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Youth makes reader proud

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:08:58 EST

To the Editor: This week, I had the great pleasure to meet a young man who has confirmed that honesty, integrity and hard work are present here in the youth of Merrimack. It was late one evening when my husband and I were contacted by phone by Nick, an umpire with the Merrimack Youth Association. He had found my daughter’s brand new iPhone 5 in the lost-and-found, noticed that it had not been picked up for over a week, and took it upon himself to find a way to return it to its owner. His being a young person who is challenged every day with the opportunity to do right or not, I wish to applaud his choice not to steal it or sell it. I don’t think these were even options in his mind.

Thank you to MHS senior class

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:04 EST

To the Editor: The Board of Directors of the John O’Leary Adult Community Center Inc., of Merrimack wishes to thank the Senior Class of Merrimack High School for their participation in this year’s Senior Service Day. On Thursday, May 9, four students from the class visited the center and performed various clean-up tasks, such as washing windows and mirrors and tidying up the outside. Nicole West, Hayley Gee, Robin Rocha and Andrew Everitt all pitched in, scurrying about on ladders and wielding brooms to help make the center sparkle. This effort by the senior class follows a tradition of helping the community in a number of other settings throughout Merrimack besides the Center, and which has continued for a number of years. Afterwards, the students were treated to a barbecue at the American Legion.

Sign up for Parks & Rec summer programs

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:10 EST

The Merrimack Parks and Recreation Department announces the 2013 Summer Programs schedule sign-ups are under way. Programs sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department include American Red Cross swim lessons and youth tennis. Other sports programs held at Wasserman Park are O’Leary Basketball Camp under the direction of Kevin O’Leary; archery for adults and children through New England Archery and Supplies; and In the Net Sports Academy is offering lacrosse and skateboarding. All swim lessons are given by American Red Cross-certified water safety instructors.

Sen. Bragdon deserves credit

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:19 EST

To the Editor: The New Hampshire Legislature is at a crossroads on important energy policy, and several senators should be recognized for leading us on the correct path with respect to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. For the better part of 2012, New Hampshire officials negotiated with other member states in this regional initiative, and arrived at a 10-state agreement updating the nation’s first market-based program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Consistent with New Hampshire law, this agreement must now get legislative approval. Few people outside of these agencies have taken the time to fully comprehend the complex nature of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, but Senators Bob Odell, Nancy Stiles and Peter Bragdon did the work they were elected to do: understand the policy and its impacts on New Hampshire and determine the appropriate course of action in the best interests of our state and citizens. The regional agreement includes a reduction in carbon pollution by lowering the cap on power plant emissions from 165 million to 91 million tons – a reduction of 45 percent. House Bill 306, now pending in the Senate, implements this cap, and in a special provision honoring the work of the last legislature, protects ratepayers by rebating compliance revenues back to them. A related piece of legislation, SB 123, passed the N.H.

Merrimack police unveil drug drop box

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:30 EST

Representatives of the Merrimack Police Department unveiled its Pharmaceutical Drop Box in the lobby of the police station May 10. The drop box resembles a postal mailbox, about 4 feet tall. It will be accessible at all times. Police Chief Mark Doyle welcomed a dozen residents, including fellow officers, some town officials and representatives of various community groups to the debut of the new drop box. Officer Tom Prentice, a 12-year veteran of the Merrimack Police Department, is the school resource officer at Merrimack Middle School. He gave details about the new, white, metal drop box. He said the pharmaceutical drop-off box will be a “24-hour convenience” to residents wishing to dispose of prescription drugs and other substances. Legal drugs and illegal drugs are welcomed.

Reform? Don’t stop at IRS

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:39 EST

I flew down to Washington, D.C., this week with an extra measure of concern about the news. We have truly been divided by policy and politics in Congress and across the nation. We have some very serious policy issues that divide us, and then there is just political posturing as well, done with an eye toward gaining the upper hand for the next election. But now there is a legitimate issue that worries and offends all of us on both sides of the aisle. Revelations that the Internal Revenue Service used phrases like “Tea Party” or “Patriot” as flags to more closely investigate conservative groups who applied for 501(c)4 status are deeply disturbing and violate our sense of fairness.

The Wellspring Singers bring comfort

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:47 EST

George Carvill, of Milford, has for the last three years been involved with a group of about 35 people who regularly volunteer their time to sing to those in hospice care. The group, called “Wellspring Singers,” volunteers with the Home Health & Hospice Care and is affiliated with the Merrimack facility. The group, which sings at area nursing homes and private houses, is there to provide healing, comfort and joy to hospice families and patients, “no matter where they are on their journey,” Carvill said. “It’s an extension of the total hospice care program which also includes emotional and ministry care,” he said. What the group sings depends on the situation and although they do sing some religious music, they also have a repertoire of many other songs.

