Coastal Inspirations by Catherine Raynes featured at Kennedy Gallery through July
Portsmouth PorchFest Gears Up For 3rd Year Running on Sept. 19
PORTSMOUTH – Porchfest is returning again for the third year running! Join your neighbors and bring your friends on Saturday, Sept. 19, noon through 6 p.m. Portsmouth Porchfest is an entirely FREE, grassroots, volunteer built and driven initiative to bring our community closer together through the power of music, art and shared experiences. Local bands play on local porches and driveways and all genres of music will be played at Porchfest from indie rock to jazz and folk music. There is something for
Greater Seacoast Community Health Receives $10,000 from Bank of New Hampshire
LACONIA– Greater Seacoast Community Health served approximately 14,000 individuals throughout eastern Rockingham and Stratford counties in New Hampshire and York County, Maine in 2025, providing access to healthcare, social services, parenting education and home visiting programs. Bank of New Hampshire is pleased to continue our partnership with this vital community resource through a $10,000 donation as a Partner in Good Health sponsor. "At Bank of New Hampshire, we believe strong communities begin with
Pro Portsmouth Presents Summer in the Street 2026! Needham Bank Steps In To Make the Program Possible
PORTSMOUTH — When the NH State Council on the Arts was defunded in 2025, and the staff released, the loss of grant support meant that Summer in the Street for 2026 was in doubt until a new partner stepped forward: Needham Bank. “Summer in the Street brings people together through music, community and the shared experience of enjoying downtown Portsmouth,” said Jessica Friswell, director of Foundation & Community Relations at Needham Bank. “We are proud to support Pro Portsmouth in keeping this beloved
City of Portsmouth Plans 250th Anniversary Independence Day Fireworks and Laser Show Celebration for July 3, 2026
PORTSMOUTH – As communities across the country commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the City of Portsmouth will mark the occasion with its annual Independence Day celebration on Friday, July 3, 2026, at South Mill Pond, with a rain date of Sunday, July 5. The alcohol-free, family-friendly event is sponsored by Wilcox Industries and will feature a new laser show sponsored by Key Auto Group of Portsmouth in addition to the annual fireworks display.Portsmouth’s deep colonial
RiverWoods Durham Earns Memory Care Seal of Excellence
RiverWoods Durham has been awarded the prestigious Memory Care Seal of Excellence by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP). This distinction recognizes RiverWoods' commitment to providing exceptional dementia care and their dedication to advancing industry standards as part of the Memory Care Excellence Network (MCEN). “We are thrilled to welcome RiverWoods Durham into the Memory Care Excellence Network,” said Patrick Smith, CEO of NCCDP. “They are now recognized as a leader
Lighthouse Credit Union Presents Summer Salute: Celebrating 250 Years of American Music on July 2 - World Premiere Performance by Broadway Entertainer Nat Zegree to Benefit Veterans and Military Families
PORTSMOUTH— Lighthouse Credit Union and its Foundation is proud to present Summer Salute: Celebrating 250 Years of American Music on Thursday, July 2 at 7 p.m. at the historic Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. This special community event will feature acclaimed Broadway entertainer Nat Zegree performing the world premiere of 250 Years of American Music, a captivating musical journey through the songs, artists, and stories that have shaped America over the past two and a half centuries. Summer Salute
LAMPREY HEALTH CARE Events hub expands access to support and resources
Lamprey Health Care Launches Events Hub that Expands Access to Support and ResourcesCreating space for dialogue, learning, and real community impacthttps://lampreyhealth.org/events/Lamprey Health Care has launched a new Events page on its website, creating a centralized hub for community members to access programs, support groups, and health-related educational workshops that bring relevant, timely conversations to the forefront and directly into neighborhoods. The page brings together offerings ranging
