Gene Chandler the incumbent State Representative for district 1 as well as the current Speaker of the house. Representative Chandler came into the studio to talk with News Director Christian Mower about the issues and why voters should re-elect him to represent them in the state house. You can listen to the interview below.
The mid-term elections are on November 6th. For more information about Jerry and where he stands on the issues important to you go to facebook.com/genechandlernh
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-11-02 04:18:042018-11-02 04:18:04News Director Christian Mower Interviews District 1 Incumbent State Representative & Speaker of the House Gene Chandler
CONWAY, NH – A portion of West Side Road in Conway was closed for several hours today after a motor vehicle accident. Conway Police said that at 10:50 this morning Officers responded to a single vehicle accident near the intersection of Evergreen Drive on West Side Road.
According to witnesses the who were following the SUV with Massachusetts plates said it was headed northbound when it veered off the road and struck a tree. When Police and rescue crews arrived the 83-year-old female driver and sole occupant was found to be deceased.
Authorities said it appeared that the driver suffered an unknown medical condition prior to the crash and that was most likely the cause of her death.
Immediately following the crash, a portion of West Side Road was closed down to a single lane in order to allow the Conway Police Department Accident Reconstruction Team to document the scene. It was reopened at 1:30pm.
The name of the driver is being withheld pending the notification of her family.
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-11-01 15:20:352018-11-02 04:10:27Medical Condition Causes Conway Car Accident
Jerry Knirk is one of the incumbent State Representatives for district 3 representing Madison, Albany, Tamworth, and Freedom. Representative Knirk came into the studio to talk with News Director Christian Mower about the issues and why voters should re-elect him to represent them in the state house. You can listen to the interview below.
The mid-term elections are on November 6th. For more information about Jerry and where he stands on the issues important to you go to jerryknirk.com
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-11-01 04:16:032018-11-01 04:16:03News Director Christian Mower Interviews District 3 Incumbent State Representative Jerry Knirk
NORTH CONWAY, NH – It was a night of wining, dinning, and networking yesterday (10/29/18) during the 106th Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting.
A sold out crowd filled with Chamber members, business leaders, and local representatives came out to the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort to look back at the years successes when it comes to local business in the Valley.
Outgoing MWVCC Board President Tad Furtado hugs MWVCC Executive Director Janice Crawford during his farewell speech. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
On a more somber note the Chamber Board President Tad Furtado gave his farewell speech during the meeting, as he is stepping down from office after being the president for 6 years. Christopher Bellis will be stepping in as the next board President.
In addition to the evening of networking was a celebration of Valley staples who worked tirelessly to better not just their businesses but the success of the Mount Washington Valley as well during the Annual Business Awards.
Antonella Bliss, Lindsey Maihos and Rose Robinson of Coldwell Banker Wright Realty accepting the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
This year the Entrepreneur of the Year Award went the team at Coldwell Banker Wright Realty of Antonella Bliss, Lindsey Maihos and Rose Robinson. Their leadership at Coldwell Banker Wright began the same year as the economic crisis, and though the company has experienced ups and downs, 11 years later it has more than doubled its sales volume.
Dick Badger of Badger Realty accepting the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
This year the Employer of the Year Award was awarded to Badger Realty. Since 1965, Badger Realty has been a staple of the Mount Washington Valley and a leader of community projects, volunteerism, and advancement. Dick Badger & Brenda Leavitt have created a family-oriented culture within an industry that had not historically been recognized through teamwork. They believe in the power of continuing education and encourage their employees to continue their professional development through education and training whenever possible.
This year the White Mountains Treasure Award wasn’t award to just one person but to three very deserving individuals.
Floyd Corson (center) accepting the White Mountains Treasure Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
Floyd Corson was the first to receive the White Mountains Treasure Award. Floyd can be found every Sunday playing the organ at the First Church of Christ. He began his volunteering experience by stepping in to cover the organ for a single Christmas season, and instead remained the volunteer organist for the last 19 years. As an accomplished organist and pianist, Floyd has brought outstanding musical performances for anyone present at church on Sundays. In addition to his Sunday services, Floyd was the pioneer of the White Mountain Musical Arts and the Bach Festival, which celebrated its 30th year this past summer. Floyd is highly regarded amongst his peers and the main reason the Mount Washington Valley has been fortunate enough to host so many talented musicians of his field for such little money is a result of their respect for him.
Shirley (center left) and Richard Van Dyne (center right) accepting their White Mountains Treasure Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
The second and third recipients of the White Mountains Treasure Award were Shirley and Richard Van Dyne, described as mainstays of Memorial Hospital’s entrance for 10 years – and that’s just the beginning. The list of Shirley & Richard Van Dyne’s combined service is extensive, and includes (but is probably not limited to) helping with Tin Mountain Conservation Center, North Conway Community Center, MWV Mud Bowl, Volvo Tennis Tournament, RSVP of Carroll County, The Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, John Fuller School reading programs, Madison Elementary School, the Albany Historical Society, Girl Scouts of America, Meals on Wheels, blood drives with the American Red Cross, the Albany Civic Group, and Memorial Hospital. The Van Dyne’s have logged in over 2500 hours of service to Memorial Hospital alone over these last ten years, and their service to the community through the aforementioned organizations spans more than 50 years.
