With a statewide election only 20 days away, one wonders how it will be affected by the Presidential election debacle of 2000.

Optimists say it will improve voter participation because it motivated people and made them realize the value of their one vote.

Those same people say that the tragedy of September 11th and the arousal of patriotism it stirred among us will further enhance voter turnout.

Pessimists say that the Presidential debacle only furthered cynicism, increased apathy and provoked people to realize that their one vote doesn’t count.

Those same people say citizens are fed up with corruption in government as a whole and have turned their backs on any involvement whatsoever.

But realists say that both sides could be true, only time will tell.

Those same people say if apathy continues, our country and our government will never improve, nor will our quality of life.

Those same people say the gift of freedom to be exercised through voting is a kin to a talent given by God, &uot;If you don’t use it, you could lose it.&uot;

Granted, our government is not perfect, it’s too big and at times too meddlesome, but at least we have one.

And with all its imperfections, it’s still the greatest one on earth and if you choose to, you can still be a part of it.

That’s what election day is all about.

That’s what being an American is all about.

Don’t let the lives of men and women who died to give us this sacred right be in vain.

Vote!

Many people bypass the Primary elections and vote only in the general elections in November.

The primary is more important in that the results of it give us the choices for which to vote in November.

We must get the best people on the November ballot, then work hard to get them elected.

The primary elections are only 20 days away and your vote does count and is greatly needed.

For any questions regarding voter registration, please call the Shelby County Voter Registrar Office at 669-3919