Former mayor Logan urges vote for Independent candidate Rinker

The best chance for effective local government is to elect people who are successful in their personal careers, with the expectation that the same traits that made them do well in the real world will give them the best chance of moving the town forward. Unfortunately, most who fit that bill just don’t have time for town government. When a high caliber, accomplished person expresses an interest we should take them up on their offer. I speak of Sally Rinker, a long-term resident and admired builder in Vernon. My first exposure to Sally was when she donated an easement to the town for our bike path project. In addition to starting and growing a successful local business, Sally has volunteered on numerous Vernon service organizations and committees. So you would think that this proven, respected Republican Vernon businesswoman would be courted by the local Republican Party? Well, the same traits of independence and strength that made her a winner in her business were apparently a threat to the local Republican Party kingmakers. Instead of putting Rinker on the Republican ticket, they recruited two warm bodies who have no prior involvement in the town. I respect Harry (and his wife, Cherie) Shortway for the leadership he has shown, along with Randy Mills, in developing lacrosse in Vernon. But his two running mates? These two guys don’t even have the courage to debate Sally. Fortunately, she is a fighter and, while still a Republican, put herself on the ballot as an Independent candidate for Vernon Town Council. The local Republican Party takes votes for granted. They figure they’ll just put out their normal petty attack flyer, full of misrepresentations, the weekend before the election, and count on Vernon’s voters to follow the Republican Party line. Don’t accept mediocrity on the Vernon Town Council. You can choose a strong achiever who will be an independent, positive force in solving Vernon’s problems. On Tuesday, Nov. 3, be a thinker, vote for Rinker. John P. Logan Vernon Mayor 2000-03