We all need extra love this year. The Sandwich Woman's Club  wants to make sure that all families with children from birth through grade 6 get a little extra community attention and some holiday joy.  

The list of children and families includes all children in Sandwich from birth through Sixth Grade no matter where they go to school. Children who are younger siblings of children at the Sandwich Central School and all students at the school are included as well as all Children at the Sandwich Children's Center and their siblings. Grandchildren who are in town can be accommodated. If you are a family who is new to Sandwich, or if you know of a new neighbor, or child, please let Diane Johnson(284-7168 call/text, [email protected]) know their name and age so a bag can be made up.

The annual Christmas/Holiday Party will happen. However, it cannot be the same type of gathering as in the past due to Covid.  Modifications have been made to have a socially distant and safe event on Saturday December 19, from 1-3 pm.  Families are invited to come to the area around the Library, Tennis Courts, and Quimby Field. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be outside the Library to visit with and wave to children and to accept Christmas wish lists in a container destined for the North Pole and later reading from Santa. Elves have prepared gift bags for each family and contactless distribution is planned.  The wicked weather/snow date will be Sunday, December 20, from 1-3.

Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, the Sandwich Super Sew-ers 4-H Club and Club Sandwich 4-H are preparing a delicious Spaghetti Supper to honor veterans and first line helpers. Dotty Burrows and her 4-H Sewing Group have been hosting these suppers for many years. Usually, the community gathers and enjoys a homemade supper with veterans while the 4-H youths serve and wait tables. This year the supper is take out only because of COVID. 

Veterans and First Line Helpers are guests and will enjoy their meal at no charge. Everyone else is invited to order and enjoy a meal and support this supper while thanking our Veterans and Helpers. the cost is $8.00 for adults and children under 12 are $3.00. 

Dotty Burrows, and 4-Hers will spend Wednesday afternoon safely preparing sauces, spaghetti, homemade rolls, and desserts. Suppers may be pre-ordered by calling Dotty Burrows at 603-247-5270. Placing your order well ahead helps Dotty and the kids know how much food to prepare. Please let Dotty know how many dinners you want, and if you want meat sauce or meatless sauce. Give her the time you plan to pick up the meals and call her when you arrive at the Methodist Meetinghouse. A 4-Her member will bring your meal(s) out to your vehicle.  

Suppers may be picked up on Wednesday, November 11 between 4:30 and 6:30 pm. The Methodist Meetinghouse of the Community Church of Sandwich is on Main Street (Route 109). The kitchen is in the basement and is most easily accessed from the back parking lot. Take Church Street and just beyond the OLD Fire station there is a driveway on the right that takes you to the back of the church. The new granite steps to the front of the church are arriving Monday 11/9. The exit to the church parking lot is on the side of the church. 

Julie Deak writes: Started over 40 years ago by a enterprising group of local craftspeople, Sandwich Christmas in the Village has grown into a two-day holiday tradition, expanding and reinventing itself with each new generation. Keeping with tradition, the 44th Annual Sandwich Christmas in the Village will be held the weekend of December 5th and 6th.

Things will be a little different this year, as we face the challenge of organizing in a way that will help to keep customers and vendors safe. Detailed plans are still in the works, but we do know there will be return to smaller venues, and for the first time, some craftspeople will be “virtual” participants - selling their work only online.

Partridge Hill Farm is one location providing socially distance spaces for 4 vendors from Sandwich. Juli Hird will have her “woolery” open selling fleeces and roving for hand-spinning and quality yarns from her flock of Romney, Merino, and Romney-Dorset cross sheep.

In the spacious barn, will be Marci Greene selling her modern everyday bags handmade with lots of love, and Rachel Bartlett offer her high fired, functional ceramics, designed for everyday use. Donna and Ken Carlucci from Kindred Spirit Farm will be there as well with herbal soaps, scented candles and gourmet dog treats, along with warm, hand-knit hats, wool dryer balls, and yarns from their Fine Fleece Shetland sheep and nesting balls for your fine feathered friends.

That’s just a sample of what will be happening. As plans progress, all the details will be posted on the Christmas in the Village - Sandwich NH Facebook page, including a list of locations and links to virtual booths online. For more information, please contact Diane Johnson 603-284-7168 (call/text)  or email Julie Deak at [email protected].

September 29: Fall colors have arrived early and remind us of the seasonal shift in town priorities. During our regular meeting, we completed our sealed bid process for abandoned boats from Little’s Pond and if you might be interested in a canoe or kayak at a great price please examine our remaining inventory at the Transfer Station. We plan to liquidate all inventory later in October – stay tuned!
 
Julie Dolan provided a Broadband Advisory Committee update and reviewed ongoing work to secure new sources of federal funding while also voicing continued support of the NH Electric Co-op’s ballot initiative that will enable it to act nimbly upon opportunities to support broadband efforts within member towns. The Co-op owns most of the power poles in town. The Selectmen enthusiastically support this initiative and the creative and dogged dedication of the Broadband Committee.
 
Three community members have graciously offered to participate in the 2021 budget season that is scheduled to kick-off Tuesday October 13th at 5 pm; we are excited to work with Griff O’Brien, Julie Dolan, and Roger Plimmer as we look ahead to what is shaping up to be a financially uncertain year. As the Selectmen consider weighing capital and operating expenses, we have also begun building tours to better familiarize ourselves with the needs of town buildings. As always, our goal is to strike the delicate balance between keeping our tax rate low while providing quality municipal services. As a reminder (approximately): 43% of your property tax goes to support our local schools, 34% to support the town, 15% to state education, and 8% to Carroll County.
 
