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Pittsfield NH News

March 7, 2012

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



 

Those Celebrating Birthdays are: March 8, Tim Pethic; March 9, Crystal Blodgett, Stan Bailey; March 11, Evan Ward; March 12, Brett Tiede; March 13, Lindsey Catalano, Shannon Brown.

 

A Very Happy Birthday To One and All!

 


 

Play Ball! Pittsfield Youth Sports would like to announce softball and baseball signups for girls and boys aged 4-18. Signups will be held in the Pittsfield Community Center on Tuesday, March 6 (5:30 pm – 8:00 pm), Saturday, March 10 (9:00 am – 2:00 pm), and Thursday, March 15 (5:30 pm – 8:00 pm). If your child is new to the program, please bring a copy of his/her birth certificate to signups. If you have questions, please contact Glenn Amnott at 435-7905.

 


 

School Lunch Menus

March 12 - 16, 2012

 

PES

Monday

Shepherd’s Pie

Ground beef and gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet corn, wheat dinner roll, fresh Mac apple

 

Tuesday

New England

Homemade chicken n’ biscuits, peas and carrots, mashed potatoes, pears

 

Wednesday

Mamma Mia

Lazy lasagna with homemade Italian meat sauce, garlic roll, mixed veggies, orange wedges

 

Thursday

Doggin It

Hot dog on a bun, roasted potato wedges, green beans, peaches

 

Friday

Pot o’ Gold Pizza

Leprechaun cheese pizza, or chef’s topping, Emerald Isle tossed salad, wearin o’ the green jello

 

PMHS

Monday

Hot Diggity Dog

Hot dogs in a wheat bun, oven fries, mixed veggies, orange wedges

 

Tuesday

BBQ Bonanza

BBQ pulled pork, dirty rice, warm corn bread, homemade coleslaw, peaches and cream

 

Wednesday

Chicken Mania

Chicken parmesan pasta marinara, garlic bread, green beans, fruit cocktail

 

Thursday

Blue Plate Special

Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef, sweet corn and mashed potatoes, wheat rolls, cinnamon apple slices

 

Friday

St. Patrick’s Day

Emerald Isle turkey stew, roasted potato wedges, root vegetable medley, wheat dinner roll, wearin o’ the green jello

 


 

Letter

 

Dear Pittsfield voter:

As a member of the current Planning Board, but not speaking for the board, I am writing to clearly state my opinion on Amendment #3. I think it is just plain wrong! We are elected to represent the voters and not make decisions based on what we darn well please. In spite of this, the Planning Board is again trying to ram this amendment through – for the third time. I have attended all of the public hearings and not one person showed up in favor of this Article. Yet, when the voters and citizens who would be impacted by this Article spoke up, they were completely over-ruled.

 

With regard to a letter in The Suncook Valley Sun on 2/22/12, I plan to keep my word and maintain my opposition to Amendment #3. If anyone would like to speak with me about this I can be reached at 435-8535 or my cell, 608-6139.

 

Respectfully,

Pat Heffernan

 


 

Letter

 

To the Citizens of Pittsfield:

Please join me in supporting Erica Anthony for the Town Clerk/Tax Collector position. I have had the pleasure of knowing Erica "forever". We have gone to school together, worked together and volunteered together.

 

Erica is an extremely dedicated, smart, honest, hardworking person. She’s worked in customer service for over 20 years and was always courteous and professional. She is very organized and detail oriented. She always puts the customer first and would take whatever steps necessary to deliver great service.

 

Her commitment to our community is proven by her volunteer work. She is the past President and treasurer of the PES PTO, treasurer of the Booster Club, a member on the Board of Directors of Blueberry Express Daycare, and a member of the Community Advisory Board.

 

With her past work experience and her terrific community involvement, Erica is the perfect choice for the Town Clerk/Tax Collector position. She will work hard for our community.

 

Please vote for Erica Anthony on Tuesday, March 13th.

 

Sincerely,

Andi Riel

Pittsfield

 


 

Mills of Manchester, New Hampshire and Manchester, England

 

On March 20, 2012 at 1:00 pm the Pittsfield Area Senior Center will host a NH Humanities To Go presentation, The Mills of Manchester, New Hampshire and Manchester, England. The program will compare industrialization and the lives of workers in northwest England with New England. The comparison of the forms industrialization took and the different experiences of workers in the two countries shed light on the era of industrialization during the second half of the 19th century, particularly at the Amoskeag Mill in Manchester, NH.

