GSS Dec. 2, 2022

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As the cold weather approaches, some welcome news is coming to those needing heating assistance this winter. Granite United Way (GUW) will be distributing nearly $60,000 to two greater seacoast nonprofits, Community Action Partnership of Strafford County (CAPSC) and Southern New Hampshire Services, as part of Partners Bank’s generous gift through the Keep Me Warm program in Maine.

“Heat Week” is a fuel assistance partnership between Partners Bank and WMTW news

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media that supports Keep Me Warm. Heat Week will include a corporate contribution and telethon with a corporate match incentive. GUW and United Way of Southern Maine will be dis-

SEED Donates

Seacoast Educational Endowment for Dover (SEED), a nonprofit organization dedicated to lifting academic excellence in Dover public schools, recently awarded approximately $24,825 for enhanced learning curriculum to the schools. This is the second-largest grant cycle since SEED’s inception.

Woodman Park School teacher Lisa Simko was awarded $4,416 to purchase SpaceSaver color-changing light tables and accessories to allow multisensory play and learning for all

kindergarten students, which will be particularly beneficial for neurodiverse learners. These materials will also allow each classroom to more effectively integrate play with the curriculum, foster social skills such as cooperation, and impact student achievement in both literacy and math.

Fellow Woodman Park School teacher Katie Theriault was granted $3,769 to purchase the Green Bronx Machine curriculum and tower garden, an immersive whole-school curriculum that aligns the art and science of growing vegetables with daily academic instruction in all subject areas. This

tributing the funds to nonprofit organizations. Partners Bank has pledged a generous $250,000 gift to the program, with $50,000 of that being a match during the telethon scheduled for December 9. Those wishing to contribute can visit www.partnersheat. com, and choose to direct their funds to either Maine or New Hampshire.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the team at United Way of Southern Maine to bring this to neighbors in the greater seacoast region who need additional support during the cold

winter months,” said Kerry Folkins, Director of Corporate of Engagement for GUW. “Each winter this is one of those areas individuals and families struggle with and to provide access to assistance is an important element of keeping our community safe this winter.”

“Last year the fuel assistance program served just over 2,400 households during the entire the fuel season. This year, when the program opened on November 1, Community Action Partnership of Strafford County has already enrolled 2,439 house-

holds, and the appointments are booked out for three weeks,” said Betsey Andrews Parker, CEO of CAPSC. “We expect households to exhaust their benefits in the first two months of the program due to high energy costs. The donations will help us assist clients during the coldest months of the year.”

If you are in need of heating assistance, dial 211 or visit www.211nh.org to be connected to resources. For more information, call 603-625-6939 or visit www.graniteuw.org, www.straffordcap.org, and www.snhs.org.

to Dover Public Schools

strategies to be better listeners, learners, and active participants in the learning environment.

In this grant cycle, Gorski was awarded $1,685 to provide selfregulation tools and information on Zones of Regulation throughout the entire school, benefiting all classrooms, teachers, and student families.

project-based and standardsaligned learning experience help students learn critical thinking and problem-solving as they explore, discover, and create their own ecosystems.

In 2018, SEED awarded

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Also at Woodman Park School, Jill Fredrickson and Caitlin Duffy partnered to request a $925 SEED grant for podcast equipment bundles to create the “Podcast at the Park” pilot program. The equipment will create two podcasting sta-

WDH Security Officer Honored by Celtics

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The Boston Celtics honored WentworthDouglass Hospital (WDH) security officer Andy Clark during their game against the Detroit Pistons on November 16.

On September 12, Clark rushed to a vehicle, parked just outside the hospital’s Garrison Wing entrance, after a patient gave birth to a baby in her car. He assisted the child by unwrapping the umbilical cord that was around its neck. The encounter was covered by numerous local media outlets. Clark and his family received VIP treatment from the team, and he was given a standing ovation by the sold-out crowd at the TD Garden.

Katie Gorski with an initial grant to implement the Zones of Regulation program in her classroom. Not all students can sit and listen throughout the school day; by learning the zones and accessing tools, students learn

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A Christmas Carol at the

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The Players’ Ring, 105 Marcy Street, Portsmouth, is performing “A Christmas Carol,” adapted and directed by Michael J. Tobin, through December 22.

While this adaptation remains true to Charles Dickens’ beloved novella, action prevails over narration in this engaging production of “A Christmas Carol.” With more than 100 costume pieces and wigs, period set pieces and props, and numerous special effects, be transported to the Victorian 1800s from the very moment you step into the lobby. The show also features plenty of traditional and original music.

Michael J. Tobin is an award-winning actor and director, blessed with more than 400 shows on his resume since 1981. He has worked all over the country, including off-Broadway, national tours, regional theaters, dinner theaters, summer stock, and arts venues from coast to (almost) coast. He is a produced and published playwright, theater educator, theater administrator, and all things “techie,” including designer. Michael is the founder and executive artistic director of the Footlights Theatre in Falmouth.

“My love of this ghost story began as a youth when, every

Christmas Eve, I would watch the Alastair Sim version before bed – a tradition that carried over into adulthood. In 1982, I started performing in various versions on stages throughout the country, first playing Bob Cratchit and then growing into the Ghost of Present, and finally aging into the role of the ol’ Humbug

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Ring Piscataqua Science Cafe with the Gundalow Company

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The Gundalow Company announces its next Piscataqua Science Cafe on December 14 at the North Country Hard Cider Company, 38 Littleworth Road, Dover. Check out traditional boatbuilding featuring local master builders, indoors, 5:306:30 p.m.

ing boatbuilding classes, and taking part the museum’s high school apprentice program, which he created with the whaleboat project for Mystic Seaport’s restoration of the Charles W. Morgan in 2012.

himself. In 1992, I adapted my own version that was, indeed, a ghost story as Dickens intended – a journey that would make audiences feel all the emotions and truly leave the theater with Christmas spirit.”

For tickets and more information, visit www.playersring. org or call 603-436 8123.

Great Bay Philharmonic String Quartet at Music Hall Lounge

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The Great Bay Philharmonic Orchestra presents its second concert of the 2022-2023 season on Friday, December 9 at 8 p.m. at the Music Hall Lounge, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth.

An exquisite string quartet, featuring Jesse Irons and Asuka Usui on violin, Jason Fisheron on viola, and Jacques Lee Wood on cello, bring sparkling holi-

day favorites and quartet masterpieces to life. The program includes Mozart’s String Quartet in C major for Strings, K. 465 “Dissonance,” and Joseph Haydn’s String Quartet No. 63, “Sunrise,” among many other holiday favorites.

Jesse Irons can be found on stages throughout Boston, enjoying a busy and excitingly diverse musical life. As a

Boatbuilder Nate Piper is the owner of Piper Boatworks in Rye and the director of the Boatshop at Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth. In 2016, he founded the shop as a way to explore and celebrate maritime skills, experiences, and traditions, through hands-on boat building, workshops, lectures, and other activities.

As executive director and master boatbuilder at Lowell’s Boat Shop in Amesbury, MA, Graham McKay is responsible for overseeing museum and boatbuilding operations, teach-

member and co-artistic director of “A Far Cry,” he recently received a Grammy nomination, and has appeared in concerts across North America, Europe, and Central and Southeast Asia. Irons’ playing has been described as “insinuating” by the New York Times, and he’s pretty sure they meant it in a good way. He has played with the Boston Early Music Festival, the Handel and Haydn Society, Boston Baroque, and numerous small ensembles around Boston. He recently performed as concert master with the Great Bay Philharmonic Orchestra.

Asuka Usui is a former student of the great violin pedagogue Eric Rosenblith. She has appeared with the Boston Lyric Opera, Boston Landmarks Orchestra, Portland Symphony, Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra, Boston Philharmonic, Topeka Symphony, Miami Pops, and Florida Symphony. She has spent past summers performing at the International Musical Arts Institute in Maine, and the Ameropa Chamber Music Festival in Prague, as well teaching on the violin faculty at the Caritas String Summer Festival

The Piscataqua Science Cafe series runs during the Gundalow Company’s off season at locations around the seacoast. Each night brings experts from a variety of backgrounds for a discussion about current science topics. This project was funded, in part, by NOAA’s Office for Coastal Management under the Coastal Zone Management Act in conjunction with the NH Department of Environmental Services Coastal Program.

The Gundalow Company is located at 60 Marcy Street, Portsmouth. For more information, call 603-433-9505 or visit www.gundalow.org.

in Edinburgh. Usui maintains a private violin studio, and teaches in the Arlington Public Schools.

Jason Fisher, is a Carnegie Hall Fellow and a Peabody Singapore Fellow, and has toured Europe, Asia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and has given concerts at Vienna Musikverein, Singapore Esplanade, the Kennedy Center, and Carnegie Hall. He has performed with Pink Martini, Jake Shimabukuro, Itzakh Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Renée Fleming, Kiri Te Kanawa, and members of the Florestan Trio. Fisher performs frequently as a band member and contractor for musical theatre at the American Repertory Theater. He is on the chamber music and viola faculty at the Rivers School Conservatory, and plays on an English viola by Richard Duke, 1768.

