Wakesurfing’s Best Return to Winnipesaukee for Third Annual Open
The Winnipesaukee Wakesurf Open returns to Lake Winnipesaukee on Saturday, August 2, 2025 promising another unforgettable day of high-energy wakesurfing, summer fun, and lakeside community spirit. Now in its third year, the event has quickly become one of the most anticipated highlights of the Lakes Region’s summer calendar. Hosted at Melvin Village Marina from 10 am to 4 pm, the Open draws professional and amateur riders alike, alongside spectators who pack the shoreline, docks, and sandbar to soak in the action.
Riders will compete in three divisions — Open (Pro), Men’s Amateur, and Women’s Amateur — with a $4,000 cash purse on the line. Competitors will ride behind the legendary Nautique G23, performing tricks, spins, and creative lines for a panel of experienced judges. With only 50 competitor spots available this year, early registration is strongly encouraged. Spectators, however, are welcome to join at no cost, and are encouraged to arrive early to claim a good vantage point either on land or by boat.
The Winnipesaukee Wakesurf Open made a splash in its debut in 2023, introducing a new kind of summer event to the Lakes Region. Hosted by Melvin Village Marina and made possible by sponsors including Thresher Divers Surf Shop, MacCallum’s Boathouse, WakeWinni, Nautique, Ronix, Oakley, and others, the first Open featured 29 competitors in two divisions. The
event stood out for its impressive field of riders, its professional-level setup — complete with a judging panel led by 2018 Wakesurf World Champion Jon Ackerman — and its festive, welcoming atmosphere.
Spectators that year lined the shore and packed the sandbar, watching as riders showed off their best moves on a roughly 900-foot course marked by bright Nautique buoys. Each competitor got two runs behind the Nautique G23, helmed by WakeWinni’s Torin,
with just one fall allowed per run. Onshore, guests enjoyed displays of Nautique boats, a pop-up shop by Thresher Divers Surf Shop, and delicious eats from PEAKS Street Eats. Each rider left with a commemorative tech longsleeve shirt, and as the sun set, the 2023 Open was hailed as a resounding success that set the tone for future events.
In 2024, the event leveled up. Held on a hot and sunny August day following a hazy, rainy morning, the second annual Open drew 36 competitors and over 100 spectators. The Open Divi-
sion was packed with talent, with Reed Cole-Tucker taking first place for the second year in a row, followed closely by Ryan DiPietro and Sam Sparks. The Women’s Amateur Division saw Elizabeth Marvelle top the podium, with Jolene Arrighi and Jill Luby rounding out the top three. The Men’s Amateur crown went to Dan Koziak, ahead of Ellis Farrah and Keegan Kilkelly.
The 2024 Open introduced several new features that enhanced both the competitor and spectator experience. A 20-by-40-foot floating spectator barge, courtesy of Winnipesaukee Island Services, provided unbeatable views of the course, while a shuttle service made it easy for onshore guests to reach the barge. The event was also livestreamed for the first time, both on-site and on YouTube, bringing the action to wakesurf fans beyond the lake. On the beach, Red Bull’s event vehicle kept energy high with an upbeat playlist, while food trucks and a larger-than-ever boat display made it feel more like a festival than just a competition. Sponsors including Red Bull, Oakley, Phase 5, WakeWinni, and Nautique came together to provide a generous $5,700 cash purse and prize packs featuring surfboards, vests, and more.
One of the most popular elements of the Open is the “Ride with a Pro” session, which returns this year on Fri-
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Passing It On: A Forum on Property Transfer
Do you own a home or lakeside property that serves as a touchstone for family and friends, where memories are created, and traditions are handed down? Would you like to preserve this place you love for future family generations? As part of Squam Lakes Conservation Society’s effort to protect the unique quality and character of Squam, we offer Passing It On, a forum discussing strategies on how to transfer family property to subsequent generations. This valuable workshop is co-sponsored by the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance.
Three Squam property owners will address how their families have approached this important issue and offer their perspective on the challenges and solutions of transferring family property to subsequent generations. Their stories will illustrate how they communicated with family members, worked with professional advisors, and set up approaches that are designed to ensure successful transfers of their property. Hear about the limitations, triumphs, and
pitfalls they experienced.
The panel will consist of John Coolidge (Hoag Island) of Ashland, Molly Whitcomb (Hodges Cove) of Holderness, and Elizabeth Wolf (Owl Brook Farm & AllianceBernstein) of Ashland.
Reference materials will be available, and books on the topic will be on hand for purchase. Have your questions answered and share your own experiences regarding this timely topic.
Please join us on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 10 am to Noon at the Holderness Public Library, 866 US Route 3 in Holderness. Refreshments from Squam Lakes Marketplace will be served. Space is limited, so please visit www.foreversquam.org/events to register. For more information, call Squam Lakes Conservation Society at (603) 968-7900 or email denise@foreversquam.org. For more information on the New Hampshire Preservation Society and the important work they do, visit www.nhpreservation. org.
Things to see and Things to do
Brass Transit Brings the Music of Chicago to Castle in the Clouds
Get ready for a night of bold brass and timeless rock as Brass Transit – The Musical Legacy of Chicago takes the stage at Castle in the Clouds on Saturday, August 2, from 7:30 to 9 pm.
Celebrated for their high-energy horns, powerful vocals, and authentic renditions of Chicago’s greatest hits, Brass Transit delivers a concert experience that’s sure to thrill fans of the legendary band. From classic anthems to crowd-favorite ballads, this is a must-see for music lovers who enjoy their tunes big, brassy,
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day, August 1, from 11 am to 5 pm.
Registered competitors can reserve a 30-minute block to ride behind the Nautique G23 with Jeff McKee, Nautique team rider, and Donny Searle, a professional wakesurfer sponsored by Phase 5, Melvin Village Marina, and others. The session offers competitors a chance to tune their skills and get tips from some of the sport’s top names in an informal, fun setting. Riders interested in participating should call 603544-3583 to reserve a spot, as space is limited and fills quickly.
and full of soul.
Presented as part of the Great Waters Summer Concerts: Concerts in the Clouds Series, this event brings world-class talent to the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Tickets are selling fast—grab yours now and don’t miss the band that brings the full horn section and all the hits.
For tickets and more information, visit GreatWaters.org. Castle in the Clouds is located at 586 Ossipee Park Road.
As always, the sandbar in Melvin Bay provides one of the best seats in the house for boaters looking to catch the action up close.
The Winnipesaukee Wakesurf Open has already established itself as one of the Lakes Region’s premier summer events, showcasing elite talent, inspiring newcomers, and celebrating the vibrant lake lifestyle. Whether competing, spectating, or just soaking up the atmosphere, everyone is invited to be part of this growing tradition.
This year’s event is expected to continue the tradition of blending serious competition with a welcoming, community vibe. Spectators can enjoy sponsor displays, browse the latest Nautique gear, pick up Oakley sunglasses and apparel at the Thresher Divers Surf Shop pop-up, and refuel at PEAKS Street Eats and Shaved Ice.
Riders can register and find more details at: www.eventbrite. com/e/2025-winnipesaukee-wakesurf-open-tickets-1411217472449. For those who missed it the last two years, the message is clear: don’t miss it again. The 2025 Winnipesaukee Wakesurf Open promises to be bigger, better, and even more memorable. Grab your board — or just your enthusiasm — and join the fun on August 2.
Explore Nature on Chocorua Lake with Two Guided Paddles This August
On Friday, August 1, from 10 am to 12 pm, join staff from the Loon Preservation Committee for a guided paddle centered on the Common Loon, one of New Hampshire’s most iconic and mysterious birds. Participants will learn about loon behavior—why chicks ride on their parents’ backs, what those haunting calls mean, and how we can help protect these sensitive species. The paddle will offer close observation of the resident loons on Chocorua Lake, with insights into their history and the conservation efforts being carried out across the state to ensure their survival. The trip is free and open to the public, but limited to 15 participants to
preserve a small-group experience. Advance registration is required at www.chocorualake.org/ events.
On Wednesday, August 6, from 8 to 11 am, CLC Land Steward Galen Kilbride will lead a relaxed, informative paddle exploring the shoreline ecology of Chocorua Lake. Participants will navigate quiet coves and vegetated buffers, looking closely at the insects, amphibians, reptiles, and aquatic plants that thrive in these unique environments.
This outing also includes an important conservation component: using Weed Watcher Kits from the NH Department of Environmen-
tal Services, the group will look for signs of invasive species and learn how to identify both native and non-native aquatic plants. For those wanting a head start, a recorded webinar with Amy Smagula of NH DES on “Protecting Our Lakes from Aquatic Invasive Species” is available at chocorualake.org/gallery.
This paddle is free for CLC members, with a $10 suggested donation for non-members. Space is limited, and advance registration is required at www.chocorualake.org/ events.
For both paddles, participants must bring their own canoe or kayak, paddles, and life jackets. Please
also bring sun and bug protection, a hat, water, snacks, and binoculars if you wish.
The Loon Preservation Committee works to restore and maintain healthy populations of loons across New Hampshire and promote broader environmental stewardship (www.loon.org).
The Chocorua Lake Conservancy is a nonprofit land trust that offers educational and recreational programs year-round to encourage connection with the land, lake, and wildlife. Learn more at www.chocorualake. org and follow CLC on Facebook and Instagram.
Who Knew? Benedict Arnold Was a Patriot Before He Was a Traitor!
“We all ‘know’ Benedict Arnold, the traitor of 1780,” says Bow historian George Morrison, “but this ignores his many exploits of 1775, 1776, and 1777, when the dream of independence was its most fragile.”
Morrison will present a program focusing on the “patriot” side of General Arnold as the next offering in the Meredith Historical Society’s 2025 Speaker Series, set for August 5 at 7 pm.
The program, titled “Benedict Arnold: Patriot (and Traitor),” is made possible through a generous grant from New Hampshire Humanities.
“Recalled mainly as a traitor for his 1780 defection, Arnold had risked his life and fortune for American freedom in courageous exploits between 1775 and 1778,” notes Morrison. “As an officer in the Continental Army, Arnold ably led American forces in desperate
circumstances against impossible odds, in a blinding snowstorm, through a howling wilderness, and against the extraordinary might of the Royal Navy.”
Arnold, says Morrison, was one of the young United States’ most promising officers prior to 1780, citing as proof an earlier letter between George Washington and Philip Schuyler. “The merit of that officer is certainly great,” Washington wrote of Arnold. “I heartily wish that fortune may distinguish him … He will do everything which prudence and valor will suggest.”
“Recruits from Meredith were among those serving under Benedict Arnold’s command,” said Historical Society President John Hopper. “It will be fascinating as we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence to learn how their service fits into the con-
text of Arnold’s exploits.”
George Morrison earned a B.A. in history at the University of New Hampshire. He served for 27 years as a high school teacher. A longtime researcher of unpublished primary sources, he has contributed to the work of numerous aviation historians and artists in several countries. He is a lifelong photographer, historian, and motorcyclist.
