December 12, 2024 CI by Smckenna

The Chorale’s ‘Winter Cheer!’

Concert takes place on Dec. 14 and 15

TheConcordChorale willpresentWinter Cheer!onSaturday, Dec.14,at7p.m.,and Sunday,Dec.15,at3p.m., atSouthChurch,27 PleasantSt.,Concord.This festiveconcertwillfeature seasonalmusicperformed bytheChorale,accompaniedbyabrassquintetand ThePurpleFinchesyouth choirfromtheConcord CommunityMusicSchool. Theprogramcelebrates winterandthejoythatcan befoundduringthecolder months.TheChoralehopes toupliftitsaudiencewith

piecessuchasJohnRutter’s WhenIciclesHang,Bob Chilcott’sWenceslas,anda varietyoftraditional carols.

ThePurpleFinches,directedbyMariaIsaak,will performtwopiecesindependentlyandjointhe ChoraleforChilcott’s Wenceslas.Inthispiece, membersofThePurple Fincheswillsingthepartof thePage,soloistsfromthe Choralewillperformthe roleofKingWenceslas,and theensemblewillprovide thechoralparts.

Ahighlightoftheconcert isthesongTheLesson, whichincludestheline,“I cancheeranothersoulbya carol’ssimpleart.”ThissentimentreflectstheConcord Chorale’saimtobring

warmthandjoytoitsaudience,evenduringthe darkestdaysoftheyear.

Foundedin1969,the ConcordChoraleisanauditionedvocalensemblecommittedtoexcellencein choralmusicperformance. Itsmissionistoenrichthe culturallifeofitscommunitythroughadiverse repertoireandhigh-quality musicalexperiences.

TicketsforWinterCheer! areavailableonlineatconcordchorale.org/ticketsor fromChoralemembers.AdmissionisfreeforK-12students.

Foraneveningofmusic andcommunity,jointhe ConcordChoraleandThe PurpleFinchesincelebratingthebeautyofthe winterseason.

Local director captures New England history

By JAY CRAVEN

I’llplaymynewfilm, “LostNation,”atConcord’s RedRiverTheatres,Dec.13 throughDec.19.ThepictureisaRevolutionaryWareraactiondramasetinthe earlyupstartRepublicof Vermont–whichconsidereditself,crucially,asa vitalpartoftheProvinceof NewHampshire,uptothe momentofVermont’s foundinganddeclarationas anindependentrepublicin onJan.15,1777.

Isay“crucially”because thisterritory,betweenthe ConnecticutRiverandLake Champlain,washotlycontested–betweenNew HampshireandNewYork, atthattime.

Wealthysemi-feudalNew Yorklandholderslikethe

RensselaersandVanCortlandtsclaimedtoowntracts of300,000and400,000 acresinthisterritory–land thattheyhad,forthemost part,neverevenseen.Identifyingthislackofsettlementasanopportunity, NewHampshireGovernor BenningWentworth(17411766)claimedthissame landinhishighlycontroversialefforttoexpandthebordersofhisprovince.

Wentworthbeganselling 50and100-acreparcelsto poorfarmersandsettlers, manyofthemveteransof theFrenchandIndianWars, whoreturnedhometo southernNewEnglandand foundthegoodproperties alreadytaken.Wentworth chartered131townsinthe territory–includinghis

namesake,Bennington.He keptapieceofeachnew municipality’slandanda shareofthecashproceeds forhimself.

Royalcourtsruledin favorofNewYork–but Wentworthpersisted,and thesettlersclaimedtheir NewHampshireGrantsas thebasisforaprotracted armedconflictandland struggleagainstNewYork. ThisNewHampshire/New York/Vermontconflictwas oneofthreeduringthis time,theotherstakingplace inNorthCarolinaandthe HudsonRiverValley.Itwas theonlyonewherethepoor settlersprevailed.

“LostNation”features Vermontfoundingfather andrebelschemer,Ethan Allen,wholeadsNew HampshireGrantsresis-

tancetoNewYorkerland claims,launchesanill-fated attackonBritishforcesin Montreal,andleadsinvasionsbyhisGreenMountainBoysintoYorker strongholdsofGuilfordand Brattleboro.

“LostNation’s”parallel andintersectingstoryalso featurespioneeringpoet, LucyTerryPrince,whowas enslavedattheageof3in westernMassachusetts–and,usingaNewHampshire grant,settledaGuilford homesteadwithherfamily duringthissametime.

LikeEthanAllen,the Princesfoundthemselves caughtupinturbulenttimes thatthreatenedtheir prospectsforthelandand freedomtheysought.In thosedays,landwaseverything–ameasureofstatus, standingandachancefor prosperityandcommunity engagement.

LikeEthanAllen,Lucy Princeupsetthestatusquo inherassertiveuseofearly Vermont’slegalandpolitical systems.Ethandidittopush backNewYorklandclaims topropertyintheGreen Mountains.Lucydiditto defendherfamilyandsecuretheirhomestead.

Ourtourisstillnew–we’llplay100NewEngland towns.We’vebeenattractingsolidcrowds.AndI hadanencouragingsign whiledrivinglastsummer tosouthernNewEnglandto seeNeilYounginconcert. NearAmherst,Igota randomcallonmycellphone.Iexpectedittobea junkcallbutagravellyvoice ontheotherendofthecall seemedreal.

“IsthisJay?”

“Itis,”Isaid,stillexpectingtobeofferedanew optionforMedicare.