Combining resident input and their own deep understanding of traffic issues, Road Agent Jon Peaslee and Police Chief Varney provided recommendations on intersections in town, such as the intersection of Quaker Whiteface and Stevenson Hill roads, that would benefit from Stop Signs. Balancing public safety with a reluctance to put up too many signs, the Board agreed it be prudent to proactively place signs at selected intersections, particularly given the increase in traffic that we experienced this year.

Selectman Horn updated the Board on a much needed paving project at the Central Fire House. The Highway Department will be working to support the Fire Department’s paving project and we look forward to the project’s completion before plowing season is upon us. As a reminder, this is a good time to think about preparing your car for winter. We live in a rural mountainous town and depend on residents to understand the tricky challenge of winter road conditions and support our road crew that works day and night to serve our community.
 
As the weather gets cooler and tax season approaches, the Town administration is devising a Town Hall re-opening plan, mindful of safety precautions and subject to modification; under current conditions, Town Hall is scheduled to open for Tuesdays and Thursdays only starting Tuesday October 13th. As a reminder, all town business is still conducted by phone, mail, or outside.
Our Town Clerk/Tax Collector and elections team received much positive feedback regarding residents’ experiences casting Absentee Ballots last Saturday. Staff have been working diligently to ensure an efficient and smooth voting process in the safest manner possible this season and we greatly appreciate the Sandwich Fair Association’s willingness to support this major lift.
 
In an effort to support our town employees, we are reviewing HR processes and procedures to enhance productivity, support resilient problem-solving, and encourage a heart of service to our town, our residents, and fellow town employees. Our workforce is deeply proud of our town and genuinely appreciates your support and understanding. We accomplish everything that a larger town is expected to do, only with fewer staff. 
 
Lastly, the Board engaged in ongoing discussion to address a property which was improved without advanced approval from the Town. The owner is working to bring the property in compliance; as a reminder, town staff are happy to answer any questions regarding permitting, current use and other related property improvement questions. There is much information also available on the town website: www.sandwichnh.org.   
 
Stay well,
 
Board of Selectmen

Center Sandwich, NH, – Off The Dock Players are at it again—this time, on the porch! After the success of such thought-provoking plays as The Humans, by Stephen Karam and A Doll’s House, Part 2, by Lucas Hnath, the troupe is producing a Covid-careful, slightly immersive, outdoor theater experience including two one-act plays written by the inimitable Tennessee Williams. Starring in At Liberty and Something Unspoken are Ashley Bullard, Rebecca Cole, Marena Harris and Lisa Thompson. The production will be directed by Nancy Blaine.

A mother waits for her daughter who is out too late on a chilly southern night. A secretary avoids her employer’s insistence to verbalize what she does not dare. Tennessee Williams is known for exploring the depths of the human condition with dialogue so sharp and telling that we might find ourselves a little embarrassed at the truths he reveals. All with a lyrical southern sarcasm that makes you laugh out loud at the audacity with which his characters speak to one another. Audacity and truth—two characteristics of any Tennessee Williams play.

In these socially-distant pandemic times, Off the Dock is carefully managing seating (limited tickets), offering a pre-packaged southern-type picnic snack on the lawn, with an elevated porch as the perfect stage for two funny, yet deeply moving, southern tales of discontent.

The first weekend performances on 9/25 and 9/26 are at the Cole home at 161 Holderness Road in Center Sandwich. The second weekend performances on 10/3 and 10/4 will be performed at the beautiful Highland House in Tamworth. Picnic and seating begin an hour before each performance and the running time of the 2 one act plays is one hour.

“We wanted to reach out to our two nearby communities because the actors’ residences are split between Sandwich and Tamworth,” said Nancy Blaine. “Additionally, we love to collaborate with local businesses and offer an experience as much as a play. This production, due to the pandemic, has forced us to rethink staging, and what works better than Tennessee Williams on a porch?! I have always been interested in working in less traditional theater environments and Rebecca’s porch along with Dale’s barn seemed like a perfect start.”

Tickets can be purchased at offthedockplayers.com and show times/venues are as follows:  Cole Residence, 161 Holderness Road, Center Sandwich, September 25th and 26th, 5:30 picnic/6:30 show. A Sunday, September 27th matinee has been added due to the demand for tickets.

The Highland House, 654 Cleveland Road, Tamworth NH, October 3rd at 5:30/6:30 and October 4th matinee at 3:00/4:00

NOTE: We are delighted at the response!  Sold out shows for Friday and Saturday and an added show for Sunday at 3:00 (tickets still available). We also have some seats available for our October 3rd and 4th performances in Tamworth. 

By Diane Cook Johnson

There is no mistaking that fall is coming. The sky is blue and the sun hits the earth at angle that makes the world look in exceptional focus. There is also a special sound that the crickets make that reminds me of my youth and going back to school. I can just about taste the Wonder bread with homemade butter and juicy tomato slices; it was a soggy yet delicious lunch made only in September.

My mother's other special lunchbox sandwich was Spam and jam; it really was quite tasty especially when it was made with the foam left after the homemade jam was poured into jars. Coming home from school on the bus in September, my mother was often standing at the corner of the porch chopping tomatoes, peppers, and onions to make one of her many batches of "chili" . I grew up on a farm in Massachusetts and I have very special memories of that time and place. Thankfully, my brother keeps Cook's Valley Farm going.

