Raymond News

Sports Director at WMUR‐TV Jamie Staton and Miss New Hampshire 2012 Megan Lyman will co-host the event which features 28 outstanding young women from across the state competing for the title of Miss New Hampshire 2013. The winner will receive $10,000 in scholarships, represent the state at ceremonial functions and at Miss America which is returning to Atlantic City in September.

"We are pleased to announce the continued tradition of the Miss New
Hampshire Scholarship Competition,” stated President and Executive Director of the Miss New Hampshire Organization, Brenda Keith. “Our organization empowers young women by recognizing their levels of excellence in the areas of scholastic achievement, performing arts, healthy living, leadership and community involvement.”

The public has the unique opportunity to vote for two contestants they
would like to see included among the semi-finalists and possibly become
Miss New Hampshire 2013. Votes can be cast through the organizations web site www.missnh.org or on their Facebook page facebook.com/MissNH.

A panel of five judges, including two New Hampshire business leaders, Lucy Gappens of Clear Channel Radio & Chuck Rolecek a successful businessman and restauranteur, will determine ten contestants who earn the greatest number of points in the five phases of preliminary competition (Private Interview, Lifestyle & Fitness in Swimsuit, Evening Wear, Talent and On-Stage Question competitions.)

The two contestants gathering the largest number of public votes will join them for a Top 12 at the start of the final show on the 27th. If a contestant earning the largest number of votes through the public voting is among the ten earning a place as a result of the Panel of Judges scores, then the contestant receiving the next largest number of points from the Judges will be added to the list of semifinalists. Contestants are being encouraged to actively seek votes from friends, neighbors, and the general public through the media and social networks. Voting will be open until April 23rd.

Raymond Chamber's Business of the Year Announcement
Submitted by Maura Mele - 4-4-13

The Greater Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Installation Dinner and Business of the Year award ceremony at the Tuckaway Tavern Restaurant in Raymond on Wednesday, March 27th. Over 40 members and their guests enjoyed a fabulous dinner.

The newly installed officers were: Chamber President, Jennifer Sciaudone of People's United Bank; President-Elect, Dennis Lydon of Aggregate Industries; Treasurer, Ryder Audette of Sweatshirts Etc.; Secretary, Aron Tucker of Wal-Mart Distribution Center; Directors, Judy Williams of Judy Williams Real Estate, Lori Shookus of Shookus Special Tools, Inc., Dick Trask of New England Asset Advisors, Dave Turcotte of Riverbend Realty, James Marcheterre of Simply Wireless, LLC., and Kathy Campbell of Kountry Hair Design.

This year's Small Business of the Year Award was presented to Mark Desrochers of Jambs Jewelry . Mark has shown his commitment to this community through his sponsorship of the Raymond Little League, donations to Rockingham Community Action, contributions to local area charities, organizations, the Raymond School system, and community fundraising events.

The Business of the Year for over 6 employees was presented to Arlene French of Elliot Pediatrics and Primary Care at Raymond. Elliot Pediatrics and Primary Care has served the community since 2001. They continually support the community by having their employees speak at the schools regarding health issues, sponsoring the David Welch Blood Drive for the past 11 years, and representing the Raymond Business Leadership, Career Day, Raymond High School Health Fair, Read Across American Program, and the list goes on. Elliot Pediatrics and Primary Care has grown with this community and they are proud to be in Raymond.

Congratulations to the winners and to all who were nominated!

Raymond Recount Results on Article 22 and Ethics Write-In Seat
By Cheryl Killam 3-25-13

Two recounts were requested, Article 22 seeking $18K for the Historical Society Depot repairs which lost by 12 votes, 451 no to 439 yes, and the write-in candidate for the three year seat on the Raymond Ethics board.

Article 22 gained only 5 yes votes, it needed 12 to win, the article still failed with a total of 454 No’s to 447 Yes’s.

The Ethics Write-in candidates with the most votes were Jack Barnes with 34 votes against Cheryl Killam with 33 votes.

Ex-selectman Lee Weldy, sitting as a Barnes observer, challenged a ballot with “Kilham” written on it, saying it was not intended for Killam.

Selectmen Wayne Welch, Greg Bemis and Peter Buckingham along with Town Clerk Sharon Walls all voted Yes, indicating that it was a vote intended for Killam while Selectmen Frank Bourque and Bill Hoitt and Moderator Kathleen Hoelzel voted No. The final recount board vote of 4 Yes's to 3 No's included the vote for Killam.

At the end of the recount on Friday March 22, Cheryl Killam won with 37 votes to Jack Barnes 35 votes. Killam gained four votes while Barnes gained one vote. There is a five day appeal period until Wednesday March 27 at 5 pm.

In the interest of full disclosure, Cheryl Killam is the owner of Raymond Area News.

