Art, Music, and Moonlight: Summer at Castle in the Clouds
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
It all started with the dream of an ambitious, wealthy man who wanted to live in a special place. The man was millionaire Thomas Plant who built his fortune in the shoe industry. Later in life, he wanted a place to retreat and relax in a bucolic setting.
The estate that Plant created survives into today and is open to visitors for the summer season. This year’s opening day was Saturday, May 24 with a bevy of events and activities as well as the popular Castle tours.
Throughout the summer and fall, visitors can choose the events they are interested in, such as a tour of the Castle to learn about Tom and Olive Plant and the luxurious home they created, or to hike the network of trails. Other activities are many, including workshops and concerts and dining on the patio of the Carriage House with glorious views of the lake and mountains.
Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Castle is open daily and is beautiful anytime of the year. This summer and into the autumn, events are diverse and plentiful around the grounds of the unique estate.
Concerning this season’s events, Charles Clark, executive director says, “In addition to returning favorites like the Community Arts Festival (June 21) and Castle Car Show (October 4), we have a number of new programs. Our popular Music Night dinners are returning, running every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from June 2 through September 3. Reservations and program sign-ups can be made at any time through www.castleintheclouds.org.”
Clark continues, “One of the most exciting things we’re celebrating all
season is the recent designation of the Lucknow Estate as a National Historic Landmark. In addition to that important national recognition, we have developed a lot of new programming with partners from around the region. One thing that I’m particularly excited about is that we will be hosting a rotating exhibition in partnership with the New Hampshire Furniture Masters.” Guests will be able to see beautiful examples of hand-crafted furniture on display in the Carriage House and see how the Castle’s collection of original furnishings compare to the artisan craftsmanship the Furniture Masters practice today.
While hours are curtailed in the late autumn and winter, work goes on during those months to plan the programs for the summer season. Along with this, Robin Sherman, curator, continues ongoing research to learn all
there is to know about various aspects of the Castle and its intriguing history. She is currently exploring the history of the art collection once owned by Thomas and Olive Plant, the original owners of Lucknow (the name they gave their estate, now known as Castle in the Clouds).
Like many collectors, the Plants owned an eclectic mix of art. They had Art Deco pieces, Asian-inspired works, a 19th-century Belgian tapestry, Neapolitan School gouache paintings, numerous prints of Napoleonic battles, and three original Thomas Moran oil paintings. Robin has studied the Plants’ lifestyle and furnishing and says, “Our work is part of an ongoing effort to re-
store Lucknow Mansion to its original appearance and recreate the interiors as they were in the early years of Tom and Olive Plants’ residency, circa 1914 to 1924.”
Should visitors want to see some of the pieces from the Plant’s collection, they can take a tour during the season. (While the Castle does not offer a guided tour specifically about Lucknow’s art, there are informational gallery guides to borrow and explore the artwork at leisure.)
The workers/staff at Lucknow are remembered in a fascinating exhibit on display in the Carriage House gallery. Says Clark, “This will be the second, and final, year featuring our exhibition Lucknow’s Laborers: The People Who Built and Cared for Tom Plant’s Estate.” The exhibition has been updated with some new information about other members of the estate staff, which came to light through continued research after the exhibit debuted in 2024.
Visitors to the Castle will see some updates around the property this summer. “Our winter restoration project this year was to completely overhaul the stone garden shed at Lucknow Mansion. Located just below the footprint of the greenhouse, this small outbuilding would have been used by members of the Lucknow Estate staff as they maintained the many flowers and plants growing in the gardens
• Castle continued on page 4
around the mansion. The project was essential, as failing mortar had led to significant degradation of the building’s stone facade and the entire structure in danger of being lost. The project was funded through the generosity of our community of donors who gave gifts in support of ongoing restoration efforts,” Clark explains.
For those who want to partake in a fun activity this summer, the Castle
has a variety of offerings from music to art to writing and much more. Each Sunday through August 31, you can get a look at the sky with Solar Gazing, which takes place in the field by Shannon Pond. Learn about the sun and try out a telescope between 11 am and 4 pm. The program is run by members of the NH Astronomical Society; solar gazing requires clear skies, so should it be overcast or raining, things move indoors. Astronomers will be in the Winnipesaukee Room in the Carriage House to chat about the sky in all its
Summer Issue Now Available
Dining Out in the Lakes Region Available at
Hundreds of Locations around the Lakes Region!
glory.
Thinking about writing as a hobby? Creative Writing: The Art of Wondering and Wandering is for you. The program takes place on Saturday, June 7, from 1 to 3 pm, and it is a chance to explore your inner creativity as you walk about the Castle grounds.
Constellations at the Castle is a unique program that offers an experience to stargaze at the night sky as the light of the day fades away. The fascinating event takes place on June 12, July 20, and August 14 from 8 to 10 pm in the Carriage House.
Just a sampling of more programs includes Hive Dive on June 13; Saturday hikes; the Community Arts Festival on June 21; Story Time and Craft Hour on Mondays through August 25 from 11 am to noon; Yoga on the Lawns of Lucknow on Mondays from June 30 to August 25 and many more happenings right through the Christmas holiday
season.
Added to the events are tours of Castle in the Clouds with guided and self-guided tours. Experience what life was like for millionaire Thomas Plant and his wife, Olive, and get a behindthe-scenes look at the daily life of their servants. Tours take place seven days a week throughout the season.
When you visit the Castle, plan to spend an entire day. Tour the Castle, take in the amazing views, hike the trails, visit the exhibit, and have lunch on the patio of the Carriage House. Soak it all in and enjoy the home of a man who designed a wonderful retreat for himself and his wife.
Visit www.castleintheclouds.org or call 603-476-5900. The Castle is located at 455 Old Mountain Road in Moultonborough.
Gafney Library Launches “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten”
The Gafney Library is excited to announce the launch of its new early literacy initiative, “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten,” made possible through a Literacy Enrichment Grant awarded by the Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF). This initiative encourages families to read aloud to their young children with the goal of completing 1,000 books before the child enters kindergarten.
To celebrate the start of the program, the library will host a Kick-Off Event on Saturday, June 7, from 10 am to 1 pm. Families are invited to come in, sign up for the program, and receive a special welcome tote bag filled with program information and a free book to get them started on their reading journey. Children will be rewarded along the way with stickers, surprises, and exciting prizes, all for sharing stories
together with their loved ones.
“The ‘1,000 Books Before Kindergarten’ program is all about making reading a joyful, everyday experience between caregivers and children,” said Amy Swanson, Director of the Gafney Library. “We are incredibly grateful to the Children’s Literacy Foundation for their generous support, which allows us to expand this program and bring the joy of books to even more young families in our community.”
CLiF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting reading and writing among children throughout Vermont and New Hampshire, selected the Gafney Library as a recipient of their Literacy Enrichment Grant. The grant provides funding for high-quality children’s books, in-person author visits, and literacy resources to support programs like 1,000 Books Before Kinder-
Newfound Lake Region Association & Minot-Sleeper Library Present Butterfly Storytime
All around Newfound Lake, butterfly eggs are hatching, caterpillars are munching, and butterflies are fluttering- it’s a great time to learn about and look for these special insects! Join Newfound Lake Region Association (NLRA) Education & Outreach Manager Mirka Zapletal on Wednesday, June 11, at 10:30 am in the garden behind the Minot-Sleeper Library for a butterfly-themed story time as we explore the lives, diversity, and superpowers of these special creatures! Storytime starts with “A Butterfly is
Patient” at 10:30 am and includes a craft to take home.
NLRA works to protect the high-quality waters of Newfound Lake and its watershed, maintaining a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Along with educational programming like guided activities and public events, NLRA monitors water quality, conserves land, manages stormwater pollution, and monitors for invasive species. Learn more about their programs, events, and ways you can be involved at NewfoundLake.org.
garten.
“CLiF is delighted to partner with the Gafney Library to help promote literacy within the community,” said CLiF Executive Director Laura Rice. “We are committed to providing access to new, high-quality children’s books and inspiring young readers and writers throughout the region.”
The goal of the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program is to instill a lifelong love of reading in children and to build strong early literacy skills that will prepare them for academic success. Participation is open to all children from birth to age five, and families can track their reading progress with support and encouragement from the library along the way.
For more information about the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program visit the Gafney Library or
call 603-522-3401. To learn more about the Children’s Literacy Foundation, visit www.clifonline.org.
The Gafney Library serves the Wakefield, NH community with a mission to provide free and open access to information, ideas, and enrichment. The library offers programs and resources for all ages, supporting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
Founded in 1998, CLiF is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire a love of reading and writing among under-resourced children in Vermont and New Hampshire. Each year, CLiF serves thousands of children up to age 12 through author visits, storytelling sessions, book giveaways, and literacy resources. CLiF has served over 400,000 young readers and given away more than $10 million in brandnew children’s books.
Your Summer Adventure Starts Here!
Explore sand bars & picnic islands, paddle quiet ponds, relive the Golden Age of Lake Winnipesaukee, and pack the perfect boat-day snacks.
Pick up your FREE copy of The Laker’s Boating on the Lakes — available now throughout the Lakes Region!
Got Bats? Participate in the NH Bat Counts Project
Wildlife biologists need help from volunteers who have bats in their barn or other outbuildings to conduct bat counts this summer as part of the “New Hampshire Bat Counts Project”, to help monitor summer bat colonies in the Granite State. It’s easy to participate, and volunteers are asked to conduct at least one count in June and one count in July.
Structures such as barns and other outbuildings often serve as summer homes for female bats and their young. In the face of white-nose syndrome, which has caused significant declines in bat populations throughout the Northeast, monitoring these “maternity colonies” is more important than ever. New Hampshire Fish and Game and
UNH Cooperative Extension are looking for landowners and homeowners who have bats on their property to help keep track of New Hampshire’s bats by conducting “emergence counts” at roost sites. Volunteers interested in learning more can visit the New Hampshire Bat Counts website at www. wildlife.nh.gov/wildlife-and-habitat/ nongame-and-endangered-species/ bats-new-hampshire/nh-bat-counts for information on conducting a count and submitting data.
There are two upcoming opportunities to learn more about the bat species found in New Hampshire, the threats leading to population declines, how you can help to conserve bats, and participating in the NH Bat Counts proj-
ect, which involves citizen science volunteers in helping to monitor summer bat colonies in New Hampshire:
NH Bat Counts Training on June 4, 7 - 9 pm at NH Audubon Massabesic Center, Auburn, NH. For more information and to register visit extension. unh.edu/event/2025/06/nh-bat-countstraining.
