Successful pitch

TO THE EDITOR: On July 10, 11 and 12 the 47th Annual Au Sable Forks Men's Fast Pitch Tournament was held at the Billy Mitchell Field. Ten teams from the US and Canada played in this event. The 2009 champions were Waterdown Hammer from Ontario, Can. The success of this tournament lays in the hands of our dedicated tournament committee. Full meetings will resume in Feb. 2010.

To all those merchants, and individuals who place ads for our program, and to many of the same merchants that provide services or items at no cost to the tournament, firefighters of Au Sable Forks, Supervisor of the Town of Jay, Randy Douglas, Supt. Chris Garrow and the Township of Jay Public Works Department, NYSDOCS Moriah Shock Camp, Supt. Tim Sheehan, for providing staff and crews to work the field/grounds and Clinton Correctional Facility, Supt. Dale Artus for allowing their Vocational School Print Shop under the supervision of Instructor Skip James, and inmates to assist in the final print/production of our tournament program, Jamie and Shirley Atkins of Northline Utilities for their crews, time and equipment in the installation of the new lights for the outfield and any other tasks asked of them, Bob Goetz and Plattsburgh Press-Republican sports department and Channel 5 WPTZ sports, I say "Thank you."

To the spectators, without you there is no tournament. Every year this event brings friends and families together. It has become an annual three-day celebration of family, friends, and those who just enjoy the sport, I say "Thank you." To all that give/support/attend/volunteer, because of your dedication to this event the 47th Tournament Committee was pleased to present monies to a local family that suffer from a serious disease. The Tournament Committee is dedicated in raising funds for families that are experiencing serious medical crisis. We are happy and honored to assist this family.

In closing, thanks again for making this tournament a huge success and we look forward to seeing you again in on July 9, 10 and 11 of 2010.

Tom A. O'Neill

Director

AuSable Fast Pitch Tournament

Testing to confirm

TO THE EDITOR: The idea of the county voting to give supervisors the ability to send staffers home on an involuntary basis if they have symptoms of H1N1 flu is poorly thought-out knee-jerk reaction to the media hype surrounding "H1N1." I can appreciate that general thought being pursued: to reduce the spread of the flu. If this type of legislation is being passed, it should focus on sending any sick employee(s) home, not just those who are suspected of having a specific type of flu that even hospitals require testing to diagnose. To expect supervisors to be able to decide who has H1N1, and who has any one of the other seasonal influenza strains, is foolish. If the language of the legislation is specific to H1N1, I don't see how it can ever be enforced without medical testing to confirm the specific strain.

Carl LaShomb

Ellenburg

Help is available

TO THE EDITOR: If our founding fathers could have looked into the future of our nation, they would have been weeping. They gave their lives and fortunes for the right to live free from oppression and in safety.

Presently, a segment of American citizens are in a dangerous environment, in the womb. So many young women are unknowingly led into believing that the tiny child they carry is simply a mass of cells and receive offers of assistance with an abortion. It is falsely called a "procedure" which is in reality always fatal to the pre-born child. It is very painful and unpleasant for the mother.

Abortions are agonizing for the baby. If anyone doubts the realities of abortions, one should see the film, "The Silent Scream." This film is a true abortion as it is happening, step by step. In it, the struggling baby tries in vain to get away from a sharp curette.

Video is available from www.all.org. Mothers/families. Help is out there for you.

Rose Moore

Champlain

Running for supervisor

To the Editor: I am running for Essex town supervisor. Your vote for me in the Nov. 3 election means that together we can make Essex a healthy, affordable and increasingly vibrant community.

For many years I have been an advocate for a solution to the polluting of Lake Champlain, our current source for drinking water. I have become deeply involved in the Essex town water and sewer projects, and for more than a year have attended and participated in many Essex TTown Board meetings dedicated to the future upgrading of our water and sewage systems. Initially, I was concerned about our public health, but I discovered that additional town-wide matters also need the urgent attention of a dynamic town supervisor.

As your Essex town supervisor, I pledge to:

Provide fiscal accountability and transparency.

Assure completion of municipal projects in a timely manner.

Offer clear, straightforward and frequent communication to all town residents.

Welcome active participation in town government.

Represent the whole community.

I promise to manage day-to-day affairs with the same discipline that I brought to a 13-year career in banking, and with the community sensibility gained over 16 years as an Essex resident, 10 years of which I owned and operated a successful, local business called Natural Goods and Finery. Currently, I serve as president of the Adirondack Art Association. This consistent community engagement leads me to the commitment of supporting and encouraging the things that make Essex remarkable: our year-round residents; young families; small businesses; agriculture; historic preservation; local organizations; and, diverse recreational activities.

Thank you for taking the time to learn why I am running for Essex town supervisor. I look forward to talking with people personally about goals, hopes and concerns for our community. Please e-mail me at sboisen@willex.com or call me at 963-8109.

