Thanks to all the people who gave me their support and their votes, I won my race to the Kansas Senate with 70 percent of the vote, one of the largest margins of the night. My place in the Kansas House, representing the 84th District, will be taken by Gail Finney.

As happy as we were about our victories, the highlight of our watch party came about 10 p.m., with the announcement that Barack Obama had been declared winner of the presidential election!

This is the big day

Election Day is here!

Whether you've already voted by mail-in ballot or at an advance-voting location, or waited until today to exercise your constitutional right to go to the polls, THANK YOU!

If you are one of the hundreds of people who showed your support by displaying an Oletha Faust-Goudeau yard sign, THANK YOU!

If you made a contribution to my campaign so that I could get the word out about why I'm seeking the District 29 State Senate seat, THANK YOU!

If you attended a community forum to learn more about my record, my priorities and what I stand for, THANK YOU!

If you took the time to say a word of encouragement and support, or tell me what issues are on your mind, THANK YOU!

If you endorsed me by writing a letter or shared your thoughts with friends, family and neighbors, THANK YOU!

Our community needs people like you who are motivated, informed and engaged in the political process.

Your vote is important!

Fast paced

Three weeks until Election Day and the pace is picking up! In the past few days, I've attended several candidate forums and talked to hundreds of voters. Usually we have only 3 to 5 minutes to explain who we are, what we've done and what we intend to do if elected. My legislative priorities are based on your concerns: Better-paying jobs, healthier families, quality education and safer communities. The campaign schedule can be a challenge — especially when events are back-to-back or at the same time! — but it's so rewarding to meet with people who've taken the time to attend. Important dates coming up:
— Advance ballots go out in the mail today, Oct. 15. (Don't forget to fill it out and mail it back!)
— The last day to register to vote is Oct. 20.
— Voting early in person at the Sedgwick County Elections Office starts Wednesday, Oct. 22 and runs through noon Nov. 3.
— Election Day is Nov. 4.

Thanks for your vote!

3 weeks to registration deadline

Monday, Oct. 20 is the last day to register to vote for the general election. Click here for a downloadable / printable copy of the voter registration form. It's available in English and in Spanish. Once you have it filled out, return it to the Sedgwick County Election Office in the Historic County Courthouse, 510 N. Main #101, Wichita KS 67203 by 5 p.m. Oct. 20.

Encourage your friends and neighbors to register, then vote on Tuesday, Nov. 4!