This document is the 2018-2019 yearbook for the Granite State Ambassadors program in New Hampshire. It provides information on the board of directors, staff, mission, volunteers, and accomplishments over the past year. Some key details include that there are 332 certified volunteer ambassadors who contributed over 18,000 hours at visitor centers and events. The program aims to provide excellent information to visitors and residents of NH through extensive training of ambassadors.
The Granite State Ambassadors program is dedicated to meeting and exceeding the informational needs of guests and residents of the State of New Hampshire through in-depth training and active participation of our certified Ambassadors.
The Granite State Ambassadors program is dedicated to meeting and exceeding the informational needs of guests and residents of the State of New Hampshire through in-depth training and active participation of our certified Ambassadors.
Preston\'s CORG,Inc has assembled a Housing and Community Reinvestment Festival focused upon the revitalization of the Housing through Education and creation of access. The NW SOUL II SOUL MUSIC FESTIVAL, is slated for August of 2011. It is thought that your company or group may have an interest in taking part in this community economic development opportunity. It creates inclusion for those less fortunate to have presented them social service and community enrichment programs established to meet the need of our failing economy. Let us know of your desire in becoming a media partner or sponsor, today!
Preston\'s CORG,Inc has assembled a Housing and Community Reinvestment Festival focused upon the revitalization of the Housing through Education and creation of access. The NW SOUL II SOUL MUSIC FESTIVAL, is slated for August of 2011. It is thought that your company or group may have an interest in taking part in this community economic development opportunity. It creates inclusion for those less fortunate to have presented them social service and community enrichment programs established to meet the need of our failing economy. Let us know of your desire in becoming a media partner or sponsor, today!
Presentation to UNC Communications Council by
Linda Convissor, Director of Community Relations, UNC
Meg McGurk, Executive Director, Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership
Marlene Barbera, Director of Sales, Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau
Kristen Smith, Vice President for Advocacy & Engagement, Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce
INN Days 2019 Presentation:
Lightning Talks: Because of NewsMatch...!
INN members have been fundraising with NewsMatch since 2016. Hear what organizations that have been participating in the campaign for two or three years have learned and the tips they have for new and returning participants.
In this presentation, Danny Leibrandt explains the impact of AI on SEO and what Google has been doing about it. Learn how to take your SEO game to the next level and win over Google with his new strategy anyone can use. Get actionable steps to rank your name, your business, and your clients on Google - the right way.
Key Takeaways:
1. Real content is king
2. Find ways to show EEAT
3. Repurpose across all platforms
Financial curveballs sent many American families reeling in 2023. Household budgets were squeezed by rising interest rates, surging prices on everyday goods, and a stagnating housing market. Consumers were feeling strapped. That sentiment, however, appears to be waning. The question is, to what extent?
To take the pulse of consumers’ feelings about their financial well-being ahead of a highly anticipated election, ThinkNow conducted a nationally representative quantitative survey. The survey highlights consumers’ hopes and anxieties as we move into 2024. Let's unpack the key findings to gain insights about where we stand.
Core Web Vitals SEO Workshop - improve your performance [pdf]Peter Mead
Core Web Vitals to improve your website performance for better SEO results with CWV.
CWV Topics include:
- Understanding the latest Core Web Vitals including the significance of LCP, INP and CLS + their impact on SEO
- Optimisation techniques from our experts on how to improve your CWV on platforms like WordPress and WP Engine
- The impact of user experience and SEO
It's another new era of digital and marketers are faced with making big bets on their digital strategy. If you are looking at modernizing your tech stack to support your digital evolution, there are a few can't miss (often overlooked) areas that should be part of every conversation. We'll cover setting your vision, avoiding siloes, adding a democratized approach to data strategy, localization, creating critical governance requirements and more. Attendees will walk away with actions they can take into initiatives they are running today and consider for the future.
The digital marketing industry is changing faster than ever and those who don’t adapt with the times are losing market share. Where should marketers be focusing their efforts? What strategies are the experts seeing get the best results? Get up-to-speed with the latest industry insights, trends and predictions for the future in this panel discussion with some leading digital marketing experts.
Mastering Local SEO for Service Businesses in the AI Era is tailored specifically for local service providers like plumbers, dentists, and others seeking to dominate their local search landscape. This session delves into leveraging AI advancements to enhance your online visibility and search rankings through the Content Factory model, designed for creating high-impact, SEO-driven content. Discover the Dollar-a-Day advertising strategy, a cost-effective approach to boost your local SEO efforts and attract more customers with minimal investment. Gain practical insights on optimizing your online presence to meet the specific needs of local service seekers, ensuring your business not only appears but stands out in local searches. This concise, action-oriented workshop is your roadmap to navigating the complexities of digital marketing in the AI age, driving more leads, conversions, and ultimately, success for your local service business.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace AI for Local SEO: Learn to harness the power of AI technologies to optimize your website and content for local search. Understand the pivotal role AI plays in analyzing search trends and consumer behavior, enabling you to tailor your SEO strategies to meet the specific demands of your target local audience. Leverage the Content Factory Model: Discover the step-by-step process of creating SEO-optimized content at scale. This approach ensures a steady stream of high-quality content that engages local customers and boosts your search rankings. Get an action guide on implementing this model, complete with templates and scheduling strategies to maintain a consistent online presence. Maximize ROI with Dollar-a-Day Advertising: Dive into the cost-effective Dollar-a-Day advertising strategy that amplifies your visibility in local searches without breaking the bank. Learn how to strategically allocate your budget across platforms to target potential local customers effectively. The session includes an action guide on setting up, monitoring, and optimizing your ad campaigns to ensure maximum impact with minimal investment.
