That may sound hokey and may best be read while listening to a Sousa march or two, but it's also true. There is little to be happy about with our voting public. West Barnstable was the standout at 30 percent, but even that can't be considered great. It remains ironic that the greatest turnout for any election is in presidential years. While still important and a tangible part of the civic experience, on a percentage basis, a single votethen has the least effect on the outcome.
Local elections are where the action is.
One of our hopes of the the newly elected charter commisison is that the process of review will prompt 18 solid months of discussion and participation about what we want our town to be. What truly matters Every now and again, there is a tragedy that makes a good part of a community pause and take stock in the fortunes of their individual lives. It's only against such a dark background that we seem to have the ability to truly recognize what we have and what truly matters. It's a reminder of our own mortality and that of the people we love. So call a friend, kiss your significant other, hug your children and take none of the time you spend with them for granted.