auditoriums decorated with many discussions and exchanges about how best to do all of this.  No one -- not once -- brought up political affiliation or motive.  Such a discussion was irrelevant to the success of the organization and its many "customers." We were Muslims, Christians, Jews, agnostics, Republicans, Democrats, Asians, Caucasions, African Americans, blue collar, white collar, extroverts, introverts, Mom's and Dad's, (and I'm sure even more labels that haven't popped into my mind), and we worked together without an iota of political consideration brought into the fun fray of doing what's best for the overall band community.  A community, by the way, that included Muslims, Christians, heterosexuals, gays, lesbians, Asians, Caucasions, gun owners, etc., etc., etc.  We worked for, and with, every single "constituent" without question. I bet many of you have had similar experiences.  Think classroom Halloween party.  Think school Diversity Fair.  Think PTO.  Think Athletic Association.  Think of any "Booster" du jour.  Think about those groups.  Now think what it would be like if you brought partisan politics into the mix.  What if political party was suddenly part of the consideration for choosing the chair of such groups?  Or the members of the committees?  Wouldn't you see ... divisiveness ? The truth is, if partisanship became a part of such community organizations the impact would be counterproductive and negative.  It serves no purpose and has no relevance. This is what happened to the management process of the City of Troy.  When partisanship became the key factor