Brown for library trustee
To the editor:
The election of trustees to the Londonderry Public Library Board requires the immediate attention of anyone who cares about local quality of life. When the economy tumbles, towns find themselves in a Catch-22: less money for libraries and more people in need of their services.
However, a surprising number of people don't realize how critical libraries are. Though a graduate of Londonderry High School, I now work in a busy branch library in Providence, R.I. Even there — where the library provides after-school programming, self-help videos, English classes, hip-hop CDs, graphic novels, and many families' only access to the Internet — people hear that I'm a librarian and make jokes about buns and the Dewey decimal system.
I admit I find the Dewey decimal system useful for organizing books, but I have no particular affection for it. I became a librarian because I wanted to protect people's right to information and their participation in the lightning-paced cultural life of this county. Putting things in numerical order is the least of my worries.
Surely Stephen Colbert was only half-joking when he coined the term, "librarians have secrets." A recent Pew study reports that people come to libraries to solve their most pressing problems. I get questions about college applications, tax forms, pet care, medications, UFO sightings, dating, bird watching, and rehabilitating juvenile offenders. Trust me. When the going gets tough, the tough go to the library.
Knowing how important libraries are, I am writing to encourage you to vote for Ray Brown for Library Board of Trustees. He's a retired military officer and current security consultant who knows how to serve the public, hold people accountable, and safeguard our basic rights. He's also my dad, so he's not blinded by stereotypes about buns and shushing. In fact, he raised three kids in L-town, coaching soccer, attending band concerts, and even guest speaking in my law class. He knows that the quality of life in Londonderry is worth preserving and that preserving the library is the first step to guaranteeing a vital future.
Emily Brown
Providence, R.I.
Cardon, Newell will unite council
To the editor:
I would like the people of Derry to know that in this upcoming Town Council race there are two candidates running who I have known over eight years. I can honestly say they are two of the most honest and forthright men I've ever met. When I ask them for an opinion, I get an answer even if I don't like it.
These two gentlemen are Doug Newell and Tom Cardon, better known as the Taxpayer Team. Tom and Doug have been involved in town politics for several years and have always worked to keep our taxes down. They have both been involved with the Alliance of Derry Taxpayers and Doug is one of its founders. They continue to work on issues that will shape the future of our town. They worked together on the 2006 charter commission, which in my opinion was one of the best run and most respectful groups this town has seen in many years. They were respectful of one another and the people who spoke at the meetings. Despite differences on issues, they got along remarkably well.
If they do win this March's election, the Town Council will mirror how they worked together. Tom and Doug will help to restore a divided council and will help to move the town forward. I strongly support these two candidates and urge others to do also. We desperately need people of this caliber on our Town Council. These gentlemen will bring stability and cohesion to the Town Council.
George Chaloux
Derry
Cardon, Newell will bring fundamental change
To the editor:
The upcoming town election presents a clear choice for voters about whether they're content with the status quo or whether they want to fundamentally change the way this Town has been run for the last 20 years. Are you content with the way this Town has been run? Are you happy about the taxes you pay? If you are, then Mr. Benson and Mr. Wetherbee are your candidates. They are supported by the same people who have run this Town for years.
If on the other hand you want to bring about fundamental change, then please join me in voting for Tom Cardon for councilor at large and Doug Newell in District 3. These two gentlemen represent the change most of us want to see for Derry. They want to stop the wasteful spending on Exit 4A. They want to make it easier for seniors to stay in the community by increasing the elderly exemption. Tom and Doug are longtime residents of the community who have fought tirelessly for the ever struggling taxpayer.
You have a choice to change your community. Please join me in voting for Tom Cardon and Doug Newell on March 11.
