Apr 28, 2003 3 min read

This letter is in response to a letter by Vicki Hartsek. At the end of the commissioners’ regular meeting Mr. Steve Hartsek, who is at least 6 feet 5 inches tall, walked toward me and asked to speak with me. I told him that I did not want to speak with him on two occasions because I knew he wanted to cause trouble right before the election, as he has done previously with me. As everyone says it takes a strong man to walk away, and I did on two occasions, but he continued to come at me. Finally I asked Mr. Hartsek what he wanted, and he said that I was spreading rumors about his family and if I continued that he would take care of me. I asked the man if he was threatening me, then he said he had one in his pocket.

This is not the first time that I have been threatened before an election, so without hesitation I immediately called over the security officers and they escorted him away from me.

I was not intimidated and I did everything in my power to avoid this man, but when he acted like he had a weapon in his pocket I did the right thing and took action.

What Vicki Hartsek neglected to tell your readers is that she and her husband are both political operatives, and they are also Democratic Committee people in North Union Township who support Vince Vicites for commissioner and Gary Brownfield for sheriff. I am supporting Mark Santore for sheriff and myself for county commissioner. I think Vicki Hartsek has a conflict of interest.

Also, there is no reason for me to spread rumors about the Hartsek family, Mr. Paul Hartsek who is a good friend of mine, was my English teacher at Laurel Highlands and Steve Hartsek’s sons have catered the food at many of my events over the years including my annual St. Patrick’s Day event which we held this March. I would recommend Hartsek Catering to anyone and everyone.

Sean M. Cavanagh

Fayette County Commissioner

Battle of negativity

I guess it’s time for the battle of words and negative campaigns and those seeking to be in power by blasting those who have been or are in power. Isn’t it really about – “I want the power”?

Even now surprisingly is that those who are new, for the most part, are getting on the power-seekers bandwagon instead of running as candidates on their own qualifications and ideas.

I see a lot of competition for Republican commissioner, which is encouraging. Candidates beware, David Lohr is back, and in my personal experience, his word to me was not truthful.

There is also the issue of the reassessment. I don’t see the incumbents using that as a campaign issue. I wonder why?

Those who did something to your liking deserve your vote, those who didn’t, don’t. Please check the qualifications of the candidates and consider those that can influence real estate taxation changes, obtain grant money (state and federal) and use positive not negative measures to secure their election as well as benefits to Fayette County.

Robert E. Jones

Uniontown