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Issue #28
Littleton, New Hampshire
July 13, 2005
Self-funding community services seeking support
from locals
07/13/2005 - BATH—A
lot has happened in this quiet little town since Charlie Diamond
gained national attention by literally throwing himself in front
of the demolition crane to save the historic Payson Mansion.
Back in November of 2004, Diamond saved a piece of history that no one else
could, by physically placing himself in front of the demolition equipment
and pleading with the crew to stop. His actions bought him enough time to
persuade the owners to give him until the next morning to purchase the magnificent
home of one of the town's leading citizens, which he then did – with
his own money!
Since that time, Diamond has: Formed
the Harriman's Falls Centre and Museum (HFCM) and given it a 99
year lease on the mansion; received the necessary permits from
the Bath Town Board of Selectmen; had the building certified by
two leading engineering firms; arranged to have the building covered
and stabilized, and obtained endorsement of the project by state
officials.
"Part of the reason things are moving
along so quickly, and that state officials like Gov. Lynch and
Executive Councilman Ray Burton, as well as the entire Congressional
Delegation have gotten behind this project, is that is not just
another local project," said Diamond. "The restoration itself will
help bring tourism to Bath and surrounding areas of the North Country,
but it is what we plan to do with the restored structures that
is really exciting!"
The Senior Achievement program will be modeled on the well-known Junior Achievement
programs. Most of the NCLEC clients are North Country residents who are accustomed
to leading active lives. Clients who do not want to sit around every day
playing bridge, and who wish to participate, will be formed into small groups.
These groups will be provided with guidance and advice from volunteers.
The groups will be encouraged to develop ideas for products that they can
produce locally and sold in local outlets and over the Internet. Projects
will be funded by donations from local businesses and individuals. Profits
generated by the projects will be used to repay the donations and fund the
operation of the center.
Thus, the restored structures will
act as living laboratories to develop and house socially responsible,
self-funding, programs that will benefit the community and provide
economic stimulus to the North Country through lowered tax burdens
on the state, county and town level.
But help is needed to get started: a roof on before winter gets here; replacing
critical parts of the structure, and build-out of the Information Center.
And the people and businesses in the North Country can help with contributions
of their time, skills, materials and whatever cash they feel comfortable
giving.
To find out how anyone can help, please call 747-2200.
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