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Pittsfield NH News

December 22, 2010

The Suncook Valley Sun News Archive is Maintained by Modern Concepts. We are NOT affliated in any way with the Suncook Valley Sun Newspaper.



 

Celebrating Birthdays are:  December 22, Al MacLellan; December 24, Jocob Robbins; December 25, Jeff Riel, Brittany Reed; December 26, Brigette Tibbetts, Christopher Ward; December 28, Hannah Marston, Karmen Bean, Sonya Butterworth.
A Very Happy Birthday To One and All!




Celebrating Anniversaries are: December 25, Jim & Martha Bryant.

Congratulations!


Candlelight Christmas Eve

Join us for a wonderful traditional candlelight service this Friday night, Christmas Eve, 7 pm at the First Congregational Church, 24 Main St., Pittsfield. The program includes beautiful music by the Chancel Choir and the JuBellation Handbell Choir, scripture lessons and the story of the first Christmas. Bring the whole family for a lovely evening service.


 

Letter To The Editor


To the good citizens of Barnstead, Chichester, Epsom, and Pittsfield:
On December 9th, the BCEP Solid Waste Facility personnel held their public hearing on their budget.  The biggest point of contention was a 4% wage increase for the workers.  Although everyone agreed this indeed is a very well run operation and there is no doubt that because of the dedication and positive work ethic the personnel at this facility have exhibited, the tax burden to each town has not increased in 12 years, it was not an easy vote.  The increase passed without any additional tax burden to the towns. The cost of the BCEP operation comes down to $35.86 per person, per year. I kidded Rick Belanger we should send our kids here.  He looked at me funny.  I meant for an education.


Anyway, it’s great to sit at the table with the four towns selectmen their BCEP representatives.  The issues facing all our towns are the same: trying to keep good, experienced, dedicated, and loyal help, without increasing the tax burden.


A job well done by the committee, the management, and the workers who get it done. I learned from my time at General Electric in Hooksett, you have to be number one or number two to be successful.  The BCEP operation is number one.


On a different note Rick asked me something like what’s up with my different name. Obviously, he missed an earlier letter. He recommended I put it in again.  My father’s name is Henry Schroth (German).  My mother’s name was Eva Piermarocchi (Italian). My mother died when I was 14.  I still miss her.  I heard from a Swiss who understood Italian that Piermarocchi means “first rock.”


I use it to honor my mother and my heritage.


Dan Schroth Piermarocchi
Pittsfield

 


 

From The Superintendent’s Desk
Submitted By John J. Freeman, Ph.D.,
Superintendent Of Schools SAU #51


Our school’s curriculum – or what we teach and expect students to learn – lies at the heart of the educational experience.  Work on our curriculum also lies at the heart of our current high school redesign project.  This work is significantly supported by our School Improvement Grant (SIG), our three-year funding to improve our students’ achievement levels at Pittsfield Middle High School.


The 1990s are sometimes thought of as the time when the standards movement in education began.  At this time, educators, policy makers, business leaders, and citizens in the general public came to believe that schools needed to more explicitly define learning expectations for students.  Prior to this time, it was not uncommon for teachers to make their own curriculum selections based on personal strengths or interests.  It was also not uncommon for teachers to simply march through a textbook cover-to-cover at a dizzying pace.


Of course, these practices caused some problems.  The result was often a patchwork of learning for students in which learners experienced gaps where topics or skills were not addressed and other topics or skills were addressed multiple times.  Often, students just didn’t get it, but no time or resources were allocated to supporting students who struggled.  I recall a story that was told in the large school district where I taught in the 1970s.


The district was home to many apartment complexes and it was not uncommon for students to change schools several times within the district during the course of their formal schooling.  And so, with individual teachers making curriculum decisions in an unsystematic manner, parents were reporting that elementary school children were learning about dinosaurs, for example, for several consecutive years when they moved from school to school while other important science topics were missed altogether.


