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Taylor City – The Hidden Gem Spanning Two Statelines
By Mike Moore
Those traveling down the tree-lined highway in Effingham, New Hampshire, just about to cross the border into Parsonsfield, Maine, could blink and miss the historic treasure that is Taylor City. While small in population, after all, there are only five residents and only a mere handful of buildings, Taylor City is huge on old-world charm and nostalgia. Ducking those highways with heavier traffic isn’t the only benefit of NH State Route 153; many are pleasantly surprised when rounding the corner and seeing the large, brown building that makes up Ye Olde Sale Shoppe just a few feet from the road. Bill Taylor, a lifelong resident of Taylor City, has operated the shoppe for more than three decades, keeping the ownership within the Taylor family consistently since it was built by Bill’s ancestor, Benjamin Taylor, back in 1815. Bill’s parents, Earl and Alice Taylor, ran the shoppe prior to him, dating all the way back to 1947.
Ye Olde Sale Shoppe, the crown jewel of Taylor City, can be found right along the highway, half of the building in New Hampshire, with the other half residing in the state of Maine. But those looking for some off-the-radar historic exploration on either side of the border can find a safe place to park the car to hike throughout the woods of the area. While the centuries-old schoolhouse of Taylor City, a school that Bill Taylor’s parents and grandparents attended, is no longer standing, the foundation still
remains, along with the foundations of various other dwellings throughout Taylor City’s history. Throughout the forests surrounding Taylor City, hikers could stumble upon various ancient cemeteries, mostly untouched by the outside world, yet some still visited by their descendants.
Taylor City and the Ye Olde Sale Shoppe served many roles in the community over the last two hundred years. In the early days, the shoppe not only had a general store that had various food and yard goods for purchase, it also housed the post office and was a regular stage stop for travelers. But Ye Olde Sale Shoppe earned its name because the women of the community used the upstairs of the building to make and sell clothing, known during those times as “sales” work. Being a stage location was also a convenient way to distribute the created clothing back in the bigger cities. Though Taylor City only consisted of a small parcel of land, the Taylor family was a hugely important part of the development and advancement of this part of the Lakes Region. As the years went by and the next generations of the Taylor family took over the shoppe and other local businesses, modern transportation and technology ended the need to serve as a stage stop or clothing manufacturer, and the local post office was moved to a location outside the town. But the general store aspect remained popular for the decades to come. When Bill’s father, Earl, returned from World
War II and took over the Ye Olde Sale Shoppe full-time in 1947, the convenience store aspect of Taylor City’s endeavors became the primary focus. Though only three buildings stand along the bend of the road that takes drivers from Maine to New Hampshire or vice versa, the shelves of the Taylor family’s long-standing store continue to be stocked with convenience items, though Ye Old Sale Shoppe is much more of an antiques, collectibles, and gift store nowadays. Although the candy in Bill’s shop might be what visitors rave about the most, amongst the hundreds of unique items available for sale. Throughout Bill’s tenure running Taylor City, he’s consistently had the shoppe open and available for travelers and locals alike to stop in, but rather than retire in his retirement years, his love for the shoppe and Taylor City keeps him passionate to share his family history year after year. Lately, it’s around mid-May when Bill opens up again, but just on weekend days, then usually around mid-June, folks can come browse from Wednesday through Sunday. While there, Bill will make sure you feel welcome, as the shoppe isn’t just his business, it’s his family’s history. And throughout the Taylor family’s history, being a part of and, more so, being a helpful member of the community has been most important.
Taylor City is such a huge part of Effingham, New Hampshire, and Parsonsfield, Maine, the two communities surrounding it. But Ye Olde Sale Shoppe is
not just a unique gift store that resides in two different towns, counties, and states, it’s a pivotal part of the community. The shoppe often works in tandem with the South Effingham Church to host community events throughout the summer, such as ice cream socials that offer delicious treats and raffle drawings. During the fall and spring, Bill loves to open up the store and town for special events, especially craft and bake sales. Members of the South Effingham Church, as well as other people of the Effingham and Parsonsfield communities, share their artistic, cooking, and baking talents, making them available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting preservation efforts for the town and its historic buildings. Taylor City is also a supporter of other local businesses, often working together to promote and advertise as a group effort. The Harvest Shop Hop is an event Ye Old Sale Shoppe participates in along with several other antique and ware shops in and around the Lakes Region. The local businesses raffle off gift certificates to customers who visit each store throughout a weekend in the autumn. These antique stores regularly collaborate with one another to hold raffle drawings that encourage those going antiquing to visit each shoppe for a chance to win.
Perhaps the biggest event the shoppe participates in is the annual “Christ• Taylor City continued on page 4
Fall Colors Trail Time and More with Chocorua Lake Conservancy
Get out on the trails this fall with CLC! Join in for a dive into nature with a free, relaxed-paced walk on local conservation land. Several afternoons in October are opportunities to explore the changing colors and light of fall and take in the tranquility of local, public trails. Meet new neighbors and connect with old friends. No registration required: just show up! Join the Trail Time email list to be contacted directly about future Trail Times and notified of any weather cancellations: bit. ly/trail-time.
Please dress for the weather, wear good walking shoes, bring plenty of water and a snack, bug/sun protection, and any other supplies you would typically bring to hike.
Sunday, October 19, 1 pm: Trail Time at Heron Pond, ~2.3 miles total. Meet at the Hammond Trailhead on Scott Road at 1 pm to walk the Heron Pond trail and pond loop. This trail
includes steep sections with moderate elevation change. Visit chocorualake. org for directions.
Sunday, October 26, 1 pm: Trail Time at Runnells Lane, ~2.5 miles total. Meet at the Grove at Chocorua Lake at 1 pm to explore Runnells Lane, a Class VI road southwest of Chocorua Lake that now serves as an out-andback trail, or as part of a loop walk with other Lake Basin roads. This trail has small hills with little elevation change. Visit chocorualake.org for directions.
Additionally, on Wednesday, October 29, from 10 am to 12 pm, Stewardship Director Debra Marnich is hosting volunteers for Berms & Swales Stewardship at the Island at Chocorua Lake, just off of Route 16. The berms and swales that run along the highway beside the lake were put in 25 years ago, a method of best practices to slow and filter runoff from the highway into the lake. The berm, or higher ridge, was
planted with shrubs, trees, and grass to help catch dust from the road. The swale, or ditch, was filled with gravel and larger stones to allow rainwater and runoff to percolate through and be filtered before reaching the lake. Both strategies help to keep the lake water clean and reduce the amount of phosphorus entering the lake. The berms and swales need annual maintenance to help keep them working as designed. Volunteers will prune shrubs and trees from the berm and rake and leaf blow to clear the fall debris in the swale. Bring loppers and a rake if you have them, or there will be a few extras to use. If you have a leaf blower and are willing to use it to help, feel free to bring it along.
