Local connections not a political qualification

To The Eagle:

Thanks to the Grays River Grange for another spirited and well-attended candidate's forum held Tuesday night. Unlike many years, several incumbents this year have opposing candidates vying for their positions. The forums are a good way of getting to know those who are new to the political arena.

I have to say I was disappointed though, that nearly all of the candidates present spent too much of their precious little time on the floor talking about such things as their family tree connections to the logging and/or fishing industry, or at length about where they were born. "Raised locally" may be an important criterion for the purchase of fruits and vegetables, but it doesn't tell me anything about whether a person will represent my views in the courthouse or legislature. Ironically, fewer than a handful of those speaking had to admit to coming from "somewhere else."

There will be another candidate's forum in the fall prior to the November election. The primary will eliminate many who are nevertheless sincere in their hope to win a place on the ballot. There will be fewer speakers, and perhaps each will thus have a little more time to let us know what they are thinking. I plan to attend, and hope to hear fewer pedigrees and more ideas, maybe even more about their visions for the future of our county, state, and country.

Thea Pyle

Grays River