Category: News

News & Notes 23/11/16

Livable NH

AARP has unveiled the 10 top-scoring livable communities in New Hampshire according to its new AARP Livability Index. According to a press release, this index evaluates factors crucial for aging populations, such as housing, transportation, neighborhood elements, environment, health and community engagement. The highest-ranking communities in New Hampshire are Hanover, Lebanon, Portsmouth, Plymouth, Concord, Keene, Littleton, Goffstown, Peterborough and Manchester. While these communities have shown progress in job availability, environmental aspects and civic involvement, they all require improvements, particularly in housing affordability and access, as well as proximity to key destinations. The AARP Livability Index is a comprehensive tool that scores communities across the U.S. based on services and amenities impacting aging individuals, aiming to bridge the gap between current community provisions and the needs of older adults. The platform, accessible online at aarp.org/livabilityindex, allows users to search for scores by address, ZIP code or community and includes new features like the “Community Finder Quiz” and climate data for each location.

Organic rules

The organic certification process in New Hampshire is facing significant changes. According to a press release from the Free State Food Network, the National Organic Program, a federal standard for crops and livestock, has grown into a $50 billion industry but is now challenged by issues such as funding, potential corruption and lack of transparency. The New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food (NHDAMF), the current accrediting agent for organic certification in the state, is considering relinquishing its role due to staffing challenges, rigorous program standards, and an outdated fee structure. While this move might end state enforcement of organic certification, it wouldn’t halt the issuance of certifications, as other agents could step in to fill the gap. Two legislative service requests are in place to address this issue: LSR 2024-2473 advocates for an agreement with the USDA for organic certification, while LSR 2024-2167 proposes removing the responsibility from the NHDAMF. Concerns have been raised about the National Organic Program’s governance, suggesting it now leans more toward commercial interests rather than the ethical and safety standards initially intended.

Future workforce

ApprenticeshipNH, a workforce program of the Community College System of New Hampshire, is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week from Nov. 13 through Nov. 19. According to a press release, the program, focusing on high-demand fields like advanced manufacturing, health care, IT and more, combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training in an “earn-while-you-learn” model. The highlight of the week is the first-ever ApprenticeshipNH Summit on Nov. 17, aimed at strengthening New Hampshire’s workforce by connecting employers, career seekers and community organizations. The summit will feature interactive workshops, networking opportunities and Champion Recognitions for businesses and individuals leading in apprenticeship initiatives. Funded primarily by U.S. Department of Labor grants, ApprenticeshipNH has established more than 100 apprenticeship programs and supported 1,300 apprentices since its inception in 2017.

Liquor commission kudos

The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) has been honored for the eighth consecutive year by StateWays Magazine in the Control State Best Practices Awards, according to a press release. Recognized for its alcohol responsibility programming and retail innovations, NHLC won awards for “Best On-Premise Partnership” for its New Hampshire Mocktail Month program and “Best Retail Innovation” for the ‘Tis the Season marketing campaign. New Hampshire Mocktail Month, initiated in 2020 in partnership with Brown-Forman, involves the state’s restaurant community in promoting alcohol-free “mocktails” to encourage responsible drinking. The ‘Tis the Season campaign, conducted during the 2022 holiday season, effectively used various media platforms to enhance customer engagement and sales.

Capital trip

On Tuesday, Nov. 14, more than 50 small business owners from across the country, including a group from New Hampshire, visited Washington, D.C., to address challenges regarding access to affordable capital, according to a press release. In response to the Federal Reserve’s consideration of the Basel III Endgame regulation, which is expected to increase the cost of business loans and credit lines, these business owners met with more than 40 lawmakers and senior Federal Reserve officials. They aimed to highlight the negative impact of this regulation on small businesses and presented a comment letter signed by more than 3,000 small business owners nationwide, with 44 signatories from New Hampshire. New Hampshire representatives included Dina Akel of Vieira Luxe, Shira Nafshi of The Trainer’s Loft, Danya Landis of Machina Kitchen & ArtBar, Celeste Burns of Burns Automotive Services, and Toutou Marsden of Dell-Lea Weddings & Events. Their efforts were part of a larger initiative to advocate for small businesses in the current high interest rate environment.

Returning for its 11th season, the Ice Castles attraction is set to reopen in North Woodstock, according to a press release. This year’s installation, with an anticipated opening in late December or early January, features a new design with slides, caverns, tunnels and ice sculptures. Tickets go on sale on Nov. 29. Visit icecastles.com/new-hampshire.

Ellie Mental Health, which describes itself as having an innovative and community-driven approach to mental health care, has opened a new location in Manchester at 25 Sundial Ave., in Suite 310W. According to a press release, the mental health franchise has been rapidly expanding nationwide. Visit elliementalhealth.com.

