Family Owned Insurance Agency Experienced Insurance Agents

Visit the Newburyport Office or Request a Quote

Cross Insurance, a family owned independent insurance agency, and their Newburyport insurance agents are ready to assist North Shore customers. The local team of agents provide exceptional customer service with coverage options across an extensive range of personal insurance product, with strong support for commercial insurance customers as well. Visit the Cross Insurance office, conveniently located in Newburyport’s Port Plaza Shopping Center or call to request an insurance quote.

As one of the largest independent insurance agencies in New England, Cross Insurance and its dependable team of insurance agents are able to offer a wide range of personal insurance solutions. Enjoy the convenience of working with one local insurance agency for all of your insurance needs including: homeowners, renters, auto, boat, RV, and umbrella insurance policies as well as health insurance, life insurance and many specialty products too.

Established in 1954, this rapidly growing insurance agency has acquired more than 120 operations since its founding and can provide a range of commercial insurance products for small and large companies. Cross Insurance is one of the leading New England insurance intermediaries, enabling them to support the constantly evolving insurance needs of their broad customer base. Cross Insurance agents offer many lines of coverage including: vehicle fleets, buildings, contents, general & professional liability, cyber liability, workers compensation, employee benefits and bonds.

If you’re a North Shore local looking for an insurance agency to support one or more of your personal or business needs, Cross Insurance’s Newburyport office is eager to work with you. Whether you need a quote for a new line of service or an existing policy up for renewal, give a call to the local Cross Insurance team. With their experience, operations, and knowledgeable insurance agents, they’re ready and available to start your unique insurance conversation today.

Cross Insurance

By Hannah Brown , Newburyport.Com Correspondent, Regional Sales Executive, Personal Lines
I’ve worked in the insurance business for over 15 years and held many different positions within the industry. Working for Cross Insurance has afforded me the resources to put my knowledge to use within the community. What drew me to Cross Insurance was the ability to help people with any insurance need they may have, while still maintaining the feel and service of a small agency. I want to fully protect my clients but also educate them about the coverage we provide. It’s important to me that they feel a part of the process. At the heart of it all, Cross is a family owned business who values hard work and relationships. We look forward to not only helping people in the area protect the things that are most valuable to them, but also to exploring and supporting our new community.

Boat Insurance in MA – Information Boat Owners Should Know

Boat Insurance, Cross Insurance Newburyport

Protecting You Out on the Water
While boat insurance may be the last thing on your mind when you are out on the water, having your boat covered not only gives you peace of mind, but can provide you with a financial safety net for things like injuries or theft. Whether it’s sailing, fishing, or speeding along, boating is a wonderful way to experience the beautiful lakes, rivers, and bays of Massachusetts.

What Can Boat Insurance Cover?
Coverage for physical damage to a boat is one of the most obvious reasons to have a policy. However, liability can be an even more important reason to consider having boat insurance. In fact, many private marinas and docks may also ask you for proof of insurance before they let you dock your boat at their property. It is also important to be prepared for the unexpected such as hurricanes, theft or vandalism.

Does My Homeowners Policy Cover My Boat?
You may be thinking- wait, does my homeowners insurance policy cover my boat as well? In most instances, home insurance policies do not provide adequate coverage to protect your boat. To see what coverages you may need, reach out to a local insurance agent. Cross Insurance- Newburyport is conveniently located in the Port Plaza Shopping Center.

Boat Insurance Quotes

It is important to meet with an experienced insurance agent who can help recommend the right solution based on your specific circumstances. Boat insurance coverage will depend on the type of boat you have, the value of the boat and a number of other factors as well. Cross Insurance- Newburyport offers a broad scope of insurance products. Cross is an independent insurance agency, and can help recommend the best insurance carrier to meet your needs. Policy discounts may be available if the insurance carrier is providing coverage for more than one policy. Let a local agent from the Newburyport Cross Insurance team help navigate the process.

Financial Planning - Experienced Financial Advisors

Seacoast Wealth Management – Providing Clarity to Your Financial Future

Financial Planning with a local team of experienced financial advisors is, in our view, the optimal path to future stability and peace of mind. With almost 60 years of combined financial industry experience, Seacoast Wealth Management has developed a strong client-base throughout the North Shore of Massachusetts, Seacoast NH, Boston and beyond. The Seacoast Wealth Management team is able to provide a proactive, tailored approach to financial planning while also providing exceptional responsiveness for their clients. Seasoned financial advisors work with clients to clearly define financial and personal goals, enabling a more secure future.

As experienced financial planners, they are aware that global happenings and personal life changes are inevitable, making it essential for investment strategies to be adaptable. Financial advisors work with clients to define short term projects and long term retirement planning goals. As part of the ongoing process, Seacoast Wealth Management advisors meet with clients to review goals, make updates if necessary and to confirm that the goals and strategy are aligned.

Seacoast Wealth Management offers a broad scope of financial planning services including: investment management & consulting, insurance planning, trust & estate planning, cash management & lending as well as alternative investments. Take financial planning off of the to-do-list and schedule a meeting to review your specific needs with a Seacoast Wealth Management financial advisor.

Seacoast Wealth Management of Steward Partners

By Gary Walker , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Gary Walker serves as New England Sales Director, Founding Partner and Wealth Manager for Seacoast Wealth Management of Steward Partners located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Gary brings 20 years of experience in creating financial planning strategies, asset allocation models as well as support with corporate retirement plans. Gary’s practice focuses primarily on high-net-worth individuals and families as well as business owners. Gary works with clients by first listening to clients’ financial situation, goals and aspirations. He then assists clients in designing a long-term investment plan based on the fundamentals of asset allocation, and provides guidance in choosing investments best suited for a client’s needs. Gary earned his BS in Accounting and Finance from Worcester State College. He also earned the designation of Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS) from the College of Financial Planning. Gary, his wife Kim and two children, Grayson and Kolby, reside in Kensington, New Hampshire. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, fishing and volunteer coaching for youth sports.

Money Markets & CDs: Stepping Out Of Cash

Money Markets and CDs, Seacoast Wealth Management, Portsmouth NH

With the 10th interest rate hike in 14 months, the Federal Funds Rate is currently 4.75%-5% and, unlike some investments, Money Market and Certificate of Deposits have benefitted tremendously.

For many years, money market funds and certificates of deposits were highly sought out investments. But, as we experienced a low interest rate environment during the market’s previous 10+ year bull run, they had decreased in popularity as they were subsequentially low-yielding investments and other investments were comparatively more attractive. Now that rates are on the rise and are projected to be elevated for longer, these investments have re-gained in popularity. Here’s why:

What are today’s rates (as of 5/5/2023)?

Money market mutual funds: 2-5%
1-year CD: as high as 5%

What is the risk profile of these instruments?

Money market funds can be comprised of a mix of underlying investments that are generally high-quality, short-term debt securities. Mutual Fund Money Market Funds are designed to maintain a net asset value (NAV) of $1.00/share and provide interest distributions to the shareholder as the primary source of an investor’s return. Unlike a CD, the yield or interest an investor receives is variable and will change with the yield of the underlying securities. While Mutual Fund Money Market funds are considered a “cash equivalent”, they are not insured by the FDIC.

Certificate of deposits are issued and held at banks, which means they can be insured by the FDIC up to $250,000 per bank. Unlike a money market fund, the yield or interest you receive is a fixed rate that is determined at the time of purchase. Established by the Banking Act of 1933, the FDIC insures your money in the event of bank failure.

How do I get my money back?

Money markets and certificate of deposits have different liquidity profiles. Money market funds are liquid daily, meaning you can pull your money out at any time and will take one day for the trade to settle. If an investor redeems before market close, their funds will be available the next trading day.

Certificates of deposits cannot be accessed until maturity date, so they are considered less liquid. The trade-off is that you will be locking in the interest rate at the time of purchase. Keep in mind, brokered CDs sold prior to maturity may be worth less or more than face value.

Where do these fit in my portfolio?

Money market funds and certificate of deposits have been a great “first step” on the risk ladder for clients sitting on high cash positions. As inflation continuously erodes the value of cash, these have been a great way to hedge elevated inflation and take advantage of interest rates we have not seen since May of 2006. For money market funds, we have been utilizing short-term cash in low-yielding interest rate accounts. This way, if a client needs their money, we can get it back to them next day.

Certificate of deposits have been great for investors sitting on cash with a longer time horizon given their liquidity profile. If a client wants to hold onto their money for over a year, a CD might make sense.

Now what?

We are advising clients to assess their idle cash positions to ensure they are taking advantage of the low-risk, cash management opportunities while rates remain elevated. In an inflationary environment this is ever more important. Please contact us to see what cash management strategies might make the most sense for you.

