We’ve all heard the stories — elections won by a handful of votes. We point them out each election season to remind registered voters to go to the polls.

Tuesday is Alaska’s Primary Election. It’s a time to advance candidates to the general election. It’s time to decide some important and controversial ballot measures. It’s time to cast a ballot or lose your chance to grouse about the outcome.

There’s plenty to be passionate about in the ballot measures: aerial predator control, voluntary campaign fund limitations, establishment of an Alaska Gaming commission and the future of mining in Alaska. These are issues that will help form Alaska’s future. They aren’t to be taken lightly. They aren’t to be ignored. Read information on both side of each issue and head to the polls as a knowledgeable voter. It’s our civic duty.

There are also important primary elections. Alaskans must vote not only with a interest in the outcome on Aug. 26, but also with an eye toward the November general election.

You’ll be asked to choose one of three ballots based on party preference. It may be a convoluted system, but it is what we have. Go to the polls knowing your options.

It’s all about being informed and being motivated. It’s a right, a privilege and a freedom paid for many times over by blood. Do your part on Tuesday to make democracy work. Vote.

Eat local, eat well

Alaska Division of Agriculture has a tasty challenge for all of us: “Eat Local.”

The division is sponsoring an “Eat Local Challenge” this week, today through Aug. 30.

The concept, according to Division of Ag staff, is to get more Alaskans sourcing local produce during the week. Amy Pettit, marketing specialist at the division, said a number of restaurants have agreed to participate and feature Alaska Grown products on their menus during Challenge week.

The division is also soliciting information from consumers with an online survey at www.alaskagrown.org. It’s a short survey that helps gauge interest in Alaska Grown products and motivation for their purchase. It’s information the division can use as it promotes Alaska Grown and can be shared with growers.

At the Web site, you can also find farmers’ markets, see what’s in season and find out what’s happening in the world of Alaska Grown. That includes Alaska Grown Day at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer on Wednesday and the ever-popular Giant Cabbage Weigh-off on Friday evening.

So get out there and enjoy Alaska’s bounty — “Eat Local.”