Community Moments
Newest Board Member, Kathy Weymouth
Betsy’s Park board would like to announce our newest board member, Kathy Weymouth. Kathy is a long-time, year-round Holderness resident. She retired in 2020 as dean of students at Holderness School, after 22 years. Kathy is also a board member of Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, VP of SLCS board, and is active with programming for seniors at Betsy’s Park. Welcome, Kathy!
A Note About Brooke House Use at Betsy’s Park
When Brooke House first opened, we shared that it could be reserved for private events and birthday parties. After spending more time
at the park and seeing how beautifully Brooke House is being used, the Board has decided to shift our approach.
Brooke House has become a true community gathering space, a place to warm up, connect, watch children play, share coffee and hot chocolate and enjoy Betsy’s Park together across generations. To preserve that open, welcoming feeling, we’ve decided to close Brooke House for private events on weekends.
At our most recent Board meeting, we agreed on the following guidelines for private use:
Brooke House – Private Event Guidelines
• Private events may be booked midweek only (Monday–Friday)
• Maximum of 15 guests
• Two-hour time limit
• No decorations may be taped or tacked to walls
• Groups must clean up after use
To request a midweek private event, please complete the Facilities Use Form on our website under the Calendar page.
Exceptions:
In rare and special circumstances, the Board may consider a weekend exception for a meaningful private event, such as a memorial service or a retirement or recognition gathering honoring an individual with significant ties to Betsy’s Park or the Squam Watershed community. All exceptions require prior Board approval.
Thank you for understanding and for helping us care for Brooke House so it remains a place the entire community can enjoy.
Ty Gagne
We loved welcoming Ty Gagné to the Brooke House. He did a wonderful job sharing his story, experiences in the White Mountains, and the journey that led to his writing. We’re so grateful for his visit and the meaningful conversation he brought with him.
the burrow
The Burrow is open for putting on skates indoors and it’s an easier walk than heading up to the top of the hill. To get there, walk around to the pond side of the Brooke House and enter through the green door. You’ll find learn-to-skate equipment inside, with hockey sticks located outside, plus a number of sleds available now too. There’s also a bathroom inside.
Hot Chocolate station
We’ve got a hot chocolate bar set up at the Brooke House—help yourself and get cozy. Not in the mood for cocoa? There are a few other drinks hanging out in the fridge too. ☕️✨
CHristmas caroling
Christmas Eve caroling at Betsy’s Park was a great success. It was fun to gather at the pavilion, sing together, and see so many familiar and new faces from the community. Thanks to everyone who came out and made it such an enjoyable evening.
BROOKE HOUSE GRAND OPENING
What a memorable day at Betsy’s Park! 🌳 It was incredible to see our community come together to celebrate the opening of the
Brooke House with live music, great food from Squam Marketplace, and refreshing drinks. Thank you to everyone who showed
their love and support for this special project!
Tree planting
Our tree planting day went well! Thank you to Richard Hodges from BeTreeUs, based in sandwich, for leading the group of wonderful volunteers! We spent the afternoon planting peach, apple, pear, mulberry, blueberry, and elderberry trees and shrubs to help the park grow into a thriving, fruitful space for everyone to enjoy!
Senior luncheon
We had our very first Senior Luncheon at the Brooke House, and it was a huge success! Thirty-seven people joined us for an afternoon filled with laughter, great conversation, and delicious food from Squam Marketplace. Everyone had such a wonderful time—we can’t wait for the next one! If you would like to join our next luncheon please RSVP to the email below.
Please rsvp to: brookehouseseniors@gmail.com
aMERICAN mAHJONG
American MahJong lessons and games have started at the Brooke House! All are welcome — whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player! Feel free to reach out with any questions. Our next session will start in January!
PICKLE BALL
The pickleball and paddle courts have been well-loved by many! To reserve court time, please book through the CourtReserve app.
Want to connect with other players? Join TeamReach to stay in touch and find games.
pictures of our beautiful park!
