Sept. 30, 2002 – If you haven't decided which candidate to support in the Nov. 5 governor's race, the St. John Community Foundation gubernatorial debate on Oct. 9 might help you make up your mind. The public event is set for 7 p.m. in the Westin Resort ballroom.
All eight candidates for governor have been invited to participate.
The Community Foundation's executive director, Carole DeSenne, said that as of Monday, Michael Bornn, Cora Christian, John de Jongh and Gov. Charles W. Turnbull had confirmed they will attend. Yet to be heard from were Sen. Alicia "Chucky" Hansen, Lt. Gov. Gerard Luz James II, Hernando "Ike" Williams and Lloyd Williams.
To be scheduled to take part, the candidates "must respond in writing," DeSenne said.
Each candidate will be allowed an opening statement and afforded the opportunity to debate seven to 10 questions to be formulated by the Community Foundation with input from the community. The questions will focus on issues relevant to St. John.
The Community Foundation is looking for questions that cover the areas of education, health, taxes, crime, public corruption, infrastructure, insurance, tourism, housing, the environment, recycling, recreation and government services. Each question is to begin with the phrase, "If you are elected governor, how would you use your office to …"
Following closing statements by the candidates, additional questions will be taken from the audience.
Members of the public may submit as many questions in advance to the Community Foundation for consideration as they like. Questions must be received by Oct. 5. Those submitting queries will get a chance in a drawing for a 24-inch color television set to be held at the debate. To win, you must be present.
The foundation will not hold a senatorial debate. Member Rob Crane said there are too many legislative candidates — 23 for the St. Thomas-St. John district, three for the at-large seat — to fit them all into one night. He said the organizers feared that attendance would drop off if there were two nights of senatorial debates plus the night for the gubernatorial debate.
Questions may be submitted to the Community Foundation by faxing to 693-9410 or by mailing to PO Box 1020, St. John VI 00831. Include your name, address and telephone number. For more information, call the Community Foundation at 693-9410.
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