A crowd of 60 or more people were in attendance at the Candidate’s Forum. It was a mixture of families, young adults and the more mature residents. Each candidate gave a short speech before questions were asked. Some of the questions were hard hitting but every one of the candidates showed their ability to think on their feet.
The candidates ranged from Joe Mesi, who’s running for the State Senate, to the crème de la crème of judges in Erie County, Judge John A. Michalek and Judge Michael Pietrusza.
Mesi showed a strong sense of maturity and self worth. He was very impressive. Judge Tracey A. Bannister, Esq. has been Judge Jerome Gorski’s Law Clerk for 13 years. She has receive a rating of “Outstanding” by the Erie County Bar Association. This is a rating rarely given and well deserved. Tracey is seeking a seat on our Supreme Court. She was the star of the night by answering some very tough questions with confidence.
Jerry Schad showed he was very much in tune with the problems in the 148th New York State Assembly District. His opponent, Jim Hayes, was in Town but didn’t show up. Maybe there is some truth to the rumor he wants to call it quits.
Other candidates also spoke.
Debbie Bucki, who’s running for Amherst Town Clerk, gave her list of credentials to be Town Clerk.
The moderator was Jeanne Vinal who has a golden touch in organizing forums. She has the respect of the candidates as well as the public.