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Hats for Tara raises funds for North guidance counselor

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:04 EST

Over the last few months, Nashua High School North students have organized and participated in a number of fundraisers to benefit the Nashua community. One of the latest fundraisers at North just goes to show how dedicated the Titans are in helping others out. The Hats for Tara project, started by North science teacher Carrie Beach, benefits North guidance counselor Tara Veit, whoâs battling breast cancer. The projects aims to raise money though the sale of hats hand-knitted by community volunteers; for weeks, students at North have been knitting and selling hats. âI started this fundraiser as not only a way to raise money for the Veit family, but also to make hats to donate to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute,â Beach said. Beach is in charge of the North Science National Honor Society, which has been a driving force behind the fundraiser. It has hosted multiple sessions to teach members of the North community the craft of knitting. âItâs really great to know how much weâre helping the Veit family,â junior Theresa Inzerillo said. âThis fundraiser has not only been meaningful for everyone in Science Honor Society, it has also been fun.â But the hats arenât the only way in which the public can get involved.

HBHS among schools preparing for FIRST challenge

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:09 EST

Imagine a 70,000-seat arena packed with screaming fans. Cheerleaders and mascots roam through the crowd. On the field, the spectacle of competition is on full display. And at halftime, the Black Eyed Peas take the stage and perform. Now imagine that this isnât the Super Bowl, nor any other professional sporting event. These are high school students, and the athletes on the field are robots. This is FIRST Robotics. The National Academy of Engineering, the National Science Foundation, the leaders of top universities and the president of the United States all agree: In order for our nation to remain economically competitive and technologically innovative, we must improve our national scholastic performance in the STEM fields â science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Students in the United States now rank 23rd in science and 31st in math out of 65 developed nations, and fewer and fewer scholars are going to universities to pursue STEM careers. âIf America is to win the future of invention and discovery, we must first capture the minds and imaginations of young scientists and innovators,â FIRST Robotics founder Dean Kamen said. âMore than 20 years ago, after realizing that the way to get kids interested in science and technology would be to give them a sport to succeed in, I founded FIRST, a program that encouraged students to pursue STEM careers through robotics competitions.â The name seemed appropriate; after all, kids donât run around with their arms in the air yelling that theyâre going to be SECOND. Two decades later, FIRST has hundreds of thousands of alumni in more than 50 countries. These veterans are three times as likely as their peers to study engineering and are more likely to secure internships, pursue STEM careers and volunteer in their communities. The key component of FIRST isnât the thrill of building a high-functioning robot â although thatâs pretty cool.

Alvirne studentsâ hearts set on celebrating Valentineâs Day â or not

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:15 EST

Love is in the air at Alvirne High School. With Valentineâs Day fast approaching, students have been daydreaming about their sweethearts in class or revolting against the mushy holiday every time itâs mentioned. Some are anticipating roses and chocolates galore, while others detest even the idea of valentines and will celebrate Singles Awareness Day instead. With the help of a few Alvirne programs being run especially for the day of love, students can celebrate or mock traditional Valentineâs Day customs to their heartsâ content. Starting last Tuesday and continuing through V-Day, horticulture and retail class students have been selling roses and carnations of various colors to students at all lunches. Roses are $2 and carnations are $1, and will come as a sweet surprise to a crush or even a friend at their delivery on Valentineâs Day during the recipientâs I or J period class. Profits go to the floristry program and will be well used by the horticulture students. Alternatively, Alvirneâs Class Act drama group will offer âFools for Love,â in which one of the student actors dresses up in a jester costume and visits students in I or J period classes on Valentineâs Day to recite a sonnet to them.

Souhegan kicks off Poetry Out Loud season

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:20 EST

This is Souhegan High Schoolâs second year of competing in the Poetry Out Loud contest. The program started in spring 2006 after successful pilots in Washington, D.C., and Chicago. Tens of thousands of students participated in its first year, and the competition has only grown since then, with nearly 365,000 students participating in the 2010-11 season. âI heard about Poetry Out Loud in my first year here at Souhegan,â said Jeanne Sturges, Souheganâs writing specialist. âUnfortunately, though, I found out about it too late to enter the high school into the competition. âI went and saw the competitions of other high schools in the neighboring towns and I knew that I had to involve Souhegan in this competition next year.â The entire school participates in the competition. Sturges has words of encouragement for those who feel uneasy in the recitation of poetry. âAlthough the idea of memorizing a poem and reciting it can create anxiety and stress for some students, it is a life experience that the students will carry with them throughout their lives,â Sturges said. The competition involves public speaking, a helpful asset to have in the real world.

NCA seniors discover themselves through their writing

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:25 EST

Each of our minds is wired in a unique way; the beauty of mankind is in its diversity. One of the most moving methods of expressing our unique thought is in our writing. Quirks hide in our sentence structure and our ideas come forward as though in boldface. Writing is an important part of youth because itâs a helpful tool in self-discovery. As we write, our minds take off in a whirlwind of contemplation. Our minds set foot into the murky waters of original thought.

BG Ski Club enjoys trips filled with fun

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:30 EST

Tuesday marked the end of another great skiing season with the Bishop Guertin Ski Club. The club is composed of about 60 students who either ski or board. Every week starting Dec. 3, the club left in a coach bus headed to Gunstock Mountain at 2:30 p.m. and arrived there around 4. Skiers and snowboarders were instructed to return to the bus by 7 by the club moderators â science teacher Edward Auclair, math teacher William Lambert and nurse Kerry Turner.

