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I hope this letter finds you enjoying the hazy, hot days of summer on the seacoast!

I have been looking forward to our first Kids & Pets issue since I started on the journey to bring Portsmouth City Lifestyle to the community I love to call home. Anyone who knows me knows I am a lifelong dog mom and a huge animal lover. Did I say huge? I mean, HUGE! I have two adorable and crazy pups, Beatrix and Finnegan—and I am for tunate to have five amazing nieces and nephews. I have experienced firsthand the joy pets and kids bring and their significant impact on "their people" and the community.
The companionship animals provide can be transformative for children and adults alike. Pets provide joy and unconditional love and teach us how to love and care in return. The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering empathy, responsibility, and compassion. Unsure, then swing by the Pirates Cove Beach in Rye before 9 am and see for yourselves the joy of dog and owner—there's a good possibility you will run into me, Bea, and Finn. And read about Mason and Izzy and their involvement in the community. Who knows, maybe you can get tips on finding the right pup to fit into your life.
Let's not forget about the kids—their innocence, curiosity, and resilience hold the power to shape our future in ways we can't even imagine. They are the future, and they deserve our attention and support. Visit our community skate park and witness the bravery of skaters launching themselves into the air and their determination to pick themselves up and try again until they succeed. If your kids need to build some muscle and mental grit, consider R3VAMP Performance Center. The investment we make today in nurturing our children's development, imagination, and individuality can unlock limitless possibilities.
Let the stories in these pages inspire you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life and the community.
Enjoy!
PUBLISHER
Anne Moodey | anne.moodey@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Tara Phillips | tara.phillips@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kim Piela | kim.piela@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Susan Gallagher, Gail Huff, Ann Kathryn Kelly, Terence Kirby
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Melissa Koren Photography, Ian Davis, Kimberly Sarah Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling


























1: Theo Martey and the Akwaaba Ensemble, Juneteenth Celebration. 2: Mark Kane, Fife & Allkane Insurance and Bill MacDonald, J. Hilburn enjoying the view. 3: Kali Moulton, Sages Entertainment; Andrea Schwanbeck, Brass Tacks Photography; and Danielle Wieler, Vent at the June CelebrateHER 4: Cheers! Jo Kelley, owner Cup of Joe and Portsmouth Assistant Mayor with Aidan Berman at Plates for Change. 5: Morgan Chevalier and Nicole Nocella Chef Owner of Stalk in Dover serve up yummy salmon tartare at Plates for Change. 6: Chris Rice, passionate skateboarder and key advocate for the Portsmouth skate park, making it look easy around the pool. 7: Jesse Court of Portsmouth shows us a Crooked Grind.





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FOUR-LEGGED COMFORTERS LIFT SPIRITS AND EASE STRESS FOR PORTSMOUTH STUDENTS, POLICE OFFICERS, AND THE COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY SUSAN GALLAGHER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLY SARAH
Trusting eyes in a gentle face, the curious tilt of a furry head, the tender touch of a padded paw: the comfort a dog provides is in its very nature. What better creature to calm us amidst life’s storms?
Since ancient times, dogs have aided humans as loyal companions and helpers, but these days, a chosen few serve an even higher purpose as therapy and comfort dogs. Two of these benevolent animals, Izzy at Portsmouth High School and Mason at the
PHOTOGRAPHY

police department, spread love and serenity throughout the Portsmouth community.
The jaunty, wooly-furred Izzy, a twoyear-old Goldendoodle, serves as the high school’s therapy dog, assisting her owner, Class of 2026 Counselor Amy Donovan, two days a week. Her sunny countenance greets students in the morning, bringing easy smiles to tired faces and setting a buoyant mood for the day. “She was born to do this,” says Donovan. “She’s a natural.”
Izzy spends most of her time in Donovan’s office, where distressed students can seek help from their counselor and her four-legged colleague. A welcoming loveseat offers a place of respite, where
the insightful dog knows when to hop up to rest her downy head on a troubled student’s leg. Donovan says Izzy is so perceptive she can sense who needs her touch and who needs space.
Teachers themselves often require Izzy’s emotional support. “They just stop in and ask for a minute with Izzy,” Donovan says. Just petting the animal’s soft, curling fur is sometimes enough to alleviate their stress. They can also request classroom visits from the Goldendoodle when students are upset or before an exam to reduce anxiety.
Izzy’s mild demeanor is innate, but she and her owner completed an extensive
“He wins people over. Mason’s for everybody—he’s the community’s comfort dog.”
assessment for certification from Pet Partners, a therapy animal nonprofit. Donovan’s comprehensive handler course included learning the role of a therapy dog. While therapy and comfort dogs both supply comfort, therapy dogs volunteer with their owners in schools and clinical settings, while comfort dogs help ease anxiety for traumatized individuals, often at police departments.
At Portsmouth Police Department, handsome, easy-going Mason, the comfort dog, is undoubtedly the force’s most popular member. The silken-coated Black Labrador is only 19 months old, but his handler, Detective Rochelle Jones, says he

