To the Editor:

While our national discourse has become toxic and divisive, that does not have to taint the grassroots communities.

What we are seeing in Berne this fall, with cross endorsements of candidates is refreshing. Common sense, caring for our whole community and a sense of responsibility for self-governance produced a slate of candidates suitable for the task of local governance. Bravo!

The strength of our country comes from the community level and the power flows upward, from the people and the unity of their messages. 

Hope has been given a chance, please take this opportunity to claim your pursuit of happiness, as we the people agreed so long ago.

Alexander “Sandy” Gordon

Guilderland