New Hampshire Women Magazine

NEW HAMPSHIRE

WO M EN MAGAZINE

celebrating the women of New Hampshire

LET’S CELEBRATE NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE’S

WOMEN OF 2019

Inside: Ask the Pediatric Surgeon Elizabeth S. Soukup, MD M.M.Sc.

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NEW HAMPSHIRE

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Sponsors of this issue: Kelly Arsenault New Hampshire Women Magazine’s print publication is published by Melissa DiOrio of Gracant Communications (melissa@nhwomenmagazine.com). The name ‘New Hampshire Women Magazine’ is registered as a trade name with the State of New Hampshire by Sullivan Grueter Communications, LLC and is used herein with its permission. The term ‘New Hampshire Women’ is registered as a trademark with the State of New Hampshire by Sullivan Grueter Communications, LLC and is used herein with its permission.

NH Women Magazine / VOL 2 ISSUE 8/ 3

SPOTLIGHT COLUMN | NHWM

KATHY NELSON : TRANSFORMING YOUNG LIVES WORDS: Crystal Ward Kent

“Everyone says that this is a joyful place,” she says. “When people come in the door, they feel it—the teachers are happy, the students are happy.

How can you not be passionate about a place like this? I feel blessed!” want to go from here. It wound up being a great exercise and very energizing. We felt that it was also educational for the students as they participated in the process as well.”

Nelson is excited for 2020 and For Kathy Nelson, president of already has several key goals she World Academy in Nashua, New is working toward. “As president, Hampshire, 2019 was a year of transi- I see my main role as continuing tion. “It was a fabulous year, person- to develop the resources that the ally and professionally,” she recalls. school needs to be its best, and “It centered around my completing that the teachers need to do stellar the transition to becoming school jobs. I will be assisting in mainpresident after serving as head of taining our dual accreditations and school. I started World Academy researching strategic directives in 1980, so that’s more than three to keep us on the cutting edge of decades that I’ve been involved with educational best practices.” its expansion and growth. To now be She is eager to build more president of a place that I love and local partnerships and corporate believe in so strongly is amazing, and connections, and to strengthen such a gift!” existing relationships with the World Academy offers innovative community, noting that “a school nurturing and education for children of this size takes a village; we from infant through eighth grade. The are fortunate to have some great school focuses on helping students relationships and we want to reach their full academic and person- continue to build more bridges.” al potential, and emphasizes building She also wants to work more on confidence while teaching a wide supporting diversity, educating range of skills that will be useful both the public about the value of a in school and in life. quality education in the early and Nelson notes that her transition to middle school years, and fostering president was carefully planned by support for the vital early childthe school to evolve over a threehood field. “At World Academy, we year cycle, and that World Acadesay that we follow an educational my used the transition as a time to roadmap from ‘cradle to career’ for strategize about overall structure, students,” Nelson explains. “Every Academy goals, and the roles of ev- teacher here understands what the eryone involved. “We have wonderful ‘whole child’ needs at every stage people on staff, and I’m not exagand we work hard to make sure gerating when I say that everyone that no step is omitted. Giving a loves the school. We used this time child a good start in life makes a for some team building, reexaminhuge difference. By starting with ing accreditation goals, succession a good foundation, we can then planning, reassessing our needs and provide a world of opportunities strengths, and to talk about where we

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In 2015, World Academy celebrated the opening of their new middle school and gymnasium.

and the skills that students will need to make good choices in the global future.”

Nelson stresses that her number one job is to work for the students and their families. “That’s what I tell the parents—I work for you,” she says. “I want to help your kids accomplish great things.” Towards that end, she is constantly seeking to add more innovation to the school, to increase the number of international students so that all students can embrace a more global perspective, and to maintain the school’s successful format.

“We are very experienced-based, project-focused and intentionally respectful here,” Nelson says. “We work hard, but we have fun. We now have more than two generations of very successful alumni—over 20,000 students--so we know what works. Our enrollment

continues to increase as our success stories grow. We’ve achieved a lot, but we never stop looking for ways to add quality.”

World Academy will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2020, and while Nelson is proud of all that the school and its faculty and students have achieved, she also celebrates that intangible “something” that makes the school special.

“Everyone says that this is a joyful place,” she says. “When people come in the door, they feel it—the teachers are happy, the students are happy. How can you not be passionate about a place like this? I feel blessed!”

SPOTLIGHT COLUMN | NHWM

A Fulfilling Life Spotlight: Sandra Ierardi Written by Crystal Ward Kent When asked to describe 2019, Sandra Ierardi has one word, “Phenomenal.”

Ierardi, a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Verani Realty of Amherst, New Hampshire, feels that she achieved many of the goals that she set for herself.

Looking back, she feels both grateful for the year’s successes and energized for 2020.

“I set some major goals for 2019, including wanting to do more for charitable causes,” she says. “I was thrilled to host a classic car show open house benefit at one of my luxury listings. The car entries, cellists and champagne toasts set the stage for a terrific event, which was complimented by the stunning foliage surrounding the estate. We had a stellar turnout and raised more than $1,500 for Veterans’ Count, a cause I’m passionate about. Creatively, this was made possible through the graciousness of the seller, a veteran who had an antique car collection; he was able to honor servicemen and women through his hobby. The open house was very unique. I was so pleased that so many people enjoyed it and supported the charity.”

