DECEMBER UPDATES
December 1, 2009
We are once again announcing a change in the deadline date for all family histories, stories and photo submissions. We have had a lot of requests to extend the submission date, from those living out of province. We are pleased and thankful for your interest and will continue to accommodate you as long as we are able.
The new date is December 31, 2009.
Remember, there is no limit to the number of photos that can be used with your family's history and no restriction on the length of the history or articles that you wish to submit.
If enough information is submitted we will consider producing a second volume of the Scott History Book.
Some of you are aware that the Town Council and the S.C.C.C. have forwarded to me a letter, which I received late afternoon on Friday, November 6, requesting that I relinquish control of my book and by doing so, agree to inconceivable terms. The following day a hand written flyer was posted to notify the residents of Scott that the S.C.C.C. was announcing their own plans to develop a Scott History Book. On Monday, November 9, the official notice had been posted. An immediate decision could not have been make since I had to take into consideration the consequences of the terms of agreement.
Did I want the book rewritten by someone other than myself, edited and large sections and/or contents removed without my authorization; that would mean I would lose control of the completion of the book and authorship.
Did I want to relinguish all the information, personal histories and photographs and have them channelled through the S.C.C.C. so they could be made available to all subcommittee members; I am personally responsible for all material included in the submissions and without question would not consider releasing anything which is held in my trust.
Did I want the S.C.C.C. financially responsible and in complete control of all the revenue collected; considering that the Cemetery Project would be eliminated entirely, I was informed that "the town owns the cemetery" and they wouldn’t authorize any restoration; I would be adamantly opposed to this request.
This rush decison and such ludicrous terms, leads me to believe it was nothing more than a ruse to either obtain my book and use it for their own purpose, or it was another delaying tactic to ensure that the book never reached the press. I have to ask myself what is this, "Scott History Book" vs. "Scott History Book" - Round One?
And just for the record, I really don't appreciate the Please Note: Some families and individuals have already been contacted regarding a history book for Scott and area. THAT BOOK is being prepared by a private individual and is a project separate from, and unrelated to, the book the SCCC is undertaking. In order to ensure a complete and accurate accounting of Scott's history, the SCCC strongly encourages all families and former residents to submit their family history for publication in THIS Scott History Book. Does anyone besides me find THAT Scott History Book and THIS Scott History Book a bit confusing?
My head is certainly spinning.
This is neither a race to the finish line, a "my book is better than your book" situation nor is it a game. I take my responsibility seriously and I don't have time for this nonsense. I would appreciate not hearing all those vicious rumours and accusations that are consuming our town. They're not only demeaning, they are distracting me from more important issues. After all, I am writing the "Scott History Book."
I have been researching and compiling data for the original Scott History Book for over three years and can't possibily imagine how the Committee can ensure a complete and accurate accounting of Scott's history in such a short amount of time. I can personally say I won't be submitting my history and neither will a lot of my unwavering contributors. Whatever person is responsible for causing all this confusion and turmoil should be ashamed of themselves. It's an act of inconsiderate behavior with respect to all those who are directly connected to the Town of Scott.
I'm sorry that I can't assure you that the book will be as complete and accurate as the S.C.C.C.'s, all I can promise you is that every effort was made to achieve accuracy in facts, dates and details. This book is as much yours and it is mine, so I believe we will all try to do our best to ensure that this project is successful.
One last point: It was mentioned they had concerns (quote) "that numerous people have not submitted their personal information and photographs because they do not know Lynn and the Town is not involved." I can't perceive how they could reach that conclusion considering they have no way of monitoring my mail or my emails. As for the Town not being involved, from what I'm seeing, the townspeople have been very supportive with respect to this project, with the exception of Town Council members.
I really don't understand what these animosity issues are about. We do wish them the best of luck in their endeavor.
If anyone has any concerns, questions or opinions; or are interested in reading a copy of the letters I received, please contact me by email. I would really like to hear what all of you have to say about this matter.
Thanking you again for all your support and effort in ensuring this project is a success.
