Happy Memorial Day

Memorial Day weekend is often thought of as the unofficial beginning to the summer.  Pools open, BBQs turn on, and many people enjoy a three day weekend.

Remember that while you are enjoying a BBQ by the pool, men and women in our military are risking their lives to protect your freedoms.  Memorial Day began after the Civil War as a way to remember those members of the armed services that died protecting our country. 

Thank you to all the men and women who volunteer for the armed forces and protect our country.

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I would also like to take this day to remind you all of one of those rights that men and women have died to protect is your right to be heard.  One of the easiest ways to be heard is to vote.  Are you registered to vote? I don't care who you are interested in voting for, but I want to make sure that all of my readers are registered to vote. The democratic process is one of the greatest things about being an American. We have the right to choose who runs out government.

Before an election - Make sure you are registered to vote. USA.gov has everything you need to find the correct registration for your state. Also make sure you know where your polling place is located. Depending on your area, it could be a school, library, or other local location.

Day of the election - Bring your photo ID with you to the polling place. If you recently moved, it's also helpful to bring your voter registration card just in case their paperwork wasn't updated on time. If you are not allowed to vote because you forgot something or you weren't listed, request a provisional ballot. They will record your ballot in a sealed envelope and it will be counted once they can verify your voter eligibility.

After the election - Be proud that you live in a nation that allows you to voice your opinion.