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Marsupial Madness at Walpole Library
MARSUPIAL MADNESS AT THE WALPOLE LIBRARY
Do you know your Koalas from your Quolls, your Echidnas from your Emus, your Tasmanian Devils from your Thorny Devils? Take a whirlwind tour of Australia’s exciting animals and varied ecosystems with staff from the Nature Museum at Grafton at the Walpole Town Library. This program will be held at the Library on Thursday, July 10 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. The Walpole Town Library is located at 48 Main Street in Walpole.
Explore Australia’s wildlife from the arid Outback to the steamy rainforest through slides and stories. Registration is required and an adult must accompany children to this program. We offer this program as part of a statewide project sponsored by the Children’s Librarians of New Hampshire to encourage year-round reading by children. For more information or to register, contact the library at (603) 756-9806.
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Today's Old Home Days Schedule...and Maeve and Pete!!
Ed. Note: Here's today's schedule. See below for Maeve and Pete! CCB
Sunday, June 29
7 am – 11 am Breakfast to benefit Walpole Historical Society – Tent on Historical Society Lawn $$
9 am – 8 pm Walpole Community Pool - Free to all
8:00 am St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Walpole
9:30 am St. Peter’s Catholic Church, North Walpole
10:00 am First Congregational Church, Walpole
10:00 am St. John’s Episcopal Church, Walpole
10:30 am Walpole Unitarian Church, Walpole
2 pm – 5 pm – Tea & Refreshments at Hastings House next to Unitarian Church $$
2 pm – 4 pm - Jazz concert in memory of Lou Andreoli at Walpole Unitarian Church, Music by Samirah Evans, accompanied by Jason Ennis, Armen Donelian, George Kaye
3 pm till sold out - Chicken Barbecue & a la carte supper items - First Congregational Church $$
5:30 pm - Band Concert with Bob Cunniff Orchestra – sponsored by the Boy Scouts of Walpole. Donation basket will be passed.
*** Presentation of parade awards and other drawings at intermission. ***
7:30 pm – Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You - Doors open at 7 pm – Walpole Town Hall $$
Maeve Perron, daughter of Laurel and Jason Perron and granddaughter of Dutchie and Bill, presents her pet snake, Pete, in the longest tail class at Saturday's Old Home Days Pet Show and Competition organized by Myra Mansouri. Chuck Bingaman photo.
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Saturday's Old Home Days Schedule
Ed. Note: Here is the schedule for Saturday's Old Home Days celebration. Congratulations to Co-Chairs Joan DeVault and Cindy Westover, pictured below, for all the work they've done, along with many others in town, to pull it all off!! CCB
Saturday, June 28
7 am – 9 am Academy Breakfast for all who attended the Academy and spouses. Prizes for youngest, oldest, longest distance traveled – Tent on Historical Society Lawn
8:30 am 5K Race and Children’s Race (12 and under) Start/Finish at Walpole Town Hall - Prizes - Benefit of Fall Mountain running & skiing teams $$
8:30 am Power Walk with Paula Burdick - Prizes -Walpole Town Hall $$
9 am Pies for Grange Pie-Baking Contest to Town Hall for judging
9 am – 8 pm Walpole Community Pool - Free to all
9 am – 4 pm Common displays for Walpole non-profits…educational, fundraising and food
Walpole Historical Society Information
Walpole Recycling Action Program Information
Walpole Community Grange Pie Baking Contest\Pie & Coffee
Walpole Old Home Day Committee Water, Souvenirs, Totes & Info., Hamburgers, Fried dough
Walpole Village School Chicken-on-stick, Iced tea, Fruit cup
Walpole Parent Teacher Group Root Beer Floats
Walpole Conservation Committee Educational
Gary Speed Preserved Animal Display
Art Co-op Artisan Displays
Child Family Services Educational
Boy Scout Troop 299 Hot Dogs, Soda, Water
Pinnacleview 4-H Club Lemonade, Icees & Petting Zoo
Hubbard Farms Educational\Baby Chicks
Organic Valley Farms Educational\Give-a-ways
Hooper Institute Information
Life Fellowship Foursquare Church Information & Desserts
Congregational Church Barbecue Tickets
Charles Phillips Play BUX Game
Monadnock Conservancy Information
Walpole Fire & EMS Ladies Aux. Popcorn, Cotton Candy,
Quilt Raffle
Walpole Fire Department Fire Safety Trailer
Hooper Hill Hoppers Raffle Tickets
The Pink Sox—Tiffany, Patty, Bake Sale, T-shirts & Face Painting
& Chris Neal
Kirsty Patch—David’s House Food--Subs, Sausage & Meatballs
TriVillage Energy Solar Cooking
Personal Ponies Info. on Companion Ponies
10 am - PARADE - Starts at Walpole School - First – third prizes for:
most original, funniest, best theme, best junior entry, best
neighborhood entry
11 am – 4 pm - Antique Vehicle Show - Historical Society lawn - Vote for your favorite car, truck and tractor!!
11 am – Grange Pie Baking Contest - Call Gwen Yardley 756-3677 to enter your pie! Prizes to be awarded. Walpole Town Hall
11 am – 12:30 pm Basketball 3-point Shootout – Savings Bank lot
11:30 am – Jim Collins will read about playing baseball in Walpole from his well-received book, The Last Best League - Walpole Town Library
12 noon - Pet Show – Behind Telephone Building
Children’s categories: 1. Largest pet 2. Smallest pet 3. Longest tail 4. Costume class 5. Shortest tail 6. Most unusual pet
7. Cutest pet 8. Judges choice award
Adult categories: 1. Oldest Pet 2. Costume Class 3. Owner/pet look-a-like 4. Most enthusiastic pet owner—Roxy Memorial Trophy 5. Judges choice award
12 noon – 3 pm Hayrides around town provided by R.N. Johnson’s
1 pm – 3 pm Open House at the Historical Society
1 pm – 3 pm Firefighters challenge (Age 6-12) Skating rink
1 pm Cemetery Tour provided by Walpole Players and friends. Starts in front of Walpole School
1 pm – 3 pm Children’s Woodsmen Contest - Divisions 7 years and under, 8 years – 12 years, 13 years – 18 years - Skating rink
(2person events: logroll, chunk throw, cross cut saw, surprise event
3 pm – Adult Woodsmen Contest - same events
MUSIC on the BANDSTAND during the day
The East Bay Jazz Ensemble
The “Panhandlers” Steel Band
7:30 pm Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You - Doors open 7 pm – Walpole Town Hall $$
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Walpole Summer Reading Program--Sign Up Now!
Ed. Note: The Walpolean is a tad late but Librarian Frankie Knibb assures me that YOU are not too late to get going in the Walpole Library summer reading program. See details below. CCB
DISCOVER AUSTRALIA AT THE WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY
G’day mates! Get ready to discover Australia at the Walpole Town Library Summer Reading Program, “G’day for Reading”. This annual statewide program is sponsored by the Children’s Librarians of New Hampshire. The Walpole Reading Program runs from Wednesday, June 23 through August 8.
Eager young Aussies can go down under at the library beginning on Wednesday, June 16. So sign up for the book club and special events. We have programs lined up throughout the summer where you can learn about Australia. Best of all, read your way through the Library’s great collection of books on all things Australian, their customs, creatures and coral reefs.
Kangaroos, koala bears and wombats! What’s a wombat? Find out on Thursday, July 10 at 2:00 p.m. when the Nature Museum at Grafton gives a presentation on the animals of Australia. Hear “Dreamtime” stories, celebrating the culture, customs and art of the Aborigines with Angela Klingler on Thursday, July 24 at 2:00 p.m. Enjoy the antics of REALLY BIG puppets when Martha Dana, puppeteer extraordinaire, comes on Wednesday, August 6 at 2:00 p.m. More programs will be announced later in the summer.
Sign up for a travel adventure at the North Walpole Branch Library, too! Nancy Hague will be offering four programs during the month of July on Tuesdays. She has lots of activities, games, crafts, and theatre to share with you. These programs will be offered on Tuesdays, from 9 to 11 a.m. on July 1st, 8th, 22nd, and 29th.
Registration is required for most of these special programs so come in early. An adult must accompany children to these programs. All programs are free and open to the public. For a complete schedule of events and more information about the program, please contact the library at (603) 756-9806. Discover the joy of reading!
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June 12 Selectmen's Minutes
MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JUNE 12, 2008
Selectboard Present: Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague
Mr. Sawyer called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with six people present in the audience.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $66,003.94. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the voided Accounts Payable check register for checks Nos. 037385 and 037413. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
PAYROLL: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending June 7, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $18,174.76 or net wages in the amount of $9,429.64. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,319.77. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
TAX ANTICIPATION NOTE: Mrs. Teague recommended that Teresa Kissell check with the Savings Bank of Walpole regarding a Sweep Account.
Mrs. Teague moved to pay off the TAN for $1,000,000.00 and to take the balance out of the MBIA and put it into the Town’s checking account at the Savings Bank of Walpole. The Chairman and Treasurer are authorized to sign the documents. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
BRUSH FIRES:
Mr. Aldrich moved to approve filing the State of New Hampshire, Division of Forests and Lands, Forest Fire bills for the Town of Walpole as follows: 1) North Walpole on May 27th - $612.19; 2) $236.24; 3) $263.28; 4) $135.46; and 5) $1,412.17. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
CINDY WESTOVER – OLD HOME DAYS UP-DATE: Cindy Westover distributed copies of the schedule of events for the Old Home Days activities. Last Friday evening she met with the Police Department and Road Agent about the 7:00 to 11:00 PM dance in the parking lot. The fireworks will be set-up on North Road and the Fire Department is aware of this. She would like to shut-off the road by the Common for the 5-K race because it starts and ends by the Town Hall. People will be allowed to come into the Common to set-up on Saturday but then it will be shut-off to traffic. The Parade will begin at 10:00 AM and the Police Department will have a cruiser at the beginning and the end. There is also a schedule for Sunday that includes the Sunday evening concert that begins at 7:00 PM. Mrs. Westover is in the process of obtaining an insurance rider to cover the events. The Selectboard members were invited to participate in the parade and are to be at the Walpole Elementary School by 10:00 AM. In addition to the above there are many other activities through the week-end.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – JUNE 04, 2008: Mr. Aldrich noted that on page 2 under Letters to be signed – change “Mr. Sawyer approved” to “Mr. Sawyer seconded” the motion.
Selectboard Meeting – June 12, 2008 – Page 2
Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the June 04, 2008, Selectboard meeting with the above correction. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer in favor, the motion was approved. Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present.
Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the June 04, 2008, Non-Public meeting as printed. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer in favor, the motion was approved. Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present.
DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners meeting of June 09, 2008.
ABATEMENTS:
RICHARD N. WESTNEY, JR. – LIEN FEES – MAP 027-001-006: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement in the amount of $37.12 for Richard N. Westney, Jr. The lien fees were erroneously assessed. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
PATRICK F. AUMAND – LIEN FEES – MAP 028-127-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement in the amount of $18.56 for Patrick F. Aumand. The lien fees were erroneously assessed. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
REFUND:
VINCENT MALNATI –TAX ABATEMENT- OVERPAYMENT: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund in the amount of $71.20 for Vincent Malnati. This is due to an over payment. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):
GARY FOX –PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION- CONN. RIVER TRANSIT: Mr. Fox spoke to Mrs. Teague a few months ago about the possibility of the Connecticut River Transit providing trips in the Town of Walpole to the Bellows Falls Senior Center, to Shaw’s for shopping and possibly other stops. The CRT is a non-profit service in 30 towns. Mr. Fox distributed a brochure and current schedule in Bellows Falls. Some employers pay for their service to transport their employees to the various places of business. To provide the service in Walpole would cost $2,260.00/year. The rides would be based on voluntary donations by the users; there are no age requirements. Mr. Fox will provide a questionnaire that will then be distributed at the Senior Housing center, the churches and all local stores to be filled out to provide an estimated number of users. If the response is favorable, it might be possible to begin the service by September 1st.
WARRANTS:
MARY McMAHON –TIMBER CUT- MAP 003-002-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Warrant for the Collection of Timber Cut in the amount of $1,624.00 for Mary McMahon on Whipple Hill. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
BUILDING PERMIT:
WILLIAM and KRISTEN WHITON –MAP 003-038-003: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-023 for William and Kristen Whiton to construct a 16’ x 12’ shed on the County Road. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
Selectboard Meeting – June 12, 2008 – Page 3
OLD BUSINESS:
KATHY MONAHAN: Ms. Monahan talked to the Selectboard last week about a sidewalk sale using two parking spaces in front of her store but she has now decided to still have the sidewalk sale but to put the racks out in front of her store and to do it during Old Home Days.
Mrs. Teague moved to allow Kathy Monahan to have the sidewalk sale as proposed above. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
OLD DREWSVILLE ROAD: Mr. Sawyer reported that for two years the Town’s Road Agent tried to contact the Department of Environmental Services in an effort to do the repairs on the Old Drewsville Road. Jim Terrell felt that for safety issues he could not wait any longer therefore he is going to fix up the ends so it will be safe. There was an Article for these repairs. It was agreed to have Jim Terrell detail the step-by-step things that he did so it can be sent to the DES to advise that the work is now being done by the Town for safety reasons.
NEW BUSINESS:
TOWN HALL RENTAL QUESTION: Contra Dances are held in the Town Hall on the third Saturday of every month and were scheduled through 2008 and 2009. The Fall Mountain Region High School recently wanted to book the Town Hall for their prom on the third Saturday in May 2009. The Selectboard discussed booking Town Hall functions out too far except for weddings. There was a consensus to change the policy on Town Hall rentals to state that they will only extend out dates for weddings but any other type of event can only be scheduled four months out. A letter is to be sent to the person in charge of the contra dances to reflect this change.
PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):
MARCIA GALLOWAY – CONSERVATION COMMISSION Mrs. Galloway advised that the Conservation Commission is requesting that the Selectboard make arrangements with the Department of Transportation for a temporary access off Route 12 to do a logging operation in the Fanny Mason Forest. Peter Rhoades, Forester, will mark the trees but there is no access for logging to be done.
