Election Day is finally here and there have been some things said that it was hard to make up my mind, but nothing keeps me away from voting. I am neither a Republican or a Democrat, but an Independent, because I feel some people only think of their own political party and that nothing can be good about the other party. When I vote, I’m exercising not only my greatest responsibility as an American citizen, but my greatest privilege, too. I know that this year in particular I am helping decide what kind of America we will have for the next four years. I would never not vote and I hope all my family and friends vote, if they don’t, please, don’t complain how things are going.

I’ll be glad to have the election over because the politicking has lasted much too long and negative campaigns have traditionally accomplished little or nothing. With so many important issues facing this nation and its people there is no time for negative campaigns. Some of the things I have heard, you know couldn’t be true. Issues that the leadership of this country must face is numerous and with so many important issues facing this nation and its people there is no time for negative campaigns. With all these issues, leadership is important to impact the economic, social and the cultural fiber of our society. With all the turmoil in the world it is important to maintain a strong defense, but our country cannot police the world. At home we should be directing our spending to the social problems we are faced with. We know there are educational needs to be met. Welfare and housing for this country’s poor will have to be addressed. Also every election civil rights and equal rights always is a issue and so are economics.

As a citizen of this country we have certain rights and privileges and I feel as a citizen I have certain responsibilities and that is to vote. There are many countries in the world that have no vote in their government and because I vote I hope my vote will make our country a better place. In a election year I hate all the negative feelings that can be found everywhere. Whoever we elect the politicians and government should be reminded that they do not dictate policy, but it is to see that the policies are the ones the people want. Too many people today want the benefits the government has but don’t want to do their part. Life is not about taking, it is about giving. Many men died for our right to vote, as well as the other rights we take for granted. Whoever is elected President, we as citizens of the United States should work together instead of being divided.

Here is one of my favorite fall recipes and we especially like it served with potato salad.

PORK CUTLETS WITH SPICED APPLES

3 apples, cored and

sliced

1/3 cup lemon juice

12 boneless pork loin

cutlets

2 Tablespoons butter

1 Tablespoon olive oil

2 teaspoon ginger

1/2 dried thyme

salt and pepper to taste

Toss apples with lemon juice. Cook pork in hot butter and oil for 5 minutes. Add apples, ginger, and thyme. Turn pork and cook 4 minutes longer. Add 1 Tablespoon of water, cover and simmer on low heat 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

“VOTE.”