Concord/Penacook

■Christmas sign-ups have started at Friends of Forgotten Children. If you reside in Merrimack County and are in need of holiday help, you can stop by the office, located at 224 Bog Rd., to sign up; no requests will be accepted by phone. Sign-ups are being held on Tuesdays 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Proof of residency/guardianship for each child you are signing up is needed. Children age birth to 18 are eligible. Christmas sign-ups will be accepted until November 18. Dates and times are subject to change at the discretion of the director, it is best to call the office at (603) 753-4801 before stopping by the office.

■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

■The Zonta Club announces its Holiday Auction on Nov. 29 at 5:30 p.m., with live auction and silent auctions and prizes to support women and girls. It’s at the Holiday Inn, 172 N. Main St. Tickets are $25 for the first ticket and $20 for each additional. Earlybirds can purchase tickets online at zontaclubofconcordnh.org/2023-holiday-auction/ before Wednesday or at the door for $30.

■Feeling stuck and uncertain? It’s time to turn “I don’t know” into “I can.” Join the free online Midweek Mini Retreat to get Unstuck on Tuesday and Dec. 12 at noon. Reserve at eventbrite.com/e/a-midweek-mini-retreat-to-get-unstuck-concord-tickets-735165579037?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse.

■NHTI has been recognized as a top U.S. colleges for online degrees in public service supporting, protecting and improving quality of life by STEPS. More at NHTI.edu/academics/onlinelearning.

■On Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., it’s the Christmas Fair in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Hall, 180 Loudon Rd. Enjoy meals, raffles, silent auction, baked goods, handmade crafts, jewelry, children’s activities! Get the information at ihmnh.weebly.com/uploads/4/5/8/2/45822949/christmas_fair_nov._18-19_2023.pdf.

■There’s more at IHM. Sundays at 9 a.m. it’s OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) in the Rectory Office. For anyone interested in becoming Catholic, for Catholics who have been away or are missing a Sacrament, contact emullen77@gmail.com or 224-4393 x3.

■Gibson’s Bookstore welcomes author Michael Cunningham to the Bank of New Hampshire Stage on Nov. 27 at 7 p.m., for a discussion of the new novel, Day, part of Authors on Main! A signing follows the event. Tickets available at ccanh.com/show/michael-cunningham-on-main.

■On Wednesdays at Heights Branch Library, 14 Canterbury Rd., at 9:30 a.m. learn about eBooks, downloadables, library databases and other questions. Bring your own device or borrow their Chromebook.

■GoodLife Programs & Activities, 254 N. State St., presents a Bereavement Coordinator on Thursday at 10 a.m. There is no cost or registration. Call 724-6689 or email Jplitman@bayada.com with any questions. Join this fun class on Fridays through Jan. 12 from 9:45 to 10:40 a.m. that offers something for everyone, regardless of your current fitness level, also at GoodLife. This class will improve your strength, flexibility and balance through low impact cardio exercise. Cost is $50. You must register in advance.

■Run or walk a 5K course on Saturday at 8 a.m. beginning at the Banks Humane Education Center, 95 Silk Farm Rd., across from Pope Memorial SPCA, taking you to the grounds of St Paul’s School and back to the SPCA!

■Community Players present The Sound of Music on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. at the City Auditorium, 2 Prince St. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for juniors/seniors. You can get information at communityplayersofconcord.org or call 344-4747.

■Are you looking to build your workforce? Interested in exploring registered apprenticeship as a career option? Look no further than the ApprenticeshipNH Summit on Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at NHTI.

■The Thanksgiving Table won’t be complete without a festive Turkey Photo Holder, built by your own little DIYer. Join the Kids’ DIY-U Workshop, 90 Fort Eddy Road, on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for this festive Kids Workshop where we’ll provide everything to create a memorable table decoration that you’ll be thankful to have.

■Our ancestors moved about seeking economic opportunities, religious freedom and connections with friends and family but are notoriously difficult to track. The New England Historic Genealogical Society offers help for $35 for members; $50 for nonmembers on Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. at New Hampshire Historical Society, 30 Park St. Space is limited and registration is required. Register for Tracing Ancestors on the Move online through Eventbrite.com.

