What are the most significant ways that New Hampshire has changed over the past 25 years? 1. Radical changes in means of communication – internet, media
2. Atomization of the land resource
3. The working life – more service sector jobs, less high-wage blue collar jobs, people traveling further and further to work
4. Growing minority populations in major urban areas
5. Gradual shift in the political complexion toward the center
What in farming and agriculture has changed the most, especially in New Hampshire, over the past quarter century? Agriculture has moved in two distinct directions: Traditional bulk commodity agriculture (dairying, apples) has contracted and consolidated, with fewer and larger farms. “New” agriculture, focused on nearby consumers and very diverse and entrepreneurial, is expanding.
What Granite Stater(s) would you say inspired you? In what way? The late Harlan Logan – journalist, philanthropist, legislator, public citizen.
The late William H. Wallace – geographer, UNH professor, friend.
The late Louise Bailey – high school English teacher at Hanover High.
Each helped me build skills and confidence that have enabled me to take on challenges and move forward.
What would you consider your favorite spot in New Hampshire and why? The Plainfield – Meriden – Cornish community.
It has a wonderfully diverse mix of people who are committed to maintaining local institutions, traditions, culture; it’s a safe place, a friendly place, and it’s where my roots are.
What would you like to see accomplished in New Hampshire over the next 25 years?
- Protect the natural resources of the state.
- Preserve the best features of community governance.
- Assure economic opportunities, good education, and health care for all.
- Resolve long festering public finance issues
