Page 13 - JANUARY2023

January 2023
NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM
Page 13
Community
Happy New Year from all of us at Newfound Impressions.
Thank you for being a part of our local community newspaper.
From 18 Miles to Field Hockey Practice, Maggie Bednaz Shines On and Off the Field
Meet the Police Sgt. Aaron Chapple
By Brittany amalfi
d Up with Sally Batton
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Santa’s Village at the TTCC Will Go On
Saying Goodbye to a Small-Town Staple
By Donna rhoDes
BRISTOL – Most people have heard the story of How the Grinch Stole Christmas and while it seems the Co- rona virus is trying to play the role of “Grinch” this year, the joy of Santa’s Village at Tap- ply-Thompson Community Center will still go on, just a bit altered due to the unusual circumstances of 2020.
By Brittany amalfi
Santa’s Village is celebrat- ing its 75th anniversary of bringing holiday cheer to the Newfound Region and beyond this year. Typically families flock to the community center to enjoy the North Pole Post Office, Santa’s Toy Shop, Mrs. Claus’s kitchen, the Sweet Shop and more, ending with a personal visit with Santa.
After sixty-two wonderful years, the town of Bristol, NH, is saying goodbye to Skip’s Sport Shop. What started as a hobby soon became a family-centered business with authentic rela- tionships that will last a lifetime. Harold Rielly (Skip) began his gunsmithing on the first floor of The White Birch Inn, and little did he know that his hobby would become such a staple in the small town of Bristol, New Hampshire.
As the number of peo- ple testing positive for the COVID-19 virus begin to rise once more, both Santa and the committee felt that opening
Tapply-Thompson Community Center will host a drive-through visit with Santa this year and each child who comes to see him will receive one of three special holiday ornaments. PHOTO BY DONNA RHODES
Skip’s Sport Shop went from a typical gun store to an “outfit- ter for the town,” says Sue Wil- liamson, Skip’s daughter. They started out by just selling guns to selling accessories, magazines, SKIP'S GUN SHOP
Newfound Schools Budget Dilemma Threatens Jobs, Sports & More
Newfound Area Voter Turnout
By JuDy D. ogara
The Newfound School Dis- trict is facing a huge shortfall next year, and to bridge that gap, its administration is forced to propose a budget that cuts staff, special education, re- quired maintenance, a fifth re- duction in supplies, field trips, books, technology and even middle school and JV athletics.
By Brittany amalfi
“I was pretty concerned when I heard about the se- rious budget cuts,” says Erin Edwards, a resident of Hebron and middle school teacher in the district. The parent of with two children in Newfound schools, she has joined We Are Newfound, a grassroots group that wants, she says, “an appro- priate educational experience for the kids, nothing out of the ordinary, and we just feel that the proposed cuts would make it an inadequate educational experience. As a teacher, I don’t see any waste. It’s very trim.”
The 2020 presidential elec- tion has been nothing short of a whirlwind in our country these past few months. With the pres- idential candidates racing to the finish line to see who will take on the role of the Commander in Chief of the United States for the next four years, our media has been consumed with story after story of the election results. However, the fascinating story here is all about voter turnout.
Pierre Couture, Superinten- dent of the Newfound School District, which serves Alex- andria, Bridgewater, Bristol, Danbury, Groton, Hebron and New Hampton, explains what is going on with the budget.
says Couture. This law, he says, “is a limit of a 2% increase to the tax assessment, not a 2% increase to the (school) budget. They set the 2% increase on the amount we can charge the taxpayers, based on about 14 million dollars, but the school
budget is actually 23 million dollars, so it’s really only a 1% increase in the budget.”
It’s no secret that the num- ber of voters across the country increased from the last time we elected our president. Millions of people came out on and before election day to exercise their constitutional right to cast their ballot. The world watched closely as people filled the gyms and halls, anxiously waiting for the results that would come on
“This is a tax-cap district,”
Next year’s maximum in- crease to Newfound District Schools’ budget is $285,512. SCHOOL BUDGET
VOTER TURNOUT
Just a bit altered due to Covid-19
the indoor village would not be safe this year. However, they willnotletthespiritofChrist-
mas be stolen, no matter how hard the Grinch may try.
‘How the Grinch Stole Christ-
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MAGGIE
Graduating from Pinkerton Academy in 2000, he headed off to Franklin Pierce College, but by
continued on page 2
CHAPPLE
SEVEN
By Donna rhoDes
“It’s huge to have those pro- grams where you can experience what it’s all about. I did that to be sure being a police officer was really what I wanted to do,” said Chapple.
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Bristol Patrol Sgt. Aaron Chap- ple said it was “Officer Bob,” his School Resource Officer, who lit the fire in him to become a po- lice officer, and today he remains grateful for the path Officer Bob led him down in life.
