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*** MEET OUR 20 OUTSTANDING WOMEN!! ***
KAREN MATHIEU JOHNSONKaren Mathieu Johnson is more than outstanding according to her son, Brandon. She is phenomenal. Karen is a single mother who worked three jobs at times to provide for her three sons. Despite what must have been an exhausting schedule, she was always present for her boys whether it was an after-school event, basketball or football games, or just the dinner table to enjoy eating and talking and then helping with homework. Karen has worked for over 22 years as an educator to at-risk students serving as an advocate for them and their families. She’s been recognized among her peers for incorporating classroom lessons with real life experiences in alternative learning programs. In addition, Karen organizes food, clothing and toy drives for less fortunate families in her school district. And, as Brandon puts it, Karen does this without expecting recognition, return favors, or even a thank you.
MARY AHERNMary Ahern is a strong, beautiful woman that deserves the world. Those words are from her daughter, Samantha, who says her mother has stood by her through medical problems, bullying, and financial struggles. Mary realized that something was wrong with her daughter after endless tantrums and irrational behavior at the age of 6. At her insistence, doctors performed tests and diagnosed Samantha with a number of behavioral disorders but that didn’t satisfy Mary who stood her ground and demanded an MRI. Doctors then realized there were hundreds of cysts on her daughter’s brain. If it were not for Mary’s advocacy, this diagnosis may never have been found. Now Mary is battling her own illnesses that includes a cancer that invades bone marrow and causes enormous pain. Nonetheless, says Samantha, she selflessly focuses on her daughter’s needs even as an adult and is truly amazing.
JO GELINASJo Gelinas gives from her heart and is a pillar in her community. Truly, says her nominator Lyn-Dee, when Jo’s name is mentioned in public there is an outburst of smiles and positive energy. For the last 35 years, she has been a leader with the 4-H program in Goffstown working with school children as well as running a horse camp in the summer. Jo is tirelessly attending, helping or organizing events that benefit all in their community, even the 4-legged ones! Lyn-Dee says Jo brightens everyone’s day and completely embodies the idea of peace on earth for all. She is considered to be a role-model and her effort and dedication is described as both powerful and contagious. To borrow from the Cheers theme song, one could say that when Jo enters a room “everybody knows her name…and they’re always glad you came.”
ANNETTE ESCALANTEAnnette Escalante has a “can do” attitude that has saved lives. Her colleague, Jim, says when Annette came to be the director at Keystone Hall, the non-profit organization was in danger of being closed. Within a short time, the alcohol and drug detoxification programs at Keystone met all state and federal expectations and included the addition of 3 new programs. But Annette saw the need was even greater and began the Cynthia Day Family Center to help women with children who are struggling with addiction issues, or mothers that are expecting and need to detox, recover and learn parenting skills. After seeing too many early deaths because programs were full, Annette pushed hard to get a new facility. A ribbon cutting ceremony was recently held on a place that now doubles Keystone Hall’s capacity because, Jim says, Annette meets every obstacle with an open mind and tenacious drive.
JUDY MARTIN-ROYCEJudy Martin-Royce’s photograph should appear next to the definition of “dedicated.” That’s according to her daughter, Mandi, who says Judy thrives in helping others. Judy is the Vice President of Human Resources for Atrium and values her position at the leading medical device provider. Outside of her rewarding profession, Judy advocates for abused and neglected children in the New Hampshire court system as a CASA volunteer. She’s completed the 2-day, 39 mile, Avon Breast Cancer walk – twice – and raised over $10,000. She is committed to caring for her elderly parents who also live with her. Mandi adds that her mother’s accomplishments are most visible through the pride of her children and grandchildren and why, her daughter says, Judy exemplifies the words intellect, courage and compassion.
PAMME BOUTSELISPamme Boutselis is really “one of a kind.” Her friend, and fellow author, Kathy, says she has boundless energy and demonstrates it with a virtual laundry list of the community events and organizations that she has participated in and often taken leadership roles including Marguerite’s Place and the Boys and Girls Club. She has passed the value good citizenship onto her children who also have been active in the community. Pamme was diagnosed with stage 3 Lymphoma ten years ago but, Kathy says, she “carries on.” She raised four children as a single parent s and recently returned to college to work on her own degree. This year, Pamme is creating a scholarship for a graduating Litchfield high school senior who’s been active in the school community through service and volunteering. She would not have been able to do many of the things she has been involved in without the support and encouragement of her now-grown children, who inspire her everyday to be the kind of person she has always asked them to be.
