DOVER, NH – Wentworth-Douglass Hospital is proud to announce that it successfully performed its first Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) procedure on July 14, marking a significant milestone in the hospital's commitment to providing advanced, minimally invasive treatments to the Seacoast community.

The TIF procedure is a cutting-edge technique that offers a revolutionary approach to the treatment of heartburn (acid reflux) and other chronic symptoms associated with GERD (chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease). Unlike traditional surgeries, which often require large incisions and extensive recovery periods, the TIF procedure is performed entirely through the mouth, eliminating the need for external incisions. This groundbreaking technique not only reduces the risk of complications, but also offers patients a faster recovery time and a quicker return to their daily activities.

The goal of anti-reflux surgery is to restore the normal functions of the junction between the esophagus and the stomach by creating a new anti-reflux valve. This is carried out by wrapping the upper portion of the stomach (the fundus) around the esophagus, either partially or totally.

"The introduction of this procedure at Wentworth-Douglass represents a major breakthrough for us locally in the management of GERD. By offering a less invasive alternative, we hope to empower patients to take control of their condition and improve their quality of life,” said Dr.Hany Takla, medical director for surgical services at Wentworth-Douglass. “It really has the potential to transform the treatment landscape for our current GERD patients and hopefully encourages those who need it to seek treatment as well.”

The TIF procedure exemplifies Wentworth-Douglass Hospital's dedication to adopting innovative medical technologies that enhance patient care and improve outcomes.

“This is a game-changer for many of our patients who have chronic acid reflux,” said Khushboo Munot, MD, Gastroenterologist and TIF Specialist at Atlantic Digestive Specialists and Wentworth Douglass Hospital. “The procedure is non-invasive, and patients often can go home the same day. It can be a great treatment option for people who have been dealing with this issue for many years and can provide them with a better quality of life.”

SOMERSWORTH - Three years after becoming the first community health center in New Hampshire to train medical residents as part of the Portsmouth Family Medicine Residency Program, Greater Seacoast Community Health recently welcomed its first Associate Residency Program Director and its fourth cohort of family medicine residents.

The Associate Program Director, Michael Samaan, MD, has two decades of experience in family medicine at hospitals and practices in Alaska and Texas. He also served on the faculty of the Alaska Family Medicine Residency and is a Marine Corps veteran. In his faculty and administrative role, he will he will oversee residents’ training and supervise them directly in the clinical setting. Dr. Samaan also sees patients as a primary care provider at Goodwin Community Health in Somersworth, one of two community health centers -- along with Families First Health Center in Portsmouth – that comprises the Greater Seacoast network.

“I have always felt that the patient/physician relationship should be rooted in a genuine feeling of mutual respect, with both parties able to express their frustrations and hopes and to work together in achieving health related goals,” said Dr. Samaan. “A similar relationship can be applied to the medical education environment in preparing new doctors to enter the extremely challenging and dynamic practice of family medicine.”

Joining the program this summer are new resident physicians Samuel Backman, MD, a graduate of Saba University School of Medicine in the Caribbean; Charelle Allen, MD, from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada; Anna Byrne, DO, a graduate of Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine; and Antara Chakraborty, from Calcutta National Medical College in India.

The 12 residents based at Goodwin serve more than 2,500 patients as one of six primary-care teams at Goodwin Community Health and Families First Health Center. In addition, they complete rotations in the prenatal, mobile health, medication-assisted recovery and psychiatric programs at Greater Seacoast and at Portsmouth Regional Hospital and local specialty practices.

Supervising the new residents along with Dr. Samaan are Greater Seacoast Community Health Chief Medical Officer Joann Buonomano, MD, and Portsmouth Regional Hospital core faculty and community physicians, including Nancy Braese, DO; David Gagnon, MD; and Robert Mathes, MD.

About the Residency Program

The Portsmouth Family Medicine Residency Program, which began in 2020, is a partnership between the American College of Graduate Medical Education at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, which is an affiliate member of Tufts University School of Medicine; Greater Seacoast Community Health; and other local family and internal medicine practices.

“The partnership has been a major asset for our organization as it has allowed us to keep up-to- date with newer medical innovations that come from being affiliated with a hospital network and Tufts University,” said Dr. Buonomano.

“It’s the full scope of traditional family physician experience,” said Dr. Buonomano.

