Category: News

News & Notes 23/10/12

Friday eats

In September 2023, the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester (BGCM) announced its “Free Food Friday” initiative, offering club families complimentary groceries every week at its Union Street Clubhouse. According to a press release, this effort, in partnership with Hannaford and the New Hampshire Food Bank, aims to combat food insecurity in New Hampshire by providing essentials like produce, eggs, dairy and meats. With food laid out in the clubhouse lobby every Friday, families can easily collect supplies, ensuring they have ample food for the forthcoming week. During the summer of 2023, 353 families benefited from this program. For more information or to support BGCM’s endeavors, visit mbgcnh.org.

Nashua candidates

The Nashua Public Library (2 Court St. in Nashua; nashualibrary.org) and League of Women Voters NH — Greater Nashua will hold candidate forums at the library for the city’s alderman-at-large, ward aldermen and board of education positions. Meet alderman-at-large candidates on Thursday, Oct. 12, at 6:30 p.m.; ward 1, 2 and 6 alderman candidates on Thursday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m. followed by wards 7, 8 and 9 at 7:45 p.m., and board of education candidates on Thursday, Oct. 26, at 6:30 p.m., according to a press release. At the forums, candidates will read opening statements and then take audience questions, via the moderator, the release said. Forums will also air on Nashua Public Television Channel 6, the release said.

New hire

Rebecca Fredrickson, a nonprofit veteran with over 15 years of experience, has joined Catholic Charities NH as a Major Gifts Officer, according to a press release. In her new role, Fredrickson will work on connecting supporters with their charitable passions, focusing on critical issues such as poverty, homelessness, mental health, and the aging population in New Hampshire. She will also contribute to the development of the organization’s major gifts strategy as Catholic Charities NH expands its presence in the state.

Sustainability studies

Plymouth State University (PSU) has initiated a series of courses and lectures as a part of its sustainability studies program, introduced in fall 2022, funded by a $56,867 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). According to a press release, a foundational course, Conversations in Sustainability, offers a multidisciplinary approach to sustainability, currently led by Associate Professor Laura Tilghman, Ph.D. This course, among others, is interwoven with the NEH Spotlight on the Humanities in Sustainability Lecture Series, which includes multiple events through December 2024. Additionally, the program will introduce an experiential class in fall 2024 and another centered on sustainability’s link to public health and humanities in spring 2025. The initiative aligns with Plymouth State’s interdisciplinary Cluster Learning Model and its focus on environmental education.

Pet paintings

The Salem Animal Rescue League, in collaboration with the Arts Academy of New Hampshire, is bringing back its unique fundraiser for its third year: custom pet portraits crafted by students of the Academy. From realistic renditions to imaginative interpretations, each portrait captures the essence of your pet in a distinct style, according to a press release. A donation of $25 gets you a digital portrait, while $50 provides both a digital and the original piece (with options for pick-up or mail delivery for an added cost). Orders are open until Oct. 17. Visit sarlnh.org.

Funds for breast cancer

Merrimack County Savings Bank sponsors the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event on Sunday, Oct. 15, at Memorial Field in Concord. For the 8th consecutive year, The Merrimack will act as the Survivorship Sponsor of Survivor Place, having donated over $80,000 during this period, according to a press release. Survivor Place is a dedicated zone at the event where cancer survivors and thrivers can connect and share experiences. This year also sees the introduction of the Tribute Garden, which will display pink pinwheels purchased in homage to those who have battled breast cancer. The event, which annually raises about $500,000 for the American Cancer Society, is an avenue to fund research and provide cancer patients with necessary care and support.

Conservation awards

During its annual meeting on Sept. 16, NH Audubon announced its 2023 conservation award recipients. According to a press release, Karen Bennett of Antrim received the Tudor Richards Award for her impactful conservation efforts and work with Good Forestry in the Granite State. George W. Gavutis Jr. of Kensington secured the Goodhue-Elkins Award for his extensive contributions to bird knowledge and conservation in New Hampshire. The John Thalheimer Volunteer Award was given to Sandra Bowles of Bow for her dedicated gardening contributions at the McLane Center, especially her work on the pollinator gardens since 2018.

The Pembroke Town Library, in collaboration with the Pembroke Historical Society, is hosting a virtual Zoom presentation titled “Family Stories: How and Why to Remember and Tell Them” on Thursday, Oct.19, at 7 p.m. Jo Radner, a storyteller and oral historian, will lead the interactive session and guide participants on effective techniques to recall, develop and narrate personal stories. The event, sponsored by the NH Humanities Council, is free to the public. Register at pembroke-library.org.