■Join the Unitarian Universalist Church Family, 274 Pleasant St., for Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday. Suggested price $10 for adults, kids free. All are welcome regardless of ability to pay. Buy your tickets and sign up to help at uuconcordnh.breezechms.com/form/5e814b.

■You can see the In The Field Irish Dancers, Santa and many more entrants in the 72nd Christmas Parade on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. The parade route is Hazen Drive to Loudon Road to Canterbury Road ending at 70 Pembroke Rd. There will be a Street Closure from 7 a.m. to noon at Loudon Road from Hazen Drive to Canterbury Road; and Canterbury Road to #70.

■There’s another closure on Saturday for Girls on the Run 5K Road Race from 9:45 a.m. to noon at South Fruit St. will be closed between Clinton St. and Pleasant St.

JEAN VER HOEVEN

jeanann@voicenet.com

ALLENSTOWN

■Car registrations for Allenstown Residents and Allenstown Town Clerk/Tax Collector Hours for all services are Nov.13 to Nov.16 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Allenstown Town Hall, 16 School St.

■Christmas in the Village will be held on Dec. 3, from 1 to 4 p.m. on Main Street, Pembroke. There will be a lot of special events, visit with Santa, hayrides, wagon rides, face painting, cookie decoration, ballon art, children’s crafts and music and entertainment. This is a free event and sponsored by the Pembroke Women’s Club.

■The Suncook Knights of Columbus will be hosting their monthly meal on Saturday, Nov.18 starting at 5 p.m. at St.John the Baptist Parish Hall. Serving meatloaf with gravy, mashed potatoes, vegatables, salad, desserts and drinks. Cost is $10 per adult, $30. or a family with children under 16.

■The Suncook Senior Center will be serving Thanksgiving meal on Nov. 16 at 12 p.m. and ask that you sign up soon as possible or call 603 485-4254. The meal is turkey, mashed potato, gravy, peas and carrots, cranberry sauce.

■Friday Bingo will be held on Nov. 17 at 10 a.m.

CLAUDETTE VERVILLE

cverville2@comcast.net

BOSCAWEN

■If you and/or your family is facing food insecurities, you may apply for the Capital Region Food Program’s Holiday Project. Boscawen is an eligible community and applications for the program will be accepted at the town offices until Nov. 30. One time use vouchers will be distributed on Dec. 16 and they are redeemable to participating Market Basket locations.

■The Book Discussion Group at the Boscawen Public Library is meeting on Tuesday at 2 p.m., to share their feedback on the novel “The Maid” by Nita Prose. The book explores what it means to be the same as everyone else and yet entirely different and reveals that all mysteries can be solved through connection to the human heart. Additional copies are available at the library for those who don’t attend the discussion.

■Your local library offers a variety of activities in addition to a great selection of books and movies. Storytime on Wednesdays at 10 a.m., open to preschoolers, is not just stories but music, arts and crafts. Strengthening exercises are done at the Bone Builder classes on Monday and Friday from 9 to 10 a.m. and stretching is the focus of Yoga held on Wednesdays from 9 to 10 a.m. Crafters gather on Mondays at 2 p.m. to work on their projects. Writers share their stories and get tips from the group facilitator at their workshop on the last Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

MARY ALLARD

boscawenpl@gmail.com

BRADFORD

■5 Acres on Route 103 will be hosting a Small Business Day on Nov. 25. This event will offer a 10% discount on everything with the exception of grain and farm supplies. They are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you haven’t stopped by, it would be a good time and if you have, you know what a great variety they carry. Phone them at 938-2497.

■Girl Scouts will be meeting at the Bradford Area Community Center on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.

■At the Bradford Area Community Center, there will be Dominos served beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday.

■The Bradford Trail Maps have been updated and they may be picked up at Brown Memorial Library on West Main Street.

