BERLIN — The 2nd Annual North Country College Access Convention will be held on Friday, November 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at White Mountains Community College in Berlin. The goal of the event is to encourage underrepresented students from the 13 public high schools in Northern New Hampshire to pursue higher education. This event promises to promote higher education as a realistic aspiration. Registration is free for students.
In 2007, The New Hampshire College & University Council (NHCUC) in collaboration with Campus Compact for New Hampshire (CCNH) received a grant from the Jane’s Trust Foundation to create the Access NH Initiative and build a statewide effort focused on higher education access and retention.
“Public perception and low expectations impact the number of high school graduates who pursue postsecondary education in Northern New Hampshire. Many factors play into reasons why, including socio-economic and financial,” says Tom Horgan, president of the NH College & University Council. “Geographically, the remote location of these towns does not lend itself to the same recruiting efforts and visits from colleges and universities. It is critical for students from these thirteen high schools to hear the same message as students from other parts of the state. College is a realistic aspiration and one that has become a necessity with the shift in workforce development up north.”
Hundreds of underrepresented high school students from across the state will attend panel presentations and workshops, helping them pave the way to college. This conference offers panel presentations from current college students regarding their college experience and their challenges and successes. College admission experts from various 2-year and 4-year New Hampshire institutions will provide insight on the admission process. Students will learn what colleges are really looking for in applicants. And finally, professionals in the financial aid community will provide insight on scholarships and other ways to make college more affordable.
The hosting institution, White Mountains Community College, has a strong presence throughout the North Country, encouraging students to pursue higher education. Many of these students will immerse in a college atmosphere for the first time.
Opening remarks will be provided by college president Katherine Eneguess. The keynote address will be made by a 1989 Gorham High School graduate. His story is that of a first generation college student who earned a public relations position at the New England Sports Network (NESN) in Boston. Gary Roy comes back to the region to tell his story of success.
Why bring the convention to Berlin?
According to the 2000 Census, 33,019 individuals 25 years and older reside in Coos County (the largest region in the North Country and site for our convention). 9,770 of those are high school graduates or equivalent, but only 5,487 of them have some college or an associate’s degree (23.4%).
Furthermore, only 1,897 Coos County residents have earned a bachelor’s degree (8.1%) and just 902 students have earned a master’s, professional or doctorate degree (3.8%). Comparatively across New Hampshire, 18.7% hold bachelor degrees and 10% hold a master’s degree or higher. Additionally, in Coos County fewer than four out of ten male high school graduates go on to college.
The convention is sponsored by the New Hampshire College & University Council and Campus Compact for New Hampshire. Funding is provided by The Jane’s Trust Foundation with sponsorship from Citizens Bank.

Free workshop on volunteer risk management planned

SHELBURNE— The North Country Health Consortium Prevention Coalition and Juvenile Justice Project is offering a free luncheon and workshop on “Volunteer Risk Management” Monday, Nov. 16 from 12 to 2:30 p.m. at the Town and Country Motor Inn in Shelburne. There will be a very brief meeting of the Juvenile Justice Project during lunch followed by the 2 hour workshop. All who are interested in the topic are welcome to attend, however registrations are required.
The workshop is for any community business or not-for-profit organization that includes volunteers in its service delivery. The Presenter, Larry Barker, is a Youth Development Specialist in Coos County with UNH Cooperative Extension. Larry has extensive knowledge working with volunteers in the 4-H program and has been a consultant and presenter on volunteer risk management for many years.
Participants will learn about the key areas of volunteer risk management and the specific legal duties associated with managing volunteers. Mr. Barker will also discuss the importance of developing policies and procedures and attendees will have an opportunity to explore why volunteer management policies are important for their organization.
The workshop is supported by a grant from the Louise and Neil Tillotson Fund and the NH Charitable Foundation to North Country Health Consortium in order to assist organizations and individuals who utilize volunteers. The funding also covers information on the recruitment, retention and celebration of volunteers and creation of a volunteer mentoring handbook.
The North Country Prevention Coalition and Juvenile Justice Project are initiatives of North Country Health Consortium. The Consortium is a regional network of providers and includes Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital, Weeks Medical Center, Androscoggin Valley Hospital, Littleton Regional Hospital and Cottage Hospital, Coos County Family Health, Ammonoosuc Community Health Services, Tri County Community Action, Northern Human Services, North Country Home Health and Hospice, Indian Stream Health Center, Grafton County Nursing Home, Mid-State Health Center, and Morrison Nursing Home.
For more information on the North Country Prevention Coalition contact vherres@nchcnh.org.
To register for the workshop call Kate McCosham, Administrative Coordinator, at 837-2519 ext. 227 or email her at kmccosham@nchcnh.org.

