Merle Dustin, Contoocook, NH

Ten months ago I had an epiphany -- an awakening of intense interest and attendance at the Selectmen, School Board and Budget meetings and the informational Taxpayers Association (Truly the latter is more than '22 hard core' citizens destined to 'rule the world'-- information is the watchword!)

I would like to express my and I hope the town's gratitude to all my fellow taxpayers who exhibited a genuine concern for the governance of our special community! The hours they contributed to this endeavor showed selfless commitment to our unique New England way of life -- true patriotism.

We gave them the reins but we are the drivers and if we feel they've strayed from our dreams then we've ourselves to blame for not attending even an occasional public meeting to hear, observe, question and comment. Setting them adrift and then belly-aching at the direction they've taken and simmer and stew over their supposed misdirection they've assumed (particularly when our tax bills arrived) is a disservice and not worthy of us!!

I commend them all for the tremendous effort they've given this past year. We welcome the 'new blood' and Godspeed to those who have been so generous in their past dedications. You deserve a well earned rest but don't fade from the scene-- we need your continued interest and expertise!!