Merrimack seniors give back with Senior Service Day

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:57 EST

MERRIMACK – Justin Conway hopes his future career will involve landscaping and architectural design. And while further studies or work in the field will have to wait until after high school, he got some practice recently with the hands-on activities such a career would entail. Conway, 17, was one of dozens of Merrimack High School seniors helping out around the community May 2 with various service projects, raking, weeding and picking up trash at private residences, and doing similar work at the American Legion, fire department and other local establishments. “I wanted to just help people out,” Conway said, while raking and removing leaves from an Island Drive front yard. The annual Senior Service Day event, which has been held every spring for more than 20 years, is a staple at the school and in the community. Many years, the same local residents get help with yard work or other chores. According to current organizer Dave Delisle, a social studies teacher at the high school, it’s an event that Merrimack students look forward to every year. This year, about 80 percent of the senior class volunteered as part of Senior Service Day. And many of those who did not, Delisle said, were unable to because of an AP test or similar conflict. “That really speaks highly of the class of 2013,” he said. The event was created by former MHS teacher Bob Clinton and, Delisle said, it has stood the test of time.

Merrimack man talk of the town

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:03 EST

Gregory Fitzgerald of Merrimack recently won the Table Topics Contest at Nashua-Hudson Toastmasters Club’s international speech contest. The contest had two parts: The international speech contest, where contestants prepare a speech in advance. The table topics portion of the contest is impromptu speaking, and contestants do not know the question in advance. The question posed to contestants was: “Compare and contrast your thoughts about Toastmasters before you joined and after you had been a member for a while.” The Toastmasters meet at 6:30 p.m.

Tomahawks fight off Crusaders’ squeeze

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:13 EST

MERRIMACK – Nick Jaskolka had a feeling something strange was going to happen to end Monday’s baseball game between his Merrimack High School team and Manchester Memorial. With the Tomahawks by a run going into the top of the seventh, the Crusaders put the tying and winning runs on base. But Memorial’s attempt at a suicide squeeze turned into a game-ending double play and Merrimack escaped with a 10-9 win over the Crusaders. “I knew it was going to be a crazy finish,” Jaskolka said. “We put ourselves in a tough situation by walking the first guy and struggling to throw a strike to the second guy, even when he couldn’t get a bunt down. Then he gets a base hit and we have to make a play.

Milestone class

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:24 EST

It says something about a school when the students you had years ago are now bringing their children back to be taught by, in some cases, the same teachers. Such is the case at St. James Preschool Learning Center, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, making all who are involved proud of this accomplishment. Walk down the halls of this school and you’ll see 40 years’ worth of class photos on display showing the different classes throughout the years, and children happily posing with their teachers.

Horses, of course, at the library

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:31 EST

(This is a new monthly column from the staff at the Merrimack Public Library.) It’s been a couple of weeks since a bay colt named Orb and his jockey, Joel Rosario, took first place at the Kentucky Derby. Maybe you already forgot; after all, while it’s the most exciting two minutes of sports, it is a quick two minutes. But did you know that today, May 17, was the date of the first Derby in 1875? The Derby has been run 139 times now, and there’s something about it that appeals to most people. For some it’s the thrill of the race. For me, it’s the size of the hats.

Vote Bark for Your Park contest

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:39 EST

Church hosts ‘Upscale Yard Sale’ St. James United Methodist Church will be hosting their second annual “Upscale Yard-sale” on June 8 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m., rain or shine. This is a time for anyone interested in having a yard sale of their own without the traffic in their own yard, or for anyone who has a small business to showcase and sell their products. A space the size of two parking spaces can be rented to hold your table and canopy for $15 if you reserve by May 18. Should you reserve after May 18, the cost will be $20 per space. The only restriction of items that can be sold is food beverages and plants which will be sold by the members of St. James and the Merrimack Garden Club. St.

Crimeline’s Magic Show benefits K-9

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:19 EST

The Merrimack Crimeline says thank you to the Granite State Conjurors for their entertaining, non-stop fun and magical performances for hundreds of Merrimack parents and their children on April 13 at the 5th annual Benefit for the K-9 program. The benefit was a success for the fifth year in a row. Crimeline would also like to thank the American Legion Post 98 for their cooperation in the event. Thanks also to the businesses and residents who donated items for the event and raffle: Shaw’s, Country Tavern, Depot Farms Stand, The Common Man, Merrimack Flower Shop, Cinemagic, Domino’s, Sal’s Pizza, Billy’s Famous Pizza, The Lobster Boat, 603 Lounge, D.W.

Average Joes not so average

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:48 EST

Eric Ruthenberg, of Merrimack, is a member of the barbershop quartet Average Joes. The group’s debut recording was released in August 2012. Each year, the Contemporary A Cappella Society presents awards for the best recordings of the year across all genres and styles of a cappella music. One of the songs from their CD was nominated for Best Barbershop Song of 2012. While the group was not selected as the winner, they were honored to be present at the ceremonies April 5 in Boston.

