In these uncertain times, amidst concerns about unemployment, economic stability, population shrinkage and the future of Moody AFB, our business matters more than ever. Political and organizational unity is essential to our area.

Take a look at the community around you and ask yourself the important questions. Does it feel like home? Can it be better? What changes do you want to see, and how can they be implemented?

The Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber focuses a great deal of effort on advocating for the needs of the business community. Productive commerce ensures the quality of life for citizens that fosters growth and development on both civic and commercial fronts. It is because of this correlation that the Chamber encourages every registered voter to visit the polls on Tues., Nov. 4 to cast a ballot.

“The interests of the nation and the individual are best served when a majority of its citizens vote,” said Ron Borders, Chamber Board Chairman - Elect for 2015 and former Georgia State Representative and Valdosta City Councilman.

As we journey through the last half of the year, we will hear countless advertisements about the candidates seeking election. There will be debates, platform presentations and opportunities for us to connect with those who want to represent our needs.

Take advantage of these opportunities. Ask questions. Voice your opinions. Become familiar with those who ask for your vote. Diligent research is the responsibility of every voter. If we are to see growth in our community, we must embrace our responsibility to put the right people in the right places. It is not enough to talk about what is wrong if we will not do what is right.

“It is vitally important that people participate in our free and open elections – it is a right not many people enjoy around the world and no one has it any better than Americans,” said Georgia State Senator Tim Golden. “But with that right comes responsibilities, such as taking the time to get educated on candidates and the issues and then taking the time to VOTE. The decisions made by elected officials at the local, state and federal level are important. Therefore it is important that we select political representatives that will protect our vital interests in their respective offices and that we elect individuals who reflect our views and values.”

The Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber’s President’s Partners, along with the Valdosta Board of REALTORS® and the Home Builders Association of South Georgia, will host Meet The Candidates on Tues., Oct. 7 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Rainwater Conference Center. The event will provide the opportunity for voters to meet and hear from local, state, and national election candidates as well as hear a short platform presentation from each candidate. There is no cost to attend this event. For more information, contact Miranda Moore at (229) 247-8100 ext. 231 or[email protected].

Do your homework, but don’t stop there. The effort to voice our opinions is wasted if we don’t support our sentiments at the polls. Get educated, and then go vote. The future of our community, our home, depends on you.