Arts and Recreation

Manhattan Short Film Festival Tour Stops at Jaffrey's Park Theatre

The gold standard of short film festivals brings its best to Jaffrey's performing arts center

Photo courtesy of The Park Theatre

JAFFREY, New Hampshire (September 22, 2025) The Manhattan Short Film Festival, one of the world's most celebrated showcases of short-form cinema, is embarking once again on a global tour and will be hosted regionally at The Park Theatre in Jaffrey, New Hampshire. From September 28 to October 2, 2025, film enthusiasts can experience a curated selection of the festival's finest short films in a comfy chair in the King Screening Room at The Park Theatre.

This prestigious festival, now in its 28th year, brings together captivating stories from filmmakers across the globe, offering audiences a unique opportunity to view thought-provoking and innovative short films. The Manhattan Short Film Festival is renowned for its diverse lineup, featuring a range of genres, styles, and perspectives that spark conversation and inspire creativity.

The 2025 festival lineup features an eclectic mix of short films, including powerful dramas, heartwarming comedies, and innovative animations. This year's selection, 10 engrossing short films chosen from thousands of submissions, represents filmmakers from over a dozen countries, tackling themes such as human connection, resilience, and cultural identity. Each film, under 20 minutes in length, delivers a unique perspective, ensuring an engaging and emotionally rich experience for viewers.

Many past shorts have been considered for Academy Awards; two have even won the coveted prize. But this isn't entirely a passive viewing festival, as audience members will vote for their favorite short film and favorite actor.

As a judge, you will be given a brochure and a voting card so you can vote for your favorite actor and favorite film. Winning filmmakers receive cash and/or filmmaking accessories to further their talent, and they will have their short reviewed by the Academy Award Committee, with the possibility of having their film in the running for an Oscar.

As anyone who has been to this event knows, this is one hot ticket--so be sure to get yours in advance! All seven showings feature the same 10 short films. The program is roughly 2-1/2 hours, including an intermission, but give yourselves extra time to fill out your ballot.

Screenings will take place daily from September 28 through October 2 (except Mon. & Tues.) at The Park Theatre, located at 19 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH. Tickets are priced at $10 for general admission and $9 for seniors, students, children, teachers and veterans. To reserve your seat, call 603-532-8888 or visit theparktheatre.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the Box Office.

Don't miss this chance to be part of a global cinematic event, where audiences worldwide simultaneously view and vote for their favorite films. Join us at The Park Theatre for an unforgettable celebration of storytelling through the art of short film.

The Park Theatre is located at 19 Main Street in downtown Jaffrey, NH, just 95 minutes from downtown Boston. The facility is completely accessible. The theatre has a bar lounge and concession stand.

TV's "Good Times" Star Jimmie "JJ" Walker Brings His Stand-Up Comedy To Park Theatre Stage

Known for his catchphrase, "Dyn-O-Mite!," Jimmie is at The Park on Friday, October 3

Photo courtesy of The Park Theatre

JAFFREY, New Hampshire (September 22, 2025) Rising from the streets of New York's ghettos to television superstardom, Jimmie Walker personifies the great American success story. His catchphrase "Dyn-o-mite!" is part of the modern vernacular, and he became such a major celebrity in the 1970s that Time Magazine named him "Comedian of the Decade." He brings his acclaimed stand-up comedy to The Park Theatre in Jaffrey, New Hampshire on Friday, October 3 at 7:30 p.m.

James Carter Walker Jr., known professionally as Jimmie Walker, is an American actor and comedian. Walker is best known for portraying James Evans Jr. ("JJ"), the oldest son of Florida and James Evans Sr., on the CBS television series Good Times, which originally ran from 1974–1979. Walker was nominated for Golden Globe awards for Best Supporting Actor In A Television Series in 1975 and 1976.

Whether it's his first love of performing stand-up or captivating millions with his Emmy-winning role in Good Times, Jimmie Walker has entertained audiences worldwide for over four decades.

Tickets for Jimmie JJ Walker are $35, $40, and $45. All seats are reserved. Buy in advance at theparktheatre.org or by calling the box office at (603) 532-8888. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with free music by John Brickley in The Lounge.

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.

Coming Up at Nova Arts in Keene

Moniff Event & Jazz matinee at Nova Arts October 3 and October 5!

Join us Friday, October 3 for an immersive evening of live cinema and music, as well as Sunday, October 5 for a night of jazz and improvisation.

On Friday, October 3, Nova Arts presents Trying, a one-of-a-kind audio-visual performance by filmmaker and composer Kyle Turgeon. Turgeon's piece explores grief and memory through the story of a young couple navigating the loss of a family member.

