I thought I’d seen every aspect of sleazy politics until I read John Butler’s letter last Saturday (Sept. 8).

Stavros Mendros is a good man. I have worked and become good friends with him in the past few years.

I recall late nights with Mendros on Main Street or, after his daughter was born, on Holland Street working on petition drives. Mendros has never denied his commitment to his family, or spending time at Hogan Road also. But through it all, he was committed to the people of Ward 1. He works hard, studies all sides, is fair and carefully considers issues to make the people he represents proud.

As for Mendros’ addresses: many licenses show a P.O. Box, but those people do not live at the post office. Since he maintains an office at his mother’s house, and is there often, what is the harm of listing that number for people to reach him? It seems to me it only makes him more accessible.

Isn’t this what we want from our elected officials?

In all my years, I’ve never encountered anything as sleazy as trying to condemn a man for caring for his elderly mother. Mendros’ opponents should be ashamed of themselves. Having recently lost my own mother, I appreciated Mendros giving me time off last winter to spend time with her.

Mendros’ opponents would be better served dealing with their guilt by visiting their mother, rather than lashing out at Mendros. Their mother would likely appreciate it also.

Jay Taylor, Lewiston