A Boston-based cellist Jacques Lee Wood has performed around the world as a solo artist, chamber, and orchestral musician. His activities as a performer and guest lecturer reflect a broad range

Players’

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The 32nd Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition is now open at the Portsmouth Historical Society (PHS) galleries at 10 Middle Street, Portsmouth through December 22. The gingerbread houses will be on display at downtown businesses that are participating in the Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt.

This year’s theme of fictional places and characters was inspired by two exhibitions in 2022 at PHS that featured children’s book illustrations. “Entries in this year’s contest and exhibition will include classic characters near and dear to many, magical castles, and favorite fantasy landscapes that are sure to put people in the holiday spirit,” said Sabina Ion, marketing manager.

According to Jeff Barraclough, president of the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail (NHHMT), the events at the historical society represent just “a small sampling” of holiday-themed events on the NHHMT this season. “From

Portsmouth up to the Lakes Region and down to Manchester, there is plenty to do on the

trail that celebrates the holidays,” he said.

For more information, visit www.nhmuseumtrail.org and www.portsmouthhistory.org.

Photo to the left: Gingerbread contest entry depicting “Strega Nona,” a book whose artwork was featured in the picture books exhibition earlier this year.

Rock My Soul is Back with Rockin’, Soulful, Holiday Shows

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Rock My Soul, a highly acclaimed, 30-member choir and band that specializes in rich harmonies and unique arrangements of roots, blues, Americana, and gospel music, will perform three rockin’, soulful, holiday concerts in New Hampshire: St. John’s Methodist Church in Dover, at 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 11; Orchard Chapel, as part of the 12 Nights of Christmas Concert Series in Hampton Falls, at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 16; and First United Methodist Church in Portsmouth, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 17.

singer of the Soggy Po’ Boys, as one of our soloists,” said Boyer. “He always does so much to help us pull out all the stops and raise the bar even higher.”

PSO’s Family Holiday Pops

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The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra (PSO) will perform two Family Holiday Pops concerts on Saturday, December 17, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 18 at 3 p.m., at Portsmouth High School, 50 Andrew Jarvis Dr., Portsmouth.

An annual family favorite, this year’s Family Holiday Pops performance features the Portsmouth High School Concert Choir. The festive program is appropriate for audiences of all ages and will include a seasonal blend of music from beloved holiday movies and classic Christ-

mas favorites.

“We’re so excited to be able to bring back the family singalong portion of our Family Holiday Pops performance this year,” said John Page, PSO music director. “This annual tradition is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit.”

Admission is $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, and $15 students.

The PSO’s 25th mainstage series continues on December 31 with a New Year’s Eve Champagne Pops concert at the Music Hall in Portsmouth. For more information, visit www.portsmouthsymphony.org or call 603-686-8133.

of interests – historical performance on period instruments, commissioning new works for both modern and baroque cello, improvisation incorporating live electronics, and composing his own material. Dr. Wood is principal cello of the Cape Symphony, and a member of several musical groups including Aston Magna, StringLab, Pedroia Quartet, Antico Moderno, and the NYC-based bluegrass band Cathedral Parkway. He is a frequent guest artist at the Great Mountains Festival (South Korea), Korea Strings Research Institute, Bari International Music Festival, Banff Centre, Avaloch Farm, Aston Magna, and Manchester Summer Chamber Music Festival.

For tickets, call 603-4362400 or visit www.themusichall. org, and www.greatbayphilharmonic.com for more information.

“It’s become a tradition for many people to attend our holiday shows,” said Dawn Boyer, founder and director of Rock My Soul. “Some have come since the group started in 2004, and we’re eager to perform again for them, as well as new audience members. We have many new singers and some of the best musicians in the region, and the group sounds better than ever.”

Songs will range from new renditions of familiar tunes such as “White Christmas” and an Aretha Franklin-inspired arrangement of “Joy to the World” to the less familiar but no less inspiring “Prince of Peace,” as well as playful and uplifting songs like Louis Armstrong’s “’Zat You, Santa Claus.”

“This year, in addition to being excited about our repertoire and our new singers, we’ll be welcoming back Stu Dias, lead

In addition to Dias, featured soloists will include Dawn Boyer, Ginny Cole, Alex Krauth, Dave Morrison, and Terry Olson. The Rock My Soul band – Mike Effenberger on keyboards, Jim Dozet on guitar, Dan MacLellan on bass, John Mettam on drums, Jimmy Clark on trumpet, and Nick Mainella on saxophone –will accompany the group. The December 11 show in Dover will also feature The Whatever Four barbershop quartet as a warmup act.

Rock My Soul is part of ProjectMusicWorks, a nonprofit arts and cultural organization dedicated to performing free outreach concerts at hospice, homeless shelters, nursing homes, rehab programs, and other facilities that support those in need.

Purchasing the advanced discount tickets are highly recommended since shows tend to sell out quickly! For the December 11 show in Dover and December 17 show in Portsmouth, visit www.projectmusicworks. org or call 207-450-8016. For the December 16 show at Orchard Chapel, visit www.thewordbarn. com or text 603-244-0202.

NHTP Presents Jennifer Munro in “A Christmas Carol”

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New Hampshire Theatre Project (NHTP) continues the season with Jennifer Munro in “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. This one-woman, theatrical performance will be held December 9-10 at 8 p.m. and December 11 at 2 p.m.

A native of Great Britain, Munro, an award-winning storyteller, actor, and author, brings Scrooge, the Cratchits, and the Fezziwigs vibrantly to life in her dramatic, and thoroughly English, interpretation of Dickens’ literary classic. Enjoy this tale of heartbreak, redemption, and joy, as Dickens intended it: on a bare stage with just the power of the human voice to capture hearts and imaginations. As he created the story, Dickens says he wept over, laughed over, and wept over it again – and you will, too. This program is recommended for ages 12 and up.

NHTP’s season theme is about legacy and transformation: What do we leave behind?

“The classic story of how Ebenezer Scrooge healed his wounded heart one Christmas Eve,” said NHTP executive director Genevieve Aichele, “embodies our season theme profoundly. Will we leave behind bitterness and hate, or will we choose a legacy of love and joy?”

Munro fell in love with

the spoken word as a child growing up in a large workingclass family in the industrial Midlands in England. Every Sunday, a cast of rogues, ne’erdo-wells, raconteurs, and heroes gathered around the family’s old wooden table to tell stories, share secrets, and gossip. Their tales are the inspiration for her extensive repertoire of stories – and twenty-five-year profession as a storyteller. Poignant, funny, and profoundly moving, Munro’s stories are carefullycrafted narratives that resonate with the frailty and courage of the human spirit.

Monro has garnered numerous awards such as the National Storytelling Network’s prestigious Circle of Excellence Award, winner in Storytelling World Magazine for her three recordings and short story collection, “Aunty Lily and other Delightfully Perverse Stories.”

PHS Host to Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibit

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The Jingle All The Way 5K is back! So, dig out your ugly sweaters, winter hats and gloves, and join on Saturday, December 10 at Cisco Brewers Corporate Drive, Portsmouth. The run/ walk will be followed by a festive post-race celebration with live music, delicious food, and amazing drinks. Festive holiday outfits will be rewarded for some of the best-dressed participants. This event can also be enjoyed virtually.

Race-day registration and bib pick-up will start at 8 a.m. with a 10 a.m. race start, and after party beginning at 10:15 a.m. Registration includes a commemorative race medal, long-sleeve race

shirt, post-race Cisco Brewers beer (for 21+), post-race food, and exclusive GHF x CISCO hoodie, winter hat, and more.

This event benefits the Greg Hill Foundation (www. thegreghillfoundation.org), which responds to immediate requests for assistance, improving the lives of local families touched by tragedy, via matching the charitable donation of Greg’s media audience.

For more information, email Meagan Wood at meagan@fmpproductions.com, visit www.portsmouthchamber. org, or register at www.raceroster.com/events/2022/64527/ the-greg-hill-foundation-jingleall-the-way-5k.

Portsmouth Pro Musica Presents December Concerts

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This holiday season, Portsmouth Pro Musica will present J.S. Bach’s Cantata #140, “Sleepers, Wake!” at two seacoast performances. As one of Bach’s most familiar and performed cantatas, based on a hymn-tune written by Philip Nicolai in 1599, “Wachet auf,” Cantata #140 will be performed in German accompanied by Sam Partyka and fea- turing a chamber orchestra and soloists, Maggie O’Neill and Fred Calcinari. Several additional holiday pieces, specially selected by Portsmouth Pro Musica’s artistic director, Priscilla Stevens French, will round out the program.

The first performance will be held on Friday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary Church, 25 Chestnut Street, Dover. The

second performance will take place on Saturday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 98 Summer Street, Portsmouth. Advance ticket pricing is $15, $13 for students and seniors, and at the door: $20 and $15. Tickets may be purchased at www.portsmouthpromusica.org or from any chorus member.

