No one is more excited than I am about the culmination of this Presidential election, and not for the reasons you think. After several months of harsh political commercials, finger pointing and uncomfortable conversations, the end has finally arrived. Tonight we will find out who has clawed their way to the top, and the rest of us can get back to our hum drum lives.

Several local hot spots share the climate of excitement and anticipation many voters have been exhibiting, and have decided to do something about it. In true South Florida fashion, the Sun-Sentinel has comprised a list of local hot spots hosting election parties for tonight’s monumental event.

Starting at 7 p.m. Cinema Paradiso will be hosting an election night bash like no other. Democratic and Republican themed hors d’oeuvres and drink specials will be available for those wishing to have a little fun while waiting for those election results. The Himmarshee Bar & Grille will also be hosting an election fete starting at 7 p.m. Enjoy a red or blue cocktail, appetizers and lots of fun! Last but not least, head over to the 6-10 p.m. “Election Escape Soiree” at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. Enjoy drink specials, exquisite ambiance and signature dishes from each candidate’s hometown.

After two years of campaigning, mudslinging and peek-a-boo appearances from our current President, tonight we’ll find out who will fix our current economical mess. Whether you voted Republican, Democrat or didn’t vote at all, you’re sure to want a drink and some laughs to wash the news down.  If you’re choosing to stay home, try the Sun-Sentinel drinking game. Win or lose, blue or red you’re sure to be a happy camper regardless of tonight’s outcome.

Since early voting began on Monday, South Floridians have been heading out to any of the numerous polling locations available. But it hasn’t been smooth sailing. Apparently everyone’s caught the early voting bug and what should be easy, is taking several hours to do. And today is only day four.

Large crowds, some wrapping around buildings, are the norm and the Miami Herald is questioning whether the State Legislature is to blame. In an article published yesterday, the Herald said “Republican legislators led a charge three years ago to set new statewide standards limiting the number of polling sites and their hours of operation.”

Instead of the previously allotted 12 hours, early voting was cut down to only 8. Former Governor Jeb Bush signed this bill into law in 2005. In defense of their decision, Republicans said “the new rules set much-needed uniform standards while saving government money by trimming polling times.”

Since the economy has been a major concern for most Americans, this money saving tactic can be appreciated on some level. Unfortunately though, this frugal effort has cost many South Floridians valuable time and money. Standing in those long early voting lines has caused some voters to miss work and much needed pay.

The question most people have on their mind is, Is early voting worth it? The answer is a matter of personal judgment. Whatever you decide the credo is clear, voting today or next month is better than not voting at all.