Arts and Recreation

Pink Floyd's Legendary 1972 Concert Film Comes To Park Theatre

Newly remastered Pink Floyd at Pompeii - MCMLXXII concert film will be shown exclusively in Jaffrey on May 16 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

JAFFREY, New Hampshire (May 9, 2025) The Park Theatre in Jaffrey, New Hampshire will screen the newly restored, critically acclaimed concert film, Pink Floyd at Pompeii - MCMLXXII, on its giant screen with 17-speaker surround sound on Friday, May 16 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

The 2025 release of Pink Floyd at Pompeii - MCMLXXII, directed by Adrian Maben, marks a triumphant return of the iconic 1972 concert film, re-mastered in stunning 4K from the original 35mm footage and featuring a newly mixed audio track by Steven Wilson in stereo, 5.1, and Dolby Atmos. Presented by Sony Music Vision and Trafalgar Releasing, the film hit select cinemas and IMAX worldwide starting April 24, 2025, with a companion live album released on May 2, 2025, available for the first time on vinyl, CD, Blu-ray, DVD, and digital formats. This definitive version captures Pink Floyd performing in the haunting ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater in Pompeii, Italy, without an audience, alongside rare behinD-the-scenes footage of the band working on The Dark Side of the Moon at Abbey Road Studios. The restoration, led by Lana Topham, has been lauded for its visual clarity and immersive sound, with critics praising its ability to preserve the band's experimental brilliance. MOJO Magazine raved, "It sparkles anew... Steven Wilson's new mix brings fresh life to the soundtrack," awarding it four stars for its revitalized impact.

Critics have celebrated the 2025 re-release for its technical achievements and cultural significance, cementing its status as a vivid portrait of Pink Floyd on the cusp of greatness. The Guardian described it as a "mesmerically peculiar portrait of band on cusp of greatness," highlighting the film's vivid imagery and indulgent yet beguiling atmosphere. The Telegraph called it "a volcanic, vividly alive reminder of their greatness," urging aspiring musicians to view it as essential. Critics praise its timeless, cultural impact, capturing Pink Floyd's experimental brilliance in the haunting ruins of Pompeii." The film's theatrical run grossed over $6.4 million worldwide by April 27, 2025, reflecting its enduring appeal. This release not only honors the band's legacy but also introduces a new generation to their pioneering artistry.

Tickets for Pink Floyd at Pompeii - MCMLXXII are $18. They can be purchased online at theparktheatre.org or call the box office (603) 532-8888, or call the box office (603) 532-8888. You can also purchase at the door 30 minutes before showtime.

The Park Theatre performing arts center is located at 19 Main Street in downtown Jaffrey, New Hampshire, just 90 minutes from Boston & 60 minutes from Worcester, MA.

Bill Connors' Acclaimed Elton John Tribute Returns to The Park Theatre in Jaffrey, NH

On Saturday, May 17, Connors' tribute to ELTON comes back to The Park to once again captivate the audience

JAFFREY, New Hampshire (May 12, 2025) The Park Theatre is thrilled to welcome back Bill Connors and his electrifying Elton John tribute show on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 7:30 PM. Connors, a professional vocalist and pianist, has captivated audiences for over 18 years with more than 3,000 performances as Sir Elton John, earning him the title "American Elton." Known for his uncanny resemblance to the iconic artist, Connors meticulously recreates every mannerism, voice inflection, and nuance, delivering an immersive experience complete with dazzling costumes and vibrant showmanship.

From hits like "Your Song" and "Tiny Dancer" to “Rocket Man" and "Bennie and the Jets," the 1-hour, 45-minute performance takes audiences on a nostalgic journey through Elton John's illustrious career. Having performed globally from Hawaii to England and featured on America's Got Talent, as well as in Las Vega' The Greatest Piano Men and Legends in Concert, Connors brings unparalleled authenticity and energy to the stage at 19 Main Street, Jaffrey.

Tickets are $30, with reserved seating available at theparktheatre.org or by calling (603) 532-8888. Tickets are also availabe at the door one-hour before the performance. The concert takes place in the acoustically acclaimed 331-seat Eppes Auditorium at the Park Theatre performing arts center.

"Bill Connors is simply amazing with his tribute to Elton. This is a show not to be missed," raved a Tripadvisor reviewer, echoing the widespread praise Connors has received. BroadwayWorld described the show as "more than a tribute--it's an immersive experience that takes you on a journey through the music of one of the greatest artists of all time." With a reputation for engaging audiences and delivering a thrilling performance, Connors' return to Jaffrey promises an unforgettable evening for Elton John enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

Before the Elton John tribute, regional favorite, Diane Ammons, performs at the keyboard in the theatre's Lounge Room. Diane begins at 6pm. There is no admission charge. The bar will be open (ID required).

