Amherst Citizen
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 1
VOLUME 28 – NUMBER 4
DECEMBER 2019
Postal Customer
THE
PRSRT. STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 10 Amherst, NH ECR WSS
www.amherstcitizen.com • DECEMBER 2019 •
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
Celebrating the Holidays in Amherst
Amherst Tree Lighting Festival Schedule – Page 8
n
ssist “E
ts a Studen
ours d 68 H
ger”–
of Hun
0 Page 1 success! E Outreach a R A H S fit ne s to be Festival of Tree
Amherst L
ions Club
hosts 39th
Annual Cra
ft Fair – P age 8
in December – Page 8 Congregational Church of Amherst
Ryan Parker joins SHS, Dec. 6th Jazz Night#1 – Page 10
Milford Rotary Club & Foundation At Frederick’s Pastries, 109 Route 101A, Amherst, NH
Amherst Garden Center & Farm to Market 305 Route 101, Amherst, NH, 673-3008 • www.amherstgardencenter.com
Amherst Tree Lighting
Sunny Valley Farms 42 Route 101A, Amherst, 882-6156 • www.sunnyvf.com
December 6, 7, 8, 14 ––– / –––
Beloin Christmas Tree Farm 125 Route 101A, Amherst, NH - Behind the KFC/Taco Bell
See Page 8 for Schedule
Bedford Fields 331 Route 101, Bedford, NH, 472-8880 • www.bedfordfields.com
Miracle Acres Farm 523 Mason Rd, Milford · (603) 765-2893
Enjoy A Stress Free Renovation with $1,500 in Restaurant Gift Cards!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Letters............................... 2 Town News............................ 4 Library.................................. 5
When you book your kitchen remodel by 12/31/19
Arts & Entertainment............. 6 Holiday Fairs & Events .......... 7 SportsFolio............................ 9 Schools................................. 10 Mont Vernon......................... 12 Next Issue: January 2020
$1,500 in gift cards are at restaurants of your choice.
Mon.-Fri 8:30am-5pm • Sat. 10am-4pm
384 Rte. 101, Bedford, NH • (603) 472-4080 • www.gscabinetry.com
2 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
DECEMBER 2019 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Letters & Opinions The Myth of Affordable Housing Dear Editor:
There are several developments proposed to the Amherst Planning Board (APB) under the Integrated Innovative Housing Ordinance (IIHO), two approved on Rt 122 for roughly 50 units of 55+ and mixed use. Three others are proposed for roughly between 100 units of 55+ and mixed use including agriculture, tiny houses and solar fields. Two of these developments are roughly ½ mile from the Historic Amherst Village (HAV). Local social media pages reveal these developments have polarized the town, with those in favor noting a state-wide need for affordable housing, and those against being called anti-development, snobs and even racists. APB has come under scrutiny for procedural meeting conduct and noticeable pro-development position, and Board of Selectmen (BOS) seem to lack enforcement of mandated impact fees. Most people I have talked to are like me. They moved or grew up here and stayed because of the small New England Town-like feel and highly ranked schools. I consider Amherst to be an affluent town, but not in the sense of economics per se. So often the discussion around development concerns low income and affluence, as if the town is strictly a financial inequity that needs to be corrected. I think this is wrong. Affluence to me for a town like Amherst means the high quality of life, the safety and security of knowing your police force, or knowing people at the local market when you go to grab lunch. There’s a value in that. Amherst is a historic town on a national registry, and this fact seems to be completely ignored. Most people commute to another town or state for employment. Is there a desire by residents to make Amherst a commercial or industrial center? Per the Amherst Town Master Plan’s Vision Statement: “Amherst will preserve and enhance its unique rural and small-town character. Amherst will guide development in a manner that is ecologically sustainable and protective of the environment.” Unfortunately, recent Town Ordinances contradict this Vision Statement. To correct basic disinformation being stated by Planning Board members and some Selectmen, there is no State or Town right for a land-owner to do whatever they want with their land. Basic zoning laws are in place to restrict residents. That is why we do not have racetracks, RV parks, campgrounds, strip clubs or a tavern downtown. So no, you cannot do whatever you want to do on “your” land. This is an utter lie and should cease in propagation, especially at formal town meetings. As background, the basic residential zoning is one house on two acres. There are a few regulations that allow for variations or waivers to this basic rule, 4.14 Workforce Housing, 4.16 IIHO, and 4.17 Planned Residential Development. These three ordinances provide methods to enhance and support large developments, clustered into smaller areas than the base zoning rules allow. At the November 20th APB Meeting, a member stated that Amherst does not need any more 3-4-bedroom colonials, it needs multi-unit houses, one- or two-bedroom houses and even high-rise apartments, including elderly housing. Amherst social media activity suggests there is a dire need for affordable housing in Amherst. Do we really? Do you know that not one of these developments has applied for permits under the Workforce Housing Ordinance(WHO) which would actually create “affordable” housing? One of the 122 Hollis Rd IIHO developments pricing starts at $469,000 (same developer for Boston Post Rd development). At the same APB meeting, the developer’s representative started their presentation by clearly stating that the development will be starter homes, but they will not be considered affordable housing. The Jacobson proposal originally had vague language about offering 4-5 units at “affordable” housing levels, but no details were provided. If affordable housing is so critical, why were no questions on costs asked by APB members who so adamantly state we need affordable housing in Amherst? In my opinion, APB knows under IIHO they can advertise density bonuses to developers, and housing or rental costs can’t be enforced unless the developer builds under the WHO. Why have no developers applied for permits under the WHO, becuse the sale prices or rent would be capped! In order for these developments to be approved under the IIHO, the developer must show a clear benefit to the town of Amherst. For these developments, they are using a smokescreen of open space that the town residents can use, they will even create parking lots so we can hike the trails, or picnic in the meadows. But what will Amherst really get? Jacobson will result in at least a 500% increase in daily traffic through the historic village alone, and with a similar or even greater number of units proposed in the Boston Post Road development, probably a similar number, so a 1000% increase in daily traffic through the historic village. With starter homes and rentals, come families, that means more children in our schools. The elementary schools are already at class size capacity. Interestingly, the BOS representative to the Planning Board repeatedly states with conviction that there will be absolutely no impact to the schools but has no data to support this statement as no impact studies have been performed and frankly dismisses the value of any impact studies. Planning Board members also say that the Middle and High Schools have room, so maybe they can limit the developments to families with only children of middle or high school age. Bottom line is these developments will have an impact on the schools, that is just common sense. Also, think of the increases in town services to support these developments, police, fire, EMS and public works. Then there is the unknown impact to the watershed and other environmental impacts. Are you ready to add to your already high taxes, because that is what we will also get, higher taxes to support the increases in services and schools? What Amherst will not get is affordable housing. Thank you, Timothy Kachmar Amherst
AMHERST The
Cliff Ann Wales
Publisher & Editor
To the editor:
In recent weeks, the Amherst planning board has been under assault by angry residents regarding the implementation of the Innovative Integrated Housing Ordinance (IIHO). In particular, the Jacobson development on Christian Hill Road, has spurred many contentious planning board meetings. Planning board members have openly displayed hostility and chastised citizens during meetings stating most citizens only show up to meetings when a development affects their neighborhood and then they do not know the procedures that the planning board uses to make determinations on housing developments. As an abutter to the Jacobson land, I would like to tell the planning board that we are showing up because of the ill planned and poorly implemented IIHO ordinance. The IIHO articles were voted into effect by residents but were so poorly worded that most citizens had no idea they were in fact voting to allow high-density, cluster housing. For instance, article 37: Workforce Housing, stated that they wanted to delete existing Section 4.14 Affordable Housing with a new section 4.14 Workforce Housing which would allow Workforce housing in zones where affordable housing is currently allowed and to allow the planning board to grant waivers for economic viability. I voted yes on this article without realizing I was in fact voting for mixed use cluster housing to be allowed anywhere in Amherst. I was recently told by a planning board member that they worked on the IIHO for four years and have gotten little thanks from the citizens of Amherst. Unfortunately because of the confusion surrounding the IIHO and its flaws, which have become evident at recent planning board meetings, no thanks are on the horizon. Despite the shortcomings of the IIHO, the planning board seems to be pushing it through no matter the negative consequences to the town and its current residents. I feel the IIHO needs to be put on hold until the public can be clearly educated on what it is and then be allowed to re-vote accordingly. Sincerely, Cyndi Carr Amherst
How Will Amherst Keep Traffic From Burying its Village? To the editor:
The Heritage Commission, dozens of citizens and multiple Departments have expressed concern over the potential traffic volume increase from merely one of the new developments slated for just outside the village; this one on Christian Hill Road. The Nashua Regional Planning Commission took a traffic count at Spalding Field on Christian Hill Road in 2018. They found an average of 106 trips per day or 744 per week. We all know the choking points- Clark School during drop-off and pickup as well as Spalding Field on Saturdays in the fall and spring or anytime there’s a youth tournament in town. Now: the estimated trip generation for the 64 proposed units of housing around 17 Christian Hill Road, according to the latest edition of the Institute of Traffic Engineers Trip Generation Manual, is 480 per day or 3,360 per week. [7.5 per unit daily] That’s an increase of 452% for a total of 4,104 per week or 586 per day. So we’re looking at going from 106 trips per day to 586 per day. But wait, there’s more1. History has shown that for houses in Amherst, the Institute of Traffic Engineers Trip Generation Manual rates were approximately 20% low. Given that Amherst is a rural community, with few jobs and many commuters, this is no surprise. The estimate with a 20% bump is 576 per day or 4,032 per week. That’s an increase 542% for a total of 4,776 per week or 682 per day vs the current 106 per day rate. 2. Further, this estimate is only for the housing and does not include any other development activity such as community gardens, Community Supported Agriculture, etc. NOW, under these estimates, imagine Clark School drop-off and pickup with Davis and Foundry relegated to one lane in am and pm … and Spalding Field on Saturdays in the fall and spring or at tourney time! How can the village infrastructure manage such drastic increases to its traffic flow from Christian Hill Road alone …? Further imagine the new traffic flow projections from the development slated for Boston Post Road, about ½ mile north of Wilkins School ... another 60+ units. Please let the Planning Board know your feelings on this as the project moves through their process.
Please direct your letters, views and commentary to the Editor, The Amherst Citizen, P.O. Box 291, Amherst, NH 03031-0291, or e-mail your submission to: news@amherstcitizen.com. We will attempt to run your letter as submitted (space permitting) providing it is signed and phone number is included.
CITIZEN Jim Wales
Advertising & Production
Published 12 times a year on the first Tuesday of each Month (Dates may vary near Holidays or elections.)
Subscriptions: $12.00/yr. 12 issues (prepaid) e y P.O. Box 291, Amherst, NH 03031-0291 Phone: 672-9444 Fax: 672-8153 e-Mail: news@amherstcitizen.com
for Purple Heart signage, light refreshments, historical displays, and door prizes. The Mont Vernon Historical Museum, located on the second floor of the Town Hall, opened for visitors. Service flags were posted along the front of the Town Hall. The Patriotic Purposes Committee would like to thank the Veterans and their families, Mont Vernon Board of Selectmen, Milford VFW-Harley Sanford Post 4368, Captain Josiah Crosby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Stars for Troops-Pease Greeters, Union Coffee Company, Mont Vernon Historical Society, Victorian Village Bakery, and Heathers Garden for their support. It was a special afternoon. For further information contact the Town Hall: 673-6080 or townofmontvernon@ comcast.net.
Mag Baker Mont Vernon
Amherst School District FY21 Budget To the editor:
As we close out November and enter into December, the board has been focused on developing the Amherst School District budget, along with other district wide decisions. Budget: We are pleased to announce that we have a final budget that we will be presenting to the community during the Amherst School District Public Hearing on January 8 at 7pm in the Souhegan High School auditorium. As we wait for the SAU budget to be finalized, we have voted and approved all other areas of the ASD budget. For FY21 we are currently looking at a 0.2% increase over the current default budget we are operating under (the default budget voted on last March). The proposed budget includes: • 2 additional teachers that are currently planned to be used in fourth grade but may be moved based on enrollment needs. • 3 part time staff who will be designated to support the Wilkins lunch/recess blocks. This additional supervision will allow additional play space on the playground and create consistent rules and expectations for all grades at recess and in the cafeteria. • Wall safety mats in the gym at AMS. • Replacement of furniture in 8 classrooms at AMS.
Start Times: The Start Time Committee worked diligently over the summer on how best to adjust school start times to meet the needs of all students. The final recommendation of that committee is to change the start times of the elementary and Middle/High Schools beginning with the 2021-22 school year, giving the districts ample time to plan, discuss and implement the changes. The recommendation, as the research shows, is to switch the Middle/High School start times to the later time, while starting the Elementary earlier. Exact times will be announced as the district continues to decide what will work best for all students, while attempting to minimize the impact on child care, sports schedules and various extracurricular activities. The SAU is committed to giving the community as much advance notice as possible and will communicate a decision when it is solidified. Consolidation- at the October SAU meeting the SAU board voted to put legal consolidation on hold at this time. During an exhaustive review it was found that partial consolidation would not solve any of the problems we had hoped to solve and full consolidation is not a viable option for all districts at this time. We suggest watching the Oct 22 SAU meeting which can be found on the SAU 39 website for more details on this decision. Citizens in Schools- Join the fun in a real-world robot command project with Grades 1 - 4! We’d LOVE some help with our final project week. Pick a day M-F, Dec 16-20th and a 45-minute block between 8:45-9:30, 9:3510:20, 10:20-11:10, 1:10-1:55, or 2:00-2:45. We will be in an easy access location for volunteers. Students will be connecting their robot tracks and running Ozobot robots over this “Ozoworld.” Contact Terri Behm at tbehm@ sprise.com or Gail Polio at gpolio@sprise.com to sign up for a block of time. As we approach voting season, we invite community members to reach out with questions, comments and suggestions. As a reminder we can be reached via email at ASB@sau39.org as well as during public session at our monthly meetings. Upcoming meetings:
• Dec 5 at 6pm in the SHS Learning Commons - Facilities planning discussion with both the ASB and the SCSB • Dec 9 at 6pm in the SHS Learning Commons - ASB Monthly meeting
Sincerely, Jim Hendrix Amherst
Respectfully, Amherst School Board Elizabeth Kuzsma, Chair Terri Behm, Vice Chair John Glover, Secretary Tom Gauthier Ellen Grudzien
2019 Scouting For Food To the editor:
Letters To the editor: The Amherst Citizen is eager to serve as a community forum. We welcome your letters, opinions, and commentaries and make every effort to run them in their entirety. We do reserve the right to edit. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the position of the staff of The Amherst Citizen.
