Londonderry Fire Department Offers Fire Prevention Tips for a Safe and Festive Holiday Season

For most of us, the holiday season represents a time for family festivities and good cheer. What few of us consider is that the holiday season is a time when there is an increased risk of home fires. According to The Londonderry Fire Department, many households engage in holiday activities that serve as some of the leading causes of US home fires, including cooking. Christmas trees, candle usage and holiday decorations also significantly contribute to the seasonal causes of home fires. Add to that the hectic nature of the holidays, when people are trying to accomplish multiple tasks at one time, and the chance for home fires grows even further.

“As everyone gets busier during the holidays, we often become rushed, distracted or tired,” says Brian Johnson of the Londonderry Fire Department. “That’s when home fires are more likely to occur.”

Fortunately, with a little added awareness and some minor adjustments to holiday cooking and decorating, the season can remain festive and safe for everybody. “By taking some preventative steps and following simple rules of thumb, most home fires can be prevented,” says Fire Marshal Johnson.

With unattended cooking as the leading cause of U.S. home fires and home fire injuries, Johnson says to stay in the kitchen while you’re frying, grilling or broiling food. Most cooking fires involve the stovetop, so keep anything that can catch fire away from it, and turn off the stove when you leave the kitchen, even if it’s for a short period of time. If you’re simmering, boiling, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking. The Londonderry Fire Department also suggests creating a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are prepared or carried.

Candles are widely used in homes throughout the holidays, and December is the peak month for home candle fires. The nonprofit National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) statistics show that more than half of all candle fires start because the candles had been too close to things that could catch fire. The Londonderry Fire Department encourages Londonderry residents to consider using flameless candles, which look and smell like real candles. However, if you do use traditional candles, keep them at least 12” away from anything that can burn, and remember to blow them out when you leave the room or go to bed. Use candle holders that are sturdy, won’t tip over and are placed on uncluttered surfaces. Avoid using candles in the bedroom where two of five U.S. candle fires begin or other areas where people may fall asleep. Lastly, never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle.

According to NFPA, U.S. fire departments annually respond to an average of 250 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Nearly half of them are caused by electrical problems, and one in four resulted from a heat source that’s too close to the tree. The Londonderry Fire Department offers the following advice for picking, placing and lighting the tree:

• If you have an artificial tree, be sure it’s labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire-retardant.
• If you choose a fresh tree, make sure the green needles don’t fall off when touched; before placing it in the stand, cut 1-2” from the base of the trunk. Add water to the tree stand, and be sure to water it daily.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit, and is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, candles and heat vents or lights.
• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory, and make sure you know whether they are designed for indoor or outdoor use.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini-string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.
• After Christmas, get rid of the tree. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside the home.
• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

By following these fire prevention tips and measure, the Londonderry Fire Department says you can greatly reduce the risk of fire in your home, and enjoy a safe holiday season. “The holidays can quickly turn from joyful to tragic when a fire occurs,” says Johnson. “By taking simple precautions, people can avoid potential fire hazards, and make this time of year a healthy and happy one.”

Visit www.nfpa.org for more information and safety tips. For more information, contact: Fire Marshal Brian Johnson 603-432-1124 bjohnson(at)londonderrynh.org

The Santa Claus Shuffle Will Be an Incredible Sight to See as a Record Numbers of Santas Make Their Way Through Downtown Manchester.

The first running of the Santa Claus Shuffle was a smashing success, with over 1300 participants crossing the finish line adjacent to Manchester’s Veteran’s Memorial Park. It topped the Millennium Running Fisher Cats’ Thanksgiving 5K presented by MVP Health Care as the biggest first-year road race ever in the State of New Hampshire. The combination of 1,000 Santa suits purchased for participants and the Manchester Christmas Parade immediately following the Shuffle, created a never before seen holiday spectacle and became an immediate tradition. This year Millennium Running has upped it to 4000 Santa Suits and expects to see more than 3000 participants cross the finish line.

Online registration is available on the Millennium Running website, www.MillenniumRunning.com until noon on Thursday December 5, 2013. In-person registration is also available Friday, December 6 (5pm – 7pm) at the Toy’s R Us in Manchester, NH and race day headquarters on Saturday at the Radisson Hotel Ballroom in Manchester beginning at 1pm.