Portsmouth Pro Musica is dedicated to providing an enriching musical experience to its members and audiences through the scholarship and presentation of diverse professional-level choral repertoire. The chorus draws its voices from the greater seacoast area, including New Hampshire, southern Maine, and northern Massachusetts. New singers are welcome to audition for the spring 2023 concert term.

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The Art Center, 1 Washington St., Dover, is delighted to present the Annual Contemporary and Abstract Exhibition on display in the gallery. Saving the best for last, this annual art show is the center’s yearly crowning achievement.

New this year, the Art Center has a featured-artist section on the Stage Gallery. Jazzscapes is a perfect compliment to

the Contemporary and Abstract Show with an eclectic collection of paintings by established seacoast contemporary artists who refer to themselves as Abstract

4. Tom Glover, Peter Cady, Dustan Knight, and Barbara Adams, spent a year collaborating on Jazzscapes, a robust exposition where each artist challenged themself to create new ways of portraying and abstracting their appreciation of

jazz music.

The Annual Contemporary and Abstract Exhibition and Jazzscapes by Abstract 4 will be on display at through December with an artist’s reception on December 10, 6-9 p.m. For more information, visit www.theartcenterdover.com or call 603-978-6702.

Left photo: “G-d of Cups” by Beth Wittenberg. Right photo: The Abstract 4.

Choral Society Performs “Love Shall Be

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The Rockingham Choral Society will perform “Love Shall Be Our Token,” a program of Advent and Christmas works for choir, brass quintet, organ, and percussion on December 10, at 7:30 p.m. at First Parish Congregational Church, 218 Central Avenue, Dover, and December 11, at 3:30 p.m. at Christ Church Episcopal, 43 Pine Street, Exeter.

The holiday performance, featuring 95 voices, will include works of New England composers Gwyneth Walker, Kevin Siegfried, Nicholas White, and Daniel Pinkham. The choir will be joined by organist Bruce Adami, the Portsmouth Brass Quintet, and percussionists, Matthew Redmond and Zach King. Audiences will be invited to lend their voices to Stephen Chatman’s “Christmas Joy” at the close of the performance.

“This year’s holiday program explores a full range of emotion and color appropriate to the season, from the brilliant and celebratory to the sober and reflective,” noted Kristofer Johnson, artistic director. “Paired with an array of talented instrumentalists, this year’s concerts promise to be truly memorable.”

Tickets are $15 at the door and $14 in advance, children six and under are free. Advance tickets can be purchased at www. rockinghamchoral.org and from any choral society member.

She has been featured at major festivals across the nation, most notably the National Storytelling Festival, TN, and the Timpanogos Festival, UT.

Tickets for live performances are $30, $26 for students, seniors, and veterans. Tickets for the December 11 livestream performance are $20. For more information, visit www.nhtheatreproject.org or call 603-431-6644.

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The Franklin Gallery at RiverStones Custom Framing, 33 North Main Street, Rochester, will host an exhibit during the month of December entitled “Here and There; Far and Near.” It features the work of Tom Glover and Lawrence Driscoll.

Although he has a degree in studio art, Driscoll spent most of his career teaching art to middle school students in Somersworth and Rochester. In recent years, the Barrington resident has started painting again.

“I rediscovered my passion

for the sky, clouds in particular.

The colors, textures, shapes, forms, and contrasts fascinate and, as it turns out, inspire me.

This, combined with my longtime love of the English countryside and newfound love of the Sonoran Desert, has motivated me to capture and share my love for these two beautiful places.”

Tom Glover is a local artist as well as a framer at RiverStones.

He took a group of paintings out of the “great exodus of paintings going from my old studio to my new home studio. In that transition, I had to sift through about

3S Artspace Happenings

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The following events are happening at 3S Artspace, 319 Vaughan St., Portsmouth, this December. For more information or tickets, call 603-766-3330 or visit www.3Sarts.org.

“Transmuting the Prosaic” Exhibit

Roger Clark Miller’s vinyl record-based installations explore naturally occurring events often considered ordinary, mundane, or unwanted: traffic patterns, rock formations, record surface noise, the structure of dreams. He transforms every-

day occurrences and opens doors behind them to present them from a contrasting viewpoint, revealing unexpected beauty.

“Walking Out of the Shadows” Exhibit

Sara Nguyen’s hand-cut fiber panels dissolve the boundaries between waking life and dreams. Using abstract and representational forms, Sarah severs the connection between shape and meaning, connecting the viewer instead to the gesture of the brush or cut of the knife, so they become complicit in the art.

Folklore, reverence and refine-

four hundred paintings!”

He has done artist retreats such as on Great Spruce Head Island, where he was able to use Fairfield Porters easel to paint, travelled extensively, been artist-in-residence on Appledore Island, and presently teaches at Sanctuary Arts in Eliot, ME. However, as of late, his work has focused on “the piers, docks, flotsam and jetsam one finds along the coast of Maine and New Hampshire.”

For more information, call 603-812-1488 or visit www.riverstonescustomframing.com.

ment of nature, and observance of daily life are concepts behind her work.

Long Story Short Join the story-telling of “Long Story Short: Growing Pains” on Wednesday, December 14, at 7 p.m. Youth is wasted on the young, or so they say. For all we enjoy in energy and glowing looks, youth is a time of uncertainty, big mistakes, and exploring new personas. This show features stories about the good, bad, and ugly of growing up and the wisdom gained along the way.

See ARTSPACE on page 12 . .

Funky Divas of Gospel Christmas Concert in Hampton

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Hampton United Methodist Church, 525 Lafayette Road, Hampton, is hosting the “Funky Divas of Gospel Christmas Concert” at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 11. This one-hour concert will feature familiar holiday songs and carols, combined with the musicianship and vocal harmonies of which the Funky Divas are known.

The Funky Divas of Gospel have been a fixture at concert venues in New Hampshire and Maine for more than 25 years. The group features three seacoast-area singers, Diane Arabian, Carolyn Hutton, and Vicky Poland, backed by the funky band. The band is comprised of

long-time musicians, guitarist and singer Dan Poland, bassist Tom Kesel, multi-instrumentalist Pete Leavenworth (playing pedal steel, dobro, and banjo), and percussionist Sean Haney. This concert is suitable for all ages. A free-will offering will be collected, with proceeds to support the outreach and mission programs of Hampton United Methodist Church. For more information, visit www. hamptonnhumc.org or call 603926-2702.

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Garrison Players Arts Center, 449 Roberts Road, Rollinsford, presents “Inspecting Carol, A New Holiday Tradition/Disaster,” on stage through December 18.

The story is described as: “A Christmas Carol” meets “The Government Inspector” meets “Noises Off.” A man who asks to audition at a small theater is mistaken as an informer for the National Endowment

for the Arts. Everyone caters to the bewildered wannabe actor, and he is given a role in the current production of “A Christmas Carol.” Everything goes wrong, and hilarity is piled upon hilarity in this comical hit.

The show runs Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 pm. Tickets are $20, and $15 for student. For more information, visit www.garrisonplayers.org or 603-750-4278.

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The Lane House Arts Center (LHAC), 380 Lafayette Road, Hampton is hosting their third annual “Art for the Holidays” exhibit through December 22, featuring more than 30 artists in a wide range of mediums and styles.

Simultaneously, LHAC is hosting a food and item drive and fundraiser to support the Hampton Community Coalition at Hobbs House, which is an allvolunteer, grass-roots program supporting families in need in the Hampton area. This will

continue through December 21.

For more information, call 603-926-1111 or visit www.lanehousearts.com and www.hamptoncommunitycoalition.org.

Photo above: Woodwork by Gary McGrath.

“Inspecting Carol, A New Holiday Tradition/Disaster” “Art for the Holidays” Exhibit

STATEWIDE

Books By NH Authors for the Holidays

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It’s time to get serious about wrapping up holiday shopping and there’s no better way than to give the gift of reading, particularly books written by local authors. The New Hampshire Writers’ Project (www.nhwritersproject.org) has compiled a guide of NH member authors’ 2022 releases to help you choose the perfect book for the readers on your list.

“All the Flowers of the Mountain” by Christina Holbrook, published by Sun Room Studios. Set in the 1970s amidst the mountains, farmlands, and elegant summer homes of rural New Hampshire, the story is about a pivotal summer for Michael and Kit. Perfect for fans of Delia Owens and Nicholas Sparks, this debut novel is a haunting exploration of trauma, the abuse of privilege, desire and a mysterious event from the past that leads to a deadly showdown by summer’s end, and decisions that will break Michael’s heart. Available through Amazon and most independent bookstores.

“Bloody Soil” by S. Lee Manning, published by Encircle Publications. A mysterious American, Michael Hall, is required to kill a Jewish activist as an initiation into a neo-Nazi group in Berlin. Michael then becomes the target of Lisette, who has infiltrated the group to avenge the murder of her father. But is Michael the murderer she thinks he is – or is he working to prevent Germany Now’s planned coup? Available through Amazon.

