Amherst Citizen
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 1
V O L U M E 2 6 – N U M B E R 7
MARCH 2018
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PRSRT. STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 10 Amherst, NH ECR WSS
www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
AM H E R S T , N E W HAM P S H I R E ’S C O M M U N I TY N E W S PAP E R
Tax Calculation
Spirit Week at Souhegan High School
Town of Amherst, Amherst School District and Souhegan Cooperative District Tax Calculation on typical $352,000 home
Town of Amherst, Amherst School District and Souhegan Cooperative District
Town of Amherst
FY19 Tax Impacts Gross amount Tax impact A22 Operating Budget $13,894,881 $0.09 A26 Police Station Renovation CRF $200,000 $0.11 A27 Bridge Repair/Replacement CRF $115,000 $0.07 A28 Assessing CRF $25,000 $0.02 A29 Communications CRF $25,000 $0.02 A30 Fire Vehicle Repair/Replacement CRF $257,000 $0.15 TAX COMPARISON FY18 Budget & Warrants $13,872,384 FY19 Budget & Warrants $14,516,881 Increase $644,497 $0.46 Town budget and warrants $0.46 increase over FY18 Tax increase on $352,000 home $162.00
t s e F g n a F
Amherst School District FY19 Tax Impact Gross amount Tax impact A12 Operating Budget $26,291,602 $0.31 A13 ASSA Collective Bargaining Agreement $49,535 $0.03 A15 AEA Collective Bargaining Agreement $405,338 $0.24 A17 Clark School Septic System $550,000 $0.32 A18 AMS Water Plumbing System $310,000 $0.18 A19 Capital Reserve Fund $50,000 $0.03 ASD Budget and Warrants $27,656, 475 Tax Impact $1.11 Increase on $352,000 home $390.72
Souhegan High School 2018
Souhegan Cooperative School District FY 19 Tax impact Gross amount Tax impact A2 Operating Budget $17,795,801 $0.26 A3 Professional & Support Staff Contract $225,671 $0.06 A4 Souhegan 2.0 Architectural and Engineering Fees $150,000 $0.07 SCSD Budget & Warrant Articles $18,171,472 $0.39 Increase on $352,000 $137.28 For Mont Vernon, the tax impact is estimated to be an increase of $0.14 per thousand.
Members of SHS Freshmen Class of 2022 in their glorious green: (L to R): Juliette Rafuse, Emily Drake, Molly Graybill, Elliot Enriquez, Delaney Facques, Abby Hawkes, Annie LeBlanc, and Garrett Robinson. More photos on page 9.
JEFF HALL PHOTO
Town, ASD and SCSD
Combined Tax Increase: $1.96 Increase on $352,000 home: $689.92 INFORMATION FOUND IN THE TOWN AND SCHOOLS REPORTS
Celebrate the 15th Aniversary with AMS Theater Club
Amherst Town Library
Tuesday, March 13, 2018 6:00AM-8:00PM Souhegan High School, 412 Boston Post Road, Amherst, NH Sample Ballots – pages 12, 13 Tax Impact Calculations – page 1 Letters – pages 2, 3, 12, 13, 14, 16
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Letters............. 2, 3, 12, 13, 14, 16 Town News............................ 4 Library.................................. 5, 6, 8 Arts & Entertainment............. 7 Schools................................. 9 SportsShorts......................... 11 Church Services.................... 15 Mont Vernon......................... 16 Next Issue: April 2018
Deborah Sampson, presenter
More than 100 Amherst Middle School students are participating in this year’s production of Willy Wonka, Jr.
The Amherst Middle School Theater Club is celebrating it’s 15th show anniversary with Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr! Join the 5 lucky golden ticket winners as they are allowed to tour the secretive Wonka Factory. Willy Wonka himself shows them the mysteries and wonders of the Chocolate Room, Inventing Room, Fizzy Lift Room, Coco-Vision Room, and the Nut Sorting Room.
Amherst Middle School will be performing Roald Dalh’s Willy Wonka Jr. at 7pm on March 15, 16, 17 and at 2pm on March 17 and 18. All tickets are $7 for general seating. Tickets are on sale at the following locations; Moultons, Mother and Child, Black Forrest Cafe, and Toadstool (Checks only), AMS Office (Cash or Check), and at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/3221434 (credit card only).
The students can’t wait to see you in March at the show as they sing and dance their way through the mysterious and magical factory. Almost 100 students are participating in this year’s production both on stage and off. Come see all their hard work and support the AMS program. If you have questions please email us at theaterclubams@gmail.com.
A Revolution of Her Own! — A Living History Presentation AMHERST – The Amherst Town Library is celebrating Women’s History Month with Judith Kalaora’s performance in “A Revolution of Her Own! Deborah Sampson—A Living History Presentation,” on Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Reading Room.
Deborah Samson [Sampson], was the first woman to enlist, to fight, and to be honorably discharged from the American Military. Experience Deborah’s arduous upbringing, one and a half years of active combat, Continued on page 5 u
Amherst to Honor Vietnam Veterans with Moving Wall AMHERST – When you start making plans for your summer vacation, make sure to include the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall which will be coming to Amherst July 19-23. It will be a memorable and solemn occasion. A Salute to the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and the 58,360 who gave their lives for their country. The Moving Wall is 127 feet in length and 10.2 feet
in height, a half-size replica of the Washington, DC Vietnam Veterans Memorial. If you haven’t had a chance to view the Wall in our nation’s capital this is your chance to honor friends, family members and neighbors who served during the Vietnam War. Marie Grella has spent two and a half years as facilitator for the event. With support from the Milford Rotary Club Foundation in the form
of a $5,000 check, the arrival of the Wall has been formalized. There will be additional fund raising in the next few months to keep the Wall moving and to fund a museum for all the artifacts left at the wall. Marie is hoping to raise another $5 to $10,000. All sponsors and donors will be acknowledged. Continued on page 3 u
2 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Letters & Opinion Yes, But There is a Cure.
A New Way
To the editor:
To the editor:
Luke Manning’s letter makes sense - but he did not add that there is a cure for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: hyperbaric treatment. Joe Namath had a bad case of CTE after having played quarterback for the NY Jets for more than 10 years in the sixties, but his brain healed to 99% by taking several hyperbaric treatments at a FL hospital - one can google it. Martin Michaelis Amherst
Town Unassigned Balance at $5.69 Million Vote John D’Angelo for Board of Selectmen “I believe that these tax dollars already collected should be used for the benefit of the residents and taxpayers today, and not accumulated in a fund with no plans to use them for the public benefit.” John D’Angelo
To the editor:
I’m John D’Angelo and I’m running for the Board of Selectman in Amherst this month. Why vote for me instead of one of the other candidates? While I think the past few Boards have generally done a good job, I offer two reasons for a change. First, the Boards have not addressed the issue of properly funding our road maintenance and repair budget. Second, I believe the current Board policy concerning the management of the Town’s Unassigned Balance is unfair to the taxpayers, and is increasing our taxes by funding Warrant Articles with new tax dollars instead of using the Unassigned Balance. On the subject of the road budget, we inherited the problem from the selectmen of 15-20 years ago. Those Boards cut the road budget to the bone and allowed our roads to deteriorate badly. The 2010 passage of the $15 million road bond reflected the general awareness that things had gotten pretty bad. However, the road bond has only addressed about 1/3 of the Amherst roads in poor condition. DPW estimates there are another 26 miles of ‘poor’ roads, which will require about $26 million to make good. What is the plan to deal with that? There isn’t one. Where will the funds come from? Ideas have been floated, but we don’t know. The current road budget is below what DPW estimates is needed just to keep Amherst’s ‘good’ and ‘fair’ condition roads in their current condition, never mind fixing the ‘poor’ condition roads. I don’t believe “kicking the can down the road” with this is the right thing to do. The second issue I have with the Board is the policy (adopted two years ago) on managing the Town’s Unassigned Balance. The Unassigned Balance is basically all of the dollars raised for the Town that didn’t get spent. The two biggest contributors to it are 1) Town budget dollars that are raised through taxation, but which are not spent, and 2) revenue received by the Town in excess of what was forecasted and budgeted. The New Hampshire Department of Revenue (DOR) recommends that towns keep an Unassigned Balance equal to between 8% and 17% of the combined cost of running the schools, county, and town, which is referred to as the ‘General Fund’. I believe that keeping the DOR recommended minimum balance is sufficient. Due to the recent policy change, the Unassigned Balance sits today at about $5.69 million, or 11.54% of the 2017 General Fund. That is almost $1.75 million more than the DOR recommended minimum. I believe that these tax dollars already collected should be used for the benefit of the residents and taxpayers today, and not accumulated in a fund with no plans to use them for the public benefit. For example, we could pull a million dollars out of the Unassigned Balance and put it in the Bridge Repair and Replacement Capital Reserve Fund, and completely fund the DPW’s 7 year bridge repair and replacement program. No more $100,000+ Warrant Articles for bridges; no more bonds for bridge work. Or, we could put $1.2 million into a Capital Reserve fund to replace the Fire Department’s ladder truck in 2034. That should reduce the annual Fire Rescue CRF contribution request by $100,000 each year for at least the next 12 years. We need to take care of our infrastructure. People want a realistic plan and budget for maintaining roads, while gradually bringing sub-standard roads into better condition. People also want their taxes to be as low as possible, and spending tax dollars already collected on necessary improvements before asking for more tax dollars seems like the right thing to do. If you agree with me on these issues, then please vote for me on March 13th. John D’Angelo Amherst
I am pleased to announce my candidacy for re-election to the Souhegan School Board. My wife and I have lived in Amherst since 1980, and we raised two sons – both of whom went to Souhegan High School. My involvement with Souhegan began before the school opened its doors in 1992. I served on several school founding committees, contributing hours in designing co-curricular activities, curricula, and programs. My record of innovative accomplishments over the past three years as a board member speaks for itself: 1. I initiated the One-to-One laptop program providing free laptops for all students at no additional cost to the budget. This program laid dormant because of funding concerns. The money was reallocated from the existing budget and is sustainable. 2. I supported and managed the Turf Field project that raised $882K of private funds, 3. I supported and advanced STEM programs including computer science and coding, 4. I initiated a project to collaborate with a neighboring school to provide the broadest range of Advanced Placement and other courses to lower costs, and 5. I sought and found state funds to support security enhancements at Souhegan HS.
The Souhegan School Board has a goal of making Souhegan a destination school. I would like to state what this means to me as a candidate for the Souhegan School Board. This means reversing the trend of declining enrollment. Declining enrollment and maintaining currently high costs are not sustainable. A destination school attracts new families and increases demand for housing. In turn, prices rise as demand increases. It benefits students by increasing the reputation of the school and enhances the credibility of the school in the eyes of college admissions. While the statewide enrollment trends are downward, there are schools whose enrollments are growing. Three schools whose demographics are comparable to Amherst/Mont Vernon are: Hollis-Brookline, Bedford, and Windham. Over the last 10 years, Hollis-Brookline has stabilized its enrollment. Since their inception, Bedford and Windham are growing by over 34 and 39 students, respectively, per year. Souhegan has gone from 1,046 in 2006 to 792 in 2018. SAU #39’s official forecast is a decline of 48 students in the next fiscal year. “A New Way” is to think and act to reverse this trend. This will take time, but having a clear direction and plan will enable our communities to make progress. Our towns support our schools. At Souhegan, we raised private funds for a Turf Field (HB is trying to raise the money via a warrant article); we believe so strongly in computers as an integral part of education that we publicly fund them (Bedford requires parents to pay for laptops); and our Program of Studies is extensive but needs to be simplified. Souhegan has a rich tradition of innovative educational ideas. There is a strong sense of a holistic education for all students. There are more strengths too numerous to enumerate here. A New Way to look at declining enrollment is not to debate whether it is going up or down, but to do what is necessary to reverse this trend and make Souhegan a destination school. Candidate for the Souhegan School Board, Respectfully, David Chen Amherst
Support for Kevin Shea To the editor:
I would like to acknowledge publicly, Kevin Shea’s fast response to a necessary certification for all teachers in the Amherst School District. Unfortunately, it is not required in NH, but is an essential tool for educators. Kevin was already working on making First Aid, CPR, & AED training available to the public, when he learned that the Amherst School Teachers are not all certified. With a simple change of focus following a PTA meeting, he was able to set the process in motion to get our school teachers trained. I’m pleased to learn that he has shown a lot of forward progress in a very short amount of time. He has a full count of those that need the certification, and is currently working to secure the funding for text books and certification cards. He has made noteworthy progress, and is working with at least two non-profit groups who have shown interest in funding the costs. Current board members are trying to ride the wave the Mr. Shea started, but have not been able to make as much progress in several months, as Kevin has made in weeks. If it wasn’t for the cost of the books and cards, there already would be a class scheduled and on the calendar. We need a person like Kevin, who can get things done, on this board. Join me, in casting your vote for Kevin.
More Letters – pages 12, 13, 14
Lynn Briggs Amherst
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NEXT ISSUE: APRIL 2018 Deadline: 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 27
Panasiti For Selectman To the editor:
I once again announce my candidacy for Amherst Selectman. I have served as one of your selectman for the past three exciting years and would like the chance to serve for another three years. I am a 21 year resident of Amherst, I have two grown children who graduated from Souhegan High School and my wife Nancy, works as your school nurse at both Clark and Wilkins Elementary School. I sit on several town committee and boards and currently serve as your State Representative in Concord. Amherst continues to be a wonderful place to live and raise a family. We, as your Select Board have worked diligently to accomplish many tasks that will continue to improve your quality of life and provide you the best of services you should receive for your tax dollars. Here are several accomplishments over the past three years: 1. Amherst embarked on an ambitious plan of Strategic Governance with emphasis on cost effective long-range planning, operations and accountability across all town departments, Fire Rescue, Police, DPW, Recreation Community Development, Library, and town Administration.This enable the Selectman to identify strategic initiatives that deserve funding considerations. 2. We directed the implementation a financial software program that allows department heads to forecast with a good degree of certainty their financial situation 3. We have increased our end of year unassigned fund balance to meet both New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administrative and the Government Finance Officers Association Guidelines. We continue to be one of New Hampshire’s most financially stable communities. 4. We have successfully merged EMS and Fire operations under one roof Amherst Fire / Rescue department. 5. We have improved and reconstructed over 14 miles of Amherst roads. 6. We have developed several recreational areas, Joshua Park, Stearns Davis Community Gardens, Birch Park, Disc Golf and the Pump Track, 7. We have initiated a sewer feasibility study and an economic development plan aimed at the industrial area off 101a. that could improve our business tax base. These are a few past and on-going projects your Board of Selectman are working to accomplish. There are many new and exciting opportunities ahead which require the Selectman’s utmost attention. I support an open and transparent town government and the chance to continue the work to improve and develop Amherst as a destination to live and raise a family. Your support and vote on March 13th would certainly be appreciated. Thank you. Reed A. Panasiti Amherst
Re-Elect Mike Akillian as Amherst Selectman To the editor:
I’m running for re-election as an Amherst Selectman. Here’s why, and why I’d like your vote on March 13th. My wife, Carol, and I have lived in Amherst since 2009. In that time, I’ve served as selectman – first appointed by the Board of Selectmen to fill a vacancy in 2013, then elected to the Board in 2014. In 2017, when Nate Jensen vacated his position as selectman, I was unanimously appointed by the selectmen to fill his slot. I’m running now for a full three-year term. I’ve also served on the town’s Ways & Means Committee, the Capital Improvements Planning Committee, the Superintendent of School’s planning team, and, most recently, I’ve been invited by the new SAU Strategic Planning 2.0 team to offer a selectmen’s perspective on their evolving model and plans. I have a B.A. from Northeastern, a master’s from BU, attended the Tuck School Executive Program at Dartmouth, and have over 35 years experience in applying strategic governance, management, and communications to help organizations prosper. I’ve served on the management teams of firms specializing in decision support and analytic software, electronic publishing, and strategic communications, and have consulted with corporations, non-profits, schools, and government agencies at all levels. Some clients include: the Harvard Business School, GE, Mellon Bank, Pillsbury, Perdue Farms, Raytheon, United Asset Management, Boston College, UCLA, Joslin Diabetes Center, and the U.S. Department of Commerce. I have appeared on WBUR’s Morning Edition and WGBH’s Greater Boston discussing aspects of leadership and governance. You can see more of my background and platform at www.akillian.us. A decade ago, the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges adopted my refinements to traditional strategic planning as best practices for its 1,900 member organizations and 40,000 individual members. And, in 2013, in my first stint as selectman, I adapted strategic governance for Amherst town government and have led the town’s adoption of it. The results have been good: • All town goals are now stated in terms of desired outcomes for Amherst residents. • Since 2014, voters have passed all town budgets and almost all key warrants by a 2:1 or 3:1 margin ¬– reflecting their support for a clear strategy and sensible related investments. • Citizens know where things stand and seem pleased with the performance of town government. • Of the 31 municipalities in Hillsborough County, Amherst continues to have the 8th lowest tax rate while providing strong town services. This represents an excellent value for taxpayers. • Other town committees, commissions, and boards are also embracing strategic governance and are attracting excellent talent from across our community. The NH Municipal Association featured Amherst’s innovative approach to strategic governance in its fall 2017 edition of its flagship publication, Town and City, and had us showcase our approach at their annual conference last November. I have a very positive working relationship with the current selectmen, town administrator, department heads, ¬and the press. I’d like to continue to apply strategic governance to: • Use taxpayer dollars cautiously and wisely, while providing excellent town services, • Maintain a high quality of life for Amherst residents, and • Ensure that Amherst is attractive to, and affordable for, people of all ages. For that, I’ll need your vote in March. I hope you find my platform and performance worthy of that vote. www.akillian.us Mike Akillian Amherst www.akillian.us
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www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 3
More Letters Shea for Amherst School Board: To the editor:
I’m seeking a seat on the Amherst School Board. I am an Amherst husband, father, and homeowner. I am proud to set examples for my children with volunteerism, by volunteering hundreds of hours annually to many Amherst organizations. Recent examples include building Joshua’s Park, coaching Youth Football, volunteering within the schools, serving on the ZBA and earning the 2017 Top Responder Recognition with our volunteer fire department. My children are at the start of their journey through the school system. I am very concerned about making sure that they receive the best in education, preparation, and safety. I am a person who gets things done. I bring a non-biased, level headed, proactive perspective. I am actively involved in the schools, observing first hand the day to day operations and how policy comes to life with teachers and students. I am familiar with the process of soliciting feedback from all stakeholders and subject matter experts before moving forward with a decision. I understand the neutrality needed to serve on boards and committees. While this certainly doesn’t mean that I cannot have an opinion of my own, it does mean that I have the ability to equally weigh the opinions and facts that are presented. I have a proven record of doing so. I am committed to making sure our schools and our children are as safe as possible. A critical part of the school’s ability to operate effectively is ensuring they are operating safely. Teachers and students should be able to focus on curriculum and learning. I believe that a quality public school provides students with an environment and a curriculum conducive to academic learning and social development. A quality public school adequately prepares students for the next phase of life. The curriculum needs to ensure we are keeping students engaged in an increasingly technical world. Programs need to be in place for advanced students to continue to be challenged and excel, with continued focus on those that need additional tools and support to help all students to achieve their goals. I respectfully ask you to elect me to the Amherst School Board where I can positively influence the decisions and dollars that will continue to provide quality education, preparation, and safety for our children. With your help, I can continue to bring results that matter. I’m asking for your support and your vote on March 13th. Kevin Shea Amherst
Casey Loose - Candidate For Amherst School District Board To the editor:
After serving nearly 10 years in the United States Air Force as an officer and aviator, my family and I decided to finally put down roots in Amherst, NH in 2005. A beautiful New England town, yes, but it was the quality and reputation of the school system that sealed the deal for us. More recently, my wife and I celebrated a significant milestone as parents when our daughter, who started kindergarten at Wilkins School in 2005, graduated from Souhegan High School in May 2017. Only now, as I reminisce over the past 13 years, do I fully appreciate how extraordinary and unique our school system really is. And now, despite our empty nest, I feel compelled, as a resident of the town of Amherst, to elevate my level of service and make my own contribution. Consequently, in order to further preserve and enhance the level of excellence and distinction, values we’ve enjoyed as parents and residents over many years, I’ve enthusiastically decided to run for a seat on the board of the Amherst School District (ASD). Experience matters! As an active member of the ASD Ways & Means Committee for the last two years I’ve direct experience reviewing, analyzing and challenging elements of the budget, interacting with school and district representatives regarding budget questions and issues and otherwise actively participating in the budget process from beginning to end. This experience is particularly important as ASD represents the largest portion of the overall town budget. As I stated during Candidates Night, although I wouldn’t go so far as to mandate Ways & Means experience as a hard requirement, I clearly recognize the great value and efficiency gained, as a collective body, when the board has members who are fluent in the budget process. Experience matters! As the parent of a recent Souhegan grad who started Kindergarten at Wilkins almost 13 years ago, I’ve a unique and relevant perspective, one which enables me to more clearly appreciate and understand student progression and key transition points as students advance through the system. This comprehensive view is one that will serve the students well and is currently lacking on the board today. My qualifications extend beyond parent, ASD Ways & Means Committee volunteer and military officer. I also hold a Program Management Professional (PMP) certification and Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). Given my diverse skill set and experience I stand committed, as a new member of the board, to not only identify, address and solve complex issues, but to strongly advocate for and promote continuous improvement along the way. Finally, in light of recent events in Florida and other school communities around the country in recent months, it’s clear the trend of violence in our schools remains relevant and the cause of continued concern for our students, teachers, support staff and administrators. As board and community members we must all insist the district, in close cooperation with local law enforcement, continues to analyze, update and improve existing safety measures and procedures, combined with quality social and emotional learning programs, in order to maintain a safe and nurturing environment for everyone. Whatever the agenda or issue of the day, I can assure you I’ll insist all board matters clearly demonstrate student benefit above all else while, at the same time, maintaining equity for current taxpayers and future residents alike. Casey Loose Amherst
Article 24 & 25 Provides Funding for Conservation of Open Space To the editor:
The Amherst Conservation Commission (ACC) appreciates the support of the Board of Selectmen and the Ways & Means Committee in the development of Warrant Articles 24 and 25 which are on the ballot for the 2018 Town elections. These warrant articles will permit the ACC to use funds raised through the existing Land Use Change Tax (LUCT) to conserve and manage valuable Town natural resources (forests, grasslands and wetlands). It’s important to note that the LUCT funds that are the subject of these two warrant articles are already being collected from developers when land in “current use� (forest and farm lands) is converted to residential and commercial use. An affirmative vote on Article 24 and 25 will assure that these funds go toward the conservation of remaining open space in Amherst. Thank you for your support on March 13th. Rob Clemens, Chair Amherst Conservation Commission
My Position on Safety and Security Bob Baechel, 2018 Fire & Ice Chili at Souhegan High School The safety of our students, including those at Souhegan, has become a Cook-Off Winner primary concern for residents, and thus an issue in the current Souhegan School Board campaign. It goes without saying that safety and security at SHS is paramount. Feeling secure is a necessary prerequisite for learning and growth I found the SRO presentation from 2016 compelling in several respects, and agree that more needs to be done in this area. In particular, the notion of a multi-pronged approach (physical security, surveillance, training, etc.) makes sense to me. When I was on the SHS Advisory Finance Committee, we evaluated the security funding proposed for the 2019 budget it was found lacking in several critical respects: • The Board could not articulate a specific plan for the spending of these funds. They themselves used the term “shot in the darkâ€? to describe their budgeting approach • I was deeply concerned that these funds were intended to satisfy the cameras prong of the SRO-proposed strategy, but the lack of an explicit plan risked leaving the other prongs unaddressed • Even the rationale for cameras was being misrepresented by advocates to include safety improvements that they could in no way satisfy (for example, stopping a determined shooter, when no live surveillance funding was being requested) • My fear was that this approach not only left critical safety issues unaddressed, but exposed the Board and the school to the future disappointment of the taxpayers at best, and a dangerous situation at worst
In part because of the issues raised by the AFC, the Board did address our questions by determining to supplement the efforts which were already underway within Community Council, with an outside expert perspective, to inform an overall strategy and planning deliverable. I intend to evaluate the reports currently being prepared by these groups, especially against the multi-prong approach laid out in the SRO presentation and advocated by DHS. I expect the recommendations will include, but will not be limited to, investment in surveillance (cameras). If those recommendations appear sensible (and I expect they will) I will work as hard as I can to build the necessary consensus on the Board for approval of the proposed plan and any funds necessary for its execution. As a final thought let me share my perspective on a lesson from the experience of the time from the SRO presentation to present. Many are frustrated at the apparent lack of progress by the Board since then. I think that is a fair criticism. I think advocates for action missed a critical opportunity following that presentation to do the tedious work of formulating a real plan, and building the consensus (at least in terms of 4 Board votes) necessary to pursue it. As a member of the Souhegan School Board I promise to work as hard on securing Board commitment for action, as I do on formulating a good idea. A great idea with 2 votes on the Board is a waste of time. Martin Goulet, Amherst Candidate for Souhegan High District School Board
NOW HIRING
This year’s Fire & Ice chili winner’s secret is a 1989 postcard recipe his wife found while on vacation in Texas. The recipe, according to Amherst Lion Bob Baechle, only needed one change: black beans replaced kidney beans. “Black beans make more sense for chili,� he said, “Also, it wasn’t spicy so I believe I received a lot of interest from the younger voters.� Nearly 90 votes were cast in the third annual Amherst Lions Club chili cook-off, February 2. Baechle received a silver bowl engraved with his name and bragging rights until February 2019. About 200 ticket holders tested 11 chili entrants ranging from Bud Comstock’s all-meat recipe to Bruce Manchester’s chicken quesadilla chili. The meal was topped off with ice cream sundaes with a choice of ten toppings. In addition, Amherst Middle School Principal Porter Dodge emceed the event that included Souhegan High School’s
u
Amherst to Honor Vietnam Vets
“We need community support. I want people in the Souhegan Valley to know this is your opportunity to be involved in the Moving Wall experience,� said Marie. There will be a motorcycle procession as the Wall travels to Amherst. “I encourage people along the way to fly their flags,� she added. The exact route of the procession will be posted as the date draws closer. It will be traveling down Route 122 to Boston Post Road as it travels to its destination of Souhegan High School. If you need a new flag contact Marie. Place your order for a made
MOM'S HOURS
AMHERST, MILFORD, & MONT VERNON
SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS
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NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY-FREE TRAINING WAGES RANGE FROM $15.40 TO $18.80 PER HOUR! Friday, June 15th, 2018 Amherst Town Green: 11 Church Street, Amherst NH $25.00 pre-registration $30.00 day of registration 5k Participants get finisher prize! This is a beautiful course that runs through historical country neighborhoods. Professional timing by Millennium Running. Visit https://www.amherstflagday5k.com/ for more details and to register online.