Sharon M. Boisen

Essex

Cares about people, job

To the Editor: Since DA Garcia has practiced law in Essex County, I have had direct involvement with her professionally — on both sides.

When she was an assigned counsel she fought hard for her client despite being "only an assigned counsel." Frankly, I hated her at that point because she was relentless in her pursuit of justice! You see, I was on the other side. However, what I can appreciate now is that she tried to get her client help. She did not try to get her client out of any responsibility.

My involvement with her as DA has been nothing but positive. She truly cares about my family and I, even though she has nothing to gain. I live in Washington County and can't even vote for her. She has kept us informed about everything that has gone on. Ms. Garcia has continually educated us about the legal process we were involved in. To this day, DA Garcia remembers us wherever and whenever we run into each other.

Working in a public school, I know how important young people are and I fight to help them be the best they can be. For the first time I can remember, a DA actually is trying to help keep people alive by sending messages against underage drinking and drunk driving. In a town where there has been so much death in the past two years, I am shocked to see that people would not vote for a person who is doing what she can to help families in Ticonderoga, and surrounding areas, keep their families whole! I am tired of people dying from avoidable circumstances, like drunk driving and underage drinking. Aren't you?

People will always put their spin on statistics, but I cannot stay silent any more — Julie Garcia cares about people and the job she does!

Jodi Drinkwine

Putnam Station

Return to normalcy

TO THE EDITOR: The Republican Party and the electoral process in Essex County is in complete disarray. A cabal within the Republican Party is attempting to dictate who runs for political office. The days of back-room politics and soliciting candidates for office must end.

The recent actions of this cabal within the party toward the Essex County district attorney was despicable. A united effort of all voters regardless of political affiliation will result in the re-election of Ms. Garcia and a return to normalcy of the political process in Essex County.

Ms. Garcia needs your vote, and Essex County needs Ms. Garcia. Vote.

Antonio Lemza

Port Henry

Commitment to town

TO THE EDITOR: I am planning to vote for Sam Dyer for highway superintendent for the Town of Beekmantown. In the many years I have known him, I have been very impressed with his sincere commitment to Beekmantown, his tremendous willingness to work hard, and his ability to run a large, successful farm.

Also, I admire his honesty, good humor, as well as his ability to relate very well to anyone he meets.

I must admit that I do not know too much about running the Highway Department. I do know, however, that I want my road plowed in the winter, and repair work done to roads in Beekmantown.

I have confidence in Sam Dyer's ability to get the job done. I am voting for him, and I urge you to do the same. You will not be disappointed because Sam Dyer can do the job. Thank you.

Carole Klein

Plattsburgh

Listener, speaker

TO THE EDITOR: This letter is in support of Dennis Robert of Rouses Point. Dennis is running for Champlain Town Council in the upcoming elections. Dennis is a well respected lifetime resident of Rouses Point. He has volunteered with the Rouses Point Fire Department for many, many years. He has also been elected to several positions within the Fire Department.

Dennis is a lifetime employee at Wyeth in Rouses Point. Starting on a production line years ago, Dennis now holds a manager's position within the company. Dennis is a "go-getter" as well as a good listener and speaker.

I encourage you to vote for Dennis Robert for Champlain Town Council.

Harry Wing

Rouses Point

Honesty, loyalty

TO THE EDITOR: Kathy Flynn has held the office of Peru town clerk and tax collector for the past seven years. She is seeking re-election in November, and it is our sincere hope that she is re-seated for the benefit of our town.

When thinking about Kathy, three words come to mind; dedication, honesty, and loyalty. From the time that Kathy took office she has approached all of her many job roles and responsibilities with unmatched tenacity and an unequaled work ethic. The position hours are posted as 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. However, it is not uncommon to see her working on a Sunday morning at 6 a.m. or leaving her family at odd hours of the night and weekend to accommodate a young couple wishing to obtain a marriage license.

Kathy has time and again risen above the turmoil that has plagued our town government to perform her job duties with honesty, integrity and courage. Being a life-long resident of Peru, Kathy and her family are deeply involved with the school, town athletic programs and community events. You would be hard-pressed to attend an event in Peru and not see a Flynn!

It is our honor to support Kathy in her re-election campaign and we hope that you will join us on Nov. 3 as we cast our ballot to re-elect Kathy Flynn as the Peru town clerk and tax collector.

Kelly and Matt Crowley

Peru

Blatant disrespect

TO THE EDITOR: In regard to Thursday's article in the Speakout about hunters, you're a little dramatic, don't you think? Where do you get off calling me an arrogant hunter, would you like it if I called you an arrogant coward? It's blatant disrespect for you to hold me responsible for the acts of vandals and other menaces to society, but be that as it may, I like to think of myself more as a conservationist.

We as hunters keep the deer population in control and you and your family safer on the roads, that is if you have a vehicle. Your letter is absolutely facetious and I think you should crawl back under whatever rock you cower below.

