Arts and Recreation

Viking River Voyages Sponsors Park Theatre's "Dickens Fest"

8-Day European Viking Voyage for 2 to be raffled as a fundraiser for the New Hampshire nonprofit theatre

Photo courtesy of Park Theatre

Jaffrey, New Hampshire (November 6, 2025) The Park Theatre announced this morning that Viking River Voyages will be the lead sponsor of the 2025 New England Dickens Fest. This will be the third Dickens Fest produced by the Jaffrey, New Hampshire performing arts center. As part of the sponsorship, Viking is giving an 8-day European river cruise (winner selects from 6 different voyages) for two to the nonprofit theatre to be used in a fundraising raffle.

With more than 450 awards to its name, Viking is an acclaimed leader in the ship travel industry and was rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler for the second year in a row in the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards. This marks the first time a travel company has won these three categories in back-to-back years.

"The Park Theatre is so blessed and proud to have Viking as the presenting sponsor of this year's Dickens Fest. Viking is one of most admired cruise ship companies in the world. Their gift of a European cruise for two to help us raise funds for our nonprofit theatre is so generous and kind. Beyond fundraising, it will help us make even more news about the robust schedule of events we have scheduled for this year. We can't thank Viking enough," said Steve Jackson, CEO and Managing Director of The Park Theatre.

Raffle tickets will cost $25 each (5 for $100) and will go on sale starting Wednesday, November 12. They can be purchased online at parkraffle.com, at the theatre Box Office & lobby and selected retail locations. The winning ticket will be drawn on Sunday. December 21 at 2 p.m. in the theatre lobby. Ticket holders need not be present to win. Must be 18 or older, and a citizen of the U.S. to enter. Full details and rules can be found at the website.

Dickens Fest Schedule Announced

The third New England Dickens Fest returns to The Park with 3-weeks of live concerts, a Dickens author chat, multiple Dickens films, a new play about Charles Dickens as well as events such as Dickens High Tea, Reading from the Big Chair (regional celebrities reading from Dickens' work), the always popular Kazoo Caroling Choir, and much more.

Dickens Fest will have its opening ceremonies on Friday December 5. After the candlelight reading of the festival's proclamation, the evening's centerpiece is the return of The Heather Pierson Trio for the fourth time with their performance of the acclaimed Vince Guaraldi jazz soundtrack to A Charlie Brown Christmas. Other music events in December include The New Hampshire Jazz Orchestra with their "A Swingin' Yuletide" big band concert on Saturday, December 20.

Live events include the world premiere of a new play written by The Park's CEO, Steve Jackson, entitled Dickens' America, starring Adam Sowers and directed by Lisa Bostnar on December 13. Also, Charles Dickens expert and author, Eric Stanway, will give a talk on the connection of Brattleboro, Vermont and Dickens' novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood on December 6. Project Shakespeare brings their annual production of Dickens' A Christmas Carol to the theatre on Sunday, December 21.

Humorists Fred Marple (Ken Sheldon) and Rebecca Rule (NHPBS) will present A Yankee Christmas with stories, comedy and song on December 12.

Movies will include the best adaptations of Charles Dickens novels. They include Great Expectations (1946), The Mystery of Edwin Drood (1935), The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), David Copperfield (1935), and Scrooge (1935).

The Park will also present their annual screening of It's a Wonderful Life (1946) on December 7. The acclaimed holiday film starring Jimmy Stewart, is based on Dickens' A Christmas Carol.

Finally, Santa Claus return to The Park Theatre for pictures with the children at the annual Santa's Party on December 14. A free screening of the original Home Alone (1990) will be part of the holiday festivities that are sponsored each year by the Given Family.

For tickets, details and the entire schedule of Dickens Fest, go to dickensfest.org or call the box office (603) 532-8888.

The Park Theatre performing arts center is located in downtown Jaffrey, NH at 19 Main Street. Just 95 minutes from Boston and a one hour drive from Worcester, MA. The facility is fully accessible. Other information about the theatre can be found at theparktheatre.org.

America's Premier Allman Brothers Tribute Band, THE BROTHERS PROECT, Brings Southern Rock Magic to The Park Theatre

Photo courtesy of Park Theatre

Jaffrey, New Hampshire (November 13, 2025) Get ready to ride the wave of classic Southern rock as Boston-based tribute band The Brothers Project takes the stage at The Park Theatre in Jaffrey, NH on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Renowned for their electrifying performances and faithful recreations of the Allman Brothers Band's iconic sound, this is a night of dual guitars, soulful harmonies, and timeless jams you won't want to miss. Tickets are $25 and available online at theparktheatre.org or at the box office.