Put New Housing Ordinance Thank you! (IIHO) on Hold; Educate the Public To the editor: The Patriotic Purposes Committee of Mont Vernon hosted a Veterans Day appreciation reception to honor Mont Vernon Veterans at the Town Then Re-Vote Hall. The informal occasion included a presentation by the Milford VFW
Scouting for Food was a great success this year! The communities of Mason, Wilton, Brookline, Mont Vernon, Amherst, and Milford generously donated more than 12,500 items of food and personal hygiene products that were distributed to Share in Milford and the Open Cupboard and the Christmas Store food pantries in Wilton. We significantly increased our collection of food by 30% over last year! Thank you to our generous citizens for donating - these items will go a long way in helping our neighbors who need a little extra assistance this winter! Scouting for Food is successful because of the organizations that volunteer and donate to the effort. A special thank you goes to Director Rick Riendeau and the Milford Department of Public Works who opened the DPW garage again this year as the collection, packing, and delivery headquarters for Scouting for Food. Another special thank you goes to Market Basket and Shaw’s Supermarkets in Milford for providing more than 350 banana boxes to pack the food for delivery to the food pantries and for helping to recycle the many plastic grocery bags that were received full of food. Also, a big thank you to Dunkin’ and Domino’s Pizza in Milford for their
ISSUE MONTH September 2019 October 2019 November 2019 December 2019 January 2020 February 2020 March 2020 April 2020 May 2020 June 2020 July 2020 August 2020
PRINT DATE September 3 October 1 November 5 December 3 January 7 February 4 March 3 April 7 May 6 June 2 June 25 August 4
Issue dates subject to change. Visit website or look to future issues for schedule updates.
Phone: 672-9444 Fax: 672-8153 e-Mail: news@amherstcitizen.com
NEXT ISSUE: JANUARY 2020 Deadline: 5 p.m. Thursday, January 2
support with feeding our hungry volunteers. And finally, a huge thank you to Hampshire Hills and Rick and Laurie Holder for loaning the trailer and tables for many years to carry boxes, sorting and packing food, and taking our final load of trash and recyclables! Finally, thank you to the Scouts and Girl Scouts throughout our communities who hung 5,000 door tags explaining Scouting for Food and then picked up the food donations. Without Girl Scouts Troops 10033, 10111, 12027, 12212, 12681, 12997, 51960 and 12687; Cub Scouts Packs 4, 260, 421, and 613; and Scout Troops 4, 10, 22, 260, and 1794, Scouting for Food would not be possible. All of our Scouts performed their good deeds and should be proud of helping their neighbors! What wonderful communities we live in which care so deeply for their neighbors and provide such great examples to our young people regarding how to be a community. Thank you again, John Orthmann, Milford Area Scouting for Food Coordinator
the Amherst Citizen CONNECT WITH US
How to contact us: Phone: 603-672-9444 Fax: 603-672-8153 Mail: PO Box 291 Amherst, NH 03031 eMail: News: news@amherstcitizen.com Ads: ads@amherstcitizen.com on the World Wide Web: www.amherstcitizen.com
© 2019 The Amherst Citizen. All rights reserved.
The Amherst Citizen assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements except as produced by the newspaper and provided it is notified within 48 hours of publication, then which the newspaper will reprint that portion of the ad where the error occurs in the next issue. Photographs or artwork submitted become our property and will not be returned unless requested in advance. The Amherst Citizen reserves the right to reject and not to print any advertisement or article it believes to be offensive, defamatory or in otherwise bad taste, and not in keeping with the focus of this newspaper. Articles, ads, photographs, artwork, and any other material herein, may not be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the publisher.
www.amherstcitizen.com • DECEMBER 2019 •
People, Civic Groups & Charitable Organizations
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 3
Obituary NANCY J. FULMER
Recognized for their volunteer service by Volunteer NH, from left, are Lucia Savage (for her husband, Neil Savage), Sheila Morris, Julia Tilton, Tricia Mellor, and Tara Pacht at the Spirit of New Hampshire volunteer recognition event on Nov. 13. (GSGWM photo)
Fifth Grade Girl Scouts Earn Bronze Award AMHERST – Anna Parisi and Hazel Schuft are fifth graders at Amherst Middle School and Junior Girl Scouts in Troop 20278. They have been awarded their Bronze Award. The Bronze Award is the third highest award in Girl Scouts and is awarded when Junior Girl Scouts complete a project that addresses an issue in their community. For this Bronze Award project, Anna and Hazel rejuvenated the
raised garden beds at AMS. They weeded the 16 gardens, painted a new sign, and painted kindness and happiness rocks. Some of the rocks read “Bee Happy” with a bee painting and others said “You Can Do It.” The sign had flowers on it and in the middle it read “AMS Garden.” The girls would like to thank the AMS Assistant Principal Mr. Haarlander along with their families.
Klunk Appointed President of New Hampshire Medical Society Chief Quality Officer for Elliot’s Ambulatory Practices is Society’s 188th Leader MANCHESTER—L. John Klunk, MD, has been named president of the New Hampshire Medical Society at the society’s Annual Scientific Conference, which was held Saturday in Bretton Woods. Klunk has practiced internal medicine and pediatrics at Elliot’s primary care practices in Raymond for 17 years. As chief quality officer for the health system’s ambulatory practices, he has tirelessly worked to assure a system-wide approach to consistent, evidence-based care for thousands of patients in the Manchester community. He will continue to serve on the medical society’s Governing Council and its Legislative Committee. As president, Klunk plans to focus on complementing the work done in healthcare, which accounts for more than 20 percent of overall health of a given population, by lending more weight to social determinants of health, including education, housing, lifestyle and the environment, all of which have significant impact on health. He will also support and advocate for fellow physicians in restoring joy in the practice of medicine, an issue compounded by time-consuming requirements for clerical and other non-medical tasks. A graduate of Jefferson Medical College, Klunk completed a residency in combined internal medicine and pediatrics at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA. He holds a degree, magna cum laude, in cell biology from Cornell University. Klunk is board certified in pediatrics and internal medicine. He resides in Bow with his wife and three children. Elliot Health System, a member of SolutioNHealth - Elliot Health System is a non-profit organiza-
Dr. John Klunk
tion serving the healthcare needs of the community since 1890. The largest provider of comprehensive healthcare services in Southern New Hampshire, Elliot Hospital, a 296-bed acute care facility and the first community hospital in the state, serves as the cornerstone of the health system. Elliot is home to Manchester’s designated Level II Regional Trauma Center, Elliot Breast Health Center, Elliot Urgent Care, a Level 3 Newborn Intensive Care Unit, Elliot Medical Group, Elliot Regional Cancer Center, Elliot Senior Health Center, Visiting Nurse Association of Manchester and Southern New Hampshire, 1-Day Surgery Center, Elliot Memory & Mobility Center, NH Arthritis Center, Elliot Retail Pharmacy, Elliot Medical Centers in Bedford, Londonderry, Hooksett, and The Elliot at River’s Edge. For more information about any of Elliot’s services, call 669-5300 or visit www.elliothospital.org.
Amherst Label’s Jess Ackerman Hopes To Deliver a Truckful of Love To CHaD in November MILFORD – The first adorable stuffed animals were placed in the little red wagon at the entrance to Amherst Label by the company’s president, Nick Calvetti, Amherst. He had gone out shopping the night before with his granddaughter to select just the right snuggle buddies for the kids at Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth (CHaD). Long recognized for his acts of kindness, this time Nick was inspired by an employee, Jessica Ackerman. has been at Amherst Label for four years. A year and a half ago, she and her husband Mike lost a baby to a rare heart condition. They will mourn their special baby forever. Jess writes, “I believe no parent should experience the loss of a child to hypoplastic left heart syndrome…. And I hope that by supporting CHaD, I can help other families in need. ”The three plump white toys were the gift of company president Nick Calvetti who returned from a west coast trip to find the project in the foyer. The next
day he had done his shopping. The plan is to collect new stuffed animals—with the tags still in tact—from employees, friends and local community members. Jess has a goal of 250, a number she chose randomly and can’t imagine in actuality. Picturing whether they will fit in her car or a coworker’s van is a little vague at this point but will crystalize as donations come in. Anyone who would like to help the cause is invited to drop off a new stuffed animal with tags in the entryway at Amherst Label. Jessica will make sure your gift ends up the the tiny arms of a child at CHaD. The Cuddle Collection Club was formed during a meeting between Jessica Ackerman, Angela Hornor, and Marketing Manager Ruth Sterling. There are about 225 little friends in the collection so far, so it is looking like Jessica will exceed her goal. Amherst Label is located at 15 Westchester Drive, Milford.
Girl Scouts Recognized for Volunteer Work in New Hampshire BEDFORD - Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains is grateful to be recognized by Volunteer NH for its many volunteer efforts. In ceremonies held Nov. 13 in Concord, the organization won the Volunteer Champion Award, which highlights the power of volunteers in the community. Accepting on behalf of the Girl Scout council were CEO Patricia Mellor and president of the Board of Directors for the
council Tara Pacht. Among the Individual award recipients was seventeen year old Julia Tilton of Amherst. Tilton was recognized with the Outstanding Service Award, Youth/Young Adult division for her hundreds of hours of service teaching young girls around the world how to recognize and mitigate the negative effects of social media.
Winter Branch Meeting at Black Forest Cafe – January 22 Media: Friend or Foe? Second Program in Civic Engagement Series
AMHERST – The Southern NH Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will hold its Winter Branch Meeting at The Black Forest Cafe, 212 Route 101, Amherst on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 5:15 p.m. The evening will begin with a social time. Each person may order from the regular dinner menu with separate checks. The program will begin with opening remarks at 6:30 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. Current members and anyone interested in learning more about the organization are invited to attend. If you would like to attend the dinner and meeting contact Program Vice President Susan Hoover at 603-213-6601; e-mail susnhoover@aol.com. For more information about the organization contact Diana Owen at 603-6737841. The program will be the second in the Civic Engagement Series planned for 2019-2020. The branch will welcome Michael Cleveland, who has over 50 years working as a newspaper editor and reporter, and Sarah Leonardi. Assistant Library Director at the Amherst Town Library. Media: Friend or Foe? will be the focus of their expertise. The program will be a panel format with Susan Hoover moderating. There will be time for questions. AAUW’s mission is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. The Southern New Hampshire Branch provides scholarships for young women who are pursuing college degrees with the intent to follow STEAM careers after graduation. This year’s recipient was a young woman who graduated in June from Souhegan High School. In addition, the branch hosts a book discussion group and Meet and Eat social evenings. On March 3, 2020 (snow date March 5), they will sponsor the annual Candidates Night giving the public a chance to meet and hear the positions of candidates running for offices on the Amherst ballot in March. Occasionally members also attend theatrical performances and see special exhibits at local museums.
Closing the Gender Pay Gap – Work Smart Online - FREE Course
AAUW has developed a program to help women in salary negotiation. Work Smart Online is a free course that helps women earn the
pay they deserve. To access the online course type salary.aauw.com in your search bar and begin preparation to negotiate a better salary and benefits. An easy, engaging e-tool will teach participants to learn the market value of their skills and experience, determine an equitable “target salary” based on skills and experience, and ask for the pay they deserve. In surveys nearly all participants reported having more confidence and better negotiating skills after taking the class.
Upcoming Book Discussions in 2020
Members plan to meet to discuss the following books on the dates below. Meetings are held in members’ homes and begin at 7 p.m. with a social time. The discussions begin about 7:30. BOOKS TO BE DISCUSSED: January 6: “Mr. Penumbra’s 24Hour Book Sale” by Robin Sloan March 2: “Closest Companion: The Unknown Story of the Intimate Relationship between Franklin Roosevelt and Margaret Suckley” by Geoffrey C. Ward April 6: “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens May 4: “Educated” by Tara Westover June 1: “The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women” by Kate Moore If interested in participating, contact co-facilitators Mary Marsh at amherst993@comcast.net, or Linda Pellerin at linda-82@comcast.net.
Candidates Night – March 3, 2020 (make-up March 5)
The Southern New Hampshire Branch will hold the Eighth Annual Candidates Night in the Barbara Landry Room at the Amherst Town Hall on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 5, 2020 will be the snow make-up date. All Amherst school and town candidates who have filed by the January 31 deadline will be invited to participate. AAUW is a non-partisan non-political organization that never endorses candidates or specific parties. The organization whose roots date back to the 1880s has two branches in NH. The Southern New Hampshire Branch, established in the 1970s, hosts a variety of programs concerning women’s education and equity issues that are open to the public. Members of the branch live in the following New Hampshire communities: Amherst, Atkinson, Dover, Exeter, Hanover, Manchester, Merrimack, Milford, Mont Vernon, Nashua, and Wilton.
FAMILY VISION CARE Dr. Philip S. Aubrey, OPTOMETRIST ————————————————— ————————————————— 81 Mont Vernon Street – Milford
673-1330
Evening and Weekend Hours Available visioncarenh.com/index.php
Nancy Jean team at Lois Lau(Short) Fulmer er. In 2017, Nancy passed away on moved to Amherst October 23, 2019 to be closer to famin Amherst, New ily and to enjoy the Hampshire after change of seasons. a prolonged battle Nancy loved with cancer. She gardening, golfwas born on Ocing, painting and tober 28, 1932, her pets. She was the daughter of a member of RedJohn and Gertrude lands Country Short of Rochester, Club for 40 years. NY. After her upShe was precedbringing in Roched in death by her ester, she attended husband; daughSyracuse Univerter Linda; grandsity. Upon gradudaughters Lacation, she became ey and Sara; and Nancy J. Fulmer a flight attendant brother Howard. for TWA, where She is survived by she met her husband, airline pilot, her brother Tom; two daughters, Lt. Col. William (Bill) Earl Fulmer. Susan (Jeff) Lynch of Dorset, VT They were married on October 29, and Tracey Fulmer of Amherst, 1955. Bill’s career in the US Air NH; son Jack (Darcy) of Glendale, Force took them not only around CA; grandchildren Charlie, David, the country, but also to Okinawa, Kevin, Ruby and Jude; and finally, Japan, where two of their children her best friend, dog Willie. were born. In 1977, they “landed” In her remembrance, please make in Redlands, CA, where Nancy sold donations to the Redlands Humane real estate, eventually joining the Society (Redlands, CA).
