TheLaker_08_11_25

Millie B And Miss Lauren Offer Unique Lake Experience

By Thomas P. Caldwell

They say fiberglass boats have their charms, but there is nothing like a wooden boat. Testing that assertion is as easy as taking a ride on the NH Boat Museum’s Millie B or its more recent acquisition, the Miss Lauren.

The Millie B departs from the Wolfeboro Town Docks for a 45-minute to one-hour journey that makes seven or eight stops, allowing the captain to talk about the breathtaking scenery, magnificent lakeside homes, and historic boathouses.

“We stop in Jockey Cove, and there’s all sorts of stuff to talk about there,” said Chip Bierweiler, vintage boat tour manager for the Boat Museum. “Go around the corner and Madam Chiang Kai-shek [Soong Mei-ling], whose husband was the president of [Nationalist] China, lived there for a number of years.”

The tour also includes information on lake geology and the mountains, including the fact that the Ossipee Mountain Range was formed by volcanic action. The boat passes the Loon Preservation Society headquarters, with the possibility of seeing one of the most ancient birds that are still around, “although I haven’t seen loons in there recently,” Chip said, adding, “They’re out there.”

The Miss Lauren launches from North Water Marine in Paugus Bay, near Weirs Beach, for a 90-minute cruise around Lake Winnipesaukee. The tour provides a unique perspective from the lake’s southern end, with les-

sons on the history of Paugus Bay and the opportunity to see historic boathouses and charming lakeside cottages.

“We also offer private charters up to two hours,” Chip noted, adding, “Anything more than two hours in the boats is a little long, where we don’t have bathroom facilities, for instance. It’s an open boat, it’s not covered, so you’re not getting out of the sun.”

The charters, nevertheless, are popular for the freedom they allow.

Devon Kurtz, the new executive director of the NH Boat Museum, had a chance to get out on the water in the Millie B, and described it as “an amazing way to see the lake”.

“When we moved the boat from her winter home to her summer home in

Wolfeboro, it was a great introduction to the lake,” Devon said. “A wooden boat goes through the water in a whole different way than a modern boat does. I don’t think I’ve ever had so much fun in a boat before.”

Asked to describe the experience, Devon said, “I think you describe it as cutting through the water, rather than bouncing along on top of it. It’s almost organic in the way it moves across the lake. You definitely feel very intimate with the lake.”

Asked whether the captains ever get stumped by passengers’ questions, he responded, “You know, you never let the truth get in the way of a good story. [No one has] seen them ever be at a lack of words.” Turning more seri-

ous, he said, “They definitely have an amazing knowledge and skill.”

The Boat Museum purchased the Millie B from Katherine Eaton and her husband around 2011, Chip said.

“I didn’t come on board as a crew member or manager until 2017,” Chip said, “but they were running tours at that time. It was pretty low-key at the time when I took over, but it’s really kicked into gear the past few years.”

So much so, in fact, that the museum purchased its second tour boat, Miss Lauren, in the summer of 2022.

“We looked at how successful Millie B was and what a great experience we were creating on one side of the lake, and we wanted to look at bringing that experience to the Laconia region,” Devon said. “So we purchased the Miss Lauren to do just that.”

Both boats are replicas of the 1928 Hacker-Craft “woodie” that helped make the company famous. John L. Hacker, a naval architect, founded the Hacker Boat Company in Detroit, Michigan, in 1908, making it one of the oldest wooden motor boat builders in the world. The company moved operations to Lake George, New York, in the 1970s.

A historical note: In 1911, Hacker designed and installed two floats on the Wright Brothers’ biplane to allow it to take off and land on water — the first use of twin floats on an aircraft.

The Hacker Boat Company employed 68 men in 1928 as demand for

• Millie continued on page 4

The Millie B on Lake Winnipesaukee. (Courtesy Photo)

its mahogany runabouts with their elegant design and “breakneck speed” grew among the rich and famous. In 1930, the King of Siam ordered a custom-built 40-foot Landau-top runabout, powered by an 800 hp Packard engine.

Today, Hacker-Craft makes replicas of those classic boats, and the Millie B is one example. The 28-foot mahogany triple-cockpit is accurate “down to the seat colors”, according to the museum.

Chip admitted, “I love old vintage boats, and she’s fun to drive, and we have a great crew down there that also enjoys the time running with the boat.”

The Millie B can accommodate eight people comfortably, but can take nine people if some are children.

The tour crew numbers about 22 people, many of them captains who drive the boats, and there are dock attendants at the kiosk on the Wolfeboro Town Docks.

He notes that the Millie B was named after Mildred Beach of Wolfeboro, who served as executive secretary of the Lakes Region Association, promoting travel and tourism in the Lakes Region and across New Hampshire for more than 40 years.

“She just passed away this past April, at 101, but, growing up in Wolfeboro, I grew up knowing Mildred Beach, so kind of cool that I’m managing a boat that’s named in her honor and memory,” Chip said.

Her obituary noted, “A firm believer that ‘There is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats,’ (Wind and The Willows) nothing pleased Beachie more than a boat ride, whether it be a cruise on her beloved MS Mount Washington, an outing on her own Penn Yan named My Time, a steamboat in Green’s Basin, or fishing from her row boat on Lake Wentworth.”

Devon says the boat tours attract everyone “from young children to people who are now just young at heart”. The boat tours continue into the fall, but are dependent upon the weather.

“We attempt to get through Columbus Day weekend, but depending on the weather — and I call it the hurricane du jour — we’re usually done by the end of September,” Chip says. “We tried foliage tours for a while, but quite frankly, the foliage doesn’t cooperate, and the only one who really gets a good foliage ride is me when I take [the Millie B] back to Melvin Village in the fall. At the latest, we’ll close the same weekend as the museum closes.”

Visitor surveys also show that the NH Boat Museum’s new location at 130 Whittier Highway (Route 25) in Moultonborough is leaving “outstanding impressions” of the experience, according to Devon.

“It’s a wonderful way to showcase our collection. When you go downstairs into our main galleries, all of the boats are sitting in a marina, so you can go up onto the docks and see down into the boats, or you can walk on the floor and see under the boats, so you get a great bird’s eye view and a view from what the fish would see,” he said.

