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Nora’s Knapsacks 2025: Collection thru 12/2; Final assembly 12/3; Some items still needed

Activities Announcements

11/22/2025 From Sue Orr and Roberta Wells (chairpeople):
We are still in need of Men’s Socks, Men’s Gloves, Men’s Hats, & Mens’ Scarves/Neckwarmers and a few snacks.

November 6 through December 2: Donation Collection
Bring donations to the clubhouse lobby, deposit in the trunk.

If you have already donated – Thank You!

December 3, 10 AM: Final assembly of knapsacks
Questions? Contact Sue Orr or Roberta Wells or committee members:  Linda Kelley, Donna Tuzzolo, MaryEllen McGrath, Lynn Doyle, Phyllis Morris, Louise Lussier.

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11/1/2025: We need Christmas cards:
> If you have some Christmas Cards you are not going to be using, please add those to the donation box so we can include a personal note inside each knapsack.


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12/7/2024: Phyllis Morris shared a letter of thanks from the President and CEO of Families in Transition:

11/19/2024

In under an hour, the Hickory Woods neighbors put together 250 bags to take to “Families in Transition” in Manchester.

These bags each contain socks, a hat, scarf, gloves, mylar blanket, rain poncho, tissues, hand warmers, toiletries and snacks. All items were donated by the neighbors of Hickory Woods in a two-week period from October 26th to November 15th.

NORA’S KNAPSACKS 2024
Top Row l-r: Greg Orr, Brad Perham, Tom Morris, John Goglia, Jay Fallon, Joanne Fallon, Bob Zuccaro, Karen Wilson
Middle Row: Sharon Joyal, Phyllis Morris, Maryellen McGrath, Cathy McMullen, Priscilla McDonough, Sheila Jenkins, Lynn Doyle, Judy Goglia, Roberta Wells
Front Row: Stephanie Connor, Nancy Mosher, Mary Doherty, Sue Orr, Donna Tuzzolo, Paula Zuccaro. Picture taken by Ann Perham.

The assembly crew filled the bags in under an hour!

Phyllis Morris thanks the committee and appreciates all of the neighbors’ donations
Sue Orr and Donna Tuzzolo
Judy Goglia, Mary Doherty, Joanne Fallon
Priscilla McDonough, John Goglia, Judy Goglia, Lynn Doyle
Phyllis Morris, Judy Goglia, Lynn Doyle, Donna Tuzzolo, Sue Orr
Sharon Joyal, Cathy McMullen
(l-r): Brad Perham, Tom Morris, John Goglia, Bob Zuccaro, Greg Orr
The packing crew (above) boxed up the knapsacks and the delivery crew of Bob and Maryellen McGrath and Tom and Phyllis Morris had the bags at Families in Transition in Manchester before noon!
Bob McGrath, Maryellen McGrath, Phyllis Morris, Tom Morris
Families in Transition
Families in Transition
2024 TIMELINE

Monday October 26 through Friday November 15: Bring your donations to the HW Clubhouse. Deposit your items in the blue bin in the foyer. The committee will sort and tally donations in the meeting room.

Tuesday November 19 at 9 AM: Assembly of the bags. All neighbors are welcome to assist in filling the bags. It should take less than 2 hours.

Tuesday November 19th: Transport the boxed knapsacks to Families in Transition – Maryellen and Bob McGrath

THANK YOU for the donation of the knapsacks to Scott MacConnell, Phoenix Screen Printing and Embroidery (son of Nancy Mosher)

Questions? Please contact a committee member: Mary Doherty, Sue Orr, Lynn Doyle, Sharon Joyal, Joanne Fallon, Mary Lou Gould, Roberta Wells, Phyllis Morris, Ann Perham, Vern Loschi

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What are the origins of Nora’s Knapsacks?

Nora Moris was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Davidson, Maryland. She devoted much time and energy to outreach for those who have nothing, the homeless. Her death did not end this work; READ about the continuation of her work at her church in Maryland.

Nora would put together bags with granola bars, water and various other items and keeps these bags in her car.  She drove around the less fortunate neighborhoods of Baltimore and gave them to those people on the streets who appear to be in need.  She was a brave person.  Her courage has been an example for many of us.  We, at Holy Family, put together drawstring bags of our own.  We are having them available after masses throughout the year.  Keep one in your car.  When you see someone who is in need (when you are stopped at a traffic light, walking in a parking lot, in your daily travels) you give them the bag.

Through the efforts of Tom and Phyllis Morris to continue the spirit of their daughter in law, the Hickory Woods community has generously supported this project since 2019. Our goal for 2024 is to fill 200 bags to take to a homeless shelter in Manchester.

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THANK YOU received from Families in Transition (1/12/2024)

FamiliesTransition

November 30, 2023: Hickory Woods neighbors donate 200+ Nora’s Knapsacks; Heartfelt thanks from Phyllis

Assembling the bags on November 30, 2023:(front) Donna Tuzzolo, Mary Doherty, Maryellen McGrath, Dale St.Louis, Phyllis Morris, Denise Penaskovic, Ellen Medeiros; (middle) Cathy McMullen, Paula Zuccaro, Sue Orr; (standing) Terry McDonough, Judy Goglia, Linda Kelly, Sheila Jenkins, Roberta Wells, Emma Greenhalgh, Joanne Fallon, Lou Pellerin, Doyle, Priscilla McDonough, Karen Wilson, Piekos, John Goglia, Orr, Bob Zuccaro. (Not in picture, Bob McGrath, Ann Perham)

Assembling the bags on November 30, 2023:(front) Donna Tuzzolo, Mary Doherty, Maryellen McGrath, Dale St.Louis, Phyllis Morris, Denise Penaskovic, Ellen Medeiros; (middle-right) Cathy McMullen, Paula Zuccaro, Sue Orr; (standing): Terry McDonough, Judy Goglia, Linda Kelly, Sheila Jenkins, Roberta Wells, Emma Greenhalgh, Joanne Fallon, Lou Pellerin, Lynn Doyle, Priscilla McDonough, Karen Wilson, Peggy Piekos, John Goglia, Greg Orr, Bob Zuccaro. (Not in picture: Bob McGrath, Ann Perham)

The crafters made 108 hats for the Knapsacks!

Nora-hats

The Knapsacks had 106 hats, hand-crafted by the HW Ladies. Pictured: Dale St. Louis, Joan McCarthy, Sheila Jenkins and Vern Loschi. Not pictured but part of the team of knitters: Cherryl Gordon, Joyce Newman, Leslie Boone, Laura Kuzia, Nancy Shearer.

WMUR-TV reported on this feel-good project: VIEW the TV story

Delivering the Knapsacks to New Horizons in Manchester

From Phyllis Morris: To all my neighbors here at Hickory Woods thank you so very much for making Nora’s Knapsacks the huge success that it is. With all the donations and the help that is required the event this year was able to fill 210 knapsacks filled with essentials for someone in need. Along with the knapsacks another 6 large boxes of essentials was given to the shelter. They were truly grateful to receive it all. There are so many individual people here in the neighborhood to thank. The list is long! Those who donated items in many forms and those who gave their time. I try to thank each one individually and I’m sure I missed a few. We received the items for the knapsacks and also large boxes for new clothes that have been given out in weeks past thanks to a generous donation from a neighbor here at Hickory Woods. A huge thank you to each and every one of you for everything you have done.
A knapsack given to someone in need helps to keep them warm, dry, and a little dignity as well with the toiletries needed. You may not realize what is most important to them is the fact that some one cares. Especially at this time of year when we are so busy and purchasing gifts for everyone we love. Yes, there is a Santa Claus and he wears many different suits! We have so much to give and they have so little. Now because of you they have a Nora’s Knapsack. ❤️

Updates from Phyllis Morris: NorasKnapsacks2

November 11, 2023:  I am still taking donations for the homeless until Nov. 29. On Nov. 30th we are scheduled to fill the bags at the clubhouse. I currently have one volunteer to help bring all the donations to the clubhouse from my home. I could use at least one more, 2 would be great. This would be at 8:30 am and would take approximately 20 minutes. We will start sorting and packing all donations at 9:00 with a great team effort if anybody would like to help with the task. I am grateful for any help that can be offered. As of now all 200 bags will be filled and I will have many more donations to box and bring to the shelter, thanks to the generous residents of Hickory Woods.

November 4, 2023: I am pleased to tell everyone that with amazing donations that have come to me for the homeless bags from so many residents that we are nearly at the point of being able to fill 200 bags that we planned on for this year.

  • We have filled our quota of snacks, men’s socks and Mylar blankets.
  • We only need about 20 scarves and gloves to reach the 200 mark.
  • Tooth brushes and small toothpaste are still needed.
  • We are in need of men’s hats and I know that the ladies craft day are busy in that dept. so I will have an update soon on what’s needed there.
  • That being said I would like anyone wishing to donate or that have already purchased items to know that even though a quota has been met on certain items that we will double up on duplicates in the bags if needed. 

The shelter is so grateful for all these bags and any extras that will come their way. I can’t stress enough at how much is needed and the difference we are making in many lives.

I am reaching out for able bodies to help bring all the donations to the clubhouse on Nov. 30th. from my basement and garage for that morning to fill the bags.

  • 8:30 am to bring them over and a 9:00 am for any volunteers that will help with all that’s needed that morning. We usually do the task in about 2 hours.
  • Also needed is someone to help deliver the boxes when finished to the Manchester shelter. 

Also any monetary donations that anyone would may like to contribute could be made to New Horizons -Families in Transition at any time. https://www.fitnh.org/get-involved/

I appreciate all the help and cannot thank all enough! Contact me for any questions anytime.

October 29: We are still in need of all items. Donations are a little slower coming in than last year and I suspect the warm weather has a lot to do with it. I think as the cold weather is about to hit us many will be thinking of the less fortunate that are in great numbers on the street with nothing to keep them warm. 

November 30 will be the day that we will plan on to fill the knapsacks and then deliver them to the shelter – save the date!

2023 Nora’s Knapsacks Kickoff !

Phyllis Morris is once again  spearheading the “Nora’s Knapsack project.”  “The need to help those less fortunate is even greater than in years past.”

Phyllis is grateful for any donation to help the homeless in any way.

Phyllis’s goal this year is 200 bags that will be delivered to the shelter around the first week in December.

Questions? Contact Phyllis anytime: pmtennis@myfairpoint.net

UDATE on suggested items for donation – similar to previous years:

  • Socks
  • Scarves
  • Gloves
  • Hats
  • Snacks  – individually wrapped
  • Toiletries – small size
  • Tooth brushes, small size toothpaste
  • Rain ponchos
  • Hand warmers
  • Mylar blankets (have enough for 2023)

Special notes:

  • We generally need more men’s items than women’s.
  • The Dollar Tree and Ocean State Job Lots is a big source to purchase inexpensive and warm items for the bags.
  • You can buy items in bulk on the Dollar Tree website and have it shipped to the nearest store at no cost. All can be picked up when notified.
  • Amazon is also a great source for items.
  • If anyone would like to pick up a bag at my house and fill with items on their own that would be something they could do. I have had neighbors do this and have their grandchildren get involved with filling a bag or two with needed items. Getting them involved with community service is a wonderful learning experience. Just a suggestion for a neat project with them.
  • Items can be dropped off at my door anytime. Ring my bell and hopefully I will be home to thank you for all donations. Love saying hello to everyone who stops by.

12/10/2022 THANKS from Phyllis Morris

Thank you to all the Hickory Woods residents who took part in the Nora’s Knapsack project for the homeless this year. It takes a team to accomplish what took place. A grand total, at last count, of 242 bags filled with beautiful hand crafted hats from the talented HW ladies, to wonderful matching scarves, hats and glove combinations, monetary donations used to purchase socks and extra scarves, along with help during the weeks prior organizing boxes and boxes of items at my home.

