Business Owner’s Policies (BOPs)

Presented by Chalmers Insurance Group

800-360-3000

Proudly Representing Patriot Insurance Company

 

Business owners have a lot to consider when choosing insurance that fully protects their business. One coverage option, a business owners policy (BOP), can take the guesswork out of the process. A BOP bundles several types of coverage in one package, similar to the way a homeowners policy works, but is designed for small and midsized businesses.

BOP Key Features

A BOP generally combines the following types of coverage in one convenient bundle:

• Commercial property insurance—Covers losses to property from common perils. It also covers office equipment, furniture, inventory, machinery, raw materials, computers and anything else that is vital to business operations.
• General liability insurance—Covers a company’s legal responsibility for any harm it may cause to others, up to the policy limit. It also covers attorney fees and medical bills for anyone injured by the company.
• Business interruption insurance—Reimburses for loss of income if a covered disaster interferes with the successful operation of the business.

Exclusions

Although a BOP is a convenient insurance option for small to midsized business owners, it does not cover professional liability, auto insurance and workers’ compensation. Workers’ life, health and disability coverage is also excluded. For those exclusions, business owners can purchase separate insurance policies. Other examples include the following:

• Crime coverage—although it is minimal, crime coverage can be added to a BOP to cover losses as a result of crime, such as employee dishonesty and computer fraud. Typical crime coverage ranges between $1,000 and $5,000.
• Data breach coverage—this coverage is commonly added to BOPs to help remedy the following losses resulting from data breaches:

o             Notifying impacted individuals

o             Hiring crisis communication consultants

o             Defense and settlement costs from associated lawsuits

o             Replacement of lost income

o             Extortion and ransom payments

• Errors and omissions (E&O) coverage—Businesses that provide services for a fee can be sued by customers who claim that they were harmed because the business failed to perform its job properly. E&O coverage pays for any judgment for which the insured is found legally liable, up to the policy limit. It also covers legal defense costs.

Ideal Candidates for a BOP

Businesses that have the following characteristics are ideal candidates for a BOP:

• Operate in a physical location, whether home-based or outside the home
• Have assets that can be stolen, including products, cash, furniture and digital property
• Are at a high risk for lawsuits
• Employ less than 100 employees and have less $5 million in sales

The following types of businesses frequently purchase BOPs to protect from losses not covered by general liability insurance:

• Manufacturers
• Religious organizations
• Apartments
• Restaurants
• Technology consultants and solutions providers
• Wholesalers
• Retailers

Eligibility

Small to midsized businesses need to meet specific criteria to be eligible for a BOP. When determining eligibility, insurers consider factors that include the type of business, size of its primary location, class of business and revenue.

Premiums for BOP policies are based on eligibility factors, as well as financial stability, building construction, security features, and fire hazards.

When purchasing business insurance, it is important to obtain the right amount. Contact Chalmers Insurance Group for guidance as to whether a BOP is a logical choice for your business.

Staying In Touch.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce wants to offer hope and support.

We’re sure you have received emails from multiple companies who have outlined their commitment to safety and sanitation and following the CDC’s recommendations. We share those commitments. We want you, as a visitor and as a person, to feel safe and secure in knowing that the valley’s businesses are taking every precaution they can in supporting the mitigation of COVID-19. Read the bottom of this post for updated closures and business responses as recommended by the state as of March 16th, 2020. For COVID-19 updates from the NH Government, click here. 

While it is important to follow all government recommendations, we want to send a special shout-out to the business community of the Mt. Washington Valley. We know our entrepreneurs and employees at the front lines are taking an especially hard hit during this time.

The independently owned restaurants, shops, salons, lodging properties, attractions and more all contribute to what makes the Mt. Washington Valley special. The employees and owners of these establishments all invest in the vibrancy of the valley’s community and provide a certain something that can’t be found anywhere else.

They also rely on the exact opposite of social distancing to keep their businesses afloat. While it’s important to reduce social contact and stay at home, we want to offer these ways to support your favorite small businesses in hopes to help them weather this particular storm.