KATE SPENCERKate has spirit. Just ask her any of the girls she has coached over the past 5 years, says her friend Lynn. Not only does she lead and mentor the Bedford Jaguars and the Lurgio Middle School cheer squad in a sport that is her passion, but transforms these young girls into strong, confident, passionate individuals who respect themselves, accept the differences of others, and understand the value of “team.” And the respect is mutual. She’s also led her team to win 2 national titles. Last year she spearheaded the state’s largest Cheer event, the Bedford/Goffstown Season Premier, which showcased over 1700 cheerleaders. Kate also finds time to volunteer with the ballet school that presents “The Nutracker” at the Dana Center each Christmas. As Lynn puts it, one would expect that being the mother of 11 year old triplets is enough to round out Kate’s days, but she is, indeed, exceptional.
PAMELA MARIANOPamela Mariano's heart is bigger than life itself. That's how her friend Lyn describes her, as well as having strong faith and always thinking of others. Pam and her husband own Bailey's Bar & Grille in Townsend and, every Wednesday, donate meals to families in need as part of the program that Pam volunteers for called 'Mommies Mobile Meals.' And, while every business owner needs to make money in order to be successful, Pam still makes sure that 10% of each month's profit is donated to local charities. During the holidays, there are 'Giving Trees' set up in the restaurant so patrons and staff can donate gifts for children in need. According to Lyn, the restaurant is really just the vessel for which Pam is able to help others. Pam has also organized groups to raise money for a playground in her community as well $50,000 for Project Graduation.
MARY HARDYMary Hardy knows how to turn a concept into a reality. Those words are from Kathleen who says that Mary single-handedly created a service-driven program called "Blue Star Projects" through the Bodyworks Karate School in one year's time so students would have an avenue in which to give back to local communities. The first project included the donation of blankets and a van full of clothes and food to the "Friends of Forgotten Children." Mary then organized a benefit for the Merrimack Country SPCA. As spring approached, Kathleen says, Mary created a core team to fundraise for the Making Strides breast cancer walk and, through pink t-shirt sales, they were able to bring in more than 4 times the amount they expected. Mary's selfless attitude is effusive and she worked her magic again at the end of 2011, this time benefitting the Louden Food Pantry with 3 vehicles full of food and almost $500 in cash donations.
KATHLEEN SARGENTKathy always goes the extra mile. That's a nice compliment given by her daughter, Stephanie, who says her Mom never stops helping. Kathy is a math teacher at Goffstown High School and teaches students who have math and reading deficiencies. Whether it's arriving at school early, giving up lunch time for extra help or opening up her home for tutoring, Kathy is determined to see her students succeed. She also enjoys the arts and can often be seen onstage but it is her behind-the-scenes work that means so much to those involved. Kathy helps to make and sew all of the costumes for the cast of each production. On the weekends, she can be found at her Congregational Church running the sound system during services. As Stephanie puts it, her Mom is devoted to her family, too, making sure they eat a home-cooked meal every night.
WANDA HORTONWanda Horton shines with enthusiasm and a willingness to help. Indeed, says her colleague Christine, in her work at Easter Seals, both staff and clients admire Wanda for her ability to do so much for so many. It isn't just a job for Wanda, it's a calling. When a long-time elderly patient was near death, Wanda and her team stayed with her night and day to ensure that when she passed she wasn't alone. Even when she's not at work, Wanda is volunteering for Easter Seals fundraising events or community activities. As a graduate and spokesperson for the Citizen's Police Academy, she also works closely with the Laconia Police Department during Bike Week coordinating meals for the officers. If that's not enough, Wanda is active with the high school as a member of the Boosters and coaching the Color Guard.
PATRICIA ALLARDPatricia Allard lives by the golden rule. She is one of those people, says her daughter Bonnie, that does the right thing and always treats everyone with respect and kindness. After retiring from her job at the Superior Court in Concord, Patricia found even more time to volunteer in her community of Auburn and at her church. She gives 100%, according to Bonnie, to everything she does especially when it comes to taking care of her elderly parents and extended family who live nearby. Her kindness extends to anyone in need whether it's just a phone call to check up on someone or baking something special. Patricia is active in the effort to maintain and preserve Star Island and it's historic building as well as taking care of the gardening at her church. She also has the incredible ability to find a silver lining in any situation, even when life hasn't been so easy for her, and makes the most of it.
MARY CONTSTANCEMary Constance is a tireless advocate. As the Executive Director of Camp Allen in Bedford, she has led the effort to build a welcoming, safe, and loving environment for disabled campers says Heidi, who sits on the Board of Directors. More than 600 individuals, who would not otherwise be able to attend camp because of medical or behavioral issues, come back year after year because of the positive and rewarding experience they had at Camp Allen which is thriving under Mary's leadership. Mary's high energy, strong work ethic and high spirit is contagious to both staff and campers and truly embodies the phrase 'nothing is impossible.' After countless hours of writing grants and organizing fundraising efforts, Camp Allen's facilities and grounds are constantly undergoing safety improvements, upgrades and remodeling. Last summer, through Mary's efforts, a new double residential cabin was opened and more is expected from a woman who takes the 'dis' out of 'able.'