Mastering Local SEO for Service Businesses in the AI Era is tailored specifically for local service providers like plumbers, dentists, and others seeking to dominate their local search landscape. This session delves into leveraging AI advancements to enhance your online visibility and search rankings through the Content Factory model, designed for creating high-impact, SEO-driven content. Discover the Dollar-a-Day advertising strategy, a cost-effective approach to boost your local SEO efforts and attract more customers with minimal investment. Gain practical insights on optimizing your online presence to meet the specific needs of local service seekers, ensuring your business not only appears but stands out in local searches. This concise, action-oriented workshop is your roadmap to navigating the complexities of digital marketing in the AI age, driving more leads, conversions, and ultimately, success for your local service business.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace AI for Local SEO: Learn to harness the power of AI technologies to optimize your website and content for local search. Understand the pivotal role AI plays in analyzing search trends and consumer behavior, enabling you to tailor your SEO strategies to meet the specific demands of your target local audience. Leverage the Content Factory Model: Discover the step-by-step process of creating SEO-optimized content at scale. This approach ensures a steady stream of high-quality content that engages local customers and boosts your search rankings. Get an action guide on implementing this model, complete with templates and scheduling strategies to maintain a consistent online presence. Maximize ROI with Dollar-a-Day Advertising: Dive into the cost-effective Dollar-a-Day advertising strategy that amplifies your visibility in local searches without breaking the bank. Learn how to strategically allocate your budget across platforms to target potential local customers effectively. The session includes an action guide on setting up, monitoring, and optimizing your ad campaigns to ensure maximum impact with minimal investment.
10 Video Ideas Any Business Can Make RIGHT NOW!
You'll never draw a blank again on what kind of video to make for your business. Go beyond the basic categories and truly reimagine a brand new advanced way to brainstorm video content creation. During this masterclass you'll be challenged to think creatively and outside of the box and view your videos through lenses you may have never thought of previously. It's guaranteed that you'll leave with more than 10 video ideas, but I like to under-promise and over-deliver. Don't miss this session.
Key Takeaways:
How to use the Video Matrix
How to use additional "Lenses"
Where to source original video ideas
Top 3 Ways to Align Sales and Marketing Teams for Rapid GrowthDemandbase
In this session, Demandbase’s Stephanie Quinn, Sr. Director of Integrated and Digital Marketing, Devin Rosenberg, Director of Sales, and Kevin Rooney, Senior Director of Sales Development will share how sales and marketing shapes their day-to-day and what key areas are needed for true alignment.
Short video marketing has sweeped the nation and is the fastest way to build an online brand on social media in 2024. In this session you will learn:- What is short video marketing- Which platforms work best for your business- Content strategies that are on brand for your business- How to sell organically without paying for ads.
Most small businesses struggle to see marketing results. In this session, we will eliminate any confusion about what to do next, solving your marketing problems so your business can thrive. You’ll learn how to create a foundational marketing OS (operating system) based on neuroscience and backed by real-world results. You’ll be taught how to develop deep customer connections, and how to have your CRM dynamically segment and sell at any stage in the customer’s journey. By the end of the session, you’ll remove confusion and chaos and replace it with clarity and confidence for long-term marketing success.
Key Takeaways:
• Uncover the power of a foundational marketing system that dynamically communicates with prospects and customers on autopilot.
• Harness neuroscience and Tribal Alignment to transform your communication strategies, turning potential clients into fans and those fans into loyal customers.
• Discover the art of automated segmentation, pinpointing your most lucrative customers and identifying the optimal moments for successful conversions.
• Streamline your business with a content production plan that eliminates guesswork, wasted time, and money.
Come learn how YOU can Animate and Illuminate the World with Generative AI's Explosive Power. Come sit in the driver's seat and learn to harness this great technology.
First Things First: Building and Effective Marketing Strategy
Too many companies (and marketers) jump straight into activation planning without formalizing a marketing strategy. It may seem tedious, but analyzing the mindset of your targeted audiences and identifying the messaging points most likely to resonate with them is time well spent. That process is also a great opportunity for marketers to collaborate with sales leaders and account managers on a galvanized go-to-market approach. I’ll walk you through the methods and tools we use with our clients to ensure campaign success.
