To get you started, The Covington News and the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce will present a debate by the candidates in contested local races at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Covington Branch of the Newton County Library, 7116 Floyd St.

You can learn about the issues from the candidates themselves in local state senate and house races and in county commission and school board races.

Coffee and light snacks will be provided, too, thanks to The Farm Bureau.

It should be a fun evening, but there are some serious issues to be decided by the folks you choose in November.

The race for county commissioner could determine the fate of sales of liquor by the drink in the county, and the winners of the two school board races will be instrumental in helping set our school district on the right path for its future success in working with our children.

If you haven't made your choice for these elected offices, here is an opportunity for you to learn more so you can make an informed decision when you do cast that ballot on Nov. 2.