Kevin Coyle
Derry
Newell, Cardon are taxpayer-friendly
To the editor:
Derry voters need to understand what is at stake in the upcoming municipal elections on Tuesday, March 11. We as citizens of Derry can remain complacent and fail to vote except for presidential elections, or we can get off our duffs and vote on March 11. Exit 4A off Route 93, with the cost of bonding and infrastructure build-out, probably will cost around $40 million to $50 million — yes, million. The state has no intention of funding the project and the federal government has not offered to fund it as well. Guess who will pay?
Then there is the issue of voting. We need to elect councilors who have the intestinal fortitude to challenge and question unreasonable municipal contracts such as the one proposed by the firefighters union. Kevin Coyle, Janet Fairbanks, Brent Carney and Beverly Ferrante would not support a contract that gives benefits far in excess of what any taxpaying constituent of Derry receives. The firefighters union expects to get 10 weeks of vacation after 16 years of service, $10,500 for opting out of family insurance, and a lifetime guarantee of employment for those hired prior to 2005. All this while the average earnings last year for a Derry firefighter was $72,000 and a number of them made in excess of $100,000. I wonder why union President Garry Williams is complaining about this information becoming public? We all hold our firefighters in high regard, but this is well beyond the realm of reasonableness.
For the above reasons and many others not mentioned, we need to elect tough-minded, analytical, taxpayer-friendly councilors. I will be voting for Doug Newell and Tom Cardon. Both of these individuals have the attributes listed above. Both Doug and Tom have been heavily involved in analyzing the inner workings of Derry through their involvement in the Alliance of Derry Taxpayers. They are also part of an organization called the Taxpayer Team, a group dedicated to representing the taxpayers of Derry. Get out and vote.
State Rep. Howie Lund
Derry
Grabowski, Smith for school board
To the editor:
It has been suggested by a letter writer that voters need to ask questions of the candidates. I would agree that questions are important, however, asking questions that seek opinions rather than questions about involvement may not tell us much.
For instance, if a person has spent the time and energy to be a member of the Fiscal Advisory Committee to the school board or has been active with the PTA or other volunteer groups in our schools, that tells me much more about a person's ability to serve the taxpayers and the children of the district than their opinion about No Child Left Behind, which we as board members are unable to change. What I am concerned with is the candidate's commitment to ensuring that every child in Derry gets the best educational experience we can provide, that our administration has the tools to effectively run the district, and that our teachers have the environment, curriculum and supervision necessary to do their job.
Wendy Smith and Mark Grabowski have both served on the Fiscal Advisory Committee. They both understand the budget process and have been involved in it. Both have experience volunteering in our schools. Both have shown through their participation that they have a commitment to their children's education and the other children of the Derry School District.
If a candidate is concerned about having an influence on state school funding legislation, then the place to be is in the Legislature, where they can have a direct impact on the substance of the laws that affect our funding. Being a school board member is not as much about what they have done in the past outside of the school district. To me it is more about what they have done to help improve the quality of education within our district. That means being involved in the educational process, whether it be by volunteering in the schools or serving on school committees. I ask for your support and your vote for Wendy Smith and Mark Grabowski for school board.
Neal Ochs
Derry School Board member
Cardon, Newell are best choices
To the editor:
We once again come to the time when we must choose those who will help lead our community for the next three years. Serving as a town councilor is a time-consuming and sometimes thankless job that requires dedication and a true sense of purpose, as opposed to simply "holding the seat."
As someone who has been there before, I can see when someone is there to effect positive change for all in the community or something else. For positive change in the councilor at large seat, there is no doubt Tom Cardon is that man.
I've known Tom since the early '90s when we were both getting involved in the local political scene and he has been a strong advocate for the taxpayers in many ways, and we have fought many battles together. What also makes Tom an excellent council candidate is his temperament. His even-keeled approach will serve him very well on the council, and more importantly, will serve us well.
In District 3, voters are fortunate to have Doug Newell running for that seat. Doug is clearly a man that gathers the data before speaking and has the answers to the questions that follow on the issues he presents. Doug's ability to research the issue so he makes an informed decision will be a key asset for the voters of District 3.