Key Takeaways:
-Recognize the critical role of strategy in marketing
-Learn our approach for building an actionable, effective marketing strategy
-Receive templates and guides for developing a marketing strategy
Influencer marketing isn't just for big brands or consumer products anymore. In 2024, marketers face hurdles like escalating paid channel costs, diminishing organic reach, and building trust in their ideal customer accounts. This session offers practical ways to bring influencer marketing into your organization, to provide cost-effective access to niche audiences, countering budget constraints and rising CPMs. We'll discuss the impact of social algorithms on reach, the trust deficit in traditional advertising and how influencer partnerships offer genuine connections with audiences. Attendees will gain actionable insights to integrate influencer marketing into their strategies, leveraging influencers for impactful campaigns in both B2B and B2C environments. Join us to unlock the potential of influencers in navigating the evolving marketing landscape of 2024 and driving meaningful business growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Educate on the various types of influence we can use as marketers
- Establish the problems that make influencers a priority
- Walk through some practical tactics on HOW to run a program leveraging several of these influence channels
SEO as the Backbone of Digital MarketingFelipe Bazon
In this talk Felipe Bazon will share how him and his team at Hedgehog Digital share our journey of making C-Levels alike, specially CMOS realize that SEO is the backbone of digital marketing by showing how SEO can contribute to brand awareness, reputation and authority and above all how to use SEO to create more robust global marketing strategies.
SMM Cheap - No. 1 SMM panel in the worldsmmpanel567
Boost your social media marketing with our SMM Panel services offering SMM Cheap services! Get cost-effective services for your business and increase followers, likes, and engagement across all social media platforms. Get affordable services perfect for businesses and influencers looking to increase their social proof. See how cheap SMM strategies can help improve your social media presence and be a pro at the social media game.
When most people in the industry talk about online or digital reputation management, what they're really saying is Google search and PPC. And it's usually reactive, left dealing with the aftermath of negative information published somewhere online. That's outdated. It leaves executives, organizations and other high-profile individuals at a high risk of a digital reputation attack that spans channels and tactics. But the tools needed to safeguard against an attack are more cybersecurity-oriented than most marketing and communications professionals can manage. Business leaders Leaders grasp the importance; 83% of executives place reputation in their top five areas of risk, yet only 23% are confident in their ability to address it. To succeed in 2024 and beyond, you need to turn online reputation on its axis and think like an attacker.
Key Takeaways:
- New framework for examining and safeguarding an online reputation
- Tools and techniques to keep you a step ahead
- Practical examples that demonstrate when to act, how to act and how to recover
When most people in the industry talk about online or digital reputation management, what they're really saying is Google search and PPC. And it's usually reactive, left dealing with the aftermath of negative information published somewhere online. That's outdated. It leaves executives, organizations and other high-profile individuals at a high risk of a digital reputation attack that spans channels and tactics. But the tools needed to safeguard against an attack are more cybersecurity-oriented than most marketing and communications professionals can manage. Business leaders Leaders grasp the importance; 83% of executives place reputation in their top five areas of risk, yet only 23% are confident in their ability to address it. To succeed in 2024 and beyond, you need to turn online reputation on its axis and think like an attacker.\
Key Takeaways:
- New framework for examining and safeguarding an online reputation
- Tools and techniques to keep you a step ahead
- Practical examples that demonstrate when to act, how to act and how to recover
Turn Digital Reputation Threats into Offense Tactics - Daniel Lemin
Granite State Ambassador 2019 Yearbook
1. New Hampshire
Granite State Ambassadors
2018-2019 Commemorative Yearbook
Welcoming the
World to
New Hampshire
since 1996
2. Board of Directors 2018-2019
Officers:
Gretchen Ziegler, Chair
Bill Petersen, Vice-Chair / NHGSA Founder
Charlene Courtemanche, Secretary
Sue Geyer, Treasurer
Directors:
Frederic Clausen, Proctor’s Lakehouse Cottages
Kathryn Segreti, 2018 GSA of the Year
Maurice Demers, 2017 GSA of the Year
Susanne Greenbaum, 2016 GSA of the Year
Peter Morgan, NHGSA Founder
Mark Okrant, NH Author, The Laker
Joseph Walker, New England College / NHTI
Judi Window, Morgan Franklin Fellowship,
NHGSA Founder
Part-Time Staff & Contractors
Kelly Bryer, Executive Director
Michelle Demirjian, Chief Financial Officer
Emily Goulet, Volunteer & Events Manager (19)
Naomi Halter, Director of Volunteer Operations (18)
Matt Lavoie, Literature Coordinator
Lorinda Franklin, Data Entry
GSA Mission and Values
Our Mission
The Granite State Ambassadors program is dedicated to
meeting and exceeding the informational needs of guests and
residents of the State of New Hampshire through in-depth
training and active participation of our certified Ambassadors.
Our Core Values
We believe in volunteerism, participation, and cooperation.
We believe in training and demonstrating the essence of
New Hampshire hospitality.
We believe that citizen responsibility and living landscape are
the themes that define this essence.
Citizen Responsibility
A belief that individual citizens can and will take
responsibility for our future.
Living Landscape
A strong attachment to the condition of the state,
including both its natural resources and its built environments.
In short, we believe that New Hampshire will only be a good
place to visit if it continues to be a good place to live. Visitors
will come only if we work proactively to retain our scenic
open spaces, rich historic and cultural attractions, livable
communities, as well as the social structure that values the
individuals and permits them regular opportunities to
pitch in and make a difference.