All proceeds sponsor the Moving Wall, A Vietnam War Memorial; coming to Amherst NH July 20th. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------By signing this race form, I understand that running is a hazardous activity and I should not enter unless I am medically able or properly trained to do so. I hereby for myself, heirs, executors and administrator waive and release any and all rights and claims for damages that I may have against the sponsors, coordinating groups and any individuals associated with the Milford Rotary Club, the representatives, successors and assigns, and will hold them harmless for any and all injuries suffered in connection with this event.
Please fill out this form for each participant
Robotics Team demonstrations, the AMS School Band conducted by Andrew Swift and AMS players performing skits from their upcoming musical, Willy Wonka, Jr. Krickey The Clown offered balloon art to the children attending the family event. And Amherst Junior Women’s Club donated homemade baked goods and desserts. “Fire & Ice was successful because of the of many local organizations and their commitment to offering a fun and entertaining evening for the community,� said Lion Danielle Pray, lead coordinator. She estimates the event netted about $800 for local charities. Fire & Ice also announced the club’s 2018 sponsors: Amherst Orthodontics; McGuigan Financial; Cardoza Flooring; The Adams Home Team; Amherst Label; Clark & Leighton P.C.; Optometrists Dr. Joseph Raczek and Dr. Sarah Radny, Optometrists; and Granite State Credit Union. from page 1
in America 3’x5’ flag by emailing info@MovingWallNH.org or by contacting Marie Grella . The cost is $25 per flag and all proceeds go to The Moving Wall event in July. Drop off your tattered and worn flags on Marie’s porch for proper handling. On Tuesday, March 13, Election Day, look for the table at the polls with all the flags and make a contribution. A 5K Road Race to benefit The Moving Wall will be held on Friday, June 15 at 6:30 p.m. Lace up your running or walking shoes for a fun and patriotic Flag Day 5K on Friday June 15 at 6:30 pm. The 3.1 mile course will take you through Amherst with the start and finish lines at 11 Church St by the Town Common. The Flag Day 5K benefits the presentation of The Moving Wall at Souhegan High School. The race will be timed by Millennium Running. For more information about the Flag Day 5K: www.amherstflagday5k.com/ Interested in supporting The Moving Wall event by purchasing some new USA colors to fly at your house? Place your order for a Made In America 3’x5’ flag by emailing us at info@MovingWallNH.org or by directly contacting Marie Grella . The cost is $25 per flag and all proceeds go to The Moving Wall event in July. Marie and her troop of dedicated volunteers will have flags for sale on March 13th at the Amherst Town Elections and at Amherst’s July 4th Celebration on the Town Common. Volunteers will be needed to successfully honor our nation’s heroes. If you or your organization are interested in volunteering, please email us at volunteer@movingwallnh.org.
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MAIL TO: 128 Amherst Street, Amherst NH 03031 Mail this form before 6/12/2018 (After 6/12/2018 please bring to event) Checks Payable to: Milford Rotary Club Foundation Sponsorships are welcome – contact amherstflagday5k@gmail.com
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4 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Bulletin Board Caregiver Support Groups at Bridges by EPOCH at Nashua March 5 and March 19 Bridges by EPOCH at Nashua will host its monthly caregiver support groups on Monday, March 5 from 4 to 6 p.m. and Monday, March 19 from noon to 2 p.m. Join us to share your caregiving story while also hearing the stories of others facing similar experiences. You are welcome to bring your loved one to enjoy an engaging activity with our residents while you attend the support group. For more information or to RSVP, call 603-594-0581. Bridges by EPOCH at Nashua, a memory care assisted living community, is located at 575 Amherst St.
‘Dementia 360: A Compass for the Journey’ at Bridges by EPOCH at Nashua (March 12) NASHUA — Bridges by EPOCH at Nashua will host the complimentary presentation “Dementia 360: A Compass for the Journey” on Monday, March 12 at noon. Dementia affects everyone differently. During this presentation, we’ll discuss dementia-related issues from the points of a view of people living with dementia, individuals without dementia, family members and more.
Newcomers Welcomes Women in Souhegan Valley Amherst Area Newcomers are out and about, involved in so many different interest groups and activities. We have the following groups up and running and always looking for new members: Mah Jongg, Dinner and a Movie, Lunch and a movie, Out to Lunch Group, Mom, Grandma and Me Playgroup, Bunco, Book Club both a day and night group, craft night, hiking, skiing, pub night and poker. We welcome all women in the Souhegan Valley Area. For more information please go to our facebook page at Amherst Newcomers or email nhnewcomers@gmail.com.
Nashaway Chapter of the NH Audubon Society The Nashaway Chapter of NH Audubon welcomes the public to a free presentation, New Hampshire Loons, by John M. Rockwood on Wednesday, March 21, 2018, at 7pm at the Nashua Public Library. John is a professional photographer and author of the book “Adventures with Grapenut”. John will share his adventures in the daily lives of two loon families on two different lakes over a 6-month period, with close-up photos and videos of loons taking off, landing, and swimming underwater. This presentation will be held in the downstairs, wheelchair accessible, theater room. Registration is not necessary. For more information, contact Richard Maloon 424-5621 or richard.maloon@att.net. The Nashaway Chapter of NH Audubon invites the public to its next field trip on Saturday March 24, 2018 from 7am to 3:30pm, to the NH seacoast, traveling from Odiorne Point in Rye to Hampton Beach State Park. We will be scanning the ocean for wintering seabirds (loons, grebes, seaducks, alcids, and gannets). These birds feed and roost here over the winter, but in early spring they begin growing breeding plumage and displaying courtship behavior in preparation for their return to their summer breeding homes. Bring your scope if you have one and pack a lunch. Dress WARMLY. Meet in Nashua at the Exit 7 Park & Ride, on the hill behind the Fireside Inn & Suites. To register for the trip or for directions to meet the group at the destination, contact Richard Bielawski 603-429-2537 or rbielawski@mac. com.
Breathe the Best That You Can Breathe Workshop Apr.7th & 8th, The Power of Breath and Optimal Breathing Practices. Visit www.amherstyogaandreiki.com
Birth Announcement
Colin and Teresa (Korwin) O’Brien of Amherst announce the birth of their son, Conor Korwin O’Brien on January 20, 2018 at the University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, Vermont. Conor weighed 8 lbs. 11 oz. and was 20 inches long. Grandparents are Margaret O’Brien of Nashua and Kathleen and the late Roger Korwin of Granville, OH.
Amherst Garden Club Offers Annual Scholarship
AMHERST – The Amherst Garden Club is offering scholarship awards to qualified applicants this spring. Scholarship money totaling $4,000 is available to Amherst or Mont Vernon residents who will be attending an institute of higher learning to study horticulture, botany, plant science, landscape design, or environmental science as it relates to horticulture. The garden club believes that supporting the education of students who have an interest in a field closely allied in some way with horticulture can have a positive impact on the world we live in. Applications are available on the Amherst Garden Club web site, www.amherstgardenclub.org. There are two application forms available, one for high school seniors and one for high school graduates who are presently college age or older. Souhegan High School students need to return their applications to the high school student services office. All other applicants should mail their applications to Nancy Head, Scholarship Committee, Amherst Garden Club, PO Box 694, Amherst, NH 03031. The deadline for all applications is March 16, 2018.
AJWC Funds Available for Area Non-Profits AMHERST – The Amherst Junior Women’s Club invites non-profit organizations in need of charitable contributions to apply for a donation. Throughout the year, the AJWC raises money and then disburses those funds within the community. Request must follow these guidelines: • Requesting organization must be affiliated with a 501(c)(3) non-profit. • Organization does not need to have an Amherst address but must service the local community. • Request must be submitted by March 31, 2018, in writing or by e-mail.
Request must contain the following information:
• Name of organization, mailing address, e-mail address, website (if available), telephone number, contact name. • Dollar amount requested. • How would donated funds be used? • How does requesting organization currently benefit Amherst and greater community?
• How does organization’s objective correspond to the mission of the AJWC? AJWC mission is explained here: • When was organization established? Provide short history of organization. • How does organization fund itself, i.e., federal/state/local grants? • What is organization’s annual budget? Include any expected shortfalls.
The AJWC is an organization of women who volunteer their time, energy and talent to enhance the community. The club’s mission is to focus efforts on civic needs, educational advancement and the less fortunate. All requesting organizations will be notified when applications are received. Once approved, funds will be distributed no later than June 15, 2018. Only chosen recipients will be notified of disbursements. Questions e-mailed to Mindy Reilly: cip.ajwc@gmail.com. Please reference “CIP Request” in subject line. For more information, visit our website at: ajwcnh.org. Mailing address: AJWC, CIP Request, P.O. Box 513, Amherst, NH 03031.
Town News Historic Amherst
Origins of the Town of Amherst tlement did not happen quickly. In 1741, the charter of the Congregational Church and Society comThe town of Amherst, N.H. origprised merely 14 families. At that inated as a reward to Massachusetts time, the Proprietors were actively Bay Colony men who fought the Narencouraging settlement of an inn/ raganset Indians 1675-1676 – in what tavern-keeper, grist and saw mill the English colonists called King proprietor, and blacksmith, and Philip’s War or Metacom’s Rebellion planned a bridge across the river, (King Philip and Metacom being the and laid out roads. And in 1747 they English and Indian names, respecstepped up efforts to get the numtively, of a Wampanoag chief allied ber of settled families up to the 60 with the Narrangansets). The Generrequired by the grant. al Court of Massachusetts made an Souhegan West in the Province of initial grant in 1685 of land in NipNew Hampshire was chartered/ inmug (now spelled Nipmuck) Indian corporated as a town in 1760 with a territory (inland parts of Connectinew name: Amherst. At which time cut and Massachusetts and northern there were 110 taxpayers – 106 men part of Rhode Island), but no effort (essentially all of the adult males was made “by the grantees to secure because they had to pay poll tax the township granted them,” so when whether or not they owned properanother petition from soldiers of the Proprietors’ map of Souhegan West, N.H., c. 1750, from Chapel ty) and 4 women (property owners). Narraganset war was presented to the museum. Inscription: “A plann of the township of Soughegan west Massachusetts House of Representa- No. three Laid Down by Scale 160 Rods to the Inch. Bounded on the By 1767, there were about 160 famitives in 1727 (half a century after the North by New Boston, on the west by Salem Canada, on the South lies in town, with plenty of room for more – at least 100 more families, war), it was found – oops – that the by the River & on the east by Soughegan East.” according to Rev. Wilkins. Amherst Court (the elected legislative assemgained land, south of Souhegan bly) had in the meantime disposed of River, when the town of Monson Beverly, Wenham, Boxford, Bradford, Scarthe first land grant to other parties. So they looked to wilderness in what would be- borough, York, Falmouth, and Chatham drew was dismembered in 1770. Amherst lost land come New Hampshire and Maine, intending “No. 3”. The first meeting of the Proprietors in 1750 to Merrimack (a small strip not finalto create several new “plantations,” each six of Souhegan West was held in 1734 in Sa- ized until 1832); in 1794 when the SW parish miles square, to reward the soldiers. A com- lem, Mass. They decided that each “home lot” was split off as Milford; and in 1803 when the mittee found suitable land lying on the north should be 60 acres, but “what was wanting in NW parish was split off as Mont Vernon. There is one more key chapter to the story of side of the river called “Sowheagun” by the quality to be made up in quantity.” In 1735, natives and, in their calculation of the prop- they laid out 120 lots of 60 acres each, as well the “origins” of Amherst: becoming the shire er amount of acreage, the committee com- as a place whereon to erect the Public Meeting town or seat of the newly formed Hillsborough pensated for land along the river which had House & a convenient place for a Public Bury- County in 1769 when the Province was dividalready been granted by the Court to other ing Ground & another for a [militia] Training ed into five counties, which took effect in 1771 colonists in 1660 as well as for the big pond Field, and lots for minister and school. (There when the first court session was held in town (Baboosic). This tract would become the “plan- would be three more divisions of land into and the first deeds were registered by county tation called Narraganset No. 3” in 1728, sub- lots: the second in 1738, the third in 1747, and (rather than by Province). There was a potentially close call of losing this privilege in 1823 sequently called Souhegan West township. It the fourth in 1770.) At their meeting in Jan. 1734/5, the Propri- – which the town fathers forestalled by rapidincluded the soil of the present towns of Amherst (north of Souhegan River) and Mont Ver- etors “Voted that the first 60 proprietors that ly building a new courthouse (today used as non, most of Milford, and a little bit of Merri- … build and finish a Dwelling house of 18 feet Town Hall), on speculation, to hang onto the square and 7 feet studd, and clear 2 acres of shire designation and keep the county court mack. But it took several more years to get soldiers’ land fit for mowing or plowing, and actually sessions in Amherst. Subsequently there was a land grants organized. In Jan. 1731/2, the Mas- live on the spot [within] three years … shall gradual erosion of shire privilege over the desachusetts House determined that each six be entitled to draw out from the proprietors’ cades, with court sessions held in other towns, miles square would be the reward for 120 sol- treasury the sum of 6 pounds.” The town’s his- until the court sessions were finally moved out diers. Seven such Narraganset townships were torian figured out that only one of the origi- of town completely in 1869. formed, divided among 840 soldiers or their nal proprietors, a man from Salem Village Context: Dates of Political Boundaries heirs/ descendants who thus became “propri- (now Danvers) who inherited his right from New Hampshire was part of the Massachuetors” of the townships. The group of propri- an uncle, settled in Souhegan West. The first setts Bay Colony from 1641 until 1679. After etors belonging to the towns of Salem, Lynn, two settlers, who hailed from Reading, Mass., Marblehead, Gloucester, Andover, Topsfield, are said to have arrived in 1735. However, setContinued on page 11 u BY KATRINA HOLMAN
AMHERST RECREATION DEPARTMENT 4 Cross Rd, Amherst, NH 03031 603 673-6248 Peabody Mill Environmental Center 66 Brook Road 603 673-1141 www.amherstrec.org Like us on Facebook
NOW HIRING! Amherst Parks and Rec is now accepting applications for summer employment. We are seeking applicants for a Baboosic Lake Beach Coordinator, Life Guards, Camp Counselors, and Gate Guards. All interested candidates should fill out an application found on www. amherstrec.org. Please email all applications to Recreation Director, Craig Fraley at cfraley@amherstnh.gov.
NEW! Disc Golf League Night at Birch Park!
Birch Park in Amherst NH is starting a Disc Golf League! Breakin Chains will be the official sponsor and will be running league on Thursday Nights starting on May 3rd at 5pm. Play will begin at 5:30pm. This will be a 20 week series. Cost for the season will be $30.00 and will include a cool bag tag for the Amherst League. All inquiries should be directed to Bill or Norma at 603-232-2261.
Amherst Recreation Programs and Events 2018 Summer Camps with Amherst Parks and Recreation Welcome to our 2018 Camp offerings! Adventure Teen Camp (Rising Gr. 8-9, July 23-Aug 16)
tal Center this summer! Experience a summer knee deep in nature with weekly themes such as Castaway, H2-OH!, CSI, and even a camp favorite...Capture the Flag Week! Both daily and weekly options available this summer.
Outdoor Discovery Mini Camp (Ag. 4-5, June 18- July 27)
Get ready for year three of Adventure Teen Camp (ATC) for rising 8th-9th graders! Campers will have fun with friends, while enhancing their community service skills, building stronger relationships, and being a part of a rewarding camp experience. We will end the summer with a White Water Rafting Trip down the Kennebec River!
Come out and explore the outdoor world of camp this summer. Campers will read stories, go on mini hikes, play outdoor games, splash time, make arts and crafts, and more! Theme weeks include: Little Gems, Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes, Little Paws and Helpful Claws & more! Full day & half day option available.
Let’s have some fun under the sun this summer! Join our fantastic Baboosic Lake counselors for an unforgettable summer. Campers will take part in daily activities all centered around a weekly theme. Don’t forget, each week has a special field trip! Daily and weekly options available.
(Registration not available yet)
Baboosic Lake Summer Camp (Gr. 1-8, June 18-Aug 10)
Outdoor Discovery Summer Camp (Gr. 1-6, June 18-Aug 10)
Come discover the outdoor world at The Peabody Mill Environmen-
Joseph Raczek, o.D. GENERAL OPTOMETRY CONTACT LENSES • New Patients Welcome • Convenient Hours • All types of Frames & Lenses • Most Insurance Accepted www.drraczek.com
Dr. Joseph Raczek Welcomes Dr. Sarah Radny to our Practice. Looking Forward to 2018! 380 Nashua Street, Milford, NH • 673-7428 Community Based Family Eye Care Since 1986
Wild About Science Camp at MVVS (Gr. K-5, August 13-24)
Now you can join your favorite Outdoor Discovery Camp counselors, and PMEC educators for 2 more weeks of non-stop FUN! We will be offering an additional two weeks of camp at the Mont Vernon Village School.
Specialty Camps with Amherst Parks and Recreation Girls Basketball Camp, Gr. 5th9th (June 25th-29th)
Souhegan Girls Basketball Camp will focus on skill development and small group instruction that will be reinforced though scrimmaging. And most importantly be a lot of fun! Souhegan coaches and players will serve as camp counselors and the camp fees are a fundraiser for their program.
Challenger British Multisport Camp (July 23- July 27)
Motivate, Activate and Energize your child with Challenger Sports’ Multi Sports Program. Challenger’s team of British coaches will provide your boys and girls, with a memorable week of nonstop action, fun and competition- All with a British Twist!
Cheer Camp (June 18-June 21)
Are you ready to jump, cheer, dance, and stunt? Cheers, partner stunts, and technique will be worked on throughout the week. Everyday will end in a mini performance!
DIY Circus Camp (June 18June 29)
Did you ever want to try juggling, stilt walking, hula hooping, or hat tricks, but didn’t know how to start? At DIY Circus Camp, you can try all of these and more. Better yet, you’ll also make your own circus props in our circus workshop!
Young HACKS Academy- Beta Masters (July 23-July 27)
Imagine a small indie game studio that has 5 days to pitch, design and build a new video game. Following a real-world production cycle, YHA Beta Masters work in teams to develop an innovative game prototype from conception to completion.
2018 Baboosic Lake Happenings AMHERST TOWN BEACH, 25 BROADWAY, AMHERST NH 03031 Join us for a summer filled with activities that will keeping you connected with family and friends, teach you new skills and keep you cool- all at the same time! Bring the whole family for a game of volleyball on our sand court, build sandcastles, enjoy lunch on our picnic tables under the canopy of the pines, rent a kayak or paddle board, register for swimming lessons or just enjoy a warm summer day on the beach. Early Bird rate is only effective until March 31, 2018.
Join the Baboosic Lake Swim Team!!
Our team is a seasonal swim team offering coaching, technique and instruction for all ages and abilities. Swimmers do not need to have a season’s pass in order to swim on the Baboosic Lake team. The goal of our team is to provide every member an opportunity to improve Continued on page 15 u
www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 5
Town News AMHERST TOWN LIBRARY Amy Lapointe, Library Director 14 Main St., Amherst NH Phone 673-2288 Fax 672-6063 email: library@amherstlibrary.org web http://www.amherstlibrary.org Mon-Thu, 9:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Fri-Sat, 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sundays, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Children’s Programming at the Amherst Town Library March 2018
Storytimes---We will be taking a 2-wk. break from storytime programming from March 12 to March 23 for planning and preparation. (The exception is After-School Storytime. Because March is the last month that we will be offering it, we’ll hold the after-school program all month.) Thank you for your understanding! All of our traditional Storytimes are drop in--we love to see you whenever you are able to attend. Storytimes in March will be held at the following times: Family Storytimes (ages 3-6, younger sibs welcome)—Tuesdays, March 6 and 27 and Wednesdays, March 7 and 28 at 10:00am. After-School Storytime (grades k-3) ---Wednesdays, March 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 3:30pm. Little Listeners—(newborn to 3) Thursdays, March 1, 8, and 29, and Fridays, March 2, 9, and 30 at 10:30am. No registration required.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS IN MARCH
Announcing the First Annual Peeps-Show Contest!
The Amherst Town Library will be holding a competition to see who can make the most creative, unique, amazing diorama using—marshmallow peeps. All details are available on our website, www.amherstlibrary. org. (Go to the Children’s Room dropdown menu, and click on Peeps Show and Contest.) Dioramas may be brought to the library starting March 19---judging will take place on March 28. On Thursday, March 29, we’ll hold a Peeps Party, where the winners will be announced, and some fun Peep activities will be available. Don’t miss it!!!
Tasty Treats and Trivia---KIDS TRIVIA CONTEST! Wednesday, March 21 at 3:30pm For Kids in grades K– 4.
