I must say I found the March 17 My View piece “Time to Let It Go” somewhat surprising. [Click here to read that piece.] To think that in this day and age the writer would try to attribute my letter to my husband is offensive. Is that sexist or what! But I guess women have been dealing with this for centuries.

I’m not sure about you, but in my own family, there are many different voices and opinions, and I can assure you that mine are not necessarily those of what the writer seems to perceive as the management. Anyone who knows my husband understands that he is a pragmatic numbers guy who keeps the focus on what’s best for the taxpayers in the town, and avoids nonproductive exchanges.

I, on the other hand, have come to think that allowing inaccurate accusations and innuendo to go unanswered allows misconceptions to fester and grow. To paraphrase one of our presidents­—if you repeat something often enough, people will believe it.

My main feeling was that if you publicly trash people in the town, which reflects poorly on the town, then also make a public retraction and amends. Since in this piece, the writer states that he “mended relationships that were frayed,” I will accept that as a public apology.

Also, what is this “lack of transparency” all about? The latest buzzword? Just go to the meetings. Check the website. There are no secrets.

However, I do have to seriously doubt this piece was actually written by John. After all, “John” is a person who is not rude or harassing, so would never condone “booing” to avoid listening to a different point of view. I’m sure “John” would agree that every viewpoint deserves to be heard in a courteous and considerate manner.

And as an astute business person, I wonder if the writer might have saved a boatload of attorney’s fees had he accepted help that was offered to correct a situation instead of choosing to get into an unnecessary fight.

And because “John” is a believer in community unity, I’m sure he would never set up a false dichotomy by characterizing himself as “too uppity for a newcomer taking too strong a role as community leader” vs. the “insular nature” of the board—because that is divisive and promoting an “us vs. them” situation which is also unnecessary and untrue. Everyone wants to see our community thrive.

I get it that “John” was disappointed about not being appointed, however I’m sure “John,” like the board, wants to encourage new people to get involved and work as a team for the benefit of our community. There are so many amazing, highly qualified people moving to this area, in addition to the people who have lived and served here for some time! The more committed interested, active citizens the better!

I also agree that there are many ways to contribute that don’t require a title. I, for one, welcome the writer’s positive contributions and want to encourage more people to get involved as well.

So yes, let’s move forward, let go of divisiveness, and stick with the issues. Actions speak louder than words. How about researching the feasibility of a dedicated bike lane with the state and the National Park Service? There are plenty of projects worthy of time and passion that could have the potential to extend the season and benefit all our businesses.

Carol Reynolds is a resident of Highland Lake, NY. She is married to James Gutegunst, Town of Highland Deputy Supervisor.

Click here to read John Pizzolato's letter"Time to let it go," in response to Carol Reynold's earlier letter, "Solve the problem; don't resort to insults" (click here to read that letter.)

Click here to read the Laurie Stuart editorial "Perceptions matter," talking about the political situation in Highland.