The Park Theatre performing arts center is located at 19 Main Street in downtown Jaffrey, New Hampshire, just 90 minutes from Boston & 60 minutes from Worcester, MA.

David Lean's Epic "Doctor Zhivago" in Stunning 4K Restoration at The Park Theatre

The 1965 Oscar-winning classic is shown as a matinee on Sunday, May 18 at 1:30pm

JAFFREY, New Hampshire (May 12, 2025) The Park Theatre proudly presents a special screening of David Lean's 1965 masterpiece Doctor Zhivago on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., showcasing a breathtaking 4K restoration with immersive Dolby® surround sound.

Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Russian Revolution, this sweeping romantic epic, based on Boris Pasternak's Nobel Prize-winning novel, follows Yuri Zhivago (Omar Sharif), a physician and poet torn between his love for his wife, Tonya (Geraldine Chaplin), and the passionate Lara Antipova (Julie Christie).

Directed by Lean, renowned for Lawrence of Arabia, the film features a stellar cast including Alec Guinness, Rod Steiger, and Tom Courtenay, with Freddie Young's Oscar-winning cinematography and Maurice Jarre's iconic "Lara's Theme." A monumental achievement, Doctor Zhivago won five Academy Awards and, with 248.2 million tickets sold worldwide, ranks as the ninth highest-grossing film of all time (adjusted for inflation), cementing its status as a cornerstone of cinematic history for its emotional depth and visual grandeur.

Critics have long hailed Doctor Zhivago as a cinematic triumph. The New York Times praised it as "a triumph of film art," lauding Lean's ability to weave a "richly textured" narrative that balances romance and historical upheaval. Life magazine's Richard Schickel called it "generous yet austere, huge but never out of human scale...a work of serious genuine art." A Park Ridge Classic Film review described it as "stunningly beautiful, rich in detail," noting its unique stature among films, with over 400 patrons leaving a screening in awe. The Hollywood Reporter endorsed its 2015 4K re-release, calling it "one of the essential cinematic events of the year," while Variety celebrated its "intensely human and passionate relationship" amidst monumental politics. This restored presentation at The Park Theatre promises to captivate audiences with its timeless romance and epic scope.

Tickets are $10/$9, available at theparktheatre.org, by calling (603) 532-8888, or at the box office 30 minutes before showtime.

The Park Theatre performing arts center is located at 19 Main Street in downtown Jaffrey, New Hampshire, just 90 minutes from Boston & 60 minutes from Worcester, MA.

Regional News

Senate Injects $1.33 Billion into Statewide Education, Transportation Projects

'Fair Share' dollars would be sent to shovel-ready projects around Massachusetts

(BOSTON--5/8/2025) The Massachusetts Senate today passed a $1.33 billion plan to invest in public education and transportation across the Commonwealth. The Senate's bill directs funding to expand career and technical education opportunities, bolster construction projects at local schools and college campuses, and support public transit, road and bridge funding for city and town governments.

The bill, S.2512, prioritizes regional equity by providing support statewide for K-12 school district special education programs, rural roads and bridges, capital improvements for public bus transportation, and infrastructure upgrades at Massachusetts' public colleges and universities.

The overwhelming success of the Fair Share amendment to the Constitution—voted for by residents in 2022—generated more than $1 billion over initial projections in fiscal years 2023 and 2024. This legislation contains restricted one-time investments in public education and transportation initiatives and primarily uses funds from that surtax, which is paid by households in Massachusetts earning more than $1 million per year. The Senate will debate its annual general budget later in the month.

"This bill answers the clear message that our residents sent us in 2022—to invest these dollars across the state to continue building the high-quality education and transportation systems Massachusetts deserves," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "At a time of economic uncertainty, we are committed to supporting our schools and making sure that residents can travel safely, and these Fair Share funds allow us to do that. I am deeply grateful for the hard work of Chair Rodrigues and the Senate Ways & Means Committee for putting this bill together, and to each Senator for contributing their ideas and support."

"I'm pleased the Senate has passed this Fair Share supplemental budget, prioritizing regional equity while also maintaining fiscal integrity during these highly uncertain times," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, (D-Westport) Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "By utilizing almost $1.3 billion in one-time surplus surtax revenues, the proposal strengthens the Commonwealth's economic foundation by making meaningful investments in education and transportation. This budget plan reaffirms the Senate's strong commitment to educational excellence, provides significant resources for special education, and makes substantial investments in our transportation infrastructure. It goes above and beyond to give everyone a 'fair share'."