Lamprey Celebrates 1-year anniversary speaker series--expands access beyond clinical care
Lamprey Health Care is proud to celebrate the one-year anniversary of its Community MattersSpeaker Series, a free, community-centered initiative designed to bring important health and wellness topics to the forefront while creating safe, welcoming spaces for connection, learning, and dialogue. EVENTS HUB www.lampreyhealth.org/eventsLaunched to support whole-person health founded on connection and belonging, Community Matters has engaged community members across the region through interactive
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Helping Local Businesses Grow: Experienced Banking Leader Erik Mitchell Joins St. Mary’s Bank as Business Development Officer
With more than 13 years in banking and a strong commitment to supporting local businesses, Erik Mitchell joins St. Mary’s Bank as Business Development Officer, bringing insight and hands-on support to help business members grow and navigate what’s next.PORTSMOUTH — Erik Mitchell began his career at Citizens Bank in Hampton, quickly learning how to support members across a wide range of needs. From everyday transactions to more complex financial conversations, he built the adaptability and perspective
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City of Portsmouth NH Announces Parking and Road Closures for NH Outright PRIDE Parade on June 20, 2026
PORTSMOUTH— NH Outright’s Portsmouth PRIDE Parade steps off from Pleasant Street at 12:35 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026. The public is advised that there will be traffic delays in the parade route area as it passes, and motorists are strongly urged to seek alternate routes away from affected streets.The following streets will be closed or have parking restrictions starting at 11 a.m. and lasting until 1 p.m.Pleasant Street – From Market Square to State StreetState Street – From Pleasant Street to
Seacoast Science Center Expands Outdoor Access with New Adaptive All-Terrain Wheelchair
RYE – Seacoast Science Center is enhancing accessibility for individuals of all abilities by introducing a new adaptive all-terrain wheelchair, allowing them to explore the trails, shoreline, and natural landscapes of Odiorne Point State Park. This wheelchair is available free of charge to visitors and members, thanks to a generous grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. The adaptive all-terrain wheelchair, crafted by Extreme Motus, is engineered for outdoor exploration, allowing users to
Players Ring theater announces its Mainstage Season 2026-27
PORTSMOUTH – Searching for entertaining, moving thought-provoking stories of time travel, suspense, humanity, hope and love? The Players Ring announces its Mainstage Season for 2026-27, promising to deliver all of this and more, now in its 35thyear. (See sidebar) The Players Ring is a historic and uniquely intimate 75-seat venue at 105 Marcy Street, right at the edge of beautiful Prescott Park. Donors were invited to an exclusive season preview at the end of May.“Seven years into my role at the
C&J Expands Late-Night Service from Boston with New Logan Airport and South Station Departures Beginning June 25
New Hampshire Seacoast travelers gain greater flexibility for late flights, sporting events, concerts, and evening travel PORTSMOUTH — C&J Bus Lines announces an expansion of its late-night service from Logan International Airport and South Station beginning Thursday, June 25, 2026. The additional service will operate on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, giving travelers throughout New Hampshire and the Seacoast more convenient options after evening events, late-arriving flights, and nights out in
Adobe Firefly: A Plain-Language Guide for Small Businesses
What Is Adobe Firefly? What is Adobe Firefly?Adobe Firefly is a family of creative generative artificial intelligence models designed for content creation. It works by converting text prompts into visual and audio assets through a web browser. The application provides high-quality images, videos, and text effects, and all features out of beta are fully cleared for commercial use. For a professional services firm, such as a regional accounting practice or consulting office based in the Portsmouth area,
