When the Olympics are held, the athletes spend 16 days competing to win their races and take home a medal. Prior to those 16 days, the athletes have spent months and some have spent years in training – both physical and mental. It takes both to succeed as an athlete.

These athletes are the best of the best. Yet, behind each Olympian is a large army full of those who helped them get there. No one can make it to the Olympics on their own. It takes the power of others to help them win.

Each Olympian has a special story to tell about their mother, father, coach, high school buddy, friend or boss who helped shape them. They were encouragers and they influenced the life of these special Olympians and would not let them give up – no matter what.

We are 16 days away from celebrating and taking back the House. The candidates are like the athletes who are in the home stretch and they must put forth all they have to win. The candidates will be running their races in the home stretch with stressful debates, increased spending on commercials, attending fundraisers, giving speeches, and kissing a lot of babies.

We need to do our part to help them win. Fans show support for their favorite athlete and we can do the same for our favorite candidates. Here are some ideas:

· WEAR: Fans wear the colors or the name of their athlete on their clothing. Why not get a sticker of your candidate and wear it proudly every day for the next 16 days. When people ask you about it – tell them about your candidate and have literature nearby in your car, home or office to give to them.

· CAR: Put a bumper sticker on your car and make sure you behave behind the wheel. Your behavior represents a lot about the candidate so – get that lead foot off the pedal.

· YARD: Place a yard sign proudly on your lawn. Tie a balloon to it as we get closer to Nov. 2. The balloon draws attention and people will notice the sign.

· EMAIL: Send a letter to everyone you know and tell them who you are voting for and why. Fill them with facts and encourage them to vote the same way.

· WRITE: Write a letter to the editor and stand up for your candidate. Tell why you are voting for your candidate and give facts – not just emotion.

· POST: Post comments on blogs if they are For or Against your candidate. Again, be respectful and have all the facts.

· SIGNS: Hold signs at major intersections during the last week before Nov. 2. Choose an intersection that is busy with rush hour traffic to get the best bang for your time.

· RADIO: Call into your local radio shows who are political in nature. Again, tell them why you are voting for your candidate.

· GIVE: Stretch yourself and give $16 to your candidate today. Money is needed especially at this time of their campaigns.

· FACTS: It’s inevitable that someone will lie about your candidate (normal political musings). Be prepared with facts about those lies and set them straight!

· CALLS: Make phone calls from the local party headquarters. These calls encourage others to vote for your candidate.

· DRIVE: Tell your friends, family members or your neighbors that you will be happy to drive them to the polls so they can vote…that is if they are voting for your candidate!

· PRAY: For those who believe, say prayers for your candidates. They need them and prayer never hurts.

· CELEBRATE: iF YOU LIVE IN NORTH FLORIDA, JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL ELECTION NIGHT TEA PARTY RALLY AT THE LANDING AT 6:30. If not, plan a party to watch the returns with your friends and celebrate each win with a high five all around.

It will take you and I working together in this final stretch. If they are willing to give it their all to run for office, we must give it our all to help them win!

We believe in the power of you and I – so let’s get to work!