New affordable housing units have just been opened to qualified renters in Portsmouth. The 64 one- and two-bedroom apartments are especially aimed at people who work downtown. They are located near the city’s central fire station, and next to the Portsmouth Housing Authority Margeson apartment building. The Housing Authority is also managing this new downtown facility which is named Ruth’s Place honoring Ruth Lewis Griffin. She is a former state senator, executive counselor and member of the Board of Directors at the PHA. Podcast producer Roger Wood speaks with Craig Welch, Executive Director of the Housing Authority.
Ruth Lewis Griffin has served as a New Hampshire State Senator as well as an elected member of the Executive Council representing district 3. She was born in 1925, and moved with her family to Portsmouth from Fall River, Mass. in 1938. She keeps lambs and goats on what is known as Griffin’s Half Acre Farm.
Roger Wood is an award winning radio, podcast, newspaper and television journalist, with over 40 years of experience in the media. Roger has spent his entire professional career in New Hampshire. Roger currently serves as associate publisher and podcast producer at InDepthNH.org. In 2021 and 2022, he was recognized by the New Hampshire Press Association for his work in news podcasts. Prior to that he was honored for his work in broadcast radio news and public affairs. He has produced news and special feature reports for InDepthNH, New Hampshire Public Radio, NPR, and other public and commercial radio stations. He also produced spot news for CBS Radio. He has produced and narrated some 50 audiobooks and has written three novels. Roger has also moderated political forums for Seacoast Area Chambers of Commerce in Senate, gubernatorial and congressional races. He has also facilitated public policy discussions locally and statewide. Roger and his wife Elaine reside in Portsmouth.
Roger Wood Associate publisher Podcast Producer Indepthnh.org rogerwoodnews@gmail.com 603-502-0032 Alternate email: rwood@indepthnh.org