New ideas
TO THE EDITOR: As the race to fill Town Board vacancies heats up in Beekmantown, it should be noted that there is one candidate who really stands out in the crowd — Mr. Mike Morales. I have known Mr. Morales for a number of years, and he has always impressed me as a man who cares about the people and quality of life in Beekmantown.
Mike has a very in-depth knowledge of our town by-laws and the issues that concern all citizens of our area. Mike is not a professional politician, but rather someone who just wants to make people's lives better. As such, Mike felt he could make a difference by becoming a member of the Town Council. It is rare today to find a person with such qualities.
Mike has new ideas of how to bring business to our town and how to address the concerns of all citizens no matter where they live in Beekmantown. He would be a wonderful asset to our Town Board. Mike cares deeply about the quality of life in Beekmantown and he will work hard to make the town an even better place in which to live.
It is important this year that we elect people like Mike Morales who will truly represent and work with all citizens of our town. Mike has attended most Town Board and Work Sessions over the past four years, has been on various town committees, and is well versed on the issues currently facing our Town Board. There would be no learning curve for Mike. He could fill the position of councilman with ease. Please consider Mike Morales when you go to the polls on Nov. 3.
Pete Hekkema
Beekmantown
Has all qualifications
TO THE EDITOR: I'm sending this letter asking your support in re-electing my father, Henry Hommes, as your Essex County sheriff. The silly season has begun once again (campaign time), and while we've been at this 12 years now, I can honestly say that this campaign trail has surpassed all others in terms of meaningless rhetoric, mudslinging, and all-out lies, to which I have little patience or taste for. That being said, don't let this unsavory side of politics take the focus off where it should really be, on the qualifications of the candidates, as well as the issues facing our county today.
Your sheriff needs experience in being an administrator, in law enforcement, and in corrections. Only one candidate has all of these qualifications and with over 40 years of combined experience, that candidate is Henry Hommes.
Your sheriff needs to have a handle on the issues facing the taxpayers of Essex County, as well as knowledge of how county government even works. Only one candidate has that knowledge and experience, as well as a proven track record of getting things done at the county level, that candidate is Henry Hommes.
Your Essex County sheriff needs to have the character and integrity that the office demands. I take great pride in saying that Henry Hommes is also that person.
So in listening to everybody's campaign speeches and before going to the polls on election day, keep in mind that it's easy for candidates to tell everyone what they want to hear and to make all kinds of fantastic promises about things you would do if elected, but just remember, there's only one candidate that's proven he can deliver on his.
Vote Henry Hommes for Essex County sheriff on Nov. 3!
Scott Hommes
Willsboro
Fortitude, ethics
TO THE EDITOR: As a lifelong resident of Beekmantown with a keen interest in the future of our community, I feel that our local elections present the ideal playing field for influencing policy and leadership which will affect our daily lives directly. It is my opinion that we, the youth, represent the vision and aspirations of our elders, and as young adults it is now our responsibility to become actively involved in forging our own future.
In a time where politics and propaganda are arguably synonymous, it is important that we greet candidates with a healthy degree of due skepticism. While I am grateful to any individual who is so dedicated as to run for political office, I have yet to meet a more impressive prospect for Beekmantown Councilman than Dr. Michael Morales.
Far too often, leaders fly by the seat of their pants, making decisions and policy without acquiring a thorough understanding of the topic at hand. Throughout his career as a professor and researcher at Plattsburgh State University, Mike has always made and implemented decisions with the informed, rational, and objective professionalism we would idealize in a community leader. All candidates are equally capable of answering, "What do you think?" but it is exceedingly rare to find a policy maker who can answer "Why do you think that?" with equal conviction.
It is Mike's preference for the latter, personal fortitude, and clean campaigning which, in my opinion, propels him far beyond his competition. A parent and an educator, Mike has always retained a firm commitment to the interests of Beekmantown's youth. It is for these reasons that I ask you to join me on Nov. 3 in casting your vote in support of Dr. Michael Morales for Beekmantown councilman.
Kelsey Moody
Beekmantown
Understands unique issues
TO THE EDITOR: Next month, residents of the 23rd Congressional District will have an opportunity to elect a new member to the U.S. House of Representatives, Bill Owens, who is open-minded and committed to serving his constituents in a bipartisan and effective manner.