Join Derry Public Library (64 E. Broadway) on Wednesday, Nov. 29, at 6:30 p.m. for an informative session with Dan Blakeman of Lifetime Retirement Partners, as he delves into essential retirement topics. According to a press release, Blakeman will cover a range of subjects including long-term care, Social Security, and the development of a solid financial plan for retirement. Register online at derrypl.org/adult/events/9564/retirement-planning-workshop.

This Week 23/11/09

Big Events November 9, 2023 and beyond

Friday, Nov. 10

The Capitol Center for the Arts’ William H. Gile Concert Series has two free shows this weekend. Tonight, catch the NH 39th Army Band Veterans Day Concert at 7 p.m. at the Cap Center’s Chubb Theatre (44 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com). Admission is free but go online for tickets to the event.

Friday, Nov. 10

The curtain rises on the classic whodunit Clue, a play based on a movie based on a board game about who killed Mr. Boddy and presented by the Anselmian Abbey Players at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive in Manchester; tickets.anselm.edu, 641-7700). Shows tonight and Saturday, Nov. 11, are at 7:30 p.m.; the Sunday, Nov. 12, show is at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $20.

Saturday, Nov. 11

The second Gile Concert this weekend is a Deepawali Celebration today at 6 p.m. at the Heights Community Center (14 Canterbury Road in Concord) featuring the band Himalayan Dreams. The event is free and tickets are not required; see ccanh.com for videos of their performances of Nepali music.

Tuesday, Nov. 14

LaBelle Winery in Derry (14 Route 111, labellewinery.com) will hold the grand opening of its LaBelle Lights holiday lights display today from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. More than a million twinkling lights are part of the path of lights, a map of which can be found at labellewinery.com/lights. The display is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 7. Each week features a theme; “Holiday Card Week” kicks off the celebration with “Holiday Pajama Week” Nov. 21 through Nov. 26, according to a press release, which says ticket holders are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or a non-perishable food item for End 68 Hours of Hunger. Tickets are on sale now and cost $18 for adults, $12 for ages 65+ and $8 for ages 4 to 12 (kids ages 3 and under get in free and tickets on Tuesdays are half price), according to the press release.

Tuesday, Nov. 14

Chris Isaak comes to the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St. in Derry; tupelomusichall.com, 437-5100) on the “It’s Almost Christmas” tour tonight at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $95 to $125. Find more ticketed musical happenings in our Concert listings on page 38.

Wednesday, Nov. 15

Start planning your Thanksgiving menu with help from WineNot Boutique (25 Main St. in Nashua; winenotboutique.com), which is holding a “Selecting Wines for Thanksgiving” walk-around event. Tickets cost $20 for a 45-minute tasting session (first session starts at 4 p.m., final session starts at 7 p.m.). Consider 15 wines from three wine companies, according to the website, where you can purchase tickets.

Save the Date! Friday, Nov. 16
The Nutcracker will be presented by Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater, at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St . in Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) Thursday, Nov. 16, through Sunday, Nov. 19. The Nutcracker features more than 60 dancers and performers, according to a press release. Tickets cost $28 to $49. Shows are Thursday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 17, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 18, at 11 a.m., 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 19, at noon and 5 p.m.

Featured photo: Labelle Lights.

Quality of Life 23/11/09

Paying the bills

Doxo’s latest report, featured on CNBC and titled “Which Largest U.S. Cities are Most Expensive for Household Bills in 2023?,” found that the average household in Manchester spends $2,276 monthly, or $27,306 annually, on the 10 most common household bills — an amount that is 11.2 percent higher than the national average of $2,046. The report, which includes cost of living data for more than 4,000 U.S. cities, reveals that Manchester households allocate 44 percent of their annual income, which averages $62,415, to these bills.

QOL score: -2

Comment: Looking statewide, Manchester places as the No. 13 most expensive city in New Hampshire; Bedford takes the No. 1 spot.

Housing shortage

New Hampshire faces a severe housing shortage, NH Business Review reported, ranking fourth in the nation according to Up for Growth’s report, which highlights the state’s critical need for both owned and rental properties. The report cites a requirement for 31,000 housing units in New Hampshire, significantly higher than local estimates. This issue is exacerbated by restrictive zoning and construction challenges, as detailed in the Zoning Atlas by the Center for Ethics in Society at Saint Anselm College and other state agencies. The Atlas reveals the extensive limitations in New Hampshire’s zoning regulations, impacting the development of affordable workforce housing.

