Summer nights on the Swamscott River, in Exeter, by Jonathan Hornbeck
What’s Inside YOUR
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PRINTED IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
August 2024
603 Navigator
12 Striking Skies
Summer storms light up New Hampshire
Photo by Charles Cormier Photography
14 Lakefront Lure
Meredith’s ‘best small town nod’ reflects allure of Lake Winnipesaukee community By John Koziol
20 Food Truck Frenzy
NH chefs are hitting the road to deliver surprising delights
By Elisa Gonzales Verdi, Photography by Brittany Grimes
603 Informer
26 A Perfect Finish Cummings Printing brings content to life
By Sarah Pearson
32 In Their Own Words
The Joy of Jodi By Elisa Gonzales Verdi
35 Blips
Kelly Clarkson Gets Schooled By Casey McDermott
36 What Do You Know Hay Fever By Marshall Hudson
603 Living
Local
By Emily Reily, Photography by Michael A. Blanchette
48 New Hampshire Magazine
Reader Photo Contest
Our three judges picked standouts in three categories — landscape, wildlife and lifestyle — from a pool of nearly 700 entries.
60 Top Dentists 2024
The annual Top Dentists list showcases excellence in dental care. See which New Hampshire dentists were voted by their peers as the most trustworthy.
92 Are We There Yet? Camping with kids is an option for a close-to-home vacation
By Sarah Pearson
98 Calendar
Summer events around the state are waiting for you Compiled by Elisa Gonzales Verdi
102 Health Fact or Fiction?
By Krysten Godfrey Maddocks
104 Live Free
Manchester’s United Nations of Soccer By Brion O’Connor
Special Advertising Sections
66 Dentist Profiles
My kingdom for a moose
I HAVE A DEEP, DARK SECRET.
I’m a New Hampshire native who has spent more than half his life living in the Granite State and most of the rest in Colorado.
I have climbed mountains, hiked in national parks and driven scenic byways. I’ve ridden my bike along swampy bogs and trekked near quiet spots where forest animals have been known to gather. I have walked off the beaten path and taken the road less traveled.
Never once have I seen a moose.
At least not a live one. While vacationing in the Berkshires years ago, I visited the watery grave of one of these majestic beasts. Word had spread among locals in the Massachusetts town that a moose had drawn its final breath near a small pond not far from the road.
The attraction had become so popular that while we were walking back from our viewing, another party was heading along the path toward us to sneak a peek. All this for a moose cow with no antlers to steal.
We have a live one for you with a handsome pair in this issue.
Photographer Kelly Norcross, the first-place winner of the inaugural New Hampshire Magazine Reader Photo Contest, captured our hearts and eyes with a bull moose dripping with drool in a pristine lake setting in Pittsburg.
See the magical moose, plus our second- and third-place winners and several honorable mentions, beginning on page 48. We’re already contemplating how to make next year’s contest even more dynamic.
NEW HAMPSHIRE MAGAZINE, THE NEXT GENERATION
Welcome to Season 2. This issue marks the beginning of my second year as editor of New Hampshire Magazine, which I took over in June 2023 from long-time editor Rick Broussard. Since then, we have added new members to our team: Assistant Editors Elisa Gonzales Verdi and Emily Reily, and Managing Editor for Custom Publications Sarah Pearson. They join our veterans, Managing Editor Emily Heidt and Art Director John Goodwin.
In this issue, see Elisa’s interview with New Hampshire novelist Jodi Picoult and feature on New Hampshire food trucks (page 20); Emily Reily’s story about summer stargazing (page 38); and Sarah’s double-feature debut for the magazine, a guide to camping with kids in the Granite State, and an inside look at Cummings, the New Hampshire printing company that has long produced New Hampshire Magazine for us (page 26).
On the day our team visited Cummings’ plant in Hooksett, our annual “Best of NH” issue was in production. We were able to watch the printing and assembly process at various stages. Just a few days later, the magazines were ready for attendees at our Best of NH Party at Flag Hill Distillery & Winery in Lee.
The day before the event, Yankee staffers prepped for the party at the event site. We set up tables for our Best of NH winner vendors and filled hundreds of gift bags with magazines, gift cards and other giveaways. While stuffing our July 2024 issue into those canvas totes, I felt a deep connection to every copy I touched.
All the stories, headlines, photos and captions were written, edited, designed and proofed by members of our team and our growing stable of freelance writers and photographers. We’re proud of our best work and even our imperfections. This magazine is generated 100 percent by humans. (OK, with occasional help from the AI plugged into John’s design software.)
Stay tuned, and please let us know what you think. You can reach me at mikecote@yankeepub.com for cheers, jeers and random thoughts about the universe.
Contributors for August 2024
Michael Blanchette is a New Hampshirebased photographer specializing in landscapes. He aims to capture nature at its best, so he prefers to photograph at the edge of day when the light is more dramatic. He is also passionate about night photography, forever in search of bright stars and a colorful Milky Way. He photographed this month’s stargazing feature.
Freelance writer and frequent contributor Krysten Godfrey Maddocks wrote this month’s Health story about six common health myths.
Assistant Editor Emily Reily wrote this month’s feature, “Skywatchers,” about stargazing in New Hampshire and those who make a hobby of it.
Managing Editor of Custom Publications Sarah Pearson wrote this month’s Living story about camping with your family in New Hampshire.
John Koziol has been a journalist for three decades, from CT to NH. He wrote this month’s “Our Town” about Meredith, his residence since 2003.
You will still find our hilltop hideaway at the end of the winding dirt road. Lighten your spirit as you step out of your world and into ours. Welcome to Pickity Place. Call us for dining reservations. Have a Pickity Day!
Assistant Editor Elisa Gonzales Verdi wrote this month’s Food & Drink section about food trucks that are owned and operated by local chefs.
Brittany Grimes currently works as a full-time photographer in southern New Hampshire. She photographed this month’s Food & Drink story.
Spot four newts like the one here hidden on ads in this issue, tell us where you found them and you might win a great gift from a local artisan or company.
To enter our drawing for Spot the Newt, visit spotthenewt.com and fill out the online form. Or, send answers plus your name and mailing address to:
Spot the Newt c/o New Hampshire Magazine 250 Commercial St., Suite 4014 Manchester, NH 03101
You can also email them to newt@nhmagazine.com.
Last month’s “Spot the Newt” winner is Cynthia Simek of Loudon, NH. July issue newts were on pages 8, 10, 23 and 94.
Need a Good Reason for Spotting The Newt?
The prize is a gift certificate for $50 to use at the shop or restaurant of our choosing. Each month’s gift card will be different, which adds to the overall Newt fun. Let the hunt begin!
603 Navigator
Striking Skies
Summer storms light up New Hampshire
Warm New Hampshire summers call for an abundance of thunderstorms to accompany barbecues and beach days. While they may (literally) rain on your parade, the lightning shows they bring, like this one captured across Exeter’s waterfront, give you dinner and a show.
PHOTO BY CHARLES CORMIER PHOTOGRAPHY, @C_CORMIER_PHOTOGRAPHY
Lakefront Lure
Meredith’s ‘best small town’ nod reflects allure of Lake Winnipesaukee community
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY JOHN KOZIOL / ILLUSTRATION BY PETER NOONAN
Two years ago, Travel + Leisure magazine confirmed what a lot of people here already knew: Meredith is one of the “best small towns on the East Coast.”
While that acclaim resulted in a surge of visitors, longtime residents say it also fanned a hot real estate market that is centered on Lake Winnipesaukee and is based on the town’s current major industry: retirement.
“Travelers are looking beyond the bright lights of cities like Boston and New York and seeking out places with a lower concentration of visitors and easier access to the outdoors,” Evie Carrick wrote in the April 7, 2022, issue of Travel + Leisure.
Carrick described Meredith as “one of those almost unbearably cute East Coast towns — especially in the fall, when the colors pop.”
But before that happens, Meredith owns the summer.
“The town is right on Lake Winnipesaukee in the foothills of the White Mountains and home to one of five ports, from which that the historic M/S Mount Washington sails,” Carrick wrote. “For a perfect Mer-
edith day, kayak to the nearby Stonedam Island and back, then go for a sunset dinner cruise on the ship.”
Like so many towns in New Hampshire, Meredith’s rise to retirement haven and resort community is rooted in the state’s industrial past.
Beginning in the early 18th century, Meredith Village — the area between lakes Waukewan and Winnipesaukee — was the site of several mills. When that era passed, it was superseded by the current hospitality industry, said John Hopper, president of the Meredith Historical Society.
With hotels and restaurants on and near Meredith Bay, Meredith — thanks to its location on Lake Winnipesaukee, and blessed with several other water bodies — has become a year-round destination.
Meredith has grown, as people who first came as visitors have bought second homes or moved here permanently. The folks in the latter group, said Hopper, are generally older and wealthier than many members of the community they are joining.
In 2022, the town had a year-round population of about 6,600. Nearly half of its
residents were 55 or older, according to state figures. Meredith has a per-capita income of $43,176 and a median household income of $61,359.
Most of the town’s 5,200 housing units are single-family properties, according to the state. In May, the median-sale price of those properties was $725,000, according to New Hampshire Realtors.
“I think affordable housing is the biggest problem in Meredith that has to be faced in the next 10 to 20 years,” said Bev Lapham, who settled in Meredith 35 years ago with his wife, Liz, after a career in banking in New York and Connecticut.
Housing costs are soaring across the board, he said, while the prices of “lake properties are just astronomical.”
A village beckons
Meredith is a great place to be, said Lapham, who added he has been impressed and appreciative of the spirit and breadth of voluntarism in the community, including for the Meredith Sculpture Walk,
a rotating series of 32 art installations in Meredith Village and in Hesky and Scenic parks, that is a year-round attraction.
“My wife and I visited our son, who was working here, a bunch of times and we fell in love with the village, and when I made a career move and bought a business (Village Canvas) here, that sort of sealed the deal,” Lapham said.
He conceded, however, that the “deal” was sealed before then by his wife.
“We decided that New England is where we wanted to be, and we stayed in Meredith while I was looking around for a business,” he said. “And the longer I stayed here, the more my wife said, ‘You can find a business anywhere you want, but I’m staying in Meredith.’”
The couple’s decision, he added, was made simpler because they are both avid boaters. And there are plenty of spots for that in Meredith.
The 40-square-mile town includes more than 14 miles of inland water area, with Lake Winnipesaukee comprising the largest share of waterfront. It also includes Lake Waukewan and Lake Wicwas, as well as parts of Lake Winnisquam and Pemigewasset Lake.
Mountain’s midway
Because it’s between Laconia, the seat of Belknap County, and Plymouth, home to Plymouth State University, Meredith has long been a bedroom community for those two municipalities.
Since the early 20th century, Meredith has billed itself as the “Latchkey to the White Mountains” because it was in the middle of the roads to get to and back from the mountains, Hopper said.
Meredith was also aware that it was increasingly a destination in itself, he said. In 1982, the town did a study and embraced that its future lay in hospitality. Two years later, that future took form when Rusty McLear opened the Mill Falls Market Place and, later, other lodging establishments on Meredith Bay, all of which he has since sold.
“That was a massive change for the town,” said Hopper, noting that it followed a demographic change in the 1970s when Meredith saw both year-round and seasonal populations increase by 30 percent.
The town has seen “crazy” development since 2000, said Hopper, with the COVID-19 pandemic bringing many new residents and businesses.
Serving the influx of retirees among the arrivals has been described as the town’s biggest industry, joked Hopper and Rudy VanVeghten, a board member of the historical society. While that is wonderful from many standpoints, they said, it also puts pressure on locals to be able to afford to live where they grew up.
At its settling in 1768, Meredith was based on an agrarian economy, but since the 1800s, its core, Meredith Village, was dominated by mills — lumber, grist, textile and then stocking/hosiery — all of which were powered by water flowing east, down from what is now known as Lake Waukewan, via the now mostly-built-over Measly Stream that enters Lake Winnipesaukee at Meredith Bay.
Despite each mill employing an average of 150 people in succession, Meredith, to use a baseball metaphor, was always “a single-A team,” said Hopper. He compared it to the “big leagues” of river-fed mills in Laconia, Franklin, Manchester and Nashua and the Massachusetts communities of Haverhill and Lowell.
Regardless of how small they were, the mills were “always the largest employer in town,” said Hopper, “and as the mills went, the town went.”
When the last mill closed, sending Meredith into an economic tailspin, a Pennsylvania-based company decided that the heart of Meredith Village was the ideal place to process asbestos. The March 1, 1951, edition of the “Meredith News”
Bev Lapham, of the Meredith Sculpture Walk, poses with one of the three art installations being considered for the cover of Sculpture Walk’s 2024 brochure.
trumpeted in a headline that “Meredith can breathe again.”
“We were all ignorant in those days” about the danger of asbestos, said Van Veghten, who worked at the Meredith News from 1973 until 2000, spending all but four years there as editor. Gradually, awareness of the problems created by asbestos grew, and Meredith’s asbestos plant closed in 1979, he said.
That time, coincidentally, was when town leaders, with McLear’s help, firmly put Meredith on the travel-and-tourism map.
John Moulton, owner of Moulton Farm, which has been in operation since the 1890s, quipped that at age 8 or 9, his father consigned him to selling pumpkins from the bed of a pickup parked on NH Route 25, an action that today could be considered “child abandonment.”
The Moulton Farm began as a dairy, he said, but it and other small-scale dairies eventually consolidated or closed, unable to keep up with the bigger players in the industry.
Moulton said his late father, seeing how things were trending, made sure he and his
Top: John Moulton stands in front of the sign for Moulton Farm, which began operating in the 1890s and which has remained popular well into the 21st century.
Bottom: A visit or stay at the Mill Falls property offers the opportunity to stroll, shop and dine at The Marketplace. The bridge is a favorite spot to pose for a picture in front of the cascading waterfall.
FINE CRAFT GALLERIES
brother were educated well. He added that after he graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in education, he went to teach at Pinkerton Academy for 17 years.
While he loved teaching, Moulton said he wasn’t happy about the long commute to and from Meredith, so he continued farming during the summers, returning full-time to his fields in the mid-1990s and eventually adopting a direct-to-consumer model that remains to this day.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought a lot of new customers to Moulton Farm, he said, and they keep coming.
Among his many concerns, said Moulton, is the quality of water in Lake Winnipesaukee, finding enough employees, and finding them places to live.
“We’re always running about 15 percent short on good, skilled help, and the labor thing could be and probably is restrictive
to the economic growth of the entire area,” he said.
That said, Meredith has some very strong roots thanks to McLear and others, Moulton summed up with Hopper and Van Veghten, pointing out several of the town’s other attributes: hosting the annual Pond Hockey Classic and the Great Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby, and being home to the delightfully eclectic Innisfree Bookshop.
Annalee and Archie
Since 1934, the town has been home to Annalee Mobilitee Dolls; and it is where the late Bob Montana created characters for Archie Comics. A sculpture of the freckled Archie Andrews was recently placed on a bench in a pocket park downtown.
Meredith was featured in the “Betrayal” episode, aired March 5, 2008, of the popular TV show “Law & Order,” and it boasts,
among many eateries, Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant and George’s Diner.
Meredith has a roundabout at the intersection of routes 106 and 3 that actually works quite well, but it also has frequent and long traffic delays at the intersection of routes 3 and 25. There’s lots of parking, though, in Meredith Village, including at the aptly named and municipal Town Docks.
Despite the occasional challenges of getting into and out of Meredith, visitors are not deterred. When asked about what they see as the future of Meredith in 15 to 25 years, Hopper said he and Van Veghten don’t foresee many changes, adding that they “won’t be worrying about it” because they’ll probably be dead by then.
Meredith “will always be a draw because of the lake,” Hopper said. “It’s hard to imagine what else we could be,” he said, other than a residential resort community on the biggest lake in the Granite State. NH
The late Bob Montana, who created characters for Archie Comics, spent his childhood summers in Meredith and later lived with his wife and children there. A sculpture of the freckled Archie Andrews was recently placed on a bench in a pocket park downtown.
Katheryn Rolfe
Katheryn has been designing spaces for over three decades. Her unique take on both color and shape can transform your interior from mundane to spectacular.
Dee Cahill
Dee’s
Food Truck Frenzy
NH chefs are hitting the road to deliver surprising delights
BY ELISA GONZALES VERDI PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTANY GRIMES
Nothing says “you’re in for a good time” quite like a food truck. The mobile kitchens are staples at every carnival, fair and festival, and are guaranteed to dish up variety anywhere they park.
Unbound by the confines of a brick-andmortar location, these kings of the road can serve up what they want, when they want, where they want.
While the food truck scene in bigger cities like Boston and Burlington may be a little more established, the New Hampshire food truck craze is just beginning. This summer, the Granite State’s highways and byways have been bustling with food trucks going from one festival to the next, bringing their inspired creations along with them.
We’re not talking about trucks filled to the brim with fried dough and corn dogs (although those do hit the spot). We’re talking about food trucks that are owned and operated by chefs who craved their own venture but didn’t want to be held back by having a physical location. So rather than have you stop by their location, they decided to meet you at yours.
DeadProof Pizza
You’ll probably hear the DeadProof Pizza truck before you see it. With their music at top volume, DeadProof’s owners, Dante and Vinny Marino and Matt Berry, are serving up “good vibes and dope pies.”
It all started in Milford, where Dante was working as a graphic designer and had a client who wanted to make pizza. Dante cooked up the designs that would one day define DeadProof — they were punk, loud and vibrant.
“He (the client) didn’t love it at all,” Dante said. “But I fell in love with the concept.”
Matt Berry, who was a chef at Culture
“You would not believe the number of people who say you can’t put ramen on pizza, and then say it’s the best pizza they’ve ever had.”
— Dante Marino
in Milford at the time, would sometimes make pizza crust out of the “dead” — overproofed bread dough that couldn’t be baked for bread.
“I pocketed ‘DeadProof’ as a name for something,” Berry said.
“Matt and I brainstormed, and the idea came more to life when we were talking about what we wanted the vibe to be. We wanted it to be like, ‘Hey, we’re DeadProof and we’re here in this parking lot!’ ” Dante put his skills as a graphic designer to work, so that DeadProof’s vibe and branding was established before their
first pop-up. With T-shirts, stickers, a cohesive menu and matching truck, patrons at DeadProof’s first pop-up thought they had been around for years.
“I’ve never had so many people compliment the vibe and branding,” Dante said. “We made waves in the first year alone.”
DeadProof’s success lies within their boundary-breaking pizzas and their effort to collaborate with other restaurants right out of the gate.
“We got our hands dirty doing pop-ups,” Berry said. “I’ve been cooking in southern New Hampshire for 15 years, so I used my
contacts to collab and spread out.”
“We went from low-key to super popular out of the gate,” Dante added. “We’re loud, obnoxious and listen to loud music. We created a space that we would want to be in and eat at.”
In an effort to keep people excited, DeadProof’s menu is as everchanging as their location. They always offer a vegan pizza, but otherwise they’re marching to the beat of their pizza drum and letting their creativity shine on pie.
Most Popular Menu Item: Send Noods Find them at deadproofpizza.com
Clyde’s Cupcakes
Most food trucks act as a way for chefs and aspiring restaurateurs to start their business and generate interest before opening a brickand-mortar location. For Clyde Bullen, owner of Clyde’s Cupcakes, the path to food-truck success hasn’t been as linear.
“Fifteen years ago, I had a bakery in Exeter,” Bullen said. “People loved my products and would ask if I could cater for events in the park and in Portsmouth. I opted to start the food truck to be a mobile billboard to drive business to the store.”
