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New England Pizza and Roast Beef, a cherished fixture in Rochester for over three decades, will permanently close on August 29, 2024.

 

Owner Jay Picard expressed heartfelt appreciation to loyal customers while citing mounting economic challenges and staffing shortages impacting the restaurant industry.

 

The beloved eatery, located at 195 Wakefield Street in Lilac Plaza, has been a gathering place for generations.

 

Planned renovations at Lilac Plaza contributed to the closure, as intermittent construction would have further disrupted business operations.

 

Picard will retain the rights to the name and secret recipes, leaving open the possibility of a future comeback.

 

With new developments like the nearby casino and hotel reshaping Rochester, many reflect on the loss of local staples. Residents are encouraged to savor one last meal and share memories before this local institution says goodbye.

Rochester, NH, is alive with friendly rivalry as locals debate whether cats or dogs are the ultimate companions.

 

Upcoming pet-friendly events offer chances to show off your favorite furry friend and connect with fellow animal lovers.

 

On August 2, downtown will come alive for Rochester PRIDE 2025, a welcoming celebration for both families and pets.

 

Later, on September 6, the Paws & Purpose fundraiser at Cornerstone VNA brings the community together to support Pet Peace of Mind, highlighting the special relationship between people and their pets.

 

No matter if you side with Team Cat or Team Dog, these gatherings promise a fun-filled way to engage and celebrate what makes our pets so special.

 

Join the conversation and let your voice be heard in Rochester’s lively pet debate!

Rochester Life and Times spotlights the week’s forecast with a cool, drizzly start on Wednesday, then warming up to sunny highs in the low 80s by Friday and Saturday.

 

Humidity returns Sunday, with a chance of afternoon storms by Tuesday.

 

Live music takes center stage with Mica’s Groove Train at Rochester Common on Wednesday, while the LILA Dance Festival brings cultural excitement on Saturday.

 

Race fans can catch the American–Canadian Tour at White Mountain Motorsports Park Friday and Saturday.

 

Spaulding High launches fall sports practices and school orientation.

 

Dine local with happy hour deals at Revolution Taproom & Grill and the new Brunch Club.

 

Enjoy family-friendly trails at Pickering Ponds for a perfect outdoor outing.

 

Looking ahead, mark your calendar for PorchFest next month, bringing live music to downtown Rochester.

The Brunch Club has brought fresh energy to Rochester’s dining scene with its grand opening at 150 Marketplace Blvd in May 2025.

 

Owner Connor McNamara, now a Rochester resident, saw the city’s need for a vibrant brunch spot and worked with his team to renovate, hire, and create an inviting space at The Ridge.

 

Locally sourced ingredients and scratch-made dishes define the menu, with flexible options for allergies, vegetarians, and vegans.

 

Community spirit shines through partnerships like the SHARE Fund food drive, where guest donations earn raffle entries and The Brunch Club matches contributions to support the city pantry.

 

The restaurant also uplifts local artists, rotating a gallery showcasing their work every six weeks.

 

Open daily with all-day brunch, dinner, and happy hour, The Brunch Club stands out as a welcoming new hub for Rochester.

Rochester, NH is set for a week of summer weather, with highs and humidity peaking midweek.

 

Wednesday, August 13, brings intense heat under sunny skies, but late-day thunderstorms could add some drama.

 

Thursday stays humid with partial clouds and more chances for afternoon storms.

 

Friday’s sunshine and lower humidity make it ideal for outdoor plans.

 

The weekend keeps things warm and mostly sunny, inviting families to enjoy local parks or trails.

 

Sunday could see pop-up storms, so keep plans flexible.

 

Cooler, comfortable air returns by Tuesday, August 19.

 

That evening, families can catch Disney’s Frozen at the Rochester Opera House at 6 PM—an ideal summer outing in the heart of downtown.

 

For more info, call (603) 335-1992.

Sprint Interval Training (SIT) is rapidly gaining ground in Rochester as a faster, more effective approach to fat loss compared to classic HIIT workouts.

 

Research reveals that SIT boosts fat loss by nearly 40% over HIIT, while slashing workout time by more than half.

 

With just 7 minutes per session, three times weekly, locals can see superior results — a shift that’s sparking fresh programs in area gyms.

 

Unlike HIIT’s longer moderate sprints, SIT insists on maximum effort, engaging every muscle fiber and triggering powerful after-burn effects for fat reduction.

 

This approach also strengthens the heart, boosts growth hormone, and preserves lean muscle, especially in the legs and core.

 

While SIT is accessible for beginners, anyone with heart or joint concerns should check with a doctor first.

 

For a leaner physique and busy schedule, local fitness enthusiasts are embracing SIT’s remarkable efficiency.

Reaching your 40s brings important changes to your body, making it essential to focus on flexibility and strength-building exercises for long-term health.

 

Natural aging impacts joints and muscles, which can limit mobility over time.

