Our View: Residents benefiting from nonprofits shouldnt require political affiliation

When Wendy Davis visited Odessa last month, the Democratic Partys candidate for governor made a campaign stop at a local crisis center for women.

She went on the attack, railing against her opponent. She received high praise from the centers director, forcing our newspaper to ask why the center would get involved with a gubernatorial candidate right in the middle of the race. At the time, we said we hope Midlands nonpartisan nonprofits dont put their respective facilities front and center in a political race like this, because the residents seeking their services dont do so as Democrats or Republicans.

The Odessa Hispanic Chamber of Commerces annual banquet and installation of officers was Wednesday. Attorney General Greg Abbott, the Republican running for governor, was the guest speaker.

According to our reporter at the event, Abbotts appearance did provide a contrast with Davis event. Abbott didnt bring up his opponent during his 17-minute speech that was filled with talking points weve heard before, and the Hispanic Chamber didnt offer a virtual endorsement of the GOP candidate.

Still, Abbotts appearance at the event fits into the gray area we hope Midlands nonpartisan organizations dont follow. During campaign season, if a high-profile candidate appears at your banquet or function, please make sure the candidate from the other major party has had an opportunity to speak.

We would prefer to see organizations not being seen as siding with one candidate or one party.

Laurel

For the family of Steve and Mai Johnson. The Samaritan Counseling Center of West Texas is honoring Steve, Mai, Kate and Ben as its pick for Midlands family of the year. We commend the group on its choice -- a family that is an example of overcoming adversity. Mai suffered a brain injury 3 1/2 years ago, and just as she works through rehab, the family sees its place as being able to not only survive but thrive. And they see their role as helping others who go through a similar situation.

Arrow

- For the editor. On Tuesday, we had a story about the renewal of the contract to manage the Horseshoe, and the headline didnt really portray what the article was about. While county commissioners are deciding on the path going forward as it pertains to the managers contract, there is no reason to believe that the current manager will be replaced. The headline indicated that was a possibility.

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Our View: Residents benefiting from nonprofits shouldnt require political affiliation