‘Off budget’ is not cutting costs

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:10:56 EST

To the Editor: I was disappointed by the personal attacks in last week’s letters. We can have an honest debate about sound fiscal policies and I believe that the people of Brookline and Hollis deserve such a debate without ugly personal attacks or smoke-and-mirrors arguments. Over the years, the Legislature has been “cutting the budget” by simply removing certain expenses from the budget itself without actually cutting the spending. When the Democrats became the majority party in the Legislature, they brought these “off budget” items back into the budget, dramatically increasing transparency. During the elections, this was spun by Republicans as “a huge increase in the state budget.” In the last session, when the Republican majority in the House wrote their budget, one of the first things that they did was to take the entire Department of Labor off the budget. The department continued to exist, raise funds and spend tax dollars, but it was “off budget” so that they could claim they “reduced the budget” by a larger amount. In Valerie Odgen’s recent letter to the editor, she cited a questionable speaking engagement that was held at UNH.

Thanks for making book sale a success

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:11:02 EST

To the Editor: The Friends of the Hollis Social Library want to thank all who participated in the success of the annual Book Sale on May 11. The many volunteers who sorted books and helped at the end of the sale deserve special thanks along with Laurel Lang and Anne Russell who chaired the event. The Friends were very happy to see that many, many still love the printed books found in the library and on the shelves of Hollis residents. This year, we had many donations from the community. The many who came to the sale helped raise $2,400.

Hollis eight-grader’s essay on forgotten patriots wins DAR contest, goes to national competition

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:27 EST

HOLLIS –Hollis Brookline Middle School student Kristianna Fox’s essay on “Forgotten Patriots Who Supported the American Struggle for Independence,” took top honors for the American History Essay Contest at the chapter level and the state level of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Officials at the DAR Anna Keyes Powers Chapter said Kristianna’s winning essay was well researched, demonstrated a scholarly pursuit of excellence, and was penned with style, grace and skill. Out of more than 100 submissions at the chapter level, her essay was consistently ranked at the top by the contest judges. Out of the 20 chapter winners in New Hampshire, Kristianna’s essay was chosen to represent the state at the Division Competition for the eighth-grade level.

Spend your summer at Beaver Brook

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:34 EST

HOLLIS – Beaver Brook Nature Center kicks off registration for its Summer Nature Camp. Returning this summer by popular demand is Roberta Woolfson of Lights Up Drama offering “Jungle Tales” to students entering fourth and fifth grades. Rosemary Clough of Moving Spirit Yoga & Dance is offering a second session of nature-inspired yoga this summer called “Creative Kids Yoga” for third- and fourth-graders. Chick Weatherbee has created an advanced “Can You Survive It” class for those who want to deepen their wilderness skills. And new for preschoolers and kindergartners this summer is “Super Heroes of Nature,” which will examine fascinating creatures in nature that possess superior skills.

Should we have a casino in NH?

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:39 EST

To the Editor: The question of gaming is the most pressing and concerning issue the Legislature has faced this session. SB-152 proposes one highly regulated Casino in New Hampshire. I have traditionally voted against gaming. My major concern is proliferation. When we open the door to one form of gaming, do we open the door to all forms? According to Gov.

Sen. Ayotte right on gun control

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:44 EST

To the Editor: I want to thank Sen. Kelly Ayotte for standing up for our Second Amendment rights and voting against legislation that would trample on Americans’ constitutional liberties. Out-of-state special interests are now running false “sound-bite” ads attacking her vote, and even lying about her efforts to prevent gun-related violence. Throughout her Senate career, Sen.

SAU seeks to help students with disabilities

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:50 EST

School Administrative Unit 41, which consists of the Hollis, Brookline, and Hollis Brookline Cooperative School Districts, seeks to locate and identify children who may have an educational disability. Any person may refer a child younger than age 21 for evaluation for reasons including, but not limited to, the following: 1. Failing to pass a hearing or vision screening. 2. Unsatisfactory performance on group achievement or accountability measures. 3.

Rotary celebrates 2013 ‘Peace through Service’

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:55 EST

Rotary’s involvement in fostering worldwide peace and understanding began many decades ago, and its work in non-violent conflict resolution continues at an even faster pace today. The theme selected for the current year by Rotary International is “Peace Through Service,” which sharpens the club’s already strong focus on peace. To support this Rotary global priority, the Hollis Brookline Rotary Club will present its first annual Celebration of Peace as its own local contribution toward Rotary’s global peace through service effort. The event will be held in the Lawrence Barn in Hollis from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday May 22.

Obama should remember oath

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:00 EST

To the Editor: Dear Mr. Obama, In case you have forgotten your oath, your sole job is to protect Americans from domestic and foreign invasion. Once again you have failed. It’s time to call it what it is – we are at war with violent Jihadist groups.