Randy CAron

Redford

Dedication, efficiency

TO THE EDITOR: I am writing this to encourage Peru residents to re-elect Kathy Flynn to the office of town clerk. She has always performed her job with dedication and efficiency. Her hours are determined by the board.

Not only is she in her office from 9 to 12 every day but she must attend and write up every meeting of the board — nights, weekends, etc. She does all of this with a friendly, helpful, accommodating attitude even though she is the lowest paid town clerk in the county plus she does not take the medical benefits which save the taxpayers quite a bit of money. We are lucky to have her!

LorrI Wetzel

Peru

Thief sought

TO THE EDITOR: I would like to thank the thief who took it upon himself to trespass onto private property and take my $750 Martin compound bow from my ground blind. This occurred sometime between Oct. 5-7.

Leaving a weapon such as this in the woods is not a common practice of mine, but I have no choice. I broke my leg in two places back in August and I cannot carry all my equipment along with crutches to where I sit. I have not worked for 2-plus months so at least this gave me something do.

Thanks for ruining my season. Once again I would like to thank the low life, piece of garbage who took my bow. As if life hasn't been hard enough the last 10 weeks. Anyone with any information please call 643-8664 or 335-1435.

Thomas Neligan

Malone

Energy, experience

TO THE EDITOR: Marty Mannix has the experience and the energy to be an excellent Clinton County treasurer. Marty has served as past treasurer of the North Country Mission of Hope and the Lake Forest Senior Retirement Community. He has been a member of 11 community organizations and is currently chairperson of the Clinton County Democratic Party.

He has shown the ability to recognize problems and take action to resolve them in favor of the taxpayers, i.e., as a town of Plattsburgh counselor, recognized that the town was due a share of sales revenue when the county claimed otherwise. This resulted in allowing the Town of Plattsburgh to maintain a zero general town tax. This is only one example of Marty's responsive and assertive action to get results that benefited the public.

Marty's background and experience qualifies him for the office of Clinton County treasurer.

Ann and Ron Hobson

Mooers

Absolutely qualified

TO THE EDITOR: To All Voters of Essex County:

I am writing to request your support of Kristy Sprague for Essex County district attorney on

Election Day, Nov. 3, 2009.

I have met with Kristy and read many articles and letters with reference to her abilities and qualifications. It is without a doubt that she is absolutely qualified to serve as Essex County district attorney.

The letters supporting Kristy Sprague that have appeared in the media including that of Dominic J. Viscardi of Ticonderoga, say it very well. She is a hard-working person and very well qualified for district attorney.

She has stated in her letter of Sept. 7, 2009, that she will not only be an administrator of the office, but a "hands on" prosecutor — that she will be — believe me!

I served the Town of North Elba for 27 years as town clerk, as supervisor of the town for 14 years and as supervisor I served on the Essex County Board of Supervisors. I feel that I represented you and your concerns to the best of my ability. Based on my knowledge and experience, I am asking for your support of Kristy Sprague as district attorney for Essex County. Thank You.

Matthew B. Clark

Lake Placid

Editorial opinionated

TO THE EDITOR: "Penn Energy project in Beekmantown should be approved." This was the title of an unsigned editorial which was featured in the Press-Republican. This opinionated editorial represents irresponsible and biased journalism relating to a controversial topic without researching the facts. The article claimed that compared to 400 foot turbines of other projects, the Beekmantown turbines would be a more tolerable 263 feet tall. In actuality, the turbine height has not yet been determined, but the initial estimates were 462.6 feet tall.

This is just one example of the many "misstatements" which were published in this editorial, and one which would influence public perception of the project.

News media in neighboring counties already hosting these wind projects give a very clear view of the reliability of wind company "promises." There are issues with noise, loss of property value, and outstanding liens/taxes (even in Clinton County) which should be given consideration by our local media.

For those who believe any "promised" wind company tax benefit is worth someone else's suffering, you may want to look at what is currently happening to the community hosting the Maple Ridge Wind Farm. The taxpayers will actually be paying more money to make up the difference in the town budget which was planned around lost "promised" wind company tax incentives.

These Web sites offer more info: www,wwnytv.com/news/local/55443957.html. www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20090529/NEWS03/305299975/O/NEWS

It is unacceptable to force people already living in these areas to tolerate these conditions for an industry which is proven unreliable. Considering the questionable circumstances surrounding the Beekmantown Wind Farm, I would encourage every homeowner to look carefully and cautiously at the risks associated with this industry before your own backyard is targeted.

Joanne Hudson

Dannemora

Unmatched dedication

TO THE EDITOR: I have had the opportunity to know Joe Giroux and his family for many years. Not only is Joe a dedicated husband, parent, grandparent, he is also active in his community. Joe's commitment to family can be seen in his current job as county treasurer. He works with delinquent taxpayers (families) to keep them in their homes.

Joe's dedication to the people of Clinton County is unmatched. Join me in supporting Joe for four more years as Clinton County treasurer.