Come to the library and show off your trivia talent! We will form our teams at 3:30, and then the snacking and the questions begin! Compete for bragging rights and a small prize or two. How many questions can YOU answer correctly? Come and find out!! Please register online, and include child’s age on the ‘name’ line www.amherstlibrary.org
ONGOING PROGRAMS IN MARCH Book Clubs
day of each month at 6:30pm. On March 5, we’ll discuss Library Lil by Suzanne Williams. Families Read Together (for kids in grades 3 and 4 and their parents) meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30pm. On March 21, club members will discuss Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein. The Great Stone Face Reviewer’s Club (for 5th and 6th graders) gets together on the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 to talk about the newest fiction titles that we’ve all been reading—then Miss Sarah passes these opinions on to the Great Stone Face Committee at the state level. We’re an opinionated group that loves to read---and loves to talk about what we’re reading! The Popcorn–and–Oreo-Eating Monsters Club (for 7th and 8th graders) usually gathers on the 4th Wednesday of each month to share opinions about the newest YA fiction titles we’re reading. This month, we’ll be going together to see the new movie version of A Wrinkle in Time on Friday, March 9. If you’d like to join us, contact Miss Sarah at shydorn@amherstlibrary.org
By Bruce B. Beckley
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
We are coming into the season when intercontinental travelers are returning to our yards, fields, and forests. Birds and butterflies that wintered south of here are on the route back or may have arrived already. Since last fall, some species may have travelled more miles in eight months than many of us will travel in eight or more years. We, the stay-at-home residents, have a role in these migrations. Food and breeding spaces propel the migrants to make their trips of thousands of miles globally or meadow to meadow locally. The monarch butterfly that fluttered in your garden and fattened up on your nectar (if you can picture a fattened-up butterfly) made a 3,000-mile trip to Mexico to winter on a mountainside nearly two miles above sea level. And now its return trip has started, guided by a combination of directional aids such as the magnetic pull of the earth and the positions of the sun and stars. The Mexican government recognized the importance of the Oyamel Forest to the monarchs and established the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. At our end of the Monarch’s flyway, the Amherst Conservation Commission and the Bedford CC have joined in the management of the fields
Minecraft Club will meet on Thursday afternoons, March 8, 15, and 22 from 3:00 to 4:30pm. This is a club for kids who know how to play---instruction is not available. Bring your own computer, or use one of the library laptops. Space is limited, so please register online at www.amherstlibrary.org.
on Joppa Hill Farm to schedule mowing so as to preserve blossoming milkweed plants, a select feed and breed species for the monarchs. Another seasonal visitor to our gardens and woodland buffers is the ruby-throated hummingbird. These creatures, weighing in at ¾ of an ounce, are on their way back to their summer residency from Panama with wings beating 80 times per second to feed on a new crop of nectar and insects. They will build nests with an inside diameter only slightly larger than a quarter to raise their four young. Conservation management is a marriage of science and an almost spiritual sensitivity to Nature’s callings. Together, these form the foundation of the Conservation Commission’s efforts to understand, preserve, and protect the ecologically diverse habitats of our town for both the year-round residents and the transient travelers. Many thanks for your help and support.
Paws for Reading
Monday, March 5 and March 19 from 3:30-4:30
Does your child struggle with reading, or hesitate to read aloud? Bring him or her to the library, and let Brook help. Brook and Monica (her person) are members of Therapy Dogs International, and are trained to work as “tail-waggin’” tutors with children. They’ll listen to your child read, and increase their reading confidence and fluency. To make an appointment, please call the Children’s Room at 673-2288.
Saturday Movie Matinee
Saturday, March 24 at 2:00pm: Bring a water bottle and a pillow, and we’ll provide the popcorn and the big screen! Come and join us! For movie details, please call us at 673-2288. No registration required.
Come and Build
Friday March 16 from 3:00 – 4:30: Come to the library to build with our collection of legos, blocks, marble runs, etc. Build the “construction project” of your dreams! Ages 4 and up. No registration required. March 19- 25 This month’s craft is a “Lion and Lamb” creation--come on by anytime during the week to make your own!
Tech Tuesdays at The ATL: “Appy Hour”: Mobile Devices 101 tensively for Library Journal on technology and public service in libraries. Delivering many trainings on technology and online life to the public and for staff development, she is also the co-author of Emerging Technologies: a Primer for Librarians (2015) and is author of a forthcoming book on library services to immigrants and new Americans. She earned her MSLIS from Simmons College. Jennifer is the Training Manager of the Alma Implementation Project at the Harvard University Libraries. Following her Tech Tuesdays presentations, where registration is required, Jennifer is additionally offering a Drop-in help session for anyone having any tech related questions. The Drop-in sessions are scheduled from 3:00 to 3:30 p.m., require no registration and can be viewed on our online calendar as “The Tech Consultant is IN!” The Drop-in session is located in the Johnson Meeting Room on the
The Amherst Town Library
Building Resilience Through Mindfulness: A THREE-PART SERIES
The Amherst Town Library is pleased to offer a three-part series, “Building Resilience through Mindfulness: Practices that Grow the Brain,” on Monday April 2, 16, and 30 at 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Johnson Meeting Room. Topic focus for Part 1 is “Mindfulness”; Part 2 is “Gratitude and Taking in the Good”; and, Part 3 is “Loving-Kindness.” Come for a single topic or all three in the series. Presenter Liz Korabek-Emerson is a certified mindfulness instructor, transformational workshop leader, and creative coach. This three-part series
“CREATIVE KIDS” Children ages
8-12 will learn how to use pencil, charcoal, acrylic, watercolor, and markers during school vacation April 23-27, 9am-12pm.
lower level of the Library. Mark your calendars and signup for the rest if the series of Tech Tuesdays—all scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. from October through May. There are two remaining offerings in the series: April 17 is “Google Searching Tips and Discover a Database”; and, May 15 is “Mobile Photography: Tips, Tricks, & Storage.” Library programs are free and open to the public. Registration is REQUIRED for each Tech Tuesday presentation scheduled from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. You can register for these events by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary. org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “SignUp for Programs.” There is no registration needed for the 3:00 to 3:30 p.m. Tech Consultant Drop-in sessions.
AMHERST – In the final program of the Exploring the Truth: in News, in Literature, in Life series offered at the Amherst Town Library, John Gfroerer presents “Television: The Art and Ethics of Manipulation,” on Thursday, March 22 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. The Library has received a grant from the New Hampshire Humanities to offer this program. In this presentation, Gfroerer explores the power of television as a communication medium and the ethical implications of manipulating the viewer by means of the choices made behind the cam-
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and success as the first female professional soldier, through interactive stories and authentic colonial attire. Deborah’s passion will take you back in time! Professional educator, actress, and living historian Judith Kalaora captivates audiences with her portrayal of Deborah Sampson. An indentured servant by age five, Deborah grew up in a man’s world, where women were naught but second-class citizens. Without the
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era through the final editing process. By examining the artistic techniques used to persuade, induce, and entice us, Gfroerer considers the extent to which television teaches or simply tantalizes us. Are ethical boundaries crossed by the use of these techniques, and to what extent as media consumers should we care? Gfroerer is a documentary producer and owner of Accompany, a video production company based at the Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord. He has produced over 40 documentaries, ranging from profiles of towns along the Maine Coast
to a history of the New Hampshire Presidential Primary. Gfroerer’s work has been aired on public television stations, the History Channel, and many other venues. This program is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED due to space limitations. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
A Revolution of Her Own! — A Living History Presentation
Free Market Analysis
Summer Camps: “Painting and Drawing from Nature” July 16-20; and “Animal Art” July 23-27 Ages 8+. Cost $150, siblings $125
Good,” helps us feel a sense of appreciation, even when we have challenges. Part 3, “Loving-Kindness,” allows us to feel more connected to our family, friends, and community. This series is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED for each session due to space limitations. You are welcome to attend any or all of the series workshops. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
The Amherst Town Library
For Periodic Updates, visit: www.amherstcitizen.com Creative Ventures April Art Camp
is part of the Library’s April themed programming for adults entitled Poetry, Art, and the Magic of the Mind. Throughout the series, you will learn the practices that actually grow the grey matter of the brain and help you become more resilient, emotionally intelligent, and happier. Each workshop will focus on a single topic and include an opportunity to practice, exercises for integrating the practice into your life, and time for discussion. Part 1, “Mindfulness,” teaches us how to be in the present moment and settle our racing minds and busy lives. Part 2, “Gratitude and Taking in the
Television: The Art and Ethics of Manipulation
The Amherst Town Library
The Amherst Town Library’s fifth program in its new series, Tech Tuesdays, is “Appy Hour: Mobile Devices 101,” on Tuesday, March 20 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Johnson Meeting Room. Presenter Jennifer Koerber, freelance writer, consultant, and trainer on technology in everyday life, brings her specialized expertise to create informative learning environments on all things tech. As Jennifer says, “I don’t just train people; I help them find the confidence to learn.” In this presentation, learn about different kinds of mobile devices— smartphones, tablets, e-readers, cell phones—and how they work. We will discuss the basics of what an app is and how to start using apps that are useful to you. Bring your mobile device if you have one and we will try to answer your questions. Presenter Jennifer Koerber worked for 17 years at the Boston Public Library, and has written ex-
Amherst – Way Stop or Destination
Minecraft Club
Make-it/Take-it Craft
We have book clubs for all ages— If you’re interested, please contact Miss Sarah (shydorn@amherstlibrary. org or 673-2288) Story Club for Kids and Parents, Too (for kids in grades K-2 and their parents) meets on the first Mon-
It’s About Conservation
Northeast Tree Removal
ability to vote or to own property, Deborah knew her options were limited; breaking the rules may be necessary to accomplish a greater goal in life. As a self-educated woman, Deborah was the only schoolmarm in Middleborough, Massachusetts; however, she felt a higher calling as she heard news of the rebellion while working in the local tavern. After ten years working as a farm hand, Deborah was strong and possessed the physical capabilities of her male counterparts. And then, on May 23, 1782, wearing an old soldier’s uniform, Deborah bound her chest, tied back her hair, and enlisted in the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment of the Continental Army under the alias “Robert Shurtlieff.” Presenter Judith Kalaora graduated Magna Cum Laude from Syr-
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acuse University and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language and Culture. She attended the Globe Education Program of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London, England. Judith founded History at Play in 2010 to provide educational entertainment, chronicling the lives of influential and often forgotten women. She researches, writes, produces, and performs. This program is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED due to space limitations. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
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6 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Groups
This Month at the Library Amherst Town Library
New England Quilts and the Stories They Tell
Codebreaking and Information Theory: Cryptography, Then & Now
Free Program March 21
AMHERST – Come celebrate “almost” Pi Day at the Amherst Town Library on Tuesday, March 13th at 7 p.m. when Chris Rycroft, Associate Professor of Applied Mathematics in the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences presents, “Codebreaking and Information Theory: Cryptography, Then & Now” in the Main Reading Room of the Library. Since the time of antiquity, humans have been sending coded messages to each other in order to protect sensitive information. This talk will cover historical methods for decoding messages, the seminal work of Claude Shannon in the 1940s that laid the foundation for digital communication, and modern approaches used to protect everyday internet transactions. Professor Rycroft obtained his Ph.D. in Mathematics in 2007 from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. To add to the festiveness of the event, the Friends of the Amherst Town Library are providing pieces of delicious “pie” to celebrate upcoming “Pi Day” (3.14). All programs offered at the Amherst Town Library are free and
Liz Overholt, Event Planner, and Deirdre Rogusky, Moderator, at the Sixth Annual Candidates Night Chris Rycroft
open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED for each program due to space limitations. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
Amherst Town Library
Fake News: What’s The Real Story? AMHERST – White House press veteran Randall Mikkelsen kicks off the Amherst Town Library’s series for adults, Exploring the Truth: In News, in Literature, in Life, with the presentation, “Fake News: What’s the Real Story?” on Monday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m. Join a non-partisan discussion with Randall Mikkelsen, a managing editor at Thomson Reuters, on how to understand what we are getting in the social-media driven news landscape and how to tell the real from the fake. The wave of ‘fake news’ that flooded Facebook and other social media during the 2016 Presidential election campaign was a wakeup call. Big changes have overtaken the way we get news in the United States, how newsmakers communicate and how news in produced. These changes have given us the opportunity to be better informed. They also require us to be more careful consumers, so we can recognize distortion, propaganda, and outright lies. Randall Mikkelsen has worked as a financial and political journalist with Thomson Reuters since
he joined Reuters in 1988. He has covered many of the major stories of the era, including the fall of the Soviet Union, the impeachment of Bill Clinton, the war on terrorism and the financial crisis. Randall was a front-row member of the White House Press Corps for nearly seven years. He also covered the Justice Department, CIA, and other agencies in Washington and served postings in Philadelphia and Stockholm, Sweden. As a desk editor in Washington, he handled major stories from around the globe. He has won awards from the Society of American Business Editors, and Writers and the North Dakota Newspaper Association. This program is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED due to space limitations. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
AAUW Sixth Annual Amherst Candidates Night Held February 13 AMHERST – The Southern New Hampshire Branch of the American Association of University Women held the Sixth Annual Amherst Candidates Night on Tuesday, February 13, at the Amherst Town Hall. All candidates who had filed seeking to be elected to an Amherst town or school position were invited. The evening gave the public a chance to meet candidates
and hear their positions on issues. Twelve participated and other candidates sent written statements that were read. Election Day is Tuesday, March 13 at Souhegan High School from 6 am to 8 pm. The event was recorded and may be seen on your computer at http:// amherstnh.viebit.com, and on Comcast Channel 20.
Quilts tell stories, and quilt history is full of myths and misinformation as well as heart-warming tales of service and tradition. Come hear about “New England Quilts and the Stories They Tell” on Wednesday, March 21 at Messiah Lutheran Church on Route 101 in Amherst. Pam Weeks will weave world history, women’s history, industrial history and just plain wonderful stories into her presentation. This program, hosted by the Nipmugs chapter of Questers, will begin at 10 a.m. Refreshments will be served at 9:30. Attendees are invited to bring one quilt for identification and/or story sharing. Ms. Weeks is curator of the New England Quilt Museum and co-author of Civil War Quilts published in 2012. She started making quilts as a result of the craft revival inspired by the Bicentennial in 1976, using the limited calicos available. By the mid-1980s she was designing her own work and considered herself an art quilter, making quilts based in tradition with an emphasis on non-traditional color. A class with Nancy Crow sent her into the world of hand-dyed fabrics and improvisational quilts. She got hooked on quilt history after taking a class in 1991 on reproducing antique quilts.
Pam Weeks, speaker
This program is made possible by a grant from New Hampshire Humanities. Learn more at nhhumanities.org. For questions about Nipmugs or this event, contact Nancy Head, 673-1389.
AAUW members at Candidates Night: L-R: Linda Dyer, Susan Hoover, Romi Krosch, Liz Overholt, Deirdre Rogusky, Ingrid Michaelis, Sally Hogan, Judy Dennis, Liz McMillan
PHOTO BY: SUSAN HOOVER
The Souhegan Valley Quilters’ Guild raffled this beautiful quilt in December. The lucky winner was Shannon Chandley of Amherst. The money raised will help the Guild support their various charities which include the Stork Project, the Animal Rescue League of NH, the New England Quilt Museum, and the Comfort Closet which provides quilts for people going through life changing situations. Members’ quilts are currently being hung in the lobby of Greenbriar Home Health Services in Nashua. The Guild meets twice each month. New members are all welcome. For more information, please go to our FaceBook page.
Amherst Town Library
Amherst Junior Women’s Club Family Spring Events
Ides of March Shakespeareance and Shakespeare Sunday: Bliss by The Book AMHERST – Shakespeare comes alive at the Amherst Town Library! Educator and Shakespeare scholar Julia Perlowski presents “The Ides of March Shakespeareance” on Thursday, March 15 at 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. and “Shakespeare Sunday: Bliss by the Book” on Sunday, March 18 at 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Main Reading Room of the Library. “The Ides of March Shakespeareance” on March 15, is an interactive workshop where participants will look very closely at a small series of ensemble scenes (one of which will be from Julius Caesar and one of which will be from Romeo and Juliet) to play with language by speaking text aloud. As Julia Perlowski shares, “we will also have fun getting some of these pieces on their feet.” In “Shakespeare Sunday: Bliss by the Book,” on March 18, Julia will delve into Shakespeare’s First Folio and the printing history of this collection as age old questions about Shakespeare are considered. Why is there no writing in Shakespeare’s hand? How is it that we have so many plays said to be written by a man named Shakespeare? Did Shakespeare even write his plays? Find out about this and MORE as Julia Perlowski delivers a Shakespeare lecture about Shakespeare’s first compilation of plays known as the First Folio. This lecture will be light and fun and will be sure to whet your appetite for more involvement with the Bard! Julia is a member of the National Teacher Corps for the Folger Shakespeare Library Education Department, through which she conducts workshops for teachers at the na-
tional level. She has been trained at England’s GLOBE, the American Shakespeare Center, The Folger Shakespeare Library, and Lenox Shakespeare & Co. In 2010, the U.S. State Department awarded the Teaching Excellence Award to Perlowski. While stationed in Gujarat, India, she trained 40 teachers to dynamically engage their students in complex early modern English text. Julia’s work extends into Krakow, Stockholm, and into St. Lucia, where she is planning to produce and offer performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream throughout the island as fundraiser for Edward for Education. Currently, Julia is a drama teacher at Parthum Middle School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where she is contributing to the turn-around effort under District Receiver Jeffrey Riley. In addition to contributions to public school, Julia is an English Speaking Union-Boston Branch board member for which coordinates the Annual Shakespeare competition. The Amherst Town Library is grateful to the Friends of the Amherst Town Library for providing the funding for these two wonderful Shakespeare programs. All programs offered at the Amherst Town Library are free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED for each program due to space limitations. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary. org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “SignUp for Programs.”
Easter Egg Hunt at the Town Common: Saturday, March 24th 10am –
Bring your littles to hunt for eggs at our annual event. Meet at the Congregational Church at 10am where the actual Easter Bunny will lead the parade to the Common! Treats will also be provided for the kids. This special and adorable event is free! Marta McDowell, White House Garden historian
All the Presidents’ Gardens Presented by Marta McDowell Each President leaves a personal imprint not only on the Office but on the White House itself. Garden historian Marta McDowell will be speaking about her bestselling book All the Presidents’ Gardens on April 7th at 2:00 pm at the Hollis Brookline High School. The book explores the untold history of the White House grounds. From George Washington’s seed collecting to Michelle Obama’s vegetable gardens, it traces the story of how presidents and their families have left their imprint on the eighteen acres surrounding the executive mansion. Learn fascinating tidbits about Lincoln’s goats, Ike’s putting green, Jackie’s iconic roses, and Amy Carter’s tree house. All The Presidents’ Gardens made the New York Times bestseller list in 2015 and won an American Horticultural Society book award. The book features new and historical photographs and art. Her book will be for sale and she will be available to autograph. Marta McDowell teaches landscape history and horticulture at
The New York Botanical Garden, where she studied landscape design. Her garden is included in the Smithsonian’s Archive of American Gardens and in 2018 she will be gardener-in-residence at the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst. Her particular interest is in authors and their gardens, exploring the connection between the pen and the trowel. She has written a number of books on the subject such as Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life. This event is sponsored jointly by the Colonial Garden Club of Hollis, the Merrimack Garden Club, the Milford Garden Club and the Nashua Garden Club. These clubs have come together in order to bring a nationally known author and speaker to the public at an affordable price. Tickets are $10 in advance ($15 at the door) and may be purchased online at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/a l l-t he-presidents-ga rdens-tickets-41704562469. Or send a check for $10.00 payable to Hollis Garden Club, c/o Merrimack Garden Club, PO Box 426, Merrimack, NH 03054.
Family BINGO Night at Wilkins: Friday, April 7th 5:30-7:30 –
This is a fun affordable night out for families – especially those with grade school kids! Each BINGO game has awesome prizes and multiple winners. A full set of games is $10 per player. Pizza, Beverages & Snacks will be available for purchase (no cooking or clean up for you tonight!)
Penny Sale at Wilkins: Saturday, April 8th Doors open at 5:30 winners are pulled starting at 7:00 –
Take your chance at winning over 200 raffles! Home Décor,
Home Services, Sports Memorabilia, Gift Certificates, Crafts & more. Get 250 tickets for $5! We will have large prize raffles, a 50/50 and a $10 wine pull. Make this a fun night out with girlfriends or a date night! Enjoy the amazing food truck and the infamous baked goods from Amherst Juniors that will be available to purchase. You need not be present to win the larger raffle items or the 50/50 raffle. Questions? Contact KAllen96@gmail.com
Mother’s Day Photo Shoot at Amherst Garden Center 305 Rt. 101 : Saturday April 14th 10:00-1:00 –
Local photographer Colette Harmon will be taking photos of families. Perfect gift for Mom’s, Aunt’s and Grandma’s! A $20 donation to the Amherst Juniors will provide you with a beautiful digital photo. Children can make a frame for Mother’s Day at the free craft table. No appointment necessary – just show up with your smile! www. ajwcnh.org
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www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
Arts
&
Entertainment
PTA Math and Science Night
Come join the Amherst PTA at Wilkins School on 3/16 for a free, fun, and educational night, as we explore the math and science behind mythical creatures and fearsome monsters! Parents are encouraged to come with their K-5 students and explore over 20 stations together. Come learn the secrets of Kraken Ink, play a Medusa snake game, or try the Bigfoot long jump. We hope to see you there!
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 7
Milford Area Players Presents “A Few Good Men” Milford Area Players, winner of the 2013, 2011, and 2009 New Hampshire Theatre Award for Best Production in Drama/ Comedy for Community Theatre, is proud to present A Few Good Men by Aaron Sorkin at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts, 56 Mont Vernon Street, Route 13N, Milford, NH, March 9 - 18. This Broadway hit about the trial of two Marines for complicity in the death of a fellow Marine at Guantanamo Bay sizzles on stage. The Navy lawyer, a callow young man more interested in softball games than the case, expects a plea bargain and a cover up of what really happened. Prodded by a female member of his defense team, the lawyer eventually makes a valiant effort to defend his clients and, in so doing, puts the military mentality and the Marine code of honor on trial. The cast for A Few Good Men include Roger Hurd, Tom Partridge and Larry Watson of Amherst; Mike Colena of Hollis;
James Haupt of Hudson; Amy Agostino of Londonderry; Anja Parish of Manchester; Chris Avery of Merrimack; Alex Lacourse and Max Maloney of Milford; Max Chittister, Len Deming, Kevin Linkroum and Patrick McCarty of Nashua; and Rick Nantel of New Ipswich. The play is directed by Stephen Post of Manchester. A Few Good Men will be staged by the Milford Area Players for two weekends, March 9 - 18, with shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. General admission tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (60+) and students. Advance tickets are available at Toadstool Bookshop and online at www. MilfordAreaPlayers.org. Tickets are also available at the door. The theater is air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible. More information is available at our website www.MilfordAreaPlayers.org, on our Facebook page at Milford Area Players.
