As a campaign focusing on the issues of northeast Rochester and the idea that "Every Neighborhood Counts," we strongly support a focus on real issues that affect residents.

However, we regret that the recent dispute over the fairness or unfairness of one of our campaign brochures has distracted some from the serious issue focus of Jim Bowers' campaign for City Council. Our campaign literature presents the office for which Jim is running in a number of ways, in both English and Spanish.

The piece in question went through an internal campaign review process including review and final signoff by us, the campaign manger and deputy manager. No intent to misrepresent was intended. However, if any voter in the Northeast District has honestly misinterpreted the piece or feels a misrepresentation has occurred, this we do regret and we accept the responsibility for it.

A serious discussion of the issues is what the Bowers campaign has, and remains focused on as evidenced in all of our published literature, our website, and Jim's public comments. The issues are also what we ask others to make this campaign about. Up until now, this has not been the case. Jim's opponent has engaged in a "Rose Garden" strategy to limit her exposure to public scrutiny as her recent refusal to appear jointly with Jim on the August 29 edition of WXXI 1370 Connection illustrates.

In the meantime, the Bowers campaign will continue to be one of ideas, substance, and direct contact with the voters. We will continue the good work we have begun, including helping neighbors set up block clubs and assisting children to get the school supplies they need. Why? Because every neighborhood counts.

AARON WICKS AND SUSAN IPPOLITI, ROCHESTER

Wicks is campaign manager and Ippoliti is deputy campaign manager of the Committee to Elect Jim Bowers.