Concord/Penacook
■On Christmas Eve at 6:30 p.m., United Church of Penacook will share the message of joy, hope and peace with special musical presentations and Christmas carols. Pastor Jerry McCann will lead this traditional candlelight service. For more information, please call (603) 753-4072 or visit ucpnh.org for directions to the church, located at 21 Merrimack St. All are welcome to join the festivities.
■The United Church of Penacook Food Pantry, serving Penacook residents only, is open every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. year-round. (If Penacook Elementary/Merrimack Valley School District is closed due to weather, the pantry will also be closed.) Visitors coming to the pantry are allowed two bags of groceries and one bag of personal care items every two weeks unless extra food is available or an emergency situation comes up.
CHERYL STINSON
news03303@aol.com
■Come ice skate with family and friends at the Douglas N. Everett Arena today and Monday through Thursday, March 14. Skating hours are Sundays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Refreshments are available. Admission is $6, free for ages 3 and under. Skate rentals are $6 or bring your own.
■Ice skating lessons are offered by Concord Parks & Recreation, January through February. Classes have limited registration that must be completed with Concord Parks & Recreation by mail, fax or online. Registration for skating lessons cannot be done at the Everett Arena. Find more information at concordnh.gov/skating.
■It’s the Pembroke Academy vs. Hollis-Brookline Hockey Game on Jan. 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Douglas N. Everett Arena, 15 Loudon Rd. For all high school games, go toconcordnh.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3096/2023-2024-Everett-Arena-High-School-Hockey-Schedule?bidId
■Stop by the Heights Branch Library at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays to learn about eBooks, downloadables, library databases and other questions you may have.
■On Wednesday at 9:30 a.m., it’s Preschool Storytime in the Library Auditorium. RSVP required. Recommended for ages 0-5
■LEGO Club meets on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. in the Library Auditorium. RSVP required. Recommended for ages 5-10.
■Warm up for a Frozen Sing-Along in the Library Auditorium at 2 p.m. on Thursday. RSVP required. Recommended for ages children up to 18 with caregivers.
■Storytime Stations are at the Heights Branch on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Recommended for ages 0-9.
■Happy Noon Year! Ring in the New Year at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. The library will celebrate with light refreshments and a special toast. If you want, dress up in fancy clothes. Recommended for kids birth through elementary. Please register at docs.google.com/forms/d/1pso6I-N1j7k5mrBLhnTWWhvyQ8JeteVjG_pe9Anul2Y/viewform?edit_requested=true.
■All aboard the BELONG bus for our next Teen Excursion to Escape Room Concord, 240 Airport Rd. This event on Thursday at 9:30 a.m., is open to all middle and high school students. Registration is required at bit.ly/y-teen-events. Tickets are $55.
■Join Painstorm New Year’s Eve WOD for a special Sunday workout to sweat together before ringing in the new year. It’s a special Jon Farwell suffer-fest. Please reserve your spot in Wodify. Bring a friend, come check us out, and let’s rock at Amoskeag Concord, 229 S Main St. at 9 a.m.
■Get more information on these and other shows at ccanh.com/shows-and-concerts. Zach Nugent’s Dead Set is on Friday at 8 p.m. at the Bank of NH Stage, 16 S. Main St. Zach Nugent is one of the most sought after guitarists. Expect magic to happen.
■On Jan. 3, at 6 p.m., it’s a free chance to play on the big stage at theBank of NH Stage, 16 S. Main St. All ages and experience levels are welcome at this monthly open mic.
■The Greatest Love of All is a “mind-blowingly spot on,” beautifully crafted Whitney Huston tribute on Jan. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Chubb Theatre, 44 S. Main St.
■At the Bank of NH Stage, 16 S. Main St., Rubikon who quickly emerged as something of a musical meat grinder, performs on Jan. 5 at 8 p.m.
■Be their free virtual guest for the launch of Astrobotic’s Peregrine Mission 1 on Dec. 24 at 1:49 a.m. NASA is working with American companies to deliver scientific, exploration and technology payloads to the moon’s surface and orbit. Register to let NASA know that you’re virtually participating from your spot in the universe! eventbrite.com/e/nasas-commercial-lunar-payload-services-astrobotic-peregrine-1-launch-registration-525735457907?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse.
■Now, go back to wondering what your “new toys” will be whether you’re 8 or 80. Love your family. Drink some cocoa. Breathe. If you’re going to church, feel it in a new way. It’s really a birthday party! Have some gingerbreadmen for breakfast and savor and cherish Christmas morning!
