The right word choices?

To the Editor;

This letter is in reference to the June 23 front page article that appeared in the Piscataquis Observer, “Iconic Summer Eatery to reopen with new name” by Valerie Royzman (staff writer). No offense to anyone.

While reading the article it caused a very nostalgic flashback for me. I grew up in Dover-Foxcroft and now find myself at the young age of 76. Pat’s Dairyland (sometimes referred to as the “Sugar Shack”) was a staple in town for years. 

What I found disturbing was the use of the word: joint referring to Pat’s. Looking up the word “joint” in my Webster’s New Explorer Dictionary, page 354, the word joint is referred to as an often disreputable place. Looking up disreputable page 186 refers to having a bad reputation. 

Further on in the article reference was made about the defunct business. Looking up defunct, page 167, it refers to being “dead.” “Pat’s Dairyland” like “Peter’s Pharmacy” and “Lanpher’s Drug Store” was a gathering place for all and will never be dead. 

The article was very informative and well written otherwise. I do not profess to be astute in the English language, but those two words struck a “chord” with me. 

Congrats to Jimmi Brown for bringing a very missed business back to life. 

Mary Rideout 

Dover-Foxcroft