Chapple was in first grade when he met Officer Bob, and as he grew, his interest in being a police officer grew as well. In his senior year, Chapple became an intern at the Derry Police Depart- ment and went on to be named the captain of their Police Explor- ers program.
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“The theme this year is
SANTA'SVILLAGE
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The Stars Were All Aligned as Locals Gathered to Dance in Kelley Park
A Run, A Bun, And A Great Cause
By Donna rhoDes
The evening of July 14 saw a lot of toe-tapping and hand clapping in Bristol’s Kelley Park as Voices Against Violence’s 10th annual Dancing Under the Stars fundraising extrava- ganza got underway, featuring six local residents who stepped out of their comfort zone for a dance performance with a pro- fessionalpartner.
By Brittany amalfi
Meg Kennedy Dugan, Ex- ecutive Director of Voices, kicked off the event, followed by their Board Director Rich- ard Gowen. Dugan said that 2022 marks the 40th year for Voices Against Violence’s service to 21 towns, assisting people who have experienced domestic, sexual violence, sex trafficking, bullying, and other injustices.
Photo By Donna Rhodes
Who doesn’t love a good ol’ sticky bun? What we don’t love is the feeling of those sweet calo- ries lingering after our delectable treat. However, life is all about balance, and Audrey Goudie and Garlyn Manganiello had the perfect idea to balance out those sticky buns with some good old-fashioned running. Goudie and Manganiello hatched a bril- liant plan to start a road race that stood out to the community thirteen years ago. With the two women’s love for running mixed with their desire to host an event that brought the community to- gether coupled with savory food, Run Your Buns Off came to life!
“Weneverclosedduringthe pandemic, and (if we’re not lucky enough to put ourselves out of business because there
Denice DeStefano and her dance partner Jeff Brode brought home the 2022 Voices Award and Disco Ball trophy during this year’s Dancing Under the Stars competition and fundraiser at Kelley Park in Bristol.
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is no need for us) we plan on being here another 40 years,” she said.
the fundraiser’s second year at Kelley Park. He was grateful they could utilize the park at a time when the COVID issues
kept them from holding the event in a theater as they had STARS continued on page 2
With the first race starting in 2009, the event has grown so much over the last thirteen
Gowen said this year marks
RUN YOUR BUNS
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tions to the Thrift Shop are always welcome but there are some guidelines we’ve had to set to prevent us from being over- whelmed,” said Colby.
“Not comfortable paying $1 for a pair of L.L.Bean pants or $2 for a sweater from Talbots? You’re in luck! We accept over- SHOPPERS WANTED
COMMUNICATION
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rch to the Polls as
PRHS Penguin
The shop asks that all cloth-
continued on page 2
Hannaford's Becomes Major Sponsor
Helping A Community Hero
By Donna rhoDes
of the 28th N.H. Marathon
On July 1st, Chris O’Leary, Bristol’s Hannaford Supermar- ket manager, presented repre- sentatives of the N.H. Marathon Committee with a check for $4,000 to once again become the major sponsor of the 28th annual event that draws people to the Newfound Region from all across the United States and from other countries. This year the marathon will take place on Saturday, October 2nd, with a special spaghetti dinner at the Masonic Lodge to help fuel runners up with carbohydrates scheduled for the night before.
By Brittany amalfi
The N.H. Marathon began in the early 1990s as a way to draw attention to the beauty of the region in early autumn. It also set out to encourage peo- ple to participate in what has since come to be known as a world-class running event for all ages and abilities. Best of all, proceeds from the race benefit local children’s programs, such
From left to right are race Co-Director Bob Watson, Olivia Conway of Circle Program, Les Dion of Tthaeppchlyil-TdhreonmwphsonseCpormogmruamnistyaCrensuteprp, Oor’Ltedarbyyatnhde(ekvneenetl.ing) Jackson and Ruby Reise, representing
I was able to speak with a family friend, Erin Camire, who let me know all of the wonder- ful things the community has done in support of Steve and his family. In July, the Firefighters Night with the Winnipesaukee Muskrats was held as well as the Bristol Police Association Raffle and the Steve Hanser Charity Benefit Dinner at The Home- stead. Hanser has given so much to this community, and with his
Shoppers Wanted at Bristol Community Services
By Donna rhoDes
Bristol Community Ser- vices is looking for shoppers. Whether they be searching for clothes, shoes, toys, books, fur- niture or household items, all of those, and more, can be found at their shop on Pleasant Street in downtown Bristol.
Bristol Community Services was founded in 1969 to provide for the needs of local residents. Besides their Thrift Shop, BCS also offers some financial assis- tance, as well as several special programs throughout the year. These programs are supported by money raised through sales at the shop.