Merrimack High puts a twist on âMacbethâ

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:35 EST

If Merrimack High School is flooded with something, itâs talent. That talent was showcased on Feb. 2, when MHSâ theater troupe showcased its take on William Shakespeareâs tragedy âMacbeth.â The troupe, directed by MHS theater veteran Timothy LâEcuyer, brought several interesting alterations to the classic play while keeping the context intact. One of the most intriguing changes was the role of the Three Witches. Two or three actors played one witch at a time â Adam Beauparlant, Nathan Floyd, Emily Harnedy, Sierra Jones, Kaitlyn McGee, Jared Reynolds and Tabitha Whatcott â and they kept their lines synchronized with impressive accuracy. Their tone was stern, loud and almost frightening to the audience. It was as if they demanded your attention as they shouted and banged on the stage floor. Their movements were made into a stiff, jointed type of ballet choreographed by Alexander Davis that kept the audienceâs interest in the play. The three main characters â Macbeth, Lady Macbeth and Banquo â were pulled from the audience and practically forced onto the stage by the Witches.

Southâs NHS students have a ball at charity event

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:40 EST

Teens across the state danced the night away at the annual Charity Ball on Saturday night. Hosted by New Hampshireâs chapter of the National Honor Society, the dance gave students a unique opportunity to branch out and make some new friends. Students from high schools all over New Hampshire were invited to join, drawing a diverse crowd. NHS members and nonmembers alike could buy tickets for $30 for one student or $50 for a couple. In addition, Nashua High School Southâs members even received NHS credit for attending. âI initially planned on going to the Charity Ball to earn credits for NHS, but the closer it came, the more excited I got about meeting other scholars around the state,â said senior Courtney Mansfield, a member of the NHS at South. Despite the fact that many students came with friends, comfort zones were transcended as groups mingled with each other.

Campbell High takes the plunge for Special Olympics

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:02:39 EST

Campbell High School participated in the fourth annual Penguin Plunge, a fundraiser for the Special Olympics of New Hampshire, on Feb. 4 at Hampton Beach. Students who participated were senior John Cialek and juniors Tyler Guarino and Jason Rodonis. Even CHS staff members joined the good cause, as paraprofessional Bobby Allan and librarian Andrea Ange volunteered. The Penguin Plunge raises money for the Special Olympics by getting people from high schools throughout the state to collect donations. Each member must raise at least $150. Ange went the whole distance this year by collecting a total of $480. Altogether, the high school portion of the event collected $179,688 for Special Olympics. But the question is: Why is the Penguin Plunge so successful? Well, simply because the participants donât only have to raise money, they also have to jump into the freezing Atlantic Ocean. This year, the Plunge had 483 participants, and every single one of them jumped into the water. A video of all the participants taking the brave dive is available at www.sonh.org. Allan and Rodonis jumped into the water with nothing but tank tops and bathing suits, and also the thousands of goose bumps that shriveled their bodies. When I asked Rodonis if he could describe the temperature of the water for me, he simply said a word I canât use in the newspaper. But after that, he said, âIt was worth it, though, because itâs for a good cause and I donât regret it at all.

Religious News & Events - February 11, 2012

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:00:42 EST

NASHUA ARLINGTON STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Sunday worship begins at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Bruce Bradshaw, and childrenâs Sunday School is from 9:30-10:30 a.m. On Feb.

United Way to address Nashuaâs greatest needs with Bank of America grant

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:02:09 EST

United Way of Greater Nashuaâs efforts to support proven effective programs that address the regionâs most pressing human service needs received a big boost recently with a $13,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation. The grant will be applied to several United Way-supported programs that collectively serve more than 23,000 children, families, and elderly area residents and produce positive outcomes, including enhanced learning skills, financial stability, and better health. âDuring a time when non-profit organizations are seeing much greater demand for services and reduced government assistance, this grant represents an important partnership in United Wayâs work to address our communityâs greatest health and human care needs,â Paul Hebert, UWGN president, said. United Wayâs work includes a periodic community needs assessment, which sets a clear course for investment of valuable resources in the most effective local programs. UWGNâs partnerships with non-profit agencies help families attain economic self sufficiency, improve the communityâs health, and help children reach their full potential. âOur longstanding support of United Way and its local agencies is based on a shared goal of strengthening communities and making opportunity possible,â said Ken Sheldon, Bank of America New Hampshire president. âThis grant will enhance several programs in the Nashua area that have already proven incredibly effective.â Submitted by Lisa Conti

Amherst club offers funds to local nonprofits

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:00:16 EST

AMHERST âThe Amherst Junior Womenâs Club invites nonprofit organizations in need of charitable contributions to apply for a donation. The club raises money throughout the year and then disburses the funds within the community. Request must follow these guidelines: The organization must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The organization doesnât need to have an Amherst address, but must serve the local community. The request must be submitted by March 31 in writing or by e-mail. The request must contain this information: The name of the organization, mailing address, e-mail address, Web site (if available), telephone number and contact name. Copy of 501(c)(3) letter. Amount requested. How the donated funds would be used. How the organization benefits Amherst and the greater community. How the organizationâs objective corresponds to the mission of the Amherst Junior Womenâs Club. A short history of the organization, including when it was established? How the organization is funded. The organizationâs annual budge, including any expected shortfalls. The club members volunteer their time, energy and talent to enhance the community. Its mission is to focus efforts on civic needs, educational advancement and the less fortunate. Funds will be distributed by June 15.