Berlin Public Schools issues H1N1 update

BERLIN — For several weeks, New Hampshire has been among the states where the Centers for Disease Control is reporting widespread influenza-like illness. In addition, the NH Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is tracking school absences around the state. We know that absences due to flu-like symptoms are increasing and that health care providers’ offices are becoming much busier. In short, it is clear that the flu is in our communities, that it will spread, and that more people will probably be affected before it peaks. Most cases of flu-like illnesses are now due to the H1N1 virus. We don’t know whether the usual, “seasonal” flu will arrive later in the fall/winter.
Berlin school administrators and nurses continue to be in close touch with the NH DHHS regarding appropriate policies regarding prevention and management of illness in our schools. Public health officials continue to stress the importance of personal hygiene, including frequent hand-washing, coughing into your sleeve, not sharing food or eating utensils, etc.
Berlin Public Schools’ absentee levels are still within normal, consistent range of 3 to 4 percent, K-12. All Berlin school nurses, administrators, health educators, and classroom teachers are promoting personal hygiene tips and parent communications. Posters are visible in the schools on coughing and hand washing etiquette. Androscoggin Valley Hospital has donated hand sanitizer dispensers for common areas and classrooms in the high grades.
There are currently no routine recommendations to close schools in NH because of illness or to keep healthy children home from school. However, it is important for children and staff who are sick to stay from school, as well as from special events such as birthday parties, family events and other public gatherings. Children should stay home unless seeking medical care until they have no fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine. If any family members who are pregnant, have asthma or any other underlying health condition become sick with flu-like symptoms, they are advised to contact a health care provider at the onset of these symptoms.
Sick students will not be penalized for staying home. We do ask that parents contact their children’s school to let us know that they are out because of illness and to report whether they have flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, body aches, sometimes vomiting and diarrhea).
Unfortunately, vaccine supplies all over the state are limited due to manufacturing delays. Vaccine availability in NH changes on a daily basis. Berlin will hold a vaccine clinic on Thursday, November 5, 4 p.m.- 7 p.m., for children ages 10-18 at Coos County Family Health Services, Pleasant Street, Berlin. This clinic is a first come-first serve basis, no appointments needed. Children who are not patients of CCFHS, will need to register as a patient at the clinic for the purpose of receiving a vaccine.
For more information: The NH DHHS has set up a special flu “hot-line” –just call 2-1-1 (8:00 a.m.-5 p.m.) to talk to someone. There is also reliable information on the CDC and NH DHHS websites:
www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu and http://www.dhhs.state.nh.us/DHHS/DHHS SITE/swineflu.htm. Please contact your family health care provider or school nurse if you have specific questions about your own children.

Calling all artists

NORTH COUNTRY— The Arts Alliance invites submissions from member artists for a series of cards that it is planning to produce this winter. The first series will reflect individual artists' interpretation of the “Seasons of the North Country.” Artwork can include drawings, paintings, photographs, fabric art, sculpture, etc.
"We hope that artists will ask themselves what the seasons mean to them, and we are very excited to see how they interpret that vision in their art," said Eileen Alexander, assistant director of the Arts Alliance.
Arts Alliance membership is open to anyone who is interested in supporting the arts, culture and heritage of the North Country. The Arts Alliance is a regional organization serving communities from Plymouth to Pittsburg by presenting programs in partnership with schools and community organizations; by producing print and on-line cultural guides; and by providing assistance and opportunities to artists, schools, organizations and arts supporters throughout the region. Information on joining the Arts Alliance is available at www.aannh.org.
Images should be high resolution and submitted as separate jpg or tif files. Please submit your images by November 30 to eileen@aannh.org; please include "calling all artists" in the subject line. Need more information? Contact Eileen at 837-2275 or send an email to eileen@aannh.org.

GHS food drive a success

— On Saturday, October 31, approximately 25 Humanitarian Group students from Gorham High School collected canned goods in their 4th Annual Trick or Can. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Halloween, the students went around and collected canned goods instead of candy from the communities of Gorham, Randolph, and Shelburne and dropped it off at the school. On Monday, November 2, the students filled two and half pick-up-trucks with the help of some members from Tri-County Cap. The food was brought to the Tri-County Cap food panty to be sorted and later distributed.
The Humanitarian Group's mission is to change the world. They have been trying to do this since their founding in 2005. The Humanitarian Group has also been involved in many other numerous activities such as Pennies for Peace, Homelessness Awareness Night, Green Week, Rock the Mic for Human Rights night, and the Dangwa Initiative.
This is the fourth year of Trick or Can and the group thanked all those who contributed as well as the chaperones and parents who helped collect the food. Such an event would not be possible without the kind and generous giving of the community, said group members.

Men’s Breakfast Group highlights Ecumenical Food Pantry

GORHAM— The Ecumenical Food Pantry has been in existence for a number of years helping those in need. There are stories that can be told from both sides of the counter. Not just by those who benefit from the food pantry, but by the ones who volunteer to help. Whether they are serving, donating goods, time or money, they help make our food pantry what it is. Judy Rheume, director of the food pantry will be the guest speaker at the Men’s Breakfast Group, Friday, Nov. 13, at the Gorham Congregational/ UCC. Her topic will be the “Hands and Hearts at Work for All” at the Ecumenical Food Pantry.
Breakfast is served at 7 a.m. and the program begins at 7:30 a.m. A free will donation will be taken to benefit the Ecumenical Food Pantry in Berlin. All men are welcome to attend. Come for a cup of coffee, breakfast, or just the presentation. For more information call 466-3496.