In Memory of Those Who Passed Away This Past Year:
Desperna “Honey” Stergio
First in the Nation
Class of 1999
Linda Gross
Red Spotted Newt
Class of 1997
Ed Gartland
Franco American
Class of 2007
Pat Bryan
Purple Finch
Class of 1999
Elizabeth Webb Cheney
PSU Ice Arena
Class of 2011
Pearl Martin
Kancamagus
Class of 1998
Georgie Reagan
NH Made
Class of 1997
3. A Message from Our Chair
Gretchen Ziegler, Chair of the Board of Directors
Stonewall Farm Class of 2004
What an exciting year this has been with new programs and activities!! The New Heritage Trail
program started out with our many wonderful Museums to visit. Next year we will have another facet of
the tourism industry to explore. The Staff, DTTD Staff, and our Volunteers put together our new Regional
Resource Guides, and we have been getting rave reviews from those who have started using them in the
Welcome Centers. Many thanks to all who participated in collecting the information and to the group of
GSAs who put the information together into a wonderful usable format.
We thank again our wonderful Partners, the Division of Travel and Tourism Development and the Manchester-Boston Airport.
Without them, we could not provide our many services to our guests and the citizens of New Hampshire.
We want to thank our Board of Directors for their dedicated service, and especially those who have completed their service:
Charlene Courtemanche who has served as Secretary of the Board has taken a job that does not allow her continued
participation. Fred Clausen is selling his family property and looking forward to traveling. And Sue Greenbaum, the
GSA of the Year for 2016 who has contributed a lot to the Board, especially with her thoughtful questions which help us to
better understand what we do.
Our Staff is incredible!! We miss Naomi who has found out that having a second child is very time consuming! Emily has
stepped up from her Intern status to fill the vacancy and has been a tremendous help for Kelly. Michelle continues to support
our organization with financial and administrative affairs--we couldn’t do it without her!! And Kelly--what can I say about
Kelly. I continue to hear rave reviews from our Volunteers and Board members. Her intelligent and creative leadership of this
organization is a privilege to observe, and working with her is a joy.
The tourism industry continues to support our training programs, tours, perks, and we appreciate our many friends in the field.
We look forward to another year of service to the State of New Hampshire and her traveling guests and citizens.
A Message from Our Executive Director
Kelly Bryer, Executive Director
Museum of NH History Class of 2003
It’s been a productive year at New Hampshire Granite State Ambassadors with lots of new partners and
initiatives. Our biggest included the formation of a Strategic Advisory Committee filled with our
industry peers to help guide our organization as we move forward with our growth and strategic
planning.
With the help of our Granite State Ambassadors (GSAs), we reenergized our Education Committee to
develop new, large-scale educational opportunities to keep our volunteers at the top of their
game. The first is the New Hampshire Advanced Travel Counselor Certification which will
take place later in 2019. This will be a full day’s educational program followed by a timed,
and scored exam.
We also developed the Explore NH Passport program, featuring a new ‘trail’ each year for
our volunteers to experience. The 2019 program features the NH Heritage Museum Trail.
With participation from our GSA volunteers and the NH Division of Travel and Tourism’s
welcome center attendants, we created Regional Resource Guides. These guides assist our
volunteers in making quality, authentic referrals to guests from around the state and include
information on historical sites, places to swim, hike, bike, paddle, picnic, etc.
Another part of our planned growth is to provide new volunteer opportunities within
statewide member museums. Our GSA volunteers will now be able to serve as docents,
greeters, and as special event supporters at participating member museums in addition to
being able to volunteer at welcome centers and at tourism related events.
It’s years like this that give me a sense of awe and admiration of our GSA volunteers and
Board of Directors. Never have I met a group of more passionate people who truly love this
state, and want to make our guest’s experience while visiting the very best.
Thank you for being my inspiration!
By The Numbers:
332 GSA certified volunteers served
18,782 hours at our partner visitor
centers and events. GSAs personally
engaged with over 78,000 NH guests
at these visitor centers.
While at The Big E, about 400,000
of the expo’s attendees visit the NH
Building specifically looking for NH
travel brochures and information.
70+ volunteers spend 17 days each
September on behalf of the NH
Division of Travel and Tourism
Development.
233 GSAs participated in our
extensive Learning Opportunities
which included over 30 tours,
gatherings, roundtables, trainings,
and meetings.