The museum is currently fundraising to match its Northern Borders Regional Commission grant that will allow a 6,000-square-foot expansion of the main floor for additional exhibits.

Reservations for the boat tours and other programs are available online at https://www.nhbm.org/boat-rides/tickets-times, but passengers are urged to check in at 603-794-0938 to make sure the boat rides or charters are not canceled due to rain or extremely windy conditions. Boat tour tickets are also available from dock attendants, allowing people to make last-minute reservations to board the Millie B or Miss Lauren.

Wool, Nature & Imagination: A Textile Journey with Pam Bartlett

The Belknap Mill Museum is proud to present its featured exhibit for the month of August: Wool, Nature & Imagination – Works by Pam Bartlett. This stunning collection showcases the fiber artistry of Pam Bartlett, a juried member of the League of NH Craftsmen and nationally recognized rug hooking artist. Known for her expressive landscapes, animals, and inventive use of mixed fibers, Pam’s work brings nature to life with texture, color, and creativity.

The exhibit will be on view throughout August in the first-floor gallery of the Belknap Mill, the nation’s oldest unaltered brick textile mill. Museum hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12 to 4 pm, and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission fees apply.

A special Meet-the-Artist Reception was held on Friday, August 1, from 5–6 pm, as part of the Mill’s Free First Friday programming.

Pam is best known for her expressive landscapes, pictorials, and animal portraits, but her creativity goes far beyond subject matter. A self-taught artist and McGown-certified teacher, she com-

bines various cuts of wool and mixed fibers—such as silk, satin, fleece, and roving—to create rich textures and emotional depth in every piece. Many of her works are inspired by the natural world and developed from photographs or ideas, which she transforms into unique rugs and wall hangings. With over 40 years of rug hooking experience and more than 25 years of teaching, Pam brings not only talent but also a deep passion for helping others discover their own artistic voice. She has taught throughout the U.S. and Canada, working with groups from two to twenty, and is a four-time recipient of the NH State Council on the Arts Master Artist/Apprenticeship Grant. Her work has been exhibited at prestigious venues, including the American Folk Art Museum in New York City, the Carnegie Center for Art & History in Indiana, the Shelburne Museum in Vermont, and the University of New Hampshire Law School.

For more information about the exhibit, museum hours, or upcoming programs, please visit belknapmill.org or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Agatha Christie’s Ultimate Murder Mystery

‘The Mousetrap’ at the

The Barnstormers Theatre will present “The Mousetrap,” Agatha Christie’s quintessential whodunit, from Aug. 7–16. Directed by Dori A. Robinson, “The Mousetrap” marks the fourth production of the theater’s 95th season.

Barnstormers Theatre

one’s a suspect.

“It’s the iconic Agatha Christie murder mystery,” said Artistic Director Jordan Ahnquist. “‘The Mousetrap’ is a classic for a reason, and Director Dori Robinson has an incredible vision for this production.”

For more than 70 years, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” has captivated audiences worldwide, keeping millions on the edge of their seats. The production holds the record for the longest-running West End show and the longest-running play in the world.

On March 19, 2025, “The Mousetrap” celebrated its 30,000th performance at London’s St. Martin’s Theatre.

As news of a shocking murder in London spreads, seven strangers find themselves stranded by a snowstorm at a remote countryside guesthouse. Tensions rise when a police sergeant arrives with a chilling revelation: the killer is among them. Secrets unravel, sordid pasts are exposed, and every-

The cast features Matty Balkum as Christopher Wren, Emily Bosco as Miss Casewell, Kendra Jo Brook as Mollie Ralston, Jean Mar Brown as Mrs. Boyle, Josh Evans as Giles Ralston, John Little as Mr. Paravicini, Torrey Linder as Major Metcalf, and Michael Mahoney as Detective Sgt. Trotter.

The creative team includes Carolyn Abraham (props manager), Michele Begley (production manager), Chelsie Cartledge Rose (costume design), Genevieve Dornemann (assistant stage manager), Catherine O’Brien (costume shop manager), Kim O’Loughlin (sound design), Karen Perlow (lighting design), Rachel Rose Roberts (scenic design), Dori A. Robinson (director), Peggy R. Samuels (production stage manager), Kat Shepard (wardrobe supervisor), and Ivy Smith (technical director). The Barnstormers Theatre’s 95th season is led by Artistic Director Jordan Ahnquist.

Tickets are available at barnstormerstheatre.org or by calling 603-3238500.

The Heroism of Ben Salomon Lecture by Dr. Fred Johnson, III

On Tuesday, August 19, the Wright Museum will welcome Dr. Fred Johnson, III, for the twelfth program of the Wright Museum’s 2025 Education Series.

By law, only U.S. Service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the Medal of Honor. Captain Benjamin Louis Salomon was one of these brave men. Learn the story of how a simple man attempted to hold off the enemy while his patients attempted to clear an aid station. When his body was later found, 98 dead enemy soldiers were found in front of his position.

Dr. Fred L. Johnson III is Associate Professor of History at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. Prior to his career in higher education, Dr. Johnson served on active duty in the United States Marine Corps as a Communications-Electronics Officer. He subsequently also served as an Infantry Offi-

cer in the Marine Reserves.

A graduate of Bowie State College (now University) Bowie, Maryland, Dr. Johnson earned his master’s and doctorate degrees at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.

Doors open at 6 pm, the program begins at 7 pm on Tuesday, August 19, at the Wright Museum’s DuQuoin Education Center, 77 Center Street in Wolfeboro. Admission is $8 for members and $12 for non-members. Prepaid reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online at https:// wrightmuseum.org/lecture-series or by calling 603-569-1212.

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.

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Michael Vincent Band Heads to Wolfeboro’s Cate Park Saturday night

As the month of August continues to roll along, another act graces the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand in Cate Park.

The Michael Vincent Band will be making its Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand appearance on Saturday, Aug. 16.

The Michael Vincent Band was born more than a decade ago in central New Hampshire. The band members were all students at the same school and stayed busy working as a trio, and eventually picked up a fan base as word spread around the state.

A road trip in 2009 landed the band in Mississippi, where the band members received a college education’s worth of blues schooling over the course of

a few years.

From there, the band began hitting the road more often, playing from San Antonio, Texas to Key West, Fla., to Boston and everywhere in between.

