Pinehurst, the village, and Pinehurst Inc., the resort, are both national icons. They were conceived, designed and constructed simultaneously for a purpose. Together they evoke a feeling of tranquility and a leisure lifestyle that has withstood the test of time.

This iconic image brings value to all who associate with it and is enhanced with each year that passes, if and only if the investment is made to preserve it. Owner Robert Dedman Jr. and his family have chosen to honor, protect and preserve the rich history of the resort by investing millions of dollars in it annually.

The Pinehurst Village Council and all its citizens recognize their responsibility to protect the brand name that Pinehurst has become. Like the Dedmans, we shoulder that responsibility with the taxes we pay to maintain its value.

We recognize and salute our fellow citizens in Pinewild of Pinehurst, who have valiantly and at risk of censure by the malcontents among them, spoken of the deep appreciation they have for what Pinehurst represents and the responsibility we share for maintaining it.

To those malcontents, who continue to prosper by and willingly use Pinehurst, the name, and the beautiful image it has become without paying the required taxes to support it, we say shame on you. We ask no more of you than of anyone who would come here to be a part of this great heritage that we choose to enjoy and preserve.

We also have gated communities of wonderful people who contribute their time and talents selflessly in many ways to our community and county and still share the tax burden to maintain its capital requirements.

You all voted to be annexed when knowing it would be decided to make Pinewild of Pinehurst your home.

Jerry Ritter

Pinehurst