Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover Announces Highest Honors Students

Stephen Foley, Upper School Principal at Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover, announces the students who have achieved Highest Honors from the class of 2011. These students have maintained a weighted numeric grade average of at least a 96 from the first quarter of freshman year through to the third quarter of senior year. Commencement is set for Saturday June 11 at 10 a.m. at Bethany Church in Greenland.

Karissa LeClair, valedictorian, is the daughter of Bob and Sue LeClair of York, ME. Karissa will be attending Boston College in the fall and will pursue a pre-med path while majoring in biology. Karissa was also accepted at Boston University, Brandeis University, and Northeastern University.

Karissa has maintained highest honors status while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She has played varsity basketball for four years, and served as a captain in her senior year. She volunteers with the non-profit organization Coaching Our Youth, which aims to bring sports to disadvantaged children. In addition, she has coached junior high boys’ football in York, as well as junior high girls’ basketball at PCA.

Karissa was chosen as a College Board National Hispanic Scholar. In her sophomore year, she was a winner of the Colonial Dames essay contest, which provided her with a scholarship to attend the weeklong Washington Workshops in Washington, D.C. Additionally, she was chosen to the NHIAA Girls Division Four Basketball All-Star Team for the 2011 season.

Karissa attends Connect Community Church in Portsmouth, where she volunteers as a nursery worker. She has played AAU basketball for the Seacoast Storm during the fall and spring seasons throughout her high school career. Karissa works for the family-owned company Shore-Built Construction during the summer.

Leah Pervere, salutatorian, is the daughter of Mike Pervere and Rebecca Barnes-Pervere of Somersworth, NH and Fairfield, CT. Leah will be attending Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the fall and will pursue a degree in Biochemistry. She was also accepted to the UNH Honors Program.

Leah has maintained highest honors status for the past four years at Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She will be graduating with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) diploma. Leah has been a member of the girl’s Tennis Club for the past four years. She was a member of the Math Team for two years and a member of the Spanish Club for three years.

Leah has received a WPI Chemistry & Biochemistry Merit Scholarship. In her junior year, she was a winner of the Colonial Dames essay contest, which provided her with a scholarship to attend the weeklong Washington Workshops in Washington, D.C. During her sophomore year, Leah’s science fair project won second place in the chemistry category at the New Hampshire Science and Engineering Exposition.

Leah works part-time as an Aftercare Assistant at PCA’s after-school care program. She plays the trumpet, and has performed in the Dover Community Band for the past four summers. She also volunteers frequently for New Hampshire State Parks.

Veronica Anatone is the daughter of Kate and Chris Anatone of Dover, NH. Veronica will be attending Springfield College in the fall to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy (DPT). Veronica was also accepted to physical therapy programs at Boston University, Ithaca College, and the University of Vermont, as well as health science programs at Quinnipiac University, the University of Connecticut, the University of Rhode Island, and the University of New Hampshire.

Veronica maintained high honors status while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. Veronica has been a member of the Ambassadors Club all four years of high school and has played at the varsity level for the PCA Eagles’ volleyball, basketball and softball teams. Veronica received numerous state recognitions for volleyball and softball, and plans to play volleyball for Springfield College in the fall.

Veronica’s academic and athletic accomplishments earned her a President’s Achiever Scholarship from Springfield College. Veronica was also recognized with the NHIAA Scholar Athlete Award her senior year.

Veronica has worked full-time during the past five summers as a camp counselor. Veronica also participated in domestic and international community service events with The Timberland Company, City Year and Cocheco Valley Humane Society.

Eric Baker is the son of Alfred Baker of Springvale, ME and Lynn Brooks of Lebanon, ME, and the stepson of Emily Baker and Tim Brooks. He will be attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he will pursue a degree in nuclear engineering. He was also accepted to the University of Michigan, the University of Wisconsin, Penn State University, Purdue University, and the University of Illinois.

Eric achieved highest honors status all four years while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. He has participated on PCA’s Quiz Club throughout high school. During his senior year, Eric served as captain of the team, and led the team to a semi-final berth in NHPTV’s Granite State Challenge, the New Hampshire Quiz Bowl League Seacoast regional championship and state finals, and first place in the state in the fall 2010 Knowledge Master Online competition. During his sophomore, junior and senior years, he was a member of the Math Team, which won its district championship all three years. He also played varsity baseball for three years and recently earned a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Eric has received the Comcast “Leaders and Achievers” scholarship, as well as a merit scholarship from RPI. He was also a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist. In his sophomore year, Eric was a winner of the Colonial Dames essay contest, winning a trip to the Washington Workshops in Washington, D.C.

Katii Capern is the daughter of Mike and Donna Capern of Dover, NH. She has maintained high or highest honors at Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She was accepted to American University, Clark University, UNH Honors Program, Ryerson University, University of King's College in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and University of Toronto. Passionate about photojournalism and world cultures, she will pursue her interests as a photography major at Ryerson University in Toronto, Ontario.

Katii has been an avid participant in PCA theater for five years, helping both on and off the stage in eight productions, culminating in her fall 2010 lead role in The Curious Savage. She has been a member of Student Council for three years, and was copy editor of the PCA yearbook as a sophomore and junior. She has been involved in Quiz Club, International Club, Ambassador's Club, and other school activities. Last fall, Katii was also one of four PCA semi-finalists on NHPTV's Granite State Challenge.

She has regularly contributed her photos and creative work to several communications venues and arts opportunities at her school and church. She enjoys dancing as well as playing piano and guitar, and has performed at school coffeehouses. At St. John's United Methodist in Dover, Katii's involvement has included music, dance, youth group, and helping at VBS summer programs. She worked at Tuttle's Red Barn and also volunteers at the Children's Museum of New Hampshire. In February 2011, she traveled on a mission trip to New Orleans, documenting the team's experiences while rebuilding Hurricane Katrina-damaged homes. This summer, Katii will participate in the Leaders-in-Training program at her summer camp, Wanakee.

Molly Joyce is the daughter of David and Erica Joyce of Stratham, NH. Molly will be attending Boston University in the fall and will be studying biology. She will also be completing a pre-medical requisite to pursue a career as a doctor. Molly was also accepted at Fordham University, the University of Vermont, Fairfield University, Providence College, and the University of New Hampshire.

Molly maintained highest honors status while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She served as a member and president of the Pink Ribbon Club, an organization that raises money for breast cancer research and gives assistance to cancer stricken patients. Molly also participated in International Club every year.

Molly attended the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in 2010. She also participated in Phillips Exeter Summer School for the past three summers. Molly plays tennis year round. She participated in the tennis program at PCA for all four years. Molly has taken piano lessons for ten years and often entertains residents at nursing homes, and is involved in volunteer work including Habitat for Humanity.

Jennifer Lee (Jenny) is the daughter of Woodrow and Maureen Lee of Kennebunk, ME. Jenny will be attending Cedarville University in the fall and will pursue a degree in elementary education. Jenny was also accepted to Eastern Nazarene College and The Master’s College. Jenny has received a Cedarville University Academic Excellence Scholarship and a Diversity Scholarship as well.

Jenny has maintained high honors status while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She participated on both the junior varsity and varsity volleyball teams as a middle blocker. Jenny has also served as a member of the Missions Club/World Vision Club throughout her high school career, and she has traveled to Belize, Central America twice on mission trips. Her first trip was during her freshman year, where she was an active participant in building a house for a single mother with three children, conducting Vacation Bible School lessons for hundreds of Belizean children, and also helping organize classrooms and cleaning up the mission compound. It was during these trips that she realized that God was calling her to teach children and to pursue a career in the field of education.

Jenny was homeschooled during her second semester of her sophomore year, as well as her junior year. While maintaining an excellent high school GPA both at PCA and in home school, Jenny took six college courses totaling 15 college credits at York County Community College in Wells, Maine.

Jenny attends Messiah Christian Church in Wells, Maine, where she is an active member of the worship team, a Sunday school teacher, a youth group member, and volunteer for church events. Jenny also works as a file clerk and cleaner at Seacoast Medical Care in Biddeford, Maine where she has been employed for a few years.

Kylie McCoy is the daughter of Joseph and Jacqueline McCoy of Hampton, NH. Kylie will be attending Northeastern University in the fall, where she will be competing in cross-country and track for the NCAA Division 1 Huskies. Boston University, Clemson University, Syracuse University, Duke University, the University of South Carolina, and the University of Mississippi, among others, also recruited Kylie. She is currently contemplating communications, public relations, and pharmacy as potential majors.

