Autumn Olivia Taylor was born on October
16th. A perfect, healthy, beautiful baby girl, all 8 lbs. 2 oz. and
21 inches. Parents Adam and Megan Taylor are very happy to share
this wonderful news.
REMINDER
Exploring Class And
Classism Workshop
Building Unity In Our
Community
December 12, 2015, Pittsfield Middle High
School Media Center, 23 Oneida Street, Pittsfield, NH, 10am – 5pm,
Lunch provided
Register:
www.classism.org/exploring-class-NH
Sponsored By Pittsfield Listens
This workshop is one of 4 workshops across New Hampshire. Visit
www.classism.org/exploring-class-NH/ to learn more. Sponsors
include the American Friends Service Committee, Investing in
Communities Initiative, NH Charitable Foundation, NH Listens, and
more!
Letter To The Editor
The Holidays are upon us once again and
there are people right in your own community who really need your
help and many of them are children.
As we all prepare to gather around the
food filled table with family and friends during this season, let us
first remember the less fortunate that live among us. They could be
your children’s classmates, the family down the street or across
town.
If you would like to help, a simple phone
call to your local Food Pantry, Fire Dept., Police Dept., or your
Town Hall would tell you how you can help not only during the
holidays, but throughout the year.
The warm and fuzzy feeling you get will
last a very long time.
Don Chase
Departments In WV And MD Receive New
Turnouts Through Globe Gear Giveaway Program
Globe, DuPont
Protection Technologies (DuPont), and the National Volunteer Fire
Council (NVFC) are pleased to announce the fifth round of winners in
the 2015 Globe Gear Giveaway program. Rawlings Volunteer Fire
Department in Maryland and Leading Creek Volunteer Fire Department
in West Virginia will each receive four sets of new Globe turnout
gear.
The Globe Gear Giveaway is a partnership
between Globe, DuPont, and the NVFC to help resource constrained
departments obtain the gear they need to protect their firefighters.
So far in 2015, 11 deserving departments have been awarded gear
through a competitive application process. In addition to the gear,
Globe also provided 200 volunteer departments with membership to the
NVFC.
“We appreciate of the opportunity to
partner with Globe and DuPont to help volunteer departments enhance
the safety and effectiveness of their firefighters,” said NVFC
Chairman Kevin D. Quinn. “Since the Globe Gear Giveaway program
began four years ago, nearly 250 sets of gear have been awarded to
departments across the U.S. and Canada. This program is having an
immense impact on the safety and readiness of boots-on-the-ground
volunteer firefighters in North America.”
The Rawlings Volunteer Fire Department
(RVFD) is an all-volunteer department in Allegany County, MD. Their
28 volunteers provide service to 6,000 residents in a 23 square mile
area. Two years ago, the RVFD’s coverage area doubled when a
neighboring department closed. However, they have not received any
additional funding for their new service area, and both call volume
and operating costs have increased. With only two sets of turnout
gear less than 10 years old and not enough gear for all of their
members, RVFD is currently borrowing turnout gear from their mutual
aid departments to try to meet their gear needs.
“We have held fundraisers for new
equipment, but with our limited budget we have not been able to keep
up with necessary replacements on everything from turnout gear to
SCBA to a new fire engine,” said Chief Ronald Carr III. “The award
of four sets of turnout gear from Globe, DuPont, and the NVFC will
be very beneficial to the RVFD and our whole community.”
The Leading Creek Volunteer Fire
Department (LCVFD) serves 7,500 residents in a very rural area of
West Virginia. They provide fire suppression, search and rescue,
auto extrication, and traffic control services as needed within
their first due area as well as mutual aid to neighboring
departments. LCVFD also provides fire safety awareness to elementary
and vocational schools within their county. They operate on the
principle that all fires and accidents can be prevented with
adequate community education.
