I have been very troubled that so much of our social and political discourse has become confrontational and hostile. In an effort to set a different tone in the upcoming election in Deerfield, I reached out to Tim Hilchey and Dave Wolfram, the two candidates for the Selectboard in Deerfield, and asked both of them if they would be willing to jointly plan and hold an informational meeting in the spirit that we can have our differences but we can discuss them in a respectful and civil manner. They both agreed and they will hold an informational gathering on Friday, April 25, at the Polish American Citizen’s Club located at 46 South Main St. in South Deerfield.

This event is open to all Deerfield residents with doors open at 3:30 p.m. for refreshments and the structured event from 4 to 5 p.m. I commend both of these gentlemen for agreeing to hold this event and for being willing to serve our town in this important, and sometimes thankless, role. I encourage all Deerfield residents to attend, get informed and then vote on May 5. One of them will win and one will lose, but we can all remain as neighbors.

Rita Detweiler

Deerfield