The thousands of miles of road and hundreds of honky-tonks serve as the backdrop for what the Michael Vincent Band does, which is play the blues.

The band has been playing around the state of New Hampshire over the last few years, along the way playing a lot and refining new covers and originals to add to the set.

The Michael Vincent Band includes Michael Vincent on guitar and vocals, Dan Mack on bass and vocals, and Dan Hewitt on drums and mandolin.

The Friends of the Wolfeboro Com-

munity Bandstand are excited to welcome The Michael Vincent Band to the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee this summer as the band brings a taste of what is to come on the blues front.

The Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand summer concert series takes place each Saturday night throughout the months of July and August. The Wolfeboro Community Bandstand is located in Cate Park on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in downtown Wolfeboro. The concerts start at 7 pm and run for two hours with a short intermission.

The concerts are free to the public, though a pass-the-bucket offering is taken during intermission to help the Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand offset the cost of the summer concert series.

In the event of inclement weather, there will be signs posted at the entrances to the park announcing the concert’s cancellation. There will also be a post on the Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand Facebook page or at wolfeborobandstand.org.

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First Stops, Lasting Impressions: The Power of NH’s Welcome Centers

By Mark Okrant

Our nation’s roads are dependent upon a collection of welcome centers to show travelers where to go, and toll booths to pay for the entire system. Welcome centers—also commonly known as visitor centers, or information centers—are buildings located at entrances to states on major points of entry, such as Interstate, U.S., or state highways. Some are situated in popular cities.

The first of these welcome centers, which opened on May 4, 1935, next to U.S. Route 12 in New Buffalo, Michigan, was strategically located to serve as a rest area for motorists and as a source of information for both travelers and new residents that were entering the state or region. At the same time, it provided a place to showcase the state.

Welcome centers and service plazas usually consist of: a large building or buildings with public restroom facilities; free brochures relating to nearby attractions, lodgings, and dining; a free official state highway map updated at regular intervals; staffed desks for people to ask for assistance; picnic areas; nearby restaurants or on-site dining facilities; gas stations; and large parking lots. In addition to the aforementioned, there is normally a large flagpole with the state flag in front of the welcome center.

Welcome centers are normally located at the first few exits into a state, for example, Exit 2 on I-84 in Connecticut, entering from New York

State. However, some welcome centers, visitor centers, or service plazas are located some distance away from a state’s border, serving certain cities, such as Oceanside, California’s local Chamber of Commerce, or New Orleans, Louisiana.

While the New Buffalo center can always lay claim to being first, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that visitor centers became more widespread, appearing not just at state lines but also in cities and towns. At that time, they became common features along major highways and within tourism destinations, initially serving as rest stops and information hubs for travelers or new residents, offering guidance about local attractions, as well as accommodations and services, all the while serving as a showcase for the state. It wasn’t

long before welcome centers evolved beyond simply providing maps and brochures, as a number showcased local art, history, and culture, and some sold souvenirs.

Today, visitor information centers continue to be important for tourism, providing a range of services including trip planning assistance, ticket sales, and access to local amenities. They also incorporate modern technology like internet access and interactive displays to enhance the visitor experience.

A visitor center’s primary purpose is to provide information and assistance to visitors about a specific location, whether it’s a city, park, museum, or other attraction. This includes providing information on attractions, lodging, transportation, and other relevant

details to enhance the traveler’s experience. These centers also play a role in managing visitor dynamics, providing information about the area’s history and culture, and promoting sustainable practices.

Welcome or visitor centers, ranger stations, and rest areas throughout New Hampshire serve the purpose of getting travelers and new residents where they want to go. Many, but not all, are open year-round— some 24 hours a day. They have wheelchair-accessible restrooms and vending machines, courtesy phones, provide weather forecasts, parking, and park passes.

It is essential that staff be very knowledgeable about New Hampshire’s attributes as well as essential sources of information, events, places where tickets can be purchased, favorable places to eat, stay overnight, etc. Many visitors come to New Hampshire for a day or weekend, hoping to use a limited amount of time to hike, camp, fish, play golf, or view wildlife. They need reliable information that is easily obtained. This is where knowledgeable staff at a welcome center is vital. New Hampshire has a very unusual system for training its front-line staff. Welcome centers are operated by the Bureau of Visitor Services (BVS), an element of the Division of Travel and Tourism Development. Unlike nearly every other US state, BVS works with a non-profit organization called New Hampshire

• Welcome Centers continued on page 10

Hooksett Welcome center

Granite State Ambassadors (NHGSA). That organization trains a substantial group of private citizens who work at welcome centers and events to enhance the visitors’ experiences. Meanwhile, every state-employed attendant who works at an information booth, welcome center, etc., must complete the certification program provided by the NHGSA program.

Here is the system of Welcome centers located along the primary roads within New Hampshire.

Interstate I-89 Southbound (Mile Marker 26) Sutton Welcome Center

Interstate I-89 Northbound (Mile Marker 40) Springfield Rest Area

Interstate I-89 Southbound (Mile Marker 57) Lebanon Rest Area (Seasonal)

Interstate I-93 Northbound (Mile Marker 1) Salem Welcome Center

Interstate I-93 Northbound (Mile Marker 31) Hooksett Rest Area

Interstate I-93 Southbound (Mile Marker 31) Hooksett Rest Area

Interstate I-93 Northbound (Mile Marker 51) Canterbury Rest Area

Interstate I-93 Southbound (Mile Marker 61)Sanbornton Rest Area

Interstate I-93 Bidirectional (Mile Marker 125) Littleton Welcome Center (Exit 44) Seasonal

Interstate I-95 Northbound (Mile Marker 0.5)Seabrook Welcome Center

US Route US-3 Bidirectional Colebrook Welcome Center (Seasonal)

State Route US-302 Bidirectional Urban

North Conway Rest Area

While toll roads date back to ancient times, the first private toll road in the United States was the Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike, chartered in 1792. Naturally, its purpose was solely to collect fees from travelers.

Toll booths in New Hampshire date back three-quarters of a century, to June 24, 1950. The state’s turnpike system consists of 88.9 miles of turnpikes and is regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Transportation. Since 2004, toll booths in the state began accepting E-ZPass, making New Hampshire one of eighteen US states to do this. Unlike welcome centers and rest areas, toll booth operators are not trained to offer information or travel services to visitors or new residents. This is understandable given the volume of traffic at many hours and days along I-95, I-93, and the Everett Turnpike.

