Artist, creative placemaker, and Tree Streets resident Kori Thomas, known as Artist “Quest Nine” believes the neighborhood's story deserves to be told differently.

After spending years creating murals across New England and internationally, Kori began to see public art as more than a finished painting. She saw it as a way to bring people together, support local businesses, create opportunities for artists, and inspire communities to reconnect with the places they call home. Rather than waiting for someone else to invest in that vision, she decided to invest in it herself.

ArtCity was founded on the belief that artists can play an active role in shaping their communities while creating meaningful opportunities for other creatives. What began as a grassroots mural festival has grown into a community placemaking initiative that brings together artists, residents, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, musicians, and civic leaders to activate public spaces through art and culture.

On Saturday, August 29, that vision comes to life in the Tree Streets.

From 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Heritage Rail Trail from Elm Street to Ash Street will become a walkable celebration of creativity and community. Throughout the day, more than 20 muralists will paint 15 permanent murals, transforming blank walls into vibrant public art that will remain long after the festival ends. Visitors will experience two live music stages, local musicians, creative vendors, neighborhood businesses, food trucks, free art classes, dance cyphers, a community salsa hour, interactive art experiences, and an indoor gallery exhibition at 809 Lounge, all designed to showcase the incredible talent and culture that already exists within Nashua.

For Kori, the murals are only one piece of the project.

The real goal is to change the way people experience the neighborhoods impacted by a project like this. Public art invites people to slow down. It encourages them to walk instead of driving through, stop inside a neighborhood business, meet an artist, strike up a conversation with a neighbor, and spend time in a place they may have otherwise overlooked.

The festival also creates meaningful opportunities for artists. Established muralists paint alongside emerging creatives, providing paid work, mentorship, professional connections, and visibility. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, vendors reach new audiences, and residents gain permanent works of art that continue to strengthen the identity of the neighborhood for years to come.

This project has been built through determination, collaboration, and even personal investment. As an independent artist, Kori has invested countless hours and significant personal resources into bringing ArtCity to life because she believes every neighborhood, especially hers, deserves access to inspiring public spaces, cultural experiences, and creative investment. That vision has brought together an incredible network of artists, volunteers, businesses, sponsors, community organizations, and the City of Nashua, all working toward a shared goal.

ArtCity is not arriving to redefine the Tree Streets. The neighborhood already has a rich history, remarkable cultural diversity, and people who have been investing in their community long before this event. ArtCity exists to celebrate those strengths, amplify the voices of the people who live and work there, and help create the conditions for the neighborhood to imagine and shape its own future.

For Quest Nine, ArtCity is more than a festival. It is a way to plant seeds of inspiration for her community, she believes that art can help people see themselves, and be seen by others, in a new light.

Incident #1
First Unit on Scene: E6
Incident Location: 11 Ledgewood Hills Drive
Number of NFR Engines in response: 2
Number of NFR Ladder trucks in response: 1
Other NFR apparatus in response: C4, EMS 1, K2, K4
Number of NFR personnel in response: 16
AMR Units: ALS 11

General Incident Description:

At approximately 3:56 pm on August 17, 2026, the Nashua Fire Rescue dispatch center received a call reporting an appliance fire at the listed address. The caller reported a clothes dryer with black smoke coming from the unit.

Engine 6 was the first engine on scene, with no obvious conditions showing from a middle-unit three-story townhouse. The Engine officer established command. Engine 6 crew stretched a 1 ¾” hose line to the front door. and upon entering, the company was met with a heavy smoke condition. As the crew got to the second-floor with the hose line, visibility was zero and a significant heat condition was present. Utilizing the Thermal Imaging Camera, the officer of Engine 6 was able to locate the fire and direct its extinguishment. Engine 2 arrived and immediately provided water supply to Engine 6. The crew also stretched a backup line to the front door in preparation for additional extinguishment needs. L2 positioned in front of the building and laddered the roof with the aerial device for the possibility of vertical ventilation. The crew also positioned ground ladders in the front and rear of the building. L2 conducted searches on the second and first floor.

The fire was quickly brought under control and salvage operations were conducted to protect as many contents as possible. One occupant was home at the time of the fire, and safely evacuated.

The fire is currently under investigation by the Nashua Fire Marshal’s office.

Mutual Aid to Scene: No
Mutual Aid Coverage/Stations: No
Smoke Detectors Present? Yes
Smoke Detectors Working? Yes
Sprinkler System Present? No
Sprinkler System Function? No
Injuries: None

PSA: Make sure to clean and maintain appliances according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Incident #2
First Unit on Scene: L3
Incident Location: 11 Newcastle Drive
Number of NFR Engines in response: 4
Number of NFR Ladder trucks in response: 2
Other NFR apparatus in response: C4, EMS 1, K2, K4, R2
Number of NFR personnel in response: 29
AMR Units: ALS 10

General Incident Description:

At approximately 5:47 pm on August 17, 2026, the Nashua Fire Rescue dispatch center received a call reporting smoke from the building at 11 Newcastle Drive.

Ladder 3 was the first truck on scene, in the rear, with light smoke showing from the roof vents and soffits of a 3-story garden style apartment building. Command was established by Ladder 3. Engine 3 stretched a 1 ¾” hose line to the front door of the building awaiting the location of the fire. E2 Provided water supply to Engine 3 from a nearby hydrant. L2 positioned in the front of the building as coordinated with command. E4 positioned itself to supply water to the rear of the building if necessary. E1 arrived as the RIT company.

All crews were working to locate the fire as access to apartments was a challenge. Ladder 3 located the fire apartment and directed the hose lines to the third floor. The fire was located in the ceiling of a third-floor apartment. The fire was knocked down and crews worked to ensure there was no further extension. There was a significant smoke condition and subsequent water damage to the fire apartment, as well as, the apartments below.

The fire was brought under control and companies again worked to protect the contents of the apartments effected by the water damage.

Several occupants were in the building at the time of the fire and all safely evacuated. Four apartments were damaged as a result of the fire and several occupants were forced to find another place to stay.

The fire is currently under investigation by the Nashua Fire Marshal’s office.

Mutual Aid to Scene: No
Mutual Aid Coverage/Stations: No
Smoke Detectors Present? Yes
Smoke Detectors Working? Yes
Sprinkler System Present? No
Sprinkler System Function? No
Injuries: None

PSA: When alarms sound in the building, it is important to leave the premises as soon as possible.

Governor Ayotte signed several bipartisan laws to protect victims of domestic and sexual violence, combat crimes like human trafficking, and ensure timely restitution payments to victims, including:

• HB 1469: Requires certain massage establishments to be licensed and subject to state oversight, giving regulators and law enforcement another tool to identify illegal activity, including human trafficking.
• HB 1576: Strengthens the process for collecting court-ordered restitution and requires victims to be notified about changes or interruptions in their payments.
• HB 1651: Gives survivors of sexual assault a new civil protection option through a sexual assault protective order, while strengthening their rights to information about and preservation of their sexual assault evidence kits.

“Every survivor deserves to know that New Hampshire stands with them and that our laws are there to protect them when they need help most,” said Governor Ayotte. “These new laws build on the progress we made last year by closing gaps in protections for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, strengthening support for crime victims, and helping to prevent and stop human trafficking. I’m grateful to the survivors, victim advocates, law enforcement, and legislators from both sides of the aisle who have worked tirelessly to strengthen our laws and make New Hampshire even safer.”

“Every new law addressing domestic and sexual violence is born out of a survivor sharing their story and legislators, advocates, and leaders like Governor Ayotte coming together to find a solution to gaps in our system,” said Rep. Jennifer Rhodes of Winchester. “I want to thank the Governor and everyone involved in this bipartisan effort to strengthen protections for survivors in New Hampshire. To all of the survivors who have yet to come forward, my message is clear: you are seen, you are heard, and you are not alone. Let today be the day that you share your story and know that New Hampshire stands with you.”

“The work that crisis center advocates in New Hampshire do every day to provide life-saving services for victims would not be possible without the dedication of Governor Ayotte and the legislature to address domestic and sexual violence in our state,” said Shauna Foster, Executive Director at New Beginnings – Without Violence and Abuse. “Survivors deserve to feel safe in their communities, and an important part of that is advancing policies that enhance access to justice and improve victims' rights, like the new laws we are celebrating today.”

“New Hampshire has a long tradition of leading the nation in passing strong, meaningful laws that support victims, hold offenders accountable, and strengthen public safety,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs at the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. “The legislation signed into law this year will make a meaningful difference in the lives of victims and survivors and help make New Hampshire safer for everyone. We are incredibly grateful to Governor Ayotte for her leadership, her longstanding commitment to victims, and her continued partnership in this important work.”

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available through the statewide helpline at 1-866-644-3574. Calls are confidential, and advocates are available to listen and support. You are not alone

WHO + WHAT: The 73^rd Greeley Park Art Show hosted by the Nashua Area Artists Association, free and open to the public, parking available

WHERE: Greeley Park, 100 Concord St., Nashua, N.H.

WHEN: Aug. 29 + 30, 2025, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day

 Wander, browse and soak it all in during this lively two-day long art show where fresh work, creative energy, and plenty of beautiful surprises await you around every turn!

The Nashua Area Artists Association will be holding its 73^rd annual Greeley Park Art Show, a two-day outdoor juried art show, on Aug. 29 and 30, 2025 that will bring the beloved, beautiful and historic Greeley Park in Nashua N.H. to life!

The show is open to artists 18 and older working in two- and three-dimensional media. There will be more than 56 artists on hand, from painters and photographers to woodworkers, showing their work and holding demonstrations, from around the region. New this year are more local live musicians and music students performing on both days.

Art awards will be given in several categories: 3D, acrylic, drawing/illustration, mixed media, oil, pastel, photography, watercolor, digital art, in addition to Best in Show (the winner will have work placed on view at ArtHub, the NAAA gallery, with an artist’s reception) and Viewer's Choice. Prizes - monetary and non-monetary for the adults and the children’s art contest is judged by age with great prizes.

Each year, visitors enjoy seeing their favorite artists they’re familiar with and seeing their new work, while also discovering new artists. The artists and visitors come mostly from New Hampshire and Massachusetts.  Attendance varies depending on the weather, sometimes the event draws thousands of visitors! The GPAS started out first with artists hanging their work outside on a picket fence. Now artists set up their 10'x10' tents, each its own unique “microgallery.”

The art show gives artists a chance to see what everyone is working on, get inspired, and connect with visiting art-lovers. It’s a great chance to meet local working artists and buy real, local, hand-made art.

And the show is a whole lot of fun! Show co-organizer Vicky Tkaczevski said, "An outdoor art fair is a lot of fun, a chance to enjoy the summer weather and see real live artists that still make things by hand.  We have 56 artists signed up to display their work, including painters, woodworkers, photographers, and more. Several musicians will perform. Artists will be doing live demonstrations. This year we have received many donations from area businesses and artists for our ever-popular raffles, the art competition for adults promises to be a great show on Saturday, and we expect many entrants into the kids' competition on Sunday. There will be games and art-related activities for kids. Thanks to the Nashua Arts Commission for their generous grant toward this event."

Art can bring people together and create special experiences and moments. Tkaczevski recalled a wonderful moment from last year’s show. “Surprising things happen at these art shows. You meet the people you made your art for. Last year I exhibited a painting of giraffes on the Serengeti. While I was doing it, I strongly felt like there ought to be the Taj Mahal in the clouds, just subtly, but floating there. So I painted it. A young lady came to my booth and she was drawn right to that painting. ‘Do you like giraffes?’ I asked. ‘I love giraffes’, she said, ‘and my nickname is Taj Mahal.’” Perfect!

In addition to the artists and their works, some of whom will also be working on pieces and demonstrating what they do during the show, there are many other activities planned, including but not limited to: 

- Live music throughout the weekend by local musicians and music students – NEWLY expanded this year

- A marionette show for kids

- Lawn games and activities for kids this year including rock painting, artmaking, story hour, corn hole, giant Jenga, a life size Connect Four game, and more!

- Raffles – an eclectic mix of art, artifacts, and gift certificates from generous area donors

- Artist demonstrations all weekend

- On Saturday, adult art awards will be announced. On Sunday, NAAA will award scholarships to high school students who intend to pursue degrees in art. Student art awards will also be announced on Sunday

The schedule for both days is as follows:

Sat., August 29

10 AM - 1 PM: Cliff Conti, ambient healing music performance

1 PM: Teresa Moler’s marionette show

2 PM: Adult Art competition winners will be announced (judging begins at 12 p.m.)

3 - 4 PM: Electriksoul musical performance

Sun., August 30

11 AM: Matt and Melissa musical performance

12 PM: Students from Let's Play Music school will perform

1 PM: Teresa Moler’s marionette show

2 PM: Raffle winners and artwork winners will be announced

3 PM: Kids' art competition winners and the two scholarship winners will be announced (judging begins at 12)

The Nashua Arts Commission has provided NAAA with a generous grant to fund the show, recognizing how important it is to artists and the community. Many local organizations and businesses, including artists, have very generously sponsored the event and donated many wonderful items for the raffles, prizes and more. A comprehensive list is available upon request.

ABOUT THE NAAA:

Since 1951, the NAAA has been an all-volunteer, non-profit, educational organization whose goal is the advancement of art in Nashua and its surrounding communities. Our membership is comprised of visual artists working in a variety of media as well as patrons of the arts. The NAAA welcomes members and non-members at any level of experience from students to established artists. Our goal to foster the advancement of art is met through our EAST (Emerging Artist Student Talent) shows and scholarship program. The ArtHub Gallery, at 98 Main Street in downtown Nashua, opened in May 2025 in this space and provides exhibit opportunities for local artists and the community benefits from a variety of art classes, demonstrations, workshops and interaction with other artists – many are free to attend and participate. ArtHub is also open to organizations and groups of all kinds who want or need  a place to meet that is inspiring and conveniently located.

The annual Greeley Park Art Show, since 1953, now in its 73^rd year, showcases artists from the NE region and is held in August. NAAA always welcomes new members, volunteers and donations.

For more information:

https://www.nashuaarts.org

NAAA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NashuaAreaArtistsAssociation

NAAA Artists and Friends: https://www.facebook.com/groups/518248144259824

The new Education Building is the centerpiece of Phase I of Beaver Brook’s Transforming Beaver Brook capital campaign and represents the completion of the largest fundraising effort in the organization’s history. Beaver Brook raised $4.1 million from donors, board members, local businesses, volunteers, and community members to fully fund the project.

The new facility expands Beaver Brook’s ability to offer year-round programming and education in a fully accessible building. It provides the space needed to support the organization’s growing programs and better serve the community for generations to come.

“This is a really significant moment for Beaver Brook, and it would not have been possible without the incredible support of our community,” said Lindsay Jones, Executive Director of Beaver Brook Association. “For decades, Beaver Brook has invested in protecting land, caring for our trails, and creating meaningful opportunities for people to connect with nature. This is the first major investment we have made in our buildings and facilities, and it represents an important step forward for the organization. We are incredibly grateful to the donors, board members, volunteers, businesses, and community members who believed in this project and helped us reach our $4.1 million goal. This building gives us a place that reflects the quality of the work happening at Beaver Brook and provides the space, accessibility, and infrastructure we need to serve our community for generations to come.”

The grand opening celebration will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1. The celebration will bring together donors, board members, volunteers, project supporters, local community leaders, members of the Souhegan Valley Chamber of Commerce, and others who helped make the project possible.

The evening will begin with light refreshments and an opportunity for guests to gather. Opening remarks and the official ribbon cutting will take place at 5:30 p.m., followed by guided tours of the new Education Building.

Members of the press are invited to attend the grand opening, cover the ribbon-cutting ceremony, tour the new facility, and learn more about the project’s impact and Beaver Brook’s future plans. Media representatives interested in attending or arranging an interview with Beaver Brook leadership are encouraged to contact Debbie Johnson, Director of Development at djoshnson@bbanature.org or 603-465-9521 in advance.

The completion of Phase I represents an important milestone in Beaver Brook’s Transforming Beaver Brook campaign. With the new Education Building now open, Beaver Brook looks forward to building on this investment and continuing its mission of conservation, education, and connecting people with the natural world.

About Beaver Brook Association

Beaver Brook Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to land conservation, environmental education, and community engagement. By stewarding 2,200 acres of conservation land, 35 miles of trails and offering year-round programs for children and adults, Beaver Brook provides opportunities for people of all ages to explore, learn, and engage with the natural world. For more information, visit our website at beaverbrook.org.

Monday, August 17, 2026

Human Affairs Committee Meets at 7:00 PM EDT in Aldermanic Chambers (City Hall,2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

BOE Finance & Operations Committee Meets at 6:00 PM EDT NHS North Board Room (8 Titan Way)

 Tuesday, August 18, 2026 

Mayor's Opioid Taskforce Meets at 9:30 AM EDT in Auditorium (City Hall,3rd Floor, 229 Main Street)

Planning and Economic Development Committee Meets at 7:00 PM EDT in Aldermanic Chambers (City Hall,2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

BOE Policy Committee Meets at 6:00 PM EDT NHS North Board Room (8 Titan Way)

 Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Finance Committee Meets at 7:00 PM EDT in Aldermanic Chambers (City Hall,2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

 Thursday, August 20, 2026

Board of Assessors Meeting Meets at 9:00 AM EDT in Auditorium (City Hall,3rd Floor, 229 Main Street)

Ambulance Advisory Committee Meeting Meets at 3:00 PM EDT Nashua Fire-Rescue, (177 Lake Street)

Environment and Energy Committee Meets at 6:00 PM EDT Room 208 (City Hall,2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

 Friday, August 21, 2026

Nashua Housing and Redevelopment Authority Meets at 8:30 AM EDT at 40 East Pearl Street

If you'd like to review the agendas, minutes, or check for any last-minute schedule changes, let me know if you want details for a specific board, or visit the Nashua Public Hearings Directory and City of Nashua Agendas Portal to see the full list of postings.

Board of Education meetings schedule can be found here.  

Official Live Streams (Web Browsers)

You can watch gavel-to-gavel live streams of city operations directly through the CTV Live Streams Portal on the City of Nashua Website:

• Board of Aldermen & Infrastructure Committees: Watch on the Government TV 16 Live Stream.
• School Board & Education Committees: Watch on the Nashua ETV Live Stream.

YouTube Channels (Live & Archived Recordings)

If you miss a live broadcast, the city categorizes and uploads meeting archives onto dedicated YouTube channels:

• Board of Aldermen & City Subcommittees: Available on the Nashua BOA Meetings YouTube Channel.
• Board of Education & School Committees: Available on the Nashua BOE Meetings YouTube Channel.
• General Educational & Community Programming: Available on the Nashua ETV YouTube Channel and Nashua Public Television Channel 6.

There are only a few shows left in our Summer Music @ the Riverwalk series, with Sunset Electric as our last show on the 29th. This Saturday, we hope you can make it out to see Sonic Avionics at 7:30pm at Renaissance Park. These free summer evening concerts are the result of a collaboration between Downtown Nashua Association and the Nashua Arts Commission. Sonic Avionics is a funk/soul/groove band bringing smooth mellow sounds perfect for a warm summer evening on the river.

We’ll have fantastic vendors for you to shop at the Nashua Farmers Market on Sunday from 10am to 1pm, also at Renaissance Park. Here too you’ll be treated to live music from Rockin’ Ed Thomas and Moosi Music. 

