To the editor:
We are fortunate to have David Kelley and Leann Harple both running for the Vermont House from Albany, Craftsbury, Glover and Greensboro. I have known and have worked with both candidates. Additionally, I served in the Vermont Senate in the 1980’s and 1990’s and know something about what it takes to be an effective legislator.
I have served with David Kelley on the Hazen Union School Board and sat in on practices when he coached the Craftsbury Academy and Hazen Union debate team. His debaters have been stars in tournaments and his former debaters have gone on to practice law, become teachers, serve in the US military, etc.
Our country is as polarized today as it has been in my lifetime. Far too many political leaders have found ways to divide Americans against each other. I feel privileged to live in a state where Republicans and Democrats can work together to solve some of the thorny issues that divide too many Americans. I know with certainty that David is such a problem solver.
One of my sons, now a Colonel in the U.S. Army, participated in Project Harmony (now PH International, one of our nation’s largest exchange programs) founded by David Kelley 35 years ago. Founded locally, it is a school exchange program that takes students overseas, and brings international students to Vermont, increasing both international understanding and the knowledge base of all the participants.
I heard the candidates discuss the issues at a forum in Glover two weeks ago. David’s history, his advocacy for small schools, his dedication to affordability, his contributions as a public officer, his work in the State’s Attorney’s office and his background in the law have prepared him to “hit the ground running” in the Vermont House.
I know that David Kelley can make a difference. His focus on education and affordability, when coupled with his understanding of complex legal issues and ability to work with people across the political spectrum will make him an excellent representative for our corner of the Kingdom.
I’m proud to know him and pleased to be able to add my voice to so many others in urging voters to vote for David Kelley in the Democratic Primary on August 13.
Mike Metcalf
Greensboro
