Portsmouth, NH December 2024 by City Lifestyle

These Are A Few of My Favorite Things

In this holiday issue, we share stories of people doing good work, spreading good news and beautiful music, and keeping cherished traditions alive. As the season approaches, it can feel overwhelming with all the preparations. I can relate—I’m not much of a shopper. But embracing our family traditions and listening to my favorite holiday tunes keeps me grounded, reminding me of what truly matters.

In the spirit of sharing, here are a few of my favorite traditions, starting with pine. My mom’s simple, elegant pine and white carnation centerpieces were a holiday staple. Every year, my sisters and I would gather fresh pine for her arrangements. Now, I continue this tradition, wandering through the woods each season to collect greens for my home decor. The scent fills our home, and the quiet walk is a beautiful way to honor and connect with my mom.

Baking is a holiday staple for many, but it is always an adventure for me. Precision isn’t my strength—I’m more of a “dash of this, dash of that” kind of person. Still, I don an apron each year and tackle our favorite holiday treats. At the top of the list is crème brûlée, a childhood favorite that conjures up vivid images of my mom carefully stirring the custard mixture like liquid gold. While mine turns out different each year, the memories it stirs are always sweet.

Then there’s the annual sugar cookie-baking disaster with my daughters. Despite my lack of baking talents, frozen dough is not an option, so we labor over Aunt Nita’s recipe while blasting Mahalia Jackson or Elvis from our holiday playlists. Something always goes wrong—sticky dough leads to a one-legged Santa or broken tree—but it’s messy and fun, and we wouldn’t change a thing.

Another holiday must for our family is oysters, thanks to my dad. Growing up, he gifted cases of PEI oysters to friends and colleagues during the holidays. My husband and I continue this tradition, shucking a case of Malpeques, pouring some bubbly, and toasting with friends on a low-key Sunday afternoon. It’s a delicious way to honor my dad’s legacy and spend time with friends amidst the season’s frenzy.

These are just a few of my favorite things—pine and white carnations, Mahalia holiday hits, the chaos of sugar cookies, a perfectly torched créme brûlée, succulent oysters with mignonette sauce, and I almost forgot cozy matching PJ sets to wear all day long—reminding me that the best part of the season is spending time with the people I love…and eating.

Cheers to a merry and bright holiday season.

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Anne Moodey | anne.moodey@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Tara Phillips | tara.phillips@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kim Piela | kim.piela@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rebecca Ingalls, Ann Kathryn Kelly, Susan Lemmo, Tara Phillips

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David J. Murray ClearEyePhoto.com, Allie Burke Photography, Andrea Schwanbeck

Brass Tacks Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling Learn

TARA PHILLIPS, MANAGING EDITOR

inside the issue

Summerwind

Developing

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city scene

@PORTSMOUTHCITYLIFESTYLE

1: Joanne Wolfe, Barb Sadick and Sandra Chororos from Alliance for Greater Good 2: FFI honoree Jen Chinburg with friends Jess Hulseman McKeon and Vicki O’Dowd 3: Dr. Anthony Wilson and Melanie Merz, Great Northern Builders @ AW Plastic Surgery Party for Pink 4: 17th Annual Friends Forever International Dinner & Roast with honoree Eric Chinburg and Heidi Bellamente and Tom Hudson 5: Ron and two of his favorite fans, Finnegan and Beatrix 6: Snazzy Pants contenders Stanton Baker, Dan Hale, Stanford Cross, and Sandi Grace at the 41st Annual Chamber Classic Golf event. 7: The Colwen Hotels team plays to win at the Portsmouth Chamber's Ceres Street Open Mini Golf Tournament.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Murray Design, Kitchen, Bath & Tile Showroom Now Open on Islington Street

Portsmouth has a new bath, kitchen, and tile shop. Murray Design, a family-owned business serving homeowners in MA and NH, stands out with its extensive selection of plumbing, cabinetry, and tile—all available under one roof. Wendy Freedman and her team create a welcoming atmosphere where you’ll feel inspired and at ease while making decisions about your home’s essential spaces. No appointment necessary! Look for the eye-catching orange wallpaper in the window display at 459 Islington Street or call 603) 436-0027

