The end of summer is upon us and election season is near. A couple of drives in the countryside before all the political signs appear seemed like a good idea.

The Sunday outing was from Starks to Mercer and on to Smithfield. The Labor Day trip involved Starks to East Madison by way of Madison/Anson. Both revealed much about of the world we live in.

The weather was wonderful both days. Sunday started with my traveling companion and I passing a family reunion where a major focus entailed dressing out a recently shot bear. The first stop was another family gathering on the Mercer shore of North Pond. A horseshoe tournament dominated that event. This was followed by a beautiful ride through Smithfield Village.

Just south of the built-up environment we encountered a herd of escaped cattle that were attracting a crowd of motorists, including a sheriff with flashing lights. We were among many to help with the roundup. The farmer’s daughter-in-law arrived and saved the day. Our return route was by way of the gravel Rome/Mercer Road with a photo stop at the Mercer Meeting House.

My Labor Day drive was solo. Rolling hills of Starks soon gave way to the closed paper mill in Madison. Traffic on Route 201 was heavy. In the last days of boating season Lake Wessserunsett was pleasant. The ride home was by Backyard Farms and acres of glass.

The drives remind one of the attractive place we live and the economic stress we face. Western Somerset County has rich culture and great beauty and we should honor those as we work to improve our futrue.

Paul B. Frederic

selectman

Starks


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.