“When you look down Elm St. and it’s a sea of red Santa suits the sight is just incredible! Of all the events we put on this one, to me, is probably the most special,” said John Mortimer of Millennium Running.“ When word catches on about running, health and wellness, and then you add the Santa Suits, the growth from year one to year two is amazing!”

The Santa Claus Shuffle will start promptly at 3:15pm Saturday December 7th and head North on Elm St. from Veteran’s Memorial Park. The pack of runners will turn left on W. Clark St. then loop back around to Elm St. and head back down the parade route completing the three mile course.

‘This event is a great way to celebrate the spirit of running and the spirit of Christmas with family and friends” Said Nick Vailas of BASC. “We are very proud to be a part of it.”

The official charitable beneficiary for the Santa Claus Shuffle is Safe Sports Network. The Safe Sports Network offers free evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of athletic injuries for student athletes of Greater Manchester, Salem, and Nashua, NH.

“Half of NH high schools have no one to care for sports injuries, but 4000 athletes at 9 schools currently receive sports medicine care from Safe Sports professionals. Those kids have that care because of gifts from donors who understand the importance of ensuring safety in the athletic arena and have supported this essential program for over 20 years.” Said Laura Decoster of Safe Sports Network “Millennium Running is one of those donors and we’re thrilled to be the charitable beneficiary of the Santa Claus Shuffle. On behalf of all the kids we care for, thanks to Millennium and all the runners.”

Millennium Running worked with together with In Town Manchester to make the Santa Clause Shuffle a tremendous success again this year.

About Millennium Running:
Founded in September 2010 by John Mortimer, Millennium Running is New Hampshire’s fastest growing road race management company. Fueled by a passion for promoting healthy, active lifestyles, Millennium Running’s mission is to provide unique, first class events. With more than $200,000 in funds raised for local organizations and non-profits since its inception, Millennium Running strives to strengthen the community with its charitable efforts. Event management, race timing, and online event registration comprise Millennium Running’s core services.

Original story and images by Keith Tharp.

The members of the New Hampshire Blue Star Mothers will again host a wreath laying ceremony on the Town Common this weekend. The ceremony will be held in memory of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom, in honor of those presently servicing in the military and in tribute to U.S. military personnel whose last known status was either Prisoner of War of Missing in Action.

Saturday, December 7, 2013 at 9 AM

This marks the fifth year the Blue Star Mothers have come together for a wreath laying. Past ceremonies have opened with a moment of silence to remember the fallen, a speech on behalf of the mothers, and the laying of the wreath.

History of the Blue Star Mothers

On January 22, 1942 the Flint News Advertiser printed a coupon asking Mothers of serviceman to return the coupon after filling it out. The following February 1st 300 mothers met in the Durant Hotel, in Flint Blue Star Mothers Michigan. Captain George H. Maines, who had conceived the idea for this group, acted as the chair of this first meeting. It was decided that after receiving 1000 responses from the ad to form a permanent organization.

On February 6th the organization was reported on Congressional record. Chapters then formed in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, Iowa and Washington. In June of 1960 the organization was chartered by congress.

Mothers volunteered throughout the tough times of World War II. They worked in hospitals, train stations, packed care packages for soldiers and were an working part of homeland security during times our time of war. The organization waned in size over the years but has held together by mothers showing pride in both their children and country. In recent times they have began to grow in strength. Being attacked on our own soil has once again started mothers hanging flags in their windows at home proclaiming pride in the fact that we have children protecting our freedom during at time of war.

The organization not only provides support for active duty service personnel, promotes patriotism, assists Veterans organizations, and are available to assist in homeland volunteer efforts to help our country remain strong.

The traditional Christmas Tree Lighting on the Londonderry Town Common will take place this Sunday, December 8, 2013. Festivities start at 2:30 PM, with entertainment and refreshments.  Then as it starts to get dark, at approximately 4 PM, a fire truck will bring Santa and Mrs. Claus to oversee the illumination of  decorated trees.

