To the Editor:

Speaking as someone who over the years has traveled and resided in countless locations -- both in the US and abroad -- I feel qualified (no, compelled!) to comment on a Sound Off submission to North Country This Week concerning the importance of colleges in the community (“Colleges Important”, May16-22).

It was written as a response to an earlier “Sound Off” which, in part, suggested that if Clarkson University and SUNY Potsdam weren’t willing to pay taxes on the same basis as do businesses, it might be better for the community if the colleges simply closed and moved to another location.

The responder to the first-mentioned item (who, unfortunately, chose to use the “Sound Off’ route rather than by means of a signed Letter to the Editor to voice their concerns) comments on how very much the colleges bring to the community, going so far as to say that without them there would be no Potsdam -- a sentiment with which I’m in total agreement.

Consider for a moment how the presence of the two colleges in Potsdam contributes to the overall culture of the community: a culture made evident by the helpful, generous, caring and well-informed attitude of a large segment of the citizenry, a culture and atmosphere which -- if we’re to be totally honest with ourselves -- would be noticeably changed without the presence of the colleges. Also consider the money and (as the responding “Sound Off” writer mentioned) employment the college’s presence generates for both small and large businesses.

And think about the almost innumerable concerts, plays, appearances by guest lecturers and artists, sporting events, theatrical productions, art exhibits which are made possible by virtue of the two colleges -- events which are have the power to inspire, educate and entertain adults and youngsters alike – most of them totally free of charge.

Yes, there’s no doubt that if both colleges were to be on the tax rolls it would add to the village and town coffers. But when one considers the “trade-offs”, one must ask where we’d be if they chose to pull up stakes and move to a different community – a community having the wisdom and sense-of-values to welcome and appreciate their presence?”

Much as I like the North Country and plan to stay here until who-knows-when, I hate to think of that eventuality.

Al Vervaet, Hannawa Falls