2024 Citizen of the Year

Hopkinton Rotary is pleased to honor Susan Covert as 2024 Citizen of the Year.  Susan's efforts to keep the residents of our community informed and up-to-date with her daily email newsletter is a much-appreciated service -- and one we anticipate every morning!  The honor came with a $1,000 donation to a charity of Susan's choice and Two Villages Art Society was the recipient.  Thank you for all you do in service to our town Susan!  This is a well-deserved recognition for your efforts.  To subscribe to Susan's email send yours to scovert@comcast.net.
2024 Citizen of the Year 2024-03-26 04:00:00Z 0
2024 Scholarship Golf Tournament Gayle Kimball 2024-02-27 05:00:00Z 0

Annual Senior Holiday Dinner

Hopkinton Rotarians cooked and served 65 meals at this year's Senior Holiday dinner.  It's fun to watch President Neal Cass lead his kitchen team in this annual effort.  
 
Annual Senior Holiday Dinner 2023-12-21 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary Donates to Human Services Energy Fund

Mike Byrne presents Alicia Presti with $3,000 for the Town's Human Services Energy Fund.  A longstanding tradition, this donation marks ten years of contributions to help Town residents during the long winter months.
 
 
Rotary Donates to Human Services Energy Fund 2022-12-17 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary donates to Ukraine Relief Effort

Hopkinton Rotary has donated $5,000 to support humanitarian efforts for refugees fleeing Ukraine. Our gift was made to the Zamość Ordynacki Rotary in Poland and is being used to provide relief to women and children fleeing Ukraine into Southeastern Poland. Our donation was part of an ongoing relief effort organized by the Southern Vermont/New Hampshire Rotary District, and we're grateful to District Governor John Siemienowicz for organizing.
 
Rotary donates to Ukraine Relief Effort Gayle Kimball 2022-04-16 04:00:00Z 0

Thank you to our 2023 Golf Sponsors

Thank you to the sponsors of our 2023 Scholarship Golf Tournament.  It's only with your help that we are able to fund $14,000 in scholarships for deserving high school seniors graduating from Hopkinton High Middle School.  A list of the recipients can be found here.
 
Platinum Sponsor
Banks Chevrolet Cadillac
 
Gold Sponsors
Belletetes Lumber
Gary Chicoine Management
Pat's Peak Ski Area
 
Silver Sponsors
Irish Electric
Northeast Delta Dental
Sarette Brothers Heating
The Concord Group Insurance Co
Wardell and Harper
 
Blue Sponsors.
Bangor Savings Bank
Beech Hill Farm
Cowan And Zellers Real Estate
DL Carlson Investments
Jeffrey Donohoe Associates, LLC
JH Holmes Design
Lamb, Peterso and Mann Advisory Group
Merrill Lynch - Hardenbergh
Merrimack County Savings Bank
Underwood Engineering
Valorie's Kitchen
Yestramski Electrical Services
 
You are making a difference for the next generation!
Thank you to our 2023 Golf Sponsors 2022-04-11 04:00:00Z 0

2022 Candidates Forum

On this coming Sunday, March 6, at 6:00 p.m. there will be a Candidates Forum via Zoom and by phone -see details below.  If you have questions for candidates, please email these by noon Friday March 4 to hoprotaryflags@gmail.com. Please include your name and the contested race to which your question is directed. The moderator will ask as many questions as possible, but due to time constraints, relevance to the office, another similar question, or other reasons it may be impossible to ask all questions as submitted.  Thank you for your understanding.
 
Via Zoom - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85215970605
By phone - 1-646-558-8656 Webinar ID: 852 1597 0605
2022 Candidates Forum 2022-03-01 05:00:00Z 0
Scholarship Golf Tournament 2022-01-16 05:00:00Z 0
Bow Rotary Club Annual Auction Sean 2021-11-03 04:00:00Z 0

Thanks to all for a great golf outing!

Hopkinton Rotary extends its deepest appreciation to our sponsors, golfers, and volunteers for an outstanding golf event on September 10 at Beaver Meadow Golf Course.  We surpassed our expectations and will again be funding more than $10,500 in scholarships for deserving Hopkinton MHS seniors in 2022 with the proceeds from the tournament.
 