Amherst Man Recognised
AARP Honors Volunteers
MANCHESTER – AARP New Hampshire honored about 75 volunteers at a celebratory lunch held Thursday, November 7 at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester. Among those being honored was Bill Dunn of Amherst as Tax-Aide Volunteer of the Year. To find out more about AARP New Hampshire’s volunteers, activities, programs and local offerings, visit aarp.org/nh
New Year’s Day PJ’s Run
AMHERST – On New Year’s Day at 10AM in the village for the 6th consecutive year a group of hardy souls will run in their PJ’s to ring in the New Year and help local kids. The runners bring much needed PJ’s for area kids in need. Coffee, hot chocolate and cookies and donuts are provided to the runners/walkers or strollers. There is no defined distance, no times provided, no T-shirts, no medals, just a good time and donated PJ’s for kids gives us all a warm feeling no matter the temperature. For information contact Dave Salvas@ davidsalvas@aol.com
The Amherst Police Department is proud to present
BASIC PHYSICAL DEFENSE SYSTEM FOR WOMEN
The R.A.D. program is a nationally recognized self defense system specifically for women only. No prior training needed. This program is designed for women of all ages at no cost! Tuesday Thursday Tuesday Thursday Tuesday
Schedule
December 3rd December 5th December 10th December 12th December 17th
2019 2019 2019 2019 2019
5:00pm-7:00pm 5:00pm-7:00pm 5:00pm-7:00pm 5:00pm-7:00pm 5:00pm-7:00pm
@ The Amherst Police Department 175 Amherst Street Amherst, NH
Please Contact us for more information or to sign up: Captain Chad Blake cblake@amherstnh.gov (603) 673-4900
Get Ready for it
Officer Heather Blase hblase@amherstnh.gov (603) 673-4900
“Best of NH” Best of New England -NH Magazine – Yankee Magazine
NEW HAMPSHIRE
ANTIQUE E . CO-OP 1983 ST
INC.
GIFTS GALORE!
m c. o n e z i t i sr tc he CHECK am IT OFTEN!
CHECK IT OUT!
J
Storewide Holiday Sale! Find Unique Vintage & ntique Gifts Thank you for shopping local! Can’t decide? Get a gift card.
J
323 Elm Street, Milford, NH 603-673-8499 Open daily 10-5
nhantiquecoop.com
4 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
DECEMBER 2019 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Town News Bulletin Board Amherst Lions Club’s 39th Annual Craft Fair Amherst Lions Club’s 39th Annual Craft Fair will be Saturday, December 7th from 9AM-3PM at the Amherst Middle School, 14 Cross St., Amherst. Free admission and parking. The lions will feature over 100 fine crafters selected for variety and quality. A raffle for over 80 prizes and for a “Scratch Ticket” Holiday tree start at 2PM. There will be a Silent Auction held for high value items donated by local businesses. The Lions will have a food bar. Free eye screenings for children and adults from 10-12 AM. Free tote bags until they run out! All proceeds from this Craft Fair will be used for local charities.
New Hampshire Audubon Society December Events The Nashaway Chapter of NH Audubon welcomes the public to its free monthly programs at the Nashua Public Library, in the large meeting room. On Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at 7pm, “Background on Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count”. Nashua birder David Deifik will provide some history and perspective in preparation for this annual Audubon-sponsored citizen science project. For questions about our programs, contact us at HYPERLINK “mailto:nashawaychapter@gmail.com” nashawaychapter@gmail.com. The Nashaway Chapter of NH Audubon invites the public to participate in its 120th annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) on Saturday, December 28, 2019, for all or part of the day. We will be counting birds by day and tallying our sightings over dinner at 5pm in Hollis ($5 donation for dinner). If you are familiar with bird identification and would like to participate, either as a feeder counter or in the field, contact Richard Bielawski. Richard will coordinate coverage of specific portions of our 15 mile diameter count circle centered near the Nashua Hollis border. Contact Richard Bielawski at 603-429-2537 or HYPERLINK “mailto:rbielawski@mac.com” rbielawski@mac.com to register or for more information.
Bridges Hosts “Caregiver Through the Holidays” Seminar for Caregivers NASHUA — Bridges® by EPOCH at Nashua, a memory care assisted living community located at 575 Amherst Street, will host the following complimentary events in December. Caregiving Through the Holidays: December 9 at 12 p.m. — Be prepared for the holiday season this year with a valuable presentation on how to focus on the important things. Throughout the presentation, caregivers will learn tips and strategies to make holiday celebrations, traditions and travels merry and bright. A light lunch will be served. Early-Onset Dementia Support Group: December 9 from 4:30 to 6 p.m.; Dracut Senior Center located at 951 Mammoth Road in Dracut — Those with early-onset dementia and their caregivers are invited to connect with others who understand the challenges and emotions they are going through. Learn tips on how to manage the disease and prepare for future care. Dinner will be served. Caregiver Support Group: December 16 from 12 to 2 p.m. — Family caregivers are invited to take a break and receive expert advice and support from a dementia care professional who understands their unique challenges. A light lunch or dinner will be served. Caregivers are invited to bring their loved ones with memory loss to dine with Bridges® residents while they attend the group. Call 324-3250 for more information or to RSVP.
Amherst Garden Club Charitable Fund Seeks Applications for Grants AMHERST – The Amherst garden Club Charitable Fund welcomes qualified applicants for the 2019-2020 year. Proceeds from our fund raising activities as well as memorial gifts are added to our fund each year and then awarded to local community projects that are consistent with our mission. Our mission is to provide education, resources and networking opportunities for our members to promote the love of gardening, civic landscaping and environmental responsibility.
Recent grants have been awarded to the Women’s State Prison Gardening Program, Joshua’s Park and Community Gardens, The Amherst Town Library Gardens and the Amherst Garden Club Garden House Project and The Souhegan Valley Boys and Girls Club Edible Garden Project. Information and applications can be found on our website: www.amherstgardenclub.org. Questions can be directed to Sheila_steele@comcast.net. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis and reviewed when applications are received.
Subscribe Today! The Amherst Citizen e-newsletter. It’s free, private and secure. Sent to you by e-mail between print editions.
Christmas Gift-Giving in Old Amherst BY KATRINA HOLMAN The Christmas symbols and trappings we retain to this day (gifts, decorated cut tree, Santa) became tradition in this part of America in the middle of the 19th century. American Christmas seems to have been tremendously influenced by Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol, which was published in 1843, and Queen Victoria of England, whose German husband (married 1840), Prince Albert, enthusiastically carried on the Christmas traditions of his native country, especially the decorating of a whole evergreen tree. It was an engraving published in 1848 depicting the royal family of England standing around a decorated, candle-lit Christmas tree that really kicked off the popularity of the custom among ordinary people over there. And on this side of the ocean, even though German immigrants to Pennsylvania may have been the first to bring Christmas trees to America, it was the publication of the same illustration – minus royal trappings like the queen’s tiara turning them into an ordinary albeit well-dressed family – in December 1850 in Godey’s Lady’s Book that broadly popularized the Christmas tree. So how did Americans, in particular Amherst folk, celebrate Christmas before that? I was curious to see if there were any hints in the local newspaper. The third successive Illustrated page from the December 1850 edition of newspaper to be published in Amherst, the Godey’s Lady’s Book, popular publication for women. only one in the county at that time, was the Farmer’s Cabinet, founded in 1802. (Its found- January 1811, a bookseller in Portsmouth ader, Joseph Cushing, lived for a few years at 12 vertised his wares as suitable “Christmas & Main Street in the Village.) Well, Christmas New Year’s Presents” but his advert was datas a celebration was rarely mentioned in the ed 29 Dec., a little late for Christmas unless newspaper in the early years of the 19th centu- they counted all twelve days until Epiphany as ry. Private family celebrations were not news- Christmas (Portsmouth Oracle, 5 Jan. 1811). worthy, of course, but most storekeepers didn’t In January 1818, another Portsmouth store advertised “Elegant Christmas & New Year’s advertise to take advantage either. Presents” that surely were items for the wellPresents heeled, things to make even us moderns drool: Holiday gift-giving was one tradition that al- For the ladies, “morocco work boxes with inready had a foothold in our Amherst 200 years struments complete” and elegant wood boxago, although early in the 19th century it was es with lock and key, Chinese work boxes and customary to give presents for New Year’s rath- baskets, ladies glass desks, silver thimbles. er than Christmas. Not for January first, nec- For amusement, “Reeves’ best water colours, essarily, but for early in the new year. And the some with painting apparatus complete, … presents most commonly advertised in the city elegant French battledores and racquets with newspapers of Portsmouth, Salem, and Boston birds, skipping ropes, humming tops, puzzles of different kinds, chess men, checquer boards were books, especially children’s books. In Portsmouth, for 1804, a storekeeper pub- & men,” and various musical instruments inlished an advertisement under the headline cluding “one fine toned English guitar” and “New Year’s Presents” in which he promoted “one English made Eolian Harp” as well as mu“a beautiful assortment of Children’s Books of sic for piano forte and voice. And, of course, almost every size and price, from 5 to 50 cents Juvenile Books. (Portsmouth Oracle, 3 January each,” as well as “Silver Tooth and Ear Picks” 1818.) Somehow, I doubt many such high-end [have you, gentle reader, inherited one of those items made their way to the rural town of Amfrom a refined ancestor?] and Pens and Pencils herst. In Amherst, Mr. Boylston, who succeeded (Portsmouth Oracle, N.H., 31 Dec. 1803). The following year, in Salem, Mass., a storekeeper Cushing as publisher of the Farmers’ Cabinet advertised for sale: “Elegant New Year’s Pres- (and resided at 1 Carriage Road in the Village), ents: A great variety of Youths and Children’s sold books and stationery out of the Cabinet Books, instructive, moral and entertaining, Office and in January 1815 started advertising some with cuts, executed in a superior style” books for adults and children as “New Year’s (The Salem (Mass.) Gazette, 1 Jan. 1805). In Presents.” It was not until December 1823,
Town of Amherst, NH
BOARD OF SELECTMEN/AMHERST CONSERVATION COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to New Hampshire RSA 36-A:4 I, The Amherst Board of Selectmen and the Amherst Conservation Commission hereby announces to the citizens of Amherst the convening of a Public Hearing to take input on the acquisition of property by the Town. All interested citizens are invited to participate. Map & Lot: 008/ 002/022 Owner of Record: Dodge Road LLC Barbara Landry Meeting Room, Town Hall – 2 Main Street Monday, December 9, 2019- 6:30 PM Public Hearing to be an agenda item of the Board of Selectmen meeting held on the same date.
IMPACT
Holiday Show & Sale
Come enjoy our fabulous Small Works – BIG IMPACT show filled with affordable original art work from local artists just in time for the Holiday shopping season, now through December 26. Pick up original artwork for those who you think about over the Holidays. Gift certificates available. Works include: oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel, pen and ink, handpulled prints, mixed media, and sculpture. For details, call us at 672-2500 or visit: Creative Ventures Gallery www.creativeventuresfineart.com 411 Nashua Street, Milford, NH 03055
No Toaster?
Now we finally get to the educational part of this article, kids – by which I mean, learning about typical kitchen ware of the time. The report of a Christmas social event of 1842 with gift-giving, which evidently took place in the city of Boston, probably among a higher social class, was reprinted in the Amherst newspaper. “Not Bad. At a social hop, given at the West End a few weeks ago, the young ladies began to banter the young gentlemen on the subject of Christmas gifts, and extorted abundance of promises. On the party’s breaking up, the expected presents were again referred to, and the givers were particularly requested to remember, not to forget that the gifts were to be of no perishable or useless nature, as bouquets of flowers, baskets of confectionary, or any such trash, but serviceable articles that might be kept a long time and exhibited with pleasure and pride, as memorials of a happy evening. All of which was duly and truly promised. The gentlemen agreed on unity of design, and the result was, that on Christmas Eve, these presents were distributed. To one lady was given a wooden bowl and chopping knife; to another, a clothes-horse and ironing board; to a third, a dough board and rolling pin; to another, a dozen skewers and a larding pin; to a fifth, a pestle and mortar; to another, half a dozen pattey-pans; to another, a ruffling iron; to another, an egg beater, and so on to the rest – some useful article of kitchen furniture to each. The joke was taken in good part, and caused quite a frolic. It was proposed, in convention, that the various articles should be collected and presented to the first who might be so unlucky as to get married; but the proposition was voted down by an immense majority, and the further consideration of the subject postponed until after the ‘next engagement’ was out. - Bost. Times.” (Farmers’ Cabinet, 14 January 1842, p. 2.) Personally, I never have an objection to a perishable bouquet, no matter when! With that bit of 19th century humor and frivolity, I shall close and wish you all, faithful readers, Happy Holidays with laughs at your own gatherings.
Amherst Recreation Programs and Events
4 Cross Rd, Amherst, NH 03031 603 673-6248
Ski & Snowboard
Ugly Sweater Brewery Tour
Join Barley and Hops and Amherst Parks and Rec for a night of beer and holiday cheer! We will explore the history, brewing techniques and samples of local beers. Please don your ugliest Christmas sweaters and prepare for a day full of memories. Breweries TBA. Saturday, December 14th
Personalized Gift Cards
AND Map & Lot: 008/002/023
that the Cabinet advertised their Children’s Books as “suitable for Christmas and New Year’s Presents” but in the same, very long advert listed all sorts of books, including academic texts, and also “best writing and letter paper” and “Roger’s pen knives, warranted good.” I take that as a sign that in Amherst, as elsewhere in New Hampshire, the trend for Christmas presents was slowly growing. In Nashua, in an advert dated 29 Dec. 1835, one John Flagg advertised that he had “just received a doz. fancy Boxes [in a range of four different prices suggesting a variety of sizes] suitable for New Year’s presents” (Farmers’ Cabinet, 1 and 8 and 15 January 1836). Still the emphasis was on New Year’s presents – but maybe the boxes suggest gifts other than books.
AMHERST RECREATION DEPARTMENT Peabody Mill Environmental Center 66 Brook Road 603 673-1141 www.amherstrec.org Like us on Facebook
www.amherstcitizen.com/subscriptions.html
Small Works – BIG
Historic Amherst
The Amherst Rec Department is offering customized wooden gift cards for your holiday gifts for a limited time only! Add a personal touch to a boring gift card, or a unique tag for any gift. All proceeds will benefit the Amherst Makerspace.
Deck the Trails
This holiday season join The Amherst Parks & Recreation Dept and the Amherst Conservation Commission and help us decorate trees on the Joe English Reservation. This annual event includes prizes for the best decorations and most trees found.
