Archive for June 2011

Letter To The Editor: Rally Around The Flag

Once again, I am compelled to address the desecration of our flag by those who do not comprehend the meaning of the U.S. flag. Our flag is the symbol of freedom and democracy in this country, and around the world. It epitomizes what our military personnel defend and rally around. It is sacred and must not be desecrated.
Unfortunately, the U.S. Supreme Court in 1989 ruled it is legal to desecrate the flag under the First Amendment of our Constitution’s right of free speech.
The U.S. House of Representatives will consider H. J. Res. 13 shortly, which prohibits the physical desecration of the flag. A parallel resolution, S.J. Res. 19, will go before the U.S. Senate in coming months. Two thirds majority votes in the House and Senate are required to put forward a constitutional amendment for ratification by the states.
Please contact your state representatives and senators and ask them to support these resolutions. Over 1,200,000 U.S. military personnel have died promoting freedom and democracy in the world, and our flag is the symbol that embodies their sacrifices.
We have to rally around the flag.

Donald A. Moskowitz
Londonderry, NH

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Martin Authorized To Issue No-Burn Edicts

By Ginger Jarvis
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Due to the near-drought conditions prevailing in the area, the Madison City Commissioners authorized Fire Chief Alfred Martin to issue no-burn announcements at his discretiion. The board took the step at its regular meeting on June 14.
Martin said that he will consider information and warnings from the U. S. Forestry Service as guidelines for issuing bans when appropriate.
In other business, the board discussed restoration and protection of the Four Freedoms Monument. Cindy Vees, interim Chamber of Commerce Director, said that the Chamber has been asked to spearhead cleaning the monument. Mayor Jim Catron said that he will consult with Roy Smith, local marble worker, to assess the problems with the statue and offer suggestions for cleaning and repair. He added, “We would need to consider how to protect it after cleaning and restoration.”
The board also discussed changing its present policy regarding sewer-line work at the Madison Heights apartment complex. City Manager Harold Emrich said, “The city now has a policy of cleaning out the sewer lines and charging the owners $300. This should be something that they hire the private sector to do.”
Emrich cited a recent call in which city employees caused some damage to an apartment, which cost the city to repair. He said that city workers are not plumbers and should not be working on private property.
Commissioners Judy Townsend commented, “We have been providing this service as a courtesy.”
Commissioner James Stanley asked, “Are we doing it for everyone?” Emrich replied, “No.”
Commissioner Myra Valentine said, “We are taking jobs away from the private sector by doing this.”
The board agreed to consider the policy and contact the apartment owners to find a way that residents can get help in a timely manner.

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PUT ON A HAPPY FACE: CREWS KEEP PAINT CURRENT ON HIGHWAY 90

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Submitted by Pat Lightcap

It has given one a secure feeling to see the effort that has gone in to keeping all of the paint striping current on Highway 90 as the new surfacing has been added. This helps all of the drivers to stay in their lanes and know where the turning lanes are. This has not been easy with the multiple layers of new pavement being added. But it has kept us save and even added a little humor if we take the time to notice. The face painted at the intersection of Hwy 90 and Range indicates the painter had a little extra material and a good attitude to brighten our day.

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TURTLE “DIGGING” ON SHORE AT LAKE FRANCIS

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Submitted by Pat Lightcap
Those back legs were really working in digging a pit for some purpose on the shore of Lake Francis in downtown Madison. Maybe it is time for bring up another family of the shelled creatures that populate the local waterway. If you find one in this posture please try to not bother the work in progress.

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