Platinum Sponsor
Banks Chevrolet Cadillac
 
Gold Sponsors
Belletetes Lumber
Gary Chicoine Construction
JCM Management
Pat's Peak Ski Area
 
Silver Sponsors
Irish Electric
Krafty Kitchens
Merrimack County Savings Bank
Northeast Delta Dental
Smart Water Irrigation
The Concord Group Insurance Company
Universal Steel Erectors
 
Blue Sponsors
Barton Insurance
DL Carlson Investments
Lakes Region Development
WWW Sarette Brothers Plumbing & Heating
Yestramski Electrical Services
 
And our numerous tee and green sponsors!  You are making a difference for the next generation.
Thanks to all for a great golf outing! 2021-09-20 04:00:00Z 0
Scholarship Golf Tournament 2021-07-03 04:00:00Z 0

Scholarships Awarded

The Hopkinton Rotary has awarded over $257,000 in scholarships to high school seniors who are pursuing 2- and 4-year college, technical, or vocational degrees. Special thanks to the many sponsors and participants of our annual golf tournament who make these awards possible. 
 
"Over my years of high school, I've become very involved in Interact and Rotary which I've loved very much. Being a guest at Rotary breakfast has been an absolute pleasure. Thank you for your support of my higher education and Interact, my favorite high school activity!"
 
"I would sincerely like to thank you for presenting me with a community scholarship. I have enjoyed participating in service and giving back to the community."
 
 
Scholarships Awarded Gayle Kimball 2021-03-30 04:00:00Z 0

Million Mask Challenge

As part of the Million Mask Challenge, Hopkinton Rotarians have begun delivery of paper face masks to local nonprofits and service groups.  President Irv Gordon picked up 16,000 masks and more are expected.  If you are in need of masks, contact Rotary here with a brief description of your organization and your need for adult masks.
 
 
 
Million Mask Challenge Gayle Kimball 2021-01-25 05:00:00Z 0

The Meaning of Veterans Day

Flags will be flying above Hopkinton and Contoocook this weekend.  How fitting our final flag holiday is a celebration of Veterans Day.
 
Veterans Day is always celebrated on November 11th in honor of the men and women who have served our country in times of war and peace. Originally called Armistice Day, commemorating the end of fighting in World War I, it was renamed in 1954 to formally include veterans of WWII and the Korean War.

Unlike Memorial Day which honors those who have lost their lives while serving, Veterans Day is also an opportunity to thanks living veterans for their service and sacrifice. 

Some of us are old enough to remember the confusion caused when Veterans Day was, for a short period of time in the early 1970s, celebrated on the fourth Monday of October so federal employees would have a 3-day weekend.  But that didn’t last as many states reverted to the original November 11 date because of its historic associations. As well, other countries, like our northern neighbor, Canada, celebrate the WWI armistice as Remembrance Day on Nov. 11th.   

Fighting in World War I actually ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when a cease fire with Germany took effect. The Treaty of Versailles peace agreement wasn’t actually signed until June of the following year.
 
Here is some additional history from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. 
 
 
 
The Meaning of Veterans Day Gayle Kimball 2020-10-04 04:00:00Z 0

Join Us at Hopkinton Rotary 

Hopkinton Rotary meets on Wednesday mornings at the Slusser Center, and guests are welcome.  If you would like to join us for breakfast, please do!  The meeting opens at 7:00 a.m. for fellowship with the official meeting starting at 7:15 a.m. and ending promptly at 8:15 a.m.
 

 
 
Join Us at Hopkinton Rotary kim 2020-08-18 04:00:00Z 0

2020 Scholarships Awarded

Hopkinton Rotary presented eight scholarship to graduating HMHS seniors this year. The $3,000 Banks Chevrolet Scholarship was awarded to Jessica Janinda. Seven $1,000 scholarships were awarded to Katie Meserve, Lily Ogdon, Emma Rothe, Colby Quiet, Dan Rinden, Lily Presti, and Tressa Tewksbury. Scholarships are awarded based on criteria that include academics, financial need, and in keeping with Rotary's ideals, community service.
 
In the words of two of this year's recipients:
 
"Thank you so much for this scholarship. It has been a huge help to my family as I prepare to go to college."
 
"With help from this scholarship, I look forward to college next year, where I will certainly continue with service to my community and beyond."
 
The Hopkinton Rotary wishes all the graduates of the class of 2020 best wishes in the year ahead as they embark on their next chapters. Thanks go to the many sponsors and participants of our annual golf tournament that make these awards possible. Over $222,000 in scholarships have been awarded  to deserving Hopkinton students since the program's start.
 
 
2019 Awards Night at Hopkinton High School:
 
2020 Scholarships Awarded Gayle Kimball 2020-07-09 04:00:00Z 0

2020-2021 Rotary International Presidential Theme

Rotary International President Holger Knaack's theme for 2020-21, Rotary Opens Opportunities, asks Rotarians to create opportunities that put service ideas into action, and improve the lives of those in need.  Easy words for Hopkinton Rotarians to live by.