Another issue that the standards movement sought to address was the acceptance of the failure of many students to learn what was being taught.  The desire to identify essential learning for all students, accompanied by the expectation that all students would achieve learning in an articulated, organized curriculum, strengthened.  Greater rigor and a higher level of success for all students was seen to be important to the future of our students and our nation.


So, throughout the 1990s, most states identified learning standards (New Hampshire in 1995) that articulated learning expectations for all students.  While this seems like a simple step to take, it was not free from problems.  For example, disagreement occurred over what should be considered a standard for learning; this was especially true of the social studies standards.  And, some of the standards lists were so long that teachers could not possibly address all standards effectively, given the time and resources available in most communities.  In fact, one researcher estimated that it would take as many as twenty-two years of schooling to address all standards on the books!
However, the standards did provide strong guidance to schools in organizing the curriculum in a sequential, logical manner.  And, it certainly did help address the problems associated with student movement from school to school, repetition and gaps in learning experiences, and rigor.


Because the state standards were not mandates, schools were not required to adopt and teach to the standards.  However, the states then added a powerful incentive to adopt the standards:  large-scale standardized testing.  The current New Hampshire version of this testing is the New England Common Assessment Program (NECAP) and includes annual tests for students in grades three through eight and grade eleven.


Our school’s poor performance on the NECAP was the criterion used to qualify our school for our SIG, and so our attention naturally turns to the NECAP results and the New Hampshire Curriculum Standards that form the basis for the annual testing.  A fundamental step in this process is assurance that our school curriculum is aligned with the state standards.  This is a process currently underway at PMHS.


Principal Bob Bickford is taking the lead in our teachers’ work to review and align our curriculum to ensure that our students’ learning meets or exceeds the established standards.  This project is further supported through the involvement of two highly qualified consultants who work directly with our teachers:  Literacy Curriculum Consultant Linda Kirszenbaum (who has worked with our PES teachers for many years) and Math Curriculum Consultant Rob Lukasiak (who has worked with many New Hampshire high schools over the years).  Coordinating our literacy work is our district Literacy Coordinator Chris Teague.


Our curriculum alignment work involves an involved process that includes the study of the state standards, matching with what we currently teach, and adjustment to our local Pittsfield curriculum where needed.  This represents a critical step by defining what our students should know and should be able to do when they leave each grade and when they graduate from PMHS.  We are very pleased to have our SIG provide us with the opportunity for this critical work to support our students’ learning and success beyond their PMHS years.


Several other strategies are also being developed to ensure that all students will be successful with the standards.  These include frequent assessments of learning with appropriate adjustments for both individuals and groups as well as the development of early warning systems and interventions to support students who may have difficulties in their learning.  Students’ best interests are served when we pay close attention to how they’re doing and then quickly provide support when needed for long-term successful learning.


Yes, our curriculum lies at the heart of our students’ learning experiences; thankfully, our SIG is providing support for developing an aligned, more rigorous curriculum for all our students.

 


 

2010 Christmas Tree Lighting and Children’s Store


On Saturday, December 4th, The Greater Pittsfield Chamber of Commerce kicked off the Holiday Season by sponsoring the annual Children’s Store and Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration.


The day started with the P.E.S. PTO sponsored Breakfast with Santa.  Many families enjoyed the pancake and sausage feast.  The First Congregational Church hosted a craft fair during the day too.


The much anticipated, Children’s Store was held at the P.E.S. Gym from 9 – noon.  The Store is for “kids only” to purchase new or “nearly” new items mostly priced at .50 each.  Thanks to the tremendous help of over 65 volunteers (acting as elves, gift wrappers, or crowd control), close to 200 kids were able to shop for their families.


We are constantly collecting items for The Store all year long. We desperately need GIFT BAGS.  Please keep us in mind when you are doing your “after Christmas” shopping and cleaning out!