“Myname’sBob…”the mansaid,barelypausingfor breath,“…inSt.Louis.AndI nevercallpeopleaboutthis butI’moneoftheprescreenersfortheSt,Louis FilmFestivalandIwatched yourfilm,“LostNation,”last nightandit’sthebestfilm I’veeverseeninmylife.”

“Wow,”Isaid.“Thanksa lot.Andthanksfortaking thetimetocall.”

“Noproblem,”hesaid.“I justloveyourfilm.Butthat doesn’tmeanitwillactually beprogrammed.Ihaveno controloverthat.”

“Igetit.ButcanIuseyour quoteonourposter?”Isaid, halfjoking.“TheBestFilm I’veEverSeen.”-Bobfrom St.Louis.

Webothlaughed.

Wedrewourfilmresearchfrom162books–I knowbecausewerecently donatedthemtotheSt. JohnsburyAcademylibrary inVermont’sNortheast Kingdom.Buthistorical filmsarealwaysfictionalbecause,nomatterhowmuch researchyoudo,youcan neverknowtheindividual momentsofanhistorical character’slife.Eachof themdidandsaidthings we’llneverknowabout–eventhemodernones. Whenyougoback250 years–anythingcouldhave happened.Thatsaid,every dramaticbeatinthefilm wasmeasuredagainstthe research.

Iwasfirstdrawntothe EthanAllenstoryin1974,

‘Lost Nation’ to play at Red River

afterIbrokemyrightarm bailingoutofarunaway farmtruckandspent winterafternoonsatthe VermontHistoricalSociety researchroom,scrawling handwrittennoteson yellowlegalpads.Now,50 yearslater,I’mtakingthis longimaginedbutnewly producedfilmontheroad.

With“LostNation,”I tookwhatIlearnedfrom historicalresearchtobuild asometimes-surprising story.Onerevelation–just theamountofturbulence, strifeanddramaticaction duringthelate18thcentury,inthisregion,from whippingsandlandconfiscationstofiressettosettle politicalscores.Ethan Allenledtwoinvasions intosoutheasternVermont towns,arrestingsettlers whosupportedNewYork. Thewildwesthadnothing onwhathappenedinour regionduringthistime.

Ihopedtocaptureanindeliblemomentthatshows

thecomplexityandpower ofanearlyversionofthe “AmericanDream”–and thepromiseoftheAmericanRevolution.

Thisfilmwasquitechallengingtoproduce,becauseitwasfilmedonmore than40locations,needed toincludebattlescenes, andhas43speakingparts forcharactersincluding EthanAllen,GeorgeWashington,Alexander Hamilton,andmore.One funfact:Bostonpatriot SamuelAdamsisplayedin thefilmbyhisactualdirect descendent,Samuel Adams.

Financingtheprojectwas alsodifficult,withextensivegrass-roots fundraising,includinga $100,000Kickstartercampaignandaverygenerous benefitconcertperformed forusinBurlingtonby Grammy-winning singer/songwriterJackson Browne.Itisalsoimportant tonotetheIproducedthe filmthroughmySemester

Cinemaproject,where30 professionalsmentorand collaboratewith45professionals,tomakeanambitious,fully-professional filmfornationalrelease.

So,thiswasaverydifficultproject.TheBritish playwrightandfilmdirector,DavidHare,stopped makingfilmsbecausehe saidhisbestexperiences onafilmsetalwaysmeant thefilmwouldfail–and themostdifficulttimesindicatedsurefiresuccess.

I’vegotmyfingers crossed.

“LostNation,”willbe screenedfromFriday,December13ththrough Thursday,December19th attheRedRiverTheatresin Concord,NH.DirectorJay Cravenwillleadpost-filmQ &Adiscussionsthe showsthattakeplaceSaturday,December14th,at 6:45pmandSunday,December15that1:15pmand 4pm.Moreinformationis availableat www.redrivertheatres.com.

Gibson’s to host author event concord

LlewellynWorldwide authorSallyCraginwill discusstheannual MoonSignAlmanac,and speakaboutthenewandfull moonphasesin2025,onJan. 8.Themoonisfull–things arealittlecrazy.Themoonis new–everyoneisalittlelost. Whenisthebesttimeto clean?Tothrowaparty?To quitabadhabit–andnotgo back?Thephasesofthe moongoverntheheightand intensityoftides,andare helpfulfortakingmanyactionsinlife.Ifyouknowyour sunsign,youcanfine-tune decision-makingduring lunarphases.

Abouttheauthor:Sally CraginistheauthorofThe

AstrologicalElementsand AstrologyOnTheCusp (LlewellynWorldwide),sold innumerouscountriesoverseasanddomestically.She writes“NewandFullMoon Forecasts”forLlewellyn’s MoonSignAlmanacevery year.Sallyteacheswriting, folklore,historyandtheatre atFitchburgStateUniversity,andisanaward-winning journalist.Sheregularly teachesatCambridgeCenter forAdultEducation.Sheis alsoaCouncilor-at-largefor theCityofFitchburg,MA. Theeventtakesplace Wednesday,January8,2025, at6:30p.m.,atGibson’s Bookstore,45S.MainSt., Concord.

Nature Conservancy hosts Winter Solstice Soiree

TheNatureConservancy inNewHampshirewillhost itsannualWinterSolstice CelebrationonThursday, Dec.19,from4to7p.m.at itsnewofficesinsideThe HotelConcord,locatedat 11SouthMainSt.,Concord.