Raymond Woman Rolls Vehicle On Route 101 Exeter And Is Ejected - 3-18-2013

On Monday, March 18, 2013 at approximately 11:12 a.m. Troopers from the Troop A Barracks in Epping were called to respond to a report of a serious motor vehicle crash on Route 101 in the area of Exit 10. It was reported that a vehicle had rolled over and an occupant had been ejected.

Based on the initial on scene investigaton it appears that a 2005 Toyota Corolla being operated by Ruth CHARLAND,age 66, of Raymond, New Hampshire was heading eastbound when the operator swerved to avoid another vehicle that had entered the lane ahead of it. CHARLAND lost control of her vehicle, crossed the center median, and the vehicle rolled. CHARLAND was ejected from her vehicle and she was transported to the Portsmouth Regional Hospital for serious injuries. The second vehicle involved, a 2007 Chevrolet Suburban, was operated by, Katherine SCOTT,age 24, of Epping, New Hampshire. SCOTT and her two children who were passengers at the time were transported to the Exeter Hospital for non life threatening injuries.

In does appear that speed may be a factor in this crash however the crash still remains under investigation. Any witnesses to this vehicles operation prior to the crash or anyone that may have further information related to this crash please contact Trooper Thomas Conlon at 603-223-8490 or email at Thomas.Conlon@dos.nh.gov.

The westbound side of Route 101 was shut down for about 45 minutes and traffic was re-routed off Exit 10. Assisting at the crash scene were members of the Exeter Fire and Rescue and Exeter Police Department. Auth: Sgt. Steven Wheeler, New Hampshire State Police, Troop A / Epping

Pine Acres Campground Up For Auction On April 1st

NOTICE OF MORTGAGEE'S SALE Pursuant to the power of sale contained in a certain mortgage given by Pine Acres RV Resort, LLC to Barclays Capital Real Estate Inc. dated August 2, 2006 and recorded with the Rockingham County Registry of Deeds in Book 4691, Page 1743, which mortgage was assigned to COMM 2006-C8 RV Park Master SPE, LLC by assignment dated January 16, 2013 and recorded with said Registry of Deeds in Book 5412, Page 1621, the undersigned will sell at public auction the Premises hereinafter described.

1.Description of Premises: Land and buildings in Raymond, Epping and Fremont, New Hampshire shown on Rockingham County Registry of Deeds Plan #D-32410. The Premises are more particularly described in the above-referenced mortgage.

2. Date, Time and Place of Sale: The sale shall take place on April 1, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. on the Premises.

3. Street, Town and County of the Premises: The Premises are known as 74 Freetown Road, Raymond, Rockingham County, New Hampshire.

Town of Raymond 250th Anniversary Cookbook
Submitted by 250th Anniversary Committee 2-22-13

The 250th Anniversary for the Town of Raymond is approaching in 2014. The 250th Committee has decided to again publish a Cookbook to help commemorate that event. A Cookbook Committee has been formed and we are seeking your FAVORITE RECIPE – the one that makes your family and friends’ mouth water.

The Cookbook Committee requests that all recipes be submitted on the form which is available on the Town’s Website under 250th Anniversary. Your recipe can be completed and submitted on line or the form will be available at the Dudley-Tucker Library and can either be returned there or mailed to:

Raymond 250th Anniversary Cookbook
10 Old Fremont Road
Raymond, NH 03077

The categories for your recipes are:

Appetizers, Beverages, Vegetable, Side dishes, Kids recipes, Brunch, Bread, Rolls, Allergy free items, Soups & Salads, Desserts, Pet Recipes, Main dishes, Cookies, Candy and Other.

During the 225th Anniversary a Cookbook was also published so we know there are GREAT COOKS out there. In the last 25 years many newcomers have moved into Town – we are certain many of you are in that GREAT COOK CATEGORY. We want and need your recipes.

We are very excited about the 250th Anniversary and hope all of you will help us make it special for the TOWN OF RAYMOND!
Peg Louis, Donna Wheeler, Linda Hoelzel, Pauline Gordon

Local Great Bay Power Lifting Team Breaks World Records
Submitted by Peter and Nona Hubbard 2-21-13

Haven Vermont— Seacoast Sports Clubs (“SSC”)-Great Bay, a multigenerational health and fitness facilities in the Seacoast, recently sent a five person team to theRevolution Power Lifting Syndicate Winter Classic Power Lifting meet hosted by Fair Haven Fitness in Fair Haven Vermont. The SSC-Great Bay team returned triumphant competing against lifters from all over the Northeast and bringing home five first place awards and multiple state and world records.

First place in the 220lb class division, Zach Bosen age 18 performed well in his first ever meet setting a state bench-press record with a lift of 235 pounds. Hailing from Stratham, Bosen was an all state lineman from the state champions Exeter Blue Hawks Football team. First place in the 181lb class, Joni Zfoska, age 18, set a world record bench press with a lifts of 325lbs . Zfoska is from Derry and this was only his second meet.