Business for Clyde’s soared after launching the iconic hot-pink pastry truck. As they went to more events, Clyde’s Cupcakes’ fan base (and demand) grew, and Bullen decided to add another food truck. During COVID-19, he opened his food truck by the Exeter bandstand, since he already had that license. Bullen made the decision to close his original Exeter storefront and go fully mobile.
“Last year alone, we went to over 300 festivals all over New England,” Bullen said. “We go to every festival and concert that we possibly can.”
A trained pastry chef, Bullen prides himself in the quality of his pastries.
“You’re not getting crap from us,” he said. “Everything is high-end. We’re loved, and people love our sweets.”
Clyde’s Cupcakes isn’t just a cupcake truck — they do just about everything. They make cheesecakes, cupcakes, cake pops, ice cream and 20 styles of brownies (with a build-your-own-sundae option).
Between having a physical location or the trucks, Bullen prefers being mobile because you meet so many different people, and have customers from all over, he says. Plus, you get to see how tastes vary from town to town.
“You go to one town, and everyone
wants unique flavors like a bacon cupcake. You go to another town and that just won’t fly. It’s amazing to see,” Bullen said.
Next January, Clyde’s Cupcakes will have a full-circle moment with the opening of a brick-and-mortar dessert and wine bar in Manchester. There, Bullen plans to pair regular wines with his dessert menu, and give patrons a place to sit down and unwind.
“It’s another avenue to chill out and enjoy some time, instead of just eating and running,” Bullen said. “We’re always trying to do something different. My son went to Italy for two weeks to learn about wine, and we’re going to have a lot of exclusive wines. We’re really hoping people will like the pairings.”
Teenie Wienies
During the pandemic, everyone developed a hobby. Most people started DIY projects around the house or started gardening, but experienced butcher and co-owner of Teenie Wienies, Riley O’Loughlin, did something a little different.
“I’ve been butchering since I was 18, so I’ve been doing it for 14 years now,” O’Loughlin said. “I’d always noticed that no one really makes their own sausage from scratch, so I started making sausage as a pandemic hobby.” After buying a meat grinder, O’Loughlin started experimenting with sausage-making and quickly realized that handmade sausage was “the best thing ever.”
O’Loughlin only uses pork shoulder in his sausages, and he makes the spice blends for the sausages from scratch.
It wasn’t long after that O’Loughlin set up shop at the 3-foot butcher’s counter inside Georgia’s Northside in Concord. The barbecue joint’s owner, Chef Alan Natkiel, was looking for different foods and wanted
to build up the food community in Concord. O’Loughlin was looking for a place to make and sell his homemade sausages. So in the summer of 2022, they linked up (pun intended).
“We — my girlfriend, Molly, and I — had different sausages weekly and had a good little following there,” O’Loughlin said. “We unintentionally fell into catering. The local skatepark was hosting an event, and they were looking for food vendors. We were able to grill sausages and make them into sandwiches, and everyone was super receptive! That’s when we thought, ‘Why don’t we start a food truck?’ ”
After four months of repairing a food truck and dozens of phone calls to friends who know how to build, Teenie Wienies was ready to hit the road in October 2023.
In the 10 months since opening, O’Loughlin said, “It’s been terrific. Back in February, we were named one of the Hippo’s Top Five Food Trucks, after only
four months of service. We must be doing something right!”
“I’ve always been very passionate about butchery,” O’Loughlin said. “I’ve always tried to learn how to do new things and be the best butcher I could be. I didn’t expect a food truck, but you’ve got to pivot. The goal is to turn Teenie Wienies into a brick-andmortar hybrid butcher shop where you can sit down and grab a bite to eat.”
O’Loughlin doesn’t take himself or his business too seriously. Apart from hearing customers chuckle under their breath at the truck’s name, his favorite thing, so far, has been the feedback.
“There’s nothing better than being told what you’re doing is awesome,” O’Loughlin said. “The actual process of sausage-making is also a favorite. It’s my moment to be alone, and it’s a very calming and creative outlet. The sausage is my canvas, and the spices are my paint. The possibilities are endless.” Most Popular Menu Item: The Chinese Dumpling Find them at facebook.com/TeenieWienies
Kimberly’s Gluten Free Kitchen
Tired of the “career thing,” Kimberly Harvey was looking for a change of pace and ready to be her own boss. With 20 years of experience cooking gluten-free foods at home for her gluten-intolerant husband, she toyed with the idea of opening a gluten-free prepared and frozen foods market in her hometown of North Conway.
“I wanted to work less, not more,” Harvey said. “Having a brick-and-mortar location kind of owns you, and it wasn’t the lifestyle I wanted. I went to a music festival and
saw the food trucks and thought that would be perfect.”
Kimberly’s Gluten Free Kitchen was born in 2018, and business has been booming ever since. The Gluten Free Kitchen dishes up tater tots and tacos, all made from scratch. With no professional culinary schooling, Harvey does not call herself a chef because she feels that it’s an earned title.
“Our food is widely known and loved,” Harvey said. “I’ve always been a stickler when it comes to the quality of our food.
We do everything from scratch, and being gluten-free, it’s important. The quality of the food is also better when you make it from scratch.”
At fairs and festivals, Kimberly’s Gluten Free Kitchen is like finding water in the desert to people who can’t eat gluten.
“When I’m in North Conway, I do farmers markets and events, and I get repeat customers all the time,” Harvey said. “When we do festivals, especially at beer venues, people are ecstatic to see us because no one would think there would be a gluten-free option. At food truck festivals, they do a good job promoting who will be there, and then people will go because they know they can eat at one of the food trucks.”
Harvey and her team are having a lot of fun working on the truck and at all the events they go to. When asked if she would consider opening a brick-and-mortar location, Harvey gave a resounding “hell no!”
“I’m 52, and could easily consider myself semi-retired. It’s so flexible and fun, and I want to keep it that way.” NH
Most Popular Menu Item: The Chicken Taco, The Veggie Taco and the Poutine Tater Tots Find them at kimberlysglutenfreekitchen.net
603 Informer
A Perfect Finish Cummings Printing brings
BY SARAH PEARSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN BACHELDER
The press thunders along with a rhythm twice as fast as a heartbeat. Thousands of feet of paper inked in repeating images weave through rollers until they’re folded, separated and stacked into “logs.” The run finishes and, for a moment, this press quiets, though the warehouse is still full of the cacophony of the other humming presses, rolling conveyors, stacking bindery machines and slicing trim equipment.
Over the din, the sound of Indiana Jones’ “Raider’s March,” played by a tinkling carousel organ, is heard. Jobs are running smoothly today, and the song is an indication that plates for the next job are being loaded on to the press.
It’s time to print the July issue of New Hampshire Magazine.
After the staff have written stories, taken photos, designed pages, read everything and then edited again and again, they send over the files to Cummings Printing, who complete the monthly relay race of getting the publication into your hands.
Digital files are received from clients, like New Hampshire Magazine, by the pre-press department. The Cummings team checks everything from the resolution of graphics images to the sizing of the spine.
New Hampshire Magazine Art Director John Goodwin says the attention to detail is impeccable, with staff even spotting a newt — the tiny amphibian that has driven a long-time readership promotion
Press operator Steve Meisel checks the color reproduction of a 32-page form of New Hampshire Magazine’s July issue against the monitor’s digital reference as it comes off the press.
from upper left: Mark Hamel (in gray tee) speaks to staff from NH Magazine. Paper runs through the press, printing over 30,000 impressions per hour. The press folds page signatures. Signatures of NH Magazine roll down a conveyor. Rolls of paper for the press can be over 3,000 pounds. Aluminum plates are cut with the image to be printed. A screen displays the plates of NH Home.
Clockwise,
that had fallen off an advertisement in between drafts.
When the pre-flight files are greenlit, it’s off to the press room.
Sheets of coated aluminum are fed through the plate setter. An array of pages is cut into the coating. Four plates are needed for each set of pages, one for each ink used: black, cyan, magenta and yellow.
When the plates are done, they’re loaded onto carts and head out to the presses.
Cummings operates two main web-based presses, a Komori 38D 32-page press and a Toshiba. It also has a smaller single-feed press used for covers that have specialized coatings, like UV, soft touch and course texture.
The 110-year-old company has been offering web-based printing for about three decades from their 100,000-square-foot facility in Hooksett.
“Cummings stays on top of technology,” says Mark Hamel, the chief operating officer. That’s despite the immense cost of production, like the $9 million for their Komori 38D press, which prints New Hampshire Magazine.
The main presses feed paper off rolls
Cummings: Printing Through the Years
Cummings Publication Printing has been operating in New Hampshire for more than a century and is now run by the third and fourth generations of the Cummings family.
It was founded in 1914 by Lew A. Cummings out of a building in Concord and later relocated to Manchester after a fire destroyed the original building.
Printing in Manchester was a lucrative move, and by 1954, the company outgrew its Central Street home, so Cummings built a larger facility on Canal Street. That move came with a shift from letter press printing to a sheet-fed offset press.
Four years later, Lew Cummings died, and his son John Cummings took the helm.
The next generation saw the transition from hot type to four-color offset technology.
As the 1990s neared, magazines were transitioning to web printing technology. But there was no room for that new equipment at the Canal Street print shop.
Jack Cummings became president of the company in 1988 and led a five-year project to build the current plant in Hooksett, a then-65,000 (now 100,000) square-foot facility with new technology and streamlined processes.
The upgrades allowed Cummings to increase sales and complete projects more efficiently, contributing to its growth.
Cummings remains a family company, with Jack Cummings as president and owner. His sons Sam and Chris Cummings are co-chief executive officers, and both started working for the company as teens. But a family focus is not exclusive to its ownership. Chief Operating Officer Mark Hamel, who has been with the company since 1986, now works with his son Jacob, an account executive. Printer Steve Meisel has introduced his son Jeff to working on the presses.
The company has weathered some hard times: two world wars, the Great Depression, near-bankruptcy, and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, there were immense bidding wars over paper, as supply chains were disrupted and magazines folded or ceased printing.
Cummings was able to pivot to printing health materials for the government like millions of copies of instructions for rapid test kits and perforated health booklets.
“That kept a lot of people employed,” Hamel says. “We got through it, and we’re a better company because of it.”
With family and history behind it and an eye on evolving technology, Cummings is looking forward to a future of printing more high-quality publications.
weighing more than 3,000 pounds through a series of rollers. The page is printed — top and bottom — with the black plates, then the cyan, then magenta, and at last, yellow.
Hamel says they run the larger Komori at about 32,000 impressions per hour (iph), while the smaller press runs about 22,000 to 25,000 iph.
Then the paper continues to be fed through a dryer system to set the water-based ink. From there, on the larger presses, the paper is folded, and then the individual signatures are sliced apart. If the magazine is going to be perfect-bound, the inside edge is perforated. The signatures of folded pages are stacked into logs and brought to the binding machine, where they are collated with the other signatures.
With the pages stacked, they head down a bindery conveyor. For perfect-bound magazines, like New Hampshire Magazine, the inside pages are carried along a track. The fold is sliced off the spine. Then, the spine of the pages and about an 1/8-inch of the front and back pages are coated with glue. The cover sheet is pressed on to the spine and clamped around the sides.
While taking the time to travel on a spiral conveyor belt, the glue sets. The top, bottom and outer edges of the magazine are still oversized, so the magazines are stacked, a few at a time and trimmed to the final size.
Alternatively, for magazines getting a saddle-stitch finish, like our sister publication 603 Diversity, signatures are splayed open on a conveyor, collated and stapled.
The cut-offs of the saddle-stitched magazines, which don’t have glue, are baled and sent for recycling.
“Pretty much everything we do is recycled,” Hamel says.
Cummings ships out about two trucks a week of baled paper scraps. The aluminum plates from the press are also recycled.
After they are bound, the magazines may get a label if they’re being mailed, or are boxed for bulk delivery, or they may travel down a polybagging line where multiple publications are packaged together in a plastic seal.
This process is repeated for some 500 publications produced by Cummings each quarter.
Jobs range from a few thousand copies to as many as 400,000. The majority are runs similar in size to New Hampshire Magazine, about 20,000 to 30,000.
“That’s our sweet spot,” Hamel says. NH
Mark Hamel (center) and Sue Orr (left) talk to NH Magazine staff about the printing process and the publishing industry.
The Joy of Jodi
NH novelist Jodi Picoult battles book banning, gets goofy on TikTok and reconsiders the real Shakespeare
BY ELISA GONZALES VERDI
It’s a wonder New York Times bestselling author Jodi Picoult has had any time to unwind lately, between the book tour for her upcoming novel, keeping up with her thriving TikTok account, listening to Taylor Swift’s newest album and speaking out against book banning.
During a brief visit home to New Hampshire, we were able to catch up with the Hanover resident to talk about her new book, “By Any Other Name,” writing in today’s world, and how social media is helping her reach new audiences.
New Hampshire Magazine: Your new book, “By Any Other Name,” comes out on Aug. 20. What can you tell us about it?
Jodi Picoult: It’s the story of two women.
In 1581, it’s the story of Emilia Bassano, a female playwright whose work is not allowed before the public because she is a woman. She winds up paying a man for the use of his name, and his name happens to be William Shakespeare. In 2024, it’s also the story of her descendent, a woman named Melina Green, who has written a play about her ancestor Emilia, who can’t get it produced because theater is very much still a man’s world.
The question is whether she, too, will write herself out of history in order to see her work performed. To me, it’s really a book about art and legacy, and about how little has changed for women in 400 years. What makes it really fun, I think, is that Emilia Bassano is a real-life historical figure.
She was the first female published poet in England in 1611, and based on a wealth of research that I’ve done, I think there’s a good chance that she might have written some of the plays attributed to Shakespeare.
NHM: What made you want to tell this story?
JP: I had been reading The Atlantic, and there was an article by a woman named Elizabeth Winkler, and in it she was talking about the authorship question — which has been raised for years about whether or not Shakespeare actually authored plays. She was looking at whether there might be any women who were among those who could be potential authors, and one of the things that she said was that Shakespeare had two daughters who survived, and neither of them knew how to read or write, and they signed with the mark.
I thought, wait ... hang on a second. You know what I love the most about Shakespearean plays? The feminist characters. You’ve got Rosalind and Beatrice and Catherine and Portia, and I don’t buy it. I don’t buy the fact that a guy who could write such egalitarian women in the 1500s would not teach his own daughters how to read.
That kind of got me going down a rabbit hole, and the more I learned about Emilia, the more her life naturally seemed to plug up gaps and questions that we have about Shakespeare’s authorship that academics for years have twisted themselves in knots to explain away how he could have the information and the knowledge and the ability to write the things that he wrote. And without even trying, Emilia’s life just slotted right into all that.
NHM: Shifting gears, I love your TikTok account. You’re so funny! What got you online, and do you enjoy being on social media?
JP: There was no social media when I started writing. So much has changed with the rise of social media. I tend to use different formats to reach different people. Facebook is for women who are in their 40s, 50s and so on. There are the readers that tend to find me on their Instagram, where I’m more myself, because I’ll show you pictures of my grandkids or dogs. I used to be pretty political on Twitter, but I don’t post very much there anymore because it’s toxic.
TikTok was a format that I hadn’t really considered because I’m way too old for it, but someone approached me and asked if I would be interested in trying to get my
BY
PHOTO
TIM LLEWELLYN
The Truth and Lies About William Shakespeare
NHM: Were there any specific questions or gaps that you feel like Emilia’s life answered or filled?
JP: First, let me tell you a little bit about Shakespeare and a little bit about Emilia. What do we actually know about Shakespeare? We know factually that he was a businessman, a producer and an actor. We know he evaded taxes twice, and that he had restraining orders taken out on him multiple times by colleagues. We know that he jacked up the price of grain after hoarding it during a famine, and he sold it at a higher rate to his neighbors, and that he was really not a great guy. We also know that he never left the country, but he managed to write all these very detailed stories that involved Italy and Denmark and Egypt with details that weren’t available in guidebooks at the time.
He didn’t play an instrument, but there are over 300 very detailed references to music and musical instruments in the Shakespearean plays, and we know that he was self-educated, and that he didn’t go to university. When he died, he didn’t own a single book, and he wasn’t buried in Westminster Abbey, even though lots of poets and writers who you don’t even know were buried there. And when he died no other playwrights or poets mourned his loss publicly. That’s what we know about Shakespeare. Here’s what we don’t know: We don’t know that he wrote a single word. There’s just no proof of that.
Emilia was born to an Italian family, who were hidden Jews. They were Jewish, but they had tied their faith in England, and were talented musicians who were brought over from Italy to be the court recorder consort to King Henry VIII. When Queen Elizabeth took over, she kept them all on. When Emilia was 7 years old, she was given to a countess, who was this really feminist lady, who gave her a very rich, classical and legal education, which was very rare for women at the time. When Emilia was 12, the countess remarried, and Emilia was kind of stuck in limbo. So, she wound up living with the countess’s brother, Peregrine Vardy, for a year. He was a baron and the ambassador to Denmark. During the summer that she lived with him, he took a trip to Denmark, and probably either brought her with him or at least told her about the trip. When she was 13, she was given to the Lord Chamberlain of England to be his mistress, who was 56 at the time. She spent 10 years living with him, and what’s important about that is that the Lord Chamberlain was in charge of all theater in England. Every play that was written crossed his desk and had to be censored; he had to go to every rehearsal and opening nights. He knew every player in the theater community. Emilia, while living with him, absolutely would have been introduced to all of those players in the community.
When she got pregnant, she was kicked out of his house, and she wound up being married off to her cousin, who was a real jerk, who blew through all her money and left her in a state with a kid where she had to constantly try to make money to support her family. She had this drive to do something to make money. Then, in 1611, when she’s in her 40s, she publishes the first book of poetry by a woman in England, which is an extraordinary feat. But people don’t just walk into a publisher’s office at age 40 having never written anything before.
It’s my belief that she was writing and she just wasn’t doing it under her name. One example I find compelling is in “Othello.” Othello winds up killing his wife, Desdemona, and there’s this speech in it by Iago where, two lines in, he uses these really weird metaphors. He talks about a monkey, a goat and a woman who represents truth in a town called Bassano del Grappa. That’s this tiny little town in Italy where all of Emilia’s family is from. In the town square, there’s a big fresco with a mural on it, and in the mural, there is a monkey, a goat and a woman who represents truth. There are also two apothecaries in the town of Bassano del Grappa. One is run by a man named Othello. Then there’s the fact that between the first incarnation of Othello, which was published in the first quarto, and the one that was published in the First Folio a few years later, there are 161 new lines. Shakespeare died between the two versions, and we know he didn’t write the lines, and the lines are mostly given to Desdemona’s servant, and are a big, long soliloquy all about how women have the same flaws and fears and hopes as men, and how terrifying that should be to men. Of course, Desdemona’s servant’s name is Emilia. When you start picking apart stuff like that, it’s just too many coincidences.
books out on it. Booktok was already a big thing, and I was like, “I want to see if it makes a difference. Let’s do a little experiment. Let’s see if being on TikTok can bring me readers who are younger.”
What I hear most often is from people who are in their 20s or so being like, “Oh my God, I love you on TikTok,” which cracks me up and horrifies my children. It’s really fun. If you’re willing to make fun of yourself, people like you on TikTok. And I don’t take myself all that seriously.
NHM: Have you seen a shift into bringing in younger readers?