The group coming on packing day was amazing making the process of removing tags, sorting and filling the bags so efficient that we accomplished the job in under 2 hours. A very special thank you to those who came and removed the heavy boxes of donations from my home to the clubhouse. Thank you to Bob and Maryellen McGrath for delivering the knapsacks to the shelter.

A huge thank you to Scott MacConnell owner of Phoenix Screen Printing and Embroidery who is Nancy Mosher’s son for donating all the knapsacks again this year and to Nancy and Gary Mosher for making this possible.

Nora’s Knapsacks were delivered to New Horizons and Families in Transition to be distributed to the homeless in Manchester. A total of 50 were also given to the The Michael Stephen Boyd Foundation. This foundation is an outreach program that deals with homeless veterans. Michael Boyd was a marine sergeant who lost his life to addiction and was homeless when he returned from active duty abroad.
Thank you Hickory Woods for all you did to make a difference for so many.❤️

12/7/2022 The final steps: Packing the bags and loading the boxes. A terrific group of elves got the job done.

Nora's Knapsacks - Elf Crew

Nora’s Knapsacks – Elf Crew

(l-r): Maryellen McGrath, Bob McGrath, Phyllis and --- delivered 239 backpacks to New Horizons.

(l-r): Maryellen McGrath, Bob McGrath, Phyllis Morris and Tom Morris delivered 239 backpacks to New Horizons.

11/19/2022: Update from Phyllis Morris: Another week of donations dropped off for thedonate homeless to thank you all for. I appreciate everyone taking the time to stop by during what is surely a busy week for everyone. Any and all donations are appreciated. Gloves and scarves probably needed at this time to go with the many handcrafted hats.  We are all set with snacks and toiletries.
   The ladies craft day on Thursday is nothing short of amazing. I have been told that there are many beautiful handmade hats that have been created. What a wonderful gift this will be for those who have so little.
   The packing date of Dec.7th is approaching and many have volunteered to come help at the clubhouse on that morning . The time is set for 9:00 and all we need is helping hands to make the process go quickly.
   Thank you to everyone for all you do for this project.

11/12/2022: Update from Phyllis Morris: Wonderful donations continue to come in for the homeless. Needed items at this time to balance the bags are still the most asked for at the shelters and the homeless camps. They are warm hats, gloves and scarves.
     I had the pleasure of stopping by the craft session on Thursday at the clubhouse where many were knitting and crocheting hats for Nora’s Knapsacks. I was so impressed with the talent and how many have been created in such a short time. So grateful for all the work. Gloves and scarves are needed to go with all the hats.
     I want to thank those who left items on my front door step for this project. I wish I was here when you stopped by this week to thank you personally.
     We will be filling the knapsacks on Wednesday Dec.7th at 9:00 at the clubhouse. Looking for volunteers that day to sort, take tags off, and organize all items to be placed in the bags.
Last year the Hickory Woods volunteers were amazing and handled all in less than 3 hours.
I am looking forward to that day as it was so rewarding and a lot of fun.

11/5/2022: Update from Phyllis Morris: This community is nothing short of amazing! You’re making such a difference for so many that need our help. We are well on track to fill 200 bags this year. Donations are coming in daily and the response is so heartwarming as the need for these has increased even more this year.

At this time we could use individually wrapped snacks and small size toiletries of any kind. Hats, gloves, and scarves are always needed. We can never have too many.

ALL items are needed as we will keep adding more bags as donations come in. I am already working on increasing our supply of bags as I know we will need them. More is always a good thing when helping the homeless. There are so many living on the streets that the demand is greater than ever. 

October 29, 2022:

 Update on Nora’s Knapsacks:
From Phyllis Morris- Donations are coming in and we are on track to fill 200 bags as we did last year. We are about halfway there. Please set aside December 7th for packing the bags. I hope to be able to deliver the bags to the shelter on that day also. Volunteers on that day at the clubhouse will be needed and greatly appreciated.

* Still needed:

  • Men’s gloves, hats, and scarves.  (Most needed)
  • Rain ponchos and toiletries.
  • toothbrushes and toothpaste. Small sizes if possible.
* We have met our goal for:
  • Men’s socks
  • Women’s items
  • Hand warmers and Mylar blankets. (We can always use more if donated.)
* We will continue to accept donations for the bags through the month of November.

October 20, 2022: Update from Phyllis Morris

It is early in our collection for Nora’s Knapsacks and I have the need for everything that we put in the bags. Again the bags will be filled with:

  • Socks
  • Scarves
  • Gloves
  • Hats
  • Snacks  – individually wrapped
  • Toiletries – small size
  • Tooth brushes toothpaste (small size)
  • Rain ponchos
  • Hand warmers
  • Mylar blankers

Special notes:

  • We generally need more men’s items than women’s.
  • The Dollar Tree and Ocean State Job Lots is a big source to purchase inexpensive and warm items for the bags.
  • You can buy items in bulk on the Dollar Tree website and have it shipped to the nearest store at no cost. All can be picked up when notified.
  • Amazon is also a great source for items.
  • If anyone would like to pick up a bag at my house and fill with items on their own that would be something they could do. I have had neighbors do this and have their grandchildren get involved with filling a bag or two with needed items. Getting them involved with community service is a wonderful learning experience. Just a suggestion for a neat project with them.
  • As of now I have tentatively set a date of December 7th to pack the bags at the clubhouse and box them for distribution. I will definitely need help with this project and hope that Team Hickory Woods will be there like last year. It was great! We filled 200 bags in less than 3 hours with all the helping hands.
  • Items can be dropped off at my door anytime. Ring my bell and hopefully I will be home to thank you for all donations. Love saying hello to everyone who stops by.

October 8, 2022: Dropping off donations at 2 Church Lane

Donations may be left on the Morris’s porch at 2 Church Lane. Please attach your name in some way to your donated goods so that you can be properly thanked.

September 24, 2022: Nora’s Knapsack project is happening again this year.

From Phyllis Morris: I will start collecting items October 1st and will continue until the week before Thanksgiving. The bags will be filled and distributed the first week of December. I will have more information on this in the coming weeks.

The knapsacks are going to be donated for the project again this year. We filled 200 last year and I hope to fill as many this year as they are sorely needed by many. With the generous residents here at Hickory Woods I am confident this will happen.

Items needed are mostly the same as in the past:

  • Scarves, gloves, hats, and socks are at the top of the list.
  • Toothpaste, toothbrushes, Mylar blankets and hand warmers are a plus also.
  • Individually wrapped snacks are a bonus to the bags.

We fill bags for adults only with this project. The bags are distributed among the homeless living on the streets.

Contact me with questions pmtennis@myfairpoint.net I welcome any suggestions anyone may have in making this project a great success as it has been in the past.

Families in Transition-New Horizons Group -Manchester, NH

12/10/2021 Delivering the bags to Families in Transition/New Horizons: (L-R) Gary Mosher, Tom Morris, Phyllis Morris and two volunteers from FIT.

12/21/2021 THANK YOU from New Horizons

Hello, friends at Hickory Woods,

I want to thank you for the fantastic donation of almost 200 Nora’s knapsacks! The packs are distributed to the homeless through our outreach team and case managers. These packs will be a great help to the homeless community in our area.

Thanks again, and Happy Holidays to you all!

Mary K. Silva Volunteer Manager 

FAMILIES IN TRANSITION
394 Second Street, Manchester NH 03102
603.641.9441 | WWW.FITNH.ORG

12/17/2021  John Goglia wrote an article “Nora’s Dream” for the www.newsbreak.com website. John has a small request: If anyone would like to review it there I would encourage them to click on as a follower of my articles so that I can build up my base.  

It’s a great article and very easy to leave a comment.

12/11/2021 Thank you from Phyllis Morris: Friday morning with the help of several neighbors we loaded all boxes packed with Nora’s Knapsacks to be delivered to the homeless shelter. Terry McDonough, Bob Doyle, Bob and Paula Zuccaro, and Gary Mosher were there to assist us in the move from the clubhouse to the vehicles. The final count this year after all was packed, a total 194 bags. Gary Mosher, my husband Tom and I were met at the shelter with many smiles as they unloaded the boxes for distribution there at the shelter. The shelter is currently  filled to capacity with 140 beds. Nora’s Knapsacks will be given out as Christmas gifts to all. The remaining bags will be distributed along the encampments on the river banks and on the street.

We are so grateful for the enormous support that the residents here at Hickory Woods has given to this project. To all who donated and also gave their time, I want to thank you in a big way! Just look what we all accomplished and made possible this year. Your generosity was appreciated by so many! You made a difference in someone’s life. 🎄

12/08/2021 Article in the Londonderry Times: Great PR for our community. The article is on the bulletin board in the clubhouse. You can also see it on the Londonderry Times webpage.

12/1/2021 Work Party!  The HW Clubhouse was buzzing with workers — transporting donations, filling bags and packing the bags.

Tom and Phyllis Morris (front); Middle: Mary Doherty, Linda Kelly, Sue Ott, Emma Greenhalgh, Cathy McMullen, Lynn Doyle, Karen Quinn, Peggy Piekos; Back: Phyllis Englemann, Joan McCarthy, Denise Penaskovic, Priscilla McDonough, Terry McDonough, Bob Doyle, Ellen Kennett

Tom and Phyllis Morris (front); Middle: Mary Doherty, Linda Kelly, Sue Orr, Emma Greenhalgh, Cathy McMullen, Lynn Doyle, Karen Quinn, Peggy Piekos; Back: Phyllis Englemann, Joan McCarthy, Denise Penaskovic, Priscilla McDonough, Terry McDonough, Bob Doyle, Ellen Kennett

UPDATE from Phyllis Morris 12/1/2021: 

This morning went very well. IMG_3072We had no problems at all and it took only 1 and 1/2 hours to fill 187 bags. Yes 187!  Amazing.

Scott MacConnell owner of Phoenix Screen Printing & Embroidery who is Nancy Mosher’s son donated 200 knapsacks. We had 28 boxes of essential items (all items donated by the wonderful community we live in).

They were transported from my house to the clubhouse by Bob Doyle, Terry McDonough, and Ken Penaskovic along with Tom. Could not have done that job without them. 

Thirteen ladies appeared at the IMG_3073clubhouse and rolled up their sleeves: Mary Doherty, Linda Kelly, Sue Orr, Emma Greenhalgh, Cathy McMullen, Lynn Doyle, Karen Quinn, Peggy Piekos, Phyllis Englemann, Joan McCarthy, Denise Penaskovic, Priscilla McDonough, Ellen Kennett.

It was a meeting of great minds working together to get it done. All went very smooth and I feel everyone enjoyed the process. I am so grateful for my neighbors.

So many people will benefit from all the work that was done to make thisIMG_3076 possible. At this time all is going to go to Families in Transition New Horizons. They have groups that will take them into the homeless camps and also keep some for walk ins that come to the shelter.IMG_3077

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IMG_3079. IMG_3080

11/13/2021: Update from Phyllis Morris: 

newhorizons

HELP NEEDED!  Hickory Woods residents have been so generous with donations for the homeless. We are on track to fill 150 bags this year and possibly more as donations continue.
 
Many have offered to assist. Here is wheat will be needed for helping hands:
  • 9:00 AM on Dec. 1: 20 boxes to be transported from my house to the clubhouse. They are stored downstairs so a couple of able bodies to carry them up and bring them to the clubhouse. Should only take about 20 minutes and a couple of SUVs will do or a truck.
  • 10:00 AM on Dec. 1: Filling the bags.  If all goes smoothly, we can do this in about 2 hours – I will try my best to organize it all so that it will go quickly.
  • 9:00 AM on Dec. 10: Help to load and deliver the boxes filled with Nora’s Knapsacks to New Horizons in Manchester NH. They have asked for that day for delivery and would like to give anyone a tour of the shelter if you would like.