The Elf Workshop
Come to Peabody Mill Environmental Center and make your holiday gifts to give your family members. We will have elves on hand to help out! You can make up to three different gifts that you can take home. Come have fun at the Elf Workshop and get ready for the holidays! Who: All ages When: Sun, 12/15. 2-4pm
For Adults: We have four Peak Ranger Passes that we are selling for $400 on a first come, first serve basis. Retails for $749. Call 603-673-6248 to purchase For Kids: Tuesday Night Lights Ski & Board Program. Call for availability 603-673-6248
Adult Programs Dance Around the World
Join us to learn dances from around the world and dive into cultures from different countries. Together you will learn basic steps to a traditional dance, sample food and meet others from the community. All dances can be modified to fit your ability. No partner needed! Saturday, 12/7
Create your Own Cutting Board
Come join us in the shop and build a custom wood art board. This sturdy board is great as a game board, serving tray, or a cutting board.This course will help teach the average woodworker with average materials and the humblest of wood shops create unique and eye-catching wood creations in your own basement or garage. Come join us as we explore and create wood art.
All Ages Ukulele Lessons
Find the Ukulele Class that is right for you! Class options have expanded and beginners and all ages are welcome. You will be playing in no time.
Youth Programs Mini Artist
Does your toddler love stickers, sparkles, or maybe drawing on the walls? Join our Mini Artist class
where participants and their caregivers will create new projects each week that you can take home and hang on the fridge! Monday, December 9th
I Love Nature
I Love Nature is for preschoolers who are itching to discover the world around them. Each class will include a craft, circle time, and an activity.
more challenging moves.
Mondays: 6pm-7:30pm Thursdays: 9:30am-10:30am
True Potential
TRUE POTENTIAL is a program designed specifically for women which encompasses nutrition, result-based workouts and mindfulness. There are classes Mon-Fri to fit your schedule.
December Theme: Birds, Birds, and more Birds
Amherst Makerspace
Basketball
What is Amherst Makerspace?
1st and 2nd Grade Basketball: This program focuses on the basics of basketball including dribbling, passing, and shooting. Start Smart 3--6 year old Basketball: This program is an opportunity for children to be introduced to the game of basketball with the support of a parent. Skills will build with every session.
Adult Exercise Barre
Power Barre is a ballet inspired fitness class that strengthens and tones the entire body. This 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. Tuesdays: 9:30am-10:30am Wednesdays: 6pm-7:30pm Saturdays: 8:30am-9:30am
Pilates
Pilates is a full body-conditioning program comprised of a series of approximately 500 designed movements performed primarily on a mat. This Pilates mat class fuses classical principles and a more contemporary athletic approach to produce noticeable results through
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. Our goal is to foster a highly collaborative learning environment that is excellent for individuals who learn best by doing and making, with like-minded people or self-directed.
Repair Cafe
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 0help you fix your item. Broken furniture, bicycles, toys, toaster, vacuum cleaners, lamps or electronics. If we can fix it...it ain’t broke. When: Third Thursday of every month, from 6-9pm
www.amherstcitizen.com • DECEMBER 2019 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 5
Town News AMHERST TOWN LIBRARY
Come and explore our collection of S.T.E.M.-based activity kits: Snap-Circuits, Citiblocks, Ozmobots, and more… we make them available, you enjoy an opportunity for make-your-own fun! Ages 7 and up. No registration required.
Amy Lapointe, Library Director 14 Main St., Amherst NH 03031 Phone 673-2288 Fax 672-6063 email: library@amherstlibrary.org web http://www.amherstlibrary.org REGULAR Hours: Mon. - Thur. 9:30 - 8:30 Fri. 9:30 - 5:00, Sat. 9:30 - 5:00 Sun. 1:00 - 5:00
BOOK CLUBS:
Activities in the Children’s Room December 2019 STORYTIMES:
Family Storytime Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:00am from September 3/4 to Dec. 17/18. For children ages 3-5. Younger/older siblings welcome. No registration is required. Little Listeners Lapsit Time Thursday and Friday mornings at 10:30am from September 5/6 to December 19/20. For children age newborn to 30 months. Older siblings welcome. No registration is required.
S.T.E.A.M. Storytime
Wednesday afternoons at 3:30 from September 18 to Dec. 18. This is a story program especially for our primary-school kids. Come on over to the library on Wednesday afternoons for a healthy snack, some stories, and a project/craft that explores some of the principles of the world around us. The middle of the week is a great time to come and ‘check in’ at the library --- We love to see you! For ages 5-7, younger siblings are welcome to come along... No registration required. For storytime details, please go online to www.amherstlibrary.org and go to the Children’s Room page, call us at 673-2288, or come on down to the Children’s Room and get a copy of our Storytime Brochure.
LITERACY BUILDING:
PAWS FOR READING with Brook and Monica FRIDAY, Dec. 6 and Friday, Dec. 20 from 3:30-4:30 Sign up in the Children’s Room for a reading appointment with Brook, our therapy dog, and her human, Monica. Brook and Monica provide a “judgement-free zone” for emerging readers and a welcoming audience for fluent readers who love to read aloud. Call 673-2288 ext. 751 to make a reading appointment or for more information. HOP INTO READING with Buttercream and Julia MONDAY, Dec. 9 from 3:45 to 4:45 Sign up in the Children’s Room for a reading appointment with our favorite bunny, Buttercream, and her friend Julia. Julia hopes to encourage literacy by working with Buttercream to provide a “judgement-free zone” for emerging readers and a welcoming audience for fluent readers who love to read aloud. Call 673-2288 ext. 751 to make a reading appointment or for more information.
DROP-IN STEM TIME on FRIDAYS:
Track Time! Friday, Dec. 6 from 3:00-4:30 Come on down to the library to explore our assortment of tracks---and vehicles to travel on them. Use the materials available to build structures and obstacle courses to make the adventure even more fun---the only limit is your imagination! Ages 3 and up. No registration required. Build It! Friday, Dec. 20 from 3:00 to 4:30. iPads and apps are great, but sometimes, children just need to build something with their own hands! Come on down to the Children’s Room, and let your child explore our collection of building materials. We have plastic tubes, marble racers, blocks, magnetiles, mobilos, lots of Legos, and more! Let’s see what we can build! For kids ages 4 and up. No registration required. Tech-Time! for Kids Friday, Dec. 27 from 3:00-4:30
Families Read Together-Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 6:30pm For children in grades 3 and 4 with a parent. Every month we get together on the second Wednesday of the month to discuss a book, have a snack, and do some fun book-related activities. Sign up now to join us--it’s lots of fun! This month we will be discussing Escape From Baxters’ Barn by Rebecca Bond. It’s a quick read, so there’s still time to get a copy and join us---call Miss Sarah at 673-2288 if you’re interested. Great Stone Face Book Reviewers Club – Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 6:30pm For children in grades 5 and 6. We get together on the first Wednesday of each month to snack and to share opinions about the books we’ve read. These books may well turn up on next year’s Great Stone Face list! Sign up now to join us---we have a blast!
Attention researchers of old houses & genealogy:
Historic Tax Invoice Records Now at The Amherst Town Library
SPECIAL PROGRAMS:
FINGER-KNITTING WORKSHOP w/ Miss Sadie— Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 3:30pm. Have you ever wondered how to knit without knitting needles? Come on down to the library, and Miss Sadie will show you. Yarn will be provided, so just bring your fingers! For kids 7 and up---please sign up online. GINGERBREAD HOUSE-BUILDING WORKSHOPS w/ Miss Sarah Thursday, Dec. 5 at 6:30pm Saturday, Dec. 7 at 10:00am and 1:00pm Come to the Children’s Room for a holiday gingerbread-house construction party! Families are invited to pool their creativity and make a graham-cracker gingerbread house for the holidays. We’ll provide the space, the graham-crackers, the frosting and the music. You bring a bag of candy to contribute to the pot-luck supply, and we’ll build some beautiful houses---join us to celebrate the holiday mood! Children of all ages are welcome with an adult who will help them to build their house. Space is limited, so registration is required.
SCHOOL VACATION PROGRAMS:
All vacation long: SNOWMAN ON A STRING CRAFT MONDAY, DEC. 23 10am to 3pm All Day Build-it! Stop in and spend some time building the construction project of your dreams with our large collection of Legos, marble runs, Magnatiles and more. For ages 4 and up. THURSDAY, DEC. 26 10am to 12pm Blocks and Toys! Come and play with our collection of toys and blocks. For kids of all ages. THURSDAY, DEC. 26 2pm Family Movie Matinee Bring your water bottle and a pillow. We’ll provide the popcorn. For movie details, call the library at 673-2288. FRIDAY, DEC. 27 10am to 3pm All Day Tech-Time for Kids! Explore our collection of S.T.E.M. based activity kits. For ages 7 and up. MONDAY & TUESDAY, DEC. 30 & 31 All Day HAPPY NEW YEAR Craft-closet Cleanout Craft!! Out with the old---it’s time to clean out some of our craft supplies---so come on down to the Children’s Room and help us celebrate by creating something original out of the variety of supplies that we will make available.
Amherst Conservation Lands – A Place for Birds in Winter to Survive and Thrive Springtime in Amherst lends itself to the choruses of spring peepers and woodfrogs calling from the wetlands. In the summer it’s easy to spot songbirds, chipmunks, and squirrels throughout town, while larger species like deer and fishers tend to quietly blend into our forests. The fall months have been filled with turkeys, and late-night visits from opossums. As Amherst rounds its way into winter there are new and different species to focus on. Winter wildlife can be seen in person or observed through a number of other senses both in your backyard and out on conservation land managed by the Amherst Conservation Commission (ACC). Maybe you’ve seen deer or mouse tracks in the snow? Or heard the distinctive slap of a beaver’s tail on a local pond as you’ve approached the dam? The varying habitats in town allow for many different species to be observed in a number of ways. One particular habitat, shrubby grasslands, totals over 250 acres in town and often gives winter wildlife watchers great locations to spot some otherwise hard to see wildlife. Shrubby grassland habitats in Amherst may support close to 70 species of wildlife, such as warblers, turkeys, foxes, New England cottontails, and bluebirds. Based on research and information from scientists, the ACC has been working on the management of the town’s grasslands and meadows. One part of this management effort is to maintain these habitats in ways to increase the local bluebird population and raise the expectations for the success of other species. Bluebirds are a charismatic species, and have begun to live year-round in Amherst. According
Heritage Commission
Sarah Leonardi (center), assistant director of Amherst Town Library, accepts historic “Invoice & Taxes” volumes from Will Ludt (R), chairman of Amherst Heritage Commission, and Katrina Holman (L), historical researcher who participated in inventory of Town Hall vault. Nov. 2019.
The archives of Amherst Town Library now hold nine historic “Invoice & Taxes” volumes of the Town of Amherst, N.H., covering the years 1835 through 1914, containing the inventories of taxable property with valuations and assessed taxes by individual taxpayer. These are a tremendously valuable resource for researching certain aspects of Amherst history, particularly animal husbandry and such things as the prevalence or scarcity of horsedrawn carriages, and for researching contextual genealogy (besides B-M-D) of ancestors who resided in Amherst. Sometimes the real estate valuation from one year to the next can serve to narrow down the construction date of a particular house. The poll tax in the tax invoices can function as a quasi-census of virtually all adult males (except for those exempt due to old age, insanity, or being pauper) as of April 1st. The Amherst tax invoice volumes now housed at the Town Library are: • 1835-1842: Taxpayers of whole town in single alphabetical list; inventory includes quantity and value of taxable livestock (equine, bovine, and sheep), and value of “stock in trade” (merchandise) and carriages. • 1843-1860: Residents in alphabetical list, followed by “nonresidents taxed as residents” (a small subset of all NR); with separate amounts for value of land and value of buildings; total acreage listed starting 1856 (very useful for determining size of a given farm when deeds neglect to include acreage). • 1861-1869: Residents 18611868 and residents & nonresidents 1869, organized by school district (geographical divisions);
• • • • • •
with separate amounts for value of land and value of bldgs. 1870-1876: Residents & nonresidents, organized by 12 districts; hogs added to taxable livestock. 1877-1885: Res. & NR, by district. 1886-1891: Res. & NR, by district. 1892-1900: Res. & NR, by district; fowls added to taxable livestock 1893. 1901-1909: Res. & NR, by district. 1910-1914: Res. & NR, by district. The livestock inventoried includes horses/ asses/ mules, oxen, cows, other neat stock, sheep, hogs, and fowls of certain ages.
These are original hand-written records, but they are duplicates. During these particular years of the 19th century and early 20th century, it was the policy for the Town Clerk to make two “fair copies” of each year’s “invoice & taxes,” one being the Selectmen’s copy and the other the Clerk’s copy. For some pe-
riods in this time-span, this resulted in two practically identical volumes; but for other periods, the duplicate records were not recorded in exactly the same format (for example, a pair of near-duplicate volumes may have a different starting year or different ending year). The most notable difference in some “duplicates” is that for a few years, the nonresident taxpayer records were separated into a different volume from the resident taxpayer records, which is why they are missing from a couple of the volumes that were transferred on loan to ATL. The complete set of tax inventory records, including earlier and later years, remains in Amherst Town Hall vault. These duplicate records were identified and cataloged as part of the complete inventory of historic records in Town Hall vault in 2017/18, an initiative of Amherst’s Heritage Commission under the leadership of Will Ludt, chairman. On recommendation of the Heritage Commission, a permanent loan agreement was made between the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Trustees of the Amherst Town Library, in order to make these duplicate records readily available to local researchers.
More Tax Records at the Library
The earliest surviving inventories of taxable property for all individual taxpayers of Amherst, N.H., are for the years 1801 and 1804-1819, which were recorded in Amherst Town Records Volume 2. These records are on microfilm at Amherst Town Library. Invoice & taxes for the years 1898, 1903, 1912, 1945, and 1953 are included with respective annual town reports, typeset. The invoice – now called inventory – of 1961 and that of 1966 were printed in respective annual town reports, without taxes. For further details on Amherst’s historic records, go to the Town’s website, under Boards & Committees select Heritage Commission, then click on “Historic Records in Amherst Town Hall Vault.” Information on the tax invoices starts on page 63.
Nine volumes of original, duplicate historic “Invoice & Taxes” records of the Town of Amherst, N.H., from 1835 through 1914, are now accessible for research at Amherst Town Library.