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Castle Car Show Early Bird Registration Ends Soon

Castle in the Clouds will once again be holding its annual Car Show on Saturday, October 4, from 10 am-2 pm. Registration is now open for show cars and spectators alike on the Castle website.

For those interested in registering a car, you can do so now through August 31 at the Early Bird rate of $20. Starting September 1, pre-registration is $25/vehicle through October 2. Day-of registration is $50/vehicle. As an extra incentive, the first 200 registered cars will receive a commemorative dash plaque, and the first 100 will also get a swag bag.

Volunteer judges will be on hand to

pick the best car in each of three categories: Plant Era, Judge’s Favorite, and this year’s featured category, muscle cars.

This family-friendly event is always a crowd pleaser, with cars ranging from antique Model-As to modern classics. Food trucks will be on hand, Café in the Clouds will be open, and all who are interested to learn more can do so at https://www.castleintheclouds.org/ event/castle-car-show/.

Castle in the Clouds is located at 455 Old Mountain Road, Moultonborough, NH. For more information, please contact programs@castleintheclouds.org or visit www.castleintheclouds.org

Writing & Moving with the Natural World

Enjoy a creative retreat day in a beautiful outdoor setting, or come to a single workshop focusing on writing or movement in conversation with the natural world we are part of.

On Saturday, August 16, from 10 am–12 pm and/or 1–3 pm, join Chocorua Lake Conservancy at Chocorua Park in Chocorua Village for Writing with the Natural World with Louise Wrobleski (from 10 am–12 pm) and Moving with the Natural World with Suzanne Birdsall-Stone (from 1–3 pm). These sessions, while distinct, are in conversation—offering parallel invitations to listen, create, and move with the natural world. You are welcome to join us for one or the other, or come to both and enjoy a creative retreat day in Chocorua. Both workshops are suitable for teenagers and adults, and no previous experience is necessary for either.

Writing with the Natural World, 10 am–12 pm:

Arrive with childlike curiosity and a willingness to spend the morning immersed in the wisdom of nature. Explore and discover how the natural world communicates through patterns, signals, changes, and the invisible threads that connect us all. Participants will create a phenology wheel, a visual tool used to track and record cyclical changes in nature over time, as a springboard for writing, and use sketching and writing to tap into the ‘unseen’ of the earth and the wild.

Moving with the Natural World, 1–3 pm: Through simple, accessible practices, participants will move with the natural world, discovering its textures, rhythms, and quiet invitations alone and with others. Explore the landscape and its treasures at the Chocorua Park and Dam. Participants will leave with a deeper sense of place and a fuller expression of their body’s own nature.

Dress to be comfortable outdoors, sitting, and moving, and bring water, snacks, and/ or lunch. You might also like to bring sun and/or bug protection. Paper and writing, and drawing materials will be provided, and you are also welcome to bring your own.

This program is free to CLC members, $10 suggested donation for non-members, and space is limited. Please register in advance at chocorualake.org/ events so that we can let you know of

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any changes to the schedule; you will need to register for each workshop separately. Storm date is Sunday, August 17.

Suzanne Birdsall-Stone has followed the thread of movement exploration as a pathway to authentic connection with self and others throughout her adult life. She creates welcoming spaces where people can explore their own and shared organic form. She is currently

training as a Mettler-based improvisation teacher.

Louise Wrobleski has spent a lifetime nurturing the written word from preschool classrooms to university settings. She is dedicated to a daily practice of writing and art, and gently invites others to join her in making space for creative reflection. Rooted in a deep, relational connection with the Earth, her work honors the ways the natural world speaks through us and to us. A quiet catalyst for community, she offers regular opportunities for people to gather, write, and share. She currently co-facilitates the Mountains to the Sea writing group for the Cook Memorial Library.

Chocorua Lake Conservancy offers programs throughout the year to encourage people of all ages to enjoy Chocorua Lake and the trails and woods that surround it, and to learn more about the natural world we inhabit. Visit www.chocorualake.org for updated information, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Photo: Mikala Gallo

Stories Behind the Stars: The Summer Sky

Who took care of baby Zeus? Why does Casseopeaia have to spend half her time upside down? Who might the Greater Bear and Lesser Bear represent? And how can we find all these constellations and stories in the myriad stars above us?

On Tuesday, August 19, at 7:30 pm, join Chocorua Lake Conservancy and longtime teacher, storyteller, and outdoor enthusiast Matt Krug for “Stories Behind the Stars” at Charlotte C. Browne Woods in Chocorua, NH, an evening of stories and stargazing.

For millennia, people have used the night sky as a compass, a calendar, and a canvas to express their cultural ideology. Stories Behind the Stars combines myths from around the world, science, and imagination to introduce the audience to the night sky. We will discuss how to locate and recognize many of the major summer constellations and how to navigate by the stars. Using our eyes, we will meet villains, heroes, and lovers.

Bring your curiosity, a sense of wonder, and dress for the nighttime temps.

You might also like to bring bug protection and a water bottle or a warm drink. Kids are welcome with an adult—Matt brings decades of experience as an elementary school teacher.

This program is free to CLC members, $10 suggested donation for

non-members, and space is limited. Please register in advance at chocorualake.org/events so that we can let you know of any changes to the schedule. You’ll receive directions to the location a couple of days before the event. Storm date/cloudy sky date will be

Wednesday, August 20.

Matt Krug has been introducing audiences to the night sky for more decades than he would care to admit. When not teaching or performing, he can be found making “To Do” lists at his home in Fryeburg, Maine.

Chocorua Lake Conservancy offers programs throughout the year to encourage people of all ages to enjoy Chocorua Lake and the trails and woods that surround it, and to learn more about the natural world we inhabit. Visit www.chocorualake.org for updated information, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

CLC is a nonprofit land trust founded in 1968 to protect the scenic and natural resources of the Chocorua Lake Basin and the surrounding area. CLC is committed to providing convenient and attractive public access to Chocorua Lake and trails on nearby conservation lands for visitors and residents. For more information, including ways you can get involved, please visit www. chocorualake.org.

