Albany International weaves community outreach into Global Leadership Summit
Company donates food to Gather Food Pantry through team building initiative PORTSMOUTH – Albany International is proud to announce the successful inclusion of a community outreach initiative during its First Annual Global Leadership Summit, held Jan. 27–29, 2026, in Portsmouth. As part of the summit’s commitment to fostering growth both within the company and the broader community, leaders from across Albany International participated in a dynamic team building event on Jan. 28, 2026. The event,
Colliers promotes Abby Bachman to vice president and shareholder, expanding leadership in Seacoast NH
PORTSMOUTH—Colliers, a global leader in commercial real estate services, is pleased to announce that Abby Bachman has been promoted to vice president and shareholder, recognizing her continued leadership, performance, and growing impact across the Seacoast market. Bachman was appointed managing broker of Colliers’ Portsmouth office in 2025 and has since continued to lead and develop the Seacoast brokerage team while strengthening Colliers’ presence in one of New Hampshire’s most active commercial real
Children’s Book Author Donates 50% of Proceeds to Service Dogs NH
Service Dogs NH has great news! This just in 50% of all proceeds of the children's book ILY the Drama Queen Goes the Vet, by author Heather Turner (a N.H. SCORE mentor, speaker, and graphic designer) will go to Service Dogs NH to help provide financial aid for veterinary bills to service dog teams in New Hampshire! ILY the Drama Queen Goes to the Vet is available in paperback or Kindle on the Amazon store. Turner says, “Why am I donating proceeds to this cause? Because Ily, (who is the loudmouthed star
Cornerstone VNA Celebrates 37 Years of Service by Janice Howard and Welcomes Katie Michaud as Community and Life Care Director
Cornerstone VNA proudly recognizes and celebrates the remarkable 37-year career of Janice Howard, Life Care Director, as she retires from the organization, and announces Katie Michaud, MS, OTR/L, as the new Community and Life Care Director, effective January 5, 2026. Janice began her career with Cornerstone VNA in 1988 as a Certified Nursing Assistant with what was then the Rural District VNA in Farmington. Over the years, her dedication, leadership, and compassion for patients led to multiple promotions
4 days, countless stages, 1 epic Seacoast soundtrack: Hear & There hits town
PORTSMOUTH — Get ready for some music! The Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth, in partnership with regional venues and arts organizations, is thrilled to announce Hear & There—a new four-day music experience bringing live performances to stages across Portsmouth andKittery, Maine. The event will take place Thursday, March 5 through Sunday, March 8, 2026, transforming the Seacoast into a walkable winter soundtrack. From intimate listening rooms to lively restaurants and creative community
Players’ Ring brings a bold, couture-infused “Twelfth Night” to Portsmouth
PORTSMOUTH – Shakespeare’s classic comedy of disguise, “Twelfth Night,” will be on stage at the Players’ Ring Theatre, facilitated by Julia Sommer, from Feb. 6 through Feb. 22.This production honors Shakespeare’s language and story while embracing a fast-paced, quick-fire Elizabethan style – reimagined as a bold, visually captivating world where “feast of fools” collides with “haute couture.” When Viola (performed by Amy Desrosiers) washes ashore in the strange land of Illyria – believing her twin brother
Local leaders take the ice Jan. 31 for Strawbery Banke’s 2026 Seacoast Skating with the Stars
PORTSMOUTH– Strawbery Banke Museum announces the return of Seacoast Skating with the Stars (SSWTS), a winter showcase presented in partnership with Ice Dance International (IDI). The event takes place Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond, the Museum’s professionally maintained outdoor skating rink. A weather date is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 1, at 11 a.m. Tickets and additional details are available at StrawberyBanke.org/sswts. A returning favorite at
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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City of Portsmouth, NH Opens 2026 Seasonal Prescott Park Dock Application Period
PORTSMOUTH – City Clerk Kelli Barnaby announced that her office has begun to accept applications for the lottery to assign the 12 seasonal boat slips at Prescott Park for the 2026 season. The deadline for applying is Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 at 4 p.m. For the application package, visit: portsnh.co/prescottparkdocks. This year, 12 boat slips will be made available for seasonal rental. Slips are first awarded to Portsmouth residents using a lottery system. If there are any remaining slips available after the
Devine Millimet is pleased to announce that attorney Joyce M. Hillis has been admitted as a Shareholder of the firm
MANCHESTER– Devine Millimet is pleased to announce that attorney Joyce M. Hillis has been admitted as a Shareholder of the firm, effective Jan. 1, 2026. Joyce has dedicated her career to providing trust and estate planning and administration services for individuals and families of all ages and wealth levels, helping them achieve their personal, financial, and business goals. Her practice focuses on designing and implementing customized wealth succession plans that minimize estate taxes and protect
New Hampshire Theatre Project Presents A Wider Circle on Jan. 21: Film Screening and Community Discussion on Families Navigating Addiction
New Hampshire Theatre Project'sElephant-in-the-Room Series®presents A Wider Circle: Families Navigating Addiction Film Screening Followed by a Community Discussion by Mary Ellen Hedrick In Collaboration with Safe Harbor Discovery Center, Seacoast Mental Health Center and the Greater Portsmouth Recovery Coalition Wednesday, January 21 - 6:00 pm COMMUNITY PANELISTSJason Blackburn, Seacoast Mental Health CenterMark Lefebvre, Greater Portsmouth Recovery CoalitionMariah Smith, Safe Harbor Recovery
Nominees and winners announced for CelebrateHER Awards -- Luncheon to be held Feb. 4
Our CelebrateHER Awards are presented by Service Credit Union in partnership with the Women’s Business League PORTSMOUTH—Following an outpouring of peer nominations and deliberation by the CelebrateHER Committee, the winners have been selected for the Third Annual CelebrateHER Awards Luncheon, presented by Service Credit Union in partnership with the Women’s Business League. CelebrateHER was created to shine a spotlight on women who lead with courage, creativity, and purpose throughout the Seacoast