The views expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Steward Partners or its affiliates. All opinions are subject to change without notice. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. The strategies and/or investments discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. Steward Partners recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Wealth Manager. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives.

CDs are insured by the FDIC, an independent agency of the U.S. Government, up to a maximum of $250,000 (including principal and accrued interest) for all deposits held in the same insurable capacity (e.g. individual account, joint account, IRA etc.) per CD depository. Investors are responsible for monitoring the total amount held with each CD depository. All deposits at a single depository held in the same insurable capacity will be aggregated for the purposes of the applicable FDIC insurance limit, including deposits (such as bank accounts) maintained directly with the depository and CDs of the depository.

For more information visit the FDIC website at www.fdic.gov.

An investment in a money market fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the fund.

Mutual funds are sold by prospectus. Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives and risks as well as charges and expenses of mutual funds including the underlying portfolios before investing. To obtain a prospectus, contact your Wealth Manager. The prospectus contains this and other information about the investment. Read the prospectus carefully before investing.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, registered broker/dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, and SEC registered investment adviser.   Investment Advisory Services may also be offered through Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser.   Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, and Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC are affiliates and separately operated.  <Team Name>Seacoast Wealth Management is a team at Steward Partners.

AdTrax 5669912.1 Exp 6/23

2023 Market Outlook

Investing, in most cases, is best approached with a long-term perspective, however assessing near-term risks in the market is vital in evaluating the health of financial plans as well as

Tax Loss Harvesting Roth Conversions, Seacoast NH & North Shore MA

Tax Loss Harvesting & Roth Conversions – Ideas For A Down Year

Tax Loss Harvesting and Roth Conversions are two strategies that can help many of our Seacoast NH and North Shore MA clients make the best of a down year. 2022

Capital Gain Distributions, Mutual Funds, Newburyport

Capital Gain Distributions on Mutual Funds, What You Should Know

In a year where most asset classes have seen significant losses, it is hard to comprehend a mutual fund paying out a capital gain at the end of this year.

Address: 145 Maplewood Ave. STE 100, Portsmouth, NH 03801

Phone: 603.427.8855

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, registered broker/dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, and SEC registered investment adviser.   Investment Advisory Services may also be offered through Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser.   Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, and Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC are affiliates and separately operated.  Seacoast Wealth Management is a team at Steward Partners.

Mortgages & Home Loans - CrossCountry

Local Mortgage Experts | Low Rates |Fast Process | Exceptional Service | Experienced Brokers

As a residential mortgages industry leader, CrossCountry Mortgage has established a reputation as one of the country’s most trusted mortgage lenders specializing in home loans and providing the convenience of working with experienced loan officers in local markets, such as Newburyport. CrossCountry Mortgage has set the standard for exceptional customer satisfaction with the use of innovative technology and a streamlined simplistic application and approval process. The local Newburyport branch has a proven track record of providing excellent service for many customers throughout the Massachusetts North Shore, Southern NH Seacoast and Southern ME region.

In addition to providing highly responsive customer care, CrossCountry Mortgage is able to service a broad scope of customer mortgage needs due to their extensive portfolio of home loan products including Purchase Loans and Refinance as well as specialized products such as: VA Loans, FHA Loans, Renovation Loans, Jumbo Loans, and many more. With this robust selection of lending products, CrossCountry Mortgage has a solution for each of their customer’s individual needs.

CrossCountry Mortgage has been able to achieve exceptional customer satisfaction results for their mortgage customers due to the fact that they very closely manage the loan process ensuring that all of the many important steps have been accurately completed. The lending process can be complex but the team at CrossCountry has many years of experience handling the details and simplifying the mortgage experience for their customers. CrossCountry Mortgage keeps the process in house: underwriting, processing & direct funding, enabling themselves to control the many steps of mortgages, thus ensuring happy customers.

If you prefer to focus on your new dream home or how you might utilize the savings from your refinanced loan, then we highly recommend a call to Liz Ryan. Let the mortgage experts at CrossCountry do the heavy lifting. With their exceptional customer care, broad product portfolio and strong industry experience, CrossCountry Mortgage is the Best of Newburyport Residential Mortgage Company.

CrossCountry Mortgage

By Liz Ryan , Newburyport.com Correspondent
Sales Manager for the Newburyport CrossCountry Mortgage regional office, Liz Ryan is a top producing Senior Loan Officer with extensive experience in the mortgage industry since 2005 and a prior background in real estate. Born in Sweden and raised with a “can do” attitude and great work ethic, Liz is a consistent Chairman’s Circle member and has served as a strong mentor for the rapidly growing Newburyport office, supporting customers in MA, NH and ME. Liz is highly respected by her local finance industry peers and greatly appreciated by her extensive following of loyal customers. Her passion for serving clients is apparent. Liz enjoys working with customers from all walks of life with a broad range of financial needs. Whether they are purchasing their first home, a vacation home, an investment property; or they need assistance with a refinance or a more specialized loan product such as a VA Loan, Liz always excited to help.

Refinance Your Mortgage…Factors to Consider with a Refi

Refi Evaluation: term & debt consolidation

Refinance your mortgage? When considering a refi, you’ll want to evaluate your particular situation—not just the interest rates and global environment.

In preparation for a refinance, you’ll want to ask yourself important questions. How long do you intend to live in your current home? Should you refinance to a new 30 year mortgage extending the time it will take to own your home? Are you in a position to consider a shorter term enabling you to pay less interest over the course of the loan? Changing the term on a mortgage (for example, from 30 years to 15 years) can help you achieve specific financial goals. Shortening your mortgage term may help you avoid penalty clauses if you plan to pay off your loan early. If you refi with a shorter term, you will pay less interest over the life of your loan. You may also be able to extend your repayment term if needed.

When considering a refinance make sure to look at the big picture. Do you have other loans? Are there major expenses that you need to plan for: college, weddings or home renovations? Consolidating multiple debts into one easy-to-manage loan can make life easier and potentially save you money, particularly if other debts feature higher interest rates. Converting multiple mortgages into one mortgage can make repayment simpler and potentially save you money.

Make sure you have access to an industry-leading tool like the CrossCountry refinance calculator to help you decide if refinancing your home makes sound financial sense.

Other Refinance Considerations:

Besides mortgage rates, there are charges and fees that must be considered when determining the costs of a refinance.

Closing Costs

Closing costs are expenses over and above the price of the property that are incurred by buyers and sellers when transferring ownership of a property. They normally include an origination fee, charges for title insurance and escrow costs, etc.

In addition to your down payment, you’ll be responsible for paying closing costs — the fees that CrossCountry Mortgage and other parties charge as part of the home financing process.

Closing costs and fees can be paid at the time of closing or they can be wrapped into the new mortgage. It may be appealing to have costs wrapped into the loan but it is important to consider whether you will realize the the lower interest rate savings before you sell your home.

If you need assistance refinancing your mortgage or are considering any type of home loan products, contact the local CrossCountry Mortgage office and they will help guide you through the process. Liz Ryan NMLS ID: 441907 – NMLS ID #3029 (For licensing information, go to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply.

Custom Home Builder & Renovations Team Exceeding Customer Expectations

The Joppa Group Construction Management – Premier Newburyport Craftsmen

The Joppa Group, a local Newburyport custom home builder with a strong reputation for building customized homes and managing complex home renovations, brings unmatched service, knowledge, and experience to the area. If you have a vision, this premier construction company has the ability to make it a reality. How does the Joppa Group differentiate itself from other builders? It starts with their commitment to providing exceptional service. The Joppa Group service standards were developed utilizing customer specific input, with a strong focus on clear communications, attention to detail, innovative solutions—and of course—top quality finish work.

In an industry where home builders often over promise and under deliver, The Joppa Group’s renovations team makes customer communication a strong priority. They invest time prior to the start of construction in order to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction. The Joppa Group works hard to gain a clear understanding of customer requirements, clarify project details, offer alternative solutions for consideration, and document the project plan in order to ensure that the execution is aligned with the customer’s vision. The Joppa Group knows first-hand that to be a top custom home builder takes considerable time investment, therefore they are selective with their work and careful to avoid taking on more construction projects than they can manage. They prioritize each customer and dedicate the time and resources necessary to ensure top notch craftsmanship. The Joppa Group strives to exceed customer expectations.

