Words of Wisdom from SharLeigh
DON’T WASTE YOUR
RIGHT TO VOTE
The right to vote is an honor, duty and privilege for all adult American citizens! Yet the other night I was startled to see a televised public service announcement by a United States Senator reminding American citizens of their right and duty to vote. It took me back for a moment because it was shocking to think how our forefathers had fought (and many given their lives) for that important freedom! Just how many of our fellow citizens have given their lives for our rights? The United States Department of Veterans Affairs has fact sheets on all of the wars that were fought by America from the Revolutionary War through September 2007 (the website is www1.va.gov/opa/fact/amwars.asp). In total, over 1.1 million Americans have lost their lives so we could continue to vote. But do you realize how many people do not even bother to vote and/or make excuses why they cannot get to the polls? Truth is, voting is easier than ever. In California (I am not sure about other states) you can now apply for a vote-by-mail ballot. If you are not going to be in your voting area on Election Day or if your polling location/time is not convenient, you may apply for this type of ballot. There are two ways of applying: 1) Go to the Secretary of State website at www.sos.ca.gov and fill out a form online and then submit it; or 2) Apply in writing to your county election official. For that information, just check the front of your White Pages telephone directory in the government listing under county offices. Once you have received your ballot, just follow the instructions provided. When mailing your envelope, remember to sign the back of it. Your signature will be checked against your voter registration card. This is for your protection. If you happen to be in town on Election Day, you can drop off your ballot at your polling station or, if you have not filled out the ballot, give it to the poll person and then vote on a regular ballot. Remember – YOUR vote counts! Many people have given their lives for YOUR voice in our government. Don’t waste that sacrifice!