June 10, 2002

Dear Sir,

You will be aware of the newly reconstructed Flatts Wharf that was officially opened by Premier Jennifer Smith this past Thursday, June 6, 2002.

On February 20 of this year I wrote a letter to Minister of Works and Engineering Alex Scott and copied it to The Royal Gazette. I thanked him and those involved, and wanted to express, on behalf of the Flatts Development Committee, our appreciation and congratulations for the excellent improvements to the Public Dock in Flatts Village.

You can imagine how horrified I was to view the official opening on television. I felt a little warmth of accomplishment when Mike Sharpe of ZBM added a footnote to the coverage: "but the man widely credited for the idea and who got the ball rolling three years ago, Toppy Cowen, was not at today's ceremony nor was he acknowledged."

I can't express enough disappointment on behalf of the `dream builders' of the Flatts Development Committee and the village businesses that were not extended an invitation to be part of the official opening.

The slighted volunteers who devoted hours of their free time to have a better public boating facility, also worked tirelessly for over three years, to transform a neglected historic village into a place for visitors and residents to enjoy. They must also feel a sense of sadness.

So what is missing in those selfish politicians who love to stroke each other's ego as they use public funds to proclaim what a wonderful job they have done? Quite simply some of those that sit in Parliament, and are entrusted to make Bermuda a better place, have forgotten the key ingredients of good government. As the Bible says, no one follows an uncertain trumpet.

Leadership is about having a clear vision, articulating it well, and getting everyone enthusiastic about sharing it and above all, expressing gratitude to those who helped to achieve the goals. Interestingly Mark Twain once remarked that he could live for two months on one good compliment. How true!

We can't forget the Flatts' volunteers who attended numerous meetings over the years, obtained historical data about the village, conducted traffic surveys, participated in public meetings, caused improvements to buildings, and held three village festivals! The reams of historical files that presently clutter our closet are a testimony to their vision and passion for this wonderful village.

Historians will one day read about an insensitive government that ignored a group of concerned citizens who tried to make a difference.

W. A. (Toppy) Cowen

Former chairman

Flatts Development Committee