Author: Nicole Forbes

Health issues are starting earlier in the workforce

Employer health benefits costs are rising faster than inflation and wage growth, putting continued pressure on employer-sponsored plans. According to KFF’s 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey, per-employee benefit costs increased 6% in 2025, with another 6.5% increase projected for 2026.

Ask the Experts: Understanding assisted living

As families navigate life after retirement, a change in scenery or in housing may be in order. Our panelist addresses common myths, warning signs and the emotional decisions surrounding a move. She explains how assisted living can preserve independence, strengthen safety and create opportunities for healthier, more connected living.

The essential role of a health plan in New Hampshire

When families face a cancer diagnosis, mental health crisis, or any unexpected change in their health, the last thing they should worry about is navigating a complicated health care system. But for many, that is exactly what they face. Complex benefits, rising out-of-pocket costs and uncertainty about where to turn can add stress to already difficult moments.

(Opinion) Give New Hampshire residents the freedom to work

LABOR By: Edward Timmons According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, New Hampshire has one of the more severe labor market shortages nationally. For every 100 jobs available in the state, there are only 68 available workers to fill them.…

Embrace vulnerability, humility

Since my October stroke and ongoing aging, I find myself thinking more about vulnerability and other important values such as humility. I think everyone should have a therapist and mine observed, “I wonder…

Students on the sidelines

The advance of artificial intelligence is an increasingly prevalent topic, particularly as it relates to how it will impact our workforce. Much of that conversation is about how disruptive it will be or how…

Cook on Concord: Civics 101 reminders

 The constitutions of the United States and New Hampshire have been in the news a lot recently, with questions about the president’s war powers and ability to impose tariffs unilaterally, and state issues about…

In 2032, Social Security money runs dry

If nothing changes between now and then, the trust fund that finances Social Security payments will run out, triggering a 7% decline in monthly payments in 2032 and dwindling further to 28% from 2033 through 2036.

NH Media Teachers and Media Power Youth partner to expand state film festival

New Hampshire Media Teachers and Media Power Youth (MPY) have announced a strategic partnership for the 2026 NH High School Short Film Festival (NHHSSFF). This collaboration introduces a new category designed to celebrate the students, educators and community members who help New Hampshire’s schools and neighborhoods thrive.

Uneven trends in income and poverty across New Hampshire

New U.S. Census Bureau data offer a detailed look at how New Hampshire residents have fared during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. This data, covering the five years of 2020-24, provides insight into long-term trends in income and poverty across different regions and demographic groups.

Getting it done

Campaign aims to boost profile of NH nonprofits during funding challenges

Black Mountain owner on a mission to make skiing more accessible

Erik Mogensen pulled Black Mountain in Jackson from the edge of extinction by purchasing what was a family-held ski area in 2024 with the help of shareholders from within the skiing community. He announced March 12 his 100% purchase of Black, the oldest ski hill in New Hampshire, having bought out his shareholders.

Powering AI

Will New Hampshire ever land a massive data center?

BAB builds bones

Advanced Solutions Life Sciences' Jay Hoying shares more about the BioAssembly Bot (BAB) and how its technology is impacting the regenerative medicine industry in NH

Yankee Publishing Inc. announces first new CEO in over 25 years

After an exhaustive national search, Yankee Publishing Inc. (YPI) has promoted an executive from within its ranks to lead the Dublin-based independent media company. Ernesto Burden, whose media experience spans three decades, is taking over as president and CEO from Jamie Trowbridge, who has served in those roles for more than 25 years.

NH groups spark interest in the building and restoration trades

The availability of affordable yet well-maintained housing has become a perennial issue in New Hampshire communities and in the New Hampshire Legislature. While local and state policies and programs may open pathways to increased housing opportunities, policies alone won’t create new housing or keep existing homes in safe and livable condition.

Trial begins over NH proof-of-citizenship voter law

A federal judge heard opening arguments Monday, February 9, in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a 2024 state law that requires first-time voters in New Hampshire to show proof of U.S. citizenship when they register.

$2.75M record settlement with Disney and California DOJ

On February 11, 2026, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the largest enforcement settlement under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), resolving claims that The Walt Disney Company failed to adequately honor consumers’ opt-out rights — a core tenet of modern privacy law.

How banks help businesses manage cash flow

Our post-pandemic business environment has brought about myriad challenges that make cash flow forecasting much more difficult than it was five years ago. Many businesses are navigating supply chain challenges, volatile demand and lingering inflation — all key indicators of future cash flow.

The next evolution of workplace well-being

For a long time, workplace wellness was viewed through a fairly narrow lens: reminders to schedule an annual physical, a blood pressure screening, maybe a gym reimbursement. Those efforts still matter. But “wellness” has expanded, because the way we work and live has changed.

Sustainability leadership

When the path forward isn’t clear and feelings of overwhelm or despair are near, finding anchors in gratitude, horizon and context can steady our leadership through almost anything.

Concord City Council sets its priorities

Responsible monetary decisions. Clear and widely disseminated communication with the public, especially on the city’s finances and taxes. Helping people keep their homes and find new ones. Regulatory and cultural changes to make it easier for businesses and development, and investments in the roads, sewers and other infrastructure to support them.

The real ROI of AI

Over 20 years of working with New Hampshire business owners, I’ve noticed something consistent: The businesses that thrive aren’t the ones chasing every new trend. They’re the ones who know how to evaluate whether a new tool or strategy actually serves their goals.