News & Notes 21/02/04

Covid-19 updateAs of January 25As of February 1
Total cases statewide62,76866,058
Total current infections statewide5,6274,662
Total deaths statewide9901,059
New cases4,904 (Jan. 19 to Jan. 25)3,290 (Jan. 26 to Feb. 1)
Current infections: Hillsborough County1,9941,587
Current infections: Merrimack County420389
Current infections: Rockingham County1,2781,096
Information from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services

Covid-19 news

On Jan. 26, the first vaccine doses to Granite Staters in Phase 1B of the state’s distribution plan began. “New Hampshire’s rollout of Phase 1B has been very successful with over 300,000 individuals registering to receive their vaccine in just one week,” Gov. Chris Sununu said in a Jan. 29 press release. According to that release, the state sent out emails to people in Phase 1B who have received their first dose of the vaccine but had not yet scheduled a second dose, or scheduled an appointment that is several weeks away. “We are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to speeding up the process, including opening up additional appointments for individuals to receive their second dose,” Sununu said in the release.

As of Feb. 2, additional second dose appointments were made available at vams.cdc.gov. “In order to accommodate the entire statewide vaccination campaign, we’ve added additional locations in partnership with our hospitals,” Dr. Beth Daly, Chief of the Bureau of Infectious Disease Control of the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services, said during a Jan. 26 press conference, “so we currently have 22 sites that are open to the public.” During the same press conference, state epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said that, while the test-positivity rates and hospitalization numbers due to Covid-19 continue to be on the decline over the last several weeks, the overall level of community transmission remains very high statewide. The following day, Jan. 27, New Hampshire surpassed 1,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic last March, according to the daily public health update.

On Jan. 29, Sununu and the governors of each of the five other New England states and New Jersey issued a joint statement extending the suspension of all interstate youth hockey competitions for public and private schools through at least March 31. A regional suspension had previously been in place through Dec. 31 before it was then extended to Jan. 31. The prohibition does not impact interstate collegiate, professional or national hockey team activities, according to the statement.

Details on Sununu’s emergency orders, executive orders and other announcements can be found at governor.nh.gov.

Support local

The state has launched a marketing campaign called “Support Local: Go the Extra Mile” to help boost the local businesses as they struggle through the economic fallout of the pandemic, according to a press release. Economic development and tourism officials will run the campaign through March via ads on billboards, television spots and social media. The ads encourage residents to eat, shop and stay local, and there’s a new website with listings of New Hampshire businesses: supportlocal603.com. “While the resiliency, resourcefulness, and fierce determination of our industry has been on full display during these challenging times, we need the support of everyone in the state right now,” Mike Somers, president and CEO of the New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association, said in the release.

Housing assistance

On Jan. 26, the City of Manchester launched the Manchester Emergency Housing Assistance Program, which will allow residents with low or moderate incomes who have lost income due to the pandemic to receive grants of up to $4,500 to cover rent, mortgage payments or utilities, according to a press release. “Preventing and ending homelessness starts with making sure that those who are struggling to make ends meet remain housed,” Mayor Joyce Craig said in the release. Eligible applicants will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis. According to the release, the program is being funded with a Community Development Block Grant and federal funds provided to the city through the CARES Act.

Interim supers

The Nashua Board of Education voted last week to hire Garth McKinney as Superintendent of Schools and Mario Andrade as Assistant Superintendent for Elementary, according to a press release. They are both serving in an interim capacity until June 30. McKinney is taking the place of Jahmal Mosley, who has taken a job as a superintendent in Massachusetts; he will continue in an advisory capacity to the Office of Superintendent until the end of the school year. McKinney is the current Assistant Superintendent for Elementary for the Nashua School District, and Andrade started the school year as Principal of Elm Street Middle School in an interim capacity, according to the release.

The Friends of Norris Cotton Cancer Center in Lebanon announced last week that registration is now open for the 40th annual Prouty, a fundraising event that combines cycling, walking, rowing, golfing and more. According to a press release, this year’s event will be virtual, with potential in-person options depending on safety and health guidelines. In honor of its 40th year, the Prouty will take place over the course of 40 days — June 1 through July 10 — and virtual participants can do whatever activity they want anywhere at any time. Visit theprouty.org.

The Christa McAuliffe Commemorative Coin became available for pre-order on Jan. 28, the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy, at catalog.usmint.gov. According to a press release, the coin honors Christa McAuliffe, the Concord teacher who died aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986, and proceeds will promote STEM education.

The SEE Science Center in Manchester is hosting its adult science discussion series, Science on Tap, virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 9. The informal discussion this month is Covid-19: Lessons Learned. According to a press release, local science and health care professionals will talk about the virus and the vaccines, and how the response to this virus will impact the medical field in the future. Admission is free, but sign-up is required at see-sciencecenter.org.

