Albany Town Column | Welcome to the Albany NH Website!

As promised, a review of June 4th selectmen’s meeting. As reported, Albany Citizens Coming Together presented their case for being exempt from the charge ($75) when using the Town Hall’s large room. The selectmen voted to waive the fees. Much of the meeting was taken up with discussion of the Purchase and Sales Agreement for the proposed road on the Lake property. The selectmen, the Lakes, Ann Croto, Brad Donaldson, Curtis Coleman and attorney Peter Malia read through and made corrections and deletions from the proposal. Nothing was signed at the meeting. Some time was also spent on the Road Construction Contract going over it article by article. Changes were made and it too was tabled until reworded. The work to remove debris from a home on Tabor Circle was approved. The town will be billed and the town will bill the owner. Should he not pay, the town will have the ability to lien his property. Two repairs to town hall were approved: fixing a broken window and the lock on the door. The four-hour meeting was adjourned. At the June 11^th meeting, checks were signed and the minutes of the previous meeting were reviewed and signed. The selectmen reviewed the Liability and Workers’ Compensation policy and discussed the oil and propane budget for the coming year. They also discussed Mary Fanham’s request to purchase cemetery stones for Jewell Cemetery. Steve Knox, Curtis Coleman, the Lakes, Ann Croto and Brad Donaldson were once again on the agenda.

The Albany School Board met on Tuesday. The meeting began at 5:30 pm. In attendance were board members Jamie Sabina, Laurie Ferris, Colleen Cormack, Kim Guptil and Assistant Superintendent Robert Gadomski and Special Education Director Maureen Soregan. Colleen questioned the lack of specificity in the minutes taken at the last meeting and it was decided to look into hiring a professional secretary to take minutes. Previously the minutes were taken by Superintendent Nelson. The vote to accept the minutes was 2-1 with Colleen voting in the negative. The question of purchasing a vehicle to transport special education/primary school children in lieu of using a taxi service was discussed. Colleen presented several documents and ideas and questioned whether the Albany School Board had a contract with Fast Taxi. Maureen said there was one, yet Colleen was told by Superintendent Nelson that there was no contract. The question arose as to whether the School Board or the town should propose the purchase of a vehicle. Laurie was not in favor of a school warrant for this purpose but would like to see the town put it up for purchase and leased to the school. Presently, there is only one student being transported. The proposal was tabled. Asst. Superintendent Gadomski advised the board that the Homeland Security representative would be visiting Conway in August and that the Emergency Management Plan for the schools should be ready by September. Colleen discussed the problem with security in the schoolrooms with regard to locks. Mr. Gadomski said he would take this into advisement. The SAU 9 -2008/9 calendar was adopted. The next meeting of the board will be August 12^th at 6 pm. The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 pm.

The Planning Board met on June 11^th and the agenda included Landon Roach (LCR) and Bill Lake (gravel pit) as well as discussion on the Master Plan.

Representative Carol Shea-Porter will be conduction a Middle Class Forum this morning (11 am) at Kennett High School. Go down and express your opinions on this very timely topic.

June 14-22 is Mountain Motorcycle Rally week in the valley. The event features guided rides and a ride up the Mount Washington Auto Road. For more information check out www.mtwashingtonvalley.org .

There will be a community bike and gear swap at the Moat Mountain Smoke House and Brewing Restaurant on June 14^th . This is sponsored by the Mt. Washington Valley Velo Club, the NE Bike Association and the North Conway Public Library. All proceeds go to support youth cycling in the valley. You can rent a table and sell your own things. The rental charge will support the cause. There is a need for volunteers. For more information, call Cathy Steers at 986-7132.

With the changes in the weather every day, let’s hope for a decent week. Have a good one whatever the skies bring.

At the Selectmen’s meeting on May 28^th, several questions regarding the Road Construction Contract were discussed. It was proposed that Brad Donaldson set in writing that he would prep his portion of the road while Bill Lake was getting his section started. A maintenance gate at the old entrance was also discussed. It was decided that the attorney, Peter Malia, should add this to the agreement. It was further decided that both Ann Croto and Brad Donaldson be invited to attend the June 4^th Selectmen’s Meeting. Carla of Alpine Web was hired to revamp the present Albany Web-site at a cost of $1750 plus $288 per year for hosting it. The question of waiving the $75 room rental fee for ACCT was discussed. It was tabled until the following week when Dan would be present and revised wording for the ordinance on fees would be made. In the meantime, the fee for the use of the room on June 3^rd was waived. The Purchase and Sales Agreement and the Road Construction Contract with Bill Lake was discussed. No agreement could be reached and the matter was put off to the next meeting (June 4^th) when Peter Malia could be in attendance. It was Bob’s view that in all respects the town had to be protected. He stated that if Peter Malia could not attend, then the Selectmen would not take up the matter at that time. It was decided that the complaints of Tabor Circle be dealt with as a health issue. Consequently, the offending garbage will be removed and the owner would be billed by the town for the disposal. The Administrative Assistant was directed to send a letter of warning to the two residents of Golden Oaks where a similar health issue had arisen.

The ACCT meeting on Tuesday began at 6:40 pm. Twenty-two people were in attendance. Steve Knox facilitated the meeting with Laurie Ferris taking minutes. First on the agenda were the articles to be placed on the petition for a special Town Meeting. After discussion it was decided to go with just the two articles: Code of Ethics and Monthly Reporting of Itemized Revenues and Expenditures. Laurie will take care of producing the petition that will be used to collect names and then presented to the Board of Selectmen on Wednesday, June 11^th. The consensus was to ask for an answer regarding the meeting within thirty days. It was further decided that Lance Zack would present the Vote of No Confidence to the Selectmen. Harry Richardson reported that the attorney he had consulted charged $1500 and that the group was short $40. An envelope was distributed to those in attendance to raise the needed money. The election of officers for ACCT was tabled until the “core group” could work up a slate. It was suggested that there be a President, First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, and four At-Large Members. It was further decided to meet once a month. People were asked to e-mail Laurie Ferris with their commitment to attending the weekly Selectmen’s meeting. At the June 4^th selectmen’s meeting it was asked that as many people as possible attend to explain the group’s reasoning for not having to pay ($75) for the use of the room at Town Hall each time they met. Steve Knox discussed the proposed Special Meeting that was passed in March regarding the purchase of land on the Kancamagus Highway. The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 pm.

The Albany Historical Museum opens this month. Its first day is June 25^th from 4-7 pm. Not all dates have been filled and volunteers are requested. Please call Elaine Wales, 447-2806, and work out a schedule with her. For sale at the museum are copies of Albany Recollections by Mrs. Perry, Passaconaway in the White Mountains by Mr. Beals, and The Albany Cook Book. Also available are note cards and maps of the area. These items can be purchased at the Town Hall as well.

There will be a School Board Meeting on Tuesday, June 10^th in the Planning Room at 5:30 pm.

Peter Bearse, Independent candidate for Congress came to introduce himself to the Selectmen on Wednesday, June 4^th.

The American Cancer Society is holding a meeting to discuss its October Strides event. It will be held at the Eastern Slopes Hotel, Legends Room at 5:30 pm on Monday, June 9.

On Tuesday, June 10^th the North Country Transportation group will meet at the Tri-Cap building in Chocorua at 1 pm. All are invited to offer ideas and opinions.

Crystal and Kristina Rowell are home for the summer from New Hampshire Institute of Art.

Where or where is summer? Keep the faith and have a great week.

The Wednesday selectmen’s meeting had a full board and several citizen onlookers. The minutes of May 14 were reviewed and approved. Checks were signed and two building permits approved. Rob Nadler was approved as a voting member of the North Country Council Transportation Committee. A sign permit was approved and a quote on from Alpine Web was reviewed. The board will meet with the representative, Carla. A letter to Les Horn regarding cleanup on his property was signed. Bob also reviewed other health problems that were being addressed in Golden Oaks and Tabor Circle. Jack was asked to deal with a signage problem at DII as he, Bob, could not approach the new owner in as much as it might appear as a conflict of interest. A question regarding the watercourse on the Lake property is still unresolved. Bill Lake will provide selectmen with the original permit that was approved.

Kathy reports that the auditors were at Town Hall for two days. Because they were late coming, their report will most likely also be late.

The Albany Civic Group will meet on Tuesday, May 27^th at 7 pm for its yearly meeting in the Planning Room of Town Hall. The group is open to all Albany women. Its mission is to raise money for the Lora Pierce Johnson Scholarship Fund. This is a good way to get involved with your town. Please join us on Tuesday.

The Concerned Citizens of Albany met on Tuesday at Town Hall. Steve Knox facilitated and Laurie Ferris took the minutes of the meeting. About 27 people attended. Among the items on the agenda was a call for a special town meeting to consider two warrant articles. The first article to be a code of ethics and the second an article to make the monthly receipts and expenditures of the town viewable to the public by posting on the bulletin board outside the office and on the new website for the town. It was understood there was no law to enforce the code of ethics. The vote to hold a special town meeting was approved with the possibility that more articles would be presented. The group also voted to present a recall petition for Bob Mathieu with the full understanding that the petition had no standing in law. An increase in the number of selectmen from three to five was made, but was not voted upon. A new name for the group was selected: ACCT (Albany Citizens Coming Together) and a mission statement was suggested. Steve Knox prompted the group to get involved in their town, though he recognized he was speaking to the choir, and hoped more people would become active. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3 at 6:30 pm.