Please contact me and let me know if you will be able to help on any of those times on December 1st and December 10:   pmtennis@myfairpoint.net

11/7/2021 UPDATE from Phyllis Morris: The donations have been terrific. Of particular need right now are toothbrushes and toothpaste. THANK YOU! Also, we have enough socks, rain ponchos and socks.

10/30/2021 UPDATE from Phyllis Morris: We are still on track to fill the bags at thehatsglovesscarves clubhouse on Dec. 1st. Many have expressed a desire to help on that day.  I am sorting all in boxes as they come in and will bring all to the clubhouse that day to fill bags.
.
I have had many donations to date. Right now I have enough of most items to fill 100 bags so I am in need of all items.

All and any items are always appreciated but we could use more:

  • scarves. (Mostly mens)
  • rain ponchos
  • Mylar blankets Two neighbors bought these at Amazon and on eBay. These are perfect and could really be a life saving item to many on the streets. I have about 100 of these items and we hope to fill 150 bags this year.

Again, any and all items for the bags will all be put to use in a big way. Anybody can reach me at any time for questions. pmtennis@myfairpoint.net or 603-508-1718

10/6/2021 UPDATE from Phyllis Morris:

Collection for Nora’s Knapsacks has begun here in Hickory Woods. This is a project to accept donations for those in dire need.

The homeless population has grown and the need to help is greater than ever. Nora’s Knapsacks are filled with small daily needs as well as items to keep warm during the winter months. I find that most items can be found at the Dollar Store as they have a large assortment of travel sizes. Space is an issue with the homeless. They carry their whole world in these bags.

The bags will be delivered and distributed to Families in Transition New Horizons again this year. They are located in Manchester, NH. The knapsacks are given out to those living on the street and in homeless camps along the city.

Donations can be dropped off at my home at 2 Church Lane.

Cash donations? I have received checks made out to me in the past and what I have done is to make purchases for the needed items. I would be happy to do that if anyone is not able to get out to purchase the items for any reason.

Many here at Hickory Woods have offered to help with the project. I will hold a meeting at my home on Wednesday Oct. 13 at 10:00 AM. I will explain how I have gone about the project in the past and will welcome any suggestions on how to improve going forward. The biggest help is needed to fill the bags and delivery on a given day sometime the second week in December.

Items needed for the bags at this time:  (Mens and Womens items)

Scarves
Hats
Gloves
Socks
Rain ponchos
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Deodorant
Combs
Hand warmers
Chapstick
Shampoo
Individually wrapped snacks
Zip lock bags

9/18/2021 From Phyllis Morris:knapsacks1

I will be filling Nora’s Knapsacks for the homeless again this year. For the past 2 years the residents of our development have been very generous in donating items to fill the knapsacks for many in need. There are so many that are less fortunate than I and helping them is very rewarding. This year the need is even greater.

This  project has grown thanks to Hickory Woods and all who have contributed. Last year a few people offered to help with the project: gathering, sorting and filling the knapsacks before they are distributed by homeless shelters in the area. Because of Covid-19 I felt this would be unsafe in 2020.

I am hoping this year we will be able to gather with those who offered to help. If anyone would like to offer assistance with the project please  contact me and we can set up a meeting to see how to go about the task. Thank you.

Read about the history of Nora’s Knapsacks. 

UPDATE 1/20/2021 from Mary Silva, Volunteer Director of New Horizonsnewhorizons

Hi, Phyllis and friends at Hickory Woods,

First, I want to say how impressed I am with the Nora’s Knapsacks’ donation and the extra goodies we received. Nora must have been a special person to inspire this kind of love. These bags are such a necessity for our programs to have on hand. I also want to congratulate you all for working on this project. Yours will be an example I will use when speaking to others about what can be accomplished when we work together in our community.

This past year has been challenging for all of us. Since the pandemic began, our organization has seen an even greater demand for services. Over the last few months, we bought and renovated a new building for our food pantry, renovated the old pantry space into shelter space for 40 more beds, and opened a winter shelter with 40 beds. Thanks to your help, FIT-NH can reallocate funds to support the new challenges our organization is facing. I wish you and yours at Hickory Woods a healthy and happy New Year.

With much gratitude,
Mary

Mary K. Silva
Volunteer Manager
Families in Transition-New Horizons
122 Market St.
Manchester, NH 03101

noraUPDATE 12/19/2020 from Phyllis Morris: Nora’s Knapsacks were delivered to the homeless shelter on Dec.14th in time to be distributed to many before the snowstorm. Thank you so much Hickory Woods, these will go a long way to keep someone warm this winter.

Picture:
Phyllis and Tom Morris, assisted by Nancy and Gary Mosher deliver Nora’s Knapsacks

knapsacks3

THANK  YOU from Phyllis Morris 12/13/2020:

I truly have no words, but will try!

The response to donations for Nora’s Knapsacks has been simply amazing. I have enough donations to fill 150 + knapsacks. They are filled with wonderful items that will surely bring smiles to those who are in dire need of everything. Warm hats, gloves, scarves, and socks along with toiletries and snacks for days, along with a knapsack to carry it all.

Some of you left items on my doorstep and I did not get a chance to thank you in person and those  that I did meet was so brief. I want you all to know how much I appreciate your generous donations to this cause. It means so much to so many.

All will be given out the week of Dec.14th by the outreach program at Families in Transition New Horizons in Manchester. They are so grateful to the residents of Hickory Woods in a very big way.

A special thank you to Nancy Mosher of Pepper Hill for the help in transporting everything to Manchester.

I would like to extend our wishes to all for a very happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year.

Update from Phyllis Morris 11/29/2020:

The project goal is to have all donations by December 12th – 2 Church Lane. The bags will be going out to Families in Transition New Horizons in Manchester. They have an outreach program that will go along the river and distribute knapsacks to the homeless as well as those who stop in at the shelter. I will fill the knapsacks the weekend of the 12th and 13th with the help of my granddaughters and my daughter and her husband. Anyone can leave donations on my doorstep if I am not home. The biggest need right now is gloves and scarves. Although if I have more socks I will include 2 pairs in the bags as they can always use more than one pair. The response here has been tremendous. I am so blessed to live in this neighborhood!  

From Phyllis Morris, 2 Church Lane:

We will be collecting for the homeless again this year!

Nora’s Knapsacks were distributed to the homeless shelter in Nashua last year and thanks to the Hickory Woods residents, we were able to help so many in need.

This year, the knapsacks will be going to the Manchester area. They are given out to adults, both men and women, who literally are homeless living on the streets with nothing but the knapsack we provide.

Items that are in great need are:   NOTE – Phyllis will accept cash donations

  • Scarves
  • Gloves
  • Hats
  • Socks
  • Individually wrapped snacks such as peanut butter crackers, granola bars

If you would like to donate some items they can be dropped off at my home at 2knapsacks1 Church Lane or I would be happy to pick them up.

We will be bringing them to Manchester to be distributed the week before Christmas.

Thank you so much in advance for anything that can help someone in great need.

Question: May I make a cash donation?
I have been asked that and have not done so in the past as I preferred anyone to purchase what they would like to put in the bags themselves. I think though that this year given the situation with the virus I would accept cash donations and then I would just purchase needed items for the bags on my own. This would make it easier in some ways as sometimes I need a few more scarves or hats or whatever to make the bags all even.

Some background information. Phyllis explained the project in November 2019:

My daughter-in-law passed away from pancreatic cancer a little over a year ago. She was someone who gave to the homeless all year in a big way. Shortly after she passed away her church decided to continue what she did. They had Knapsacks made with her name “Nora’s Knapsacks” and collected many items to put in them. Hundreds were made in Annapolis where she was from. All distributed in that area to people on the street and in shelters.
knapsacks4My granddaughters decided to continue this up here in this area. Last year we put together 75 knapsacks and they went to the Lawrence area. We are hoping to do the same this year. They will go to the homeless shelter in Nashua. I thought that since this community collected for the soup kitchen on occasions that our neighbors might like to donate something for this project.

Annual Meeting 12/10 (Packets mailed 11/18); Proxy voting info; Agenda; Proposed 2026 Budget; BOD nominations

Association News

11/18/2025 from Tori William /Realty Management Partners / 603-206-6832 / Tori.W@RMP-RE.com :
Nominations:…….Wells…….Daniels
Final Notice Packet

The official notice packets [mailed 11/18]…include an individually numbered proxy for your unit. If you think you won’t be able to attend, please return your proxy to us asap so we can get you signed in.
* PLEASE NOTE: The proxy has changed. Please refer to the page of the notice packet with the proxy completion directions to ensure you complete the proxy correctly. Directions on how you can return your proxy are included at the bottom of the page.
* If you haven’t received your packet by next Wednesday, please call or email into me and let me know. In the interim, an electronic copy of the packet (without the proxy) and the nomination form(s) have been attached for your review.
* Enclosed in the mailed packet is your unit’s individually-numbered proxy. If you are unable to attend, please fill out this proxy and get it back to us by 12/9. Instructions for return are listed at the bottom of the form.
* If you have any questions regarding the paperwork side of the annual meeting, please feel free to contact me. If you have any larger questions, please reach out to your property manager: Sted.H@RMP-RE.com.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Budget Proposal: 2026 vs 2025

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Budget Highlights from 2025 and Recommendation to increase HOA monthly payments:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

HW Community Library is open 24/7; Take a “photo tour”

Activities Announcements, HW Little Library

October 2024: Photo Tour of our Community Library. My, how we’ve grown!

The HW Library has a wonderful collection of books (fiction and nonfiction) as well as an amazing array of puzzles. We accept donations – thank you! We focus on “good reads” and have no room for coffee table books, craft books – these will be donated to the Friends of the Leach Library ongoing book sale.

 

4/2/2022 Here we grow again – the HW Puzzle Library

We love to puzzle! Room to grow...donations welcome.

We love to puzzle! Room to grow…donations welcome.

3/2/2022 “Unofficial” Inventory count for our Library WOW!
(not counting books and puzzles that have been borrowed) 

Books: 1,132
Puzzles: 115

2/2/2022 Our Library is Thriving, thanks to GREAT donations.
Grab-and-go…unlimited refills!

hwlibrary

11/13/2021 UPDATE on our PUZZLE LIBRARY puzzles

Thanks to the amazing donations, our Puzzle Library has grown tremendously.

Because of the dramatic expansion, the shelves for puzzles has been relocated to the “meeting room” next to the HW Library.

These puzzles vary in size from 100 pieces to 2000 pieces.

DONATIONS are welcome.

They are ready for you to take home – ENJOY!

puzzlelibrary11/11/2020 Puzzle Business goes “Bonkers”

10/2020 The puzzles are in a different corner of the HW Library. Ready for you.

8/5/2020 Update We received an amazing donation of puzzles and we are IN BUSINESS! Come on in, browse and take an exciting puzzle home.

7/28/2020 Calling all Puzzle Enthusiastshwpuzzlelibrary

The BOD has given the OK to adding puzzles to our library. Great news!

DONATIONS NEEDED! If you would like to donate adult (not children’s) jigsaw puzzles in gently-used condition, please bring them to the HW Library and place them in the corner / book return bin

The basic “ground rules” will be the same as the rest of our library:

  • Puzzles donated will be
    • Evaluated for appropriateness and condition of the box and completeness of the puzzle pieces
    • Marked with stickers, “Hickory Woods Puzzle Library”
  • HW Residents may borrow puzzles
    • There is no checkout procedure – just take it home and enjoy
    • There is no “due date”
    • Return puzzles to the puzzle rack

Ladies Luncheon

Activities Announcements

ladiesevents

There are no scheduled luncheons.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

View the list of previous lunch outings (at the bottom of this page).
Do you have a suggestion for a future restaurant to visit? Let Nancy Shearer know.