 

2020-2021 Rotary International Presidential Theme Gayle Kimball 2020-07-09 04:00:00Z 0

Sandy Bartlett Named Paul Harris Fellow

Sandy Bartlett was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Hopkinton Rotary on Saturday, June 27, 20020 in honor of her retirement.  Sandy has been cooking breakfasts for Rotary since its earliest days, and in her 23 years, earned her reputation as a great cook.  Sandy has been a valuable asset, and a valued colleague.
Sandy Bartlett Named Paul Harris Fellow Gayle Kimball 2020-06-30 04:00:00Z 0

Gift Certificates Donated to Food Pantry

LOCAL EATERY GIFT CERTIFICATES DONATED TO THE HOPKINTON FOOD PANTRY, A MATCH AND A DOUBLE WHAMMY
 
Several members of the Hopkinton Rotary recently made individual donations to help families being served by the Hopkinton Food Pantry during the pandemic.  The donations took the form of $50 gift certificates to The Everyday Café and Dimitri’s Pizza Restaurant, a double whammy – helping some deserving folks in town and supporting two of our local dining establishments. Rotarian Tony Gilmore, Hopkinton resident and respected Rotarian (who belongs to Concord’s Capital Sunrise Club), challenged the Hopkinton Rotarians to match his $500 contribution.  To date, 20 $50-gift certificates have been purchased to be given to Hopkinton’s Human Service Director Marilyn Bresaw for distribution.
 
Hopkinton Rotary President Debbie Norris said, “It was gratifying to rise to Tony’s challenge and meet his thoughtful generosity.  Helping Dimitri’s and The Everyday Cafe during these difficult times, while we continue our efforts to support the Food Pantry was a win-win situation.”
 
 
Gift Certificates Donated to Food Pantry 2020-04-28 04:00:00Z 0

The Pita Pocket Project

Several members of Hopkinton Rotary rescued 1,000s of pita bread pockets from destruction on Monday and Tuesday of this week (April 13 + 14) for distribution to food pantries and agencies throughout Merrimack County.  Joseph’s Middle East Bakery, a national manufacturer, donated over four pallets of pita pockets.

Business consultant, and long-time Hopkinton Rotarian, Dave Feller gathered a crew of fellow Rotarians and business colleagues to mount the “rescue” effort. Four pallets containing over 200 cases in total were picked up from the manufacturer and routed to Agile Magnetics in Concord and two sites in Hopkinton where volunteers opened and repacked packages into unlabeled cartons for delivery. The Capital Regional Food Program, a private not-for-profit, all volunteer organization, distributed about half of this product to 19 different local organizations. The Community Action Program - Belnap-Merrimack Counties received a large share for its network with additional deliveries directly to the Hopkinton, Warner, and Kearsarge food pantries. Several cartons were also donated to Dimitris Pizza Restaurant to help with preparation of the free meals they have been making and delivering to the residents of senior housing in Contoocook. 

“I am so proud of the quick response I received when I reached out to my friends and Rotarians for help salvaging this product,” said Dave Feller.  “I work with many food manufacturers, and there is a huge opportunity here for future salvage efforts just like this one.”

Hopkinton Rotary extends its sincere thanks to Agile Magnetics for a generous donation of boxes and supplies for repackaging, Bartlett Tree Services for use of its box truck, and Peter Hayden of the Capital Regional Food Program. Hopkinton Rotary President Debbie Norris said, “Dave Feller is always thinking of ways that Rotary can make a difference.  I’m grateful to Dave for his efforts and for the efforts of the many caring individuals who stepped forward.”  Project Pita volunteers were Mike Foley, Ben Barton, Jeff Donohoe, Kathy Donohoe, Frank Grano, Sarah Hoffman, Gayle Kimball, Debbie Norris, Mike Norris, and Ken Traum.
 
From left to right: Debbie Norris, Ben Barton, Mike Norris, Dave Feller, and Ken Traum.
 
The Pita Pocket Project Gayle Kimball 2020-04-21 04:00:00Z 0
Save the Date 2020-02-24 05:00:00Z 0

Bill Siff Named Paul Harris Fellow

Hopkinton Rotarian Bill Siff was recently surprised with a Paul Harris pin and certificate to recognize his exemplary service to the Club and community.  President Debbie Norris is pictured here with Bill.
 