NH gets vaccinated

WMUR reported that on Jan. 22, nearly 150,000 people signed up within the first 10 hours of Phase 1b opening for a Covid-19 vaccine. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, by Jan. 27 this number had increased to 200,000 with another 50,000 signed up by their health care provider. This phase includes anybody 65+ years of age, as well as those with certain health conditions, and others who qualify because of where they work. All totaled, there are about 300,000 in this group. That is an impressive response from our New Hampshire residents, and it gives me hope that the end is on the horizon for a pandemic that has taken so much.
While we’re off to an ambitious start, I continue to hear concern and hesitation about taking the vaccine. Given how quickly both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines received emergency authorization, it is understandable. According to PBS NewsHour, the methodology that both of these vaccines utilize, however, messenger RNA (mRNA), is not new. mRNA has been studied for 50 to 60 years, not only for vaccines but also for cancer treatment. Scientists and researchers have been studying how to utilize mRNA with RSV, MERS and SARS viruses since the early 2000s. Both Moderna and Pfizer built on science that had been collected for many years, thus enabling Moderna to design its vaccine in just two days. After development, both vaccines were required to go through the normal three phases of trials encompassing nearly 70,000 people in the Phase 3 trials. Both companies reported efficacy of approximately 95 percent.
This vaccine is not mandatory. People are free to choose whether or not to receive the vaccine based on their personal circumstances and personal health situation. The decision should be made after fully understanding the facts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers factual information on the vaccines (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html), and the State of New Hampshire’s Covid-19 website (nh.gov/covid19/) is very informative.
We must achieve herd immunity for the pandemic to end. The World Health Organization states that herd immunity should be achieved through vaccination rather than through exposure to the pathogen that causes the disease. To achieve herd immunity, most experts agree between 75 to 80 percent of the population needs to be vaccinated. Will New Hampshire be first in the nation again and lead the country out of this pandemic? It seems as though we are well on our way.

Romantic eats

Special dinners, desserts and more for Valentine’s Day

From special dine-in menus to takeout dinners and desserts, local restaurants, bakeries and candymakers have you covered this Valentine’s Day. For those that require reservations, be sure to call or check online on availability, as seatings fill up fast. Do you know of a special Valentine’s Day dinner or menu in New Hampshire not on this list? Let us know at food@hippopress.com. 

Angela’s Pasta & Cheese Shop (815 Chestnut St., Manchester, 625-9544, angelaspastaandcheese.com) is taking orders for specialty Valentine’s Day dinners for two, which feature your choice of either sweet pea and pancetta bisque or local greens and baby arugula salad; an entree (lamb tenderloins, macadamia-crusted Chilean sea bass or chicken and heirloom tomato saute); sides (roasted beefsteak tomatoes and wild mushroom risotto); and assorted mini petit fours and mignon mini pastries for dessert. The cost is $74.95 and includes wine ($69.95 without wine). Order by Feb. 8. Pickups are on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ashley’s Eats & Sweets (ashleys.eats.and.sweets@gmail.com, find them on Facebook) is taking orders for a variety of specialty items for Valentine’s Day, like milk, dark or white chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry white chocolate macarons, cocoa bombs, heart-shaped iced sugar cookies and more. Order by Feb. 6. Orders will be ready for pickup or delivery on Saturday, Feb. 13.

Atkinson Resort & Country Club (85 Country Club Drive, Atkinson, 362-8700, atkinsonresort.com) will serve a special multi-course dinner for Valentine’s Day on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Courses include brie en croute with orange preserves, antipasto insalata, petite filet mignon with demi-glace and chicken pomodoro and chocolate-dipped strawberries, macaroons and cheesecake lollipops. The cost is $75 per person. A cash bar will also be available.

Averill House Vineyard (21 Averill Road, Brookline, 244-3165, averillhousevineyard.com) will serve a special five-course dinner and wine and chocolate pairing all Valentine’s Day weekend, with seatings on Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., and on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The cost is $89 per person.

The Bakeshop on Kelley Street (171 Kelley St., Manchester, 624-3500, thebakeshoponkelleystreet.com) is taking orders for several treats for Valentine’s Day, like chocolate-dipped strawberries, crispy cream puffs, strawberry white chocolate or chocolate mousse gateaux, heart-shaped cream tarts, assorted cupcakes and chocolate molten lava cake.

Bearded Baking Co. (819 Union St., Manchester, 647-7150, beardedbaking.com) is taking orders for “date night dessert boxes” for Valentine’s Day for $50 each, featuring assorted treats like cupcakes, cocoa bombs, chocolate-covered strawberries, cookies, brownies, cakesicles and chocolate-covered pretzels. Smaller-sized boxes of cupcakes ($10) and chocolate-covered strawberries ($10) are also available. Order by Feb. 6.

Bedford Village Inn (2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford, 472-2001, bedfordvillageinn.com) will serve a special four-course prix fixe menu for Valentine’s Day on Sunday, Feb. 14, with seating times from 5 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $89 per person ($300 for each additional couple) and reservations are required. This year, the Bedford Village Inn is also offering a special “Valentine’s Day Takeaway” package that you can enjoy at home, featuring a three-course dinner for two and select wines, complete with cooking instructions and housemade bread and Vermont butter. The cost is $135 per couple. Order by Feb. 7. Pickups are on Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Birch Wood Vineyards (199 Rockingham Road, Derry, 965-4359, birchwoodvineyards.com) will serve a special multi-course Valentine’s Day dinner on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring items like oyster oaxacafeller, frisee salad, surf and turf of short rib and stuffed shrimp, and chocolate strawberry martinis. 

Buckley’s Great Steaks (438 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack, 424-0995, buckleysgreatsteaks.com) is taking reservations online now for Valentine’s Day, serving its regular menu with specials.

Buckley’s Market & Cafe (9 Market Place, Hollis, 465-5522, find them on Facebook @buckleysmarketcafehollis) is taking orders for Valentine’s Day “dinner for two” takeout boxes, featuring shrimp cocktail, a bottle of Prima prosecco, a surf and turf dinner of pan seared filet mignon and crab cake, roasted potatoes, spinach, tomatoes, Madeira demi-glace and remoulade, and white chocolate creme brulee and chocolate-covered strawberries for dessert. The cost is $90 per box. Order by Feb. 10. Pickups are Saturday, Feb. 13, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 14, from 8 a.m. to noon.