“Conspiracy in Bologna” by Ken Tentarelli. Set in Renaissance Italy, 1465. Young lawyer Nico Argenti is dispatched to Bologna

to investigate rogue mercenaries near the Florentine border. There, he unearths a connection between the mercenaries and a renegade with a vendetta against Florence. His challenge is to stop the rogues before they wreak havoc on his beloved city. “Conspiracy in Bologna” is the fourth book in the best-selling Nico Argenti historical mystery series. It may be read as a standalone. Available through Amazon.

“Drakemaster” by E.C. Ambrose, published by Guardbridge Books. In this epic historical fantasy novel, an unlikely team races to stop a clockwork doomsday device set to destroy an invading Mongol army – and half the Chinese countryside. Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and other stores.

“Ladykillers” by J.L. Long. This cozy-style mystery novel follows the misadventures of middleaged trans lesbian Ro Peszke, former cop and current private investigator, as she stumbles her way through a missing persons case, a fledgling romance with a woman ten years her junior, and entirely too much New England snow. Available at https://bit. ly/3GYd84K.

“MFA Thesis Novel” by Ian A. Rogers, published by Vine Leaves Press. A delicious romp through the smudged halls of academia, this book will make you laugh out loud as pretenders, druggies, hapless romantics, and the slightly talented do battle in fiction, trying to invent a book that will save them from the fate of ordinary life. Available at https://bit.ly/3udVG4J.

“The Myrtle Wand” by Margaret Porter, published by Gallica Press. A valiant and resourceful princess confronts love, loss, and destiny at Louis XIV’s scandalous court

in this reimagining and continuation of the classic ballet Giselle. Award-winning and bestselling author Porter restores original story elements to transform a tale of blighted romances and betrayals into a quest for redemption and restorative love. Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, independent book stores, and www. margaretporter.com.

“The Sons of Abraham” by Robert Napolitano. Twin boys, Ishmael and Isaac, are born to Katherine and Abraham Carter on New Year’s Eve 1943 in a small, rural town in Southwest New Hampshire. The story picks up in 1958 and we find that Isaac is a serious teenager who tries his best to be a good son, a good person and a good friend. Isaac’s biggest problem is Ishmael. He feels responsible as the older brother to protect Isaac from the harshness of this world, the harshness that can destroy an innocent soul.

Ishmael would do anything for Isaac. Anything. Available through Amazon.

“Moxie Cinnamon Creampuff: The Nose Knows” by Mary Marchese with Illustrations by Caterina Baldi. What if you’re a dog with an incredible nose that smells trouble? What if your family thinks you’re just an ordinary dog that does what all dogs do—tracks mud into the house and sometimes chews things that should be respectfully ignored? Find out how Moxie Cinnamon Creampuff puts facts together and leads her family and the police on a chase to catch a thief. Available through Amazon.

“Skystrike: Wings of Justice” By E.C. Ambrose, published by Choice of Games. Swoop, smash and stealth your way to victory against the growing armies of the RatKing in this interactive, hometown hero adventure. Available at www.choiceofgames.com/ skystrike/.

“How to Ace Your Comeback” by

David Gibb, published by Mouse House Books. Killer Ace Black was almost a big pro wrestling star in the late ‘80s, but then he wasn’t. Now, after decades of being blackballed from the squared circle, he’s back for one last shot at glory. The only problem? Somebody’s threatened to murder him, and nobody’s taking it seriously. Can Ace survive via his signature blend of guile, charisma, and sheer refusal to let anybody catch a quick one on him? Will he evade the deadly masked Ruinator long enough to make his comeback? Does he still have it? You’ll have to tune in and find out, cupcake. Available through Amazon.

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tions for third- and fourth-grade students to increase competency in collaboration, critical and innovative thinking, communication, and citizenship.

At Dover Middle School, two SEED grants were given. The first to language arts teacher Kim Conrad for an authorin-residency program for the 7th grade. With $750 of SEED funding, students will participate in video conferences with Ben Mikaelsen, author of “Touching Spirit Bear.” Pupils will have the opportunity to interact with a professional writer and learn about Mikaelsen’s writing process, how he came to be so involved and invested in the process of restorative justice, and hear his anti-bullying message.

The second Dover Middle School SEED grant went to Jane Salach to purchase whiteboard collaborative table sets, valued at $4,846. The whiteboard tabletop allows students to freely brainstorm, take notes or collaborate on ideas, and can be easily rearranged for larger groups and a variety of activities.

include increased student engagement and collaboration, an international keyboard, print translator, and visual dictionaries. iPads can also provide students with alternative, multimodal means to demonstrate learning until their oral language in English is more developed.

Dover High School is currently without a broadcasting class, radio station, or TV studio, which limits student exposure to 21st-century communication tools. History teacher Eric Salmonsen was awarded a $275 SEED grant to purchase equipment to allow students to create and edit regular podcasts for the student body. Project-based learning helps students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to communicate effectively with others. The collaborative nature of projects also reinforces the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs.

“37 Words: Title IX and Fifty Years of Fighting Sex Discrimination” by Sherry Boschert, published by The New Press. The 1972 civil rights law popularly known as Title IX profoundly changed U.S. society by prohibiting sex discrimination in federally funded education. In this book, award-winning journalist Boschert explores the gripping history of Title IX through the gutsy people behind it. The story is a legislative and legal drama that maps gains and setbacks for feminism in the last 50 years. It’s also a human story weaving intersecting narratives of women seeking an education, playing sports, and wanting protection from sexual harassment. Available at https:// bit.ly/3UgR0Wv.

“Genocide: The Shameful, Unspoken History of Crimes Against Humanity in the United States” by Terri O’Rorke. O’Rorke explores the richness and beauty of America and the duty of all who live in the country to care for it. It is incumbent upon all individuals living in the country to preserve and enhance that richness of diverse cultures and beauty of land for future generations, while teaching them to do the same. In the words of the late Woody Guthrie, “This land was made for you and me.” But, in our nearly 250 years, have we, as a civilized nation, lived up to those words in the way we have treated each other in the past and the present?” Available through Amazon.

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Meanwhile, at Dover High School, ESOL teacher Kiley Hemphill earned an $8,159 SEED grant for her proposal to purchase iPads to provide linguistic support for beginning English learners. Integrating iPads into the ESOL program will provide a tool for students at all levels of English language proficiency to engage deeply in their learning. iPad benefits

SEED has more than 10 years of underwriting tools, technology, and training in Dover public schools in order to create a 21st-century learning environment. Completely funded by philanthropic giving by businesses and individuals, SEED has provided more than $300,000 in grants to provide students with the skills needed for success after high school. To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit www.doverseed. org.

Computers4Vets

is a 501(c)3 non-profit that helps veterans who can’t afford a computer system.

Seeking desktops, laptops, netbooks, or tablets... whether they work or not. Accessories also accepted, such as keyboards, mouses, cables, old software, which can be reused. Monitors and printers accepted in working order only. Hard drives will be thoroughly cleaned to a DoD level. All donations are tax deductible.

Know a veteran in need of a computer?

Contact Mark Grimshaw at 603-734-2340 or computers4vets@comcast.net and visit www.computers4vets.org.

“A Sprinkling of Stardust Over the Outhouse: Musings, Memories, Madness and Pillow Talk” by Paul E. Brogan. Paul came out as gay when he was ten in the early 1960s and faced a number of obstacles for doing so. He approached them without losing sight of who he was, eventually winning over the naysayers who urged him to be someone other than himself. This true account is rich in detail as it tells Brogan’s story with humor and heart as well as harsh and sometimes shockingly brutal reality. His story includes insightful anecdotes about friends made along the way, such as Doris Day, Carol Channing, and Katharine Hepburn. Available through Amazon.

“All the Stars I Can Swallow” by Laurie D. Morrissey, published by Redmoon Press. This is Morrissey’s second volume of haiku. Her sensitivity to the passing seasons, reverence for the outdoor world, and playfulness with language make this collection one to savor. These well-crafted haiku refl ect the mind of a poet attuned to the details and nuances of everyday life that matter most. The poems are complemented by selected photographs by New Hampshire photographer Sue Burns. Available at www.gibsonsbookstore.com and www. redmoonpress.com.

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Monteverde

GBW Management Welcomes

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Granite Bay Wealth Management (GBWM) is pleased to announce that Bryan Monteverde has joined their team as vice president. With an expertise in lending and divorce financial settlements, he will provide depth to the firm with a proficiency that will help Granite Bay Wealth Management clients through the difficult financial decisions associated with divorce.

Monteverde graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown with a bachelor’s in finance and a minor in economics. He has over 15 years of experience in the financial service industry.