First place in the 165lb class division, 18-year old Tim Parrott also set a world record bench press at 325lbs and received the best lifter in the Bench Group. This is determined by formula based on body weight. He benched over 2 times body weight which in itself is quite a feat. Parrott, an all state wrestler from Pinkerton Academy resides in Derry.

In the 181lb class, Peter Hubbard, age 74, finished the meet with a 280lb bench press and captured first place breaking his previously set Revolution Power Lifting Syndicate record. SSC Great Bay team captain and coach, Hubbard is from Raymond and is ranked in the top three in the country for his weight and age group.

Standout in the 165lb class, Nona Hubbard, age 51, set three world records--a 250lb squat, 155 lb bench press and had her highest total ever with a 715 for three lifts. Nona is from Raymond and is ranked in the top 5 in the United States for her age and weight.

In addition, special recognition was given Nona who was awarded the coveted Sportsmanship award by the meet director. This award is given to the lifter who demonstrates not only great lifting but a willingness to help others and be an inspiration to all. A somewhat teary Nona said, "This award means more to me than all the firsts and records, I am honored.”

Seacoast Sports Club Facility to Hold First Ever Full Power Competition April 20

The team returns to training in preparation for the Vermont/New Hampshire State Championships which will be hosted and held at SSC-Great Bay in Newmarket on April 20, 2013. This is the first ever full power meet to be held in the Seacoast area and is open to all lifters. It is sanctioned by Revolution Power Lifting Syndicate and hosted by Seacoast Sports Clubs. Sponsored by Fitness First of Portsmouth, NH. Entry forms for the meet can be found on line at Revolution Power Lifting Syndicateor at any Seacoast Sports Club location or at Fitness First. The meet is limited to the first 60 lifters so get your entry in early.

Historic Dudley Road Bridge is Damaged
By Cheryl Killam 1-17-13

At approximately 11:20 pm Tuesday, January 15, Candia Police attempted to catch up to a vehicle that had come out of a business on route 27. The vehicle took a left onto Dudley Road and then lost control just past Critchett Road, hitting the bridge railing over the Lamprey River. At least a 10- to 15- foot section of the railing went into the river. David Ryan Rousseau of 8 Ledgewood Lane, Raymond and his passenger were taken to the hospital.

In May 2012, town officials met with David Scott from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NH-DOT) to get input on whether the state would repair the bridge. Scott explained the bridge has been “red-listed”, slated for decommissioning and to be demolished in 2014. Dudley Road crosses over the Lamprey River in Raymond between route 27 and route 107 near the Candia town line.

David and Kathleen Hoelzel have lived at 5 Dudley Road near the bridge since 1969. Their house dates to 1623. Kathleen Hoelzel said of the Jan. 15 crash, “I woke up to red and blue lights all over the place and it was scary not knowing what was going on.”

Hoelzel said we need to do something to preserve the Dudley Road bridge because it’s “the historic bridge in our town. It’s on Kings Grant Land, it has to be fixed to preserve it and because it’s a safety hazard.”

Hoelzel said Dudley Road was named after the Dudley family, who were among the first settlers in Raymond in the 1600s. All of the granite blocks in the walls on the roadsides and the granite used in constructing the bridge were mined from the back woods with buggies, horses and hand tools, she said.

Hoelzel’s biggest concern is that the Route 27 bridge was under water during the flooding in 2008 and 2010, leaving the Dudley Road bridge over the Lamprey River as the only way to get into and out of town. If that bridge is removed, some west side residents may be stranded if Route 27 floods again.

Raymond Man Accused Of Assaulting Infant
Raymond Police Dept. - 12-28-12

An investigation into alleged abuse unfolded this afternoon with an arrest of a local man. Information that an infant (approximately two months old) had sustained injuries over the course of the last several weeks, led to the examination of the infant at the Exeter Hospital. Upon examination by medical staff it was determined that the infant had suffered multiple fractures. It is alleged that these injuries occurred over the past several weeks at a Raymond residence. This afternoon Raymond Police Detectives, DCYF and the Rockingham County Attorney’s office developed enough supporting evidence to arrest:

Cavan G. Moore
7/18/1986
125 Route 27
Raymond, NH

Moore is currently charged with three counts of 2nd Degree Assault on a victim less than a year old. Moore is being held on $25,000 cash bail pending an arraignment in the Candia Circuit Court.

State Police Arrest Manchester Resident Driving 111 MPH In Raymond
NH State Police Media 12-12-12

Just after eleven o’clock Wednesday morning, the NH State Police Special Enforcement Unit arrested Felix Rivas Torres of Manchester for Reckless Driving. Mr. Rivas Torres, 21 years of age, was clocked by a State Police aircraft traveling at 111 MPH on Route 101 in Raymond. During this several hour aircraft detail, the State Police stopped 45 motorists which resulted in the issuance of 24 tickets and 21 warnings (7 of the 45 motorists were stopped for speeds at 85 MPH or higher).