Ierardi also worked hard in 2019 to expand more of her business into the global luxury market. She wanted to broaden her services so that she could reach all levels of clients. “I want to be able to meet all client needs,” she says. “Whether it’s first-time home buyers, those looking for a luxury home or a second home, or clients looking to downsize or right-size. I think it’s important to be able to meet people’s needs at different stages of their life.”

Ierardi also feels that her business formula is working, based on feedback she has gotten from clients. “They like the fact

that I’m flexible and always available, and they know that I’m highly motivated to help them achieve their goals. I’m gratified to get a lot of repeat business and referrals. Those are the highest compliments that you can get.”

Looking towards 2020, she has even loftier goals. “I’ve already started expanding my business into the global real estate market,” she says. “Next year, I plan to do more of that. It really opens up opportunities for both buyers and sellers if you can service national and international listings. I’ve partnered with organizations that help you develop the international side of your business and they have been a big help. I also want to continue to grow my local business and form partnerships with like-minded individuals. Of course, supporting charities that matter to me is always part of the plan.”

Ierardi admits that she might be a workaholic, but says it doesn’t feel that way. “I really love what I do,” she laughs. “To me, my work is a joy. I love everything about real estate—

helping people with their housing needs is challenging, exciting and rewarding. I love meeting people and working with people. I’ve made wonderful lifelong friends from my relationships with clients and people that I work with. My work doesn’t feel like work at all—it’s very fulfilling on every level.”

As 2019 comes to a close, Ierardi feels a great sense of satisfaction. “You never know what a year is going to bring, but I’ve always felt that if you work hard, you will see results and this year proved that to be true.”

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MEDICAL SPA | SPECIAL SECTION

BETTER SEX THROUGH SOUND WAVES Written by Dr. Lisa Vuich, Owner of Renew Medi Spa

Dr. Lisa Vuich is a graduate of Tufts University (1988) and Tufts University School of Medicine (1992). She opened Renew MediSpa in 2006 and has worked steadily since then to ensure that Renew MediSpa remains at the cutting edge of the latest advancements in nonsurgical aesthetics. She is a nationally recognized injector, a member of numerous aesthetic organizations, a Key Opinion Leader for several aesthetic companies, and a Master Clinical instructor for Specialty Med Training. She is board certified by the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine and regularly instructs physicians and other providers on injection technique, platelet-rich plasma therapies and other aesthetic procedures through the Renew MediSpa Training Institute.

Does a relationship need great sex to flourish, or are those who enjoy the best sexual experiences just “lucky”?

Over the past 20 years, sexual health has no doubt become a hot topic. Two decades ago the word was taboo, now it’s hard to watch an hour of TV or surf the internet without happening upon a commercial, advertisement or article exploring options for improved sexual performance. Our drive for sex is intertwined with our psychological needs for esteem and connection. Studies from around the globe have shown that a satisfying sex life impacts many aspects of a woman’s life- from longevity and the incidence of heart disease to mental health and the strength of relationships. Truly satisfying sex is an important part of a woman’s overall physical and emotional well-being at any adult age, but many women aren’t feeling as much pleasure as they’d like.

The Pleasure Gap Many women experience difficulty with orgasm in particular. A study published in 2014 in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that only 62.9% of women were able to experience an orgasm with a familiar partner, compared to 85.1% of men. Researchers have referred to this phenomenon as the “orgasm gap” or the “pleasure gap”. Some studies have found that 30% of women have trouble climaxing at all, and only 20% could orgasm from penetration alone without some other form of stimulation. And yet, women have 8000 nerve endings in the clitoris, twice the number of nerve endings as are present in the

penis.

The full clitoral anatomy wasn’t really understood until the 1990’s, and it wasn’t until 2009 that the first 3D image of the clitoral anatomy was created. What we have long labelled the clitoris, the most external and visible portion, is really only what some have termed “the tip of the clitoral iceberg”. The full clitoris is a wishbone shaped structure which extends much further internally, coursing down the right and left side to surround the vulva.

Men have also benefitted for years from the use of low intensity shock wave therapy (LI-SWT) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. LI-SWT induces cellular microtrauma, which in turn stimulates the release of angiogenic factors which stimulate new blood vessel growth and heightened nerve sensitivity in the treated tissue.

Commonly known as “Gainswave ®” and backed by over 30 clinical studies showing effectiveness in the treatment of ED or even as a form of performance enhancement, it has been a popular service at Renew MediSpa for several years.

Biohacking Your Orgasm As mentioned above, difficulty achieving orgasm is a common frustration for many women.

Fortunately, we now have the female equivalent of “Gainswave ®” for women.

