.png){kind=logo}
Nurses at Concord Hospital campuses in Laconia, Franklin first in state to unionize
LACONIA — Nurses at the Laconia and Franklin campuses of Concord Hospital Health System are the first to vote in favor of forming a union at a private hospital in New Hampshire. In a tight vote conducted Thursday morning and afternoon, nurses voted in favor of unionizing. “There was some of what you would typically see in an election,” Gulla said. “There were tactics that they did.” Nurses filed for an election on July 31, after a period of about two months of organizing, whereby nurses signed
State Rep. Charlie St. Clair appointed interim mayor
LACONIA — State Rep. Charlie St. Clair (D-Laconia) is the city’s new mayor. He’ll preside over the next city council meeting, his first in the position, at 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 8, at City Hall downtown, and will serve until a new mayor is popularly elected in November and takes office in January. “I feel fully confident that he can run the council meetings and will do an excellent job,” Mayor Pro tem Mark Haynes (Ward 4) said. The vote was unanimous. “I am humbled,” St. Clair said. “Thank you
N.H. Gov. Kelly Ayotte to Wave Green Flag for First-Ever NASCAR Hauler Parade Through Downtown Concord
New England’s only NASCAR Playoffs weekend is set for Sept. 19-21 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS), and to kick things off in a big way, for the first time ever, the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) haulers will parade through downtown Concord, N.H. Fans are encouraged to line Main Street as the haulers pass through at approximately 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 19. In front of the New Hampshire State Capitol Building, New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte will wave the green flag to officially mark the start of the
NH Broadband, powered by New Hampshire Electric Cooperative, is proud to partner with fiber-optic in
NH Broadband, powered by New Hampshire Electric Cooperative, is proud to partner with fiber-optic internet leader Conexon Connect to offer super-fast and reliable internet. This makes it possible for our community to access the full spectrum of online resources, tools and applications. NH Broadband represents your trusted local cooperative, committed to delivering the quality internet service and support you deserve. Trust your local cooperative to provide you with:The same fast speeds for uploading and
Cactus Jack’s Announces September Music Performances
Laconia, NH – Cactus Jack’s Grill and Watering Hole is pleased to announce the addition of free live music performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening from 8pm until 11pm. Music lovers can look forward to an eclectic mix of sounds as local favorite duos and trios take the stage weekly. September Live Music Performances at Cactus Jack’s: ● Thursday, September 4 – 8-11pm — Eric Grant Trio – 80’s, 90’s, Pop, Country ● Friday, September 5 – 8-11pm — Swipe Right Trio – Pop, Rock, Dance, Modern
Navigate Changes to Tax Legislation with Spead Tax Group
We are writing to inform you about the significant new tax legislation (the Act) signed into law July 4, 2025 (formally known as One Big Beautiful Bill or, informally, the OBBB). The Act includes numerous changes affecting individual taxation. Navigating these changes can be complex, and their impact on your specific tax situation will vary. We encourage you to review this list, which highlights some of the key provisions, and contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss the impact of these changes
Leadership Lakes Region welcomes new board chair and program coordinator
LACONIA — Leadership Lakes Region appointed John Beland as chair of the Board of Directors and Willow Furey as the organization’s new program coordinator. Their combined expertise and deep community roots position them to carry forward the legacy of excellence established by their predecessors, Don Morrissey and Jennifer McLean. Beland brings decades of public service and community leadership to his new role. Recently retiring as the emergency preparedness and response manager for The Partnership for
Bank of New Hampshire donates to help create supportive housing for adults with developmental disabilities
LACONIA — Bank of New Hampshire recently donated $7,500 to The Home Possible Project in support of its flagship community residence for adults with developmental disabilities. This critical initiative will provide safe, stable and affordable housing where residents can thrive while staying connected to their families and the broader community. The Home Possible Project is committed to creating inclusive, compassionate living spaces for adults with developmental disabilities — ensuring they have a place
Holy Trinity ready to welcome students this fall
Longtime NHMS Supporter E.J. Prescott, Inc. Adds Name to NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Playoff Race
New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) today announced that its longest-standing partner, E.J. Prescott, Inc. (Team EJP), will serve as the title sponsor of the Team EJP 175 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) playoff race on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025 and multiple years to come. “My father Peter has been involved with New Hampshire Motor Speedway since the first shovel went into the ground,” said third-generation E.J. Prescott, Inc., President and CEO Steven Prescott. “I am proud to say that since the first
Amplifying Impact: How Small Businesses Can Make Diverse Marketing Matter
At a time when public trust in institutions continues to slide, small businesses have a unique opportunity to do something powerful: champion inclusion through the very way they market. No longer is it enough to post a stock image of diverse faces during a heritage month or offer a discount code with a social message. Customers—especially younger ones—are paying close attention to how a brand behaves behind the scenes. For small business owners, the path forward involves using marketing not just as a
Why These Tech Investments Are Worth It for Small Business Owners