JP: If you read the comments on some of the videos, people are like, “OK, you’ve totally convinced me I’m pre-ordering this book,” or, “Oh my god, that’s it. I’m going to read this book now, and I’ve never read you before,” so I know it’s creating a
“It’s very frustrating, because the people who are doing the banning do not want to engage with us as authors.”
new audience. I gave a speech about book banning at Bucknell University, and I spoke to a creative writing class. And it was all young kids, and they were all like, “Oh my God, your TikTok is so fun.” I do think it’s bringing in a new generation of readers, which is awesome.
NHM: Speaking of the speech you gave about book banning, you’ve been really vocal lately, especially in New Hampshire, about Senate Bill 523 and the dangers of banning books. What is it like, as an author, to find out a book that you’ve written has been banned?
JP: It’s very frustrating, because the people who are doing the banning do not want to engage with us as authors. We have tried to speak out at school board meetings, and I had an open invitation and wrote to a superintendent in Wisconsin multiple times after a large number of my books were banned in a school district there, and they won’t even engage. They won’t talk to you, probably out of sheer embarrassment.
What’s the most upsetting to me is that the reason “Nineteen Minutes” (Picoult’s book) is banned is not because it’s about
GET YOUR GEAR
Off the Cuff with Jodi Picoult:
Songs on Repeat:
“Forever Like That” by Ben Rector “Fortnite” and “loml” by Taylor Swift (“I’m a major Swiftie over 50 — Taylor can you come to New Hampshire? I’ll open for you, even though I can’t sing!”)
Next on the reading list: “Whet” by Ali Hazelwood (“One of the perks of being an author is getting to read unpublished manuscripts — it comes out next year!
a school shooting. It’s because of the word “erection” on page 313. My books are not in elementary school libraries — my books are in high school libraries, and you cannot tell me that an anatomically correct word for a physical response is something that a high-schooler cannot understand or read.
The pearl-clutching that is going on is not protecting these kids, which is what the people who ban books want. What it is doing, is robbing them of tools to understand and deal with an increasingly complex world. That’s what books do. They help kids see themselves reflected, and they help them escape into worlds and lives that they have not lived. They create empathy, and book bans split us apart.
Having a book banned is not a badge of honor — it’s actually a really terrible thing. There are so many authors, mostly BIPOC and LGBTQ+ authors, and disproportionately female authors, who are feeling their livelihoods pinched because of these parental rights laws that have passed in states that allow parents to decide what other people’s children should and should not read, and that is wrong.
It is the first step on a very slippery slope. I think that when you start to think about the fact that it’s a very small group of people who are being very loud, all it takes is for all the rest of us to whisper and it will become a roar. We all just need to stand up.
NHM: Is book banning changing the climate of writing? Are authors worried about writing about certain topics because their book will be banned?
JP: I don’t know if the authors are the ones that are feeling that as much as the publishers are. There is an extreme fear of being canceled, and book bans are cancel culture. There is this overcorrection right now, especially in the young adult and middle-grade
I do not think there is a more perfect summer read than anything by Ali Hazelwood.”) Things To Do When In NH:
Swim. Hike. I wouldn’t rule out a maple creamie. Get the ice cream flight at SuperSecret Ice Cream. (“I would like to be their new spokesperson. It was delicious. I’m thinking: Taylor Swift, Super-Secret Ice Cream — we do a whole New Hampshire experience?”)
market, to sanitize books so that nothing can be considered offensive. I think it’s making kids really bored with reading.
I think you can have villains, and I trust kids to understand that when you read a fictional villain, it’s helping them learn the difference between right and wrong. I just think that this weird panic and overcorrection and this fear of being canceled is in some ways changing the landscape, particularly for that age group. Not so much in the fiction I write; I write adult fiction, so it’s a little different.
NHM: What do you like to do when you are back home in New Hampshire?
JP: Honestly, I like to be in my house because I’m not here often enough. And hanging out with my husband is awesome. I think that what I love the most about New Hampshire is that, for three seasons of the year, it is a destination for tourists (except for mud season, which nobody likes). It’s a place other people want to come, and I get to live here! That’s the beauty of living in New Hampshire. I just love the privilege of being able to live in a state that is on everybody else’s vacation bucket list.
NHM: What do you miss most about New Hampshire when you’re travelling?
JP: My husband for sure. But I also miss the sense of community. I think that sense of community also doesn’t exist as much as it does in New England, and I really kind of miss that. There’s this one bend on 89 when I’m coming home from the airport. It’s right around the rest stop; I think it’s around, like, Exit 10 or so, and you come around this curve and you turn to the right, and all of the Upper Valley is spread out like a bunch of jewels that are thrown in front of you. It never fails to take my breath away, because when I see that, it’s like, “Ah, I’m home.” NH
Blips
Monitoring appearances of the 603 on the media radar since 2006
Kelly Clarkson Gets Schooled
TV appearance spotlights collaborative art project
BY CASEY McDERMOTT
When an email from a daytime TV producer arrived in Sarah Mundy’s inbox earlier this spring, she was busy in her home ceramics studio. The Portsmouth High School art teacher doesn’t have a lot of spare time for her own pottery projects, outside of school breaks.
But this request, she soon realized, was worth making time for. “The Kelly Clarkson Show” wanted to have her on for a segment. She caught their eye with a TikTok about a collaborative art project, where she and her high school art students teamed up with
an elementary school art class to bring the younger kids’ drawings of monsters to life.
The show was eager to feature not just Mundy, but also her teaching partner, Dondero Elementary art teacher Adam Bastille, and a student from each class. But there was one catch. It was the middle of April vacation week, and that meant it would be hard to track everyone down. Somehow, Mundy said, they made it work — and the Portsmouth art project got its moment in the spotlight the first week of May.
“It was a miracle that it all worked out and we all got to New York City,” Mundy said.
For Mundy, though, it’s hardly the only instance in which her willingness to document her work — as an artist and an educator — has paid off. The Portsmouth High School and University of New Hampshire alumna has used Instagram to sell her own creative wares since about 2016, but like many teachers, she turned to TikTok during the pandemic to connect with others about how they were navigating the new COVIDera learning environment.
“I was trying to connect with other art teachers and kind of like using it as another avenue to see how to survive and how to keep my kids making art,” she said.
Since then, she’s leveraged her audience — more than 163,000 followers and counting — to raise money for a school custodian, landed a partnership with a kiln company and more.
Despite her vast digital footprint, Mundy said she’s careful to maintain boundaries between her personal and professional social media personas. She says she doesn’t let students follow her personal Instagram account. But she does let them follow her professional accounts on TikTok (@sajonesceramic) and Instagram (@sajceramic), because it’s a way to model how working artists use their platforms.
“Before I post something, I always think: Would it be OK if my student saw this? Would it be OK if their parents saw it? Would it be OK if my superintendent saw it?” she said. “I have to go through all these checks and balances in my brain to make sure that the content is appropriate and affirming and positive.”
Those platforms, like her recent TV appearance, are also another avenue for her to preach about the importance of arts education — particularly at a time when many arts programs are at risk due to funding cuts or other factors.
“There are a lot of students who really struggle in the more academic settings, and they just need a space to be creative and to express themselves,” she said. “Some of them learn what they want to do with their lives through taking art classes and just figuring out what they like.” NH
Adam Bastille, Sarah Mundy and two of her students on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Hay Fever
Putting up good quality hay is part art, part science, part experience and part dumb luck
STORY & PHOTOS BY MARSHALL HUDSON
I’ve got hay fever. Or maybe haying fever. Growing up on a New Hampshire dairy farm, I’ve been involved in the annual haying ritual for longer than I can remember. Family photos show me on a tractor or in a hay wagon before I could walk.
Perhaps that explains why I get an irresistible urge to be wrestling hay bales into the barn when the summer days gain daylight length and temperatures rise from warm to sweltering. I no longer keep cows or horses, so have no need to be putting hay away for the winter, but the pull of haying fever lures me to neighboring farms needing equipment operators and manual laborers during the scurry of New Hampshire’s hay season.
The old proverb says “Make hay while the sun shines,” and today the sun is shining, so I’m piloting a Massey Ferguson tractor towing a rake, around and around the field creating a hay windrow in an ever-tightening spiral. Yesterday I drove the same pattern on a John Deere tractor pulling a tedder. Tedding fluffs the hay and turns it over, speeding up the drying process.
Craig, driving a newer Massey Ferguson, is an hour or two behind me baling my windrow into square bales and spitting them onto the ground. Gary, operating a skid-steer loader, outfitted with an accumulator, gathers the individual bales into a 10-bale “raft,” which he then lifts as a unit and neatly stacks onto a wagon.
When I finish raking, I uncouple the rake, hitch up to hay wagons and begin shuttling loaded wagons to the barn, returning with empty ones. At the barn, college kids home for the summer and looking to earn some extra money are working up a sweat unloading the wagons.
The goal of hay-making is to capture the nutrients within the grasses and preserve them in a storable form for livestock feed during the winter months. Putting up good quality hay is part art, part science, part experience and part dumb luck. There are many uncontrollable variables that work against the most important factor, timing. Farmers must juggle the plant growth and optimal nutrient content, with the availability of temporary labor, uncooperative weather, other farm chores, equipment breakdowns and the reliability of weather forecasts.
Old-time farmers used to talk of cutting their hay around the Fourth of July, when holiday help was available and the hay was “stout with some bottom to it.” Although maximum growth yields occur around this time, the nutrient value is greater earlier in the season when plants contain higher concentrations of starches, proteins and minerals.
Mowing earlier in the season also provides more potential days for re-growth, leading to a better chance of a second or even third cutting crop. Second and third cuttings are typically leafier and higher in nutrients than the first cutting, so sometimes hay producers try to get an early first crop away from the field during rainy early summer weather. This allows the higher-
A skid-steer loader places a 10-bale raft onto the wagon.
“Tedding” is the process of fluffing up the hay and turning it over to speed up drying.
nutrient second-cutting legumes to get growing sooner.
Experienced hay-makers use the practices that work best for them, but that may be contrary to the technique used by the next farmer. Some farmers prefer to mow early in the morning to gain almost a full day of drying time, but others opt for the end of the day when the morning dew is burned off and the grass is drier to start with.
Some producers rely on the predictions of TV weathermen to plan their hay-making, but old-timers not trusting the forecasts like to mow immediately after a rainstorm, gambling on the likelihood of a few days of good weather as the storm clears out.
Hay-makers now have the option of using an electronic moisture test meter to confirm whether the hay is ready to bale, but experienced producers rely on the feel to determine if it is ready to be put into the barn. Ideally, hay is baled when the moisture content is between 15% and 18%. Hay stored at more than 22% is at risk for spontaneous combustion. Insufficiently cured “wet” hay has been blamed for many
barns burning to the ground.
With the unpredictability of New Hampshire weather and the unreliable availability of temporary manual labor, many farmers have switched to putting up their hay in large round bales wrapped in plastic or chopping it as silage. This requires less
manual labor and fewer consecutive dry sunny days, but it requires the purchase and maintenance of specialized equipment. The need for baled hay still remains for smaller farms, or for sale to horse owners, landscapers and for erosion-control barriers on construction projects.
In my youth, every bale needed to be manhandled several times before it was finally fed to the cow or horse. Picking up bales in the field and throwing them up to the designated stacker atop a semi-loaded wagon took physical strength and a practiced swing and release technique. A missed throw meant the bale would come tumbling back down and, like Sisyphus, you’d have to throw it back up again, handling it yet another time.
As the load on the wagon grew taller, and you grew more tired, re-throws became more frequent. But even this repeated bale handling was considerably easier than the haying done a generation earlier when it was cut by hand with a scythe, raked with a bull rake, and loose-loaded onto a horsedrawn wagon with a pitchfork.
Advancements in farm machinery have made hay-making less labor intensive than a generation or two ago, but it is still a tiring proposition requiring energy, commitment and endurance. As grueling as it may be, I have fond memories of hay season from my youth. For me, mid-summer happiness includes being sunburned, sweaty, itchy with hay chaff, and looking at 300 bales on a wagon to be unloaded with 300 more waiting to be picked up in the field.
This hay fever must be making me delirious. NH
Three hundred bales on the ground waiting to be picked up.
Top: Old family photo shows a younger Marshall Hudson with brother Mark, team-loading heavy bales.
Above: From Marshall Hudson’s old family album: a three-wagon hitch shows a good hay season.
Michael Blanchette: “The Crawford Depot, also known as Maine Central Passenger Railway Station, is a historic passenger railroad station at the top of Crawford Notch in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The station was built in 1891, one of the surviving emblems of yesteryear when it services the large resort hotels in the area. It’s one of the finest examples of Queen Anne railroad architecture in New England. These days, it is the terminus of most tourist trains of the Conway Scenic Railroad. I took this photo at around 2 a.m. on a moonless morn in May.”
Skywatchers
Local stargazers share their love for the hobby
BY EMILY REILY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BLANCHETTE
n a clear dark night in New Hampshire, a world that’s much bigger than ours and just as mysterious appears in the sky. Besides the moon, Earth’s only natural satellite, you can spot planets — angry Jupiter, bright Venus, the many-ringed Saturn and the fiery red Mars — among glittering star constellations and clusters. Constellations rotate seasonally around the world, but the Big Dipper, for example, is always somewhere above
New Hampshire, and can be seen without a telescope.
Another constellation, the gallant Roman warrior, Orion, aims his star-studded arrow at a hidden foe, while the Big Dipper dumps more stars into the sky. Tiny galaxies hover nearby.
Meteor showers — pieces of rocks under intense friction — burn and glow as they fall through our atmosphere to become “shooting stars.”
Phenomenon like nebulas, giant clouds of gas and dust, stem from interstellar chaos such as the catastrophic remains of a dying supernova. New orbs are birthed there using materials from “star nurseries” like the Crab Nebula, Orion Nebula and Horsehead Nebula. You can even glimpse the Milky Way here, the road map to our place in the universe.
These galaxies and star factories were formed epochs ago, but today, views of the night sky here and around the world are dimming, hindered by artificial light from computers, phones, and on billboards, gas stations and streetlights. The Horsehead Nebula can be seen from Earth with some work, but light pollution has made it even more evasive.
Regardless, there are still plenty of New Hampshire residents who love to “stargaze” — using telescopes or the naked eye to view our solar system and everything inside it — and encouraging others to do the same.
Starry gatherings
The nonprofit New Hampshire Astronomical Society has a healthy membership of about 200, and numbers are steadily growing, thanks to public outreach and education.
For example, the late Dr. Brian Marsden, a British astronomer, once gave a talk about the inner politics that revolved around demoting Pluto to a minor planet in 2006.
Marsden was a member of the IAU Minor Planet Center, an organization that collects data about smaller bodies in the heavens, such as minor planets like asteroids, and comets — small icy bodies in the solar system that can leave a broad “tail” of light as they pass near the Sun.
Other events take place in downtown Portsmouth, where passersby can take a peek at the sky using telescopes; and present talks for local groups.
The NHAS meets monthly during “Super Stellar Fridays” at the McAuliffeShepard Discovery Center in Concord, and the group often brings along telescopes for the public to peruse. The society also holds free “sky watch” stargazing events at libraries as well as at Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough.
They also conduct sky watches at the observatory at the H.A. Rey Cultural Center in Waterville Valley, where Curious George author Hans Rey lived.
One reason the author chose that area was because it had such dark skies. While there in the 1950s, Rey began redrawing constellation patterns to make them more user-friendly and easily identifiable, especially for kids. He called the book “The Stars: A New Way to See Them.”
NHAS Secretary Paul Winalski of Merrimack joined the NHAS in 2004, but has always looked up at the stars.
“My mom has pictures that I drew in nursery school of stars and planets. I've always
been interested in what's going on in the sky,” Winalski says.
Growing up in Connecticut, a place marked by “semi-rural cow pasture,” Winalski remembers seeing the Pleiades, or the Seven Sisters, a brilliant cluster of stars that emits a saintly blue light.
To fuel his passion, his parents bought him a telescope, where he viewed more distant objects.
Finding constellations
A good way to begin learning about the night sky, Winalski says, is to find familiar constellations. The Big Dipper may be the easiest. It’s a prominent group of stars that forms an angular, upside-down ladle, with a “handle” to its right. The constellation Orion is identified by an orderly group of three stars that form Orion’s belt in the southern part of the sky. To find the Pleiades, in the constellation Taurus, use Orion’s three-star belt as a place holder, then look up and to the right to find this bright collection shaped like a small dipper.
Though the best viewing often takes place north of the White Mountains, several places in southern New Hampshire are still ideal for gazing.
“We are actually fairly blessed in that we have probably the best skies in the whole country,” says Winalski, adding that you’ll see more when you get about 10 miles outside urban areas.
“The main thing is to get away from the artificial light. You don't have to go too far to get reasonable skies,” Winalski says.
Winalski counts the Leonids as his
Michael Blanchette: “The Swift River runs some 25 miles in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The river is a tributary of the Saco River, which flows to the Atlantic Ocean in Maine. The Perseids is a prolifc meteor shower that reaches its peak in August. Meteors appear to originate from the Constellation Persus, hence its name. This photo was taken mid-August near Rocky Gorge off the Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.”
favorite meteor shower for the sheer number of shooting stars that can be seen, especially every 33 years, at its height. Viewing the Leonids in November, 1998, during this apex, was an experience that stuck with him.
“I decided that if I counted fewer than 200 meteors per hour, I would go indoors because it was getting too cold. I started at midnight. And I actually went indoors at 5 a.m., and that was because the sun came up,” he says.
“One of the most spectacular sites I have ever seen,” Winalski adds.
Getting kids involved in space
NHAS member and astrophotographer Ed Ting of Amherst also became interested in astronomy as a kid. After a physics teacher told him he could make his own telescope, he researched it and made one using a mirror mined from a photocopier.
“That was the best day of school I ever had,” Ting says.
Though he still has that tool, today Ting
uses a more advanced telescope to find possible undiscovered stars and planets in deep space, as well as to “comet-hunt.” He says amateur astronomers he calls “weekend warrior dads,” who do the latter, because there’s a chance at fame, though maybe not fortune.
“Something hit Jupiter a couple of years ago, and the professionals didn't catch it. If you discover something that no one's found before, they'll name it after you. So, for a few months, everyone around the world will be speaking your name,” Ting adds.
The former president of the NHAS, Ting is also a “Solar System Ambassador,” a program through NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The program, first proposed by a New Hampshire teacher, is a public outreach program in which volunteers spread the word about NASA’s space program and its discoveries.
Ting is working to get kids around the world interested in what's in the night sky. Through the ACEAP, the Astronomy in
Chile Educator Ambassadors Program, Ting is also part of a pilot program that’s working to bring telescopes into elementary schools in disadvantaged parts of Chile.
Ting says the country, with 330 clear nights a year, high elevation and low humidity, is one of the best places in the world to stargaze.
In New Hampshire, Ting also educates schoolchildren and hosts sky watches. When kids are around age 10 to 12, he says it’s the ideal time to teach them about the stars, planets and moon cycles.
“Kids are just naturally curious,” says Ting.
To get kids interested in these abstract concepts and make skywatching more easily accessible to the public, NHAS member and solar system ambassador Marc Stowbridge went one step further.
In 2008, Stowbridge, of South Tamworth, spearheaded the Library Telescope Program. Around 15 years ago, after the NHAS held a skywatch at Brentwood Public
Michael Blanchette: “Stark is a small town located in the Great North Woods of New Hampshire. The town includes a historic covered bridge and the historic Stark Union Church that was built in 1853. I took the photo in late August as the Milky Way sailed over the scenic Stark Covered Bridge, with the Stark Union Church by its side. The green on the lower left side of the Milky Way is “airglow,” a natural phenomenon caused by a faint emission of light in the atmosphere.”
