Laconia Becoming “Name Only” Event With Strict Enforcement

Editor’s Note: To help inform riders in New England and beyond of the changing situation leading up to and during Laconia Motorcycle Week (Aug. 22-30) in New Hampshire, “The Laconia Daily Sun” newspaper today graciously agreed to share its coverage with RIDE-CT & RIDE-New England.

Stories today report that despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the city’s mayor still believes the event can be safe, with most vendors banned and parking down the center of Lakeside Ave. in Weirs Beach prohibited, while New Hampshire’s governor vows strict enforcement of social distancing requirements that prohibit people from milling around at bars and restaurants.

Mayor insists Motorcycle Week can be safe…

By Michael Mortensen, The Laconia Daily Sun

LACONIA — Mayor Andrew Hosmer is seeking to reassure people that holding Laconia Motorcycle Week — now less than two weeks away — will not put people’s health at greater risk despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

But many local residents are not so sure.

In remarks during Monday’s City Council meeting, Hosmer said city officials are in regular contact with state public health officials, the governor’s office, and local medical experts as the city prepares to host the 97th rally which before COVID drew tens of thousands of bikers a year to the Lakes Region.

Promoters and city officials do not expect a turnout like that this time.

“It will take place in name only,” Hosmer told the council.

Police Chief Matt Canfield expects it will be no busier than this past Fourth of July weekend.

To underscore how this year’s rally has been scaled back significantly, the mayor cited several activities and features typical of past years which have been scrapped. The city denied an application for a fireworks display and is not allowing outdoor concerts, vendors, or motorcycle parking down the center of Lakeside Avenue in Weirs Beach.

“The city will not be participating in Motorcycle Week. We are still very cautious,” Hosmer said…

Click here for the remainder of the story.

Sununu announces stepped up enforcement…

By RICK GREEN, The Laconia Daily Sun

CONCORD — The state will step up enforcement of pandemic precautions at bars and restaurants and impose a new mask requirement for large groups, Gov. Chris Sununu said Tuesday, 11 days before thousands of people are expected to descend on Laconia during annual Motorcycle Week.

He said the new provisions came after he saw photos of masses of unmasked people at a rally under way in Sturgis, South Dakota.

“Sturgis was a clear warning sign to us,” Sununu said at an afternoon news conference. “I don’t think anybody saw the photos out of Sturgis and said that looks good.”

Under a new emergency order, people will need to wear masks during events involving 100 people or more.

“We know a spike could occur at any time,” Sununu said. “We know large events often have people coming from out of state and can be super spreader events.

“We will not hesitate to impose penalties or fines for those who willfully or dangerously violate the rules we put forth.”

Social distancing requirements that prohibit people from milling around at bars and restaurants will be strictly enforced by liquor enforcement officers. Establishments will want to comply to ensure their liquor license is not jeopardized, the governor said.

“We have seen in other states people packing into bars and not maintaining social distancing. We want to be proactive.”

Click here for remainder of story.