NH Bat Counts Office Hour on June 18, 12 – 1 pm, online via Zoom. For more information and to register visit extension.unh.edu/event/2025/06/nh-
bat-counts-office-hours.
If you have questions about these events or the NH Bat Counts Project, contact Haley Andreozzi at haley.andreozzi@unh.edu or 603-862-5327.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program coordinates research on bats in New Hampshire. Learn more at www.wildlife.nh.gov/ wildlife-and-habitat/nongame-and-endangered-species/bats-new-hampshire.
Free Fishing Day in NH:
Saturday, June 7
Take advantage of New Hampshire’s Free Fishing Day on Saturday, June 7, 2025. On Free Fishing Day, you can fish anywhere in New Hampshire without a fishing license. Both state residents and nonresidents may participate. All other fishing regulations still apply and will be enforced, including season dates and bag limits.
“Free Fishing Day is a great opportunity for anglers of all skill levels to discover—or rediscover—what makes fishing in the Granite State so special, and it’s a great day for family and friends to enjoy the outdoors together,” said John Magee, Inland Fisheries Program Supervisor for the NH Fish and Game Department. “Everyone is sure to be ‘hooked’ after an exciting day of fishing.”
Consider including a few “fishing holes” in your plan for the day because some locations may be crowd-
ed. If you need advice on where to try your luck, visit www.wildlife.nh.gov/ fishing-new-hampshire/stocking-report, where you can find a list of waterbodies that have been stocked this season and our all-new interactive map of trout-stocking locations, including public access sites by waterbody. Many lakes and ponds are not stocked, offering excellent opportunities for warmwater fish such as sunfish and bass. Many smaller streams contain wild brook trout.
For details on fishing rules for various waters, consult the New Hampshire Freshwater and the New Hampshire Saltwater Fishing Digests, available at www.wildlife. nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/fishing-seasons-nh. Find much more information about fishing in New Hampshire at www.wildlife.nh.gov/ fishing-new-hampshire
White-Tailed Deer, Moose: Help Keep NH Free from Chronic Wasting Disease
New Hampshire’s white-tailed deer population once again showed no evidence of chronic wasting disease (CWD), based on monitoring data gathered during the 2024 hunting season. Chronic wasting disease is a neurological disorder that is always fatal to white-tailed deer, moose, and other cervids (members of the deer family). While there are no reported cases of CWD infection in humans, hunters are advised not to consume animals that have tested positive for CWD.
Chronic wasting disease was first identified in 1967 and remained isolated in Colorado and Wyoming for almost three decades. Since then, CWD has spread both within the US and internationally, and has been found as far east as New York and Quebec, bringing the disease far closer to New Hampshire’s borders. To date, CWD has been detected in wild or captive deer in a total of 36 states and 5 Canadian provinces as well as in South Korea, Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
Each deer season, Fish and Game biologists and staff from USDA Wildlife Services collect samples from hunter-harvested deer for CWD testing. Deer biologist Becky Fuda recently received results from a federally certified veterinary diagnostic laboratory indicating that all 404 deer sampled during the 2024 deer season tested negative for CWD. New Hampshire’s monitoring program is part of a nationwide effort to slow the spread of CWD. Since the monitoring program began in 2002, 8,981 deer have been tested in New
Hampshire.
The NH Fish and Game Department is asking hunters to do their part in the effort to keep the state CWD-free by following state restrictions on importing carcasses from CWD-positive jurisdictions and not using natural urine-based deer lures.
“While it is good news that New Hampshire remains CWD-free, we are asking hunters to help our herd by not using natural urine-based deer lures when hunting because these products can potentially spread CWD,” said Fuda. Fish and Game recommends that hunters instead choose from among the many effective synthetic lures available today.
CWD is transmitted by an abnormal protein, also known as a prion. These
abnormal proteins are very stable and may persist in the environment for several years, posing a risk to animals that come in contact with them. While most hunters use small amounts of these lures, continued applications can have cumulative effects over time.
Studies have shown that these prions are found in nervous system tissue, lymph nodes, saliva, urine, and feces, among other places. Urine for natural lures is collected from captive deer facilities outside of New Hampshire, many of which are in states where CWD is present. In many cases, urine is collected from animals held in pens over grates, where a mixture of urine, feces, and saliva accumulates. The liquid is then strained out. “Deer urine is not a regulated industry or product, and
these lures do not undergo any quality control or treatment that might inactivate or kill disease-causing agents,” said Fuda. Because of these risk factors, Fish and Game strongly discourages the use of natural urine-based deer lures while hunting. Several states and Canadian provinces have already banned the use and possession of natural urine-based lures. Evidence also suggests lures are not as effective as marketing campaigns would make hunters believe. A survey conducted by the Pennsylvania Game Commission found that hunters who used urine lures were no more successful in harvesting a deer than hunters who did not.
Hunters who make hunting trips to CWD-positive jurisdictions are reminded that they must follow the mandatory regulations on bringing home deer, elk, moose, or other cervid carcasses from CWD-positive jurisdictions to help keep New Hampshire CWD-free. You may legally bring back ONLY deboned meat, antlers, upper canine teeth, hides, or capes with no part of the head attached, and finished taxidermy mounts. Antlers attached to skull caps or canine teeth must have all soft tissue removed.
Help our herd—to see a map of CWD-positive jurisdictions, and find web resources about how you can help keep New Hampshire CWD-free, visit https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/wildlife-and-habitat/wildlife-related-diseases/deer-diseases.
By Chef Kelly Ross
Hey foodie friends, I hope you are all enjoying the quiet time in these parts because Bike Week insanity is coming soon - a week of fun motorcycles, busy roads, bars and restaurants, and most importantly, a boost for our local economy. Next week, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite recipes dedicated to the biker crowd, as I’ve fed many thousands of them over the years, so I have a good idea of their appetites. Since those recipes will have a Man vs Food mentality, today I’m going the opposite route and into the world of vegetarian grilling, which I truly believe will appeal to the carnivore crowd as well as the vegetarian masses. Any good carnivore also needs great veggie side dishes, and although a side dish to all of you,
these will become a main course for the die-hard vegetarians. I am not a vegetarian, but I still go days at times just eating fruit and veggies, and many of these are part of my repertoire. Let’s get our veggie on!
Of the many vegetarians I know, most of whom I became friends with while in the restaurant biz, they are all avocado fans, especially fans of this recipe. Always a great seller when I ran it as a special, this is a grilled and stuffed avocado filled with a mix of spiced chickpeas and diced cucumbers with a great combo of seasoning, one of which is garam masala, a blend of Indian spices, usually made with whole roasted seeds and then ground and combined. If you were to use this a lot, I would give you the recipe, but I am sharing a quick
Spring Fling & Vintage thingS
June 7 • 9am-3pm
Main Street • Alton • Church Parsonage Lot An outdoor community market filled with vintage items, vendors, artisans, farmers, yard sale spots, kid activities, food truck, music & more! Register at www.altonmarketonmain.com @altonmarketonmain • @communitychurchofalton Presented by: Market on Main and Community Church of Alton
shortcut, although most stores carry it. Not only is this app delicious, but also incredibly appealing to the eye. More than likely, this is one you will multiply when making, as this recipe is for 4 avocado halves, so plan accordingly. The total time to make these is 45 minutes.
Grilled Stuffed Avocados
2 avocados, the bigger the better 1/3 can chickpeas, about 4 oz, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
High-heat oil like grapeseed or avocado
½ tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp salt, divided
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup cucumber, diced
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tbsp plain yogurt
2 tsp garam masala, divided, recipe below if needed
Chopped or whole leaf cilantro for garnish
Garam Masala
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 ½ tsp ground coriander
1 ½ tsp ground cardamom
1 ½ tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp ground nutmeg
‘Cue The Grill
Meat Me Later: Going Vegetarian for the Day!
Place the rinsed and dried chickpeas in a small bowl. Spray or toss the chickpeas generously with your chosen oil, then toss with smoked paprika, 1 tsp garam masala, and a dash of salt and pepper. Place the chickpeas into the hot grill pan in a flat layer. Cook for 10 minutes. Add a bit more oil, toss the chickpeas, and cook for another 10-12 minutes until browned and crispy. Let cool and set aside. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400 degrees. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the center of the avocado so you have a large hole. Spray or coat the avocados with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place avocados flesh-side down onto the grill and cook until dark grill marks form, about 4-6 minutes. Don’t be tempted to move the avocados around, or you’ll lose the grill marks. Meanwhile, mix the cucumber, 1 tbsp lime juice, and ½ tsp salt in a small bowl. In another small bowl, mix yogurt with 1 tbsp lime juice and 1 tsp garam masala. Divide the cucumber mixture be-
• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 11
tween each avocado half. Top each half with 1 tbsp of chickpeas and drizzle with yogurt sauce. Garnish with cilantro and enjoy!
Next is a grilled polenta dish with a roasted red pepper salsa including kalamata black olives, capers, onion, and garlic. Although I’m a big fan of making my own polenta, for this dish I suggest using a storebought tube, which usually comes in a few flavors. I suggest either garlic or sun-dried tomato. The salsa is a quickie done in your food processor. You can have this made in under 20 minutes, and it’s another big winner with the taste buds as well as the eyes. This will get you 8 scrumptious pieces, and is perhaps the best type of app, low on labor and high on impressive presentation.
Grilled Polenta Crackers with Roasted Pepper Salsa
1 tube, prepared polenta, 24 oz, garlic or sun-dried tomato flavor or your flavor of choice, cut into ½ inch slices
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 roasted red peppers, drained well, 1 large jar, 16 oz
½ cup kalamata black olives, pitted
in processor and pulse the power to chop the salsa. Top the polenta with a spoonful of salsa and serve. The salsa is best when all ingredients are at room temp for this dish, but any leftover sauce needs to be refrigerated and is great on many things later.
onion blossom, peel the onion and trim the root end to remove any hair. Slice the pointy stem end of the onion off. Turn the onion so the root end is facing up. Leaving a ½ inch rim around the root, make 4 cuts into the onion, down to the stem end but not all the way through. This results in 4 sections of the onion. Repeating the same motion, make 3 more cuts into each section of the onion, from root to stem end. Turn the onion over to reveal 16 onion petals. Use your hands to separate the layers of petals as needed. If they aren’t spreading, I suggest doing what we do in the restaurant biz by soaking the onion overnight in water, refrigerating. Once ready to cook, preheat a grill to 350 degrees. Drain the onion well if you soak it. Spray a disposable pie plate with olive oil cooking spray. Place the onion stem-side up in the prepared pie plate. Generously spray all the petals with the olive oil cooking spray. Sprinkle the onion with the BBQ seasoning. Put the onion on the grill and close the grill. Roast at 350 degrees, checking halfway, until the onion blossom has opened, 40-45 minutes. The petals should be tender and darkened on the ends. Carefully remove the onion from the grill. Serve warm with the dipping sauce. •
2 tbsp capers
¾ cup flat-leaf parsley, a couple of handfuls
½ white onion
1 clove garlic
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Preheat grill to high. Slice polenta and brush lightly with oil. Grill 2 or 3 minutes on each side to score the cakes and warm them. Place peppers, olives, capers, parsley, onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes
I’m not going to say this is my favorite appetizer ever, but I will say this is my favorite “copycat” of sorts recipe. Everybody and their brother have tried and loved the infamous onion blossom that so many restaurants have offered for well over 30 years, and with good reason. What is not to love about anything in the onion ring family, and although the blossom is far from being in ring form, seriously, yum! For this version, we don’t bread it or fry it, but instead cook the whole unbreaded blossom on the grill, which is not only much healthier and still delicious, but also a huge crowd-pleaser once they set their eyeballs on it. Cook it in a pie pan on your hot barbie for 45 minutes or so, and it is cooked perfectly with slightly charred tips. From there, it is ripped and dipped just like the restaurant version. It comes with
its own yummy sauce for dipping too. This is usually perfect for 4 of you as an app.