Plans for Nov. 7, Energy Expo and Wellness Fair firming up

COLEBROOK— Plans for the 09 Expo in Colebrook are firming up with the confirmation of over 25 energy, health, and natural food-related exhibits, along with 9 hourly seminars and the Kiwanis food booth. Outside displays include a full sized Sky Stream windmill from North Country Plumbing and Heating, and a Veggie oil fueled car converted by Smart Energy of New England. Door prizes from exhibitors and sponsors will be announced on the hour (sign up at each vendor table) from 1 to 4 p.m. Energy-saving ideas will be among the many displays. Product and food samples, and giveaways will be available at exhibitor booths. Free blood pressure checks and blood sugar screenings for those at-risk for diabetes will be available at the health center and hospital booths.
Hourly seminars start promptly at 9 a.m. with two seminars: a Fire Safety seminar from the Colebrook Fire Department, and “Food Supplements: what you should take, what you should not”, with Dr Bob Soucy. At 10 a.m., Haze Smith will present “Building Science: Creating an Energy Efficient Home". Whether a home is 100 years old or one year old, modern building science explains common failures and successes in our homes. The 11: a.m. seminar will focus on the Colebrook District Heating Project, its feasibility, its progress, the process and questions you might have. A panel will be available to answer questions. At 12 p.m., two seminars will be offered. The Alternative Energy seminar "Solar and Wind Energy: What Works Where?" will be presented by Chris Gueymard of Solar Consulting Services and David Belanger of Smart Energy. And for those interested in health, a very informative seminar will be given by Martel Wellness on Bone Health. At 1: p.m., Haze Smith will do an excellent presentation answering the query "What Is AN Energy Audit", while Dr Peter Moran proposes a Self-Reliant Community. At 2 p.m., Kevin McKinnon and April Hyde will present an exciting presentation on how Colebrook is saving money using SolarBees for its wastewater treatment, selling electricity from the landfill methane production, and how much they save with their recycling plans.
Attendees are invited to donate an item or money to the local Food Pantry upon entrance to the Expo. Key Club members will greet attendees at the door, hand out a program with Expo map, and will accept donations for the Food Pantry.

Red Cross blood drive

— Hope. A simple word yet it means so much to someone in need. And donating blood is a simple act that helps save lives.
During this holiday season hundreds of people in area hospitals need your help. Premature babies, cancer patients, accident victims and others rely on the gift that you can give – the gift of blood. Amid these happy times, please take a moment to think of the people who may not be so lucky. By giving blood, you’ll be giving hope to someone in need.
A Red Cross blood drive will be held on Friday, December 11, at the White Mountains Community College Nursing Rooms 143 and 145 from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. All blood types are needed.
Give hope to someone this holiday season by donating blood. For more information, call the Red Cross Blood Services at 1-800-843-3500 or log on at www.newenglandblood.org.

Financing forum on energy set for Monday, November 9, in Berlin

BERLIN — An informational forum on energy efficiency and renewable energy financing opportunities in New Hampshire will be held at White Mountains Community College in Berlin from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. The session is being hosted by the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, the Northern Forest Center, and White Mountains Community College.
“So many North Country communities are working hard to reduce their energy costs or find ways to shift to renewable energy sources,” said Joe Short, program director at the Northern Forest Center. “We wanted to provide the opportunity for community leaders to hear first-hand about some new and important energy financing opportunities in New Hampshire.”
Invited panelists include: Jack Ruderman, Director of Sustainable Energy, Public Utilities Commission; Richard Ober, Chair, NH Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EESE) Board; Joanne Morin, Director, NH Office of Energy and Planning; Chris Recchia, Executive Director, Biomass Energy Resource Center; and Meredith Hatfield, Consumer Advocate, Public Utilities Commission.
The panelists will discuss emerging funding opportunities through the federal stimulus package (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or ARRA) and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Fund. In addition, there will be an update on existing funding programs through the Office of Energy and Planning and the Public Utilities Commission.
According to Racheal Stuart, senior program director for the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund, “The North Country will see increasing needs and opportunities related to renewable energy in the next few years. This is a great opportunity for face-to-face conversations about how our local communities can take advantage of these resources.”