Over the last couple of years, CLC has undertaken a significant Shoreline Restoration project along the eastern shoreline of Chocorua Lake, also to protect the lake water and enhance habitat in response to a changing cli-
mate and lake usage. Participants will be able to see some of the fruits of that labor during the work morning. Please meet at The Island public access parking area on Route 16 by the lake. Feel free to come for all or some of the morning. Please bring close-toed shoes, gloves, a water bottle, snacks, and sun protection as needed. Please register via chocorualake.org/events so that we can let you know of any changes in the schedule.
These events are but a few in a series of Chocorua Lake Conservancy programs held throughout the year to encourage people of all ages to enjoy Chocorua Lake and the trails and woods that surround it, and to learn more about the natural world we inhabit.
Visit www.chocorualake.org for information, and follow on Facebook and Instagram.
Laughter, Legends, and Live Music Light Up the Stage This Fall in Rochester
The Rochester Opera House and Rochester Performance & Arts Center announce a full schedule of performances and events for autumn 2025. Mainstage performances include Young Frankenstein (West End Version), continuing through November 2 with multiple show dates including October 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, and November 1 and 2. The Theater for Young Audiences series will present The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley from October 23 to 26, with both morning and afternoon
shows. The Rochester Studio Theatre Company will present Di and Viv and Rose at RPAC, 32 North Main Street, with performances running October 10 through 20. A separate stage adaptation of The Wizard of Oz is scheduled to run from October 11 through November 3. Additionally, Romantic Atmos-FEAR, a rental partner production at RPAC, will be performed October 25 through 27.
The special events and concerts schedule includes The Electric Light Orchestra Experience featuring EVIL
WOMAN on Sunday, November 2 at 8 pm. Singer-songwriter Marshall Crenshaw, with special guest James Mastro, will perform on Friday, November 7. Magic Rocks! Starring Illusionist Leon Etienne will appear on the ROH stage on Sunday, November 9, at 7:30 pm. Dangerous Toys with All Sinners and Wreckless Child will take the stage on Friday, November 14.
The annual “Pack the House” Food and Funds Drive will also take place during this time period. Patrons are encouraged to bring non-perishable food
• Taylor City continued from page 3
mas in Taylor City” celebration on the weekend after Thanksgiving each year. The marquee part of the festivities is the Christmas Concert and “Tree of Lights” lighting ceremony, but there is so much more for people to enjoy. People who attended Christmas in Taylor City are well fed, as food and refreshments are in abundance from when the weekend kicks off on Saturday morning right through to Sunday evening when the fun of the festivities finally winds down. Homemade chowders, chili, pies, and apple fritters are just some of the options for those attending who want to enjoy a warm, tasty treat. The Sale Shoppe is, of course, open for business, which gives those participating in the weekend celebra-
items or donations to support local hunger-relief efforts. Specific date and details for the food drive will be posted on the Rochester Opera House website. Tickets for all events are available now at www.rochesteroperahouse. com or by calling the Box Office at (603) 335-1992. Patrons are advised to purchase tickets directly through the website or official box office to avoid unauthorized third-party vendors.
tion a chance to pick up hand-crafted Christmas wreaths, as well as various Christmas-themed gifts and other collectibles.
There are many storefronts and shops selling antiques throughout the Lakes Region, but few have the charm and history that can match Ye Olde Sale Shoppe in Taylor City. Certainly, none can claim that they are located on each side of the border between New Hampshire and Maine. Whether living nearby and haven’t had a chance to visit this historic and unique antique and collectible shop, or stumbling upon Taylor City when the GPS rerouted away from the heavier traffic, Ye Olde Sale Shoppe has such an admired mystique, it continues to be a desired attraction century after century.
Shop, Play, Dine and Stay the Route 16 Corridor and the Surrounding Area
Fall into the Season at Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm
This autumn, Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm invites visitors to experience the wonder, warmth, and seasonal charm of its historic grounds and immersive programs.
Beginning October 16, Remick launches Haunted History with the Drs. Remick: Eerie Medicine & Spooky Tales. Offered Thursdays through Saturdays at 2 pm and 6 pm, this guided evening program invites guests ages 16 and older to step inside the historic Captain Enoch Remick House and explore the darker side of 19th- and early 20th-century medicine. Tour the historic medical offices of the Drs. Remick and learn real accounts of medical practices and grim happenings that shaped early medicine. Five distinct medical office rooms will be set up with a historic and spooktacular theme and topic. The storytelling tour blends fact and folklore, offering an atmospheric and educational jour-
ney into the unusual world of country medicine. Offered as both an afternoon and evening experience. For ages 16+, ages 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Advance registration is required due to limited capacity and the popularity of the program.
On Friday, October 31, Remick takes part in Halloween in the Village, a beloved community celebration that brings festive spirit to downtown Tamworth. Families and trick-or-treaters are invited to visit the museum’s Captain Enoch Remick House, which will be transformed into a charming trickor-treat station. Costumes are encouraged, and the event is free to attend, making it an ideal stop for those celebrating Halloween in the area.
In addition to these signature events, visitors are welcome to enjoy self-guided fall visits throughout the season. From 10 am to 3 pm daily, weather permitting, guests can explore the mu-
seum’s scenic farm grounds, walk interpretive trails, and engage with seasonal exhibits at their own pace. The pay-what-you-wish admission makes this experience accessible for all. Families and curious explorers will especially enjoy the Cat’s Eye Scavenger Hunt that provides historical detail while honoring Doc’s love of cats; and the Binsack Trail—a gently looping 0.66-mile path offering lovely views of the property and surrounding hills. The trail is open dawn to dusk to foot traffic only; animals are not allowed on the trail or farm.
The museum’s gardens and open-air exhibits remain open for the season, showcasing the late-autumn landscape and the traditional farming techniques used throughout Remick’s long history. Remick’s Museum Center and gift shop are open Thursday through Saturday for fall visitors who want to learn more about the Remick legacy or
bring home a locally crafted keepsake. Grounds and trails are open, weather permitting, and self-guided visits remain one of the best ways to experience the peaceful beauty and rural heritage that define Remick in every season.
For those looking to celebrate fall in a meaningful, memorable way, Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm offers a rare opportunity to connect with New England’s agricultural past while enjoying the traditions and transitions of the season. Whether you’re seeking spooky stories, community fun, or the simple pleasure of a walk among the autumn leaves, Remick welcomes you.
For more information, to register for programs, or to plan your visit, contact the museum at (603) 3237591, email info@remickmuseum.org, or visit remickmuseum.org.
