Primary set to be a voice for voters

Republican Committeeman Marian Grays' recent letter was a deplorable mauling of Town Board primary candidate Mark Klyczek. Gray's depiction of Klyczek: "warped thinking," "without needed skills or proven ability to usurp a spot on the Republican line" and "the truth of his inadequate work record that demonstrates he is not qualified" doesn't exemplify a civil exchange of philosophy or ideas but rather, a baseless personal attack.

Truth be told, Mark Klyczek is an accomplished gentleman, CEO of a 140 employee nursing facility, a master's degree in administration. Klyczek has a distinguished record of selfless public service; former chairman of the Board for Erie County Youth Services, five-year service on the Depew Planning Board, 15 years a volunteer fireman, the last three in Amherst, five year Ambulance Corps volunteer, eucharistic minister, religious ed teacher, softball coach, devoted new father. My Republican values respect his achievement.

Primaries exist to ensure inclusion, preventing committees from usurping choice. In 2005, I collected signatures to enable Satish Mohan's primary run because like Mohan, I believe that inclusive politics, more voices and ideas best benefit Amherst. Mohan's bully-pulpit challenges appeared twice in Amherst Bee columns, inviting taxpayers of all stripes to take an active role in government and to run for elected office. Klyzcek responded.

Grays' simplistic conclusion that Mohan is "lying" if he had "no problem with the three endorsements" yet encourages new voices, is shortsighted. Mohan is decidedly, a Republican, but his pledge for positive change was not just to his party but to all Amherst residents.

On Sept. 18, Republican voters are rarely blessed to have many, highly talented candidates seeking office. Yikes! Progress in Western New York? Committeemen only recommend. They don't determine our future. Voters do. The status quo always votes on primary day. Taxpayers who snooze, will lose. Get in- volved. Vote.

Colleen Bogdan

Amherst