The State is in high gear rolling out New Hampshire’s new paid family and medical leave program. As reported, the state has partnered with MetLife to fully insure and fully administer this voluntary benefit. All employers and all workers will have the ability to choose or not to choose to obtain coverage. MetLife is conducting a 2^nd series of employer webinars on November 7^th, 9^th and 10^th to help employers understand this unique, first of its kind, voluntary benefit.

Information can be found by clicking on the website link below as well as visiting the NH Paid Leave social media profiles. All prior webinars can be viewed on the website and employers can sign up for the upcoming webinars.

The December 1^st employer enrollment date is fast approaching as is the January 1^st individual enrollment date when all workers who are not provided employer sponsored coverage will be able to purchase coverage on their own.

Visit us at www.paidfamilymedicalleave.nh.gov and follow us on social media.

Rollinsford, NH- Harmon’s Snowshoemen, a group of New England military re-enactors, has been chosen by the Association for Rollinsford Culture and History (ARCH) as the recipients of the 2022 ARCH Heritage Award. Presently annually, the award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to the preservation of the history, heritage and culture of Rollinsford and the lower Salmon Falls region. The award will be presented at the ARCH dinner and auction on Saturday, November 19 at Spring Hill in South Berwick, ME.

Frequent participants at living history events throughout the New England region, Harmon’s was the first group of historical re-enactors to present a living history event at Rollinsford’s historic Colonel Paul Wentworth House, in January 2012. Since then, their annual program has been one of the most popular events at the Wentworth House, and was even featured on WMUR’s New Hampshire Chronicle in 2017.

The members of Harmon’s Snowshoemen portray military units from four distinct periods in New England history: the time of the first English settlements (The Piscataqua Company, 1623-1640); the late 17^th and early 18^th centuries (Benjamin Church’s Company (1675-1707); the mid-18^th century (Harmon’s Company of Snowshoemen, 1748-1760); and the War for Independence (Jonathan Eames’ Rangers, 1776-1777).

“Over time, our program of living history events has expanded to include other groups and other eras, but Harmon’s was the first,” said Nancy Dickinson, co-president of the ARCH Board of Directors. “They’ve generously and enthusiastically shared their expertise about colonial life at numerous events at the Wentworth House, and they truly bring the past to life for our visitors.”

A nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Rollinsford and the lower Salmon Falls region, ARCH maintains the circa 1701 Colonel Paul Wentworth House as an educational and cultural center for the community. For more information about ARCH, including how to purchase tickets to the dinner and auction, consult the ARCH website at www.paulwentworthhouse.org or send an email to paulwentworthhouse@gmail.com.         

SOMERSWORTH, NH – The Falls Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday for Tease Salon during their grand opening party. Tease was originally located on High Street but they have since moved to a new location on Government Way. 

Tease Hair Studio is built on a passion for hair and creativity! They are a small, family-owned hair salon in Somersworth who pride themselves on welcoming all. No matter your age, sexuality, gender or nationality, clients can find a home there. Owner Mandy Mazeu stated, “we do hair, we do care!” 

To celebrate the momentous occasion Tease held a Grand Opening Party featuring costumes and a drag show. Joining Tease at the event were Chamber Representatives and members of the community. 

To learn more about Tease Salon, visit https://www.teasenh.com/ or email teasehairstudionh@gmail.com. 

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ROCHESTER, NH – The Monarch School of New England is pleased to announce its Board of Directors for the 2022-2023 school year. The Board of Directors is comprised of individuals from corporate, financial, education, and philanthropic sectors of the state. Members bring experience to their roles, as several members have served on Monarch’s Board for multiple years, while other members have a significant history of service working with similar organizations.

Executive Director, Diane Bessey, will retire at the end of the current school year. She expressed her gratitude for the Board’s service; “Both on an individual and collective level, this Board of Directors is second to none in terms of their connection to our mission. They are truly invested in seeing our students succeed. As the school moves forward, I’m appreciative of their efforts to ensure that Monarch has a strong foundation to support students now and in the future.”

Jean Parsons serves as the Board President, and shared, “The individuals that make up this Board bring vision and energy to their roles. As we implement Monarch’s new strategic plan, and move forward through the leadership transition process, I’m confident that this Board’s passion and expertise will provide the guidance needed for the school to continue to thrive.”

Board members for the 2022-2023 school year include: Raymond Benoit, former owner / president of RTM Communications; Stacey Camire, retired Occupational Therapist; Phillip Curtis, Financial Advisor at Northeast Planning Associates; Steven Gore, Chief Operating Officer at Momentum Manufacturing Group; Kate Marcotte, Assistant Treasurer at Profile Bank; Marlene McManus, Attorney at Fragomen Del Rey Bernsen & Loewy LLP; Chris Parker, President and Chief Executive Officer at Northeast Credit Union; Jean Parsons, retired Special Education Administrator; and Jolene Whitehead, Branch and Business Development Manager at Meredith Village Savings Bank.

