“The only way to be free is to exercise actively and energetically the privileges, and discharge faithfully the duties which make freedom. Persons who have the right to vote are trustees for the benefit of their country and their countrymen. They have no right to say they do not care. They must care!”

This quote is from President Calvin Coolidge in 1924. They called him “Silent Cal” for his quiet and frugal nature, but he was not shy in combating government corruption and bringing government accountability back to the people. That principle remains as vital today as it was almost 100 years ago.

Part of good government depends upon voters’ vigilance, desire for knowledge and active participation in the political process. It may be easier to ignore all of the issues and controversy, and leave it to someone else, but that doesn’t help solve the problems in a good way.

We don’t promise all of the answers or solutions, but Fountain Hills AZ Tea Party provides our community with the opportunity to get involved, listen, learn, and become “trustees for the benefit of their country and their countrymen.”

On Tuesday, March 17, Fountain Hills AZ Tea Party welcomes two guest speakers. Steve Chucri, Maricopa County supervisor, will provide an update on issues facing county government. Vicki Alger, Ph.D., will lead a discussion about the state of education in Arizona and America, including the still-timely topic of Common Core.

You are invited to join us at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17 -- FHUSD Learning Center (Palisades and Golden Eagle boulevards). Admission is free. Donations to cover expenses are gratefully accepted. All interested parties are welcome to come, bring some friends, listen, learn, and ask questions. We hope to see you there! For more info, visit www.fhteaparty.org.