The Londonderry Rotary Club works annually with many youth groups, local non-profit organizations and area businesses to put on this event.  24 trees will be available for decoration by enthusiastic Girl Scout troops, Daycare classes, Cub Scouts, church groups and more.  Trees will be available for decoration on December 1 and groups often get creative with natural and edible materials to be wildlife-friendly.

The Specialized Theater Enrichment Program (STEP) performers from Londonderry and members of the Londonderry Christian Church choir will entertain. “The STEPs students are incredibly excited to be involved in such a wonderful Londonderry tradition. They love performing and reaching out to the community and are especially excited to get all bundled up to help families get into the holiday spirit,” said Musical Director Yvonne Sarafinis. “Their performance will include solo and group numbers featuring holiday favorites such as Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and The Christmas Song as well as some new holiday pop tunes.”

Hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies will be served as the community gathers to enjoy the magical glow of lights on the Common. Keep a camera ready because after the trees are lit, good little girls and boys are invited to bring their wish list and sit on Santa’s lap.

Jen Rankin, Girl Scout leader shares, “The girls love to make edible ornaments for their Christmas trees.  It is one messy meeting, but a favorite one.”  John Timmeny, president of the Londonderry Rotary Club said, “For over 20 years our members have been proud to organize this event.  We donate and set up the trees and lights because we love to see how it generates big smiles and fosters happy memories. Thanks also to Demers Garden Center, Macks Apples and Castle Caterers for donations and discounts.” Be sure to dress warm and celebrate the start of the Holiday Season at this fun event!

Remi O. Fortin, 87, of Londonderry, passed away on December 4, 2013 at the Elliot Hospital as a result of a tragic accident, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Bedford, the son of Amedee and Delia (Trembley) Fortin. He was a graduate of West High School followed by a year of study in Boston. He was a World War II Navy Veteran, serving aboard the USS Lacerta. Upon returning from the war, he met and married Cecile Marcotte and recently cerebrated their 66th wedding anniversary. They built a life together, raising their family and starting Remi Fortin Construction Co., and Remi Fortin Realty Company. Remi was a true contractor, carrying licenses in electric, plumbing, blasting and septic design. He was also a licensed real estate agent. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council #6949 of St. Jude Parish in Londonderry. He and his wife traveled extensively in their motor home with their lifelong friends, Dot and Bill Hebert and also traveled abroad. The Fortin and Hebert families spent many years repairing and camping at the two NH Diocesan camps, Fatima and Bernadette. Remi’s interests remained in his companies he built until he passed away. In his retirement, he took great pleasure in woodworking. Remi was always willing to help those in need and those who were unable to help themselves.

In addition to his wife, family members include eight children, Remi W. (Bill) Fortin and his wife Pauline of Londonderry, Anna Davis and her husband John of Auburn, Jacqueline Malandrino and her husband Ken of New Boston, Michelle Jacob and her husband Rick of Auburn, Larry Fortin and his wife Betty of Londonderry, Colette Worsman and her husband Glen of Meredith, Jane Keefe and her husband Kevin of Auburn, and Marc Fortin and his wife Cindy of Bedford; 14 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren; one aunt, Lucy Corriveau; and several nephews, nieces and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Fernand Fortin.

Calling hours will be at Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 243 Hanover St., Manchester on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday morning at 10:00 AM in St. Jude Catholic Church, Londonderry. Committal services with military honors will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Donations may be made in his memory to St. Jude Church, Pro Life Fund, 435 Mammoth Rd., Manchester, NH 03053.

For more information, leave a note of condolence or read others visit the Phaneuf Funeral Home Website.

Originally published: December 7, 2008

I have been taken creative writing classes that the senior Center on Mammoth road. It was offered for a price that I can afford on a fixed income. How I look forward to Friday afternoons to meet with new friends and to share the lessons we have learned.

Exercises in writing about setting a scene, creating conflicts and making our characters real are but a few things that the elder students are learning. We enjoy the challenges and have come to know each other on a more personal basis. We have become close friends and that was not a lesson; it was because of the classes that we came to know each other. For that reason alone I hope that more seniors will join the Mayflower Grange Senior Center. They have so much more to offer.

Our teacher is a young mother with all the patience one needs to teach all age groups. Considering her age, she is almost as wise as her senior students.