Morrison’s program on Benedict Arnold will be presented Tuesday, August 5, at the Meredith Community Center, 1 Circle Drive. Doors
open at 6:30 pm for light refreshments and socializing. The program begins at 7 pm. All programs of the Society are free, and all are welcome.
For a complete schedule of the Society’s 2025 Speaker Series, visit their website at www.meredithhistoricalsocietynh.org. Programs of the Meredith Historical Society help fulfill its mission to preserve, develop, and promote the knowledge and awareness of Meredith’s unique history.
OHRV Safety a Priority for Fish and Game Department This Summer
New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers are preparing a proactive strategy of law enforcement initiatives geared toward encouraging safe and responsible individual riding practices for this summer and beyond. With the majority of trails now open in the state, riders should be sure to understand all the rules and regulations associated with safe and responsible OHRV operation. They are also asked to be respectful toward residents and landowners, to stay on marked trails, to operate within their skill level, to wear protective equipment, including helmets, and to keep both hands on handlebars.
“Operating an OHRV on private property without landowner permission
is by far the most common complaint received by Fish and Game regarding OHRVs,” said Captain Mike Eastman, who coordinates OHRV safety education and enforcement for Fish and Game’s Law Enforcement Division. “Landowner grievances are where we will be focusing a great deal of our enforcement efforts as the riding season progresses.”
Unlike other outdoor activities, such as hunting or hiking, where private
land must be posted to keep people off, riders of motorized vehicles must have written landowner permission to operate, whether the land is posted or not. Local OHRV clubs have been able to establish marked, designated trails through dedicated work with individual property owners to procure the necessary landowner agreements to establish trail systems. In addition to operating off designated trails, noise from illegally modified exhaust and excessive speed are the most frequent complaints received from property owners.
“Fish and Game is also very focused throughout the year on educating the public about the principles of safe OHRV operation,” said Eastman. “Operating an OHRV is all about personal responsibility, and accidents are usually caused by people driving carelessly, too fast, beyond their skill level, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. To help prevent accidents, riders should always anticipate other opera-
tors on the trail, stay to the right side of the route, and maintain a safe following distance from the machine in front of them. It may seem like common sense, but wearing a helmet and keeping both hands on the handlebars and in control of the machine are crucial to a safe and exciting ride.”
In addition to enhanced enforcement, safety education is another way that Fish and Game’s Law Enforcement Division works to foster responsible OHRV operation. Each year, volunteer OHRV safety instructors educate over 1,000 students regarding OHRV rules, regulations, and responsible and safe operation. State law requires all operators 12 years of age and over to have either a valid motor vehicle driver’s license or have successfully completed an approved OHRV safety education class in order to operate off their own property. “We strongly recommend that all riders who purchase or rent an OHRV take a safety class to help reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage,” said Eastman.
For safety education classes, safe riding tips, information on where to ride, laws, and registration requirements, visit www.wildnh.com/ohrv/ safety-facts.html
Wolfeboro Area Meals on Wheels Celebrates 50 Years of Operation
Wolfeboro Area Meals on Wheels (WAMOW) is proudly celebrating 50 years of operation in 2025. The program was borne out of Huggins Hospital in the early 1970s when local physicians saw a need in the community to serve individuals with an inability to secure and prepare food. Today, WAMOW serves freshly prepared, nutritious meals to as many as 80 participants each day, five days per week across the Wolfeboro, Tuftonboro, and Brookfield communities.
“Home-delivered meals are often the first service accessed by older adults, and proper nutrition improves or maintains an individual’s health. Having nutritious, freshly-prepared meals helps our neighbors remain in their
homes longer,” states Haley Mathis, WAMOW’s Program Director. “In addition, the arrival of the volunteer driver provides critical social interaction and ensures each participant has someone to check on their well-being during daytime hours. This is a critical safety net, especially for rurally located and isolated elderly.”
“For the past 50 years, Huggins Hospital has been honored to support Meals on Wheels and witness the profound impact they’ve had on our community,” says Monika O’Clair, Huggins Hospital’s Chief Strategy Officer.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Meals on Wheels for this incredible milestone and say ‘thank you’ for the compassion, dedication, and
tireless service they provide. We look forward to the next 50 years of making a difference – together.”
“As the current Board President, I am constantly amazed by the dedication that our volunteers, staff and my fellow Board members demonstrate to the organization in order to provide a crucial service to the people in our community. Thank you to all who have selflessly given their time, energy or donated money so we can continue our mission,” says Kurt Roessler, Board President.
To celebrate this 50-year milestone, WAMOW has a series of events planned throughout the year, including: Hunter’s Shop ‘n Save hosting
WAMOW on the morning of Saturday, August 9; Huggins Hospital hosting a breakfast buffet on August 23, Wolfeboro Food Co-op is participating in a “Round Up” program this summer/fall, and Wolfeboro’s Festival of Trees in December.
WAMOW proudly operates without the assistance of state or federal funding. The success of the program has been driven by individuals and organizations in the local community who generously support the mission to nourish, enrich, and strengthen the lives of individuals in our community who face challenges preparing meals.
Squam Canoe Classic: Bass Fishing Tournament
The Squam Lakes Association (SLA) is hosting its eleventh annual bass fishing tournament on Saturday, August 16, from 8 am - 1 pm. This is a motorless event open to any vessel that’s completely human-powered. There is no registration fee for this tournament, but be sure to pick up your registration packet at the SLA headquarters for the tournament rules, a sticker gunnel ruler, log sheet, and several lead-free jigs to try out. Registration is capped at 20 boats, so make sure to register early. For more information or to sign up
for this tournament, visit the SLA website (squamlakes.org) or contact the SLA directly (603-968-7336).
The Squam Lakes Association is dedicated to conserving for public benefit the natural beauty, peaceful character, and resources of the watershed. In collaboration with local and state partners, the SLA promotes the protection, careful use, and shared enjoyment of the lakes, mountains, forests, open spaces, and wildlife of the Squam Lakes Region.
‘Cue The Grill
Berry Good Bites: Summer Salads that Steal the Show
By Chef Kelly Ross
Hello again, foodie friends, it’s that time again. Today is all about fabulous summer salads, specializing in some great seasonal goodies. As much as I do love a good salad, when fresh fruit and/or berries are also involved, I’m all over it. Each of these salads has its own delicious homemade dressing that many of you will likely make on a regular basis. With that in mind, when you
make any of these for the first time, doubling up on the dressing is never a bad idea. Let’s start building some salads!
This large strawberry salad is colorful and delicious! It’s made with arugula, strawberries, goat cheese, sunflower seeds, and balsamic vinaigrette. Like all of the salads today, refreshing is one of the key words to describe it, and balsamic dressing rocks. You can plan on this getting
you 4 large or 8 side salads. Although there is no protein on this or any of these today, adding some seasoned grilled chicken or shrimp is never a bad call. Plan for 20-25 minutes to make.
Strawberry Arugula Salad
For The Salad
8 oz arugula
½ cup chopped fresh basil
1 lb strawberries, thinly sliced
¾ cup finely chopped red onion
4 oz crumbled goat cheese or feta
1-2 ripe avocados, diced
½ cup roasted and salted sunflower seeds
½ cup halved and thinly sliced radish
1 medium jalapeño, very thinly sliced, optional
For The Dressing
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
¾ tbsp pure maple syrup
1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
Pinch of fine sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To assemble the salad, on a large serving platter or in a large
serving bowl, layer the ingredients as listed. In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients and whisk until fully blended. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. The dressing should be nice and tangy, but you can add more maple syrup for balance if desired. When you’re ready to serve the salad, drizzle vinaigrette on top, and toss it to combine. Serve promptly. If you’re planning to have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately and toss before serving.
This time we give mangos a starring role combined with my favorite dressing of the day, which is all about peanuts. A green salad bursting with fresh Thai flavors and bright colors, it’s great on its own or as an accompaniment to many main dishes. As I said, you can always add a protein or many other veggies or fruit, for that matter. This will also get 4 dinner salads or 8 side salads, and plan on this taking you 20 minutes to put together.
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Thai Mango Salad with Peanut Dressing
For The Salad
2 heads butter leaf lettuce, about 10 oz, or your greens of choice, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced into 1-inch-long pieces
4 ripe honey or champagne mangos, diced
1 cup thinly sliced scallions, both green and white parts
2/3 cup roughly chopped roasted peanuts
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1-2 medium jalapeños, seeds and membranes removed, finely chopped, optional
For The Peanut Dressing
½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 tsp pure maple syrup
4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
½ cup lime juice, about 3-4 limes
To assemble the salad, simply combine all the salad ingredients in a large serving bowl. To prepare the dressing, combine everything but the lime juice in a small bowl. Use a small whisk or fork to stir until blended. Whisk in about half of the lime juice until creamy, then whisk
in the rest. Continue whisking until the mixture is fully blended and nicely creamy. Taste, and if it tastes too tart, add an additional tsp or so of maple syrup. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss it to combine. Serve immediately.
Our third salad today uses mixed spring greens that are topped with dried cranberries, sliced apples, pecans, and goat cheese, finished with a yummy apple cider vinaigrette dressing. The combo of flavors plus the great crunch of apples makes for a very fun and scrumptious salad. This is arguably the quickest of the day to put together, as you can have this made in 10 minutes, and it’s so darn good. This will get you an easy 4 dinner salads or more like 8 as a side salad.
Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Pecans
For The Salad
7-8 oz, about 7 cups, spring greens salad blend
3-4 large Granny Smith apples
¾ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped raw pecans
4 oz chilled goat cheese, crumbled, about 1 cup
For The Apple Cider Vinaigrette
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 tsp honey
2-3 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp fine sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
In a medium-sized skillet, toast the pecans until warm and fragrant. Transfer them to a small bowl to cool. For the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard and salt until well blended. Season to taste with pepper. Just before serving, chop the apple into thin, bite-sized pieces. Place your greens in a large serving bowl. Top with sliced apple, dried cranberries and toasted pecans. Use a fork to crumble the goat cheese over the salad. Drizzle the salad with just enough dressing to lightly coat the leaves once tossed. You probably won’t need all of it. Gently toss to mix all the ingredients and serve.
Peaches, avocados, blueberries, almonds, and crumble bleu cheese star in this gem of a salad that is completed with another amazing dressing, a lemon dressing to be exact. I like to grill the peaches before topping the salad with them, but that is entirely up to you. Like most salads, making
them is a cakewalk, and the payoff is a bargain, as this one is again chock full of great flavors. Plan for this to get you 4 main dish salads or 8 side salads. This one takes closer to a half-hour, a few minutes less if you don’t grill the peaches.