2022 Christmas Luncheon at the Coach Stop

2022 Christmas Wine Night and Yankee Swap
 
Thank you, Vern Loschi for hosting.

Wine, Not Whine: Thursday, December 2, 2021 (and Gift Swap) – it was lots of fun. Thanks to Roberta Wells for hosting.

IMG-4217

 
HISTORY OF LADIES’ LUNCH:
Atkinson Resort and Country Club (x2); Backyard Brewery in Manchester; Bedford Village Inn in Bedford; Black Forest Cafe in Amherst; Budweiser Biergarten in Merrimack; Blackwater Grill in Salem; Burton’s in Nashua; Coach Stop in Londonderry (x7); Common Man in Merrimack; Copper Door in Bedford; Copper Door in Salem; Ellie’s Farmhouse in Methuen; Firefly in Manchester; Fratello’s in Manchester; Galley Hatch in Hampton; Giorgio’s in Merrimack; Giorgios in Manchester; Hare of the Dawg in Derry; Homestead in Merrimack; Ignight in Manchester; Irish Cottage in Methuen (x2); Janie’s in Londonderry (x3); KC’s in Manchester; LaBelle Winery in Amherst; La Carreta in Londonderry; Lilac Blossom in Nashua (x3); Lobster Tail in Windham; Lobster Boat in Litchfield (x2); Longhorn Steakhouse in Manchester; A Lot of Thai in Merrimack; Luciano’s in Londonderry (x2); Lui Lui in Nashua; Luk’s Bar & Grill in Hudson; Martha’s Exchange in Nashua; MaryAnn’s Diner in Derry; Masa in Manchester (x2); Nashua Country Club; 99 Restaurant in Londonderry; Pasquale in Londonderry; Not Your Average Joe’s in South Nashua; Olive Garden in Manchester; Owen & Ollie’s in Dracut; Pickity Place in Mason; Portofino in Merrimack; Puritan Room in Manchester; Quill Restaurant at SNHU; Rocco’s in Hudson (x2); Route 110 Grill in Nashua; T Bones in Bedford; T Bones in Hudson; T Bones in Derry; The Holy Grail in Epping; Tokyo’s in Salem; Town Tavern in Hudson; Tuscan Kitchen in Salem; The Shaker Table in Canterbury; The Yard in Manchester
 

Holiday Painting Workshops – Check out the masterpieces; Thank you, Dotty Pullo!

Activities Announcements
The painters in the Wednesday 11/29 class had a great time…and painted some impressive creations

blockDotty Pullo will teach you to paint a snowman bottle or glass block

Workshops:  (Limit 8-10 per session)

  • Wednesday,
    November 29: 1-4 PM
  • Saturday,
    December 9: 9-12 AM
  • Monday,
    December 13: 1-4 PM

 

bottleIf you would like to participate:

  • Sign up – use this LINK
  • Decide which project would you like to make? Buy a block at a craft store or prepare a bottle.  The pattern and instructions are the same.
  • Cost for the class is $12 (pay at the workshop); if you are doing a glass block and want ribbon there is an extra $2 charge for the ribbon. Painting materials are included.
  • Call Dotty Pullo if you have any questions 781-568-1439.  Looking forward to painting together again.

 

 

HW Holiday Party: “Mix and Mingle” December 2nd – Pics in Community Photo Album

Activities Announcements

Saturday, December 2 @ 6 PM – Get ready for an evening of fun…dust off your ugly sweaters and study up on your holiday trivia. 
mixmingle

SEE WHO’S COMING and SIGN UP to help with setup and cleanup LINK
NOTE that you won’t be able to enter your name on the “Who’s coming” but you can add your name to help with setup and cleanup.

THANKS to the party organizers:

Anne Slaney, Ellen Medeiros,  Vern Loschi, Suzanne Daniels, Donna Tuzzolo, Denise Penaskovic, Judy Noonan, Kris Magee, Joanne & Jay Fallon, Sue Orr, Pat Hoopes, Cathy McMullen, Judy Goglia, Janet Armstrong, MaryHelen McGrath,
Phyllis Engleman


Catered appetizer menu: (Remember – BYOB and glass)

  • Antipasti Platter (cheese, fruit, crudité and dips, hummus and tapenades, cocktail Stromboli, marinated and grilled vegetables, tortellini, served with fresh breads, wheat and gluten free crackers.
  • Hot Crabmeat Dip with crackers and Gluten free crackers included.
  • Skewered Tortellini with Lemon-Roasted Garlic/parmesan Dip
  • Swedish Meatballs
  • Melon Wrapped in Prosciutto
  • Marinated Mozzarella, Tomato Fresh Basil Skewered
  • Petite Gourmet Sirloin & Chicken Croissants
  • Spanakopita
  • Vegetable Stuffed Mushroom Caps

10/1 BBQ: Thanks and recap, plus the words to “Elder Quarters” spoof

Activities Announcements

From Vern Loschi: What a wonderful afternoon October 1st for HW residents – On the Patio…Under Blue Skies!blueskies

After a delicious BBQ lunch, the entertainment began. Ellen Medeiros adapted an Allan  Sherman song, “Here I Am at Camp Grenada.” “Here I Am at Elder Quarters” was hilarious and we related to many of the choruses (the song is printed below).

Next, we had a very entertaining round of “Heads Up”. It was quite competitive and ended up with a four way tie and bragging rights for Deb Diamond, Pat Hoopes, Judy Noonan and Roseanne Shanahan.

Corn hole followed that many participated in.

A big thank you to the committee: Vern Loschi, Ellen Medeiros, Anne Slaney, Pat and Jim Hoopes, Judy and Jack Noonan,  Joanne and Jay Fallon, and Tom Barnes.

Thank you to all who attended and enjoyed the afternoon with wonderful neighbors.

ELDER QUARTERSgranada

Adapted from the Allan Sherman song

Hello Sonny, Hello Daughter,
Here I am at Elder Quarters.
It’s so very interesting.
I’m not sure that moving here it was the best thing.

They play ball here with a pickle
And a paddle that’s so little.
It was sad though when poor Mabel
Slipped and fell and now poor Mable is disabled.

Then there’s Golfing, they play often
Rain or sunshine, it’s no problem.
But when lightening struck poor Bobby
He gave up the game and found another hobby,

Take me in, oh son and daughter.
Take me in I’m not a bother.
Don’t leave me out in these quarters
Where they make you want to drink and swear.

They play poker. They play for money.
I lost my shirt and it wasn’t funny.
I can’t pay my HOA fees,
Now they’re banging on my door demanding late fees.

The Directors make the rules so
Violations are a no-no.
If you’re caught then you’ll be punished.
For a month you’re taking out the Clubhouse rubbish.

Oh my neighbor, his name is Irving.
His behavior I find disturbing.
In the woods here he goes creeping.
I think that Irving looks in windows and does peeping.

Take me in, oh son and daughter.
Take me in I’m not a bother.
Don’t leave me out in these quarters
Where they make you want to drink and swear.

How’s the grandkids? How’s their buddies?
How they doing with their studies?
Let me move in with your permission.
I will even pay for all of their tuition.

Wait a minute, I’ve got good news.
A swimming pool here just got approval.
Open bar night will be on Sunday.
And free pizza will be served on every Monday.

Everything is looking good so
I will write soon and let you know
I’m so happy things are better.
Dearest Son and Daughter disregard this letter!

Pickleball!

Activities Announcements, Pickleball

pickleballHickory Woods residents have access to the pickleball court behind our clubhouse.

If you need equipment, there are 3 beginner paddles and balls available in the equipment closet (lower level, beside the elevator).

SignUpGenius is our pickleball scheduling and signups tool – all levels of play.

The link is: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044ca9ab2fabf49-hickory1#/

Any Hickory Woods resident with questions or interest in learning pickleball could contact Pat Pannese abbeysys@outlook.com or Ken Penascovic kpenasko@comcast.net

Patio Party on June 4th – Welcome summer and new neighbors!

Activities Announcements

Relax, unwind, you’re on patio time…welcome our new neighbors!patio

Sunday, June 4th
12 noon, a catered lunch* will be served at 1:00 pm

The cost is $20/pp
Please put cash in an envelope with your name on the front. Deliver the envelope to Anne Slaney (28 Quarry) – a basket will be on the front porch.  Anne will enter your name on this online spreadsheet. See who’s coming!

NOTE:
-> Deadline for signing up is Friday, May 26th.
-> BYOB
-> Seating is limited, so please bring chairs.
-> Bocce and corn hole available!
-> SIGN UP to help with setup on June 4th at 10 AM

*The menu:
Italian cold cut platter, chicken wings, sausage pepper onions, finger sandwiches (egg, chicken, tuna, seafood salad), pickles and olives, garden fresh salad w/ dressing, potato salad, rolls and butter.

Organizers: 
Vern Loschi, Ellen Medeiros, Anne Slaney, Pat Hoopes, Susan Orr, Joanne Fallon

HW Superbowl Pool: Results (besides the KC win!)

Activities Announcements
2/12/2023 WINNERS of the HW Superbowl Pool:
  • First Quarter: Ken Penaskovic
  • Second Quarter: Bob Doyle/Marty Quinn [partnership]
  • Third Quarter: Bob & Maryellen McGrath
  • Final Score: Judy Goglia
2/11/2023 – From John Goglia: The Superbowl Pool is complete. Check out your numbers posted on the wall at the Tavern.
team12sbps
Bob Medeiros & John Goglia will be doing the same 100 square grid pool as usual for this year’s Superbowl (2/12/2023) even though our Patriots will be sitting this one out. 
  • It will cost $2 to put your name in a square. 
  • After the grid is filled we will have a session to randomly put the KC Chiefs and Philly Eagles names on top and side of the grid. We will also randomly put numbers 0-9 on top then bottom. 
  • Winners of each of the first 3 quarters and final score get $50 each. Winning scores are determined by the last digit of each team’s score at the end of each of the first 3 quarters and then the final score. (Example: Eagles 10, Chiefs 3 at end of first quarter whoever has the square intersecting at Eagles 0, Chiefs 3 wins that quarter.)
  • This is all random and luck. You do not get to pick your scores. We will let as many as possible know when we will randomly complete the grid so you can participate if you like.
  • Grid will be at the clubhouse 7-9 Monday through Thursday this week. We will also have the grid available at other events at the clubhouse throughout the week where possible. 
  • If we cannot completely fill the grid all monies will be returned.
  • Let Bob M. or John G. know if you would like to participate but cannot get to the clubhouse.
  • Once the grid is completed it will be at The Tavern in the clubhouse until after the game for everyone to take a picture and have their numbers for the game.

THANK you, Dottie Pullo for the Painting Classes: Check out the wonderful creations.

Activities Announcements

Dottie Pullo invited us to a painting class to create a beautiful glass block. Here are the wonderful creations:

Friday 12/9 Workshop:paintclass2

Monday 12/12 Workshop:paintclass4a

Wednesday 12/14 Workshop:paintclass3a

Bring to the workshop:

  • 7 ½ inch by 7 ½ inch square block to paint on or any other glass surface that will work, such as a glass cookie jar or straight-line vase.  If you need a glass block let me know, they are an additional $6, but I do have some. Call Dottie 781-568-1439 if you want to have one.
  • A few paper towels
  • A small water container for cleaning brushes
  • An apron (optional)

Call Dottie with any questions 781 568 1439.  Plan on having a fun afternoon!

HW 2022 Christmas Party – What fun!

