Dear Editor:

I have finally become a permanent resident after moving from a town 45 miles inland. I recently registered to vote in the town of Southport and I participated in the annual town meeting. I was pleasantly surprised with the standing room only attendance. The dedication of a plaque for the 150 year anniversary of the town hall and the recognition of Ron Orchard for his dedication for the town’s historical background and museum was well-deserved. I was also impressed when Selectman Smith Climo started a verse of “God Bless America” and everyone in the hall chimed in. Selectman Gerry Gamage did a great job of explaining where our tax money is spent. There were good and thoughtful discussions on the warrants presented to us, always with respect for others’ opinions.

This reminded me of the way the town that I spent my entire life in used to be when it was the size of Southport back in the 1950s. I am also impressed with the professionalism and fairness of all town employees. This is town government at its finest. I am proud to be a Mainer and a Southport resident. (Maine - The Way Life Should Be.)

Brian Sylvester

Southport