Larry Watson (Amherst), Kevin Linkroum (Nashua), and Anja Parish (Manchester)
Max Maloney (Milford) plays a defendant and Anja Parish from the defense team
Symphony NH Presents Bach and Mozart
Transcending The Ordinary: Abstract, Assemblage & Collage MILFORD – New Hampshire
Varujan Boghosian, mixed media paper collage
Antique Co-op is pleased to present Transcending the Ordinary: Abstract, Assemblage & Collage, an art exhibit and sale of more than 50 works including artists Joseph Cornell, Varujan Boghosian and Louise Nevelson, as well as Monadnock-region contemporary artists Roz Park, Chris Myott, Jessie Pollock, Peter Sandback and more. A St. Patrick’s Day reception will be held on Saturday, March 17, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the gallery at New Hampshire Antique Co-op. Enjoy some Guinness and sample Irish fare while touring this exhibit. Collage and assemblage art has its roots in surrealism, borrowing from that movement the concept of unexpected juxtaposition. Artist Joseph Cornell (1903-1972) was one of the earliest artists to practice this art form. He used found objects, relics and trinkets from his everyday life to create shadow boxes filled with assembled objects. These creations evoke far more than the modest contents used. Collage and assemblage artist Varujan Boghosian, born in 1926, draws inspiration for his art from many sources such as literature, art, music and history. His works often reflect his affinity for myth and symbolism, most often seen in
his use of swans and serpents. Boghosian has held a number of teaching positions including Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH, where he continues to maintain his studio. Boghosian’s artwork is widely acclaimed and can be viewed in museums across the country: The Met, Art Institute of Chicago, Currier Museum, Whitney and Philadelphia Museum of Art. Roz Park, known for her abstract paintings and collage/assemblage pieces, utilizes oil paint, watercolors, photography, fibers and natural objects to create enigmatic pieces. Her works have been exhibited at Boston Center for the Arts’ Mill Gallery in Boston, as well as in galleries throughout New Hampshire, recently winning an award at the 2017 Biennial at the Thorne-Sagendorph Art Gallery. Invigorate your winter-weary spirits with a visit to Transcending the Ordinary: Abstract, Assemblage & Collage and its unexpected artwork. Enjoy bold paintings, collage and other modern works forged from paper, paint, wood and metal. Immerse yourself in the unbounded, wildly creative and abstract visions of the modern artists included in the show. Transcending the Ordinary: Abstract, Assemblage & Collage is on view in the Tower Gallery at New Hampshire Antique Co-op from March 17 through June 30, 2018.
Roz Park, oil on canvas
NASHUA/CONCORD, NH — Symphony NH Presents Mozart and Bach with Guest Conductor Eric Garcia on Friday, March 16th at 8 PM at the Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince Street, Concord and Saturday, March 17th at 8 PM at the Keefe Center for the Arts, 117 Elm Street, Nashua. Praised for his “elegant and expressive” conducting, Eric Garcia currently serves as Music Director of the Boise Philharmonic, having previously conducted with the Seattle and Pittsburg Symphonies. An enthusiast for contemporary music and innovation, Garcia has collaborated with living composers, including John Adams and George Crumb, and artists including Pink Martini, Indigo Girls, and Cirque de la Symphonie. The concert features two pieces uniquely linked by NASA’s Voyager spacecrafts. Each craft contained a Golden Record in its cargo to represent the music and sounds of Earth and included Bach’s Bran-
denburg Concerto No. 2, which audiences can hear live in March. Bach’s masterpiece brings Symphony NH musicians center-stage with four soloists: Concertmaster Elliott Markow, principal flute Kathleen Boyd, principal oboe Cheryl Bishkoff, and principal trumpet Richard Watson. The program also includes Beethoven’s Grosse Fuge, which was originally written as part of a string quartet that is in orbit on the same Golden Record. Paired with these enduring works are Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 in A Major and Elgar’s Serenade for Strings. This concert brings the classics to life for two performances this March. Symphony NH, led by guest conductor Eric Garcia, will perform Mozart and Bach on March 16th at 8 PM at the Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince Street, Concord and March 17th at 8 pm at Keefe Center for the Arts, 117 Elm Street, Nashua. Tickets are $18 - $49 with senior discounts available. Student
Eric Garcia will conduct two performances with Symphony NH
tickets are $10, and youth tickets for audience members ages 15 and under are free with the purchase of an adult or senior ticket. Robert Hoffman will present his free pre-concert talk “Words on Music” at the
Nashua Public Library, 2 Court Street, Nashua, on Wednesday, March 14th at 5:30 pm. Information and tickets at www.symphonynh.org or 595-9156.
Southern NH Youth Ballet Presents Fancy Nancy and the Mermaid Ballet MANCHESTER – Join Southern NH Youth Ballet in Fancy Nancy and the Mermaid Ballet as they bring this childhood favorite to life on stage in this magical ballet. Southern NH Youth Ballet will also perform the storybook classic, The Ugly Duckling. Children of all ages will enjoy this sweet, short ballet as the ugly duckling grows into a beautiful swan right before their very eyes. Fancy Nancy and the Mermaid Ballet along with The Ugly Duckling will be performed at the historic Palace Theatre in downtown Manchester in two matinee performances only, Sunday, March 25th at 1:00 and 4:00 PM. There is also an opportunity to enjoy a “fancy” tea and a special meet and greet with Fancy Nancy and her friends 45 minutes prior to each show. The tea is an additional $20 per person and is limited to 50 guests only. Fancy Nancy and her best friend Bree audition for the most glamorous, the fanciest ballet of all. Will Fancy Nancy get the “fancy” lead role she is hoping for? You’ll just have to come to the show to find out. This delightful ballet choreographed by Mary LeGere, formerly of the Pennsylvania Ballet and currently the Artist Director of Raleigh Dance Theatre, Raleigh School of Ballet’s affiliate performing com-
pany. “We are thrilled to be able to work with Mary LeGere on this ballet,” stated Patricia Lavoie, Artistic Director & Founder of Southern NH Youth Ballet and Southern NH Dance Theater. “There are so many children that don’t have the opportunity to see a real ballet.” Hans Christian Andersen’s classic, The Ugly Duckling, choregraphed by Ashley Walton, an award-winning choreographer who has staged many pieces since 2009 for Southern NH Youth Ballet including Snow White the full-length ballet at the Palace Theatre in 2015. The role of Nancy will be performed by Caroline White, a thirteen-year old from Hopkinton, her best friend Bree will be performed by thirteen-year old, Sophia Hancock of Merrimack. Nine-year old Hadley Hornor of Amherst will perform the role of Jojo. The roles of Star Fish will be performed by Kaitlin Griffin, a seventeen-year old from Amherst who attends Souhegan High School and fifteen-year old Gillian Campell who attends Hollis Brookline High School. The Jillian Bowma, in white, one of the Swans; Anissa Sroka - in Grey is the Ugly Duckling will be performed Ugly Duckling and Rachel Burkett - in yellow as one of the baby chicks by Anissa Sroka, while fifteen-year old Lauren Fredette of Amherst will rinas and adults alike. Join us Sun- and under at Palace Theatre’s Box play Mother Hen. day, March 25th at 1:00 PM or 4:00 office 668-5588 or online www.palThis matinee performance is tai- PM. Tickets are on sale now for $25 acetheatre.org. lored for youngsters, budding balle- for Adults, $20 for Children ages 12
8 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Amherst Town Library Programs and Art Exhibit
Marty Kelley, Author and Illustrator Portrait Artist, Robert Shetterly
Lessons From Sixteen Years of Painting the “Americans Who Tell The Truth” Portraits For the second program in the Amherst Town Library’s series for adults, Exploring the Truth: In News, in Literature, in Life, Robert Shetterly presents, “Lessons from Sixteen Years Painting the ‘Americans Who Tell the Truth’ Portraits,” on Tuesday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Reading Room of the Library. Internationally renowned for his portrait series, “Americans Who Tell the Truth,” artist Robert Shetterly will speak and have several of his portraits on display at this very special event. Shetterly started painting portraits of strong American idealists after the 9/11 attacks, believing that painting portraits of these inspiring figures would help him deal with his grief and anger. Today, the collection is more than 230 portraits and has been exhibited around the United States and Europe in museums, schools, and churches, even sandwich shops and the Superior Court in San Francisco. The collection includes portraits of Eleanor Roosevelt, Henry David Thoreau, Abraham Lincoln, Daniel Ellsberg, Pete Seeger, and Rachel Carson just to name a few. In 2005, Dutton published a book of the portraits by the same name. In 2006, the book won the top award of the International Reading Association for intermediate non-fiction. Of the project, Shetterly said, “My original goal was to paint 50 portraits. I have gone beyond that and have decided to paint many more. The more I learned about American History— past and present—the more people I’ve discovered whom I want to
will also be exhibiting drawings he has created. For more details contact Christine Farris at FOLArts@ icloud.com
Hynes – Slocum Richard and Jill Slocum of Amherst are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Erin Leigh Slocum to Kevin Michael Hynes, son of Ernest and Joanna Hynes, also of Amherst. Both Erin and Kevin are 2004 graduates of Souhegan High School. Erin graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from George Washington University in 2008 and is currently employed as a portfolio manager at BNY Mellon Wealth Management in Manhattan. Kevin attended Boston College where he graduated with a Bachelors in history and Hispanic studies in 2008 and a Masters in history in 2009. He then went on to Boston University School of Law where he graduated magna cum laude in 2013. Kevin is employed as a litigation attorney at the Orrick law firm in Manhattan. The couple currently reside in Brooklyn. The wedding will take place in May of this year in Bristol, RI.
Scarlet Poppies: Pastel Paint Like Georgia O’Keeffe honor in this way. The paintings will not be for sale. They will stay together as a group. The courage of these individuals needs to remain a part of a great tradition, a united effort in respect for the truth…These people form the well from which we must draw our future.” Shetterly studied English literature at Harvard. While there, he took a couple of drawing courses that changed the direction of his creative life from the written word to the image. For 12 years he created the editorial page drawings for the Maine Times Newspaper, illustrated the National Audubon’s children’s newspaper, Audubon Adventures, and over 30 books. This program is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED due to space limitations. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary.org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
Friends of the Amherst Town Library’s Sixth Annual Trivia Nite The Friends of the Amherst Town Library’s sixth annual Trivia Night will take place March 17 at Hampshire Hills Athletic Club. Make sure to reserve your table soon!! Tables of 10 are a steal for $150 and single tickets are $15 each. The event will start at 5pm with food and bever-
AMHERST – During the month of March the Friends of the Amherst Town Library welcomes the delightful illustrations by children’s author and illustrator Marty Kelley in celebrating Read Across America in March. Author and illustrator of many of his own published books, Fall Is Not Easy, The Rules, Albert’s Almost Amazing Adventure to name a few as well as illustrating several books of other authors
ENGAGEMENT
ages available for purchase. Trivia Night will be accompanied by an extensive prize raffle that benefits the library. Sign up now by emailing: fotltrivianight2018@gmail.com Proceeds from the event will benefit the Amherst Town Library.
The Amherst Town Library welcomes you to happily “pop into spring” with artist Greg Maichack’s hands-on workshop for adults, “Scarlet Poppies: Pastel Paint like Georgia O’Keeffe,” offered on Wednesday, April 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Main Reading Room of the Library. Georgia O’Keeffe’s famous poppy paintings (single and double) will be the focus of this workshop as Maichack provides an easy entry into the world of pastel painting by providing all necessary strokes needed to pastel paint any image. Participants receive an engaging hands-on experience of basic pastel painting as well as advanced techniques. All materials are provided as Maichack brings hundreds of professional grade pigment-rich pastels for your use. As Greg states, “I will display my original pastel artwork of both O’Keeffe’s single and double poppy paintings to illustrate and unveil the process. Ongoing questions will be encouraged. All will take home their completed painting.” This hands-on workshop for adults is free and open to the public. However, registration is RE-
QUIRED due to space limitations. Award-winning artist Gregory Maichack lives in western Holyoke, MA. He is a portraitist and painter working primarily in pastels. He graduated from Holy Cross College with a B.S. in Experimental Psychology in 1974. He also took his first art course there. He has trained with such notables in the field of portraiture as internationally acclaimed Daniel Greene, the Copley Society’s Constance Flavell Pratt and Foster Caddell. Maichack is a member of the Portrait Society of America, Academic Artists Association, Connecticut Pastel Association, Pastel Society of the Southwest and the Degas Pastel Society. He is a faculty member of the Quadrangle Museum School at the Museum of Fine Arts in Springfield, MA and of the Guild Studio School of Eastworks. You can register for this event by calling 673-2288, emailing library@ amherstlibrary.org or by visiting our website at www.amherstlibrary. org and selecting the “Community Services” tab, then click on drop down “Sign-Up for Programs.”
AMHERST – Did you know there are over 300 species of clematis with over 1,000 cultivars? Did you know there are clematis that will bloom continuously in your New Hampshire garden for more than 16 weeks? Do you know the secrets Cheryl Monroe to growing these beautiful and versatile plants? Come to the Amherst Garden Club’s program, “Clematis: Queen of the Vines” on Thursday, April 5, and learn how this truly easy-togrow vine can make your garden the envy of all. Cheryl Monroe, a gardener, blogger, and grower of close to 100 clematis species and hybrids, will teach you proper planting, cul-
tivation, and design tricks that you can use in any garden, from an English Manor House to condominium patio, in sun, shade or in between. Ms. Monroe is a licensed educator who follows the science of plant research, new plant introductions, and design trends. She strives to have beautiful pest-free gardens on her one-acre plot in central Massachusetts. The Amherst Garden Club meets at the Messiah Lutheran Church at 303 Route 101 in Amherst. The program will begin at 10:30. It is preceded by refreshments and open to the public at no charge.
Please join us for the Fourth Annual
EMPTY BOWLS Sunday, March 18, 2018
OUR PROMISE TO NICHOLAS
l a u n n A h t 10
Amherst Garden Club to Host Master Gardener and Clematis Expert Cheryl Monroe
Proudly Sponsored By:
12 noon-2 PM at the SHARE Center
Granite State Gastrointestinal Consultants
E G G H UNT
l iva t s e f
Fun! Games, Toe Jam Puppet Band, Magician Jungle Jim of Boston, Easter Bunny, Red Sox Mascot Wally, Silent Auction, Raffles, Treats & More...
Egg Hunt EVERY 10 Minutes SATURDAY March 31, 2018 Where: NH Sportsplex Bldg. # 2, 68 Technology Drive, Bedford, NH 8:30am to 12:00pm
TICKETS NOW SOLD ONLINE ourpromisetonicholas.com Online At the Door $8 Per Person $10 Per Person $28 Per Family $32 Per Family Working together to cure Batten Disease For information about Our Promise to Nicholas Foundation go to:
www.ourpromisetonicholas.com
All are invited to the SHARE Center for a simple meal of soup, bread, and beverages to remind us of those in our community who suffer from hunger and poverty. Bowls hand crafted by the school children of our communities. All food donated by local restaurants and stores. All proceeds will go to stock SHARE’s food pantry for those in need. Tickets will be sold at the door or at the SHARE Center 18 and under: $10, Adults: $15, Families: $25. Call 603-673-9898 or visit www.sharenh.org or SHARE Outreach, Inc. on Facebook. The SHARE Center is located at 1 Columbus Avenue in Milford.
www.sharenh.org The Amherst Citizen has donated this ad space to SHARE
www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
g n a F
t s e F
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 9
Souhegan High School 2018
Fang Fest photos by Jeff Hall
10 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
School News Alana Hoskins Advances to Poetry Out Loud State Final
Students in the News
AMHERST – Souhegan High School junior, Alana Hoskins is off to compete at the NH Poetry Out Loud National Recitation Competition Final on March 9th at the State House in Concord, New Hampshire. As the Schoolwide Champion, Alana earned a spot at the NH Regional Competition on February 22 at Southern NH University, where she was named a State Finalist. The competition is presented in partner- Souhegan High School junior, Alana Hoskins ship with the NH State Council on the Arts, in Souhegan’s School-wide Final. the National Endowment for the Souhegan students recited works Arts, and the Poetry Foundation. they selected from an anthology Poetry Out Loud is a national arts of more than 900 classic and coneducation program that encourag- temporary poems. Judges evaluates the study of great poetry by of- ed student performances on critefering educational materials and a ria including voice and articulation, dynamic recitation competition to evidence of understanding, and achigh schools across the country. Po- curacy. Teachers introduced poetetry Out Loud uses a pyramid struc- ry recitation in the classroom using ture. Beginning at the classroom free, standards-based curriculum level, winners advance to a school- materials created by the NEA and wide competition, then to NH Re- the Poetry Foundation, including a gional and State competitions, and teacher’s guide, lesson plans, an onultimately to the National Finals in line anthology, posters, and video Washington, DC. Over the past 11 and audio on the art of recitation. years, Poetry Out Loud has reached Competing in the State Final, Almore than 3 million students and ana will recite from memory three 45,000 teachers from 10,000 schools poems: Planetarium by Adrienne nationwide. Rich, Very Large Moth by Craig ArNearly 500 students participat- nold, and She Walks in Beauty by ed in Poetry Out Loud at Souhegan Lord Byron. For more information, this year, with the top 16 competing visit: www.poetryoutloud.org .
MANCHESTER, N.H. — The University of New Hampshire at Manchester has named 276 students to the Dean’s List for superior scholastic performance during the fall semester of the 2017-2018 academic year. Students named to the Dean’s List at the University of New Hampshire have earned a semester grade point average of 3.5 or greater on a possible 4.0 scale in a minimum of eight graded course credits.
Notice from Registrar at SHS
Students living in the Souhegan Cooperative School District who are currently attending private schools or who may be homeschooled are invited to Souhegan High School on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to help familiarize him/her with the school and complete the registration, course selection, a math assessment, and take a tour. Please R.S.V.P. to Maren Petropulos at 673-9940 ext. 5309, or mpetropulos@sprise.com if your 8th grader will be attending the April 18th session.
Project Graduation Celebration for 2018 Grads Souhegan High School 2018 Graduation is just around the corner and with it comes the PTSA’s 13th Annual Project Graduation celebration! Project Graduation programs are popular nationwide but when the SHS PTSA founded this program locally, organizers based its design on the research and plans created by a SHS Senior for her Senior Project. Since 2006, parent volunteers, SHS staff members and community businesses have been working together to provide an all-night, substance-free celebration for SHS graduates. PTSA Project Graduation 2018 will be held on Friday evening, June 1 at the Nashua Sports Academy and will feature food, sports, inflatables, entertainment and door prizes. Pete Mamos, hypnotist, has been a favorite Project Graduation performer over the years and will be headlining the event again this year. Activities continue throughout the night and will culminate in a prize drawing in the early morning hours. While the big draw for seniors is the opportunity to celebrate together as a class before heading off to college or other activities, Project Graduation organizers value safety above all else. Parents appreciate
knowing that their students are celebrating safely on an evening that is notoriously dangerous. SADD, Students Against Destructive Decisions, reports that alcohol and drug use, especially during Prom and Graduation season, can lead to many risky and potentially destructive behaviors, such as vehicle accidents, violence, overdose, unintentional injuries and generally poor judgement. Project Graduation’s primary goal is to work to prevent such a tragedy in our community. We celebrate our Seniors in a fun and safe way! Project Graduation’s success depends upon community involvement. The PTSA relies solely on donations and fundraisers to fund the event and is actively seeking private donations, as well as corporate and small business sponsors. Anyone wishing to make a tax deductible donation can send it to: SHS PTSA Project Graduation, ℅ Denise Jacobs, PO Box 6064, Amherst, NH 03031. SHS PTSA congratulates our 2018 Seniors and hopes to see them at Project Graduation. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Krista Hanks, Chairperson, at hanks.krista@gmail.com.
Children Discover Creative Outlet During April School Vacation MILFORD – Creative Ventures, a local art gallery and studios for professional working artists, is offering a series of classes called “Creative Kids” during school vacation, April 23-27. This session of Art Camp, will run from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon and feature instructors Kristine Brock and Tami Sciola-Borelli focusing on a pencil, charcoal, acrylic, watercolor, and markers using a variety of inspiration sources. Designed for children ages 8-12, most supplies will be provided by the studio, with tuition $150, siblings $125. For registration, call Creative Ventures at 603-672-2500 or email: Creativeventures@comcast.net. More information available at: www.facebook.com/CreativeVenturesGalleryLLC/ and www.creativeventuresfineart.com on the classes page.
UNH Manchester Names Fall 2017 Dean’s List
MONT VERNON Alexander Williams, Biotechnology AMHERST Daniel Beitel, Computer Science & Entrepreneurship Kelley Osborne, ASL/English Interpreting Benjamin Pugh, Homeland Security
SNHU Announces Fall 2017 Dean’s List
MANCHESTER, NH-- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the fall 2017 Dean’s List. Eligibility for the Dean’s List requires that a student accumulate an academic grade point average (GPA) of 3.5-3.699 and earn 12 credits for the semester. Amanda Gendron of Mont Vernon Dakota Hamele of Amherst Kaitlin Knapp of Mont Vernon Steven Mahar of Amherst Daniel Passen of Amherst
University of New Hampshire’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2017 Semester
credits for the semester and earned at least a 3.25 grade point average with no grade lower than C and without any incompletes.
Madeleine Hunt Named to Dean’s List
LEWISBURG, PA - Madeleine Hunt, Class of 2021, from Amherst was named to the dean’s list at Bucknell University during the fall semester of the 2017-18 academic year. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive dean’s list recognition.
University of Rhode Island Students Named to the Dean’s List
KINGSTON, RI - The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce that 5,500 undergraduates have qualified for the fall 2017 Dean’s List. To be included on the Dean’s List, students must have completed 12 or more credits during a semester for letter grades with at least a 3.30 quality point average. The following students from Amherst have been named to URI’s fall 2017 Dean’s List: Dylan Adams Madison Adams Hallie Parenteau Thomas Lott Julia Unger
Nichols College Announces Fall Semester Dean’s List
DUDLEY, MA - Nichols College has recognized Nicole Zheng of Amherst who achieved Dean’s List status for her academic work during the fall 2017 semester.
Local residents make Dean’s DURHAM, NH – The following List at Wentworth Institute of students have been named to the Technology Dean’s List at the University of New Hampshire for the fall 2017 semester. AMHERST Highest Honors Elizabeth Lapsley, Casey Foulks, Jacqueline Siciliano, Gina Mancini, Katherine Heaney, Jessica Jay, Julia Emery, Shannon Amrein, Brett Quinn, Ely Marciano, Jonathon Amrein Faith Farnham High Honors Adria Kajenski, Lindsay Moss, Elliot Gordon, Slater Boothroyd, Katherine Almeida, Kali Mondor, Meaghan Kalinowski, Jack Foley, Taylor Hennas, Shawn Latulippe, John Arnold, Kyle Manlogon Honors Jason Emmond, Rachel Rafferty, Teigue Young, Jason D’Agati, Trace Hennas, Thomas Stover, Connor McCall, Carly Seguin MONT VERNON Honors Frances Darnall
Students named to the Dean’s List are students who have earned recognition through their superior scholastic performance during a semester enrolled in a full-time course load (12 or more graded credits). Highest honors are awarded to students who earn a semester grade point average of 3.85 or better out of a possible 4.0. Students with a 3.65 to 3.84 average are awarded high honors and students whose grade point average is 3.5 through 3.64 are awarded honors.
JMU announces fall 2017 dean’s list
HARRISONBURG, VA - James Madison University is pleased to announce that Taylor Danielle Charbonneau of Amherst made the dean’s list for the fall 2017 semester. Students who earn dean’s list honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of between 3.5 and 3.899.
UMass Lowell names local students to dean’s list
LOWELL, Mass – Local residents have been named to the dean’s list at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Stephen Flynn of Amherst majoring in business administration wasrecognized for achieving academic distinction for the fall 2017 semester at UMass Lowel. To qualify for the dean’s list at UMass Lowell, a student must have completed no fewer than 12 graded
BOSTON, Mass. - The following local students have made the Dean’s List at Wentworth Institute of Technology for the fall 2017 semester.
Spencer George of Amherst Hannah Osborn of Amherst Brendan Sileo of Amherst
Local Residents Named to Becker College’s Fall 2017 Dean’s List
WORCESTER, MA - More than 350 Becker College students were named to the Fall 2017 dean’s list, which recognizes all full-time students (24 or more credit hours earned for the academic year; 12 minimum each semester - September through May) whose term grade point average is 3.50 or higher with no grade below a B- and no incomplete (I) or withdrawal/failing (WF) grades. From Amherst Kayla Bissonnette and Natalie Caraccio made Becker College Dean’s List for Fall 2017.
Amherst Student Earns Dean’s List Recognition at Norwich University
NORTHFIELD, Vt.– Nicholas Burke Skinner of Amherst has been recognized on the dean’s list at Norwich University for the fall 2018 semester.
Local Students Named to Clarkson University Dean’s List
POTSDAM, NY -- The following students have been named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2017 semester at Clarkson University: Rhiannon Allison of Mont Vernon, a sophomore majoring in biology. Charles Landrum of Mont Vernon, a senior majoring in chemistry. Erich Rotthoff of Amherst, a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering.
