There may be a slight economic recovery still underway or it could be that the recovery we thought was happening was stalled. Many we know are still unemployed, and food and gas prices have reached a new level. But here on the Island we can rejoice with signs of renewal in our business community. Over these past few weeks, we have seen two new businesses entering the mix here and two others expanding. Furthermore, there have been a handful of new businesses starting here since the beginning of the year. Although we are not a big community, it does not take many to make a difference. Certainly the renewed efforts by the organizers of the Third Thursday Art Walk are to be congratulated for continuing to expand the community event that showcases Island businesses, local artists and good music.

It was 41 years ago today, June 22, 1970, that then-President Richard Nixon signed the Voting Rights Act of 1970 into law. That act set in motion the establishment of 26th Amendment to the United States Constitution into being — the lowering of the minimum voting age from 21 to 18. Throughout the Vietnam war era, it was often stated that if young men could be drafted into the military (the last time the draft was used), they should have the right to vote for the people who send them into battle. It was a remarkable event in a remarkable time. Such an act did not hasten the end of the anger against the war, but it was a sign that the movement to end the war had accomplished something important. There are just 27 amendments to the Constitution of the United States, with only five approved since 1947.

The ability for 18-year-olds to vote will become more important as it represents the fastest growing and largest segment of the United States population. Data from the 2010 U.S. Census indicates that one-quarter of the population is under the age of 18 in both the United States as a whole and Washington state. Voting and citizenship are important values to Mercer Island residents. The keeping of these values brings responsibility — responsibility to be informed and open about the issues and to vote. In just over a month, ballots will be mailed for state primaries.