Category: News

SB sweepstakes down to two

The Big Story – Super Bowl-Bound: After a Sunday filled with great performances and bizarre plays we’ve got our Super Bowl teams.

Despite completing a pass to himself for a 13-yard gain, Lamar Jackson and favored Baltimore were undone at home by KC 17-10, thanks to a terrific defensive effort that got two turnovers at the Ravens’ end zone and a great game from Travis Kelce in catching all 11 balls thrown his way for 116 yards and the opening TD that gave KC the lead for good.

Game 2 was the opposite as the 49ers roared back from down 17 at halftime to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat in a 34-31 win. The key play was a 51-yard gain after Brandon Aiyuk caught a ball that ricocheted off the face mask of the guy covering him. And the Lions were undone by the thing most responsible for getting them to the NFC Championship game, the grit to always go for it on fourth down.

See you in Vegas on Feb. 8.

Sports 101: Four people have won a Super Bowl as a player and a head coach. Name them.

News Item – Crazy NBA Scoring Week: Joel Embiid broke Wilt Chamberlain’s single game Syracuse Nationals/Philadelphia 76ers franchise scoring record by going for 70 in a win over the Spurs, and wasn’t even the week’s highest scorer. It was Luka Doncic with a fourth best in history 73 in a 148-143 win over Atlanta.

But big scoring didn’t guarantee a win, as the Suns’ Devin Booker and Minnesota’s Karl Anthony Towns each had 62 in losses to Indiana and Charlotte respectively when Towns had an astonishing 44 in his first half.

News Item – NBA Trade Deadline Arrives Next Thursday: With the Celtics going well and restricted by ridiculous NBA salary cap rules don’t expect much from them. Lots of rumors, though, where Portland could continue reshaping the Eastern Conference, as after shipping Jrue Holiday here and Damian Lillard to Milwaukee they could give the Knicks, who are 9-2 since getting OG Anunoby, a further jolt by sending Malcolm Brogdon there as rumored. And surprisingly they supposedly have Robert Williams on the block too.

The Numbers

152 – most ever career playoff receptions recorded by aforementioned KC tight end Travis Kelce to move past Jerry Rice as the all-time NFL leader.

… Of the Week Awards

Got It Wrong Again Media Report – NY Post: Early in the search it reported the Atlanta Falcons were “desperate” to hire Bill Belichick. It turned out they interviewed 11 different guys before hiring Rams D Coordinator Raheem Morris instead.

NFL Draft Oddity – Jared Goff and Brock Purdy: Sunday’s game between Detroit and SF was the first time in history that a QB taken first overall in the draft (Goff) and a QB who had been taken dead last (Purdy) faced each other as starters in a playoff game.

Separated at Birth – Goff and Ryan Gosling: Speaking of Goff, is it just me who thinks he’s a dead ringer for the Ken doll Hollywood star?

Put It in Perspective Coach B Quote of the Week – Jayson Tatum: who said on Belichick’s departure as Patriots coach. “… It’s a little weird, he’s been coaching the whole time I’ve been alive. All I’ve known is Bill Belichick and the Patriots.”

Random Thoughts:

I’ll remind folks saying Coach B should take a year off to decompress that that is exactly what people said Andy Reid should do when he was bounced out in Philadelphia. Instead he went to KC, whom he immediately turned around. And in his 10 seasons there he has won less than 10 games just once, while winning two SB’s, and is now on his way to the big game for the fourth time in five years.

Sports 101 Answer: The four guys who won a Super Bowl as a player and head coach are Tom Flores, Mike Ditka, Tony Dungy and Doug Peterson.

Final Thought: God love his gung-ho style. But it was ironic seeing the very thing, Dan Campbell used to instill the fight and toughness that got the long moribund Lions to the NFC title game undo them in the end.

It’s not a second guess to say he should have taken the field goal both times he went for it on fourth down in the fourth quarter vs. SF. It’s a lesson to those who blindly follow the analytics crowd, because making it 59 percent of the time on fourth and three or less means that also it doesn’t work four times out of 10. Thus more factors need to be considered, like field position, distance, the score, time left, what an opponent’s strengths are and momentum.