Friends of the Amherst Town Library December Artist Exhibit Features Drawings by Chad Zingales
to Pam Hunt, an Audubon avian expert, although most bird species are in decline throughout Southern New Hampshire, the bluebird population is actually stable or slowly increasing. Other overwintering birds around Amherst include varieties of chickadees, juncos, and cardinals. The Audubon Society can give you a great head start on identifying local birds at: https://www.audubon.org/ birding/identifying-birds. The ACC is currently undertaking a project with resident birdwatcher and ACC volunteer, Mark Worwetz to create bluebird boxes to help the birds survive the winter. Bird box construction and placement is critical to the success of this project. Town meadows were chosen specifically for attributes that will help these new boxes become winter homes for birds; meadows that are only mowed every two to three years contain tall grasses with seeds, and bushes with fruit held above the snow, which offer safe
sources of food and excellent habitats. Tree-swallows, which are locally in decline, use the same style of bird box being constructed, so the hope is to begin to attract these blue-backed species as well. Or, in the future, duck boxes placed in our wet meadows could attract yearround fowl. Hikers venturing out to the small meadows off Joppa Farm Road will see a few of these bird boxes placed strategically off the trail. Anyone out on a crisp, clear day can use the eBird Mobile app to report sightings of birds using these boxes. If this initial phase is successful, it is hoped that this project can soon be expanded to some of Amherst’s other meadows. If you’re interested in helping to expand the ACC’s bird box program, or participating in other ACC wildlife stewardship opportunities: please send an email to acc@amherstnh.gov. Happy explorations! FREE ACC trail maps are available at Town Hall.
The Friends of the Amherst Town Library welcomes Chad Zingales and his amazing drawings to the main floor of the Amherst Town Library during the month of December. The exhibit will run from December 2 to the end of the month with a reception for Chad on Sunday, December 8 from 2 to 4pm. All are welcome and the event is free to the public. Come in to experience his unique illustrations and meet the artist while enjoying light refreshments, no registration required. Chad is a Hollis resident that is very active around the Souhegan Valley community. He is a Halloween-enthusiast, musician, writer, stand-up comic, business owner and manager. When he’s not creating his original art and unique designs, he can be found producing, teaching, and performing “The
two amazing daughters who have changed his life in so many ways. In Chad’s spare time he daydreams about having more spare time. Stop in during opening business hours at the Amherst Town Library to view Chad’s works starting December 2 until the end of the month. Swing in on Sunday December 8 for a meet and greet with Chad from 2 to 4pm on the main floor of the library, no registrations is needed and open to the public. Friends of the Amherst Town Li-
Dark Crop” haunted corn maze at Lavoie’s Farm in Hollis and running his new performance venue Zinger’s in Milford. Chad is a creative soul with a passion for writing, singing, performing, as well as art. Chad’s creativity was evident as a child where he started playing the snare drum in fourth grade and drawing with his brother while listening to music. Back the Future, chicken wings shoved in a taco’s body, naps, and preparing for next year’s Halloween are some of Chad’s favorite past times. He lives with his wife and
brary is looking for artists who are interested in future exhibits at the library. We are still looking for someone to exhibit February 2020 and the later half of 2020. For information on exhibiting at the Amherst Town Library please contact Sharron April at FOLartists@gmail. com or stop in at the library for an information sheet at the circulation desk.
Please let our advertisers know that you saw their ad in The Amherst Citizen. It is their generous support that makes this newspaper possible.
6 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
DECEMBER 2019 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Arts
&
Entertainment
Exhibits
Forgotten Frank Lloyd Wright House Forever Preserved for the Benefit of the Public With the help of a donor, the Currier Museum of Art acquires a rare “Usonian Automatic” house by America’s most important architect.
MANCHESTER - The Currier Museum of Art has acquired a second home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Manchester, New Hampshire. It is one of only seven Usonian Automatic houses to survive. The museum now has two outstanding houses by America’s most important architect, making possible exciting new experiences for visitors. An anonymous donor has provided the funds to purchase the house. The donor states: “It is a real privilege to be able to help the Currier Museum of Art acquire this house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, known as the Kalil House. This is an important piece of American architecture and the public’s enjoyment of this house will be increased immeasurably by having the Zimmerman House just three doors down for comparison and contrast.” “This generous donation is a tribute to the philanthropy in our state, and serves an example for others,” says Steve Duprey, president of the museum’s Board of Trustees. “We will start building an endowment to support the new programs around the house. The museum’s Board of Trustees is now considering a capital campaign.” Together with the museum’s Zimmerman House, also by Wright, the new house establishes Manchester as a significant center of Wright’s residential architecture, while also offering immersive experiences beyond the museum’s walls. “Frank Lloyd Wright intended his Usonian designs to be affordable to the broader American public, but each is a distinctive work of art,”
Frank Lloyd Wright, Currier Museum of Art’s Usonian Automatic house (Toufic Kalil House), from the backyard.
states the Currier Museum’s director, Alan Chong. “Although they are about the same size and on the same street, the Zimmerman and Kalil houses are very different in character. Their architecture will inspire our audiences, not only fans of Frank Lloyd Wright, but participants in our programs devoted to Alzheimer’s patients, families affected by the opioid crisis, and military veterans.” Frank Lloyd Wright designed only a handful of houses in New England. With the impending sale of the Kalil House, there was a real danger that it might be altered, moved away, or even torn down. The house was built in 1957 for Dr. Toufic and Mildred Kalil, who followed in the footsteps of their friends and neighbors, Dr. Isadore and Lucille Zimmerman who had commissioned their Wright house in 1950. The Kalils should be credited with commissioning a striking house which is different in design and character from the Zimmerman’s residence. The
Zimmerman House was left to the Currier Museum in 1988 along with an operating endowment. The museum’s donor states, “I am particularly excited that the Currier Museum will be preserving and managing the Kalil House for generations to come. The work they have done with the Zimmerman House is outstanding and there is no doubt that they are the ones to entrust with this important piece of American history.” The Usonian Automatic design predicts many aspects of open-plan modern homes. Wright used contrasts of narrow and wide spaces, and light and shadow to enliven the small two-bedroom structure. It is built of concrete components made in Manchester and mahogany imported from the Philippines. New Hampshire residents as well as visitors from around the world will now have multiple doorways into the rich holdings of the Currier Museum – from its extensive collection of paintings and sculpture, to its special exhibitions, and now outstanding examples of American architecture.
2019 Annual Fall Art Exhibit at the Jaffrey Civic Center The Jaffrey Civic Center is celebrating the opening of the 2019 Annual Fall Art Exhibit. One of our largest exhibits of the year, the exhibit will include all types of mixed media including but not limited to: photographs, paintings, drawings, textiles, glassworks, paper works, pottery, woodwork and other 3D disciplines. A great place to purchase original art at reasonable prices for gifts for the holiday. The exhibit will run through December 23th. The exhibit and reception is free and open to the public. The Center is located at 40 Main Street, Jaffrey, New Hampshire (next to Library, parking in rear.) Like us on Facebook. Open Hours: M-F 10 am to 5 pm (closed 12 to 1 for lunch) and Saturdays 10 am – 2 pm, Closed Sundays
The living room and dining loggia of the Toufic Kalil House, Currier Museum of Art.
32nd Annual Messiah Sing! A wonderful opportunity to welcome the holiday season will
Symphony NH Kicks Off Holiday Season with December Concerts in Nashua, Manchester
be provided by the 32nd annual Messiah Sing! in Mont Vernon. Performances are scheduled for Saturday, December 7, at 7:00PM and Sunday, December 8, at 4:00PM at the Mont Vernon Congregational Church at 4 South Main Street. The performances are open to all at no cost and an opportunity for a free will offering to offset expenses will be provided during the concerts. For additional information please call Kathie Fitzgerald at 6732696 or visit our web page at: Messiah Sing - MVCC.
Celebrated Americana band Act of Congress joins orchestra in concerts featuring holiday favorites and more
Be Merry and Bright at the Music School’s Holiday Folk Concert CONCORD.—Celebrated folk duo Susie Burke and David Surette will join with sideman extraordinaire Kent Allyn for an uplifting night of holiday music and folk favorites, Sunday, December 15, at 7:00pm, at Concord Community Music School, 23 Wall Street in Concord, NH. In their annual Holiday Folk Concert, this beloved trio interweaves nimble guitar and mandolin playing, masterful bass and piano accompaniment, and heartfelt vocals to bring holiday sparkle to the Music School. The concert will feature a number of selections from the musicians’ holiday CD Wonderland, along with folk and acoustic fare from their standard repertoire. With influences and styles ranging from folk to jazz, Celtic to rock, blues to Broadway and beyond, Burke, Surette, and Allyn present seasonal repertoire with heart, flair, and energy.
Of their holiday CD, Boston Globe music writer Scott Alarik wrote, “Wonderland is a wintry gem, elegant as a Manhattan midnight, bewitching as hot buttered rum, and as warm and folksy as your grandmother’s old quilt. The trio moves gracefully among pop chestnuts, new songs, and ancient carols. Surette’s playing on guitar, mandolin, and cittern, is a marvel of melodic purity and ribbon-candy chordal color, lightly augmented by Allyn’s quicksilver piano. Burke’s twilight mezzo always puts melody before mechanics and heart before dazzle.” Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. For more information or to purchase tickets to the Dec. 15 concert, call (603) 228-1196 or visit www.ccmusicschool.org. For tickets and information about the other three concerts, visit www.burkesurette.com/ calendar.
Hallway of the Usonian Automatic House. Currier Museum of Art.
Barbara and Hal Danser Jewelry Exhibit at the Jaffrey Civic Center The Jaffrey Civic Center will host a joint contemporary jewelry exhibit by Jaffrey artists, Barbara and Hal Danser from Nov. 22 through Dec. 23. The exhibit will feature glass necklaces and earrings in addition to turquoise and sterling necklaces. Hal has been enticed by fused glass for the past twenty years. Through experimentation and learning, he has refined his style, focusing on the creation of unique, contemporary jewelry in the form of necklaces, pendants, and earrings. His jewelry is represented at a number of select galleries throughout the United States. Formerly a teacher at NHIA Sharon Arts Center, Hal currently teaches glass fusing at the Currier Museum Art Center in Manchester and in the Danser Art Glass Studio in Jaffrey. Barbara has been designing contemporary glass necklaces for eight years, creating interpretations of Earth and the Universe, as well as totally abstracted forms. Each design is a one-of-a-kind original.
NASHUA - Symphony NH ushers in the 2019 holiday season with holiday concerts for music lovers of all ages. The orchestra presents beloved traditional holiday fare with a twist featuring renowned Americana band Act of Congress, back by popular demand. The two concerts take place on December 7 in Nashua and on December 8 in Manchester. Leading the concerts is guest conductor Brian Eads, Music Director of the North American Tour of the Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables. Before the concerts, Symphony NH’s Friends of Symphony NH group offers another way to enjoy the spirit of the season with their Holiday House Tour 2019. Taking place on Saturday, December 7, 2019, and Sunday, December 8, 2019 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM both days. Visit the Symphony NH website for more details.
SYMPHONY NH An Americana Holiday with Act of Congress
Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 7:30 PM Keefe Center for the Arts 117 Elm Street, Nashua, NH 03060 Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 3:00 PM The Dana Center at Saint Anselm College (symphony hall debut) 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, NH 03102
Act of Congress:
Adam Wright Chris Griffin Tim Carroll, Jr. Connie Skellie Brian Eads, conductor Tickets: Nashua: $18 - $52 Manchester: $27 - $45 Students with ID and youth with adult receive free admission. Tickets may be purchased at www. symphonynh.org or by calling 603595-9156.
First Music Organ Concert Series
She is passionate about the reflective quality and transparency of the glass medium. Barbara has been a frequent visitor to New Mexico for twenty-five years, taking plein air painting groups to Santa Fe, Taos and Ghost Ranch since 1996 and occasionally retreating there to paint and sculpt. Her interest in Pueblo culture has enhanced her love of turquoise, one of her favorite stones. The Jaffrey Civic Center, is located at 40 Main Street, Jaffrey, New Hampshire, parking in rear. Information: 532-6527, e-mail info@jaffreyciviccenter.com.
NASHUA – The First Music Concert Series continues its six “mini” organ recital offerings in addition to the Sunday program music outreach. Recitals will be on the first three Fridays of the Advent and Lent seasons and will begin at 12:15 pm. Regional organists will perform FREE 30-minute programs on our 4,000-pipe, 1926 Anderson Memorial Organ—each designed to replenish the soul with beautiful music for the workday or to get the weekend off to a great start. Programs start at 12:15pm, with ample parking behind The First Church Nashua building. Handicap accessibility / elevator access is in the courtyard between old and new buildings. More information about First Music can be found here at: first-music.org
ADMISSION IS FREE
• December 6 JOSEPH R. OLEFIROWICZ The First Church (UCC), Nashua, NH • December 13 KENNETH GRINNELL Grace Episcopal Church, Manchester, NH • December 20 MICHAEL STEVEN LIANOS Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich, CT • March 13 WILLIAM NESS First Baptist Church, Worcester, MA (ret.) • March 20 EMILY ADAMS Main Street United Methodist Church, Nashua, NH • March 27 ERIC DOLCH St. Stanislaus FSSP Catholic Church, Nashua, NH
www.amherstcitizen.com • DECEMBER 2019 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 7
Merry Christmas HAPPY N E W Y EAR
Shop Locally • Support Area Businesses Fresh Cut Christmas Trees are here
THREE SIZES 5/6 ft, 7/8 ft, 9/10 ft
PLUS, SAVE 25% ON ALL DECEMBER BIRTHSTONES
THE 20% OFF* HOLIDAY SALE!
SPEND $500 OR MORE ON ANY PURCHASE AND RECEIVE 2 LIFT TICKETS TO SKI AT BRETTON WOODS NH’s Largest Ski Area and Named #1 in the East by SKI Magazine for Grooming, Snow and Scenery! *Applies to in-stock merchandise only. Some exclusions apply. Lift tickets are limited to 1 pair per customer, while supplies last. Offer valid 11/27-12/31/19.
3 Central Square • New Boston, NH 487-2239 • www.newbostonhardware.com
jonathansjewelers.com | 603-471-2828 | 460 Route 101 Bedford NH Serving Southern New Hampshire for Over 30 Years
GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH 100’s of Program Options for Mind, Body and Spirit
DISCOVER
GIFTS %
Po tte ry
LOCAL
0
$
membership join fee with a 5-piece nonperishable food donation from Dec. 15 through Jan. 12 at any of our 3 YMCA of Greater Nashua branches!
MERRIMACK YMCA | NASHUA YMCA | WESTWOOD PARK YMCA
FOR KIDS
FOR ADULTS
• • • • • • • •
• Swim Lessons • Group Exercise Classes Including Zumba, Yoga, and Functional Training • Wellness Classes • Adult Sports and Leagues • Music Lessons • Personal Training
Swim Lessons Progressive Dance Afterschool Care Preschool Classes Youth Sports and Leagues Martial Arts Y Achievers/Leaders Program Music Lessons
See a full list of the benefits of joining the YMCA at www.nmymca.org/JoinUs!