MARGE CILLEY

mgcilley@gmail.com

CHICHESTER

■Families in need of a Thanksgiving food basket can apply at the town office. The contact is Kristy at 798-5350, ext. 201. Applications are due by Nov. 16.

■A recent revaluation of the town has been completed. The BOS has given notice that the 2023 tax rate will be reduced by nearly 40 percent. By NH State law property taxes can not be due any earlier than Dec. 1.

■The library will hold their last Down Under Book Sale on Nov. 18 starting at 9 a.m. A great selection of books, DVDs, puzzles and games will be available. The PTO Craft Fair will be held Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with local crafters, vendors and a food truck.

EVELYN PIKE

broomtailfarm@hotmail.com

DUNBARTON

■Dunbarton Garden Club presents UNH Master Gardener Henry Homeyer on Monday at 6:30 p.m. The presentation “Tips For Growing Great Flowers Including Old Favorites and Lesser Known” will be on the second floor of the town hall on 1004 School St. Refreshments will be served, and the public is encouraged to attend. DGC Meeting follows the presentation. Contact dgc03046@gmail.com if you have any questions.

■Dunbarton Historical Society Presents “General John Stark” by George Morrison on Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. at the St. John’s Episcopal Church Hall, 270 Stark Highway North, Dunbarton. Thanks To NH Humanities Council. Free and open to all.

■The Spireside Coffee House Open Mic will be Nov. 18. Door opens at 6 p.m. Performers, please sign up as you enter. Show starts at 6:30 at the Dunbarton Congregational Church in the Center of Dunbarton. $5 donation. Snacks and drinks are available – donations appreciated. Contact Lizz@dccucc.org for more info.

NORA LEDUC

noleduc2000@yahoo.com

FRANKLIN

■Youth Art Class at Franklin High School Cafeteria will take place Monday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Support the juniors with a fun art class led by members of the class. Email Savaughna Slocum at savslo@gm.sau18.org to reserve your canvas. Cost is $8 per person when you arrive.

■Trivia Night at Waterhorse Irish Pub is Thursday from 7 to 8 p.m. Test your knowledge, make new friends, and earn bragging rights. Be sure to reserve your seats.

■Liz and Dan Faiella will play Folk music at the Franklin Public Library on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Liz and Dan Faiella bring to life the traditional music of their NH roots, while also conveying a wistfulness for their ancestral Ireland. Support the Franklin Opera House and its renovation by attending this event. Tickets available online at franklinoperahouse.org.

AMY and ANDREW DUGUAY

franklintowncrier@gmail.com

Henniker/Weare

■Congrats to Bourne Spooner at John Stark Regional High School as he signs the poster after being the first student to submit his college applications on Apply NH Day (formerly I Applied Day). Over 80 seniors participated in this event at John Stark. Application fees to New Hampshire 2- and 4-year colleges are waived on Apply NH Day.

■And Bourne was not the only fast John Stark student during the fall season – Field Hockey continues to make history winning the championship and soccer, football and cross country all competed in their respective end of season tournaments.

■John Stark Music is excited to kickoff their 2nd annual Rock Your Socks fundraiser as they enter the holiday season. This fundraiser not only supports the program as they begin raising funds for future trips and events, but will also impact the local community. Click the music department link: SUPPORT A STUDENT Select a student and SHOP AWAY!

■Henniker is looking for two part-time laborers/attendants. Call Marc Boisvert for more details: 603-428-7604.

TOM DUNN

dunn.t@comcast.net

Hopkinton

■The 2023 Turkey Trot race is being held on Thanksgiving morning. All proceeds will go directly to Hopkinton Human Services to help fund our food and fuel programs and Operation Holidays. Come run, walk, or skip along and support this important cause. For the top finishers, there will be great prizes donated by local businesses. Register online at HopkintonRec.com.

■Hopkinton Town Library Book Group meets Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the Hopkinton Town Library to discuss “The Salt Path” by Raynor Winn.

■Wood For Warmth work day at the Transfer Station is coming up. Mark your calendars for Nov. 18, starting at 9 a.m. More information at woodforwarmth.org.

