What are/aren't we short of in the Lakes Region area?

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Weirs guy

LIforrelaxin, fll is exactly right and as stupid as it sounds some liberal judge has decided that the MWA is responsible for some drunks actions on a road that the MWA has no control over (state and city handle traffic plans, not the MWA). Sounds like someones looking for re-election? There was an article in the Citizen about it a month or so ago.

Didn't mean to indicate any wrong doing on FLL's part I knew he was qouting what he read. My reaction is on simply of concern that this is nothing more then another law suit looking for Money.... I feel bad that someone died.... but all these law suits need to end.... A sign of too many lawyers in the world,.....

[Mr. V]

I wonder what legal theory the plaintiff's attorney is using to advance his claim?

This seems like a fairly "cutting edge" type of case.

Any tort lawyers out there familiar with this case want to chime in?

[mets3007]

No one died in the lawsuit there was an article today on the Citizen Website ( 11/28) that has both victims taking the stand. I feel that there is no way the Laconia Motorcycle Association can control how much someone drinks since they do not control the sale of alcohol which is run by the liquor commission. Both people were injured but not dead.

[Weirs guy]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

...I feel bad that someone died.... but all these law suits need to end.... A sign of too many lawyers in the world,.....

You remember the old joke "what do you call half the lawyers in the world at the bottom of the ocean?"

Now that you mention it though, I know one thing we have too many of in the lakes region!

[gtxrider]

Please don't throw them in the LAKE!


Answer: A good start

[Skip]

Ther jury deliberated for just two hours this afternoon before handing down a unanimous not guilty finding against the City of Laconia & Bike Week Festival organizers.

Short story can be read HERE at the on-line edition of the Citizen.

[Resident 2B]

This was a complete waste of the court's time and the tax payer's assets! There have to be more important things to bring before the court. This was a run for money that made no sense.

The jury did a great job.

I am shocked the judge allowed this to continue. He ruled against at least two summary judgements.

Happy Holidays!

R2B

[Skip]

Originally Posted by Resident 2B

...I am shocked the judge allowed this to continue. He ruled against at least two summary judgements...R2B

No shock to me....remember, the Judge is a lawyer too!

Merry Christmas!

[WeirsBeachBoater]

That Judge is unbelievable. I am surprised no one has tried to have him unseated. Absolutely the worst one in Belknap!

[Resident 2B]

Skip,

You are right! I overlooked this detail.

R2B

[fatlazyless]

Here's some different paragraphs which I cherry-picked from yesterday's Laconia Daily Sun page one article written by Michael Kitch.

"LACONIA - The suit brought against the Laconia Motorcycle Week Association by two women, who are seeking damages for injuries when they were struck by a drunken biker during the 2004 rally, took an unforeseen twist in Belknap County Superior Court yesterday. In response to a motion to dismiss the claims, Justice Larry Smukler indicated that he disagreed with the theory underpinning the association's defense and was likely to instruct the jury accordingly."

'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

"Derek Lick, representing the association , built his defense on a theory of so-called "joint enterprise" that in keeping wih a decision of the New Hampshire Supreme Court, holds that in order to impute liability from one of the partners to the other there must be not only a joint interest in the objects or purposes of the enterprise, but also an equal right to direct and govern the movements and conduct of each with respect thereto." In questioning witnesses throughout the trial Lick sought to demonstrate that while the association promotes the rally it possesses no control over the measures taken by the city to provide for public safety. Likewise, he argued that the association has no authority to regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol, which is the exclusive preserve of the New Hamshire State Liquor Commission."
...........................................

"Smukler, however, said that he disagreed with both notions of "joint enterprise". Instead, he suggested that it was sufficient only that each party to a joint enterprise have the right to control or manage the venture - not to direct one another - in order to impute liability from one partner to the other. Under this interpretation, the question of liability would hinge not on whether the association directed the decisions of the city but instead on whether it controlled aspects of the rally."

.................................................

"As for the association, (former police chief) Oetinger declared that it had no control whatsoever over law enforcement during the rally. "If they have suggestions, it's something I would listen to, but ultimately it was my responsibility."
.................................................
'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Here's something to think about. US military court marshal trials have a jury of all officers, while US civilian trials have a jury of peers. If, the Belknap County jury were all 12 attorneys, how would they decide?

For me , it would be an education to see all the legal bills incurred by the two individual plaintiffs and by the Motorcycle Association. Sometimes, paying for the lawyers can be a bigger punishment than winning or losing a case. How's it go.....well the association won the battle but lost the war....defense attorneys usualy do not extend too much credit for their services....believe it's called staying 'close to the cuff.'.

[Resident 2B]

fatlazyless................

... If, the Belknap County jury were all 12 attorneys, how would they decide?........

What a scary thought!

A jury of twelve attorneys would never make a decision!

Seven of the best on the US Supreme Court hardly ever completely agree.

R2B

[murph]

would like to see the Common Man group add a sports pub to the Meredith area. Watching the games on the small TVs is in need of a upgrade

[MaryS]

Folks, what about a pharmacy???? From the east side of Moultonboro, its a ride to Meredith or Ossipee.....for your medicine.....Surprised there hasn't been a CVS or Walgreens in the area yet.....

[Argie's Wife]

Good point!

Guess we were putting our other priorities first - like more pubs, bowling alleys and the like...

[ghfromaltonbay]

Look how long it took to get a pharmacy in Alton/Alton Bay. 3 banks, 3 hardware stores, numerous beauty parlors, 3 florists and yet there was so much opposition to a pharmacy. Now if we could only get a decent laundromat with safe parking.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by MaryS

Folks, what about a pharmacy???? From the east side of Moultonboro, its a ride to Meredith or Ossipee.....for your medicine.....Surprised there hasn't been a CVS or Walgreens in the area yet.....

