012397 Mr. Christe's Integrity has Been Compromised

To the Editor:

As a parent of four children who attend schools within the Bedford Central School district, and as a concerned citizen of our community, I strongly feel the need to respond in defense of my fellow community member, particularly since his integrity has been compromised and unjustly attacked. I am referring to Mr. Philip Christe.

I, too, was at the meeting at the Fox Lane High School on January 13, 1997- a meeting that was not highly publicized, for whatever reason. Many parents I spoke to knew nothing about it, but that is not the issue about which I am writing. Mr. Christe brought in a video camera to the meeting. He was questioned about why he wanted to tape the meeting and was promptly told it was unacceptable, that it would  inhibit the spontaneity of discussion and ideas." This exchange took place before the meeting began. When it was about to start, Mr. Christe was told by Dr. Nieburg that he would not proceed with the meeting until Mr. Christe put away his camera. There was a long silence, and the general atmosphere was very intense; it was quite apparent that most of those present agreed with Dr. Nieburg and were openly opposed to not only Mr. Christe's camera, but to Mr. Christe. He was not "repeatedly asked not to record," because Mr. Christe relented to their request and established their permission to only
be allowed to tape the opening remarks after which he put away the camera. The implications that he continued to record the meeting is a false accusation.

Most disturbing, however, (as if being slandered is not it stringent enough an affront to it person's character), is the tone with which you describe Mr. Christe. You openly and publicly rebuke him for his presence at the meeting; yet you yourselves stated that it was "open to the public." Is Mr. Christe deserving of public chastisement for being an active participant in issues that concern him as a parent, a taxpayer, an involved member of our community, and a Fox Lane High School alumnus'? It really necessary to classify it person based on the kinds of questions they raise as you have done with Mr. Christe, thereby labeling him "highly conservative" in his beliefs'?" Isn't that what bigotry is all about'?

I can only commend an individual such as Mr. Christe. He has the courage to stand up and to stand alone in asking the tough questions that are often not raised because of the intimidating atmosphere that prevails at these "open to the public" gatherings. Will you also put those of us who attend your meetings and ask the "wrong kinds of questions "on notice" as well?

Mary Bottino