Reinstate Conaway

From The Stokes News:

Dear Editor,

I want to express my appreciation for the prayers and support that Barry and our family has received during this challenging time in our life. As witnessed by the testimonials on the news and in the newspapers, Barry has always gone above and beyond the call of duty. It is a comfort to know that there are people who do appreciate all of his hard work. I could give you hundreds of stories of the selfless acts that Barry had done in his many years of service that on one knows about. Whenever there was a need, Barry was there. No one knows better than me the sacrifices he has made to serve others, especially in serving the town. That is why I find the statements and comments made by Mr. Dearmin and Mayor Hodgkin, publically and privately, irresponsible and inappropriate. It is not Barry’s dignity that is at stake. No one deserves to be treated the way that Barry was treated. If people are angry now, they will be even angrier when they learn why a valued employee was unjustly terminated and how he has been treated.

Anyone who knows Barry knows that he doesn’t talk that much. That is why I am speaking out now. Barry is not making public comments in regard to the circumstances of his termination at this time. He stands by his contention that he was wrongfully terminated. Therefore, he has filed a grievance to appeal his termination. Barry believes that it is appropriate to allow the town due process as they carefully review the actions of Mr. Dearmin and reevaluate the appropriate course of action as they consider his appeal for reinstatement as police chief. Additionally, Barry does not want to limit his recourse options by prematurely disclosing the basis for his claims in the event that an acceptable resolution is not reached with the town and we are forced to pursue legal remedies. The only way that healing can begin for our town and community is for the town to work with Barry and reinstate him as chief.

Please contact or write your elected officials and let them know how you feel. After all, our elected officials are elected to serve all the people, not a chosen few. Several members of our community have written letters and have received responses which they have shared with Barry. If you write a letter or receive a response that you are willing to share, please let us know. We would love to hear from you.

Please join us on Feb. 5 at the next town meeting to support Barry’s reinstatement as police chief. We need your help.

Sharon Conaway

Walnut Cove