Theeventmarksthe shortestdayoftheyearand offersanopportunitytocelebratetheseasonwith friends,food,andfun. Guestscandropinanytime duringtheopen-house-style gatheringtoenjoydrinks, lightappetizers,andholiday cheer.Thefirstdrinkis complimentary,withacash baravailableforadditional beverages.

Thisfreeeventinvitesnatureenthusiastsandcommunitymemberstomingle, exploretheConservancy’s

newofficespace,andcelebratethepartnershipsand sharedcommitmenttoconservationthatdefinetheorganization’smission. WhileRSVPsarenotrequired,theyareappreciated.GuestscanRSVPonlinetohelpwithplanning. Parkingisavailableon MainStreetandinnearby garages,includingtheCapitalCommonsGarageat75

StorrsStreet,locateddirectlybehindTheHotel Concord.Foradditional parkingoptions,visitthe CityofConcord’swebsite. Formoreinformationor toRSVP,visitTheNature ConservancyinNew Hampshire’swebsite.Celebratethesolsticeandthe seasonwithfellownature loversindowntownConcord.

Cold out? It’s warm in the theater

RedRiverTheatresin downtownConcordhas beenbusywithmoviesthat takeyoufromthebackyard toadifferentworld.ArecentshowingofTheRide AheadtoldthestoryofConcord’sSamuelHabib,a21year-oldwithadis-

abilityitchingtomoveout, startacareer,andfindlove. Thetheaterhasalsobeen showingWicked,theblockbusterthat’sdominatingthe headlines.

Butwhatelseisontapthis holidayseason?Here’sa quicklook:

Elf

Saturday,Dec.14at10 a.m.

Sunday,Dece.15at10 a.m.

Don’tbeacotton-headed ninny-muggins!Bringthe wholefamilytoseeWill Ferrell’siconicChristmas comedyonthebigscreen. Withtwochancestoseeit, there’snoexcusetomiss thefun.

Mufasa

OpensFriday,Dec.20

Discovertheuntoldstory ofMufasa’searlylife.Asa youngorphanedcub,MufasameetsTaka,heirtoa royalbloodline,sparkinga journeythatwillshapetheir destiniesforever.

A Complete Unknown

OpensFriday,Dec.25

TimothéeChalametstars

asayoungBobDylaninthis dramasetin1961New York.WitnessDylan’srise fromenigmaticMinnesota musiciantooneof America’smostinfluential culturalicons.

Babygirl

OpensWed.,Dec.25 NicoleKidmanstarsasa high-poweredCEOrisking itallforasteamyaffairwith ayoungerintern. CatchitattheJaclynSimchikMemorialCinema.

Don your tartan and join us for a family-friendly New Year’s celebration with live entertainment, hands-on activities, spirited competitions (indoors & out), campfires with s’mores, a cash bar, and more!

MACALL POLAY/SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES VIA AP

Timothée Chalamet stars as Bob Dylan in a scene from “A Complete Unknown.”

Mill Falls at the Lake to Host Breakfast with Santa

MillFallsatthe Lakein Meredithinvites familiestojoinBreakfast withSantaonSaturday, Dec.14.Thisnewholidayeventoffersafestivemorningofdeliciousfood,cheerfulactivities,andamagical visitfromSantaClausin abeautifullydecorated setting.

Theeventwillfeaturea holidaybreakfastbuffet, ornament-making,and cookiedecorating,providingfunforallages. Childrenwillhavethe chancetosharetheir Christmaswisheswith Santa,andfamiliescan capturethemomentwith photosinafestiveback-

drop,creatingcherished memories.

“BreakfastwithSantais ahighlightoftheholiday season,”saidBarbara Beckwith,GeneralManageratMillFallsatthe Lake.“It’sawonderfulopportunityforfamiliesto cometogether,celebrate traditions,andenjoythe magicofChristmasinthe heartofMeredith.”

Locatedinawinter wonderlandsetting,the eventisdesignedtocreate animmersiveholidayexperience.Familiescan enjoythefestiveatmospherewhileconnecting withthespiritofthe season.

TicketsforBreakfast withSantaare$25per

adult(ages13andup), $15perchild(ages3-12), and$5forinfantsand toddlers(ages2and under).Seatingislimited, andreservationsare highlyrecommended. Formoreinformationor toreserveyourspot,visit millfalls.comorcontact theEKALActivityCenter at603-677-8646.

MillFallsattheLake,locatedinMeredith,offersa varietyofexperiencesina charminglakesidesetting. Thisholidayevent promisestobringthejoy ofChristmastolifefor familiesandchildrenof allages.Don’tmissthe chancetocreatespecial holidaymomentsatthis memorableevent.

Vintage Vocal Quartet to perform on Dec.

HermitWoodsWinery& EateryinMeredithwillhost theVintageVocalQuartet foraneveningofvintage harmonyandswingonSaturday,Dec.14.Theperformancewilltakeplaceinthe winery’sLoftListening Room,offeringanintimate venueforanup-closemusicalexperience.

EventDetails

■ Date:Saturday,Dec.14

■ Location:Hermit WoodsWinery&Eatery,72 MainSt.,Meredith

■ Schedule:Complimentarywinetastingat5:30 p.m.,doorsopenat6p.m., dinnerserviceendsat7 p.m.,showbeginsat7p.m.

TheVintageVocal Quartetchannelsthegolden ageofbigbandmusic, drawinginspirationfrom legendssuchasGlenn Miller’sModernaires,the AndrewsSisters,andNat KingCole.Theensemble combinestightvocalharmonieswithliveinstrumen-

tation,featuringTaylor O’Donnellonpianoandlead vocals,DavidThorneScott onbassandaltovocals, AdamGautilleontrumpet andtenorvocals,andPaul Pampinellaonguitarand baritonevocals.Together, theydeliveraperformance filledwithtimelessclassics andheartfeltrenditions, evokingtheenergyandeleganceoftheswingera.

