Choose Rochester Podcast: Recent Episodes
City of Rochester, NH
The Choose Rochester Podcast is a weekly series hosted by Matt Wyatt, Public Information and Community Engagement Manager for the City of Rochester. In each episode, Wyatt interviews guests from a variety of businesses, organizations, and volunteer groups from around Rochester, New Hampshire.
In this episode, Matt interviews Annie Azarloza, Rochester’s upcoming Superintendent of Schools. They discuss her 100-Day Plan, the Listening and Learning Tour, and the significance of public and student engagement. Annie also shares insights on the post-COVID-19 landscape for students, along with her personal interests and experiences relocating to Rochester.
In this episode, Matt talks to Mark Sullivan, Director of Finance for the City of Rochester, about the upcoming retail trash bag program for overflow trash. Expected to begin mid-summer 2024, the new bags will be required for trash that does not fit in the Waste Management-issued residential toters. Replacing the current sticker program, the bags will cost $1.75 each and the City is working with local grocery stores to carry them in packs of 5.
In this episode, Matt welcomes back SHARE Fund chairman Jerry Rainville to discuss implementing new changes to the organization, the shopper's choice program, and the upcoming Putt-4-Hunger event on Saturday, June 1. Visit www.sharefund.org to learn more.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Jody Walker, Technical Services Librarian, about Koha, the new open-source library system that was recently implemented. They also chat about making it easier to obtain a library card, the possibility of going “fine free”, and the ongoing expansion of digital offerings.
In this episode, Matt talks to Chief Nursing Officer Megan Gray about strokes. Listeners will learn about recognizing the warning signs of strokes, the significance of swift action, and how to respond in the event of a stroke.
In this episode, Matt talks to Ellen Carlson from the New Hampshire Fiddle Ensemble about the history of the organization, its diverse membership, and their upcoming show at the Rochester Opera House on May 3, 2024. Ellen also shares her earliest memories of making music and discusses the artists that influenced her most. To learn more about the NH Fiddle Ensemble, visit www.nhfiddleensemble.org.
In this episode, Matt talks to three Spaulding High School Seniors who started the Compassion Closet, an initiative to provide students in need with clothing, socks and underwear, hygiene products, and more. The Compassion Closet is a private space in the High School that allows students to visit anonymously and get the things they need without shame.
In this episode, Matt talks to Bob and Lisa Griffin, members of the Rochester Historical Society and Museum, located on Hanson Street. Bob and Lisa chat about the museum and its collection, upcoming programs, and the Rochester NH History Podcast.
In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Ken Maynard from Frisbie Memorial Hospital about neurosurgery, surgical and technological advancements, and other common surgeries such as fusions and general decompressions. Maynard also talks about how providers are responding to common issues like back pain, neck pain, and much more.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine update listeners on their New Year's resolutions. They also talk about their favorite (and not-so-favorite) romance novels.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Amy Lemelin about the Teen Room at the Rochester Public Library. The Teen Room has experienced major upgrades over the past year or so, including a larger space with new furniture, fresh paint, fun and engaging programming, art from the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, and much more.
In this episode, Matt talks to Michael Scala, Economic Development Director for the City of Rochester, about downtown housing and commercial development.
In this episode, Matt talks to Director of Recreation Lauren Krans about the Lilac Family Fun Festival, Summer Camp, Senior Activity Center, Public Pools, and much more. Visit rec.rochesternh.gov to see a list of upcoming programs and events.
In this episode, Matt talks to licensed social worker and clinical coordinator Ramsey Dean about the Partial Hospitalization Program at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Ramsey is also a native of Rochester and a 2009 Spaulding High School graduate.
Celebrate the New Year with Off The Shelf! In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about the new year, trying new things, annual resolutions, and much more.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about their favorite Christmas movies, whether or not you can read a book before gifting it to someone else, Christmas Carol at the Rochester Opera House, Icelandic holiday traditions, and much more.
