🌱 Kayla Stoll 18 Under 18 Award + Senator Ricciardi Budget Wins

Good morning, neighbors. It's Paula Constance, your host of the Bedford Patch newsletter — here with the most important things happening locally. In today's issue of the newsletter, you'll read about these stories and more:

• Kayla Stoll wins the "18 Under 18 Award" from the National Society of High School Scholars.
• District 9 Sen. Denise Ricciardi sponsored several key bills in the recently passed bipartisan state budget.
• Lost dog found in Amherst. Is this your dog?

❤️ Love the Bedford Newsletter? Send a friend or neighbor this link so they can subscribe for free.

But first, today's weather: Showers and a heavier t-storm. High: 77 Low: 62.

Here are the top stories today in Bedford:

1. A shoutout to Kayla Stoll of Bedford wins the 18 Under 18 Award from the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). The NSHSS provides scholarships recognizing young students who "spread positivity and show leadership in their communities through their passions." Six years ago, Kayla started volunteering at an organic agricultural farm and became an organic agriculturalist in her community. She taught underserved kids about sustainably and became an advocate for the environment and animals. Congratulations! (National Society of High School Scholars)
2. Our own District 9 Sen. Denise Ricciardi was instrumental in passing several important bills in the bipartisan state budget. Community contributor Jane Aitken said Ricciardi sponsored and co-sponsored several bills in the budget prioritizing "education, health care, housing, clean water, infrastructure, and economic growth.” Ricciardi also sponsored SB99 to restore meals and rooms tax sharing, allocating "$250 million in rooms and meals revenue to towns to reduce property taxes!" Find out more about Ricciardi's contribution to the budget here: (Community Contributor)
3. Lost dog found in Amherst: "Amherst Residents and Visitors: Are you missing your dog?" This large girl was found on Amherst Street in Amherst. She has a microchip, but it links to the previous rescue group. The ARLNH is working to track down the rescue group and posting here to help find the owner so she can go home. See the photo here: (Animal Rescue League of NH via Facebook)

Shoutout to our premier local sponsors:

• Are you looking to buy or sell a luxury property in the Bedford area? Marianna Vis of Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty has over two decades of experience matching buyers and sellers of luxury properties in Southern New Hampshire. With over 1,000 homes sold and over 150 5-star reviews from clients, Marianna consistently produces results. For a free-market valuation and staging consultation, email Marianna today at vis@nhmoves.com.

• Looking to grow your small business? Terzakis & Associates has been helping small business owners grow and succeed for over 20 years through advisory services and small business coaching. Whether you run a family-owned business, a medical or legal practice or offer professional services like investing or accounting, Terzakis & Associates can help you with strategy and tactics to thrive — and not just survive. Book a free half-hour consultation here to learn more.

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to get started.

Today in Bedford:

Friday, August 4

• Sea Glass Art Creations (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Fun yoga poses: "Summer Camp 2023! Just some fun yoga poses these kiddos learned this week at Art & Yoga Camp. 😯 ➡️They make it look so easy. 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️" (The Canvas Road Show via Facebook)
• Girl Scout programs this month: "Check out the programs happening this month! Which one are you most excited for? To find all of our upcoming programs, click here:" (Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains via Facebook)
• Fairy House Trail preview: "The BCTV crew recently recorded a preview of the Bedford Hollow Fairy House Trail with Bedford Conservation Planner, Kathleen Ports. Watch this short video to learn all about this new gem in the Town of Bedford!" (Bedford (NH) Community Television via Facebook)
• A clever way to recycle egg cartons: "Look at this clever way to recycle those egg cartons and have some fun with the kids. Miss Jane loves this idea. So cute!🐢" (Town of Bedford Recreation Department via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• Better Phone Photos (August 5)
• Bedford Garden Club's Mum Sale (August 7)
• New Hampshire's First Zero Waste Grocery Store's Grand Opening is August 10, 2023 (August 10)
• Local Meal Service Feast & Fettle, Now Serving Bedford (August 31)
• Add your event

Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll be in your inbox again soon with another update!

— Paula Constance

About me: Paula is a contributing writer, author, and media producer. When she's not writing, you can find her hiking or watching fireflies in the sultry moments before sunset. You can also find her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Bedford Patch newsletter? Contact me at paula.constance.patch@gmail.com