NH Business Review May 22, 2020

MAY 22 - JUNE 4, 2020 VOL. 42 • NO. 10 • $1.75

ONLINE @ NHBR.COM

FEATURED INTERVIEW

Q&A: UNH Law Professor John Greabe PAGE 33

What will business life be like after PAGE 9 Labor Day?

If you let them, will they

As NH slowly emerges from shutdown, not every business and not all customers are ready to follow

reopen?

PAGE 10

Helping nonprofits manage disruption Empower Success Corps’ retired execs offer expert guidance

BY MICHAEL KITCH

“I’ve probably learned more from my clients than I imagined,” said John Woodard. “Each experience has been a formative experience.”

A retired attorney, Woodard — who has been engaged in the nonprofit world both as a board member and volunteer consultant for 40 years — is among some 30 retired professionals and executives serving as volunteers in the ranks of the Empower Success Corps-Northern New England,

who provide consulting services to nonprofit organizations across New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. “I am very committed to my work with ESC,” he said.

In 2019, the 6,547 nonprofit corporations operating in New Hampshire — 40% of them providing health and human services — employed 83,000 people earning $4.6 billion in wages.

As Susan Geier recently reported in NH Business Review, a survey by the New Hampshire HELPING NONPROFITS, PAGE 15

Lynn Post, director of Empower Success Corps-Northern New England says that its volunteers bring impressive résumés and considerable experience to their role.

New Hampshire hospitals’ changing workforce needs PAGE 30 Localities fear ‘long-term, significant’ fiscal impacts Covid costs, revenue declines raise municipal budget alarms

BY MICHAEL KITCH

The financial impacts of the Covid-19 outbreak on cities and towns across the state are expected to be “long-term and significant,” according to a survey conducted by the New Hampshire Municipal Association.

Cities and towns are finding themselves squeezed between increasing expenses and decreasing revenues, an equation that foreshadows mounting pressure on property taxes.

Gov. Chris Sununu announced on May 5 that $40 million would be distributed among municipalities and counties to offset a share of the expenses incurred between March 1 and Aug. 31 to cope with Covid-19. Municipalities will receive $30 million and the 10 counties $10 million. The funds will be distributed based the 2018 population data as calculated by the Office of Strategic Initiatives.

Local governments will be reimbursed only for Covid-19 expenses actually incurred, and then only up to the amount allocated based on their populations.

For instance, if a municipality is allocated $100,000, but its qualiMUNICIPALITIES, PAGE 16

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GOOD SUPPORTS

Eastern Bank is honored to have been able to offer financial relief to thousands of MA and NH businesses during this time - including helping to secure over 8,000 Paycheck Protection Program Loans, providing $1.2 Billion in funding for our local businesses in need.

Thank you to our colleagues, customers and community for joining us in our efforts to bring relief to our business community.

And for all the GOOD we will continue to do together.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES DURING SMALL BUSINESS MONTH.

www.easternbank.com

â—?

N H B R.C O M

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

IN BRIEF Ernesto Burden Vice President/Publisher eburden@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5117

Lukewarm reception for Covid liability protection

A proposal to shield New Hampshire protocols to protect public health.

Only if there were “clear and convincing evidence” that businesses from liability arising from the Covid-19 virus received a lukewarm re- exposure resulted from “gross negligence, willful misconception May 6, when it was presented to duct, intentional criminal conduct or intentional infliction of Liisa Rajala Associate Editor the Governor’s Economic Re-Opening harm” on the part of the business could it be held liable. lrajala@nhbr.com, ext. 5158 Harris echoed the BIA by saying that without a measure Task Force.

Bob Sanders Staff Writer A day earlier, the Business and Industry of protection against liability there was a heightened risk bsanders@nhbr.com, ext. 5136 Association of New Hampshire had asked of slowing the pace of economic recovery, as some firms Gov. Chris Sununu to declare an emer- would choose to remain shuttered while others trimmed Mista McDonnell Business Manager gency order that would spare businesses their operations and workforce. mmcdonnell@nhbr.com, ext. 5114 NASHUA REGION in compliance with prescribed LAKES REGION NORTH COUNTRY Sen. Kevin Cavanaugh, D-Manchester, chair of the Senate operating Jodie Hall Creative Services Director public health guidelines from liability Commerce Committee — who with Sen. Martha Hennessy, jhall@nhbr.com, ext. 5122 should an employee, customer or client D-Hanover, had written to the governor the day before callNancy Tichanuk Senior Graphic Artist sickened by the virus file a personal injury ing the proposal “a mistake” — acknowledged the imporntichanuk@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5116 suit. The emergency order was intended tance of the issue. But he said that it was outside the scope Attorney James Harris, who wrote proas a prelude to pursuing legislation with of the task force.

Robin Saling Graphic Artist posed language for potential legislation, TOP ROW: BUSINESS TECH, ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, HOSPITALS, BANKING, FINANCE, ENERGYrethe same intentPERSONAL when the Legislature Sen. Sharon Carson, R-Londonderry, cautioned that “this rsaling@nhbr.com, ext.

5124 said that without liability protection SECOND ROW: FEATURE STORY AND JUMPS, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, OPINIONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT TOWN convenes. will get complicated,” suggesting the issue be vetted by the there was a heightened risk of a slower Kimberly Lencki AdvertisingTHIRD Sales Director ROW: REAL ESTATE + CONSTRUCTION, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, TOURISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE The overture included draft language, New Hampshire Bar Association. “In particular, she raised economic recovery. klencki@mcleancommunications.com, 5154 AREA GRAPHICS, another TOURISM choice, CALENDAR, LAST WORD FORTHext.ROW: prepared by a team of attorneys, which the question of creating a precedent, which she said “could Karen Bachelder Sales Executive Jim Roche, president of the BIA, said be applied to any communicable virus, including the comkbachelder@nhbr.com, ext. 5148 could serve as a basis of both the emergency order and mon cold.” subsequent legislation.

Meanwhile, the governor, questioned at a press briefing Cynthia Stone Sales Executive James Harris, an attorney at Sheehan Phinney who served on Wednesday, replied “it is a very serious issue” and “we’re cstone@nhbr.com, ext. 5146 with the drafting team, told the task force that the proposal looking at it. There are a lot of businesses that should be Connie McCullion Sales Executive would provide that no business shall be liable for personal protected. Absolutely.” cmccullion@nhbr.com, ext. 5121 injury caused by exposure to coronavirus while working But he also repeated that “it’s a question that should be for or otherwise engaged with the business, provided answered at the federal level by Congress and not at the Ronnie Schlender Special Projects Sales that the business was complying with all guidance and state level.” — MICHAEL KITCH Representative Jeff Feingold Editor jfeingold@nhbr.com, ext. 5118

rschlender@nhbr.com, ext. 5150 Angela LeBrun Sales & Marketing Coordinator alebrun@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5120 Emily Samatis Event & Marketing Manager esamatis@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5125 Kristine Senna Event Coordinator ksenna@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5113 Heather Rood Business and Sales Coordinator hrood@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5110 Morgen Connor Digital Media Specialist mconnor@mcleancommunications.com, ext. 5149 Brook Holmberg Vice President, Consumer Marketing brookh@yankeepub.com Sherin Pierce Vice President, Retail Sales sherinp@yankeepub.com

150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 624-1442 • www.nhbr.com Subscription Information: (877) 494-2036 or NHBR@emailcustomerservice.com NHBR (USPS 413430) New Hampshire Business Review is published 26 times a year, bi-weekly (except for July and December), with an additional issue in July and December, by McLean Communications, 150 Dow Street, Manchester, NH 03101. Periodical postage paid at Manchester, NH. Subscription rates: One year, $32, two years, $55, three years, $80. Single copy $1.75. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NHBR, PO Box 433273, Palm Coast, FL 32143. NHBR assumes no responsibility for typographical errors that do not materially affect the value of the advertisement. This publication’s liability for an error shall not exceed the cost of the space occupied by the error. (ISSN: 0164-8152)

Bicycle shops’ inventory While the coronavirus pandemic has shuttered many businesses this spring, local bicycle shops have seen record numbers as people are stuck at home and are looking for a way to exercise. Yet the shops are also being bit by the virus, due to its effects on the other side of the world.

Included in the governor’s list of “essential businesses,” bicycle shops have been permitted to keep their doors open even while others have been ordered closed.

Pat Bolduc, who runs the bicycle operation at Piche’s Ski and Sport in Gilford, said service has been able to continue without a “hiccup.” Sales, on the other hand, are about to hit a rough patch, due to the supply chain that delivers new bicycles to local showrooms.

Most bikes, especially those made for children or the entry-level adult category, are made in Asia, where production was shut down when the coronavirus infection began spreading in China. Bolduc said he’s sold out of most of his inventory, and has just a “very limited” supply remaining.

A few miles down the road, Myles Chase at MC Cycle and Sport said he’s seen much of the same thing. He said his spring has been “definitely above average.”

This year, though, MC Cycle’s spring inventory started to dry up by mid-March, about a month and a half earlier than usual.

He said he doesn’t know how soon his suppliers will be able to send him another delivery.

“They really don’t have a firm date on it yet, because like most of the bike brands out there, our price-point bikes are made in China, and their factories shut down 12, 16 weeks ago. At that time they would be working on our summertime inventory. Unless the brands expedite things, we could be without bikes for some time,” Chase said.

“The inventory is not even available for us to order,” said Steve Flagg, owner of The Nordic Skier in Wolfeboro. His shop deals in cross-country skis in the winter and switches to bicycles once the snow melts. Flagg said his shop has seen an unusually heavy repair load this year.

“It’s always busier in the spring for bike shops, but it’s got to be related to the current pandemic,” Flagg said, adding that he’s getting close to sold-out for new bikes.

And if customers can’t get a new one, they want to get their old bike road-worthy.

“There definitely seems to be a lot of people bringing in their old bikes, they haven’t ridden it in years, they need a tune up and new tires. A lot of it is driven by what the world is experiencing,” Flagg said.

— ADAM DRAPCHO/ THE LACONIA DAILY SUN

Tim White, a technician at The Nordic Skier in Wolfeboro tunes up a customer’s bicycle.

(Courtesy photo)

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IN BRIEF

Maria Devlin named new president of FIT-NH

Business owners share worries with Shaheen over PPP provisions

Several small businesses and non- “nothing regarding forgiveness was back to Washington.

“I think the issue is not the intent profits across New Hampshire told in writing. I signed paperwork that I U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen that the got a loan and I was going to pay it (of forgiveness) but reassurance and Paycheck Protection Program has back in two years. I would like to use guidance,” Shaheen said.

The hour-long conference call was a provided much needed short–term it for hazard pay, bonus pay, but withrelief to keep employees on the pay- out rules for forgiveness I don’t feel wide-ranging discussion of the expeNASHUA REGION LAKES REGION UNTRY roll in the midst of the Covid-19 pan- safe using the money, so I am using rience of businesses and nonprofits that have successfully applied for a demic, but they also had complaints as little as possible.”

As a seasonal business, Levin said PPP loan. Shaheen said she was lookabout the program including uncerthe requirement he maintain staff- ing for input she could take to Washtainty about loan forgiveness.

Dave and Melissa Levin, owners of ing levels as one of the conditions for ington to make improvements.

“My hope is I can learn what is Mad River Coffee House in Campton, loan forgiveness is simply not reasonBUSINESS TECH, ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, HOSPITALS, BANKING, PERSONAL FINANCE,inENERGY good and changes you would like to told Shaheen a conference call ear- able.

OW: FEATURE STORY AND JUMPS, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, OPINIONS, THElier LATEST, “There is no proof that come July 1 see,” Shaheen said. “There are chalthis ABOUT monthTOWN that the process to obW: REAL ESTATE + CONSTRUCTION, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, TOURISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE tain an $82,000 loan went smoothly I’m going to need the same staffing lenges that have arisen with the proW: AREA GRAPHICS, another TOURISM choice, CALENDAR, LAST WORD because of a strong relationship with we had in the middle of the White gram,” she acknowledged. “It has not worked exactly as intended and their bank, but Dave Levin said he is Mountains ski season,” Levin said.

Levin’s comments were echoed by some of that is a result of how quickly reluctant to spend the money without fully understanding the require- Adria Bagshaw, owner of WH Bag- it came together.”

In response to several participants shaw, a Nashua-based manufacturer ments for forgiveness. who said their money for eight weeks Under the PPP, small businesses of pins. can receive 1% U.S. Small Business “There is no proof, senator, that the of payroll will run out in June, ShaAdministration loans through their loan will be forgiven,” Bagshaw told heen said a fourth stimulus package bank. To be forgivable, 75% of the Shaheen. “There is nothing in the loan will likely be forthcoming but said it is too early to say what type of asmoney must be spent on payroll over guarantee we signed.”

Maria Devlin, president and CEO, curShaheen said she was sympathet- sistance will be included. an eight-week period and the rest on rently CEO of the American Red Cross ic to both Levin and Bagshaw and mortgage interest, rent or utilities.

— PATRICK O’GRADY/GRANITE for Northern New England, has been STATE NEWS COLLABORATIVE Levin said that in the loan closing, promised to bring their concerns named the new president of Families in Transition-New Horizons, which provides food, shelter and other services of a $1 million grant application CONCORD: John Foster of HAMPTON: Planet Fitness for homeless people and families in to the Northern Borders Regional Portsmouth has been sentenced is facing a potential class action New Hampshire.

Commission.

Devlin, who starts her new job at to over four years in federal prison lawsuit filed by a member who alFIT-NH on June 15, succeeds Maureen for persuading people to give him leges the New Hampshire-based Beauregard, the founder of the organithousands of dollars for lobster gym chain charged membership zation who last year took over as CEO shipments and business projects fees despite the facilities closing of Easterseals New Hampshire. She was that never came through. Court their doors due to the coronavirus selected after an extensive national documents said Foster owned J.O. pandemic. The member, a Georgia search, the organization said.

Foods, which facilitated the pur- resident, alleges Planet Fitness A New Hampshire native, Devlin has chase and shipment of food to for- debited $19.99 from his bank acCONCORD: $400 million in over 30 years of nonprofit experience. eign countries. He agreed to send count on March 18, well after his federal coronavirus relief funds will Before the American Red Cross, she several thousand pounds of lobster local franchise closed in the first be available to New Hampshire’s was interim executive director and dito Vietnam. A customer agreed to week of March due to the pandemsmall businesses and another $60 rector of public affairs for the Children’s pay J.O. Foods $145,500, and Fos- ic. Planet Fitness hasn’t yet filed a million to nonprofits. The money Alliance of New Hampshire (now New ter falsely assured the company legal response, but in a statement, will come from New Hampshire’s CONCORD: New Hampshire’s that the lobster was being shipped. a company spokesperson said, Futures Kids Count), an organization $1.25 billion in relief aid received lawmakers will be returning for that advocates, educates and collabo“We believe this lawsuit is without last month. Businesses can fill legislative sessions in June, but rates to improve the health and wellmerit.” out pre-grant applications through meeting outside of their respective ness of New Hampshire residents.

May 29 at revenue.nh.gov or goferr. chambers at the State House — the “Maria’s broad experience navigatnh.gov. Those that are approved first time since the Civil War. Instead ing the unique needs of the nonprofit would have to fill out a second ap- of meeting at Representatives Hall, world combined with her lifelong complication to get final approval. the 400-member House will meet munity connections in New Hampshire at the Whittemore Center at the makes her a perfect fit for the FIT-NH University of New Hampshire in Durfamily and its mission in service of the LACONIA: A modified redevel- ham, where the UNH hockey team statewide community,” said Scott Elopment plan for the former Laconia plays its games, on June 11. “We lison, chair of the organization’s board.

State School campus would create need a place that is large enough to “She is a compassionate leader with 150 direct and indirect jobs, attract allow us to socially distance while a business savvy that is exactly what $7 million in private development not being so large as to create its we need to continue to successfully and generate $160,000 annually in own logistical problems,” House HUDSON: Hillwood Enterprises is proposing to build the Hudson Lonavigate the unique challenges of this property taxes for the city, accord- Speaker Stephen Shurtleff said in gistics Center, a 2.6 million-square-foot house a distribution center at the pandemic while preparing to serve ing to a study by economist Russ an announcement. The 24-member longtime Green Meadow Golf Club. Hillwood anticipates that once operacommunity needs long into the future.”

Thibeault of Applied Economic Resources. The plan is the foundation

Senate will meet in Representatives Hall at a date to be determined.

tional, the center would be the town’s largest employer. Hillwood said it hopes to start construction this fall and open in the fall of 2021.

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

5

➜TAKE

FACEBOOK has released an April survey showing one-third of

86,000 U.S. small businesses have stopped operating, while another 11% expect to fail in the next three months if Covid-19 conditions persist. Of the businesses

that are closed, 19% are still paying at least partial wages to employees who can’t work. Most of the closed businesses don’t know how they will find the money to reopen, and don’t expect to rehire employees that they had to cut.

Manchester, New Hampshire

pening an average of 2.6 times per week versus 2.4 times prior, according to Piper’s survey. Approximate-

Woman makes distancing social by paying 148 miles of tolls for three drivers behind her.

hamburgers, and Mexican food were among the most popular delivery items during Covid-19.

We are a community of unexpected gestures.