Recognition as a Paul Harris Fellow is one of the many ways in which Hopkinton Rotary honors a member of the Club or community for service above and beyond.   Among his many contributions, Bill is pictured on the left below, leading a work team as part of the Club's "Got Projects?" service initiative.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bill Siff Named Paul Harris Fellow Gayle Kimball 2019-09-24 04:00:00Z 0

Celebrating Rotarian Connie Powers

Connie Powers, standing on the left, is flanked by her husband of 62 years, PDG Peter Powers and Rotarian Darragh Madden and Darragh’s two daughters.
 
Hopkinton Rotary paid tribute to Connie Powers in August by making Connie an Honorary Member.  This posthumous distinctive was in recognition of Connie’s outstanding service to the Club, as well as District 7870, in her years accompanying PDG Pete Powers to numerous conferences, events, and work parties, like the 2018 Arbor Day tree planting pictured above. Connie passed away in June, but her infectious smile and good deeds will long be remembered by her many Rotarian friends.  
Celebrating Rotarian Connie Powers Gayle Kimball 2019-09-16 04:00:00Z 0
Gold Award Food Pantry Project Debbie Norris 2019-08-06 04:00:00Z 0

 

2019-2010 Rotary International Presidential Theme

RI President Mark Daniel Maloney’s theme for 2019-20, Rotary Connects the World, asks Rotarians to strengthen the many ways that Rotary Connects the World, building the connections that allow talented, thoughtful, and generous people to unite and take meaningful action through Rotary service.   Hopkinton Rotary has initiatives that connect the world internationally, regionally, and above all, in our local community.

 

2019-2010 Rotary International Presidential Theme Gayle Kimball 2019-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

Scholarship Golf Surpasses Expectations

145 golfers came out on June 21st, helping the scholarship golf tournament surpass its ambitious goal.  Chair Paul Bliss announced that over $13,000 was raised.  "The sun came out in time for tee off and the new format of five-somes playing 9 holes created a terrific experience for the golfers.  I appreciate everyone who came out to play, and I would like to thank them, the staff at Beaver Meadow, the volunteers and our sponsors, whose collective efforts added up to an outstanding tourney," said Bliss.
 
Banks Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Buick was the title sponsor and a $3,000 scholarship will be awarded in the company's name in spring, 2020. Gary Chicoine Construction, JCM Management, and Pat's Peak were gold sponsors.  Mike Bliss, Dunkin Donuts Henniker, Irish Electric, and Northeast Delta Dental, were silver sponsors. 
 
Find the full list of sponsors here.
 
The team of Dick Barry, Brian Streeter, Mike McDonald, Matt Poulin, and Scott Leveler won the putt off to become the tournament champions.  Bill Chapin, Jarrett Dunkin, Matt Switzer, John Tudor, and Kevin Bosworth were the runners up.
 
Since its inception of the golf tournament, more than $212,000 has been awarded for college and trade school scholarships for Hopkinton seniors.  
 
 
 
Scholarship Golf Surpasses Expectations Gayle Kimball 2019-06-26 04:00:00Z 0

Scholarship Golf Sponsors

Posted on Jun 26, 2019
Special Thanks to our Golf Sponsors
 
PLATINUM TITLE SPONSOR
Banks Chevrolet Cadillac GMC Buick
 
GOLD SPONSORS
Gary Chicoine Construction
JCM Management
Pat's Peak
 
SILVER SPONSORS
Dunkin Donuts of Henniker
Irish Electric
Mike Bliss
Northeast Delta Dental
 
BLUE SPONSORS
Apple Tree Veterinary
Belletetes Lumber
John Brown & Sons
Kim Burgess
Cowan & Zellers
The Cracker Barrel
Davis & Towle Group
Beth Eneguess, J Hampe & Associates
Excalibur Shelving
Greenblott & O'Rourke, PLLC
Indigo Blues
Irish Electric
John Brown & Sons
Krafty Kitchens
Charles Matthews, Bank of NH Wealth Management
New Hampshire Bowl and Board
Petersen, Mann & Associates
 
Scholarship Golf Sponsors Gayle Kimball 2019-06-26 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Scholarships Awarded

Hopkinton Rotary presented seven scholarships at Awards Night on Thursday, May 23.  The $3,000 Banks Chevrolet Scholarship was awarded to Anna Hoffman. A Tools of the Trade Award was presented to Greg Dockham. Cooper Otis, Corey Breault, Megan Ellsworth, Carter Haley, and Emily Ehrmanntraut were awarded college scholarships totaling an additional $6,000.   Scholarships are awarded based on academics, financial need, and in keeping with Rotary's ideals, on community service.
 