In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Christopher Lawson (Frisbie Memorial Hospital) about interventional cardiology, heart disease, and identifiable signs and symptoms worth noting. Dr. Lawson also provides tips and tricks for keeping your heart healthy so you can live a long life.
In this episode, we play the audio from the Mayoral and City Council Candidate Forum that occurred on October 30th. Hosted by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, the forum provided an opportunity for candidates to introduce themselves, discuss their positions on the issues, and answer questions from the public. We encourage you to listen so you can make an informed decision when participating in the Municipal Election. If you haven't already, make a plan to VOTE on November 7th. Visit www.rochesternh.gov/vote to learn more.
In this episode, we play the audio from the School Board Candidate Forum that occurred on October 25th. Hosted by Rochester Listens, the forum provided an opportunity for candidates to introduce themselves, discuss their positions on the issues, and answer questions from the public. We encourage you to listen so you can make an informed decision when participating in the Municipal Election. If you haven't already, make a plan to VOTE on November 7th. Visit www.rochesternh.gov/vote to learn more.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine reunite after a brief hiatus to talk about their favorite books and movies that involve music in one way or another. Does Katherine mention Love Boat again? You'll have to listen to find out.
In this episode, Matt talks to Lisa Gautreau, president of Granite State Choral Society. GSCS is a nonprofit organization that has shared its joy of singing and love of music with friends and neighbors since 1974. Its members come from every walk of life with a wide variety of backgrounds and include experienced singers and musicians to novices who are just discovering the joys of choral singing.
In this episode, Matt talks to Amy Lester, Director of Volunteer Services at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Amy talks about her role, the wide variety of volunteer opportunities available at the hospital, and the impact this kind of volunteerism has on people of all ages and abilities. Amy also talks about what she thinks the community should know about Frisbie and the programs she's managing.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine chat about the success of the Summer Reading programs; the refreshed Teen Room and new programming for teens; the reorganization of books, media, and furniture around the building; and new art from the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts. Have no fear, there's at least one 'Love Boat' reference in the episode.
In this episode, Matt talks to the organizers of the Lila Dance Festival happening on Saturday, August 26 at the Rochester Common. Visit www.liladancefestival.com to learn more.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine chat with Katie Ambrose about her career before becoming Rochester's new City Manager, her background in science, and what she's been reading.
In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Benedetto, Chief of Surgery of the Bariatric Clinic, about surgical and non-surgical weight loss options available to patients at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Dr. Benedetto discusses qualifying for surgery, recovery time, and maintaining long-term weight loss. He also talks about why he enjoys the work he does every day.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jackie Firmin (NH ECI Policy & Advocacy Director and Cora-Lynn Hoppe (Executive Director, Rochester Childcare Center) about regional childcare deserts, long waiting lists to enroll, rising costs, underpaid teachers and providers, and what childcare advocates are doing around the state to address the problems.
In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Khushboo Munot, from Frisbie Memorial Hospital, about gastroenterology and what types of procedures they perform, important things they want patients and future patients to know (ie screenings), what makes Frisbie different from some of the larger hospitals, and what brought Munot to Frisbie.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jackie Fitzpatrick who was recently named Citizen of the Year by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce. Jackie is involved with several charitable initiatives and community groups, including the Rochester Rotary Club and End 68 Hours of Hunger.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine recommend several books, movies, and audiobooks that are more under the radar, most of which are readily available at the Rochester Public Library or through one of the free online services.
In this episode, Matt talks to End 68 Hours of Hunger founder and volunteer Executive Director Claire Bloom. End 68 Hours of Hunger is a public not-for-profit effort to confront the approximately 68 hours of hunger that some school children experience between the free lunch they receive at school on Friday afternoon and the free breakfast they receive at school on Monday morning.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk with outgoing IT Director Sonja Gonzalez about what she likes to read, how she went from being a mechanical engineer to CIO for the City of Rochester, her stint as interim library director, and what's ahead for when she leaves Rochester next week.