If Anne is reading this, I smiled as I was writing this and wonder at her reaction. Hopefully I have written well enough to show her that I have been paying attention in class. Fiction writing is totally different from writing about one’s memories. It is a craft that comes out of your brain and not from a reservoir of remembrances’.

Imagine the feeling of writing a good story that has been created from imagination, your imaginations coming to life in print form. The ideas and words belong to only you. Sharing the workings of your brain with the public is a brave endeavor.

The senior center is a fun place to be. The older citizen’s of Londonderry have a choice of playing board games, of sharing their talents, staying well and just simply chatting with others.

Until the spring season arrives, the writing lesson have been put on hold me and my class will be continuing to meet for we are friends of a feather. The feather being the writing implement of the past; a feathered pen dipped into an ink well.

The Girl Scouts of America have a song that states; make new friends but save the old for one is silver and the other gold. I encourage all of our senior citizens to join a senior center. They will find that their lives will be lined with silver and will add to the glitter of the gold.

Lorraine

Learn more about Anne Kelsey, her innovative, instructional and fun classes at the “Dare To Write” website.

Editors Note: Lorraine Cookson passed away on October 27, 2013 after a brief illness. As one of our first columnists, she was very active with the Senior Center and attended nearly all the events in Town. In memory of Lorraine, we will reprint each one of her columns on Sunday mornings.

Interested in keeping your archery skills in tune once archery season comes to an end? This winter, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department will once again offer free archery leagues for both beginners and experienced archers who want to learn new skills or improve their current skills. Both leagues will be held at Fish and Game’s Owl Brook Hunter Education Center, located at 387 Perch Pond Road in Holderness, NH. Registration is now open.

Each archery league will meet one night a week, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, for four consecutive weeks:

January leagues:

• Advanced league – every Tuesday beginning January 7, 2014.
• Beginner/Instructional league – every Thursday beginning January 9, 2014.

February leagues:

• Advanced league – every Wednesday beginning February 5, 2014.
• Beginner/Instructional league – every Thursday beginning February 6, 2014.

Participants in the adult league must bring their own equipment in good working condition. Only field tips or target points will be permitted; NO BROADHEADS. All equipment will be provided for the participants in the beginner league.

“This is a great opportunity to get out of the house to participate in an activity that normally takes place in the summer and fall, as well as meet new friends,” said Tom Flynn, Facility Manager at Owl Brook Hunter Education Center. “So, whether you are an experienced archer looking to keep your skills sharp over the winter, or someone who just wants to give archery a try, come join the fun!”

To register, call Tom Flynn or Eric Geib at the Owl Brook Hunter Education Center at 603-536-3954. Registration is first-come, first-served, so if you are interested, call soon. Participation will be limited to 10 people in each league. You must be able to commit to attending all four weeks in order to register.

For directions to Fish and Game’s Owl Brook Hunter Education Center, to volunteer at the center, or to learn more about other course offerings at Owl Brook, click here.

Activities at the Owl Brook Hunter Education Center are funded by federal Wildlife Restoration Funds, supported by your purchase of firearms, ammunition and archery equipment. Learn more about this user-pay, user-benefit program here.

Each year we drive around town to look at the lights here in Londonderry. This year readers have asked the same question: “Where are the best lights in Londonderry?” Londonderry has its’ famous spots which are classic locations on Hall Road, and High Range Road. You can still see a very colorful display on Peabody Row. We have seen houses with plenty of those blow-up decorations, the white light up reindeers, and just a beautiful wreath lit by a spotlight.

This is where we are calling upon the readers of Londonderry News. Do you have a favorite house or neighborhood that, every year, seems to get better and better? Is there one place, one town, that seems to take the cake for Christmas lights?

If you have a favorite place, we would like to know! Leave a comment on this story letting us and our readers know where the neighborhood or house can be found. It doesn’t have to be in Londonderry, but we would like to keep it within a one hour radius, driving-time. Be sure to tell why you love the location so much!

Some past comments from readers:
Heather Rojo
“The house on the Windham line on the corner of Anderson and Mammoth Road. It might be just over into Windham, but it’s very pretty. So is the Coach Stop restaurant! Drive up to the little parking area next to the pet cemetery and look at the airport all lit up at night, too (the little road that says “No parking” but everyone parks there), and imagine you’re going someplace exotic for the holidays.”