On Saturday, May 31 from 8 to 9:30 am there will be a pancake breakfast at the Mountain View Nursing Home in Ossipee to which all county residents are invited. Come down and enjoy breakfast with the residents, the staff and other county people. It’s a good way to get to know what’s going on in the county. And it’s FREE!!

Carol and Ed Westervelt were the recipients of the coveted Vaughn Award representing Carroll County. (The State Committee on Aging, to which I am your representative, gives this award yearly.) As it happens, they are the parents of Kathy Ryan and she was there to see them honored. Her parents are on the boards of the Gibson Center, the Race to Beat Cancer, Arts Jubilee, Pequawket Foundation, and the Conway Library and are volunteers at Memorial Hospital. They took a picture with Governor Lynch and Commissioner Toumpas.

Bernadine Dubois visited her daughter, Sheri, in Concord over the past weekend. They attended a concert at the Whitmore Center in Durham and ate lunch and toured the Shaker Village.

Love music? The Mount Washington Valley Community Band meets on Tuesdays at Kennett Middle School Band Room from 7-8:30 pm. They are preparing for their summer concert. If you’d like to participate, you are welcome to join them. They accept any age group and/or level of ability.

The Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall will be at Constitution Park, Route 25 E, Center Ossipee from May 26-28^th. Why not take this opportunity on Veterans Day to visit?

Have a great week and remember to thank a veteran for his/her service.

The Selectmen’s Meeting on Wednesday began with the approval of April 16^th minutes and signing of checks. The selectmen reviewed and signed a letter to the NHDOT regarding the confirmation that Golden Oaks was approved for 50 lots as well as explaining that once a new egress was made, the current one would be closed. Last week a letter of intent was drawn up by Attorney Malia and signed by the selectmen for the Lake driveway permit.

Remember, if you are a senior or disabled and have a low or moderate income, you may be eligible for homeowner’s property tax relief. Call ServiceLink 323-9394 for more information. Someone from ServiceLink will be of help in making out the paperwork on May 9^th from 9-12 pm. If you are a homeowner over 62 and need to make home repairs or modification, call USDA Rural Development (447-3318) to see if you are eligible for the 504 Loan & Grant Program.

The Waldorf School will be holding an Open House from 4-6 pm on Wednesday, April 30^th with the faculty at their facility.

The Conway Library announces that at 6:30 pm on Monday the Mt. Storytellers Guild Meeting would be held. On Tuesday, April 29^th at 7 pm British storyteller Marguerite Osborne presents “Folktales from the Isle” for ages 8-108. Refreshments will be served.

Habitat for Humanity is in need of volunteers on May 10^th. Please call Jill at the Gibson Center 356-3231 if you can help.

The AARP Driver Safety Program will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 6^th and 7^th from 1 to 5 pm at the Ossipee Concerned Citizen Center, 1 Dore Street, Center Ossipee. Bring a friend or spouse and save 50% on the course.

The N.H. Conference of Aging will be held on Thursday, May 29^th at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester. There are buses available to take you there, but you must make reservations early. Call either Jill at the Gibson Center or Kim at ServiceLink to reserve a seat.

Congratulations to Frank and Bonnie Smith on the birth of their grandson Devon Matthew born to Miranda Smith and Ken Martin, Jr. Devon was born on March 7^th and joins Kayla Ann, 20 months.

With the change in weather it’s time to get out and begin to spruce up your property. Be careful out there and have fun. Have a great week!

The selectmen had a special meeting on Monday, April 14 to deal with the issue of the easement/permit through the Lake property. One miscellaneous issue came up first having to do with a health complaint on Wildwood Road. It was determined that a rental property owner had to be informed about a health hazard (accumulation of trash) and he agreed to have it cleaned up by Monday. Jack Rose will check to make sure the trash has been carted away. Several people were at the 9 am meeting on Monday. Most were from the “Concerned Citizens” group. It was determined that a survey was needed before a permit could be applied for. After discussion, the selectmen decided to contact Paul King for an estimate as to the cost of the survey. With regard to the permit, Bob Mathieu asked that Peter Malia, town counsel, create a letter of intent to accompany the amended driveway application. Further discussion ensued regarding whether the Planning Board had any jurisdiction in the building of this road. Bob said that the selectmen would consult with the attorney on this matter. Further remarks about the health and safety of the trailer park were discussed. Bob replied that the selectmen are proceeding cautiously. Additional conversation about amending the street standards concluded with Jack Rose and Steve Knox agreeing it would be beneficial for Curtis Coleman to be included in any further discussion at the Planning Board relative to this matter. With regard to posting of a bond, it was suggested that at this time (in the permitting stage) talk about a bond was irrelevant.

At the Wednesday selectmen’s meeting, they reviewed and approved the minutes of April 9^th and 14^th and signed checks. They also approved the Report of Appropriations that were voted upon as well as the E911 Data Release Agreement.

It is time once again to apply for a Lora Pierce Johnson Scholarship. This money scholarship is open to high school seniors and other adults who are in undergraduate programs. Apply through the Kennett High School Guidance Office.

If you go to the dump and see a sign asking for a renewal on your sticker, just ask for one from the attendant. If you need a sticker (a first time user of the dump) then see Kathy at the selectmen’s office.

On Wednesday, April 23^rd at 11 am the Albany Historical Society will meet at Banners Restaurant for their regular meeting. All are welcome to attend.

The White Mountain Waldorf School has begun construction of their new campus. It is hoped that all classes will relocate to the new facility for the 2008-2009 school year. To date $1.2 million has been contributed toward the development of the new campus. The original school project called for a construction budget of $2.7 million. They are still in need of further funding. Because of the discrepancy in funding, the Board of trustees has decided to install modular buildings to serve the classrooms temporarily as a stepping- stone toward the installation of the permanent campus buildings. On April 20^th the Conway Masonic Lodge will host a pancake breakfast from 8-11 am with all the proceeds going to the White Mountain Waldorf School.

Have you volunteered to help your neighbor by being a Meals on Wheels substitute driver for the Gibson Center? Please call Fran at 356-3231 if you can help.

The Conway Library offers “Low Price, High Nutrition” with Sonia Bowden on Monday, April 21^st from 6-8 pm. You will get practical tips on shopping, recipes, and nutrition that will help your budget and health. On Tuesday, April 24^th at 12:15 pm there will be a book discussion of Peyton Place by Grace Metallious and the Gibson Center. Friday, April 25^th at 5 pm is the deadline for entry into the Poetry Contest. Awards will be presented on May 5^th at 7 pm.

Attention seniors and disabled adult homeowners: Set aside May 21^st at 9 am to visit the Gibson Center where a ServiceLink representative will provide filing assistance for the Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief to eligible homeowners. Call 323-9394 for more information about what documentation you need to bring with you.

The NH State Veterans Council is a state agency that advocates for veterans and their dependents through the Department of Veterans Affairs claims process. Among the services offered is information about the Improved Disability Pension available to veterans or their surviving spouse with low incomes who are permanently and totally disabled or are 65 years of age or older. Eligible veterans must have served at least 90 days of active military service, one day of which was during a period of war. This benefit service is free of charge. You can meet with a representative in Conway at the NH Employment Security Office (WORKS) the second or fourth Monday of the month from 10-2 pm. Call 447-5924 to set up an appointment.

Gordon and Bernadine’s son Robert Brousseau and their grandson Adam visited them recently from Canaan, Vermont. A good time was had by all.

It’s finally spring!!! Get out and enjoy it. Have a great week.

At the selectmen’s meeting on Wednesday, checks were signed and the minutes were approved. Two building permits were approved. There were about 15 citizens who attended the meeting, which included the members new and old of the Planning Board. Among them were the seven new members: Steve Dexter (alternate), Rob Nadler (alternate), Brian Taylor (alternate), Joe Ferris (alternate), Sam Farrington (alternate), as well as Steve Knox, John Newton and Tara Taylor. Also at the meeting were a reporter and cameraman from the Sun. Richard and Bill Lake were in to discuss the first step in proceeding with the easement as voted upon which is the permit from the state. The Selectmen will meet again on Monday, April 14^th at 9 am in the Selectmen’s Office with Curtis Coleman and Peter Malia to get the driveway permit application filled out. The selectmen will give Mr. Lake a letter to show they wish him to go ahead with this permitting once the attorney and Curtis look over the material.