Grilled Onion Blossom
Dipping Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp prepared hot horseradish
1 tsp dry BBQ seasoning
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Onion Blossom
Olive oil spray, for the pie plate and onion
1 large Vidalia onion
1 tbsp dry BBQ seasoning
For the dipping sauce, combine the mayonnaise, horseradish, BBQ seasoning, mustard, and some salt and pepper in a small mixing bowl. Store refrigerated in an airtight container until ready to serve. For the
• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 12
Photo by Stoddard Whitridge
The last two recipes of our vegetarian day are based around mushrooms, both are about my favorite: the portabella. As many of my vegetarian friends have told me, the portabella is their version of a steak, especially when cooked on the grill. The theme for this mushroom dish uses the mentality of the classic Caprese. Whether as a salad or often as an incredible boneless chicken dish, anything Caprese is a winner with its awesome combo of tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella, and completed with balsamic glaze. Truly, an awesome combo of flavors that is very famous in the culinary world. For this great appetizer, or main dish for some, the portabella is marinated and then grilled with all the usual Caprese suspects. The marinade, like most, is the difference in taking this dish from being good to being great. It’s only a 10-15 minute marinating process, so it’s not like you must wait a day before grilling. This is for 4 portabella Caprese caps, and the process is barely a half hour.
Grilled Portabella Mushrooms Caprese
For Quality Service Here In The Lakes Region
For The Mushrooms/Marinade
4 large portabella mushrooms, cleaned, stems and gills removed
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 large clove of garlic, grated
1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Kosher salt and fresh grind black pepper
For the Caprese Mixture
1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese balls, drained
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes cut in half
2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced, divided
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Kosher salt and fresh grind black pepper
Balsamic glaze
In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, mix all the marinade ingredients. Add the mushrooms and gently toss to coat. Marinate for 10 minutes, flipping once. Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Make sure your grill grates are clean. Oil the grates right before cooking. In a medium bowl, mix the fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, 1 tbsp of basil, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the mushrooms from the marinade and place them on the hot grill, hollow side down.
Cook for about 4-5 minutes. Flip the mushrooms and cook on the other side for another 4-5 minutes or until the mushrooms are heated through and tender. To fill the mushrooms with ease, I suggest you remove the mushrooms from the grill and place them on a plate or sheet pan. Fill each portabella mushroom with the Caprese mix, then put them on the grill, close the lid to allow the heat to melt the cheese. Remove from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with the remaining 1 tbsp of basil and serve immediately.
Kosher salt and fresh grind black pepper
1 cup finely chopped sweet onion, about ½ large ½ cup sour cream
2 ears corn, shucked 8 corn tortillas
Cilantro sprigs for service
Lastly, today, it’s time for the ultimate vegetarian taco with mushrooms being the “meat” of the taco, and accompanied by a delicious grilled corn salsa. Portabella is the mushroom of choice once again for me, but you can use most any, if you prefer to. If using smaller varieties, I suggest skewering them to make the grilling process easier. These tacos have a great mix of flavors, such as chipotle and lime, which gives you an outstanding marriage of wonderful flavors. Like any taco, feel free to add some of your favorite extra toppings, but I suggest giving these a test drive as-is the first time around, as too many extras may dilute the great flavors. Plan on 35-40 minutes to make these, and this makes 8 tacos - usually perfect for 4 lucky eaters.
Mushroom Tacos with CharredCorn Salsa
6 tbsp vegetable oil, divided 1 tsp lime zest and 2 tbsp fresh squeezed lime juice
4 tsp chipotle in adobo sauce
1 lb portabella mushrooms
Heat grill to medium-high. In a small bowl, whisk together 5 tbsp oil, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 2 tsp of chipotle sauce, then brush the mixture onto both sides of the mushrooms. Season generously with salt. In a large bowl, stir together lime zest, the remaining 1 tbsp lime juice, and the onion, then season with salt and pepper. In another small bowl, combine the remaining 2 tsp chipotle/adobo sauce, sour cream, and 1 tbsp water, then season with salt. Grill mushrooms, flipping once, until charred in places, 3-4 minutes a side, then transfer to a plate. Meanwhile, grill corn, turning occasionally, until charred, 6 minutes. Cut kernels off cobs and stir into onion mixture with remaining 1 tbsp oil. Season with salt and pepper. Grill tortillas, flipping once, 30 seconds total. Slice mushrooms into ½ inch strips. Top tortillas with sour cream mixture, mushrooms, corn salsa, cilantro, and serve. This could easily become your new favorite taco, whether you are a vegetarian or not. I hope you enjoy some of these vegetarian gems; I wouldn’t share them if I weren’t a true believer. Until next week, when we talk Bike Week recipes, keep those taste buds of yours happy, and if you have any questions or feedback, please reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com.
Belknap Mill to Unveil New Exhibit: “Threads of Innovation” Opening Friday, June 6
The Belknap Mill in Laconia, the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States, is proud to announce the opening of its newest permanent exhibit, “Threads of Innovation,” debuting to the public on Friday, June 6, 2025.
This thoughtfully curated exhibit explores the Belknap Mill’s pivotal role as a leader in early industrial efficiency and innovation. At its center is the circa 1890s freight elevator, a key technological advancement that enabled the seamless movement of materials between floors. This innovation supported a vertically integrated production process, allowing raw cotton to be transformed into finished cloth entirely under one roof.
“Threads of Innovation” offers a hands-on and immersive experience that highlights the Mill’s groundbreaking approach to organization and manufacturing — a model that helped shape the structure of modern industry.
“The Belknap Mill is not only a symbol of Laconia’s industrial heritage but
also of the ingenuity and adaptation that defined early American manufacturing,” said Dr. Katherine Switala-El-
mhurst, Vice Chair of the Board at the Belknap Mill. “This new exhibit brings that legacy to life in a powerful and ac-
cessible way.”
To mark the exhibit’s opening and celebrate summer, the Belknap Mill will also host a free outdoor concert as part of its First Friday festivities. Enjoy the swinging sounds of the Freese Brothers Big Band performing live jazz and swing in Rotary Riverside Park at 6 pm. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and relax by the Winnipesaukee River for a fun and festive evening!
Thread of Innovation will be available to all visitors during regular museum hours: Wednesday–Thursday from 12–4 pm and Friday-Saturdays from 10 am – 4 pm. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12 and Mill members.
Visitors are also encouraged to explore the Mill’s featured art exhibition in the Riverside Art Gallery: “Unscripted” by Grace Howe, throughout June.
For more information, please visit www.belknapmill.org or follow the Belknap Mill on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
Felted Shadow Box Class with Patsy Frasier
Join artist Patsy Frasier at the League of NH Craftsmen - Meredith Fine Craft Gallery on Saturday, June 7, from 10 am to 2 pm for a Felted Shadow Box class.
In this class, students will learn the craft of felting to create a beautiful shadowbox framed image. Using your own picture for inspiration or follow along with some supplied at class, turn a 5X5 shadow box into a beautiful shelf sitter or wall hanging. The picture comes to life as you create a background and then bring it forward with dimensional felting. Great for beginners and experienced felters as well. Students may bring an inspirational photo, but some will be supplied, and all other materials will be supplied.
This class is good for those new to needle felting, but all skill levels are welcome.
Tuition is $45 per student with an additional materials fee of $20 paid by cash or check to the instructor at the time of the class.
Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Those who wish to attend MUST sign up by Tuesday, June 3. To register for this workshop, please call the League of NH Craftsmen – Fine Craft Gallery at (603) 279-7920 or stop by the gallery located at 279 Daniel Webster Highway in Meredith, NH.
For more details, visit our website at http://meredith.nhcrafts.org/classes/ and our Facebook page at http://www. facebook.com/nhcraft/
The League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery is located at 279 DW Hwy, Meredith and is dedicated to
the education and support of NH’s fine craft tradition since 1932.
An outdoor space to share the things that matter most.
At Trex® the #1 brand in outdoor living, we believe that a deck is more than just a deck. It’s a place to be enjoyed with the people that matter most -- not sanded, stained and sealed. And you can feel good knowing that our high-performing, low-maintenance decking is made from 95% recycled and reclaimed content and comes backed by 25-, 35- and 50-year limited warranties. At Trex, we see it too. To learn more, contact belletetes.com or stop in at any of our locations.
Through Sept. 1, From Spies to Satellites: The Cold War Era, exhibit on how WWII laid the grounds for the decades that followed, Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
June 2, Monday Evening Free Lecture Series, 7 p.m., Josiah Bartlett, Apothecary, NH historian Bill McKinley in authentic period costume to share his life’s story, Clark Museum Barn, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro. 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org
June 3, Book and Dagger, How Scholars and Librarians Became Unlikely Spies of WWII, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603-5691212, www.wrightmuseum.org
June 3, From Canvas to Film: Exploring the Art and Artists of Lucknow, 6 – 7 p.m., talk with Robin Sherman, curator of Castle in the Clouds, takes place at Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-registration necessary: 603-4768895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org
June 4, An Evening of Music with Bobby Jo Valentine, 7 p.m., folk/pop concert, Congregational Church of Laconia, 56 Sprucewood Drive, Gilford, 603-455-9702, www. laconiaucc.org.
June 4, Music Night with Eric Grant, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seatings, dinner included, Castle in the Clouds, 588 Ossipee Park Rd., Moultonborough, pre-registration a must.: 603-476-5410, www.castleintheclouds.org.