Chris Melcher
““12 Bancroft Road used to have enough lights up to land a plane, without exaggeration…they made it on WMUR at least once. They have toned it down the last couple years, but there is still quite a bit up and they don’t generally mind people driving down to see the display.”

Katherine
“Alexander Road has a good display!!”

The Londonderry High School Drama Club is sponsoring the annual Gingerbread Night December 12, 2013 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Admission gets you all the fixings to create a gingerbread house covered in icing, candy, and more!

There will be light refreshments and holiday music.

Sumner M. Holmes, 95, died December 9, 2013 at Hillsborough County Nursing Home following a brief illness. He was born in Salem, MA. on April 22, 1918 the son of Edwin and Emma (Merchant) Holmes. He had lived in Tuftonboro and Rowley prior to residing in Londonderry.

He had been employed as a machinist for Scott & Williams as well as Western Electric.

He was predeceased by his wife, Jeanne (Parker) Holmes on October 18, 2002.

Family members include two sons, Edwin S. “Ned” Holmes, and his wife Diane of Londonderry, Bruce Holmes of Alton, six grandchildren, Adam, Robert, Lisa, Deborah, Christine, Patricia, and his cat Mooney.

There are no calling hours or services.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Sumner’s name to the Lakes Region Humane Society, 11 Old Route 28, Ossipee, NH 03864.

For more information and on line guestbook please visit www.bouffordfuneralhome.com.

For a fourteenth straight year, Simon Youth Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides educational opportunities for at-risk high school students, will award a college scholarship to one student from every community that is home to a Simon property. Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarships are awarded through the Simon Youth Scholarships program and in partnership with local Simon properties. The application period is open from now to Saturday, January 11, 2014.

Any student who will be graduating in the class of 2014 and lives within 50 miles of a Simon property is eligible. The program will award a one-time scholarship of up to $1,500 to students who plan to enroll in an accredited college, university, vocational or technical school.

In 2013, the Simon Youth Scholarships program awarded $1.1 million to 389 students nationwide.

“Our mission is to ignite hope for a brighter future in students, and our Foundation is proud to partner with the Mall of New Hampshire to award scholarships that will remove some of the financial obstacles that would otherwise prevent a student from achieving the dream of a college education,” says J. Michael Durnil, Ph.D., the President and CEO of SYF.

The 2014 SYF Community Scholarship recipients will be selected by Scholarship Management Services, a third-party administrator. Students are selected based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, academic performance, leadership skills and participation in school and community activities. Those students who are the first in their family to pursue a post secondary education will also be given close consideration.

Locally, students can pick up a copy of a scholarship application at the Simon Guest Services Center at the Mall of New Hampshire. Applications also can be downloaded at the SYF website.

The completed application, along with official school transcripts and parents’ most recently filed tax form, must be sent to Scholarship Management Services by January 11, 2014.

About SYF

Simon Youth Foundation, established in 1998, supports 23 Simon Youth Academies in 13 U.S. states that give at-risk students the same education they would receive in a traditional classroom while offering the flexibility that their individual circumstances require. Recipient of the Crystal Star Award of Excellence in Dropout Prevention from the National Dropout Prevention Center, the foundation has helped more than 10,000 students earn their high school diploma and provided more than $10 million in college scholarships to 3,900 students in 42 states. The Education Commission of the United States has recognized the foundation with its Corporate Award for sustained and substantial investment in improving public education.

About The Mall of New Hampshire

The Mall of New Hampshire is a regional shopping center located in Manchester, New Hampshire and is managed by Simon Property Group, Inc., headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana.  The Mall of New Hampshire is anchored by department store favorites Macy’s, jcpenney, Best Buy and Sears and has over 125 retailers, 4 full-service restaurants and a 550 seat food court.

Ready for some winter fun? Registration opens January 6 for the 2014 Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Winter Workshop, a one-day program where women can learn outdoor skills for the winter months.

Winter BOW participants choose a single activity to explore during the daylong workshop. Learn how to ice-fish, explore winter outdoor survival skills, track wildlife on snowshoes, try snowmobiling (beginners only) or experience the popular ‘Shoe and Shoot class (woodland target shooting on snowshoes).