1. Purchase a gift card to be used at a later date! Have a favorite yoga studio in the Mt. Washington Valley? Purchase a pack of classes to be used when we can mingle again. We’re sure we’re all going to need some help with deep breathing once we get to the other side of this pandemic. What about a salon in the Mt. Washington Valley? Purchase a gift certificate for you and a friend to get your nails done in a few weeks. After all of self-isolation, you may want to catch up with a friend while your feet get rubbed. Purchase store credit at your favorite shop in the Mt. Washington Valley. We’re sure you’ve worked hard at keeping you and your family and your neighbors safe lately, this is a real “treat-yo-self” moment.
2. Shout out and share your favorite spots through your social media channels! Shop as locally online as you can. Give these businesses glowing reviews online. Recommend them to friends and family. Keep your favorite stores top-of-the-mind for when social distancing comes to an end.
3. Order in from your favorite restaurants in the Mt. Washington Valley. If you’ve decided to come up to the valley to take solace in the mountains, grab dinner at your favorite place and bring it home. If you live here, stop by the valley’s many restaurants for takeout for a reprieve from bulk cooking in the wake of this pandemic.

Your safety as guests, business owners and employees of the Mt. Washington Valley and just as fellow humans going through this pandemic is important to us at the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber.

As of March 16th, 2020; all restaurants in New Hampshire, including ones in the Mt. Washington Valley, will be take-out only.

Specific retailers, such as REI, Timberland, Levis, UnderArmour, Nike and Columbia have all closed their stores in the valley, temporarily.

Vail Resorts has made the difficult decision to suspend the operations of all its North American mountain resorts and retail stores through Sunday, March 22, 2020 and will use that time to reassess our approach for the rest of the season.  This includes Attitash Mountain and Wildcat Mountain. 

Black Mountain has ended its season. The Wild Corn Shindig has been cancelled.

Cranmore Mountain Resort has suspended all resort operations beginning March 16 and will evaluate remaining season operations in the next seven days.

King Pine Ski Area and Purity Spring XC and Snowshoe Reserve have ended its seasons.

Great Glen Trails has ended its season.

Bretton Woods has ended its alpine and cross-country seasons.

Shawnee Peak has closed and will continue to reassess the situation to try to re-open due to its great snow cover.

Bear Notch Ski Touring and Jackson Ski Touring Foundation are still open.

Individual businesses are evaluating their need to be open at a consistent rate. Please be sure to search a business directly for up-to-date information on its hours and/or closures during this time.

Photo c/o Wiseguy Photography

Easter in Mt. Washington Valley!

**Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Sununu has issued a “Stay-At-Home-Order, effective starting March 27th at midnight through May 4th. This means all non-essential businesses are required to close until then. This means that the Easter activities outlined below are canceled and the businesses hosting them have temporarily closed. We look forward to when we are on the other side of this and can host you and your family in the valley again. Until then, be safe and be well. We are all in this together.**

Easter is a highlight of April and a great marker that spring is in full swing! We invite you to spend Easter in the Mt. Washington Valley. Enjoy fun, family get-away, crafts, family-centered entertainment, great food and more.

Easter Fun

Hop onto the Bunny Express at the Conway Scenic Railroad. This historic train will take you on a scenic ride down to Conway Village. During your excursion the Easter Bunny will pay a visit to you and your children as it makes its way from aisle to aisle. Rides are happening April 11th and 12th. Consider reserving in advance to secure tickets!

Gather your peeps and celebrate “Easter on the Green” with Settlers Green on April 4th. Sponsored by Lindt Chocolate, Easter on the Green is a family-friendly craft event that includes  paper egg decorating, an Easter Treasure Hunt from store-to-store and a complimentary coloring book for the first 100 kids!

Living Shores Aquarium is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast on April 5th! Start your day with a pancake breakfast with Humpty Dumpty at Living Shore’s restaurant, Pasta Mia. Following breakfast, an Easter Egg Hunt will take place throughout the aquarium as well as a fun craft activity for all ages. All kids 12 and under are welcome to participate. The Easter Egg Hunt will be continuous from 8:30 am – 9:45 am and breakfast time slots are available at 8:00 am, 8:30 am and 9:00 am with limited seating. This is a special event & requires a special ticket. Be sure to reserve yours in advance.

Enjoy a show at M&D at the Eastern Slope Playhouse! Matilda is playing on April 2nd, (along with other show dates through April 11th). This classic Roald Dahl tale is sure to entertain the whole family.  Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so reserve yours now!