Alexandria’s Chief of Police Focuses on Communication
Executive Director Susan Colby said due to the generos- ity of the community they have recently had to set a limit of 2-3 bags or boxes of donations at a time and now just need peo- ple to come shop in their store. With their limited space, the more items that are purchased, the more room there is to put other things out for sale, she ex-
Diane Payne and Susan Colby of Bristol Community Services are looking for more shoppers at their Thrift Shop on Pleasant St. in downtown Bristol where bargains on clothing, household goods, toys, books, furniture and much more are their specialty.
By Carolyn J. Phinney
plained.
“Clothing and other dona-
ing be in new to “like-new” con- dition with no stains, tears or odors and that, for the most part, they be seasonably appropriate since storage for out-of-season items is limited. Exceptions can be made however if someone is moving and has items to donate
before they leave.
As for the shoppers, she said,
If you have been on Facebook and following the Alexandria Po- lice Department, you may have been one of the many watch- ers of Chief Suckling’s live re- ports. His New Zealand accent along with his funny antidotes as he drives the windy, beautiful curves of the Alexandria roads
VERY EXCELLENT
as Circle Camp for Girls, Camp Mayhew for boys, and Tap- ply-Thompson Community Center, serving the children throughout the Newfound area.
part in the event. The major attraction is the 26.2-mile mar- athon, leading runners from Newfound Memorial Middle School on Lake Street to New- found Lake and out to the half- way mark just past Sculptured Rocks in Groton. There they
turn around and head back to the Finish Line at Bristol’s Kel- ley Park. Considered a premier event for serious marathoners, many include it as part of their goal to run a marathon in all 50
Over the years, participants from all walks of life have come back time and again to take
American-Chinese Restaurant & Bar
Now catering across the Lakes
Region for offices, parties, weddings, and all indoor and outdoor events!
Visit www.veryexcellent.com/catering to find out more!
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Steve Hanser is a name that is widely known around the New- found community solely because of his generous heart. With ev- erything Steve has done for the community, it is known that he is the first one to step up in any sign of trouble. Recently, Steve had an accident that has landed him in the hospital, and the commu- nity is rallying together to sup- port him and his family.
PRSRT STD
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continued on page 3
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By Brittany amalfi
The Alexandria NH Con- servation Commission (ACC) had big plans for the little area that was identified alongside the town-owned property by the Alexandria Bog, where they imagined people could have access to the bog and make it into a little pocket park. They wanted a place where people were free to use kayaks, bird- watch, or have picnics while de- veloping a further appreciation for the bog.
By Brittany amalfi
They have been spending the past few years bringing that dream to life by putting out a couple of benches in honor of the two women who founded the Alexandria Conservation Commission, Kate Barrett and Janet Towsd. The Commis- sion also put in some stairs and continued to develop further as they wanted to bring people in and further educate them about swamps, bogs, and the wildlife. Jennifer Tuthill of the Alexandria NH Conservation
Commission informed me that they had a lot of planning for this small piece of land. But things changed for the 2-3 acres of land when a fascinating dis- covery was made.
The Conservation Com- mission knew pretty early that there were turtles nesting in the area they were fixing up for the public, so they quickly put up a sign to keep people off that
specific area of the bog. Tuthill told me that “we’ve seen the turtles in the act of actually
After a phenomenal 29 years of service, Larry Gibson has hung up his hat with Plymouth Parks and Recreation. Gibson’s work as the director of the parks and recreation department was nothing short of noteworthy. Gibson grew up in Pennsylvania and then relocated to Concord, New Hampshire. After applying to Plymouth Parks and Recre- ation and not being offered the position, he accepted a position as Concord Assistant Director, and worked there for a few years. He then saw that the position with Plymouth opened again, and in typical Larry fashion, did not give up on the town of Plym-
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“Mrs. Claus” Brings a Special Gift to Bristol
Holiday Choral Concert Honors the Angels Among Us
By William nieman
and there have been many, were made from behind the scenes. Like women in gen- eral, this has been true of Mrs. Santa Claus. Mrs. Claus was never mentioned in the earli- est holiday season of gift giv- ing. Perhaps this was because old Saint Nick was a cleric, a Bishop who was probably cel- ibate. So, its stands to reason there was no Mrs Claus. As late as the 19th century, when Mrs. Claus finally did begin to appear, she played no promi- nent role in the celebration of the holiday season. In Clem- ent Clarke Moore’s beloved poem “TwasThe Night Before Christmas” published in 1823, Mrs. Claus wasn’t mentioned. Even the children most likely “snuggled into their beds” by mommy were not dreaming of mommy’s cookies but of the writer’s fairyland morsel called “sugarplums.” Oh, not coin- cidentally, that classic holiday
BRISTOL - This holiday season, after a year’s absence because of the pandemic re- strictions, Mrs. Claus is visiting Bristol. She will be at the Minot Sleeper Library at 11am on December 10th. Santa’s wife will be wearing a health pro- tecting face mask even though her elfin blood gives her natural antibodies to protect her from COVID variants. She wears the mask to set a good example for the many parents and chil- dren who will be enjoying her return appearances.
