MANCHESTER, NH – The Christmas vibe was strong last Thursday at Laundry Lake laundromat – for two hours families were welcomed into the laundromat where there were tables filled with toys and games. It was part of a community collaboration between Domenic Marte of Latino Vibe 94.9 FM radio station and Laundry Lake owner Rafael Lora – the first of what both men hope will be many more community gatherings to come in the new year.
Marte was soaking up the joy swirling all around him, as kids stopped him to ask an occasional question, or just to say “gracias.”
“Isn’t this amazing,” Marte said, explaining the origin of the toy giveaway.
“Laundry Lake has been here for so many years and the owner, Rafael said to us, ‘You guys can take our area. Come give the kids toys. Do whatever you want. We have enough space and the community is here,’” said Marte. “Just in general, a lot of people have been calling the radio station for us to do this kind of stuff, and we’re like, you know, at some point, we’re gonna do it.”
And so, with just about two weeks to go before Christmas Marte and his team of on-air DJs started promoting the event – and the phone calls started coming in to the radio station.
“It’s been overwhelming, but also a nice way to ease into 2026. Now it’s like, what else can we do in the community? With so many amazing people ready to help – [Alderman-elect] Jason Bonilla, Erik Lesniak [of Manchester Economic Development Office] and members of our team including Jorge Ortiz. It’s been an amazing experience to give back to the community this way.”
The radio station is based in downtown Manchester and is touted as the state’s first-ever Latin radio station. The mission is twofold: celebrating the diverse Latin culture and music woven into the fabric of New Hampshire, while providing a platform for local events, community stories, and Latin traditions. The unifying force of a dedicated radio station is about cultural representation and understanding.
Bonilla was among those in the community who showed up to assist in handing out toys and gift bags. Rather than his signature baseball caps or occasional cowboy hat, Bonilla looked natural in his Santa hat, and was generous with the gift bags provided by Toys for Tots.
“Thiis is what it’s all about,” Bonilla said.
He said he’s looking forward to rolling up his sleeves as Ward 5 Alderman in the New Year, continuing his focus on building community and being a strong voice from within the city’s Hispanic community.
