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We've all heard "one vote can make a difference." For a 13-year old who can't yet vote, she's finding that one person's involvement can make a difference in getting others to vote.
Ever since Jessi Cosgrove went to a Democratic rally in Charleston, she has been stumping for John Kerry, the Democratic Presidential Candidate.
Over the summer she set up a political display at the Minnora Community Farmers' Market and handed out literature, stickers, cards, and buttons advertising the Democratic Party.
She obtained the material from Democratic Headquarters and from the John Kerry Headquarters, both in Charleston.
Jessi has also signed a petition against negative talk during the campaign, and one criticizing the environmental risks George W. Bush is taking.
However, her main goal is to "get out the vote!" She hopes to inform the public about the importance of voting.
"Since WV is a Democrat state, and I'm for the Democrats, I plead to every West Virginian to vote," she says.
"Only about 20 or 30% of Calhoun County residents who can vote, do vote. During this election, I hope we can get that percentage up to at least 80%."
Jessi is definitely proof that one person can make a difference.
A Charleston television station recently interviewed Jessi
She's discussed strategies with Nick Casey, WV's Democratic Party Chairman and has joked with Senator Jay Rockefeller.
Jessi and Senator Jay Rockefeller
She also received training as a phone bank captain at a democratic conference at West Virginia State University in Institute. Many residents saw her this past weekend during the Molasses Festival Parade passing out fact sheets about John Kerry and the Democratic vision for West Virginia.
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