Campbell didn’t do that in a game his team lost by 3 (34-31) when not taking the two chip shot field goals he passed on likely cost his team a chance to go to the Super Bowl. The good news is it’s a live-and-learn world and it doesn’t overshadow the great job he did. Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 24/02/01

New drug to reverse opioid overdoses

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has announced the availability of nalmefene, a new medication for reversing opioid overdoses, statewide. According to a press release, pharmacies across New Hampshire are authorized to dispense nalmefene to individuals at risk of opioid overdose and their support networks. This initiative is part of the state’s efforts to combat substance use disorder, with Gov. Chris Sununu and DHHS Chief Medical Officer Jonathan Ballard emphasizing its importance in saving lives. “Yet again, New Hampshire is increasing access to every resource possible in our continued work to combat substance use disorder and save lives,” Gov. Sununu said in the release. “With this tool, we increase opportunity to partner Granite Staters in need with the variety of recovery resources available and put them on a path to a brighter future.” Nalmefene, which is particularly effective against potent opioids like fentanyl, will be provided at no cost to Medicaid beneficiaries in New Hampshire. This announcement complements the existing availability of naloxone and the state’s investment in opioid response initiatives, including the establishment of The Doorways program for substance use disorder support and the statewide placement of NaloxBoxes in 2023.

Insurance news

New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) staff have been appointed to key roles within the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), positioning New Hampshire at the forefront of discussions and decisions that impact insurance regulations and policies nationwide. According to a press release, Christian Citarella is now Chair of the Casualty Actuarial and Statistical (C) Task Force, while Commissioner DJ Bettencourt serves as Vice Chair of the NAIC/Consumer Liaison Committee and the Consumer Participation Board of Trustees. These appointments, along with others in various task forces, help to ensure that New Hampshire residents’ interests and concerns are directly represented at a national level in the insurance sector.

Child protection

Senate Majority Leader Sharon Carson (R-Londonderry) has introduced two bills, SB 459-FN and SB 463-FN, aimed at bolstering protections for children. According to a press release, SB 463-FN proposes expanding access to court-appointed counsel for children involved in dependency proceedings, specifically for those in group homes or child care institutions. Meanwhile, SB 459-FN seeks to amend the child protection act by including restraint or seclusion in the definition of institutional child abuse or neglect, updating the presumption of harm and enhancing the mandatory reporting law.

Awards

Four members of Dartmouth Health — Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD), Dartmouth Cancer Center, Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center, and New London Hospital — have received national recognition from Press Ganey, a leader in health care experience solutions. According to a press release, APD’s Emergency Department and New London Hospital Express Care were awarded the Guardian of Excellence Award for Patient Experience, with APD receiving this honor for the second consecutive year. Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center earned the same award for Employee Experience. Dartmouth Cancer Center, New Hampshire’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, received the Pinnacle of Excellence Award for the fourth year in a row, ranking in the top five percent of health care organizations for exceptional patient experience. These accolades are part of Press Ganey’s annual evaluation of top hospitals and health systems for patient experience.

Funds for northern New Hampshire

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has been awarded nearly $3 million in federal funds, aimed at supporting economic development in New Hampshire, Maine, New York and Vermont. According to a press release, this funding, allocated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grant Program, will assist in enhancing rural businesses, outdoor recreation and workforce development in these states. Specific allocations in New Hampshire include the Coös Economic Development Council, Upper Valley Snowsports/Whaleback, White Mountain Science, Inc., and Shugah Valley Snow Riders. The funding is a result of legislative efforts that included the expansion of the NBRC’s scope in the 2018 Farm Bill and increased funding in government funding legislations for FY2023 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which aims to support infrastructure and community development projects in the region.

The Southern New Hampshire Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Committee hosted the Concord Update on Jan. 26 at Campbell’s Scottish Highlands Golf Course in Salem. According to a press release, this event provided Chamber members and local citizens an opportunity to hear from State Representatives about current business matters in Concord.

The Bishop’s Charitable Assistance Fund (BCAF) of the Diocese of Manchester has announced the opening of its grant application period for the Spring 2024 cycle, with a submission deadline of Feb. 21. According to a press release, the BCAF, focusing on projects that address basic needs, welcomes applications from all 501(c)(3) organizations in New Hampshire, irrespective of religious affiliation. Funding comes from donations by individuals, businesses and philanthropic entities. See catholicnh.org/BCAF.

The Nashua Garden Club is hosting a program featuring Kerry Ann Mendez, a garden design consultant and author. According to a press release, the event, scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Nashua, will showcase a pre-recorded video titled “Clever Design Tips for Everblooming, Low-Maintenance Gardens.” The program aims to provide insights to help gardeners avoid common landscaping mistakes. This event is open to all. Visit nashuanhgardenclub.org

This Week 24/01/25

Big Events January 25 and Beyond

Thursday, Jan. 25

Drum Tao, a show with costumes and staging highlighting Japanese Taiko drums, will be at the Capitol Center for the Arts Chubb Theatre (44 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com), today at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $44 through $76. See drum-tao.com/en for a look at the performance.

Thursday, Jan. 25

The Concord Garden Club and local artists kick off the annual “Art & Bloom,” the show featuring floral arrangements paired with art, today at Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St. in Concord). The show will be on display today from 2 to 5 p.m., with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Jan. 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show is just one of the events happening during Concord’s Winter Fest; find more in the story on page 23.