The Albany School Board met on Tuesday and conducted their regular business. After signing the manifest and MS 22 papers, Superintendent Nelson conducted the vote for a new chair. Jamie Sabina was chosen as chair. Laurie Ferris was named vice-chair. Other positions were also chosen: Jamie will represent Albany on the SAU 9 Executive Board, Colleen Cormack (the new member of the board) will be on the Personnel Committee of the SAU Board, and Jamie will be on the Budget Committee. The time and dates for the subsequent meeting have been set for the second Tuesday of every other month at 5:30 pm. Jamie and Laurie approved the minutes of the last meeting. Colleen Cormack asked several questions regarding how to improve the schools Albany supports and was advised to attend the joint board meetings and the SAU 9 board meetings. She was also advised to get on specific committees to bring up her concerns: i.e. technology advisory committee, curriculum assessment committee, PTA committee etc. Superintendent Nelson advised Colleen that an orientation for new board members would take place on April 29^th at 9 am at the new SAU office The superintendent advised the board that the April 17^th SAU Board meeting would be held at 6:30 pm in Albany, and that the Executive Board would meet on April 30^th at 6 pm in the SAU office. He also gave out the SAU 9 Report Card. Laurie brought up the proposal advanced several months ago regarding the purchasing of a van to offset the costs of contracting each year for a taxi to take a handful of children to school. The proposal was passed out to the other members to be reviewed and discussed at the next meeting. The board then went into closed session to discuss a personal matter.

The Conway Library wishes to announce that April is Poetry Month. Enter the 12^th Annual Poetry Contest for all ages…6-106. The deadline for entries is Friday, April 25^th at 5 pm. Pick up the complete rules at the front desk. The Artist of the Month is Larry Markey. Check out his work at the library. The Young Adult Book Group (open to those in grades 6 and up) is reading “Eragon” by Paolini this month. They will meet on April 16 and 30^th at 3:30 pm. On Monday, April 14 at 4:30 pm Tamworth Learning Circles presents a playlet of Tibet. Refreshments will be served and it is free and open to school aged children and adults. On Tuesday, celebrate National Library Week with poet and balladeer John Perrault presenting “Spring Poets: Ballada and Lyrics and Lyrical Ballads.

Attention all Veterans: The State Veterans Council schedules two visits a month (the 2^nd and 4^th Monday) from 10 am to 2 pm at the NH Employment Security Office, 518 White Mountain Highway. Call 447-5924 for an appointment with Ralph Hodgman. It is the mission of the State Veterans Council to assist New Hampshire Veterans and/or their dependents in securing their federal or state veterans benefits or entitlements under the law. Generally this means helping veterans or their family members in filing claims for compensation or pension benefits with the US Department of Veterans Affairs. They also provide information and assistance in a wide variety of ways.

Every time I think the winter is finally over, the weatherman predicts snow of some sort. Let’s hope we’ve seen the last of winter now. Have a great week.

The selectmen reviewed and approved the March 26^th minutes and signed checks at their Wednesday meeting. The March 26^th meeting had three people in attendance besides the selectmen and Kathy, though this week there were no attendees at the meeting. A building permit was signed as well as excavation intent. Richard Wales was appointed Deputy Fire Warden. Terry Miller’s letter to the White Mountain National Forest officials regarding the bridge funding was reviewed as well. He strongly advised that Albany be aided in the cost of the bridge repair to the maximum of 50%. Tara Taylor came before the selectmen to volunteer as a member of the Planning Board. The selectmen are looking for others as well and also for someone to represent Albany on the Valley Vision Board. If you are interested, please call Kathy at 447-6038.

Don’t forget the School Board meeting on Tuesday, April 8^th at 5:30 pm. They meet in the Planning Board room.

April 7^th through April 11^th is County Government Week. Citizens are urged to visit the various county buildings. I have toured the sheriff’s department, the jail, the nursing home and the court in the past. It is really fascinating and I recommend it to others. I am a weekly visitor to the Administration Building where I attend the Commissioner’s meetings. Get to know your government and learn about what goes on there.

Attention all senior citizens. On Monday, April 14^th the Gibson Center will host a Medicare Seminar beginning at 12:30 pm. This is your opportunity to get information on medical and hospital coverage as well as the prescription drug plan offered through Medicare. The lecturer will also explain about supplemental insurance.

The Current Use Board will be holding a public rule hearing on Friday, April 18^th at 1 pm at the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration Training room at 57 Regional Drive, Concord for all those interested in this tax ruling.

Here’s your chance to help. Be a substitute volunteer driver for the Gibson Center’s Meals on Wheels. They are in need of someone to do the Albany/Madison run on a temporary basis. It’s really very rewarding and doesn’t take up very much of your time. Call Fran at 356-3231.

Just got back from visiting the Conway Area Humane Society and leaving them a donation. Their 1000 people donating $100 in 10 days ends on April 11^th. I doubt if they would turn down a donation of any amount. Also, if you care to make a donation and enjoy a good pizza, Flatbreads is holding a benefit for them on April 18^th. A portion of the proceeds from each flatbread sold will be donated to their cause. Enjoy! They do a wonderful job there and could use all the help they can get.

Robert Gordon, the artist whose home and studio is on the Kancamagus Highway will be showing his work at Tin Mountain Nature Learning Center on Bald Hill. He is a member of the Mount Washington Art Association and has won many awards. You can see his work at the Center Monday through Friday.

Do you think it’s possible that this snow may actually recede? As I write this on Thursday, I am aware the weathermen are calling for precipitation tomorrow and Saturday. Let’s hope this once they are wrong. Have a great week.

The selectmen met on Wednesday, signed checks and approved the March 19^th minutes. Also on the agenda was the signing of a selectmen’s deed and approving a building permit. The selectmen also signed a letter to the WMNF asking for financial assistance for the work to be done on the Albany Covered Bridge. There were two appointments scheduled; Mary Willenbrock and Terry Miller.

Please be advised that town roads have been posted. Vehicles of six tons or more are prohibited from using town roads until further notice.

Valley Pride Day is coming. There is a need for someone to chair the event in Albany. If you can do this, please call Kathy at the Town Hall.

Please remember the next school board meeting is Tuesday, April 8^th at 5:30 pm in the Planning Board room at Town Hall.

The moose lottery ends on May 30^th, so if you’re interested, get your application in as soon as possible. The moose hunt starts October 18 and goes through October 26. Go to their website www.HuntNH.com and apply on-line or print out the application and send it in.

Tin Mountain in collaboration with Granite State College presents Dr. William Smith’s “Current Issues in Forestry”. To receive more information about this course, contact Granite State College at the Tech Village…447-3970.

If you’d like to support the Swift River Local Advisory Committee and enjoy a great pizza, join others at Flatbreads in North Conway on Tuesday, April 1^st starting at 4 PM.

Congratulations to Paul Bell on the birth of his new grandchild, Katie Nicole Bell born to Rebecca and Scott Bell of Conway. Katie has three siblings at home: Samantha, Scottie and Haley.

Tom Barbour is home after spending a week at Maine Medical Hospital where he underwent brain surgery. Send a card and wish him well.

Congratulations to Frank and Bonnie Smith on the birth of their new grandchild, Devon Matthew Smith born to Miranda Smith. Devan has a sister, Kayla.

Diane Sweeney’s children, Michael, Matthew, and Sarah, were all home for the Easter break. Sarah has returned to college and Michael has gone to Thailand.

The snow may be melting somewhat here in the valley, but south of us, there is no snow at all. In New York the flowers are already beginning to bloom and people are taking care of lawns. I was there this weekend visiting my sister who has just returned from Tucson. We also went to the auto show at the Javitts Center. Every kind of car and truck was on display…even those not yet in production. Anyone for a Humvee? Saw that there as well.

Have a great week and think summer!

The selectmen meeting on Wednesday began with the signing of checks and approval of the minutes from last week. Regular business was taken care of and then the budget was reviewed for the last time before presentation to the legislative body (you) at Town Meeting on Tuesday, March 11^th. Jack Rose and Steve Knox came in to discuss an ongoing problem confronting the Planning Board. After the discussion, it was decided to hire an engineer to further the work of the board. The cost of the engineer would be passed on to the property owner. Please note the following closures in town: Selectmen’s Office closed on Tuesday, March 11^th (Town Meeting Day), Thursday, March 13^th, Friday, March 14^th, and Monday, March 17^th (vacation time for Kathy). The Town Clerks Office will be open for regular business. A gentle reminder: Town Reports are in and can be picked up at Town Hall. Town Meeting is Tuesday as is the election for town officers. The election will be held from 10 am to 6 pm at Town Hall. The School Board Meeting will begin at 6:30 pm to be followed directly after by the Town Meeting. Everyone is urged to attend. Please be aware of the following RSA that pertains to snow plowing. According to RSA 236:20 you cannot push the snow from your property onto town roads without cleaning up the mess. Should there be an accident because of this violation, the owner of the property and/or the plowman would be responsible for any damages. Ed McKenzie was so impressed with the idea that Albany might purchase the land on the Kankamagus Highway that he has pledged to donate money to this purpose. Thank you Ed for your generous support. AARP will hold its Safety Driver Program on March 18-19 from 12:15 pm to 4:15 pm at the Gibson Center. The cost is $10. Call 356-3231 to make a reservation. There will be an Open Mic Night to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with host Tom Diegoli on March 10^th at 6:30 pm. Musician, singer and songwriter Pat O’Brien will be there for the first hour and the floor opens during the second hour for all local poets, storytellers and acoustic musicians. On Wednesday, March 12^th at 10:30 am NH Public TV presents “Create, Learn, Grow: Children and the Arts” with Heather Mason. This is a free workshop for parents, caregivers and educators. Also on Wednesday, at 3:30 pm the Teen Advisory Board meets. Pizza will be served. Grade 6 and up are welcome. Calvin Hunt has returned home after spending time in Sullivan, Me. with Heidi. Heidi is recovering from a heart attack. This winter has caused great joy for lots of people…school children who got extra days home to enjoy the snow, skiers and snowmobilers and others who love the white stuff. However, some are not so happy with the prolonged winter weather. Just this past week yet another roof collapsed under the weight of the massive snowfall. Coleman’s garage collapsed damaging several vehicles. The cost of snow removal has increased for everyone. Even the town has had to expend extra money to clear its roof and have two pay loaders remove snow from the side of the building to access the emergency backdoor and undo the stress on that side of the building. Easter Sunday is in three weeks but it doesn’t look like it will bring actual “spring”. No Easter bonnets; just fancy ski hats and snow boots will likely be displayed. In the meantime, enjoy the warming weather and let’s hope there is no flooding. Have a great week.