Flag Hill Distillery & Winery in Lee is hosting a 10 Year Bourbon Release Party on Saturday, Nov. 4, to mark the launch of its 10-year-aged bourbon. According to a press release, the Prohibition era-themed event will start at 4 p.m., with a cocktail hour followed by a bourbon-inspired dinner, with opportunities to taste the bourbon, interact with the distillers and enjoy live music, campfire stories and line dancing. An after-party by candlelight will follow. Tickets cost $85. Visit flaghill.com.

SEE Science Center will host a Fall Fusion Festival on Saturday, Oct. 14, from noon to 3 p.m. at Arms Park in Manchester. The event focuses on art, science and inclusion and will feature the 2nd annual Disability Justice Parade, according to a newsletter. Attendees can view a partial solar eclipse at the designated SEE Science Center viewing area and witness the unveiling of Manchester’s newest murals. The Ooch Experience will provide music, and food trucks will be onsite. The festival is free and open to the public. Visit see-sciencecenter.org.

This Week 23/10/05

Big Events September 21, 2023 and beyond

Friday, Oct. 6
Learn about eclipses tonight as part of the Super Stellar Friday program at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (2 Institute Drive in Concord; starhop.com, 271-7827). The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the presentation by Dave McDonald, New Hampshire Astronomical Society Director and the center’s senior educator, begins at 7 p.m. He will discuss both the partial eclipse in October and the total eclipse on April 8, the website said. Admission costs $12 for adults, $11 for 62+ and ages 13 through college, $9 for ages 3 to 12 and free for children under 2, the website said.

Saturday, Oct. 7
Comedian Juston McKinney offers two opportunities to get some laughs today at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588). McKinney will perform at 5 and 8 p.m. Tickets to either show cost $32.50. Find more funny in the Comedy This Week listing on page 37.

Saturday, Oct. 7
The 39th Annual Apple Harvest Day will take place in downtown Dover today from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature more than 300 vendors including a variety of food vendors as well as live music. The 15th Annual Apple Harvest Day 5K Road Race will be held at 8:30 a.m. at 25 St. Thomas St. in Dover. Registration is $30 for adults age 21 and over, $20 for runners under the age of 21. After the race stick around for some North County Apple Cider. See dovernh.org/apple-harvest-day-5k-road-race. Looking for more races to get you out and running? Find our listing of Fall 5Ks in the Sept. 21 issue (the story starts on page 10); go to hippopress.com.

Saturday, Oct. 7
The New Hampshire Wool Arts Tour takes place today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with happenings on five farms (Spinner Farm in Deering; Glory Be Farm in Bennington; Brimstone Hollow in Hancock; Ten Talents at La Bergerie Dumas in Greenfield, and Maple Lane Farm in Lyndeborough) including demonstrations of creating yarn, hay rides, music, live animals, food, an opportunity to meet fiber artists and fiber from a variety of animals for sale, according to woolartstournh.com.

Saturday, Oct. 7
Lucas Gallo opens for the Adam Ezra Group tonight at 8 p.m. at the Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com). Doors open at 7 p.m.; tickets in advance cost $35.75 for general admission, $48.75 on the balcony ($5 more purchased at the door). Find more concerts this week and beyond on our concert listings on page 38.

Monday, Oct. 9
If today is a day off for you, take a rare Monday visit to the Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St. in Manchester; currier.org, 669-6144), which is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for students and 65+, $5 for ages 13 to 17 and free for kids under 13. Exhibits currently on display include “Fabricating Modernism: Prints From the School of Paris,” “Celebrating the Art and Life of Tomie DePaola” and “Distant Conversations: Ella Walker and Betty Woodman.”

Save the Date! Wednesday, Oct. 12, through Oct. 15
The New Hampshire Film Festival takes place Thursday, Oct. 12, through Sunday, Oct. 15, at screening spaces throughout Portsmouth. The lineup will feature more than 100 feature films, documentaries and shorts — including the documentary Everything to Entertain You: The Story of Video Headquarters about a Keene video store. See nhfilmfestival.com.

Featured photo: Courtesy photo.

Quality of Life 23/10/05

On-the-job training

During a routine shift on a Sunday morning, Sept. 17, NHTI Paramedic Emergency Medicine student Timothy St. Germain and his paramedic partner, NHTI PEM alumna Brittany Lamontagne, found themselves in an unexpected situation. According to a press release, they were responding to a call in Concord for a woman in labor needing transport to a local hospital and they soon realized that the baby couldn’t wait. St. Germain and Lamontagne’s training kicked in, and they delivered the baby without complications, the release said. What makes this timing remarkable is that the NHTI Paramedic Emergency Medicine program had been studying obstetrics with simulated childbirth scenarios for the past two weeks, making it almost feel like a planned “final exam,” the release said.

QOL score: +1
Comment: Both mom and baby girl are healthy, and St. Germain credits the program’s training for making the situation feel almost like second nature.

