Efficient, Informative East Hampton May 4, 2015 To the Editor: I’d like to express my great appreciation to the vast number of fire personnel and emergency technicians from East Hampton and from Amagansett who responded to my 911 call on Saturday, morning, May 2, when I discovered a fire in my house on Accabonac Road. They were fast, efficient, informative, and encouraging about what I had luckily escaped. The fire marshal and assistants stayed on the job until they meticulously were able to identify probable cause. Watching their forensic activity was an education, but seeing the collegial way all of the responders went about their job, doing as little damage as possible (and apologizing for what they had to do!), was an even larger education in community cooperation and spirit. PAUL MOSS Their Contributions East Hampton May 1, 2015 To the Editor: I am one of many East Hampton residents who will miss Seth Redlus, executive director of LTV, and Sara Davison, executive director of ARF, both of whom have announced they are leaving their organizations. Their contributions to the town have largely gone unheralded, as they have used their energy to promote their organizations and not themselves. As producer of “Sullivan’s Travels,” a show on LTV, I have had a wonderful and productive relationship with these outstanding individuals. Seth has been a sympathetic and encouraging boss and coach at LTV who took an active interest in my show and served as my mentor. Whatever positive quality and success my show has achieved is due to his guidance. I began at LTV by producing a Republican TV show to boost the candidacy of Bill Wilkinson. The only available studio time was after 5 p.m., when the studio was normally closed. But Seth, an active East Hampton Democrat, would stay after closing to work the controls for my Republican show, and he deserves a pat on the back and credit for doing it. When the election was over, Seth recruited me to have my own show on LTV. Thank you, Seth. It has been a wonderful experience, and I owe it to you. Sara Davison made me feel welcome at ARF. I have filmed several ARF adoption events as well as many public service announcements about upcoming ARF events. Due to Sara’s efforts, I was able to film the fine work of ARF’s veterinarian, Sara Alward, and have the benefit of the always able services of Jaime Berger, director of public information. Sara runs a very busy organization that offers dogs and cats for adoption; neutering for prospective pets, dog training, and adoption outreach vans, which visit many towns on Long Island as well as New York City. There is no better example of Sara’s ability than the quality of the staff and volunteers she recruited at ARF, including the volunteer dog walkers. I don’t know Sara as well as I do Seth, but filming at ARF has been a pleasure, and it is due to the spirit and dedication of the staff and volunteers she has recruited. So, I thank Sara, and will miss her. Sincerely, TIM SULLIVAN The Grim Facts East Hampton May 4, 2015 To the Editor, This year marks 70 years since the end of World War II. It is considered by many as the greatest conflict in human history. A lot of people today don’t know about it, some remember, and others don’t want to remember. The grim facts are that from 1939 to 1945 nearly 65 million people lost their lives. Recently some historians claim that the count is closer to 70 million. Either way, these are mind-staggering statistics. Approximately one-third of these casualties were Russian. America suffered its share, too. On a positive side, the war pulled us out of the Depression and united us as a nation. Most of the country went back to work. Some say that history repeats itself. Besides reuniting and promoting work, I hope the rest of this history stays where it is. In memory of James S. Cuomo, Tech Sergeant, U.S. Army. DOREEN LESNIK The Needs of Others East Hampton April 27, 2015 Dear Mr. Rattray, On behalf of our clients, all of us at East Hampton Meals on Wheels do heartily thank Boy Scout Troop 298, all the scout leaders, and American Legion Post 419, who made possible the delicious spaghetti dinner on Sunday, April 27, 2015. Our volunteers delivered almost 80 dinners to our homebound clients, including family and caregivers. These meals were a very special treat, because our clients cannot shop, cook, or prepare their own meals. We are extremely grateful that the scouts, while busy preparing to serve dinner guests at the American Legion, still had time to prepare takeout meals of the same quality for those unable to attend. It is heartwarming and comforting to know that so many individuals, especially young people, in the Town of East Hampton care so deeply about the needs of others. We also thank the folks who purchased the tickets that were donated to our organization so that our homebound friends might be included in this wonderful affair. Finally, we thank our dedicated volunteers who helped deliver the spaghetti dinners on Sunday afternoon. Thank you again, Boy Scouts, for making this a success for everyone. Good luck in all your endeavors! EDWARD D. McLAUGHLIN Exceeded Expectations Sag Harbor April 27, 2015 Dear Editor, For over a year, we have been driving by the Harbor Market and Kitchen in Sag Harbor as it was under construction, and we have been full of curiosity and impatient for its opening. Well, after all the hoopla about the new Harbor Market and Kitchen, we heard that today was the opening day. My wife and I got up early, because we wanted to be their first customers, and we were. Yeah! We had high expectations. Today was a soft opening and limited food was available. With our high expectations, I am pleased to say they were exceeded. The owner even took