Thursday, Jan. 25

Do you know your Midge and Allan? Check out the 21+ Barbie movie trivia night tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Chunky’s Cinema Pub in Manchester (707 Huse Road, chunkys.com). For a closer look at trivia nights, check out the Jan. 11 cover story (go to hippopress.com and look for the e-edition). For more trivia events this week, see page 42.

Friday, Jan. 26

It’s comedy night at the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St. in Derry; tupelomusichall.com) featuring Kenny Rogerson, Jody Sloane and David Lamb. The show starts at 8 p.m.; tickets cost $22. Find more comedy this weekend and beyond in the Comedy This Week listings on page 41.

Friday, Jan. 26

Mosaic Art Collective (66 Hanover St., Suite 201, in Manchester; 512-6309, mosaicartcollective.com) will host an artist talk with photographer Gary Samson from 5:45 to 7 p.m. The event is free but reserve a spot via EventBrite (find a link on Mosaic’s Facebook page). See garysamsonphotography.com for more on Samson and his work.

Saturday, Jan. 27

As of earlier this week there were still a few spots left for Date Night in the Pottery Studio at Studio 550 Arts Center (550 Elm St. in Manchester; 232-5597, 550arts.com) tonight at 6 p.m. The class runs about an hour and a half and participants get a basic pottery lesson and then can make their own creations, according to the website, where you can sign up.

Tuesday, Jan. 30

See the professional dance company Step Afrika! today at 7 p.m. at the Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com, where you can see videos of the company’s performances). The show is part of the William H. Gile Concert Series, so tickets are free, but go online to reserve seats.

Save the Date! Sunday, March 10
Team Police takes on Team Fire, for a good cause, on Sunday, March 10, at 1 p.m. at the SNHU Arena (555 Elm St. in Manchester; snhuarena.com) at the Battle of the Badges Hockey Championship presented by the Elliot Perry Foundation (elliotperry.org) to raise money for Dartmouth Health’s Children’s. See childrens.dartmouth-health.org/events for more on the event and to purchase tickets which cost $16 (plus fees) for ages 6 and up. On the day, tickets will cost $20.

Quality of Life 24/01/25

We’re #1!

In a comprehensive report by Retirement Living, New Hampshire has been ranked the best state for retirement in 2024. This accolade comes as part of a detailed analysis of various factors critical to retirees, including cost of living, quality of life, and health care. The state’s appeal is bolstered by its tax benefits — no tax on income, estate, or sales — and the availability of year-round activities. Retirees make up 20% of New Hampshire’s population, and they enjoy discounts on tourist attractions. The ranking is based on a Retirement Living Score, derived from a survey of more than 1,075 people age 55 and older, alongside government data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and FBI. The report aims to guide individuals considering relocation for their retirement, highlighting the importance of factors like retirement taxes, access to health care and overall affordability in making such a decision.

QOL score: +1

Comment: This is the second consecutive year that New Hampshire has taken the spot in the study.

Easier college funding

The recent changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) have wide-reaching implications, particularly for students in New Hampshire, NHPR reported. The simplified FAFSA, featuring just 36 questions instead of the previous 108, has altered the aid formula, shifting from the expected family contribution to the student aid index as the metric for calculating a student’s ability to pay for college. This change benefits New Hampshire students, with approximately 12,000 more becoming eligible for Pell Grants and over 24,000 qualifying for the maximum grant amount.

QOL score: +1

Comment: Additionally, a new state law now mandates high school seniors in New Hampshire to complete a FAFSA or opt out through a waiver, a policy expected to increase competition rates for eligible students, aligning with trends seen in other states with similar requirements.

Now I can find my texts!

Last weekend, texts from QOL’s dad and other real people were lost in a sea of desperate pleas that QOL Vote For Whomever! or take someone’s survey. Any real phone calls QOL got were ignored along with the flood of calls from one presumes candidates or something, who knows, because QOL stopped answering. According to a WMUR report from Jan. 22, some people who did answer their phone heard what sounded like (but wasn’t) the voice of President Joe Biden telling them not to vote on Tuesday and the NH attorney general is now investigating those calls. But, hark! With the primary now over (hopefully, as of press time on the morning of Jan. 23), we can all look forward to finding our real texts, answering our phones and getting our precious magazines from the mailbox without wading through election stuff.

QOL score: +1 (-1 for the fake phone calls but +2 for, hopefully, an overall lessening of calls and texts)

Comment: At least until mid October.