The NH State Police regularly use aircraft during enforcement details to interdict elevated speed violations and other aggressive driving behaviors to include tailgating. This tool continues to achieve high interdiction rates concerning speeds that sometimes top 100 MPH. Aircraft details are routinely scheduled across this state on the main thoroughfares during commuter traffic periods, holiday peak travel times and other areas deemed potentially hazardous. In addition to speeding violations and other aggressive driving behaviors, State Troopers routinely make roadside arrests for crimes uncovered during motorist contacts.

This enforcement action is just one of many traffic enforcement initiatives which include 55/65 Speed Enforcement details, Safe Commute details, Seat Belt details, Crash Reduction details, DWI details, DWI Check Points, DUI - Drug details and a State Police wide initiative to patrol our state’s roadways during peak commuter hours. The goal of these initiatives is to keep New Hampshire’s roadways safe for all residents and visitors.

Ahearn performs in "DRACULA" at Keene State College -11-29-12
KEENE, N.H.,- Sheamus Ahearn of Raymond, N.H., performed in Dracula, a new stage adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic vampire novel, November 14 to 17, presented by the Keene State College Theatre and Dance Department at the Redfern Arts Center.

The son of Carla Ahearn of Raymond, N.H., he played the role of Renfield, a crazed victim of Dracula. A junior theatre major, Ahearn has appeared in The Rocky Horror Show, Turning the Tide, and The Premier Series while at Keene State. A 2010 graduate of Raymond High School, he has performed in several other productions in the area.

About Keene State Theatre and Dance Department
The Department of Theatre and Dance is dedicated to providing a comprehensive course of study that balances theory and practice within a sound liberal arts education. The collaborative nature of theatre and dance disciplines fosters an atmosphere in which students work closely with peers and faculty to gain practical experience in all facets of production and critical engagement. As artists and teachers, our primary focus is to encourage and guide our students as they find their creative voices and experience and question the world through the arts. For more information visit the Theatre and Dance Department or call 603-358-2162

About Keene State College
Keene State College is a preeminent public liberal arts college that ensures student access to world-class academic programs. Integrating academics with real-world application and active community and civic engagement, Keene State College prepares graduates to meet society's challenges by thinking critically, acting creatively, and serving the greater good. To learn more about Keene State College, visit www.keene.edu

Keene State College: Wisdom to make a difference.

Election Day in Raymond
By Cheryl Killam 11-8-12

At 6:45 pm Tuesday, Nov. 6, the line of cars trying to get in to vote at Raymond's Iber Holmes Gove Middle School were backed up from both directions on Epping Street. If you were fortunate enough to find a parking spot, and get inside before the 7 pm poll closing time, you had to join the long lines stretched down both hallways waiting to get inside the gymnasium.

The line coming from the left of registered voters was long enough that the end was out of sight. The line coming from the right of un-registered voters swung around the corner to the cafeteria. The lobby was packed full of people who were anxiously getting closer to the gymnasium doors only to join another line for the first letter of their last name.

The registered voters whose last names began with "K" included Ruth Karwatske and Keith Knight, who finally got inside the gymnasium at 7:15 pm, said they "had been waiting for over an hour, closer to an hour and a half and this was ridiculous."

Kathy Cramer commented that there were alot more unregistered voters this year than in 2008.

By 7:30 pm all voters were finally inside the gymnasium. Unfortunately for one woman who had stood in line for an hour and a half, she found out that she could not walk into the polls any where on her way home and vote. She was from Farmington.

Town Clerk Sharon Walls said 329 absentee ballots were mailed out, but only 303 of those were returned. A total of 4829 voters came through Middle School doors, with the very last voter stuffing the ballot into the box at 8:00 pm, for a total of 5132 Raymond voters. The polls were officially open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Lauren Campbell wins Miss Capital Area 2013
By Cheryl Killam - 10-9-12

Lauren Campbell, Raymond High School class of 2008, beat out eight other contestants, two who were Miss New Hampshire veterans, for her first victory in a pageant as Miss Capital Area 2013, on Sunday October 7th, at the Concord City Auditorium.

As a sophomore at Raymond High School, Miss New Hampshire Outstanding Teen was the first scholarship program she competed in at 16 years old. She moved on to the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program competition, earning about $10K in winnings during the past 4 years, which has been put towards her college expenses.

Campbell was crowned by her friend of four years, Samantha Massahos, Miss Stratham Fair 2012 and a graduate student of Keene State, who will also be competing in the Miss New Hampshire pageant.

Campbell received $1500 in scholarship funds, $1400 for being crowned Miss Capital Area and $100 for the overall talent award singing the song, “I Am Changing” by the Dream Girls.

During the next year, she will be promoting her platform “ Lean On Me,” which is near and dear to her heart, to provide support for victims of bullying, “because it can happen to anyone at any age,” she said. She is truly passionate about it and hopefully she can inspire others to realize that they can get beyond bullying, as she has. Campbell said, "Never let them tell you that you are not good enough."