Mrs. Teague moved for the Selectboard to approve asking the State of New Hampshire for temporary access off Route 12 for a logging operation on Map 7, Lot 6. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
NELSON CONSERVANCY: Mrs. Galloway reported that Peter Graves and Brad Fletcher did an inspection on the Nelson Conservancy off French Road. There was a utility trailer parked there but they could not find any auto parts. There is a trailer on private property but it was further back than the house on that property.
NEW BUSINESS (Continued):
DISABILITY LEAVE: The Selectboard reviewed a memo from Teresa Kissell relative to an employee that will be taking a disability leave. Mr. Sawyer read the section from the Personnel Policy in reference to disability leaves. Mrs. Teague would like to discuss the procedure used in the past with Ms. Kissell.
JEFFREY HORNE –REPRESENTING LAVERNE HORNE- MAP 012-015-000: Mrs. Mansouri noted that Jeffrey Horne did not attend this meeting as he had so indicated to discuss this property. Laverne Horne is in violation of the Zoning Permit. Mrs. Mansouri will work with Elaine Moore to send the information to the attorney tomorrow to have the court documents prepared. .
Selectboard Meeting – June 12, 2008 – Page 4
PERSONAL DAY REQUEST –JIM TERRELL- JUNE 19, 2008: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the request of Jim Terrell to take a personal day off on June 19, 2008. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
TOWN HALL HEATING/AIR CONDITION REPAIRS/AND BATHROOM REPAIR: Elaine Moore explained that Blanc and Bailey had done the renovations to the Town Hall but some work was sub-contracted to Bergeron Electric. There are condensation problems with the air conditioning system in the Selectboard office, the men’s room ceiling pipes are leaking so it is ruining the ceiling and the men’s room toilet needs to be replaced. There was a consensus to have Elaine Moore contact Bergeron Electric to come and look at the problem areas and to check to see if there might be some guarantees on the parts.
NORTH WALPOLE LIEN EXECUTION LIST: The North Walpole Lien Execution List was submitted for the Selectboard to review.
JOE GOODHUE –UPDATE ON PAY DISBURSEMENT: Joe Goodhue submitted his summer schedule. The Selectboard approved his work schedule and payment information. Mr. Sawyer recommended that a letter be sent to him to acknowledge his memo and to thank him for putting in all those hours.
MARY McMAHON –INTENT TO CUT TIMBER- MAP 003-001-000 and MAP 003-001-002: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the two Notices of Intent to Cut Timber for Mary McMahon. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
MICHAEL McCONNEL and BARBARA HAYDEN –INTENT TO CUT TIMBER- MAP 005-031-002: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Timber for Michael McConnel and Barbara Hayden. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:
RONALD ALDRICH – ABATEMENT REQUEST: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the letter to Ronald Aldrich relative to an Abatement request. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
There being no other business, Mr. Sawyer declared the meeting adjourned at 10:04 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary
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June 18 Zoning Board Minutes
Ed. Note: Thanks to Elaine Moore for these minutes of the June 18 meeting of the Zoning Board. CCB
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
MEETING OF JUNE 18, 2008
Present: Myra Mansouri, Peggy Pschirrer, Jan Galloway-Leclerc, Leo Carignan, William Webb, David Calhoun, Larry Britton, and Mary Therese Lester.
There were 14 people in the audience.
Chair Myra Mansouri called the meeting to order at 7:33 P.M.
NEW BUSINESS:
Alternate Appointment: Chair Mansouri indicated there was a full board present. She asked the Board to go out of order of the Agenda and to consider the appointment of Jan Galloway-LeClerc as an Alternate to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Larry Britton moved to appoint Jan Galloway-LeClerc as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a three-year term. Seconded by Mary Therese Lester. All in favor, so voted.
Chair Mansouri also informed the Board that Ernie Vose would attend the next meeting. At that time the Board will be asked to appoint Mr. Vose as an Alternate for one year.
Shirley Frost: Mrs. Frost had requested a meeting to place a second mobile home on a parcel she and her son own at 84 Valley Road. She needs to go before the Zoning Board and inquire about a Variance, as the property frontage is 45 feet short to allow for a subdivision to create two lots. Mrs. Frost did not attend the Zoning meeting, therefore no application was given.
Fair Point: Chair Mansouri informed the Board she had received a call from Fair Point regarding changing the Verizon sign on Westminster Street. The caller was informed to go to the Walpole website and review signage ordinance.
OLD BUSINESS:
For Frank W. Whitcomb, Mr. Richard Frazier, of One Source Properties, representing Frank W. Whitcomb, Corp., was in to request a Special Exception to develop a small excavation site on Tax Map 015-Lot 035-000, in the Rural Agriculture zoning district. Access to this site is on the Old Drewsville Road.
The application was reviewed by the Zoning Board for completeness. Larry Britton moved to accept the application as complete. Seconded by Leo Carignan. All in favor, so voted.
Mr. Richard Frazier, indicated to the Board the proposed use is similar in nature (and identical in one case) to existing uses on abutting properties and those proximate to the subject property. He indicated three Town of Walpole commercial/industrial facilities are located approximately to the proposed site. All three facilities share attributes relative to the intended use. The Town Recycle/Transfer Station, Walpole Town Highway Garage, and Walpole’s Town landfill property.
Mr. Frazier indicated the proposed excavation site involves 3.6 +/- acres. A 2.7 acre pond will be developed as a result of the activity. The proposed activity will be seasonal. Likely from May through November. Permits have been obtained from DES after conducting a comprehensive, technical review of the proposed project. The digging will be mostly in water, which will create the pond when the project is finished.
Best Management Practices will be employed, as necessary to protect water quality, and will be checked periodically.
It was noted any wetlands are at least 85 feet from the dig project with a berm and silt fence between the wetlands and the project. There is ample distance between the excavation site and dwellings to mitigate any potential nuisance impacts, health, or safety hazards. Impacts from vibration, unsanitary conditions, noxious odor, and the like will not develop from this type of operation. Explosives will not be used in this project, nor is crushing equipment to be utilized on site. Berms and existing tree buffers will also act as an effective means for keeping down any potential dust generated from within the project area. No buildings are proposed for this area.
Mr. Jeffrey James spoke regarding Impact and assessments; indicating this project would not deteriorate property values in the area. There was discussion regarding hydrogeoloic investigation, best management practices for fueling and maintenance of exaction and earth moving equipment, and stump and brush management.
Jonathan Sisson from the NH Natural Heritage Bureau informed the Board there is no recorded rare species near the project area. It was also noted this project will not affect the aquifer on the property.
After the presentation Chair Myra Mansouri opened the meeting for public comment.
Andy Collins stated he believes the project will leave the neighborhood in better condition than it is now. He also stated that removing solids and replacing with liquid would not be a detriment to the area.
Ben Davis had concerns regarding noise and dust. He also questioned whether the digging would bring area wells down. It had happened in the past with one well. Mr. Frazier stated he does not believe there is concern regarding noise, dust, and wells. They are using Best Practice Methods.
Sue Hunkler and Paul and Maureen Duquette stated they have no objection to the project, but would like to see the berm removed at the end of the project.
When all comments were taken, Chair Myra Mansouri asked the Zoning Board if they had any questions.
There was discussion regarding an application for special exception in 1998, which was approved then remanded, and a special exception approved in 2001.
The boxcars on the lot were discussed and Mr. Bill Ballou indicated they would be moved to another area on the property.
Question regarding if the special exception is granted what will happen to the material setting there now. Mr. Frazier indicated that the gravel is put in windrows to dry, then removed to a Whitcomb project site.
As there are some stored items on the property now, Peggy Pschirrer believes the berms should be left in place.
Chair Mansouri asked if there was an oil/etc. leak of some sort does EPA need to be notified. The Board was informed if a spill is greater than twenty-five gallons the EPA must be notified.
Chair Myra Mansouri closed the public hearing at 9:38 PM. With no further comments from the Board Chair Mansouri asked the Board what conditions should be in place if the Special Exception is approved.
The Board approved the following conditions:
1) Make sure the stock piling of material is in said area of the proposed site plan.
2) Erect a Stop Sign at the entrance of the project area and Old Drewsville Road with sign – Right Turn only.
3) No employee vehicles parked on the proposed project lot.
4) The Zoning Board will visit the site of the project every year with a yearly report generated as required by our ordinance. Estimate time of completion is five years.
5) Hours of operation will be from 7am to 5pm, Monday thru Friday, and from 8am to noon on Saturday.
6) A copy of the two-year report Frank W. Whitcomb Corp. submits to the state will be given to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
David Calhoun made a motion to approve the Special Exception for Frank W. Whitcomb, Corp. based on the criteria listed.
Mary Therese Lester seconded the motion. All in favor, so voted.
By-Laws: Will be discussed next month to give Board time to review the By-Laws for any changes they may wish to bring forward for discussion.
Minutes of Previous Meeting: As not everyone received the minutes of the Meeting of May 21, they will be sent to the Board members and will be reviewed at the meeting of July 16, 2008.
Chair Myra Mansouri closed the meeting at 10:13 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Elaine Moore
Secretary to the Zoning Board of Adjustment
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Trio of Old Home Days Reminders
Three, that is!
1. If you're entering a pet in Saturday's Pet Show, think carefully about the proper class to put him or her in. Chairperson Myra Mansouri has set up new classes this year, and they're found in the Walpole entry for June 5. [To jump right to it, simply click on June 5 in the calendar to the right.]
2. Strawberry shortcake at Murray's is from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Friday afternoon (contrary to at least one incorrect ad we've seen.) You'll not want to be late!
3. BBQ chicken tickets may be bought at Galloway Real Estate and Real to Reel. They are $4 each for chicken, and the side dishes will be ala carte. Serving begins at 3:00 p.m. Sunday at the Congregational Church. CCB
CCB
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Local Papers Cover Old Home Days Today
Today's Eagle Times from Claremont provides a large, two-page spread with stories, photos and extensive Old Home Days schedule today. Also, advertisements from many Walpole businesses. Check it out! And patronize the advertizers!
The Keene Sentinel also provides coverage today in a one-page spread with a truncated schedule--with a few misspellings--and local ads.
We're glad to get publicity for Old Home Days and for our local businesses. Should be a GREAT week in Walpole! Thanks to OHD Co-Chairs Cindy Westover and Joan DeVault and the dozens of people that are working hard to make it a success. Incidentally, Old Home Days T-shirts and tote bags are available at Galloway Real Estate along with complimentary program brochures. CCB
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Samirah Evans Jazz Concert June 29
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June 24 Planning Board "Working Session" Agenda
PLANNING BOARD
Walpole, NH 03608
WORK SESSION MEETINGS will be held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the Town Hall Basement office until further notice. The only item to be discussed will be the Master Plan update of the Land Use Section. The board will schedule public hearings on the draft Land Use Section at its regularly scheduled monthly meetings held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the Town Hall. Please refer to the agenda of the regular meetings for more information on the update as it progresses.
JUNE 24, 2008 Meeting:
The following are being presented by the Master Plan Update Committee:
- Review cost proposal by South West Regional Planning Commission to
incorporate the goals and objectives and vision statement into the
existing Land Use Section
- Review SWRPC’s comments regarding the goals and objectives and
vision statement (see attached, via e-mail)
- Review and discuss Town-wide Conservation Plan for adoption into
the Master Plan, please refer to previously e-mailed document
- Miscellaneous clarifications
MEETING TO BE HELD IN THE TOWN HALL BASEMENT OFFICE at 7:00PM
Cc: PB, MP, Town Offices, ZBA, WCC
Posted: Town Hall, Lobby, Burdick’s Market, www.walpoleplanningboard.org and www.thewalpolean.com
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Sidewalk Sale at Wish!
Sale into Summer with WISH CLOTHING'S
SIDEWALK SALE!
Save 30-70% OFF Selected Merchandise
June 26th-29th
Thurs-Sat 11am-6pm
Sun 12-5pm
52 Main St Walpole, NH (603) 756-3033
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Old Home Days Cemetery Tour
Historical Society/Walpole Players Collaboration
Ed. Note: Historical Society President Peg Dion reports that the Walpole Historical Society is sponsoring the Walpole Cemetery Tour at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, as part of Old Home Days. If you've not taken the tour, do it! You'll come away with greater appreciation for the characters, ordinary people and heroes that preceded us in our town!
Also, from 11-2 on Saturday the 28th, on the Common, Jeanne and Peter Jeffries will offer a Genealogy Workshop at the Walpole Historical Society table. This information was not included in the schedule published on the Walpolean yesterday! Plus, Jeanne and Peter will be at the Academy on July 16 and on August 5 from 1 - 3 p.m. to offer their Genealogy Workshop to anyone. No pre-registration needed. They have given this workshop at the Cheshire Historical Society, have been involved in their own family research for many years and are willing to share their knowledge with others interested in this subject. CCB
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NH Heritage Arts Display at Historical Society
Ed. Note: June is flying by! Don't miss this exhibit at the Historical Society. Remember, they're only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. CCB
6-4-08
Walpole Historical Society Shows NH Heritage Arts
By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer
Walpole’s Historical Society is hosting a “Discovering Heritage Arts in New Hampshire” show at the Academy building on Main Street on Wednesdays and Saturdays through June.
Some of the heritage arts illustrated in the show are stonewall building, sheep raising and wool production, basket making, contra dancing, French Canadian soirees, blacksmithing, dog sledding and fly tying.
Created by the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, the exhibit features eight cultural heritage arts associated with the Granite State. It has been developed for families and is appealing for children from third grade up and to adults.
Walpole Historical Society volunteers Carol Christian and Dutchie Perron have creatively enhanced the Council exhibit with tools, furniture and other related objects from the Society’s collection and with borrowed pieces from Society members. These added features include a spinning wheel and tools for wool production near the display stand on sheep shearing, blacksmith tools and products near the blacksmithing display, and an old fiddle and dancing clogs near the French Canadian soiree display. In addition Joe and Peggy Dion have loaned an entire collection of fly tying tools and materials.
State Arts Council Traditional Arts Coordinator Lynn Martin Graton of Concord set up the exhibit last week. She said “Its purpose is to encourage kids—and adults—to value these cultural traditions in their communities. They include traditional crafts, music, ways of making things, and dance.”
Graton added, “With all the major changes we are facing in our country—climate change, increasing fuel prices, etc.—I think there’ll be a wave of nostalgia for and a higher value placed on our older, simpler skills and traditions.”