So, consider your choices, not just for March 11, but for the future of our community and elect Tom Cardon for councilor at large and Doug Newell for District 3 councilor.
Paul Hopfgarten
Derry
Smith advocates for Derry, children
To the editor:
I met Wendy Smith 25 years ago, while she was assisting a family that lost their home to a fire. She was collecting clothing and household items to help the family. Since that time, our paths have crossed in different ways, as an East Derry and West Running Brook PTA parent, as a school volunteer, as a school district Fiscal Advisory Committee member, as a member of the school district's special education committee and as a citizen concerned about the future of Derry and our children. She participated as a board member of the East Derry Memorial School Extended Day Care Board and taught religious education at First Parish Church, also volunteering at their holiday fair. She can also be found on the sidelines cheering for soccer and field hockey teams.
As a single parent and homeowner in Derry, Wendy is well aware of the struggle of the taxpayers. She works hard to provide for her daughter and maintain her home. As an engineer, she also understands and values the importance of a good education. She became a member of the school district's Fiscal Advisory Committee to gain knowledge about the cost of education and how Derry's money was being spent. She has not hesitated to ask questions and raise concerns. However, she was also very quick to point out that her daughter received a good education at East Derry and West Running Brook schools.
While she does not have a special-education child, Wendy wanted to gain better understanding of the special education process and funding, so she joined the Special Education Committee. Having participated as a volunteer with a recreational program that assisted individuals with special needs, she wanted to become more involved.
Wendy Smith has proven herself to be a committed and concerned citizen of Derry, having lived here for 25 years. She has quietly been involved in many different aspects, volunteering and advocating for Derry and our children. Wendy is hardworking and will continue to advocate for all children, while also understanding and advocating for the taxpayers of our community.
Brenda Willis
Derry
Farewell to Bulkley, Ferrante
To the editor:
Regardless of what happens Tuesday night, we will bid a fond goodbye to councilors Bev Ferrante and Craig W. Bulkley, who are pulling the plug at an optimum time.
We owe them a lot.
Derry, today, is on the brink of fiscal extinction.
Over the years, Ms. Ferrante and Mr. Bulkley, and their council majority, have had an open-door policy. Oh, no, not for the taxpayers, but rather for the town employees, who've had no trouble negotiating rich agreements. And with companies like CLD Engineering, working Exit 4A to death, whose enormous invoices are always paid on time.
So, let's take a look at just a few examples of their throwing our money out the window.
They've floated a $5 million bond for the Exit 4A project, despite its being dead in the water, to continue a project which Londonderry has stopped payment on, and to which Gov. Lynch has said no. Yet they've bonded $5 million to continue transfusing our money into this corpse.
They've sunk $1 million into studies and road improvements to bring Wal-Mart here, and Wal-Mart is still AWOL.
We spent $2 million for site work on the fabled Ash Street development, something a seller never does except in Derry.
Just to keep our hand in the insanity end of things, the latest gig is to purchase contaminated land near Central Court for more money than it's worth to build a parking garage in the middle of the worst credit crisis in decades because Mr. Jack Dowd says it's a superb idea, without a single written study being offered.
On top of all this, we learn (from the television, not from our elected officials) that something called Senate Bill 539 has just breached like a blue whale in Concord, and, if passed, will add hundreds of dollars to our Derry property tax bills, at the rate of about $2.33 per thousand in assessed valuation.
And with our current property values dropping like bombs, most of us can't afford to leave this economic wasteland.
Thanks for the memories.
John Burtis
Derry
Wetherbee will speak for residents
To the editor:
As a longtime resident of Derry, a District 3 resident, and an individual who has been committed to town service in my own right, I am writing in support of Neil Wetherbee for Town Council in District 3.
From personal experience, I know that sitting in public office takes long hours and hard work. I believe Neil Wetherbee is prepared for both and would be an excellent representative of our district. I have seen his dedication firsthand and have been pleased to see his commitment to making our town the best it can be. He has proven that he is able to follow through with ideas and plans, has the ability to motivate others to work alongside him in unison, and delivers on his promises.