Before joining GBWM, he spent more than ten years working with the Bank of New York Mellon Wealth Management helping design, implement, and administer estate and investment strategies for high-net-worth families in various capacities. Monteverde worked as a privately-held business advisor for individuals owning privately-held family businesses. After completing a comprehensive credit training program, he then worked as a senior private banker and advised his clients on credit, cash management, and interest rate hedging strategies.

After over a decade working in wealth management, Monteverde joined Divorce

Outcomes as a financial consultant where he was guiding families and business owners through the financial complexities of divorce.

“We are excited to add Brian’s experience and knowledge to the Granite Bay team. It is rare to find a like-minded person who fits with our culture and also has such a broad range of industry experience that can help our clients,” said Paul Stanley, CFP™, CPM®, managing partner at GBWM.

Monteverde’s previous affiliations include the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA), CFA Society of Boston, and the Exit Planning Institute (EPI). He has successfully completed level one of the Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA®) exam.

Granite Bay Wealth Management offices are located at 767 Islington Street, Portsmouth. For more information, visit www. granitebaywm.com.

Working Capital Loans Available Due to Disaster Declarations for Drought

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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced that federal Economic injury Disaster Loans are available in New Hampshire for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofit organizations with economic losses due to drought that began August 16. The declaration includes the counties of Cheshire, Hillsborough, Rockingham, Merrimack, Strafford, and Sullivan.

“When the Secretary of Agriculture issues a disaster declaration to help farmers recover from damages and losses to crops, the Small Business Administration issues a declaration to eligible entities, affected by the same disaster,” said Kem Fleming, director of SBA’s Field Operations

Center East.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible farm-related and nonfarm-related entities that suffered financial losses as a direct result of this disaster. Apart from aquaculture enterprises, SBA cannot provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, and ranchers. Nurseries are eligible to apply for economic injury disaster loans for losses caused by drought conditions.

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates of 3.04 percent for small businesses and 1.875 percent for private nonprofit organizations, with terms up to 30 years. These working capital loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the

disaster not occurred. The loans are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.

Applicants may apply online using the electronic loan application via the SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ ela/s/ and should apply under SBA declaration #17601. Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling 1-800659-2955 or emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded from www.sba. gov/disaster, completed, and mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. Application deadline is no later than April 24, 2023.

Granite United Way Receives $65,000 in IRS Funding to Enhance Free Tax Prep Program

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The Internal Revenue Service recently awarded $41 million in Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) grants to organizations that provide free federal tax return preparation. Granite United Way (GUW) was the only New Hampshire-based organization to receive VITA funding.

ing residents throughout New Hampshire,” said Cary Gladstone, area director for GUW, who oversees the program. “This volunteer-based program helps low to moderate income households claim critical refunds like the Earned Income Tax Credit.”

provide free federal tax return preparation and electronic filing. The grant program also helps expand VITA services to underserved populations.

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Northeast Credit Union (NCU) is pleased to announce the addition of Gina Jones (left photo) to their senior leadership team as vice president of product. As a 15-year experienced leader in the financial services industry, jones previously has held the positions of vice president, strategy and vice president, operational delivery for Partner’s Federal Credit Union in Orlando, FL.

“Gina has extensive experience in the credit union industry, excels in leading cross-functional teams, and is adept at designing exactly the type of products, services, and experiences that align with our strategic intent. We are thrilled to have her here to help us further our mission,” said Sean McNair, chief member experience and digital officer at Northeast.

“I am grateful and inspired to join Northeast Credit Union at such an amazing time. As we continue to expand outreach, I am excited to be a part of helping to create and develop our product team,” said Jones.

NCU is also pleased to announce the promotion of Traci Tenggren (right photo) to senior vice president, chief human resources officer.

“For the past six years, Traci has been hands-on in the leadership and support of our human resources and learning & development departments, implementing programs that have grown our organization and talent pool. She plays an integral role in the success of our operations, and we’re excited to have her expand her duties in this new role,” said Chris Parker, president and CEO.

As an experienced human resources professional with over

This year, the IRS awarded 348 grants across the country. Granite United Way received a $65,000 award for their VITA program. GUW applied on behalf of the CA$H (Creating Assets, Savings & Hope) Coalition, which is led by the organization.

“This funding will help to enhance our services, help -

The TCE program, established in 1978, provides free tax counseling and federal return preparation to individuals who are age 60 or older. Volunteers receive training and technical support to provide assistance at community locations across the nation.

The VITA program, created in 1969, assists underserved communities, such as low- to moderate-income individuals and limited English proficient taxpayers. VITA grant recipients

GUW is also seeking volunteers to join the program for the upcoming tax season. Training is provided. Those interested should contact Gladstone at 603-224-2595 x 230 or cary.gladstone@graniteuw.org.

GUW is dedicated to leveraging the resources of investors and volunteers to create lasting change by addressing the underlying causes of our community’s most pressing needs – including services that help individuals and families learn, earn, and be healthy. For more information, visit www. graniteuw.org.

engaged our teams are as we continue to gain momentum.”

20 years in the finance industry, Tenggren will oversee programs and departments that shape the internal culture of the credit union while growing membership, enhancing operational efficiencies, and contributing to sustainable profitable growth. She also serves as Chapter President

of Seacoast Human Resources Association.

Tenggren added, “I am looking forward to helping shape our culture and the future of our work as we focus on our mission and strategy to enrich and nourish the lives of others. I am inspired by our talent and how

Northeast Credit Union is a member-owned and notfor-profit organization whose mission is to enrich and nourish the lives of others by helping the local community thrive through elimination of food insecurity, access to affordable housing, and support of education. From its humble beginnings at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in 1936, Northeast has grown to more than $2 billion in assets, over 142,000 members and branches throughout New Hampshire and Maine. For more information, visit www.necu.org or call 1-888-436-1847.

NCU Congratulates Gina Jones and Traci Tenggren

News ~ Health & Fitness

Caregiver Cafés Return to In-Person Waypoint Receives $25K Grant

SEACOASTCornerstone VNA is pleased to announce that their monthly Caregiver Cafés have returned to meeting in-person once again. The cafés are a collaborative effort between Cornerstone VNA and four local libraries in Farmington, Newington, Dover, and Strafford. Family caregivers and their loved ones are invited to attend for an hour of support, conversation, and education.

In the Spring of 2020, the Caregiver Cafés transitioned to a virtual format, keeping local family caregivers connected and supported throughout the pandemic. The monthly virtual get-together provided

a sense of camaraderie, particularly during a time of tremendous isolation to an already extremely isolated sector of the community. In the words of a virtual caregiver attendee, “I always feel less alone after one of our café sessions.”

Janice Howard, Cornerstone VNA Life Care-Private Duty Director stated, “It is so important for caregivers to meet socially to share and validate their experience in their journey caring for a loved one or a friend. We are so happy to announce a return to face-to-face Caregiver Cafés to better support the caregivers of our communities.”

The Goodwin Library in Farmington was the first Care-

giver Café that launched in 2017 and now meets the third Friday of each month. The Langdon Library in Newington was the second Caregiver Café location established prior to COVID-19, and has now resumed meeting in-person on the third Thursday of each month. The newest additions to the Caregiver Cafés are the Dover Public Library in Dover, which will meet each third Wednesday of the month – and Hill Library in Strafford, which will meets on the second Wednesday of each month.

Complete details and any changes due to holidays or weather can be found at www. cornerstonevna.org/calendar or call 800-691-1133.

WDH Named “High Performing” by US News & World Report

DOVERWentworth-Douglass Hospital (WDH) has been named “High Performing” in five Procedures & Conditions, according to US News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best Hospitals rankings released recently. This is the highest award a hospital can earn in the publisher’s Procedures & Conditions ratings. The annual ratings are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or elective procedures.

WDH earned high performing ratings in abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, chronic obstructive pulmonary

disease (COPD), heart attack, heart failure, and hip fracture.

The ratings found the hospital offered care that was significantly better than the national average, as measured by factors such as patient outcomes.

“Rankings like these are a great affirmation of the work our dedicated teams accomplish every day, making WentworthDouglass the premier destination for healthcare on the Seacoast,” said Jeff Hughes, president and CEO of WDH. “These rankings noted that Wentworth-Douglass offered strong patient experience, advanced techniques, high percentages of survival, and discharges directly to home – despite the seriousness of many of these conditions,” he added.

For the 2022-2023 Best Hospitals rankings and ratings, US News evaluated more than 4,500 hospitals across 15 specialties and 20 procedures and conditions. Fewer than half of all hospitals received any high performing rating, and only four earned this rating in all procedures and conditions. State and metro area rankings reflect the highest performing hospitals in the area across multiple areas of care. The methodology is based entirely on objective measures of quality such as survival rates, patient experience, and how successfully each hospital helps patients get back home. For more information, visit https://health. usnews.com/best-hospitals/ rankings.

Yoga in Action Becomes Mental Health Friendly Workplace

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The Dover Mental Health Alliance (DMHA), a grass roots, community-driven coalition, is building mental health friendly workplaces one “Place” at a time in Strafford County and beyond. Yoga in Action was recently designated as a safe, judgement-free “Place” by DMHA. Yoga in Action now has dual designations: a DMHA Mental Health Friendly Work “Place” and a Recovery Friendly Workplace, a complementary initiative focusing on support for those in recovery from substance use disorder in the workplace.

