Harriman's Falls Education Centre and Museum Payson Mansion Fund 7 West Bath Road, Bath NH 03740 Phone: 603.747.2200 Cell: 603.490.8321 www.hfecm.org

MEDIA RELEASE

Release Date: July 14, 2005
Contact: Ed Costello
888.824.8880

ewc@hfecm.org

Self-Funding Community Services To Be Located In Historic Buildings

Seeking Support From Local Residents and Businesses

Bath, NH – A lot has been happening in this quiet little town since Charlie Diamond gained national attention by literally throwing himself in front of the demolition crane – Like a scene inspired by “Woodsman Spare That Tree” – to save the historic Payson Mansion.

Back in November of 2004, Mr. 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 towns leading citizens, which he then did – With his own money!

Since that time, Charlie 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.

• Obtained endorsement of the project by State officials.

As Mr. Diamond explained, “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. 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!”

What is going on inside those classic Federal buildings that makes them unique are projects like the North Country Life Enrichment Center (NCLEC). The NCLEC will be a not-for-profit adult community that will offer a ground-braking program known as “Senior Achievement ™.

The Senior Achievement ™ program will be modeled on the well-known Junior Achievement programs. Most of the NCLEC clients are North Country residents that 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 we need help to get started.

• We need to get a roof on before winter gets here.

• We have to replace critical parts of the structure.

• We have to build-out 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 YOU can help, please call 888.824.8880.