The exhibit is based upon a new interactive feature of the State Arts Council’s educational resource, the New Hampshire Folklife web site. Graton developed the traveling exhibit using artwork created by New Hampshire illustrators. Artists were asked to include particular tools, processes and forms in the images. A text panel with explanations of the key elements then accompanies each image. One important goal is to expand our idea of literacy to include language special to traditional arts. “These words are part of our heritage and help us understand the complexity of our traditions,” says Graton. To see the “Heritage Arts Build-A-Picture Activities, you can visit the Learning Center section of the New Hampshire Folklife website at www.nh.gov/folklife.
Graton traced the origin of the New Hampshire Folklife Website to the 1999 Smithsonian Folklife Festival that featured presentations of traditional culture on the National Mall in Washington DC and for which Walpole’s Merv Stevens played a leading role. The festival program featured several Walpole participants including the Graves family who presented oxen, Doug Faxon who demonstrated stone wall building, and Bensonwood who sponsored the raising of a 40’x60’ timber framed barn. The program was restaged in 2000 at the Hopkinton State Fairgrounds. After these two major events, the State Arts Council sought to continue to promote the important folklife traditions of New Hampshire and to provide an educational resource for teachers, students and the general public through the development of a website.
The traveling exhibit now on display at the Walpole Historical Society is another way the State Arts Council is seeking to promote appreciation for our traditions and tradition bearers in local communities. The exhibit will tour several community sites this summer and fall. The Tracy Memorial Library in New London will host the exhibit in July.
The Walpole Historical Society is open from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays and by special appointment other days. Telephone the Society at 756-3449 to arrange tours other than in regular hours. The Society will also be open special hours to be announced during Walpole Old Home Days June 25 to 29.
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Walpole Village School Open House Tomorrow
6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Ed. Note: Lil DeCoste reports that there is an Open House tomorrow night--Tuesday--at Walpole Village School. "Our goal, she says, "is to provide a time for new parents and/or prospective parents to see the school and have the chance to ask questions. If you know someone who might be interested in learning more about the school please encourage them to come. You are welcome to join them. If you have a child that is just starting in the fall, this would be a fun time for them to "come to their school"!
We'll be there at 6:30 and plan to stay until 8:00. Parents and kids are welcome to drop in anytime.
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Old Home Days Printable Schedule
Ed. Note: You've been wanting this! Here it is. Print three copies. One for the fridge. One for the bathroom mirror. One for the car. Plan now to attend! CCB
Walpole Old Home Days 2008
Schedule of Events
Note: $$ indicates that tickets need to be purchased. If no sign, participation is free.
Friday, June 20
Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You – Doors open 7 pm, Curtain rises at 7:30 pm - Walpole Town Hall $$
Saturday, June 21
Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You – Doors open 7 pm, Curtain rises at 7:30 pm - Walpole Town Hall $$
Sunday, June 22
Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You – Doors open 1:30 pm,
Curtain rises at 2 pm - Walpole Town Hall $$
Wednesday, June 25
5:30 pm Block Party hosted by Connecticut River Bank, N.A. & the Leslie Hubbard Family - Connecticut River Bank Parking Lot with music by THE ILLUSION
Thursday, June 26
Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You – Doors open 7 pm, Curtain rises at 7:30 – Walpole Town Hall $$
Friday, June 27
9 am – 8 pm Walpole Community Pool - Free to all
4 pm – 6 pm Strawberry Shortcake by Tom Murray to benefit
Walpole Youth Baseball - In front of Murray’s Restaurant $$
5 pm Talent show sponsored by the Savings Bank of Walpole - Walpole
Town Hall. Sign up with Trina Carmody at 756-3836 in advance, please. Awards to be given right after performance.
7 pm – 11 pm Dance in bank parking lot across from The Tavern. Music by Weathered Roads
7 pm – 11 pm American Legion food booth $$
9:30 pm Fireworks shot from North road over village
Saturday, June 28
7 am – 9 am Academy Breakfast for all who attended the Academy and spouses. Prizes for youngest, oldest, longest distance traveled – Tent on Historical Society Lawn
8:30 am 5K Race and Children’s Race (12 and under) Start/Finish at Walpole Town Hall - Prizes - Benefit of Fall Mountain running & skiing teams $$
8:30 am Power Walk with Paula Burdick - Prizes -Walpole Town Hall $$
9 am Pies for Grange Pie-Baking Contest to Town Hall for judging
9 am – 8 pm Walpole Community Pool - Free to all
9 am – 4 pm Common displays for Walpole non-profits…educational, fundraising and food
Walpole Historical Society Information
Walpole Recycling Action Program Information
Walpole Community Grange Pie Baking Contest\Pie & Coffee
Walpole Old Home Day Committee Water, Souvenirs, Totes & Info., Hamburgers, Fried dough
Walpole Village School Chicken-on-stick, Iced tea, Fruit cup
Walpole Parent Teacher Group Root Beer Floats
Walpole Conservation Committee Educational
Gary Speed Preserved Animal Display
Art Co-op Artisan Displays
Child Family Services Educational
Boy Scout Troop 299 Hot Dogs, Soda, Water
Pinnacleview 4-H Club Lemonade, Icees & Petting Zoo
Hubbard Farms Educational\Baby Chicks
Organic Valley Farms Educational\Give-a-ways
Hooper Institute Information
Life Fellowship Foursquare Church Information & Desserts
(Continued)
Congregational Church Barbecue Tickets
Charles Phillips Play BUX Game
Monadnock Conservancy Information
Walpole Fire & EMS Ladies Aux. Popcorn, Cotton Candy,
Quilt Raffle
Walpole Fire Department Fire Safety Trailer
Hooper Hill Hoppers Raffle Tickets
The Pink Sox—Tiffany, Patty, Bake Sale, T-shirts & Face Painting
& Chris Neal
Kirsty Patch—David’s House Food--Subs, Sausage & Meatballs
TriVillage Energy Solar Cooking
Personal Ponies Info. on Companion Ponies
10 am - PARADE - Starts at Walpole School - First – third prizes for:
most original, funniest, best theme, best junior entry, best
neighborhood entry
11 am – 4 pm - Antique Vehicle Show - Historical Society lawn - Vote for your favorite car, truck and tractor!!
11 am – Grange Pie Baking Contest - Call Gwen Yardley 756-3677 to enter your pie! Prizes to be awarded. Walpole Town Hall
11 am – 12:30 pm Basketball 3-point Shootout – Savings Bank lot
11:30 am – Jim Collins will read about playing baseball in Walpole from his well-received book, The Last Best League - Walpole Town Library
12 noon - Pet Show – Behind Telephone Building
Children’s categories: 1. Largest pet 2. Smallest pet 3. Longest tail 4. Costume class 5. Shortest tail 6. Most unusual pet
7. Cutest pet 8. Judges choice award
Adult categories: 1. Oldest Pet 2. Costume Class 3. Owner/pet look-a-like 4. Most enthusiastic pet owner—Roxy Memorial Trophy 5. Judges choice award
12 noon – 3 pm Hayrides around town provided by R.N. Johnson’s
1 pm – 3 pm Open House at the Historical Society
1 pm – 3 pm Firefighters challenge (Age 6-12) Skating rink
1 pm Cemetery Tour provided by Walpole Players and friends. Starts in front of Walpole School
1 pm – 3 pm Children’s Woodsmen Contest - Divisions 7 years and under, 8 years – 12 years, 13 years – 18 years - Skating rink
(2person events: logroll, chunk throw, cross cut saw, surprise event
3 pm – Adult Woodsmen Contest - same events
MUSIC on the BANDSTAND during the day
The East Bay Jazz Ensemble
The “Panhandlers” Steel Band
7:00 pm Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You - Doors open 7 pm – Walpole Town Hall $$
Sunday, June 29
7 am – 11 am Breakfast to benefit Walpole Historical Society – Tent on Historical Society Lawn $$
9 am – 8 pm Walpole Community Pool - Free to all
8:00 am St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Walpole
9:30 am St. Peter’s Catholic Church, North Walpole
10:00 am First Congregational Church, Walpole
10:00 am St. John’s Episcopal Church, Walpole
10:30 am Walpole Unitarian Church, Walpole
2 pm – 5 pm – Tea & Refreshments at Hastings House next to Unitarian Church $$
2 pm – 4 pm - Jazz concert in memory of Lou Andreoli at Walpole Unitarian Church, Music by Samirah Evans, accompanied by Jason Ennis, Armen Donelian, George Kaye
3 pm till sold out - Chicken Barbecue & a la carte supper items - First Congregational Church $$
5:30 pm - Band Concert with Bob Cunniff Orchestra – sponsored by the Boy Scouts of Walpole. Donation basket will be passed.
*** Presentation of parade awards and other drawings at intermission. ***
7:30 pm – Walpole Players You Can’t Take It With You - Doors open at 7 pm – Walpole Town Hall $$
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Lecture Tonight at St. John's Episcopal Church
Ed. Note: A reminder from Rev. Susan Kershaw about tonight's community lecture at St. John's Episcopal Church...CCB
Community Lecture: Abraham’s Family Reunion with Jim Levinson and Javed Chaudhri, Tonight, May 16, 7 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Elm and Westminster Streets, Walpole.
Jim and Javed were instrumental in interfaith work in the Brattleboro area. Abraham’s Family Reunion is an effort to build understanding and community between the three Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.
F. James Levinson, Ph.D has been serving as Spiritual Leader (Shaliach Tzibur) of the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community (BAJC) since 2001. Earlier he served in the same capacity at Temple Israel in Athol Massachusetts for 13 years. Levinson is a member of the local clergy association and a founding member of the social action-oriented Brattleboro Area Interfaith Initiative. Under his leadership, BAJC was nationally recognized for its efforts to facilitate Muslim-Jewish understanding through the Salaam-Shalom Program. Levinson also was an organizer of the 1995 interfaith commemoration in Poland of the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. Levinson has been involved in international nutrition work in Asia and Africa for the past 44 years, and has been on the faculty of MIT, Tufts University and the SIT Graduate Institute in Vermont.
Javed Chaudhri was born in Pakistan near the Afghan border, and grew up in the Pakistani Western Himalayan school, the Lawrence College. In 1965 he arrived in Vermont to attend Marlboro College, graduated with High Honors in History, returned to Pakistan for 5 years and worked for Unilever. In 1971, he returned to the US to attend the New School in NYC and the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, earned a graduate degree in Anthropology, taught briefly at the Community College of Vermont and then settled down in Montreal. In 1980 he again returned to Pakistan shortly after the Russian invasion of Afghanistan and stayed for twenty years, traveling to India, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. He became a well known and successful business manager and consultant, taught business in graduate school and re-established close ties with many of the political and military personalities as well as business leaders whom he had grown up with. He has spoken at various fora, schools, colleges, churches and peace rallies in the United States on Afghanistan, Iraq, Islam and the Muslim World. Javed is a lay member of a unique interfaith group, the Brattleboro Area Clergy whose members seek to work in unison as inheritors of the Abrahamic tradition. Javed is married to Yasmeen a graduate of Antioch New England Graduate Center and is a teacher in Brattleboro. Their eldest son Tariq also graduated from Marlboro College and their twin sons Taimur and Tahir, born in Montreal, also studied at the same college.
The lecture is open to the whole community and is free. For more information, please call 756-4533 or 756-2962.
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June 10 Planning Board Minutes
Town of Walpole, NH 03608
PLANNING BOARD MEETING June 10, 2008 at 7:00pm Town Hall
MINUTES
Presiding: Jeff Miller, Ch.
Members Present: Bob Miller, V-Ch., Henry Fletcher, Sheldon Sawyer, BOS, Ben Daviss,
Jeff White, alt., Donn Lounsbury, alt., Fred Dill, alt.
Members Absent: E. Merklien, D. DeCoste, S O’Keefe Recording: Pamela Aslinger, Sec./alt.
These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the July 8, 2008 meeting for errors,
omissions and corrections. There were 20 persons in attendance.
I. Meeting opened at 7:00pm
A. Roll Call - Ch. designated F. Dill for E. Merklien, D. Lounsbury for D. DeCoste
B. Minutes - A motion to approve the minutes as presented was made and seconded.
Motion carried unanimously.
II. Review applications submitted: Accept/Reject/Delay before opening Public Hearing
A. Hick’s Machine Inc. Expedited Site Plan Review located at 65 Maplewood Circle, Map 23, Lot 14 in the Industrial district. The minor proposal is for a 2,464 sq. ft. addition to the SE rear side of the existing building and removal of one small shed. Waivers were presented. Ch. Miller explained that the Site Plan regulations provide an expedited review for this type of minor site plan and read through the checklist of waivers asking the board to consider the waivers as part of the completed application. Mr. Dill moved to accept the application with the waivers as complete, seconded by Mr. B. Miller, motion carried unanimously.
III. Closed meeting/opened Public Hearing. Mr. Hicks was present to answer questions and gave a brief overview, pointing out where the addition was located and the shed being removed. The addition will have a trussed roof and be very similar to existing building. Ch. Miller called for questions or comments, hearing none from the audience or board,
IV. 7:12pm Closed the Public Hearing/re-opened the meeting. Action on application: Approve/Disapprove/Delay. Ch. Miller called for board action on the proposal. A motion to approve the application as presented was made and seconded, vote taken, motion carried unanimously. The plans were signed and a follow-up letter will be sent.
II. B. Etka Patel/No. Walpole Realty Trust - Site Plan Review located at 988 Main St. (Rte. 12) in N. Walpole, Map 28, Lot 154 in the Residential district. Proposal converts former Mr. G’s Warehouse to an 11,000 sq. ft. convenience store with a 1-bedroom employee apartment. Lot is .75 ac with 390 ft. of frontage on Main St. and is pending approval from N. Walpole zoning commission. Waivers were presented. Ch. Miller briefly described the proposal as above noting that the N. Walpole Zoning Board had given their approval (letter on file) with conditions for a change in non-conforming use. He read through the list of waivers presented with the application and called for a motion to accept the application as complete along with the waivers. It was so moved by Mr. B. Miller and seconded by Mr. Dill, motion carried unanimously.