As an experienced builder of custom homes, the Joppa Group realizes that even with a clearly defined plan, there are often variables that may cause the original project scope to change. Understanding the nature of home renovations, the Joppa Group team is able to quickly adapt and always ready to explain options and offer creative solutions that often provide potential to enhance the original plan. While The Joppa Group works on a broad range of construction projects, they have a passion for renovating older homes and the experience essential to anticipate challenges and overcome common obstacles. As a premier custom home builder, they understand how to preserve the integrity, charm, and character of old homes while integrating modern conveniences, upgraded amenities, and maximizing the use of space. Their skilled craftsmen are known for carefully transforming historic homes into beautifully renovated useful spaces. The Joppa Group has tremendous experience navigating the zoning and permit requirements that a construction company must manage to successfully renovate Newburyport’s historic homes. They also make safety a top priority, inspecting job sites daily to ensure the safety of customers and the Joppa team.

The Joppa Group was founded in 2016 by owner and Newburyport native Blake Wilcox. Blake enlists a team of equally skilled craftsmen that bring specialized expertise to each home renovation project. Blake’s background as a real estate developer strengthens his position as a top residential and commercial builder. He is used to managing projects with tight deadlines and effectively managing a budget. In addition, he has strong relationships with his sub-contractors and exceptional communication and project management skills. Blake’s background combined with his experienced team of craftsmen and relentless determination to produce top quality projects is why the Joppa Group is able to exceed customer expectations.

Whether you’re considering a home renovation, a custom build, or designing a commercial space, The Joppa Group is ready to bring your vision to life.

Joppa Group

By Blake Wilcox , Newburyport.com Correspondent
Owner, and Newburyport native, Blake founded The Joppa Group in 2016, enlisting a team of highly skilled craftsmen that bring specialized expertise and detailed project management to each home renovation project. Blake's background as a real estate developer has strengthened his position as a top residential and commercial builder. Blake brings tremendous experience managing relationships with sub-contractors as well as meeting tight deadlines, and adhering to a strict budget. His relentless determination to deliver exceptional results, is why the Joppa Group is able to exceed customer expectations.

New Construction Meets Historic Homes of Newburyport

Historic Homes of Newburyport, new construction

At The Joppa Group, we have specialized custom craftsmen to usher Newburyport’s historic homes into the 21st century, combining a blend of interior new construction layouts and designs while protecting and preserving the historic facade and charm of our homes. Redesigning historic homes for today’s uses requires a complex and time tested process of careful planning and intelligent craftsmanship. Open concept layouts and vaulted ceilings are not what post and beam homes were designed for and often are not what they are even capable of structurally without significant repair.

It all starts with a vision of how the space will be used for today’s needs, recognizing limitations of the space and developing clever designs that often blend the character of a historic home into a modern layout. Our process often demands that we quite literally build a new construction home inside the existing historic home. We do this in such a way, that if you were to remove the original historic structure there would still be a new home standing there. Our goal is always to maintain unique attributes of historic homes, especially if they add to the structural integrity such as chimneys or wooden support beams constructed from ships. Other features that clients frequently want to maintain are built-in china cabinets, fireplaces, elaborate ceiling moldings, mantles, and other class wood carvings.

As an experienced custom home builder, this is the level of care and attention we put into the basic framing. Our true passion comes to life when we wrap the kitchen in custom cabinetry and tile work worthy of a magazine cover. Our vision transforms into reality everywhere as we layer in thousands of feet of custom trim work through bedrooms, hallways, living rooms, and mudrooms. The final image is accented by custom lighting and splashes of texture. Whether it’s a bold doorknob made of glass or a glass door entering a custom built pantry, our spaces are meant to pull the dreams from inside your imagination and lay them out for the world to see and experience.

Newburyport Family Law Practice with a Team of Experienced Divorce Lawyers

Rebuild A Strong Stable Future

The divorce lawyers from Newburyport Family Law Practice, Turco Legal are a highly experienced team of top divorce attorneys committed to helping guide clients to a brighter future. The team approach is a important element of the Turco Legal approach that has been found to be highly beneficial for clients. The combined effort of multiple divorce lawyers versus just one can certainly be more efficient and can also result in more thoughtful solutions developed from a broader scope of collaborative knowledge and experience.

Working with an experienced Newburyport Divorce Attorney and Family Law Practice is the key to building a strong stable future for yourself and your family. Divorce is one of the most significant emotional and financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. You don’t need a new best friend. You need a trusted and experienced adviser who can help you make informed decisions.

It is critical to choose a family law practice with an experienced divorce lawyer who can assist clients with the many complex decisions that must be considered throughout the divorce process. Many of these decisions will have long-term implications, so make sure you understand the ramifications of your decisions. It is critical to work with a Newburyport Divorce Attorney and Family Law Practice with tremendous experience helping families navigate these stressful times. Damian Turco of Turco Legal has seen every scenario imaginable, giving him the knowledge to advise his clients regarding the many complex issues associated with divorce. He is a good listener and asks critical questions to help his clients make decisions that will enable them to move their lives in a positive direction.

Every situation is unique and knowledge of divorce law trends and legal precedence from other cases can be critical knowledge that is more efficiently gathered and analyzed by a team of divorce lawyers. With the many complex legal issues, it is essential to develop a strategy for addressing key issues.

How will you determine an appropriate and fair amount of child support
Duration of time child support should be paid and what it should cover
Health insurance and other uninsured health care costs
What other expenses can a court order paid
What if your child has scholastic or medical needs that exceed approved support
Tax dependency exemption
Alimony guidelines and timelines
Fair and reasonable property division

If your looking for a top Newburyport Divorce Attorney and Family Law Practice give a call to Turco Legal and let Damian and his team help give you peace of mind and guide you to a brighter future.

By Damian Turco , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Founder & Principal Attorney of Turco Legal, Attorney Turco is highly regarded as an expert in the areas of divorce and family law. He has represented hundreds of clients through divorces, modifications, contempt matters, and other family law matters from beginning to end. He sits on multiple committees for the Mass Bar Association, has been recognized by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly as one of the state’s upcoming top 25 lawyers of 2015. Attorney Turco’s donates considerable time to help within the community. He serves on the board of LARC, a legal non-profit that helps thousands of lower income folks get desperately needed legal help. He also volunteers his time monthly delivering legal assistance at homeless shelters, day shelters, and soup kitchen’s in Boston, Lowell, Lawrence, and Salem.

Trends in Massachusetts Divorce Law: Equality and Structure

Turco Legal, Divorce Law Trends, Newburyport MA

Divorce law trends are moving in a direction of equality and structure. Divorce may seem like a modern issue. That is, it sometimes seems like one of those problems with society that’s far worse now than it used to be. Perhaps that’s because it’s the type of thing that nobody seems to discuss until it’s happening to them, especially not in a tight community like Newburyport. Or maybe because it is consistently ranked as one of the greatest challenges one may face in his or her lifetime. Who wants to talk about that?

Actually, despite it not being talked about much, it’s been an important and impactful part of society since shortly after the existence of marriage. Its prevalence has fluctuated over the thousands of years of recorded history and the trend has largely followed the influence of religion on government and society generally.

While there is disparity around the world as to the popularity of divorce, it is clear that in Massachusetts, like most states, the law is trending from what we would consider traditional to a system of equality and structure. Here’s how the main issues in divorce are treated in Massachusetts and are trending nationally today.

“Child custody” is still the terminology used in Massachusetts, but many states have done away with it, instead opting for more neutral terms such as “time sharing”, reflecting a growing national view of co-parenting that makes it a point to not characterize children as property or either parent as the “primary” one. While most divorces with children still result in one parent having about a third of the time and the other having two thirds, there are more judgments granting equal time between parents than ever. Family Law Judges in Massachusetts continue to have broad discretion in fashioning parenting schedules, so putting the relevant facts about ones case into evidence is just as critical as ever.

Child support is treated as a statutory calculation, considering the income of the parties, the parenting schedule, employment-related child care, and health insurance in nearly every state. While there is not much movement nationally on this issue, every state periodically adjusts the guidelines figures, so the amount set for child support tends to go up over time.

Alimony is perhaps the most inconsistently treated issue across the country, recently having been overhauled in Massachusetts in 2011. While some states have actually done away with permanent alimony altogether, Massachusetts has added more structure and limitation into the law. Permanent alimony is now generally only available in Massachusetts when the marriage lasted over 20 years, with shorter term types of alimony are more tailored to the situation. Generally, the longer you’ve been married, the longer the alimony is likely available, if available at all.

Property division is unique in Massachusetts, with judges having more discretion than in most other states. That’s because in Massachusetts all property is part of the marital estate subject to division by the court including premarital property, gifts, and inheritances. Many states carve these types of assets out of the marital estate, but in Massachusetts we give judge’s more authority to determine an equitable or fair result.

