I would like to express my disappointment in the Town of Hartford’s notification of elections, or lack thereof. As a young first-time voter, I was unaware of the deadline to register to vote in time for the August primary, and some of my peers, despite the inundation of campaign ads, were unaware of an election at all. Perhaps town staff could have put a sign outside the Municipal Building reminding residents of the registration deadline and the election, like the current “Taxes Due” sign, or have updated the town website with that information.
In a state that has struggled with voter turnout, especially in an August primary, it is imperative for a town to increase voter enrollment as well as youth participation. I am thankful for same-day voter registration in Vermont, which will start in 2017. However, towns need to do more to encourage and allow citizens to vote.
Megan Fariel White River Junction
I volunteer in the transportation office at the Upper Valley Senior Center in Lebanon. I recently had two calls within less than half an hour that made me realize that many people in our service area (Lebanon, West Lebanon and Hanover, primarily) are not aware of the services that we provide.
We serve folks 60 years and older or those under 60 who are disabled. The calls to which I refer fit both of these categories — one person under 60 needing transportation to therapy following surgery; the other a retiree who still does some per-diem work, but is no longer able to drive. We are able to accommodate both of these people and they are thrilled that we can assist them. (One was referred to us through social services at a local hospital, the other had been desperately searching for a solution to the problem and just happened to come across a listing for us and called on the chance that we could help.)
We have a group of very kind and courteous drivers who assist people in getting from their door to medical and/or rehab appointments, coming to the center for meals and/or socializing, participating in various programs we offer, going shopping — basically, fulfilling many types of transportation needs that allow people to be independent, for a nominal suggested donation.
I sincerely hope that your readers will spread the word if they know of people who could benefit from our services. We can be reached by calling 603-448-4213.
Sylvia Pinard Lebanon
My family and I imagine the rest of the Upper Valley would like to thank the Crane family for their efforts in bringing the Upper Valley Nighthawks to town. Maxfield Sports Complex became a place to see friends, meet new people and enjoy a night out with your family.
We said goodbye to the players and were reminded that this summer was about encouraging these young men on their journey in life; baseball was just a detail. Thanks again for giving the Upper Valley a great summer of memories. Until next summer, Go Nighthawks!
Wesley Leuthauser Lebanon
On any given day in the Upper Valley, there is a child who is suffering from abuse or neglect. This year alone, approximately 200 local children are in jeopardy. Child and Family Services is an organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and to providing aid for children who’ve been abused or neglected. The services such as child and family counseling, foster care placement and a supervised visitation center for families are supported largely by grants and donations from the community.
The Campout for the Cause fundraiser on Saturday at Storrs Pond Recreation Area in Hanover will provide funds to support children and families in the Upper Valley.
We invite families to join us for part or all of an afternoon of fun games and activities, music, barbecue, raffle and an all-night campout to support abused children in the Upper Valley. We hope you’ll agree that it’s a great way to spend a Saturday while also helping others in our community. For details on the event, go to CFSNH.org. We hope to see you at the pond!
Suzanne Dudley, Lynn Sheldon and the Upper Valley CFSNH Board West Lebanon
Have you ever visited the Bema on Dartmouth College’s campus? If not, there is a perfect way to experience the tranquility of this gem. The beautiful outdoor amphitheater will be home to “YOGA! Take Cancer to the Mat” on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This one-day event will raise awareness and funds to help the fight against cancer. All proceeds will go to cancer research and patient support services at Norris Cotton Cancer Center.
There are numerous studies that show the health benefits of both yoga and meditation. Stress reduction and relaxation are keys to healing and maintaining continued health. We hope yogis and others will join us as we celebrate life and health and experience the connection of healing energy. Those registered may take one class, or spend the day and take the challenge of multiple classes. Amazing yoga teachers from the Upper Valley and beyond are donating their time and expertise to lead us through different styles of yoga.
We are grateful, too, to have Bill and Susan Morgan, faculty members of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy, lead a midday guided meditation. We will close this very meaningful day with a yoga class to live music. Come be part of this day and bring health to your lives while doing something about cancer. All-day yoga in a peaceful environment surely is the perfect way to enjoy one of summer’s final weekends, please join us! Information is at yogatakecancertothemat.org
Shelley Gilbert, Board Chair, Friends of Norris Cotton Cancer Center Etna