It is common these days to see Richard Smith going door to door in the neighborhoods of the Town of Lee. I recently had the opportunity to walk with him and witness the support first hand from members of this great town.It was on this evening that I was able to truly see what Richard Smith stands for.
We came upon a home where a gentleman and his wife were sitting on the front porch. As we approached, the man stood, and the wife hurried into her house. The man held up his hand and stated abruptly, "I know who you are...and I'm a Democrat." Without hesitation, Rich approached the gentleman and reached out his hand. The man took it and greeted him anyway. "Sir" Rich addressed him, "When I was in the United States Army, and was deployed overseas to fight for our country, I was not only fighting for the Republicans. And when I am elected for Supervisor, I will once again be fighting for every member of our community"
The man hesitated, looked Richard straight in the eye and said "Thank you. Thank you for your service." He then called to his wife, who joined us on the front porch where Rich talked to them. Told them about his plans for the future of our community. Told them that raising taxes was NOT on the agenda for the new Leadership. Rich spoke to them in a way that made them already feel involved in the community.
As I sat and listened to this exchange of questions and answers, I found a new level of respect for Richard. A man that I have known for 40 years. For the first time, I was actually seeing the vision that he has for the community. A genuine concern for it's members, and a devotion to do what is right for everyone in the Town of Lee. He spoke about a new "Team" of leadership. A team that is willing to work together. Richard was out there not just for himself, but for other members of the Republican party that are running in this election. The gentleman stated at this point..."Well, there is strength in numbers".
"There is strength in Community" Richard stated back to the man. "And it's by that strength that we can commit to change and commit to new Leadership.
The wife, who had remained silent until now spoke up and asked Richard, "So, do you think that Mr. Urtz has done a poor job in running this town?" Riches reply was this..."No Mam, Mr. Urtz has served our community well for the past 34 years. He has remained in office because the community has elected him to do so. That must say something about the job he has done. However, I feel that our Town needs renewed strength, and a new Vision. And I feel that with my background and qualifications, I can offer that."
The couple continued to voice their concerns over taxes, town services and other issues important to them. With every reply from Rich, you could see the change in the couple. The questions continued as it started to get dark. The gentleman apologized for taking up so much of our time, and offered a ride home. Rich declined stating he had a few more minutes left...and wasnt ready to give up the night. ( I on the other hand, was freezing and wanted a ride home!!!)
As we started walking down the driveway the man called out to Rich...."Son, you can count on our vote. Thank you for taking the time"
It was a good night.
Corri Lenaghen
Member of Friends to Elect Richard Smith
and Proud Sister in law.
