The race for the White House and 2008 has been long, combative and historic. Current angst over the economy, bridges and infrastructure, racial and ethnic divides have caused more interest in this election than any in recent history.

The nomination of the first African American for President, the first woman on the Republican ticket for Vice President as well as the candidacy of the first Democratic woman to run for the Presidency in the primary made history and media coverage around the world. Debate season is now upon us and Americans will have the opportunity to hear the presidential and vice presidential candidates address the issues so we can make personal decisions as to who will be the leader of the free world.

This is not a decision to be taken lightly. Voter registration has reached unprecedented numbers and the conventions and rally's have attracted record attendance and television viewership. The political pundits and prognosticators are eagerly awaiting the theater of Palin versus Biden and Obama versus McCain over the course of four debates. Historians will record the poignant history, including America's first African American candidate for President debating in Mississippi.

However, it is more important that all of us become more than observers, but rather participants. Watch the debates, learn the issues, choose a candidate and vote. The Debate process is not simply and entertainment choice on the television dial, it is a critical part of the voting process as you make a choice on November 4th.