June 4, Polliwogs Spring, 10 – 11:15 a.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Rd., Laconia, pre-registration: 603-366-5695, www.prescottfarm. org.
June 4, SBDC: Business Advising, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
June 4, Zipper Pouch, 5 - 9 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
June 5, Comic Club Showcase for MCS 5th Grade Students, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Moultonborough Central School 5th graders present comic book projects and short videos, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895, www. moultonboroughlibrary.org
June 5, Garrett Smith, 6 – 9 p.m., Notch Biergarten, Beans & Greens Farm, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853, www.beansandgreensfarm. com.
June 5, Jim Tyrrell, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
June 5, 12, 19, 26, Knitting Skills Building Class with Lucie Singler, 10 a.m. – noon, League of NH Craftsmen, Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, 32 Main St., Sandwich, pre-register/info.: 603-284-6831, https://centersandwich.nhcrafts.org/.
June 5-29, If a Picture Paints a Thousand Words, art exhibit, Lakes Region Art Assoc., Tanger Outlets, Suite 300, 120 Laconia Rd., Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org
June 6, Chocorua Lake Guided Paddle with the Loon Preservation Committee & Chocorua Lake Conservancy, bring your own kayak or canoe and oars/paddle, free, limited to 15 people, register: 603-323-6252, www.chocorualake.org
June 6, First Friday Reception with Terri Brooks, 5-7 p.m., meet Terri, guest artist for June at ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, 603-323 8041, www.chocoruaartworks.com
June 6, Freese Brothers Big Band, 6 p.m., free, bring a lawn chair for seating, Rotary Park, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
June 6, Friends Books and Author Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., 40th annual event, featured best-selling /authors speakers Keith O’Brien and David Reynolds, held at Bald Peak Colony Club, Wolfeboro Public Library, tickets/info.: www.wolfeborolibrary.org., email: annp7575@gmail.com
June 6, Joyful Arts Techniques, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
June 6, Lucknow Garden Tour, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m., Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
June 6, Steve McBrian, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
June 6, The Corvettes, 8 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com
June 7, Alton Town Wide Yard Sale, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., rain or shine, sales all over town, maps available May 27, Alton Parks & Recreation, 603-875-0109, parksrec-asst@alton. nh.gov.
June 7, Annual Officer Kainen M. Flynn Memorial Fishing Derby, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Gunstock, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gunstock, info.: 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com
June 7, Creative Writing: the Art of Wondering and Wandering, 1 - 3 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
June 7, Dakota Smart, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
June 7, Felted Shadow Box with Patsy Frasier, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, sign up by June 3, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920.
June 7, From Landscape to Foodscape: Introduction to Container Gardening, 10:30 a.m. – noon, Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org
June 7, Magical Mystery Doors, 8 p.m., Beatles and Led Zeppelin tribute, Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse. com
June 7, Meet the Artist Series: Pia Louise Capaldi, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Lakes Center for the Arts, Meredith, pre-registration necessary: connect@lakescenterforarts.org.
June 7, Memories of Patsy, a Patsy Cline Tribute Show, 7:30 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, 603-519-7506, www.lakeportopera.com.
June 7, NE Lyman Group 25th Annual Boat Show, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., NH Boat Museum, 399 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
June 7, Piano Night with Michael Gallagan, 6 p.m., The Loft at Hermit Woods, 72 Main St., Meredith, 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com
June 7, Printing with a Pasta Press, 10 a.m. - noon, adult program, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Rd., Laconia, pre-registration: 603-3665695, www.prescottfarm.org.
June 7, Ribbon Cutting at Art of Turning, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., 5 Main St., Meredith, pastries, beverages, prize, shopping, with Meredith Area Chamber of Commerce, 603279-6121, www.artofturning.com
June 7, Spring Fling, Market on Main, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., 115 Main Street, Alton. Outdoor community market filled with vintage items, vendors, artisans, farmers, yard sale spots, kid activities, food truck, music, and more.
June 7, Writing in Nature, 10 – 11:15 a.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Rd., Laconia, pre-registration: 603-366-5695, www.prescottfarm. org.
June 7, 14, 21, Intro to Cable Knitting, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
June 8, Chakradance, Holderness Rec., 3 – 4:30 pm, Chakradance is a holistic healing, moving meditations and well-being practice using music, dance, chakras & mandala art. $25 https://www.holderness-nh.gov/recreation-department/bulletins/chakra-dance-8week-series
June 8, Drag Brunch: The Big One, doors open at noon, show at 1:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh.com, 603-536-2551.
June 8, Jim Tyrrell, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
June 8, Lighthouse Louie, 7 pm, Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323-6169, www.thefarmstand.net
June 8, Solar Gazing, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
June 9, Music Night with Johnathan Sarty, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seatings, dinner included, Castle in the Clouds, 588 Ossipee Park Rd., Moultonborough, pre-registration a must. 603-476-5410, www.castleintheclouds.org.
June 10, Lecture Series, From Allies to Enemies: Truman, Stalin, and the Start of the Cold War, speaker David S. Foglesong, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603-569-1212,
June 10, Music Night with Audrey Drake, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seatings, dinner included, Castle in the Clouds, 588 Ossipee Park Rd., Moultonborough, pre-registration a must. 603-476-5410, www.castleintheclouds.org.
June 11, House Tours, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., tour 5 beautiful homes in Moultonborough, tickets at Moultonborough Library, 4 Holland St., sponsored by Friends of the Moultonborough Library, 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.
June 11, More Beginners Crochet Begins, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
June 11, Music Night with Colin Hart, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seatings, dinner included, Castle in the Clouds, 588 Ossipee Park Rd., Moultonborough, pre-registration a must.: 603-476-5410, www.castleintheclouds.org.
June 11, Polliwogs Spring, 10 – 11:15 a.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Rd., Laconia, pre-registration: 603-366-5695, www.prescottfarm. org.
June 12, Story Hour with the Moultonborough Library, 11 a.m. - noon, NH Boat Museum, Moultonborough Campus, 130 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough, 603-5694554, www.nhbm.org
June 12-21, The Wedding Singer, Winnipesaukee Playhouse, 33 Footlight Circle, Meredith, 603-279-0333, www.winnipesaukeeplayhouse.com
June 13, April Cushman, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
June 13, Hive Dive, 10 – 11:30 a.m. & 1 – 2:30 p.m., learn about bees, Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Moultonborough pre-register: 603-476-5410, www.castleintheclouds.org
June 13, NOTley Crue, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh.com, 603-536-2551.
Art & Coffee Club, Thursdays, 9 – 11 a.m., Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts/CCAC, art, workshops and events, open year-round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks. com
Barnstead Farmers Market, Saturdays starting June 7, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., 1 Parade Circle, Barnstead, email: nhbarnsteadfarmersmarket1@gmail.com, www.barnsteadfarmersmarket.com.
Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, gallery and textile museum, events and programs, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Braiding Group, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 4th Sat. of the month, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-662-6501. Also meets every Tues. at 1 p.m.
Breakfast Buffet, 7 - 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.
Canterbury Shaker Village, tours, programs, walking trails, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, 603-783-9511, www.shakers.org
Castle in the Clouds, tours, hiking, programs, concerts, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Country Village Quilt Guild, meets twice monthly, Public Safety Building (back entrance to Police and Fire Dept.), Rte. 25, Moultonborough, countryvillagequilters@ gmail.com.
Family Crafts at the Belknap Mill Museum, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., third Saturday, drop-in event, free, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Fiber Arts Monthly Mingle, first Tues. of every month, 6 – 8 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
First Fridays Receptions, June through Dec., 5-7 p.m., refreshments, conversation & ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, 323-8041, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Gilmanton Farmers Market, June 8-Oct. 12, Sundays, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., local vegetables, flowers, plants, crafts, baked goods, live music and more, 1385 NH 140, on lawn of Gilmanton Year Round Library, Gilmanton Iron Works, 603-491-1687, www.gilmantonfarmersmarket.com
Guided Tours, history and machines of the historic Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, pre-register: jill@belknapmill.org, 603-524-8813 to schedule a time for a tour.
In the Round, 8:45 a.m., Sundays, thought-provoking topics related to tolerance, Benz Center, Sandwich, 603-284-7211.
Indoor Pickleball, 5 p.m., Sandwich Central School gym, Sandwich, every Tues., Thurs. & Fri., parksandrec@sandwichnh.org
Kirkwood Gardens, free, open to public year round, Rt. 3, Holderness, tour the gardens, www.nhnature.org, 603-968-7194.
Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., meets second and fourth Wednesday of each month, First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net
Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, youth and adult sailing lessons, sailing competitions, Gilford, www.lwsa.org, 589-1177.
Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org
Loon Center, walking trails, loon exhibits, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603476-5666, www.loon.org
Makers Mill, a variety of workshops, arts and crafts classes and more, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Making Strides, 8 – 9 a.m., drop-in walking for groups or singles, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www.ossipee.recdesk.com.
Market on Main, farmers market, every other Wed., June 11-Oct. 1, noon – 3 p.m., 115 Main St., Alton, complete schedule: www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-519-8264.
Meredith Community Market, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., 1 Burton Drive, off Rt. 104, Meredith, free admission, 603-409-2871, www.meredithcommunitymarket.com.
Meredith Public Library Bookstore, run by Friends of the Meredith Library, open weekly: Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Thurs. & Fri. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., lower level, Meredith Public Library, 91 Main St., Meredith, 603-279-4303, www.meredithlibrary.org.
Model Yachting, 1 – 4 p.m., Back Bay Skippers at Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Bridge Falls Path, Wolfeboro, watch radio controlled model yachts, NH Boat Museum, schedule: www.nhbm.org.
Molly the Trolley, 569-1080, take tours/rides of Wolfeboro area aboard the fun trolley, info/schedules: www.wolfeborotrolley.com
M/S Mount Washington Cruises, narrated cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee, day & evening cruises, M/S Mount Washington, 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, 366-BOAT, www.cruisenh.com
New England Racing Museum, open Saturdays, 922 NH Rte. 106 N., Loudon, www. NEMSMUSEUM.com
NH Boat Museum, events and exhibits, 130 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough, 603569-4554. Second location: 399 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org.
NH Farm Museum, seasonal (summer & fall) old-time farm events, gift shop, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, contact for open hours/dates: 603-652-7840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org
Newfound Lake Eco-Tours, informative/scientific tours of Newfound Lake, Memorial Day-mid-Sept., Newfound Lake Association, www.newfoundlake.org, call for hours/ dates of operation: 744-8689.