 

The program will be presented by Sandra S. LeBeau, Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh; M.A.T., Yale. Ms. LeBeau taught English history at Trenton State College; teaching in Lancaster, England added to her specialty in Victorian and labor history.

 

Please call the Senior Center at 435-8482 if you would like to come to the noon luncheon of soup and salad bar, scalloped potatoes, and pudding.

 

The Senior Center received a grant from the NH Humanities Council to present The Mills of Manchester. The Humanities Council nurtures the joy of learning and inspires community engagement by bringing life enhancing ideas to the people of NH. Join us for coffee, refreshments and a lively discussion.

 


 

Letter

 

My fellow Pittsfield residents:

I ask you to consider voting for Larry Konopka for a seat on The Board of Selectmen. The first time I met Larry was during the 2006 Town Elections and I was impressed with the knowledge of small town politics that he was able to pass on to me, since I was new here. During the ice storm of 2006, Larry was out making sure that residents were able to use generators, made sure they could leave their homes if need be and was at the emergency shelter that was set up. Even though he has his own business, he unselfishly gives up his time when it comes to actions for the people of Pittsfield.

 

No matter what the job is, Mr. Konopka gives 100% of his time and effort, not for any one person or group, but for all of us, the people of Pittsfield. A vote for Mr. Konopka is a vote for Pittsfield. I hope to see you at the Town Election this year and that you help Larry Konopka receive the votes he so richly deserves.

 

Sincerely,

Merrill A. Vaughan

 


 

Letter

 

Dear Pittsfield residents:

The requirement of Class V frontage in town subdivision rules is good town planning that shows foresight and benefits all the town’s taxpayers. Economically, it shows foresight because it is a way to ensure that public works, fire departments, police departments, and school buses do not ultimately have to respond to emergencies or other needs on Class VI roads that may not be properly maintained. Pittsfield’s fire chief testified at a December 15, 2011 PB meeting that all fire/medical emergencies required their response, no choice. If the road is not maintained, damage may be done to vehicles, and the response time is severely hampered. Any unplanned cost related to such emergency response is borne by all Pittsfield taxpayers.

 

Our Planning Board has a responsibility to plan in the interest of all the taxpayers in the town. They must plan with respect to future financial/capital reserve needs of the public works/fire/police of the town because our taxes pay these costs. It is poor planning to allow growth that presents unplanned costs to the town in this way.

 

Instead, the cost of properly developing a subdivision with at least Class V standards should always be borne by the developer of the property.

 

Amendment #3 requires that subdivisions have frontage on Class V roads or better. By voting "yes" to this amendment, we vote for the possibility that foresight and good planning may keep taxes as low as possible.

 

Planning Board members Clayton Wood and Ted Mitchell, have shown they have this foresight and we should re-elect them both.

 

Susan Willoughby

 


 

Letter

 

Hello residents of Pittsfield:

 

Our basketball season has come to an end for the season.

 

There are a few people I would like to thank. If it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t have basketball in Pittsfield. First I would like to thank the parents for making sure the players made it to practice, and games. I would also like to thank the school and staff for all they do for the kids and all the high school and middle school kids who go out of their way to help the kids who play park-rec basketball. I would like to thank the referees. I would also like to thank Joel Chagnon from Bell Brothers for donating a cable so we could get the score board fixed.

 

All the Pittsfield teams did well in the tournaments; 3-4 grade boys placed second, 5-6 grade boys placed second. 5-6 grade girls took first place.

 

Great job coaches for all the time you spent helping these kids. I want to thank the athletic department for letting us use their gym for our games this season. I heard a lot of very positive things about the high school gym from the other towns.

 

Thanks again,

Darrell Wages

Pittsfield Park-Rec

Basketball Rep

 


 

Letter

 

I write to support Erica Anthony for Town Clerk/Tax Collector. Erica is an educated, thoughtful individual possessing a first rate intellect, and abilities. She has the good common sense of a fine mother, and as a lifelong Pittsfield resident, is very involved in the community. Erica graduated with a BA from Wheaton College, and worked in the finance and accounting department at the Weaving Company for 20 years. I know her to be of the highest character, and have yet to meet a person who doesn’t like her, and think very highly of her, and her abilities. The position of Town Clerk/Tax Collector requires a variety of detailed oriented skills, both financial, and customer service in nature. Erica has the education, work experience, disposition and life experience to maintain, and exceed the high level of service, and responsiveness we have all come to expect from Liz’s office. I urge your support and Vote for Erica Anthony for Pittsfield Town Clerk and Tax Collector.

