Without first responders, my outcome would have been different

While visiting a friend’s farm in North Bennington on Aug. 3 of this year, I was involved in a serious farm accident that resulted in my hospitalization in Albany for eight days.

The Shaftsbury volunteer fire department, along with the Bennington Rescue Squad, was there to give me the necessary lifesaving treatment that I required.

Oftentimes we neglect to commend those first responders whom we see every day, but fail to realize what an important job that they do for us in this community. These dedicated men and women on the volunteer fire departments give up their time and in some cases, money, to help not only respond to calls, but also get the training that they require to do the job.

The men and women of the rescue squad do a difficult job that is far more than just going through town with red lights and siren on. It is also important that residents take a moment to learn basic first-aid. Due to the remoteness of the area, my friend, relying on his Eagle Scout training from some 40 years ago, gave me the necessary first-aid until help arrived some 25 minutes later. Without that first 25 minutes along with the EMS response, the outcome would have been far different.

If you live in a rural fire protection district and there is a "stuff the boot" drive or a bake sale to raise money, take a moment to make a donation. If you see a paramedic, make sure you thank them for their service. I did not anticipate when I came to my friend’s farm, that I would be leaving it in an air ambulance en route to Albany.

I have enjoyed my time in Bennington and the surrounding area in the past, and look forward to returning next summer. To prevent further injuries, my wife has informed me that I am limited to a 6-inch garden trowel rather than any mechanical tools. Regardless, I look forward to my return.

MARK C. MEDLYN

Champaign, Ill. Now aware of the BCA, and recommend it

There are still undiscovered secrets in Vermont. One such is the Bennington Center for the Arts, tucked off Route 9 East on Gypsy Lane.

My wife and I had the pleasure of meeting Bruce Laumeister and Elizabeth Small, the founders of the Bennington Center for the Arts, at a recent gathering.

Bruce talked a bit about the Native American art on display at the center. We found there some of the most amazing Native American artworks we have ever seen. And it was here in our backyard.

Shame on me for passing this place so often and not stopping, but I guarantee I’ll now be a frequent visitor. If you haven’t been, do yourself a favor and go. The website is thebennington.org.

STANLEY and

ELIZABETH ROSENBERG

Manchester