Everywhere she goes, she will be speaking to anyone and everyone she can about being a victim of bullying, having experienced it for 14 years while attending the Raymond Schools.

Campbell is studying journalism at Keene State and was one of ten interns chosen out of 200 applicants to work at WMUR over the summer months. She hopes to work at a news station or sports network. Campbell is 23 years old and the daughter of Kathy Campbell and Brian Campbell.

The Miss Capital Area Program is an official preliminary pageant in the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program, leading into the Miss America Scholarship Program.

Miss Campbell will represent New Hampshire's capital in the Miss New Hampshire competition on the 26th, 27th and 28th of April at Pinkerton Academy in Derry.

RCFY and Raymond Police Department "Got Drugs" event collected 4 large boxes of Medication by Celeste Clark - 10-3-12

One after another, people came up to the table expressing thanks for
offering the much needed event on Saturday, Sept 29. It was the fifth DEA Got Drugs Medication Take Back campaign that the Raymond Police Department sponsored in partnership with the Raymond Coalition for Youth. This is a national event that is offered at participating locations across the county. Raymond Hannaford graciously agreed to sponsor the Raymond event at their location to help raise public awareness and offer easy access for those looking to participate.

By the end of the four hour event there were four boxes, totaling 100
pounds, filled with medication that people no longer needed or wanted. The stories that are shared at these events are what make it even more inspiring and meaningful to participate in. We heard from people who had lost loved ones and had boxes full of medication that was no longer needed and they didn't know what to do with it. Others had boxes full of containers they have collected as medication levels had been adjusted and new ones prescribed. "No one ever told us what to do with the old ones, thank you for telling us about this event and how to properly get rid of them." Others turned in left over Percocet or Oxycodone from past surgeries or aliments and just didn't want it in their house any longer.

For these reasons and more we want to thank everyone who helped to
advertise, support and contributed to our 5th DEA Got Drugs Take Back event. Combined with the other five events held in the past 2 years we have collected a total 495 pounds in Raymond. Special thanks go out to
Hannaford for hosting our space and the Raymond Police Department for
sponsoring this event with RCFY.

As we move forward we are excited to announce that a permanent medication drug drop box is expected to be installed in the Raymond Police Department in the coming months. Once this happens we will be sure to make our community aware of it.

Why are Medication Take Back Events so important? All of this effort to collect unused and expired medications is a response to the fact that
Prescription drug misuse amongst all ages is on the rise in our nation.
According to the 2008-2009 NSDUH, NH's rate of non-medical use of pain
relievers among 18 to 25 year olds was the second highest in the U.S. at a rate of 16.7%. Every day in the United States, more than 2,000 kids use a prescription drug to get high for the first time. Rx medicines are now the most commonly abused drugs among 12-13 year olds. In addition, unintentional drug poisoning is now the leading cause of accidental death in the US - 70 deaths a day - surpassing car accidents.

How can you help? Think about your home. What prescription and
over-the-counter (OTC) drugs do you have? Where are they kept? Would you know if some were missing?

You can take immediate steps to limit access to these drugs. Help us to spread awareness and encourage parents, grandparents, friend's coworkers and other adults to safeguard all drugs in the home, monitor prescriptions and over-the-counter medicine quantities and control access. Set clear rules for teens about all drug use, including not sharing medicine and always following the medical provider's advice and dosages. Talk about the dangers of abusing prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Remember to be a good role model by following these same rules with your own medicines and keep medications out of sight and stored in a location that others would not think to look.

For more information on prescription drug disposal guidelines, as well as the risks, signs, and symptoms of teen prescription drug abuse, visit
www.TheAntiDrug.com or call 1-800-788-2800. For more information on the Raymond Coalition for Youth or resources for parents and youth please visit www.rcfy.org or check us out on Facebook.

Music for Water Fest raises over $800
by Cheryl Killam 9-26-12

The “Music for Water Fest” fund raiser at Riverside Park on Saturday, Sept. 22, brought out plenty of Raymond residents, many accompanied by their dogs, their soccer kids, their grandparents, their relatives from Massachusetts and others who came to spend the day with their neighbors and friends.

The day’s activities were officially opened by Jackie Lee and Rigby Buckner singing the Star Spangled Banner. Music included soloist’s Ryan Taglieri and Dan Buckner of Building James to duos from locals Tracy Kozelek and Steve Wallerstein, the Ramones from Deerfield, North River Trio from Barrington, the hard rock jamming A City Scape from Boston and more.

People were dancing to the music, little girls were trying to teach the grown-up girls how to hula-hoop, even those who just didn’t have the hip-swing, boys were kicking soccer balls around the field and the traditional tug-a-war between teams of kids and big guys, on both sides, got sideline cheers.