 

By adding targeted movements like deep squat holds, ankle rocks, and shoulder mobility exercises, you can stay agile and reduce injury risk.

 

Simple routines—such as shoulder flossing or cat-cow stretches—help counteract stiffness and support a more active, independent lifestyle.

 

Prioritizing these habits every day keeps you feeling strong and engaged with the activities you love.

 

For added support, local fitness experts in Rochester, NH are available to create personalized programs for your needs.

 

Commit to these strategies to preserve your vitality and independence as you age.

Looking for a great car at a price you’ll love?

 

CarMonster Auto and Truck Sales in Rochester, NH, is highlighting its Monster Deal: a 2016 White Chevrolet Chevelle, featuring automatic transmission and 129,000 miles.

 

This vehicle has undergone a thorough inspection for quality and reliability, standing out as an affordable, high-value option.

 

With prices below book value, CarMonster is dedicated to helping you find top-notch used cars at unbeatable rates.

 

This offer won’t last, so call 603-817-0165 to schedule your test drive and experience what sets CarMonster apart.

 

While you’re in town, join the fun at Rochester’s National Night Out on August 5, 2025, at Spaulding High School’s Torr’s Park.

 

Families can look forward to a petting zoo, pony rides, live music, and community-building activities.

 

Contact Nicole Rodler at (603) 330-7149 for event info and stay tuned with CarMonster for more offers and local news.

The City of Rochester is gearing up for major infrastructure improvements starting August 2025, focusing on public safety and modernizing key areas.

 

The Bridge Street Bridge over the Cocheco River will close completely to vehicles for extensive repairs, with reopening set for October.

 

While traffic will be redirected to River Street, local property owners near North Main Street will get coordinated access.

 

Pedestrians can still cross, though temporary detours will be managed as needed.

 

Work will target deck repairs, sidewalk upgrades, and storm drain improvements.

 

Spaulding Avenue and Flat Rock Bridge Road, both spanning the Salmon Falls River, will also see deck repairs beginning in August.

 

One-way traffic patterns will help limit congestion during construction, which intensifies from mid-September to late October.

 

Additionally, the Union Street parking lot downtown will get a $1.75 million eco-friendly overhaul, adding EV charging and modern stormwater controls.

 

Drivers and residents should watch for updates and adjust routes during construction.

Women over 40 in Rochester, NH can boost their health and vitality during menopause by embracing strength training.

 

As people age, muscle mass and bone density naturally decrease, raising the risk of osteoporosis and frailty.

 

Regular strength training helps counter these changes, supporting overall wellness and independence.

 

Rochester offers specialized fitness options for this life stage.

 

At High Tide Strength Club, women enjoy personalized powerlifting coaching—whether in-person or online—catering to all abilities and building both strength and confidence.

 

Hungry Hearts NH provides group classes that blend strength, mobility, and conditioning in a supportive setting suitable for diverse fitness levels.

 

The Senior Power Hour at Rochester Recreation & Arena, running for over ten years, empowers seniors with a focus on fitness, independence, and community connection led by experienced instructors.

 

Through these programs, women support their health and foster meaningful community bonds.

As women in Rochester, NH, move through menopause, the changes they experience can affect heart health.

 

Prioritizing quality sleep is essential, as getting 7-9 hours each night helps maintain healthy blood pressure and lowers the risk of heart disease.

 

Women should also monitor their blood pressure, since high blood pressure can go unnoticed and significantly increase cardiovascular risk.

 

Maintaining healthy blood glucose by choosing whole grains, fruit, and vegetables, paired with regular exercise, safeguards arteries and the heart over time.

 

Avoiding smoking is critical, as quitting delivers rapid heart-health benefits, often within the first day.

 

Rochester offers resources such as health screenings and educational programs to empower women on their wellness journey.

 

By embracing these habits, local women can lower risks and protect their heart for years to come.

Rochester Recreation & Arena welcomes back the popular Concert on the Common series every Wednesday evening from July 9 through August 27, 2025, at the Rochester Common.

 

This free, family-friendly event brings a wide mix of live music, offering everything from rock, pop, and acoustic to jazz, blues, reggae, and classics spanning the 1950s to today.

 

Performances feature local favorites including 3 ALARM, Truffle, Key Elements, and Mango Groove Steel Band, promising entertainment for attendees of all ages. Concerts run 6:30–8:00 pm in July and shift to 6:00–7:30 pm in August, with rain dates on Thursdays.

 

Recent highlights in Rochester include the grand opening of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce’s new downtown office, as well as groundbreaking on The Rapids on Cocheco, a new 52-unit workforce housing project by Elm Grove Companies.

 

These milestones underscore Rochester’s dedication to community vibrancy and inclusive growth.

A cyclist was injured in a bike accident Thursday evening at the intersection of School Street and Harrison Avenue in Rochester, NH.

 

Emergency crews responded quickly at around 6:13 p.m., providing immediate care for the cyclist’s facial injury before transporting them to a local hospital for further evaluation.