Take a look below at some of the other fun things going on this week!

Stay groovy and I’ll see ya Downtown!
Elaina Bedio, Downtown Nashua Association 

𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟑

5:00PM: Pokémon League Night at Grave Troll Games

5:00PM: Buck-a-Shuck Oysters at The Pearl at Stella Blu

5:30PM: Caylin Costella at Union Public House

7:00PM: Buzztime Trivia at Odd Fellows Brewing Co

7:30PM: Open Mic Night at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

7:30PM: Trivia Night at Liquid Therapy

𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟒

12:30PM: Fryday: Fried specials all day at Soel Sistas Cafe-Catering & Food Truck

3:00PM: Free Drop-in Painting class at ArtHub - Downtown Gallery, Nashua Area Artists Association

7:30PM: Chris Cavanaugh at Union Public House

9:30PM: Karoake Dance Party at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟓

7:30PM: Jamie Hughes at Union Public House

𝟕:𝟑𝟎𝐏𝐌: 𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤

8:00PM: Jenni Lynn Duo at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

9:30PM: No More Blue Tomorrows at The Peddler's Daughter - Nashua

𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟔

𝟏𝟎:𝟎𝟎𝐀𝐌: 𝐍𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐚 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭

3:00PM: The Incidentals at Stella Blu (patio)

6:00PM: Sunday Evening Karaoke at The Spot

7:00PM: Bo Deans at Nashua Center for the Arts

𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟕

8:00PM: Tipsy Bingo at The Peddler's Daughter

𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟖

7:00PM: Trivia at The Peddler's Daughter

8:00PM: Music Bingo at Nashua Fody's Tavern

8:00PM: Tacos & Tequila Tuesday at Stella Blu

𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟖/𝟏𝟗

1:30PM: Ice Cream Social + Karaoke at Nashua Senior Activity Center

5:30PM: SJ Martin at Union Public House

7:00PM: Free Movie Night at The Spot

8:00PM: Trivia at Fody's Tavern

I have finally plucked and am in the process of drying my shallots. I’m harvesting okra only a small amount at a time. When this happens, I chop and process them so I can freeze it. Gotta have enough for gumbo! I want my tomatillos to hurry up, but something is starting to nibble on their papery shells–I suspect beetles, but I’m not too worried at this point. Another mystery pest has taken large chomps out of some tomatoes! It’s what I get for not putting up our temporary fencing this year. Physical barriers are really a fantastic tool–and putting them up before any critters realize there’s good eating works amazingly well in my experience (I’m lookin’ at you, groundhogs and deer!).

My blueberries are still coming and are so sweet! I can’t help but eat some straight from the branch. Can you tell Blueberries for Sal was a favorite childhood book? Honestly, what can be better than walking by and plucking a veggie or berry for a drive-by snack?

On my to-do list this week is my dreaded chore: lawn care prep. Good thing I will be fortified with blueberries for this task. As much as we might not want them to be, lawns are a cultivated crop, and they take a lot of work. As my aunt says. “New Hampshire wants to be forest!” In other words, we have to maintain conditions for lawns to be successful. For Nashua, that means:

●       Maintaining a neutral pH through liming. Remember, liming takes a full three years to completely incorporate into your soil. We run very acidic in these parts (hello, granite bed rock), which grass hates. Be sure to do a pH test to determine how much, if any, lime you need to apply.

●       Get on a fertilizer routine. Apply at least in early June and early September as a minimum.

●       Raking. My least favorite chore, but you gotta do it if you plan on seeding your lawn.

●       An inch of water per week, including rainfall.

●       Seed in mid-August through mid-September. Rake the area thoroughly first, then apply a starter fertilizer. Do not bury your seed, it only needs to be gently pressed into the top of your soil. Keep the seed moistened until it germinates; if it dries out, it will die.

Lawns are a lot. I try to limit the amount of lawn we have. I also overseed with white dutch clover (check out what The Big Little Garden has to say about clover lawns). It’s much less persnickety; it doesn’t require so much water or fertilizer, and it fixes its own nitrogen (this keeps the plants very green). Plus, bees adore it ! My last piece of advice for any lawn or turf seed: go light on your application. Less is more when seeding; allow your grass and clover to spread through proper maintenance. Putting extra seed down “to make sure something comes up,” will eventually lead to too much competition, causing your grass to choke itself out. Save yourself the time and money. Looking for more information? Check out Nashua Farmers’ lawn care page, or visit us at the store!

Ugh, enough of lawns! I dream of replacing most of ours with native perennials. Speaking of, we’ve got some beautiful blooms going! My Joe Pye Weed (a native) is pushing out these sweet, pink flourishes. Next year, I hope to get them nice and tall! My meadow rue that I planted in the spring has such cool little blooms coming in! I am so excited to see the full show–meadow rue can reach up to 7’ tall, but mine are only about 4’ tall. Like Joe Pye, I want to see if I can really get them growing. My gladiolas are slowly opening still–some have tarnish on their petals. I wonder if it’s cold water damage from the rain, but they are still quite pretty; though, I might have to plant them elsewhere next year.

Until next week, enjoy your harvests and garden walks! If you have a bumper crop, share with family, friends, neighbors–or even soup kitchens and food pantries. There’s nothing better than sharing the wealth of a garden. My aunt shared a zucchini with me. This baby has chocolate zucchini cake written all over it!

Kate Ratta is the manager of the local feed store Nashua Farmers' Exchange, Inc. She has more than 10 years of experience working in the business owned by her aunt and uncle, Judy Ratta-Harrington and Gene Harrington, and will be contributing weekly garden reports. The store is located at 38½ Bridge Street in Nashua in the converted Boston & Maine and Concord Railroad station.

NASHUA, N.H. — Harbor Care announces the 22nd Annual NH Veteran Stand Down, taking place Friday, September 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Eversource Energy Park in Manchester. The free event will bring together more than 50 organizations to connect veterans and military families with services and support. Stand Down attendance also includes a free lunch for veterans.

Harbor Care also invites organizations and businesses across New Hampshire to participate as community partners and sponsors.

Organized by Harbor Care, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Presenting Sponsor Eversource, Stand Down brings veteran-serving organizations, government agencies, community and non-profit groups, and businesses together in one location, making it easier for veterans and their families to find the help they need.

“Stand Down works because so many organizations come together around one goal: making it easier for veterans to find the support they have earned,” said Henry Och, President and CEO of Harbor Care. “We invite organizations across New Hampshire to join us—whether by providing services at the event or helping make those services possible through sponsorship.”

Community partner organizations that provide benefits, resources, or other support to veterans are encouraged to participate. Services include employment assistance, medical and behavioral healthcare, housing support, VA benefits and claims assistance, food and clothing, legal and financial resources, and more.

The free outdoor event welcomes all former service members, veterans, and military families while continuing its longstanding commitment to veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.

Businesses can also support the event through sponsorship. Eversource is serving as this year’s Presenting Sponsor, continuing its support for an event that depends on collaboration across the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available at several levels at www.harborcarenh.org/stand-down.

“Military veterans have selflessly sacrificed on behalf of us all and are invaluable members of our communities. They make up a significant part of Eversource’s workforce because the experience, dedication, and skills they bring to the job make our teams stronger—as they do for countless businesses and organizations across the state,” said Bob Coates, Eversource’s President of NH Electric Operations. “We’re thrilled to once again host Harbor Care’s Stand Down and welcome veterans to Energy Park to get the services and support they need—and have earned through their dedicated service—for their journey forward.”

The NH Veteran Stand Down is modeled after the military tradition of a “stand down,” when troops could pause from duty to rest, receive supplies, and connect with essential support before returning to their mission. Today, the event carries that tradition forward by creating a welcoming place where veterans can get answers, meet directly with providers, and connect with fellow service members.

With more than 81,000 veterans calling New Hampshire home, coordinated access to services remains important across the state. The September event will also highlight progress toward ending veteran homelessness in Manchester, an initiative announced by Mayor Jay Ruais at the 2024 NH Veteran Stand Down.

For more information, including details about sponsorships and partnerships, visit www.harborcarenh.org/stand-down or email standdown@harborcarenh.org.

22nd Annual NH Veteran Stand Down

Friday, September 18, 2026
10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Eversource Energy Park
780 N. Commercial Street, Manchester, NH

www.harborcarenh.org/stand-down

Standdown@harborcarenh.org

Harbor Care is dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness through housing, healthcare, and veteran services. As an innovative nonprofit organization, Harbor Care assists more than 5,000 adults, children, and families in New Hampshire each year, offering solutions to some of life’s most challenging issues. The organization provides a range of services for individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, including transitional and permanent housing; medical, dental, and mental healthcare; substance use treatment; HIV/AIDS support services; and veteran services. Learn more at www.harborcarenh.org.

The volunteer team is composed of experienced legislators committed to constructive dialogue and effective governance.  Throughout the Forum's inaugural cycle, Legislative Advisors will provide guidance on the legislative viability of citizen-developed proposals, participate in public events, offer feedback during the Civic Assembly process, and help ensure citizen recommendations are informed by legislative experience and positioned for consideration during the 2027 legislative session.

The inaugural Legislative Advisory Team includes:

• Senator Tim Lang, Senate District 2 (R - Sanbornton)
• Senator Tara Reardon, Senate District 15 (D - Concord)
• Representative Mike Bordes, Belknap County District 5 (R - Laconia)
• Representative Dan Veilleux, Hillsborough District 34 (D - Amherst)
• Representative Kim Rice, Hillsborough District 38 (R - Hudson)
• Representative Alicia Gregg, Hillsborough District 7 (D - Nashua)
• Representative Bill Boyd, Hillsborough District 12 (R - Merrimack)
• Representative Jessica Grill, Hillsborough District 18 (D - Manchester)
• Representative Dave Lundgren, Rockingham District 16 (R - Londonderry)
• Representative Loren Selig, Strafford District 10 (D - Durham)

Legislative Advisors say the Forum offers an opportunity to build on New Hampshire’s tradition of citizen participation while creating a constructive pathway for residents to bring ideas to policymakers.

“New Hampshire’s citizen legislature works because people stay engaged. The New Hampshire Forum gives residents another opportunity to roll up their sleeves, work through difficult issues, and bring forward ideas that lawmakers from both parties can seriously consider. I’m proud to be part of that effort,” said State Senator Tim Lang.

For State Senator Tara Reardon, the Forum’s bipartisan approach also provides an opportunity to bring a broader range of voices into the policymaking process.

“The best public policy starts by listening to the people we serve. The New Hampshire Forum creates a meaningful opportunity for citizens from different backgrounds to come together, learn from one another, and develop thoughtful recommendations,” Reardon said. “I’m honored to serve as a Legislative Advisor and help ensure those ideas have a path forward in the Legislature.”

With the addition of the Legislative Advisory Team, the New Hampshire Forum is taking the next step in its effort to put citizens at the center of the legislative process.  Legislative Advisors help bridge the gap between the priorities Granite Staters identify together and the legislative action needed to move those priorities forward.  They bring experience and insight to help translate bipartisan citizen proposals into meaningful opportunities for action at the State House.

Together with citizens across the state, the Forum is building a new model for civic participation – one grounded in listening, common ground, and the belief that New Hampshire is strongest when its people have a meaningful voice in shaping its future.

Backpacks for Back-to-School: A Program Three Decades in the Making

The book bag program was launched in 1995 by longtime staff member Eileen Brady, making this the 31st year the Soup Kitchen has outfitted local students for the start of the new school year. What began as a modest school-supply drive has grown into one of the organization's largest annual volunteer efforts, rivaled only by its Thanksgiving food distribution in terms of scale.

Gathering supplies, packing backpacks and distribution unfold in stages. Next Monday, the nonprofits and schools that have submitted requests pick up their bags and on Tuesday the general public pickup will be held at the Ledge Street Elementary school.

School supplies are included in each backpack.  There is one selection of items for kindergarten through grade 5 and another for grades 6-12.  The backpacks are good quality in a large variety of colors that are selected for their durability. The intent is to have the bag last the school year.

Multiple companies and group have provided volunteer teams that have been essential to getting the big project done on time.. Weeks typically schedules teams of 10 across three shifts per day, meaning at least 30 volunteers on a given day, over a two-and-a-half-week preparation window. One recent Friday, an unexpected group of about 15 volunteers new to helping NSKS arrived and, in Weeks' words, "made miracles happen," fully sorting and organizing a backlog of donations — including 250 newly arrived backpacks — in a single shift.

Why the Need Is Growing

Asked whether demand has increased, Weeks didn't hesitate: "This year, it's got to be incredibly higher because of the cost of everything. Groceries, your electric bill, gas," she said, noting that school supplies can start to feel like a luxury for stretched family budgets. The pressure is real enough that one area high school called in January asking for additional bags — only to be told none were left, underscoring why the Soup Kitchen urges the community to order and donate early and generously.

Weeks said the organization begins sourcing supplies as early as June, timing bulk backpack orders to back-to-school sales at national retailers ahead of the region's August start date. Businesses that host supply drives, she added, are "the engines behind the project that make it successful," and residents who prefer not to shop can simply donate funds for staff to purchase supplies on their behalf.

The Moment That Makes It Worth It

For all the hard work and complex logistics, Weeks says her favorite part of the program remains simple: watching kids' faces on distribution day. "Their eyes are so big," she said, recalling past years’ memorable moments as children select their own bag.

At 9:03 p.m., Tuesday, August 12, 2026, Marine Patrol Officers received a report of a person who was possibly in the Merrimack River near the Taylor Falls Bridge on the Hudson/Nashua line.

A coordinated search of the river and surrounding area was conducted for several hours. At approximately 11:23 p.m., search personnel located an unresponsive 34-year-old male. The man was recovered from the water and pronounced deceased.

The identity of the man is being withheld pending the ongoing investigation.

The State Police remind anyone struggling with a mental health crisis that help is available. Anyone can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 for free and confidential support for themselves, a friend, or a loved one.

Marine Patrol Officers were assisted by members of the Hudson and Nashua police and fire departments, the Nashua Fire Rescue Dive Team, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact Trooper First Class Christopher Prenaveau at (603) 223-8620 or Christopher.J.Prenaveau@dos.nh.gov.

The APCO International Emergency Communications Center Awards recognize communications professionals from across the United States and beyond who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism and service to the public safety communications profession. According to APCO International, recipients represent the highest levels of professional conduct and outstanding performance in the line of duty.

As a Telecommunications Supervisor at New Hampshire 911, Talbot manages telecommunicators at a high-pressure 911 communications center. Her role encompasses everything from staffing and employee well-being to ensuring compliance with protocols and making policy recommendations.

"This recognition is a testament to Abby's unwavering commitment to both the people she serves and the team she leads," said DESC Director Mark Doyle. "She exemplifies the professionalism, compassion and leadership that define New Hampshire 911. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized on the international stage."

Talbot's selection comes one year after being named the Atlantic Chapter of APCO's 2025 Supervisor of the Year, an honor recognizing outstanding leadership among public safety communications professionals across New England. She has also been recognized by the New Hampshire Emergency Dispatchers Association as Supervisor of the Year and received national recognition for establishing the Department of Safety's first comfort dog program to support the wellness of 911 telecommunicators.

"Abby leads by example every day," said DESC Chief of Operations Deb Bray. "She has earned the respect of her peers through her dedication to excellence, her willingness to support others and her genuine commitment to the well-being of her team. This award reflects the impact she has on our organization and the profession as a whole."

Talbot received the award during APCO's Annual Conference & Expo in San Antonio, Texas.

Manchester, NH – A new report from Feeding America highlights a concerning rise in food insecurity across New Hampshire, particularly among children. According to the 2026 Map the Meal Gap study, child food insecurity increased by 6% year-over-year, climbing from 36,160 children in the 2025 report to 38,430 this year. Because the comprehensive federal surveys required for this study involve a standard two-year data processing lag, the newly published 2026 report reflects the reality families faced in 2024.

The overall food insecurity rate has also grown, with the latest data showing 11.2% of all New Hampshire residents lack consistent access to adequate food, up from 10.7% in the previous report. In response to these rising numbers, the New Hampshire Food Bank, a program of Catholic Charities New Hampshire, is urging Granite Staters to act and help support the local families who do not know where their next meal will come from.

“The Map the Meal Gap report confirms what we see every day: the struggle to put food on the table is a growing reality in every corner of the Granite State,” said Elsy Cipriani, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Food Bank. “What is most heartbreaking is the toll this takes on our children. As the state’s only food bank, we are working tirelessly to distribute fresh, nutritious food through our network of over 400 partner agencies. But we cannot do this alone. We are calling on our community to stand with us so we can reach our ultimate goal of eliminating hunger in New Hampshire.”

The following statistics reflect New Hampshire food insecurity rates by county, according to the 2026 Feeding America report:

• Belknap – 2026: Overall: 10.6%; Child: 15.8%
• Carroll – 2026: Overall: 11.1%; Child: 17.3%
• Cheshire – 2026: Overall: 11.5%; Child: 16.3%
• Coös – 2026: Overall: 15.4%; Child: 22.1%
• Grafton – 2026: Overall: 11.8%; Child: 16.2%
• Hillsborough – 2026: Overall: 11.1%; Child: 16.3%
• Merrimack – 2026: Overall: 11%; Child: 15%
• Rockingham – 2026: Overall: 8.8%; Child: 11.6%
• Strafford – 2026: Overall: 11.7%; Child: 16.6%
• Sullivan – 2026: Overall: 12.3%; Child: 18.3%

The following statistics reflect New Hampshire food insecurity rates by county, according to the 2025 Feeding America report:

• Belknap – 2025: Overall: 11.2%; Child: 16.1%
• Carroll – 2025: Overall: 10.9%; Child: 17.3%
• Cheshire – 2025: Overall: 11.6%; Child: 16.7%
• Coös – 2025: Overall: 14.3%; Child: 21.6%
• Grafton – 2025: Overall: 11.5%; Child: 15.7%
• Hillsborough – 2025: Overall: 10.3%; Child: 14.1%
• Merrimack – 2025: Overall: 10.5%; Child: 13.7%
• Rockingham – 2025: Overall: 8.9%; Child: 10.8%
• Strafford – 2025: Overall: 11.3%; Child: 14.1%
• Sullivan – 2025: Overall: 11.9%; Child: 16.9%

The 2026 Map the Meal report (2024 data) shows that while food insecurity rates remained relatively stable in some counties, in seven out of ten counties the state experienced measurable increases. The most significant increases were seen in Hillsborough, Strafford, Merrimack and Sullivan counties, especially among children. Strafford County's child food insecurity rate increased from 14.3% to 16.6%, while Hillsborough County rose from 14.3% to 16.3%. Merrimack and Sullivan counties also saw notable increases in child food insecurity, reaching 15.0% and 18.3%, respectively.

To address the growing demand for healthy and nutritious options, the Food Bank is significantly expanding its fresh rescue operations, increasing deliveries to remote communities, providing more fresh produce and protein through Mobile Food Pantries, and supporting partner agencies with capacity-building grants.

In 2025, the New Hampshire Food Bank distributed more than 20 million pounds of food to its more than 400 partner agencies statewide. In addition to distributing food to all corners of the state, the New Hampshire Food Bank provides an array of programming designed to address the root causes of hunger, including Culinary Job Training, Mobile Food Pantries, NH Feeding NH, the Nutrition Pantry Program, and SNAP Outreach and Application Assistance, among many others.