WHILE restaurants slowly begin to

reopen for dine-in guests, consumers are not eager to rush back, according to a national survey by investment company Piper Sandler. The twopart survey conducted in April and May found just 47% of consumer are likely to visit their favorite restaurants as soon as they reopen, well below the 60% who said they would do so in the April survey.

The group surveyed had an average age of 44 and an average income of $78,000, and 90% were abiding by stay-at-home orders.

FOOD delivery in May was hap-

ly 50% of consumers surveyed said they were visiting restaurants for drive-thru or pickup. Pizza,

MARKETING Firm NPD Group

reported U.S. restaurant chain transactions improved for the past four weeks ending May 10, as states gradually reopened. NPD said total restaurant transactions were down 23%, a slight improvement from the 26% decline the prior week.

NIELSEN also conducted a survey

of consumers in Georgia, Tennessee, Florida and Texas as the states began to reopen. Nielsen asked the 71% of respondents who hadn’t returned to on-premise dining and drinking establishments why they’d held off thus far and 48% said they needed more time to feel comfortable visiting on-premise establishments, 47% said they do

not feel safe going out, 47% said they worried about their proximity to strangers and 24% said they were self-isolating.

Kindness is spreading. See and share more stories at bangor.com/spreadkindness

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IN BRIEF

New Hampshire’s Covid unemployment rate tops 17% As New Hampshire’s economy begins to reopen, initial unemployment claims keep pouring in, though at a lesser rate, bringing the state’s coronavirus-related unemployment rate to 17.1%, according to New Hampshire Employment Security’s analysis of claims filed between March 15 and May 2.

NASHUA REGION LAKES REGION NORTH COUNTRY Waterville Valley, the resort area and the home of Gov. Chris Sununu’s family business, had the highest rate in the state, a whopping 46.8%. When it comes to counties, tourism-dependent Carroll County had Last week, the week ending May 9, there the highest rate, 26.6%. Rockingham County’s were another 9,491 initial claims filed, bringTOP ROW: BUSINESS FINANCE,since ENERGY rateTECH, wasARCHITECTURE, 15%, but thatENGINEERING, rate is likely HOSPITALS, to be as BANKING, ing the PERSONAL total to 182,925 the pandemic SECOND ROW: FEATURE ANDpoints JUMPS,higher, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, OPINIONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT TOWN manySTORY as four since it doesn’t first hit the state.

THIRD ROW: REAL include ESTATE + New CONSTRUCTION, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MOREofONLINE HampshireEDUCATION, residents HEALTHCARE, laid off in TOURISM, The good news is that the number initial FORTH ROW: AREA Massachusetts GRAPHICS, anotherorTOURISM CALENDAR, LAST claims WORD continues to go down. The initial numMaine, choice, according to the analysis. ber last week was 24% lower than the 12,475 Restaurants, which will be allowed to open filed during the week ending May 2, but that’s up to outdoors dining next week, has been still almost 20 times the number of weekly the hardest-hit economic sector, with 22,000 claims filed before the pandemic-induced refilings. Retail was next, with nearly 20,000 cession. (new car dealers accounting for 2,600 of Nationally, weekly new claims fell by 8%. In those), and healthcare was third at nearly seven states, led by Connecticut, claims went 15,400. up. Nearly 3 million Americans filed initial All told, some 173,000 workers filed for ben- claims last week, bringing the total to 36.5 efits during the time period, but 116,600 were million. That will add to the national unemactually collecting unemployment during the ployment rate, which was 14.7% in April. The week ending May 2. Some were denied ben- U.S. Department of Labor is scheduled to reefits, and others may have gone back to work. lease state-specific April rates soon.

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Controlled Fluidics reverse-engineers its way into the PPE market When it comes to shifting gears, Controlled Fluidics, a Milford-based plastics manufacturer, certainly knows how to do it.

The company, which specializes in manufacturing precision manifolds and plastic components, was recently recruited by the Elliot Hospital in Manchester to help it meet a pressing need for face shields for its healthcare workers.

“I received a call from a surgeon from Elliot Hospital in Manchester,” said Tom Rohlfs, president and principal engineer of Controlled Fluidics. “He desperately needed face shields and wanted to know if we could manufacture them.”

The shields are part of positive pressure face masks which are used by healthcare workers primarily when intubating a patient when placing them on a respirator. The intubation procedure presents one of the greatest risks of infection for any procedure that healthcare workers routinely perform, Rohlfs was told.

The face mask assembly has a removable shield that can be discarded after every patient, preventing contamination and protecting healthcare workers’ well-being.

The emergency room physician told Rohlfs he was down to his last two face shields and had been unable to obtain replacements be-

cause of a nationwide shortage of personal protective equipment.

“I drove to his house and picked up one of his two face shields,” Rohlfs says. “My team and I examined it and reverse-engineered it.

Within 24 hours, we had a prototype face mask for him. He approved the prototype and ordered 300 of them for the hospital.”

But, after fulfilling the order, Rohlfs discovered that he had a lot of extra material left over, so he advertised more shields for sale to medical workers. The response was tremendous, he said.

Controlled Fluidics was soon receiving calls from all over the U.S. Orders ranged from one shield for an individual nurse or doctor to 10 shields for a clinic to 2,000 for the HMO giant Kaiser Permanente.

In the meantime, the company is also busy making parts for respirator machines.

Rohlfs said Controlled Fluidics has been making parts for medical equipment for a long time, but the company has never experienced such demand.

“One client just placed an order that is five times larger than the biggest order we’ve ever gotten, and they keep calling because they need the parts right away. We’re making them as fast as we can.”

— JEFF FEINGOLD

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

THE BOTTOM LINE WARMER WINTER, CORONAVIRUS HIT UNITIL’S EARNINGS

Climate change hurt Unitil Corp. more than the coronavirus in the first quarter that ended March 31.

Even though the Hampton-based utility, which serves customers in New Hampshire, Maine and parts of Massachusetts had more than 1,000 new gas customers, gas revenue dropped nearly 19% to $70.2 million. The company also lost $4.8 million in electricity sales, which are less affected by the weather, but that was also because of customers’ energy savings measures.

All told, Unitil’s net income fell to $15.2 million ($1.02 a share) in the first quarter, 43% lower than the $26.6 million reported in the first quarter of 2019.

Last year’s $9.8 million gain from the sell-off of its Usource subsidiary explains most of that change, but the warmer weather accounted for $3.1 million of the decrease.

So far, the earnings impact of the virus, which really struck the economy in the last few weeks of March, was to set

aside $600,000 for bad debt, since the company put a halt to disconnections.

The company also created a fund to assist residential customers who suffered Covid-19 related job loss or reduced wages.

BOTTOMLINE POSTS ANOTHER LOSS, BUT SUBSCRIPTION REVENUE KEEPS RISING

The coronavirus might have hurt Bottomline Technologies in the quarter ending March 31, and perhaps the current quarter as well. But it should help in the long run, the company says, and in the meantime, the Portsmouthbased financial technology company gave away a technology platform to help banks process Paycheck Protection Program loans. Some 1,800 businesses utilized it to obtain forgivable loans of $120 million.

As for the company, it reported revenue of $111.7 million for the third quarter of the fiscal year, resulting in a net loss of $7.5 million or 18 cents a share, al-

though $6 million of that loss had to do with negative provision of income taxes.

The company maintains that it would have $11.5 million in core income if it didn’t have to count various intangibles, such as $9.3 million in stock-based compensation for its top executives.

But what the company would really like to stress was that subscription revenue went up 16% compared to the same quarter last year to $87.5 million, encompassing 78% of revenue, seven percentage points higher compared to where it was last year.

Still, the company expects a $2 million to $4 million hit on revenue next quarter that could hurt the Bottomline’s bottom line by $1 million or $2 million.

RUGER SAW REVENUE JUMP AS CORONAVIRUS ORDERS GREW When there is a public health crisis and an economic collapse, a lot of people go out to buy a gun. That appears to have contributed to Sturm, Ruger & Co.’s strong first quarter.

Gun sales declined noticeably last year, but they rose in the first quarter, especially in mid-March when states of emergency were declared by governors across the country, shutting down many retail operations. But most of those orders exempted gun shops as essential.

The Connecticut-based Ruger, which has a large manufacturing operation in Newport, reported sales of $123.6 million, an increase of about 7.8%, over the same quarter in 2019, leading to net income of $14.3 million (87 cents a diluted share) — a $2.3 million increase, or nearly 20%, according to May 6 financial filings.

The surge was so strong it was comparable to the run on guns seen in previous election cycles, when fears spread that legislation might affect gun rights.

“Obviously, a change in the political spectrum can be anticipated, and that can drive some changes, but that was not as rapid and as sudden as we saw in the middle of March,” said Ruger CEO Christopher Killoy, according to a company-released transcript of an earnings call. “The other obvious difference is with the Covid-19 pandemic in our communities, we have to be extraordinarily careful in how we take care of our employees, how we manage production and how we ramp up production.“

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Up to the coronavirus challenge

NH businesses, organizations do their part to support the community Mobile Food Pantry at NHMS provides food for local families in need

Several cars lined up to receive pre-packaged boxes of food provided by the New Hampshire Food Bank and New Hampshire Army National Guard during a mobile food pantry at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on May 9.

The New Hampshire Food Bank, with the help of the New Hampshire Army National Guard, brought a mobile food pantry to New Hampshire Motor Speedway on May 9, providing nearly nine tons of food to nearly 1,200 people in Loudon, Concord, Laconia, Belmont and the surrounding areas.

The drive-thru style of the pantry allowed 334 families to remain in their vehicles, pop open their trunk, make a pit stop at three stations — perishables, nonperishables and meats — and then take off with about 52 pounds of food. The boxes contained a variety of food such as yogurt smoothies and dip, milk, eggs, hot dogs, frozen soup, several cans of fruits and vegetables, pasta, rice and macaroni and cheese, plus fresh produce including onions, carrots, apples, oranges, potatoes and lettuce.

“We’re all in this together, and one thing we have an abundance of here at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is space,” said David McGrath, executive vice president and general manager of New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

“When the New Hampshire Food Bank and New Hampshire Army National Guard pitched the idea of bringing their Mobile Food Pantry to Loudon, we jumped at the chance to offer space on our property to help our community.”

Eighteen members of the New Hampshire Army National Guard are on orders to assist the New Hampshire Food Bank through the end of May, and the Mobile Food Pantry is their main focus. They prepare for 1,000 families to be served each time.

Besides Loudon, the New Hampshire Food Bank has so far brought the mobile food pantry to Gorham, Colebrook and Plymouth.

Franklin Savings donates $15,000 to NH Nonprofit Response Fund Franklin Savings Bank has purchased $15,000 in Community Development Finance Authority tax credits to support the New Hampshire Nonprofit Response Fund. Supported in part by contributions from the business community in exchange for tax credits and loans from the CDFA and Business Finance Authority, the fund will provide nonprofit organizations critical resources of up to $100,000 to meet the needs of the state’s most vulnerable residents, as well as individuals serving on the front lines during the coronavirus pandemic.

Eligible organizations may apply for a minimum of $2,500 up to a maximum of $100,000 in funding. Loans can be used towards working capital, equipment purchases, program expenses and other eligible expenses. For further details, visit nhcdfa.org.

Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation adds to its Covid-19 Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation has announced an additional $5 million philanthropic investment to help address the impact of Covid-19 in the communities it serves.

The additional money means annual community support from the foundation is expected to reach $14 million, an all-time high, by the end of 2020.

The $5 million in funds will support organizations providing support to emergency child care centers, family child care centers, families with young children in need of support and child care professionals themselves as well as immigrants, refugees and asylum-seekers, individuals and families who are homeless, victims of domestic violence, elders, and people with mental and cognitive health challenges.

Chase Home receives $5,000 Express Grant The Chase Home in Portsmouth recently received an unrestricted $5,000 Express Grant from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation to help meet needs related to Covid-19.

Chase Home, one of the oldest nonprofits in New Hampshire, serves more than 140 at-risk youth annually statewide through prevention, early intervention, residential and community-based programs.

Prototek builds emergency ventilator

Fedora Manufacturing in South Acworth is manufacturing EarSavers for frontline workers. The plastic straps are designed to make wearing a mask for several hours a day more comfortable. While the EarSavers are for sale, Fedora says it has so far donated a thousand of them to healthcare workers and others. For more information, visit save-ears.com

Citizens donates $180,000 to small businesses in NH, Vermont Citizens Bank has provided 12 small businesses in New Hampshire and Vermont with $15,000 grants as part of its Small Business Recovery grant program. These direct grants are being issued to Citizens small business customers to help them continue operating and recover from adverse conditions brought on by the pandemic.

Receiving the grants were: Bagelsplus; Better Business …

Better Foods Inc., Brookside Market and Deli, Clover Gift Shop, Gray Consulting and Therapy LLC, LONDONMiddlebury LLC, Media Power Youth, Prime Lifetime Services, Think Design, Vermont Ride Network Holdings Inc., Widmer & Davis Artisan Distilleries LLC, and Wristies.

Newburyport Bank donates to emergency funds The Newburyport Bank Charitable Foundation has donated $2,500 each to the Strafford County and Rockingham County Coronavirus Emergency Response Funds. The emergency funds are designed to provide assistance to those in the counties affected by the Covid-19 crisis by assisting with food, housing, senior assistance and homeless outreach services.

Pike aids LRGH

The Contoocook-based New Hampshire division of Prototek Rapid Prototyping, Sheet Metal and Machining was part of a group of healthcare and technology organizations that developed and built the Rise Emergency Ventilator for Meter, an industrial hardware startup with offices in Boston and San Francisco.

The ventilator, designed to be affordably produced at high volumes to help meet current and future critical demands, is under review for a Food and Drug Administration emergency-use authorization during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The team manufactured and delivered 350 units and 6,300 parts for the ventilator in five days, said PJ Swett, Prototek’s vice president of operations. “Our entire Prototek team is proud to see the results of our work come together. Prototek is known for our rapid turnaround and ability to produce challenging, precision parts for challenging applications. But knowing the urgency of getting affordable ventilators out into the field added a sense of urgency for our team.”

Tilton-based Pike Industries Inc., recently donated aggregate materials to Lakes Region General Hospital in support of the hospital as it deals with the coronavirus pandemic.

“We produce construction aggregates, and this is just a small way that we can show our support to our neighbors at LRGH,” said Pike President Barry Duffy.

Polaris Direct launches the “Care Mail Challenge” Polaris Direct LLC, Hooksett, has launched the “Care Mail Challenge,” an easy way to stay connected during this unsettling time. Visitors to the Care Mail Challenge website can download cards, then print and mail them.

“A simple card or letter with a heartfelt sentiment can go a long way to boost the spirit of someone you care about,” said Judith Maloy, CEO of Polaris Direct. “We wanted to use our expertise to bring something positive to the community and also support our partners at the USPS.” She said the challenge had such a positive response, it was expanded to include a Mother’s Day card and set of customizable cards. “For the cost of a stamp you can brighten someone’s day and support the USPS,” said Maloy.

For more information on Care Mail, visit polarisdirect.net.

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

Life after Labor Day

Imagining how we’ll do business in New Hampshire in the fall I do not pretend to be a futurist. At the same time, I’d like to avoid harping on our current state and instead put that energy into planning for the future — a future that will be different on how we connect and communicate.

I’ve picked right after Labor Day as a pivotal date for a reason: It’s not too far off and it’s when the business community often more fully restarts after summer, schools reopen and we have one last long weekend of barbeques, beverages and maybe even some elbow bumps.

Let’s imagine that July flew by like it always does in New Hampshire, and we spent the month admiring and enjoying the things we love. But it was obviously different from summers in the past. While

BY MATT COOKSON

Effective Communication most of society as we know opened back up, residual effects lingered. A large number of people were still out of work and many storefronts remained closed.

We quickly got used to masks, six feet of separation, one-way grocery aisles and endless Zoom meetings in the spring.

Unwinding is a bit harder and sensitivities to close contact and crowds remain for many.

As business owners, many of us spent the summer thinking about the changes we’ll be implementing in our business models and business practices come September. Others wondered what schools and colleges would look like under the new norm and how this could impact schedules, child care and other key planning issues we may have not previously considered.

The September and fall business calendar is different. Gone for now are the big conferences and events, with packed crowds and buffets. Speaking of buffets (and handshakes as well), they may never come back. Zoom meetings and online gatherings remain popular — a decent replacement for some in-person meetings, but lacking in the personal touches that come from connecting face-to-face.

Lunch and coffee meetings are back

with a vengeance and a hunger to support local eateries as we crave that personal contact that was lacking for months.

Many also relish the office and colleagues, while others found working from home to be surprisingly effective. Some companies that resisted having employees work from home have changed their policies and developed remote learning systems.

Remote working and learning will probably be the most significant changes that remain in place.

Economically, it’s rocky for many, and we all know businesses that had to downsize, refocus and close. We’re more aware of community businesses now and have an even stronger desire to create local partnerships to support our economy. At the same time, we’re cautious, especially with money and spending. Cash proved itself to be king during the peak of the crisis and spending remains low. Business travel is still well off its peak as employers appreciate the cost savings, and employees are still leery to fly, even with the removal of middle seats and stench of disinfectants.