TheLoftatHermitWoods Wineryprovidesaunique listeningroomatmosphere, designedtoenhancethe connectionbetweenartists andaudiences.Guestsare encouragedtoarriveearly toenjoyacomplimentary winetastinganddinnerbeforetheshow.Oncethe musicbegins,theintimate spaceoffersafocused,immersiveexperience,setting itapartfromlargervenues. Ticketsforthismemorableeventareavailableonline,withrefundsofferedup tofivedaysbeforetheper-

formance.Formoreinformationortopurchase tickets,visithermitwoods.com.Don’tmissthis opportunitytocelebratethe musicofabygoneerainan exceptionalsetting.

Annie, Gracie & Coltrane, Barkley, Abbey Road, Bella, Bella Raimer, Benji the Basenji, Brady Raimer, Bridget Dias-Solomon, Emma Lu, Frisky, Meep & Hobbes, Lulu, Nee Nee, Nikki, Polly, Ruby, Sassy, Scruffy, Shadeau & Ali

Arany, Katie, Oliver, Zena and Zeus

Albert & Marjorie Clark, Bob Egan, Beanie Hall, Carl Bernard, Carolyn Bunnell, Clifford Simonds, David and Kevin Romanoff, Dale F Hall, Deidre Romeo, Doris Resatka-Thomas, Gerald Drew, Jacquelyn Greene, Jonathan Miller, Laura M Hall, Mollie, Arella, Maya & Hickey, Phyllis Benoit, Rickey Newman, Shirley Hebert, Tom Ferguson, William G Hilton Jr ta, te ey wman, uson,

Downtown Concord

Always remember that YOUR support makes it possible for the Capitol Center for the Arts and BNH Stage to offer a diverse and engaging selection of world-class performing arts to this community. Become a member or gift one today!

Featuring a delightful selection of gifts, clothing and imported foods from over twelve European countries...at Viking House you’re bound to nd the perfect gift for that special someone with a are for all things Europe.

At Goldsmiths Gallery, you will nd ne jewelry by recognized designer jewelers, as well as classic designs and custom work by our designers. Explore the artists for your special gift.

Roy's Nails, proudly family owned and operated for more than 10 years and always one of the Cappies Best Pedicure and Manicure Spa Salons. For the holidays , make an appointment today!

Celebrating her rst full year on Main Street is She's A Lady, a unique boutique featuring timeless fashions with a modern edge. For the perfect t in clothing and accessories, this is the place for your new go-to pieces.

Wine on Main - An experience for everyone with curated wines from around the world, wine classes, tastings, events, alcohol-free offerings, and gifts. Join us for a FREE holiday wine tasting Saturday December 14, 1-4pm.

Since 1927 Granite State Candy Shoppe has been delighting customers with homemade chocolates, candies and nuts, prepared daily the old-fashioned way with original recipes and candy making techniques.

For more than 40 years, Britches of Concord has provided tailored clothing, sportswear, and accessories for men and women with the quality, selection, and service that provides the value of Your Personal Haberdashery.

Cobblestone Flowers & Gifts offers only the nest quality fresh owers available, along with a wide selection of giftware imported from around the world for a fun shopping experience with superb customer service.

Indigo Blues & Co. is a jeans boutique and more. For the clothes you live in and the gifts she'll love to receive. You'll nd clothes, jewelry and accessories that not only make you look good but feel good too.

Fabulous Looks Boutique offers a wide variety of beautiful clothes, 15 cases of stunning jewelry, art-inspired accessories, and whimsical gifts for the stylish person on your list.

It all starts with a story at Gems First, where the focus is on ne jewelry, from appraisals and repairs to custom design and reconstructions with an eye for gemology and unique character.

$500 gift card Christmas CONCORD re-gift

Concord Holiday Spree!

away!

Register Win

$500 card for Christmas IN CONCORD

GREETINGS FROM CONCORD BUSINESSES HERE

Wrap Up The Season Right Here!

Simply Birkenstock provides you with the best in BIRKENSTOCK footwear and a selection of notable apparel and accessory brands that share our commitment to comfort and quality.

At United Shoe Repair you’ll nd the quality cobbler work you've come to expect with a growing selection of unique nds like Duckfeet boots, Boston Scally hats, and unique NH shirts.

Concord Food Co-op is a member-owned grocery store, bakery, and café focused on natural, local, and organic foods. Everyone is welcome to shop at the Co-op - no membership required!

Root Up Concord, your one-stop metaphysical store, has a fantastic new location next door to Joe Kings with all of your favorite metaphysical products, authentic crystals, and personal care!

Go Native Gallery has an exquisite selection of oil on canvas artwork, marvelous pottery and home decor, and hand woven silk embroidered rugs that simply must be seen to be believed.

At Hilltop Consignment, you’ll nd unique items like vintage clothes, accessories, one-of-akind pieces, and items no longer available in retail stores at a fraction of the original price.

Constantly Pizza combines a passion for good food with generations of Italian family recipes to provide you with the best meal in town. For gift cards or for the ultimate meal catering, call today!

DIY Craft & Thrift is a creative reuse store, accepting donations of used arts and craft supplies. Stop in for all your creative needs, or snag a gift card for someone special!

