In a few days, another election will be upon us. Will Hicksville once more raise its apathetic head and fail to show up at the polls?

Back in June, when you were asked to vote on the school bond, only three percent of all registered voters from the community came out to cast their vote. Recent polls have shown that two-thirds of the country is against us going to war with Iraq. Now, I personally don't care whether you side with or against our president on this issue, but before you make a decision, look at both sides.

If you lean to the left, read the right. If you're of the right winged persuasion then you know the arguments of those other than the Rush Limbaughs of the world. More or less, educate yourself before you vote, but by all means, get out there and vote and voice your opinion where it counts - at the polls and not just amidst friends.

Just as serious as getting your vote out is getting your children to see that their parents are taking a part in our great democracy. Take them with you to the polling place. Talk with them about the issues. You'd be surprised how much a young mind can understand if we just take the time to listen to them instead of just barking our orders day in and day out. Let them know that by voting they are fulfilling a part of their civic duty to service.

Bob Boxer