PLYMOUTH - The Pemige- wasset Choral Society (Pemi Chorus) will be performing its holiday concert “Snow Angel” for an indoor audience for the first time since December 2019. The chorus and their enthusias- tic audiences have highly antici- pated returning to its traditional New Hampshire venues in Gil- ford, Franklin, and Plymouth. Music Director Will Gunn has programmed a concert of both familiar and new seasonal works, highlighted by composer Sarah Quartel’s “Snow Angel.”
I had the privilege of inter- viewing Mrs. Claus without her face mask...and what a surprise was in store for me! But more of that later. For now, allow me to provide some context and history to the recent appear- ance of Mrs. Claus as a rela- tively new cultural icon.
“We dedicate our perfor- mances to the “angels” who have made it possible for us to sing to-
I think it’s fair to say that until this millenium, women have been kept from the public spotlight. Their contributions,
MRScon.tiCnueLd oAn pUageS2
CHORAL CONCERT
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By Brittany amalfi
Local Farmers Market Happenings
Friday Night Fish Fries
A Hit for Bristol Knights of Columbus
It’s time to mark your cal- endars because the farmers market is returning to New Hampshire! And not just one farmers market, but different ones from all over. People can start planning their trips be- cause you’re going to have a lot to map out with all the options this year! Covid-19 dismantled some of our farmers market plans last summer, but luck- ily for us, they’re coming back stronger than ever.
By J.D. o’gara
BRISTOL’S FARMERS MARKET AND CRAFTS opens as early as May 15th! Sponsored by the Bristol Lions Club, the market will be held every Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM at Mill Stream Park, 3A, in Bristol, and will run through October 30th. Theressa But- ler of the Bristol Lions Club let me know that vendors vary widely. There will be fresh pro- duce, eggs, maple syrup, pies and baksed goods, wood and handmade crafts, jewelery, and
Hankering for some decent seafood at a great price? Head on down on June 4th to the next fish fry, presented by the Bristol Knights of Columbus Coun- cil 7073, at the Marian Center, across from Our Lady of Grace Chapel at 2 West Shore Road in Bristol. The group’s fish fries have been well received by the community since they replaced a summer tag sale as the Knights’ main fundraiser.
much more! Proceeds from the vendor fees goes to sponsor se- nior and youth services as well as their eyesight and glasses program within the Newfound community.
PLYMOUTH FARMERS MARKET For residents who would like to keep it virtual this year, Local Foods Plymouth has decided to continue run- ning their online market and
curbside pick-up. Their year- round online market aims to help local businesses, residents, and non-profit organizations
“We would go around and get stuff from people, and it would generate about $1200, but it was a lot of work,” says Fred Eich- man, Grand Knight for the Bris-
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The First Turtle Preservation in NH
Plymouth Parks and Rec Says Goodbye to Larry Gibson After 29 Years
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BRISTOL • BRIDGEWATER • ALEXANDRIA • HEBRON • PLYMOUTH - 10,000 Circ.
It’s never easy for high school athletes to persist and persevere throughout their sports careers but Maggie Bednaz did just that ever since she started playing field hockey her freshmen year. Now, as a senior, Bednaz started her season with a career record of 34-7-1, that quickly changed to 36-7-1 at the start of the season. Maggie is a senior captain of the Newfound Varsity Field Hockey team, playing as a left defender and a center defender position. Not only that, but Bednaz is also the team’s left support on defensive corners and their stopper on offensive corners.
Bednaz is the type of player who will step up and do whatever she needs to do to help her team. Kammi Williams, the Newfound Varisty Field Hockey coach, tells me that Bednaz is a dedicated team player and has made huge strides over her time playing
field hockey. “When I came back into coaching, Maggie started as a quiet freshman, and then she continued to progress in the field to the point where she began to demonstrate
these collegiate level skills.” The young player continued to work hard over the years to advance her field hockey skills and help her team become the best they can be. Williams
says “ It was during her junior year season that Maggie had began to demonstrate skills that separated her from the
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VOL. 1. NO. 9
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VOL. 2. NO. 12
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$250 Gift Card
Grand Prize + much more!
