Here are recent "Letters to the Editor" of "North Country This Week." Letters should be 400 words or fewer and are subject to editing. They can be e-mailed to Letters@NorthCountryNow.com, faxed to 268-8701, mailed to P.O. Box 975, Potsdam, NY 13676 or dropped off at our office, 19 Depot St., Potsdam.

Could get more foster parents with new approach

To the Editor:

Not long ago, my husband and I tried to adopt a foster child in St Lawrence County. We were eager, so I went personally to the Department of Social Services in Canton.

After passing through the metal detector, I explained the reason for my visit to the secretary. I waited for awhile, then was told by the same secretary that this type of business is carried out over the phone, not in person. I should return home and call the number she gave me. I did, and got no answer. I left a message on the answering machine and waited a few days. Again I got no response, again left a message. This continued for about 3 weeks, at which point I gave up, thinking “I guess we’re not meant to foster a child at this time.”

Since then, I have had opportunities to speak to others who did manage to adopt foster children. To a person, everyone found it a very rewarding experience that they highly recommended. I asked if it was ever overwhelming or too challenging. The surprising answer, more often than not, was that most frustrations arose from the need to interact with the Department of Social Services.

If the DSS wishes to increase the number of foster parents in St Lawrence County (“Foster Parents In Short Supply, More Sought,” May 7-13), it seems to me that it need look no further than the way it carries out its business. A more friendly and encouraging approach to foster parents and potential foster parents, and I am sure their ranks will fill up in no time.

Monique Tirion
Potsdam


No place for ATVs in Town of Canton

To the Editor:

I am a 16 year old who owns a four-wheeler and is aggravated on how we have no places to ride.

I would like to know why the Town of Canton has no roads posted for four-wheelers when towns close to them do, such as Russell, Hermon and I believe Edwards.
The town takes very poor care of their back roads such as the Pike Road. That road is in very poor condition and in my opinion it would be a lot easier to travel that road with a four-wheeler.

What does Canton have to stand out and be the only town that has no four-wheeler posted roads even though they take poor care of them? If they are worried about the four wheelers destroying the roads they are wrong, because they don’t care how the roads are anyways.

I also wonder why should we have to register our ATVs when we have nowhere to ride them. Canton needs to make changes to help let the people who own ATVs have a place to ride. What, is Canton jealous?

They think if they don’t own a ATV others should have no place to ride them. Canton needs to smarten up and open either some ATV trails or at least post a few roads so ATVs have a place to go. What are the differences between the people who have UTVs such as the Rhinos can ride on town roads and there is no difference between them and ATVs.

Canton seems to be a little biased if you were to ask me. I believe the town does it to stand out. They always have to be different. It is very aggravating to me and others who own ATVs.

Allen Blackmer
Pyrites


NNCS board candidate introduces himself

To the Editor:

My name is Joe Kardash and I am running for a seat on the Norwood-Norfolk Board of Education. For those of you who don’t know me, please allow me to give you a little background:

I first came to the North Country when I attended Clarkson University. After graduating with my B.S. in Technical Communications, I moved to Poughkeepsie and worked for IBM for over four years. While there, I received my M.S. in Computer Science from Marist College. I worked briefly for an Internet startup company before returning to the North Country seven years ago for family reasons. My career interest in education began when my wife, Caralee, began teaching in Malone and I took a position at St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES Seaway Tech as a teacher aide. Currently, I am employed at Colton-Pierrepont Central as Microcomputer Coordinator and Athletic Director. I recently completed a school administration program at SUNY New Paltz and received my New York State School District Business Leader Certification.

My decision to run for the school board this year is based on a belief that my experience and understanding of education law and finance will be beneficial to our district. My interest is in contributing to a long-term vision for a sound education within our district because my two-year-old son will soon be joining many of your children at NNCS. Our school needs to continue to provide the personalized education that only a small district can provide. Education should always be about the kids.

Most of us are aware that NNCS is facing several challenges at this time. There are no simple solutions and more tough decisions will need to be made. I believe that I have skills and experiences that will be helpful to the district face current and future challenges.

I look forward to seeing you at “Meet the Candidates” night sponsored by the PTSA on May 15 at the school library from 7 to 9 p.m. There are several qualified and dedicated candidates running this year, so please come and find out who you think will best contribute to the continued success of the district. You can then make an informed decision when you go to the polls on May 20.
Please e-mail me at jkardash@yahoo.com if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you.

Joseph Kardash
Norwood


Drug regulations need to be tightened

To the Editor:

How many more have to die before we get the labeling we need. The latest poisoned drug, Heparin, has killed nearly 100 and it is being reported that the contamination was deliberate.

