The situation in Georgia is the very first big test for the candidates for president. To his credit, John McCain has stepped up to the plate with the most firm response to this crisis. The Russian military have been planning this for some time. Does it not surprise anyone that this was pulled to coincide with the Olympics? Georgia has been a genuine friend to America and, along with the Ukraine requested membership in NATO. Hummmmm...perhaps this is the true reason for Putin's iron grab to stomp out the torch of liberty before more people see its light and realize that they have a choice. In this election year, we, as free Americans, have a very important choice to make. Future generations will hold us responsible if wise decisions are not made here and now. The time for games is over. With so much that is at stake, we must do our homework before November. As for the crisis that is happening overseas, let us all hope and pray that the lights do NOT go out in Georgia.

RAY CLARKE

Elizabeth City