QOL score: 49

Net change: +3

QOL this week: 52

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

The week that was

The Big Story – NFL Championship Weekend: The Sunday when the NFC and AFC championships are played is the best sports day of the year. And that’s what we’ve got coming Sunday, when defending champion KC led by football’s best QB (Pat Mahomes) takes on Baltimore and the best running QB (and likely MVP) Lamar Jackson) in Game 1, followed by a rematch of the famed 1957 NFL special playoff game (finally) between the 49ers and Lions to determine who’d represent the Western Conference in the ’57 title game vs Cleveland. Which, oh by the way, is the last time the Lions were NFL champs. Can’t wait.

Sports 101: Name the two players who’ve scored the most TD’s in NFL playoff history.

News Item – Mahomes on the Road: Amazingly Sunday in Buffalo was the first time he had ever played on the road in the playoffs during his entire six-year career. Though a heartbreaker for the Bills, it was actually lucky number 50 for him. As it was his 39th overall road win to make his road winning percentage of 78 percent the best career for any QB in NFL history.

News Item – The New Philly Phold: In Philadelphia it’s hard to top the famed Phillie Phold (which turns 60 this year), when their baseball team blew a 6½-game lead in the final week of 1964 after not being out of first place even one day the entire season. But by going from 10-1 to finish 11-6 and getting smoked by mediocre Tampa Bay in the Wild Card round, the Eagle collapse may have done just that.

News Item – Chip Kelly Hot Topic: The rumor mill is cranking overtime this time of year in the NFL. One interesting item has the local lad and current UCLA head coach on the wish lists of several teams with openings to be their offensive coordinator.

News Item – Jaylen Brown: When he is bad he is often beyond belief awful bad, Exhibit A being his impossible to forget elimination Game 7 disaster at home vs. the Miami Heat. This time it was Friday’s battle of 2024 NBA titans with Denver when:

(1) he was 1 for 9 from three-point land,

(2) had two lay-ups blocked from behind because he eased up instead of dunking it like he needed to and usually does,

(3) down 1 with a minute to go, he clanged two free fouls in a game they lost 102-100,

(4) he stepped into the lane 2 seconds early on a missed Aaron Gordon FT with 17 seconds left to take away a crucial rebound from Boston in lieu of a jump ball that resulted, and

(5) he was one of several guys toasted by Jamal Murray on his way to his killer 35-point night.

The Numbers:

10 – most all-time playoff meetings between two teams in NFL history, which came Saturday when SF won a 24-21 thriller over Green Bay.

16 – after getting two more vs. Buffalo, times Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce have hooked up for TD’s in the playoffs to pass the Tom Brady–Rob Gronkowski combo for most in NFL history.

… Of the Week Awards

Funniest Super Bowl-Worthy Commercial – Uber Eats: Seeing iconic British actress Helen Mirren sitting on a sofa watching playoff action eating cheese balls just delivered by Uber Eats as she yells, “a Jets sweep on third and 11 — YOU IDIOTS!” before throwing the cheese balls at the TV. Very funny.

Why Can’t We Get Guys Like That Award – Nelson Agholor: He may have been a disappointment in Foxboro, but after he scored the Ravens’ first TD in their 31-10 win over Houston they loved him in Baltimore.

Thumbs Up – Dan Campbell: He’s gone from over-the-top gung-ho nut who’ll last two years tops as head coach in Detroit to a guy who’s somehow done the impossible, transforming the eternally awful Lions into the Cinderella story of the NFL.

Sports 101 Answer: With 22JerryRicehasscored the most playoff TD’s in history.Emmitt Smith and Thurman Thomasare next with 21.

A Little History – 1957 NFL Championship Game: Hard to believe, but the Lions were Patriots-like in the 1950s NFL, winning 3 times. The last was in 1957 behind backup QB Tobin Rote (also the QB for San Diego as they demolished the Pats 51-10 in the 1963 AFL title game) with swaggering Hall of Famer Bobby Layne lost for the season. First by bringing them back from down 24-3 to a 31-27 win over SF. Then Detroit crushed Cleveland 59-14 as Rote threw four TD passes and ran for another to avenge a similar 56-10 beatdown by the Browns in the 1954 Championship game.

Final Thought – Predictions:

49ers-Lions: SF should win, but being the hopeless romantic I am, I’m pulling for the upset by upstart Detroit 34-31. I know, dumb. But that’s my story.

Chiefs-Ravens: Another titanic QB battle. I’ll take Mahomes over Jackson until he proves me wrong. Final-minute 24-23 KC win.

Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 24/01/25

Pandemic Response

House Speaker Sherman Packard (R-Londonderry) has announced the formation of the Special Committee on Covid Response Efficacy, a bipartisan group led by Rep. Barbara Comtois of Barnstead, tasked with evaluating New Hampshire’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. According to a press release, the committee will conduct a science-based review, focusing on the administration of federal guidance, use of federal funds, and vaccination efforts under Emergency Use Authorization. This effort aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the state’s pandemic response and its impact on citizens and to inform future public policy for emergency responses, reflecting the House’s balanced partisan composition as mandated by House Rule 29.