our picture. Later we stopped by again to see if they were offering lunch. Lunch was complimentary slices of delicious mouth-watering pizza. Every aspect of the Harbor Market and Kitchen displays quality. The ambiance is very nice, the freshly baked aromatic food we had for breakfast was excellent, and the staff could not have been nicer. We are going back tomorrow. From all appearances it looks like it will be a smashing success. We believe the Harbor Market and Kitchen is an invaluable addition to our community. We want to wish the owners and their professional employees well, and can’t wait for the full service opening in the near future. TOM and JANE METZ Monitoring Hook Pond East Hampton April 28, 2015 To the Editor: On Jan. 10, 2013, members of East Hampton High School’s Environmental Awareness Club, along with Mr. Minardi and Mr. Peterson, met with Mr. Larry Cantwell, then the administrator of East Hampton Village, to discuss the present conditions of Hook Pond. Mr. Cantwell expressed his concerns and stated the village board was aware of the existing conditions, including water quality and damage from various entry locations. Accordingly, the village board is considering a monitoring system for the pond, which should be in place in the very near future. At present, water quality in the pond is being tested by two members of the Awareness Club, Tess Talmage and Chris Rivera, who are both seniors at the high school, under the direction of Mr. Minardi, who is a marine biology professor. The study group is collecting samples from six selected entry points on a monthly basis. Samples are tested at Mr. Minardi’s lab for total nitrogen, phosphates, pH, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. To date, analysis of the data shows low oxygen concentrations and above-normal nitrate concentrations. The pond is very close to an anaerobic phase. Nitrates, phosphates, and other compounds generally enter the pond in the following ways: • Possible septic discharge from nearby septic systems • Road drainage and runoff • Lawn fertilizer runoff • Fecal contamination by waterfowl, caused by excessive feeding of these birds by the public. In addition to the above, Hook Pond is experiencing ecological succession. The borders of the pond are migrating toward the center of the pond; it is shrinking. Leading the way is the common reed phragmites. This is the pioneer species in the succession process. The reed, as it migrates, will be followed by grasses, then shrubs, and cedar or pine will mix in. The climax of the succession will occur with species of oak, cedar, and pine. As the depth of the water decreases with ongoing runoff from nitrates, the succession process will accelerate. Please understand that ecological succession is a natural, long-term event. A good nearby example of succession is Two Holes of Water. In conclusion, after four months of testing and study, we conclude that Hook Pond is a borderline body of water. The testing equipment and facility used for testing by our group is not New York State certified. If either the village board or the Hook Pond Association decides to continue monitoring the pond, we recommend using a certified water-testing firm. We are quite confident that the data a certified testing firm would collect will be very close to ours, but those data would be certified and could be used as a legally documented assessment. If the village board and Hook Pond Association decide to move forward, Mr. Minardi can be of assistance. Thank you, ANTHONY S. MINARDI Hows and Whys Springs April 30, 2015 Dear Editor: Last week’s letters to the paper had the usual grouping. Some overly long-winded, some I agreed with, and some I did not. I would like to note two letters by people I know fairly well. Stuart Vorpahl in his letter tells us that he is suffering from MDS (myleodysplasic syndrome), a truly deadly hematological condition. I had seen him at our local oncological office and knew he was very ill. I’m not sure that he is aware that he has inserted himself into an increasing discussion of the emotional, relational, philosophical, and medical aspects of mortality brought about by a best-selling book, but more so by the realization that we are an increasingly graying town and nation, and we all must face the problems of our mortality. It is predicted that in 2050 this nation will have over 20 million people of 85 plus. Since he has had 14 transfusions and 8 administrations of packed platelets, Stuart is well aware, and states the need for blood donations. It is a substantial gift that both rich and poor can give to the health of our nation. Paul Fiondella’s letter was a cogent listing of the hows and whys our community must have a town manager. In this I heartily agree with him. There have been a number of times in past years where town managers from a varied number of other communities have come to speak about what they do and can do. In each case, the audience left convinced that a similar job description was needed in East Hampton. Such a position would give us continuity of purpose, impartiality, and ability not always seen through our election process. Big and lightning-fast are the forces in our society today, and we must have the best possible government to meet the stress of the demands they will impose. So, dear editor, why not be a seer and use your bully pulpit and help really bring this town into the second and third decade of the 21st century. HOWARD JOHN LEBWITH Well-Run Town Springs April 29, 2015 To the Editor: Mr. Paul Fiondella gave an excellent explanation of why we need a town manager. If you read his letter of April 30, it describes in detail what the manager does. It would not cost the town more money. We would have