Otte, of Nashua, presented Eagle Scout award at Court of Honor

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:00:35 EST

Richard Otte, of Nashua, received his Eagle Scout award from Troop 410 at a Court of Honor held at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 3 Lutheran Drive, on Jan. 7. The Eagle Scout award is the highest advancement rank in Boy Scouting. About one out of every 20 Boy Scouts earned their Eagle award in 2011. To achieve the rank, a Boy Scout must first the rank of Life Scout, earn 21 Merit Badges, and plan, develop and lead a service project before age 18. The project can benefit any religious organization, school or community. Otte fundraised and led nearly 40 volunteers in creating a prayer garden and pathway at Christ the King. Otte graduated from Nashua High School South in 2011 and now attends the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, where heâs majoring in computer science.

Cocoa stand benefits Alzheimerâs Association in honor of Hudson boysâ great-grandfather

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:00:45 EST

HUDSON â Brandon and Tyler Blanchette will open their fourth annual âBig Papaâs Hot Cocoa Standâ on Sunday, Feb. 12, with all proceeds going to the Alzheimerâs Association. The first year, Brandon, now 14, and Tyler, 9, raised $500. The second and third years each brought $1,500 from the cocoa stand alone in sales and donations, with a donation match offered by the Dell Co. The Alzheimerâs Association has received just under $7,000 as a result, said their mother, Melissa Blanchette. The boys will run the cocoa stand from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in front of their home at 62 Ferry St. âBrandon came up with the idea four years ago while we were driving one day,â Melissa Blanchette said. âHe said, âMom, I want to have a hot cocoa stand.â âAt first, thinking he was just wanting to earn a little extra cash, I said, âBrandon, I would rather not.â Then he said, âNo, mom, I want to have a hot cocoa stand and donate all the money to the Alzheimerâs Association.ââ The request hit home for Blanchette because her grandfather, the boysâ great-grandfather (aka âBig Papaâ), Donald Hindle Sr., of Westerly, R.I., has Alzheimerâs disease.

Local girls compete to be Miss New Hampshireâs Outstanding Teen

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:00:51 EST

DERRY â Local teens will vie in the eighth annual Miss New Hampshireâs Outstanding Teen Competition. Preliminary competitions will be at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, and the finals will be at 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb.

âValentineâs Day Cabaretâ benefits Keystone Hall in Nashua

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:00:56 EST

NASHUA â A fun evening of song, dance and choreography to help Harbor Homesâ new Keystone Hall facility close in on its fundraising goal will take place this weekend. The âValentineâs Day Cabaret Dinner Showâ on Saturday, Feb. 11, will open at 5:30 p.m., with a buffet dinner set for 6 at Alpine Grove Banquet Facility, 19 S. Depot Road, Hollis. The show, produced by Lou Duhamel and Lorenzo Vigil, will start at 8, after which, dancing and socializing will continue to midnight. Those interested in the show and dancing only can arrive between 7:30 and 8 p.m. for a $20 admission, half the entire event admission of $40. Keystone, which recently held a dedication program and open house at the 615 Amherst St.

Nashua agency has programs to help build parenting skills

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:01:03 EST

NASHUA â Raising children can be a challenge, and parents with an earnest desire to do the best job possible are always on the lookout for tools and knowledge to enhance their own instincts and experience. The Family Resource Center of Greater Nashua has interactive programs available to build on parenting skills and to help families enjoy their time together and learn how to cope with the tricky situations that family life can sometimes bring. The group is a collaborative effort that includes Nashua organizations that serve families, and is led by the Adult Learning Center, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua, Child and Family Services, Greater Nashua Healthy Community Collaborative, Prevention Makes Cents, Southern New Hampshire Services and the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension-Hillsborough. Gina and Michael McGillick, of Hudson, are strong proponents of the parenting and family programs available at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua through the Family Resource Center, and have participated in a wide range that they feel have made a tremendous impact on their ability to parent well. The parents of four young children â Genarose, 4; Joshua, 2; Gianna, 17 months; and Jacob, 3 months â they first became acquainted with the programs when Gina McGillick suffered considerable postpartum depression.

Thank you for your contributions to dental care

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:37:33 EST

To the Editor: Dr. Harvey Weener and his staff at Landmark Dental Care of Nashua collaborated with Harbor Care Clinic, a program of Harbor Homes, Inc. for the second annual âLandmark Holiday Outreach Dayâ on Dec. 2.

Fire and police departments showed heroism during house fire

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:37:24 EST

To the Editor: On the night of Jan. 6, Dana, Joshua, the little girls, and I experienced a tragic loss when our home at 5 Sunblaze Drive was completely destroyed by a very fast moving fire. It is difficult to explain the grief of losing nearly everything we own, but we find ourselves so very grateful for the fact that, other than some minor burns, nobody in our family was harmed. We are extremely fortunate and completely understand it is far more important than any possession. Under most circumstances, I would be the last to publicly discuss such a matter so deeply personal, but this a very worthy exception.

Thank you to Fairgrounds School staff and students

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:37:26 EST

To the Editor: Thank you to Fairgrounds Middle School staff and students. Fairgrounds Middle School held a food drive to help the Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter deliver food to hungry families. The Fairgrounds Middle School National Junior Honors Society are grateful for the opportunity to be of service to the soup kitchen. The food drive ran from Nov. 28 through Dec.