As the leader of the union representing more than 500 U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees from Champlain to Alexandria Bay to Albany, I believe that Bill Owens understands the unique issues and concerns that come with a district which shares a border with Canada. Each day CBP employees process hundreds of travelers coming into our country at several border points. These workers are also responsible for ensuring safe and legitimate trade, and, of course, protecting our homeland.
Bill Owens understands that it is essential that CBP be able to attract and retain skilled and dedicated employees and that to strengthen this agency we need to increase staffing and make sure that all the proper tools and resources are in place. He also understands the commitment CBP employees bring to their jobs and he is committed to working hard to support them so our border is safe and secure to allow the ongoing flow of legitimate trade and travel.
With his knowledge of all the complex issues that are impacted local residents and border personnel, I believe Bill Owens will be a strong advocate for CBP employees and all the taxpayers in the district and I support his election as New York's newest member of Congress.
Thomas V. O'Keefe
President
National Treasury
Employees Union
Chapter 138
Champlain
Thorough response
TO THE EDITOR: I rarely publicly endorse political figures, but a recent experience reminded me of what so many politicians are lacking today.
I live in the Town of Chazy, and over the past year I have had several questions and concerns regarding a few town-related issues. One involving my own personal property and one involving a safety concern for motorists traveling our roadways within the town.
Regarding these matters I contacted Town Supervisor Staub Spiegel. I was most impressed with his timely and thorough response to my questions and concerns. In one instance he did not have the answer but was very quick to find out and got back to me.
In today's world, when it seems that politicians are the last person you can rely on, it is refreshing to know that you can count on Staub to return your phone calls and get answers to your questions in a timely manner. I don't even know what party he represents and I don't even think anyone is running against him, but it should be pointed out that he is doing his job and has my support.
Douglas Lyon
West Chazy
Inspired dynamic
TO THE EDITOR: This is an exciting time to be a resident of the Town of Beekmantown. Why? Finally, the registered voters in the Town of Beekmantown have a choice for electing a town supervisor when they go to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
And the choice is wonderful! Plain and simple, what North Country resident hasn't heard of Gary Peacock? Throughout the years, how many of us have enjoyed shopping at his store? Watching his funny commercials? How many of us have contacted him to DJ a wedding, graduation or important event in our lives? Gary Peacock, the man who is vibrant and creative and has owned and operated businesses in this area for 34 years and has the experience of creating jobs for local residents. Gary Peacock, the man who will bring to our town government a fresh perspective and inspired dynamic who is able to work respectfully with the citizens and fellow elected officials of the town.
Yes, this is an exciting time for the residents of Beekmantown. So on Tuesday, Nov. 3, make your voice heard and take the time to vote yes to leadership through teamwork, vote yes to open communication, vote yes to increased grant writing and vote yes to job creation for our town. On Tuesday, Nov. 3, vote yes to Gary Peacock for Beekmantown town supervisor — the candidate who has the experience and dedication to move our town forward.
Michelle Rowell
Plattsburgh
Respect for citizens
TO THE EDITOR: On Tuesday, Nov. 3, it will be time for the Town of Beekmantown residents to cast an important vote for their representative for Town Council. For all who have had the opportunity to meet Mike Morales, you've been able to share your concerns with him and witness the integrity that he'll bring to the council as your representative. For those who haven't yet met Mike Morales, it's important for me to send out this letter of endorsement.
Mike Morale has been a longtime resident of Beekmantown and has a true respect for all of Beekmantown's citizens. For years he has been an organizer of food drives for the Beekmantown food shelf and he has been an organizer of fundraisers for contributions to the Clinton County Christmas Bureau for Beekmantown families.
As an active member on the Beekmantown Technology Committee and the Beekmantown Board of Ethics, he is aware of the different issues facing the town. Once elected, he will be an effective and strong advocate for bringing greater opportunities to the citizens of Beekmantown.
Mike Morales is the best choice for Beekmantown. Join me on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, in casting your vote for Mike Morales for councilman.
Chris Rowell
Plattsburgh
Remarks don't add up
TO THE EDITOR: Little known facts. Some people have made some remarks that don't add up. Mr. Scozzafava claims to no longer be on the Essex County Republican Committee. A check of the records found that he never was elected to the committee. However he was once listed as an alternate with no voting power.
Mrs. Seney writes after the primary that you may vote for the "other" Republican? I just reviewed the ballot for the general election and there is only one Republican listed, Kristy Sprague. She also said that the two parties agreed on one candidate? To be correct, one party "picked" a candidate to be placed on the ballot while my party voted in the primary to place Kristy Sprague on the Republican line for the Nov. 3 election.
