Ingredients of an election: first you need trained election officers because without them we could not hold a democratic election. As a former election officer, I can appreciate the hard work and effort required to make the polling site user-friendly and as efficient as possible. Thank you to all those who have served or will be doing so in the future.

Second ingredient is candidates for various offices. This is one of the most essential components of the election. Thank you to all those who have made themselves available to serve.

The third crucial ingredient is the voter. All citizens have a civic responsibility to educate themselves about the candidates, judges and various propositions.

Finally, the most crucial element is the act of voting either in person or by absentee ballot to make the election process a reality. The success of any election depends on all of these ingredients.

The city of Thousand Oaks is very fortunate in the number and caliber of candidates that aspire to serve in this political process.

Current Councilmember Claudia Billde la Peña has demonstrated consistently the highest level of ethics and integrity in fulfilling her official duties. She performs in a trustworthy, independent and courageous manner and therefore has earned the respect and the honor to be reelected. Vince and Polly Vlasic Thousand Oaks