SCORE Seacoast Helps Businesses Grow and Thrive

SCORE Seacoast has been guiding businesses across New Hampshire, southern Maine, and northern Massachusetts for over 60 years. As a nonprofit, we offer free, confidential mentoring, expert guidance, and over 75 virtual workshops. Our experienced mentors specialize in growth strategies, marketing, and financial management. Whether launching a startup, expanding your business, or volunteering to support our small business community, SCORE Seacoast is your trusted partner for success. Learn more at score.org/seacoast or call us at (603) 433-0575

Roxa Offering Stylish and Unique Western Wear in Downtown Portsmouth

Looking for leather apparel, hats, and western wear? Attending a Country Western event and need something to wear? ROXA in downtown Portsmouth offers affordable hats & leatherwear with a focus on high quality, showcasing products not easily found in New England. They also carry local brands The Restless Breed clothing and one-of-a-kind Frog Hollow Denim jackets. Visit us on the 2nd floor at 72A Congress St in Portsmouth. Follow us on IG: @RoxaPortsmouth

Personalized Wellness and Acupuncture Care for Your Whole-Body Health

Discover whole-person health at Upright Acupuncture & Wellness. Offering acupuncture, massage, cupping, herbal medicine, and more. We treat a wide range of conditions including pain, stress, women’s health, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular and neurological issues. Our personalized care focuses on restoring balance and well-being using a powerful time-tested medicine. Let us help you feel your best. Located at 14 Chestnut St in Dover. Call (603) 6868069. Email uprightacupuncturenh @gmail.com or explore more at uprightacupuncture.com.

Managing Urgent Objectives

Heartwarming Holiday Traditions Shared

Celebrating the Joy, Love, and Happy Memories That Make the Season

Merry and Bright

Holiday traditions are what make this time of year so special. They’re the fun little moments and big celebrations that bring families and friends together. Whether baking cookies, exchanging quirky gifts, competing in silly family games, or sharing a favorite meal, these festive rituals create the magic. But they also serve a deeper purpose—giving us a reason to slow down, relax, and enjoy the season with the people we care about most. So, amid the hustle and bustle, take a moment, breathe, and appreciate the joy of the holidays.

In the spirit of this giving season, we asked some of our partners to share their favorite family traditions with us. These holiday vignettes offer up snapshots of the heartwarming moments that bring families closer. Each reflects the simple pleasure of being together, from lively family games to a tree adorned with meaningful travel ornaments. Whether it’s the joy of decorating an old New England home with kids visiting from afar or the cherished memory of homemade Swedish Cardamom Coffee Cake, these traditions remind us of the love, laughter, and memories that make the holidays unforgettable. They also remind us that we’re all part of a larger community, sharing in the warmth and love of the holiday season.

ARTICLE BY TARA PHILLIPS

“They also serve a deeper purpose—giving us a reason to slow down, relax, and enjoy the season with the people we care about most. So, amid the hustle and bustle, take a moment, breathe, and appreciate the joy of the holidays.”

Edziu & Stormy Sentkowski

My mother-in-law, Suzi, is the queen of holiday games! When my wife Stormy’s family moved here from Chicago, the holidays felt too quiet. So, Suzi started a holiday game tradition, playing everything from bingo and trivia to scavenger hunts—all with prizes. But the highlight is our holiday bell music—Suzi color-codes the notes to match the bells, and we all play along. It’s funny and chaotic, but we’ve gotten pretty good. The games grow with our family every year, making the holidays unforgettable!

Northeast Walls and Patios

Our family collects ornaments from the places we visit throughout the year, and decorating the tree with them is a highlight of our holiday season. Each ornament represents a unique memory; we love hanging new ones from our latest adventures. A favorite is the year we attended the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, so we have ornaments depicting parade scenes and a snow globe from that year. It’s a beautiful way to keep those memories alive.

Financial Management & Advisory

I love decorating for the holidays, and our 1796 home on the Oyster River is the perfect New England setting. I put up the trees with just their lights to set the mood, and the day after Thanksgiving, when the kids are in town, we all decorate together. It’s rumored that decorator Mom might tweak things a bit after, but I won’t admit to that! With Christmas music playing and warm cider or hot chocolate brewing, these rare moments together are more cherished than ever.

& Co Design

Yummy Swedish Cardamom Coffee Cake has been a holiday favorite since I was a little girl. But when I was eight, disaster struck when our bakery closed early. Not being Swedish, there were no weathered family recipes to follow or Internet to rely on. But my incredible mom, through trial and error, perfected my favorite treat. Every holiday since, at home or across the country, my mornings have begun with a simple braided ring of flour, sugar, cardamom, and love.