Devine Millimet Attorneys Recognized by Thomson Reuters® 2026 Super Lawyers New England
Manchester, NH – Devine Millimet is pleased to announce that 10 of its attorneys have been recognized by Thomson Reuters® Super Lawyers New England for 2026Attorneys Suzanne Brunelle, David P. Eby, Matthew R. Johnson, Anu R. Mullikin, Charles R. Powell, Tom Quarles, Jr., and Christopher A. Swiniarski have earned the prestigious Super Lawyers distinction for 2026.In addition, attorneys Joe Dolciotto, Rich Driscoll, and Andrea Van Iten were recognized as Rising Stars, an honor reserved for outstanding
Free Training & Funding Opportunities for Local Energy Contractors
Free Lunch & Learn: Grow Your Business with TREC Funding & Training Are you an HVAC, electrical, or weatherization contractor looking to expand your business? Lakes Region Community College (LRCC) is hosting a series of free lunch-and-learn sessions across New Hampshire to launch the Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) program. Attendees will gain valuable insights into available workforce training opportunities, grant funding, and how to position their businesses to take advantage of the
Foundation for Seacoast Health Announces 2026 Spring Strategic Grant Cycle Recipients
PORTSMOUTH—The Foundation for Seacoast Health (FFSH) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Spring Strategic Grant Cycle focused on Youth & Young Adult Behavioral Health. Following a record number of applications, the Foundation selected 27 organizations, investing a total of $670,000 in nonprofits supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people across the Seacoast region of New Hampshire and Southern Maine. This year’s strategic grant cycle focused on organizations supporting
Chef Mario LaPosta — owner of Mamma Luca and more — captures the tradition of the Sunday table with Mamma's Sunday Sauce
The acclaimed chef behind da LaPosta and Mamma Luca transforms generations of family recipes into a clean-label jarred sauce inspired by this coveted Sunday ritual PORTSMOUTH –Chef and Owner Mario LaPosta, known for his neighborhood restaurants Mamma Luca in Portsmouth and da LaPosta in Newton, Mass., is bringing his signature approach to Italian cooking beyond the dining room with the launch of his first retail product, Mamma’s Sunday Sauce, now available at both restaurants and soon online. Born
Alien abduction and local history collide in 'Betty & Barney' Exhibition
On the night of Sept. 19, 1961, a Portsmouth couple driving home through New Hampshire’s White Mountains reported something extraordinary: a lit-up craft in the sky, missing time, and an alien abduction. More than six decades later, the story of Betty and Barney Hill continues to captivate believers and skeptics alike. Now on view at the Portsmouth Historical Society, “Betty & Barney” explores the fascinating and multifaceted lives of the Hills– inviting visitors to look beyond the headlines and into the
Small Budget, Real Results: A Digital Marketing Playbook for Seacoast Small Businesses
More than half of all website traffic arrives without a single dollar spent on ads. According to WordStream, organic search drives most web traffic — 53% of it — and 49% of businesses say it delivers better ROI than any paid channel. For small businesses along the Portsmouth Seacoast, where a loyal local following can be the difference between a slow January and a sold-out spring, that's genuinely good news. The catch: organic results don't happen by accident. They come from a plan, and that's where most
Loyal Lab Electric & Generators launches The Rusty Fund to support NH Seacoast dog rescues
Somersworth electrical contractor launches charitable giving initiative supporting local dog rescues through every job completed SOMERSWORTH — Loyal Lab Electric & Generators, a licensed electrical contracting company serving Dover, Portsmouth, and the NH Seacoast, has launched The Rusty Fund, a charitable initiative that donates a portion of every completed job to Pope Memorial Humane Society in Dover. The fund donates $10 from every completed job and $100 from every generator installation directly to
