I know a lot of people in the music industry that would kill to have concert turnout the size of the crowd that invaded Voice Of America park in West Chester for the "Voice Of America Freedom Rally on Saturday.

The Butler County Sheriff estimated that 18-thousand people were on hand to hear speakers speak their minds on issues ranging from the military actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, to bailouts, the national debt and, of course, health care reform. Nearby the park, a crowd of 20 presented their counter-views.

I defy anyone to call this rally "not legitimate". No, these are people who have what they feel are legitimate differences with those in power in Washington. (Not just President Obama, but with Nancy Pelosi (who was invited, but did not attend), Harry Reid, and sometimes even with both aisles of Congress). People are getting fed up with the status quo...and their protests are finally getting the attention of those in D.C.

The Town Hall Forum that was held gave area citizens an opportunity to question area legislators about the issues. It was a lively discussion, and speakers such as Dayton Congressman Mike Turner, House Minority Leader John Boehner, Representative Jean Schmidt and GOP gubernatorial candidate John Kasich were all well received. At the same time, though it's fair to note that not every answer each gave to questions resonated 100% approval from the crowd. Some of the answers given brought some jeers and shouts from the crowd.

This tells me at least those in attendance were paying attention to what was said. Good. We need more of this.

If I recall my nomenclature correctly, this is called "political community activism".

Activists, you see, can come from both sides of the political fence. And, what's good for the goose, can be good for the gander, too.