Jenn and Art Meconi

Sheri & Bob Gibson

Patricia Bennett

Meconi

Rein

Longevity Planning

Sharing the Wealth This Holiday Season

SMART YEAR-END GIVING STRATEGIES FOR DOING GOOD AND CUTTING YOUR TAX BILL

Sometimes, life delivers a sweet deal where everyone wins. Monica McCarthy of Seascape Capital Management, LLC shares a few ways to do some good and shrink the IRS check you’ll write next year.

DONOR ADVISED FUND (DAF)

With a DAF, donate now for immediate tax benefits but decide later which charities to support. Sweeten this deal by funding with appreciated stocks to avoid paying capital gains taxes. In a high-income earning year, consider contributing a bigger chunk to reduce taxable income and possibly drop into a lower tax bracket. Pair this larger donation with "bunched" itemized deductions one year, then take the standard deduction in the off years.

QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION (QCD)

Ideal for those at the golden age requiring IRA withdrawals, i.e., pesky Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), a QCD offers a savvy way to help your favorite charities and yourself. Send up to $105,000 directly to the causes you care about instead of taking the RMD to keep your taxable income lower while preventing potential hikes in your Medicare premiums and sidestepping any limits tied to your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). It's a heartfelt way to give back while keeping more money in your pocket.

CHARITABLE REMAINDER OR LEAD TRUSTS (CRTS/CLTS)

With these trusts, gift assets like stocks or property into the trust, and both parties receive payouts over time. How much, who, and when depends upon the type of trust and how it is designed. The cool part is you can take the deduction now— though it’s not dollar-for-dollar—and avoid capital gains taxes on highly appreciated assets. Setting up a trust involves some costs, but it can help turn high-value assets into more accessible funds with a smaller tax hit.

*Seascape Capital Management, LLC does not offer estate planning, tax, or legal services. Please consult your tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.

ARTICLE BY TARA PHILLIPS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLIE BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY

LEGACY OF LOVE AND JEWELS

SUMMERWIND JEWELERS’ SARA REISZ SARGENT CARRIES ON HER FATHER’S LIFEWORK

ARTICLE BY SUSAN GALLAGHER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA SCHWANBECK, BRASS TACKS PHOTOGRAPHY

Deep inside young Melvin Reisz lived a hidden talent. The gift lay dormant until 1972, when, at age 26, his longtime desire to work with his mind and hands led him to Ogunquit, Maine. There, a Perkin’s Cove jeweler trained him to create silver jewelry, an endeavor that revealed his exceptional flair for the craft.

Reisz’s love for his newfound calling set him on a path to entrepreneurial triumph. Along the way, he continued teaching himself through books and ultimately mastered the intricate art of gem setting. The ambitious young man forged ahead, buying his first business from his mentor for the improbable sum of $750.00, and in 1972, in Ogunquit, Summerwind Jewelers was born.

Lady Luck stayed on his side, and in 1978, an overheard conversation at the former Teddy’s Lunch in Market Square spawned a serendipitous meeting with Portsmouth developer, Joseph Sawtelle. With Sawtelle’s help, Reisz bought the first of four buildings on Commercial Alley, where he opened Summerwind’s original Portsmouth location and rented out the other buildings. In 1995, Summerwind Jewelers & Goldsmiths finally found its forever home at 49 Market Street.

For Reisz’s daughter, Sara Reisz Sargent, Summerwind’s managing owner since 2015, becoming a jeweler was just as unexpected. “I sort of fell into it, like my dad,” she says. In 2007, while studying art history in her final college semester, a sudden realization struck her. As an only child, she fervently wished to carry on the business that was her beloved father’s legacy.

Her father encouraged her to attend the Gemological Institute of America, something he was never able to do, and Sargent completed GIA’s one-year program to become a graduate gemologist. Working full-time at Summerwind since December of 2008, she stresses that her dad, who is still involved in the business, never pressured her into this career choice. “I choose to be here,” she says, “and it’s been a good decision.”

Entering Summerwind summons a rich essence of the past mingled with a sleek touch of the present. The atmosphere is at once elegant and welcoming. Defying the traditional formal jewelry store model, Summerwind offers a more relaxed, personal experience. “Because I started on the bench,” Reisz explains, “I’ve always had a different perspective on operating a jewelry store. We explain things to customers and listen to what they want.” Sargent agrees, adding, “We are more down to earth here. We treat our staff and customers like an extension of our family.”

