There must be some snow in the forecast.....  When it comes, here is a quick summary of the downhill ski mountains around North Conway!

• Attitash Mountain Resort: Located in Bartlett, NH, Attitash is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels. It features two connected mountains, Attitash and Bear Peak, providing a diverse range of trails and glades. The resort is also popular for its après-ski scene with live music and events.
• Cranmore Mountain Resort: Situated right in North Conway, Cranmore is a convenient and versatile ski destination. It's particularly well-suited for families and beginners, offering a wide range of lessons and programs. In addition to its ski and snowboard trails, Cranmore is also known for its tubing park and mountain coaster.
• Black Mountain: Located in Jackson, NH, Black Mountain is one of the oldest ski areas in New Hampshire. It's revered for its classic New England ski experience, with a mix of natural and groomed trails suitable for all abilities. Black Mountain is particularly popular with families and those who appreciate a more laid-back, traditional skiing atmosphere.
• Wildcat Mountain: This ski area, in Pinkham Notch, is known for having some of the most challenging terrain in the White Mountains, making it a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Wildcat offers breathtaking views of Mount Washington and is praised for its long ski season, often stretching from early November to late April.
• Bretton Woods: Located in Bretton Woods, NH, this is the largest ski area in New Hampshire, offering a vast array of trails and glades. Bretton Woods is renowned for its well-groomed runs, high-speed lifts, and family-friendly environment. The resort also features a top-rated Nordic center for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• King Pine at Purity Spring Resort: Located in Madison, NH, King Pine is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is especially well-suited for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. The resort is part of the Purity Spring Resort, offering a more intimate and relaxed skiing experience. King Pine features well-groomed trails, a tubing park, and a variety of winter activities including ice skating and cross-country skiing. Its smaller size and fewer crowds make it an excellent choice for families or those just learning to ski or snowboard.

Each of these ski areas offers a unique experience, from challenging terrain and panoramic mountain views to family-friendly atmospheres and historic charm. They collectively make the North Conway area a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

The Conway Daily Sun recently posted the Top 10 Stories of 2023.  Here is a summary of the stories chosen by the Sun.  What do you think?  Anything else that should have made the list?

1. Paid Parking Debate: In early 2023, Conway selectmen shelved the controversial paid parking proposal in North Conway Village after significant community backlash and logistical concerns.

2. Property Revaluation and Tax Shifts: A revaluation led to increased taxes for many homeowners and decreased taxes for some commercial properties, causing community unrest due to the significant shift in tax burden.

3. Casino Proposal Controversy: Developers filed a lawsuit against the town after facing challenges in turning a space in the former Shur-fine Plaza into a charitable gaming casino.

4. Extreme Weather Patterns: 2023 experienced unusual weather, including a wet summer affecting foliage and apple crops, and significant precipitation leading to flooding and altered snowfall patterns.

5. Rental Inspection Ordinance: Following a Supreme Court ruling, Conway selectmen faced resistance while implementing a new program for licensing and inspecting all rental properties.

6. School Closure and Realignment: Discussions on closing one of Conway's elementary schools and moving sixth grade to Kennett Middle School intensified due to declining enrollment and budget cuts.

7. Market Basket Opens: After delays and anticipation, Market Basket finally opened in October at Settlers Green, bringing a new grocery option to the area.

8. Kennett High’s 100th Anniversary: Kennett High School celebrated its 100th anniversary with a range of events, including a large parade and various festivities, highlighting strong community spirit.

9. Transitions and Retirements in SAU 9: Several key educational and administrative figures in SAU 9, including the Superintendent, announced retirements or transitions, marking a significant change in local leadership.

10. Sign Ordinance Disputes: Legal battles emerged over Conway's sign ordinance, particularly involving Leavitt’s Country Bakery and Settlers Green, leading to ongoing court cases and community debate.

In a heartwarming celebration attended by nearly 100 people, the MWV (Mount Washington Valley) Trails Association's North Conway Rec Path was officially inaugurated at the northern end of the 2.9-mile paved recreational route. The event saw the gathering of individuals who had dedicated their efforts to bringing this project to life, including the visionary behind it, 90-year-old retired SAU 9 psychologist Steve Swenson. Swenson, who originally conceived the idea over two decades ago, expressed his joy at seeing the project come to fruition, highlighting the teamwork and dedication of everyone involved.