Knights of Columbus thank community for blood donations

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:37:18 EST

To the Editor: The Hudson Knights of Columbus would like to thank everyone who took time to come to their Blood Drive on Dec. 3. Over 70 pints of much-needed blood was collected that day. What a way to start the Christmas season.

Merrimack Lions thank you for supporting Operation Santa

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:37:00 EST

To the Editor: The Merrimack Lioness Club would like to thank everyone who participated in our Operation Santa Project. To those of you who picked up a card at one of our locations and purchased one or more gifts, you have helped to make Christmas a little brighter for someone less fortunate! We would like to thank all of the locations who allowed us to have a tree: Merrimack Post Office, Merrimack Public Library, Total Chiropractic Health Center, Goldâs Gym at the Commons, Goldâs Gym on Amherst Street in Nashua, Hot Rize, Frankâs Place, and Merrimack Vision Care. To the Merrimack Firefighters and the Merrimack Lions Club for their very generous cash donations which allowed us to purchase food and gift certificates, a big thank you! Also a big thank you to James Mastricola Middle School teacher Diane Nocella for contributing 125 gifts from her students! All of the monies raised by our various projects throughout the year go right back to the community of Merrimack. If you are interested in learning more about our club, call President Marsha at 424-2241. Merrimack Lioness Club

Hollyn Elizabeth Davio

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:36:16 EST

HUDSON â Gary and Jessica Davio, of Hudson, announced the birth of their daughter Hollyn Elizabeth Davio, at 11:08 p.m. Nov. 4, 2011, at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, Nashua. Hollyn was 7 pounds, 6 ounces and 21 inches long at birth.

Grants to Youth Council help strengthen families

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:47:47 EST

NASHUA â The Youth Council, facing recent cuts in state-supported services for youths, decided to focus its energy on helping parents. âResearch shows that strengthening parenting skills goes a long way toward reducing stress at home,â said Betsy Abrahams, executive director. The agency has already helped 16 parents this year, affecting 30 children, through grant assistance from the TJX Foundation and the Citizens Bank Foundation. âOur parenting classes give parents a chance to expand their skills,â program director Christina Connor said, âand it helps to share their experiences with other parents struggling with similar issues.â The agency reports that last year, 84 percent of parents said the program helped reduce their stress and 89 percent reached the goals they set for their families. Classes for parents are offered for ages 1-4, 5-12 and teens. New classes are enrolling for a nominal fee. For more information, call Chris at 889-1090, ext. 301, or visit www.theyouthcouncil.org.

Brookline Womenâs Club hosts âGo Red for Womenâ event

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:30:46 EST

In celebration of âGo Red for Womenâ month, the Brookline Womenâs Club welcomes Dr. Linda Sheldon of SJâs Internal Medicine of Nashua on Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 7:30 p.m., at Richard Maghakian Memorial School. Go Red For Women is the American Heart Associationâs nationwide movement that celebrates the energy, passion and power we have as women to band together and fight heart disease, the No.

Margueriteâs Placeâs âLucky 13â Jazz & Juice fundraiser

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:40:00 EST

If just the mention of Friday the 13th has thoughts of superstition and mayhem swirling through your brain, then Margueriteâs Placeâs annual Jazz & Juice fundraiser might be just the thing to set your mind at ease. Set for Friday, April 13 at Nashua Country Club, Jazz & Juiceâs âLucky 13â theme offers up a night of fun for the over-21 crowd. Expect hot jazz, cool wines to sample, cold brews, and an ice-cold martini luge along with delectable food, the Lucky 13 game, and delicious desserts, all of which adds up to a fabulous way to support t Margueriteâs Place., Inc. of Nashua.

AARP driver safety classes target needs

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:10:00 EST

NASHUA â Mary Ellen Smith of Wilton recounts a story of driving one night at dusk with her husband, Dick. âThere was this great, big, beautiful full moon,â Smith said. âAnd I said to my husband, âIsnât that full moon beautiful?â And he said, âThat looks oval to me.â And I said, âOh-oh.ââ Smith said she waited a couple of days before approaching her husband about his ability to only see the moon, half full. She recommended that he get his eyes checked. ââAnd until we get things worked out,ââ Smith told her husband. âI think it would be better if I drove.ââ âYou know, itâs hard to say something like that diplomatically,â she said. The Smiths, along with a dozen other area residents, recently took an AARP Driver Safety Program class offered at St.

Wood or gas stoves provide heat when power goes out

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:10:00 EST

Those of us who live on back roads in small towns expect the power to be off from time to time. We have lots of trees, and we like it that way. Many residents, of course, have installed generators, but those who us who havenât done that yet have another source of heat, either wood or gas. Mine is my early-1900s cast iron cook stove, which was refurbished a few years ago and supplies wonderful heat.

Big Sister Syndi, Little Sister Malaysia find value in relationship, time

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:29 EST

A good friendship is something that takes time to nourish, grow and blossom. For Big Sister Syndi and Little Sister Malaysia, it has been well worth the time itâs taken for their friendship to develop. âGood relationships are not instantaneous,â Syndi said. Big Sister Syndi and Little Sister Malaysia have put in a lot of effort over the past year to build a lasting friendship and it has clearly paid off. When they spend time together, itâs not about what theyâre doing but how they spend their time. âWe donât have to be doing anything as long as weâre together,â Maylasia said. Her favorite thing to do with her big sister is spending time with each other, hanging out and talking.