STEPHANIE HURDStephanie Hurd could be described as a visionary. Her friend, Guy, says Stephanie views life better than most people even though she is totally blind. She has a strong work ethic and balances family, her job and community activities with her husband, a 911 dispatcher, who is also blind. Stephanie recently started work on a display of specialized products to be used by children who are visually impaired and will be featured at the Children’s Museum in Dover. She’s also a member of the Portsmouth Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Executive Board of the New Hampshire Association of Volunteer Administrators. She manages about 50 service volunteers for the New Hampshire Association for the Blind providing peer support for people adjusting to vision impairment. Stephanie’s perseverance has allowed her to be fully mainstreamed and she, according to Guy, inspires others on a daily basis.
AMY (ROSS) NORWOODRoss Norwood champions the fight for our four-legged friends. Her rescue organization Canine Commitment, says her friend Robyn, has placed hundreds of dogs and puppies from the south who would otherwise have been euthanized. Ross even moved her family from their home in Bedford to New Boston to be able to provide a better space for those dogs while they are waiting for their ‘forever’ homes. She’s teaching her 2 children, one of whom has a heart condition, about the values of kindness and those in need. Robyn says Ross’ kindness sets the bar high for those around her challenging each and every dog owner to relax, be patient and enjoy life through the eyes of those who most inspire her – children and dogs.
MICHELLE RICCO JONASMichelle Ricco Jonas shines like a diamond that a miner always hopes to find. Her husband, Jude, spoke those words to her when they first met but says it still rings true today. Michelle works with people who have brain injuries and disabilities and assists them in getting back to their jobs. She’s also active in the development of a statewide substance abuse framework and women’s healthcare to ensure low income females have access to affordable care. Michelle’s get-it-done attitude benefits her community where she’s organized monthly community suppers over the last nine years for families with young children and senior citizens. A local teen center that serves nine communities opened after countless hours of hard work by Michelle where she provides classes on alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention. Michelle is devoted to her family as well is the current President of her children’s football and spirit association.
PATRICE DOW
Patrice Dow goes out of her way for others. Especially, says her step-daughter Kellie, when it’s connected to the Concord Hospital. She has co-chaired the premiere fundraising Theme Gala for the last two years and is a member of the decorations committee for the last six years as well as raising money for the Cardiac Unit and the Family Health Centers. Every Christmas you’ll find gorgeously-trimmed trees around the hospital that are auctioned off to provide funds for the Friends of Forgotten Children. If you happen to be walking down the halls of the hospital and hear beautiful singing, you’ll also find Patrice. She joined an ad hoc group from the Community Music School that sings for patients as well as those that are terminally-ill at the Hospice House. Patrice, adds Kelly, brings beauty and kindness to so many that need it.
JESSICA PARADIS
Jessica Paradis faces adversity in her life with perennial optimism. She turns ordinary into outstanding, says her friend Emily. Jessica is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, but she has turned her painful past into activism. She has spent decades helping other survivors and has educated even more people on prevention. Jessica served as Vice President on the Board of Directors of Sexual Assault Support Services, and has volunteered for the agency in every way possible. She has served as an advocate, an educator, as chair for the fundraising and outreach committees and hosted awareness events, like the Strawberry Moon Cruise and The Porch- Light Award, raising tens of thousands of dollars for the agency. Emily adds that even after Jessica was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor and Multiple Sclerosis, she is still just as committed to children's safety. In fact, her adverse health situation has only increased her drive to use every moment effectively in educating others to help keep more kids safe. She currently sits on the City of Somersworth's School Board for SAU 56 and raises her five sons to be the best men they possibly can be, with boundless enthusiasm and a zest for life.
TINA PARE
Tina Pare knows how to pay it forward. What started as a simple idea to help others at the holidays, says her friend Jacqueline, snowballed into a goodwill effort that has crossed state lines. As a single mother years ago, she was once the recipient of some Christmas goodwill and resolved to one day return that gesture. After posting a request to help a family last year, Tina was overwhelmed with over 70 replies. She quickly realized that more and more families were being affected by tough economic times and through social media was able to put together an online yard sale. Many responded to the need and Tina and her family put over 3,000 miles on her vehicle travelling to 3 other New England states to deliver what so many other generous people had donated. Tina is quick to credit others but plans on doing this even bigger and better again this year.
KIM GRAHAM
You can’t fool Kim Graham. You can try, says her colleague Marjorie, but Kim’s seen it, heard it, and lived it. Kim is the Executive Director of the Lynn Shelter Association in Massachusetts but her first time there was as a homeless person. She turned from adversity to being an adversary and also runs a veterans housing initiative, chronic abuse housing initiative and well as providing training on diversity, ethics and team building. She put herself through college, raised three children and provides care for a grandchild. Kim can tell stories that can make an audience roar with laughter or cry like a baby but, says Marjorie, prefers that her words provoke action like volunteering, mentoring a teen, or writing a check. Kim has little time for sentiment but endless hours for lending a helping hand.