The department receives no city revenue or
funding and limited state and county funding. The mandatory costs of
insurance and workers’ compensation have made it very difficult for
the allvolunteer LCVFD to maintain operations. The current turnout
gear for most members was purchased in 2006 and is approaching the
10 year mark. Most of the current gear is worn to the point that
meeting NFPA standards is in question. Newcomers to the department
are using even older gear handed down from current members. Because
of the Globe Gear Giveaway, the LCVFD will be able to offer their
four newest members with brand new, safe gear.
The final gear awards of 2015 will be made
in December. Stay tuned to the NVFC’s Dispatch newsletter, web site,
and page on Facebook for the announcement.
About Globe
Firefighters need to be prepared to perform at their peak, on every
call. That’s why Globe delivers the most advanced, best-fitting, and
longest lasting protection by listening to our customers, creating
breakthrough designs, and applying the engineering skills of the
nation’s most trusted turnout gear manufacturer. Globe turnout gear
is designed to protect you, move with you, and improve your
performance. It’s athletic gear for firefighters. Learn more at
www.globeturnoutgear.com.
About DuPont Protection Technologies
DuPont Protection Technologies (NYSE: DD) has been bringing
world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the
form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The
company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments,
NGOs, and thought leaders we can help find solutions to such global
challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere,
decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the
environment. For additional information about DuPont and its
commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit
www.dupont.com.
About the NVFC
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit
membership association representing the interests of the volunteer
fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the
volunteer in the national arena and provides invaluable resources,
programs, training, and advocacy for first responders across the
nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org
Annual Craft Fair
Don’t miss the annual Craft Fair at the
First Congregational Church, 24 Main Street, Pittsfield, Saturday,
December 5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. A dozen local artisans feature fine
seasonal crafts of all types including knits, decorative items,
fresh greenery, gourmet selections and much more including items
offered by the Pittsfield Historical Society. Luncheon is available
and offered by the Dorcas Guild. There is parking and a wheelchair
accessible entrance at rear of church at Chestnut Street. For more
information call the church office at 435-7471.
Letter To The Editor
I am very grateful to the Pittsfield Police officers who responded
to my frantic call about a wild animal in my house. It’s all very
funny now but it was pretty scary last night when, sitting down to
relax, I saw an animal walk across my living room, down the hall
headed to my bedroom ! I was understandably frightened. I’ve
only been in this rural country home a few years and this was a new
and unexpected encounter with the wild!
Reaching my bedroom and hearing it in my closet I quickly closed the
doors trapping it inside. After a few frantic moments
considering my options, I called the police! I am so grateful
to their quick response! It’s all very laughable in retrospect. It
could have been a fisher cat or rabid raccoon, so I’m serious when I
say the officer bravely entered the closet and searched until she
found the possum hiding in the far corner.
Officers Kristina Martineau and Brandon
Walker chased it around the bedroom as it scurried under my bed and
behind dressers finally cornering it. Upon release it bee lined it
for my front steps where it has apparently made its home in the
protected area under the steps.
A “have a heart” trap is on my shopping
list, but for today I am extremely grateful for the Pittsfield
Police who “protect and serve“ our community, even removing wild
animals from bedroom closets!
Reminder, be careful to never leave doors
open on cold nights or you’re likely to have unwanted guests!
Mary Ellen Siudut
Christmas Sing-along Planned
“Caroling, caroling,” a Christmas
sing-along, is set for Friday, December 11, 7-8 p.m. at the First
Congregational Church, 24 Main Street, Pittsfield. It will feature a
variety of your old favorite Christmas carols (with the original
words!) to sing along. Light refreshments and fellowship will
follow. Be sure to mark your calendar for this enjoyable event for
all ages. Bring a friend! There is parking and a wheelchair
accessible entrance at rear of church at Chestnut Street. For more
information call the church office at 435-7471.
Shop Small - Do your Christmas Shopping
Locally by Meggin Dail It may be said that I’m pretty good at this
shopping thing, especially when buying gifts for others. I am a
self-proclaimed shopping guru and am usually very good at choosing
unexpected gifts for even those hardest to buy for and I am willing
to share my hints with you, all without having to leave your
neighborhood. Now pay attention, I’m about to reveal to you some
gift hiding spots in no particular order.
