OPINIONS - Stone School:
Funding Dilemma or Fundamental Dilemma?

Volume 32, No. 133, Town Meeting 2003, Page 9

By Linda Mazeau Khalsa

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The spirit of Diversity and the spirit of Uniformity are both "languages" in their own right. Each has its purpose and is exalted in its proper place. In a military installation, uniformity is valued above all, and its intention cannot be misconstrued. A town, city or state, however, can choose how it wants to speak; what statement it wants to make, by the style it embraces as its own. Our town has a long history of diversity, freedom of expression and creativity. Can we really afford to succumb to the pressure of uniformity, as many cities have? Will we allow the path to narrow, squash the voices who speak of "different" solutions and visions and encroach deeper and deeper into the private life-choices of its residents, with more and more regulation . . . uniformity . . . and conformity?

We have untapped potential and character in this town; will it unfold or fade away? Who remembers the Seagull Diner in Portsmouth? Does anyone know what became of it? I do. It was picked up and placed on a ship, in its entirety, and sailed off to England. It's now a preserved, functioning, "way cool", 50's dining car - overseas. Near the spot where it stood, now exists an imitation of the snack bar, where people sit on a few stools and reminisce about the original. What are we missing here? What's wrong with this picture?

Let us embrace our heritage, preserve the areas of diversity in our town, cultivate new ones, and encourage their continued use. Creativity is an expression of balance and health. Let's invite both back into Newington.

Entered 2/25/03 by Ricky (Newington Foxes 4-H)