To the Editor:

Having attended [Monday] night’s [Old Lyme] Selectmen’s debate, this unaffiliated voter sums up the outcome as follows:

The candidates for Select-person Reed and Lampos were impressive, their responses to all questions were well stated leaving no doubt as to their position on the subject.  One could almost feel their passion for wanting to serve the town and willingness to hear all sides of the matter at hand. The candidates for First Select-person Mesham and Shoemaker were, to say it kindly, less impressive with typical canned wishy-washy responses to the questions.

The issue where there was a definite divide between the R’s and D’s was the issue of Halls Road. The D’s like the grand plan that would remake Halls Road into a dense mixed-use neighborhood that would forever change the character of Old Lyme. The R’s position is that the Halls Road Improvement Committee have gone way beyond the original mandate of sidewalks and lighting improvements and are against the grand plan.

Whichever party wins the majority of Select-person positions in this upcoming election will most likely decide which direction Halls Road will take.  Voters have a clear choice here, grand plan or sidewalks and lighting. Hopefully voters will not let party affiliation blind them into making the wrong choice. 

Sincerely,

William Folland,
Old Lyme.

To the Editor:

Recent events in our nation’s Congress, including the chaos and paralyzation caused by the Republican majority’s inability to govern, serve to remind us that our voice is crucial in protecting our republic. It is imperative to exercise your right to vote armed with knowledge and serious contemplation of the issues you care most about. 

As one former Speaker of the House noted, all politics are local.  I agree. Unless we can elect representatives at the local level who genuinely believe in the fundamental principles of our constitution, and the steadfastness to put the people’s interests before their own, we are lost.  Vote on November 7th, for candidates who will affirmatively act to represent those things you hold most dear.  For me, it is about my grandchildren and electing candidates who take seriously the stewardship over their future.  Among other things this includes the quality of public education and the environment, the fundamental right to vote, the freedom to read and contemplate provocative ideas, the right to make informed choices about their healthcare, and the right to be who they are without suffering the stymying effects of prejudice and discrimination.

As an attorney and student of government it is stunning to me that we have reached a stage in our nation’s evolution where these ideas need promulgating. I will be voting a straight Democrat ticket and urge you to consider doing the same.

Sincerely,

Cynthia Love,
Old Lyme.

To the Editor:

The Old Lyme November 7^th ballot includes voting for two incumbent members of the Planning Commission.  Barbara Gaudio (U) has lived in Old Lyme for three decades and brings to the Commission business experience, including experience with commercial real estate.  Donald Willis (R) is a 4^th generation resident of Old Lyme and has extensive construction experience, including being a senior bridge inspector prior to his retirement from the CT DOT.  Combined, they have approximately fifteen years of experience as members of the Planning Commission. 

Although their backgrounds are diverse, they share a common goal, the support of business development in OL while preserving the character of the town.  They were both very involved in the recent revision of the Old Lyme Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD).  When reviewing applications received by the Planning Commission, they focus on how the applicant has satisfied the existing regulations.  Their questions are thoughtful, thorough, and together, they bring a great deal of experience and knowledge to the review process.  

I believe that Barbara and Don are a great asset to the Planning Commission.  I ask Old Lyme voters to acknowledge their service and the benefit they bring to Old Lyme and vote for them on November 7th.  Thank you.    

Sincerely, 

Harold Thompson,
Old Lyme.

Editor’s Note: The author is the Chairman of the Old Lyme Planning Commission.

To the Editor:

It is without hesitation that I write to endorse Martha Shoemaker’s candidacy for First Selectwoman of Old Lyme. Martha has served the people of Old Lyme the past 2 years as a Selectwoman and from observation, has dedicated herself to maintaining the community and character of Old Lyme while always looking forward.

Martha is my wife’s oldest and dearest friend and for the past 40 years she has also been my friend. I have watched Martha’s dedication to her career as an educator but more importantly, her devotion to friends and family. I have been fortunate to know Martha and her husband and to watch how they cared for aging parents, raised their children and managed careers and friendships. 

During a visit to Martha’s home this summer, she took my wife and me on an extensive tour of Old Lyme. Martha’s pride and love for the community was obvious. Martha showed us the beautiful beaches, the historic areas and buildings and told us of her desire to make advancements such as reestablishing a flooding and erosion control board and addressing planning and zoning matters that will improve and protect Old Lyme.

I spent most of my professional career in municipal government, serving as a municipal engineer, director of public works and borough administrator and understand what it takes to run a small town. I am extremely impressed by Martha and see she has the skills required to serve the needs of Old Lyme. I recognize that Martha is a quick study, passionate, dedicated and determined to address the smallest issues raised by individual residents to townwide issues that affect all.

Again, I strongly endorse Martha Shoemaker’s candidacy for First Selectwoman of Old Lyme and ask that you give her your vote on November 7.

Sincerely,

Frank Zichelli, P.E., 
Manchester Center, VT.

Editor’s Note: Martha Shoemaker is the Old Lyme Democratic-endorsed candidate for Old Lyme Board of Selectmen.