 

I also write to urge your Vote for Bill Miskoe for Planning Board. Common Sense and Experience are the hallmarks of Bill Miskoe. Few people in Pittsfield are more competent, or experienced than Bill on most subjects, let alone Planning Board governance. He is honest, diligent, forthright, and for the past 8 years put forth a yeoman’s effort in doing the voluminous and tedious work required by the position. Bill is a public servant in the truest and best sense of the words and it would be a big mistake, huge, to not return Bill Miskoe to the Planning Board. Please Vote for Bill Miskoe for Pittsfield Planning Board.

 

Sincerely,

Lester Firstenberger

 


 

Letter To The Editor

 

To the good citizens of Pittsfield:

I support a vote for Linda Small and Larry Konopka for the office of Selectmen.

 

First and most important, they know why, as an elected official, you never use the position to help a friend; because you will soon use the position to go after someone you don’t like.

 

Second, I think they have the experience and desire to try and stabilize our tax rate at $30.66 per thousand; no higher.

 

As far as the Planning Board’s proposal; throwing away more land rights and getting nothing in return. Why do they bother taking an oath to the NH Constitution if they are unwilling to use it?

 

Dan Schroth Piermarocchi

 


 

Letter

 

To the voters of Pittsfield:

The Board of Selectmen has proposed, once again, that they appoint the members of the Planning Board rather than have us elect them. This was voted down in the recent past, and I am not sure why the Selectmen have not understood what "no" means. I personally like to have a say in who represents me and ask you to join me in voting "no" to this proposition.

 

The Planning Board has done a terrific job of clarifying the problem of subdivisions. Some folks want to be able to develop their properties on roads currently classified as Class VI. These are roads which do not allow access for emergency vehicles, and which are presently not serviced by the town. If we permit developers to subdivide on these roads, we the taxpayers will eventually have to absorb the costs of upgrading to allow for emergency access and plowing in winter. Amendment #3 requires that subdivisions have frontage on Class V roads or better. I would urge you to join me in voting "yes" to this amendment, thus keeping our taxes as low as possible. I also urge you to vote "yes" to the other two amendments, which concern parking regulations and making the powers of the Zoning Board of adjustment conform to state law.

 

The members of the Planning Board have shown they are able to work together in a civil manner, and they have come up with long-overdue amendments. Two of these members, Clayton Wood and Ted Mitchell, have stuck their necks out for us in this election year, and they deserve our votes. Please join me in re-electing Clayton Wood and Ted Mitchell to the Planning Board.

 

Betsy Cadbury

 


 

Letter

Pittsfield’s Unsung Heroes

 

Citizen of Pittsfield:

It is that time of the year for me to show my appreciation to all of those "Unsung Heroes" who make Pittsfield a better place to live for all of us. It isn’t a perfect place (yet), but things do keep getting better.

 

Firstly, think of our Police Department. For me, every time I needed their help they were there - courteous, helpful and prompt. The same goes for our Fire Department, our Ambulance service and our active Senior Center.

 

Then too, there are individuals who my family and I have found helpful and responsive to our needs and the needs of our neighbors. One in particular is Larry Konopka. As most of us know, Larry has been an active selectman for our community. He is again seeking that important office. Larry has our vote. He has our vote for many reasons, but here are just a few of what I feel are the important ones.

 

He did serve for four years as a selectman and with that a full seven years on our planning board. As if that alone wasn’t enough to give him a broad overview of our community needs, he was also the Deputy Health Officer, the Deputy Welfare Director, as well as the Deputy Building and Code Officer. He still serves as the Deputy Health Officer as well as the Deputy Welfare Director. With all of this in-depth and broad background he could be referred to as "Mr. Pittsfield."

 

So, with all this said, thanks for taking your time to read this. Please be sure to get out and vote for your "unsung heroes" here in Pittsfield on March 13. See you at the town hall.

 

Tom Adamson

Citizen of Pittsfield

 


 

Letter To The Editor

 

The Planning Board has been running well with Ted Mitchell as Chair and Clayton Woods as Vice-Chair. The Board has been working cohesively together and has accomplished quite a bit. Being Chair is no easy job. I have not always personally agreed with everything the Planning Board has done, but overall they have done a good job and both Ted and Clayton deserve your vote.

