To the Editor:

I recently went to the Bestway Store in Old Lyme to purchase milk.  I was stunned to see “Drug Paraphernalia” on several shelves as I walked into the store.  In all honesty I probably should have just walked out without purchasing my milk … long story short, I did not.

As I waited to be checked out, I thought I should tell the person behind the register that I am really unhappy that this merchandise has found a home in this store.  However, before I could come up with what I felt were appropriate words, I paid and left.  Now I am feeling guilty.  I still have not come up with an appropriate sentence, but feel as though I need community support to do something.  I am aware that the internet has made acquisition of anything imaginable available to our youth … but I am still upset to see these things available right in my “own back yard.”

I have been told that it is not illegal to sell these items as long as there is not “drug residue” on said item.  However, I am sure I will not go back to buy milk at Bestway until I learn that the owner has stopped selling these products and has permanently removed them from his stock.

I strongly recommend that others, who feel as I do, stop patronizing Bestway, Old Lyme, for all the things they usually go there to purchase.  Obviously, we have given them too much financial support since they are at a point where they can purchase products,  which harm our community at large.

Please stop supporting this retailer until he disposes of these items so we as parents have a little more control of what our children purchase when they are not in our immediate care.

Sincerely,

Kathy Bartus,
Old Lyme