110 Grill New Lighter Fares Menu!
110 Grill is now featuring smaller plates for when you don't want the full thing with our new Lighter Fare Menu. Now available to order, all day every day. See the full menu: https://www.110grill.com/lighter-fare We have also posted about it on social media: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BAtADxF7S/ Handhelds $12 | Served With Old Bay Potato ChipsSignature Burger Sliders Bone Marrow Butter, Pepperjack, Garlic Aioli, Griddled Sweet Potato Bun Turkey Burger Sliders Avocado Mash, Pepperjack, Pico De
Before things go wrong: Building a financial safety net for greater Portsmouth businesses
A financial safety net is the combination of cash reserves, credit access, insurance, and business structure that keeps you operating when something goes wrong — a slow season, an unexpected repair, a lost anchor client. Building it before you need it is the only time it works. Seventy percent of businesses hold fewer than four months of reserves, leaving them dangerously exposed when revenue stalls. For Seacoast businesses that navigate real seasonal swings — summer surges, quiet Januaries, Restaurant
What Data Visualization Really Does for Your Business — and Where to Start
Data visualization — converting raw numbers into charts, graphs, and dashboards — is one of the most underused tools in small business. A BARC Research survey found that 58% of companies base at least half of their regular business decisions on gut feel rather than data; best-in-class firms rely on gut feel far less (40%) compared to laggards (70%). For Portsmouth Seacoast businesses navigating healthcare billing cycles, hospitality demand swings, and technology sector growth, that gap has real
Colliers Announces Retirement of Principal and Shareholder David Choate After 35-Year Career
Colliers, a global leader in commercial real estate services, respectfully announces that David F. Choate, III, Executive Vice President, Principal, and Shareholder, has decided to begin winding down his distinguished 35-year career with the firm. Bob Rohrer, managing director of Colliers in New Hampshire, said, “Over more than three decades with Colliers, David has played a meaningful role in the growth of the firm and in shaping the commercial real estate landscape throughout New Hampshire’s Seacoast
From Chaos to Clarity: Data Governance for Small Business Owners
via Adobe Acrobat Data governance refers to the policies, roles, processes, and standards that ensure a small business manages its data accurately, securely, and responsibly. For small businesses, this means defining who owns data, how it is stored, how it is protected, and how it is used to make decisions across the organization. Data governance is not reserved for large enterprises. In fact, smaller organizations often feel the impact of poor data practices more quickly and more painfully. When
Improving Team Flow: Simple Strategies for More Effective Collaboration
Leaders area organizations face a familiar challenge: how to help teams collaborate more fluidly while keeping pace with shifting expectations, hybrid work patterns, and rapid growth. Collaboration doesn’t improve on its own—leaders shape it through clarity, culture, and the systems people use every day. Learn below about: Practical ways to reduce friction in day-to-day teamwork Methods for improving cross-department alignment A workflow approach for simplifying shared project and document work A
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LiFi Inc. and Life In Focus Announce Strategic Partnership and Creative Leadership Expansion
ROCHESTER / ACCESS Newswire / January 2, 2026 / Founded in Maine with a deep respect for place, light, and authenticity, Life In Focus has built a strong reputation for timeless, true-to-color photography rooted in genuine storytelling. Drawing inspiration from New England's coastal landscapes, the brand is known for capturing meaningful moments with consistency, restraint, and emotional depth. Founded in 2017, Life In Focus was built from the ground up by Nick Eaton, who launched the business at age 23
Scaling Smart: How to Manage Business Growth at Every Stage
Growing your business isn't a one-size-fits-all process. Whether you're launching your first product, onboarding your tenth hire, or preparing for multi-location expansion, managing growth requires tailored strategies at each stage. From infrastructure to hiring and compliance, the right decisions at the right time can mean the difference between sustainable scaling and avoidable setbacks. Below, we outline practical approaches businesses can take to manage growth intelligently—supported by insights,
St. Mary’s Bank Awards Scholarships to Support Future Leaders
MANCHESTER – St. Mary’s Bank is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2025 – 2026 academic year scholarship program. This year, 15 outstanding students, each members, were awarded a total of $22,500 in recognition of their academic achievements, community involvement, and dedication to personal growth. The scholarship program, which has been a cornerstone of St. Mary’s Bank’s community outreach efforts, aims to alleviate the financial burden of higher education for its members remarks. “By investing
Chasing the Calendar: Seasonal Promotions Done Right for Small Businesses
