Letter to the Editor,
Please note that the League of Women Voters was simply asked to moderate the June 14, 2006 debate at the MidHudsonMedia studio in Hudson, NY. They did not sponsor the event, nor were they asked to do so.
Congressman Sweeney and all the declared candidates in the 20th district were invited to the debate. Either the Post Office or a staff member was remiss if the invitations were not delivered. Apparently my biggest mistake was not sending two lawyers letters that were certified return receipt. The original invitation was also sent as a press release to as many news sources in the 20th district as possible. There was no cost for the event associated with those releases out of respect to the business practices of Mid Hudson Media.
Candidates were asked of their interest in such a debate and also asked to share the cost of $3000. If Ms. Gillibrand or Mr. Sweeney responded before the May 22nd deadline for a decision, their voluntary contribution would not have exceeded $600. After that deadline to secure the use of the facility with down payment, all interested candidates would have been welcome to partake without any financial obligation. This was in respect to the League of Women Voters and their common practices. In addition, Morris Guller volunteered to pay the cost of any candidate who could not or did not wish to bear the cost.
Perhaps if Mr. Hyers or Ms. Gillibrand were doing business longer in Columbia County they might have respect that I have been doing so for almost 12 years. I resent the implication that my invitations were anything less then sincere or capable.
Sincerely,
Eric Sundwall
VP Old Kinderhook Integrated
Libertarian Candidate NY’s 20th Congressional District
(518) 754-1023