The Cake Fairy (114 Londonderry Turnpike, Hooksett, 518-8733, cakefairynh.com) is taking orders for several specialty treats for Valentine’s Day, like chocolate-covered strawberry cheesecake, heart-shaped cookies or cheesecakes, assorted breakfast pastries and more. Pickups are on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Candy Kingdom (235 Harvard St., Manchester, 641-8470, candykingdom.shop) has a variety of specialty treats available for Valentine’s Day, like chocolate-dipped strawberries, assorted heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and more.

Caroline’s Fine Food (132 Bedford Center Road, Bedford, 637-1615, carolinesfood.com) is offering special Valentine’s Day dinners for two. Entree options include beef tenderloin with port demi, roasted duck breast with cherry gastrique, horseradish-encrusted salmon with sauteed haricot verts, or pan seared chicken breast with porcini cream and roasted asparagus. All dinners come with shallot whipped potatoes and your choice of either pot de creme or baby lemon cake. The cost ranges from $75 to $90 per order. Order by Feb. 9 at 2 p.m. Pickups are on Friday, Feb. 12.

Cask & Vine (1 E. Broadway, Derry, 965-3454, caskandvine.com) is taking reservations for Valentine’s Day on Sunday, Feb. 14, when various specials will be served.

Cava Tapas & Wine Bar (10 Commercial Alley, Portsmouth, 319-1575, cavatapasandwinebar.com) will serve its annual aphrodisiac tasting menu for Valentine’s Day on Saturday, Feb. 13, and Sunday, Feb. 14, featuring items like yellowfin tuna, scallops and saffron, cherries and figs and more. The cost is $75 per person and reservations are required.

City Moose Cafe & Catering Co. (30 Temple St., Nashua, 943-5078, citymoosenh.com) is taking orders for fully prepared four-course meals for Valentine’s Day, which include your choice of housemade lobster chowder or corn chowder, a “cupid” salad with local hydroponic greens, pomegranate and goat cheese, airline chicken with house pan gravy and petite filets of beef with house demi sauce, and chocolate ganache tart with Champagne berry compote. Order by noon on Feb. 8. Pickups are on Saturday, Feb. 13, between 11 a.m. and noon.

Colby Hill Inn (33 The Oaks, Henniker, 428-3281, colbyhillinn.com) will celebrate Valentine’s Day on Sunday, Feb. 14, with a chocolate lover’s brunch from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and a three-course prix fixe menu from 4 to 8 p.m. The cost is $45 for the brunch and $70 for the dinner menu. Reservations are required.

The Common Man (25 Water St., Concord, 228-3463; 304 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack, 429-3463; 88 Range Road, Windham, 898-0088; Lakehouse Grille, 281 Daniel Webster Hwy., Meredith, 279-5221; 10 Pollard Road, Lincoln, 745-3463; 21 Water St., Claremont, 542-6171; Foster’s Boiler Room, 231 Main St., Plymouth, 536-2764; 60 Main St., Ashland, 968-7030; Lago, 1 Route 25, Meredith, 279-2253; Italian Farmhouse, 337 Daniel Webster Hwy., Plymouth, 536-4536; Airport Diner, 2280 Brown Ave., Manchester, 623-5040; Tilt’n Diner, 61 Laconia Road, Tilton, 286-2204; 104 Diner, 752 Route 104, New Hampton, 744-0120; thecman.com) is taking orders for “Sweetheart Suppers To Go,” or three-course Valentine’s Day dinners for two, that feature crab, spinach and artichoke dip, petite filet and lobster tail, and white chocolate mousse, almond and raspberry torte. The cost is $74.95 per meal for two and includes optional chocolate-covered strawberries for an additional $14.95 per four. Order by Feb. 7. Pickups are on Saturday, Feb. 13.

Copper Door Restaurant (15 Leavy Drive, Bedford, 488-2677; 41 S. Broadway, Salem, 458-2033; copperdoor.com) will serve a special prix fixe dinner menu for one day only for Valentine’s Day, on Sunday, Feb. 14. The cost varies depending on the number of courses ($59 per two-course meal, $69 per three-course meal or $79 per four-course meal). Options include crispy Brussels sprouts, shrimp-stuffed mushrooms, chicken rangoons, roasted beet and potato soup, kale and lemon panzanella salad, five-onion gratinee, caprese stuffed chicken, sesame ginger pork chop, cedar roasted salmon, lobster ravioli, red velvet cupcakes, strawberry shortcake, and bittersweet molten chocolate cake. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Copper Kettle To Go (39 Main St., Wilton, 654-2631, copperkettletogo.com) is taking orders for special Valentine’s “date boxes,” which come with your choice of either a bottle of Champagne or a four-pack of craft beer, plus heart ravioli, pasta sauce, real Italian ricotta and two cupcakes spiked with strawberries and cream liqueur. The cost is $74.95 per box. All boxes will be ready for pickup on Saturday, Feb. 13.

Cotton (75 Arms St., Manchester, 622-5488, cottonfood.com) is accepting Valentine’s Day dinner reservations now, from Wednesday, Feb. 10, through Sunday, Feb. 14, from 4 to 8:30 p.m. each day. Online reservations can be made through OpenTable.

The Cozy Tea Cart (104 Route 13, Brookline, 249-9111, thecozyteacart.com) will hold a Valentine’s Day afternoon tea on Sunday, Feb. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Gatherings at The Colonel Shepard House (29 Mont Vernon St., Milford). The cost is $39.95 per person and reservations are required.

The Crown Tavern (99 Hanover St., Manchester, 218-3132, thecrownonhanover.com) will be open on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 4 to 8 p.m., serving its regular dinner menu with Valentine’s Day specials.

