I have come to the conclusion that election time is a lot like fixing my car. It might not be something I always think is necessary, but without a tune-up, some oil, and a kick of the tires once in a while, my car just won't run right. Running a country, a province or a municipality seems to me to be fairly similar.

Not that I'm suggesting politicians need any oiling up or kicking. But it's a healthy thing every few years to look at what is working and what is not; what could use a tune-up, what needs a little oil and what needs a swift kick to the curb.

Even if you are happy with the status quo either here or in Ottawa, voting is an important chance to drive your points home. If we as a country speed one direction and you'd rather take a different route, you need to honk your voting horn and make it heard.

OK. Enough of the car metaphors here. The point is, if you want to do any sort of complaining about decisions made, you actually have to vote. If you're not part of the process, you can't be part of the solution.

I don't want to hear any of you complaining if you don't vote. No vote, no right to complain. By voting, you are engaged in the political system and part of the driving force behind change, whether that is for the economy, the environment, or health.

Locally, your vote makes even more of a difference because you can directly see the impact based on who you vote for and the election promises they have made. Do you want to see a bike path? Ask the candidates if they would support that. How about more services, less taxes, up to the date infrastructure, more or less development or you just want the community to run smoothly? Engage the local candidates in debate. Come to the all-candidate's meeting. Ask them what they want to see for the community as whole, and vote accordingly.

If you don't get in the driver's seat for this election, you may find yourself in the slow lane with the chance for an improved community quickly passing you by.

Lorene is editor of The Observer, is a firm believer in voting and is the proud owner of a semi-tuned up Volkswagon.