Dean’s List students must achieve a minimum 3.25 grade-point average and also carry at least 14 credit hours.
Local Students Named to Fall 2017 Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College
COLCHESTER, VT - The following local students have been named to the Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College for the Fall 2017 semester. Morgan L. Zifchak, a Sophomore mathematics & elementary education major who is the daughter of Susan and Christopher Zifchak of Amherst and a graduate of Souhe-
Souhegan High School
Two Upcoming Opportunities for Parents of Current 8th Grade Students
Kristine Brock teaching children watercolor techniques at a past Summer Camp.
AMHERST – To prepare for next year, parents of current 8th grade students are invited to Souhegan High School on Wednesday, March 7, at 6:00 p.m. to meet the staff, hear about our programs, receive information, and ask questions. Your son/daughter is also cordially invited to Souhegan High School on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to help familiarize him/her with the school and complete the registration, course selection, a math assessment, and take a tour. All students living in the Souhegan Cooperative School District who are currently attending private schools or who may be homeschooled are invited to attend these sessions. Please R.S.V.P. to Maren Petropulos at 673-9940 ext. 5309, or mpetropulos@sprise.com if your 8th grader will be attending the April 18th session.
gan High School. Samantha B. Prue, a Senior media studies and digital arts major , daughter of Walter Prue and Andrea Bard of Amherst and a graduate of Souhegan High School.
Local Student Named to Fall 2017 Dean’s List at Stonehill College
EASTON, MA - The following student has been named to the Fall 2017 Dean’s List at Stonehill College. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must have a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better and must have completed successfully all courses for which they were registered. Brody Johnson, Class of 2019, from Amherst and a graduate of Bishop Guertin High School.
Roger Williams University Announces Fall 2017 Dean’s List
BRISTOL, RI - Cora Thibeault of Amherst has been named to the Spring 2017 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Announces Fall 2017 Dean’s List
WORCESTER, MA - The following local residents were among 1,608 students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) named to the university’s Dean’s List for academic excellence for the fall 2017 semester. Patrick Fitzgerald of Mont Vernon is a member of the class of 2018 majoring in physics. Daniel Oates of Amherst, is a member of the class of 2020 majoring in robotics engineering, and computer science.
The criteria for the WPI Dean’s List differs from most other universities as WPI does not compute a grade point average (GPA). Instead, WPI defines the Dean’s List by the amount of work completed at the A level in courses and projects.
Dean’s List Students Named for UA Fall 2017 Term
TUSCALOOSA, AL -- A total of 12,594 students enrolled during the 2017 fall semester at The University of Alabama were named to the Dean’s List with an academic record of 3.5 or above. From Amherst: Brian Dworkin and John Kane.
Ryan Clark Named to SUNY Geneseo’s Dean’s List for Fall Semester 2017
GENESEO, NY - Ryan Clark has been named to SUNY Geneseo’s Dean’s List for the fall semester 2017. To be on the list, a student must have achieved at least a 3.5 grade point average while taking a minimum of 12 credit hours.
Amherst Resident Rachel Lia Returns Following Intensive Research Project
WORCESTER, MA - Rachel Lia of Amherst, a member of the class of 2019 majoring in mechanical engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), was a member of a student team that recently completed an intense, hands-on research project in Nantucket. The project was titled Nantucket Food Asset Map. In their project summary, the students wrote, “The goal of this project was to develop an interactive food asset map and database for Sustainable Nantucket, Nantucket Food Pantry, and Food Rescue Nantucket to identify areas to expand food production, improve food distribution to recipients, and reduce food waste on Nantucket.”
Area Students Named to Fall 2017 Dean’s List at Merrimack College
NORTH ANDOVER, MA - Merrimack College recognizes students who have achieved Dean’s List for Fall 2017 - Lauren Trepaney of Amherst.
Wheaton College Students Named to Fall 2017 Dean’s List
WHEATON, IL - Dean’s List honors are earned by undergraduate students who carry 12 or more credit hours and achieve a 3.5 grade point average or higher on the 4.0 scale. The following students from your coverage area were named to the Dean’s List: James Kibbie of Mont Vernon.
Georgia Tech Graduates Announced
ATLANTA, GA - The Georgia Institute of Technology presented degrees to approximately 3,100 undergraduate and graduate students during the Institute’s 254th Commencement exercises on December 15-16, 2017, at the McCamish Pavilion. Andrew MacDonald of Amherst - Bachelor of Science in Me-
chanical Engineering
Local Resident Named to President’s List at LIM College
NEW YORK, NY - Abigail E. Fitzgerald of Mont Vernon was named to the President’s List at LIM College for the Fall 2017 semester. To be placed on the President’s List students must earn a grade point average between 3.8 and 4.0.
Local students named to President’s List at Clemson University
CLEMSON, SC - Local students have been named to the President’s List at Clemson University for the fall 2017 semester. Lauren E. Mccormick of Amherst, whose major is marketing Timothy John Driscoll of Mont Vernon, whose major is general engineering
To be named to the President’s List, a student must achieve a 4.0 (all As) grade-point average.
Dillon Pollio named to Endicott College Dean’s List
BEVERLY, MA - Endicott College is pleased to announce the Dean’s List students for fall 2017. The following student has met these requirements: Dillon Pollio of Amherst is a sophomore majoring in entrepreneurship. He is the son of David Pollio and Jane Pollio.
RIT students named to Dean’s List for fall semester
ROCHESTER, NY - The following students at the Rochester Institute of Technology made the Dean’s List for the fall semester: Tim Johnson of Mont Vernon is in the computer science program. Olivia Edvalson of Mont Vernon is in the photographic and imaging arts program.
St. Lawrence University Students Named to Dean’s List
CANTON, NY - The following students have been selected for inclusion on the Dean’s List for academic achievement during the Fall 2017 semester at St. Lawrence University. Emily R. Grudzien of Amherst. Grudzien is a member of the Class of 2021. Grudzien attended Souhegan High School. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a student must have completed at least four courses and have an academic average of 3.6 based on a 4.0 scale for the semester.
University of New Hampshire Announces December 2017 Graduates
DURHAM - The following students graduated from the University of New Hampshire in December 2017. Students who received the honor of summa cum laude graduated with a GPA of 3.85-4.0; students who received the honor of magna cum laude graduated with a GPA of 3.65-3.84; and students who received the honor of cum laude graduated with a GPA of 3.50-3.64. Students are only graduated after the Registrar’s Office has certified that all degree requirements have been successfully completed. Participating in the commencement ceremony is the act of honoring and celebrating academic achievement. AMHERST Alena Warren Brittany Lyon James Kennedy of Amherst Mitchell Burke of Amherst Morgen Camponescki of Amherst Shannon Amrein of Amherst MONT VERNON Colin Etzel David Anibal
Northeastern University Announces Fall Semester 2017 Dean’s List
BOSTON, Mass. (Grassroots Newswire) March 1, 2018 - Northeastern University is pleased to recognize those students who distinguish themselves academically during the course of the school year. The following local residents were recently named to the University’s dean’s list for the fall semester, which ended in December 2017. AMHERST Anna Sparks, majoring in Business Administration. Blake Karavas, majoring in Biochemistry. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean’s list, Karavas is a member of the University Honors Program. MONT VERNON Meghan Camello, majoring in Political Science/Intl Affairs. Joshua Silva, majoring in Chemistry.
To achieve the dean’s list distinction, students must carry a full program of at least four courses, have a quality point average of 3.5 or greater out of a possible 4.0 and carry no single grade lower than a C- during the course of their college career. Each student receives a letter of commendation and congratulation from their college dean.
www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
SHS Presents Spring Musical, Cinderella
Cinderella (Helen St. Cyr) has found her Prince (Christos Nassiopoulos)
AMHERST – Souhegan HS is proud to present Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Enchanted Edition. This is the version updated by producer Whitney Houston in 1997 and includes a few additional songs like “The Sweetest Sounds” and “Music in You” while still featuring classics such as “My Own Little Corner” and “Ten Minutes Ago.” “We are very fortunate to have Seniors Helen St. Cyr and Christos Nassiopoulos in the roles of Cinderella and Prince Christopher as well as Katie Giannakopoulos as the Fairy Godmother. They bring an enormous amount of talent and experience to the show, and have been wonderful leaders of the Theater Program as a whole,” says Director Jennifer Stover. Stepmother Evmorphia Alton (Sophomore) and Stepsisters Grace and Joy, played by Lucy Stover (Junior) and Alyssa Saunders (Sophomore), bring great energy and humor to their colorful characters. Senior Alex Dube and Junior Kelly Frasca play the King and Queen, Christopher’s parents, who while wishing for a lovematch for their son are not above a little manipulation to get him married off. And where would a Prince be without his trusty (and comic) steward, Lionel, played by Senior Sean Corrigan? Add in a stage full of villagers, ballroom dancers, horses, mice and even a cat and you have this magical collaboration for our Cinderella. This is an incredibly devoted and focused groups of students, who are balancing putting together this legendary musical theater classic with all the normal demands of academ-
ics, other clubs and sports, jobs and dance/voice lessons. Choreographer Amy McGuigan and Music Director Kim Whitehead are lending their talents along with set designer Stan St. Onge and orchestra leader Carl Benevides. We are very excited to have Tyler Soucy of TS Event Productions to be providing sound support. Denise Jacobs wears multiple hats, focusing on costuming now and then turning to house management once we hit show week. Jen states, “Waiting every year to watch Lesly Ann Warren as R&H’s Cinderella is a tradition from my childhood, and it is the very first musical I ever fell in love with. Not all students were familiar with this version, and our Directing team was very excited to share their affection for it with the cast and crew. Working on the Spring Production is a labor of love for all involved, and I have loved watching this inspiring group have so much fun while learning their roles. The upper classmen have warmly welcomed our enthusiastic freshman and a few other new members of the Theater Program and bring a
real sense of dedication to every rehearsal. I am so proud of them all, and I know how excited they are to perform for their friends, family and community.” With beautiful costumes, captivating choreography and 8-part harmony, this wonderful family classic promises to bring a little magic and wonder to Souhegan’s stage. Performances are Friday March 23 and Saturday March 24 at 7pm and Saturday March 24 and Sunday March 25 at 2pm. We have included an additional matinee as this is such a family-friendly production (all shows G rated!) Tickets are $8 for Students and Seniors (over 65) and $12 for adults and can be purchased with cash or checks at the Black Forest, the Homestead and Mouton’s, as well as the Welcome Center at Souhegan HS. Tickets will also be sold 75 minutes before showtime, but be forewarned- we sold out two shows last year and expect to do the same, so please plan ahead. Any questions can be directed to Jennifer and Denise at Souhegandrama@ gmail.com.
10,000 Reasons to Help Fight Batten Disease Our Promise to Nicholas Foundation (OPTN) announces the 10th Annual Egg Hunt Festival, to be held Saturday March 31, 2018 please register/purchase your tickets today! Cash, check or charge will be accepted at the door. The NH Sportsplex is located at 68 Technology Drive in Bedford. If you are interested, there are many ways in which you can make a difference, such as: event exhibitors, advertisement opportunities, raffle basket or silent auction donations. Volunteer opportunities are open for sign up on the web site: www. ourpromisetoncihoals.com. Please contact Heather Dainiak, CEO and Co-Founder at heatherdainiak@ hotmail.com to support the OPTN Egg Hunt Festival. Children enjoying themselves at a previous Easter egg hunt.
BEDFORD –That is right! Over 10,000 eggs will be ready for your little ones to gather up at the year’s Easter Egg Hunt Festival scheduled for Saturday March 31, 2018 from 8:30AM to 12:00PM at the NH Sportsplex in Bedford, NH. This is popular family fundraising event from Our Promise to Nicholas Foundation (OPTN), now it its 10th year, has become a favorite of the Hillsborough County residents and their children. The Easter Bunny is ready with 10,000 candy and prize filled eggs. “Wally” from the Red Sox is coming to meet and great all those young (and not so young) Red Sox fans. For those not actively “hunting”, there will be live entertainment by Toe Jam Puppet Band and Jungle Jim Balloon Artist and Magician of Boston. The Disney princesses are back! Also, at the hunt will be Fisher Cat’s mascot Fungo, lovable characters, bounce houses, games, face painting, Canvas Road Show, clowns, silent auction, a bake sale, and huge raffle for amazing Easter Baskets. OPTN is seeking sponsors, at all levels for this Egg Hunt to join their contributing sponsors the NH Sporsplex, Executive Health and Sports Center, Alkemy Partners, Catholic Medical Center, Bedford Ambulatory Surgical Center, Derry Medical Center of Bedford, Derry Imaging,
u The Royal Family, from left to right: Bottom row: Queen (Kelly Frasca) Cinderella (Helen St. Cyr) Fairy Godmother (Katie Giannakopoulos); Top row: King (Alex Dube) Prince Christopher (Christos Nassiopoulos) Lionel (Sean Corrigan)
SportsShorts Award Recipients – 2017/18 Indoor Track Season
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 11
Eastern Bank, Rothwangl Dental Care, Granite State Gastrointestinal Consultants, and Spectrum Marketing. Through the support of corporate sponsorships, local businesses and community volunteers, last year’s event was attended by 1200 guests who help raise $25,000 for the foundation. Our goal for 2018 is to continue to raise funds to support expert nursing care for children suffering from Batten Disease and fund essential research supporting a national data base and patent registry through the University of Rochester and Massachusetts General Hospital. OPTN plans to host a 5th scientific Batten Disease conference in Bethesda, Maryland by bringing expert researchers together from all over the world to continue collaborative efforts to diagnose and cure Batten Disease in children. OPTN will be also be supporting a Batten family emergency fund through the BDSRA (Batten Disease Support & Research Association) for families in financial need, to help with essential needs for their children. Tickets are being sold on line for $8.00 per person or $28.00 per family. By registering on line at www. ourpromisetonicholas.com you will be assured a speedy entry. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10.00 per person and $32.00 per family. The Sportsplex filed fills up fast,
Origins of the Town of Amherst
a brief period as a separate province, the territory was absorbed into the unpopular, short-lived Dominion of New England from 1686 until 1691. In 1691, the Province of Massachusetts Bay, with its seat at Boston, was formed by merging the Massachusetts Bay Colony (formed 1630), Plymouth Colony (founded in 1620), Province of Maine (not split off until 1820 as its own state), Nantucket, Martha’s Vinyard, and Nova Scotia (split off five years later). Also in 1691, New Hampshire was organized as an English crown colony, becoming the Province of New Hampshire, but between 1699 and 1741, its governor was often
Our Promise to Nicholas Foundation
Established in 2009, as a nonprofit charitable foundation, OPTN was founded by Chris and Heather Dainiak of Bedford NH after their son Nicholas was diagnosed with a rare, fatal neurological brain disease called Batten Disease. Nicholas’ parents promised him that they would work tirelessly to find a cure for this little-known disease. An estimated two to four children out of 100,000 in the United States are affected with Batten. This disease triggers seizures, blindness and immobility causing children to die between the age of eight and twelve. Sadly, Nicholas lost his battle to Batten Disease on May 9, 2014 on his 11th birthday. In keeping our promise to Nicholas, OPTN continues to work toward a cure. We are a leader with in the Batten community supporting worthy medical grants with financial aid and providing education to families and professionals fighting this disease. With the support of other family foundations, we offer the opportunity for scientists to come together to create and fund innovative research proposals. These efforts are bringing new hope to those suffering from this fatal disease. Please join us in our battle against Batten Disease. For more information regarding this event and OPTN please visit www.OurPromiseToNicholas.com.
continued from page 4
concurrently the governor of the Province of Massachusetts Bay. In 1740/1, King George II settled the boundary between New Hampshire and Massachusetts, placing Souhegan West, which lay in the disputed area, officially in the Province of N.H. Both Massachusetts and New Hampshire are counted among the original 13 colonies that formed the United States, signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776; in 1788 Massachusetts became the 6th state and N.H. became the 9th state.
Sources:
It took Daniel F. Secomb 5 chapters in his History of Amherst, N.H.,
1882, to tell about the founding of Amherst; how it came to be shire town is covered in chapter 15. Original Proprietors’ maps, showing the division of Souhegan West into lots, hang in the corridor on the second floor of Amherst Town Hall. The “Propriety Records of Souhegan West,” 1729-1770/1, can be viewed on hsanh.org. See Wikipedia articles on “Province of New Hampshire” and “Province of Massachusetts Bay” for nice clear maps of boundary changes. In Walking Tours of Amherst Village, published by the Historical Society in 2010, there is a useful, succinct historical timeline of our town (p. 2-3).
Amherst Land Trust to Run Fifth Annual Joe English Challenge
Front row L-R Thomas Headington, Ethan McFee, Arielle Zlotnick, Marissa Romano, Molly Jennings, Elise Lambert, Patrick Forster; Back row L-R Jane Leighton, Abby Cranney, Hanna Rowe, Mackenzie Hayden
SNHU Alum Devin Gilligan Travels to Sweden to Play Professional Basketball Devin Gilligan from Amherst, is playing for KFUM Nassjo Basket, a professional Swedish team that participates in the country’s top-tier premier basketball league, the Basketligan League. Gilligan is a Southern New Hampshire University graduate and played basketball for the SNHU Penmen and head coach Stan Spirou. Devin was drafted by the Delaware 87ers, a competitive team in the NBA and went to training camp with them. He did not make the final roster but he gained knowledge and experience that were valuable as he made a career move to a Swedish pro team. Back in Manchester where he trained for the next step in his career after his release from the 87ers, his agent found a team in Sweden, which he described as a “good fit” for Devin. Devin’s drive, talent and work ethic have translated well to his new Swedish team and contributed to their winning drive.
Former Amherst resident, Devin Gilligan on Swedish team
AMHERST -- On May 6, 2018, the Amherst Land Trust hosts the fifth annual Joe English Challenge, a running and hiking event with 5-, 12.5-, 25-, and 30-kilometer courses. Designed and directed by a team of experienced marathon, road-race, and cross-country organizers, the event has earned a topnotch reputation from trail runners and hikers from throughout New England and as far away as Texas, Canada, Scotland, and Puerto Rico. Proceeds from the event support the protection of land for outdoor recreation in Amherst and surrounding communities. In the past, monies have underwritten projects like Amherst’s new Joshua’s Park, a playground and community garden, and Grater Woods, an undeveloped backcountry woodland whose trails feature climax pine forest and views across southwestern New Hampshire. The four courses of the Joe English Challenge start at Freestyle Farm, a 300-acre equestrian center located in Amherst, NH, about 60 minutes from Boston, MA, and 20 minutes from Nashua and Manchester, NH. Thanks to the generous donation of facilities by farm owner Ariel Taylor, the courses start in an 8-acre field offering views of the course and ample space for parking and concessions. All participants begin the event on groomed equestrian trails. The three longer courses then pose a special challenge by dropping into the Joe English Reservation on a narrow woodland track. The 560acre reservation features a host of backcountry obstacles—ledges, stream crossings, and rocky slopes. There are no paved surfaces, no houses, and no motor traffic. The 25-kilometer course climbs a total of nearly 3,000 vertical feet.
Organizers expect over 300 participants. Trail-running and speed-hiking enthusiasts are encouraged to register for the course that best suits their aspirations and fitness. The shorter courses, at 5 and 12.5 kilometers, are designed to help trail enthusiasts step up their conditioning to tackle the longer ones in the following year. Those running the 25-kilometer course are estimated to finish in three to five hours, depending on their fitness. Those running the 12.5-kilomster course are estimated to finish in 1.5 to 2 hours. If you are a participant and wish to engage in advance conditioning, register for weekend training runs at joe-english.org. Each course features food and aid stations at regular intervals. Volunteer sports or charitable groups will staff each aid station, and the groups will compete for a “most popular station” award. The win-
ning group, based on the votes of runners, will earn a $250 donation to its organization. If your group is interested in running an aid station, inquire at joe-english.org. Proceeds of this fundraising event go to the Amherst Land Trust. The Trust is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization incorporated in The State of New Hampshire. Since 1975, it has protected land from development, so as to preserve the rural aesthetic of the community, conserve natural resources, and save land for active and passive recreation. The Trust seeks sponsorships of the event from companies and organizations. Sponsorships cover two events, the Trail Challenge in the spring and its sister event, the duskto-dark Twilight Challenge on September 22. For further details on participation or sponsorship, visit joe-english.og or the Joe English Challenge Facebook page.
12 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Town of Amherst Ballots & Letters Chen Balances Needs of Students and Impact to Taxpayers
Absentee Ballots Election Day is Tuesday, March 13, 2018. The polls will be open from 6AM to 8PM at Souhegan High School.
To the editor,
I will be voting for David Chen for Souhegan School Board on March 13th and I recommend that all Amherst voters do the same. I appreciate the analytical and data driven approach David brings to the table when deciding not just how many of our tax dollars to spend but where they are best spent. School budgeting decisions are always about balancing the needs of the students with the impact to taxpayers in order to provide high quality education in a cost efficient manner. Look at David’s plan to give every student a laptop computer over the next 3 years. This will actually cost less than the traditional 4 year replacement schedule and serve students better. This is exactly the kind of innovative thinking we need more of! David is also bringing a common sense approach to the issue of school security. He listens to the subject matter experts, looks at the information available regarding best practices and seeks to implement the best possible solution, again taking taxpayer impact into account. David Chen has done an exemplary job serving on the Souhegan School Board and I know he will continue to do so in his next term. He deserves your vote on March 13.
Absentee ballots are available to registered voters of the town. NH law requires that you vote in person at the polls unless you declare one of the following absences: 1) You plan to be absent on election day from the town where you are domiciled. 2) You cannot appear in public because of observance of a religious commitment. 3) You are unable to vote due to a disability. 4) You cannot appear at any time during polling hours at the polling place because of an employment obligation. For the purposes of this application, the term “employment” shall include the care of children and infirm adults, with or without compensation. Any person who votes or attempts to vote using an absentee ballot who is not entitled to vote by absentee ballot shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. RSA 657:24
Vote Casey Loose for ASD Board To the editor:
I’m writing to endorse Casey Loose as candidate for the Amherst School Board. Casey and I have been neighbors for over a decade and I’ve come to know him and his family very well over the last ten years. Casey’s daughter started Kindergarten in Amherst and graduated from Souhegan just last year. Despite the fact his daughter has moved on to college, he remains deeply committed to the continued success of our great schools. Simply put, he’s recently followed his student from one end of the system to the other and wants to pay it back. Casey strongly believes that good quality schools benefit all Amherst residents and serve as the foundation of the vibrant and healthy community we enjoy. Casey understands that, as tax payers and home owners, we all depend on the excellence of our schools and the success of its students. This is true for all residents, not just those who currently have children in the system. I strongly support Casey’s candidacy. He’s experienced our schools in action from K-12. He’s served on the ASD Ways & Means Committee for 2 years. He’s a military veteran and 13-year resident of Amherst. Vote for Casey! His breadth of experience and continued public service on the board will benefit all Amherst residents. Kirk Rogers Amherst
Town Clerk PO Box 960 Amherst NH 03031
Or picked up at the office during regular business hours.
