Wide Open saloon Weirs beach

[ChocolateGypsy]

Originally Posted by pjs1342
Hey folks, Beware of what you wish for as far as the Weirs needing to change. Change to what? Upscale is where i see it going in the future which will drive out the working class. I like it honky tonk and bike week forever.

Originally Posted by birchhaven

I am gonna regret bring this up, but there are two major factors why Laconia is the way it is while all the surrounding areas thrive, one of them being bike week... bike week does not help the city or its people.

The Weirs is far more "upscale" today than it was in the 60s when we had the "bike week riots." Back then, the Weirs looked like an atomic bomb had gone off in the 40s or 50s and no one had ever returned. (I still have nightmares!) I agree that the burned building is a safety hazard. But I really don't think the city has the money to tear it down either.

As far as Bike Week is concerned -- IT'S ONLY ONE WEEK OF THE ENTIRE YEAR!! And the quality of visitors has greatly improved with each decade.

IMO, the problem with Laconia is that it can't seem to escape the effects of it's past as a poor mill town and as a "dumping site" for the state's mentally ill... and then there's the prison... toxic waste sites... lack of descent jobs... etc.

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by ChocolateGypsy

The Weirs is far more "upscale" today than it was in the 60s when we had the "bike week riots." Back then, the Weirs looked like an atomic bomb had gone off in the 40s or 50s and no one had ever returned. (I still have nightmares!) I agree that the burned building is a safety hazard. But I really don't think the city has the money to tear it down either.

As far as Bike Week is concerned -- IT'S ONLY ONE WEEK OF THE ENTIRE YEAR!! And the quality of visitors has greatly improved with each decade.

IMO, the problem with Laconia is that it can't seem to escape the effects of it's past as a poor mill town and as a "dumping site" for the state's mentally ill... and then there's the prison... toxic waste sites... lack of descent jobs... etc.

There was just an article about the concerns of this area.
The lakes region in general is becoming one big retirement community.
Jobs and big business are leaving the area and being replaced by retired people who are moving up here into their 2nd homes as full time residents.
Not sure of all the logistics of this but in a nut shell it isn’t a good thing and is progressively getting worse and unless something is done to change it will continue to do so.

As for bike week it dies a little more every year. Starting this year there will be no more closing of the bridge to any traffic.
Last year being the first year my wife started riding a motorcycle we visited the Weirs several times. Each time we heard complaints from venders who are hoping for a more scaled down version of bike week, being less drawn out because they are loosing money.
One of the things we noticed was the people we saw had very few items they bought.
Most seemed content on just walking around and stopping at the many watering holes.
I know for us living here, unless we see a gotta have item, we wait till the last day when everything is marked down 30 to 50% or more.

[birchhaven]

Sorry for getting off topic.
I have fun at bike week, but the idea that it is only one week so it does not effect the area year round, is an idea not followed through.
Too many properties base there income on that one week and the rest of the year are vacant or worse. In a small city economy it is far better to have a more consistent, sustainable year round operation occupy a parcel than it is to have a one week blast of income. There is no need for many property owners to "try". In my view and many others, if bike week never existed the entire city would be in a different place right now. So if bike week ended, slowly all those business owners would need to be productive with there properties, creating jobs, nicer facilities, better neighborhoods, etc.
This all comes back to the wide open saloon. I would be willing to bet that the owner may eventually tear down the building and leave it as a gravel lot so it can be turned in to a tent city during bike week and they will make enough money to satisfy them. With no bike week, they would need to actually do something with the property, create some business, that is sustainable, or sell it to someone who would do something, and I am willing to bet the property would be worth more in the "no bike week" situation. JMHO

[jrc]

birchhaven's theory is really interesting and a different way of looking at bike week. It's too successful and lets people make enough money that week and write off the rest of the year.

If he is right, then as bike week winds back down to bike weekend (my guess) this may be corrected. Time will tell.

His theory kind of lines up with one of my theories about the condo-fication of the lakefront. My theory is that when hotels and camps changed to condos, the client list changed from week long vacationers to owners visiting on the weekends. So the place is dead during the week. Business now have to adapt to that model.

[Woodsy]

To start, with all due respect to the Baldi family and their right to due process… be a good neighbor and tear down that ugly eyesore! To the Laconia City manager and mayor… WTH! If that building was located in downtown Laconia we would not have this issue! The building would have been razed a year ago!

The intrinsic dynamic of the Weirs has changed radically in the last 10-12 years. There used to be a lot of small mom & pop motels that people spent their vacation week in. This provided a large turnover of people on weekly basis for the Weirs attractions and kept them busy. In the last real estate boom those mom & pop motels all but disappeared… turned into condos. This process virtually eliminated 60% - 70% of the revenue stream to the Weirs attractions. Condominium owners are more likely to patronize the attractions 2-3 times a season vs. a new bunch of people staying at the local motels every week. It has always been difficult for any business to make a year’s salary in the short 3-4 month summer season here in the Weirs. Couple that with a down economy and you can really understand the struggle business owners have. Unfortunately I don’t think this can be corrected. The damage is done. The City of Laconia and local business owners need to adapt to this unfortunate outcome and think of NEW ways to attract visitors to the Weirs.

Of the 3 biggest towns on the lake, Wolfeboro has always been quiet and rather upscale, Meredith was transformed to upscale, and unfortunately the Weirs has remained somewhat stagnant. This needs to be reversed. What the Weirs needs is better planning and leadership… The Weirs needs a makeover that sticks to its honky-tonk roots! The Weirs has always been the honky-tonk spot on the lake! This should be embraced not discouraged!

Bike Week should be EMBRACED! Years of heavy handed police presence coupled with economic discouragement by Laconia City Hall have diminished the attendance of Bike Week. Other communities throughout the state such as Meredith, Rochester & North Conway have jumped on the Bike Week bandwagon looking to cash in on what the City of Laconia doesn’t seem to want. This all has an effect on attendance.

I think in order to make the Weirs a destination again there needs to be some radical shift in thinking. I would recommend the Weirs become a designated resort area… loosen the rules a little! Look at Key West for inspiration!! Awesome restaurants… Cool bars with great entertainment, funky shops. Clean the area up. Tear down that stupid eyesore. Let people enjoy themselves a little. Maintain a police presence but discreetly (think undercover cops). No need for 3 cruisers and 2 bicycle cops hanging out waiting for something, anything to happen! Let people drink along the boardwalk and enjoy the lake (plastic containers). Allow outside music in the summer up until 12:00. Encourage people to visit. Adjust the rules so that people WANT to VISIT! Adjust the rules so that people WANT to open NEW businesses!

