Letter: Informed votes

To the editor:

The Voter Education Coalition is a nonpartisan organization composed of approximately 18 community groups. The VEC’s goal is to promote civil dialogue and broad participation of citizens and candidates through community forums.

A forum featuring seven pairs of candidates for local and state offices was held on Oct. 15. For those who were unable to attend this event, it will be available online through LJWorld.com and on-demand through Knology. It is hoped that the forum will assist voters in making informed decisions on Nov. 6.

The Voter Education Coalition is hosting one more opportunity for the public to meet and talk with the candidates. On Saturday, all the candidates running in Douglas County – opposed and unopposed – have been invited to visit with the voters at the Lawrence Farmers’ Market from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

As we move through this election cycle we would like to thank our candidates for their willingness to serve in elective office. It is not always easy to take time away from family and work. The candidates deserve our thanks and our respect for their willingness to serve.