Dear Editor:

The elephant in the room, with respect to the likelihood of demolishing the Kenniston Hill Inn, may be a violation of community consensus that we all are responsible for preserving the character of this unique place. Preserving character isn't something that can be regulated. It's an attitude. It's a realization that every chance we have to enhance the aura of our community is an opportunity to increase value, aesthetic and economic, to a region largely dependent on its attractiveness.

Surely the talent and resources of the folks "restoring" the region's golf course could find a solution to keep the inn as an asset for the whole community. Historically, the Boothbay peninsula abounds with examples of houses, and even churches, that needed to be relocated for one reason or another. Notorious stories of significant buildings being razed, such as Portland's Union Station, have reminded us all to cherish the icons that symbolize what we were and what we are, still.

Saving or relocating the inn could be an opportunity for many actors to get involved in finding the right solution. A great development in Boothbay Center could become even better, especially as positive publicity surely would accrue to those responsible. The problem of the Kenniston Inn can be an exciting opportunity.

Rupert Neily
Boothbay