The New Hampshire Senate quietly broke with tradition in a flip-flop that has stifled open, democratic debate in our state. The New Hampshire legislature has been unique in putting forth and considering a wide spectrum of resolutions and, from 2010-2012, considered--and openly discussed without hesitation--dozens of resolutions. 

But recently, unknown to most residents, the NH Senate instituted a rule that allows them to refuse to hear resolutions passed by the House.

One that the senate will not hear is HCR2, a resolution that has been passed by thirteen states working to take big money out of politics nationally and restore a one-person-one-vote democracy.

HCR2 asks the federal government to reconsider Citizens United. We need to have a discussion about the obscene amounts of money controlling elections, drowning out voices of citizens, and undermining our very democracy. 

Our senators insist they’re simply streamlining the process by not hearing frivolous resolutions. Does the NH senate consider the erosion of democracy a frivolous matter?  

We should not allow neighborly discussions and substantive debate to be extinguished by onslaughts of million dollar television ads and mountains of glossy flyers from obscure addresses. When elections are dominated by attack-ad sound bites, the potential voter is left with repulsion for the process. Is that the way to uphold and defend democracy?

Call your senators and urge them to suspend the flip-flop rule and hear HCR2 or to sign on to the letter to our congressional delegation stating that we the people want big money out of the political process.

Diane St. Germain

Center Barnstead

Jackie Hamilton addressing the students of Barnstead Elementary School, teachers, American Legion Post #42 members, and guests during the Memorial Day Ceremonies.

Barnstead Yard Sale And Alpaca Saturday

Join us for a Yard Sale and Alpaca Saturday on Saturday, June 8 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at Barnstead Community Market located at 13A Parade Road at the intersection of Routes 28 and 126. There is a large piece of land next the building, which is perfect for many tables to set up. Parking is also not a problem with a large lot in front.

There will be several alpacas visiting us again.  Depending on the weather this soon may be the last Saturday where they’ll be here visiting.  Alpacas come from the mountains of Peru.  They do not like to be in the hot sun for long amounts of time. Without a lot of shade they become very unhappy. Come and learn about raising, breeding and fleece knowledge.  They are friendly animals who love to snuffle at you. They’ll be at BCM from 9 – 4.