CANDIDATES FOR TOWN OFFICES, AMHERST, NH: Town Officers to be elected March 13, 2018:
For three years:
Two Selectmen
For two years: For three years: For three years: For three years:
One Town Moderator One Town Treasurer One Cemetery Trustee Two Library Trustees
For six years: For three years: For three years:
One Supervisor of the Checklist One Trustee of the Trust Funds Two Zoning Board of Adjustment Members
Mike Akillian John D’Angelo Reed Panasiti Stephen W. Coughlan Elizabeth Overholt Lisa M. Eastland Nancy T. Baker Karl (Ted) Krantz Margaret B. Paul Lori Mix Kevin Shea Douglas H. Kirkwood
CANDIDATES FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICES: School District Officers to be elected March 13, 2018:
For three years:
AMHERST SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICES: One School Board Member Kevin Shea Casey Loose
MONT VERNON SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICES: For three years: Two School Board Members Sarah Lawrence For one year: One School District Moderator Peter King For one year: One School District Treasurer Lyn Jennings For one year: One School District Clerk SOUHEGAN COOPERATIVE SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICES: For three years: One School Board Member Martin Goulet Amherst resident David H. Chen For one year: One School District Moderator C. George Bower
To the editor:
We have known Reed Panasiti for the past 17 years. In that time we have witnessed his dedication to our community, his friends, and family. Reed is always available to lend a helping hand. He is realistic and knowledgeable about community needs as well as political concerns. His opinions are based on facts and experience, and he openly listens to concerns of others and his actions as a selectman reflect the combination of citizen thoughts, and community needs, while considering fiscal responsibility. We urge you to vote along with us for Reed Panasiti to continue as a Selectman for Amherst. Sincerely, Deanna and Jeff Cordts Amherst
Re-Elect Former Selectman and Amherst Pipeline Task Force Chairman John D’Angelo
Mark Vincent Amherst
Absentee ballots may be requested in person at the town clerk’s office from 9AM to 3PM, Monday through Friday and Tuesday night from 4:30 to 6:30 and up to 5PM on Monday, March 12, 2018. They must be returned by 5PM on Election Day, Tuesday, March 13, 2018. Absentee ballots may be requested by mail by submitting a request in writing with the signature of the requestor. Absentee ballots may be mailed to the Town Clerk’s office or delivered in person. If the voter cannot return the ballot, a family member may return the ballot but an Absentee Ballot Return Form (RSA 657:17) must be signed. Absentee ballots cannot be returned to other departments in the Town Hall and will not be accepted by other department employees. Applications can be found at www.amherstnh.gov and scanned and emailed to ndemers@amherstnh.gov, or mailed to:
Re-Elect Reed Panasiti
Why Vote for Martin Goulet for the Souhegan School Board? To the editor:
As I watched the Souhegan School District budget process unfold over the past two years, I was pleased to see that we had an Advisory Finance Committee (AFC) that was invested, not afraid to ask tough questions, and one that expected accountability from both the school board and the administration. And Martin Goulet was a standout for me in this respect. As a member of the Souhegan School Board when Martin was first appointed to the AFC, I saw firsthand the thoughtful approach he took. Martin asked questions….alot of questions. If he wasn’t satisfied, he would dig further, or request additional meetings with appropriate administrators. He understood that a great education comes at a cost, but that it has to be a reasonable and supportable cost. Even when he did not agree, he listened - really listened. He was open minded enough to change his opinion if he felt the facts warranted it. He was respectful and realized that there were other points of view, and sought out those points of view. He took this approach with his fellow committee members as well, sometimes setting up additional meetings to ensure that he understood where they were coming from. And he worked collaboratively, realizing that there is often more than one solution. So why vote for Martin? Because all of these qualities are exactly the characteristics that make a great school board member. My observations of Martin on the Souheagan AFC, as well as recent conversations I have had with Martin, make me feel confident in supporting him for the Souhegan School Board. Martin is the real deal. Please join me in supporting Martin Goulet for Souhegan Cooperative School Board.
To the editor:
Have you ever driven past Souhegan High School’s fields and seen all the kids competing, or enjoyed the wooded spots in our town in their fall colors, especially as they meet the river’s edge over near the Merrimack line? The fact that those fields, forests, and even many homes here in Amherst remain safe and undamaged is due in no small part to the work of John D’Angelo, who is now running for re-election to Selectman. It has been over three years since Kinder Morgan first announced that they were applying to build the NED pipeline through Amherst, not too long to forget how helpless the situation seemed when we first heard about it, like there was little we could do to prevent the project from barreling right through our community -- our homes, our schools, our natural resources and our conservation lands. Under the federal rules that govern these projects, our people, our town officials and even our state leaders had no formal say in whether this project could go forward; and we began to worry that we would not be heard at all. Selectman John D’Angelo changed all that, and proved that he is a true public servant: he listened; he worked tirelessly; and he led us in taking intelligent, effective and decisive action. With the Select Board’s blessing, John created the Amherst Pipeline Task Force — a committee of volunteer concerned residents dedicated to understanding the confusing, complex, and often contradictory laws, regulations, and processes surrounding gas transmission pipelines. As chairman, John charged the Task Force to “start with the facts” and research all the possible impacts — positive, negative or neutral — that this pipeline would have on our economy, our safety, our culture, our community, and our energy. From that research, which John ensured was presented to citizens on the town website as we developed it, the Task Force produced a body of work that went on to become the factual foundation for the politics of the issue, cited extensively by towns and citizens across the region. As the negative impacts of the project for Amherst became abundantly apparent, John then led the Task Force in developing a strategy to oppose the NED pipeline application on behalf of our community. We brought strong pressure on our Governor and federal representatives to take a position against the pipeline. In April 2016, Kinder Morgan withdrew its petition, an extremely rare ending in these situations, and a strong testament to John D’Angelo’s leadership. John has served as a selectman in previous terms, and is an active member of the Town Ways and Means Committee. He has a strong track record of thoughtful, deliberative leadership, even on contentious issues such as the NED pipeline. Vote for John D’Angelo as Selectman in our town election on March 13! Respectfully, Amanda Morrow Jensen Jon Michael Vore Joseph McCool Colin Lonsdale Tiani X. Coleman
Sincerely, Mary Lou Mullens Amherst ARTICLES CONTINUED
BALLOT 1 OF 2
Shall the Town vote, pursuant to RSA 79-A: 25, II, to change the amount of revenues of all future payments collected pursuant to RSA 79-A, Current Use Taxation, to be deposited into the existing Conservation Fund in accordance with RSA 36-A:5, III from 50%, which is the current level, to 100%. If adopted this article shall take effect on April 1, 2018 and shall remain in effect until altered or rescinded by a future town meeting. (Majority vote)
A. TO VOTE, completely fill in the OVAL to the RIGHT of your choice(s) like this: B. Follow directions as to the number of candidates to be marked for each office. C. To vote for a person whose name is not printed on the ballot, write the candidate’s name on the line provided and completely fill in the OVAL. Vote for not more than two
(3 Years)
Vote for not more than one
(3 Years)
Shall the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of forty-three thousand five hundred dollars ($43,500), said sum to come from the amount collected and deposited into the Land Use Change Tax Fund (LUCT) in the preceding fiscal year and to transfer said amount into the Conservation Fund to be used for a trail grant match, update the town forest management plan and control of invasive species. No additional amount to be raised by taxation. (Majority vote)
Vote for not more than two
(3 Years)
DOUGLAS H. KIRKWOOD
MIKE AKILLIAN
CEMETERY TRUSTEE
(Write-in)
TRUSTEE OF THE TRUST FUNDS
PL E
Vote for not more than one
(Write-in)
(3 Years)
LIBRARY TRUSTEES
STEPHEN W. COUGHLAN (Write-in)
NANCY T. BAKER
(Write-in)
M
(Write-in)
NAME Rescue Squad Fund Fire Station Renovation Fund Structural Repair Fund Forest View Design Fund
YES NO
Shall the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of one hundred-fifteen thousand ($115,000) to be added to the Bridge Repair and Replacement Capital Reserve Fund, previously established. (Majority vote)
MARGARET B. PAUL (Write-in)
ARTICLES
Shall the Town vote to raise and appropriate as an operating budget, not including appropriations by special warrant articles and other appropriations voted separately, the amounts set forth on the budget posted with the warrant or as amended by vote of the first session, for the purposes set forth herein, totaling $13,894,881. Should this article be defeated the default budget shall be $13,511,243, which is the same as last year with certain adjustments required by previous action of the Town or by law; or the governing body may hold one special meeting in accordance with RSA 40:13 X and XVI to take up the issue of a revised operating budget only. This operating budget warrant article does not include appropriations contained in any other warrant article. (Majority vote)
Establish a Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund and Deposit Funds to Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund
Shall the Town vote to establish a Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund pursuant to RSA 31:19-a, and to authorize the expenditure of income and principal for the maintenance, capital improvements, and construction of all cemeteries and to raise and appropriate the sum of $79,381.13 and accumulated interest, and deposit same into the Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund and further to designate the Cemetery Trustees as agents to expend. Said funds shall come from the monies available as a result of the passage of the preceding Article (32) and no part of this appropriation shall be raised through taxation. This article is contingent on the passage of Article 32. (Majority vote)
ARTICLE 29: Communications Center Capital Reserve Fund Shall the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) to be added to the Communications Center Capital Reserve Fund, previously established. (Majority vote)
Shall the Town vote to establish a contingency fund for the current year, in accordance with NH RSA Section 31:98-a, for unanticipated expenses that may arise and further to raise and appropriate the sum of one hundred-twenty thousand dollars ($120,000) to go into the fund. Said sum shall come from the undesignated fund balance and no amount to be raised from taxation. Any appropriation left in the fund at the end of the year will lapse to the general fund. (Majority vote)
ARTICLE 33:
YES NO
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 6-0)
ARTICLE 23: Contingency Fund
YES NO
YES NO
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 5-1.)
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 6-0.)
YES NO
YOU HAVE NOW COMPLETED VOTING THIS BALLOT
GO TO NEXT BALLOT AND CONTINUE VOTING
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 6-0.)
YES NO
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 5-1.)
Shall the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) to be added to the Assessing Revaluation Capital Reserve Fund, previously established. (Majority vote)
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 7-0.)
YES NO
Shall the Town vote, in accordance with RSA 31:19-a, (II), to discontinue the Cemetery Lots Fund, previously established by town meeting in 1987, and transfer the balance in the amount of $79,381.13 and accumulated interest, to the Town Treasurer. This article is contingent on the passage of Article 33. (Majority vote)
YES NO
ARTICLE 28: Assessing Revaluation Capital Reserve Fund
YES NO
AMOUNT $14.40 $156.38 $-0$-0-
ARTICLE 32: Dissolve Cemetery Lots Fund
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 6-0.)
ARTICLE 22: Operating Budget
DATE ESTABLISHED 1975 2015 2013 2006
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 7-0.)
ARTICLE 27: Bridge Repair and Replacement Capital Reserve Fund
Vote for not more than one
(6 Years)
(Write-in)
ARTICLE 31: Discontinue Capital Reserve Funds
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 7-0.)
SUPERVISOR OF THE CHECKLIST
KARL (TED) KRANTZ
SA
Shall the Town vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1, for the purpose of renovating the Police Station and to raise and appropriate up to the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) to be placed into said fund and to further name the Board of Selectmen as the agents to expend. (Majority vote)
LORI MIX
Vote for not more than two
(3 Years)
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 7-0.)
YES NO
ARTICLE 26: Police Station Renovation Capital Reserve Fund
Vote for not more than one
YES NO
Shall the Town vote, pursuant to RSA 35:3, to discontinue the following Capital Reserve Funds, with said fund including accumulated interest to date of withdrawal, to be transferred to the town’s unassigned fund balance. (Majority vote)
PL E
LISA EASTLAND
MODERATOR (2 Years)
Vote for not more than one
(3 Years)
(Write-in)
M
(Write-in)
Shall the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two hundred-fifty seven thousand dollars ($257,000) to be added to the Fire Rescue Vehicle and Equipment Purchase and Repair Capital Reserve Fund, previously established. (Majority vote)
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 7-0.)
(Write-in)
SA
JOHN D’ANGELO
ARTICLE 30: Fire Rescue Vehicle and Equipment Purchase and Repair Capital Reserve Fund
ARTICLE 25: Appropriation of Previously Collected Land Use Change Tax Funds
ZONING BOARD MEMBER
ELIZABETH OVERHOLT
REED PANASITI
(The Board of Selectmen supports this article by a vote of 5-0.) (The Ways and Means Committee supports this article by a vote of 6-0.)
M
TOWN TREASURER
SELECTMEN
TOWN CLERK
ARTICLES CONTINUED
E
INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS
YES NO
PL
TOWN CLERK
BALLOT 2 OF 2
ABSENTEE OFFICIAL BALLOT ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION AMHERST, NEW HAMPSHIRE MARCH 13, 2018
ARTICLE 24: Amherst Conservation Commission 100% of LUCT Funds
SA
ABSENTEE OFFICIAL BALLOT ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION AMHERST, NEW HAMPSHIRE MARCH 13, 2018
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www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 13
Amherst & Souhegan School Districts Ballots & Letters Support ASD Warrant Articles To the editor:
The Amherst School Board asks for the voters’ approval on March 13 for several warrant articles to further strengthen and stabilize our District. We strive to ensure high-quality education and safe facilities while presenting justified costs to our taxpayers. Article 12 represents the Operating Budget. Although an increase of 3.2% from the current year, we believe this budget provides the necessary support for our educational programs and infrastructure maintenance. Increases are largely due to required Special Education Program additions and enhancements (2.1%). Continuing to expand in-house special education behavioral programs will decrease costs for contracted services, resulting in significant savings to the District. Plans include enhancing special education programming at Amherst Middle School and implementing a similarly modeled program at Clark-Wilkins. A reorganization of the Maintenance department within the District with trade-specific staff will provide district savings by decreasing costs associated with contracting outside services, while bringing in revenue from the other districts in SAU 39. There are two collective bargaining agreements for which we seek approval: Article 13, for a 5-year agreement with the Amherst Support Staff Association (ASSA), and Article 15, for a 4-year agreement with the Amherst Education Association (AEA). The ASSA represents our support staff, and highlights of the agreement include a restructuring of job titles and salary schedules to more accurately reflect duties and an increase in employee share of health care costs. The AEA represents our teachers, and a key provision of this agreement will reduce District cost obligation associated with Article 14.4 retirement benefit in the current contract. Over time, the District will realize significant savings as the retirement benefit moves from a defined benefit plan (retirement payout) to a defined contribution plan (similar to 401K). This agreement also strikes balance by providing teachers with a salary schedule that makes up for the lack of increases over the last two years, and reducing district contributions to health care plans. Article 17 proposes repairs and replacement of the compromised septic and site systems at the Clark school. Problems with these systems were discovered last year when, particularly during heavy rains, restroom drain and septic system backups caused serious nuisance hazards. Professional survey work conducted revealed three separate areas with a septic tank and leach field; two were previously unknown and had not been regularly serviced, and one improperly receives roof drain storm water that overwhelms the system. Plans include rerouting of roof drainage system, the removal and replacement of septic tanks and leaching fields, repaving, and playground equipment (current equipment will be removed for site work and cannot be reused). Article 18 represents repairing and replacing 2/3 of the domestic water plumbing systems at Amherst Middle School to remove lead-based solder from the system. This work is needed because domestic water plumbing systems in older buildings like Amherst Middle School were built and renovated prior to enactment of the federal regulations governing safe drinking water. The District seeks to implement a permanent solution that eliminates the risk of potential exposure to lead in drinking water. This solution has the additional advantage of increasing energy efficiency within the domestic water system by providing opportunities to better retain heat, to more easily pump water throughout the system, and to simplify future maintenance needs. Articles 17 and 18 are Special Warrant Articles, meaning allocated funds cannot be used for any other purposes, and any excess funds must be returned to the tax payer. The District has applied for infrastructure grants through the NH Department of Education, which have the potential to offset costs immensely, meaning more funds returned to the tax payer if approved. The Board proposes the continuation of adding (from surplus) up to $50,000 to cover the cost of unanticipated expenses for students with disabilities. These costs can have a serious adverse effect on the operating budget and the Board believes in the necessity of building this fund balance to an amount that will help defray some of these costs. This proposal is represented by Article 19. We truly value the support of our fellow residents and taxpayers, and we hope to see you at the polls on March 13. Respectfully, The Amherst School Board Galen Tremblay Elizabeth Kuzsma Terri Behm John Glover Paul Prescott
Endorsement for Kevin Shea
Teachers Ask For Your Continued Support: YES on Article 15.
To the editor:
To The editor:
I am writing to ask voters to support Article 15, the collective bargaining agreement between the Amherst School Board and Amherst Education Association. Amherst’s PreK-8 teachers have been working under an expired agreement for two years, and this four-year agreement provides stability for teachers, the Amherst School District and taxpayers, allowing all stakeholders to better plan for the future. The new agreement addresses Board and AEA concerns about salary, experience, health insurance and retirement. Health insurance concessions were made to shift more of the premiums towards teachers each year and a scaled approach to retirement will shift to a model that yields significant savings for the District over time. Teachers who have not been paid according to experience for the past two years under an expired collective bargaining agreement will have their experience steps corrected over two years, while the agreement also addresses teachers at the top of the salary scale who did not receive cost of living adjustments in four of the previous five years. Negotiations were productive, with the Board and AEA able to reach mutual goals through a collaborative process. Both teachers and Board members alike are deeply committed to providing Amherst PreK-8 students with a high-quality education and allowing every student to succeed. The Board and AEA believe this new agreement will help achieve these goals while remaining fiscally responsible. Amherst teachers are grateful for the ongoing support of parents and community members, and teachers ask for your continued support by voting YES on Article 15. Larry Ballard President – Amherst Education Association Amherst
Please join me in voting for Kevin Shea in the upcoming Amherst School Board election. I have known Kevin for a few years now as a friend and neighbor. I know him to be honorable, intelligent, and a man who gets things done. He volunteers his time relentlessly in town and has had a positive impact in so many areas. I feel a critical element of being on the Amherst School Board is having great ideas but also knowing how to execute quickly. Kevin does this routinely as a professional PMP certified program manager in his day to day work. A perfect example, Kevin recently learned that not all our Amherst School Teachers are CPR certified. Within hours, Kevin put things in motion to provide this training to those who want it, at no cost to the teachers. This is the type of execution that we need more of when it comes to driving towards beneficial solutions for our children. Like me, Kevin has children that currently in the school system, and he is very interested participating in the decision-making process for the district. That’s important to me. I want someone who is held accountable. Kevin will be held accountable, because he sees the teachers frequently when he’s in the schools. The kids all know him. Ask any of your elementary aged students about the firefighter who volunteers in the lunchroom, and they’ll know him right away. Our children go to school together, participate in extracurricular activities together. Kevin is reachable. Safety isn’t just an agenda item for Kevin. His kids are in these schools, and that has value. Kevin’s experience and qualities as a person prompted me to bring him into the Amherst Patriots Football organization as a coach here in our town. He is a very genuine member of our community and the kids and parents in our organization think very highly of Coach Shea. For me, someone who is active and personally invested in the schools, outweighs any short-term experience on a budget committee. I’m proudly casting my vote for Kevin Shea, and I hope you will too. Derek Oats Amherst
David Chen is Best Choice For Souhegan School Board To the editor:
Dave Chen is a respectful, honorable, & sincere person. He has lived in Amherst for over 35 years; and has volunteered his time to various positions in Amherst. He loves Amherst. He wants Souhegan to be the best high school in New Hampshire. He wants the children of Amherst to receive the best education while keeping mindful of the expense to the taxpayers. Dave has been a vocal advocate for Safety and Security Best Practices for Souhegan. These practices were created by The Department of Homeland Security. He has consistently pushed for security cameras for protection against catastrophic events and to solve lesser crimes like assault, bullying, thefts, and vandalism. I believe Dave is right, the time has come to implement the improvements that have been recommended by both the Amherst Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security. Dave is always looking for ways to improve the academics at Souhegan while being mindful of the expense. He has pushed for a STEM curriculum, and STEM lab. Dave does not avoid the tough questions like: Why are Souhegan Math assessment scores consistently lower than other schools in the area? How can we continue to offer a wide variety of programs at an affordable cost while enrollment continues to decrease? What can be done to increase enrollment? One new initiative Dave has championed highlights his ability to look for innovative ways to improve the school while lowering expenses. While looking at the expense of replacing Souhegan’s shared 800 computers, Dave suggested that the school purchase laptops for the students instead. Consequently, when a student begins their Freshmen year, at SHS, they receive a free laptop. Not only does this make our students more computer literate, it will pay for itself as hundreds of shared computers are no longer needed. Money was saved by implementing this idea! I have known Dave for about 5 years and worked with him while on the Souhegan Finance Advisory Committee. Dave will challenge the status quo and will engage in a lively debate over pertinent issues. However, Dave is always respectful and welcomes those opinions that are opposite of his own. In this day of personally attacking your opponent, Dave is a breath of fresh air. Dave will argue with facts instead of personal attacks. Problems are solved when there are a variety of opinions being considered. We need Dave to continue to challenge the status quo and look for innovative ways to improve our school. Please join us in voting for David Chen for Souhegan School Board.
Please Vote for Martin Goulet for Souhegan School Board To the editor:
There are two people running for one opening on the Souhegan School Board. It is important for voters to understand what their choice will mean when it comes to getting things done as a member of the Souhegan School Board. The two candidates may have many things in common, but I can guarantee that their approaches to the job of being a school board member are very different. As a former Souhegan Board member, I remember some of the hard lessons learned about optimizing effectiveness. First, your job as a board member is to set policy and not be tempted to run the school (the superintendent’s job). You also must do your homework, ask great questions, express your opinion, but be collaborative enough to accept the views of others and openly support the board majority in the community. Additional hard lessons to learn are that: 1) change comes at a glacial pace and 2) your decisions must be made in the interest of the total school system and not influenced by special interest groups. Last, but not least, and probably the most important lesson is as follows: As a board member you have no power or authority as an individual board member. Only the board as a whole can make policies and decisions for the school district. If you want an effective board member who is already ahead of the learning curve, one who will be collaborative, reasonable, knowledgeable and extremely effective in getting things done, I heartily recommend Martin Goulet. He brings enthusiasm, two years of budget experience on Souhegan’s Finance Advisory Committee, thoughtfulness, a sharp mind, skill in using data and a strong work ethic. In addition, he has kids at Souhegan so is clearly invested in making sure that academic excellence is maintained at Souhegan and is keenly aware of the role excellent schools play in making our communities attractive places to raise a family. He celebrates what we do best at Souhegan but also recognizes that there are areas for improvement and is willing to put in the time and effort to make that happen. We are very fortunate to have people like Martin in our community willing to step up and run for Souhegan School Board. Please vote for Martin Goulet on March 13 at Souhegan High School.
Stacie & William Kiczuk Amherst
FOR SCHOOL BOARD (For 3 Years)
(Write-in)
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Shall the Amherst School District raise and appropriate as an operating budget, not including appropriations by special warrant articles and other appropriations voted separately, the amounts set forth on the budget posted with the warrant or as amended by vote of the first session, for the purposes set forth therein, totaling twenty-six million, two hundred and ninety-one thousand, six hundred and two dollars ($26,291,602)? Should this article be defeated, the default budget shall be twenty-five million, eight hundred and fourteen thousand, two hundred and eight dollars ($25,814,208), which is the same as last year, with certain adjustments required by previous action of the Amherst School District or by law; or the governing body may hold one special meeting, in accordance with YES 0 RSA 40:13, X and XVI, to take up the issue of a revised operating budget only? Majority vote required. NO 0
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Recommended by the Amherst School Board (5-0) Recommended by the Amherst School District Ways & Means Committee (6-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.31 per thousand. Estimated tax impact of not passing this article is: $0.03 per thousand.
*NOTE: Warrant Article 12 (operating budget) does not include appropriations proposed in any other warrant articles. ARTICLE 13
Estimated Increase $49,535 $34,340 $34,795 $35,279 $45,562
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Shall the Amherst School District, if Article 13 is defeated, authorize the governing body to call one special YES 0 meeting at its option to address Article 13 cost items only? NO 0
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Recommended by the Amherst School Board (5-0) Recommended by the Amherst School District Ways & Means Committee (6-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.03 per thousand.
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and further to raise and appropriate the sum of forty-nine thousand, five hundred and thirty-five dollars ($49,535) for the 2018-2019 year, such sum representing the additional costs attributable to the increase in salaries and benefits required by the new agreement over those that would be paid at the current staffing levels? Majority vote required.