Peach and Avocado Green Salad
For The Salad
½ small red onion, very thinly sliced, about ½ cup
10-12 oz baby arugula, 1214 lightly packed cups
3 medium ripe peaches or nectarines, pitted and thinly sliced, peels on or off, about 3 cups
3 medium ripe avocados, diced, about 3 cups
2 ½ cups fresh blueberries
⅔ cup unsalted sliced almonds
⅔ cup crumbled mild blue cheese, about 3 ½ oz
For The Lemon Dressing
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon
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juice from 1-2 lemons
½ tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
¾ tsp kosher salt or a heaping ¼ tsp fine sea salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
Place the red onion in a small bowl and cover with water. Let it rest while you prepare the rest of the salad. This will keep the flavor of the onion but remove some of the harsh after-bite so if you prefer the onion as they are, skip this step. Place the arugula in a large serving bowl. To toast the almonds, place them in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring frequently, being careful not to burn, until the almonds are fragrant and starting to turn golden on the edges, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside. For the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients. If grilling the peaches, cut them in half and remove the pits, then place cut side down on a clean, well-oiled grill on medium-high
heat for 3-5 minutes and then gently turn over and grill for a few more minutes. Once cool enough to handle, slice into strips/wedges. Drizzle half of the dressing over the greens, then toss to coat. Drain the red onion, then scatter it over the arugula. Top with the peaches, avocados, blueberries, almonds, and cheese. Just before serving, drizzle on a bit more dressing and give it a final, gentle toss to combine. Enjoy, with additional dressing as desired.
Again, this week, I end with my favorite of the day. Somewhat like the last one, grilled fruit is my suggestion, but not required. Grilled pears are a wonderful thing for those who have not tried them before. Besides the pears, this “so good” salad has dates, walnuts, raspberries, and more crumble bleu cheese and is served over a bed of red leaf or spring mix lettuce. There are so many great flavors in the mix on this one, like all of these today, but something about pears on a salad that makes it superior to most. The cherry on the sundae is the Dijon vinaigrette dressing
that accompanies it. Plan for 20 minutes for this if grilling the pears, more like 15 if not. This again will get you 4 dinner-size salads or 8 side salads.
The Ultimate Pear Salad
For The Dijon Vinaigrette
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tbsp white wine vinegar
2 tsp honey or pure maple syrup
2 tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of salt
Several twists of freshly ground black pepper
For The Salad
¾ cup chopped raw walnuts
10 oz red leaf lettuce, torn into small pieces, about 8 cups, or spring mix
10 bagged dates, pitted and sliced thin
4-5 ripe Bartlett pears, unpeeled and sliced into ¼-inch thick pieces
1 ½ - 2 cups fresh raspberries
⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese
To make the dressing, in a small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients and whisk to combine. Taste
and adjust if necessary. I usually add some more mustard and another pinch of salt. For the salad, first, toast the walnuts in a medium skillet over medium heat until fragrant, stirring often, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside. Cut the pears in half, cut out the core, and place them on a medium-high, well-oiled grill and cook for 3 minutes or so on each side. Once off the grill and cool enough to handle, slice them into strips or chunks. In a medium serving bowl, combine the greens, dates, pears, raspberries, and toasted walnuts. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle in some of the dressing and toss until the greens are lightly coated, adding more if necessary. Serve in individual bowls with blue cheese sprinkled on top and additional dressing on the side if needed.
That’s our day of awesome summer salads, my friends. I hope you all enjoy these. Until next week, keep those taste buds of yours smiling, and if you care to touch base with any questions or feedback, reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com.
Through July, Exhibit of Antique Toys, runs for month of July, Clark Museum, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org
Through July 27, Floral exhibit, floral watercolors, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org
Through Aug. 2, Fully Committed, one-man show by Robert Hooghkirk, Winnipesaukee Playhouse, 33 Footlight Circle, Meredith, 603-279-0333, www.winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org.
Through Aug. 29, Doc’s Harness Horse History Tour, Tues. & Fridays, 11 a.m., Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-3237591, www.remickmuseum.org
Through Aug. 30, Historic Murals Tour, 11 a.m., Wed.-Sat., Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org
Through Aug. 30, Medical History Tour, 1 p.m., Tues.-Sat., Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org
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
Through Sept. 9, The Artwork of James Belcher, Upper Exhibit Gallery, Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775.
July 28, Music Night on the Carriage House Terrace, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Cindy Duchin and Steve Hayden perform, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
July 28, Story Time & Craft Hour at Castle in the Clouds, 11 a.m., Picnic Pavilion by Shannon Pond, free family event, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration encouraged: www.castleintheclouds.org.
July 29, Chamber Music, classical music concert, 7 p.m., Plymouth State University, Silver Center for the Arts, Plymouth, program of NH Music Festival, 603-238-9007, info@nhmf.org.
July 29, Into the Deep, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., paint layering, pre-register: ArtWorks CCAC, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, 603-323-8041, http://www.chocoruaartworks.com/.
July 29, John Lodge of the Moody Blues, 7:30 p.m., Monkey Movie House & Performance Center, 39 S. Main St., Plymouth, 603-536-2551, www.flyingmonkeynh.com
July 29, Lecture Series, Helen Fry – Women in Intelligence, speaker Ron Janowski, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
July 29, Music Night on the Carriage House Terrace, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Charles A Music performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-4765900, www.castleintheclouds.org
July 29, Navigation by App in the Wilds, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, by Chocorua Lake Conservancy, www.chocorualake.org., pre-register: 603-323-6252.
July 29, Newfound Nature Series – Dr. Mirka Zapletal, NLRA, 7 – 8:15 p.m., Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 N. Shore Rd., Hebron, by Newfound Lake Region Assoc. & NH Audubon Society, free, 603-744-8689, www.newfoundlake.org
July 29-Sept. 4, Americans and the Holocaust, Meredith Public Library, 91 Main St., Meredith, 603-279-4303, www.meredithlibrary.org
July 30, Adult Craft: Terrarium Succulents, 6 – 8 p.m., adult program, Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775.
July 30, An Evening of Vintage Zither Music with Katherine Rhoda, 7 p.m., fundraiser for Schoolhouse Repair, Clark Museum Barn, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org
July 30, Kirkwood Gardens Guided Tour, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., teen & adult program, take a garden tour with lead horticulturalist Emma Erler, discover garden’s history and see what is blooming, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, register: 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org
July 30, Lecture: Finding Fishers in the Granite State, Tracking Population and Survival of NH’S Elusive Mescarnivore, 6 – 7 p.m., Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, tickets required: 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org.
July 30, Music Night on the Carriage House Terrace, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Tim Hazelton performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
July 30, Orchestra in Action, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., free admission, NH Music Festival performs at PSU Silver Center for the Arts, 114 Main St., Plymouth, http://nhmf.org
July 30, Polliwogs Summer, 9 – 11:15 a.m., pre-K accompanied by an adult, Prescott
July 30, Retro Slide Show, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., slides taken in Tamworth 50 years ago, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org
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DRINK UP!
July 30, The Muppets movie, 6 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center, 39 S. Main St., Plymouth, 603-536-2551, www.flyingmonkeynh.com
July 30 & 31, Introduction to Stained Glass with instructor Kathryn Field, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, League of NH Craftsmen, 32 Main St., Center Sandwich, pre-registration: 603-284-6831, www.centersandwich.nhcrafts.org.
July 30-Aug. 8, My Fair Lady, Interlakes Theatre, 1 Laker Lane, Meredith, 603-7076035, www.interlakestheatre.com.
July 31, Ancient Elephants; Woolly Mammoths of New England with Susie Spikol, 7 p.m., Loon Center, 7 p.m., 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-476-5666, www.loon.org
July 31, Club Soda Band, 6:30 – 8 p.m., free concert, Kelley Park, 41 N. Main St., Bristol, 603-744-3354.
July 31, Guided Hike: Oak Ridge Interpretive, Castle in the Clouds, 10 a.m. – noon, hiking of Oak Ridge trail, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
July 31, Hundreds of Beavers, the movie, 6 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center, 39 S. Main St., Plymouth, 603-536-2551, www.flyingmonkeynh. com
July 31, Intro to Mosaics with instructor Cindy Stanton, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, League of NH Craftsmen, 32 Main St., Center Sandwich, pre-registration: 603-284-6831, www.centersandwich.nhcrafts.org.
July 31, Jim Tyrrell, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
July 31, Lindsay & Her Puppet Pals, 2 – 3 p.m., Leavitt Park House, 334 Elm St., Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775.
July 31, Open the Gates, 7 p.m., NH Music Festival, Silver Center for the Arts, Plymouth State University, Plymouth, info@nhmf.org
July 31, Watercolor Play, kids: 9 - 10:30 a.m.; adults: 10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Holderness Town Hall, 1089 US Rt. 3, Holderness, pre-registration: 603-986-3700, recreation@holderness-nh.gov, www.holderness-nh.gov
July 31, Wooden Nickels Band, 6:30 p.m., free outdoor concert, 19 Mile Beach, Tuftonboro, hosted by Tuftonboro Parks & Recreation, info.: www.tuftonboronh.gov.
Aug. Exhibit, Antique Quilts and Clothing, runs for month, Clark Museum, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org
Aug. 1, April Cushman, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
Aug. 1, Katie Dobbins, concert, 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.
Aug. 1, Lucknow Garden Tour, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: www.castleintheclouds. org.
Aug. 1, Stories on the Farm, Thank You Sarah! by Laurie Anderson, 10 – 11:30 a.m., activity for all ages, RSVP: 603-652-7840, nhfarmmuseum.info@gmail.com, NH Farm Museum, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton.
Aug. 1, Summer Band Concert, 6 p.m. rehearsal, 7 p.m. show, Center Harbor Town Band, in the gazebo overlooking the water, Center Harbor, free, bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating, www.centerharbortownband.com.
Aug. 2, Antique and Vintage Fair, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., in case of rain fair is cancelled, Clark Museum, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org
Aug. 2, Art on the Lawn, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., art making for all ages, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Aug. 2, Beginner Leather for Young Adults, ages 12-17, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., with artist Molly Grant, at her studio, League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920, http://meredith.nhcrafts.org/ classes/
Aug. 2, Brass Transit, 7:30 – 9 p.m., Concerts in the Clouds, 603-569-7710, www. greatwaters.org.
Aug. 2, Dakota Smart, music, 6 – 10 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
Aug. 2, Floydian Trip – Pink Floyd Tribute, 8 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, 603-519-7506, www.lakeportopera.com
Aug. 2, Friends Used Book Sale, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Aug. 2, Hike Upper and Lower Bridle Paths, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: www.castleintheclouds.org.
Aug. 2, Jimmy and the Jesters, 7 – 9 p.m., Friends of Wolfeboro Bandstand, Cate Park, Main St., Wolfeboro, www.wolfeborobandstand.org.
Aug. 2, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark, 7 p.m., The Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.
What’s UP
Aug. 2, Painting Plein Air, 9 – 11 a.m., age 16 & up, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.
Aug. 2, Summer Music Series, Lauren Smoken, 2 – 5 p.m., Barrel Bar & Grille, Gunstock, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com
Aug. 2, Tandem Chance, 6 p.m., free concert, Hebron Gazebo, Hebron Village, 603744-3335.
Aug. 2, The Great Dictator, Meredith Public Library, 91 Main St., Meredith, 603-2794303, www.meredithlibrary.org., satire film about Hitler.