Activities Announcements

THANK YOU! The HW Clubhouse was a-jingling! Such Ugly Sweater fashions! Christmas Trivia! The “Sister Act” (with a couple of drafted singers) was a classic. (Yes, definitely send CASH.) Carolling with Hannah and Jon was extra special and got us all in the holiday spirit. We will never hear the “Twelve Days of Christmas” quite the same, after the HW “flashmob” rendition. Thank you to all who made the evening a wonderful success.

Be sure to check out the pictures from the evening in the “Community Photo Album” under Activities.

It’s time to celebrate the season with our neighbors! 

When: Saturday, December 3, 2022 @7 PMneighborhood

Sign up to bring a hot/cold appetizer, specialty drink or a dessert.

Also needed: Help with setup on 12/3 and cleanup on 12/4

Please sign up by November 30th
(You won’t be turned away if you sign up late, but it sure helps for planning if you can sign up by 11/30 – thanks)

SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT:

  • Ugly Sweater Contest (so drag out your sweater and get ready to strut the runway!)
  • Trivia Contest
  • SURPRISE!

Knit/Crochet Hats for Nora’s Knapsacks: Next Workshop is 12/1

Activities Announcements

11/17/2022: 87 hats have been made for Nora’s Napsacks! knitters2

The crafters will take Thanksgiving “off” and gather for another workshop on 12/1.

Crafters with some of the hats (at right):
Front row L-R: Dale St.Louis, Laura Kuzia
Back row L-R: Vern Loschi, Ellen Medeiros, Roberta Wells, Karen Quinn, Jackie Milone.
Not present for the picture: Leslie Boone, Cherryl Gordon, Shelia Jenkins

11/10/2022: 60+ hats so far! (Update from Vern Loschi)

The knitting and crocheting continues with over 60 handmade hats for Nora’s Knapsacks. The variety of colors is amazing! The next workshop is on Thursday, 11/17 at the Clubhouse.

11/4/2022: Keep on knitting! (Update from Vern Loschi)crafts

We had 11 neighbors at the knitting workshop for Nora’s Knapsacks. This week on Thursday 11/10 the knitting will continue!
 Join a special “Handcrafts” group on November 3rd at 1:00 pm to work on hats for Nora’s Knapsacks. 
  • If you would like to learn to knit or crochet, this is the opportunity. Instructors will teach beginner stitches. Yarn and needles will be provided. Even if you are left-handed, you can learn!
  • If you have patterns for adult winter hats, please bring them to share at the workshop.
  • Every Thursday afternoon at 1:00 PM, neighborhood handcrafters meet at the HW Clubhouse – join in! It’s not limited to knitting and crocheting; feel free to bring your own craft project.
Questions? Contact Ellen Medeiros, Vern Loschi or Nancy Shearer.

Christmas craft workshop on December 8th: Make a Santa Sleigh, all out of candy

Activities Announcements
Laura Kuzia is offering a workshop to make a fun Christmas craft.craft1

When: December 8th, 1 PM @ HW Clubhouse

Bring: Your candy supplies (see list, below) & scissors

No signup is necessary
Questions? Contact Laura 508-847-8263
Lolly1313kuzy@gmail.com

SUPPLIES:
2 candy canes
1 Kit Kat (full size)
10 miniature HERSHEY candy bars
1 Santa Claus candy (about 2-3″ tall)
1 mini gift bow
Double-sided tape
Clear tape

S.C.A.R.E: 2022 Update: Donations accepted any time.

Activities Announcements

pumpkin

From Rick and Monique Pierce
27 Quarry Road
rgpierce@earthlink.net
moniquepierce782@gmail.com

Update 11/5/2022:  Leading up to Halloween 2022, we gave out almost 600 costumes in Manchester and Nashua. We accept any costumes,  sizes infant to 3x adult.  The most popular sizes this year were toddlers and teenagers. We are very grateful for the volunteers for our first SCARE Costume Drive at Londonderry Flea Market.  It was not a successful day for costumes but it was a huge success in other ways. Spending a great sunny day socializing with our neighbors!  THANKS to Kris and Phyllis and to the Londonderry Flea Market. If you missed the 11/5 dropoff, you may leave donations at our home, 27 Quarry Road.

10/6/2022: As many may know Rick and I are Halloween enthusiasts, and we recently joined the board of directors of a great organization- S.C.A.R.E.

S.C.A.R.E stands for Secondhand Costume Annual Redistribution Effort – a long name for a simple concept.  

We believe that all children deserve to enjoy the fun & magic of Halloween, but we also understand that families sometimes need to prioritize food and shelter over Halloween costumes and activities.  S.C.A.R.E. was born so no child feels left out or left behind. Our mission is to provide Halloween costumes and activities to children and families in need in Southern NH. We will collect and distribute both new and used costumes and create free haunt experiences to terrify and delight. https://scarenh.org

 WHAT WE NEED:

  1. We are looking for volunteers to help with a Halloween costume drive.  The Londonderry Flea market has graciously donated the use of their site on Nov 5th for people to drop off Halloween costumes.  We need volunteers to help the SCARE Team with the intake and sorting.   Hours are 10:00am to 1:00pm.   If you can volunteer for a couple hours on Nov 5th to help us receive in and organize costumes at the Londonderry Flea Market,  please contact us.
  2. Help us get the word out. Please let people know about the costume drive on Nov 5th.  Also share our website with friends and family https://scarenh.org   We have posted the schedule for our COSTUME DISTRIBUTION DAYS and SPOOKEVILLE HAUNT.  This year’s theme is “Haunted Acre Woods”

THANKS!

High Water Bill? You may have a leak – How to check

Details of Technical Issues relevant to Homeowners, Maintenance Notices

From Bob McGrath (contact Bob if you have questions):

Are you seeing an unusually high water bill?

  • Check your toilets to be sure that there is not a leak/faulty plumbing
  • If there is no issue with the toiles you may have a leak in the irrigation system.

How do I check to see if there is a leak in my irrigation system?Water meter

  • Check the house water meter.
  • On the meter there is a little red triangle that spins when water is being used. If water is not being used in the house and the red triangle is spinning (maybe slowly) it could mean that water is leaking in the irrigation.
  • To confirm, just shut the valve inside the house that supplies the sprinkler.
  • If the triangle stops spinning, you may have a leak in the system
  • Alliance should be contacted.

At the Clubhouse, there was a leak in the irrigation system; following the procedure (above) was helpful. The procedure was also used by a resident to diagnose a leak.

Severe drought restrictions lifted: Odd/Even watering now in place

Details of Technical Issues relevant to Homeowners, Maintenance Notices
10/4/2022: The Town Council voted at its October 3rd meeting to institute Level 1 watering restrictions, now that we are out of severe drought status.
The restrictions are as follows:
1. Lawn watering by EVEN numbered addresses is permitted on EVEN numbered days.
2. Lawn watering by ODD numbered addresses is permitted on ODD numbered days.
3. Lawn watering shall not occur on any day between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

For additional information please visit the Town’s website or contact Kirby Brown at 603-432-1100 x 120.

Watering-Restrictions

8/22/2022 update: Sted Holton announced that Alliance will adjust your irrigation timer for $30. Contact Sted ASAP
Sted.Holton@NewStarPropertiesNH.com

.

.

The Londonderry Town Council announced on
August 16th
that we will now follow
“Level Two”
Lawn Watering restrictions.

  • Lawn watering by ODD numbered addresses is allowed on Mondays and Thursdays.irrigation
  • Lawn watering by EVEN numbered addresses is allowed on Tuesdays and Fridays.
  • Lawn watering shall not occur on any day between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

How to adjust your Hunter Pro-C control box:

Here is a video that explains how to change the day of watering.

This is the complete manual for the Hunter Pro-C – page 27 explains how to select specific days of the week.

HW Outreach Project: Operation Care for Troops – HUGE THANK YOU

Activities Announcements

THANK YOU, Hickory Woods for your caring and generosity!

Karen Wilson, Vern Loschi, Ellen Medeiros and Ann Perham packed the donations for transport.

We have packed up the socks, trail mix, beef jerky, lotions, protein bars, (ETC) and will be delivering your donations to Brookline NH on Friday 6/17.

Monetary donation totaled $1580.

We collected 200 letters to the troops!

Picture, right: Karen Wilson, Vern Loschi and Ellen Medeiros (and Ann Perham) packed Ellen’s car on Thursday.

From Operation Care for Troops – Thank you notes from the troops!  Page 1   Page 2   Page 3

OCTtrunk2

6/13 to 6/15: THIS IS THE WEEK TO BRING YOUR DONATIONS TO THE CLUBHOUSE

Drop your donation off in the clubhouse entryway 24/7, Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. Letters to the troops go in the collection box, also in the entryway.

 

OPERATION CARE FOR TROOPS  OCTnh.org

Operation Care for Troops OCTnh.org

Operation Care for Troops OCTnh.org

For 19 years, OTC has been sending care packages all over the world to US deployed service men and women. They are a volunteer organization that relies on donations. More than ever, there is a significant need for us to show our support to our troops. 

From the OCTnh.org website: “Operation Care For Troops” began as a family and friends effort to provide needed but not easy to obtain items to the founders’ family members serving in Afghanistan and in Iraq. Soon, the fellow soldiers were requesting items and the grass root effort of the family, friends and local community volunteers were sending care packages to fulfill these requests. 

Letter Writing setup in the HW Clubhouse entryway. Stationery is available and a box to put your letters in. Thank you!

Letter Writing setup in the HW Clubhouse entryway. Stationery is available and a box to put your letters in. Thank you!

The Hickory Woods efforts will be twofold:

  1. Collecting products most requested and needed by our troops (list, below)
  2. Writing personal notes/letters to the troops. See the display in the HW Clubhouse foyer (left). 

PROJECT TIMELINE:  

  • May 1 to June 15: Publicity via Newsletter update, HW website and flyers at the HW Clubhouse
  • May 19 – Thursday morning letter writing workshop
  • June 3 – Friday night social and letter writing 7-9 PM
  • June 13, 14, 15 –  Dropoff at the Clubhouse (Plastic bins in entryway).
    Alternate pickup @ your home – Contact Vern Loschi vern.loschi@gmail.com
  • June 15-16: Packing the donations @ HW Clubhouse
  • June 17: Delivery of goods, letters to Brookline NH 
LINK: OCTnh lists their most recently requested items 

Products most requested and needed by our troops:

HYDRATION POWER DRINKS
(Powdered to be mixed with water)
 * Liquid IV individual packages
* Propel Mix individual packages
* Crystal Light individual packages 
PROTEIN PRODUCTS
Individual packages
(most economical if bought in bulk)
 * Sunflower Seeds
* Mixed Nuts (not canned)
* Corn Nuts
* Peanuts (not canned)
* KARS nut mix (40-50 a box)
* Protein Bars (at least 8 grams of protein) EX: Nature Valley Protein, Pure Protein, Kind; No soft bars – don’t hold up well in shipping
* Beef Jerkey, Slim Jims
OTHER
 * Gum (14-15 per package)
* SPF lip balm (no petroleum please)
* High quality white socks. (Fruit of the Loom, Hanes)
* Hand Lotions (Aveeno, Eucerin, O’keefe’s, Neutrogena) 1.5 -16 oz
* Travel size toothpaste and dental floss
LETTERS/CARDS/NOTES SUGGESTIONS
 * 3-5 letters/cards – encouragement/thanks with your donations (no envelopes)
* Ideas: Write about a crazy pet/friend, how your sports team is doing, living in HW, NH
* Involve grandkids – have them write a simple letter/draw a picture
MONETARY DONATIONS
Note: it costs $20 to ship each box!
 Make checks payable to “Operation Care for Troops.”
Deliver checks to Anne Slaney, 28 Quarry (basket on front porch)
Amazon Wish List: LINK
 Choose YOUR address for shipping
You deliver the donation to the HW Clubhouse on June 13, 14, 15.