Hummm good point.... Personally I am so rarely sick at the lake I never think about this.... but this is an issue for year around residents and those that spend more of the summer at the lake then I....... But you know.... It never crossed my mind...........

[Argie's Wife]

Originally Posted by ghfromaltonbay

Look how long it took to get a pharmacy in Alton/Alton Bay. 3 banks, 3 hardware stores, numerous beauty parlors, 3 florists and yet there was so much opposition to a pharmacy. Now if we could only get a decent laundromat with safe parking.

Agreed! I've always said that if someone took the McGrath's store area, made it into an on-site, 1-hr dry cleaners/laundry mat, and added a one or two bay automatic car wash, AND added a small gym - they'd have a small gold mine! Think about it: you throw in a load of laundry, get your work-out in and your car squeaky clean while you wait!

[KPW]

There are no gas stations between Skelly's and Wolfeboro

[secondcurve]

That is a good observation. Can we please keep it that way? The Tuftonboro General Store used to have pumps, but they gave them up sometime ago.

[ApS]

Originally Posted by KPW

There are no gas stations between Skelly's and Wolfeboro

And before Skelley, somebody operated a "Trading Post" there—painted a redwood color—that did zero (0) business. What a difference the gas pumps made!

[Alton Bay]

I agree that Alton could use a drycleaner.

How about a nice pub with a nautical/historical theme?? Like a Wolfe's Tavern.... It's pretty quiet for those of us "year rounders" come winter.

[Argie's Wife]

I agree about the pub too - maybe we can add that along side the carwash/drycleaners/gym idea I've got and call it "Suds and Studs"

[Weirs guy]

Originally Posted by Alton Bay

How about a nice pub with a nautical/historical theme?? Like a Wolfe's Tavern.... It's pretty quiet for those of us "year rounders" come winter.

I'll tell you, thank god for the Gringo at the Weirs. Beats driving back from some bar in Laconia or Meredith.

[mcdude]

Originally Posted by Argie's Wife

I agree about the pub too

I thought this was the happenin' place in town as far as "pubs" go...?
from the website

To accompany your dinner, our .... restaurant also features a wide selection of domestic and imported beer and wine and a full bar stocked with your favorite liquors. Whether you choose a refreshing ale, a mixed drink, or a delicate, fruity wine to complement the flavors of your dish, we have something in our bar for you.
Also dance music , karaoke every Friday and Saturday!

Alton Bay ..a nice pub with a nautical/historical theme??

...sounds like my kind of place....in fact, it sounds like my camp!
McD

[Skipper]

In my opinion we could use some places where we can practice and learn more about being a better Skipper.



This could be an inside or outside facility.

[GWC...]

Originally Posted by Skipper

In my opinion we could use some places where we can practice and learn more about being a better Skipper.



This could be an inside or outside facility.

Already have this at the Lake

[Alton Bay]

Hey, McDude!
Where is the pub in the photo? Am I missing out on a local Altonhangout with some ambiance??

[Weekend Pundit]

Originally Posted by rrr

How about a farm stand on the southern side?

There are two that I know of on the south side of the lake: Moulton's Farm Stand on Rte 3 in Meredith (not to be confused with the actual farm on Rte 25) and Beans & Greens on Rte 11B in Gilford.

I know Beans and Greens is very popular. My teenage son works there during summer so we usually know what will be picked on what days and when certain vegetables will be available. They usually have a good selection. They also have an on-site bakery.

[Weekend Pundit]

Originally Posted by Acres per Second

That said, I'd like to see a boat anchored in Wolfeboro Bay with the name "Starbucks" on its transom.

Drive-through fashion, it would sell boutique coffees and Shane's (of Maine) ice cream by the pint. Transactions would be conducted by means of a basket passed by boathook.

So, when do you plan to open your "Starbucks Afloat"? I'll be one of the first ones in queue!

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by Alton Bay

Hey, McDude!
Where is the pub in the photo? Am I missing out on a local Altonhangout with some ambiance??

Sure looks like the inside of the bar area of JP China, in Alton. Note: they are non smoking now, in case you didn't know it.

[Mee-n-Mac]

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

Sure looks like the inside of the bar area of JP China, in Alton.

Yup, been there ... drank there.


It's kinda interesting as to who will "win" the pub war in Alton. I like the informal atmosphere of the Diner but JP has Karaoke. (I really dislike karaoke) JP has killer MaiTai's though. I declare both winners and will drink my best to see both stay open.



(My liver be still)

[mcdude]

Originally Posted by Alton Bay

Am I missing out on a local Alton hangout with some ambiance??

Alton Bay....not too sure about the "ambiance" part!!!

[Alton Bay]

Have to admit JP has always turned me off cuz of the smoking. Maybe I need to try it out. What night is karoake?
Is JP for sale?

[Ropetow]

Is there still smoking in JP? If so, how did they avoid the new NH law? JP is listed for sale....$3 million. That's a lotta draft beers and chicken fingers!

[mcdude]

....if you want a smoke my guess is that you just step outside onto the deck with "waterviews"...(water views????)....
...and until recently, apparently, you only had to go over to BayHill Rd. to pick up some pot or some magic mushrooms! (which has nothing to do with this thread at all)

Alton NH - MLS No. 2673055
Offered At: $2,990,000
Former Alton Bay Inn, currently an active resturant, lounge, and rental units. In total there are 5 rental apartments, 3 motel units in main building and 6 motel units in seperate building. Water views, large parking lot and many updates. Many opportunities!!!!