Enter by 02/12/2021 at 290 Lake St Bristol, NH
Excludes Alcohol Dine In Only Expires 12/31/2021
Excludes Alcohol Dine In Only Expires 2/1/2022
BRISTOL • BRIDGEWATER • ALEXANDRIA • HEBRON • PLYMOUTH - 10,000 Circ.
AUGUST 2021
BDr
of the 28th N.H. Marathon
Hannaford's Becomes Major Sponsor
Helping A Community Hero
On July 1st, Chris O’Leary, Bristol’s Hannaford Supermar- ket manager, presented repre- sentatives of the N.H. Marathon Committee with a check for $4,000 to once again become the major sponsor of the 28th annual event that draws people to the Newfound Region from all across the United States and from other countries. This year the marathon will take place on Saturday, October 2nd, with a special spaghetti dinner at the Masonic Lodge to help fuel runners up with carbohydrates scheduled for the night before. The N.H. Marathon began
By Brittany amalfi
in the early 1990s as a way to draw attention to the beauty of the region in early autumn. It also set out to encourage peo- ple to participate in what has since come to be known as a world-class running event for all ages and abilities. Best of all, proceeds from the race benefit local children’s programs, such
From left to right are race Co-Director Bob Watson, Olivia Conway of Circle Program, Les Dion of tThaeppchlyil-dThreonmwphsonseCpormogmruamnistyaCrensuteprp, Oor’Ltedarbyyatnhde (ekvneenetl.ing) Jackson and Ruby Reise, representing
I was able to speak with a family friend, Erin Camire, who let me know all of the wonder- ful things the community has done in support of Steve and his family. In July, the Firefighters Night with the Winnipesaukee Muskrats was held as well as the Bristol Police Association Raffle and the Steve Hanser Charity Benefit Dinner at The Home- stead. Hanser has given so much to this community, and with his
as Circle Camp for Girls, Camp Mayhew for boys, and Tap- ply-Thompson Community Center, serving the children throughout the Newfound area. Over the years, participants from all walks of life have come back time and again to take
part in the event. The major attraction is the 26.2-mile mar- athon, leading runners from Newfound Memorial Middle School on Lake Street to New- found Lake and out to the half- way mark just past Sculptured Rocks in Groton. There they
turn around and head back to the Finish Line at Bristol’s Kel- ley Park. Considered a premier event for serious marathoners, many include it as part of their goal to run a marathon in all 50
NH MARconAtinTuedHonOpagNe 2 VERY EXCELLENT
HANSER STRONG
American-Chinese Restaurant & Bar
Now catering across the Lakes
Region for offices, parties, weddings, and all indoor and outdoor events!
Visit www.veryexcellent.com/catering to find out more!
SEVEN BIRCHES WINERY
SERVING THE TOWNS OF BRISTOL • BRIDGEWATER • ALEXANDRIA • HEBRON
MARCH 2021
Steve Hanser is a name that is widely known around the New- found community solely because of his generous heart. With ev- erything Steve has done for the community, it is known that he is the first one to step up in any sign of trouble. Recently, Steve had an accident that has landed him in the hospital, and the commu- nity is rallying together to sup- port him and his family.
Amended Newfound School Budget Goes to Vote March 9th
Voices Against Violence: A New Approach
By JuDith Dorato o’gara
With a majority vote at the deliberative session on January 30 in the SB2 dis- trict, an amended Newfound School District budget of $25,584,426 heads to a ballot vote on March 9th. The session saw about three times the usual turnout, despite Covid.
“We were really excited with the number of people,” says Erin Edwards, a teacher, parent and new administrator of the Facebook group, We Are Newfound. “That was the first hurdle, trying to get peo- ple out to vote for the amended budget,” says Edwards, who says many stood up in favor of the amended budget proposal. “I was impressed with the stu- dents that spoke,” she says.
On March 9th, “the school warrant is voted on during the day on a general ballot,” says Newfound Schools Superinten- dent Pierre Couture.
By Brittany amalfi
The school district faces a shortfall next year. With New- found Schools falling in a 2% tax cap district, next year’s bud-
get could only increase by 2% of the $14 assessed for taxes, which in the end would have increased the budget by 1%
total. Coupled with mandatory
Voices Against Violence is a place where individuals can find not only safety but solace. The nonprofit organization serves as a crisis center supporting survi- vors of sexual abuse, domestic violence, stalking, bullying, and human trafficking. Their mission is to provide a myriad of services to help these individuals lead them to a positive and nurtur- ing environment. With the staff providing in-person and phone support, they also assist with ad- vocacy among many places like hospitals, law enforcement, and mental health visits. As well as a 24-hour crisis hotline, they also doffisecrloesmederlgoecnactiyonshseoltepreionpalencoann-
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SEVEN BIRCHES WINERY
BUDGET
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Chris Van Allsburg, visited Herpolsheimer’s Department Store and was enchanted by a model train running as a Christmas display in the store window. Years later, in 1985, as a writer and artist, he recalled that image as he penned and sketched The Polar Express, a book and later a movie that continue to meld trains and Christmas in the imaginative world of children.
