It gets said a lot, but every vote really does count.

Several local and statewide elections have been settled by just a few votes. Just this past June, the Republican Party saw Alabama’s first primary recount.

That’s why it’s important to let you voice be known by educating yourself about the candidates and going to the polls to vote.

Maybe it’s the down economy. Maybe it’s some of the tarnish Gov. Bob Riley’s bingo task force has brought to Goal Hill.

Maybe it’s a general lack of familiarity with either candidate. Blame it on what you will but this year’s gubernatorial contest is hardly hotly contested.

Usually, little or slow chatter translates to voter apathy.

Several important voting deadlines are just around the corner. October 22 is the last day to register to vote. That deadline is followed by the last day for voters to make a request for an absentee ballot on Oct. 28 and the last day for voters to hand deliver or postmark an absentee ballot on Nov. 1.

Please keep these dates in mind as you prepare to vote in Tuesday’s Nov. 2 election.

Your turnout will be key to selecting the best possible leader for our state in the coming years.

We, as a state, face many challenges and we deserve the best candidates in office to navigate those waters.