Miss Berlin-Gorham contest is Nov. 7

BERLIN-GORHAM— Each of the five contestants competing to become Miss Berlin-Gorham on Saturday, November 7, will share more than $2,500 in scholarships available at this year’s competition. The Fourth Miss Berlin-Gorham Scholarship Program will begin at 7:00 pm at the Gorham Middle/High School in Gorham. The program is a local preliminary into next April 29, 30 and May 1st Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program. The public is invited to attend the event and to enjoy the evening’s entertainment. Miss NH 2009, Lindsey Graham, will also be performing. Tickets are $10 each, $8 for senior citizens and students and are available at the door.
Miss Berlin-Gorham 2009 will be awarded at least $2,000 from the fund, the first runner up will win $250, and the second runner up will win $150. For the first time ever, a Miss Berlin-Gorham’s Outstanding Teen competition will be held in conjunction with the Miss Berlin-Gorham competition. The winner of the Outstanding Teen title will win $75, and the first runner up will win $25.
The Miss B-G contestants are Allison Blais, 20, a Criminal Justice major at Plymouth State University, the daughter of Michael and Sharon Blais of Pittsfield.
Breally Bunch, 19, a Political Science Major at the University of New Hampshire, the daughter of Terry and Kelly Bunch of Shelburne.
Allie Piazza, 22, employed, the daughter of Michael and Debra Piazza of Campton.
Naomi Roberts, 19, employed, the daughter of Robert and Wanda Roberts of Berlin.
Stefanie Webb, 21, a Criminal Justice Major at Plymouth State University, the daughter
of Joseph and Josephine Webb of Plymouth.
The Miss B-G’s Outstanding Teen contestants are Mallory Coulombe, 17, a Junior at Gorham High School, the daughter of Ronald and Lorraine Coulombe of Gorham; Angelica Eastman, 14, a Freshman at Berlin High School, the daughter of Jessica and David Berwick of Berlin; Eileen Kelley, 14, a Freshman at Gorham High School, the daughter of Mark and Kathleen Kelley of Randolph; Tess Letarte, 16, a Sophomore at Berlin High School, the daughter of Paul and Lucy Letarte of Berlin and Linda Montminy, 16, a Junior at Gorham High School, the daughter of Paul and Lisa Montminy of Gorham.

Assistance Canine Training Services (ACTS) to celebrate first graduation for two assistance dog teams

— Assistance Canine Training Services (ACTS) based in Center Tuftonboro will celebrate the graduation of two Assistance Dog Teams on Sunday, November 8, at 2 p.m. Graduating teams will include Lisa Carter of Berlin, and veteran, Mark Lawton of Tamworth. Carter’s new canine partner is Service Dog Orion bred, raised, and trained by Wendi Shaw of Conway. Lawton’s new canine partner is Home Helper Dog Luna who was raised and trained in Center Conway by Robin Crocker. These two dogs are the first dogs to graduate from the two year old ACTS program, that currently has 11 puppies in training, working toward being placed as assistance dogs.
Lawton is a combat veteran from the Iraq War. Mark’s legacy from his service to this country includes back injuries, hearing loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PSTD). Mark is on disability and struggles daily with these issues.
Luna is a small golden retriever that came into the training program as an eight week old puppy. As Luna’s training progressed it became more and more obvious that Luna was a wonderful puppy, but was not fully comfortable with her future role as a working dog out in the big world. Luna was nervous about other dogs and preferred being home playing ball and practicing her newly learned skills. Executive Director Dorothy Hyde-Williams made the decision that Luna would not be a service dog. Decisions that involve placing dogs out in public need to be very carefully considered. Service dog work can be stressful and trainers need to be confident the dogs are ready for public access.
Luna was on the road to finding a home as a pet dog, when Mark met up with a group of trainers and their dogs outside of the local Wal-Mart. Mark talked about his disability and about how he really wasn’t sure he needed a service dog, but wondered about taking an older dog that had not been able to complete the program. He was looking for a dog that could simply be a companion providing love and comfort. He wondered if a dog might help with his PSTD symptoms. In the end he would receive that and much more.
The trainers at ACTS immediately decided to introduce Luna to Mark and the two seemed to be a perfect match. ACTS kept Luna for another two months to train her to do specific tasks for Mark. Mark's biggest issue with his hearing loss was that he did not hear when his family members called him. Luna was taught to “find Mark”, by running to him, nudging his knee, and leading him back to the person who called him. Luna also fetches for Mark allowing him to be more independent of family members who were constantly helping him pick things up when he could not bend over. To help with Mark’s PTSD symptoms, Luna learned to visit and cuddle on command. Luna works with Mark at home where he needs her the most. She is not a full service dog, but if you ask Mark, Luna’s job is equally important.
Carter made a connection with a therapist who knew one of ACTS' local puppy trainers. Lisa wasn’t fully aware of what an assistance dog could do for her, but she was open minded and contacted ACTS. She was introduced to black Labrador, Orion, and it was love at first sight. The connection was immediate. Not only was Orion going to be able to help her by doing specific tasks, but it was clear that Lisa was going to bond with Orion and have a new best friend. Lisa was injured in a car accident in 1996 when she was hit by a drunk driver. She is partially paralyzed on her left side. As a young woman in her 40s, Lisa values her independence and tries very hard to do what she can for herself. Her new partner, Orion, will help her with that independence by doing things for her that she could not do for herself. Orion has been trained to do a number of tasks including opening and closing doors and turning on and off lights. But for Lisa the task she needed most was fetching items that she dropped or that she could not reach. By fetching anything as small as a dime to as large as a cane, Orion gives Lisa the independence she desires more than anything else. In addition to fetching dropped articles, Orion can do many other things including, carrying things for Lisa or fetching the phone in an emergency.
These two new Assistance Dog teams will be graduating on November 8, at 2 p.m. at the All Saints Episcopal Church in Wolfeboro. This invitation only celebration will be attended by friends and families as well as volunteers and supporters of the ACTS program. ACTS is part of the Nathanial J. Williams Foundation started by Executive Director Dorothy Hyde-Williams in memory of her son who passed away in his early twenties. For more information on Assistance Dogs visit the ACTS website at www.AssistanceCanine.org.