While we all can be kids at heart, if you’re looking for a little more adult centered fun or have older kids, the Mt. Washington Valley has a great selection of Easter fun for you too!

Dance your heart out with Motor Booty Affair at Attitash Mountain on April Fourth! Dubbed “The Ultimate Disco Party Band,” Motor Booty Affair’s music is infectious! Playing the most danceable songs of all time, the show is spectacular – from the afros, bell bottoms, platform shoes, polyester and dance moves, to the highest quality sound and light show this side of 1975! Make sure you bring your boogie shoes because no matter how big the dance floor is – it’s always packed from the first song to the last.

Wildcat Tavern is hosting a mini Cold River Radio Show concert! Cold River Radio Show Host Jonathan Sarty invites artists who have previously appeared on The Cold River Radio Show to the intimate setting of the historic Wildcat Inn & Tavern in Jackson, NH for these up close and personal listening dinner concert performances. The next show is April fourth and shows are reservation only. For reservations call 603-383-4245.

As always, the valley’s dining establishments offer exceptional Easter buffets and dinner menu’s. Browse your options here and make a reservation!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter with more vacation ideas and updates!

Frequency, Severity and Your Commercial Auto Insurance Premiums

Presented by Chalmers Insurance Group
800-360-3000
Proudly Representing Patriot Insurance Company

Auto insurance rates are based on several factors, frequency and severity of crashes, auto repair costs, medical and hospital costs, lawsuits and court judgments, insurance fraud, vehicle type, and deductibles.

This means that while your company’s inherent level of risk is a factor that affects the premium you will pay for auto insurance, that amount is also affected by factors that are not directly controlled by the company.

Frequency vs. Severity

Both accident frequency and severity affect the portion of your premium that covers losses.

Frequency refers to how many crashes occur and how often they occur. Logically, the higher the premium, the more insurers pay in claims. Severity, instead, is reflected in the amount paid per claim.

The make and model of your vehicles can also affect your level of risk, and therefore your premiums.

Risk Management Techniques

One of the best things you can do to control your automobile insurance premiums is to implement risk management techniques for controlling the frequency of accidents. Improving your drivers’ performance can make a big difference: A study by the U.S. Department of Transportation revealed that 90 percent of all collisions were due to driver action, attitude and behavior. Making your drivers safer and purchasing dependable vehicles can affect both the frequency and severity of accidents, ultimately lowering your premiums. Some steps to take include the following:

• Select good drivers. Conduct background checks and request regular motor vehicle driving records.
• Provide driver safety training on a regular basis, both at hire and as a refresh, ensuring that both new and seasoned employees are properly prepared.
• Train employees on reporting a loss immediately after a crash.
• Monitor drivers to ensure their best performance.

More Than Your Premium

According to the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) data, the most costly lost-time workers’ compensation injury claims result from motor vehicle crashes.

If you have questions about your commercial automobile insurance coverage, contact the professionals at Chalmers Insurance Group.

 

Maple Syrup in the Mt. Washington Valley!

The great debate over real or imitation maple syrup is happening at breakfast tables around the world. And while this argument of preference may endure for years to come, when it comes to Maple Syrup, the folks of Mt. Washington Valley will enthusiastically agree, we only want the real thing.

Maple Sugaring in the Mt. Washington Valley is a point of pride in our part of New England. Maple Trees are one of the main architects of our fall foliage season in Mt. Washington Valley, gifting us with crimson red leaves. They also provide a free flow of sap in spring, which is then turned into the coveted Maple Syrup we have pledged our allegiance to. We have a lot to be thankful for when it comes to these deciduous trees.

And thankful we are. To show our gratitude, the Mt. Washington Valley offers maple themed activities, events, dining experiences and more to share the authenticity of this New England staple as well as educate the public on what it takes to cultivate Maple Syrup.

Below is a small sampling of maple themed ideas to plan around a getaway in Mt. Washington Valley this March.

Take a self-guided tour the Maple Storybook Trail which begins near the Sugar Shack in the 100 Acre Wood. Located in Intervale, NH, the Sugar Shack opens up to a trail network where you can snow-shoe, walk your dog, go for a peaceful walk or cross-country ski. As you explore the 100 Acre Wood, you’ll see a network of tubes that run between the Maple Trees. The sap that flows from each tree runs back to the sugar shack where it is boiled and processed into Maple Syrup.

