The first step in a two-part process to ensure local issues are championed by lawmakers in Tallahassee begins at 8 a.m. Sept. 12 at the Port St. Lucie Community Center during the 2008 Treasure Coast Coordination Coalition Legislative Summit.

Legislators, elected officials and other community leaders will be presented priority issues and voting recommendations, as determined by participants of the event. Many of those issues often find a powerful voice among the din of Tallahassee lawmaking.

The summit, and a follow-up breakfast - the second step in the process, have become an effective instrument in the local lawmaking process. Coalition members submit issues for discussion then meet during the summit to prioritize them.

Topics to be discussed during the summit include child protection, criminal and juvenile justice, developmental disability, early childhood education, education, the environment, the elderly, health insurance, mental health, housing and homelessness, transportation and workplace development.

"The Coalition unites the people and agencies of the Treasure Coast," said Triste Brooks, coalition vice president. "Nothing else compares to the work this coalition does to affect change in legislation and improve quality of life in the Treasure Coast."

Coalition leaders will present the prioritized issues to legislators during the invitation-only Breakfast of Champions, Sept. 19.

Legislators often reference the information given to them at this breakfast during session, Brooks said.

It's not too late to have your special issues heard. If you would like to become a member of the Treasure Coast Coordination Coalition, please visit www.tccc.info. Payment of the $75 annual membership fee gives you a vote in what issues are presented to legislators. New members also can register in person during the summit.

For more information, please call Triste Brooks at (772) 801-2230.