Nicole Walker

Plattsburgh

Ethics, experience

TO THE EDITOR: As Election Day nears, I feel it is important for me to show my support for Joe Giroux. Joe has been the treasurer for the past three years and has done an outstanding job. He has had some very challenging years. It is not easy to follow a leader like Janet Duprey, but he has done it with his kindness, his ability to talk to the taxpayers in difficult times and his willingness to listen to the people of Clinton County.

Joe has the experience, the dedication and the ethics that I want the treasurer to have. He was a legislature for 11 years and worked closely with the treasurer's office as the chairman of the finance committee. He also has ran a successful business for over 40 years, in these times that is an accomplishment in itself.

During the next few years times are not going to be easy for any of us and I want someone you already know the job, is doing the job and will continue to do the job as our county treasurer.

Joe, you have my vote on Nov. 3.

Deborah Walker

Plattsburgh

Referendum on Obama

TO THE EDITOR: I endorse Bill Owens for Congress. He supports President Obama. President Obama supports Bill Owens. This is good enough for me.

This special election is our very own North Country referendum on President Obama. The whole nation is watching this special, mid-term, congressional race. I believe that the president has been doing a great job, in a bipartisan manner, to dig us out from the economic hole dug by the previous administration. The president has been trying to pass a health bill to reform the broken, inefficient and expensive system we have now. The president has been trying to rebuild the Army and effectively protect us after eight years of disastrous adventures.

The president has chosen our own John McHugh as secretary of Army. We need to continue this type of bipartisan statesmanship and show America the we support the president. The best way to do this is vote for the common-sense policies supported by both Bill Owens and President Obama. Let's put aside partisan quibbles and do what we need to do to get America back on track. We need someone like Bill Owens who transcends political parties and who is the best person for the job.

Mark Schneider

Plattsburgh

Birth was special

TO THE EDITOR: My husband and I would like to say thank you to the wonderful staff at CVPH for making the experience of our son's birth a special one.

During our stay through labor, delivery and recovery we were treated with kindness and respect. We went through many shifts during our five-day stay and the nurses on each shift were extremely supportive and attentive to our needs. Each one had a piece of advice or a technique that would help us along our new path of parenthood. This is our first child and his birth will always be a very special memory.

We want to thank the staff at CVPH for helping to make it a happy one. Thank you to everyone who cared for us. We greatly appreciated every moment you spent with us and Gabriel. He is doing so well, and we are blessed to have him.

Katie Jennett-Caska

Keith and Gabriel

Plattsburgh

Direct line to Capitol

TO THE EDITOR: Just imagine our local officials having a direct line to Washington D.C. Imagine our congressman being from Plattsburgh, being one of us.

Imagine further that the congressman from our 23rd Congressional District, our representative, actually knows powerful people who will listen to him, that he actually will be able to get things done for us. That we will no longer have to listen to the whine of do-little minority congressmen who have taken the 23rd for granted for 150 years. They've tried to make it sound as if majority rule is somehow anti-democratic.

Finally, we North Country folks actually have a real candidate who can serve our needs. Bill Owens is that choice. Bill has worked hard for our community for 25 years. He's helped bring jobs to Clinton County. He understands the link between education and economic opportunities. He's worked pro bono for our colleges and has shared his ideas for community development before he's been asked, sometimes without getting credit.

We need Bill Owens in Washington. It's time to send him to Congress. Please use your vote to help elect Bill Owens on Nov. 3.

While you're in the voting booth, I hope you will consider the other candidates on the line with Bill. Martin Mannix is an especially good choice as Clinton County treasurer. Marty is a well informed, dynamic and caring citizen with years of experience in government finance. I can think of no one I'd trust more with our money.

Jennifer Colver

Plattsburgh

Experience, education

TO THE EDITOR: My name is Stacie Winchell. I want to be the next Beekmantown town clerk/tax collector, and I am qualified to do the job. My experience, education, and credentials, will serve the residents of Beekmantown well.

I currently work for the Town of Beekmantown. My duties include being deputy town clerk, the account/payroll clerk and the assistant to the budget officer. I have an associates degree in applied science with a major in human services. I am skilled in many computer programs, have passed several New York State Civil Service exams. I am also a notary public.

I have lived in Clinton County all of my life and in Beekmantown with my husband and two children for over 10 years. I am involved in many community groups and volunteer organizations, including the Beekmantown Youth Commission, the technology/web committee and the Beekmantown Food Shelf. I also volunteer seasonally for the Clinton County Christmas Bureau.

For the last 10 months I have been working alongside the current town clerk/tax collector as her deputy to learn the duties and responsibilities that go along with the title "town clerk/tax collector." I also have learned that this job is not one to be taken lightly. It will take experience, education, hard work, and dedication, all of which I possess. I am endorsed by the Beekmantown Democratic Committee and the Working Families Party of Clinton County. Please vote for me on Nov. 3. I appreciate your support.