QOL score: -2

Comment: This housing crisis is further underscored by data from the New Hampshire Association of Realtors, showing a drastic decline in housing affordability, with the state’s median household income now only 59 percent of what’s needed to afford a median-priced home.

A smooth election day?

For the Nov. 7 election, which had just begun at press time, the City of Manchester implemented several initiatives to encourage voter participation. According to a press release, electronic voter checklists, successfully trialed during the September municipal primary, were used in all city wards to streamline the voting process, reducing check-in times to an average of 13 seconds per voter. Additionally, the Manchester Transit Authority (MTA) offered free rides to and from the polls on local fixed bus routes. To use the free service, residents informed bus drivers that they were commuting to or from the polls, a benefit exclusive to local routes and not applicable to intercity buses.

QOL score: +1

Comment: Similar free Election Day transit services were also provided in neighboring communities such as Dover, Rochester and Portsmouth through the COAST public transit system.

QOL score: 91
Net change: -3
QOL this week: 88

What’s affecting your Quality of Life here in New Hampshire?
Let us know at news@hippopress.com.

Eovaldi rolls in playoffs

The Big Story – The final dagger was plunged into the back of the Chaim Bloom era in Boston by Nate Eovaldi when he concluded a postseason run for the ages with a 4-1 Game 5 win over Arizona to end the World Series. It gave the Texas franchise its first ever world title since being born as the second version of the Washington Senators in 1961.

Eovaldi was deemed too expensive by Bloom for the starting pitching-poor Red Sox. He was replaced by the aging and injury-prone Corey Kluber. And by pitching just 56 innings all year while going 3-3 with an un-microscopic 7.04 ERA he was a major nail in Bloom’s coffin.

Meanwhile deep in the heart of Texas Eovaldi went 12-5 in the regular season and made the All-Star team as a prelude to his historic postseason performance, where his team won all six games he started as he went 5-0 with a 2.95 ERA and 41 K’s in 36.2 innings, leaving Red Sox Nation to play the Bob Lobel role and say, ‘Why can’t we get guys like that?’

Mark Ferdinando Memorial Sports 101: With his trade from the 76ers to the Clippers last week James Harden became just the second former MVP to be traded four times. Name the first one.

News Item – The ‘Was It Tom Brady or the Coach?’ Debate: Rough week for the coaches’ side. Coach B’s rep took another hit after the latest Patriots game ended in a 20-17 loss to the terrible Washington football team. Then, after getting whacked in Vegas to make it the second time he didn’t make it to the end of Year 2 as a head coach, you’ve got to think that’s all she wrote for Josh McDaniels’ HC career, which puts another notch in Brady’s belt.

Then there was Colin Cowherd reporting on his show the combined record of the Belichick coaching tree — McDaniels, Eric Mangini, Matt Patricia, Joe Judge and Romeo Crennel — wascollectivelyunder .300 lifetime.

News Item – Red Sox Introduce New GM: The gullible among us are buying the rap that new Sox Baseball Ops President Craig Breslow is the smartest intellect in baseball. The skeptics, however, note Bloom was also a Yale man and are thinking of Lou Gorman telling all he hired the equally inexperienced Butch Hobson as manager because a bright young mind like his won’t last long on the open market. And given that both were complete disasters, it makes one wonder if the only reason Breslow got the job is that all the top-tier candidates said thanks but no thanks to working for indecisive Sox owner John Henry.

The Numbers:

11 – wins vs. no losses on the road as Texas roared through the MLB playoffs.

38 – points along with 10 rebounds, two blocks and two assists in the breakout game for giant 7’5” French import Victor Wembanyama when the Spurs downed the Suns 132-121 last week.

80 – amount in millions Las Vegas is paying McDaniels and Jon Gruden not to coach the Raiders

… Of the Week Awards

Halloween Costume: Sen. Mitt Romney and wife Ann went as NFL “It” couple Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. Didn’t look anything like them, but A for effort for the buttoned-up Mittster.

Thumbs Up – The Celtics: Got to like their 5-0 start while becoming the second team ever to score 500+ points in their first four games of a season.

Thumbs Down – James Harden: Who cares if Danny Granger lost his job only because this me-first creep wanted out of Philly. Right, James? Boooo.

A Little History – Revived Classic Old-Time Quote: It comes from legendarily feisty Indiana Basketball Coach Bobby Knight, who passed away last week at 83. He once told a packed Assembly Hall crowd, “When my time on earth is gone, and my activities here are past, I want they bury me upside down and my critics can kiss my ass.” An on-the-mark personal eulogy if there ever was one. RIP, Bobby.