Food for families

The New Hampshire Food Bank, a program of Catholic Charities New Hampshire, is partnering with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to launch a joint initiative aimed at increasing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment across the state. According to a press release, this collaborative effort seeks to raise awareness of SNAP, a federal program designed to combat food insecurity by providing funds to lower-income families and households for food purchases. While nearly 40,000 New Hampshire households are already enrolled in SNAP, the New Hampshire Food Bank estimates that around seven percent of the state’s residents still experience food insecurity, highlighting the need for increased participation.

QOL score: +1
Comment: The partnership also aims to dispel common misconceptions about SNAP eligibility, such as the belief that it’s only available to families or individuals who are not employed.

Millions and billions

The New Hampshire Lottery billboard visible as you’re heading south on Interstate 293 through Manchester got an upgrade recently. The new billboard was updated with, among other things, LED lighting, which is brighter and more efficient, and the ability to note whether a current Powerball and Mega Millions jackpot is in millions or in billions (such as with the projected $1.2 billion Powerball jackpot for the Oct. 4 drawing), according to a New Hampshire Lottery spokesperson. The billion-plus jackpots were said to have “busted” the old billboard, with the amount stuck at $999 million even when the jackpot climbed over a billion, the spokesperson reported. Now, we can fantasize with numerical specificity.

QOL score: +1
Comments: Meanwhile, WMUR reported that someone who purchased a Powerball ticket at a Price Chopper in Keene for the Sept. 30 drawing won a $50,000 prize.

QOL score: 87
Net change: +3
QOL this week: 90

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

Pats bring down Jets

The Big Story – Sox Done for 2023: It was a busy week, where the end of the Patriots dynasty and Mac Jones hit a new low in an embarrassing 38-3 loss to Dallas and the Celtics did another blockbuster trade that probably made them worse while getting a really good player in Jrue Holiday. But the biggest story is the end of another dismal Red Sox season and where they go from here, which is our focus today.

Sports 101: Who holds the record for most relief appearances in one season with 106?

News Item – 2023 Red Sox Notables:
Triston Casas: He was the high point of 2023. Here’s how the power hitting rookie stands up to the great Carl Yastrzemski’s first season. Yaz stats followed by TC. Age: 21–23. G: 148–132. Avg: .266–.263. R: 70–66. 2B: 31–21. 3B: 6–2. HR: 11–24. RBI: 80–65.

Alex Verdugo: After ridiculously saying he was “snubbed” for the All-Star game, he hit a robust .225 since to show everyone how wrong they were.

Astonishingly just one pitcher, Brayan Bello, matched the 157 innings Dick Radatz pitched as closer in his dominant 1964 season — 157 IP, with 181 K’s, 16-9, 29 saves and 2.29.

All-Name MVP: Goes to Sox minor league pitcher of the year Wikelman Gonzalez, who went 9-4 with a 3.96 ERA in A-ball.

Alex Cora: Amazingly, with him returning, he joins the retiring Tito Francona as the only Sox managers in the last 60 years to last for five years according to Boston Globe baseball writer Alex Speier.

News Item – 2023 Baseball Notables:
Ronald Acuna: His sensational season included batting .337, leading the majors in runs scored with 149 and becoming the fifth player to have 40 homers and 40 stolen bases in a season.

Freddie Freeman: The Dodgers slugger came up one double short of being the first with 60 since 1936, when famers Ducky Medwick (64) and Charlie Gehringer (60) did it.

Zach Greinke: If this is it for the 2009 Cy Young winner he didn’t go out in style. By going 2-15 with a 5.06 ERA for the Royals, he whittled down his career winning percentage in 2023 from 61.3 to 58.9. He’ll also retire 23 strikeouts short of 3,000.

Adam Wainwright: Despite his epic struggle to get his 200th career win, he got it in the final week.

Numbers:
1 – 20-game winner in 2023, Atlanta’s Spencer Strider at 20-5 with a 3.86 ERA.
9 – shockingly low number of .300 hitters across the majors.
93 – homers by Kyle Schwarber since Chaim Bloom let him walk after 2021. With 47 (and 104 RBI) this year to become the first to hit under .200 (.197) while clubbing 40 bombs.

… Of the Season Awards
Branch Rickey Award – Alex Anthopoulos: Not only did he build the power-laden Braves, who hit a record-tying 307 homers, he did the opposite of Rickey’s famous line that he’d rather trade a guy a year too early than a year too late by replacing a reigning MVP in Freeman a year ago with an even better first baseman in Matt Olson (from Oakland), who led the majors in homers and RBI with 54 and 139.

Maxwell Smart ‘Missed It By That Much’ Award – David J. Long: No, not the Dolphins linebacker, but your not so humble scribe, who said in this space on April 6 the Sox would finish last in the AL East at 77-85. Which is exactly how they’d have finished if Tanner Houck hadn’t stabbed me in the back by finally pitching decently in Game 162. Instead it’s 78-84.