Hailing from the heart of New England's music scene, The Brothers Project has earned a devoted following for their passionate tributes to the legendary Allman Brothers. With searing slide guitar, driving rhythms, and spot-on renditions of classics like "Jessica," "Whipping Post," and "Midnight Rider," the band delivers an authentic experience that transports audiences straight to the Fillmore East.

"This is more than a tribute--it's a celebration of the music that defined a generation," says The Brothers Project "We're thrilled to bring that energy to Jaffrey and share it with fans at such an intimate, historic venue."

The performance takes place at the award-winning Park Theatre, a cultural gem located at 19 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH. This intimate 330-seat venue, originally opened in 1922 and lovingly rebuilt in 2020, offers exceptional acoustics, comfortable seating, and a warm, community-focused atmosphere. Fully accessible. The theatre Lounge bar will be open at 6:00 p.m. with local music artist, Eve Pierce.

Coming Up at Nova Arts in Keene

Saturday, Nov 15, Circuits in the Woods

If you're looking for a weekend of musical discovery, join us Saturday, November 15 for Circuits in the Woods, an electronic music festival taking place in downtown Brattleboro, VT.

This all-day event features workshops, performances, and lectures from nearly 20 artists, plus a hands-on "synth petting zoo" where attendees can explore instruments and sound creation. The festival celebrates Vermont's pioneering role in electronic music.

Headliners include Jeffrey Alexander + The Heavy Lidders (Philadelphia) and Wet Tuna (Guilford, VT). Presentations feature Charles Dodge, a trailblazer in computer music and longtime Dartmouth professor, and Caldon Glover-Wessel, who will give a talk titled "The Queer Roots of Industrial," tracing LGBTQ+ influence on early industrial and experimental scenes.

Additional performances include Glasspack, Burial Woods, Dave Seidel, Doc No, MMMM, Verlectric, Chris Randall, Trevor Robinson, and members of The Vermont Synthesizer Society, among others.

A limited $40 day pass grants access to all festival venues and performances. Individual venue entry will also be available, with a pay-what-you-can option to keep the experience open to everyone.

Attendees are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations to support FoodWorks in Brattleboro, helping neighbors in need during the festival weekend.

Festival activities start at 12:00 p.m. in downtown Brattleboro. The event is all ages and open to the public.

Tickets and more information available at novaarts.org/event.

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

Regional News

Lights Bringing Joy to the Holiday Season!

Personal tour of the lights and horses available upon request

Winchester, NH - Draft Gratitude, a nonprofit draft horse rescue based in Winchester, is once again hosting Holiday Hoof, a magical drive-through holiday light display that's become a beloved community tradition. The event brings festive cheer to local families while raising funds to care for the senior draft horses who call Draft Gratitude home.

Open every weekend in December (Friday-Sunday evenings, 5-8 PM), Holiday Hoof takes place at 148 Ashuelot Street in Winchester, NH. Admission is $20 per car, and no reservations are required--donations are collected at the gate.

This year, Draft Gratitude is proud to provide free family passes through local elementary schools, ensuring that every family has the chance to enjoy the lights regardless of their ability to pay.

"It means so much to see families smiling and kids filled with wonder," said Becky Roy, founder of Draft Gratitude. "The Holiday Hoof isn't just about the lights--it's about community. It's about kindness. And it's about giving back to the senior horses who gave so much of themselves through years of hard work."

Visitors can drive through as many times as they like to take in thousands of twinkling lights and festive displays--each one created with care by volunteers and local sponsors. Guests are invited to stop by BarnFinds, the on-site gift and tack shop, to enjoy hot cocoa, holiday treats, and locally made gifts.

Over the past ten years, Draft Gratitude has saved more than 100 senior draft horses, providing safe retirement, medical care, and lifelong safety for these gentle giants. It costs an average of $32 per day to provide feed, pain management, and care for each horse.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Local businesses can help light up the season while supporting a meaningful cause--contact Becky at 603-762-3266 for details.

For more information about Holiday Hoof or to learn more about Draft Gratitude's mission, visit www.draftgratitude.org.

Financial Focus®

Generosity meets strategy with tax-savvy donations

Giving to charity feels good, but understanding the tax benefits can benefit both the charity and you. Whether you donate regularly or are planning your first gift, knowing how charitable tax deductions work can help you make informed decisions while supporting causes you care about. Here are things to consider:

The basics: Itemizing vs. standard deduction. To benefit from charitable tax deductions, you need to itemize your deductions on your tax return. Everyone automatically receives a standard deduction, which in 2025 is $31,500 for married couples filing jointly or $15,750 for single filers. You'll only benefit from itemizing if your total deductions, including charitable gifts, exceed these amounts.

For many people, charitable donations alone won't push them over the standard deduction threshold. However, when combined with other deductible expenses like mortgage interest or state and local taxes, itemizing can make financial sense.

