Your life, your children's or grandchildren's lives may depend on the answers to these four important questions.

By Jerry L. Salyer

Why this is important to you and your family.

JS: Only if the board explores all options to stabilize the district's precarious financial situation.

2. Q: Would you like to see the Tri-City Healthcare board fighting for access to quality, affordable healthcare for every person in the District, instead of fighting amongst themselves?

JS: YES-I want to bring people together---The culture of contentiousness must stop. Lives are literally at stake. Board members must behave in a respectful, dignified matter and find ways to disagree without being disagreeable. I have a proven track record of effective communication and seasoned leadership. Instead of fighting amongst themselves, the board must fight for access to quality, affordable healthcare for every person in the District!

3. Q: Are CHILDREN part of the community?

JS: YES- Kids count with me even though they can't vote. The recent board vote to close the pediatric unit makes us wonder what is really going on. There were protests at the medical center. The spin is amazing. In my book, children are an investment in the future of our community. I believe we must explore creative ways TCHD can be certain the children in our community receive quality healthcare.

4. Q: What unit is targeted next for closure?

JS: I don't like answering a question with a question but, honestly, who knows? The TCHD has a reputation for secrecy and chaos. Getting timely information from TCHD is difficult at best. I will work to change that with a fresh new, open approach. I am a common man with common sense working for the common good. I am a straight talking person of goodwill, who trusts in the voters' intelligence, and believes in the peoples' right to know. Improved communication and better understanding is my goal