The drug Viagra ® was patented in 1996 and approved for use in erectile dysfunction by the FDA on 27 March 1998. Others followed, but it wasn’t until August 2015 that the drug Addyi ® (Flibanserin) was approved for the treatment of premenopausal women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. Dubbed “the female Viagra”, it claimed to enhance sex drive in these women but a close look at the study results revealed that the drug added very little to a very robust “placebo effect”. Furthermore, women who consumed as little as the equivalent of two glasses of wine in close proximity to taking the drug were at risk for a significant drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness, and it required daily dosing to achieve the desired effect.

Needless to say, most women passed on taking the risk.

Cliovana ® is the first completely non-invasive treatment designed specifically to improve female orgasms and sexual satisfaction. Cliovana ® employs the same use of sound wave technology to stimulate regeneration of vascular and nerve cells in the clitoris and perineum, without any significant risk, side effects or downtime. This in turn improves sexual responsiveness. It is completely non-invasive and pain free. The typical treatment course is a total of four sessions over the course of two weeks, each lasting less than 15 minutes.

Biological Effects: Microscopic Features of New Vessels

Results can begin within the first couple of treatment sessions and continue to develop over the subsequent 3 months as cellular regeneration occurs gradually. A booster session of 1 or 2 treatments once a year would be expected, to maintain the benefit since we cannot stop the aging process. The typical cost is approximately $2000 for a complete treatment course.

Southern New Hampshire Medical Spa Leading the Pack Renew MediSpa is the first site north of New York to offer this revolutionary treatment for the benefit of women’s health, and our initial results have been very positive. All of the women we have treated are reporting enhanced sensitivity, more intense orgasm and shortened time to achieve orgasm, and none have experienced any negative side effects.

While certainly not a panacea for sexual dysfunction, this is an exciting new addition to our “wellness toolbox” for women. It will not address vaginal atrophy, but we have other modalities to treat that including the use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) and radiofrequency therapies (Viveve ® and ThermiVa ®) which have worked successfully for our clients for years. We are excited about the potential for further enhancement by combining PRP (commonly called the “O Shot ®”) in the same way that we combine PRP with our Gainswave ® sessions for men.

Renew MediSpa recently moved into a new location at 23 B Crystal Avenue in Derry, New Hampshire. This 10,000 square foot facility includes a separate suite for the Renew Medical Spa Training Institute, where we will be teaching physicians and nurses to perform this and many other regenerative and aesthetic procedures in the years to come. For more information or to schedule a consultation or enquire about how to become trained in sexual wellness procedures including Cliovana ®, call 603894-0070.

Above: Soundwaves create new blood vessels and increase nerve sensitivity, which in turn creates increased responsiveness.

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SPOTLIGHT COLUMN | NHWM

Kelly Arsenault Making a Difference “Like everyone, Arsenault hopes that 2020 brings success, but for a special reason. “I just want to be able to write checks to charities and help make a difference,” she says. “That’s what success means to me. “ Written by Crystal Ward Kent

Kelly Arsenault, an independent contractor with Keller Williams Realty Metropoliton of Londonderry, New Hampshire, is used to juggling a full plate, between her career as a real estate agent, heading her own nonprofit—PRONE (Papillion Rescue of the Northeast) and also being the local founder of Real Estate & Business Social Enterprises Association (REBSEA). REBSEA is a national business group that works with nonprofits to help them reach fundraising goals. She views 2019 as a year of achievements, rewards and personal growth.

“I look back at 2019 as the year I learned a lot,” she says. “It was a time to reflect on what I want

to do more of and how to better manage my time going forward. It also reminded me of why I got involved in real estate in the first place. I was fortunate to work with a number of first-time home buyers this year, and it was so rewarding. Helping people fulfill their dreams is why I do what I do. Getting your own home is something special and I never tire of being a part of it.”

Arsenault also felt that 2019 taught her something about achieving balance. “I’m passionate about everything that I do, but I know that I need to achieve better balance between my work with PRONE and my real estate career in the coming year. You have to learn to delegate and I am doing some restructuring to help me do both efficiently.”

For 2020, Arsenault wants to expand the REBSEA opportunity by getting more realtors involved and spreading awareness of the program to nonprofits. She has added a colleague, Heather McCarthy, who is also committed

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to advocating for REBSEA. “A lot of nonprofits are not aware of this opportunity and I’m eager to spread the word,” she says. “The realtors involved in REBSEA are committed to donating 20 percent of our net commission for each closed transaction directly to a selected nonprofit for each client referred to us. I know how hard it is for nonprofits to fundraise, and how much time it takes to fundraise.

Thanks to efforts such as REBSEA, nonprofits can receive a significant benefit without a lot of work, leaving them more time to do what they need to do. Everyone knows someone who wants to buy or sell a home, so connecting with REBSEA can really make a difference to charities in need.”

PRONE is another of Arsenault’s causes, and her New Year’s goal is to continue to expand their efforts. “We want to help not just newly-rescued dogs, but also dogs that need to be rehomed for whatever reason,” she explains. “Every dog deserves a forever home, no

matter their age, health or background. At PRONE, we want to find that balance between rescue work and adoption coordination.

Like all rescue groups, I hope one day to be out of business, because every dog has found a home!”

Real estate remains Arsenault’s first love, and she looks forward to working with home buyers and sellers of all ages and needs.