"Amid waves of uncertainty at the national level and devastating federal cuts, the Massachusetts Senate answered the call of residents to use surplus Fair Share Amendment funds to invest equitably in education and transportation across the Commonwealth," said Senate Ways and Means Vice Chair Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). "The Senate bill passed today will provide transportation solutions for small, rural towns, will begin addressing the debilitating backlog of deferred maintenance on public higher education campuses, will provide meaningful help to school budgets pushed to the breaking point, and more. Thank you to Senate President Karen Spilka and Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues for leading the Senate to live our shared commitment to regional equity."

"The quality of our nation-leading public education system and public transportation infrastructure often define who we are as a Commonwealth," said Senator Paul Feeney (D-Foxborough), Assistant Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I am proud that this supplemental budget represents a balanced, smart, forward thinking and common-sense approach that directly infuses funds into these consequential sectors to help address residents' most pressing needs amidst economic uncertainty and pinching budgets. I am grateful to Chairman Rodrigues and Vice-Chair Comerford for their thoughtfulness and collaborative approach in crafting this bill, and to Senate President Spilka for her continued leadership on our Commonwealth's priorities and shared values."

"Our transportation system impacts nearly every part of our lives, from housing costs to economic mobility to climate change," said Senator Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn), Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee. "This legislation secures funding to support infrastructure upgrades to the MBTA, capital investments in our regional transit, and improvements to our local bridges, roads, and culverts. Through these various initiatives, residents of the Commonwealth will experience safer, more reliable and more efficient travel."

"These Fair Share dollars will provide critical support to municipalities struggling with growing education expenses by increasing state reimbursements for rising special education costs, providing additional financial relief for local school building projects, and investing in literacy and English-Language Learning programs," said Senator Jason Lewis (D-Winchester), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. "I am proud to have been the lead Senate sponsor of the Fair Share Amendment. With this revenue from the state's highest earners, we can continue to invest in the high-quality schools and innovative transportation projects that help make Massachusetts a top-ranking state to live in and raise a family."

Education

Education investments in the supplemental budget include funding for:

• Special Education Costs. $248 million, including circuit breaker reimbursements to local school districts.
• Public Higher Education Deferred Maintenance. $190 million for higher education overall, including $10 million for lab resources for community colleges following the success of MassEducate.
• Career Technical Education Capital Grants. $100 million to expand capacity and accommodate additional career technical education opportunities.
• Local School Construction Relief. $50 million to support cities, towns and school districts experiencing extraordinary school construction increases due to inflation or the impacts of tariffs.
• Literacy Growth. $25 million to support accelerated literacy growth for students in kindergarten through grade 3.
• English Language Learning Programs. $10 million for educational grants to reduce the waitlist for services for speakers of languages other than English to learn English and subsequently help fill in-demand jobs.

Transportation

Transportation investments in the supplemental budget include funding for:

• MBTA Improvements and Infrastructure Upgrades. $370 million for improvements and infrastructure upgrades across the MBTA system, comprising:
  $200 million to replenish the MBTA budget reserve after the MBTA's recent use of reserve funds for operations support.
  $100 million in workforce and safety training to implement Federal Transit Administration improvement recommendations.
  $50 million for commuter rail system maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.
  $20 million for the MBTA's low-income fare relief program.
• Local Road Improvements. $190 million for shovel-ready transportation improvements to roads, bridges, and culverts.
• Regional Equity in Transportation. $105 million for regional transit initiatives composed of:
  $50 million for capital improvements to equipment and facilities at Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) that serve and connect all regions of the Commonwealth.
  $25 million for RTA workforce recruitment and retention improvement efforts.
  $20 million for ferry infrastructure improvements.
  $10 million for on-demand micro-transit shuttles and Last Mile grants to foster an innovative multimodal transit system.
• World Cup Preparations. $5 million for transportation improvements associated with the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

Amendments

During debate on the Senate floor, members from around the state contributed to the initial proposal with amendments reflecting their priorities and district needs. Notable amendments adopted during the debate include:

