Dear Editor:

It was with great interest that I read in today's Boothbay Register online edition of the Walkability Study and new "branding" of the region effort. I couldn't agree more with the purpose of the study as I perceive it: to put a consistent and impressive face on the region for the purpose of attracting more visitors and in general, just improving the quality of life of the region.

However, to agree with the effort is not the purpose of this note. I have been a summer resident of the area for over 50 years, marrying into a family that go back three generations in the harbor. About 15 to 20 years ago, a noticeable change in the appearance of many of the properties and businesses seemed to be quite obvious to me. And it has continued, in my opinion, up to this day.

I give much credit for that change to the appearance of a type of new signage in town that is just plain impressive. I don't know the name of the sign maker nor its owner. But examples of the work can be found at Grover's Hardware, the Boothbay Fire Station on Route 27, The Carousel and Whale's Tale, the Boothbay Lobster Wharf, and the Register, just to name a few.

My suggestion: When it comes time to contract for the manufacture of the new "branding" signage, especially directional signage, whatever the cost, don't skimp. Use that manufacturer. And if those signs are produced locally, all the better. 

Dennis C. Brown
Villa Rica, Ga., and Boothbay