Turgeon performs the score live on cello, synth, and piano while simultaneously assembling the film in real time. By doing this he creates a version of art unique to each audience. His work has been showcased at festivals including DOC NYC, the New Orleans Film Festival, and the Toronto Arthouse Film Festival, drawing audiences into shared experiences of connection and presence. This performance is a part of this year's Monadnock International Film Festival; be sure to check out the rest of the programming happening around town at moniff.org

The weekend of music continues on Sunday, October 5 when Nova Arts welcomes Taylor Ho Bynum (cornet) and Tomas Fujiwara (drums, percussion, electronics) alongside the Julian Gerstin Sextet.

Bynum and Fujiwara have collaborated for over three decades, recording more than 25 albums together in ensembles like Illegal Crowns, the Thirteenth Assembly, and their celebrated duo. Their music reimagines the horn and drums format into explosive improvisation.

The lead act of the night is the Julian Gerstin Sextet, who blend original jazz with Caribbean rhythms, Arabic melodies, and Balkan influences. Featuring clarinetist Anna Patton, trumpeter Don Anderson, pianist Eugene Uman, bassist Wes Brown, drummer Ben James, and Gerstin on world percussion. The group delivers a vibrant global sound shaped by their extensive experience performing with artists across genres and musical traditions.

On October 3, doors open at 7:00 p.m. and music will start around 7:30 p.m.

On October 5, doors open at 5:00 p.m. and music will start around 5:30.

Access For All tickets available thanks to a grant from the TD Charitable Foundation. (Note: To purchase more than one Access For All ticket, each must be done in a separate transaction.)

Both shows are all ages and seating is first come first served.

Tickets will be available at novaarts.org/events

Nova Arts is located at 48 Emerald St, Keene, NH.

Regional News

Second Chance Animal Services Rescues 26 Golden Retrievers from Neglect Case

Photo courtesy of Second Chance

EAST BROOKFIELD, MA, September 23, 2025--Last month, Second Chance Animal Services took in 26 Golden Retrievers, including three mother dogs and their 23 puppies, rescued from a breeder now facing animal cruelty charges for neglect. The dogs were discovered living in deplorable conditions before being brought to safety.

It's believed that the mother dogs had never even been outside before their rescue. Everyday experiences most pets take for granted, such as walking on grass, climbing stairs, or exploring new spaces, were completely foreign to them. They arrived timid, fearful, and in need of patient, compassionate care. "The moms came to us with very limited interactions and life experiences, but little by little they are learning what it means to feel safe and loved," said Second Chance's Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray. "We gave these precious families time away from the spotlight to heal and ensure they were healthy before sharing their story, and it is heartwarming to see the progress they are making."

The puppies, just under two weeks old at the time of rescue, were placed in foster homes with the mother dogs, where they have been receiving around-the-clock care. After weeks of nurturing, the puppies are now thriving and expected to be ready for adoption beginning September 27 at 10:00 a.m. Some will be attending puppy yoga at Timberyard Brewing on Saturday as well to help raise funds for their medical care.

The rescue of these Golden Retrievers is expected to cost more than $15,000, covering long-term foster care, food, supplies, and medical treatment, including spay and neuter for all. According to CEO and founder Sheryl Blancato, this is just one example of the many rescues Second Chance undertakes every day. "Far more stories of pets rescued come through our doors than can ever be shared publicly, but each one receives the same dedication and care," noted Blancato. The nonprofit is asking the community for help covering these expenses so they can continue to respond to animals in crisis. Donations can be made at https://GiveButter.com/GoldenRescue.

For those interested in adopting one of the goldens, Second Chance expects Saturday to be a very busy day. Prospective adopters are strongly encouraged to fill out an adoption survey in advance at www.secondchanceanimals.org/adopt and to be patient with staff and volunteers. All adoptions will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Financial Focus®

Financial tips for first-time college student

Sending your child to college is an exciting milestone filled with new experiences, friendships and opportunities for them to grow. For many families, it's also the first time your student will be managing their own money independently.

The good news is that helping your child develop smart money habits doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a few simple strategies, you can guide them to take control of their finances and avoid common pitfalls that trip up many college students.

Start with a budget. Creating a budget might sound boring, but it's instrumental in helping your student take control of their finances. Many people use the 50/30/20 rule, which calls for putting 50% of income toward needs, 30% toward wants and 20% toward savings and other financial goals. So, if your child has $1,000 per month from financial aid, work or family support, they'd spend $500 on essentials like textbooks and food, $300 on fun activities and $200 on savings or paying down debt.

Encourage them to track their spending and subtract anything they pay out from their total monthly funds. This helps them know exactly how much money they have at any given time. There are plenty of free apps to help monitor expenses, or they can simply use a notebook to write down what they spend each day.