How Resident Physicians Benefit

The three-year Family Medicine Residency Program in the Seacoast attracts applicants from far and wide, with 500 candidates applying each year for eight positions. Greater Seacoast Community Health is currently the only Federally Qualified Health Center in New Hampshire to formally partner with a residency program.

Community health centers like Families First and Goodwin are desirable places for residents to practice primary care after completing their training, because working at a community health center makes them eligible for loan repayment as part of the National Health Service Corps.

“Residents are passionate about delivering care to patients with complex medical challenges and other obstacles related to the social determinants of health,” said Dr. Buonomano. “The enthusiasm of these young doctors coming out of medical school has been inspiring and builds a foundation of hope for the future of compassionate health care.”

How Patients Benefit

Through the residency program, Greater Seacoast offers a community-based, full-time primary care clinic at Goodwin, called the Continuity Clinic.  Dr. Buonomano, previously a full-scope rural family physician, sees the value that the residents’ hospital experience brings to the outpatient Continuity Clinic.

“The residents provide a bridge for patients hospitalized at Portsmouth Regional Hospital and help us fulfill our advocacy role as primary-care providers within this complex health care setting,” she said.

One way patients benefit from having a resident physician as their primary care provider is that they are also seen by the resident’s preceptor or teacher, another physician who supervises their clinical experience. Patients get the best of both worlds: residents who have the latest medical knowledge, and the wisdom of physicians who have been practicing medicine for many years.

“This program is a growing asset as we become more seasoned as a faculty team,” said Dr. Buonomano. “We have been successful in attracting skilled core faculty and skilled community preceptors who are passionate about the critical role of primary care within an increasingly complex and specialized industry.”

In addition to participating in the medical residency program, Greater Seacoast Community Health’s work as a teaching environment includes hosting dental students from both Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and University of New England College; nurse practitioner students from the University of New Hampshire; and physician assistant students from University of New England.

Greater Seacoast Community Health is a network of community health centers providing primary care, pediatrics, dental care, prenatal care, behavioral health counseling, substance use disorder treatment, mobile health services, WIC, social work services, a pharmacy, parenting classes, playgroups and home visiting. For more information, visit GetCommunityHealth.org.

Michael Samaan, MD, is the new Associate Residency Program Director at Greater Seacoast Community Health.

Resident physicians joining Greater Seacoast Community Health this summer are, from left to right, Samuel Backman, Antara Chakraborty, Charelle Allen and Anna Byrne.

ROCHESTER – The Monarch School of New England is pleased to announce that as of July 1st, newly appointed Executive Director Jeanette Souther has assumed her role at the school.

Jean Parsons, President of the Monarch School of New England Board of Directors, led the yearlong hiring process along with a committee of Board members. This hiring committee was instrumental in identifying the qualities needed in a leader who could further the school’s mission and build upon its strong foundation.

Parsons shared; “Jeanette’s passion for special education comes from a unique intersection of professional experiences and personal connections. In addition to being a highly respected leader, she demonstrates a genuine, strong alignment with the school’s values that all students can learn and deserve the opportunity to grow to reach their greatest potential. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Monarch School of New England.”

Souther brings more than 20 years of leadership, special education, and administrative experience to the Monarch School of New England. Her extensive career has encompassed all aspects of the special education system, from direct classroom instruction to administration. She has held educational leadership roles in at least three states, providing her with comprehensive knowledge of the current best practices, laws, policies, and issues in special education. Most recently, Souther served for eight years as the Portsmouth School District’s Director of Pupil Supports.

“I’m delighted to join the Monarch School of New England and to return, in a way, to my ‘professional roots’ as a special education teacher. I look forward to being part of a school community that celebrates each student’s individual strengths. Being an engaged leader, I will work with the dedicated staff to ensure students have the support they need to be successful in reaching their goals,” shared Souther.

Souther also shared that joining the Monarch School of New England resonates strongly for her on a personal level. She grew up watching her parents and grandmother advocate on behalf of her paternal aunt, who developed significant physical and cognitive disabilities following a debilitating childhood illness. And most meaningful personally is her oldest son, whose achievements as a young adult with Down syndrome continually inspire her.

Given Souther’s professional leadership experiences, personal commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities, and shared values with the school community, the Monarch School of New England is in a strong place to move forward with her guidance and continue providing unlimited possibilities for students with special needs.

