The local political elections have been a nice windfall for my presidential year.  I think most of you will agree, our programs have been more exciting when we have candidates speaking, or receiving endorsements from the SBMC Political Action Committee (PAC), or even when they just stop by for a Candidate Corner engagement.

 The Duval County General Election was March 24th; the only races that were decided that day were the ones where a candidate garnered over 50% of the vote.  The races that didn't meet that requirement, have a run-off election on May 19th of the top two vote getters.

 First a bit of info, 33.77% of the registered voters in Duval County voted on March 24th.  If you were one of the 185,395 people who cast votes on that day, then thank you!  If you didn't, then you really can't complain about any of the election results, or the ensuing fallout of the next 4 years. 

 Here's what you have left to vote on for the run-off election on May 19th:  Mayor, Sheriff, At-Large groups' 1, 3, and 5, and City Council Districts 1, 2, 4, 7, and 8.

 At this past Wednesday's meeting, our members got to see a fantastic debate between both remaining Sheriff's candidates: Mike Williams and Ken Jefferson.  I listened as both men make strong presentations for their candidacy.  However, a number of members came to me afterward and stated that are now leaning toward the other candidate.  Obviously, things were said that resonated, or, something was said that now deters them from their original choice.  Ultimately, I always respect a person who casts their vote based on researching the issues and the stances of each candidate. 

 Folks, this is why we hold these meetings, and this is why it is critical for you to attend.  As the old saying goes: knowledge is power. 

 So this is what we have remaining on our schedule:

 --On April 22nd, Mayor Alvin Brown will be visiting us to pitch his re-election bid to our members. 

 --On April 29th, Lenny Curry will attend our meeting to present his case as to why he should be our next mayor.

 --On May 6th, we have invited all remaining candidates for the undecided At-Large races to speak to us.  Remember, every voter can vote in each At-Large race.  So regardless of where you live, or what At Large group a candidate may be vying for, you still vote in that race.

 There you have it.  You know when the candidates will be speaking to our Club.  The SBMC-PAC will be making endorsements for the remaining races.  You know the run-off election date.  There really is no excuse for you to not place your vote.  Unless you're a felon, and/or live in St. Johns County.

 If you live in St. Johns County and think none of this affects you, then ponder this: How much of your personal, professional and financial life is spent in Duval County?  I know of a business owner who lives in St. Johns County but their business operations are in Jacksonville.  They're tired of paying Duval taxes and being regulated by Duval, but have no say-so in the governmental operations.   So they are relocating their residence to Duval County...just sayin'.