Reader Stories: Have You Spoken Out?

Other than voting, the best opportunity most Americans have to interact directly with their government is at the local level, by expressing their opinions in public meetings of city councils, planning and zoning boards, parks commissions, school boards and any number of other bodies. Fortunately, this is also where a single citizen or small group of citizens can have the most impact on the government decision making process. Have you spoken out at a public meeting? If so, share your experience with our readers.