Kylie has maintained high honors status while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She attended Winnacunnet High School through her junior year, where her achievements included cross country and track Scholar-Athlete Award, high honor roll student, member of the Math Team, Astronomy Club, and a National Forum on Medicine at George Mason University nominee. She transferred to Portsmouth Christian Academy her senior year and has enjoyed continued success academically and socially.

Kylie attends St Theresa’s Catholic Church in Rye, NH, where she is an active member and frequent altar server. Kylie works part time at Hollister Clothing store at Fox Run Mall. This past fall, Kylie competed in the Miss Teen USA Pageant. In her spare time, Kylie spends time relaxing with her family, her sisters, Molly and Mercedes and her friends.

Sarah Pease is the daughter of Chip and Cathy Pease of Dover, NH. Sarah will be attending Northeastern University in Boston, where she will major in English. She was also accepted at Stonehill College, the University of New Hampshire Honors Program, and DePaul University’s Honors Program.

Sarah has maintained high honors status while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She served on Student Council, and was involved in Prom Committee and International Club. Sarah played four years of soccer and basketball for PCA. This year, she also helped coach the junior high girls’ basketball team. She was selected to the New Hampshire Basketball Coaches’ Organization Academic Honor Roll both junior and senior year and received the NHIAA Scholar Athlete Award this year.

In her junior year, Sarah was a winner of the Colonial Dames of America National Essay Contest, which provided her with a scholarship to attend the week-long Washington Workshops seminar in Washington, D.C. She also received a Dean’s Scholarship to Northeastern University. Sarah was a member of a mission’s team from her church, Durham Evangelical, and traveled to Haiti in 2009, and she plans to return this summer.

Kelley Plante is the daughter of Ken and Elaine Plante of Dover, NH. Kelley will be attending Drexel University in the fall and will pursue a degree in music industry on a significant annual scholarship. Kelley was also accepted to New York University, University of Southern California, Northeastern University, and Belmont University.

Kelley has maintained high or highest honors while attending Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She served as a leader and as a vocalist on the worship team for four years, and was appointed to other school-wide leadership roles in her senior year. Kelley also worked on the Prom Committee and led the Coffee House Committee.

Outside of school, Kelley works at the clothing store Pac Sun in Kittery, ME. Kelley has danced with Brixham Dance works for many years and was a member of the Senior Repertory Company. She took piano, guitar, and music theory lessons throughout high school and enjoys playing at open mic nights around the seacoast area. Kelley performed in musicals and with different choral groups as well.

Kelley will continue to play guitar, ukulele, and sing in small venues throughout college. She plans on using her musical abilities and training as well as her music industry degree from Drexel to become a music producer.

Ellen Scire is the daughter of William and Penny Scire. She is finishing her high school education in three years, and will be graduating with high honors. Ellen has been accepted to Simmons College, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, the University of New England, Wingate University, Emmanuel College, and the University of Connecticut. As well as being accepted to these schools, Ellen has received several merit scholarships, and a Presidential Scholarship from Simmons.

In addition to her academics, Ellen participates in various clubs that her school offers, such as Missions Club, Pink Ribbon Club, Prom Committee, and Spanish Club. She is also an active runner, and works as a camp counselor during the summer.

Victoria Stahre is the daughter of Nancy Aldrich and stepdaughter of Stephen Aldrich of Durham, NH. Victoria will be attending the University of Miami in the fall, pursuing a degree in business administration specializing in accounting.

Victoria was also accepted to the University of New Hampshire, University of Vermont and Emory University’s Oxford College.

Victoria has maintained high honors for all four years at Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover. She also served as Class Treasurer for the past three years, planning and assisting with many student programs and events. She was copy editor for the 2011 PCA yearbook. Victoria was also a member of PCA’s volleyball team for all four years including varsity, primarily playing defensive specialist.

Victoria has been an active volunteer at Portsmouth Regional Hospital throughout her high school career, working at registration and assisting patients in many capacities. She also works part time as a Sales Associate at the Polo Factory Store in Kittery, Maine.

Ai Tran is the son of Hien Tran and Sau Mai of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Since arriving in the United States, Ai has lived with his guardian, Stephen LaBranche of Hampton, NH. Ai will be attending Tulane University in New Orleans with a merit scholarship in the fall and will pursue a degree in Chemistry.

Ai has maintained highest honors status since entering Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover his sophomore year. During his three years at PCA, Ai has been a member of PCA’s Quiz Club and also the Math Team, winning top team and personal awards in local and state math competitions. He is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. During Ai’s junior year, he was the recipient of the Rensselaer Medal Award for excellence in mathematics and science. He also earned the highest GPA in AP Calculus and AP Chemistry during his junior year. In his senior year, Ai won first place for upperclassmen in the Life Science category at the annual school-wide Science Fair.

Ai attended Winnacunnet High School for his freshman year, where he achieved high honors and completed the International Student Exchange Program.

Ai has assisted at the annual Hampton Beach Seafood Festival for three years, and has also volunteered over 150 hours to clean up the beach.

Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover is located in Dover, on a 50-acre riverside campus. PCA is the largest independent Christian school in New England. The Academy is a regional school bringing together approximately 600 students from three states for preschool through grade 12. PCA is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). PCA's Upper School is accredited by NEASC. PCA is approved for attendance by the state of New Hampshire.

Service Credit Union on hand for the unveiling of Army Monument

PORTSMOUTH (May 31, 2011) – Service Credit Union Executive Vice President William Newman was in attendance at the unveiling of the United States Army memorial Monday in Boscawen. Service Credit Union acknowledges the significance of this monument, which recognizes the brave men and women of New Hampshire who have sacrificed for our freedom.

New Hampshire Governor John Lynch thanked New Hampshire Air Force veterans for their dedication and service at Monday’s event for the State of New Hampshire Army Monument, located on the Memorial Walk at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery.

Service Credit Union donated generously to the New Hampshire Army Monument Committee earlier this year. On hand to accept to the donation from Service Credit Union President/CEO Gordon Simmons were David W. Follansbee, Board of Directors of New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery Association and also a member of the New Hampshire Army Monument Committee and Brigadier General Ret. Stephen Curry, Army Monument Committee Chairman.

“Service Credit Union and its members have a long history of supporting our brave men and women who serve in the military and this contribution continues that tradition,” says Gordon Simmons, President/CEO of Service Credit Union. “Our roots came from a military base when the credit union opened in 1957 and now extends to service members around the world. Therefore, it seems especially fitting with our strong connection to the military that we contribute to this worthy cause.”

The Army Monument is a tribute to soldiers of many generations, both past and present. It incorporates many natural elements such as grass and evergreens which allow it to blend well with the natural beauty of the wooded lot area.

Service Credit Union is a past supporter of the New Hampshire chapters of the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) and the Air Force Association (AFA) for the NH Air Force Memorial Fund.

Service Credit Union is a full service financial institution, offering a wide range of financial products to its members. With 35 branch locations including two staffed 24/7 contact centers, and full internet banking services, Service Credit Union serves anyone who lives or works in New Hampshire (excluding Coos County), 4 towns in Cape Cod, MA., and all branches of the U.S. Military and Department of Defense employees and their families. With over $1.8 billion in assets, Service Credit Union has 18 branches in New Hampshire, one in Massachusetts, and 16 branches on U.S. military bases in Germany.

Caption: Service Credit Union Executive Vice President Bill Newman, left, stands with Brigadier General Ret. Stephen Curry, left, Chairman of the New Hampshire Army Monument Committee after the unveiling of New Hampshire Army Monument.

Colonel Paul Hutchinson, left, Commander 157th Air Refueling Wing, New Hampshire Air National Guard (NHANG), at Pease Air National Guard Base, New Hampshire, stands with Service Credit Union Executive Vice President Bill Newman during the Memorial Day unveiling of the Army Monument located on the Memorial Walk at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, N.H.

Service Credit Union Boston-Portsmouth Air Show to feature premier air demonstration performers

PORTSMOUTH (May 25, 2011) – Service Credit Union Boston-Portsmouth Air Show will bring an elite lineup of air demonstration performers to the Seacoast August 13th and 14th.

Headlining the show will be the United States Air Force Thunderbirds with their breathtaking display of speed, skill, power and precision. The Thunderbirds are the air demonstration squadron of the U.S. Air Force, based at Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, Nevada. The squadron tours the United States and much of the world, performing aerobatic formation and solo flying in specially-marked USAF jet aircraft. They will make their first appearance in the Seacoast in over 20 years.

Joining the Thunderbirds will be the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team. For more than 44 years the Golden Knights have been wowing audiences at air shows, competitions and most recently, with high profile tandems.

The show also features the USN F/A-18 Super Hornet, the Navy’s premier fighter and attack aircraft in a display of speed and skill; Michael Goulian and Sean D. Tucker, 2008 National Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee who flies backwards, straight down and tail first along with many other elite air acts.

