Scholarships for deserving students

The trustees of the Concord Carlisle Scholarship Fund are cognizant that few if any, of us are immune to the financial woes of the past three years. That is why the nonprofit organization that has been assisting students for 44 consecutive years has carefully worded its latest appeal letter to acknowledge the challenging times many past donors may be facing.

"With lost jobs and continuing uncertainty in the economy, it is not surprising that we have seen both a rise in the financial need in our two towns and in increase in the number of unfilfilled pledges as well asmore contributors who are unable to give at their previous levels," states the letter signed by chairperson Lucy V. Miller.

She continues that the Concord Carlisle Scholarship Fund, a chapter of Dollars of Scholars, needs to raise $25,000 by Dec. 31. Yes, that is a lot of money and the request comes at a time when personal holiday expenses compete with other worthy charities seeking the same limited funds.

If you are able, you may place a donation online at www.ccscholarshipfund.org/main/how_to_donate/ You may also have a conversation with past president Paul Ressler at 978-369-0869 or Ms. Miller at 978-371-9632.

Looking for your ride?

A Giant brand 18-speed women's bicycle has been secured to the bike rack at the Beede Center for months, and no one seems to know why.

Members and staffers alike first began to notice the bicycle in August. Many of us calculated to have been valued at $600 to $800 at the time of purchase, which we don't believe was too much before then. The bike remained in the same spot, apparently untouched except by the elements, yesterday and is likely perched there today. A good cable lock keeps it in place. The bike shows a little weather-related wear and tear. Rust is accumulating around the gear shafts and chain, and the seat is fading and losing is cushioning.

Take a look at these photos and see if this bicycle may be anything you are missing. Better yet, come over and see for yourself. "It's hard to understand" why it hasnt' moved, said Rob Fleming, who rides the Beede Swim and Fitness Center many times a week on his own bike. "It's an expensive bike."

If you have something you would like to share with your fellow Concordians, contact me and I will be sure to let them know, mcb23@comcast.net