So much has changed since my last Advocate article. September 11 has changed the way we think about everything.

At the time I am writing this, the only real visible change locally we have seen is the security at our airports, sporting events and public buildings. Something that has also changed locally is an increase in crime.

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I have written about our increasing crime rate in District 10 before but, because of our borders now being watched more closely, the flow of illegal drugs has been slowed significantly. Although cutting off the flow of illegal drugs is a good thing, it has increased the cost of those drugs still on the street. The result of this has been a corresponding increase in the type of crime that affects our neighborhoods the most.

Auto break-ins, theft from garages left open, snatch and runs from the stores – all of these are on the increase. Those with drug habits and limited incomes must find a way to pay for the increase, and things left in our cars and open garages make for easy pickings.

Burglary of motor vehicle is up 12 percent in District 10 for 2001 but up over 35 percent for September alone. Don’t leave loose items in your car. You could have several hundreds of dollars worth of damage done to your vehicle to steal something worth very little. Lock everything in the trunk or take everything inside with you.

On a less threatening note, we now have no mayor. Mayor Pro Tem Mary Poss is filling in with the exit of Ron Kirk to run for United States Senate. I have expressed my thanks to now former Mayor Kirk for his service to our city during the past six and one half years. Ron brought a peace to the Dallas City Council that it was unable to find the first four years under our 14-1 configuration. It will take a strong effort from everyone on the council to help our new mayor to maintain what Ron Kirk was able to achieve.

Regardless of who wins the race, I will do everything I can to help with that transition. We will hold an election in January to fill this and any other open council seat. Please vote in this election. Our system of governing has been challenged, and I cannot think of a more appropriate way to answer the challenge than by voting.

I pray for our country, city and neighborhood every day. As we go into the Christmas season, what is important this year is so different from last year – realizing what we have is so much more important than what we want. I am blessed to have my family and friends this Christmas, unlike so many who are dealing with losses from the senseless terrorist acts. Have a blessed Christmas season, and I pray for a Happy New Year.