Sargent’s background in art history gives her unique insights into jewelry’s impact on civilization. “Humans have been adorning their bodies with it since ancient times,” she says. “Jewelry is intertwined with history. It has become significant in our culture, especially when given as a symbolic gift.”

To celebrate this, Summerwind remakes old family heirlooms, most of them well-worn and loved. On site, their expert goldsmith and custom designer of 29 years, Irene Sirois, artfully creates a replica of the piece or something entirely new.

Both father and daughter value their relationship with the community. A big part of Sargent’s vision for the business is becoming more involved. She and her staff are chamber members, support the arts, and donate to local charities. The store’s monthly Ladies’ Night brings women-owned businesses together to share camaraderie and customers. “The focus is not on selling for us,” says Sargent. “We want to collaborate with other businesses and grow our community.”

Portsmouth’s stately, antique-inspired Market Street clock, a gift from Summerwind to the city they love, stands as a testament to their passion for the community they serve. Thanks to their loyal customers, Summerwind Jewelers has stood the test of time – much like the historic city of Portsmouth itself.

“Because I started on the bench, I’ve always had a different perspective on how to operate a jewelry store. We explain things to customers and listen to what they want.”

ARTICLE BY ANN KATHRYN KELLY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRIENDS FOREVER INTERNATIONAL

DEVELOPING SOCIAL CHANGEMAKERS THROUGH LESSONS IN RESILIENCE, INCLUSIVITY, EMPATHY, AND ACTION

PRAGMATIC POSITIVITY

Stephen Martineau

World Peace, Grown Locally: It’s at the center of everything Friends Forever International (FFI) does. The organization—a-political and non-denominational—is a not-for-profit 501(3)(c) with roots in Portsmouth and now headquartered in Durham. FFI started nearly

communities wanted and needed all along. We’d heard from local school administrators that there were incorrect and hurtful perceptions among students in their own halls.” He paused, adding: “So, we began to imagine how we can translate the work we’ve done

“WE WANT TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF THEMSELVES.”

40 years ago with a focus on Northern Ireland, rocked by sectarian violence.

“Our founder and Portsmouth Rotarian Bob Raiche brought the first group of Northern Irish teenage boys— five Catholic and five Protestant—to the Seacoast in 1986,” FFI Executive Director Stephen Martineau says. That first cohort discovered a life-changing truth when they arrived. They saw they were more alike than different and could change long-held beliefs by working with, not against, each other.

It’s a foundational value FFI continues to emphasize decades later.

Sitting down with Martineau was a welcome reunion. Having served on the FFI board of directors 15 years ago, I was familiar with its international mission of youth-focused conflict resolution, which has graduated more than 2,000 alumni from around the globe. Yet I learned that FFI, four years ago, turned the lens back to where it all started: New Hampshire.

“COVID contributed to this shift when travel stopped, sidelining our cross-cultural immersion programs,” Martineau explains. “But really, the pivot was something our local

internationally to address issues in our own backyard.”

FFI developed programs exclusively for New Hampshire youth to nurture social changemakers with the desire and capability to take on issues affecting them and their peers, right here. Courses instill lifelong lessons in resilience, inclusivity, empathy, and action that youth will carry into their adult lives, jobs, and locales far and wide. Martineau calls it “pragmatic positivity.” He underscores that these programs require focus, teamwork, deep self-reflection, and a willingness to be honest, vulnerable, and fair. FFI expects commitment from applicants to put in the work to better themselves and the world around them.

In addition to a structured curriculum, every program centers around giving back, with participants volunteering hours of time to local nonprofits like Gather and the Pope Humane Society. “We want to help young people become the best version of themselves so they can help their community be the best version of itself,” Martineau continues. “I remind them: This is not just about you. It’s about the impact

“COST MUST NOT BE A BARRIER TO DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS LEADERS HERE ON THE SEACOAST.”

you’ll have on 10, 20, 50 people this year and over the next 40 to 50 years.”

He points to Luna Landers, a high school junior from New London, who completed an empathetic debating program. FFI offers a different take, teaching that it’s not about one team winning and the other losing, but both teams reaching an unbiased middle ground. Conscious listening and respect for all points of view are paramount. Inspired by the FFI course, Luna planned a daylong event where she invited state representatives to workshop with her and classmates until reaching a consensus on differing political views. Enthusiasm for the event was strong, with many students from neighboring schools also in attendance.