Je w elr y
H
AN
TE
D
1 00
rds a C
MORE THAN ONE WAY TO ENERGIZE.
At the YMCA of Greater Nashua we give you the support and encouragement you need to become a healthier, happier you. We offer a wide variety of programs and classes (many of them included with a YMCA membership), and a caring staff to help people of all ages, background and ability to develop a healthier spirit, mind and body.
DCRA
F
ys o T
Family run, Artist inspired. Every piece has a story and a little part of an artists heart.
We Cater!
30 Ash St Hollis NH 03049 www.wildsalamander.com
lls Hampshire Hi CLUB
ATHLET
IC
CAM PONEMPA
at Ham
pshire
Hills Ath
H
letic Clu
b
Hampshire Hills
ATHLETIC CLUB
Visit the store to see our full catering menu.
We Have Something For Everyone On Your List.
Holiday Gift Cards. Perfect.
hampshirehills.com | 50 Emerson Rd, Milford 673.7123
10 Main Street, Amherst NH 03101 603-673-2404 www.moultonsmarket.com
8 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
DECEMBER 2019 • www.amherstcitizen.com
2019 Amherst Tree Lighting Festival Schedule DECEMBER 6-8th
Holiday Fairs & Events German Christmas Market at the Wigwam
FRIDAY, December 6 AMHERST TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
6:00 - 6:30 pm @ the Town Common across from Amherst Town Hall Free event!
SATURDAY, December 7 LIONS CLUB HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR 9 am - 3 pm @ Amherst Middle School
FAMILY GINGERBREAD-HOUSE WORKSHOPS
10 am & 1 pm @ the Amherst Town Library Also offered on Thursday 12/5 @6:30 pm Space is limited, so advanced sign up is required. Register at www. amherstlibrary.org
GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
12 - 7 pm @ the Wigwam (on the corner of Middle and Cross Streets) Hosted by the Historical Society of Amherst
CRAFT FAIR & COOKIE SWAP
2 - 5 pm @ the Amherst Fire Station Hosted by the Girl Scouts of Amherst and Mont Vernon
PICTURES WITH SANTA
3 - 5 pm @ the Amherst Fire Station Hosted by Amherst Fire Rescue Free event, just bring your own camera!
Amherst Lions Club 39th Annual Craft Fair
SUNDAY, December 8 PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH MRS. CLAUS 8 - 11 am @ the Amherst Fire Station Hosted by Amherst Fire Rescue Donations accepted, no reservations needed
DINE at THE BISTRO, WINE CELLAR TOUR & ART GALLERY VIEWING
11 am - 1 pm @ LaBelle Winery More information at https://www.labellewineryevents.com/event-registration/?ee=1392.
HOLIDAY CONCERT
Given by the Amherst Town Band and SHS A Capella Singers 12:30 - 2 pm @ the Congregational Church of Amherst Free event!
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Given by the Choirs of the Congregational Church of Amherst 3 pm @ the Congregational Church of Amherst Free event!
SATURDAY, December 14 SING WE NOW OF CHRISTMAS:
Music of Harry Simeone, Bing Crosby, and Louis Armstrong 7 pm @ Souhegan High School Given by the Souhegan Valley Chorus Adults: $15; Senior/Students: $12; Children 12 and under are free. More information at www.souheganvalleychorus.org.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
TLF schedule: https://amhersttreelightingfestival.weebly.com/ A ATLF contact: Michelle Arbogast (michelleatlf@gmail.com)
Holiday Fair - Dec 7, 8:30am-2pm Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 20 Elm St, Milford MILFORD – Our gifted crafters offer unique, beautiful jewelry, and a variety of handcrafted gifts and holiday decor, plus locally made laurel and pine wreaths. The ever popular Ritzy Boutique has bargains on household treasures, pre-owned jewelry, gently used kids items and
Get into the holiday spirit while supporting Amherst’s Historic Society! Inspired by the Christkindl markets of Europe, the second annual German Christmas Market will take place December 7, 12-7pm, at the Wigwam Museum, 17 Middle Street, in Amherst. Come partake in some holiday shopping... Listen to Christmas carolers while warming yourself by the bonfire... Enjoy hot food, drinks, and treats- plus festive light displays, and more!
holiday items. In the Bake Shop, buy delectable baked goods, candy and jellies to enjoy or give over the holiday season. Everything is freshly made and delectable in the Cafe serving hot breakfast from 8:30 am and lunch from 11:30 am.
AMHERST – Join us Saturday, December 7th, from 9AM to 3PM at the Amherst Middle School, 14 Cross Road, Amherst. With over 100 fine crafters and their wares you should be able to find your Holiday gifts here! The crafters are selected for variety and quality. We will have both the cafeteria and the gymnasium full! For your convenience, parking will be available from/to the Souhegan High School, complimentary of Contemporary Chrysler, if desired. Parking and admission are free, and you’ll receive a complementary shopping bag to hold your purchases (until they run out). We will be selling raffle tickets for $1 or 6 for $5. Over 80 items will be raffled off at 2 PM. We will also have a raffle for a “Scratch Tick-
et” Holiday tree with $100 worth of scratch tickets! A Silent Auction will be held for up to 20 high value items donated by local businesses, including a granite bird bath from Swenson Granite! You will not be required to be in attendance to win. Winners will be called starting at 2:15PM. The Lions will be serving food, beverages, donuts and desserts. The Lions Club will offer free eye screenings for children and adults from 10-12AM. The screen is not an eye exam but detects potential issues with a recommendation to see an optometrist. All proceeds from this Craft Fair will be used for local charities. Don’t miss this opportunity to support your local crafters and Lions Club charities. See you there!
26th SHARE Christmas Fair Saturday, December 7 from 9:00-2:00
1 Columbus Ave, Milford, NH (behind Milford Ambulance Elm St.)
SHARE’s Festive Annual Christmas Fair will feature elegant handmade crafts from professional craftspeople. Get your Christmas shopping done here! Many unique items including jewelry. Lots of raffle items, including a girls and boys bike, TV, jewelry, pottery, beautiful gift baskets, and many gift certificates. There will be FREE cash door prizes drawn every hour. Complimentary photos with Santa! Plan on enjoying lunch with us. Delicious seafood and corn chowders, hot dogs along with homemade baked goods. Proceeds will benefit SHARE Outreach, a non-profit, non-denominational group providing food, clothing and financial assistance to people in need. The SHARE Center is well located, handicapped accessible, and has plenty of parking. For information about renting a crafters table contact SHARE at 673-9898.
December Events: Congregational Church of Amherst The Congregational Church of Amherst UCC invites members of the community to participate in a rich variety of Advent and Christmas events scheduled during December. On Sunday, December 8th at 3:00 p.m. the church will host a Christmas Concert featuring the Chancel Choir, led by Music Director Sara Phelps; the Bell Choir, led by Director Wendy Valeri; and instrumentalists, including Organist/ Accompanist Michael Havay. The concert, which will take place in the church sanctuary, is free and open to the community, and is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the holiday season. An Advent Vesper Service at 7:30 on Wednesday, December 11, will offer a quiet opportunity for participants to focus Advent, meant to be a peaceful time of anticipation and preparation, a time of joy and hope. Visitors are always welcome at the Sunday worship services led
by Senior Pastor Maureen Frescott and Associate Pastor Kate Kennedy. The services begin at 10:00 a.m. and are followed by a time of fellowship in the Community Room. The service on December 22 will feature the Church School Christmas Pageant. The church will hold three services on Christmas Eve to which all are warmly welcome. The 5:00 p.m. service is tailored for families with young children and for the young at heart. The Candlelight and Starlight Service at 7:00 p.m. is a spirit-filled candle-lit service which features traditional carols, special music, readings from the Senior High Youth Group and a Christmas message by Pastor Kate. At 9:00 p.m. the Traditional Candlelight Service of lessons and carols features music from the Bell and Chancel Choirs. As the sanctuary gradually fills with candlelight and the sounds of “Silent Night,” the birth of Jesus, the light of the world is proclaimed.
Memory Tree Tradition for 2019 Kicks Off Holiday Season AMHERST – The lighting of the Memory Tree is a 24 year- old tradition in our community sponsored by the Amherst Garden Club. The tree sits on the town common and is decorated with tiny white lights in remembrance of loved ones who have passed. The tree will be lit during the Amherst Tree Lighting Festival, December 6th, and will remain lit into the New Year. Names of the remembered are posted on a large sign beside the tree as well as in the Amherst Citizen. Each year money donated is used to fund a worthy community cause
that aligns with the mission of the Amherst Garden Club. The club’s mission is to provide education, resources and networking opportunities while promoting the love of gardening, civic landscaping and environmental responsibility. Last year, the recipient was the Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley. Thank you for your support of this tradition of remembering loved ones and supporting our community. Stop by, enjoy the beautiful tree and read the names of those remembered.
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
Village Bible Church of Amherst will host their annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on Tuesday, December 24th from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. All are welcome to join in the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Congregational Church of Amherst UCC
11 Church Street Pastor Rev. Maureen Frescott Associate Pastor: Rev. Katherine (Kate) Kennedy Church office: 673-3231 Website: www.ccamherst.org Church office: 673-3231
The church extends a warm welcome to residents and visitors to the area to join in worship, discussion, service and social activities.
Christ’s Church of Amherst
58 Merrimack Road Amherst 673-8292 www.ccnh.org Email: contact@ccnh.org Messiah Lutheran Church
Messiah Lutheran Church
Pastor Karl Hester 303 Route 101 PO Box 488 673-2011 www.messiahnh.org
Sunday worship with Holy Communion at 9:30 am with fellowship time following.
St Luke’s Anglican Church
St. Luke’s Anglican Church 3 Limbo Lane, Amherst Rt Rev. Alexander H.Webb, D. Min. Church office: 672-6054
Website: www.st-lukes-nh.org
Please join us on Tuesday, December 24th at 7P.M, for a service including Lessons & Carols and Holy Eucharist. All are welcome.
Amherst Christian Church
Corner of Patricia at 134 Hollis Rd. Amherst 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. 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.
Amherst Christian Church invites you to join us for worship every Sunday morning at 10:30 am. We are a growing, spiritual community, living our lives together in the love and service of the Lord Jesus Christ. We know walking into a church can be intimidating but we want you to feel right at home. Our worship service includes music, prayer and a message from God’s Word, in relevant and applicable terms. Programs are available during the service for children from 2 years to 6th grade. We observe the Lord’s Supper together as a part of our worship experience the first Sunday of each month. At ACC there are a number of small groups, bible studies and opportunities to serve within the body that are great connection points. Find out more at our website, facebook page or contact us at info@amherstchristianchurch.org.
St Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church
Craftsman Lane, Amherst Pastor Peter Korthals 821-9891 HYPERLINK “mailto:pastor@stpaul-amherst.org”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 HYPERLINK “mailto:pastor@stpaul-amherst. org”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 Rector: Rev. Hays Junkin
Sundays – 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist - 10 a.m. Choral Eucharist Wednesdays – 11:30 a.m. Lectionary and Lunch 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.
Mont Vernon Congregational Church
United Church of Christ 4 South Main Street Mont Vernon Church Office: 673-3500 (open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Web site: www.montvernonchurch.org E-mail: montvernonchurch@comcast.net
Please join us for Sunday Worship at 10:30 a.m. when Sunday School is offered for children aged 4 – 12 years of age. Our monthly Community Dinners are held on the third Thursday of each month from 5 – 6:30 p.m. There is no charge for this meal, although donations are welcome.
Saint Patrick Catholic Community of Milford
Website: www.ccnh.org Phone: 673-1311 Website: saintpatrickmilfordnh.org
All are welcome at St. Patrick! Weekend Masses @ 4 p.m. Saturdays, and 7, 8:45
and 10:45a.m. Sundays. Weekday Masses - Monday, Thursday, Friday 7:30 a.m. Wednesday 5:30 p.m. and 1st Fridays followed by Adoration 5:30 p.m. The church is located at 34 Amherst St. www.stpatrickmilfordnh.org or 6731311
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. Carol Strecker is interim minister www.uucm.org or call 673-1870.
Sunday services are at 10:30am and topics vary weekly. Sunday Morning Circles for children and youth, and childcare is provided. See www.uucm.org for details and calendar. Fellowship hour follows the service. 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.
St. John Neumann Catholic
708 Milford Road - Rt 101A Merrimack 880-4689 www.sjnnh.org Fr. Robert Glasgow
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 Phone: 883-8184 Religious School Phone: 883-9844 Website: www.tbanashua.org Rabbi: Jonathan Spira-Savett Religious School Director: Noreen Leibson Director of Family Engagement: Jessie Mocle
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.
www.amherstcitizen.com • DECEMBER 2019 •
SportsFolio
SHS Boys Cross Country Award Winners - Banquet
Unfortunately, our Most Valuable Runner Award winner - Kariso Anderson was not at the banquet and so is missing from the picture. The other award winners from left to right are: Drew Apple - Most Improved Runner Award; Ben Marcella - Outstanding Freshman Award; Peter Headington - Coaches Award; Thomas Headington - Leadership Award; and Ethan McFee - Coaches Award.
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 9
AMS Coaches Needed for Lacrosse
Boys & Girls Coaching positions for Lacrosse available at Amherst Middle School. If interested please contact Athletic Director Jeff Wing at, jwing@sprise.com.
Souhegan Girls Cross Country Awards - Banquet
Top Row - From Left to Right: Masho Primmer - Outstanding Freshman Award; Audrey Littlefield - Outstanding Freshman Award; India Jones - Coaches Award. Front Row - from left to right: Mackenzie Hayden - Coaches Award; Emma Herrero - Most Improved Runner Award; Chloe Trudel - Most Valuable Runner Award; Sophia Lunati - Leadership Award.
Samantha Swanbon Paces Team to Two Jr. Olympic XC Championships
(L to R): Asst Coach Michele Donoghue, Phoebe Faucher, Kylie Donoghue, Ava Bawell, Stephanie Svendsen, Sarah Bryson, Samantha Swanbon, Anna Bremmer-Depuy and Head Coach Tivan Casavant.