I take the allergy drug Claritin sold generically as Loratadine. I have no ideas where the ingredients come from and like all other drugs never knowing when a bad batch, (uninspected) will appear. What are we going to do? We all know Heparin isn’t the end. It’s going to happen again and again. If someone or some group purposely contaminated Heparin’s ingredients and the FDA is aware of this, they are guilt of collusion. Collusion meaning secretly allowing imported ingredients to be used across the board, not knowing or caring whether contaminated.

The administration in office believes regulation hinders the viability of business. They have not properly funded agencies like FDA and most likely from their record have in other ways frustrated FDA’s ability to perform their mandate.

The problems we are experiencing in our nation seem to always trickle down from the top. The fact is our present government is not serving the public’s interest and the opposition is afraid of them. We are ruled by special interests. We have two governments – one of laws and one of special interests. We are in serious trouble.

Joe Stark
Norfolk


Many helped with Habitat walk-a-thon

To the Editor:

On Sunday, May 4, the Potsdam fundraising walk-a-thon for Raquette Valley Habitat for Humanity raised a total of $4,601, as of that date. The success of the project was due in large part to the many walkers and their sponsors, to the hardworking volunteers in all areas, and to the generosity of area residents and businesses.

Among the approximately 30 walkers were top money-raiser, Doug Theobald, and Joe Gibbs, second in that category. The trophy for the business raising the most money for Habitat will be awarded to Potsdam Pizza Hut.

Special thanks are given to the many businesses that made donations of cash, Wear on Earth for giving a gift certificate, and to Scoopuccino’s and Potsdam Rite-Aid for contributing supplies for the walk-a-thon. Thanks also to the New York State Police, the Potsdam University Police, and the Potsdam Village Police for providing crossing guards for the walkers on the second half of their walk.

We are also especially grateful to Rev. Jim Barnes and the members of the Potsdam United Methodist Church for their enthusiastic support. Thanks also to Bill Lewis, former coordinator, whose experience and support provided the momentum to get this year’s project underway.

Without the dedication of the walkers and the generosity of their sponsors, and the hard work of the many volunteers, including those helping with registration and volunteer forms, refreshment and water stops, and route safety (car patrols and volunteer crossing guards), this event would not have happened. Sincere thanks to every one of you for doing your part to make this Habitat fundraiser a success!

Bob and Sue Gibbs
Coordinators


Potsdam Chamber event success due to many

To the Editor:

The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Staff and Events and Festivals Committee would like express our sincerest gratitude to all who made our spring luncheon and silent auction on May 2 a success.

The staff of ARAMARK and Clarkson University was terrific to work with, providing an excellent atmosphere and meal. A special thank you to Dr. Tony Collins for welcoming us to campus; to Louann and Chip Cross of the Potsdam Big M for making the anniversary cake and to Karen Sidletsky and Bob Porter of Misty Hollow for providing anniversary balloons and candy.

Our silent auction was also very successful, Thank you to each and every business that donated an item. The 115 amazing items brought in bids totaling $3, 387. These funds will go toward the initial expenses associated with SummerFest.

We also want to congratulate Kim and Randy Sixberry of Great Northern Printing for being our Business of the Year. We also want to congratulate Hyde-Stone Mechanical, Rotary Club of Potsdam, The Potsdam Elks Lodge, The Potsdam Co-op, NCC Systems, Rose & Kiernan, Potsdam Tire & Auto, Living Stone’s Bookstore, North Country Public Radio, SeaComm FCU, KHS Rentals, as well as Great Northern Printing for celebrating milestone anniversaries this year.

Thank you to all who made this event a success. To learn more about this or any other chamber sponsored event, please contact Brenda Thornton, Executive Director at 274-9000 or via email at Potsdam@slic.com.

Brenda Thornton, Executive Director
Potsdam Chamber of Commerce


Helping Hands thanks Easter basket donors

To the Editor:

Helping Hands wishes to thank Save-A-Lot, P&C Foods and Woodruff Block Company for their support of our Easter Dinner Basket Program. We also thank the congregants of the Potsdam United Methodist Church, Trinity Episcopal Church and Norwood’s St. Philip’s Episcopal Church for their generous donations to help their neighbors in need.

We were grateful to serve 33 families (131 people, mostly children) with bountiful baskets full of good food.

We are thankful for the community support that makes this possible.

Helping Hands Ministry


Chamber thanks SUNY Potsdam soccer team

To the Editor:

The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce would like to send a big thank you to the members of the SUNY Potsdam Soccer team and Joe Vaadi for helping us with two projects this year.

We couldn’t have done it without you guys. Thanks again!

Jennifer Dunn
St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce


CSAs provide fresh local produce

To the Editor:

The federal tax rebate is going out electronically and paper checks will continue through the summer. The logic behind the rebate is for consumers to have a little extra cash in order to stimulate the economy. If you would like this stimulus payment to make a positive difference in your local community, please consider using part of yours to purchase a share in a local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm.