4. Morgan Franklin Fellowship
Class of 2019
Daniel Adams
Charles Albee
Lisa Bell
Denise Bowdidge
Lillian Clark
Maria Coviello
Teresa Hollingsworth
Jake Howard
Aidah Kwagala
Nadine Mahoney
Nancy Mayville
Mary McGuire
Alison Mrohs
Lucy Nichols
Ashlynn Patenaude
Barbara Shea
Cecelia Smith
Marilyn Sullivan
Kendra Vanorden
Margaret Waterhouse
Roberta Wells
John Brimson
Christine Buonopane
Kathi Daigle
Donna DeRoma
Margit Eder
Caitlin Farrar
Nicholas Green
Becky Henderson
Sandy Kadlick
Terry Marcille
Jean Mogan
Debra Picard
Ashlee Rowley
Marie Schnick
Phillip Smart
Chelsea Smith
Jennifer Smith
Robert Vachon
GSA Certification Training
The Hotel Concord Class of 2019
5. The Fitzwilliam Inn Class of 2019
Cindy Beaulac
Judith Haven
Christopher Holman
Ortwin Krueger
Larry Lenderman
Doris Maloon
Robert Nash
Leigh Polish
Renee Sangermano
Acute Medical Gas
Aviation Museum of NH
Cathedral of the Pines
CC & D Kitchen Marketplace
Concord Conservation - Trails
Fitzwilliam Inn
Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce
Greater Manchester Area Chamber of Commerce
Hannah Grimes Marketplace
Historical Society of Cheshire County
Innovision Realty
The Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth
Jack Daniels Motor Inn
Lakes Region Tourism Association
Lake Sunapee Region Chamber of Commerce
Little River Bed & Breakfast
Manchester Historic Association - Millyard Museum
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
Monadnock Travel Council
Morgan Franklin Fellowship
NH Bed & Breakfast Association
NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food
NH Division of Travel & Tourism Development
NH Division of Economic Development
NH Division of Parks & Recreation
NH Fish & Game Department
NH Historical Society
Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority
Northern Community Investment Corporation
NH Made
NH Motor Speedway
Pleasant View Bed & Breakfast
SEE Science Center
Stephanie Seacord - Portsmouth Peace Treaty, Japan
American Association, Strawbery Banke
Stonewall Farm
The Hotel Concord
White Mountains Attractions Association
White Mountain National Forest
Kathy Schillemat
Karen Simmons
Leonard Swenson
Lillian Swenson
Chelley Tighe
Kaysyn Walker
Maryellen Walker
Beth Wood
Training Partner Presenters
7. Event Partners
Bedrock Gardens Fairy / Hobbit House Fest
Greater Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce
Hillsborough Fest & Fair
DoubleTree by Hilton, Manchester Downtown
Millyard Communications Inc.
Made in NH Expo
Monadnock Travel Council
Cheshire Fair
Keene Ice & Snow Festival
Epsom Elks Lodge - AMBIE Awards Luncheon
Great American Ribfest & Food Truck Festival
NH Division of Travel and Tourism
Best of NH Party
Farm & Forest Expo
Made in NH Expo
NH Camping & RV Show
New England Brewfest
The Big E
NH Farm and Forest Expo
NH Homebuilders Association
NH State Home Show
NH State Council on the Arts - Poetry Out Loud
Eastman Community - GSA Holiday Party
NH Federal Credit Union CU4 Reality Financial
Strawbery Banke
Candlelight Stroll
Ghosts on the Banke
Vintage & Vine
Portsmouth Fairy House Tour
The Bridges House
Governor’s Holiday Party
9. Our Explore NH Passport program launched
this year with a partnership with the
NH Heritage Museum Trail. Active GSAs
received a special passport to explore NH.
Participating Museums include:
NH Boat Museum | Castle in the Clouds | Remick
Country Doctor Museum & Farm | The Libby
Museum | Wright Museum of World War II | Lake
Winnipesaukee Museum | Museum of the White
Mountains | USS Albacore | American Independence
Museum | Woodman Museum | Aviation Museum
of NH | Canterbury Shaker Village | Currier Museum
of Art | Manchester Millyard Museum |
NH Historical Society
Explore NH: NH Heritage Museum Trail
Member Visitor Center Partners
Bedrock Gardens, Lee
Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce
Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce
Capitol Region Visitor Center
Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce
Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce
Lake Sunapee Region Chamber of Commerce
Lakes Region Tourism Association, Tilton
Littleton Area Chamber of Commerce
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
Manchester Millyard Museum
Monadnock Travel Council
Greater Keene Chamber of Commerce
Greater Hillsborough Chamber
of Commerce
NH Division of Travel & Tourism
Canterbury Welcome Center
Colebrook Welcome Center
Hooksett North Welcome Center
Hooksett South Welcome Center
Intervale Welcome Center
Lebanon Welcome Center
Littleton Welcome Center
Salem Welcome Center
Sanbornton Welcome Center
Seabrook Welcome Center
Springfield Welcome Center
Sutton Welcome Center
NH State House Visitor Center
White Mountain National Forest
Gateway Visitor Center - Exit 32
Headquarters - Exit 27
11. White Mountains Attractions
Association 4-day Educational Tour
Newfound Lake Association EcoTour
Quarterly Meetings with Manchester-
Boston Regional Airport Management
LaBelle Winery
Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum
Eastman Community
GSA Holiday Party
New Hampshire Transportation
Management Cesnter
Fairfield Inn - Manchester
Manchester Millyard Museum
W.S. Badger Company
Hanover, NH:
Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce;
