You have probably heard the adage, all politics is local. It suggests that most of us are motivated politically by what is going on in our lives, in our actual neighborhoods and communalities. The reality is that not only does local government have the most influence in your life, but also provides the opportunity for you to make the biggest difference. In her book, Make a Difference: Navigating the Maze of Local Government, Cynthia Northrup White offers a veritable guidebook for understanding the way local government operates and how you can make the biggest impact. This book is not only for the neighborhood citizen who wants to change the way the city picks up trash or the way tax rates are established, but also for the college student preparing for a life in the political arena. If citizens are knowledgeable about how government works and how different levels of government interact they will be more successful in finding solutions to issues important to them. Many people desire to make a difference in their community, but they have no idea where to begin or how to proceed. It might begin with casting your vote, but that is certainly not all that can be done. In her book, Making a Difference, Carolyn Northrop White peals away the layers of government so we can see how they function and work together. You will be amazed at how much you can do for your neighborhood and community by simply understanding how to be involved. I believe those who read her book will not only gain new insight on how local governments work, they will also be inspired. I highly recommend her both as an author and as a speaker. Sheri Groves, Chief Administrator for Ron Marchant, Denton County Commissioner I believe people who read this book will gain insight and inspiration on how they can make a difference in their communities through local government and community participation. Bobbie Mitchell - Denton County Commissioner I hope many will read Making a Difference and learn basic mechanics of local government that will equip them with information, and glean from her insights into how they can participate more effectively so that our rights and privileges may continue, and pass them on to our children and grandchildren Eric Kaszynski Community Activist Cynthia has been active in many areas of the community serving two terms on the Lewisville, Texas, City Council. She also served as a Denton County Commissioner for two terms. Cynthia's passion for educating people on how local government works and why it is important to be involved has remained a consistent theme in all her undertakings. Her hobbies include health and fitness, and music. Actively training clients today, Cynthia has been a lifetime advocate of health and fitness, becoming a Group Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer. A self-taught keyboard player, her musical outlets include singing and songwriting. She has produced five CD's of mostly original tunes, plays in a band, and sings and plays keyboard on the worship team in her home church.
