Dear Editor: 

I was saddened to read Peter C. Gardner of East Boothbay’s letter concerning his distress over the condition of the bottle bin at the Masonic lodge on Ocean Point Road. I wish to apologize to Mr. Gardner for making him feel like he had to inform us in such a public way.  

Mr. Gardner may not be aware that organizations such as ours often use third parties to handle bottle donations and while this is usually done on a timely schedule, volume and staffing sometimes cause delays. 

I wish to thank the many people, residents and visitors alike, who utilize our bin. The income generated is not insignificant and goes far in fulfilling the Lodge’s commitment to that most important of Masonic tenets, Charity. That charity contributes to an overall Masonic charity more thanone billion dollars annually. 

The confusion Mr. Gardner had in identifying the offending lodge surely must be the result of the sign we have at the entrance not being clear enough. 

Should Mr. Gardner find offense with something concerning either lodge again, he needn’t take the time to perhaps ask a neighbor how best to contact us or inquire at the Post Office or town office, or even take the time to write another letter. In a case such as that I can be reached at lincsample1@gmail.com and I can assure Mr.Gardner, I will give the matter all the attention it deserves. 

Frank L. Sample III 

Boothbay Harbor