Make the Weirs friendly and people will visit…

Woodsy

[Wetbiker]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

To start, with all due respect to the Baldi family and their right to due process… be a good neighbor and tear down that ugly eyesore! To the Laconia City manager and mayor… WTH! If that building was located in downtown Laconia we would not have this issue! The building would have been razed a year ago!

The intrinsic dynamic of the Weirs has changed radically in the last 10-12 years. There used to be a lot of small mom & pop motels that people spent their vacation week in. This provided a large turnover of people on weekly basis for the Weirs attractions and kept them busy. In the last real estate boom those mom & pop motels all but disappeared… turned into condos. This process virtually eliminated 60% - 70% of the revenue stream to the Weirs attractions. Condominium owners are more likely to patronize the attractions 2-3 times a season vs. a new bunch of people staying at the local motels every week. It has always been difficult for any business to make a year’s salary in the short 3-4 month summer season here in the Weirs. Couple that with a down economy and you can really understand the struggle business owners have. Unfortunately I don’t think this can be corrected. The damage is done. The City of Laconia and local business owners need to adapt to this unfortunate outcome and think of NEW ways to attract visitors to the Weirs.

Of the 3 biggest towns on the lake, Wolfeboro has always been quiet and rather upscale, Meredith was transformed to upscale, and unfortunately the Weirs has remained somewhat stagnant. This needs to be reversed. What the Weirs needs is better planning and leadership… The Weirs needs a makeover that sticks to its honky-tonk roots! The Weirs has always been the honky-tonk spot on the lake! This should be embraced not discouraged!

Bike Week should be EMBRACED! Years of heavy handed police presence coupled with economic discouragement by Laconia City Hall have diminished the attendance of Bike Week. Other communities throughout the state such as Meredith, Rochester & North Conway have jumped on the Bike Week bandwagon looking to cash in on what the City of Laconia doesn’t seem to want. This all has an effect on attendance.

I think in order to make the Weirs a destination again there needs to be some radical shift in thinking. I would recommend the Weirs become a designated resort area… loosen the rules a little! Look at Key West for inspiration!! Awesome restaurants… Cool bars with great entertainment, funky shops. Clean the area up. Tear down that stupid eyesore. Let people enjoy themselves a little. Maintain a police presence but discreetly (think undercover cops). No need for 3 cruisers and 2 bicycle cops hanging out waiting for something, anything to happen! Let people drink along the boardwalk and enjoy the lake (plastic containers). Allow outside music in the summer up until 12:00. Encourage people to visit. Adjust the rules so that people WANT to VISIT! Adjust the rules so that people WANT to open NEW businesses!

Make the Weirs friendly and people will visit…

Woodsy

I couldnt have put it better myself Woodsy. I've lived in eye sight of the weirs my whole life, if they could do what you said it would turn around the weirs and make it boom again. A couple cool groovy new bars would be cool, You want to attract the college kids, these are the ones that are going to be growing up and wanting to buy places on the lake

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by Wetbiker

I couldnt have put it better myself Woodsy. I've lived in eye sight of the weirs my whole life, if they could do what you said it would turn around the weirs and make it boom again. A couple cool groovy new bars would be cool, You want to attract the college kids, these are the ones that are going to be growing up and wanting to buy places on the lake

Bring back Teen Haven and Winnipesaukee Gardens! These were destination sights that brought hundreds from all over every Friday and Saturday nights. The "Gardens" changed with the ever changing demographics. My parents listened and danced to Duke Ellington. I did the same to Vanilla Fudge and The Turtles. The places were always jammed. I was a teenager and don't think there was alcohol at Teen Haven. I don't know about The Gardens. I think if you were over 21, you'd BYOB!

My parents had friends on Bear Is. that had a steel-hulled tugboat named 'Lil Toot. They'd pick-up my parents and other friends and have a bond fire burning on the steel bow (it was a BIG boat). After a night at The Gardens you could hear the "revelry" from a great distance as 'Lil Toot made the rounds returning everyone home. This wouldn't happen today! The Lake had a lot less people then, but The Weirs had a lot more!

[Greene's Basin Girl]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

Bring back Teen Haven and Winnipesaukee Gardens! These were destination sights that brought hundreds from all over every Friday and Saturday nights. The "Gardens" changed with the ever changing demographics. My parents listened and danced to Duke Ellington. I did the same to Vanilla Fudge and The Turtles. The places were always jammed. I was a teenager and don't think there was alcohol at Teen Haven. I don't know about The Gardens. I think if you were over 21, you'd BYOB!

My parents had friends on Bear Is. that had a steel-hulled tugboat named 'Lil Toot. They'd pick-up my parents and other friends and have a bond fire burning on the steel bow (it was a BIG boat). After a night at The Gardens you could hear the "revelry" from a great distance as 'Lil Toot made the rounds returning everyone home. This wouldn't happen today! The Lake had a lot less people then, but The Weirs had a lot more!

What memories ! I had such a good time at Teen Haven and the Winnipesaukee Gardens. There were so many great bands. It was such fun and the Weirs was booming back then.

[Resident 2B]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

To start, with all due respect to the Baldi family and their right to due process… be a good neighbor and tear down that ugly eyesore! To the Laconia City manager and mayor… WTH! If that building was located in downtown Laconia we would not have this issue! The building would have been razed a year ago!

The intrinsic dynamic of the Weirs has changed radically in the last 10-12 years. There used to be a lot of small mom & pop motels that people spent their vacation week in. This provided a large turnover of people on weekly basis for the Weirs attractions and kept them busy. In the last real estate boom those mom & pop motels all but disappeared… turned into condos. This process virtually eliminated 60% - 70% of the revenue stream to the Weirs attractions. Condominium owners are more likely to patronize the attractions 2-3 times a season vs. a new bunch of people staying at the local motels every week. It has always been difficult for any business to make a year’s salary in the short 3-4 month summer season here in the Weirs. Couple that with a down economy and you can really understand the struggle business owners have. Unfortunately I don’t think this can be corrected. The damage is done. The City of Laconia and local business owners need to adapt to this unfortunate outcome and think of NEW ways to attract visitors to the Weirs.

