One of the most important things residents of Lawrence County and the United States of America can do is exercise their right to vote.

While some may think that their respective vote does not matter, that could not be further from the truth. Each vote cast carries the same weight as the next, and only when all those who are eligible to vote do does a true democracy work.

In just a little over a week, residents of Lawrence County and the state of Ohio will head to the ballot box for the primary elections of 2016. Candidates within his or her party are vying for the nomination to the general election later this year, and each are out presenting their pitches as to why you the residents should cast your vote for them.

While the messages from each of those running vary, and the rhetoric is some cases is as wide as the Grand Canyon; one thing is certain, and that is our country, state and county is at a pivotal time. It is very important that all those who can vote do, but more importantly understand the issues and why a vote is being cast for a candidate.

Voting is something that is very personal to each individual, and it is your responsibility to do your homework on the issues and respective candidates before heading to the polls on March 15. Each person should have his or her own reasons why they vote a certain way on an issue or candidate, but it should never be something that is taken lightly.

The ballot this year will include national, state and local races, and being prepared in advance will help you make the most informed decision that can ultimately help shape our future.