Stone Mountain Arts Center Celebrates the Heart of Fall with Intimate Concerts and Community Traditions
As peak foliage season settles over western Maine, the Stone Mountain Arts Center (SMAC) in Brownfield offers a unique combination of top-tier performances, hearty food, and the kind of warm hospitality that’s made this barn-turned-concert-hall a favorite destination for music lovers across New England.
On Wednesday, October 22, acclaimed indie folk band Hiss Golden Messenger brings their soul-infused Americana to the stage — a perfect soundtrack for late October’s golden light and introspective mood. Then on Friday, October 24, award-winning bluegrass duo Darin and Brooke Aldridge return with a blend of soaring harmonies and heartfelt songwriting. The following evening, October 25, features a double bill of songwriting excellence: Maia Sharp and Catie Curtis share the stage for an intimate night of stories and songs — two masterful voices, each with a loyal following and a deep catalog of work.
As November begins, the energy continues with the DellaValla Trio on Saturday, November 1 — a talented young bluegrass family band known for their tight harmonies and joyful presence. Jazz fans will find
their groove on Saturday, November 8, when the Tom Snow Quintet performs a night of classic and contemporary jazz, featuring saxophonist Ralph Norris and guest trumpeter Trent Austin. Then, on Friday, November 14, SMAC presents “Trad’fecta,” a showcase of three acclaimed artists — David Francey, House of Hamill, and Craig Werth — sharing songs and stories rooted in Celtic, folk, and acoustic traditions.
The season culminates with beloved holiday traditions. On Saturday, December 6, Carol Noonan and friends perform a special Christmas Concert at the Little White Church in Eaton, New Hampshire — a cozy kickoff to the holiday season. Back at SMAC the next day, Sunday, December 7, the annual Christmas Craft Fair fills both barns with local artisans, handmade goods, seasonal treats, and the spirit of giving. And on Saturday, December 13, the stage lights up for Stone Mountain LIVE for Christmas, a festive evening with the SMAC house band, special guest Bill Kirchen, and a full helping of seasonal cheer.
Throughout the fall, many concerts are paired with optional pre-show dinners served in the Queen Post Café
Freedom Rings in the Holidays with Shopping Tour of Freedom
Freedom’s holiday shopping event of the season is in its 24th year! Visit retailers, studios, and homes around Freedom to shop for unique and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones.
Enjoy a shopping tour of Freedom Village through the weekend of Friday, November 21, to Sunday, November 23. For more information, visit www. freedomvillagestore.org.
through
or SMAC’s cozy barn dining spaces. These meals, offered by reservation, highlight seasonal flavors and provide guests with a full-evening experience that blends Maine hospitality with high-caliber entertainment.
Stone Mountain Arts Center continues to honor its founding mission — to bring world-class performers to a small mountain town, and to make every show feel personal. Seating is limited by design, and the venue strongly
encourages early arrival and advance reservations, especially for dinner. All ticket sales are final, and SMAC maintains a strict no-transfer, no-resale policy to ensure a fair and welcoming experience for all guests.
More information, tickets, and dinner reservations are available at www.stonemountainartscenter.com or by calling the Box Office at (207) 935-7292.
to October 31:
What’s UP
Please call ahead for event updates. Information and schedules subject to change.
Through Oct. 26, And Then There Were None, M&D Playhouse, at Eastern Slope Inn Playhouse, 2760 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, 603-7335275, www.mdplayhouse.com.
Through Oct. 31, Return of the Pumpkin People, self-guided tour of pumpkin displays around Jackson, maps/info: Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, www.jacksonnh.com, 603-383-9356.
Oct. 17, Blues Band GA-20, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Oct. 17, Comedian Juston McKinney, 8 – 9:30 p.m., Medallion Opera House, Gorham Town Hall, 20 Park St., Gorham, 603-466-3322, www.medallionoperahouse.org
Oct. 17, Friday Night Jazz with Al Hospers, Jeff Loewer, Mike Sakash and Tim Gilmore, 7 p.m., Majestic Cafe, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 17, Psycho, by Alec Kerr Film Series, 7 p.m., Majestic Theatre, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 17, Pumpkin Walk, 6 – 7:30 p.m., free, family friendly event, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration encouraged: 603-4765900, www.castleintheclouds.org
Oct. 17-19, Pumpkin Carving Competition, Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, 978-580-0905, kathleen@jacksonnh.com.
Oct. 18, 11th Annual James W. Foley Freedom Run, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., 150 Wakefield St., Rochester, www.foleyrun.org
Oct. 18, All Things Pumpkin Sleigh Ride/Tour, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, 978-580-0905, kathleen@jacksonnh.com.
Oct. 18, Art Exhibit Meet and Greet with David Gibson, husband of Susan Trayes, 10:30 a.m. – noon, retrospective of photography of Trayes, Boston, Beauty and Baseball, Gafney Library, 14 High St., Sanbornville, 603-522-7123, email: gafney@gafneylibrary.org. (Exhibit on view for month of Oct.)
Oct. 18, Coyote Island, 6:30 p.m., with opener James Rice, Majestic Theatre, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 18, Halloween Hoots, 5-8:30 p.m., Tin Mt. Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Oct. 18, Hike Upper and Lower Bridle Paths, 8 - 11 a.m., Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: www.castleintheclouds.org.
Oct. 18, Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road, 7 p.m., by Wolfeboro Friends of Music, held at Anderson Hall, Brewster Academy, 80 Academy Drive, Wolfeboro, tickets: www.wolfeborofriendsofmusic.org, 603-569-2151.
Oct. 18, Waterfall Photography Workshop, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., held at Castle in the Clouds, presented by ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, pre-register for details.: 603-323-8041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Oct. 18 & 19, Leaf Peepers Craft Fair, 10/18: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., 10/19: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; exhibitors, handmade items galore, Joyce’s Craft Shows, free admission, held under tents, friendly, leashed dogs welcome, held at Schouler Park, 1 Norcross Circle, Rt. 16, N. Conway, 603-387-1510, www.joycescraftshows. com.
Oct. 19, Demonstration of wood carving by Brian Stockman, First Congregational Church, Wolfeboro, 11 Main St., Wolfeboro, info.: 603-569-4994.
Oct. 19, HOME CONCERT: Champagne Brunch with Mike Sakash & Friends, 11 a.m., location and directions provided with purchase, Majestic Theatre, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 19, Medium Lauren Rainbow, 6 – 7:30 p.m., Medallion Opera House, Gorham Town Hall, 20 Park St., Gorham, 603-466-3322, www.medallionoperahouse.org
Oct. 21, Fall Film Series: A Nightmare on Elm Street, 7 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, tickets/info.: 603-335-1992.