Of the 3 biggest towns on the lake, Wolfeboro has always been quiet and rather upscale, Meredith was transformed to upscale, and unfortunately the Weirs has remained somewhat stagnant. This needs to be reversed. What the Weirs needs is better planning and leadership… The Weirs needs a makeover that sticks to its honky-tonk roots! The Weirs has always been the honky-tonk spot on the lake! This should be embraced not discouraged!

Bike Week should be EMBRACED! Years of heavy handed police presence coupled with economic discouragement by Laconia City Hall have diminished the attendance of Bike Week. Other communities throughout the state such as Meredith, Rochester & North Conway have jumped on the Bike Week bandwagon looking to cash in on what the City of Laconia doesn’t seem to want. This all has an effect on attendance.

I think in order to make the Weirs a destination again there needs to be some radical shift in thinking. I would recommend the Weirs become a designated resort area… loosen the rules a little! Look at Key West for inspiration!! Awesome restaurants… Cool bars with great entertainment, funky shops. Clean the area up. Tear down that stupid eyesore. Let people enjoy themselves a little. Maintain a police presence but discreetly (think undercover cops). No need for 3 cruisers and 2 bicycle cops hanging out waiting for something, anything to happen! Let people drink along the boardwalk and enjoy the lake (plastic containers). Allow outside music in the summer up until 12:00. Encourage people to visit. Adjust the rules so that people WANT to VISIT! Adjust the rules so that people WANT to open NEW businesses!

Make the Weirs friendly and people will visit…

Woodsy

You get my vote for "Best Post of the Year"!

Well done! Let's get behind any effort to get the Weirs 'right' again.

R2B

[Bear247]

I like your thinking man...

[birchhaven]

I agree with the condos changing the biz model, and I agree a new line of thinking is required and it needs to be radical, but it is easy to say and another thing to get an investor to do, with the current dynamic.
Another example is where the rotary is being built, (I am going to pick on this property for a second but it applies to all) there is the vacant parking lot that has been sitting there forever, the owner has no urgency to invest or sell the property since he makes money from bike week. No bike week... he would have sold to someone who is willing to invest in the property in some fashion that makes money year round or at least all summer, this creates local jobs, increases the population, and in-turn further drives jobs creation. All while creating a valuable tax base for laconia rather than a vacant lot, this added tax base they could use to fix the current laconia school problem, again helping draw in full time residence, etc, etc. I disagree with anything that promotes land owners to not invest in their property (leave it a parking lot) so they can make money.
So it is great to say all these things about changing the rules etc, but if the current land owners have no reason to change they won't.

Sorry if make no sense I am much more articulate in person.

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by birchhaven

I agree with the condos changing the biz model, and I agree a new line of thinking is required and it needs to be radical, but it is easy to say and another thing to get an investor to do, with the current dynamic.
Another example is where the rotary is being built, (I am going to pick on this property for a second but it applies to all) there is the vacant parking lot that has been sitting there forever, the owner has no urgency to invest or sell the property since he makes money from bike week. No bike week... he would have sold to someone who is willing to invest in the property in some fashion that makes money year round or at least all summer, this creates local jobs, increases the population, and in-turn further drives jobs creation. All while creating a valuable tax base for laconia rather than a vacant lot, this added tax base they could use to fix the current laconia school problem, again helping draw in full time residence, etc, etc. I disagree with anything that promotes land owners to not invest in their property (leave it a parking lot) so they can make money.
So it is great to say all these things about changing the rules etc, but if the current land owners have no reason to change they won't.

Sorry if make no sense I am much more articulate in person.

Unfortunately until NH figures out how to attract businesses nothing will change.
You can tear down the ugly rebuild the ugly and attract all the tourism you want.
But all tourism creates is seasonal jobs, not the type of atmosphere to attract or support families.

[Woodsy]

Birchhaven...

That property you mentioned was originally a restaurant that went out of business (Karl's) and later burned. The property owner did the right thing and tore down the building. The owner of the property has since used it for Bike Week parking. I seriously doubt that 9 days of Bike Week parking covered the taxes on the property.

Meanwhile, they found a buyer for the property (rumoured to be Irving Oil) who was going to transform the property into some sort of gas station/drive thru, contingent on approval from the city. The city was onboard but wanted the property developer to pay the COST of the now being built rotary. That KILLED the project dead.

Just another example of how the City of Laconia thinks....

I suspect with the rotary being built and paid for by the city & state this vacant property will be more "buildable" now. No doubt we will see something there fairly soon.


Belmont Resident...

I agree that NH as a whole needs to create jobs and attract families. The Weirs IS a tourist/resort area, no different than Gunstock or Cannon or Sunapee. I think its in the best interest of the area and the state to attract tourists in any manner possible. Unfortunately, the Weirs is primarily a summer destination. There are some fall/winter activities but it is VERY weather dependent. This year there was no snow so there was no snowmobile business at all and the ski tourist business was off as well.

Woodsy

[no-engine]

Thanks for the Karl's site story, which I had forgotten.
Let me add about the Lobster Pound site, especially up hill portion.
It goes unused and ugly all year, till a week before bike week when tent set up starts. When all set ups are done, I am so discouraged, since it's impossible to see that a restaurant exists!!! The Lobster Pound sign is totally obstructed! I tried to communicate that observation to the business via their website, to no avail two years ago.

The entire area looks like it could pass for a municipal transfer station (formerly referred to as the dump): this trash goes here and that used item goes over there, all waiting for recycling by third party businesses. The site is deplorable from the street! It's not inviting at all.

In Meredith, the Hart's and Harley dealer property still maintain their identity.

I think it will be difficult to design a business on the roundabout edge; I can't imagine planners approving new accesses directly to the roundabout, BUT I like the thinking in some recent posts. We can wait and see, if some group will reveal creativity in design, of which I am not.

I hope the open site downhill from Cumberland's will not become another tent/vendor city, or a mobile home/RV park, or a storage unit rental site. Maybe we'll see something attractive and useful year round.

One personal 2¢.

[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

Birchhaven...