Neil has shown that he is an excellent listener and will strive to hear all those in our district who want to be heard. He plans to meet with District 3 residents several times a year in order to hear what is on our minds and discuss solutions to address our issues. This type of open communication with councilors and residents is imperative to moving our town forward in today's difficult world.
Neil's work with the Conservation Commission and his commendable dedication to saving the Metamorphosis Children's Museum show that his energies are focused on causes that are for the good of Derry as a whole. His professionalism and strength of character shine through in all of his efforts. He is extremely focused on all of the efforts he undertakes and I believe strongly that his focus on representing Derry's District 3 residents would be the same.
As our councilor he will be devoted to speaking for our residents and will offer a fresh independent voice rather than forcing his personal opinions forth with some predetermined agenda. He will help to bring a more hospitable environment to council discussions by being open-minded and tolerant of others' ideas and suggestions. He will be an advocate for all of us, our pocketbooks and or quality of life. Please vote for Neil Wetherbee on March 11.
Beverly A. Ferrante
Derry town councilor
Rice Conley serves with integrity
To the editor:
In support of Cindi Rice Conley:
As a Londonderry ballot clerk, I can attest to the expertise exhibited at the polls by Town Moderator Cindi Rice Conley. This position requires integrity and attention to details, qualities that Cindi exudes. She does not have a political agenda; she precisely executes her duties fairly and cordially in accordance with governing laws and principles. Our town is fortunate she is willing to continue to serve in this important position and I urge voters to re-elect the skilled and impartial Ms. Rice Conley as town moderator.
Pollyann Winslow
Londonderry
A voting reminder
To the editor:
Remember to vote Tuesday March 11. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. so you can vote before your commute to work or afterward. Districts 1 and 4 vote at Hood School and Districts 2 and 3 vote at West Running Brook School. Citizens will be voting on candidates for the Derry School Board, Town Councilor at large and Town Councilor for District 3, Trustees for the East Derry and Derry Public Libraries, Supervisor of the Checklist, Town Moderator, Trustee of the Trust Funds, school budget questions and the proposed 4A exit from Route 93.
Same day voter registration is available that day.
Your vote matters. Please vote.
Margaret Ives
Town moderator
Derry
Arancio a 'voice' for residents
To the editor:
I am writing this letter in support of Nick Arancio a candidate for District 3. I have known Nick for a number of years now and have found him to be an honest, hard-working, caring individual. I agree with Nick when he states that the council has forgotten the people they were elected to serve. Nick is not "politically connected" to any group in town and will base his decisions on input from residents and what is best for the town, never forgetting the people who elected him. If Nick is elected, the residents of District 3 will finally have a "voice" rather than an echo of other councilor's positions. Please vote! Your vote is important.
Paul Kimball
Derry
Get out and vote
To the editor:
In January, voters in Derry turned out in record numbers to vote in the presidential primary. There were folks lined up in their cars on roadways leading to the two polling locations in town. Derry voters felt the need to participate in what has become a massive national change in direction of presidential politics. In November we will get the chance to vote for a candidate who will have the opportunity to redirect the course of our nation and the world for our children's generation.
What gets lost in the news' national political coverage is that our local community of Derry faces great challenges in the coming months. We will need to recruit a new town administrator. We have to secure funding for Derry's ever-increasing share of the state retirement program. The Derry schools are facing massive budget shortfalls in state funding for next year. There is the economic reality that we are in a national recession. For Derry to navigate the turbulent course ahead we must have a Town Council and School Board that can come together are create solutions, not build walls and waste time in-fighting.
You, the Derry voter, have shown that you are able to find the polling locations and time to make the trip for national elections. You have shown that you understand the value of your vote. Now you must take the time to look at your community and at the candidates: What candidate best addresses your concerns and can speak for you? There is a full slate of candidates for you to choose from.