Residents looking to support the New Hampshire Food Bank can:

• Donate: for every $1 donated, 93 cents directly supports New Hampshire Food Bank’s programming
• Volunteer: visit nhfoodbank.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities
• Host a Food Drive: host a food drive or consider donating some of the New Hampshire Food Bank’s “Most Needed Items”
• Participate in Local Events: participate in upcoming programming and events happening throughout the state

About the New Hampshire Food Bank

The New Hampshire Food Bank, a program of Catholic Charities New Hampshire, has been working to relieve hunger in the Granite State since 1984. In 2025, as the state’s only food bank, the New Hampshire Food Bank efficiently procured and distributed more than 20 million pounds of food to people experiencing hunger through more than 400 partner agencies. Agencies include food pantries, neighborhood centers, low-income housing sites, senior nutrition centers, family crisis centers, hospices, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, after school programs and day care centers.

In addition to food distribution, the NH Food Bank leads innovative programming that helps fight the root causes of hunger by empowering people to learn new skills, enabling them to become more self-sufficient.

For more information about the New Hampshire Food Bank, please visit https://nhfoodbank.org/. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

2 of the suspected opioid ODs in July were suspected opioid OD deaths. 1 death occurred in Nashua and 1 occurred in Manchester.

The fatality percentage was 5% for July, which was significantly lower than the 12-month average of 11%.

The 38 suspected opioid ODs in July were 8% below the rolling 12-month average of 41. Both cities are now forecasting either a drop or no increase for this year vs. last year in both overall suspected opioid overdoses and more importantly opioid-related deaths, 

In Nashua, through July, the data indicates that Nashua is continuing to trend downward on an annual basis for suspected opioid ODs at 9% lower than the previous year.  If that number holds, it will mark 5 straight years of suspected opioid OD incidence decline in Nashua. More importantly, suspected opioid OD related deaths are trending 25% lower on an annual basis in Nashua from the previous year.

In Manchester, through July, the data indicates that Manchester is trending exactly at the same number as last year with no increase.  That’s after falling 47% over the last three years. Suspected opioid OD-related deaths are trending 5% lower on an annual basis in Manchester from the previous year after falling 49% over the last three years.

NASHUA JULY 2026

 Suspected opioid ODs – 10

Suspected fatal opioid ODs – 1

10% of the suspected opioid OD in Nashua were fatal in July.

MANCHESTER JULY 2026

Suspected opioid ODs – 28

Suspected fatal opioid ODs – 1

4% of the suspected opioid ODs in Manchester were fatal in July.

Please keep in mind that due to the nature of the opioid epidemic and its clear history of unpredictability, it is always possible that the trend of lower numbers could quickly change – as evidenced by the increase in Nashua this month. Overall, the trend is continuing in the right direction. With Narcan now widely available it is likely that some opioid overdoses are now occurring without 9-1-1 intervention and are not being reported due to rapid reversal.

In NH, anyone can seek substance use disorder treatment by accessing the NH Doorway program 24/7. To access the NH Doorway program, call 2-1-1 at any time of the day or night, or visit www.thedoorway.nh.gov. If you believe someone is overdosing call 9-1-1 immediately.

To help prevent death, it is critical that those who use illicit drugs do not use them alone and have Narcan readily available. Narcan is available throughout New Hampshire at most pharmacies. It is available free of charge from local public health departments & any NH Doorway location. It is completely safe and easy to administer. Narcan is available ‘over the counter’, meaning it is available without a prescription to anyone seeking it.

LONDONDERRY, N.H.—Looking for fun and family-friendly activities for the final week of summer vacation? Then look no further than the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport!

The museum will open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 25 during the final full week of summer vacation for most N.H. public school students. This is in addition to its regular open hours of Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.

"Adding these extra days means we'll be open every day from Wednesday, Aug. 19 all the way through Sunday, Aug. 30," said Jeff Rapsis, the museum's executive director. "It's a great opportunity for families to make summertime memories before school starts."

The Aviation Museum of N.H. offers activities and exhibits for kids of all ages; from a real Embraer cockpit which future pilots love to play in, to scavenger hunts and a collection of aviation-themed toys that visitors are encouraged to interact and have fun with.

Knowledgeable volunteers, many of whom have years of experience in aviation-related fields, are available to offer tours and answer questions from kids and adults alike.

Families with children age 12 and under are invited to a free aviation-themed Story Time on Tuesday, Aug. 25 or Thursday, Aug. 27 starting at 10 a.m. each day. Participants will enjoy reading several aviation-themed stories as well as additional activities.

Story Time is suitable for families with kids up to age 8. No reservations are required and it's free to all attendees; for families wishing to explore the museum afterwards, regular admission applies.

Also, the museum’s Elite Flight Simulator will be running on Saturday, Aug. 21 and Saturday, Aug. 28 from 1 to 4 p.m. each day, giving young pilots age 13 and up a chance to experience flying a single-engine plane. Simulator operators will be on duty; use of the simulator is on a first-come, first-served basis. The simulator is included with museum admission.

Museum admission for children age 5 and under is free, kids ages 6 to 12 are $7.50. The museum also offers $7.50 admission for veterans and families. Standard admission for adults (age 13 and above) is $15. Holders of EBT cards are eligible for $5 admission under the 'Museums for All' program.

In addition, the Aviation Museum’s parking lot is the closest the public can get to the runways at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, making it a great location for plane-watching as the big jets come and go. The parking lot is free and open to the public every day from dawn until daily 8 p.m.

Come see why the Aviation Museum of N.H. was named the ‘Best Place to Take Kids’ in Southern N.H. six years in a row in the annual Hippo Reader's Poll. 

The Aviation Museum, a non-profit 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization based in the 1937 art deco passenger terminal at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, is dedicated to preserving the Granite State's rich aviation past, and also inspiring today's students to become the aviation pioneers of tomorrow.

The Aviation Museum is located at 27 Navigator Road, off Harvey Road, in Londonderry, N.H.

For more information, visit www.aviationmuseumofnh.org or call (603) 669-4820. Follow the Aviation Museum online on www.facebook.com/nhahs

Monday, August 10, 2026

Housing Revolving Fund Meeting:   Meets at 5:00 PM EDT in City Hall Room 208 (2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

Ad Hoc Joint Committee on Capital Expenditures and Debt Service Planning: Meets at 6:00 PM EDT in the Aldermanic Chambers (2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

 Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Arts Commission Meeting:  Meets at 8:00 AM EDT 3rd Floor Auditorium Nashua City Hall 229 Main Street

Zoning Board of Adjustment: Meets at 6:30 PM EDT at the City Hall Auditorium (3rd Floor, 229 Main Street).

Board of Aldermen: Meets at 7:30 PM EDT in the Aldermanic Chambers (2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

 Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Board of Health Meeting: Meets at 12:30 PM EDT at 18 Mulberry Street (2^nd Floor)

Greeley Park Advisory Committee: Meets at 5:00 PM EDT at Mine Falls Conference Room, DPW (848 West Hollis Street)

 Friday, August 14, 2026

Downtown Improvement Committee: Meets at 7:35 AM EDT in City Hall Room 208 (2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

Nashua Center for the Arts Board of Trustees Meeting: Meets at 9:00 AM EDT in City Hall Room 208 (2nd Floor, 229 Main Street)

If you'd like to review the agendas, minutes, or check for any last-minute schedule changes, let me know if you want details for a specific board, or visit the Nashua Public Hearings Directory and City of Nashua Agendas Portal to see the full list of posting

Official Live Streams (Web Browsers)

You can watch gavel-to-gavel live streams of city operations directly through the CTV Live Streams Portal on the City of Nashua Website:

• Board of Aldermen & Infrastructure Committees: Watch on the Government TV 16 Live Stream.
• School Board & Education Committees: Watch on the Nashua ETV Live Stream.

YouTube Channels (Live & Archived Recordings)

If you miss a live broadcast, the city categorizes and uploads meeting archives onto dedicated YouTube channels:

• Board of Aldermen & City Subcommittees: Available on the Nashua BOA Meetings YouTube Channel.
• Board of Education & School Committees: Available on the Nashua BOE Meetings YouTube Channel.
• General Educational & Community Programming: Available on the Nashua ETV YouTube Channel and Nashua Public Television Channel 6.

NASHUA, N.H. — The Nashua Community Music School’s (NCMS) highly anticipated annual fundraiser rock show, Play It Forward is scheduled for Sunday, August 16 at 2pm. Happening at Taffeta Music Hall in Lowell, MA, this all-ages, family friendly, afternoon event raises funds for NCMS student scholarships and free music programming, all while celebrating live local music and community. An epic summer rock show and celebration all in one.

NCMS provides the only FREE teen rock band program in the state of New Hampshire, one of the programs funded by Play It Forward. NCMS’ teen rock band, Fates Collide, will open the show, showcasing the talent of young musicians developing their talents at NCMS. “There’s something so special to me about learning an instrument and then being able to play it with other people,” said teen rock band member and NCMS student Gabriel Bartoli. “...it’s a special connection you can’t get through anything else. The community is amazing. I’ve made some very close friends just by doing music every day. Having all the support I have here (at NCMS) definitely helped me grow into the person I am now.”

Soulful ska reggae Westbound Train hit the stage as this year’s Play It Forward headliner. “We’re super stoked to be a part of this,” says Obi Fernandez of Westbound Train. “(NCMS) offers great resources for next gen to get involved in music, learn about music and the arts… it’s a great cause, it’s going to be an awesome day!” Influenced by pioneers ranging from The Skatalites to Otis Redding, Hepcat to The Slackers, the band's infectious vocal hooks and high-energy live shows have found them performing all over the world--from the Vans Warped Tour to Summer of Ska to Rude Cat Festival to countless reggae festivals and national and international tours.

“After almost a decade, Play It Forward has become a summer tradition for so many in our community and we can’t wait to bring the good vibes to Lowell. Westbound Train is the perfect headliner, because their high energy, dancey music shows that you can do WAY MORE with your trumpet, trombone, or sax than just play in a concert band or orchestra,” said NCMS Executive Director, Lindsay Rinaldi. Where else can you find live music the entire family will enjoy AND be home in time for dinner?” 

“There aren’t many rock shows out there that put both professional musicians on stage with the rising stars of tomorrow. This is your chance to share the live music experience with your kids in a fun and safe space. Best of all, you’ll walk away knowing your ticket will help us bring free music programming to 300 people every week! 

Tickets for Play It Forward 2026 start at $20 (+ fees) if purchased online. To avoid fees, you can purchase your tickets in advance at Taffeta’s box office, at A Damn Shame Records in the Hive, or at the door for $30. Children 5 & under receive free admission.

Charlie served with the Mounted Unit for only a relatively short chapter of his life, but his impact on the program and the community was significant. He helped establish what Nashua's Mounted Unit could be—not simply another public safety resource, but a way of creating connections between police officers and the people they serve.

That was precisely the type of horse Capt. Jennifer Moriarty was looking for when Charlie was selected for the new unit.

Before coming to Nashua, Charlie had been a pulling horse, competing at state and local fairs. His experience meant that crowds, noise and chaotic environments were familiar to him. He also came from a family with young children who adored him and would climb all over him whenever given the opportunity.

"From the moment I met Charlie, he was one of the kindest, most gentle souls that I have ever met," Moriarty recalled. "I knew that it would take a very special horse to be a new ambassador for our community."

His demeanor around children was particularly important. Combined with his experience at fairs, it gave Moriarty confidence that Charlie possessed the temperament necessary for police work. That assessment was reinforced during the months of training that followed.
"He never ceased to amaze us with what he would put up with as far as noise, strange objects and exposure to new environments," Moriarty said. "He was always willing to please."

Once Charlie began patrolling Nashua alongside Officers Haley Paulay, Katie Finn and Lauren Colletti, another part of his value became apparent. At nearly 17 hands tall, he could initially be intimidating. Yet the same people who hesitated to approach him often ended up reluctant to leave.

Colletti described him as a "big teddy bear" who was loving and patient despite his imposing size. She remembers watching people move from being nervous about approaching him to being unable to stop petting him.

 For Finn, that ability was part of what made Charlie such an effective member of the Mounted Unit.

"He was so patient and kind to everyone he met," she recalled. "He welcomed everyone on the street to come say hello, even people who were nervous to meet horses or maybe didn't want to talk with law enforcement. Charlie's kind spirit would calm everyone and let them open up to us for a conversation."

That may be Charlie's most important legacy.

Mounted units have an obvious operational purpose. Horses give officers visibility, mobility and a unique presence in crowds and at large public events. But their value can also be found in the much smaller interactions they create. A person who might never walk up to a police cruiser will walk across the street to meet a horse. A child who may be apprehensive around a uniformed officer will ask to pet one. A conversation begins that otherwise might never have occurred.

Charlie was exceptionally good at creating those moments.

Of course, those who worked with him also knew that beneath his calm police demeanor was a horse with plenty of personality.

Paulay remembers Charlie as "an old soul who always held it together even when he was unsure of things." Some of her favorite memories are not of major events, but of quiet moments—riding down an empty Main Street at 3 a.m. or watching Fourth of July fireworks from Charlie's back. On one bitterly cold patrol, the officers attempted to tuck Charlie and fellow Mounted Unit horse Sam into a secluded downtown alley so they could eat a snack out of public view. As Paulay discovered, it is difficult to hide a 17-hand draft horse.

Finn remembers Charlie's remarkable ability to fall asleep almost anywhere—outside PAL, standing on Main Street or in the middle of an event. Colletti remembers his head slowly dropping until he suddenly woke himself up, only to repeat the process a few minutes later.

Those quieter moments extended to the volunteers who cared for Charlie when there was no crowd and no police equipment.

Volunteer Larry Clay remembers working alone in a dark paddock one Friday night. While cleaning, he suddenly felt a warm breath on the back of his neck. Startled, he turned around to find himself nose-to-nose with Charlie, who had silently crossed the paddock simply to visit him.

"He was just coming over to say hi," Clay recalled. "What really impressed me was how absolutely silent he was as he approached. This is my favorite memory of that sweet boy."

Volunteer Chris Toomey's children experienced that same gentleness. Charlie would place his head on their shoulders as they walked with him into his stall to eat.

These memories help explain why Charlie's passing has affected so many people. The community knew a police horse. His riders and volunteers knew the individual behind the badge.

Earlier this summer, changes in Charlie's health led to veterinary testing and the diagnosis of irreversible chronic kidney failure. After consultation with his veterinary team, it became clear that there was no treatment that could reverse the disease. The decision was made to humanely lay Charlie to rest before his condition caused unnecessary suffering. He spent his final days surrounded by the people who had ridden him, cared for him and loved him.

For Moriarty, there is understandable sadness that Charlie's police career was so brief. There is also gratitude that his final chapter was one of service.

"Although it absolutely breaks my heart that we had him for such a short time, living out his last year as a police horse and engaging with our community was the most noble way for him to leave this world," she said.

Charlie came to Nashua at the beginning of something new. He helped a young Mounted Unit establish its identity and demonstrated why a horse can still have an important place in modern policing. His contribution cannot be measured simply by the number of patrols he completed or events he attended. It can also be measured by the people who stopped to talk because he was there, the children who reached up to pet him and the relationships that began with a simple question about the enormous horse standing on a Nashua street.

The Mounted Unit will continue. New horses will join its ranks, new riders will take the reins and the program Charlie helped establish will grow.

But those of us who had the privilege of knowing Charlie will remember the gentle draft horse who transitioned from the pulling ring to police service and, in doing so, became one of Nashua's most recognizable ambassadors.

His watch may have ended, but his contribution to the Nashua Police Mounted Unit will remain part of its story.

End of Watch: August 1, 2026.

The Board of Directors of the Friends of the Nashua Police Department Mounted Unit extends its gratitude to Charlie's riders, volunteers, veterinary team, supporters and members of the community who cared for him and made his final year one defined by service and companionship.

Remember when I was dancing at the prospect of rain? Well, you might have noticed we got some! My gardens underwent significant downpours, but the wind caused some damage. Earlier this week, I woke up to find one of my tomatillos flattened to the ground. I’m upset, though puzzled. This plant was in the middle of the row (it was the only one flattened); it was staked and tied. When I took a closer look, the pole was still standing straight, but my ties looked like they had been untied. It wasn’t an animal, or the pole would be bent, and there was no trace of animal tracks to be found! Mystery…I’m going to chalk it up to the wind for now. The tomatillo was partially snapped, so I tied it back up on the stake and am hoping for the best.

I’m really starting to harvest. I’m picking okra, and their cream-yellow blooms are making their showcase. I’m still picking blueberries as well, and I’m waiting to pull my shallots till it’s a little drier. I mentioned in the last garden report, but I will say it again: if you want to store your shallots or onions, properly drying them is imperative. My tomatillos and tomatoes still need a bit more time to develop and ripen, while my late-planted butternut squash and cucumbers have a ways to go. As a side note: if you’re worried about buying store-bought lettuce and leafy greens, don’t forget you can do a late summer/fall planting!

Moving on to what’s buggin’ us in the garden: with the rain we have gotten, keep an eye out for disease and fungus. Humid weather allows disease to flourish! I’m still working to slow down the blight on my tomatoes, and I have heard customers mention fungus concerns on squash foliage. What has been most concerning to me lately isn’t in the veggie garden. We have a lot of hemlocks in our yard, and they are very susceptible to hemlock wooly adelgid. These insects can do some significant damage and even kill these trees if the infestation is significant.

 Well, I have seen the adelgid present and injury to these trees. In the agricultural industry, the standard treatment for these insects is chemical treatment. I am very, very hesitant to do this. I haven’t yet decided what to do, but I can see how much these trees are suffering. Sometimes there aren’t easy solutions in the garden but know that it’s okay to take time to decide what to do. If you have concerns like this, make sure you consult with a professional to properly identify issues and appropriate solutions.

But enough garden worries for now! Let’s talk about what’s blooming. You know I’m thrilled to see my okra’s sweet, yet eye-catching flowers. Our butterfly bush, though it has struggled this year, has pushed out its vivid purple flowers. It’s a welcome sight to see these tall, waving stems burst with color! My daylilies are still going strong, along with my hollyhocks. Around town, cheery-faced sunflowers are greeting all who pass by. My red flame celosias are ramping up, and I’m seeing a flash of pink budding on flamingo feather celosia. What am I most excited for? While my back was turned, my gladiolas finally sent up their flower stems! I am seeing peeks of colors on these cuties.

Before I bid you farewell, a quick note on lawns and turf: we are approaching the best time of year to seed grasses. The third week of August through mid-September is the ideal window to plant, but it is important to do some prep work first!

●       If needed, aerate your lawn. This helps to break up compacted soils.

●       Thoroughly rake and dethatch the area. I highly suggest doing this after aerating.

●       Weed out anything undesirable. Your grass seed wants contact with the mineral soil, so remove obstacles where you can

●       Finally, I highly recommend doing a pH test of your soil. We run quite acidic in this area, and grass wants a neutral pH. Apply lime as needed (come talk to us at Nashua Farmers’ Exchange for more information and advice).

That’s it for now! More to come on lawns and what’s growing in the garden next week!