Gift cards and certificates are, of course, the easiest gift around
and you may not realize many local shops offer them. Places like
Combustion Motorworks of Barnstead, Bergeron Protective Clothing of
Epsom, The Pittsfield Players, Chichester Massage (at a discount
this Saturday), Classic-U of Epsom (at a discount this
Friday), Clark’s Grain Store of Chichester, Davis Fuels of Epsom and
many others are ready for you to stop by and give the gift of
choice.
While I love receiving gift cards, I am
usually apt to try and find either that perfect gift or the unusual
one. If you’re like me, a gift card is the last resort, but if gift
cards are your thing, make sure they’re from local shops and send
your recipient somewhere that may become their new favorite store.
Looking for the perfect gift? Around this
time of year shops pull out all the stops and you’ll see things
appearing at that point of purchase (the cash register) you’ve never
seen before. Take a look around and you’ll be surprised what is just
right for everyone on your gift list.
Granite Image doesn’t just sell faxes and
copies, owner, Denise Robinson is also a crafter and has book
journals, bookmarks and jewelry available at her Epsom Shoppes
store.
Tim’s Truck Capital has more than big boy
toys for sale, their showroom is a mecca for the truck enthusiast
with truck accessories for sale in their new location.
Bickford’s Sport Center, whether you want
to surprise someone with a new Ski-Doo is up to you, but they also
offer hats, socks, jackets, helmets and more. Plus I noticed just
yesterday, owner Paula has “Paula’s Preserves” for purchase, in six
different flavors!
Need an idea for that hard-to-buy for man
on your list? I was floored to find out last year that Bergeron
Protective Clothing of Epsom sells boots and flashlights right in
their showroom, among other handy tools. Bergeron is not just for
firefighters but for anyone who works in extreme conditions and
relies on equipment that works!
Walk into Companion Animal Hospital,
Suncook River Veterinary Clinic or Northwood Veterinary Hospital and
you’ll find something for that pet lover in your life. Whether it’s
new leash, fur baby shampoo or some kitty toys and treats, you’ll be
sure to please.
Valley Artisans not only boasts probably
one of the oldest buildings on this list, located right off Route 4
on Goboro Road in Epsom but also features all handmade crafts made
right here in New Hampshire. Whether it’s glasswork, quilting,
knitting, jewelry, ornaments, baby items, bird houses, sauces,
vanilla or rubs, you’ll quickly realize this must be where Santa’s
elves work year-round.
The Little Red Hen Country Gift Shop on
Norris Road Pittsfield also needs to be a stop on your list if it’s
country you’re looking to find. This shop has many local crafters,
quilters, weavers, artists, honeys and more. They’re having an open
house this weekend.
Forget-Me-Not Flowers and Gifts right down
the street from Jitters on Main Street in Pittsfield, not only
offers fine silk and fresh flower arrangements but live plants,
small gifts, candles and handmade gift cards.
Paul’s Unisex of Pittsfield, Natural Look
Salon of Epsom, Cindy’s Hair Affair of Pittsfield and Classic-U
Salon of Epsom has beauty products that you can only get at
registered salons such as these. Those hard to buy for teen girls on
your list would appreciate being pampered at home with stylish hair,
nail and beauty products.
Clark’s Grain Store is not just your Blue
Seal provider but a mecca of gifts for everyone on your list
including the cook, gardener, pet enthusiast, horse lover, bird
watcher and more. Walk in and browse around, the shop holds much
more than you think.
For something truly unique, try Rustique,
the truly upcycled one-of-a-kind vintage furniture store in
Northwood. Bridget makes sure every piece is unique and can even
take special orders for your living room, dining room or bedroom
plus smaller pieces for decor.
Maxfield’s of Pittsfield and Heritage True
Value of Northwood has enough for the entire family whether it’s
Christmas lights and inflatables, tools, toys, cooking, canning and
more, you’ll find something unique you never thought to look for.
Got some one who’s gluten free? Get them
some goodies at Hunky Dunk Farm and Keepin’ It Local Market in
Northwood where you’ll also find locally grown and organics in the
vegetable, meat and bread categories as well as honey and pollen,
granola and dairy.
