Turnout never so important

Next Tuesday, November 6, is one of the most important days in the recent history of Washington, Tignall, Rayle, and Wilkes County. It's Election Day and mayors and councilmen will be elected for all three municipalities. The question of Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax renewal will also be decided. All election days are significantin the history of this country. But this election day is of special significance,especially to the city of Washington.

There are exactly two candidates for each officebeing sought. Some of the choices are clear cut while others are less so. There are choices to be made concerning levels of education, means of livelihood, political experience, lifestyles, personal agendas, character, and yes, even race.

There are still those in this county who will vote for a candidate simply because he is white, or simply because he is black. How sad it is that we are not beyond that. How sad it is that there are those who force those patterns in others by their own prejudice, anger, and hatred. How sad it is that some of those can fool enough people, and manipulate enough votes, to actually get elected.

So we must all remember that it is only a very small minority that acts to perpetuate those archaic behaviors. The rest of us want the best for everyone. It is only those few who want the division. The rest of us are happy working, living, sharing, and learning together in the community we love.

The rest of us must therefore be careful not to be swayed by unproductive, negative attitudes. We must become intolerant of the manipulation and intimidation. We must see through their carefully choreographed antics.

Even in a campaign where there is no racial choice, we must remember to vote for the candidate who truly wants to serve, who exhibits a cheerful positive attitude, and who wants the entire community to benefit from spirit of working together.

The right candidates will get elected if a high percentage of voters actually cast their ballots. A high turnout will insure that everyone's real preference is affirmed. And remember, vote how you truly want - you don't have to tell anyone before or after.

Tuesday is the day Washington voters will decide the character of the city's next council. It can take turn for the worse, or it can take a step toward positive attitudes and more progressive thinking.

If all of Washington gets out and votes, this election could turn out to be one of the best ever.

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