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Voters must send a message to their state lawmakers

6/21/2004

I read with great sadness and frustration the front-page News article regarding the misdeeds, corruption and lack of effort toward reform evident among our state's representatives and governing leaders. What kind of message does this send to our youth?
I found it ironic that the story followed up on A2, opposite a tribute to one of America's greatest leaders. Whether you agreed with President Ronald Reagan's politics or not, he truly epitomized what America has lost: a sense of decency, humility and respect toward one another.

What a shame that, as hardworking New Yorkers, we have come to expect this from Albany and even condone it by our apathy and poor turnout at voting time. It's not right to complain at tax time if you are not there to pull the lever at voting time.

As voters, the time is long overdue for sending a clear and decisive message that these behaviors are no longer tolerable. Please contact your state legislators and put them on notice that we demand they stop wasting taxpayer dollars and putting themselves and special interests before what is best for their constituents. Please exercise your right to vote. It is a right that has been fought for and protected for over 200 years and should not be considered lightly. If we all get involved, we can make a difference.

Richard Smith

Amherst

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