At a CSA farm, customers pay in advance for a share of the farm’s harvest. Then each week throughout the summer growing season and into the fall, these CSA shareholders go to an assigned location to pick up a box of freshly harvested produce. Some CSAs offer locally raised meats as well.

The health value of eating fresh food easily justifies the cost of membership. When you add the support to a local farm, where the farmer gets a fair price for their labor, and subtract the fossil fuels burned to ship food from far away producers, the true benefits of CSA membership are fully realized.

At GardenShare we’re working to build a North Country where all of us have enough to eat and enough to share -- where our food choices are healthy for us, for our communities, and for the environment. CSAs are an important part of this vision. We encourage you to take this opportunity to join a CSA near you. For a list of CSA farms operating in the North Country, go to www.gardenshare.org.

When the farmers receive some of your stimulus rebate, the money will continue to circulate through our local economy, providing the spark that the engine of our economy can really use.

Heather Sullivan-Catlin
President, GardenShare


Have to keep the school buses and plows running

To the Editor:

Everyone is up in arms about the increase in taxes. I am not happy either. However, fuel costs have gone up so much I can understand why government needs to find extra monies to keep the school buses and snow plows running. We simply could not expect the rise in fuel not to affect the budgets.

I hope that our friends and neighbors will continue to make the North Country beautiful despite the tax increase, It pains me to see the outside of a home in disarray and rubble maybe only to fool the tax assessor.

We all will have to make sacrifices due to the fuel costs. Despite hard times, we should still be proud to live in such a beautiful place and take our challenge head on.

I hope that the Potsdam Town Hall issue can be resolved. The town hall is cramped and crowded. I hope that the town will take a greener approach and not build a new building. We need to repair the one they are in and upgrade it.

A second site should be considered to split off other town offices. The Indian restaurant and the old frat house downtown are both empty.

How about spending millions in remodeling them and keeping these historic buildings beautiful?

Donna Wright
Norwood


Chamber, Youth Bureau start new young people’s program

To the Editor:

Our county is faced with high rates of poverty and limited opportunities for our future workforce. Meaningful and long term community change requires a true investment in our youth and young adult populations. These investments need to include access to higher education, leadership opportunities, and employment connections. Recently the Workforce and Professional Development Committee of the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce decided to take a stand regarding the fact that too many of our talented young people find employment and a life outside of St. Lawrence County.

In an effort to mitigate the exodus of our young the Discover Your Future Here Internship Program has been created to prepare young people 17 to 25 years of age for careers in the private sector. Interns will develop career goals, establish personal networks in jobs, build bridges from education to the local market, and encourage positive attitudes about the future workforce of the North Country. Summer internship stipends will be provided through the county Youth Bureau thanks to funding and support from the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators and the Tribal-State Compact Revenue funding.

I would like to thank the Workforce and Professional Development Committee for their perseverance in launching a pilot program that will benefit young adults. This effort is a genuine and timely response to a very serious situation.

Joanne Sevick, Director
St. Lawrence County
Youth Bureau


Cleanup Day went well in Potsdam

To the Editor:

On Saturday, April 19, the Potsdam Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Pride in Potsdam Cleanup Day. 230 volunteers from Clarkson University SUNY Potsdam and the community spent the day cleaning up Potsdam. Many of the volunteers were student athletes, members of the Greek community, and civic groups in Potsdam.

A special thank you is extended to the Village of Potsdam Department of Public Works, The Potsdam Rescue Squad, Marra’s Homecare, Kinney Drugs, Apt to Travel, Giant Tiger, VanNess Electric, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, The Clarkson Inn and Save-A-Lot for their generosity and donations.

For more information about this or other Chamber events please call Brenda Thornton, Executive Director of the Potsdam Chamber of Commerce at 274-9000.

Potsdam Chamber of Commerce


Legislator explains free tuition proposal

To the Editor:

I would like to thank NorthCountryNow.com for using my free tuition proposal as the basis for their recent poll. There are two quick clarifications that I would like to make.

First, the program is not based on financial need. The program would be open to all graduates from St. Lawrence County schools. A sliding scale based on years of attendance would be used to determine the percentage of benefit for each student. A student who attended St. Lawrence County schools for his or her entire education would receive the full tuition benefit. The tuition reimbursement at its highest level would offer the equivalent of in-state tuition at a SUNY school for a St. Lawrence County student attending a college in St. Lawrence County. It would not pay for the full tuition to St. Lawrence or Clarkson University.

Second, I see it as an economic development program and not a traditional service program. The question focused on whether this program would keep St. Lawrence County graduates in St. Lawrence County, but stemming the “brain drain” and creating a “brain gain” was a secondary benefit.