News Item – Looking Ahead: Most interesting rumor mill name for Boston Red Sox president of baseball operations is Sam Fuld, both because he’s from Durham (N.H.) and because it would be the latest example of John Henry’s indecisive leadership. Nothing against Fuld, but he’s the top lieutenant of Dave Dombrowski in Philadelphia, whom Henry foolishly fired to Tampa Bay-ize things by hiring Bloom in 2019. Now with him gone, will the fickle owner zig-zag back to the free-spending, trade-the-prospects style of the Dombrowski era? One can hope.

Free Agent – Shohei Ohtani: After getting zero from the $150 million Chris Sale got before they knew if his arm was OK, how can the Sox hand Ohtani $500 million until they know if his is OK?

Sports 101 Answer: To Mike Marshall in 1974, Radatz of ’64 was a sissy. He pitched an astonishing 208.1 innings in 106 relief appearances while going 15-12 with 143 K’s, 21 saves and a 2.42 ERA.

Final Thought – Tim Wakefield: Raise a glass to the honorable Red Sox lifer who lost his battle with brain cancer on Sunday. He meets his maker after winning a third most in franchise history 186 games. RIP.

Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 23/10/05

Primary polling

According to a recent poll conducted by the Saint Anselm College Survey Center, former President Donald Trump maintains a significant lead among likely voters in the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary, with 45 percent expressing their preference for Trump on the ballot test. This represents a 30-point lead over his closest challenger, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, who has surged into second place with 15 percent support following the first Republican presidential candidate debate, according to the Sept 25. press release. Haley is now the leading alternative to Trump and outpaces former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie among respondents with an unfavorable impression of Trump, the release said. Meanwhile, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has seen his support decline by 18 points since March and now trails Haley with 11 percent. The poll also highlights the polarization within the primary electorate between supporters and detractors of Trump, with implications for the eventual nominee’s ability to challenge President Joe Biden in a general election matchup.

Rising star

Michael Newell, RN, a home care nurse at Granite VNA, has been named “Young Person of the Year” by Stay Work Play in its 14th Annual Rising Stars Awards. According to a press release, Newell joined Granite VNA in 2020 and participated in their Home Health Nurse Residency Program, where he learned the intricacies of home care nursing and later became a mentor for the program, guiding and supporting new nurses. In addition to his role as a mentor, Newell provides in-home care to a diverse patient population, demonstrating a commitment to compassionate care and support for every patient. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of New Hampshire and aspires to become a nurse educator in the future.

Maternal health

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has officially launched the Task Force on Maternal Mental Health, an initiative co-led by the Office on Women’s Health and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and established following the bipartisan TRIUMPH for New Moms Act, a law co-sponsored by New Hampshire’s Sen. Maggie Hassan and Sen. Tom Tillis of North Carolina. The goal is to address and support new mothers grappling with postpartum depression and other mental health challenges, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance, according to a press release from Hassan’s office. “New moms struggling with postpartum depression or other mental health challenges need to know that help is out there — and how to get it,” Sen. Hassan said in the release. “I am glad that following our bipartisan law, the administration today launched the Task Force on Maternal Mental Health, and I look forward to seeing how it works to get more new moms the support that they critically need.”

Commission member

Suzanne Brunelle, a shareholder at Devine Millimet, has been appointed as the attorney-appointed member of the State of New Hampshire Real Estate Commission by Gov. Sununu, according to a press release. In her new role, Brunelle will contribute to the commission’s efforts to establish safeguards and regulations within the licensing process for real estate salespersons and brokers in New Hampshire. With over 30 years of experience in the legal profession, Brunelle has provided legal counsel on various aspects of real estate matters, including land development, commercial and residential property financing, acquisition, sale, leasing, permitting and more.

Rural maternity

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon has been awarded a federal grant totaling $991,467 as part of the Health Resources & Services Administration’s Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) Program. The grant, spanning four years, will support the North Country Maternity Network, a collaborative effort involving hospitals, community-based services, and state agency partners aimed at bolstering maternal health infrastructure in New Hampshire’s North Country region. RMOMS addresses the challenges faced by women in rural communities when accessing adequate obstetric care. The grant will be used to fund various initiatives, including standardizing prenatal screening, implementing evidence-based obstetrics pathways and improving site-based telehealth for comprehensive community care.

More Medicaid

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services has reinstated Medicaid for more than 3,100 individuals, including around 1,350 children, aligning with new federal eligibility guidance, NHPR reported. This reinstatement was prompted by a directive from the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services to review and rectify any inadvertent terminations and align state processes with federal guidelines. This initiative will cover any eligible medical bills incurred during the period of disenrollment and will also help individuals understand if they can retain their coverage without going through a complex eligibility redetermination process. The state is launching further efforts to ensure access to Medicaid services and is exploring more opportunities to expand access to Medicaid-funded health services in schools, according to the article.