 

Fred Hast is running for Selectman. Over the years, I have been on many Boards and Committees with Fred and we do not always agree either, but he has lots of knowledge and the best interest of the Town at heart. I am voting for Fred and hope you will too.

 

Many thanks to Liz Hast for the fine job she has done as Town Clerk/Tax Collector all these years. We are losing a good dedicated person as she steps down.

 

Please remember to Vote Yes on Amendment 3. We need to make sure we do not have excessive road costs that increase our taxes.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Helen Schoppmeyer

 


 

Letter

 

In last week’s Sun, Mr. Fitzgerald wrote, "I have requested documentation (public information) from the Planning Board for the last eight weeks. They have continuously denied having any records, which they used in compiling this amendment [no. 3]. At last night’s Select Board meeting they finally admitted these records exist. ... How can anyone trust these people who have continuously lied to the public?"

 

On January 30, the Planning Board gave Mr. Fitzgerald a blizzard of information under Right-to-Know. The board also gave Mr. Fitzgerald all attorney-client-privileged information that the board used in compiling Amendment 3. The Local Government Center said that the board did not have to give Mr. Fitzgerald this privileged information.

 

The Right-to-Know information included tax maps and tax cards proving that Amendment 3 will not diminish property values on Class VI highways. Compare the excess acreages of Map R19, Lot 6 (a currently subdividable Class VI property) to Map R29, Lot 1-3 (a currently unsubdividable Class VI property). The excess acreages have exactly equal value per acre.

 

Because the information did not show what Mr. Fitzgerald wanted, he demanded that the Selectmen hold a hearing to remove an elected Planning Board member from office; otherwise, he said, he will sue the town. Following his demand, the Selectmen discussed notice requirements for the removal hearing.

 

Mr. Fitzgerald’s complaint is not a he-said, she-said dispute. The Planning Board’s answers to Mr. Fitzgerald are available for public inspection at the Town Hall. Learn the truth about Mr. Fitzgerald’s complaint and how the Selectmen are using it to try to destroy and control your elected Planning Board.

 

Jim Pritchard

 


 

Tilton School Names MacMorran Scholars

 

James Heffernan ’14 of Pittsfield, N.H., and Claire Cortese ’12 of Pittsfield, N.H., were named MacMorran Scholars at Tilton School for the Second Semester. To be a MacMorran Scholar, students must achieve high and scholarly effort honor roll status, have no unexcused absences and show excellence in citizenship.

 

MacMorran Scholars are named in honor of John F. MacMorran, who was Head of School from 1971-1982 and an educational leader committed to academic excellence. Tilton developed the program to recognize the excellent scholarship and effort of Tilton students who achieve at the highest level at the School.

 

Tilton School is an independent, coeducational, boarding and day school in Tilton, N.H., serving students in grades 9 through 12 and post-graduates. Tilton’s curricular model stresses the acquisition of skills, knowledge and understanding in five areas: communication, critical thinking, community, creativity and character. Tilton School believes in the power of each student’s individual potential for lifelong personal success and service.

 


 

Letter

 

To the citizens of Pittsfield:

I am writing in support of Erica Anthony for Town Clerk/Tax Collector. Working with Erica on several committees I have always found her to be hardworking, honest and caring. All of which will serve her well in the position of Town Clerk/Tax Collector.

 

Erica’s work experience as a customer service representative affords her with the necessary skills to perform the job as Town Clerk/Tax Collector. Erica will bring the highest level of service and professionalism to the customers of the town offices.

 

Erica’s involvement in numerous committees and organizations in town shows her commitment to the improvement of Pittsfield. She will bring this same dedication to the Town Offices.

 

Please vote for Erica Anthony for Town Clerk/Tax Collector.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

Stephanie Lamere

 


 

Letter

 

Dear Pittsfield voters:

The Pittsfield Planning Board proposes three zoning ordinance amendments, which we respectfully ask you to approve, March 13th:

 

• Amendment 1: Parking Regulations.

 

Last year you approved the reduction of parking requirements for downtown businesses. However, no way existed to implement the reduction fairly and consistently. This amendment defines a reduction, based on the floor area that the business uses. The Planning Board decided on this method because it has a direct relation to taxes that the business owner pays.