Hilton Garden Inn;
Residence Inn;
Six South Street Hotel;
Hanover Inn;
Skinny Pancake;
Hood Museum & Dartmouth College
Brookline, NH:
Andres Institute of Art;
Andres Sculputure Park;
Cozy Tea Cart
Department of Corrections
Retail Industries
NH State House
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Social Committee:
Journey to the North Pole
White Mountain Museum
at Plymouth State University
Jean’s Playhouse
Lunch Bunch: Firefly, LaBelle’s
Winery, & Gypsy Cafe
Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse
The Ski Geezers
12. 100 Hours
Ruth Dabrowski
Michelle Demirjian
Linda Duquette
Richard Flagg
Paula Fortner
Kathy Gallo
Pauline Green
Douglas Hadfield
Richard Jenkins
Donna Kirouac
Bob McGrath
Elaine Merritt
Kevin O’Meara
Kathleen Rice Orshak
Mark Orshak
Patricia Storm
Shulamit Walker
Nicholas Wallner
Sharen Wheeler
250 Hours
Iris Altilio
Joan Baldessari
Matt Blanchard
Joseph Distefano
Lois Dziergowski
Kevin Irwin
Donna Kirouac
Ron LaBelle
Rosalind Lowen
Mary-Helen McGrath
Dan McGuire
Bob Mullen
Barbara Rousseau
Nancy Shearer
Patricia Storm
Faye Tresvik
Nicholas Wallner
500 Hours
Karen Green
Karen Jordan
Donna Kirouac
Philip Lefebvre
Connie Loken
Karen Maitland
Diane Miner
Christine Stacey
Nicholas Wallner
1000 Hours
Sandra Chandonnet
Elaine Demers
Pam Magrath
Ronald Ricker
Kathryn Segreti
Marlene Taussig
2000 Hours
Timothy Adams
Moe Demers
Judy Lai
Patty Mason
Howie Wheeler
EARNED & HOURS AWARDS
Annual Hours
Nicholas Wallner - 730
Donna Kirouac - 494
Karen Green - 455
Tim Adams - 439
5000 Hours
Vivian Villemure
GSA of the Year – Marty Wagner
Comfort Inn Concord Class of 2011
The GSA of the Year is recognized for excellent service to the community and
dedication to the GSA mission. This GSA is making a difference, providing
guests a unique experience with spirit and enthusiasm, and helping other GSAs
by training and mentoring with patience.
Marty is an amazing and dedicated GSA, as she is first in line to step up to help
with the harder projects. She is incredibly prepared and resourceful, and she
donates her time in many different ways as a GSA. She is a regular at the
Canterbury and Hooksett Welcome Centers, as well as the Concord Chamber.
Marty helped solicit multiple items for our annual auction, as well as donated
items herself. Each year, she volunteers to represent the Merrimack Valley for
our GSA Certification trainings. With her own time and at her own expense,
she reaches out to all of the chambers in the region, drives to their locations and
picks up 100 copies of their books, writes up information pages on the region
and has them printed, all in addition to driving to all of our certification
trainings and presenting as part of the Falling in Love with NH module. Marty
was also instrumental in the research, editing and completion of the Regional
Resource Guide project.
Award Sponsors:
1000 Hours
Award Sponsors:
Top Annual Hours;
2000 & 5000 Hours
“Congratulations Marty on such a
great achievement! You are invited to
stay at one of our wonderful NH Bed &
Breakfasts as part of your celebration!
See you soon.”
13. Hospitality from the Heart Award –
Maryellen McGrath
Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Class of 2012
The Hospitality from the Heart Award is given to the GSA who spends endless
hours trying to go unnoticed and gives generous contributions to other GSAs
from their warm heart.
Maryellen is always helpful and willing to give of herself to other GSAs and our
guests. She has also been great about spreading the word about the organization
and bringing in new GSAs. She is representative of Hospitality from the Heart,
both with our volunteers and guests all over the state. Maryellen volunteers at
many special events, where she is incredibly positive and welcoming to everyone.
She also volunteers at the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.
Service Award – Duncan McIntyre
Isles of Shoals Class of 2003
The Service Award is given to the GSA that serves the GSA program by
volunteering their time with enthusiasm. They are someone who shares their
training expertise with others while still continuing to learn about the state of
New Hampshire.
Duncan is always a pleasure to work with on any shift, and he has such an
easy-going manner with everyone he meets. He knows the state extremely well
and shares that information with an abundance of patience when helping
visitors to the state, and also when mentoring new GSAs. He takes all the time
in the world listening carefully to what the person wants, but he is also ready
with a variety of suggestions for each visitor. He is a quiet presence who gives so
much each time he works a GSA shift, whether it is at Hooksett North (often on
Saturday mornings), various shifts at the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport,
special events, or helping at GSA trainings.
Judi Window - It’s Always Sunny
in New Hampshire Award – Christine Stacey
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport Class of 2015
The Judi Window It’s Always Sunny in NH Award is given to the person
who best exemplifies the “It’s Always Sunny in NH” spirit, serving guests
even in difficult situations with a smile and a positive outlook.