Above: A mother and her son use a reflector telescope to check out the moon at dusk at Rey Cultural Center in Waterville Valley last July. The New Hampshire Astronomical Society has worked with elementary schools to educate schoolchildren about the night sky, and hosts sky watches to expand kids' natural curiousity.
❛❛It’s taking a bunch of multicolored neon signs, putting them in a bag, jumping up and down, and throwing them up into the sky.
❜❜
— Marc Stowbridge
❛❛Our star is one of 300 billion stars that are in our Milky Way galaxy, which is one galaxy out of several billion galaxies.❜❜
— Paul Winalski
Library, they gifted the society with a $200 donation. Stowbridge wanted to give more people access to telescopes so that they could see what he does.
Interest in the program snowballed. Now, at least 132 public libraries around the state carry Orion StarBlast 4.5 reflector telescopes, that come with instruction booklets about constellations that patrons can borrow. The program has since spread nationwide and globally.
Today, according to the website, more than 1,000 libraries in seven countries take part in the Library Telescope Program. Stowbridge says about 3,000 telescopes are out there helping people understand the night sky.
Solar-gazing
One of Stowbridge’s favorite sky activities is “solar-gazing,” using special equipment on his telescope to locate dark sunspots on the star’s surface.
“Looking at it through these special telescopes, you can see all the features that you would never see otherwise. And it's just a lot of fun,” Stowbridge says.
The way Stowbridge explains it, viewing the stars is like going back in time.
“Well, as people are fond of saying in the business, telescopes are time machines,” says Stowbridge.
He explained that the Sun is 93 million miles away. At the speed of light, that’s about eight and a half minutes in the past. When we see the Sun (only using special safety glasses), we only see the star as it looked 8 1/2 minutes ago.
Stowbridge made more comparisons:
“The Hercules cluster M 13 is 22,200–25,000 light-years away from Earth. When light from there started coming here, the Romans were having issues with the folks in Carthage. The Andromeda galaxy, that's 2.5 million light years away. When light from there started coming here, banging rocks together was high-tech for humans,” Stowbridge says.
He described the Orion Nebula almost as you would a kaleidoscope.
“It’s taking a bunch of multicolored neon
signs, putting them in a bag, jumping up and down, and throwing them up into the sky. There are pinks and greens and little speckles of baby stars all through it. It's just lovely,” says Stowbridge.
He says the Ring Nebula is another pretty sight – a literal explosion of constantly moving color.
“It's this delightful red and sort of pink and green smoke ring, and there's a bright, little, tiny star in the middle that went nova two years ago. And what you're looking at with that ring is the explosion of expanding outward,” Stowbridge says.
But for him, the real magic is when people finally spot the moon, a planet or a constellation after looking through the telescope.
“They say ‘I don't see anything. I don't see anything…. Oh, my God, look at that.’ And I know that they have. My favorite thing to see to telescope is somebody going, ‘Wow.’ When I'm there doing solar observing, I'm observing people. It's just delightful fun,” Stowbridge says.
To teach kids about the Sun, he uses what he calls “technical terms.”
He’ll tell them, ‘Oh, I see the ‘freckles’ — sunspots. I see the ‘fuzzies’ — the prominences, and I see the orange peel, which are called granulation. Those are the thermal cells of plasma opening up,” Stowbridge says.
And eruptions on the face of the Sun he coined “squiggles.”
“They look like somebody took a Sharpie to the surface of the sun,” he says.
Photographing the sky
Some fans, like local photographer Michael Blanchette of Bedford, travel the state and the world to photograph stars, planets and meteors showers, the aurora borealis, total solar eclipses (like the one last April) and the Milky Way.
Blanchette says while shooting the night sky can be challenging, it’s all about gathering and using light. He recommends using digital single-lens reflex (SLRs) cameras with interchangeable lenses, such as an f 2.8 aperture lens, that let in a lot of light.
→“The Albany Covered Bridge is often called the most photogenic covered bridge in New Hampshire, always a photographer’s favorite at the peak of the fall season. It doesn’t hurt that it’s located along the very scenic Kancagamus Highway in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire, only 6 miles west of the tourist-friendly town of Conway. I took this photo on a July evening. The image is a composite of several frames. The foreground and bridge were photographed at dusk to limit movement and noise, while the sky was photographed later in the evening once the Milky Way was in position. The brighest star over the bridge roof is Jupiter, with smaller Saturn at its side.”
The faster that your lens can collect light, the sharper the stars will be in your photos, he says.
“It brings in more light faster so you can take a faster image, a faster shot, if you keep (the lens) open,” Blanchette says. You also need a tripod to keep the camera as still as possible to avoid camera shake.
Blanchette also suggests incorporating photos of the moon and sky with local landmarks, like churches, railroads, covered bridges or lighthouses that can provide fantastic backdrops for nightly shows.
“Barns look great with the Milky Way,” Blanchette says.
Blanchette says you can shoot at places like Rye Beach as long as you’re pointing your lens out to the ocean, but some beaches have spotlights that won’t help your cause. He suggests people face away from brightly lit cities and watch for smoke or haze from forest fires that can obscure the sky.
Blanchette likes photographing these faraway objects and putting them in the context of local landscapes because it takes some work to be successful at it.
”I just like the experience of being out there. It makes you feel kind of small. You are staring at the various galaxies, and it's just pretty amazing. And I like the challenge as well.”
Winalski says stargazing — the ability to view our solar system and universe — also reminds us of our tiny place in existence, Winalski says.
“We are on one planet out of eight or nine, orbiting our star, the Sun. And our star is one of 300 billion stars that are in our Milky Way galaxy, which is one galaxy out of several billion galaxies.”
Stargazing is a source of endless learning and wonderment, he says.
“The night sky is just wonderful to look at. And I find that the more I know about science, the more wonderful you become. It's just a lot of fun, really. It's magnificent. And if you're religious, then this is probably the biggest gift that God has given us — our ability to see the sky.”
Visit nhastro.com for more information on upcoming events. NH
Starlinks Stargazing
resources
LIGHTS OUT!
Light pollution map: lightpollutionmap.info
International Dark Sky Association: darksky.org
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center: starhop.com
New Hampshire Astronomical Society: nhastro.com
The Rey Cultural Center: thereycenter.org
Dark Sky Places in NH: go-astronomy.com/dark-sky-parks-stargazing-state.php?State=NH Library Telescope Program: librarytelescope.org
VisitNH-Stargazing spots: visitnh.gov/Blog/6-Spots-for-Stargazing
TheSKyLive: theskylive.com
Keene Amateur Astronomers: keeneastronomy.org
Michael Blanchette Photography: instagram.com/blanchettephotos/?hl=en How to stargaze: science.nasa.gov/solar-system/skywatching/how-to-find-good-places-to-stargaze
EarthSky: earthsky.org
American Meteor Society: amsmeteors.org
Sky & Telescope: skyandtelescope.org
NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory: sdo.gsfc.nasa.gov
New Hampshire Space Grant Consortium: nhsgc.unh.edu/index.html
ONLINE STAR / GALAXY MAPS: theskylive.com/planetarium in-the-sky.org/skymap.php stellarium.org
stargazersonline.org
Hubble’s Messier Skymap: www3.nasa.gov/skymap/messier/
MORE NIGHT SKY VIEWING:
Androscoggin Wayside Park, Errol
Coleman State Park, Stewartstown
Crawford Notch State Park, Hart’s Location (also Crawford Notch Depot)
Dixville Notch State Park, Colebrook
Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg
Lake Tarleton State Park, Piermont
Mollidgewock State Park, Errol
Mount Washington State Park
Umbagog Lake State Park, Errol, Tamworth
White Mountain National Forest
Francestown Barn
Pemigewasset Overlook, Lincoln Lake Solitude, Mount Sunapee
UPCOMING METEOR SHOWERS:
Perseids: July 14 to Sept. 1
Orionids: Sept. 26 to Nov. 22
Southern Taurids: Sept. 23 to Dec. 8
Northern Taurids: Oct. 13 to Dec. 2
Leonids: Nov. 3 to Dec. 2
Geminids: Nov. 19 to Dec. 24
Ursids: Dec. 13-24
Quadrantids: Dec. 26, 2024 to Jan. 16, 2025
APPS: Planets
Google SkyMap
Sky Portal
SkyView Lite Night Sky Windy
Weather Underground
SOUTHERN NH VIEWING AREAS: Joppa Hill, Bedford Holman Stadium, Nashua Waterville Valley
Warner
Hillsborough
Muster Field Farm Museum, North Sutton Chocorua Lake, Tamworth
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Free public sessions at UNH Observatory: ceps.unh.edu/physics-astronomy/unh-observatory Stargazing at Rey Cultural Center, all in front of the Curious George Cottage: thereycenter.org/rey-astronomy-today.html
Aug. 3 at 9:30 p.m.
Sept. 7 at 8:30 p.m.
Oct. 5 7:30 at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.
Dec. 28 at 6 p.m.
Stellafane Convention of Amateur Telescope
Makers, Breezy Hill, Springfield, Vermont: Aug. 1-4; stellafane.org/convention
Solar gazing at Castle in the Clouds: castleintheclouds.org/calendar-of-events/ Super Stellar Fridays at McAuliffe-Shepard: starhop.com/ssf
“I took this photo at Muster Field Farm Museum, an 18th century historic homestead with restored farm buildings and a working farm, on a moonless night in July. The foreground building and flowers were photographed at dusk to ensure in-focus and noise-free subjects. The sky was photographed some two hours later after the end of astronomical twilight. The bright star above the horizon and just to the left of the tree branch is Jupiter, with Saturn to its immediate left.”
New Hampshire Magazine’s first reader-submitted photography contest shows off the unique character of the Granite State
WE WERE EXCITED to announce our first reader photo contest a couple months ago, and now that we’ve seen the winners, our excitement rivals that of Best of NH season (maybe).
Our talented photographers — Jenn Bakos, John Hession and Joe Klementovich — took on the difficult task of judging submissions, which included more than 700 photos ranging from baby raccoons in trees to Seacoast sunsets to snowy North Conway landscapes.
One thing’s for sure: If you didn’t love living in New Hampshire before, you certainly will now. All of our winning photos and honorable mentions perfectly capture the charm, beauty, sophistication and prestigious character of the state, welcoming us into the picturesque moments that make New Hampshire home.
Along with being featured in print, our winners received a cash prize (1st place: $500; 2nd place: $300; 3rd place: $200). All winners and honorable mentions will also receive a 1-year subscription to New Hampshire magazine.
2ND PLACE WINNER ↑ Harry Lichtman from Newmarket, NH | Shot with: Nikon D850 Taken at Lakes of Clouds, White Mountains
"I took this as I was completing a hut-to-hut traverse of the Presidential Range with my brother and two nephews along the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire's White Mountains. During our last morning along the trek, I awoke well before sunrise to capture some alpine images, some of which included Lakes of the Clouds Hut at just over 5,000 feet elevation. Since no one was awake at that time, I included myself in the image using a self-timer and tripod — running back and forth between the camera and trail to capture different angles, changes in lighting and my position on the trail. I felt a hiker was needed with the hut and stunning scenery in the background to complete the story.”
1ST PLACE WINNER ↑
Kelly Norcross from Templeton, MA | Shot with: Nikon D7100 | Taken in Pittsburg, NH
"I go out in my kayak a lot to photograph wildlife. This particluar morning, some friends wanted to go out with me to see if we could watch some moose. It was July 5. We were out on the water just before sunrise when this beautiful bull moose came into the water to eat. He started to swim at a deep part then stepped up on land at a shallow part, right when I caught the picture. I had a zoom lens, and we stayed a safe distance from him and very still."
HONORABLE MENTION ↑
Taken at Hampton Beach, NH
“I was amazed by the appearance and colors in the clouds in contrast to the brightness of the rising sun. I had to capture the raw beauty of it all.”
AnnMarie Forcier from Shelton, CT | Shot with: Canon EOS Rebel T3
← 3RD PLACE WINNER (TIE)
Arthur Coy from Webster, NH
Shot with: Sony ILCE-7M3
Taken in Webster, NH
“The dogs were interested in something under our grill, so I went and looked and there were three baby raccoons that wandered down from their tree where their mom was. For the next hour or so, I just took pictures of them while they explored and eventually climbed back up the tree and back to their mom!”
HONORABLE MENTION ↑
Peter Bolton from Plymouth, NH | Shot with: Nikon d600 | Taken in Plymouth, NH “My wife fed the chipmunks peanuts daily and they regularly ate on Pan’s head. When I spotted the chipmunk apparently mimicking Pan’s hands, I couldn’t resist taking a photo or two.”
3RD PLACE (TIE) ↑
Laurie LaPorte from Henniker, NH | Shot with: Olympus E-M1Mark III | Taken in Henniker, NH
“Our family lives next to a farm in Henniker, and my son loves everything about the farm, especially the machinery. For his 6th birthday in September, the farmer gifted him his own tractor toy. When he saw the tractor out working, he ran to get his own tractor to push around as the farmer drove by.”
HONORABLE MENTION ↑
Eric Goodwin from San Diego, Calif.| Shot with: Sony ILCE-6400 | Taken in downtown Portsmouth
"I spent a day walking around Portsmouth in early January with my mom and my camera, and right before we left, I saw and captured this last shot! The dramatic contrast of light and dark and of blue and orange light, along with the silhouetted figure (my mom), made this snowy shot really stand out to me."
HONORABLE MENTION →
Christopher A. Murphy from Concord, NH
Shot with: Nikon D850
Taken at: Sugar Hill, NH
“This shot was taken during a snowstorm after coming back from Stark, NH. I stopped at Sugar Hill to check on conditions, and the church looked amazing with the wind blowing off the roof on both sides. I chose to edit in black and white because the lighting looked so much better that way.”
HONORABLE MENTION ↑
“The photo from our dock across from Dog Cove on Squam Lake was taken near dusk toward the end of last summer. It was barely sprinkling outside, more like misting, creating the display of little white spots caught by the camera as the droplets fell. We could see from the house that it was going to be a beautiful sunset so we rushed down to the dock to find the just-barely-turning-color leaves highlighted by the remaining sunlight that was being reflected on the water.”
Bobbi Clarke from Center Harbor, NH | Shot with: iPhone 14 Pro | Taken on Squam Lake, NH
HONORABLE MENTION ↑
“It was a beautiful day with lots of people around. I wanted a different image of a popular scene, so I lowered my angle to eliminate the people above the falls. When I did that, the juxtaposition of the pine tree reflection and the slow shutter speed gave me that different look.”
Michael Hubley from Londonderry, NH | Shot with: Nikon Z6ii 24-120 F-4 lens | Photo taken at: Diana's Baths in the White Mountains, NH
Jenn Bakos is a Portsmouth-based photographer whose work often appears in the pages of New Hampshire Magazine. She loves to document and capture the special moments in life, and she specializes in food, product, lifestyle, editorial and brand photography. Check out more of her work at jennbakosphoto.com and instagram.
Joe Klementovich specializes in outdoor sports and environmental photography and has shot everything from Mount Washington to the Everglades. Check out more of his work at klementovichphoto.com and instagram.com/klementovich.
John W. Hession is an accomplished photographer and filmmaker specializing in architecture, design, food and advertising. John has long been New Hampshire Home magazine’s photo editor, and his work can be found at advanceddigitalphotography.com.