The committee: Ellen Medeiros and Ann Perham (Leads); Vern Loschi, Karen Wilson, Cherryl Gordon, Judy Noonan, Mary Doherty, Anne Slaney

THANK YOU – Spring Break, Hickory Woods Style – May 15th @ HW Clubhouse

Activities Announcements

springbreak2HICKORY WOODS SPRING BREAK

Before the beach,
Before the lake,
Time now for
Spring Break!

.

A break from winter,lets-get-together2
Before the heat,
Let’s get together,
Let’s all meet.

DETAILS:

  • Sunday May 15, 2022 @ HW Clubhouse Patio 3 to 5 PM (or whenever)
  • BYOB
  • Seating is limited, so bring a chair
  • Please bring sweet or savory dish (serve 12)
  • There will be a RAFFLE! WON BY PHYLLIS ENGLEMANN

NHPVRTA: 4/18 SB 246 was not recommended for a vote in the legislature

Association News, Hickory Woods News

NHPRTA

4/18/2022 from John Goglia: The Election Law and Municipal Affairs committee voted 10-9 that SB246 is Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL).

4/7/2022 Hearing of SB246 

John Goglia testified on 4/7 before the NH Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee. Listen to the hearing; Senator Birdsell comes in at about 1:15 and delivers some interesting information and also references our HW community. The audio is faint following Senator Birdsell’s testimony but worth listening (it is corrected at 1:52). John’s testimony is at 2:04 and goes through 2:12.

Although SB246 applies to NEW private road construction (and would not affect Hickory Woods directly) it is important. Acknowledging that there are issues with private roads is a huge step toward rectifying problems.

3/29/2022: Please CALL our representatives to support SB246

The Public Hearing is scheduled for next week April 7.  Time is of the essence, so please call the House Representatives below as soon as possible.  Below is a phone script you may use, but if you want to use your own words, feel free to add or subtract.  Do not mention Tax Credits, this Bill is NOT about Tax Credits and we must keep Tax Credits out of the discussion. 

SUGGESTED TELEPHONE SCRIPT: Hello – my name is _________. I am a resident and taxpayer from the Town of _______.  I am calling to ask for your support for SB 246, Qualified Private Communities Act.  I live on a private road and when I moved in, I really had no clue of the costs and risks associated with owning and maintaining a road system.  The cities and towns approve these developments, then they walk away with no responsibility.  In many cases, the roads intentionally do not meet town standards.  This is not good public policy and NHPVRTA is trying to effect positive change going forward.

SB 246 is a BIG step in the right direction towards fairness and equity going forward for private road taxpayers.  It will establish some accountability on the part of private road developers by requiring them to either establish a Capital Reserve Fund or build the road to public road standards. NH needs a private road statute and SB 246 is the answer to that need.   Thank you for your consideration of SB 246.

END OF SCRIPT

If you can find out where they stand on the Bill, that would be great.  But not necessary if you are not comfortable with that.

If they ask questions you cannot answer, please note the question and send it to contact@nhpvrta.com.   We will get back to you with an answer ASAP.

In the case you get through to the representative, after the phone call, send them a thank you email.

Make 3 attempts to get a hold of a live person.  On the first attempt, if you don’t get a hold of a live person, leave a voice mail with your name, town and that you are calling to ask for their support of SB 246.  Give it 1-2 days between attempts.

If after the 3rd attempt you cannot get a live person, read the paragraph highlighted above into the voice mail with your name, town and phone number and follow-up with an email of the same content.

3/28/2022 Message from NHPVRTA

BREAKING NEWS ON SENATE BILL 246 (QUALIFIED PRIVATE COMMUNITIES ACT)

Dear Private Road Taxpayer,

SB 246 (Qualified Private Communities Act) recently passed the NH Senate.  Now it is headed to the NH House of Representatives.  The first stop for SB 246 is the Municipal and County Government Committee.  They will hold a public hearing on the Bill, and shortly after that, they will make a recommendation to the House on the Bill.

We need a private road statute in NH, and this is our big chance. SB246 is mandatory legislation that requires municipalities to require that developers of qualified private road communities build those roads to public standards or fund a Capital Reserve Account (or both if they choose) for the benefit of the residents to maintain and ultimately replace those roads. SB 246 will serve as the foundation for new paragraphs that may include tax credits and other items in the future.

We need your help to get the committee to recommend SB 246.  Please call and / or write the committee members. Phone calls are better than email and keep calling until someone calls you back. For email or letters, ask that your email or letter be made part of the public record. The phone number for the committee is 603-271-3125.  The phone numbers and emails for the most important members on the committee are shown below.  Everyone should call them.

Whether you call or write, let them know that you want them to vote YES on SB 246 because NH needs a Private Road Statute to address the complexities and issues associated with Private Roads, which are increasing in number rapidly and becoming a larger part of the NH Property Tax Base. If you are a constituent of the representatives you call, identify yourself as a constituent, and leave your name, town, and phone number.

3/24/2022 Article from John Goglia:  Private Road Residents Call to Action

 SB 246 as amended and Relative to Qualified Private Communities is legislation that has been passed by the New Hampshire Senate and will be heard by the New Hampshire House of Representatives Municipal and County Government Committee sometime in April. This legislation does not impact current residents living on private roads but through passage the Senate has acknowledged that there is a tax unfairness issue pertaining to many private road property taxpayers. SB 246 is sponsored by Senators Regina Birdsell and Sharon Carson and State Representative Wayne MacDonald. SB 246 would require municipalities to only approve new private roads and related infrastructure which meet public road standards or require developers to fund a capital reserve type of account of at least a 50% estimate of projected cost to replace those private roads and related infrastructure at the time of transition to the ultimate residents based on certain factors.

The reason that this legislation is important to current private road residents is because we need to ensure that future unknowing residents do not have to endure the same legal and financial hardships that have unfairly existed for decades. The New Hampshire Private Road Taxpayers Alliance (www.nhpvrta.com) which has been lobbying for 3 consecutive years to get tax relief legislation passed through the state system believes this is the first step to future success for all private road residents. The NHPVRTA is planning for additional tax relief legislation for next year but more public support is needed now.

The NHPVRTA is asking neighborhoods, communities and organizations who pay the same or more property taxes than public road residents without getting any of the same services to write to all the members of the House Municipal and County Government Committee and all their other State Representatives requesting them to support SB 246. The necessary State contact information can be found by Goggling “gencourt.state.nh.us”. Self-motivated individuals should immediately contact the NHPVRTA if they are interested in assisting in this or future efforts to get some long overdue tax relief for private road taxpayers.

3/11/2022 From John Goglia: For all intents and purposes SB250 (Tax Credit) was recommended for interim study but we have been told that it is dead for this year. The NHPVRTA intends to figure out what legislators didn’t like about the bill and get sponsors to file a more appropriate bill next session (2023). 

ARTICLE John submitted to newspapers: Private Road Legislation Passes NH Senate

In February, the New Hampshire Senate passed SB246. SB246 mandates that municipalities and developers who approve and build future private road communities with four or more residential units must either construct those roads to existing public standards or the developers must fund a reserve account for up to 50% of the cost to replace those roads at the time of completion of the project. Those funds would be turned over to the eventual resident’s association to maintain and replace those private roads going forward. This legislation is meant to reduce the increased proliferation of private road developments which places an unfair tax burden on unsuspecting residents. SB246 was sponsored by Senators Regina Birdsell and Sharon Carson. 

SB250, which would have granted municipalities the authority to offer a tax credit to current residents on private roads did not pass the Senate as amended but recommended for interim study. This was not the expected outcome for SB250 however the NHPVRTA will continue to offer guidance and information to any Senate study of private road issues. Additionally, the NHPVRTA plans to submit further legislation in 2023.

SB246 will soon be scheduled for hearings before a yet to be determined committee in the House of Representatives. Anyone interested in private road legislation should immediately visit www.nhpvrta.com, sign up and follow through with the recommended course of actions.

2/16/2022 Email from NHPVRTA The Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee is recommending to the Senate that SB 250 go to “Interim Study”. Interim Studies are designed to investigate the content of a Bill and make a recommendation. NHPVRTA feels that an Interim Study is unnecessary since we have researched the private road issue for over 2 years.  

We need your help to get these Bills passed.  Please call and / or write your NH Senator NOW because the Senate may vote on these Bills any day now. Phone calls are better than email and keep calling until someone calls you back. Whether email or phone call, identify yourself as a constituent of the Senator, and leave your name, town, and phone number. For email, ask that your email be made part of the public record.

Whether you call or write, let them know that  you want SB 250 to pass as amended and that the Interim Study will add no value.

Here is the link to find out who your Senator is and how to contact them:
The New Hampshire State Senate  NOTE that Londonderry is represented by Senator Carson who is a sponsor of the bill and believes in SB 250.

2/14/2022: ELMA votes

Bad news for residents of private roads! The ELMA (Election Law and Municipalities Affairs) Committee voted on SB 250 – it failed, 2-3. Senator Carson is going to try to introduce the bill before the whole Senate. Stay tuned!

SB 246 passed the ELMA Committee – 3-2.

2/12/2022: Amendments to Legislation

SB246 (Capital Reserve Fund) was basically amended to have municipalities require developers to either build private roads to town standards or establish a capital reserve fund of 50% of the cost to to replace roadways estimated at the time of completion of the project.
SB250 (Tax Credit) was basically amended to require municipalities to offer a tax credit to qualified private road communities based on the community’s prior years costs to maintain roads anBadd some related infrastructure (for communities with public utilities water and sewer) divided by the number of units. The municipality can limit the tax credit to what the municipality reasonably determines it would cost them to provide those same services. The individual residents would still have to apply for the tax credit every year.

2/8/2022  Hearing before the ELMA Committee on SB 250 VIEW ONLINE

  • Hearing Summary: (approximate minute marks are included, below)
    * Opening to 4:40: Senator Carson (spoke in favor of SB 250)
    * 4:40 to 10:00: John Goglia (Tax inequity that private road residents pay double for services; asked for tax break for owners of private road property; detailed the cost of repairing developers’ shoddy road construction)
    * 10:00 to 15:00: Lou Gargiulo (Questions about comparing private vs. non private tx)
    * 15:30 to 21:50: Dick Swett of Vineyards in Stratham (Talked about road construction standards; compared the tax yield for a community of private road property vs “regular” property; points out that private road owners are actually taxed for the property of the roads themselves.)
    * 22:00 to 25:00: Judy Bastian (Lives in an 18 unit private community in Laconia)
    * 25:00 to 32:00: Max Nicewinder (Representing NHPVTRA but also lives in Barrington; inadequacy of private roads for emergency vehicles; buyers are “blind” to the financial burdens of private roads; SB 250 provides a tool for towns to provide tax relief.)
    * 32:00 t 36:00: Katherine Heck (Representing New Hampshire Municipal Association  in opposition to SB 250; concerns include language of the bill; setting tax rates is problematic; determining the cost; appeals process apportioning taxes in condominiums; what is a not for profit entity)

1/25/2022 John Goglia testifies for SB 246 at ELMA Committee hearing 

Thanks to John Goglia for all of his work with the NHPVRTA. View his testimony for SB 246. If you advance the YouTube to about 1:40 you will see John’s testimony – about 15 minutes. NOTE that SB 246 advocates for a capital reserve fund for future  private road communities and would NOT apply to Hickory Woods. The hearing for SB 250 has not yet been set.

1/15/2022 Time to MAIL the Postcards to the ELMA and Email Legislators

Hickory Woods residents paid $860 per household in 2021 that other residents of Londonderry did not have to pay. The cost of road maintenance, snow removal, street lights and fire hydrants is paid for by taxes…unless you live on a private road. Residents of a private road pay the same taxes as all residents, but do not receive the same services.
 
