As a resident of Glenburn, I am saddened and embarrassed by recent town events reported on the front page of your Jan. 5 MidMaine section. Unless I misread the pulse of my community, there seems to be something devious and sinister going on, and it doesn’t involve the school board. Veilied accusations about the conduct of respected and self-sacrificing citizens seem to be bantered about for some undefined reason.

Could there be some political advantage being sought by Rep. Julie Winn and her husband, Councilor David Owens? Do repeated questions about Sherry Applebee’s conduct (accusations that are completely baseless) have anything to do with the expiration of her term on the school board this June? Is the political mud thrown my Ms. Winn in the paper and Mr. Owens at our council meetings a true representation of the way we in Glenburn live and operate? I think not! Glenburn is a decent community with wonderful people doing wonderful things.

Ms. Winn and Mr. Owens seem to have misunderstood our compensation for town councilors and school committee members. This compensation is a stipend for their activities. The word “stipend” comes from the Latin “stipendium,” meaning “tax, tribute.” The dictionary defines “tribute” as “payment, declaration, or other acknowlegement of gratitude, respect, admiration.”

We shouldn’t let a few distort our method of public compliment through false and improper allegations. We should be thanking our elected representatives (at least those who serve us well) for the hours they give us away from their families, friends, jobs and recreation. We should acknowlege their contributions and their work for the common good. We shouldn’t be searching for division and dissention. And we shouldn’t be using half-truths for political gain. Stephen B. Rich Glenburn