Make sure voter registration information is current

Make sure voter registration is set

Whether you prefer to vote on Election Day, Nov. 3, or vote in the comfort of your home, now is the time to make sure your voter registration is up to date. If you have moved, changed address or want to change your party affiliation, you need to update your voter registration by Monday. Municipal elections will be held in St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach and Largo.

If you choose to vote at home, make sure that the signature on file matches your current signature. You can update your signature by contacting your Supervisor of Elections Office. Call (727) 464-6788 or 464-6108, or go to votepinellas.com.

But don't delay.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

Marti Folwell, president, League of Women Voters of North Pinellas County, Clearwater

Lower Pinellas crime up Sept. 29, story

Midtown crime rate still a problem

I'm glad to see the St. Petersburg Times reporting the crime statistics, but I honestly thought South St. Petersburg would have had a higher percentage rate.

I run a family-owned business in South St. Petersburg in the Midtown area that Mayor Rick Baker is so proud of. We have been here for 30-plus years, and I can tell you that the crime, drugs and prostitution in this area are nothing to be proud of. Trying to do business here is getting harder every day. In the past two years, my company has had $12,000 in out-of-pocket payouts for property damage, not to mention a truck stolen, my personal vehicle stolen and my fiancee shot at.

On Sept. 17, I e-mailed the mayor asking for some help. I received an answer from someone named Ellen telling me she would "share" my letter with the mayor. I have yet to hear anything else from them. As far as the statement made by Pinellas Sheriff Jim Coats about people being lax or complacent, I have a 6-foot fence with chains and locks — does that sound complacent to you? Maybe the media can hold Mayor Baker and Sheriff Coats accountable rather than let them blame the public.

I enjoy your paper and hope to see more stories that reflect what is really taking place in St. Petersburg.

Stephanie Watson, St. Petersburg