The project, with a total cost of $3.6 million, received funding from various sources, including the New Hampshire Community Development Tax Authority ($240,000), the Connie Davis Watson Foundation ($300,000), the Ham Foundation ($300,000), the Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation ($200,000), The Berry Companies River Run ($100,000), and thousands of dollars from businesses, individuals, and fundraising events such as the "Rock the Rec" concerts and Mountain Meisters' "pay-to-run" fundraisers, held at Cranmore Mountain.

Speakers at the ceremony included capital campaign co-chairs Ted and Sharon Wroblewski, who praised the project's significance. Conway Selectman John Colbath represented board chair Mary Carey Seavey and the board, expressing his support for this community-enhancing endeavor. Ben Wilcox, president and general manager of Cranmore Mountain Resort, highlighted how the Rec Path opens up opportunities for people of all abilities and called Cranmore Mountain Resort "Conway's park."

Furthermore, the Rec Path has three access points: Cranmore, Thompson Road, and Hemlock Lane, making it easily accessible for the community. The path is not only a testament to the community's shared values but also a beautiful and safe space for people to enjoy exercise and scenic beauty. The event showcased how a dedicated community can come together to create a healthy and vibrant space for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.

Conway Introduces Rental Inspection Program for Enhanced Safet

In a proactive move to prioritize the safety Conway, New Hampshire, has launched a comprehensive rental inspection program. The program, initiated after a unanimous 5-0 vote by the Selectmen on August 5th, encompasses both long-term and short-term rental properties, including single-family homes and duplexes. Deputy Town Manager Paul DegliAngli has underlined the urgency for property owners to secure a rental license or initiate the application process by January 1st, highlighting the town's commitment to safety.

Licensing Options

Property owners have been presented with two distinct options, available until December 31st, to meet the program's requirements:

1. **Comprehensive Inspection**: Property owners can choose to complete a detailed form and pay a fee of $375. This choice entails allowing a fire department official to conduct a thorough inspection of the rental property, guided by a 10-point life safety checklist. Successful completion of this inspection results in the issuance of a rental license, valid for an impressive three-year period. Importantly, the form must be notarized for validation.

2. **Self-Affidavit**: Alternatively, owners may opt for a "self-affidavit," affirming that their property adheres to established life safety codes. This option carries a reduced fee of $125 but comes with a shorter validity period of one year.

**First-Movers: Mary and Wayne Bolduc**

Leading the way in embracing the program's safety measures were Mary and Wayne Bolduc, proud residents of Redstone and owners of a duplex on Greenstone Street. Having owned the duplex since 2008, they chose the first option to ensure their property underwent a meticulous inspection. Mary expressed their satisfaction with the process, stating, "We're just happy to know that everything is safe." Their inspection, conducted on August 29th and lasting a mere 10-15 minutes, culminated in the issuance of their rental license on August 30th.

Rental License: Symbol of Safety

The rental license, a certificate embellished with the town seal, stands as tangible proof that the property has successfully passed a life safety inspection, meticulously conducted by local fire departments. This certification grants authorization for rental, and its validity spans an impressive three years. Upon expiration, the license necessitates renewal through re-inspection.

Program Progress and Future Prospects

Nicholas DeVito, the Conway Zoning Officer, expressed his satisfaction with the program's progress, stating that the new life safety inspections program has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. He emphasized the program's growth potential and commitment to further enhancing its effectiveness in the future. DeVito also outlined the inspection process for upcoming assessments, which will involve an inspector from one of the fire precincts and himself.

Safety Criteria

The life safety inspection criteria encompass a range of essential elements, including ensuring that the address number is visible from the street, hard-wired smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, sufficient egress, annual servicing of central heating systems, chimneys and wood stoves compliant with codes, an up-to-code electrical system, an adequate number of fire extinguishers, code-compliant fire pits, and safe grill placement. A detailed checklist is available for reference.

Differing Opinions

It's worth noting that not everyone in the community is entirely aligned with the program. The Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Rentals has voiced concerns, with its president, David Cavanaugh, raising questions about the legality of licensing single-family homes and the physical inspection of such properties.

