Civics 101

Most of us took a required Civics course back in high school. We learned about the three branches of the Federal government, with some discussion about our particular state and our duties as citizens. But that was then.

While the Federal Government structure hasn’t changed all that much, NH has a unique style of state government. Did you know that the five members of our Executive Council have been called “the most powerful state officials after the Governor?” Did you know that all of our state’s elected officials must run for re-election every two years, and that NH is one of only two states with a two-year gubernatorial term? That means that voting in the upcoming mid-term elections is just as important as voting in the Presidential elections, although the turnout is usually much lower.

Join us as we refresh our understanding of how our government works, and how every race impacts our lives. Civics knowledge is the foundation to being an engaged and effective member of our local, state and national communities.

Free and open to all. Registration is required. This event is hybrid: you may choose to attend in person at the library, or online on Zoom. 

About the Presenters

Rich DiPentima loves talking civics! In his 30 years as a Public Health official he has lived it intimately; working in NH State Government, city government, in the military (USAF and the NH Air National Guard), and as an elected NH State Representative. DiPentima’s deep and varied background includes NH Chief of Communicable Disease Epidemiology, chair of the Mayor’s Pease Water contamination committee, and member of the Portsmouth Conservation Commission.

Dante Scala, Professor of Political Science at UNH, is also deeply committed to civics.  Scala is a nationally recognized expert on the New Hampshire Primary, presidential politics, NH politics, political campaigns and debates, and the U.S. presidency.  Scala is regularly interviewed by several news media and has authored many articles and books on the subject of politics.