is “an old soul.” His early maturity enables him to fulfill his duties with the aplomb of a seasoned veteran.
Jones is the department’s Community Outreach Coordinator and finds Mason to be an incredible asset. She and her canine partner visit schools and nursing homes and attend parades and other community events. The gregarious pup quickly disarms citizens who may fear the police, breaking down barriers and building trust. “He wins people over,” says Jones. “Mason’s for everybody—he’s the community’s comfort dog.”
Mason’s core duties go deeper than social outreach. His calming abilities are

crucial in easing anxiety for victims of violence, tragedy, or trauma. This highly sensitive dog is so intuitive he heads directly for the most stressed victims. “He knows when someone needs him,” Jones says. The placid Labrador is invaluable in victim interviews, especially with frightened children, where Mason’s gentle presence enables them to open up.
Providing officer support at the department may be Mason’s most vital role. Officers returning from a difficult call can find solace on Jones’s office couch, where Mason happily joins them to work his healing magic. Jones explains, “He gives these officers love when they really need it.”
Hero Pups, a nonprofit that places comfort dogs with veterans and first responders, trained and selected Mason for the department and provided Jones’ handler training, all thanks to a generous donation from AT&T FirstNet. Although Jones is Mason’s second handler, the detective and comfort dog bonded immediately. While the department owns Mason, he lives with Jones, further deepening their connection.
Izzy and Mason represent a growing trend in the use of therapy and comfort dogs on the seacoast. Izzy is one of four dogs in the Portsmouth school district, and several other districts and police departments employ these valuable animals. In an increasingly stressful world, we need our calming canine companions more than ever.












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ARTICLE BY GAIL HUFF

Stepping into the spacious gym, the first thing to hit your senses is the clang of metal and the sound of pulsating music as a swarm of young athletes lift and sweat to the beat. Then your eyes draw upwards to the colorful sports jerseys hanging from the walls, with dozens of schools represented—players’ names and numbers proudly stamped on the back. Every athlete here aspires to, one day, add their jersey to the wall.
This is R3VAMP Performance Center in Hampton. Owner and founder Mike Hicks and business partner Paul Cinquegrana, both former college athletes, are passionate about helping student-athletes reach their greatest potential on and off the field. Hicks played baseball at Saint Anselm College and Endicott College and then went on to get his master’s in sports and performance psychology. He continues to play amateur baseball in the Boston area.
Cinquegrana played hockey at the University of Connecticut and currently plays for the Norfolk Mallards in a semi-professional league. The two met playing slow-pitch softball in the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) and quickly realized they share an intense interest and skill set for developing young athletes.
R3VAMP works with all ages from elementary through college, offering sports-specific programming like their popular baseball academy and individual programs where athletes train up to five days a week, with sessions lasting anywhere from one to four hours. It is a home away from home for these kids, with Hicks and Cinquegrana acting as coaches and mentors—guiding them through athletic development to the college recruitment process.
Take 18-year-old Angus Moss of Portsmouth, one of the original R3VAMP athletes. Working with Hicks over the last three years on everything from strength and conditioning to cognitive training, Moss successfully transitioned from a multi-sport athlete to a focus on football. The plan paid off as Moss will kick off his freshman year playing for Endicott College this fall.
Whatever the sport, the primary goal at R3VAMP is to develop the athlete’s whole body, mind, and spirit; cognitive development is a pillar of their approach. “It’s the mind and brain that run the body, so for us, it’s just as important to train these functions in conjunction with physical performance,” Hicks insists. Success is measured in muscle growth and watching athletes gain mental strength and confidence. “Every competitor here is skilled and strong, but it’s the mental side of their game that separates them from their peers,” explains Hicks. Quick decision-making and managing performance anxiety are essential skills for competing at a high level.
17-year-old baseball player Shea LaFleur knows this first-hand. The recent Exeter High School graduate turned to R3VAMP to help him improve his game enough to play in college. “R3VAMP helps with my mental game, especially in building confidence” says LaFleur, heading to Avon Old Farms in Connecticut this fall for a post-graduate year in prep for college play.
Besides all the machines and weight equipment you would expect, R3VAMP uses a Senaptec Sensory Station to assess an athlete’s sensory motor skills. The software tool identifies weaknesses and helps trainers develop programming around these weak areas. Visual clarity, depth perception, reaction time, and eye-hand coordination are just some of the skills measured.
Athletes also say R3VAMP is a safe space for sharing emotional difficulties. Cinquegrana remembers one of the first athletes who joined their program. “He was going through a lot of stuff at home with his parents splitting up and bullying in school for a speech impediment, and

