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October 2026
NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM
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to return. (Although this is not an unusual demo- graphic activity, Bristol’s rate is higher than the na- tional average.) After wrestling with these important issues, my group (with Cindy’s prompting) turned to more modest challenges that the town could begin to address with the $3000 grant money sup- plemented by other voluntary donations from town clubs and civic organizations.
Practical suggestions were made. Ben shared ideas including the need for a dog park. Scott re- minded us of the value of Bristol’s pathways and suggested their improvement by adding bike racks. This idea was met with enthusiasm and triggered re- ciprocal thinking. Why not have an e-bike charging station? Might we not place more historical signage on the pathways? Could we ensure safety for physi- cally challenged pathway travelers? Where and how many racks might be most beneficial? Our group reached a consensus to convey the bike rack and dog park projects to the reconvened general con- versation. We circled for the general conversation. Coincidentally, Shaun Lagueux, avid forester and Chair of the Bristol Selectboard, sat next to me. He took an active part in the final circle discussion.
By three o’clock, our community conversation had decided which project decisions to forward to NHH in Concord. They included the project to en- hance Bristol’s pathway/trail system with a focus on extending and improving the “Millstream” path as well as continuing work on the new “Pemi”
Path. Those who took part in the community conversation now await the next step in this pro- cess, as advised and assisted by the New Hampshire
A pensive Les Dion listens to an expressive Bill Karkheck.
Humanities organization.
Two final thoughts. During the Saturday meet-
ing, our spirits were lifted by kind words long-time resident Joe Denning shared about the people of Bristol. Thank you, Joe... When I went home, I took a nostalgic look at my disassembled 50-year- old bike...once a beautiful, oft-ridden Univega. Hmm...perhaps it’s time for me to...?!
Happy Halloween from all of us at newfound lake life