[ApS]

Originally Posted by Ropetow

"...Is there still smoking in JP? If so, how did they avoid the new NH law...?"

They applied for the new "Smoking Permit" from the state—$400.

(Just kidding)

[Skipper]

Originally Posted by GWC...

Already have this at the Lake

Thank you GWC but Capt JP does not offer the kind of skipper training or social activity I am looking for. I'm talking about summer and winter and inside or outside. I'm looking for instruction, socialization and locations for Skippers. Click on the link in my signature line for a better idea.

Check out this site showing some Extreme Skippers

Or this Training for Skippers.

Or these kinds of hints and advice for Skippers advice, tips and hints for Skippers

[riverat]

That's too funny, speaking of magic mushrooms, I think thou has overindulged.

[Weirs guy]

Originally Posted by Weekend Pundit

So, when do you plan to open your "Starbucks Afloat"? I'll be one of the first ones in queue!

I'll be 2nd, right after Weirs Gal makes me buy a boat! The Mount Washington ticket office at the Weirs sells Starbucks coffee, but just the basic black with sugar and cream, no tripple sow cow half latte black sheep tripple zingger in a foam glass cup!

[Island Life]

I've offered my kids $5 for the first one who finds me a Starbucks when we're on shore doing errands (but not the one in Tilton, that one's too far and way too crowded). They've tried to argue for the "we proudly brew Starbucks coffee" places like the Weirs ticket office but that doesn't cut it. I'm sure asking for a Peet's is completely out of the question.

[Argie's Wife]

~slightly off topic~
Island Life - I'm not a Starbucks gal (no offense - if you like 'em, I'll gladly buy you a cup when we're out shopping... too bitter for me) but I love, love, love Cafe Kelim in Portsmouth. It's a Turkish-owned place - very ethnic vibe to the place. But the coffee will rock your world, bay-bee! It's right next to Celebrity Sandwich.

One of those up here and we're in big trouble - I'd go nuts in that place!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

McDude - I can honestly say now that I've seen the inside of JP China. Whoot-whoot. Karaoke isn't my thing and so I've never darkened their door but have heard the karaoke-ing of the buzzed patrons when I've stopped to get my "TOGO" order...

[brk-lnt]

Originally Posted by Island Life

I've offered my kids $5 for the first one who finds me a Starbucks when we're on shore doing errands (but not the one in Tilton, that one's too far and way too crowded). They've tried to argue for the "we proudly brew Starbucks coffee" places like the Weirs ticket office but that doesn't cut it. I'm sure asking for a Peet's is completely out of the question.

Starbucks is making a big push into the New England area now, so it's probably only a matter of a year or two before they have more stores in the area.

[jrc]

Starbucks was a novelty, almost a necessity, when Dunkin Donuts was good but bland and everyone else was dishwater. Now it's just seems overpriced.

As soon as McDonalds starts selling the fancy coffee drinks, lattes and cappachinos, the end is near.

[Rose]

Originally Posted by jrc

As soon as McDonalds starts selling the fancy coffee drinks, lattes and cappachinos, the end is near.

I think you might be right. According to Consumer Reports, Mickey Dee's coffee was the winner over Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts and Burger King. Maybe they'll do the same if they get into the premium coffee drinks.

I'm a tea drinker myself...much easier on my stomach. The Starbucks brew at work was DEADLY.

http://www.foodfacts.info/blog/2007/...anks-high.html

[fatlazyless]

Coffee at McDonald's is free before 7am when a breakfast is purchased. After that, if you look like you are at least 55, the price is 70 cents as opposed to 1.50, "and don't forget my senior citizen discount, blondie.". It used to be 50 cents but they raised their discounted price. It is gooood coffee, way better than Dunkin and I nevah stepped inside a Starbucks .....and a good business plan as easily seen on the MCD 'turn-around' stock chart

The Meredith McDonalds is simply the BEST Mickey D's on the planet!

After 10:30am you can get what I think is a very healthy meal for just $3.24. Choice of a double-cheeseburger or McChicken sandwich, strawberry yogurt parfait w/ granola chips, and small side salad w/ choice four different dressings & croutons/bacon bits, and a freebie cup of ice water straight out of huge & picturesque Lake Waukewan that has been accurately floridated & chlorinated & inspected by the Meredith town waterworks. Plus, you can feel good because you just contributed 24 cents (8%) to the state of New Hampshire which 'sure as heck' needs the money for their roads, schools, and nursing homes.

[Mr. V]

Starbucks has been a fixture here out on the Left Coast for some time now.

In addition to providing a product which people want, it also provides a place to meet, congregate, use your laptop (hot spot): all in all, that ephemeral sense of "community" which is increasingly absent in modern America.

Coffee shops are places to meet and greet.

[Island Life]

Originally Posted by Argie's Wife

~slightly off topic~
Island Life - I'm not a Starbucks gal (no offense - if you like 'em, I'll gladly buy you a cup when we're out shopping... too bitter for me) but I love, love, love Cafe Kelim in Portsmouth. It's a Turkish-owned place - very ethnic vibe to the place. But the coffee will rock your world, bay-bee! It's right next to Celebrity Sandwich.

AW, I'm up for the road trip to Portsmouth, when are we going??? Cafe Kelim sounds perfect and I'd spend waaaayyyy too much time there if we had one around the lake.