From a communications perspective, we adapted. Phones — often looked at as the next piece of technology in the office to join fax machines as the latest victim of technological change — are ringing again and it’s people you know touching base.

E-mail remains the lifeblood of communications and social media is abuzz. But advice webinars are now tiresome. We’re done rehashing the past several months and dwelling on the lingering impacts. We even have a presidential election coming that fell to the back burner for some time.

We learned a few things as well. We learned resiliency. We learned humility.

We learned communications etiquette.

Those companies that email-marketed to us incessantly in April have received the unsubscribe notice. And those colleagues who reached out to say hi and check in are now on the lunch and coffee calendar.

Our new norm is an old norm and we’ll mostly do business the old way. We connect with the people that matter most, we relish personal contact and get-togethers we may have taken for granted, and we do business with those who stayed with us through hard times and even went the extra mile. And perhaps we’ll continue to take walks in the neighborhood, go hiking, see neighbors and cherish the little things we never thought we’d lose. That’s a fall worth looking forward to.

Matt Cookson is president and CEO of Cookson Communications in Manchester.

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COVER STORY

NORTH COUNTRY

LAKES REGION

As NH slowly emerges from shutdown, not every business and not all customers are ready to follow

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A man walks past empty parking spaces while visiting the Mall of New Hampshire in Manchester on May 11, the first day some New Hampshire retail locations, including larger shopping plazas, reopened. (AP Photo/ Charles Krupa)

If you let them, will they reopen?

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BY BOB SANDERS

N

ew Hampshire and the nation have never had the economy shut down so suddenly. And they have never tried to reopen it once it did, with the threat of a continuing pandemic dangling over each move.

The pressure to open from cash-strapped businesses and cabin-fevered consumers is immense, despite the federal government flooding the state with billions of dollars in economic aid and despite a still-rising coronavirus caseload and death toll — a death toll that, in mid-May (only two months after the shutdown), stood at nearly half the number of opioid-related fatalities recorded in all of 2019.

Of course, testing has risen dramatically, and the percentage of those testing positive has declined from 10% at the beginning of May to under 5% by the middle of the month.

Yet, even as New Hampshire took its first steps — “not big steps but small steps” as Gov. Chris Sununu put it — in allowing some businesses to open their doors, not every business is ready to, and not many customers are running through them, even with their masks on.

“We are really bipolar on this reopening,” said economist Russ Thibeault, president of Applied Economic Research. “We are dying to get out, but afraid to get sick.”

After all, the very order to reopen the economy is called Stay at Home 2.0. How well will business do, if everyone actually did stay at home?

The New Hampshire economy started tentatively rebooting during the first week of May, when Sununu’s reopening order began with input from his hand-picked Economic Reopening Task Force.

But that first week was more about placing restrictions on what was already open — essential businesses like manufacturing — or on what would have opened anyway,

like campgrounds and state parks. The order did lift restrictions on “time-sensitive” healthcare services.

Cautious hospitals But most hospitals geared up cautiously, not just because of concerns of spreading the virus but of insuring they had the resources to be able to treat it.

This was especially true of Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, which as of May 13 was treating 30 confirmed coronavirus patients — the most in the state — 47 if you count those with symptoms who were awaiting testing. It couldn’t open an intensive care unit because of this, which is why it can only “turn the dimmer switch ever so slightly each week,” said Alex Walker, CMC’s executive vice president and chief executive operating officer.

The number of elective procedures “fell off the cliff” after March 5, he said, and the hospital is now losing about $20 million. It’s true there has been a lot of federal aid announced for the hospitals, but so far, CMC has only seen about $8.5 million of that “without strings attached,” not even covering March’s losses. The hospital didn’t qualify for federal hot spot funding reserved for urban centers like New York and Boston, nor rural hospital funding because it was too urban, he said.

“We don’t get a nickel,” he said. “How crazy is that?”

Slowly bringing back some elective procedure “will certainly help offset some of the losses we were sustaining [but] our financial situation is very, very concerning.”

Medical offices had a similar experience.

Concord Eye Center, for instance, lost about half of its business and had to furlough half the staff when it stopped offering routine care, but it is now up to 75% of business, bringing back services like cataract surgery.

Thanks to the federal Paycheck Protection Program, it will be able to keep going until June, “but we really need to see real money hit the books in July,” said Concord Eye President Dr. Eliot Foley.

‘Living in different times’ The week of May 11 was the first real week of reopening, with limited OKs given to retail stores, hair salons, drive-in theaters and golf courses.

Though the golf course parking lots were full, many cars were not empty. Customers had to sit in them to wait for their tee time, now stretched to 12 minutes between times from the previous eight.

Cosmetology Association, representing the 30,000 state licensees, had argued that salons should be reopened, “because people are getting desperate. Everybody is looking a bit shaggy.” And while reopening guidelines might be strict, “that’s how it works, we are living in different times.”

When the guidelines came out, a number of salons balked, either saying that it was still unsafe or they couldn’t make money on services limited to haircuts and single color touch-ups.

But the demand was there. David Bellman, owner of Bellman Jewelers in Manchester, had opened up a penthouse barber shop upstairs from his Elm Street storefront a few

Slowly bringing back some elective procedures ‘will certainly help offset some of the losses we were sustaining,’ but, Alex Walker, executive vice president of Catholic Center, says the Manchester hospital’s ‘financial situation is very, very concerning.’

“It was so slow motion,” complained Peter Harrity, owner of the Candia Woods Golf Links and The Oaks Golf Course. “We are busy as we can be at 68%.”

Can the courses make money under these conditions?

“Of course not,” he said. “We are underwater every day.”

Hairdressers are another mixed bag.

Pam New, president of the New Hampshire

years back, and when it announced reopening, “you could watch the reservations fill up online, booked solid all week. They were going to be crazy busy.”

Bellman wished they were lining up outside his store as well, but pent-up demand for wedding rings isn’t as great. Bellman’s never fully closed. Since the store buys jewelry as well as sells it, it has a pawnbroker’s license, and pawnbrokers are deemed es-

>

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25%

New Hampshire’s Covid-19 timeline

3-day average % positive Covid-19 test results Unemployment rate

March 13: State of emergency

Important events (see list)

March 16: Ban on gatherings of more than 50 closes bars, restaurants.

20%

March 23: First Covid death. Ban on gatherings of more than 10.

15%

March 26: Stay-at-home order closes nonessential businesses.

10%

April 6:

Hotels restricted to only essential personnel.

May 1:

State at Home 2.0. Healthcare providers reopen for elective time-sensitive procedures.

May 11:

Retail, cosmetologists, golf and drive-ins reopened.

May 18:

Restaurants reopened for outdoor seating.

FROM PAGE 10 sential, but despite being featured in a Union Leader article over the weekend before reopening, the first day was slow.

‘Some will not shop’ A majority of retail stores did reopen, but a good many have remained closed to inside traffic, still just offering pickup and curbside delivery, said Nancy Kyle, president of the New Hampshire Retail Association. “I think it is hard for retailers, because some will not shop.”

Most of the malls are open. In a letter to the governor, Simon Property Group laid out guidelines for the four malls it operates in

able as what it should be.”

Restaurants’ concerns If the pandemic has hit retail hard, it has hit the hospitality industry harder.

Restaurants have been able to offer takeout and delivery and curbside pickup, but the industry has still lost 40,000 jobs since the middle of March. It also lost $830 million in sales, said Mike Somers, CEO of the New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association.

Restaurants were allowed to open for outdoor dining on May 18, but Somers estimated that only 40% of eateries would be able to take advantage of it.

‘I think they will come,’ said Priscilla Lane-Rondeau, owner of the 900 Degrees restaurant in Manchester.

‘There are people with high risk who will have to take care of themselves, but for many people, they are ready.

They are ready.’ (Manchester Ink Link photo) the state, promising to control traffic to one person for every 50 square feet of space.

But, according to the New Hampshire Union Leader, only half of the stores at the Mall at Rockingham Park were opened up during the first week.

“It was a bit of a soft rollout,” reported Eric Slaughenhaupt, owner of Seasonal Specialty Stores, a pool supplies and outdoor furniture store in Amherst. It seemed that it had more business online, from people getting their pools ready for their staycation, he said. Before they could come into the store to shop, “the phones were berserk,” he said.

But the Toadstool Bookshops in Peterborough, Keene and Nashua are going to stick with mail order and online sales for now.

“We have thousands of books and we don’t know who is touching what,” said owner Willard Williams. If you are concerned about the person next to you, browsing isn’t as enjoy-

“A lot of them don’t have access to outside seating, and for others it doesn’t make economic sense,” said Somers.

But many will give it a try. 900 Degrees in Manchester planned to use its existing covered deck as well as set up 10 more tables in the parking lot.

“This is all new to us,” said Priscilla LaneRondeau, adding that sales fell 80% when the restaurant was limited to takeout and curbside pickup. Still, with the help of a PPP loan, she was able to keep on 14 staff members. Now she’ll be able to call in another 10, she said.

“I think they will come,” she said of customers. “There are people with high risk who will have to take care of themselves, but for many people, they are ready. They are ready.”

Great NH Restaurants plans to double outdoor seating at its 10 T-Bones, CJ’s, Cactus Jack’s and The Copper Door restaurants.

May 18

May 11

May 1 May 2

Apr. 23

Apr. 17

Apr. 10

Apr. 6

Mar. 26

Mar. 23

Mar. 16

Mar. 13

Mar. 5

5%

Theoretically, that would mean almost 75% of the capacity of the chain’s indoor dining seating, but in reality. “There is no playbook,” said owner Tom Boucher. “We are making up the rules as we go. Tents in the parking lot?

There is nothing we can compare this to.”

The tables — spaced seven feet apart and 14 feet on the aisles — will seat six, but many won’t be full. And, tents or no, Boucher said he is not going to require his wait staff to work in the pouring rain. Thus, the decision to call staff will change day to day depending on “sophisticated weather apps,” he said.

The good news is that almost all of his workers are willing to come back, despite the option of generous unemployment benefits.

“They are missing the work. Hopefully, the guests will be able to see the smile behind those masks in their eyes,” he said.

His restaurants have been losing about $100,000 a week with takeout and delivery only, he said. With outdoor-only dining, he added, “we are still going to lose money, but I have no idea how much. That is the scariest part of this.”

Indeed, even as opening day approached, many restaurants in New Hampshire were still obtaining permits from municipalities to expand their outdoor seating. Some, like Concord, were considering closing Main Street, but hadn’t decided by opening day.

Manchester allowed restaurants to set up tables in front of neighboring stores, with permission of the neighbors.

“We haven’t gotten approval from anyone yet,” said Richard French, CEO of the Works Café, which has locations in Concord, Keene and Durham, at a Business and Industry Association webinar presented on the Friday before the reopening.

Meanwhile, Somers is already asking the Governor’s Economic Reopening Task Force to allow indoor seating for on June 1.

‘As social distancing allows’ The task force has recommended that lodging facilities be allowed to open on May 22, the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. The task force recommended restricting indoor room access to no more than 50% occupancy, but there would be no limits on hotels with outdoor access, or inns with 10 or fewer rooms.

The task also recommended guidelines, but no date, to reopen gyms, many of which

are on the “verge of bankruptcy,” according to Michael Benton, CEO of Genavix Corp., a national chain as well as the owner of three fitness centers in New Hampshire, in a presentation before the task force.

The task force is recommending allowing them to operate at half occupancy, or “as social distancing allows.” It also passed guidelines to allow many outdoor attractions, audience-free arts performances, massage therapists and equestrian facilities, but they were awaiting the governor’s go-ahead.

Meanwhile, industry after industry continues to make their case before the reopening task force.

“I drove by the Amherst Walmart and there were at least 1,000 cars in the parking lot.

With respect, what would be different about allowing me to host an event with proper safety guidelines in place?” asked Amy LaBelle of LaBelle Winery in Amherst, speaking on behalf of 300 event venues in the state.

Event facilities should be able to open under the same conditions as outdoor restaurants, she said. “There is no difference between outdoor restaurant dining and outdoor event dining,” she said. “Why take away a bride’s ability to enjoy her wedding day entirely?”

Similarly, Larry Allen, owner of NH Tattoo in Merrimack, asked that the 600 body artists in New Hampshire be allowed to once again offer their services. They serve far fewer people than hair salons, more like 10 a week rather than dozens a day. True, they are dealing with bodily fluids, but Covid-19 is a respiratory disease, he said.

Besides, as a result of the shutdown of legitimate businesses, some people are going underground, attending do-it-yourself “kitchen parties” with the possibility of infection or the wrong type of ink, “that if you put into your body, bad things can happen.”

The tattoo industry was shut down just as it was coming out of its slow season but, as independent contractors, few could get access to government aid.

“Most of us are worried about closing our doors permanently. We are running out of money. We had to dip into our savings. Microbusinesses like ours are desperate. It is important for us to return to work as soon as possible because we are in dire need,” he pleaded.

Bob Sanders can be reached at bsanders@nhbr.com.

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The benefits of Covid-19

Some changes to lifestyles, business operations could have long-term rewards

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Covid-19 is a monumental disaster, yielding untimely deaths and untold misery for millions around the world. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. But trying to look on the bright side, it may have permanently changed our lifestyles and business operations in ways we’ve resisted, and some of these could be quite beneficial.

For instance, many managers have been leery to allow employees to work from home. The crisis forced the issue, and many are realizing that employees in some jobs can be more productive that way. Few things are more satisfying than avoiding a long commute. They begin work without any opportunity to develop road rage and often invest some of their former commuting time on the job.

In functions where working off-site is practical, another benefit is the reduction of necessary office space. Admittedly, this wouldn’t be good for the commercial real estate market, but it could substantially reduce a company’s overhead burden. In many cases, it’s not all or nothing. Some combination of on-site activity may still be required, yet the right mixture of the two can yield improved business results with almost no investment.

Have you noticed the lack of traffic during the crisis? Even commuting into Boston suddenly became reasonable. If working from home takes off, it could be a tremendous way to solve our dire congestion problems. And of course, air pollution has dropped substantially as well.

Fuel prices continue to decline, as there’s a tremendous oil glut. No doubt, the oil industry isn’t happy, but there are numerous benefits if we can learn to travel less. Our cars will last longer, and our weekly costs will drop. Don’t worry, the oil industry will learn to adjust to the new reality. Real competition for the first time in decades could encourage efficiencies from which we’ll all benefit.

The airlines have seen their passengers evaporate. I hope some senior airline executives can search their distant memories for how it used to be back in the good old days when they actually tried to treat passengers like real people.

If they’d like to rebuild their markets, they might consider really cleaning their planes. Take a bunch of seats out, so passengers can actually have something called leg room. Remember, if you pack them like sardines, the sardines don’t willingly get in the can, and they would

never pay for the “privilege.” And yes, get rid of those ridiculous fees for everything from changing a flight to getting on with a little bit of luggage.

Schools were closed and teachers scrambled to convert their classes to online learning. Snow days will never be the same. Kids can safely stay home and continue learning without missing a beat. Unfortunately, they’re not all participating. I heard of one teacher who only has four of her 26 students engaged. That’s not what we want to hear, so hopefully, she’ll be able to get most, if not all, of them into the game.

I know it’s not the same as being on campus, but look at how much cheaper online learning is. Room and board is no trivial expense. If you can dispense with the freedom of living away from home, you could actually graduate without a student loan almost tantamount to the mortgage on a house you don’t have.

Even before the virus, many colleges

BY RON BOURQUE

Improving Performance and universities were struggling to justify their existence. What happens when students graduate with a hallowed degree, but can’t get a job? It’s really tough to pay off those loans while working in retail or flipping burgers. If your parents have deep pockets, not to worry.

If not, online learning is something to consider.

At this point, we can’t wait for the crisis to end to become productive again.

Throughout history, the organizations that survive and even thrive are those most able to adapt to changing realities, and like it or not, these realities are likely to be with us for a while.

It may not be easy, but finding ways to capitalize on them may be just what your business needs to thrive again.

Ronald J. Bourque, a consultant and speaker from Salem, has had engagements throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. He can be reached at 603898-1871 or RonBourque3@gmail.com.

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Giving strategies to help NH through the crisis

IP

W

N DA TIO N

OU

Giving

EF

SH

Nonprofits that provide services to our most vulnerable neighbors are seeing a huge increase in demand, while most are also seeing decreases in revenue. The

NER

Give directly to New Hampshire’s nonprofit organizations

A PART

The Covid-19 pandemic is testing our communities in ways that are drawing apt comparisons to World War II. New Hampshire, which relies heavily on the nonprofit sector for an array of critical services, is going to need as many people as are able to rally around those organizations — as they distribute food, care for elders, shelter victims of violence, provide child care for emergency workers, report on critical public health information — and as they enhance the quality of life for everyone in New Hampshire: conserving open space, connecting us with the arts and humanities, securing our access to local food and so much more.

At the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, we are often asked about how and where to give during this time of urgent need and uncertainty. Here are some ways you can rally to help our communities through this crisis.

New Hampshire Food Bank and food taxpayers can now deduct up to $300 in pantries all across the state are facing a cash contributions to nonprofits in 2020, surge in need as people have lost em- regardless of whether they itemize deployment. More people are requesting ductions or take the standard deduction.