Stacie L. Winchell

West Chazy

Honest, fair

TO THE EDITOR: It's always a pleasure to see honest, hard-working people willing to get involved in service to the public through elective office. Having visited the voting booth a few times over the years, I've made good choices and a few bad ones too, some were difficult choices, some easy .

It seems that Dennis Reid is running for town justice. For me, that would be one of the easier choices I could make in the upcoming election. I know Dennis well, but lest anyone think that I'm writing simply because Dennis is a friend, let me say this: I've also known Dennis as a police sergeant when I was on the Plattsburgh City Council, and I'm familiar with the work Dennis did while he was a city employee.

Dennis is one of the most honest, fair-but-firm individuals that could be elected to the office of town justice. His record is sterling, he works superbly well with people from all walks of life, and is in no way one of the 'good 'ole boys' who would choose an easy way out over good judgment and fair play. The last thing any township needs is more crime, or a town justice who refuses to perform the job he was elected to do in a fair, honest fashion.

I would encourage voters to ask anyone who knows Dennis about his record, his sense of duty, his ambition, etc. I personally stand behind Dennis, and assure you there will be no surprises from this man. He is exactly who he says he is, and will do exactly as he says he will. Rest assured and be comfortable with your vote. Please help elect Dennis Reid Peru town justice.

Joe Lombardoni

Greenville, S.C.

Extremely talented

TO THE EDITOR: Since 1988, I have had the distinct honor and pleasure to serve all the residents of the Town of Beekmantown as their town clerk/tax collector. I have loved my job from day one and meeting so many of you over the past 22 years. I've enjoyed many a chat, with you, as we either licensed your dog, got you that hunting or fishing license, a marriage license and even when "taxes" were due.

I thank you for allowing me to be your town clerk/tax collector for all these years. But there comes a time to retire, and that time for me is this year. I will not run for re-election as your town clerk. With this said, please let me tell you of a young woman who has my support to be the next town clerk/tax collector for the Town of Beekmantown, Stacie Winchell.

In 2008 the Town of Beekmantown hired Stacie to become our account clerk in the business office. She has an associate degree from Clinton Community College. Her duties have her doing the payroll, processing bills for payment and processing receipts for deposit, etc. She also is the one you speak with to rent the Town Hall for functions, complete Christmas Bureau applications and food shelf applications. Stacie has, over the last nine months, worked closely with our Web site consultant to get our town Web site going. She is very computer oriented. I find her to be an extremely talented young woman.

Since January, Stacie has been one of my deputies. Stacie has shown me, during this time, that she is very capable of handling the duties, this office requires, in a very competent and professional manor. Please join me on Tuesday, Nov. 3 in voting for Stacie Winchell as the Town of Beekmantown's next town clerk/tax collector.

Marie A. Jolicoeur

Town of Beekmantown

Town clerk/tax collector

Making a difference

TO THE EDITOR: There are many organizations in our community that do wonderful work, don't receive recognition for their work and are not well known. One such organization is the North Country Cancer Fund. It consists of a group of dedicated individuals, committed to easing the financial hardship that can come with a cancer diagnosis. They rely on funds raised from private contributions and their annual fund-raising golf tournament. All money donated goes 100 percent to helping individuals and families with expenses such as ferry tickets, doctor and prescription co-pays, travel, meals, etc.

If you are looking for a place to donate money that will truly make a difference, consider the North Country Cancer Fund. All money received is distributed to North Country people in need. It is truly an amazing organization. I know because I was a recipient. Donations can be mailed to: The North Country Cancer Fund, 15 Lafayette St., Plattsburgh, N.Y. 12901.

Gordon Hazel

Plattsburgh

Not just a spoiler

TO THE EDITOR: First let me state that I have always felt that the Press-Republican presented a "fair and balanced" coverage of the news.

Please refer to the editorial in this morning's (Oct. 11) Press-Republican regarding no-show by Bill Owens. I happen to agree with the premise of this piece and feel it was professionally done.

Having said that, however, I wish to take exception to referring to Doug Hoffman as a "spoiler" in the election. I note that the author did not refer to Scozzafava as the "AFL-CIO/pro-gay candidate" or to Owens as the "Obama"/ Pelosi" candidate, even though both characterizations are obviously accurate. I know that it was an editorial and the author was expressing an opinion. After all it is an editorial, and I support that process.

Recall what was said by the Democrats in Minnesota about Jessie Ventura, "A vote for Ventura is a vote for the Republicans." Not to be outdone, the Republican's mantra was, "A vote for Ventura is a vote for the Democrats."

Both parties used these arguments and had a great time before the election. They were both partially correct but in the final analysis a vote for Ventura was a vote for the people. Who would have believed that?

I know that there is a time window for submission of opinions. I understand and support that. However, save this note as we just might see a repeat of Minnesota. It will make interesting reading with your morning coffee on the 4th of November. Sorry if the Danish tastes of "crow."

