A Lebanon conflict

I was just wondering: Is it a conflict of interest to run for mayor at the same time you’re suing the city (Mel Harrington vs. the city of Lebanon)?

Glen Ashworth, Lebanon

Something positive? Here!

We are a curious society. Although much time is spent trying to get the most fun out of life, we routinely focus on its negative aspects. So here is a bit of positive news.

Last weekend our new digital camera was tragically, and somewhat irresponsibly, left unattended at the Northwest Art & Air Festival. Yes, it did disappear. My husband put an ad in the paper’s lost and found section. I really didn’t expect much to come from his efforts, I just assumed the camera was gone. Then Tuesday morning came — and surprise!

The first call came early. A man named Brian wanted to inform me of the “found ad” whose information seemed to match our “lost ad.” He even had the number handy of the person holding the camera. That was kind, I thought, helping a total stranger like that.

I called the number and after some questions for verification the lady determined I was indeed the owner of the lost camera. This young woman, Jenn, had herself lost two cameras (taken from her car) and said she understood how I felt. Her kindness and consideration now had touched a total stranger.

Around noon I got another call. Michelle too wanted me to know about the “found camera” ad. I told her we had indeed retrieved our camera and thanked her for also encouraging me with kindness. Yet that evening an older man called with exactly the same desire, to share with us the newspaper ad information. He too was glad to hear we had recovered our camera.

Now I could stop right here because you all know the point of my pleasant surprise was people who went out of their way for me, a total stranger. But I want to point out one thing. We see encouraging news televised only occasionally; but perhaps we see it only occasionally because corporate broadcasting mentality assumes acts of kindness have no real impact on our daily existence. Is that true?

Are the details of calamity and suffering more beneficial than the rewards of a kindness offered, or received?

So, I offer my biggest and most precious thank-yous to Brian, Jenn, Michelle and a nice older man who each took time out of their busy days to help me and even share my joy! Isn’t that what we’re here for anyway?

Andi Hines, Albany