I read the comments that accompanied the poll results and completely agree with the overwhelming majority. Jobs are the main concern. My main reason for the proposal centered around creating jobs. By establishing a well-educated work force and a pool of entry-level workers who are tied to the county, we would make St. Lawrence County a more attractive place for new businesses whether they bring two new jobs or two hundred. Recent graduates with entrepreneurial spirit could also work with local small business development programs to start businesses in St. Lawrence County that would employ themselves and others.

In addition, I mentioned in session that this program could entice people who are associated with the developing areas near our county’s borders, Fort Drum and the Akwesasne/Brasher area, into working there and living here. That would mean local municipal, school, and county taxes for the property those people own, as well as increased sales tax for an increased population.

I believe in this program, but I would not raise county taxes to support it. I have mentioned an appeal to the state for support, similar to the method the state would use for a program involving Syracuse City Schools or to have the funds come from the New York Lottery because the lottery was created as a way to increase education funds. I have also asked our county administrator to review the money that we spend on programs for teens and see if we can use some of that money for this program.

We spend millions on the youth in this county and those dollars only touch approximately 10 percent of our youth population. This program would be available, fully or in part, to everyone coming through St. Lawrence County schools.

Again, thank you. If anyone would like more discussion on this matter, my email address and phone number are listed on the St. Lawrence County website.

Daniel J. Girard
St. Lawrence County Legislator
District 15


<CEO Scozzafava flying too high?

To the Editor:

I have been following the recent career of “local boy done good” Tom Scozzafava. He is the young CEO of Seaway Valley Capital, the company that merged the Wisebuys and Hacketts stores in the region last year, and is currently in the process of merging with North Country Hospitality.

It seems in all the whirlwind of financial activity, Mr. Scozzafava has forgotten us common shareholders...you know, the ones that are paying for all his high flyin’, wheelin’ and dealin’. Common shareholders, in some cases, have seen the stock price drop by as much as 98% since last fall. The share price today is less than 1/2 a penny, while outstanding shares have increased 600% since July of last year.

In my opinion it appears that Mr. Scozzafava, his sister Dede, and various other family members and friends are the only ones who stand to make anything on this venture, leaving common shareholders holding the bag for millions of dollars of company debt reduction, and if that wasn’t bad enough, Mr. Scozzafava seems to be either unable or unwilling to communicate with anyone who wants a straight answer about where this is all going to end.

If anyone up there in the beautiful North Country of upstate New York sees Tom, please inform him that he has a fiduciary responsibility to address shareholder concerns.

Timothy Mercier
SWVC shareholder
Champaign, Ill.

N-N board candidate urges voters to meet candidates

To the Editor:

My name is Kellie Smutz and I am running for the NNCS School Board. I was born in Buffalo, N.Y., attended SUNY Potsdam in 1987, where I graduated with a BA in psychology and have lived in the North Country since. My husband Chris, who is a co-owner of a business in Potsdam, and I have lived in Norwood since 1996. We have one son who attends NNCS.

I have worked in the human services field for more than 14 years. Over those years I worked in many different environments from running facilities for disabled adults, to advocating for families of children with disabilities to receive much needed services in their schools. I have always, and continue to be a strong voice for those who could not speak for themselves.

I came to the decision to run for a board of education seat after listening to countless community members, teachers, and non-instructional staff voice concerns not only at board of education meetings and in the newspapers, but in personal conversations with others who care deeply about our school, our children, and the current state of affairs at the school.

It is imperative that the contracts not only with the teachers, but also with the CSEA staff be settled fairly, expediently, and equitably in order to retain our current staff. Additionally, we also need to encourage future staff and programs, both scholastic and extra curricular, to become a part of the school system and teach our children in years to come.

There will be a “Meet The Candidates” night sponsored by the PTSA on May 15th at the school from 7 to 9 for anyone in the district who would like to know more about the views and direction of the candidates running. Please come out to meet us so you can make an informed decision.

I also encourage all able to vote in the district to come out on May 20 to vote in the board of education elections, and let your voices be heard.

Kellie A. Smutz
Norwood


First Responder’s turkey dinner a big success

To the Editor:

In a day and age when thank yous and sincere appreciations are sometimes brushed to the side, the West Potsdam Fire Department would like to let all those who came to our First Responder’s Turkey Dinner, held March 30, that they have not been overlooked.

For the first time, we sold out of food, and with that said, we would also like to take a moment to say we are sincerely sorry to those we had to turn away. Please do not let this discourage you from attending the next dinner.

In the first hour, we had served 140 dinners and there was a line to the door. In addition to the individuals, couples and families who came to sit and enjoy their meals, several people had takeout or delivered meals. Numerous supporters donated money and baked fresh pies to help with the expenses and they are greatly appreciated as well.

