With the 2017 Primary Election over, some races have been decided and for others, the battle for the November General Election is just beginning.

            The voters have spoken, and barring a change in results from the numerous written ballots, the successful candidates, as well as unsuccessful incumbents will be watched by the voters.

            Tuesday night's congratulatory celebrations are over.  Gloating on social media is not an attractive way to exult in your victory while trashing your opponents.

            And unsuccessful candidates turning to social media to bash opponents is not a humble or dignified way to accept the loss.

            While the focus of many candidates is the November election, don't forget the people who put their trust in you by casting their ballot for you.

            Successful candidates should revitalize their focus on what they can do for the municipality and the people – all of the people.

            Unsuccessful incumbents should focus on the reasons for their loss and vow to finish their terms serving the people – not figuring out ways to make the jobs harder for the folks who will be entering the office in January.

            Political vengeance may harm your successful election opponents, but it will also hurt the people you vowed to represent – all of the people you promised to serve.

            Take the high road – everybody.

            In our local race for Magisterial District Justice, long-time Judge Catherine Hummel Fried will see her service to District 38-2-02 close at the end of the year.  Attorney Maureen Coggins took both the Republican and Democratic ticket in the race.

            This was something we don't get very often:  Two well-liked, qualified individuals running for office. The people couldn't loose.

            Judge Hummel Fried served the District well for 30 years and continues her service to the community in a variety of organizations.  To her, I say thank you for a job well done, and for the services you continue to provide.

            To Coggins, I say congratulations and well-wishes.  The reigns of District Court 38-2-02 will soon be in your hands.  Serve the people well – in and out of the courtroom.

            In East Greenville, the pro-East Greenville-Pennsburg regional police department candidates topped the ballots. 

            To the incumbents, I urge openness with the November candidates to keep them fully in the loop of all major decisions that will affect their ability to govern come January.  Do the business of the people in front of the people – not behind closed doors.

            The new Upper Perkiomen Middle School was on most voters' minds as they entered the polls.  The primary failed to produce any clear-cut winners for a seat on the Upper Perkiomen School Board and a November battle in the General Election looms.

            That's what primary elections are supposed to do.

            As this race takes shape over the next few months, remember that voters react quite differently to positive versus negative campaigns.

            Remember, during the campaign you are representing not only yourself, but those who support you. And, you are trying to win over those who have not yet decided.

            In an election season, a handshake tops a slap in the face every time.