Yoga in Action is a service organization which helps people navigate life’s challeng-

es by providing accessible yoga programs to individuals in a wide variety of settings and circumstances. Yoga is a low cost, high impact modality that can support the mental and physical health of anyone.

Board members and staff received Mental Health First Aid training which teaches people how to recognize and re-

spond to someone who may be in emotional distress. The group also received ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experience) training, which dives deep into the neurological, psychological and physiological impact of trauma and how it relates to our biggest health and social problems such as substance use, housing insecurity and mental health.

DOVER & ROCHESTERWentworth-Douglass Hospital (WDH) has awarded a $25,000 community benefit grant to Waypoint to assist in the creation of a drop-in center in Rochester, which will allow the nonprofit organization to reach more homeless youth in the seacoast region.

Homelessness is a growing problem in the communities that WDH serves and can have a wide range of negative health outcomes.

“We believe these important programs will have a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of vulnerable youth and young adults experiencing homelessness within our community, and that the development of these services are well aligned with needs identified in our most recent Community Health Needs Assessment,” said Michelle Hanson, RN, director of strategic planning and community benefits at WDH.

Waypoint seeks to limit the amount of time that youth remain homeless by providing intervention and prevention. The Rochester drop-in center will

“We know that the yoga movements, breathing, and mindfulness exercises that we practice ourselves and share with our clients, support overall mental health. The education provided to our Yoga in Action team during this process was very valuable and we are proud to have received the official designation as a Mental Health Friendly Work Place,” said Rochelle Jewell, founder and executive director of Yoga in Action.

The DMHA vision is to create a culture that understands, embraces and addresses the complexities of mental health. For more information, visit www.communitypartnersnh.org, www.dovermentalhealthalliance.org, www.recoveryfriendlyworkplace.com, and www.yogainaction.org.

provide a safe, judgment-free place for youth to access basic needs while building trusting relationships with staff. Youth at the center will have access to food, clothing, technology, educational resources, and connections to multiple supportive services.

“With increasing homelessness among youth in our community, more services are needed. We are so thankful to Wentworth-Douglass for joining us in this effort to open a new drop-in center in Rochester that will mean more youth are able to access the support they need to find a path out of homelessness,” said Mandy Lancaster, senior program manager of youth services at Waypoint.

The Rochester drop-in center is located at 3 Wallace Street, and Waypoint expects an average of 125 youth to access the center each year.

In addition to the center, Waypoint provides street-based outreach in Rochester, Dover, Portsmouth, Exeter, and Hampton – the five most populated communities in the service area and which are known to have larger numbers of youth experiencing homelessness. In the remaining greater seacoast area, Waypoint provide services via a street outreach van, in areas youth are known to congregate, such as train stations and parks, allowing for outreach in the less-populated communities.

The funds donated are approved by the WentworthDouglass Community Benefit Funding Disbursement Committee and are not raised through any public or private donations. For more information, visit www.wdhospital. org.

Photo above, left to right: Mandy Lancaster, senior program manager of youth services at Waypoint, and Michelle Hanson, director of strategic planning and community benefits at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.

PORTSMOUTH -

Offering programs in the community as well as serving as an actual home for at-risk youth in crisis, the Chase Home recently received a $2,500 grant from Northeast Delta Dental. The grant will support the home’s food program which is led by kitchen manager Andre Owens (pictured).

“Andre is wonderful –he makes everything from scratch,” said Meme Wheeler, executive director at the home. “This grant will help us continue to prepare and serve nourishing meals for our kids. A good meal can brighten a kid’s day.”

According to Lisa Rousseau, community relations specialist at Northeast Delta Dental, the food program directly reflects a mission they pursue daily. “We believe everyone deserves a healthy smile,” she said. “Nutritional meals through this program provide their young residents with home-cooked meals and lessons on proper nutrition, which leads to good oral health

and overall wellness.”

In the summer, Chase Home also grows a garden, which Wheeler noted serves a deeper purpose than enhancing nutrition: “Kids, families, and staff work together on it, so there is a therapeutic component to it.”.

This year’s garden produced hundreds of vegetables, ranging from cucumbers and summer squash to cabbage, peppers, and more.

“A healthy mind starts with a healthy body,” added Wheeler.

“We appreciate Northeast Delta Dental and their support of this part of our mission.”

Learn more at www.chasehome.org.

Natural Health Expert Opens Portsmouth Practice

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People looking for new ways to improve their health may find the answers at a new Portsmouth practice focusing on holistic wellness through nutrition counseling. Dr. Michael Blackman has opened Complementary Applied Nutrition at 27 Albany Street, Portsmouth. The practice focuses on creating customized diet and supplement programs designed to target individual patient needs. Dr. Blackman sees patients of all ages and backgrounds, with many patients seeking help for fatigue, weight gain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, insomnia, hormone issues, immune support, skin conditions, digestive problems, and other concerns.

Dr. Blackman was previously based in Dover, where he had a thriving chiropractic practice for more than 20 years. During his time there, he also provided nutrition counseling. After seeing the benefits to his patients, he decided to specialize in the functional medicine aspect, and moved to Portsmouth where he could more easily see clients from Maine,

New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

“Complementary Applied Nutrition offers natural health solutions that are sciencebased,” said Dr. Blackman. “We begin with a detailed personal consultation, a physical exam, and several diagnostic tests. After getting the information we need and talking with patients about their concerns and goals, we create a customized plan. Over the next several weeks and months, we meet regularly with patients to assess their progress and personalize their program needs.”

maintain good health or may be facing digestive or energy issues. Young people have also sought consultations as many are looking to find the best way to retain good health as they age.

DOVERWentworth-Douglass Hospital (WDH) has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Hospital Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

WDH underwent a rigorous, unannounced, onsite review this June. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with Hospital Program standards spanning several areas, including environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership, medication management, and rights and responsibilities of the individual. The accreditation is valid for 36 months.

“This accreditation is crucial in ensuring high standards of quality, safety, and compassionate care,” said Jeff Hughes, president and CEO of WDH. “As a healthcare organization, we are proud of this

affirmation of what we do each and every day.”

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help health care organizations measure, assess, and improve performance. The surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

Hughes said that surveyors had no findings in their high risk category. In addition, there were no concerns deemed widespread, which the surveyor called “remarkable.”

“The surveyors were also very complimentary of our staff’s engagement with them and our eagerness to learn. A surveyor noted it was evident to their team that WDH’s compassion has a significant, positive impact on patient care and experience,” Hughes said. Surveyors were also impressed with the beauty and cleanliness of hospital facilities, Hughes added.

“As a private accreditor, the Joint Commission surveys health care organizations to

protect the public by identifying deficiencies in care and working with those organizations to correct them as quickly and sustainably as possible,” said Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer of Accreditation and Certification Operations, and chief nursing executive of the Joint Commission. “We commend Wentworth-Douglass for its continuous quality improvement efforts in patient safety and quality of care.”

For more information, visit www.jointcommission.org and www.wdhospital.org.

As part of his diagnostics, Dr. Blackman offers Nutrition Response Testing, which is a non-invasive system of analyzing the body in order to determine the underlying causes of ill health. When these are corrected through safe, natural, nutritional means, the body can repair itself and more optimal health can be maintained.

Dr. Blackman noted that among his most frequent patients are working women with children who are plagued by fatigue and may or may not be battling hormone problems. He explained that adjustments in diet can make a big difference in energy levels. He also sees many seniors who are looking to

Since the practice opened, clients have been streaming in, causing Dr. Blackman to already double his staff. “I think this type of practice is filling a need for many people who have been unable to get answers through other forms of treatment,” he said. “They also like the fact that we are with them for however long it takes to get results. We don’t just give you a pill and send you home; we begin a relationship with you, have regular assessments, and help you achieve a healthier life.”

Dr. Blackman is passionate about his field and excited to help more people discover how nutritional assessment can improve health. “I have been in this specialty for a long time and have amassed a huge body of knowledge,” he said. “I’m eager to share this with those in need, as I know it can be the answer to many health issues.”

For more information, call 603-703-3643 or visit www.canutritionnh.com.

(877) 646-8448

Dover Public Library

Holiday Closures

Closed December 24-26, 31 for the holidays.

Shake Your Rattle & Roll, Baby

In person, Friday, December 9 and 16 at 10 a.m. Join us for a Rockin’ and Rollin’ good time! We will dance to silly songs, sing rhymes, count to 5 with puppets and rock out with drums and instruments.

Featuring a different genre or musical artist each week. Designed for babies and toddlers, age 2.

Sensory Story Time

In person, Friday, December 9 and 16 at 10 a.m. Sensory story time is for children, ages 3-6, with autism, sensory challenges, developmental delays, and their caregivers. This fun, interactive program will engage the senses through books, fl annel boards, puppets, songs, rhymes and movements as well as tactile and sensory activities. Sign up is needed.