Memorial Day events honor vets

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:05 EST

The Hollis VFW and the Brookline American Legion Post will take part in the following events in observance of Memorial Day. All veterans are invited to attend.: Thursday, May 23, at 8:45 a.m., outside Hollis Upper Elementary. Friday, May 24, from 9-10:30 p.m., at the Captain Samuel Douglass Academy in Brookline. Saturday, May 25, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Poppy distribution at Hollis Transfer Station. Monday, May 27, from 9-11 a.m.

Bikers turn out for Jonathan Gilmour Memorial Scholarship Ride

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:12 EST

Lefty’s Lanes’ holds benefit for bombing victims

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:18 EST

MILFORD – Dillon Howard has a suggestion for everyone who has watched the events in Boston and wished they could do something but don’t have much money to spare. Howard, the son of Lynda and Sean Howard, of Brookline, the owners of the Milford bowling alley, said Lefty’s Lanes (formerly Lucky’s Lanes), is planning a fundraiser to benefit the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing on March 18. The all-you-can-bowl event will take place from 6-10 p.m. Sunday, May 26. Cost is $10 per bowler. All proceeds will go to the One Fund Boston. Dillon said they want to use their facility for good causes. “I think people around the world want to do something (for Boston and the bombing victims),” he said in an email, “but can’t donate a lot of money.

Meet the new Hollis librarian

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:25 EST

HOLLIS – Although she just started her new job as children’s librarian at the Hollis Social Library a few days ago, Vicky Sandin is already excited about all the programs she plans on implementing and the new friends she’s making. Sandin said she just fell into her career choice. “I was always a bookish girl,” she said. “When my boys were born, we were always at the library. I ran the school book fair or volunteered in the school library. As they got older, I realized it was something I could probably do.” Sandin, who has lived in Brookline for about 10 years, began volunteering at the town library before being hired as an activity programmer four and a half years ago, and eventually advanced to the children’s librarian position.

Lunch time in Hollis

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:32 EST

Many volunteers made book sale a success

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:40 EST

The success of the Friends of the Brookline Public Library Book and Bake Sale of May 4 belongs to the throngs of people who volunteered to help. Through every stage of production Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Honor Society members, Hollis-Brookline Rotary members and many dedicated multi-generational individuals volunteered their time and labor to augment the Friends’ efforts. And the bakers – Class A breads, cookies, cupcakes, truffles, scones, brownies and more. We had beautiful fresh daffodils and a raffle of a giant basket of maple goods donated by Maple Guys LLC.

Jamaicans work at local farms from seed to harvest

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:50 EST

You know spring has arrived in Hollis when the Jamaicans start arriving in April. They fly from Jamaica to Miami and then travel by bus from Miami to Hollis. They have been working at Brookdale since 1985, Lull Farm for almost three decades, Lavoie Farm for more than 14 years, and many years picking the apples at Woodmont Orchards. About one month before the Jamaicans arrive, their living quarters provided at the farms are inspected by the Department of Labor in Concord. There’s also paperwork, including contracts to be signed.

Hollis students inducted into Honor Society

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:01:57 EST

NASHUA – Eighth-grader, Eireann Kolden, daughter of Erik and Andrea Kolden; and seventh-grader, Nicole Petry, daughter of David and Karen Petry, were inducted along with 21 other students in the inaugural class of the Nashua Catholic National Junior Honor Society during a ceremony in the school’s auditorium on April 16. Established in 1929, the National Junior Honor Society is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle school students. “We are so very proud of what you have accomplished. We often say, Nashua Catholic has academic excellence, and now we can name it,” said Principal Glenda McFadden during the ceremony as she read Eireann and Nicole’s names and each of the other 21 students. During the ceremony, 10 alumni of Nashua Catholic who are current members of their high school’s Honor Society from Bishop Guertin High School, Trinity High School and Nashua South High School, lit candles as the five eighth-grade inductees read passages that explained the meaning of the five pillars of membership – scholarship,leadership, service, character and citizenship. Following the presentation of pins and the signing of the registry, McFadden referenced an Old Testament passage on how God called his people to be set apart and to be holy. “You are very special.

Hollis Library hosts open house

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:03 EST

Over the past six months, the Hollis Social Library has gone through a number of significant changes and enhancements to enrich our community offerings. As a result, we have planned an Open House at the library on Tuesday, May 28, all day. We will have free food and beverages all day for anyone that stops by. We extend an invitation to all our great patrons and also cordially invite everyone from town to stop in for a bite to eat and to check out the changes in your library.