You all help make our meal possible. Thank you, thank you, and thank you.

With sincere gratitude,

The West Potsdam
Fire Department


Morristown playing fast and loose with Constitution

To the Editor:

Mrs. L. Kay Davis, Morristown Code Enforcement Officer, would have us believe that the Amish citizens of her town are bankrupting the community and putting it on the brink of lawlessness. In fact, her overzealous enforcement of the code has in no way benefited the Morristown community and has put the town at risk of violating the constitutional rights of its Amish citizens.

First, while it is unconstitutional to enact legislation that favors a particular religious group, it is also unconstitutional to enforce legislation in such a way that it adversely affects one particular religious community unless there is compelling interest on the part of the government to do so. Even then, enforcement must take the least invasive or restrictive approach. This principal, affirmed in a number of different court cases, helps to guarantee religious freedom for us all. Unfortunately, the town of Morristown has hardly demonstrated a compelling interest, nor has it demonstrated that the code as formulated is the only way in which to ensure that the town’s safety goals are met. Instead, the town seems to have concentrated on the Amish in its enforcement of code, a selective enforcement that clearly singles out a particular group on the basis of its religious beliefs.

Moreover, the suggestion Mrs. Davis makes (citing supposed citizen response) that ‘if the town gives one segment an exemption to the code, then nobody has to follow it’ is disingenuous at best. Clearly, there is not rampant violation of the law in the towns surrounding Morristown, including those in which the Amish population is much higher.

The Amish believe that government is instituted by God and, thus, that church members should respect and follow civil authority. The Amish point to Romans 13, in which Paul asserts that “The powers that be are ordained of God.” This gives the Amish a deep interest in working with civil authority to resolve conflicts in such a way that they can abide by civil law without violating their understanding of scripture. Compromise is the key, and the towns around Morristown have found that it works.

Morristown’s willingness to prosecute its citizens unnecessarily rather than to work with them to find a solution that would benefit all is clearly evident in the town’s failure to ensure the basic right that those who must appear in its courts be able to understand adequately the charges against them. Nearly a year ago, I provided the town with the addresses of two speakers of Pennsylvania German, neither of them Amish and both with native or near native fluency. In conversations with me, both agreed to make the trip to the North Country in exchange for travel expenses only. As a linguist who has published articles on Pennsylvania German, I informed town officials in July, 2007 that Pennsylvania German was quite different from standard German and that translation in standard German only was inadequate. The current translator is to be applauded for working hard to ensure that the Amish understand the proceedings. Nevertheless, the town’s failure to contact either of the Pennsylvania German speakers, thus denying the Amish easy access to an adequate translation of the legal proceedings against them, suggests the town’s lack of commitment to finding a just solution.

Mrs. Davis and other town officials may believe that they can force the Amish to comply with codes, even though those codes unnecessarily require the Amish to violate certain tenets of their faith. They will fail. In their attempt to live a Christian life, the Amish will not go against the church-community’s understanding of how scripture is to be put into practice and how the community will be and act in accordance with God’s established order. They will leave the Morristown community. Perhaps this is what Mrs. Davis and the others have been seeking all along.

Finally, I am surprised at the vehemence of some of my fellow North Country residents who seem to believe that the Amish are looking for some kind of special treatment, an attitude the Morristown officials have actively pandered to. We should remember that the Amish are hardly the only ones who have ever sought building code variances (not even in Morristown). The Amish are, like many of their neighbors, simply attempting to live a God-fearing life. That it may not be the same as yours or mine will challenge our commitment as a people to guaranteeing religious freedom and the right to religious diversity.

Karen M. Johnson-Weiner
Canton


Superintendent addresses turf lead concerns

To the Editor:

There have been recent reports in the media about the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s investigation into possible health hazards of lead in artificial turf fields. As the Potsdam Central School District is in the process of installing a synthetic field as part of the capital project, we want to assure the Potsdam community there are no lead issues with the new field.

The concern was recently raised in the state of New Jersey when two fields were closed after state health officials detected high levels of lead in the synthetic turf and feared athletes could inhale dust or fibers from the playing surface. These nylon fields are still under investigation but a subsequent testing of 10 polyethylene fields such as the one to be installed at PCS were found to be negative. The lead in the nylon fields is reportedly caused by a pigment containing lead chromate which is used to make the grass green and hold its color in sunlight. This process of infusing lead chromate is not used on the polyethylene surface being installed at PCS. According to ATurf, the company from Cheektowaga that will be producing our artificial field, “There is no scientific evidence of a health risk for children or adults based on recent test results and current knowledge of the chemical structure of aged synthetic turf products.” This conclusion is based on the work of doctors of forensic toxicology and synthetic organic chemistry.

