The history of Pinehurst began back in 1895 with the construction of the core of the village, which included the Village Green. Today we may be beginning to witness the destruction of that history, with the proposed Village Chapel expansion.

When James W. Tufts founded Pinehurst, he did so with a vision. Leonard and Richard Tufts continued that vision set forth by their father and grandfather. It's unfortunate that these days we rarely meet individuals who have a vision, that is, a vision for the good of all and not just for personal gain.

I see that the Village Council has adopted a vision statement, which says, "The village of Pinehurst is committed to protect and enhance its character and lifestyle consistent with the history and tradition that is Pinehurst through progressive, responsive and proactive community services." Is the current council showing respect for the history and tradition of the original vision for the Village Green?

I think Richard Moss put it best in his book, "Eden In The Pines": "Unlike so many American places, for more than a century Pinehurst residents had tried very hard to take care of this place. In the next century, let us hope the village finds such worthy guardians."

Pinehurst is tradition and it is history, all because of one man's unselfish vision. If we start destroying those things we will find ourselves in a place that is ordinary and mediocre, instead of extraordinary and unique. We need those "worthy guardians" on the council.

Linda A. Tufts

Aberdeen