Kate Ratta is the manager of the local feed store Nashua Farmers' Exchange, Inc. She has more than 10 years of experience working in the business owned by her aunt and uncle, Judy Ratta-Harrington and Gene Harrington, and will be contributing weekly garden reports. The store is located at 38½ Bridge Street in Nashua in the converted Boston & Maine and Concord Railroad station.

We at Downtown Nashua Association are excited to share that we are gearing up for the return of Coloring Main Street. We introduced this event last year and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive so bringing it back was a no-brainer. 

On September 26th, Downtown Nashua sidewalks will once again transform into giant coloring-book canvases, outlined by talented local artists and ready for participants of all ages to bring to life with color. The event is free, family-friendly, and lots of fun, running from 12PM to 3PM along Main Street. 

We hope you stop by Renaissance Park this Saturday at 7:30PM to check out the Mike Stockbridge Quartet at the pavilion, and return on Sunday for the Nashua Farmers Market.

Take a look below at some of the other fun things going on this week.

Stay cool and I’ll see ya Downtown!

Elaina Bedio, Downtown Nashua Association 

Thursday 8/6

5:00PM: Pokémon League Night at Grave Troll Games

5:00PM: Buck-a-Shuck Oysters at The Pearl

5:30PM: Kat Ivy at Union Public House

7:00PM: Buzztime Trivia at Odd Fellows Brewing Co

7:30PM: Open Mic Night at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

7:30PM: Trivia Night at Liquid Therapy

Friday 8/7

12:30PM: Fryday: Fried specials all day at Soel Sistas Café

3:00PM: Free Drop-in Painting class at ArtHub Downtown Gallery

7:00PM: The Tempest at Greeley Park

7:30PM: Oteil & Friends at Nashua Center for the Arts

7:30PM: Ian Archibold at Union Public House

9:30PM: Karoake Dance Party at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

Saturday 8/1

8:00AM: Hazardous Waste Collection at Pelham Hwy Dept (until 3PM)

2:00PM: The Tempest at Greeley Park

7:00PM: The Tempest at Greeley Park

7:30PM: Dan Morgan at Union Public House

7:30PM: Mike Stockbridge Quartet at Renaissance Park

8:00PM: Boom Lava Reggae at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

9:30PM: Pop Farmers at The Peddler's Daughter

Sunday 8/8

10:00AM: Nashua Farmers Market

3:00PM: Danny McCarthy at Stella Blu (patio)

6:00PM: Sunday Evening Karaoke at The Spot

Monday 8/9

8:00PM: Tipsy Bingo at The Peddler's Daughter

Tuesday 8/10

7:00PM: Trivia at The Peddler's Daughter

8:00PM: Music Bingo at Fody's Tavern

Wednesday 8/11

5:30PM: Pete Smith at Union Public House

7:00PM: Free Movie Night at The Spot

8:00PM: Trivia at Fody's Tavern

Johnson has been located; however, he was unfortunately found deceased. The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation by the Nashua Police Department.

There is no additional information available for release at this time.

The Nashua Police Department extends its deepest condolences to Johnson’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. We also thank the members of the public who assisted by sharing information and supporting the search efforts.

On August 6, 2026, Johnson was reported missing to the Nashua Police Department.  Family and friends are concerned for his well-being.  They do not have any information at this time as to where he may be headed. 

Johnson left the residence operating a gray 2026 Honda CR-V with New Hampshire Handicap registration 7G81.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Officer Alex Gangi at GangiA@nashuapd.com or by phone at (603) 589-6132.

Those who wish to remain anonymous may submit tips through the Nashua Police tip line at (603) 589-1665 or contact the main line at 603-594-3500.

A new Remote Pilot Certificate preparation course at Nashua Community College begins August 31 at Nashua Community College. The 8-week class can accommodate up to 15 students and costs $400.

“This course will be an FAA (Part 107) Remote Pilot Certificate preparation course to operate drone up to 55 pounds,” said Professor Doug Mitchell, Chair of the Aviation Department at NCC. “Students who take this course will learn the knowledge test topics areas needed to pass the ‘Unmanned Aircraft General- Small UAG’ Test needed to get their FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (AKA Drone License).”

This ground school will be online based, with some active drove flying, said Mitchell.    

Over the 8-weeks of training, students will learn a series of key topic areas to prepare to test for their FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, including:

• Applicable regulations relating to small unmanned aircraft system rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation
• Airspace classification and operating requirements, and flight restrictions affecting small unmanned aircraft operation
• Aviation weather sources and effects of weather on small unmanned aircraft performance
• Small unmanned aircraft loading and performance
• Emergency procedures
• Crew resource management
• Radio communication procedures
• Determining the performance of small unmanned aircraft
• Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol
• Aeronautical decision-making and judgment
• Airport operations
• Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures
• Operation at night

To pilot a drone, students must also meet a series of requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
• Be in a physical and mental condition to safely fly a drone
• Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam: "Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)”
• Pass a TSA Security Background test

Those who meet the requirements and earn their Drone License can qualify for a variety of career pathways, such as:

• Infrastructure Inspection and Maintenance
• Search and Rescue Operations
• Agriculture and Precision Farming
• Law Enforcement and Public Safety
• Aerial Photography and Videography
• Mapping and Surveying
• Environmental Monitoring and Conservation
• Emergency Response and Disaster Management
• Telecommunications and Power Line Inspection
• Medical and Cargo Delivery

To sign up for the Remote Pilot Certificate preparation course, contact Professor Doug Mitchell at DWMitchell@ccsnh.edu or visit nashuacc.edu/drone-pilot-training for more information.

About the Aviation Department at Nashua Community College
Beyond the new Remote Pilot Certificate training, NCC also offers associate degrees in Air Traffic Control, Aviation Management (100% online), and an associate degree or certificate in Aviation Technology.

About Nashua Community CollegeSince 1970, Nashua Community College has been successfully meeting the educational needs of Greater Nashua by delivering a high quality two-year, post-secondary education. The college partners closely with area industries that provide students with a unique perspective in their fields of study, allowing for a real-world experience to further their academic journey. Students can choose from a variety of associate degree, certificate, and career training programs. Nashua Community College is a member of the Community College System of New Hampshire. The seven community colleges in the system are committed to working with businesses throughout the state to train and retain employees to develop a robust workforce across all sectors.  Learn more at nashuacc.edu. 

The fair features more than 200 craftspeople and guest artists exhibiting and selling their work alongside live demonstrations and curated exhibitions. You will discover fine woodwork, clay and ceramics, metal and jewelry, glass and fiber and photography and mixed media designs. The talent and artistry on display among the backdrop of Mount Sunapee is inspiring.

Make sure to stop by and say hello to Nashua craftspeople Mark and Kathleen Frank. They are the owners of Renaissance Glass in the Picker Arts building and are longtime exhibitors at the annual fair.

This fair is the largest annual fundraiser for the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen and allows them to continue to provide arts advocacy and educational opportunities for their members and the public year-round. The fair is open 10am-5pm rain or shine through August 9. Tickets are $20 at the door or $18 online. Children under 16 are free. For tickest and information click here.

Parking is free and your ticket includes a $10 discount for the scenic chairlift ride to the summit of Mount Sunapee which is a fun bonus adventure!

The school principals from Nashua’s thirteen schools look forward to welcoming students and their families to the start of a new school year.  Keith Richard, Principal, Nashua High School South described Nashua Goes Back to School as, “….A great way to kick off the school year with energy and support.  Students receive essential school supplies, helping them start the year prepared and confident. It’s also a chance for families to connect with valuable community resources. This event brings everyone together, creating a strong and supportive start for students, families, and the entire school community.”  

Representatives from over 40 community organizations provide information about their programs for students and their family members. NGB2S provides an opportunity for families to learn about programs such as the Nashua Community Music School, Nashua PAL, Boy Scouts, SCARE (second-hand costumes), First Tech Robotics, NH Food Bank/ SNAP Outreach, Nashua Y Academy, Girl Scouts, Nashua Center for Lifelong Learning and Bridges. This year UNH Manchester will be providing information about the programs they offer, the admissions process, financial resources, and support for veterans. 

The first Nashua Goes Back to School Celebration was August 2004 and coincided with the first time Nashua started the school year with two high schools. The event continues to reflect the research which indicates students are more successful and less likely to drop out when they feel connected and supported by others in their community, the lunch lady, a coach, a peer, a scout leader or a music lessons teacher.

Nashua Goes Back to School is funded through community donations. The Greater Nashua United Way serves as the 501c-3 fiscal agent, but No United Way funds are used for this event. Donations may be made by Check, payable to United Way of Greater Nashua, noting NGBTS in the memo line and mailed to: NGB2S 20 Broad Street, Nashua New Hampshire 03064; or Donate Online

Flash flood warnings were issued early Monday for southern Hillsborough County by the National Weather Service office in Gray, Maine. The heaviest rain fell in the morning, and the storm continued into the early evening. More than 4 inches of rain had been recorded by day’s end.

Nashua Office of Emergency Management Director Emily Martuscello said flooding was reported in the city’s “usual locations,” noting that a large volume of rain in a short period can overwhelm storm drains. “We have a few roads flooded and there have been reports of minor accidents this morning, but for the most part, no significant damage has occurred,” she said.

A cold front will move through the area tonight with intermittent showers and possible thunderstorms. Lower humidity and more comfortable conditions are expected Tuesday, with heat and humidity returning Wednesday. High temperatures are expected to climb back into the 90s for the rest of the week.

The event will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Nashua.at the Soldiers & Sailors Monument.

Gate City Voices is pleased to welcome Liz Tentarelli, President of the League of Women Voters New Hampshire, as the featured guest speaker. Tentarelli has been a longtime advocate for voter education, civic participation, and protecting the fundamental right to vote.

The event is designed to bring neighbors together in a welcoming environment to learn more about the importance of civic engagement, voter participation, and ensuring every eligible voter has the information they need to make their voice heard.

"At Gate City Voices, we believe democracy is strongest when people are informed, engaged, and empowered to participate," said Michele Buckley, founder of Gate City Voices. "Unite & Rise is an opportunity for our community to come together peacefully, connect with one another, and celebrate the importance of exercising our civic rights."

Community members of all backgrounds are encouraged to attend. The event will feature opportunities to connect with local organizations, learn about voting resources, and hear from leaders committed to strengthening civic participation throughout New Hampshire.

Event Details

What: Unite & Rise: Voting Rights Day of Action -Nashua, NHWhen: Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.Where: Soldiers & Sailors Monument, Nashua, New Hampshire 

About Gate City Voices

Gate City Voices is a grassroots community organization dedicated to fostering civic engagement, encouraging respectful dialogue, and empowering individuals to become active participants in their communities. Through peaceful gatherings, voter education, and community partnerships, Gate City Voices works to strengthen democracy by bringing people together and encouraging every voice to be heard.

Under a 2025 law (SB 221), New Hampshire now verifies its voter checklists every year, not once a decade. Names are removed annually; some voters have been dropped despite voting regularly and never moving. A database mix-up or missed verification letter could mean arriving to vote and finding you're not listed.

So take two minutes now: go to app.sos.nh.gov/voter information or call your town/city clerk.

If you need to register or re-register, bring documents proving age, citizenship, identity, and domicile. A birth certificate or passport proves citizenship; if you lack those, a May federal court ruling lets you again sign an affidavit. But the affidavit covers only citizenship; for the rest, a license with your current address covers all three, or add a lease, utility bill, or tax document.

Still, bring citizenship documents (paper or on your phone) if you possibly can. Under legislation finalized in June (HB 1062), the state could "randomly" audit the citizenship of affidavit registrants using databases a federal judge found unreliable for people born or married out of state. An eligible voter flagged by a bad match can be referred to the Attorney General. Documents up front spare you that.

On Election Day, September 8 primary, November 3 general, every voter needs a government-issued photo ID to get a ballot; student IDs no longer count.

The rules have changed more in two years than in the previous twenty. Check your registration, gather your documents, and vote because your vote matters.

FRANKIE SMITH - Nashua, N.H.

At 3:42 a.m., Sunday, August 2, 2026, State Troopers assigned to the Troop B barracks received a report of a vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-293, near Exit 5, in Manchester.

Within two minutes of the initial call, Sgt. Brendan Tallon found the vehicle, a white Nissan Altima, driving head-on toward him, southbound, on the northbound side of the F.E. Everett Turnpike. As the Altima approached, Sgt. Tallon used his patrol vehicle, with its emergency lights activated, to block the lane to protect other innocent motorists. The driver brought the Nissan to a stop at mile marker 19.6 in Bedford.

The driver was identified as Paul Conners, 72, of Nashua.

Conners was arrested on charges of misdemeanor reckless conduct and violations of reckless operation and negligent driving. He is scheduled to appear in Merrimack District Court on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. No booking photo is available at this time.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Trooper Alexander Guilbeault at Alexander.R.Guilbeault@dos.nh.gov.  

Monday, August 3, 2026

• Board of Education Special Meeting
  • Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: NHSN Lecture Hall (Nashua High School North)

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

• Joint Meeting – Committee on Infrastructure and Library Board of Trustees (Special Meeting)
  • Time: 6:30 PM
  • Location: Aldermanic Chambers, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 229 Main St
• Conservation Commission Meeting
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: Room 208, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 229 Main St

Wednesday, August 5, 2026

• Finance Committee
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: Aldermanic Chambers, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 229 Main St

Thursday, August 6, 2026

• Board of Assessors Meeting
  • Time: 9:00 AM
  • Location: Auditorium, 3rd Floor, City Hall, 229 Main St
• Keefe Auditorium Commission
  • Time: 4:30 PM
  • Location: Room 208, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 229 Main St
• Planning Board Meeting
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: Auditorium, 3rd Floor, City Hall, 229 Main St

City meetings frequently provide public access and are generally held at City Hall located at 229 Main Street.

If you'd like to review the agendas, minutes, or check for any last-minute schedule changes, let me know if you want details for a specific board, or visit the Nashua Public Hearings Directory and City of Nashua Agendas Portal to see the full list of posting

Official Live Streams (Web Browsers)

You can watch gavel-to-gavel live streams of city operations directly through the CTV Live Streams Portal on the City of Nashua Website:

• Board of Aldermen & Infrastructure Committees: Watch on the Government TV 16 Live Stream.
• School Board & Education Committees: Watch on the Nashua ETV Live Stream.

YouTube Channels (Live & Archived Recordings)

If you miss a live broadcast, the city categorizes and uploads meeting archives onto dedicated YouTube channels:

• Board of Aldermen & City Subcommittees: Available on the Nashua BOA Meetings YouTube Channel.
• Board of Education & School Committees: Available on the Nashua BOE Meetings YouTube Channel.
• General Educational & Community Programming: Available on the Nashua ETV YouTube Channel and Nashua Public Television Channel 6.

This column is about respite care.  Most people associate respite with service-providing care in relief of a primary caregiver, but it can be more subtle.  Relief may be an effect, coming from support other than substitute care such as information, friendly visitors, a delivered meal that does not have to be prepared, someone else to set up the week’s medications.   Careful discernment about what caregivers find provides them with relief is important as one size does not fit all.

Publicly funded respite service has been traditionally offered primarily to live in caregivers which can create eligibility issues.  How can the granddaughter who lived in the apartment above her nana, the primary caregiver, though not in the same unit be supported.  New England has many such households, and most services recognize this as a respite situation.

Respite care gives family caregivers a temporary break from caregiving duties — anywhere from hours to a few weeks — so they can rest, handle other responsibilities, get to their medical appointments, or just recharge. It is one of the most important tools for preventing caregiver burnout.

Types include In-home respite — a paid aide, trained volunteer, or companion comes to the house to be with the person while the caregiver steps out or rests.

Adult day programs — the person with dementia spends the day (often with structured activities, meals, and social engagement) at a center, and the caregiver has the day free.

Residential/overnight respite — short-term stays (days to a few weeks) at an assisted living facility, nursing home, or memory care community. Useful for longer breaks, like a caregiver's own medical procedure or a vacation.

Informal respite — other family members, friends, or faith/community groups stepping in for a few hours.

How people typically pay for it:

·         Out of pocket

·         Long-term care insurance (if the policy covers it)

·         VA has specific respite programs for eligible veterans

·         Aging agencies such as the Aging and Disability Resource Center for Hillsborough    County may have funds. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Nashua in the same building as the Nashua Senior Activity Center 603-598-4709

·         Visiting Nurses respite care program

Michael Splaine has worked with older adults since 1986, primarily people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, their families and professional caregivers. He is the principal of a small advocacy and government affairs consultancy and has collaborated with leaders in Alzheimer's organizations across the U.S. and in more than 60 countries, representing them at the World Health Organization and the United Nations. His columns will provide information and perspective on aging issues.

The application period opened on March 25, 2026, and HSEM submitted all state applications ahead of the federal deadline of July 23, 2026.

“These grant opportunities can be key to helping build more resilient communities before a disaster strikes,” said HSEM Director Robert Buxton. “We will continue to work with our partners to assist them with future funding opportunities as they arise.”

BRIC provides federal resources to help states, local communities, tribes, and territories reduce impact from future disasters by strengthening infrastructure through mitigation.

Under the combined NOFO, New Hampshire applied for $2 million in state allocated funds and $728,715.28 in Building Code Plus-Up funding, which is used to adopt, enforce, and implement modern, hazard-resistant building codes. The State also assisted five sub-applicants in submitting an additional $43 million in competitive grant funds.

Submittals included construction implementation costs for Barrington’s Daniel Cater Road and Claremont’s Grandy Brook Drainage Improvement. Both stem from previously funded BRIC project scoping efforts.

HSEM also submitted planning sub-applications under the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program for FFY2024. This was the first time the state applied for FMA funding since FFY2019.

The FMA submissions focus on local hazard mitigation planning activities that are no longer eligible under BRIC, ensuring communities can continue to maintain FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plans.

The total amount of the submittals for BRIC and FMA is $47,735,174.50. If chosen, 75% of the project cost is grant funded with 25% being funded by the eligible applicant. One hundred percent of management costs are federally funded.

“We are excited to assist our partners with their grants should they be chosen to receive funding,” said Austin Brown, Chief of Mitigation and Recovery at HSEM. “Taking action before a disaster happens is the best way to lessen the impacts.”

In addition, HSEM submitted a Legislative Pre Disaster Mitigation project for coastal resiliency storm water flow in Hampton with a federal cost share of $795,498.44.

Local communities in New Hampshire who have project ideas, can submit them to HSEM via a Letter of Intent form.

Knowing to expect rain, I prepared by giving everything a good, thorough watering, as well as fertilizer (except for my shallots). With the soil being so dry, giving water before the storm will hopefully allow the plants to uptake more moisture rather than just running off. But I am positively dancing at the prospect of this rainfall (no judging, I think plants enjoy terrible dancing). All this to say: hauling water around can get tiring!

If you remember from a couple weeks ago, I found damage that I was unsure if it was fruitworm or blossom-end rot. So, it’s time for a dissection! I cut up one tomato and found no evidence of fruitworm, so I am more confident that the plant has blossom-end rot. It simply needs a foliar calcium spray. The coming fruit will hopefully be without any black spots and rot.

I am starting to spy evidence of blight on the tomatoes as well, which in my garden is amazing–usually we are very far along with this disease at this point in the season. One good thing about hot, dry weather: diseases don’t thrive as well in these conditions. I will be applying a fungicide to slow down the blight.

