HB25

To whom it may concern, My name is Frank MacConnell, I live in Newport, N.H. and am the chairperson of the Cannon Mountain Advisory Committee. I am in favor of HB 25 for the continue the support of our park system. I am very concerned with the Tram at Cannon. It is on the end of its life cycle and needs to be replaced and I hope everyone will support this bill to help fund the replacement. I know we need to raise more money to meet the bib we received but I know we can. If you have any questions of me, please call 606-491-4118. I am happy to talk more about how important the Cannon Tram is to the state's economy. Thank you Frank MacConnell

Dear Representatives; Recently, the quote "These are the times that try men's souls" popped into my mind. This was about the American Revolution, by Thomas Paine, but I can't help but think it applies to our current times. The country is split, times are uncertain, there is a lot of anger and fear for our future. Any yes, some of this exists above the Notch, but at Cannon Mountain, we concentrate on the good things and try to remain civil to each other. I am a 27 year employee at Cannon Mountain, a bartender at the Cannonball Pub. During the course of those years, I have talked to innumerable people who have loved it forever, are recent converts or first timers visiting. They marvel at how warm and friendly the atmosphere is and how happy everyone there is. We are a bit of sanity in a crazy world, a throwback to kinder times. To know Cannon Mountain is to love it! I'm constantly taking pictures of newcomers and posting them on our Cannonball Pub website. People love this. They are instantly part of our "family" and want to come back to experience it again. Skier visits are up, summer business is up and fall is probably the busiest season of all. There are tremendous amount of people enjoying the beauty and majesty that is Franconia Notch and Cannon Mountain. This place is sacred and should be considered the crowning glory of the State of New Hampshire. But, we need help! Our infrastructure is aging substantially. With increased customer visits come increased wear and tear on our facilities. The ski lifts must be updated to ensure safety. The lodges are antiquated. We have been lucky enough to acquire a fantastic new General Manager at Cannon. Jace Wirth is young, smart, driven, talented and has a unique family history with the United States Park Service that goes back generations. This job is in his blood, please give him the support he and Cannon deserve! I'm 100 percent positive there are many, many places for the State to spend its budget. Please give the absolute jewel and revenue producer Cannon Mountain its fair share. I truly believe Cannon Mountain and the Franconia State Park are the heart and soul of New Hampshire. It should be treasured and preserved so that people can enjoy it for many years to come, and discover the magic so many of us feel for ourselves. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Donna Whitehill

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