Meals on Wheels. And the organizations Participate in NH Gives are having to adapt and innovate to conNH Gives (nhgives.org) is a 24-hour tinue to safely feed people, for instance, with boxes packed that will feed a fam- online fundraising event to support New Hampshire nonprofits, taking ily for a week, delivered to the place this year on June 9-10. trunk of a car.

An initiative of the New Organizations that proHampshire Center for vide shelter for homeless Nonprofits, NH Gives families and individuhas raised $1.5 milals are working hard lion for organizations to safely continue to across the state since provide those services.

GREATER Many nonprofit childit was launched in 2016. care centers have closed, Browse the site to learn IT H but others are staying about participating New ITA TH R E NE HA W H A MP S HIRE C open to provide care for the Hampshire nonprofits and children of essential workers. join with thousands of other Nonprofits have had to cancel spring Granite Staters to support the orgafund-raising events — on which they rely nizations that have always been there for for significant revenue — and many are us when we needed them most. (See ad laying off staff. Arts organizations that de- on this issue’s back cover). pend on ticket sales are hurting.

Nonprofits need support immediately, Give to a United Way fund or and will continue to need support in the other Covid-19 response fund Granite United Way, United Way of months and years to come. Most organizations have the option to donate online. Greater Nashua, United Way of the GreatUnder the newly passed CARES Act, all er Seacoast and Monadnock United Way BL

BY LAURA RAUSCHER

have all established relief funds specific to this crisis. The funds are directing resources to community nonprofits that are providing critical services, meeting basic needs of people in our communities and supplying emergency financial relief to families. One hundred percent of donations to these funds go directly to help those in need. Visit uwnh.org to give.

The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation has established the Community Crisis Action Fund to support New Hampshire communities now and as we rebuild from the immediate effects of this crisis. The foundation is making immediate unrestricted grants to reduce pain and hardship for our most vulnerable neighbors and to reduce the longer-term impact of Covid-19 on critical systems such as healthcare, emergency response, child care and food security. The foundation is also supporting local emergency funds established by United Ways and others.

Every penny donated into this fund will go to community nonprofits. Visit nhcf. org to give.

Laura Rauscher, director of development and philanthropy services at the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, can be reached at 1-800-464-6641 ext.

274 or Laura.Rauscher@nhcf.org.

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Other irregular commencements Previous classes have faced uncertain or interrupted commencements too One of the funniest and on-point summaries of the first five months of the year was recently heard on the radio: “OK 2020, you’re done. Pack up and get out of town.” I am sure most of us would be willing to start a new year or reset this one. We cannot.

There has been much sympathizing with members of the class of 2020, whether high school or college, who have to face the end of an important part of their education without the traditional trappings and attendant rites of passage. We all can feel for the graduates. In fact, on a couple of occasions, I have seen graduates, in cap and gown, standing by the signs at campus entrances at Southern New Hampshire University and Colby-Sawyer College having their graduation pictures taken by parents or friends, and it is touching.

There has been a lot of creative thinking about alternatives. Concord’s interim superintendent of schools, Frank Bass, has announced an in-person ceremony for Concord High School in August. Some districts have plans to have commencement at drivein movie theaters. Some plan online or Zoom commencements. Others hope to combine this year’s ceremonies with those for the class of 2021.

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Of more concern for many high school seniors is what college will look like in the fall, and all colleges and universities are uncertain about how many deposits they will get, which ones will produce actual students, how opening will look and how much online instruction will be required.

Most colleges face practical problems of how to survive financially if the entering class does not show up, or cannot show up.

Most have announced tentative plans to reopen with on-campus learning. SNHU has announced an innovative plan for incoming students with online instruction and no initial tuition charge.

All of this brings to mind other classes that faced uncertain or interrupted commencements and survived. For this writer, a member of the class of 1970 at the University of New Hampshire, it brings memories of that spring, when student strikes swept the nation after the invasion of Cambodia during the Vietnam War, the killing of students at Kent State College in Ohio by the National Guard, and students attempted to, and in many cases did, shut down campus life.

In Durham, classes were canceled or made optional, exams were optional and many “teach-ins” replaced normal classes.

Whether there would be a commencement ceremony was debated and, eventually, it took place in Snively Arena with some modifications, such as many wearing armbands symbolizing sympathy with the student strike, including commencement speaker

Edmund Muskie, the Maine senator and potential presidential candidate.

This year, 50 years later, a committee of class members, under class president and Secretary of State William Gardner, has worked for several years to plan a 50-year reunion, only to have it postponed to next June, due to the pandemic. We shall survive this, too.

Many other classes have faced similar situations.

My parents’ UNH classes of 1942 and 1943 graduated in the face of the majority of the male students, as well as some of the women, going off to war immediately after graduation. Classes during the Great Depression faced uncertain job prospects, like many today.

BY BRAD COOK

Cook on Concord For some, cancellation of observations is more poignant. For example, for the dwindling number of members of the college class of 1945. I have one friend in the Cornell class of 1945, the indomitable Maxine Morse — cancellation of her 75th reunion may mark the last chance the remaining members of her class can connect in person. This is sad for them, but they have survived so much and gained perspective that this is only a disappointment.

On the bright side, tedious commencement addresses will be avoided, disruptive throwing of beach balls or taped messages on mortar boards missed, and a host of young men will avoid the perspiration experienced in anticipating pinning a corsage on a date’s dress, if they do that anymore.

In all seriousness, for most of us, the memories of high school or college that matter are the people we met, grew up and matured with, the relationships which resulted and, of course, what we learned in school. For all those who feel natural disappointment in the canceled or changed circumstances of the 2020 end of school and events, the disappointment will diminish and the important memories survive.

Brad Cook is a Manchester attorney. The views expressed in this column are his own. He can be reached at bradfordcook01@gmail.com.

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FROM PAGE 1

Empower Success Corps’ retired execs offer expert guidance FROM PAGE 1 grounds include governance, finance, ad- Help for a library Center for Nonprofits found that 85% of ministration, marketing and communications In New Hampshire, ESC-NNE has conthese organizations are suffering financial — often work in teams, particularly when as- tributed to strategic, business or marketing hardships and two-thirds have suspended sisting with strategic planning processes. plans for the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery “I call it tag-team wrestling,” said Denise or reduced services.

Center in Concord, Seacoast Science CenLynn Post, director of ESC-NNE, echoed Boyd, a newcomer to consulting after 25 ter in Rye, NH Alcohol and Drug Counselors Geiger, saying that the Covid-19 outbreak years in corporate marketing and communi- Association in Concord, White Horse Addichas forced “major disruptions” on most cations. She said she prized “the opportunity tion Center in Center Ossipee, the Visiting nonprofits as pressure on their financial re- to work with veterans and the camaraderie Nurse Association for NH and VT of White with teamwork.” sources mounted whileLAKES demand for that comes NASHUA REGION REGION NORTH have COUNTRY River Junction, Vt., the Ausbon Sargent Land Woodard stressed the importance of their services has grown.

Preservation Trust in New London, the Ports“We have assembled a team of seven fi- sound governance, particularly ensuring that mouth Housing Authority and White Birch nancial consultants and reached out to non- the respective roles and responsibilities of Community Center in Henniker. profits on a pro bono basis to explain the re- the board and management are clearly deCurrently, teams are working with four difsources and options available to them from lineated and respected. ferent organizations, including one in the “Board members must understand the the federal stimulus packages,” she said. midst of launching a new project.

TOP ROW: BUSINESS TECH, ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, HOSPITALS, BANKING, PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY boundaries and avoid micromanaging,” he Post anticipated that as the crisis eases and SECOND ROW: FEATURE STORY AND JUMPS, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, OPINIONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT TOWN Mindy Atwood is director of the Abbott said, “and they must be guided by the mistheTHIRD economy recovers, will beROW: REAL ESTATE nonprofits + CONSTRUCTION, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, TOURISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE in ONLINE Library Sunapee, which five years ago sionCALENDAR, of the organization ginFORTH taking stock and considering measures ROW: AREA GRAPHICS, another TOURISM choice, LAST WORDrather than their per- moved into a new 7,200-square-foot buildto restore impaired finances as well as tailor sonal agendas.” ing after raising nearly two-thirds of the $2.7 “It’s a wonderful opportunity to share operations to changed circumstances. At million cost of the project from donations. the same time, she said, some organizations knowledge and expertise,” said Rebecca She said that pursuing the building project, have taken the crisis as “a good time to take a Hutchinson, whose 40 years of shuttling adapting to a new home and managing rapdeep breath, reassess and reset” by develop- between the for-profit and nonprofit sec- id growth consumed the attention and enering strategic plans, sharpening governance tors include 20 years in community health- gy of the board, which has since undergone practices and strengthening financial man- care, much of it working with senior citizens. a complete turnover in membership.

“What I can offer,” she said, “is organizational agement as well as launch new projects.

The population of Sunapee is about 3,600 experience and skill.” most of the year, “but more than doubles Like Woodard, she highlighted the imporWorking in teams in the summer,” she said, “and last year our tance of recruiting and developing a talented ESC-NNE has a stable of about 30 vol- board with a wide range of skills and close circulation was 59,000 items and we had unteer consultants and is also able to draw ties to the community. “That is where ESC 32,000 visitors.”

Atwood said that the board contracted from the pool of more than 150 others work- can help,” she said. with ESC-NNE and convened a study coming in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, “The nonprofit world is never easy. It’s a mittee to develop a strategic plan for the among them Woodard, who is moving to tough business,” said Claire Larrabee, who library.

“We want to set the principles and New Hampshire. joined ESC after a career in marketing with direction we will hold to,” she said, stressing Post explained that volunteers, drawn from high-tech firms like Adobe and Digital. “Orthe role of the library as “a gatherer, curator both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, ganizations spend a great amount of time and broker of information for use by other bring impressive résumés and considerable looking for money.” people.” experience to their role. They undergo an She noted that among nonprofits, “passion “Google,” she added, “will give you 1,000 orientation and training program to become for the mission often outweighs business answers.

Librarians will give you the right anfamiliar with the structure, operations and acumen. Just doing good work may not be swer.” governance of nonprofits as well as the best sufficient,” she continued. “Good business practices of acting as a consultant. sense along with outreach and marketing is Post said that consultants — whose back- very important.”

Serving the elderly The Kurn Hattin Homes for Children in Westminster, Vt., founded in 1894, is a residential and educational facility for as many as 100 children aged 5 to 15 from troubled homes and backgrounds, all of whom particEmpower Success Corps originated in 1964, Corps and defined its mission as “to improve the ipate in community service projects. The anwhen President Lyndon Johnson announced the management of nonprofits in Greater Boston.” nual operating budget tops $5.5 million and formation of the International Executive Service That year, 60 “volunteer consultants” provided charitable donations account for 95 cents of Corps, an initiative of philanthropists David Rock2,400 hours of service to growing numbers of every dollar. efeller and Sol Linowitz, to complement the work nonprofit organizations in New England.

“We have no significant revenue from eiof the U.S. Agency for International Development ESC of Northern New England (ESC-NNE) began ther state or federal governments and take and the Peace Corps, both founded three years serving nonprofits in New Hampshire, Maine and some pride in that,” said Executive Director earlier. At the same time, SCORE (the Service Vermont in 1999, and in 2018 merged with the Steve Harrison.

Corps of Retired Executives) was added to the Boston-based ESC organization in Boston in what Harrison said he has worked with ESC-NNE in the past and is in the process of preparroster of services provided by the U.S. Small Busi- Lynn Post, director of ESC-NNE, called a “seaming a vision for the “next five, 15 or 20 years” ness Administration. less transition.” The NNE office handles busias the prelude to engaging an architect and The idea of drawing on the knowledge and ness development, client services and volunteer contractor to develop a master plan for the experience of retired executives to assist with the recruitment in the three states while training, 280-acre campus and mounting a capital organization and operation of nonprofit agencies bookkeeping and administration are based in the campaign to fund the project. led to the formation of the first Executive Service main office.

He said that ESC-NNE will be engaged in Corps in New York City in 1977. Five years later Together, ESC fields between 150 and 175 both the planning and fundraising aspects of in Boston, executives from Fidelity Investments volunteer consultants serving more than 100 nonthe undertaking.

“They are very professional began ESC and ABLE (Ability on Long Experience) profit organizations throughout New England each consultants,” he said, “easy to work with and under the rubric Careers for Later Years. By 1990, year. ESC is one of 14 affiliates of ESC-US serving good people with good ideas.” the organization had become Empower Success nonprofits in 18 states. — MICHAEL KITCH A retired nurse, Nancy Euchner has served the elderly in a variety of settings for some

How Empower Success Corps works

45 years and now is introducing a model new to New Hampshire, designed to enable senior citizens to remain in their own homes as they age.

Fashioned after Beacon Hill Village in Boston, which was founded in 2002, Seacoast Village is conceived as an organization of volunteers who together provide a network providing a diverse range of services to elderly homeowners and renters within a defined area.

“It is a virtual or open village,” Euchner said, describing a model that has been replicated or planned in 150 communities around the world.

Euchner, who said she had worked with ESC-NNE in the past, renewed the partnership when she decided to pursue the Seacoast Village project.

“You get really great people who do the hands-on work,” she said, “and follow a set of guiding principles.”

She said that Woodard was addressing governance issues, including recruitment of board members, while Boyd was designing messaging and fundraising strategies as well as enlisting volunteers. She said when she tells prospective donors that she is working with ESC-NNE, she receives a positive response. “They are very well thought of,” Euchner said.

After serving with the National Guard in Iraq, Will Hopkins has been executive director of NH Peace Action for the past 10 years.

He said that the peace movement has fallen on hard times, especially in rural areas.

Hopkins turned to ESC-NNE to prepare a strategic plan to build the membership and strengthen the presence of the organization, which provides both public education and political advocacy around the issues of foreign policy and military spending.

“We birddog candidates, especially presidential candidates, and question them to keep these issues at the forefront of the national agenda,” he said.

“We got a grant to fund the planning process and shopped around before settling on ESC-NNE. Hopkins said that Hutchinson and Post “have been working with us and they’ve been great. They are a really good outfit.”

While consultants volunteer their time pro bono, ESC-NNE charges for its services, applying a flexible pricing model with tiered pricing tailored to the annual revenue of each organization. At the same time, consideration is given to an organization’s budget for a particular project. For instance, if the project is funded by a grant, the fee is kept within that budget. In northern New England, fees range from $1,500 for facilitating a strategic planning retreat to between $12,000 and $15,000 for a strategic planning process stretching for months and requiring extensive research.

Post conceded that, despite its cadre of accomplished marketers and communicators, ESC-NNE has not established a presence in the crowded marketplace for consulting services to match its talent.

But, she said, “sometimes you have to eat your own dog food.”

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FROM PAGE 1

Localities fear ‘long-term, significant’ fiscal impacts FROM PAGE 1 As expenses rise, revenues dwindle, said Margaret By- ming staff, reducing services and postponing projects.

Apart from delinquencies, abatements also sap municified expenses between March 1 and Aug. 31 are twice that, rnes, the NHMA’s executive director.

Byrnes told GOFERR that municipalities are “concerned pal revenues. Donchess said that owners of some comit would receive $100,000. Likewise, if the same municipality incurred qualified expenses of $90,000 in March and April, it and anxious” about the future of state aid, specifically the mercial property have already filed abatement requests.

He said that Nashua collects more than $200 million in would receive $10,000 for additional expenses regardless of distribution of meals and rooms tax revenue, $40 million in unrestricted funds included in the biennial budget and property taxes from commercial property and noted that their amount.

Any amount allocated that exceeds eligible expenses in- highway block grants. She was echoed by her colleague, abatements of 10% would reduce revenue by $20 million.

To manage cash flow, municipalities borrow tax anticipacurred between March and August will lapse to the state Barbara Reid, who said “state aid is of paramount contion notes, or TANs, against future property tax receipts. cern.” for other distribution.

Reid said a third of municipalities reported they “were Qualified expenses includeLAKES costsREGION for cleaning and dis- REGION NASHUA NORTH COUNTRY not sure” of their capacity to borrow. Reid said that the infecting municipal facilities, enabling officials and em- Revenue worries Federal Reserve System has broached the concept of a ployees to work remotely, providing child care for first Reid explained that delinquent property taxes threaten “municipal liquidity facility,” but cautioned that at this responders and funding increased welfare benefits. The point there is no assurance that it would serve New Hampfunds cannot be applied against shortfalls in municipal municipal cash flows.

Of the 234 municipalities, 197 operate on a calendar year shire municipalities. revenues. The governor said the money was intended to Reid also pointed out that school districts have no shortbridge the gap between municipal expenses and antici- and most collect taxes on July 1 and Dec. 1. Mortgage esTOP ROW: BUSINESS TECH, ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, HOSPITALS, BANKING, PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY pated reimbursements from the Federal Emergency Man- crow payments range from 16% to 80% and average 45% term borrowing authority, but instead must draw funds SECOND ROW: FEATURE STORY AND JUMPS, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, while OPINIONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT delinquencies rangeTOWN from 2% to 30% and average from municipalities. However, Reid noted that the federal agement Agency.

THIRD ROW: REAL ESTATE + CONSTRUCTION, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE,9%.

TOURISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE reserves to While most municipalities have sufficient CARES Act includes $13.5 billion for public schools.