Cupcakes 101 (132 Bedford Center Road, Bedford, 488-5962, cupcakes101.net) is taking orders for customizable goodie baskets for Valentine’s Day, which can include items like cake pops, chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate-covered pretzels, chocolate bark and more.

Dahlia Restaurant (dahlianomadic.com) is taking reservations for a six-course prix fixe menu for Valentine’s Day, with seatings at 5 and 7:30 p.m. on multiple days, beginning Feb. 7. Dinners will be served at The Birch on Elm (931 Elm St., Manchester) and are $175 per person. Among the courses are mushroom agnolotti with scallop, carrots and caviar; rib-eye with cauliflower puree, carrots and potatoes; and a buttermilk panna cotta with strawberry preserves, thyme and an almond crumble. Email reserve@dahlianomadic.com for the most up-to-date availability.

Emilee’s Sweet Treats (find them on Facebook @emileessweettreats) is taking orders for cocoa bombs in a variety of flavors, like milk or dark chocolate with strawberry marshmallows, dark raspberry, amaretto, peanut butter, mint, salted caramel and more. Specialty orders are also available, like an “I Love You” four-pack of cocoa bombs, and a single heart-shaped cocoa bomb inside a heart box. Order by Feb. 3. Pickups are on Wednesday, Feb. 10, at the Manchester Craft Market (inside the Mall of New Hampshire).

Fire and Spice Bistro (70 Route 108, Newfields, 418-7121, fireandspicebistro.com) will serve a special prix fixe dinner for two on Valentine’s Day Eve, Saturday, Feb. 13, from 4 to 9 p.m. The meal will include your choice of an appetizer (charcuterie platter, artisan cheeses, crab dip or half-dozen oysters on the half shell); a soup or salad; an entree (crabapple braised beef short ribs, wild mushroom risotto, Korean barbecue pulled pork gnocchi and cheese, mussels fra diavolo ramen bowl, or shrimp and grits); and a dessert (creme brulee cupcake, chipotle chocolate souffle or dark chocolate-covered strawberries). The cost is $99 per couple and reservations are accepted.

Firefly American Bistro & Bar (22 Concord St., Manchester, 935-9740, fireflynh.com) will be open for socially distanced indoor dining and heated patio dining on Valentine’s Day, and will also be offering takeout and delivery services within eight miles. Firefly will also be offering specialty wine, cocktail and gift boxes for Valentine’s Day, details of which are expected to be available in the coming days, according to event coordinator Rachael Jones. 

Flag Hill Distillery & Winery (297 N. River Road, Lee, 659-2949, flaghill.com) will serve a three-course dinner with wine pairings for Valentine’s Day on Sunday, Feb. 14, at 6 p.m. Options will include blackberry beet salad, your choice of an entree (seared tuna steak, grilled steak tips or grilled zucchini rollatini) and chocolate hazelnut tart for dessert. The cost is $90 per person (21+ only) and reservations are required.

The Foundry (50 Commercial St., Manchester, 836-1925, foundrynh.com) will be open for brunch on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., as well as for dinner from 4 to 9 p.m., serving Valentine’s Day specials in addition to its regular menu, like blood orange panzanella, grilled sugar cured New York strip steak, pan seared cod, chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry French macarons and more. Reservations can be made online through OpenTable.

Frederick’s Pastries (109 Route 101A, Amherst, 882-7725; 25 S. River Road, Bedford, 647-2253; pastry.net) is offering several specialty treats for Valentine’s Day, like conservation heart cakes, double chocolate chunk cookies with hearts, fresh strawberry tarts and more.

Georgia’s Northside (394 N. State St., Concord, 715-9189, georgiasnorthside.com) is taking orders for a special surf and turf dinner for Valentine’s Day, which includes bourbon-marinated New York strip steak, garlic and herb grilled shrimp kebabs, roasted jewel potatoes, winter salad and Brussels sprouts with bacon, honey and sweet pickled mustard seeds. The cost is $25 per person. Order by noon on Sunday, Feb. 14, for pickup later that day. Georgia’s Northside’s full menu will also be available on Valentine’s Day.

Granite State Candy Shoppe (13 Warren St., Concord, 225-2591; 832 Elm St., Manchester, 218-3885; granitestatecandyshoppe.com) is offering a variety of specialty chocolates and candies for Valentine’s Day, like milk, white or dark chocolate heart boxes, Valentine malt balls and nonpareils cherry hearts.

Greenleaf (54 Nashua St., Milford, 213-5447, greenleafmilford.com) will serve a special multi-course prix fixe menu for Valentine’s Day, with multiple seatings all weekend, at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13, and at 5 and 7 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 14. The cost is $99 per person, or $130 per person with optional wine pairings. Reservations are being accepted online through OpenTable.

Hanover Street Chophouse (149 Hanover St., Manchester, 644-2467, hanoverstreetchophouse.com) will serve a special four-course prix fixe dinner menu for Valentine’s Day, on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 4 to 8 p.m. Reservations are required.

The Hills Restaurant (Hampshire Hills Athletic Club, 50 Emerson Road, Milford, 673-7123, hampshirehills.com/the-hills-restaurant) is taking reservations now for specialty five-course meals all weekend for Valentine’s Day, on Thursday, Feb. 11, Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13. Courses will include your choice of an appetizer (crispy Brussels sprouts, cheese and berries plate, arancini, or roasted pepper and goat cheese flatbread); a soup or salad (creamy tomato basil bisque or field greens salad); an entree (steak frites, roasted cauliflower and black bean tacos, char siu pork tenderloin, brown sugar duck or cast iron shrimp); and a dessert (flourless chocolate torte, Italian lemon cream cake or sea salted caramel cheesecake). The cost is $45 per person.