Proceeds from the air show will help support two organizations, Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire and the Daniel Webster Council Boy Scouts of America as well as a multitude of other New Hampshire nonprofit organizations including Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The contribution to the Brain Injury Association will assist the state organization in developing programs to heighten public awareness regarding safety and prevention and to further develop current support and resource programs for survivors and their families of brain injuries.

The Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire is a private, non-profit, family and consumer run organization representing over 5,000 New Hampshire residents with acquired brain disorders and stroke. The BIANH was founded in 1983 by New Hampshire parents seeking to bring home their brain injured children from out of state nursing homes.

The Daniel Webster Council, Boy Scouts of America serves more than 16,000 youth throughout New Hampshire with programs that build character, teach citizenship, and encourage physical fitness. Over 5000 adult volunteers support Scouting programs in the state, and local groups contribute hundreds of thousands of “good turn” service hours in their communities annually.

Service Credit Union is a full service financial institution, offering a wide range of financial products to its members. With 35 branch locations including two staffed 24/7 contact centers, and full internet banking services, Service Credit Union serves anyone who lives or works in New Hampshire (excluding Coos County), 4 towns in Cape Cod, MA., and all branches of the U.S. Military and Department of Defense employees and their families. With over $1.8 billion in assets, Service Credit Union has 18 branches in New Hampshire, one in Massachusetts, and 16 branches on U.S. military bases in Germany.

Press Conference Announcing 25th Anniversary of Cochecho Arts Festival

Please Join Us

At a Press Conference Announcing the

25th Anniversary Cochecho Arts Festival 2011 Season Line Up & Logo

Wednesday, June 1 at 3:00 pm

at the

Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

550 Central Avenue, Dover NH

Join the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce board, volunteers and staff on Wednesday, June 1 at 3 pm at the Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center to be the first to hear the Cochecho Arts Festival's 2011 season line up. Chamber officials will announce the festival’s Friday Night Concert Series featuring local and regional music, The Tuesday Children’s Series showcasing popular family events, the popular "Shark in the Park" Summer lunch time concert series featuring many of the areas most popular rock bands and the Wednesday Market Series featuring “unplugged” acoustic music.

In addition to the season’s schedule, the 25th Anniversary Cochecho Arts Festival logo will be unveiled and the 2011 Festival website will be launched providing a history of the Festival, directions to Henry Law Park, news articles, information on how to get involved, and much more.

Please RSVP to molly@dovernh.org to confirm your attendance so that we will have a media kit ready for you! Thank you.

BIGHORN film

Nathaniel Philbrick, Pulitzer Prize-nominated author of the New York Times Bestseller THE LAST STAND, applauded our film BIGHORN on his blog today, calling it "an ingenious and demented intermingling of the Battle of the Little Bighorn with the New England Patriots."

Here's the link... http://nathanielphilbrick.com/blog/from-garry-owen-to-messing-about-in-a-boat.

We had a fantastic, packed joint event last Friday night at the Red River Theatres in Concord, NH, with Nat Philbrick that included a screening of BIGHORN. The film opens with a quote from the book and legendary Custer re-enactor Steve Alexander appears in both. Saturday, the Custer Association of Great Britain featured BIGHORN at their annual Gathering in Kendal, Cumbria, England, where the town hall clock chimes "Garry Owen".

BIGHORN will next be screened on the morning of June 24 at the Little Bighorn Symposium in Hardin, Montana, sponsored by the Custer Battlefield & Museum Association. The screening will be followed by the 18th Annual Real Bird re-enactment of the Battle of the Little Bighorn on the original battlefield, six miles from Hardin on the banks of the Little Bighorn River, with Steve Alexander portraying Custer.

BIGHORN can be viewed online at www.BighornMovie.com

We have several feature films in pre-production and will also be announcing our next short film project shortly.

Grant secured for Ageless Dreamer®

Thomas F. Levasseur, CLU,CLTC, of Dover, New Hampshire, secured a $ 2,500. grant from the MDRT Foundation on behalf of Ageless Dreamer®. Levasseur, of the Beacon Retirement Group and MDRT member, is an active supporter of Ageless Dreamer® and nominated and endorsed the grant application. Ageless Dreamer® is a non profit organization that raises the level of awareness for the wisdom, talents, and knowledge of our oldest generation enhancing their quality of life in the process. The MDRT Foundation grant will help Ageless Dreamer® expand its programs providing more opportunities to help others fulfill their dreams. Visit www.agelessdreamer.org for more information.

This year, the MDRT Foundation will award more than $ 850,000. USD in grants to more than 100 charities. Representing the MDR Foundation, Levasseur presented this grant to Ageless Dreamer during a special event on May 18 at Maple Suites, Dover, NH to celebrate the occasion.

The MDRT Foundation was created in 1959 to provide MDRT members with a means to give back to their communities. Since its inception, the Foundation, the Foundation has donated more than $ 26 million in 80 countries around the world and in all 50 U.S. states. The majority of these funds were raised by MDRT members from MDRT members.

The MDRT Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Million Dollar Round Table, the Premier Association of Financial Professionals®. Founded in 1927, MDRT is the Premier Association of Financial Professionals, an international, independent association of more than 34,000 of the world’s life insurance and financial services professionals from more than 80 nations and territories. MDRT members demonstrate exceptional product knowledge, strict ethical conduct and outstanding client service. MDRT membership is recognized internationally as the standard sales excellence in the life insurance and financial services business.

Service Credit Union helps Somersworth Safe Haven summer program for fourth straight year

PORTSMOUTH (May 24, 2011) – The children of Somersworth Youth Safe Haven Program will now enjoy an enhanced summer program thanks to another generous donation of $3,000 from Service Credit Union.

This is the fourth consecutive year the credit union has stepped up with a substantial donation for the summer program, and saved the program from closing its doors. With this contribution, the safe haven staff can rest assured that it can help children with an enhanced summer program.

“We are able to extend the program, provide activities and field trips this summer,” says Betty Eaton, Director of Safe Haven program. “If it wasn’t for Service Credit Union and their help, we would not have this top quality program. I can’t say enough about their phenomenal support.”

The program mentors youth ages 6 - 18 in an afterschool homework lab, activities program, gym program, community service opportunities, and a six-week Summer Program. It aims to give youth the tools they need to grow up to be who they are. One of their main focuses is giving youth a place to do their homework and get help if they need it. There are always staff and volunteers on hand to make sure the youth's homework is all done.

The Youth Safe Haven program is designed to help low-income at-risk children ages 6-18 who live mainly in the Somersworth Housing Authority homes or are referred by the local SAU. The program currently helps more than 50 children from working low-income families. During the summer program, the children begin by performing community cleanup service during the first week. They also participate in a summer reading program, nutrition and cooking classes are educated in health and personal hygiene.

The children also take trips to state parks, beaches and cultural events. Nutritious lunches, snacks and drinks are provided to them daily.

“We are extremely fortunate that we are able to aid our community in this important and vital way,” says Gordon Simmons, President/CEO of Service Credit Union. “Service Credit Union strives to be a leader in corporate citizenship, supporting non-profit and educational programs in the communities which are served by the credit union. Somersworth Youth Safe Haven Program fits into our vision of helping others.”

Caption: Service Credit Union Somersworth Branch Manager Patty Coffin and Assistant Marketing Manager Aimee Sundstrom join Somersworth Housing Authority Assistant Director Emily Sylvain and the children of the Somersworth Safe Haven program as they hold the $3,000 donation check from Service Credit Union to go toward their summer program.

2011 SEACOAST BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION

Wednesday, June 15, 2011, 10:00 a.m. -- 11:30 a.m.

Pierce Atwood

Pease International Tradeport

1 New Hampshire Avenue, Suite 350

Portsmouth, NH 03801

The Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, The Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce, Greater Somersworth Chamber of Commerce, New Hampshire Business Review and The business & Industry Association of New Hampshire

>more information & registration link

Citizens Bank presents $47,000 in High School Achievement Awards to 47students throughout New Hampshire

MANCHESTER, N.H. – Citizens Bank has presented $47,000 in High School Achievement Awards to 47 graduating seniors from high schools across New Hampshire.

The Citizens Bank High School Achievement Award is given to qualified high school seniors who plan to continue their education at a college, university or vocational/technical school. The awards are given to one student per high school in New Hampshire communities where Citizens Bank has a branch presence. The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation administers the scholarship program and selects award recipients based on defined criteria which include financial need, academic merit and other non-academic factors such as community service, school activities and work experience.

