The Buzz Online

Dr. Paul L. Dann, stepped down as executive director of NFI North in Contoocook, to become president and CEO for North American Family Institute effective Jan. 1.  He succeeds the agency’s founder, Dr. Yitzhak Bakal, who completed a 50-year tenure with the organization.  Luke Reynard, COO of NFI North was named executive director of NFI North. NFI North is a nonprofit human service agency specializing in-home and community-based services for children, youth, adults, seniors and families with emotional, behavioral and educational needs.

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Granite VNA in Concord was honored by Granite State Independent Living (GSIL) with the 2023 Community Partner award, which recognizes local organizations and individuals who promote life with independence for people with disabilities and those navigating the natural aging process.

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The Exeter Area New Car Dealers Association contributed $107,900 toward repairing the Camp Lincoln Amphitheater, operated by the Southern District YMCA.

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The MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank) Fund at NH Charitable Foundation has awarded $75,000 to 40 local nonprofit organizations. This includes $58,000 donated to 23 local agencies and $17,000 to 17 local food pantries.

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McLane Middleton, a law firm in Manchester, elected attorneys Laura B. Dodge and Brian B. Garrett as directors of the firm. Dodge is vice chair of the firm’s Real Estate Practice Group. Garrett is chair of the firm’s Education Law Practice Group. 

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DeStefano & Associates Inc. in Portsmouth completed construction of a 900-square-foot Aroma Joe’s at 270 Lafayette Road in Seabrook. DeStefano & Associates Inc. also completed a 1,200-square-foot Dunkin Donuts in Limerick, Maine.

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Dartmouth Health’s chief communications and marketing officer was named in a national ranking of 60 hospital and health system chief marketing officers to know. Jennifer E. Gilkie was recognized in the 2023 list by Becker’s Hospital Review.

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NHTI, Concord’s Community College, introduced Workforce Education, a new collaborative educational department to expand the college’s efforts in providing skillsets and continuing education. The goals include increased opportunities and empowerment for community members looking to expand their career knowledge and learn a new skill. Previously known as the Business Training Center, the new Workforce Education department has undergone the rebrand to further encourage career and personal exploration with NHTI.