Save Newport Real News in Newport Beach
As many of you know, when I started this SaveNewport project, I was not expecting it to be successful. I was mad– angry, even– at the things our local government was doing. From seizing private property to increasing taxes, from destroying our beloved beachside fire rings to suppressing tourism which feeds our local businesses– I just didn’t know what to do.
Of course, I had been taught in school that I could have open access to our government, but even if that was true– what difference would it make? Would I really think that my single voice would change the minds of those who had instituted these awful policies to begin with? I have a software development company, and I knew at least I could try to raise awareness to my own friends, so I started a Facebook page called “SaveNewport”. I frankly didn’t think anyone would be all that interested in our local government, but I decided that I’d give-it-my-all anyway and if nothing happened in 2-3 months, I could at least honestly say that I tried.
A few weeks into it, I saw people liking and commenting who I didn’t know. Then we broke 50 likes, and then 100. Within a month or two we had 200 people. People cared– I could not have been happier.
Over the next few years, we launched the SaveNewport.com website, grew to thousands and thousands of regular subscribers, became a go-to resource for news and information in Newport Beach– all while shining particular light on our growing taxation, property rights violations, and excessive spending. People still cared.
As our fire rings were attacked, our bars and restaurants were faced with forced closures, our jet pack operators were nearly kicked out of Newport and our beloved Dog Beach was nearly eliminated, people fought back. And each time, we won.
It was a little shocking to me that a resource like this didn’t already exist, given the clear response it has received so far. But I guess nothing exists until someone invents it.
Thank you all for your participation with our local government. Our voices united are heard loudly and clearly, and we have already seen the change that we promote. Let’s keep it up! 🙂