If you give regularly but don't usually exceed the standard deduction, consider "stacking" your donations. Instead of donating $5,000 annually, you might donate $15,750 in one year to exceed the itemization threshold, then take the standard deduction in subsequent years.

Ensure your donation qualifies. To claim a deduction, you must give to a qualified charitable organization recognized by the IRS. You can verify an organization's status on the IRS website or ask the charity for their determination letter. Donations to individuals, even those in need, don't qualify for tax deductions.

Additionally, you can't receive personal benefits in exchange for your donation. If you give $500 to a charity but receive concert tickets worth $200, your deductible amount is only $300.

How much can you deduct? The IRS limits charitable deductions based on your adjusted gross income (AGI). For cash donations to public charities, you can typically deduct up to 60% of your AGI. If you donate stocks or other appreciated assets you've held for more than a year, the limit is generally 30% of your AGI.

If your donation exceeds these limits in a single year, you can carry forward the unused portion for up to five years.

What to donate. Think strategically about what you donate. While cash is easiest, donating appreciated stocks can provide additional tax benefits since you avoid paying capital gains taxes on the investment's growth.

Keep good records. Documentation matters. For donations under $250, a canceled check or receipt works fine. Cash donations of $250 or more need written acknowledgment from the charity. For larger non-cash donations of property exceeding $5,000 in value, the IRS requires a qualified written appraisal. Keep these records with your tax documents in case the IRS requests proof. See IRS Publication No. 526 and No. 561 for information on charitable contributions and valuing donated property.

The bottom line: Charitable giving may start with your heart, but understanding the tax implications helps you give more effectively. Work with a tax professional and a financial advisor to develop a giving strategy that aligns with both your charitable goals and financial situation. With thoughtful planning, you can maximize both your impact on causes you care about and the tax benefits you receive.

Gardening

Create Your Own Winter Containers

Winter containers filled with greenery, colorful stems, cones, berries and more can brighten the landscape all winter long
Photo courtesy of MelindaMyers.com

by Melinda Myers
Add a bit of seasonal beauty to your front steps, window boxes, and other outdoor spaces with winter containers. Fill them with greenery, berries, cones, baubles and more. You'll find many of these items in your own backyard and more at your favorite garden retailer.

Collect a few evergreen stems, interesting seedheads and pods, colorful stems, and fruit and berry covered branches from your landscape. Plants you enjoy in the winter garden are good candidates to include.

Many native plants make excellent additions to winter containers. Include berry-laden stems of plants like winterberry, dried flowers of smooth hydrangea, colorful stems of red twig dogwood, branches of paper bark birches and fruit from native crabapples, hawthorns and roses.

Collect a few evergreen cones and harvest some stems topped with seedheads and pods from gardens and native plantings. Add some airy texture and motion to your winter containers with native and ornamental grasses. Leave them in their natural state or add some paint and glitter for a bit of bling.

Do not include invasive plants like phragmites, teasel and oriental bittersweet. These will drop seeds in your landscape and soon become a problem in your gardens and surrounding natural spaces.

Convert one or two of your summer or fall containers into a winter display or start with an empty planter. Make sure the container you select can tolerate winter weather. Concrete, iron, metal, wood and fiberglass containers are best suited for year-round use. Even plastic pots will last for a few years when left outside and kept safe from damage by snow shovels and snow blowers.

Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil and water from overflowing the pot. Fill the container, up to an inch below the rim, with a well-drained potting mix, sand or topsoil. The soil helps hold the greenery, twigs and other materials in place and adds weight to keep the pot upright throughout the winter. Add a rock to the bottom of lightweight containers to prevent them from blowing over in the wind.

Use a mix of evergreens to provide a variety of textures, various shades of green and a backdrop for the items. Pine, spruce, arborvitae, boxwood and junipers may be growing in your landscape and most of these are available at garden centers. Spruce tips make it easy to create vertical accents in your containers. Select fresh greenery with pliable branches and firmly attached needles. Secure the stems by placing them at least four inches into the soil.

Next, add the other materials you purchased or collected from your landscape. Create vertical interest with colorful and fruit-laden stems and branches. Tuck in seedheads, pods, cones and colorful branches for added interest throughout the arrangement. Depending on your style, add artificial materials such as ribbon and outdoor ornaments. It's your opportunity to be creative.

Water thoroughly to remove air pockets and lock your ingredients in place. Keep the soil moist until the potting mix freezes to extend the beauty of your winter arrangement. If possible, set your planter in a sheltered location out of drying winter winds and sunlight to keep it looking good even longer.

Once your container is complete, it's time to relax and enjoy your favorite winter activities and celebrations.

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.