Shirley, you know that Kristy Sprague has no vendetta. In the election four years ago, she congratulated her opponent for winning the primary (which has yet to happen this time from her opponent) and did not pursue the position by seeking out another party.
Mr. Tim Sherman calls the Republican Primary a draw? One winner goes on the ballot, not two, again Kristy Sprague.
Mr. Boone claims to have checked a Web site and compared figures of the current DA and compared them to Clinton County. Sir, this isn't about the Clinton County DA's record, it is about our county's poor record.
Finally to you Mr. Mullen, I did not perjure myself, then or now, or ever. You should familiarize yourself with the all facts or be present in the courtroom before rambling on about something you apparently know nothing about. Try fixing your town politics before you jump over to my county where you don't vote. My vote stays with the Republican, Conservative and independent candidate for district attorney, Kristy Sprague.
Polly Belanger
Housewife, mother, grandmother
Willsboro
Standards very high
TO THE EDITOR: As deputy town clerk for Peru, I have a complete understanding for the role and demands of the position of town clerk. I have been amazed at the amount of hours that Kathy Flynn works for our town outside of the hours set for her by the Town Board. Most residents do not realize that many times she is at the Town Hall very early in the morning or late in the evening as well as on the weekends.
I know this to be the case as I have met her there many times and I also see the times when marriage, dog, and hunting licenses are issued. This is a matter of public record, so anyone can view this information. During tax season the hours worked become even longer due to the sheer volume of tax bills processed and extended evening office hours. A simple phone call and she is available if you need her. Anyone who thinks that Kathy Flynn works limited hours has been misinformed and is sadly mistaken.
I have also witnessed Kathy go above and beyond to help people in the town. She is friendly and willing to assist others even if it is not in her department. It is obvious how she genuinely cares about the people of this town.
I have also been impressed with her professionalism and impeccable financial record-keeping. In working in her office I have seen that her standards are very high and integrity is very important to her. She is the lowest paid town clerk in the area, she works long hours, does a great job, and she saves the town thousands of dollars by not taking the health insurance option. She is worthy of our thanks and support on Election Day.
leeAnne Ruff
Peru
Can improve town
TO THE EDITOR: Let's face it, when you are campaigning for a town-level elected position, you need to vote for the person and not the party. I would like to encourage Beekmantown voters to cast their highway superintendent vote for Sam Dyer.
In having known Sam and wife, Mary, for 20-plus years, I believe the town government would be improved with Sam elected as the superintendent. Sam has exhibited good leader in his role as an elected committee member administering federal farm programs for Clinton and Essex counties, as he understands labor and equipment issues and he knows what is important to taxpayers and how to budget tax dollars. He never spends tax dollars carelessly or foolishly.
Anyone who operates both a well-managed vegetable farm and a dairy farm simultaneously knows exactly what it takes to confront both bad weather and when, where and what it takes for improvements that are needed to your highways.
If you consider the number of acres of road surface in the town of Beekmantown, Sam can improve the town, as he is accustom to managing two businesses with more total land in comparison to acres of highway, for the past 20 years. He'll be able to do more with less tax dollars and he respects private property.
So vote for Sam Dyer for Beekmantown highway superintendent.
donald LaPierre
Mooers Forks
Character, professional
TO THE EDITOR: The Town of Peru has been forced to go about its business under a cloud of unbelievable frustration. You could argue that the blame could be shared by many.
Peru needs leaders that understand how to tackle tough issues, gather information, participate fully in good debate and most importantly, realize that the town is more important than those running it. In short, having no misconceived agenda, in my opinion, any deviation from this formula will hinder the growth and prosperity that Peru has always been known for.
There has been one person that has gone about her business with professionalism and character and that person is Kathy Flynn. Despite a work environment that wasn't always enjoyable, Kathy did her job with a high level of excellence. Kathy's reports to the county treasurer's office have been accurate and done in a timely manner. It takes a certain personality in this position of town clerk to be as effective as Kathy has been.
I have a firsthand knowledge of what it takes to be an effective town clerk as my wife was in that position. I would watch her go down to her office after hours to complete her work for the day or to offer her services to people that needed immediate assistance for whatever reason. This part goes under the radar, but is part and parcel of being a good public servant.