We had a false alarm on squash vine borer damage, so I will stop procrastinating and wrap the first 12” of vine with fabric. I also spied some Japanese Beetles on my okra–its the first time in a long while I have seen them in our yard, and these guys are destructive. I sent them packing into a cup of soapy water. I’ll be checking the undersides of leaves for any kind of egg masses and will be squishing or spraying them with organic neem oil.

A quick note on yellow jacket activity. As my aunt recently reminded me, yellow jackets are more active and more interested in human food this time of year. They are after the sugars in your carbohydrates–watch out for your picnics! Resist the urge to shoo them away. If they are interested in your food, it’s usually wisest to let them investigate and do their thing. Yellow jackets are pollinators but are quick to get defensive and are willing to chase after you. Just be cautious and aware out in the yard.

Alright, I’m excited to report that I’m getting to harvest a few things. My okra has a couple of fruits ready (and their gorgeous flowers are nearly ready to open!). My shallots will get yanked once the rain stops, so I can dry them properly (it’s very important to dry them, so they will store through the winter). If you’re looking for instructions on growing and storing onions, click here to download Nashua Farmers’ instructions!

My tomatillos are pushing out their papery lanterns, which means I will be harvesting them in the next few weeks. Salsa verde, here we come! Not to mention, it’s blueberry picking time at my house, but we have to beat the birds to it. I also see Blueberry Buckle in my future–a family favorite dessert in our house that doubles as an acceptable breakfast.

On to what’s blooming! My little celosias are starting to bud their flame-red blooms, as are my New York asters. My mint has started flowering, and my bees and butterflies are in heaven! My mint patches are simply covered with them; they seem to hum and sway on their own accord.

An exciting discovery: a lone strawflower plant survived! I thought they all died in the heat, but this tenacious survivor is thriving, and its flowers are so unusually cool! Still flowering are my stunning Black Watchmen hollyhocks, lovely daylilies, swamp verbena, and the hydrangeas are just holding on! And there’s so much Queen Anne’s Lace blooming all over–I love how delicate they are.

That wraps up this week’s report–enjoy your break from watering! Until next week, go play in the dirt–or enjoy some of the seasonal fruit at your local farm stand! I’ve got my eye on peaches next!

Kate Ratta is the manager of the local feed store Nashua Farmers' Exchange, Inc. She has more than 10 years of experience working in the business owned by her aunt and uncle, Judy Ratta-Harrington and Gene Harrington, and will be contributing weekly garden reports. The store is located at 38½ Bridge Street in Nashua in the converted Boston & Maine and Concord Railroad station.

The story of The Tempest centers around the character of Prospero, the exiled Duke of Milan, and how he reacts to being trapped on an island.  He conjures up a violent storm in an attempt to regain his throne.

"I love Shakespeare," Wisneski says.  "I wrote my dissertation about the relevance of Shakespeare today.  We are looking at magic versus technology in this play.  What I'm trying to show the audience is this: How far is too far in the pursuit of knowledge?  The main character, Prospero, does what he thinks is correct, but he's using technology for reasons that are not great.  For this play, the technology is the use of magic.  This parallels the use of artificial intelligence of today.  It's an increasingly relevant topic."

Prospero is brought to life by actor Colin Principe, who most recently starred in Nashua Theatre Guild's spring production, The Littlefield Gazette Does Not End Today.  

"I love Shakespeare," Principe says.  "I've always wanted a lead role, and I'm happy to be in this play.  I'm very thankful to Val, our director.  Prospero has a lot of lines, and one of the challenges is remembering the order of the words in Elizabethan English.  But the cast says I'm doing great.  So are they.  I love working with them."

Andrea Hansgen, one of the actors playing Ariel, agrees with Principe.  "Rehearsal has been so much fun, and very collaborative.  Val has good ideas.  Her vision is so beautiful."

Appearing with Nashua Theatre Guild for the first time is Jenna Costa Deedy, who stepped into the role of Boatswain the ship officer.  The transition from cosplayer to actor was a natural one for her, and she has enjoyed bringing a new role to life.  "This is an art form just like cosplaying."

"She's so enthusiastic about it," says her sister Janis.  "It's nice.  We used to do dance together, but this is the first time we've ever worked together in a play."

Catherine Sweet, playing the role of Sebastian, has loved Shakespeare since childhood.  "My family used to take me to go watch Shakespeare in a park in Cape Cod," she recalls.  When I was three, I got called up on stage to play the role of Puck, and that made me fall in love with Shakespeare.  I love The Tempest.  It's been a lot of fun meeting new people and acting in something new."

The Tempest is free and runs on Fridays and Saturdays from July 31 to August 8 at Greeley Park, 100 Concord Street, Nashua.  Bring a chair or blanket and some snacks and enjoy Nashua Theatre Guild's annual Shakespeare in the Park.

Friday, July 31:  7:00pm

Saturday, August 1:  2:00 and 7:00pm

Friday, August 7:  7:00pm

Saturday, August 8:  2:00 and 7:00pm

 It’s been a stormy week but we here at DNA count ourselves lucky that it was a beautiful night for the Nashua Summer Stroll last Saturday. Main Street was alive and jumping with live performances, good food, and fabulous vendors of all kinds. We saw lots of kids (and adults!) taking advantage of the roller skating rink. It was nostalgic, in a way, of the block parties of years past, with people of all kinds within the community coming together to enjoy a summer evening and simple pleasures. We couldn’t have been happier and are already looking forward to next year.

Hopefully, you’re returning to the Downtown area to dine, shop, and take in some entertainment.

Take a look below at the fun things going on this week.

Stay sunny and I’ll see ya Downtown!
Elaina Bedio, Downtown Nashua Association 

Thursday 7/30

5:00PM: Pokémon League Night at Grave Troll Games

5:00PM: Buck-a-Shuck Oysters at The Pearl

5:30PM: Joe Winslow at Union Public House

7:00PM: Author Amy Virginia Evans at Nashua Public Library

7:00PM: Buzztime Trivia at Odd Fellows Brewing Co

7:30PM: Open Mic Night at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

7:30PM: Trivia Night at Liquid Therapy

 Friday 7/31

7:30AM: Sacred Start at Vibe Yoga

12:30PM: Fryday: Fried specials all day at Soel Sistas Café

3:00PM: Free Drop-in Painting class at ArtHub Downtown Gallery

7:00PM: The Tempest at Greeley Park

7:30PM: Rebecca Turmel at Union Public House

8:00PM: EagleMania - Eagles Tribute Band at Nashua Center for the Arts

9:30PM: Karoake Dance Party at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

 Saturday 8/1

10:30AM: Strugglebus Improv Jam at Nashua Public Library

2:00PM: The Tempest at Greeley Park

6:00PM: Vermont Lake Monsters at Nashua Silver Knights

7:00PM: The Tempest at Greeley Park

7:30PM: Jordan Quinn at Union Public House

7:30PM: Christian Champagne & the Kind Souls at 

               Renaissance Park

8:00PM: Lucas Zelnick at Nashua Center for the Arts

8:00PM: Sugarbush at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

 Sunday 8/2

10:00AM: Nashua Farmers Market

3:00PM: Dan Morgan at Stella Blu (patio)

6:00PM: Sunday Evening Karaoke at The Spot

 Monday 8/3

6:00PM: Norwich Sea Unicorns at Nashua Silver Knights

8:00PM: Tipsy Bingo at The Peddler's Daughter

 Tuesday 8/4

5:00PM: Tacos & Tequila at Stella Blu

7:00PM: Trivia at The Peddler's Daughter

8:00PM: Music Bingo at Fody's Tavern

 Wednesday 8/5

5:30PM: Seth Connelly at Union Public House

7:00PM: Free Movie Night at The Spot

8:00PM: Trivia at Fody's Tavern

NASHUA, NH - United Way of Greater Nashua is making it easier than ever for community members to support local neighbors in need by hosting a special Drive-Through Shoe Donation Event on Tuesday, August 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the United Way office, located at 20 Broad Street in Nashua.

Alec’s shoes, a sponsor of the event, will provide a coupon for 10% off one pair of shoes at their Nashua store, for those donating shoes at the drive-through event.

The event is part of United Way's first-ever Summer Shoe Drive, benefiting the Greater Nashua Shoe Fund. Community members are encouraged to donate gently used shoes of all sizes for children, adults, and seniors.

Participants can simply drive into the United Way parking lot, where volunteers will be on hand to collect donations directly from vehicles, providing a quick and convenient way to contribute.

"Many of us have gently used shoes sitting in our closets that we no longer wear," said Mike Apfelberg, President of United Way of Greater Nashua. "This drive-through event makes it easy to turn those unused shoes into something meaningful for a neighbor in need. A donated pair of shoes could help a young person starting a new job, someone managing health conditions, or a family facing financial challenges."

The Greater Nashua Shoe Fund provides footwear to local residents throughout the year, helping address a basic but essential need that can impact employment, health, education, and overall well-being.

"We know people are busy," Apfelberg added. "By creating a simple drive-through donation experience, we're making it easier than ever for community members to get involved. Every pair of shoes donated helps someone take their next step forward."

The Summer Shoe Drive runs through August 31 and features collection bins at locations throughout Greater Nashua, including:

• United Way of Greater Nashua
• Nashua Senior Activity Center
• Hudson Senior Center
• Crunch Fitness
• Sky Meadow Country Club
• Gate City Casino
• Nashua Bingo
• Nashua Telegraph
• YMCA of Greater Nashua
• Nash Casino
• Nashua Community College
• Southern NH Health
• Pheasant Lane Mall
• Merrimack Premium Outlets
• Club Pilates
• Alec's Shoes
• Nashua Coins and Collectibles
• Merrimack County Savings Bank
• Control Air
• Amherst Wellness Center

United Way extends its appreciation to McLaughlin Transportation and Alec’s shoes sponsors of the Summer Shoe Drive, for helping make this community initiative possible.

Those unable to donate shoes may support the Greater Nashua Shoe Fund through an online contribution at: https://givebutter.com/greater-nashua-shoe-fund

For more information about the Drive-Through Shoe Donation Event or the Summer Shoe Drive, visit: https://unitedwaynashua.org/event/shoes/

or contact United Way of Greater Nashua at www.unitedwaynashua.org or (603) 882-4011.

About United Way of Greater Nashua

United Way of Greater Nashua brings together people, organizations, and resources to address the community's most pressing needs. Through initiatives like the Greater Nashua Shoe Fund, United Way works to improve health, financial stability, and access to essential resources for individuals and families throughout the Greater Nashua region.

United Way of Greater Nashua is an independent 510(c)3 nonprofit founded in 1929 to serve the residents of Greater Nashua. Its mission is to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. United Way of Greater Nashua has received GuideStar and Charity Navigator’s top ratings for accountability, transparency, and financial management. For more information or to get involved as a donor or volunteer, please email United Way of Greater Nashua at, info@unitedwaynashua.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaynashua.org. 

“I said from day one that we would not let our North Country or any beautiful area of our state become a dumping ground for out-of-state trash,” said Governor Ayotte. “With this new law, we’re giving communities a voice in the landfill siting process and protecting New Hampshire’s environment. I was proud to deliver this win for our North Country, and I thank the legislators and advocates who came together to make it happen.”

“The North Country Alliance for Balanced Change applauds the enactment of HB 707 and recognizes the landmark protections it offers not only to the North Country but to communities statewide,” said Wayne Morrison, NCABC President. “This milestone landfill siting legislation would not have been possible without the strong support of Governor Ayotte and the persistent efforts of both the House and Senate to find common ground. This is a significant step in delivering much needed solid waste reform.”

“From the very beginning, Governor Ayotte understood what was at stake for the North Country and stood with us to protect Forest Lake State Park from becoming a dumping ground for out-of-state trash,” said Senator David Rochefort of Littleton. “She made this issue a priority, worked alongside our communities to get this legislation across the finish line, and delivered on her promises by signing HB 707 into law. This is a major victory for the North Country and for local communities across New Hampshire, and I look forward to working with Governor Ayotte and my colleagues in Concord to protect our state's natural beauty for generations to come.”

“Today’s ceremonial signing reflects months of thoughtful collaboration and bipartisan compromise,” said Senator Howard Pearl of Loudon. “HB 707 gives New Hampshire a balanced statewide approach that secures our future without sacrificing our values. I want to thank Governor Ayotte for her leadership in advocating for this legislation, as well as everyone who contributed to this important effort.

At 3:35 p.m., Wednesday, July 29, 2026, State Troopers assigned to the Troop A barracks responded to a report of a crash involving a tractor-trailer and a van on Route 101 westbound, near mile marker 62.4, in Auburn.

The preliminary investigation determined that a 2022 Ford T-350 van was in the left lane of the highway when the driver, identified as Pedro Cruz, 31, of Manchester, lost control. The van entered the right lane of the highway and collided with a 2027 Freightliner tractor-trailer driven by Timothy Lake, 47, of Lancaster, PA. The crash forced both vehicles off the right side of the highway, into the nearby woods. Investigators ultimately determined that Cruz was traveling too fast for the wet road conditions prior to the crash.

Cruz and Lake were transported to an area hospital to be evaluated for minor injuries. Cruz was cited for a violation of speeding – existing conditions.

The right lane of the highway was closed for seven hours while extensive efforts to recover and remove both vehicles took place. The road was fully reopened at 11:20 p.m.

Troopers were assisted by members of the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office, the Auburn, Candia, and Derry fire departments, as well as the New Hampshire Department of Transportation.

All aspects of the crash remain under investigation. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Trooper Seth Parker at Seth.W.Parker@dos.nh.gov.

AAUP-UNH's Executive Committee voted to declare impasse after months of negotiations produced little movement on major economic issues, including salaries and health insurance. The union says administration proposals offer no salary increase for the period during which negotiations stalled and only modest increases afterward. According to the union, these proposals fall behind comparable institutions and threaten UNH's ability to recruit and retain high-quality faculty.

"Our negotiating team brought forward practical proposals that recognize economic realities while strengthening the university," said Maeve Dion, Chief Negotiator for AAUP-UNH. "Faculty have endured years of inflation and rising costs, paired with shrinking university support staff and increased workload. They deserve a contract that respects faculty work and supports the excellent teaching, research, and mentoring that nurture students and contribute meaningfully to the state of New Hampshire."

The union argues that faculty compensation and working conditions have become increasingly important as UNH experiences significant turnover among tenure-track faculty. According to AAUP-UNH, the tenure-track faculty body is expected to lose 67 colleagues between May 2026 and May 2027, at which point the bargaining unit will have approximately 30 percent fewer members than it did a decade ago.

"Faculty are the heart of the student experience," said AAUP-UNH President Julia Rodriguez. "When the university asks fewer faculty members to do more work while offering compensation that does not keep pace with costs, it puts educational quality, student support, and the institution's future at risk."

AAUP-UNH leaders also expressed frustration with what they describe as repeated delays in responding to union proposals. The union notes that administration representatives expressed interest in faculty proposals on retirement incentives and salary-based health insurance contributions but have not yet presented formal counterproposals. For one such proposal introduced in May 2025, the administration conceded it had only begun seriously studying the proposal this spring and indicated that they will not have their analysis completed and ready for the negotiating table until 2027.

Such delayed attention to proposals and the substantive distance remaining between the parties on economic matters led to the decision to declare impasse. AAUP-UNH and the university administration will now participate in mediation through the New Hampshire Public Employee Labor Relations Board. If mediation does not produce an agreement, the process may advance to fact-finding. The union says it remains committed to reaching a fair contract that supports both faculty and the university community.

AAUP-UNH, a chapter of the American Association of University Professors, advocates for fair working conditions, academic freedom, shared governance, and high-quality public higher education at the University of New Hampshire. The chapter works to ensure that faculty have the resources and support necessary to provide outstanding teaching, research, and service to students and the people of New Hampshire.

The American Association of University Professors (AAUP), with more than 44,000 members and 500 local chapters, champions academic freedom, advances shared governance, and organizes to promote economic security for academic professionals. Since 1915, the AAUP has helped shape American higher education through standards and practices that support educational quality and professional integrity.

NASHUA, N.H. —Southern New Hampshire Health’s walk-in Immediate Care locations are now only the second urgent care group in the state to be accredited by the Commission on Ambulatory and Urgent Care Quality (CAUCQ).

The national recognition was earned after an in-person, onsite survey in April, where a specialized evaluation team confirmed Southern NH Health’s dedication to safety and commitment to quality care for patients and employees.

All 5 of Southern NH Health’s walk-in Immediate Care locations were included and accredited during the process for the scope of services they each provide, including for telehealth care.

To date, CAUCQ has only accredited 141 urgent care centers across New England, putting Southern NH Health’s walk-in Immediate Care facilities among a select group. Representatives from CAUCQ said “the accreditation affirms your commitment to providing quality care, focused patient safety and excellent clinical outcomes.”

“Being in this select group shows how seriously Southern New Hampshire Health takes the quality of our care,” said Rebecca Cooper-Piela, SVP and Chief Quality Officer at Southern New Hampshire Health. “We are dedicated to serving patients in every setting, from primary to specialty care, emergency to immediate care, and this is just another example of how we serve the community.”

Overview of Southern NH Health Immediate Care:

• 5 locations serving southern NH and northern MA

•On site x-ray and testing for conditions such as strep, flu, COVID, mono, and STIs

•Connected care with Foundation Medical Partners Primary Care, Specialists, and Southern NH Medical Center

The accrediting body also awarded the organization an Antibiotic Stewardship Commendation for meeting the additional requirements associated with the responsible use of antibiotics.

In addition to traditional in-person care, the CAUCQ separately recognized and accredited Southern NH Health’s virtual care option. This service allows patients to access care through our Immediate Care website and see a provider who is part of our health system.

Southern New Hampshire Health Immediate Care locations:

• Immediate Care Hudson, 300 Derry Road, Hudson NH

• Immediate Care Pelham, 33 Windham Rd. Pelham, NH

• Immediate Care South Nashua, 112 Spit Brook Rd., Nashua, NH

• Immediate Care West Campus, 29 Northwest Blvd., Nashua, NH

• Immediate Care Pepperell- 68 Main St., Pepperell, MA

The “Music from the Movies” performance by Rock Voices and its band, features a fun, crowd-pleasing lineup spanning several decades, including songs by Peter Gabriel, HUNTR/X, Simon & Garfunkel, ABBA, Phil Collins, Carly Simon, Bee Gees, Bob Seger, John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John, Kenny Loggins, Adele, Paul McCartney, and more!

The afternoon concert also features a selection of valuable gift baskets that are being raffled off. Proceeds from the raffle are being generously donated by Rock Voices to Nashua Children’s Home, helping to support the organization’s mission of providing residential care, stability, education, and supportive services to children and young adults in need.

“We are incredibly grateful to Rock Voices for choosing Nashua Children’s Home as a beneficiary of this exciting concert,” said Matt Fentross, Executive Director of Nashua Children’s Home. “It is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together through music while raising awareness and support for the children and young adults we serve.”

 Concert Details:

Rock Voices Nashua Presents “Music from the Movies”

Sunday, August 9, 2026, 4:00 p.m.

Hollis Brookline High School

24 Cavalier Court, Hollis, NH 03049

Ticket pricing (including fees): Adults $23.18, Seniors $17.85, Students $12.51.