Crafternoon

On Thursday, December 15 at

3:30 p.m., kids in grades 1 and up are invited to make and take a snowman ornament.

LEGO Club

Join us on Saturday, December 17 at 2 p.m. in the Lecture Hall for LEGO Club! Kids ages 5 and up can work on a specific “challengeof-the-day” or build their own creations.

STEM Story Time

On Monday, December 12, 1010:45 a.m. and 11-11:45 a.m. children ages 3-5 are invited to join for STEM story time. Each week we will focus on a different STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) topic using books, songs, and activities to support the theme. Registration is required.

Fresh Air Story Time

On Monday, December 12, 4-4:45 p.m. kids in grades K-3 are invited to join on the library lawn as we explore the outdoors through books and activities. Rain, snow, sunshine, or cold, story time is on!

Registration is required.

Mother Goose on the Loose

On Tuesday, December 13 at 10 a.m., babies through 2 year-olds and their parent/caregiver are invited to this 30 minute program with nursery rhymes, songs, puppets, other props, and short stories.

Family Story Time

On Wednesday, December 14 at

10 a.m., children of all ages with caregivers are invited to attend this program which includes stories, fingerplays, songs, and puppets.

Arts & Crafts Story Time

On Thursday, December 15 at 10 a.m., children ages 3-6 are invited to explore arts and crafts. Books, songs, rhymes, and an art activity will all be part of the fun. Registration is required.

All Levels Yoga with Bridget Harton

In person, Saturday, December 10 at 9:30 a.m. A class designed to give beginners a safe, welcoming space to try yoga and for experienced individuals to find a new place to continue their growth. Plan to bring your own mat and any props of preference.

Intermediate Excel Class

Join us for Intermediate Excel with Peggy on Wednesday, December 14 at 6:30 p.m. This class will cover tables, charts and functions. The class size is limited to eight people and will take place in the technology corner at the library.

Book Groups

The Afternoon/Evening Book Group will be meeting in person and virtually on Monday, December 19 at 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to discuss “The Little Paris Bookshop: by Nina George. The Cookbook Club will be holding an in-person cookie swap on Monday, December 12 at 6:30 p.m. and using “The Essential Cookie Companion” by King Arthur Baking Company for our cookie recipes. A Matter of Fact, a non-fiction book group, will meet in person on Wednesday, December 14 at 10 a.m. in the lecture hall to discuss “Moonwalking with Einstein” by Joshua Foer.

Cocheco River Writers

Join a community of local writers with Cocheco River Writers! This group meets Thursday, December 22 at 6:30 p.m. and welcomes all skill levels. Discuss ideas, get tips, and share your work with others in a low-key, inviting atmosphere. Whether you want to write creatively for fun or for publication, this group is a great way to hone your craft!

Knitting Group

The Knitting Group is meeting Wednesday, December 21, 9:3011:30 a.m. in the library’s Makerspace. All levels are welcome.

Caregiver Cafe

On Wednesday, December 21 at 10:30 a.m., join Cornerstone VNA as we introduce our newest monthly Caregiver Café to support Dover-area family caregivers. Come for a morning of support, education, and conversation. No registration is required.

Family Game Night

On Wednesday, December 21, 6-8 p.m., join us to play a fun selection of card and board games, and meet other board game enthusiasts in the community. You’re also welcome to bring your own games. All ages.

Teens in grades 7-12 are invited to join our Teen Advisory Board meeting on Wednesday, December 14 at 6 p.m. Help us shape the library’s teen services and programs while hanging out and eating snacks. FMI: Emily at e.ainaire@dover.nh.gov.

Teen Movie:

Nightmare Before Christmas

On Monday, December 19 at 6 p.m., teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join a showing of Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (rated PG). Themed snacks and drinks will be provided.

Origami Star Jars

Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to make origami star jars on Wednesday, December 28 at 2 p.m. You can use the origami stars to keep a to-be-read list for the new year, or just as a decoration. All supplies will be provided.

Artist of the Month: JoAnn Rohde

Dungeons

& Dragons: 18 and Older Group

Drop in and play Dungeons & Dragons with Game Masters Brandon and Dave! The 18 and older groups are for new and veteran role-playing gamers to join in adventure, strategy, and imagination. The library has two groups that will meet every other Monday night and every Tuesday night, though you do not need to have attended previous sessions to enjoy your first game. No experience or materials are required and all skill levels are welcome. This month’s sessions will be indoors in the Trustees Room, 6-8 PM on December 12, 13, 20, 27.

Teen Programs

Throughout the month of December, we will be displaying the artwork of JoAnn Rohde in the library’s Reference Room. Rohde states that “Creating art has always been a goal beyond my much appreciated work in the kitchen, but something more permanent and intimate has been a longtime desire. Painting, these past few years, has opened up a whole new world view and I’ve become lost in color and design... in places that continually change. I’ve enjoyed contemplating the faces and features of those I paint – our subtle differences.”

Call for Artists

Interested in showing your work at the library? It’s free! The library hosts a different artist every other month. FMI: Susan at s.dunker@ dover.nh.gov or 603-516-6050.

For More Information

Call the library at 603-516-6050 or visit http://library.dover.nh.gov.

Turn Down That Thermostat

STATEWIDEAs we inch closer to winter, many of us have home heating costs on our mind: How much is it going to increase? And what can I do about it? Well, while we can’t individually control energy and fuel prices, there are things we can do to reduce energy usage related to heating our homes. In fact, there’s one simple thing you can build into your routine that will help: turn down your thermostat while sleeping or not at home.

There has long been debate about whether turning your thermostat down low actually

saves money and energy. You may have heard the claim that the energy a furnace or boiler expends starting and stopping is more than if the device maintains a steady temperature. However, that conventional wisdom actually doesn’t bear out: The amount that you can save by turning the thermostat down during the times that you’re not benefitting from the heat vastly outweighs that startup energy consumption. In fact, the opposite can be true. When recovering from a setback, the burner

People and Business Profiles

New Leadership at the American Independence Museum

EXETER -

The American Independence Museum has announced the appointment of Jennifer Carr to the position of executive director.

After receiving both her BA and MA in history from Southern New Hampshire University, Carr first joined the American Independence Museum as a volunteer. Shortly thereafter, in March 2020, she began working for the museum as the collections manager and curator.

During her time as curator, she has supported the museum’s mission to share the diverse stories of New Hampshire’s revolutionary past. One example is her work through the museum’s History Matters videos, which highlight individuals such as Wentworth Cheswell, considered the first black American elected to

public office. She has updated exhibit information panels to improve accessibility for the seeing impaired and led the migration of museum collections information to an online platform that, when complete, can be remotely accessed by external researchers.

In may 2022, Carr took on the role of acting executive director. Regarding the choice

to appoint Carr to the role of executive director, Museum Board President Ozzie Ayescue said, “She has worked to preserve the museum’s valuable collection and facilities and strong leadership delving into the museum’s collections to find new stories and expose new points of view. She is truly dedicated to creating a more inclusive museum as part of our overall mission to inspire civic engagement… She is serious and fun to work with. This is a natural step up for Jen.”

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the American Independence Museum is committed to developing inclusive and accessible on-site and digital public and education programs for more than 5,000 visitors annually. To learn more, visit independencemuseum.org.

New Driveway Welcomes Youth Home

PORTSMOUTH -

In May, The Chase Home launched ‘Pave the Way Forward’ to raise funds to repave its rapidly deteriorating driveway, a campaign that has met with success.

“We are thrilled to have a new driveway,” noted Meme Wheeler, executive director of the Chase Home. “This is a proj-

ect that was long overdue.”

Prior to the fundraising campaign, Director of Operation Craig Dennis said the Chase Home spent thousands annually to repair potholes and affect temporary repairs. “It wasn’t sustainable,” he explained.

Major campaign sponsors from the community included LeMay Family Goodworks with

additional support from Eastern Bank Foundation. In total, more than 15 individual organizations and private donors contributed to the campaign.

“While there were safety concerns regarding our old driveway, which was apparently decades old in some places, there was an aesthetic component too,” said Wheeler. “When

spends more time running in the “optimal combustion efficiency zone,” delivering more energy to your home with fewer emissions.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% a year on heating by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day from its normal setting. During winter, the lower the temperature inside your home, the slower the heat loss, so if you can keep the temperature lower for long periods of time – like when you are sleeping or at work – you will save more energy and reduce your heating bill. You can easily save energy in the winter by setting the thermostat to around 68°F while you’re awake and setting it lower while you’re asleep or away from home.

If you have a programmable thermostat or the means to get one, this type of routine savings can be even easier. You

can set it as low as is comfortable in the winter and then lower the setpoint when you’re sleeping or away from home. Some smart thermostats even have occupancy sensors and will set back automatically when the home is empty.

