The editorial of July 2 had some inaccuracies. There were no mixed messages, from my point of view.

First, I did not sign a petition for the town of Strong declaring our town’s airspace off limits to low-flying aircraft. I did sign the petition as an individual, stating I didn’t want this allowed.

In retrospect, I should have waited until the meeting adjourned to sign this petition, not in the middle of the meeting. For this oversight, I apologize to any and all I may have offended.

Second, this petition was brought up at a previous meeting and the author was told the selectpersons could not sign on behalf of the town, only as individuals. There was no reporter at this first meeting, and I did not clarify this continuation of the conversation at the previous meeting.

Again I apologize.

Third, I feel because I signed the petition as an individual and not for the town, it’s unfair to say I contradicted myself and sent a mixed message to my constituents. The newspaper has no right to suggest I only support the troops after they make the ultimate sacrifice.

I always have, and always will, support the troops. Each of us has the right to our opinions, and I will not apologize for signing the petition.

I reiterate, I didn’t sign the petition on behalf of the town. I apologize for my ignorance in signing a petition as an individual at a town meeting.

Rebecca Croteau, Strong

Chairman, Board of Selectpersons

Copy the Story Link