Oct. 21, Knitting Basket Workshop, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., beginners class, ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, pre-register for details.: 603-3238041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com
What’s UP
Oct. 21 The Way of the Bicycling Storyteller, with Andy Davis, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www. tamworthlibrary.org
Oct. 22, Hiss Golden Messenger, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Oct. 22, Phantom of the Opera, 6:30-8 p.m., free snacks and drinks during movie, Cook Memorial Library & Tamworth Arts Council, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Oct. 23, BluGrit Blues Band, 7 p.m., Majestic Cafe, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 23, Costa Rica Wildlife Rescue, 7 - 8 p.m., Tin Mt. Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Oct. 24, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter. com.
Oct. 24, Friday Night Jazz with Time Zones, 7 p.m., Majestic Cafe, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 24, Fright Night, by Alec Kerr Film Series, 7 p.m., Majestic Theatre, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 25, Floydian Trip – Pink Floyd Tribute, 7 p.m., St. Kieran’s Community Center for the Arts, 155 Emery St., Berlin, 603-752-1028, www.stkieranarts. org
Oct. 25, Halloween Town, 3 p.m., safe and entertaining way for kids to enjoy Halloween, Purity Spring Resort, 1256 Eaton Rd., Madison, 603-367-8896, www.purityspring.com.
Oct. 25, Maia Sharp & Catie Curtis, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter. com.
Oct. 25, Sicard Hollow, with opener DellaValla Duo, 6:30 p.m., Majestic Theatre, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 25, Stories from the Trail, Tracking Dangerous Animals, 7 - 8 p.m., Tin Mt. Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, 603-447-6991, www. tinmountain.org.
Oct. 25, Two Great Songwriters One Great Night! Maia Sharp & Catie Curtis, 8 pm, Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield, ME, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Oct. 28, Fall Film Series: Gremlins, 7 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, tickets/info.: 603-335-1992.
Oct. 28, Understanding ‘Classical Music, 6 p.m., free, held at Wolfeboro Public Library, program by Wolfeboro Friends of Music & Wolfeboro Library, inspired cuisine served during the event, reserve a spot: www.wolfeborofriendsofmusic.org, 603-569-2151
Oct. 30, Trunk or Treat Bash, 4 – 7 p.m., Cranmore Mt. Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, www.cranmore.com, 1-800-786-6754.
Oct. 31, Friday Night Jazz with The Dan Moore Experience plays the Charlie Brown Halloween Special, 7 p.m., Majestic Cafe, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Oct. 31, Halloween Costume Line Dance, 7:30 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Oct. 31, House on Haunted Hill, (movie), 7 p.m., free popcorn and Halloween Candy, costume contest, M&D Playhouse, at Eastern Slope Inn Playhouse, 2760 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, 603-733-5275, www.mdplayhouse.com.
Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Village Players, 51 Glendon St., Wolfeboro, tickets: www.village-players.org., 603-569-9656.
Nov. 1, DellaValla Trio, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Nov. 1, Four Sticks – The Music of Led Zepplin, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., Medallion Opera House, 20 Park St., Gorham, 603-723-3421, www.medallionoperahouse. com
Nov. 1, Jim McLaughlin Trio, 7 p.m., Majestic Cafe, 36 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.conwaymajestic.com.
Nov. 2, Josee Vachon & Patrick Ross, 2 p.m., St. Kieran’s Community Center for the Arts, 155 Emery St., Berlin, 603-752-1028, www.stkieranarts.org
Nov. 4, Pie Basket Workshop, 1 – 4 p.m., beginners class in weaving, ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, pre-register for details.: 603-323-8041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Nov. 5, Open Mic Night, 6 - 8 p.m., Medallion Opera House, Gorham Town Hall, 20 Park St., Gorham, 603-466-3322, www.medallionoperahouse.org
Nov. 7, An Evening with Gingerbread Amy, 6 – 8 p.m., cookies, crafts, wine and cheese, Dark Lake Lodge, Wolfeboro, tickets: www.ticketleap.com
Nov. 8, Clay Birdhouse Workshop, 9 a.m. – noon, intergenerational class, ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, pre-register for details.: 603-3238041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Nov. 8, Phaseton Piano Trio, 4 – 6 p.m., First Congregational Church, 115 South Main St., Wolfeboro, Wolfeboro Friends of Music, tickets: 603-5692151, www.wolfeborofriendsofmusic.org
Nov. 8, The Tom Snow Quintet, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Nov. 14, An Evening with Gingerbread Amy, 6 – 8 p.m., cookies, crafts, wine and cheese, Dark Lake Lodge, Wolfeboro, tickets: www.ticketleap.com
Nov. 14, “Trad”fecta!” traditional music, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Nov. 15, 1863 Thanksgiving on the Farm, NH Farm Museum, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 603-652-7840, https://nhfarmmuseum.org
Nov. 15, Rose Cousins and Melissa Ferrick, 8 p.m., Stone Mt. Arts Center, 695 Dug Way Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Nov. 21, An Evening with Gingerbread Amy, 6 – 8 p.m., cookies, crafts, wine and cheese, Dark Lake Lodge, Wolfeboro, tickets: www.ticketleap.com
ONGOING
Along Route 16
not
ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, gallery, workshops & events, open year-round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www. chocoruaartworks.com
Believe in Books Literacy Foundation/Theatre in the Wood, Intervale, programs for children, 603-356-9980, www.believeinbooks.org.
Breakfast Buffet, 7 a.m. - 11 a.m., Wolfeboro Masonic Lodge, 35 Trotting Track Rd, Wolfeboro. Pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, home fries, bacon, sausage, omelets made-to-order, Eggs Benedict, biscuit and gravy, juice, and coffee. Served the second Sunday of every month. 603-569-4637.
Cog Railway, 3168 Base Station Rd., Mount Washington, 800-922-8825, www.thecog.com.
Conway Scenic Railroad, train rides to White Mt. areas, reservations: 603356-5251, station located at 38 Norcross Circle, North Conway, www.conwayscenic.com
First Fridays Receptions, through Dec., 5-7 p.m., refreshments, conversation & art, ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, 3238041, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Friday Night Jam Sessions at Sap House Meadery, 7 – 9 p.m., 2686 White Mt. Highway, N. Conway, 224-267-9209, www.saphousemeadery.com.
Great Glen Trails, outdoor center/activities, Mt. Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com
What’s UP
Jackson Historical Society, 23 Black Mt. Rd., Jackson, info./hours: 603-3834060, www.jacksonhistory.org
Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, meets second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro. A second group meets first and third Tuesday of each month at Community Center, 22 Lehner St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net.
Majestic Café, jazz, blues, and more, 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, mountaintopmusic.org.
Makers Mill, variety of workshops, classes in arts and crafts and more, Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org.
Making Strides, 8 – 9 a.m., daily drop-in walking for groups or singles, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, www.ossipee.recdesk.com.
