Dear Source:
It was with a real sense of sadness that I read your editorial "Dirty Linen Has No Place at Tourism Symposium." For the last two years, I have worked toward one goal — moving to what I believe is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, St. Croix, USVI. My dream is to move my family there and to be able to make a difference.
I am in agreement with you that Gov. Turnbull's behavior at the recent tourism industry dinner seems to be nothing less than a classic case of "biting the hand that feeds you." This single act alone may have the gravest of consequences to all of the Virgin Islands, considering how important tourism is to its economy.
His public conduct also has far-reaching implications for other industries that might be seeking an environmentally clean location that would embrace the economic infusion they would bring.
This leads me to worry about the future. Will the future of the Virgin Islands (its youth) be as accepting and tolerant of living with things as they are, because they have no hope? Or will they find the limits of human endurance and strike out and "bite the hand that stole their future"? It seems to me that the time has come for the people of the Virgin Islands to decide what kind of people they are — and what kind of place they want to live in.
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not talking about a revolution (or am I?). I'm talking about a change in attitude. Government officials are elected to serve the needs of the people that they represent. It is my belief that all men and women have the right to an opportunity to better their lives and to stand up and be counted. All children have the right to an education and to support from their government for them to become responsible adults.
Will I still move to St. Croix? Oh, yes, without a doubt! I am even more convinced that St. Croix is my destiny.
Dana Travis Middleton
Dallas, Tex.