III. Closed meeting/opened Public Hearing. Attorney Rob Kasper was present representing Mr. Patel who was in attendance. He described the action taken by the N. Walpole Zoning Commissioners as granting a change in a non-conforming use from an industrial warehouse to a retail commercial convenience store. He introduced Paul Grazewicz as the engineer available to describe the site layout and how they addressed the NWZC conditions. One of the conditions was to obtain a driveway permit from the State regarding the entrances and an inspection by the fire chief. The fire chief on Friday completed his inspection. He said they are asking the State to extend the sidewalk on the northerly side along Rte. 12.
Mr. Grazewicz referred to the plan noting two changes in response to Josephine Slomba, abutter regarding lower tree plantings to allow for proper snow removal of her driveway and to create a 4 ft. gravel access path for her. There was a proposed curb island at the south entrance; they are currently revising it to allow for two separate entrances instead of one large opening servicing her driveway and the store. Again it allows for snow removal. They have submitted the plans to DOT on June 5th, DOT had a couple of comments re: the Hwy. Numbering, and requested that they widen the southern entrance to 30 feet. He said the existing footprint stays the same, the parking will be paved, the existing tree line remains except to
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 6/10/08 page 2
allow for the dumpster. He said the lighting is existing with two on the building to the north, a proposed surface mounted light at both entrances. He said there is an existing pole light, mercury or sodium type and there is an existing street light near the proposed entrance, he thought it was sufficient. The new sign will be lit according to what is allowed in the ordinance. There are 27 parking spaces with 8 spaces on each side of the building and they are installing a sidewalk alongside of the building. The building is hooked to sewer and water and all the existing drainage will be utilized. There is a proposed apartment in the back right of the building, 550 sq. feet used exclusively by the manager of the store, functioning as a security also. The plans show the hours of operation being 7am - 10pm, 7 days per week.
Mr. Dill asked if the rest of the upstairs would be used? Mr. Patel said it would not be used at all, not even for storage. Mr. Grazewicz thought the project would be a nice addition to the area from its present condition as an abandoned warehouse with a rusty loading dock that will be cleaned up and removed. He added that it should be handy to N. Walpole citizens to shop for general groceries.
Mr. Dill asked if there are sidewalks from the bridge over? Answer was yes on the westerly side of Rte. 12 and east side in front of the site. There is a nice grass strip for walking to the North before it meets up with the sidewalk. Mr. Grazewicz asked DOT if they would be interested in providing a sidewalk to the north of the site along the grass strip, they were not willing to become involved. Mr. Kasper added that discussion at the NWZC public hearing brought out the type of store they are proposing, it will have a deli, and grocery items such as bread, eggs and milk rather than typical convenience store fare such as gas, alcohol and tobacco.
Ch. Miller called for questions, comments or concerns. Mrs. Cathy Kopij, abutter is concerned about the lack of sidewalk to the north and proposes a crosswalk. Mr. Grazewicz, answered the grass strip is suitable for walking. There may be times when trains have stopped traffic that it might be difficult to cross but the posted speed limit is quite slow also - 15mph S and 30mph N. She asked about truck traffic and off loading, would it conflict with store traffic during business hours? Mr. Grazewicz pointed to the loading area and space that is front left of the building where the roll up door is. He said the frequency of deliveries would be one to two per day during working hours, not after hours. The trucks will not stop on Rte. 12, and the site will not accommodate 18 wheelers even though it has happened at other stores along Rte. 12, there is also a curb that prevents a truck from trying to park on Rte. 12. Mr. Kasper agreed a painted crosswalk would be a good idea, to check with DOT, and could additionally help to slow down traffic. Mr. White questioned the space allowed for a 53 ft. truck, he drives by the area everyday and has noticed trucks at the Citgo station/ Jiffy Mart on Rte. 12 and he has seen persons exceeding the speed limit. He said it is vital not to block the stores entrance with delivery trucks. Mr. Patel said all deliveries would be made by smaller 24 ft. “straight” trucks so he does not anticipate any problems with blocking the entrance. Ch. Miller called for final comments, hearing none -
IV. Closed the Public Hearing and re-opened the meeting at 7:30pm. Ch. Miller called for Board comments. Mr. B. Miller asked if there were any future plans to sell gasoline, answer was no, there is not enough space. Ch. Miller suggested they return to the NWVC or Town about crosswalks and sidewalks. Selectman Sawyer said the Town would be responsible for putting them in if DOT will not, and mentioned DOT would need to be contacted first since it is a State road. He said if there is a crosswalk it must be used exclusively for crossings. Ch. Miller called for board action. Mr. Sawyer made a motion to approve the plan as presented and based on having received permission from the N. Walpole Zoning Board. Mr. Dill seconded. Mr. Dill moved to amend the motion to include the provision that no further apartments will be allowed without returning to the planning board for approval, that the proposal is for one apartment only. Ch. Miller called for a vote on the amendment - amendment passed unanimously. Ch. Miller called for a vote on the amended motion - the motion passed unanimously. The plans were signed and a follow-up letter will be sent.
V. 7:38 pm Close Meeting/Open Public Hearing/Close Public Hearing/Re-open meeting on draft amendment to Site Plan Review regulations. Ch. Miller explained the purpose of the amendment is to request building design information as part of Site Plan application materials to aid the board in making an informed decision. He added that in the past it was assumed the information was to be included but the regulations did not actually require it. This amendment if passed would require the information. He read the amendment as shown on the agenda. He called for public comment, questions or discussion. Hearing none he closed the public hearing 7:40pm and called for board action.
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 6/10/08 page 3
Mr. Ben Daviss made a motion to approve the amendment as presented, Mr. Bob Miller seconded. Ch. Miller called for a vote, motion carried unanimously, except for Mr. Sawyer who abstained.
VI. Unfinished Business: Pending Applications
A. Chamberlain Machine - Revision to approved plans. Mr. Chris Miller was present with owner Mr. Scott Boynton and Mr. Peter Wotowiec of Bensonwood Homes. Mr. C. Miller presented the board with three new sets of plans reducing the building size, parking lot and reduced lighting with a minor reconfiguration of Huntington Lane to improve a protective buffer. Mr. C. Miller explained the driveway arrangement was straightened and moved closer to the building and to allow Bensonwood better access. They have decreased the parking lot paved area and reduced the footprint of the building. There is less lighting; less landscaping, curbed islands have been replaced with painted bump outs to allow for plowing. He said they’ve been coordinating with Bensonwood on their proposal and turned the explanation over to Mr. Wotowiec. He said it became clear if they continued the road straight they would cut into the protective buffer allowed for the residences. They have redesigned the road to be slightly angled to accommodate the buffer of large established evergreens and it will be nearer to the property lines. They have met with SVE, Chamberlain’s engineer and Jim Terrell, town road agent who has given a verbal approval to the new configuration. The modification will be part of Chamberlain’s proposal rather than waiting for Bensonwood’s proposal to go through the site plan application process thus allowing for Chamberlain to proceed with their construction sequence. Mr. Wotoweic said Bensonwood would be submitting their proposal to the board at the July meeting.
Mr. Dill asked if the entry way off Rte. 12 was the same? Answer was yes. Mr. Wotowiec pointed to the maps and detailed the future use of the road, noting it narrowed to 20 feet along the back as approved by Mr. Terrell.
Mr. C. Miller described the parking area and entrance-way changes eliminating 15,000 sq. ft. of pavement but preserves the functionality for employees and truck traffic. He said the bump outs at the end of the parking sections are now to be painted instead of curbed to allow for plowing. They have maintained the required landscaping ratio and the parking islands planted as required. He said some islands and lighting have been eliminated by a similar percentage, the type of lighting is the same. They are keeping the storage shed and existing house. He said because of the structural engineering for the building and the column locations they reduced the size of the building and the footprint is slightly changed with a 30 ft. jog. The functionality remains the same and the main entrance is more centralized. The building went from 49K to 47K sq. ft. Ch. Miller called for comments. Mr. Fred Dill made a motion to approve the amendments to the Site Plan approval as presented. Mr. Sawyer seconded. Ch. Miller called for discussion, being none called for the vote, motion carried unanimously. Plans were signed, a follow up letter will be sent. Mr. Miller said they were working with Mr. Houghton regarding the water and sewer hook up, there would be some revisions and they will keep the board informed at a later date. Sec. Aslinger received a letter from the water commissioner regarding some changes it will be kept on file. They are also working with the Fire Chief.
B. Griswold Place 16 Westminster St. - Revision to approved plans - Minor reduction of parking lot size, increased green space with added landscaping, plus an improvement to “lane”. Sec. Aslinger presented the board with plans submitted by Mr. Red Smith, Property manager. Mr. Smith attached a letter that stated, “We have turned the space 90 degrees and eliminated one space.” (from 5 to 4). “This change will allow us to vastly increase the green space which will improve the appearance and livability for neighbors and the tenants. The scope of the work also includes repaving the existing pavement of the right of way drive.”
Members reviewed the previous plan noting the dumpster was moved to the east side away from the “Ernst” abutters property line and the addition of more trees. Ch. Miller called for comments or concerns, hearing none called for board action. Mr. Fred Dill made a motion to approve the revisions as presented, seconded by Mr. Lounsbury. Ch. Miller called for a vote, motion carried unanimously. The plans were signed and a follow up letter will be sent.
VIII. New Business: Preliminary Conceptual Consultations
A. Lawrence Associates - Virginia Foote presented an application for a Lot Line Adjustment located on Hillcrest Rd. and Parris Lane in North Walpole, Map29 Lots 40 & 41 between Peter and Patricia Wheeler and Ronald Hill. The change results in Lot 40 becoming 1.20 ac. and Lot 41 becoming 3.9 ac. and Wheeler’s driveway will be on their own lot. Fees and abutter list accompanied the application. All
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 6/10/08 page 4
setbacks and lot sizes are conforming. Mr. Dill made motion to schedule the application for the July 8, 2008 meeting and schedule the public hearing, it was seconded, vote taken, motion carried unanimously.
B. Mrs. Shirley Frost - Mrs. Frost was present with her son and described their desire to locate a second mobile home on a parcel they own at 84 Valley Rd. She said she had spoken with the BOS who urged her to appear before the ZBA and PB to go over the possibility. She said her husband’s health is failing and they are selling their house on Maplewood Avenue and they would like to remain in Walpole, they’ve lived here for 50 years. In order to do so they would like to make use of the lot they own by putting a second mobile home next to her son’s mobile home so they can be helped along as they age and so they can live in a one level home. She thought a variance might be needed according to what has been discussed. She said the existing septic is adequate and could be added to, the variance would be for the shortage of 45 feet of frontage to create two lots. She said her son would be building a new home on the site at some point. She said the BOS agreed with her that the Town needs to make a provision for situations like hers. Ch. Miller asked if it would be permanent? Her son said no, only until either of his parent’s pass on or need to be moved to a nursing home. Mr. Sawyer said the Selectboard were going to grant a temporary permit to place the second mobile home on the lot with the condition it be removed when Mr. Frost passes away, however if Mrs. Frost wants to remain now, that might create a conflict with a temporary status. Mr. Fletcher remembered this type of accommodation being allowed before. Mr. Sawyer agreed thinking of two others. Ch. Miller asked if a slab or permanent foundation was needed and if there are other structures on the lot. Her son answered only his mobile home and a garage are on the property, plus the state requires a slab. Mr. Sawyer said it does not require a slab because the permanent foundation can be built in.
Mr. Dill asked for a clarification, the agenda reads “subdivision” rather than a temporary variance that is being discussed and about the septic. Mrs. Frost and son prefer the temporary allowance over a subdivision. The son said the septic leachfield was done 5 years ago by Johnny Mathews, there are 4-20 ft. runs, that the area is very sandy and advised him to dig 2 feet below grade, put in a foot of concrete sand and inch and a half stone with a 4 inch perforated pipe and cover it with fabric. They have a 1000 tank and would install another 1000 gallon tank that he could also use in the future when he builds his house. He would be adding on to the existing septic rather than putting in a new system for the second mobile home, but will put in the additional tank.
Sec. Aslinger said she spoke with Mrs. Frost when she inquired about being placed on the agenda. Sec. Aslinger said she read through the regulations trying to determine where it was allowed to put two mobile homes on one lot, but the regulations and ordinances do not specifically make a provision to allow such a placement on a single lot. She said that’s why she suggested Mrs. Frost consider a subdivision of the lot in order to make it a legal situation. Because the lot does not have adequate frontage for two lots, she suggested she contact the ZBA to discuss seeking a variance for the 45 feet of missing frontage. She said that is why Mrs. Frost was placed on the agenda for subdivision, the ZBA has the authority to consider variances. If a variance is obtained then she would return to the Planning Board for a minor 2 lot subdivision creating a separate lot for each of the mobile homes. Ch. Miller agreed with the variance/subdivision process so it would be a legal subdivision. Her son asked how it would affect him in the future if he removed the second mobile home. Ch. Miller suggested he could own both properties and once the second mobile home is removed he could apply for a voluntary merger to make it one lot again. The son asked if he would be required to have two separate septic systems if it were to be subdivided. Sec. Aslinger said because the lots would be less than 3 acres, a state subdivision approval would be required meaning perk tests and septic design, if he wants to use and expand the existing system, she thought that could be a viable proposal to the State, especially if it were going to be a temporary situation. Ch. Miller said he would need a septic plan anyway to add on the 1000 gallon tank. Sec. Aslinger said the result of going through the subdivision process would create two legal lots conforming to the regulations currently in place, it protects the land-owners. Ch. Miller agreed but acknowledged if the BOS permitted them to put the second mobile home on the lot by issuing a building permit, then the Planning Board and ZBA would not be involved. Selectman Sawyer said they have told them they could do it temporarily. Ch. Miller suggested to the Selectboard that it be clearly spelled out that it is a temporary situation and time sensitive, to contact Town legal counsel for an opinion. He said they don’t want to set a precedent or run into complications by issuing what would be considered a temporary variance to allow two single family homes
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 6/10/08 page 5
on one lot. Mr. Sawyer said he wished the ordinances allowed for this type of situation, to help out some of the older citizens by allowing them to live with their family for care. Ch. Miller said it does, by way of variance, he felt there is a mechanism that does make an allowance but cautioned that the Selectmen should seek legal opinion before making an allowance for this situation on their own to avoid future complications. He thought going through the normal variance procedure would be best and agreed the regulations should address the issue, he noted one of the reasons they kept the one acre acreage requirement was to allow farmers to carve off a small lot for family members.