Though there were some flurries on Wednesday, that didn’t stop the selectmen from meeting at their usual hour. The minutes were approved, checks were signed, and a timber cut was reviewed and approved. The town report was proofed for errors and will be available shortly. The major portion of the meeting was taken up with discussions with Steve Knox and Terry Miller (of the Forest Service). A lengthy discussion on the warrant that will appear regarding a special meeting to decide upon a land purchase was conducted. Several important ideas were clarified though the project is still in its early stages. Terry Miller was there to talk about the Forest Service helping to fund the repair of the Albany Covered Bridge. Though nothing was sealed and signed, it is expected that the Forest Service will provide some assistance in the cost of the repair. Please keep in mind that Town Meeting Day is March 11^th and that is not so far away.

Dan Sdankas was not at the meeting because he is sick with pneumonia and we wish him a speedy recovery.

For those who haven’t taken the AARP Safety Program yet, please be advised that it will be given on March 18and 19 at the Gibson Center from 12:15 pm to 4:15 pm for $10. This refresher-driving course is for drivers over the age of 50. For further information or to register, call 356-3231.

Starting March 3 for two weeks there will be two workshops a day offered at Remick Farm to learn about maple sugaring. The sessions cover trees to tap, collecting the sap and making the sugar. The cost per session is $3. To register and for more information call 323-7591.

There is a twelve week Mary Ellen Copland Wellness and Recovery from Depression workshop being offered every Tuesday at the Northern Human Services office in Conway. To sign up for this program or for further information, call Bruce Drouin at 447-2111.

It appears that David Emerson is a regular contributor to the New Hampshire Magazine. This month his article (the last page of the issue) is about growing things. If you can’t find a copy of your own, there is one posted on the bulletin board at Town Hall. Read it for a good laugh.

Congratulations to Kimberly Nadeau on the birth of her new son, Declan Bryce, born on January 21^st.

Don and Trudy Morse of Danville, NH have been staying at the Best Western here while visiting with friends in the area.

I saw Anna Cataldo last week at the monthly Red Hat luncheon. She said her son, who is in the air force, will be promoted to sergeant. He is presently stationed in the Washington, DC area, as he is part of the Air Force One crew. She was also lucky that her other son came up to clear her roof recently. (I think I’ll mention that to my son.)

Earle and Jessie Keddy’s children have been at their cabin on Passaconaway Road digging out the cabin road and getting some of the snow off the roof.

I can’t believe that the weathermen are predicting yet more snow. Even the skiers are crying “uncle”. Enough already! Keep warm and keep safe. Have a great week.

It didn’t snow on Wednesday so the selectmen did meet for their regular session. That was fortunate, as the budget needed to be completed and ready for printing. Town Meeting day is Tuesday, March 11^th. Though most of the meeting was dedicated to the budget, the meeting began as always with the approval of the minutes and the signing of checks. Three pistol permits were signed; a timber cutting intent and two septic designs were also signed. Just a reminder. If your birthday is this month, this is the last week to register your car. The Clerk can help if you have any questions (447-2877). ServiceLink is offering a Medicare Seminar for anyone interested in information about medical and hospital coverage, deductibles, prescription drug plans, supplemental insurance and more. If you are soon to be collecting social security or just want to make sure you understand what is available to you, join others on Wednesday, February 27^th at 6 PM at the Tri-County CAP Building, Route 16, Chocorua. It’s almost spring and April brings income tax day (April 15^th). The Gibson Center will be offering tax assistance on Tuesday and Wednesday until March 19^th. This help is for low and middle-income people, 60 and older. In order to take advantage of this help, please call 356-3231 to register. It is a free service and electronic filing is available. You may also be interested in AARPs free tax help. Call 1-888-227-7669 for further information. Remember, to be eligible for the stimulus package from the government, you must file your taxes. The Gibson Center is looking for volunteers for the carriage shop. They need someone for two hours a week Monday through Friday. The hours of operation are from 10 AM to 2:45 PM. If you can spare some time, call 356-3231. On Monday, February 25^th at 6:30 PM the Mountain storytellers Guild meeting will be held at the Conway Public Library. Come to tell or come to listen and enjoy potluck refreshments. On Tuesday, February 26^th at 7 PM Friends of the Library welcome special guest speaker Larry Garland, professional cartographer and hiker. This is open to the public and free. Wednesday at 10:30 AM it’s “Colorific!: Fun with Colors” time for babies less than 2 years old. Tuesdays at 10:30 AM is for 2 year olds and Thursdays at 10:30 AM for 3 and 4 year olds. No registration is necessary and older siblings and visitors are always welcome. On Wednesday, February 27^th there will be a meeting of the Carroll County Transit group at 9 AM at the CAP building. Final plans will be made for presenting the proposal at Town Meetings across the county. Tonight the Mount Washington Valley Republicans hold their annual Lincoln Day Dinner at Whittier Inn in West Ossipee at 6 PM. Senator Sununu will be the guest speaker. The Carroll County Democrats are holding their regular meeting and special “Thank You Party” for all volunteers who worked for the several campaigns during the primary. Everyone is invited (even if you weren’t a volunteer) and refreshments will be served. State Chair Ray Buckley will be the speaker. Join them at 6:30 PM, Monday, February 25^th at the Old Ossipee Courthouse, Route 171, Ossipee. Steve Hall is working hard at reconstructing the building that burnt a few months ago at Brookwood on Route 16. He is also very busy building a new house on Bald Hill Road. Terry Silva, her son Billy, and her sister-in-law Allyson of Rehoboth, Massachusetts have been spending a few days with Bob and Carol Munroe. Another sign of spring is the Portland Flower Show that arrives on March 6^th. This might be a good time to shake off the winter doldrums and think SPRING! In the meantime, have a great week and be careful on those icy walks.

The snow did it again. Selectmen were forced to cancel their Wednesday meeting, which was to be a budget hearing and reschedule it for Friday, February 15 at 4 PM. The previous Friday meeting of the selectmen dealt primarily with getting the budget ready for the hearing. After the minutes were read and approved and the checks were signed, the selectmen worked on the budget.

Both offices at town hall will be closed on Monday, February 18^th in honor of President’s Day. Please make your plans accordingly.

The School Board meeting did go on as planned last Tuesday. Besides the board members there were some citizens that attended to get a peek at the budget that will be presented at Town Meeting in March. In the audience were Richard Van Dyne, Steve Knox, Colleen Cormack (who is running for the board) and me (Dorothy Solomon). Superintendent Nelson went over the budget and answered questions from those in attendance. Because we have fewer students, and our contract with the Conway Schools is based upon 65% Average Daily Membership/35% Equalized Property Value, our costs have gone down 5%. The estimated 2008 school tax rate per $1000 is projected to be $7.69. (Remember, this is only estimated and does not include the municipal rate.) After the budget was approved the rest of the meeting dealt with regular issues before the board. They voted to join with other schools in a statewide suit regarding the under funding of the State Retirement Fund. Superintendent Nelson announced the opening of the SAU office at the middle school. The number there is 447-8368. The SAU Board will meet in their new facilities on February 28^th. The next Albany School Board Meeting will be on March 11^th (Town Meeting) at 7 PM. The next regular meeting will be April 8^th at 5:30 PM at town hall.

AARP is once again running its very popular Driver Safety Program at the Gibson Center on March 18, 19 from 12:15 PM to 4:15 PM. The fee for the course is $10. For more information about registration, call 356-3231.

The library will be closed on Monday for President’s Day. Wednesday, February 20^th at 3 PM is Teen Scene Movie Day. Come, hang out with your friends, and watch a movie on the library’s big screen TV and enjoy some popcorn too. Also on that day at 4:30 PM there will be a Meeting of the Friends of the Conway Public Library. All are welcome.