The workshop will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2014 (snow date Sunday, February 16), at the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s Owl Brook Hunter Education Center in Holderness, N.H. A fee of $55 covers the workshop, lunch and most equipment use. Participants must be at least 18 years old. A brochure describing the workshop is currently available here.

If you are interested in attending Winter BOW, check the website a few days before registration opens on January 6, 2014, and print out the registration form and mail it in right away. As you probably know, this program fills up quickly.

The New Hampshire Wildlife Federation, an event co-sponsor, is a nonprofit group that advocates for the promotion and protection of hunting, fishing and trapping, as well as the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat. Click here.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state’s fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit their website.

For planning purposes, Moose Hill Kindergarten staff are asking that parents notify the school by December 30, 2013, if their children will be attending the upcoming school year. The school needs to determine how many students will be attending the 2014 school year kindergarten program.

Any child entering kindergarten in Londonderry next year must be five years old prior to September 30, 2014.

If you have a child eligible to attend kindergarten in Londonderry next year, please fill out and send a preregistration form, found here, or send your child’s, gender, date of birth, parents’ or guardians’ names, address, home telephone number, and email address to the school by December 30, 2013.

Forms or information can be submitted a number of ways:

Mail:
Moose Hill School
150 Pillsbury Road
Londonderry, NH 03053

Fax:
603-437-3709

Email:
bbreithaupt(at)londonderry.org

Telephone:
603-437-5855 between 8 AM and 4 PM on any school day

In Person:
At Moose Hill School between 8 AM and 4 PM on any school day

The Isles of Shoals is home to the largest colony of breeding terns in the Gulf of Maine. Common terns (state threatened), roseate terns (state and federally endangered) and Arctic terns all migrate to the Isles of Shoals off the New Hampshire coast to nest and raise their young each year. A special fundraising effort is now underway through the NH Fish and Game Department’s Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program to embark on new research using nanotag telemetry to learn about the foraging behavior of terns and how it affects their ability to nest and raise young.

About the Terns

The tern colony on Seavey Island at the Isles of Shoals consists of common terns, roseate terns and Arctic terns. Terns arrive in New Hampshire during April and May each year to breed. Each nesting pair lays 2-4 eggs during late May through July and both the male and female take turns incubating the eggs for approximately 21-27 days. Chicks are born with downy feathers, but are dependent on adults for protection and food. They cannot fly for approximately the first 28 days of life, therefore are very susceptible to predation. All terns leave New Hampshire in August to migrate south to their wintering grounds.

About the Project

The goals of the Tern Restoration Project are to protect, manage and enhance the breeding populations of the terns nesting at the Isles of Shoals. Since restoration efforts began in 1997, the number of common terns nesting on the islands has increased from six pairs to over 2,600 in 2013. In addition, since the first pair of roseate terns nested in 2001, their numbers have grown to 59 pairs last year.

Information transmitted by the nano tags will be collected through the Northeast Regional Migration Monitoring Network and will allow biologists to analyze foraging behavior by adult terns including where and how far they go to find food, and how long they forage; important factors that can influence the survival of chicks and overall productivity of the breeding populations.

This research will help biologists better understand how seeking food influences tern reproduction, and will inform future management decisions in an effort to sustain the New Hampshire tern colonies.

This work is also part of an emerging network of tern research efforts throughout the Northeast, including researchers from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, University of New Hampshire, University of Massachusetts, and Bird Studies Canada, who are all working together to track and monitor the movement of terns on the Isles of Shoals after the breeding season.

The Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program is seeking public support for this exciting research effort. Tax-deductible contributions may be sent to the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program, New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Make checks payable to NH Fish and Game/Nongame Program. For a print-and-mail contribution form, click here.

For more information about terns in New Hampshire, visit this website.

The N.H. Fish and Game Department’s Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program is the steward for species not hunted, fished or trapped. Through wildlife monitoring and management, plus outreach and education, the Nongame Program works to protect over 400 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as thousands of insects and other invertebrates. Learn more here.

Originally published: December 28, 2008

There it sat on the sofa in the living room; a beat-up, old box filled with precious memories. With the care I would give a newborn, I lifted the lid and set it aside. Mounds of white tissue paper popped upwards like a cloud made of marshmallows. Nestled below the clouds were the ornaments that would enhance the beauty of a small pine tree.

