. "2"^^ . . "I got there before 7 on Wednesday, Sept. 17 to set up my voter registration table. I'm a volunteer for Barack Obama. We sign up anyone who wants to register, regardless of party preference.\n \nAlready a crowd was beginning to accumulate for the 8 a.m. opening. I hit 'em with \"Register to vote!\" Mostly they give me blank looks, shake their heads, or the \"stare ahead.\" A surprising number smile and say \"Already have! Thanks!\" Others stride purposefully toward my table, ready to fill out the form.\n\nBy 7:30 there were at least 50 people lined up. What happened next amazed me.\n\nA group of DMV employees emerged from the building and began talking to each person in line, finding out the purpose of the visit and giving them a number. Contrast this to the typical bureaucrat attitude we're all used to: I'll serve you when I'm damn good and ready (if I feel like it).\n\nThe office closes at 5 p.m. If you're a minute late, think of this: 5 means 5. Don't take it out on the security guard, as I saw some people do. You're not special. No one has to make an exception for you, cut you a break. You're just a pathetic person who couldn't get it together to be there by 5. Deal with it.\n\nThat afternoon I attended Barack's rally at the ballpark. It was a beautiful day.\n\nLast day to register is Oct. 4."^^ . "5"^^ . "1"^^ . . "2008-09-22T00:00:00"^^ . "2"^^ .