Danis Supermarket of Pittsfield and The
Store, a convenience store in Allenstown, should be on your list and
might just help you fill a stocking or a food pantry. Food makes
great gifts at any time of year. Cooks just love those spices and
unique ingredients or tasty treats and snacks and almost everyone
appreciates candy, coffee or a fruit basket.
You could give the gift of time by
providing a stay at Graylag cabins on Wild Goose Pond in Pittsfield,
or scheduling a delivery of sand or salt from K&K Landscape Supplies
or Fill-More of Loudon, a tractor service from Charley’s Tractors or
finally finishing that project with Patty Sabbia Painting or Epsom
Tool Rental.
Treat yourself! New crowns at Northwood Family Dental; a new car
from M&M Ford of Epsom; a new house from Exit Realty of Pittsfield;
some piece of mind from The Paige Agency of Pittsfield or Steven’s
Insurance Agency of Epsom; a new job from Dail Transportation; some
child care from Blueberry Express Day Care of Pittsfield or Circle
Child Care of Epsom; a nice breakfast at Northwood Diner, 3M Diner
of Deerfield or Jitters Cafe of Pittsfield; a sense of peace from
any one of our local churches; flexibility from Journey to Peace
Yoga and Wellness or Professional Physical Therapy Services of
Pittsfield; a fresh shave at Platinum Barber Shop and Shave Parlor
of Chichester; a tune-up from B-Boys Auto Repair of Barnstead or an
oil change from Goodwin Auto of Epsom or H & W Automotive of Loudon;
a clean-up from Ponderosa Salvage of Epsom or Jungle Jim’s;
and many, many more services and specialties found right here in our
Suncook Valley Business Directory.
So, you see, there are plenty of gifting
opportunities right here in our own backyards. No need to brave the
crowds or hunt for sales. The Suncook Valley Sun holds your wish
list right here within these pages.
Letter To The Editor
It appears the special interest groups
continue to raise havoc with the foundational fabric of America,
small communities being no exception. In 2006 in an effort to
shelter our children from potential harm, minimize undesirable
activity and promote the overall safety and well being of all its
citizens, the Town of Pittsfield enacted a curfew ordinance at its
March Town Meeting, which numerous downtown residents agree has been
working well. Evidently it’s a problem for the American Civil
Liberties Union of New Hampshire (ACLU-NH) who “sent letters
recently to several municipalities with curfews, stating that
provision of their ordinances is ‘unconstitutional and bad policy’”
according to a recent article in the Concord Monitor, with the
expectation that communities will stop enforcing the ordinance or be
sued.
“Bad policy” for who? On its website, the
ACLU states that it “fights tirelessly in all 50 states, Puerto
Rico, and Washington, D.C. to safeguard everyone’s rights.” As a
matter of fact, this is the same group that opposed Governor
Hassan’s stance on the Syrian refugees in an article a few days
prior. While on the surface it may seem like a noble cause as they
“work to change policy as well as hearts and minds,” the
“safeguarding” undermines authority to the benefit of a select
minority, leaving the majority behind.
Edmund Burke had it right when he said,
“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do
nothing.” It’s time we, the (hardworking, law-abiding, taxpaying)
people, stop sleeping while our ability to live moral and peaceful
lives is eroded away by tenacious social groups. Let’s not follow
other communities who have given in to this bias but rather lead by
example at our March Town Meeting by maintaining our curfew
ordinance. This is a local community decision.
Linda Small
Pittsfield
American Legion Legion Post 88 News
Submitted By Commander Shawn Jones
Mike Hartt with display boards for the AL
Oratorical Programs.
Mike Hartt addressing
the MVMS assembly.
Post 88 Commander
Shawn Jones and C&Y Officer Michael Hartt pose for a picture after
the Veteran’s Day assembly.
Troop 247 Scout Wade
Fisher and Commander Shawn Jones pose together for a photo.