Mt. Washington Valley Arts Assoc., 16 Norcross Circle, North Conway, 603356-2787, www.mwvarts.org.
Naturalist Led Hikes, Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, space limited, registration/info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
NE Ski Museum, ski exhibits, 2628 White Mt. Highway, North Conway, www. newenglandskimuseum.org.
Open Mic Night at the Medallion, 6 - 8 p.m., free, first Wed. of each month, Medallion Opera House, 30 Park St., Gorham, 603-466-3322, www.medallionoperahouse.org
Ossipee Historical Society Grant Hall Museum, open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – noon until Sept. 30, 52 Rt. 16B, between First Congregational Church buildings, lmsween@roadrunner.com.
Quilting Group, 1 - 4 p.m., meets every 2 weeks, Ossipee Public Library, 74 Main St., Ossipee, schedule/info: 603-539-6390
Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, events, tours, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org.
Roller Skating Night, 5 p.m., Mondays, bring your own skates, for age 18 and up, Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, info/updates: 603-539-1307, www.ossipee.org.
Second Saturday Contradance, Tamworth Outing Club, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, admission charged, info.: Amy Berrier 603-651-5800 or Teresa Fournier at 978-609-2181.
Song and Jam Circle, 6:30 – 8 p.m., community created jams and song circle, 3rd Monday of each month, Runnells Hall, 25 Deer Hill Rd., Tamworth, free, bring your favorite instruments, Arts Council of Tamworth, 603-584-2712, www.artstamworth.org
Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, info: www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.
Tamworth Townhouse Hoot – Bruce Berquist & Jim Alt, 1 – 3 p.m., Saturdays, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, song circle, local musicians welcome to participate, bruceberquist@gmail.com
Thursday Night Book Club, meets fourth Thursday of every month for discussion of books; Mystery Book Club meets second Thursday of the month, White Birch Books, 2568 White Mt. Highway, North Conway, 603-356-3200, www. whitebirchbooks.com.
Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, programs, hikes, nature learning center, 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Wednesdays, Little Angel Service Dog visit Gibson Center, 10:30 – 11:15, Gibson Center, 14 Grove St., N. Conway, 603-356-3231, www.gibsoncenter. org.
Wolfeboro Table Tennis meets every Wed. from 4 - 6 p.m., in basement of All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603-520-5651.
Continuous, Leisure & Legacy: The Timeless Ski Photography of Slim Aarons, NE Ski Museum, 2628 White Mt. Highway, North Conway, www. newenglandskimuseum.org.
Yesteryear
Saving the White Mountains … and Creating Conway
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
At one time, Conway was dense with forests. The nearby White Mountains cast a shadow over tranquil lakes, rivers, and streams, mostly uninhabited by men.
That is decidedly different from today’s Conway/North Conway, which is bustling year-round: skiers come to town in the winter months, eating and staying in the many restaurants and hotels in the area. In the summer, there are tourists, and during fall foliage, the Conways are heavily populated with leaf peepers.
The earliest settlers in this area were the Pequawkets, part of the Algonkian Indian tribe, according to Wikipedia. org. The native peoples took advantage of the rivers for fishing, the woods for hunting plentiful game, and the beauty of the area for a peaceful life. Eventually, however, white men living elsewhere in New England found the White Mountain area quite attractive and began to settle there.
In 1765, Governor Benning Wentworth granted a charter of 69 equal shares of land to worthy families. The new and yet unsettled town was named Conway, after an English statesman, Henry Seymore Conway.
The land was divided with the stipulation that it must be planted, tended, and settled within five years.
Some land grant families neglected to settle in the area, while just as many diligently tilled the soil and began farming and building homes.
By 1775, the population of Conway stood at 275, quite a large number at a time when such remote places usually saw sparse settlement. People were drawn to the Conways, perhaps because of the beauty of the nearby
mountains. With the influx of people— some settlers and some visitors to the town—the first hotel was built in Center Conway. After 1792, many taverns sprang up around the town.
In 1812, Conway boasted a sawmill and gristmill, a meeting place, and several homes. From about this time forward, several inns and hotels sprang up, culminating in the many lodgings in the towns of Conway and North Conway.
If the beauty of the White Mountains drew people to the area over the years, we can thank the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in New Hampshire for its diligent work to save the forests. According to the book A History of the New Hampshire Federation of Women’s Clubs, 1895-1940, the statewide clubs were a driving force in preserving the Granite State’s forests.
At the first Annual Meeting, a paper was presented on forestry. The women were so impressed with the need to preserve the state’s beautiful forestland that at the second Annual Meeting, a Forestry Committee was formed.
The Federation soon joined with the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests. Some clubs contributed funds for the Society for the Protection and became lifetime members. Over the ensuing years, the two organizations worked well together.
Federation clubs worked diligently for the passage of the Weeks Bill, which would form a national forest in the White Mountains. The NH Federation elicited help from other women’s clubs nationwide, and the call was answered when women across the country wrote to their state senators and representatives asking that they vote in favor of the bill. The result was the
eventual passage of the Weeks Bill and the formation of the White Mountain National Forest.
Further, the clubs around the state helped with the passage of a bill to save Crawford Notch and later organized a big effort to save northern New Hampshire’s Lost River.
One of the Federation’s biggest efforts was the drive to save the 600 acres of woodland surrounding the Old Man of the Mountains in 1927. Through other efforts, most of the necessary $400,000.00 was raised.
When asked, the Federation of Clubs got involved, and the group raised the last needed $100,00.00. This was a huge sum in 1927, but through a clever campaign, the women launched a drive to sell 100,000 trees to 100,000 lovers of the Old Man. All state chapters responded, raising funds from the entire United States and five other countries.
Women had been coming to the White Mountains for years and enjoyed walking its trails. Although progress for equality was slow, women were doing things such as hiking Mount Washington. Comical to read today, but taken seriously in its day, an essay by Benjamin Silliman, editor of the Journal of American Sciences and Arts wrote in 1838, of the intrepid women hiking up Mount Washington, “ladies sometimes go on this adventure”. He went on to write that “they should not attempt it because of the fatigue that resulted from the arduous climb” and the fact that they must make the trip “unaided.”
Only women of sound mind and body, with proper clothing, and of course accompanied by a man, should attempt the climb. Of course, some independent women ignored such warnings and enjoyed hiking in the forests.
As the White Mountains opened up to travel and the region’s popularity grew, the Appalachian Mountain Club saw membership grow; women were joining the club as well as men. One club member, Miss M.F. Whitman in 1877 described “A Climb Through Tuckerman’s Ravine,” on Mount Washington. In the same issue, Mrs. W.G. Nowell wrote about “A Mountain Suit for Women,” emphasizing the need for a simpler costume, as women’s dress “has done all the mischief. For years it has kept us away from the glory of the woods and the grandeur of the heights. It is time we should reform.” The writer mentioned the bulky design and danger of traditional skirts, which caught on rocks and led to falls. Clearly, the bustle and tight corsets were on their way out when it came to hiking in the White Mountains.