For the birds!

NH Audubon is calling for public participation in its annual Backyard Winter Bird Survey to be held on Feb. 10 and Feb. 11, aiming to assess winter bird populations in New Hampshire. According to a press release, this call to action follows unusual observations last fall of fewer birds at feeders, a situation NH Audubon attributes to an abundance of natural food and mild weather. Residents can contribute by counting birds in their backyards and reporting their findings online or via a special form. The survey, critical for tracking long-term trends and potential declines in bird species, values reports of both high and low bird activity. Information and participation details are available at nhaudubon.org.

Licensing bills

Sen. Howard Pearl has introduced two bills, SB 318-FN and SB 486-FN, aimed at easing professional licensing burdens in an effort to attract more workers to the state. According to a press release, the proposed legislation would establish licensure compacts for social workers and physician assistants, allowing for reciprocity with other states and facilitating the process for professionals to move and work in New Hampshire. This move is intended to address worker shortages by removing unnecessary obstacles to employment, especially for military families relocating to the state. By streamlining the licensing process, Sen. Pearl aims to retain current workers and draw new ones to support and provide essential services to the residents of New Hampshire.

Transportation plan

The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) has presented its latest NH Transportation Improvement Plan, a biennial process aimed at assessing the state’s transportation needs and efficiently allocating available funding for maintenance and improvements, according to a press release. Following 24 public hearings held in collaboration with the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Intermodal Transportation (GACIT), the draft Ten-Year Plan was formulated, incorporating public feedback. Notable features of the plan include funding for congestion mitigation projects, advancements in engineering for critical infrastructure, proactive management of specific corridors and support for community transportation initiatives, reflecting input from the public. Gov. Sununu has forwarded the plan to the Legislature for review and approval, with the final adoption expected in June 2024.

Ed accounts

Rep. Joe Sweeney, the House Majority Floor Leader, introduced House Bill 1561-FN to the House Education Committee, which focuses on expanding eligibility for the Education Freedom Accounts program in New Hampshire. In his statement, Rep. Sweeney emphasized the importance of providing a safe and successful educational experience for all students. Drawing from his personal journey of overcoming speech challenges with the support of Salem public schools, he highlighted the inclusivity and personalized educational pathways that HB 1561 aims to offer. “By endorsing this bill, we reinforce our commitment to enriching our education system and investing in the diverse and promising futures of all Granite State students and families, making certain that no student is disadvantaged due to their specific circumstances,” he said in the statement.

Environmental ed

Rep. Joe Sweeney, the House Majority Floor Leader, introduced House Bill 1561-FN to the House Education Committee, which focuses on expanding eligibility for the Education Freedom Accounts program in New Hampshire. In his statement, Rep. Sweeney emphasized the importance of providing a safe and successful educational experience for all students. Drawing from his personal journey of overcoming speech challenges with the support of Salem public schools, he highlighted the inclusivity and personalized educational pathways that HB 1561 aims to offer. “By endorsing this bill, we reinforce our commitment to enriching our education system and investing in the diverse and promising futures of all Granite State students and families, making certain that no student is disadvantaged due to their specific circumstances,” he said in the statement.

The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra (PSO) has announced the opening of its annual Young Artist Competition, inviting high school musicians from New Hampshire and the Seacoast region of Maine and Massachusetts to participate. The competition winner will have the honor of performing a solo concerto, accompanied by the PSO, at the orchestra’s final 2024 season mainstage performance on June 12 at The Music Hall in Portsmouth. More information and application details can be found at portsmouthsymphony.org.

The Merrimack Valley Beekeepers Association (MVBA) announces the 2024 Bee School, a comprehensive beekeeping course suitable for all ages and experience levels. Led by experienced beekeepers, this program covers essential beekeeping topics through lectures, presentations, demonstrations and videos, according to a press release. Classes, which begin on Feb. 20, are held on Tuesday evenings, with some online and some in person at St. James United Methodist Church in Merrimack. The cost is a membership fee, which is $40 for individuals and $50 for families. Visit mvbee.org/bee-school.

The United Way of Greater Nashua is orchestrating the 2024 Shoebox Project for Seniors, an initiative designed to assemble and distribute gift kits to low-income isolated seniors in the community. According to a press release, these kits are curated to provide not only practical items such as toothpaste, soap and health products but also comforting items like hot chocolate, tea and puzzle books to spread cheer. With a goal to create 500 kits in collaboration with local senior services, United Way is inviting community members to contribute by purchasing items from a wishlist or making monetary donations by Feb. 1. Donations can be made online or sent to their office at 20 Broad St., Nashua.

