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On Tuesday, the leader of the world’s largest democracy will be decided for the next four years — a decision not to be taken lightly. Already, nearly 40 percent of registered voters in Lowndes County have cast their ballots, and Election Day will most likely see at least another 20 percent or more at the polls.
But why vote? Why do Americans spend so much time and energy on elections? Generally speaking, it’s because we can.
The mere fact that citizens can vote, regardless of race, gender, or religious preference, sets America apart from many nations. Some countries have mandatory voting, with penalties for not casting a ballot. Others color code the ballots and hold the elections in public, ensuring that the electorate is intimidated into voting a certain way. There are countries where women cannot vote, or where those with a religious preference different from the ruling powers are denied that right. The citizens of countries denied the right to elect their leadership envy America, and envy the freedoms Americans enjoy.
Unfortunately, one of those freedoms is also the freedom to not vote, even by those who are registered to do so. Many local elections have been decided by a very slim margin of just a few votes, so those thinking their vote doesn’t matter are wrong in that assumption.
We live in a country where every vote counts; where the basic right to vote has been protected by those who fight to protect our freedoms and liberty.
Don’t waste that precious right. Vote on Tuesday if you haven’t already and exercise a precious freedom that is unknown to much of the world.
What We Think
Why vote?
- What We Think
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New era at the Boys and Girls Club
Next week on June 1, it will be the official end of an era at the Boys and Girls Club of Valdosta when Robert Soper hands over responsibility for the organization to the new Chief Professional Officer Jim Wink.
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Thank you, EMS
We always pull over for them, but we rarely seem to thank them.
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Tornado: An aftermath of help
Seeing the massive path of destruction left in the wake of tornadoes in Oklahoma Monday was a sobering reminder of the power of spring storms.
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Thoughts on graduation
Graduation ceremonies reflect how life marches on. For the students receiving their diplomas and degrees, graduation is a culmination of the majority of their lives’ work.
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Thumbs up, thumbs down
THUMBS UP: To Dr. John Gaston, retiring dean of Valdosta State University’s College of the Arts. For the past 10-plus years, Gaston has worked to build a more interconnected program with various artistic and communications departments working together. Given that you are likely to see one College of the Arts department collaborating with another during events is proof of Gaston’s success.
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On the go this weekend
Take a breath.
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Sharing the roads with motorcycles
With the recent pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, the number of motorcycles on area roads has increased.
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Thank your local law enforcement today
Today, May 15, was designated Peace Officers Memorial Day back in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy was in office.
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Visit musical roots this weekend
Beginning Saturday, May 18, Nashville, Ga., will be hosting a special Smithsonian exhibit, “New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music.” The exhibit will continue through the end of June and Nashville has done a tremendous job in promoting and planning for the exhibit.
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Happy Mother’s Day!
A few years ago, a television commercial asked, Who first believed in you? Many folks may have instinctively answered by simply saying, Mom.
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New era at the Boys and Girls Club