The multipurpose turf field at Potsdam Central School is scheduled to be opened in August of this year. We look forward to providing this quality facility for our students and the Potsdam community for many years to come. If there are further questions regarding the lead issue, please call 265-2000, ext. 733.

Patrick Brady, Superintendent of Schools
Potsdam Central School

Willing to be educated why 3 governments needed

To the Editor:

The lead article in a recent Watertown Daily Times calling for consolidation of local government addresses something I have wondered about ever since my migration to New York State in 1968. In my native New England there are no incorporated villages, only towns and cities.

Counties have courts but do not have legislatures and I don’t recall any county police force. Here we have three layers of local government. Why is this necessary? I realize there has to be a separate tax structure for those in the water/sewer district but does this necessitate a whole separate governing structure complete with justices and courts?

Maybe there is a good reason for this and I’m willing to be educated.

Arthur L. Johnson
Potsdam

Former teacher wants to face N-N’s problems

To the Editor:

My name is Sheila Burns, and I am running for the Norwood-Norfolk School Board. For those who do not know me, I thought this would be a good way to introduce myself.

I was born in Syracuse, attended school at Clifton-Fine, and later graduated from Saranac Lake Central School. After school, I attended Ithaca College for a semester before I transferred to SUNY Potsdam. I earned my bachelor’s degree in english literature, and a master of science in secondary English education. Soon after that, I married my husband Thomas.

Since the early nineties, my husband and I have worked in the field of education in one form or another. I taught at Lowville Academy and Central School for two years, and then we relocated to the North Country, settling in Norwood, where I obtained a teaching position at Lisbon Central School for six years. The past few years I have stayed home with my youngest child, and now work part time in the field of literacy. We have lived in Norwood for almost ten years, and have two daughters. Eleanor is nine and attends Norwood-Norfolk. Lucienne is three.

Norwood-Norfolk is in the midst of trying to work through some tough financial circumstances. We should understand that the current administration desires to overcome the financial obstacles we are facing, but this will not be easy and will require the community’s support. It took years for us to get into the shape we are currently in, and our problems will not be solved overnight. I believe it will take us several years, at a minimum, of diligence, patience, and careful budgeting to restore our school to fiscal health. As a community, we may face increased taxes in the short term; however, in the long term this could result in a more stable and predictable tax rate. Positions may continue to be cut as the school district tightens its belt, and enrollment continues to decline. All of these scenarios create hard feelings, and can pit certain groups against one another. However, if all parties can agree to always put what is best for children first, then we will be on the right track. There is a light at the end of this tunnel. If elected, I will work hard to help our stakeholders in terms of wise budgeting. I will always work to create and maintain programs to benefit our children.

The teachers’ contract must be settled; that is vital. I am hoping that it will be settled before the elections, but if not, and I am elected, I will be a strong advocate for reaching an agreement. A continuing hold-out by both sides only serves to hurt the students.

I have volunteered at NNCS over the past few years. We have a beautiful physical facility and wonderful teachers. I have long wanted to become more involved in the school, and I finally decided to take the leap and run for the board of education. I want to be a part of the solution to our issues, not one who merely talks about our problems. I would be honored to receive your vote on May 20th.

Thank you.

Sheila Burns


Board candidate wants better communication

To the Editor:

My name is Lisa Levison and I am running for a seat on the Norwood-Norfolk Central School Board of Education. My husband, Ted, and I are lifelong residents of Norwood and 1989 graduates of NNCS (go Flyers!). We have three children attending NNCS, one in the elementary, one in the middle, and one in the high school.

I am choosing to run for the board of education because I feel that I can make a difference. I want to help empower people who feel their concerns are not being heard. There are several rumors circulating throughout the community regarding finances, cuts, and other serious problems at NNCS and frankly many of us feel helpless. I want to eliminate that feeling by increasing communication between the board of education, administration, and us, the public.

In an effort to bridge the communication gap, I recently collected questions from community members that were answered at a public forum by the superintendent, business manager, and several school board members. In a further effort, I would also like to see the school board’s minutes posted on the school’s website or in the newspaper so that those of us who are unable to attend the board meetings are still informed, because knowledge is power. I believe we should all have the power and opportunity to be heard, and the first step is an open line of communication with the school board and administration.
I am a mother who has an open mind and a willingness to listen and learn from the experts. Those experts are you – the teachers, the parents, the non-instructional staff, and our community. Anyone who knows me knows I will be heard. If you want to be heard, email your concerns to me at llevison@twcny.rr.com and together we can make a difference. I sincerely thank you in advance for your vote on May 20th, 2008.

Lisa Levison


Renewal House volunteers aid 655 over the last year

To the Editor:

National Volunteer Week is April 27 – May 3, 2008. It is a time to recognize the many volunteers who give their time and expertise without expecting monetary compensation. It is these individuals that make many educational, health, cultural, and human service programs work.