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Michael R. Dion Derry diondmd.com
Mukunda Dogiparthi
Sterling Smiles of Nashua Nashua sterlingsmilesofnashua.com
Ernani S. Domingo Bay Street Family Dental Manchester baystreetfamilydental.com
Courtney A. Dressler Hampstead Family Dental Hampstead hampsteadfamilydental.com
Keith A. Dressler Hampstead Family Dental Hampstead hampsteadfamilydental.com
Carla F. Dukas We Care Dental Nashua wecaredentalpllc.com
Richard T. Dumas Dover Dental Associates Dover doverdental.net
Alyssa Ebright Ebright & Smart Family Dentistry Londonderry londonderrydentist.com
Audrey P. Elliott New Boston Dental Care New Boston newbostondental.com
Nick I. Fleury Circle Dental Meredith circledentalnh.com
Gregory Fredette Garrison Family Dental Dover (603) 742-8844
Robert Fromuth Fromuth and Langlois Dental Manchester manchesterbedforddentist.com
Gordon F. Geick Londonderry gfgdental.com
TOP VOTE-GETTER: GENERAL DENTISTRY
Jeffrey Vachon Vachon Dental
TOP VOTE-GETTER: ORTHODONTICS
Sogole S. Moin Moin Orthodontics
Kelly M. Ginnard Manchester drkellyginnard.com
Whitney E. Goode Goodwin Community Health Somersworth goodwinch.org
Timothy J. Goslee Great Bay Dental Care Newmarket greatbaydentalcare.com
Salvatore Guerriero Nashua Smile Makers Nashua nashuasmilemakers.com
William Guthrie Bedford Dental Care Bedford bedforddentalcare.com
Carol M. Haddad Manchester drhaddad.com
Curtis Hansen Lindner Dental Associates
Bedford lindnerdental.com
Jill Harrison Harrison Dental Arts Portsmouth HarrisonDentalArts.com
Michael R. Hamel 603-668-3202
Kristen Harvey White Park Dental Concord whiteparkdental.com
E. Thomas Hastings Hastings Dental Health Swanzey hastingsdentalhealth.com
Hubert W. Hawkins IV Dr. Hugh’s Dental Littleton drhughsdental.com
Matthew S. Heimbach Abenaki Dental Care Exeter abenakidentalcare.com
Benjamin Irzyk
Hometown Dental Portsmouth hometowndentalnh.com
Andrew Janiga Center for Dental Excellence Nashua nashuadental.com
Lauren R. Johnson
New Boston Dental Care New Boston newbostondentalcare.com
Tamatha L. Johnson
Brentwood Dental Designs Epping bddnh.com
Ashleigh F. Jones
Lakes Region Dental Care Gilford lakesregiondentalcare.com
B. Chandler Jones
Lakes Region Dental Care Gilford lakesregiondentalcare.com
Donna L. Kalil
Kalil & Kress Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Nashua kalilandkress.com
Kenneth J. Kalil
Kalil Dental Associates Windham kalildental.com
Michelle Kalil
Kalil & Kress Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Nashua kalilandkress.com
Nicholas Kanelos, Jr. Garrison Family Dental Dover (603) 742-8844
Julia Kapala Merrimack Smiles Merrimack merrimacksmiles.com
Melissa A. Kennell Children’s Dentistry Gilford childrensdentistnh.com
Puneet Kochhar
Alliance for Dental Care Rochester alldentalcare.com
Beth A. Kress
Audrey A. Herod Merrimack Dental Associates Merrimack merrimackdental.com
Andrea Herold Herold Family Dentistry Portsmouth heroldfamilydentistry.com
Bryan R. Hoertdoerfer Hoertdoerfer Dentistry Manchester bruinsdentist.com
Joshua D. Howard JD Howard Dental Dover howarddental.com
Danielle Leonardi
Glen Lake Dental Goffstown glenlakedentalnh.com
Keith M. Levesque
Levesque Dentistry Nashua levesquedentistry.com
Tara Levesque-Vogel Levesque Dentistry Nashua levesquefamilydentistry.com
Franklyn Liberatore
Nashua Riverfront Dentistry Nashua nashuariverfrontdentistry.com
Jody B. Low Dover drjodylow.com
Brian T. Maguire
North Hampton Dental Group North Hampton northhamptondentalgroup.com
Praveen K. Mandera Govindaiah New Hampshire Family Dentistry Manchester nhfamilydentist.com
Nellita M. Manley
Piscataqua Dental Partners Portsmouth piscataquadental.com
Russell D. Mann Mann Family Dental Manchester mannfamilydental.com
Barry F. McArdle Portsmouth mcardledmd.com
Christina McCann Generations Dental Care Concord generationsdental.com
Jennifer A. McConathy Cochecho Dental Dover cochechodental.com
Alex L. McCulloch Grace Family Dentistry Concord gracefamilydentistry.com
Barton E. McGirl Hampton yoursleepdentist.com
Kalil & Kress Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Nashua kalilandkress.com
Heidi Lindner Kurland
Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Matthew C. Leighton
Ponemah Crossing Dental Amherst clarkandleighton.com
Samuel J. Lemeris Greatview Dental Exeter greatviewdental.com
Michele R. Morrow
Hampshire Family Dental Raymond hampshirefamilydental.com
Michael Moskowitz
Vanguard Dental Group Derry vanguarddentalgroup.com
Sayed A. Mousawi Hampton Family Dental Hampton hamptoncosmeticdental.com
James M. Nash North Hampton Dental Group North Hampton northhamptondentalgroup.com
Tarin Nassaney Alliance for Dental Care Rochester alldentalcare.com
Brindha Natarajan Towne Square Dental Londonderry mylondonderrydentist.com
Jay A. Nesvold Atlantic Family Dental Portsmouth atlanticfamilydental.com
Darcy A. Neveu Merrimack cardamoneandneveudental.com
Lindsey M. O’Connor Goffstown Dental Associates Goffstown goffstowndental.com
Cheryl A. Ogden Goffstown Dental Associates Goffstown goffstowndental.com
Raymond Orzechowski, Jr. Concord orzechowskiarndt.com
Joshua T. Osofsky Family Dental Care of Milford Milford familydentalcareofmilford.com
Michael J. Paisner Paisner Dental Associates Nashua drpaisner.com
Emily Pakula Moriarty Hillside Family Dental Candia hillsidedentalnh.com
Kelley McLaughlin Goodwin Community Health Somersworth goodwinch.org
Daphnie Mercado Chestnut Family Dental Manchester chestnutfamilydental.com
Christopher S. Moriarty North End Dental Care Manchester northenddentalcarenh.com
Mark S. Morris Merrimack Smiles Merrimack merrimacksmiles.com
Stephan L. Peterson Peterson’s Family Dental Dover petersonsfamilydental.com
Darren M. Phipps New London newlondondentists.com
Janice E. Pilon Hanover deckerpilondental.com
Charles Pipilas Nashua (603) 881-8280
Sree J. Raman Smiles by Design Manchester newhampshiresmiledentistry.com
Nicholas C. Rizos Bedford drnickdmd.com
James R. Rochefort Dover dovernhdentist.com
Laurie A. Rosato Concord LaurieRosatoDMD.com
Craig Rothenberg Vanguard Dental Group Derry vanguarddentalgroup.com
Christiane M. Rothwangl Rothwangl Dental Care Bedford rothwangldentalcare.com
Amy Rust Vachon Dental Manchester vachondental.com
Muhenad Samaan Manchester Dental Manchester manchestercitydental.com
Felix Santamaria Concord Dental Group Concord concorddentalgroup.com
Carmen V. Santana Bay Breeze Dentistry Portsmouth baybreezedentistry.com
Angela J. Santavicca Santavicca Dental Professionals Lebanon santaviccadental.com
Jonathan C. Palazzo Manchester jonathanpalazzodmd.com
Paul Pasternack Granite Dental Group Barrington granitedentalgroup.com
Greg A. Perry Perry Family Dental Care Antrim perryfamilydentalcare.com
Jessica Peterson Peterson Family Dental Dover petersonsfamilydental.com
Thomas G. Schell Schellnoble Dentistry Lebanon schellnoble.com
Lora D. Selle Anchor Dental Portsmouth anchordentalnh.com
Vicktor G. Senat Dovetail Dental Associates Amherst dovetaildental.com
Christopher N. Skaperdas Skaperdas Dental Manchester dentistnh.com
Amanda Smith Nashua Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry Nashua NashuaDentistry.com
Margaret I. Spargimino
Hooksett Family Dental Hooksett hooksettfamilydental.com
Elizabeth S. Spindel
Spindel General and Cosmetic Dentistry Manchester elizabethspindel.com
Victoria Spindel-Rubin
Spindel General and Cosmetic Dentistry Manchester elizabethspindel.com
Lesleyann M. Splagounias Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Victor Stetsyuk Generations Dental Care Concord generationsdental.com
Natalia G. Streltsov Summer Court Dental Hanover summercourtdental.com
Jason E. Sudati Amoskeag Family Dentistry Manchester amoskeagfamilydentistry.com
Nathan A. Swanson
Newmarket Dental Newmarket newmarketdental.net
Jonathan H. Terhune Franklin (603) 934-5503
Jyoti Thapa Central Family Dental Dover centralfamilydentalnh.com
Curtis Thibeault Alton Bay Dental Alton altonbaydental.com
Denise Tong Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Vincent Trinidad Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Stephen C. Ura Center for Dental Excellence Nashua nashuadental.com
Jeffrey R. Vachon
Vachon Dental Manchester vachondental.com
Sreemali Vasantha
Souhegan Valley Dental Milford kenisondds.com
Brittney Ward
Core Pediatric Dentistry Exeter corephysicians.org
Emery Ward
Dover Dental Associates Dover doverdental.net
Jonas Westbrook
Applewood Family Dentistry Barrington applewoodfamilydentistry.com
Phebe C. Westbrook Applewood Family Dentistry Barrington applewoodfamilydentistry.com
Kevin Drew Wilson Family Dental Care of Milford Milford fdcmilford.com
Erik H. Young
Derry Dental Associates Derry derrynhdental.com
David W. Yue
Brar Family Dentistry Nashua brardentalnh.com
Silvia Yue
Brar Family Dentistry Nashua brardentalnh.com
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Mark D. Abel
Manchester Oral Surgery Manchester manchesteroralsurgery.com
Jonathan D. Bean NHOMS Pembroke drmoavenian.com
D. Cameron Braasch Braasch Oral Surgery Bedford braaschoms.com
Thomas F. Burk
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Implantology Nashua apexomfs.com
Louis F. Clarizio
Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center Portsmouth drclarizio.com
TOP VOTE-GETTER: PEDIATRICS
Nina B. Casaverde
Lindner Dental Associates
Amy D. Field
Lowell, Nashua & Chelmsford Oral Surgery Associates Nashua nashuaoralsurgery.com
Charles H. Henry Keene drhenrydds.com
Christopher A. King Dover doveroms.com
Jason Lee Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Rachel Madden
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Implantology Nashua apexomfs.com
Salman Malik
Granite State Oral Surgery
Londonderry granitestateoralsurgery.com
Nader Moavenian NHOMS Nashua drmoavenian.com
Dave C. Pak
Jared Curtin Salem curtinosa.com
Corey F. Decoteau
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Implantology Nashua apexomfs.com
Daniel H. DeTolla
Seacoast Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Center Portsmouth seacoastoralsurgery.com
Sotirios Diamantis Lowell, Nashua & Chelmsford Oral Surgery Associates Nashua lowelloralsurgery.com
Mina Fahmy NHOMS Pembroke drmoavenian.com
Benjamin Farr
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Implantology Nashua apexomfs.com
Suren Chelian
Chelian Orthodontics Nashua drchelian.com
Jay M. Decoteau
Decoteau Orthodontics
Nashua decoteauorthodontics.com
Douglas J. Elliott
Elliott Orthodontics Merrimack
elliottorthodontics.com
Timothy Finelli
Seacoast Orthodontics North Hampton seacoastorthodontics.com
Paras Gosalia
Monadnock Orthodontics Peterborough monadnockorthodontics.com
Dennis C. Hiller Hiller Orthodontics Littleton hillerortho.com
Paul D. Johnson III Mehan & Johnson Orthodontics Manchester NHorthodontics.com
Alan F. Kennell
Seacoast Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Center Rochester seacoastoralsurgeryrochester.com
Richard J. Rosato
Capitol Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Concord ccoralsurgery.com
Kyle Stiefel
Plaistow Oral Surgery Dental Implant Center Plaistow plaistoworalsurgery.com
Jeffrey D. Stone
Lowell, Nashua & Chelmsford Oral Surgery Associates Nashua nashuaoralsurgery.com
A. Jose Torio
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Implantology Nashua apexomfs.com
Thomas A. Trowbridge Lowell, Nashua & Chelmsford Oral Surgery Associates Nashua nashuaoralsurgery.com
Patrick B. Vaughan
Concord Oral Surgery Concord concordoralsurgery.com
Gopi K. Voonna
Elliot Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Center Manchester elliothospital.org
Orthodontics
John E. Beinoras Gilford nhorthodontist.com
Stephanie Phillis Nashua smilemkr.com
Tracy Pogal-Sussman Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Rachel J. Polgrean Apple Tree Orthodontics Londonderry appletreeortho.com
Lioubov G. Richter Luba Richter Orthodontics Concord drlubaortho.com
Danielle C. Ross Windham Orthodontics Windham windhamorthodontics.com
E. Diane Shieh Amherst Orthodontics Amherst amherstorthodontics.com
Jennifer R. Siller Seacoast Orthodontics North Hampton seacoastorthodontics.com
Kennell Orthodontics Laconia kennellortho.com
Jason S. Lenk Lenk Orthodontics
Durham lenkortho.com
Jia Liu
Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Danielle London London Family Orthodontics Bedford londonfamilyorthodontics.com
Philip M. Mansour Goffstown Area Orthodontics and Weare Orthodontics Goffstown nhbraces.com
Lance R. Miller
Miller Orthodontic Specialists Keene millerorthodonticspecialists.com
Sogole S. Moin
Moin Orthodontics Manchester drmoin.com
Thomas Montemurno
Family Orthodontics Manchester drtomorthodontics.com
Donald J. Neely Hanover Orthodontics Hanover drneely.com
Hugh R. Phillis Nashua smilemkr.com
Andrew T. Cheifetz
Children’s Dental Center of New Hampshire Amherst childrensdentalnh.com
Elliot C. Chiu Concord Pediatric Dentistry Concord concordpediatricdentistry.com
Jennifer Creem Core Pediatric Dentistry Exeter corephysicians.org
Lindsay Decker Core Physicians Exeter corephysicians.org
James F. Dickerson Pediatric Dentistry of Salem Salem pediatricdentistryofsalem.com
Luis S. Englander Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Michael E. Vermette Vermette Orthodontics Concord vermetteortho.com
John Walsh Gentle Dental Concord Concord gentledental.com/ meet-our-dentists/dr-john-walsh
Brad C. Watterworth Watterworth Orthodontics Portsmouth seacoastortho.com
Douglass C. Wilson Wilson Orthodontics Keene drwilsonorthodontics.com
Pediatric Dentistry
Roger A. Achong Concord Pediatric Dentistry Concord concordpediatricdentistry.com
Joseph H. Becht Nashua Dentistry and Orthodontics for Children Nashua nashuadocs.com
Adam Bottrill Greenland seacoastchildrensdentistry.com
Michael Capozzi Concord Pediatric Dentistry Concord concordpediatricdentistry.com
Patrick F. Capozzi Concord Pediatric Dentistry Concord concordpediatricdentistry.com
Nina B. Casaverde Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Ashley A. Frankinburger Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
James B. Haas Haas Dental Associates Derry haasdentalnh.com
Mindy Hall Lakeside Smiles Pediatric Dentistry Alton lakesidesmilespd.com
Danielle C. Hinton Concord Pediatric Dentistry Concord concordpediatricdentistry.com
Nancy E. Jun Monadnock Pediatric Dentistry Jaffrey monadnockpediatricdentistry.com
Viena G. Posada Puredontics Portsmouth puredontics.com
Matthew B. Smith Children’s Dentistry Gilford childrensdentistnh.com
Tim Smith Children’s Dentistry Gilford childrensdentistnh.com
Jon J. Wendell Portsmouth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Portsmouth seacoastsmiles.com
Patrick T. Wilson Great Oudoors Pediatric Dentistry Somersworth gopediatricdentistry.com
Adam J. Wolff Pediatric Dentistry of Salem Salem pediatricdentistryofsalem.com
TOP VOTE-GETTER: PERIODONTICS
Michael D. Neal Bedford Commons Periodontics
TOP VOTE-GETTER: ORAL SURGERY
D. Cameron Braasch Braasch Oral Surgery
Asia Yip Lindner Dental Associates Bedford lindnerdental.com
Periodontics
Irina Adler
Manchester Dental Surgery & Implant Center Manchester nhdentalsurgery.com
Charles R. Braga Lamprey Family Dental Raymond lampreydental.com
Roland R. Bryan Manchester rolandbryandmd.com
Charles J. Burliss Salem perionh.com
Francesca Failla Nashua Riverfront Dentistry Nashua nashuariverfrontdentistry.com
Jonell Hopeck Generations Dental Care Concord generationsdental.com
Sharon E. Johnson Belmont sejohnsonperio.com
Tae Kwon Monadnock Perio & Implant Center Keene monadnockperio.com
Michael D. Neal
Bedford Commons Periodontics Bedford bedfordcommonsperiodontics.com
Nomith T. Ramdev Dover drramdev.com
Amy Rosania Seacoast Periodontics & Dental Implants Portsmouth rosaniadmd.com
David Rosania Seacoast Periodontics & Dental Implants Portsmouth rosaniadmd.com
James D. Spivey
Portsmouth Periodontics & Portsmouth Dental Implant Care Portsmouth drspivey.com
Austin H. Wang Cornerstone Periodontics & Implants Concord cornerstoneperio.com
Kate D. Wilson
Coastal Periodontics Portsmouth coastalperiosurgery.com
Prosthodontics
Rosella Butura Bedford preferredfamilydental.com
Catherine Cagino Merrimack Smiles Merrimack merrimacksmiles.com
Paul J. Connolly Bedford Center for Prosthodontics Bedford smiledesignnh.com
Michael R. Hamel Manchester (603) 668-3202
Deborah M. Munoz Bedford Center for Prosthodontics Bedford smiledesignnh.com
SELECTION PROCESS (METHODOLOGY)
Jason J. Peacock Riverview Dental Associates Concord smilesnh.com
Lisa B. Schulman Seacoast Dream Dentistry Portsmouth seacoastdreamdentistry.com
“If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”
This is the question we’ve asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the Top Dentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and, of course, physical results.
The nomination pool of dentists consists of dentists listed online with various professional boards and societies; thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peers’ work when evaluating the other nominees.
Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area.
R OGER A CHONG , DMD, MS
P ATRICK C APOZZI , DDS
D ANIELLE H INTON , DMD
E LLIOT C HIU , DMD
M ICHAEL C APOZZI , DDS
Fellows, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Diplomates, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Borderline cases are given a careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received and status in various dental academies can factor into our decision.
Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then, letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.
Of course, there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases, and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate and useful list of dentists available anywhere. NH
DENTAL PROFILES 2024
T he dentists featured in this section are among the most highly skilled and respected professionals in New Hampshire.
If you’re searching for a new dentist, look no further!
AESTHETIC DENTAL CENTER –DR. ROBERT MARSHALL
Innovative dentistry changing lives
A warm, healthy smile can be lifechanging. It can bring a new sense of confidence and sincerity, improve your self image, bring people together and create a lasting impression.
The fact that Dr. Robert Marshall can deliver such beneficial, transformative dentistry with an exceptional level of comfort is what makes Aesthetic Dental Center in Concord a perennial favorite in the Granite State.
“We give outstanding patient care and make each patient an ambassador for continued growth and success in their own dental health. That’s why my patients actually enjoy coming here — we simply use modern dentistry to open a new window to their world,” Dr. Marshall says.
Our hygiene department is available to take care of preventative and periodontal maintenance visits. And as a leader in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, Dr. Marshall fully understands the importance of aesthetic dentistry. So much so, he made it part of the practice’s name. “I change smiles to change people’s lives,” says Dr. Marshall. “Each procedure culminates in form, function and beauty. Clients work with me to develop the smile of their dreams.”
To create that dream smile, Aesthetic Dental Center is a fullservice dental office, providing a wide range of care. They offer a wide range of services from basic cleanings, whitening, tooth colored fillings, full mouth reconstruction with veneers and crowns, to partial and full arch dentures. For every challenge, Dr. Marshall has an elegant, aesthetic solution:
• Using veneers for chipped, cracked or worn teeth.
• Implants to replace missing teeth.
• Invisalign to straighten teeth without the hassle of traditional braces.
A former clinical instructor at The
Pacific Aesthetic Continuum, Dr. Marshall has taught others the art of smile enhancement.
“Every dental procedure should radiate confidence to our patients,” says Dr. Marshall. “An investment in yourself pays dividends for a lifetime.”
Aesthetic Dental Center is thrilled to announce that Dr. Robert Thomas Marshall joined the practice in September 2023. As the youngest son of Dr. Marshall, he has worked previously as an assistant and at the front desk and is now excited after graduating
from Tufts Dental School to work chair side delivering personalized dental solutions. With his father and mentor by his side, Dr. Marshall makes dream smiles a reality through utilizing the latest in dental technologies. As is the case with most works of art — a strong foundation is necessary to achieving a smile Dr. Marshall and his patients are proud to show off.
177 Pleasant St., Concord (603) 224-1743
aestheticdentalcenter.com
Dr. Robert Thomas Marshall
Crafting a Healthy Smile
Hampton dental practice focuses on cosmetic and functional dental services
Q&A with Dr. Sayed Mousawi, DMD, CAGS, and Dr. Elmehdi Boujida, DDM, of Hampton Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry
Q: How does cosmetic dentistry differ from general dentistry?
A : General dentistry is the primary dental care that focuses on maintaining and treating overall oral health. This includes routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, diagnosing and treating cavities, and gum disease. These are essential procedures, whereas cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the smile. We use a variety of procedures to address concerns like teeth discoloration, chips, gaps, misalignment and uneven gum lines. Our goal is to enhance the aesthetics of your smile and in many cases, age reversal.
Q:
What factors should a patient consider when deciding between different cosmetic dental procedures?
A : To decide on which cosmetic procedure(s) to perform, the clinician, first and foremost, has to hear the patient’s chief concern. Cosmetics can be subjective. What I consider aesthetic might not be what the patient is looking for. What makes an aesthetic smile is specific to each patient. However, generally there are four cornerstones of an aesthetic smile:
1. Teeth color
2. Teeth size (height and width)
3. Gum architecture
4. Facial aesthetics/midlines
To achieve an “aesthetic smile” or a “cosmetic smile,” all four have to be considered and modified to reach the patient’s aesthetic goal.
Q:
What is a misconception people have about cosmetic dentistry, and what is the reality?
A : There are generally two major misconceptions when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. The first one is pain, and the second is price. The reality is an aesthetic smile can be achieved without the use of anesthesia. A whitening can give a brighter smile without any pain. We offer no-prep veneers for some cases that don’t require any injections. Invisalign
treatment can deliver high aesthetics without any injections or post-operative pain. Superficial enameloplasty and bondings can also be done without any local anesthesia. Internal bleaching of root canal-treated teeth is also done without any local anesthesia. In many cases, our patients can leave our practice with a significant improvement after getting one or multiple procedures done without any pain.
When it comes to price, I understand some cases can be pricey and could easily cost north of $10,000 to $15,000 or so depending on the procedures
performed. However, there are simple procedures that can give large improvements and cost a few hundred dollars.
For example, a simple in-office whitening can improve a smile drastically; it’s pain-free and it’s generally affordable. A lot of insurance companies cover anterior bondings and enameloplasty, making them affordable while offering a significant smile improvement.