Turning down your thermostat is just one way to save on energy and heating costs in your home. Here are some others: Reverse your ceiling fans to bring that warmer air circulating around your home down; replace your furnace’s filter regularly to save electricity; seal up any leaks or holes which can save an average household $166 annually. Prioritize the ABCs –start in the attic, then basement, then the c enter of your home; ensure that any heat sources can deliver heat without restriction. Furniture can block forced air vents and baseboard heat or radiators; put some area rugs in your rooms which can improve

comfort without turning up the thermostat; keep draperies and shades on south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home a nd closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

Overall, reducing your heat usage is a great way to save on costly bills and to be more ecofriendly. In areas like New England, where the winter months are cold, heating accounts for 30-50% of a household’s annual energy costs. Additionally, home heating and cooling is responsible for nearly 441 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. So don’t be afraid to see how low you can go on your thermostat dial!

This was provided by GREENWorks, a publication of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services in Concord. For more information, call 603-271-3710 or visit www.des.nh.gov.

Hampton UMC Welcomes New Music & Choir Director

HAMPTONHampton United Methodist Church (HUMC), located at 525 Lafayette Road, Hampton, recently announced their new music and choir director Hunter Harville-Moxley.

Moxley grew up in Las Vegas, went to college in New York, and currently lives in Medford, MA. He has an associate’s degree in pipe organ performance, a bachelor’s in music composition, and is currently working on a master’s in conducting at Tufts University. Moxley was most recently the music director at a Presbyterian church in upstate New York. He also served as an accompanist for a gospel choir, where he learned to play piano by ear and taught piano and vocal lessons to children.

Pastor Sue is excited to welcome Moxley to the team. “We look forward to our choir mem-

our kids walk ‘home’ to Chase Home, their path will literally be nicely paved… It feels more welcoming.”

Founded in 1877, the Chase Home provides at-risk youth across the state with prevention, early intervention, residential, and community-based services. Some youth live at The Chase Home while others are served in the community. To learn more, visit www.chasehome.org.

bers returning, and hope that others will consider joining the choir. Music is such an important part of the worship service, and with three talented individuals on our music team, we are fortunate indeed!”

All are all welcome to worship at the church at 10 a.m. every Sunday. As is the tradition in the United Methodist church, holy communion is held on the first Sunday of each month. HUMC also offers a youth Sunday School program and nursery care. The church’s outreach and mission work includes providing space for Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon meetings, Meals on Wheels, and a food pantry which is open every Wednesday. HUMC is also an active partner with Seacoast Family Promise, a non-profit agency that helps guide homeless families toward stabile housing. For more information, go to www. hamptonnhumc.org or call 603926-2702.

Tease Salon Grand Opening

SOMERSWORTH -

The Falls Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Tease Salon during their grand opening party. Tease was originally located on High Street, but they have since moved to a new location at 8 Government Way, Somersworth.

Tease Hair Studio is a small, family-owned, hair salon who pride themselves on welcoming

all – no matter your age, sexuality, gender, or nationality. Owner Mandy Mazeu stated, “We do hair, we do care!”

To celebrate the momentous occasion, Tease held a party featuring costumes and a drag show. Joining Tease at the event were chamber representatives and members of the community. Learn more at www.teasenh. com.

Dover Update

Next Public Hearing on Draft Electric Aggregation Plan

The City of Dover and Dover Energy Commission (DEC) have been working towards providing all ratepayers the best possible rates with expanded choices that will include renewable energy. The DEC has approved a draft plan and is now soliciting public input during the second of two public hearings. As a guide to assist the public, DEC and the city’s resilience manager Jackson Kaspari have prepared a video that provides an overview at https:// bit.ly/3BhxDFW. Other information, such as the 75-page draft plan, can be found at https://bit. ly/3EHUPOE. Citizen input will be greatly appreciated at the hearing on Wednesday, December 14, at 6:30 p.m. in room 305 of the McConnell Center, 61 Locust St., Dover.

Somersworth Update

Toys for Tots Collection

Godfrey Dentistry, 8 Clark Way Suite A, Somersworth, is a donation collection site for the Toys for Tots campaign sponsored by the US Marine Corps from now until December 13.

Friday, December 9

Mixer in Gingerbread Land 8:30-9:30 a.m. Gather in the land of gingerbread for the Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce’s Morning Mixer at the Portsmouth Historical Society, 10 Middle St., Portsmouth, which is hosting its Gingerbread House Exhibition through Decem -

ber 22 in its Academy Galleries. Register at www.portsmouthchamber.org.

Saturday, December 10

Ugly Sweater Holiday Party

The Rockingham Groove Ugly Sweater Holiday Party at the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge, 45 Chestnut St., Dover, benefits the Dover Mental Health Alliance and features musical guests, the Rockingham Groove and the Meter Maids. Tickets are $25. Register at www.dovernh.org.

Holiday Crystal Show

11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Join Earth Harmony Wellness, 66 Third St., Dover, and geologist and miner Jerry Marchand, to see their display of crystals and minerals in their raw and natural forms.

Thursday, December 15

Catapult Holiday Party

6-8 p.m. Join Catapult Seacoast for some cheerful networking at the Elk’s Lodge, 500 Jones Ave., Portsmouth. This is a a free event with access to a cash bar and appetizers. Wear your favorite ugly holiday sweater! Register at www. dovernh.org.

Last Day of Lights Shine

Bright Tour

Have fun driving around with your family, voting, enjoying the lights, through December 15, and know your $20 will help heat a home for a family in need. Also, receive a professional family holiday photo! Register at www.dovernh.org.

Business After Hours with Warm Hearts & Cold Beer

5-7 p.m. Join the Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce’s December Business After Hours at the Portsmouth Brewery, 56 Market St., Portsmouth, which will be closed to the public but for the chamber. The event is not only a celebration of the season, but also in support of Cross Roads House, which helps fight against homelessness.

Friday, December 16 & Saturday, December 17

Winter Faire Encore 8-10 a.m. at the First Church Congregational, 63 South Main St., Rochester. Featuring handcrafts, more than 100 themed gift baskets, two rooms filled with recycled Christmas items, buttons-by-thescoop, raffles, baked goods, and free hot-mulled cider. FMI: 603332-1121 or www.first-ucc.net.

Sunday, December 18

HUMC Sugar Plum Cookie Walk

The Hampton United Methodist Church (HUMC), 525 Lafayette Road, Hampton, will hold a Sugar Plum Cookie Walk on, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Visitors will find dozens of holiday cookies, squares, and candy, all displayed on beautiful, seasonally-decorated tables. Cookies are $6 per lb. while candies are $10 per lb. FMI: www.hamptonnhumc. org or 603-926-2702.

Trex Bench Raffle Drawing

The Lions Club of Dover, Rollinsford, and South Berwick, are pleased to announce their holiday raffle of a Trex bench! This bench is made from plastics that were collected and recycled locally rather than ending up in landfills.

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. . ARTSPACE from page 5

Piebald

On Wednesday, December 28 at 8 p.m., come sing your American Heart out with Piebald! A staple of the posthardcore/indie/emo scene since 1994, Piebald continues to bring fun and energy to stages across America. These four Boston fellas sure to rock your socks off!

Dorks in the Dungeons

On Thursday, December 29 at 8 p.m., the Dorks’ will share

Tickets, $5 each or five for $20, may be purchased through your local Lions volunteer (lionsdrsb@ gmail.com) or Venmo.

Tuesday, December 20

Dover Chamber of Commerce Business Open House 5-7 p.m. at the Art Center, 1 Washington St., Dover. Meet chamber members and celebrate the Art Center’s 5th anniversary. Light refreshments will be provided. Register at www.dovernh.org.

Friday, December 23

Last Day for Holiday Artisan Faire Stop by the Thom Hindle Gallery at the Woodman Museum, 15 Summer St., Dover, for a wide range of local, handmade goods including maple syrup, soaps, candles, jewelry, woodworks, and more through December 23.

their December fantasy improv show. Join the Lumineerz as they travel north in search of the last infinity stone. Will they find it in time to save Wispmas?

Harsh Armadillo NYE

On Saturday, December 31, at 9 p.m., check out this New Year’s Eve party with Harsh Armadillo. Bring a date, go stag, wear a Canadian tuxedo, and go home in a dress. Whatever makes you happy. Just dress loud and have fun with it. A prom king/ queen will be crowned. In addition to the usual high-octane Promadillo entree of funk, hip-hop, and modern jazz, Harsh will be serving brand-new arrangements featuring some of their favorite players, vocalists, and enmcees from throughout the Northeast, including Paranom, Sig Shalom, Incredible Chuck, and Nihco Gallo.

Call for Artists

Seeking artists for “Big Ink”! Learn how to make a woodblock print of epic proportions in this blended learning workshop. Carve your design at home following Big Ink’s online course. Then meet the Big Ink team and print your finished carving on the Big Tuna, Big Ink’s giant mobile printing press. No prior printmaking experience is necessary. Deadline to register is June 19.