a well-run town government. JULIA KAYSER Streets Are Awful East Hampton May 2, 2015 To the Editor: I find it almost unfathomable that the streets throughout the community are in awful condition. And it looks like work is going to be starting soon on Route 27 near Amagansett. If roadwork goes on into the summer, it will make difficult travel worse. If there is no work done and the streets remain awful it will also be uncomfortable. This high-end wealthy community will not look good. We are living in interesting times. TOM FRIEDMAN The Right Thing to Do Amagansett May 1, 2015 Dear Editor, Ten reasons Wainscott residents and all East Hampton Town residents should support the proposed Stephen Hand’s Path affordable housing project in Wainscott: 1. The need for affordable housing in the Town of East Hampton for working families and single individuals has reached a desperate stage. 2. Some of the units will be designated for senior housing, and as the population is aging the need for more affordable housing for seniors is increasing rapidly. 3. Wainscott is rejecting the idea of allowing affordable housing in its community, but this is irresponsible. Although the majority of its homeowners are among the wealthiest and most powerful in East Hampton Town, it is very likely that some workers who are employed maintaining the estates in Wainscott and/or who work for Wainscott businesses reside in affordable housing units located in the other hamlets or village of East Hampton Town, while at the same time, other equally needy people languish on waiting lists for years. 4. The hamlet of Wainscott sends its students in grades 4 to 12 to the East Hampton School District, adding to the overcrowded classes there, but it doesn’t want to bear the cost or impact of expanding its kindergarten to third-grade classes (the only grades they offer) or increase its student population. Wainscott enjoys, by far, the lowest tax rate in East Hampton Town, but it would be much higher if it had to buy land, then build, maintain, and repair its own schools, and employ personnel to educate grade 4 to 12 students. 5. If you are on the left, and say you believe in paying your fair share, you should support the project. 6. If you are on the right, and say you are a pro-life compassionate conservative, then you should support affordable housing for low-income families with children. 7. The current housing crisis is a tragedy about to happen. It is common knowledge that many local working poor are living in unsafe, squalid conditions because this is where their jobs are but decent housing is not available. Families are living in basements, attics, and garages, often crammed into overcrowded rooms, often with faulty electric and inadequate sanitation. This past winter, a man was discovered to be paying rent to live in an unheated garage without sanitation. It may be that some of the people dwelling in unsafe and unhealthy conditions are employed by Wainscott businesses or working on Wainscott estates. It’s wrong to say “not in my backyard” to the folks who are actually working in your backyard. 8. If you want your property protected from fire, there may come a day when those defending your property need to call for additional help from the Montauk or other fire departments, but the personnel may not be there to respond. At this time, the word is out that four Montauk firefighters with families are having to leave their rented dwellings shortly, and can’t find housing for the summer. 9. You may need help from an E.M.T. one of these days, who comes from Amagansett, East Hampton, Montauk, or Springs, and there won’t be one available to save your life, since most of those called to these duties tend to be on the less affluent end of the income spectrum. Notice the posters trying to recruit such personnel around the various villages and hamlets right now. 10. It’s the right thing to do! JUDY MORTON P.S. Fifty years ago, on July Fourth weekend 1965, I visited Montauk and decided to stay. The following year, I married Capt. Bobby Morton (deceased 1995), who was an established and active member of the Montauk sportfishing fleet at the time. Over the years, I was employed locally in various capacities, including 10 seasons as a server for Gosman’s Dock restaurant, as bookkeeper for Leif Hope’s Laundry restaurant, as bookkeeper for Most Holy Trinity Parish, and as temporary clerk at the Montauk and Amagansett Post Offices, to name just a few. I am now 75 years old and continue to be on several waiting lists for local affordable housing since November 2013. Incorrect Assessments Springs May 1, 2015 Dear David, The recorded deeds reported in The Star of April 30 show why we need a townwide property tax reassessment. The largest reported sale was a 3.7-acre property at 64 Further Lane in East Hampton that sold for $30 million. It is assessed with a market value of a little more than $1 million. The 2013-14 total property taxes on this property were $4,916. If East Hampton had a fair system of tax assessment, the correct taxes would be around $145,000. As noted again in the recorded deeds, what appears to be the same buyer purchased the adjacent property at 60 Further Lane for $10 million. This 3.7-acre property has exactly the same tax assessment and pays the same amount of taxes as its neighbor. So this lucky buyer owns two lots totaling 7.4 acres worth $40 million, and will pay less than $10,000 a year in taxes. These two properties were part of a sale last year for $145 million that included a third property at 62 Further Lane. That property is assessed with a market value of $9.26 million. Taken all together, the three parcels have a combined assessed value of about $11.3 million, or less than 8 percent of