In this episode, Matt talks to Deputy City Manager and Finance Director Katie Ambrose about the City Manager's proposed budget, what it means for taxpayers, and how residents can make their voices heard during the budget process.
In this episode, Matt talks to Shanna B. Saunders, Director of Planning and Development for the City of Rochester, Senior Planner Ryan O'Connor, and Tom Morgan, about updating the Natural Resource and Cultural & Historic Resource Chapters of the Master Plan. At this point in the process, public input is imperative. Visit www.rochesternh.gov/planning-development/master-plan-updates to take the surveys and make your voice heard.
In this episode, Matt talks to Director of Rehabilitation Services Melanie Bieniek, at Frisbie Memorial Hospital, about the new Inpatient Acute Rehabilitation Center, the difference between a Skilled Nursing Facility and Acute Rehab, why it's so important for the community, and what inspired her to follow this career path.
In this episode, Matt welcomes Shanna B. Saunders and Ryan O'Connor, from the Rochester Planning & Development Department, to talk about the city's efforts to improve downtown parking. The Parking Review Group, a City Manager's self-directed workgroup, is soliciting public input in the form of an online survey and public listening session on Wednesday, March 22nd (6-8 pm) at the Rochester Performance & Arts Center (RPAC), located at 32 North Main Street.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine are excited to talk about some major changes coming to the Rochester Public Library. Over the next few months, librarians will be moving the collection around, creating additional space for new programming and materials. In addition, new art will be added by the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts.
In this episode, Matt has a conversation with Steve Golson about the Atari art exhibit at the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, which remains on view until March 3. Golson is a game designer who worked for General Computer Corporation in the early 1980s. Throughout the conversation, Golson talks about how he landed a job at Atari after being sued for copyright infringement, his connection to the iconic arcade classic Ms. Pac-Man, and what he thinks of the gaming industry today.
In this episode, Dr. William Morgan talks about relocating to New England, what brought him to Frisbie Memorial Hospital, and why he chose to be a general surgeon. Morgan also talks about technological advancements that have made some procedures less invasive and easier for patients to recover.
In this episode, Director of Economic Development Michael Scala returns to give an update on downtown revitalization, the state-wide housing crisis, and other development projects. He also predicts where Rochester could be in 5 years.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to programming librarian Abby Rosselli about her background, how she fell in love with reading, and what made her want to become a librarian. There is also an impromptu appearance by Economic Development Director Michael Scala.
In this episode, Matt talks to Amy Malone (City Council, Waypoint) and Nicole Rodler (Rochester Police Department) about the Opioid Abatement committee and its efforts to support programs associated with the prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance use disorders.
In this episode, Matt talks to Dr. Michelle Garcia, from Frisbie Memorial Hospital, about why it's important to have a primary care physician, how to find one, and what's happening with Frisbie Memorial Hospital.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about their favorite cookbooks, favorite home recipes, and go-to dinner ideas.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jerry Rainville, chairman of the SHARE Fund, about the organization, its mission, and why it's so important for him to be involved in the community. To learn more about the SHARE Fund, visit www.sharefund.org.
In this episode, Matt talks to Justin Looser (Frisbie Memorial Hospital) about seasonal affective disorder, more commonly known as seasonal depression. Justin talks about why it sets in, how to identify it, and what resources are available to people.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about comfort reads, re-reads, and other book recommendations.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to children's librarian Christina Paquette about her work in and outside the library, and why fostering nurturing and enriching programming in community spaces is so important to her.
In this episode, Matt talks to Kelly Walters, Rochester City Clerk, about how to vote in Rochester. Also, this episode includes the audio version of a recent Candidates Forum hosted by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jeff Bisson, a longtime Rochester Main Street board member. Jeff talks about the upcoming Zombie Bash on 10/29, how downtown Rochester has changed since he started volunteering, and other projects Main Street is working on.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Fire Chief Dennis Dube about what he's reading, what made him want to become a firefighter, and the importance of fire safety and prevention.
