Nominations are open for the annual First Amendment Award, honoring diligence in protecting free press and free speech liberties, of the Nackey S. Loeb School of Communications. A committee of judges chooses the recipient from public nominations. First Amendment recipients receive a bronze eagle sculpture created by Mrs. Loeb and a $1,500 award. Nominations forms are available at loebschool.org or 627-0005. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 12.
If you have a passion for caring for others, and if you are looking for a way to make a difference in people’s lives, consider becoming an Amedisys Hospice volunteer. The hospice team provides services to patients who are terminally ill and their families. For more information or to register for volunteer training, contact Valerie Cillizza, volunteer coordinator at Amedisys Hospice of Londonderry, at 421-0414 or valerie.arnista@amedisys.com.
The Weare Police Department, 144 N. Stark Highway, launched a secure and convenient drop-off site for the safe disposal of unwanted and expired medications. The lock box is mounted in the department lobby. Items for disposal can be dropped off with no questions asked. For information, call 529-7755.
A new canoe and kayak access ramp has been installed by the Hopkinton Conservation Commission at the Bohanon Farm Conservation property. The gangway-style ramp allows access to the river from the steep bank at the farm. There is a drop-off area near the ramp and parking at the information kiosk off Penacook Road.
Laconia Elks will hold its annual youth bike fest on July 31 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 17 Sugarbush Lane. Bicycles and helmets will be given to needy and deserving children of the Lakes Region. To qualify, the child must receive reduced lunch or free school lunch. If you are interested in receiving a bike, contact Doti Acres Gath at 387-7522 or dotgath@gmail.com by July 20. Sign-up in advance is required. Children must be present to receive their bike. The event is funded by the Laconia Elks 876 and the Elks National Foundation. There is also a bike safety course for all children. Kids may bring their bikes and take part in the course for no charge.
Summer programs of Concord Recreation include first and second grade Kids Kamp, third through fifth grade Rec Camp, sixth through eighth grades Teen Adventure camp, soccer camp for toddlers,various soccer camps and yoga for age 16 and older. For more information, visit concordparksandrec.com or call 225-8690.