Opinion

More than a political race in Claremont this week

By CHARLENE LOVETT
By Charlene Lovett

On Feb. 11, Claremont voters will participate in the New Hampshire first-in-the-nation primary, electing their party’s choice for the White House. It is a political race that has captured the attention of the nation and brought presidential candidates to the city on numerous occasions. Once the polls close, Claremont will turn its attention to a race of a different kind. On Feb. 15, Arrowhead will hold its 13th Annual Cardboard Sled Race. Though entirely different in nature, both races will require participation to be successful.

Tuesday’s presidential primary is an opportunity for citizens to have their voices heard on who the frontrunners should be in the general election. The polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voting for citizens from Wards I and II will be at the Claremont Middle School. Ward III voting will take place at Disnard Elementary School. For those who are unable to vote at the polls, Feb. 10 is the last day to apply for and return absentee ballots in person. The last day that mailed absentee ballots can be accepted is voting day, Feb. 11.

When going to the polls to vote, please remember to bring identification such as a driver’s license, passport or military ID. For those who are not registered to vote, residents are invited to register that day at the polls. All that is needed is proof of citizenship (i.e. passport, birth certificate) and proof of residency (i.e. utility bill). A truly successful Primary will be maximum participation. During our last presidential primary in 2016, 64% of Claremont citizens voted. Let’s surpass that number in this year’s primary.

Four days after the primary, the Claremont Arrowhead Association will hold its annual Cardboard Sled Race at the Arrowhead Recreation Area at 2 p.m. If you haven’t had a chance to attend this race in previous years, it is a great event and the creativity that goes into designing and building the sleds is amazing. Participants can enter under the category of youth, adult, family or business.

The cost of entry is $10 for one person, $15 for two-person team and $20 for three or more. All sleds must be comprised of cardboard and tape only, but tape cannot be used on the running surface. Only wax can be used on the running surface, enabling sleds to pick up speed which will vary depending upon weather conditions. Sled decorations and costumes are encouraged. Registration will be held in the main lobby of the Lodge from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Prior to the Cardboard Sled Race, there will be a Pancake Breakfast from 8am to 10am in the Teal Room of the Sugar River Valley Regional Technical Center. All proceeds from both the breakfast and the sled race will benefit the Arrowhead Recreation Area. For more information about the sled race or the breakfast, please go to www.arrowheadnh.com.

Whether voting for a presidential candidate or supporting a community event, your participation is critical to a successful outcome. I hope to see you at the polls on Tuesday, Feb. 11 and again on the slope on Saturday, Feb. 15.

Charlene Lovett is the mayor of Claremont and a 22-year Army veteran. She welcomes your feedback. Please email questions, comments or concerns to her at [email protected].

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