“These students deserve to be honored for their achievements,” said Joseph Carelli, president of Citizens Bank, New Hampshire. “We are pleased to provide financial assistance to New Hampshire students aspiring to further their education. Particularly with rising costs of education, we hope this award of $1,000 each will help offset some of their college expenses.”

Students from the following schools were awarded $1,000 each:

Southern Region:

High School Achievement Awards were awarded to 15 students: Jordan Shea, Londonderry High School; Zachary Chabot, Manchester Central High School; Nicholas Oeberlies, Manchester Memorial High School; Ariel Wilson, Manchester West High School; Richard Rafferty, Campbell High School (Litchfield); Tamanna Ghandi, Souhegan High School (Amherst); Sarah Condon, Alvirne High School (Hudson); Ashely Wheeler, Milford High School; Megan Dalton, Merrimack High School; Kaylee Murray, Nashua High School North; Nathaen Tenney, Nashua High School South; Timothy Boucher, Goffstown Area High School; Cherie Filistowicz, Pelham High School; Stephanie Cabral, Salem High School; and Anna Martin, Pinkerton Academy (Derry).

Greater Concord:

High School Achievement Awards were awarded to five students: Chrisinda Lynch, Concord High School; Margaret Trier, John Stark Regional High School (Weare); Laura Wolfe, Bow High School; Craig Paggi, Pittsfield High School; and Nathan Merryow, Merrimack Valley High School (Penacook).

Western Region:

High School Achievement Awards were awarded to seven students: Richard Dillehay, Stevens High School (Claremont); Jared Geilich, Hanover High School; Nathan Sanderson, Hinsdale Jr./Sr. High School; Katie Carbonara, Keene High School; Lucy Bergwell, Lebanon High School; Jonathan Hanninen, Monadnock Regional High School; and Emily DiPadova, Newport Middle High School.

Seacoast Region:

High School Achievement Awards were awarded to seven students: Jassen Lu, Exeter Area High School; David Sheehy, Winnacunnet High School (Hampton); Lauren Nevin, Portsmouth High School; Marie Ainaire, Somersworth High School; Allen Ma, Dover High School; William Soucy, Raymond High School; and Alden Coffin, Spaulding High School (Rochester).

Lakes/North Country Region:

High School Achievement Awards were awarded to 13 students: Anna Vaughan, Kingswood Regional High School (Wolfeboro); Jasime Brousseau, Canaan Memorial High School; Brooke Judd, Pittsburg High School; Courtney Aernathy, Plymouth Regional High School; James Sullivan, A. Crosby Kennett Jr./Sr. High School (North Conway); Liza Tetley, Lin-Wood High School (Lincoln); Kelly Ainsworth, Inter-Lakes High School (Meredith); Kyle St. Hilaire, Berlin High School; Amy Cass, Laconia High School; Robert Briggs, Franklin High School; Caitlyn Cennamo, Gilford Middle/High School; Asenath Brooks, Colebrook Academy; and Audriana Mekula, Winnisquam Regional High School (Franklin).

About Citizens Bank

Citizens Bank is a division of RBS Citizens, N.A., operating its seven-state branch network in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. It has 82 branches and 203 ATMs in New Hampshire.

RBS Citizens, N.A. is a subsidiary of Citizens Financial Group, Inc., a $132 billion commercial bank holding company headquartered in Providence, R.I. CFG’s two bank subsidiaries are RBS Citizens, N.A. and Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania. They operate a 12-state branch network under the Citizens Bank brand in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont, and the Charter One brand in Illinois, Michigan and Ohio. CFG has non-branch retail and commercial offices in more than 30 states. CFG is owned by RBS (The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc). CFG’s website is citizensbank.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY ENTERS 'POST-DIGITAL' AGE: 120processing.com Brings Old-School Photo Lab to Internet

Photographers are returning to film in droves. To serve them as they go 'back to the future,' 120processing.com is bringing the old-school local photo lab to the Internet, offering developing of medium-format/120 film by mail.

Believe it or not, photographers are returning to film in large numbers, and an enterprising photo lab is serving them by combining their experience in traditional film photography with the networking and sharing powers of the Internet.

Recent months have seen a movement to revive film. People frustrated with the impersonality and blandness of digital images have remembered what drew them to photography in the first place: personal control of expression and quality. Unfortunately many local photo labs have been driven out of business, so photographers are turning to the Internet for their processing needs. One of the few surviving independent labs, Photosmith Imaging in Dover, NH, has begun http://www.120processing.com, a website offering film developing by mail to Internet customers.

“It’s the best of the old and of the new. For years we were a Main Street business. I knew what each of our customers wanted—whether they preferred 3x5 or 4x6, matte or glossy,” says Steve Frank, who has owned Photosmith Imaging for thirty years. “Now we are offering that same personalized service on a broader scale. And since the Internet lets us take our business nation-wide, we’re able to offer very competitive prices for film processing. We are small in size, but more experienced than most. We cater to people on a personal basis, the same as if you come in to our brick-and-mortar operation.”

http://www.120processing.com will also use the Internet to recreate a community of people interested in photography—what the Main Street photo lab used to be. The website has a facebook page, where photographers can meet each other and share images, as well as a monthly contest with a prize of free processing.

Over the last several years digital photography revolutionized the genre—people captured thousands of images, deleted most of them immediately after taking them, and edited out imperfections. Photographers lost images when their hard drive crashed or when their online image warehouses folded. Customer Mark Stevens appreciates the careful craft of film photography. “I'll never stop shooting film,” he says. “I love the process. It forces me to slow down and study the composition and light in each frame. I find it very relaxing to get back to the basics of photography, and it’s great to have www.120processing.com to do the developing.”

Retro? Owner Steve Frank doesn’t think so. “This has been our way of doing business -1391552839 and making images for decades. We are trying to find customers who want and appreciate the same things.”

Rochester District VNA is having their first Hospice Fundraiser

They invite you to their Hospice Garden Tour on Saturday, June 25th 10am-3pm

Rain date, Sunday, June 26th from 10:00am – 3:00pm…..$10.00pp….Tickets can be purchased at Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association, Studley Flower Gardens and Rochester Care Pharmacy.

Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association is also offering Bereavement Support Groups each week.

There is no commitment by those attending to continue for any given length of time.

The sessions will be every:

Tuesday from 10:30am to 11:30am

Thursday from 4:30pm to 5:30pm

Location: Frisbie Memorial Hospital Education and Conference Center – Carroll Room

If you would like more information or would like to register, please call the Hospice Department, Bereavement Counselor at 332-1133.

Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association is pleased to announce the addition of Hospice to their specialty programs.

Hospice is a holistic approach to caring for people who have a terminal illness. It involves a team of trained specialists available 24 hours a day, who provide medical attention, pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support tailored to an individual's needs and wishes. Hospice is not a place- it’s a concept of care that can be provided anywhere that a patient calls home such as in a private residence, nursing home, assisted living or hospital. Our hospice team also provides compassion and support to grieving loved ones during the illness and for up to one year beyond the loss. Rochester District VNA’s Hospice is the only not for profit Hospice program in Strafford County.

City of Dover News

Memorial Day services in Dover set for Monday, May 30

City Manager | Executive

Memorial Day services in Dover will be held Monday, May 30, at 6 p.m., at Pine Hill Cemetery.

The guest speaker will be Cmdr. James D. Spotts of the Coast Guard Cutter USS Tahoma.

James Parcell of the Dover Veterans Council and event organizer will serve as master of ceremonies.

Dover Mayor Scott Myers will begin the ceremony with welcoming remarks.

Other participants include Lt. Daniel Wither, U.S. Navy, who will deliver the invocation ; Placing of the Wreath by Gold Star Mother Marie McGlone of Dover, whose son, Michael, was killed in the Vietnam War, Bette Talon, American Legion Auxiliary president, and Lauren Zucaro, Auxiliary chaplain; the Dover High School Jr. ROTC; firing of volleys and Taps by the Marine Corps League; and the Dover High School Band, leading the national anthem. The Gettysburg Address will be recited by Julia Boudreau of Dover High School.

The Memorial Day ceremony is held each year in Dover on the traditional date of May 30.

GIRL SCOUT LEARN DEFENSE AGAINST THE DARK ARTS

DOVER, NH – Girls Scouts from all over the Dover area learned ‘Defense Against the Dark Arts’ from Master Randall of Matt Randall’s Black Belt Academies during their annual Summer Camp. The annual summer camp was held on Saturday, May 21, at Lion’s Camp Pride in the beautiful rustic wilderness of New Durham, NH.

