The Hanford Chamber of Commerce is putting on a forum at the Civic Auditorium on Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. It would be nice to see a lot of Hanford residents show up and participate. A forum gives the public an opportunity to ask questions they may have in mind concerning city issues or the candidate in question. Each candidate could give a different and honest answer to the same question. The candidates' responses can help the public in selecting the best candidate for the position sought.

A candidate does not have to know all the answers, but should be willing to learn. When I got in, I asked many questions and I visited places or businesses in question. I made appointments for tours and I asked many questions to clear my doubts.

I hope the person next to me gets in honestly. Whoever the people vote for, I will work with them. I hope the new council person gets in because the people voted for them. Their votes should be based on their merits and not be tipped off on what the question will be.

If any candidate thinks that it's going to be unfair or if they think it's going to be against their advantage, I don't blame them if they skip and attend another forum at a different time. Anyone asking the questions should not be connected with the city council.

The chambers have been around for a long time and I'm sure they are being fair to everyone. I hope they give the public a chance to ask questions, too.

Myself, I don't endorse anyone. I'm neutral; whoever gets in, I will do everything I can to work with them.

I want to thank the public for taking time out of their busy schedules to attend the forum and I thank everyone who took out papers to run for office. I wish all of you the best of luck.

Thomas represents District E on the Hanford City Council.

(Aug. 7, 2008)