One thousand years ago, the world was untarnished. One thousand years ago, the fossil fuels lay in the ground, where they belong. One thousand years ago, the ravages of climate change had not yet struck our beautiful planet.
Today, the world is in disarray. Today, the exploitation of fossil fuels is tearing the world apart. Today, climate change has left its mark on the planet. But it is not finished. Sea levels continue to rise. Hurricanes leave thousands homeless and displaced.
We cannot continue to watch as Earth is torn apart. Yet this is exactly what we have done.
Our leaders are not leading. They see the problem, and ignore it. People say we need a solution. But we already have one. The answer is simple: Switch to renewable energy, stop deforestation, leave the fossil fuels alone. Thousands are suffering, and for what? So the minuscule upper class can live a life of extreme luxury, making billions off the destruction of our planet? Does anyone see the wrong in this? It is about time we woke up. Only you can put an end to this.
Once, I had faith in my government. Once, I thought that my politicians would put a stop to this before things got out of control. But I now know that this is not true. If we want change, we’re going to have to make it ourselves. The wealthy may be at the top of our nation, but we are the ones holding them up. Let go. Boycott fossil fuels. Switch to renewable energy.
When the leaders cease to lead, it is the duty of the people to stand in their place. The future is in our hands.
OLIVER RUDOLPH YUKICA
Thetford
According to the article in the Sunday Valley News, Dartmouth-Hitchcock has “tweaked” its plan for a new patient tower to, in part, eliminate the proposed 400-car parking garage (“DHMC to pitch expansion plans,” Sept. 8). Instead, it will expand an existing parking lot behind Jessie’s Restaurant. The article says that employees can take a bus to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
Thing is, during the business day, the current parking garage is solely for the use of patients and visitors — employees are prohibited from parking there — and at most times it presents a nightmare experience for those trying to find a space. You drive around and around looking for a space. You dodge long-bed pickup trucks that encroach on the “driving lanes.” You may have to go the rooftop to find an empty space. It is not a pleasant task. Add that to the reason for the visit to DHMC and “the adventure” isn’t helping matters.
I believe that the proposed additional garage is needed now. It will certainly be needed when the new building is opened. Patients and visitors deserve a convenient, easily accessible way to do their business at the hospital.
This sounds like poor planning by DHMC. DHMC might want to rethink its proposal to eliminate the new garage. It might want to try to find the funding to return it to the plan.
ALAN TANENBAUM
Grantham
Thank you to the Valley News for making climate change the headline on Saturday (“Making a Statement: Upper Valley rallies join worldwide effort,” Sept. 21) and to the many Vermonters participating in the global climate strikes. The climate emergency should be front-page reading every day.
DEE GISH
Sharon
As a former Boy Scout and longtime Quechee resident, I want offer a special thank-you and a big tip of the hat to the Boy Scouts of Wilder Troop 260 (Pack 26) and their leaders for the great job they did in sprucing up and replacing the fence at the Riverside section of Quechee Cemetery.
Despite less than great weather, the Scouts stuck to their motto, “Be Prepared,” fulfilled their oath to help others, and got the job done.
Thanks very much.
FRANK McDOUGALL
Quechee
As a test, let’s take the guns from the criminals first.
Just as a test, you know?
BRUCE HARTFORD
Lebanon