Once you make your way back to the entrance of the wood, if there is steam rolling out of the Sugar Shack, step inside for a firsthand look of the historic and innovative process of turning sap into maple syrup. You’ll get to talk to the makers of the syrup and learn anecdotal facts about the love and care that goes into making this liquid gold. Group Educational Tours for all ages during Maple Season are available during mid-week. With a suggested donation of $25 per class/group, proceeds benefit the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation. Reservations for group tours are suggested. Please call 603-356-9980 to schedule.

Learn how to tap your own trees with Remick Farm in its Maple Syrup DIY class! Start out in its Sugarhouse where you will spend the day as a syrup maker’s apprentice. At the end of the day, you will leave with hands-on knowledge of how to produce your own maple syrup and a sample of the syrup you helped produce. In addition, participants will create maple treats while waiting for the sap to boil down. Tree identification, sap collection and storage, boiling and filtering and grading and regulations are all topics that are covered during this workshop. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with the process of making Maple Syrup.

Remick Farm also offers a NH Maple Weekend on March 21st and 22nd. The farm has also introduced a new series called “Young Farmers” which helps you and your child explore the seasons on the Remick farmstead through themed activities. Most lessons include time outside, a craft, and a story. On March 7th, the theme of the “Young Farmers” program is Maple Syrup. Participants will learn about the trees necessary for good maple syrup, learn how it is collected and made by completing a maze and enjoying a craft and story about the sugaring process.

Lodging in the Mt. Washington Valley also goes beyond just providing a comfortable bed to sleep in! They also offer Maple Syrup themed vacation packages! Each lodging property adds its own unique spin on its Maple themed getaways, but one thing is for sure, you’ll get an inside look at how maple syrup is made, a sampling of sweet treats, a special dining experience and more. Click here for a link to Maple Syrup themed vacation packages.

Also be sure to check out the Bed and Breakfasts Inn Mt. Washington, for a complete list of lodging properties participating in March Maple Madness getaways.

A trip to Mt. Washington Valley during maple season isn’t complete without taking some home with you! True New England made maple syrup is such a gift and a unique way to share your trip with loved ones. (But we won’t tell if you decide to keep the goodies all for yourself, either!)

A stop at Zeb’s General Store in North Conway offers the best array of New England made products, including maple syrup, maple candies, beverages, sauces and more! Soyfire Candle offers clean burning candles made with organic ingredients, including a maple scented line! Bavarian Chocolate Haus offers maple sweet treats and you can even watch the chocolatier hand-dip candies when you stop in the store! White Mountain Cupcakery has its own take on a maple themed cupcake and be sure to stop by the Mt. Washington Valley’s cafes for a take on a Maple Latte!

For more vacation ideas in the Mt. Washington Valley, sign up for our newsletter! A monthly e-card that gives you an inside look into what’s going on in the valley when it comes to food, fun, outdoor adventure, family-friendly events, live music and more!

Photo c/o Wiseguy Photography

All aboard the Snow Train at Conway Scenic Railroad

By Isaac Rader
for the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

This is easily one of the best things the Conway Scenic Railroad has ever done. Are you staying in downtown North Conway? Do you love our scenery and skiing?  In that case, the Conway Scenic Railroad has an arrangement that’s perfect for you. They’re running special snow trains from North Conway to Attitash daily through February 29. You can get yourself from your hotel to the train station and take a ride through the snow-covered forests, head onto the mountain, enjoy a day or a few hours of skiing, and take the next train back.

The trains run Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm and Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, departing from the North Conway train station every 90 minutes, so you have plenty of opportunities for a long, happy ski day. Best of all, it’s Attitash, the Red Carpet Ski Area, a very welcoming mountain for new skiers of all ages.

If you’re staying in a condo near Attitash, it works both ways – you can take the train into North Conway from there and enjoy Main Street shopping or dining,  and head back at your leisure. You’ve got plenty of options.

We’ve included this timetable here, just for convenience’s sake:

Depart North Conway | 7:30am | 9am | 10:30am | 12pm | 1:30pm | 3pm | 4:30pm

Depart Attitash | 8:15am | 9:45am | 11:15am | 12:45pm | 2:15pm | 3:45pm | 5:30pm

Enjoy the train, ski safe, and have fun!

