Take time to vote

First of all, kudos to the students in Mundelein High School's AP Government classes for their outstanding work on the forums for the Mundelein mayoral and trustee candidates on March 14 and 20. Their efforts are much appreciated, and their interest and involvement give me hope.

Second, I urge everyone who is eligible to vote on April 4 to do so. There are enough local races to fill 27 pages of the Voter Information Guide from the League of Women Voters, and while they might not be as flashy as national or state campaigns, these are the offices that directly affect us in our towns, our neighborhoods, our libraries, and our schools. Off-year elections tend to have low turnouts, but I hope that with as many issues as we face, this year will be different. If you believe that the incumbents are doing an excellent job, then vote to retain them. If you believe that newcomers can do better, then vote them in. Do not think that your vote does not count. A candidate's win or loss can turn on a literal handful of votes.

Ours is one of the precious few countries in the world that gives its citizens the right to elect their officials. Learn as much as you can about the candidates and the issues, and cast your ballot. If you do not vote, you silence yourself.

Connie Purcell

Mundelein