He concluded by saying they have two options, begin by meeting with the ZBA by contacting Myra Mansouri at the next meeting on June 18 to begin the variance process and in the mean time the BOS can discuss their option with Town counsel for an opinion. He said they could seek a variance and then a subdivision with the provision it is for a temporary use, then in the future the land can be returned to one lot in by a voluntary merger or they can wait for the BOS to confirm the legality of allowing them to proceed with temporary permission or some other suggested legal solution. He suggested the BOS work quickly to contact legal counsel. Mr. Sawyer said they would try and added if they did subdivide they would be taxed on two $70,000.00 lots. He said he hated to see persons living in Town 50 years without options other than moving into a nursing home out of Town. Sec. Aslinger asked if by amending the zoning ordinance a couple of years ago requiring multifamily to be all on one foundation closed the door on allowing for a situation like this. She asked if it could be considered a multifamily lot, rather than being a connected multifamily dwelling, she offered to check with other Towns and the State to see how it can be fairly addressed. Ch. Miller said the reason for the amendment was to prevent multifamily dwellings being connected by only a breezeway.
IX. Communications and Miscellaneous
A. Master Plan Update - Mr. Daviss said he and Mr. Schupack met with SWRPC to review the vision statement and goals and objectives for any conflicting language and compatibility with the Master Plan, they would do the tidy up as part of the membership fees/annual dues. They will prepare a cost proposal on the rewrite of the land use technical section hopefully by the next work session. Sec. Aslinger asked if the Board wanted to set the dates for the public hearings to adopt the Conservation Commission documents into the Master Plan. The documents are the Comparative Land Values and Farms Forests Streams inventory. Selectman Sawyer questioned why they should be included in the Master Plan that he takes dim view of the Conservation Commission’s reports being included since it was made up for them. Mr. Fletcher said the Planning Board was being bashed by some of the Conservation people, thinking the Board is stupid and doesn’t know what they are doing. Sec. Aslinger asked if so then the planning board should not consider or take anything they (WCC) do as important? She said it is documented information with the mapping based on facts and data. It’s information that should be included in the Master Plan wouldn’t we want comparative land values and our natural resources as part of the master plan? Mr. Daviss said the documents also support the Master Plan revision by giving some background and data to establish the goals and objectives in the survey the Town responded to, in addition SWRPC will read through the documents as part of their proposal to tell us if there are any inconsistencies before adopting it into the Master Plan. Ch. Miller said then it would be best to wait until they had a chance to comment on it before holding any public hearings. Mr. Sawyer said one thing he noticed in the document was a goal of setting aside 25% of all lands for conservation which is not accessible to the public, thinking, is that something the Town wants? He said they have 12 % presently, he’s not sure whether SWRPC came up with that or if it was the previous Conservation Commission members. He said that was one of the things that could greatly affect the Town because land that is put in conservation is not taxable -basically. Mr. Fletcher asked if he thought the land would be “posted” after its put into easement? Mr. Sawyer said some of it has been posted already. Mr. Daviss said he was unaware the plan called for 25% having not had a chance to read it entirely. Mr. Sawyer said if they let SWRPC do all the planning for us they could do away with the Conservation Commission, Planning and Zoning and have Statewide zoning which is what he thinks the State wants. He doesn’t think that’s what the Town of Walpole wants. He thinks what we have works although the Town has changed not being as much as an agrarian society but there hasn’t been a tremendous influx of people either.
Mr. Dill reflecting on the Frost’s situation thought a couple of years ago they could have proceeded, now they are going to be 12-15 thousand dollars in the hole and delayed 3 or 4 months at 1000 dollars per month. He said we keep adding pages and pages of regulations making it difficult to help people when the need arises. He said it’s supposedly to keep the bad guys out of Town but he thinks it
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 6/10/08 page 6
punishes the people already living in Town. Ms. Aslinger said she thought the regulations protect the property owners. Mr. Dill disagreed saying every time something new is added the large property owners ie, the farmer’s are being hurt. They get hit every single time and it takes away the flexibility on their largest asset. Mr. White said the flip side is the property owner’s view living across the street from two mobile homes kitty cornered on one lot with one septic system so they can save money while the neighbors take it to court and spend their own money trying to fight it. Ch. Miller disagreed with Mr. Dill saying there have been instances where the Town has accommodated a need and it’s come back to haunt them. He said even without any changes to the ordinances, there is a rational for they way the ordinance was written in the 1960’s and as Sheldon pointed out it has worked for many years without major changes and has protected the Town. He said it doesn’t work out when the rules and regulations aren’t applied. He said the abutters could be adversely affected in their property values by this type of allowance. Mr. Dill agreed with his thinking but thought it was scary to think the Conservation Commissions document full of changes could be adopted without members realizing a goal of setting aside 25% of land for conservation being included. Ch. Miller said most of the natural resources information is already covered in the Master Plan. Mr. Dill thought the Board was voting tonight to include the WCC’s report in the Master Plan. Ch. Miller said no, it was to consider scheduling the public hearing only, but it has been tabled pending SWRPC’s review mentioned by Mr. Daviss. Sec. Aslinger said at the last work session members discussed holding a public hearing on the two documents so she added it to the agenda, not knowing about the SWRPC review, which she agreed should be considered before a hearing. Mr. Sawyer said the 25% was brought up at the first Master Plan Work Session. Ch. Miller asked if the Conservation Commission members were appointed by the Selectmen? Mr. Sawyer said yes, and the alternates are appointed as well.
B. Fees increase request - Sec. Aslinger asked the Board to please consider the $25.00 increase she is requesting and whether anyone had studied the other Town’s fees she prepared. Mr. Sawyer moved to keep them the same as what they are, seconded by Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Daviss asked if the fees were covering the costs? Sec. Aslinger said no they are not, that is why she asked for the increase. Mr. Daviss asked why the Board is subsidizing applicants? Ch. Miller called for discussion with the motion on the floor. Mr. Sawyer said you are not supposed to cover all the costs of the planning and zoning board budget through the fees, its supposed to cover the cost of a particular application, not doing the master plan. Sec. Aslinger agreed that the fees are to cover the applications only. He said then you have to look at being more expensive than surrounding Towns, why? If the school systems are costing more, are you getting better education or more expensive education? He questions whether the fees should be higher than every other Town except for Chesterfield and where does it stop? If fee structures are only supposed to cover the costs why limit them to planning and zoning, why not set fees for anything that comes up perhaps there should be user fees for education, roads. Mr. Daviss asked whether the planning board fees were covering the actual costs of processing the applications? Sec. Aslinger said no, even with the increase it is not fully covering the expenses - but it is offsetting them. Postage has gone up three times since the original fees increase, the abutter notice postage is now costing $3.12 and the Board charges $5.00 which may seem like it’s covering the expense but it doesn’t cover the labor. She said even though the Selectmen think they can limit her time by cutting the labor portion of the Board’s budget, she still has to get the legal notices out the alternative would be costly lawsuits. She said she was being very conservative requesting $25.00 per application and upping the postage, she said the Board doesn’t charge for the published legal notice as many Towns do. Ch. Miller pointed to Charlestown, Alstead and Marlboro as comparisons all being lower than Walpole’s fees. Sec. Aslinger said she spoke with individuals of each of the 18 Towns all are interested in getting a copy of the figures she gathered because they don’t feel they are covering their costs. Some Towns haven’t increased fees since 2005. Ch. Miller said a few years ago they were only charging $25.00 now it’s $150.00. Sec. Aslinger argued that the $25.00 wasn’t covering the costs even then but was costing the townspeople instead. He disagreed saying previous clerks weren’t spending as much. Sec. Aslinger said she thought one of the reasons the previous clerk left was because she wasn’t be properly compensated for her time. Mr. Sawyer said it was because her kids were busy with activities and she would be ready to return in two years. Ch. Miller thought the increase was excessive compared to the past. Sec. Aslinger said it seemed the discussion was being directed at her personally. Ch. Miller said no it wasn’t. Mr. Sawyer compared the recyling center costing the taxpayers $150,000 dollars, should they increase the bag fee to cover the costs? Mr. Dill thought there would be a lot more garbage on the side of
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 6/10/08 page 7
the road if they did and Sec. Aslinger thought the fees should be raised for all other Towns using Walpole’s facility. Ch. Miller called for further discussion. Mr. Daviss thought the Board should make an approach
to cover more of the costs instead of operating at a greater loss than needed. He said it cost what it costs - he doesn’t see the relevance to other Towns, someone who wants to build in Walpole is not going to go to Chesterfield to save $25.00. He said it costs what it costs - let’s have the people who want the service pay for the service. Mr. Bob Miller asked what the shortfall is. Ch. Miller said Sec. Aslinger probably knows, that she has put a lot of effort into elevating the position and the Board has benefited, it’s been terrific, a lot of great ideas have come forth through her efforts and he trusts her to account for her time for processing the applications but questions whether the minutes and other board duties should be included in the application fees. He thought there were two distinctions of her time. He said he a few years ago the application fee was $25.00 but at the suggestion of Ms. Aslinger and against what he thought would fly the fees were substantially increased and much to his surprise there hasn’t been any adverse reverberation. Mr. Dill asked if part of the increase from 5 -10 years ago is due to the Board doing the work of the applicants, is it for the Town or applicant, should the applicant’s do more? Sec. Aslinger said she is available anytime to answer questions/inquiries and on some days she has received 15 such phone calls, her cell phone number is “out there” and it is part of the secretarial duties to answer questions as to how to file an application or where to drop off materials or be placed on the agenda. She said she doesn’t charge for the inquiries. The RSA’s state the fees need to be reasonable to cover costs, she isn’t trying to cover SWRPC’s expenses in the fees, only the processing of the applications. She guides the applicant’s through the process and thinks it’s the right approach and the applicant’s have shown their appreciation, the Board may not appreciate her efforts but the applicant’s do and it’s great. Mr. Dill said to take Mrs. Frost as an example, he said she went to the BOS, spoke with Sec. Aslinger who spoke with Ms. Mansouri and then here tonight at the full Planning Board, next to the Zoning Board, doesn’t it seem like too much effort? Ch. Miller said each applicant is different requiring whatever time is needed and trusts Sec. Aslinger to do the work as needed and to account fairly for her time, the issue is whether the Board thinks the fees need to be increased as requested. Sec. Aslinger said she is simply trying to defray some of the costs. Mr. Sawyer said cemetery mowing isn’t being covered by fees either. Ch. Miller called for the vote. Four were in favor of the motion to keep the fees as is and three against. Motion passed. Ch. Miller thanked Sec. Aslinger for the extra effort she puts in. Sec. Aslinger said her intention is to pass the duties on to the next person creating a job that wouldn’t require them to provide their own computer, phone, and office at their home, be on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week and be underpaid by volunteering half of their time. She said she was hoping to recombine the Zoning and Planning secretarial position, however that has been complicated, she hoped to make it a more professional offering in order to attract a qualified person. She said she wishes to spend more time on the Board as a member rather than being bogged down by the clerical duties. She would like to run for a full member and spend her time working on planning, the secretarial position doesn’t pay enough for the amount of time required, she’d rather spend the time working on the Master Plan and regulations.
C. Other - Mr. Sawyer said he would like to mention his concern over interpreting very complicated State and Town regulations more so at the BOS level but he defies any Planning Board member to say they know what they all are or a Selectmen to say the same. They are all the time coming up against an unknown. He said whenever there is a complaint or question whether it is legal or not legal according to the zoning they have to go through the process. He said it behooves them, as planning board members not sit in judgment before the process is complete and that they recognize there is a process that you can go through. As the zoning changes the Board has to change how they view a project. He said to try to research it as much as they can and abide by the regulations as they are. He said they’ve run into a few instances where incorrect statements about a project have been made, so reiterates the need to research before commenting.
X. 8:48pm Mr. Dill moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded, motion carried unanimously.
Next work session to be held 6/24 at 7pm and next meeting 7/8/08 at 7pm.
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Walpole School's Rube Goldberg Day
Ed. Note: Congratulations to Walpole 8th grade students and science teacher/event coordinator Kim Lewis for a terrific Rube Goldberg Day yesterday! See story below! CCB
6-13-08
Rube Goldberg Day at Walpole School
By Chuck and Sue Bingaman, Contributing Writers
What do you get when you combine 60 energetic 8th graders in the last week of the school year, creative, experienced teachers, more than 2 miles of duct tape, 317 marbles, nearly $200,000 in braces?
Rube Goldberg Day yesterday at Walpole School! The day when units on physics are translated into colorful, crashing, even flaming, demonstrations of gravity, motion, potential and kinetic energy and lots of fun! No mere dropping of apples from Newton’s tree for these kids!
Started by former Walpole teacher Robert Brown more than a decade ago, Rube Goldberg Day commemorates the bizarre contraptions created by award-winning cartoonist Rube Goldberg in the 20th century. Goldberg’s hilarious cartoon machines were designed to perform simple tasks in indirect, convoluted ways. Since his death in 1970, schools throughout the world have begun using the creativity and humor involved in Goldbergian designs to help students learn elementary principles of physics.
In Thursday’s 8th grade show of Goldberg-inspired machines, two and three student teams of students, under the supervision of science teacher Kim Lewis and others, created—and named—machines to break eggs for frying, feed goldfish, flash fry tennis balls, and more.
With “Rube Goldberg to the Eggstreme” Chelsea Gay, Megan Smith and Karli McCormick designed a machine using marbles rolling along tilting troughs that turn levers that eventually drop fresh eggs into a frying pan with just enough force to break the shells.
Courtney Phillips, Alysia Evey and Amanda Clark built “The Hampster Maze” in which a very intelligent and cooperative hamster lit a light bulb after traversing a complicated maze that included a teeter-totter and a box full of turns.
Siana Searles, Andrea Perkins,and Chloe Shoppmeyer with their "Fish Food" machine at Thursday's Walpole School Rube Goldberg Day. Sue Bingaman photo.
In the “Tunealater” Alyssa Burns and Kaian Wilkes created a complicated, multi-step machine in which marbles flowed down a corkscrewing length of PVC that eventually triggered a contact that started an Ipod recording a song.
