Carolyn Wescott and Georgette Beerbower Hiles are both hoping to be elected to the Hospital District 1 seat.

Ballots will be mailed by Oct. 20. Polls close on Nov. 7.

Tell me about yourself (profession and education):

Wescott: Public and private schools during elementary school then I was home schooled 6th – 11th grade because of our remote location. I only attended high school for one year, when I moved to Elma in 1987. In 2006-2007 I attended the International Academy of Reflexology and Meridian Therapy where I received my certification to be a Reflexologist. I have operated a Reflexology business for 10 years.

Beerbower Hiles: Retired from Hospital District No 1 with 24 years experience in the business side of the hospital district. I worked for Olympic Nation Forest as a purchasing agent prior to working for the Hospital District. My education is high school, some college, and military.

How can Hospital District 1 attain its goal of making Elma the healthiest community in America?

Wescott: By continuing to ask that question. This is not a one-answer question but rather a goal that will take years of asking questions, wise perception of the needs of the community, setting an example, focused with determination and continued action.

Beerbower Hiles: This can be accomplished by continuing with community education classes and commitment to our community members to provide access to care with quality and compassion.

What role do you see the wellness center fulfilling within Hospital District 1?

Wescott: The wellness center is bringing in quality specialists to provide primary care, mental health, rehabilitation, and other therapies that are insufficient in our district as well as in other close by. This will not only provide the much needed access to health care but also continued education.

Beerbower Hiles: Our wellness center will provide more providers and education opportunity to our community such as healthy cooking, and activity.

Do you have any goals you feel the hospital district should aim for?

Wescott: I am impressed with the district’s focus on “quality” care and the effort to put “health” back into health care. Bringing in a natuarpathic doctor into the hospital was an “unprecedented” and progressive move. My hope or goal would be that the district would continue to reach beyond the conventional model of health care to enhance the healing and well being of every patient and community member. You don’t have to be “sick” to get “better.”

Beerbower Hiles: To continue with community education and involvement and to be able to recruit and retain the best providers and support staff for our community.