To the editor:
Our summer people have arrived, and it’s a joy to see clusters of family and friends congregating here and there. As we’ve enjoyed our own company from far and near, Ross and I have delighted on how our visitors are received in our communities as they frequent our businesses. Luckily the hospitality and chalereux acceuil shine through as we have quality of people and place.
Our St. John Valley festivals are upon us; bless those who are tirelessly volunteering to do the necessary labor to make these events successful. It’s the creative economy at its best. The naysayers, narcissists, and obstructionists qui mettent les bois dans les roux should lead, follow or get out of the way of progress.
Last week our former neighbor, Rodney Gagné, and his wife Diana came to Maine to bury his mom, Anna Martin Rioux, a longtime Madawaska teacher. His dad Herman had served in the Fort Kent school system.
When Rodney left for Texas A&M in the mid-70s, we suspected that, like so many other young people, he wouldn’t be back. Sure enough, he met a fellow student, Diana. Their three children have graduated from college, already.
Rodney touched base with his family, friends and neighbors; the responsible child that he was lives. As his mom aged, he brought her to Texas and was there for her until the end. She was his hero, and he was hers. That’s what happens with children; we reap what we sow.
Judy Ayotte Paradis
Frenchville
