We Need Net Neutrality

President Obama recently addressed the need for net neutrality in this country. His words are heartening, but real efforts need to be taken to make sure net neutrality becomes a reality, as opposed to an idea that we continue to discuss around the dinner table, wishing that is existed.

Here is a link to President Obama's plans on Net Neutrality:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/net-neutrality

Net neutrality is an issue that divides many different interests groups. Put simply, net neutrality is the idea that both governments and Internet Service Providers, often referred to as ISPs, should treat all data on the internet equally. This means that they cannot discriminate based on user, platform, content, site, or mode of access. Without net neutrality, ISPs can filter out information or slow down internet access for some, while allowing others to pay a premium for a fast lane of internet access.

While some may argue that we should let the free market run its course, this is at least one area where the government should be involved in. Setting clear and fair rules on how ISPs can deliver internet content is important in creating a open internet without unnecessary restrictions, and makes sure that internet access is not adulterated simply because a user or company cannot pay the steep price for fast access.

What you can do about it
Please email, call, or write to your congressperson about this issue. Some members of congress take input from their constituents very seriously, especially when so many of them write about one issue. Each email can make a difference. Be sure to mention what action you would like to see taken. This could help congressmen focus their efforts on getting legislation passed, as opposed to just discussing it. Debate and discussion can happen, but eventually, something tangible needs to come out of it.

Also, keep track of who supports and who opposes net neutrality. With the President urging this issue to be taken up, this could very well become a talking point during the next election cycle. Support those in favor of net neutrality in the next election, and then we could see some action on this important front.

Development vs Preservation: Open Space

Open space and park space are critical parts of any community. Along with clear environmental benefits, open space provides a community with a outlet to exercise, participate in other recreational activities, or simply enjoy the outdoors.

Setting aside open space and park space is a critical aspect of every society. I'm an advocate of balance in development, and part of that is making sure there is ample open space. Many proponents of open space bring up the health benefits to open space, and how places with open space have fewer problems with childhood obesity.

A lot of the value of open space is intangible, and is therefore hard to make people understand why it is important. People value public space, but it is difficult to put it in context of dollars and cents that city administrators and planners understand when creating their vision for the future of their communities. However, a well balanced society does not just take care of its citizens basic or economic needs, like providing adequate housing or jobs for people to earn a living. A well balanced society also helps fulfill psychological, physiological, and cognitive needs, all which open space is able to provide. People exercise, play, and enjoy open space and parks. People enjoy spending time in nature, and are happier because of it. These intangible benefits are perhaps the most significant positive impact that open space has on our society, and a major reason why it's still worth investing in.

Make sure to vote today

Voting is your chance to have a say in how our government functions. While it often seems that each individual vote does not really matter, it is still important to participate in elections. If you vote, you have some say, while if you don't you have no say. If you don't vote, you don't matter. A lot of elections can be close, especially local or county elections, and it's important that everyone has a chance to voice their opinion. The easiest way to change the government is to elect a new one. Please, go out and vote and encourage others to do the same. Collectively, we can make a difference.