Since 1898, Gibsons Bookstore has brought the community the best in intelligent entertainment. There’s something for everyone with books, cards, gifts, and toys.

Detailed Stained Glass offers glass, tools and supplies, classes, custom work, and handcrafted gifts by American artists like ornaments, vases, kaleidoscopes, paperweights and suncatchers.

Capitol Craftsman and Romance Jewelers is most proud of its 45+ year tradition of providing the most exciting collections of expertly handcrafted jewelry and gifts from hundreds of American craftspeople.

And of course, the experienced and friendly staff at Joe Kings are available to assist each customer in nding the best t and style of shoes for anyone on your list. Also with gift cards in any amount.

Rae Easter supports the music community concord

ConcordYoungProfessionalsNetwork(CYPN)introducesyoutothe“Young ProfessionaloftheMonth,” RaeEaster.Eachmonth,the CYPNSteeringCommittee recommendsanindividual inthecommunityitthinks readerswouldenjoygetting toknowbetter. Howoldareyou?29. Wheredoyoulive? Manchester.

Tellusalittlebitabout yourselfandwhatyoudo.I amDevelopmentManager attheCapitolCenterforthe Arts,whereI’vebeenfor justabouttwoyears.Ilove developmentworkandthe wayitconnectsmewithso manydifferentpeople. Beingamusicalpersonmy wholelife,Ireallybelievein theCCA’smissiontobring high-qualityperformances andentertainmenttoeveryoneinthecommunity.

What’syourfavoritepart ofyourworkday?Ilove helpingmydonorswith ticketorders.It’salotoffun tolearnwhatkindof

shows/artistspeoplelike, andtheyoftensurpriseme! Gettingtoknowtheirfavoriteseatsinthetheater, wholikestopickuptickets inpersonattheBoxOffice, etc. itallmakestheconnectionwithoursupporters morepersonalandgratifying.

Whatorganizationsare youinvolvedwith?Singing isahugepartofmylife,and Isingwithtwochoirsin Concord.Iamasingerin theConcordChorale,where IamaBoardmemberas wellasChairofthe FundraisingCommittee.I alsosingasasectionleader withthechoiratSt.Paul’s EpiscopalChurch.I’mso gratefulforbothopportunitiestobeapartofthemusic communityinConcord. Wheredidyougoto school?IgrewupinMerrimack,NHandwenttoMastricolaElementarySchool, thenstayedintheMerrimackschoolsystemthrough toMerrimackHighSchool.I attendedEndicottCollegein

Beverly,MAwhereIgraduatedwithaBAinLiberal StudiesandminoredinEnglish.

What’syourfavorite placetogoinConcord?I lovevisitingPenumbra.It alwaysbrightensmydayto stopbyandfindanewplant oragiftforafriend.It’sa businessIlovetoshow peoplewhoarenewtoor visitingConcord.

Whatdoyouliketodo forfun?InmyfreetimeI lovesinging,baking,exercising,goingtothemovies, andspendingtimewith friendsandfamily.Ilove livingclosetomynieceand nephewandbeingapartof theirlivesastheygrowup. Whowouldyoureally liketomeet?Iwouldloveto meetClaireSaffitz.Her cookbooksandcooking videosreallysparkedmy loveofbaking,andher YouTubechannelisacomfortwatchforme.

Howdidyoufindout aboutCYPNandhowhasit benefittedyourbusinessor

Courtesy

Rae Easter

youpersonally?Ifoundout aboutCYPNthroughmy previousjobandattended myfirsteventsacouple yearsago.WhenIwasnew totheConcordarea,CYPN

reallyhelpedmemeetnew peersandgetoutofmy comfortzone.Ithelpedme developmynetworking skills,aswellaslearnabout neworganizations,businesses,andopportunitiesin Concord.CYPNhostssome ofitseventsattheBNH Stage,whichisagreatopportunityfortheCapitol Centertoreachnewaudiencesandshareourspace. TheGreaterConcord ChamberofCommerceand CYPNarejoiningforcesfor theirannualholidaynetworkingpartyonTuesday, December10.VisittheGrapponeConferenceCenter, whichwillbesparklingwith holidaydécor.TheDuprey Companieswillpresenta spreadoffestivetreatsforyou toenjoywhilenetworking. Thebestpart?We’rewaiving theregistrationfeesothat youcansupporttheCapital RegionFoodProgramwitha monetarygift!Learnmore andsignupforallCYPN eventsatconcordnhchamber.com.

Seamus Egan’s Celtic Christmas wolfeboro

Live music on Dec. 14

TheWolfeboroFriends ofMusicwillhost SeamusEgan’sGood Winter:ACelticChristmas onSaturday,Dec.14,at7 p.m.Theconcertwillbe heldattheFirstCongregationalChurch,SouthMain Street,Wolfeboro.

SeamusEgan,arenowned figureintraditionalIrish musicandfounderoftheacclaimedbandSolas,will performwithhisensemble, TheSeamusEganProject. Knownforredefiningthe soundofIrishmusic,Egan andhisgroupblendfiddle, flute,whistle,guitar,banjo, piano,andaccordionwith vocalstocreateadynamic celebrationoftheholiday season.

Theperformancewillfeatureamixofseasonalsongs, originalworks,traditional

Irishmusic,poetry,and spokenword,weavinga joyfulandintimatenarrative.Theeventaimstocelebratetradition,ritual,and collectivememory,themes centraltotheChristmas season.

Theconcertisthefourth intheWolfeboroFriendsof Music’snine-performance season,marking89yearsof bringingartisticexcellence toNewHampshire’sLakes Region.