Kathy has done this time and again and always with a smile and a high level of integrity. In my opinion, integrity and character mean everything.
With this upcoming election Peru will be going through change, it just makes sense to continue with a person like Kathy, based on her past performance to continue as town clerk. Please support Kathy Flynn on Election Day.
Alan Stafford
Plattsburgh
'Fall into Pink'
TO THE EDITOR: On Sept. 27 the Plattburgh Sunrise Rotary held the 2nd-annual "Fall into Pink" motorcyle ride, dinner, auction fundraiser. We would like to thank the Sheriff's Department, Plattsburgh City PD and American Legion Riders for assisting with traffic control. Thank you to Richard Carpenter for organizing the 100-mile ride and the Hollywood for our pit stop. Thank you to all who donated items for the auction or those that purchased mile markers.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to Weasel Bruno, our audioneer, the Boobie Sisters for the awesome entertainment, 97.5 Eagle Country for 4 hours of live broadcast, Olive Ridley's, Dunkin Donuts, Courtyard Marriot, Maggy Pharmacy, Peru Pharmacy, Vermont Toy and Hobby, Prell's Custom Design, Champlain Valley Electric, Big Apple Audio, Perrywinkle's, Smoked Pepper, Meyer's Gifts, Payson and Stoughton's, Tattoos by Vincent, Bill's Tattooing, Lake Shore Chocolates, Arnie's Restaurant, Window Dressing, Villari's, Cutting Connection, Lola's Closet, High Peaks Dental, McBride's Chevrolet and Subaru, Classy Images, VFraas, Ernie's Discount, Curtis Lumber, Dr. Jake DeSnyder, Taste of the Adirondacks, General Trading Co., Planned Parenthood, It's All Good, Auto Zone, AuSable Chasm, The Wild Center, Butcher Block, Adirondack Museum, Gary and Matthew Favro, Jack Brown, Priscilla Hammond, Robert and Mary Durocher, Kathy Eppler, Jennifer Barrett Massages, Lehr Land Surveyors, Northern Corridor FCU, Northern Sanitation, Wood Grain, Jack Stone Painting, Eye Care for the Adirondacks, Commercial Site Services, Plattsburgh Ford, Suzie Homemaker, Thomas J. LaBombard, Paul and Priscilla Raino, Hulbert Bros., CVPH, Lake City Choppers, UUP/NYSUT, Clinton Correctional NYSCOPBA, Champlain National Bank and In Memory of Irene Payne.
Thank you to all the bike riders that came out in nasty weather to support this cause. And, of course our thanks to Bob Parks and the Press-Republican for reporting on this event — publicity really makes an event, rain or shine!
Linda C. Carpenter
Plattsburgh
Saved lots of money
TO THE EDITOR: I would like to let the people of the Town of Peru know how important it is to re-elect Michael Farrell as the Town of Peru highway superintendent. Michael has saved the taxpayers a lot of money by leading his staff in the process of creating an additional soccer field at the Town Park, paving of manholes for the Water & Sewer Department, paving of four miles of traveled highway for safety purposes, installing additional Stop signs to reduce traffic incidents in the township of Peru.
In addition to all of the above projects, Michael was instrumental in working with Op-Tec in the removal of two leaking fuel tanks from the Highway Garage, which could have created thousands of dollars worth of fines.
Thank you Michael for taking the initiative to find this hazard. I am hopeful that all citizens of Peru will vote for Michael Farrell for highway superintendent.
I have known Michael for almost 20 years and you would not find a more knowledgeable person for this position along with the energy to get the job done efficiently.
Chris Houser
Peru
Honest, dedicated
TO THE EDITOR: I have known Pete Glushko and his family for 26 years. The residents of Peru now have an opportunity to elect a man to the office of town supervisor who is honest and dedicated to making our town a special place to live.
Pete is a retired U.S.A.F. Lt. Col., having served our country honorably for 23 years. He is well educated and is a substitute teacher in Peru and Beekmantown. He is involved in many community activities.
One of his goals is to restore the Peru town government to the respected position it once had in Clinton County.
Please give the Town of Peru a leader that we have needed for so long. Vote for Pete Glushko on Election Day. He is a man of integrity.
Roy Perry
Peru
Dedication, determined
TO THE EDITOR: I am writing to ask for your support of Kristy Sprague for Essex County district attorney in the upcoming election on Nov. 3, 2009.
