Is anyone in charge?

As we approach November, that can only mean one thing -- election-time! I'm not going to get into a discussion of politics; but I did want to relay an interesting tale (or, actually, two tales).

A few months ago, before the primaries, I received a call from a survey-taker for Kathleen Rice, who was running for attorney general. At the end of the survey, I was asked if I would be able to volunteer any time to help Ms. Rice's campaign. In the past, I've almost always declined these offers, but I thought about it -- I *am* unemployed; and odds are there would be some great connections there -- and said, "sure, I'd consider it!"

I heard nothing for a week-or-so, and then, I got a phone call. The gentleman asked me what I was interested in doing, so I outlined my skillset -- communications, writing, etc. "Oh no," he said, "we don't need any help there -- we need help stuffing envelopes and making phone calls." I explained I was looking to make this a win-win possibility, and he asked me to send him my resume.

A few days later, I received a postcard in the mail for Ms. Rice's pre-primary day bash, held the Monday evening before the Primaries. Tickets were pricey (of course), but any volunteer who donated 10 hours of time, could attend for free. I immediately wrote the gentleman back again, and explained that, with that offer on the table, I would be happy to stuff envelopes (since it would lead to an opportunity to do something that would, in fact, better my chances of landing a position).

And, I waited. And waited. Sent another email, with no response. Finally, on the Monday (!) of the bash, I got a phone call from someone who said, "oh, you were passed on as someone who was interested in volunteering; would you be interested in handling duties in the office tonight, while the bash is going on?" I politely declined.

So, a few weeks ago, a walk-up surveytaker for Brian Foley (who's runing for NY State Senate), showed up at my door. I answered all the questions, and, at the end, I was asked, again, if I would be willing to volunteer (and also, if I would be willing to have a lawn sign on my property). Again, I expressed my interest in helping out, and I offered to have a lawn sign.

That was nearly three weeks ago. I haven't received any communication regarding my willingness to volunteer; and I have no lawn sign. I'm amazed that something as basic as providing a lawn sign seems beyond the capabilities of the "people in charge" at these campaigns.

If I was Mr. Foley, I'd take notice of the fact that Ms. Rice, ultimately, came up short in her campaign. I'm not saying that was entirely due to not using my skills to her advantage, but one never knows, does one?


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