Hollis Brookline High School honor roll

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:10 EST

Hollis Brookline High School has announced its honor roll for the third quarter of the 2012-13 school year. HIGH HONORS GRADE 9: Ian Anderson, Zan Aslett, Andrew Bisbee, Matthew Bonnette, Lisa Bumpus, Robyn Caron, Erin Casey, Elisabeth Caswell, Hannah Cates, Patrick Chang, Nicola Chomiak, Ian Colburn, Lauren Cole, Briana Cooper, Sarah Cramton, Leah Cummings, Caroline Daigle, Maggie Devlin, Holly Eisenberg, Cecilia Eliopoulos, Katherine Farquhar, Wyatt Farwell, Oliver Fetter, Brandon Fox, Robert Hultz, Cameron Jackson, Chantal Jennings, John Lavery, Juliette Linder, Erin Maloney, Niki Maragos, Tess Meagher, Nicholas Merryman, Takuma Okada, Alexia Philipon, Michaela Pillion, Anna Pugh, Teresa Randlett, James Santos, Julia Solinas, Jessica Souza, Matthew Spooner, Leah Stone, Courtney Ulrich, Derek Wider. GRADE 10: Ashley Anderson, Jeremy Anderson, Meghan Bonta, Sarah Bonta, Heather Bourassa, Stephanie Burns, Emily Cook, Elizabeth Corsetti, Gregory Cowan, Elizabeth Davis, Olivia Dei Dolori, Kristen DuPont, Evan Dwyer, Ashley Farmer, Bridget Giles, Alexis Gliser, Ambika Gupta, Amanda Kabel, Cassandra Kendall, Joshua Kyrias, Sokun Lak, Celeste Marsan, Alexander McCalmont, Evan Moloney, Tia Moores, Kerrianne O’Reilly, Valerie Pauer, Evan Porter, Logan Pucci, Ionela Putur, Emily Raymond, Mark Siebert, Jeffrey St Hilaire, Ryan St Hilaire, Mark Thibeault, Heather Trono. GRADE 11: Katherine Cherian, Emily Choate, Matthew Claire, Emma Close, Noam Eshed, Nicholas Garside, Mollie Gillis, Suzanne Kagenski, Alexander Kasparek, Emily King, Augustine Lewis, Emma Newton, Conor O’Shea, Ryan Papineau, Kasey Smith, Sara Swabowicz, Katherine Tighe, Timothy Udelsman, Savannah Werne, Hannah Wilson. GRADE 12: Ryan Ahlquist, Andrew Batbouta, Emily Benz, Danielle Cambray, Charles Cappetta, Jonah Chazin, Alden Clark, Maria Eklund, Devin Fauteux, Joseph Flaherty, Amelia Flanery, Lauren Guetling, Megan Ide, Audrey Johnson, Katherine Kroeger, Lori Lavey, Eve Lingaitis, Gregory Marinaccio, Alyssa Marsan, Kellie Messer, Ella Navaroli, Adam Ouellette, Colleen Plesac, Helen Proksch, Emily Rezzarday, Tyler Ricard, Joshua Rines, Sara Taylor, Megan Tighe, Kelsey Tulley, Samuel VanNoy, Kerry Vazquez, Cortney Zack, Monica Zack. HONORS GRADE 9: Edward Arnold, Emily Babcock, Jack Barbour, Bretton Belden, Victoria Bent, Shae Berry, Peter Bertone, Madison Blake, Stephanie Buchanan, Lexie Cambray, Alexis Chilton, Cameron Chrystal, Catherine Cotton, Allison Crooks, Zachary Crooks, Tyler Cusson, Michaela Dinman, Emma Dougherty, Robert Drouin, Cheyann Ellis, Liam Flaherty, Matthew Garside, Vanessa Hale, Nicole Hall, Davin Jimeno, Jack Kearns, Aidan Keehan, Athena LaJeunesse, Natalie Lewis, Nathaniel Lindsay, Christian Lopez, Kathryn Machon, Tristan Machon, Luke Maynard, Brian McCoy, Gabriel Michon, Alexi Migneault, Cody Moreau, Madeline Moynihan. Tyler O’Brien, Brendan O’Connor, Megan Olson, Kyle Pittman, Eric Pratt, Kristina Radosavljevic, Laura Raymond, Cassandra Reijgers, Olivia Rivera, Kayne Robert, Randall Rogers, Ethan Sanborn, Christian Santoski, Sophia Saunders, Monika Schneider, Nicholas Sengstaken, Michelle Sideris, Bradley Simpson, Cody Snow, Kelly Snyder, Sara Solon, Andrew Stam, Olivia Straka, Tatiana Taylor, Nathan Thomas, Keenan Troddyn, Cameron Tulley, Nikita Vachon, Matthew Watrous, McLane Wood. GRADE 10: Joseph Balsamo, Rachel Banks, Kayla Barron, Alexander Baryiames, Molly Benz, Kathryn Bobek, Adam Bolling, Martin