Winning Tradition Continues for AMS Cross Country Team “The Eagles” completed their season on a high note. Nearly 80 boys and girls came out for cross country this year; trained hard and completed at a very high level in every race. The result: On Saturday Oct 19th the Amherst Middle School Girls Cross Country Team won the Tri-County Cross Country Championship Division II, held at Nashua South HS/Mines Falls 2-mile course. 8th grader, Stephanie Svendson, led the team once again with a time of 13:18.76 followed by 7th grader Anna Brammer-Depuy 14:14.95 and 5th grader Samantha Swanbon 14:14.97, for 7th and 8th plac-
es. 8th grader Kyle Donoghue finished with a time of 14:37.42 and 7th grader Sarah Bryson with 14:41.02, completing the scoring in 11th and 12th places. 7th grader Phoebe Faucher with a time of 14:51.19 and 8th grader Ava Bawell with 14:54.78, also rounded out the strong team effort.
Amherst Patriots Players and Cheerleaders On October 11 The Souhegan Sables hosted a youth night for the Amherst Patriots. Local football players and cheerleaders were invited to lead the Sabers onto the field and also join them on the sidelines.
Souhegan Fall Sports Wrap-up
Ed Note: This is a portion of an article in the November issue of the Amherst Citizen which was inadvertently deleted. Our apologies to those students whose names were dropped. Their names and times are included above.
Souhegan athletics enjoyed some great successes this fall. The Girls Cross Country team finished 1st in both D2 and in the Meet of Champions as well as placing 3rd in the New England championships. The Field Hockey team knocked off the #1 seed (Derryfield) to advance to the State Championship game where they fell short to Hanover. Souhegan football, girls soccer and girls volleyball all advanced to post-season playoffs. The Boys Cross Country team fished 7th at the D2 meet and the
Please tell our advertisers that you saw their ad in The Amherst Citizen
“Walkie-Talkies”
Joseph Raczek, o.D. GENERAL OPTOMETRY CONTACT LENSES MEDICAL EYE CARE • New Patients Welcome • Convenient Hours • All types of Frames & Lenses • Most Insurance Accepted Book your appointment at www.drraczek.com
A program of the NH Wellpoint Foundation Souhegan Valley residents, 70 years of age and over, are welcome to walk for free (11 AM- 2 PM weekdays, 12/3/19 thru 3/31/20) at the amazing Hampshire Dome in Milford. Join many of your neighbors walking safely on a 1/5th mile track and socializing in the warmth of the facility. Call 673-8123 for details.
On November 17th Samantha Swanbon, 10 year old Amherst Middle School student and a top performer for the Nashua PAL Striders Cross Country Team, guided her squad to victory in the New England USATF, Jr. Olympic Cross Country Championship (9-10 old division) held at Deerfield Park in Smithfield RI. Samantha completed the challenging 3000 meter course in 12:19. Leanna Hunter, age 9, of Amherst also competed successfully. Then on Nov 24th, Samantha again led the team to 1st place in the Northeast Region USATF Cross Country Championship (9-10 age group) held in Sunken Meadow State Park Long Island NY. Despite 45* and rainy conditions w/ 25 MPH wind gusts; Samantha powered through with a surprising time of 11:42 for the 3000 meter course which borders the Long Island Sound. Nashua PAL/ Striders is a partnership between the Police Athletic League Youth Program and the Gate City Striders running club which provides an avenue for 7-18 yr. olds from beginner to accomplished, to experience structured training programs.
Dr. Joseph Raczek Dr. Sarah Radny 380 Nashua Street, Milford, NH • 673-7428 Community Based Family Eye Care Since 1986
Spirit squad finished 5th in the state competition. The Bass Fishing team was only ounces away from finals. Golf performed well this year and Boys Soccer improved as the season continued, and both teams look forward to strengthening their programs for next year. Athletic Director, Dan Wyborney, stated that in addition to successes on the field and court, many programs grew in numbers. This increase in Saber Nation will only lead to more successes in the future.
Hampshire Hills Making Changes MILFORD – Every year Hampshire Hills Athletic Club and Hampshire Dome facilities releases a list of additions or improvements planned for the coming year with many scheduled to continue into 2020. First is a rebuild of the restaurants which debuted past summer as The Hills on the Green this and now nearing completion is the new indoor restaurant The Hills, featuring family dining. Next is The Hampshire Hills Event and Function Center makeover with a large translucent lighted quartzite bar and gorgeous new interior. The huge capacity within allows a large variety of year-round events making Hampshire Hills one
of the largest centers of this kind in New Hampshire. Future announcements will be made noting improvements including all glass lockers, new programs, and new equipment. Hampshire Hills focuses on the health and well being of its members as well it encourages activities to help employees grow and build team spirit. For example, the staff has put together departments-wide pumpkin carving and halloween costume contests and offering cash prizes. This year, the team came together and donated their entire winnings directly to SHARE. Hampshire Hills is proud to employ such a team so committed to community outreach and support.
10 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
DECEMBER 2019 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Schools Spotlight on Learning: Souhegan Students Present Case Studies on Fictional Children in Literature Souhegan Freshman Volunteer at Local Establishments Souhegan freshman participated in their annual community service day volunteering their time at a variety of local community establishments including New Horizons Soup Kitchen, Joppa Hill Farm, the Animal Rescue League of NH, Henry Wilson Elementary School, and Opportunity Networks.
By Jeanne Sturges
Souhegan Students Volunteer to Assist End 68 Hours of Hunger
Close to 100 Soughegan high school students from the Football and Soccer teams spent Friday afternoon before Thanksgiving packing bags of food for 350 elementary-aged children living in the Nashua area. End 68 Hours of Hunger is a 100% volunteer-based organization that relies on the help of the community to make sure these students don’t go hungry over school weekends and long breaks over Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Childhood hunger is a national problem. It occurs when children receive insufficient food regularly and in many cases, missing meals entirely. After a while, these children also experience ‘fear of hunger’ that affects their behavior as much as physical hunger affects their bodies. This is a great way for our students to stay involved in the community with another event planned this April!
Souhegan High School Jazz Night #1 Features “A Tribute to Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn” The Souhegan High School Music Department will host the first Jazz Night of the year on Friday December 6, 2019 at 7:00pm. This year marks the 19th anniversary of the Jazz Night series of concerts hosted at SHS. To kick off our 19th anniversary season, we are proud to welcome “A Tribute to Ellington and Strayhorn” to SHS. On Friday, December 6th, NH native and pianist Ryan Parker joins the annual jazz night at Souhegan High School with a special presentation of the music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. With brand new arrangements, Parker weaves throughout the history of the famed collaborative duo, challenging the listener to a fresh approach and sound on classic jazz standards. Special guest vocalists, Chris Humphrey and Sharon Jones join the rhythm section of Parker, John Sullivan on bass, and Les Harris Jr on drums. Rounding out the group is Souhegan’s own music director Carl Benevides on saxophones.
Students in the News Union College announces 2019 Dean’s List honorees
SCHENECTADY, NY - The following area students were named to the 2019 Dean’s List at Union College. Comprised annually, the Union College Dean’s List honors students who have a grade point average of 3.5 for the entire academic year and meet certain other requirements. Julia Charest, of Mont Vernon; Charest is a member of the Class of 2022, majoring in Liberal Arts. Kathryn Osterholtz, of Amherst; Osterholtz is a member of the Class of 2021, majoring in Anthropology. Emma Steele, of Amherst; Steele is a member of the Class of 2019, majoring in Economics.
“A Tribute to Ellington and Strayhorn” will be joined by jazz ensembles from Souhegan HS, Londonderry HS and Milford HS . General Admission at the door is $10.00. Doors will open at 6:30pm. For event information, please contact Carl Benevides at cbenevides@ sprise.com.
CALLING ALL SOUHEGAN HS BAND ALUMNI !!
Amherst PTA Play
The SHS Band would like to invite all SHS Band Alumni for our Holiday Concert on Tuesday December 17th at 7:00pm. Please come and join us for our annual SLEIGH RIDE finale. Play just Sleigh Ride or play the whole concert - it is up to you. Email Carl if interested at cbenevides@sprise.com .
CALL FOR AUDITIONS!
Area resident named to the Dean’s List at Columbus State Community College
Zachary Dancoes of Amherst has been named to the 2019 Summer Semester Dean’s List at Columbus State Community College. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher and be enrolled for six or more credit hours.
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Inducts New Members
BATON ROUGE, LA - Elizabeth Maloney of Amherst at MCPHS University recently was initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.
As part of a recent senior English project students conducted a study of human character that combines literature and psychology to explore the question, “How do fictional children reflect or diverge from established child development theories?” In their final performance assessment students presented a case study of a child character to a panel of “experts.” Panelists included psychology teacher, Jess Tremblay, school psychologist, Traci Cote, social studies teacher, Kathy Maddock, and literacy coach, Jeanne Sturges. Students worked in teams to research an establish theory of childhood development and apply it to literature including Maggie, Girl of the Streets, by Stephen Crane, The River, by Flannery O’Connor, and A Company of Wolves, by Angela Carter. Groups explored the theories of Jean Piaget, Erik Erickson and Arnold Gesell. “The hardest thing is not necessarily the story analysis, but to have a depth of understanding of both the child development theory and the literature to be able to apply one to the other,” says teacher Gavin Sturges. “Creating a case file is also a challenge; the voice not only has to be appropriate to the task, but as a group they needed to create one coherent voice. They can’t divide and conquer. This is great preparation for expectations in college and the workplace where many writing projects are collaborations,” Sturges added. Prior to creating their case studies students explored the child characters in their literary context. “Crane’s intention is really to look at the impact of one’s environment and heritage on a person’s fate, so asking students to apply the lens of child development theory opens up a whole other perspective on the text,” says Sturges. Likewise, in The River, Flannery O’Connor explores a view of the secular world
through the eyes of a child. “How does a child understand notions of salvation and redemption?” Sturges asks as part of class discussions. Bevel, the child protagonist, understands from the adults around him that “dipping himself in the water will get him to the kingdom of salvation, to a place where he believes he matters, where he counts,” says Sturges. “But the grotesque nature of O’Connor’s story lies in the ironic twist that he takes adults in their literal sense.” When students further understand this dynamic through the lens of child development theory, they can bring another layer of interpretation to their analysis, Sturges explains. Each 30-minute presentation included five minutes to present their case study, and 25 minutes of Q & A. Students react positively to the panel presentations because the audience is authentic and the stakes are higher than just presenting to their classmates, Sturges says. Students are having to think on their feet, discussing their findings with panelists who bring a variety of perspectives and impromptu questions to the conversation. “There’s no escape. You can’t hide by saying just one thing. You’re in there for a good chunk of time and you have to make it meaningful.” Caption: Students present child development theory case studies to panelists during a recent senior English class performance assessment. Pictured: Sarah Bernyk, Emma Williams, Katie Rosse, Sophia Mendola, Emma Farnham, Elizabeth Powers, Rylie McCoy, Jaye Griffin, Sarah Geary, Megan Tupaj, Ian Doherty, Gracie McBride, Simonne Dodge. Jess Tremblay, Kathy Maddock, Traci Cote, Sarah Bernyk, Emma Williams, Katie Rosse, Sophia Mendola, Emma Farnham, Elizabeth Powers, Rylie McCoy Kathy Maddock, Jess Tremblay, Traci Cote, Jaye Griffin, Sarah Geary, Megan Tupaj, Ian Doherty, Gracie McBride, Simonne Dodge
Ryan Parker joins SHS Jazz Night in Tribute
Souhegan High School’s Hosting a Presidential Fair! With the NH general election right around the corner, we wanted to formally invite you to our Souhegan Presidential Fair run by the Souhegan Community Council. If you are stuck on who to vote for with the approaching primary, this event will help you make up your mind. At this event, we will have organizers from local campaigns ready to answer all of your questions that you have about their candidates. This fair will take place on January 8th from 3-4:30 in the cafeteria. We hope to see everyone there!
The Amherst Parent-Teacher Association is inviting kids and adults to be a part of a 68 year fundraising tradition. PTA. In April 2020, the PTA will present “Tuck Everlasting – the musical” for one of its premier fundraisers, which generates upwards of $15,000 for vital educational enrichment programs and teacher grants for Amherst schools. Auditions will take place from 1-5 p.m. on Jan. 5 and from 6-9pm on Jan. 6 at Clark Elementary in Amherst. Auditions are open for adults, as well as students in the third grade or older. Second-graders can showcase their skills if there is an auditioning parent. Family participation is welcomed and encouraged for this collaborative effort that benefits the school children of Amherst. Auditions are not limited to Amherst residents, and aspiring actors across the region are encouraged to attend. The all-volunteer production is also in search of a choreographer. The choreographer will have the pleasure of working with a multi generational cast to develop a fun dance element for Tuck Everlasting. There is opportunity for multiple people to co-choreograph since we are in need of an intermediate tap routine, a ballet, acrobatics/carnival feel, as well as over all polish on the music numbers. Want to be involved off stage? Contact us about backstage talent, set build, and costume work, photographer, organizers and much more. A full list of characters and more is available http:// amherstnhpta.org/2020-tuck-everlasting.html
CALL FOR DIRECTORS!
The Amherst PTA play is a long standing fundraising and theatre tradition in Amherst, NH. We are currently seeking enthusiastic and aspiring or experienced directors, musical directors and choreographers to submit show ideas and proposals for our 2021 spring show. Proposals for directing are requested no later than January 30, 2019. For additional details and information on submissions please visit http://amherstnhpta.org/directors.html
www.amherstcitizen.com • DECEMBER 2019 •
THE AMHERST CITIZEN • 11
Mont Vernon Village School Honors Veterans
The Mont Vernon Village School was proud to host a Veterans Day Assembly to honor and thank our veterans for their service. The assembly included readings, songs, and presentations.
School Subjects
SHS Ethics Forum students and their Saber mascot visited with grade 1 students.
SHS Students Celebrate National Letter of Intent (NLI) Signing Ceremonies for College Sports
Alex Stone Joins SAU #39 as Director of Information Technology AMHERST – Adam Steel, superintendent of schools, is pleased to announce the addition of Alex Stone to the SAU #39 staff. Stone will assume a position of director of information technology on Dec. 2, 2019. He brings more than 10 years of experience as a systems engineer and network analyst for both Dyn and Catholic Medical Center. “I’m thrilled to be joining the SAU #39 team. As both a resident and a parent of a student in the district, I feel this is a great opportunity to apply my passion for technology and serve the community. I look forward to working for the residents and even more importantly, the students of Amherst and Mont Vernon,” said Stone. Superintendent Steel commented, “Alex comes to serve our districts with a wealth of cutting-edge experience. Not only has he earned a reputation amongst his colleagues as a knowledgeable professional in his field, but also as a dedicated employee and highly engaged team member. I’m excited to have Alex
on board as a valuable member of the SAU #39 staff.” Anna Parrill, principal of ClarkWilkins Elementary School, says “The interview committee was very impressed with Alex’s varied experiences in the field of technology from small to large corporations. Alex wants the opportunity to work in the Amherst School District in order to have an impact on the students and their education. We are excited to work with Alex and look forward to the exciting insights and opportunities that he can bring to our district.” Stone joins Bruce Chakrin, current director of information technology for the SAU, as Chakrin prepares for his retirement in 2020. “Alex and Bruce will work sideby-side as Alex gets to know to the vast needs of all our schools in both Amherst and Mont Vernon. Bruce’s guidance will allow Alex a smooth transition into this role as Bruce plans for his well-deserved retirement next year,” says superintendent Steel.