At our November meeting we had 11 members
present. Sr. Vice Commander Gary Tasker and Judge Advocate Stan
Prescott gave reports from the building committee. They continue to
work on the redesign of our new building and have met with a local
contractor to get a price on the work that needs to be done.
I updated the membership on the work that
Children & Youth Officer Mike Hartt has been doing. He was invited
to give a speech at Merrimack Valley Middle School(MVMS) on November
10th during a Veteran’s Day Assembly. Mike made up two display
boards for the Junior and High School Oratorical Programs and set
them up at the school. He also put out informational flyers for
students and guest to take with them. Mike was able to give a Public
Service Announcement(PSA)on the program. He represented our post
well and we’d like to thank Principal Patricia Severance, Assistant
Principal William Hinkle and the students of MVMS for inviting us
veterans and showing how much they appreciate us. A job well done by
those students over there. They sure did put smiles on all the
veteran’s and their family members faces. It would be great if we
can get some students from these schools who would be interested in
competing for some prize money. If anyone has any questions please
contact either American Legion Post 88 in Loudon or Post 31 in
Penacook. Both posts have a C&Y officer who can answer your
questions. Next Mike has plans to reach out to our Lighthouse and
AGAPE Homeschool Associations as the programs of the American Legion
is not just limited to public school students. He also wants to see
if Post 21 in Concord has any interest in doing a joint presentation
on the Oratorical Programs at Concord High School.
Since our October meeting I attended the
Fall Conference on October 31st at Post 1 in Laconia and the
Department Executive Committee (DEC) meeting on November 14th at
Post 43 in Manchester. Topics discussed where membership, dues
increases, the June convention in North Conway, IRS tax exempt
status, do’s and don’ts of running a meeting where just some of the
topics covered. At the DEC meeting nominations for Department
Treasurer where made. PDC Bob Dione was the only nominee and was
voted to fill the recent vacant seat of Dept. Treasurer to finish
out the term that expires in June. We also voted in favor of a NH
Departmental dues increase from $45 to $50. Also discussed those
posts that have caught the eye of the Department including two in
District 5 that have needed corrective action taken by the
Department to make sure they maintain the full honesty and integrity
of the American Legion in maintaining their post operations. One
Son’s of The American Legion Squadron’s charter was voted on to be
pulled due to a lack of members participating in the squadron.
Lastly I attended the Veteran’s Day Ceremony in Boscawen on November
11th. It was a wet morning but well worth my efforts since it was
said that there are military men and woman who are serving in worst
conditions than a little rain. I was able to dry off for a little
while on one of the NHVH buses that our own Fred Osgood was riding
on. It was nice to visit with Fred and catch up with him. He is
still enjoying his stay at the “Old Soldiers Home”. We’ll see you
later in December Fred when we come up to bring a donation to the
Resident Benefit Fund.
From November 19th through November 23rd
the Lead Candidate for 2016 National Commander, Charlie Schmidt from
the Department of Oregon will be in the state visiting various posts
and participating in various events through out NH.
Our 2016 membership renewals so far are at
71.23%. We need to have all members pay their 2016 dues no later
than December 16th to avoid the extra $5.00. I can’t say enough,
don’t wait until January to pay your 2016 dues. We need them into us
by 12/16/15 so that our Adjutant can process the payments and send
them into the Department. If there are any readers who belong to
Post 200 and wish to join your local post and save $20 a year please
contact me.
Motions where made by members to donate
$250.00 to the Loudon Food Pantry and $150.00 for the USMC Toys for
Tots program. Gary Tasker will deliver the donation to the food
pantry and Mike Moffett will take the donation down to the Marine
Corps.
Our Commander’s Fund Raffle winners for
November where: $50-R.Sylvester,$25-K.Wood,$10-M.Brogan,$10-D.Denis
& $5-E.Bean. Congratulations to our winners.
Our next meeting will be on December 16th
at 7 PM at Charlie’s Barn. We look forward to seeing you there. Have
a Merry Christmas and God Bless You all. Thank you all for being
members of Loudon Post 88, with out your support we wouldn’t have a
post.
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