Outdoor Nature-Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Plymouth Historical Museum and Memory House, Saturdays 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., through November and by chance or appointment, exhibits, research information, Old Webster Courthouse, One Court St., Plymouth, 603-536-2337, info@plymouthnhhistory.org.
Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Call ahead for event information and to inquire if program pre-registration is necessary: 603-366-5695.
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, farmstead events, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org.
Roller Skating Night, 5 p.m., Mondays, bring your own skates, age 18 and up, Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, info/updates: 603-539-1307, www.ossipee.org
Rug Hookers, 10 a.m., meets Tuesdays, Tuftonboro Free Library, 221 Middle Rd., Rt. 109A, Tuftonboro, 603-569-4256.
Sculpture Walk, tours of outdoor sculptures around downtown/lakeside areas of Meredith, free, Greater Meredith Program, maps: 603-279-9015.
Second Saturday Contradance, Tamworth Outing Club, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, admission charged, info. Amy Berrier at 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 Squam Lake Cruises, family/educational cruises to look for loons, & wildlife, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, www.nhnature.org, call for hours/dates of operation: 968-7194.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, exhibits, nature trails, events, cruises, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, 968-7194, www.nhnature.org
Tamworth Farmer’s Market, 9 a.m. - noon, Saturdays, 30 Tamworth Road, Tamworth, www.tamworthfarmersmarket.org
Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, 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
The Market at the Weirs, Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., May 24-Oct. 4, fresh produce, meats and artisan crafts, through Oct. 5, Weirs Community Park, 49 Lucerne Ave., Weirs Beach, email: bamm-nh.org., www.themarketatweirs.com
Tilton Farmers Market, Tuesdays, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., next to Police Dept. building, 45 Sanborn Rd., Tilton, Rt. 132, free admission, 603-409-2871, www.tiltonfarmersmarketnh.com
Tuftonboro Country Bluegrass and Gospel Jam, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Tuesdays, donation requested, Old White Church, Rte. 109A, Center Tuftonboro, across from Tuftonboro General Store, 603-569-3861.
Wolfeboro Farmers Market, Thursdays, noon – 3:30 p.m., The Nick Recreation Park, 10 Trotting Track Rd., Rt. 28, Wolfeboro, email: wolfeborofarmersmarket@gmail.com, www.wolfeborofarmersmarket.com.
Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets Wednesdays, 4 – 6 p.m., in basement of All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603520-5651.
Wright Museum of WWII, exhibits and lectures on life on the home front during WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
Crossroads: Change in Rural America at the Museum of the White Mountains
By Mark Okrant
Since 2013, Plymouth State University has operated its Museum of the White Mountains (MWM), a collaborative design, open concept facility that provides opportunities to learn about the history, arts and culture, environment, and tourism legacies characteristic of the region. Unlike many other museums, the MWM has no permanent exhibits. Rather, visitors have an opportunity to view archival and digital learning resources in the form of individual and collaborative works by faculty and students, as well as contributions by residents and others who share a passion for this idyllic region. As a museum, its exhibits provide stories about the people, plants, and animals of the 1,225 square mile White Mountains region.
This summer, in conjunction with the New Hampshire Humanities Council, a Smithsonian traveling exhibition highlighting the changing landscape in rural America will be exhibited at the museum. Titled Crossroads: Change in Rural America, the exhibition examines the evolving landscape of rural America and will run through August 9. As part of the Museum on Main Street program—a national/state/local partnership to bring exhibitions and programs to rural cultural organizations—Crossroads explores how rural American communities changed in the 20th century, as the vast majority of the United States landscape remained rural with only 3.5% of the landmass considered urban. Since 1900, the percentage of Americans living in rural areas has dropped from 60 to 17 percent. The exhibition looks at that remarkable societal change and how rural Americans responded.
According to Smithsonian representative Jennifer Schommer, “Americans have relied on rural crossroads for generations. These places where people gather to exchange goods, services,
and culture and to engage in political and community discussions are an important part of our cultural fabric.” Not even the massive economic and demographic changes that have been occurring in the US have prevented small towns from focusing on new opportunities for growth and development.
Doherty, Director of the Museum of the White Mountains, the exhibition examines the history of communities in the Franconia Notch region, touching on everything from the construction of Interstate 93 to the importance of annual town meetings, Old Home Days, and the rein-
were concerned about factories such as those in Lowell and other textile mill towns hiring people away from agricultural communities. Worried that young people would lose the connection to their hometowns, Governor Rollins (1899-1901) instituted annual Old Home Day as a structured event to bring people back to where they grew up.
The role of this exhibition is to provide an opportunity to reflect on history and present-day communities, allowing us to explore what the future may hold for our areas. Designed by Smithsonian for small-town museums, libraries, and cultural organizations, Crossroads will serve as local meeting places for conversations about how rural America has changed. With the support and guidance of state humanities councils, locales will develop complementary exhibits, host public programs, and facilitate educational initiatives to raise people’s understanding about their own history.
As one of the locations where the Smithsonian Exhibition will appear, the Museum of the White Mountains will present its own version of the exhibition concurrently. It will do this by partnering with historical societies in regional communities to include text, oral histories, photos, and artifacts. Opened in May and available through September 13, The White Mountains: A Crossroads looks at the past, present, and future of the towns of Bethlehem, Franconia, Lincoln, Woodstock, and Plymouth. According to Meghan
vention of area towns and their buildings.
Doherty said that she was drawn to the Smithsonian exhibition, which addresses the five themes of land, community, identity, persistence, and managing change. That exhibition will arrive already curated and prepared to address general issues in rural America. But Doherty was determined to design something similar—except with a decidedly local flavor. As she told us, “I wanted to create an exhibition of our own that looks at the same themes, but in the context of the White Mountains.”
The White Mountains: A Crossroads exhibition will be laid out like a map of the region, said Doherty. The gallery’s south wall will focus on Plymouth, Lincoln, and Woodstock. The central area will examine the construction of I-93 with an emphasis on Franconia Notch. The north gallery wall will be about Franconia and Bethlehem.
In addition to providing information specific to each town, four thematic sections will explore the connections among them:
Structures That Bind includes photos and narratives about how small communities in New England formally come together. One way is through town meetings—a form of town governance largely particular to New England. Other materials will show how towns formally celebrate milestones such as their 250th anniversaries. This section also addresses Old Home Day, instituted in New Hampshire as a reaction to textile mills and other factories luring workers away from rural communities. Doherty said that officials
The Architecture of Community looks at how people create community in a built environment. Postcards and photos will depict how Bethlehem has had a town pool since the 1930s. Photos also chronicle Lincoln’s Kancamagus Recreation Area, which has operated a rope-tow ski area since the 1940s. The area hosts an annual ski race for people aged 3 to at least their 70s. “It’s where the town comes together,” Doherty tells us. Also of interest is the range of structures that host town historical societies.
Subsistence and Beyond addresses the impact of agriculture on communities. Drawn to the western White Mountains by the abundance of timber, families also had to cultivate the harsh terrain to sustain themselves. As train service reached the mountains by the 1860s, these farming communities discovered a new, ultimately more important source of income—tourism— as farmhouses came to house seasonal visitors.
Growth through Renewal is centered on the Bethlehem Historical Society building. It started as a café on the grounds of a large hotel, was pulled down the road by oxen in the 1890s, set where it is now, before being used as a café, meat market, grocery store, antique store, realtors’ office, and vacant building. Today, it serves as a delightful museum.
The display will show how change has occurred because of the constant struggle among those searching for access, livability, tourism, privacy, silence/peace, environmental preservation, and progress with which rural towns and others in the area constantly wrestle.
The Museum of the White Mountains is located at Plymouth State University, 34 Highland Street, Plymouth, and, unless closed for exhibit installations, is open Tuesday-Saturday. For more information, visit www.plymouth.edu
Pictured is an 1865 lithograph depicting the Pemigewasset House in Plymouth, New Hampshire, by John H. Burrford, on loan from the Robert S. Chase and Richard M. Candee Trust.
Yesteryear
Skis, Speedboats, and Summer Crowds: Winnipesaukee’s Sporting Past
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
The allure of boat racing and waterskiing on Lake Winnipesaukee has always been quite a draw, and many people have met the challenge.
One boat, the sleek and famed Legionnaire 70, was owned by wealthy William Stephen Corby of Washington, DC, in the 1920s. He called the boat the Jayee III, and it was known as the fastest pleasure boat built by the Gar Wood shops. Mr. Corby used the boat on Lake Winnipesaukee, where the family had a second home.
The Corby daughters, Eleanor and Justine, loved spending summers on Winnipesaukee. At just age 19, Eleanor raced the Jayee III, which was known to be fast, glamorous, exciting, and unsinkable. According to The Castle and the Club, by Elizabeth Crawford Wilkin, the windshield of the boat was removed when Eleanor took part in a race. The daring young woman won many boating competitions when driving the Jayee III
Fast-forward in time to when the Weirs Ski Club began. The club was formed in the early 1950s, organized by Larry Brown, Bill Goodhue, Bill Trudgeon, who was a well-known snow ski jumper, and Paul Binette, the father of famed water skier Dick Binette. Other interested Weirs Beach area people joined as well.
The group used their contacts to raise $1,500.00 to purchase their first ski club boat. The early ski club was the largest in the United States, and members did both winter snow skiing and summer waterskiing, ensuring that members could be on skis year-round. With about 50 members in the club’s early days, the Weirs Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and local businessmen offered support, and the water ski organization quickly grew.
Waterskiing was coming into its own and was a great spectator sport. Tournaments at the Weirs on Lake Winnipesaukee included ski jumping, as well as other thrilling moves. The club staged exhibitions day and night. It was quite a sight, with waterskiing, skimming over the lake surface, over a jump, and
carrying torches for thrilling entertainment. The displays were very popular and well attended.
To envision what Weirs Beach was like during the waterski Nationals in the 1950s, imagine teams from the United States and Mexico coming to the Lakes Region to compete. Hundreds of people poured into the area, and good spectator bleacher seating accommodated the crowds. An awards banquet was held under a huge tent, and it was a massive undertaking and event for 1954.
There were many people at the Weirs for the water ski event, and it was much different than hundreds of years ago when native people occupied the land.
One commonality between the two groups, however, was that both loved the area for its scenic views, beautiful lake water, and a chance to enjoy all it offered.
In the 1950s, the Wolfeboro Water Ski Club was formed for practicing the sport. It became a big pastime for many and eventually was a popular place for the Eastern Region 3-Event Water Ski competitions.
The group later became the Abenaki Water Ski Club and remains so to this day. Water ski enthusiasts from all over the country travel to Wolfeboro’s Back Bay to be welcomed by the Abenaki Club. The Back Bay offers a water ski jump and a slalom course.
