Savvy politicians understand that style is every bit as important as substance.

Churchill's take-charge leadership and patriotic passion rallied the Brits when they needed it most. Obama's impassioned 'Can Do' speech ignited a disengaged generation that toppled the status quo.

Sadly, few politicians have the ability - or charisma - to pull it off.

Too bad. People need - people want - fiery rhetoric, impassioned calls to action, and unifying goals.

What they most decidedly do not want are insults to their intellect, inappropriate attempts at minimizing their concerns, or defensive condescension.

At a meeting that saw both sides of the hall exchange barbs as well as outbursts calling for support, one of the more memorable moments at the town hall meeting came late in the evening.

Sixty-five year resident Councillor Jerry Lonsbury's speech gave concerned citizens the emotional punch needed to summarize a long and somewhat tiring evening. His speech brought a welcome clarity to the state of negativity that has gripped the community of late. Empathetic and respectful, Lonsbury demonstrated the rare gift of effective communication.

Crowsnest Pass residents have witnessed a continuing downward spiral and are anxious to see a way out. Understandably, we are cynical. Like jilted brides, we're wary of new suitors, broken promises and dashed hopes.

What we saw at the meeting last week was democracy in action where citizens' concerns were matched by their passion for solutions.

Keep the spirit and continue the dialogue.