I am getting used to this snow by now. I am going to take some pictures of the house and our buried shed and send it along to friends who wanted to know why we chose to retire to New Hampshire and not follow them to Florida. Let them be jealous of our good fortune as they bask in 85-degree weather. Just be careful out there to avoid the snow banks, the falling snow from roofs, and icy paths. Have a great week.

Once checks were signed, the minutes were signed and a driveway

On Wednesday after signing checks and approving the minutes, the selectmen met with Jack Rose of the Planning Board to discuss a problem with a building project. Curtis Coleman came by to discuss work that has to be done on the covered bridge. Then it was back to the budget. The budget hearing will be Wednesday, February 13^th. Please take this opportunity to get a look at the budget before Town Meeting.

A point of information: All petitioned articles must be presented to the selectmen by February 5^th.

Tin Mountain announces the Winter Junior Naturalist Club for students in grades 4-6. The group will meet Saturdays from 10 am – noon starting on February 2^nd and continuing for the next two Saturdays (2/9, 2/16) at the Nature Learning Center on Bald Hill. The youngsters will become wildlife detectives tracking wildlife through the forest, building snow shelters, maintain wood duck boxes and much more.

Remember the other local event at the library where Winter Story Time continues for babies under 2 on Wednesdays at 10:30 am, for 2 year-olds, on Tuesdays at 10:30 am, and for 3 & 4 year-olds on Thursdays at 10:30 am. The program continues through March 6^th. All are free and open to the public.

Do you have a question for Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter? If you do, meet with her representative on Wednesday, February 13 between 4 and 6 pm in the Ham Community Room at the Conway Public Library.

Last Saturday began the annual Dog Sled Races on Lake Chocorua. On that beautiful Saturday morning with the Chocorua Mountain in the background, seventy teams competed over two days. The admission was free with money being made from the sale of food and memorabilia that went to the Tamworth Outing Club.

One of the people who will not be attending our Town Meeting in March is George Morrill. According to his son, Greg, George is now comfortably ensconced at the Burlington Health and Rehabilitation Center where he is doing quite well. Those at the facility all love George and are happy to share his good mood and enjoy his bursting into song at the drop of a hat. If you would like to send him a note, the address is: 300 Pearl Street, Burlington, VT 05401, Room 409.

As I sit at the computer this bright beautiful morning, I am aware the weathermen are predicting yet another snowstorm on Friday. Keep warm, keep safe and enjoy the weather no matter what it may be. Have a great week!

permit approved the rest of the selectmen’s meeting on Wednesday was taken up with the budget to be ready by the first week in February and the March Town Meeting. There will be a selectmen’s meeting next week even though it is the fifth Wednesday of the month to make sure everything is complete.

Speaking of the March meeting, it is time to sign up to run for town offices. The openings for the town are: Selectman (3 year term), Cemetery Trustee (3 year term), Trustee of the Trust Fund (3 year term), and Supervisor of the Checklist (6 years). The openings for the School Board are: School Board Member (3 years), Moderator (1 year), Clerk (1 year), and Treasurer (1 year). Please see Kathy Vizard at Town Hall for an application to apply for one of these posts. The window of opportunity closes on February 1. The cost is a mere $1.

All heads of committees are reminded that their reports for the Town Report must be in by February 1.

In February Bruce Drouin will conduct a twelve-week mental health (Mary Ellen Copeland) workshop program. Bruce is a New Hampshire Bureau of Behavioral Health certified trainer. This program provides an atmosphere that is conducive to a safe environment where one can share feelings and thoughts knowing they are confidential. This program is not only for those diagnosed as mentally ill, but also for anyone interested in the support and hope for them, such as parents and family members. For more information call Bruce Drouin at 447-2111. There is a limit of 25 participants.

Edna Heath is a member of the board of the Alternative Life Center. This group is a peer support center for mentally ill and depressed people offering hope and support to improve wellness and public awareness. The group meets in the building across from the Ham Arena (110 West Main Street).

We wish Jennifer Vizard a speedy recovery from her skiing accident on Tuesday. She fell, received a concussion and was out of school.

It looks like David Emerson is back to his old self. The February issue of New Hampshire Magazine features an essay by David. It’s on the last page of the magazine…Last Laugh. The magazine calls David a “humorist, raconteur and curmudgeon. We just know him as a great guy. And he puts Albany on the map across New Hampshire! I will post the article at Town Hall for those who cannot get a copy for themselves.

The Carroll County Democrats will be meeting Monday, January 28^th, at Runnells Hall in Chocorua with the guest speaker Judge Willard “Bud” Martin, Democratic candidate for State Senate District 3. Judge Martin spent over 30 years as a judge in both Belkap and Carroll Counties and received many civic awards recognizing his support for families and children. He has also served in the New Hampshire House of Representatives. In addition the Dorothy Solomon Award will be presented that evening. (I couldn’t help but put in that plug. Forgive me.) Come at 5:30 pm for a pizza and salad dinner ($10 p/p) or at 7 pm for the meeting.

Don’t let the economic woes get you down. Have a great week and enjoy the outdoors.

The first selectmen’s meeting of 2008 was Wednesday, but the work was the same as before. Checks were signed and a dealer license for Loring Racing was approved. They will be moving into the building that Carpet One vacated. Paul King was in to review the work he did perambulating the Albany/Madison town line. He found some interesting posts from decades ago. One marker had an E on one side, a T on another and a B on the third side. B stood for Barton, Albany’s name before the change. Discussion about the upcoming Town Meeting and the town budget has begun. And, Dan Sdankas is completing the safe room in the clerk’s office. (He is feeling fine after his two back operations.)

CORRECTION: The polls open at 8 am on Tuesday. They will close at 7 pm. Don’t

forget to vote!

It appears that ice conditions are safe to go ice fishing, but be careful. The next few days will bring warming weather that can cause the ice to thin and present problems. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s rule of thumb is a minimum of 8-10 inches of ice for snowmobiles and ATVs. Check the thickness of the ice by chopping a hole and measuring the ice layer. Places where there are currents, inlets, or spring holes may be too thin.

The library program for January starts on Monday at 7 pm with “Exploring Amish Quilts”, the history and handiwork of Mifflin County Quilts with collector Henry Barber.

On Wednesday, January 9^th at 3 pm the Young Adult Book Group will meet and refreshments will be served.

Lots of congratulations are in order. Three new grandchildren arrived before the end of 2007. Robert and Lorraine Davis welcomed Meadow Day Avila on December 7^th. Gregg and Sharon Quint are the proud grandparents of Kameron David Weir born on December 1^st. And Hugar and Junan Heath are grandparents to Vincent Michel Heath Rabideau born on November 26^th.

Bethany Plummer and her children, Jennifer and Andrew, from West Swanzey spent the weekend with Arthur and Mary Leavitt over the holidays.

Carol and Robert Munroe spent Christmas eve with Jeffrey and Michelle Munroe in Rochester, Massachusetts. They spent Christmas day with Robert’s brother and wife, Richard and Pauline Munroe. Christmas is, after all, a time for family.

Shawn and Bonnie Flynn and their two boys, and Aunt Lynn Tolan spent Christmas Eve with Scott and Kathy Vizard and the family. Sandy, Steven and Amanda Vizard come by Christmas day to spend the holiday.

Bernadine Dubois spent the weekend with her daughter and family, Deane and Roger Leroux. They had a wonderful family Christmas.

Over the holiday, our company from New York was treated to a real New Hampshire vacation. I took them to Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm in Tamworth to get a sense of what life was like in a rural community a generation or two back. They have an interesting calendar of events coming up in 2008 starting with a winter carnival and ice harvest on February 9^th. Check it out. We also went to Concord to visit the Planetarium. It was well worth the trip and by using the card we picked up at the library, we saved $26 on the fee for five people. The planetarium is planning a major expansion and I recommend you take the kids and visit it. Go without kids or borrow some if need be. It’s worth it. On their last full day here we took them to the Mount Washington Hotel for lunch and then stopped in to see General Wesley Clark who was speaking at the Met in North Conway. These are purely New Hampshire events and they were thrilled!

Early Monday morning we were awakened by a call from the veterinarian that our wonderful dog, Sir Galahad, had died in the hospital from complications following an operation. We were quite devastated by the news. He will be missed, not only by us, but many people of the valley who delighted in seeing him. In particular, he will be missed by the residents of the nursing homes where he visited to bring them love and joy as a therapy dog. The people who work and are patients at the hospital where he made periodic visits will also miss him. This was not a good ending to 2007 and kept us home for the First Night festivities. It’s very quiet in the house these days. We miss Sir Gal very much.

This is a very exciting time in New Hampshire. Remember that Tuesday is Primary Day. Let’s hope for good weather and a great turnout. Just think, by Wednesday you’ll be able to watch TV without those political commercials! Have a great week.

At Wednesday’s selectmen’s meeting, the minutes of December 12^th were reviewed and checks were signed. A building site plan for the Waldorf School was reviewed and signed. This was the last meeting of 2007 and the selectmen discussed recent problems and the future plans for the town.