“Felix” the goldfish enjoyed his automatic feeding device, “Fish Food”, designed by Siana Searles, Chloe Schoppmeyer, and Andrea Perkins even if it required a complex system of pulleys and swinging pieces to finally spew the food in his general direction!
Megan Sellarole and Katelyn Atwood created “Hopywoks” and hoped it’d work to light a little flashlight bulb after rolling marbles, tilting levers, and falling wedges of wood eventually resulted in electrical contacts being made.
“By this time in the school year,” laughed science teacher Kim Lewis, “ the kids are getting a little tired of the routine, and it’s getting harder to keep their attention. The Rube Goldberg project is a great way of engaging them and allowing them to apply some important principles of physics in a creative way. And, they learn from each other and practice some teamwork as well.”
Principal Sam Jacobs noted Thursday that “any time middle school students can do problem solving together it’s really valuable. Problem solving is, obviously, a skill they'll use all their lives, and it’s really important. This project also helps them develop their teamwork skills and the habits of learning form each other.
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Walpole Artisans Grand Opening This Weekend
Dutchie Perron told me this a.m. that they'll have wine and cheese--and some great art to sell--at the new shop on Main St. from 6:00 to 8:00 this evening. And, they'll have coffee and donuts tomorrow! Stop in! CCB
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"The Earth's Imagination" Tomorrow at Unitarian MediaCenter
7:00 p.m. at Hastings House
Ed. Note: Robert Watson of the Unitarian Church reminds me that Friday at 7:00 p.m. is the third in the series "The Earth's Imagination" with cosmologist Brian Swimme in the new Media Center developed by the church. There is no admission charge but, as space is limited to 24, you should reserve your space by calling Robert at 756-3711 or emailing him at robertcwatson@verizon.net.. Also let Robert know if you'd like to be on his email list for future series. CCB
Part 3 of this four part series will be shown this Friday [part 4
will be shown Friday June 27th] at the Hastings House behind the
Walpole Unitarian Church in our new MediaCenter.
Cosmologist Brian Swimme places the human psyche within the 15
billion year cosmic process in order to highlight the directions in
which human consciousness is evolving today and into the future.
The titles of the segments to be shown 6/13:
• End of the Cenozoic
• An Ocean of Energy
To be shown 6/27:
• New Forms of Synergy
• The Surprise of Cosmogenesis
Mark your calendars. We invite you to bring a friend and join us for
these thought provoking presentations and the discussions that follow.
Robert Watson 603/756-3711
robertcwatson@verizon.net
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Upcoming Walpole Entertainment
Ed. Note: Jesse Carr and his trio including Genevieve Rose on bass and Andy Jaffe on piano return to Burdick's tonight from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Reservations at 756-9058.
Also note that tickets are now on sale for "You Can't Take It With You", the Walpole Players' new production opening a week from tomorrow night. See below for details. CCB
6-10-08
Summer Fun with “You Can’t Take It With You”
Walpole Players’ Classic Comedy June 20, 21, 22 and 26, 28, and 29
By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer
“You Can’t Take It With You”, the classic Moss Hart/George Kaufman family comedy, lights up Walpole’s Town Hall "Chickie" Miller Theater Friday and Saturday evenings, June 20-21, Sunday afternoon June 22 at 2:00 p.m. and Thursday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, June 26, 28 and 29 in a Walpole Players production directed by Jim Skofield.
The beloved comedy’s stage version won the Pulitzer Prize in 1936, and its film version won the Academy Award in 1938.
“It’s as relevant today as when it debuted because it focuses on funny family situations,” noted director Skofield this week. “We’re doing it in period costumes, and it’s just a refreshing—and very funny—splash of summer fun!”
“Our cast is almost completely ‘old hands’ among Walpole Players, although we do have several newcomers that are adding spice to the recipe!” says Skofield.
The plot revolves around the wacky Sycamore family and their friends and acquaintances. Penny and Paul Sycamore (played by Jean Kobeski and Bill Holtz) lead the Sycamores and introduce the audience to a menagerie of strange and wonderful characters.
Alice Sycamore (played by Rebecca Holtz) is interested in Tony Kirby (played by Brandon Norman) and enjoys the coincidental role of stage daughter as well as real daughter of Bill Holtz.
Tom Durnford plays the hilarious Russian ballet master, and Tara Sad plays The Grand Duchess Olga Katrina. Ray Boas plays Martin Vanderhof “Grandpa”, Jack Pratt plays Henderson, and Chas Street reprises his law enforcement persona as an FBI agent along with Deb Robarge.
A newcomer to The Walpole Players, Kathy Reilly, a small animal vet in Keene, saw last year’s Walpole Players production of “Rumors” and found small town theater was irresistible. Never before on the stage, this year she’s the maid, Mary, and Skofield says she has “the best Irish accent I’ve heard.”
Director Skofield says the highlight for him in this new production is "the feeling of ensemble…the feeling of family. Our actors know each other so well that they can play off each other with amazingly skill and make a very funny play even funnier.”
Barbara Casper, says Skofield, “is doing her usual magic” with costumes, and Bill Perron and David Sanchez-Navarro are building the set. Becky Pearson is stage manager, Ben Northcott is designing the lighting, and Caitlin Baucom is creating the graphics. Eric Merklein manages the sound, Kris Tyson is the house manager, and Myra Mansouri is handling the box office.
Tickets for “You Can’t Take It with You” are $10 for adults and $6 for children under 10. They are available at Galloway Real Estate Services, Real to Reel Video, the Walpole Village Market and Burdick’s Café. Early ticket purchases are recommended to avoid being left out.
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Old Home Days Walpole Celebration Detailed Schedule
6-12-08
Old Home Days to Engulf Walpole
Celebration of Town Life Past, Present and Future
By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer
Walpole Old Home Days, a once every three years extravaganza of small town history, fun, culture and entertainment is set to engulf Walpole Wednesday, June 25 through Sunday, June 29 at venues throughout the village.
“No matter what your age or interests,” said co-chair Cindy Westover last week, “ We have several events and opportunities to engage friends and neighbors and to have a great time in our town! It’s just amazing what a committee of two dozen people have organized for this action packed weekend!”
Beginning with a town “Block Party” sponsored by the Connecticut River Bank N.A. and the Hubbard Family at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, the events are non-stop.
On Thursday evening at 7:30 the Walpole Players raise the curtain at Town Hall on “You Can’t Take It With You”, the classic Moss Hart/George Kaufman family comedy. The play that won the Pulitzer Prize in 1936 is as relevant today as when it debuted because it focuses on strikingly funny family situations. Playwrights Hart and Kaufman in this play built the model on which later sitcoms were based and their intent was simply to entertain. As Newport Opera House Director Charles Massey noted last fall, “there is a lot of valuable wisdom inherent in the script. This family makes it through the Depression by being a family.” He added, with a laugh, “They were also Hippies before there were Hippies!” “You Can’t Take It with You” also runs Friday and Sunday evenings, June 27 and 29 at 7:30. (Tickets are available at Burdick’s Café, Galloway Real Estate, and Real to Reel Video.)
Friday events feature a 4-6:00 p.m. Strawberry Shortcake at Murray’s to benefit Walpole Youth Baseball, a 4:00-7:00 p.m. Talent Show with Adult and Youth Divisions and prizes at Town Hall, a 7:00-11:00 p.m. Street Dance with music by Weathered Roads and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, the 28th opens with a 7-9:00 a.m. breakfast at the Academy for all who attended school there and a 5K road race and children’s fun run at 8:30 a.m. at the Town Hall. At 10:00 a.m. the town’s biggest, most amazing parade ever departs from Walpole School to circle the center of the village.
Other Saturday events include:
· 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Walpole organizations exhibiting their activities on the Common.
· 11:00 to 4:00 p.m. Antique Car show on the Historical Society Lawn
· 11:00 to 12:30 p.m. Basketball shoot-out in the Savings Bank of Walpole parking lot
· 11:30 a.m. Jim Collins, author of “The Last Best League”, the story of the Cape Cod collegiate baseball league, reads from his book at the Walpole Town Library
· 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Pet show with multiple classes for adult and youth pet owners
· 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. Hayrides around the Common provided by R.N. Johnson
· 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Firefighters challenge
· All-day music on the bandstand on the Common
Sunday’s activities begin with a public breakfast fundraiser for the Historical Society on the Academy lawn from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. From 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. tea and refreshments will be served at Hastings House, and a jazz concert in memory of Lou Andreoli will be held at the Unitarian Church. From 3:00 p.m. until it is sold out, the Congregational Church will be offering chicken BBQ and the trimmings at the church. At 5:30 p.m. Bob Cunniff and his Orchestra will entertain in the bandstand on the Common before the 7:30 p.m. curtain for the play.
For further information, call Cindy Westover at 756-3661 or co-chair Joan Devault at 756-3295.
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Selectmen's Minutes for May 29 Meeting
Ed. Note: Thanks to Regina Borden for these minutes of the May 29 meeting of the Selectmen. CCB
TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
MAY 29, 2008
Selectboard Present: Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague
Mr. Sawyer called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with eleven people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
JOHN and SHIRLEY FROST: Due to family issues, Mrs. Frost would like to temporarily site a mobile home on her son John Frost’s property off the Valley Road. John Frost has over two acres of land with 355-feet of frontage and a new leach field that went in four years ago. There was discussion relative to concerns about keeping the older residents in town. In conclusion, the Selectboard felt that Shirley Frost and John Frost should present their Site Plans to the Planning Board during their meeting on June 10thth to ask for a Special Exception. Since timing is an important issue this could possibly be finalized on July 16th. and then attend the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting on June 18.
ECUC, LLC. PROPERTY: Mr. Sawyer explained that the Selectboard is concerned with what is being done on this property. Bob Maynard, owner, advised that he leases the property but would like to stay in compliance with the Town regulations. He inspects the property periodically. They were supposed to build the pole barn but stopped after the poles were installed. There is a construction trailer and a lot of storage of materials on-site. Last week when Mr. Sawyer and Mrs. Mansouri viewed the property there appeared to be some buried material. Mr. Maynard said nothing was buried, it is just fill. Mrs. Mansouri read meeting minutes that outlined the conditions of the Permit for the 2.7 acre property. Mr. Farinoli advised that there no longer is propane on the property. Mr. Maynard noted that there no longer are batteries or oil there; only about one-third of the equipment remains. Mr. Farinoli owns the camper but he lives in one of the apartments. The pole barn exception permit expired therefore a new application will be needed to complete that. The Selectboard will check to see if the property is in the Wellhead Protection area. Following the discussion, Mr. Sawyer advised that the Selectboard would like to see the property cleaned-up and that the stored items be placed under-cover. At this time no time limit will be imposed but they would like to see some progress. Mr. Maynard will talk to the company about cleaning up and keeping the area neater.
MARCH HILL ROAD: Jim Terrell, Road Agent, and Warren Stevens, engineer with M & W Soils, discussed options to resolve the March Hill wash-out. They have not yet received a decision from the State on the proposed bridge. Mr. Stevens advised that the Town can rebuild the retaining wall; he outlined options. The cost for rebuilding would be approximately $60,000 plus excavation costs because the project is so massive. Mr. Terrell talked to the abutters who do not have a problem with the Town going outside their right-of-way. The Selectboard approved having Jim Terrell obtain some estimates. Mr. Stevens will put together the application for the Wetlands Permit.
LAVERNE HORNE PROPERTY: Laverne Horne was not in attendance. Mrs. Mansouri read meeting minutes when this property was discussed. Originally the permit was for minor repairs and the sale of one or two vehicles. A Special Exception was not granted for another building on the property that is now rented and being used for vehicle repairs. Other issues include the number of vehicles on the site and that they were not given permission to buy and sell vehicles.
Selectboard Meeting – May 29, 2008 – Page 2
Mr. Aldrich moved to table this item because Laverne Horne did not attend this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
ALAN RHODES: Mr. Rhodes received his tax bill and expressed concern with the fact that the amount nearly doubled. There have been no significant improvements therefore he would like an explanation of what it is based on. He had no advance notice of any changes and the assessors did not contact him about looking at the property. Mr. Sawyer noted that the Selectboard would have the office manager pull the property records and contact Avitar for an explanation of the assessment. Mr. Rhodes was advised that he could file for an Abatement.
KATHY MONAHAN – SIDEWALK SALE: Ms. Monahan was not in attendance. Mr. Sawyer reported that Ms. Monahan would like to have a sidewalk sale in front of her store utilizing two parking spaces on June 13, 14, and 15. She would also like to put a tent over it.
Mr. Aldrich moved to have Ms. Monahan attend the next meeting to be held on Wednesday, June 4th, 2008, at 7:30 PM. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
NEXT SELECTBOARD MEETING: Mr. Aldrich moved to have the next Selectboard meeting on Wednesday, June 4th, 2008, at 7:30 PM. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $403,497.68. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
It was noted that $390,125.33 of the above amount is a monthly payment to the Fall Mountain Region School District.
PAYROLL: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending May 31, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $17,736.62 or net wages in the amount of $9,561.16. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,306.93. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
TRANSFER OF FUNDS: Mr. Aldrich moved to authorize the Treasurer to transfer $275,000.00 from the Walpole MBIA to the Savings Bank of Walpole Town account and to authorize the Chairperson to sign the document. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – MAY 22, 2008: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the May 22, 2008, Selectboard meeting as printed. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer in favor, the motion was approved. Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this meeting.
DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings: 1) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners meeting of May 27, 2008; 2) Cemetery Committee Report – May 9, 2008; and 3) SEA Meeting Minutes – Old Keene Road Bridge – May 23, 2008.
Selectboard Meeting – May 29, 2008 – Page 3
BUILDING PERMIT:
WILLIAM & KRISTEN WHITON – MAP 003-038-003: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-022 for William & Kristen Whiton to construct a 36’ x 12’ shed that will be attached to the existing garage on the County Road. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. All in favor, so voted.
OLD BUSINESS:
SAVINGS BANK OF WALPOLE – SIGNING OF SIGNATURE CARD: The Selectboard signed the signature card for the Savings Bank of Walpole for the new Playground Account at Whitcomb Park.