KATHLEEN BUTCHER

kathb123@comcast.net

Pembroke

■Pembroke Energy Committee presents “Home Workshop Electrification” at 6 p.m. on Wednesday in the activity room of Pembroke Town Library. The Pembroke Energy Committee will discuss three home workshop electrification topics: Modern LED lighting solutions, Variable Frequency Drives for 3-phase motors, and Induction Furnaces for small scale forging and blacksmithing. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, write to PembrokeEnergyCommittee@gmail.com.

■The Friends of the Library is an active group of people who raise money and plan events for the Pembroke Library. They organize and support the book sale which is a continual fixture at the library. Books are sold at a cut rate price and all the money goes to support our library. New members are always welcomed – come to our meetings or just come to help with specific events. Call 485-7851 for more information or just stop in!

JOCELYN CARLUCCI

taihi@comcast.net

Pittsfield

■On Nov. 18, Suncook Valley Sno-Riders will sponsor a snowmobile course for children (at least 11 years old) from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pittsfield Community Center. Lunch is provided. Contact Joe Hough at 608-6977 to register. They will also host a Ham & Bean Dinner on from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Community Center. The costs are: Adults $10; children 6 to 12, $5; and ages under 6 are free. Menu is ham, variety of beans, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roll, drink and assorted desserts.

■The Dorcas Guild of the First Congregational Church, 24 Main St., will hold its 2023 Christmas Fair, Bake Sale and Silent Auction on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There are knits, crafts, ornaments, baked goods, the “Unique Boutique,” and more! The auction ends at 2 p.m. Wheelchair accessibility is through the rear door. For more info, call 435-7471.

■St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will be holding its annual Holly Fair on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 50 Main St. The Fair will have holiday crafts and decorations, baked goods, a silent auction, and “New-to-You” items. The St. Stephen’s Cafe will be open serving meatball sandwiches, “Chuckwagon” stew, squash soup and a variety of beverages.

ANDREA RIEL

pittsfieldtowncrier@hotmail.com

Warner

■Meetings of American Legion Post 39 in Warner are held for the winter in the basement of the Telephone Museum. Join other veterans at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month with upcoming gatherings on Nov. 14, Dec. 12 and Jan. 9. New members welcome; more information at post39warnernh.org or by contacting Post Commander Charles Trowbridge at 456-2992.

■Music is all around! Kearsarge Chorale presents The Road Home on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 3 p.m. at Kearsarge Regional High School. Tickets are $10, ($5 for students) and may be purchased at kearsargechorale.org/ or at the door. Reed’s North on Main Street hosts Saturday Tavern Nights with music starting at 6 p.m. Or, display your own talent at Café One East at Second Tuesday Open Mic Nights, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Next opportunity is Nov. 14.

■Warner Fire Rescue’s annual Turkey Raffle will be held Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. Buy a chance to win turkeys, hams, gift cards, and other prizes. Cash prize raffle tickets can also be bought at Sugar River Bank. For more information or If you would like to donate a prize, visit the Warner Fire Rescue Facebook page.

ELIBET CHASE

warnertowncrier@gmail.com

Webster

■Get out your fancy pink dress and polish your pink high heels because the “Barbie” movie is coming to the Webster Free Public Library as their November Free Friday Film on Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. Snacks and comfy chairs are always provided.

■The assessing company of Commerford Nieder Perkins, LLC has recently completed a valuation update of all properties within the Town of Webster for the 2023 tax year. Due to market fluctuations, values of properties within the town have appreciated at different rates. Therefore, it is not relevant to compare the old assessed value with the new assessed value. For more details, go to webster-nh.gov.

■The Webster Holiday Craft Fair will be on Dec. 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is sponsored by the First Congregational Church of Webster at the Town Hall, 945 Battle St. If you are a craftsperson and would like to participate as a vendor, please send Elaine Hashem a message on Facebook.

NANCY PICTHALL-FRENCH

jobar2003@yahoo.com