Guide them toward smart credit habits. That first credit card in college can be both exciting and scary for parents. The key is helping students understand how to use credit wisely by paying off their balance on time every month. This helps build a positive credit history that will help them qualify for better rates on car loans, apartments and eventually a home mortgage.

Make sure your student understands that credit cards aren't free money. It takes discipline to charge only what they can afford to pay off completely when the bill arrives. Otherwise, late fees and interest charges can be substantial.

Pay attention to everyday expenses. College life doesn't have to break the bank. Remind your child to take advantage of student discounts available at restaurants, clothing and grocery stores and entertainment venues.

Help them set spending limits for discretionary categories like entertainment, dining out and personal expenses. Here's where that budget can help set clear limits to prevent overspending. It's easier to say no to that expensive coffee or designer clothing when they know it would put them over their weekly limit.

Think about the future. While it might seem early to worry about life after college, making smart financial moves now can benefit them later. If your student has loans, consider encouraging them to make small payments while they're still in school, even though they're not required to do so. This reduces the amount of interest that builds up over time.

Encourage an emergency fund, even if they can only save $25 per week. Having money set aside can give them flexibility after graduation, whether they want to move to a new city for a job, take time to travel, purchase a used car or pursue graduate school.

Teaching your child to manage money in college isn't just about helping them survive until graduation. The habits they develop now will shape their financial future for decades to come. By guiding them to start with a simple budget, use credit responsibly and make thoughtful spending choices, you're helping set the stage for success in college and beyond.

Gardening

Improve Your Garden Soil with Fall Leaves and Landscape Trimmings

Hugelkultur gardening, or mound gardens, takes the lasagna gardening method one step further with a bottom layer of logs, branches and fall leaves that decompose, adding organic matter and nutrients to the soil.
Photo courtesy of MelindaMyers.com

by Melinda Myers
Fall is a great time to improve your soil for next year's garden. Many of the resources needed are readily available and many are free at this time of the year.

Start by putting fall leaves to work in the garden. Use your mower with the bag attached to shred and collect fall leaves. Work them into the top 8" to 12" of soil. They break down over winter, adding organic matter and nutrients to the soil before you begin planting in the spring.

Fall leaves are also a great resource for those of you minimizing soil disruption with no till, also known as no dig, soil care. Spread several inches of the leaves over the soil surface. The leaf mulch protects the soil in new and vacant gardens from erosion and compaction over the winter. They keep the soil a bit cooler in the spring so you may need to adjust your planting times.

Cover bare soil in perennial gardens and mixed borders with fall leaves. They are a great mulch, suppressing weeds, conserving moisture and improving the soil as they decompose. A layer of leaves insulates the soil, helping insects and other wildlife that overwinter underground. Plus, they are free.

Incorporating two to four inches of compost or other organic matter into the top 8 to 12 inches of soil is another option. Organic matter adds nutrients but also improves drainage and aeration in heavy soil and increases water- and nutrient-holding capacity in fast draining soils.

Adding compost also builds the soil ecosystem. It increases the number and activity of beneficial soil organisms such as good bacteria, fungi, microorganisms and insects. Healthy soil grows healthier plants more resistant to pests and environmental stresses.

Another no till method uses a five-inch layer of compost on top of non-shiny cardboard, covering the soil surface. The cardboard helps suppress the weeds and the compost provides the growing medium for seeds and transplants. The compost is replenished yearly, and the cardboard eventually breaks down, adding organic matter to the soil.

Convert landscape and garden trimmings, fall leaves and compost into a rich planting medium with lasagna gardening. This system employs composting methodology to build soil in free-standing or contained raised beds.

Start your lasagna garden by measuring and marking the layout of your garden bed. Cut any grass and weeds in this area very short and cover with moist newspaper or cardboard. This smothers any existing grass and weeds.

Next, add a two- to three-inch layer of peat moss or compost. Top this with four to eight inches of plant debris such as leaves, plant-based kitchen scraps, herbicide-free grass clippings, straw or similar materials. Sprinkle a bit of low nitrogen fertilizer over this layer. Cover with an inch of compost. Repeat the layers, just like making lasagna, until your garden is 18 to 24 inches high.

Hugelkultur, or mound gardens take this one step further. The bottom layer is made of logs, branches and fall leaves. Do not include black walnut tree trimmings that are toxic to many plants or those of cedar and black locust that are very slow to decompose. The rotting logs and branches absorb water, making it available to the plants in the garden. As the tree trimmings decompose, they add organic matter and nutrients to the soil. Then top this with a lasagna garden.

The lasagna and Hugelkultur beds gradually settle but the benefits remain. Continue to build additional lasagna layers every few years on top of established beds as needed.

Select a method that best fits your gardening style. Investing time in building healthy soil reaps years of benefits.

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" instant video series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda's Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.