“I love what I do—I know this is where I’m meant to be,” she says. “For 2020, Keller-Williams is providing us with new technology that will allow us to serve our clients even better. I’m excited to have these new tools and get out there. The services that we can bring to clients today are amazing.”

Like everyone, Arsenault hopes that 2020 brings success, but for a special reason. “I just want to be able to write checks to charities and help make a difference,” she says. “That’s what success means to me. “

SPOTLIGHT COLUMN

JULIE PRUETT: A TIME OF TRANSFORMATION Whatever 2020 brings, Pruett knows it will be positive and powerful.

“I have women telling me that what I do has changed their lives,” she says. “It doesn’t get any more real than that. Knowing that what I do is so important and needed is all the motivation I need to succeed.”

Sometimes a year is all about becoming who you are supposed to be and doing what you are supposed to do—such was 2019 for Julie Pruett, owner of A Beautiful You by Julie.

Located in Londonderry, New Hampshire, A Beautiful You by Julie provides alternative hair treatments and styling for women who are losing or have lost their hair. Sometimes the hair loss is due to illness; other times, it may be genetic or even due to anxiety. Although Pruett is a veteran business owner, hair stylist and certified wig/alternative hair expert, her new venture is something she has not done before. She is also breaking new ground with the types of services she offers, as there are few specializing in this area. As a result, she is working hard to educate people about what she offers, and spreading the word so that women in need of her expertise can discover

her business.

“2019 was better than expected, given that we were only officially open a little over a year,” says Pruett. “I’m still feeling very positive about everything. It can be easy to get discouraged in the beginning, but I know I’ll get to where I want to be. My strategy is to picture success, then look at what it will take to get me there, and work backwards.

You just need to go step by step.”

Pruett notes that client feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, which lets her know that she’s on the right track. “I’ve had so many positive emails, comments and remarks on Google. The more the word gets out, the more compliments I receive. I’ve also gotten a lot of referrals, both from wordof-mouth and from Giving You Back the Confidence to Face the World Google. Oncology doctors are passing my name around as well, and that’s very helpful.”

She admits that since she is a one-person enterprise at the moment, it can be hard to do all the things she needs to do in terms of education and promotion, and still run the business. “I “A Beautiful You is a personal, discreet, have to be here and compassionate if I’m open,” she says. “I would never wig consultation service where you can be assured of want someone to a warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere.” come by looking for information or an appointment, and me not to be here.

So, I’m still figuring out how to get it all done. However, it’s 25 Nashua Road/B3, Londonderry, NH • (603) 930-0478 happening and I abeautifulyoubyjulie.com Tuesday-Friday 10:00-6:00 know I’ll get there.”

Saturday- 10:00-3:00 Pruett says her Sunday & Monday- Closed big goal for 2020

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is to blend her personal goals with her professional goals. “I have to support myself, but I’m really not doing this for financial gain,” she says. “I created this business because I truly want to help these women feel good about themselves. I find it so rewarding to be able to work with a client and help them recapture a bit of who they are by aiding them in selecting alternative hair. If you feel good about how you look, and feel like yourself again, you feel like you can do anything. Going forward, I want to spend most of my time helping people, and if I can do that through my business, then my future will be tremendously satisfying.”

Pruett is also continuing to refine her business’s environment, as she wants her clients’ experience to be both relaxing and positive. “The women who come here feel vulnerable,” she says.

“Part of my job is to make them feel positive and to take away that stress. I make sure that they know this is a supportive place, and we are all in it together.

“You know, we shed a lot of tears here, because transformation can be emotional,” she continues. “Sometimes they are tears over what they are dealing with, but mostly they are happy tears as they regain some hope.”

Whatever 2020 brings, Pruett knows it will be positive and powerful. “I have women telling me that what I do has changed their lives,” she says. “It doesn’t get any more real than that. Knowing that what I do is so important and needed is all the motivation I need to succeed.”

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Written by Crystal Ward Kent

NHWM COVER WOMEN | Inspiring Women

REFLECTIONS: CELEBRATING ICONIC NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN As we look back on 2019, New Hampshire Women is proud to celebrate all of the exceptional women who have graced our pages. We salute them for their achievements, their support of other women through their leadership and service, and for making New Hampshire proud!

In this story, we take a look back at some of the women who have paved the way for others in their various fields.

The Adventurers A year ago, New Hampshire Women roared down the racetrack with NASCAR driver Melissa Fifield and took to the skies with commercial airline pilot Amanda Pearson.

When Melissa Fifield punches into the straightaway at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire at up to 170 mph the feeling is pure exhilaration.

For that blazing moment, she is one with the car and knows she is doing what she was born to do. Fifield, who hails from Wakefield, New Hampshire, is already a rising star on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. She drives the striking pink and black 01 Truck Stop Northeast Chevrolet for her family-run team and is the only New Hampshire driver and team owner on the tour.

For Fifield, racing is why she gets up in the morning. “I can’t live without it. I love the speed and the competition. I love the

adrenaline rush I get when I’m driving. Other drivers say once you start you’ll never quit, and I believe that. I love the side by side racing, the turns, the strategy and that big rush to get to the finish first. Nothing else equals being behind the wheel of a fast car.”

