Following the recent vote to retain our beach access (the failed West Wharf land swap), a number of voters went out to the deck of the Surf Club to sit on the retaining wall. It was a sunny, warm day in November and folks were clearly enjoying the gorgeous view and soaring seagulls.

How lucky we are to have public use of this beautiful waterfront property! It could've been large private homes, had not the residents more than 30 years ago agreed to purchase the Surf Club for $435,000-a huge sum back then. They had the foresight to make the personal sacrifice to leave this jewel to future generations-us.

With the Griswold property, we again have the opportunity to make our endowment to secure this priceless vista for our town. Possible uses include, among others, soccer fields, ball fields, an open air arts theater, and two meandering walking paths that'll allow us to happily coexist with nature. It'll let us protect hawk nests, the saltmarsh treasure, and include perhaps a kayak and canoe "blueway trail."

For a modest $68 per year, per family, we can say to our children and residents after us that the Madison we've protected so far was well worth our contribution and continues to be the gem on the shoreline. We're the only town that has a significant stretch of scenic Route 1. I would encourage anyone interested to contact SGOD to make an additional donation to further ensure that we make a personal commitment to this purchase.

It is our last chance. Meager real estate sales mean that LeylandAlliance has limited sales potential and is willing to sell it to us. This is our gift to the town. I encourage your readers to consider this carefully and vote "Yes" on Jan. 26.

Bettina Braisted

Madison