August Classes with League of NH Craftsmen Juried Artists

Join the League of NH Craftsmen –Meredith Fine Craft Gallery this month for a wonderful variety of Classes. Among the highlights: Saturday, August 16, learn the art of needle felting with Patsy Fraser, or Saturday, August 23, for a Silver Ring with artist Joy Raskin.

Learn the art of needle felting and create your own felted gnome in a fun one-day workshop with artist Patsy Fraser; Saturday, August 16, from 10 am to 3 pm. Every home needs a Gnome. If you haven’t felted a Gnome yet, you won’t want to miss this. If you have, you probably want to add to the clan. Felt a traditional style/gnome and dress him in style for any season. Great for beginners and experienced felters

as well. Tuition is $45 per student with an additional materials fee of $20 paid by cash or check to the instructor at the time of the class. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Those who wish to attend MUST sign up by Wednesday, August 13.

On Saturday, August 23, from 10:30 am – 4:30 pm, join juried artist Joy Raskin for a Silver Ring with a Bezel Class. In this one-day workshop, students will make a silver ring band out of wire or sheet metal, and then they will make a bezel to set a cabochon stone. The bezel will then be soldered to the ring, a cabochon stone will be set, and the finished ring will be polished and ready for you to wear and enjoy. Materials are not required, but

Save the Date: Makers Mill Annual

Benefit Dinner at East of Suez

Makers Mill invites the community to its annual benefit dinner at East of Suez on Monday, August 25, at 5:30 pm—an evening of flavorful food, warm conversation, and shared purpose. This much-loved event raises vital funds for Makers Mill’s ongoing work to spark creativity, nurture connection, and empower people with hands-on skills that enrich lives and communities.

Guests will enjoy the signature global flavors of East of Suez, with vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus a build-your-own ice cream sundae bar. The event is BYOB and always fills quickly, so check www.makersmill.org

soon to reserve your seat.

More than just a dinner, this event is a chance to be part of something bigger—a growing movement rooted in creativity, sustainability, and community resilience. Makers Mill, located at 23 Bay Street in Wolfeboro, NH, is a nonprofit makerspace and vocational hub offering classes, open studios, youth programs, and events for all ages. Every ticket helps ensure the continuation of this vital programming and supports a space where people can come together to learn, make, and grow.

students can bring in a favorite stone or any silver they may have. The instructor will supply silver wire and sheet, plus cabochon stones of assorted sizes for students to purchase. The estimated cost of materials ranges from $10 to $50, depending on the cost of the materials chosen.

Tuition is $75.00 per student. The materials fee is between $10-$50, depending on the stones and the amount of silver the student uses. The materials fee will be paid in cash or check to the instructor on the day of class.

Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Those who wish to take the

class MUST sign up by Wednesday, August 20. To register for this workshop, call the League of NH Craftsmen – Meredith Fine Craft Gallery at (603) 279-7920 or visit the Gallery at 279 Daniel Webster Highway in Meredith. For more details, visit our website at meredith.nhcrafts.org/classes/ and our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/nhcraft/

The League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery is located at 279 DW Hwy, Meredith, and is dedicated to the education and support of NH’s fine craft tradition since 1932.

“The TOP SPOT to EAT on Lake Winnipesaukee!” - Phantom Gourmet

DRINK UP!

Please call ahead for event updates. Information and schedules subject to change. Through Aug., Antique Quilts and Clothing Exhibit, runs for month, Clark Museum, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org

Through Aug. 10, Sandwich Old Home Week, events all week, info./schedule: Sandwich Parks and Recreation: parksandrec@sandwichnh.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, 603-323-7591, 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 Aug. 31, The Producers, Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com

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.

Aug. 11, Discover Live: Split, Croatia, 2 –3 p.m., uncover the secrets of Split, where ancient Roman history meets modern-day life, Gilford Public Library, Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, 603-524-6042.

Aug. 11, Kati Preston, Holocaust Survivor, 6 – 8 p.m., Winnipesaukee Playhouse, 33 Footlight Circle, Meredith, hosted by Meredith Public Library, 603-279-4303, Aug. 11, Little Lake Explorers, 9 – 11 a.m., Alton Bay Community Center, 58 Mt. Major Highway, Alton Bay, for newborn to age 7, free play, snack time, story time, music and more, parents must stay, pre-register by the Wed. before each event: littlelakeexplorersalton@gmail.com. (Also on Aug. 18 & 25)

Aug. 12, A Photographic Tour of Ashland, 7 – 8 p.m., Booster Clubhouse, 99 Main St., Ashland, www.ashlandnhhistory.org

Aug. 12, Blood Drive - Camp Do Good, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Granite VNA, 780 N. Main St., Laconia, 1-800-RED-CROSS, www.redcrossblood.org.

Aug. 12, Intermediate Watercolor, 1 – 3 p.m., 5-week course, with Stephanie McQuade, Lakes Region Art Gallery, 120 Laconia Rd, Suite #300, Tilton, 603-568-3761.

Aug. 12, Lecture Series, Arthur Krulewitz, MD CM – The Cuban Missile Crisis, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org.

Aug. 12, Monoprint Making (inspired by Squam Lake, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., art session to make monoprints, all ages welcome, pre-register early to secure a space: 603-968-7336, Squam Lakes Assoc., 534 US Rt. 3, Holderness, www.squamlakes.org

Aug. 12, Silent Film with Jeff Rapsis, 7 – 9 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895.

Aug. 12, Watercolor for Beginners, 10 a.m. – noon, 5-week course, with Stephanie McQuade, Lakes Region Art Gallery, 120 Laconia Rd., Suite #300, Tilton, 603-568-3761. Aug. 12, What’s Wild A Half-Century of Wisdom from the Woods and Rivers, 6 – 7 p.m., Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, 603-9687194.

Aug. 13, Dustin Lee Martin, music, 6 – 10 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net

Aug. 13, 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

Aug. 13, Music on the Lawn, Welles Stafford and Lighthouse Louie, 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. 13, 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. 13, Story Share, noon – 1 p.m., sharing local stories, tell a story, read a story from town narratives, bring your own lunch, or come and just listen, Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.