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Community Power Coalition of NH announces increase in Portsmouth Community Power Rates, effective Feb. 1, 2026
PORTSMOUTH -- The Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire (CPCNH) has advised its member municipalities, including Portsmouth Community Power, that the electricity supply rates for the rate period Feb. 1, 2026 through July 31, 2026 will increase. The new CPCNH Granite Basic default rate for residential and small commercial customers will increase to 14.663 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), from the current 13.419 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), still in effect through Jan. 31, 2026.Rates are based upon CPCNH
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Match fundraiser launched to 'Keep Portsmouth Skating' at Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond
PORTSMOUTH– Strawbery Banke Museum is pleased to announce the 2026 Rink Match Challenge, a matching fundraiser issued by Rink Services Group (RSG), the company that manages Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond. Donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $5,000, from Friday, Jan. 16, through Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, and can be made at the Admissions Desk in the Lawrence J. Yerdon Visitors Center or online at StrawberyBanke.org/rink-match-fundraiser. The fundraiser will help ensure that Community
A community presentation on Jan. 22 on youth mental health with former NH Supreme Court Chief Justice John Broderick and NFL Veteran Paul Frase
Mental Health is no joke. Our kids aren’t either. A Chief Justice and an NFL player walk into an auditorium… to talk about what really matters. January 22, 20266:30–8:00 PMPortsmouth High School Auditorium Join former New Hampshire Supreme Court Chief Justice John Broderick and 11-year NFL veteran Paul Frase for a compelling, straight‑talk discussion about youth mental health and the unique challenges young athletes face on and off the field. Parents, students, and athletes will walk away with a
Veteran-Owned. Operator-Informed. Help Us Get It Right with brief survey
Turn2 Asset Management & Maintenance Planning is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned firm that helps organizations understand what assets they own, how to maintain them, and when to replace them. We take fragmented spreadsheets and tribal knowledge and turn them into clear, auditable asset and maintenance systems. The result is improved readiness, reduced downtime, smoother audits, and continuity when people leave. As we work to launch, we want to ensure our approach is grounded in real-world
3S Artspace opens 2026 Gallery Season with 'Ecorhizome Stories,' ft. works by Ezra Wube
PORTSMOUTH—3S Artspace is pleased to begin its 2026 Gallery season with Ecorhizome Stories, a multimedia exhibition featuring works by artist and filmmaker Ezra Wube, on view from Feb. 6 through March 29, 2026. The exhibition will open with a public reception and opportunity to meet the artist on Friday, Feb. 6, from 5 - 8 p.m. Blending stop-motion animation, painting, collage, video, and sound, Wube’s work moves between mythology, environmental reflection, and everyday life. Ecorhizome Stories brings
NH Art Association holds special exhibition at The Puddle Dock Restaurant -- opening reception Jan. 14
PORTSMOUTH—A new partnership between New Hampshire Art Association (NHAA) and The Puddle Dock Restaurant is bringing local art to one of Portsmouth’s most historic dining spaces. The partnership began when Puddle Dock owner Ryan Lent, a devoted supporter of the arts, approached NHAA Executive Director Amanda Kidd-Kestler with a vision: to bring the work of regional artists into the restaurant’s inviting space, shaped by its historic character on the grounds of Strawbery Banke Museum. Lent’s ongoing
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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
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Devine, Millimet & Brance, P.A. recognized as a 2026 Best Law Firm
MANCHESTER – The 2026 edition of Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” has named Devine Millimet a Tier 1 firm in twelve practice areas in Manchester, a Tier 2 firm in seven practice areas in Manchester and Concord, and a Tier 3 firm in three practice areas in Manchester. Ranked firms, presented in tiers, are listed on a national and/or metropolitan scale. Receiving a tier designation reflects the high level of respect a firm has earned among other leading lawyers and clients in the same communities and the same
Greater Seacoast Community Health Welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Segil as Director of Women’s Health Services
PORTSMOUTH—Greater Seacoast Community Health is pleased to announce that Jeffrey Segil, MD, will soon join the organization as director of Women’s Health Services, a new position at the community health center network. Working at both Families First Health Center in Portsmouthand Goodwin Community Health in Somersworth, he will help to expand access to comprehensive women’s health care across the Seacoast region. Greater Seacoast Community Health has a strong reputation for its quality care for women,
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,
Colliers moves Portsmouth office to new location at 210 Commerce Way
PORTSMOUTH—Colliers, a global leader in commercial real estate services, is pleased to announce the relocation of its Portsmouth office to 210 Commerce Way, Suite 350, Portsmouth, effective Aug. 15. The move positions the Colliers New Hampshire team for continued growth in the Seacoast area. The new location offers modern, Class A space within a dynamic business park setting. Located just minutes from downtown Portsmouth with direct access to I-95 and the Spaulding Turnpike, the new location positions the
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
Seacoast Dermatology welcomes Arthur Marka, MD
SEACOAST NH - Seacoast Dermatology is pleased to announce that Arthur Marka, MD is joining the local medical dermatology practice. He is currently accepting new patients. Marka is focused on providing comprehensive dermatologic care to patients. A strong medical foundation in internal medicine and specialization in dermatology, he’s intent on providing accurate diagnosis and effective treatment strategies for all skin cancers. He’s also proficient at diagnosing and developing management strategies for a
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 to chambermaster.com 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 Center (MIC) In the upper