I unwound a wad of tissue paper and glance at the miniature snowman holding a baseball glove in its hand. As I unwrapped one ornament after other memories flooded my mind.

Faded pictures of a young boy playing at his first baseball game in a sparkling clean uniform. On his left hand he holds a leather glove that he keeps pounding with the fist of his right hand throughout the fist inning, the second and the third. With a smile on his face the size of a crescent moon.

The tiny china tea pot I had packed so carefully was gleaming as bright as the memory hanging from my heart strings. How often I think of the time when my granddaughters told me I was the best gammy in the whole wide world. All because I had let them have their tea parties with real tea, real sugar and real milk. A measured cup of weakly brewed tea would take the girls through an entire morning of entertainment. The memory of those precious years will be with me for a lifetime.

Inside the box are many such items; pines cones dressed by tiny hands with a bit of sparkling glue that give them a festive look and a tinge of shine. They glow more brightly every year as the reminiscences age. One of the most endearing of my mementos is white enveloped bedecked with hand drawn, colorful pictures. Where a stamp would be placed sets a tiny red bow with a long stream of packaging rope. If you were to peek inside of the envelope, you would find that it is empty just as I thought on that Christmas morning it was given to me by another granddaughter of three years.

“You think it’s empty, don’t you Gammy?” She had asked with the insight of a Wiseman.

What was a Grammy to say? To my eyes the envelope was empty, but then again I knew that she had made it with care. I told her how special it would always be to me and she smiled as she slid from a chair into my waiting arms.

Her voice was angel sweet when she enlightened, everyone in the room, “It’s filled with love.”

What better gift is there to give a family member or a friend than a remembrance that is special to the both of you? None better. I have no need to worry on how I will decorate the small pine that will glow with Christmas splendor. I only need to open a box filled priceless and precious mementos wrapped in a cloud of tissue paper.

This short story is by one of our Featured Columnists Lorraine Cookson, who lived in Londonderry for four years. She looks to everyday experiences and memories from her childhood to channel her creativity. Although writing is her first love, she also enjoys fishing, camping, gardening as well as building miniature bird and doll houses. Camping and Fishing experiences seem to worm their way into many of her stories.

Like to share your gift with Londonderry? Use our Contact Page to get started!

Editors Note: Lorraine Cookson passed away on October 27, 2013 after a brief illness. As one of our first columnists, she was very active with the Senior Center and attended nearly all the events in Town. In memory of Lorraine, we will reprint each one of her columns on Sunday mornings.

William O. Merrill, 86, of Londonderry, NH died Friday, December 13, 2013 at the Villa Crest Nursing Home, Manchester. He was born on January 31, 1927 in Manchester, NH, a son of the late Clinton E. and Ethel (Platt) Merrill. Mr. Merrill was a graduate of Pinkerton Academy, Derry, Class of 1944. He later received his BA from UNH in 1951 and his Master’s Degree in 1955. He proudly served his country with the US Air Force, serving during the Korean Conflict and had served from 1951 -1979 retiring as a Lt. Colonel.

Mr. Merrill has been the owner of Oliver Merrill and Sons Farm in Londonderry from 1982 until present but had spent his entire life living and working on the farm which primarily produced apples and eggs. He was a member of the NH Poultry Growers where he was a past president and a member of the NH Fruit Growers Association. He was also a member of the Farm Bureau, serving on the Poultry Committee.

Mr. Merrill was a long-time Manchester Farmer’s Market vendor from the 1970’s until 1999, where he was affectionately known as “The Egg Man.” He was on the Governor’s Commission for Vocational Education from 1980 to 1990. Mr. Merrill was a founder of the Londonderry Bank and Trust where he was at one time a Bank Director. He was also affiliated with Bedford Bank and First NH Bank. He was also a Past President and Executive Director of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Merrill was on the Londonderry Water Commission and the Sewer Commission. He was very active with Conservation and Land Preservation efforts in Londonderry. He enjoyed travelling with the Farm Bureau and the Vocational Education.