“Every competitor here is skilled and strong, but it’s the mental side of their game that separates them from their peers.”
the first couple of sessions, we just sat down while he cried,” Cinquegrana explains. “He slowly started gaining confidence, and the following year, became a whole different kid,” he adds.
Lily Glance, a 20-year-old lacrosse player at the College of the Holy Cross started with R3VAMP last summer to sharpen her mental skills. “It’s very


KATIE MILLETT, 15, HOCKEY
Hometown: Hampton
Winnacunnet High School
Fall 2024, Choate Rosemary Hall
CAM MORAN, 17, HOCKEY & BASEBALL
Seacoast Performance Academy
Fall 2024, Elev8
Baseball Academy
SHEA LAFLEUR, 17, BASEBALL
Hometown: Exeter
Exeter High School
Fall 2024, Avon Farms School
ANGUS MOSS, 18, FOOTBALL
Hometown: Portsmouth
Portsmouth High School
Fall 2024, Endicott College
COLE MCGLAUGHLIN, 18, FOOTBALL & TRACK
Hometown: Greenland
Portsmouth High School
Fall 2024, University of New England
LILY GLANCE, 20, LACROSSE
Hometown: West Newbury, MA
Tabor Academy
Fall 2024, College of the Holy Cross
challenging being a Division I athlete,” explains Glance. “Whatever the problem—personal or sports-related— the whole team at R3VAMP is there to help you work through it, offering the support you need.”
Most athletes here aim to play for a Division I or II college like Glance. That’s the case with 15-year-old Katie Millett of Hampton. “Mental toughness is the biggest thing I’ve gained from the program,” says Millett, who started playing hockey at age six. She also loves the team bonding experience that comes with being a part of the R3VAMP family.
Teamwork is what Cam Moran loves about playing baseball. The 17-year-old catcher and rising senior from Newmarket wants to play for a Division I team, so plans to improve his game and finish high school at Elev8 Baseball Academy in Florida this fall. Another R3VAMP athlete, 18-year-old Cole McGlaughlin, is heading north to play football at the Division III University of New England but will work hard for a transfer opportunity to play at the Division I level in his junior or senior year. Both continue to train with R3VAMP, hoping their college jerseys will someday hang from the wall and inspire other young athletes.














We

Ray S. Panek Owner/Principal













Dropping In On Portsmouth’s New Skatepark That Delivers Outdoor Fun For All Ages
ARTICLE BY ANN KATHRYN KELLY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN DAVIS
There’s something about skateparks that broadcasts a youngat-heart vibe. Skateparks tick off the boxes for skills, thrills, and the ultimate chill—bringing together all ages for outdoor fun that’s good for the body and the mind.

“We’re standing on the shoulders of those before us who fought for this. From day one, this has been a wellness project.”
Portsmouth’s new, state-of-the-art skatepark opened in December 2023 after more than two years of planning, fundraising, and construction. Local skateboarders looking to drop in and carve their next bowl or kick-flip a six-set will find a variety of challenging elements, complete with stadium lighting that extends enjoyment into the evening hours. While designed specifically for skateboarding, the Portsmouth Skatepark—located at 305 Greenland Road—also welcomes scooters, inline and roller skating fans, BMX bikers, and, of course, spectators.
“It’s packed whenever I drive by,” Dave Cosgrove, Co-chair of the Skatepark Blue Ribbon Committee, says. “There’s always activity, including diehard skateboarders I saw shoveling snow in the winter.” He chuckles, adding: “Not a surprise. We’re hardy New England riders.”
Steady traffic speaks volumes to why this park is essential for the community. “It’s about much
more than skateboarding,” Cosgrove continues. “People realized, especially during the pandemic, how important outdoor recreation spaces are for everyone’s health. From day one, this has been a wellness project.”
Blue Ribbon Committee member Chris Rice agrees. “There’s nothing better for mental health than physical activity.” Rice and Cosgrove both grew up skateboarding and share a love for the sport. “There’s a strong sense of mentorship,” Rice explains. “We all want to see each other improve and, most importantly, have fun. It’s common to find experienced skaters offering pointers to new riders or celebrating when someone lands a trick. The energy is inclusive.”
The Portsmouth Skatepark was decades in the making, though earlier locations—sanctioned and unsanctioned—were available through the years. Greenleaf Rec Center, built in the 1990s, was an option for a time but was outdated and with limited access. Rye Airfield