Aug. 13-17, Menopause, the Musical, Interlakes Theatre, 1 Laker Lane, Meredith, 603707-6035, www.interlakestheatre.com

Aug. 14, Animal Adaptations – Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 7 p.m., Loon Center, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-476-5666, www.loon.org

Aug. 14, Bobby Freedom, music, 6 – 10 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net

Aug. 14, Ecological Design for Bug and Pest Control, 6 – 7:30 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895.

Aug. 14, Lasagna Supper, 5:30 – 7 p.m., benefits Fellowship Missions, Hotchkiss Commons, 71 Main St., Union, info.: Betty at 603-473-2727.

Aug. 14, Sky Road, 6:30 p.m., free outdoor concert, 19 Mile Beach, Tuftonboro, hosted by Tuftonboro Parks & Recreation, info.: www.tuftonboronh.gov.

Aug. 14, Stories at the NH Boat Museum, 11 – 11:30 a.m., NH Boat Museum, Moultonborough Campus, 130 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough, 603-569-4554, www. nhbm.org

Aug. 15, Barn Bash, 6 – 9 p.m., live music by Red Daisy Revival, food, drinks and more, Squam Lakes Association, 534 US Rt. 3, Holderness, 603-968-7336, www.squamlakes. org

Aug. 15, Jim Tyrrell, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net

What’s UP

Aug. 15, 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. 15, 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. 15, Stories on the Farm, The Milkman’s Boy by Donald C. Hall, 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. 15, Story Hour with Moultonborough Public Library, 11 a.m. – noon, NH Boat Museum, Moultonborough Campus, 130 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough, info.: 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org

Aug. 15, Summer Reading Craft: Decorate Cupcakes, 2 – 3:30 p.m., ages 6 – 11, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895.

Aug. 15-17, Overlanding Expo, free, multi-day event, Gunstock, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com

Aug. 16, 42nd Annual Granite Man Triathlon, 9 a.m., - noon, Carry Beach, Forest Rd., Wolfeboro, 603-569-5639, https://www.wolfeboronh.us/parks-recreation/pages/ granite-kid-triathlon.

Aug. 16, April Cushman, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net

Aug. 16, Beginner Leather for Young Adults, ages 12-17, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., beginner class, with artist Molly Grant, at her studio, sign up by Aug. 11, League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920, http://meredith.nhcrafts.org/classes/

Aug. 16, Chris Bonoli, 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. 16, Cruise into the Wright, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org

Aug. 16, Exhibit and Open Hours at Tamworth History Center, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.

Aug. 16, From Landscape to Foodscape: Food Safety Workshop – Pickles, Chutneys and Relishes, 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org

Aug. 16, Gentleman’s Agreement, Meredith Public Library, 91 Main St., Meredith, 603279-4303, www.meredithlibrary.org

Aug. 16, Michael Vincent Band, 7 – 9 p.m., Friends of Wolfeboro Bandstand, Cate Park, Main St., Wolfeboro, www.wolfeborobandstand.org.

Aug. 16, Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb, 8:30 a.m., Mt. Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www. mt-washington.com.

Aug. 16, Squam Canoe Classic: Bass Fishing Tournament, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Squam Lakes Association, 534 US Rt. 3, Holderness, pre-register early to secure a space: 603968-7336, www.squamlakes.org

Aug. 16, Summer Music Series, John Irish, 2 - 5 p.m., Barrel Bar & Grille, Gunstock, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com

Aug. 16, Truck and Tractor Day, classic cars, refreshments available for purchase, NH Farm Museum, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 603-652-7840, www.nhfarmuseum. org.

Aug. 16 & 17, Mount Washington Valley August Craft Fair, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., exhibitors, handmade items galore, Joyce’s Craft Shows, free admission, held under tents, friendly, leashed dogs welcome, held at Schouler Park, 1 Norcross Circle, Rt. 16, N. Conway, 603-387-1510, www.joycescraftshows.com.

Aug. 17, Art Walk, 1 – 4 p.m., art and artisan work for sale at various locations around Rumney: Studio at 11 Mill, Byron G Merrill Library, Rumney Baptist Church, Sole Track Brewing, Shaneware Pottery, and on the Rumney Town Common, info.: rumneyartwalk@rumneyvillagestore.com

Aug. 17, Belknap County Day, 2 – 5 p.m., Barrel Bar & Grille, Gunstock, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com

Aug. 17, Session Americana, 7 pm, Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323 6169, www.thefarmstand.net

Aug. 17, Steve McBrian, music, 6 – 9 p.m., The Taphouse Lake Winnipesaukee, 18 Main St., Center Harbor, 603-250-8029, www.thetaphouse.net

Aug. 17, Watercolor Workshop, noon – 2 p.m., led by artist Pat Edsall, Castle in the Clouds, 586 Ossipee Park Rd., Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: www. castleintheclouds.org.

Aug. 18, Little Lake Explorers, 9 – 11 a.m., Alton Bay Community Center, 58 Mt. Major Highway, Alton Bay, for newborn to age 7, free play, snack time, story time, music and more, parents must stay, pre-register by the Wed. before each event: littlelakeexplorersalton@gmail.com. (Also on Aug. 25)

Aug. 18, Monarch Monitoring Mondays, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Pemi Oxbow Preserve, 129 NH Rt. 175, Holderness, free, registration required, join the caterpillar count, 603-9687194. (Also on Aug. 25)

Aug. 18, 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. 19, Anything Goes Collage Class, 1 – 4 p.m., ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, pre-register: 603-323-8041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com

Aug. 19, Family Film Fest: Frozen, 6 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com

Aug. 19, Lecture Series, Dr. Fred Johnson, III – Dentist Under Fire: The Heroism of Ben Salomon, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, admission/reservations: 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org.

Aug. 19, Spinning and Fiber Arts Gathering at Belknap Mill, 10 a.m. – noon, bring a fiber arts project to work on, free, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-5248813, www.belknapmill.org. (Also on Aug. 26, Sept. 2, 9, 16 & 23.)

Aug. 19, Stories Behind the Stars, with teacher, storyteller and outdoorsperson Matt Krug, 7:30 p.m., at Charlotte C. Browne woods, Chocorua, please pre-register: www. chocorualake.org/events. Rain date: Aug. 20.

Aug. 20, Alton Market on Main, farmers market, noon – 3 p.m., 115 Main St., Alton, complete schedule: www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-519-8264.