Ticketsare$37.50and canbepurchasedat wfriendsofmusic.org,by calling603-569-2151,orat thedooronthedayofthe event.Highschoolstudents withIDandchildrenaccompaniedbyanadultticket purchaserwillbeadmitted free.

Formoreinformation, visitwfriendsofmusic.org Celebratetheholiday seasonwithaneveningof vibrantCelticmusicand storytelling.

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A Senior Living Community

Active seniors

Granite Ledges of Concord

our

independence,

Dec. 12

■ Concord Handmade Pop-Up Shop: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Join Concord Handmade for handmade goods from 30+ artists local to New England. Open at 3 Bicentennial Sq, Concord. Contact concordhandmade@gmail.com.

■ Crafting Joy: The Art of Optimism Exhibition: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 49 South Main St., Suite 100, Concord.

■ Game On!: 10:30 a.m. Free. Concord Public Library, 45 Green St., Concord. jsalemy@concordnh.gov.

■ Peter Yarrow: 7 p.m. Bank of New Hampshire Stage, 16 South Main St., Concord.

■ Peter Yarrow with Mustard’s Retreat: 7 p.m. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord.

Dec. 13

■ Anya Marina & Nikki Glaser: 7 p.m. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord.

■ Crafting Joy: The Art of Optimism Exhibition: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 49 South Main St., Suite 100, Concord.

■ Monthly Matinees: 2 p.m. Free. Concord Public Library, 45 Green St., Concord. Contact jsalemy@concordnh.gov.

■ Nikki Glaser: 9:30 p.m. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord.

■ “The Nutcracker: Act II:” 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free. Memorial Hall at St. Paul’s School, 325 Pleasant St., Concord. 603-229-4644. Contact arts@sps.edu.

Dec. 14

■ 54th annual Festival of Lessons and Carols: 4 to 5:30 p.m. Free. St. Paul’s School Chapel of St. Peter and St. Paul, 325 Pleasant St., Concord.

■ Anya Marina & Nikki Glaser: 7 p.m. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord.

and seniors. Concord Community Music School, 23 Wall St., Concord. Contact reception@ccmusicschool.org.

■ Holiday Tea with Sugar Plum Fairy and friends: 2 to 4 p.m. Join Sugar Plum Fairy at Kimball Jenkins for holiday tea. To purchase tickets, visit https://form.jotform.com/242986679011062.

$35 - $40. Kimball Jenkins, Inc., 266 North Main St., Concord. 603-2052774. martha@kimballjenkins.com.

■ Meet Santa at The Paper Store!: 10 a.m. to noon. Free. The Paper Store, 68 Fort Eddy Rd., Concord. (603) 225-6767.

rium, 2 Prince St., Concord. 603485-8710. TPCD@comcast.net.

■ “The Nutcracker: Act II:” 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free. Memorial Hall at St. Paul’s School, 325 Pleasant St., Concord. 603-229-4644. Contact arts@sps.edu.

■ Safe Haven Ballet w/ The Nutcracker: 4:30 p.m. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord.

■ Storytime Stations at the Heights: 9:30 a.m. Free. Heights Branch Library, 14 Canterbury Rd., Concord. jsalemy@concordnh.gov.

■ TAY: Taylor Swift dance night: 7 p.m. Bank of New Hampshire Stage, 16 South Main St., Concord.

■ December Moonlight Group Hike: 6 p.m. Merrimack River Greenway Trail, Sunflower Section - 4 Loudon Rd., Concord.

■ Holiday Folk Concert: 7 to 9 p.m. $20 - $25. $20 for students

■ Meeting of the Nerds: Chill Out: 1 p.m. Join us for our final UBN meeting of 2024! Chill out, warm up with a hot chocolate, and discuss your favorite books of the year. Free. Concord Public Library, 45 Green St., Concord. Contact jsalemy@concordnh.gov.

■ Moonlight Group Hike at MRGT Sunflower Fields: 6 p.m. 4 Loudon Rd., 6 Loudon Rd., Concord.

■ Mr. Aaron: 11 a.m. BNH Stage, 16 South Main St., Concord.

■ “The Nutcracker:” 2 to 4 p.m. $23 - $25. Concord City Audito-

■ What The Dance & 22 & good 4 u: 7 p.m. Bank of New Hampshire Stage, 16 South Main St., Concord.

■ Winter Cheer: Concord Chorale with Purple Finches: 7 p.m. Festive December Concert of Concord Chorale, featuring Chorus and Brass Quintet, and including young voices of Purple Finches $25. Students with ID Free as well as one adult accompanying. South Congregational Church, 27 Pleasant St., Concord. info@concordchorale.org.

calendar book of the week

■ Wreaths Across America in Concord Cemeteries: 9 a.m. to noon. Concord.

Dec. 15

■ A Who-Ville Christmas: 2 to 4 p.m. Join the Grinch at Kimball Jenkins for a fun afternoon. Purchase tickets at https://form.jotform.com/242986679011062. $35 - $40. Kimball Jenkins, 266 North Main St., Concord. 603-2253932. Contact martha@kimballjenkins.com.

■ Mary Fahl (former lead singer of October Project) & Mary Fahl: 3 p.m. Bank of New Hampshire Stage, 16 South Main St, Concord.

■ “The Nutcracker: Act II:” 3 to 4 p.m. Free. Memorial Hall at St. Paul’s School, 325 Pleasant St., Concord. 603-229-4644. arts@ sps.edu.