SWRPC – PAYMENT ISSUE: Mrs. Teague moved to table the Southwest Region Planning Commission payment issue for an additional $1,055.00. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
There being no other business, Mr. Sawyer declared this meeting adjourned. The time was 9:52 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
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Walpole Part of Community Conservation Partnership
Mel Schupack reports that our Conservation Commission, in conjunction with The Monadnock Conservancy, Southwest Regional Planning Commission, UNH Cooperative Extension, Antioch New England Institute, and the Center for Land Conservation Assistance is launching a 6 to 8 month long effort to deal with conservation issues for our town. Walpole is one of 5 towns chosen for this initial effort called The Community Conservation Partnership. Most of the expenses are covered by grants obtained by the Monadnock Conservancy for this project.
"We will," Mel says, "be planning a series of educational efforts to start a discussion about the role of conservation for the future of Walpole. Your Conservation Commission has already done a Wetlands Survey, a Natural Resource Inventory, a long-term conservation plan and a study and map of the entire town showing the natural resource land values of every parcel in town. It is time to reach out to the townspeople to have them learn about these tools and to participate in what they feel might be important to protect for the future."
The initiative will include a work group to develop the initial efforts with a series of educational efforts and perhaps hold a public forum in the fall.
After several task force meetings it was decided that public education was the first priority. For this we will be having a series of educational hikes to show examples of protected and conservation land to townspeople. These will be held during this summer and fall.
We need to find ways to reach out to as many people in town as possible. If you want more information you can contact Mel Schupack (603-756-9389 or melschupack@aya.yale.edu) and also contact Peter Throop at the Monadnock Conservancy 603-357-0600 or Pete@monadnockconservancy.org.
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First 2008 Cruise Night at Real Twist This Sunday
6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Gail Davis reports that the Real Twist Ice Cream stand in Walpole, NH will hold its next Classic Car Cruise Night on Sunday, June 15th, from 6-9PM. It’s a chance for the whole family to enjoy a Sunday evening looking at old and antique cars while enjoying pizza, hot dogs and ice cream. There will be live music by Vinnie Dibernardo. Anyone who brings his classic car to show will get a free regular sized sundae. Everyone visiting can get free jimmies, diptop or flavorburst with any cup or cone. Make sure to enter the drawing for free Pizza, ice cream or DVD’s!
The Real Twist is located next to Real to Reel Video at the North Meadow Plaza in Walpole. It is open noon – 9PM, seven days a week. Enjoy your ice cream outside, in the lovely garden, or under the porch.
Future 2008 Season Cruise Nights are scheduled for July 13th, August 10th and September 7th. See you there!
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Old Home Days Displays on the Common
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Walpole Old Home Days Planning Committee member Kathy Hanks has arranged for nearly 30 displays by town and area organizations on the Common on Saturday, June 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Organizations and types of booths lined up so far are...
Walpole Historical Society -- Information, genealogy
Walpole Recycling Action Program -- Information
Walpole Community Grange -- Pie baking contest, pie and coffee
Walpole Old Home Days Committee -- Water, souvenirs, totes, hamburgers, fried dough and information
Walpole Village School -- Potato bar, muffins, coffee and hot chocolate
Walpole Parent Teachers -- Root beer floats
Walpole Conservation Commission -- Educational
Gary Speed -- Preserved animal display
Artisan Coop -- Artisan display
Child and Family Services -- Educational
Boy Scout Troop 299 -- Hot dogs, soda, water
Pinnacle View 4-H Club -- Lemonade, ices, and petting zoo
Hubbard Farms -- Educational, baby chicks
Organic Valley Farm -- Educational giveaways
Hooper Institute -- Information
Life Fellowship Foursquare Church -- Information and free desserts
Congregational Church -- Chicken BBQ tickets for June 29
Charles Phillips -- Play BUX game
Monadnock Conservatory -- Information
Walpole Fire Department -- Firefighters' challenge and fire safety trailer
Hooper Hill Hoppers -- Reffle tickets
American Legion Auxiliary -- Hot dogs and Chicken
The Pink Sox: Tiffany, Patty and Chris Neal -- Bake sale, T-shoirts and face painting for breast cancer
David's House (Kirsty Patch) -- Food, subs, sausage, and meatballs
TriVillage Energy -- Solar cooking
Personal Ponies -- Information on companion ponies
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Old Home Days Talent Show Seeking Entrants!
Classes for Adults and Children
Trina Carmody, Chairperson of the Old Home Days Talent Show, is seeking adult and children's entries in the show set for 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 27. She also needs a few more judges. Contact Trina at 756-3836 or at tcarmody@sau60.org. CCB
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June 22 Opening Concert on the Common; Complimentary Food!
Sponsored by the Savings Bank of Walpole
Kathy Hanks reports that the Savings Bank of Walpole, corporate sponsors of the annual Sunday evening concerts on the Common, will this year kick off the first concert with complimentary hotdogs at the Town Hall between 5:00 and 6:45 p.m. on Sunday, June 22. The concert begins at 7:00. Also the Congregational Church, across the Common, will be serving pie AND ice cream from the Walpole Creamery. Sounds like a great way to begin the summer! CCB
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Walpole Planning Board Agenda for Tomorrow Evening
7:00 p.m. at Town Hall--New, Earlier Start Time
Ed. Note: Thanks to Pam Aslinger, here's the agenda for tomorrow night. CCB
PLANNING BOARD MEETING Walpole, NH 03608
AGENDA - Tuesday, June 10, 2008 - 7:00pm - Town Hall
I. Open Meeting
A. Roll Call - Designate Alternates
B. Approve minutes from 5/13/08 and 5/27/08 work session
II. Review Applications Submitted: Accept or Reject or Delay before Public Hearing
A. Hicks Machine Inc. Expedited Site Plan Review located at 65 Maplewood Circle, Map 23, Lot 14 in the Industrial district. The minor proposal is for a 2, 464 sq. ft. addition to the SE rearside of the existing building and removal of one small shed. Waivers need accepting.
B. Etka Patel/No. Walpole Realty Trust - Site Plan Review located at 988 Main St. (Rte. 12) in N. Walpole, Map 28, Lot 154 in the Residential district. Proposal converts former Mr. G’s Warehouse to 11, 000 sq. ft. Convenience Store with 1-bedroom employee apartment. Lot is .75 ac with 390 ft. of frontage on Main St. (pending approval from zoning) Waivers need accepting.
III. Close Meeting/Open Public Hearings, close hearings/re-open meeting on above
IV. Action on applications submitted: Approve - Disapprove - Delay
A. Hicks Machine - Expedited Site Plan Review
B. Etka Patel/No. Walpole Realty Trust - Site Plan Review
V. Close Meeting/Open Public Hearing on Draft Amendment to Site Plan Review Regs.
Purpose: Request building design information to aid in making informed decisions.
Ammend: Section VII Submission Requirements, B. Plat Submission Items
Add new: “27. The location, type and design of all buildings including an elevation view or photograph indicating their height, width and surface treatment.”
Ammend: Appendix A Site Plan Review Checklist, B. Plat Submission Items
Add new: “27. Location, type and design of buildings, elevation view or photograph showing dimensions and surface treatment.
VI. Action on Amendment - Delay or Revise or Adopt
VII. Unfinished Business: Pending Applications
A. Chamberlain Machine - Revision to approved plans - Minor reduction of building size, parking lot and reduced lighting. Minor reconfiguration of Huntington Lane to improve protective buffer and coordinate with Bensonwood’s future proposal.
B. Griswold Place - Revision to approved plans - Minor reduction of parking lot size, increased green space with added landscaping, plus an improvement to “lane”.
VIII. New Business: Preliminary Conceptual Consultations
A. Lawrence Assoc./Virginia Foote - Lot Line Adjustment in North Walpole between Wheeler and Hill on Hillcrest Rd. to settle a boundary dispute.
B. Mrs. Shirley Frost - Possible Minor 2 Lot subdivision, lacking proper frontage requiring a variance located off Valley Rd. in rural ag district.
C. Other - none other scheduled as of agenda posting - could change
IX. Communications and Miscellaneous
A. Master Plan Update - Review status, set hearings for WCC documents, schedule w/s 6/24
B. Fees increase request
X. Close Meeting - next regular meeting 7/8/2008 at 7:00pm
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Barring Heavy Trucks from Upper Walpole Road
Petition Drive for After the New Bridge Opens
Walpole Petitioners Seek to Reduce Truck Traffic
By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer
John and Connie McGuirk of Upper Walpole Road, with aid and support from John’s brother Paul McGuirk, are circulating petitions to ask the New Hampshire Department of Transportation to bar heavy truck traffic from Upper Walpole Road after the new Rt. 123 bridge is completed over the Cold River later this year.
John and Connie McGuirk are seeking signatures of all Upper Walpole Road residents, and Paul McGuirk is circulating petitions for signatures of other town residents that support their concerns.
“It may be a long shot to get the DOT to act, but we think it’s necessary to make the effort,” Paul McGuirk noted last week. “The added heavy truck traffic on Upper Walpole Road in the past two plus years has been very hard on the residents and on the road.”
Since the collapse of the Rt. 123 Cold River Bridge in the flood of October 2005, all Rt. 123 traffic has been diverted to Upper Walpole Road, including dozens of heavy trucks each day. Residents of the road have complained from the beginning about the increased traffic and noise of the diversion.
Walpole residents that would like to sign the petitions should telephone John or Connie McGuirk at 445-5441 or Paul McGuirk at 756-2864.
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Kreek Starts Portrait Practice
6-3-08
Passionate for Portraits
By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer
Walpole’s Cassandra Kreek is sketching out a summer job—maybe a professional career—with portraits of individuals, couples and even their houses and pets in pencil and paint.
“Most people think of portraits as expensive oil paintings by and for the wealthy,” Kreek observed earlier this week. “But I like to think of my work as high quality art that is more accessible, for everyone. Portraits are for people who want a lasting memory, not just for those that are into art for art’s sake.”
Kreek, 19, who just finished her second year at St. John’s College in Annapolis, MD, has been doing portraits of people for several years with extensive tutelage by renowned artist Peter Granucci of Gilsum. “I remember sketching in class at Fall Mountain High School in one notebook while taking class notes in another,” says Kreek. “And,” she added, “I can remember
Cassandra Kreek showing a protrait of former Fall Mountain High School Principal Tom Ferenc and his wife. Chuck Bingaman photo.
when my mom first handed me a box of crayons. I took out a big red one and started to work! It was just something I wanted to do. But I feel like I learned everything about portraiture from Peter.”
While most of Kreek’s portraiture to date has been black pencil on paper, she also does colored pencil work and even oil paintings. Most of the time she works from photographs of her subjects because, she says, “people really don’t want to sit for 4 to 20 hours!” She also notes that often she works from several photos of the same subject to see it from different perspectives and in different lighting situations.
Kreek describes her portrait style as “very realistic. I look for character in faces and really create a highly detailed view. I love to concentrate on the details that make someone unique without making it a caricature. I concentrate on what’s important without exaggerating it.”
Granucci noted, “Cassandra was one of my top students among hundreds I’ve had. She has the ability to stick to it, to maintain her focus until the piece is completely finished…something that separates the professional artist from the amateur.” He added, “Cassandra has the skill to really capture the character of her subjects.”
Why portraits at all when inexpensive digital photography makes shooting pictures so easy and quick? Kreek says, “Most photos are far from perfect and have to deal with multiple light sources. In doing a portrait I can control the light sources, take time with the details, and really try to capture the personal qualities of the person. And I can put people in any environment, not just the one presented by the photo opportunity.”
Kreek’s portraits cost anywhere from $60 to two or three times that amount depending on the number of characters in them, the size of the work requested and the time she estimates the work will take. People who would like to explore the possibility of a Cassandra Kreek portrait can telephone her at 603-756-4381 or email her at Cassandra.kreek@sjca.edu.
How have Kreek’s portrait subjects reacted so far to her wok? “Most people,” she says, “are pretty excited about the results!”
--30--
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Old Home Days Pet Show Classes Announced
Start Planning Now for One of the Great Events of the Weekend!
Old Home Days Pet Show and Competition Chair Myra Mansouri has announced the competitive classes for the Saturday, June 28 event.
Adult (Owner) Classes will be oldest pet, best pet costume, greatest owner/pet similarity and most enthusiastic pet owner.
Children (Owner/Entrant) Classes will be largest pet, smallest pet, longest tail, shortest tail, cutest, best pet costume, and most unusual pet.
In addition, the expert judges, Terry Smith and Laura Honey, will give the "Roxy Award" for the pet that they feel is most obedient and most attuned to or close-knit with its owner. This award is in honor of Tara Sad's former pet dog, Roxy, who exemplified those traits with Tara. CCB
P.S. This is another in the series of Old Home Days Announcements that will occur frequently on The Walpolean between now and Old Home Days. And, while we're on the subject, how about the terrific Old Home Days artwork created by Annette Grenier that is reproduced below?? It'll be on the Old Home Days T-shirts to be available in a couple of weeks.
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Walpole Artisans Shop Grand Opening
Ed. Note: Chris Sherwin sends the following notice for the Walpole Artisans Cooperative. CCB
Walpole Artisans Grand Opening
The Walpole Artisans, Inc. is proud to announce the Grand Opening of their new Cooperative Gallery at 52 Main Street in downtown Walpole, NH, on Father's Day weekend. Friday, June 13 through Sunday, June 15th, the Artisans will be featuring artist demonstrations, presenting raffle give-aways with artisan-produced prizes, serving refreshments, and welcoming supporting memberships.
The Cooperative is excited to have their gallery in Walpole, NH, a town that has become a destination for tourists in recent years with the addition of new restaurants and shops. The Walpole Artisans are already known for their Annual Studio Tour that takes place on Thanksgiving weekend and the first weekend in December in town and throughout the local community. The Cooperative plans to hold periodic classes by the Artisans, and will feature 'Artist of the Month' opportunities throughout the year. The Artisans are looking forward to the opportunity to market their products locally as well as give the community the ability to purchase locally crafted products. Home furnishings, wedding gifts, and more can all be found at the Cooperative! It is the mission of The Walpole Artisans to provide opportunities for local and regional artisans to promote and market their work, and to provide education and information to both artisans and the community about the arts.