The history of model trains is clouded with appropriate mystery. Tradition suggests that Napoleon III built a toy train for his 3-year-old son in 1859. Germany claims the Marklin Company created the first model railroads in the late 1800s. America’s own Lionel Company built this country’s first electric model railroad in 1901. Whatever the case, chil- dren, including this writer ( years ago), have been pleased and somewhat mesmerized by the clickity-clack of these speeding models for decades, and like so many, I have long associated toy trains and trains born of the imagination with Christmas.
For many, Christmas is when toy trains are brought out of storage or given as gifts to excited youngsters. Many years ago, a young man in Grand Rapids, Michigan,
By Donna rhoDes
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In Bristol, in the 1970s, another young man, a high school student, Doug Williams, watched a small model train running on a 4x8 sheet of ply- wood at the Tapply Thomp- son Community Center. It was part of a modest Christmas display for children. Doug had visited the scene in previous years and had been studying model railroads. On this visit, he volunteered to be the little train’s operating engineer. Ap-
BRISTOL – Winter weather is here, and one Newfound Re- gional High School senior is asking people to be aware of the dangers involved when vehicles are not cleared of snow and ice. In the winter of 2005, Ryan Haynes was killed while work- ing roadside for the New Lon- don Highway Department. A resident of the area headed out to work without cleaning two inches of ice and snow off their windshield. They ran into him and pinned him against his work truck. Haynes was killed due to the collision, but if that driver had paid heed to “Jessica’s Law,” he would still be here today. Ryan Haynes is not forgotten, however. Jessica’s Law was established in 2001 after young Jessica Smith was killed in Peterborough, N.H.
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A “Modified” Hebron Fair this Summer
The Workshop: A Place to Build Skills, Connections, & Community
HEBRON - With the uncer- tainty of the pandemic as time moves along, the Hebron Fair Committee has decided rather than cancel again this year, to move ahead with a “modi- fied” fair on Saturday, July 31,
2021. This means that the fair will primarily feature a slightly smaller number of vendors and non-profit organizations to ac- commodate social distancing guidelines. Many of the usual church-related booths, such as
the white elephant, rummage, auction, books, lunch, food and plants, will not be included at the July event. Although we are planning to still have some church-run tents during the July fair: the Hebron Fair com-
memorative t-shirts; a “mod- ified midway” featuring the “dunking booth” and a couple of the kids’ games run accord- ing to CDC Guidelines; plus, a
PLYMOUTH - There’s nothing quite like a commu- nity getting together to build relationships and build new skills. For those familiar with the Plymouth area, you might be familiar with a little place called “The Workshop.” For those who haven’t heard much about it yet, well, I had the privilege to speak with Rebecca Maguire, the manager of The Workshop. Maguire told me what this place was all about, and I think many residents are going to want to check it out.
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A Light Shined and a Community Served
Give Back This Season with TTCC Gift Card Calendar
SEVEN
During the darkest of times, you can still shine your light.
HEBRcOontinNuedFonApaIgeR2
where people from the commu-
BIRCHES WINERY
COVID-19 has brought
BRISTOL • BRIDGEWATER • ALEXANDRIA • HEBRON • PLYMOUTH-10,000Circ.
JULY VOL2.01.2N1O.8
By Brittany amalfi
When Phil and Julie Taub learned there was a significant need for the veterans who have given so much to our country, they created “Swim with a Mission,” a non-profit organi- zation that supports Veteran Service Organizations. The main event features a swim across Newfound Lake, fol- lowed by a demonstration of skills by Navy SEALs. Over the years, the event has gained so much traction that hundreds of swimmers and volunteers show up to raise money for the veter- ans. The organization success- fully dispersed about six million dollars over the past four years and is hoping to raise about two million this time around. This year, the swim will be held on Saturday, July 10th, at Wellington State Park on New- found Lake in Bristol. With about three hundred swim- mers, they will participate in a 1K, 5K, and 10K individuals and a 10K relay with teams of
By Donna rhoDes
By Brittany amalfi
Swim With A Mission, July 10th
Alexandria Village School Open to the Public for Meetings & Events
threetofive.Whenyouregister for the event online, you will automatically receive a link to the fundraising page. Partici- pants will have the opportunity to create unique pages for their supporters so they can continue to raise money. The top fund- raiserswillberecognizedatthe event for all of their tremen-
dous work! Some fun prizes include SWAM hats, towels, swim bags, and more!
