Open letter to Cindy Barber

To the editor:

Recently you left a message on my home answering machine after you read my letter to the editor in the August 28 issue of the Sullivan County Democrat. You inquired as to how I got my information regarding the upcoming election for county court judge. Rather than responding to just you, I thought that the voters of Sullivan County might be interested on how to do this research.

Though I am not a lawyer, I was able to access several law databases on the Internet that were very helpful. This took some time to find. Had I been a lawyer like you I would have accessed Westlaw.

In researching the databases, I was able to come up with some case law, including one citation from the New York State Court of Appeals and the New York State Constitution, which clarified the issue for me. When Judge Ledina retires in three years, there will be another election to replace him, without an appointment by the governor.

If you really have problems in doing this research you could always call the New York State Board of Elections at 518/474-8100 who will also provide you with the law.

I anticipate that this will help you in clarifying your statements to the public. I am hopeful that when you reach Judge Ledina’s age, you will have the experience and knowledge necessary to then run for a county court judgeship.

It’s about preserving character

To the editor:

Regarding Mr. Barrett’s letter “Discriminatory or not?” in the August 30 issue of The River Reporter, and the civic association’s vote against allowing condo owners lake rights: I believe he is missing the point. It is not about any form of discrimination (bringing in the “old Smallwood history” is absurd.)

The civic vote that day was a way to voice “no” to 200 townhouse/condos (a la Orange County, Long Island, suburbia), which would be out of character with the countrified setting of Smallwood. Most people have come here to get away from congested city/suburban housing and traffic and enjoy a little peace and tranquility. The area is already being overbuilt (e.g. Chapin), destroying animal habitats, wetlands and so forth.

Passing on the torch

To the editor:

Over the past seven years, it has been our goal to produce hand-crafted artisan breads and baked goods of the highest quality. Thanks to our customers, our business has grown and surpassed all our expectations.

It is now time for us to move on to new challenges and new adventures. On July 28, Jennifer Hason took over as the new owner of Beach Lake Bread.

We are grateful to all our loyal customers, and we hope they will continue to support Beach Lake Bread.

Seize a chance for a positive future

To the editor:

To all Fallsburg residents, this may well be our last chance. Four out of five town council seats are up for election, including that of our supervisor, and owner of Fallsburg Lumber, Steve Levine. This is an incredible opportunity.

We have very positive thinking people, like Kevin McDaniel and Ada Cole, Kenny Demars and Deborah Chandler, challenging the incumbents for their seats. Not one of these people has a conflicting interest between their concern for our town and their occupations. With these people, we finally have a chance to take back our town and move in a positive direction. These people have new and fresh ideas. They are staunch environmentalists and strong advocates for youth programs. All of these people want revitalization of our community, smart growth and planning, and fair taxation. And they have done the research on how to make that happen.

The Democratic primary is on Tuesday, September 18. McDaniel and Cole are running. This is our best and last chance. Every single vote counts. Show that you care and still have hope for Fallsburg. Vote on primary day, September 18 and on election day, November 6.