Photo above: Winter 1966,  L-R Diane Cook (age 9) Uncle Ted Koza, sister (Grace) and brother Warren Cook on a walk in a meadow behind Cook's Valley Farm in Wrentham, MA. Uncle Ted was a middle school science teacher near Little Falls, New Jersey. Every excursion with him included a camera and a bag of apples.

Ted would come up at least once a month to see his parents, my mother and us. He always had us on the look-out for science and things to bring back to his classes. In August and September, he would give us a $1.00 for each Monarch Butterfly caterpillar we caught for him during his visit. He offered us more each month until a caterpillar was worth $100 in January. We looked; but we never found any $100 caterpillars.

I know the children of Sandwich will have fond memories of their time growing up here. This morning at the Sandwich Beach, I met a man who grew up in Sandwich  and after graduating from Inter-Lakes he lived in cities for many years. He was coming home to this area for a simpler life and he was fondly telling stories of his youth, family, friends, and Sandwich. This afternoon, on the town green, I saw a young boy go over to another boy of similar age (about 7, I imagine) and introduce himself. As the first boy approached the second, they both made sure their masks were on properly, looked at their moms and then quietly  played with sticks and pebbles.

This fall school and childhood look quite a bit different than ever. Rest assured; good, unique, and interesting memories are being made despite the pandemic, politics, and tensions. May you look for and find the good.

You are invited to attend a poetry reading of Deep Beauty, by Rosemary Winslow and Catherine Lee (editors) on Friday, September 4, 12:00 noon  on the Quimby Green in front of Sandwich Home Industries. Please feel free to bring a chair and lunch if you like. Rain date September 5, at 4 pm.

Poets from Sandwich and Tamworth are included in the new book, Deep Beauty. Rosemary Winslow, editor, will introduce the book and poets will read excerpts. Books will be on sale at the reading and inside the League of NH Craftsmen gallery (Sandwich Home Industries).

About Deep Beauty: As our global discourse continues to be dominated by border walls, white nationalism, sexual assault, and autocratic leaders, many of us find our basic human values under constant attack. Deep Beauty is one collective attempt to counteract this discourse. The essays presented herein offer curious and thoughtful inquiries into experiences of wonder and beauty through the eyes of a diverse group of beholders, at a time when such considerations are often lacking from public discourse.

These writers help create an emotional and psychological space for us to meditate on how peace, safety, compassion, and dignity are integral to a fulfilled and fulfilling life. These essays examine beauty from a number of different perspectives, including the arts, culture and counter-culture, the physical world (from our individual bodies to our embattled planet), successes and failures, remoteness, and spirituality. This collection is perfect for students of writing and philosophy--and for anybody who needs a moment of respite from the chaos exploding in the world around us.

League of NH Craftsmen Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, 32 Main Street
Center Sandwich, NH 03227 www.centersandwich.nhcrafts.org Follow us on Facebook! OPEN for our 94th season . 2020 hours Thursday - Saturday 12:00 - 5:00

This Fall Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery is featuring the work of three local artists who are successfully emerging onto the NE art scene. The last exhibit of the season opens on Labor Day Weekend and continues throughout the month of  September. Ashley Bullard, Liz Wilson and Valerie Vermeulen are all from the Lakes Region. Each of their paintings reflects their very personal journeys connecting them to the world around them.  The exhibit is colorful, contemporary, playful and highly creative. 
 
Ashley Bullard lives and works in Sandwich.  Bullard’s abstract landscapes are painted with energy and emphasize color and texture to achieve their mark.  The series at the gallery this summer is about Ice Out on Squam Lake.  The subtle reflections seen in the snow and ice as it cracks and melts are rendered in delicate hews that transfer via the artist’s brush to canvas.   One can feel the cracks in the jagged lines and smell the spring in the pastel palette.   Bullard spent many days last spring perched above Squam Lake  watching the lake melt.  These painting are about new beginnings.

Liz Wilson lives and works in New Hampton.  Her work is colorful, active and to a degree playful.  It engages the viewer in a conversation, an invitation to look deeper and enjoy.   Wilson’s words best describe her work: These paintings are impressions of my experience in the world at a specific moment.  When I am able to focus inward, I see in my minds’ eye my sensory experience translated into shape and color.  This experience is a part of my reality: it is the author, creator of my painting language. In the process of making the images I simplify and to a degree caricaturize my experiences.  The source of the images is specific. However, what I am depicting is the sensation that I took from the moment.”

Valerie Vermeulen lives and works in Holderness.  The subtle color and undefined shapes in her abstract landscapes challenge, soothe and engage.  Vermeulen talks about her work: “I spend my days studying and recording the constant, subtle, changing elements of nature and life. My work provides a nostalgic sense of place and simplicity, yet is ultimately defined by the infinite. I hope to elevate the viewer, both aesthetically and spiritually. The images are reflective, surreal, and organic in nature. The work also explores the mystery and the solitude of the anonymous human experience. I am driven to capture the changing atmosphere and the endless nuances of a landscape, both physical and psychological, to reveal the truth of a limitless reality. In the image, a dream is reflected, and the esoteric quality of a moment has been remembered. 

Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery is located at 69 Maple Street in Center Sandwich.  Gallery hours are from 10 to 5 Monday through Saturday and 12 to 5 on Sunday.  You will also find work by all our artists on line at patricialaddcaregagallery.com. 