Meanwhile, they found a buyer for the property (rumoured to be Irving Oil) who was going to transform the property into some sort of gas station/drive thru, contingent on approval from the city. The city was onboard but wanted the property developer to pay the COST of the now being built rotary. That KILLED the project dead.

Just another example of how the City of Laconia thinks....
Woodsy

I disagree with your information. I went to the meetings about the development of that property, spoke with the lawyers, and attended several hearings at Laconia City Hall. The city was never "onboard" with the plans for that lot.

The demise of that plan was because the developers wanted to combine a gas station, convenience store, and Dunkin Donuts with a drive through, on a very small lot. The concerns about more underground gas tanks close to Laconia's water supply, overdevelopment of that lot, impact on neighboring properties, and the impact on traffic caused the city to reject the plan.

At all of the meetings I attended there was no mention of the property owner paying for any expenses related to the traffic circle. This happened 3 or 4 years ago and I do not recall the subject of the traffic circle ever being mentioned.

[Woodsy]

TiltonBB

The city would have allowed the construction of the gas station. They would have demanded the same triple redundancy as Cumby's up the hill. I believe the drive thru and the roundabout construction was the sticking point for developer.

Woodsy

[Sunset View]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

Birchhaven...

That property you mentioned was originally a restaurant that went out of business (Karl's) and later burned. The property owner did the right thing and tore down the building. The owner of the property has since used it for Bike Week parking. I seriously doubt that 9 days of Bike Week parking covered the taxes on the property.

Meanwhile, they found a buyer for the property (rumoured to be Irving Oil) who was going to transform the property into some sort of gas station/drive thru, contingent on approval from the city. The city was onboard but wanted the property developer to pay the COST of the now being built rotary. That KILLED the project dead.

Just another example of how the City of Laconia thinks....

I suspect with the rotary being built and paid for by the city & state this vacant property will be more "buildable" now. No doubt we will see something there fairly soon.


Belmont Resident...

I agree that NH as a whole needs to create jobs and attract families. The Weirs IS a tourist/resort area, no different than Gunstock or Cannon or Sunapee. I think its in the best interest of the area and the state to attract tourists in any manner possible. Unfortunately, the Weirs is primarily a summer destination. There are some fall/winter activities but it is VERY weather dependent. This year there was no snow so there was no snowmobile business at all and the ski tourist business was off as well.

Woodsy

Or as my wife always reminds me; beauty fades, dumb is forever!

[no-engine]

The condition is absolutely ludicrous.

Saw today, the Meredith Dover Street 2.5 story building that had serious fire over the weekend, what looked like inspectors with Fire Department protective gear, seriously looking at the second floor back deck! Speculate looking for cause of fire.

Also, People NOT dressed like that removing personal items from first floor. Two large trash containers filling with bags of stuff.

What is wrong with owners at Weirs building? Fours days in Meredith and work is being done! Come on Baldi family, move on!!!!

WE JUST CAN NOT UNDERSTAND. We hope owners of adjacent properties get together and force city of Laconia to proceed with demolition and a property lien!

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by no-engine

What is wrong with owners at Weirs building? Fours days in Meredith and work is being done! Come on Baldi family, move on!!!!

Two issues remain here...One is can it be rebuilt or not...If not, it has to be demolished. Issue #2 deals with the insurance...the carrier is denying coverage...If I was the property owner, I would want to exhaust all avenues before the demolition came out of my wallet. Until that is resolved, the building will stand, I'm afraid. Unfortunately, the world of litigation is indeed a painfully slow one. As a former underwriter and manager with a top 25 insurance company, I saw litigation take not just months, not just years, but literally decades to be resolved. Hopefully this will not fall into the latter time frame.

All of this does not change the fact that it is an eyesore, and yes, we all would like to see it either repaired or razed, but I for one still would like the owners to be afforded their just due in the legal system.

[Winnisquamguy]

Looks like things are finally starting to come together. It has been a long road with not much support from the community. My love goes out to all you supports who have been there for me and my family, and understand the depths of how complicated this has all been. I know I still have a while before I reach the top of giant hill, and for all you local nasty's......well I belive in karma. I have not lost my fight or my strength, so I will continue on and remain hopeful.

[Resident 2B]

Originally Posted by Winnisquamguy

Looks like things are finally starting to come together. It has been a long road with not much support from the community. My love goes out to all you supports who have been there for me and my family, and understand the depths of how complicated this has all been. I know I still have a while before I reach the top of giant hill, and for all you local nasty's......well I belive in karma. I have not lost my fight or my strength, so I will continue on and remain hopeful.

Classy (not) or what? Tear this eyesore down. It is killing property values and property sales in the area.

R2B

[SIKSUKR]

Wow! Poor me, not much support from the local nastys. What? I'm not a local but I do agree with one of the statements. Karma. Hope it bites the right hand.

[Winnisquamguy]

Originally Posted by Resident 2B

Classy (not) or what? Tear this eyesore down. It is killing property values and property sales in the area.

R2B

Hey don't shoot the messenger, I just copy and pasted what she wrote on her Facebook page!!

[Resident 2B]

Originally Posted by Winnisquamguy

Hey don't shoot the messenger, I just copy and pasted what she wrote on her Facebook page!!

No ill intent to you at all. I am happy that you posted the FaceBook message. It shows what strange thinking goes in the minds of some people.

How someone can be responsible for the longevity of that eyesore and call other people "local natsy's" [sic] really is hard to understand.

I am within 1,500 feet of that place. I have been trying to sell on and off for two years and the feedback from my broker is potential buyers are concerned about the rundown look of that burnt out building near the bridge and its negative impact on the general area.

Sorry for the misunderstanding.

R2B

[ChocolateGypsy]

Bike week was never a "family" event. And like I said, it's only one week that people who find it annoying have to put up with it. (Not like the traffic in Meredith *all* summer long!) I had always thought of it as sort of "Spring Break for Antichrists." Until I went a few times recently and found myself thinking: "Man, this is lame... the only thing to do is walk around and shop. Where's the party?? I'm not gettin' any younger y'know?"

Unfortunately, like what's happened to Spring Break in Fort Lauderdale, I believe trying to tame the event has driven the crowds elsewhere. It used to be a week where wild, crazy, sh*t happened -- folks went home and told their friends about it: "We were THERE! We SURVIVED!" And everyone wants to go next year!!!