Renewal House would like to thank the many volunteers who donate their time assisting domestic violence victims in St. Lawrence County. Their willingness to be part of our agency enables us to continue to reach out to those in need in our community. With over 3,050 documented volunteer hours we were able to provide assistance to 655 adults and children last year.

Volunteers at Renewal House provide crisis intervention, emotional support, advocacy, information and referrals, child care/child recreation, and even assist individuals into emergency safe housing. They also organize fundraisers to provide us with needed supplies from our wish list or donate the proceeds from the special event.

No matter how you volunteer your time or efforts, you have inspired and encouraged many people who did not know their community cared about them.
Thank you for making domestic violence your business.

Ilene J Burke, Executive Director
Renewal House

Former state Senator Wright not fit to lead

To the Editor:

Former Senator James Wright has indicated he’s considering running for Senate again. He isn’t fit for office and doesn’t deserve the privilege.

When I voted for him I expected him to represent the people of northern New York, and to do so for his entire term. It’s likely fair to say that many northern New York voters assumed he’d do his best for us, and do so for the full term. However, he resigned his position mid-term, abandoning his constitutents and causing an expensive mid-term special election. He didn’t leave office for reasons of health, family, or unexpected personal tragedy; he left for more lucrative opporrtunties elsewhere. I was disgusted and disappointed that he didn’t complete his term and instead chose personal gain over responsibility and commitment. Wright’s personal motto must evidently be “It’s all about me.”

Now, a mere two months later, he’s indicating he wants to return to office. I say he isn’t worthy of the position, and cannot be trusted with the office. How long before he abandons his post for greener pastures this time?

Dale Petry
Canton

Fair trade movement celebration May 10

To the Editor:

On May 10, the world will celebrate World Fair Trade Day. This celebration will occur in 70 countries around the world. Locally, Asian World Imports will be celebrating this day with a variety of events.

Many people may be wondering what “fair trade” is. Fair trade is not the same as free trade. Fair trade is an organized social movement and market-based approach to alleviating global poverty and promoting sustainability. The fair trade movement promotes payment of a fair price as well as social and environmental standards in areas related to the production of goods. In the words of Paul Rice of TransFair, “Fair trade makes free trade and globalization work for the poor.” Fair trade businesses commit to the following: pay fair wage and provide opportunity particularly for women and disadvantaged, engage in environmentally sustainable practices, builds long-term relationships, discourages exploitive child labor and works to promote community and respect cultural identity. Most people may think of fair trade with chocolate and coffee, but many household items, gifts, clothing and others can be purchased with the Fair Trade label.

From first-hand experience we know fair trade products are made from renewable and natural materials, promote gender equity, discourage child prostitution and keep families together in communities with a way to make a living. In the age of global warming and other environmental crises, fair trade products are one way to make a difference. Truly “Think Globally, Act Locally” is a meaningful statement. Please visit our shop or go to fairtradefederation.org for more information.

This years’ World Fair Trade theme is “Fair Trade and the Environment”. We encourage you to join us on May 10 – 11 for a variety of events. Please call us at 714-2119 for more information.

Robin and David Crowell
Asian World Imports
Canton

Congressional candidate says torture
is counterproductive

To the Editor:

Could any one of us have foreseen the coming of a time when the cold-blooded torture of suspects by American governmental officials would be the subject of a national debate?

ABC News recently reported that President Bush revealed his awareness that his National Security Advisers had approved of the use of ruthless interrogation techniques. VP Dick Cheney has expressed the opinion that water boarding is a “no-brainer”.

Our Founding Fathers recognized that torture has no place in a free country and made it illegal under the Constitution. From childhood, our churches and schools teach us that it is just plain wrong. Not only is it wrong, it doesn’t work! Torture does produce information conveniently and quickly. Unfortunately, unlike fiction on TV, that information is usually wrong. Torture doesn’t work because the subject, if guilty, has been trained to give misleading answers, or if innocent, will tell the torturers whatever he or she thinks they want to hear.

President Bush and his Republican allies that stand by these shameful practices like to play on our fear by telling Americans that torture is necessary to our protection and it’s only done to keep us safe. This could not be further from the truth; the costs far outweigh the benefits. Our military has repeatedly testified that our use of torture will lead to its increased use by enemies on our troops. Experts agree that much of our struggle in Iraq results from our failure to win the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people. The adoption of torture by this administration as a tool lost us this battle. It has done nothing more than strengthen the morale of the militants and make it easier for them to recruit new members.

Do some of our enemies commit atrocities on our soldiers, yes, but America needs to take the high road. How can we simultaneously call ourselves the champions of democracy and engage in this barbarism?