Aug. 2, The Revolutionists, 7 - 9 p.m., free, bring a lawn chair for seating, Alton Bay Bandstand, Rt. 11, Alton Parks & Recreation, 603-875-0109, parksrec-asst@alton. nh.gov.
Aug. 2, Woven Rocks with Jean Reed, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, sign-up required by July 29: 603-279-7920, Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920, http://meredith.nhcrafts. org/classes/
Aug. 3, Butterfly Census, 10:30 a.m. – noon, collect data and learn about butterflies with naturalists, Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-5410, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Aug. 3, Music on the Green with Twangtown Paramours, 4 - 5 p.m., free, takes place outdoors at Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, 603-783-9511, www. shakers.org
Aug. 3, Nicole Atkins, 7 pm, Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323-6169, www.thefarmstand.net
Aug. 3 Solar Gazing, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: www.castleintheclouds.org.
Aug. 3, Timbear Daley, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
Aug. 4, Story Time & Craft Hour at Castle in the Clouds, 11 a.m., Picnic Pavilion by Shannon Pond, free family event, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration encouraged: www.castleintheclouds.org.
Aug. 5, Benedict Arnold, Patriot (and Traitor), 7 p.m., presenter: George Morrison, free, Community Center, 1 Circle Drive, Meredith, presented by Meredith Historical Society, 603-279-1190, www.meredithhistoricalsocietynh.org.
Aug. 5, Lecture Series, Shannon McKenna Schmidt – The First Lady of World War II, speaker: Schmidt, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org.
Aug. 6, Alton Market on Main, farmers market, noon – 3 p.m., 115 Main St., Alton, complete schedule: www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-519-8264.
Aug. 6, Birthday Bash for the Animals, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., all ages welcome, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, register: 603-9687194, www.nhnature.org
Aug. 6, Chocorua Lake Ecology Paddle, 8 – 11 a.m., find flora and fauna, Chocorua Lake Conservancy, 603-323-6252, www.chocorualake.org.
Aug. 6, Author Visit, with Amy Makechnie, Gafney Library, 14 High St, Sanbornville, 603-522-3401, www.gafneylibrary.org.
Aug. 6, Music on the Lawn, Dexter Harding, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., on the lawn of Cook Memorial Library, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Aug. 6, Polliwogs Summer, 9 – 11:15 a.m., pre-K accompanied by an adult, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm. org., pre-registration required: 603-366-5695.
Aug. 6, RDMTION, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center, 39 S. Main St., Plymouth, 603-536-2551, www.flyingmonkeynh.com
Aug. 6, The Hidden History of Lake Winnipesaukee, speaker: Glenn Knoblock, 7 p.m., Lake Winnipesaukee Museum, 503 Endicott St. North, Laconia, free, pre-registration required: 603-366-5950, www.lwhs.us
Aug. 7, Artisans on the Green, one day arts & crafts fair, Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, League of NH Craftsmen, 32 Main St., Center Sandwich, info.: 603-284-6831, www.centersandwich.nhcrafts.org.
Aug. 7, Jim Tyrrell, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net
Aug. 7, Meatloaf – the Ultimate Tribute, 7:30 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, 603-519-7506, www.lakeportopera.com
Aug. 7, Mount Washington Spirit Gallery, 6 – 8:30 p.m., mediums Karen Tatro and Scott Allen, M/S Mount Washington, 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, 603-366-5530, www.cruisenh.com
Aug. 7, North River Music, 6:30 p.m., free outdoor concert, 19 Mile Beach, Tuftonboro, hosted by Tuftonboro Parks & Recreation, info.: www.tuftonboronh.gov.
Aug. 7, Peregrine Falcon Recovery in New Hampshire with Chris Martin, 7 p.m., Loon Center,183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-476-5666, www.loon.org Aug. 7, Red Daisy Revival, 6:30 – 8 p.m., free concert, Kelley Park, 41 N. Main St., Bristol, 603-744-3354.
ONGOING
Alton Market on Main, farmers market, every other Wed., through Oct. 1, noon – 3 p.m., 115 Main St., Alton, complete schedule: www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-5198264.
ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, gallery, workshops & events, open year round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Barnstead Farmers Market, Saturdays, 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.
Bingo, Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 5 p.m., Moultonborough Lions Club, Town Function Hall, Old Rt. 109, Moultonborough.
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.
Bristol Open Air Market, Saturdays until Oct. 11, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Mill Stream Park, 507 Lake St., Bristol, www.BristolNH.gov.
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.
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, nature trails open for hiking, 740 Mt. Israel Rd., Center Sandwich, 603-284-6428, www.chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com.
Chocorua Lake Basin View Lot, mountain views, benches for seating, free, www. chocorualake.org.
Coffee Hour, 10 – 11 a.m., coffee, tea and snacks, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, Effingham.lib.nh.us.
Cruise Night, 5 – 7 p.m., Thursdays, 50/50 raffle, prizes, Tilt’n Diner, 61 Laconia Rd., Tilton, 603-455-7631.
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
Franklin Farmers Market, Thursdays from 3 – 6 p.m., through Sept. 11, Marceau Park, Central St., Franklin, 603-934-2118, email: franklinmarketinfo@gmail.com.
First Fridays Receptions, June through Dec., 5-7 p.m., refreshments, conversation & art, ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, 603-3238041, 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.
Lake Winnipesaukee Museum, displays of historic Lakes Region artifacts and information, souvenir postcards, plates, paperweights, memorabilia, summer camp historical information and more, lecture series, open Wed. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., through Columbus Day weekend, 503 Endicott St. North, Laconia, 603-366-5950, www.lwhs.us
Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, youth and adult sailing lessons, sailing competitions, Gilford, www.lwsa.org, 603-589-1177.
Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org
Live Music, Friday nights, 5 – 8 p.m., free, Mill Falls Marketplace brick courtyard, 312 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, www.millfalls.com
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 les, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www. ossipee.recdesk.com.
Meredith Community Market, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., 1 Burton Drive, off Rt. 104, Meredith, free admission, 603-409-2871, www.meredithcommunitymarket.com.
Model Yachting, 1 – 3 p.m., Tues. & Thurs., Back Bay Skippers at Bridge Falls Path, Wolfeboro, watch radio controlled model yachts, NH Boat Museum, schedule: www. nhbm.org.
What’s UP
Molly the Trolley, take tours/rides of Wolfeboro area aboard the fun trolley, info/schedules: 603-569-1080, 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, 603-366-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 Classic Car Show, every Friday through Labor Day, 5 – 8 p.m., free, Village Local Kitchen, 825 Lake St., Bristol, www.ttccreg.org.
Newfound Lake Eco-Tours, informative/scientific tours of Newfound Lake, through mid-Sept., Newfound Lake Association, www.newfoundlake.org, call for hours/dates of operation: 603-744-8689.
Ossipee Historical Society Grant Hall Museum, open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – noon until Sept. 30, 52 Rt. 16B, between First Congregational Church buildings, lmsween@roadrunner.com.
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.
Sailing Lessons, youth & adult, Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, 25 Davis Rd., Gilford, schedule/pre-register: 603-589-1177, www.lwsa.org
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: 603-968-7194.
Squam Lakes Association, programs, hikes, 534 US Rt. 3, Holderness, 603-968-7336, www.squamlakes.org
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, exhibits, nature trails, events, cruises, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, 603-968-7194, 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.
Wright Museum of WWII, exhibits and lectures on life on the home front during WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
Jimmy And the Jesters Playing Wolfeboro Bandstand
The Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand are excited to welcome Jimmy and the Jesters to the summer concert series in Cate Park to kick off the second month of free concerts on Saturday, August 2.
Jimmy and the Jesters will be taking to the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand in downtown Wolfeboro as part of the free Saturday night concert series after making their debut during last year’s summer season.
Jimmy and the Jesters features Jimmy “Mr. Rock and Roll” Merrick on lead vocals and guitar, Peter “WildMan” Previte on vocals and keyboard, Scotty “The Horn” Groleau on sax, and Steve “Gio” Giotis on vocals and drums.
The band specializes in oldies rock,
classic country, and musical mayhem, and always advises their audience to bring along their dancing shoes.
Jimmy and the Jesters will take to the bandstand on Saturday, August 2, for a 7 pm concert in Cate Park. The Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand concert series is presented free of charge each Saturday night in the bandstand in Cate Park, with each concert lasting two hours with a short intermission. At intermission, there will be a pass-the-bucket offering collected to help support the free concert series.
In the event of bad weather, check the Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand Facebook page, and signs will also be posted at the entrance to the park.
Dine In or Pig Out
Rock My Soul Brings Soulful Gospel Energy to Village Players Theatre
Get ready for an uplifting night of music as Rock My Soul takes the stage at the Village Players Theatre in Wolfeboro on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 7:30 pm. Known for their dynamic blend of gospel, R&B, pop, soul, and doo-wop, Rock My Soul is a critically acclaimed ensemble that has captivated audiences throughout New England with powerful vocals and infectious energy.
Formed in 2004, Rock My Soul has become a standout group in the region’s music scene, performing in venues across New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts. Their performances are not only musically inspiring but also rich in storytelling, offering audiences a deeper connection to the roots and spirit of gospel music.
The August 8 concert is presented by the Village Players Theatre, a beloved community arts venue located in a beautifully restored 1880s building in downtown Wolfeboro. Known for hosting a diverse range of theatrical productions and musical performances, the theater provides an intimate setting with modern lighting, air conditioning, and tiered seating.
Tickets for the concert can be purchased at new-hampshire.evvnt.events/ events/rock-my-soul-at-the-villageplayers-wolfeboro-8-8-2025.
For more information about the event or the Village Players Theatre, please contact the theater directly or visit www.village-players.com.
‘Artisans on the Green’ Event at Sandwich Home Industries, Fine Craft Gallery
The Sandwich Home Industries, a proud member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, is pleased to announce the return of its highly anticipated annual event, “Artisans on the Green.” Held during the Town of Sandwich’s Old Home Week, this event showcases the vibrant talent of New Hampshire artists and craftspeople, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with makers and purchase high-quality, handcrafted goods. The event is scheduled for Thursday, August 7, from 10 am to 4 pm, in Center Sandwich on the Quimby Green, in front of the Gallery.
The event, sponsored by Meredith Village Savings Bank, serves as a celebration of the Sandwich Home Industries’ educational mission and its commitment to the local art and craft community. Artisans representing a wide range of media—including fiber, glass, clay, metal, wood, paint, jewel-
ry, and photography—will gather on the Town Green to demonstrate their skills, discuss their processes, and sell their work.
“Artisans on the Green” provides a platform for the public to connect directly with the creators, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship inherent in each piece. This free, day-long event welcomes all members of the community and visitors to the area.
The event will proceed rain or shine. Free parking is available, and lunch will be offered by the Sandwich Women’s Club, with proceeds supporting their annual education scholarship.
The Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery is open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October. The gallery is housed in a historic post-and-beam structure located in the center of town, at 32 Main Street, Center Sandwich.
