As another election cycle quickly approaches, I have a few requests:
1) If you aren't already, register to vote. The deadline in Hamilton County is Tuesday, July 8.
2) Vote. Election day is Aug. 7. Voting is a privilege and is the formal process for you to express your opinion about who you wish your elected officials to be. In my opinion, if you don't vote, you lose your right to complain about who won the election and how they perform their official duties.
3) Vote for Greg Martin, Hamilton County School Board representative, District 3. Mr. Martin is what you would expect all of our elected officials to be. He is a well respected member of the community and genuinely cares about the students and faculty in his district. He gives his honest opinion, based on knowledge and conviction, whether you agree with him or not, and votes on the board the same way. He worked hard with parents and county employees to diffuse and understand issues at McConnell Elementary where my kids attended and he worked to get funding directed toward rebuilding Gann's Elementary. He meets regularly with parents and is seen at many school functions from PTA meetings to football games. I could continue with more examples but suffice it to say, as a citizen, parent, and small business owner, he has made a difference in our community and is worthy of your vote on Aug. 7.
Brian Jerd
Soddy Daisy