I have known Kristy for the past 15 years and have witnessed firsthand her ability to get things done. Her dedication, perseverance and resolve are constant and her values strong.
Her 11 years as prosecutor with extensive and successful trial experience speaks for itself.
It is time for change, and I hope that you will give Kristy the opportunity to demonstrate her competence and skills as Essex County district attorney.
Patricia M. Rushby
Port Henry
Impeccable job
TO THE EDITOR: This letter is in support for Sam Dyer, running for highway superintendent in Beekmantown.
Sam has successfully run a dairy farm and Shields Vegetable Stand for many years. In his position of businessman, he has supervised employees in a fair and equitable manner. As a businessman, Sam has had to keep a handle on expenses to keep these businesses financially sound. This has been no easy task over the past few years.
I am sure that he will do the same impeccable job for the town of Beekmantown as highway superintendant.
So, give him two thumbs up and vote for Sam Dyer on Election Day!
Cindy Dominy
West Chazy
Highly qualified
TO THE EDITOR: This year, the people of Clinton County have an opportunity to vote for county treasurer.
Martin Mannix is someone who is highly qualified for the job. His background includes teacher, active politician and a 36-year career at Northern Insurance Agency.
He is, and has been involved in numerous community organizations and agencies including; Rotary, Mission of Hope, Mountain Lake PBS, Pine Harbour, Lake Forest and Stop DWI, to name a few.
Marty's dedication to family, church, school and community is very evident.
On Nov. 3, 2009, vote Martin Mannix for Clinton County treasurer. He is ready, willing and able to serve all the people!
Mary Nisoff
Peru
Help with concerns
TO THE EDITOR: Help to elect Mike Morales for the Beekmantown Town Council.
Mike Morales currently serves on the Beekmantown Town Ethics Committee. He has been directly involved with the establishment of a Web site for the Beekmantown Board; enabling all citizens of Beekmantown to be more informed of the everyday functions of the Beekmantown town government.
Through this Web site connection
Mike Morales envisions being more aware of the concerns of all Beekmantown residents and to help them with their concerns.
William H. Klock
Morrisonville
Created jobs
TO THE EDITOR: Elect Gary R. Peacock for town supervisor of Beekmantown.
Gary Peacock has been a successful businessman in the North Country for 34 years, creating over 100 jobs for local residents. With his background and business experience Gary Peacock is well prepared to oversee Beekmantown town government.
Gary Peacock's successful business experienced everyday dealings with the public that will enable him to better relate to the needs of Beekmantown.
Anna Mae Klock
Morrisonville
Experience, hard worker
TO THE EDITOR: Dennis Relation brings experience and a long term degree of commitment to fiscal responsibility. His nearly 22 years on the Town Board gives him the proven experience to make tough decision on behalf of the citizens of Beekmantown.
If you would like a person who has honesty, integrity and the conviction to do the right thing for Beekmantown. Please vote for Dennis Relation on Election Day.
Justin Stewart
Plattsburgh
We deserve I-98
TO THE EDITOR: Recently, our city councilors discussed a request of the Northern Corridor Transportation Group, to offer symbolic support for a long proposed "rooftop highway." It would mirror U.S. Route 11 with the western end being Watertown, N.Y., and the eastern end would be somewhere adjacent to I-87 or a bridge over Lake Champlain.
The Northern Corridor group has requested Sen. Gillibrand to request $800 million to get the project started calling it Interstate-98. A great idea, but let's look at a bigger picture. Get out your highway atlas and plot a trip from the end of I-98 to the Atlantic Ocean, or Augusta or Portland, Maine, or a fresh lobster dinner on the Atlantic.
Now that you have your map out, it would appear that there are only two U.S. highway routes that get you to the lobster party. Trace U.S. 1 or U.S. 302 as it travels east and crosses three states and look at the routing that your AAA help would have to trace, and the route that you must drive to get to the food!
I traveled that route two weeks ago and followed the route, and believe me it is the same route of many ages ago with few improved sections. How about spending a few more billions and pick up I-98 at the Rouses Point bridge and point the highway toward Augusta or Portland or your rented cabin on the coast of Maine or, the lobster party you looked forward to?
Have you traveled over U.S. 2 or U.S. 302 going cast through New England? It is almost faster to go to "real" England! Don't we deserve I-98 as soon as our senator gets the check?
Perhaps, a dream ...
Bob Bergevin
Plattsburgh
