As a relatively new resident to New Hampshire and the Cornish Town and Upper Valley community, I was eager to meet new neighbors and participate in community events.
Early on I met Virginia Drye, a young lady from Plainfield who was a candidate for State Representative. Virginia asked to host a community event for the Governor on my property, which I was happy to accommodate. As the event drew near, I became to know Virginia and her family and was impressed with the organizational skills, passion and tenacity of such a young lady thoroughly committed to serve her community and granite staters. As a retired career Federal employee, I lived the ideals of selfless service, responsibility and accountability of one’s actions, and stewardship of national resources on behalf of all citizens. I immediately saw these traits in Virginia. Then I learned just how passionate and committed to serve Virginia really was through her actions.
As a young intern in the Executive Council, Virginia spearheaded an initiative to have the dedication of the Lafayette Trail historical marker on the State House lawn. Her efforts were no easy feat. She was met with the often-typical churning and handwringing of government bureaucracy but her persistence and tenacity prevailed. After nearly 2 years of tracking down the various leadership approvals in both the executive and legislative branches of NH government, Virginia’s efforts were realized and the Lafayette Historical marker was dedicated on the State House Lawn in May 2022. Not bad for a 23-year-old who was able to tactfully challenge and gain approving consensus from those who said “it couldn’t be done”.
Virginia is running to represent granite staters in District 2 in the State House. It is refreshing to see young people such as Virginia with a commitment to serve wanting to represent the people of New Hampshire.
On November 8th, please get out and vote, and when you do vote for those who demonstrate their commitment to serve through ACTION.
Michael Belanger
Cornish, NH
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