Editor's note: This letter was posted on August 7. The Town Clerk wants everyone to be aware that the State's requirements are subject to change. You can always check with her if you have any questions. Phone number below.

Holding an election in the midst of a pandemic offers a series of challenges to those of us charged with overseeing these events. It is important that everyone who wants to has the opportunity to cast their ballot while also considering the health and welfare of poll workers and voters. Twice in the next few months, on September 8th for the State Primary Election and then on November 3rd for the General Election for all Federal and State offices, the Town will face the difficulty of balancing these important goals. This year’s elections will look and move a little differently than in the past and we would like to offer our vision of how it will work.
 
First and foremost, we encourage all voters to vote by absentee ballot. This will afford the most protection for voters and poll workers. The Secretary of State has added, temporarily, the concern of a voter for potential health risks to the allowable reasons to cast an absentee ballot. The form for requesting an absentee ballot is available on the Town Clerk’s section of the Town website.  The form is also available at the back entrance to Town Hall. For more information on this you can call the Town Clerk’s office at 603-284-7113.

For the Primary Election in September you will receive a Republican or Democratic ballot depending on which party you are registered with. Undeclared voters may request either ballot but must re-declare as Undeclared or you will be registered to whichever party you requested a ballot for. The form for re-enrolling as Undeclared will be included in your absentee ballot mailing if you request to vote absentee. You must return it along with your completed ballot.
 
If you choose not to vote by absentee ballot be advised face masks will be REQUIRED to enter the Town Hall to vote. Face masks will be available for those who forgot to bring one. Six foot social distancing will be enforced. Due to the confined space of the elevator to the second floor it will not be used for the elections. Provisions will be made in the parking lot for an area for those physically unable to climb the stairs or for voters who feel unable to wear face masks. If you fall into either of those categories please vote by absentee ballot.
 
Respectfully, James Mykland, Sandwich Town Moderator
Alison Gage, Sandwich Town Clerk/Tax Collector, 603-284-7113
Town of Sandwich, 8 Maple Street   PO Box 194, Sandwich, NH 03227

The experience of one Sandwich voter:
Thank you, Alison, Town Clerk.  Rudy and I applied for both ballots on a single application.  We mailed those applications in to you.  You and Lois checked that we are Sandwich residents, registered voters, real people.  Then you mailed us our September 6 ballots.  We filled out the ballots.  Each of us put our ballot in a special envelope that we sealed and then we signed our names on the outside. Then we inserted this envelope in a larger mailing envelope.  Then we mailed it to Town Hall.  Lois tells me that the ballots will be held in their sealed envelopes until election day.  But every ballot is registered as it comes to Town Hall with the Secretary of State.  We can even track our ballot online. No chance of losing it.  A safe and careful system is guarding our most precious democratic right.  No need to go to Town Hall on election day where election workers might be exposed to someone with Covid-19.  We know every vote will be counted that night by our team of Town officials and volunteer registrars.  Thanks for protecting democracy!
Martha Carlson

Courtenay Delaney writes: Hello all, we hope that you are enjoying your summer! Our July 20th Selectmen’s Meeting and work session covered a lot of ground, including a ‘Meet and Greet’ with our Town Counsel Walter Mitchell and Laura Spector-Morgan.

Police Chief Shawn Varney provided us with COVID-19 updates, noting that there are no known active cases in town and that we have a sufficient supply of PPE. Chief Varney also provided a summary of how parking enforcement is going at our Town beaches. All agreed to ‘deputize’ Ole Anderson so he can also issue parking tickets to those without a valid pass/sticker.  Ole visits all three beaches on a regular basis and can be that extra set of eyes for enforcement on busy days.

The Sandwich Climate Action Coalition (SCAC) met with the Selectmen and Planning Board Chair, Mike Babcock, to learn how they can help with the Energy Chapter of the Town’s Master Plan when it is next updated with fresh census data. Discussion followed on how best the Selectmen can implement the initiatives within Article 21 from the 2020 Town Warrant.

Alison Gage, our Town Clerk/Tax Collector went through the official liening process which was executed earlier in the day. Documents were signed and notarized and the Selectmen were briefed on the potential deeding of a few properties and those taxes which are delinquent. Despite COVID-19, we are happy to report that the number of properties with delinquent taxes is on par with years past.

The Selectmen have also been evaluating opportunities to improve organizational culture, increase cross-training of staff, and Selectmen Horn has been working on improvements to our employee performance review process. Earlier this summer, the Selectmen agreed to prioritize the goal of empowering the workforce, increasing efficiency where possible and engaging employees in a shared vision for the Town; the Selectmen will continue to evaluate organizational structure, culture, and processes for town business to work toward that end.

Lastly, we had a very good discussion on Town fireworks and postponing them further into the winter based on recommendations by both Chief Varney and Fire Chief Call. After thoughtful consideration, the Selectmen supported the Chiefs’ recommendations and agreed that safety of the town and frontline workers is of the utmost concern during these difficult times. We are hoping Atlas Fireworks agrees to do our fireworks display on New Year’s Eve so we can give a very loud and celebratory goodbye to 2020. Stay tuned!