Tickets are being sold by Rock Voices at: Tickets are available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rock-voices-nashua-presents-music-from-the-movies-tickets-1992445545261.

About Rock Voices:

Rock Voices is a community choir for adults that sings exclusively rock music. With a mission of “healing ourselves and others through song,” Rock Voices is committed to making a difference in the community through the joy of singing. More information about Rock Voices (Nashua) is at: https://rockvoices.com/choir_location/nashua-nh/.  

About Nashua Children’s Home:

Nashua Children’s Home, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, has been serving youth and families in Greater Nashua, NH for more than a century. Nashua Children’s Home is committed to providing care and stability to boys and girls who are unable to remain with their families, special education services for students who have not been successful in public school settings, and supportive housing for youth who have “aged-out” of care.

Throughout the afternoon and evening, attendees wandered car‑free blocks, listened to live bands on multiple stages, and stopped into shops offering sidewalk sales and special promotions. Local eateries and food trucks served up everything from casual street fare to sit‑down dining, with outdoor seating spilling onto the sidewalks to take advantage of the summer weather.

In addition to live music, the Stroll featured kids’ activities, pop‑up vendors, and booths highlighting community organizations and nonprofits, giving residents a chance to learn more about local services and initiatives. The Downtown Nashua Association uses the event not only as a mid‑summer celebration, but to reinforce downtown’s identity as a vibrant, walkable destination and to strengthen ties between merchants, performers and the wider community.

According to DNA executive Alyssa O’Mara an estimated crowd of about 4,000 made their way downtown for the event.

“This years summer stroll was another fantastic celebration of our downtown community. While we had about the same number of vendors as last year, we introduced some exciting new activities that were a huge hit,” she said.

“It was wonderful to see families enjoying the spin art, people lacing up for the roller-skating rink, and crowds throughout downtown dancing and singing along with our incredible musicians.”

“Summer Stroll is one of our biggest events of the year, and seeing so many people out enjoying everything downtown has to offer makes all the hard work worthwhile.  We are incredibly grateful our volunteers, sponsors, performers, vendors, and especially the City of Nashua for their partnership and support in making this event such a success.”

At 5:16 p.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026, Marine Patrol Officers and State Troopers assigned to the Troop B barracks responded to a report of a boat crash with serious injuries on the Merrimack River in Hudson.

The preliminary investigation determined that the victim, identified as Erick H. Machado, 31, of Nashua, was on a personal watercraft when it collided with the rear of a pontoon boat. Machado entered the water and was struck by the pontoon boat's propeller, causing severe injuries to his legs.

The occupants of the pontoon boat immediately called 9-1-1, while bystanders operating another personal watercraft assisted in bringing Machado aboard another boat. He was transported to shore, where first responders from the Hudson police and fire departments started emergency lifesaving efforts. However, Machado succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

At this time, the death is not believed to be suspicious. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.

Marine Patrol Officers and Troopers were assisted at the scene by members of the Hudson police and fire departments, and the New Hampshire Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

 Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Trooper First Class Micah Jones at Micah.A.Jones@dos.nh.gov or (603) 724-8026

Recognized annually, World Drowning Prevention Day calls attention to drowning as a preventable public health issue. This year’s theme, “Unite to Turn the Tide,” encouraged communities to work together through swim instruction, water safety education, active supervision and emergency preparedness. More than 300,000 young people die from drowning each year worldwide, making it one of the leading causes of death among children ages 5 to 14.

"At the YMCA of Greater Nashua, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn lifesaving water safety skills," said Nae Theberge, Aquatics Director at the YMCA. "World Drowning Prevention Day is an opportunity to remind families that learning to swim is so much more than just a recreational activity. Swimming is an essential life skill that builds confidence and prevents tragedy." 

As part of the day's activities, the Y’s Merrimack branch hosted free swim lessons where participants learned critical water safety skills including safe water entry and exit, self-rescue techniques, swimming to safety, and other foundational practices designed to help prevent drowning.

Additionally, Wesley’s Way Foundation joined the YMCA at the event to help promote the importance of water safety. Founded in memory of Wesley Belisle, the nonprofit provides charitable and educational support in southern New Hampshire and the Outer Banks, with a focus on ocean-safety awareness, literacy and education, community improvement, and assistance for children and families in need. “We’re a small nonprofit that started in memory of my son, Wesley Belisle, who passed away in 2018 after an accident at the beach,” said Derek Belisle, Wesley’s father and president of Wesley’s Way Foundation. Belisle also presented the YMCA with a $3,000 donation to help provide swim lessons for children who might not otherwise have access.

The day concluded with the Y’s inaugural “For the Love of the Y Duck Race”, a community fundraiser supporting YMCA programs that strengthen children and families throughout Greater Nashua. For this event, community members could adopt a duck for a $10 donation – and each adopted duck then raced across the Merrimack YMCA pool with the top 3 finishers receiving prizes.

If you would like to help the Y create more opportunities that give every child the chance to feel safe and successful around water, visit our website at https://nmymcagive26.funraise.org/.  Together, we can ensure more children have access to experiences that build confidence, strengthen skills, and create brighter futures.

Since September 2025, the Nashua Police Department has been assigned several National Center for Missing and Exploited Children CyberTips by the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Each of the CyberTips reported different accounts and IP addresses.

Investigators assigned to the Cybercrimes Against Children Unit applied for several search warrant applications, which were granted, and were able to identify the suspect as Ullah. A search warrant for Ullah’s residence, person, and vehicle was applied for and granted. The search warrant was executed, and several electronic devices were seized.

Evidence of Possession and Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Images was located on the devices.

Ullah was held without bail and will be arraigned at the 9^th Circuit District Division Nashua Court on July 27, 2026 at 1:00 pm.

If anyone has further information regarding this case, please call the Nashua Police Department Crime Line at 603-589-1665.

Responders initially had a difficult time locating it until a person waved down a retired Hudson Firefighter on Sagamore Park Road. Responders located a man who had been brought to the shore on the Hudson side of the river. The man was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Several people called 911, some reporting a second injured person had been transported by private vehicle to a hospital, but that has not been confirmed.

Initial information gathered at the scene was that a Jet Ski came in contact with the back of a boat, and the propeller struck the man.

NHSP Marine Patrol was summoned to the scene, and they are the lead investigation unit handling the case.

As of 8:25 p.m., the body remained at the scene awaiting the Medical Examiner's Office to arrive.

 Monday, July 27, 2026

• Historic District Commission
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Room 208, 2nd Floor, 229 Main Street
• Special Board of Aldermen - Public Hearing
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: 229 Main Street
• Budget Review Committee
  • Time: 7:15 PM (or immediately following the Special Board of Aldermen)
  • Location: 229 Main Street

Thursday, July 30, 2026

• Board of Public Works Meeting
  • Time: 4:00 PM
  • Location: DPW Administration Building

Friday, July 31, 2026

• Greater Nashua Revolving Loan Fund
  • Time: 8:30 AM
  • Location: Room 208, 229 Main Street
• Board of Public Works Retirement System Trustees
  • Time: 10:30 AM
  • Location: City Meeting Location / DPW

City meetings frequently provide public access and are generally held at City Hall located at 229 Main Street.

If you'd like to review the agendas, minutes, or check for any last-minute schedule changes, let me know if you want details for a specific board, or visit the Nashua Public Hearings Directory and City of Nashua Agendas Portal to see the full list of posting

Official Live Streams (Web Browsers)

You can watch gavel-to-gavel live streams of city operations directly through the CTV Live Streams Portal on the City of Nashua Website:

• Board of Aldermen & Infrastructure Committees: Watch on the Government TV 16 Live Stream.
• School Board & Education Committees: Watch on the Nashua ETV Live Stream.

YouTube Channels (Live & Archived Recordings)

If you miss a live broadcast, the city categorizes and uploads meeting archives onto dedicated YouTube channels:

• Board of Aldermen & City Subcommittees: Available on the Nashua BOA Meetings YouTube Channel.
• Board of Education & School Committees: Available on the Nashua BOE Meetings YouTube Channel.
• General Educational & Community Programming: Available on the Nashua ETV YouTube Channel and Nashua Public Television Channel 6.

Over 60 animals live on the farm-cows,chickens,pigs,goats,donkeys,ducks,rabbits and cats, Oh my!  You can visit the animals in the barnyard daily between 9:00am- 4:00pm. They are cared for by volunteers and staff. You may see them grazing up in the pasture or pass by them as you walk around the property. This is not a petting zoo, but the animals are very friendly.

The walking paths and roads are mostly dirt and gravel covered. There is a Loop Trail that starts at the farm and takes you to a beaver pond through forests and fields and there is access to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy, where you can hike and snowshoe in the winter. 

The educational programs and events that they offer are impressive. Whether it's storytime with the animals, summer camp, gardening classes, farm explorers—to name a few— all these programs help further their mission of sharing the rich agricultural heritage of New Hampshire with the next generation. You will find a list of programs on their website.

The farm is just a thirty-minute drive from Nashua. Joppa Hill Educational Farm is free to enter, but they do suggest a cash or Venmo donation of $5 per family. Dogs must be leashed. Stop into the farmstand while you're there. It is open daily from 9am-6pm. If you're looking for a nearby adventure for the whole family, this is the place.

The Nashua Center for Lifelong Learning offers community enrichment courses, personal interest classes and adult education programs held at Nashua High School North and Nashua High School South.

“The graduates are a unique group; they are both younger than traditional graduates and older than traditional graduates,” said Jacalyn Lesser, director of adult education for the Nashua Center for Lifelong Learning. “Some are born in the United States, some are immigrants from other countries. Some are earning a high school equivalency diploma, some are traditional high school diplomas, and some are the adult ed diploma.”

Regan Lamphier, clerk of the Board of Education, addressed the graduates. “You deserve to be recognized for your success, which is why we are all here to honor you tonight,” Lamphier said. “It takes a lot of courage to go back to school as an adult. It’s really hard to juggle work and responsibilities at home, never mind school. Every one of you had to overcome many obstacles and worked twice as hard to get here. I admire and respect your bravery, your resilience and your determination.”

Student speaker Mateo Marin, Class of 2026, described the significant challenges he faced before returning to school. “The moral of this speech is me trying to get you to understand that no matter how hard life gets, as long as you persevere, you will succeed,” Marin said. “It all takes time. Don’t let your past define you. Define yourself as the person you want to be.”

Jennifer Bishop, president of the Board of Education, was among the city and school officials attending the ceremony, held in the Nashua High School North auditorium. “These are the kids that work the hardest to get their high school diploma,” Bishop said. “We cheer and we hurrah for all of the other kids, but these students work ten times harder, and they need to be celebrated. It’s amazing to see. I think one of the things that we forget is that the school district is here for all students, and we want to make sure that everybody succeeds in whatever manner is best for them. We’re able to tailor our resources to meet the kids where they’re at.”

Lesser said one of the most important features of the program is its focus on encouragement. “One of our most fundamental approaches is to provide hope,” she said. “It doesn’t matter how long it’s going to take you. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing one credit at a time. It doesn’t matter if you got off track for a couple of years and you’re coming back. We can get you to cross that finish line if you want to get there.”

The new building is scheduled to be completed in mid-September, when renovations of the existing clinic facility are expected to begin. The Humane Society team will set up a temporary office in the training area of the new building until March 2027, when rehabilitation work on the 50-year-old clinic is slated to be finished.

Harvey Construction is the construction manager for the nearly $10 million project, which was designed by Warren Street Architects. Once completed, the project will roughly double the size of the society’s facilities and significantly expand its service offerings.

Building a new structure attached to an existing facility that had to remain in operation presented unique challenges.

“Keeping them open and keeping them safe was part of the logistics of the project,” said Harvey Construction project manager Mike Marios, who leads the work. “We restricted them to a very minimal amount of space and parking, and they've been getting through it. It's a two-way street and they've been phenomenal to work for.”

The renovation and expansion of the humane care center is a response to increased demand for services, a growing population and the high cost of pet health care. The clinic has faced a constant backlog for surgical services and often must postpone appointments because of high demand. With lower overhead in the new facility, staff expect to offer veterinary services to low- and moderate-income pet owners at 40% to 50% below market rates.

There is now room to house a larger population of animals, with special holding areas for quarantine and a small animal room with offices for adoption and surrendering. The kennels are designed to be easy to clean and to allow animals to be housed individually to reduce stress. Mechanical systems are designed to maintain air quality and minimize the spread of disease.

The building features a large behavioral training area that can be divided into large and small group spaces as needed. Staff plan to offer an expanded schedule of affordable training classes.

The new surgical suites will have viewing windows and discreet access.

“The shelter animals will have their own treatment room,” said Jennifer LeBlanc, director of partnerships and corporate gifts. “We'll be able to take them from the back hallway into their treatment room and not have them going throughout the rest of the clinic.”

“We're going to be able to watch the surgeries happening through the glass doors without getting in the way of the surgery to check on the animals,” she said. “Being able to observe procedures without compromising the animal’s safety is a wonderful feature.”

The expanded capacity in both space and programs is expected to serve:

• 2,500 owned pets in the affordable veterinary clinic
• 2,500 pet cats and dogs receiving vaccinations
• 1,800 family cats and dogs spayed or neutered through the affordable clinic
• 1,500 people who take behavioral classes with their dogs

Founded in 1900, the nonprofit has served the Nashua community for more than 125 years. The Humane Society for Greater Nashua offers animal surrender and adoption services, veterinary care, affordable spay and neuter surgeries, vaccine clinics, canine training classes, kids’ programs and burial and cremation services. The organization has a staff of 22 employees, a 16-member volunteer board and a team of dedicated volunteers.

Applications are open from July 24, 2026 through October 16, 2026.

Apply here: Livable Nashua Energy Coaching Intake Form

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Own a home located in Nashua, New Hampshire.
• Live in the home as their primary residence.
• Meet the eligibility requirements for a NHSaves Home Energy Assessment.

How the Process Works

Submitting an application is the first step toward participating in the program.

1. Complete the online application during the application period.
2. Applicants will be screened for eligibility for a NHSaves Home Energy Assessment.
3. Homeowners who qualify for NHSaves will receive a no-cost professional Home Energy Assessment (energy audit) conducted by Resilient Buildings Group.
4. Applicants who complete the energy audit and meet the pilot program requirements will be considered for selection into the Livable Nashua Energy Coaching Pilot.

Selected participants will receive personalized one-on-one energy coaching to help them understand their energy audit results, identify available rebates and incentives, prioritize home energy improvements, and navigate the process of completing energy-saving upgrades.

The Livable Nashua Energy Coaching Pilot is designed to help homeowners lower energy bills, improve home comfort, increase resilience, and make the most of available energy efficiency incentives while helping the City develop future programs that benefit the entire Nashua community.

"I am honored to receive the endorsement of MAHA Action," said Lily Tang Williams. "It should not be controversial to realize that Americans should all be healthier. Over the last few decades, really disturbing negative trends have emerged as it relates to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions plaguing Americans. As a mother and someone who escaped Communist China, I believe Americans deserve honest information, medical freedom, government transparency, and the ability to make healthcare decisions without coercion from Washington."

MAHA Action stated: “MAHA Action is proud to endorse Lily Tang Williams for New Hampshire’s 2nd Congressional District. We cannot fix America’s chronic disease crisis without fixing the corruption that fuels it. She is committed to ending corruption, increasing transparency, and restoring accountability so government works for the American people instead of special interests.”

"Together with decisive action, we will Make America Healthy Again — it’s so critical to our quality of life as Americans and our strength abroad,” said Williams. “This should not be a partisan issue.”

About Lily Tang Williams

Born in China just before Mao’s Cultural Revolution to working-class parents, Lily Tang Williams immigrated to the United States with nothing and built a life as an entrepreneur, educator, and community leader in Weare, NH. A living embodiment of the American Dream, she brings a uniquely powerful perspective to the fight for freedom and limited government.

In 2024, Williams won the Republican nomination and captured 47% of the general election vote against current incumbent Maggie Goodlander — coming closer than any Republican has in more than a decade to flipping NH-02. She is back and running stronger than ever in 2026.

NASHUA, NH - The Nash Casino, New Hampshire’s largest charitable gaming venue, presented $2.4 million – the largest recorded charitable contribution in state history – to 12 New Hampshire nonprofit organizations on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. This unprecedented amount was accumulated from the combined revenues generated by games of chance, historical horse racing machines and video lottery terminals during the month of June and breaks The Nash’s previous record of $2.3 million in charitable contributions generated in March 2026.

“We at The Nash could not be happier that these worthy nonprofits, each caring for their communities through their various missions, can benefit from our record-setting month of charitable contributions,” said The Nash General Manager Eric Althaus. “We are always looking for ways to be more inclusive and partner with more nonprofits.”

The Nash has continued its hot streak of generating more than $2 million for charitable partners each month for four consecutive months. In the past 16 months, the venue has generated $28.3 million for New Hampshire nonprofits.

In December, The Nash began offering five-day weeks to partnering nonprofits, down from seven days, in order to significantly increase the number of nonprofits served.

• Advocates Building Lasting Equality in NH: $228,984.00
• James E. Coffey American Legion Post 3: $228,984.00
• Nashua Community Music School: $211,685.22
• NH Breast Cancer Coalition: $211,685.22
• Milford Jr. Spartans Youth Football and Cheer: $210,496.38
• New Hampshire Hispanic Scholarship Fund $210,496.38
• Animal Welfare Alliance Rescue & Education of NH: $204,598.30
• Merrimack Concert Association: $204,598.30
• Hudson Community Food Pantry: $196,190.68
• Greater Nashua Mental Health Center/Community Council of Nashua: $196,190.68
• Friends of Benson Park: $195,020.78
• Nashua Community Arts: $195,020.78

Maureen Ryan, chief operating officer of the Greater Nashua Mental Health Center, said these funds help to support the $1.5 million in uncompensated care they deliver annually. This comes at a critical time, after their Amherst Street facility was destroyed as a result of a natural gas explosion and fire in February.

“We serve over 5,000 patients each year,” Ryan said. “We are grateful for the support from The Nash, ensuring thousands of community members continue to gain access to high-quality behavioral health care, regardless of their ability to pay.”

“This is a gamechanger,” said Louis Esposito, executive director of Advocates Building Lasting Equality (ABLE) in NH. “These funds will support our staff, program growth, transportation equity and education for differently abled students.”

According to state law, 35% of games of chance revenues and 8.75% of HHR machine revenues are set aside for two nonprofits assigned to each week of gaming. The combined revenues are split evenly between the two nonprofits. In addition, 10% of games of chance and 16.5% of HHR revenues are contributed to the state Education Trust Fund. New VLT revenue is taxed at 31%. Of that amount, 35% will be contributed to local charities. The remainder is contributed to the state’s General Fund, Education Trust Fund and other state programs. In the month of June, The Nash sent $2,255,058.36 to the state fund.

 For more information about The Nash visit thenashcasino.com.