To learn more about the Monarch School of New England’s Board of Directors, please visit: www.monarchschoolne.org/about/board-of-directors/

About the Monarch School of New England:

The Monarch School of New England is a nonprofit day school for students ages 5-22 with significant disabilities. Based in Rochester, the school works with students from across New Hampshire and southern Maine. The Monarch School of New England is recognized for excellence and innovation in providing academic, therapeutic, life skills and vocational programming. For more than 45 years, the school has supported students with special needs to reach their greatest potential. To learn more, visit: monarchschoolne.org.

Left to Right: Marlene McManus, Kate Marcotte, Stacey Camire, Jean Parsons – Board President,
Steven Gore, Chris Parker, Raymond Benoit – Board Vice President
Not pictured: Jolene Whitehead, Phillip Curtis – Treasurer

Denise Hubbard, NMLS #47515, Mortgage Loan Program Specialist at MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank), was recently honored as the #1 2022 Platinum Level Loan Originator from the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority. MVSB was also recognized overall as the #3 2022 Gold Level Top Lender.

“Denise is a knowledgeable and passionate advocate for New Hampshire Housing’s programs and has helped hundreds of first-time home buyers achieve their dream of home ownership,” said Charlie Dowd, MVSB Vice President Residential Mortgage Sales, NMLS #737415. “She is more than deserving of this recognition and we couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments.”

“My passion is really helping first-time home buyers find the right financing to fit their needs and get them into a great place to call home,” said Denise. “New Hampshire Housing has some great programs, resources and incentives for home buyers and they really care about the needs of those they serve. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our customers smiling as they receive the keys to their new home.”

Denise joined MVSB in 2009 as a Reverse Mortgage Specialist and assumed the role of Mortgage Loan Program Specialist in 2011. She has more than 35 years of experience in mortgage lending and specializes in Reverse Mortgages, Federal Housing Administration (FHA), and Rural Development and NH Housing loans. Go to mvsb.com/originator/denise-hubbard to read more about Denise.

As a self-supporting public corporation, New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority promotes, finances and supports affordable housing. NHHFA operates a number of rental and homeownership programs designed to assist low- and moderate-income persons with obtaining affordable housing. Go to nhhfa.org for more information.

Unlike a stock bank, MVSB is a mutual savings bank that operates for the benefit of its depositors, borrowers and surrounding communities. As a result, MVSB has remained steadfast in fostering the economic health and well-being of the community since it was founded in 1869. For over 150 years, Meredith Village Savings Bank (MVSB), has been serving the people, businesses, nonprofits and municipalities of New Hampshire. MVSB and its employees are guided by the values of accountability, mutuality, excellence, respect, integrity, teamwork and stewardship. To learn more, visit any of the local branch offices located in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester or Wolfeboro, call 800.922.6872 or visit mvsb.com.

 Caption: Denise Hubbard, MVSB Mortgage Loan Program Specialist NMLS #47515, and Charlie Dowd, MVSB Vice President Residential Mortgage Sales, NMLS #737415, show Denise’s award from New Hampshire Housing as the #1 2022 Platinum Level Loan Originator. Courtesy Photo

On November 17, Earth Eagle Brewings will celebrate its 10th anniversary. Established in 2012, Earth Eagle Brewings is a craft brewery with two locations, the original in downtown Portsmouth and the second, Earth Eagle North, is in Somersworth. 

In celebration of the milestone we will release a special anniversary brew: an old ale boasting a rich amber color and malty flavors. This winter warmer will be tapped with fanfare by owner/brewer Alex McDonald on Nov. 17 during the 10th anniversary party in Portsmouth. 

Commemorative 10th anniversary merchandise will be available for purchase including beer steins and t-shirts.( More details on the party coming soon.)

Earth Eagle Brewings in Portsmouth offers our own craft beer, expansive burger and hot dog menus, a full bar, private beer garden and homebrew supply shop. All just a short walk from Market Square. 

Earth Eagle North in Somersworth houses the primary brewing facility and a brewpub offering our brews, expansive hot dog menu (no burgers) and snacks. Plus, live music three nights a week and trivia every Wednesday. 

THE BEER:

Our beers run a wide range of styles, with the best seller being our New England Gangsta' --  a West Coast style IPA with Pacific NW hops. Originally offered from opening day and still going strong, Gangsta' is among our popular brews offered year-round. Other popular brews include Armadillo Danger pale ale (a single-hopped American pale featuring Amarillo hops), Piscataqua (an American corn lager), Circling Birds (a double-dry hopped Double IPA) and Birds from Mars (a tropical IPA). 

