Letters to the Editor
Praise for DeStefano design
Dear Independent,In last week's article on the "dedication" ceremonies on the Atlantic House, various local dignitaries lauded the Planning Board, HDC, Old York Historical, etc., for their expertise and help in the review process. But knowing how reticent Don Rivers is in the publicity arena, perhaps greater consideration should be given to the design work of John DeSefano, the lead architect.
It is quite obvious that John spent a lot of time in research on the original exterior design of both the Atlantic House and the Kearsarge (Shelton's) before committing them to paper. His presentations to the HDC were impressive both in historical research and historically accurate replication with respect to newly created aspects of both projects. Too often in this town, architecture - especially of McMansions - results in a mish-mashed hodgepodge of clashing styles.
Now, if only this paper would make available to the public several colored renditions of both projects, the public can fully appreciate what is being replicated.
Ronald Nowell
York
Thanks from Peter Bowman
Dear Independent,Many of the most important things in life are best accomplished by teamwork, and so it was in my case during the recently concluded off-year election. I am deeply honored that you, the voters of District 1 (Ogunquit, South Berwick, York, Eliot and Kittery), chose me to represent you in the Maine Senate for the next two years. I am also extremely appreciative of the outstanding team of volunteers who tirelessly worked on my behalf. Finally, I owe great thanks to those who hosted events in their homes that helped me spread my message, and to that small group of mentors that helped me learn the "art" of campaigning. I will work long and hard to justify the confidence that you have placed in me.
Peter Bowman
Kittery
Blue Christmas at St. George
Dear Independent,Are you having a Blue Christmas season? All the joy of decking the halls with boughs of holly can be a stark contrast with the interior realities of those of us who have experienced loss in the last year. The pain of broken relationships, lost employment, ill health, loneliness, the gut-wrenching loss of a child, the emptiness of no longer having a beloved spouse to share each day, the death of a dear family pet - all these can contribute to a feeling of being alone, of feeling "blue" in the midst of the society around us, which seems bent on being happy and celebrating. There are years when we hurt at Christmastime and can't get into the festivities others seem able to enjoy.
It's at such times that we need to make the space and take the time to acknowledge our sadness and concern. We need to know that we are not alone. For these reasons, St. George's Episcopal Church in York Harbor (at 407 York Street, across from the York Art Association) invites you to a Blue Christmas service at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21, to come and join in sharing and hearing prayers, Scripture and music that acknowledge that God's presence is for those who mourn, for those who struggle - and that God's Word is meant to shine light into our darkness.
Please accept this invitation to be with us - a time to move from feeling blue to experiencing the wonder and hope of Christmas. No need to RSVP - our doors will be open to all who come, so please feel free to invite others to come with you, as your support, or if you know that they too, are finding that Christmas hurts. For more information, call 363-7376.
In Christ,
The Rev. Paige Blair
York Harbor
Support "Toys for Tots"
Dear Independent,The York Rotary Club, American Legion Post #56 and Boy Scouts Troop 301 are working together in the Toys for Tots program this Christmas season.
We are seeking donations of new toys or gift cards for young boys and girls up to age 16. Collection boxes will be placed at various businesses throughout the York area. Please help us make this Christmas a happy one for a young boy or girl by placing a new toy or gift card into one of our collection boxes. The toys will be collected, wrapped and distributed to boys and girls who could use some Christmas cheer this year.
You can also bring your donated toy to the Festival of Lights Parade on Saturday, Dec. 2. Watch for the Toys for Tots float in this year's parade; members from the Boy Scouts and York Rotary Club will be collecting donated toys to fill up our Toys for Tots gift box that will be on our holiday float.
Thank you and Happy Holidays!!
York Rotary Club
York
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Send your letters to the Editor at PO Box 6, York, ME 03909 or via email to editor@yorkindependent.net. Deadline for publication is 12:00 noon on the Monday prior to that week's publication
