The elections scheduled for May and November this year promise to be pivotal in charting the direction of this community as well as the state and nation. Greenville and Pitt County need strong representation in Raleigh and Washington, as well as here at home, to continue their emergence as the center for education, commerce and recreation in eastern North Carolina.

The filing period that began on Monday affords interested citizens their only opportunity to stand for public office, a decision of tremendous gravity but one that offers a clear shot at making a difference for area individuals and institutions. Those citizens with the experience, talent and fortitude needed to serve should consider making that leap for the betterment of this community.

Public service should be a noble calling for those who embrace its basic spirit. The chance to hold elected office affords the opportunity of debating the critical issues that must be determined by a community and making decisions with lasting and far-reaching effects. Sadly, North Carolina has seen too many officials succumb to the trappings of that role and lose sight of the reasons they first sought a place in government.

For the complete article, please pick up a copy of The Daily Reflector or purchase today’s electronic edition at http://www.reflector.com/circ-store. Current home delivery and electronic edition subscribers may log in to access this article at no charge. To become a subscriber, please click here or contact Customer Service at (252) 329-9505.