As always, we are pleased by the efforts of everyone to pitch in, work together, and observe safe protocols.  Respectfully, Joanne Haight, Leo Dwyer, Todd Horn, Sandwich Board of Selectmen

Diane Johnson writes: In April, before the Sandwich Fair was cancelled for this year, a new pole building was built on the Fairgrounds near the Cattle Sheds and the Craft Barn. The intent was to eliminate the need to rent a tent every year to cover the Cattle Show Area. While there will be no cattle show this fall, the new open structure is getting a lot of use in this time of Covid-19.

Moultonborough Academy used it (a couple of tents, and the nearby grounds) for graduation, a week later Moultonborough held their School District Meeting there. Their town meeting was scheduled for the same day but it was just too hot and humid that Saturday. Last Saturday, the Outreach Committee of the Community Church of Sandwich, held a Dessert Auction in the Pole Building; they raised $1914 for Inter-Lakes Caregivers.

The Fairgrounds in general has had a lot of use this year. Sunday evening, a group held a concert and movie night  to benefit members of the military.  On any day, you will find people exercising, dog walkers, families riding bikes, and people just enjoying the space. The Sandwich Fair Association welcomes responsible use of the grounds. In this Covid time, safe social distancing is expected.

The Fair Association always expects users to be thoughtful and safe; this includes cleaning up after animals and never leaving a mess behind. Any organized activity also requires the written permission of the Sandwich Fair Association, Inc. The Fairgrounds are not town lands but are privately owned and operated by the by the Sandwich Fair Association, Inc., a 501c3 organization run by volunteers.  For more information, please visit www.thesandwichfair.com

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

Greetings from our new normal!  Back in May we announced this season’s summer exhibit would be virtual and remote.  Since then, we have been very hard at work on the exhibit, and the time has come to reveal!

We are excited to announce our 2020 Summer Exhibit ~ Our Women of Sandwich ~ is now live!  Whether you visit us virtually or are able to go on our self-guided walking tour, we hope you enjoy it!  While the walking tour will remain the same throughout the summer and fall, our virtual exhibit will be updated weekly, and we encourage you to add to it!  Please read on to find out more.  

How will you know where to find these amazing women? We have created a map which is available on our website as well as a limited quantity available outside the Elisha Marston House.  Of course, you may also just “stumble” upon them as you move about town in the course of your weekly activities! And, again, all of the women are featured on our website, which you may view from the comfort of home!

We are also celebrating other women of Sandwich virtually.  We are featuring a few as part of our exhibit kick-off women right away on our website. We will be adding to this list of virtual vignettes as the summer progresses.  In fact, we welcome you to add a woman (or two!) to our special virtual exhibit by sending us a personal story…. a paragraph or several.  It need not be lengthy, but it is a wonderful way to acknowledge a Sandwich woman of significance to you.  It would be helpful if you could provide at least one picture of her too! In this way our celebration of Sandwich Women will continue to grow all summer!  We can also add your story(ies) to the women we are already highlighting.  The more voices, the better!  Email us at [email protected].

Finally, we will have a little something extra associated with our exhibit this summer. Coming out July 31 and running through August 21 there will be a scavenger hunt format for children (11 & under) and a bingo format for adults (12 & up).  We hope this will encourage folks to visit our remote exhibit sites, our website, and celebrate the time of summer that includes Old Home Week! Stay tuned for more information on these and other virtual offerings that we may have this summer.
 
Although this “new normal” is uncharted territory, the staff and trustees of the Sandwich Historical Society are working hard to ensure that we continue to share Sandwich History.  Our Excursion Bulletin will be published as usual! Our Museum Shop is open online and features wonderful gift items, clothing, publications, and postcards.  Be well and we hope you enjoy Our Women of Sandwich! 
 
Abby Hambrook, Director
Geoff Burrows, President
Web:  sandwichhistorical.org Email:  [email protected]

The Exhibit Team would like to extend special thanks to the following for their help with our exhibit:
 
Property & Business Owners:  “Maple House” (David Patridge & Mallory Hathaway); Town Hall & the Old Fire Station (Sandwich Board of Selectmen & Fire Chief Ted Call); Parade & Fair Museum Buildings (Sandwich Fair Association President, Dan Peaslee & the Board of Directors); Baptist Meetinghouse & Methodist Meetinghouse (Trustees, Community Church of Sandwich); Samuel H. Wentworth Library (Director Nancy Fredrickson), Sandwich Home Industries (Manager Martha Nichols); Center Post Office (Trustees, Alfred Quimby Fund & the Postmaster); Tappan Chair Shop (Artisan Adam Nudd-Homeyer); and the Corner House Inn (Lexi Townsend)
 
Pictures (to date):  Carl Hansen, Sue Greene, Abby Hambrook, Wendy Ritger, Deb Kerr, David Crory, Joan Cook, Trecia McEvoy, Susan Lirakis  and Geoff Burrows.
 
Map:  Bob Dustin and Jim Hambrook 

Ole Anderson writes: Hi all, There will be an Old Home Week this year, but it will be different than years’ past.  Old Home Week is Sunday 8/9 – 8/16.  We are doing our best to create activities and events for the community to safely engage. Many of the groups who usually offer events and activities are working on dynamic planning in order to deliver a safe and meaningful experience for community members.

I can say with certainty that there will not be an Old Home Week Brochure. The nature of planning for the week with attention to Covid-19 guidelines and recommendations, or the potential of rising confirmed cases in our area, make it necessary for each group to have the ability to adjust their event rather than feel committed to what is published in a brochure weeks in advance.  

