Editor,

Much has been said about the renewed interest in government in the last few years. While this “new-found” interest may appear to be the result of recent events, there is an organization that has been keeping its eye on government for almost 100 years — the League of Women Voters.

The LWV chose to make educating the public about government policy, advocating for government transparency and supporting voting rights its primary focus from its earliest days and it still does.

Our local league, League of Women Voters of Whidbey Island, is well known for its candidate forums and events focused on opportunities to meet and ask questions of our local elected officials, such as the annual legislative brunch.

The 10th District is represented by state Sen. Barbara Bailey, Rep. Norma Smith and Rep. Dave Paul.

These individuals have been elected to the Legislature to represent you, the members of the 10th District.

Our representative form of government works best when there is consistent, open dialogue between those who are represented and those who represent them.

The league would like to thank our legislators for their service and are pleased that once again, schedules permitting, they will attend to share their priorities and respond to our questions.

On Jan. 26, the LWV of Whidbey Island will once again host the legislative brunch, co-sponsored by the AAUW.

We are proud to say that for over 30 years our legislators have attended the brunch sharing their previous accomplishments and current priorities for the upcoming session.

The members of LWV of Whidbey Island and AAUW always look forward to this event.

What many do not know is that this event is also open to the public. If you are not a member of the LWV of Whidbey Island or the AAUW, you can make reservations for this well-attended event by sending a check payable to LWVWI at LWVWI, P.O. Box 1933, Oak Harbor, WA 98277.

Due to space limitations, reservations must be made in advance and the deadline is Jan. 21.

If you have found a “new interest” in government and are wondering how to follow it, consider the league.

As a nonpartisan political organization, we shape our policy positions based on rigorous study and the consensus of our members, not party affiliation.

The league is a reliable advocate for open government and the power of your vote.

Still have questions? Come to the brunch and watch us in action.

Mendy McLean-Stone

LWVWI board member