Vote for Doug " The Spoiler" on the 3rd.

Joe Spadaro

Saranac Lake

What's best for park

TO THE EDITOR: One of the best pieces of news we have had in the past few months was the fact that the Residents Committee for the Protection of the Adirondacks (RCPA) and the Association for the Protection of the Adirondacks were facing hard financial times. Now we have a Jurassic Park in the Adirondacks: they are trying to combine to save themselves and have been hatched as a newly minted organization called Protect the Adirondacks. Now these groups know exactly how most hardworking Adirondackers feel trying to make a living here within the "park" without jobs.

This past week many of us have received fundraising letters from the group so they can continue to hang us with our own rope. This new organization, composed of the same old cast of characters, wants us to contribute money for the following purpose:

"For influencing the Adirondack Park Agency to disapprove of haphazard development (such as the Adirondack Club and Resort) which fragments the privately owned forests of the Adirondacks." How wonderful that they would want to protect us from ourselves. We think that us Adirondackers are smart enough to make our own decisions about what is best for us. When will these groups and these single minded individuals who think in a like-minded vein realize this? We do, however, have a need for elected officials who will stand up to these groups and do what is best for the majority represented.

A few weeks ago Dave Gibson, their full-time, paid executive director and full-time lobbyist, wrote a piece in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise of Saranac Lake that he was in favor of "appropriate development." It appears that what is "appropriate" is what he and his friends deem appropriate. Translation: Drop dead Tupper Lake and the Tri-Lakes area. Does Dave Gibson, and others like him, think that they know more than the APA and DEC?

We would humbly suggest that all fair-minded people in the Tri-Lakes disregard the hopes, dreams and wishes of Protect the Adirondacks just as they have disregarded us and our wishes for so long. They have refused to contribute in any positive way to our livelihoods such as job creation, job growth along with any sustainable developmental growth as well as any increase in our tax bases which, by the way, saves us all money.

Ben Peets

Rickey Dattola

ARISE

Tupper Lake

Content, not color

TO THE EDITOR: Fifty-six percent of the population, including blacks, disagree with Obama's "content of character," not the "color of his skin." Where have I heard this before?

Blacks have played the race card, every time they can't win the debate. We saw it with Prof. Gates, who thought his social standing allowed him to ignore a white cop's orders. We saw it with Rodney King, who was told 18 times to stay down. Twenty million dollars and five years later, cocaine charges.

Dr. Dre on election night rapped, "F Afghanistan, F Iraq, no mo' white lies, my president is black." No one criticized LL Cool J when he said "Black kids don't shoot up schools." But the real "racists" would label me, if I said; "You're right LL, black kids don't shoot up schools, because school starts at 8, not noon."

It's also a fact that the majority of "tea-baggers," as name calling goes, disagree with Obama's version of big government, but would be called racist, if they mention his big cars.

Black activists scream racism when a liquor company puts too many billboards in inner-city areas, but forget to look at Uncle Ben's, Aunt Jemima, or the latest Popeye's chicken advertisement. Two of them, Sharpton and Jackson, call themselves reverends to avoid paying taxes, but don't mind telling the government how to "spread the wealth." Jackson wanted to remove part of Obama's body parts, yet was seen crying in the front row at his acceptance speech on election night, standing next to the other big 0, Oprah, who gave up on her own people, by building schools in Africa. It seems some people don't want I-pods and Air Jordans.

Blacks want a hand up, not a hand out. Mr. Wiley; don't bite that hand.

Peter J. Moore

West Chazy

Community asset

TO THE EDITOR: The recent editorial on United Way calling it a heart of the region could not have been more accurate. It is truly one of the community's greatest assets.

I have been associated with the United Way organization for over 10 years. I served on the board of Brown County United Way in Wisconsin prior to our move to the North Country three years ago. I am a firm believer that we have a responsibility to give back to the communities that have enabled us to be successful members of society. We also realize not everyone is as fortunate. The United Way of Clinton & Essex County are lucky to have a very dedicated and supportive staff along with a multitude of very caring and committed community volunteers.

I chose years ago to become involved with United Way for several reasons. One, it is a very well run organization that manages its overhead (fixed costs) in a manner that makes even private enterprise envious. Second, I am a believer that government cannot solve all the problems that exist in our local communities; it is simply not feasible. Third, and most important, is that the decisions are made by local volunteers who are closest to the problems and challenges that are faced by the community. I trust and have confidence that my charitable dollars are distributed in a fair and consistent manner because I know who makes those decisions.

Our local United Way serves 33 local agencies that touch almost every resident in some form or fashion. Your support of this year's United Way campaign is needed more than ever. Echoing the comment from the recent editorial, if you are able, give more than last year. If you are not a leadership giver, but have the capacity; consider giving at a leadership level Ask your neighbors, ask your friends or ask your employer to become engaged in this years United Way Campaign. Give back to the community through your support of United Way.