Tapping into the rhythm of the calendar has long been a cornerstone of retail success. But for smaller operations, where every marketing dollar needs to count, seasonal promotions can either be a strategic coup or a time-sucking flop. Making the most of these opportunities requires more than slapping red and green on a homepage come December. It calls for timing, creativity, and a genuine understanding of how customers behave when the seasons shift. With a little planning and a lot of authenticity,
Shields Up: Guarding Intellectual Property in the Age of Screens
The modern marketplace rewards ideas as much as—or more than—products. Whether it’s a brand concept, an algorithm, a slogan, or a signature design, intellectual property is the lifeblood of many businesses operating in a digital-first world. But when everything is online, exposure becomes vulnerability. A casual click can result in a logo being duplicated, a trade secret stolen, or an entire product line cloned. This is where strategy matters, and protection isn’t just about lawyers and paperwork
The Art of Earning Loyalty: Small Business Strategies That Actually Work
In an age of over-automated interactions and digital detachment, small businesses still hold one distinct advantage: they can make people feel seen. That emotional edge matters more than ever. Customer engagement isn't about flooding inboxes or offering the biggest discounts—it's about building relationships that outlast the transaction. The most effective small business strategies are the ones that create meaningful, memorable touchpoints in a world full of noise. Start with Listening, Not SellingToo
The Digital Toolbox: Essential Tech for Running a Modern Contracting Business
If you're a general contractor, you know the grind. Managing crews, juggling clients, keeping track of materials—it’s a lot. And if you’re still relying on paper invoices, endless email chains, or, God forbid, a whiteboard in the office, you’re making your life harder than it needs to be. The right tech won’t just streamline operations; it’ll save you time, cut costs, and keep your business competitive in an industry where efficiency is king. While there are plenty of software solutions out there, let’s
Supercharge Your Strategy Using Data Intelligence
In the contemporary business landscape, data analytics has emerged as a cornerstone for strategic decision-making. The ability to interpret and apply data insights can significantly enhance operational efficiency and market responsiveness. Businesses that integrate data analytics into their core processes can better anticipate market trends, optimize resource allocation, and refine customer engagement strategies. This article delves into the multifaceted applications of data analytics, illustrating how it
Planning for Growth: Crucial Steps for Small Business Expansion
Choosing to expand your business is a pivotal moment that holds the promise of new opportunities and growth. However, this exciting venture also demands meticulous planning and strategic foresight. Every step you take can significantly impact the success of your expansion efforts. In this article, we’ll explore the crucial factors that will help you pave a smooth path toward successful business growth. Let’s delve into the essential considerations that will empower you to expand with confidence and
Your Guide to Success: How to Assemble an Impressive Job Application Package
In today’s highly competitive job market, making a lasting first impression can be the difference between landing your dream job and being overlooked. Crafting the perfect job application package—complete with a captivating cover letter, an eye-catching resume, and a compelling portfolio—is your ticket to standing out. But what exactly does it take to create an application that not only grabs attention but also showcases your qualifications in the best light? Join us on this journey as we explore the
Chamber holds great annual meeting in an ‘Amazing’ setting
We kick off summer with Annual Membership meeting on the Rep set of ‘Joseph’ PORTSMOUTH--The Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth held its annual meeting in the theatrical setting of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at Seacoast Repertory Theatre on June 20—but the program was down to business. President and Chief Collaborator Ben VanCamp spoke of the Chamber’s accomplishments of the past fiscal year and goals for year ahead. The Chamber has stressed, and will expand upon
Farewell to our friend Tom, a great man and restaurateur
ABOVE: Tom Perron at the March 11, 2020 Restaurant Week Summit. The photograph is taken from the upper floor of his restaurant, Mombo, where he said the photographer would have a much better vantage point. BELOW: Tom shared his love of the kitchen with the Portsmouth High School Career Technical Education students, pictured here Tom was leading CTE students in making a dessert as he volunteered in December at the Career Pathways program.Farewell to our friend Tom, a great man and restaurateur Thoughtful
EASY PEASY: How to Submit a News Release to the Chamber Collaborative Website
Submitting a news release to the Chamber Collaborative website is quick and simple! Just follow these step-by-step instructions:&##128421; Step 1: Log In to ChamberMaster Go tohttps://secure2.chambermaster.com/login?utm_ Click "Login" (right) Choose "ChamberMaster Login" (left) and sign into your account &##128161; Need help logging in or resetting your password? Email Jennifer at Jennifer @PortsmouthCollaborative.org. She’ll send you a reset prompt.&##128204; Step 2: Access the Member Information