The raffle table had gift certificates from Gordo’s Burritos, Ultimate Bouquet, Goody Cole’s, two from Tuckaway Tavern, Townhouse Pizza of Epping and True Devotions Jewelry, an Onway Woodworking cutting board, two Tastefully Simple baskets, a hand blown glass bowl, a hand knitted scarf, votive candle holders, a hand crocheted bath mitt, and a tie dyed 2011 Woodstock music fest t-shirt. The 50/50 raffle proved to be worth it for one gentleman who bought an arms length of tickets for $10 and walked out with $60.

At the concession stand, the food choices included apple coffee cake, brownies, lemon bars, whoopie pies, chocolate chip cookies, 7-layer magic bars, cupcakes, chocolate cake, popcorn, chili, pulled pork sandwiches, and of course grilled sausages with onions and peppers, burgers and dogs and assorted beverages.

The Riverside Park committee brought in great musicians, great raffle items, great food, great volunteers and the weather was perfect making this “Music for Water Fest” fund raiser for irrigation at the park successful, with a profit of over $800.00.

The Raymond Police Department and Raymond Coalition for Youth are TAKING BACK UNWANTED PRESCRIPTION DRUGS SEPTEMBER 29 AT Hannaford in Raymond- 9-17-12

On September 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Raymond Coalition for Youth and Raymond Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Bring your medications for disposal to the Raymond Hannaford Store at 2 Freetown Road in Raymond NH. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Last April, Americans turned in 552,161 pounds—276 tons—of prescription drugs at over 5,600 sites operated by the DEA and nearly 4,300 state and local law enforcement partners. In its four previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners took in over 1.5 million pounds—nearly 775 tons—of pills. The Raymond Coalition for Youth and Raymond Police Department have been participating in this event since it started in 2010 and to date have collected more than 387 pounds of medication in Raymond alone.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Four days after the first event, Congress passed the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, which amends the Controlled Substances Act to allow an “ultimate user” of controlled substance medications to dispose of them by delivering them to entities authorized by the Attorney General to accept them. The Act also allows the Attorney General to authorize long term care facilities to dispose of their residents’ controlled substances in certain instances. DEA is drafting regulations to implement the Act. Until new regulations are in place, local law enforcement agencies like the Raymond Police Department and the DEA will continue to hold prescription drug take-back events every few months.

Wonderland Thrift Opens at Cozy Corner
By Leslie O’Donnell 8-27-12

Do you need some help finding inexpensive but stylish clothing for back-to-school or a Halloween party? Do you collect vintage jewelry? Are you earning a bit extra by selling things on eBay?

Raymond residents don’t have far to look - there’s a new place to shop and discover unexpected treasures in Raymond. Wonderland Thrift opens its doors Tuesday, Sept. 4, in the Cozy Corner Plaza on Route 27.

Wonderland, a non-profit retail thrift shop, has been in business for a little more than four years at 96 Epping Road (Route 27) in Exeter. Sharon Keenan, manager of the Exeter store, said they saw a need for a similar shop in Raymond and found a spot at Cozy Corner.

Lisa Carter is the manager of the Raymond shop; both stores are owned by Lisa Pearson.

Keenan said the Raymond shop will offer “about everything.

“There is a huge holiday decorations area, which will change with the seasons,” she said. Other areas feature clothing for men, women, children, teens and babies, as well as baby blankets, rattles and other needs for the youngest set. Ties, hats, shoes, purses, scarves – all can be found at Wonderland in Raymond.

A library section will feature books, DVDs and tapes, and a toy section is sure to delight children and infants. In the textiles section, shoppers will find quilts, sheets, towels, blankets and doilies, while the housewares area carries items ranging from kitchen knives to food canisters.

Keenan said a large jewelry counter is sure to become a favorite part of the store, and vintage jewelry, dolls, comic books and pictures are among the items offered. No furniture will be sold at the Raymond shop at this time, but that may change.

Wonderland Thrift is a non-profit, and after operating expenses are met, the rest of the profits go out as a donation to a different non-profit each month.

“Last year we gave away $50,000 in clothing and houseware vouchers,” Keenan added. “People can call in and let us know that, say, a family lost items in a fire, and we’ll give a voucher to cover that. We send vouchers to every welfare office in nearby towns, to doctors’ offices and schools. We also provide local welfare offices with gas and grocery cards.”

Donations of goods for the shop can be made during open hours. An outdoor depository is planned. No goods are sold on consignment – the shop operates strictly on donations, Keenan said.

Starting Sept. 4, Opening Day, Raymond’s Wonderland Thrift will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, with ample parking in the Cozy Corner Plaza lot.

Raymond Historical Society annual Pancake Breakfast held at the depot down town.

Raymond Voter Information Project Opens Fall Membership Season - 7-19-12

The Raymond Voter Information Project (www.raymondvip.org) is pleased to announce its fourth season of voter education programs and information. Raymond VIP strives to provide clear, factual, comprehensive and objective information to help citizens understand warrant articles, make their own choices, and to believe that their vote can make a difference, especially in local elections.