Sports 101 Answer: The other four-times-traded MVP is the great Bob McAdoo, whose NBA odyssey took him from the Buffalo Braves (now L.A. Clippers) to the Knicks, Celtics, Pistons and eventually L.A., where he was a killer off the bench for the ’80s Showtime Lakers. He also was the guy Pistons GM Dick Vitale (yes that one) gave the two first-round picks for that Red Auerbach turned into Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, leading to three Celtics titles in the ’80s.

Final Thought – Corey Seager’s Mega Deal: I thought Texas was nuts giving the injury-riddled shortstop a 10-year deal, let alone for the whopping price tag of $325 million. Since he only played 119 games in 2023 I’m still iffy on the 10-year part. But in batting .327 with 33 homers and then being World Series MVP as Texas won its first ever world title, he’s paid off so far.

Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

In the market?

A real estate attorney discusses homebuying

Matthew W. Neuman, Esq., real estate attorney of Bedford-based Absolute Title, discusses crucial home buying steps, the impact of fluctuating interest rates and his innovative approach to the closing process.

What are the crucial steps a New Hampshire homebuyer should follow before diving into the market?

It’s vital any buyer thinking of … using mortgage financing first reach out to a mortgage lender to verify their mortgage eligibility. With rates higher than the historic lows from a couple of years ago, it’s vital they identify their budget and focus on a realistic purchase price point. … Once you establish that price, they need to seek out a Realtor who will help guide them to only properties in their price range.

How are fluctuating interest rates impacting the average New Hampshire homebuyer?

Interest rates have fluctuated from all-time lows a couple years ago to where they are currently, hovering around 8 percent. These current rates are being characterized as very high when in reality they’re almost exactly equal to the historic average rate since 1971 of 7.75 percent, but as rates increase the consumer’s buying power decreases and prices them out of houses they may have been able to afford two years ago. Unfortunately most consumers are holding onto the memory of the historic rates. … It will be another 12 to 24 months before we see much relief in the area of interest rates, so people need to reset their expectations.

What are some common corners buyers are cutting in the current market, and what potential pitfalls should they be wary of?

If a buyer waives their right to perform a home inspection prior to closing, they run the risk of missing significant structural and mechanical defects in the property that could be addressed and negotiated with the seller. Buying “as is” is just that, and any issues go right along with it and more than likely will have no recourse against the seller. Buyers who waive their rights of due diligence for easements, restriction, covenants, etc., will miss the opportunity to verify there are no restrictions on the property that could potentially impair their intended use of the property, such as ‘no livestock’ for people looking to have chickens.

You’ve been credited with creating proprietary software to aid in the closing process. Can you explain how this technology helps the average buyer?

Historically, buyers were limited to one of two ways to bring their funds to closing: either a wire transfer sent from their bank, or bringing a bank certified check to closing. Both of those options are inconvenient, often costly and highly susceptible to fraud. In 2018 we released AbsolutePay, our proprietary and patented payment platform that allows buyers, sellers, Realtors and lenders to transfer the funds required for a closing from their account to ours easily, safely, securely and for free. They can initiate it in a few minutes from their desktop, laptop, tablet or phone.

How does fraud intersect with real estate, and what are some simple steps buyers can take to protect themselves?

Fraud has become quite rampant in the real estate world. The reliance on email as the preferred form of communication has opened the door for fraudsters to interject themselves into a conversation between the parties of a transaction and then steer the parties to make a fatal mistake, such as providing fraudulent wire instructions, which can then result in the loss of these funds. Wire instructions should never be provided through ‘unsecure’ email and should always be verified over the phone. Picking up the phone and having conversations will help to minimize the risk of fraud. Another fraud situation that has recently grown in popularity is the sale of ‘vacant’ land by someone purporting to be the owner but in reality is a fraudster. They will reach out to a Realtor, usually through email, explaining they live out of state or are on vacation and would like to list their property for sale but they don’t want their neighbors to know they’re selling so they instruct the Realtor to not place a ‘for sale’ sign at the property. Once the property goes under agreement, all correspondence with the seller occurs through email, and if not caught in time, the transaction is completed, resulting in funds being wired to the fraudsters. These situations can be avoided by choosing to work with experienced Realtors and title professionals.

Featured photo: Matthew W. Neuman. Courtesy photo.