Massachusetts divorce law is quite sophisticated. We live in a community of highly intelligent, hardworking, family-focused individuals who for many can’t avoid the realty of the breakdown of a marriage. There will always be an element of loss associated with divorce and that comes with a grieving period. But, when properly educated on divorce law and with the right counsel and support, more parties can and do move on to a better life. So, if you’re facing divorce and living in our community, don’t be afraid of the issues. While you may not want to discuss it over drinks at your favorite local restaurant or while the kids circle you at the candy shop, there are plenty of Newburyport divorce lawyers, including me, who will help you through the process.

Plum Island Pink House

How many times have you driven past that old pink house on your way out to Plum Island and wondered what it’s all about? There’s something about that house that

co-parenting tips from Turco Legal, Newburyport

Co-Parenting Holiday Survival Guide

Co-parenting through the holidays can be easy or frustrating and Halloween is no exception. The reality is, some parents can’t put their children’s need before their own interest in making

Blue Ribbon Water Purification Provides a Whole House Water Filtration Solution

Great Tasting, Healthy Water From Every Faucet in Your Home

If you’ve ever had a glass of water that just tasted really exceptional, there’s a good chance it came through a water purification and water filtration system. Local Newburyport company, Blue Ribbon Water, does just that—delivering healthy, great-tasting water to every faucet in your home. What makes their product truly stand out from an ordinary water purifier is that they install their system at the entry point of your home. This allows all of the water that flows into your house to be filtered—providing the purest H2o for drinking, bathing, laundry, and more.

So is it really important to install a water filtration system? As Blue Ribbon Water points out, municipal water facilities adhere to EPA requirements to keep your water microbe and bacteria-free and safe to drink—but safe does not necessarily equal healthy. Being a local Newburyport company, Blue Ribbon Water has spent ample time researching the area’s H2o to best understand the most common municipal water problems. Residents that install a water purification system with them will be given a filter selected to address the problems they discovered in their research—trihalomethanes, silt, sediment, chlorine, and other VOC’s. Blue Ribbon Water also continuously monitors the municipal water in the area and can adapt your water filtration system if new threats emerge.

While your health is obviously the greatest benefit of water purification, there are also many additional perks to having a system in your home. These include a longer life span for appliances and your water heater with reduced sediment buildup, more vibrant skin and hair, brighter laundry, and even healthier pets. You are also reducing your plastic consumption and helping the environment with bottled quality water flowing from your faucets, removing the need to purchase your drinking H2o.

Blue Ribbon Water makes the entire process of installing and maintaining a whole house water filtration easy. They literally do everything! Your quoted price includes local licensed plumbers that will come to your home to put in your system. Blue Ribbon Water will then maintain your filtration system by changing out your filters when needed. So all you have to do is kick back and pour yourself a nice clean glass of water and enjoy. Ready to install your new water filtration system? Contact Blue Ribbon Water today and you can be up and running in just a few weeks!

Blue Ribbon Water

By Bill Cooper , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
As President & Co-Founder of Blue Ribbon Water, Bill Cooper utilizes his extensive sales and marketing experience combined with strong knowledge of local municipal water challenges to create an environmentally conscious company that delivers whole house water filtration systems. Blue Ribbon Water’s focus is to deliver “Cleaner, Healthier, Great Tasting Water” (sm) throughout the entire home, restaurant, or business. The company was founded on three simple principles: 1) Be the expert on the water in each town we do business, so our solutions is the best possible. 2) Deliver superior full customer service including installation and scheduled filter changes. 3) Be honest and don’t sell customers what they don’t need. Other water filter companies, or plumbers who do water filters ‘on the side’, lack in all these areas. For instance, many residents are told they need an expensive water softener when they do not. City water rarely needs a water softener. Other companies leave it up to the customer to remember to have their filter changed. Blue Ribbon Water keeps a database of filter changes and automatically alerts the customer. Bill has lived in Newbury with his wife Debra for over 30 years. They raised their two boys here, and Bill was on the Newbury Finance Committee.

How to Prepare for Hydrant Flushing – Scheduling & Tips

Hydrant flushing typically occurs twice a year—in the spring and fall. Newburyport is currently in the middle of hydrant flushing which started Monday, September 20th and is expected to run through the month of October. Why does the city do it? Hydrant flushing is beneficial for the city street water pipes and ensures the safe operation of hydrants. However, the process dislodges buildup in the street pipes that then travel to your home. It’s key to know when your street is being flushed so you can take the proper precautions to protect yourself and your home.

When your street is being flushed, your water turns brown, and particles can become lodged in shower heads and faucets and settle in the bottom of water heaters. If your street is currently flushing, you should avoid drinking water from your faucet—this includes water for your pets. Along with clogging water filters and temporarily contaminating your drinking water, hydrant flushing can also discolor clothing if the water is used to do laundry.

When it’s your streets turn to be flushed, I recommend that all of my Blue Ribbon Water customers change their water filter to bypass mode. If you have a water filter, all of that ‘muck’ will be filtered out, which is good. But filters have tiny, tiny pores that can become clogged as the water passes through it, lowering your water pressure and shortening the life of your filter. We alert all of our Blue Ribbon Water customers when it’s time to change their filter settings to preserve its longevity and to give our customers an advanced warning to plan around hydrant flushing schedules.

So how should you plan for hydrant flushing? The City of Newburyport recommends a few steps that apply to both those with and without a filter.

Keep your eye on the city website for what day your neighborhood is being flushed.
On that day, limit the use of water and delay doing laundry.
Avoid drinking water from a faucet.
Do not use hot water, as particles can settle in the bottom, and take longer to clear.
We recommend to our customers with filters to put it in ‘bypass’ mode, if available.
At the end of flushing, run an outside faucet, or utility sink until the water clears up.
Put your water filter back in operation mode.

Newburyport provides a list of streets every morning on their homepage. They do not publish streets in advance, so you do need to check every day.

PFAS in MA Drinking Water, Blue Ribbon Water, Newburyport

PFAS in MA Drinking Water – What You Should Know

PFAS is back in the news again! If you have not immersed yourself in the whole PFOA / PFAS in drinking water topic, now is a great time to dive

Greater Seacoast Community Bank

Journey Well with Newburyport Bank

Life is full of different adventures, from starting a family, buying a home, to embarking on a business dream. Whatever journey you’re on, it helps to have the support of Newburyport Bank, a mutual savings bank headquartered in Newburyport, Massachusetts. The community bank has 11 locations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and over $1.2 billion in assets.

This strong, independent community partner is committed to helping you journey well. Since 1854, the local bank has served as a financial guide for the people and businesses of the Greater Seacoast, offering a complete range of personal and business products and services, as well as advanced technologies in online and mobile banking.

Newburyport Bank is actively involved in the betterment of the communities they serve, and are well positioned to help you navigate what’s ahead, support you during challenges, and help find solutions that serve you well today and in your future.

The bank has invested in state-of-the-art facilities to support the “Universal Banker Model,” which helps you connect to a banker quickly and all but eliminates traditional teller lines. Highly skilled bankers are prepared to handle your needs from simple to complex.

Committed to providing specialized services to meet the needs of its diverse customer base, Newburyport Bank offers Private Client Group, which assists high-net-worth individuals in their banking needs. In addition, the bank offers products and services designed for government entities, nonprofit organizations, veteran-owned businesses, medical professionals and more.

A big supporter of philanthropy, the bank founded the Newburyport Bank Charitable Foundation in 2003 to carry out its mission of helping neighbors and businesses navigate life’s journey well. Supported solely by Newburyport Bank, the Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations located in the greater Newburyport and New Hampshire Seacoast areas. Since the Foundation’s inception, the bank has contributed over $4 million and the Foundation has made awards of more than $3 million.

As a premier employer in Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire Seacoast, the bank is dedicated to developing talented, committed and passionate employees who provide attentive service and give back to community through numerous volunteer efforts.

Deposits at Newburyport Bank are federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), with excess insurance provided by the Depositors Insurance Fund (DIF).

Newburyport Bank

By Laura Bentley , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner of Newburyport.Com, Laura manages Business Development, Fundraising, the VIP Program, Blogging and the Events Calendar.

Historic Carousel on Salisbury Beach – Newburyport Bank $250K Donation

A historic carousel will soon call a brand new pavilion on Salisbury Beach home thanks to the efforts of the Salisbury Beach Partnership and Historic Carousel, Salisbury Beach a generous $250K donation from Newburyport Bank—a true community bank that gives back to the neighborhoods it serves. This project is part of a greater effort to restore Salisbury’s waterfront, creating a year-round family-oriented destination.

The pavilion will be constructed at a space on Broadway that has been vacant for 25 years, donated by Partnership President Wayne Capolupo and his family. Along with the historic carousel, the pavilion will also house a much-needed Newburyport Bank micro branch and event space for birthday parties and weddings.

