By Jody Record, Media Relations
December 13, 2006

The UNH holiday party takes place today from 3:30-7 p.m. at the Whittemore Center.

Come skate with members of the UNH men’s and women’s hockey teams, have your picture taken with Santa, or go for a horse-drawn wagon ride.

This year’s silent auction, in the Skybox Lounge, features the original painting “Untold Ballad” by Richard Haynes, Jr., one of the most recognizable and esteemed artists working and living in Seacoast New Hampshire.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, this self-described painter, photographer, southerner, Yankee, father, and veteran, paints in a colorful and diverse style reflecting his wide travels and experiences as a truly original American artist.

A senior admissions counselor at UNH, Hayes created the oil/wax crayon-on-paper painting in 2002 as part of his Jazz Series. He recently led 20 students in the completion of a 16-foot mural devoted to the value of diversity.

In addition to Hayes’ painting, the silent auction will offer the chance to bid on a stay at the Balsams Grand Resort in Dixville Notch and the historic Wentworth By-the-Sea in New Castle. Visit the Skybox Lounge and enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres and live music.

Proceeds from the auction benefit the “Durham It’s Where U Live” Scholarship Fund.

Skating takes place on the concourse level where guests will get the chance to meet Wild E. Cat. There will also be an arts and crafts area and a table to make holiday cards for the troops. Hotdogs, nachos, cookies and hot chocolate will be available.

This year’s party has been organized by the Hospitality Management Class 695 under the guidance of professor Joe Durocher and Carl Lindblade in collaboration with the Office of Presidential Events & Programs.