Civility in town affairs

The editorial of the Bennington Banner concerning the degree of incivility extant within many towns here in Bennington County, as it pertains to governmental and community affairs, should be an eye-opener for us all; the alarming frequency at which it has been occurring poses a direct threat to us all. I applaud both the courage and foresight of those taking a stand in Shaftsbury and hope we all shall follow similarly by their example.

The editorial’s text only strengthens the resound that it is every single person’s civic responsibility to make certain that civility is encouraged and maintained at every level of political and governmental interaction(s). Without this, our entire democratic process and the fundamental structure of our governance is at risk.

The juvenile outbursts and/or commentary demonstrated by fellow members of the public and those in elective office that I have witnessed firsthand in the town where I reside are an embarrassment to the entire populous of Vermont, at best, and are state statutory illegalities at worst.

Attempts at intimidation or deprecating remarks are akin to bullying. Bullying is not acceptable behavior among children and the ramifications of allowing such are exceptionally grave. Why would adults then essentially allow bullying to take place in situations where democratic exchange within public forums (online or in public places) should not only be tolerated but is precisely the very reason why a group has assembled to begin with?

Silence constitutes acceptance.

Without the regular attention to and removal of the putrid decaying components of an edifice, the entire foundation shall eventually crumble.

KATHY GAFFNEY

Pownal

All in the family

Thirteen members of the Forrest clan participated in the Race for the Cure. Jessie Forrest is proud to say that her 9-year-old twin great-grandsons won first and second prize in the 9- to 12-year category.

Tucker and Calvin Kennett were the happy winners.

JESSIE FORREST

Manchester Center