🌱 Schools Act After High Lead Tests + Martial Arts Academy Celebrates

Hello, everyone! It's Paula Constance, your host of the Bedford Patch newsletter. Keep reading to find out the most important things happening in Bedford today. In this issue, find news about these stories and more:

• Bedford School District plans for high levels of lead.
• The Concord Coach company moved its headquarters to Bedford, and moved an 1800s coach owned by Henry Ford in Concord until a new local museum is ready.
• Grand opening to celebrate Bedford Martial Arts Academy's second location.

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But first, today's weather: A shower and t-storm; cooler. High: 70 Low: 65.

Here are the top stories in Bedford today:

1. Drinking water at some Bedford schools and childcare facilities has tested high for lead., school administrators say. Drinking water was recently tested in Bedford schools and childcare facilities to comply with New Hampshire House Bill 1421 requiring that testing for lead "and to act when lead is found at levels at or above 5 parts per billion (ppb)." Lead is a toxic heavy metal with no odor or taste that can cause health problems. It often seeps into the water from aging pipes, faucets, and other plumbing. The Bedford School District said in a July post that some water outlets are scheduled for replacement while others will be for "hand washing only." Bedford principals are working with the director of maintenance to put in place remediation plans recommended by the Department of Environmental Services. (Bedford School District SAU#25, Emergency Services, School Board)
2. A horse drawn Concord Coach carriage once owned by Henry Ford will eventually be part of a museum in Concord about the company’s long history in New Hampshire. The coach built in the 1800s was moved Thursday from the former headquarters of the Concord Group, 4 Bouton St. after the company moved to Bedford, New Hampshire. Moving the coach was a "long slow process" as it couldn't be moved by horses due to its age. (Concord Monitor)
3. Bedford Martial Arts Academy will have a grand opening celebration for its second Bedford martial arts location! The event will take place at 273 South River Road on Sunday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fun family events are planned that include "a bounce house, games, prizes, music and classes to help kids get ready for the school year." Let's support this growing Bedford small business! (Bedford Martial Arts Academy via Facebook)

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Today in Bedford:

Friday, August 25

• Company & Nutcracker Auditions — Southern NH Dance Theater (All Day)
• Photograph Pallet Workshop (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Incredible trip: "Looking back at an incredible trip🌎! Girl Scouts from all over the country embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland, Italy, France, and Spain. From Our Chalet to the Roman Aqueducts." (Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains via Facebook)
• Stop by to "Meet the Coaches": "We look forward to seeing you at Meet the Coaches on Monday! Stop by our table and say hello!" (Bedford Bulldogs Athletic Booster Club via Facebook)
• Register for the Discovery Club: "Registration is open for Discovery Club! In each meeting we read a book or two and do a related activity or experiment. Great for practicing listening and cooperative skills! Register here:" (Bedford (NH) Public Library via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• Free Tours and Garden Party at Historic Stark Home (August 27)
• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Fresh Perks Every Week (August 29)
• Local Meal Service Feast & Fettle, Now Serving Bedford (August 31)
• Add your event

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Friday. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow morning with a new 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