The recent Primary and Town Council election demonstrates, once again, that every vote is important.

Talk about close races. Here in Fountain Hills, Art Tolis won the Town Council seat by only eight votes. The Congressional District 5 race was not as close in numbers, but percentagewise it was so close it required a recount.

For your vote to count: 1) You must be registered as a voter - deadline: Monday, Oct. 10;

2) You can vote early by mail ballot - if not on the Permanent Early Voter List you can request a ballot until Friday, Oct. 28th; 3) You can vote early in person at Town Hall from Monday, Oct. 17 through Thursday, Nov. 3; 4) You can vote in person on Election Day at your assigned precinct between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. If voting by provisional ballot in person at any other than your correct precinct, your vote will not be counted.

Being an informed voter is a part of your responsibility as a good citizen.

As amply demonstrated in the CD 5 race court hearings and recount, ballot integrity is very important. You can play a role in helping ensure safe, efficient and accurate elections by working for the county at the polls on Election Day or by hand-counting and auditing ballots afterward. Training is provided for these paid positions. Additional volunteers are needed to conduct the General Election on Nov. 8. For more information or to volunteer, call County Elections at 602-506-1511 or visit the County Recorder’s website.

On another subject: Special thanks to Bill Beamish and the exchange students who put on the beautiful and moving display at the Veterans Memorial on Patriots’ Day. What a wonderful reminder of that horrific day. Thanks for your time and effort.