(Madison County, NY – Oct. 2015) The Madison County Democratic Committee heard County Judge candidate Marian Cerio as well as Oneida Mayoral candidate Leo Matzke on Oct.18 at their Annual Brunch, held for the first time at the Lakeview Restaurant in Oneida. Various speakers expressed concern that national politics may eclipse the importance of the Nov. 3 General Election this year. They emphasized the rare opportunity to elect a County Judge to a ten-year term and that, if elected, Cerio would be the first woman to hold the position.
Committee chair Michael Oot, of the Town of Stockbridge, opened the program by introducing the numerous elected officials who were present, including Senator David Valesky, Assemblyman William Magee, and Sheriff Alan Riley as well as Supervisors and Town Council members from around the County and visitors from Otsego County.
In introducing Marian Cerio as featured speaker, Oot said practicing law in county court where at least 65 percent of the cases are in the emotionally charged arena of Family Court is “not an easy job” and that Cerio offers incomparable experience to the position. Cerio herself emphasized the “three hats” that the County Judge wears, presiding over criminal, surrogate’s, and family courts. Recognizing the importance of all three, she noted that family court has the heaviest load of cases and that she loves its challenges. Cerio expressed confidence that she is prepared to be Madison County Judge, having appeared in this court 157 times in this year alone. A native of Madison County, she mentioned her 30-year history as a law guardian and in practicing law in various courts in the larger region.
Valesky reminded the committee members that even this “off year” election includes some “stark choices” between candidates and that qualifications matter in all elections. Matzke expressed concern about the low voter registration and turnout in US elections, urging efforts to reverse this trend.
Riley joined these concerns, but also reported on his department’s progress, e.g., in gaining additional rural deputies, in establishing customer friendly pistol permit procedures, and in NY’s efforts toward dealing with computer crimes against children.
Information about the membership and activities of the Committee can be found at www.madisonconydems.com.