In the 1940s, before the club formed, water ski expert Bruce Parker came to Wolfeboro to start a water ski school at Northeast Marina. He put on public exhibitions with a water ski jump, and it must have thrilled local spectators who had never seen such skilled moves on the water. The club offered a lot over the years, and displayed such tricks as a six-man, three-tiered pyramid and exciting maneuvers and jumps.
An early speedboat race (some say the first in the country) took place in the Lakes Region with the WPBA Wooden Speed Boat competition in 1927. The race was spread out over the season, starting on July 4 and ending on Labor Day. The July 4 kick-off race saw
all sorts of boats lining up to compete from Weirs Beach, with canoes and speedy race boats in abundance. It was a busy day with many spectators and band music to enliven the scene. The races continued over the summer season, and by Labor Day, the competition was part of the Weirs area atmosphere. The end of the race saw Sam Dunsford, driving his Rainbow IV, winning with a time of 23 minutes and 27 seconds. He was the winner of the prized Irwin Cup. This gave boat racing on Winnipesaukee the jump start it needed, and competitions continued from there.
Although few sporting matches were taking place in the Lakes Region in the 1850s, there was one big event in Center Harbor. Perhaps it was because the lake, even at that early date, was drawing vacationers or because of its proximity, but whatever the reason, a rowing match brought excitement with teams from Harvard and Yale competing. According to “Harvard-Yale Regatta – 150 Years of Tradition” at www.gocrimson.com, “Yale issued a challenge to Harvard to test the superiority of the oarsmen of the two colleges.’ ”
The competition was on Tuesday, Aug. 3, 1852, and it all started with an idea formed on a train ride. The train came through Weirs Beach, and two men who soon after started the Harvard/Yale race were on the train. The men were Boston, Concord, and Montreal Railroad superintendent James Elkins and James Whiton Jr. They had
been Boston Latin classmates and had known one another for some time.
As the men rode the train, Whiton mentioned to Elkins that the lake area would make a good place for a regatta. With the knowledge that Whiton was on the Yale rowing team, Elkins came up with the idea of a race on Winnipesaukee, according to information at www.wikipedia.org.
The match would be quite an undertaking, with both clubs needing transportation, lodging, and dining. The railroad would bear the expenses, and they had their own reasons for getting involved. (The agents of the railroad saw the race as an opportunity for more passengers on their rails, thus, they heavily publicized the race beforehand, and it gained attention all over the area and beyond.)
Rowing was a competitive sport, and many college students took to the water to beat out their fellow sportsmen. As the race plans were underway, Harvard determined their team would use their well-known boat called the Oneida, which was an impressive eight-oared barge-type boat. (Rowing was different in those days with heavier boats.)
The Harvard students handled the Oneida with nine club members and a few alternates, while Yale brought about 30 men to compete and three boats – the Atalanta, Shawmut, and
• Yesteryear continued on page 20
The New Hampshire Boat Museum: So Much to See
By Mark Okrant
If you think you have experienced the New Hampshire Boat Museum (NHBM) in the past, there is so much more to see! Founded in Wolfeboro in 1992, with its mission to inspire an understanding and appreciation for the boating heritage of fresh waterways within New Hampshire, the museum has outgrown its original space.
During the spring of 2022, the NHBM purchased a 24,000 square foot building and its surrounding property at 130 Whittier Highway (Route 25) in Moultonborough and has been renovating it continuously ever since. Opened in 2024, the new facility will eventually be available year-round, wherein its extensive collection of more than 2500 objects will tell the story of how freshwaterways contributed to the state’s cultural evolution.
We had the opportunity to visit the impressive space under the guidance of the programs and events manager, Anne Lennon, who shared that opening day for the museum was Saturday, May 24, 2025. The Moultonborough facility will be accessible to the public on Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 am to 4 pm, and from 12 to 4 pm on Sundays. Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by an impressive compass rose inlay and a reception desk that is a replica of a Lyman Boat. Visitors can stop into the gift shop, situated to the right, where there is a variety of boat and lake-themed items and books.
By selecting the doorway to their left, guests will find themselves on a mezzanine consisting of a large, open area that provides space for exhibitions or entertainment. Among the scheduled activities on the gorgeous floor space are a speakers’ series titled Hulls and Hops. Here, boating enthusiasts and beer lovers will come together for evenings (5:30-7 pm) of insight and entertainment, as each month a speaker who is an expert in an aspect of boating will share her or his knowledge using entertaining stories. At the same time, craft beer tastings and light snacks from a different local brewery will be provided in a relaxed atmosphere. This season’s Hulls and Hops schedule follows:
Thursday, July 17 – Dwight Stowell. Dwight Stowell’s lifelong love for New Hampshire lakes and wooden boats began as an infant when he was
In for A Car Check Up
brought to his family’s Great Island camp on Lake Sunapee. Stowell has generously donated several nearly 90-year-old boats to the museum, which will be displayed in the Mahogany Marvels exhibit for the 2025 season.
Thursday, August 21- Geoff Jones. “In Search of Wilderness”: The 1968 Churchill River Kayak Expedition, as told by the sole surviving steward of the story~Geoff Jones. Geoff Jones grew up in rural southwestern New Hampshire in the 1950s and ’60s. He is a professional forester with 45-plus years’ experience.
Thursday, September 11- Jeff “Nemo” Buckley. Chairman of the APBA Vintage and Historic Division, Buckley emphasizes safety and the growth of vintage boat racing. With a background in aviation and a passion for boat racing, Buckley built his first boat at 14 and later competed in off-
shore powerboat races while balancing a military career.
Another of the activities on the Mezzanine is the Artist Series: June 5, Jeremy Noyes, Photographer, will present images that capture the natural beauty of New Hampshire’s lakes and landscapes.
July 10, Anne Xavier, Painter, will present her beautiful works.
August 7, Pam Debitetto, Photographer, has captured the beautiful mahogany lines and hardware of classic wooden boats.
September 4, “Whatever Floats Your Boat,” a variety of artists presented by the Galleries at 30 Main Upon entering the Mezzanine, visitors will be treated to an outstanding overview of the primary exhibit at the museum, which is situated on the floor of the NHBM below. A 3000plus square foot ADA-accessible deckstyle dock and marina designed by Museum Design Associates and assembled by a literal army of volunteers under the capable leadership of trustee John Van Lonkhuyzen will present the visual history of boating in the state’s Lakes Region. Boats that will be moored at the docks will range in age from a 1927 CC Early Times Runabout and a 1927 CC Yacht Tender to a 1959 Century Coronado. Also on display will be seven hot rod boats and six “floating” boats. Behind the docks, there is a beautiful sixty-five-
• Yesteryear continued from page 19 • NHBM continued on page 21
Undine, according to Hidden History of Lake Winnipesaukee by Glenn Knoblock. One of the boats was disqualified due to its construction, leaving Yale with two boats and Harvard with one boat.
Once in Center Harbor, the Harvard and Yale teams lodged at the Senter House Hotel, likely expecting a leisurely stay in the area. Little did they know they were about to take part in something that would become a famed annual event.
Tuesday, August 3, 1852, was regatta day with sunny and warm weather. The teams dressed in their best, with the
Harvard team in red, white, and blue and the Yale men in blue and white. Due to the widespread advance publicity, what began as a fun summertime lark was suddenly something much bigger, with spectators lining the shores and pouring into town to get a look at the action. Added to the crowd, a rousing band was positioned on a boat to entertain spectators.
As the two-mile race began, the excitement was palpable. In the end, Harvard led the day with the Oneida winning.
Today, boats are much faster, and waterskiing is still popular. Nothing, however, will beat the early days of water competitions when vacationing and recreation were young.
foot photograph of a rural lake that depicts, in impressive detail, a shoreline reminiscent of the many views that residents and visitors to the area have shared throughout the years.
The lower level will also feature exhibits that include a plethora of antique boat motors, a selection of toy boat models from Fred Clausen’s private collection, and new this year, a canoe exhibit, along with a vintage race boat exhibit.
In the years to come, the museum will continue to update exhibits and do renovations. There is a large unfinished area located just behind the front desk; when completed, it will display smaller crafts and interactive exhibits about New Hampshire waterways and life on it. In addition, there will also be a community/classroom.
A number of the traditional activities that have been provided to visitors by NHBM will remain available off-site. These include the thrill of riding in one of two replica Hacker Craft mahogany triple cockpit vintage boats owned by the museum. The Millie B leaves from the Wolfeboro Town Docks, Wolfeboro, while the Miss Lauren leaves from North Water Marine in Paugus Bay, near Weirs Beach
Besides viewing its historic collection, opportunities that have long been favorites of visitors to NHMB are the ability to engage in hands-on activities and educational programs for children and families. Undertakings in Wolfeboro include: boat-building classes for adults, families, and youths; community sailing for youths and adults; model
yachting with the Back Bay Skippers; model yacht kit building classes (remote-controlled model sailboats); and Lake Discovery Family Days for elementary-age children.
For those who have dreamed of creating a boat from scratch, the NHBM’s boat-building program gives the opportunity to build your own boat from a kit using high-quality materials at a reasonable cost. During the class, participants will use the museum’s tools and learn boat-building skills from experienced staff and volunteers in a friendly environment. Options include building a canoe, kayak, wood duck kayak, paddleboard, Bevin’s skiff, or peewee.
Much more than a museum, the new NHBM is an experiential learning center that inspires an appreciation of boating, lake life, and the irreplaceable fresh waterways of New Hampshire. During the 2025 season, there will continue to be classes and programs all around Lake Winnipesaukee, some hosted by NHBM and others through partners in the region. Readers are advised to visit nhbm.org for a list of hours of operation, admission charges, sponsorship opportunities, as well as programs conducted indoors and on the big lake in Wolfeboro, Moultonborough, Meredith, and traveling programs in other locations.
For more information about the Moultonborough facility, the traditional boat building programs, and other events mentioned here, admissions, membership fees, and other opportunities, contact NHBM at (603) 569-4554 or museum@nhbm. org
25th Annual Wolfeboro Father-Daughter/ Mother-Son Dance
All girls and boys (aged preschool –grade 6) and the special adults in their lives are invited to attend the Annual Wolfeboro Father-Daughter/Mother-Son Dance on Saturday, June 14, in the Barn at The Inn On Main from 5:30-8:30 pm.
Now celebrating its 25th Anniversary, this much-loved annual spring event is a festive night out, complete with dinner, dessert bar, cash bar, ticketed and silent auctions, games, costumed guests, music & dancing with DJ Laura, professional photos by Kathryn Elizabeth Photography and many more fun surprises! This year’s theme is “Escape to Candyland.” Couple and family tickets are on sale now at wolfeboronurseryschool.org/fatherdaughterdance.