Almost 250 girls representing the Girl Scout troops of the Dover area spent the weekend doing all sorts of fun activities that centered on a Harry Potter theme. They learned herbology, astrology, and defense against the dark arts. Senior Master Instructor, Matt Randall, taught the girls how to protect themselves from ‘dementors’ and ‘you-know-who’ by developing greater self-confidence and using their communication skills, as well as developing personal power through kicking and punching drills.

“In our classes, we teach leadership and life skills above physical skills. I taught the girls how to develop confidence through understanding communication and allowed them all the opportunity to practice being a leader. Along the way we learned some speed and power through punching and kicking drills.” Says Master Randall, “But, what I really hope they remember from the class is how to use the four aspects of communication to become leaders in their troops, their classrooms, and their communities.”

Matt Randall’s Black Belt Academies have been serving the Seacoast’s self-defense and fitness needs since 1987. We specialize in creating leaders who are strong, confident, and disciplined. For more information or questions about our academies, please visit www.mrbba.com.

Seat Belt Challenge T-Shirt Design Contest Winners

PDF of winning design by senior Meaghan Morrison of York, ME

Left to right, Chris Meyer, Outreach officer, Dover PD; STA Art Teacher Paula Maskwa, Abbey Raiche, Meghan Williams, Meaghan Morrison, Howard Hedegard, NH Traffic Safety rep. from the Injury Prevention Center at Dartmouth.

Students from St. Thomas Aquinas High School submitted all three of the winning entries for the 2011 Seat Belt Challenge t-shirt design contest. Howard Hedegard from the Injury Prevention Center at Dartmouth presented senior Meaghan Morrison of York, ME with this year's first place prize, junior Meghan Williams of Greenland, NH with the second place prize, and freshman Abbey Raiche of Dover, NH with the third place prize. The students received cash prizes for their winning entries which were chosen from over 150 entries received from high schools throughout the state.

Paula Maskwa, art teacher from St. Thomas Aquinas and Officer Chris Meyer of the Dover Police Department also participated in the awards ceremony.

The contest is this year’s graphic design effort of the Buckle Up New Hampshire Coalition. The Coalition is a group of highway safety advocates who are committed to improving seat belt usage rates statewide through educational efforts.

Meaghan Morrison, as first place winner, had her design printed on t-shirts given to students from over 40 high schools who participated in this year’s seat belt challenge. The challenge is an annual effort to remind high school students that it only takes a brief moment to buckle up and that seat belts save lives and reduce the risk of injury.

The three winning entries were displayed at the NH traffic safety conference and will be used throughout the coming year at various highway safety events designed to educate people on the importance of wearing their seat belts.

The Buckle Up New Hampshire Coalition and the Seat Belt Challenge are programs funded and promoted by the New Hampshire Highway Safety Agency.

Located in Dover, NH, St. Thomas Aquinas High School is a coeducational, Catholic high school community where young people are called to be challenged academically, to stretch their hearts spiritually and to embark on a journey to make a difference. For more information, visit STA at www.stalux.org or call (603) 742-3206

Local High School Students win National Essay Contest and Scholarship Will attend “Congressional Seminar” in Washington, D.C.

DOVER, NH — Two students from Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover will receive a one-of-kind educational opportunity provided by the National Society of The Colonial Dames and the Washington Workshops Foundation.

Sophomores, Emily Scire of Dover, NH and Andrew Cunningham of York, ME won a national essay contest sponsored by the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA). Essay winners receive a full scholarship to attend the 2011 Congressional Seminar this June 18–24 in Washington, D.C.

Emily Scire is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Scire of Dover, NH. Andrew Cunningham is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Cunningham of York, ME.

Presented by the Washington Workshop Foundation – a nonprofit educational organization located in Washington, D.C. – the Congressional Seminar engages qualified high school students in active legislative simulation during a week-long Model Congress. Playing the roles of freshman representatives, speakers, lobbyists, and caucus leaders, participants work to draft, revise, and hopefully pass a bill through a vote of their seminar peers.

Additionally, seminar participants – who hail from 30 states and social backgrounds - enjoy lectures, site visits and personal interactions with Washington, D.C.-based policy makers, professionals, and Representatives.

The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America actively promotes national heritage through historic preservation, patriotic service, and educational projects. Founded in 1891, the NSCDA is an association of 45 Corporate Societies with over 15,000 members. The Society headquarters are located in Washington, D.C. Programs and projects include the annual national essay contest.

Since 1967, the Washington Workshops Foundation has provided experience-based, educational travel programs to highly motivated, academically prepared, and inquisitive students from across the United States and around the world. The majority of these programs have brought students to Washington, D.C. for a more comprehensive understanding of leadership, civic education, federal government, U.S politics, and global affairs.

This year’s NSCDA essay topic was related to George Washington’s warning against the advent of political parties in his 1796 Farewell Address.

Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover is located at 20 Seaborne Drive, Dover, NH. PCA offers a challenging academic curriculum from preschool through high school along with competitive athletic programs and other stimulating extra-curricular activities. For more information, visit the school’s web site at www.pcaschool.org or call 603.742.3617.

ST. THOMAS SPANISH STUDENTS SCORE WELL

Congratulations to several world language students from St. Thomas Aquinas High School who attained national recognition for excellent performance on the 2011 National Spanish Examinations.

Students from St. Thomas earned a total of one gold, two silver and four bronze medals along with 18 honorable mentions. "Attaining a medal or honorable mention for any student on the National Spanish Examinations is very prestigious," said Kevin Cessna-Buscemi, National Director of the Exams, "because the exams are the largest of their kind in the United States with 140,373 students participating in 2011.”

STA students have a long history of high achievement on these exams. Richard Rainville, Erin Murphy, Kristin Carmichael, Miriam Hanlon and Jacqueline Zick are the teachers of students honored in the 2011 NSE.

Nationally, junior Chelsea Flanagan of York, ME garnered a “gold” recognition (95th percentile or higher); freshman Jake Jermyn of Dover, NH and junior Eric Gilmore of Exeter, NH scored in the “silver” category (in the 85th to 94th percentile); those attaining “bronze” level scores (75th to 84th percentile) were sophomore Jay Carmody (Exeter, NH), sophomore Alison Hiatt (Newington, NH), junior Gabrielle Ouellette (Epping, NH), and junior James Klingensmith (Nottingham). Receiving honorable mention were Michelle Dunbar, Blaire Fenniman, Jordyn Palmer, Julia Robison, Sarah Gianino, Anna Whitham, Bridget Kelly, Hayley Lewis, Amanda Girard, Alex Pollock, Jack Quinn, Matt Radford, Hae Min Park, Katherine Foster, Katherine Duncan, Emily Antaya, Justin Corriss, and Kelsey Gallagher.

Three students also won recognition in state of New Hampshire – all at the Advanced Level: Chelsea Flanagan attained first place, while Senior Sarah Gianino of Eliot, ME and senior Anna Whitham of Stratham, NH secured fifth and sixth places respectively.

The National Spanish Examinations are administered each year in grades 6 through 12, and are sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

Located in Dover, NH, St. Thomas Aquinas High School is a coeducational, Catholic high school community where young people are called to be challenged academically, to stretch their hearts spiritually and to embark on a journey to make a difference. For more information, visit STA at www.stalux.org or call (603) 742-3206.

George Watsky, the 'Fast Rapper', at Matt Randall's Black Belt Academy

DOVER, NH - George Watsky, the ‘Fast Rapper’, who you may have seen on the Ellen Show, was at Matt Randall’s Black Belt Academy in Dover today filming another YouTube video called “Danger”. George was invited to be on the Ellen Show after she was impressed with the speed at which he could rap a song. The video of George Watsky rapping fast on the Ellen Show is available on YouTube by searching his name.

“I was contacted by one of our Black Belts, Eric Baker, who is working in Los Angeles for a television company. He said that George Watsky and his crew would be in the Boston area filming for a new video and they wanted to do some footage inside a martial arts school. I was happy to be able to provide a suitable location at our Dover academy,” says Matt Randall, founder and Senior Master Instructor. “Actually, this is the third time that our academy has been chosen for a scene in a movie. We have been featured in “The Present” and the “The Flip Side”. Working with this young crew was very fun. I love to see creative genius in action.”

Part of the video will feature Mr. Gene Paltrineri as a martial arts instructor for the student, George Watsky. In reality Mr. Paltrineri is an instructor at Matt Randall’s Black Belt Academies in Dover and Stratham working his way toward becoming a school manager. While this scene will be a very small piece of the video, we are quite pleased that George chose our academy to film his video. “Mr. Watsky is a bright and talented young man. It’s fun to watch him in action. I suspect he is just getting started in the entertainment industry and will go far. Big thanks to Eric Baker for introducing Mr. Watsky to our academy,” says Master Randall.