Good Food, Grown Nearby: Discovering the Heart of Farm to Table
By Mark Okrant
I have a friend—we’ll call him Frank—who has been losing weight so fast that he’s threatening to disappear. Before you ask—NO—Frank is not on some fad diet, nor is he seriously ill. My friend is simply a victim of what we’ll call “food paranoia”. He’s convinced that everything he eats is filled with preservatives and pesticides. So, to avoid being slowly killed by those threats, he’s doing it to himself. Little does Frank know that a solution to his woes lies very close at hand, in the form of the numerous farm-to-table events available here in New Hampshire. What do we mean by the term farm to table? Farm to table refers to events that emphasize sourcing food directly from local farms and producers, while bypassing traditional middlemen like large distributors. They are often characterized by focusing on local and seasonal ingredients. The menus at these events change with the seasons to reflect what is currently available from nearby farms, so that the freshest possible ingredients may be showcased. The whole idea is to provide a direct connection between the producer and the consumer. In other words, these events aim to build relationships and increase transparency between farmers and the people who consume their products. The basic idea is to provide opportunities to learn about farms and the process of food production.
If we go back in time, farm-to-table used to be the norm. After all, largescale commercial food production is a relatively modern development. However, as the distribution of products over long distances became more feasible due to refrigerated vehicles, consumers took the opportunity to purchase products that were less expensive or scarce in their area. World War II was one of the driving factors in the shift away from local food sourcing. Industrialization for the sake of the war effort revolutionized the manufacture and distribution of many products, including food and its packaging. With armistice, soldiers began using their veterans’ benefits to move into suburban homes rather than choosing the farming lifestyle preferred earlier. Soon, there was an increase in demand for food products that people were no longer growing themselves. In the following decades, improved preservation methods and the low manufacturing costs resulting from producing food at a much larger scale would further solidify the shift away from locally produced food. Then, during the 1950s and 1960s, the
fast-food industry became enormously popular. Because the foods served by McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, and similar establishments needed to be inexpensive and last a long time during transit, preservatives became an essential part of their production. The reduced prices and increased convenience allowed Americans the option to spend less time making home-cooked meals.
Change followed with the hippie movement during the 1960s, in the form of community self-sufficiency. This gave rise to organic, slow food, and plant-based movements, which created a renewed emphasis on the importance of food production methods and sourcing. It is this latter movement that has enabled a greater number of small businesses distributed throughout the country to gradually play a bigger role in our food system. The current emphasis at a farm-to-table experience is on freshness and quality. The reduced travel distance and time from farm to table help ensure that the ingredients are at their peak ripeness and retain their nutritional value and flavor. Meanwhile, by sourcing locally, these events help sustain smallscale farms and businesses in the community, boosting the local economy and creating jobs. It has become all too common to drop the term “sustainability” into our current lexicon. This is one instance where the provider is walking her/his talk. Farm-to-table initiatives encourage environmentally friendly farming methods and humane animal welfare practices. Meanwhile, they also encourage community engagement. Look around yourself at a farm-to-table event. Whether we’re referring to farmers’ markets, farm dinners, cooking classes, or farm tours . . . the atmosphere is one where an appreciation of local food and the method of preparing it is shared by everyone present.
Here are some Farm to Table options in New Hampshire:
Sunflower Soiree is an event at Brookfield Farm in Canterbury. It features strolling through sunflower fields, live music, and farm-fresh food. It is a daily event from 10 am to 5 pm, August 9-17.
Dinner in the Orchard at Riverview Farm in Plainfield hosts dinners with a focus on local ingredients while surrounded with good company. It’s open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 am-5:30 pm, August-October.
Dinner on the Farm takes place at The Fox and Crow Farm in Barnstead. Dinners are offered featuring a five-course menu with locally sourced meats, ingredients, bread, great wines, and local beers.
The Farmers Dinner organization hosts upscale dinners on local farms, creating menus based upon what is available at each farm.
Farm to Fork Dinner at the New London Historical Society event at the Phillips Barn features locally sourced food, music, and good cheer. Sessions at 5 pm on August 10 and 16.
Lavender Infused Farm to Table Dinner, held in June, allowed one to enjoy a five-course dinner with lavender-infused cuisine at Pumpkin Blossom Farm, including cocktails and a walk through the lavender fields.
The Foundry Restaurant in Manchester is a certified farm-to-table restaurant
with seasonal menu changes, cocktails, wine, micro and craft beers, and live music
Covered Bridge Farm Table at Campton offers a farm-to-table attitude with cuisine from around the world . . . a different spin on the concept.
Vernon Family Farm in Newfields hosts various outdoor events and dining experiences featuring locally raised food. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 9 am -6 pm.
Mayfair Farm in Harrisville offers farm-to-table catering and events with an emphasis on seasonal, local menus.
Moulton Farm, located in Meredith, New Hampshire, emphasizes providing locally grown food and offers various ways to experience their farm-to-table approach in 2025. Their farm market is open daily from 8 am - 5:30 pm and features vegetables grown in their fields, as well as prepared foods from their farm kitchen and bakery. This is not an exhaustive list of the area’s farm-to-table opportunities. Additionally, it is recommended that interested persons visit the respective websites of these other farm-to-table operations to determine their specific offerings:White Gates Farm in Tamworth, Dandylion Forest Farm in Nottingham, Tumbledown Farm in Sanbornville, Squam Lake Inn in Holderness, Forsyth Family Farm in Gilford.
Yesteryear
Beautiful Pageants in Days Gone By
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
Ballroom dancing was a huge craze in the early 1900s. If you wanted to socialize and perhaps meet your future husband or wife, taking to the dance floor was a great way to meet other young people.
Jim Irwin’s Winnipesaukee Ballroom Gardens at Weirs Beach was the place to meet and dance in the 1920s, 30s, 40s, and 50s, when big-name musicians such as Glen Miller and Duke Ellington graced the stage. The dance floor was huge, and to this day, older local residents get starry-eyed when they remember dancing at this premier nightspot.
Perhaps dancing was what Alma Cavagnaro from Boston, Massachusetts, had in mind when she dressed for an evening of music and dancing at Irwin’s Winnipesaukee Gardens at Weirs Beach in August of 1925. By the end of the evening, she had been crowned Miss Winnipesaukee.
Alma was the daughter of a Boston policeman; she was most likely vacationing in the area in the summer of 1925. Information at www. misswinnipesaukee.org says she was a summer resident of Lake Winnisquam. An interview with the Boston Globe shortly after Alma won first prize in the Miss Winnipesaukee Pageant, allowed the young winner to explain, when asked where she got her good looks, “If there’s any credit, it’s due to Father and Mother. I love to be out of doors, and I eat and sleep well, walk a lot and enjoy life. No cosmetics except fresh air, sun and exercise.”
Her answer during the question portion of the contest must have pleased the judges with its focus on
good parenting and love of family. She was asked what she would do if
from entrepreneur Jim Irwin, owner of Winnipesaukee Gardens. With many young people from the greater Boston area in the Lakes Region for a summer vacation with their families, most spent their evenings at the Gardens socializing and dancing.
The following year, Miss Marie Graham of Jamaica, Massachusetts, was crowned the pageant winner. The Laconia Evening Citizen’s August 18, 1926, edition stated that she was chosen and crowned in front of 1,500 spectators at the ballroom. As a 20-yearold stenographer, she was a guest at the Maples Hotel in the Weirs Beach area, according to www.misswinnipesaukee. org. Perhaps Marie’s wholesome good looks, with long blonde hair that she chose not to “bob” as most ladies her age were doing, appealed to the judges. Whatever the reason, Marie found herself, as the winner, on her way to Atlantic City with all expenses paid to enter the annual national beauty pageant. What a night it must have been, with a Hawaiian orchestra and “dancing continued until 4 o’clock in the morning.”
she won a one-way trip to Paris. (The contest-winning first prize money would cover the cost of the trip.)
Retorted the successful beauty. “What, leave Mother and Dad and the girls? I haven’t decided yet what I shall do with the prize money, but it certainly won’t be going to Paris – not till I can take the family with me!”
Although the answer and the lighthearted nature of that early contest seem innocent in our modern-day world, the competition was a great way to spend a summer evening, whether you were a contestant or an avid spectator.
The contest was but one of many
In 1927, the pageant became a big part of summer in the area. This was the era when moving pictures came into their own, and many young women dreamed of becoming a movie star, like favorites Mary Pickford and Gloria Swanson. Not everyone had the talent, and their dreams of stardom often remained just that: a dream. But a win in a beauty pageant (as the competitions were known as in those days) could get you visibility, and a movie talent scout might discover you. One local youth, Marguerite Gaudette, definitely had the recipe for success: beauty, great dancing skill and a beautiful singing voice. Marguerite lived in the Weirs Beach area and attended high school in nearby Meredith. Outgoing and talented, this pretty young woman was often seen at the Gardens, accompanied by her mother and brother, where her skill as a dancer stood out.
She won the beauty pageant in 1931. That same year, she competed in the Miss New Hampshire pageant held
• Yesteryear continued on page 21
Marguerite Gaudette, Miss Winnipesaukee, 1931. Courtesy www.misswinnipesaukee.org
also at the ballroom. To compete for the Miss Winnipesaukee title, the girls had to be interviewed by contest judges, and model in a bathing suit and evening gown.
The contest was so popular that Jim Irwin dedicated Irwin’s first speedboat, Miss Winnipesaukee. To this day, people still recall with affection the old Miss Winnipesaukee speedboats.
The Miss Winnipesaukee pageant became a regular part of summer entertainment in the Lakes Region. The ballroom was the perfect place for the contest, with its huge dance floor and stage, and always a good audience.
In 1940, the winner was 19-year-old Mildred Gardner, a “beauty operator” from Troy, New York. She was enjoying a vacation at the Pine Bank Lodge between the Weirs and Meredith with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Gardner. The event was Mildred’s first entrance into a beauty contest. Runners up were Miss Dolly Fowler of Wolfeboro, Miss Mildred Barrett of Arlington, Mass., and Miss Marilyn Meehan of Jackson Heights, N.Y.
Just five years later, in 1945, the contest continued as World War II ended.
Information at www.miss winnipesaukee.org says, “Miss ‘Bunny’ Vermette, a 20-year-old brunette, was chosen “Miss Winnipesaukee of 1945” at the annual bathing beauty contest held at Irwin’s Winnipesaukee Gardens last night. Miss Vermette wore a two-piece white bathing suit, which was in sharp
contrast with her deep tan. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Delphis Vermette of Spring Street and is employed as a stenographer at Scott and Williams. In the finals were three contestants aside from Bunny: Anita French of Avery Street, who was a very close runner-up, Miss Paula Baker, of Meredith, and Miss Leonora Antonceccki of Somerville, Mass.”
The event was a big deal in the area, and the winner helped to promote the fun and recreation to be had in the Lakes Region. In around 1950, Laconia resident Colleen Gallant was the winner. She was a talented water skier and a member of a local waterski club; she used that sport as the talent portion of her program in the Atlantic City Beauty Pageant. This would undoubtedly have brought further awareness of the fun to be had in the Lakes Region.