The Dover Public Library will host a presentation titled “Hope for Shantytown: A History of Dover Housing Authority” on Wednesday, Oct. 11, at 6:30 p.m. Local historian Mark Leno will use historical photos to showcase the Dover Housing Authority’s impact on the city’s development over the past 70 years. The presentation will cover the organization’s evolution, its role in downtown Dover’s urban renewal efforts and milestones in providing housing for Dover residents. The event will be available for in-person and virtual attendance, with sign-up required for online access. It is free and open to the public. Visit library.dover.nh.gov.

The Upper Room, a family resource center in Derry (36 Tsienneto Road, is hosting the Crossroads Co-Parenting course on Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., for parents and caregivers raising children together. This course offers insights into maintaining children’s love for parents, avoiding involving children in conflicts, navigating personal challenges and fostering effective communication. Interested participants can register for classes online at urteachers.org.

The Nashua Transit System, along with other transit systems in New Hampshire, is observing Community Transportation Month throughout October to raise awareness about various transportation options, including Nashua’s city bus system, paratransit services and alternatives like biking and walking. This initiative includes a collaboration with Commute Smart NH, an organization offering ride-sharing services and challenges for riders in October. The celebration aligns with CommuteSmart NH’s Buses, Bikes and Brooms Commuter Challenge and the National Week Without Driving Challenge, aiming to spotlight essential but often overlooked services.

Quality of Life 23/09/28

Summer of Manchester!

The City of Manchester celebrated an exceptionally active summer this year, reporting unprecedented levels of participation in city programs and utilization of city facilities. According to a press release, Summer 2023 saw record reservations for athletic fields and courts, an all-time high in Tennis in the Parks participation and increased attendance in various recreational programs, totaling 2,693 reservations and 52,475 visits to aquatic facilities alone. In addition to the record-breaking numbers, more than 30,981 rounds of golf were played at the Derryfield Golf Course since its season opening on April 7.

QOL score: +1
Comment: “The diversity of recreation offerings in Manchester is truly special,” Chief of Parks & Rec Mark Gomez said in the release. “It’s gratifying to see so many folks at our pools, splash pads, hard courts, baseball diamonds, golf course, disc golf complex and playgrounds. Clearly, the summer rains did not dampen people’s enthusiasm to get outside and have fun.”

No new wheels for us

A recent study by JW Surety Bonds, a leading provider of bonding and insurance solutions, has highlighted some unfavorable standings for New Hampshire in the national car buying landscape. The methodology involved analyzing search volumes for car-related terms over the past 12 months in all 50 states and the 50 most populous U.S. cities, and examining 254 cities for various business types related to the automotive industry, focusing on the number of institutions per capita and their average Yelp ratings. According to the results, Nashua was identified as the second-worst city in the U.S. for car buying, and New Hampshire ranked as the least favorable state, at No. 50, for purchasing a car in the nation.

QOL score: -1
Comment: The study further revealed that New Hampshire was among the 10 states exhibiting the least interest in car buying, at No. 41.

Top marks

Three schools in New Hampshire — Riddle Brook School in Bedford, Mary C. Dondero Elementary School in Portsmouth, and Rye Elementary School in Rye — have been recognized with the prestigious 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools award by the New Hampshire Department of Education for their outstanding teaching and learning. These schools are among 353 schools nationwide to earn this esteemed recognition for their exceptional achievements and their dedication to education. State Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut and U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona praised the schools for their commitment to fostering academic excellence and nurturing positive learning environments. They attributed the success to the collective efforts of the community, diligent staff, effective leadership and the collaborative spirit amongst staff, students and the community.

QOL score: +1
Comment: The awards coincide with the 40th anniversary of the National Blue Ribbon Schools program, a longstanding tradition of recognizing educational excellence across the United States.

QOL score: 86
Net change: +1
QOL this week: 87

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

This Week 23/09/28

Big Events September 21, 2023 and beyond

Thursday, Sept. 28
The Deerfield Fair runs today through Sunday, Oct. 1, at the Deerfield Fair grounds (34 Stage Road in Deerfield). The fair is open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets cost $12 for adults (13 and older). Kids 12 and younger get in free. Discounted entry for seniors is available at the gate on Thursday and Friday; military is free with identification. Ride special wristband days are Friday (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $30) and Sunday (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $35). Tickets for rides cost $1.50 each, $30 for a sheet of 25 and $40 for a sheet of 40.

In addition to the rides, the fair features live music in multiple locations throughout each day; agricultural and animal shows, demonstrations and competitions; strolling entertainers; the Miss Deerfield Fair scholarship pageant, and concessions. See deerfieldfair.com.