and the State Police will all be there. With the Military K9 demonstrations, people will get to experience an exciting time. There will be ballpark food, face painting, an MC to interview some SEALs along
Throughout the 1800s and well into the 20th century, chil- dren from kindergarten through eighth grade gathered in the building to learn their ABCs and more. In the late 1900s, it began a gradual transition through to stu- dents from kindergarten through fifth grade as older students were moved to classes in Bristol. In 2009, as one of the last remain- ing one-room schoolhouses in the state, the doors were finally closed though, and children were
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The Workshop is a place
THE WORKSHOP
Followed by the SWAM race, people can head over to Fisher Cat Stadium for a fun day where they honor the veterans. The National Guard, Coast Guard, SEAL K9s, Manchester Police K9s,
SWIM WITH A MISSION continued on page 2
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SEVEN
Plymouth’s New Police Chief: Alexander Hutchins By Donna rhoDes
Bristol Community Services Stepping Up This Holiday Season
BIRCHES WINERY
PLYMOUTH – Alexander (“Alex”) Hutchins reached a milestone in his law enforce- ment career when his family gathered on Oct. 12th before the Plymouth Board of Se- lectmen to affix the pins des- ignating him as the town’s new police chief.
BRISTOL • BRIDGEWATER • ALEXANDRIA • HEBRON • PLYMOUTH-10,000Circ.
SEPTEMBER VOL2.10.2N1O.10
ALEXANDRIA – In 1850, the one-room schoolhouse known as the Alexandria Village School began serving the community, and now, 171 years later, it con- tinues to be a place of service to residents and visitors alike.
Alexandria Volunteer Firefighters Striving to Keep the Community Safe Through Reflective Signs
Let’s Get to Recycling!
By Donna rhoDes
By nanCy DoWey, sustainaBility Chair, toWn of Bristol
ALEXANDRIA – When a fire or medical emergency occurs at a residence, first responders know that every minute counts, but rural com- munities face a unique chal- lenge as they race to find the exact location of those needing their help. Isolated areas, mul- tiple homes on large acreage, lakeside condos, apartment complexes, and more can hin- der their response time, which could be dangerous.
BRISTOL - Great news!! Corrugated cardboard recycling is starting at the Transfer Station in Bristol. This was voted on at our town meeting, March 2021. Clean, flattened, corrugated cardboard will be accepted. For those who are unfamiliar, it is double-sided cardboard. Look for ribs in the cardboard be- tween the layers, and flattened cardboard should be no longer than three feet. Staples and tape do not have to be removed. Ce- real boxes or other thin-walled cardboard is not accepted now. These rules are essential because the cardboard is baled and sold. If a bale includes contaminated or the wrong type of cardboard, then it will be rejected and can not be sold. The selling price for cardboard varies, but right
Noticing the lack of no- ticeable signage at homes in Alexandria, the Alexandria Volunteer Firefighters Associ- ation decided last year that it was time to help out their town by providing reflective numeric signs that can be readily seen in an emergency during both days and nighttime hours. When the
Retired Fire Chief Fran Butler and fellow members of the Alexandria Volunteer Firefighters Association are on a mission to mark all residential properties in the community with reflective street signs that will assist first responders in locating them should an emergency arise. PHOTO BY DONNA RHODES
new 9-1-1 infrastructure was developed nearly 20 years ago, people were asked to number, or in some cases re-number, their homes according to the
newly developed guidelines. Street numbers were placed on mailboxes and fences, painted on boulders at the end of a driveway, or artfully crafted
out of wood then nailed to a tree or post. Some were visible at night, but many, it seemed,
By Carolyn J. Phinney
poueotpthleeobvesrt tahnedmthoentwhos,rstthiant may seem like years. Through the feeling of disconnect, many have had to make a choice on how they can still be connected. Typically, that has been helping our fellow mankind. Samantha Hooper is one of those people and the company she works for, Mid- State Health, is one of those organizations.
By Brittany amalfi
Mid-State Health, with locations in Bristol and Plymouth, has made their Plymouth location a secure, safe hub for COVID testing and resources. Though it pro- vides many services (some like Curbside Rapid COVID test- ing, Nutritional Services, and the Food Security Program which are funded by grants and/or the CARES Act), a
Samantha Hooper explains the Quarantine Boxes to Governor Sununu.