 

New Executive Director greets MSNE students during her first week

About the Monarch School of New England

The Monarch School of New England is a nonprofit day school for students 5-22 years of age with significant disabilities. The school supports students with special needs to reach their greatest potential, through a comprehensive approach which integrates both education and therapy, ensuring successful transitions to school and the community. To learn more, visit: monarchschoolne.org

Berwick, ME - July 18th- JCS Property Management is pleased to announce the issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a family-friendly breakfast/lunch restaurant at the thriving Edge at Berwick development. The RFP seeks proposals from interested lessees for a brand new, renovated space spanning approximately 4,100 square feet, located at 12 Sullivan Street, Suite 121. 

Situated in the heart of Berwick's growing Village Center, the Edge at Berwick is a dynamic project developed by Great Falls Construction. The former Prime Tanning Facility site, spanning approximately 11 acres, has been transformed into a bustling community hub, comprising 37 diverse commercial units, 265 residential apartments, and abundant shared open space and parking. Currently in its second phase of construction, the Edge at Berwick promises to be a transformative destination at the Edge of the State, the Edge of the Salmon Falls River, and the Edge of transformational change.

The available space at 12 Sullivan Street, Suite 121, presents an exceptional opportunity for a breakfast/lunch restaurant to join the vibrant business community at the Village Center. Boasting a modern exterior, ample natural light, a large glass overhead door, and shared parking facilities, this renovated space also offers the potential for an outdoor patio utilizing the spacious "spillable" outdoor area. The landlord is willing to provide a lump sum contribution toward custom fit-up, which will be discussed with the successful respondent.

JCS Property Management seeks proposals from candidates who value community and envision a family-friendly restaurant offering. While the restaurant should primarily focus on breakfast and lunch, additional menu options are not restricted. The space is ready for fit-up to begin immediately, providing an ideal opportunity for the successful respondent to establish a thriving restaurant.

Interested parties are required to submit the following for consideration:

1. Cover Letter: An explanation and demonstration of interest in the space, site, and location.
2.  Brief Concept/Business Plan: Detailed information about the business concept, financial viability, operational philosophy, proposed restaurant menu offerings, preferred hours of operation, and any other differentiating information.
3. Resume Indicating Relevant Experience: For key individuals on the team.
4. Timeline for Ideal Occupancy: Details regarding the preferred timeline for occupying the space.

All RFP submissions must be sent via email to jcurran@greatfallsinc.com and are due by Friday, August 11. For any questions or to arrange a facility visit prior to the RFP due date, please contact Julie Curran at the provided email address.

JCS Property Management appreciates the interest shown by prospective respondents and looks forward to receiving compelling proposals that will contribute to the vibrant and diverse offerings at the Edge at Berwick.

MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank) will open a new branch office located at 2 Meeting Place Drive in Exeter in early summer 2024. Construction is slated to begin in late summer or early fall.

“We are honored to announce the expansion of MVSB to the Exeter area with a state-of-the-art facility that will serve customers and the community for many years to come,” said Marcus Weeks, MVSB President. “This new branch location honors the Bank’s commitment to serving the Seacoast region – providing enhanced convenience for existing customers in the region, and offering a new banking resource in the community. The town of Exeter has been very welcoming to us and we are excited to be a part of the wonderful culture of civic and business engagement in this Main Street community.”

MVSB has locations throughout the Lakes Region, White Mountains and the Seacoast areas. The new building has been designed by Warrenstreet Architects, Inc. with a similar style to the Bank’s Rochester and Portsmouth locations – featuring stone and cedar cladding to fit in beautifully in the charming Seacoast community of Exeter. Construction of the branch will be managed by Conneston Construction, Inc. (CCI).

The Bank looks forward to adding talented local staff at the new office as construction progresses. Interested applicants can visit www.mvsb.com/careers. MVSB is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and respectful work environment for all employees.

MVSB’s new branch location located at 2 Meeting Place Drive in Exeter is slated to open in early summer 2024. Rendering by Warrenstreet Architects, Inc.

MVSB has been serving the essential banking needs of people, businesses, nonprofits and municipalities for over 150 years. As a mutual savings bank, MVSB has no stock-holders but rather operates for the benefit of its customers, employees and community. Since our founding, one thing has always remained true: caring is at the heart of everything we do. By building and nurturing relationships, we believe that we can cultivate a community where we all thrive. It all starts with caring about our customers and neighbors. To learn more, visit any of the local branch offices located in New Hampshire in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester or Wolfeboro, call 800.922.6872 or visit mvsb.com.

