Editor, The Progress:

I was disappointed to hear that the Pickens County Democratic Party was un-invited to co-sponsor a booth at the upcoming Azalea Festival. The party had remitted payment, representatives from the PCDP had spoken two or three times to various representatives of the festival, and everything was on go for celebration at the festival. Mr. Painter (PCDP) got a call from Russ Gantt who said the Democratic Party was not welcome at the festival, they would be returning the check.

This is understandable if there is a written rule stating that political parties are not welcome, but our own State Senator, Larry Martin is listed as a sponsor, and in spite of the fact that he’s a servant of the people, he’s also a Republican. If the purpose is restricting elements of society that may offend the sensitivities of others, then perhaps the Azalea Festival has seen it’s day.

There was an article in the Pickens Sentinel a few weeks ago mentioning the drop in sponsors for the festival, and how the economy was definitely curtailing involvement. What a shame to allow partisan politics to dampen the involvement, support, and celebration of those arbitrarily defined as unwanted.

I’m not sure exactly what type behavior they’re trying to control by handpicking the (much needed) sponsors for the Festival, but by allowing Sen. Larry Martin to sponsor and not allowing the Democratic Party, it appears their intent is obviously partisan. I’m frankly surprised at the Chamber and the festival planners.