Cindy Russell (center) accepting the Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
This year’s Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award recipient was Cindy Russell. Cindy Russell, 76, stepped down prior to this past season as executive director of Arts Jubilee, the valley’s celebration of the performing arts. She passed the baton to Bob Sheehan, 27, her understudy the past three years, who has the title of arts administrator. Russell stayed on for the summer, serving as his transitional mentor. The concert series evolved over the years and has been held at Cranmore Mountain since 2006. Formerly executive director of the Mount Washington Valley Musical Arts Association, she continues to promote the organization’s events, including the annual Bach Festival through her website, mwvevents.com. In the past, she has managed the town of Conway’s Fourth of July Celebration, Mt. Washington Valley New Year’s Festival; Polar Express and the Jackson, NH Bicentennial Celebration in 2000.
For more information about the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce call at 603-356-5701 or visit MtWashingtonValley.org.
Information in story contributed to by:
Marti Mayne
PR Manager, Mt Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-10-31 12:49:142018-10-31 12:50:18Sold Out Crowd Attends 106th Mount Washington Valley Chamber Of Commerce Annual Meeting
NORTH CONWAY, NH -Tonight (10/30/18) is the 106th Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting. The annual dinner will be taking place at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort this year, and brings together elected officials, chamber members and guests to network and review the impact the chamber has had on the local business environment and community.
The dinner will feature the Mount Washington Valley Annual Business awards where the Chamber recognizes successful businesses with the Employer of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and White Mountains Treasure awards. Additionally, once again this year, the Chamber will present the Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award in conjunction with the Steve Eastman family.
This evenings events include an extensive silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and networking opportunities during the cocktail hour.
Registration opens at 5:00pm with cocktails and festivities. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm with a brief meeting and review of the Chamber’s past year and future initiatives.
Every Year the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce (MWVCC) calls for nominations and then recognizes successful businesses during the awards.
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award is awarded each year to a business in existence for seven or more years which fills a need within the community and demonstrates creativity, innovation and community involvement. Additionally, the business must be people-and-principle oriented as well as profitable.
This year the Entrepreneur of the Year Award goes the team at Coldwell Banker Wright Realty of Antonella Bliss, Lindsey Maihos and Rose Robinson. Their leadership at Coldwell Banker Wright began the same year as the economic crisis, and though the company has experienced ups and downs, 11 years later it has more than doubled its sales volume. Their commitment toward the industry has pushed them to host a real estate course in Conway for young professionals, which gives the opportunity to take the course and obtain a real estate license here in the Valley, where in the past had to be done away from the area. As a business team, they give back to the community through time and donations, encouraging others within the company to also give back to the community.
The Employer of the Year Award is given each year to a business that demonstrates respect for employees and other business partners and excellence in creating a safe and inviting workplace. The Employer of the Year is also a business offering solid pay/benefits and the opportunity for training and advancement.
This year the Employer of the Year Award goes to Badger Realty. Since 1965, Badger Realty has been a staple of the Mount Washington Valley and a leader of community projects, volunteerism, and advancement. Dick Badger & Brenda Leavitt have created a family-oriented culture within an industry that had not historically been recognized through teamwork. They believe in the power of continuing education and encourage their employees to continue their professional development through education and training whenever possible.
The White Mountains Treasure Award recognizes individuals in the Mt. Washington Valley who have given a lifetime of time and talent to the Valley. The award was established as a way to honor individuals who exemplify that success is not measured by what they accomplish in life for themselves but by what they do for others and the community.
The first recipient for the 2019 White Mountains Treasure Award is Floyd Corson. Floyd can be found every Sunday playing the organ at the First Church of Christ. He began his volunteering experience by stepping in to cover the organ for a single Christmas season, and instead remained the volunteer organist for the last 19 years. As an accomplished organist and pianist, Floyd has brought outstanding musical performances for anyone present at church on Sundays. In addition to his Sunday services, Floyd was the pioneer of the White Mountain Musical Arts and the Bach Festival, which celebrated its 30th year this past summer. Floyd is highly regarded amongst his peers and the main reason the Mount Washington Valley has been fortunate enough to host so many talented musicians of his field for such little money is a result of their respect for him. He’s also an accomplished hiker, who’s summited all of New Hampshire’s 4000 footers, and this passion has moved him to volunteer at the Mount Washington Observatory.
The second recipient of the White Mountains Treasure Award are Shirley and Richard Van Dyne, described as mainstays of Memorial Hospital’s entrance for 10 years – and that’s just the beginning. The list of Shirley & Richard Van Dyne’s combined service is extensive, and includes (but is probably not limited to) helping with Tin Mountain Conservation Center, North Conway Community Center, MWV Mud Bowl, Volvo Tennis Tournament, RSVP of Carroll County, The Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, John Fuller School reading programs, Madison Elementary School, the Albany Historical Society, Girl Scouts of America, Meals on Wheels, blood drives with the American Red Cross, the Albany Civic Group, and Memorial Hospital. The Van Dyne’s have logged in over 2500 hours of service to Memorial Hospital alone over these last ten years, and their service to the community through the aforementioned organizations spans more than 50 years.
The Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award was created to honor of the late Steve Eastman, (1949-2008) former MWVCC board member, longtime community leader and former Mountain Ear newspaper founding publisher and editor, this award recognizes a strong community leader. Steve’s business life personified what it means to give back to the community. Through his editorial coverage and sponsorship, Steve Eastman loved to promote the performing arts and appreciated what they did to enrich the cultural life of Mt. Washington Valley. The Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award is given annually by members of the Eastman family to the person who personifies Steve’s passion and zest for life, for helping the community, and for carrying on Steve’s love for Mt Washington Valley.
This year’s Steve Eastman Award recipient is Cindy Russell. Cindy Russell, 76, stepped down prior to this past season as executive director of Arts Jubilee, the valley’s celebration of the performing arts. She passed the baton to Bob Sheehan, 27, her understudy the past three years, who has the title of arts administrator. Russell stayed on for the summer, serving as his transitional mentor. Russell was a music educator in New Jersey and Connecticut before her family moved to North Conway in the early 1980s. She taught music at the Josiah Bartlett Elementary School in Bartlett and the Kenneth E. Brett School in Tamworth. n 1982, she was asked to help plan an outdoor concert in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the Volvo Tennis Tournament. “The concert was a huge success, with phone calls and letters coming to the chamber office afterward, requesting that it become an annual affair,” Russell recalled, and from this concert, Arts Jubilee became a sponsored summer event in Mt Washington Valley. According to Cindy Russell, Arts Jubilee’s mission has remained the same since the beginning: to bring live performing arts rarely found outside metropolitan centers to the residents and visitors of the greater Mount Washington Valley. The concert series evolved over the years and has been held at Cranmore Mountain since 2006. Formerly executive director of the Mount Washington Valley Musical Arts Association, she continues to promote the organization’s events, including the annual Bach Festival through her website, mwvevents.com. In the past, she has managed the town of Conway’s Fourth of July Celebration, Mt. Washington Valley New Year’s Festival; Polar Express and the Jackson, NH Bicentennial Celebration in 2000.
She also chaired the Conway Whitaker Homesite Masterplan Committee for the Whitaker property at the head of North Conway’s Main Street and was also the driving force behind the creation of the Connie Davis Watson Park, located at the corner of Main and Pine Streets in North Conway Village.
For more information about the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce call at 603-356-5701 or visit MtWashingtonValley.org.
Information in story contributed to by:
Marti Mayne
PR Manager, Mt Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce
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An ambulance travels down Eastman Road in Conway during the October 27th nor’easter. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
CONWAY,NH – The first nor’easter of the season caught many valley residents off guard leading to dozens of calls for help. The nor’easter, which was the remnants of what used to be Hurricane Willa, dumped snow on the Mount Washington valley in a matter of hours. Lt. Mattei from the Conway Police Department said that they had a 67 calls for service from noon to 5:00 pm with the majority of them being storm related.
Lt. Mattie said they had 11 accidents called in with many vehicles sliding off roadways, luckily no major injuries were reported. Conway Police said that they had 4 officers on going from call to call but many people who had slid off the roads were able to get out prior to an officer arriving on scene.
According to the police log there were so many calls for vehicles off the road that at one point in time the logs note that the tow trucks were all tied up and leaving one individual stuck for almost an hour.
Police were called to multiple reports of trees on power lines including lines down on West Side Road, East Conway Road and Route 16 in Conway near Conway Market Place. Power was out in many areas around Conway, as well as in Bartlett, Intervale, and Fryeburg during the storm.
Lt. Mattie expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped during the storm saying “I want to thank our officers who were responding to the calls in less than desirable driving conditions. I would like to give a big thank you to our two dispatchers, Dispatcher McGinley and Dispatcher Gillis, who answered all of these calls with great professionalism and patience. Finally, I would like to thank the citizens and friends of Conway who displayed great patience during the storm helped one another through our first major winter weather event. Practice makes perfect and I’m sure we will see a few more of these days in the near future.”
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Fryeburg Police Officers and Chief Potvin stand by the sign memorializing Officer Nathan Desjardins. ~ Photo courtesy of Fryeburg Police Facebook page.
FRYEBURG, ME – A Fryeburg Officer killed in the line of duty was honored yesterday in a bridge dedication ceremony. At 2 o’clock yesterday afternoon in front of a crowd of around 50 people the Canal Bridge in Fryeburg was renamed the Nathan Desjardins Memorial Bridge.
Officer Desjardins was killed in 2017 when he was thrown from a boat while searching for a woman who went missing on the Saco River.
Officer Nathan Desjardins lost his life while searching for a woman who went missing on the Saco River in 2017 ~ Photo courtesy of Fryeburg Police.
Desjardins was only 20-year-old, making him the youngest person to ever join the Fryeburg Police force.
Desjardin’s mother threw a memorial wreath of off the bridge during the dedication ceremony. ~ Courtesy Photo.
During the ceremony Desjardins mother threw a wreath off of the bridge into the Saco to memorialize her son. In attendance was State Representative Nathan Wadsworth, Sen. James Hamper several town officials as well as the Fryeburg Police.
Fryeburg Police Chief Joshua Potvin speaks during the bridge dedication ceremony. ~ Photo courtesy of Fryeburg Police Facebook page.
The idea to rename the state-owned Canal Bridge on Route 5 in Fryeburg was spearheaded by Police Chief Joshua Potvin and state Rep. Wadsworth, who sponsored legislation with state Sen. James Hamper.