The festivities moved to Dustin Park later in the afternoon.  Bruce and Stacy Locke provided horse and wagon rides, the Joyce Family provided Holiday music, the Fire Department delivered Santa via fire truck and he posed for free photos with all the kids. Bob Legg took the photos and then they were posted on the town website and could be downloaded.  PYW sponsored the annual Gingerbread House Display and Raffle and hot soups and chili could be picked up inside too.  Free hot cocoa, cookies, popcorn and candy canes were provided (thanks to members of the Park St. Baptist Church, Women of Rotary, CHF, 4-H Club, So. Pittsfield Com. Club, the Police Department and American Legion).


Many thanks to the Pittsfield Youth Workshop and the Park St. Baptist Church for allowing people to come inside and warm up.  PYW housed the pictures with Santa, the Gingerbread House display, face painting, hot food items and decorated wreath contest.  The Park St. Baptist Church housed the cookies, cocoa and popcorn.  Thanks to all the helpers in the kitchen and to those that helped pass out the treats too.


A decorated wreath contest was held and winner by popular vote was (#5) Marjorie White.  She won a Holiday Gift Basket donated by Carolyn Allhiser of Northway Bank.


The Blue/Gold Star Mothers joined the celebration, providing stars with military member’s names to be added to the Tree. Thank you to Lea Adams for organizing this wonderful tribute.  The local brownie and girl scout troops (thanks Danielle) led everyone in singing many carols.


At 6 pm, we counted down and the Tree was lit. Many thanks to the “official” tree lighting and decorating committee: Louie Houle, Bill Provencal, Ed Vien, Dave Hartley, Mark Wallace, Chris Ward, Lea and Steve Adams and Fuzz Freese for stringing and testing all the lights.  The Tree and Park look very festive – THANK YOU! 

 
This annual event takes many, many volunteers from local groups, churches, town departments, family and friends.  Thank you to ALL who helped to make it a great day. To learn more about the Greater Pittsfield Chamber of Commerce, please visit our website at www.pittsfieldchamber.org or to volunteer to help next year- call Andi Riel at 435-6346.


Happy New Year to all!

 


 

Dorcas Guild


The Dorcas Guild of the First Congregational Church in Pittsfield met December 14th with sixteen members attending.  President Peggy Jacobs called the meeting to order.  It opened with devotions by Evelyn Richardson, who read from a Celtic Book, which gave instructions for making a “Spirit Pouch” and also included suggestions for filling the pouch once it was completed.  She also read “Evening Prayer” following which, all joined in the Lord’s Prayer.


Next came the bountiful Pot Luck Christmas Party with a great array of delicious foods and desserts, no duplicates, and thoroughly enjoyed by all.


The secretary and treasurer each gave their reports.  The food basket brought by Joan Riel was taken by Sally Lewis and will go next to Bev Moore.  The traveling apron brought by Nancy White went to Evelyn Richard and goes next to Peggy Jacobs.  The mystery package, brought by Shirley Bleckmann was won by Reny Boyd.


The nominating committee brought in a slate of officers for election.  Unanimously voted were Nella Hobson, president; Kathy Bergeron, vice president; Joan Riel, secretary; and Reny Boyd, treasurer.


Program ideas for the year 2011 were put out for discussion and one was chosen for each month.  After all the business was taken care of, a gift exchange and social time was enjoyed by all.


The next meeting will be held on January 11th with Corine Miller and Elaine Coffey as hostesses.  This will be the annual “Birthday Party for all”.  No gifts - just fun.  Members are asked to bring a book for exchange.

 


Obituaries


 

Barry J. Clattenburg


Barry J. Clattenburg, 59, of Concord NH passed away Monday, December 13, 2010 at Concord Hospital, after a long struggle with diabetes. He is survived by his daughter, Samantha Clattenburg, two granddaughters Jessica and Jacqueline, two brothers, Bruce Clattenburg and wife Pat, and Mark Clattenburg and wife Cheryl, and many nieces and nephews.