This year’s event is generously sponsored by Eastern Propane & Oil, Island Glow Beauty, and Rourke Fine Home Building along with 603 Tree Care, Expressions Dance Academy, Dr. Richard Neal, DMD and Water’s Edge Salon with support from Bricks at The Lake, Full Moon Farm, The Inn on Main, Kathryn Elizabeth Photography, Kingswood Children’s Summer Theatre, and Meredith Village Savings Bank.
Proceeds from this community event directly benefit The Wolfeboro Nursery School, a non-profit, cooperative preschool that for over 70 years has offered a developmentally appropriate, creative and caring early education experience to local children.
For the Birds! Placement, Installation, and Maintenance of Birdhouses
The Lakes Region is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a prime location for birdwatching and bird conservation efforts. Providing birdhouses is a great way to support local bird populations while also enjoying the beauty of wildlife in your backyard. However, to be successful in attracting and protecting birds, it’s important to know where to place birdhouses, how to install them properly, and how to maintain them.
Different species of birds have different nesting needs. The size, shape, and entrance hole diameter of a birdhouse should match the species you hope to attract. Here are some common birds in the Lakes Region and their preferred birdhouse specifications:
• Eastern Bluebird – A small wooden box with a 1.5-inch entrance hole, placed 4-6 feet above the ground.
• Black-capped Chickadee – A cozy box with a 1.125-inch hole, placed 5-15 feet high in a wooded area.
• Tree Swallow – A box with a 1.5inch hole, located near open fields or water.
• American Kestrel – A larger box with a 3-inch hole, installed 10-30 feet high on a tree or pole.
• Wood Duck – A spacious box with a 4-inch oval entrance, ideally placed near a lake or pond.
Proper placement is key to attracting birds while keeping them safe from predators and harsh weather conditions. Birdhouses should be placed in quiet areas where human activity, pets, and predators won’t disturb nesting birds. In the Lakes Region, placing the entrance
hole facing east or southeast helps shield birds from prevailing winds and harsh storms. Different species prefer different heights. Smaller songbirds do well with houses mounted 5-10 feet above the ground, while larger birds like owls or kestrels prefer boxes placed 10-30 feet high. Mount birdhouses on metal poles or tree trunks. Poles with baffles can deter predators like raccoons and snakes. Placed at least 30 feet from feeders to prevent territorial conflicts among birds. Ideally, near natural food sources such as berry bushes, flower gardens, or water bodies can be more attractive to nesting birds.
Installing a birdhouse the right way ensures that birds will use it and remain safe while doing so. Secure the birdhouse using screws or brackets rather than string or wire, which can damage trees and make the house unstable. Drill small holes in the bottom of the house to allow water to drain out and keep the interior dry. Small ventilation holes near the top of the box help regulate the temperature inside. Perches can attract
unwanted predators or aggressive birds like house sparrows. Instead, use a simple hole entrance.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safety and usability of birdhouses. Spring Preparation: Inspect birdhouses for damage before the nesting season begins. Remove any old nests from the previous season. Disinfect the house with a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water), rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely.
Summer monitoring includes Checking occasionally for signs of predation or weather damage. Avoid disturbing active nests; however, observe from a distance to ensure fledglings are developing properly.
In the fall after birds have migrated or finished nesting, clean out the house again. Make repairs to any broken parts, such as hinges or mounting brackets. Apply a fresh coat of non-toxic, natural-colored paint or stain if needed to protect the wood.
If desired, remove birdhouses during the winter to extend their lifespan. Al-
ternatively, leave them up to provide shelter for wintering birds like chickadees and nuthatches.
Predators such as snakes, raccoons, and squirrels, as well as invasive bird species like house sparrows and European starlings, can pose threats to nesting birds. Metal baffles or cone-shaped guards on poles can deter climbing predators. Use Nesting Hole Restrictors to prevent larger birds or predators from enlarging the hole and invading the nest. If invasive birds take over, remove their nests to encourage native species to reclaim the house.
Providing birdhouses not only benefits local bird populations but also allows homeowners to experience the joy of watching birds raise their young. The Lakes Region’s diverse habitats— woodlands, lakeshores, and meadows—offer an excellent opportunity to attract a variety of species. By choosing the right birdhouses, placing them strategically, and maintaining them properly, you can create a welcoming environment for birds and enjoy their presence year after year.
For those interested in further supporting bird conservation, organizations like New Hampshire Audubon provide valuable resources and guidance on protecting native bird populations. With a little effort and care, you can help sustain the natural beauty of the Lakes Region while enhancing your backyard birdwatching experience. ~ This article was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by Laker Staff for accuracy and clarity.
MIXED USE PROPERTY
2 Units - Parking for 10 cars
Can’t choose between Lake Winnipesaukee or Lake Wentworth? Have a little of both for about half the price! 83 Center Street is a short paddle up or down the Smith River to either lake. This beautiful two unit is about as peaceful as it can get for downtown Wolfeboro. A place where you can sit back and easily watch the worries of the world drift away downstream as you enjoy your 176 feet of privately owned waterfront. A myriad of wildlife will certainly entertain and grace your doorstep and will constantly change with the seasons. A one-of-a-kind two unit where you could live in one unit while you run your business out of the other. It’s a mixed use space with parking for 10 cars which allows you a wide range of options. Stop in, spend a few minutes and let your imagination take hold on all the wonderful possibilities with this unique, one-of-a-kind Wolfeboro location. $575,000
Lake in downtown Wolfeboro A true two unit with possible room for expansion LAKER family publications for 20 years “We’re devastated to leave this proper forced us into a larger location ” Unit 1 is 960+/- square feet with a 3/4 bath and radiant heat flooring which offers a wideopen workspace that was once a yoga studio; it was also once the Wolfeboro F bath and is 700+/- square feet Situated about fifty feet from the Bridge Falls Pa a brisk or leisurely walk after lunch, or just sit and watch the Smith River flow b including ducks, beavers, loons, herons, bald eagles, white tailed deer and mo your business will benefit from superior exposure with an average of 7000 cars and parking for up to 10 cars, the space at 83 Center Street might just be the be
First-time Campers: Essential Gear List
The natural beauty of the great outdoors compels millions of people to incorporate nature into their daily routines. Whether it’s a morning walk around the neighborhood, an oceanfront weekend spent with toes in the sand, or an afternoon lounging on a lake, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
Camping is a wildly popular way for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature. Spending daylight hours in a wooded area or forest may not be unusual for outdoor enthusiasts, but camping under the stars at night can be intimidating for first-timers accustomed to comfortable, climate-controlled bedrooms. The right gear can calm any nervousness first-time campers may have, and the following are some items to take along.
Tent: A tent is obviously a must-have when planning to spend the night under the stars. Shelter protects campers from the elements, insects, and wildlife, so it’s imperative that firsttime campers bring along enough tents to accommodate everyone on the trip. Novice campers may be overwhelmed by the assortment of options available when they look to buy a tent, so it’s best to visit a local outdoor retailer for advice. Share the specifics of the trip, including how long it will be and how many people will need to be accommodated. Such information will help to determine the best tent for your trip.
Sleeping bag, pad, and pillow: A sleeping bag is another necessity, but it’s also important to bring along a sleeping
pad. Temperatures drop at night, so a well-insulated sleeping bag can keep campers warm at night. A multi-season sleeping bag can be an especially useful investment that helps campers prepare for fluctuating temperatures. No matter how comfortable a sleeping bag may seem, the hard ground does not typically increase the chances of a good night’s rest. That’s why a sleeping pad is vital, particularly for first-time campers unaccustomed to sleeping in anything other than a bed. Round out your sleeping must-haves by bringing along a pillow.
Chairs: Of course, camping trip comfort isn’t all about sleeping. A comfortable and foldable chair for everyone in the party is another essential. Chairs should be sturdy and ideally not too heavy, particularly if the
campsite is a long walk from the car.
Kitchenware: Cooking is a fun part of camping, especially when campers remember to bring along the appropriate kitchenware. A camp stove with two burners can make it easy to whip up just about anything. A single burner stove might suffice for small camping parties, but the double burner stove enables cooking more than one
item at once. In addition to a sturdy stove, bring along some forks, knives, and plates.
Bug spray: Bugs won’t get the hint that campers don’t want them around the campsite, so don’t forget to pack some bug spray to repel these unwanted guests.
Sunscreen: Even if you’re staying in a wooded area or forest with ample shade overhead, you’ll want to apply sunscreen to avoid skin damage. Even a mild sunburn can make sleeping in a tent for the first time more difficult, so apply sunscreen early and reapply as directed on the bottle.
Miscellaneous items: Lighting to augment light coming from a campfire, toiletries to ensure bathroom breaks are as comfortable as possible, garbage bags and containers to secure trash and reduce the risk of attracting wildlife, and a few books or magazines to read while resting at the campsite are some additional items first-time campers won’t want to forget.
Camping is a fun activity that’s even more enjoyable when campers remember to pack the right gear.~Metro
Dealing With Pain?
Quantum Healing Can Help!
“My sister set up a meeting for me after she experienced amazing transformation to her health and felt I too would benefit from a chance to feel better in all aspects of life. She was right. It works! From the first session and the follow-up practices I was taught, my back pain remarkably decreased, balance has increased, posture improved, and an unexpected financial opportunity! Now I see that the changes in my way of thinking brings good into my life. I am so grateful to be getting my stride back”
NV
Fans of grilled food may insist grilling is an art form, and there are tricks of the trade that suggest producing delicious foods cooked over an open flame is more complicated than novices may think. Seasoning a grill is one such endeavor. Novices may not know what goes into seasoning a grill, but doing so can make it easier to remove cooked foods from grates that can become sticky as grills are used with greater frequency. Seasoning a grill involves oiling its cooking surfaces and warming it. Some grill manufacturers even recommend seasoning brandnew grills prior to using them. Various cooking oils can suffice when seasoning a grill, but the grilling experts at ThermoPro advise using an oil with a high smoking point. When applying oil to the grates, users can utilize a basting brush, rag, or even a spray bottle. Once the oil has been applied, heat the grill, without any food on it, for roughly 30 minutes, or until the oil begins to smoke or burn. ~Metro
Capturing the Light - Paintings by Terri Brooks Opening Reception
ArtWorks Gallery at the Chocorua Creative Arts Center is thrilled to present a month-long exhibit featuring the work of noted guest artist Terri Brooks, an award-winning member of the New England Watercolor Society, the Pastel Society of America, and a nationally known exhibitor.
