Portsmouth Gears Up for First Night Celebration

On a day that many note as truly unique — 11-12-13 — Pro Portsmouth unveiled their one of a kind First Night Portsmouth Logo at The Sheraton Portsmouth.

The logo artwork selected for First Night Portsmouth was created by Jessica Packer; the logo will appear on all First Night Buttons and merchandise. Second place was awarded to Carolyn Vibbert and third to Tom Woodhouse.

A First Night “Battle of the Bands PLUS” takes place on New Year’s Eve at the “new” Connie Bean (Middle School). The PLUS was added to include choral groups as well as other styles of music.

“We wanted to be more inclusive and feature other up and coming musicians,” noted Pro Portsmouth’s Executive Director, Barbara Massar. Interested musicians and performers should submit a CD or YouTube link along with information about their group to info@proportsmouth.org. The deadline is December 1st.

Back by Popular Demand

The Shareholders’ Community Initiative for First Night returns with the featured “Show Us the Button” program. Businesses are encouraged to purchase shares and offer specials to those showing them the First Night 2014 Button during the first quarter of 2014. According to Massar, it’s a way for businesses to support First Night and increase traffic to their restaurants and shops in the traditionally quiet, post-holiday period.

A special “Show Us the Button” web page will link all participating shareholders to their respective sites as well as note all specials available to those wearing the Button. Individuals and businesses — large and small — are encouraged to sign on as First Night Shareholders. Depending on levels, shareholders receive benefits such as web logo and links, inclusion in eNewsletters and banners at the event on December 31st.

Shares’ information is available at: http://www.proportsmouth.org/shareholders.cfm.

Citizens Bank was recognized as a returning Program Partner.

“At Citizens Bank, we believe it is important to give back to the local communities we serve,” said Joe Carelli, President of Citizens Bank, New Hampshire. “We are thrilled to partner with Pro Portsmouth throughout the year to showcase Portsmouth’s vital arts, history and culture. First Night and all of the events planned for the coming season will bring thousands of visitors to Portsmouth to experience all that the community offers.”

Additional Corporate Sponsors and Underwriters are also being sought to support the event as well as the annual program of events. Including the cost of fireworks, ice sculpture and performances the organization needs to raise over $40K.

“Over the years, First Night Portsmouth has become another destination event on the Seacoast,” says Executive Director, Barbara Massar. “We are able to attract and entertain not only our friends and neighbors, but people who travel from all over the country to spend the holidays with us, enjoy great music, restaurants and hotels. But in order to keep the event on the calendar, we need everyone’s support.”

As one of only two remaining First Night cities in New Hampshire, Pro Portsmouth believes that this event is vital to the continued success enjoyed by Portsmouth as a destination for family, friends and neighbors from down the street and around the world.

First Nighters will be able to enjoy a wide range of music and dance. The Button is your pass to hours of great entertainment from 4pm to midnight on December 31st.

The First Night Button is your ticket for all entertainment. The Button is now available online a twww.proportsmouth.org . Locally, the Button may be purchased at the Hannaford on Islington Street beginning December 1st; additional sales’ locations will be posted on the website.

Pro Portsmouth will also offering online only specials: the ‘Stocking Stuffer’ and 2Fer for First Night Buttons through December 26th.

It takes upwards of 125 Volunteers to make First Night happen. All Volunteers receive the exclusive First Night Volunteer Sweat shirt and Button. To be a part of this great celebration as a Volunteer, contact Nicole McShane at (603) 433-4398 Ext. 4 or volunteer@proportsmouth.org.

For more information on First Night® and all Pro Portsmouth, Inc. events visit the website at www.proportsmouth.org or call 603-433-4398.