Bradshaw, Joseph Brooks, Andrew Butler-Boyd, Frank Cadwell, Madison Cambray, Rebecca Cherian, Julie Christie, Patrick Clark, Dylan Conlon, Andrew Cook, Samantha Couture, Zachary Creighton, Kayleigh Crocker, Lucas Cummings, Joseph DeMaio, Hugh Devlin, Danielle D’Intino, Kyle Donahue, Meghan Eisenberg, Matthew Falcone, Matthew Ferenczhalmy, Stephen Fisher, Matthew Fothergill. Anna Giles, Georgia Giles, Scott Goldberg, Benjamin Goodman, Benjamin Groves, Travis Guthrie, Riley Hamel, Angela Harrow, Erin Hattamer, Kai Holmes, Jeremy Ide, Ryan IntVeld, Carly James, Thomas Johnson, Elizabeth Kotelly, Kaitlyn Kozsan, Nicole Kubishta. Brandon Landry, Isabelle Linder, Hannah MacLeod, Ciara Mann, Kristen Marquette, Chandler Maxwell, Molly McAndrews, Austin McCalmont, John McCubrey, Michaela McLaughlin, Ian Robert McNamara, Sierra Migneault, Hannah Modelski, Constance Moore, Michael Morgan, Gerrit Morse, Emilie Newsham, Marc Nolin, Abigail Ouellette, Cole Owens. Gintaras Paradie, Mariah Passamonte, Tyler Pepin, Madison Poulin, Edward Price, Jeremy Quinn, Haley Rascoe, Haley Recke, Jake Resnik, Alyssa Rich, Victoria Sargent, Jacob Scali, Thomas Schmalz, Ashley Skey, Joann Snyder, Darrien Carol Spitz, Alexander Stapelfeld, Kyle Stephens, Nitika Suchdev, Emma Tanner, Thomas Vlatas, David Walsh, Courtney Wilson, Amanda Wojcik, Patrick Zorn. GRADE 11: Allison Andreola, Barbara Arnold, William Balfour, Kelley Barrett, Lindsey Beauregard, Daniel Bentall, Olivia Black, Amanda Blair, Felicia Blais, Courtney Bloniasz, Joseph Bobek, Peter Bowers, Austin Bumpus, Reagan Burns, Lilian Chang, Jessica Ciarcia, Cassandra Circelli, Emmett Craggy, Niles Daly, Laura Dapolito, Michaela Day, Mary Caitlyn Deffely, Elizabeth DeGroot, Michaela Dowling, Jane Eklund, Genevieve Eliopoulos, Graham Fay, Harrison Fetter, Meghan Flanagan, Cole Gallant, Kashka Gammon, Sydney Gillis, Alec Grant, Sophia Hall, Kaleigh Harris, Melissa Hurlburt, Jenna Hyatt, Kara Jaramillo, Grant Johnson, Tyler Johnson. Jacqueline Kalinowski, Fiona Kennedy, Allison Koran, Ryan LeCours, Ryan Lemay, Nicholas Leonard, Jillian Lewandoski, Kyle Lorden, Sydney MacLeod, Matthew Mailloux, Brannon McTigue, Alexander Merryman, Matthew Michaels, Ashlyn Napolitano, Jared Noftle, Jonathan Northcott, Melissa Oittinen, Christian Parenteau, Alec Paulson, Meghan Philpot, Sarah Pugh, Cameron Randlett, Thomas Regan, Anne Reuter, Savannah Robert, Michael Ross, Laura Santer, Samantha Slater, Maria Snyder, Jacob Solon, Joseph Spohn, Craig Stone, Meghan Sweeney, Anish Thilagar, Werner Traut, Alison Wagner, Shea Whalen, Samuel Whitaker, Matthew Wing, Sean Zapolski. GRADE 12: Erin Ackerly, Samantha Ash, Nathaniel Ashe, Kaitlyn Atkinson, Amanda Balsamo, Kellie Bantz, Haley Barbour, Lydia Brown, Matthew Carr, Lexi Cates, Evan Cooke, Madison Cutler, Catherine Dougherty, Sarah Drazin, Alexandra Driscoll, Rachel Dunn, Haley Farwell, Victoria Fernandez, Molly Fitzpatrick, Marion Forrest, Max Friedman, Zoe Garber, Jonathan Gegg, Harry Haytayan III, William Holmes, Grace Howard, Michael Hu, Erin C Johnson, Ryan Johnson, David Jordan, James Keeley, Hunter Longland, Emma MacDonald, Zachary McPherson, Danica Melone, Samantha Musson. Justin Nierendorf, Nicholas Noval, Taylor Owens, Rachel Parr, Arianna Pickard, Erin Ramirez, Timothy Rencken, Kasey Rich, Nicholas Rivera, Evan Russell, Julia Sherwood, Kyle Shoults, Kayla Sliger, Jacob Sulin, Jon Tamposi, Evelyn Thompson, Erin Turner, Leandra Van Kuran, Lindsey Vazquez, Connor Walsh, Nathan Weisman, Bradley Whitaker, Mackenzie Woodrow.