Please remember that the offices will be closed early on Monday and closed entirely on Tuesday and Wednesday for the Christmas holiday.

The Presidential Primaries are almost here. For those who need an absentee ballot, they are now available. You can come by the office and pick it up, or you can call and request one by phone.

And, speaking of the Primary, John Edwards will be appearing at Kennett High School, Eagles Way, at 9 AM on Thursday, December 27^th.

Also closed for the holidays is the library. They will close at 1:30 pm on Monday and all day on Tuesday. Regular hours resume on Wednesday. Wednesday, December 26^th the Young Adult Book Group will meet at 3 PM. Refreshments will be served. The library will be closed at 3 PM on Monday, December 31^st. They will also be closed on Tuesday, January 1^st and resume regular hours on Wednesday, January 2^nd.

Dan Sdankas is home recuperating from his second back operation of the month. If all goes well, and it seems likely, he should be completely free of pain. Here’s wishing you a pain free new year Dan! Get well and enjoy the holidays as best you can.

Isn’t it great that two Albanians, Mark Patterson and Ed Alkalay both have columns of advice in the Sun? Don’t forget to check these out on Wednesdays. Mark writes about finances and Ed writes about law.

Amanda Santa Maria, Edna Heath’s granddaughter, is in Costa Rica working with children and having a great time. She is a volunteer spending two weeks of her Christmas vacation there.

Mona Hall is working in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts as an assistant manager for CVS.

This is time for holiday visitors. Diane Sweeney is expecting her family. My son Jay, his wife Melissa, and our grandchildren Amanda, Emily and Rebecca will be up for the weekend. The day they leave, our cousins from New York are arriving.

Check out the lovely Christmas decorations on homes in Albany. They really “light” up the neighborhoods.

This years New Year’s celebration will begin on Monday, December 31^st at 2 PM and continue to midnight. The festival button is your ticket to the festivities and you can purchase one for $5 at banks and many businesses in the valley. There will be presentations, a bonfire, a New Year Parade and fireworks that begin at 7:30 PM in North Conway. The afternoon will be filled with workshops and storytelling.

It is definitely going to be a white Christmas this year. What a difference a year makes. Have a great Christmas and be careful out there.

The selectmen met on Wednesday and conducted regular business by approving the minutes of November 28^th and signing checks. Steve Knox came by to further discuss plans for the possible acquisition of land for Albany. He also expressed his desire to become a member of the Planning Board and that was quickly accepted by the selectmen.

The Selectmen’s Office will be closed on Friday, December 14^th, as Kathy will be attending a training session in Concord.

The Supervisors of the Checklist will meet on December 29^th from 11-11:30 AM for the last opportunity for unregistered Albany citizens to file before the January 8^th primary election. However, remember that there is same day registration at the voting place should you not be able to make this date. Also, one cannot change registration at this juncture. At the January voting day, please take time to consider signing a petition for a warrant article to “see if the Town of Albany will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $3,000 to support Carroll County Transit’s Capital Purchase Expense”. This is for the purchase of vehicles to be used for Carroll County Transit’s routes. For further information regarding this project, the public is invited to attend the meeting being held on Tuesday, December 11 beginning at 10 AM at the Tri-Cap building in Chocorua.

Interested in finding ways to “Green” your home? Join Tin Mountain’s Adult Nature Course, Introduction to Green Design, this morning from 9 AM to 2 PM at their Bald Hill center. On Thursday, December 13^th, in the Coleman Great Room, from noon to 1 PM, the timely topic of “Sewage Sludge as a Resource” will be the discussion at the brown bag lunch session being conducted by Ned Beecher of the North East Biosolids and Residuals Association. This event is free and open to the public. Next Saturday, December 15^th from 9 AM to 4 PM, Tin Mountain continues its Adult Nature Course with “Mammals of New Hampshire”. The cost for the course is $30 for members and $40 for non-members. On December 16^th there will be a tree hunting adventure with Tin Mountain. Meet at Sherman’s Farm Stand in East Conway at 12:30 PM for a field trip into the forest. The cost is $15. Dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear. Call 447-6991 for further information about any of Tin Mountain’s events.

The Carroll County Delegation will hold a public hearing on Monday, December 10^th at 9 AM in the Delegation Conference Room of the Carroll County Administration Building, Route 171, Ossipee, for the purpose of going over the proposed 2008 County Budget.

Also on Monday evening from 6:30-8:30 PM at the Conway Public Library there will be an “Open Mike Night” with poet K. Spirito. All are welcome to attend. On Wednesday, December 12^th from noon to 3 PM the Young Adult Book Group gathers to discuss “Secrets of Rundoon”. At 7 PM Mountain Top Music presents a Christmas Concert. Both events offer refreshments and are open to all.

Steve Knox reports that the family is well and that Josh is teaching Latin at Essex Junction High School in Vermont. He also said that Sara would be interviewing Senator Clinton this week and that he and Sara met with Senator McCain recently at the Balsams Hotel. What a wonderful opportunity New Hampshire’s “First in the Nation Primary” status gives the ordinary citizen of this state!

Condolences are sent to the entire Vizard family on the death of their father and grandfather, Robert Stephen, on December 2^nd in Naples, Florida.

Dan Sdankus is recovering from the first of two surgeries. We wish him a speedy recovery and the hope that this and the next surgery planned shortly will correct all the pain that he is undergoing.

With all the snow that we have had already, volunteers from snowmobile clubs are spending time and hard work maintaining the trails. Many landowners give permission to the clubs to cross their property, provided a “posted open” sign is there. If there is no sign up, riders need written permission from the landowner. A safety course to educate and certify children twelve years and older is being provided at no charge at Samantha’s Inn on Route 16 in Tamworth today, December 8^th, from 9 AM to 4 PM (with lunch provided). Call 742-5761.

If the rest of the winter continues in this fashion (snowy), skiers and snow enthusiasts should have a ball! Take care on the roads though. Have a great week!

The selectmen did meet on Wednesday and the meeting was packed with work. After signing checks, reviewing and signing off on the minutes of the previous meeting, and approving a timber cut, the selectmen met with three town’s people. One came in to deal with a lien problem, another for welfare assistance and Curtis Coleman to discuss roadwork. The work done during the spring and summer having been completed, discussion was held as to what would be done next season. Selectmen and the road agent look forward to continuing the upgrading of local roads.

Thanks to Bob Kilkelly, Albany Town Hall’s lobby now sports a “We Support Our Troops” flag. If you would like a similar flag or an American Flag, get in touch with Bob.

Reminder that the Albany School Board will meet on December 11^th at 5:30 PM. All are welcome and urged to attend.

Governor Richardson’s campaign is coming to Albany. NASCAR enthusiasts might be interested in meeting Bob and Al Unser today at 2 PM at Almost There restaurant on Route 16. The brothers are residents of New Mexico and are touring New Hampshire on their governor’s behalf.

The Arts Council of Tamworth invites you to welcome the season with its presentation of “Gifts: An evening of Storytelling for the Holidays”. Among the presenters will be Andy Davis who will also act as Master of Ceremonies. Check it out at the Barnstormers Theater at 7:30 PM on Saturday, December 8^th.

The White Mountain Waldorf School is undergoing its annual fund appeal. These funds will be used for building a new school, scholarship funding and capital funding. The present plan is to have a new facility on their 75-acre lot in Albany by 2010. This year they begin the development of their middle school. For further information check out their website at www.wmws.org for their current calendar of events. Your contributions are appreciated.

The exhibit of Lucy Gatchell photographs continues at the Tin Mountain Nature Learning Center on Bald Hill Road until December 14^th. Remember that today is the class on making winter greens and wreath making. The cost is $10 for materials and $3 for non-members/$5 for the whole family. On Thursday, December 6^th at 7 PM join the naturalist Emberly Hudak for a nature program on carnivores and their hunting skills especially during the winter months. The public is invited to attend. Call Donna Dolan at 447-6991 for further information.

Along these lines, please be aware that a fisher cat has been sighted on Ridge View Drive and you are advised to keep your small pets inside your home.

David Emerson recently had a freak accident at which he broke his hip and had to be operated upon to receive a new hip. He is currently recuperating at home with the help of visiting nurses. He’d love to hear from you.

Diane Birkbeck has sent a Christmas letter to Mary Leavitt to advise that she has moved to an apartment in Riverside, her hometown and has taken a job at a nursing home as a receptionist.

Condolences to Sandy Stowell on the recent death of her father.

Condolences also to Dorothy Donaldson on the death of her mother Violet Sheppard on November 14^th.

Can you believe its December already? We’ve had three snowfalls so hopefully the ski and snowmobiling season will be good for the community. Take care driving and have a great week.