Raymond VIP produces a Fall Speaker Program, a Writing Challenge in collaboration with the Raymond School District, and a free voting guide with information about local elections which is mailed to Raymond households in March.

Raymond VIP is committed to building an active membership that is able to participate in each phase of its editorial process, including reporting, test reading, and editorial committee service. Membership is open to all registered Raymond voters.

Raymond VIP is founded on the belief that the responsibility for good government rests on the shoulders of every citizen, that a well informed voter has the greatest freedom of choice, that it is possible to present objective voter information, and that the good of the Town of Raymond is best served when all its citizens participate in study, deliberation, and voting. Members come from a broad range of careers and municipal experience, and have many personal viewpoints. However, when working within Raymond VIP, they are committed to neither support nor oppose any political party, candidate or warrant article.

The Raymond Voter Information Project is registered with the State of New Hampshire and with the Town of Raymond as a nonprofit corporation and a charitable trust, and is recognized by the IRS as a 501 (c) (3) organization. The organization is currently soliciting funds to ensure publication of the voting guide. Tax deductible donations can be mailed to Raymond VIP, Box 813 Raymond, NH 03077.

For more information contact Treasurer Marilyn Elliott at 895-4084 or access the website at www.raymondvip.org.

Congratulations to State Representative Paul Brown of Raymond.

Paul Brown was presented with the NH Liberty Alliance Legislator of the Year award for 2012 during the New Hampshire Liberty Alliance dinner on July 15.

When asked how he felt about it he said, "Quite honestly it's the first time I ever came in first for anything. I never played sports in High School and couldn't have attended college if I could have afforded it. It took 79 years to finally get first place in something and I am very proud of it."

Paul said he also holds the record for the longest break between sessions, from when he served as a state rep back in 1967 to 2010.

Thank you Paul Brown for serving as a NH State Representative.

Onway Lake boat access ramp in Raymond will be closed for repairs from July 23 through August 31.

Installation of a concrete boat ramp, parking for three trailered vehicles and five cartop vehicles, erosion control measures, and repavement of the access road will be completed by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.

Two new Board of Directors join RCFY- By Celeste Clark 7-19-12

The Raymond Coalition for youth, serving the community of Raymond NH is
excited to announce the addition of two new board of director members.

As of our June meeting Christine Bostaph a parent of two youth in the
Raymond school district, Girl Scout troop leader and actively involved
parent became a member. Tammy Reardon, parent of four and assistant
Recreation Director for the town of Raymond also joined the board. We are
very excited to have them both on our team working to Promote positive
healthy choices for our youth!

Current RCFY board members include Stephen Sloan, Chief David Salois, Mary
Taber, Dr. Jean Richards, Matthew Chouinard and Ali Bousquin. RCFY does
have a requirement to attend 3 meeting before being elected as a member.
Annual elections for positions will be held in November at our annual
meeting. If you are interested in learning more about the Raymond Coalition
for Youth or becoming involved please visit our website at www.rcfy.org you
can also check us out on Facebook.

The RCFY mission is to empower the community to promote positive youth development and strengthen community assets by coordinating services and opportunities through prevention initiatives, including suicide, alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

United Veterans Club of Raymond opens soon in new location.
By Cheryl Killam - 7-6-2012

The United Veterans Club of Raymond (UVCR) plans to open this fall in leased quarters in a 3,000-square-foot section of the Jewett building on the corner of Route 27 and Harriman Hill Road. That space is currently occupied by Natural or Not Salon and Spa, which is moving to the opposite end of the building, where it will share space with Keep in Touch! With K Massage Therapy.

The estimated opening date of the UVCR is September 13, 2012. The estimated opening date for the salon and spa is end of July.

Members of the American Legion who are also members of the UVCR by their own choice have leased the space for the club in the Jewett building. The United Veterans Club of Raymond is not associated with the American Legion or the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW), both of which have specific dates of military service for membership. The UVCR was created for any citizen who has served in the United States Military, regardless of their dates of service.

A new UVCR building proposed for the land next to Radio Grove on Route 27 has been in the planning stages for several years, and Dave Peno, UVCR board chairman, said the club has spent over $30,000 on plans for its construction.

“The members voted that all future earthwork, foundation, septic system and landscaping will be paid for with cash,” Peno said. “Due to the current economy, donations to the UVCR have dropped 82 percent over the past few years."
The plans for the building next to Radio Grove, already on file with the town, will remain as presented to the planning board. The hope is that the building can be constructed in a few years.

Peno, who served as grand marshal in the Raymond 4th of July Parade, said the UVCR will be holding fund raisers at its new location to accumulate as much cash as possible to pay for the work at the building site, with the goal of taking out a loan to pay for construction. The fund raisers will include Bingo, beginning Oct. 15, as well as dances, dinners and other events.

The UVCR expects to acquire a new liquor license for the Jewett building location. The club’s planned hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days a week. However, as American Legion members have day jobs, the hours may be adjusted to accommodate thee availability of members to run the club.