was another option until it closed. And then there was everyone’s favorite underground “Sh!t Park” behind the Button Factory, nicknamed that because it was a last resort: just a patch of broken concrete, some homemade ramps, and an illegal gathering place from the start. Portsmouth police tolerated it because it kept skateboarders away from the pedestrian-heavy downtown, but when redevelopment began for what is now West End Yards, skateboarders found themselves once again without a home.
Amy-Mae Court’s son Jesse was among the crew of local skateboarders being shuffled around. “Jesse has been skateboarding since age five,” Court points out. “When Rye Airfield closed, that was a big loss for the community. Our kids want—and deserve—a dedicated place to practice their sport. The time had come to stop pushing them to the outskirts.”
That’s why, three years ago, Portsmouth High School students Oliver Sieve and Seamus Durkin approached Portsmouth City Councilor Esther Kennedy with a request to fund improvements for Greenleaf Rec Center. Kennedy brought it to the Mayor, who suggested a committee. Enter Cosgrove and Court as co-chairs, along with Rice, Todd Henley from Portsmouth Recreation Department, Peter Rice from Portsmouth Department of Public Works, and additional committee members, each bringing their experience and connections to the table. The group determined a better and longer-term solution would be to build a modern skatepark versus putting a band-aid on Greenleaf.
“Oliver and Seamus kicked it off,” says Cosgrove, “but all of us stand on the shoulders of those before us who fought for this skatepark for many years. It’s a testament to what is possible when we come together as a city.”
“Skateboarding teaches those who take it up how to be resilient, empathetic, and helpful. Etched somewhere within all those falls is the blueprint to their success.”

The committee worked with local schools and students, businesses, and through community meetings to educate people on the upsides of having a skatepark free and accessible to all ages. Awareness and fundraising campaigns were vital in securing enthusiastic community buy-in. A Battle of the Bands fundraiser at the Community Campus brought in performers from across New Hampshire. Another time, Portsmouth High School students designed skateboards sold at a fundraising event. Middle school students drew and colored a banner of paper skateboards for a 3S Artspace fundraiser. It served double duty as the ribbon cut at the Grand Opening.
will take days, weeks, sometimes months of falling before landing a trick. Yet, they keep falling and keep trying because they know that etched somewhere within all those falls is the blueprint to their success.”
The skatepark is an ideal fresh-air alternative to the couch or screen time and gets a big thumbs up from Court’s son, Jesse. “It’s now the place where we can reunite with old friends and make new ones,” he says. “I think it will spark passion for skateboarding with future generations.”
Portsmouth Skatepark hours:
May to October: Dawn - 10:00 pm
November to April: Dawn - 9:00 pm
Cosgrove, Rice, and Court agree that skateboarding teaches those who take it up how to be resilient, empathetic, and helpful.
“Skateboarders,” Court explains, “know that it
While a draw for Seacoast residents, visitors also come from Massachusetts, northern New Hampshire—even as far as Quebec, Canada— with the park welcoming everyone, from tots learning to scooter to teen skaters practicing with mentors, adults reliving their glory days on boards, and spectators cheering tricks.
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Understand your lifestyle needs. If you are a hardcore trail runner, consider a high-energy breed, but a low-activity breed might be better if you enjoy leisurely coastal walks. Are you always on the go or a workaholic? Then, don’t discount the time and money it takes to care for a dog in your absence.
Rescues are often older and, as such, are likely housebroken, full-grown, and easier to gauge personality, so there are fewer surprises. However, working with a breeder may allow for better integration with children and other pets.
First impressions don’t always predict temperament when choosing a puppy. When we picked up our Belgian Malinois puppy, Bizz, she took one look at us and panicked. But within a day, she was rolling around with the kids and joining field trips at the local jiu-jitsu gym.
A love for canine companionship doesn’t fade with age, but I have seen shocking mismatches and perfect connections. Seniors may do better with low-maintenance and lower-energy breeds. Do your research and talk to a breeder in depth. If adopting, ask about personality and previous homes.
CONSIDER YOUR LIVING ENVIRONMENT
Think small if you are an urban dweller living in a small apartment with a roommate. Will Fido be sharing a couch or car space with kids or grandparents?
Whether you are looking for a therapy dog, a sports dog, or a pet it is essential to research the breed and know what to expect.
KIRBY'S BREED SUGGESTIONS
High Drive
German Shorthaired Pointers, Australian Cattle Dogs, Border Collies, Field Bred Labrador Retrievers, and typical Southern rescue mixes
Low Activity
Brachycephalic breeds like French or English Bulldogs or Pugs
For Seniors
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frisé, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers
Contact My Dogs Mind, Hampton mydogsmind.com 603.601.8917