The Inside Scoop (260 Wallace Road, Bedford, 471-7009, theinsidescoopnh.com) is taking orders for Valentine’s Day ice cream pies in a variety of flavors, each of which is made with a homemade Oreo crust and a whipped topping. Order by Feb. 10.

Jamison’s (472 Route 111, Hampstead, 489-1565, jamisonsrestaurant.com) will serve Valentine’s Day specials from Wednesday, Feb. 10, through Saturday, Feb. 13. Options will include foie gras, fried oysters, yellowfin tuna, duck confit tostada, lobster ravioli, statler chicken, roasted filet of beef, bread pudding and banana brulee. The cost is $55 per person for four courses and reservations are being accepted now. All items are also available to purchase a la carte.

LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst, 672-9898, labellewinerynh.com) will host its next Winemaker’s Kitchen cooking class on Wednesday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m., when participants will learn how to make beet ravioli with goat cheese filling. The cost is $45 per person and includes wine pairings. Then on Saturday, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. the winery will host “My Funny Valentine Dinner,” featuring a three-course dinner with a performance by Rich DiMare and Ron Poster and The Sinatra Ambassadors. The cost of that event is $85 per person and a full bar with wine, beer and cocktails will also be available for purchase.

Live Free or Pie Stand (455 East Road, Hampstead, livefreeorpiestand.com) is taking orders for “sweetie-pie” flights featuring three five-inch pies in flavors like dark chocolate chess, dark chocolate peanut butter swirl and pecan. Pickups are on Saturday, Feb. 13. 

Love & Joy Vegan Sweets (Raymond, loveandjoyvegansweets.com) is taking orders for several specialty vegan treats for Valentine’s Day, including heart-shaped macarons, chocolate cashew creams, strawberry-dipped cakes, raspberry lemon entremets and more. Order by Feb. 10. Local pickups will be on Saturday, Feb. 13.

Madear’s Southern Eatery & Bakery (141 Main St., Pembroke, 210-5557, madears603.com) will serve an all-you-can-eat Cajun brunch for Valentine’s Day on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring items like chicken and red velvet waffles, beignets, shrimp and grits, Southern greens, catfish nuggets and banana-stuffed French toast. The cost is $25 (plus $15 for unlimited mimosas or a bloody mary bar) and reservations are required. Then from 4:30 to 10 p.m., Madear’s will serve a five-course dinner with optional wine pairings. The cost is $114 per couple and reservations are required.

MT’s Local Kitchen & Wine Bar (212 Main St., Nashua, 595-9334, mtslocal.com) is taking reservations online now for Valentine’s Day, serving its regular menu with specials.

New England’s Tap House Grille (1292 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, 782-5137, taphousenh.com) will serve a special “to go” version of its Valentine’s Day Sunday brunch, featuring various items available for takeout, like house frittata, mini pancakes, croissants, blueberry muffins, homefries, bacon and sausage. Add-on options include mimosa or bloody mary baskets. The cost is $55 per order. Order by Feb. 10. Pickups will be on Feb. 14.

Nelson’s Candy & Music (65 Main St., Wilton, 654-5030, nelsonscandymusic.com) is offering a variety of specialty chocolates and candies for Valentine’s Day, like heart-shaped boxes made out of chocolate and filled with various flavors of chocolate-dipped strawberries, as well as solid chocolate dinosaurs holding tiny chocolate-covered marshmallow penguins holding hearts, and chocolate mold pianos filled with brandy-soaked cherry cordials.

Pearls Candy & Nuts (356 S. Broadway, Salem, 893-9100, pearlscandynh.com) is offering a variety of specialty chocolates and candies for Valentine’s Day, like assorted milk chocolate heart lollipops, classic conversation hearts, gummy sour candy hearts and more.

Presto Craft Kitchen (168 Amory St., Manchester, 606-1252, prestocraftkitchen.com) is taking orders for a variety of handcrafted desserts for Valentine’s Day, like jumbo chocolate-covered strawberries, Oreo cheesecake truffles, gold-dusted candy bars, assorted cheesecake push pops and chocolate-covered Oreos. Presto is also taking orders for special Valentine’s Day dinners for two, featuring either Caesar or field green salads, your choice of an entree (roast pork loin with rice pilaf and glazed carrots, sirloin steak marsala over penne, chicken Parmesan over penne, baked lobster mac, shrimp scampi over linguine, petite filet over lobster risotto with asparagus, heart-shaped cheese ravioli with garlic bread, or twin beef filet with roast potato and garlic beans), and a sweet (Oreo truffles, strawberry cheesecake, tiramisu or mini pastry sampler). Free chocolate strawberries are also included with all dinner orders. Order by Feb. 8. Pickups are on Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13.

Roots Cafe at Robie’s Country Store (9 Riverside St., Hooksett, 485-7761, rootsatrobies.com) will serve a special Valentine’s Day dinner menu on Saturday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m. featuring seared scallops with parsnip puree and beet reduction, your choice of an entree (local short ribs with herbed mashed potatoes, ginger and honey carrots with a cabernet demi, or citrus roasted hen with petit roasted potato, spring pea and prosciutto hash), and chocolate cherry mousse with chocolate-covered cherries for dessert. The cost is $150 per couple and includes a red rose, card and Champagne ($100 per couple for just the dinner), and the menu is also available via takeout.