After signing checks and reviewing the minutes, the selectmen saw several people who came to see them. Richard Lake was in to discuss a boundary adjustment issue, and Mark and Shirley Mills were in to talk about their assessment. In each case they satisfied that their problem had been cleared up. Beverly Raymond of Tri-County CAP, Inc. came in to advise the selectmen of the transportation program that is being developed for Carroll County. She laid out the plan and discussed the benefits for Albany residents as well as the rest of the county. She will be attending the March Town Meeting to speak to the public about the program and ask for their support. More than likely, a petition will be presented for signatures during the upcoming Presidential Primary.

Now that you have received your tax bill for the year, please remember that the last day for payment is December 7^th after which a 12% charge will be added.

Check out “A Deeper Look” a collection of close-up photographs by Lucy Gatchell that is on exhibit at the Tin Mountain Nature Learning Center on Bald Hill Road until December 14^th.

The Morning Book Group gathers at 10:15 am at the Conway Library to discuss Testimony of an Irish Slave Girl by McCafferty. All welcome for coffee and conversation. On the same day, at 6:30 pm author Lesa Day of How to Get Your Child to Say, “Yes!”, “I Can!”, and “I Will!” will visit to talk about her recently published book about motivating your child and encouraging good character development. The library will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday and Friday, November 22 and 23^rd. They will reopen on Saturday at the usual time.

The Albany Historical Society held its last meeting for the season on November 14^th at Banners. Six members were present. At the meeting Elaine Wales was re-elected president, Ann Croto was re-elected treasurer, and Mary Leavitt was re-elected secretary.

The MountainEar last week ran a nice article about Ed McKenzie and his World War II adventures. It reflected his service as a turret gunner and his life as a prisoner of war at the infamous Stalag 17.

Harold and Dolores Leavitt of Crystal River, Florida visited New Hampshire for a week and spent a few days with Mary and Arthur Leavitt.

Gary and Edna Heath visited with Edna’s two sisters Darlene Jamison and Nat Read for two nights in Mexico, Maine. Amanda Santa Maria, Edna’s granddaughter, is going to Costa Rica for two weeks on December 15 as a volunteer.

Doris Meyer has returned from a trip to Malta with something she hadn’t bargained for…pneumonia. She, in fact, had to spend some time in the hospital in Malta. Here’s wishing her a speedy recovery.

Bruce and Marie Drouin’s daughter, Valerie Rowell, celebrated her birthday this past week. Congratulations Valerie!

Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is on Thursday. Get those turkeys ready or if you’re really lucky, enjoy someone else’s hospitality. In any case, have a great week and good holiday!

The selectmen met on Wednesday and signed checks and the minutes of the last meeting. There was an intent to cut to sign and a septic design as well. After reviewing several other pieces of information the selectmen met with Marcy Lyman, David Houghton and Steve Knox to discuss the 302 acres of land that is for sale. Most of the property is in Albany and a portion of it abuts the Swift River. A group of Albany citizens led by Steve Knox has formed to look into what would best be done with the land from Albany’s perspective.

Both offices, Selectmen and Clerk’s, will be closed on Monday for Veteran’s Day. Please plan ahead.

The library will also be closed Monday for Veteran’s Day but there will be a special program from 6:30 –8:30 PM. It will feature poet Mary Saliba and musical duo Tom Eastman and Karen Coffee for the first hour and then an open mike for the second hour for poets, storytellers and musicians. Refreshments will be served. Entry will be on the East side of the library building only (next to the library lawn). The front door and access to regular library services will not be available.

On Friday, November 16^th Ben Kilham will present, Black bears of New Hampshire at the Tin Mountain Nature Learning Center beginning at 7 PM. Learn about your approximately 5000 neighbors who live in New Hampshire. The program is open to the public and a small donation is appreciated.

Last week, Ed McKenzie, Richard Wales, Al Ruka of Conway and Ed Foley of Madison paid their respects at the funeral of Lee Drew. During WW II Lee was a tail gunner in the Air Force.

This Sunday is Veteran’s Day. Ed McKenzie and Richard Wales will be celebrating Veterans Day along with other area veterans in ceremonies in Conway and Madison.

Someone suggested that this would be an ideal time to visit a veteran in the hospital. If you can’t do that, then do remember to thank a veteran for his/her service. Another way you can show your appreciation would be to sign on as a driver for the DAV. Stan could certainly use some help. Please call him at 447-1199 if you can join him in driving veterans to their doctor appointments.

Moose hunting season is over for the year. Approximately 479 moose were taken and 70% were bulls. Of the 16,779 people who entered the lottery last spring, 675 permits were issued. Applications for the 2008 lottery will be available late in January on the Fish and Game website. A friend of mine, Ray Desmarais of Eaton, was one of the lucky permit holders this year and he bagged a moose in Pittsburg. There will be a lot of venison eaten in the Desmarais house this winter.

Terry Leavitt, Arthur and Mary’s daughter, having left her position as editor for the Carroll County Independent, will thankfully not be leaving our area. She has taken a post with this newspaper, the Conway Daily Sun. Good luck, Terry!

Happy birthday to Bernadine Dubois who celebrated her big day last week and to all others who had a birthday lately.

Though the leaf peepers have left, and the trees are getting bare, that doesn’t mean people are not coming up. Nancy Bolan of Upper Nyack, NY was up at her cottage last week.

The Transportation Committee met on Thursday afternoon to continue discussions about bringing a bus route to Carroll County. Members of the task force will be going out to the selectmen of the various towns in Carroll County to explain the project and look for financial assistance. The next meeting will be Tuesday, December 11 at 10 AM at the Tri-Cap building in Chocorua. The public is invited to attend.

Politics is heating up as we get nearer to the primaries (whenever that may be). On Thursday, Hillary Clinton came to Conway and spoke with a small group of environmentalists at Cranmore and then visited with about 1500 students, teachers and local people at the new Kennett High School gym.

It’s getting cooler and sometimes downright cold, but that’s what living in New Hampshire is all about. Dress warmly and go out and have a great week.

The selectmen’s meeting on Wednesday started with the usual review of the minutes and signing of checks. Several letters were also reviewed and a septic design was approved. Terry Miller of the Forest Service and Steve Knox were in (separately) to speak with the Selectmen regarding land in Albany. Terry understands that new acquisitions of Albany properties by the Forest Service was not in the best interest of the town.

Please be advised that the Selectmen’s Office will be closed on Friday, November 2. And, don’t forget the Annual Turkey Dinner tonight at 5 PM. Come early and bring your appetite.

As we are all aware, fires are devastating events. In light of that, please remember that should you wish to have a controlled fire at your property, you must get a permit from the fire warden. All stipulations in the permit must be met or the permit will be revoked.

On Wednesday, October 31^st at 4 PM there will be a Halloween Costume Parade held at the Conway Public Library’s lawn for all Fall Story Time participants and their families followed by snacks and a story.

Tin Mountain has two programs going this morning. At 8:30 am a follow-up to the successful “Where Did My Driveway Go?” workshop will be conducted. This one is called “Selecting the Right Material for My Gravel Road or Driveway” given by Russ Lanoie. Also today, Tin Mountain adult nature course visits historic Livermore logging town from 9 – 1 pm. The program is led by naturalists Dick Fortin and Dr. Crane. The cost for this event is $20.

Tin Mountain is now the new meeting place for the Contra Dancers. They meet every third Saturday of the month from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Beginners are welcome. There will be live music by local bands. On November 17^th there will be music by Seth Austin and the Mountain Top String Band. The caller will be Eric Rollnick. The cost is $7 per adult and $3 per child under 12. There is a family rate of $15.

You have one more day to participate in this year’s annual moose hunt if you are one of the 675 people who won the permit in the lottery. The odds for winning the lotter were 1 in 18 for residents and 1 in 57 for out- of - staters. Five hundred ninety permits were issued for any moose in the Wildlife Management Units across the state and eighty-five permits were given for antler-less only moose.

The Memorial Hospital has two programs to help the uninsured and low-income women to get their yearly mammograms and related health services. The states’ Breast and Cervical Cancer program through the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center enrolls women so they can receive free screenings and education provided they meet the income eligibility criteria. Uninsured and underinsured women can receive a reduced rate voucher at the White Mountain Community Health Center from physicians and nurse practitioners. For more information call 356-5461 ext 485 or the White Mountain Community Health Center in Conway to enroll.

The lovely colors of fall are leaving us, but there’s still time to enjoy the outside. Have a great week.

The Wednesday selectmen’s meeting followed its regular routine of signing checks and going over the minutes. Once several forms had been reviewed, discussions were held regarding the duties of the health officer in the town. It was also brought to the selectmen’s attention that there are now two openings on the Planning Board. Anyone interested in filling this post should call Kathy at 447-3068.

Kathy will be attending a class for her certification, so the Selectmen’s Office will be closed on Thursday, October 18^th and Friday, October 19^th.

The annual Albany Turkey Dinner to support the Lara Pierce Johnson Scholarship fund will be held on Saturday, October 27^th. People are needed to volunteer for the event and to offer donations. Please call Kathy at 447-3068.

Everyone should have received the annual request for donations to the Civic Groups’ Bakeless Bake Sale. Please respond generously so that the group’s work for the people of the town can continue. You can drop your donations off at the Selectmen’s Office any time that Kathy is open.