By the adoption of these techniques, this Administration and its Republican collaborators in Congress have once again tied themselves to the most ineffective means of accomplishing their ends. They have distanced themselves from the very allies we need to effectively combat terrorism, and, most importantly, from our basic values of what it means to be an American.

Like it or not, torture is being committed in the name of all Americans and sullies all of our reputations around the globe. Like the internment of the Japanese during WWII, history will not look kindly upon this savagery. When my grandchildren read about this dark chapter in their history books I want to look them in the eye and let them know that I stood up to fight it. I urge you to support my fight to return America to a place where we are governed rather than ruled; a place where we can be proud of our leaders and their actions.

As your Congressman, I will work tirelessly to restore the honor and dignity of America in the eyes of the world.

Mike Oot, candidate
23rd Congressional District


Account of Clarkson building meetings disputed

To the Editor:

As the spokesperson of the group that met with President Collins and Karen Collins in 2005 with regards to Old Main, I would like to make it clear that Mr. Hockman’s account (“Plan For Clarkson Buildings Downtown Was Rejected,” April 9-15) is a misrepresentation of our meetings with President Collins and Karen Collins. Contrary to Mr. Hockman’s report, our presentation was greeted with interest and utmost respect. Furthermore, Mr. Hockman was never a member of our group nor was he ever present at any of our meetings.

Elisabeth Cain
Assistant Director of Alumni Relations
Clarkson University
Potsdam

Editor’s Note: Since the letter “Plan for Clarkson Buildings Was Rejected” was published on April 9, the author has acknowledged the name “John Hockman” is a pseudonym and has refused to reveal his or her real name. North Country This Week regrets failing to confirm the author’s identity before publishing the letter. It is against our policy to publish letters with pseudonyms.


118th district hopeful Lucas offers introduction

To the Editor:

Let me introduce myself. My name is Donald J. Lucas from Massena. I have been registered as an Independent as well as a resident of St. Lawrence County all my life. I am 54-years-old and was raised in Madrid. My father was an honest hard-working man who worked for the Town Highway Department, was a veteran of the Army and a fireman. My mother was a shift-working factory worker and is still very active with the Legion Auxiliary.

While never having held a position in public office, I have an interest in running for assemblyman in the 118th Assembly District. All my life I have been active as a volunteer with the following organizations: area chairman for Ducks Unlimited (seven years), Big Brothers (since the mid 1970’s), Red Cross, St. Lawrence County Fish Advisory Board (third term), Remediation Action Planning Committee (clean-up contamination on-site Alcoa in Massena, since 1989), Citizens Advisory Board (clean-up of Grasse River Massena), citizen participant for relicensing of the New York Power Authority, and an advocate for those with physical limitations.

For 30 years, I was employed with Alcoa in Massena and a member of the Steel Workers Local 420 Union.

I have been retired since 2004. While at Alcoa, I was elected union representative to Joint Safety and Health, as well as a Safety Advisor.

Besides holding a full-time job since 1973, I incorporated in 1988 and have been running a fishing and sightseeing charter boat ever since. I am a licensed Master with the United States Coast Guard.

I raised one daughter and have four grandchildren.

With my experience and commitment to my community, as a parent, business owner, wage-earner, and taxpayer, I feel I would make an excellent candidate and seek your party’s endorsement. I will be seeking signatures from all parties as 1,500 signatures are required to run as an Independent.

Please contact me if you would lend your support to sign my petition. I have been speaking to various sporting and civic organizations and would welcome an invitation to talk to your group as to my intentions and what I feel are very important issues. You can contact me at 769-7683 or muskieny@twcny.rr.com or check out my business at www.muskiemagic.com.

Donald J. Lucas
Massena

McFaddin thanks Norwood for chance to serve again

To the Editor:

Thank you Norwood residents for your support in our recent election. I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve each of you.

To Terry Steinburg, thank you for a good campaign. To the many who worked to get the vote out, your hard work paid off. Thank you all!

Congratulations to Jim Besaw and Dick Liscum for their success in being elected trustees; also to Harold Chapin who received good support in his first attempt at elective office.

Norwood Village has good employees as well as dedicated elected officials who face many challenges ahead.

For example, soon work will begin to install a pipeline to our school that will allow the village to provide water to the school and our children.

Mid-June bids will be let to improve our aging sewer system, an expensive but necessary project.

The village is working with St. Lawrence County to secure a $400,000 grant to improve village homes.

The village has adopted Town of Potsdam assessments that will ensure fair assessments for all. Some assessments will increase and some will decrease as this new system is put in place.

Voters approved a new pumper fire truck that will affect property taxes, but it was needed and will serve residents for many years.

Norwood Village is a great place to live and raise a family and I look forward to working with you to keep it that way.

Jim McFaddin, Mayor-Elect
Norwood