The wooden hand-carved carousel, dating back to 1909, was built by W.F. Mangels at the Looff factory in East Providence, Rhode Island. During its heyday, the Looff carousel whirled and twirled at Harveys Lake Amusement Park in Pennsylvania. Now 112 years later, the historic carousel has been completely restored and will once again bring smiles to riders—big and small.

Historic Carousel, Salisbury Beach The carousel, one of only 300 of its kind, is made up of 44 hand-carved and painted wooden animals—including horses, giraffes, camels, and goats. As part of the fundraising for the project, families and local businesses can “adopt” one of the animals and sponsor it for the next 20 years.

Along with the Adopt a Horse program, all proceeds from this year’s Sea Festival of Trees, where 12 of the horses were on display, will go to the historic carousel and pavilion. The Salisbury Beach Partnership will continue to raise up to $1 million in funds for the Campaign for the Carousel.

The Salisbury waterfront is no stranger to having a beautiful carousel for locals and visitors to enjoy. The Broadway Flying Horses, the original Salisbury carousel, was a beloved family tradition for over 60 years before being sold off and moved to Santa Monica, California in 2019. The new addition of the pavilion and historic carousel, along with many other investment like the new Welcome Center, Comfort Station, and oceanfront boardwalk will truly bring back the magic of the Salisbury.

BANKW Staffing Testimonial

Chococoa Baking Company Testimonial

Newburyport Architects Transform Your Vision into Stunning Architectural Designs

MPG Home Design Architects Strive to Exceed Customer Expectations

Are you in need of a an experienced architect, dedicated to providing customized design solutions at an affordable cost? MPG Home Design is a full service Architectural Design studio serving the Greater Newburyport area since 2008 with a broad offering of services including: architectural design, design consultation, and project management for any sized project.

Whether it’s new construction, home addition, kitchen, bathroom or basement remodeling, MPG architects provide sensible design solutions at an affordable price. Think of them as your “design concierge” – working hand-in-hand with clients to make the architectural design process seamless and stress free – for architectural components inside, outside and all around the home.

MPG Home Design is different than most architects. Their fee structure is easy to understand. Their process is straightforward and agile. And their goal is to demystify architectural design so clients have clarity on what they’re getting and paying for.

Clients come to MPG Home Design architects for a wide variety of deliverables including:

Schematic architectural design concepts to express their vision
Documentation and plans to secure a building permit
3D modeling so they can see what a new space will look like
Construction details to ensure more accurate contractor estimates

The “MPG” design philosophy is all about being modern, practical and green. They like to mash up styles – modern with traditional, soulful with functional, old with new architecture. And they always strive for cost-effective, eco-friendly solutions.

While their architects specialize in home design they also bring a similar approach to retail, commercial, corporate and hospitality projects. No matter what your architectural design needs, MPG Home Design wants every client to have an enjoyable experience. That’s why they focus on…

Deliberate Design: They listen and learn about the way you live so they can create design that’s both functional and aesthetic.
Responsiveness: They never leave you hanging. Their architects return calls, provide status reports and are always there to help. They run a tight ship!
A Simplified Process: They make the architectural design steps accessible and understandable by speaking like a human and avoiding archi-babble. They also offer tutorials and worksheets to educate their clients.
Considerations for Cost: They use a “minimum viable planning” methodology so clients don’t have to buy the whole enchilada.

Want to learn more? Give them a call about your next renovation project and they will gladly share real life experiences from over 280 projects.

Call MPG Home Design at 978-255-1515.

MPG Home Design

By Mindi Poston Gay , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Mindi is Principal Architectural Designer, Assoc. AIA (American Institute of Architects) and has been practicing architecture and interior design for over 25 years. She’s a graduate of the Boston Architectural College (BAC) with a degree in Architecture and has worked in renowned architectural firms including Payette Associates, EGA Architects, Carpenter & MacNeille Architects, Essex, MA, and TMS Architects. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Design New England Magazine, New England Home Design Magazine, North Shore Magazine, Newburyport Magazine, The Boston Globe, USA Today Home Magazine, as well as Apartment Therapy, Discovery Channel and Planet Green Channel.

Architectural Styles of Newburyport Meet Reimagined Interiors

Architectural styles abound in Newburyport. As you drive down High Street you’ll see examples of Cape, Mission, Bungalow, Modern Farm House, Federalist, Mansard, Greek Rival, Mid-Century, Ranch, Colonial and many more. Each style represents a different part of history and design theory.

The diversity of architectural forms is what makes this town so interesting. From timeless to trendy, Newburyport’s charm is linked to the co-existence of architectural styles. Amidst the variety, big changes are afoot. You’ll see changes happening on the outside with new porticos, garage additions, modern window replacements and material/color updates. But even more is happening behind closed doors.

Long ago, rooms were smaller and heavily divided by function. It was common to have separate parlors, dining rooms, and serving quarters – Each space designed for a singular purpose. Today’s family craves more open and flexible living. To achieve this goal, the layout of the inside of a house needs to be reimagined yet still harmonize with the exterior architectural style. Thanks to technology, structural engineering and great architectural design, most homes can be dramatically transformed to better serve a modern lifestyle.

Over the last year, we’ve noticed a common theme in renovation requests. Home owners have consistently asked, “How can I…”

Open up the dining or living room space for better flow with the kitchen
Improve overall kitchen functionality – get a bigger island, more storage, open shelving
Blend indoor with outdoor living – get more windows, views, and light
Replace dated trim and molding detail with more modern, simple lines
Convert a tired, cluttered bathroom to a more refreshing, spa-like refuge

No matter what the architectural style of your exterior, there are endless possibilities for interior transformations. It’s fun to explore all your options. That’s why we’re fans of dreaming big and then designing across a spectrum of change, from mild to magnificent.

In most cases, the process starts by documenting the existing conditions. Using the latest 3D camera technology, we can capture hundreds of views of an existing floor plan and stitch together a “doll-house” visual model. All key dimensions are then imported into CAD to create a baseline for new designs.

From there the architectural styles are incorporated into multiple schematic designs are developed in both Floor Plan and Elevation views. Computer modeling allows us to depict the design dimensionally to bring it visually to life. Sometimes a single design rises to the surface as the winner. Other times, a mash-up of several designs becomes the new hybrid solution. The selected architectural plan is vetted for feasibility and submitted to contractors for initial bids. When done efficiently, the Schematic Design process can take less than 8 weeks.

Whether it’s an antique Sea Captain’s home, or a conventional ranch, interior home transformations can have a huge impact on day-to-day living without noticeable change to the exterior. Of course, the exterior can be transformed as well, but we’ll save that for another blog!

The result is a better use of space, increased flow, improved views, more storage, less clutter, cleaner lines, and more environmentally friendly materials… Not to mention increased home value in a rising market!

No matter what type of house you live in, there’s a way to adapt the floor plan, wall position, entry ways, staircases and any other structural or non-structural component to improve your lifestyle. Having an architectural strategy and an architectural plan are the keys to unlocking your home’s true potential.

Want to see the possibilities? We’d be happy to show you how our experienced Newburyport architects can take your home to the next level.

Architectural Drawings: How to Turn Great Ideas into a Buildable Plan

Architectural drawings are the bridge between your vision and an actual plan that you can use for cost estimation, permitting and construction. Whether it’s a simple bathroom remodel, a kitchen

Residential & Commercial Interior Design Top Newburyport Interior Designer

Greater Newburyport’s Design Experts

Are you in need of a top North Shore Interior Designer? Worthington Interior Design serves Newburyport and the surrounding areas, offering complete residential and commercial design services for the discerning client. They welcome the opportunity to work with you creating well-functioning and distinctive spaces that are both comfortable and enjoyable.

It is important to choose an interior designer with broad project experience including: refreshes of current décor: nurseries/children’s bedrooms, master bedrooms/suites, playrooms and beyond. Worthington Interior Design can assist with renovations of family rooms, dining rooms to kitchens and baths; along with new construction projects working with Architects to bring your vision to life.

Whether it’s selecting a color palate, lighting, furnishings, window treatments or accessories, clients appreciate the Worthington experience and the strong ability to mesh with each clients unique sense of style. Choose an interior designer who can manage the details of project, budgeting and scheduling, schematic layouts/floor plans, custom millwork, detailed construction drawings, along with coordination and procurement of products and seamlessly managing installations.

Enjoy shopping and sourcing your new fabrics and furnishings with an experienced interior designer who can help save you money on products due to extensive vendor relationships. Whether shopping at the Boston Design Center or procuring through other channels, working with an experienced designer makes for sensational results. Did you know hiring a professional saves you money? You make fewer errors when it comes to furniture, fabric, accessories and art work, plus paint colors are exactly what you’re expecting the first time around!