She chose NASCAR because she grew up watching NASCAR modifieds at the Speedway. “That was always the dream--to race these cars.

And now, here I am, living it. It’s been amazing.”

Fifield sees the future as one wide open speedway, and she is determined to accelerate toward all those shining possibilities. “Go for your passion, whatever it may be,” she says. “Whether it’s racing or a career in business, it doesn’t matter. If there is something out there that you want to do, do everything you can to make it happen.

You won’t regret it. There will be obstacles ahead, but they can be overcome if you put your heart into it. If a girl from a small town in New Hampshire can grow up and race NASCAR, anything is possible!”

Passengers disembarking Endeavor Air, a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, are often surprised to find that their captain is a charming 27-yearold woman. First Officer Amanda Pearson still looks more like the college student she recently was than an experienced aviator and flight instructor. She is one of a small

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number of female commercial pilots and passionate about flying and women in aviation.

For Pearson, “slipping the surly bonds of earth*” is almost a daily experience, as she helms her CRJ900, a 76-seat passenger jet, on frequent trips up and down the Eastern Seaboard. She is also rated to fly seaplanes and is a flight instructor for singleand multi-engine aircraft. If it flies, Pearson is interested in learning about it.

Pearson began her career in aviation almost by accident, but once she got a taste of flying, she never looked back.

“For me, flying is not a hobby, it’s my career. Getting in the cockpit never gets old. Every take off, every landing, every trip is different. I love flying for the challenges it presents.

Challenges keep me going.

Flying is an amazing way to make a living.”

Pearson reflects a moment on her journey and how far her career as already taken her. “In flight training, I tried to push myself to higher standards than those required because I felt like I was representing all women. I wanted to do as well as those who broke ground before me. I wanted to prove that I was the best aviator I could be, and maybe help push that door open a little wider for other women in this industry. As a little girl, I went to a career day and there was no one there from the aviation industry telling me that I could fly. Today, I can go to a career day and tell another little girl ‘You CAN fly.’ You can achieve whatever you want--and the sky is NOT the limit.”

The Trailblazers Women have made their mark in law enforcement for many years, but New

Hampshire is proud to have two women blazing new paths, one as Deputy Attorney General and the other as warden of a correctional facility.

When Michelle Edmark goes to work steel doors lock behind her and armed correctional officers patrol her building’s perimeter.

Edmark is the warden at the New Hampshire State Prison for Men in Concord, NH, which is overseen by the New Hampshire Department of

Corrections (NHDOC). The prison houses more than 1,300 persons under departmental control at maximum, medium and minimum levels. The prisoners vary in age from 18 to senior citizens and sentences may be a year to life behind bars.

For Edmark, the rewards of working in corrections far outweigh the challenges.

“Every decision you make has an impact on someone’s life,” she explains. “I have always wanted to try and make a difference and this job allows me to do that. It can be difficult sometimes, and at first, it was a unique environment to get used to, but once I adapted to that, I found the work rewarding. I enjoy trying to improve situations for the people under our custody and for my staff.”

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As she looks ahead, Edmark is not sure what her future goals are. “Being warden was the main goal and now that I’m here, I feel that this may be the pinnacle of my career in corrections,” she says. “I want to do the best job I can in this position, and then, down the road, maybe take a different path. I’m not looking too far ahead at this point. I worked hard to get here and I’m going to focus on the present.”

From investigating a sexual assault case at a prestigious private school to missing children and horrendous murders, Deputy Attorney General Jane Young has seen it all. New Hampshire is a relatively low-crime state, but even the most congenial regions can have a darker side. For several decades Young has been a steadfast presence in handling a wide range of criminal investigations for the Granite State. Some of these cases have captured the national spotlight, but even in the glare of media attention, Young has kept a low profile, noting, “I’m an underthe-radar kind of gal.” When a famous missing person case turned into a murder investigation, she reminded the swarming media that, “This isn’t about me. It’s about (the victim). This is my job. I do my job because I love my job.”

The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office is a busy place, handling hundreds of cases each year. In addition to homicides, kidnappings and sexual assaults, the office handles drug prosecution, consumer fraud prosecution, environmental litigation, and officerinvolved shootings, as well as everything in between. In her role as Deputy Attorney General, Young is a key watchdog for the wellbeing of New Hampshire’s people.

Young hopes that her being Deputy Attorney General motivates other young women to explore a career in the legal system. “The law is a noble profession,” she says. “You can make a difference. You may never see some of the victims or their families again, but you can be satisfied knowing that for one key moment in their lives, your work mattered. You were there for them and you did something that

counted, even for some small measure.”

Those Who Serve Huddled up in a sleeping bag in the cold mountains of Afghanistan, U.S. Army Lieutenant Lynn Daigle Powers could only think of the warmth the dawn would bring. It was 2012, and women were not yet allowed to serve in combat roles, but Powers was part of a Cultural Support Team attached to Special Forces units operating in hostile territory. Her role, and that of others chosen for this duty, was to befriend village women and form a social bridge between the military and the locals.

Powers had trained hard to get here and was well aware that a lot of eyes were watching how she performed.

