Stephentown Democrats Endorse Aldie Goodermote

submitted by Bill Jennings
Friday night, September 18, an enthusiastic crowd of over 150 Democrats and guests, including many town Republicans, gathered at the Fire Hall to show their support for the Democratic slate of candidates.
“We were very pleased to see such a large and excited crowd,” said Andrew White, Chair of the Stephentown Democratic Committee. “Our turn-out this year was up 50% from two years ago. We are equally pleased to have so many of our Republican friends and neighbors join us as well. I think the people of Stephentown have decided to say enough is enough.”
The Democrats began by endorsing Cyril Grant for re-election as Town Justice.  Philip (PJ) Roder and Chris Demick were then endorsed for re-election as members of the Town Council.  This trio will again run on the theme of Integrity and Accountability.
Two offices were contested.  Incumbent Highway Superintendent Alden Goodermote defeated former Superintendent Neil Gardner by the overwhelming margin of 111 – 13.  Gardner, who will be the Republican candidate, was also seeking the Democratic endorsement. He was removed from office in October, 2008 following conviction on 24 felony counts of possession and filing forged documents in his role as Highway Superintendent.  Goodermote received sustained applause from the audience on three occasions.
For the position of Town Clerk, incumbent Patty Gallup easily defeated Lorri Parisi by a vote of 108 – 8.  Gallup will also be the Republican candidate.  Democrats endorsed another Republican candidate, incumbent Tax Collector Ruth Rieger, without opposition.
“This election is not about Republicans or Democrats. It is about what is best for the Town of Stephentown and the people who have the best interests of the town in mind. We are very pleased to have people of the quality of Aldie Goodermote, Patty Gallup, and Ruth Rieger join us on the Democratic ticket this year. The integrity they have shown in office over the past few years has been outstanding”, said Andrew White.
The Democrats did not name anyone to run for Town Supervisor against Larry Eckhardt. “We are not running anyone for Town Supervisor. We approached several potential candidates but, for a variety of reasons, ended up without anyone to run for the position, said White.
District 5 County Legislature candidates, Bob Melesky of Hoosick and Grafton Town Clerk Sue Putnam, also attended.  They were joined by County Court Judge Andy Ceresia, recently retired Family Court Judge Linda Griffin (a Stephentown resident) and former City of Troy Councilwoman Beth Walsh, who is the Democratic candidate to replace Judge Griffin.  All were well received and enjoyed the opportunity to meet with so many residents of Stephentown.