We are called to serve the needs of others and that includes public service. Every person is affected by the laws, policies, and procedures that are put in place by our elected representatives. People of noble character are needed more than ever in places where ideas are being debated and decisions made. Voice to truth and righteousness must be restored in our land so that people can live free.
Christine Schwartz was approached by parents concerned about what was happening in their local schools, even though she didn’t have school age children yet. This was the same district that she attended for her entire school years, so it was close to her heart. She attended some meetings and continued for a few years before she felt called to run for the school board and she won. There were 2 seats open and 7 people vying for those seats. What set her apart was that she was representing the parents and concerned community members. She chose to be the voice. She was brought up for a recall within the first 6 months as a board member, receiving a significantly greater number of votes to stay on than what she got when first elected. She served on the curriculum and personnel committees, where she was involved in very critical decisions on what was being taught to the students and who was doing the teaching/administrating in the district. It was four years of commitment and determination to continue to represent the people of the district that didn’t believe that they had a voice.
Years later, she got involved within her local township, also where she grew up and was now raising a family. She ran for a trustee position, but wasn’t successful. Soon after she was appointed to Deputy Clerk and was also a member of the parks commission, becoming its chair. She was able to bring forward a project that had been put on the parks “to do list” for many years. There is now a wonderful Veteran’s Memorial in the township park.
Her involvement with the US Taxpayers Party of Michigan began when she attended a meeting where Chairman Bill Mohr made the “Party by Party” presentation. She knew this was where she belonged and helped start the Allegan County Committee and soon became the secretary of the State Central Committee. Christine currently serves as the 1st Vice Chair of the USTPM, its treasurer, serves on several committees and chairs the Ottawa County Committee.
Public service is an honor and privilege. It is not to be taken lightly. It is a necessity that people of integrity run for office at all levels so that good governance can prevail. Take a step of faith and get involved. It’s worth it!