Snowmobile Insurance to Ensure Years of Riding Pleasure

Presented by Chalmers Insurance Group
800-360-3000
Proudly Representing Patriot Insurance Company

We can help you cruise through the coverage you need to ensure years of snowmobiling pleasure in the future.

Coverage Basics

A typical snowmobile insurance policy includes the following:

•  Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability (BI/PD): Covers liability for an accident involving injury to other people or property, up to your liability limits. If your limits are 100/300/100, no more than $100,000 would be paid per person for bodily injury, no more than $300,000 would be paid per accident for bodily injury and no more than $100,000 would be paid per accident for property damage.

• Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Policy pays to replace or repair your snowmobile if it is stolen or damaged, regardless of who is at fault. You select and pay a deductible and then the insurance carrier pays the remainder. Collision coverage applies if you hit a nonliving object or other vehicle. This coverage also pays for damages caused by events other than collisions, such as fires, theft or vandalism.

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: If you get into an accident with someone who is uninsured or underinsured and you were not the at-fault party, the policy will pay for your medical treatment.

• Roadside Assistance: Policy covers the labor needed for repairs and towing to the nearest repair facility if your snowmobile is disabled.

• Accessory Covered: Policy covers items that were not originally manufactured on the vehicle, altering the appearance or performance of the snowmobile. This may include trailers, custom modifications, seats/backrests, exhausts, etc.

• Medical Payments

Do I Really Need to Purchase Coverage?

Snowmobiles are primarily used on off-road terrain, over frozen bodies of water and alongside roads. As a result, they generally operate at high speeds and are prone to accidents and theft.

In addition, many snowmobiles are customized, so it is difficult to establish their value after a loss. Contact Chalmers Insurance Group to learn more about your specific risks and how to protect against them.

Count on Us

Snowmobiles can present many hazards to drivers, passengers, other motorists and property. Before the temperatures cool and you get eager to hop on your snowmobile, contact Chalmers Insurance Group at 800-360-3000 to learn more about how you can insure your vehicle and protect yourself and others.

Snowmobile in the Mt. Washington Valley, NH!

We live for the trails in Mt. Washington Valley, NH. Surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest, means there are miles and miles of routes and paths to play on.

When we say miles, we’re not kidding. One of our favorite activities to do on these trails is snowmobiling in the Mt. Washington Valley, where you can ride from Fryeburg, Maine all the way to Canada through NorthEast Snowmobile or ride through Bartlett and Bretton Woods through Northern Extremes Snowmobiling. That’s a combined 2,250 miles of trails, and many more hidden, secret spots along the way!

Experiencing the thrill of cruising down a trail, driving your own snow machine, and having an up-front seat to scenic views is a must on your vacation in the Mt. Washington Valley.

Snowmobiling in the Mt. Washington Valley is a one-of-a-kind adventure and the valley’s premier snowmobiling outfitters offer guided and self-guided tours, pristine trail networks, and top of the line snowmobile rentals and gear. Snowmobiling adventures can be family-friendly, tailored for the adventure seeker, or created for the adventure-seeking family!

For those seeking a full season of snowmobiling consider joining the Mountain Meadow Riders. Fully affiliated with the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association (NHSA), the MMR supports the updating of existing trails and developing new ones to complement the terrain. MMR features great trails for family snowmobiling trips up North.

Northern Extremes Snowmobiling: With the main office in Bartlett, NH

Snowmobiling with Northern Extremes Snowmobiling. Photo c/o Wiseguy Photography

and a location in Bretton Woods, Northern Extremes offers over 250 miles of trails. Choose your adventure, depending on your starting point.

Take on the Bear Notch snowmobile system, starting in Bartlett. One of the most unique trail systems in the White Mountains, this trail network is a 50 mile closed loop system. All trails on the Bear Notch loop are interconnected and almost impossible to get lost on. Trails will take riders over Bear Notch Road where you can stop at one of four scenic overlooks for breathtaking views of Mt Washington and Presidential Range.

Northern Extremes’ Bretton Woods location features 200 miles of trails and starts at the base of Mount Washington at the Bretton Woods Station. Touring this trail system gives you access to what makes snowmobiling in the Mt. Washington Valley so amazing. You’ll have scenic views and look-outs for miles. Riders can enjoy one, two and three-hour rides, which provide scenic stops and panoramic views. The longer you ride, the more incredible landscape you’ll find.

