Keep border open

I am writing in response to the Aug. 14 article, “Gates going up at remote Maine border crossings.” As a part-time resident of Forest City, I would like to point out how ludicrous this plan is, never mind insulting to our Canadian neighbors.

Forest City is a community that crosses the Maine and New Brunswick border. Family and social relationships exist on both sides. If there is a medical emergency, an ambulance or family car is free to cross the border after hours to reach emergency treatment in Houlton – one hour away through Canada. If the border is closed, the trip around East Grand Lake on the American side takes another 30 to 45 minutes longer.

Residents are wondering how the international bridge will be plowed in the winter with a gate across.

Building a Berlin Wall or Maginot Line on Canadian border crossings will not prevent terrorism. There are many unprotected places to cross the border. A gate in Forest City or Orient isn’t going to prevent someone intent on coming into Maine.

Instead of harassing local residents trying to bring food or cut flowers to a bereaved home, as happened last week, it behooves us in the United States to think about the reasons for terrorism directed against us.

Pamela Taylor

Brookton