Conway and North Conway, like other northern places in the state, benefited greatly when vacationers came to the White Mountains to hike and take in the scenery. They often stopped to eat and stay in the villages. The Women’s Clubs in the state can be credited for creating and fighting for the formation and protection of those mountains we so enjoy today.
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce to Present “Christmas in Candyland” 2025 Holiday Parade
The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce plans for its annual holiday parade with the theme this year of “Christmas in Candyland”. Generously underwritten by First Seacoast Bank, Rochester’s holiday parade is scheduled to be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, beginning at 4 pm. The parade will feature an array of floats, high school marching bands, marching units, mobile units, and equestrian units. Those entering floats are encouraged to decorate their entry in keeping with the theme. Floats that are lined up in the assembly area by 2 pm will be judged on theme, creativity, craftsmanship, and overall appearance, with plaques awarded for “Best of Parade”, Second Place, and Third Place.
The parade route will begin on
Wakefield Street by the triangle at the entrance to the Spaulding High School. It will proceed south on Wakefield Street, turning right onto Union Street, then left onto North Main Street to South Main Street, and will disband in front of the Rochester Common.
Thousands of individuals participate in Rochester’s Holiday Parade each year and thousands view the parade as spectators during the parade and via video replay throughout the holiday season. All are welcome to join in the holiday spirit generated by this festive community event. Entries will be accepted through November 30, 2025. For additional information, call the Chamber office at 603-332-5080. Entry forms and guidelines can be found online by visiting www.rochesternh. org/parade.
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Pumpkin, Bacon, S’mores – Oh My! Fall Cookies for Every
By Chef Kelly Ross
Hello again, North Conway and all points nearby. Today’s food theme is a little different, as a few readers have been asking for some new cookie ideas, and let’s face it, there is no bad time of year for some yummy cookies! We are still 2+ months away from the holiday season, but that time of year is all about some great cookie swaps, so we all have a wide array of treats at the house while entertaining. I have cookies ranging in flavors from S’mores, strawberries, banana, oatmeal, bacon, chocolate chips, caramel, and pumpkin, so yup, we have a fun potpourri of flavors to choose from, so let’s get started. Since we are officially into the fall season, let’s chat about a couple of pumpkin cookies, although neither of these is all about the pumpkin. First off, these are more of squares than cookies, but to me, they are kind of the same thing. Pumpkin and oatmeal are a perfect marriage whenever they join forces, and these are a super moist treat to enjoy any time of day, as I have been known to start my day off with a couple of these. Between the pumpkin, oatmeal, brown sugar, and white chocolate chips, this will be one that everyone will remember. These are made in an 8x8 baking dish, which gives me 9 squares, although if you care to double up on the recipe, you can make this in a 9x13 pan, which will give 18+. Prep time is 15-20 minutes, and baking time is 20-25 minutes, and then they should chill for 1-2 hours before eating.
Baked Pumpkin Oatmeal Squares
1 cup oats
½ cup oat flour by grinding oats in blender to make oat flour
½ cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
¼ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 tbsp oil
2 tsp vanilla
½ cup milk
1 cup white chocolate chips
More white chocolate tips for melting and garnishing tops
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line an 8 x 8 baking pan with parchment paper. Using your food processor, grind about a cup of oatmeal until it turns to a dust to give you ½ cup of oatmeal flour. In a bowl, combine oats, oat flour, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin, vanilla, oil, and pumpkin pie spice. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, and stir, then add milk and white chips, and stir well. Press into lined pan. Bake 20-25 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from oven and cut into 9 squares. Melt some more white chocolate chips drizzle over the top. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours and enjoy!
The next and last pumpkin recipe of the day has pumpkin again married off with another fun flavor, and the result is a pumpkin gingersnap cookie. These are soft, perfectly spiced cookies and packed with amazing flavor. Both pumpkin and gingersnaps are flavors that can be a love/hate thing with some, but if a fan of both, you will love them. These are quick and easy to make, as prep time as well as cooking time are each 10 minutes, although the dough needs to be refrigerated for an hour before baking. This can get you as many as 3 dozen small cookies.
Soft Pumpkin Gingersnap Cookies
½ cup butter, room temp
1 cup granulated sugar plus more for rolling the cookies
½ cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup molasses
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1 ½ tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cloves
½ tsp salt
In the bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric handheld mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy and smooth. Then add the pumpkin, molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mix until well combined.
After that, in a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves, and salt. Proceed to add the dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined. The dough will be fairly sticky, so be sure to refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 1 hour. The dough can be chilled for 2-3 days. I personally think these cookies taste better after the dough has sat in the fridge for a day to allow the flavors to meld. When you are ready to bake the cookies, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Also, place some sugar in a small bowl. Proceed to roll tbsp sized balls of dough and then roll them in the bowl of sugar until well coated, place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. I like to use Turbinado sugar as it is coarse, so the granules of the sugar stand out more, but regular sugar also works well. Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cookies look cracked and set at the edges. The cookies will still be soft so let them cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes after removing them from the oven, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and watch them disappear. Oatmeal shows up again in this next one, this time with fresh strawberries and bananas as well as maple syrup in a very natural recipe of sorts which works great any time of day like the first one today. These are also made in bar form like the first recipe and will again be made in an 8x8 pan so you
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know the routine if you care to double it up. Again, soft, moist and above all, incredibly delicious. There aren’t many ingredients, but they surely pack a wonderful punch. Total time for these is an hour. This recipe includes a small batch of strawberry maple jam but if you care to, you can use store bought jam. This recipe has no added sugar, although there is some sweetness to it, but if you care to make these sweeter, add ¼ cup of it to the oatmeal base/topping. As for prep time, plan on 40-45 minutes, most of which is for the jam. Cooking time is a half hour.
Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Bars
For The Strawberry Jam
2 cups frozen strawberries, either fresh/frozen or bagged frozen
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For The Bars
2 cups rolled oats, separated 1 tsp baking powder
2 large ripe bananas, mashed ¼ cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
For the jam, add strawberries and maple syrup to a saucepan on medium heat. Heat until the berries begin to liquify, about 10 minutes. Bring to a boil and cook for an additional 5 -10 minutes, stirring occasionally until berries begin to thicken and become more jam-like. Use a spoon to mash them a little. Stir in the vanilla
• Cookout continued on page 12
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and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the jam to cool for about 20-30 minutes to thicken it even more. To make the bars, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line an 8 x 8 baking dish with parchment paper. Place 1 cup of oats in a food processor or blender, and pulse for 1 minute or until they look like flour. Transfer the oat flour to a large mixing bowl and add the remaining 1 cup of oatmeal and baking powder, and mix well. Add the mashed bananas, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly to combine. Transfer ½ of the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press the mixture into the corners and flatten with the back of a spoon. Spoon the jam over the oat mixture and spread evenly with a spoon or spatula. Spread to within about ¼ inch of the edges so the edge of the jam doesn’t burn. Spoon the remaining oatmeal mixture on top of the jam in big spoonfuls, then spread them out lightly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top turns a light golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in pan before cutting into bars.