To address this TAX INEQUITIES, the NHPVRTA (New Hampshire Private Road Tax Alliance) has proposed SB250. This bill would allow municipalities the option of allowing residents of private roads a tax credit for snow removal, street lighting, fire hydrants and road repair. 
 .
By now, each of you should have found an “advocacy communication” in your mailbox. Please MAIL the stamped postcard enclosed! It will let the ELMA (Election Law and Municipalities) Committee know that you support SM 250. Be sure to sign it on the back, print your name(s) and add a brief comment. NOTE: If you did not receive your postcard to mail, please let Ann Perham know annbperham@gmail.com.
 .
NEXT STEP is to EMAIL (or telephone) our representatives and senator. Legislators care about constituents’ communications! Here are sample emails that you can copy and paste. Or, use your own ideas/words and write your own email. The addresses of our representatives and senator are below.
 .
SAMPLE EMAILS: 

1/11/2022  QUICK START FOR ADVOCACY: (Email, telephone contact info)

It’s TIME TO ADVOCATE!

ARTICLE by John Goglia 12/17/2021 in Newsbreak (please read and comment) LINK

UPDATE 12/17/2021 from John Goglia

This has been a good week for the NHPVRTA. Our State Senator Sharon Carson along with 2 other State  Senators and 4 House Representatives from Londonderry have sponsored and filed SB 2022-250 relative to a tax credit for qualified private road communities. It would enable municipalities to offer a tax credit but it is not mandatory legislation. This legislation could definitely impact HW.

In addition, State Senator Regina Birdsell, along with Senator Carson and another House Representative from Londonderry have sponsored and filed SB 2022-246 relative to private road communities. This legislation would not impact HW or any existing private road communities. It would make it mandatory for future developers of private road communities to put a certain amount of money into a Capital Reserve Fund to be turned over to the eventual Community Association responsible for maintaining and replacing private roads and related infrastructure. Hearings on both bills will start sometime in early January before the Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee.

I will have much more about the efforts of the NHPVRTA and what HW residents can do to help us draw legislative attention to these bills next week.

UPDATE 10/27/2021 from John Goglia

The NHPVRTA is happy to report that LSR’s have been filed for both our bills prior to the deadline of 10/28/21. Senator Carson has filed a confidential LSR for the Tax Credit Legislation which is a new wrinkle that we were unaware of in the legislative process until now. Confidential filing means there is no LSR # assigned thus preventing the public or anyone else from raising questions or issues until a later date. Some Senators always use this method when introducing new legislation. Senator Birdsell has filed LSR 2022-2951 Relating to Private Communities for the Capital Reserve Fund Legislation.
.
We believe there will be multiple cosponsors from the Senate and the House for both bills once they work their way through the legislative process. The NHPVRTA continues to encourage our supporters to meet with all 24 Senators and as many of the 400 State Representatives as possible to educate them and get their endorsement for this legislation.
 .
None of what we have accomplished so far and what we hope to achieve would be possible without the help of those that would benefit from these changes but we need to do much more in the next few months.

UPDATE 10/13/2021 from John Goglia

Senator Sharon Carson will be filing a Legislative Service Request (LSR) for the Tax Credit Bill in the next 2 weeks. Senator Regina Birdsell will be filing an LSR for the Capital Reserve Bill in the same time period. The LSR is the preliminary step in getting a bill on the Senate docket . This was the easy part. Getting it passed by whichever committee(s) they are assigned to is tougher. Then the full Senate votes and if passed it goes to the full House of Representatives for another vote. If it makes it passed there it goes to the Governor who can still kill it. If he signs it the individual municipalities must also decide to adopt. We have some momentum now but sustaining it will be our biggest challenge but the NHPVRTA has been relentless so far. We have about 350 supporters from approximately 50 individual cities and towns throughout NH but we need to reach many more. We are always trying to recruit volunteers to assist us.

UPDATE 10/10/2021 from John Goglia (NHPVRTA Director and Treasurer):

This Wednesday, 10/13/21 is the first day that a Legislative Service Request (LSR) which is the preliminary process to filing a Senate bill can take place. We think our own Senator Sharon Carson will again sponsor our bills but the NHPVRTA currently has pockets of private road individuals and communities throughout the state trying to meet with their  respective Senators and State Representatives and get them to also sponsor and support our 2 bills.
 .
The first bill is a tax credit determined by each individual municipality which if enacted into law at the state level would also have to be adopted by each municipality and then individual private road taxpayers would have to file for the tax credit every year. We determined that there is a better chance for success if individual municipalities retain some control of this process rather than make it mandatory. This bill would directly affect us at HW.
 .
The second bill requires future developers who build a private road community to create a Capital Reserve Fund based on certain factors at the time of completion so that communities would have some initial seed monies for maintenance and replacement. This bill would not affect existing communities like HW but it is  intended to somewhat restrict the proliferation of the development and approval of private road communities.
TEXT of BILL
 .

Anyone wanting more information should visit our website at www.nhpvrta.com.

UPDATE 8/7/2021 from John Goglia

Bob Mederiros, Matt Niswender of NHPVRTA and I met with Senator Sharon Carson and Senator Regina Birdsell at the HW Clubhouse for almost 2 hours on Friday, 8/6/21. We gave them a tour of the Clubhouse and they took a drive around the community to check out the roads.

(l-r): Senator Sharon Carson, John Goglia, Senator Regina Birdsell

(l-r): Senator Sharon Carson, John Goglia, Senator Regina Birdsell

We told them about two draft bills that the NHPVRTA is seeking sponsors for in the Senate and/or the House for the 2022 Legislative Session. One preliminary bill asks for the state to give municipalities the authority to issue a tax credit for a reasonable amount to be determined by the municipality for services not rendered to private road residents who live in a qualified community. The individual homeowners would be required to file for that tax credit every year.

The second preliminary draft bill asks for developers to create a Capital Reserve Fund in the amount of 50% of the estimated cost of road and infrastructure replacement at the time of transition to be given to the HOA for road issues. Obviously this bill would not pertain to us.
 
The Senators took everything under advisement, asked good questions, made some suggestions and said they would get back to us once they have talked with other Senators and their own constituents in other towns that they represent. They requested some additional information from us which we will provide shortly. We are hoping to be able to work with them on legislation that both sides find appropriate.
 
They did offer that individual homeowners might consider requesting a tax abatement from the town based on land value alone and not including structures for the lack of services not being provided. This idea may have some merit and we will explore.
 .

We told them about the easement at the beginning of Tavern Hill Road for access to the commercial property because the state will not allow access to that commercial property from Rt.102. We told them it doesn’t seem fair that the developer agreed to the easement on our private road and now we have to live with that possibility. They indicated that is a very difficult issue to resolve as they have been involved in somewhat similar circumstances in other towns without success. The State DOT apparently has the last word since Rt.102 is a state road.

Email from NHPRTA 8/12/2021:  NHPRTA Meets with NH Senators to Introduce New Bills

On Friday, August 6, Senator Sharon Sharon Carson (Londonderry) and Senator Regina Birdsell (Hampstead) met for 2 hours with Board members of NHPVRTA at Hickory Woods (Over 55 community) in Londonderry. Also present was a member of the Hickory Woods Board of Directors. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce two (2) draft Bills on private road communities to the Senators.

In anticipation of the 2022 NH Legislative Session, NHPVRTA is seeking sponsorship and support for these Bills from both these Senators as well as other Senators and State Representatives. One bill will allow cities and towns to adopt a tax credit for property owners on private roads. The second bill would require developers of new private road communities to either create a Capital Reserve Fund OR the proposed roadways must meet the current design requirements of public roads.

This meeting with the Senators was very cordial and informational for all parties. The Senators agreed to consult with other Senators and their respective constituents in the other towns they represent to get some feedback before providing any commitment to support either of these Bills.

If you live in Auburn  Londonderry or Hudson Sharon Carson is your Senator.  If you live in Derry or Hampstead or Windham Regina Birdsell is your Senator.  You may contact them to show your support for these Bills.

3/15/2021 Email from the NHPVRTA

Dear Private Road Taxpayers,

During an Executive Session on Tuesday, March 9, the NH Senate Transportation Committee deleted Part IX of SB-131-FN. The committee discussed the concept of revising the Bill to form a Study Committee, but in the end they decided to delete Part IX on Private Roads.

Those wishing to reach out to the committee may do so by using the information shown below. We especially encourage you to contact the Chair and Vice-Chair with your comments and questions about their decision.

If any new information develops, we will send out a communication. For the foreseeable future, NHPVRTA leadership will be formulating our strategy for the next legislative session.

Thanks to all who supported the Bill,
NHPVRTA

SENATE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE:

  • Senator Regina Birdsell (Chair of Committee)
    District 19: Derry, Windham, and Hampstead
    Phone: 603-271-2609
    Email: Regina.Birdsell@leg.state.nh.us
  • Senator David Watters (Vice Chair of Commmittee)
    District 4: Barrington, Dover, Rollinsford, Somersworth
    Phone: 603-271-2104
    Email: david.watters@leg.state.nh.us
  • Senator Ruth Ward
    District 8: Croydon, Newport, Unity, Acworth, Stoddard, Antrim, Deering, Weare, Bradford, Sutton, Newbury, Springfield, New London, Sunapee, Goshen, Grantham, Lempster, Washington, Marlow, Hillsboro, Langdon, Windsor, Bennington, Francestown
    Phone: 603-271-2609
    Email: ruth.w ard@leg.state.nh.us
  • Senator Denise Ricciardi
    District 9: Bedford, Dublin, Fitzwilliam, Greenfield, Hancock, Jaffrey, Lyndeborough, Mont Vernon, New Boston, Peterborough, Richmond, Sharon, Temple, and Troy
    Phone: 603-271-4151
    Email: Denise.Ricciardi@leg.state.nh.us
  • Senator Tom ShermanDistrict 24: Greenland, Hampton, Hampton Falls, Kensington, New Castle, North Hampton, Newton, Rye, Seabrook, Stratham and
    South Hampton
    Phone: 603-271-7875
    Email: tom.sherman@leg.state.nh.us 

3/9/2021 Update from John Goglia

Some unfortunate but not totally unexpected news today. The Senate Transportation Committee held an online Zoom Executive Session this afternoon to discuss the various parts of the above Omnibus Bill.
As to section IX on private roads they were considering to send it to a study committee due to the strong support and extreme complexity of this legislation. However, they ultimately decided to delete it from passing through to the entire Senate.
The NHPVRTA has learned a tremendous amount of information about this issue and the legislative process which can only be beneficial going forward. That being said we hope to move forward but we do need some fresh perspectives and new energy. Anyone interested in assisting in pursuing this further should contact the NHPVRTA at www.nhpvrta.com 

The NHPVRTA will be following up with the  5 Senate Members of the Transportation Committee as to their specific reasons for deletion.

3/5/2021 Update from NHPVRTA

The Public Hearing for SB-131-FN in front of the Senate Transportation Committee took place on March 2nd at 1:15 PM. Part IX of this Bill would require NH Municipalities to either maintain private roads in the same way as public roads or provide tax credits to private road taxpayers. If you want to watch the Hearing you can replay the recording at this link.  For Part IX, fast forward to the 2 Hour and 11 minute mark of the recording.