I suggested Starbucks because it's the most common higher-end chain that might possibly find it's way into the Region. The quality of the lattes and other specialy drinks depends not only on the beans, but also on the skills of the person making the drink, so good training is important. Peets would be better but I don't see them doing well up there. The coffe is a very strong - some might think bitter - for many people. Sorry folks but Dunkin Donuts, McDonalds and Burger King don't compare. Ideally, I'd like an independent coffee shop that sold great coffee, played good music and was an interesting and comfortable place to hang out for 45 minutes with a friend or alone, reading the paper.

[Weirs guy]

Island Life may be onto something, we need more of the coffee huts like they have out Seattle way (we don't need one every 10 feet like them though) where you can get a fresh brewed cup of whatever you want made by someone who likes to make good coffee. Should be a reasonably inexpensive start up for someone with the guts to do so.

Not me of course.

[brk-lnt]

Originally Posted by Island Life

Sorry folks but Dunkin Donuts, McDonalds and Burger King don't compare.

I'm with you on that! I never understand the lineup of cars outside any DD in the AM. People waiting in line to get a lousy cup of coffee served in a Styrofoam cup.

There is a place by my "weekday" house, that is local, independent, and has a coffee roaster right in the lobby. The brew is always fresh and tasty, plus they make good espresso drinks as well. AND a large there is 4 shots of espresso by default. As much as I like Starbucks, it seems kind of lame to have to order Grande's and Ventis with 1 or 2 extra shots because the default is too weak.

[Argie's Wife]

Call me "Old Fashioned" but... other than "hot coffee" and "regular"... I don't get the lingo of the Starbucks cult. Double? Grande? Latte? It's Greek - no, make that French - to me. It's too much work - what if I mispronounce something? What if I'm asked a question I don't understand? What if there's ten people behind me and my order is a pain-in-the-arse type order that's a ton of trouble for the person behind the counter?

OH, WHERE'S THE HUMANITY IN IT ALL?!

I want hot water that's passed over excellent coffee beans. In a cup. Hot. With cream and sugar.

Simpleton, I am.

[ApS]

Originally Posted by Weekend Pundit

So, when do you plan to open your "Starbucks Afloat"? I'll be one of the first ones in queue!

...And likely the last in queue for a Wolfeboro Town dock slip!

No, not me: the idea is hanging out there for anybody.

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

"...After 10:30am you can get what I think is a very healthy meal for just $3.24. Choice of a double-cheeseburger or McChicken sandwich, strawberry yogurt parfait w/ granola chips, and small side salad w/ choice four different dressings & croutons/bacon bits, and a freebie cup of ice water..."

I'll have to give McDee's coffee a try. BK went with some other coffee that isn't half as good as their former excellent coffee. A manager told me proudly that the new coffee was "frozen".

That luncheon does sound healthy; however, I'll be waiting for a review by jeffk first. I've got three new McMansions next door and need to watch my pennies—after property taxes.

At this moment, the discussion in the new weather forum is titled "Something's Brewing". The power of suggestion?

[Alton Bay]

As a non coffee drinking resident of Alton, I'd love to hear more thoughts on what services people look for in the area. There are folks out there looking for ways to make a living and perhaps we can come up here with some ideas that might be good realistic business oppotunities.

[ghfromaltonbay]

I'd like to reiterate, we need a decent laundromat. The one in town has hazardous parking, too many machines out of order, and most times filthy conditions. Now that only 1 person is running it, it can only get worse.

I don't know if this is a possibility, but now that Julie's is closing in Wolfeboro, there are no places in the area to buy boutique style clothing. Julie's filled a definite niche. When I was last in there at least 4 or 5 customers were lamenting that once the store closed there would be no place like it near the lake.

[kunamola]

I would like to say that there are too many Dunkin' Donuts in NH. Why does a town like Wolfeboro need one? I would rather see a small shop like "Pops" come back and sell homemade donuts, not ones made from a mix.

Wolfeboro has lost many of the places that made it a fun place to shop, little boutiques, clothing stores and interesting gift and craft shops that change their merchandise more often than every decade and sell something other than tourist sweatshirts.

How about a lobster pound back in Wolfeboro? And, I think everyone misses the Hatch Theater. Even the little mom and pop antique stores are going out of business on the north side of the lake.

I miss the little bowling alley in Melvin Village and the General Store. Who needs another antique car place? A gas and service station would be nice between Wolfeboro and Moultonboro. Melvin Village needs an ice cream joint too. Actually, it needs almost anything except an antique car place. Of course the store I miss the very most of all is the Hansel and Gretel Shop.

[Argie's Wife]

Alton Bay -

Non-coffee (decaf!) ideas -

Daycare! Good grief - I can't tell you what we've been through trying to find a good, affordable daycare. Especially in the summer!

Pet sitting services - ditto.

Thrift or re-sale stores - there's one in town but is open a couple of days a week. I'd love a good second hand store or consignment store.

One hour dry cleaners.

Ditto on the comments about the laundry mat.



Now, I don't know how it would float in this town but I've always wanted to open up a Children's Museum in this town. I'd love to get some grant money, find an old building that could be renovated (perhaps the Alton Town Hall - someday!) and make something for kids of all ages that focuses on learning and encourages social interaction.

There's a great museum in Portsmouth - I'd use that for my model - but there's a very nice little museum in Concord now. I've spoken with the owner of the one in Concord and she's told me that many people have asked them to branch into the Lakes Region. The museum in Concord is more for toddlers/pre-schoolers but the one in Portsmouth is for babies to pre-teens, I'd say.

I have a dream... don't know if it will ever be a reality, but that's what I'd love to do!

