Feb. 3 — To the Editor:

Last month nearly 100 residents of the Seacoast area helped complete the NH Rebellion’s Granny D Walk to end systemic corruption in elections. After marching through the ice and snow for 50 miles down Route 4 from Portsmouth to Concord, they arrived at the State House on Jan. 21 for a day of festivities, joining hundreds of other walkers who had traversed the state from Keene, Nashua, and Dixville Notch.

I had the distinct privilege of being part of our local walk from Portsmouth to Concord. This movement is about connecting with our local communities and empowering each other, and I was humbled by the participation of so many dedicated individuals and community-minded local businesses. Along the four-day walk, very many local organizations and businesses participated, either by assisting the walkers or cheering us on from the sidelines.

Many heartfelt thanks go out to all those organizations that opened their doors to the walkers as we passed by. Overnight housing for us was graciously provided by the Community Church of Durham, Epsom Public Library, and Northwood Congregational Church — and we were kept well-fed by South Church of Portsmouth, Newmarket Community Church, Bow Lake Baptist Church, and Northwood Advent Church. And amazingly, all of the students of the alternative school The Penn Program in Newmarket not only walked the whole way, but volunteered in many other roles. Other local business partners along Route 4 between Portsmouth and Concord include Susty’s Restaurant, Mary’s Dogs Rescue, Country Hills Gifts, Cole Gardens, Emery Farm, Camping World, JW Precision Co Inc, Purdy Funeral Home, and Happy Homes for Dogs.

We walked to give a voice to everyday people in our communities — so, without the cooperation of the small businesses and organizations in our communities, the walk would not only have been impossible, but meaningless. Thank you to all of you, for caring about your community, and standing with us!

Ellen Read

Newmarket