the correct market assessment. They pay a total of about $55,000 a year in property taxes. With a correct assessment they would pay about $700,000 a year. Though these are the largest dollar amounts of incorrect assessments that I have studied, they are not unique. In the same recorded deeds is the sale of 121 Miankoma Lane in Amagansett for over $2.9 million. It is assessed as worth only $109,589, and its property tax bill for last year totaled $551. Two nearly identical neighboring properties pay only about $520 a year in taxes. Correcting the underassessment of these and similar high-value properties would add hundreds of millions of dollars to the existing tax rolls. However, because the total amount of tax collected from all properties does not change, these conditions lead to some surprising mathematical results. Taxes will actually go down for any property that is currently assessed correctly, even though its assessment will not change. More surprisingly, many properties that are moderately underassessed now will receive higher assessments, but their taxes will still go down, or stay about the same. Far more properties will receive a tax reduction than will receive an increase. In New York State, a sale of property cannot trigger a reassessment. Without a townwide tax reassessment, all of these properties will continue to underpay their fair share of taxes, and all of the more properly assessed properties pay more than their fair share. Some members of the town board have said that we cannot afford the $3 million to $4 million expense of a reassessment. But correcting the unfairness of our taxation will rebalance that cost, and all financial costs, to those who have paid the least fair share of taxes in prior years. This is an issue of gross inequity that the town board must resolve. ZACHARY COHEN Alas, Poor Springs Springs May 3, 2015 Dear David, Poor Springs! The orphan child of East Hampton! So much going on that will eventually degrade our lovely hamlet, starting with a 160-foot cell tower on the Fire Department property on Fort Pond Boulevard, down the street from a cell tower erected a few years ago at Camp Blue Bay, though not as high and certainly not as visible. Two cell towers so close? Is this really necessary? Must be a lot of cell calls made at the end of Springs. Well, anyway, now that the Fire Department is getting a regular hefty sum from Verizon, I assume we need not feel pressured to respond to their fund-raising drives as we used to, and perhaps the sum that we in Springs are charged on our tax bills might be decreased? The Springs School Board, which has been sitting on $2 million of taxpayer money that the citizens voted last year to be used for capital improvements, now wants to spend over $915,000 on a parking lot, an educational necessity no doubt. That’s almost a million dollars. And another $255,750 on improving the drop-off and pickup area. This from a school board that, though it is a Title 1 school, eligible for federal funds for free and reduced lunch for children, has never solved the problem of a creative way to feed its children. We all know that there are many families who struggle to provide adequate nutrition for their children. Look at the many food pantries in our area, how many families they serve. Children learn better when their stomachs are full. It’s not an educational axiom, it’s a fact of life. Why are they not spending this money on creating a suitable cafeteria so they could have a breakfast and lunch program? As a longtime elementary school teacher and administrator, I have witnessed that the need to feed children is primary. I urge you to vote against unnecessary structures. Poor Springs! The proposed truck law, though we still haven’t seen the final version, started out as seeking a definition of what constitutes a light truck, but now it has morphed into a version that suits a relatively small group of contractors, ignoring the needs of the larger group of residents who share their hamlet. Residents know that these people need to earn a living, and I for one only choose locals to service any of my needs. But when you have a business there are always expenses, and these are tax-deductible. So, parking the equipment needed for your business someplace other than your home, on your half or quarter-acre, should be the way to go. Who wants to live near a house where all that “stuff” is parked on the property? Few people, I daresay. And 12,500 gross vehicle weight is selfish and self-serving and never considered a light truck! Alas, poor Springs! I agree with your recent editorial that stated citizens advisory committees should have a chairperson, a vice chair, and a secretary leading the group and everyone who comes to the meeting sits in the audience and votes on all proposals. This is the more democratic way and will also serve to bring back to the C.A.C.s residents who have been turned off by the present structure. Hopeful Springs resident, PHYLLIS ITALIANO ‘Quieter’ Helicopters? Sag Harbor May 3, 2015 Dear Editor, One of the many commuter helicopter operators vying for the lucrative Hamptons commuter market has stated the company will this year be ferrying commuters to East Hampton, Montauk, and Southampton with “quieter” helicopters that will fly below the 91 decibel threshold considered noisy under proposed airport access restrictions. (An annual average noise day-night level of 65 dB or greater is a level the Federal Aviation Administration has established as incompatible with residential communities. In one study comparing the effect of aircraft noise to the effect of alcohol on cognitive performance, it was found that simulated aircraft noise at 65 dB had the same effect on individuals’ ability to