The Volunteer Transportation Center drives thousands of miles each year assisting community members. Over the last 30 years, this essential non-profit organization has provided rides to health care appointments. The VTC relies on the generosity of volunteers who are trained and certified to fulfill this mission. Each volunteer must apply and pass extensive background checks. Once the volunteer has completed all paperwork and participated in orientation, they can hit the road. If you or someone you know would like to become a volunteer, call 931-9046.
Tighten your laces – it’s time to get outside and all for a great cause! Tanger Outlets Tilton in conjunction with Northeast Communications, Belknap Landscape Company and Laconia Daily Sun will host the 12th Annual TangerFIT 5K presented by Under Armour.
This year’s event will be virtual – your race, your place, on your watch. You have an entire week (Oct. 11-18) any time you choose – to complete your 5K. The first 500 registrants to check-in at the race will receive an exclusive Under Armour race T-shirt. Top finishers will receive placement medals. Plus, registrants will have access to an exclusive Facebook Group for community motivation, accountability, tips and more!
Each registration will benefit LRGHealthcare’s breast health initiatives. This event has raised over $100,000 over the previous 11 years. Funds raised have been directed to the Oncology Department at LRGHealthcare, to benefit local patients undergoing a cancer diagnosis. Examples include respite care from therapy/treatments, complimentary Therapies to help patients cope with medical treatments/interventions and for recovery, Durable Medical Equipment including wigs and prosthetics to aid in recovery, Homemaker Services to aid in withstanding and continuing treatment or therapies and electronics for patient use while receiving treatment at the hospital.
To learn more or register, visit tangeroutlet.com/race.
Here is a look at the fall events planned at the John Hay Estate at The Fells. Unfortunately, there will not be Christmas at the Fells this year, but there will be other educational and entertaining events.
■An Afternoon of Dance, Sculpture and Art, Sept. 26, 1 to 3 p.m.: Reflecting this summer’s art theme of Stillness and Motion, dancers from the professional dance company Ballet Misha (of Manchester) will perform an exploratory collaboration between sculpture and dance. Visitors follow a self-guided tour of the grounds where they will see dancers performing improvisational dance inspired by the sculptures. Guests can move through the galleries and outdoor exhibit at their leisure to see the dancers, sculptures and art, and meet the artists. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the garden, on the veranda, or in the pavilion. Members: free, nonmembers: included in regular admission fee.
■Fungi Foray with Maynard Wheeler, Sept. 27, 1 to 4 p.m.: Maynard Wheeler and members of the Montshire Mycology Club present an introduction to fungi for beginners followed by a foray amid the rich Fells woodlands and ending with an identification session. Bring a basket and knife. Members: free, nonmembers $10. Advance registration is required as space is limited; call 763-4789, ext. 3.
■John Hay Virtual Book Group: “The Statesman and The Storyteller,” Sept. 30, 10 a.m. to noon: Please join us onZoom for this live discussion about Mark Zwonitzer’s book, The Statesman and the Storyteller: John Hay, Mark Twain, and the Rise of American Imperialism. Mr. Zwonitzer will be joining the discussion to take questions and comments. To register for this free program call 763-4789, ext. 3 or email info@thefells.org. The link to the Zoom event will be forwarded to you by email the week of the event.
■First Thursday Hike at The Fells, Oct. 1 and Nov. 5, 11 a.m.: Join us for a one-hour hike on The Fells property. These informal, moderate walks will be an opportunity to get a little exercise, spend time out in the landscape, and perhaps discover something new about the property once owned by the John Hay family. Members: free, non-members included with regular admission. No reservations necessary. Meets at The Fells kiosk.
■Holiday Boutique, Nov. 7 to 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: For just 16 days this November, shop for unique gifts at the Holiday Boutique at The Fells Gatehouse. We have assembled a wonderful Boutique with products made by the finest regional artisans for you to browse and enjoy an unparalleled shopping experience. Find gifts, decorations, and holiday cheer like no other for your loved ones.
For more information on all the events, visit thefells.org.