Program Uptake

As of now, the town has issued a total of three licenses and three affidavits under the program, according to Administrative Assistant Valerie Kollander.

First License Granted

The Bolducs, who received their inaugural license via mail, plan to safeguard it in a filing cabinet. They take pride in being the first to have their rental property inspected and licensed, aptly summarized by Wayne, who remarked, "Pretty cool to be No. 1, wouldn’t you say?"

 

Starting this Friday (9/1), the town of Conway is kicking off a new rental license and inspection program. Basically, if you're renting out your place, you need to get a license for it. They've already got a few folks signing up, and they're aiming to start inspections next week or so.

Here's the deal: if you're a property owner, you've got two options. Option one is filling out a form, paying $375, and having the fire department inspect your rental based on a safety checklist. If you pass, you'll get a three-year rental license. Option two, available till the end of the year, involves a $125 fee and a self-affidavit form confirming your place is up to safety codes.

Starting next year, the self-affidavit option is out, and everyone needs to go through the inspection process. The inspections are about stuff like having working smoke alarms, proper exits, safe heating, and more.

Fire chiefs from different areas will be doing the inspections. There were some folks who didn't quite like this plan during public discussions, worrying it could make the housing crisis worse. But the town officials are aiming for safety without making things harder for renters or landlords.

The whole idea behind this is to make sure rental properties are safe because there have been cases of dangerous situations in rentals elsewhere. The town of Durham has been doing something like this for a while, and they found a bunch of safety issues during inspections.

Got questions? Contact Nicholas DeVito, the Conway Zoning Officer, for more info - (603) 447-3811, ext. 231 or ndevito@conwaynh.org.

Here is a copy of the Self Inspection Checklist

Golf in North Conway, NH

North Conway, New Hampshire is a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels. The town is home to several golf courses, each with its own unique challenges and beauty.

Here are a few of the best golf courses in North Conway:

• North Conway Country Club: This 18-hole course is located in the heart of North Conway Village. It is a challenging course with rolling hills and water hazards.

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  North Conway Country Club golf course in North Conway, NH

• Hale's Location Golf Course: This 9-hole course is located in the town of Hale's Location. It is a scenic course with stunning views of the White Mountains.

  White Mountain Hotel & Resort

  Hale's Location Golf Course in Hale's Location, NH

• Wentworth Golf Club: This 18-hole course is located in the town of Jackson. It is a challenging course with narrow fairways and deep bunkers.

  www.wentworthgolf.com

  Wentworth Golf Club in Jackson, NH

• Eagle Mountain House and Golf Club: This 18-hole course is located in the town of Jackson. It is a challenging course with mountain views.

  Eagle Mountain House

  Eagle Mountain House and Golf Club in Jackson, NH

• Lake Kezar Country Club: This 18-hole course is located in the town of Lovell, Maine. It is a challenging course with water hazards and rolling hills.

  www.lakekezargolf.com

  Lake Kezar Country Club in Lovell, Maine

In addition to these five courses, there are several other golf courses in the area that are worth checking out. No matter what your skill level or experience, you are sure to find a course that you will enjoy in North Conway.

Here are some tips for planning your golf trip to North Conway:

• Book your tee times early: The golf courses in North Conway are popular, so it is important to book your tee times early, especially during the peak season (June-August).
• Bring your own clubs: If you are planning on renting clubs, be sure to do so in advance. The rental shops in North Conway can get busy, especially on weekends.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring sunscreen: The sun can be strong in the mountains, so be sure to bring sunscreen.
• Have fun: North Conway is a beautiful place to play golf. Relax and enjoy the scenery.

Shalimar of India: A Taste of the Indian Subcontinent in North Conway

Shalimar of India is a hidden gem in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving authentic Indian cuisine for over 20 years. The menu features a wide variety of dishes from all over the Indian subcontinent, including tandoori chicken, biryani, and lamb vindaloo.

The food at Shalimar of India is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The spices are used sparingly, so the flavors of the food shine through. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

The service at Shalimar of India is warm and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is also family-friendly, with a separate children's menu.

If you're looking for a delicious and authentic Indian meal, Shalimar of India is the perfect place for you. The restaurant is located in North Conway, New Hampshire, and is open for lunch and dinner.