 

• Amendment 2: Powers of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

 

Amendment 2 complies with state law.

 

• Amendment 3: Define frontage for subdivision as Class V or better highway frontage.

 

Class V or better highways are dirt or paved roads that the town or state maintains. The Planning Board proposes restricting subdivision on roads not maintained by town or state (Class VI highways and private roads) because development on those roads stretches town services, endangers town personnel and equipment, complicates town planning, and ultimately raises taxes. For these reasons, most other towns require frontage on Class V or better highways in order to subdivide.

 

Pre-existing lots will remain buildable. Subdivision on Class VI roads will be allowed if, the owner does necessary road improvements or gets a variance from having to make road improvements.

 

These requirements for Class VI subdivision are reasonable and responsible. State law doesn’t give property owners on Class VI roads a "right" to subdivide without road improvements. Individuals knew, before purchasing the property that it was on a Class VI highway. They knew the limitations, and the property’s price reflected those limitations.

 

Amendment 1, 2, and 3 are necessary to plan and manage Pittsfield’s future, in a fair, tax-conscious way.

 

Please vote for these amendments on March 13.

 

Sincerely,

Ted Mitchell, Chair

Pittsfield Planning Board

 


 

Pittsfield Boys JV.JPG

The Pittsfield JV Boys Basketball team participated in the 11th Annual JV Boys Basketball Tournament sponsored by the Pittsfield Police Association this past weekend. The boys had victories over Woodsville, and Gorham but fell short in the Championship to Littleton 45-43.

 


 

Letter

 

This year’s Planning Board election has five candidates: Of the five, the incumbents Ted Mitchell and Clayton Wood deserve to be reelected.

 

Ted Mitchell and Clayton Wood currently serve as chair and vice-chair of the Planning Board, respectively. Under their leadership, the PB has proposed zoning amendments that are logical, clear, compliant with the spirit of state planning statutes, and consider the impact development will have on the taxpayers in the future. Most importantly, they aim for tax fairness by considering the cost effect of all services which will be imposed on the taxpayer as a result of development.

 

These two gentlemen have shown the ability to follow planning practices commonly recognized as "sound," while also using the counsel and advice from outside experts with greater land-use knowledge--sources such as the Central NH Regional Planning Commission.

 

The fact is, many of the previous planning boards have resisted following "tried and true", commonly accepted planning practices. The result has been an increased stress on town services, which are ultimately provided by, and paid for, by the taxpayers.

 

These misguided PB practices, over the years, have yielded an alarmingly-high tax rate. A rate which is now among the highest (if not the highest) in the state. It should be clear that this unique, high-tax status has Not been achieved because of good planning practices in the past.

 

I strongly urge all concerned taxpayers to please consider maintaining the continuity of the current Planning Board, and to give "lower taxes through good planning" a chance to succeed.

 

Please vote for Mitchell and Wood and for zoning amendments 1, 2, and 3 (ballot articles 2, 3, and 4) that the Planning Board is proposing.

 

Thank you,

Daren Nielsen

 


 

Pittsfield Time Capsule 2062

 

On March 15, 2012, The Pittsfield Historical Society will be presenting a brief history of time capsules and creating one of their own. Community members are asked to bring small items of archeological interest to contribute to our 12"x11"x9" waterproof, fireproof, time capsule to be locked and stored for the next fifty years.

 

Historians suggest that items which describe the daily lives of the people who created them greatly increase the value of the time capsule. They might include items relative to time, technology, money, photography, personal items, etc. Be creative. What will interest the community of 2062?

 

Come and see what others bring.

 

Please call Mark Wallace at 435-8622 if you have any questions.

 

 


 

Letter

 

Please support all of the Planning Board’s proposed amendments on this year’s ballot and vote for both me and Ted Mitchell so we can continue our efforts to work on a positive growth plan for Pittsfield.

 

The focus of our activity this year was on the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that the voters passed on Ballot Day. Our discussions lasted for over 6 months on just the 3 proposed amendments for this year’s ballot! The Select Board’s own representative has voted for all three amendments to be on the ballot at least three times – twice after public hearings! His comment on record: the frontage problem must be corrected now to support the subdivision regulations. Now he claims that the Planning Board is out of control. Who is holding him accountable?