An aesthetically pleasing smile can be truly transformative, impacting confidence and overall well-being. First impressions are lasting, and a healthy, attractive smile can make a positive difference in both personal and professional interactions.
Q:
A:
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime; their durability depends on factors such as oral health, lifestyle habits and implant quality. When it comes to tooth restoration, dental im-
plants stand out for their durability and functional resemblance to natural teeth.
Material quality: Dental implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that integrates with the jawbone seamlessly.
Oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing and dental checkups are crucial. Maintaining a clean mouth helps in preserving the integrity of the implant.
Lifestyle choices: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can compromise the health of the gums and bone, affecting the implant’s stability.
Regular checkups: Periodic visits to your dentist help ensure that your implant is in optimal condition.
Dental implants have revolutionized the way we replace missing teeth, and with meticulous care, they can last for 25 years or even a lifetime.
HAMPTON COSMETIC AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY
The team of Hampton Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry works to ensure that all patients feel assured and at ease during their appointment and leave feeling like they received quality professional services.
Each with 12 years of experience, Dr. Sayed Mousawi and Dr. Elmehdi Boujida, graduates of Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, commit to staying on top of the latest advancements in dental technology and upgrades to cutting-edge equipment. Additionally, Dr. Mousawi completed a post-graduate residency focused on cosmetic dentistry.
“Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the smile,” Dr. Boujida says. “We use a variety of procedures to address concerns.”
Hampton Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry focuses on aesthetic specialties with a goal of helping patients achieve natural-looking smile enhancements with minimally invasive treatments.
Services include, but are not limited to, veneers, root canals, crowns, Invisalign, teeth whitening, restorative treatments, wisdom teeth extraction, oral surgery, complete or partial dentures, laser surgery and implant dentistry.
“Since graduation, I’ve taken many courses and mainly focused on implant and cosmetic dentistry,” Dr. Mousawi says. “I’ve worked on many full arch reconstruction cases, All-on-X (dental implant) cases, or prep or no-prep veneers.”
You’ll know as soon as you walk into the modern, state-of-the-art facility that you’re in good hands.
“The field is constantly evolving with new technologies and digital tools that help create faster, more precise and comfortable treatments,” Dr. Mousawi explains. “Some innovations include 3D printing, intra-oral scanners and design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Trends such as no-prep
veneers offer a conservative, painless approach to enhance dental aesthetics without extensive tooth preparation.”
The practice believes that smile transformation goes beyond aesthetics or enhanced dental function; it unlocks a ripple effect on one’s overall well-being. This surge in confidence serves as a springboard for personal and social growth.
With encouragement and guidance from dental experts, patients of
Hampton Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry have been able to meet other health goals, like weight management and smoking cessation, that were negatively impacting their teeth.
Dr. Mousawi and Dr. Boujida are supported by an experienced team of dental assistants and hygienists, as well as office staff.
“We have an amazing team in our practice,” Dr. Mousawi says. “You will not find a better team at any dental
practice that’s better than ours, that’s for sure. We are all really good at what we do: from the front desk’s ability to navigate dental insurances, claims and estimates to the clinical supporting staff that’s more than capable with years of experience.”
Many patients who have said they suffer from dental anxiety share that the staff here has helped minimize that stress to make them feel relaxed and comfortable during their appointments.
“We are high energy and patientfocused,” Dr. Mousawi says of their practice. “We don’t upsell any service to our patients. We focus on the patient’s needs and we deliver at the highest level every single time.”
In addition to the New Hampshire location in Hampton, the dentists also operate two Massachusetts practices in Salisbury and Boston.
GLEN LAKE DENTAL
At Glen Lake Dental, Dr. Danielle Leonardi and our team of experienced professionals take pride in caring for our patients. Many of our patients have been with us for years, and we think that says a lot about the kind of patient care and dentistry we provide. Our primary goal is to collaborate with our patients in a manner that encourages each to become healthier. We believe this happens when we develop strong relationships with our patient community. Our practice is focused on comprehensive care delivered in a proactive manner. Dr. Leonardi trusts that providing patients with valuable information and creating a forum in which patients can ask clarifying questions always results in a positive outcome. She also provides general and cosmetic dentistry, implant related dentistry, Invisalign along with Power-Prox Six Month Braces, Laser Therapies and Botox for both esthetics and the treatment of TMD. She is currently a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Facial Esthetics and an active participant in the Frank Spears Program and the American Society of Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry.
ROTHWANGL DENTAL CARE, PLLC
Dr. Rothwangl and team would like to thank her colleagues for voting her one of the top dentists in New Hampshire. We would also like to thank all of our amazing patients for choosing us! It is our privilege to serve our community. We are committed to providing you the highest standard of care in a warm, family-focused environment, where education and prevention are emphasized. Compassion, trust and clinical excellence are our guiding principles. We believe in continuous learning and incorporate advanced technologies to give everyone the most comprehensive care possible. At Rothwangl Dental Care we continue to reach out to our community and foster change in an environment that is professional, inclusive, and caring. We truly value the relationships that we have with our patients and look forward to welcoming you to our dental family.
174 State Route 101, #1, Bedford (603) 472-5733 • rothwangldentalcare.com
CORNERSTONE PERIODONTICS AND IMPLANTS, PLLC – AUSTIN H. WANG D.D.S
Cornerstone Periodontics and Implants has been providing NH, MA, VT and ME the highest quality periodontal care for over 20 years. Dr. Austin Wang is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. A Diplomate is a board certified periodontist who has made substantial accomplishments beyond the mandatory educational requirements of the specialty. He specializes in the treatment of periodontal disease (deep pockets), gum recession, extractions and single implant therapy to full mouth implant rehabilitations. He has solutions for ill-fitting dentures with the use of implants and permanent solutions with hybrid restorations. Dr. Wang and his team are proud of their most up-to-date technology, including laser therapy (LANAP®), 3-D imaging and our newest addition, YOMI®. YOMI® is a robotic assistance system that allows Dr. Wang to preform dental implant surgery with accuracy and precision for even the most complex cases. It allows for pre-planning an implant surgery using some of the most advanced software. These surgeries are shorter and less invasive allowing for faster recovery. The dental hygiene team are all highly educated in advanced periodontal therapies. They perform routine periodontal cleanings as well as scaling and root planings (deep cleanings done with local anesthetic). Their goal is to make you as comfortable as possible and provide care that will result in your continued success in oral health. Call for a consultation at one of the most technologically advanced periodontal offices in the region. Cornerstone Periodontics and Implants can give you the healthy foundation you need to get your smile back.
153 Manchester St., Concord (603) 224-9474
cornerstoneperio.com
ELITE ENDODONTICS OF NH DR. TADROS M. TADROS
The dedicated team at Elite Endodontics of NH are committed to providing a welcoming environment to our patients and dental community. Our esteemed team of endodontists —Dr. Tadros M. Tadros, Dr. Anika Solanki, Dr. Joseph A. Everett and Dr. Devon M. Ptak — serve Hudson, Hooksett, Moultonborough and surrounding neighborhoods. Their aim every day is to deliver scientifically driven care to save natural teeth, minimize pain and improve a patient’s quality of life. Using state-of-
the-art technology and imaging, our doctors are able to provide high-quality, efficient and comfortable treatment. With honest communication and consideration, we strive to ensure every patient is as informed and comfortable as possible when making decisions regarding their care. We are eager to work with a patient’s primary dentist to coordinate treatment plans to attain a common goal. We are happy to see lastminute emergencies, and believe in the importance of accommodating a patient into our schedule as soon as possible.
The doctors at Elite Endodontics are able to offer various anti-anxiety modalities to our patients such as nitrous oxide, oral sedation or treatment under general anesthesia with our dental anesthesiologist, Dr. Lily Hu. Together, our team will work with you to accomplish comprehensive and compassionate care. We encourage you to visit our website or reach out to our wonderful staff for further information and assistance. It is our honor to make your dental health our priority.
182 Central St., Hudson • 1310 Hooksett Road, Hooksett • 60 Whittier Hwy, Unit 1, Moultonborough (603) 882-5455 • Eliteendodonticsnh.com
BAY STREET FAMILY DENTAL
Because of your support, we are again honored to have been recognized by our community and colleagues as one of New Hampshire’s Top Dentists. Dr. Ernie Domingo and his Bay Street Family Dental team have been providing great dental care for the community (from youth to adults) for the past 22 years. “Our vision is to continuously provide outstanding, patient-centered dental care in a comfortable and caring environment,” Dr. Domingo says. “You know you’re in the right place when you
come to our inviting, homey atmosphere. Our team demonstrates their personalized care to make you feel welcome.” We are delighted about our loyal, long-term patients and we always welcome new patients from the community. It’s time, right? Call Dr. Domingo and our Bay Street Family Dental team today at (603) 624-1342.
33 Bay St., Manchester (603) 624-1342 baystreetfamilydental.com
NH ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
A s the leading experts in dental implants and wisdom teeth in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, doctors Moavenian, Keyser, Reich, Schonfield, Fahmy, Bean, Dyrkacz, Courtney, Ahson and Kim are committed to providing safe and compassionate care to our patients. Our early adoption of 3D digital imaging and computer
aided planning software allows us to reduce the number of appointments and treatment time needed for dental implants. We can often place dental implants at the time a non-savable tooth is removed. We pride ourselves on availability, and a re always happy to accept new patients. Oral surgery problems are often urgent, and we
go the extra mile to accommodate emergencies. We are also certified to provide your choice of local or general anesthesia. The doctors of NHOMS are Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and on staff at hospitals in Nashua, Manchester, Exeter and Beverly, Massachusetts.
Offices in Nashua, Manchester, Concord, Dover, Exeter, Salem, North Conway, and Portsmouth (603) 255-5788 • NewSmileNewEngland.com
FAMILY DENTAL CARE OF MILFORD, P.A.
At Family Dental Care of Milford, you will find a friendly atmosphere, comfortable accommodations and exceptional dental services. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive dental care to enhance the quality of your life. Family Dental Care of
Milford offers a variety of cosmetic, restorative and preventive dental services designed to improve your smile and overall health. Our goal is to enhance your physical comfort, outer appearance and your inner confidence. Our pledge is to provide excellence and
establish rewarding, lasting relationships with patients, encouraging beautiful smiles and promoting exceptional oral health for a lifetime! For more information about our practice, please visit our website.
154 Elm St., Milford • (603) 556-4399 • fdcmilford.com
VACHON DENTAL: FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Drs. Jeffrey Vachon and Amy Rust are excited to welcome the newest dental professional to the Vachon Dental team. Prosthodontist, Dr. Thomas Suranyi, brings extensive experience, allowing us to provide an even broader array of treatment options under one roof. It is also worth mentioning that Dr. Rust has obtained her Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, confirming her passion for knowledge. We provide patients with all the information they will need to assist in making the best decisions for their oral
health. We are all trained in the latest techniques and believe continuing education and service to the community is of utmost importance. Our growing practice utilizes up-to-date technology, equipment and treatment. To learn more about Vachon Dental and how we can best serve you, please call or visit our website.
57 Webster St., Manchester (603) 627-2092
vachondental.com
Dr. K. Drew Wilson, Dr. Amanda Smith, Dr. Joshua T. Osofsky
THE PERIODONTAL OFFICE OF DR. ROLAND R. BRYAN
We don’t just treat teeth. We treat the whole person.
Dr. Bryan is a graduate of Tufts Dental School and completed his periodontal training at Boston University Hospital. He has been in private practice since 1993 and specializes in periodontics and dental implants. Following a complete periodontal evaluation, Dr. Bryan will assist you in developing a comprehensive periodontal treatment plan. Some of your treatment plan options may include dental implants, scaling and root planing, gingival grafting for recession, pocket elimination procedures and aesthetic laser contouring.
When arriving at Dr. Bryan’s office, you will find a confident, professional and comforting atmosphere. You will quickly see that you are surrounded by the latest in dental technology including digital radiography and dental laser therapy. Whether you are considering localized or comprehensive periodontal therapy, Dr. Bryan’s team always makes your care their top priority.
ALLIANCE FOR DENTAL CARE
Thank you to our peers who voted for us as Top Dentists for the 13th consecutive year! That says a lot about our team of caring professionals, and we welcome the opportunity to show you why we continue to earn our colleagues’ confidence.
If you’re looking for a dentist for yourself or your family, or just a new dental atmosphere, then come check us out! We provide comprehensive care to all ages, which makes it convenient for everyone in the family to go to one office. Our practice facility is located in the heart of Rochester with ample parking.
We are currently accepting new patients of all ages and all insurance plans. Are you putting off your own dental treatment due to finances or need payment options? We can help! Ask us about interest-free monthly payments. Call us today with questions or to schedule an appointment, or browse our website to use our easy online appointment scheduler at your convenience.
AMBRA DENTAL CARE
WE TREAT YOU LIKE FAMILY.
At Ambra Dental Care, we pride ourselves on treating each patient as we would our own family. Our team of caring professionals is committed to serving our patients with compassion while focusing on each individual’s specific needs.
Dr. Michael Ambra is honored to be voted a Top Dentist in New Hampshire for the ninth consecutive year. We invite you to call and explore our website to learn more about our office, our exceptional team and our care. We offer a wide range of services, and new patients are always welcome. The team at Ambra Dental Care is looking forward to helping you achieve your oral health goals!
FROMUTH AND LANGLOIS DENTAL
Expect Excellence ... you deserve it!
Dr. Fromuth strives to make each valued patient enjoy a healthy, confident and lasting smile. He makes it a point to listen first, getting to know your unique needs and goals before providing personalized care in a friendly, nonjudgmental way. He is extremely committed to continuing education, regularly pursuing advanced training so his clinical skills are second to none. Combining this with the latest in dental technology, Dr. Fromuth is truly dedicated to providing the best care possible to his family of patients. The team at Fromuth and Langlois Dental hope to welcome you in soon!
765 S Main St. #102, Manchester (603) 644-3368 manchesterbedforddentist.com
MICHAEL D. NEAL, D.M.D.
Bedford Commons Periodontics specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of periodontal disease, which includes bone regeneration, dental implants and aesthetic tissue grafts. It has been estimated that three out of four Americans suffer from some form of periodontal disease. Treating periodontal disease can not only lead to
oral health, but overall systemic health. Recently, periodontal disease has been linked to other chronic diseases such as heart disease, respiratory illnesses, diabetes, pre-term and low birth weight babies, arthritis and certain cancers.
Dr. Charles D. Neal, a 2012 and 2013 Top Periodontist, started the practice in 1974. His son, Dr. Michael D. Neal,
joined the practice in 1999 and achieved board certification in 2004. Michael Neal has also been named a Top New Hampshire Periodontist by his peers every year since 2006, and was the top vote-getter in 2008, 2009, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 for his specialty.
303 Riverway Place, Bedford • (603) 623-6639 • bedfordcommonsperiodontics.com
CENTER FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE
Drs. Ura and Janiga have a passion for excellence, which they have made the focal point at the Center for Dental Excellence. They are committed to taking the time to listen and understand patients’ needs and concerns in order to provide them the best solutions to achieve their dental goals.
Both Drs. Ura and Janiga believe it is
essential to have the insatiable desire to continually advance one’s skills. They both regularly pursue advanced training in restorative dental care, including dental implants and cosmetic care. Dr. Ura is a Diplomate with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, and provides alternatives to CPAP treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. Dr.
Janiga has expanded surgical, endodontic and orthodontic services at the Center For Dental Excellence. Both are members of the American Dental Association, New Hampshire Dental Society and the Academy of General Dentistry. At the Center For Dental Excellence, clients can be assured the entire team’s focus is excellence in dental care and service.
74 Northeastern Blvd., Suite 19, Nashua • (603) 886-5500 • nashuadental.com
CHILDREN’S DENTAL CENTER OF NH AND ORTHODONTICS TOO
We know your child’s smile is important, and you want only the best for your family. Children’s Dental Center of NH and Orthodontics Too is proud to have top dentists. We lead the way with stateof-the-art laser technology for virtually painless procedures including fillings, lip-ties, and tongue-ties. Our Solea laser: no drill, no needle, no numbing, no pain. Solea is our way to keep your kids happy; we love to see them smile. Call us to learn more about our laser and how it can help your child. From infants to college students, your children will have the best care in a friendly, nurturing environment. We ensure your child, and you, feel comfortable. With the addition of our orthodontist, we offer even more convenience for your family — both you and your kids can have braces or Invisalign®. If only the best will do — Children’s Dental Center of NH and Orthodontics Too.
BRYAN HOERTDOERFER, DDS
Well known for his friendly and compassionate manner, Dr. Bryan Hoertdoerfer (Dr. H) and the Hoertdoerfer Dentistry team proudly provide dental care using the latest dental technologies in a safe, friendly and anxiety-free environment. Dr. H’s dedication to researching and integrating state-of-the-art dental technology ensures exceptional dental hygiene care and provides easier and more comfortable cosmetic and restorative procedures for his patients. Hoertdoerfer Dentistry offers same-day CEREC porcelain crowns, high-resolution/low-radiation CBCT 3D digital scans, veneers, implant restorations, dentures, partials, bridges, sealants, and Philips ZOOM in-office teeth whitening. Office safety measures include a HEPA filtration system, air purification units, and self-contained
water filtration systems in each operatory. Dr. H is grateful for the opportunity to combine his dental practice with his personal passion for giving back to the community through his philanthropic work with the NHL, NHL Alumni and the Boston Bruins. For many years, Dr. H hosted the
annual Big Z Challenge featuring Zdeno Chara, and has consistently supported causes for cancer and the latest needs of Elliot Health System. Visit bruinsdentist.com for more information and to become a member of the Hoertdoerfer Dentistry dental family.
4 Elliot Way, Suite 306, Manchester • (603) 669-1251 • bruinsdentist.com • bigzchallenge.com
NORTH END DENTAL CARE
At North End Dental Care, we combine small-town hospitality with leadingedge technology to bring you the latest and best that dentistry has to offer. Dr. Christopher Moriarty and our dental care team understand that trips to the dentist can be stressful for many of our patients. Our goal is to do whatever it takes to improve your comfort to the point that maintaining a healthy smile becomes something you want to do, not something you have to do. Our entire team is proud of the warm and inviting experience that our patients enjoy in our office. State-of-the-art digital diagnostics and treatment planning ensure an optimal outcome for your preventive, general, cosmetic, and specialized dentistry with us. We make your comfort a priority by providing the high standard of compassionate treatment we would expect for our own families.
PERRY FAMILY DENTAL CARE
You Deserve A “Top Team”
Dr. Perry is honored to once again be recognized by his peers and USA topDentists as a Top Dentist! He says the recognition is very special, but the award is possible because of a top team of dentists and staff — caring professionals who work hard every day to make your visits as comfortable as possible. The entire team at Perry Family Dental Care is dedicated to providing a sophisticated and pleasant environment that ensures even the most anxious member of your family will feel right at home.
391 West St., Keene • (603) 357-0677 | 18 Elm St., Antrim • (603) 588-6362 perryfamilydentalcare.com
GRANITE FAMILY DENTISTRY
At Granite Family Dentistry, patients are welcomed by a friendly team, comfortable atmosphere and state-of-the-art dentistry. They have always had stringent infection control standards, safety measures and HEPA filtration throughout the office to keep the staff and patients safe. Dr. Sylvia Christian and her team provide exceptional dental care that will improve your smile and overall health. Dr. Christian provides general and cosmetic dentistry, implants and implant dentures, along with Invisalign and Myobrace. Everyone in the practice takes the time to listen to patients, and together they explore treatment options tailored to the patient. Dr. Christian feels it is important to keep up with new techniques and materials to provide the latest treatment options for her patients. To achieve that goal, she dedicates hours to continuing education and study clubs. She is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, which enables
her to treat sleep apnea patients with oral appliances as an alternative to CPAP. This truly is a fantastic health-centered dental office for the whole family!
