Whose town is it, anyway?
Of course I feel it is mine. You probably feel that way, too. Take care of it, praise it to the skies (even when it’s a challenge to do so) and take pride in your community.
Do you have any idea why we can take pride and what it means to even have a community where we can go most anyplace, say most anything and never give it a second thought? Many people who live in Windham today don’t remember any wars – some old folks like myself can remember more than enough. Some families have youngsters (and some oldsters!) serving in the military right now. If you don’t remember a war, never served in the military and don’t know anyone who has or is now serving, you are one of the minority. Nevertheless, each of us owes a debt to those who served and are serving in the Armed Forces. Never forget it.
I’ve heard people rave about how nice it is in Raymond to see the flags along the road. Well, they didn’t just grow there!
The American Legion here in Windham is trying to erect flags in Windham, too. They also need to raise funds to buy flags, poles, supports and provide for continued maintenance (cleaning, replacements, etc.). When people say “the town” I wonder if they realize that the town is us. It’s not an entity that functions separately. If you feel “the town” should support this project, now and in the future, let your town councilor know. Perhaps if enough people send a message, it will be received.
Meanwhile, as part of “the town,” and especially if you are one of those who praise what’s been done in our neighboring town of Raymond, and would like to see it done here, then please send a donation to the American Legion, Box 1776, Windham, ME 04062 (mark the check or envelope with the words Flag Project). Then we can pat ourselves on the back.
Speaking of our veterans, Sunday is Veterans Day. That’s right. You might have Monday off, but on the real commemoration is at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Windham Veterans Association invites you to the third Veterans Day Ceremonies at that time, at the veterans center behind the Windham Mall. The occasion will include special guest speakers and you’ll have a chance to meet and mingle with veterans as well as enjoy refreshments. View the beautiful memorial garden and rest on one of the many dedicated stone benches. Despite vandals and stupid disruptions, this peaceful corner of the town continues to thrive thanks to the work and donations of many volunteers. Honor the veterans by attending this important event. I want there to be so many people in attendance that it’s standing room only!
Knitters:
Want to do something to help others? I know a lot of folks who love to knit. Mittens, hats and scarves would be so very welcomed by Madeleine Roberts who heads up the Food Pantry and Clothes Closet here in town. When those Christmas baskets are packed, it’s a wonderful surprise to tuck in a pair of mittens or a hat or scarf. There are hundreds of people in town who unfortunately are not in that median income range we see quoted in so many places. Their hands get cold, too.
See you next week!
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