5 Things: Nominate Business of the Year

Here are five things you should know as you start your Thursday.

1. Nominations needed. The Merrimack Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for the 2012 Business Leader of the Year, 2012 Business of the Year, and the first-ever 2012 Volunteer of the Year. Recipients of these awards represent businesses, community leaders, and individuals who truly shine among their peers.  If you know of a business or individual you feel are role models in their industry and our community, nominate them.Businesses can self-nominate or be nominated by any business or community member. Winners will be recognized and announced at the Chamber's Annual Banquet & Scholarship Fundraiser on Thursday, March 14, at the SERESC Conference Center in Bedford. All nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 1, 2013. Click the following links for online nomination forms:

• 2012 Business or Organization of the Year
• 2012 Business Leader of the Year
• 2012 Volunteer of the Year

2. Cutest couple? Do you think you are Merrimack's cutest couple? Then upload a photo of you and your spouse or significant other to our cutest couple contest before Feb. 13. My fellow Patch editors nearby will choose the couple they think is cutest to be featured on Valentine's Day. Upload your photo and make sure to include your names in the caption.

3. Download books for free. Did you know that you can borrow books on your eReader using your Merrimack Library card? The Merrimack Public Library is a partner with the NH State Library and 170 other public libraries to bring you free downloadable audiobooks for one week or downloadable eBooks for two weeks. All it takes is your library card and installing some easily-downloaded software. The collection includes a wide variety of popular fiction, nonfiction, mysteries, romance, children's, teen materials, and language instruction. Get more information about NH Downloadable Books here, and talk to a librarian if you have any questions.

4. Stay connected during the storm. In the world of Internet and high-tech gadgets, it's easier than ever to stay connected to the news you need to know during a storm like the one predicted to hit over the weekend. Make sure you have access to readily-available information by registering for Nixle alerts from the Merrimack Police and Fire Departments. Nixle alerts are sent by Merrimack's emergency personnel regarding information you need to know during a storm, like road closures, power outages, Red Cross shelters and more. Also make sure you're signed up for Merrimack Patch's daily newsletter and breaking news alerts for of the moment news. Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter for up-to-the-minute information during the storm.

5. Weather watch. The calm before the storm. Today's forecast calls for partly sunny skies and a high of 21. Tonight there is a chance of snow showers after 1 a.m. and cloudy skies with a low of 15. Accumulation of less than half an inch likely. It's Friday and Saturday that we need to be prepared for.