HAMPSTEAD, N.H — Thanks to Make-A-Wish New Hampshire, the dream of a complete truck makeover has been granted to local Wish Kid Kevin (last name withheld), through a collaboration of the Hampstead Lions Club, their Make-A-Wish committee, the Salem Lions Club, and several local automotive businesses.
Kevin acquired his dream truck when he was just 11-years-old, obtaining a vehicle that symbolized independence, excitement and the future he imagined for himself. But when he later faced a pediatric cancer diagnosis, that future became filled with uncertainty and new obstacles.
Throughout his journey, Kevin held onto the hope of one day restoring the truck he loved, turning it into something strong and road ready. That hope became the heart of his wish.
The Hampstead Lions Club played a central role in fulfilling his wish, by partnering with Make-A-Wish New Hampshire to provide the full bodywork needed to restore the truck’s exterior. Their commitment and hands-on support ensured the vehicle looked as good on the outside as it performs under the hood.
The makeover was made possible by the generous work of Phillips Auto, Southern New Hampshire Undercar, Colonial Auto Body and Nick’s Auto Body.
“Kevin’s wish day was truly magical! Together, we surprised Kevin, who was on his way home from a routine checkup in Boston, with his beautiful, updated truck!” said Vice President Nikki Lyons Lahey of Make-A-Wish New Hampshire. “His smile was glued to his face as he investigated every piece and part of his vehicle.”
Kevin received his newly refurbished vehicle surrounded by supporters, who helped bring his wish to life, a moment made possible by the generosity of many.
SynQor moving to Granite State
SALEM, N.H. — Massachusetts manufacturer SynQor is shutting down its Boxborough headquarters and moving to Salem early next year.
The company manufactures power converters for the military, industrial, transportation, telecom and medical industries.
New Hampshire Deputy Majority Leader Joe Sweeney (R-Salem) welcomed the company’s relocation announcement, calling it another major win for the community after Analogic made the same decision earlier this year.
“We are proud to welcome SynQor to Salem,” Sweeney said. “This momentum is not luck. It is the result of years of employer tax reductions, a streamlined regulatory climate, and a state and local partnership that puts free market principles first.”
Sweeney added that companies, like SynQor and Analogic, see the success of projects like Tuscan Village and recognize that Salem supports innovation, investment and job creation.
“(They) flee Massachusetts for New Hampshire because they see a community that is open for business, and we look forward to the opportunity and economic growth their presence will bring,” Sweeney said.
SynQor filed a Massachusetts Workers Adjustment Retraining Notice with the state on Nov. 25, stating that 250 employees would be laid off from the facilities between Feb. 1 and April 1.
All positions will be transferred to the new location, 9 Northeastern Blvd., including the company’s president, chief financial officer, director of sales and 86 production assemblers.
Rocky’s raises $45K for shelters
CONCORD, Mass. — Rocky’s Ace Hardware said its Greater Boston store customers helped raise $18,508 through its annual “Round Up for Pets” fundraiser, while stores nationwide collected a combined $45,646. These donations will go directly to care for rescued and surrendered animals, ensuring their needs are met as they wait for their forever homes.
“We are so grateful to our customers for their generosity,” said Rocky’s Ace Hardware President and CEO Rocco J. Falcone II. “This fundraiser makes a real difference for the shelters and the animals they care for. Every dollar helps provide food, medical care and comfort to pets who are waiting for loving families.”
Participating Rocky’s locations included North Andover, Middleton, Gloucester, and Rockport among other Massachusetts and Rhode Island stores.
Local shelters benefiting from the fundraiser include the MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen and the Merrimack Valley Animal Shelter among others.
“Pets are family,” Falcone said, “and we’re proud to offer our customers an easy way to make a positive impact in the lives of animals in need.”
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