Tomorrow, perhaps, there will be a more journalistic post, but tonight, I just want to say a huge THANKS to everyone who came by Glen Park for the Portsmouth Pride Coalition picnic.

My unofficial head could had more than 125 people. There was a constant buzz at the tables under the pavilion as people chatted, listened to the PHS Jazz Ensemble, and enjoyed hot dogs and burgers. Dozens of kids were running around playing games and having fun. I met a lot of new people and had some great conversations.

And as I was sitting there, I was struck again by what a wonderful place we live in. I was so proud of our town's Glen Park (and the wonderful volunteer committee that manages it!). I was so proud of the band we were listening to, all recent graduates from PHS and their awesome music program. I talked with several parents who stopped by on their way to football practice and it reminded me our great sports traditions. I had conversations with other folks about our great local businesses, and some of our underappreciated local historical spots.

We live in a town with a lot to be proud of. And I'm very thankful that so many people came out this afternoon to share their pride in Portsmouth. Thank you, and thanks to Gary Vaspol and the other folks on the organizing team for making this all happen.