Lilâ Iguanaâs Family Fun Day set; support from area businesses sought

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:35 EST

The Lilâ Iguanaâs Childrenâs Safety Foundation will hold its annual Lilâ Iguanaâs Family Fun Day in February and is looking for vendors and sponsors. The Lilâ Iguanaâs Childrenâs Safety Foundation is a nonprofit childrenâs safety foundation that uses an award-winning music-based program to teach children how to avoid child predators, abduction, abuse and serious accidental injuries. The foundation will be holding the 2012 Lilâ Iguanaâs Family Fun Day on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at Nashua High School South, 36 Riverside St. The event has already taken shape, and will be another successful day for young children, their families and area businesses. Lilâ Iguana is looking for support from businesses that would like to participate in this event.

Rotary supports teen area at Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:40 EST

NASHUA â The Rotary Club of Nashua recently contributed $15,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua, fulfilling its pledge to the BGCGN Capital campaign for a total contribution of $25,000. âThe Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua is extremely grateful to the Rotary Club of Nashua for their support of BGCGN programs,â Norm Bouthilette, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua, said. âThis donation helped to fund dedicated spaces for teen members where they participate in character and leadership development opportunities as well as education and career programming.â The Rotary Clubâs donation helps to support the redesign of the teen area of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua building. The teen center is integral to the Boys & Girls Clubâs leadership development programs; one of which is the Keystone Club, the clubâs premiere teen leadership group for ages 14 to 18. The Keystone Clubâs focus is creating opportunities and activities in academic success, career preparation, as well as community and club service.

Pets of the Week for Monday, Feb. 6

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:01:09 EST

Bo Iâm a big guy with a goofy personality just looking for someone to love me! Since Iâm so large, I will do best in an adult only home with experienced dog owners. Donât worry, even though Iâm a big guy, Iâve been working hard on my training and want to continue to do so in my new home. Iâm extremely smart and have a blast learning new skills. Not only is training fun because of all of the treats I get, but it is also a great outlet for my energy.

HBHS student finds different focus on education in Turkey

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:02:43 EST

By ISABEL STARR Hollis Brookline High School Merhaba! Selam! Hi! From all the way across the pond, Iâm Isabel Starr. I graduated a year early, in 2011, and instead of spending my fourth year at Hollis Brookline High School, I decided to go abroad to live in Ankara, Turkey, as an exchange student with the Rotary Youth Exchange program. Along with other American seniors, I suffered the application process last fall and was accepted by early decision to Wellesley College. But while I was continuously revising my short essays and navigating the common app, I was always struck by how little leeway there is for Turks trying to get into college. In the States, we apply to university through a series of tests and essays and grades and, well, really pretty much anything we can do to get into our top-choice schools. In Turkey, there is only one way to get into university: the dreaded Yuksek Ogretime Gecis Sinavi, more feared than any SAT. My friends here began studying for this test as freshmen, knowing itâs the only way to get into the schools they dream of â or any school at all. When theyâre seniors, most of them will bring doctorsâ notes to school saying they have some freakishly contagious disease: âdershane addiction.â Dershane is a special class where they go after school, on weekends or during pretty much whatever other free time they can find.

Alvirne NHS inducts 26 new members

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:02:49 EST

Scholarship, leadership, service and character: On Jan. 23, 26 Alvirne High School students learned the importance of these attributes not only as positive traits, but as the four pillars of the National Honor Society. The inductees into the Alvirne chapter of the National Honor Society were: Seniors Michael Dillman, Eric Dupont, Tyler Lambert, Cody Langlois, James Loshbaugh, Ryan Provencher and James Tomaswick. Juniors Amanda Arnoff, Aaron Bellomo, Amelia Bois-Rioux, Catrina Carson and Sarah Cross. Also, Michael DeMinico, Brandon Dumais, Jeremy Dutil, Livia Gosselin and Heather Hardy. Also, Tara Hardy, Jedediah Langlois, Daniel LeBourdais, Cameron McNally and Ryann McQuaid. Also, Samantha Migneault, Siddhardha Moparthi, Michael Sirvydas, Jonathan Stinson and James Tomaswick. A gym filled with proud friends, family and faculty rose at 6 that evening as current NHS members led the inductees to their seats for a memorable ceremony. âInduction was a huge success because there was such a good turnout, much higher than expected,â said senior Yashaswani Moparthi, the NHS vice president. âWe even ran out of programs.â After a short welcome by NHS senior President Ashley Felch to the students and their families, the dean of academics, Susan Bureau, addressed the inductees on the importance of character, saying itâs more important to be âgood peopleâ than to be âsmart people.â The elected faculty guest speaker, social studies teacher David Nesbitt, advised the inductees to keep their minds open to all possibilities in their futures. Moparthi and her fellow officers â Historian Kelly MacKay, Treasurer Kaela Craven and Secretary Adrienne Roxas, all seniors â each spoke about one of the four pillars of NHS. They emphasized that each of the inductees was not selected purely on scholarship, although grades were one deciding factor. Leadership experience, community service and exemplary character were held of equal importance. Each of the inductees was then called to the stage to receive a candle and cords to wear at graduation.