■Joyeux Noël, Feliz Navidad, Nollaig shona, Prettige Kerstdagen, Nib8iamih8mek, Krist Yesu Ko Shuva Janma Utsav Ko Upalaxhma Hardik Shuvakamana, kala christougenna / kala xristougenna, Feliz Natal!, shèng dàn kuài lè, Anu keghi Christmas nu amapi kethighi wa salam pi nthu chupenle, Raska nawa Serma, Piak Pasko Pu Piag Bago Tawn, Madyaw Pagsalog sa Pagka-otaw ni Jesus, Maligayang pasko, Nathaar thina vaalthukal, Masinadyahon nga Paskua Kay Malipayon nga Bag-ong tuig!, Mepiya Pagasaulog sa pagka-otaw ni Jesus aw maontong kaling Omay! Fiya Pagpasko, Mayad pag Pasko kag, Madyaw na Pasko aw malipayong Bag-ong Tuig kamayo, mga lumon, Selamat Hari Natal, Christmas elani nzyu ethan myingona nte topvu Tunghi ematha longshi salam ka, Hyveä rostuon proasnikkoa ta, Christmas Id Mubarak, Khasy India Krismas basuk, naragsak a paskua, Naragsak nga paskua kon barung nga tawon, Nollaig Chridheil, Maa-yong Paskwa, Natal ni shub kaamnao, Krist Yesu Ko Shuva Janma Utsav Ko Upalaxhma Hardik Shuvakamana, Kuwa na Krismasi njema, Srechan Bozhich and a Happy and Blessed Christmas to all! Fa-la-la-la-la!
JEAN VER HOEVEN
jeanann@voicenet.com
Allenstown
■The Allenstown Town Clerk and Tax Collector hours for all services for Dec. 25 to Dec. 29. They will be closed on Dec. 25, 26. Open Dec. 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Dec. 28 open 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and closed on Friday.
■The 2023 Christmas Lighting Contest winners are first place Cheryl Forsberg, second place the Dumont family, third place Earle Rowell. Fire Dept. choice is Cheryl Forsberg and Police Dept. choice is Bonnie Gawrys. The awards consisted of trophies and gift certificates to local businesses. Congratulations and wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!
■The ornaments with gift suggestions from the Giving Tree will need to be returned as soon as possible to St. John the Baptist Parish Hall.
CLAUDETTE VERVILLE
cverville2@comcast.net
BOSCAWEN
■Season’s greetings and best wishes for a happy, healthy, and joyous holiday season!
■Christmas Eve services will be held, tonight, at the Boscawen Congregational Church beginning at 6 p.m.
■High Street Coffee House at the Boscawen Congregational Church starts the New Year off on Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. with the Heather Pierson Duo. Ms. Pierson is a singer/songwriter, pianist, songleader and performer. She performs with partner/bassist, Shawn Nadeau. A full line of open mic musicians and poets follow and take the stage . Doors open at 6:30 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m. Bring your appetite as there is a great array of refreshments for a light dinner or simply a sweet or salty snack. Admission is free, though a donation basket is passed. To sign up for ‘open mic,’ email Liz at HighStreetCoffeeHouse@gmail.com or call Chris at 603-520-9196 with any questions. This event is sponsored by the Boscawen Congregational Church.
■The Town of Boscawen will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday at 6 p.m. in the 4th floor meeting room at the Boscawen Municipal Complex to take public testimony regarding the receipt of unanticipated revenue. The Town has received two one-time payments, in excess of $10,000 and House Bill 2 states that the payments can be used for maintenance, construction and reconstruction of municipality-owned bridges or highways. These payments create the need for a public hearing per order of the Select Board.
■The Writer’s Workshop meeting is canceled for December. Their next meeting is on Jan. 29 at 6 p.m.
■Town Offices and the Library will be closed on Dec. 25 and Dec. 26 for the holiday and Jan. 1.
MARY ALLARD
boscawenpl@gmail.com
BRADFORD
■Fire Chief Bryan Nowell stated that during the Holiday Celebration, the old 1929 Engine 1 was filled with donated food for the food pantry. This was accomplished in partnership with Parks and Recreation. So far this year, the Fire Department has had 188 calls which is down from last year’s 205. They are closing out their Fema Grant (about $9,000) that was received for firefighters who didn’t have gear or had expired gear. Also a reminder of the Red Cross Blood Drive at the Firestation on Jan. 4. To sign up contact the Fire Chief at firechief@bradford.org.
■Road Agent Steve Hall advised the new grader is in the process of having the wing installed in preparation of snow. At this time the highway budget is being finalized. Hall also indicated that the roads are posted and there are parking bans in place. This has been in effect since November and will be in place through March. To help the highway crew do their job, please respect these postings.
MARGE CILLEY
mgcilley@gmail.com
CANTERBURY
■The library will be closed through Dec. 26 for Christmas. We will be closed on Dec. 30 and Monday, Jan. 1 for New Year’s Eve.
