I hope this newsletter finds everyone doing well and enjoying the full splendor of Fall, with the change of leaves and cooling temperatures, it makes for perfect conditions to enjoy our many parks and open spaces in Fountain. As we look to enjoy Halloween with the kids, we also have a very important date for our nation coming up, November 5th, 2024, the General Election.
When I think about voting, not only do I think about how fundamental it is to our republic, but also memories of voting that reinforced what a special and amazing right we cherish in America. For instance, I remember my first vote was for Ronald Reagan, and how he had visited my elementary school as Governor of California and how excited I was to vote for him for President.
Other Fountain Council Members have shared some of their memories of voting as well, such as Mayor Pro Tem Gordon Rick, who voted for the first time in 1980. He was in the Army at Fort Knox, KY, and remembers casting his vote in a motor pool on the post, with the help of his battalion voting officer.
For our Veterans, thank you for protecting our nation and fundamental rights, and for also helping empower others to vote. I know one Iraq War Veteran who described his unit's efforts to secure and facilitate free elections. Many in his unit thought turnout would be poor, but were surprised by the long lines, cooperation and proudly displayed purple inked fingers of Iraqi citizens who voted for the first time for a new government.
As you look to this election, I encourage you to fill out your ballot and send it in before the election day deadline. If you need help learning about some of the ballot initiatives, the Colorado “Blue Book” can be a helpful resource, found here: 2024 Blue Book (English) | Colorado General Assembly
Lastly, there are several ballot drop off stations throughout El Paso County. Here is a list of locations: Ballot-Box-Locations-General-Election-2024.pdf.
Thank you as always and contact me anytime at: [email protected]. I’ll see you soon at the American Legion Post 38 Veterans Day event on November 9th, starting at 1:30pm. The American Legion is at 6685 Southmoor Dr. in Fountain.