Avatar Posted on 9/23/2008 by
Culture
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Doing our part to get the vote out, Popzara Press is pleased to introduce a handy guide to this year's major presidential candidates.

Written by Toby Ebel ()

Voting = Epic Win!

There are only so many opportunities that any one person has to impose their will on something as large and abstract as the whole of society. For some, society is too abstract, too big to fathom, and they let opportunities slip away due to feelings of inadequacy or a sense of hopelessness. To which opportunities am I referring? I am talking about voting, of course. This single institution can guide a nation, lead its people, even influence the entire world by virtue of our country's status. And yet, many of us, at least half every election, choose to stay home on election day, or find some excuse not to perform their civic duty. For those that choose to face the lines, or deal with the sometimes difficult ballots, or with the pesky reporters and their "exit polls", the reward is not immediately realized. Except for that inner awareness, that sense of duty fulfilled, and knowledge that you at least had your say. In a world where so many do not have a chance to determine their own fate, let alone elect their leaders, Americans must learn to value this amazing opportunity.

On a personal note, I am working for a campaign to get a school bond passed so we can build new facilities, incorporate better technology, and create cutting-edge learning environments for our school district. Unbelievably, these small, local elections and issues are even more sparsely attended than the presidential elections every four years. Now tell me, how does this make sense? The one time someone has to directly impact their own community, their future, their own pocketbook, and they simply refuse to show up. I have actually been told that getting this bond passed will be tougher this year because it is on the same day as a presidential election, because many "no" votes would stay home otherwise. Huh? More people are concerned about the presidential election than one that impacts their own taxes and children directly? Well, it is true, oddly enough.

If you'll notice just below are two familiar looking faces, and clicking on either one will transport you to a personal endorsement of each candidate from a Popzara staff member who supports them.  I am sure that where you live, there are local candidates and other issues on your ballot this year. Do yourself and your community and your country a favor...get out there and cast your vote. You'll get that sense of accomplishment, for sure, but you might also just change the world a tiny little bit. Now wouldn't that be nice?


                   



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