Editor, The Spotlight:
I have been a Democratic committeeman in the Town of Bethlehem since 1987. I have seen many “reform” Democrats come and go on the town committee. Some leave because they are consumed with just one issue, and don’t have long-term interest. Many leave because they don’t care for the grunt work of politics — carrying petitions door to door, making phone calls, raising money and, back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, taking a beating from the Republicans.
But those of us who have persevered know this — the Democratic Party in the Town of Bethlehem is open to all who have an interest in doing the work. Don’t tell me the door isn’t open. I’ve been at the meetings, and dissent is not suppressed — it’s part of the fabric of the Democratic Party.
Indeed, in 2009, Sam Messina showed up and asked to be the Democratic candidate for a second term on the Town Board. I nominated him, and he got some votes. I’m still a member in good standing.
2012 is a general election year and even a Town Board race. I personally welcome anyone who wants to break a sweat and carry our message and our literature door to door. I’ve been doing it for 25 years, and I hope to match our finest member — World War II vet Frank Murphy — and do it for 25 more.
Jim Kelly
Delmar
