To the Editor:

As natives of St. Lawrence County, we vote with our conscience as opposed to adhering to any one political ideology.

Neither of us has registered with a particular party, because we will always cast our ballots for the most real and honest person who has the best ideas for creating and sustaining a vibrant North Country.

In reading the SLC legislator candidates responses to the question, "What is your vision for SLC for the next 10 years in terms of the local economy and environment and how do you see implementing that vision?” we are disappointed, in most cases, to see that the candidates are following the party lines.

One of our biggest concerns centers on sound bites that are focused around the “rooftop highway”; an idea that offers little except the possibilities for environmental and fiscal disaster. I-98 is not a viable answer to job creation and attracting tourists or big business.

Lets look to communities who have been successful in all of those areas and translate their success to the North Country. The Ithaca area, for example, seems to emanate economic vibrancy and community based participation that draws businesses as well as tourists. They don't have an interstate running through their bucolic environment.

In this age of information and innovation, elected officials, candidates, and voters alike can research the relevant issues and choose their positions based on non-biased, factual information.

We encourage everyone to step outside the “Partisan Box” to find real, honest, creative, collaborative, and sustainable solutions for a viable and dynamic local economy that supports all of its citizens, those of us who were born here and those who have chosen to make it their home.

Mike and Maria Corse

Pierrepont