It is no secret we are sharing in our nation’s economic downturn. Thanks to the leadership of our previous and current Town Council, and a lean effective town staff, our town is weathering this downturn better than most of the Valley cities and towns -- if not all of them.

At the candidates night, Mike Archambault helped us to remember what is the real glue that keeps our town together and prospering. They are the hundreds of dedicated citizen volunteers. Mike reminded us more than once that this town’s long history of citizen involvement is what makes our town so very special.

While listening to the candidates, I noticed that the three current council members on the ballot have a combined 81 years as residents of Fountain Hills. Can you just imagine the history lesson they could share with us!?

Yes, we are very blessed to have Ginny Dickey, Mike Archambault and Henry Leger serving us with their knowledge, understanding and caring for our town.

Mike Archambault, one of the very few members in the “30 plus Year Club” as a resident, and his family have been my friends for 28 of those years.

During that time I have come to know Mike the man, the giver, the husband and the father. Mike is truly a giver! He willingly has given so much of his time and assets to the needs of others over these many years. Our family is proud to call him friend.

As for the need for “new blood,” in these hard times filled with difficult decisions, tested and proven leadership is what we really need.

Please join me in helping to re-elect Mike Archambault to our Town Council. Yes, experience does count!