More than 150 youth from across the state have graduated from FFI programs to date, earning high school credits that New Hampshire’s Department of Education recognizes. The best part? Programming is 100% funded through scholarships. “Cost must not be a barrier to developing the next generation of community and business leaders here on the Seacoast,” Martineau says.

Bob Raiche passed in 2014, but Martineau is certain he would be thrilled with FFI’s expanded mission that, while still global, is also wholly New Hampshire-focused. Learn more about FFI’s programs, application process, and ways to get involved at ff.international .

BUSINESS INFO

Friends Forever International 1 Morgan Way | Durham ff.international

FFI participants Adelle, May, & Hannah

Luna Landers

FFI Students Summer, Eva and Luna

Meconi Financial Management & Advisory

We are a comprehensive financial planning practice, led by Art Meconi who is registered to service clients in 31 states. We have a team of experienced professionals dedicated to the highest levels of client service. Our hope is to empower our clients to achieve their financial goals through personalized financial planning, tailoring to each client’s unique needs and fostering collaborative relationships built on trust.

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

ARTICLE BY REBECCA INGALLS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID J. MURRAY CLEAREYEPHOTO.COM

The Gift of Music

Portsmouth Pro Musica with Visionary Conductor Priscilla French Celebrate 40 Years of Choral Excellence and Community-Building

On Tuesday evenings in Portsmouth, four dozen people — teachers, financial and healthcare professionals, artists, students — gather to sing. With sheet music in hand, they stand semi-circled around conductor Priscilla French. She motions, their voices lift, and an ethereal sound fills the space. This is the magic French has been creating in Portsmouth for 40 years. French's musical life started very young. She explains, "I discovered I could play the piano by ear as I picked out hymns and carols at family Christmas gatherings." In the 4th grade, she began piano lessons and remembers her sisters' "making

fun of [her] for focusing on the harmonies of 60s folk ballads, rock bands, and Broadway tunes."

Rather than listening for the words, French was imagining how to play those songs on the piano. Later, she would go on to study the organ and take voice lessons, further nurturing her musical gift.

During a year abroad at Manchester College in Oxford, England, French experienced "an epiphany" while performing Mozart's Requiem in a 15th-century chapel. She recalls, "I had never had such an emotional experience as I did when singing this work," which compelled her to pursue choral music more deeply. After graduating, she sang with the New England Conservatory Chorus and Boston Symphony Orchestra, where she had the "thrilling" opportunity to perform Mahler's Resurrection and Berlioz's Romeo and Juliet at Symphony Hall.

But French was not destined to remain on the risers. While rehearsing A Ceremony of Carols with the Back Bay Chorale, she recalls watching "the conductor work with the alto section on how to shape a phrase or use legato or staccato articulation, and thinking, 'I can do that!'" That moment — of seeing herself as a conductor — motivated her to earn a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the New England Conservatory.

As she settled into Portsmouth life in the mid-80s, French became aware that the Seacoast had many mixed choruses but no dedicated women's chorus, which presented a creative opportunity. With 19 members at the start, the Portsmouth Women's Chorus grew to 35 by 1998, when they embarked on a 10-day overseas journey that took French back to Oxford, where she had sung Mozart years before.

CONTINUED >

Alto and board member Diane Day was on that trip and has continued to sing with French ever since, feeling "so blessed to be a part of [it]."

By 2006, French was ready to form a mixed chorus that could sing an expanded repertoire of "masterworks" for voice and orchestra. Folks told her she would never find the men — how wrong they were! Portsmouth Pro Musica was born and has been moving audiences and enriching lives for almost two decades. Bass and board president Fred Calcinari describes it as "a source of beauty, camaraderie, and satisfaction" in his life, and original member John Rice reflects, "It's almost like being with a special family every Tuesday night."

French articulates eloquently the complexity of connection in a singing community: "There is a bond during the rehearsal process," she explains, "unifying

the vowels and the consonants, listening to each other, and singing in tune. It comes from me, yes, but on the other side the singers are trying to sing as one body, 46 disparate voices and personalities. There is something shared in the breathing together." The dedication of these singers is what motivates her to continue. In turn, her dedication is a gift to them and to all who have the privilege of hearing Portsmouth Pro Musica.