Aug. 20, Climate & Community Book Discussion, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.

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, 513-519-8264.

Art & Coffee Club, Thursdays, 9 – 11 a.m., Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.

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, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays, 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, 603476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.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.

Country Village Quilt Guild, meets twice monthly, Public Safety Building (back entrance to Police and Fire Dept.), Rte. 25, Moultonborough, countryvillagequilters@gmail.com. Cruise Night, 5 – 7 p.m., Thursdays, 50/50 raffle, prizes, Tilt’n Diner, 61 Laconia Rd., Tilton, 603-455-7631.

Exhibit: Lucknow’s Laborers: The People Who Built and Cared for Tom Plant’s Estate, Castle in the Clouds Carriage House (gallery), Rt. 171, 455 Old Mountain Rd., Moultonborough, www.castleintheclouds.org

Family Crafts at the Belknap Mill Museum, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., third Saturday, drop-in event, free, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill. org.

Fiber Arts Monthly Mingle, first Tues. of every month, 6 – 8 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

First Fridays Receptions, June through Dec., 5-7 p.m., refreshments, conversation & art, ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, 603-323-8041, www. chocoruaartworks.com

Franklin Farmers Market, Thursdays from 3 – 6 p.m., through Sept. 11, Marceau Park, Central St., Franklin, 603-934-2118, email: franklinmarketinfo@gmail.com.

Freedom Village Store, variety of goods from artisan items to baked goods and more, 11 Elm St., Freedom, call for info/hours: 603-539-3077, www.freedomvillagestore.org.

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

In the Round, 8:45 a.m., Sundays, thought-provoking topics related to tolerance, Benz Center, Sandwich, 603-284-7211.

Kirkwood Gardens, free, open to public year round, Rt. 3, Holderness, tour the gardens, www.nhnature.org, 603-968-7194.

Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., meets second and fourth Wednesday of each month, First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net

Lake Winnipesaukee 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

Laverack Nature Trail at Hawkins Brook, nature trail on boardwalk, free, trail starts to the left of Meredith Village Savings Bank, Rte. 25, Meredith, 603-279-9015.

League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, handmade crafts and art for sale, workshops, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920.

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, 603-4765666, 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 less, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www. ossipee.recdesk.com.

Market on Main, farmers market, every other Wed., through Oct. 1, noon - 3 p.m., 115

What’s UP

Main St., Alton, complete schedule: www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-519-8264.

Meredith Community Market, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., 1 Burton Drive, off Rt. 104, Meredith, free admission, 603-409-2871, www.meredithcommunitymarket.com.

Meredith Public Library Bookstore, run by Friends of the Meredith Library, open weekly: Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Thurs. & Fri. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., lower level, Meredith Public Library, 91 Main St., Meredith, 603-279-4303, www.meredithlibrary.org.

Model Yachting, 1 – 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.

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 midSept., 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.

Outdoor Nature-Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.

Plymouth Historical Museum and Memory House, Saturdays 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., through November and by chance or appointment, exhibits, research information, Old Webster Courthouse, One Court St., Plymouth, 603-536-2337, info@plymouthnhhistory.org.

Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Call ahead for event information and to inquire if program pre-registration is necessary: 603-366-5695.

Quilting Group, 1 - 4 p.m., meets every 2 weeks, Ossipee Public Library, 74 Main St., Ossipee, schedule/info: 603-539-6390.

Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, farmstead events, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org.

Roller Skating Night, 5 p.m., Mondays, bring your own skates, age 18 and up, Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, info/updates: 603-539-1307, www.ossipee.org

Sailing Lessons, youth & adult, Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, 25 Davis Rd., Gilford, schedule/pre-register: 603-589-1177, www.lwsa.org

Second Saturday Contradance, Tamworth Outing Club, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, admission charged, info.: Amy Berrier at 603651-5800 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., through Oct. 4, fresh produce, meats and artisan crafts, through Oct. 5, Weirs Community Park, 49 Lucerne Ave., Weirs Beach, email: bamm-nh.org., www.themarketatweirs.com

Tilton Farmers Market, Tuesdays, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., next to Police Dept. building, 45 Sanborn Rd., Tilton, Rt. 132, free admission, 603-409-2871, www.tiltonfarmersmarketnh. com

Tuftonboro Country Bluegrass and Gospel Jam, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Tuesdays, donation requested, Old White Church, Rte. 109A, Center Tuftonboro, across from Tuftonboro General Store, 603-569-3861.

Wolfeboro Farmers Market, Thursdays, noon – 3:30 p.m., The Nick Recreation Park, 10 Trotting Track Rd., Rt. 28, Wolfeboro, email: wolfeborofarmersmarket@gmail.com, www.wolfeborofarmersmarket.com.

Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets Wednesdays, 4 – 6 p.m., in basement of All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603-520-5651. 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 Yoga on the Lawns of Lucknow, 6 – 7 p.m., Mondays until Aug. 25, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org

Donations Needed for Gilford Community Church Fair & Silent Auction

There are white elephant items, from vases to fine china, tools, and, now and then, an antique or painting that looks great over the mantle. There are all sorts of books, toys, jewelry, delicious baked goods (a favorite are the homemade pies), fried dough, burgers, and more.

Topping off the Gilford Community Church Fair’s over 100 silent auction items, including a Lake Winnipesaukee Cruise for 12 on the classic 50’ 1947 Shain Airflow Trimmership Yacht “Gypsy.”

Among the most beloved of events in the Lakes Region is the annual Gilford Community Church Fair & Silent Auction, which takes place during Gilford Old Home Day. This year’s Fair will

take place Friday, Aug. 22, from 4 to 6:30 pm, and Saturday, Aug. 23, from

8 am to 1 pm inside and outdoors at the church at Potter Hill Road in Gilford village.

Donations are now being accepted for white elephant items, silent auction, jewelry, and toys. If you are cleaning out a summer cottage, downsizing, or simply have some jewelry or other white elephant items in good, clean condition, you can drop them off in the lobby of the Gilford Community Church on Potter Hill Rd in Gilford village.

The Silent Auction committee welcomes business gift certificates for restaurants, lodging, and many other categories, as well as ski passes, condo stays, and quality furniture, to name but a few things you can donate. These items can be dropped off at the Church office Monday - Thursday, 8:30 am to 2 pm.