The NHMA surveyed all 234 municipalities, and despite FORTH ROW: AREA GRAPHICS, another TOURISM choice, CALENDAR, LAST WORD withstand a delinquency rate of 10% for six months, she Reid also told GOFERR that a quarter of municipalities only 48 hours’ notice, 127 responded. Margaret Byrnes and Barbara Reid of the NHMA presented the results last said, 40% could not if delinquencies rise to 20% and near- reported declining revenue from motor vehicle registrations — the second largest source of municipal revenue — week to the Governor’s Office for Emergency Relief and ly all could not if they top 30%.

Meredith Town Manager Phil Warren said, “It is not so which is projected to reach $23 million by the close of the Recovery, or GOFERR. much the increase in expenses. That’s the easy part. I’m year. And other municipal revenues from building permits worried about revenues.” as well as parking, recreation, beach and other fees are Rising expenses He said that apart from state aid, he was most con- projected to drop by $35 million.

Municipalities are beset by rising expenses and falling cerned about property tax payments, explaining that if The impact on local property taxes can only be imagrevenues. From the municipalities reporting, the NHMA delinquencies top 10%, he would have to consider trim- ined. calculated that in the five weeks between March 13 and April 14, municipal expenses rose by $7.6 million and estimated the increase would reach $27.2 million by year’s end.

Municipalities with police and fire services reported that expenses for personal protective equipment and overtime had increased by $2 million — a number that’s expected

BY DAMIEN FISHER to climb to $10 million during the remainder of the year.

As cities and towns continue to rack up expenses re- New stimulus package Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig told GOFERR that, for lated to the Covid-19 pandemic while at the same time There’s also the costs being pushed onto school dispolice officers and firefighters alone, related costs were anticipating a drop in property tax revenue, U.S. Sen. tricts. running at $150,000 per month while overtime and Jeanne Shaheen promised them flexibility when it comes Somersworth Mayor Dana Hilliard said his city’s school PPE had cost the city’s Health Department more than to the stimulus payments coming out of Washington. district has struggled to make sure students have equal $200,000. An indeterminate share of the costs associat“State and local governments are really on the front access to remote learning. That means making sure poor ed with emergency services will be eligible for reimburseline of this pandemic,” Shaheen said during a May 13 and disadvantaged children have internet-connected ment from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. conference call with New Hampshire mayors and mu- devices.

Craig was echoed by Mayor Jim Donchess of Nashua, nicipal managers.

“What most school districts have learned with going who anticipated similar increases in expenses while highShaheen said a new stimulus package introduced in remote is that inequality comes right back,” Hilliard said. lighting costs arising from aggressive testing and contactthe House will have more money for municipalities. She School districts need to look toward the coming fall tracing programs undertaken by the city in partnership also said the $1.25 billion already sent to New Hampshire semester and be ready to supply all students with access with regional public health agencies. At the same time, he as part of the CARES Act can be used now to help plug to remote learning devices, and that will cost money. said that, with the closing of public schools and turn to resome of the Covid-induced gaps.

Concerns about the coming fiscal year range from mote learning, “some kids are off the grid” and suggested Cities, towns and school districts have incurred unanPortsmouth Mayor Rick Becksted’s concern that his city “an intensive remedial tutoring effort will be needed to ticipated expenses because of the Covid-19 response, might have to cut staff to Claremont Mayor Charlene overcome the educational losses of the six-month hiatus.” and according to many of the local leaders on the call, Lovett’s concerns that local nonprofits are missing out More than half of the municipalities that responded the financial future is fraught with uncertainty. July 1 tax on grant funding while also losing out on the ability to to the NHMA survey anticipated welfare costs — chiefly bills could spell trouble for a lot of communities. host fundraisers. rental assistance, utility payments and foodstuffs — would Franklin Mayor Tony Giunta said his city is bracing for Shaheen said the new stimulus package introduced spike by a total of $1.6 million during the year, particularly the worst. this week in Congress will contain money to deal with once the stay on foreclosures is lifted.

“Franklin is approaching 30% unemployment,” Giunta many of these concerns, as well as money for expanded Nearly two-thirds said they have incurred higher costs said.

“If I was among that 30%, I wouldn’t be sending a testing, money for emergency housing, an expanded associated with the technology required to enable emcheck on July 1.” paycheck protection program and more $1,200 payployees to work and officials to meet remotely, which they Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig said she’s also not opti- ments for individuals. projected to total $850,000. Likewise, legal fees associmistic about the coming tax bills.

The bill may not come up for a vote in the Senate until ated with managing employment, compliance, tax abate“We are seeing the hit locally from the financial per- the end of the summer. ments and elections are expected to increase by $4 milspective,” Craig said. “We are anticipating a decrease in Shaheen said the money already sent to New Hamplion. revenues.” shire in the first round of stimulus, totaling $1.25 billion, Laconia School Superintendent Steve Tucker suggested Craig said that, while the revenues are likely going can be used now to help municipalities. that his school district could incur increased costs to opdown, her city and others have laid out money to cover “I’m assuming many of you have used dollars meant for erate in compliance with public health guidelines by reguthe costs associated with the pandemic response. Those other things to deal with the pandemic,” Shaheen said. larly sanitizing and disinfecting buildings as well as reduccosts can range from money to pay first responders, to ing class sizes and adjusting teachers’ schedules to meet pay for personal protective equipment, and cleaning and This article is being shared by partners in The Granite State News social distancing protocols. And, he said, the restructuring Collaborative. For more information, visit collaborativenh.org. disinfection of public space. and rescheduling of classes would likely increase transportation costs.

Shaheen says help is on the horizon for municipalities

MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

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Loretta Brady Professor, Psychology, Saint Anselm College

FREE VIRTUAL EVENT!

Wednesday, May 27 • 10:00-11:00 AM Register at nhbr.com/nextgen-nh Four inspiring Granite State women business leaders will share advice on how to develop, engage and empower the state’s emerging generation of new leaders.

The virtual event will feature a discussion on the importance of mentorship, professional development and pathways toward senior leadership. Panelists will also share pivotal experiences that had an impact on their career, tips on how to successfully navigate gender dynamics in the workplace, and the value of bringing together the current and next generation of women leaders.

Moderator

Liisa Rajala

Loretta L.C. Brady, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist, writer, and professor of psychology at Saint Anselm College, where she directs “Requity Labs” and serves as co-director for the Center for Teaching Excellence.

Dr. Brady serves on the boards of several task forces and local nonprofits including The Granite YMCA and Elliot Health System.

Her award-winning writing has appeared in NH Business Review, Business NH Magazine, and she has been a source for the New York Times, USA Today and the Washington Post on issues related to workforce development and resilience. Dr. Brady’s literary work is represented by agent Beth Marshea, Ladderbird Literary founder.

Her career includes a Fulbright fellowship (’13) and a McNair fellowship (’98). She lives in Manchester, NH with her family and socially distancing dog, Zelda.

Sara Bee

Associate Editor, NH Business Review

Financial Solutions Advisor, Merrill Lynch

Liisa Rajala covers a variety of business topics for NH Business Review including broadband build-out in the age of remote working, high-tech startups and international trade.

Prior to joining NH Business Review in 2014, Liisa covered industry trends for The Kiplinger Letter in Washington, D.C., for three years.

She credits landing the best reporting job in New Hampshire to launching her career early through internships, starting with her hometown paper, the Kennebunk Post, in southern Maine, and notably writing features and news articles for Roll Call and USA Today.

Liisa earned her bachelor's degree in international relations with a minor in communication at American University in Washington, D.C. She lives in Manchester with her husband, Ryan, and their six-monthold son, Liam.

Sara Bee is a financial solutions advisor at Merrill Lynch in Manchester. Her finance career launched in 2013 as an internal wholesaler at Transamerica Capital, where she rose to regional vice president.

Sara is a proud Manchester West High graduate who returned home to New Hampshire in 2018 after earning her degree at the University of Colorado at Boulder and living in Denver and Nashville. She now lives in Manchester and enjoys being active in the community.

Sara is passionate about empowering youth and serves on the board of directors of Manchester Police Athletic League and coaches a girls lacrosse team through the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester. She is a Queen City Rotarian, a member of this year’s Leadership Greater Manchester class and volunteers with New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility, the New Hampshire Tech Alliance and Women in Sales NH. Sara loves skiing, live music, Lake Winnipesaukee and her puppy, Simba.

Sponsored by:

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

Pubali Chakravorty-Campbell SHRM-SCP As an accomplished entrepreneur, Pubali has lived through both the challenges and the successes of being a business owner. Her first company, a Manchester-based Bikram yoga studio, won multiple awards and was the focus of several local and national television, radio, and magazine features, including New Hampshire Chronicle and WMUR. Leveraging her robust background in business administration, executive coaching, and a professional designation as a Senior Certified HR Professional, Pubali specializes in strategic human resources for business owners and leaders who want to align their business goals with those of their workforce and be employers of choice.

Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Pubali has been in New England since 1997 when she relocated to Boston to attend Boston University (B.A. Economics, ‘01). As a member of New Hampshire’s rich entrepreneurial community, she has won numerous business awards such as NH Business Review’s Outstanding Women in Business, New Hampshire Magazine’s Remarkable Women, and the NH Union Leader’s 40 Under Forty. In 2019, she was selected as one of the Granite State’s Most Influential Business Leaders by the NH Business Review.

Aimee Giglio Chief Human Resources Officer, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Aimee Giglio was named chief human resources officer for Dartmouth-Hitchcock/ DartmouthHitchcock Health in February 2018, directing all human resources activities for nearly 10,000 employees across 30 locations. She leads a department of 80 with an annual operational budget of $20 million and reports directly to the CEO and president.

Amy had served as the interim chief human resources officer since February 2017. Prior to that, she served from 2010 to 2014 as Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health’s director of human resources talent acquisition, business partners, shared services, workforce analytics, benefits and compensation. From 2014 to 2017, she led human resources interdisciplinary teams focused on operational and strategic aspects of talent management, human capital analytics, compensation, benefits and wellness engagement.

Over the course of her leadership and as part of this role, Amy designed and implemented several employee engagement strategies, while serving as plan expert and executive leadership consultant to D-H, affiliate hospital partners and community organizations.

WE ALL HAVE A HAND IN EMPOWERING OUR LEADERS. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health is proud to support NextGen New Hampshire and its mission to engage and develop the future women business leaders of our state.

dartmouth-hitchcock.org

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NH OPINIONS

Can New Hampshire really limit out-of-staters?

Narrow, but not broad, restrictions do pass constitutional muster ENFORCEMENT ● BY CITIZENS COUNT

A

s part of his new stay-at-home guidelines, Gov. Chris Sununu said that golf courses and campgrounds cannot serve out-of-staters unless they are members.

These guidelines follow attempts by many other states to limit travel by out-of-state residents during the coronavirus pandemic. Some lawyers argue that limiting travel and commerce across state lines is unconstitutional, and KING, PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY judge agrees. at least one federal ONS, THE LATEST, ABOUTSununu’s TOWN However, order is limited in scope, which RISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE makes it much more likely to pass constitutional muster.

ORD As the governor “flexes” open areas of the economy, there might be more limits on Massachusetts travelers.

Limits on out-of-staters in NH The coronavirus outbreak is much more severe in Massachusetts, and many New Hampshire residents — including the governor — have expressed anxiety about Bay Staters coming north.

Even so, Sununu has said he cannot close the border to Massachusetts, turn Massachusetts residents away from state parks or ban Massachusetts residents from moving into summer homes. He said any of those acts would violate the commerce clause of the U.S. Constitution, which forbids states from interfering with or discriminating against interstate commerce.

But the governor’s new guidelines place two limits on Massachusetts travelers. Golf courses and campgrounds cannot serve any out-of-state customer unless a customer is a member.

Legal challenges to banning out-of-staters

There have been several lawsuits and lawsuit threats over travel bans in other states.

Several weeks ago, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo threatened to sue Rhode Island for pulling over drivers with New York license plates and forcing them to selfquarantine. In response, Rhode Island changed its policy to route all out-of-state drivers through checkpoints.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton targeted Gunnison County in Colorado after the county ordered secondhome-owners to leave. Paxton called the order “patent discrimination against non-resident homeowners — including Texans who own homes in Gunnison County.”

A federal court recently struck down an executive order banning most out-of-state travel in Kentucky. The order only allowed Kentuckians to travel out of state for work, essential supplies, health care, care for dependents or other vulnerable people, or a court order. Senior U.S. District Judge William Bertelsman wrote this violates “the basic right of citizens to engage in interstate travel.”

Narrower limits look more legal Constitutional rights are not unlimited, however. As a famous example, the right to free speech does not cover shouting “fire” in a crowded theater. A narrowly written ban on out-of-state travel or commerce might be constitutional if it is also balanced by a compelling threat to public safety, like a disease outbreak.

Judge Bertelsman’s Kentucky ruling noted that the travel ban might be constitutional with just “minor amendments.” As an example, Bertelsman pointed to Ohio’s travel ban, which focuses on travelers staying more than 24 hours. He also suggested “requests” and “guidance” are more constitutional than orders with harsh penalties.

Governor Sununu’s ban on out-of-staters at golf courses and campgrounds is much narrower than a statewide ban on outsiders, which means his ban is more likely to hold up in court.

At a May 1 press conference, Sununu also said, “It’s really up to the facility to make sure that they’re adhering to the rules of the guidelines” and “we don’t have stay-at-home police that patrol the state.”

While theoretically a facility could lose its license for violating the new stay-at-home guidelines — for example after letting out-of-staters golf — Sununu seems extremely reluctant to punish people. In other words, Sununu’s order seems more in line with the “requests” and “guidance” Bertelsman suggested in his ruling.

Could there be more limits for out-of-staters in NH? Theoretically New Hampshire could choose to add more limits on out-of-staters as the economy reopens. Gyms and hotels might be likely candidates for in-state limits.

Some states and foreign countries are already considering “travel bubbles” or “tourist corridors” that would allow travel for people to and from areas without coronavirus.

Sununu suggested another option: Businesses could choose to refuse out-of-state customers on their own.

Restaurants, hotels and other public accommodations cannot refuse customers based on age, sex, race, religion or other specific reasons, but “state of residence” is not one of those protected classes. That leaves the door open to businesses voluntarily turning away Massachusetts customers.

This article is being shared by partners in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information, visit collaborativenh.org.

Intervention won’t lead to economic recovery More government actions will make it harder to emerge from downturn GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

BY CHRISTOPHER MAIDMENT

A

s the economic costs of the Covid-19 shutdown begin to add up and our state begins to reopen, it will become increasingly important for policymakers to start looking at ways to rebuild the booming economy we had just eight short weeks ago.

New Hampshire has now received over 183,000 initial unemployment claims since March 15. Some businesses around the state are locking their doors for good, while others desperately hold on to what they’ve spent their lives building. Employees sit home, anxiously waiting to return to work safely.

The shape of the recovery will depend mainly on the government’s actions moving forward.

Government orders are solely responsible for this downturn, that much we know. The stay-at-home orders mandated businesses close, temporarily, in the name of public health and safety. These

orders ground our booming economy to a near halt and caused Great Depression levels on unemployment rolls.

It will not be through government intervention that we recover from this disaster, though. Policymakers must be wary of well-intentioned policies that have unintended consequences.

For example, an increased minimum wage at this time would undoubtedly put more money into a few pockets, but would leave many others empty. New hires and those able to earn employment would benefit. Their benefit would come at the expense of those unable to find jobs at the newly increased cost. These policies would undoubtedly hurt the very people it intends to help. The low-skilled and entry-level workers would remain on the sidelines.

Cash-crippled businesses cannot afford an increase in the costs of doing business, which would prolong the recovery we all desperately need right now.

Any added restriction or regulation to businesses would have a similar effect. It

sure sounds nice to be promised family medical leave insurance, mandatory paid sick time, or expanded workers compensation. Enacting these policies would make it more difficult, not less, to employ Granite Staters.

Policymakers must instead focus their attention on areas where barriers can be removed or reduced. Legislators can repeal the employer tax increases set to take effect as a result of this crisis as a straightforward first step. Businesses should retain their hard-earned money and use it to revamp, reinvigorate and renew, instead of handing it to politicians and bureaucrats to squander.

The government suspended many regulations during the virus. Legislators can and should repeal or modify these regulations, decreasing restrictions on enterprise. Allowing restaurants to continue take-out beer and wine sales, for example, removes a barrier to revenue that will grow our economy. Policymakers must examine more regulations to see if they prove to be an unnecessary hurdle that stifles growth.

Further, policymakers must examine licensing in the state at all levels. They should strive to reserve barriers to entry for only the most critical industries and services. No one wants to get operated on by an unqualified surgeon, but increasing restrictions for barbers, hairbraiders and estheticians doesn’t make sense.

The government must get out of the way if it wishes to get the unemployed back to work. Removing barriers will afford the jobless more avenues to retain employment and attain the American dream.

People across the state and country are hurting right now. It will be tempting for policymakers to lean into policies to help them, to care for them. The best thing the government can do to enable a strong recovery, though, is to get out of the way.

Granite Staters are resilient – we can and will pull ourselves out of this depression. The government must allow us to do so.

Christopher Maidment of Peterborough is a small business owner and candidate for state representative.