Derryfield hands Hollis Brookline first loss

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:18 EST

HOLLIS – The records may have been similar, but the Hollis Brookline High School boys lacrosse team learned Tuesday that it has a way to go to reach the level of its rivals at the Derryfield School. The good news for the Cavaliers is that they have almost three weeks to get to that level. The Cougars dominated the matchup of undefeated teams, handing HB its first loss of the season, 16-5, in a Division III game that garnered a lot of chatter on social media sites in the 24 hours prior. That led to a crowd of a hundred-plus – and an overflowing parking lot – jammed three people deep around one side of the lacrosse field at HBHS. “It was incredible, for a Division III game and for high school lacrosse in New Hampshire,” Derryfield coach Chris Hettler said. “I saw stuff on Twitter and Facebook, and it was incredible to see the excitement for this type of game, and for high school lacrosse.” Hettler and his coaching staff did their best to pump up their players leading into perhaps the toughest division game on both teams’ schedules. The Cavs (10-1) entered the game with an average margin of victory of 12.6; Derryfield (13-0) had won its previous 12 games by an average of 14.4 goals. “We tried to hype this up as much as we could to put them in a pressure situation, to see how they would respond,” Hettler said.

Brace yourself for more spending

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:23 EST

To the Editor: How “enlightening” it was reading the letter from April 19 about the value of investing and to be reminded about those heartless Republicans curtailing some of that absolutely necessary spending. Of course, most of us realize that “investing” is just code word for “spending” which is joined at the hip with taxing. I would like to thank the former Legislature for the work they did to try to rein in the runaway spending in our state. It is really easy to give our money to every deserving group, and there are many of them.

Better grasp of reality is needed

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:28 EST

To the Editor: Valerie Ogden’s creed (Hollis Brookline Journal May 10) against letter writers Brendan Denehy and Kat McGhee seemed just so patently false and partisan; a reflection of what’s going on in Washington, D.C., and what occurred in Concord when Bill O’Brien was Speaker of the House. It’s shocking that Ms. Ogden, a member of the Hollis Brookline Cooperative School Board Budget Committee, comes across in her letter as lacking a fundamental grasp of budgeting, economics and academics. She seems to still be upset that Denehy handily won his election to the Board of Selectmen, a win rightly deserved given Denehy’s years as a positive contributor to many important town groups such as the master plan and facility committees. The Brookline Select Board started out this year by appealing for more volunteers to fill the numerous positions our town has, positions which need to be filled for our town to be competently run.

Academy for Science and Design honor roll

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:33 EST

The Academy for Science and Design in Nashua has announced its honor roll for the third quarter of the 2012-13 school year. Local students named were: FROM BROOKLINE: Grade 10: Noah Reichl, Honors; and Seth Reichl, Honors. FROM HOLLIS: Grade 9: Dexter Czuba, High Honors; Erin Harper, High Honors; and Samantha Harper, Highest Honors.

Honk, Jr., play upcoming from BYPC

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:39 EST

The Bedford Youth Performing Company will present “HONK! Jr.,” the heart-warming musical based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling,” at 2 p.m., and at 7 p.m., Saturday, May 18, at The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, in Manchester. Performed by students in grades 3-7, and featuring special guest appearances from several of BYPC’s high school performers, the “HONK! Jr.,” story is the tale of Ugly, who, when hatched, makes a strange “honk” sound instead of the expected “quack.” “HONK! Jr.,” is directed by Ann Davison, BYPC director and the nonprofit group’s co-founder. Reserved seats are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Purchase tickets by calling 472-3894.

Bedford’s Camp Witzel day camp opening

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:51 EST

Bedford’s Michele Brisson is the director of Camp Witzel, a Bedford day camp sponsored by the Bedford Parks and Recreation Department for boys and girls ages 6 to 12. Her son, a student at Riddle Brook School, attends Camp Witzel throughout the summer. Brisson has worked for the Bedford Parks and Recreation Department ever since she moved here 13 years ago. She’s also been putting her degree in Communications to work as a broadcaster for BCTV for the past 10 years. Brisson says that Camp Wizel is a place where fun and learning go hand in hand.

Reform? Yes, but let’s not stop at the IRS

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:02:59 EST

Safe at third ...

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:06 EST

SOFTBALL May 8: Bedford 10, Alvirne 6 RECORDS: A 7-5; B 7-4. PITCHERS OF RECORD: B – Jillian Saltzman pitched two innings, allowing one earned run, while striking out one and allowing one walk. A – Jenna Giannelli went six innings, allowing 10 runs on nine hits and six walks while striking out five. BATTING LEADERS: B – Kelsey Murphy (3 for 4, double, three RBIs, run scored), Christina Bonfiglio (2 for 4, four RBIs), Ashley Abad (3 for 3, three runs, two RBIs).

Ayotte needs to listen to NH, not the NRA

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:16 EST

Vote no on vaccine tax bill To the Editor: There is a little-known vaccine tax assessment bill, HB 664, an act relative to the New Hampshire Vaccine Association working its way through the Legislature that will impose a new, limitless tax assessment on every self-insured business and municipality in the state that would have the effect of imposing an expanded de facto vaccine mandate on all children for all vaccines ever recommended for use, including new, unproven, largely experimental vaccines. This bill should be properly voted down. The bill is now in the Senate and needs your urgent attention and is expected to be voted on by the full Senate on May 23. Please contact your state senator today by phone and email and ask them to please vote no on HB 664.

