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Get ready, get set — vote in Nov. 3 election

I have an important message for you: Take the necessary steps to ensure you are ready to vote on Nov. 3.

In my opinion, voting is one of the most important things that each American can do. It is the foundation of our nation. Voting is the way we make our voices heard. It allows us to choose our local, state and national leaders, It provides us the opportunity to decide how much we will pay in taxes and what those funds will be used for. In some cases, it even lets us make or reject new laws.

Voting in Ohio typically is easy to do. Polling places are readily accessible, and there are many options for casting our ballots. This year, we have every reason to expect that a large portion of the electorate will vote by mail, in keeping with efforts to reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. That may cause some voters concern or confusion.

Before you can cast a ballot by any method, though, you must be registered to vote. The deadline to do that is Oct. 5. You can register in person at your county board of elections or by going online.

If you plan to vote by mail, you also must request an absentee ballot. Secretary of State Frank LaRose is mailing absentee ballot applications to each registered voter in the state, and you can also obtain an application by calling your board of elections or going online.

For more details on any aspect of the voting process, visit sos.state.oh.us. If you prefer to seek help over the phone, call your county board of elections headquarters:

∫ Belmont County — 740-526-0188

∫ Harrison County — 740-942-8866

∫ Jefferson County — 740-283-8522

∫ Monroe County — 740-472-0929

∫ ∫ ∫

On a side note, I’d like to take a moment to thank a few of our readers for reaching out to me during this time of relative isolation.

In one case, I received a letter proposing a solution to a problem I had written about — deer invading my garden. The letter includes a recipe for a natural concoction to spray around the garden and discourage the animals from approaching and eating their fill.

In another instance, I received a phone message from a reader who said the positive topic I touched on in this space one Sunday made her feel good, both mentally and physically. That was great to hear!

Finally, thanks to all of you who submit letters to the editor and who send me messages via email, letting me know you care about your local newspaper.

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