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERENCE KIRBY
Advice from Local Dog Whisperer Terence Kirby of My Dogs Mind





EXHIBIT OPEN AUGUST 16TH-OCTOBER 13TH
3S Artspace | 319 Vaughan Street | Portsmouth | 5:00 PM
Maine artist Peter Bruun turned to his studio for solace after the death of his daughter. A new exhibit opening at 3S Artspace, Each Has Their Own, features dozens of Bruun’s paintings and drawings from this time. Meet Bruun at the exhibit opening on August 16th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Visit 3sarts.org/exhibitions/each-has-their-grief to learn more.
AUGUST 18TH
Strawbery Banke Museum | Portsmouth | 12:00 PM
The 2024 New England BIPOC Fest at Strawbery Banke promises to be a day filled with music, art, food, and community connections, showcasing the talents and contributions of BIPOC individuals in the Seacoast area. There will be a diverse lineup of performers, artisans, food vendors, and interactive workshops and discussions promoting dialogue and education. For more, visit newenglandbipocfest.com.
AUGUST 18TH
Cisco Brewers Portsmouth | 35 Corporate Drive | 12:00 PM
Get ready to feast and sip in style at the 10th annual Portsmouth Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival. The 2024 festival at Cisco Brewers will feature lawn games, music, local and regional artisans, and family-friendly activities. Bring your chair and enjoy more than 20 food trucks, along with craft beer and cocktails from Cisco Brewers. Learn more at foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com/portsmouth.




GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PORTSMOUTH
AUGUST 24TH
41st Annual Seacoast Jazz Festival
Prescott Park | Portsmouth | 12:00 PM
Prescott Park Arts Festival and the Seacoast Jazz Society are presenting the annual festival featuring local, regional, and international talent amplifying the different styles of jazz. There is a suggested donation of $10 for general admission. You can rent picnic blankets and tables from the Prescott Park Arts Festival. Rain date is Sunday, August 25th. Details at seacoastjazz.org.
SEPTEMBER 5TH
street.life! 2024
Port City Air's Hanger 205 | 62 Durham Street | Portsmouth | 6:00 PM
Come enjoy street.life! 2024 at the Port City Air Hanger at Portsmouth International Airport. Enjoy food from around the world thanks to Great Circle Catering, along with drinks, live music from Foreside Funk, aerialists, a raffle, and more. The event is held rain or shine. Book your tickets at portsmouthcollaborative.org/streetlife2024.
SEPTEMBER 15TH
Seven Rivers Paddling | 185 Wentworth Road | Portsmouth | 10:00 AM
Get ready to make waves! The annual Seacoast Paddle for the Pups event is back. Hosted by the Seacoast Paddleboard Club, bring your SUP, kayak, or canoe and paddle for a cause. You can paddle solo or bring your pup to raise money for homeless animals. All proceeds benefit the NH SPCA. Register at nhspca.org/seacoast-paddle-for-the-pups.


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nearly 40 years home service has been our craft.


As the summer enters its last month and the focus shifts to end of the summer gatherings and preparing for a return to school, we are even more focused on helping our neighbors stay comfortable and healthy in their homes.
We look forward to serving you and offering solutions to all your home’s needs, from plumbing problems, to indoor air quality concerns, to creating a smart and energy efficient home.