Seasonal beers include fruited sours, herbal beers (gruit), stouts, lagers and Belgian ales. Two popular brews released every Halloween are Puca Curry Pumpkin Porter and Mummy Milk Imperial Milk Stout. 

INFO: 

eartheaglebrewings.com

Instagram: @eartheaglebrewings / @eartheagle_north

Facebook: @eartheaglebrewings / @eartheaglenorth

Earth Eagle Brewings

175 High Street, Portsmouth, NH 

603.502.2244

Earth Eagle North

Barclay Square Industrial Park,  350 NH-108, Somersworth, NH

603.841.5421

 

Little Antlers Learning Center recently opened their doors in Plymouth with the support of the state and local community. MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank) proudly purchased $10,000 in tax credits for the center through the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) to further the Bank’s commitment to help address the region’s need for additional child care services.

“We are more than excited to showcase our beautiful new center that features outdoor and indoor playground spaces, a garden and a number of classrooms to serve more than 60 children,” said Alison Murphy, Little Antlers Learning Center Director. “We are thankful for the overwhelming support we have received and we are excited to serve the community.”

“As a local employer and community member, we’ve been so in tune to the struggle local families have finding convenient, quality care for their children, and we are thrilled to support Little Antlers and the resources they will bring to the area,” said Martha Clifford, MVSB Branch & Business Development Manager in Plymouth. “Their new space is so bright and inviting, and it is sure to provide their students so much opportunity to learn and grow.”

Little Antlers Learning Center is a nonprofit program of Mid-State Health Center. The center provides services for children from 6 weeks to 6 years old and is committed to providing early childhood education that fosters natural curiosity, nurtures independence, self-confidence and inspires a lifelong love of learning. They provide a rich environment that guides the development of the whole child while also supporting the families of the community and fifty-one percent of their spots are reserved for low- to moderate-income households. Go to littleantlers.org to learn more.

CDFA tax credits allow businesses to fund qualifying economic or community development projects in exchange for a tax credit that can be applied against state business tax payments. The tax credits are administered by the New Hampshire CDFA. Any business with operations in New Hampshire that contributes to a CDFA tax credit project receives a New Hampshire state tax credit worth 75 percent of their contribution. The credit can be used over a period of five years to reduce the business’ state tax liability (business profits, business enterprise, or insurance premium taxes). The tax credit program allows New Hampshire businesses to use their state tax dollars to support local projects that they care about. CDFA reviews many project applications each year, and awards tax credits to those they determine are feasible and will make the biggest impact on economic development in the state. Visit nhcdfa.org for more information.

Unlike a stock bank, MVSB is a mutual savings bank that operates for the benefit of its depositors, borrowers and surrounding communities. As a result, MVSB has remained steadfast in fostering the economic health and well-being of the community since it was founded in 1869. For over 150 years, Meredith Village Savings Bank (MVSB), has been serving the people, businesses, nonprofits and municipalities of New Hampshire. MVSB and its employees are guided by the values of accountability, mutuality, excellence, respect, integrity, teamwork and stewardship. To learn more, visit any of the local branch offices located in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester or Wolfeboro, call 800.922.6872 or visit mvsb.com.

Caption: Martha Clifford, MVSB Branch & Business Development Manager in Plymouth, (left) and Kayla Champagne, MVSB Branch Services Supervisor, (second from right), present a check to Alison Murphy, Little Antlers Learning Center Director, and her staff at the center in Plymouth. Courtesy Photo

MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank) has partnered with one of the most innovative leaders in digital business banking technology to offer automated online lending to local businesses, a unique offering in the local area. Community based businesses, both current MVSB customers and others, can now apply at their convenience from a computer or smart device. Following a simple, online loan application, borrowers typically receive a decision in minutes and approved loans can be funded in days.

“We know our knowledgeable business lending team is well regarded for the personalized attention they provide, and for working with our clients to help them find the right lending solution to start, maintain and grow their business,” said John Swedberg, Senior Vice President & Commercial Loan Officer for MVSB. “And we also understand that sometimes business owners and managers just need quick, reliable financing they can obtain on their own schedule to keep things going day-to-day. This new solution extends our business lending options to truly provide the best of both worlds.”

With MVSB’s new express lending solution, qualifying New Hampshire-registered businesses can obtain loans and lines of credit from $10,000 to $100,000 quickly – allowing them to make swift and confident decisions on purchasing equipment, upgrading property or readily managing the ebbs and flows of their cash flow cycle. The online application is accessible from browser and mobile device, is simple to use, makes it easy to upload documents, and even prefills information already on file to reduce reentry.

