To the Editor:
As we near the November Election Day event, we all will certainly experience a barrage of letters of support and calls for endorsement by many citizens and friends of the candidates seeking the leadership positions within our communities.
This is democracy at work, allowing for a system that promotes the freedom of candidates to seek election, but most important the freedom of the citizens to determine the outcome through our constitutional right to vote. In the past weeks of primaries and continued efforts of candidacy, we have heard of many opinions regarding the abilities and capabilities of those who seek office.
Many of these accolades refer to past offices held, service honors achieved, awards and other previous pronouncements of superior qualifications. This is all good reading and helps us, as the voting public, gain knowledge about those who seek our vote.
Yet, in all of this election rhetoric, there is one consideration that is often not focused on, this being the most important, but probably the most difficult to identify.
It deals with an intangible. It is not an award or a plaque, a position posting or an honorarium. These accomplishments are far too easy to visualize and are presented by many.
What I am talking about is CHARACTER, that special human quality that defines our existence. This is what we should see when we consider Jack Graham for Town of Webb Justice.
I have known Jack for many decades and have seen his dedication to duty, witnessed examples of his compassion and have been observant of his respect for the opinions and rights of others. We have all taken note of his dedication to service, and team member attitude within his occupational and volunteer pursuits. You can count on Jack to be firm when needed, yet balanced in humor, always exhibiting the determination of a leader.
When the going is tough and the challenges seem overwhelming, you know that a successful resolution is within reach when you have Jack working with you. He is not there, standing just behind you when you need help, rather Jack exudes confidence as he stands by your side, working hard with you.
Jack also has a humble side, a side that demonstrates our own humanity, he is not afraid to listen and understand opinions different than his own.
I have seen him shake the hand of those who have presented alternate arguments and admit his faults when made aware (something we all have problems with but are less apt to admit).
There are many other attributes of Character that you will find in Jack, you do not have to look far to see it. His patriotism and pride for his community and country are deeply ingrained in his daily life.
Voters, as you exercise your freedom of choice, please consider the good Character of the candidates when you vote, as well as their accomplishments.
Though all certainly qualify for consideration, one stands tall in moral compass and Character, these qualities make Jack Graham the choice for Town of Webb Justice.
Gair S. Meres, Forestport