Kirk Stallsmith

United Way board member

Vice chair

2010 United Way Campaign

Speed needed

TO THE EDITOR: Concerning global warming's urgency, I've been accused of trying to impose "my" beliefs upon others, to "force" rapid development of windfarms containing several large, presumed-to-be-intrusive, turbines. The urgency is not my "belief" alone. It's shared by 80 percent of New York State. It's informed by climatologists. They've Earth's highest expertise about it. Over 99 percent accept warming's factuality, humanity's role in it, and thereby humanity's ability against it. It's not debatable.

I'm concerned. Global-warming and nuclear's permanent pollution can harm me, but others too, including my critics. Their emotionally myopic thinking threatens both themselves and others.

The danger may not comfortingly wait 50 to 100 years. Though global-warming's havoc might wait that long, it may only take a decade, or a couple of years. That soon, growing lakes of land-based glacial rneltwater, can breach their weakening ice dams. Their sea-level rise could drastically alter coastlines, (like the ancient North-American-Ice-Sheet meltwater's Niagara-dwarfing torrent that made the deep gorge straddling our Canadian border, locally called "The Gulf," before scouring bare bedrock on much of Altona/Mooers' region, eventually flooding continental shelves). Climatologists differ on when, and how much, (3-feet, 20-, 40- or 200-) not whether it exists.

Waiting, to be certain,"sure" of last-minute technological rescue, could so cripple industrial infrastructure, that energy modifications combating our permanent descent into Third World conditions, might never happen. Solar heat's reduced reflection, from white ice/snow's replacement by darker land/water, further interferes with climate's re-cooling. Could we recover? Restoration strains our advanced society in just one ruined city: New Orleans.

Picking and choosing among them, many people including myself, would prefer the 50-year, or especially 100-year, possibility. Then, we could sit back, letting others worry later.

Can we "go slow?" Not unless climate's change does. Slowing climate change demands speeding wind development. That's forcing wind development's rapidity; not me.

David E. Manwell

Beekmantown

Consolidation prudent

TO THE EDITOR: I very much appreciate Mr. Comfort's recent statements on the reasons for overflow of the city sewage treatment plant. He is certainly correct in his assessment that the plant itself has plenty of extra capacity because there is a combined drain water and waste water system. I found his comments to be most helpful and illuminating.

Capacity non-issues and overflow issues notwithstanding, this region still deserves a modern sewage-treatment plant that can better protect our lake. Such a plant, in a better location, can act as an engine for economic growth and will be more consistent with the types of economic activity and residents we hope to attract to our region. It would also create better opportunities for us to develop the shore in the city, which is something we all prize.

Of course, we cannot expect the city to shoulder a burden that will benefit us all. Now is the time for State Sen. Little and Assemblywoman Duprey, and for the U.S. senators Schumer and Leahy to help us consolidate services and protect our lake. I firmly believe it to be within the realm of the possible and will create economic development opportunities that will benefit us all.

More immediately, I think it would have made a big difference in the current Cumberland Head sewer debate. While no one wants to pay for such a sewer network, many, myself included, would happily do so if we really thought we were contributing to a healthy Lake Champlain and to the economic vitality of our region.

Colin Read

Plattsburgh

B-52s overlooked

TO THE EDITOR: Recently, my wife and I visited the former Plattsburgh AFB. We lived on base from February 1968 until January 1971. I was assigned to the 528th Bomb Squadron as a B-52 co-pilot. B-52s, their air and ground crews served at Plattsburgh from 1966 to 1971. Although our squadron garnered no trophies or awards, we did lose one aircraft and a co-pilot in a 1968 crash. Also, many 528th crews served in Southeast Asia flying combat missions during that period.

It seemed to me that only tho flying squadrons (B-47s, KC-135s and FB-111s) which had received trophies or awards are recognized with monuments at the entrance of what was the "Old Base." I was surprised and disappointed to find there is not a single word mentioning the fact that the base ever hosted B-52s. Why is that?

I would be remiss if I omitted the fact that in 1970, during the Cambodian incursion, a group of university students and local citizens marched to the base gate to protest our government's actions.

Accordingly, I have to wonder if the omission of any mention of the existence of the B-52s at Plattsburgh is a simple oversight, or if it is intentional? Is the silence a concession to the protest held 39 years ago as a lingering resentment? Whatever the reason, I was appalled that the all too brief B-52 tenure at Plattsburgh is being ignored. I write this letter in the hope that this injustice will be rectified, so that the B-52 era will be publicly and rightfully memorialized as a part of the long and proud history of Plattsburgh's contribution to our nation's military.

Billy Smith, Jr., Col. USAF (Ret)

Las Vegas, Nev.

Nothing to hide

TO THE EDITOR: One needs to seriously question the motives of congressional candidate Bill Owens. After performing a simple search with the Board of Elections, it is clear that he has a track record of donating to Republican candidates. Why has he suddenly taken the politically expedient approach of jumping ships just to feign carrying the Democratic torch during this election?