Come to think of it, if the bike gangs want to beat the cr*p out of each other it would be good publicity (we got a lot of mileage off the 60s riots! ) Maybe they could tear down that building for us...? We could set up a beer tent... blast ZZ Top from the Drive-In... and the building would be gone by morning!!

(you know I'm joking, right?)

[onthebay]

Unfortunately I don't see a change in the Weir's until some outside money comes in and changes things on a grand scale similar to the transformation of Merideth. Looking at what those old mills have been turned into (and not overnight) is pretty fascinating.
We opened up our store on the Pier in 2008 with great promise and high hopes trying to create a fun retail experience that seemed to be missing. The first year we did great numbers even though everyone else was crying they were down 30% from the previous year and had their worst year in 30 years. Figured if business was that good when everyone else was down then things could only get better the next year. Well the next year everyone said they were down 30% and this time we were too. Had to figure the next would be better but the same story. Finally called it quits after this season. I believe Kevins on the Pier did the same.
Each and every year less and less people came. Not just to our store but to the Weirs. We had bad weather, high gas prices, the storm that knocked out the train tracks and the dockage, Ecoli that shut down the beaches, everyone had a theory. This was at the same time that everyone down the Cape was talking about how great things were. Staycations and short trips were in. It looked like they were going everywhere but the Weir's.

[songkrai]

Originally Posted by Belmont Resident

The lakes region in general is becoming one big retirement community.
Jobs and big business are leaving the area and being replaced by retired people who are moving up here into their 2nd homes as full time residents.
Not sure of all the logistics of this but in a nut shell it isn’t a good thing and is progressively getting worse and unless something is done to change it will continue to do so.

.

Correct. In total this is not a good thing for the area. Yes, some jobs do cater to seniors. But with little growth in industry and factories there will be a gradual decline of area.

I think that the Weirs was much better in the 1940's, 1950,s and 1960,s.

And some think that putting a few more Yuppie bars at the Weirs will help? The Weirs is a beach and a playground for kids.

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by songkrai

Correct. In total this is not a good thing for the area. Yes, some jobs do cater to seniors. But with little growth in industry and factories there will be a gradual decline of area.

I think that the Weirs was much better in the 1940's, 1950,s and 1960,s.

And some think that putting a few more Yuppie bars at the Weirs will help? The Weirs is a beach and a playground for kids.

If The Weirs is going to be successful, there needs to be an economic draw. I'm not sure how you make a profit on a strip of sand and catering to kids who have no money?

It was better in the 40's, 50's and 60's because adults went there and spent money. They hadn't coined the word "yuppies" yet. Winnipesaukee Gardens was a playground for adults with money to spend. Today, it caters to "kids" as a penny arcade as do the other arcades. Lots of things for kids to spend their coins on. We need a draw for adults with dollars.

[AC2717]

I think it would be a nice place to hit for afternoon and evening activities, some sit down restaurants some vendors, nice stores, a place where people would want to come and walk around at night, much like lets say the boardwalk in Myrtle beach, or downtown Disney. Not that crazy, but like people say above, make it so people will want to come down and spend the money. I think still have a arcade or two to get the kids involved. but some nice restaurants
maybe a dueling piano bar and grille. and a couple more restuarants with a bunch of local shops for local craftsmen and what not, a couple of arcades, with the mount. with a nice little deal like that who would not want to go up there and stroll the boardwalk. Maybe even a redesign of the road to make some waterfront restaurants


What it is turning into or already has, is been a hangout for teenages to escape from their parents and hang out and cause mischeif. there is also hints of bad elements seeping into the area because it is getting so run down. THe Town should be on the property owners and shop keeps to upgrade or refinish and if that means that somethings close down and are forced to sell, new owners (new money) will come in and revitalize the area. The town should set up a revitalization project and model it from ideas taken from Wolfboro, Meredith, and others around the country

By the way this still does not mean that bike week can't happen, it could.

[riverat]

Point taken.

[tis]

I heard today someone has started a petition to get it cleaned up.

[SIKSUKR]

Originally Posted by tis

I heard today someone has started a petition to get it cleaned up.

Just posted 13 posts behind you.

[kchadw]

There was an article in the Union Leader over the weekend ( Sat. I think ) about the petition....Not sure what it said...couldn't open it up for some reason...probably my computer..

I have lived in N. H., Ma. and Florida and have never seen such an eyesore last so long as this has....it's got to be one of the worst, not only in that area, but in the State of N. H.

Usually situations like this are taken care of within 30 to 90 days. You can bet it there was a school bus stop close and little kids running around, it would have been torn down years ago...

[tis]

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

Just posted 13 posts behind you.

Sorry, please forgive. I was too lazy to go back and read all the posts all over again.

[CGI3]

I just finished reading the transcript..I have one question...How the hell does he get away with it??!! Whats the name on your liscense, I dont know, I don't have it with me,I don't recall, I forgot to list that, Not sure if I owned that, my wife may own it, or run it, but Im not sure, you would have to ask her. When going through a divorce, I had to have every bank statement, tax return, credit card statement, utility bills, reciepts for anything I bought or sold with a value of over 500.00 for a ten year period! If if I did not I was threatened with contempt of court. He pushed "playing stupid" to a whole new level!

[ronc4424]

I have also read the bankruptcy deposition. Could I please have a show of hands from everybody who doesn't remember the date you got married. Lawrence Baldi the third couldn't either!.......

[no-engine]

Originally Posted by ronc4424

I have also read the bankruptcy deposition. Could I please have a show of hands from everybody who doesn't remember the date you got married. Lawrence Baldi the third couldn't either!.......

Strange, strange, strange! No wonder two divorces and three marriages. I've been divorced for 18 years, and married 20 years earlier, and I can tell you the date of the wedding! I do not really intend to remember because we are not together, but I do.
I did not realize that the water slide across street is Baldi also. I wonder if there is a relationship to person who has "yard sale" in upper portion of parking lot on an unpredictable basis.
I really skimmed the file, but caught a statement that Busby Construction is owed some funds. Now, what's that conclude when we see that Busby is the contractor for the roundabout and is using Baldi land for their site office and staging area?
Then, I did not follow along the relationship with the Scott Farah FRM firm which I think has been convicted of Ponzi scheme, investors loosing much money! What's with that name?