Christine Stacey exemplifies a sunny, joyful, and happy Granite State
Ambassador perfectly. She has so much joy, is always laughing and
encourages others to laugh with her. She never makes a negative comment,
and she makes everyone feel happier just by being in her presence. She is
willing to do any task and always does it with a smile. Christine knows so
much about our state and continues to learn. She is very quick to
compliment her fellow GSA’s and will happily caboose tours at the State
House and assist with students who may need assistance. She can be
found volunteering at the State House or at special events.
14. 2019 Special Awards
Tony Evans
Bruce Flegal
Paula Fortner
Sue Geyer
Yvonne Gillen
Emily Goulet
Roberta Grady
Karen Green
Sue Greenbaum
Darlene Greenwood
Anne Hatin
Iris Altilio
Betsy Booth
Sarah Brown
Jim Byrd
Evangeline Christon
Martha Clark
Sally Corcoran
Elaine Demers
Moe Demers
Linda Duquette
Sharon Ebol
KUDOS AWARDS
Ann Karcich
Philip Lefebvre
Virginia Leighton
Connie Loken
Heather Lovejoy
Karen Maitland
Patty Mason
Jean McGiffin
Mary Helen McGrath
Dan McGuire
Elise Merrick
Diane Miner
Veronica Molloy
Carmen Nadeau
Stephen Nelson
John Richards
Barbara Rousseau
Kathryn Segreti
Christine Stacey
Patricia Storm
Marty Wagner
Nicholas Wallner
Maureen Walsh
Gretchen Ziegler
GSA Booster of the Year Award
Bruce Flegal
McAuliffe Shepard Discovery Center
Class of 2014
Industry Merit Award
Marnie Cinquantini
Southern NH University
Class of 2014
Division of Travel & Tourism
Bureau of Visitor Services
Rest Area Attendant
Industry Merit Award
Barbara Cabral
Gunstock Mountain Resort
Class of 2013
Division of Travel & Tourism
Bureau of Visitor Services
Rest Area Attendant
10 Year Pins - Active members
of the 2009 Classes
Concentra Urgent Care
Discover Portsmouth
Division of Travel & Tourism
Littleton Century 21 Winn Association
5 Year Pins - Active members
of the 2014 Classes
Cathedral of the Pines
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
Medallion Opera House
Southern NH University
Rookie of the Year Award
Nick Wallner
The Bridges House
Class of 2018
15. History of the AMBIE Awards
The Granite State Ambassadors’ “Achievement Awards” were established in
1999 to honor 20 GSAs who had achieved 100-500 hours of volunteer service.
After growing to honor hundreds of GSAs for thousands of hours of service,
the event was renamed the “AMBIE” Awards (like the Emmy Awards, but for
Ambassadors).
Throughout the year, fellow Granite State Ambassadors, Center Managers,
tourism and state officials, and the traveling public, take time to give “Kudos”
to our Granite State Ambassadors.
From these submissions, our Nominating Committee, comprised of former
GSAs of the Year, and Board and Staff members, meets to discuss the
suggestions. This team develops a recommended slate of award recipients for
approval by the NHGSA Board of Directors.
GSAs of the Year
2019 - Marty Wagner
2018 - Kathryn Segreti
2017 - Moe Demers
2016 - Sue Greenbaum
2015 - Anita Memos
2014 – Sue Geyer
2013 – Jean McGiffin
2012 – Lorraine Charron
2011 – Richard Russell
2010 – Jean Acton
2009 – Vivian Villemure
2008 – Linda Gross
2006 – Jim Narkiewicz
2005 – Trudy Hainey
2004 – Paul Lacourse
2003 – Mary Osborne
2002 – Ron Brown
2001 – Rita Glasheen
2000 – Gerry Steinberger
1999 – Georgie/Charlie Reagan
Hospitality from
the Heart Award
2019 - Maryellen McGrath
2018 - Ron Lai
2017 - Diane LaBelle
2016 - Patty Mason
2015 - Joyce Heinrich
2014 – Judy Lai
2013 – Steve/Karen Jordan
2012 – Sue Geyer
2011 – Al Peters
2010 – Judy Greer
2009 – Don/Bev McWay
2008 – Pearl Martin
2006 – Ann Carroll
2005 – Jill Guild
2004 – Trudy Hainey
2003 – Roger Bernier
2002 – Art Garey
2001 – Paul Carroll
2000 – Pat Michell
1999 – Mary Osborne
Service Award
2019 - Duncan McIntyre
2018 - Brenda Urban
2017 - Maureen Walsh
2016 - Marty Wagner
2015 - Moe Demers
2014 – Kathleen Kozak
2013 – Sue Greenbaum
2012 – Kate/Gary Bashline
2011 – Anita Memos
2010 – Lorraine Charron
2009 – Joe Reisert
2008 – Jean McGiffin
2006 – Lloyd Farnham
2005 – Linda Gross
2005 – Virginia Stone
2004 – Jim Narkiewicz
2003 – Therese Colford
2002 – Jim Theodosopouls
2001 – Mel Schunneman
2000 – Vera Hujar
1999 – Jean Acton