July 13, 2023 - Dover, NH - First Seacoast Bank (FSB) is pleased to announce that Amy K. Hanna has joined the team as the Executive Assistant to the President/CEO and the new Assistant Corporate Secretary. Amy brings with her a wealth of experience, having served in various executive and personal assistant roles for over 15 years.

Previously, Ms. Hanna supported Jake Burton and the organization’s Executive Team in her role as Global Communications Director of Burton Corp., where she managed brand, athlete, and Principals’ presence at the Winter Olympics, oversaw internal and international communications teams in Burlington, VT, Tokyo, Japan, and Innsbruck, Austria, and was an instrumental part in the niche brand’s growth to a worldwide, mainstream audience. At Burton, Ms. Hanna worked to inspire and celebrate young people through boardsports and The Chill Foundation, now in 20 cities and nine countries, serving more than 2,000 youth annually, building a more equitable outdoor community.

Prior to joining First Seacoast Bank, Ms. Hanna was an Executive/Personal Assistant to the CEO of Planet Fitness and also ran her own MarCom Agency. Her process and efficiency expertise make her well suited for this role at First Seacoast Bank as she works alongside the President/CEO on various projects while managing communication initiatives across multiple departments within the organization.

"We are thrilled that Amy has joined our team," said James R. Brannen, President & CEO of First Seacoast Bank. "Her background makes her an ideal fit for this role; we know she will be an asset both personally and professionally."

In addition to her professional career accomplishments, Amy is passionate about giving back to her community through volunteerism, including leadership roles in State Lobbyist Team-Capital Hill’s Annual Advocacy Day and volunteering for equal rights and mental health causes whenever possible. In her free time, she enjoys mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking, boating, wakeboarding, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

With her extensive knowledge base combined with a passion for volunteerism, Amy is a great addition to First Seacoast Bank's team.

Amy K. Hanna

DOVER, NH – Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has received two 2023 “Get With The Guidelines” awards from the American Heart Association, for excellence in treating heart failure and stroke. The honors were given with “Gold Plus” distinction – the highest level of the award given by the organization.

The heart failure award recognizes Wentworth-Douglass’ commitment to improving outcomes, especially reduced readmissions. It is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the American Heart Association’s most recent guidelines and ensures patient care is aligned with the latest research and evidence-based directives.

The stroke award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines - ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

“We are pleased to recognize the leaders and teams at Wentworth-Douglass for a strong commitment to care,” said Dr. Clyde W. Yancy, national chairperson of the American Heart Association’s heart failure systems of care advisory group.

“Hospitals that participate in Get With The Guidelines quality improvement programs often see better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities,” he said.

About 6 million U.S. adults are living with heart failure, a number that is expected to increase to more than 8 million by 2030. Despite the name, heart failure doesn’t mean that the heart has stopped working, but rather that it is having a hard time pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body. While there’s no cure, patients can live a quality life by working with their health care team to create a treatment plan that may include medication, symptom monitoring, and lifestyle changes.

Stroke is fifth-leading cause of death, and a leading cause of disability, in the United States. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability, and accelerating recovery times.

Each year, program participants qualify for the awards recognitions by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, “Get With The Guidelines” participants also provide education to patients to help them manage their conditions at home.

Local artist Dr. Marc Bard hosted the “Paintings for a Purpose” art show opening reception June 29 at the MVSB Main Office in Meredith. Members of the community were invited to view and purchase beautiful watercolor paintings and prints featuring local Lakes Region scenes with proceeds from the sale of the art benefitting the Meredith Food Pantry. The event featured food generously contributed by Moulton Farm and live music by Kirk Meloney and fellow local musicians.

“We had a strong show of support from local community members, who came together to bond over art and support a great local nonprofit,” said Marc. “We have already raised $9,380 from the sale of the art – which is incredible.”

Bard’s artwork will be on display at MVSB’s Main Office through August 1, and all are invited to stop in to view or make purchases during business hours at 24 NH Route 25 in Meredith. MVSB has committed to a $5,000 contribution in support for the show and the Meredith Food Pantry.

“We still have pieces available for purchase and I am currently accepting commissioned pieces by request,” said Marc. “I would like to offer a special thank you to MVSB, Moulton Farm, Meredith Frame Shop and other community partners for all their support of this year’s event.”

“Marc is a wonderful artist and has such passion for showcasing this beautiful region we call home,” said Marcus Weeks, MVSB President. “We jumped at the chance to help host this unique event that will also give back to those in need. The opening night reception was a success and we couldn’t be more grateful for this wonderful community we call home.”

