Letter to the editor: Remembering the late Bruce Alexander

To the editor:

It was gratifying to read Judee Consentino's report on the opening of the new bandstand ramp at this past week's Strawberry Festival. (Strawberry Festival Celebrates North's Spirit, June 11)

However, it was disappointing to note that the most pertinent details about the ramp and its dedication were missing.

The ramp was dedicated to the memory of the late Bruce Alexander, former chairman of the town's Commission on Disability. Since he and others first noticed three years ago that the bandstand was inaccessible, he has quietly lobbied to install a ramp for the use of all.

In addition to being a strong advocate for residents with disabilities, Alexander, also brought that advocacy to his role as chairman of GATRA'sConsumer Advisory Board. He was additionally an active member of the community of the Perkins School For the Blind which now serves the needs of a wide variety of disabilities. Alexander's relationships with various state government leaders was another gift he gave to people with disabilities everywhere as he spoke out for our rights and services.

With all due gratitude to state Rep. Betty Poirier for her presence, the ribbon cutting was actually done by Alexander's widow, Eileen, and their children. Also participating was Mike Lennox, chairman of selectmen, and most members of our town's Commission on Disability. After the ribbon cutting people with disabilities in the crowd joined our small parade of officials up the ramp to the bandstand.

This was only part of our celebration that morning. The Commission on Disability granted the annual Awards For Excellence in the care and respect of residents with disabilities. This year's recipients were: Steve Carvalho, director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, as the individual award winner and the management and staff of Great Clips as the commended business recipient.

Poirier surprised the winners with special proclamations from the state's House of Representative honoring them for the remarkable work they do to support residents with disabilities. This rich story behind the ramp deserves telling. A plaque honoring Alexander will be installed shortly.

Katie Purvis