Tin Mountain is offering a tour of Wonalancet woodlands today. Meet at the trailhead in Wonalancet at 9 am. Bring your own lunch. A donation of $3 per person and $5 per family is suggested. There is a limit to the number of people that can participate so please call 447-6991 to register. This tour is led by Michael Cline and open to the public.

Sunday at 9 am the annual American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will get underway at Settlers Green’s Staples parking lot. It’s not too late to be a part of the this worthwhile endeavor.

Habitat for Humanity had an open house and lunch at their newest project in Conway off the Kanc on Thursday. The owner of this house, Muriduf (Morrie) Husic, is an immigrant from Bosnia. Morrie came to the U.S. by way of Germany through the auspices of the Lutheran Church. He came to the valley because his sister lived in North Conway at that time. He has been working for SOLO for the past five years. He and his children are looking forward to moving into their house by next year. The local Habitat office is taking applications for the next house to be built in Conway. You must be working and your income needs to be between $25,000 and $45,000 per year to be eligible. Additionally you must be prepared to put in at least 300 hours of work toward the building project. Call 356-3832 for further information.

Bob and Carol Munroe were camping in Barre, Vermont along with friends for several days last week. They visited the Hope Cemetery that had very unusual headstones made of granite. They also visited several old country stores and traveled over a bridge that sits right atop the water.

Bob Mathieu and his son went on a hike of the Mineral Mine Trail off High Street last week. The Waldorf School sponsored the trip. They took along a cold chisel and hammer in order to bring back some mineral samples from the trip. Bob recommends this Forest Service trail which is located in Albany as a great family outing adventure.

Tom and Carinne Troon entertained visitors, who were business acquaintances from Hastings, Minnesota, last week. They all enjoyed a trip up Mount Washington to examine the foliage. This week they are hosting George and Jean Miller as their guests.

Dick and Elaine Wales have returned from another Naval Reunion this time in Branson, Missouri. Not very many attended this year, but they still had a great time. Over the years of attending these reunions, they have made many friends and are delighted to meet up with them at each subsequent reunion. While in Branson they went on a cruise and saw several shows. At one show, a Johnny Cash impersonator was a big hit. They traveled by train to Illinois where some friends picked them up and they spent some time with them before they all drove to the reunion. Although these friends were not navy people they enjoyed themselves anyway. From there the four traveled to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampa, Missouri. It was an amazing 10,000-acre slice of unspoiled Ozarks paradise.

It is said that there are just six degrees of separation between people and that became evident lately when Stan and I met Laurie Ferris’s parents early this month at the JFK Dinner in Grafton County and last week met Daniel Beausejour’s father at the Truman Dinner in Coos County.

It’s damp and chilly but the promise is for a nice weekend. The “peepers” abound and the foliage is beautiful. Get out and enjoy what’s all around us.

““““““““““““““““““““““““““““““““““““““The Wednesday Selectmen’s Meeting began with the approval of the minutes and signing of checks. One building permit was signed and several pieces of correspondence were handled. The selectmen discussed signage for the Kancamagus Highway to ensure the safety of schoolchildren getting on and off the bus. In as much as the road is state owned and maintained, the DOT must be involved in this project and will be contacted to get their permission to put up signs. Michael Cline, Dixie Coleman, Bayard Kennett and David Houton, of the Conservation Fund, came in to discuss with the selectmen the purchase by Tin Mountain through the auspices of the Conservation Fund Land Trust of a parcel owned by the Kennett family. In as much as the property will enhance the conservation projects of Tin Mountain and the property is not suitable for building as it is mostly wetlands, it seemed a good fit and the selectmen went along with the proposal.

Tin Mountain invites everyone to visit them at their interactive display at the Forestry Pavilion of the Fryeburg Fair that begins September 30^th and runs through October 7. The fair is open from 9 am to 9 pm.

On October 7^th from 6-9 pm at Schouler Park there will be a luminary walk to honor those who have battled with breast cancer. Janice Crawford, who runs the local Chamber of Commerce in Conway and is herself a two time breast cancer survivor, is running this walk. Her mother, who recently died, left $5000 to start a fund to make sure that all women, regardless of their ability to pay, could get regular mammograms. For $15 you can purchase a candle and honor someone you know. Get in touch with Janice if you would like to help with this project and walk with us.

The Carroll County Public Transit Service will hold its last open house on October 11^th from 12:30-2:30 pm at the Gibson Center. Join your neighbors and give your input into the proposed bus service for the area.

The Bingo and Scrabble games at the Conway Recreation Center in Center Conway are starting up for the year. Scrabble will be on Monday at 9 am and Bingo on Tuesday at 9 am. If you have any questions, call Edna Heath at 447-5816.

For all you flying fans out there: There will be a pumpkin drop at Sanford, Maine today at 2 pm. This is a fun event where pilots fly their planes down the Kennebunk River and try to hit floating targets with a 5 lb. pumpkin from 250 feet going 100 knots. Sixteen Yaks and CJs are scheduled for the event.

If you have an opinion on an issue that concerns your Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter or your senators John Sununu and Judd Gregg you can get in touch with them at their Washington, DC office without making a toll call. Here is the toll free number: 1-800-828-0498.

Congratulations to Jackalyn Sidoti on the birth of granddaughter, Isabella Rita Lea Sidoti, born to Melissa and Thomas Sidoti of Madison. Isabella joins sister Samantha at home.

Mary and Lance Gerrish have just returned from West Palm Beach, Florida. They were visiting their son, Steven, who is recovering from two heart attacks and had been until Tuesday in intensive care there. Fortunately he is recovering now. We wish him a full speedy recovery.

The trees are really turning and each day the colors improve. We are reaching the peak soon, so get out there and enjoy it while you can. Have a great week.

Town’s commitment to its responsibility of overseeing the cemeteries. The Cemetery Committee wishes to remind all that it is time to remove the old decorations. Those not removed by the end of the month will be discarded.

Jack Rose, chair of the Planning Committee, joined the selectmen as they met with Peter Swiriduk and his NH website design services, (online @ www.HiTechReps.com) to go over the new Albany NH town web site. Please check us out at www.albanynh.org. Health alerts will appear on the home page when necessary. Please check every so often for that. Additionally, you will be able to access information from each of the committees as well as read this column should you miss getting a Saturday newspaper.

Please be advised that the Selectmen’s Office will be closed on Monday, September 17^th. Also, the next School Board Meeting is scheduled for November 13^th at 5:30 pm. Information like this will also be available on the website.

The Historical Society met at Banners for a light luncheon on September 11^th. Ten members were in attendance. There are only two more days that the museum will be open to the public this season: September 19^th and October 3^rd. Shirley Van Dyne has been reading Tom Hurley’s journals and gave a summary of them to the group. Ed McKenzie donated a “receipt book” from the Furncraft in Wonalancet. Elaine Wales shared a letter from Cook Memorial Library about the book, If Walls Could Speak, that they have published about Tamworth. The library is also planning a house tour of old homes in Tamworth.

Tin Mountain continues its programming into the fall. On Thursday, September 20^th at 7 PM join Chris Lewey of RAVEN Interpretive Programs as he covers the basics of identification marks, flight, and behavior of migrating hawks of the Northeast. On Saturday, September 22^nd, between 8 and 11 AM meet at Grant’s in Brownfield to hike to the summit of Peary Mountain to look for varieties of birds of prey and signs of fall with Chris Lewey. Bring binoculars or borrow theirs. Call 447-6991 for further information.

At a recent State Committee on Aging meeting that I attended, several interesting items were on the agenda. First, a program to alert people regarding senior abuse was discussed. Should you know of someone you believe is being abused, or if you have questions about elder abuse or neglect, please call 1-800-949-0470. At the meeting, Joyce Heck of the Senior Companion Program spoke of her group’s work. It appears that the only county that they are not working in is Carroll. This group of volunteers assist seniors in maintaining their health and quality of life at home. The volunteers spend 20 hours a week visiting seniors in their homes. I am hoping to bring this program to our area. Please call me (447-1199) if you have any thoughts about the program; either as a volunteer or a senior looking for friendship.

Congratulations to Jack and Camille Rose on the birth of their 14^th grandchild. Blakely Rose was born to Aaron and Erin Rose on September 7^th in Cummings, Georgia. They have a son Tyler Jackson, age 4. Aaron is one of five Roses scattered across the country in states such as California, Washington, Florida and Georgia. Their eldest grandchild, Sabrina Dunnam, graduated this year from California State University in San Jose with a degree in Radiation Therapy. Their youngest son, Anthony, living in Florida, has recently returned from a month’s vacation to Peru.

Barbara Nickles of Sneada Ferry, NC was visiting her daughter in Nashua and made a surprise trip north to see her dear friend, Maxine McKenzie last week. It’s always a pleasure to get such surprises.

Check out the lovely flowers that LCR is displaying along Route 16. It certainly beautifies the road!

The weather is cooling down and the trees are turning colors. It looks like a beautiful autumn is on the way. Have a great week.

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