Are you opening a new restaurant, needing a more efficient office or planning to relocate your company? Worthington Interior Design will develop test-fits/redesign of your existing space to maximize utilization. Let the local design experts manage the details of your design project so that you can stay focused on running your business.

Whether your thinking about redesigning and decorating room by room or embarking on a major home or commercial renovation; contact Worthington Interior Design to schedule a consultation meeting.

Worthington Interior Design

By Debra Worthington , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."

How about a Refreshing HOME-Over?

How about a refreshing HOME-Over, as the chill of winter slowly gives way to spring, chances are you’re taking stock of your home and finding little things that have been nagging at you. Although the idea of “spring cleaning” seems a little cliché, there is no better time to refresh your home with a Home-Over! Re-creating your space so that it’s healthier, more accommodating, and more livable for your family can be done on just about any budget.

Top-to-Bottom Clean

Go through your house, open the windows, and clean everything from top to bottom. Look through drawers, closets, and pantries and donate, recycle, give away, or pitch anything you no longer want or need. From a health perspective, it’s time to get rid of old makeup, shampoo, and lotion. Wash dog bedding and toys and flip mattresses.

Shake out your rugs and give carpet and tile a good deep steam cleaning. Wash walls and drapery and even scrub countertops and appliances to get an in-depth clean. Cleaning and decluttering are a major step in ridding your home of negativity. While you can do a lot of this on your own, it may be worthwhile to hire a professional cleaning team to come in and handle the details on your behalf.

Rearrange Your Space

Ever wondered how that favorite armchair would look in another corner of your living room? Or how your Ficus tree would fare in the entryway instead of the guest room? Now is the perfect time to reconfigure your rooms and even re-decorate with your own things. According to Cosmopolitan, changing up how a room is situated can give you a literal and figurative new outlook. Create conversation areas, reading nooks, or change up lighting and knickknacks in different rooms for a fresh feel.

You can use an online room configuration tool to help. Again, while this is something you can probably do yourself if you’re moving heavy items or delicate pieces up and down stairs or in or out of storage, you’ll want to have professional assistance.

Make Use of All Spaces

For many people, a basement is just a damp storage area, but it’s actually a great amount of real estate if it’s refinished. Consider turning your basement into a meditation studio or a home gym, a media and entertainment room or guest quarters. You could potentially do this yourself but working with a seasoned Interior Designer and Contractor reduces headaches and ensures the project is done correctly.

Another idea is to convert your basement into your ideal home office. One of the key considerations in a basement office is having sufficient lighting.

Costs will vary based on where you live, the type of materials being used, and the specific improvements you’re looking for, working with a seasoned professional you will avoid costly mistakes.

If you need help bringing the vision of your space to life, contact Worthington Interior Design to create the home office of your dreams.

Find the Right Contractor

Whether you’re hiring a professional trade to come in and help with a minor project or you are doing a full-scale renovation, it’s important that the professionals you bring into your home are licensed, bonded, insured, and reliable. Always get written estimates and check your area contracting authority to ensure any company you employ is in good standing. Ask for testimonials and portfolio reviews of different work projects so you have a good idea about the type of work you’ll be receiving. Also, ask for timelines for completion.

Making renovations to your home space can boost the appraised value of the house as well as increase your enjoyment of the property while you’re living in it. Make honest assessments of what you can do yourself, versus what it makes sense to have a professional handle.

Founded by Interior Designer, Debra Worthington in 2003, Worthington Interior Design and Worthington Home has been born out of working with some of the nation’s top 10 architectural/interior design firms. To work with us, please contact us today!

Curb Appeal - Worthington Interior Design Newburyport

Curb Appeal Ideas to Increase Your Home’s Valuation

As reported, curb appeal is one of the prominent contributing factors towards increasing your home’s valuation. For homeowners currently in the process of selling their house, this article by Worthington

Hygge-pronounced ‘hew gah’

Hygge – cozy comfort ways to bring small pleasures as we approach the end of February. I first saw this word in a Scandinavian cookbook recipe for ‘That Banana Cake.’

Post-Pandemic: Make Your Home Brighter and Livelier

Post-pandemic, make your home brighter and livelier to improve your mental health and revive your desire to venture out into the world as a more peaceful, relaxed individual. Let us

Professional Aerial Photography & Video

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technology

UAV Look is a professional aerial photography & video company based in Newburyport, MA. Using the latest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, these creative experts deliver affordable and quality aerial images and video without having to hire expensive helicopter and plane pilots and photographers to get the same results!

The possible uses for aerial photographs and video are endless. Use them for real-estate to either entice new listings, or catch the eyes of potential buyers. Get unique aerial photos and video of an event you’re hosting, from a concert, to a political rally, to your child’s sporting event or birthday party. Even use an eye-catching aerial photograph or video for your business webpage or social media sites.

Maybe you’re filming a movie or commercial and want a few aerial clips? Or perhaps you simply want a cool and different photo of your property to hang above the mantel. Whatever the reason, UAV Look is the professional company with the technical knowledge, piloting skills, and quality service that you need!

UAV Look

By Ethan Cohen, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
CEO of UAV Look, Aerial Photography and Video, Ethan founded his aerial photography and video company, UAV Look, in September 2014. He received his Bachelor's degree in Political Science in 2013 with a Minor in Law. He then earned a Master's degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Communications in May, 2014. Having spent most of his life interested in computers and technology as a whole, he saw a business opportunity that would take advantage of the latest advancements in civilian drone development. Ethan has become well known in the Greater Newburyport area for providing exciting drone coverage of major events.

Newburyport Slow Bike Race – A Coastal Trails Coalition Event

The Slow Bike Race will not be hosted during The 2021 Yankee Homecoming Festival. The Slow Bike Race is one of many great local fundraising events during Yankee Homecoming week and is hosted by Coastal Trails Coalition. Funds raised from the event go towards pedestrian and bicycle paths connecting the towns of Newbury, Newburyport, Salisbury and Amesbury.

So how does one win the Newburyport slow bike race? By being the last rider to cross the finish line without touching a foot to the ground. In addition to awarding the slowest biker, there are also prizes for best costume, team spirit and most donations. The race is 1/2 block long and takes place in historic Brown Square in downtown Newburyport. If you haven’t had a chance to see the Newburyport Slow Bike Race in past years, enjoy aerial coverage brought to you by, UAV Look.

We suggest heading downtown to the Yankee Homecoming Market Place to grab dinner from vendors and then heading over to Brown Square to catch the Slow Bike Race followed by a visit to Waterfront Park to enjoy a free live concert!

Complete the Coastal Trails registration form if you would like to enter the race. The cost is $25 and make sure to arrive by 5:30 the day of the race.

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Contact

UAV Look
Newburyport, MA 01950
(978) 270-5399
Ethan@UAVlook.com

Accounting & Taxes for Personal & Business

Sound Tax Strategy Means Financial Peace of Mind

Strategy for accounting & taxes is critical. Is your accountant a valued partner you can trust to guide you with key tax decisions? All CPA’s, process returns but great CPA’s can enlighten you on various tax options and the advantages and disadvantages associated with your decisions. Michael Capo, CPA, P.C and his team have extensive experience with both personal and business accounting and taxes.

On the personal side there are many decisions we can make that will provide tax benefit. Are you utilizing all of the deductions available to you? Are you tracking personal expenses with a program such as QuickBooks? In addition to providing valuable budgeting information, these programs can make tax preparation far more simplistic enabling you to quickly pull a report to calculate deductible expenses such as home office, daycare, charitable contributions and so much more. Do you need help learning to utilize these sorts of tools? The Michael Capo team has extensive experience and can provide training assistance.

Do you own a business? Is your business incorporated? Are you aware of the tax ramifications of an S Corp versus and LLC? Do you need assistance managing payroll taxes or preparing estimates for your quarterly return? Michael Capo and team have extensive experience working with businesses and helping to ensure that they are using the most productive processes to manage invoicing and payroll, 401K decisions etc. It is critical to have sound tax processes in place from the start in order for your business to scale efficiently.

Whether your tax needs are personal, business or both we highly recommend you consider the Best of Newburyport tax Experts at Michael Capo, CPA, PC.

Michael Capo, CPA, P.C.

By Michael Capo , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
President of Michael Capo CPA, P.C. Mike has over 25 years of accounting and finance experience in corporate, individual, independent and government environments. Mike's extensive knowledge is invaluable to his clients and allows him to provide a consultative approach personalized to each of his business and personal tax clients.