[Heaven]

It seems the only chance the city has of having the court give the city the right to remove the building is if the city can prove the building is an imminent hazard. IMHO it doesn't rise to that legal level, so the preparation for that court action would be a waste of taxpayer's money.

[riverat]

Originally Posted by Heaven

It seems the only chance the city has of having the court give the city the right to remove the building is if the city can prove the building is an imminent hazard. IMHO it doesn't rise to that legal level, so the preparation for that court action would be a waste of taxpayer's money.

Seems to me, especially with all this rain. there must be a ton of mold growing in there. that cannot be too healthy.

[upthesaukee]

...way too much ventilation, unfortunately .

[no-engine]

TWO OPTIONS:

1. Let kids torch it again - middle of the night, or when drive-in is playing a movie!

2. Have an intentional fire/rescue training for Lakes Region Mutual Aid, to level it.

Can't figure why contractor would park their equipment so close to building. Scroll back to see photograph.

[Sunset View]

We need to have the WOS razed/removed; Memorial Day weekend is less than 2 weeks away and again, we must live with the filth, smell and disgusting image projected by the burned out dump the Wide Open Saloon is!

This isn't about bike week or the people that ride, it's about the eyesore the WOS has become. How in God's name can the town, elected state and town officals and the especially Gov Lynch allow that embarrassment to continue to stand? Amazing that in this day and age people like the Baldis can control the system, I read all the court documents so I'm not surprised by the inaction but, enough is surely enough! Don Thurston, you are a powerful, reasonable and smart man, you along with your brother Jeff must be able to move this process along. It can't be good for business.

[no-engine]

Well stated, SV!

It's got to be a health hazard for the neighbors AND the Busby workers.
The upper floors seem more precarious every day that I go by.
The wrecking ball would have a blast ~ toppling so easily.

[meredith weekender]

Originally Posted by no-engine

Well stated, SV!

It's got to be a health hazard for the neighbors AND the Busby workers.
The upper floors seem more precarious every day that I go by.
The wrecking ball would have a blast ~ toppling so easily.

maybe the BUSBY Equipment can somehow back into the structure and take it down

[no-engine]

Great idea!
However, when skimming the documents, I understood there exists a debt to Busby; thus only far out speculation that there is some bartering going on. Otherwise, why would any contractor park vehicles so close to a very unstable building???

Media coverage is getting out again: Today's Laconia Daily Sun has a caption under a photo of bulbs being replaced at the Weirs Sign, on front page. WOS in background! Well done, Sun!

[Happy Gourmand]

Originally Posted by Sunset View

We need to have the WOS razed/removed; Memorial Day weekend is less than 2 weeks away and again, we must live with the filth, smell and disgusting image projected by the burned out dump the Wide Open Saloon is!

This isn't about bike week or the people that ride, it's about the eyesore the WOS has become. How in God's name can the town, elected state and town officals and the especially Gov Lynch allow that embarrassment to continue to stand? Amazing that in this day and age people like the Baldis can control the system, I read all the court documents so I'm not surprised by the inaction but, enough is surely enough! Don Thurston, you are a powerful, reasonable and smart man, you along with your brother Jeff must be able to move this process along. It can't be good for business.

Why stop the blame at the Governor? I think it's Obama's fault!
I'm with Heaven on this, like it or not, agree or disagree, the owners, regardless of their community standing and personal behavior, are entitled to their due process.
We'd all like to make this go away, but until the court decides, we all have to abide by and respect the process.
Like somebody said, It is what it is.

[no-engine]

There's a new user named weirs drive in or close to that phrase. Maybe some conversation can be established. There was a post on thread related to the domain name of drive in........

On another stupid note heard as I was gassing my car at the Citgo convenience store, on the Laconia side of the bridge. Another client said that owners of WOS are suing City because "City owns portions of building" because parts are on City property. I commented the road is State, but usually there is easement not ownership. To me, such story of suite is really just ludicrous. What more will come, but that's from only ONE now a RUMOR. He said the building is filled with asbestous!

I saw a Busby pick up truck very late today, and came close to asking driver why equipment is so near to the unstable building.

[nhyitbos]

Originally Posted by no-engine

There's a new user named weirs drive in or close to that phrase. Maybe some conversation can be established. There was a post on thread related to the domain name of drive in........

On another stupid note heard as I was gassing my car at the Citgo convenience store, on the Laconia side of the bridge. Another client said that owners of WOS are suing City because "City owns portions of building" because parts are on City property. I commented the road is State, but usually there is easement not ownership. To me, such story of suite is really just ludicrous. What more will come, but that's from only ONE now a RUMOR. He said the building is filled with asbestous!

I saw a Busby pick up truck very late today, and came close to asking driver why equipment is so near to the unstable building.

Somebody may WANT the city to own part of the building, I cannot speak specifically what the 4 suits entail (I do know that A is suing B is suing C is suing A) fits the scenerio anyway....but that's a stretch that the city has encroaching property lines, (if I understand the "rumor"); the title company would have never given a title policy with an encumbrance of that nature, wouldn't you agree?...let's chaulk that up to another wild rumor....what's not a rumor is that there IS asbestos. That is the reason for such a high cost to raze and disposed of...Glad you posted, it is important that rumors are dismissed as soon as possible. Come to think about it...if the owners would just keep neighbors abreast of "what's happening"..they might find more support than they realize. Oh well, we all conduct our business differently and they must think that this is the best course to eliminate further exposure to scrutiny but based on results not the gossip. Thanks again for posting the lastest so it could be addressed early.

[no-engine]

Originally Posted by nhyitbos

Somebody may WANT the city to own part of the building, I cannot speak specifically what the 4 suits entail (I do know that A is suing B is suing C is suing A) fits the scenerio anyway....but that's a stretch that the city has encroaching property lines, (if I understand the "rumor"); the title company would have never given a title policy with an encumbrance of that nature, wouldn't you agree?...let's chaulk that up to another wild rumor....what's not a rumor is that there IS asbestos. That is the reason for such a high cost to raze and disposed of...Glad you posted, it is important that rumors are dismissed as soon as possible. Come to think about it...if the owners would just keep neighbors abreast of "what's happening"..they might find more support than they realize. Oh well, we all conduct our business differently and they must think that this is the best course to eliminate further exposure to scrutiny but based on results not the gossip. Thanks again for posting the lastest so it could be addressed early.