■ Safe Haven Ballet with “How the Grinch Stole Christmas:” 4:30 p.m. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord.

■ Winter Cheer: Concord Chorale with Purple Finches: 3 p.m. Festive December Concert of Concord Chorale, featuring Chorus and Brass Quintet, and including young voices of Purple Finches $25. Students with ID Free as well as one adult accompanying. South Congregational Church, 27 Pleasant St., Concord. Contact info@concordchorale.org.

■ Wintersongs: Mary Fahl, formerly of October Project, with Band: 3 to 5 p.m. Mary Fahl, formerly of October Project, with Band presents “WINTER SONGS,” $44 - $60. Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St., Concord. 603-225-1111.

Dec.

■ Concord Crafting Joy: The Art of Optimism Exhibition: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 49 South Main St., Suite 100, Concord.

■ Peace & Justice Conversations:1 Media Madness: Staying Informed: 7 to 8 p.m. Free. Concord. (603) 228-0559. Contact doreen@nhpeaceaction.org.

“Last One at the Wedding,” by Jason Rekulak

(2024,352pages,Genre:Thriller, Suspense)

LastOneattheWeddingisa captivatingdomesticthriller thatissuretokeepyouatthe edgeofyourseatforall352 pages.

FrankSzatowskiandhisdaughter, Maggie,havebeengoingthrougha bitofaroughpatch.Athree-yearlong,not-even-on-speaking-terms roughpatch.Ithasn’tbeeneasyfor Frank,buthewantstorespecther

wishesandleaveherbe. Outoftheblueoneday,Frank getsaphonecallfromMaggie.Heis shocked,tosaytheleast, andevenmoresowhen Maggiesharesthatsheis gettingmarriedandwants herfathertowalkherdown theaisle.Frankexcitedly agrees,andbeginsthetrek fromPennsylvaniatoOspreyCove,NewHampshire withhissisterandherfoster daughter.

Thevenueisstunning.Setona beautifullakewithanearbyforest andsprawlingcabinsthroughoutfor theweddingguests,whatmore

couldFrankaskforhisonlychild’s wedding?Theillusionremainsas moreguestsstartarriving,butallis shatteredwhenoneofthose gueststurnupdead.There areover300peopleinattendanceforthewedding. Couldoneofthembewho isresponsibleforthecrime? Couldthisperfect,well-endowedfamilythatMaggieis marryingintonotbesoperfectafterall?

VisitConcordPublicLibraryatwww.concordpubliclibrary.net

Lauren Porter

st. paul’ s school

Dining hall renovations complete

NorthBranchConstructionispleased toannouncethe successfulcompletionof severalrenovationsatSt. Paul’sSchoolinConcord. Therenovations,which tookplaceoverthe summer,focusedonthe CoitDiningHallandaimed toenhancethediningexperienceforstudentsand staff.

Theprojectincludeda comprehensiverangeofupgradesandimprovements, beginningwiththeinstallationofanewepoxyfloorin thedishroom.Thisdurable andeasy-to-maintain flooringsolutionhelps streamlineoperationsand

improvecleanlinessinone ofthebusiestareasofthe dininghall.Inthekitchen area,NorthBranchConstructionfacilitatedcritical mechanicalandelectrical upgradestosupportnew kitchenandserviceequipment.Theseupgradeswere designedtoimproveefficiency,safety,andthe abilitytohandleincreased foodpreparationdemands. Anewfoodstorageroom wasbuiltandfinishedinthe MiddleDiningHall.This newspaceoffersenhanced storagecapacity,ensuring thatSt.Paul’sSchoolcan bettermanagefoodinventoryandsupplyforits diningservices.Thecorri-

dorsofCoitDiningHall wereupdatedwithnewfinishesandtrimwork,creatingarefreshed,modern aestheticthroughoutthe space.Theseupdatescontributetotheoverallfunctionalityandvisualappeal ofthedininghall.

“Wearepleasedtohave partneredwithSt.Paul’s Schooltocompletethese essentialrenovations,”said JosephH.Campbell,PresidentofNorthBranchConstruction.“Theimprovementswe’vemadetothe CoitDiningHallwillhelp theSt.Paul’sSchoolcommunityprovideexcellent servicetostudentsandstaff foryearstocome.”

JohnLangdon,amerchant, gathersindowntown Portsmouthinresponseto Britishstrong-armtactics, includingabanontheimportationofgunsand powder.Thecrowdignores theroyalgovernor’sefforts todisperseitandmarches onFortWilliamandMary, wherethegarrisonofsix Britishsoldierswiselysurrenders.Thecrowdhauls downtheBritishcolorsand carriesoff100barrelsof gunpowder,someofwhich willbeusedintheBattleof BunkerHill.

Dec,14,1799:Tobias LearofPortsmouth,hired byGeorgeWashingtonin 1784tomanagehisland,is atWashington’ssidewhen hediesatMountVernon.“I amjustgoing,”Washington saystoLear.“Havemedecentlyburied.Doyouunderstandme?”“Yes,sir,” Learreplies.”‘Tiswell,” Washingtonsays.Learis holdingWashington’shand whenhedies.

Dec.14,1984:Thesix NewEnglandgovernors agreetosupportauniform drinkingageof21.Only RhodeIsland’siscurrently 21.NewHampshire’sis20.

Dec.14,1880:Morethan 300peopleshowupfora holidayleveeinContoocook.JamesO’Connor winsfirstprizeinthe drawing:abarrelofflour. Otherprizesincludeawhip, ahorseblanketandabuffalorobe.