recall auditory information as being intoxicated with a blood-alcohol concentration level of .10!) The helicopter company has not informed us of the decibel level of this new craft, but unless it is flying above 4,000 feet it will likely be audible, therefore remain disruptive to most of us. But the question is why, if this “quieter” technology is readily available, has the helicopter industry not used it before? Let me guess — it costs more money, and money is the holy grail of the aviation industry, period. Why does the F.A.A. not insist that every helicopter used only for private travel or tourism be of this “less” noisy type? Probably for the same reason that the F.A.A. allows pilots in jet aircraft like the Gulfstream G550 to take off on our runway, which is over 1,600 feet shorter than recommended takeoff distance by the aircraft’s manufacturer! Perhaps that is why the aviation community is petitioning to have cut many of the beautiful trees at the edge of the runway — they just want more runway so larger jets can land and take off. Oh, and they also want the smaller runway repaved for their own use — it is getting crowded on the tarmac and the smaller craft will be vying for space, if they are not already. Airport traffic is growing rapidly, with double-digit percentage increases last year and likely as much or more this year, given that at least one new commuter operator is entering the lucrative Hamptons commuter route. Unfortunately for residents nationwide, whatever whim the aviation industry expresses a need for, the F.A.A. apparently is ready to support. Tell the town board at tonight’s meeting at 6:30 at Town Hall that a large-scale regional airport is not the future you want for the airport or the East End. It will enrich the commuter operators but ruin our tranquil resort area, and that will negatively impact our economy. PATRICIA CURRIE Coast Guard Helicopter? East Hampton May 3, 2015 Dear David, At 6:20 on Saturday evening of this past weekend, my husband and I literally rushed out of our home because the sound of an approaching helicopter was unusually loud and therefore particularly threatening to us and our home. Although our windows and doors were closed, the windows rattled and our house shook. Once outside we became horrified by the deafening sound of a helicopter and its perilously low altitude. We were in shock and felt it was on a collision course. We were forced to yell to each other as we watched the helicopter fly directly over our home, barely above the oak and pine treetops. The helicopter was white with red trim and had the letters CG and a set of numbers on the bottom of the body of the aircraft. We believe the letters may stand for Coast Guard. Nevertheless, there is no excuse for any pilot to fly a helicopter or any aircraft at the dangerous altitude this pilot did that evening. If it was a Coast Guard helicopter, our home is inland, making this assault all the more untenable. As instructed to do when an aircraft is offensive, we called the hotline and recorded the details, left a message for Jermille, the airport manager, and submitted a complaint form that would be received by the members of the East Hampton Town Board. However, because this helicopter was uniquely low and loud, I felt it imperative to write to you as well. In addition, this Monday morning, I notified the Coast Guard Command Control Station in New Haven and spoke to Lt. J.G. Vegter of the Long Island Sector. They too have no record of the helicopter but based on my description, they confirmed it was undoubtedly a Coast Guard aircraft, which makes this particular helicopter in question unusual. We await the lieutenant’s discovery, if any, of the low-flying helicopter. We find it odd the pilot and helicopter are not accounted for. I believe this particular pilot operated his/her helicopter in violation of F.A.A. standards and regulations. Therefore, I also believe this incident should be immediately reported to the agency for review as well as license examination for additional penalization. We are once again experiencing helicopters as the season approaches, as well as seaplanes and other noisy aircraft. As you know, none are more disruptive than the helicopters, and we expect with the newly added helicopter taxi services being offered, including the expanded schedule of helicopter travel to the Hamptons by Gotham, the company that is advertising a “quieter” aircraft. Realistically and technically Gotham won’t be able to deliver this promise to the East End communities based on closer study of the actual numbers and mechanical operation of the aircraft, but I leave that to those who are more knowledgeable. Despite the well-intended legislation passed to help relieve the residents of the East End, for all of which we are very grateful, we believe we may see and hear more helicopters than anticipated if Gotham is able to fly without restraint of any kind because they meet the standard set by the town, as its C.E.O. says. At best, Gotham is advertising a gimmick to get patrons and profit. In fact, the company is seeking to be in operation 24 hours a day! Our family stands united with the town board members as the aviation groups and outside-state opponents to the reasonable proposals passed are subject to pending lawsuits. It is deeply troubling to know that big government and outside interests insist on bullying our town and all the East End communities for their profit while we must forfeit our homes and environment. All the more reason we need to stand united and continue to do what is best for all the communities, not just our own. Preserving the East End of Long Island is paramount. Many thanks to our town board members for their steadfast concern and commitment to minimizing the noise pollution of our hometown and our neighboring communities. P.S. We received an early Sunday morning call from Peter Boody at East Hampton Airport. Here is the result of our conversation as reported to Quiet Skies Coalition: 1. There was no recording at E.H. Airport of such a helicopter. 2. The equipment they have to record takeoffs and landings is not operable at this time but is expected to be “turned on” for the summer season. 3. Based on our description of the helicopter (red and white with CG on bottom and numbers), he said only one person has such a helicopter: Ira Rennert. (I am advised that Mr. Boody is aware of Mr. Rennert’s helicopter and knows that it is blue and white.) 4. Mr. Boody did not believe it was a Coast Guard helicopter, despite our description. We looked up CG helicopters on the Internet and we believe it was a Coast Guard aircraft. 5. Mr. Boody said there is a camera at the airport that is capable of taking photos of aircraft on arrival at night. Is there currently? This helicopter was very visible to us at 6:20 last night as it was still sunny. He also suggested that perhaps we incorrectly judged the altitude and large aircraft look closer to the ground. I explained to him that I was taught to fly and recognize an aircraft that is below normal altitudes, dispelling his remark that implied we may be overreaching with our complaint. Barely flying above tree level is not acceptable for any aircraft! 6. Mr. Boody said the F.A.A. does not have jurisdiction over helicopter altitudes, which we are aware of. All the more reason to ban them from our skies, if they are permitted to fly at such perilously low altitudes over our homes. 7. He advised me to check back with him at a later date to see if he’s come up with anything. He specifically said he was not trying to say there wasn’t a helicopter over our home, but because there is no record of it, there is no real substantive proof. (Ha!) 8. Question: If the airport does not have a record of such a helicopter, why is there an air tower to help direct traffic? Why don’t the tower operators record or have knowledge of this helicopter? What responsibility, if any, does the air tower have in air traffic over our communities? It would seem, based on this one event thus far, that it has negligible control or responsibility. A considerable amount of town funds pay for this tower and it should be accountable for all traffic. 9. We were unable to see the sides or top of the aircraft, it was that low on approach and over our heads. It came directly from the Wainscott Northwest Road area. Normally, we send our complaints in via the website. This time it required that I alert all parties because the helicopter was that low, loud, and, we believed, in danger of crashing. Needless to say, we are considerably dismayed by the response from Mr. Boody, although he was perfectly pleasant. Sincerely, SUSAN McGRAW KEBER Push Back, Push Hard Wainscott May 1, 2015 Dear Editor; Finally we have a town board that is trying to mitigate the daily disruption of peace and quiet, concerned to serve us. Up pops the out-of-state helicopter companies and the money behind them, to file lawsuits against the town. Well, we are the town, and it is against every resident who lives here and has a right to some quality of life and tranquillity to enjoy our homes and community. Decades have passed, and all that was asked was that the aircraft operators be good neighbors and respect us, which they refuse to do. They condone and justify these daily disruptions by filing suit after suit, costing us untold litigation fees. A blunt intimidation tactic, which is plain bullying against all of us. It is time to push back and push hard, because there is nothing written in stone that mandates that the town must have an airport. This is a courtesy extended by the town, or shall I say by us? Once upon a time it was a small facility for local recreational pilots, who only occasionally forgot their manners. Then, poof! in the middle of the night, and we all know who was responsible, suddenly created a thundering jetport. Then the helicopters and float planes followed. The litigants cry fire in a crowded theater — blatant lies — that restrictions are a pathway to closing the facility. Yet they are the only people who shriek this fallacy. Keep shouting your silly lies and maybe we, as the owners, may just use our power to do just that. These seeds you planted may blossom. You do not have any rights to harass us by bombarding us with daily mayhem. ARTHUR J. FRENCH Change Challenge East Hampton April 28, 2015 Dear David, I want to thank the 90-plus attendees at the Tom Twomey Series “Conversations With” last Saturday at the East Hampton Library. The first of the 12 events was a panel discussion on “Meeting Climate Change Challenges: A Coastal Community Perspective‚” by a panel of climate change specialists. As moderator, I want to particularly thank Town Supervisor Larry Cantwell for his remarks on the town’s commitment in addressing the urgency of response to rising sea levels and eroding coastlines. As one of the panelists, Kim Shaw, the town’s environmental protection director, reviewed town initiatives and grants support. A research analyst from Columbia University’s Center for Climate Systems Research examined climatology on Long Island, with a focus on the rising sea levels and ocean temperatures. There was a New York City case study on living shorelines. Gordian Raacke, executive director of Renewable Energy Long Island, presented alternative options for clean energy resources. An extended question-and-answer period provided a valuable dialogue between the attendees and the panelists. LTV recorded the event but a date has not been set for broadcast. My goal is to continue this conversation in our community as we collectively strive to find the most effective way to serve our irreplaceable environment. Every member of our community has a stewardship role in meeting the impacts of climate change. Through awareness of increasing options to employ, we can better prepare for a sustainable future and an investment in tomorrow’s world. The time is now. LINDA JAMES Driven by the Sun East Hampton April 28, 2015 Dear David, Once again a writer thinks that carbon dioxide, which is .03 percent of the atmosphere, somehow drives climate. The writer also believes that humanity’s industrial CO2 portion is the reason Earth is warmer than it once was. Since about 90 percent of atmospheric CO2 comes from natural sources like wetlands, volcanoes, termites, etc., can anyone explain how an amount of about 0.003 percent can drive climate change? Pretty obviously, it cannot. The climate is in fact driven by the sun and its varying energy cycles. Added to that is the fact that Earth’s orbit is not totally circular, but is influenced by Jupiter and Saturn, sometimes pulling Earth slightly closer, sometimes farther away from the sun. These things influence climate far more than any amount of CO2 can. Earth’s levels compared over geological time are quite low. The doom and gloom predictions are all computer-program generated. There are about 90-some such programs and not one has ever made a correct prediction, even when the latest weather trends have been added in. The fact is, there has been a decline in Earth’s temperature since 1997, but the programs still say Earth’s temperature is increasing. So why should we believe them? The amount of CO2 in the atmosphere has been 20 times higher than today without any catastrophic changes or die-offs on Earth related to the CO2 levels. In the last 150 years growing plants have been grown with CO2 limits four to five times higher than today’s levels. They grow faster and produce more crop yield, which can be as high as 30 to 100 percent higher depending on the plant. That is because plants require CO2 to grow. With more CO2 they grow faster and better. Ask any commercial greenhouse grower. Without CO2, green plants will die. If the green plants die, then we will die. Sure does not sound like “pollution” to me. Does it to you? Go to Dr. Don Easterbrook’s home page and read this climatologist’s papers and associates’ papers posted there. Get away from the fraud perpetrated by Dr. Michael Mann and the East Anglia people. Yours, PETER C. OSBORNE Lights Out Law Springs May 4, 2015 Dear David, Good news (especially for your city readers): The New York City Council held a hearing to enact a lights-out law for commercial buildings when they are unoccupied, similar to a law enacted in Paris. It’s almost impossible to calculate the huge savings, not only financial, but also the reduction in air and water pollution from fossil fuel-generated energy. Since winds from coal plants west of us travel eastward, we can expect a reduction in air and water pollution here on the East End. The state followed up on its own “fully shielded” requirement for new lighting, enacted last year, with a lights-out law during migration season. Since birds fly at low altitudes, this will save many millions of songbirds. My hope is that East Hampton Village will enact similar amendments to its lighting code. One aspect of the proposed amendment that is under consideration is to regulate night lighting that is on during daylight hours, called “day burners.” You can see an example of this situation at Waldbaum’s. They refuse to shut off their night lighting during the day, resulting in higher product prices and the release, unnecessarily, of over 18,000 pounds of CO2; as well as mercury, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. It was very exciting to be in City Hall with so many who were advocating for the Lights Out bill. The French Minister called in to the hearing to proclaim the success of their initiative. SUSAN HARDER Dark Sky Association The Bottom Line Sag Harbor May 4, 2015 Dear David, I’ve been involved in peace and justice issues most of my life — a member of the largest peace organization in the world, known as Pax Christi, part of the Catholic Church but not under the institution for obvious reasons; a retired police lieutenant in the New York City Police Department, served on active duty in the Korean War (called a police action, not a declared war). Rarely have we declared war in violation of the U.S. Constitution. What I believe is most important today, more than ever before, a quote from Pope John Paul II: “No more wars in the name of God. Never again war, which destroys the lives of innocent people, teaches how to kill, throws into upheaval even the lives of those who do the killing, and leaves behind a trail of resentment and hatred, thus making it all the more difficult to find a just solution of the very problems which provoke the war.” And let us remember, Pope John Paul was held captive for many years under the rule of harsh Communism. Much later in the pope’s life he expressed a desire that capitalism be next to go. Have you been a victim as yet? Most people now know our government is privatized and dysfunctioned by corporate powers. We the people are left out of the equation. Nevertheless, we represent over 300 million people. Try to hear the prophetic voice of the psychologist Carl Jung: If we project our evil on others, we are headed for mass destruction. Only the truth can set us free while drowning in a sea of lies, corruption, bribery, and the money-bundlers: huge sums of cash to support our wars. Money is the bottom line; on this we can agree. In peace, LARRY DARCEY He Got More Funny Southold April 4, 2015 Dear Editor, Being a poet since the start of school, I also enjoyed other, greater poets. I liked to listen to the late Nipsy Russell, the comedian with the big smile. I listened to one of his tapes. Early Nipsy sounded more serious, no smile. I could get ahold of the whole Russell family, and begged him to switch from serious story to happy poems, and smile! I was only 12 or 13 years old and was so surprised. He changed his style and got to be more funny! I got my brains from somewhere early and lost them a lot of times, and fight for them now! ANITA FAGAN The Child the child smile easily hug prolific outlook lucky as a puppy loves her dinner cruel winter fled on a sled down a river to whisper the clear water spring in inspired prayer Spring in Springs a ring bells bring a fantasy take wing lovely lilt the world tilt your love is everything spicy erudite airy fling with eyes that christen ships blissful blustery wind part newly growth grassy whiskers sweep below moonlight glow expedite metallic beams navigate wayfarer over Black Seas mask last brass sun bask through trees seagulls greet the draft fore and aft in the sky crossing high a meteor cling to waves tiny ship swallow up the salty sea in His hand a cup of tea in tune he is a Bonacker draw the chart reclaim the helm remark a most important word that hasn’t seen the day or night the sea hysterical gal in the galley heart in Gaulway looking for a port to export doesn’t it matter that we’re standing still in the quiet siren her beauty bathing boldly savor elegant relevant daydream. JUNE KAPLAN Mother and Child East Hampton May 2, 2015 Dear Editor, We all look forward to this Sunday, May 10, when we celebrate Mother’s Day and the cherished bond between mother and child. Ironically, dairy cows — worldwide symbols of motherhood — never get to see their babies. The newborn calves are torn from their mothers at birth and turned into veal cutlets, so we can drink the milk that nature designed for them. The distraught mothers bellow for days, hoping for their return. Most cows spend their lives chained on a concrete floor, with no access to the outdoors. Each year, they are impregnated artificially to keep the milk flowing. When their production drops, around four years of age, they are turned into hamburgers. This Sunday, let’s honor motherhood and our natural compassion by replacing cow’s milk and other dairy products, all laden with fat and cholesterol, with delicious, healthful, cruelty-free nut or soy-based milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. These are available in every supermarket. Mother cows, and our own bodies, will be most grateful. Sincerely, ELIJAH HANNESBURG The Only Relevant Ism East Hampton May 3, 2015 To the Editor: A few weeks in Europe and in economic and political conversations the terms socialism, communism, and capitalism are never heard. They are little more than philosophical constructs that have little meaning and less value. They are fools’ fodder to anyone who is quasi-literate. We spent six years denying Obama and the country the opportunity to deal with our problems. Socialism, whatever that means, was never the problem. The only relevant ism begins with “race.” NEIL HAUSIG Uninformed Outrage East Hampton April 27, 2015 Dear Dave, In the April 2 edition of The Star a letter appeared on these pages from a frequent contributor alleging that the president of the United States had a “fit” over the actions of Bibi Netanyahu and, in retaliation, ordered the release of classified information regarding Israel’s nuclear program. Such nonsense in the letter called for a fact check. First, the president, like all of us, is entitled to have a “fit” from time to time and probably, in view of the multitude of stressful tasks facing him each day, he is likely to have one more often than the rest of us, especially when both he and the very office of the president are disrespected. I don’t think the president would waste one of these precious “fits” reacting to a cheap political stunt engineered by a targeted, warped idea from a weak Republican leader to favor a foreign leader running for office in his own country, and allowing that foreign political leader to lecture the president of the United States from the floor of the United States Congress, no less. He probably just bridled at the insult to the office he holds. The letter from our local right-wing pundit alleges that while having this so-called “hissy fit” against Netanyahu, the president ordered the unprecedented release of a classified 1967 report concerning Israel’s nuclear program. Understandably, the coordinated outrage that ensued after the release of that 1967 report on the Israeli nuclear program came loud and clear from The Weekly Standard, Rush Limbaugh. Sean Hannity, Mark Levin, and others of their right-wing anti-Obama persuasion — but was stilled, almost immediately, when it was revealed that in 2006 and 2008 the Bush administration had declassified and released documents detailing a secret policy debate over Israel’s nuclear program, and the Department of Defense lost a federal court case in which it tried to deny a Freedom of Information Act request for that 1967 report, and did release 30 documents of the very content these harbingers of scandal had decried. Of course, our local letter-writer from the right — a self-described “well informed” individual — failed to consider the sources of that spurious outrage from the usual suspects on the right, and their imperfect information, and just repeated that uninformed outrage. So tiresome. RICHARD P. HIGER
Published 4 years ago
Last updated 4 years ago
Letters to the Editor: 05.07.15
May 6, 2015