Letters to the Editor
Oakmont students voice outrage

To the Editor,

This letter is a wake-up call to all the residents of Ashburnham and Westminster who let down all of the students in Tuesday's election. We are very disappointed in the behavior of some of our community members who refused to help our schools in their time of need. Because of this lack of support Oakmont alone has had to sacrifice six of its beloved teachers. June 15 is supposed to be the happiest day of the year, our last day, but this year many rooms were full of tears because we had to say goodbye, possibly forever, to some of our favorite teachers and friends. Oakmont will never be the same for us.

Now we look to our senior year with hesitation because the quality of our education is in jeopardy. In September, when we walk into the school we won't see some of the familiar smiling faces of the teachers that we have come to know and love. This failed override has changed the lives of every student and teacher in our school.

In the past, our school has been one of the most academically successful high schools in the state; this has been a result of small class sizes and the unwavering support from each and every one of our teachers.

We realize that taxes are high and the community has given us continuous support in the past, however these funds are imperative to the educational success of our district's students. This failed override alone could result in the largest budget cuts this district has seen this century.

So once again, the ball is in your court. There will be a second vote this summer to pass an override that will allow us to keep our teachers. The students of the Ashburnham-Westminster School District would greatly appreciate, and benefit from your support.

Kelsea Bilodeau, Erik Schonborg and Samantha Kane

Westminster Resident prepares for another book sale to help non-profits

To the Editor

At my specialty book sales in February I sold 824 books and since the sale I have sold another 20 books. From the sale of the books I made $211.25, which will be split equally between the William J. Bresnahan Scouting and Community Center and the food pantries in town.

My next book sale, the proceeds from which will go the Bresnahan Center, will be at the Senior Center and will start on Saturday, June 30 (Downtown Day). I have been given permission to extend the days of the sale so I will also open on Sunday, July 1, and Monday, July 2. The hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

I will be selling adult fiction (romances, mysteries, espionage, war, horror, science fiction, general and historical fiction, westerns, short stories and classics). There are some craft, diet, exercise and cookbooks. Because I did not sell children's books at my last sale I have may picture books and early reader books, as well as a variety of books for children through grade six. There are also some videos, both for children and adults.

Once again, my thanks to everyone who has supported me, and the various non-profit causes in town, through the donation of books and by coming to the sales to purchase books. Any new donations of adult paperback fiction, any children's books, cook and craft books can be left at the Senior Center for me.

Louise Reid Ashburnham