After earning a degree in Fine Art and a 30-year teaching career, Terri now works in a beautiful studio in the woods of Freedom, built for her by her husband. There, she initially created watercolors, more recently turning to pastels as her primary medium. Lately, she is delving into printmaking, a medium she enjoyed teaching in public school and recently featured in an exhibit at the 302 Gallery in Bridgeton, ME. She finds the possibilities endlessly interesting.
Terri, her husband, and Newfoundland, Winslow share a quiet life, the
children long out on their own, giving her more time to create her luminous works, often depicting figures at play. Terri explores the play of light on water, snow, and other surfaces with a gentle hand and a creative eye to produce uniquely beautiful pieces.
ArtWorks Gallery, 132 White Mt. Hwy (RT 16) in Chocorua Village will celebrate this extraordinary artist at an Opening Reception on Friday, June 6 from 5-7 pm, immerse yourself in Terri’s magical works. There will be apps and libations, Terri, artist members, and friends on hand. It will be an exciting evening.
This Guest Artist Exhibit will remain up for visitor enjoyment through June, Wednesdays through Mondays from 10 am to 5 pm. You can also find ArtWorks at 603 323-8041 and www. chocouraartworks.com.
Start Your Day Off Over Easy
& LUNCH - MADE FRESH DAILY
Grab breakfast or lunch at The Farmer’s Kitchen. We use only the freshest ingredients for our homemade creations. Come by today to try our:
100% Colombian Coffeefreshly ground from whole beans Farm fresh eggs | Specialty Omelets Eggs Benedict - topped with homemade hollandaise, made fresh to order Buttermilk Pancakes | French Toastserved on thick Texas toast Sandwiches & Burgers | Don't forget to check out our daily breakfast & lunch specials!
Gunstock is Open for Summer Adventure and Camping
Gunstock Mountain Resort’s award-winning Adventure Park and campground opened for the season on Memorial Day weekend. The Adventure Park includes scenic chairlift rides, a mountain coaster, zipline tours, and aerial treetop challenge courses. Early season hours of operation are 10 am to 4 pm on weekends-only through June 22. Starting June 25, Gunstock is open Thursday through Sunday until early September. Gunstock’s campground is open daily through October 20.
New this summer, Gunstock has added 10 full-hookup sites, taking the total number of campsites from 250 to 260. A new welcome center and camp store make their highly anticipated debut this season. In winter, it will serve as the resort’s new Nordic Ski Center. The Gunstock Campground places guests in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, close to the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and at the base of the Belknap Mountains. Wooded and field sites with fire rings and picnic tables serve as home base for guests who enjoy overnight accommodation in a natural setting with easy access to popular area attractions and a variety of on-site amenities: a camp store, playgrounds, a heated swimming pool, a dog park, bath houses, hiking and biking trails, a stocked fishing pond, and Gunstock’s Adventure Park. As a bonus, Gunstock campers receive a discount on Adventure Park activities during their stay. Also new this summer, the Bronco Off-Roadeo that was previously
available only to Bronco owners, is accessible to the public on Fridays and Saturdays through mid-November. Participants drive a Ford Bronco off-road during this hands-on experience, led by industry experts who will show guests how to get the most out of the Bronco SUV’s legendary capabilities. Starting at the exclusive Bronco Off-Roadeo basecamp at the foot of Gunstock Mountain, this unforgettable adventure includes trail drives with on-trail education, thrilling challenges across rugged terrain, and breathtaking vistas. All skill levels are welcome. Experiences are scheduled at 8 am and 1 pm.
“People who know Gunstock only as a winter destination are often surprised to discover that there’s lots to do in summer and fall too,” said Gunstock Resort President and General Manager Robert Drake. “Whether for camping, high-flying adventure, an offroad driving excursion, a quiet walk in the woods, or a delicious lunch on the deck, Gunstock is a must for Lakes Region visitors.”
Gunstock’s Adventure Park caters to thrill-seeking visitors of varying degrees. On the softer side of adventure, there’s a scenic chairlift ride on the Panorama chairlift. Each chair is like a flying park bench that accommodates a maximum of four passengers. The chair, equipped with a safety restraining bar, is securely fixed to an overhead cable for a smooth ride to the mountaintop. At the summit, guests can wander around on their own and enjoy the
amazing views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the beautiful White Mountains beyond, then make the return trip whenever they like. They might even get to see Mount Washington in the distance or its historic namesake, the MS Mount Washington, taking passengers on another scenic tour of the big lake. Gunstock’s scenic chairlift ride offers a distinctive and memorable outdoor experience for every visitor.
Also ranking among the resort’s tamer adventures, Gunstock’s Mountain Coaster is a roller-coaster-like ride on an open toboggan that can accommodate a single passenger or two riders. Anticipation builds as passengers ascend the hillside. Gravity eventually plays a role for an exciting ride through curves and bank turns that follow the mountain’s natural contours with steeps, twists, and rolls. Independent speed is controlled by operating the brake lever, allowing the driver to determine their own rate of speed throughout the descent – and making each ride unique.
For greater thrills, Gunstocks’ popular ZipTour and Aerial Treetop Adventure fit the bill. Visitors soar above the trees from peak to peak, and peak to base, traveling over a combined 1.6 miles on one of the longest zipline tours in the continental United States. This
hour-and-a-half excursion is a journey through nature with an adrenaline rush. Participants can control their speed using a brake or let it rip and approach speeds nearing 70 mph. Constructed among the trees, Gunstock’s Aerial Treetop Adventure is New England’s largest aerial obstacle course. A total of 81 varied challenges are securely suspended within the trees in eight high ropes courses, including the Explorer Course just for kids. Some examples of the features include log ladders, swinging bridges, seesaws, and, of course, ziplines. Participants are fitted with safety harnesses and provided with belay system training at the start of their treetop quest.
When searching for refreshment between activities, guests can visit Gunstock’s Barrel Bar & Grille, conveniently located in the Stockade Lodge. With air-conditioned comfort indoors and outdoor seating on the deck, The Barrel offers a full-service lunch experience to suit all visitors. There’s also a quick grab-and-go option at The Barrel for a snack and a beverage on the fly between adventures.
More information is available at gunstock.com, or visitors can call 603-2934341 to plan their Gunstock Mountain Resort adventure this summer and fall.
Comfort for Every Home. mfort
Summer Adventures on the Lake: Exploring Sandbars & Picnic Islands
By Thomas P. Caldwell
Owning or renting a boat is one of the things that make life in the Lakes Region as satisfying as it is, and with 72 square miles of water to navigate, boaters on Lake Winnipesaukee have plenty of area to explore in seeking fulfillment. Sometimes that enjoyment takes the form of locating a nice sandbar and tossing the anchor overboard in shallow water or pulling up to an island for an impromptu picnic.
Sandbars are perfect places to take a break and enjoy a cold beverage, a leisurely swim, or simply do a little sunbathing. The popular sandbars also are great places to socialize with other boaters who have cast out their own an-
chors for the same reason.
Ask any boater and you’ll likely hear that Braun Bay in Moultonborough is the place to go for a party filled with music. Or, if you want to avoid the crowds and have your choice of anchorage spots in Braun Bay, get there early in the morning or on a weekday when it’s less crowded.
Braun Bay has a large sandbar and a soft, sandy bottom, with clear, shallow waters making it a safe place to anchor a boat for an extended break. The bay is surrounded by expansive views of the lake and mountains, making it an ideal location for a period of stress relief.
To get to Braun Bay, cross the Broads
from the Alton-Gilford area and head toward Long Island, keeping the island on your starboard (right) side. Approaching a bridge, the bay will appear on the port (left) side, and the sand bar is at the end of the bay on the left.
Other boaters may recommend a runner-up location, the sandbar at Patrician Shores in Meredith, lying between Center Harbor Bay and Two Mile Island. Generations of boaters have found it to be a quieter spot for relaxation, in part because of the restrictions imposed by the Patrician Shores development.
Yet another favorite spot (on another lake) is the sandbar next to Mosquito Bridge on Lake Winnisquam. It is not unusual to find a large number of boats anchored with people celebrating the day on the waves. The bridge also provides a convenient shelter if the weather should turn bad. (One boater posted on the Winnipesaukee Forum, “The party continues until the rain subsides.”
Anchoring the Boat
To safely anchor a boat at a sandbar, pilots are advised to approach in an idle and, while keeping the boat in water deep enough to float, ask a crew member to drop an anchor and let out the line, making sure to keep the line away from the propeller. Once the boat is in the right spot, with the water about waist deep, tie the line, turn off the engine, and trim the motor up so it does not hit the bottom during wave action. Place the stern anchor on the opposite side of the bow line and let the boat pivot so it’s facing away from the sandbar. Make sure the stern and bow lines are tight to keep the boat in place, and you’re ready to relax.
When departing, let out some forward anchor line and have crew members pull the boat back to be able to pull up the stern anchor. Use the bow anchor line to pull the boat forward, lower the engine, start the boat, and lift
• Exploring continued on page 29
Surprising Benefits of Shopping
A movement to “shop local” gained steam as more communities faced few options outside of big box stores. The shop local approach encourages consumers to patronize local businesses, and even those fully devoted to the cause might not realize how beneficial it can be. The following is a look at how communities and residents win with shopping local.
• Shopping local increases employment opportunities. Small businesses employ more workers in the United States than their larger counterparts, creating two out of every three new jobs, according to the Small Business Administration. In fact, small businesses account for 99.7 percent of all
employer firms in the United States. Buying locally means employment levels are either going to be stable or there will be more opportunities for local residents to work in the community.
• Shopping locally does not cost more money. Many people are under the assumption that buying locally is always more expensive. But this isn’t always the case. Local shops may offer a range of products from a particular region, which will reduce shipping costs, and that savings can be passed on to the consumer. Plus, small businesses may offer special discounts and promotions more readily than nationwide chains, so consumers can get more value for their money.
• Shopping local helps to keep money in the community. Patronizing local stores creates a recirculation of money in the community. Dollars spent in town raise the overall level of economic activity, which helps pay salaries and builds up the local tax base, says Michigan State University Center for Community and Economic Development.
• Shopping locally can help the planet. Environmentalists were among the first people to promote local consumption, as buying local can cut down on transportation-related pollution.
• Shopping local stretches beyond seasonal events. Certainly, there are a host of local merchants that do much of their business during key times of the year or specialize in seasonal produce. However, many local businesses also offer products year-round, and these local merchants include artisans, designers, musicians, and clothing retailers.
There are many reasons to increase reliance on local shops and vendors, who benefit communities and residents in myriad ways. ~Metro
