NH State Representative Steven Smith

Even though I did not have a Primary opponent, a lot of people took the time to check the box next to my name. There were also a few Democrats who wrote me in on their ballots. I am deeply grateful and humbled by your support, and try hard every day to live up to it.

Steve

As time passes, things can become distant, less real. I still remember how it felt 15 years ago. It is important to remember the sacrifices and bravery of those who helped, and tried to save their fellow Americans. Never forget. In these days of political banter and negotiation, characterizations of “terror”, remember that it is real… not a talking point.

They knocked the World Trade Center down, we put it back up. Life went on. Business was conducted. We are that strong, that resilient. Take a moment today to thank a first responder, policeman, fireman, etc. Thank them for what they have done, and what they may be called to do tomorrow.

Steve

There is going to be a gap in service of 2-3 weeks while the housekeeping gets taken care of, but Southwestern Community Services will be taking over the CATS bus service.  Thank you to everyone who wrote a letter, made a phone call, came to a meeting, or just talked to a friend.  It mattered.

There is a lot of legal paperwork involved, and it just takes time.  That does mean no buses for a couple of weeks while they do it, but after that the service will resume.  Big thanks to NHDOT Commissioner Sheehan for help, without which this would not have happened.  Besides her efforts to find a new provider, the deal with SCS is contingent on NHDOT  providing daily operational support and management during a transition period of at least 3 months.  They don’t have to do it, so I am particularly grateful that they are.

I would also like to thank Claremont Mayor Charlene Lovett.  Most of you know how critical I have been of Claremont’s lack of support.  Mayor Lovett said in a statement that she has received calls of support not only from people, but Claremont businesses.  She has put a lot of effort into this and at a city council meeting, plans to ask the Council straight out how they intend to support the bus service going forward.  I am grateful for her action, and hope that Claremont’s city council takes the issue as seriously as she did.

I would really like to thank the local support from regular people, and the towns who have always worked hard and paid to keep this service running.   That, combined with having solid support for years from Rep. Tom Laware made this a much easier fight to have.

Steve