We will be populating the town website with a schedule at sandwichnh.com. This page is currently blank, but as events and activities are confirmed, we will add them, starting on July 14.  We will try and post on the SandwichBoard as each new activity and event is added. We will certainly post an update if an already posted event has been modified or canceled.

Please know we are doing our best to create safe, fun, and interesting events and activities; however, this means many of the traditional Old Home Week events will not be able to take place this year.  Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work on Sandwich’s 122nd Old Home Week.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Ole Anderson, Sandwich Parks and Recreation Director, 284-6473, [email protected]

Center Sandwich, NH: July 4th, 2020 – Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery is pleased to open Sandwiched in Seasons, an exhibit of new work by artist, Kathryn Field.

Field is a painter, sculptor and art teacher who lives and works in Sandwich, NH. Follow Field through her spring and summer walks, hikes and swims into intense fall color and icy winter streams.  Each painting is a personal experience, and adventure in color, light and shadow.  This series is an exquisite testimony to the artist’s talents.  

Preview Field's work at her website or even better visit Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery at 69 Maple Street in Center Sandwich, NH.  We will open July 1 for the summer.  Though there is no opening reception to meet the artist this year, the paintings will be on exhibit until July 25th.  Gallery hours are from 10 to 5 Monday through Saturday and 12 to 5 on Sunday.  For more information about the artist or the gallery please visit the website or give us a call at 603 284 7728.

We hope that you are well. On June lst we continued the process of exploring potential COVID-19 driven Town budget reductions (reduction in paving expense, workforce, etc.). We will proceed thoughtfully and will not compromise essential services.

On Sunday, May 31, we honored Police Chief Wyman with a drive-by celebration in appreciation of his 20 years of exemplary service to our Town. Thank you to the many town residents, family members, and law enforcement colleagues from across the state – and beyond - who showed up with signs, balloons, cards, and heartfelt praise. You might have heard the full Fire Department and Law Enforcement sendoff escort. We are deeply grateful for his years of proactive leadership and deep commitment to the very best principles of community policing.

 On Monday, we held swearing in ceremonies for our new Police Sergeant, Karl Koch (pronounced “cook”),  and the promotion of Staff Sgt. Shawn Varney to Chief. We truly appreciate the tremendous community affirmation in support of Police Chief Varney.

We are finalizing our plans for our beaches and summer recreation. This has required more study and taken longer than any of us would wish, thank you for your understanding.

 Roads, road drainage, and the Transfer Station continue to occupy much of our time. We approved the $2+ million yearly Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) that provides us with necessary working capital until property taxes are collected. Each week the Selectmen report on what the residents have shared with them so that we can provide community responsive leadership.

 Please support our local businesses and nonprofits as we look to get our local economy back into gear. We will all need to pitch in, work together, and observe safe protocols.  Respectfully, Joanne Haight, Leo Dwyer, Todd Horn, Board of Selectmen

The Sandwich Selectmen write: Hello all: Thank you to all residents who participated in the recreational spaces survey!  It is great to hear how committed this community is to using public spaces in a safe and fair manner. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be implementing modifications to beach policies this year with the understanding that we must remain flexible in this time of ever-changing circumstances. All policies are subject to change, however we understand residents are eager to begin summer planning. Community cooperation is essential to ensuring effective policies and is greatly appreciated in advance!

Please wear a mask when moving to and from vehicles and maintain distance from anyone that is not in your household (per CDC guidelines). Please do not come to the beach if you or a member of your household is sick. As we seek to keep facilities accessible to all residents, please be mindful of the large at-risk sector of our population.

 No Lifeguards on Duty: swim at your own risk at all times!  No inflatables, but lifejackets and foam noodles are allowed.  There will be no picnic tables and no swim raft, but we will have swim lines. There will be no swim lessons this summer.

The Beach parking area will be for beachgoers only. Please use roadside parking or the trailer lot across the street from the beach for boat use including rooftop launches (kayaks, canoes, etc.) Beach games will not be allowed (spikeball, frisbee, bocce, football, Kan Jam etc.)

As always, facility stickers and/or guest passes are required for use of the town beaches. Parking policies will be strictly enforced. Beginning June 17th, Beach Attendants will staff the town beach at Squam 7 days a week 10:00 am - 5:30 pm to assist in implementing the following procedures. The Beach will be open regular hours 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
 
Upon arrival, beachgoers will give their name and the number of people in their vehicle to the beach attendants. Attendants will note the arrival time, and assign the group a number. Beach goers will have a two-hour time limit when beach is at capacity. If the beach reaches capacity, an attendant will give group members a fifteen-minute notice. Attendants will determine capacity based upon parking and discretion, taking into consideration beach space and CDC guidelines. If the beach does not reach capacity in two hours, beachgoers may stay until capacity is reached. However, if capacity is reached, the time limit will be counted as when beachgoers arrived, not when the beach reached capacity. Beachgoers may attempt to return two hours after they leave.
 
Any beachgoers who biked, walked, or are dropped off will abide time limits. Drop-offs and walk/bike-ins will not be allowed when beach is at capacity.

We ask that folks follow CDC guidelines for social distancing at the Potholes and Bearcamp Pond. Please limit visitation duration and do not attempt to enter when these parking areas are full.
 
As these policies are subject to change, full cooperation is key to assessing whether future modifications to beach policies are necessary. We are eager to facilitate the enjoyment of sunshine and our local facilities during these difficult times.