“Getting to know local business owners and the needs they face in their industries is so important to us,” said Tina Simpson, Assistant Vice President Digital Small Business Lending. “Providing commercial borrowers with a seamless online lending option is something we’re regularly asked for and it hasn’t been available from local and even national banks. We are thrilled to be able to address the need with the latest technology supporting us.”

A team of employees from across the Bank have been working diligently to implement this offering with the leadership of Tina, John and a host of other hard working MVSB team members behind the scenes. The Bank also solicited the involvement of local business owners to pilot the program and provide first-hand feedback critical to fine tuning the system and a successful launch.

Businesses interested in applying or learning more about the express business loan can do so by visiting mvsb.com/businessexpress or by contacting an MVSB Business Lender.

Unlike a stock bank, MVSB is a mutual savings bank that operates for the benefit of its depositors, borrowers and surrounding communities. As a result, MVSB has remained steadfast in fostering the economic health and well-being of the community since it was founded in 1869. For over 150 years, Meredith Village Savings Bank (MVSB), has been serving the people, businesses, nonprofits and municipalities of New Hampshire. MVSB and its employees are guided by the values of accountability, mutuality, excellence, respect, integrity, teamwork and stewardship. To learn more, visit any of the local branch offices located in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester or Wolfeboro, call 800.922.6872 or visit mvsb.com.

Caption: Tina Simpson, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Digital Small Business Lending and Credit Analysis, and John Swedberg, Senior Vice President, Senior Commercial Lending Officer, lead the charge to implement MVSB’s innovative express loan option for businesses. Courtesy Photo

Rochester, NH – Cornerstone VNA is looking for volunteers to join their vibrant ‘A Matter of Balance’ program as a volunteer coach. This important program is designed to help people in the community manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity.

The next volunteer coaches training will take place on November 1 and 3 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in the Community Room at the Cornerstone VNA office on 178 Farmington Road in Rochester, NH. No previous experience is needed to become a volunteer coach. Once trained, volunteer balance coaches will be assigned in pairs to facilitate community programs. These programs take place over a 4-week period, with participants meeting two times a week for two hours each session. Volunteers are asked to facilitate at least two ‘A Matter of Balance’ programs per year.

During these sessions, volunteer balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls, identify ways to reduce falls, and lead exercises to help increase strength and balance. According to Tina Trevino, Cornerstone VNA Volunteer Balance Coach, “As participants opened up to each other and shared their concerns of falling they seemed to bond and even laugh and have a good time. I hope they continue to get together!”

If you are interested in joining this important volunteer team, please contact Katie Michaud, MS, OTR/L at kmichaud@cornerstonevna.org or 603-332-1133 x1186.  You can also find additional details at www.cornerstonevna.org/volunteer/.

Cornerstone VNA currently serves Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty, and Community Care. For 109 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 800-691-1133.

BERWICK, Maine –Recently SBA New England Regional Administrator Mike Vlacich joined Falls Chamber of Commerce for a small business resource fair at Berwick Town Hall. 

This event was an afternoon focused on helping small businesses find the resources they need to start, thrive and grow. The Business Resource Fair featured 15 business support organizations from both New Hampshire and Maine.

“I applaud the Falls Chamber of Commerce for their efforts to reach the small business community in the Falls area by bringing these small business resources together under one roof,” said Mr. Vlacich. “It is critical for small businesses to make strong local connections to start, grow and expand.”

“The Falls Chamber of Commerce put the Business Resource Fair on to help businesses in both Maine and New Hampshire find resources to start, thrive, and grow here,” said Emerson Doiron, Executive Director of the Falls. “Our community is getting stronger and growing every day with new businesses and we are working to get them the resources they need.”

Featured organizations at the business resource fair included:  

·       Small Business Administration (Maine and New Hampshire District Offices)

·       Small Business Development Center (Maine and New Hampshire)

·       Veterans Business Outreach Center of New England

·       Seacoast SCORE

·       Veteran Entrepreneurial Training and Resource Network

·       York County Career Center

·       Southern Maine Finance Agency

·       Maine Department of Economic and Community Development

·       New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs

·       Maine International Trade Center

·       Procurement Technical Assistance Center (ME & NH)

·       Finance Authority of Maine

The Falls Chamber of Commerce is a professional association that serves the businesses of Somersworth NH, Rollinsford NH, Berwick ME, South Berwick ME, and North Berwick ME. To learn more visit: https://thefallschamber.com/.

Businesses can connect with the SBA office near them or any of SBA’s resource partners at: www.sba.gov/local-assistance.