The anger over government shenanigans is understandable, what with fugitive legislators in Wisconsin and Indiana and Georgia state senators hiding in caucus in lieu of acting on Sunday alcohol sales.

We hear grumbles in Newton County, too; folks are irked over how the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax was handled or perturbed about particular components of the SPLOST. Some have threatened a vote in protest against the penny tax extension.

A word of advice: Chill.

A second word of advice: Think.

We need SPLOST, and it’s in the self-interest of each voter to take the time and vote "Yes" on March 15. It’s our best chance to pay-down debt and to pay for projects that benefit us all, such as roadwork and improving emergency room facilities in the county. Without it, property taxes would inevitably rise and government services would be slashed.

That’s too high a price to pay to make a point.

Do what’s right to help your community, and help yourself, too.

Vote for SPLOST.