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How health insurers are responding to Covid-19 INSURANCE

BY DONALD PFUNDSTEIN

T

he Covid-19 pandemic is posing unprecedented challenges to New Hampshire and our nation, and you may be wondering how health insurance carriers have been responding to these challenging times.

The state’s insurance companies are working with their health delivery partners — hospitals, health systems, and individual providers — to address the many challenges associated with the pandemic. They are also taking decisive measures to prevent and slow the spread of the disease, ensuring access to coverage for testing, diagnosis, and treatment for Covid-19.

Health insurance providers’ specific emergency actions during this crisis include: • Eliminating patient cost-sharing for Covid-19 testing and treatment — no co-pays, no co-insurance, no deductibles. That removes a barrier to care and helps hospitals with guaranteed payments.

• Waiving prior authorization for those seeking testing or treatment of Covid-19.

• Waiving cost-sharing for telehealth services and dramatically expanding access.

This eases the burden on the health system, allowing hospitals to care for people who

need it most, while limiting the exposure of healthcare workers and patients to the disease.

• Protecting patients from surprise medical bills from health providers. By covering testing and treatment without application of cost shares, health insurance providers are doing their part to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Carriers are encouraging health providers everywhere to refrain from sending surprise medical bills to patients during this national crisis.

• Health insurance providers are working to simplify or change medical management processes on an emergency basis, including simplifying and accelerating the discharge and transfer of patients from hospitals to the safest available, clinically appropriate post-acute care facility or home.

• On March 19 and April 8, the trade group America’s Health Insurance Plans joined together with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association to urge Congress to help families and businesses get and maintain their healthcare coverage. Recommendations included providing new funding to ensure that Americans who lose their jobs during the Covid-19 pandemic can maintain their coverage, and establishing a temporary emergency risk mitigation program to ensure that health premiums do not spike and that health care benefits remain stable.

AHIP and its members emphatically supported the direct federal funding for hospitals and health care providers in the emergency relief legislation signed by President Trump. This emergency funding includes $100 billion in direct federal assistance, a 2% increase in Medicare payments for all providers, and a 20% increase in Medicare inpatient care payments for Covid-19 related claims. Governor Sununu’s Emergency Order #9 creates a Healthcare System Relief Fund of $50 million for hospitals and providers. If it is found that these federal and state efforts are not enough, New Hampshire’s health insurance companies would support further government enhancement.

Health insurance providers also feel the enormous financial consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. In one study, experts estimate that in the commercial health insurance market alone, Covid-19 testing and treatment costs in the first year could reach $250 billion in a worst case scenario. That amount is more than the total capital and surplus held by the entire health insurance industry in 2018 and does not even begin to contemplate the costs to be borne by Medicare Advantage and Medicaid managed care.

Another study estimates that the costs of Covid-19 testing and treatment to health insurance providers — commercial, Medicare

Systemic change and ‘Future Shock’ SOCIETY

BY ANNABEL BEEREL

I

n 1970, Alvin Toffler penned a runaway bestseller, “Future Shock,” referring to the state of extreme stress and disorientation individuals experience when they are subjected to too much change in too short a time. The biggest challenge, he claimed, is the rate of change we are being faced with, rather than its direction.

Toffler anticipated that future shock would be an imminent danger to society and stated how “appalled” he was at how little is known about adaptivity. He criticized both intellectuals and educators, saying that they in no way prepare people for the future. His 1970 book provides an intense documentation of how 20th century life had become one of roaring change that was so powerful that he anticipated it would shatter societies, overturn institutions, radically shift our values and shake us to our roots.

One of the biggest challenges of future shock is the confrontation to our psyches.

Toffler explained what happens to us when we reach the upper levels of our adaptive range. We become fatigued, apathetic, suffer from emotional exhaustion, feel overwhelmed and succumb to decision-stress.

With decision-stress, we default to habitual, mechanical behavior. We make bad decisions, or we readily hand our decisions over.

to someone else.

In attempts to deal with radical change, he said, some people revert obsessively to previously adaptive routines that have become inappropriate. Others look for a super-simplifier. Someone who will resolve everything with a single, neat equation.

Toffler referred to the U.S. as a society that is out of control. He mentioned it exhibiting qualities of an individual going through a nervous breakdown. He suggested that creative strategies are needed for shaping, deflecting, accelerating and decelerating change. He proposed that it is a time for people to work together to be imaginative and insightful.

He predicted that the effects of the technological revolution will be deeper than any social change we have experienced before.

Unless steps are taken, he insisted, human beings will find themselves increasingly disoriented, and progressively incompetent to deal rationally with their environment.

This will lead to mass malaise and neurosis, irrational behaviors, mental health problems and a growth in free-floating violence — all things that were already evident in the 1970s and have cast a shadow forward of to what lies ahead.

To survive, wrote Toffler, individuals must become infinitely more adaptable and capable than before. They must find ways to anchor themselves and establish what he called a stability zone. Education must take

a more helpful role in helping people adapt to change. Technology must be tamed as it is the accelerative force behind everything.

Corporations and government must work together to envision a future that balances the change in the environment and individuals’ adaptive capacities. People need to work together to create visions, dreams, and prophesies — images of potential tomorrows.

Leadership is about identifying and framing new realities and mobilizing people to adapt to the changes they imply. Alas, few

Advantage and Medicaid managed care plans — could range from $56 billion to $555 billion over the next two years. Health insurance providers must have the necessary funds to cover all of the unexpected costs related to Covid-19.

At the same time, economic shockwaves are putting businesses and their workers at high risk – including their ability to afford their current health insurance coverage. The combination of surging unexpected costs along with shrinking premium dollars due to the enormous pressure on businesses, families and individuals is putting a serious and significant financial strain on health insurance providers.

New Hampshire’s health insurance carriers are fully committed to helping the state’s healthcare system meet the challenges posed by Covid-19 by adopting emergency measures and working with the state’s policymakers and stakeholders on ways to make health insurance coverage more affordable for New Hampshire’s employers, employees and families.

Attorney Donald J. Pfundstein, a shareholder and director of the Concord-based firm of Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell, focuses on regulated industries. His clients include America’s Health Insurance Plans. His colleague Heidi Kroll as well as AHIP staff helped with the work on this article.

leaders are adaptive leaders who understand that their task is to help people go to new places. That is what “to lead” means.

That is why true leaders have always been guides who facilitate others’ transformation.

Hopefully, these times will encourage us to stay “slowed down” and to begin doing our adaptive work.

Annabel Beerel, Ph.D., is principal of Ethical Leadership Consulting and author of “Ethical Leadership and Global Capitalism: A Guide to Good Practice.”

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EDUCATION

College-bound teens feeling impact of Covid-19 Many NH families reevaluate their higher-ed plans

LAKES REGION OUNTRY BY JUDI CURRIE

NASHUA REGION their concerns about paying bills while 13%

say their parent or caregiver has lost their job High school seniors are taking a long, hard due to Covid-19, leading them to consider a public school or a college closer to home to look at college plans.

According to a new survey by Junior lower travel expenses.

“If there’s a second round of Covid-19, it is Achievement USA and Citizens Bank, more better be closer to home should colleges than two-thirds of teens report they are eiBUSINESS TECH, ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, HOSPITALS, BANKING,to PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY have toTHE quickly shut down again,” said Robther somewhat or veryINconcerned aboutLAW, the OPINIONS, OW: FEATURE STORY AND JUMPS, BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LATEST, ABOUT TOWN erts. “I’mNEWS, happy that families are having those W: REAL impact ESTATE +ofCONSTRUCTION, HEALTHCARE, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE the pandemicEDUCATION, on their families and TOURISM, W: AREA day-to-day GRAPHICS, another WORD and not waiting until the elevlives. TOURISM choice, CALENDAR, LAST conversations The survey of 1,000 U.S. teens, ages 13 to enth hour.”

18 and not currently attending college, found that 44% of high school juniors and seniors Decision day say Covid-19 has impacted their plans to pay May 1 in the college-bound world is called for college. decision day. It is the deadline for students Christine Roberts, head of student lending to accept offers of admission, however, many for Citizens Bank, said one positive takeaway colleges have pushed the date to June 1. is families are talking about finances, some“A lot of schools are still grappling with what thing the bank has always encouraged as part the fall semester will look like,’ Roberts said. of its mission.

“And families are waiting to see. There’s a lot “We call it, ‘the other talk you have to have of unknowns.” with your kids’ and it’s all about how you Brenda Poznanski, director of school counwill pay for and finance college,” said Robseling and admission for Bishop Guertin High erts. “More than 70% of the students who School in Nashua, agreed. “We all have to wait responded said they have been talking with and see.

I’ve been getting a lot of information parents and say they understand how this is from colleges that are planning to open in the affecting the family financially.” fall, but they are cautiously optimistic.”

Nearly a quarter of teenagers say their parBishop Guertin is a college preparatory ents or caregivers have shared with them school, and many of its students applied and

received early acceptance.

“Now those decisions may change with the economy or if colleges go remote,” she said.

“Kids may defer. We’ve been talking about it, and I have been forwarding information on a daily basis from colleges.”

According to the JA-Citizens survey, 30% of those whose plans have changed said they have had to delay their college start date and 13% said they have changed the school they plan to attend.

But those who defer may not find much to do. “A gap year is a dramatic decision. What will they do with that time?” Poznanski said.

“Typically, they would go abroad to study, work on a farm or do AmeriCorps, but those activities may be shut down as well. Internships and apprenticeships may not be available either.”

She said juniors are probably more anxious than seniors because they really don’t know what is going to happen. They cannot visit campuses (typically done during April vacation), and SAT and ACT exams, used in admissions scoring by some colleges, were suspended for May and June.

Even careful, long-range planners may find themselves in trouble, Roberts said, as college savings plans (called 529s) have been hit by

the stock market. Almost 60% surveyed say they are now more likely to take out student loans.

“We have just launched CitizensBank.everfi. com, a resource for all things financial with a holistic view of managing money, including higher education costs,” said Roberts. “We want people to have the information to make the best decision and, quite frankly, borrow as little as possible.”

A graduate of Plymouth Regional High School, Rhys Harris, was accepted for admission by Wesleyan University in Connecticut through early decision and was “incredibly excited” to start college in the fall. But Covid-19 has put into question aspects of his future that seemed certain just two or three months ago. He said Wesleyan may delay freshman matriculation to the spring.

“With the crash of the economy as well, I may end up entering the job market in a turbulent time,” he said. “Many people a decade ago were forced into the job market during the height of the 2008 financial crisis, which has had long-lasting impacts on the lives of young adults at that time.”

This article is being shared by partners in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information, visit collaborativenh.org.

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BANKING

Uncertainty and turmoil do not mean ‘catastrophic’ In contemplating the ‘new normal,’ remember the resilience of the U.S.

BY TOM SEDORIC AND CASEY SNYDER

We are now weeks into an economic and social environment that few of us could have ever imagined at the beginning of 2020. This country has weathered numerous recessions and the Great Depression, but we have never been forced to metaphorically put the economy into a coma due to the country’s gravest public health crisis in over a century.

With each passing day, the political pressures are increasing to “reopen” the country to greater economic activity while still amidst a global pandemic that we are just learning to comprehend. We don’t know whether we are experiencing a severe recession “flu” with potential for a quick bounce-back or something inherently wider, deeper and longer-lasting.

KING, PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY Collectively, we are IONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT TOWN trying to adapt as RISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE disruptions, ONLINE a country to many serious ORD ranging from school closings, loss of employment, a massive devolution in the consumer sector, social distancing and work distancing. While markets are wandering around seeking a signal from the future, risk assets suffered a whiplash,

with record equity market sell-offs followed by equally intense rebounds since the end of February.

Everybody loves the financial counsel they receive in a bull market, but it is times like these where we, as fiduciaries, genuinely “earn our keep.” This means we remain calm and we stick to wellthought-out plans through an unprecedented mix of social, political, financial and public health turmoil.

As Warren Buffett famously said, “You only find out who’s swimming naked when the tide goes out.”

For years we have preached the values of planning, financial discipline and knowing one’s own strengths and weaknesses. We have been rewarded and grateful that so many of those practices are now taking hold — and paying off when they matter most. We were prepared for this type of perfect storm before it arrived.

We are not Pollyannaish. The profound economic, health and mortal toll of Covid-19 will not simply vanish in the days, weeks or months ahead. But just as

emerging from this crisis will take bold planning and execution at many levels, the same can be said for us as individuals. Panic only begets more panic. If we fully understand what we do have control over and how we can best prepare with the proper perspective and context, we will all be more than just survivors.

In a recent memo, Howard Marks of Oaktree Capital offered this perspective: “In the global financial crisis (2008) I worried about the downward cascade of financial news, and about the implications for the economy of serial bankruptcies and among financial institutions. But everyday life was unchanged from what it had been and there was no threat to life or limb,” he said. “The world will go back to normal someday, although today it seems unlikely to end up unchanged.”

How do we handle the new normal?

During a recent conference call with clients, we offered perspective via manageable pieces of historical information through the four “V’s” before us: • Valuation (asset prices were extended coming into 2020) • Volatility (stock market swings

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exacerbated by algorithmic trading and ETFs) • Virus (public health) • Vitriol (a less-than-harmonious global or national geopolitical environment) We talked about how each recession is unique, but that recovery always happens, so we must now focus on what is clear.

For example, the financial markets are relatively strong with historically low, nearnegative interest rates, immense Federal Reserve cash infusions and massive government spending such as the CARES Act. There is little doubt that much more will be needed in order to stem the current tsunami of economic damage.

The cash infusions come with a rocket boost to the burgeoning federal debt, and there is no doubt that higher taxes are on the horizon. Now is the time for serious, long-term tax planning.

It is also time to do “loss harvesting” from equity losses and learn how losses can be incorporated into one’s tax planning. Investors may currently require more equity than fixed-income investment options, which will require a new paradigm of individual choices and risk tolerances.

Two years ago, we made a sizable investment for our clients investing in two-year Treasury bonds at 2% and it paid off. We weren’t just lucky. We know that when equity valuations are rich, we need to continue to manage risk in a holistic way.

A lengthy period of great uncertainty and turmoil may lie ahead but that in itself is not catastrophic. There was no assurance that the country would rebound so quickly from the horrors of World War 1 and the 1918-19 influenza, which killed more than 600,000 Americans and tens of millions globally — but it did. And no one knew when or how the Great Depression would end — but it did.

Even the recessions from the 1970s, spurred by oil embargos, to the Great Recession in 2008 driven by a collapse of our financial system, eventually led to robust recoveries. Whatever its flaws, America has always proven itself a remarkably resilient country.

In the spring of 1939, the British government created a series of striking red posters that inspired a nation that would soon be at war. The message?

“Keep Calm and Carry On.” Never has it seemed more relevant.

Tom Sedoric is partner, executive managing director and wealth manager and D. Casey Snyder, CFP, is partner, senior vice president and wealth manager of The Sedoric Group of Steward Partners in Portsmouth.

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Estate planning in a crisis Coronavirus has created opportunities worth evaluating

BY SCOTT LAVALLEY

The coronavirus crisis has cascaded through pretty much all areas of the financial world, leaving very few businesses unscathed. Uncertainty has always been the enemy of financial stability, and unfortunately, foundational questions about how long the recovery will take and what the future will look like post-crisis do not have clear answers. Understandably, this is a cause of worry and concern for many.

We remain ever conscious of the devastating impact Covid-19 has had on families and our community, but if we allow ourselves to focus on a few areas of our lives that we can control, this crisis has created some estate and financial planning opportunities worth evaluating.

Unified credit While not a new opportunity, the unified credit against estate and gift tax remains a valuable estate-reduction tool that will likely be diminished in the not too distant future. In simple terms, the unified credit is the amount that an individual can pass to others during life or at death without generating any estate or gift tax and is currently $11,580,000 per person.

On Jan. 1, 2026 (unless extended), the unified credit will automatically be reduced to approximately 50% of what it is today (with inflation adjustments). It is possible that due to the cost of the coronavirus bailout and/or if there is a change in the political leadership after the presidential election in November, the timetable for reduction in the unified credit may be accelerated.

What’s more, the available credit could possibly be reduced by even more than 50%. This is all to say that if there is a concern about the impact of future estate tax on your estate, it makes sense to review options for utilizing your unified credit and consider making gifts today as opposed to waiting.

Perhaps, at the very least, it may make sense for a married couple to utilize at least one available unified credit for a current gift. Finally, leveraging a unified credit today with advanced planning discount techniques and potentially reduced asset values as discussed below may provide a very valuable “once in a lifetime” opportunity to reduce future estate tax.

Reduced valuations For closely held business owners who wish to pass their business to the next generation, there is an opportunity today to gift all or a portion of your business,

today, at a value substantially lower than what it would have been pre-crisis.

The chaos created in the financial marketplace will likely have a negative impact, at least temporarily, on most businesses and their resulting value. Future revenue and profit projections may be justifiably reduced from previous levels due to economic uncertainties resulting from Covid-19.

Staffing challenges, temporary closings, shifting customer habits and supply chain disruptions all add to the uncertainty of many businesses’ future outlooks, thereby introducing a higher degree of risk (in valuation parlance, more risk results in a higher discount rate from which to apply to a business’s prospects). Finally, the market pricing of publicly traded businesses has come down substantially off their pre-crisis high.

All these factors can lead to a lower valuation, which is very beneficial when attempting to transfer a business to the next generation with the minimum gift and estate tax impact.