In the words of two of this year's recipients:
 
"Thank you for helping me pursue my dream."
 
"I am honored to receive this scholarship. It will be a huge help for me as I pay for tuition this fall."
 
 The Hopkinton Rotary thanks the many participants in its annual golf tournament that makes these awards possible.  Over $212,000 in scholarships have been awarded since the program's start.
 
2019 Awards Night at Hopkinton High School:
 
2019 Scholarships Awarded Gayle Kimball 2019-06-16 04:00:00Z 0

Scholarship Golf Tournament

Banks Chevrolet GMC Cadillac Buick will be the title sponsor of Hopkinton Rotary's Scholarship Golf Tournament this year.  The Tournament takes place on Friday, June 21st at Beaver Meadow Golf Course in Concord with a $4:30 shotgun start.  Sponsorship opportunities begin at $100 for tee and green sponsors.  Hopkinton Rotary has awarded more than $140,000 to deserving high school seniors since the inception of the tournament fundraiser.  For more information contact Rotarian Paul Bliss at 603-568-7531 or patsfan2404@yahoo.com
Scholarship Golf Tournament Gayle Kimball 2019-06-13 04:00:00Z 0

We'll See You Labor Day Weekend 

 
 
 
We will be back for Labor Day Weekend!  Thank you subscribers! 444 flags and counting are flying over Hopkinton and Contoocook.  If you're new to the flag program and would like a flag, or information, please email hoprotaryflags@gmail.com. If you're ready to subscribe, send us your name and street address. One of our volunteer Rotarians will set up your flag near your mailbox, unless you direct us otherwise. Mail your $40 check, payable to Hopkinton Rotary, to PO Box 243, Contoocook, NH  03229. 
 
Thank you so very much for your support of this project  -- it helps us fund local programs!
 
 
 
We'll See You Labor Day Weekend  Gayle Kimball 2019-06-12 04:00:00Z 0

FLAGS ARE FLYING FOR JULY 4th

 
 
 
We are back for July 4th with more than 400 flags around town!  Thank you subscribers!  If you're new to the flag program and would like a flag, please email hoprotaryflags@gmail.com with your name and street address. One of our volunteer Rotarians will set up your flag near your mailbox, unless you direct us otherwise. Mail your $40 check, payable to Hopkinton Rotary, to PO Box 243, Contoocook, NH  03229.Thank you!
 
If you are a returning subscriber from last year, thank you so very much for your support of this project  -- it helps us fund local programs!
 
 
 
FLAGS ARE FLYING FOR JULY 4th Gayle Kimball 2019-06-12 04:00:00Z 0
JOIN US FOR THE HILL CLIMB 2018-07-18 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Mount Kearsarge Hill Climb

The Mount Kearsarge Hill Climb will be held on Saturday, August 24.  Registration and number pick up begins at 7:30 a.m. with the race starting promptly at 9:30 a.m.  REGISTER HERE  $65 per person includes a raffle ticket and lunch. 
 

Course Description

The Mount Kearsarge Hill Climb consists of an 8 mile climb to the Mt. Kearsarge summit parking lot, including a 3.5 mile final segment with an 8.7% average grade and 1,738' rise. The first (4.5 mile) segment includes some uphill, level, and downhill sections.

 

The Mt. Kearsarge Hill Climb is the only hill climb in the United States that provides:

  • free coffee for all riders provided by Schoodac's Coffee House of Warner;
  • a scenic and challenging 8-mile course, including a one-mile 12%-plus gradient;
  • mid-climb $100 Men's and Women's primes;
  • Destination Cycling Mallorca vouchers and other valuable prizes to category winners;
  • a hearty post-race chili lunch; and
  • a free raffle ticket for an S&W Sports 2019 Trek Domane.
The proceeds from the Hill Climb support our community good works.
 
                                  Here's the start of the 2017 Hill Climb
 
 
 
 
2019 Mount Kearsarge Hill Climb Gayle Kimball 2017-06-08 04:00:00Z 0

Charter Anniversary

Hopkinton Rotary celebrates its Twentieth Charter Anniversary during 2016. The Club's official charter date is August 1, 1996.  Bow and Henniker Rotary Clubs were the sponsoring clubs.  Russell Hilliard was the first President, and founding members of the Club include active members David Feller, Sandra Heino, Harry Meinzer, Linda Morris, Peter Powers, Anthony Walker and honorary member Jack Porter.
 
PDG Pete Powers has written some highlights of the accomplishments of Hopkinton Rotary during its first 20 years.
Charter Anniversary Gayle Kimball 2016-07-21 00:00:00Z 0