Enjoy self-guided or guided tours along Northern Extreme’s trail system. Tour guides are friendly and offer anecdotes of the area and trail system while providing a safe adventure for you and your family. If you opt for a self-guided tour, staff will make sure you’re fully equipped and oriented with the gear, trail system, and snow machine before you head out.

NorthEast Snowmobile & ATV Rentals: A special gem in the Mt.

NorthEast Snowmobiling offers 2,000 miles of trails.

Washington Valley, NorthEast Snowmobile provides access to 2,000 miles of trails that will take you from Maine to Canada! It offers two locations, one in the south, in Fryeburg, ME and one in the north, in Gorham, NH.

All tours through NorthEast Snowmobile are self-guided. Riders are outfitted and equipped through NorthEast’s experienced staff who set guests up for success. Riders go through an orientation; are given a map with riding instructions; and have the opportunity to rent full snowmobiling gear for only $25.00 to ensure comfort, warmth and safety  for  their ride.

One thing to stress here is that Northeast Snowmobile takes customer satisfaction and customer safety seriously. Before any ride, a guide will help you plan out your route and work with you on the trail with your snowmobile until you feel comfortable operating your machine, leaving no question unanswered. You’ll feel fully prepared to take on your self-guided tour and excited to take the lead once you’ve worked with Northeast’s staff.

As a certified Polaris outfitter, all of Northeast Snowmobiles are new every season, meaning you get to ride on the safest and most technologically advanced machine Polaris has issued. Trails are well-marked and each sled is equipped with a GPS locater. If you do find yourself on a wrong turn, the snowmobile’s GPS systems will remotely pinpoint your location to  Northeast Snowmobile, so you can get you back on track.

Riding Northern Extremes’ and NorthEast Snowmobile’s trail systems gets you up-close-and-personal to nature and gives you access to scenery you have to see to believe! Snowmobiling in the Mt. Washington Valley is an adventure you simply must have while on vacation in the valley! 

 

February Vacation Fun for Kids!

There is no shortage of things to do when it comes to spending February Vacation in the Mt. Washington Valley. Activities are endless and the entertainment never stops. When it comes to creating memories with your kids, there are seven full days of fun this February break.

We’ve compiled just a small taste of some family friendly activities below. For a more in-depth view of the events happening during February vacation in the Mt. Washington Valley, click here.

Great Glen Trails offers a Penguins and Polar Bears Nordic Ski Camp for kids ages 6-11. This program focuses on games and fun while teaching cross country ski basics for kids Feb. 17, 18, and 19.

Plan a day at Knockerball North Conway! Enjoy indoor recreation and play groups. Featuring Busy Bees Play Group for kids 4 and under, activities such as Soccer Dart, Archery Tag and Knocker Ball for kids 48 inches and taller.

Make a stop at the MWV Children’s Museum for exploration, play-time and special programming. The museum features multiple rooms with themes such as outer space, and the jungle, and offers opportunities for learning through play and is open 10:00am – 3:00pm daily.

Living Shores Aquarium, located at Story Land, is an indoor walk through adventure that allows the whole family to discover the wonders of the ocean year round. The aquarium includes over 32,000 sq. ft. of interactive tide pools, exhibits, and immersive activities. See otters, touch sting rays, interact with tropical birds and so much more.

February Vacation Preview and All Weather Ski Tips

By Kathy Bennett, Kathy Bennett Marketing

You know what they say about New England … if you don’t like the weather, wait a minute! This week has been sunny and mild and many a bluebird day has been had on the slopes in and around Mount Washington Valley. Snow is in the forecast this week followed by colder temps that will keep our snowpack squeaky.

This past weekend offered ideal conditions for both downhill and cross country skiing. Wildcat was serving it up both on and off piste – the woods are in fine condition and classic ungroomed trails like Wildcat are in great shape. Sister resort Attitash just reported reaching 100% open, thanks to the hard work of their snowmaking and grooming team.

Those preferring skinny skis will find skate groomed and tracked throughout Jackson Ski Touring, including two newly dedicated trails, The Bengt and Thom’s Reach, named for board member Bengt Karllson and long-time executive director Thom Perkins. Those looking for a bit of ski history may want to view a great talk on Facebook by Perkins on the history of cross country skiing and Jackson’s role in building it from humble beginnings to its impressive standings today.

