MOUNT VERNON — On Oct. 6, area residents took the opportunity to come together and discuss election issues, brick streets, predatory lending and other current topics at the inaugural “Up for Discussion” public forum, sponsored by the Mount Vernon News and held at Sips Coffeehouse.
Representatives from the News, along with moderator Russ McGibney, will be on hand Monday for the second of three nights of open discussion.
“I was ecstatic, especially with the quality of people and depth we could go with topics,” McGibney said about the first night of forum.
McGibney and News Publisher Kay Culbertson agreed they enjoyed the exchange of conversation and ideas, but would like to see more residents attend.
“I enjoyed it. We discussed good topics and had good discussions. I would like to see more people there,” Culbertson said.
“I did like it. I would like to see more people get involved,” McGibney said.
McGibney expects to discuss state ballot issues as well as the presidential candidates in Monday’s session, to help prepare voters for the Nov. 4 election.
“As an intelligent society we need to have those decisions made before the 11th hour,” he said. “Our primary focus will be the election, but we can discuss whatever the public wants to talk about.”
As moderator of the forum, McGibney reminds the public that although candidates and issues will be discussed, it is not a soapbox for political candidates to campaign.
For those looking to soak in information, “Up for Discussion” offers an atmosphere to explore opinions and help sort out fact from fiction. Those in attendance are not required to participate, but thoughts, opinions and information is encouraged to be shared with the informal group.
“Up for Discussion” will take place Monday from 7 to 8:15 p.m. The final forum is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 3.
Sips is located 101 S. Main St., Mount Vernon.