News & Notes 23/11/09

Report on aging

The New Hampshire State Commission on Aging (NHCOA) has released its 2022-2023 Annual Report, offering key insights into policy and legislative efforts that aim to enhance the quality of life for New Hampshire’s aging population, according to a press release. Formed in 2019, the 26-member Commission, comprising state legislators, agency representatives and gubernatorial appointees, advises on aging-related policy and planning. The report, reflecting New Hampshire’s status as the second-oldest state in the U.S., focuses on systemic thinking and innovation to support an aging population. “People are living longer, healthier lives and our report provides key insights on numerous policy and legislative efforts over the past year, as well as future recommendations that we believe can continue to improve and enhance the quality of life for all who live in the Granite State,” Susan Ruka, NHCOA Chair, said in the release. The public is invited to review the report online at nhcoa.nh.gov or request a printed copy via email to nhcoa@nh.gov. The Commission’s meetings, including the next one, on Nov. 20 at the New Hampshire Hospital Association in Concord, are open to the public, with remote participation options available.

Historic spots

The New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources recently announced the addition of four notable properties to the New Hampshire State Register of Historic Places, each reflecting important aspects of community life, according to a press release. The Haynes Library in Alexandria Village, dating back to 1894, stands out with its brick exterior and North Carolina pine woodwork. The North Road Schoolhouse / District No. 4 School, a one-room schoolhouse built in 1853-54 in Danbury, now functions as a museum. The Henniker Community Center, originally built in 1834 by the First Baptist Society and known as “the Brick Church,” showcases Gothic Revival features and has been owned by the town since 2002. Lastly, Old New London Village, established in 1962, is an open-air museum that recreates a rural New Hampshire village from the mid-19th century. These additions highlight New Hampshire’s commitment to preserving its historic structures, each telling a unique story of the state’s past. Nominations for the State Register require thorough historical documentation, but listing does not restrict property owners.

Voting news

On Nov. 3, the Hillsborough South Superior Court in Concord granted a motion by the State to dismiss a lawsuit challenging a new voting law, SB 418. According to a press release, the case, 603 Forward, et al. v. David M. Scanlan, et al., was brought by several individual and organizational plaintiffs. SB 418 mandates that voters registering for the first time in New Hampshire on Election Day without adequate proof of identity must vote by “affidavit ballot.” The plaintiffs claimed this law violated various provisions of the New Hampshire Constitution. However, the court ruled that the individual plaintiffs, already registered voters in New Hampshire, lacked standing as they are not subject to the affidavit ballot requirements of SB 418 and did not have taxpayer standing. Additionally, the court determined that the organizational plaintiffs did not have standing based on the “diversion of resources” theory. This dismissal order is not final and may be reconsidered or appealed to the New Hampshire Supreme Court.

Kangaroos?

New Hampshire is considering a bill that would legalize the private ownership and farming of kangaroos, along with other animals like small tailed monkeys, raccoons, foxes, otters and skunks, according to a press release from the Free State Food Network. Proposed by State Rep. Tom Mannion, this initiative, complemented by Representative Michael Granger’s bill for kangaroo farming, aims to offer new opportunities for local food production and sustainable farming practices. Advocates of the bill argue that kangaroo farming requires significantly less water than cattle farming, making it more suitable for small-scale farms and less impactful on the environment. By adding kangaroos to the list of farmable animals, which already includes red deer, bison and elk, New Hampshire could boost its agricultural diversity, create new job opportunities and move closer to food independence, according to the release.

The Flying Yankee

The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) is currently inviting proposals for the acquisition, relocation and recommended preservation of the historic Flying Yankee train, presently situated in Lincoln. Interested parties have until 3 p.m. on Jan. 3, 2024, to submit their proposals. Detailed information, including location maps, inventory forms and draft historic covenants, can be accessed online at dot.nh.gov/projects-plans-and-programs/programs/cultural-resources, under the heading “The Flying Yankee Information and Documentation.” Additionally, there will be an opportunity to inspect the Flying Yankee on Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to noon in Lincoln, and its trucks and components from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in Twin Mountain on the same day. These inspections will be supervised by NHDOT staff.

Beverly Cotton from Weare was honored with the prestigious Andrus Award for Community Service by AARP New Hampshire at a celebratory luncheon at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester. According to a press release, this award recognizes individuals over 50 who have made significant contributions to their community, embodying AARP’s vision and mission. Cotton, a dedicated volunteer, has been actively involved with AARP since 2018, contributing in various capacities including advocacy, election support and as a member of the Speakers Bureau.

The Millyard Museum in Manchester is opening an exhibition titled “Posted! A Collection of Posters from Manchester’s Past” on Nov. 16, according to a press release. Showcasing a range of historical posters, the exhibition reveals Manchester’s history through various forms of visual communication, from health notices to movie ads. Inspired by Jeff Cuddy’s rediscovered circus posters, the exhibit is free to the public and runs until March 1, 2024.