Sawbelly Brewing (156 Epping Road, Exeter, 583-5080, sawbellybrewing.com) will be open on Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13, from noon to 8 p.m., and on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., serving various specials in addition to its regular menu, like grilled oysters, honey-roasted parsnips, beef Wellington and butternut squash ravioli.

Surf (207 Main St., Nashua, 595-9293, surfseafood.com) is taking reservations online now for Valentine’s Day, serving its regular menu with specials.

To Share Brewing Co. (720 Union St., Manchester, 836-6947, tosharebrewing.com) will hold a “Valentine’s & Galentine’s” weekend from Thursday, Feb. 11, through Sunday, Feb. 14, featuring themed table games, a beer and chocolate truffle with the Bearded Baking Co., live music and more.

Van Otis Chocolates (341 Elm St., Manchester, 627-1611, vanotis.com) is offering a variety of specialty chocolates and candies for Valentine’s Day, like assorted chocolate gift boxes, red velvet truffles, custom chocolate-dipped Champagne bottles and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Ya Mas Greek Taverna & Bar (125 Bridge St., Pelham, 635-4230, yamasgreektaverna.com) is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special two-course brunch on Sunday, Feb. 14, with seatings at 10 a.m. or at noon. The meal will feature your choice of lobster Benedict, steak and eggs, a breakfast skillet, braised lamb shank or braised pork shank for a first course, and your choice of banana coconut cream pie French toast, bougatsa French toast, S’mores French toast or chocolate fondue for a second course. The cost is $120 per couple. Four-course dinner reservations are also being accepted that day, from 2 to 4:30 p.m., 5 to 7:30 p.m. and 8 to 10:30 p.m., featuring your choice of a first course (coconut lobster bisque, baked stuffed oysters, vegan grape leaves or Greek village salad); a second course (cheese fondue, house spanakopita or a cold meze platter); a third course (chicken roulade, braised lamb shank, braised pork shank, prime short rib, seafood risotto, or whole grilled branzino), and a fourth course (orange and chocolate-stuffed crepes, crema caramel, or a chocolate fondue for two). The cost is $250 per couple.

Zorvino Vineyards (226 Main St., Sandown, 887-8463, zorvino.com) will serve a special four-course dinner for Valentine’s Day on Saturday, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. Courses include burrata blood orange and fennel salad, five spice seared duck breast, your choice of entree (prosciutto-wrapped stuffed sole or coffee-braised short rib) and strawberry cheesecake. The cost is $75 per person and reservations are required.

This story was possible with the generous financial support of Hippo readers. Hippo is very grateful to have the support of its readers. If you haven’t contributed yet, please consider a small contribution. Your contributions allow Hippo to write more stories and gets you access to additional stories and columns. 

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Looking back

Live entertainment figures share memories

When the Hippo launched 20 years ago, Granite Staters often had to drive to Boston for live music or comedy. There weren’t nearly as many local venues, and a lot of the venues that were around weren’t interested in showcasing musicians who played original music. In the final piece of our month-long series looking back at some of the subjects Hippo has covered over the years, we talked some of the bigger names in New Hampshire’s music and comedy scene.

Scott Hayward

Scott Hayward is the founder of Tupelo Music Hall, which opened in Londonderry in September 2004 and moved to a larger space in Derry in the spring of 2017.

How would you describe the local live entertainment scene 20 years ago? 

New Hampshire didn’t have as many venues as it has today and the music offerings were more specific. Typically, people would go to Boston to see a show 20 years ago. There weren’t many multi-genre venues. There were blues clubs, jazz clubs, rock clubs, etc. Today, venues are providing much more diverse programming aimed at a patron demographic rather than a musical genre.

What do you think the most significant changes have been over the last 20 years, pre-pandemic?

Twenty years ago, artists were able to make a living selling recorded material. Touring was not as important as it is today. Now, as CD and record sales have taken a back seat to Spotify, Pandora, and other streaming services, artists need to tour constantly. Ticket sales and merchandise sales at shows is what artists are living on these days.

How did your efforts impact the local live entertainment scene?

Tupelo Music Hall opened using a multi-genre model focused on a patron demographic. We were one of the first venues to do this in New England. About five years after Tupelo Music Hall opened, other venues started using the same model, booking similar artists.

What has surprised you about the way the state’s live entertainment scene has developed?

New Hampshire has a very vibrant music scene and offers venues from capacities of 50 to 12,000. I believe this is in response to more people moving into southern New Hampshire from Massachusetts as the Route 93 corridor has improved from Concord into Boston. There’s really no need to go into Boston to see a show anymore.

What do you think the live entertainment scene will be like 20 years from now, and what challenges will it face?

The recent Covid crisis that we are in will definitely change the music business. How it will change remains to be seen, but I suspect that cleaning protocols, refund policies, and general health awareness will all be permanently modified. Although streaming shows have definitely improved in quality and viewership during Covid, I believe artists will always be touring and people will always prefer to see a live performance. I suspect there will be more consolidation of venues and less independent venues. I hope I’m wrong about that particular suspicion.

Aside from your own venue, what’s your favorite spot to enjoy live entertainment?

The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion is a favorite spot for me and my wife when we can get away from our own venue.

Jim Roach

Jim Roach is the President of JJR Productions, and books shows across the region. The Christmas Buzz Ball, Concert for the Cause and Veterans Park Summer Concerts are among the events he’s involved with, as well as music and comedy shows at the Palace and the Rex Theatre in Manchester.

How would you describe the local live entertainment scene 20 years ago

Twenty years ago, the music and entertainment scene in New Hampshire was in rough shape. There were few venues to perform in, and most of those venues wanted cover music or background music. Talented musicians were having to make a living off other musicians’ music.