Northern Lights Band takes Center Stage at St. Kieran Arts Center

BERLIN— Northern Lights Band takes center stage at St. Kieran Arts Center on Sunday, November 8 at 2 p.m. Performing an exciting mix of traditional bluegrass and "newgrass", with touches of jazz, blues, rock, gospel, classical, and western swing, their concerts appeal to audiences of all ages. Tickets are $12 adults and $6 for students.
Northern Lights, the Northeast's veteran string band, doesn't qualify as typical traditional bluegrass. In three decades the band has created its own tradition - a constant exploration of new musical territory without ever losing its acoustic and vocal bearings. From 1990's "Take You to the Sky," to recently-released “One Day” (Fifty-Fifty Music), the band has fused an eclectic mix of traditional roots music, rock, country, soul and gospel with the high, lonesome vocal sound and instruments of bluegrass.
Shows with Jonathan Edwards include a set together and the late Vassar Clements occasionally joined them on fiddle. They have performed at the Newport Folk Festival, Barns at Wolf Trap, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Festival sur la Route de Tullins, Strawberry Music Festival, and the American Folklife Center. They have recorded 11 albums, including “Three August Nights”, a live CD with the late legendary fiddler Vassar Clements, and three of their CDs reached the top ten of Bluegrass Unlimited’s National Bluegrass Survey.
Band members are Bill Henry (North Stonington, CT) on guitar & lead/harmony vocals (No. Stonington, CT), John Daniel (Leeds, MA) on acoustic bass & lead/harmony vocals, Mike Barnett (Longmeadow, MA) on fiddle & lead/harmony vocals, and Eric Robertson (Greensboro, NC) on mandolin and lead/harmony vocals.
England’s Country Music Round-Up states, "This is bluegrass at its very best with strong lead vocals, beautiful harmonies and virtuoso musicians." And the Nashua Telegraph says that the band is "...hot enough to peel the paint off your walls!"
This performance is sponsored by Great Glen Trails and Passumpsic Savings Bank with support by the NH State Council for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the NH American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the NH Charitable Foundation/North Country Region.
Upcoming events include Berlin Jazz & St. Kieran’s 9th Anniversary Celebration November 22 and the Nutcracker Ballet on December 5, and three Community Christmas Concerts by North Country Chorus on December 9, 11 and 13. Nutcracker Tickets are now on sale. The new Art Exhibition Celebrating the Seasons is on display Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 1:00 PM and at events until December 14th.
For more information or directions, contact the Arts Center office at 752-1028, 155 Emery Street or visit: www.stkieranarts.org to view our new video.

Gorham Historical Society receives donation

GORHAM— The Gorham Historical Society (GHS) received a pleasant surprise in recent weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Ed Cote, from New Hampton,, visited the museum before Columbus Day. While Mrs. Cote toured the former Grand Trunk Railroad depot, Ed looked at the railroad equipment with Reuben Rajala, a volunteer guide for the day.
"Ed pulled out pictures of a nicely restored Fairmont ST2 maintenance car and asked if we could use one. Needless to say, I quickly replied yes, to such a generous offer!" reported Rajala.
Mr. Cote's grandfather, Cory McAllister, was a Grand Trunk Railroad engineer and an aunt and uncle grew up in Gorham, so Ed thought that the local historical society and railroad museum would be a good home for the Fairmont.
A number of years ago, Mr. Cote bought the Fairmont in Maine, after seeing an ad in Uncle Henry. While he had the maintenance car nicely restored, he never did get a chance to try it out on the rails. There are numerous collectors of such vehicles around the world and many "speeders" are ridden on abandoned or other railroads, after clubs obtain permission from the track owners.
Jarrod Byrd, an engineer with the St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railroad, towed the Fairmont to Gorham on October 23. Betsy and Jarrod Byrd will generously store it over the winter. Jarrod has further offered, with help from fellow railroad staff and volunteers, to locate and install some additional ballast, ties and rail in front of the museum's steam engine next spring. This will provide a proper and secure place for the Historical Society to prominently display the Fairmont.
"The GHS Board and members are excited by such a wonderful addition to our diverse collection of railroad equipment!" said Rajala. "We also look forward to researching the history of the Fairmont and to getting the car on display next spring."
The GHS will soon be receiving historical information on Mr. McAllister and Mr. Cote's relatives from Gorham. Numerous residents and visitors continue to donate photos, articles, negatives, railroad equipment, books and other artifacts each year.
Fairmonts, made in Minnesota and powered by a small gasoline engine, were the most common of many small railroad cars used to shuttle inspection and repair crews, supplies and tools along the rails. Previously, crews used small hand pumped velocipedes. Pickup trucks, with special wheel assemblies that can be lowered for the rails and raised for road travel, are used today.
The Gorham Historical Society is a public service, non-profit organization. Dedicated members, volunteers and supporters work to preserve and share the stories of Gorham's past.

