In most vital organizations, there is a common bond of interdependence, mutual interest, interlocking contributions, and simple joy. - Max DePree, businessman and author of "Leadership is an Art" At one time not very long, Troy was just such a vital organization.  And in many ways, still very much is as DePree describes.  But I submit that Troy's vitality is at risk because of a corrosive dynamic that should have never come into the business of managing the city: partisan politics. Troy's City Charter -- the one our current Mayor Daniels refused to include in her oath of office -- calls for a nonpartisan city council.  I believe with all of my heart and mind that this direction from our charter is one we desperately need to understand and re-embrace so we may collectively heal this wonderful community. There is so much hyper-partisanship in our culture today, we almost can't fathom how that would even work with our city council.  In fact, I see members of our community saying this isn't even possible. But the truth is, we know exactly how that looks and feels here in Troy.  We need look no further than our own backyards to understand what working together in a nonpartisan way achieves.  Here in Troy -- with all the amazing clubs, non-profits, and school groups -- we see a nonpartisan approach furthering our community every single day.  Further, this happens with huge success and with huge benefits to us all. I'll hold up one of