About The Nash Casino: The Nash Casino, located within the Pheasant Lane Mall in Nashua, New Hampshire, is the state's largest charitable gaming venue. Spanning 130,000 square feet, it offers over 1,100 electronic games, 37 table games and 14 poker tables. Guests can enjoy DraftKings Lounge, a two-story retail sportsbook and entertainment complex, five distinct dining options — including Proper Chophouse & Cocktails, Lucky Lantern Noodle House and Woodlands Café — and the state's first Topgolf Swing Suite simulators. The Nash generated over $19.5 million in charitable contributions to 118 New Hampshire-based nonprofits in its first 12 months of operation. The Nash was developed by ECL Entertainment, a premium gaming and entertainment company based in Las Vegas, and Clairvest, a Toronto-based investment firm.

About ECL Entertainment: ECL Entertainment is a premium gaming and entertainment company based in Las Vegas and one of the foremost operators of historical horse racing machines in the United States. It operates live horse racing and several casinos with historical horse racing, including four in Kentucky, such as the Mint Gaming Hall at Kentucky Downs, as well as charitable gaming venue, The Nash Casino, in New Hampshire.

NASHUA, N.H.-The Nashua Center for the Arts announces Shaun Cassidy – UNWRAPPED: Songs & Stories For The Holidays, Safe Haven Ballet – The Nutcracker, and Judy Collins - Sweet Judy Blue Eyes: Farewell. Tickets go on sale Friday, July 24, at 10:00 am at www.NashuaCenterfortheArts.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774.

Shaun Cassidy – UNWRAPPED: Songs & Stories For The Holidays - Wednesday, December 2, at 7:30 pm

Shaun Cassidy is an American writer, producer, actor and Grammy-nominated singer. After originally making his name as a performer, Cassidy went on to create, write, and produce a number of critically acclaimed television series including AMERICAN GOTHIC (produced with Sam Raimi), ROAR (starring Heath Ledger), COLD CASE, COVER ME, THE AGENCY, INVASION, and EMERALD CITY. Cassidy recently spent five years as executive producer and writer for the hit NBC/NETFLIX series, NEW AMSTERDAM, and he is currently writing the book for a forthcoming Broadway musical. 

The son of Tony award winning actor Jack Cassidy and Academy award winner Shirley Jones (and half-brother of the late singer/actor David Cassidy), Shaun grew up in Los Angeles and New York City. While still in high school, he signed a contract with Warner Brothers records. This led to three multi-platinum albums and numerous top ten hits including the #1 DA DOO RON RON, THAT'S ROCK N' ROLL, HEY DEANIE, and DO YOU BELIEVE IN MAGIC? Cassidy received a Grammy nomination for his efforts and performed at every major arena in the country including Houston’s Astrodome and New York’s Madison Square Garden. Almost concurrently, he starred in the ABC television series THE HARDY BOYS MYSTERIES. Later, while spending over a year on Broadway acting in the hit musical BLOOD BROTHERS, Shaun wrote his first television pilot, AMERICAN GOTHIC. When the show debuted, The New York Times called it “The most original new show of the season.”

From 2020-2024, Cassidy took his self-penned music and storytelling show, THE MAGIC OFA MIDNIGHT SKY, to the stage, playing to SRO crowds nationwide, and last year, he embarked on the biggest tour of his entire career, THE ROAD TO US, thrilling audiences in almost sixty cities throughout North America. Having written and recorded two new songs to support the tour, MY FIRST CRUSH and THE LAST SONG, Shaun is excited to be back in the studio recording new material for his holiday show, UNWRAPPED. 

Shaun is grateful to make his home in the wine country of Santa Barbara with his wife, Tracey, their four children, and more animals than he can count. In collaboration with No Kid Hungry, his family produces a collection of fine wines, MY FIRST CRUSH, which donates money to feed hungry children nationwide.

For more information, go to Shauncassidy.com. and Myfirstcrush.com

Tickets for Shaun Cassidy – UNWRAPPED: Songs & Stories For The Holidays at Nashua Center for the Arts on Wednesday, December 2, at 7:30 pm go on sale Friday, July 24, at 10:00 am at www.NashuaCenterfortheArts.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774.  

Safe Haven Ballet – The Nutcracker - Sunday, December 6, at 4:30 pm

Safe Haven Ballet is thrilled to bring our spirited, full-length ballet of The Nutcracker to Nashua Center for the Arts! This dynamic performance includes all of your favorite characters including a strong-minded Clara to the eccentric Drosselmeyer, the spooky Rats, as well as our beloved Sugarplum Fairy danced by artistic director, Lissa Curtis. In the Land of Sweets you will be introduced to a variation unique to Safe Haven Ballet called The Brave American. Come sing and clap along to this spirited, patriotic piece! 

SHB is located in beautiful Portsmouth, New Hampshire and exists to offer free trauma sensitive classes to survivors of sexual/domestic violence and trauma. Many of these brave survivors will be in the production as they help bring the magic of the season to you. We would love your energetic applause!

Tickets for Safe Haven Ballet – The Nutcracker at Nashua Center for the Arts on Sunday, December 6, at 4:30 pm go on sale Friday, July 24, at 10:00 am at www.NashuaCenterfortheArts.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774. 

Judy Collins - Sweet Judy Blue Eyes: Farewell - Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 pm 

Judy Collins has long inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Six decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 55-album body of work, and heed inspiration from her spiritual discipline to thrive in the music industry for half a century. 

In 2026, Collins bids adieu to the road with her “SWEET JUDY BLUE EYES” Farewell Tour —an expansive final run across North America and beyond that gives audiences one last chance to experience her timeless voice and storytelling live. The tour follows a remarkable recent chapter: six new albums released since 2015, the artistic renaissance of Spellbound (her first album of all self-penned songs, nominated for Best Folk Album at the 2023 GRAMMY Awards), and her 2025 poetry collection Sometimes It’s Heaven: Poems of Love, Loss and Redemption—a vivid extension of the honesty and grace that have defined her enduring legacy.

Tickets for Judy Collins “Sweet Judy Blue Eyes” Farewell Tour at Nashua Center for the Arts on Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 pm go on sale Friday, July 24, at 10:00 am at www.NashuaCenterfortheArts.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774. 

NASHUA CENTER FOR THE ARTS  -The Nashua Center for the Arts is a beacon attracting residents and visitors alike. Located in the heart of Nashua’s downtown at 201 Main Street, the NCA hosts nationally touring musicians, live comedy, theatre, children’s performances, and more. The Nashua Center for the Arts features flexible seating configurations, with the ability to host events drawing 500-1,000 patrons.  

www.NashuaCenterfortheArts.com

SPECTACLE LIVE - Founded in 2012, Spectacle Live offers venue operations, booking, programming, marketing, and production services across New England from offices in Lexington, MA; Lowell, MA; and Laconia, NH. The company partners with over a dozen venues to manage facilities and promote a variety of events, including concerts, comedy, theater, and family entertainment. For more information, contact Pete Lally at plally@spectaclelive.com  or 617-531-1257. www.spectaclelive.com.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted autopsies on both Thomas and Gutekunst on the afternoon of July 21, 2026. The autopsy of Gerald Gutekunst found that his cause of death was smoke inhalation, and that the manner of death was suicide. The autopsy of Scott Thomas found that his cause of death was smoke inhalation, and the manner of death was homicide. As used by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, the term homicide is defined as the killing of one person by another.

While the investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is still pending, information available at this time does enable law enforcement investigators to make some preliminary conclusions. Based upon the information known to investigators, it appears that shortly after 3:03 A.M. on July 21, 2026, Mr. Gutekunst locked the door to his own apartment and ignited a fire inside the apartment. He did not try to escape. Investigators have reviewed communication sent by Mr. Gutekunst at the time of the fire indicating his intent to commit self-harm, and fire patterns inside the apartment indicate the fire was set intentionally. The fire spread beyond Mr. Gutekunst’s apartment to the rest of the building, causing Mr. Thomas to inhale the smoke from this fire, which caused his death. There is no indication at this time that Mr. Gutekunst specifically intended to harm Mr. Thomas by his act.

Given these facts, the Attorney General has preliminarily concluded that Gerald Gutekunst intentionally committed an act of arson inside his apartment in an act of self-harm, and that this act recklessly caused the death of Scott Thomas under circumstances manifesting an extreme indifference to the value of human life. Because Mr. Gutekunst did not survive, criminal charges may not be brought for Gutekunst causing Scott Thomas’ death.

Fire Marshal Toomey would like to remind our citizens that this event highlights how arson is not a victimless crime, and that any intentionally set fire puts in motion a series of events that significantly jeopardizes the safety of both the public and our First Responders. Nationwide, every year, intentionally set fires cause over 400 deaths, 1,300 injuries, and $1.3 billion dollars in direct property damage.

Finally, all citizens in crisis are reminded that they can call, text or chat with trained crisis counselors any time, any day, by calling the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

No further information is expected to be released at this time

Building on the overwhelming popularity of the synthetic ice rink at the 2025 Winter Stroll, DNA is bringing a roller rink, complete with free skate rentals, to Main Street this summer. Other interactive features include spin art bikes, spin art records, and splatter painting, giving visitors a chance to create their own take-home art pieces. Local nonprofit Positive Street Art will host the splatter paint activity and bring back the fan-favorite chalk car for community members of all ages to decorate.

The Stroll will also showcase a talented lineup of local musicians, featuring performances by School of Rock Nashua and Ruby Shabazz & Fee the Evolutionist on the corner of Main and East Pearl Streets.

A variety of vendors will line Main Street, offering a wide selection of delicious options, including local food trucks, refreshing drinks, sweet treats, and classic fair foods. For a full vendor list, visit the DNA website linked below.

Looking ahead, DNA’s fall lineup includes Coloring Main Street in September and the Main Street Monster Mash in October, followed by seasonal favorites such as the Festival of Trees, Main Street Unwrapped, Plaid Friday, and the annual Winter Stroll later in the year.

The Nashua Summer Stroll will take place on Main Street from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday evening. Please note that Main Street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event from Factory Street/Temple Street to Eldridge Street.

For full event details, schedules, and an interactive map, visit https://downtownnashua.org/summer-stroll/.

At approximately 3:26 a.m. on July 21, 2026, the Nashua Fire Department and Nashua Police Department responded to 19 Orange Street for a reported fire inside an apartment building. Upon arrival, eight of the nine residents were able to escape the building. One resident, Scott Thomas, 66, was removed from his apartment by first responders and transported to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua, where he was later pronounced deceased. The ninth resident, an adult male, was later located deceased inside the upstairs apartment of Gerald Gutekunst, 80. The identity of the adult male found deceased inside the apartment remains pending official confirmation but is believed by investigators to be Mr. Gutekunst.

 Autopsies on both males are currently underway by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Fire investigators and detectives remain at the scene collecting physical evidence and conducting interviews. Investigators are examining all available information as part of the ongoing investigation, including whether this incident may have involved suicide by fire in which the fire then spread to cause the murder of another.

Investigators are aware that Mr. Gutekunst was previously charged in connection with allegations of arson and threats of violence in Hudson in 2019. Following that incident, he was the subject of public court proceedings that included competency evaluations. The criminal charges stemming from that incident were ultimately dismissed after Mr. Gutekunst was found not competent to stand trial and not restorable to competency.  Investigators are reviewing information from prior contacts involving Mr. Gutekunst and public safety agencies, as part of their effort to determine the circumstances leading up to the July 21, 2026, fire and the deaths of Mr. Thomas and the adult male inside Mr. Gutekunst’s apartment.

Investigators are asking anyone who has had recent contact with Mr. Gutekunst or who may have information relevant to this investigation to contact Nashua Police Detectives at (603) 594-3500.

Because this remains an active investigation, no further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire, the deaths, or the investigation will be released at this time.

Emergency responders were dispatched around 3:30 a.m. following reports of a blaze that had already spread significantly throughout the multi-unit structure. Firefighters arrived within minutes, but intense flames forced command to immediately call for a second alarm to bring in additional personnel and equipment.

Crews initially worked to protect two neighboring structures from the advancing flames while battling the main blaze. As conditions rapidly deteriorated, an emergency evacuation was ordered for all personnel inside the fire building after the building's roof collapsed.

According to a property manager, the building housed seven individual units. Residents home during the incident reported hearing smoke alarms before smelling smoke. One alert tenant went door-to-door, frantically banging on entrances to wake and evacuate neighbors.

Tragically, two fatalities occurred because of the incident:

• Apartment 6 Occupant: Preliminary reports indicate the fire originated in unit #6, where firefighters located a deceased male occupant. While authorities have not officially released his identity, neighbors noted the victim was deaf, which may have hindered his ability to hear the alarms and evacuate in time.
• Second Male Occupant: Firefighters located a second male victim during initial operations and immediately pulled him from the building. First responders performed CPR on scene before transporting him to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.

Official identities, as well as the cause and manner of death, will be released pending autopsies by the New Hampshire Medical Examiner’s Office.

If both fatalities are officially confirmed as fire-related, they will bring New Hampshire’s fire death toll to 15 this year—approaching the state's total of 18 fatalities recorded throughout all last year.

Investigating the scene are officials from the N.H. State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Nashua Fire Marshal's Office, Nashua Police, and the Medical Examiner’s Office. As part of the investigation, the State Fire Marshal’s Office deployed Reeves, a specialized accelerant detection K-9, to sweep the property for potential accelerants.

Nashua Emergency Management and the American Red Cross responded quickly to assist the displaced residents. The Red Cross is providing temporary housing, access to necessary prescriptions, and emergency support services to those affected.

NASHUA, N.H. - Nashua fire crews knocked down a second‑alarm blaze early Tuesday morning that tore through the upper floors of an eight‑unit residential building on Orange Street, leaving at least two people dead and causing heavy damage throughout the structure, according to Fire Chief Buxton at the scene.

Buxton said the department was notified of the fire at about 3:20 a.m., following reports that the second floor of the building was on fire. Companies were dispatched immediately and arrived to find heavy fire showing from the second‑floor attic area.

On arrival, deputies at the scene ordered a second alarm, bringing additional Nashua fire resources to the incident. Crews mounted an aggressive attack on the blaze in the upper floors.

Victims were removed from the building during the response, with Buxton saying it appeared there were two victims as of Tuesday morning. The building houses eight units, though the chief said it was not yet clear whether each unit had a single occupant.

Buxton said there is no indication, yet of what may have sparked the fire. The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office is expected to take over the investigation, working with county police, and officials were awaiting the marshal’s arrival at the scene.

By the time of Buxton’s interview, firefighters had knocked down the main body of fire, with only small pockets of flames remaining. The chief said the building sustained significant fire, smoke and water damage throughout, affecting both upper and lower floors.

At 8:10 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, State Troopers assigned to the Troop B barracks responded to a reported rollover crash near mile marker 15.6 on I-93 in Londonderry.

The preliminary investigation determined that Mohammad Doosti, 26, of Manchester, was driving a silver 2008 Toyota Highlander southbound in the far-right lane when the driver of another vehicle abruptly changed lanes in front of him. Attempting to avoid a collision, Doosti swerved to the left and lost control of the Toyota, which then rolled multiple times through the center median and came to rest at the edge of the median near the northbound side of the interstate.

No injuries were reported.

Lanes on both sides of the Interstate were closed off for approximately an hour while the investigation and cleanup took place.

Troopers were assisted by members of the Londonderry Fire Department and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Trooper Matthew Howe at Matthew.S.Howe@dos.nh.gov.

Initial information is that a tractor trailer traveling northbound in a construction site area under the Baboosic Lake Rd overpass caught several communication lines and ripped them down. The driver, most likely unaware of the incident continued northbound.

The communication lines and some power lines fell onto the highway, closing the highway and causing multiple brush fires. Two vehicles that struck the lines were damaged. At least one person in one of the vehicles was transported to a local hospital.

With gridlock on the turnpike crews were slowed significantly getting to the scene, and the brush fire spread quickly.

An AMR ambulance responding to mutual aid from Nashua had to travel north in the southbound lane to reach the patient who was injured.

NHSP shutdown northbound and southbound. Several vehicles who were caught in traffic made U-turns traveling in the wrong direction on the highway.

At 2:05 the lines were removed from the road and the highway was reopened.

It appears that possibly due to recent paving that the elevation of this highway was raised, and the standard clearance was reduced for vehicles traveling.

NHSP is investigating. Several mutual aid departments responded to Merrimack for station coverage. Baboosic Lake Rd was closed during the incident but has be reopened.

During the incident and for an extended period Daniel Webster Highway was bumper to bumper traffic as people used it as an alternative route.

A supersized 17-foot-wide screen was set up in the downtown park for the weekend, broadcasting both the semifinal and final matches of the 2026 World Cup. Rain kept Saturday’s crowd light, but by the 3 p.m. kickoff on Sunday the lawn was full, with fans spreading blankets, setting up lawn chairs and groups of children kicking soccer balls around the park.

The crowd featured plenty of Spain and Argentina supporters, judging by jerseys and flags, as well as casual fans who came simply for the shared experience of watching a global sporting event in a local setting. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in a tense final in New Jersey, finally breaking through in the 106th minute of extra time to claim La Roja’s second World Cup title behind a dominant, possession-heavy performance and a collective defensive effort that largely shut down Lionel Messi and his teammates.

The only downside to the park screening was the cancellation of Sunday morning’s Downtown Nashua Farmers Market to make room for the big screen and event infrastructure. The market is scheduled to return next Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Renaissance Park.

Monday, July 20

• Nashua Housing and Redevelopment Authority: 7:00 PM.

Tuesday, July 21

• Human Affairs Committee: 7:00 PM.
• Planning and Economic Development Committee: 7:00 PM. This meeting features a public hearing for Ordinance O-26-019.

Wednesday, July 22

• Committee on Infrastructure: 7:00 PM.

Thursday, July 23

• Joint Special School Building Committee: 7:30 PM. Location: Nashua High School - North.

(Note: The Board of Public Works meeting previously scheduled for July 23 has been cancelled)

City meetings frequently provide public access and are generally held at City Hall located at 229 Main Street.

If you'd like to review the agendas, minutes, or check for any last-minute schedule changes, let me know if you want details for a specific board, or visit the Nashua Public Hearings Directory and City of Nashua Agendas Portal to see the full list of posting

Official Live Streams (Web Browsers)

You can watch gavel-to-gavel live streams of city operations directly through the CTV Live Streams Portal on the City of Nashua Website:

• Board of Aldermen & Infrastructure Committees: Watch on the Government TV 16 Live Stream.
• School Board & Education Committees: Watch on the Nashua ETV Live Stream.

YouTube Channels (Live & Archived Recordings)

If you miss a live broadcast, the city categorizes and uploads meeting archives onto dedicated YouTube channels:

• Board of Aldermen & City Subcommittees: Available on the Nashua BOA Meetings YouTube Channel.
• Board of Education & School Committees: Available on the Nashua BOE Meetings YouTube Channel.
• General Educational & Community Programming: Available on the Nashua ETV YouTube Channel and Nashua Public Television Channel 6.

If you planted garlic last Fall, it’s probably getting close to harvest time! Keep an eye on it. How do you know it’s ready? The foliage will brown and flop over. Now you can pull them! To store them, brush the soil from the bulb (no need to scrub it clean), and let them dry for a couple day in the sun. Dry inside your home if it’s raining! It’s important to let them cure properly or they will rot too soon–no garlic through the winter if this happens! For full garden planting and harvesting instructions, click here!

As far as plantings go–I found some flower and pepper seedlings that I had neglected to plant. Milkweed, hollyhock, exotic love vine, celosia! I’m not sure how they will fare (especially the peppers) because I got them in the ground so late, but they fought so hard to live! I have to plant them and give them a fighting change.