To honor the chorus's 40th anniversary, from its beginnings to today, Portsmouth Pro Musica will kick off this season with their winter concert, "A December Day," featuring a commissioned piece, Where the Owl Lives, by Gregory W. Brown, and lyrics by Seacoast poet Mimi White. With the collaboration of the PMAC Sandpipers Youth Chorus, the concert will truly be a community celebration.

“There is a bond during the rehearsal process, unifying the vowels and the consonants, listening to each other, and singing in tune. It comes from me, yes, but on the other side the singers are trying to sing as one body, 46 disparate voices and personalities.”

As the holiday season approaches your heating system becomes especially important. Regular maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable. Plumbing and pipes are also vulnerable to freezing temperatures, so it's crucial to insulate them to prevent bursts, which could cause signiﬁcant water damage. Lastly, with the increased use of holiday lights and heating devices, your electrical system should be inspected to handle the additional load safely, reducing the risk of outages or ﬁres.

Maintaining these systems not only keeps your home safe and cozy but also helps avoid unexpected repair expenses during a busy and festive season. Just Call Heritage.

NOVEMBER 28TH AND DECEMBER 25TH

Holiday Brunch Invitation from the Sheraton Harborside Hotel

Sheraton Harborside Hotel | 250 Market St. | Portsmouth | 11:00 AM

If you are looking for a spectacular setting to have a Thanksgiving Day meal or Christmas Day Brunch, then look no further! The Sheraton Harborside is hosting holiday meals with all the trimmings on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day from 11 am to 5 pm. Reservations required. For information and reservations, call the Sheraton Harborside at 603-559-2626 or make a reservation through OpenTable.

NOVEMBER 28TH

Seacoast Rotary Club Turkey Trot

Strawbery Banke | 66 Marcy Street | Portsmouth | 8:30 AM

This year marks the 16th Annual 5k race on Thanksgiving morning. For 16 years the Rotary Club has been donating to non-profit organizations in the Seacoast area who do amazing work helping those in our community. We thank them, and we thank you for supporting our race! For registration details visit seacoastrotary.org.

DECEMBER 1ST

Orchard Chapel Holiday Concert Events

Orchard Chapel | 143 Exeter Road | Hampton Falls | 7:00 PM

The Orchard Chapel, immediately next to Applecrest Orchards, offers a quintessential New England holiday setting (complete with oil lanterns,

realty report

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candles, and old wooden pews) to enjoy an evening of holiday music that promises to fill you with the festive spirit. From Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker to a Charlie Brown Christmas there is something for everyone throughout the month of December. For more information and tickets, visit thewordbarn.com.

DECEMBER

5TH - 8TH

The Nutcracker at Rochester Opera House

Rochester Opera House | 31 Wakefield Street | 7:00 PM

“The Nutcracker” returns once again to the Rochester Opera House. For the 17th year, Sole City Dance will present its enchanting version of the timeless classic ballet. With its dazzling choreography, intricate costumes, and unforgettable characters, “The Nutcracker” continues to captivate audiences of all ages, spreading holiday joy and wonder year after year. Buy tickets starting at $24 at rochesteroperahouse.com.

DECEMBER

14TH

On Belay’s 16th Annual Gingerbread Build Event

Oyster River High School | 55 Coe Drive | Durham | 9:00 AM

Join over 400 folks from around the Seacoast who come together to build the most amazing creations out of graham crackers and crazy amounts of sugar! Raffle prizes, tasty treats, and winter cheer make this a day a fun for the whole family. 100% of funds raised go to supporting On Belay’s free adventure programs for youth impacted by a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. Learn more at on-belay.org/gingerbread.

DECEMBER 14TH AND 15TH

Portsmouth Pro Musica Performances

Phillips Church, Exeter | South Church, Portsmouth | 7:30 PM

In December, Portsmouth Pro Musica will perform a commissioned work by Greg Brown that celebrates Priscilla French’s 40 years of choral conducting. Based on poetry by Mimi White, it is called “Where the Owl Lives.” Choral concert dates are December 14th at Phillips Church, Exeter, and December 15th at South Church, Portsmouth. To buy tickets visit portsmouthpromusica.org.

DECEMBER 19TH

Local Love Shopping

Downtown Portsmouth | 5:00 PM

Experience the charm of Portsmouth during Local Love evenings, happening every third Thursday of the month from 5:00-8:00 p.m. This exciting new community showcase event invites you to explore a variety of local retailers throughout the city, offering up an evening of shopping opportunities, special promotions, and unique finds. For a list of participating retailers, visit goportsmouthnh.com/locallove.