Be sure to check back with YouTube in the near future for the release of George Watsky’s music video, “Danger”, coming soon. You will also find more information on his FaceBook page.

Matt Randall’s Black Belt Academies have been serving the Seacoast’s self-defense and fitness needs since 1987. We specialize in creating leaders who are strong, confident, and disciplined. For more information or questions about our academies, please visit www.mrbba.com.

Federal Savings Bank Supports the American Cancer Society

Dover – Federal Savings Bank recently pledged $2,500 to sponsor the American Cancer Society’s Annual Relay for Life Walk talking place at the track of Spaulding High School in Rochester on June 25-26. This year marks the fourth year FSB has supported this worthy cause.

In addition to the corporate sponsorship a group of FSB employees along with a group of friends and family members, have been working diligently to raise additional funds. The team, which will actively participate in the overnight walk, have conducted raffles, held fundraisers through Tastefully Simply, Partylite and Lia Sophia and have organized a bake sale with all proceeds benefiting their relay team: Friends Smiling Back. The group has already accumulated over $2,000 in donations with several fundraising events still on the horizon.

“The Relay for Life is a great way for everyone to get involved with the ACS. It is a fun and meaningful way to not only raise money, but to remember and honor friends and family members who have been affected by cancer,” according to team co-captains and sisters Kimberly Smith and Kelly Glennon, who lost their father to pancreatic cancer just one year ago. “This is our way to help make a difference and support the millions of people impacted by this terrible disease,” they added. The Friends Smiling Back team’s next fundraiser is a June 4th yard sale taking place on Dover Point Road.

Since 1890, Federal Savings Bank has operated as a true community bank, a “mutual” bank. The bank has offices in Dover, Barrington, Durham, Portsmouth and Rochester. For more information, call toll free 1-800-462-2265, visit www.fsbdover.com or www.facebook.com/FederalSavingsBank.

City Council to hear proposal to eliminate more than 800 City street lights Community Services

A resolution before the City Council on Wednesday, May 11, calls for the removal of 823 street lights throughout the City. The City Council will refer the resolution to a public hearing on Wednesday, May 25.

The City of Dover spends about $275,000 a year to power 1,779 street lights. The reduction of lights is estimated to save the City $103,385.04 each year, as well as lower the City's carbon footprint and light pollution.

Director of Community Services Douglas W. Steele II said crews have reviewed all street lights in the City to identify which lights can be removed without affecting public safety. Lights along Central Avenue, in the downtown and densely populated areas, will not be removed. Lights selected for removal are now identified with red ribbons.

The 823 street lights consist of 738 standard lights and 91 decorative lights. Decorative lights are typically self-contained.

Public Service of New Hampshire estimates the cost of removing the lights is $158,555.

Steele said PSNH does allow residents to "adopt" a light and assume the energy cost. Steele said the City is still working out the details of that process with PSNH. Lights "adopted" by residents must be designated as such before the lights are removed by PSNH.

The City Council meets on Wednesday, May 11, in Council Chambers at City Hall. The City Council meeting begins at 7 p.m.

For more information on the proposal, contact Community Services at 516-6450.

The proposed list of street lights to be removed follows, sorted by street name and pole number. The first portion of the list represents standard street lights. The second portion of the list details decorative lights.

The list can be found on the City's website at http://www.dover.nh.gov.

Brian W. White, MAI, SRA appointed Vice President of the New Hampshire Chapter of the Appraisal Institute

This year, White will represent the New Hampshire chapter at the Appraisal Institute’s National Conference being held in Las Vegas, Nevada. White holds both the MAI (Member Appraisal Institute) and SRA (Senior Residential Appraiser) designations. The MAI designation is awarded to appraisers who are experienced in the valuation and evaluation of commercial, industrial and residential properties while the SRA designation is awarded to appraisers who are experienced in the analysis and valuation of residential property. White has complied 27 years of real estate appraisal experience working in the Seacoast New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire areas. White operates White Appraisal, located in Dover, New Hampshire, a real estate appraisal firm that specializes in the appraisal of commercial, industrial, investment and special use properties.

Laconia Savings Bank Sponsors Keynote Speaker Samantha Brown at the Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism

Photo Caption (L-R): Valerie Drouin, Senior Vice President – Prestige Plus Manager for Laconia Savings Bank; Samantha Brown, keynote speaker for The Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism.

Hampshire – May 13, 2011 - Laconia Savings Bank was a major sponsor at this year’s Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism showcasing keynote speaker, Samantha Brown. As a television host of travel-related shows, Samantha is known for her energetic personality and enthusiasm for the travel industry. She is respected by travel professionals and revered by her audience for her commitment to delivering new and in-depth information about destinations.

The NH Travel Council produces the annual NH Governor's Conference on Travel & Tourism each spring. The conference site moves each year to highlight different parts of our beautiful state. This year the conference was held in Bartlett at the Attitash Grand Summit Hotel and Conference Center on May 5 and 6.

Founded in 1974, The New Hampshire Travel Council has continually evolved to enhance and encourage the development of the travel and tourism industry in NH. The Travel Council provides news that businesses can use through its electronic newsletter. Their website serves as a portal to a variety of organizations and additional resources of which businesses may not otherwise be aware.

Valerie Drouin, Senior Vice President, represented Laconia Savings Bank at this year’s conference. “The conference offers those in the travel and tourism business an opportunity to network with other business professionals, and provides a venue to stay informed on issues that have the potential to impact businesses throughout the state. This year’s event was especially successful with the bank’s sponsorship of Samantha Brown, host of several Travel Channel shows. Samantha shared many of her travel experiences and was very happy to be back visiting the state where she spent her early years as a proud graduate of Pinkerton Academy.”

Drouin has managed Laconia Savings Bank’s Prestige Plus travel program for the past 22 years. It has proven to be one of the most successful bank travel programs in United States. The program currently has over 6,000 members with many traveling to destinations such as Africa, Australia and many European destinations. Monthly day trips are also planned for destinations all over New England. Laconia Savings Bank customers appreciate the time and attention the bank takes to plan every detail of their experience.

If you would like to learn more about Laconia Savings Bank’s Prestige Plus program, please call Valerie Drouin at (603) 527-3207.

Lconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

New

Portsmouth Christian Academy at Dover to Hold Informational Meeting

Dover, NH - Portsmouth Christian Academy is now accepting applications for the 2011-2012 school year. There is an informational meeting and campus tour scheduled for parents interested in preschool through grade 12 on Thursday, May 19, 2011, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at 20 Seaborne Drive.

A presentation about the Academy will be given by Mr. Brian Bell, Head of School. Dr. Connie Lawrence, Lower School Principal, Mr. Steve Foley and teachers will be available for questions. The purpose of the informational meeting is to acquaint interested families with the many opportunities available at Portsmouth Christian Academy.

Portsmouth Christian Academy has an enrollment of over 600 students from New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts, making PCA the largest independent Christian school in New England. Applicants must exhibit a strong desire to learn, a record of academic achievement and a strong moral character. PCA has a selective admission process, low student-teacher ratio and before and after school programs. Tuition assistance is available.

For more information and application forms, please contact Mrs. Diane Sipp, Director of Admissions, at 603-742-3617, ext. 116, or email dsipp@pcaschool.org. Please visit PCA’s website, www.pcaschool.org, for directions to its 50-acre campus in Dover, NH.

St Thomas' Episcopal Church presents "Three for one:

An evening of Song" featuring the Seacoast Men of Harmony, the Fourth Street Jazz Choir, and the Mac Daddy Quartet on Sunday, June 12th at 7:00 PM. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit My Friend's Place, Dover's homeless shelter. Donations will be accepted at the door. There will be a dessert reception in the parish hall after the concert. St Thomas' is located on the corner of Hale Street and Locust Street across from the Dover Public Library and next to City Hall. (603) 742-3155 www.stdover.org

The Seacoast Men of Harmony is a Dover-based chorus that was established in 2005 for the enjoyment of singing in the tradition of barbershop harmony. The chorus performs throughout the region in concert, at senior centers, holiday events, and at the upcoming Strawberry Festival in Berwick on June 25th.

The Fourth Street Jazz Choir is a 12-15 voice chorus that performs standard jazz repertoire arranged for chorus and piano. Now in its 7th season, their concerts help raise money for local charities as well as having a great time singing together!

The Mac Daddy Quartet is a barbershop quartet with members that live in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. They are high energy, entertaining and strive to be the "newest and most hip quartet on the scene!"