For those wishing to offer additional support to the Meredith Food Pantry, they are currently accepting donations of fresh fruit, vegetables, toothpaste, toilet paper, conditioner, laundry soap and additional basic household items at 147 Main Street in Meredith. They are open from 9 am-1 pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Go to benjylevine07.wixsite.com/paintingforapurpose to view samples of Marc’s paintings and to read more about Marc. Go to www.mvsb.com/2023/06/01/paintings-for-a-purpose to read more about the “Paintings for a Purpose” art show.

Local artist Dr. Marc Bard (center) discusses his artwork with opening night attendees at the MVSB Main Office in Meredith. Bard’s artwork will be on display at MVSB through August 1, and all are invited to stop in to view or make purchases during business hours. Courtesy Photo

Local artist Dr. Marc Bard’s watercolor painting “Squam Sunset” sits on an easel during the “Paintings for a Purpose” art show June 29 at the MVSB Main Office in Meredith. Courtesy Photo

Dr. Marc Bard earned his medical school tuition illustrating medical books and journal articles. During his residency he participated in a novel program sponsored by the Harvard teaching hospitals, in which he actively participated in its design. After residency Dr. Bard served as the first director of ambulatory services at Mount Auburn Hospital and in 1980 he was recruited to be Chief of Internal Medicine at Harvard Community Health Plan where he built a spectacular department of clinicians. As a result of the innovative programs designed for the department, he was invited to consult to Kaiser Permanente, thereby launching an over forty-year healthcare consulting career. By 1997 his practice expanded into a consulting firm where he served as Founder and CEO for the next 12 years until it was acquired by Navigant Consulting. He served as Chief Innovation Officer for Navigant, taking a brief sabbatical to write one of the first published books on the Affordable Care Act. He was recruited by the Bloomberg administration in New York to be the initial CEO of the 2400-strong physician practice serving the New York public hospital system. Today, Dr. Bard divides his time between a limited consulting practice, painting, exercise, volunteer work, and active participation in the lives of his wonderful grandchildren.

Meredith Food Pantry is located at 147 Main Street in Meredith, NH and serves the communities of Meredith, New Hampton and Center Harbor. For more information, all 603-279-1115.

MVSB has been serving the essential banking needs of people, businesses, nonprofits and municipalities for over 150 years. As a mutual savings bank, MVSB has no stock-holders but rather operates for the benefit of its customers, employees and community. Since our founding, one thing has always remained true: caring is at the heart of everything we do. By building and nurturing relationships, we believe that we can cultivate a community where we all thrive. It all starts with caring about our customers and neighbors. To learn more, visit any of the local branch offices located in New Hampshire in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester or Wolfeboro, call 800.922.6872 or visit mvsb.com.

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Somersworth, NH- The Falls Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Jacob Erricolo as a new member of its Board of Directors. Jacob brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position, having established himself as a prominent commercial lender in the region while working for Bangor Savings Bank.

As a member of the Board of Directors at the Falls Chamber of Commerce, Jacob Erricolo will leverage his extensive knowledge and professional network to support the chamber's mission of promoting economic vitality and advocating for the local business community. With his keen insight into the financial sector and his commitment to fostering collaborative partnerships, Jacob will contribute significantly to the chamber's strategic initiatives and help drive sustainable economic development in the Falls Region. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Jacob Erricolo to the Board of Directors," said Emerson Doiron, Executive Director of the Falls Chamber of Commerce. "His expertise as a commercial lender, coupled with his passion for supporting local businesses, will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to create a thriving business environment in our community. Jacob's valuable insights and dedication to economic development align with our goals, and we look forward to working together to achieve continued success."

Jacob Erricolo, the newly appointed member of the Falls Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, shared his perspective on the importance of taking proactive steps towards positive change. He emphasized, "Positive actions that are paused will bring tentative results. To make a real impact, it is essential to force yourself to engage in change that benefits all with certainty." Jacob's forward-thinking mindset and dedication to transformative change will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the Falls Chamber of Commerce and its mission to promote economic vitality in the region.

Jacob Erricolo

About the Falls Chamber of Commerce

The Falls Chamber of Commerce strives to be an active partner in improving the economic health, business environment, and vitality of the Falls Region encompassing Somersworth, Rollinsford, Berwick, North Berwick, and South Berwick. We strive to promote business through membership services, education programs, cooperative partnerships, and legislative advocacy that balances prosperity with the quality of life.