Thwarting the People’s Will 

If this year’s primary has demonstrated anything, it is that American voters need to assert their will over party politics. Both the Democratic and Republican national committees at the state and nationwide level have instituted rules (without the vote of the public) to assert their will over that of individual voters.

We did not vote for the institution of the “super-delegate” interference. We did not vote for rules, such as those in New York, that require those wishing to change their party affiliation to do so many months before voting in the primary. We did not expect that the super-delegate system or any other process would be allowed to assert its will over that of the people.

People are absolutely right: Elections are rigged. Elections have become a game being played by the influential with rules that the people have no influence over. We have misplaced our trust in party committees. It is time for the people to take control of their vote.

In our great state of Vermont we have governors and senators standing firm and saying, “Well, I promised my vote to so and so, and I am not going to betray that individual regardless of the people’s will.” This is not right. It raises questions about whose interest they are protecting. You need to research why the super-delegate system, redistricting and a multitude of other processes were enacted and decide if this represents your will or someone else’s. Speak out for change.

Sylvia Heath

Hartland Four Corners

The Depth of Deception 

Any skier who has ever come across a Jay Peak snow report could have told you that the company was engaged in fraud. While it’s true that northern Vermont often gets more snow than other parts of the state, Jay’s inflated inch-counts were enough to make even a fisherman blush.

 Philip Glouchevitch

Hanover

Host a French Student 

I am writing to share information about a wonderful enrichment opportunity for teens in the Upper Valley. 

I am a former Windsor High teacher and current French teacher at the Upper Valley Waldorf School who is coordinating with Vistas in Education. This program was a success in 2012, and I am thankful to be offering it again. Between July 6 and 27, students from France are coming to the Upper Valley to immerse themselves in American family life with teens in our area who share their age and interests. These teens from France have chosen Vermont and New Hampshire over all other choices in the U.S. These students, who are between 13 and 18, have been selected to go abroad based on their maturity, adaptability and sensitivity to other cultures. They are eager to practice speaking English and learn about our culture. 

As a host family, you will enjoy the rewards of sharing your daily life and culture with a French student. Opening your home for three weeks can be just the beginning of a friendship that will last a lifetime. Families may “share” a student if scheduling conflicts arise. 

Each host family will receive a Host Family Handbook to ensure success for all. The French students will also be prepared with an orientation meeting in France and materials that cover cultural differences. A French chaperone will accompany the students and will be available during the stay to help as needed. I will also be available at all times to help ensure a wonderful experience for all involved. Contact me at 603-443-0480 or by emailing brooksdr@hotmail.com. To read more about the program, visit www.vistasineducation.com/hosting. Please note that May 1 is the deadline for applications.

Merideth Jackson

Lebanon

Democrats Should Heed Biden 

I am sick of these hypocritical ads from Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid calling for the Republican- controlled Senate to throw away decades of precedent when it comes to nominating and confirming a Supreme Court justice during an election year. In 1992, then-senator Joe Biden called for an “election year blockade” to Supreme Court nominations to “preserve the vacancies” until after the presidential election.

Joe Biden is absolutely correct. There should be no hearings. There should be no confirmation. The Democrats should heed the vice president’s advice and adhere to the “Biden rule.” We all know that if the shoe were on the other foot, and Reid controlled the Senate, they would not hold hearings for a conservative-leaning nominee. Thank you to Sen. Kelly Ayotte for standing with the people!

Karen M. Cervantes

Lebanon

An Act of Patriotism

I recently wrote a letter to the editor calling for an increase in income taxes to fund our federal government. I have been surprised and delighted at the positive response I have received. I thought most people would be against such an idea.

Following up, I forgot to mention in my letter that making a donation to the government to reduce the national debt would also be helpful, as well as patriotic. This can be done by mailing a check to: Attn Department G, Bureau of the Fiscal Service, P.O. Box 2188, Parkersburg, W.V., 26106-2188.

I’m sorry to say that this is not considered to be a charitable contribution for tax purposes. 

Stephen Neirman

Thetford