The sticker shock is real. Tech upgrades aren't cheap, and when you're running a small business with thin margins and a to-do list that always wins, it's easy to push those decisions to next quarter or next year. But some technologies are less of a luxury and more of a long-game play. The upfront costs may make you flinch, but the savings and productivity gains over time often speak louder than the initial price tag. Cloud-Based Accounting Software Keeps the Books and the Peace Let’s start with what
Clear Voice, Strong Brand: Why Your Sound Matters More Than You Think
In the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, it’s common for small business owners to serve as the face — and voice — of their brand. Whether you’re filming an Instagram reel to highlight a new product, recording a welcome video for your website, or leading a virtual training, your voice is doing more than delivering information. It’s shaping how people perceive your brand. The tone you use, the pace of your delivery, and the overall sound quality all affect trust, connection, and professionalism. But here’s
A Busy Business Owner’s Guide to Sharper, Smarter Marketing Materials
Running a business is already a full plate, and trying to craft polished, effective marketing materials can feel like stacking dishes on a tower that's already teetering. The truth is, even if you're short on time, there's no reason your branding should feel rushed or half-baked. You don't need to become a graphic designer overnight or spend hours writing copy that feels “just okay.” You need tools, perspective, and a few grounded strategies that respect your time and elevate your materials without the
Laconia celebrates 10 years of Pumpkinfest with new logo
LACONIA — City leaders shared plans for the newly-minted Laconia Pumpkin Festival at a press conference downtown on Tuesday morning. Several dozen city employees, local school children, citizens and members of the media attended the press conference outside City Hall at 10 a.m. Almost 10 years ago to the day, city leaders and representatives of the Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce held a press conference at the downtown train station, announcing their joint efforts to bring the New Hampshire Pumpkin
Beyond the Survey: How to Scale Market Research for a Business That Won’t Sit Still
Change is the one thing your business and your market have in common. What worked last quarter might already feel outdated, and the way customers interact with your brand today could be completely different six months from now. Scaling your market research isn’t just about gathering more data—it’s about making sure that data stays sharp, relevant, and actionable as your business evolves. The old methods of static reports and once-a-year deep dives won’t cut it. You need a research strategy that moves at
Winning Strategies to Boost Your Restaurant’s Success
Scaling a restaurant requires more than just expanding your menu or opening new locations. It demands a strategic approach that combines innovative marketing, data-driven decisions, and community engagement. By focusing on these elements, restaurant owners can create a robust framework for growth that not only attracts new customers but also retains loyal patrons. The key lies in understanding market dynamics, leveraging local partnerships, and enhancing brand visibility through creative means. This
More Than $25,000 Raised for Speedway Children’s Charities, Nearly 700 Pounds of Food Collected for Loudon Food Pantry
One of the driving forces behind the annual Gift of Lights event at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) is the opportunities attendees have to give back to the community. The New Hampshire Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities (SCCNH) and the Loudon Food Pantry each benefitted from the generosity of those who attended Gift of Lights presented by Ambetter from NH Healthy Families during the holiday season. This year, more than $25,000 was raised for SCCNH from event admissions and s’more kit sales.
Tips for Driving Your Business Vision with Bold New Ideas
In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, staying ahead requires more than just ambition; it demands strategic foresight and adaptability. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are uniquely positioned to leverage cutting-edge strategies that can redefine their growth potential. By embracing technological advancements, nurturing authentic relationships, and optimizing financial practices, businesses can not only survive but thrive in competitive markets. These approaches not only streamline
FinCEN’s BOI Deadline for Carroll County, NH Businesses: File by 01/01/2025 to Avoid $500 Daily Penalties!
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) now requires most U.S.-registered businesses to report essential information about their beneficial owners to FinCEN, with deadlines looming for compliance. As of today, November 27, 2024, Carroll County, New Hampshire business owners have 35 calendar days (or 25 business days) left to file their Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report with FinCEN—act quickly to avoid fines of $500 per day! Take These Steps Now:1. Verify if your business needs to
How to Start Moving Your Business Toward Paperless Efficiency
In a world where speed meets sustainability, transitioning your business to a paperless future is not just an option; it’s a savvy and strategic imperative. Imagine walking into an office where piles of paper are replaced with streamlined digital efficiencies, enhancing productivity while championing environmental responsibility. This transformative shift might seem like scaling a daunting mountain, but with strategic planning and the right tools, the ascent can be smooth and rewarding. Discovering the
New England’s Only NASCAR Weekend Moving to September and the Playoffs in 2025
LOUDON, N.H. – NASCAR roars back to Loudon in a big way in 2025 with New England’s only NASCAR weekend moving to the Playoffs Sept. 19-21, and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) joining the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS).The NCS will kick off the Round of 12 while the NCTS drivers will battle it out to remain above the cut line for the Round of 8. “The two questions fans ask me the most are ‘When are we getting a September race back?’ and ‘When are we getting the
