By Linda Driessen, Executive Director

Last night was the debate between two of the presidential candidates.  That reminded me that no matter how you feel about the choices you have, we still are blessed as a country to participate in the process to elect our public officials.  Not everyone has that privilege.  

I want to take this opportunity to remind you to get out and vote.  Educate yourselves on those that are running for office.  The presidential campaigns get a lot of attention, but there are many state and local elections that will impact all of us. Please do not to let those slide by without your attention.  From city and county, to state and federal, they all can impact your life and the lives of those we support. 

Some areas that need serious attention in Rochester are:

   1.  The lack of accessible, comprehensive public transportation

   2.  The lack of affordable (and I really mean affordable) housing

   3.  The impact that Destination Medical Center will have on the area economy

At the state and federal level, we have been impacted by important, but underfunded initiatives.  Educating your elected officials on the areas that are important to you, and those we support, can be very helpful.  Get registered to vote, if you have not.  Spend the rest of October getting to know the candidates so that you can make an informed decision in November.