This Week 24/01/18

Big Events January 18 and Beyond

Friday, Jan. 19

It’s opening night for Dancing Queens, billed as the Ultimate ABBA and Disco Tribute, which runs through Sunday, Feb. 11, at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) with shows at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, plus Thursday, Feb. 8, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $28 to $49.

Saturday, Jan. 20

Catch Beatlejuice tonight at 8 p.m at the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St. in Derry; tupelomusichall.com). Tickets cost $33. Find more concerts this weekend and beyond on page 38.

Saturday, Jan. 20

Come for the art, stay for the Bruce. The winter show (running through March) is up at the Sandy Clearly Community Art Gallery at the Nashua Center for the Arts (201 Main St. in Nashua; nashuacenterforthearts.com) featuring photographers Brenda McDougland, Seth Dewey, Craig Michaud and Dan Splaine. Find more about the artists at nashuacommunityarts.org/sandy-cleary-community-art-gallery. Check out the exhibit and then stay for tonight’s 8 p.m. show Bruce in the USA (with Matt Ryan and musicians presenting a celebration of the music of Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band); tickets cost $29 to $59.

Saturday, Jan. 20

It’s the third Saturday in January, which means it’s the annual winter Free Fishing Day in New Hampshire. Residents and non-residents can fish in any inland water or saltwater in New Hampshire without a fishing license (though season dates and bag limits are still in effect), according to wildlife.nh.gov, where you can find details about the day.

Saturday, Jan. 20

The 21+ show Life’s a Drag, described as a fiercely hilarious drag show, comes to Chunky’s Cinema Pub in Manchester (707 Huse Road; chunkys.com) on Saturday, Jan. 20, at 9 p.m. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets to this approximately two-hour show cost $25 (plus fees).

Tuesday, Jan. 23

It’s nomination morning for the 96th annual Academy Awards (the Oscars, which will air on Sunday, March 10); the announcement usually starts during the 8 a.m. Eastern hour (see oscars.org). In this week’s film section (page 31) see reviews of some Oscar hopefuls (Poor Things and Wonka) and listings of where to catch other possible contenders.

Save the Date! Tuesday, Feb. 13
Spend Galentine’s Day with the ladies of the Rockford Peaches when Red River Theatres (11 S. Main St. in Concord; redrivertheatres.org, 224-4600) screens A League of Their Own at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $15. And remember, “There’s no crying in baseball!”

Quality of Life 24/01/18

Food Bank funds

The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) raised a record $180,000 for the New Hampshire Food Bank at its 10th annual Distiller’s Showcase of Premium Spirits. According to a press release, the event, held on Nov. 2, 2023, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Downtown, is the region’s largest spirits tasting expo and featured over 1,000 guests sampling from 600 premium spirits. The New Hampshire Food Bank procured and provided more than 16.3 million pounds of food in 2023 to over 400 nonprofit food agencies. The funds raised at the Distiller’s Showcase will help provide thousands of nutritious meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity. The Distiller’s Showcase is part of the larger Distiller’s Week, featuring events and tastings across the state with celebrities and industry experts.

QOL score: +1

Comment: The NHLC has worked with suppliers and brokers over the past eight years to raise more than $4 million for various nonprofit organizations in New Hampshire and beyond, contributing to causes like Best Buddies New Hampshire, Easterseals New Hampshire and the New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association.

We beg to differ, WalletHub

In a recent study by WalletHub, New Hampshire was ranked as the 45th best state to start a business, out of all 50 U.S. states. This ranking was based on a comprehensive analysis of 25 key indicators of startup success, considering factors like financing accessibility, labor costs and office-space affordability. Despite being a challenging environment for new businesses, New Hampshire showed specific strengths and weaknesses in the study: It ranked 26th in the average growth of small businesses, but lower in other areas like labor costs (44th) and availability of human capital (48th). The state’s average length of the work week was ranked 32nd, with the cost of living and industry variety coming in at 41st and 34th respectively.

QOL score: -1

Comment: This ranking is part of a larger national trend where about 20 percent of new businesses fail within their first year. The challenges are compounded by factors like inflation and labor shortages.

It’s winter somewhere

Ice Castles in North Woodstock, New Hampshire, a popular winter attraction in New England, is set to open earlier than anticipated at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan 20. According to a press release, the original opening date was planned for Jan. 26, but favorable colder temperatures have allowed for an earlier launch. The attraction, located in the White Mountains, features a range of interactive experiences, including ice-carved tunnels, fountains, slides, frozen thrones and a Polar Ice Bar. Additionally, visitors can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, snow tubing, a mystic light walk, and cascading towers of ice with color-changing LED lights. Tickets for the grand opening are available on the Ice Castles website at icecastles.com/new-hampshire.