Not Without PerilTenth Anniversary Edition

— The Appalachian Mountain Club Books has announced the release of the tenth anniversary edition of the acclaimed adventure narrative "Not Without Peril: 150 Years of Misadventure on the Presidential Range of New Hampshire". Among the most beautiful and deadly mountains in the world, Mount Washington has challenged adventurers for centuries with its severe weather. From the days when gentlefolk ascended in hoop skirts and wool suits to today’s high-tech assaults on wintry summits, this book offers seventeen extensive and intimate profiles of people who found trouble on New Hampshire’s Presidential Range, from the nineteenth century through the present day.
Recognized by the Boston Globe as one of the 100 Essential New England Books, the first edition of "Not Without Peril" garnered commendation from the Banff Mountain book festival for its gripping tales of exploration and tragedy.
New to the tenth anniversary edition is a foreword from Mohamed Ellozy, former accidents editor of the mountaineering journal "Appalachia Afterword" from author Nicholas Howe, offering a personal account of an evening spent at the Mount Washington Observatory while 160-mile-per-hour winds raged outside; an updated chronology of deaths on Mount Washington; new historical photos and praise for the first edition of "Not Without Peril".
Nicholas Howe has been a journalist since 1977. His widely-published work focuses on outdoor recreation and history. He lives in Jackson and is an avid hiker of the White Mountains.
AMC Books are available wherever books are sold, and are distributed by The Globe Pequot Press, Inc., Guilford, Conn., 06437. Booksellers please call 888-249-7586. The general public may order directly from the AMC at www.outdoors.org/amcstore or by calling 800-262-4455.

Wind That Shakes The Barley coming to Colebrook

COLEBROOK— The North Country will be treated to a great night of Celtic music on Friday, Nov. 20, when the Vermont-based group Wind That Shakes The Barley comes to town.
The concert, sponsored by the Great North Woods Committee for the Arts, will see the band perform at 7 p.m. at the Colebrook Country Club. “We are pleased to have this opportunity to bring a Celtic band of this caliber to town,” said Charlie Jordan, president of the GNWCA. “They put on a lively performance of high-energy music and lilting airs that make for a memorable evening.”
Drawing from the Celtic lands of Ireland, Scotland, Brittany to Cape Bretton, Wind That Shakes The Barley serves up rolling rhythms, hypnotic arrangements and stirring vocals. Band members are featured on vocals and a blend of instruments that include fiddle, wooden flute, whistles, pipes, guitar, bozouki, cittern and bodhran. They have been among the headliners at the highly acclaimed New World Festival and have built up a regional following through their annual appearance at the Northwoods Stewardship Center in East Charleston, Vt.
For the Colebrook concert, group leader Bob DeMarco promises to dip into some of their best-known pieces, many drawn from their two most recent CDs, “Lough Rask” (2008) and “Wind in the Sails” (2002). Joining DeMarco in Colebrook will be Rachel Clark, whose flute and whistle renditions help define the Winds’ mesmerizing sound, and the band’s stirring piper, Steve Brittain, who can be counted on to share a fine story of yore. Filling in for the fourth regular band member Bob Smith during the Colebrook appearance will be John Drury, a veteran of the Quebecois and New England folk scenes who plays cittern and guitar.
Folk Night magazine said, “Wind That Shakes the Barley will heat up any cold night. This Celtic production sizzles—great on CD and even greater in person.”
Tickets for the concert are $15 each, available on a first come, first served basis at Fiddleheads on Main Street in Colebrook and on the night of the concert at the Colebrook Country Club.
Funds raised by the Wind That Shakes the Barley concert help the GNWCA continue its ongoing mission of bringing the arts to the Great North Woods. For more information on the GNWCA, as well as a schedule of upcoming concerts, contact Linda Lipkin at 538-6852 or Charlie Jordan at 246-8998.

Fish and Game biennial public hearing in Lancaster

CONCORD— The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department will hold two biennial hearings in November, giving the general public an opportunity to offer input on any aspect of Department operations. The two sessions will be held:
* Tuesday, November 17, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. at Fish and Game headquarters, 11 Hazen Drive, in Concord, N.H.; and
* Wednesday, November 18, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. at Fish and Game’s Region 1 Office on Route 3 (629B Main Street) in Lancaster, N.H.
“We welcome hunters, anglers and others who care about wildlife in New Hampshire to attend one of these biennial hearings and share your ideas about how we can serve you better,” said Glenn Normandeau, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.
Biennial hearings are held in odd-numbered years to provide the public with an opportunity to comment on and suggest changes to fishing and hunting rules, wildlife management strategies and other Fish and Game functions. Members of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Commission, Executive Director Normandeau and other Fish and Game staff will be present at the hearings to answer questions.
Those who are unable to attend the hearings may send written comments or suggestions by November 30: email to comments@wildlife.nh.gov (put “biennial hearings” as the subject line); or write to: Executive Director, N.H. Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301; or fax (603) 271-1438.