■LEGO Drop-in: Looking for something to do on school vacation? Come to the library on Thursday, Dec. 28 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for LEGOs! (We will also have a bin of Duplos set out for our youngest patrons.) This is a parent-supervised activity.
■Mark your calendars: January: Laurie Lockwood – Permaculture Gardens on Jan. 4 at 6 p.m. Town Hall. January: John Allen – NH of SKIS on Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. Meeting House
■The Town Offices will also be closed on Monday, Dec. 25 and Monday, Jan. 1.
RACHEL BAKER
bakercompany4@gmail.com
CHICHESTER
■Fun at the library during school vacation week. The library, with its extensive collection of LEGOs, invite all ages to come and join and use your imagination skills in building with LEGOs on Dec. 26 at 10:30 a.m.
■Chichester Central School and Pembroke Academy are on holiday break and return to regular hours on Jan 2.
■The Board of Selectmen will meet on Jan. 2 at 6 p.m. at town hall. School Board will meet at the school at 6 p.m. to work on the budget on Jan. 3. The Planning Board will meet for discussion of their agenda on Jan. 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the fire station. Agenda is posted at town hall.
■Hope In Christ Church welcomes everyone to their Christmas Eve Service starting at 4:30 p.m.
■Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
EVELYN PIKE
broomtailfarm@hotmail.com
DUNBARTON
■Holiday Schedules: Dec.25 Town Offices are closed all day for the holiday. School holiday recess is Dec. 25 through Jan 1. The library will be open on Dec. 23, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The library will be closed on Dec. 26. The library will be closed on Dec. 30. The library will be open on Jan. 2, noon to 7 p.m. No Story Time at the library on Dec. 27. At this time Chair Yoga is scheduled for Dec. 28 at 11 a.m. Contact the library for more information.
■Dunbarton’s monthly PTO meeting will be held in the DES teacher’s lounge on Jan. from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. A Zoom link will also be provided. Agendas will be sent out on ParentSquare and posted at dunbartonpto.com/meeting-agendas-minutes (Meeting Agendas & Minutes — Dunbarton PTO).
■The Dunbarton Library announces “Henry Dearborn 1751-1829 From Captain to Cabinet Secretary” presented by George Morrison on Jan. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the Upper Town Hall. George Morrison explores the life and career of Henry Dearborn, born in North Hampton in 1751. He began his career as a young doctor before joining the Continental Army, where he served for over eight years. Post-war he served two terms in Congress, later as a cabinet secretary, and was, before retiring in 1824, President Monroe’s Minister to Portugal. But in 1818, he found himself in the middle of a controversy that would extend to 1843. This program is made possible by a generous grant from the New Hampshire “Humanities to Go.”
NORA LEDUC
noleduc2000@yahoo.com
EPSOM
■Have a great Christmas! Take time to celebrate with your family and friends. Wishing you all the best!
■Planning Board Public Hearing: Zoning Amendments will meet on Wednesday at ECS in cafeteria at 7 p.m.
■The town office will be closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. The Board of Selectmen will meet on Tuesday at 6 p.m. Town of Epsom Select Board Notice of a Public Hearing Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. (1596 Dover Road, Lower Level of the Meetinghouse)
■Bedtime Story Time continues on Thursday at 6 p.m. and includes books and calming movements. Mahjong meet at 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday. Knitters Group on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Bouncing babies meet Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Bone Builder Tuesday and Thursday at 9 a.m. There will no Thinker Thursday the week of Dec. 28.
■Life-Size Candyland: Join us on Dec. 27 from 10:30 to 12:30 p.m. for Life-Size Candyland! Sign up in the library, email Miss Hannah at youth.services@epsomnh.org, or respond ‘Going’ to the Facebook event (if you sign up through Facebook Miss Hannah will get in touch to find a time slot that works for you). There will be no Story Time on Dec. 27 due to our Candyland event.
■Movie Matinees: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m.: Oppenheimer
■ECS no school Holiday Recess Dec. 25 through Jan. 1. On Jan. 2 the 8th grade baby pictures and congratulatory messages are due.
■December marks the official opening of New Hampshire’s Fuel Assistance Program (FAP), which helps vulnerable New Hampshire families with their heating bills. FAP aids families and seniors whose annual household income is at or below 60% of the State Median Income. To apply to the program, residents should contact their local Community Action Program (CAP) Agency (603) 225-3295.
■Presidential Primary Election is Jan. 23, Epsom Bible Church, 398 Black Hall Rd., from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
TERRY RIEL
rielt397@gmail.com
Henniker/Weare
■Weare’s 1st public hearing for 2024 proposed Zoning Amendments is Thursday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m., town office conference room.