The 1955 winner, Judy Smith, is shown in a vintage photo, all smiles as she holds her trophy and shakes hands with Jim Irwin.
Charming old photos at www. misswinnipesaukee.org. show the fun the young women had at the contests. Some photos are of the ladies lined up, all smiles, sporting one-piece bathing suits and high heels. One happy winner, Marilyn Dearborn, is photographed sunning herself on the beach. The year was 1944, and the competition was held at Winnipesaukee Gardens.
The pageant took place at the Gardens for many years and was greatly anticipated. In later years, when the Gardens had closed permanently,
pageant organizers determined to continue the event. It moved to various locations, and with the help of Bob Lawton, the owner of Funspot in Weirs Beach, the pageant found a home for quite some time at the facility. It later moved to a local high school and then, more recently, found a home at Gunstock in Gilford. More recently, the pageant is held each summer at the CAKE Theatre in downtown Laconia. The fun and entertaining pageant
that began many years ago at Irwin’s Winnipesaukee Gardens is remembered with fondness by many (now named the Miss Winnipesaukee Scholarship Program). Whether a past contestant or a winner, or a spectator, the pageant will always be a special part of New Hampshire.
For information on the Miss Winnipesaukee Scholarship Program, visit www.misswinnipesaukee.org
Introduction to Wing Shooting Class at Owl Brook Hunter Education Center
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is holding an Introduction to Wing Shooting Class on Saturday, August 9, from 9 am–1:30 pm at Owl Brook Hunter Education Center in Holderness. For those interested in becoming waterfowl or upland bird hunters, this event will provide new wing shooters with an overview of how to target birds on the fly. Attendees will learn about shotguns, chokes, shooting techniques, and ammunition in the classroom, and then venture to the shotgun range where they will apply their new skills, practicing various shot
types with clay targets in motion. Pre-registration is required and will be conducted on a first-come, firstserved basis. Register today by visiting wildlife.nh.gov. This free introductory class will be held rain or shine. Participants should come prepared for the weather and bring a bag lunch. Firearms and ammunition will be provided, including all necessary safety items. For more information about this class, contact Tom Flynn or Eric Geib at the Owl Brook Hunter Education Center at 603-536-1290.
The First Lady of WWII: Lecture Presented by Author Shannon McKenna Schmidt
On Tuesday, August 5, the Wright Museum will welcome Shannon McKenna Schmidt, for the tenth program of the Wright Museum’s 2025 Education Series.
In August 1943, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt set out in secret for the Pacific on an arduous journey that was part goodwill tour, part fact-finding foray, and part informal diplomatic mission. She returned five weeks and 25,000 miles later, having trekked to Hawaii, New Zealand, and Australia, through the South Pacific and into territory still under enemy air attack.
Lakes
Shannon McKenna Schmidt, the author of The First Lady of World War II: Eleanor Roosevelt’s Daring Journey to the Frontlines and Back, will discuss this unprecedented undertaking, described by a journalist at the time as “the most remarkable journey any president’s wife has ever made.” See Eleanor Roosevelt in a dramatic new light, as an adventurer and traveler, find out how travel was a key factor in her success as First Lady, and learn about the importance of her leadership during World War II.
Shannon is the co-author of two
previous books, Novel Destinations and Writers Between the Covers, and has written for National Geographic Traveler, NPR.org and other publications and websites. She has appeared as a guest on television and radio programs, among them MSNBC’s Morning Joe, and has spoken at such venues as the FDR Presidential Library and Museum and the National World War II Museum. She lives in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Doors open at 6 pm, the program begins at 7 pm on Tuesday, August 5, at the Wright Museum’s DuQuoin Educa-
tion Center, 77 Center Street in Wolfeboro. Admission is $8 for members and $12 for non-members. Pre-paid reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online at wrightmuseum. org/lecture-series or by calling 603569-1212.
The region’s leading resource for educators and learners of all ages on World War II, the Wright Museum features more than 20,000 items in its collection that are representative of both the home front and battlefield. For more information about the 2025 Lecture Series, or museum, visit wrightmuseum.org.
Region Art Association Celebrates 85th Annual Exhibit
The Lakes Region Art Association (LRAA) proudly announces its 85th Annual Exhibit, a landmark celebration of regional creativity and en-
during artistic tradition. The exhibit will be open to the public from July 31 through September 2, 2025, at the Lakes Region Art Gallery located at
LANES END MARINE SERVICE AND STORAGE LLC LANES END MARINE
LRAA Gallery, Suite 300, 120 Laconia Rd, Tilton, NH.
An Evening Reception will be held on Friday, August 8, beginning at 6 pm, offering guests a chance to meet the artists, view the work, and enjoy light refreshments. This festive evening is free and open to all.
Founded in 1940, the Lakes Region Art Association has played a vital role in nurturing the arts across central New Hampshire. What began as a small gathering of local artists has grown into a robust community of painters, photographers, sculptors, and mixed media creators. LRAA has proudly supported generations of artists through exhibitions, workshops, and public engagement.
“This year’s show not only honors the incredible work of our members today but also pays tribute to 85 years of artistic legacy,” said Sherwood Frazier, President of LRAA. “We invite the community to celebrate with us and experience the diversity and talent that continues to thrive in our region.”
The exhibit features works in a variety of mediums and styles, reflecting the vibrant voices of both emerging and established artists. Many pieces will be available for purchase. For more information, visit www. lakesregionartgallery.org or follow LRAA on social media.
History Revival Update – Boodey Farmstead
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
The work is ongoing. That statement would likely be the fact given by Cathy Orlowicz, chairperson of The Zechariah Boodey Farmstead Collaborative Board of Directors. Should one wonder how the committee will bring the historic homestead back to life on a rural New Durham Road, that explanation of ongoing work surmises the extensive effort of the committee appointed by the town.
For a bit of background, the idea for the project began when Orlowicz served as an apprentice to Eloise Bickford, New Durham’s town historian. Explains Orlowicz, “It was Eloise’s dream to see the old Boodey farm preserved for the future. The project, when completed, will provide a permanent home for the farmstead, which is a good example of a post-Revolutionary War farm. Saving the property and buildings is important because they offer a glimpse of how people in the area lived long ago. The farmstead will also be a place for educational programs, a unique event space, and public multiuse trails.”
Some time ago, the selectmen of New Durham (the town owns the Boodey property) appointed a committee to oversee the project, with Orlowicz serving as chair. It is a position she has gladly held since the beginning of the work. (The goal is to have the renovations and project completed by 2030 and open for public use.)
The groundbreaking ceremony was held in July of 2023, and at that time,
work commenced on the first phase of the Zechariah Boodey Farmstead Project.
Generous donors included John and Wanda Chamberlin, owners of Ironwill Contractors, who offered their services valued at $41,000.00 toward the project. They donated services, labor, equipment, and materials. Additionally, they installed a state-approved septic system, the parking lot to finished grade, the required drainage features, grading of the site, and the excavation for the foundations of the building.
Robert “Bob” Hamilton, owner of Hamilton Landscaping, handled the tree removal process for the septic system area and donated services to cut and remove logs and brush debris, val-
ued at $3,500.00.
Johnny Matarozzo, owner of M & M Logging, and Jason Landry worked to cut, chip, and haul away the trees. The total cost for their work was $4,000.00.
The committee is taking each part of the renovation in phases, doing things thoughtfully for each component to be done correctly. With the pieces of Phase One finished, work has shifted to Phase Two; following the mission statement (which the committee rewrote to be more inclusive.)
“We have partnered with a 501C3 non-profit fundraising group, to form the Zechariah Boodey Farmstead Collaborative; we have had success with our fundraising partnership,” says Orlowicz.
According to Orlowicz, the town of New Durham very much wants the project to happen, and they have charged the committee with funding for the reassembly of the farm buildings.
“We have raised a good amount, and we have secured the architectural firm of Christopher P. Williams Architects in Meredith. We are now reviewing schematics and drawings, and we have seen 3D models of the layout for the facility, and we like them,” Orlowicz continues.
The vision for the completed property will be a venue for up to 130 people that will be used for historical educational programs, and fee-based rentals such as gatherings and weddings. The overall goal is for the Boodey Farmstead to be a place of glory for the New Durham area and the entire Lakes Region. “We want to rehabilitate the property and return it to its original form and demonstrate sustainability in a profitable way,” explains Orlowicz.
At present, the original farmhouse is unassembled and stored for future use. The plan will be to soon assess which timbers are usable for the building reconstruction and which need repairs before using.
As the project began some years ago, dismantling the Boodey house took about a week, and it was not an easy task. The home was built in 1769 but had been unused since the 1950s. When the committee began their work, the rooms were empty, but some sections
• Farmstead continued on page 24
Zechariah Boodey Farmstead circa 1880s; (Courtesy the Zechariah Boodey Farmstead Project.)
had severe rot. The dismantling was dealt with by experts, and everything from the colonial period was saved as well, such as the floor joists and timbers. The style of the house was a timber-frame Colonial Cape.
“We have given our floor plan to the architects,” says Orlowicz. “Although we are under construction, we welcome visitors and want to show the public what we have been doing.”
She says if Zechariah Boodey, who was born in 1745, could see the work the present-day Zechariah Boodey Farmstead Collaborative is doing to save the historical gem, “He would, I think, be very proud.
“We also dismantled the central fireplace,” explains Orlowicz. “The home had three working fireplaces and a beehive oven. We also found things in the basement, such as pieces of old pottery and wood molding, and windows.”
All this suggested to the committee what the house had been like in its days as a working farm. In another stroke of luck, Boodey descendants found old family photographs of the homes’ interior, giving a glimpse at what the home had once been like, with finished woodwork and wallpaper.
The philosophy of the committee and all who are donating time and effort is
to respect and hold onto the area’s past. For a bit of history, Zechariah Boodey, who was born in Madbury, New Hampshire in 1745, relocated to New Durham and obtained 140 acres where he built a log cabin. It is likely other family members settled on the property or nearby as well. Zechariah’s brothers, Joseph and Robert, were friends of Elder Benjamin Randall, the man who organized and began the Free Will Baptist Church. (The articles of the new church were signed in Zechariah’s New Durham house in 1780.)
As a local farmer, Zechariah, along with his wife, Mary, stayed on the property their entire lives. He was well known in New Durham and served for many years as a selectman. He was part of the town when it began, and as an older man, he had many stories to share about the history he remembered.
When Zechariah passed away in 1821, the family continued to live at the home. His son, Joseph, who was born in the log cabin on the property, was then the head of the Boodey family. Eventually, the property passed to daughters who summered there, and the 1950s was the last time the home was lived in on a full-time basis.
Orlowicz says evidence tells us that Zechariah Boodey was an honest and sincere man and very hard working. He was an integral figure in starting the town of New Durham and in building
his farmstead. His place in New Hampshire’s history is rich and well worth saving, as is the Boodey Farmstead.
“We envision the property being open for use by 2030. Our first goal will be to have the barn reassembled and an addition up for public use,” Orlowicz says.
