Thank you for your coverage of our efforts to finally have a vocational education facility in western Washington County.

While the reporter duly noted the efforts of Rep. Ed Dugay, it should be understood that other members of the Washington County delegation are working to secure these funds. Sen. Kevin Raye has been a champion of education in Washington County, not only in this issue, but also in challenging the Essential Programs and Services formula that could have dire consequences for so many Washington County schools. Our delegation has been united in supporting our region’s educational needs.

I would also like to applaud the efforts of the dozens of people from the region who have worked for a decade to get a vocational center this close to a reality. The story also failed to mention the most critical player in this effort, the Washington County Education and Economic Development Alliance. This group of educators, job training professionals and business people worked tirelessly for three years to perfect a way for the community to take real advantage of a facility like this.

When something good happens in Washington County, there are many people to thank, and this facility will be no exception.

Dianne Tilton

Executive director

Sunrise County

Economic Council

Machias