In this episode, Matt talks to Ray Negron from Positive Transitions, a sober living home located on Pine Street in Rochester. Positive Transitions offers safe, supportive, and structured housing for men in recovery from substance use disorder through community connection, family living, and all abstinence-based pathways to recovery.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jenry Towle, star of The Great American Trailer Park Musical, at the Rochester Opera House.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about non-traditional reading materials, such as comic books, audiobooks, graphic novels, and more.
In this episode, Matt talks to Tracy Warren about Revival Day of Hope, a community event scheduled for September 10th at the Rochester Common.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Rochester City Manager Blaine Cox about local government, why he entered municipal administration, and what he's reading right now.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jim Graves and Amanda Hall about Sleep In Heavenly Peace, an organization that strives to build beds for children in need. To learn more, visit shpbeds.org.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk to Matt Wyatt about the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts and art in the Library.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about "going down rabbit holes" of books, authors, and other various subjects. One thing leads to another as Marie and Katherine discuss their favorite non-fiction titles.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jenry Towle from the Rochester Opera House about the return of the Summer Theatre series. They also talk about PorchFest, Pack the House, and Summer Theatre Camp.
In this episode, Matt talks to Chris Bowlen who is retiring from the Rochester Recreation & Arena after 30+ years of service. Bowlen discusses his future plans, successes, and his hopes for the department moving forward.
In this episode, Matt talks to Todd Radict, founder of Rochester Rise Up, owner of Skeletone Records, and Rochester Main Street board member. Todd talks about Record Store Day, downtown vibrancy, and partnering with neighboring businesses to draw more people downtown.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about the difficulties of operating a Public Library during the COVID-19 shutdown, amid staffing turnover and changes to the operational structure.
In this episode, Matt talks to Jeanne Grover, founder of Vouchers for Veterans. Her organization is currently preparing the second annual "Field of Honor" display at the Rochester Common. The display features 550 American flags honoring local veterans. Visit www.vouchersforveterans.com for more information.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine talk about movie adaptations of their favorite books.
In this episode, Matt Wyatt talks to the founders and editors of PAPERJAM, an all-new, Rochester-based magazine focused on supporting local music. The magazine is free and available in multiple Rochester locations including Metal Heads, Skeletone Records, City Hall, and more.
In this episode, Matt Wyatt welcomes staff from Cornerstone VNA to chat about advanced directives and Caregiver's Connect.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine speak to Pam Hubbard. Pam is a longtime Library Trustee and [beloved] retired Spaulding High School English teacher.
In this episode, Marie and Katherine chat about librarian stereotypes, audiobooks, and much more!
In this episode, Matt Wyatt welcomes Mayor Paul Callaghan to announce the winners of the "Best of the Lilac City" contest. Congratulations to all the winners!
In this episode, Matt Wyatt talks to Art Jacobs. Art is announcing his departure from the Rec. Dept after over 30 years. Art is moving on to a new career opportunity in York, Maine, and takes the chance to thank everyone in Rochester for their support and friendship over the years.
In this episode, Matt Wyatt speaks to Barbara Barney from Peace of Mind Medicaid Consulting.
In this episode, Matt Wyatt speaks to Erika Lee and Mike Carleton from Cornerstone VNA. Lee and Carleton talk about Cornerstone, its history, wide breadth of services, and what it's like to be a traveling nurse. Visit www.cornerstonevna.org to learn more.
In this episode, Matt Wyatt speaks to Amy Malone from Waypoint. Malone talks about how her organization is opening a new youth center in Rochester, and much more. Visit www.waypointnh.org to learn more.
In this episode, Matt Wyatt speaks to Skip Smith, Executive Director of the SHARE Fund. Smith talks about how his organization provides food, clothing, and other financial services to people in need. Visit www.sharefund.org to learn more.
In this episode, Matt plays a clip from the 12/7 City Council Meeting where Mayor Lauterborn introduces Ed Pacht, the city's new Poet Laureate.
Matt Wyatt talks to Mayor-Elect Paul Callaghan about his recent win and his vision for the future of Rochester.