 

Our critics have said there is no need for a frontage definition since there are no problems. I disagree. It is clear that the Board has been very inconsistent over the last 20 years even with infrequent subdivision activity. This is the same system that they say does not need fixing! I have reviewed many Zoning Ordinances for NH towns and can say one thing for certain – a good zoning ordinance requires many years of work and is not the type of thing you want to start when there are problems.

 

Our critics will have you believe we have singled out the citizens who live on Class VI roads. The State has already done that and requires the town to consider "such scattered or premature subdivision as would necessitate the excessive expenditure of public funds". It would have been nice to hear that concern at least once from the current Select Board when they did everything possible to undermine and destroy the current Planning Board.

 

God Bless our Country

 

Sincerely,

Clayton Wood

 


 

Letter

 

I’m writing this letter in support of Erica Anthony for Town Clerk/Tax Collector because I believe she is the best qualified for the job with her experience in Customer Service, which she has worked in for 20 years.

 

She is very involved in town affairs. She has strong work ethics and has shown much commitment to our town.

 

Thank you,

"Reny" Boyd

 


 

Election Day Raffle

 

The Friends of the Josiah Carpenter Library will be holding their annual Spring Election Day Raffle. Be sure to stop by our table at Pittsfield Town Hall on Election Day, March 13, 2012, to purchase your raffle ticket and take a try at winning the St. Patrick’s Day gift basket. All proceeds go to benefit the Josiah Carpenter Library.

Thank you for supporting your library!

 


 

Letter To The Editor

 

I would like to offer my support to Fred Hast and Larry Konopka to be elected to the Board of Selectmen. I have personally worked with both of them, and even though we don’t always agree, I have a great deal of respect for their work ethic. Both men have worked extremely hard for the town and have the necessary experience to benefit the Board.

 

I am also supporting Bill Miskoe and Jesse Pacheco for the Planning Board. Both are fair and have their own minds, as does Pat Heffernan.

 

We must defeat Article 3 and keep our property rights. We will not be able to do this with Wood, Mitchell and Pritchard. They have a majority, 3-2.

 

The Planning Board is out of control. I have a tape of the Planning Board meeting on 1-5-12 and the language used by one member during the meeting is unbelievable and totally unprofessional. The Chairman, Mr. Mitchell and the Vice Chairman, Mr. Wood, allowed this language. In addition, Mr. Mitchell changed his mind and his vote. He went along with the people who did the swearing.

 

Defeat Article 3! It is the worst Article I have ever witnessed.

 

Bob Lincoln

Pittsfield

 


 

Letter To The Editor

 

Dear Taxpayer:

In doing a 2011 analysis of expenditures, there are just a couple of things I’ll bring to your attention. I’d like to ask beforehand that you allow for human error. While I’ve tried to be as accurate as possible, these numbers are approximate given the data I have to work with. I’m certain you will get the gist of my message regardless.

 

First, it cost you the taxpayer approximately $47,000 (2,500 hours) for sick compensation throughout the year. Please note the equivalence to a full time position. Now, let’s take a closer look at some specifics. I’ll use the police department as an example since it is one of the larger departmental budgets. In 2011 out of a total of approximately $506,000 salaries paid within the PD (not including office staff), only about 53% of this expenditure went to patrolling the streets of Pittsfield.

 

Patrolmen: $268,697; Sick: $15,706; Special Detail: $44,186; Holiday and Vacation: $48,954; Other non-patrol (admin, grants, etc): $128,496; Total: $506,039.

 

Next, I want to disclose to you, the taxpayer, that the Board of Selectmen authorized payment for an exorbitant amount of accumulated vacation to an individual leaving the employ of Pittsfield (Minutes 1/31/12), despite that our Personnel Policy clearly states only (80) hours can be carried forward from year to year. You’ll find $10,298 encumbered for this purpose. Further discussion on this topic can be found in the Minutes 2/21/12.

 

Folks, I do not believe this to be an example of good stewardship of your tax dollars. If you agree and would like to see accountability within your local government, please cast your vote for me on March 13th. Additionally, while voting for experience is important, so is integrity. Be sure to know the candidates you are voting for.

 

In your continued service,

Linda Small

 


 

TOPS News

Submitted By Terrie Azotea

 

Well, it has been another great week for weight loss. We sure have all been trying and it is showing at the scales. With the winter months still here and the days getting longer, it is very important to stay active and busy.