The work is ongoing, as she explains, but Orlowicz is dedicated, as is her committee, to seeing it through to completion. “I want to honor the sacrifices made by those who have given so
much. Many people have worked hard and are also committed to seeing this through.”
For information on the Boodey project, donations, and events, please email cathyo@tds.net. To learn more and see photos, visit www.zbfcnh.org
The property is located at 29 Stockbridge Corner Road, New Durham.
Two New Watercolor Classes
Starting August 12
Juried artist
Stephanie C. McQuade and the Lakes Region Art Gallery are pleased to announce the return of their popular watercolor classes. Beginning August 12, 2025, two 5-week courses will be offered in person at the gallery, located in the Tanger Outlets in Tilton.
Tuesdays from 10 am to Noon and is designed for absolute beginners and aspiring artists. Students will explore foundational techniques, color mixing, and brush control in a supportive, hands-on environment.
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ment through both guided and independent projects. Both classes are 5 weeks long, cost $200 each, and will be held at:
to take their work further,” said McQuade. “It’s all about exploring creativity and enjoying the process.”
For more information and to sign up, visit www.mcquadefinearts.com/
Following that, Intermediate Watercolor takes place Tuesdays from 1 pm to 3 pm and is perfect for students who already have basic experience. The class dives deeper into color theory, composition,
Science Center Offers Family Access Membership
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center aims to connect more families with nature by once again offering a reduced-cost membership program for New Hampshire families receiving food assistance benefits (SNAP) and participants of the NH WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program for the 2025 season.
The Science Center is addressing challenges some families face in accessing natural experiences by offering the popular six-person Family Access Membership. Benefits include free daily admission to trails and exhibits for up to six people (May 1 to November 1), discounted extra guest trail admission, reduced rates on educational programs and lake cruises for the member and guests, subscription to Tracks & Trails newsletter, reciprocal admission to popular family attractions in northern New England, and reciprocal admission to participating nature centers nationwide through the Association of Nature Center Administrators.
“Increasing access to nature regardless of income aligns with the Science Center’s strategic plan
to provide nature for all,” said Executive Director Iain MacLeod. “It also allows the Science Center to further our mission, to advance understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world.”
To purchase the Family Access Membership, eligible families can visit the Admissions office at the Science Center from May 1 through November 1. A current EBT, or Caregiver Benefit sheet, and photo ID are needed to purchase the membership.
The Family Access Membership program is generously supported in part by Heart and Hands Thrift Shop, a collaboration between Trinity Episcopal, St. Charles Catholic, and First Congregational Churches in Meredith; NH Charitable Foundation; and The Van Otterloo Family Foundation.
Learn more about the Science Center at nhnature.org. For further details about the Family Access Membership, please get in touch with Nicole Verspyck at nicole. verspyck@nhnhature.org or 603-968-7194 x124.
Author Amy Makechnie Visits Gafney Library to Spark Young Imaginations
Amy Makechnie, author of multiple critically acclaimed middle grade novels, will be presenting “From Real Life to Fantastic Fiction,” at the Gafney Library, 14 High St, Sanbornville, NH, on Wednesday, August 6, at 1 pm. While this presentation is geared towards youth under 12 years of age, all are welcome. In this presentation, Makechnie shares her journey on how she became a writer and where she came up with the ideas for her stories. She encourages the youth to think creatively about their own life and stories and how they, too, could become writers.
Makechnie is the author of The Unforgettable Guinevere St Clair (recently optioned for a television series) and Ten Thousand Tries, both of which received multiple starred reviews and
have been on numerous state and “best of” book lists. Her most recent novel, The McNifficents, was New Hampshire’s 2024 Great Reads for Kids selection for the National Book Festival in Washington D.C.
Makechnie is a former anatomy and physiology teacher. In her spare time, she loves teaching, presenting and writing about the human body. She lives in New Hampshire with her family and two miniature schnauzers. This event is hosted by the Gafney Library, and after her presentation, Makechnie will be available to sign copies of her book. For more information, you can stay in touch by subscribing to her newsletter, “Lit with Amy Makechnie,” at amymakechnie. substack.com, or visit The Gafney Library, Inc.
Rhodes, in this incarnation for the last novel of the Harrison Rhodes Quintet, by Peter Thompson. This jail, this hapless “crime,” mirrors all the missteps (bitingly funny) of the other novels. He’s childishly altruistic, but often sallies forth in the most vicious terms against horrible bosses and an unfair share of other monsters. www.dialogosbooks.com
Call Up Some Fun at the New Hampshire Telephone Museum with a Free Pass
The Meredith Public Library has added another pass to its popular Museum Pass and Attractions Discount program. The new pass admits two people for free to the New Hampshire Telephone Museum in Warner, NH. Since two passes are available each day, that means a total of four people can enjoy the museum at no charge.
The New Hampshire Telephone Museum seeks to inspire curiosity by engaging a broad public audience in exhibitions and programs based on its remarkable and expanding collection. The Museum preserves the past and tells the stories of the telecommunications industry. It houses a tangible history of telecommunications, which can be viewed via guided or self-guided tours.
The knowledgeable staff provides engaging commentary highlighting important moments in telephone history, such as the race to the patent office, the undertaker who invented the dial system, and so much more. Attendees can even connect a call using an old-fashioned switchboard.
Visitors are encouraged to make a day of it in Warner, New Hampshire, because the library also offers free passes to the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum in Warner. Passes to these two attractions (as well as all discounted attractions) can easily be reserved on the library website by starting on the home page at www.MeredithLibrary.org and clicking on the link labeled Museum Passes/Attraction Discounts.
Robert Hooghkirk is Fully Committed at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse
A fan favorite since first stepping on a Lakes Region stage in 2022, New York-based actor Robert Hooghkirk returns to the Winnipesaukee Playhouse for this season’s comedic play, Fully Committed. The production runs through August 2.
trionics—a cast of desperate callers will stop at nothing in their zeal to land a prime reservation or the right table. Hooghkirk plays not only the actor, Sam, but also all the other characters in the show.
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Hooghkirk burst onto the Playhouse stage in both Robin Hood and Lionel Bart’s Oliver! his first season and made such an impression that he has now performed in 10 productions in just four years. With impeccable comic timing, an impressive singing voice, an array of accents in his repertoire, and a clownish physicality, Hooghkirk delights audiences of all ages with roles ranging from Poirot in Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express to The Night Watchman in Corduroy.
Hooghkirk is tackling one of his biggest challenges yet with this season’s Fully Committed. This devastatingly funny play follows a day in the life of an out-of-work actor who mans the red-hot reservation line at Manhattan’s number-one restaurant. Coercion, threats, bribes, his-
Director Tyler Christie, who also helmed last season’s Witch, says, “I have no doubt that witnessing the feat that is Robert playing over thirty characters in 90 minutes will leave you entertained and charmed, as I have been while working with the comic dynamo that he is. You are all in for a real treat!” The creative team also includes scenic designer Dan Daly, lighting designer Libby Hinshaw, costume designer John Beltre, and sound designer Elizabeth Atkinson. Fully Committed is generously sponsored by Northeast Mill Services, Lakes Region Community College, Birch Hill Bookkeeping, LaValley Building Supply, Dead River Company, and Bank of New Hampshire. The Winnipesaukee Playhouse is located at 33 Footlight Circle (formerly 50 Reservoir Road), and tickets are available at www.winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org.
Americans and the Holocaust Exhibit and Film Showings at the Meredith Public Library
The Americans and the Holocaust exhibit opens at the Meredith Public Library, 91 Main Street, on July 29. The Library will be hosting a film series related to the exhibit on Saturdays at 11 am, August 2, 9 & 16. Following each film, there will be a discussion. We are screening these films with a goal to provide audiences with greater insight into the social, political, and cultural contexts of the Holocaust and antisemitism by connecting film narratives to historical events. Popcorn and other refreshments will be served.
The August 2 film is The Great Dictator (1940): Nominated for five Academy Awards, Chaplin›s The Great Dictator, a satirical comedy about Hitler, Nazism, and antisemitism, was his first sound film.
On August 9, Casablanca (1942):
Winning Academy Awards for Best Picture, Director and Adapted Screenplay, Casablanca tells the story of Rick, an American expatriate, who must choose between the woman he loves and helping her husband, a partisan-resistance fighter, escape from the Vichy-controlled city of Casablanca to continue his fight against the Nazi’s. And finally, on August 16, Gentleman’s Agreement: Nominated for eight Academy Awards and winning three: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Director, Gentleman’s Agreement stars Gregory Peck as a journalist who goes undercover as a Jewish man to write an article about antisemitism in New York.
For more information, visit meredithlibrary.org.
LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE
Calendar Girls & Sweeney Todd Up Next at The Village Players Theater
Theater lovers from across New Hampshire can anticipate an extraordinarily rich season in the final half of 2025 as The Village Players Theater mounts productions of the beloved Calendar Girls through August 3 and Sweeney Todd, October 31 – November 9.
Calendar Girls is the heartwarming tale of women “of a certain age” determined to raise funds for the comfort of families of cancer patients. They strike upon the novel idea of selling a calendar of pin-ups: tasteful photos of themselves—nude! The plot explores their inhibitions, their bravery, their conflicts, and the warmth of genuine friendship and care for community and one another.
Village Players audiences will be struck by the chemistry of the onstage performances, as well as the artistry of the backstage crew who make the magic of the bare-all photography sessions and recreate a post-WWII Britain. It is based on the Miramax motion picture by Juliette Towhidi and Tim Firth and is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of
Calendar Girls will be produced at the Village Players Theater, Fri-
day and Saturday, August 1 and 2, at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, August 3, at 2 pm. Tickets are available at Black’s Paper Store, at www.vil-
lage-players.com, and at the door until sold out.
The Tony Award-winning Sweeney Todd is the musical story of the demon barber of Fleet Street and will be appropriately produced in the eerie shadows of fall. In it, an unjustly exiled barber returns to London seeking vengeance on the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his wife. The music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim offer actors the opportunity to cultivate the full range of their vocal talents while recreating the dark underbelly of Victorian England and the inhumanity of man. Auditions will be held for the production’s 10 named roles and a large ensemble on Sunday, August 10, and Monday, August 11, at 7 pm. The production opens on Halloween and will run through the first full weekend of November.
Auditioners are asked to prepare a song of 30 seconds – 1 minute that demonstrates their vocal range and will be asked to read from the script. Complete details are available at www.village-players.com/ sweeneytodd.
Samuel French, Inc., www.concordtheatricals.com.
What’s Happening at the New Hampshire Boat Museum
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
There is a lot for Devon Kurtz to like about the New Hampshire Boat Museum. There is the historic aspect, the opportunity to be around beautiful vintage and antique boats, and also to bump elbows with boat builders and owners of old boats.