Jenna Dinndorf, a 17-year-old from Bedford, has been awarded the Girl Scout Gold Award for her project, Grieving Through Art, in collaboration with the Manchester grief assistance group, Friends of Aine. Addressing the issue of child grief, Dinndorf’s initiative uses art for expression and healing, involving the creation and exhibition of artwork by grieving children and the distribution of Coping Cards with art and grief-coping strategies to schools across New Hampshire.

This Week 23/11/02

Big Events November 2, 2023 and beyond

Thursday, Nov. 2

It’s the final weekend to catch the musical Kinky Boots at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588). The show plays tonight at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 3, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 4, at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 5, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $28 to $49.

Thursday, Nov. 2

At tonight’s Art After Work at the Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St. in Manchester; currier.org, 669-6144) the live entertainment is Trivia Live! With Bill Seney. Art After Work runs from 5 to 8 p.m., when admission is donation-based.

Friday, Nov. 3

Discover the art of presidential impersonation at Playing POTUS, a multi-media show with Peter Funt (who has a book of the same name) featuring clips, interviews and more tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive in Manchester; tickets.anselm.edu). Tickets cost $45.

Friday, Nov. 3

The curtain rises tonight at 8 p.m. on the first of Bedford Off Broadway’s presentations of The Curious Savage, the story of an elderly widow who plans to give away her multimillion-dollar inheritance to people pursuing “foolish dreams” over the objections of her stepchildren, according to bedfordoffbroadway.com. The show runs through Sunday, Nov. 12, with shows at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets cost $15 general admission, $12 for children, students and seniors.

Saturday, Nov. 4

From Little Richard and Buddy Holly to the stars of MTV, explore Neil Burg’s 50 Years of Rock and Roll tonight at 7 p.m. at the Stockbridge Theatre (44 N. Main St. in Derry; stockbridgetheatre.showare.com). Tickets cost $30 to $35.

Save the Date! Friday, Nov. 10
Symphony NH will perform Wynton Marsalis’ “A Fiddler’s Tale” with guest artist Danny Rivera as narrator at three venues next week starting on Friday, Nov. 10, at 7:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Theatre (Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St. in Derry; stockbridgetheatre.com). The performance will move to the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org) on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 7:30 p.m. On Sunday, Nov. 12, at 3 p.m., catch the performance at the Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St., Concord). The piece is a modern interpretation of Stravinsky’s “The Soldier’s Tale” that integrates blues, jazz, tangos, rags, waltzes and classical music to narrate a contemporary story about love, greed and Faustian deals, according to Symphony NH. See symphonynh.org for ticket information.

Featured photo: Kinky Boots. Photo by AnnMarie Lidman Photography.

Quality of Life 23/11/02

Volunteer spirit

Seventy volunteers and nonprofits were honored at Volunteer NH’s 20th Spirit of NH Awards in Concord for their exceptional community service, according to a press release. Hosted by WMUR’s Sean McDonald and Erin Fehlau and streamed by ConcordTV, the ceremony recognized individuals and groups in various categories. Notable awardees included Sophia Day from Girl Scouts, Dana Hedrick from the Animal Rescue League, and the Concord Hospital End of Life Volunteer Program. Special mentions included Justin Vanasse, who received the Spirit of NH Award for resource work at Southern New Hampshire University, Doug Moorhead with a Lifetime Achievement Award for 30 years of service to Special Olympics, and Kari Karwedsky, the People’s Choice Award recipient for her work with FIRST Robotics. Volunteer NH, based in Concord, champions community-building through volunteerism in New Hampshire.

QOL score: +1

Comment: “Volunteers are the backbone of our communities,” said Gretchen Stallings, Executive Director of Volunteer NH, in the release.

Future teachers

Bedford Academy is joining forces with Southern New Hampshire University to offer its students an enhanced educational experience and pave the way for future educators, according to a press release. Aspiring teachers from SNHU will join Bedford Academy’s classrooms, acquiring hands-on experience. This partnership give teacher candidates a chance to develop their skills in a real-world setting.

QOL score: +1

Comment: Bedford Academy, a private STEAM-inspired elementary school.

Safe walking

In observance of October’s Pedestrian Safety Awareness Month, a study by Bumper highlighted the rise in pedestrian fatalities across the U.S. However, New Hampshire stands out, reporting the lowest death rate of the 50 states with 0.58 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 population in 2021, making it the safest state for pedestrians in the country. Additionally, the Granite State has seen a reduction in fatalities over recent years, from 10 in 2019 to 8 in 2021, marking a 39.58 percent decline.

QOL score: 0 (because while NH is in a good position comparatively, any pedestrian death or injury is too much)

Comment: Experts emphasized a few key precautions to prevent pedestrian accidents: pedestrians should use crosswalks, don reflective gear at night, and avoid distractions like texting. Drivers, especially those in SUVs, should yield to walkers, obey speed limits, and avoid alcohol and device distractions.

