Enjoy this editorial from Bill Marshak, originally published in the 03/26/2013 issue of Tri-City Voice. As you can tell from Panashe Matemba-Mutasa’s article this week, “Happymont,” Fremont is still pretty great in 2024! The ring sculpture mentioned in paragraph five, “Unity” by Bruce Beasley, is visible from the Tri-City Voice office today. – Editorial Staff
There are cities and communities that always seem to receive extra accolades even amidst the usual problems of any gathering of people. In some cases, historical events or geography play a major role while in others, these attributes have been augmented by the efforts of citizens and leaders, catapulting them to wide recognition. What is it that causes others to gaze with admiration at these locations?
While hard to define or copy, a common theme does seem to emerge: attention to form and function. The practical aspect of cities is a function of tangible assets that allow a majority of citizens to feel safe and comfortable in their habitat. Streets are functional, public safety is generally assured and other infrastructure concerns are met. Confidence in the continuation of this state is high. The second part of the equation is a bit less concrete, but fills a higher level of what Abraham Maslow called a “hierarchy of needs.” These include the less concrete aspects of “esteem” and “self-actualization.”
Components of esteem involve the confidence that you and those around you have value and are worthy of respect, both by self and others. Just look through issues of Tri-City Voice, and it is hard to doubt that our communities have plenty to be proud of and citizens who achieve great things. It is the highest level of Maslov’s pyramid of needs that is elusive, for this involves problem-solving, creativity and spontaneity; in other words… risk.
The Bay Area accepts risky endeavors as its birthright, admiring the bawdy, audacious beginnings of San Francisco, Oakland’s East Bay manufacturing muscle and South Bay’s Silicon Valley. These locations along with others around the Bay Area epitomize the value of bold beginnings. Our section of the Bay now has the opportunity to not only join, but eclipse our well-known neighbors. It is in the Greater Tri-City area that innovation has room to grow and develop as a natural nexus of energy. Not only can this area shine and become “great,” but it has the obligation to its citizens to do so.
Many elements of greatness are already in place but we need to concentrate on some of the more creative aspects that shape perception. For instance, our leaders should consider expanding our innovative footprint with convention facilities, well publicized and funded museums, art galleries, singular shopping, fine art venues and fine dining. Are these simply empty words? I don’t think so, but they take a commitment and local energy to make them happen. As the economy improves and resources become available, the challenge will be to use these to become great cities and a great community of cities. Fremont is about to make a bold statement with a sculpture at a major intersection of the city. Whether the art is acceptable to all or not, it has the “ring” of adventure and innovation and a step in the right direction.
Our path to greatness begins with a critical look at what we have and what is necessary to fulfill Maslow’s hierarchy. Some of our cities have taken small steps in this direction, but still fall short when asked to consider the risk of greatness. A consortium of neighboring cities can be the catalyst for action. Our Mayors and Councilmembers, working as a team, can make it happen if they really believe in the unrealized potential of our area. We can be GREAT if we dare!
