Generations in America
Please enjoy this video – in which I interview an outstanding young man from Mississippi, State Representative, Jeramey Anderson, who was elected to office while still only a junior in college
In America, we are blessed to honor the ‘Greatest Generation’ – the generation that led us to victory in World War II, but also to recognize that there is another generation – coming of age today that is also on its way to Greatness. So, this week we are focusing on both of these terrific generations – the one that has secured our present place and the one that is now taking its place on ‘center stage’ – and is about to make some amazingly positive contributions to our progress and future as a nation.
Passing the Torch to the Next Generation
As we head into the Veterans Day weekend full of amazing events to honor the services and sacrifices of our soldiers , I cannot help but go more deeply into the ‘what if’s’ where we might find ourselves today, if it weren’t for those selfless and courageous veterans who fought valiantly to protect our freedom and preserve our liberties.
With victory achieved, the nation emerged from World War II, and entered into a glorious time of growth, expansion and opportunity. General Eisenhower was elected President. The national interstate highway system came of age, the idea of everyone owning a home, car, and a yard was in full swing. Manufacturing and entrepreneurship was in full force and the nation was busting at its seams. In the years to follow, we put a man on the moon thanks to engineers, scientists and specialists, many of whom wore our nation’s uniform.
Today, I look at current generational leaders and generations ahead and see so much potential. Public service, inventors, protectors of liberty, educators, and more. The possibilities of prosperity are at the tips of our fingers and it makes me excited to be an American.
I would be remised if I didn’t recognize my own kids and how they are impacting our society. You all have heard me talk about Gates who is proudly serving in the New Hampshire legislature. But just in case you didn’t know, Karen and I have a total of 7 kids, which makes for cramped quarters during the holiday season. Our daughter Morgan is creating innovative ways for alternative medicine and helping people live a healthier life. Ian, he is so innovative on branding, business building and investment, everyday our company is growing because of him. Ryan is currently in Europe working on a yearlong documentary on combating violence through community strength. Justin and Erin who year after year work tirelessly on so many charitable causes from cancer research to veterans support and sustainability are making huge strides in changing lives. And Lincoln, our oldest who is defending freedom over the skies of the Pacific in his F-18 Super Hornet.
A little encouragement from us and some innovation by one’s self can create the next great thing. Its inspiring to live in the world we live and to see the future is just a bit better every day.
Generations Making Magic Together in Small Towns
Small towns across America have been built by the hard work and dedication of our older generations. Newport, for example, was built up to become a center for precision manufacturing over the span of several generations. The Richards, Dexter & Sons Woolen Mill, more commonly known as the Old Ruger Mill Building, made Newport a thriving metropolis for years by employing hundreds in the wool making process. Our older generations now share stories of their parents going to and from work at the Mill, how Main Street was always packed with shoppers purchasing new clothes and supplies, and how sheep filled any open space to provide the wool for manufacturing. Newport was different then, but the amazing thing is how these older generations that once witnessed the greatness of Newport continually work to restore its brilliance.
My dear friend, Roy Malool, owner of RoyMal in Newport has devoted most of his adult life to bringing prosperity, opportunity, and hope back to Newport. Through his charitable fund, the Malool Family Foundation, he provides countless hours and donations to the community including helping to fund a new community center, rallying excitement for numerous groups and events, and establishing various scholarships to name a few. His dedication to the town coupled with his passion for teaching our younger residents is infectious. At our monthly Newport Sunshine Initiative meetings, he’s always guaranteed to share a memory that somehow is tied to what we are trying to accomplish now. You see, the economic development and revitalization we are carrying out in the Sunshine Town now, is the result of years of blood, sweat, and tears from our older residents. They have opened the door to a new future for Newport, teaching us what matters most along the way: the history, the life, the passion that built our town. With the experience of the great generations that have come before and the hope and vitality of our younger partners, the sky is the limit.
The Truly Greatest Generation
You can't write a Sunshine Report about Greatest Generation(s) without giving a special shout-out to THE Greatest Generation! Without the Greatest Generation, America as we know it would not exist. Born between 1900-1920, the Greatest Generation is known for its strength, grit, determination, and character. They were the backbone of American society for decades, having endured the Great Depression and both World Wars. Without their involvement in the World Wars, who knows what would have happened to humanity.
Today, thanks to them, we live in a free and prosperous society that can pursue its dreams and make almost anything a reality. Nevertheless, we must also pay tribute to the military men and women today who are continuing to protect these freedoms. This is why Karen and I are so grateful to be a part of Children of Fallen Patriots. To return the favor and ensure that their children receive the same opportunity to a great education and the chance to fulfill their full potential had their parent not made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. The success stories that have come out of Children of Fallen Patriots are remarkable. And as such, I encourage you to click on the site below. https://www.fallenpatriots.org/blog
Tomorrow’s Leaders Now
As some of you may recall, Karen and I attended the Millennial Action Project this summer in Nashville where we had the chance to sit-down with dozens of attendees and hear how they are investing in making their communities by getting involved in public policy and elected office. During our days together at the conference, we were blown away by their courage, their passion, and most important, their ability to come together to make positive change.
It reminded me of the days when I served in the Legislature while still a student in college and the enthusiasm that young people can bring to the task of making a difference. Today I proudly support the efforts our millennial legislators are making in New Hampshire and across the country. Over the coming months as we get ready for fall elections, a group of us will be meeting with potential candidates. Millennials who are committed to positivity, our freedoms and entrepreneurial growth as well as strong families and vibrant communities. These are the core values that will empower the next generation to create a bright and successful America for the balance of the 21st century.
We will be doing all we can to motivate, encourage and support the next generation of America’s leaders.
Profile of the Week: Sarah Stewart
Sarah Stewart is a woman on the move with a “can-do” attitude. Bringing a youthful energy and vitality to her role as Commissioner of the NH Department of Cultural and Natural Resources. As a small business owner, Sarah has led numerous initiatives for a variety of clients helping them navigate the legislative process as well as offering guidance on how to improve their organization's image. She has done all this while also being a dedicated wife and mother.
Sarah first came to national prominence by helping John McCain win an upset victory over George W. Bush in the 2000 NH Republican Presidential Primary and then again leading McCain’s effort in his come from behind win in 2008, as he went on from New Hampshire to the Republican nomination.
Sarah has a deep passion for the arts and our state’s natural beauty. Sarah’s ever optimistic and upbeat outlook coupled with her leadership abilities has made her one of our state’s leading government executives. And, given her positive trajectory, I am sure the best is yet to come.
Quotes: The Next Generation
Each generation imagines itself to be more intelligent than the one that went before it, and wiser than the one that comes after it.
George Orwell
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
Ronald Reagan
The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next.
Abraham Lincoln
Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total; of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.
Robert Kennedy
If I were given the opportunity to present a gift to the next generation, it would be the ability for each individual to learn to laugh at himself.
Charles M. Schulz