Plymouth Lodge of Elks presents their Americanism and Drug Awareness awards on Installation night. Front Row (L to R) is Americanism Essay Plymouth Lodge’s 1st place and NH State Elk’s 2nd place winner Lexie Cote, Drug Awareness Poster contest for Plymouth Lodge’s 1st place and 2nd place in NH State Elk’s winner Bailey Jenness, Drug Awareness Essay contest Plymouth Lodge’s 1st and 2nd place winner in the NH State Elk’s Emma Woodbury, and Plymouth Lodge’s 2nd place and NH State Elk’s 3rd place Jessica Gosson. Second row is Plymouth Lodge’s Americanism Chairman Kevin Lincoln (left) and Drug Awareness Chairman Rob Burhoe (right). (Courtesy photo)

GILFORD —  The Gilford Old Home Day Committee is currently accepting submissions for the Old Home Day Art Contest. The annual contest will again be sponsored by the Bank of New Hampshire with the top three entries receiving Visa gift cards.
The top entry as selected by the Old Home Day Committee may be used as the artwork for the cover of the Old Home Day Program Booklet. The deadline for all entries is Wednesday, June 5
For more information and art contest guidelines,  contact the Gilford Parks and Recreation Department at 527-4722.

PLYMOUTH — Plymouth State University honored retired horticulturist Steven Sweedler with the Madie W. Barrett Award. Sweedler accepted the award at an April 26 ceremony. Sweedler retired in August, 2011 after serving the University for 35 years. PSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Julie Bernier said Sweedler started work at Plymouth in 1976 and immediately began creating beauty in what had previously not been so.
"An incredible metamorphosis began to take hold," said Bernier. "Each season on campus brought an element of anticipation for color, unusual blossoms and backdrops that any photographer would love. It became apparent that this undertaking had become a labor of love and one of a true visionary."
Sweedler, who was accompanied at the ceremony by his family, said he was honored to be recognized for his work. "It was always a great pleasure and I still take great joy in walking around campus," Sweedler said. "Thank you so much for this award."
Terry Downs of PSU's Art Department said Sweedler's vision, knowledge and efforts have made profound and positive changes to the Plymouth State campus
Madie Ward Barrett was a teacher, scholar and Plymouth State benefactor. She taught French, Spanish and French literature, trained her students in pedagogy and was named Professor Emeriti in 1985. She also served as dean of the college and later served as interim president. She was widely honored, and noted for her dedication to students and to serving the community. The award in her name is presented to a former member of the Plymouth State University community who has, in an extraordinary way, contributed to the advancement of the purpose and mission of the University, and who has made significant and noteworthy contributions in his/her field of endeavor. Furthermore, the recipient shall have served Plymouth State University for at least ten years but not in the period of one year prior to receiving the award.

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Steve Sweedler accepts the Madie Barrett Award from PSU Provost Dr. Julie Bernier. Sweedler is credited with beautifying the Plymouth State campus during his 35-year tenure. (Courtesy photo)