To Ms. Castleman:

I am sorry if you feel that, as students, our votes should not count for anything that affects this city. However, let me point out that while the student population here does turn over, as a demographic our opinions remain fairly constant.

Yes, some students may graduate, and new ones will be here next year, but that is precisely why we all must vote. It is our duty, not only to ourselves, but to the future population.

This year’s seniors are voicing their opinions on subjects that will affect not only next year’s freshman, but next year’s student body and Martin population as a whole.

Perhaps what you meant was that young people in this city shouldn’t “ruin” it for the older generation.

Seeing as I am 29, I could use your same argument and ask you not to vote, as I will be living here longer than you. You say “most of the people in Martin” are against a lottery and liquor by the drink.

I suggest that students are part of this population, and to presuppose the outcome of an election negates the point of voting.

We are citizens too, and it would be my hope that every person that is qualified to vote will do so. The only way for the results to be meaningful, no matter what the outcome, is if everybody’s voice is heard.

Notice that I did not voice my opinion one way or the other. My opinion is my own, reached logically and soundly.

If we all do the same, without rhetoric or mud slinging, the outcome will truly be in the best interest of the majority of the population. Sounds a little bit like democracy to me.

Richard Gonzalez is a senior Education major from Adams.