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Acknowledging the dissonance between the holiday season and the current divisive political climate, the Dublin Advocate editors asked faith leaders to submit short statements about how their traditions offer guidance in times of conflict. Six leaders present messages of hope – with reassurance that there is more that connects than divides us in this town and beyond.
Dublin Public Library Director Karen Madigan takes a grateful look back at her first year, acknowledging the creative work of her staff and their many organizational accomplishments, new programs – and new books! Meanwhile, new officers have been elected by the Friends of the DPL.
From Town Hall comes a graph that illustrates where our property tax dollars go; those tax dollars are due on December 19. The Town is looking for a Dublin resident to finish the current term of the Town Clerk/Tax Collector and run for office next year. We are reminded that, beginning next summer, batteries will no longer be accepted at the Dublin Transfer Station and, speaking of throwing things away, some ideas are presented in the quest to “reduce, reuse, repair, and recycle.” Also in the “good environmental news” department is a municipal solar grant award, which will allow for a roof-top array to provide enough power for the Fire Station. On behalf of the Conservation Commission, Katie Featherston describes the threat of erosion on steep slopes, and their consideration in land use decisions.
In school news, students at DCS have had an active fall of learning that culminated in a Harvest Supper and parent/teacher conferences. Dublin School is inaugurating a sculpture park on the grounds of the school’s Nordic Center. The ConVal School Board is pondering two big capital projects: upgrades to the Career and Technical Education Center and the Lucy Hurlin Theatre, while the Dublin Education Advisory Committee’s minority report to the State School Board of Education was approved, clearing the way for Dublin voters to decide whether the town will withdraw from the ConVal School District.
We learn about Dubliner Kim Bergeron’s quest to finish the Iron Dog snowmobile race in Alaska.
As always, the Dublin Community Center is buzzing with regular and special events, including the annual Small Treasures Art Show & Sale, and a Project Shakespeare production of A Christmas Carol. A Christmas potluck is planned at the Dublin Community Church, where you can also drop off contributions for End 68 Hours of Hunger.
In addition, there are services at local churches, a Christmas tree lighting and sing-along, a book and boutique sale, a Music on Norway Pond Concert, and Messiah Sing, as well as holiday craft classes at MAxT, and a ”Story to Share” in Jaffrey.
As 2024 comes to an end, we at the Advocate wish all Dubliners happy holidays and peace in the new year.