If we all take the time on Tuesday, March 11, to vote, maybe we can start a movement toward making Derry a stronger community. Make sure you hum a bar when you get your ballot!
David McPherson
Derry
Setting the record straight on Exit 4A
To the editor:
I must respond to misstatements being spread by two candidates for Town Council in Derry regarding Exit 4A.
On Nov. 13, 2007, the finance director reported Derry had paid $725,000 to date. The total cost for Exit 4A and the connector is estimated at $24 million to $30 million for 2010.
Londonderry has 207 acres to develop. Derry has 269.9 ready-to-develop, already zoned properly. This will increase property valuations and create many new jobs.
Gov. Lynch's letter to the Legislature states, "I recognize that communities are concerned that projects not in the current 10-year plan will be forgotten." That is not the case. He asked the Department of Transportation to begin developing a list of projects, such as Exit 4A in Derry, two other projects and the remainder of the I-93 expansion, which we should consider as priorities. The process will begin again in two years.
Sens. Letourneau, Gregg and Sununu have all continually showed support for Exit 4A.
The Exit 4A project has always been envisioned as a town, state, federal and private partnership. In 1997, 70 percent of voters supported Exit 4A on a binding ballot question. Every Derry Council since 1986 has supported Exit 4A. In 2005, all five Londonderry councilors signed a new agreement with Derry and the engineers. Representatives of both towns have attended many meetings since and there has never been any discussion that Londonderry wants out of the project.
In conclusion, a vote for 4A is a vote for prosperity, good traffic flow, new jobs, less pollution and an expanded tax base that will support Derry's much-needed improvements over time.
Jack Dowd
Derry
Benson deserves support
To the editor:
I am writing on behalf of Brad Benson, lifelong resident of Derry and 25-year president of Benson Lumber & Hardware. Mr. Benson is an involved member of the Derry community as a member of the Board of Directors for the Derryfield School, the Board of Directors for the Derry Village Improvement Association, and the Derry Soccer Club.
Mr. Benson has decided to run for Town Council in order to take a proactive and positive approach to improving the future of Derry. His common-sense, practical, straight-forward approach to making the "right" decisions for the community will prove to be a great asset to the town. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Jessica Chabot
Derry
Vote 'yes' on Article 11
To the editor:
I am writing in response to Bob Napolitano's letter asking people to vote "no" on Warrant Article 11 regarding athletic field maintenance and improvements. First, let me say that I am not an expert on how many baseball fields the school district has, so I am not going to challenge Mr. Napolitano's counting abilities, but I do know that the outfield of the varsity baseball field is the varsity football field and that the outfield of the junior varsity field is the high school parking lot. Neither of these situations makes sense to me and I believe raising funds to start the construction of a new varsity baseball field falls within the definition of "improvements."
Second, I am curious why Mr. Napolitano only speaks about baseball when Article 11 seeks maintenance, improvement and upkeep of other athletic fields, e.g. soccer, football, lacrosse and cross country. Specifically, I refer Mr. Napolitano to the construction of a varsity soccer field, which will not be a "new" field, but will be a soccer field in the fall and a varsity lacrosse field in the spring. This is a win-win situation, but it cannot be accomplished unless changes are made to the current varsity lacrosse field to bring it into compliance so that soccer games can be played on it.
Finally, I do agree with Mr. Napolitano that people are either in or falling into financial hard times. My family and I have been feeling that pinch, not just this year but for many years. Yet we have made a conscious decision to support our school administrators, as well as our town administrators, after they have spent hours studying and making recommendations on which warrant articles to support. So I will vote for the warrant articles recommended by the school board, as I have year after year, and I ask that you vote "yes" on Article 11 and support the high school athletic programs. Regretfully, I will not be at the polls all day Tuesday with a "yes" sign because I will be working so that I can continue my support in the future.
Bonnie J. McSpiritt
Londonderry