This past year, people have been rallying behind small busi- nesses, doing whatever they can to help support them as they fight to stay afloat. Communi- ties worldwide got creative with what they could do to support the small business close to their heart, and The Tapply-Thomp- son Community Center is no stranger to effective fundraising methods. The Tapply-Thomp- son Community Center is a
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SEVEN
Hill Resident Jenna Davis Named as the New Director of Bristol’s Minot-Sleeper Library
Big Raffle to Benefit the TTCC! By Brittany amalfi
new service came to light due to one person seeing if it could be done. That program is the Quarantine Grocery Boxes.
bly seen the posts and flyers around the Newfound Lake area about this fabulous pro- gram, Quarantine Boxes, that was funded by a grant from
the CARES Act. Even Gov- ernor Sununu came to Plym-
By now, you have proba-
MID-STATE
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BIRCHES W I N E R Y
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BRISTOL • BRIDGEWATER • ALEXANDRIA • HEBRON • PLYMOUTH - 10,0
The 70th A
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Before that appointment, Hutchins had already accumu- lated a long history of serving and protecting the public and came to the board last month with the recommendation of Plymouth’s newly retired chief, Steve Lefebvre.
By Brittany amalfi
Hutchins grew up in the Plymouth area in his dad Clint Hutchins’ footsteps, the son of a police officer. “[As a boy] I was in and out of the police department, seeing and learn- ing what it was like to be on a police department,” he told the town during a public hear- ing in early October.
The holidays are the time of the year where there’s a huge need to give back to the commu- nity. Fortunately, the Bristol Food Pantry out of Bristol Community Services goes above and beyond. I had the pleasure of speaking with Susan Colby, the Executive Director, and Diane Payne, the Assistant Director, as they gave me a little history of the food pantry and what they do around the holiday season.
Lefebvre already recom- mended Hutchins, who had
served as his Deputy Chief, and at that hearing, Hutchins
lauded his friend and former chief for his influence over the
POLICcoEntinuCedHon IpEageF2
FOOD PANTRY
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BIRCHES WINERY
It’s no secret that we’re living in difficult times as we navigate the hardships this pandemic has brought upon all of us. As we have seen, the ones who have taken a hard hit has been the small business community.
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As his wife Amada looked on, Alex Hutchins’ children Brecken and Kennedy attached a pin to their dad’s uniform, designating him as Plymouth’s new Chief of Police at the Select Board meeting held on Oct. 12th at the Plymouth Town Hall.
It all started a little over 50 years ago by Colby and Payne, who saw a need in the commu- nity. They started collecting food and clothes, and for 45 years,
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By Donna rhoDes
time for a change,” she said. A jokingly admitted “victim” of ODD (Obsessive Dog Dis- order), she and her husband live rurally and have dogs of their own. Sharing her love for “man’s best friend,” Davis began a dog walking service after her retirement and also assisted a local pet grooming business where she could fur- ther share her love for dogs.
BRISTOL – On Jan. 3, the Minot-Sleeper Library will of- ficially welcome Jenna Davis as their newest director, filling a spot vacated by former direc- tor Brittany Overton who took a new position at the Hooksett Library in November.
Tis the season for giving, and Lakes Region Epoxy Flooring is doing just that! I had the oppor- tunity to interview Lakes Region Epoxy’s owner, Jason Briand, about their raffle with the Tap- ply Thompson Community Center. Lakes Region Epoxy is donating an epoxy floor system for the TTCC to raffle off for those who don’t know. The floor system is up to 1000 square feet! The raffle is ongoing, and tick- ets began selling on December 13th. For those who are inter- ested in entering the raffle, there are one hundred tickets available for $250 a pop, and they will continue to sell until they are all gone or up until April 1st, 2022. So since we are now in January, be sure to check with TTCC if they are still selling tickets! All the proceeds from the raffle will go
Before she left, however, Overton reached out to Davis to see if she would be inter- ested in perhaps serving as the interim director and possibly applying for Bristol’s full-time position.
As a resident of nearby Hill though, the opportunity to help the Newfound Region’s major library caught her attention and renewed her long-time love for library services. Be- ginning her interim position at Minot-Sleeper Library in mid-November, Davis said she immediately fell in love with the facility and the community alike. “I met the staff and saw that these women are amaz- ing,” she said. “The library has a really great vibe, too. It’s small,butit’sbusy,andIknew
“When Brittany contacted me I, immediately said yes,” replied Davis. Director of Hall Memorial Library and serving the patrons of Tilton-North- field since July of 2012, Davis said she retired from there in July of 2021, looking for other opportunities. “I loved it there! It was my dream job to be di- rector of a small-town library butafternineyearsIfeltitwas
Photo Donna Rhodes
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Minot-Sleeper Library’s newly named director, Jenna Davis of Hill, Gposreddonb,ewsihdoeoavpehrsoatwo othf ethleibfracriylitfyro’smve1r8y8fi5rustndtilre1c8t8o7r.Maude
right away I should apply for the job.” Davis also attended Overton’s last meeting with theM-SLBoardofTrustees,
where, after seeing how pas- sionate they all were, she knew
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July
30th 70th ANNUAL