Thanks for the thoughts/observations.
Owners would also likely NOT get an occupancy permit or liquor license if the bar/lounger were infringing on another 's property, especially State highway right of way!

So right, owners communications to neighbors would create much support! Maybe the group that went to City Council last week should go to Fire Marshal's office, assuming that proceedings are stalled there; media has reported that fire remains "under investigation." My observation: if not now, soon entry to lower level will be extremely bad idea due to instability of the upper floors. I would not enter the spaces, and I would never park my construction equipment so near a disaster "about to happen."

I encourage user "weirs drive in" to post comments!

[nhyitbos]

Originally Posted by no-engine

Thanks for the thoughts/observations.
Owners would also likely NOT get an occupancy permit or liquor license if the bar/lounger were infringing on another 's property, especially State highway right of way!

So right, owners communications to neighbors would create much support! Maybe the group that went to City Council last week should go to Fire Marshal's office, assuming that proceedings are stalled there; media has reported that fire remains "under investigation." My observation: if not now, soon entry to lower level will be extremely bad idea due to instability of the upper floors. I would not enter the spaces, and I would never park my construction equipment so near a disaster "about to happen."

I encourage user "weirs drive in" to post comments!

Update to your thought: Yesterday our WARD I Councilor Ava Doyle delivered in person to the NH Attorney General the petition for review and intervention as to RANKING the case higher on the docket list of the NH Supreme Court. Much thanks is given to Councilor Doyle as she did this on her own because she understood the importance of its message. Also, Paula Tracey of the Union Leader was in town yesterday doing a story on it..our friend John Ganong was thrilled at its delivery to the state and the developing story in the Union (maybe today's?)...he wants it on the Gov's desk...the man never quits (haha)...I like the wait and see...to go over the AG's head at this point would be insulting....yea WB for coming together as a community as a whole...couldn't be prouder.

[SIKSUKR]

I found this kind of amusing when I read it on the Weirs Drive-in website reguarding motorcycle week vendor info.

Wide Open Salon
(property where it used to be)

One could only hope.

[P-3 Guy]

Originally Posted by nhyitbos

Update to your thought: Yesterday our WARD I Councilor Ava Doyle delivered in person to the NH Attorney General the petition for review and intervention as to RANKING the case higher on the docket list of the NH Supreme Court. Much thanks is given to Councilor Doyle as she did this on her own because she understood the importance of its message. Also, Paula Tracey of the Union Leader was in town yesterday doing a story on it..our friend John Ganong was thrilled at its delivery to the state and the developing story in the Union (maybe today's?)...he wants it on the Gov's desk...the man never quits (haha)...I like the wait and see...to go over the AG's head at this point would be insulting....yea WB for coming together as a community as a whole...couldn't be prouder.

The court's going to do what the court's going to do. As a separate branch of government, they don't answer to the AG or even the Governor.

[nhyitbos]

Originally Posted by TMI Guy

The court's going to do what the court's going to do. As a separate branch of government, they don't answer to the AG or even the Governor.

That is true, however, doesn't cost anything to ask for what "you" want...we did...now we'll see...sometimes that's the trouble of society they don't ask because they take "no" personally. AG was interested, asked questions, drove by the site...that's all we asked for. You write as though we imposed ourselves for nothing. Based on results, I don't feel we did.

[P-3 Guy]

Originally Posted by nhyitbos

That is true, however, doesn't cost anything to ask for what "you" want...we did...now we'll see...sometimes that's the trouble of society they don't ask because they take "no" personally. AG was interested, asked questions, drove by the site...that's all we asked for. You write as though we imposed ourselves for nothing. Based on results, I don't feel we did.

No, it doesn't hurt to ask, and maybe you'll get a favorable result. I wouldn't hold my breath, though.

[no-engine]

FYI. A little off subject, BUT... came by earlier today.
Did not think worthy of a new thread.

Sign says paving tomorrow the 21st. think I'll avoid...

[nhyitbos]

Originally Posted by no-engine

FYI. A little off subject, BUT... came by earlier today.
Did not think worthy of a new thread.

Sign says paving tomorrow the 21st. think I'll avoid...

haha....I know thought the same thing and decided I better hit the grocery store today....anything else...Cumberland Farms.....what if it rains???? Do they still pave? Delay? .

PS Did you know that we are trying to get the city to start referring the roundabout as "Blackstone" roundabout...or circle or rotary? There is a plaque on the bridge referencing the brothers the bridge is dedicated to...time to retire "malfunction junction"...unless of course this doesn't work.

[nhyitbos]

Just received a text message that the Supreme Court is hearing the Wide Open Saloon case tomorrow.....let's hope this "rumor" source is reliable....

Here's what I found on the Supreme Court website...looks like it's the opinion that is coming down but is it the "right" suit to raze the building ???

To be released May 22, 2012
■ 2010-679, State of New Hampshire v. Steven Forest
■2011-368, Appeal of Liberty Assembly of God & a .
■2011-381, Appeal of Town of Seabrook
■2011-502, 38 Endicott Street North, LLC v. State Fire Marshall, New Hampshire Division of Fire Safety

[jtb9212]

See attached link for the Supreme Court Ruling:

http://www.courts.state.nh.us/suprem...57endicott.pdf

[RailroadJoe]

Like I say, those lawyers are pretty ...........

[Mr. V]

A well written opinion by the NH Supreme Court.

Logical, and it reached the correct result.

This is interesting ...

"In this case, the Fire Marshal provided the affidavit from Investigator
Clark as evidence that proceedings are reasonably anticipated. In the affidavit,
Investigator Clark specifically stated that “[t]he [f]ire investigation is open and
ongoing . . . [and] I have a reasonable belief that this investigation will lead to
criminal charges.” "

Hello, arson charge?

Stay tuned ...

[P-3 Guy]

Originally Posted by jtb9212

See attached link for the Supreme Court Ruling:

http://www.courts.state.nh.us/suprem...57endicott.pdf

So, this case was all about whether or not the owners of the property could have access to documents from the Fire Marshal's investigation. The court said no. What impact, if any, does this ruling have on the timeline for getting the structure razed? Is there another case pending with the New Hampshire Supreme Court?