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-10-29 10:58:062018-10-29 10:58:06Fallen Fryeburg Officer Honored By Bridge Dedication
Andrew Carlson had huddled under Madison Spring Hut to protect himself from the elements while he waited for rescuers. ~ Photo courtesy of Matt Bowman of AVSAR.
LOW & BURBANK’S GRANT , NH – A hiker was rescued near Mount Madison after activating his emergency beacon.
Fish and Game officials said that at 9am yesterday the International Emergency Response Coordination Center alerted them to an emergency beacon activation by the near the northern section of the Presidential Range. There was little to no information provided other than that it belonged to Andrew Carlson of Madeira Beach, Florida.
Carlson had reportedly departed from Pinkham Notch the previous morning in an attempt to hike south along the Appalachian Trail. He was attempting to complete a large section of the presidential range before the weather got too bad. Attempts to contact Carlson on his cell phone were unsuccessful, so a rescue effort was initiated.
Rescuers traversed waste deep snow in mid-winter conditions on the presidential range in order to rescued. ~ Photo courtesy of Matt Bowman of AVSAR.
Rescuers from the Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue and members of the Fish and Game Advanced Search and Rescue Team responded facing brutal mid-winter conditions with a steady wind speeds of around 40mph and a wind chill of negative 1 degrees.
Rescuers trudged through up to 3 feet of snow on upper elevation trails for several hours finally locating Carlson at the Madison Spring Hut at 1:40 Wednesday afternoon. He was cold but alive and huddled underneath the building to protect himself from the elements.
Despite the challenging conditions Carlson was able to hike out under his own power with rescuers arriving safely at the trailhead at 4:30 p.m.
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-10-26 11:07:472018-10-26 11:12:04Florida Hiker Rescued On Mt. Madison After Emergency Beacon Activation
CONWAY, NH – This Saturday is national prescription drug take back day. Police stations all across the U.S. will be collecting unused or outdated prescription and over the counter drugs, with no questions asked.
The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.
The United States Drug Enforcement administration said “Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That’s dangerous and often tragic. That’s why it was great to see thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in safely and anonymously – a record amount of prescription drugs.”
Those looking for a location near them to dispose of drugs can find one by clicking here.
Not sure what is being collected or how to properly dispose of unused or unwanted medications?
Click here to check out this handy guide from the DEA.
During the last Drug Take Back day in April 2018 New Hampshire had 120 law enforcement officials participated at 122 different locations and collected a whopping 14,895 lbs (7.4 Tons) of drugs in one day! Since the start of national Drug Take Back Day New Hampshire has collected a total of 113,508 lbs (56.75 Tons) of drugs since the fall of 2010.
Nationally 4,683 law enforcement officials participated at 5,842 different locations and together collected 949,046 lbs. (474.5 Tons) of drugs across the United States.
More information on Drug Take Back day and how you can help to keep prescription drugs out of the wrong hands go to takebackday.dea.gov
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Photo of the chair lifts on Wildcat Mountain on Wednesday (10/24/18). Photo Courtesy of Wildcat Mountain
Pinkham Notch, NH – October 24, 2018 – Wildcat Mountain, recently named the home to the Best Scenery in the East by Ski Magazine, is pleased to announce that it will open for top-to-bottom skiing and riding at 9:00 a.m. this Saturday, October 27, 2018, marking the earliest opening in Wildcat’s 61-year history of lift-serviced operations.
“We always circle October 15th on the calendar as our official start date for snowmaking, but it’s up to Mother Nature to come through with the right temperatures. This year, she delivered and our team hit the mountain hard with snowmaking on Friday, October 19th, and just one week later, we are ready to ski Lynx.” said Brian Heon, general manager and vice president of Wildcat Mountain. “Not to mention the foot of fresh snow we received on Wednesday, that was really the icing on the cake!”
Photo of Wildcat Mountain on Wednesday (10/24/18). Photo Courtesy of Wildcat Mountain
On Saturday, October 27, Wildcat Mountain will open with the most vertical skiing and riding in The East, with 2100 feet of summit-to-base skiing off the Wildcat Express for advanced skiers on the Lynx network of trails. Please note that there will be no beginner terrain available.
“We are extremely excited to open two of New England’s legendary resorts so early,” stated Jesse Boyd, Senior VP of Operations for Peak Resorts. “Both Wildcat and Mount Snow have strong, dedicated snowmaking teams which make these early openings possible.”
Wildcat will begin operating weekends only, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. with the Wildcat Express spinning, while inside, guests will find the cafeteria, retail shop, and the Wildcat Pub open for business. The mountain looks forward to welcoming guests seven days a week in the future at a date to be announced.
Wildcat guest services will be open 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily leading up to opening for passholders looking to pick up their passes early and avoid the rush on Saturday.
Lift tickets will be available at ticket window for $55 for all ages, starting 30 minutes before lifts spin. Guests are encouraged to purchase lift tickets in advance and always find the best deals by visiting store.skiwildcat.com.
https://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpg00Tonyhttps://www.wmwv.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-1.jpgTony2018-10-25 05:45:142018-10-25 05:45:14Wildcat Mountain Opening The Earliest In Their 61-Year History
News Director Christian Mower Interviews District 1 Incumbent State Representative & Speaker of the House Gene Chandler
Gene Chandler the incumbent State Representative for district 1 as well as the current Speaker of the house. Representative Chandler came into the studio to talk with News Director Christian Mower about the issues and why voters should re-elect him to represent them in the state house. You can listen to the interview below.