[ghfromaltonbay]

I haven't been inside since I don't have any children, but there is one in Meredith in a former elementary school. It's located between Main St. and Rte. 3 -- take a left off Rte. 3 just before the firehouse and make a left at the stop sign. This museum was formerly located at Senter's Market in Center Harbor where the knit shop presently sits. Don't know how much traffic they get since they're located off the beaten path. I don't know how much traffic Alton would have for another one. I would think Wolfeboro would have more possibilities for something like that.

[Argie's Wife]

Originally Posted by ghfromaltonbay

I haven't been inside since I don't have any children, but there is one in Meredith in a former elementary school. It's located between Main St. and Rte. 3 -- take a left off Rte. 3 just before the firehouse and make a left at the stop sign. This museum was formerly located at Senter's Market in Center Harbor where the knit shop presently sits. Don't know how much traffic they get since they're located off the beaten path. I don't know how much traffic Alton would have for another one. I would think Wolfeboro would have more possibilities for something like that.

You may be right about W'boro and that... but either way, I think it would be a plus to the area...

[AltonGuy]

Thanks everyone for your replies! This has been a good read and has lasted some time.

I will get started on my "Mom and Pop" owned strip mall in Alton ASAP. Thus far this includes a Coffee Shop, Dry Cleaner, Pet Sitting business and Movie Theater. I'll also leave some vacant space available for those future endeavors (Children's Museums, etc.) To fund this effort I will be placing an honesty contribution jar outside of Curry Realtors. I am sure Steve Gray won't mind!

BTW: I was kidding about the contribution jar!!

[Mashugana]

Originally Posted by AltonGuy

Thanks everyone for your replies! This has been a good read and has lasted some time.
I will get started on my "Mom and Pop" owned strip mall in Alton ASAP.

How many acres of trees will be sacrificed for your strip mall?

There must be others out there that have ideas and thoughts to add to this topic. Now the holidays are done I can work on my list. I know what I think we have to much of but what could we use more of. Everything I come up with is too seasonal. For instance rickshaws around a town would be great but not in winter.

[Mark]

Not enough = We don't have enough lobbyists.
Too many = rules, regulations and laws, and speed limits.

Too many laws because we don't have enough lobbyists.

[Ropetow]

Originally Posted by Mashugana

rickshaws around a town would be great but not in winter.

So just convert the rickshaws to horse-powered sleighs....

[nj2nh]

What Alton needs . . .

. . . someone to rebuild the Oak Birch Inn and make it a good, old fashioned bed and breakfast with a really good coffee shop. Every time I drive by the old steps to the Inn, I sigh. I miss the old place even more than the pavilion.

. . . someone to rebuild McGrath's Gift Shop. I miss those little cedar boxes that I used to put all my treasures in.

Seriously, though, Alton could use a drug store. When my son needed asthma medication last summer, I had to schlep into Wolfeboro and wait and wait and wait.

Alton had a coffee bar a couple of summers ago in that little tiny building next to the Olde Bay Diner. It was yummy stuff, but only lasted that one year.

The best thing about each town not having everything is that is does encourage you to travel about and visit other places. When you do that, you inevitably find some place new to explore or shop. Not a bad way to go, really.

What the Weirs doesn't need . . .

. . . to change one tiny bit. It is virtually the only part of the lake left that is mostly unchanged. If you want Meredith, well, go to Meredith.

I am attaching a page from my scrapbook that I put together just a couple of weeks ago with pictures from the Weirs. Why would you want to tear this all down and build another Meredith???????

nj2nh

[pmj]

Seriously, though, Alton could use a drug store. When my son needed asthma medication last summer, I had to schlep into Wolfeboro and wait and wait and wait.

Alton has a full service pharmacy in Hannaford.

One thing Alton does not need, IMHO, is a motorsport racing park.
Does anyone know what the zoning board meeting results were regarding the proposed motorsport park on Rt 28 S?

[Mee-n-Mac]

Originally Posted by pmj

One thing Alton does not need, IMHO, is a motorsport racing park. Does anyone know what the zoning board meeting results were regarding the proposed motorsport park on Rt 28 S?

Serious ? I hadn't heard of that. With Louden not that far away, I'd guess it'll never happen. How about a short track for shifter karts ?

[pmj]

Yeah, unfortunately this was proposed for the Coffin Brook gravel pit site. The zoning board held its second meeting regarding this the other night. Petitions had been signed by local residents in abutting neighborhoods who are against it.
Lets hope you are right and it doesn't go through. Not only would this be a noise pollution issue, sanitation issue, parking issue, I'm sure I could go on and on.



I agree that a pet sitting service is needed in Alton!

[WeirsBeachBoater]

I am sure you would much rather all the kids stay home, play nintendo, get bored dabble with drugs, Right? Seriously, If everyone keeps up with the NIMBY mentality, and keeps fighting to stop motocross tracks, or snowmobile parks and trails, where do you propose kids with an interest in these sports go???

Don't get me started on this one.

[pmj]

WBB,
Trust me,if you knew me you would know that I am the first person who would want kids to be out in the great outdoors and not inside playing nintendo, computers games or chat,etc.

I am not a fan of having a track like this in my backyard...would you honestly want one in your back yard?

In all due respect,I do not put this in the same catagory as snowmobile trails. The noise factors are quite different, with the noise from a motorcross racetrack being a constant. Noise from snowmobile trails is quite transient.

[Coolbreeze]

I'd like so see less of a few things, I think the major brand chain store franchises are drowning out the charming family businesss the area was known for.

[fatlazyless]

Originally Posted by Coolbreeze

I'd like so see less of a few things, I think the major brand chain store franchises are drowning out the charming family businesss the area was known for.