Opening day for deer season looms

CONCORD— Opening day for New Hampshire’s regular firearms deer season takes place on November 11, a date anticipated with great enthusiasm by the state’s estimated 60,000 deer hunters. The season runs through December 6 in much of the state, except in Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) A in northern New Hampshire, where it closes November 29.
The state’s popular muzzleloader deer season gets underway on Saturday, October 31 (except in WMU A, where it begins on November 2), and runs through November 10.
“For many New Englanders, the firearms deer season is a traditional opportunity to get together with family and friends, enjoy our bountiful resources and put meat in the freezer before winter,” said Kent Gustafson, the deer biologist for the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.
New Hampshire’s deer herd came through last winter in good shape, according to Gustafson. The state’s archery deer kill through October 18, 2009, totaled 1,561, somewhat below last year’s total at that point in the season, but higher than similar totals experienced from 2001 to 2005, according to preliminary reports. For a comparison by county (where deer were registered), visit http://www.huntnh.com/Hunting/deer_hunt_take_October.htm.
Deer hunters can find Wildlife Management Unit and season-specific either-sex day regulations in the 2009-2010 New Hampshire Hunting and Trapping Digest, available online at http://www.huntnh.com and from Fish and Game license agents. In WMU A, an antler point restriction and changes in season length are again in place as part of an effort to improve the age structure of the northern deer herd.
Hunting licenses can be purchased online at http://www.HuntNH.com or from license agents statewide. Licenses are also sold at Fish and Game headquarters in Concord. The basic N.H. hunting license costs $22 for residents and $103 for nonresidents. Hunters under age 16 do not need a license, but must be accompanied by a properly licensed adult at least 18 years of age.
Special permits remain available for taking one additional antlerless deer in Wildlife Management Unit M during the archery, muzzleloader or firearms season by any legal method. Permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis for $13 each (a limit of one per licensed hunter). They can be purchased online, at Fish and Game headquarters, or by mail. Visit http://www.wildnh.com/Hunting/Special_Unit_M_permits.htm.
Successful hunters can help the less fortunate by sharing their harvest with the “Hunt for the Hungry” program at the New Hampshire Food Bank. For more information on donating game meat, call (603) 669-9725 or visit http://www.nhfoodbank.org.
Find more on deer hunting in New Hampshire at http://www.huntnh.com/Hunting/Hunt_species/hunt_deer.htm.

2009 New Hampshire moose hunt a success

CONCORD— New Hampshire’s 2009 moose season was a success. Hunters took 341 moose. With a total of 522 permits issued, this represents a statewide success rate of 65%. About 60% of the harvest was male, according to Kristine Rines, Moose Project Leader for the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. The nine-day moose hunt ended on Sunday, October 25. In 2008, hunters did about the same, taking 333 moose, for a statewide success rate of 65%.
While the statewide success rate was identical to last year’s, the regional success rates differed. This year, the Connecticut Lakes Region saw a success rate of 84%, up from 80% in 2008. The North Region saw 91% success this year, up from 83% last year. The White Mountain Region’s success rate was identical to last year, at 47%. Success in the Central Region declined slightly, to 62% this year, from 68% in 2008. The Southwest Region maintained a 45% success rate, exactly the same as last year. The Southeast Region increased its success rate to 47%, up from 38% in 2008.
Successful hunters reported a big shift in moose habitat use during the season, according to Rines. During the first two days, moose were seen in the North Country at low elevations, but on the third day, hunters reported having a harder time finding them. Persistent hunters who were willing to hunt higher elevations found moose in clear-cuts there.
A ten-year comparison of regional success rates for the N.H. moose hunt is available at http://www.huntnh.com/Hunting/Moose_hunt/moose_hunt_take.htm.
Find out more about moose hunting in New Hampshire, including a link to a gallery of photos from this year’s and past hunts, at http://www.huntnh.com/Hunting/Hunt_species/hunt_moose.htm.
More than 14,500 people entered the 2009 moose hunt lottery, held last spring, for a chance to participate in the New Hampshire moose hunt. Think next year might be your lucky year? Lottery applications for the 2010 moose hunt will be available on the Fish and Game website and from license agents starting in January through May 28, 2010.

Free public workshops at Arts in Education Conference

BRETTON WOODS— Three free public presentations are being offered on Sunday, November 1, as part of the statewide Arts in Education Partnership Conference being held this week at the Highland Center in Crawford Notch, where the theme is “Maps and Journeys.” Presenting artists are a potter, a Taiko drummer, and a photographer.
At 10 a.m., Alexandra de Steiguer, photographer and New Hampshire Artist Fellow, will offer a slide-show presentation of her images of Star Island, an island off the New Hampshire coast where she has spent the last 12 years as its winter caretaker. Her photos capture the stark beauty and wild weather of the island in winter. Alex has exhibited throughout New England, and received State Arts Council fellowships in 2002 and 2007. To view her images, go to www.alexdesteiguer.com.
Stuart Paton, the Founder and Artistic Director of the Burlington Taiko Group, will demonstrate his style of drumming that “combines movement, rhythm, voice, and the efficient and graceful movement of chi, or ‘energy,’ from the player to the drum.” Stuart apprenticed with Grandmaster Seiichi Tanaka, the founder of the first taiko group in North America, and went on to found the Burlington Taiko Group in 1986. His presentation begins at 10:30 a.m. To learn more, go to www.burlingtontaiko.org
At 11, join potter, glazer and New Hampshire Artist Fellow Hideaki Miyamura, for a pottery demonstration, followed by a question and answer session. Hideaki specializes in high-fire porcelain clay and is currently developing a glaze he calls “Yohen Crystal.” (Yohen means “stars glistening in a night sky.”) Hideaki was born in Japan, but now makes his home in New Hampshire, where he is a juried member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen. His work can be found in collections all over the world. Go to www.miyamurastudio.com for more information.
The Arts in Education Conference brings together educators, arts specialists, teaching artists, youth leaders, parents and community members for inspiration, networks, resources, new skills and support to improve the quality and scope of arts education for all of New Hampshire’s children and students.
The Arts in Education Conference is presented by the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts in partnership with the Arts Alliance of Northern New Hampshire. For additional information on the two-day conference on Oct. 30 and 31, go to www.nh.gov/nharts or www.aannh.org. For information on the free Sunday presentations contact Frumie Selchen, Executive Director of the Arts Alliance of Northern NH at 323-7302.

