Edmund Burke, in his Reflections on the Revolution in France, wrote: "He that wrestles with us strengthens our nerves and sharpens our skill. Our antagonist is our helper!"

The recently concluded Levittown School Board Election is a classic example of Burke's quotation, as a bitter group of adversaries composed primarily of the Levittown School Board; President, Levittown United Teachers Union (Local 1383) and others launched ad hominem attacks upon my reputation, character and integrity. Innuendos, half-truths and lies suddenly replaced the real campaign issues of incompetence and corruption surrounding the Levittown School Board and Central Office. Unfortunately, the real issues related to the education of our children were never discussed.

Levittown residents, fortunately, saw through their childish antics and I'm grateful for the support received from a wide array of residents. There's an old Irish expression which states: Strangers are friends that you haven't met before! I was amazed at the number of community supporters who came forward with the same loud and clear message: It's time for change! Their numbers consisted of friends and neighbors; young and old; liberals and conservatives; active and retired teachers; and numerous members of Levittown's PTA, disgusted with their own leadership, who volunteered countless hours of their time on my behalf. I am especially indebted to those volunteers who walked throughout the community with my literature, made phone calls or stood out in the rain on Election Day, for hours on end, on my behalf. Finally, I am most grateful to the Levittown voters who cast their ballots on my behalf. I am deeply humbled by your support and confidence in my candidacy. I pray that I will meet your expectations and continued support. Thank you.

James Ward