If you have any question or comments, please direct them to Sandwich Parks and Recreation Director Ole Anderson at: [email protected]

As you can imagine, our response to COVID-19 dominated our weekly meeting on Monday the 11th. With the professional insights of Dr. Paul Simmons – the Town’s medical advisor - and other local and state resources, we are working our way through a time of uncertainty and anxiety. Balancing public health, economic welfare, tradition, routine town business, and all that we hope for each summer is tricky.

The biggest take-away was that we need your understanding and support as we apply the best judgment of our state and local leaders. We appreciate the flexibility and open-minded, open-hearted spirit of our community.
 
We will communicate regularly, understanding that we might have to change direction on some policies as circumstances shift. We are developing a survey to learn more about what our residents hope for this summer. Managing expectations will be a challenge as we will likely face significant budget challenges.

We also have a heavy load of normal Town business to address as each Town Committee works through modified protocols of distancing and Zoom meetings. Thank you to our many extraordinary volunteers upon whom we rely. Your service is what makes our thriving community possible.
 
Our meetings, agendas, and minutes are all public and can be found on the Town’s website.

We observed all recommended protocols (masks, distancing, limit of ten) and met in person upstairs in Town Hall this week but will return to virtual meetings on May 18th. We, also, remain flexible!
 
In addition to our usual department and committee business, we worked to complete the hiring process and plan a smooth transition as Chief Doug Wyman retires on May 31st.
 
The Town’s recreational facilities currently remain open. We need your help and support here: please maintain social distancing and appropriate hygiene (hand washing/sanitizer, etc.) Currently, we are not recommending having the swim raft in the water nor will picnic tables be placed on the beach as both compromise social distancing. We continue to research what makes the most sense for typical summer activities and events including Old Home Week. We will keep you posted and appreciate your patience! These are difficult and complex decisions.

Courtney Delaney, the Town’s new Administrative Assistant, started her training with both Jennifer Wright and Cathy Graham. We are excited to have her on our team.
 
Please do not hesitate to contact us or the Selectmen’s Office if you have any concerns or questions. 284-7701  [email protected]

Stay safe and stay well, Respectfully, Joanne Haight, Leo Dwyer, Todd Horn, Sandwich Board of Selectmen

The Sandwich Board of Selectmen is studying how best to allow its residents to enjoy all that summer brings to our little town, while also making sure everyone is safe. They are following State protocols during this time of COVID-19 but also need to establish their own guidelines, specific to Sandwich. This survey was established to gather information from our residents on your thoughts on how best to keep our beaches and recreational facilities open and safe this summer. This Survey will close on Sunday 5/24.

We are looking for ideas representing all generations; if more than one person in your family would like to take the survey, please make sure they use their individual e-mail address. If other members of your household will NOT be filling out this survey, please include their perspective in your responses. Please do not take this survey multiple times! 
We estimate it will take 10 minutes to complete.
Please share this survey with anyone you may know who is not on the SandwichBoard.  We are hoping to get input from as many residents as possible.    There will be a link on our town website  on the Parks and Recreation page. http://www.sandwichnh.org/departments/parks_and_recreation/index.php

Some important information:

• You can complete this survey with whatever kind of email you have. No gmail required
• Nobody but town officials will see your responses.  
• You should get a confirmation that you’ve submitted your response, please let us know if that does not happen – send an email to [email protected] 
• You will also have the option to have a copy of your responses sent to you if you would like to have them,
• Survey will expire on 5/24

Survey Link: Sandwich Public Recreational Spaces Survey

Thank you!
Ole Anderson
Sandwich Parks and Recreation Director
[email protected]

By Janina Lamb

I am planning a new series on this blog called People of Sandwich. It will showcase stories of people in our community. I'm beginning this series with a person who died recently and whose impact on our community cannot be overstated. Alan Switzer, who for years ran the Sandwich Aquatic School, died on May 4 at the age of 90.

I wonder how many people in Sandwich learned to swim, during the summer, under Alan Switzer's steadfast and very effective tutelage. Many who are now adults learned to swim there, many of us sent our children to Switzer’s, and some of us watched our grandchildren learn to swim there.

From the SAS Facebook page:

Sandwich Aquatic School began when Alan Switzer began teaching local children to swim on the shores of Squam Lake in the summer of 1966. Since then the program has grown to instruct roughly 500 children every year and host several third generation families. Sandwich Aquatic School has a proven track record of teaching children how to swim the right way for over 50 years.

Some kids found Mr. Switzer’s style tougher than they liked, or were used to, but by golly, they learned to swim, often returning summer after summer.

Those of us who might be called permissive parents (overly-permissive?) were quite willing to have our children put through a no-nonsense, challenging set of swimming lessons that resulted in strong swimmers. Same time every day for  two weeks, rain or shine, cold or warm.

We, the parents, sat around the pool inside the fence and watched as our children were taken in hand by Mr. Switzer’s firm, never ruffled, never slackening instruction. How pleased and proud we all were, children and parents alike, when our kids got their card of completion at the end of a session.

My granddaughters, Willa and Molly Canfield, learned to swim over several summers with Mr. Switzer, when he was already in his eighties. Willa Canfield says,

   "Going to Switzer's was one of the formative experiences of my life. It made my friends and me into such strong swimmers. We can go down to Squam Lake and swim great distances together. Mr. Switzer was an amazing teacher. Even as a very old man, he was so vital and present."