 

We had a speaker this past week who was awesome. She spoke on lifestyle changes and changes we should make. She said "Am I Hungry or I Am Hungry… something to think about." Thoughts create beliefs and create reaction, balancing the good with the bad; and how it helps with weight management. Decode your feelings and ask yourselves is this physical hunger or is it head hungry? Ask yourself does my body need to have the food, or do I see certain foods and my head says that I am hungry when I am really not?

 

Stress also plays a big factor on when we want to get something to eat or are we just doing it because something has triggered it.

 

These were just some thoughts to think about this week. So, I thought she was an awesome speaker and I got a lot out of her speech.

 

At TOPS we try to have speakers every once in a while and it sure is enjoyable. If anyone is interested in seeing what we are about, we meet on Tuesday nights at 5:30 for weigh-in and 6:30 for our meeting.

 

For information, please call Laurel Tiede at 269-8721 or Pat Smith at 435-5333. They would love to answer any questions you might have.

 

Positive words to think about... A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It’s jolted by every pebble on the road". (Henry Ward)

 

Hope everyone has a great week! See you lighter next week at the scales!

 


 

Letter

 

Mr. Miskoe has reversed his position on frontage multiple times over the years. In 2005, in an SV Sun letter, he wrote in favor of Class V or better frontage. Then, for a few years, he reversed his position. Then in a 2009 SV Sun letter, Mr. Miskoe once again went back to supporting Class V or better frontage. This year, he has reversed his position yet again. While these position reversals are problematic, there are more concerning issues regarding events that began a few months ago leading up to this year’s town elections.

 

First of all, look at the range of dates above regarding the frontage issue. This has been going on for over 7 years! I guarantee you this is another record-breaking statistic for how long a town can remain undecided about a frontage definition. And, the Planning Board is facing the possibility of dismantlement only because of their determination to keep their three amendments on the ballot for a town wide vote. By the way, voters, did you know that you often don’t know what you are voting for, who you are voting for, and often don’t understand the implications of your vote? You can read this in Select Board minutes.

 

The Board of Selectmen has had quite a year, to say the least. This last move, however, to dismantle an autonomous planning board that has functioned completely within their state mandated guidelines, is quite a move. Concentrating on those running for the office of Selectman this year, the Select Board minutes indicate that Mr. Larry Konopka initiated this idea. Mr. Konopka’s political tactics have been on my radar for some time, and although he will likely be elected, he will not have my vote.

 

Please keep the elected 5-member Planning Board intact.

 

God Bless Our Troops,

Rachel Wood

 


 

Free Tax Help For Military Personnel And Their Families

Submitted By Merrill A. Vaughan Commander

American Legion Peterson-Cram Post 75

Pittsfield, NH 03263

 

Free tax return preparation assistance is available for eligible military members and their spouses. The IRS and U.S. Armed Forces participate in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which provides free tax advice, tax preparation, return filing and other tax assistance to military members and their families.

 

Here are five things you need to know about free military tax assistance:

 

1. Armed Forces Tax Council: The Armed Forces Tax Council oversees the operation of the military tax programs worldwide, conducting outreach with the IRS to military personnel and their families. The AFTC consists of tax program coordinators for the Marine Corps, Air Force, Army, Navy and Coast Guard.

 

2. Volunteer tax sites: Volunteer assistors at military-based VITA sites are trained to address military-specific tax issues, such as combat zone tax benefits and the Earned Income Tax Credit guidelines.

 

3. What to bring: To receive free tax assistance, bring the following records to your military VITA site:

 

• Valid photo identification

 

• Social Security cards for you, your spouse and dependents or a Social Security number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration

 

• Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents

 

• Wage and earning statement(s) like Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R

 

• Interest and dividend statements (Forms 1099)

 

• A copy of last year’s federal and state tax returns, if available

 

• Checkbook for routing and account numbers for direct deposit

 

• Total amount paid for day care and day care provider’s identifying number

 

• Other relevant information about income and expenses

 

4. Joint returns: If your filing status is Married Filing Jointly and you wish to file your tax return electronically, both you and your spouse should be present to sign the required forms. If it isn’t possible for both of you to be present, a valid power of attorney that allows tax preparation can be used to sign and file the return.

 

5. Special exception: There is a special exception to using a power of attorney for spouses in combat zones. The exception allows the filing spouse to e-file a joint return with only a written statement stating the other spouse is in a combat zone and unable to sign.

 

For more information, review IRS Publication 3, Armed Forces’ Tax Guide, available on the IRS Web site at www.irs.gov or order a free copy by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

 


 

What If You Could Save A Life?