With so much natural snowfall over the last 10 days (and more in the forecast), truly, it would be hard to make a bad choice for skiing this coming February break. 

To ensure visitors to Mount Washington Valley get the most out of any ski trip, we’d like to share our top tips for getting out there no matter what Mother Nature delivers!

1. No Bad Weather, Just Bad Clothing – Truly, you can ski in anything if you are prepared and wearing the correct clothing. Fleece under layers, waterproof and breathable outer layers, goggles, waterproof gloves or mittens plus a nice windproof helmet and you are good to go. Bonus points for an under-the-helmet doo rag or liner. Don’t forget the hand and toe warmers and bring on the cold and wind! 
2. Chose Resort and Activity Wisely – Chances are, your weekend or ski week will feature a variety of weather … cold, cool, windy, sunny, cloudy. Choose your activity to match. Enjoy resorts like Cranmore, Shawnee Peak and Black on colder days – they are south facing and with lower elevation, less impacted by colder temps. Windy days, head to Bretton Woods, which boasts a handful of lift  windholds over years and years of operation. If snow fell with heavier water content (ie wet) you may find higher elevations at Wildcat and Attitash feature fluffier conditions. Cold and windy? Head for the woods for cross country skiing at Purity Springs Resort, MWV Ski Touring Center or Great Glen Trails. When all else fails, staying in North Conway means you also have plenty of indoor fun nearby, like Mystery NH, Knockerball, bowling or the movie theater.
3. Don’t Fear the ‘R” Word – While no rain is in the forecast as we speak, do not let a little rain ruin your plans for skiing. A waterproof outer layer, or heck, a garbage bag with cut outs for arms and a head, will keep things dry. Also the expression “hero snow” was made for rainy days on the slopes. Base depths are at their maximum right now – snow surfaces are awesome!
4. Sun and Snow – Mid-February is when the angle of the sun is reaching higher in the sky and spring skiing is just around the corner. While goggle tans are great fun, taking sun precautions isn’t a bad idea, especially for the kids and those who are fair complected. Most ski shops sell sunscreen or load up at area shops and pharmacies.
5. Take a Lesson – Anyone who has worked in the ticket office of a ski area in New England has heard it … “There’s too much snow! I don’t know how to ski in it!” New snowfall can be fun but challenging especially for newbies or those with creaky knees. There is a special technique to skiing in powder and deep snow. If you are lucky enough to land here on a powder day, consider taking a ski lesson and you’ll master the mountain!

This February is looking to be epic for skiing in Mount Washington Valley. Book your lodging and plan on making turns with us!

Valentine’s Day in the Mt. Washington Valley, NH!

Valentine’s Day in the Mt. Washington Valley can be exactly what you want it to be! Spend time in the outdoors; stay in for a spa treatment; enjoy a delicious meal out; dance the night the night away; include the kids or don’t; make it a group thing or a couples only holiday. Whatever your preference is for spending Valentine’s Day in the Mt. Washington Valley, there’s a fun activity waiting for you.

Consider booking a couples massage or relaxing spa treatment in the valley’s premier spas or spend a romantic weekend at one of the valley’s boutique inns. Dine out in the valley and make dinner reservations for an evening of creative cuisine at Table and Tonic or White Mountain Cider Company or Thompson House Eatery or swing by Delaney’s, Shannon Door Pub, Moat Mountain Smokehouse for a beer and fun night in a relaxed atmosphere.

Below we’ve listed some fun events and unique activities happening on the weekend of February 14th – 16th. Make a plan to spend Valentine’s Day in the Mt. Washington Valley and blow this year’s holiday weekend out of the water!

photo c/o Tuckerman Brewing Company.

Grab your partner and play a round of Corn Hole, listen to some live music and enjoy handcrafted beer at Tuckerman Brewing Company! Every Thursday Tuckerman’s hosts a Corn Hole tournament and on Friday, February 14th they’re welcoming “Crush: A Dave Matthews Tribute Band” to the brewery!