Powers was embedded with male soldiers and knew that part of her job was to break down barriers. “I knew I had to work harder, and do more than anyone else,” she recalls. “I had to prove myself.

For the most part, the men in my team were very professional. If you did your part, you were part of the unit. We took care of each other. Overall, I had a very good experience.”

After leaving the Army, Powers became a real estate agent in 2013 and hasn’t looked back. She enjoys helping everyone but especially likes working with military families in need of housing.

“I love the challenge of real estate and the fact that the job is different every day. Becoming an agent is truly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I’ve been fortunate to reach my goals.

I set my sights on being Rookie of the Year for Verani and I achieved that. I literally went around knocking on doors.

It showed me that I could make this work. Now, I’m building my business and even starting my own team!”

When she’s not working, Powers is busy being a mom and serves as a guardian ad litem with CASA, a nonprofit that supports abused and neglected children and helps them transition to better lives. “I’m just trying to be the best person I can be,” she says. “I know that I’m lucky to be where I am and I’m very grateful. I don’t take anything for granted!”

The Cultural Icons Our first covers were two iconic New Hampshire women, Patricia Lynch, executive director of The Music Hall in Portsmouth, and Mary Ann Esposito of PBS’s popular “Ciao Italia” television show and a well-known cookbook author. Both women have had a huge impact on New Hampshire’s culture, whether by broadening our knowledge and appreciation of Italian cuisine and traditions, or introducing us to a wide range of musical performers, plays, authors and films.

“Ciao Italia with Mary Ann Esposito” is the longest-running cooking show on air and will mark 30 years in 2020. Not only is the show still going strong on PBS, but it has spun off numerous popular cookbooks as well as food-themed tours of Italy with its popular host, who is now a well-established culinary star. Esposito has appeared on the “Today” show, “Live with Regis and Kathy Lee,” “Martha Stewart,” and others.

“I grew up surrounded by strong women who were all wonderful cooks,” she recalls. “My Sicilian grandmother ran a butcher shop and the other ran a boarding house, so they were both cooking all the time. On weekends, my mother cooked for the family and everyone came over.

These were huge meals-we fed anyone who came by.”

After getting married and working as a high school teacher, Esposito visited Italy—a trip that changed her life. “I really began to appreciate the traditions that were behind Italian regional cuisine,” she says. “The quality of the food was amazing, but I was also intrigued by why certain ingredients were used and how food was prepared. There were such wonderful stories, and these recipes had been passed from generation to generation for many years. It struck me that if someone did not start sharing these recipes and these stories, that one day, they

Continued on Next Page NH Women Magazine / VOL 2 ISSUE 8/ 11

might be lost.”

She started teaching cooking classes at the University of New Hampshire, then took a chance and pitched an idea for an Italian cooking show to NHPTV. The rest is history, and Esposito went on to pave the way for other female TV chefs.

With such an extraordinary career, what fills her with the most pride?

Esposito doesn’t hesitate: “I’m proudest of the fact that because of the show and the cookbooks, these recipes will live forever. These traditions will continue to be passed along and not be lost. This is Italy’s cultural heritage and it’s important that it be preserved. The recipes, the techniques, the folklore –they matter.”

Esposito still marvels at the journey her life has taken and urges others with dreams to be bold. “Whatever idea you have, don’t let anyone tell you it can’t come to fruition,” she says. “When I pitched my TV show, I knew nothing about television, but I knew my subject matter. I had passion; I knew the idea was good, and I knew not to take ‘no’ for an answer without giving it a good try. I think anyone with a dream needs to remember that if you believe in yourself, you can make things happen.

You have to be deliberate in your planning; you have to be prepared to take the disappointments along with the successes until you get where you want to be, but don’t ever quit. Your breakthrough could be just around the corner.”

Prior to Patricia Lynch’s arrival, The Music Hall was much different than it is today. Instead of being a dynamic arts center that is the crown jewel not only of Portsmouth, but also the region, it was a building that had clearly seen better days. Instead of being an economic engine that pumps millions of dollars into the local economy, it was a nineteenth century relic with an uncertain future. Lynch has been executive director for 15 years now (and sadly, will leave the post in June). While she is the first to note that she has worked with a dedicated team of staff, directors, donors and supporters in achieving The Music Hall’s transformation, there is no question that it was Lynch’s vision and leadership that has made the Hall what it is today.

When Lynch arrived, The Music Hall was in such disrepair that it was hard

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to imagine the building as the show-stopper it is now. “Calling it a diamond in the rough would be kind,” she says. “The roof leaked and it was literally raining inside the building every time we had a storm.

There were buckets everywhere.

The plaster was crumbling and everything was painted a kind of 1970s beige. The lobby had this ugly green and white tile that couldn’t be cleaned it was so stained. The building was drafty and very cold. The lobby doors opened directly to the outside with no buffer so people standing in line froze if someone came in or went out. I was particularly struck by the fact that the theatre ceiling had, not a chandelier, but a garbage can lid behind a bulb as its lighting centerpiece.

