Letters to the Editor

 

Dear Editor,

I want to take this opportunity to thank the director of "Happy Hands" play group that meets each Wednesday at 9:30 AM at the New Begin Center.
She does a wonderful job of having the facility open each week on time, provides snacks and a craft for the children.

I love the free style format. My energetic 2 year old son has learned to play with others and enjoys seeing his new friends each week. Every time we pass by the Newbegin Center, he asks if he can stop at "Happy Hands."
I admit that the play group produces a happy cacophony of sounds, but it is geared toward children and their need to burn off some energy. There are more structured groups in town for children, such as the library story times on Tuesdays and Fridays. I am happy that my children get exposed to both styles of play and are able to learn from both environments.

I hope Mrs. Dexter does not change a thing. Thanks, Mrs. Dexter!

Heather Maines,
Gray

Dear Editor,

I write in response to your April 14, 2005 editorial titled, "Who's the Boss." I would like to clarify the context of my comments for those whomissed the New Gloucester Board of Selectman meeting on April 11.

At the conclusion of our meeting and under agenda item "Selectman's Communication," I asked the Town Manager if passage of Ms. Hilton's proposed Letter of Resolution required my signature. (Important to note that a Resolution is an opinion, NOT an Ordinance). Since it ran counter to my strongly held personal beliefs, I stated I would rather resign than sign the Letter.

Why would I place the town or Ms. Hilton in a position of determining Military readiness? I would not. I feel no need to defend my support for our military personnel and their families. The Letter of Resolutiondisrespects our military intelligence, our armed forces training programs, and the men and women serving abroad who willingly protect the liberties and freedoms of all people. It is an insult to those who have served, are serving, and will serve, to suggest we as private citizens are better equipped than the President, the Senate, and the House of Representatives to determine the appropriate use of our Armed Forces.

I want to preserve the respect and dignity of our servicemen and women, as well as those of us who have the privilege of serving in public office.
Since I voted to move the Letter of Resolution forward to the voters, the appropriate democratic process will take place. The conscience of the people will dictate how they cast their vote. My conscience will continue to dictate mine.

Respectfully,
Stephanie Bryan