The debate and the bell
Many thanks to the 70-plus people who turned out for The Berkshire Beacon-sponsored debate last Wednesday between William “Smitty” Pignatelli (D-Lenox) and Lee Scott Laugenour of the Green-Rainbow Party.
It was not a ho-hum type of debate where the candidates put forth their accomplishments and goals. It was lively and sparked some controversy by the two and their followers. (Note: The voters of the 4th District voted Rep. Pignatelli in by a margin of some 16,598 votes to Mr. Laugenour’s 3,611.)
As noted, I acknowledged my thanks to Sharon Hawkes, executive director, for allowing us to use the Lenox Library as a democratic forum, and to John Pignatelli for his former work as a Lenox selectman and county commissioner.
Also, a special thanks to our Beacon editorial team for putting together this event and providing coverage the following day in The Beacon.
These people have come here (with college degrees) at their own sacrifice to ensure the integrity of the news columns and to put out a weekly product reflecting Berkshire County enterprise and independence.
We have one other goal: The cleaning and raising of the Library Bell sitting on the bottom of the cupola, ready to be hoisted and put in place for $2,000.
Rather than have The Beacon underwrite the cost, we feel this is a community bell sounded in the name of freedom and learning.
We are hopeful to gain support from the Lenox Library Board of Trustees this month. A collection of locals have verbally committed to the fund, including Selectman John J. McNinch, owner of the Olde Heritage Tavern, who has agreed to hold a fundraiser in support of raising the bell.
The Beacon has agreed to post a page of thank you “bells” for each contributor of $100 or more. Our goal is to acknowledge the community spirit in raising the bell this holiday season.
Posted by George C. Jordan III
on November 8, 2012. Filed under Editorials,Opinion.
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