I was reading a story Wednesday night about a man who calls himself Captain Frodo who has a very unique skill. He's a contortionist who can squeeze his entire body through the head of a tennis racquet without its strings.
It's a painful looking talent, but it's one that's landed Captain Frodo a gig with the La Clique circus. His act lends proof to the statement everyone is good at something.
When I think of this statement, I think of how important it is to put people in a position where they can excel. For example, I would be a lousy spokesman for the National Rifle Association because I don't believe every man, woman and child should spend every waking moment with a loaded gun.
This is not to suggest the NRA's strategy is failing because I haven't read about somebody getting gunned down in some 12 minutes. Perhaps more people with loaded guns does mean fewer shootings.
I bring up all this talk about talent because I want to talk about the county's Health and Welfare Committee where chairman Michael Martin has come under fire. There are several residents who want to see Martin removed as chair of this committee because it has direct authority over Animal Control. Martin has made recent comments which suggest he's not in favor of trying to find homes for stray animals which end up at the county shelter.
If you think I'm going to be critical of Martin, think again. He's one of the longest serving county commissioners in Warren County with 22 years of experience and I appreciate his service. Over the years, I haven't agreed with all of his stances, but I've always found him knowledgeable on the issues. Anyone willing to put up with 22 years of headaches should be applauded for their efforts.
All that being said, I can't help but wonder if Martin's talents are being put to their best use. He no doubt cares about this community, but chair of the Health and Welfare Committee seems like an odd spot for him to serve if he doesn't have any regard for the well-being of animals.
If he doesn't think the county should devote its time to saving animals, the only alternatives are to keep them at the shelter indefinitely or kill them. My personal belief is we should do everything possible to connect these pets with loving families, not return to the days of mass euthanization.
I've learned a great many things during my tenure here at the newspaper. One is you have to pick your battles. Another is you don't generally want any of those battles to involve an animal rights group.
In the interest of community harmony and animal welfare, it seems like a person who cares about animals would be a better fit to serve as chair of the Health and Welfare Committee. 
Martin is certainly not without talent and a willingness to serve. He doesn't have to squeeze through the head of a tennis racquet, but he can be appointed to chairman of another committee. This might be a better use of his energy.
Standard editor James Clark can be reached at 473-2191.