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
Annual golf tournament to benefit Belknap House open for sponsors
LACONIA — Belknap House will hold its 11th Annual Fundraiser Golf Tournament, taking place on Monday, Sept. 8, at Laconia Country Club. This event is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds supporting safe shelter and essential services for homeless families and children throughout Belknap County. “This tournament is a fun and meaningful way to bring together local businesses and community members in support of our mission,” said President of Belknap House Bill
Cactus Jack’s Announces August Music Performances Free Live Bands Featured on Thursday – Saturday Ev
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. August Live Music Performances at Cactus Jack’s: ● Friday, August 1 – 8-11pm — Mike Lecuyer Duo – Rock, 80’s, 90s, and 2000s ● Saturday, August 2 – 8-11pm — Mugshot – Rock, Pop, Country (Modern to Classic) ●
Concord Hospital - Laconia ICU Nurse Receives DAISY Foundation Award for Nursing Excellence
CONCORD, NH – Abigail Thistlewood, RN of Concord Hospital – Laconia is the recent recipient of the DAISY Foundation Award for extraordinary compassionate care provided by licensed nurses. Abigail was recognized for going above and beyond for a long-term, complex surgical patient in the ICU at Concord Hospital – Laconia. Throughout the patient’s extended stay, Abby patiently and consistently gave reorienting bedside care during episodes of delirium, then further ensured the patient’s emotional and mental
Holy Trinity ready to welcome students this fall
Mayhew Program Thanks Donors for New Pontoon Boats
On Friday, June 20th the Mayhew Program held a christening ceremony to welcome its two new pontoon boats, the Belle and the Cliff to Mayhew Island. The Belle and Cliff are named after the other islands on Newfound Lake. Belle Island is where our Link-Up boys sleep, and Cliff Island is where local youth groups can overnight on Newfound Lake. Mayhew is grateful for The Samuel P. Hunt Foundation, the McIninch Foundation, and the Madelaine G. Von Weber Trust for investing in these boats and our boys! The
Belknap Mill Seeks Art Submissions for Pumpkinfest-Themed October Exhibit
Laconia, NH — The Belknap Mill is excited to announce an open call for artists to participate in a special Pumpkinfest-themed art exhibit this October. This exhibit invites artists to reflect on and celebrate the spirit of Pumpkin Festivals past, as well as the timeless charm of all things pumpkin. From festive street scenes and glowing jack-o’-lanterns to autumn harvests and pumpkin towers, the exhibit will showcase creative interpretations that are spooky, nostalgic, bold, whimsical—and everything in
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
SUMMER ENRICHMENT Lakes Region Community College
Make this summer one to remember with LRCC’s Summer Enrichment Series! With over 25 non-credit classes designed for fun, creativity, and personal growth, there’s something for everyone. Sharpen your skills in a 3-hour Excel refresher, roll into a sushi-making workshop, learn the art of cocktail mixology, or finally explore photography or container gardening. We even offer cooking camps for kids and inspiring sessions like Empowering Educators through Connection and Wellness. Whether you’re looking to try
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
Bank of New Hampshire Champions Local Heritage with Castle in the Clouds Sponsorship
Laconia, New Hampshire – June 16, 2025 – Bank of New Hampshire is proud to continue its support of the historic Castle in the Clouds with a $5,000 corporate sponsorship. Perched in the Ossipee Mountains with sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee, Castle in the Clouds is a treasured landmark, offering a wide variety of public programs. These include a restaurant with live entertainment, an award-winning wedding venue and educational programming that serves local schools. “Our continued partnership with
THE LAKE ESTATE ON WINNISQUAM ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM FOR NEW HAMPSHIRE'S MOST ANTICIPATED LUXURY RESORT & SPA AHEAD OF SUMMER 2025 OPENING
TILTON, NH (June 12, 2025) - The Lake Estate on Winnisquam, currently under development and set to debut as New Hampshire's most anticipated new luxury resort *& spa, is proud to unveil its executive leadership team. The 114-room independent resort, featuring a 5,000-square-foot world-class spa, is slated to open its doors in August 2025 (date TBD) in the heart of New Hampshire's celebrated Lakes Region. Located in Tilton, a charming New England town on the shores of Lake Winnisquam -- New Hampshire's
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
Contigiani’s Catering Celebrates 60 Years of Flavor and Family
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContigiani’s Catering Celebrates 60 Years of Flavor and FamilyLaconia, NH – April 2025 – Contigiani’s Catering Service is turning 60, and with it comes a legacy worth celebrating!It was the Spring of 1965 when Contigiani's Catering was founded in downtown Laconia. Our humble beginnings and family traditions have not been forgotten! For 60 years, Contigiani's has provided our customers with the highest quality food, presentation and service! In our 3rd Generation of Family Business,
Wedding Yoga: Namaste for your Big Day!
Yoga for a serene state of mind Your wedding day is a joyous occasion. You're dreamt of this day, planned, and now it's here. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness leading up to the big day. To help you navigate these emotions and find a sense of calm, incorporating yoga into your pre-wedding routine can be immensely beneficial. Connect to your breath How can yoga help you to embrace a serene state of mind before waling down the aisle? Connect to your breath: It sounds so simple,
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