As executive director of the Boat Museum, with headquarters in a newly renovated, spacious building in Moultonborough, Kurtz is right where he wants to be. He loves the lake and says, “I grew up on a lake in a small town in central Massachusetts. I think I knew how to paddle a canoe before I knew how to ride a bike. As a child, I liked to watch a television show called Captain Bob, where he gave lessons on draw-
ing nautical scenes (I still doodle lighthouses when I’m deep in thought). But it wasn’t until working on a special exhibit at the Concord Museum (building a reproduction of a dory built by Henry Thoreau) that I truly fell in love with wooden boats, and especially dories.”
Kurtz and his wife love dories so much that during the COVID shutdown they purchased a rowing dory and made good use of it. As they worked remotely at the time (during the pandemic) they took the dory, accompanied by their dog and worked on Zoom calls as they traveled the lakes and rivers around New England.
Kurtz has been in the museum field since 1996, so the job at the New Hampshire Boat Museum is a perfect
fit. “I first worked at Old Sturbridge Village, an 1830s living history museum in Massachusetts. I was a program coordinator there, in charge of elementary school programs and adult education workshops. I was also a historic interpreter there working as a shoemaker, tinner, and I was in charge of historic sports and games and other performance activities,” he explains.
“Later, I served as the Director of Education at the Concord Museum in Concord, Massachusetts. My highlight while there was working with our curatorial staff and historic boat build-
• NHBM continued on page 29
ers from Mystic, Connecticut to build a reproduction of the dory that Henry David Thoreau and his brother built to travel up the Concord and Merrimack
Moultonborough headquarters for the New Hampshire Boat Museum. (Courtesy photo)
The new Executive Director of the New Hampshire Boat Museum, Devon Kurtz with a canine pal. (Courtesy photo)
Rivers. I was the Director of Education and Public Programs at the Higgins Armory Museum (now closed) in Worcester, Massachusetts. It was a museum of historic arms and armor. Most recently, I was the Executive Director of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, a nonprofit organization that works in partnership with the National Park Service.”
When Kurtz took a look at the New Hampshire Boat Museum, he was impressed. “I’m excited by the combination of exhibits and hands-on opportunities for the visitor. I love that you can come in and see this amazing collection, but can also try your hand at boat building, take sailing lessons, or attend our lecture series.”
Founded in 1992 by passionate antique and classic boating enthusiasts, the New Hampshire Boat Museum has evolved into an interactive hub for preserving and celebrating New Hampshire’s freshwater boating stories, according to www.nhbm.org. For quite some time (since 2000) the New Hampshire Boat Museum was situated at the former Allen “A” Resort theater and dance hall in Wolfeboro. Plans are that the Allen A location will remain an integral part of the museum as a seasonal campus.
In 2022, following a successful capital campaign, the New Hampshire Boat Museum acquired a 24,000 square foot building in Moultonborough to expand operations. Speaking of the new facility, Kurtz explains, “Our new building is full of potential. We’ve been working hard all winter and spring pulling together our main gallery. We’ve reconstructed a marina to showcase our collection with a raised dock so you can look right down into the boats and explore their stories at multiple levels. We have a motor shop exploring
the history of motors and small boats, and even the rise in popularity of water skiing. The multi-storied building will highlight and, dare I say, celebrate the history of fresh water boating in New Hampshire.”
For those who have taken a boat building class or toured the Allen A location in Wolfeboro and may be a bit confused if that site will still be in operation, Kurtz says, “Our main campus is now located in Moultonborough. There, visitors will see the majority of our collection, special exhibits, our lecture series, and special programs. Wolfeboro features our boat building school, our sailing program, our model boat program, and special collections (by appointment only).”
Many things about the unique New Hampshire Boat Museum interest Kurtz, so much so that he knew this was the place he wanted to be. He has been the new executive director of the New Hampshire Boat Museum for only a short time, and has jumped in with enthusiasm. He heard of the open-
ing when a colleague was running the job search for the board and gave him a call. “My wife is originally from the Adirondacks, and we’ve been looking for positions that were near and about the water,” he adds.
A lot is happening at the New Hampshire Boat Museum every summer, and this year will see displays of wooden and transition wood-fiberglass motorboats from renowned brands like Chris-Craft, Lyman, and Century. The exhibits showcase the rich history and stories of living and boating on the lake, things that are near and dear to Kurtz.
As well as exhibits, educational programs and events are offered for families and individuals, including boat-building classes, community sailing, model yachting, and boating safety courses.
Added to this ambitious list of events and programs are vintage boat rides. Choose from the two beautiful boats owned by the New Hampshire Boat Museum, the Millie B and the Miss
Lauren. Each boat is a 28-foot mahogany triple-cockpit “Woody.” The replica 1928 Hacker-Crafts are meticulously built down to the seat colors, offering an authentic taste of the golden age of boating when wooden boats ruled the waters. A ride in either of the boats is a memorable experience, taking passengers back to the golden age of boating on Lake Winnipesaukee.
The Millie B departs from the Wolfeboro Town Docks, and the Miss Lauren from North Water Marine on Paugus Bay at Weirs Beach.
As the New Hampshire Boat Museum settles into its new headquarters, Kurtz is looking ahead. When asked his future goals for the museum, he says, “We are in the midst of a capital campaign to finish our build-out of the Moultonborough campus. So, some goals are to complete the building reservations, landscaping, and exhibit expansions. I am also looking to upgrade our Wolfeboro facility. It would be great to be able to offer our boat-building programs all year round. I would also like to see how we can connect to regional schools and the New Hampshire curriculum.”
Additionally, Kurtz says he would like the New Hampshire Boat Museum to increase its hands-on opportunities, with more inclusive programs, and onsite boat-building demonstrations. Kurtz comments, “As the executive director, I work with our staff, our board of trustees, our amazing volunteers, and the public to tell the story of boating in our region, from work boats to those constructed just for fun. I am excited to be leading this amazing organization and shepherding our collection to existing and new audiences.” For more information, visit www. nhbm.org or call 603-569-4554. The New Hampshire Boat Museum is located at 130 Whittier Highway, Rt. 25 in Moultonborough.
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A beautiful old boat on display at the New Hampshire Boat Museum. (Courtesy photo)
Lost River Gorge: One of New Hampshire’s Finest Gifts From Nature
By Mark Okrant
Located in the White Mountains, Lost River Gorge (full name: Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves), is a spectacularly beautiful place forged by the powerful forces of glacial meltwater, wind, weather, and time. The shaping of Kinsman Notch and the surrounding mountains began about 300 million years ago. The Ice Age brought glaciers more than a mile thick that grounded, lifted, and deposited rocks that formed notches and mountains. When the ice melted, the water carried debris, eroding the rocks to form this rugged place.
According to the Society for Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Lost River has been named because “the brook draining from the southeast part of Kinsman Notch disappears below the surface in the narrow, steep-walled glacial gorge. The Gorge is partially filled with immense blocks of granite, through which the brook cascades along its subterranean course until it eventually emerges and joins the Pemigewasset River, which flows south from Franconia Notch.”
Historian Elmer E. Woodbury tells us that the first exploration of Lost River took place in 1852. According to Woodbury, brothers Royal and Lyman Jackman were fishing along the stream. The boys had worked their way over and around the boulders when suddenly Lyman disappeared from view. It appeared to Royal that the Earth had swallowed his brother when, in actuality, Lyman slipped into a moss-covered hole and fell into a cave. There, he landed about fifteen feet below into a pool of water about waist deep. What is now known as Shadow Cave, was the first of the many caves the Jackmans discovered during their time exploring the area.
In the early 1900s, as logging increased in the area and threatened the
beauty of Lost River Gorge and its surrounding area, it became a vital cause to protect this natural wonder. In 1912, a number of people calling themselves The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests recognized the need and purchased Lost River. Still owned by the Forest Society today, and now leased and operated by the White Mountains Attractions Association (WMAA), the two organizations work closely together to provide opportunities to experience Lost River, just as it was possible more than a century and a half ago. Today, Lost River Gorge is enjoyed by people of all ages who appreciate hiking, adventure, and nature. The visitor center is located at 1712 Lost River Road in North Woodstock. Visitors experience the gorge by following a boardwalk trail. Even for those in moderately good health, this provides a challenging workout, one with a number of physical challenges. Each general admission ticket provides access to a one-mile-long wooden boardwalk trail through the Gorge, which winds along the Lost River and up through the wooded Forest Adventure Trail. Along the hike, visitors explore jagged rock walls, gigantic boulders, rock-strewn glacial boulder caves, cascading waterfalls, a forest treehouse, suspension bridge, and giant bird nest.
The management does not recommend the self-guided tour for people suffering from heart conditions, knee or back issues, or other medical conditions that may hinder your ability to walk and climb stairs. There is no halfway point as the boardwalk trail makes a full loop. So, visitors should make their choice to take the trail or not. For those who elect to take the trail, they can expect to spend an average of 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Gorge and boulder caves. The self-guided, one-mile walk includes over one thousand stairs,
and provides amazing views from both the Valley Viewpoint and Giant Bird Nest Overlook.
A general admission ticket for visitors aged 4 and older costs $24.00, when booking online in advance. Children 3 and under are free. Walkup rates range from $26.00 to $28.00, depending on your date of visit. Lost River Gorge accepts cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and Apple Pay, but not personal checks. There is not an ATM on-site at Lost River Gorge; ATMs are available in the towns of Lincoln and North Woodstock, about 10 minutes away.
Each general admission ticket provides access to the trail through the Gorge. However, panning for gemstones at the Lost River Mining Company sluice is an optional add-on to your admission fee. The following facilities also are located on the property: gift shop with snacks and drinks plus nature, science, and souvenir-oriented merchandise; restrooms; picnic tables under the sheltered picnic pavilion and out in the open on the deck; a small gemstone mining sluice located at the main entrance under cover; and an uncovered large mining sluice located on the main grounds
Lost River Gorge is a seasonal attraction operating from May 9 to October 19 this year. A visit to Lost River is subject to availability; therefore, it is recommended that you contact WMAA in advance of your visit (603 745-8031). The WMAA must limit occupancy to enhance each visitor’s experience along the narrow, confining paths and caves. May-June and September-October are the attraction’s less busy months. Most visitors choose to explore on weekends and during holiday periods, while weekdays tend to be quieter. The summer months of July and August are the busiest of the sea-
son; Sundays are almost always quieter than Saturdays except for long holiday weekends. The first two hours of ticket sales are less busy than midday ticket sales. Therefore, if you would like to encounter fewer people on a quieter hike, plan to visit early or later in the day.
Lost River Gorge is open rain or shine; however, WMAA will temporarily suspend ticket sales due to heavy rain or thunder and lightning. In the event of a downpour or thunderstorm, rain checks will be issued. Many guests enjoy their hike in the light rain because of the rushing river, pop-up waterfalls, and brilliant green mosses and ferns. Lost River Gorge does not operate when conditions are icy or there has been significant snowfall. It is recommended that visitors dress appropriately for the experience. Wear sturdy close-toed footwear such as sneakers or hiking boots, designed for walking or hiking, and layered outdoor clothing that fits the current weather conditions. Temperatures in Kinsman Notch are typically about 10°F cooler than in the surrounding communities.