Girl Scout camp open house May 18

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:21 EST

Discover how much fun Girl Scout day camp can be. Meet the camp director and get your questions answered from 3-5 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at Camp Kettleford on Camp Allen Road. All girls are invited. Camp Kettleford offers seven weeks of day camp, in one- and two-week programs for girls in grades K-8, from June 24 through Aug.

Meet Nita Beale, Bedford Women’s Club

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:29 EST

We have so many talented women in the Bedford Women’s Club whose commitment deserves recognition. One such person is Juanita “Nita” Beale, a past president and board member of the Bedford Women’s Club, where she put her economics major and management experience to good use. Hailing from the deep South – Alabama and Florida – Nita and her husband Ernie, a neonatologist named a “Top Doc” by New Hampshire Magazine, relocated to Bedford in the early 1990s to raise their three children. While her Southern roots didn’t prepare her for frozen winters, or New England accents, they did infuse a self reliance, a pride for heritage and a strong sense of community. “The Bedford Women’s Club offers more than just a social network.

Garden Club plant sale May 25

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:35 EST

A variety of shade and sun-loving perennials from members’ gardens will be offered for sale at the Bedford Garden Club’s annual Plant Sale, 9-11 a.m. Saturday, May 25, at Bedford Town Hall, 10 Meetinghouse Road. This is a great opportunity to stock up on hardy locally grown plants. A selection of annuals, perennials, herbs, succulents, vegetables, and potted containers will be available from a local greenhouse.

David Hammer named a Paul Harris Fellow

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:41 EST

Bedford resident and Milford businessman, David Hammer, was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow at a recent meeting of the Milford Rotary Club. This honor acknowledged Hammer’s financial contribution to the Rotary Foundation, and highlighted his contributions to the Milford Rotary Club and community service work. Named for the founder of Rotary International, the Paul Harris Fellow is one of the most prestigious honors presented by Rotary. In making the presentation, Milford Rotary President Ryan Hansen noted that Hammer and his employees at Contemporary Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep in Milford were instrumental in the success of the Hurricane Irene Relief campaign organized by Rotary District 7870.

Bedford Parade to march on Sunday

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:47 EST

Bedford’s Pre-Memorial Day Parade is a day to remember all the brave people past and present who serve to protect our nation and local communities, and to celebrate the freedoms that we all enjoy. The annual parade is Sunday, May 19. The parade line-up starts on Nashua Road by the Bedford Little League Complex at 12:30 p.m., with step-off at 1 p.m. The parade marches down Nashua Road to County Road to Liberty Hill Road and ends at McKelvie Intermediate School. This year’s line-up includes the Bedford High School Marching Band, led by James Butkas; and the Milford High School Marching Band, led by Bradley Smith. New this year is the Bektash Shine High Rollers – eight mini-monster trucks; along with one of Bedford’s favorites, the Bektash Shine Clowns and the Clown wagon. This year, our Award Judges will be Town Manager Jessie Levine and Town Clerk Lori Radke. Marchers will be judged on Best Marching Unit, Best Color Guard, Best Commercial Float, Best Community Float, Best Antique Vehicle and Judges Award Best Use of Theme “Remember Me.” Order of ceremony after the parade includes words from Master of Ceremonies Cmdr.

Mothers’ Club School farewell party June 1

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:03:54 EST

farewell party for the Bedford Mothers’ Club School, 4 Church Road, is scheduled for 2-5 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, at the school. The school, located in the original and historic Parish House of the Bedford Presbyterian Church, is closing, ending a tradition of preschool education spanning about 60 years. Last week, students ages 2, 3, 4 and 5 attended their classes as usual, blissfully unaware of the passing of time. They engaged in singing, counting, and learning “Lobster Lore” from an education ambassador from a nearby seafood restaurant, The Weathervane. Director and teacher Gwen Broder, teacher Nelia Gibson, music teacher Margaret Goodrich and secretary Janet Mousmoules led and witnessed these activities, among the nonprofit’s last. A letter from the school’s staff to parents announced the closing. In June of last year, after students were dismissed for the summer, the school was informed by the church’s Session members that the coming year would be the last.

3 star in ‘Nottingham, A totally Teen Musical’

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:44 EST

Three Bedford residents will star in Nashua Catholic Wildcat Theatre’s production of “Nottingham, A Totally Teen Musical,” in the school’s auditorium at 7 p.m. Friday, May 17, and Saturday, May 18. Eighth-grader Alex Howell will play the “Big Man on Campus” John Prince, while his sister, seventh-grader Katie Howell will try to scoop the news at Nottingham High as the ace reporter, and seventh-grader Sophia Bemiss will try to clean things up as she plays the school’s janitor. “Nottingham, A Totally Teen Musical” is a teen rock ’n’ roll musical that puts a retro spin on the Robin Hood legend. It’s 1961, and life is just swell at Nottingham High.