We in Sandwich knew Alan Switzer primarily as the head teacher and owner of the Sandwich Aquatic School. Outside of the summers, Switzer had a long, illustrious career as a swimming coach at the University of Maine and Plymouth State University. The links below provide more information on his life and career beyond Sandwich.

https://obituaries.bangordailynews.com/obituary/alan-switzer-jr-1079145852

https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/passages-iconic-maine-plymouth-state-swim-coach-alan-switzer-90/

https://bangordailynews.com/2020/05/08/sports/umaine-sports/longtime-umaine-swimming-coach-al-switzer-dies-at-90/

How fortunate we were in this town of lakes and rivers to have such a master to help generations of Sandwich youth become confident, skilled swimmers.
Thank you, Mr. Switzer. You are a legend.

Three of Sandwich's wonderful establishments doing what we do best in this community: bringing creativity and caring to the needs of the day.

The Sandwich Home Industries, Patricia Ladd Gallery, Sandwich Historical Society, and Wentworth Library have put their hearts and minds together to create some fun for the community. Maybe you have heard of the Getty Challenge where people recreate famous works of art? We have borrowed the idea and challenge you to do the same! See below for more information...

A big thank you to our wonderful Selectmen!

4.28.2020

We hope that you are staying healthy and well. We feel so fortunate to live in a thoughtful and generous community surrounded by nature.

Each week the Selectmen meet to address Town business and make the best possible decisions. We review information from our Department Heads (Fire, Highway/Transfer Station, Parks and Rec, Police, Town Clerk/Tax Collector); our Town Committees and Commissions (there are 10 of them – all staffed by local volunteers); the New Hampshire Municipal Association; relevant medical professionals; and the most recent Emergency Orders from the Governor. Our local Emergency Management Team works through the many State Emergency Operations Center Situation Reports.

As important, every week we consider issues that residents have brought forward by email, phone, personal contact, and the Sandwich Board. Despite abundant information, there remains much ambiguity and uncertainty in these unusual times. We apply our prudent and thoughtful judgement and truly appreciate all the support that we have received.

Some of our routine Town business has been suspended due to physical distancing requirements. We appreciate your patience and understanding. That said, every week we discuss public safety, roads, the transfer facility, local quality of life/economic issues, the Town’s budget, and resident welfare. We serve at the pleasure of our local residents and under very specific guidance granted by the State of New Hampshire.

Our meetings, agendas, and meeting minutes are all public. Please visit our town website for more information:  www.sandwichnh.org. We will also do our best to communicate with you through the SandwichBoard on any important decisions relative to our Town facilities.

On May 4, the Governor will give us additional guidance as to what comes next. Until then, thank you for washing your hands, practicing physical distancing, taking care of your neighbor, and following quarantine guidelines (especially if coming from another state). Please support our local businesses and nonprofits and the front-line workers of our town who are going above and beyond in these difficult times. Our community knows how to pull together and step up to a challenge.

Respectfully,
Joanne Haight, Leo Dwyer, & Todd Horn

The Sandwich Fair Association Board of Directors has announced that it will be canceling the Sandwich Fair for the 2020 Season. With the uncertainty of the direction of the coronavirus pandemic and how it will affect large group gatherings into the fall, the Board of Directors felt that cancelling the fair was the safest option for the fair community and the public.

The Sandwich Fair started in 1886 as an agricultural event where local farmers could trade and sell their cattle. It has since grown into a 3-day event held annually over the Columbus Day Weekend and is a mainstay of the New Hampshire fall foliage season, with 30,000 visitors annually coming to see agricultural exhibits, crafts, farm animals and, of course, get their fill of fried dough and midway rides.

As the last fair of the New Hampshire fair season, the Sandwich Fair puts an exclamation point on the state’s tradition of agricultural fairs. Ironically, the only other time the Sandwich Fair has been canceled was in 1919 during the Spanish Flu pandemic. Dan Peaslee, President of the Sandwich Fair Association, said of the Boards decision, “It was an incredibly hard decision to make, but the board felt it could not in good conscience bring so many people together in the fall if there was a chance that this virus would still be capable of infecting people.” As part of its decision, the fair board weighed several factors, including how the pandemic could impact all the vendors, concessionaires, entertainers, farm families and the visiting public.

While it is sad to think about missing the Sandwich Fair this fall, it will be back on October 9 - 11, 2021 bigger and better than ever. The Sandwich Fair Board of Directors wishes everyone a safe summer and we look forward to seeing you at the Fair in 2021. For more information about the Sandwich Fair, contact the fair at [email protected] or visit our website.

Diane Johnson writes: Lexi Townsend, owner of the Corner House Restaurant & Bar (284-6219), and Nick and Elaine Vazzana, owners of the Village Art Café & Country Store 284-7071), have been very supportive of our community during this pandemic.

They are helping people get fully prepared meals to go, groceries, and needed supplies like hand sanitizer and toilet paper.  Both businesses are ordering and providing for pick-up food which families can prepare at home. The Corner House has added a service where people can order and add items to the restaurant's bulk order and have food available for pick-up on Friday morning when the produce and meats arrive. Let's remember to support these businesses and their owners who are doing extra to provide for us.

We are very fortunate in our lovely little town to have very kind folks who are doing lots of things to make this time of uncertainty more bearable. In addition to take-out groceries and food, we have free baguettes, wellness phone calls, many makers of masks, the Sandwich Board, and lots of folks taking walks outside and waving at each other. It is a blessing to live in a beautiful place where we can be out in fresh air and able to keep a safe distance.

Find more information about Sandwich's response to the coronavirus here.