Without a doubt, that's true. The busiest New Hampshire store that's north of Concord has got to be the Plymouth Super Wal-Mart. It's always open and almost always busy. People drive from all over to shop there.

In Meredith, it's all chains: McDonald's, Aubuchon, Shaw's Jackson Star, Cumberland Farm, Rite Aid, and a Hannaford's now on the way.

Where's the best little independant hardware store around for inventory and price? Amsoil synthetic oils-paint-glass & screen repairs & a million different items is in the exact central geographical spot of the entire state, and that's Ashland, NH, and at hardworking prices.....at the ....ASH HARDWARE in Ashland NH, one mile up the hill from Rt 93-exit 24, and don't be going over the 30mph Ashland speed limit or it will cost you 88 bucks!

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by Coolbreeze

I'd like so see less of a few things, I think the major brand chain store franchises are drowning out the charming family businesss the area was known for.

My wife and sister in law opened a yarn shop in Wolfeboro 3 1/2 years ago. It became necessary to close it down this past year in November. The yarn and products they featured were higher end. After having paid the rent out of our pocket for several months, it was time to close.

Once they announced the closing, and started selling everything off, people (locals) would come in and say "we hate to see you go, you are so convenient), but when they looked them up on their customer base, they had never bought a thing! Many businesses in this area either have to close in the winter or hope that the locals will support them during the slow months of winter.

I believe that in the past year in Wolfeboro alone, there are 10 business that have closed their doors.

the quaint little shops are slowly going away, not just because of the big box stores or chains, but because of a lack of support from the locals. The locals will drive 15 or 20 miles each way to go to a chain store rather than support the local economy. JMHO

[jogator1]

I agree with upthesaukee. There are a lot of locals complaining about big business and chain stores taking over but they are the ones supporting them financially. A lot of the above posts discuss previous businesses that have closed and how the area needs them but there is a reason they went out of business. It's because the local area could not support them. There's a reason why the boutique store closed and there's a reason why there aren't more movie theatres. It's a very difficult region to sustain a business year round and it's much easier for large chains to draw customers from a greater geographical area.

[tis]

upthesaukee, I am very sorry to hear that. Your sister in law is a friend of mine. It is too bad that the mentality is that things are cheaper at the big box stores when in reality, if you compare apples for apples, the boxes are not usually cheaper.

[phoenix]

when you factor in gas at $3-4 per gallon maybe people will stay closer to home

[Grady223]

The same thing the rest of the state needs, good pizza.

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by Grady223

The same thing the rest of the state needs, good pizza.

Grady,

Try the pizza at Waldo Peppers. Since Waldo is from Joisey (NJ - which Exit?) his pizza is the real thing.

Now that you know where to get good pizza, can you tell me where to get a decent bagel and bread with real crust? Being from the NY metro area, we're spoiled as far as good bagels, crusty bread and great German wursts and cold cuts.

[Grady223]

Yo Clifton,

Thanks for the tip on the pizza, I will try it out. If a guy from Clifton likes it, it must be good.

A guy from Hackensack I knew owned a bagel shop in Center Harbor (BayGuls) and I understand the bagels were good. I can't vouch because I haven't been there. He passed away a year ago but the place was still there this past summer.

Garfield

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by Grady223

Yo Clifton,

Thanks for the tip on the pizza, I will try it out. If a guy from Clifton likes it, it must be good.

Actually, I'm a gal from Clifton, but in any case, the pizza is the thinner crispy crust type with lots of air bubbles in the crust. Just the way I like it.

I'll have to try out the bagels in CH, I know just where they are located. Hackensack is 4 miles from where I live. gtxrider just bought some great ones this past weekend from Fair Lawn, NJ which has a large Jewish population and has a lot of good delicatessens and bagel shops. These bagels were almost as big as the spare tire that came with my Malibu. Just as a point of reference, their "mini-bagels" are the size of the Lenders bagels you can buy in the freezer section at the supermarket.

[fatlazyless]

Looks like the Home Depot has changed their mind about putting a store right next to the Gilford Lowe's due to not enuf business. And the proposed Cumberland Farms gas station near Nadia's Trattoria at the old PSNH building was sold to Irwin Ford-Toyota. Cumby sold it to Irwin for 1,050,000.

Having a Lowes move into the neighborhood has got to be like the worst nightmare for local independant hardware stores. Just a short drive up the road to Lowes, parking, free coffee/hot chocolate, atm, rest rooms, lumber and a big box full of stuff...and even yellow tagged bargain close-outs...a lot of the Lowe's employees are women. Even this time of year there's always maybe 30 cars in the lot. Gilford has it assessed for like 12 million dollars, too. So close to Laconia, but so far away, believe it almost sits on the border. Laconia would be moving their border to include the Lowe's if Laconia could get away with it.

I've read that big-box, home improvement stores in places like Brazil, Mexico, Germany & France grow a following of therapeutic massage businesses close by the store. A place where weary tradespeople can go to get their overworked bodies realigned. And, if the Gilford Lowe's could get that going at their reasonable Lowe's prices, that would be my big hope for improving home improvement here in the Lakes Region. Maybe, just across the border in economically depressed Laconia?

[Grady223]

Sorry, Gal from Clifton

Know Fairlawn well, lived 8 years in Glen Rock. My history has been: Garfield, Teaneck, Wayne, Riverdale, Sparta, Glen Rock and now Bucks County PA - summers on the Lake.

Seems that bagels in the NYC area are getting bigger and bigger. Still, if you get traditional Brooklyn bagels they are small, compact and crispy.