He was raised in Pittsfield, the son of Warren J. and Marjorie H. (Sherburne) Clattenburg. Barry attended Berkley College of Music in Boston.  Although his first career in the automotive industry in the Concord and greater Manchester area occupied his young adult life, his love for cooking was rekindled during his employment with Shaker Village and In a Pinch Café.


He loved music and the theater, and was involved with the Pittsfield Community Players during the 1970s and 80s, performing such roles as, Marcellus Washburn in The Music Man, and Uncle Max in The Sound of Music. He performed one play with The Northwood Community players, accompanied by his daughter Samantha. 

 
His niece Penny Sawyer, a heath care professional with Concord Hospital, took great care to aid his lasting health issues.


A memorial service was held on Monday, December 20th.

 


 

Donald D. Metcalf


Donald D. Metcalf, 76, of 363 Suncook Valley Highway, died Saturday at the Concord Hospice House.


He was born in New Bedford MA, the son of Roger and Roxanne Metcalf. And he lived in No. Weymouth, MA for many years moving to Pittsfield in 1981. He was predeceased by his wife Natalie (Colarusso) Metcalf and a daughter Debbie Ansberg. Survivors include A son Allen Metcalf,  daughters, Roxanne Lavoie, Laurie Metcalf and Jane Prescott.  A brother, Paul Metcalf of Pittsfield. His longtime companion Donna Darte.  9 Grand children , 2 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was known for his sense of humor. He also loved anything to do with airplanes, attended air shows and flew model, remote controlled, airplanes  He also loved, boating, fishing and skeet shooting.


A graveside service was held  at the Pineground Cemetery, Chichester. The Rev. David Stasiak, Pastor of the first Congregational Church of Pittsfield, officiated. The Perkins & Pollard Memorial Home assisted with arrangements.


To sign an online guest book, log on to www.perkinsandpollard.com

 


Arline L. St. Laurent

Arline L. St. Laurent, 92, of 67 Main St. died at home Saturday, December 18th following a brief illness.

She was born in, Pittsfield  the daughter of Curtis and Victoria Perry.  She was a longtime member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church. She was the widow of Norman St. Laurent who died in 1988. Members of her family include 3 sons Norman St. Laurent and his wife Nancy of Omaha, NE, Francis St. Laurent  of Boscawen and Michael St. Laurent  of Loudon .One Grandson, Brian St. Laurent and several nieces and nephews.
A prayer service was held at the Perkins & Pollard Memorial Home on Wednesday. The Rev. John Loughnane, Pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes officiated. Burial followed in the Floral Park Cemetery.

 


 

Robert A. Smith, Sr.


Now in the arms of Jesus, Robert A. Smith Sr., 73, “Smitty” died Saturday December 18, 2010 at home after a period of declining health.  He was born and raised in Candia, the son of Carl and Ethelda Smith.  For the past 25 years, he has lived in Alexandria.  Prior to retirement, he woked as a lineman for I.C. Reed and later for the Riverside Diner, Petro Mart, and Rhude & Sons construction.


In his free time, Smitty enjoyed fishing, hunting and picking blackberries.  He also enjoyed the company of his pugs and time spent playing pool.


Family members include daughters: Kerri Lizotte of Northwood; Bobbieann Davies of Cambridge, MD; and sons Robert “Snuff” Smith Jr.; Paul Smith and Jimma Smith all of Cambridge, MD; 17 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.  He also leaves his extended family, the Rhudes of Alexandria, with whom he has lived  since 1990.


A memorial service was held on December 21, 2010 at the Emmons Funeral Home, 115 South Main St., Bristol.  Committal services were held Wednesday, December 22,  at the  Candia Village Cemetery, Rte 43 Candia.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the NH Veteran’s Home, Activities Fund, 139 Winter Street, Tilton, NH 03276.

 


 


 

 











 

 

 

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