What do you think the most significant changes have been over the last 20 years, pre-pandemic?

I believe the most important decision came when local officials moved forward with the civic center — formerly the Verizon Wireless Arena, now SNHU Arena. The Palace Theatre was one of the few places to see well-known, live entertainment in Manchester at the time. The clubs catered to cover bands, or the occasional hair band trying to make a comeback. With big acts coming to the civic center, restaurants and bars opened to serve those fans. Some were worried that those big shows would hurt the Palace and others. Just the opposite: Manchester was now a destination for entertainment. Strange Brew brought in blues bands, and other venues started to experiment with live music. I think Hippo was a big factor helping push other print and broadcast media into covering local, regional and national talent.

How did your efforts impact the local live entertainment scene?

My effort to bring more entertainment to the area has always been about building a team. To produce successful shows, you need that team to work together. First you need a venue, a place for people to gather. … Second, you need a performer or performers that have crafted their art onto something they want to share. Third, you need to find a way to market those shows: print, radio, television, social media, word of mouth. Finally, you need people that will buy tickets and come see your event. I truly believe my role is to bring the pieces together. When you have an audience that connects with an artist, it does not matter your race, creed, color or preference; you can be red or blue. In that room, we are humans experiencing art that might make us smile, laugh, sing, dance or even cry. At that moment, we are more human. We need that now more than ever.

What has surprised you about the way the state’s live entertainment scene has developed?

In New Hampshire, I am surprised at how long it has taken for people to embrace live entertainment. I want more people to get off their couches to see, hear and feel something that touches their soul.

What do you think the live entertainment scene will be like 20 years from now, and what challenges will it face?

I’m not sure about the next 20 years. What I know is that the next five years are going to be the most important. Getting through this virus is the biggest concern right now. Keeping venues alive until then is the only way we can secure the future of entertainment. In the next year, we are going to find a way to build on virtual events and socially distanced events … events that allow patrons to feel safe and be safe with mask wearing and being respectful of each other. If we work together with our elected officials and the health community, we can get to a place where a year from now we can gather with friends we know and others we don’t to immerse ourselves in the arts. I am excited to see new rooms opening: The Rex, Bank of NH Stage, Showroom in Keene, The Colonial and C.A.K.E. in Laconia, Jimmy’s on Congress in Portsmouth….

What’s your favorite spot to enjoy live entertainment?

Everywhere! I love a dive bar with a killer blues band, a lounge with jazz performers opening your mind, a theater or club packed for a play or an artist playing their hits we heard on the radio, a field with a stage, good vibes and a beer tent. My favorites include Hampton Beach Casino, Flying Monkey, Tupelo Music Hall, Strange Brew, The Rex, Bank of NH Stage, Meadowbrook, The Palace, Capitol Center for the Arts … and so many more.

Paul Costley

Paul Costley runs NotSoCostley Productions and books the lion’s share of live entertainment in New Hampshire’s night clubs and restaurants. He’s also a musician, a drummer who has co-hosted several open mics and played in a number of groups, including the Josh Logan Band.

How would you describe the local live music scene 20 years ago? 

The music scene back in the 2000 was lots of fun. People tended to pay a little more attention to music back then. Today when you play at a venue it always amazes me how many people are on their cell phones and checking their social media versus really paying attention to the music that is taking place in front of them.

What do you think the most significant changes have been over the last 20 years, pre-pandemic?

There’s a lot more venues that have music than back 20 years ago. I feel there are a lot more options for people to get out and see music. Many small little cozy venues are springing up, with some great live acoustic music, which I think is great.

How did your efforts impact the local live music scene?

I’ve worked hand in hand with many of the venue owners that I book music for to see the best way to keep patrons and my musicians safe during this crazy pandemic, and still have live music take place. Hopefully, with the vaccines now being distributed, things will start opening up again in the spring and fall.

What has surprised you about the way the state’s live music scene has developed? 

I’ve run an open mic with Nate Comp since 2010 and it’s very promising to see all the young talent that we have in this state. We’ve had so many young people attend our open mics as well as our friends’ open mics and they all say the same thing. There’s still a lot of young people trying to make their mark with the local music scene, which I love seeing take place.

What do you think the live music scene will be like 20 years from now, and what challenges will it face?

To be honest with you, I don’t really have a clue, as the technology changes on a daily basis. But it will be fun to just sit back and watch what takes place.

What’s your favorite spot to enjoy live entertainment?

I personally love seeing music in a small intimate setting where you can really get up close and personal with the musician that’s performing. … On the other hand, I think it’s wonderful that we have great live music venues like Tupelo Music Hall and the Bank of NH Pavilion, where you can listen to some of the best music in this country.

Rob Steen

Rob Steen is a standup comic and entrepreneur who runs Headliners Comedy Club and has spent 35 years booking shows throughout New England at venues that include several opera houses, restaurants and night clubs, the Chunky’s Cinema & Pub chain and his own showcase club in Manchester’s DoubleTree Hotel.

How would you describe the local comedy scene 20 years ago? 

Well, back in the late ’80s there were many shows all over the state in small venues and bars. Nearly every venue would have a comedy night. It was great, as you could work literally seven nights a week and make a decent living. Patrons would follow comics from place to place and they really supported the local comedy. Comics would create a following, which really helped. Also, we had such great comics like Bill Burr, Lenny Clarke, Dane Cook, Tony V, Steve Sweeney and other great Boston and New York City comics working up here on a regular basis, especially if they were already in the area doing Boston or a corporate show. Occasionally you would have Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Steven Wright and other national acts popping in to do sets while in the area too, which was super exciting.