■Students in Mrs. LaBrie’s Creative Cooking class at John Stark Regional High School baked cat and dog treats to be donated to the Hearts and Tails Animal Alliance. They wish the animals the best for the year ahead and hope they get a furrever happy home.
■The Supervisors of the Checklist will be in session on Jan. 15, from 10 to 10:30 a.m. (and for extended hours at the discretion of the Supervisors) at the Weare Town Clerk’s Office, 15 Flanders Memorial Rd., for corrections to the checklist.
■Matt Shapiro, the owner of MDS Welding in Weare, recently came to welding classes along with three of his staff for two days of demonstrations for John Stark students. In addition to running stick and MIG stations for students, Matt talked with them about his career in welding and how he progressed from his start as a one-man shop to a business where he employs 13 people.
■John Stark Regional High School seniors Ella Smith and Kayleigh Megowen and Junior Emmerson Brown will be representing John Stark and New Hampshire at the New England Music Festival Association’s March 2024 concert festival. Kayleigh and Emmerson will be playing with band and Ella will be performing with chorus. Emmerson was also chosen for the Classical All-State festival and Ella was chosen for both Jazz and Classical All-State.
TOM DUNN
dunn.t@comcast.net
Pembroke
■Pembroke Community Power plans to launch March 1. Information letters detailing the benefits and how to be part of Pembroke Community Power or to opt out are being mailed starting Jan. 22. The Pembroke Energy Committee is hosting a public informational meeting on Jan. 31 at 6:30 p.m. in the Pembroke Academy Auditorium to explain how Pembroke Community Power works, provide some historical electricity cost data, and to answer customer questions. This event is free and open to the public. For more information: PembrokeEnergyCommittee@gmail.com or pembroke-nh.com/energy-committee.
■Merry Christmas everyone!
JOCELYN CARLUCCI
taihi@comcast.net
Pittsfield
■A traditional candlelight service will be held on Dec. 24, at 7 p.m., at the First Congregational Church, 24 Main St., Pittsfield. The service includes music by the Chancel Choir, the JuBellation Handbell Choir, the story of the first Christmas, and the singing of “Silent Night.” Parking and wheelchair access are available at the rear of the church at Chestnut Street. For information, call 603-435-7471.
■The Greater Pittsfield Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone who worked to make the Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration a great success. Thank you to PES PTO, Suncook Valley Rotary Club, PMHS Boys & Girls Basketball teams, the Joyce Family, Pittsfield Players, Stoneboat Farm, Victory Workers 4-H Club, Circle of Home & Family members, Pittsfield Main Street Variety and Paul Rogers, Parks & Recreation Committee, Roberta Maxfield & Robin O’Malley, Pittsfield Police Association, Bob Giegerich, Clayton Wood, PYW, Josiah Carpenter Library staff, volunteers that made all the hot food, Liz Dimmick, Granite Image, Pittsfield FD, Pittsfield Police Department, Corinthian Lodge Masons, Louie Houle, Bob Bradley, Fuzz Freese and Trent. A very special thank you to Mark Riel for all the behind the scenes help with all the logistics, could not do it without you!
ANDREA RIEL
pittsfieldtowncrier@hotmail.com
Warner
■Make plans for the new year! Consider a 2024 Flower Subscription with Half Moon Blooms Flower Farm. Go to halfmoonbloms.org or visit on Facebook. White Horse Pottery will run a beginner wheel throwing class on Tuesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon. for nine weeks starting Jan. 16. For more information call 603-456-3031 or email jnattrf@gmail.com. Kearsarge Beekeepers Association will offer Bee School on five Saturday mornings from Jan. 27 through Feb. 24. The $80 fee is for individuals or families and includes the textbook and a one-year membership to the association. Register at kbaNH.org or call 603-398-8116.
■Dust off your acting chops! Audition for Olympus on My Mindon Jan. 21, 1 to 3 p.m. or Jan. 22, 5 to 7 p.m. at Warner Town Hall. Bring a prepared song. Show dates are in April. Email Gary at diet1@comcast.net with questions.
■The NH Presidential Primary will be held on Jan. 23, with voting from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Warner Town Hall. Volunteer ballot counters are needed and must be registered Warner voters. Ballots are counted by hand at the close of each election until all ballots are counted. Please call or visit the Town Clerk’s office to sign up or email kathy.carson50@gmail.com.
ELIBET CHASE
warnertowncrier@gmail.com
Webster
■The Webster First Congregational Church will hold a Christmas Eve service today at 7 p.m. All are welcome.
■My Town Crier email has changed because Google erased my old account. I’m always looking for news so feel free to let me know the information.
■Although the library will be closed the week of the 24, it will be open regular hours (noon to 4 p.m.) today and next Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Town offices will be closed tomorrow, Christmas Day and again on Jan.1.
NANCY PICTHALL-FRENCH
jobar2003@yahoo.com