1558 Hooksett Road, Suite 4, Hooksett (603) 485-4855 granitefamilydentistry.com
BRAASCH ORAL SURGERY
Braasch OMS is your premier wisdom tooth and dental implant specialist. Dr. Braasch grew up in central Pennsylvania and went to on to attend Bucknell University. After graduation he obtained a master’s degree in biology at the College of William and Mary. Dr. Braasch earned his doctor of dental medicine degree from Boston University in 2009. His passion for education lead him to complete a four-year residency training program in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. Dr. Braasch is boardcertified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Braasch has been practicing oral surgery in southern New Hampshire since 2013. Braasch OMS opened in January 2024 in Bedford with a strong dedication to providing the highest quality oral surgery to their patients in a comfortable environment. Dr. Braasch works with an
amazing team that shares his passion for providing personalized, patient centered care! Dr. Braasch is a leading expert in wisdom tooth extraction, dental implant therapy including full mouth reconstruction, immediate implant placement and bone grafting procedures
as well as office-based anesthesia. Dr. Braasch’s newly renovated, state-of-theart office is located at:
404 Riverway Place, Building 4 Bedford • (603) 657-1984 braaschoms.com
EVELYN M. BRYAN D.M.D., P.C.
Dr. Evelyn Bryan is a graduate of Tufts Dental School and has been in practice in the Manchester area for more than 25 years. Dr. Bryan’s practice is dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care while focusing on each patient’s individual needs. Dr. Bryan and her dedicated and caring staff are committed to providing each patient with personalized, compassionate care focusing on complete health dentistry. The office offers a full range of state-of-the-art dentistry, including implant restorations, digital radiography, CEREC (same-day crowns), in-office Zoom bleaching, custom digital dentures and implant-retained dentures, TMJ/bruxism, snore and sleep apnea appliances. We welcome you to call or look at our website to learn more about our office and care. New patients are always welcome. We are committed to helping you achieve
the healthy and beautiful smile you deserve in a professional, personalized and caring atmosphere.
765 South Main St., Suite 202 Manchester • (603) 622-0279 drevelynbryan.com
LINDNER DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C.
At Lindner Dental Associates P.C., you are welcomed by an inviting staff, family-friendly atmosphere and a state-of-the-art facility. We have been providing high-quality dental care to patients of all ages since 1985. Our multi-specialty practice includes Board-Certified Pediatric Dentistry, Board-Certified Orthodontics, Adult and Cosmetic Dentistry, and Maxillofacial surgery, Therapeutic and Cosmetic Botox. Community is an essential part of our practice and we are so grateful to be recognized by our peers as Top Dentists again this year. We are thankful and truly honored to work in such a wonderful and supportive community.
MEHAN & JOHNSON ORTHODONTICS
Creating beautiful smiles with great patients. It’s what we do best.
A confident smile makes a world of difference in one’s life. At Mehan & Johnson Orthodontics, we are confident that we can create that beautiful smile for you to put your best foot forward.
Our office has served New Hampshire for over 32 years. We are blessed to have provided quality care for multiple generations of our patients. We use the latest technology in orthodontics to create great smiles in a gentle and timely fashion, but it is the way people’s lives are changed that sets our office apart.
Dr. Johnson and his staff will do their best to earn your confidence for the treatment you desire. Please visit our website at NHorthodontics.com and Facebook to get a feel for our office.
MANCHESTER DENTAL
We are very honored to be named again as one of the top dentists in the state of New Hampshire by our peers! Our brand-new facility, located in the heart of the North End of Manchester, offers the best dental treatment for all ages!
Our services include cleaning, fillings, crowns, root canals, extraction and implants. Our hygiene department is a particular strength, providing excellent cleaning, diagnostic X-ray, and promoting oral hygiene care to prevent dental diseases, including caries and periodontal diseases. Our practice also offers digital X-ray, which reduces unnecessary radiation significantly, and obtains the image instantly to a computer screen. Infection control and adhering to the latest CDC guidelines are top priorities in order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all patients and staff. Please call our office to make an appointment for you and your family.
36 Bay St., Manchester • (603) 624-4147
NICHOLAS C. RIZOS, DMD
Dr. Rizos prides himself in providing patients with information that will empower them to make the best decisions for their oral health. By selecting the best materials and laboratories to fabricate restorations, Dr. Rizos ensures longevity and great esthetic results. Here is what our patients say about us:
“Dr. Rizos took a complicated mess and turned it into a complete and total make over.” — Patient from Deerfield, NH
“Dr. Rizos is one of the most caring, skilled dentists to whom I have ever been in 35 years. I am amazed at his expertise...”
— Patient from Hooksett, NH
“Dr. Rizos and his amazing team are beyond impressive! … They always make you feel like you are their only patient
and treat you like family. They listen very carefully to your concerns and map out a detailed plan to address them. I am so lucky to have found them and will never think of leaving them.”
— Patient from Manchester, NH
Muhenad Samaan, DMD and his family
CONCORD ORAL SURGERY
Dr. Vaughan and the Concord Oral Surgery team are grateful for the opportunity to care for patients referred to us by our colleagues in Concord and the surrounding communities. In August 2023, we welcomed our new associate, Dr. Christy Lottinger, from the UCONN School of Dental Medicine. At UCONN, she provided comprehensive care in the Oral & Maxillofacial Department and served as assistant program director of the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program. We are fortunate to have her and know our patients will appreciate her attention to detail and exemplary skills. Each day, we strive to exceed patient expectations through compassionate care and detailed communication. We value a team approach and aim to build the best partnerships with the offices we collaborate with, our patients, and each other.
194 Pleasant St. Suite 13, Concord (603) 225-3482 • concordoralsurgery.com
DR. NICK I. FLEURY OF CIRCLE DENTAL
It is a great honor to be nominated again by our peers as a Top Dentist, as published by New Hampshire Magazine, for the ninth year in a row. At Circle Dental, we strive to offer advanced treatments including dental implants, same-day crowns, Invisalign and Zoom Whitening, as well as cosmetic services. Dr. Fleury and his team at Circle Dental pride themselves in staying up to date with the latest dentistry has to offer, as reflected by our welcoming and warm state-of-the-art office. We are proud to serve our community with the highest standard of care!
173 NH Route 104, Suite A, Meredith (603) 515-4060 circledentalnh.com
GREAT OUTDOORS
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
At Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry, we speak kid. Upon arrival, they realize they are at a special dentist with kids’ movies, fun toothbrushes, and a prize at the end making every visit easy. Your kids will be asking when they can come back! Dr. Wilson, with over twenty years of experience as a board-certified pediatric
dentist, ensures your child’s comfort from routine check-ups to in-office sedation and everything in between. We provide an exceptional dental experience in a warm, comfortable setting, encouraging families to enjoy the great outdoors and maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime.
1 John Parsons Drive, Somersworth 603-343-1228 gopediatricdentistry.com
AMHERST ORTHODONTICS
Dr. Diane Shieh of Amherst Orthodontics is honored to be recognized as a Top Orthodontist in NH. With nearly 25 years of orthodontic experience, you can be assured of Dr. Diane’s commitment to delivering honest opinions with health and prevention in mind.
• Complimentary new patient exam
• Or thodontics for children, teens a nd adults
• Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provider
• Flexible financing
• Itero digital scanner (goop free!)
For free virtual consultations — scan the QR code.
“Dr. Diane and her staff are AWESOME! Great group and I highly recommend them if you need braces or Invisalign. The end results are worth the time and investment. Thanks to all!” –Karen G.
PISCATAQUA DENTAL
In our office, Patients Come First! Since 1974, Piscataqua Dental Dentists have been providing a different kind of dental care to patients and their families for the New Hampshire Seacoast community. Drs. Nellita Manley, Nadine Bedair, Brittany Tosto and Kelsey Rose believe in creating a fun, positive dental experience while providing treatments that are personal, comfortable and tailored specifically to meet your needs. We want you to feel welcome, comfortable
and informed. Our exceptional team is professional, highly skilled and compassionate which makes them perfect for treating patients of all ages. Our dentists and staff offer a wide variety of advanced dental treatments designed to promote oral health and provide effective, minimally invasive dental care. We look forward to making your dental experience a positive one and providing you with the outstanding results your family deserves!
288 Lafayette Road Bldg-A, Portsmouth • (603) 431-4559 • piscataquadental.com
5 Overlook Dr. #6, Amherst (603) 672-0844 amherstorthodontics.com
HARRISON DENTAL ARTS
Dr. Jill Harrison, a NH native and graduate of Brown University and the University of Pennsylvania, established Harrison Dental Arts in 2019 with the goal of providing comprehensive dental care to patients in the Seacoast area. Dr. Harrison and her team focus on providing a unique experience to patients so all aspects of their dental health, from function to esthetics, can be addressed, and patients can be involved in their care. Dr. Harrison, whose passion is cosmetic and restorative dentistry, has been voted one of NH’s Top Dentists for six of the last seven years. She and her team utilize the newest technology including intraoral scanners, digital photography and digital x-rays to treat patients in their bright, comfortable office located in Portsmouth, right off Interstate 95 at Exit 3, in Orchard Park.
Serving the Portsmouth area, including Greenland, Rye, Newington, North Hampton, Hampton, Kittery and Eliot 875 Greenland Rd., Suite B7, Portsmouth • (603) 501-0263 • harrisondentalarts.com
JAMES ROCHEFORT D.M.D. FAMILY DENTISTRY
Dr. Rochefort and his team are very thankful and appreciative for once again being recognized as one of New Hampshire’s Top Dentists! As our team grows, we continue to welcome our patients with the care, comfort and personalized approach they have come to expect and appreciate. We make it our priority to provide quality dental care emphasizing oral health and prevention while also helping
patients achieve the smile they have been looking for. And yes, it’s TRUE — we ARE able to complete most fillings without getting you numb thanks to our Solea dental laser! Come visit us and see how we are practicing tomorrow’s dentistry today!
801 Central Ave., Suite 5, Dover (603) 742-0711 dovernhdentist.com
NASHUA RIVERFRONT DENTISTRY
We welcome you to our dental practice located on the river, in the historic Nashua Telegraph building, in beautiful downtown Nashua, NH! Our entire dental team, and doctors Franklyn Liberatore DMD, PLLC, (aka Dr. Franco) and Francesca Failla DMD Msc, Board Certified Periodontist (aka Dr. Fran) offer general and pediatric care to patients of all ages in our family friendly environment. Our patients can also receive comprehensive, specialized periodontal and implant dentistry conveniently right in our office. We have invested in all the latest digital technology for accuracy in diagnosing and optimal treatment planning. We believe that the relationship you have with your dental care providers should be positive and anxiety-free. We strive to help every patient feel confident and secure about the care they receive in our office. We love new patients of all ages, and value the relationships we have with everyone in our Nashua Riverfront Dental family!
60 Main St., Suite 330, Nashua (603) 886-2700 nashuariverfrontdentistry.com
BEDFORD COMMONS DENTAL
We would like to thank all our peers for voting us as one of the top dentists in the state of New Hampshire. It is an honor to serve our community’s dental needs since 1978. Our family dental office offers top notch dental treatment for kids, youths, and adults. Our services include cleaning, fillings, crowns, root canals, extraction and implants. We are proud to be among the very few general dental offices that utilize the latest 3D/ CBCT imaging technique to improve our patients’ dental diagnoses. Infection control and adhering to the latest CDC guidelines are top priorities in order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all patients and staff. Please call our office to make an appointment for you and your family!
Muhenad Samaan, DMD 401 Riverway Pl., Bedford (603)625-9606 bedfordcommonsdental.com
Muhenad Samaan, DMD
603 DENTAL
The team at 603 Dental aims to provide superior service and quality dental work for your family at its state-of-the-art facility, which exceeds the safety recommendations set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and OSHA. Here, you’ll know that your well-being is the top priority. Dr. Anthony Manfredi, a native New Englander, earned a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Northeastern University before obtaining his doctorate from Boston University School of Dental Medicine. He has been practicing at the Londonderry office for several years. Dr. Muhenad Samaan also completed his education in general dentistry at Boston University. He has been practicing dentistry in Southern New Hampshire for more than 15 years. With their team of experienced hygienists, the dentists at 603 Dental are committed to providing exceptional care with services including general dentistry, cleanings, fillings, implants, and veneers.
Dr. Anthony Manfredi and the team of 603 Dental
75 Gilcreast Road, Unit 104, Londonderry (603) 434-5150 603dentalnh.com
Premiering on Public Television Stations Nationwide This Spring
603 Living
Are We There Yet?
Camping with kids is an option for a close-to-home vacation
BY SARAH PEARSON
Camping is one of those activities that parents seem to pass on, much like those that pass on an affinity for certain sports, like hockey families or football families.
That was the case for Lindsey Lapointe, an outdoor enthusiast and writer who blogs as the Freelance Adventurer. Her parents were both teachers, so their family spent weeks at a time camping during summer vacations.
Now she does the same with her two children beginning when they were mere months old.
“Hiking and camping are part of our family culture,” she says.
I was also raised in a camping family. And in July 1997, our destination was the Seacoast.
My mother’s black van was packed with all manner of gear. We had a metal-pole tent that divided into three rooms and was tall
Left: Lindsey Lapointe’s family relaxs by the fire after a day of camping.
Above: Lapointe’s children have been camping practically since birth. Now at ages 6 and 8, they can help carry some of their own gear on overnight backpacking trips.
enough to fit bunked cots for my brother and me. A canopy covered the tent with equal room left to shade the picnic table area. Completing the accessories for our week of outdoor living was a heavy wood camp kitchen box my dad built with cubbies for the Coleman grill, pots, utensils and all the other cooking supplies. We spent the daytime visiting the USS Albacore, the NH Children’s Museum and Hampton Beach.
My own sons are now about the age that my brother and I were during that vacation, and we’re planning our third summer of family camping.
Lapointe’s son was 3 months old when she took him camping at Acadia National Park, a trip she booked while still pregnant.
“It seemed possible,” she says.
Two years later, her daughter joined the family and was camping that summer.
Even if camping wasn’t part of your childhood experiences, it’s still something worth trying with your family.
There are outdoor organizations, like the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), that offer group programming and workshops. Plus, there are more informal online groups, like on Facebook, for parents to meet up.
Lapointe has also gone on trips with a small group of friends and their children.
Groups are a great option if you want help not only with the planning and packing, but with additional support and supervision at the site.
While in the infant and toddler stages, drive-in camping can be a good introduction.
Lapointe said, when her kids were very small, she picked campgrounds with more amenities and parked with a trailer full of gear that her 20-year-old self would’ve rolled her eyes at.
Now that her kids are older and more experienced campers, she can fit all the gear in the car, and they’ve done overnight backpacking camping trips.
Regardless of whether you drive in to camp or hike out, you’ll want to make sure your choice of campsite has kid-friendly features. Is there a playground at the campground? Are there opportunities to go swimming? What are some nearby attractions you might want to visit, especially if your outdoor plans get rained on?
New Hampshire is home to 23 state parks with campsites, 22 White Mountain National Forest camping areas and dozens more privately managed campgrounds, so there’s no shortage of options.
Lapointe recommends staying close to home when you’re first starting out. She recalled once she was camping with her two kids only about 20 minutes from her home. They ran out of formula, and her husband was able to run home to pick up more.
When hiking to a site, she kept early trips to under a mile from the trailhead. Even now that her children are 8 and 6, she keeps trips under 3 miles, which would
David and Elliot Pearson play blocks with their grandparents at Danforth Bay Campground in 2023.
Top: Sarah Pearson with her mother and brother camping near Hampton in 1997.
Center: Sarah explores the USS Albacore during a day trip amid the 1997 camping adventure.
Bottom: Sarah and her extended family spent many summers tenting at their grandparents’ camp in Ossipee.
be a challenging exit in a hurry. She says AMC hut trips are a great way to get used to backpack camping, since you’ll have dinner prepared for you.
When possible, Lapointe tries to include her kids in the planning, explaining how, for a hut hike, there were two routes: a shorter, less scenic route, or a more challenging route with better views. Her son opted for the shorter this time.
Lapointe says she also considers the features of the trail. Climbing over boulders may be more challenging, but it can also be more entertaining than a flat trail.
Some of the preparations you’ll need for camping are similar to any outing you take your kids on: Bring extra clothes and extra snacks.
It seems like there’s no more enticing play than a giant muddy puddle, but continuing
a forest adventure while soggy is less than fun. Also, the change of scenery and schedule can make potty-trained children more susceptible to accidents.
Even when she’s packed multiple outfits for a single night trip, Lapointe says her kids have hiked out of the woods wearing pajamas — their last dry clothes — on occasion.
When drive-in camping, my family packs clothes and gear in plastic bins as an added measure of protection against water. If you’re backpacking, small water-resistant bags, or even gallon Ziplocs can help keeps things dry and organized.
We use another tote bin to carry our kitchen equipment, dry foods, tools, fire starters and first-aid kit, plus a cooler we fill with food that we freeze as much as possible (bread doesn’t squish when frozen). Camping and hiking are opportunities to
pack treats your family doesn’t usually eat. Some like the classic s’mores. Lapointe says she often brings Pop Tarts on hiking trips with her kids.
As for shelter, an eight-person tent has room for a queen-size air mattress, portable crib and additional floor space to sleep another child or play undercover if it rains.
Camping gear for kids has come a long way in recent years. You can find high-chairs that fold up. Outfitters offer sleeping bag suits for kids too small to safely use blankets or regular sleeping bags. There are sleeping pads that have inflatable bumpers.
You’ll want to consider packing fun stuff, too. Sand toys, bikes and helmets, coloring or card days for rainy spells. Perhaps a magnifying glass and bug taxonomic guide. If you’re going to be near water, pack lifejackets.
Left: David Pearson tests out his bed. Top right: Spaghetti and meatballs are prepared for dinner over the campfire. Bottom right: Camping is exhausting.
PHOTOS COURTESY SARAH PEARSON
PEARSON PACKING LIST
(Drive-in and park camping with toddler and infant)
SHELTER
MUST HAVE
• Tent and extra tarps
• Sleeping bags, camp mats
NICE TO HAVE
• EZ-up canopy
• Pillows, air mattress
• Camp chairs
• Portable crib
BONUS
• Extra blankets
• Hammock
• Outdoor carpet
CLOTHING & TOILETRIES
MUST HAVE
• Outfits for each day you’re away, plus extras for kids
• Warm layers (coat, sweater, as needed for season)
• Rain protection
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hairbrush
• Prescriptions and basic overthe-counter medicine
• Bug spray and sunscreen
• Diapers/wipes (if needed)
NICE TO HAVE
• Bathing suits
• Pajamas
• Towels
• Extra footwear
BONUS
• Shampoo/soap for shower
• Laundry hamper
TOOLS/SAFETY
MUST HAVE
• First-aid kit
• Life jackets, for water activities
• Knife
• Flashlight
• Duct tape
NICE TO HAVE
• Clothesline, clothespins
• Ax
• Device chargers
• Extra batteries
• Tent waterproofing spray
BONUS
• Other lanterns or lighting
• Dustpan and broom
FOOD & FUEL
MUST HAVE
• Food and snacks to cover your time away (bring extras).
