Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1510001
| THE COLONY NEWS | NOVEMBER 2023 | 5 VOTE By Margaret Norville Voting Nov. 7, 2023: It often happens that the reason for a tradition falls away over time. Such is the case of our Federal voting day. Initially, each State held elections on various dates within 34 days before the first Wednesday in December. The problems with that became clear. Late voting states might be influenced by the early voting results. Additionally, late voting could control the outcome and result in unexpected winners. A law passed in 1845 established a consistent voting day for Presidential elections and was later extended to Congressional elections – the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. How did they come to that? At the time, our country was an agrarian society and strongly Christian. People were likely to be in Church on Sunday. Farmers were at the market on Wednesday. Polling places might easily be a day travel away, so travel time was a consideration. Spring planting and fall harvest were concerns as was the threat of a severe winter. Aha! November was perfect. Then to avoid any possible conflict with the Christian celebration of All Saints Day on Nov. 1, the final clause was added that voting would occur between November second and eighth. With changes in our society and lifestyles, many voting options are now extended. Who knows where it will end as our way of life continues to change. FILE OF LIFE By Bud Siler, 310-367-2009 The File of Life is a form you fill out with basic personal information, including: emergency contacts; doctor, medical and pet information (if you have pets); current medical conditions and medication list; and pharmacy information. Along with the form, you receive a File of Life sticker to place on your door or window and a small magnetic folder to put the form in and attach to the side of your refrigerator. When the paramedics arrive, they will get the file and immediately have most of your information available, which saves time and maybe your life. If you travel, carry a copy of the file on your person for quick reference. For those of you who already have the file but need to update your information, you may contact me at the above number or email me at budsiler@gmail.com. Also, forms have been given to Cindy at the Reception desk.