Longtime Nashua Christian Academy soccer coach retires

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:02:53 EST

After 11 years of coaching, 11 great seasons of many wins and losses, the girls varsity soccer coach, Michael Paul, has retired from that position at Nashua Christian Academy. As a player on the team, I can speak for all who have had him as coach in these past years and say how sad we are to see him go, but how thankful we were to have him. NCA athletics director Joshua Winans gave a speech announcing the retirement and commending âCoach Paulâ on his many years of coaching and support. âHe could have coached at any other school, but he chose this one,â Winans said. Several players recounted their time as players on the team after Winansâ speech and thanked him for his contributions as their coach. âHe always pushed me to run harder and wasnât afraid to yell at me,â senior Elyse Zagorites said. âIt was really great, because sometimes I just needed that push to do better. âIâll always have that voice telling me to run harder whenever I go running in the future.â Senior Kelsey Seremet, a goalie for two years, shared that she had known Coach since her older sister was on the team, but what really stood out to her was how supportive he was of her when she was asked to be goalie. âWhen we would do drills sometimes, he would help me train as a goalie,â Seremet said. âHe was always so encouraging and telling me that I could do this.â âOne time when we were going to an away game, the entire bus was decorated with quotes and words of affirmation and support. As you were looking around, one stood out at the very front: âI believe in you â Coach.â Having that kind of support was amazing.â Sophomore Hailey Moore said, âI remember at one game I had gotten the news that my mom was in the hospital minutes before the game.

DECA forms the future at Nashua South

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:02:58 EST

Most students join clubs to have an enjoyable activity, something to fill their afternoon schedule or maybe even because all their friends are in the group. However, there is one club at Nashua High School South that takes studentsâ interests far past the normal expectations. DECA, a national business organization, focuses on preparing students for their future. Its mission is to âprepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.â âDECA teaches us to not only be leaders in our school, but prepares us to be the leaders of tomorrow,â junior Martin Zhu said. Nashua South has many student leaders involved in DECA â Distributive Education Clubs of America â who have been preparing over the course of the year for the upcoming state competition, which will be Feb. 15-17 at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester. The clubâs officers are seniors Kelly McIntyre, president; San Pham, vice president; Trevor Haney, treasurer; James Halloran, secretary; Sagar Chitalia, state officer; and Liz Bresett, event manager. Students had a choice in the beginning of the year of whether they wanted to write a 30-page paper they would present to the judges or if they wanted to participate in a single or team role play in which they would have only a short amount of time to prepare for the presentation. Nashua South has 37 students participating in a variety of business categories in individual and team role plays, as well as papers. The four areas in which students chose role plays are finance, hospitality, marketing and management. âDECA has largely developed my business and leadership abilities,â senior Katie Bilodeau said, âand has helped prepare me for future success while also laying down a foundation of business knowledge and skills every student should possess.â Participants wrote papers on promoting financial literacy in our school; there are two public-relations campaigns â AIDS awareness and autism awareness; one paper proposed a strategic promotional plan to promote the Nashua Technology Center; a few wrote about plans for new businesses; and one wrote a research paper for a bakery that created a loyalty marketing program. Competition will start that Wednesday evening with role-playing students completing a 100-question multiple-choice test, and teams that wrote papers will begin their presentations.

WLC introducing competency-based grading

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:03:07 EST

The state requires a new way of grading for high school students based on competencies. Wilton-Lyndeborough Cooperative Middle/High School has decided to pilot a few classes using the new system, competency-based grading, this year, Principal Brian Bagley explained in a letter to parents. Five high school and two middle school teachers are a part of this program to see how well the system works for the students in the school. Teachers involved in the program are Dolores Neilan, William Fox, Shirley Schneider, Joyce Bourassa, David Shelsky, Eric Yannone and Josef Lambert. Competency-based grading assesses the studentsâ overall learning in particular categories relating to that class. A competency is a long-term course goal â what the teacher wants the student to learn by the end of the course. For example, Neilan, an English teacher, uses competencies such as writing, research, text analysis and critical thinking. This year, the school is having only a few classes use the system. Next year, each teacher will be piloting the new way of grading in one of his or her classes. Then in three years, this new grading system will be in full effect. Neilan said each student must reach a certain understanding level or grade of the specific competencies within that classâ subject matter; otherwise, he or she wonât pass the course.

North up for Excellence in Education Award

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:03:13 EST

Nashua High School North is in the running for the Excellence in Education Award, an honor given to deserving elementary, middle and high schools that demonstrate the highest quality of merit and respectability. On Tuesday, student, administrative and teacher representatives from North gave a presentation at Southern New Hampshire University to a panel of judges, highlighting various aspects of the school. Eleven representatives, including Principal David Ryan, Assistant Principal Keith Richard and senior Serguei Balanovich, addressed a volunteer board of educators and community members. The presentation began with a summary of the social aspect of the school given by the activities coordinator, Beth Kreick, and junior Genevieve Gosselin. Richard shared teacher and student perspectives, as well as an analysis of school data. During the comprehensive hourlong presentation, judges listened intently as the group inundated them with information about the school. After a brief question-and-answer session, we were headed back to North, hopeful that our school will be chosen in the coming weeks. After judges consider all applicants, two schools will be chosen as finalists. Members from the Excellence in Education program will then travel to the schools for a site visit. After final evaluation, the winner will be chosen and announced at the âEDâies award ceremony on June 12 at the Center of New Hampshire Radisson Hotel.