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Shall the Amherst School District approve the cost items included in the collective bargaining agreement reached between the School Board and ASSA (Amherst Support Staff Association) which calls for the following increases in salaries and benefits at the current staffing level over the amount paid in the prior fiscal year: Fiscal Year 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 2021-2022 2022-2023
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Vote for not more than ONE
CASEY LOOSE KEVIN SHEA
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Fiscal Year 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 2021-2022
Estimated Increase $405,338 $402,328 $423,532 $438,589
and further to raise and appropriate the sum of four hundred and five thousand, three hundred and thirty-eight dollars ($405,338) for the 2018-2019 year, such sum representing the additional costs attributable to the increase in salaries and benefits required by the new agreement over those that would be paid at the current staffing levels? Majority vote required,
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Recommended by the Amherst School Board (5-0) Recommended by the Amherst School District Ways & Means Committee (6-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.24 per thousand.
ARTICLE 16 E Shall the Amherst School District, if Article 15 is defeated, authorize the governing body to call one special Y S 0 meeting at its option to address Article 15 cost items only? NO 0 ARTICLE 17 Shall the Amherst School District vote to raise and appropriate the sum of five hundred and fifty-thousand dollars ($550,000) for the purpose of repairing and replacing the compromised septic and site systems at Clark YES 0 School including the connection of the school to the municipal storm water system, the removal and replacement of septic tanks and leaching fields, and the repair and replacement of paving, as needed. This special article is NO 0 a special warrant article per RSA 32:3 VI (d) and RSA 32:7 V. Majority vote required. Recommended by the Amherst School Board (5-0) Recommended by the Amherst School District Ways & Means Committee (6-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.32 per thousand.
ARTICLE 18 Shall the Amherst School District vote to raise and appropriate the sum of three hundred and ten thousand dollars ($310,000) for the purpose of repairing and replacing a majority of the domestic water plumbing systems at Amherst Middle School for the purpose of removing lead-based solder from the system and increasing energy Y ES 0 efficiency of the system. This special article is a special warrant article per RSA 32:3 VI (d) and RSA 32:7 V. Majority vote required. NO 0 Recommended by the Amherst School Board (5-0) Recommended by the Amherst School District Ways & Means Committee (6-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.18 per thousand.
ARTICLE 19 Shall the Amherst School District raise and appropriate fifty-thousand dollars ($50,000) from the year-end unassigned fund balance (surplus) if available on June 30, 2018, to be added to the Amherst School District YE S O Capital Reserve Fund for educating students with disabilities, previously established in March 2014? NO 0 Majority vote required.
Recommended by the Amherst School Board (5-0) Recommended by the Amherst School District Ways & Means Committee (6-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.03 per thousand.
VOTE BOTH SIDES OF BALLOT
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OFFICIAL BALLOT SOUHEGAN COOPERATIVE SCHOOL DISTRICT AMHERST, NEW HAMPSHIRE MARCH 13, 2018 SCHOOL DISTRICT CLERK
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INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS
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A. TO VOTE, completely fill in the OVAL to the RIGHT of your choice(s) like this: B. Follow directions as to the number of candidates to be marked for each office. C. To vote for a person whose name is not printed on the ballot, write the candidate's name on the line provided and completely fill in the OVAL.
For3 years
DAVID H. CHEN
Vote for not more than One
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MARTIN GOULET (Write-in)
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FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT MODERATOR
FOR SCHOOL BOARD
For 1 year
Vote for not more than One
C. GEORGE BOWER
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A. TO VOTE, completely fill in the OVAL to the RIGHT of your choice(s) like this: B. Follow directions as to the number of candidates to be marked for each office . C. To vote for a person whose name is not printed on the ballot, write the candidate's name on the line provided and completely fill in the OVAL.
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ARTICLE2 Shall the Souhegan Cooperative School District raise and appropriate as an operating budget, not including appropriations by special warrant articles and other appropriations voted separately, the amounts set forth on the budget posted with the warrant or as amended by vote of the first session, for the purposes set forth therein, totaling seventeen million, seven hundred and ninety-five thousand, eight hundred and one dollars ($17,795,801 )? Should this article be defeated, the default budget shall be seventeen million, six hundred and fifty-two thousand, eight hundred and ninety-seven dollars ($17,652,897), which is the same as last year, with certain adjustments required by previous action of the Souhegan Cooperative School District or by law; or the governing body may hold one special meeting, in accordance with RSA40:13, X and XVI, to take up the issue of a revised operating budget only? Majority vote required.
PL
SCHOOL DISTRICT CLERK
INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS
ARTICLE 15 Shall the Amherst School District approve the cost items included in the collective bargaining agreement reached between the School Board and AEA (Amherst Education Association) which calls for the following increases in salaries and benefits at the current staffing level over the amount paid in the prior fiscal year:
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OFFICIAL BALLOT AMHERST SCHOOL DISTRICT ELECTION AMHERST, NEW HAMPSHIRE MARCH 13, 2018
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Jeanne Ludt Amherst
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Recommended by the Souhegan Cooperative School Board (52) NO 0 Recommended by the Souhegan Cooperative School District Advisory Finance Committee (7-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0. 2 9 per thousand for Amherst and -$0.06 per thousand for Mont Vernon. Estimated tax impact of not passing this article is: $0.22 per thousand for Amherst and -$0.15 per thousand for Mont Vernon. *NOTE: Warrant Article 2 (operating budget) does not include appropriations proposed in any other warrant articles . ARTICLE3 Shall the Souhegan Cooperative School District vote to approve the costs included in the agreement between the Souhegan Cooperative School Board and the professional and support staff of Souhegan Cooperative High School which calls for the following increases in salaries and benefits at current staffing levels: Fiscal Year 2018-2019 2019-2020
Estimated Increase $225,671 $168,053
YES 0 NO 0
and further to raise and appropriate the sum two hundred and twenty-five thousand, six hundred and seventy-one d.ollars ($225,671) for the 2018-2019 fiscal year, such sum representing the additional costs attributable to the increase in salaries and benefits over those that would be paid at current staffing levels? Majority vote required. Recommended by the Souhegan Cooperative School Board (6-1) Recommended by the Souhegan Cooperative School District Advisory Finance Committee (7-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.06 per thousand for Amherst and $0.09 per thousand for Mont Vernon. ARTICLE 4 Shall the Souhegan Cooperative School District raise and appropriate one hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) for architectural and engineering fees to upgrade the learning environment and to increase the energy efficiency at Souhegan High School including the HVAC systems, lighting, building finishes, security, and classroom design? Majority vote required. YES 0
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Recommended by the Souhegan Cooperative School Board (61) NO 0 Recommended by the Souhegan Cooperative School District Advisory Finance Committee (7-0) Estimated tax impact of passing this article is: $0.07 per thousand for Amherst and $0.10 per thousand for Mont Vernon.
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14 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
More Letters
Shea for Amherst School Board To the editor:
As a long time citizen and parent of Amherst, I am endorsing Kevin Shea for the Amherst School Board. Kevin has shown that he is a rational, unbiased team player with the welfare, education and safety of our children and our community in mind. He has volunteered thousands of hours at the schools and throughout the community. Kevin stays constructive and motivated in spite of the negativity that has shown itself throughout this “campaign”. Kevin is a positive, giving person, an attentive dad and husband; a self-less community member as well as an Amherst fire fighter. Realizing the need to make sure that training is available to all of our teachers and school staff, Kevin is the first person to put the wheels in motion for CPR and AED training. These certification classes are intended as an ongoing offering that will enable our teachers to choose what is convenient for them. There is a high degree of interest in the CPR and AED courses for our citizens, the Amherst Fire Department (required) as well as the Lions Club, to name a few. Did you know that CPR training is NOT required of our teachers? I believe that every teacher should be required to be CPR certified. They spend the most time with our children and with one another. Time is of the essence when there is a medical emergency. There is one nurse on hand per school. This training would be beneficial among their colleagues and when that one nurse is tied up with a student or staff member. Kevin has started the ball rolling for funding of the text books. I am happy to donate or participate in fundraising towards the cost of the text books and cards. How about you? Amherst needs a “get it done” board member! Let’s get him “on board” the Amherst School Board so that, with his motivation, we can move forward, out of the rut and get things moving in the right direction.
Join Me in Supporting Martin Goulet for Souhegan School Board To the editor:
I have had the opportunity to work closely with Martin Goulet on the Advisory Finance Committee for Souhegan High School. As AFC members we are appointed and volunteer to assist in review of the proposed budget for SHS. Each member is assigned a category, meets with administration and school representatives to learn more about their requests and proposals for this category of the budget. We then come back to the AFC members and present clarification, information and recommendations. It’s has been an excellent means to understanding how the SHS budget is developed, molded and ultimately offered to the voters after the School Board then decides to alter it and vote on it. Throughout the process Martin has demonstrated his ability to dig deep into the numbers, ask questions of others, challenge outcomes and provide a multitude of details to back up his theories. I am confident these two years on AFC he has proven he has what it takes to become a board member who collaborates, communicates, and most importantly shows up prepared. I try to be an informed voter, which is a difficult hurdle with a busy work/ life balance. I attend board meetings, read minutes, and ultimately have volunteered to be involved on AFC. I often feel frustrated by a process that could be more fluid when elected members are not prepared or informed and operate with a hyper focus on a personal agenda. With a vote for Martin Goulet, I’m confident that his ability to provide preparation with detailed analysis and a view of the larger picture will assist in a board that can operate efficiently and collaboratively work together to solve problems with the interests of all stake holders involved. Ellen Grudzien Amherst
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT
Vote for Kevin Shea
To the editor:
To the editor:
Dave Chen has been an advocate for quality education in Amherst since before Souhegan High School was built. He was on the original team that created the vision of Souhegan High School and has promoted its excellence ever since. Dave has also championed transparency in school costs to make sure taxpayers understand what they are paying for and how it compares with other similar school systems. He asks many of the hard questions that we all deserve to understand the answers to. Dave has served our community in many ways for many years and I support his re-election to the Souhegan School Board.
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT
Join Me in Supporting the Re-Election of David Chen for Souhegan Cooperative School Board Once again the Souhegan Cooperative School District-Amherst voters get to choose one School Board member. Three years ago, the voters overwhelmingly elected David Chen, rather than me. Over the last three years, I have learned that Dave is a great husband, committed father, wonderful grandfather, dedicated friend, savvy businessman, and generous benefactor. For more than 35 years, Dave has served his community faithfully and with a tenacious commitment for excellence. Dave is well known and beloved by at least three generations of citizens in both Amherst and Mont Vernon. Despite some of the most wonderful people supporting me and my best efforts, I did not have a chance. I met Dave 5 years ago when I wandered into a Souhegan Advisory Finance Committee meeting. He and other members were concerned about the excessive cost, and making comments about what must be done to make our school better. I was so disturbed that this group was trying to make changes, and were not elected. I expressed my concerns that they were not who I was given a chance to select, and I did not appreciate this group. After this meeting, Dave immediately approached me and asked me to join this committee. I told him that I did not agree with him, and there was no way. Dave insisted that I should join the committee regardless of who I agreed or disagreed with. I felt this was extraordinary of Dave, and it demonstrated that he is committed to his beliefs and values, but will listen to someone he knows disagrees with him. Another member asked me to join. I agreed after the moderator interviewed and made the offer. The next two years on the SAFC were contentious, as I gave the Administration the benefit of the doubt, but Dave held them accountable. Two years ago, I was elected and joined the School Board, and it was expected that he and I would continue with the conflict. But something wonderful happened. We chose to listen to each other and what was said, not who was speaking. As I began to diligently perform the tasks as a School Board member, I began to see things for myself, and found more common ground with Dave. Dave has been respectful and considerate, yet a force with which to be reckoned. Dave has brought the budget concerns to the attention of the community, and continues to lead the charge to make our budget more efficient. Dave has supported Souhegan High School before the ground was broken. Not only does he want much more responsible spending, but insists on academic improvement and excellence that is second to none. Dave encouraged and supported the addition of Computer Programming classes, and is a champion with others, for STEM. As many of you are aware, Dave lead the arduous effort to raise nearly $900,000 for the Turf Field that we all appreciate. Dave lead the 1-to-1 computing effort, that provided laptops to all freshmen and sophomore students, with no additional cost to the budget. Dave initiated the effort to improve Safety and Security, ultimately to make our school much safer. Dave also wants Souhegan to truly become a “Destination” high school. Dave continues to be committed to making “Student Success” a top priority. Dave will continue to encourage Data Informed decisions and Smart Technology investments. While our enrollments continue to decrease, Dave is encouraging cooperation with other school districts to share certain high level classes, which may provide more class offerings for more students. Dave will continue to encourage Fiscal Discipline, resulting in a more efficiently run school that will improve our communities, property values, and is fair to all tax payers. I am grateful for wonderful neighbors who chose to engage in honest conversations regarding the challenges we face as a school community. Dave too wants an even greater Souhegan that is nationally ranked, and has a plan. Therefore, please join with me supporting the re-election of David Chen to the Souhegan Cooperative School Board. Faithfully, Dwayne Purvis Amherst
Chen Explains His Amendment and Report at Deliberative Session
Please join us in re-electing
David Chen
Souhegan Cooperative High School Board C. Roth “Corky” Benson Mike Boehm Frederic Rick Boswell Joanne Boswell Tibby Coffee Barbara Dalrymple Peter de Bruyn Kops Russell Demarest Pete diCicco Peter Eiche Shirley Eiche Linda Fraser Peter Hansen Pat Harrison Bob Heaton Dean Jackson Darrell D. Johnson Gilda Keefe Joe Keefe Stacie Kiczuk William Kiczuk
Sarah Lafleur Jerry McCabe Maggie McCabe Ingrid Michaelis Martin Michaelis Joan Miller Nadine Obermiller Liz Overholt Diana Owen Givin Owen Danielle Pray Dwayne Purvis Joe Raczek Ann Smallwood Donald Smallwood Oliver Stone Joan Stone Mark Vincent Sandra Yaffe Stephen Yaffe David Chen, Fiscal Agent
In the Town Elections, please vote for Kevin Shea for School Board. As a fellow Amherst volunteer/call firefighter, I get to see Kevin in action in a great variety of situations every month: meetings, training, first response for emergencies and social events. Kevin is consistently positive and hard working. Kevin understands the challenge of controlling expenses while creating a safe and challenging learning environment for our children. Kevin has a beautiful family and I know that they will help inspire him to make the right decisions for the future of our schools. Go Shea! Sincerely, John P. Turner Amherst
Bob Heaton Amherst
To the editor:
Karen Tuthill Amherst
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT
Support for Dave Chen
At the Souhegan Cooperative School Deliberative session, David Chen along with Dwayne Purvis presented their minority report. In contradiction to the majority report Chen reported and later elaborated that Souhegan HS is unranked in the state. If Souhegan wants to be a destination school it needs to be in the top five in New Hampshire. US News and World Report is an independent third party that has developed an algorithm and weighting for assessing High School’s performance, This is widely looked at as a valid ranking. Souhegan has never placed in the Gold, Silver or Bronze categories in this ranking. Gold, Silver or Bronze is usually top 18-20 of 92 public high schools in the state. These were points I made last year after a letter to the editor from the school board stated that Souhegan was always in the top 10. Hollis/Brookline and Bedford are always in the top tier and this puts us at a disadvantage for attracting families that move into the area. Math assessment is a critical factor. In the US News algorithm, math assessment plays a very high weighting in their ranking system. SHS students have low math assessment scores year after year. Over the last 5 years, the assessment test has change. NECAP testing was replaced by Smarter Balance testing and this was replaced by SAT. Souhegan’s math assessment test scores have been consis-
tently low through these testing changes. Administration said that it was a testing problem, but we would do better on the next generation of tests. In 2017, 44% of our 11th grade class was proficient using Smarter Balance. This means that 58% were not proficient or had not achieved mastery of the math concepts. Hollis Brookline was at 63%, Bedford was 58%. Administration then said that the SAT test would be better because students had skin in the game. There was modest improvement, but not as much by comparison. Incidentally, our math scores for 4 - 8th grade are consistently in the 80% proficient range. However, when tested in the 11th grade they drop into a much lower bracket around mid 40%. The most recent SAT test showed 55% proficient. Regarding the amendment to the budget for an additional $150,000 for security cameras Chen said the amendment was not mandating security cameras. It was intended to leave the option open for doing something as early as July 2018 and not wait until July of 2019. The decision was left to the data presented by the community council and review by the board. My intent was to lead people to understanding that safety and security was not something to be drawn out exhaustively. Implementing decisively is important. Delaying is incurring more risk.
Mont Vernon Mont Vernon Building Committee Supports Article 5 - Formation of Heritage Commission To the editor:
Almost three years ago, the Mont Vernon Selectmen, having concerns over the structural state and use of our Town Buildings, appointed a group of interested citizens to assess the condition of our Town Buildings and to develop a comprehensive plan for town space needs over the next 20 years. The buildings to be studied included the Town Hall, the McCollom Building and the Daland Library. The committee quickly realized that we needed professional help and at the 2015 Town Meeting, our request for funding to pursue an engineering and space utilization study for the three buildings was resoundingly supported. We’ve learned a lot over these past three years. We’ve learned that the investments made in the McCollom building were both wise and timely. We’ve learned that the Town Hall has fewer challenges than we feared and, with the right investments, can serve us well for many more years. We’ve learned that the town does have valid future uses for the library building once it is no longer needed as a library. Perhaps most importantly, we’ve learned that there are many foundations in NH who award grant funding for projects like the one in front of us as we work together to preserve these town treasures while making sure that they serve the town’s administrative needs. As the long-awaited report from the architect that we engaged to help us understand our buildings and the needs of the town administration wraps up, it is clear that we are at the beginning of a long road. There are several important warrant articles proposed for this year’s Town Meeting that set the foundation for that future work. Funding the project with limited tax burden is a top priority. That is why the Building Committee believes that forming a Heritage Commission (Article 05) is an important first step. NH Law allows donors to make tax deductible donations to the Heritage Commission with the knowledge that monies cannot be absorbed into the Town’s general fund. The Heritage Commission also provides an established overseer of monies, a definite advantage in applying for and obtaining grant funding. Seeding the Commission fund (Article 06) is important to demonstrate Town support and to assure that required matching funds are immediately available to support grant applications. Passage of these articles establishes a mechanism for donor funding and gives us our best chance for obtaining grants and donations for this project. The Building Committee also supports purchasing the historic 109-yearold building from the Sophia G. Daland Trust (Article 08). As our architect report indicates, the Daland Library can serve as an inexpensive and valuable space for Town office and much needed meeting space. It would also provide temporary office space during renovation of the Town Hall and McCollom Buildings at no extra expense to the town. Maintenance of the Library remains under the purview of The Daland Trustees until such time as a new library is built resulting in no up-keep costs to the Town. The Committee deems this a wise investment and the selectmen are in full support. We look forward to discussing these important articles with you at Town Meeting on March 14th. The Mont Vernon Building Use Study Committee Bill McKinney – Chairperson Randy Wilson—Vice Chair Vanessa Chavez—Secretary John Arico Nancy Lynch Cindy Raspiller Jill Weber Michael Warren
After the Election is over on March 13th and the votes are tallied, visit: www.amherstcitizen.com for complete results
www.amherstcitizen.com • MARCH 2018 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 15
An Invitation to Participate in Holy Amherst Resident to Run Boston Week Activities Marathon for Mass General
Nashua Historical Society Presents
AMHERST – The Congregational Church of Amherst UCC invites interested members of the community to join in any or all of the church’s Holy Week activities. At the Palm Sunday worship service at 10:00 a.m. on March 25, members of the Senior High Youth Group will present a passion play depicting the events of Holy Week. Other Holy Week services include a Maundy Thursday service on March 29 beginning at 7:30p.m., and an ecumenical Good Friday service at noon on March 30 at the
The program New England Lighthouses and the People Who Kept Them will be presented at The Nashua Historical Society on Tuesday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m. Everyone knows there’s “something about lighthouses” that gives them broad appeal, but their vital role in our history and culture is little appreciated. Our early nation was built on maritime economy, and lighthouses were part of the system that made that possible. Due to automation, traditional lighthouse keeping is a way of life that has faded into the
Milford United Methodist Church. On Easter Sunday—April 1—there will be two services at the Amherst Congregational Church, an informal sunrise service at 6:30 a.m. on the town common and at 10:00 a.m. a triumphant celebration worship service in the sanctuary. All are welcome to join in these opportunities for a meaningful spiritual journey. For details, see the church website (ccamherst.org) or Facebook page (facabook.com/ccamherst) or call the church office at 673-3231.
Amherst resident Shawna Sousa will run in the 122nd Boston Marathon on April 16th in support of Massachusetts General Hospital’s Emergency Response Marathon Team. Shawna will join an estimated 30,000 runners along the 26.2 mile course that spans from Hopkinton to Boston’s Boylston Street. The funds Shawna raises will provide critical support for emergency care, disaster relief and preparedness teaching and training at Mass General, efforts that benefit victims worldwide. The Emergency Response Marathon Team’s 2018
fundraising goal is $430,000. Shawna is running her first marathon on behalf of the Mass General Emergency Response team to show her appreciation for all the hospital has done for her daughter Cori, who is battling Crohn’s Disease. Shawna is incredibly grateful for the wonderful care Cori has received from all the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mass General. To learn more about the Mass General Emergency Response Team, please go to https://giving. massgeneral.org/boston-marathon/ emergency-response-team/.
Church Services Village Bible Church of Amherst 25 1/2 Middle Street Pastor: Mike Sacco Church Office: 673-4063 Website: www.villagebiblechurchamherst. org email: VillageBibleChurch@comcast.net Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 a.m
Good Friday Service on Friday, March 30th at 7:00 pm Easter Sunday Service Sunday, April 1st at 10:00 am. Nursery: to age 3; Super Church: ages 4 thru grade 7; All are welcome to join in the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Congregational Church of Amherst UCC
11 Church Street Senior Pastor Richard Leavitt Associate Pastor Maureen Frescott Church office: 673-3231 Web site: www.ccamherst.org
An Invitation to Participate in Holy Week Activities
The Congregational Church of Amherst UCC invites interested members of the community to join in any or all of the church’s Holy Week activities. At the Palm Sunday worship service at 10:00 a.m. on March 25, members of the Senior High Youth Group will present a passion play depicting the events of Holy Week. Other Holy Week services include a Maundy Thursday service on March 29 beginning at 7:30p.m., and an ecumenical Good Friday service at noon on March 30 at the Milford United Methodist Church. On Easter Sunday—April 1—there will be two services at the Amherst Congregational Church, an informal sunrise service at 6:30 a.m. on the town common and at 10:00 a.m. a triumphant celebration worship service in the sanctuary. All are welcome to join in these opportunities for a meaningful spiritual journey. For details, see the church website (ccamherst.org) or Facebook page (facabook.com/ccamherst) or call the church office at 673-3231. Sunday worship begins at 10:00 a.m. Fellowship time follows the service.
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The church extends a warm welcome to residents and visitors to the area to join in worship, discussion, service and social activities. Consult the website for current information, and check out the church Facebook page (Facebook.com/ccamherst) for timely updates and images.
Christ’s Church of Amherst 58 Merrimack Road Amherst 673-8292 www.ccnh.org Email: contact@ccnh.org
swimming skills in order to achieve success at his or her level of ability, make new friends and have a great deal of fun!
Swim Lessons at Baboosic Lake
Take advantage of our American Red Cross swim lessons. All instructors are ARC Water Safety certified. Swim lessons are scheduled for a 30 minute time period between 10am-2:00PM, Monday Thursday at Baboosic Lake.
