🌱 New Role For Fisher Cats VP + 'Art After Work' + Variant Cases Rise

Good morning, Manchester! Let's catch up on what's happening locally to start today off on an informed note.

First, today's weather:

A beautiful day with plenty of sun today. High: 72 Low: 48.

Here are the top stories in Manchester today:

1. A shout out to Erik Lesniak who will become the new business liaison for the City of Manchester’s Economic Development Department. The former Fisher Cats vice president of business development will join new Economic Development Director Jodie Nazaka. Lesniak worked for the Fisher Cats franchise in Connecticut and stayed with the team in Manchester. Nazaka said her new VP's personal connections with many local business owners makes him "a perfect fit" for his new role. (Manchester Ink Link)
2. Discover "Art After Work" at the Currier Museum of Art. Enjoy free live music performances in the Winter Garden on Thursday nights from 5 to 8 p.m., with happy hour drink specials and a full menu. Also enjoy the museum's new program, The Art of Awareness, where strangers from all different backgrounds gather "and become friends of thought" through the power of art. One work of art based on a theme is chosen as the focus each week. Museum members receive a 10 percent discount on food and beverages with a valid membership card (cocktails and tax excluded). You can find out more here: (The Currier Museum)
3. COVID-19 cases are on the rise in New Hampshire, health officials say. The state is averaging more than 500 new cases a day, the highest number since February. But the number of hospital patients with COVID-19 is lower. State epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said testing early and catching infections early to control the spread of the virus is still key. Dr. Jose Mercado, COVID-19 response leader for Dartmouth Health, said, "stopping transmissions" of COVID-19 will stop more variants from coming out. Doctors agree that the current surge "likely will be less severe," but are hoping people will take it seriously. (WMUR)

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Today in Manchester:

• Nurse's Appreciation Day! — Manchester School of Technology. (All Day)
• 38th Annual NHBCA Arts Awards Gala — Greater Manchester Chamber. (4:30 p.m.)
• Middle School Admission Open House — Greater Manchester Chamber. (6 p.m.)
• PYT: "Snow White" — The Rex Theatre. (7 p.m.)

Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll see you in your inbox tomorrow with another update!

— Paula Constance

About me: I am a freelance writer, author, and media producer. I am committed to media projects that empower, engage, and help make the world a better place.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Manchester Daily? Contact me at manchester-nh@patch.com