Independent local news for Acton, Massachusetts
DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. In 1897, 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York’s Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history’s most reprinted newspaper editorial.
In this age of Internet-augmented rage, Town Meeting shows what “civil discourse” can be. Opponents and proponents of a particular action make thoughtful presentations on the merits of the matter and the way in which the Town will be affected. Passionate positions are expressed with moderation.
50’s and 60’s zoning decisions which aimed to preserve the town’s “historical charm,” have priced out all but the more prosperous middle class.
