To the Editor:

The citizens of The North Country are good people and our harsh weather and adversity seem to only make us better. During Blizzard of ‘77, fire halls and homes opened to stranded travelers and during The Ice Storm of ‘98, neighbors helped neighbors. When someone is down on their luck and lacks money for medical expenses, communities rally to organize fundraisers.

If there is a house fire, collections of clothing and furniture are quickly gathered for the unfortunate inhabitants. Just recently in Jefferson County, “The Adopt a 2020 High School Senior Program” was instituted to provide gifts and encouragement to the students who lost their proms and traditional graduation ceremonies because of Covid-19. In The North Country, we don’t ask “if” we should help but rather “how” we can help.

I worry that national and state politics are diminishing our sense of community, that the name calling and divisiveness are hurting us. Like the rest of the country, when we fight each other nothing gets done. We must never forget that we share a common destiny. And we must continue to be role models for our young people as we show them that cooperation and civility are needed for both a productive country and a bright future.

A few weeks ago, I heard Alex Hammond, candidate for the NYS 116th Assembly District, talk on a local radio program. He did not engaged in name calling and negativity but spoke with great knowledge and grace about the issues facing our area. Soon after, I was able to meet to him in person. He sincerely listen to and cared about my concerns. I believe Alex will be a great advocate for The 116th District.. He has lived in our district his entire life and knows about our hopes and needs. He understands who we are and believes in our potential. He wants to work with each one of us, regardless of our party affiliation or background. He really cares about this great place we call home.

I whole heartily support the candidacy of Alex Hammond and sincerely hope that he is our next NYS 116th District Assemblyman. I encourage people to vote for him on November 3.

Joyce Nicholas

St. Lawrence University alumna