S Corporation Advantages and Disadvantages

S Corporation Advantages, Michael Capo, Newburyport

What are S Corporation advantages and disadvantages? Frequently, this question arises whenever a client is just starting a business, or has been operating as a sole proprietor and may be wondering about the tax advantages of incorporating as an S Corporation. Also, many clients assume it will be too costly or time-consuming to incorporate—but neither is the case. The following is a brief outline and comparison of an S Corporation advantages and disadvantages. However, please feel free to set up a consultation to discuss your specific business opportunity needs and whether or not an S Corporation is right for you.

What is an S corporation?

Essentially, an S corporation is a corporation that is treated, for federal tax purposes, as a pass-through entity through an election made with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to be considered an S Corporation. What does that mean?

As a corporation, an S corporation is created through filing Articles of Incorporation with the Mass. Secretary of State. It issues stock and is governed as a corporation. The owners, who are called shareholders, have the same protection from liability as shareholders of a C Corporation. An S corporation shareholder’s personal assets, such as personal bank accounts, cannot be seized to satisfy business liabilities.

However, like a sole proprietor or a partnership, an S corporation passes through its income and loss items to the shareholders. Unlike a regular corporation, there is no “double taxation,” once at the corporate level and again on the individual shareholder level. Each shareholder is subject to his or her own individual tax rate on the income (or losses) passed through to him or her at year-end. The following are S Corporation advantages and disadvantages to consider.

S corporation advantages

The advantages of an S corporation often outweigh any perceived disadvantages. The S corporation structure can be especially beneficial when it comes time to transfer ownership or discontinue the business. These advantages are typically unavailable to sole proprietors and general partnerships. S corporation advantages include:

Protected assets. An S corporation protects the personal assets of its shareholders. A shareholder is not personally responsible for the business debts and liabilities of the corporation as long as there is no personal guarantee. Creditors cannot pursue the personal assets (house, bank accounts, etc.) of the shareholders to pay business debts. In a sole proprietor or general partnership, owners and the business are legally considered the same—leaving personal assets vulnerable.
Pass-through taxation. An S corporation does not pay federal taxes at the corporate level. Any business income or loss is “passed through” to shareholders who report it on their personal income tax returns. This means that business losses can offset other income on the shareholders’ tax returns. This can be extremely helpful in the startup phase of a new business.
Tax-favorable characterization of income. S corporation shareholders can be employees of the business and draw salaries as employees. They can also receive distributions from the corporation that are tax-free to the extent of their investment (basis) in the corporation. A reasonable characterization of distributions as salary or dividends can help the owner reduce self-employment tax liability, while still generating business expenses and wages paid deductions for the corporation. This is one of the major advantages why an S Corporation is preferred by most privately owned businesses.
Straightforward transfer of ownership. Interests in an S corporation can be freely transferred without triggering adverse tax consequences. (In a partnership or an LLC, the transfer of more than a 50-percent interest can trigger the termination of the entity.) The S corporation does not need to make adjustments to property basis or comply with complicated accounting rules when an ownership interest is transferred.

S corporation disadvantages

An S corporation may have some potential disadvantages, including:

Formation and ongoing expenses. To operate as an S corporation, it is necessary to first incorporate the business by filing Articles of Incorporation with the Mass. Secretary of State and pay the appropriate fees. Massachusetts also imposes ongoing yearly fees, such as an annual report and excise tax fees. Although these fees usually are not expensive, and can be deducted as a cost of doing business, they are expenses that a sole proprietor or general partnership will not incur.
Stock ownership restrictions. An S corporation can have only one class of stock, although it can have both voting and non-voting shares. Therefore, there can’t be different classes of investors who are entitled to different dividends or distribution rights. Also, there cannot be more than 100 shareholders. Foreign ownership is prohibited, as is ownership by certain types of trusts and other entities. Typically, this is not an issue with locally private owned businesses.
Closer IRS scrutiny. Because amounts distributed to a shareholder can be dividends or salary, the IRS scrutinizes payments to make sure the characterization conforms to reality. As a result, dividends may be re-characterized as wages, which subjects the corporation to employment tax liability. This is one particular area that needs to be discussed in great lengths to assure that a shareholder is taking the proper amount of salary.
Less flexibility in allocating income and loss. Because of the one class of stock restriction, an S corporation cannot easily allocate losses or income to specific shareholders. Allocation of income and loss is governed by the percentage of stock ownership, unlike a partnership or LLC where the allocation can be set in the operating agreement.

If you are interested in further exploring S Corporation advantages and disadvantages in regards to your specific business, contact the offices of Michael Capo, CPA. P.C. to schedule a meeting, 978-499-4300.

Tax Scams, Newburyport MA, Michael Capo, CPA

Avoid Tax Scams With Awareness Of IRS Process

Protect yourself, your family, and close friends against common tax scams. Take the time to understand key facts that can help you know if you are being legitimately contacted by

Top Real Estate Attorneys - Best of Newburyport Real Estate Lawyers

Liberty Law & Title – A Boutique Law Firm

Searching for a top shelf real estate attorney? Liberty Law is a Newburyport, Massachusetts concierge, boutique law firm with an experienced team of real estate lawyers concentrating in all aspects of Residential & Commercial Real Estate, Business, Venture Capital, Product / Invention Development and Licensing as well as private equity and strategy. The goal of the Firm is to manage these often competing business and legal areas professionally and in a manner which produces the most successful legal and business result for our clients in all areas of: Residential & Commercial Real Estate Law, Condo Conversions, Business Law Start-Up, Product / Invention Development & Licensing, Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity & Strategy.

Liberty Law real estate lawyers are based out of Newburyport, Boston and Portsmouth and proudly represent major lending institutions and banks across New England and beyond as well as start-up companies and ventures, real estate development firms, manufacturing ventures, environmental engineering firms, closely held corporations and government agencies. In addition, the Law Firm represents lenders, buyers and sellers of real estate in a variety of property matters from residential and commercial transactions and loans, to venture capital, business financing & funding, corporate concerns as well as inventors and product developers – including clients who, with our assistance from inception, have successfully licensed their product inventions into the mass-market retail channels such as Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Toys R Us, CVS, Bed Bath Beyond, Target and other retailers both domestically, and markets abroad. Through a professional and innovative approach to providing highly expert and competitive legal services, Liberty Law has earned the loyalty and confidence of our various and diverse client base.

Whether searching for a real estate attorney or simply the answer to a real estate question, Liberty Law, a sophisticated boutique law firm draws upon the knowledge of these varying areas of real estate law in an ever changing legal and regulatory environment, while plying our experience in complex negotiations for the advancement and protection our clients’ best interests.

Liberty Law is a Newburyport based Law Firm with offices located in both the Seaport District of Boston, as well as a new office in Portsmouth, NH. Liberty law proudly represents its diverse and innovative clients in all facets of Residential & Commercial Real Estate Conveyancing, Zoning, Land Use and Permit Applications before local/state boards, Condo Conversions, entrepreneurship and business / deal strategy. As coastal real estate and legal experts, the attorneys at Liberty work with and assemble only the most qualified talent, engineers and other professionals so as to ensure that its clients enjoy the very best level of team talent available – all with a focus toward bringing a clients’ deal, transaction, project or matter to a creative, driven and successful resolution.

Founding real estate attorneys Robert Ciampitti, Jr. and Charles S. Palmisano, along with Partner Mike B. McCarthy frequently author and lecturer on a variety of topics in residential & commercial real estate, business, zoning and environmental law and have each co-authored or contributed to Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education publications. Attorney Rob Ciampitti has also published in the nationally-circulated Environmental Law Journal on the topics of toxicology and expert testimony in proving environmental damages – and was a former Visiting Professor of Business Law at Salem State University, Salem, Massachusetts. Mr. Ciampitti has also served on the Newburyport Zoning Board of Appeals for over 18 years and is currently the Board’s Chairman.

Liberty Law

By Robert Ciampitti , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Rob Ciampitti is a co-founding attorney and partner at Liberty Law and represents a dynamic client base of lenders, investors, developers as well as buyers & sellers of real estate – across a variety of land use, zoning, and condo matters ranging from commercial & residential real estate to private financing, development and permitting and innovative deal-strategy. In October of 2020, Rob was admitted to Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design, where he will be completing Harvard’s Advanced Real Estate Management and Development graduate program. An active licensed pilot since 1989, Rob Ciampitti holds a Private Pilot’s License with an Instrument Rating and shares his passion for aviation with his wife and two teenage sons, Rob also enjoys scouting with his two sons and serves as a Scout Leader and Merit Badge counselor for Scout Troop 21 (Newburyport, MA) and is himself an Eagle Scout – recently joined in that honor by both of his sons. Rob Ciampitti was admitted to the Bar of the United States Supreme Court in 2011 and remains an active member in good standing and has held a City of Newburyport Mayoral appointment to the Newburyport Zoning Board of Appeals since 2002 – where he currently serves as the Board’s Chairman.

