Do your part

Dear Mike:
I would like to congratulate and thank all of those who have stepped forward and chosen to let their names stand for office.
It takes courage to take such an active role in democracy.
This election is shaping up to be a very exciting contest (16 candidates running for council and three for mayor), with every position challenged and with strong candidates in the running.
The candidates have done their part in putting their names forward; now voters need to learn a little more about them and their platforms.
It is my hope some civic organization(s) will come forward and sponsor a “meet the candidates” evening or two. This is critical, with so many in the running, to ensure voters can learn more about these candidates.
It is crucial that the public have a chance to meet with all of us who are running for office. The electorate needs opportunities to become informed regarding the positions of the various candidates.
It is of the utmost importance that voters become informed, decide who they will support, and, above all, that they vote.
We are all in this together. If you would like to be a part of positive change, then please be sure to do your part—vote!
Sincerely,
Andrew Hallikas
Fort Frances, Ont.
Editor’s note: Mr. Hallikas is one of the three candidates running for mayor.