Friday, Sept. 29
The Milford Area Players’ The House on Haunted Hill at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford) continues with shows tonight through Oct. 1, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Visit milfordareaplayers.org. Find more theatrical productions in the Arts section, which starts on page 18.

Friday, Sept. 29
Catch the family-friendly magic show “Magic Rocks” with illusionist Leon Etienne tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Palace Theatre (80 Amherst St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588). Tickets cost $35.

Saturday, Sept. 30
To Share Brewing Co. (720 Union St. in Manchester; tosharebrewing.com) will hold Oktoberfest 2023 today from 1 to 9 p.m. The day will feature live music, brats topped with kraut, sales of a To Share Drinking Boot, stein-holding competition and more. Find more food happenings in the Food section, which starts on page 26.

Sunday, Oct. 1
The 18th Annual Kelly Mann Memorial 5K Run & 3K Walk will step off today at 9 a.m. at Mine Falls/Nashua High School South (36 Riverside St., Nashua). Day-of registration and sign-in opens at 7:30 a.m. The cost to register for adults is $25 and for youth (12 and under) is $12.50. Proceeds will directly supports Bridges. See bridgesnh.org/kellymannmemorialrace. Looking for more road races to get you lacing up your sneakers this fall? Check out last week’s (Sept. 21) issue of the Hippo at hippopress.com (scroll down for the e-edition) to find the listing of fall and early winter races; the cover story starts on page 10.

Tuesday, Oct. 3
Andrew North & The Rangers host an open mic tonight at Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com) at 7 p.m. Come early and bring your instrument to sign up to take the stage yourself (sign-ups start at 6:30 p.m.); bring chord sheets and Andrew North & The Rangers can even be your backing band, according to the website. Find more places to hear local bands and performers in the Music This Week listing, which starts on page 34.

Save the Date! Wednesday, Oct. 18
See Moonstruck (PG, 1987) on Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m. at the Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com) to celebrate 90 years of what was once the Concord Theatre and is now the Bank of NH Stage. The event is free and will be hosted by Laura Knoy; reserve a spot by getting tickets online.

Featured photo: Courtesy photo.

Pats bring down Jets

The Big Story – Patriots Stave Off Disaster: The Pats took Sunday’s must-win game vs. the Jets in New York. It was their 15th straight win over the New Yawkas and first of the season. But it was another struggle by an offense that is averaging just 17 points per game and was aided by the Jets’ having to use the inept Zach Wilson at QB. Still, as they say, a win is a win.

Sports 101: Atlanta’s Ronald Acuna just became the fifth player to hit 40 homers and steal 40 bases in the same season. Name the other four. Hint: All were done after 1980.

News Item – Dolphins Offense Explodes: Not sure which was more impressive by the Miami Dolphins offense on Sunday: (1) running for an astonishing 350 yards on the ground. (2) racking up a stratospheric 726 yards in total offense, or (3) scoring the second most points ever in an NFL regular-season game during their 70-20 beatdown of Denver. In any event, it put De’Von Achane 203 rushing yards and Tua Tagovailoa 306 passing yards and four TDs into the day’s ho-hum category.

News Item – Mookie Betts: He set an MLB record for most RBIs by a lead-off hitter when his two-run eighth-inning double in L.A.’s 7-0 win vs. San Francisco Saturday gave him 105 for the year.

Other Alumni News: When the Dodgers and Tigers hooked up last week JD Martinez homered both times he faced 2018 championship teammate Eduardo Rodriguez.

JC Jackson: Looks like the Chargers are having major second thoughts after giving the former Patriot DB an $85 million deal two years ago, as he was a healthy scratch vs. Minnesota Sunday after an awful first season with L.A. ended early with a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee.

The Numbers:
3 – Patriots cornerbacks named Jones (Jonathan, Marcus and Jack) who sat out that Jets game with a variety of injuries.
4 – NFL record field goals of over 50 yards in one game by Colts kicker Matt Gay as they slid by the Ravens 22-19 in OT.
25 – catches for Rams all-name team rookie receiver Puka Nacua in his first two NFL games after the fifth-round pick out of BYU had 15 in Week 2 vs. the 49ers. Both are all-time rookie records.

… Of the Week Awards
Player of the Week: When you play for the 49ers and tie any record held by Jerry Rice it’s a big deal. Especially when it’s touchdown-related. That’s what Christian McCaffrey did when he scored one in his 12th straight game as San Francisco beat the G-Men 30-12 on Thursday to tie JR’s record. I don’t think it’s a coincidence SF has won 13 straight regular-season games as he’s done that, do you?

Random Thoughts:
The worst thing that could have happened to the Patriots was seeing Dallas sleepwalk through Sunday’s trap game loss to the moribund Arizona Cardinals, because it likely means they’ll be extra focused when the Pats come to town this Sunday.