What’s Up With That Wooden Wheel at Liberty Law

Wooden Wheel, Hoist Wheel, Newburyport Liberty Law

If you have ever been to a real estate closing at Liberty Law, you may have noticed a huge wooden wheel on the 3^rd floor (hand-notched with evenly-spaced square holes – each carefully chiseled along the entire outside circumference of the wheel itself). You may have also noticed the large ship-mast-like wooden spindle that spans enormous roof timbers all square-carved & fitted into the center hub of that wheel. If so, then you may have asked yourself (or one of us), “What’s up with that wheel?”

The answer is interesting, though not unique in and around the old buildings of 19^th Century Newburyport. The history of this wheel – and surviving building elements like it around our City – is tethered back over nearly 200 years to Newburyport’s rich clipper ship & maritime heyday. This wheel was called simply, a hoist-wheel and in the mid to late 1800(s), during the height of Newburyport’s global sailing trade, our 3 story building was used as a retail provisions shop. Offered for sale inside were goods and wares ranging from the ordinary to the rarified – all arriving along our waterfront aboard locally built Clipper ships (things which today can be delivered by a drone right to your doorstep by 11AM tomorrow ….. but ONLY if you’re a Prime Member).

If you could travel back in time and see this hoist wheel in say 1830 or so, you would have noticed that each of those notched holes supported a single wishbone shaped iron fork. These iron forks keep a 2 story knotted rope-loop (a rope chain of sorts) threaded on the wheel itself. Down below, you would have seen an operator pulling one end of that rope loop hand-over-hand on, which in turn would have spun booth the wheel and wooden spindle above. Of course, as the spindle turned, it would have pulled another rope to create a manual elevator – lifting heavy goods and cargo to the upper floors. Even today nearly 250 years later, that wheel still seems to spin with ease.

It was widely rumored during this era that some of this cargo, having survived a voyage from the Far East, West Indies or Europe all the way to our waterfront docks, somehow “got lost” along the final 100 feet of its journey to the Newburyport Customs House. By whatever unrecorded means these goods finally made their way into the city’s commercial interior, we must count ourselves truly lucky today to be among the current stewards of these architectural treasures of our Clipper City’s maritime past. These very ordinary yet amazing relics of our maritime past remind us of just how incredible it is to have the privilege to live and work under this rare canopy of such “living history.”

The next time you’re on Liberty Street whether for a real estate closing or “just because,” I invite you to come visit us here at Liberty Law – and check out this hoist wheel for yourself (with its 250 year old hand cut iron nails and notched holes). By celebrating even the “ordinary” of our past, we help these wonderful treasures stay relevant in our present…and hopefully preserved and protected for our collective future.

Rob Ciampitti is a local history buff and the Co-Founder of Liberty Law located at 11A Liberty Street. Rob is also the Chairman of the Newburyport Zoning Board of Appeals, having proudly served on the Newburyport ZBA for nearly 20 years.

Wooden Wheel, hoist wheel, Liberty Law Newburyport

Liberty Law Website Re-Launch

Liberty Law & Title, LLC–one of the North Shore’s first concierge real estate & start-up law firms–is thrilled to announce the re-launch of the Liberty Law website at www.libertylawma.com. The new design

CYBER-FRAUD IN REAL ESTATE DEALS – JOB POSTING: “Cyber-Crook Wanted: Great Pay & Flexible Hours, Internet a Must – No Gun Required”

Seminar Description: Today, it is easier than ever for scam-artists, through cyber-fraud, to quietly amass public information about us and our industry (called “Social Engineering”). The latest national data confirms

Homes for Sale in Newburyport MA, The North Shore, Southern NH and Boston Metro

Local Real Estate Experts

How can you be immediately in the know about Newburyport homes for sale? Contact one of the many exceptional real estate agents from BENTLEY’S Greater Newburyport, check new listings on the the Search Real Estate tab of Newburyport.com and sign up to receive alerts about new homes for sale in Newburyport. The BENTLEY’S Greater Newburyport Real Estate Team is an independent brokerage providing extensive experience helping clients buy and sell homes on the North Shore, Southern New Hampshire and down to Boston. BENTLEY’S has been the top producing real estate team in Essex Country for the the past four years and has a very strong reputation in the Greater Newburyport community.

For most people, a home purchase or sale is the largest financial transaction they will make in their lifetime. It is critical to work with a real estate agent and company with a proven track record. The BENTLEY’S Greater Newburyport team has sold more homes then any other real estate team on the North Shore so they offer tremendous experience as they are familiar with every possible scenario and can recommend optimal solutions. There are so many homes for sale. When you find the one you love you need an agent who can negotiate on your behalf and ensure that they help secure your dream home. If you are selling you are looking for someone who can help position the unique attributes of your property and help get you the highest possible price point.

Team Leader Robert Bentley is Greater Newburyport’s No. 1 Real Estate Agent for six consecutive years (2011-2016), and a Power Player for REAL Estate Talk Boston on Boston.com. Follow his team as they provide real estate reviews and share with you amazing luxury listings for sale in the Newburyport area. You can also search all MLS listings here for free, or receive an online estimate of your property with BENTLEY’S exclusive Bestimate tool.

Bentley's Real Estate

By Robert Bentley , Newburyport.Com Correspondent
CEO/Owner & Residential/Commercial Sales Specialist for Bentley's, Robert has been the #1 agent in the Greater Newburyport market since 2011 per MLSPIN.com and Bentley's Sales Records. Robert's success is due to his dominance with on-line real estate marketing, strong negotiation skills, and good old fashioned work ethic. Robert has a strong sales, marketing, and finance background and always does what is necessary to get the deal done, and make his clients happy. Experience and proven reputation are key when you are making the largest financial transaction of a life time. Call or text 781-858-5115.

Final Hines Way Townhomes Hit Market this Spring

Newburyport’s new development, Hines Way, stands out from many other projects in the port city with one-of-a-kind style and amenities. This well sought-after community, which has been built and sold in three phases so far, will bring the final phase of condos to market this spring. For buyers hoping to become part of the Hines Way neighborhood—phase 4 promises some of the development’s best properties yet with excellent locations and views.

What makes Hines Way stand out? The condos have a coastal craftsman style that is different from any of the competition. Each townhome has three bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths, along with the main floor set up to entertain with an open concept, high-end finishes, and a deck. The outdoor space continues with a private patio off the downstairs bonus room.

Along with beautiful interiors and private outdoor space, Hines Way continues to deliver with stunning outdoor common space. The condos line a beautiful street with expert landscaping, cobblestone walks, gorgeous granite walls, and even a pond. At the end of the street is a cul de sac featuring a flag pole with a soaring American flag, a nod to the street name itself. Hines way is named after First Lieutenant Derek Hines, a Newburyport native killed overseas while serving in Afghanistan. The flag is dedicated to Hines and his family as a thank you for his service.

While the amenities and attention to detail inside and out of the properties make these townhomes extremely desirable, what puts them over the top is the location. As all current and aspiring Newburyport residences know, location is key in this super walkable city. Hines Way gives residents access to Newburyport’s Clipper City Rail Trail—the perfect spot to enjoy a beautiful walk or bike ride and also a direct connection to downtown and the waterfront. For home buyers commuting to Boston, Hines Way is also a very quick walk or ride to the MBTA. Despite the walkability that Hines Way offers, having a car is also no problem for residences as each condo boasts a private oversized one-car garage—an extremely rare amenity in Newburyport.

With phase 4 of this project set to come to market soon, there is still one last opportunity to call Hines Way home—don’t miss out! The Hines Way development is being exclusively handled by Bentley Real Estate. For more information or to schedule a tour, reach out to Robert Bentley at 781.858.5115.

The Biggest Financial and Non-Financial Benefits of Owning A Home

In the midst of a global pandemic, our homes have become much more than a space that provides a roof over our heads. We’ve experienced sheltering in place for several

Finding the Best Agent Just Got Easier

In partnership with Zillow and Trulia, RealTrends.Com is a national site that provides rankings of Real Estate Agent performance. They have been tracking Real Estate Agent performance at the agent, team, and brokerage level for the past eight years and provide consumers the data necessary to make an educated decision.

Plum Island Real Estate – the Beach Lifestyle is Calling!

News Release – Newburyport.com has just acquired PlumIsland.com. Robert Bentley, the owner of Newburyport.com and co-owner of BENTLEY’S real estate revealed this week in his monthly broadcast with Boston.Com (attached video) the

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