Nobody Asked, Just My Opinion!

This week I am writing on behalf of several local folks who are a bit irritated about a couple of things which seem to happen each and every summer here in the mountains!

Now, before I begin, let me start by saying that neither I, nor others of whom I am speaking on their behalf, are picking on any particular person, from any particular state, although it may seem like we are profiling certain folks, we plead the 5th and will begin by stating that for the most part - “flatlanders,” or folks from various other states are very fine people and welcomed here in the north country. No issues with most by any means, BUT, as always, there are a certain few!

Okay, that out of the way, let’s move on to question number one!

Why is it that some folks find it a necessity to feel that when they come up in these parts to camp or to visit, that absolutely nobody else exists and that they can do anything they want, whenever they want?

It is understand that you are on vacation, away from the big city lights, out in the woods, but please remember that there really is other existing life forms who live in the north country (sometimes overheard being called hicks, rednecks or the like) and actually own homes and have to go to work in the morning just like you do! Many times, contrary to belief, we are not necessarily on vacation during the same exact week as you.

Thus, screaming, shouting and blowing off fireworks after say 10:30pm is annoying! Fireworks after say midnight is just a downright intentional inconsideration of those who live here, sleep here and work here.

Now, knowing some visitors are used to the loud sounds of the city and have become used to that fact, we are in the midst of compiling a bunch of loud city noises to place on a CD so that you can comfortably listen to them with headphones on when you are in the north country on vacation. This way you can feel right at home without bothering anyone else. It should be available soon! We are waiting to get some good siren sounds.

Now on to question number two! This question actually comes from several folks who have recently had this problem.

Again, I must start by asking, why it is that those who visit this part of the state feel that when they arrive, all of a sudden, property deeds are automatically turned over to them?

Walking through the woods on National Forest trails or certain state land is fine and totally acceptable, but there are people around here who actually own the land around their homes and scattered other places throughout the area.

Thus, if you are stopping on the side of the road to take a bathroom break, you are probably doing so on someone’s property. You won’t usually see us going to the city so that we can releive ourselves on your sidewalk!

The no trespassing signs, no hunting or fishing signs were not put there by aliens. Most likely they were put there by the homeowner or landowner for a reason. The reason being.. they don’t want people traipsing on their property!

Again, I will reiterate that this is geared to a certain few and not the majority by any means.

Granted the north country is a place of tourism, we rely on it, thrive on it and accept the area in which we live as a tourism prone area, but all most folks up here in these parts ask is that you simply respect those who live and work here. Many are here for a reason, mainly to enjoy the quietness of its surroundings, to take in the nature and wildlife, in which we co-exist with all year round. Even under several feet of snow!

The loudest sounds we are used to is an owl hooting, a loon cry, a moose blatting during rutting season and the occasional sound of a rifle firing during hunting season heard off in the distance. Okay, yes, the snowplow going down the road also!

So I guess, on behalf of several folks I have heard of having these problems recently, they just ask for a bit of respect - nothing more!

Nobody Really Asked! Just OUR Opinion this week!