The Garrison Players' invites the public to their Annual Pot Luck Dinner

The Garrison Players’ invites the public to their Annual Pot Luck Dinner on Sunday, May 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Garrison Players Arts Center on Route 4 in Rollinsford. This fun event is open to the public and there is no charge, but attendees are asked to bring a favorite “Pot Luck” dish to share. The 2011 Guppy Awards will be presented, as will the new “Minnow Awards” for participants in the youth program. Soft drinks, utensils and paper goods will be provided.

At the Annual Meeting, Garrison Players will announce the upcoming 2011-12 season’s shows, and introduce the new Board of Directors. Anyone interested in learning more about community theater, Garrison Players, or in joining a committee or volunteering with Garrison Players is also encouraged to attend.

GARRISON PLAYERS TO HOLD ANNUAL AWARDS PROGRAM

DOVER, NH – The Garrison Players’ will celebrate their 2011 volunteers, cast and crew members at their Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Garrison Players Arts Center on Route 4 in Rollinsford. This fun event is open to the public and there is no charge, but attendees are asked to bring a favorite “Pot Luck” dish to share.

The 2011 Guppy Awards will be presented, as will the new “Minnow Awards” for participants in the youth program. All Garrison Players members, former cast members, and the general public are invited to attend. Families are welcome! Soft drinks, utensils and paper goods will be provided.

At the Annual Meeting, Garrison Players will review the 2010-11 season, announce the upcoming 2011-12 season’s shows, and introduce the new Board of Directors. Anyone interested in learning more about community theater, Garrison Players, or in joining a committee or volunteering with Garrison Players is also encouraged to attend.

Garrison Players is a nonprofit, volunteer-based community theatre group dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the area by presenting high-quality theatrical performances geared for family audiences. Established in 1953, the players encourage people of all ages to enjoy and participate in the many facets of the performing arts; and to maintain the Garrison Players Community Arts Center. For more information about Garrison Players, call (603)516-4919 or e-mail info@garrisonplayers.org. Visit the website at www.garrisonplayers.org.

Garrison Players Presents "Don't Dress for Dinner"

Garrison Players, the Dover area’s community theatre group, presents “Don’t Dress for Dinner”, a farce/comedy by Marc Camoletti and adapted for the stage by Robin Hawdon, at the Garrison Players Arts Center, Route 4 in Rollinsford, June 3-12, with Friday and Saturday evening shows at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tickets, at $15 for adults and $10 for students, are available by calling 750-4ART, or online at www.garrisonplayers.org.

Profile Bank Celebrates gold Sponsor of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life

ROCHESTER – Profile Bank is celebrating eight years of being a gold Sponsor of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. “Over the years, Profile Bank employees have supported this very important fight against cancer by hosting yard sales, bake sales, Italian dinners and more” states Ken Wilman, President of Profile Bank. This year the fundraising events included employee luncheons, meals-to –go, and a fundraiser supported by McDonald’s, just to name a few. Back by popular demand, Profile Employees will be hosting a Bake Sale on June 3^rd at all of the Profile Bank branches. Please stop by and delight yourself with a homemade treat while supporting a very important cause.

Profile Bank, established in 1907, is a locally owned and managed true community bank. With branches in Rochester, Alton, Sanbornville and Somersworth, Profile Bank is committed to support and invest in their communities. For more information on Profile Bank or their products and services, visit their website at www.ProfileBank.com or call (603) 332-2610.

In this photo from L to R: Ken Wilman, President of Profile Bank; Janet Hand, Executive Vice President of Profile Bank; Jessica Keravich, Teller at Profile Bank; Lynne Bushway, Assistant Treasurer for Profile Bank, and representing the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Gary Brock and Tara Dickey.

New Hampshire’s Premier Lessor is proud to announce our Strategic Partnership with the New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association.

Because of this new merger, we’ll be able to offer our new and current customers and vendors a wide variety of personalized, local services.

As always, we’ll provide:

Professional, experienced support

Fast approvals – within 24-hours

Customized programs

Low upfront costs

Now, for NHLRA members, we’ll also include:

FREE in-state document delivery

Optional in-person document signing

Half-price doc fees

Watch for a special webpage dedicated to NHLRA members with even more savings and specials in the near future. www.KingswoodLeasing.com/NHLRA

Kingswood Leasing is a family-owned and operated business that began on the shores of Lake Winnipesauke in Wolfeboro, NH. Currently located in Dover, NH, Kingswood Leasing continues to support its community through charitable giving and awareness campaigns. Proud to be a part of our New Hampshire business community, KLI is dedicated to helping you grow your business and maintain the economy of our beautiful state. As NH’s Premier Lessor for over 20 years, we know NH and we’re here to help you.

To get started, call 603-516-5222 today or apply online at www.KingswoodLeasing.com!

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS

Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association is offering ongoing bereavement support groups each week.

There is no commitment by those attending to continue for any given length of time. Feel free to drop in for one session or as many sessions you choose.

The sessions will be every;

Tuesday from 10:30am to 11:30am

Thursday from 4:30pm to 5:30pm

Location: Frisbie Memorial Hospital

Education & Conference Center - Carroll Room

Please call Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association

Hospice Department with any questions 332-1133

The City of Dover has been registered as a team for Commute Green Week to compete against towns and cities across NH!

All employees and volunteers for the City are encouraged to participate by registering now at www.commutegreennh.org, and log all your green miles during the week of May 16-20th as a City of Dover team member. Let’s win the state prize!

At the end of that week enjoy a free breakfast in celebration of your efforts (see attached flyer for locations).

Celebrate Commute Green New Hampshire May 16-20, 2011

New Hampshire’s regional planning commissions, state agencies, transit organizations, and businesses are working together to host the biggest and most exciting Commute Green New Hampshire in state history! This year, the Commute Green New Hampshire is challenging employers, municipalities and schools to reduce 50,000 vehicle miles travelled from May 16-20 as part of the Statewide Challenge.

What is Commute Green New Hampshire?

Commute Green New Hampshire is the annual promotion to encourage citizens to choose inexpensive, healthier and more environmentally-friendly transportation options. The goal is to carpool, bicycle, walk and use public transportation to work, school, shopping and similar trips from May 16-20, which coincides with National Bike/Walk to Work Day on May 20.

The promotion challenges you to track their commuting activities during that week.

The Facts:

· U.S. families spend about $9,000 a year on transportation costs.

· More than 22 percent of all motor vehicle trips Americans take are less than one mile in length, and 50 percent of the working population commutes five miles or less to work.

· One car emits about 20 pounds of carbon dioxide per gallon of gasoline it uses, but each New Hampshire resident can reduce the equivalent of about taking two cars a year off the road just by carpooling, bicycling, walking or using public transportation three days a week.

Many thanks to our sponsors:

C&J Bus

COAST Bus

Holy Rosary Credit Union

New Hampshire Coffee Roasters

Adelle’s Coffeehouse

For more information call the Planning Office at 516-6008 or email m.alexander@dover.nh.org

Brian W. White of White Appraisal appointed VP of the NH Chapter of the Appraisal Institute

Brian W. White, MAI, SRA has been appointed Vice President of the New Hampshire Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. This year, White will represent the New Hampshire chapter at the Appraisal Institute’s National Conference being held in Las Vegas, Nevada. White holds both the MAI (Member Appraisal Institute) and SRA (Senior Residential Appraiser) designations. The MAI designation is awarded to appraisers who are experienced in the valuation and evaluation of commercial, industrial and residential properties while the SRA designation is awarded to appraisers who are experienced in the analysis and valuation of residential property. White has complied 27 years of real estate appraisal experience working in the Seacoast New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire areas. White operates White Appraisal, located in Dover, New Hampshire, a real estate appraisal firm that specializes in the appraisal of commercial, industrial, investment and special use properties.

2011 Legislative Bulletin #19

Attached is this week’s bulletin. SB3 relating to a comprehensive set of reforms to the NHRS is scheduled for a Committee of Conference session today to begin hammering out a compromise. Although this will sound like a rerun from a past episode, the Senate’s version of SB3 addresses in a coordinated and complete manner the many types of changes necessary to help control the ever escalating retirement costs being imposed on communities. The Dover Mayor and Council along with municipalities across the State of NH continue to hold the position that supports these necessary changes in the NHRS.

Also noteworthy regarding both NHRS reform and downshifting of the State’s obligation for costs associated with teacher, police and fire retirement costs, HB2 relating to the overall State budget, contains provisions that appear to be using the expected savings from the proposed retirement reforms in SB3 as the “state contribution,” thus justifying the elimination (aka downshifting) of the State’s obligation. Except for the legislative action proposed in HB2, these savings would remain with the local property taxpayers in the form of further reductions in NHRS cost increases.

