I would metformin weight loss dosage like to begin by saying I sincerely enjoy reading Angela Richmond’s column “Adventures of a New Local.” As a former 18-year resident of Waterville, it is fun for me to hear her viewpoint as she experiences all the offerings I took for granted during my adolescence.

However, I have been somewhat disappointed in her pre-judgment and hesitation to try the activities and businesses Waterville provides. On the front page of the paper for which Angela writes, Waterville’s mayor is asking for support to bring the town back to life, yet Angela has reported reluctance to even explore Waterville assets such as the ski hill, grocery store, and restaurant options.

To call herself a “local” and withhold her support, financial and otherwise, of Waterville’s various businesses seems wrong to me. I know Wal-Mart’s prices are undeniably good, but the town relies on convenient options. Additionally, Waterville Family Foods offers the “mom and pop” touches you will not find at Costco: custom cuts of meat, special-order items upon request, and bulk orders with delivery for local events.

True, I am biased seeing as the proprietors actually are my mom and pop and yes, you can certainly find me in the aisles of Safeway and Target, but I hope Angela will continue to try local businesses before going elsewhere.

Waterville has luxuries other small towns in the area do not. I was not a skier, but I loved the short walk out to the hill to support the Lions Club and savor their fantastic burgers. My cousins and I have enjoyed playing board games over homemade maple bars at the Blue Rooster and the opportunity to get a drive-up latte at Highway 2 Brew. The two-headed calf and glowing rocks in the Waterville Museum are worth the price of admission. It was a joy to bring my son home to be baptized in my welcoming childhood church for which Waterville is lucky to have many choices.

On my most recent trip “home,” I was proud to take my family to the annual Chili Feed. Although attendance at the post-chili basketball game was far lower than my days as a Shocker, I was glad to support the ASB with my money and cheers. It was so fun to see the return of youth hoops at halftime! Kudos to all the parents who have brought tackle football and Little League to the future Shockers.

Hearing of the possible closing of the pool saddens me greatly. As one of the only activities for children on summer break from school, it was a fixture of my childhood and a place of employment for me as I grew older. Offering a swim team and free swimming lessons funded by the Lions Club, Waterville is truly lucky. Now with a child of my own, one of the highlights of his young life has been the NCW Fair.

Again, it is unfortunate to see the entries dwindle and volunteers run dry.

Devoted parents, community members, and city officials are what make Waterville exceptional. I am proud to have small-town roots and thankful for the many volunteers and boosters who give their time, money, and energy. Even my 97-year-old grandmother recently participated in reading with elementary children.

I encourage Angela to not only give Waterville’s businesses and civic activities a chance, but to become involved in their continuance. It is not only a great way to make friendships and develop community ties, but in my opinion, it is the duty of all “locals.”

Kimberly Daling Cochran

Phoenix, Ariz.