I need some help. I need someone to tell me a compelling reason why I should even take the time and energy, as little as it might be, to mail in my vote on the viaduct referendum.

I'm actually trying to establish a reasonable justification for voting at all around here. After all, the track record of our voting procedures actually making a difference seems rather suspect. In my short time here I've witnessed a stadium, voted down by the people, actually being built. I've witnessed a monorail system, approved numerous times by a vote of the people, actually being scrapped. I've endured a governor's vote count and recount that made even the Florida presidential vote look polished. I've heard the governor herself say that regardless of this outcome, the decision has already been made and then we invest a million dollars in the vote anyway. What is a responsible citizen of this great democracy supposed to do? Someone please help me!

There's a glaring disconnect between leaders and leadership in this part of the country. It seems as if maybe business has a monopoly on leadership. Leadership is courageously heading in the right direction, regardless of personal cost and agenda. It's doing the right thing for the right reasons. Not all leaders are successful in leadership. If this incredible area of our great country is ever going to make a significant difference beyond the influences of Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks, then its going to take some leadership from leaders who are up to the task. I think that maybe I'll reserve my vote for that time, when it may really make sense.

Dan Jacobs

Alaska Junction