Youth Programs Trail Trekkers - Spring 2018 Who: Grades 1-4 When: Every Wednesday 3:00 -6:00pm Where: PMEC Fee: $100R; $125NR
Hike, run, walk, explore, learn and be one with nature. Trail Trekkers is all about getting outside and connecting with nature while disconnecting from technology. Join us every week for a hike in the forest as we explore streams, brooks, and rivers. Enjoy the outdoors and be prepared to have fun! (*Transportation will be provided from Wilkins Elementary School to PMEC.) Last Day of each session (Apr18th & May30th) will be “Adventure Day” where we will venture off PMEC to a local destination. Stay tuned for more details! 1st Session March 21st - April 18th 2nd Session May 2nd - May 30th
Softball, Spring
Come join girls ages 5-16 on the softball diamond. Whether you want the experience of an instructional league or are ready for some fun and competition there is a spot for you on one of our many teams. ALL BUT T-BALL SOFTBALL***Registration by March 5 to avoid a $25.00 late fee. Teams will be formed and uniforms ordered Friday March 18***
Renew Church
Sunday Morning Worship is at 10:30am. Nursery Care is available for children under 3. Kids’ Connection Program 3 years to Grade 6. Youth Group meets on Monday evenings during the school year. Please visit our website and Facebook page for more information.
Messiah Lutheran Church
Rev. 303 Route 101 PO Box 488 Amherst, 673-2011 (office) 673-7707 (meeting and fax) messiahnh@comcast.net
St Luke Anglican Church
St. Lukes Anglican Church 3 Limbo Lane, Amherst Rev. Dr. Alexander H. Webb Church office: 672-6054 Website: www.st-luke,amherst.nh.us
All welcome and invited to attend Sunday Worship and Celebration of Holy Eucharist using the Traditional 1928 Book of Common Prayer weekly at 8:30 and 10:00 AM Church School at 10:00 AM Refreshment & fellowship following the service. Weekly Bible Studies: Tuesday Evening Soup & Study, 5;45~7:00PM Saturday Morning 11:00 AM ~ Noon.
Amherst Christian Church
Corner of Patricia at 134 Hollis Rd. Amherst
T-BALL SOFTBALL***Registration by April 2 to avoid a $25.00 late fee. Spring Softball Clinic at AMS in March!
Baseball, Spring
Batter up! Baseball is open for players 5-15 years old. Practices will be held Monday Friday between 5:30 and 7:30pm. Games will be held once or twice a week, depending on the league. LATE FEE DATES:
All but T-Ball *** Register by March 5 to avoid a $25 late fee. Teams will be formed and uniforms will be ordered Friday March 18.* T-Ball- Register before April 2 to avoid a $25 late fee.
Scout Programs at PMEC
We offer a variety of naturalist-led programs that your girl or boy scout troop can schedule at your convenience. Groups of all ages can come to the Peabody Mill Environmental Center to learn about science, nature, animals, the environment, and much more. Many troops tailor their programs to the pins and/ or badges that they are earning. Programs may be scheduled at your convenience, either after school or over the weekend. For inquires please call 673 6248 and speak to Amber Kear, or click HERE for more info!
STEM Programs Escape the Classroom (Grades 5-8)
Work together to solve clues and unlock the locks to escape the classroom. Each week attendees will learn about a cipher or codex to assist in their code breaking abilities. Teaches collaboration, critical thinking and develops social skills. Where: AMS Computer Lab 2 When: New dates coming in March! Fee: $15R/$20NR per session
JR First Lego League
30 Merrimack Road Amherst www.renewnh.com
Sunday: Worship Service at 10 am Monday: Young Adult Group for ages 18-25 at 7 pm. Meets at Extension Building at 5 Route 101A in Amherst Wednesday: Youth Group (Grades 8-12) at 7 pm Thursday: Team Night at 6:30 pm. Each Thursday everyone is invited to join as for prayer, worship, and other events.
St Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church
Worship 9:30 am Sunday School (Sept-May) 10:45 am
Amherst Recreation Programs and Events
Phone: 672-1541 Website: amherstchristianchurch.org Sunday Discipleship classes 9-10 Children’s class (Grades 1-6) 10-10:30 Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Small groups: 9 a.m. Small groups and youth meet evenings. Women’s ministries meet Thursday, 9 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Children’s church for ages 2 thru 5th grade during service Childcare provided for infants Office Hours: Tues – Fri, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Craftsman Lane, Amherst Pastor Peter Korthals 821-9891 pastor@stpaul-amherst.org
St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church welcomes you to join us each Sunday for our worship service. Our Sunday Service begins at 9:30 a.m. with our Sunday School at 10:55 and adult Bible study at 11:00. Nursery service is available. Please be our guest as we celebrate the Lord and all he has done for us. Pastor Peter Korthals 821-9891 pastor@stpaul-amherst.org
Church of Our Saviour, Episcopal
10 Amherst Street Milford Phone: 673-3309 E-mail: office@coosmilford.org Website: www.coosmilford.org Interim Rector: Rev. Hays Junkin
Sundays – 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist - 10 a.m. Choral Eucharist Wednesdays – 11:30 a.m. Lectionary and Lunch
New England Lighthouses Talk
Eucharist followed by bring-your-ownlunch (coffee provided) and a discussion of the week’s lessons. We strive to live the message of Christ, in which all are welcome.
Saint Patrick Catholic Community of Milford
Website: www.ccnh.org Phone: 673-1311 Website: saintpatrickmilfordnh.org
First Church Of Christ, Scientist 103 South St., Milford Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Sunday School: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Meeting: 8 p.m.- Child care available – Sunday and Wednesday Christian Science Reading Room 87 Union Square, Milford Mon. through Fri. 11a.m. - 3 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. to 1p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Last Sun. of the Month 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Email – readingroom@csmilfordnh.org Website – www.csmilfordnh.org
Unitarian Universalist Congregation
20 Elm St., Milford Rev. Barbara McKusick Liscord, minister. www.uucm.org or call 673-1870.
Sunday services are at 10:30am. Varied services are family oriented and include Whole Congregation Worship and Sunday Morning Circles for youth. Child care (infant to two years) is provided. See www.uucm.org for details and calendar. Fellowship hour follows the service. Family-oriented programming offers covenant groups for adults, High School Youth Group, Middle School Youth Group and Faith Formation for all ages. UUCM is a welcoming diverse community that participates in many social action initiatives. A FREE Community Supper is offered on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30-6:30pm. UUCM is located at 20 Elm Street and is handicapped accessible. The Rev. Carol Strecker is interim minister. More information at www.uucm.org or 673-1870.
past. Jeremy D’Entremont tells the history of New England’s historic and picturesque lighthouses primarily focusing on the colorful and dramatic stories of lighthouse keepers and their families. This program is free and open to the public through a grant from the NH Humanities, Humanities to Go! The Nashua Historical Society is located at 5 Abbot Street, Nashua. For more information, please call 883-0015 or website http://nashuahistoricalsociety.org/
St. John Neumann Catholic 708 Milford Road - Rt 101A Merrimack 880-4689 www.sjnnh.org Fr. Chris M. Martel
Weekend Mass: Saturday 5:30pm Sunday 8:00am & 10:00am Sep – May 6 p.m. Weekday Mass: 12:15pm Holy Days: 5:30pm vigil, 12:15pm and 7:00pm
Household of Faith
30 Merrimack Rd. Amherst www.hofonline.org
Sunday: Worship Services at 9:00 and 11:00am Monday: Young Adult Bible Study and Discussion for ages 18-25 (HoFX) at 7:00pm Tuesday: Shava Praise & Prayer at 7:00pm Wednesday: Middle & High School Youth Groups for 5th-7th graders at 7:00pm Thursday: Addiction Recovery Group at 7:00pm (HoFX)
Temple Beth Abraham 4 Raymond Street, Nashua 883-8184 Website: www.tbanashua.org Rabbi: Jonathan Spira-Savett Religious School Director: Noreen Leibson Religious School Phone: 883-9844
Temple Beth Abraham is a congregation serving Jewish families throughout Southern New Hampshire. Our members come from all kinds of Jewish backgrounds and we welcome interfaith families to our community. Shabbat Morning Services begin at 9:30 am. Shabbat Evening Services begin at 8:00 pm. If there is a change in time or a special service, it will be on our calendar. Evening Minyan (daily service) begins at 7:30 pm Mon-Thur. For more information please visit www.tbanashua.org or call 883-8184.
Free Community Supper
Please join us for a free community supper at the Congregational Church of Amherst on Thursday, March 8, 5:30 to 6:3o p.m. Free will offering appreciated. Please contactus: 673-3231 or info@ccamherst.org. Our mission is to provide healthy food and friendship for all in the community. We are a welcoming congregation of the United Church of Christ. Games and activities for young children.
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Get pumped for the FIRST® LEGO® League Jr. 2017/2018 season. In the AQUA ADVENTURESM Challenge, more than 40,000 children will navigate the uncharted waters of this important resource. We will start a program once we have 4-6 registered. Dates/Times TBD by group.
Health and Fitness Adult Tone and Balance 101
Are you ready to improve your health and enhance daily life activities? Start here with a low impact workout that includes strength training, balance and core work. Make muscle, burn calories and lose fat! Who:18+ Where: Peabody Mill Environmental Center When: Mondays 1-2:00pm Fee: $60R; $70NR
Power Barre
Power Barre is a ballet inspired fitness class that strengthens and tones the entire body. The hour class will be high intensity with low impact choreographed to fun music. NO dance experience is required and modifications can be made for all levels. When: Tu/Th at 8:30am Where: PMEC
Yoga for Adults
We offer 3 class options for adult yoga with long-time instructor, Leslie Formby. Tues @ PMEC, 10-11:15am Wed @ SHS, 6:30-7:45pm Thurs @ PMEC, 10-11:15am
TRUE POTENTIAL
is a program designed specifically for women which encompasses nutrition, result-based workouts and mindfulness. Most people who do not reach their true potential fail to do so because they underestimate their bodies’ abilities and accept medi-
ocre results....Join TRUE POTENTIAL, owned by Laura Kimball, and unlock your personal possibilities in an inspiring, powerful and supportive environment. Morning and evening options available
Mack Hill Riding Academy presents--Fitness by Riding, Especially for Women!
This program is geared specifically for women! Where: Mack Hill Riding Academy Fee: $160 (includes 4, 1 hour lessons
Zumba for Adults
Join the millions of people that have decided that having fun and working out are not mutually exclusive!
Pre School Programming I Love Nature
PMEC Coordinator Nicole has plans for taking children outside to explore and learn about the work we live in. Children will collect leaves, peer into ponds to look for tadpoles, take small hikes and learn through a hands-on approach. And please join us for our weekly hike that begins at 10:00am, directly after class. This hike is free of charge. Who: Ages 3-6 and their caregivers Where: PMEC When: Thursdays 9:00 AM- 9:45 AM Fee: R $15/NR $20
Tiny Toes Dance Lets get groovy!
Our Tiny Toes Dance program is for girls and boys ages 3-5. In this 4 week program, students will get an intro to dance. Where: Peabody Mill Environmental Center When: Friday mornings Fee: $30R; $35NR
Toddler Play and Stay
Come play, explore and make new friends at PMEC! Children 3 years and under along with their parent or caregiver are welcome to meet and explore creative play, both inside and outside. Who: Babies - 3yr old, Parent or Caregiver Where: Peabody Mill Environmental Center When: Friday mornings 9:00 - 10:00 Fee: FREE
All Ages Full Moon Hikes at PMEC
Come join us for a full moon hike led by a naturalist at PMEC! Fun activities along the trail for all ages. Who: All Ages. Families welcome! When: Times are dependant on season.
Amherst Makerspace-Info!
Amherst Makerspace is a collaborative project with the Amherst Recreation Department and the Amherst Middle School. An entire wing at the Amherst Middle School, is open to the surrounding communities during non-school hours. We provide the ultimate workshop for paid members, to use State Of the Art tools, share knowledge, work on projects, network, and build things.
Repair Cafe @ The Amherst Makerspace
The Amherst Makerspace is hosting people with skills, to help you repair a broken item that you may treasure or something you wish to save from the trash heap. We will have woodworkers, welders, electricians, computer techs and general handymen/women on hand to help you fix your item. Broken furniture, bicycles, toys, toaster, vacuum cleaners, lamps or electronics. If we can fix it...it ain’t broke! Where: Amherst Makerspace, 14 Cross Road When: 3rd Thursday of every month
Birthday Parties at PMEC
Create amazing birthday memories this year with a Birthday Party for your child age 3-12 at the Peabody Mill Environment Center! We have many themes to choose from or we can work together to tailor one just for your Birthday Girl or Boy. New themes and pricing structure for 2018!
Trips! Mom’s on Mountain’s (MoM’s) Ski Group
Dust off those skis, “Mom’s on Mountains” is debuting this winter! Once a month during ski season, Amherst Parks and Rec will be taking a group to a different mountain for a day of skiing and adult fun. Amherst Recreation will be providing transportation only. Your ticket to the mountain will need to be purchased on your own. Please Note: You do not need to be a Mom to participate! Dads are welcome too! Trip Schedule - March 14 at Okemo ($20R;25NR)
Trip- Monthly Lunch Trips
Let’s eat our way through New England this year with our Monthly lunch Trips! Join the Amherst Recreation crew as we depart for some local lunch outings. We will meet at 10:30am at the Walmart in Amherst, NH on the first Tuesday of every month for a different luncheon outing around NE!
Trip- Boston Flower Show
Join us as we head to Boston to see the Boston Flower show! We will depart from Amherst at 9am, and depart from Boston at 3pm. The trip price will include transportation and the ticket. Lunch is on your own. When: Thursday, March 15th (depart Amherst at 9am; Depart Boston at 3pm) Where: Boston, MA (meet at Birch Park, Amherst NH)
16 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
MARCH 2018 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Mont Vernon
Mont Vernon History Lessons A Four Part Series
Presented by the Mont Vernon Historical Society and the Daland Memorial Library
Important Articles on MV Warrant
January
To the editor:
The residents of Mont Vernon have an opportunity to start the long but essential process of renovating and repurposing three of the town’s most iconic buildings – The Daland Memorial Library, the Town Hall and the McCollom Building. At Town Meeting, residents will be asked to vote on warrant articles that support preserving these town treasures while serving the town’s administrative needs. Three of the warrant articles support a future library project. Although the Sophia G. Daland Trust, a private entity, owns the current library building, it sits on land owned by the town. Warrant Article 08 asks the town to purchase the historic 109-year-old building for the appraised value of $105,000. This “Gem on the Hill” plays an essential role in the comprehensive downtown plan and its purchase signals support for both the new library and the broader plan. The purchase is ultimately cost neutral because the Daland Trust plans to use the proceeds toward the new library project. The Daland Trust is committed to supporting the new library building as they have the old building. Even after the building belongs to the town, the library will remain in place, supported by the Daland Trust, until the new building is ready. There is a clear advantage to building a much-needed new library as the first step in the overall downtown plan. Not only would the unoccupied library building provide temporary office space during renovation of the Town Hall and McCollom Buildings, but there is already significant financial support in place for the new library. The site above Carlton Pond is town-owned and committed to the library, the town has built a significant Library Capital Reserve and the Daland Trust has committed substantial funding to the project. The request to release $45,000 from the Library Capital Reserve Fund (Article 07) to develop a conceptual plan and cost estimate for the new library is tax neutral. It positions us to bring the project before Town Meeting next year and allows us to seek donations and grants to support the balance of the project. Warrant Article 09 asks the town to continue building the Library Capital Reserve fund by adding $10,000. Should the Daland Trust match the Town’s contribution, as they have generously done so many times before, this may be the only investment we’ll make this year with a 100% return. Forming a Heritage Commission (Article 05) limits our future tax burden, because NH Law allows Heritage Commission contributions to be tax deductible to the donor and protected from being absorbed into the town’s general fund. Seeding the Commission fund (Article 06) is important to assure that required matching funds are immediately available to support grant applications. We look forward to discussing these five important articles with you at Town Meeting on March 14th. Jane King Mont Vernon Library Trustee
Mont Vernon Support Article 3 To the editor:
It is once again time for the Mont Vernon voters to consider a contract for the teachers at Mont Vernon Village School. The teachers are asking voters to support their upcoming 3-year contract when they vote on March 13th. This contract proposal is a step toward providing Mont Vernon’s teachers with a more equitable wage. What many voters may not realize is that Mont Vernon’s teachers are the lowest-paid in the area. Below is a table with salary comparisons for teachers with 19+ years of Service and a Master’s Degree plus 15 Credits, which represents a large contingent of Mont Vernon’s highly qualified teaching staff. The towns listed are those to whom Mont Vernon’s student achievement is most often compared, and whose student demographics are similar. School District Hollis-Brookline Milford Amherst Bedford Mont Vernon
Salary for 19 Years of Service and Master’s +15 $72,428 $76,055 $77,902 $71,581 $64,847
Despite the gap in salaries, Mont Vernon’s teachers continually give 100% to their students, as evidenced by the achievement of the current 6th grade. Mont Vernon’s 6th graders scored at the 88th percentile in Math, and the 96th percentile in Reading. These achievement scores are the cumulative result of good teaching and learning across these students’ elementary education. Mont Vernon’s teachers continually strive to provide the best education possible for their students, yet their families face the same rising costs as others in the region. One has to wonder how long Mont Vernon will continue to attract the caliber of teachers it currently enjoys. Beginning in the summer of 2017, Mont Vernon’s Educator’s Association worked with the School Board to prepare a contract proposal that reasonably begins to address and rectify the wage equity issue. This contract needs to be passed. We urge Mont Vernon voters to support Article 3 when they come to the polls on March 13th. Your voices will count. Communicate your support for continued high quality education for the children of Mont Vernon by voting “Yes” to the proposed contract.
A History of Hospitality: Welcome to Mont Vernon!
Journalist and MV Historical Society member David Brooks will educate us on the history of private and public schools in town, including the five one-room schoolhouses that were once here and the three separate private schools that have existed in the McCollom Building. Come see artifacts and pictures - and bring your stories or your kids' stories! Saturday, January 13th at 1:00pm at the Daland Memorial Library.
Former resident and relation of the Grand Hotel owners, Roberta Wilkins will be showcasing private items from her Grand Hotel collection along with historic items from the MV Historic Museum. Come learn about all the Mont Vernon hotels, the history of tourism and its impact on the town on Saturday, February 10th at 1:00pm at the Daland Memorial Library.
March
Mont Vernon History Lessons – #3:
Down on the Farm: History of Lamson Farm Lamson Farm Commission and Mont Vernon Historical Society member Zoe Fimbel will share stories about Lamson Farm and the Lamson Family who settled here in the mid-1700s. The historic farmhouse still stand and has many family pieces in it. Come hear the history of the Lamson family and how our town acquired it. Presentation will be on Saturday, March 10th at 1pm at the Daland Memorial Library. Registration required. Space is limited. Call 673-7888 to reserve your seat.
Customized Plaques – Ongoing Fundraiser
Consider ordering a customized house plaque for your home. They are suitable for old homes and new. You choose the wording. There are two shapes and three sizes available with the prices ranging from $40-60. Order forms available at the Mont Vernon General Store,
Daland Memorial Library, and Selectmen’s Office in the Town Hall. Payments need to accompany each order. Money raised will be used for ongoing preservation projects in the museum.
Membership
Please support the historical society and become a member. Annual dues per person are as follows: adults $20; 18 and younger $5; lifetime $200. Join when visiting the museum when open, or mail to the Mont Vernon Historical Society, PO Box 15, Mont Vernon, NH. Please include name (s), mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address. Checks made out to Mont Vernon Historical Society. Questions, contact Mont Vernon Historical Society President Eloise Carleton at eloise carleton@comcast.net; or Museum Curator Sandy Kent at slkent57@gmail.com.
Library Director: Bonnie Angulas Children’s Program Director: JoAnn Kitchel Email: dalandlibrary@comcast.net Hours: Tuesday 10-5:30 Wednesday 12-8 Thursday 10-5:30 Friday 2-6 Saturday 10-1 Sunday Closed Monday Closed
Spring Lapsit
Children ages 0-3 are invited to join Miss JoAnn on Thursday mornings in the month of March at 10:00AM for an hour of stories, songs, finger plays, and fun! Registration required. Space is limited. Call 673-7888 to sign up today! Session dates: Thursday March 8,15,22, & 29th.
Spring Storytime
Hop into the library for Spring Storytime! Miss JoAnn can’t wait to read stories, sing songs, and make crafts with everyone on Thursdays in March at 1PM. Children ages 3-5 welcome. Registration required. Space is limited.
Living History: Meet the Residents, Hear the Stories
Lamson Farm Commission and Mont Vernon Historical Society member Zoe Fimbel will share stories about Lamson Farm and the Lamson family who settled here in the mid-1700s. The historic farmhouse still has many family pieces in it. Come hear the history of the Lamson family and how our town acquired this farm. Saturday, March 10th at 1:00 at the Daland Memorial Library.
Long time Mont Vernon residents will be telling tales of life in town as they remember it. Come hear a variety of topics from some of Mont Vernon's oct0genarians and nonagenarians on Saturday, April 14th at 1:00pm in the Mont Vernon Congregational Church, located at 4 South Main Street.
Registration is Required. Space is Limited. Call 673-7888 to Reserve Your Spot. 5 North Main Street
Mont Vernon Congregational Church United Church of Christ 4 South Main Street, Mont Vernon Email address: montvernonchurch@comcast.net Web site: www.montvernonchurch.org Telephone: 673-3500 Pastor: Rev. Judie Bryant
Our regular worship begins at 10:30 a.m. each Sunday. Child care is available for children under the age of 4, while Sunday School is offered for children 4 and older. Our mid-week service, ReNew, is held each Thursday at 6:30 p.m., with the exception of the 3rd Thursday of each month, when it begins at 6:45 p.m. following our monthly Community Dinner. The Easter week schedule is as follows – Thursday, March 29, Tenebrae Service at 7 p.m. and on April 1, Easter Sunday, Sunrise Service at Grand Hill, 6 a.m., following by a pancake breakfast at the church at 8 a.m. Our traditional Easter Worship will begin at 10:30 a.m. Please join us for all, or any, of these offerings.
Community Dinner
Our next monthly free Community Dinner at Mont Vernon Congregational Church, 4 South Main Street, Mont Vernon, will take place on Thursday, March 15 from 5-6:30 p.m. Dinner is open and free to all, donations happily accepted but not required. On the menu for March: Corned Beef and Cabbage, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, Jello Salad, Soda Bread and St. Patrick’s Finger Desserts. Please join us. For more information call 673-3500.
Call 673-7888 to sign up! Session Dates: Thursday March 8, 15, 22, and 29th
Coffee & Books
Join us at the library on Tuesdays from 10-5pm for a cup of free coffee while you browse for materials. Coffee and cookies compliments of the Friends of the Library. This program will continue through the 1st day of spring on Tuesday, March 20, 2018.
Cookbook Club
If you love cookbooks, cooking, eating, (and talking about cookbooks, cooking and eating), this is the group for you! The Cookbook Club will choose one cookbook a month to read and meet at on the 3rd Monday of every month for a potluck meal at the library. Members are asked to pick one recipe and make it for the group to taste. Cookbooks available to borrow @ the library. Please be sure to let us know what your cooking:) New members always welcome! The February title is “Ciao Itali” Mary Ann Esposito. Group will meet on Monday, March 19th @ 6:00pm.
Scholarship Applications Now Available
‘The Skenderian-McCollom-Griffin-Foster Scholarship applications are now available at the Mont Vernon Town Hall, the Daland Memorial Library, the Mont Vernon Store and the Student Services office at Souhegan High School. These scholarships are awarded to Mont Vernon residents seeking full time post secondary education leading to certification, associate degree or bachelor degree. They are based on scholarship aptitude and need. They may be awarded to both high school seniors and continuing education students. Applications must be received by the Trustees of Trust Funds, Mont Vernon, prior to March 10, 2018.”
Business Directory More Mont Vernon Letters on page 14
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April
Down on the Farm: The History of Lamson Farm
Mont Vernon Historical Society
Daland Memorial Library News
Sincerely and Respectfully, Dawn Garneau, M.Ed 6th Grade Teacher, MVVS Mont Vernon Educators’ Association
• • • •
February
Get Educated: The History of Mont Vernon's Public and Private Schools
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