I, too, will try BayGuls and we can compare notes this summer.

Grady223

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by Grady223

Sorry, Gal from Clifton

Know Fairlawn well, lived 8 years in Glen Rock. My history has been: Garfield, Teaneck, Wayne, Riverdale, Sparta, Glen Rock and now Bucks County PA - summers on the Lake.

That's ok, a lot of people are thrown off by just the initials gh. GTXrider (my brother) and I have a similar history: I'm Clifton, Ridgefield, Rochelle Park and back to Clifton. My Dad was born in Garfield - Sampson St. GTX is: Clifton, Ridgefield, Union, Piscataway. Hopefully one day we will both add Alton Bay or some place close as the next stop.

It's definitely worth the 5-6 hour drive to Winni, you can't compare any of the lakes in NJ or PA with it.

[CanisLupusArctos]

The lakes region towns could use more community. More of that humble small-town feel that caused so many of us to fall in love with the area in the first place. The essentials are getting increasingly spread out, requiring long drives in different directions.

20 years ago, Center Harbor had a pharmacy (now a law firm)... next to Robbin's General Store (also part of the Canoe & Kayak place) which was next to Andersen's Bakery (also part of the Canoe and Kayak place.) The Wine store used to be a sports shop.

It was possible to park once (boat or car) and walk around to all the places you needed. It even had boat gas pumps. People would come by boat and by car to the same point, and walk around to buy groceries, fresh bread and donuts, a prescription refill, fishing tackle, a couple of outdoor floodlights... and you were likely to bump into people you knew... or get to know people after meeting them a few times. It was centralized community.

I miss that.

[nj2nh]

I think Alton Bay is hanging on to its community feel by its fingernails. Once the roller skating rink closed and McGrath's (not the supermarkey) disappeared and Busy Corner stopped being, well, Busy Corner, things began to disappear. Now the Blue Jay Mini-Golf is for sale. Once that goes, there won't be anything left in Alton Bay.

nj2nh

[nightrider]

Originally Posted by Mashugana

How many acres of trees will be sacrificed for your strip mall?

There must be others out there that have ideas and thoughts to add to this topic. Now the holidays are done I can work on my list. I know what I think we have to much of but what could we use more of. Everything I come up with is too seasonal. For instance rickshaws around a town would be great but not in winter.

How about a strip club?

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by nj2nh

I think Alton Bay is hanging on to its community feel by its fingernails. Once the roller skating rink closed and McGrath's (not the supermarkey) disappeared and Busy Corner stopped being, well, Busy Corner, things began to disappear. Now the Blue Jay Mini-Golf is for sale. Once that goes, there won't be anything left in Alton Bay.
nj2nh

From the Baysider article that McDude posted yesterday, it looks like the Blue Jay will remain as a mini-golf course. The new owner also has the mini-golf in Chichester (near the Weathervane) and that looks really nice. The upgrades he mentioned in the article should see an improvement. If he also adds a pizza shop in the vacant store that will also make that corner a little busier again. The previous owners weren't going to make any improvements, they were looking to retire as their family had left the nest, and weren't going to put any $ into the place.

I'm with you though, nj2nh, the place isn't the same without the old McGraths and Busy Corner. I still remember going by boat to do laundry for my mother at the little laundromat behind Busy Corner (I wasn't old enough to drive a car). A load of wash was 25 cents back then. At that time the post office was also in that building where the "gift shop" is located in Amilynne's.

[fatlazyless]

A post office can relocate to almost anywhere in a town and attract local postal patrons. Let me just guess, not being all that familiar with Alton Bay. The post office's moving out of the general store started the economic slide of the Alton Bay business neighborhood at the point area?

Did any businesses follow, or spring up at the po's new Alton location?

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

A post office can relocate to almost anywhere in a town and attract local postal patrons. Let me just guess, not being all that familiar with Alton Bay. The post office's moving out of the general store started the economic slide of the Alton Bay business neighborhood at the point area?

Did any businesses follow, or spring up at the po's new Alton location?

Not in this case. The PO only moved across the street into the building owned by the Blue Jay. I think the fire in McGrath's was the beginning of the end for the Alton Bay "business district". McGrath's was a combination grocery, 5&10 and clothing store. Once it burned down and the new smaller store opened on that site (it was more like a mini-mart on the lower level and clothing boutique upstairs) the traffic declined. That smaller store is now Gillan Marine. McGrath's reopened as a small supermarket down in Alton and remained there until last year when it became the new 5&10. With Hannafords now at the circle in Alton and most other businesses on Alton's Main St., I don't see Alton Bay's busy corner making a comeback. This may not be a bad thing--that corner is a dangerous spot for pedestrians with Route 11 making the bend there. Unfortunately, not too many drivers observe the 15 mph limit heading around that turn.

[Weirs guy]

Originally Posted by nightrider

How about a strip club?

Seconded and moved for a vote.

The small town shops are tough, and I think of the new owners of the Weir General store when I think of this. They tried their darnedest to stay open year round, but with a new cumbies up the hill and very few of us at the bottom there just isn't the traffic they need. I even found myself driving up the hill because I needed something the General Store didn't have by cumbies did. Its tough, but at the end of the day my wallet dictates my shopping preferences more then my heart.

[eyenotall777]

When you are leaving the bay and start to drive 11E all the businesses/houses for sale? And then you approach the Alton Traffic Circle (which is my mind does not need any fixin', drivers just need to pay attention to the yield signs) head 28N everything is for sale on both sides!!! I understand people wanting to cash in, but would most definately HATE to see the recreational area ruined and hope the Town is very careful on what they approve and let in w/o ruining the character. I would rather drive the 20 min. to Concord/Rochester or Gilford to a Home Improvement store and rather eat @ an independent restaurant than a chain. They are just not needed everywhere. Did w/o them 20yrs. ago everywhere, we can still do it. If people want all that stuff, then choose to live in the city or more populated areas, but then again, I guess there is "built it and they will come"?