The new leased location is smoke free indoors, with a smoking zone outside, behind the building.

Meanwhile, the leased area will also be the permanent meeting place for the Cub Scouts. Among its other activities, the UVCR regularly donates food, clothes and money to pay for heat during the winter to members of the public in need. For questions about UVCR activities, call Dave Peno at 793-1185 or Ed Miller at 895-8888.

Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation Awards $5,000 to The Raymond Coalition for Youth for local community improvement Playground project - June 26,2012

The Raymond Coalition for Youth (RCFY) and the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation (LCEF) today announced a major gift to support The Raymond Coalition for Youth mission to Promote Positive Healthy Choices for Youth.

The Lowe’s/Keep America Beautiful Community Improvement Grant of $5,000 is one of 120 merit-based grants awarded nationally. The one awarded to RCFY will support the building of a playground area at Riverside Park.

In a recent conversation with parents it was noted that there is a need for a place for families to go for down time and on the weekends for unstructured fun. Many of the park areas in town have prescheduled soccer or baseball games and you need to go through the proper channels to arrange to use them. Riverside Park is a beautiful, relaxing resource in our community that we want to encourage families to come and visit. We hope the addition of this equipment will encourage more family involvement, a pickup game of kickball, volleyball or a picnic to relax.

“We are very excited about this funding and are looking forward to promoting the use of Riverside Park. We know that increasing the use of a remote location lessens the chances of risky behaviors taking place there. This is a positive community improvement that will provide a positive way for youth and families to enjoy the great outdoors and have fun doing it”. Celeste Clark RCFY Executive Director.

The grant program is being supported by Lowe’s company-wide volunteerism effort, Lowe’s Heroes. This initiative offers Lowe’s employees the opportunity to work on a project in their own neighborhood, helping to make their communities better places to live, work and play.

“Keep America Beautiful is proud of the positive impact that The Raymond Coalition for Youth’s project will have in the Raymond NH community,” said Keep America Beautiful President and CEO Matt McKenna. “We are truly grateful to Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation for its support and leadership that is being demonstrated in community sustainability.”

RCFY has been in Raymond for over ten years and works with community organizations, parents and youth to promote positive and healthy choices for Youth. To learn more visit www.rcfy.org or check us out on Facebook.

Positive Raymond - A Community Conversation about our priorities, concerns, and ideas and How we can make Raymond a Great Place to Live, Work and Learn. -By Cheryl Killam

Over 60 residents attended for three hours on Saturday March 10th at the IHG Middle School. Read what the community had to say in the Positive Raymond Report.

Tuesday May 15 was the All Boards Meeting with the Positive Raymond group.

Positive Raymond held a meeting Tuesday May 15th at IHG Middle School, with members of all of the boards in town. It was attended by 25 people plus the NH Listens facilitator, with only one or two people per board attending.

The facilitator read the group agreements explaining that it’s Ok to disagree but don’t personalize it, speak for yourself, be respectful and use respectful language and listen first.

The facilitator asked what stood out as important issues in the report from the March 10 meeting. Responses started off with - Raymond has alot of positive things going on and we have alot of pride for our town. That changed quickly to lack of civil discourse, lack of communication, lack of respect, trust and fairness. Words that suggest leadership in Raymond needs to make changes.

The list included:

Poor Communication, lack of civil discourse.
Speak respectfully to others and build trust.
No way to know what’s going on in town anymore.
Bad press in Union Leader;
Need more volunteers;
Need infrastructure for more economic development.
Improve the public dialogue and behaviors.

Everyone was concerned about all the negative press written in the Union Leader. One attendee asked the UL reporter why the good things are not covered in the paper as often and was told that it’s their job to report the facts and write stories that sell. Some said we need to have a public relations group to help make the press more aware of the good things happening in Raymond.

Concerns raised included: that we need our town leaders to embrace Positive Raymond to help change the towns image, people need to listen more, be accountable and responsible for their actions and to not give the press anything negative to write about.

Hopefully more residents will attend the next Positive Raymond meeting on Tuesday May 22nd from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Iber Holmes Gove Middle School café so we can continue this effort to create change and work towards building a more positive image of Raymond.

Tuesday May 22 there was a second community work session that the public was invited to attend.

Only 23 residents attended, but there were a few new faces that replaced others that were unable to attend. Many discussions and suggestions were similar to those provided during the All Boards meeting.

The groups focused on the following key findings to establish action items:

Communication & Civil Discourse/Leadership & Collaboration: every group expressed the desire to improve communication and civility in the Raymond Community.

Community Development & Public Relations: there is a strong desire to tell the positive stories about Raymond to move beyond the negative stigma of the town.

Economic Development & Conservation: issues of balanced growth and development that would strengthen community and increase economic vitality was the third most addressed issue.

All of the information will be compiled and available on the Positive Raymond website very soon.

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