Linda Crozier's claim that the Democrats have "patronage" jobs is grossly mistaken (letters 3/24). The Town of Hempstead Democratic Councilmembers each have one assistant and our half of the town board has two legislative aides, a part time counsel and a secretary. In order to function, the Democratic Councilmembers must have a staff. Ms. Crozier should get a better grasp of how a government runs. These positions are not patronage, they are jobs. Contrast this with the hundreds of patronage jobs on the Republican side. If you want to discuss Republican patronage, let's talk about those people who hand out certificates or play in the marching band on the county level. That is all they do and, yes that is patronage.

Ms. Crozier also claims I don't have the experience to do the job right. If being a student journalist for five years, running two organizations in college, working for the New York City Housing Authority, the Points of Light Foundation, the Girls Vacation Fund, and graduating from a top notch institution of higher learning with a degree in political science and urban studies, isn't experience, I don't know what is. I should not have to lend credence to such attacks, but I will because I work long hours and am fully committed to my job. My colleagues are happy with the job I am doing, and our entire Democratic caucus has received much praise for the excellent job we have done, in the three months we have been here. Since the Democratic councilmembers have been here they have initiated unprecedented changes such as night board meetings, public discussion at meetings and they have shown consideration to all citizens of this town.

We are different Ms. Crozier. Come down to visit us some time, and you'll see just how different we are.