Lastly, also mentioned previously, please be aware of the previously tabled SB133 relating to the telephone pole tax exemption for telecommunications company and its potential to resurface. The targeted tax exemption that would be implemented by this bill continues to be opposed by the Dover Mayor and Council along with municipalities across the State of NH.

9TH ANNUAL RONALD G. PIEROG MEMORIAL GOLF OUTING

ROCHESTER – Profile Bank is once again hosting their Annual Ronald G. Pierog Memorial Golf Outing. This year’s outing will benefit Profile Bank’s Scholarship Fund, Homeless Center for Strafford County, and the Unaccompanied Youth Program at Spaulding High School.

The Outing is scheduled for July 26th. Registration begins at 9am and there will be a social hour from 3-4 with dinner served at 4pm. For more information on how to become a sponsor, or to sign up to play, please contact Carole Luedtke at (603) 332-2610 x113.

Profile Bank, established in 1907, is a locally owned and managed true community bank. With branches in Rochester, Alton, Sanbornville and Somersworth, Profile Bank will continue to support and invest in their communities well into the future. For more information on Profile Bank or their products and services, visit their website at www.ProfileBank.com or call (603) 332-2610.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School Spring Concert - “A Salute to America” Wednesday, May 25 at 7pm in the School Gymnasium

This year, the St. Thomas Aquinas High School Spring Concert, “A Salute to America,” will have a very special message. The musicians will be honoring our men and women in uniform as well as remembering those who have lost their lives serving our country. As we approach the 10th anniversary of September 11, 2001, this concert will also serve as a musical tribute to those who lost their lives on this tragic day.

There will be performances by the St. Thomas Aquinas Concert Band, Concert Choir, Jazz Band and Chamber Singers. St. Thomas will open the concert with a very special tribute to our Armed Forces with a moving performance by the combined Concert Band and Concert Choir. This concert will include traditional patriotic classics like The Star Spangled Banner and a march by John Philip Sousa, as well as folk favorites like The Yellow Rose of Texas. It is sure to be an emotional and inspiring night for audience members as well as the musicians who have been looking forward to this concert since September.

Free and open to the public. Please join St. Thomas on this very special night! Veterans or men and women currently serving are encouraged to wear their uniforms for this musical event.

Located in Dover, NH, St. Thomas Aquinas High School is a coeducational, Catholic high school community where young people are called to be challenged academically, to stretch their hearts spiritually and to embark on a journey to make a difference. For more information, visit us at www.stalux.org or call (603) 742-3206.

DOVER — Growing up in Toronto, Ontario, Neil MacGregor noticed early on it took him much longer than his classmates to read simple passages or write.

MacGregor was left "exhausted" after trying to piece together the foreign-looking symbols in his books, and eventually developed ways to get through school by skipping some assignments altogether and solely relying on classroom instruction rather than opening his books.

"I went through high school never reading a textbook," said MacGregor, who said he wasn't truly "illiterate," but wasn't far off in elementary school due to his reading difficulties. "It was a miracle I got the grades I got."

MacGregor was able to get into college, though, in 1999 — despite a 73 average and a teacher telling him he'd only be "a waste of time and money" — thanks to a national study that looked at what students with learning disabilities needed to succeed in a normal college setting.

It was through his time at college MacGregor discovered a computer-based program that changed the way he learned and helped him graduate at the top of his class despite the fact he was reading at a 7th-grade level.

MacGregor also discovered an ability to help others with reading and writing problems, and now, about seven years after graduating, MacGregor has made a career out of instilling some of the compensating skills and tools he learned in other struggling individuals.

MacGregor, now 31, is the vice president of learner development at ST4 Learning Inc., a Dover-based company that is the United States distributor of goQ literacy software.

MacGregor travels the country and holds webinars to aid struggling students and adults, and trains teachers to use the programs — all work he said he enjoys because it allows him to help people deal with many of the issues he still encounters today.

"The real joy is when I get a chance to sit down with the kids and show them a tool they never thought existed," said MacGregor. "It's that moment when they realize reading isn't scary, awful or something to be avoided. They just look at you like, 'Wait a sec — gamechanger.' It's that gamechanger moment that I live for, because I've been there."

The gratification of those moments come often, as ST4 Learning serves the entire nation and its parent company, goQ, is an international company.

MacGregor and his company has been in Dover since December 2009, and he's logged more than 70 flights across the country and held countless seminars to help a variety of individuals from elementary school students to chief executive officers at multimillion-dollar companies.

MacGregor said he doesn't serve as a "tutor" directly to the students, but he does spend a lot of time with students when he helps get the wordQ and speakQ software, which also comes in multiple languages and can be used by foreign language students, up and running in school districts.

One such school is the Cochecho Arts and Technology Academy, a Dover charter school that MacGregor said has been using the program for a few weeks.

The school was given free copies of the software to help its students, and MacGregor said free copies are being given to everyone within the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce as a way to create ubiquitous local usage of the program as a way to show how it can change a community.

"A lot of people don't learn to be better writers when they go to school to learn what to do in careers" such as law enforcement or automotive repair, said MacGregor. "The idea is if we make a hotbed of this type of application and innovation, we can get the story going statewide and used everywhere."

That universal usage through providing easy access to the software is what MacGregor said his end goal is, as despite changes in the way learning disabilities and learning difficulties are perceived he said many individuals still don't get all the help they need.

"The overall idea is to provide software to people," he said. "Although I have a learning disability and I have a paper that says it, the software doesn't care. It's to help anyone who's struggling with reading or writing at any age level."

More information about ST4 Learning and the goQ software is available at goQsoftware.com.

Comcast Renews Support for City Year With $20 Million Commitment

Three-Year Partnership Expands Leadership Development, Media Sponsorship and the In School & On Track initiative.

May 5, 2011 - Washington, DC - Today at City Year's annual National Leadership Summit, Comcast announced a three-year commitment of $20.3 million in cash and in-kind support for the national non-profit organization. This partnership renewal brings Comcast's total cash and in-kind support to more than $75 million since the relationship began in 2003. As a National Leadership Sponsor, the highest corporate sponsorship level available, Comcast will invest in teams of young leaders serving in schools, in leadership development programs and in efforts to raise awareness of City Year's campaign to keep students In School & On Track.

"Comcast is proud to continue supporting teams of City Year AmeriCorps members in our shared markets," said David L. Cohen, Executive Vice President of Comcast Corporation. "Comcast values the opportunity to positively impact the leadership development of thousands of City Year staff and corps members across the country so they can have an immediate impact on the success of thousands of students in some of the lowest performing schools in the United States."

As City Year's National Leadership Development and Training Partner, Comcast supports various leadership programs across the country that prepare City Year corps members to help students graduate and succeed. Comcast is also the Presenting Sponsor of City Year's Summer Academy, an annual training academy attended by more than 800 City Year corps, staff and educators as they prepare to launch their service year. Additionally, Comcast will host Career Development Days, workshops aimed at readying City Year's young leaders for college and careers, in each of the 12 Comcast-City Year shared markets (Little Rock, AK, Los Angeles, San José, Miami, Chicago, Boston, Detroit, Denver, Philadelphia, Seattle, Washington, DC and New Hampshire).

As a Platinum Team Sponsor, Comcast will expand their support of City Year teams to nine cities across the country, including a new team in New Hampshire and a founding team sponsorship in Denver. Each team of corps members, young leaders ages 17-24, help turn around high-need schools by working directly with students to improve attendance, behavior and course performance through In School & On Track, City Year's national campaign to address the nation's dropout crisis. Launched in 2009 with U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, school superintendents and philanthropists, In School & On Track is City Year's results-based service model designed to reach 50% of all off-track students in City Year's 20 U.S. locations.

"Every 26 seconds a student drops out of high school in America," said City Year CEO and Co-Founder Michael Brown. "Comcast is a remarkable partner who is working with City Year to help end this crisis. We are tremendously fortunate to have Comcast provide City Year corps members and staff with their expert training in leadership development, to have Comcast present our national conferences, and to have Comcast sponsor teams of City Year AmeriCorps members serving in nine cities across the country — helping to keep hundreds of students in high-poverty schools on track to graduate."

In addition to serving as National Leadership Development and Training Partner and a Platinum Team Sponsor, Comcast will continue to air City Year's PSAs nationally, an annual value of $2 million. Since 2002, Comcast has aired City Year's public service announcements across the US, totaling $30 million of air time and reaching millions of young leaders ready to answer the call, "give a year. change the world."

The funding will also support key events and initiatives across the nation, as the Presenting Sponsor of City Year's National Leadership Summit, which brings together more than 300 education, business, philanthropic and government leaders to address the dropout crisis and tactics to reverse those trends, and the National Sponsor of City Year's Opening Day ceremony, which launches corps member service in schools.