Leverage low interest rates Today’s low rates make many advanced estate-planning “discount” techniques, such as Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts, Charitable Lead Annuity Trusts, intrafamily loans and Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts, more attractive.

The discount element that many of these techniques utilize is dependent on the government’s Sect. 7520 rate, which is closely tied to the one-month average of the market yields from marketable obligations, such as T-bills with maturities of three to nine years. For many of the discount planning techniques, the lower the Sect. 7520 rate, the greater the discount the technique provides.

‘Bargain price’ transfers The reduced value of stock portfolios and other assets, such as real estate, may provide an opportunity to gift at a reduced value. Again, nobody knows what the future will bring as far as the performance of the stock market, but the hope is that the market downturn is short-lived and that the market will recover and flourish in the future.

Gifting at today’s lower values does present an opportunity to efficiently transfer assets out of your estate, while at the same time preserving estate tax credits and exclusions.

Scott LaValley, managing director-financial planning for Baldwin & Clarke Advisory Services, can be reached at scottl@bcasi.net.

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ASK THE EXPERTS: DATA SECURITY

Work-at-home world faces increased data security risks Protect your business and workers from hackers, data loss and scams

When Governor Chris Sununu passed the stay-at-home executive order, the world went home to work. Starting that day, data security became more complicated.

NH Business Review reached out to data security experts to learn where risk exists, and how to best protect your company’s sensitive information.

Our experts: Mark Benton, Director, Product Management, Systems Engineering. systemsengineering.com ING, PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY and Founder of Matt Mercier, President ONS, THEAcapella LATEST, ABOUT TOWN Technologies . acapella.com

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n What are some of the issues/mistakes you’ve seen businesses make with regard to their data security, as we’ve all been working remotely?

Benton: “The biggest mistake is not knowing who is accessing their business network. As we’ve seen in the headlines, cyber-intelligence companies frequently find stolen credentials (usernames and passwords) on the dark web. It is no longer

enough to allow employees to use credentials alone without a second authentication method, especially when accessing critical business apps with sensitive data. Businesses can address this by adding multi-factor authentication, or MFA. This solution makes it almost impossible for cybercriminals, with a set of stolen credentials, to gain access to a network. MFA requires an extra layer of authentication, such as entering a one-time pin number or facial recognition in addition to credentials. This process ensures the person accessing your network is who they say they are.”

n What are some security issues that people generally don’t know about?

Benton: “‘Shadow IT’ comes to mind.

This term describes those applications and devices employees use for work but are not managed by the IT organization. Examples of some free or freemium shadow IT services are Google Docs, Dropbox and Zoom.

Shadow IT has become more pervasive as a result of the work-from-home shift. The risk lies in sharing or storing business files within these shadow IT apps and devices.

When this happens, the organization loses control of data and exposes itself to a breach. Word to the wise, don’t be too hard

on your staff. Most employees use shadow IT with the good intention of getting their work done. However, organizations need policies that set clear expectations around using office technologies and data. Such policies can significantly reduce the risks brought on by shadow IT. Not to sound like a broken record here, but multi-factor authentication is one security tool that many organizations have not fully adopted. This solution has come a long way in the last few years, and some may still view it as an expensive and cumbersome tool. Today, MFA is a costeffective solution that gives a business the most bang for its security buck. With so many businesses now living in or moving to the cloud, this is an absolute must-have.

It is proven to prevent 99% of attacks via compromised credentials.”

n Are home routers and is residential Wi-Fi secure enough, and what can you do to improve that issue?

Benton:“That depends. Has the employee periodically changed their password and implemented the latest security updates?

What does the rest of their environment look like? Are there other smart devices in the home – like thermostats or light bulbs – connected to the network? These factors all affect the security of a network and are challenging to manage and control.

When working from home, you need to help the employee work as securely as possible. If it’s a personal computer being used for work, have them connect over some form of virtual desktop service. This service isolates the work experience from the home PC. In this scenario, employees should not store company data on their personal computers. It’s best to access the files in the cloud using a company-owned and managed solution like Microsoft Office 365. The best scenario and experience for your employees is to provide them with computers owned and managed by the company. ‘Managed’ means the device identity is known, regular security updates are applied, and anti-virus is up to date and running. In addition, the computer should have full disk encryption and be enrolled in a mobile device management solution.”

n What advice would you give a company whose employees are working remotely right now?

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Benton: “Review your Information Security and Acceptable Use Policies and update them accordingly. If you don’t have these, I recommend you get them done now. These policies give employees clear expectations of handling a business’s sensitive information and devices. These policies include guidance on which files they can share with external parties or to prohibit downloading the coolest looking app to a networked computer. Again, because I can’t stress this enough, in today’s work-from-home environment, deploy MFA and get it adopted company-wide.”

n What concerns, new developments or changes in data security are coming in the near future that people should know about?

Benton: “First, email continues to be the primary vector of attack. It is reported that 95% of all breaches start with a phishing email scam. The more communication and work you can do outside of email, the more secure you will be. Next, there are great collaboration solutions now available, such as Microsoft Teams or Cisco WebEx Teams.

These solutions are bringing people together to work more collaboratively and securely. The ‘Team’ is an exclusive experience by default. With email, anyone who has, or can guess your email address, essentially has access to your inbox. In a ‘Team’ concept, you must be a member of the organization to create or join a team. External members can join a Team, but they must be invited in to take part. Lastly, another other development is the concept of Data Loss Prevention, or DLP. This solution has been available for a while but was only used by large organizations due to cost. DLP allows you to secure individual files so they cannot be accessed by unauthorized users, sent outside the organization, or tampered with once they are transmitted. This is a complex solution to put in place, but it helps avoid the misuse of company data. The good news is the cost for this solution is now in reach of most businesses.”

Benton: “In summary, the above recommendations are part of what is called the modern workplace. Year-over-year the criminals advance their skills and tactics at exponential rates. This means businesses need to keep pace. Can you remember the last time you made a dramatic change to how your business works and secures itself? The Covid-19 response has forced most of us to make some dramatic adjustments. This is a good time to push ahead and keep transforming the way you do business. Adopting a modern workplace strategy moves your business forward with better security, better work processes, and a better work from home experience for your employees.”

MATT MERCIER, ACAPELLA TECHNOLOGIES n For businesses suddenly needing to “work from home,” what are the most urgent needs that businesses face, and what tools are available to help them/ their employees function remotely?

Mercier: “When it comes to an urgent need to work from home, it’s all about ensuring secure, reliable access to data, applications, and systems for employees.

For an optimal configuration, they will need a range of tools - starting with a proper, up-to-date device that’s running a supported operating system. In addition, a VoIP business phone system to make and receive calls, virtual private network (VPN)

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

technology to create a secure, encrypted connection to the network, and a communications platform, such as Microsoft 365, for access to email, calendar, video conferencing and more will be necessary.”

n When employees are working from home, what are the potential security risks that a business owner should be aware of?

Mercier: “Cybercriminals are launching more attacks than ever as they take advantage of the influx of remote workers, alongside the fear and uncertainty we’re all feeling. Phishing attacks and phony domains have increased drastically. Business owners should be aware of any suspicious emails or websites trying to gather sensitive information and/or convince users to click links or download attachments.”

n What advice do you have for companies who may need to migrate their now-remote workforces back to an in-office environment?

Mercier: “I would recommend keeping any remote access or cloud-based tools for added resiliency in the event of a second wave or other form of disruption in the future. The cloud tends to be more affordable compared to on-premises alternatives, so businesses can actually save money keeping the tools they’ve acquired for working remotely.”

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n My operations have changed dramatically since the start of the COVID-19 situation and it’s hard to predict what my business will look like in 3 months, 6 months, a year, etc. I need to come up with a strategic plan to keep day-today operations as smooth and normal as possible, but I’m not sure where to start. What should I do?

Mercier: “The thing about strategic planning is it’s never a one-size-fits-all process.

If you’re serious about creating a strategic plan, I would recommend getting in touch with an experienced technology solutions provider that can assess where you are currently, the technologies you’re using and the challenges you’re facing, and go from there.”

THE NH BUSINESS REVIEW PODCAST THE INSIDER’S GUIDE FROM NH’S BUSINESS NEWS LEADERS

n If there is a second wave, or my company decides that there are a lot of advantages to having employees work from home, what systems should we put in place to implement a smoothfunctioning, remote-working structure for the long term?

Mercier: “Aside from the tools we mentioned above (VoIP business phones, virtual private network technology and a communications platform), I’d recommend ensuring employees have enterprise-grade security measures, including any necessary data backup solutions, on their home devices. This should include anti-virus software, firewalls, intrusion detection software and more. It’s also helpful to enforce a remote work policy that outlines your expectations in terms of hours worked, communication requirements, and technology and cybersecurity specifications to ensure you’re still meeting any necessary regulations or standards.”

Each week, on the Down To Business podcast, NH Business Review’s editors and writers analyze the most important news affecting business in New Hampshire, drawing on firsthand reporting to provide the most timely, insightful and actionable business news analysis in New Hampshire.

SPONSORED BY

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TODAY AND LISTEN WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS.

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Navigating care during the COVID-19 pandemic: How to get the help you need, when you need it Having choices when it comes to your health care decisions is a good thing. But making the right choice about where to go for care can be overwhelming — especially during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Telemedicine access has been expanded for a number of individuals at this time. Of course, there may be some circumstances when you still need to see a doctor in person. Having the information you need to better understand how to access care can help you make the right decisions when health needs arise.

ALL EMERGENCY SYMPTOMS If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms below, call 911 or go to your closest emergency room.

COVID-19 RELATED • • • •

Difficulty breathing Persistent pain or pressure in the chest New confusion or inability to arouse Bluish lips or face

OTHER EMERGENCY SYMPTOMS • Choking • Acute pain • Severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or chest pain • Inability to arouse

MILD COVID-19 SYMPTOMS Are you or a loved one experiencing any other symptoms of COVID-19?

• Fever • Dry cough • Shortness of breath

No

Refer to the guide at right if you have other health concerns.

Yes

ALL OTHER HEALTH CONCERNS For non-emergency symptoms of COVID-19, first call your PCP for their expert opinion.

Your doctor may offer telemedicine so you can have a virtual consultation via your computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Or use Doctor on Demand, a Harvard Pilgrim partner, if your doctor doesn’t offer telemedicine but you still want a virtual visit.

You can consult the CDC Coronavirus Self-Checker to assess your symptoms and whether you should be tested.

Most people with mild COVID-19 symptoms are able to recover at home. Do not leave, except to get medical care. If symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

No

Call your PCP to see if you need an appointment now or can wait.

Your doctor knows your health care needs and can direct you to the best care.

Yes

Try telemedicine, like Doctor on Demand, to get guidance on where and how to receive care.

Telemedicine technology not available?

Call your local urgent care clinic or convenience care clinic for advice on next steps, before visiting in person.

Tips for readiness

What about telemedicine?

Telemedicine is a smart, virtual solution that can help you avoid unnecessary visits to the doctor’s office, urgent care, or the ER. This can help ensure that you don’t put yourself, or others, at risk.

Many providers are now offering video or phone visits. However, if your health care provider does not offer telemedicine services, you can also access these services through app-based telemedicine providers such as Doctor On Demand, a Harvard Pilgrim partner. Doctor On Demand is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Use telemedicine to avoid crowded waiting rooms, reduce your exposure to COVID-19, and help to contain the spread of the disease.

Is your PCP available for a phone call?

If you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing mild symptoms (fever, cough, or shortness of breath), call your health care provider for medical advice first.

Of course, patients experiencing medical emergencies should always head to the emergency room.

No type of acute pain should be delayed in treatment. Chest and severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, new confusion or inability to arouse, bluish lips or face, or severe bleeding are all reasons to go to an emergency room immediately. Serious head injuries should also be immediately checked at an ER.

Visit hphc.org for more information and to see how Harvard Pilgrim is handling coverage for its members.

Save your doctor’s phone number in your mobile phone for easy access. Many practices have coverage for non-office hours, so you likely can reach your doctor or another medical professional who can access your records when necessary.

You can also proactively put a backup plan in place by downloading the Doctor On Demand app from the App Store or Google Play. When an inperson visit isn’t avoidable, the app will also show urgent care and convenience care clinics that are closest to you, including their hours of operation.

MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

Caring for our communities and members, big and small.

We’ve been here for more than 50 years, and we’ll continue to be here for you through this uncertain time with resources to help you navigate your health.

See what we’re doing to help our communities at HarvardPilgrim.org Harvard Pilgrim Health Care includes Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care of Connecticut, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care of New England, and HPHC Insurance Company.

Form No: NH_40113_0520

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HEALTHCARE

Hospitals adapt to changing workforce needs Facilities employ retraining, reassignment as some procedures return

“Those employees are eligible to collect unemployment but maintain their benefits.

While the Covid-19 pandemic has brought Others saw reduced hours and pay reducunprecedented pressure on New Hamp- tions.”

At Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, shire’s healthcare workforce, hospitals have found a variety of ways to adjust their staff- spokesperson Lauren Collins-Cline said, due to a drop in patient volume and revenue, the ing ENGINEERING, to try to minimize layoffs and meet in- FINANCE, HITECTURE, HOSPITALS, BANKING, PERSONAL ENERGY hospital in creased demand in emergency departAND JUMPS, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, OPINIONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT TOWN late April placed 423 employees on a 60-day furlough and either reduced ments.

NSTRUCTION, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, TOURISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE With elective surgeriesLAST andWORD other revenue- hours or pay for an additional 914 employnother TOURISM choice, CALENDAR, generating procedures shut down, hundreds ees, but they too are retooling.

“Over the last two months, we have redeof healthcare workers have been furloughed ployed or retrained people for different roles, and taken pay cuts, but when possible, hospitals are finding ways to reassign and retrain like having nurses who normally work in endoscopy man the phones in our employee on the fly.

Across SolutionHealth’s two locations, health call center and asking others in cliniManchester-based Elliot Health System and cal roles to help with patient screening at our Nashua-based Southern NH Health System, front entrances,” she said. “Healthcare posistaff have also been retrained and rede- tions are often license-specific so retraining ployed, said Kelly Corbi, chief operating of- would also mean relicensing — something that would be impractical during these cirficer.

“This includes physicians, advanced prac- cumstances.” tice providers, nurses, patient care assistants Bringing employees back and more who have valuable skills that could Under Gov. Chris Sununu’s revised stay-atbe applied to areas where we have need. home orders, hospitals are ready to resume An example is a pediatrician who was resome of the revenue-generating activideployed to the emergency department,” ties curtailed in March, giving hospitals the Corbi said. “green light” to resume certain procedures, The economic impact of Covid-19 has been said Collins-Cline. severe across the board but especially for “As our patient volume builds, we are bringhospitals, said Corbi. That has led to caning employees back for the roles needed to celation of nonessential surgeries and other support that patient care. It will be slow at procedures as well as to set up additional first, but we expect to gradually increase in beds in case they’re needed for Covid-19 the coming weeks,” Collins-Cline said. treatment and to stock up on personal proSamantha O’Neill, vice president of human tective equipment supplies. resources at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, “These revenue losses and added expenssaid the facility has not had to furlough or lay es did force us to take measures to stem our off any staff, but many are working reduced losses. In mid-April, we placed roughly 650 hours. employees on furlough status,” said Corbi.

NASHUA REGION LAKES REGION

BY JUDI CURRIE

“We are working very hard to redeploy them to other areas in our facility and that of our sister facilities at Frisbie Memorial Hospital (in Rochester) and Parkland Medical Center (in Derry) to ensure they are receiving their full amount of hours,” she said.

O’Neill said existing staff has been crosstrained to ensure that they can maintain their hours. For instance, many of the nurses who work in the operating room, outpatient clinics and other departments have experience working in the intensive care unit or other inpatient care units and are getting refresher classes to work alongside the nurses on those units.

Sarah Currier, vice president of workforce strategy at Dartmouth-Hitchcock in Lebanon, said that, from the very beginning of the pandemic, the organization has prioritized finding ways to cross-train and upskill employees.

“First, we have created a program called Staff-Match to make sure that employees with skills and availability can be reassigned to different areas of our facility that may need those skills and have openings whenever possible,” said Currier. “Next, we have redeployed employees with specific skill sets, like being trained in how to don and doff personal protective equipment, from their regular jobs to have them teach their colleagues and share that knowledge.”

She added that the Staff-Match program allows D-H to redeploy staff to other areas that are in need, due to additional patient census or staff absenteeism due to child care.

“At this time, we have had limited numbers called off because of the flexibility this program has provided,” Currier said. “We have

also taken this time to train up our staff in critical skills in order to care for potential Covid-19 patients. We are now working on our recovery plan which we know will positively impact staffing needs.”

Hiring continues In April, SolutionHealth put a hiring freeze in place for all nonessential positions. However, Corbi said, it continues to hire essential and strategic roles, particularly respiratory therapists, licensed nursing assistants and environmental services staff.

O’Neill said Portsmouth Regional is still hiring in some areas, but the main focus is to ensure that current staff have the ability to work the hours they were hired for, and the same is true for CMC, where Collins-Cline said the hospital would first bring an employee back from reduced hours or furlough before having a new hire start for a particular role.

