Our highest esteem and gratitude go to the majority of Town Council members who voted in favor of The Salamander Inn proposal, thereby ensuring that 350 rolling acres of pristine hunt country retain their character and integrity.

Our hats are also off to Sheila Johnson, owner of the 350 acres, who withstood the slings and arrows of local Luddites for over two years with grace, civility and a commitment to the traditions we all revere.

Why did it take so long to accept Dr. Johnson's offer to pay for our new water system?

How is it possible that a day before the July 14th Town Council Meeting at which the final vote was taken, certain members of the Council still did not have all the facts at their disposal?

Never mind. Thanks to Mark Snyder's ability to see the situation clearly, and to argue a powerful case for Middleburg to Dr. Johnson's lawyers, we all won.

It won't be long until everyone in and around Middleburg will be taking credit for clairvoyance and perspicacity as Salamander Inn rises in its beautiful park to become a refined and welcome addition to the environs.

Let's forget the fight and welcome the decision.