Kafton works for the benefit of Jackson

Why would the Tri-Town News or anyone else in Jackson find it surprising that so many letters to the editor mention Mike Kafton's name? Why wouldn't they? ("Voters Have to Wait to Vent Frustration," Tri-Town News, July 12, 2007).

Mike, a lifelong resident of Jackson, has never shied away from criticizing what he perceives as arrogance or sheer incompetence on the part of local government.

He is one of the few consistent voices for the people of Jackson, whether in office or out, and people of this town have come to rely upon Mike Kafton because they know he is always there for them. Residents (and reporters, I might add) call Mike's office seeking help and information and oddly enough they get phone calls back in return. He always tries to help and if he can't, he'll find someone who can.

I've known Mike for a long time and watched his involvement grow from over 20 years ago when he and others walked arm in arm to prevent trucks carrying toxic waste from going to Colliers Mills, to today when he is trying to stop another kind of pollution.

Let's see, where to begin … Most recently Mike helped school kids distribute carbon monoxide detectors when one of their fellow students died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Mike helped raise money for breast cancer awareness and education. He co-sponsored a very successful fundraiser for a seriously ill Jackson child. Mike started the Meet the Mayor program years back, which is still in existence today.

He started the very successful Safe Trick-or-Treat program, which also is in existence today and provides a safe haven for our kids on Halloween. He was part of local government when Jackson received Tree City USA awards (that was before the gypsy moth infestation). He, along with several other Jackson residents, built Project Play-ground, giving our kids a beautiful place to play. He has run food drives to help those of our less fortunate residents. He is the potato masher almost every Thanksgiving at the senior center.

Have I said enough, because I can go on and on and on.

So cynical though you may be, Mike Kafton should be mentioned in every letter to the editor where praise is bestowed on those Jackson residents who go above and beyond. It's not only about an election, it's about heart, it's about courage, and it's about feeling so strongly about where you live and who you are that you want to reach out and connect to others.

Through very hard work and devotion, Mike Kafton has definitely made Jackson a better place for all of us. I will continue to mention his name and mention it as often as I can. I hope others will do the same.

Delores Mandola

Jackson