Clock o’clock

Sunday, Nov. 5, marks the end of daylight saving time. We all officially “fall back” at 2 a.m.

QOL score: –2

Comments: Because “yay” for the extra hour of sleep on Sunday but “boo” for having to remember how to access the clocks on your non-smart appliances, for the general approaching-winter post-work-day darkness and for changing clocks twice a year at all.

QOL score: 91
Net change: 0
QOL this week: 91

What’s affecting your Quality of Life here in New Hampshire?
Let us know at news@hippopress.com.

C’s start strong

The Big Story – Celtics Get Started: The NBA season kicked off last week with great expectations for the local five. After an off-season of major changes, the new-look Celtics are among the favorites to win it all.

First they’d have to get by Milwaukee, who had a major renovation by acquiring Damian Lillard and saying goodbye to Jrue Holiday (which will hurt more than they think) in a trade with Portland. To which the Celtics said thanks very much when Holiday was flipped to them a few days later.

Then comes defending champ Denver and reconfigured Kevin Durant-led Phoenix out west.

It started well with newbie Kristaps Porzingis pulling their bacon out of the fire with a big fourth quarter in the opening-day win over New York at MSG. Two nights later new starter Derrick White was the man with 28 vs. Miami at home.

All of which suggests an interesting season lies ahead.

Sports 101: Who’s the all-time leading scorer in NBA Finals?

News Item – Strength: They arguably now have the best six-player group in the league. And while I loved (most) of what Marcus Smart did, it was clear at the end of last year White was not only the consistently better player but also the better on ball defender. And while his toughness was invaluable, it was time for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to become the top leadership dogs.

News Item – Concerns – The Bench: These also were revealed in Game 1, when the bench gave them nothing (four points) in 33 minutes. And while Payton Pritchard could be ready for a bigger role, better consistency is paramount and answers for everywhere else are not obvious. So in some ways the season rides on whether Pritchard and Sam Hauser can exceed low expectations and someone (anyone) can emerge as a reliable big off the bench.

News Item – The New Guys: Besides the obvious (needed size up front), by going for33 vs. the Knicks with a strong inside defensive/shot blocking presence and surprisingly tough rebounding, Porzingis demonstrated in Game 1 what he can do — if he remains healthy.

The real surprise was seeing Holiday play a 6’9” bull like Julius Randle all night as he shot 4 for 22 in scoring just 14 points. That was impressive toughness.

The Numbers:

0, 4, 7, 8, 9 – Am I the only one who noticed Celtics starters Tatum, Holiday, Brown, Porzingis and White all have single digits on their jerseys? That’s a first in team history?

Random Thoughts:

I know he’s two years away from free agency, but the Celtics may rue the day they didn’t get White signed to an extensionby last week’s deadline.

I do love seeing Jalen Brunson, who thinks he’s smarter than everyone else Dallas owner Mark Cuban let walk to NY, ranked 32nd ahead of Kyrie Irving’s 34 in ESPN’s Top 100 Players. All while making $10 million less per than Cuban pays the overrated, team-killing Kyrie.

Continuing on with those ESPN’s Top 100 rankings. The guy who had Grant Williams, who wasn’t even in the Celtics’ regular rotation from March on, rated over the not-ranked Horford and Brogdon must be on some really strong recreational medication.

Porzingis at 62, Klay Thompson at 41, Holiday at 23 and Brown at 19 seem lower-ranked than they should. I’ve got JB cracking the Top 15.

Sports 101 Answer: L.A. Laker Jerry West is the NBA Finals top scorer with 1,679 points, followed by LeBron James (1,562) and Kareem Abdul Jabbar (1,317).

Final Thoughts – The Blockbuster Deals: I loved the Porzingis-Smart trade immediately. But not so much with the Portland deal. And it isn’t because by giving up Rob Williams, Sixth Man of the Year Malcolm Brogdon and two first picks they overpaid for a 33-year-old point guard. It’s that they did so at the expense of their depth because it gives them zero insurance against a big injury to the not durable Porzingis and in the second game of the 12 back-to-back games Horford will not play in. But even more so after finding the long-term replacement for the 38-year-old Horford, it put them right back in the same position of needing to find his replacement with less trade material and more salary cap obstacles than before.

Brad Stevens hasn’t missed on one deal yet, so he gets the benefit of the doubt. But the feeling that gnaws at me is he’s taking a big long- and short-term risk to go for it right now over maybe having both without the second trade.

Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 23/11/02

NH efforts

After a shooting in Lewiston, Maine, which resulted in 18 fatalities, New Hampshire’s Department of Safety actively monitored the situation and provided significant assistance, according to a press release. The state dispatched its SWAT team, shuttled blood donations and offered other critical resources. Maine authorities led a manhunt for the suspect, who was later found deceased in a trailer at a former workplace. Gov. Chris Sununu issued the following statement: “Grateful for the efforts of Maine State Police who led the manhunt to bring closure to this challenging search. Thanks to the men and women of our own New Hampshire State Police for their tireless assistance. It is time for the communities in Maine to heal and I hope the families of this tragic situation can heal in peace.”

Biden write-in

In an unprecedented move, New Hampshire Democrats, including numerous state lawmakers and prominent figures like filmmaker Ken Burns, have initiated a write-in campaign supporting President Joe Biden for the state’s presidential primary, NHPR reported. This comes after Biden opted not to list his name on the New Hampshire ballot, following the Democratic National Committee’s decision to prioritize South Carolina as the first primary state. The “Write-In Biden” website guides voters on the write-in process and critiques the DNC’s decision as “misguided.” Despite Biden’s notable lead in local Democratic polls, Minnesota Congressman Dean Phillips has entered the fray, emphasizing the younger generation’s desire for alternative nominees. The write-in initiative marks a historic moment, as campaigns of this nature targeting a sitting president during the New Hampshire primary have never occurred before, according to the article.

New AUSA

U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young has announced the appointment of Tiffany Scanlon as an Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) to handle domestic terrorism and violent crimes in the District of New Hampshire. AUSA Scanlon brings with her a wealth of experience from her tenure since 2012 at the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, where she worked in various units, including the Major Felony and Gang Units. Throughout her career she has prosecuted numerous severe criminal cases, such as homicides and armed robberies. In May 2023 the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Hampshire was allocated two new attorney positions, with one focused on Civil Rights yet to be filled.

School security

The New Hampshire Department of Education has opened its third round of applications for the Security Action for Education (SAFE) grants program, according to a press release. This program will allocate $10 million to district and public charter schools to bolster school security, with a focus on enhancing access control, emergency alerting, and surveillance. Although $13.9 million has been awarded in previous rounds, schools that haven’t received grants before will be given priority in this round. Applications can be submitted to the Public School Infrastructure Commission, and the maximum award for any school will not surpass $100,000. Award decisions will likely be made in the first quarter of 2024.

Honorees

U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan honored Dr. Reiko Johnson of Newfields and Dr. Nathan Swanson of Durham as October’s Granite Staters of the Month for their contributions to the community, according to a press release. Dr. Johnson founded Volunteers in Medicine of New Hampshire (VIM-NH) to cater to uninsured and underinsured patients. Recognizing a need for dental care among these patients, she collaborated with Dr. Swanson to organize VIM-NH’s inaugural Dental Day of Caring. The event witnessed volunteer dentists providing 19 extractions, 10 fillings and one root canal, donating services worth $11,531. Sen. Hassan’s “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative acknowledges remarkable New Hampshire residents for their community contributions.

FEMA funds

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded New Hampshire more than $26 million in reimbursements for Covid-19-related costs, according to a press release. Of this, a grant of $24,410,106 will be directed to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for staffing vaccination sites, having facilitated the vaccination of around 36,727 vulnerable individuals. Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital will receive $1,770,931 to cover expenses tied to a Covid-19 testing system and related public service announcements. In addition, the state will receive nearly $1.4 million for renting and operating warehouse space from April 2020 to July 2022, which stored and distributed essential Covid-19 supplies. To date, FEMA’s Public Assistance program has reimbursed New Hampshire more than $286 million for pandemic expenses.

In Pembroke, more than 50 “No Coal No Gas” activists rallied by the Merrimack River, urging Granite Shore Power to transition from coal to solar energy at the Merrimack Station. Several were arrested after clashing with Bow Police on trespassing claims.

The Greater Manchester Chamber (GMC) reports that more than 20 nonprofits will participate in the “Find Your Cause” event organized by the Manchester Young Professionals (MYP). Presented by Southern New Hampshire University, this event, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 29, at the Rex Theatre, aims to connect young professionals in Manchester with nonprofit leaders and opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to interact directly with each organization before the nonprofits present their two-minute pitches. Registration is available on Eventbrite, and nonprofits interested in joining can contact the GMC for more information.

The Nashua Public Library will host a Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Chandler Wing, according to a press release. Inspired by a previous Salute to Service display, this year’s event will feature live music, miniature military vehicle displays and a preview of a WWII oral history project. Attendees can engage in crafting buttons and cards for veterans. Veteran organizations will be present to provide resources. Visit nashualibrary.org.

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