"Downturn's over," an article on the Sept. 21 Business cover, clearly articulated the recession roller coaster. I appreciated the author's insight that even with slight positive trends it will take years for those who are struggling to recover. When it comes to basic needs, we know that the food shelf business is booming and that most local nonprofits hope they can keep up with the demand. In the western suburbs, we are working with families who are trying to survive job loss, underemployment, high rent and in some cases foreclosure; in fact, many spend 70 to 80 percent of their income on housing. They live on the edge of losing it all. Then the article turned to politics and the pending election, which was disappointing. When it comes to taking care of our neighbors, there is no room for being "left" or "right." The only answer is "correct." Let's come together to be certain we all survive the wild ride. CATHY MAES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
ICA FOODSHELF, MINNETONKA
