Daniel Bacon

To the editor:Say no to a methadone clinic.I have been a resident of the Mount Washington Valley since 1983. Over the past month there have been concerns about a methadone clinic possibly opening in our area. I believe that, should a methadone clinic be established, it will bring unwanted elements into the Mount Washington Valley as stated by Selectman Crow Dickinson.Methadone is an addictive opiate drug, prescribed as a painkiller and to reduce withdrawal symptoms in those addicted to heroin and other opiates. Methadone replaces reliance on one drug with reliance on another.Individuals who have drug abuse problems brought it on themselves, and traveling to a clinic is a sacrifice they will have to make. Our residents, children and community should not be unnecessarily exposed to more dangerous, addictive drugs and drug addicts from surrounding areas.The approximately 30 patients from this area traveling to Somersworth for treatment do not constitute a dire need for a methadone clinic in the Mount Washington Valley. Robert Potter, vice president of development for Community Substance Abuse Centers stated that if the town is ardently opposed to a clinic, the company would look elsewhere. They need to look elsewhere. A methadone clinic would bring problems to the valley over time, it is not the solution. Solutions are getting rid of the drugs and those who distribute them.We have families from the other areas, in search of a wholesome, healthy lifestyle looking to relocate to the Mount Washington Valley. Would a methadone clinic convey the Mount Washington Valley as a community with a wholesome lifestyle for prospective residents?I oppose a methadone clinic opening in Conway. Also as a candidate for N.H. State Representative of District 1, I will encourage residents of Chatham, Jackson, Bartlett, Hale's Location and Hart's Location to oppose the clinic as well. I encourage all residents who oppose a methadone clinic to voice your opinion.