3/3/2021 Feedback from John Goglia on 3/2 testimony:

We had to wait over 2 hours for our part of the omnibus bill to be introduced. Several people spoke in support and last one was from the NH Municipal Association who opposed. We thought our points were made but committee members seemed to lose interest due to total length of hearing. Opposition stated if the legislators allowed this to pass there would be utter chaos, it would cost municipalities tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars and claimed it is unconstitutional to use tax funds for private road purposes. We think we can refute those statements but we are trying to figure out best way to handle.
Short story it appeared to the NHPVRTA that the Committee was looking for a reason to kill our part. It doesn’t look good. The NHMA spokesperson did tell the committee citizens can ask Towns to take over their roads but they have to meet town standards.

2/27/2021 From the NHPVTRA Board of Directors

Dear Private Road Taxpayers,

Senate Bill SB 131-FN is scheduled for a Public Hearing in front of the Senate Transportation Committee on March 2nd at 1:15 PM. Part IX of this Bill would require NH Municipalities to either maintain private roads in the same way as public roads or provide tax credits to private road taxpayers.

You can make a difference in our effort to get SB 131-FN Part IX approved by the Senate Transportation Committee in two ways:

1. Testify at the Hearing via Zoom in support of SB 131-FN Part IX. (NOTE: no additional speakers are needed)

To view/listen to this hearing on YouTube on 3/2 and 1:15 PM, use this link.

2. Email members of the Transportation Committee urging them to support the Bill using the link directly below. We recommend you email the Entire Committee.

Together we can begin to rectify the unfair situation faced by NH private road taxpayers. But we need broad support.

POSSIBLE EMAILS TO SEND (copy and paste; edit as desired): #1 EMAIL    #2 EMAIL

2/18/2021 from John Goglia:
HERE is a copy of the private road bill filed yesterday by our Senator Sharon Carson, Londonderry. Unfortunately it was combined with 8 other bills but that is what we have to work around. To summarize as briefly as possible, SB-131-FN, Part IX basically authorizes municipalities to provide qualified private road communities with the same services that municipalities provide to residents on public roads to include snowplowing, road repair, road replacement and maintenance of certain corresponding infrastructures such as municipal water and sewer systems. In lieu of providing those services the municipalities would have the option to offer individual private road homeowners a property tax credit representing the municipalities estimated costs of providing those services. The credit would not be automatic but rather we would individually have to apply for the credit much like the veterans property tax credit.2/18/2021 From John Goglia – PLEASE ADVOCATE for the new bill:

So now comes the hard part, trying to convince our legislators in Concord that they must pass this bill. To do that I am asking you to do two things:
  • Visit   www.nhpvrta.com and sign up to get notifications about the progress of the bill. This also allows the NHPVRTA to speak on behalf of as many private road homeowners as possible before the Senate Transportation Online Hearing on Tuesday, 3/2/21 at 1:15pm. Those of you who already signed up will get further information from the NHPVRTA.
  • Use this link to request every member of that committee to support passage of SB-131-FN, Part IX.  Click on “Email all members” to send a message to all on the Transportation Committee.

2/14/20201 PLEASE SIGN UP on the website http://www.nhpvrta.com to receive regular updates. To date, we have 15 HW units represented. We need 98!

2/6/2021 John Goglia explains the purpose and goals of the NHPVRTA  http://www.nhpvrta.com in this video. Text, below.

John’s message:
If you live on a private road, you are aware of the unfair financial and legal burdens associated with those roads compared to public roads. Generally speaking, private roads are not as safe not as durable as public roads yet property taxes are the same for both types of roads. Private road developments are a huge financial bonanza to the municipalities that approve them and the developers who build them because neither has any financial or legal responsibilities after occupancy. Allowing substandard roads and corresponding infrastructure is not good public policy especially for the residents who ultimately bear the costs.

There is a state-wide nonprofit organization trying to rectify this injustice. Soon, a bill similar to what has already become law in New Jersey and Maryland will be filed in the NH Senate. Please take the time and sign up for our mailing list on www.nhpvrta.com so that you can be advised of the progress of the bill. Helping to support this common cause could mean substantial long term financial savings for all of us.

1/31/2021 John Goglia asks us all to, “show support for the forthcoming private road bill by signing up on www.nhpvrta.com asap.”

12/16/2020 UPDATE from John Goglia:

  • Senator Sharon Carson of Londonderry has filed a Legal Service Request (LSR) this week which is the preliminary step to filing a bill in the NH Senate addressing issues of importance to owners of property on private roads such as in Hickory Woods (HW). Those issues include property tax assessments, road maintenance, snowplowing, water and sewer infrastructure, lighting and road safety. Once the Legal Legislators in Concord complete the exact bill wording the NHPVRTA will be notified of the bill number, probably early January.
  • The NHPVRTA of which I am now a Director and Treasurer is trying to bring attention to the extra expenses incurred by all owners of property on private roads throughout NH. We currently have supporters in over 20 cities and towns represented by over 200 individuals and growing but we need more.
  • I would ask that everyone in HW go to our website at NHPVRTA.com and complete a contact information form so that we can speak on behalf of as many private road residents as possible when a hearing takes place sometime early next year. This is an opportunity for all of us to voice our concerns at a level that has the authority to rectify any injustices that we can document and articulate.
  • I also would encourage anyone that is interested in helping the NHPVRTA on a limited basis to contact me.
  • I will keep HW informed as this legislation hopefully progresses through next year.

10/31/2020 UPDATE: Our own John Goglia is now a member of the NHPRTA and is its Treasurer. He passes along this information:

  • Check out updated website at www.nhpvrta.com
  • Sometime after the election a new bill will be introduced in the House of Representatives to form a committee to study the fairness and issues of private roads in NH and hopefully make recommendations somewhere between alleviating the unfairness or banning the future construction of more private roads.
  • As to the Londonderry Senior Community Coalition we are attempting to obtain information about what the other Over 55 Communities do to get applicants for their BOD and what the older communities have done in the way of road maintenance. This information could help the newer communities make better strategic decisions to preserve our roads. We intend to explore other common issues to use the experience of other communities to help all of us avoid mistakes.
7/2/2020 UPDATE:  Unfortunately due to the impact of Covid 19 the NH Legislature has been addressing more priority issues. HB 1490 to form a committee to study the taxation of owners of property on private roads which passed the House of Representatives in January has been “laid down” and will have to be refiled. The NHPVRTA which has been the driving force behind this legislation will file an amended bill either in the House or Senate at the appropriate time. Our own State Senator Sharon Carson has offered to sponsor an amended bill if she wins reelection in September.
The NHPVRTA is currently using the Covid 19 down time to broaden their state-wide support base and is looking for volunteers to assist in that endeavor. Please contact John Goglia for further information.

Also the Londonderry Senior Community Coalition (LSCC) comprised of all 11 Over 55 Londonderry communities held a virtual meeting  6/24/20 the first since February, 2020. This group is formulating a mission statement and election of officers to collectively represent the concerns of our communities.

4/29/2020 UPDATE: 

The NHPVRTA website is now available: http://NHPVRTA.com
~ Promoting fairness and equity for Private Road Taxpayers

2/21/2020 UPDATE:

The NH Private Road Taxpayer Alliance (NHPVRTA) recently advised us that on 2/18/20 the House of Representatives, Municipal & County Government Committee (MCGC) in Concord passed HB1490 to establish a committee to study the taxation of owners of property on private roads by a vote of 12 to 6.
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HB1490 will now move on to a vote by the full House of Representatives at some future date. In the meantime anyone wishing to support this bill should contact any or all 7 State Representatives from Londonderry (listed, below).  Contact info for all NH representatives is on the NH House of Representatives website. State Rep Tom Dolan is on the MCGC and is also a member of our Town Council. Dolan supports the bill.
SAMPLE EMAILS that you could send are listed below
In addition,  there is another bill, HB1533 limiting property tax increases to 1% per year to all individuals 67 years of age and older and others with disabilities before the MCGC that has been heard but not ruled on yet. Although we were recently made aware of this particular bill by the NHPVRTA, no particular individual is monitoring it for us at present.

Questions? Contact  John Goglia, 603-203-4888

RECOMMENDED EMAILS TO SEND TO LEGISLATORS: Modify as you wish

Short Email 

Thank you for considering HB 1490, An Act to establish a committee to study the taxation of property owners on private roads.  Taxation of Private Roads needs to be studied. Private Road taxpayers do not have access to the same services as our counterparts that live on Public Roads, and from that stems many issues, including but not limited to unfair taxation and the safety of private roads. This is a statewide problem that needs to be addressed. I ask you to vote in favor of this Bill.

Thank you for considering my thoughts on HB 1490,

YOUR NAME HERE
Your Street and Town

Longer More Detailed Version

I am writing to ask for your support of HB 1490 – AN ACT establishing a committee to study the taxation of property owners on private roads. New Hampshire has seen a proliferation of private road residential communities. Residents of these private roads are charged the same tax rate as residents of public roads, but are denied access to the same services offered to public road residents. Specifically those living on private roads must pay for all costs associated with the road including plowing, installation and replacement of drainage culverts, plant control, and repaving the road while the cities and towns provide those services to public road residents. That does not seem to be fair or equitable.

In addition, there appears to be a trend toward an increase in the approval and building of private road developments. I do not believe that tax payers in these private road residential developments have been fairly represented by the developers, planning boards and town and city councilors. Developers maximize land use by clustering homes in these developments which help maximize the developer’s profit and compromise the quality and safety of the roads in those private communities. The city/town gets increased tax revenue without the responsibility of taking care of the roads and in some cases utility infrastructure. Everyone wins except the private road residents. 

Finally, some private roads are such that emergency vehicles may not be able to service homes located on them.  There are many issues that need to be addressed, and since the issues vary across the State, the right thing to do is for the State Legislature to form a committee to study the problems associated with private roads in NH, especially the lack of access to services that are provided to public roads.

Thank you for considering my thoughts on HB 1490,

YOUR NAME HERE
Your Street and Town

Wednesday February 19, 2020

Neighbors,

Yesterday at our Board meeting, Bob Medeiros spoke briefly about HB1490.  This bill would create a committee to study the taxation of private roads.  The information below is from NHPRTA and is requesting your support and assistance.

Sincerely,

Your Hickory Woods Board of Directors

Dear NH Private Road Taxpayers,

Please take a few moments to draft and send an email to the committee that will be deciding HB 1490, the Bill that will create a committee to study Taxation of Private Roads.   Tell them why you want them to support HB 1490.

 NHPVRTA

 The email address for the committee:  HouseMunicipalandCountyGovt@leg.state.nh.us

If you want to email individual members, their names and email addresses are shown below:
Marjorie Porter(D)           Marjorie.Porter@leg.state.nh.us
Susan Treleaven(D)        streleaven@comcast.net
Julie Gilman(D)               Julie.Gilman@leg.state.nh.us
David Meader(D)             David.Meader@leg.state.nh.us
Paul Dargie(D)                Paul.Dargie@leg.state.nh.us
Jim Maggiore(D)             Jim.Maggiore@leg.state.nh.us
Donna Mombourquette(D)         Donna.Mombourquette@leg.state.nh.us
Laurel Stavis(D)              Laurel.Stavis@leg.state.nh.us
Tom Dolan(R)                 Tom.Dolan@leg.state.nh.us
Vincent Paul Migliore(R) vpmigliore@leg.state.nh.us
Mac Kittredge(R)            Mac.Kittredge@leg.state.nh.us
John MacDonald(R)        John.MacDonald@leg.state.nh.us
Mona Perreault(R)          Rperre4474@aol.com
Tony Piemonte(R)           Tony.Piemonte@leg.state.nh.us
Kevin Pratt(R)                 Kevin.Pratt@leg.state.nh.us
Tony Lekas(R)                rep.tony.lekas@gmail.com
Max Abramson(L)           Max.Abramson@leg.state.nh.us

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If you have linens that you no longer use and would like to donate, please contact Maryellen McGrath, 16 Tavern Hill Rd., 603 930 9937, memkng@msn.com.

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