Dances enjoying growth in popularity at Campbell

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:03:17 EST

What do homecoming, the winter holidays and Valentineâs Day have in common? They all call for dances, of course! Or maybe not. The students at Campbell High School have been enjoying this yearâs surprising number of dances. Formerly known for their general lack of interest in festivities, the kids at Campbell are now looking for any new reason to dance. Although attendance and interest regarding dances are at an all-time high, will this new trend turn out to be a fad? âIt may just be my personality, but Iâm not really a fan of dances,â junior Katie Kierstead said. âI think the number of dances is a little excessive.â With a dance about every two months, there is little room for other school-sponsored activities, although this might not be a bad thing. The dances act as fundraisers for various organizations within the school, and dances bring in the money. âThere wouldnât be as much participation with another activity,â Kierstead said. Over the years, many Campbell events such as fundraisers and dances have been canceled because of a lack of interest. âPeople donât care enough about what the dances sponsor,â junior Amanda Doucette said.

BG girls hockey team fights for respect

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:00:56 EST

The sport of hockey, both in being played and being watched, is truly a pleasure to few regions of the United States â New England being one of them. However, even in a region where the sport is most popular, it often fails to reach a specific and rather large subset of people: girls. Many schools in the area, including Nashua High School North and South, do not have girls hockey teams, but Bishop Guertin High School is one of the few that does offer the sport to female students. And for members of this hockey team, playing such an aggressive sport can cause some controversy. Hockey being the rough sport it is â see HockeyFights.com if you donât believe it â female players do not face similar challenges as female athletes who are cheerleaders. Any cheerleader from Bishop Guertin could argue for hours that cheerleading is a sport and should be considered one. Girls who play hockey are respected as athletes, but require all of the same training, equipment and ice time as the boys team â a set of necessities for which the teams must compete. While both teams usually practice at Skate 3 in Tyngsborough, Mass., located a few minutes from Bishop Guertin, if the boys team is practicing there, the girls team must practice at Lawrence Academy, a private school with an ice rink 40 minutes from Bishop Guertin in Groton, Mass. âWe just donât get as much respect,â said one team member, junior Sarah Crespo. Beyond the struggles of finding a place to play hockey, the members of the girls team are highly aware of the stereotypes they receive from participating in the sport. Girls who play hockey are often considered tougher than most other girls. They can be characterized as short-tempered and ready to fight, when these girls are no different from their other female classmates. âPeople think just because we wear pads and cups weâre super-masculine,â sophomore team member Emma Lynch said, âbut that couldnât be farther from the truth.â While the girls hockey team can at times be disrespected or prioritized below the boys team, they certainly receive recognition from their peers for their hard work and ability.

Religious Events

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 08:00:59 EST

NASHUA ARLINGTON STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Sunday worship begins at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Bruce Bradshaw, and childrenâs Sunday School is from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Adult Bible study is 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays.

Thanks for your help with senior luncheon

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:25:00 EST

To the Editor: On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the town of Windham Recreation Department hosted the annual Senior Citizen Christmas Luncheon at Castleton. It was a wonderful event. Close to 400 guests enjoyed a turkey dinner, entertainment, door prizes, and a great deal of holiday fun.

CASA volunteers are valuable resources

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:10:00 EST

To the Editor: As January is âNational Thank You Month,â I would like to take this opportunity to give a special thank you to all of you involved with CASA of NH, especially the GALs who work with our stateâs most vulnerable citizens, our children in state custody. Also, I am enlisting your help in the search for additional CASA/GALS to serve in family courts throughout our state, being the voice of these children, who have been abused or neglected by their caregivers. I invite you to visit the CASA Web site at www.casanh.org and learn more about the program; then if you or someone you know think you are ready to meet this challenge, fill out the application to become a CASA volunteer; the challenge is great, the needs are many, but the rewards are immeasurable. Again, Thank You for all that you do. Denise Burton CASA/Guardian at Litem

Thank you for supporting our troops

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:10:00 EST

To the Editor: My son Kevin is currently deployed to Patika Province, Afghanistan, as part of the 172nd Infantry Brigade, 504th Military Intelligence Co. of the US Army. In September, I started placing holiday and thank you cards on the tables at The City Room so customers could express their holiday wishes and thanks to these unselfish soldiers. In October, Pamme Boutselis, correspondent for The Nashua Telegraph, wrote an outstanding article about our mission. I canât even explain how overwhelming the support was.

Thank you for supporting tournament

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:53 EST

To the Editor: The weather this past Oct. 8-10, was so warm, sunny and mild that you could have mistaken it for Memorial Day weekend but for the influx of thousands of players and their families attending Nashua World Cupâs 29th annual Columbus Day weekend soccer tournament. Nashua World Cup hosted nearly 300 teams to compete in this yearâs tournament. Boys and girls teams ages 8-14 traveled from all six states of New England, in addition to several teams from Canada.

Thank you to Barnes & Noble for community service

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:27 EST

To the Editor: The ALTRUSA Club of Merrimack Valley would like to thank Barnes & Noble of Nashua for its commitment to community service that made it possible for our club to participate in its Charity Gift Wrapping during this past holiday season. The cheerful cooperation and genuine assistance of Kathy Puglisi, community relations manager, and her staff, helped us to have a successful fundraising event. ALTRUSA is a nonprofit service organization that seeks to improve the lives of those less fortunate in the community by focusing its efforts toward literacy projects, local shelters, food pantries, scholarships, at-risk mothers, infants and children, and senior citizens. If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of others and to learn more about us, visit us at www.altrusa.org or e-mail altrusaclubmerrimackvalley@gmail.com or call 1-978- 649-9288. Katherine Richo Chair, Charity Gift Wrapping

Thank you to Nashua HS South for holiday concert

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:45 EST

To the Editor: I recently attended the Santa Fund Concert at Nashua High School South, as the guest of my daughter who is a teacher at the school. The concert was a beautiful event and was performed by many talented and dedicated students who gave this community a very special holiday gift with their outstanding performance, as well as raising money for a wonderful cause.

