Important vote

Tuesday, Nov. 3, is Election Day. Heading the list is a special election for New York's 23rd Congressional District that has received national and even international attention. It is a significant race, the outcome of which will determine the future of Northern New York.

Town, village and county races are important as well, as evidenced by a flood of letters received by the Times in the past month. Issues of environment, energy development, taxation, spending, infrastructure and many others factors figure into local races.

Judicial positions and state propositions are also on the ballots.

Many have fought and sacrificed for our right to have a say in how we would be governed. Northern New Yorkers are encouraged to vote Tuesday.

The following are the Times' endorsements:

U.S. Congress, New York's 23rd District: William L. Owens

State Supreme Court, 5th Judicial District:James C. Tormey III and James W. McCarthy

Watertown City Council:Jeffrey M. Smith and Teresa R. Macaluso

Jefferson County Court Judge:Kim L. Martusewicz

Jefferson County Clerk:Cheryl D. Lane

Proposition One:Exchange of state forestland for power line: Yes

Proposition Two:Allowing state prisoners to perform public service for nonprofits: Yes