• Amendment 128 from Senator Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn). Sets aside funds for assistive reading technologies so local school districts can purchase resources such as audio books and voice-text format books to bolster struggling readers in Massachusetts, including children with vision impairments, learning disabilities, or physical disabilities.
• Amendment 213 from Senator Nick Collins (D-South Boston). Supports nurses by allocating funds toward expansion of the facilities at UMass Boston's Manning College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the ninth largest nursing school in the country that offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs; also directs UMass Boston to study the feasibility of establishing a satellite campus at the site of Carney Hospital in Dorchester.
• Amendment 106 from Senator Julian Cyr (D-Truro). Directs funds for ferry services including pier and dock maintenance serving passengers between the South Coast, Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha's Vineyard.
• Amendment 223 from Senator Lydia Edwards (D-East Boston). Directs funds toward planning and construction of a ferry dock in the East Boston Designated Port Area, along with money for ferry terminal capital improvements in Winthrop.
• Amendment 15 from Senator John Keenan (D-Quincy). Edits the language regarding the bill's supplemental grant program, which helps school districts deal with skyrocketing material costs for school building projects due to inflation, to also include projects with material cost increases due to tariffs.

A comprehensive fact sheet detailing the investments proposed by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, including further investments and funding sources, is available in the Senate's press room. Video of debate is publicly available on the Senate website for viewing, as is the full list of investments approved by the Senate.

Different versions having passed both chambers of the Legislature, the branches will now move to resolve their differences before sending a compromise bill to the Governor for her signature.

Gardening

Boost Your Outdoor Enjoyment by Managing Ticks and Mosquitoes

by Melinda Myers
Summer is synonymous with fun outdoor activities like barbeques, lawn games, hikes, and gardening. But it can also mean unwanted pests like mosquitoes and ticks. Employing a few preventative strategies can help minimize the annoyance and reduce the risk of tick- and mosquito-borne diseases.

Start by creating a landscape that is less inviting to mosquitoes and ticks. Reduce mosquitoes' daytime resting spaces by keeping your garden weeded. Removing weeds and managing neglected garden spaces will make your landscape less inviting to these pests.

Evaluate drainage patterns in your landscape. Improve drainage by amending the soil in garden beds with organic matter. Consider adding a rain garden to capture water run-off from the roof and hard surfaces, putting it to work in a garden filled with beautiful flowers for you and pollinators to enjoy. Water collected in these gardens drains within 24 to 36 hours and doesn't provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Drain water from toys, buckets or any object that can hold water and serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Clear debris from gutters so the water flows freely through the gutter and out the downspout.

Change the water in birdbaths at least once a week. Make it part of your routine whenever you water container gardens. Or you can install a small pump to keep the water moving, which prevents mosquito breeding.

Toss a Mosquito Dunk (SummitResponsibleSolutions.com) in birdbaths, rain barrels and water features. This certified organic insecticide only kills the larvae of mosquitoes, black flies, and fungus gnats. It won't harm bees, butterflies, birds, pets and people.

Help reduce the tick population in your landscape by keeping the grass mowed and removing brush, groundcovers, firewood piles, and bird feeders near your home or where your family frequents. Consider creating a tick-safe area where your family frequents, and limit time spent in tick-infested areas. Widen pathways, properly prune trees to increase light, exclude deer, and discourage rodents to reduce the risk of exposure. Place children's swing sets away from the woods and cover the soil with woodchip mulch. Eliminate invasive barberry, honeysuckle, and buckthorn that create a tick-friendly habitat.

Wear light-colored clothing to more easily spot ticks before they move onto your skin. Loose fitting, light-colored clothing is also less attractive to mosquitoes. Wear long pants and tuck them into socks and tuck your shirt into your pants. Ticks often gain access through pant legs or shirttails and crawl up, looking for a place to settle in and feed.

Consider spraying your clothing with an insecticide labeled for repelling and killing ticks and mosquitoes. Select an insecticide spray like Summit® Green Armor Insect Repellent labeled for use on clothing. Read and follow label directions and let your clothing dry before wearing it.

Remove and check your clothing for ticks anytime you have been outdoors. Showering within two hours of spending time outdoors can greatly reduce your risk of Lyme and possibly other tick-borne diseases. Always conduct a tick check, paying special attention to your underarms, belly button, in and around your ears, hair, behind your knees, and around your waist.

Keep mosquitoes away when hosting a party, gardening, or relaxing outdoors. Use a fan to create a gentle breeze that keeps weak-flying mosquitoes away from you and your guests. Some gardeners even take a small fan into the garden while weeding.

Citronella oil and scented candles have some mosquito-repelling properties. Scatter the candles in outdoor spaces within a few feet where family and friends gather for some short-term relief.

A combination of these strategies will help minimize your exposure to these biting insects so you can better enjoy the outdoors this summer.

Melinda Myers has written over 20 gardening books, including The Midwest Gardener's Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses "How to Grow Anything" DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda's Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers' web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.