QOL score: +1

Comment: Ice Castles was founded in 2011 by Brent Christensen, who developed the process to create these frozen attractions initially as a winter playground for his children.

QOL score: 48

Net change: +1

QOL this week: 49

What’s affecting your Quality of Life here in New Hampshire?

Let us know at news@hippopress.com.

Elvis leaves the building

The Big Story: After 24 years of mostly excellence Bill Belichick is out as head coach of the Patriots, something that until recently seemed unfathomable. Followed by the choice of Jerod Mayo, which we’ll have more on later.

Old-Timers Sports 101: Name the two QB’s involved in the shocking 1964 QB-QB trade between Philadelphia and Washington.

News Item – Coaches: Whether it was a firing, a push out, resignation or mutual agreements, last week was a landmark for coaches in football. This generation’s greatest pro and college coaches, Belichick and Nick Saban, are stunningly out in Foxboro and Alabama respectively. And they were followed out the door by Pete Carroll after 14 years in Seattle, the highly regarded Mike Vrabel in Tennessee and possibly Jim Harbaugh at Michigan if the (annual) rumors going around are to be believed. All will likely show up on TV or a sideline somewhere again. But it’s a sea change to be sure, which few expected when 2023 began.

News Item – Pats’ Jerod Mayo: The succession plan was already in place and Kraft lived up to it by hiring Mayo to replace Belichick; chillingly, if he hired a coach before he hired a new general manager, the new GM will probably come from the same pool of people who’ve been drafting so poorly for years.

News Item – Michigan Football: It was a good week for football in Michigan. First their U demolished Washington to win the national championship in college football. Then the Lions beat the Rams and their one-time star Matthew Stafford 24-23 for their first playoff win since 1992 while keeping their hopes alive to win their first NFL championship (1957) in 66 years!

And if you’re keeping score on the biggest QB-QB swap since the 1960s of Stafford for Jared Goff: No fewer than five key guys in Sunday’s win came to Detroit directly from L.A. or future draft picks from the deal. Including TD’s in the game from RB Jahmyr Gibbs and rookie tight end Matt LaPorta.

The Numbers:

0 – Green Bay Packers voted to the NFL Pro Bowl game, compared to seven for Dallas, whom GB annihilated Sunday 48-34.

4 – times Celtics get a life Coach Joe Mazzulla told the media he watches the Ben Affleck-directed Boston heist film The Town each week.

… Of the Week Awards:

Best Coach B Line – at his Press Conference: “I haven’t seen this many cameras since we signed [Tim] Tebow.”

Fun Media Feud – Steven A. Smith vs. Jason Whitlock: It started with the Blaze provocateur calling into question the truth in Smith’s recent book, to which he responded by calling Whitlock a “fat b—–!” Two best shots were Whitlock calling him “Stephen A Myth” andSmith saying, “This is the dude that will have a funeral that ain’t got no pallbearers.”

Worst Sneakers – Giannis Antetokounmpo: Those chartreuse numbers he wore Thursday against the Celtics. You’ve got to be secure to wear a pair of those.

Thumbs Down – NBA Discipline Czar: For cutting habitual offender Draymond Green’s latest suspension to just 12 games. What are they going to say next time (and there will be one), “This time we really, really mean it, Dray”? Booooo.

Sports 101 Answer: Washington got future Hall of Famer Sonny Jurgensen while Philly got Norm Snead, who was later traded to the G-Men for another HoF quarterback, Fran Tarkenton.

Final Thought – Bob Kraft: Let’s just say I’m not optimistic that the decisions made last week were the right ones.

Moving Coach B out puts approval-craving owner Bob Kraft at center stage in the team’s reconstruction. After lucking into Tom Brady way back when and now not having Belichick to shield him from criticism when things go haywire, he’s now the one to look at over what happens going forward. And while it’s not quite the same, hopefully it’ll go better than for similarly credit-conscious Dallas owner Jerry Jones after his battle of egos with Jimmy Johnson led to JJ’s departure from Dallas after winning two Super Bowls. Because it’s 28 years and counting since the Boys have even been back to the NFC title game, let alone the Super Bowl, after the architect of their three SB wins in the 1990s left the building. And while it had to end sooner or later, it makes me wonder if that’s what’s in store for New England as well. Especially when Kraft picked a totally untested defensive guy to lead a 4-13 team crying out for a new age mind to fix the worst offensive team in franchise history.

And there’s an unsettling historical parallel with Butch Hobson, who Red Sox GM Lou Gorman elevated far above his capability to be his manager because Lou was somehow afraid he’d get stolen away by another team. Which sounds a lot like Mayo’s story.