I’m a big fan of the last 3 recipes, but the next couple are my favorites, so get ready. First off, how about a stuffed S’mores cookie? Cinnamon graham crackers, mini marshmallows, and chocolate create the actual cookie with eggs and brown sugar, and a few of the usuals, and then additional marshmallows are stuffed into the bottom halves of the cookie and then topped with the other half. The dough for these will
also need to be refrigerated for at least an hour, and more if the timing is right. Everybody loves S’mores, and the only thing missing here will be the smell of a campfire. Prep time is a half-hour, and they will cook in less than 10 minutes. You should get at least 2 dozen of these.
S’mores Stuffed Cookies
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup crushed cinnamon graham crackers
1 cup butter, room temp
¾ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs, room temp
1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup roughly chopped milk chocolate
3 cups mini marshmallows, divided Mix the flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside. Break up the graham crackers into small pieces. Be careful not to let it get too powdery, but some graham cracker powder is okay. Set aside. Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Slowly add the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla. Beat well, then slowly add the flour mixture and beat until just incorporated. Fold in the graham crackers, chocolate chips and chocolate, and 1 cup of the mini marshmallows and now you have the cookie dough. Take 1 ½ tbsp of the cookie dough and create a small indentation. Stuff 4 - 5- mini marshmallows into the indentation. Make sure they
are tightly packed in. Top with another 2/3 tbsp of cookie dough and press together until the dough completely covers the marshmallows. Repeat with the remaining dough and marshmallows. Top the finished cookies with additional chocolate and/or marshmallows to make them prettier if you care to. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, preferably overnight, up to three days. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Uncover the cookies and bake for 8 - 9 minutes or until they turn a light golden brown. Use a spatula to immediately remove the cookies to cool on a wire rack. For the best results, place the cookies near a fan to cool them quickly. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container and enjoy within 24 hours. These will disappear in no time.
Now this is the cookie of all cookies in my book: the ultimate sweet and salty cookie of all time. If you love bacon, caramel, and chocolate in a cookie, not only will you be hooked for life, but once you sink your teeth into these thick, puffy, and chewy cookies, your drool level will be high. These are as good as they get, and seriously, bacon makes everything so much better. Prep time is quick, but again, refrigerate the dough, this time for at least 4 hours and cooking time is 10 minutes max. Plan on this getting you 20 cookies or so.
Bacon Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies 2¼ cups flour
½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp baking soda
1½ sticks soft butter
1 cup light brown sugar
½ cup regular sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 egg
1 egg yolk
1 cup semisweet chips plus ½ cup bittersweet chocolate chips and ½ cup milk chocolate chips.
½ lb or more high-quality bacon, cooked until very crisp and chopped
Caramel sauce
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line cookie sheets with parchment. Beat butter and both sugars until well blended. Add vanilla, egg and yolk until light and creamy, then add flour, salt, and baking soda just until incorporated. Stir in chocolate chips by hand. Chill for 4 hours. Drop by 2 oz mounds onto parchment. Place in oven and immediately lower temp to 375. Bake for 9 minutes or until the tops are golden. When cookies come out, immediately press in pieces of bacon. Let them cool on cookie sheets. Drizzle with caramel. If making these in batches, please make sure you bump the heat of the oven back to 425 degrees before you reload with more cookies, and again drop the heat 375 degrees.
May these recipes inspire the inner Cookie Monster in all of you. Keep those taste buds of yours happy and smiling, and if any of you care to reach out with any questions or feedback, touch base at fenwaysox10@gmail. com.
Bringing the White Mountains Home: River & Stone Candles
By Alyson Short
The idea started with a hike. More specifically, it started with the scent of balsam fir trees on a trail in the White Mountains—that fresh, wild, energizing aroma that makes you stop midstep and breathe deeply. For the founders of River & Stone, a Gorham-based candle company, that moment sparked a question: why couldn’t they bring that exact feeling home?
Like many great small businesses, River & Stone was born from frustration and inspiration. After browsing countless balsam candles both in stores and online, the couple behind the brand, Meag and Ben Poirier, kept encountering the same problem: the scents were either too sweet, too perfumed, or simply not quite right. For someone with sensitive sinuses, finding a clean-burning candle that captured the authentic smell of the New Hampshire woods without triggering a headache seemed impossible. So, they did what any determined entrepreneurs would do—they made their own.
What began as a personal quest to recreate the scent of White Mountains trails has grown into a thoughtful collection of handmade soy candles that speak to anyone who loves the natural world. River & Stone candles are crafted in small batches right in Gorham, each one hand-poured with care and tested to ensure it burns cleanly and efficiently. These aren’t your typical department store candles. They’re designed to accent your space, not overwhelm it—a philosophy that runs through every aspect of the business. The commitment to quality starts with the ingredients. River & Stone uses 100% natural US soy wax, which is vegan and burns cleaner than traditional paraffin. The wicks are braided cotton and paper, completely free of lead and zinc. The fragrance oils are premium quality, but here’s what they
don’t contain: synthetic dyes, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or toxic chemicals. For customers who are increasingly conscious about what they’re bringing into their homes, this transparency matters. You’re not just buying a nice smell; you’re investing in a product that respects both your health and your space.
The fragrance collection itself reflects the couple’s deep connection to the landscape around them. Each scent blend feels rooted in the truth of nature—fresh, herbal, and woodsy notes that evoke the forests, rivers, and mountain air of the North Country. The signature balsam blend that started it all remains a customer favorite, capturing that exact scent memory from a White Mountains hike. But the collection has expanded to include other natural, earthy fragrances that rotate seasonally, each feeling both familiar and unexpected. These are scents that invite you to slow down, breathe, and remember what drew you to New Hampshire in the first place.
Beyond candles, River & Stone has expanded into room sprays and travel
diffusers, allowing customers to bring these nature-inspired scents into every corner of their lives. Whether you’re freshening up a cabin after a day on the trails, creating ambiance in your home, or looking for a portable way to carry that mountain air feeling with you, there’s an option that works.