Staff offices were upstairs with people tucked into nooks and crannies and the technology was woefully out of date--this included both the computers and the equipment needed for shows. There was clearly a lot to be done.”

Lynch came to Portsmouth from a highly successful theatrical background. Despite the Hall’s disrepair, she believed in its potential; she also saw that Portsmouth was an up-and-coming city and that the restaurant and arts scene were going to be dynamic.

“One of my strengths has always been building partnerships, and everywhere I looked I could see many potential partnerships,” Lynch states. “ I also felt that the Hall itself had more to it than met the eye.”

She quickly formed a successful partnership with New Hampshire Public Radio, which led to the popular “Writers on a New England Stage” programs; next came “Intimately Yours,” a performance series which features diverse artists not usually seen outside of Boston.

With the public now engaged, Lynch launched a successful

campaign to restore the Hall, bringing back the elegance and glamour that had captivated audiences when it was first built. Once the Historic Theatre was restored, Lynch created The Loft, a more intimate performance space that is located in a building across the street.

The Loft brings art films, edgier comedy and unique musical performance to the Seacoast, thus expanding The Music Hall’s overall offerings.

Today, The Music Hall offers special programs and clubs such as the film club, opera club and others that enrich the performance experience and bring people together. They also provide workshops with leading playwrights, authors, musicians and other performers so that knowledge is shared and new talent can benefit. Various discussion groups allow people to engage with experts as well as their peers and, like the other programs, help form personal bonds with The Music Hall.

The Hall also aids the community in tangible ways. Each year, they partner with the local nonprofit, Gather, to fill the hall with groceries, which go to those who are food insecure, especially children. More than 11 tons of food have been collected. The Hall also offers scholarships to students from Title 1 schools so they can enjoy performances they might not otherwise see. Tickets, transportation and lunch are all provided so that students can experience a marvelous day of theatre. In addition, The Music Hall gives the “gift of magic” as Lynch puts it, by partnering with Families First and Cross Roads House, to provide free tickets to the annual holiday show which is co-produced with the Ogunquit Playhouse. Without these tickets, these families could never dream of seeing such an extravaganza.

Lynch will be greatly missed as head of The Music Hall, but she leaves behind a wonderful legacy, including a venue with a great future. She plans to pursue more of her own writing and theatrical projects, noting, “I feel like I am becoming who I’m meant to be. I plan to keep on growing and changing until I become dust.”

The Philanthropist As we close out 2019, we thank all of the women who have made it a point to give back in many different ways. We take special note of Jude Blake, a longtime supporter of many varied causes.

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A Portsmouth resident, Blake has made it her personal mission to assist a number of New Hampshire nonprofits.

Among those she has helped are her beloved University of New Hampshire (UNH), The Music Hall, Cross Roads House, The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, and Families First. Although she hails from Philadelphia, Blake has long felt that New Hampshire was her “true home” thanks to wonderful years she spent at UNH. Her interest in philanthropy was nurtured by her late father, and by her time at

General Mills, where giving back was encouraged. She enjoys supporting local causes because that way, she can see the impact of her donations, and she knows that her donations make a difference. Blake doesn’t just provide financial support— she gets involved. She served on the Cross Roads House board, and is active in many leadership roles with UNH, where she also teaches business classes and mentors students. She chooses nonprofits that she believes help build community, create engaged citizens and provide critical education.

“Cross Roads House helps individuals and families get back on their feet and become contributors to the community,” she explains.

“I got involved with Families First and No Kid Hungry because kids need to be wellnourished and they need to be educated. If they do not get that good start, then their road

is that much harder.”

She chose The Children’s Museum and The Music Hall because both inspire creativity and learning and are vital components in fostering a vibrant community. “The Music Hall is the heart of Portsmouth,” she says. “Their impact is multifaceted and far-reaching.”

Closest to her heart is UNH, her alma mater and she passionately supports the University and its mission. Her generous bequest to the Peter T. Paul College supports student scholarship and programming, and she is also actively engaged in helping the Shoals Marine Lab and Northeast Passage, a UNH effort which provides adaptive sports equipment to youth and veterans. “UNH gave me my life and helped me become who I am today,” she says. “It was the start of everything. UNH is important not only for nurturing the futures of so many young people, but also as an important economic engine for the state.”

Blake hopes that others

will realize the importance of philanthropy—no matter the size of their gifts. “Giving builds communities. Supporting the arts or education, helping families—these things keep our communities and our state vibrant. Giving benefits not just the recipient but everyone.

And, it feels really good!”

New Hampshire Women has highlighted many dynamic women within its pages and in 2020 we look forward to continuing that journey.

We can’t wait to introduce the next round of Trailblazers, Adventurers and Icons who are showing the difference that strong women can make.

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NH Women Magazine / VOL 2 ISSUE 8/ 13

MAULING

Elliot Hospital: Ask the Pediatric Surgeon

Q.

Dear Dr. Soukup, My 4 month old daughter has a belly-button hernia but I am worried that it is getting larger.

Should I have it checked out?

Tracy P.

