League of Women Voters launches new service for voters

New Yorkers looking for non-partisan information on candidates, issues and the election process itself will have the advantage of a new service from the League of Women Voters of New York State. For the first time, the league is putting all of its voter education efforts - a website, brochures, public service announcements and community-based events like debates - under one umbrella.

"We think the new name captures what the League is all about -- being a resource for voters," said Lee Serravillo, executive director of the League of Women Voters of New York State. "We've been doing voter education using various media for many years, but putting it all under one name will help citizens understand there's a great deal of information available if they look to the League for help."

Components of the Voter Resource Network include:

• A website, www.dnet.org which provides visitors with extensive information on candidates and where they stand on the issues. "D-Net" is part of MTV's "Rock the Vote" campaign, and is featured on America Online (AOL) for election coverage.
• "Facts for Voters" pamphlets which give citizens basic information on registration, absentee balloting and information about candidates for statewide office.
• A series of "Confident Voter" brochures which provide non-partisan explanations of complicated issues like prescription drug coverage, public school financing and the state budget process.
• "Project Positive Campaign" Public Service Announcements, which will be running on radio and television stations throughout New York state up to election day. These PSA's won a national "Telly" award and have been seen on CNN.
• Local organized debates, discussion programs and registration drives.

For information call 1-866-LWV-NYSI (1-866-598-6971).