Since candidate Owens has yet to take a stance on any substantive issue, one has to think that he is just another self-serving politician seeking to use the Democratic Party for his own personal gain — exactly the type of person that we do not need, nor do we deserve in Washington representing the North Country.

Candidate Owens, by failing to address major concerns in regards to his candidacy, by failing to file campaign disclosure reports in a timely manner as required by law and by failing to show up to campaign events, proves that he is not capable of handling the responsibility incumbent upon a member of Congress.

Please do not fail your fellow citizens in the way that Bill Owens has, cast a vote for Dede Scozzafava this Nov. 3, a candidate who has nothing to hide.

Andrew Brockway

Plattsburgh

Conservative values

TO THE EDITOR: Republicans beware, especially you independent voters, too! I am a Republican, but more I am a conservative. The Republican candidate, Dede Scozzafava, is a far cry from John McHugh's conservatism and probably that of most of the North Country's.

I quote from "The Weekly Standard" (Sept. 14, pages 15-16) "whose record qualifies her as the most liberal Republican congressional candidate in memory. She is pro-card check, meanwhile her husband is the regional president of the AFL-CIO, pro-abortion, and twice voted in the Assembly to legalize gay marriage. She has repeatedly won the endorsement of the ACORN-backed Working Family Party. She symbolizes the tax-and—spend-and-earmark philosophy that has so decimated the Republican Party in Congress." Does the North Country really want this kind of representation in Washington?

Bill Owens is a good family man, a nice guy and a successful attorney. As a freshman congressman he will have no clout. To improve his congressional status he will be taking his marching orders from the very liberal senator from New York City Chuck Schumer and SEIU (and God forbid orders from Nancy Pelosi). All of this means another vote for Obama's schemes.

Vote North Country conservative values. Vote Doug Hoffman from Lake Placid on Nov. 3.

John H. McGaulley

Plattsburgh

Land-tax reforms

TO THE EDITOR: Thank you for your article in the Oct. 6 Press-Republican headlined "Adirondack population aging, dipping."

Our Ticonderoga School Board and superintendent probably see their primary job as "doing the best they can" for the educational health of the students. The problem is where does this end when it comes to spending and taxes?

If class sizes of 20 used to be acceptable, then 10 must be even better, right? Or, how about five, or private tutorials? How about a deluxe swimming pool for the school, as was originally proposed for the new multi-million-dollar building plan that will begin to tax each Ticonderoga homeowner an additional 10-plus starting over the next two years?

Instead, it seems to me that "doing the best they can" for the students should include promoting the health of the community in general, including the financial health of the families that live here and have to pay for the education of their children. Lohr McKinstry's article fails to point out that Ticonderoga' schools have received top ("excellent") ratings for several years, obviously calling into question the need for more and more "doing the best they can" by taxing and spending on improvements for the students.

Our superintendent and School Board should control spending and speak loudly and clearly for the need for property-tax reform: what is desperately needed is a "circuit-breaker" limit on property taxes, to effectively save a family's home when their school, town and county property taxes exceed a certain percentage of their income. Bills now in the legislature (S4239A and A8702) would allow a residential homeowner who has retired, lost a job, or become disabled to receive a refund of excess property taxes when filing their income tax return, and thus protect them and their family from losing their home to property taxes.

New York has the worst property taxes in the country. We must do something now to save homeowners and keep them in their homes. Voters should demand that elected officials support these property-tax reforms.

Richard Wray

Ticonderoga

Keep town affordable

TO THE EDITOR: We are truly blessed to live in a beautiful region with good people who care about their neighbors. But the worldwide economic meltdown, two wars, climate change and other complex issues affect the standard of living of people at the local level, threatening our way of life.

The words, "Think globally, act locally," never had more meaning. Local concerns matter. While our new president and administration and New York state grapple with problems at the international, national and state levels, we need strong local government that will be proactive and come up with creative solutions that benefit the great majority of town residents, especially middle/working-class families and individuals who are struggling to make ends meet.

I am running for town councilperson in the Town of Jay because I believe I can make a difference and would like to give something back to a town that has given my family and me so much. The current town board has done a very good job, but its members need more involvement from residents to deal with these complex problems that originate outside the borders of our township.

As someone who has lived in Jay since 1992, I have been involved in the town as a volunteer and community organizer. But I believe I can accomplish more working on the inside, supporting Supervisor Douglas and working directly with board members to do the right things for our town.

My goals include keeping taxes down while maintaining essential services; launching a "Buy Local" campaign to help local businesses survive and prosper; sparking a town-wide conversation on the need for a comprehensive zoning plan; and helping the Town of Jay "go green." For a complete list of my goals and qualifications, please visit www.fredbalzac.com.

Together, we can keep the Town of Jay beautiful and affordable.

Fred Balzac

Jay