Wilton-Lyndeborough Cooperative Middle School and High School honor rolls

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:55:00 EST

Wilton-Lyndeborough Cooperative Middle School has announced its honor roll for the first quarter of the 2011-12 school year. HIGH HONORS GRADE 7: Bethany Anne AuCoin, Johnathan Christopher Knowles, Katya Erdmann Lutz, Teren Danielle MacDonald, Autumn Sky Tucker Roberts, Grace Anne Wight. GRADE 8: Sarah Simone Brett, Kassandra Marie Cavarretta, Katherine Brenna MacDonald, Gianna Marie Mercier, Duncan Louis Rae, Allyson Ilona Schwab, Margaret Ann Tremblay. HONORS GRADE 7: Emma Kay Brown, Julianne Tomasina Care, Kyle Michael Gilmore, Amber Lee Goodwin, Katherine Rennie Hanisch, Raymond Joseph Humphreys, Emma Leigh Kross, Jordan Michelle Kross, Erin Nicole Lavelle, Ian Robert Losee, Tatum Marie Vander-Heyden, Naomi Zariza Wight. GRADE 8: Madison Taylor Bacon, Cori Joan Balam, Joshua Harry Bartsch, Jared Connor Bean, Mya Paige Brown, Morgan Jared Bruneau, Thomas James Crowley, Matthew Joseph Ducharme, Chandler Joseph Fraser, Zoey Elizabeth Gaudette, Sara Christine Holka, Samantha Leigh Hooper, Julissa Joyal, Suzanne Lemire, Olivia Elizabeth McGettigan, Zandra Marie Morris, Shane Michael Moynihan, Aimee L.Riendeau, Matthew David Shinn, Tesa Elizabeth Simpson, Naomi Renee Vander Heyden, Hannah Elizabeth Welch. Wilton-Lyndeborough Cooperative High School has announced its honor roll for the first quarter of the 2011-12 school year. HIGH HONORS GRADE 9: Christino, Ryan Garrett. GRADE 10: Hannah Bailey, Victoria Lorvig, Meghan McClure. GRADE 11: none. GRADE 12: Emily Jean Brett, Emily Foxcroft Morse. HONORS GRADE 9: Lorrie Blais, Parker Coleman, Remington Court, Kassie Lee Dumont, Hannah Danielle Earle, Rebekah Floyd, Rachel Marie Graves, Andrew Joseph Luongo, Connor Melrose, Alyssa Belle Minott, Etta Martina Popek, Kelsey Joanne Randlett, Jessica Dorothy Schultz, David Mark Sousa, Skye Williams, Emily Elizabeth Yurcak. GRADE 10: Kayla Elizabeth Barnes, Jessica Rae Bean, Samantha Lynne Bosquet, Wade Ryan Cutler, Kayla Nicole Demanche, James Michael Edmunds, Kimberly Marie Edmunds, Nina Hedberg, John Lemire, Patrick Chaisson Martin, Miguel Moya, Jr.,Emily Rose Rocca, Colton Peter Salisbury, Brianna Leigh Sousa. GRADE 11: Riley Court, Marissa Shirley Courtemarche, Marissa Deanna Goddard, Vanessa Lynn Goodine, Robert Adam Hayden, Andrea Barbara Heck, Kyle Aaron Magoon, Casey Annette Montefusco, Heidi Anne Stearns, Kathryn Elizabeth Stickney, Miskinawi Tania-Ysidora Villalobos. GRADE 12: Carly Keryn Ayres, Sierra Joy Bragdon, Adam Daniel Edmunds, Eric A Garon, Dagny E.Hedberg, William Howard Henry, Shaunna Sage Ricci, William Davis Shinn.

Two-part Black History Month celebration starts Sunday at Hunt Memorial Building in Nashua

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:26 EST

NASHUA â The Trustees and Friends of the Hunt Memorial Building are presenting âWe Are the Dream,â a two-day celebration of Black History Month, as part of its new Ethnic Heritage Series. The first program, organized by Stephanie Allen, chairwoman of the French Hill Revitalization Committee of Greater Nashua Habitat for Humanity, will be 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5. âSince this program comes right after Martin Luther King Day, we decided to focus on what his landmark speech means to us in the here and now,â Allen said. âThe echoes of Dr.

Fundraising event Saturday honors memory of Hudson woman devoted to kids

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:33 EST

HUDSON â On Dec. 22, 2007, a loving family and supportive community mourned the loss of Jeanie Barkley, a devoted wife and mother, caring friend and untiring volunteer for kids everywhere. After fighting a long, courageous battle against aplastic anemia, Barkley, a vibrant and positive person, and a vivacious lover of life, lost her fight. Barkley lived for kids â her children and all the children she touched every year in the Hudson community. Because she lived to give, the Jeanie Barkley Memorial Fund Committee was formed to continue her legacy of service to the community. The permanent fund provides scholarship opportunities annually to deserving students at Alvirne High School, and when the fund grows to sufficient size, it can support other charitable interests that Barkley favored. Scholarship recipients will possess the potential to make the same kind of positive impact on their community that Barkley did. The money awarded is used by the winner to offset the cost of postsecondary education, tuition, fees, books, room and board. The fund has awarded four scholarships, but needs help to continue Barkleyâs legacy.