The mid-term elections are on November 6th. For more information about Jerry and where he stands on the issues important to you go to facebook.com/genechandlernh
Medical Condition Causes Conway Car Accident
CONWAY, NH – A portion of West Side Road in Conway was closed for several hours today after a motor vehicle accident. Conway Police said that at 10:50 this morning Officers responded to a single vehicle accident near the intersection of Evergreen Drive on West Side Road.
According to witnesses the who were following the SUV with Massachusetts plates said it was headed northbound when it veered off the road and struck a tree. When Police and rescue crews arrived the 83-year-old female driver and sole occupant was found to be deceased.
Authorities said it appeared that the driver suffered an unknown medical condition prior to the crash and that was most likely the cause of her death.
Immediately following the crash, a portion of West Side Road was closed down to a single lane in order to allow the Conway Police Department Accident Reconstruction Team to document the scene. It was reopened at 1:30pm.
The name of the driver is being withheld pending the notification of her family.
News Director Christian Mower Interviews District 3 Incumbent State Representative Jerry Knirk
Jerry Knirk is one of the incumbent State Representatives for district 3 representing Madison, Albany, Tamworth, and Freedom. Representative Knirk came into the studio to talk with News Director Christian Mower about the issues and why voters should re-elect him to represent them in the state house. You can listen to the interview below.
The mid-term elections are on November 6th. For more information about Jerry and where he stands on the issues important to you go to jerryknirk.com
Sold Out Crowd Attends 106th Mount Washington Valley Chamber Of Commerce Annual Meeting
NORTH CONWAY, NH – It was a night of wining, dinning, and networking yesterday (10/29/18) during the 106th Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting.
A sold out crowd filled with Chamber members, business leaders, and local representatives came out to the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort to look back at the years successes when it comes to local business in the Valley.
Outgoing MWVCC Board President Tad Furtado hugs MWVCC Executive Director Janice Crawford during his farewell speech. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
On a more somber note the Chamber Board President Tad Furtado gave his farewell speech during the meeting, as he is stepping down from office after being the president for 6 years. Christopher Bellis will be stepping in as the next board President.
In addition to the evening of networking was a celebration of Valley staples who worked tirelessly to better not just their businesses but the success of the Mount Washington Valley as well during the Annual Business Awards.
Antonella Bliss, Lindsey Maihos and Rose Robinson of Coldwell Banker Wright Realty accepting the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
This year the Entrepreneur of the Year Award went the team at Coldwell Banker Wright Realty of Antonella Bliss, Lindsey Maihos and Rose Robinson. Their leadership at Coldwell Banker Wright began the same year as the economic crisis, and though the company has experienced ups and downs, 11 years later it has more than doubled its sales volume.
Dick Badger of Badger Realty accepting the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
This year the Employer of the Year Award was awarded to Badger Realty. Since 1965, Badger Realty has been a staple of the Mount Washington Valley and a leader of community projects, volunteerism, and advancement. Dick Badger & Brenda Leavitt have created a family-oriented culture within an industry that had not historically been recognized through teamwork. They believe in the power of continuing education and encourage their employees to continue their professional development through education and training whenever possible.
This year the White Mountains Treasure Award wasn’t award to just one person but to three very deserving individuals.
Floyd Corson (center) accepting the White Mountains Treasure Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
Floyd Corson was the first to receive the White Mountains Treasure Award. Floyd can be found every Sunday playing the organ at the First Church of Christ. He began his volunteering experience by stepping in to cover the organ for a single Christmas season, and instead remained the volunteer organist for the last 19 years. As an accomplished organist and pianist, Floyd has brought outstanding musical performances for anyone present at church on Sundays. In addition to his Sunday services, Floyd was the pioneer of the White Mountain Musical Arts and the Bach Festival, which celebrated its 30th year this past summer. Floyd is highly regarded amongst his peers and the main reason the Mount Washington Valley has been fortunate enough to host so many talented musicians of his field for such little money is a result of their respect for him.
Shirley (center left) and Richard Van Dyne (center right) accepting their White Mountains Treasure Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
The second and third recipients of the White Mountains Treasure Award were Shirley and Richard Van Dyne, described as mainstays of Memorial Hospital’s entrance for 10 years – and that’s just the beginning. The list of Shirley & Richard Van Dyne’s combined service is extensive, and includes (but is probably not limited to) helping with Tin Mountain Conservation Center, North Conway Community Center, MWV Mud Bowl, Volvo Tennis Tournament, RSVP of Carroll County, The Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, John Fuller School reading programs, Madison Elementary School, the Albany Historical Society, Girl Scouts of America, Meals on Wheels, blood drives with the American Red Cross, the Albany Civic Group, and Memorial Hospital. The Van Dyne’s have logged in over 2500 hours of service to Memorial Hospital alone over these last ten years, and their service to the community through the aforementioned organizations spans more than 50 years.