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by eyenotall777

When you are leaving the bay and start to drive 11E all the businesses/houses for sale? I would rather drive the 20 min. to Concord/Rochester or Gilford to a Home Improvement store and rather eat @ an independent restaurant than a chain. They are just not needed everywhere. Did w/o them 20yrs. ago everywhere, we can still do it. If people want all that stuff, then choose to live in the city or more populated areas, but then again, I guess there is "built it and they will come"?

I've been coming to Alton Bay since 1959 and it would be a shame to see the area built up more than it is. I never thought I'd see the day that Alton would get a traffic light, but that too has happened. Even having a Dunkin Donuts and McDonalds seems like an encroachment. I prefer to get my "fast food" or coffee at one of the local businesses. I come to Alton from NJ for the summer to get away from all that. I've noticed that a lot of stores/houses are also for sale in Wolfeboro. Black's was sold, the Straw Cellar has been for sale for a while, and my favorite shop Julie's was in the process of closing down last fall. I don't know if the owners are aging out and just want to retire like the Blue Jay owners or if they can't find good help and the costs to run these businesses doesn't make it worth it anymore.

[fatlazyless]

Yeah, a strip club would be a good fit for the Weirs....it's pretty deserted from Sept to May....lots of parking....and if I lost my license for dwi....I could still get there by kayak. NH is not too big on strip joints. There are none in the Lakes Region. What Belknap County needs is a good truck stop with a restaurant and strip club....maybe over by the closed-up water park which is for sale up on White Oaks Rd.

Or better yet, how about in exchange for no speed limits whatsoever, designate The Weirs as a strip club zone....yeah...what a great idea....someone...Call The Governor....even the Mount could have a Wednesday nite adults only night or something.

Hell's bells, even I'd get on-board for that!

[Cristen]

I would love to see a Starbucks in Meredith.

[MRJS]

Since the Weirs is the focal point of Lake Winnipesaukee I think that improvements there gain the biggest bang for the buck.

The area around the drive-in theatre always looks like a dusty, beat-up flea market. It needs to be finished off with a bit of class. A fence with white rails and solid granite posts would look good.

It would be nice to have sidewalks with granite curbs to safely separate the walkers from the cars and bikers all the way to the Tamarack.

The Victorian village should be torn down and replaced with stores and shops that are consistent with a boardwalk. Those houses only cater to a couple dozen people at any one time. The real estate could be used to cater to everybody. It doesn't have to be Meredith-quality, just more boardwalk-quality.

The road leaving the Weirs and heading towards the Tamarack could use a repaving. At least thank all the visitors who are leaving with a smooth, scenic ride.

A lot of times, we don't need anything new, we just need to make what we have look good.

[GWC...]

Originally Posted by MRJS

Since the Weirs is the focal point of Lake Winnipesaukee I think that improvements there gain the biggest bang for the buck.

The area around the drive-in theatre always looks like a dusty, beat-up flea market. It needs to be finished off with a bit of class. A fence with white rails and solid granite posts would look good.

It would be nice to have sidewalks with granite curbs to safely separate the walkers from the cars and bikers all the way to the Tamarack.

The Victorian village should be torn down and replaced with stores and shops that are consistent with a boardwalk. Those houses only cater to a couple dozen people at any one time. The real estate could be used to cater to everybody. It doesn't have to be Meredith-quality, just more boardwalk-quality.

The road leaving the Weirs and heading towards the Tamarack could use a repaving. At least thank all the visitors who are leaving with a smooth, scenic ride.

A lot of times, we don't need anything new, we just need to make what we have look good.

Why not bulldoze Arlington National Cemetery, at the same time? Surely the land could be a financial bonanza...

Since this is President's Day, why not bulldoze the Lincoln and Washington Memorials, too?

Perhaps a little time studying the history of those Victorian houses will give cause for reconsideration...

[riverat]

Saw a small group of people looking over the Blue Jay site with great interest yesterday

[SteveA]

Originally Posted by GWC...

Why not bulldoze Arlington National Cemetery, at the same time? Surely the land could be a financial bonanza...

Since this is President's Day, why not bulldoze the Lincoln and Washington Memorials, too?

Perhaps a little time studying the history of those Victorian houses will give cause for reconsideration...

The Weirs is a special place.. the less it changes the better.. fix up, clean up, I'm ok with..

Check this out..

http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/...ht=Story+house

The more of the Weirs we save .. the better.. Change isn't always good.. and the "old" isn't always bad.

All IMHO

[Lakegeezer]

The lakes region is short on good paying jobs. What will the region look like in 2010 and 2020? Today, tourism is the primary business. With the baby boomer going into semi-retirement and work-from-home gaining acceptance, the population is changing. A new economy of support services might flourish. Will it?

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by riverat

Saw a small group of people looking over the Blue Jay site with great interest yesterday

While driving west thru Alton on Monday afternoon, we passed the former owners of the Blue Jay heading east on Rt. 11 after 1 pm. They were probably headed home to Mass., and I would assume they had been in town to either clean stuff out of the building or were there to meet with the new owners or realty folks. I'll have to drop them a note and find out what's up. If we had known they'd be in town they could have joined our annual Sandy Point reunion lunch at Johnson's and celebrated the sale of the Blue Jay.