PSU hosts Prof. Erick Eschker of Humboldt State University to discuss the Humboldt Economic Index

PLYMOUTH — On Friday, November 6, the Center for Rural Partnerships will welcome Professor Erick Eschker of Humboldt State University to discuss the Humboldt Economic Index, a cooperative model for tracking the economy of rural regions. This index, which addresses a rural region in Northern California, is the inspiration for the North Country Economic Index (NCEI), created by PSU professors Dan Lee and Vedran Lelas. The NCEI will provide more precise economic information about the Granite State’s northern most counties to interested businesses, families, charities and lawmakers, said Thad Guldbrandsen, executive director of the PSU based Center for Rural Partnerships.
"If a business is thinking about whether or not to make an investment or expand in a region, that's a risky enterprise," said Guldbrandsen. "This data will provide new reliable information that will enable businesses to have more confidence in the decisions they make."
The information also will be useful for charitable organizations trying to assess the impact of their programs, government agencies and policymakers, and individuals deciding whether to buy a home or change careers, Guldbrandsen said.
Dr. Escker’s presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Heritage Commons. In addition, those interested may attend an informal discussion beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Prospect Dining Hall (lunch will be available for purchase). For more information, contact Ben Amsden, or call 535-3274.

Stay Well: Prevent a Stroke

Janet Hope Sherman, MD, MA

— Brain attack, more formally called stroke, is the third leading cause of death in the United States and causes more serious disabilities than any other disease. Strokes are more common after age 65 and the risk of stroke more than doubles with every decade after age 55. Stroke usually results from less blood flow to the brain because of a blockage of a vessel. Less often, stroke is from bleeding in the brain.
Knowing the warning signs of stroke (listed at the end of this article) allows us to help ourselves and others to receive prompt medical attention for stroke. Stroke damages the brain and can affect the entire body.
There are medications that may be given to patients that arrive promptly at the hospital, within a few hours of symptom onset, to lessen or reverse the effects of stroke.
When a patient with possible stroke arrives at the hospital, a picture of the brain is taken with CT or MRI. MRI involves no radiation. A strong magnet and radio waves create pictures that allow the doctor to detect the stroke and to see a blockage that may increase stroke risk. A newer type of MRI, DWI (Diffusion Weighted MRI) measures water’s motion, showing a stroke earlier than it may be diagnosed with any other type of picture. An MRI “map” helps doctors to confirm the new stroke. MRI lets doctors see new strokes within minutes of symptoms and allows doctors to determine new strokes from old strokes.
Arteries in the neck provide blood flow to the brain. . A special type of MRI, called an MR angiogram (MRA), is a picture of the blood vessels that helps doctors to decide the best treatment for each patient to reduce future risk of stroke. The exam is non-invasive, uses no radiation and is safe, even for patients with kidney problems as it may be performed without contrast (sometimes called dye).
It is best to prevent strokes. Certain conditions are known to increase stroke risk. If you or someone you know develops symptoms of possible stroke, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Do not wait to see if the symptoms improve. Even if they do improve, such symptoms serve as a critical warning sign. It is not safe to wait. Every minute counts, when the signs of stroke present. Call 911 for immediate medical assistance. Prompt medical help may save a life.
Please cut out this list and put it on your refrigerator.
Stroke Symptoms: Call 911
Sudden weakness, numbness or tingling of face, arm, or leg, usually on one side
Sudden confusion, clumsiness, trouble speaking or trouble understanding others
Sudden partial or complete loss of sight in one or both eyes, or double vision
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or decreased coordination
Difficulty swallowing, reading or writing
Lack of control of bowels or bladder
Inability to recognize others
Sudden severe headache
Reduce stroke risk with your health care provider’s guidance.
High blood pressure-control it as well as possible.
Smoking-if you smoke, seek help to quit
Diabetes-seek help to manage well
Weight-maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, if possible
Cholesterol – lower and maintain at safe levels through diet, exercise and medication (if indicated)
Janet Hope Sherman, MD, MA earned her Medical Doctorate from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, MA from which she was recognized with numerous Faculty Commendations. She has extensive clinical and teaching experience and has held various appointments, including at Harvard Medical School, where she completed her Diagnostic Radiology Residency as well as her Fellowship in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. AVH is proud to have her join our Imaging Services team.

Over 245 students from the North Country to attend college access convention