• Try to pre-chop and meal prep (and freeze if possible) in advance for heat and serve with ease
• Drinking water
• Cookware and utensils
• Lighter/matches
• Wood for fire (get near destination to avoid transporting invasive species)
• Cooler with frozen bottles of water
• Dishwashing soap, towels, dish bin
NICE TO HAVE
• Condiments
• Beverages other than water
• Trash bags
• Paper towels
• Citronella candles
BONUS
• Portable grill, plus propane or charcoal as needed
• Table cloth
FUN & GAMES
At least one activity that can be done outdoors and one inside tent in case of rain. We usually also have activities from the car ride.
Here are some suggestions: INSIDE
• Board or card games
• Books
• Puzzle books
• Journal or coloring books
• Blocks/building toy
• Toy car/trucks
• Music player and speaker OUTSIDE
• Bikes and helmets
• Binoculars
• Fishing/boating gear
• Sand toys
• Bubbles
• Kid-carrier backpack for hikes
• Frisbee
There’s mental preparation that goes into camping with kids, too.
For yourself, set low expectations. You might not visit every attraction on the list. Your kids might not love camping as much as you do. You might get rain. Your hike might not reach the summit.
You’ll want to prepare your children for things that may be new to them. Have they ever slept in a sleeping bag before? Have them try it before going. Try sleeping in your tent in the yard before your trip.
Teach your kids about campsite safety such as not touching the fire pit, careful handling of tools like knives or axes, and not wandering away from the campsite without a buddy. Explain expectations you have for them before you depart.
If you’re still building your own confidence about camping, a wilderness first-aid course is great to help handle scary situations in the woods, Lapointe advises.
“I think it helps I had confidence being in the outdoors and teaching kids in the outdoors,” Lapointe says. But she adds that she’s met moms with less experience, who had a more urban childhood, and they are doing it, too.
Don’t be afraid to seek advice and recommendations from experts.
While the planning and preparation that goes into camping with kids is not without challenges, once you arrive, you’ll be ready to make some family fun.
“I find it’s easier to entertain (my children),” Lapointe says.
A change of scenery and an opportunity to unplug might be just what you need to make memories this summer. NH
Left: When the Lapointe children were younger, camping meant driving up with big tent, toddler bed and porta-crib. Right: Now, they hike to platforms with their gear.
Calendar
HAPPENINGS FOR AUGUST
July 29-August 6
Sunflower Festival > You might say it’s the perfect flower to celebrate summer: the sunflower. Coppal House Farm turns into a sea of sunflowers every July during the New Hampshire Sunflower Festival. The variety of flowers at the farm is unique because they’re oilseed sunflowers. Unlike ornamental blooms, they only bloom for about 10 days, so the window to witness this stunning sight is short. 118 North River Road, Route 155, Lee. nhsunflower.com. New Hampshire Magazine is a proud sponsor of this event.
PHOTO COURTESY
FEATURED EVENT
August 1-4
Cheshire Fair > This traditional agricultural fair will feature entertainment, crafts, vendors, rides, animals and plenty of live music. Special events for 2024 include performances by the Northeast Six Shooters, Larry Lee Ebera, The Lake Effect Band and more. This year’s theme is “Country Nights and Carnival Lights.” This year will also have a new midway, and new rides and games. Prices and times TBA, 247 Monadnock Highway, Swanzey. (603) 357-4740; cheshirefair.org
August 2
Let’s Sing Taylor: A Live Band Experience > Calling all Swifties! Get ready for the ultimate tribute to the music of Taylor Swift. Featuring the most faithful covers of her expansive catalog, Let’s Sing Taylor: A Live Band Experience is taking the country by storm with sold-out shows from coast to coast. Put on your Taylor-inspired attire and prepare to sing along with the band. 7:30 p.m., $27-$47, The Lebanon Opera House, 51 North Park St., Lebanon. (603) 448-0400; lebanonoperahouse.org
August 2-3
Journey to Jericho – ATV Jamboree > This festival is an ATV enthusiast’s dream come true. The event takes place at Jericho Mountain State Park, which has more than 80 miles of trails. There will be mud races, demo rides, obstacle courses, helicopter rides, poker run, kids’ fun zone, live music, delicious food, a downtown block party and more. Ticket prices and times vary, Jericho Mountain State Park, 298 Jericho Lake Road, Berlin. androscogginvalleychamber.com
August 2-4
42nd Annual Hot Air Balloon Rally > This event, put on by the Suncook Valley Rotary, has something fun for everyone in your family. There will be a carnival, tethered hot air balloon rides, helicopter rides, craft fair, food, drinks and so much more. Free to attend. Times vary, Drake Field, 17 Fayette St., Pittsfield. pittsfieldnh.gov
August 3
Great New England BBQ & Food Truck Festival
> This family-fun event features a cornhole tournament, a kids’ zone with free bounce houses, face painting, axe throwing, artisans, music, food trucks, caricature drawings and more. $5. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Hampshire Hills Athletic Club, 50 Emerson Road, Milford. gnefoodtruckfest.com
August 3-11
91st Annual League of NH Craftmen’s Fair > Artisans and crafters from around the state set up shop at this massive fest, which boasts the title of oldest continuously running craft fair in the U.S. Come ready to shop or just to learn and admire; tap in for learn-how-it’s-made workshops scattered throughout the week, or to the exhibition building full of curated art shows. There’s also live music, chances to meet artisans one-on-one and other fun events held throughout the week. Mount Sunapee Resort, 1398 Route 103, Newbury. (603) 763-3500; nhcrafts.org. New Hampshire Magazine is a proud sponsor of this event.
August 8-10
The 67th Annual New Hampshire Antiques Show > Managed by a team of dedicated volunteers, the New Hampshire Antiques Show is considered “the best show of its kind in New England” (“Maine Antique Digest”). The 59
FEATURED EVENT
professional antiques dealers who exhibit at the show save merchandise throughout the year in order to ensure that the show maintains its longstanding reputation for “fresh-to-the-market” antiques. $10-$15. Times vary, DoubleTree by Hilton, 700 Elm St., Manchester. nhada.org. New Hampshire Magazine is a proud sponsor of this event.
August 10
The Doobie Brothers > Woah! Listen to the music! The Doobie Brothers are coming to the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion. Prices vary, 7 p.m., Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, 72 Meadowbrook Lane, (603) 293-4700; banknhpavilion.com
August 12
The 16th Annual Hampton Beach Children’s Festival > There’s no better place to be a kid than at Hampton Beach. The Hampton Beach Children’s Festival will delight the young (and young at heart) with magic shows, storytelling, a costume parade and more. Free, times vary. Hampton Beach State Park, NH 1-A, Hampton. hamptonbeach.org
August 15
KC and the Sunshine Band > Get down tonight, and shake your booty with KC and the Sunshine Band at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom. $66-$559. 8 p.m., Hampton Casino Ballroom, 169 Ocean Blvd., Hampton. (603) 929-4100; casinoballroom.com
August 10
Woods, Water and Wildlife Festival > This day-long celebration of the great outdoors is a chance for families to have fun, explore and learn about the natural world together and features fun and educational outdoor activities. Take a hay ride to the river, observe and learn about NH wildlife, explore the corn maze, take a discovery walk, watch demonstrations of traditional skills, try your hand at fishing, do crafts with your kids and more. Prices vary. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Branch Hill Farm, 307 Applebee Road, Milton Mills. (603) 473-2020; mmrgnh.org
August 16-18
White Mountain Boogie n’ Blues Festival > With two decades of festival sand and a bevy of national blues preservation awards under its belt, this boogiefest is not to be missed. This year’s lineup includes Joanne Shaw Taylor, Vanessa Collier and so many more. To really dive into the festival experience, rent a campsite on the Boogie’s sprawling White Mountains grounds. Prices and times vary, Sugar Shack Campground, 210 NH Route 175, North Thornton. (603) 726-3867; whitemountainboogie.com
August 16-18
Cornish Fair > Since 1950, the Cornish Fair remains a traditional, family-friendly, educational, agricultural fair offering fruits and vegetable exhibits, horse and oxen-pulling, 4-H, crafts, children’s activities, live entertainment, vendors, amusement rides and more. The Cornish Fair is also home to the largest dairy show in all of New Hampshire, and remains committed to the education and sustainability of the agriculture industry. This year’s theme is “Mills.” Prices and times TBA, 294 Town House Road, Cornish. (603) 675-5426; cornishfair.org
August 23-25
North Country Moose Festival > Head to Colebrook the weekend before Labor Day to celebrate all things “moose.” This year’s festivities include live music, arts and crafts vendors, horse and wagon rides, and rumor has it, there is even a moose-calling contest. There will also be a dog show, maple syrup tasting contest and the classic car show. Bring the whole family to this old-time fun event that showcases the many diverse talents and services in the North Country. Free admission on Friday, Saturday, $6. Friday 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Downtown Main Street, Colebrook. (603) 237-8939; mygonorth.com
August 24
AutoFair NH 10 Miler > Run 10 miles. Attend after-party. Repeat? This event takes runners on a near-half-marathon run around the perimeter of Massabesic Lake, then rewards them with a free post-race beer. $50-$90. 8 a.m., Massabesic Lake, 1 Londonderry Turnpike, Manchester. (603) 488-1186; millenniumrunning.com
August 24
10th Annual Gate City Brewfest > As summer starts winding down, head to Nashua for one last beer-fueled hurrah. An extensive beer list, live music, a cornhole tournament and more are on tap. $15-$70. 1-5 p.m., Holman Stadium, 67 Amherst St., Nashua. gatecitybrewfestnh.com. New Hampshire Magazine is a proud sponsor of this event. NH
Find additional events at nhmagazine.com/ calendar. Submit events eight weeks in advance to Elisa Gonzales Verdi (egonzalesverdi@nhmagazine.com) or enter your own at nhmagazine.com/calendar. Not all events are guaranteed to be published either online or in the print calendar. Event submissions will be reviewed and, if deemed appropriate, approved by a New Hampshire Magazine editor.
Fact or Fiction?
Get the skinny on these six common health myths
BY KRYSTEN GODFREY MADDOCKS / ILLUSTRATION BY JOHN R. GOODWIN
Social media posts and well-meaning family members are often quick to share health tips that, at best, are misleading and, at worst, can be harmful.
Following such advice can have a significant impact on your health, leading you to avoid certain foods and practices — or even encouraging you to spend money on diets and gadgets that aren’t necessary.
Emily Thompson, a dietitian and bariatric coordinator at WentworthDouglass Hospital’s Center for Weight Management and Bariatric Surgery, shares her insights to debunk some common health misconceptions.
1. You should walk 10,000 steps a day to maintain good heart health. Thompson says: False. It’s a good start but may not be enough to gain cardiovascular benefits.
Many people focus on logging 10,000 steps a day, but that number could add up to less than we think it does. For sedentary people or those with health concerns, that number might not be attainable at all, and for those looking to lose weight or improve their car-
diovascular health, it might not be enough, Thompson says.
For example, you could walk 10,000 steps daily, but you may only see cardiovascular benefits if you reach your target heart rate zone.
“The better recommendation is to instead follow the Center for Disease Control’s activity guidelines of getting 150 to 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity cardiovascular exercise per week,” she says. “It’s not just a matter of duration but also intensity. On a scale of 1 to 10 based on perceived exertion, you want to aim for a 6 or higher.”
Thompson says novice exercisers should aim for 10,000 steps, but should look to build upon their activity by adding in more intense exercise.
2. You should drink eight, 8-ounce glasses of water daily to stay hydrated. Thompson says: True. For most people, it’s a good rule of thumb.
Drinking 64 ounces of water (8 ounces, eight times a day) is a good idea for most people, although some people require less
fluid due to medical conditions. Thompson says that for the most part, drinking 64 ounces of water daily hydrates you, but you should also pay attention to your body and adjust as needed.
“If it’s extremely hot outside and you are exercising, sweating or engaging in any sort of heavy breathing, you’re losing hydration,” she says. “So you’re definitely going to want to drink more than that, even during the winter.”
3. Muscle weighs more than fat. Thompson says: True, but more muscle = a faster metabolism.
In addition to cardiovascular exercise, it’s critical to engage in muscle-building activities — even if lifting weights adds a couple of extra pounds to your frame. People may see an initial increase in their weight when they begin weight training because muscle truly is heavier than fat. However, those with more muscle mass also burn more calories at rest, Thompson says.
“In our clinic, we have what is called an InBody machine that does body composition analysis. After our patients complete bariatric surgery, we use it to check their body composition,” she says. “And those who have a higher muscle mass truly do show a higher metabolic rate. The more muscle mass you have, the more calories you need.”
When patients shed weight, they often lose muscle mass. To maintain it, you should aim to engage in strength training, varying muscle groups, a minimum of two days per week.
“You can start slow, using your body weight, by doing pushups, squats and strength exercises that are a little bit lower intensity,” she says. “As you become stronger, you can start using resistance machines, cables and free weights.”
5. If you want to lose weight, you shouldn’t eat anything after 7 p.m.
Thompson says: False. The time you eat doesn’t affect your weight.
There’s no data that supports eating more calories at one time of the day results in weight gain, but Thompson says she sees a lot of patients struggle with eating at night out of boredom — the time of day when they are more apt to choose ice cream and sweets out of habit or boredom.
“There’s a place for eating after 7 p.m. if they are the right foods, especially for those who work second shift. If you have to eat
a later dinner, don’t skip your meal just because it’s after 7,” she says. “But if eating after 7 p.m. means snacking on the couch, I wouldn’t endorse that.”
4. Daily vitamins are necessary for good health.
Thompson says: False, in most cases.
Supplements advertised online, in retail stores, and even by health organizations promise energy, youthfulness and protection from disease. But chances are, you don’t need to add extra vitamins to your diet, Thompson says. The supplement industry is not regulated by the Food and Drug Association and is loosely regulated — meaning companies can make broader claims about their effectiveness.
“This is a topic that is very sensitive to me. Excluding our bariatric patients who do need vitamins, for the most part, the general population does not need to take a multivitamin, assuming they are eating a good, healthy, balanced diet,” she says.
“There are studies that show that a multivitamin can be harmful to some people. It’s certainly something you’d want to talk to your doctor about, but it is not necessarily
something that’s going to benefit you.”
The one vitamin you may lack is Vitamin D, as most people living in northern climates are deficient in this vitamin due to lack of sun exposure.
“You can certainly get tested for Vitamin D to find out what your level is, and that is a supplement that I would support if you have a deficiency. It’s not found in a lot of foods, so it’s important that we supplement that if it’s deficient,” she says. “Otherwise, nutrition deficiencies are not very common if you are eating a healthy, balanced diet. If you’re not eating a healthy diet, I would connect with a dietitian to ensure you are getting enough micronutrients.”
6. The artificial sweeteners in diet sodas and drinks cause cancer.
Thompson says: False. It would be very difficult to ingest enough sugar replacements for it to have a carcinogenic effect.
There’s myriad of conflicting information on the internet about artificial sweeteners. If you pull FDA data and look at the safety level of these sweeteners, Thompson says it would take a very, very high level of consumption of nonnutritive sweeteners
to exceed safety levels.
“Depending on the sweetener, you’d have to eat 50 or so packets per day for it to be harmful; it’s a very high threshold of safety. However, if you’re consuming them daily, I might suggest that you decrease your intake to using them once in a while,” she says.
If you prefer a sweetened beverage, Thompson suggests diluting water with Crystal Light rather than drinking regular or Diet Coke.
“There’s data that shows when people replace their Coke with Diet Coke, they may compensate for those calories elsewhere,” she says. “I’m not as concerned about artificial sweeteners potentially causing cancer as I am about the effects they might have on people cutting them back and then overcompensating with something else.”
It’s easy to buy into long-standing health advice. But before you tweak your diet or exercise routine — and pass misleading advice on to others — it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction. If you’re concerned about your nutrition and well-being, consult a registered dietitian or your primary health care provider. NH
Manchester’s United Nations of Soccer
In June of 1974, Mom uprooted my five siblings and me from our home in New Jersey and relocated to Manchester’s North End. For Mom, it was a homecoming of sorts, having grown up on Manchester’s predominantly FrenchCanadian West Side.
Mom’s brothers — my Uncle Arthur and Uncle Bill — played football and baseball for the Giant Killers of St. Joseph High School for Boys (now Trinity High). It was Uncle Art, a Jesuit priest, who changed the trajectory of my athletic life.
While a novitiate in Beirut, Lebanon, the future Father Pare was smitten with the global sport of “football,” or soccer. When Mom suggested that we were interested in football, Art interceded: “Jane, the boys should really play soccer.”
Our teams mirrored our town’s ethnic diversity, with Italians, Greeks, Austrians, Germans, eastern Europeans, Central Americans and South Americans. I loved it. The game was a refuge, especially after cancer claimed my father in 1971.
Moving to New Hampshire, after my sophomore year in high school, Manchester was a mystery. I expected a fairly lily-white turnout at Hillside Junior High’s rocky, undersized field. Instead, I found a group
resembling the United Nations.
Manchester in 1974 wasn’t as culturally complex as it is today, but our soccer team was. There were players from assorted backgrounds, including French-Canadian (Gelinas, Cusson, Chaput, Benard), Greek (Kaliora, Lekkas, Venagas, Pashos), and Ecuadorian (Carachuelo). There was Luce, Larea, Demenchuk, Zito, Johnson, Witcher, Hamilton and Connelly. Our superb goalkeeper, Doug Zesiger, was a senior with All-American good looks. But the unquestioned stars were a pair of Colombian immigrants — Jimmy Sierra and Henry Saldariaga — and a dazzling Haitian, Danny Lascaze.
“The only school in Manchester that had ethnic diversity, and still does, was Central,” says Jim “Chick” Lekkas, a fellow junior. “This is where the inner-city kids lived and went to school. I met Jimmy (Sierra) during the summer men’s league, and asked him to try out. We couldn’t get more ethnic kids because so many must work after school.”
Despite being a newcomer, I felt right at home. We were teenagers — notorious for judging others — but everyone was far more concerned about whether I could play. That’s the beauty of sports. They’re a meritocracy.
“My first experience with real soccer
BY BRION O’CONNOR
came the summer following my freshman year,” says Steve Long, another junior that year. “I played a game on a team that was shorthanded, and mostly manned by folks from the Greek community. I credit those guys with my introduction to the sport, since they encouraged me to keep playing.”
Central soccer teams were rarely exceptional, but Coach Veilleux and the players realized this senior-laden squad could be. Except for one early-season hiccup against powerhouse Alvirne, we ran the table, capturing the city championship with a 12-1-1 mark. Meanwhile, I became adept at cursing in six languages, a handy skill when publicly sharing my opinions about the refs.
What we all knew, intrinsically, was that soccer rewards unselfish cooperation. Ethnicity doesn’t matter; talent and teamwork do. When all 11 players work as a unit, magic can happen.
“The 1974 team was my first brush with ethnic diversity,” Long says. “That helped prepare me for joining the Peace Corps and meeting my wife-to-be from Mumbai in graduate school. As a provincial kid from a New Hampshire mill town, I wouldn’t have gotten very far without my exposure to the ethnic diversity that came from playing on that team.” NH
Get back to it. All of it.
A knee that works
for
steep trails
A hip that works for cleaning up the garden
A shoulder that works for playing with the grandkids
All of the above
Feeling better isn’t just about minimizing pain. It’s about getting back to what you love. Dartmouth Health offers the most advanced, personalized treatment plans developed by providers you can trust. Some patients may even be able to go home the same day as their surgery.
Wherever you are, Dartmouth Health’s expert orthopaedic care is there for you.
Make an appointment and get back to it. go.d-h.org/ortho-care
The best, where it matters most.
