Throwing Her Hat In The Ring

Throwing your “hat in the ring” is an early 19^th century boxing term. An 1810 article reported that “a young fellow threw his hat into the ring and followed, when the lame umpire called out ‘a challenge.’ …He then walked round the ring till a second hat was thrown in, and the umpire called out, “the challenge is answered.”

Given the rough and tumble world of political service, it may be appropriate to use a boxing term to describe Barbara Traylor Smith’s July 19th announcement that today she filed papers noting her interest in serving out the distinguished Harry Butler’s remaining term on the Grand Junction City Council.

Having served the community through the Grand Junction Rotary club, and more recently as Chairman of the Strive Foundation board, Barbara’s commitment to the local community is already well established. This latest challenge allows her to focus more time studying the issues confronting Grand Junction and learning more about how the community wants the City to serve its citizens in the future.

Here at May-Investments, we understand that it is a big commitment and we are enthusiastic in our encouragement about her decision. At work, as in retirement, “it’s not about the money. It’s about your life!” We want Barbara to feel free to contribute what she can to the city where we all live. Although it would be nice to coast and let others do all the work, that’s not the way it works in real life. After considering her family, faith, and business commitments, Barbara believes that she can make a positive contribution while still meeting her primary responsibilities. At May-Investments, we want everyone to reach their God given potential and are excited for Barbara as she steps up to this challenge.

We wish her the best. And, by all means, feel free to give her a call about potholes needing attention in the event that she is selected by the City Council to step into the ring.

Douglas B. May is President of May-Investments, LLC and author of Investment Heresies.