Here are some of the dishes you can try at Shalimar of India:

• Tandoori chicken: This dish is made with chicken that has been marinated in yogurt and spices, and then cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the spices add a nice heat.

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  Tandoori chicken dish at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

• Biryani: This is a rice dish that is cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is a popular dish in India, and there are many different variations. The biryani at Shalimar of India is made with chicken or lamb, and it is cooked with basmati rice, vegetables, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish.

  Opens in a new windowYelp

  Biryani dish at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

• Lamb vindaloo: This is a spicy dish that is made with lamb, potatoes, and a variety of spices. It is a popular dish in Goa, a state in India. The lamb vindaloo at Shalimar of India is made with tender lamb, and it is cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce.

  Opens in a new windowwww.shalimarofindianh.com

  Lamb vindaloo dish at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

• Vegetarian dishes: Shalimar of India also has a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes include aloo gobi (cauliflower and potato curry), dal makhani (lentils in a creamy sauce), and shahi paneer (cottage cheese in a creamy sauce).

  Opens in a new windowHappyCow

  Vegetarian dishes at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

If you're looking for a delicious and authentic Indian meal, Shalimar of India is the perfect place for you. The restaurant is located in North Conway, New Hampshire, and is open for lunch and dinner.

North Conway in Conway, New Hampshire, is experiencing a significant boom in commercial construction. Despite the town's one-year commercial moratorium on buildings over 50,000 square feet or hotels, which was approved by voters in April, ongoing projects were granted approval before the moratorium was enacted. Projects include the Ridgeline Community development, the construction of a Cambria hotel, a Hilton Garden Inn, a retail complex, and the completion of a Market Basket store. Additionally, plans for a Tractor Supply Co. store, rental housing, and affordable housing projects are in the works.

The construction activity extends beyond North Conway. In Intervale, Ledge View Lodges is building 19 single-family homes, while in Jackson, the Wentworth Inn is undergoing upgrades after being purchased by Atlantic Equity Partners. Attitash Mountain Resort is replacing its summit chair with a high-speed quad for the upcoming season. The town of Conway has seen a significant increase in commercial permits, with construction costs estimated at $19,199,444 this year.

The commercial moratorium was implemented to allow the town's planning board to update the neglected master plan. The goal is to finish this process by January 2024 and subsequently update zoning ordinances. However, the moratorium has affected some projects, such as the planned revamping and expansion of the Yankee Clipper Motor Inn. Local construction experts are amazed by the current level of growth and commercial construction in the area. Residential construction is also expected to catch up, as there are still many residential permit applications being processed.

Despite the moratorium, the construction activity in Conway and the surrounding areas remains robust. The completion of ongoing projects and the approval of new ones will contribute to the town's commercial and residential development.

More details in this story from the Conway Daily Sun

If you're a foodie looking to experience the best of what North Conway has to offer, you'll be pleased to know that the town is home to a diverse range of restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular restaurants in North Conway.

1. Horsefeathers Restaurant: Horsefeathers Restaurant is a family-owned and operated establishment that has been serving the North Conway community for over 30 years. The restaurant is famous for its classic American cuisine, including steaks, burgers, and seafood dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

2. Shalimar of India: Shalimar is one of my absolute favorites.  The food is amazing and everyone in the building is very friendly.  Take out only right now - a great treat!

3. Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co.: Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co. is a popular brewery and smokehouse located in North Conway, offering a range of craft beers, smoked meats, and delicious pub-style cuisine. The brewery is known for its relaxed atmosphere, live music, and outdoor seating, making it a great place to gather with friends and family.

4. White Mountain Cider Company: White Mountain Cider Company is a popular cidery and restaurant located in North Conway, offering a range of artisanal ciders, local beers, and delicious pub-style cuisine. The cidery is known for its relaxed atmosphere, outdoor seating, and live music, making it a great place to relax and unwind with friends and family.

5. Flatbread Company: Flatbread Company is a popular pizzeria located in North Conway, offering a range of hand-crafted pizzas made with fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. The pizzeria is known for its relaxed atmosphere, outdoor seating, and live music, making it a great place to gather with friends and family.

Whether you're a foodie looking to try something new or a local resident looking for a classic, comforting meal, North Conway has something to offer for everyone. So, why not head to North Conway and treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of these popular restaurants today!