problems. And if that means, serving only one term as governor &045; so be it.&uot;

With that simple phrase, a phrase betting a political career, Gov. Bob Riley sets forth on a mission that could determine his legacy as governor and potentially the future legacy of Alabama.

In the period of 90 days, roughly three months, Riley must explain to the voters of Alabama why they should vote for a reform and tax package which would raise certain taxes.

He must explain and convince the voters of the effort he and his administration have put forth to cut every possible expense, trim every inch of fat they possibly could during the first few months of their administration.

Even Riley himself has admitted there is still room to go in the cost-cutting department, but time has run out &045; a solution must be found now. The time is now.

It took 18 months for Riley to prove himself to Alabama voters during his run for governor.

He must now hope in three months he can get the votes to fix Alabama’s problems and assure a future for all Alabama’s children.

The first part to Riley’s campaign began Monday night with a televised speech to the people of Alabama.

Never before has a governor opened a special session with a speech from the governor’s office, rather than addressing the full Legislature.

Then again, never before has Alabama faced the peril it is facing today.

The setting for the speech alone should prove to Alabamians the importance placed on their upcoming vote &045; a vote set for early September.

Riley must prove that bandage fixes are no longer an option if Alabama is to move from the nation’s cellar &045; only &uot;once-and-for-all&uot; fixes are needed and demanded.

Alabama voters &045; now more than ever &045; hold the future of their state in their hands. Never before in recent history has a vote seemed so important and demanded such attention.

For the next three months, Alabamians should decide for themselves if they are willing to reform the way Alabama does business, generate new revenue and move forward or if the current system of bankrupting Alabama’s future will continue.

It is a tough choice.

We hope Gov. Riley and his staff are aware of the task they have undertaken.

For Alabama’s future, let’s hope so