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Sometimes it pays to think twice
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Thinking twice about a decision doesn’t necessarily mean changing one’s mind:  It really should ensure that we have garnered facts and considered angles.

  

For example, when the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce began talking about moving their office from the Old Jail in downtown Dawsonville out to the Ga. 400 area, I was frankly disappointed.

  

After all, many of us were proud that the historic building had been restored, thanks to a number of individuals and businesses, and that it was being put to such good use. Some of you may recall that I did an article about those efforts.

  

When I attended the Grand Opening of the new Chamber Welcome Center, I was fully convinced that it is a great move.

  

Not only is the building itself attractive, it is an attracting and practical location, from which visitors can learn about other places to visit in Dawson County. It is a beautiful way to increase tourism. Congratulations, chamber staff and members.

  

Some people are also having second thoughts about repealing the health care reform act, as they realize that all its benefits are not, cannot be, designed to become reality instantly. Some changes actually begin this year, but most of the effects are phased in over a period of years.  Fortunately, my personal medical bills are not very high, and I know that $250 doesn’t sound like much to help cover the prescription “donut hole.”  But for friends and relatives who pay thousands of dollars for medicines, the annual decreasing cost of those bills is a blessing.

  

Another blessing, for old and young, is the increasing coverage of preventive care — also being phased in. Personally, I am grateful that my “retiree insurance” now covers Silver Sneakers exercise programs, and I am taking advantage of those programs at our local senior center.

  

Dawson Countians should take a long look at many opportunities available to us, not only at the Senior Center, but at both our parks. If you haven’t checked out all the different activities, you should think again.

  

Although I enjoy the luxury of early voting, I agree with Representative Amos Amerson (in a recent column) that the voting time is probably too long. Not only are all those extra days expensive, one may hasten to the polls before learning all the facts about some of the candidates and especially amendments.

  

Facing a ballot with unfamiliar language about State Constitutional Amendments is a frustrating experience. Some concern local matters; others deal with situations about which many voters have no knowledge.

  

It behooves each of us to think at least once about them before we decide how, or even whether, to vote on specific ones.

  

Yes, we do need to encourage our citizens to fulfill their duty and vote, but voting without considering facts and consequences may be even worse than not voting at all.

   

Helen Taylor’s column runs periodically in the Dawson Community News.