Email Dave Long at dlong@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 24/01/18

Fire safety

The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office is commemorating Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Week from Jan. 15 to Jan. 21, aiming to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention in the community, according to a press release. During this period, residents are reminded of critical fire safety practices, especially given that cooking and heating are leading causes of home fires in New Hampshire. The state has experienced more than 100 civilian injuries due to fires between 2020 and 2023, highlighting the importance of preventive measures. Key safety tips include vigilant cooking, maintaining safe zones around heating equipment and ensuring the proper functioning of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. CRR Week offers resources for both the public and fire service professionals, emphasizing the integrated approach of education, engineering, enforcement, emergency response and economic incentives in fire risk reduction. Visit CRRWeek.org.

Lead testing

The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) has released a bulletin mandating that health insurers cover blood lead testing for 1- and 2-year-old children without cost-sharing, in compliance with the Affordable Care Act. According to a press release, the directive comes after noticing that some insurers were not following ACA guidelines, which prohibit cost-sharing for preventive services, including lead screening. The NHID emphasizes adherence to Health Resources and Services Administration and American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendations, ensuring New Hampshire’s children can access necessary lead testing without financial barriers. This move aligns with recent Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services guidance, extending no-cost provisions to follow-up testing as well. Insurers are advised to review their practices in light of this bulletin to uphold health care coverage standards and protect the health of young children in the state.

New director

Richard K. Sala has been appointed as the new director of the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR New Hampshire), under the New Hampshire Department of Education. According to a press release, Sala’s experience and qualifications include a Master of Business Administration and Master of Environmental Law and Policy, as well as a membership with the New Hampshire Bar Association since 2013. With a background including service in the U.S. Marines and roles in education and law, Sala will manage VR New Hampshire’s operations, focusing on aiding individuals with disabilities and engaging with business partners. His tasks will involve shaping long-term strategies for meaningful career development and meeting workforce objectives. He succeeds Lisa Hinson-Hatz, who served the department for two decades and has moved on to a similar role in a different location.

Mandatory minimums

Gov. Chris Sununu has officially endorsed Senate Bills 414 and 415, which introduce mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking and distribution offenses resulting in death, specifically targeting large quantities of controlled substances like fentanyl. According to a press release, these bills represent the state’s intensified efforts to address the drug crisis by imposing stringent penalties on drug dealers whose actions contribute to fatalities. Gov. Sununu’s support is documented in a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee, urging the advancement of these bills to reflect the severity of the drug-related challenges facing New Hampshire.

Athletes on the run

Special Olympics New Hampshire (SONH) has launched a year-long campaign called “Running For Special Olympics,” focused on running. According to a press release, the campaign includes a fitness program to encourage SONH athletes to run independently or participate in organized races across the state, as well as a series of fundraising events related to running. Millennium Running, based in Bedford, has named SONH as its official charity for 2024, allowing Special Olympics athletes to take part in 14 Millennium Running signature events. SONH staff and volunteers will attend these races to provide information about the organization’s programs. Approximately 40,000 runners are expected to participate in the 14 signature events in 2024.

Catholic Medical Center in Manchester has become the first in New England to successfully implement AVEIR™ DR, the world’s first dual chamber leadless pacemaker system. According to a press release, this new technology by Abbott, FDA-approved in June 2023, provides a minimally invasive treatment for patients with abnormal heart rhythms requiring pacing in both the right atrium and ventricle. The system enhances patient care with a smaller device size, leadless placement and synchronized pacing between two pacemakers using i2i™ technology, which facilitates communication through the body’s blood.

Daniel Douidi has been sworn in as the new chief of the Bedford Police Department, succeeding retired Chief John Bryfonski. According to a press release, Chief Douidi, who has served with the Bedford Police for 33 years, began his career as a part-time special police officer in Manchester in 1987 and joined Bedford Police as a full-time officer in 1989. He has steadily risen through the ranks, holding positions including captain and deputy chief. Chief Douidi said he aims to improve department morale and make it an attractive place to work, focusing on hiring, training and retention, and emphasized an open-door policy and prioritizing the needs of Bedford’s citizens.

The United Way of Greater Nashua has launched the Tech Connect United Laptop Donation Program, accepting donations of working laptops, tablets or smartphones. According to a newsletter, these devices will be cleared of data, refurbished and distributed to children, job-seekers, college students and seniors in the community, with the aim of enhancing digital access for telehealth, job searches and educational purposes. Donations can be made at their Nashua office (20 Broad St.) during weekdays or by appointment. This effort is supported by Microsoft’s Tech Spark Fellowship Grant Funding.

Stay in the loop!

Get FREE weekly briefs on local food, music,

arts, and more across southern New Hampshire!