To 'Oakdale Parent': An Open Answer to Your Claims

Why don't individuals run for elected office?  The answer became very apparent to me last night upon reading “Oakdale Parent’s” answer to Mr. Caouette’s Letter to the Editor.  “Oakdale Parent” used a pseudonym versus a personal name to hide their true identity, yet had no difficulty in throwing my past into the political arena.  The quote was as follows: “how about the fact the republican mayoral candidate was subject to the start of a lawsuit over tens of thousands in owed back town taxes.”  As I am repeatedly told, expect anything and everything to be said when running for Mayor.

I believe every individual can speak freely; it is our Constitutional right.  Millions of Americans have perished to uphold and cherish this right. Additionally, I believe in the truth. I have made every effort to instill this virtue in my children and try to lead by example.  To this end, I will answer this nameless individual’s claim.

Yes, I did owe back taxes almost a decade ago. No, I was not sued nor taken to court by the Town. That is the simplest answer, however further explanation is required. Please bear with me readers, for the rest of the story is rather difficult.

I began owing back taxes following my husband’s quadruple bi-pass surgery.  Because he was self-employed, the insurance did not cover even half the amount.  About a year following his surgery, I was hit by a drunk driver on Route 32.  The selfish, irresponsible person who hit me from behind didn’t even apply their brakes. The impact was so intense that it bent the frame of my Jeep into what resembled the letter A.

That night, I didn’t feel much pain other than soreness to my body and neck.  The paramedics explained to me that I was experiencing an adrenalin reaction and I may be more sore in the morning.  Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.  Instead, when I awoke the following morning, I could not walk.  After being rushed to the emergency room, I learned that I sustained four herniated discs in my upper neck as well as other internal injuries.  My life altered dramatically in one night.

I took my first steps with a walker then gradually was able to use a cane.  Physical therapy, doctors, and a lot of self-pity combined with anger was my weekly routine. My children, friends, and religious beliefs were my anchors to rehabilitation.  I eventually realized I couldn’t sit at home and dwell in self-pity, so I began to take classes at Three Rivers.  I continued with the doctors and therapy, but the self-pity turned to strength.  I learned that I could excel in college and continued through my Associate, Bachelor, and am currently finishing my Master’s degree. 

So again “Oakdale Parent,” I did owe taxes.  I paid them in full and with interest.  This can be verified by the Tax Collector. Did I have a valid reason for falling behind on my taxes?  You can judge by my story.  Finally, I believe that malicious misinformation is one of the main reasons why people don’t want to run for elected office. No one want’s to put their family through the torture of the gossip mill. 

I am blessed; for those who supported me during my trials, support me now.  Whether I will make a quality Mayor or not, is for the voters of Montville to decide.  As for me, I am thankful for each day, because I can get out of bed and walk in the sunlight. And yesterday was a beautiful day!