What do you think the most significant changes have been over the last 20 years, pre-pandemic?

In the past 20 years comedy has changed in that now every area and market has a handful of local comics who are very funny, so the need to bring in acts from out of New England has shrunk. New England continues to pump out some of the best comics in the country. I think it’s due in part to the fact that there are so many unique venues and opportunities now, as well as a very diverse and talented pool of comics here. Comics in the Northeast are able to work colleges, high schools, cruise ships, corporate shows, fundraisers and clubs. … This all makes for a well-rounded comic who is able to work any situation. Also venues now know what comedy is and are aware of what they are getting on every show due to YouTube, the web and social media. Comics now can create their own brand and market that brand directly to the customers, which really helps agents and promoters when booking the shows.

How did your efforts impact the local comedy scene?

When I began doing shows in New Hampshire in 1986 I was very young, and like most comics I was just trying to find my voice. I was living in the Boston area and booking shows around the North Shore in Massachusetts. I began promoting shows in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as there were not many agents focusing on northern New England. My goal was always to give everyone I could a stage to perform on. Currently, I’ve had the longest-running weekly shows in New Hampshire. I partner with a few local venues like the DoubleTree in Manchester and Chunky’s Cinemas who share the same goal to create a comedy scene here in New Hampshire. I have seen many young comics grow from open mic to touring with national acts and even go on to do late-night television and sitcoms. … I would never take the credit for their success, but I feel honored to have played a small role. I continue to book and produce over 50 events a week for local and regional acts to cut their teeth on. I welcome the next generation of comics to my stages. From what I’ve been seeing, we have a very talented crew coming up.

What has surprised you about the way the state’s comedy scene has developed?

One of the most surprising things I’ve seen is how supportive the comics are. There is a sense of camaraderie that is so prevalent now. I see comics who are very talented and gifted helping the younger generation. There are some comics that coach, and in some instances mentor, the younger comics and show them the ropes. I also have seen a shift in that we [comedians] … have always offered to give back to the community by doing countless fundraisers for all types of organizations.

What do you think the comedy scene will be like 20 years from now, and what challenges will it face?

I think the scene will continue to grow and evolve. I feel that in recent times we have been forced to explore other areas to express ourselves and perform. Live comedy will always thrive in New Hampshire thanks to the support of local venues, as well as patrons that want to see comedy. Not only will we see live comedy grow, I’m sure we will see growth in the streaming of these shows online so patrons in small areas can join in. We are in the beginning stages of Zoom comedy. It will be great to see what this will be like moving forward. … [And places like] Manchester … [have] been growing so fast and really becoming a hub for smart and energetic people. There are many businesspeople, like Dean Kamen, for example, who are playing a major role here in New Hampshire. What he and others are doing is awesome and helping to make New Hampshire a place to be. This will inevitably help all of us here in the arts.

What’s your favorite spot to enjoy live entertainment?

Whenever I work locally, I like to go out after my shows. I like going to see a blues and jazz band at Strange Brew. I also like Penuche’s on Elm for their bands. Tupelo has really done a great job bringing in so many great acts over the years. Honestly, there are so many places now to enjoy live music or dancing. New Hampshire really has something for everyone now. 

Featured photo: (From, left to right) Scott Hayward, Jim Roach, Paul Costley, Rob Steen.

The Music Roundup 21/01/28

Soulful: Along with winning a NEMA for best male performer a few years back, Munk Duane is skillful at making money in the music business, with thousands of paid downloads and licensing deals. He often fronts powerhouse band Soul Jacker, but the pandemic dictates Duane play solo for now. Check out his latest video, “Fanblade,” a groove-soaked throwback with a serious Prince vibe. Thursday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m., Stumble Inn, 20 Rockingham Road, Londonderry. See munkduane.com.

Stretch: Uniquely combining exercise and music, Disco Funk Yoga with DJ Funky Foley-B adheres to safety protocols with a class size limit of eight participants and a program with a bevy of disco-era booty-shakers, over 90 minutes of high-energy vinyasa yoga flow. Head back to the ’70s as the lights go down and a laser show mixes with a few dance breaks throughout the practice. Friday, Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m., Vibe Yoga, 182 Main St., Nashua, $25 and $30 at vibeyoga603.com.

Relaxing: A microbrewery and restaurant housed in a historic fire station offers Tyler Allgood as part of its regular live music schedule. “Brewery shrinks” Jason Palmer and Stanley Tremblay make beer and food on site. Their latest tap creation is an amber lager dubbed Men Are From Marzen; their Cinnamon Cookie Cream Ale is also tasty. Allgood plays covers and many fine original songs. Saturday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m., Liquid Therapy, 14 Court St., Nashua, 402-9391.

Paternal: Enjoy a hearty meal and music from Pete Peterson at a hub for the local scene. Over the winter the restaurant-bar has weekend entertainment, but as things warm up there’s someone playing every night. One of the more ubiquitous performers in the state, Peterson also performs with his daughter Yamica in the band Family Affair and hosts several open mics. Saturday, Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m., Derryfield Restaurant, 625 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 623-2880.

Regular: A Seacoast eatery does its part to keep musicians working as Alex Anthony holds down multiple dates, Saturday, Monday and Wednesday, playing solo. Anthony is a singer and songwriter who received radio airplay a few years back for “Burning In The Sun,” which he released as Seven Mile Drive. He covers artists like Ray Lamontagne, James Taylor, City and Colour, and Damien Rice. Monday, Feb. 1, 9 p.m., The Goat, 142 Congress St., Portsmouth, 590-4628.

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