 

Soon there will be an opportunity to do so by registering as a marrow donor. You must be between 18 and 60 years old and in good health. There is no out of pocket costs to join the National Marrow Donor Program. Help us in the fight against leukemia, lymphoma and other blood disorders. Registration is simple and the process requires only a cheek swab.

 

Please join us on Saturday, March 10, 2012 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Nippo Lake Golf Club, 88 Stagecoach Road, Barrington, NH.

 

For any questions call, Jennifer St. Peter of the Be The Match Registry at 401-248-5762.

 


 

Letter

An Orwellian Tale: 2024

 

Please remember, the hypothetical cost to the town by Class VI property owners is based on the assumption that these folks want to live differently and are plotting to bankrupt Pittsfield. That is a fallacy. Also, the reduction in tax rate is barely perceptible. Check the records. I submit this curious tale for your consideration:

 

Some townspeople decide that most people hate mowing their lawns. They point to others who don’t mow their lawns regularly, the infirm, the artistic, the poverty stricken and yes, the lazy. They grouse about what an eyesore the unkempt lawns are and how much work the beautiful lawns require. These folks get elected to town office and begin to tackle the lawn problem. They propose a town grass cutting service for every land owner for a small tax increase.

 

The vigilant town’s people vote "no new taxes" (even the ones who hate mowing their lawns). These undaunted officials then "restructure" their proposal to solve the lawn problem. This time they propose a tax decrease for everyone, as well as a weekly town grass cutting service using the most up-to-date equipment and highly skilled personnel, in exchange for the property deeds of the town’s people. Not to worry though, the heirs of the property owners will receive first right of refusal when the town sells some assets in the future to finance this bold venture.

 

The town’s people joyously vote for this win/win proposal. After all what do you do with land other than mow the grass anyway? I can’t remember if these people lived happily ever after in their nanny town…

 

We Americans are collectively bankrupting our governments. It isn’t the few Class VI property owners leading that charge.

 

Please vote "No" on Articles 3, 4 and 5 on March 13th.

 

Diane Rider

 


Obituaries


 

Marjorie Louise Small Fulton

 

Marjorie Louise Small Fulton of Reston Va. formerly of Raleigh, N.C. died Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at Cameron Glen Health and Rehab Center.

 

Marge was a native of Pittsfield, N.H. and was the daughter of the late John and Florence (Arliln) Small. She had resided in Reston since 2008 and prior to that in Raleigh since 1993. She made many great friends at the Mount Vernon Baptist Church and was an active participant in the activities there, which she greatly missed upon her relocation to Virginia.

 

Her husband of 64 years, Donald Samuel Fulton, preceded her in death in 2006, as did eight of her siblings. She is survived by her daughter, Donna Fulghum and husband Graham of Reston, Va.; her son, Gary Fulton of Middleton Ct.; three sisters Christine Avery of Woodstock, N.H., Rachel Wade of Ocala, Fl., Nancy Anderson of Dover N.H. and a brother Elliott Small of Greenacres, Fl.

 

A memorial service will be held at a later date in July at the Mount Vernon Baptist Church, and burial will be a private service.

 


 

Richard H. Osborne

 

Mr. Richard H. Osborne, 83, of 10 Corrigan St., Gorham, NH, passed away on Friday, January 27, 2012 at the St. Vincent de Paul Rehab and Nursing Center in Berlin.

 

He was born in Loudon, NH, on August 13, 1928, the son of Richard C. and Ethel (Hodgdon) Osborne and grew up in Pittsfield, NH, where he graduated from high school.

 

Richard served in the US Army where he began driving trucks and continued to drive trucks until his retirement at age 77. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, woodworking and reading.

 

Members of the family include his wife Bonnie (Kilton) Osborne of Gorham, NH; a brother, Paul E. Osborne and wife Louise of Oberlin, Ohio; stepchildren, Amy Sturiale of Indiana, Allison Nestor of Penn., Audrey Munn of New Hampshire, Russell N. Drew of New Hampshire, Jennifer R. Costello and husband Scott of Eielson AFB, AK, and Erica M. Drew and significant other Kevin Steady of Gorham, NH; many grandchildren.

 

Burial will be held in the spring in the Meadowview Cemetery in Amherst, NH.

 

To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.bryantfuneralhome.net.

 


 


 

 











 

 

 

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