After the 42-6 butt-kicking Oregon gave Colorado on Saturday, guess the coaching Hall of Fame induction for Coach Prime is on hold.

Got to tell you, while I know it’s the color of the Irish, I hate when Notre Dame goes with the green jerseys, as they did in their 17-14 loss to Ohio State on Saturday. The traditional dark blue with gold pants are classic college football uniforms.

Also, liked seeing them lose to local lad Ryan Day’s sixth-ranked Buckeyes.

Sports 101 Answer: The other 40-40 guys are Jose Canseco (1998), Barry Bonds (1996), Alex Rodriquez (1998) and Alfonso Soriano (2006).

Final Thought: No, No On Snell’s No-No Bid: I know I sound like Peter Finch throwing open the window and shouting “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” in the movie Network. Especially since I know it won’t change how baseball now treats no-hitters as no big deal. It happened again in San Diego last week, where for the second time in the last three years Padres hurler Blake Snell was yanked after seven innings with a no-hitter in progress. What made it even worse was hearing Snell being fine with it in saying, “I understand my body really well. I understand the risk/reward of injury, with pushing it,” and “I’m just not going to push for that.” Especially since it likely was his last start for the already eliminated Padres, so he has all winter to rest up from “pushing it.” What an awesome competitor.

I reject being called a dinosaur for saying this because the practice defies common sense. If the objective is to win, why would you take out a guy who hasn’t been touched for seven innings over the uncertainty of a new pitcher, like say Padres closer Josh Hader, who gave up two hits upon entering the game in the ninth? Worst of all, it robs the game (and its fans) of the drama of seeing if someone can finish off the thrill of pitching a no-no. BOOOO!

Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 23/09/28

New commish

DJ Bettencourt has been confirmed as the Commissioner of the New Hampshire Insurance Department, following his nomination by Gov. Chris Sununu and subsequent approval by the Executive Council, according to a press release. Prior to this role, Bettencourt had been serving as the Deputy Commissioner since January 2021. In his new capacity, Bettencourt has outlined several key priorities, including achieving mental health parity, ensuring affordable coverage for small businesses, and supporting nonprofits in obtaining essential insurance coverage. He has emphasized his commitment to reinforcing operational efficiency within the department and maintaining a consumer-centric and competitive insurance marketplace in alignment with the department’s mission to uphold public interest through diligent enforcement of state insurance laws.

Grant for UNH

The University of New Hampshire (UNH) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are expanding their long-standing partnership with the creation of a new Center of Excellence for Operational Ocean and Great Lakes Mapping, according to a press release. U.S. Sens. Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan, along with Reps. Annie Kuster and Chris Pappas, announced the initiative, which builds on a 24-year collaboration in ocean and Great Lakes mapping. Funded by an $8 million NOAA grant, the new center, on UNH’s campus, aims to fortify advancements in ocean mapping, facilitating safe marine transportation and enhanced understanding of coastal hazards. It will act as a nexus for academia, industry and government and will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized spaces for storing and managing equipment and vessels. The center will focus on practical hydrographic training, providing technical expertise and fostering partnerships to transition ocean mapping research to operations, aiding in a range of applications from environmental management to emergency response.

Trees for Manchester

U.S. Sens. Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan, along with Reps. Annie Kuster and Chris Pappas, have unveiled a $2.5 million federal grant through the U.S. Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry Program for Manchester and Lebanon, stemming from the Inflation Reduction Act. The grant prioritizes environmental conservation with a spotlight on tree planting and maintenance to address climate change and intense heat. Manchester, partnering with Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) and The Nature Conservancy in New Hampshire (TNC), will benefit from $2.2 million toward its Urban Forest Equity Planning and Implementation project. This project emphasizes equitable tree planting, particularly in underserved neighborhoods, urban forest resilience, workforce expansion in urban forestry, community participation in forestry decisions, and methods to alleviate severe urban heat. Concurrently, Lebanon’s Green Streets Initiative will be granted $244,275.

STEM in schools

The New Hampshire Department of Education is investing in the future of STEM, allocating a total of $713,601 in grants to 77 schools for the development of robotics programs, according to a press release. Commissioner Frank Edelblut is optimistic that these programs will not only spark interest in STEM careers among students in public and charter schools but also foster essential life- and work-related skills. Schools will use these funds to expand current programs or create new ones, covering costs associated with robotics kits, competition fees, transportation and other related expenses. Grants for each school vary, ranging from $2,000 to $14,850, tailored to meet individual school needs. Beyond robotics, some schools, like the Cooperative Middle School in Stratham, are diversifying into drone programs, enriching students’ learning experiences in robotics, coding and technology.