Dear Tracy, A hernia of the belly button is called an “umbilical hernia”. These are very common in babies and children and are usually first noticed soon after the umbilical cord falls off. Parents will usually notice a lump or bulge at the belly button and will sometimes refer to it as an “outie” belly button. It is most noticeable when the baby is straining or crying, but will often flatten once they quiet down.

When the baby is relaxed, you can actually feel the small ring of the hernia opening. This is the natural opening where the umbilical cord vessels connected mom to baby during development. Our bodies are programmed for this umbilical opening to close on its own after birth, and therefore the majority of umbilical hernias will go away and never need repair. Sometimes parents may notice an umbilical hernia “getting bigger” in the first months of life, as the bulge or contents of the hernia become more prominent.

Rather than looking at how big the bulge is, I actually measure an

umbilical hernia by the size of its ring opening, usually smaller than the tip of my finger, even in the “largest” hernias. This opening gets smaller with time and will usually be completely closed by kindergarten, looking like a completely normal belly button. We know that it is very safe to watch umbilical hernias as they almost never cause symptoms or problems. As with any hernia, any pain or redness should be checked out immediately by your doctor. If it is still present around age 4 or 5 years, I usually recommend repair at that time. This is a minor outpatient procedure that kids tolerate very well, resulting in a cute little “inny” belly button and a nearly invisible scar that is hidden within the belly button.

Thanks for your question!

-Dr. Soukup

Elizabeth S. Soukup, M.D., M.M.Sc. Pediatric Surgeon

Dr. Soukup is a Pediatric Surgeon at the Elliot Hospital and has an interest in educating families about pediatric health and wellness. Her mission is to provide expert specialty care for children of all ages in New Hampshire – newborns through teenagers – striving to keep them close to their families and communities. If you would like more information, call 603-663-8393 for an appointment, or visit our website at http://elliothospital.org/website/pediatric-surgery.php. Check out her previous articles at #askthepediatricsurgeon.

Dr. Soukup earned her Bachelor of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, where she received the Outstanding Achievement Award in Medicine, graduating first in her class. She completed her General Surgery training at the Massachusetts General Hospital and her fellowship in Pediatric Surgery at Children’s Hospital Boston. During her time in Boston, she also completed a Masters of Medical Sciences degree in clinical investigation

Please send your questions to: askthepediatricsurgeon@elliot-hs.org

14 / VOL 2 ISSUE 7 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE

from Harvard Medical School. She was awarded Elliot Hospital’s “Physician of the year” for 2018. She is board-certified in both Pediatric Surgery and General Surgery. She has specialized training and experience in minimally invasive surgical treatment for babies, children and teenagers. Her practice includes all areas of general pediatric surgery, including common pediatric surgical problems as well as neonatal surgery, congenital anomalies, minimally invasive surgery, and complex thoracic surgical problems.

EDUCATION COLUMN Great Holiday “Reads” To Celebrate Diversity & Multiculturalism

BY SAMANTHA WINGATE, DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AT WORLD ACADEMY

The holidays are a time to come together, share, and celebrate the joys of our world – from the things that connect us to the things that make us different. In an increasingly more complex and global world, it’s critical we provide our children with opportunities to broaden their world view and deepen their understanding of other cultures and ideas. We all have our own holiday customs, traditions, and beliefs, which makes the holiday season the perfect time for parents to encourage their children to celebrate diversity and embrace multiculturalism.

To help you enrich this joyous time of year, here are a few recommended reads that will help

your family weave the rich tapestry of other cultures and global traditions into the fabric of your own holiday celebrations: 1. Winter Candle - by Jeron Ashford Using the common thread of celebrating light in darkness, this urban tale weaves together a beautiful story of community in our diverse and multicultural world when a single, lumpy candle is passed around an apartment complex to light each family’s winter celebration and guide a new tenant home. (is this a single tenant or multiple?)

2. Lights of Winter: Winter Celebrations Around the World by Heather Conrad Also using the motif of light, this

book explores many different winter celebrations from around the world, from the familiar to the lesser known holidays, such as Teng Chieh, Soyal, and Las Posadas.

3. December’s Gift: An Interfaith Holiday Story by Ashley Smith-Santos This relatable tale follows a young girl, Clara, as she discovers the underlying meaning of both Hanukkah and Christmas through the stories, holiday memories, and cooking traditions of her two grandmothers, Bubbe and Grammy. For an added bonus, this book also includes recipes for making your own latkes and Christmas cookies, which we just happen to discuss next is

a wonderful way of introducing and celebrating diversity.

Reading stories that explore how different families express their values and beliefs will help your child develop an understanding and awareness of other cultural practices and traditions and allow them to reflect on their own. With so many wonderful multicultural and diversity-themed books available, we invite families to share (and post) their holiday favorites on our Facebook page @WorldAcademyNH.

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Is Open!

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Register,Call CallOrorVisit VisitUs UsOnline!

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ToToRegister, 603.888.1982 603.888.1982 WorldAcademyNH.com WorldAcademyNH.com 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062

NH Women Magazine / VOL 2 ISSUE 8/ 15

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Elliot at River’s Edge, 185 Queen City Avenue, Manchester, NH 03101 603-314-6450 | elliothospital.org 16 / VOL 2 ISSUE 7 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE