Donaldson's Comments 07/08/2001 Thomas White Chairman Donaldson was right on target in calling for a boycott in response to the passage of the " Blue Ribbon Commission" bill. Let there be no mistake, this legislation and the earlier calls by the Greene County legislature are barely disguised protectionist efforts for the sole benefit of a few wealthy Greene County families. They are arrows aimed right at the heart of the biggest economic engine in western Ulster County. This legislation was bought and paid for by the owners of Hunter and Windham Mountains. If the rest of the Greene County legislature and the NYS legislature wish to go along with putting the future of the entire region at risk for the dubious benefit of a few, they should know that such action is not without consequence. That is what chairman Donaldson's comments are about. Of course, the better plan would be focusing on growing the entire pie. That is what then Gov. Eliot Spitzer stated when he announced the agreement in principle. Over the years numerous efforts have been launched to jointly promote Catskill Skiing, most notably the idea of a "ski the Catskills" lift ticket good for all areas. Hunter and Wndham have consistently chosen not to participate. They have now chosen a most unwise course. Chairman Donaldson's comments may have been "political chest thumping" but goodness knows we need some thumping to raise the awareness of the disgraceful nature of this legislation and the mendacity behind it. Those pawns of the few beneficiaries of this legislation should be called out. I congratulate the Chairman. Candidate Bernardo's lauding of this legislation demonstrates profound ignorance of the background and issues. He should have made an effort to engage his ears before his mouth. Thomas White Big Indian, NY Return to Letters Page
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