DELAYS
Haven't seen your Speakout? There are a few possible reasons.
We won't publish Speakouts that are longer than 100 words or that we consider libelous or inappropriate, including personal attacks, merchant complaints that we can't verify and court matters.
Also, once a topic seems to have run its course, we will cut those for a time. The point has been made, and writers are always welcome to send a signed Letter to the Editor of no more than 300 words for publication on the Editorial page.
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If you have any questions, call News Editor Lois Clermont at 565-4131.
Lost dog
My heart goes out to the people who had their little dog taken from their yard. I hope whoever took it is remorseful and will return it promptly, and I am sure no questions will be asked. It would be a good idea if the owner gave a phone number and/or address with an offer of a reward if someone found and returned the dog. It also might be helpful to have it announced on WIRY and perhaps even on the local TV station.
Great show
I had the pleasure of attending Adirondack Dance Company's production of "Cinderella" and an "Evening of the Arts." It has to be the best dance production that I have seen at Giltz. The director condensed the story to 45 minutes and kept us glued to our seats with anticipation of the next scene. Costumes were beautiful, and dancing was strong. Their contemporary dance pieces in the second act showed the talent of this organization, plus I enjoyed all the different arts groups. Great show.
Performance
I just want to commend Adirondack Dance Company for the wonderful performance of "Cinderella" and an Evening of the Arts. This company presented their third spring performance, and I was impressed by the growth of the group. This performance was innovative and the best dance performance I have seen in Plattsburgh. The director used the aisles of the theater to signify leaving Cinderella's house and then arriving at the ball. The dancers were lovely, especially the fairies, and Cinderella was a delight. The second act showcased the company's contemporary and modern dance with an impressive piece, Breath of the Rainforest. Bravo to them all!
Amazed
I had to write and express my amazement at the wonderful production of "Cinderella" that Adirondack Dance Company presented on May 21. It was fresh, highly technical dancing, beautiful costumes, a bit of comedy and a love story all in one. The second act was a diverse mix of art from the North Country, with lovely Irish dancers, complex and dynamic contemporary dance, some musical theater and the After Five Brass. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and can't wait for their next production. Kudos to the artistic director and dancers.
Park
I walk my dog each day at the East Morrisonville Youth Recreation Area, which is probably the most beautiful and useful park in all of the Adirondacks for both youth and adult to take advantage of. It has also become a haven for dog walkers, which the Town of Plattsburgh has recognized and provides plastic bags for dog deposits.
Unfortunately, we have individuals who do not feel that it's their responsibility to utilize the bags or find a way to pick up their dog's doo. Behold for those who feel that they are above their responsibility — remember what happened at the Clinton County Fairgrounds. Maybe you would rather use the sidewalks and continue to get away with same.
Lights
I like my Christmas lights on my house because Christmas is every day of the year. You don't need to look at them and get upset. You are too young to get upset about the Christmas lights on a house year round. These have been on our house and garage since 1989.
Costs
Regarding saving money. I often hear the young people complain about money, how expensive it is to take care of a baby. First, how about washing the baby's diapers. Count how much you spend on just that item. Cook their vegetables and mash them instead of buying baby food. I did it for five — three in diapers at one time — and our children did just fine.
Staff
A major medical facility with a state-funded office in our area hires the most incompetent people to answer phones, make appointments and retrieve messages. There are some exceptions, the dedicated staff, which are few and far between. It seems this facility is so desperate that they fill positions with unprofessional staff. Homeless street people would do a better job. When you call this certain office, they ask you what is it you need. Doesn't surprise me. Maybe I'll call two weeks prior on a refill so they can catch up.
Eyesore
I am just wondering when Plattsburgh International Airport terminal is going to look like an airport terminal and not an eyesore for those who drive by it. It opened its doors June 18, 2007. It just looks like a giant construction site. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful building; I just think it's time to clean up the exterior. Let's welcome people to Plattsburgh with class, not excavators and dump trucks.
Signs
Who is in charge of removing signs placed alongside street intersections in and around Plattsburgh? This spring many have popped up, including advertising for tree services and even the National Guard! I thought this was illegal, and it certainly is ugly. It makes our city look cheap and desperate. Please remove them.
Sandbox
What about the neighbor whose cat continues to defecate in my child's sand box? Why don't cats have to be on a leash like dogs?
Coaches
It is about time someone speaks up about high-school athletics. Aren't coaches supposed to open minded, there for the best interest of all of the kids? And aren't they still team sports? What about the coaches that are allowed to mistreat the kids and still get reappointed? What about the coaches that are approached by a parent regarding an issue, disregard what the parent has to say and then retaliate against the athlete at the next sports practice or game. Athletic directors, get the bully coaches under control.
Fire truck
I know why the fire truck was out that night of May 9, and I have no problem with what it was being used for, but I still feel that our tax dollars do not pay for a taxi service or limo service to proms and such. I know how hard the volunteers work for every community, including ours, but do not think that is what a fire truck is for. If someone else in town or in that department had asked to do that, the answer would have been no.