The Walpole Artisan Cooperative now offers a wide variety of products showcasing a talented group of local artists who specialize in many different mediums. Artwork is available in a variety of two and three dimensional media such as painting, photography, prints, handmade cards and invitations, decorative and functional woodworking, ceramics, blown glass, found object art, jewelry, dolls, metal sculpture, out of print books, and more!
The Walpole Artisans Cooperative is now open from Wednesday –Saturday, 11am-6pm, and Sunday 11am-3pm. New Members will be accepted through a juried process. Interested artisans should contact the Cooperative at (603) 756-3020 or stop in during business hours, to pick up an application. We are located at 52 Main Street, Walpole, NH.
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Walpole Old Home Days 5K Race on Saturday, June 28
Part of Fantastic Old Home Days Celebration
Ed. Note: This is the first of nearly daily announcements to run from now until Old Homes Days in Walpole on the last weekend of this month. We hope you'll check out each entry and mark your calenders for the events that will be of interest to you. Remember, the Old Home Days Celebration runs from Wednesday evening, June 25 to Sunday evening June 29, and there are events and opportunities for everyone! Make your plans now and invite your friends, relatives and former Walpole acquaintances back for the weekend. CCB
Walpole Old Home Days 5K Road Race
Start training now for the 2008 Walpole Old Home Days 5K Road Race will be held on Saturday, June 28th. Registration will be on the Walpole Town Common from 7:30 – 8:15 am and the race will begin at 8:30 am. Entry fee is $10 for pre-registration by June 25th, and $12 for post-entry or day of the race registration. T-shirts will be given to the first 50 runners to register. Awards will be given to the top finishers in each age category, and refreshments will be available after the race. A fun run around the Town Common (approximately ½ mile) will also be open to children aged 12 and under. For further race information, contact Jim Baucom at 756-4206 or jamesbaucom@comcast.net.
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Selectmen's Minutes from May 22
TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
MAY 22, 2008
Selectboard Present: Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, (Absent: Jamie Teague)
Mr. Sawyer called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with five people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
RED SMITH – REF: PLAYGROUND BEHIND ST. JOHN’S CHURCH: Red Smith talked about the debris that people leave behind after a ballgame in the playground behind St. John’s Church. In addition, youngsters play on the ramp and stairs of the church, climb up the stones and climb the stairs to the apartment; someone is going to get hurt. He requested that the coaches, teams, parents and youngsters be instructed to stay off the church property and to clean up after themselves. The Selectboard agreed that this needs to be resolved therefore they will send a letter to the person in charge; a copy will be sent to Red Smith.
FRANCIS PALMIERI – REF: 65 DEARBORN CIRCLE: Jonathan Palmieri spoke for the family; they have nothing to hide. With reference to the May 08, 2008, meeting minutes he asked that the word “apartment” be deleted as it is not an apartment but rather an “addition” over the garage with a bathroom. It is all on one foundation as required by the Town regulations. Mr. Palmieri displayed pictures of the construction.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $26,987.97. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
PAYROLL: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending May 17, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $14,398.85 or net wages in the amount of $6,364.32. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,447.29. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
MINUTES:
SELECTMEN’S MEETING – May 15, 2008: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the May 15, 2008, Selectboard meeting as printed. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Elaine Moore clarified the following: Page 2 – Selectboard’s Office-Work Week-4 Days – the office will continue to be open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM five days a week. The summer schedule for the four work days will be on a rotation basis. All in favor, so voted.
DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners meeting of May 20, 2008.
REFUNDS:
LEON JONES, III – MAP 002-009-001: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for 2007 Property Taxes in the amount of $1,041.61 (Principal $1,019.00 plus Interest $22.61) for Leon Jones, III. This is the result of changes made by Avitar. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
Selectboard Meeting – May 22, 2008 – Page 2
PETER BERG – MAP 011-033-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for 2007 Property Taxes in the amount of $2,412.95 (Principal $2,353.00 plus Interest $59.95) for Peter Berg. This is the result of changes made by Avitar. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
PETER BERG – MAP 011-037-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for 2007 Property Taxes in the amount of $396.86 (Principal $387.00 plus Interest $9.86) for Peter Berg. This is the result of changes made by Avitar. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
PETER BERG – MAP 013-050-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for 2007 Property Taxes in the amount of $95.36 (Principal $93.00 plus Interest $2.36) for Peter Berg. This is the result of changes made by Avitar. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
BUILDING PERMITS:
JOSEPH and BARBARA JACKSON – MAP 011-051-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-017 for Joseph and Barbara Jackson to construct a 28’ x 20’ storage shed on March Hill Road. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
CRAIG and JAMIE DAY – MAP 004-019-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-018 for Craig and Jamie Day to construct a 12’ x 16’ deck on the Old Keene Road. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
ROBERT and STACY GAY – MAP 015-029-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-019 for Robert and Stacy Gay to construct a 28’ x 30’ garage with a 13’ x 12’ mud room on the Alstead Center Road. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
CHAMBERLAIN MACHINE, INC.: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-020 for Chamberlain Machine, Inc. to construct a 234’ x 240’ Commercial Building on Huntington Lane subject to the $500 payment for water. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
MARY LORI FRANDINO – MAP 010-048-001: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-021 for Mary Lori Frandino to construct a 20’ x 17’2” addition to the existing garage on School Street. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):
BOY SCOUT TROOP No. 299: Joshua Makinen explained that Boy Scout Troop No. 299 would like to place a “geo cache” on the Mill Pond Trail about 10’ to 20’ away from the main trail. A “geo cache” is the hikers’ version of informational-type devices being used in vehicles. He displayed one to those in attendance. Mr. Sawyer felt the Conservation Commission should be alerted to the fact that they will be doing this.
Mr. Aldrich moved to allow Boy Scout Troop No. 299 to install a geo cache in the vicinity of the Mill Pond Trail. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
OLD BUSINESS:
RISE ENGINEERING: A bill was received from Rise Engineering as a ladder was needed to install some of the energy light units that were too high to reach from a standard ladder.
Mr. Sawyer moved to refer this bill in the amount of $235.00 from Transworld Systems to the Tri-Village Energy Committee. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. All in favor, so voted.
Selectboard Meeting – May 22, 2008 – Page 3
OLD KEENE BRIDGE: Mr. Sawyer will be in the Town Hall tomorrow at 9:00 AM to sign some paperwork for the Old Keene Bridge.
NEW BUSINESS:
ECUC PROPERTY – MAP 012-016-000: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to request that the owner of the ECUC property, off Main Street, attend a meeting in the near future to explain what they are doing there and why they are not complying with the Town regulations.
LAVERNE HORNE PROPERTY – MAP 012-015-000: Myra Mansouri and Sheldon Sawyer visited this property today. There are 50 to 60 vehicles there. The Selectboard is requesting that Laverne Horne attend a meeting in the near future to discuss the operation on that property.
FOREST FIRE WARDEN: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a State of New Hampshire Re-Appointment document announcing that William Houghton has been re-appointed as the Forest Fire Warden for the Town of Walpole until December 31, 2009.
SWRPC – PAYMENT ISSUE: A letter was received from the Southwest Region Planning Commission acknowledging a partial payment from the Town for dues in the amount of $3,000 however, based on the Town’s per capita, the annual dues billed were $4,055. Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich agreed to put this on-hold until a full Board is present.
BLOCK GRANT AID: The Selectboard received a notice from the State of New Hampshire that their Highway Block Grant Aid has been reduced by approximately $500.00.
SAVINGS BANK OF WALPOLE: Myra Mansouri was contacted by the Savings Bank of Walpole as they are requesting that a signature card be signed by two of the Selectboard for the new Recreation Playground account. Mrs. Mansouri will obtain the card tomorrow.
OLD FIRE STATION: Mr. Sawyer asked Elaine Moore to obtain an estimate for scraping and painting the old “old” Fire Station as it should be included in the next budget.
DOG EXCREMENT: There was discussion relative to dog excrement not being picked-up by their owners on Town properties especially on the Common. The Selectboard agreed that two signs, worded appropriately, should be ordered and placed at each end of the Common.
TOWN HALL PROPERTY - TREES: Mr. Sawyer advised that one tree on the Town Hall lawn needs to be taken down and replaced. An estimate will be obtained.
Mrs. Mansouri noted that the branches on the big tree on the corner of the Town Hall property are touching the Town Hall and should be cut back.
TOWN HALL FLOWER PLANTING: Mr. Aldrich moved to give $200.00 to the 4-H group that did the flower planting by the Town Hall to cover their expenses. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
CODING OF BILLS: The Selectboard approved having a memo sent to all Department Heads to remind them that all bills need to be coded correctly.
Selectboard Meeting – May 22, 2008 – Page 4
AUDITORS: The Selectboard asked Elaine Moore to contact the Auditors to see when they will be available to do the Town’s audit.
LETTER TO BE SIGNED:
PETER BERG – ABATEMENT REQUESTS: Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the letter to Peter Berg to deny Abatement requests for seven properties. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted.
Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted. The time was 8:56 PM.
The Selectboard entered into a meeting as the Trustees of Hooper Fund.
TRUSTEES OF HOOPER FUND MEETING
Mr. Sawyer called the meeting of the Trustees of the Hooper Fund to order at 8:58 PM.
SIDEWALK: The Trustees of the Hooper Fund acknowledged receipt of a supplemental bill in the amount of $100.00 in conjunction with the sidewalk project because of the fact that an unexpected water line that runs under it needs to be pulled-up. The Trustees agreed to put this on-hold until additional information can be obtained.
There being no other business, Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. All in favor, so voted. The time was 9:06 PM.
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May 27 Planning Board Working Session Minutes
Ed. Note: Thanks to secretary Pam Aslinger, here are the minutes of the May 27 Planning Board "working session." Although few members of the public attend, these are very important meetings for the future of Walpole. CCB
PLANNING BOARD
Walpole, NH 03608
Work Session Tuesday May 27, 2008, 7:00pm Town Hall Basement
Minutes
Present: Jeff Miller, Bob Miller, Ben Daviss, Shane O’Keefe, Dave DeCoste, Fred Dill, Donn Lounsbury, Mel Schupack, Bob Jasse, Mary Lou Montgomery
Recording: Pamela Aslinger, Secretary
These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the June 8, 2008 meeting for corrections.
Meeting opened at 7:10pm
Purpose of the meeting was to review final drafts of the goals and objectives and vision statement prepared over the last several months. The committee also reviewed for consideration into the Master Plan the “Comparative Land Values of Natural Resources for Walpole, NH 11/2007” and “Town-Wide Conservation Plan”, two documents prepared by SWRPC for the Conservation Commission. And to review a “Final map and flyer” prepared by the Community Conservation Partnership with the Monadnock Conservancy.
Mr. Bob Jasse announced that Alyson’s Orchard has been picked Best of NH 2008 by NH magazine’s editor for best Agricultural Experience. He praised the Town for the opportunities he has been given to develop his much cherished and successful endeavors. He stressed the need by the Master Planners to preserve Walpole’s character, to keep restrictions in balance, favoring creative and innovative land uses helping to promote Walpole but at the same time protecting it’s unique character. He has great hopes that what he has created will continue to contribute to Walpole for many years to come and can remain as a viable agricultural business. Attendees appreciate Mr. Jasse’s contributions adding to the face of Walpole as well as his comments and participation in the planning process.
Jeff Miller and Ben Daviss called for comments on the goals and objectives with Mr. Daviss compiling the notes for the final draft to be reviewed by SWRPC.
- Goal #1 add prior 2000 wording to #8 in order to reflect the survey wants. (pg. 26 Goal 4, #5)
- Discussed 4,5,6,7, 11 as being forms of cluster housing, all agreeing to eliminate 7 and 11 but leaving the rest in order to comply with State Law initiatives to address affordable housing, innovative land use and conserve natural features while allowing for future density based development initiatives.
- Goal #2 discussed defining “sprawl”, add “and home based businesses” to #5.
- Goal #3, #4, #5 no changes.
- Implementation and Administration - delete last two, they are duplicated.
- Discussion about Public Hearing timeframe for the July meeting once SWRPC has made their comments and review. Final revision needs to be presented to the Planning Board. Once adopted both Goals and Objectives and Vision Statement will be added to the Master Plan as amendments 2008. It was suggested SWRPC draft a new land use section based on these two committee documents. Mr. Daviss will set up a meeting with them in a week or so.
The Vision Statement was lightly gone over since it had been the focus at the prior work session.
- Ben presented the final revisions and asked for help on how to address (without sounding negative) - the impact of special exceptions in the rural agricultural districts that are residentially or agriculturally based. Attendees discussed several areas in Town that could be reconsidered for zoning changes to reflect an influx of industrial or commercial uses that have changed their character away from rural agricultural especially if they have the infrastructure such as highways,
power, sewer and water. Also how to protect rural agriculturally used lands from inappropriate
Walpole Planning Board Work Session Minutes 5/27/08 pg. 2
industrial and commercial uses by incorporating certain wording into the vision statement. A suggestion was made to review all past and present special exceptions and variances to glean a pattern of development, placing the task of doing so in the “Implementation” section and to place certain standards on special exceptions, such as whether infrastructure is present to allow for a large-scale impact industrial operation. Also to implement a frequent review, every 2-3 years to monitor sites for non-compliance with the need for stronger enforcement, such as a Town Administrator that would oversee projects. Consider wording to the effect of “allowed by special exception if it conforms with specifically the land use section of the Master Plan” to amend the zoning ordinance.
- Discussed the changing face of agriculture from animal based to horticultural based, due to New England climate vs. southeastern states.
- Discussed importance of variable density allowances to prevent farms from being carved up and sold as house lots as well as other large tracts of land.
- Discussed concept of keeping Walpole’s small town character by not growing it to more than 3500 persons.
- Discussed making provisions for future generations to be able to live and work in Walpole by economic diversity and less expensive housing.
Attendees reviewed copies of the two Conservation Commission’s reports agreeing to set a public hearing in July for their adoption. The Monadnock Conservancy project was tabled until it can be completed at the suggestion of Mary Lou. Mel will ask Peter Palmiotto if he can make a brief presentation at the Public Hearing, as Jeff suggested. And Mel reminded everyone about the Conservation Commission’s Old Home Days booth, to stop by for a look at newly updated maps and materials.
Meeting closed at 8:45pm
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