The attention to detail extends to the packaging, which embodies another core value: sustainability. River & Stone candles come in heavy-bottom glass rocks jars topped with rose gold metal lids—beautiful in their own
right—yet designed with a second life in mind. Once you’ve enjoyed the candle down to the last bit of wax, these containers are made to be cleaned and repurposed. They’re perfect for holding everything from cotton balls to paperclips, succulent plants to spare change. In a world where so much packaging ends up immediately in the landfill, this thoughtful approach to reusability feels both practical and refreshing. The company even provides guidance on their website about proper candle care to ensure you get the most out of each burn—maximum “oohs and ahhs,” as they put it, with minimal waste.
For visitors to the North Country, River & Stone candles offer something uniquely valuable: a way to take the experience home. That balsam scent that fills your lungs on a morning hike? You can recreate it in your living room in January. The peaceful feeling of sitting by a mountain stream? It’s there in a candle. These products serve as more than souvenirs; they’re sensory bookmarks, ways to return to that feeling of being surrounded by wilderness even when you’re back in your everyday life.
The business operates primarily on-
• Candles continued on page 14
At Trex, we see it too. To learn more, contact belletetes.com or stop in at any of our locations.
Cranmore Mountain Resort Unveils New Additions for 2025/26 Winter Season
Cranmore Mountain Resort is raising the bar for winter fun this season with the launch of Cosmic Tubing, an enhanced Cranapalooza experience and a continued investment in sustainable slope grooming technology. Families can also take advantage of early savings through the return of the KidsRule lesson program presale.
“Cranmore has always been about creating memories that bring families and our community together,” said Ben Wilcox, president and general manager of Cranmore Mountain Resort. “This year, we’re introducing new experiences and making thoughtful investments to enhance the guest experience while also continuing our commitment to sustainability.”
Cosmic Tubing – A First for New Hampshire: Opening in late December, Cranmore will debut Cosmic Tubing, a glow-filled nighttime tubing experience unique to the Granite State. Guests can tube under the stars with ever-changing, colorful lights and music every Friday, Saturday, and Wednesday night until 8 pm (9 pm during holidays and
• Candle continued from page 13
line through their website, riverandstonecandle.com, where customers can browse the full collection and have candles shipped directly to their door. This model allows them to reach candle lovers far beyond New Hampshire while maintaining the small-batch, handcrafted quality that defines their brand. For locals and regular visitors, River & Stone also makes appearances at seasonal farmers’ markets, offering the chance to meet the makers, smell the scents in person, and ask questions about the products. Their candles also appear in local stores; if any reader is an interested retailer, visit the wholesale link on their website.
vacation weeks).
Cranmore partnered with Techni-Lux, an Orlando-based lighting manufacturer known for its work at Holiday Valley, NY. Already a popular attraction at ski areas like Camelback, PA, Nashoba, Mass, and Smugglers’ Notch, VT, Cosmic Tubing is expected to become one of Cranmore’s most talked-about new traditions.
A Cleaner, Quieter Mountain with the PistenBully 600 E+: Cranmore has added the PistenBully 600 E+ to its fleet of eco-friendly grooming equipment, the cleanest and quietest snow groomer in its class. Featuring a Tier 4 engine, the E+ reduces fuel consumption, noise and CO2 emissions by up to 20%.
The new machine replaces Cranmore’s first E-Cat, which was introduced to the fleet in 2016, reaffirming the resort’s leadership in sustainable slope preparation.
Cranapalooza – Bigger, Brighter, and Better Located: Cranmore’s signature family après-ski event, Cranapalooza, returns with a fresh look and
There’s something refreshingly authentic about River & Stone’s origin story. This isn’t a business built on market research or trend forecasting. It’s built on Meag and Ben’s genuine love for the natural environment and a desire to create something that didn’t exist in the marketplace—candles that smell like actual nature, not a synthetic approximation of it. The founders’ passion for getting it right, for testing and retesting until the scent was perfect, shows in the final product.
In a region that attracts visitors precisely because of its natural beauty, River & Stone taps into something deeper than tourism. They’re capturing the essence of what makes people fall in love with the White Mountains: the clean air, the towering evergreens, the
new location on the Fairbank Lodge Patio. Beginning in late December, Cranapalooza will take place every Saturday, holiday and daily during vacation weeks through early March.
Guests can expect high-energy music and dancing with DJ Corey Genest, family games, photo opportunities, s’mores by the fire and an appearance from resort mascot C-more. The move to the patio offers better visibility from the slopes and easy access to Koessler’s Bar and the Skimobile Station.
KidsRule Pre-Sale Offers Early Season Savings: Families can save on Cranmore’s popular KidsRule full-day lesson program with special online-only presale pricing:
Oct. 1–31: $199 (last year’s half-day rate)
Nov. 1–Dec. 1: $219 (this year’s half-day rate)
Dec. 2 onward: $249 (rack rate)
Lessons are valid any day of the 2025/26 winter season, making them one of the best values for families planning their ski trips.
Cranmore Mountain Resort is lo-
sense of being surrounded by something ancient and wild. Every candle is a small act of preservation, a way of holding onto those fleeting mountain moments.
For Gorham residents, River & Stone represents the kind of entrepreneurship that strengthens small communities—creative, values-driven, and deeply connected to place. For tourists planning their next White Mountains adventure, it’s worth seeking out these candles, whether online or at a local farmers’ market. They make thoughtful gifts for the people back home who didn’t make the trip, or a perfect treat for yourself as you settle into your vacation rental for the evening.
The next time you’re breathing in the sharp, clean scent of balsam fir on a
cated in the heart of one of America’s best-rated ski towns, North Conway, NH. Located 2.5 hours from Boston, Cranmore is a four-season, family-friendly ski resort known for its ski school, sunny south-facing slopes, and a festive atmosphere geared for skiers and non-skiers alike. Cranmore boasts 56 trails and glades with a variety of terrain for all ability levels, from a beginner-only ski area to classic New England trails and steeps. Cranmore also features activities such as NH’s #1 Snow Tubing Park, a year-round Mountain Adventure Park, a lift-serviced downhill Mountain Bike Park, and many seasonal events. Cranmore is part of the Fairbank Group portfolio.
Cranmore is currently engaged in a $60 million base area redevelopment plan that will morph the resort into a progressive, four-season destination while introducing a second home community. For more information on Cranmore Mountain Resort and Real Estate opportunities, visit www.cranmore. com.
White Mountains trail, remember that someone in Gorham has bottled that exact feeling. River & Stone proves that with enough passion, research, and dedication to quality, you really can bring the magic of the mountains home—one handmade candle at a time. River & Stone candles, room sprays, and travel diffusers are available at riverandstonecandle.com. Look for them at select seasonal farmers’ markets and retailers throughout the North Country. For news and occasional coupons, use their website link to subscribe to their mailing list, and for more casual updates and seasonal fragrance releases, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