He is survived by his three sons, Charles Merrill and his partner Sandra Spanier, Kenneth Merrill and his wife Caroline, and Robert Merrill, two step grandsons, Morgan and Evan Gaythorp, and one sister Charlotte Merrill. He was predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Louise (French) Merrill and his brother Everett Merrill.

Following cremation, a memorial calling hour will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2013 from 2 – 3pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Road, Londonderry. A memorial service will follow at 3:00pm in the funeral home. Burial will be in the spring at Pleasant View Cemetery, Londonderry. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sonshine Soup Kitchen, 4 Crystal Avenue, Derry, NH 03038.

For a great little story about Mr. Merrill and his farm, click here.

Londonderry Police arrested several individuals over the course of the last week for varying offenses. Two of these arrests involved individuals with past arrests, while a third was for a DUI.

On December 11, 2013, Londonderry Police arrested Joshua Flood, 19, of Valley Street in Manchester. According to the police log, the arrest occurred at the Manchester Police Department, where Londonderry Police served a warrant to Flood at 5:19 PM.

Flood was charged with three counts of Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Images. His bail was set at $20,000 cash and he was arraigned the following day.

In February of 2012, Flood was arrested in Londonderry for Sale of Controlled or Narcotic Drugs and Penalties related to Possession of Controlled or Narcotic Drugs.

On December 14, 2013, Vincent Barber, 22, of Mohawk Drive in Londonderry, was arrested after a motor vehicle stop at 9:24 PM. He was charged with Suspended Registration, Driving after Revocation or Suspension, Drivers License Prohibitions, and Equipment Violations.

Barber was held on $1,500 personal recognizance bail and will appear in Derry District Court on January 6, 2014.

In January of 2012, Barber was arrested in Londonderry for Possession of Drugs in a Motor Vehicle, Traffic Light, and Child Restraints Required.

Finally, on December 15, 2013 at 2:01 AM, Londonderry Police arrested Matthew Neff, 25, of Oak Ridge Circle in Wilmington, Massachusetts. He was arrested after police stopped to assist a disable vehicle in the area of the Triangle Mobil.

Neff was charged with Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Liquor. His bail was set at $1,000 personal recognizance and he will appear in Derry District Court on January 6, 2014.

The Londonderry Lions Club annual Christmas Tree sale has already begun. The trees are in. Bring the family and pick out that “perfect tree” for your home. They have all sizes, including some tall trees. Come see us at the Lions Hall at 256 Mammoth Rd. Some delivery is available.

Every dollar of proceeds from our Christmas Tree sale goes to Lions Club charities, most of which is used right here in Londonderry. We thank you for your support in the past and ask you to support us this year, helping us help others.

The Knights, assisted by several Confirmation students, will be selling trees on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM and on Mondays through Fridays from 6:00 until 8:00 PM until they are gone.

As in the past, all proceeds will go directly to several charities and organizations supported by the Knights of Columbus and St. Mark’s Parish which serves parts of Londonderry, Windham, and Hudson.

The Londonderry Middle School Student Council will be collecting Toys for Tots through Friday December 20, 2013.

New, unwrapped toys are being collected, with a focus on items for older children and teens.

This is the 5th annual drive for students and community members to help stock the shelves of the Southern New Hampshire facility. Boxes are located by each of the main offices.

More community events and announcements like this can be found at LondonderryList.com.

Arthur D. “Chief” Findlay, Jr., 91, of Londonderry, NH, died Thursday December 12, 2013 in Pleasant Valley Nursing Center in Derry, NH. He was born in Cambridge, MA on May 13, 1922, a son of the late Arthur D. and Alice (Potter) Findlay, Sr. He had been a longtime resident of Londonderry. Mr. Findlay was a proud US Army veteran serving during WWII.

He is survived by two sons, Arthur D. Findlay, III and his wife Sharyn of Windham, NH, and Henry Findlay of Virginia; his daughter, Mildred Boissonneault and her husband Paul of Derry; ten grandchildren, Hope, Erin, Meg, Tina, Nan, Henry, Richard, Paul, Thomas, and Kim; several great grandchildren; and several great great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 65 years Marjorie (Garland) Findlay in July 2013.

There are no calling hours. Following cremation, a spring burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery in E. Derry with military honors. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry is assisting the family with arrangements.