There’s been a lot in the news lately about the relationship between Tibet and China. We’ve heard about the protests that have occurred around the Olympic torch as it is carried around the world in preparation for this summer’s Olympic Games that will be held in Beijing, China. Some news stories have also carried the characterizations made by the Chinese government of the Dalai Lama, the Nobel Peace Prize Winner who is the leader of the Tibetan government in exile. But perhaps less is known of the recent history from this distant part of the world.
When the Chinese invaded Tibet in 1950, it ended a long period of peaceful coexistence between the two neighbors. At that time life in Tibet had remained essentially unchanged for hundreds of years, centered around the widely shared Buddhist faith. At that time there were approximate 6,000 Buddhist monasteries in Tibet, today that number has dwindled to about 30 as the Chinese have sought to make Tibet homogeneous with the rest of China.
The Chinese have tried to pin the blame for the current unrest on the Dalai Lama. With claims and counter claims on both sides being presented in the press, it may be difficult from here in New Hampshire to evaluate what the true picture is. An upcoming event in Exeter offers a chance to learn more.
On Wed., May 7, the Dalai Lama Renaissance, a feature documentary film narrated by Harrison Ford, will be shown at the Ioka Theater with a 7:00 p.m. start time. This film has won prizes worldwide and is considered by many to give one of the best portraits of the Dalai Lama available on film (see http://www.dalailamafilm.com/).
So if you’re curious about what’s been in the news concerning Tibet, or you’d just like to spend an evening learning more about the Dalai Lama, please join us for this informative event. Tickets are $12.00 for adults and $7.00 for students and can be purchased at the door. Proceeds will support Aryaloka Buddhist Center and the Tibetan organization chosen by the Dalai Lama.
Stephen Sloan Raymond
To the Editor:
It is more important than ever that we as a Nation let our military Service Members deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan know that they are not forgotten. Letters, cards and care packages sent to our Nation’s deployed Troops serving far from home mean more to U.S. Troops than words can say. Your help is needed to ensure that we never forget those who serve on our behalf.
AdoptaPlatoon is a national nonprofit organization serving the U.S. military by providing a program for Americans to send mail support in the form of cards, letters, and care packages to deployed U.S. Troops. Families, civic groups, clubs, schools and businesses can participate and
let our Nation’s Troops know that they are not forgotten!
To learn how you can support our deployed Troops, visit the AdoptaPlatoon website at www.adoptaplatoon.org and remember a soldier’s words when he says, "Please support us as your sons and daughters who have more than dedicated our lives to keep America great!”
Phyliena Knowles Seabrook
To the Editor:
Support Jeb Bradley
It is the season to start endorsing and working for worthy candidates. Jeb Bradley is my choice as a very worthy candidate and deserves our support.
The question that enters my mind is how can anyone be for Carol Shea Porter when an honest, budget conscious, tax saving, willing, hard working, patriotic candidate for the 1st District of New Hampshire is available? Porter states the job is frustrating and blames others. Too many Americans want to blame others. I wouldn’t tolerate it in my employees or among my friends, why would I accept it in someone who is representing me in congress?
Jeb Bradley is willing to work hard and accept responsibility. What more can we ask?
Mary Smyk Stratham
To the Editor:
Adopt-a-Platoon is a good way to help
It is more important than ever that we as a Nation let our military Service Members deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan know that they are not forgotten. Letters, cards and care packages sent to our Nation’s deployed Troops serving far from home mean more to U.S. Troops than words can say. Your help is needed to ensure that we never forget those who serve on our behalf.
The Kingston Area Junior Women’s Club has adopted several troops over the past 6 years through the AdoptaPlatoon organization. It is one of our most heartfelt projects. Should you wish to donate items for an upcoming care package, we are always in need of new black socks, bug spray, baby wipes, DVDs, small games, gum, hard candy and toiletries. Call 642.7312 to arrange a pick up. If you would prefer to donate to offset the shipping charges, you may assist by sending a check to KAJWC, PO Box 495, Kingston, NH 03848.
Adopt-a-Platoon is a national non-profit organization serving the U.S. military by providing a program for Americans to send mail support in the form of cards, letters, and care packages to deployed U.S. Troops. Families, civic groups, clubs, schools and businesses can participate and let our Nation’s Troops know that they are not forgotten!
To learn how you can support our deployed Troops, visit the AdoptaPlatoon website at www.adoptaplatoon.org and remember a Soldier’s words when he says, "Please support us as your sons and daughters who have more than dedicated our lives to keep America great!”