Summit Mount Washington through Mount Washington Observatory Day Trip! Take a snowcat ride to New England’s highest peak and home to the world’s worst weather! Take in legendary scenery and get up-close and personal to the Observatory’s famous mountaintop weather station through a guided tour.  Meet the scientists living and working in this remote outpost and enjoy a hearty, homemade lunch. You’ll be back before nightfall and this Mount Washington Observatory Day Trip will be a totally new and exciting way to spend Valentine’s Day!

photo c/o Wildcat Mountain

Ski all day and then gather at the base of Wildcat Mountain for a Torchlight parade. Wildcat Ski Patrol and Ski School will journey down the hill just after dusk to form the Torchlight Parade that lights up the night. Enjoy apres-ski snacks and drinks at the tavern in the Wildcat Base Lodge, watch the sun set and take in the amazing scene of torches and skiers making their way down this iconic mountain. This is a great event that brings families and friends together on the ski mountain.

Spend the evening laughing with your partner at the Juston Mckinney show at Believe in Books. With multiple performances on The Tonight Show, his own Comedy Central specials Juston McKinney puts on a great show. Grab a bite to eat before doors open, enjoy some comedy and finish the evening with a nightcap at any of the valley’s local bars. Believe in Books is a great location in a beautiful setting in Intervale, NH.

Photo c/o of Shawnee Peak

Spend a few hours kid-free to reconnect with your partner! Shawnee Peak is hosting a movie night! On February 15th, starting at 5:30, drop the kids off at Shawnee Peak’s Sugar Shack where popcorn, pizza and drinks will be served while they watch the Lion King movie! Either sneak away for an apres-ski beer at Shawnee Peak’s bar and restaurant or make your way into Fryeburg for an upscale dinner at the Oxford House Inn or a great burger and beer at 302 West Smokehouse! Kids must be pre-enrolled for this and spots sell-out so make sure to reserve now!

Are You Prepared if Disaster Strikes?

Presented by Chalmers Insurance Group

800-360-3000

Proudly Representing Patriot Insurance Company

From fires to hurricanes, disaster can strike anytime, anywhere, and often with little to no advance warning. According to the Insurance Information Institute, as many as 40% of businesses forced to suspend operations due to a natural or human-caused disaster never reopen their doors.

Try to imagine the challenges and struggles your business would face in the wake of a natural disaster like Hurricane Katrina or Superstorm Sandy. It’s scary to even consider. Now here’s something even scarier: A relatively minor fire or event that forces you to shut down operations carries many of the same challenges as a disaster on the scale of Katrina or Sandy.

Your commercial property insurance policy would help you rebuild your physical infrastructure, but are you equipped to deal with lost revenue and mounting expenses while you work to restore operations?

Planning for the worst

The difference between surviving a business interruption and going belly-up often hinges on one factor—preparation.

The best way to prevent a disaster from putting the future of your business at risk is to have a proper continuity plan in place.

Business continuity planning involves:

1. Defining potential risks
2. Determining how those risks will affect operations
3. Implementing safeguards and procedures designed to mitigate those risks
4. Testing those procedures to ensure that they work
5. Periodically reviewing the process to make sure that it is up to date

Start the process by establishing a planning team tasked with developing the continuity plan. Typical goals of your plan should include:

• Protecting the safety of employees, visitors, contractors and others at risk from hazards at the facility
• Maintaining customer service by minimizing interruptions or disruptions of business operations
• Protecting facilities, physical assets and electronic information
• Preventing environmental contamination
• Protecting your organization’s brand, image and reputation

The planning process should take an “all hazards” approach. The probability that a specific hazard will impact your business is hard to determine—that’s why it’s important to consider many different threats and hazards and the likelihood they will occur. A business impact analysis can predict the consequences of an interruption and give you a good idea of how your operations would be affected in case you were forced to temporarily close.

Implementing the plan means more than simply exercising the plan during an emergency. It means acting on recommendations made during the hazard analysis, integrating the plan into company operations, training employees and evaluating the plan on an ongoing basis.

It is important to conduct a formal audit of the entire plan at least once a year to help identify any factors that may necessitate changes, such as updated regulations or new hazards.

Let us guide you through the process

No business owner wants to think about what would happen to the business if disaster strikes, but it’s a reality that all business owners must face. Chalmers Insurance Group realizes it can be a daunting task to plan for a major business interruption—but it doesn’t have to be.

We can help you kick-start your planning efforts with a suite of industry-leading business continuity tools and resources, including a sample plan that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your business. We can guide you step by step throughout the planning process, from assessing hazards to implementing safeguards to ensuring your plan stays up to date.