Cindy Russell (center) accepting the Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
This year’s Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award recipient was Cindy Russell. Cindy Russell, 76, stepped down prior to this past season as executive director of Arts Jubilee, the valley’s celebration of the performing arts. She passed the baton to Bob Sheehan, 27, her understudy the past three years, who has the title of arts administrator. Russell stayed on for the summer, serving as his transitional mentor. The concert series evolved over the years and has been held at Cranmore Mountain since 2006. Formerly executive director of the Mount Washington Valley Musical Arts Association, she continues to promote the organization’s events, including the annual Bach Festival through her website, mwvevents.com. In the past, she has managed the town of Conway’s Fourth of July Celebration, Mt. Washington Valley New Year’s Festival; Polar Express and the Jackson, NH Bicentennial Celebration in 2000.
For more information about the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce call at 603-356-5701 or visit MtWashingtonValley.org.
Information in story contributed to by:
Marti Mayne
PR Manager, Mt Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce
207-846-6331
PR@mtwashingtonvalley.org
106th Annual Mount Washington Valley Chamber Of Commerce Annual Meeting Tonight
NORTH CONWAY, NH -Tonight (10/30/18) is the 106th Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting. The annual dinner will be taking place at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort this year, and brings together elected officials, chamber members and guests to network and review the impact the chamber has had on the local business environment and community.
The dinner will feature the Mount Washington Valley Annual Business awards where the Chamber recognizes successful businesses with the Employer of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and White Mountains Treasure awards. Additionally, once again this year, the Chamber will present the Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award in conjunction with the Steve Eastman family.
This evenings events include an extensive silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and networking opportunities during the cocktail hour.
Registration opens at 5:00pm with cocktails and festivities. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm with a brief meeting and review of the Chamber’s past year and future initiatives.
Every Year the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce (MWVCC) calls for nominations and then recognizes successful businesses during the awards.
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award is awarded each year to a business in existence for seven or more years which fills a need within the community and demonstrates creativity, innovation and community involvement. Additionally, the business must be people-and-principle oriented as well as profitable.
This year the Entrepreneur of the Year Award goes the team at Coldwell Banker Wright Realty of Antonella Bliss, Lindsey Maihos and Rose Robinson. Their leadership at Coldwell Banker Wright began the same year as the economic crisis, and though the company has experienced ups and downs, 11 years later it has more than doubled its sales volume. Their commitment toward the industry has pushed them to host a real estate course in Conway for young professionals, which gives the opportunity to take the course and obtain a real estate license here in the Valley, where in the past had to be done away from the area. As a business team, they give back to the community through time and donations, encouraging others within the company to also give back to the community.
The Employer of the Year Award is given each year to a business that demonstrates respect for employees and other business partners and excellence in creating a safe and inviting workplace. The Employer of the Year is also a business offering solid pay/benefits and the opportunity for training and advancement.
This year the Employer of the Year Award goes to Badger Realty. Since 1965, Badger Realty has been a staple of the Mount Washington Valley and a leader of community projects, volunteerism, and advancement. Dick Badger & Brenda Leavitt have created a family-oriented culture within an industry that had not historically been recognized through teamwork. They believe in the power of continuing education and encourage their employees to continue their professional development through education and training whenever possible.
The White Mountains Treasure Award recognizes individuals in the Mt. Washington Valley who have given a lifetime of time and talent to the Valley. The award was established as a way to honor individuals who exemplify that success is not measured by what they accomplish in life for themselves but by what they do for others and the community.
The first recipient for the 2019 White Mountains Treasure Award is Floyd Corson. Floyd can be found every Sunday playing the organ at the First Church of Christ. He began his volunteering experience by stepping in to cover the organ for a single Christmas season, and instead remained the volunteer organist for the last 19 years. As an accomplished organist and pianist, Floyd has brought outstanding musical performances for anyone present at church on Sundays. In addition to his Sunday services, Floyd was the pioneer of the White Mountain Musical Arts and the Bach Festival, which celebrated its 30th year this past summer. Floyd is highly regarded amongst his peers and the main reason the Mount Washington Valley has been fortunate enough to host so many talented musicians of his field for such little money is a result of their respect for him. He’s also an accomplished hiker, who’s summited all of New Hampshire’s 4000 footers, and this passion has moved him to volunteer at the Mount Washington Observatory.
The second recipient of the White Mountains Treasure Award are Shirley and Richard Van Dyne, described as mainstays of Memorial Hospital’s entrance for 10 years – and that’s just the beginning. The list of Shirley & Richard Van Dyne’s combined service is extensive, and includes (but is probably not limited to) helping with Tin Mountain Conservation Center, North Conway Community Center, MWV Mud Bowl, Volvo Tennis Tournament, RSVP of Carroll County, The Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, John Fuller School reading programs, Madison Elementary School, the Albany Historical Society, Girl Scouts of America, Meals on Wheels, blood drives with the American Red Cross, the Albany Civic Group, and Memorial Hospital. The Van Dyne’s have logged in over 2500 hours of service to Memorial Hospital alone over these last ten years, and their service to the community through the aforementioned organizations spans more than 50 years.
The Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award was created to honor of the late Steve Eastman, (1949-2008) former MWVCC board member, longtime community leader and former Mountain Ear newspaper founding publisher and editor, this award recognizes a strong community leader. Steve’s business life personified what it means to give back to the community. Through his editorial coverage and sponsorship, Steve Eastman loved to promote the performing arts and appreciated what they did to enrich the cultural life of Mt. Washington Valley. The Steve Eastman Community Spirit Award is given annually by members of the Eastman family to the person who personifies Steve’s passion and zest for life, for helping the community, and for carrying on Steve’s love for Mt Washington Valley.
This year’s Steve Eastman Award recipient is Cindy Russell. Cindy Russell, 76, stepped down prior to this past season as executive director of Arts Jubilee, the valley’s celebration of the performing arts. She passed the baton to Bob Sheehan, 27, her understudy the past three years, who has the title of arts administrator. Russell stayed on for the summer, serving as his transitional mentor. Russell was a music educator in New Jersey and Connecticut before her family moved to North Conway in the early 1980s. She taught music at the Josiah Bartlett Elementary School in Bartlett and the Kenneth E. Brett School in Tamworth. n 1982, she was asked to help plan an outdoor concert in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the Volvo Tennis Tournament. “The concert was a huge success, with phone calls and letters coming to the chamber office afterward, requesting that it become an annual affair,” Russell recalled, and from this concert, Arts Jubilee became a sponsored summer event in Mt Washington Valley. According to Cindy Russell, Arts Jubilee’s mission has remained the same since the beginning: to bring live performing arts rarely found outside metropolitan centers to the residents and visitors of the greater Mount Washington Valley. The concert series evolved over the years and has been held at Cranmore Mountain since 2006. Formerly executive director of the Mount Washington Valley Musical Arts Association, she continues to promote the organization’s events, including the annual Bach Festival through her website, mwvevents.com. In the past, she has managed the town of Conway’s Fourth of July Celebration, Mt. Washington Valley New Year’s Festival; Polar Express and the Jackson, NH Bicentennial Celebration in 2000.
She also chaired the Conway Whitaker Homesite Masterplan Committee for the Whitaker property at the head of North Conway’s Main Street and was also the driving force behind the creation of the Connie Davis Watson Park, located at the corner of Main and Pine Streets in North Conway Village.
For more information about the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce call at 603-356-5701 or visit MtWashingtonValley.org.
Information in story contributed to by:
Marti Mayne
PR Manager, Mt Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce
207-846-6331
PR@mtwashingtonvalley.org
Nor’easter Causes Chaos In Mount Washington Valley
An ambulance travels down Eastman Road in Conway during the October 27th nor’easter. ~ Photo courtesy of Christian Mower
CONWAY,NH – The first nor’easter of the season caught many valley residents off guard leading to dozens of calls for help. The nor’easter, which was the remnants of what used to be Hurricane Willa, dumped snow on the Mount Washington valley in a matter of hours. Lt. Mattei from the Conway Police Department said that they had a 67 calls for service from noon to 5:00 pm with the majority of them being storm related.
Lt. Mattie said they had 11 accidents called in with many vehicles sliding off roadways, luckily no major injuries were reported. Conway Police said that they had 4 officers on going from call to call but many people who had slid off the roads were able to get out prior to an officer arriving on scene.
According to the police log there were so many calls for vehicles off the road that at one point in time the logs note that the tow trucks were all tied up and leaving one individual stuck for almost an hour.
Police were called to multiple reports of trees on power lines including lines down on West Side Road, East Conway Road and Route 16 in Conway near Conway Market Place. Power was out in many areas around Conway, as well as in Bartlett, Intervale, and Fryeburg during the storm.
Lt. Mattie expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped during the storm saying “I want to thank our officers who were responding to the calls in less than desirable driving conditions. I would like to give a big thank you to our two dispatchers, Dispatcher McGinley and Dispatcher Gillis, who answered all of these calls with great professionalism and patience. Finally, I would like to thank the citizens and friends of Conway who displayed great patience during the storm helped one another through our first major winter weather event. Practice makes perfect and I’m sure we will see a few more of these days in the near future.”
Fallen Fryeburg Officer Honored By Bridge Dedication
Fryeburg Police Officers and Chief Potvin stand by the sign memorializing Officer Nathan Desjardins. ~ Photo courtesy of Fryeburg Police Facebook page.
FRYEBURG, ME – A Fryeburg Officer killed in the line of duty was honored yesterday in a bridge dedication ceremony. At 2 o’clock yesterday afternoon in front of a crowd of around 50 people the Canal Bridge in Fryeburg was renamed the Nathan Desjardins Memorial Bridge.
Officer Desjardins was killed in 2017 when he was thrown from a boat while searching for a woman who went missing on the Saco River.
Officer Nathan Desjardins lost his life while searching for a woman who went missing on the Saco River in 2017 ~ Photo courtesy of Fryeburg Police.
Desjardins was only 20-year-old, making him the youngest person to ever join the Fryeburg Police force.
Desjardin’s mother threw a memorial wreath of off the bridge during the dedication ceremony. ~ Courtesy Photo.
During the ceremony Desjardins mother threw a wreath off of the bridge into the Saco to memorialize her son. In attendance was State Representative Nathan Wadsworth, Sen. James Hamper several town officials as well as the Fryeburg Police.
