Hampton Beach reports smooth summer programming, vows to make up for Fourth fireworks glitch

Amanda Morneault, Entertainment Director for the Hampton Beach Village District, told the board on July 8 that the summer season "is going great for the season" and reminded residents and visitors that "all entertainment at the Beach is free." She announced the Niko Moone show for the following day (no tickets required) and a Rat Pack Tribute show scheduled for Monday, July 13.

Co-Marketing Directors Amanda Olmstead and Lisa Martineau briefed the board on promotional work and logistics. Olmstead said posters have been placed for the Talent Competition and the Key West performance, bags for the Children's Fest have been ordered, and banners for the Fire Show are in hand. She said the office is preparing proposals for next-year advertising, noting interest from Rhode Island Monthly and possible video advertising with NBC and Peacock.

Martineau said fireworks would start that night but reported "there was a malfunction with the fireworks on the 4th. However, we got through it." Chairman Chuck Rage said the problem was with connections and added, "They could not do the finale. They will make it up to us." Martineau raised traffic and safety concerns tied to events and suggested coordinating with the Police Department and exploring use of drones or lifeguards for crowd management.

Marketing staff also discussed camera plans (a proposed sunrise view and a camera on Boulevard North) and extending the district's presence to YouTube. Martineau said she is working on a scavenger hunt beginning next week with gift-card prizes and is trying to schedule a Car Show for Sept. 19.

Commissioner Maureen Buckley asked who authorized video being taken in the band area; Martineau said the footage is used to create promotional material, and Buckley said she would like to discuss authorization further with Martineau.

During public comment, Chris Marshall of 375 Ocean Blvd. asked about the status of least terns/plovers; Chairman Rage said the birds "have not been affected" and that the district stays "in constant contact with Fish & Game." Martineau added an anecdote that a visitor had driven from Texas to attend the beach events.

The board took no formal action on entertainment or marketing items during the meeting. Staff said they will follow up on traffic coordination, promotional approvals and the fireworks vendor's plan to compensate for the July 4 malfunction.