Historical marker

A lawsuit has been launched against New Hampshire state officials over the removal of a historical marker dedicated to Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, a feminist, labor activist and former leader of the U.S. Communist Party, the AP reported. The marker was removed due to its depiction of Flynn’s Communist involvement following criticisms from Republican members of the Executive Council and Gov. Chris Sununu. The plaintiffs, an American history teacher and an activist, argue that the removal was illegal, violated administrative procedures and was ideologically driven, contrary to the historical marker program’s purpose. They allege interference with their rights to petition for the erection of a historical marker, and the case is currently under review by the Attorney General’s office, according to the article.

More Medicaid

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services has reinstated Medicaid for more than 3,100 individuals, including around 1,350 children, aligning with new federal eligibility guidance, NHPR reported. This reinstatement was prompted by a directive from the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services to review and rectify any inadvertent terminations and align state processes with federal guidelines. This initiative will cover any eligible medical bills incurred during the period of disenrollment and will also help individuals understand if they can retain their coverage without going through a complex eligibility redetermination process. The state is launching further efforts to ensure access to Medicaid services and is exploring more opportunities to expand access to Medicaid-funded health services in schools, according to the article.

New Hampshire Audubon has announced the establishment of the Ines and Frederick Yeatts Wildlife Sanctuary in Warren, its 40th sanctuary, according to a press release. The 545-acre property, a gift from the Yeattses, abuts the White Mountain National Forest and is home to diverse wildlife, including some in decline. Plans include the development of access trails and a parking area. Visit nhaudubon.org to learn more.

The New Boston Fire Department is set to receive more than $9 million in federal funding from the Department of Defense’s Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) to construct a new, modern fire station. According to a press release, the facility will offer advanced fire, emergency and hazmat services and will support the New Boston Space Force Station. The grant is part of an initiative to bolster infrastructure and safety in communities harboring crucial defense installations.

A new Cathedral Gift Shop has opened at Saint Joseph Cathedral at 145 Lowell St. in Manchester, according to a press release. The shop was established following the closure of the privately owned Cathedral Church Goods and will feature a range of religious items, including books, gifts, devotionals and home décor. It will be open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesdays until 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays until 3:30 p.m.

This Week 23/09/21

Big Events September 21, 2023 and beyond

Thursday, Sept. 21
It’s the final weekend to go somewhere over the rainbow at The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester, palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) with its mainstage production of The Wizard of Oz, which runs through Sept. 24 with shows today and Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $28 to $49.

Friday, Sept. 22
Meanwhile, it’s opening weekend for the Milford Area Players’ The House on Haunted Hill at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford), which runs today through Oct. 1, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for students/ seniors. Visit milfordareaplayers.org.

Friday, Sept. 22
The Majestic Theatre (880 Page St. in Manchester; majestictheatre.net, 669-7649) presents Great Gatsby, its 18th annual auction and performance fundraiser, today and Saturday, Sept. 23, starting at 6:30 p.m. The event features performances from Majestic’s ensemble, musicians and special guests. Attendees can participate in themed raffles and silent auctions that include art passes, electronics, restaurant vouchers and unique artwork. Refreshments will be served. Tickets cost $20 per person.

Saturday, Sept. 23
The Great New Hampshire Pie Festival will take place at the New Hampshire Farm Museum (1305 White Mountain Hwy. in Milton; nhfarmmuseum.org) today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $15 ($6 for kids 12 and under). Local bakeries will have pies for sampling while local pie makers will compete in a pie contest. The day will also feature a pie crust rolling demonstration, a raffle, a silent auction, tractor rides, visits with the animals, tours of historic buildings and live music from Lance Maclean and the Moose Mountain String Band.

Sunday, Sept. 24
Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum (18 Highlawn Road in Warner; indianmuseum.org, 456- 2600) will hold its annual Harvest Moon Festival today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The day will feature nature presentations, hands-on crafts, food for sale, storytelling at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and more, according to the website. Tickets in advance cost $11 for adults, $10 for seniors/students/veterans and $8 for ages 6 to 12 ($1 more each at the door), with a $35 family admission (two adults and three children). Tickets include admission to the museum.

Sunday, Sept. 24
Catch the show “The Living Forest: Uyra” on its final day on display at Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St. in Manchester; currier.org, 669-6144). The exhibition features photographs and videos encompassing the works of the artist Uýra. The Currier is open Wednesday and Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (with Art After Work, when admission is free, from 5 to 8 p.m.). Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, $5 for youth ages 13 through 17 and is free for children under age 13.

Save the Date! Saturday, Nov. 4
New Hampshire’s own Seth Meyers will bring the laughs to the SNHU Arena (555 Elm St. in Manchester; snhuarena.com, 644-5000) on Saturday, Nov. 4, with a show at 8 p.m. Tickets, which benefit CASA of NH and Granite State Children’s Alliance, cost $105 through $255.

Featured photo: Courtesy photo.

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