Fryeburg Police Chief Joshua Potvin speaks during the bridge dedication ceremony. ~ Photo courtesy of Fryeburg Police Facebook page.
The idea to rename the state-owned Canal Bridge on Route 5 in Fryeburg was spearheaded by Police Chief Joshua Potvin and state Rep. Wadsworth, who sponsored legislation with state Sen. James Hamper.
Florida Hiker Rescued On Mt. Madison After Emergency Beacon Activation
Andrew Carlson had huddled under Madison Spring Hut to protect himself from the elements while he waited for rescuers. ~ Photo courtesy of Matt Bowman of AVSAR.
LOW & BURBANK’S GRANT , NH – A hiker was rescued near Mount Madison after activating his emergency beacon.
Fish and Game officials said that at 9am yesterday the International Emergency Response Coordination Center alerted them to an emergency beacon activation by the near the northern section of the Presidential Range. There was little to no information provided other than that it belonged to Andrew Carlson of Madeira Beach, Florida.
Carlson had reportedly departed from Pinkham Notch the previous morning in an attempt to hike south along the Appalachian Trail. He was attempting to complete a large section of the presidential range before the weather got too bad. Attempts to contact Carlson on his cell phone were unsuccessful, so a rescue effort was initiated.
Rescuers traversed waste deep snow in mid-winter conditions on the presidential range in order to rescued. ~ Photo courtesy of Matt Bowman of AVSAR.
Rescuers from the Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue and members of the Fish and Game Advanced Search and Rescue Team responded facing brutal mid-winter conditions with a steady wind speeds of around 40mph and a wind chill of negative 1 degrees.
Rescuers trudged through up to 3 feet of snow on upper elevation trails for several hours finally locating Carlson at the Madison Spring Hut at 1:40 Wednesday afternoon. He was cold but alive and huddled underneath the building to protect himself from the elements.
Despite the challenging conditions Carlson was able to hike out under his own power with rescuers arriving safely at the trailhead at 4:30 p.m.
Saturday Is National Drug Take Back Day
CONWAY, NH – This Saturday is national prescription drug take back day. Police stations all across the U.S. will be collecting unused or outdated prescription and over the counter drugs, with no questions asked.
The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.
The United States Drug Enforcement administration said “Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That’s dangerous and often tragic. That’s why it was great to see thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in safely and anonymously – a record amount of prescription drugs.”
Those looking for a location near them to dispose of drugs can find one by clicking here.
Not sure what is being collected or how to properly dispose of unused or unwanted medications?
Click here to check out this handy guide from the DEA.
During the last Drug Take Back day in April 2018 New Hampshire had 120 law enforcement officials participated at 122 different locations and collected a whopping 14,895 lbs (7.4 Tons) of drugs in one day! Since the start of national Drug Take Back Day New Hampshire has collected a total of 113,508 lbs (56.75 Tons) of drugs since the fall of 2010.
Nationally 4,683 law enforcement officials participated at 5,842 different locations and together collected 949,046 lbs. (474.5 Tons) of drugs across the United States.
More information on Drug Take Back day and how you can help to keep prescription drugs out of the wrong hands go to takebackday.dea.gov
Wildcat Mountain Opening The Earliest In Their 61-Year History
Photo of the chair lifts on Wildcat Mountain on Wednesday (10/24/18). Photo Courtesy of Wildcat Mountain
Pinkham Notch, NH – October 24, 2018 – Wildcat Mountain, recently named the home to the Best Scenery in the East by Ski Magazine, is pleased to announce that it will open for top-to-bottom skiing and riding at 9:00 a.m. this Saturday, October 27, 2018, marking the earliest opening in Wildcat’s 61-year history of lift-serviced operations.
“We always circle October 15th on the calendar as our official start date for snowmaking, but it’s up to Mother Nature to come through with the right temperatures. This year, she delivered and our team hit the mountain hard with snowmaking on Friday, October 19th, and just one week later, we are ready to ski Lynx.” said Brian Heon, general manager and vice president of Wildcat Mountain. “Not to mention the foot of fresh snow we received on Wednesday, that was really the icing on the cake!”
Photo of Wildcat Mountain on Wednesday (10/24/18). Photo Courtesy of Wildcat Mountain
On Saturday, October 27, Wildcat Mountain will open with the most vertical skiing and riding in The East, with 2100 feet of summit-to-base skiing off the Wildcat Express for advanced skiers on the Lynx network of trails. Please note that there will be no beginner terrain available.
“We are extremely excited to open two of New England’s legendary resorts so early,” stated Jesse Boyd, Senior VP of Operations for Peak Resorts. “Both Wildcat and Mount Snow have strong, dedicated snowmaking teams which make these early openings possible.”
Wildcat will begin operating weekends only, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. with the Wildcat Express spinning, while inside, guests will find the cafeteria, retail shop, and the Wildcat Pub open for business. The mountain looks forward to welcoming guests seven days a week in the future at a date to be announced.
Wildcat guest services will be open 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily leading up to opening for passholders looking to pick up their passes early and avoid the rush on Saturday.
Lift tickets will be available at ticket window for $55 for all ages, starting 30 minutes before lifts spin. Guests are encouraged to purchase lift tickets in advance and always find the best deals by visiting store.skiwildcat.com.
More information at skiwildcat.com/snow-report.