Dec.15,2001:Regularly scheduledAmtrakservice fromPortlandtoBoston, withthreestopsinNew Hampshire,begins,marking thereturnofpassenger trainsaftera36-yearabsence.

Dec.15,1999:Gilmanton PoliceChiefBudSalmonretiresafter15½yearsas chief,promptingmanywho knowhimtopraisethetone hesetforthedepartment. “Somepeoplejokethatit’s Mayberryouthere,”Sgt. VinnieBaiocchettisays.“If that’strue,givemeMay-

berry.”

Dec.15,1774:Onthe thirddayofunrestin Portsmouthsincethe warningvisitofPaulRevere,MajorJohnSullivanof Durhamridesinwithanothermobofdefenders.

Uponlearningthatwordof theapproachofBritish troopsisafalserumor,the crowdagreestodisperse.It renegesonthispromise, however,marchingthat nighttoFortWilliamand MaryatNewCastleand haulingoff16cannonsand 60muskets.

Dec.15,1836:TheLegislaturevotestoacceptan $892,115grantfromWashington-butonlyafter chidingthefederalgovernmentfor“degradingthe statesandreducingthemto serviledependence.”The moneywillbedivviedup amongthetowns.

Dec.16,1979:Rachel Adams,wifeofformergovernorShermanAdams,dies atherhomeinLincoln.She wasfirstladyfrom1949to 1953andjoinedherhusbandinWashingtonwhen hewasassistanttoPresidentDwightEisenhower from1953through1958. Anartistandauthor,she publishedanautobiography, “OntheOtherHand,”in 1963.

Dec.16,2001:Spouses andchildren,parentsand siblingsgatherattheformer

PeaseAirForcebasetosay goodbyeto36membersof theAirNationalGuard’s 157thAirRefuelingWing. Thegroupshipsoutinthe earlyevening,boundfora locationsomewhereinEurope.

Dec.16,1976:Gov.Mel Thomsonannounceshewill havestatetroopersstationedatborderliquor storestoharassout-of-state taxagentswhosometimes trytocatchconsumersfrom theirstatesbuyingNew Hampshire’scheapbooze. Theagents,hesays,willbe questioned,photographed andaskedtoproduceidentification.

Dec.16,1773:Ontheday oftheBostonTeaParty, Portsmouthholdsatown meetingandpassesaresolvedesignedtoprevent thelandingofanytea.

Dec.16,1965:Anew statereportshowspubliclibrariesinNewHampshire spendanaverageof$2.32 perresident.Concordtops thelistat$4.06perresident.Bookreadershipis alsoupstatewide,to6.71 booksperresidentper year.

Dec.17,1979:New Hampshire’smulti-million dollarskiindustry,already plaguedbyhighfuelprices, isgettingnervousaboutthe winter.Withjustfivedays untilthestartofChristmas vacation,onlysixofthe

state’s35skiareasareopen. Notonlyhastherebeena shortageofnaturalsnow, butwarmweatherhashinderedartificialsnowmaking operations.Skiareaoperatorsareprayingforaheavy snowfallbeforeChristmas tobailthemoutofapotentialfinancialdisaster,the AssociatedPressreports.

Dec.17,2000:A7-weekoldgirldiesinanearly morningfireataPittsfield apartmentbuilding.Though seriouslyinjured,thegirl’s motherand23-month-old brotherwillsurvive.

Dec.17,1951:ThetemperatureinConcordfallsto 22belowzero,makingthis thecoldestDecemberday ofthe20thcentury.

Dec.17,1828:Ralph WaldoEmerson,whois underseriousconsideration forthejobofassistant pastortotheSecondChurch inBoston(theMathers’ church),visitsConcord.He andEllenTucker,whomhe metthepreviousChristmas, becomeengagedtomarry. Heis25,she17.

Dec.17,1997:TheNew HampshireSupremeCourt rulesthatthestate’smethod

ofpayingforpublicschools withlocalpropertytaxesis unconstitutional.

Dec.17,1808:Three yearsafterastateprisonis proposedinConcord,the Legislatureauthorizesa committeeofthreetoacceptbidsforbuildingone.It willbenearlyfouryearsbeforetheprisonopenson NorthStatesStreetat TremontStreet.Itwillbea three-story,36-cellstructuresurroundedbygranite wallsthreefeetthickand14 feethigh.Thecost: $37,000.

Dec.17,1992:Gov.Judd Greggordersapagan symbolremovedfromthe StateHouselawn.The youngmanwhoerectedit goestocourt,whereSteven McAuliffe,inhisfirstmajor decisionasafederaljudge, overrulesGregg’sorder.

Dec.18,1999:Bradford residentscelebratetherenovationofthetownlibrary, a$295,000projectthatdoubledthebuilding’ssize withoutanytaxpayercontributions.Thefund-raising efforthadbegunin1970, whenabakesalebroughtin $198.

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Help Wanted EMPLOYMENT

Deerfield Fair in Deerfield, NH is seeking an Office Assistant. Candidate must be highly organized w/attention to detail possessing exc. communication skills. This is a PT position is 20 hrs per wk during the Fair's off season from Nov. thru June & 40 hrs per wk for the months of July thru Oct. as we prepare for & complete work following the annual Fair. The candidate will provide clerical support & outstanding Customer Service while assisting vendors, customers, Department Superintendents & Deerfield Fair's Board of Officers and Directors. This is a dynamic position w/varied work duties throughout the year. Hourly wage is w/experience.commensurate Interested parties may apply by sending a cover letter & resume to secretary@deerfieldfair.com.

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