Aside from these new plantings, I’m in a bit of a holding pattern in the veggie garden. July is more about maintaining and sorting through pests and disease. I keep an eye on the watering. Does anybody need fertilizer? I scout for pests and disease and treat them accordingly. Keep weeding! Woof. This is the hard part of the season for me—it’s hard to be motivated when it’s hot outside and I’m impatient for a harvest! But the reward of homegrown vegetables is completely worth it.

As for pests in the garden, of course, Colorado potato beetle (the 2nd generation is at my house), leaf hoppers, flea beetle! I have also heard reports of squash bugs from friends. These guys are nasty and can infect plants with disease. The ticky part with them is that they have beak-like mouth parts and suck, rather than chew on the plant. This means spinosid won’t work as effectively for control. I use neem oil if they are physically present or their egg masses are present. I highly recommend checking the topside and underside of the foliage, and on the fruit of the plant for these buggers. Squish ‘em when you see them!

At the store, we had reports of powdery mildew on squash plants as well. Powdery mildew is a white fungus that appears on the topside of the foliage. This occurs frequently with humid weather and isn’t something to be overly worried about. It can interfere with photosynthesis, but usually plants continue just fine. You can wipe it off, or you could use a fungicide if you want–I don’t bother with fungicide. If it’s downy mildew…this is a bad one. This white fungus appears on the underside of the foliage and can take down a plant. It would require a fungicide to treat it.

I also found a new problem on the fruits of my tomato plants! From afar, I thought it was blossom-end rot, but when I got closer, I wasn’t so sure. It appears like deep, dark wounds in the fruit. It’s possible that it’s a fruitworm (also known as cornear worm). Once fruitworm is inside the fruit, there isn’t much you can do, except to remove the infested fruit and destroy–don’t leave it around!

While this pest normally attacks corn, it can go for tomatoes. You would need to treat the plant before there was any issue. I would have used B.T. (bacillus thuringiensis) preventively for organic control. This all being said, I’m still not sure. I will cut open the fruit to see if there are any worms, and if there aren’t, I’m going to assume it’s blossom-end rot that progressed quickly on these particular tomatoes.

Blossom-end rot is simply a calcium deficiency in the plant. If this does turn out to be blossom-end rot, I will spray the foliage of my tomatoes with a liquid calcium to give the next fruits a better chance of developing without the rotted bottom. This will not cure the fruits that already have the rot. Additionally, while I plant with Tomato-Tone fertilizer, which contains calcium, I have not used a high calcium lime in this garden bed for a while. In the Fall after I put the gardens to bed, I will apply some of the lime.

Onward from talk of pests now! Let’s talk blooms! My swamp verbena is now fully blooming, and they are just so delicately purple and lovely–and my bees love it! My true white lilies are blooming in the perennial bed, as well as our fall flox! The hollyhocks, hydrangeas, and rudbeckia are still showing beautiful displays of flowers all around the yard. I love having a wide mix of flowering plants, so we can enjoy the blooms from springtime through Fall. More importantly? Having different flowering plants throughout the season gives more food sources to pollinators!

Some final notes: the weather ahead at least looks slightly cooler, but still warm. I see some possibility of rain, but I would be unsurprised if this changes. Keep up with watering; you can do it! This Saturday, July 18th, the The Garden Conservancy Open Days tours are going on right here in Nashua! There are a few locations, including The Big Little Garden, and require tickets.

The Nashua Farmers’ Crew is now back from vacation! Come on down if you need gardening supplies, or just some advice!

Kate Ratta is the manager of the local feed store Nashua Farmers' Exchange, Inc. She has more than 10 years of experience working in the business owned by her aunt and uncle, Judy Ratta-Harrington and Gene Harrington, and will be contributing weekly garden reports. The store is located at 38½ Bridge Street in Nashua in the converted Boston & Maine and Concord Railroad station.

The World Cup has been exciting, has it not? It’s heartening to see players and fans from across the globe come together and show respect and sportsmanship. We have received several inquiries asking where people can watch the World Cup finale. 

The City of Nashua is hosting a FIFA World Cup finale viewing party at 5 pm Sat., July 18 and 3 pm Sun., July 19, at Renaissance Park on Water Street, downtown Nashua. They will have a giant 17’ screen and a big grassy area for families and friends to gather and enjoy the games together. Attendees can bring blankets or lightweight chairs. There will be food trucks and porta johns.

Take a look below for other fun things you can do this week.

Be a good sport and I’ll see ya Downtown!
Elaina Bedio, Downtown Nashua Association 

𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟏𝟔

5:00PM: Pokémon League Night at Grave Troll Games

5:00PM: Buck-a-Shuck Oysters at The Pearl at Stella Blu

5:30PM:  John Chouinard at Union Public House

7:00PM: Buzztime Trivia at Odd Fellows Brewing Co

7:30PM: Open Mic Night at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

7:30PM: Trivia Night at Liquid Therapy

𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟏𝟕

7:30AM: Sacred Start at Vibe Yoga

12:30PM: Fryday: Fried specials all day at Soel Sistas Cafe-Catering & Food Truck

3:00PM: Free Drop-in Painting class at ArtHub - Downtown Gallery, Nashua Area Artists Association

4:00PM: Madhubani Art Workshop (Beginner) at ArtHub

7:30PM: Sean Coleman at Union Public House

9:30PM: Karoake Dance Party at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟏𝟖

2:30PM: Mike Bent: Read, Set, Grow Magic Show at Nashua Public Library

5:00PM: FIFA World Cup Watch Party at Renaissance Park

7:30PM: Matt Jackson at Union Public House

8:00PM: Hickory Hill Rockers at Casey Magee's Irish Pub

9:30PM: Code Switch at The Peddler's Daughter - Nashua

𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟏𝟗

𝟏𝟎:𝟎𝟎𝐀𝐌: 𝐍𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐚 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭

1:00PM: Trianna Live Acoustic at Soel Sistas Café

3:00PM: Brian Gray at Stella Blu (patio)

6:00PM: FIFA World Cup Watch Party at Renaissance Park

6:00PM: Sunday Evening Karaoke at The Spot

𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟐𝟎

2:00PM: Tween: Animal Crossing, Real World Expansion at Nashua Public Library

8:00PM: Tipsy Bingo at The Peddler's Daughter

10:00PM: Industry Night & Karaoke at Nashua Fody's Tavern

𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟐𝟏

5:00PM: Tacos & Tequila at Stella Blu

7:00PM: Trivia at The Peddler's Daughter

8:00PM: Music Bingo at Fody's Tavern

𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝟕/𝟐𝟐

1:00PM: Symphony NH String Quartet Live at Nashua Public Library

5:30PM: SJ Martin at Union Public House

6:00PM: Pajama Story Time at Nashua Public Library

7:00PM: The Granite Statesmen Barbershop Chorus Open Rehearsal at Nashua Senior Activity Center

7:00PM: Free Movie Night at The Spot

8:00PM: Trivia at Fody's Tavern

Summer has arrived in Nashua. The days are long and warm, the rain arrives in sudden bursts, and we spend more time outside – walking to the store, waiting for the bus, catching up with neighbors on the sidewalk. Our streets fill with the food, music, and art of the many places Nashua's people come from. It's one of the best times of the year to be here.

It’s also the season that shines a light on what isn't working: the bus stop with no shelter on a 95 degree afternoon, the pothole that gets a little deeper with every downpour, or the street without a single shade tree, where a short errand leaves you wrung out. I hear about these things constantly – at bus stops, in coffee shops, on people's front steps. The problem isn't that people don't notice what’s wrong. It’s that we rarely get an opportunity to share our concerns.

A group of Nashua neighbors, working alongside Conservation Law Foundation, wants to gather up those concerns and act on them. We want to hear from you.

We've created a short survey to learn what matters most to the people who call Nashua home: clean air and water, safe streets and sidewalks, green space, healthy housing, reliable buses, affordable groceries. It takes 5 to 10 minutes, is anonymous, and is open to anyone 18 or older who lives, works, plays, or studies in Nashua. The survey is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Arabic, Swahili, and Chinese.

You can help in two ways: take it yourself, and pass it along to your family, neighbors, coworkers, the people at your church or your kid's school.

Your response will shape what we push for – where we focus our advocacy, what changes we ask city leaders to make, and which problems we refuse to let slide. Advocacy works best when it starts with the people who know the ground.

Nashua, we need you.

Take the survey at qrco.de/HealthyNashua. Questions? Email me at mvaz@clf.org.

Marina Vaz, Environmental Justice Advocate, Conservation Law Foundation

Past Director Lecius joined the Nashua Lions in 1971, and has served in numerous positions within the club, district, region and internationally. In addition, he’s served in the administrations of former New Hampshire Governor John H. Sununu and President George HW  Bush.

Nashua Lion Names UNDOC

Lecius, a resident of Merrimack, NH, retired from the Nashua Police Department in 2020 after serving 20 years as Community Policing Coordinator. He currently serves as a member of the NH Police Standards and Training Council.

Work of the committee is focused on the program level and is mostly driven by UNDOC adoption of the Lions Quest programs, part of its drug prevention protocol.

The mission of UNDOC is to tackle the world drug problem, fight organized crime, prevent and counter corruption, money laundering and economic crime, prevent and counter terrorism and promote fair and effective criminal justice systems.

UNDOC works with governments and other stakeholders to rapidly identify new criminal trends and threats. They bring countries together to cooperate and find common solutions, develop legislation, policies and strategies to bring transitional organized criminal groups to justice while protecting people and their rights.

In addition to this, Lecius serves as a member of LCI’s Global Advocacy Team.

Tracking reading is a deeply personal choice. It helps you keep a book list, reach personal goals, and build consistent reading habits. But it also can seem like a chore, become time consuming, and lead to comparison. For children especially, the act of recording their reading can suck the joy right out of the experience. Why do you want to track your reading? What are you hoping to gain from the experience? 

Tracking vs. not tracking reads is something Erin has always been on the fence about. She finds Goodreads overwhelming and mostly uses it for recommendations for her teens, but she does go through phases of logging reads in a notebook. No ratings, just a handwritten log per month for a random assortment of months when she finds motivation. She started it because a certain parent at baseball games was always pulling out her phone to consult her Goodreads so they could discuss books. According to her notebook, Erin was mostly concerned with the number of books she read each month/year, even though she never actually set a goal. 

Anyone with a neurodivergent kind of brain can understand the appeal of tracking very well and has probably tried several different shiny methods of doing so, but for Emilee, none of them ever stuck. Now that a lot of Emilee’s reading happens through audiobook apps, being able to pull up the historical data is extremely useful for some of the reasons listed above: being able to keep a personal record and recommend books, find similar titles, or even check on that series that was supposed to have another book released and what was that called again???

Recently, Erin’s niece turned her on to a new mood-based app called StoryGraph. It’s a smaller, Amazon-free alternative that features a journal, custom tags, book clubs, half and quarter star recommendations, content warnings, challenges, a queue, and much more. You can even transfer your Goodreads data! Erin spent an afternoon of vacation inputting her 2026 reads, which were hanging out in her planner. She loved the option to add DNF (did not finish), which is one thing she does usually note, since it helps her understand what books she has tried and didn’t like, but what she most enjoyed was the pretty graph of her reading moods. 

Erin already knew that her post-COVID reading was skewed to the happy side, but it was interesting to see everything laid out. She can’t wait to see how her graph changes (or doesn’t) when she finds time to input reads from other years, even though she doesn’t rate anything. As someone who is recently off the social media sauce, StoryGraph offers an opportunity to see what friends are reading without the mindless scrolling of Instagram. So far Erin has two friends (her niece and sister-in-law), and it has been great to chat about books and see what they are reading since they live far away. 

Tracking reading for kids is a slightly different story, since they don’t have as much access to apps. For many schools and especially summer library programs, kids have to track how many books or how many minutes they read, perhaps on a pre-made tracker or calendar. Some school districts and public libraries use an app called Beanstack for tracking and incentivizing reading. Challenges can be created and shared that are for specific times of life, like the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” challenge, or for specific times of year, like “March Madness Challenge” or “Summer Reading Challenge.”

Kids can track their reading and earn badges for reading or reading-related activities. These can sometimes make reading feel like a bit of a competition (at least at Erin’s house). In our school library, we offer (optional) coloring bookmarks a few times a year for kids to take home and color in a book or a box every time they finish something. We use these bookmarks from one of our favorite librarians, @thebookwrangler. For some kids, this is a joy, and for others it is a chore. Just like adults, it is a personal choice.

Bottom line, whether you track or you don’t track, rate or don’t rate, the choice is yours. Enjoy your reading, enjoy your life. 

The Reliable Narrators is a column about reading and books for readers and non-readers, alike from two moms who also happen to be educators and library personnel. Emilee Williamson and Erin Roth are a school-proclaimed “dynamic duo” who love kids, books, and hosting gatherings in the library. You can expect conversations about reading (for yourself and your loved ones), book and media recommendations, and the occasional recipe inspired by a current read.

At 4:54 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, State Troopers assigned to the Troop B barracks responded to a reported rollover crash on I-293 southbound in the area of Exit 2 in Manchester.

The preliminary investigation determined that the driver of a 2006 Volvo XC-90, identified as Michael Meucci, 44, of Salem, may have been distracted by an unrestrained dog within his vehicle. Meucci then lost control of the SUV while exiting the F. E. Everett Turnpike off-ramp onto I-293 southbound. The Volvo rolled over multiple times.

Meucci was not wearing a seatbelt and was thrown from the vehicle through the sunroof. He suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Traffic on I-293 was reduced to one lane for approximately 45 minutes while the scene was cleaned up.

Troopers were assisted by members of the Bedford and Manchester fire departments and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation.

All aspects of the crash remain under investigation. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Trooper Nathan Belanger at (603) 738-7260.

There will be a giant 17’ screen and a big grassy area for families and friends to gather and enjoy the games together. Attendees can bring blankets or lightweight chairs. There will be food trucks and portajohns. There is no alcohol permitted at the event.

The games are scheduled to begin at 5 pm Saturday and at 3 pm Sunday. The screen can broadcast in light rain, but lightning would cancel the event. For more information, also see the event page on the Enjoy Nashua Facebook page.

Ash Street was closed to traffic, and tables from local groups and organizations lined the roadway. Two Nashua Fire Rescue engines and a public works truck were on hand for a touch-a-truck experience for children.

Ward 4 Alderman Tom Lopez served as emcee from the porch of the Police Athletic League building. Former state Sen. Melanie Levesque, now a candidate for Executive Council, kicked off the event with a short address to the neighborhood.

She focused on civic participation, saying, “I want to get a message across to everyone that we have these rights given to us by the Constitution, and those rights include the right to vote. Ninety million people did not vote in the last election. We can see the results of not participating. It's important that every one of us who can, learn about what the issues are, learn about the candidates that are running, and vote for the people that will help you thrive.”

State Rep. Linda Harriott-Gathright, speaking in her role as president of the Greater Nashua Area Branch of the NAACP, also greeted the crowd. The branch staffed one of the information tables and is hosting a special “Night at the Ballpark” Futures League All-Star Game on July 21, which she invited attendees to join.

Liz Hannum, the city’s director of economic development, staffed the city information table alongside Matt Sullivan, community development division director.

“This neighborhood, it's so packed in and yet people are still not meeting their neighbors very often,” Hannum said. “So, it's really nice to use the street as kind of a meeting place, a community space and for the residents to get to know all the things that are happening in the city and all the resources that are available. Plus, the touch-a-truck is always a winner.”

Lopez, one of the event’s organizers, described its importance.

“For me, it's important because the city needs to celebrate the Tree Streets instead of looking down on them or identifying them as a community that is undesirable,” he said. “This is where people live. This is where families live. There's a lot of diversity here and a lot of different people trying to live together here. It’s a model for the rest of the city.”

The Rev. Ray Ealy, minister at New Fellowship Baptist Church, which sits in the heart of the Ash Street neighborhood, said he was enjoying the event and the crowds of neighbors.

“I think it's a good day where the people of the neighborhood can feel that the city and the leaders support them,” he said. “Because we know that all this comes from people, and they donate to this, and people just have a good day. They get information. They get certain organizations to come and talk to them. They get entertainment, and it's just an enjoyable day for the neighborhood.

“So many times, people in neighborhoods like this, they don't get many days where it can just be a really good day. And that's how I see it. It's a really good day.”

Incident #1 - Nashua Police, fire, and AMR ambulance responded to the Shaw's grocery store Saturday morning on DW Highway for a man suffering from a stab wound.

On arrival they found a man with a stab wound to his back, and what appeared to be cuts from possibly defensive wounds on his hands.

He was transported to a local hospital. Nashua Police could be seen searching the area and gathering video evidence. A vehicle with Massachusetts plated could be seen surrounded with crime scene tape.

Incident #2 - Nashua Police, fire, and AMR ambulance responded for a report of a woman with a stab wound at 5 Blackstone Saturday afternoon.

Officers could be seen exiting the apartment building with long guns, and NFR and AMR were treating a woman with injuries to her hand. The woman was brought to a stretcher with her hand bandaged. Allegedly a person attempted to cut off her finger according to initial reports. She was transported to a local hospital. It is unknown if anyone was taken into custody.

Incident #3 - Manchester Fire, Bedford Fire, AMR and NHSP responded to 293 South near the Manchester / Bedford line for a vehicle rollover with ejection.

Initial information is this was a single vehicle crash and the man driving rolled the car five times and ejected out the sunroof. A dog in the vehicle also ejected and fled the scene and was later captured and taken for medical treatment.

The left lanes of 293 in the area were closed for about 1 hour.

Incident #4 - Saturday evening, UMass Memorial LifeFlight landed in Litchfield to pick up a patient from an ATV accident on Winter Circle.

The juvenile and his parent flew from the landing zone to UMASS Worcester. The patient had serious injuries but was conscious, and breathing. Litchfield Police with the assistance of NH Fish and Game are investigating the accident.

Incident #5 -Not pictured - Saturday afternoon a child approximately 2 years old fell from a third floor of an apartment building at 495 Old Wellington Road in Manchester. Unknown injuries, and unknown condition

The 12-week training program is a collaboration among Nashua Community College, Southern New Hampshire Health and ApprenticeshipNH. Eight students completed the cohort and passed the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant national exam.

Medical assistants are health care professionals who support doctors in medical offices, clinics and hospitals. All eight graduates are now employed by Southern New Hampshire Health and will complete 3,600 hours of work there over the next two years to finish the apprenticeship program.

“You should be proud. You should be proud of the field that you elected to go into. The world needs you,” said Barry Garside, vice president of academic and student affairs at Nashua Community College. “Our health care institutions are stressed today. What you do matters. What you do impacts our society.”

“Your professional growth has been nothing short of remarkable. You have transformed from students learning the fundamentals in health care into health care professionals who are ready to care for patients and contribute to your health care team,” said course instructor Kelly McKinnon of Southern New Hampshire Health. “The knowledge, skills and professionalism you have developed in just the last few months are truly impressive, and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves.”

The Workforce Solutions department at Nashua Community College offers accelerated career boot camps, apprenticeships and customized corporate training. The department partners with local businesses to help job seekers build careers and fill high-demand labor gaps, including through programs such as the Microelectronics Boot Camp and the Precision Manufacturing Boot Camp