Savannah Behn -- Lacrosse at Butler
Izzy Aiello - Lacrosse at UNH
Souhegan High School to Host Challenge Day By Jeanne Sturges
Souhegan High School is hosting the highly acclaimed program, Challenge Day, to further build community and empathy among students and staff. Using interactive and engaging activities, Challenge Day, both a non-profit organization and the name of its flagship program, works to “break down the walls of separation and isolation and replace them with compassion, empathy and caring,” according to ChallengeDay.org. Both Sheelu Joshi Flegal, Souhegan’s School Social Worker, and Jenn Huard, its Special Education Administrator, have participated in Challenge Day at other schools and say it’s a “phenomenal event that helps students and staff develop an understanding of what others may be experiencing,” says Huard. Souhegan has many programs and supports in place to create a caring, safe and inclusive school culture. However, like any high school, “our students face the same social-emotional issues of young people anywhere,” says Huard. “When we see a student with high absenteeism, we recognize it as a sign that they may not feel connected to the community.” Souhegan staff view Challenge Day as a powerful tool for breaking down the natural divisions among students. “Our high school does a nice job of trying to bring everyone together and break down those natural barriers,” says Joshi Flegal, adding that Challenge Day “helps continue the mission that we have for our school to bring kids together so it is positive, safe and inclusive to everyone.” “We are a high school that is proactive about making sure the issues that exist don’t overtake the positive culture we have here. Challenge Day takes these efforts to the next level,” says Joshi Flegal. Joshi Flegal explains that the program “allows young people to be in a safe place, stripping away the barriers of high school, like the groupings, so that they can discuss feelings and issues in a way that they may not normally.” Huard explains that the ability to show gratitude and empathy is a big part of what makes the program so powerful. “To have the opportunity to show gratitude to those who have helped them through the experience of being bullied, for instance, is empowering to students.” Joshi Flegal adds that bullying is just one of the topics that students bring. Peer pres-
sure, social issues, racism, loss, and academic pressures are some of the topics that students grapple with throughout the day. The 6 ½ hour program includes trust building and ice-breaking activities where participants step out of their comfort zones to recognize stereotypes and labels that may exist among them. One activity, for example, potently demonstrates to students not only that their experiences are shared by others, while some who may not are visually communicating signs of empathy and love. “The whole activity is done in silence, again, breaking down barriers and allowing people to be truly present,” Joshi Flegal says. “Respect trust and courage – Souhegan’s mission statement – is what it’s really all about,” says Joshi Flegal. While it is a day filled with risk-taking, connecting, and communicating, it is also fun, with laughing, singing, and games, which also serve to connect students. 100 Souhegan students and adults, including teachers, paraprofessionals, coaches, SAU administrators, and board members, will experience the program and will carry the message out to the larger community through their actions and behaviors, giving gratitude, showing empathy, perhaps making amends. After learning of the program in Class Forums hosted by Senior Leadership, students self-nominated or were nominated by teachers. The program’s powerful ideas have already spread among students, it seems, as one student shared with the Class Forum audience that she has brought the program’s message to her life here at Souhegan after
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT THIRTY-NINE Amherst, Mont Vernon, and Souhegan Cooperative School Districts A. STEEL CHRISTINE LANDWEHRLE Curtis Redd -- Lacrosse at SNHU Daniel Trezspacs -- Baseball at UniversityADAM of Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent Delaware
learning about it from a friend at another school. Challenge Day “calls upon kids to be leaders and to contribute to their own positive community,” says Huard. They are indeed challenged to “take a look at their actions and how they are affecting those around them,” she adds. Huard and Joshi Flegal recognize that when students leave the day’s program, they will be inspired, motivated and empowered to “Be the change.” They also realize that some students may need additional support and are prepared to provide follow-up counseling and support as needed. With over 1.5 million participants, and alignment to Social Emotional Learning outcomes, Challenge Day results include intellectual flexibility, leadership, self-confidence and increased social skills. “We have heard nothing but the highest recommendations from neighboring schools,” says Director of Guidance, Karen Chininis. “School leaders we’ve talked to from Bedford, Hollis-Brookline and Goffstown say that it is really a community-changing program in that the results are lasting,” adding, “Students report they feel the lasting impact of the efforts they make to bring positivity to their school culture.”
SNOW PLOWING ACCEPTING AMHERST HOMEOWNERS NEAR OUR ESTABLISHED ROUTES Ask us to plow and clear your driveway of snow this winter. We can also move snow away from garage doors foundations, or end of driveways, clearing entrances for better visibility and safety... Limited routes availabile. Schedule now!
Call/text: 603-345-2561 • email: sales@tsipave.com • Experienced & Insured
MICHELE CROTEAU Mckenzie Hayden -- Cross Country at Lafayette MARGARET A. BEAUCHAMP Director of Student Services Business Administrator
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICE HEARING
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT NO. 39 FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET HEARING AND MEETING THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019, 6:00 PM SOUHEGAN HIGH SCHOOL, AMHERST, NH This Public Hearing is being held for the purpose of presenting the SAU #39 proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2021. A School Administrative Unit No. 39 Board Meeting will be held immediately following the Public Budget Hearing for the purpose of voting final approval of the FY 2021 SAU #39 Budget as required by RSA 194-C:10 and to transact any other necessary and appropriate business. SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT NO. 39 BUDGET FY21 Proposed Budget December 19, 2019 Revenues
Revenue Source
FY20 Voted
FY21 Proposed
Amherst
$1,296,697
$1,456,216
Mont Vernon
$183,212
$210,797
Souhegan Cooperative
$824,063
$847,609
$15,455
$18,735
$18,800 $2,338,227
$18,100 $2,551,457
FY20 Voted
FY21 Proposed
$30,320
$32,446
$674,041
$835,416
Business Office
$815,193
$719,255
Special Education Office
$354,970
$310,130
Building Operation & Maintenance
$177,944
$189,938
Technology
$159,461
$335,496
School Nutrition Services
$107,498
$110,676
$18,800
$18,100
$2,338,227
$2,551,457
$2,338,227
$2,551,457
$0.00
$0.00
Local Support
Unassigned Fund Balance ERate Total Revenue Expenditures
Expenditure Category SAU Board Services Office of the Superintendent Business Office & Support Services
ERate
Total Expenditures Check Figure Variance
1 School Street P.O. Box 849 Amherst, NH 03031-0849
Phone: 603-673-2690 Fax: 603-672-1786
12 • THE AMHERST CITIZEN •
DECEMBER 2019 • www.amherstcitizen.com
Mont Vernon Daland Memorial Library News
32nd Annual Messiah Sing! Concerts in Mont Vernon A wonderful opportunity to welcome the holiday season will be provided by the 32nd annual Messiah Sing! in Mont Vernon. Performances are scheduled for Saturday, December 7, at 7:00PM and Sunday, December 8, at 4:00PM at the Mont Vernon Congregational Church at 4 South Main Street. The Messiah Sing! tradition was begun by a small group of very courageous church members and their choir director who recruited their friends and persuaded their neighbors to join in the fun the first year. It has grown to include as many as
125 chorus members from 21 communities and an outstanding small professional orchestra has been added. The trumpet and timpani surely add to the thrill of the performances. We have a new director this year, Dr. Heidi Welch. The performances are open to all at no cost and an opportunity for a free will offering to offset expenses will be provided during the concerts. For additional information please call Kathie Fitzgerald at 673-2696 or visit our web page at: Messiah Sing - MVCC.
Members of the historical society will gather on Friday, December 6 at the Mont Vernon Village School and decorate a Christmas Tree. In the evening, Santa will sit in the chilly museum to meet his fan club from 6-7:30 p.m. The museum is located on the second floor of the Town Hall. No heat so bundle up! Then on Saturday, December 7, the historical society’s decorated tree and others will be auctioned during Breakfast With Santa held at MVVS. All the proceeds will benefit the PTA.
Next Meeting – January 7th
The next historical society meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. The agenda will include discussing how to use the proceeds from the Artisans Fair raffles. The historical society was delighted to be the recipient this year. They will also consider possible programs for the fall and winter months. Changing the starting time of future meetings will also be discussed. The meeting will be held in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room on the first floor of the Town Hall. President Eloise Carleton will preside.
Town Hall, 1 S. Main Street
Cookies and Cocoa
Tour the Town Museum
Caroling Sing-Along Led by Daisy Troop 59205
MVFD Chili Cook Off & Raffle Starts at 5:30 Honorary Tree Lighter: Stephanie Vore Apple
Limited Quantity; One Per Family
Visit With Santa
2nd Floor, in Mont Vernon Town Museum
Let these businesses know that you saw their ad in The Amherst Citizen!
McOsker Kennels
603-673-2069
Since 1972
Letters to Santa
The library will have a special mailbox placed inside the library for children to drop off your letters to Santa Clause. Bring your letter already written, or pen a letter on Tiny Town Library Podcast The Daland Memorial Library is stationery provided by the library. excited to announce the launch of All letters will be sent speedy detheir podcast Tiny Town Library. livery to Santa at the North Pole to Look for the first three episodes on be answered. Letters accepted from iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher and Tuesday, Dec. 3rd- Saturday, Desubcribe. The library will produce cember 21st. an episode once a month to report Just the Classics Adult Book local news, make book recommen- Club dations, and interview a person of Do you love the classics? Join the interest in town. Tune in to our next episode titled “Season’s Greet- Just the Classics Book Club and read ings from the Library” to find out one book a month from the claswhat’s happening in Mont Vernon sics. Group meets the 3rd Thursin the month of December. Sub- day of the month at 7pm for dessert and a book discussion. This month scribe, rate and review! join in and read “Silas Marner” by Adult Craft Night: Gingerbread George Eliot. Group will meet on Thursday, December 19th at 7pm. House Decorating Our last craft night of the year Books available to borrow at the liis going to be so fun....Gingerbread brary. House Decorating! All the baking Coffee & Books and assembly is done and you get Coffee & Books is back just in to add all the decorations! Join us time for cold weather. Stop in the on Tuesday, Dec.10th at 7pm for a library every Tuesday from 10amfun filled, adult only please, ginger- 5pm for a free cup of coffee or tea bread house decorating party. Just compliments of the Friends of the 10 spots! Registration required. $25 Library and Starbucks. Stay and material fee. Call the library at 673- chat or browse for books! Cookies 7888 to sign up. too!!
Holiday Movie Night
Dress the kids in pajamas and head to the library on Thursday,
Mont Vernon Congregational Church, United Church of Christ 4 S. Main Street, Mont Vernon Telephone: 673-3500 Interim Minister: Dr. Alex Gondola Email: montvernonchurch@comcast.net Website: www.montvernonchurch.org
Please note that there will be no Community Dinner at Mont Vernon Congregational Church during the month of December. We look forward to seeing everyone again on Thursday, January 16.
Leslie E. Barrett REALTOR®
Mobile – 603-785-8511 Office – 603-924-8373 Email – lesliebarrett@masiello.com
www.lesliebarrett.masiello.com
Boarding • Grooming • Daycare for Dogs & Cats Since 1994
Baboosic Lake Road Amherst, NH 03031
Dec. 12th at 6:30pm for our Annual Holiday Movie Night. It’s a double header this year with “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman”. Ages 5 & up welcome! Refreshments will be served.
Business Directory Please email: MontVernonRecreation@gmail.com with any questions, or to find out how you may help out at future events!
603.672.0032
Carpenter and Builder
Support the 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, 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. Make checks out to the Mont Vernon Historical Society. Questions/comments? Contacts: President Eloise Carleton ateloise_ carleton@comcast.net; Museum Curator Mary Jo Marcely atHannahsgarden@hotmail.com
~ Town Tree Lighting, Friday December 6th at 6 pm
6 Ponemah Road / Rte. 122 • Amherst, NH
Jeffrey T. Manson
Become a Member
Mont Vernon Recreation Upcoming Events:
Many thanks to all our volunteer helpers who contributed their time and talents for this year's tree lighting!
Sponsored by The Mont Vernon Recreation Department
We are so grateful for the collaborative efforts of Ray Lyons, Jr. and Todd Wilkins, who took time out of their weekend to spruce up our Town Tree! These men donated their time, expertise, and equipment to remove our old tired lights and hang fresh new ones. If you see them around town, please thank them for their work. Thank You Ray & Todd!
Santa to Visit the Museum – December 6th
Friday6:00, December 6th 7:30 pm Collectible Ornament
New Lights on the Town Tree and Our Heartfelt Gratitude
Mont Vernon Historical Society News
Mont Vernon Tree Lighting
Childrens Crafts
Library Director: Bonnie Angulas Children’s Program Director: JoAnn Kitchel Email: dalandlibrary@comcast.net Hours: Tuesday 10-8 Wednesday 10-8 Thursday 10-8 Friday 2-6 Saturday 10-1 Sunday Closed Monday Closed
T
HERIAULT & SONS inc.
Established 1956
Incorporated 1980
PAVING CONTRACTORS EXCAVATION
10 Aglipay Drive Amherst, NH 03031 Tel. (603) 889-PAVE (7283) Fax (603) 881-3809 sales@tsipave.com www.TSIPave.com
DAVE THERIAULT SAM THERIAULT
McGuigan Financial
Integrity. Experience. Objectivity. 603.249.6535 www.mcguiganfinancial.com McGuigan Financial, LLC is a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC
PETERBOROUGH OFFICE
95 Grove Street
Peterborough, NH 03458 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
Amber Cornell Groomer/ Owner 13 South River Road Bedford, NH 03110 Furryfriendsnh.com
603-660-9207 Like us on Facebook
“Old Time” Hardware Store where personal service is our trademark! Products & Services • • • • • • • •
Propane Exchange Key Cutting Glass Cutting UPS Shipping Fax Machine Copy Machine Lamp Rewiring Carpet Cleaning Machine Rental • and so much more!
3 Central Square • New Boston, NH • 487-2239 • www.newbostonhardware.com
Add YOUR business for as low as $25 per month. Call 672-9444 or email: ads@amherstcitizen.com