“We are still hiring for certain, specific positions directly related to patient care, although start dates will vary widely. We’re hiring in the operating room, as well as for RNs, LNAs and various tech positions,” Collins-Cline said. “We are mostly holding off on hiring for positions that are not directly related to patient care but we still have about 100 openings.”

Dartmouth-Hitchcock is still hiring, said Currier, with a priority placed on filling roles that will help save money by reducing reliance on travelers and overtime or will help facilitate time-sensitive, urgent elective surgeries, procedures and ambulatory visits.

This article is being shared by partners in the Granite State News Collaborative, collaborativenh.org.

Recovery providers worry about meeting needs

BY EMILY DUGGAN

In a May 13 teleconference with Congresswoman Annie Kuster, New Hampshire recovery providers outlined their concerns about meeting the growing need for substance abuse and mental health treatment as the state deals with the pandemic.

The court battle against the Affordable Care Act, set to be heard in October, could threaten the health insurance of up to 200,000 New Hampshire residents, Kuster told a panel of the state’s healthcare leaders, as she introduced recent congressional efforts to aid those that need healthcare assistance.

Kuster focused on the HEROES Act, a federal coronavirus relief package that earmarks $3 billion to support treatment for mental health and substance use disorders in states, especially as the pandemic takes a toll on residents’ mental health and sobriety.

The bill was approved by the U.S. House on May 15 and now heads to the Senate.

“Medicaid is the nation’s largest provider of behavioral health services,” Kuster said. “This administration budget singles out Medicaid expansion for budget cuts, and often, when I think of the response to the opioid crisis here in New Hampshire, I can’t begin to imagine where we would be without Medicaid expansion.”

‘Not enough beds’ The call was attended by providers from hospitals and recovery centers around the state. Many of them expressed concerns about New Hampshire residents being unable to receive treatment that they may need right now. The experts also hinted at admission rates rising because of stress caused by the pandemic and accompanying surge in unemployment.

National statistics show that opioid-related deaths increase 3.5% with every 1% rise in the unemployment rate, said Kim Bock, executive director of the New Hampshire Coalition

of Recovery Residences. New Hampshire’s unemployment rate has surged during the pandemic, from 2.6% in March to roughly 20%. She expects that if the trends stay true to the statistics, that the state will “not have enough beds” in recovery residences.

At the same time, Bock said there has been a drop in the number of referrals and new people coming into recovery programs, even when most professionals agree the need is high.

“There was some sort of flow interruption in treatment,” she said. “People are afraid to go into recovery, to go into treatment right now, afraid to go near any kind of emergency room. They’re afraid of contracting Covid.”

Patrick Ho, a psychiatrist at DartmouthHitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, said that with many people putting off treatment, mental health and substance use disorders can reach a crisis point.

“We are seeing that there are so many more needs that have become apparent because of Covid-19, for our patients that rely

on so many services that we can provide, and some of which are very difficult to find in New Hampshire,” Ho said. “But when those services become even more difficult to access, then we see a lot of crises that could have potentially been prevented.”

With demand for substance abuse treatment and mental health treatment expected to rise, recovery professionals need to prepare for “the other side and what it looks like,” said Shanna Large, director of substance use disorders at Concord-based Riverbend Community Mental Health.

“We want to keep moving forward and having treatment as an option for everyone, because we are very concerned that the backside of this is not only going to show mental health, but substance use,” Large said. “We are going to see a lot, and I’m going to be honest, it’s a little terrifying.”

This article is being shared by partners in the Granite State News Collaborative. For more information, visit collaborativenh.org.

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

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N H B R.C O M

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS HELP KEEP OUR COMMUNITY HEALTHY. On behalf of everyone at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health, thank you. It’s taken the full force of our communities to face the COVID-19 pandemic, and you have risen to the occasion.

We are ever so grateful for our heroic first responders and every single Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health employee. We are also humbled by the generosity and outpouring from our local businesses, community partners and individuals who have given nearly 2,000 monetary contributions, their time and talents and continue to send us donations and messages of support. We could not have done this alone. In-kind donations as of April 28, 2020:

18,615 Sewn masks

740,465 Pairs of gloves

94 Gallons Hand sanitizers

35,739 N95 masks

6,097 Gowns

5,412 Meals/Food Items

51,639 Surgical masks

8,077 Face shields

6 Loaned transportation vehicles

To learn more or make a contribution to COVID-19 relief, visit https://go.d-h.org/covid19-support

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital • Cheshire Medical Center • Dartmouth-Hitchcock • Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center New London Hospital • Visiting Nurse and Hospice for Vermont and New Hampshire (VNH)

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QA &

INTERVIEW

BY JACK KENNY

that decision, with a powerful dissent by Justice Murphy.

n Q. Andrew Napolitano has said the shutdown decisions are unconstitutional because they are essentially legislative decisions

John Greabe, a professor of law at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, recently gave a presentation to lawyers on ‘The Coronavirus and the Constitution.’

(Courtesy photo)

UNH Law Professor

John Greabe

John Greabe is a professor of law at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law in Concord and director of its Warren B. Rudman Center for Justice, Leadership & Public Service. He has taught, among other subjects, constitutional law.

Recently, following social distancing requirements, he gave an online Continuing Legal Education presentation to fellow lawyers on “The Coronavirus and the Constitution.” The following day he fielded the following questions from NH Business Review.

n Q. At what points have coronavirus restrictions run afoul of the Constitution?

A. I guess I’ll give you a legal realist

response. When courts start ruling that the shutdowns have gone too far and constitutional limits have been reached, it will only be when the political authorities continue the shutdown in the face of pressures to lift it. There aren’t a bunch of USINESS SALES ontological lines out there. In the context of emergency orders, courts are very reluctant to second-guess political authoriRecently Sold: ties in real time.

Pure-Flow, Inc., of Peterborough, a

regional leader in the th year n Q. In other sales,words. installation andthey will wners second-guess services after of high purity the fact? systems and filnesses, A. Well, thewater tration equipment has example of that most famous been acquired by you is the Korematsu decision in World War II East Range s! when Japanese-Americans were interred.

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made by the executive branches, namely governors. Do you agree?

A. It’s different in every state. It’s always a question of how far the authorization extends. These governors are all acting pursuant to statutory authorization. n Q. Is there a parallel to the Civil War, when President Lincoln suspended habeas corpus and locked up editors and publishers?

A. Personally, I think that would be overstated. I take it many people are frustrated by orders that interfere with personal liberties. But in the Civil War, both North and South put people in jail for speech. The nation just didn’t have a clear and robust understanding of what the First Amendment means. There is an absolute right to protest, and measures taken to suppress speech based on content are presumptively unconstitutional. But restrictions based on time, place and manner of speech are permissible. n Q. Does this virus emergency trump freedom to gather and protest?

A. I don’t feel like I know enough or have enough information to say. We’re still learning about this virus. n Q. What about the closing of churches and the free exercise of religion?

A. There are really different ideas whether or not churches should receive

special or different treatment. If a group becomes highly contagious, and you start from the premise that you need to limit person-to-person contact, the question becomes, should churches be exempted from rules which apply to everybody else?

But the reality is the premise that the order is issued in good faith because the danger from such gatherings can have an exponential effect as people go out into the community and go home. Then there is the question of overload on our healthcare system. Governments are allowed to take that into account as well.

n Q. If churches were to remain open and require the members to attend, could someone who contracts the virus in church sue the church?

A. You could sue, but I think you’d run into some immunity issues. n Q. What could end the shutdown and the protests?

A. New issues and controversies.

If they develop a vaccine, for example, will we require everyone to take it?

n Q. Do you fear that each time we surrender essential liberties it makes it easier to do so again and again?

A. The reality has been liberty, at least in some respects, was expanded during the 20th century from where it was before.

Eugene Debs was put in prison just for opposing World War I. There is sometimes an impression that there was a golden age of liberty when, in fact, we’ve had from the beginning things like the Alien and Sedition Acts.

History is complicated. I’m not terribly concerned about a one-way ratcheting down of the Bill of Rights because I don’t think that’s accurate.

GO TO NHBR.COM TO READ MORE OF THIS INTERVIEW

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THE LATEST ENGINEERING

for Women & Business Enterprise and Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Certification through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Boldwerks, a Ports-

ANCE, ENERGY OUT TOWN BLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE

Philip Trombley, a licensed professional land surveyor in Maine, has joined the staff of TFMoran’s Seacoast division. He has 10 years of experience in project management and as a crew chief in boundary, topographic, condominium, shoreland development and construction surveys. In addition, John “Jack” McTigue, a civil project engineer at TFMoran, recently received his Professional Engineer license in the state of Maine.

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Applications are being accepted by Leadership Greater Concord

for its next class. The program gives participants a chance to enhance their civic knowledge of the area by gaining exposure to the issues, opportunities and challenges facing the region. For more information, visit ConcordNHChamber. com/Leadership.

Deadline to apply is Friday, June 19.

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Millennium Agency has

again earned Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, or WBENC, certification through the Center

mouth-based marketing firm, has designed a new website for the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, which offers support, encouragement and connection to more than 45 organizations, agencies and associations.

gage Center at St. Mary’s Bank participates in New Hampshire Housing’s Preferred Home Lending, Home Flex and Home Flex Plus programs, which make homeownership possible for low- to moderateincome households.

Salanti named director of Tillotson Fund Sonya Salanti of Bethlehem has been hired by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation as director of the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund, a family of philanthropic funds housed at the Charitable Foundation that support community organizations in Coös County and surrounding communities in Vermont, Maine, Quebec and in Guatemala.

The Tillotson Fund, one of the largest rural philanthropies in the country, distributes about $3.5 million in grants each year.

NONPROFITS

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Following the death in March of Phil Sullivan, Northeast Credit Union’s longtime board chair, Raymond L. Bald, a CPA and a principal of the firm of Cummings, Lamont & McNamee, has been named to replace him.

Terrance L. Beers, a former bank executive who was the founding organizer of a startup commercial bank in southern Maine, has been appointed vice chair.

For the 10th consecutive year, St. Mary’s Bank was recently named a 2019 top 10 outstanding lender by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority for its success

in helping homebuyers obtain affordable financing. The Mort-

Senior Living of Bedford, a nonprofit formed to oversee construction and management of Bowman Place at Olde Bedford, has named Rob McCarthy of Bedford to its board of trustees.

Bowman Place, a $40 million, three-story, 95,000-square-foot community, is scheduled to open in the spring of 2021. It is being built by Eckman Construction of Bedford. McCarthy, who has an extensive background in the hotel and hospitality industry, is founder of Melan Hotel Group, a hotel consulting firm.

Hope Jordan, a pro-

fessional fundraiser, writer and outdoors enthusiast, has been named the new director of membership and development for NH Audubon. Jordan, who most recently served as director of advancement for Amoskeag Health,

previously was director of public relations and marketing for the Currier Museum of Art, and director of annual giving for the University of New Hampshire.

nonprofit that organizes workshops to teach participants skills that help them listen and speak to those with whom people disagree politically.

business and environmental science, to design art history courses around specific themes instead of geographic region or historical periods.

CONSTRUCTION

ENERGY

Brookstone Builders Inc., Manchester,

Sprague Operating Resources LLC

CPA Gina Ferrante has been named chief financial officer of Waypoint, the Manchester-based human services organization.

She previously was director of finance and accounting at Community Teamwork, Lowell, Mass., and has held senior accounting positions at Digital Equipment Corp. and Price Waterhouse.

has been awarded a renovation project by St. Mary’s Bank that involves the complete interior and exterior renovation of a former bank building located at 4 Northwest Boulevard in Nashua.

With a target opening date in the July time frame, the new branch will feature an open concept layout similar to other St. Mary’s locations. Mark Brockelman is Brookstone’s project manager, and Curt Lauer is the project’s architect.

PUBLIC POLICY

EDUCATION

Doug Teschner, a

Sarah Parrish, assis-

former state representative who served as Peace Corps country director in West Africa and Ukraine and provides leadership training and consulting through his business, Growing Leadership LLC, has been named New Hampshire coordinator of Braver Angels, a national

tant professor of art history at Plymouth State University, has received a $30,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support her efforts to reshape the university’s art history program by working with faculty across multiple disciplines, including

has been awarded a Sustainable Impact Award from Tank Storage Magazine at the StocExpo Conference in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Sprague was recognized for its South Portland, Maine, terminal that features a solar storage tank with thin film solar panels applied directly to its roof.

Since its installation in 2017, the solar tank has been producing nearly 100,000 kilowatt-hours of energy per year, the company said.

Freedom Energy Logistics has hired Dan Cwalinski of Nashua as director of contracts and pricing.

Please send items for possible publication in The Latest to

EDITOR@NHBR.COM Include a color photo if available.

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MAY 22 - J U N E 4, 2020

FLOTSAM&JETSAM

Return of the prodigal campaign manager?

Apparently, the prez is starting to get a little antsy as November comes more closely into view and the vision of a coronavirus-scarred economy and double-digit unemployment appears to him during his non-tweeting hours.

Which is why, at least according to a recent piece in Vanity Fair, DJT is thinking about resurrecting NH political genius Corey Lewandowski to help run his re-elect campaign and revive that NASHUA REGION LAKES REGION old 2016 mojo.

A source told VF’s Gabe Sherman that CL has been warning his mentor that “the RNC doesn’t grasp how dire the polls are.”

Said the source: “Corey thinks the GOP isn’t solid on fundamentals. He HITECTURE, ENGINEERING, HOSPITALS, BANKING, PERSONAL FINANCE, ENERGY says the campaign and the party spend AND JUMPS, IN BRIEF, FLOTSAM, LAW, OPINIONS, THE LATEST, ABOUT TOWN time sending out press releases bragNSTRUCTION, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, TOURISM, NEWS, CHARITABLE GIVING, MORE ONLINE ging about how well they’re doing.” nother TOURISM choice, CALENDAR, LAST WORD There is a roadblock or two before CL gets his happy return to Trumpworld Center Stage, however, and it’s a big

Ya gotta know when to hold ‘em

Lewandowski: Corey v. Jared redux? one that has proved insurmountable before. According to VF, First Son-inLaw Jared Kushner just can’t take a liking to CL, who he forced out of the ’16 campaign, you may recall.

All of which essentially makes CL something of a Trumpworld barometer.

If he does return to the fold in a senior role, it’s all the proof you need that things are getting desperate at 1600 Pa.

Ballot boxing

Sometimes you just have to go with the hand you’ve been dealt. And nothing says that more at this point in the pandemic than the way the NHGOP has tripled down on Trumpism. Because, for better or worse, that is the only hand they have.

And how do you play it? Well, if you look at communications from the NHGOP itself, you just turn on the echo chamber and let ‘er rip.

Consider a recent flyer distributed by the NHGOP looking for more than a few good men and women to run for NH House seats. It asks: “Are you interested in becoming a State Rep? Do you, or anyone you know, want to be on the ballot together with President Trump?”

And what’s their charge? Why, it’s to battle “the plague of the liberal Democrats who have taken over the legislature in New Hampshire.”

“Plague,” get it? Can’t get more Trumpian than that, can you?

Realistically though, it’s the only play they can make as they bid to regain past glory, especially in the NH House. After all, NHDems recorded a 66-seat swing there in 2018, they will be happy to remind you. They can also remind you that the head honcho reason for that swing was that one Donald J. Trump, while not officially on the ballot, was there in spirit. And the results weren’t pretty, in NH and elsewhere.

What else can a loyal GOPer do but go to the well once more?

Like old stories that start sounding so repetitive you don’t really pay attention anymore, the Libertarian Party of NH is once again raising a ruckus about ballot access in NH. And, as the story often ends, good luck with that.

Considering the Covid situation, the LPNH has asked the guv to waive the 3,000-signature requirement so its candidates can be on the ballot. The argument goes that the petitioning process poses a public health threat.

And Darryl Perry, the LPNH’s guv candidate has found a pair of powerful folks who support the party’s proposal.

Quoting SOS Billy Gardner and AG Gordon MacDonald, DP pointed out, “voters shouldn’t have to choose between health and [their] right to vote” and that means, said DP, “unless petitioning requirements are suspended, our state officials are requiring minor party and independent candidates to choose between health and their constitutional right to be a candidate.”

But logic doesn’t often work in politics, especially in a place like NH, where the two major parties have a death grip on the process and on third-party access to the ballot.

To wit: The guv replied a few days after the LPNH request, “I’m not going to do anything about it. That’s not my concern.”

To which the LPNH has said it will file suit.

To which the guv said, “That’s fine.”

Which, in other words, means, “I’ll see you in court.” Where, BTW, the Illinois Libertarians recently won a similar suit.

Perry: Healthy reasoning

MAKING THE ROUNDS  While the jury’s obviously still out on what’ll be happening in November, at this point in the election process the guv race is the guv’s to lose.

 $200k for the NH House to hold remote sessions at the Whittemore Center at UNH? That’s five years of reps’ salaries.

 Matt Mowers, one of the Two Matts running for the GOP’s 1st CD nod, has found a Big Issue in his race, attacking China. Which is either misguided or completely buries Tip O’Neill’s “all politics is local” adage.

 Not for nothing, but a big fat issue is just waiting for someone in the GOP congo races, although it’s highly unlikely that anyone will pick it up, since it involves the inept administration of the federal small business relief programs under the CARES Act.

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