 

Authorities have not yet confirmed the accident’s cause or whether any vehicles were involved. The Rochester Police Department is actively investigating the incident.

 

Accidents like this highlight the importance of bicycle safety in Rochester’s busy intersections. Cyclists are reminded to wear helmets and reflective gear, while motorists are urged to stay alert and share the road responsibly.

 

Improving bike lanes and promoting awareness can make Rochester safer for everyone. Our thoughts are with the injured cyclist and their family.

 

Holy Rosary Credit Union has awarded a record 18 scholarships this year to students in Rochester, highlighting its strong commitment to supporting local youth. The recipients, a mix of high school and college students, children of employees, and participants from a financial services program, were celebrated at a special ceremony at the Rochester branch on June 16. To qualify for the scholarships, applicants needed to be HRCU members and meet certain requirements. This year, a new online portal made the application process more accessible. Over the past three decades, HRCU has provided 296 scholarships totaling more than $300,000. Beyond these scholarships, the credit union actively supports local development and various community projects. HRCU leaders emphasize that investing in students strengthens Rochester’s future and reflects the organization's long-standing dedication to the city’s growth. The next round of scholarship applications will open online in January 2026.

The food you choose each day has a profound impact on your overall well-being. Nutritious meals filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provide your body with the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it needs to function at its best. Incorporating more plant-based options can lower your risk for chronic illnesses and also encourage a sustainable lifestyle. On the other hand, consuming too many processed foods and sugars can leave you feeling lethargic and may harm your health over time. What you eat doesn’t just affect your physical health; it also shapes your mental wellness. Nutrient-rich foods help improve brain performance and stabilize mood by supporting the production of key neurotransmitters. When paired with regular exercise—whether it’s HIIT, yoga, or activities like hiking—these healthy choices boost energy, mental clarity, and resilience. Every good meal and vigorous workout is an investment in a more energetic and resilient you.

Rochester, NH’s real estate market in mid-2025 is showing strong growth and heightened activity. May saw the median home listing price climb to around $382,450, a notable 7.1% jump from the previous month, highlighting persistent demand. Although prices are rising, the median sale price in April stood at $400,000, up 2.6% from last year, indicating steady but moderate annual growth. Homes are selling quickly, typically spending about 29 days on the market, though this is almost double the pace seen last year. Inventory has grown sharply with 32 homes listed in May, a 220% increase from April, giving buyers more options and signaling that sellers are keen to leverage current conditions. Despite the competitive landscape, around 43% of homes sold below asking price, suggesting negotiation remains possible. Staying informed and working with knowledgeable local realtors will be key for anyone looking to buy or sell in this evolving market.

The Rochester Recreation & Arena Department is bringing back its popular “Concert on the Common” series, promising a season of free Wednesday night concerts at Rochester Common from July 9 to August 27, 2025. Shows will start at 6:30 pm in July and 6:00 pm in August, with music wrapping up by sunset. Residents and visitors are invited to bring chairs or blankets and enjoy an array of genres from blues and rock to jazz and soul. This year’s lineup features returning favorites like North River Music and Tin Palace, alongside new acts such as The Cameron Drive Project and Senie Hunt with Chris O’Neill. If weather threatens an event, concerts will move to Thursday when possible. Concert updates will be shared on the Rochester Recreation & Arena website and social channels. Organizers encourage families and music lovers of all ages to gather downtown and savor these vibrant summer evenings.

New Hampshire will end its annual vehicle inspection requirement starting January 31, 2026, following a major policy change included in the new state budget signed by Governor Kelly Ayotte. The decision has sparked strong reactions from residents, auto dealers, and safety advocates. Supporters argue the inspections are outdated and expensive, pointing to modern car safety and the financial burden of up to $50 per vehicle each year. House Majority Leader Jason Osborne cited public demand for the repeal. However, critics, including the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association and its president Dan Bennett, warn that dropping inspections could lead to more accidents, as seen in other states that eliminated similar programs. Mechanics expect some loss in business but note vehicle repairs will still be necessary. The state faces an estimated $3.5 million annual loss in revenue, money that supports local road projects, leaving questions about future funding. Residents are urged to maintain vehicle safety despite the rule change.

Rochester is gearing up for an eventful weekend packed with entertainment and community activities. On Friday, June 27, 2025, the Rochester Opera House will feature “Blue Collar Men: The Music of STYX with Panorama,” offering fans a lively tribute to the classic rock band in a memorable, historic venue. Creativity also takes center stage at the Rochester Public Library, which continues to provide a variety of hands-on craft sessions for all ages, including recent events like tie-dye workshops and relaxing art activities. For those looking to connect with local professionals, the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Business After Hours gathering at The Garage at The Governor’s Inn on June 27, 2024. Attendees can enjoy live music by The Middlemen, light refreshments, and valuable networking opportunities. Together, these diverse happenings promise an exciting blend of arts, crafts, and community spirit throughout Rochester.