Back in June, we issued a call for men and women of character, competence, commitment and courage to step forward and run for public office.

I've written before about the declining number of candidates putting statements in the sample election ballot. Did it make a difference in the outcome of any of Tuesday's contests?

Hopefully, you're listening to the rain on your roof as you read this. If not, here's what you'll be hearing soon: Angry words. Accusations. Political backbiting and the results of backroom deals ... and, naturally, the rustle of dry, brown grass.