[jtb9212]

Again, I will say it like I did in an earlier post. My prediction and I am sorry to say it. It will probably be years before anything is done with that property. Its already been what, 2 years? You have to keep in mind the calibler of people we are dealing with here. The Baldi's would probably spend the equivalent in attroney fees that they would to raze the structure.

Remember, for every attorney that was at the top of their class, there was an attorney at the bottom of thier class. Those are the ones who represent scum like this crew.

They are all about the money. Even if they finally tear it down. Even if they rebuild it. Do you think the people in the Lakes Region are going to embrace them re opening and support their business? I would hope not. Even if they were to rebuild, I am sure at the end there will be a list of people that they didn't pay and a list of people they screwed over. They screwed the company John Carter Sprinkler Company out of $36K for their sprinkler system. Never paid him a dime for all the work they did there.

But hey, lets all hold hands and go to the Drive-In. Better yet, how about some Laconians go to some public hearings and see about getting some vendor space permits denied for Bike Week.

Remember....sometimes some people just suck!!

[SIKSUKR]

I'm not sure these leagal ranglings can be compared between razing costs and lawyers.If I understand whats going on here its whether or not the insurance with pay out or not based on whether the fire was arson or another cause.Much bigger dollars at stake for recovery of insurance than trying to undermind an arson finding.

[Sunset View]

Originally Posted by The Phantom Gourmand

Why stop the blame at the Governor? I think it's Obama's fault!
I'm with Heaven on this, like it or not, agree or disagree, the owners, regardless of their community standing and personal behavior, are entitled to their due process.
We'd all like to make this go away, but until the court decides, we all have to abide by and respect the process.
Like somebody said, It is what it is.

Good point...it is Obama's fault!

[meredith weekender]

I think a bailout might be in order here.

[nhyitbos]

Originally Posted by meredith weekender

I think a bailout might be in order here.

haha...for us or the Baldi's....? What a mess...

[NoBozo]

Originally Posted by Sunset View

Good point...it is Obama's fault!

YES..... BUT HE ..inherited it from BUSH. NB

[no-engine]

Bike week fast approaching, lets see how the traffic at the now partial roundabout goes? I think the plan was live as is till more work after Labor Day.

I keep going by and see no work on saloon. or no partial collapse of the unstable structure. Let's see how many vendors set up there and within grounds of the drive-in, and at the almost inactive water slide & mini golf?

[Sunset View]

Originally Posted by NoBozo

YES..... BUT HE ..inherited it from BUSH. NB

Riiiiiiiiiiiight................and I bet you look like Brad Pitt!

Back to topic: Knock down the dump that is/was the Wide Open Saloon!!! Come on people, it's summer and our area is looking worse and worse each week.........does anyone care about home values, tourists, and quality of community? Take a ride to Lake George, this type of eyesore would never be allowed to happen there and if it had, you can bet your bottom dollar no one would be talking about Bush or OBama; they wold be expediting the process to uphold the image that is Lake George. We need to do the same for our wonderful and beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee! Enough with the drive-in, enough with the waterslide (that also is looking pathetic) and enough with the Wide Open Saloon........the entry to Lake Winnipesaukee is being denigrated by 2/3s of these three estsblishments.......avoid the drive in and the waterslide at all costs! Obviously, the owners care little about our community or their businesses!

Go MITT!

[no-engine]

Originally Posted by Sunset View;

[U

Back to topic[/U]: Knock down the dump that is/was the Wide Open Saloon!!! Come on people, it's summer and our area is looking worse and worse each week.........does anyone care about home values, tourists, and quality of community? Take a ride to Lake George, this type of eyesore would never be allowed to happen there and if it had, you can bet your bottom dollar no one would be talking about Bush or OBama; they wold be expediting the process to uphold the image that is Lake George. We need to do the same for our wonderful and beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee! Enough with the drive-in, enough with the waterslide (that also is looking pathetic) and enough with the Wide Open Saloon........the entry to Lake Winnipesaukee is being denigrated by 2/3s of these three estsblishments.......avoid the drive in and the waterslide at all costs! Obviously, the owners care little about our community or their businesses!

FOR SURE sunset! Great message.

Why not gather all the area firefighters and volunteer fire men/women and create a planned drill. What a training! Pre-planned within & the immediate neighbors, but not necessarily released to the media in advance.

Make it mid-week, very soon, after all the Holiday visitors are gone.
The Busby office trailer and most equipment is gone! A sure sign they are gone till September.

[Sunset View]

Can there be no connection to the dump that is the WB water slide and the run down Drive In? Is there no creativity ? Is there no concern whatsoever about the terrible reputation the Weirs is being cast with? How long will it be before those tourists with dollars to put back into the community will opt for different locations?....can't the town's selectmen and elected officals force the dead beat owners to spruce up both of those establishments while the general public and all the of the out of state tourists wait for the 5 year anniversary of the WOS's fire and tear down?

I ask you, where else would such aggregous shenanigans be allowed? Elected officals, you should all be ashamed of yourselves; I hope you all enjoy "The Dictator" at the drive in Friday night, may it rain like there's no tomorrow!

TIER THE WOS DOWN!

[no-engine]

Originally Posted by Sunset View

Can there be no connection to the dump that is the WB water slide and the run down Drive In? Is there no creativity ? Is there no concern whatsoever about the terrible reputation the Weirs is being cast with? How long will it be before those tourists with dollars to put back into the community will opt for different locations?....can't the town's selectmen and elected officials force the dead beat owners to spruce up both of those establishments while the general public and all the of the out of state tourists wait for the 5 year anniversary of the WOS's fire and tear down?

I ask you, where else would such aggregous shenanigans be allowed? Elected officals, you should all be ashamed of yourselves; I hope you all enjoy "The Dictator" at the drive in Friday night, may it rain like there's no tomorrow!

TIER THE WOS DOWN!

VERY GOOD, Thanks for expressing opinion..... All three properties are family related as you must know! NOW, look at the revenue stream (cash likely) from bike related vender tents, including the bike week association at uphill parking of slide! Many in position for TWO weeks or more!

WHY NOT A LETTER TO EDITOR IN LOCAL PAPERS?

I would, but I work at a business in a neighboring community, and vote there. However, I do drive by very frequently.