November 11, 2009

As Veterans Day dawns, it is perhaps fitting that we reflect on the nearly six years that the NWCRG has so far devoted to challenging the St. Albans Walmart project.  The landmarks of this effort are already chronicled here in the pages of this website; but less has been recorded about the personal toll this kind of long-term struggle takes on the individuals and families that make up our hardworking grassroots group.  Though we span the generations, many of our longest serving and most vocal members are in their seventies and eighties, living on fixed incomes of limited means and struggling with health issues.   These are difficult times for  everyone, and several of our younger members have had the added burden of employment and economic issues added to their load. More than two years ago now, we lost our founder, Sen. John Finn, following a long and debilitating illness.  It is in his memory that we created an award to honor those who distinguish themselves in work that promotes sustainable local economies and environmentally responsible development.

Today, I just want to say how much we appreciate all of our members for their vision and for their personal sacrifices.