Judi Window -
It’s Always Sunny in
NH Award
2019 - Christine Stacey
2018 - Deborah Hickey
2017 - Dan Memos
2016 - Kathryn Segreti
2015 - Howie Wheeler
2014 – Judi Window
2012 - Joanne Tethers (Sunshine)
2011 - Lorry Young (Sunshine)
SPECIAL AWARDS (Past 10 years)
2018 - Karen Maitland, Tom Malafronte, Bob & Irene Mullen
2017 - Tim Adams, James Byrd, Mary Lenz, NH State House Visitor Center, White Mountain Attractions Association
2016 - Carolyn O’Brien, Doreen Braley, Connie Loken, Moe Demers
2015 - Jennifer Codispoti, Jennifer Townsend, Kirsten Powelson, Indian Head Resort, Kathleen Beliveau, Sue Greenbaum,
Jeanne Walcek, Paul Lacourse, Kathleen Kozak, Brenda Urban, Yvonne Cote, Deb Hickey, Kathryn Segreti,
Raymond Croteau, Ann Verow
2014 - Virginia Drew, Pip Adams, Diane LaBelle, Jennifer Tockman, Brenda Urban
2013 – Dianne Fortin, Phyllis Goodhue, Trudy Hainey, Anita Memos, Marty Wagner, Howie Wheeler
2012 – Jennifer Aldrich, Christine Colby, Dylan Crepeau, Maison D’Amelio, Royce D’Amelio, Moe Demers,
Allison Demirjian, Nathan Pasquale
2011 – Charlene Courtemanche, Kathleen Kozak, Bob Spoerl
2010 – Kelly Bryer, Jacky Courtois, Leo Glasheen, Kirk Membry, Charlie Reagan, Helen Ryba
2009 – Kathy Cassavaugh, Jill Guild, Peter Morgan, Ron Brown, Lois Mosowitz, Wally Mitchell
16.
17. Major Supporter Gifts & Perks
2018 - Volunteer Service Award in Group Category - Awarded at Volunteer NH’s Spirit of NH Awards
2015 - NH Travel Council “Tourism Person of the Year” Awarded by the NH Travel Council to Board Chair,
Gretchen Ziegler
2012 – “Volunteer Champion Award” - For volunteerism at its best. Awarded by Volunteer NH
2012 – “2012 Top 20 Businesses in NH” - Awarded by New Hampshire Herald
2009 – “Profile Award” - In recognition of strength and character based on contributions to the state in preserving
New Hampshire’s heritage, culture, resources, traditions, and history. Awarded by Old Man of the Mountain Legacy Fund
2007 – “Governor’s Commendation” - For 10 Years of Service to New Hampshire. Awarded by NH Resource & Economic
Development - Commissioner George Bald for Gov. John Lynch
2004 – “NH Business of the Year” - Tourism/Hospitality. Awarded by Business NH Magazine and the NH Association of
Chamber of Commerce Executives
2004 – “Granite Pineapple Industry Leader” - Awarded to Bill Petersen, GSA President by Greater Manchester
Chamber of Commerce for his tourism leadership in the city of Manchester
2003 – “Most Valuable Volunteer(s)” - National Award – Nominated by NH Lodging & Restaurant Association.
Awarded by American Hotel & Lodging Association
2003 – “Yankee Barn Raiser” - Awarded to Bill Petersen, GSA President by Yankee Magazine for his service as president of
GSA Inc. and to the state of New Hampshire
2000 – “Very Best Volunteers In NH” - Awarded by NH Magazine and voted for by the residents of New Hampshire
1997 – “Tourism Person of the Year” - Awarded to Judi Window, GSA Managing Director by the NH Travel Council
AWARD WINNING ORGANIZATION
Downtown Manchester
Envy Sports Club & Cafe
Fairfield Inn, Manchester Airport
Franklin Pierce Homestead
Jack Daniels Motor Inn
Kearsarge & Upper Valley Life Magazine
Massage Envy
Quality Inn, Manchester Airport
Epsom
19. The White Mountains Attractions Association would like to THANK all past and present
Granite State Ambassador volunteers for your service promoting tourism in the State
of New Hampshire and for passionately sharing your knowledge and experiences in
the White Mountains and at our popular Attractions with the visiting public.
#whitemountainsVisitWhiteMountains.com
ICONIC ATTRACTIONS. MOUNTAINS OF FUN!
THE WHITE MOUNTAINS ATTRACTIONS THANK YOU!
WHIT
E
MOUN
TAINS
NE
W
HAMPSHI
RE
20. www.FlyManchester.com
Granite State
Ambassadors
470 Mast Road
Goffstown NH 03045
(240) 621-0638
info@nhgsa.com
www.NHGSA.com
Special Thanks to our Key Partners
Plan your New Hampshire Stay-Cation
at our Holiday Fundraising Auction!
November 1-10, 2019
www.32auctions.com/nhgsa2019
For more holiday fun, check out our friends at
NH Made’s 2nd Annual Holiday Auction
October 25 - November 6, 2019
www.32auctions.com/nhmade2019
2018 Peer Award Winners
Deb Hickey, Brenda Urban,
Kathryn Segreti, & Ron Lai