Smooth. Sophisticated. Unforgettable. Peter Cincotti

Brings it All—and Then Some

A genre-defying pianist, singer, and songwriter, Cincotti has captivated audiences around the world with his magnetic blend of jazz, pop, and soul. Now, he’s lighting up the stage in Wolfeboro for one night only.

This unforgettable show is in Anderson Hall, Brewster Academy, Wolfeboro, from 7:30 – 9 pm, on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

From smoky ballads to high-energy originals, Cincotti moves seamlessly

from the keyboard to the mic, keeping audiences on their toes and hanging on every note. It’s part concert, part conversation, part masterclass in charm. Whether you are a longtime fan or discovering him for the first time, this performance promises stories, surprises, and a sound that’s entirely his own. Don’t miss your chance to see one of modern music’s most distinctive voices live. Tickets are moving fast, and can be purchased at greatwaters.org.

An outdoor space to share the things that matter most.

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History in Motion: The Wright Museum’s Tribute to the Greatest Generation

By Mike Moore

There are many museums and historical sites throughout New England that educate visitors about the Revolutionary War times. But for those interested in learning more about the World War II era, the Wright Museum, located right in Wolfeboro along Route 28, has provided the perfect place to discover how this monumental segment of our history has impacted society throughout the decades and today.

The Wright Museum is difficult to overlook when driving along Route 28. The life-sized M3A1 Stuart tank bursting out of the front of the building alongside the road serves as an excellent indicator for museum goers to know they’ve arrived. The eye-catching entrance is just the first glimpse of what the museum has to offer. There are a multitude of other fully functioning military vehicles, and in addition, there are over 20,000 pieces of memorabilia and artifacts for visitors to explore and learn more about. What makes the Wright Museum stand out from other museums devoted to WWII history is how it provides the historical perspective of wartime from the home front as well as the battlefields. The unique concept was the idea of the museum’s founder, David Wright.

For decades before opening the museum in 1994, Wright had a passion for learning all about the war that his father fought in when he was a child. What he enjoyed most was purchasing and restoring vintage military vehicles from that era, and throughout many

years of lending his extensive vehicle collections to parades, museums, and even West Point, he felt the need to have a permanent place for anyone to explore his collection and gain a comprehensive perspective on WWII and the “Greatest Generation”.

More than 30 years later, the museum continues to honor its mission “to provide a vivid perspective on the

profound and enduring impact of the World War II experience on American society”. From the beginning of May through the end of October, the Wright Museum is open seven days a week for the public to visit, and they are always welcoming schools, camps, and after-school programs to book a group visit.

Four popular exhibits are permanent-

ly on display at the museum, with an additional fifth exhibit area that changes themes seasonally. The museum has so much to offer that one of its permanent exhibits extends to the outdoors. Museum goers can stroll along the building’s exterior and observe The Homecoming, a statue created honoring the moment of a soldier coming home to his family, visit the Remembrance and Victory Gardens, or get an up-close look at the WWII tank along the front wall. In the Military Gallery exhibit, the beautifully restored military vehicles line the area, with the collection including jeeps, tanks, and motorcycle models used by the military of that time. Beyond the motorized memorabilia, visitors can see collections of uniforms from all branches of the armed forces, weapons used during that era, and a detailed history behind all the artifacts.

Life and society stateside are equally on display at the Wright Museum. In their Home Front Gallery, life-size replicas of the family kitchen in a typical home and a local soda fountain shop from the 1940s give a glimpse into how life at home was during the war. At the Time Tunnel permanent exhibit, visitors can explore artifacts and displays dedicated to the pop culture of the time. With various video and audio stations to add to the historical perspective, visitors often feel like they’ve stepped back in time when walking • Wright Museum continued on page 21

Sunflower Natural Foods Market: Your Ticket to Health Foods and Products

By Mark Okrant

You may be one of those people who face an uphill battle trying to eat foods that others consider “normal.” As the father of a daughter who has numerous food intolerances and almost no outside sources for healthy alternatives, our family seemed to forever be searching for miracles. Several days ago, my editor at The Laker assigned me to investigate the Sunflower Natural Foods market. Located at 390 South Main Street in Laconia, the market appears to offer many of the answers families like ours have been seeking.

The Sunflower market was founded by a single woman in 1986, on Canal Street, less than a mile from its current location. The store has changed owners on two occasions through the years, finally being purchased by Paul Flynn in 2015. Flynn moved it to its current location, utilizing one-half of the present structure during the early years. Under Flynn’s ownership, the building interior was substantially renovated, and the market expanded to include the back half of the entire structure.

Based upon the market’s mission statement, it “takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, by offering a variety of health products that treat the mind and body” of patrons. Their solution is to heal the body naturally, without relying on industrially produced pharmaceuticals. More simply stated, the market’s mission is to keep the surrounding community healthy. Toward that end, the store carries a remarkable

range of products, especially given the size of the facility. This includes herbal supplements, grocery items, health and beauty items, bulk foods, bulk herbs and spices, as well as a range of gift items for all ages.

Upon entering the market, we were greeted by a very enthusiastic, knowledgeable young woman named Emma Fabian. With three years of experience working in the market, Emma was able to provide information about the sources of products carried in the store. She informed us that most of what the market carries is obtained from local vendors. Sunflower Natural Foods works through KeHe, a national distributor for grocery stores that focuses on organic/natural, fresh, and specialty products. According to David Dyer, one of the market’s managers, Chasing Birds Bread, a local baker who works out of their home, provides the single best-selling item. Dyer agreed with Emma’s assessment that supplements and bulk items are extremely attractive to the market’s customer base.

To assure that the market is able to sell its products at the lowest possible prices, it works with INFRA, a purchasing cooperative comprised of independent organic and natural food and wellness retailers serving hundreds of communities in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico. The market is constantly attempting to lower prices, even while facing the present threat from tariffs.

While we were in the market, we

saw evidence of both the effort to keep prices at a reasonable level and management’s commitment to personal service. Customers left the store with purchases that cost them less than one might have expected, given the size and nature of this business. Also, we took note of the fact that the market offers a Reusable Bag Loyalty Card: this provides a ten percent discount on one item (customer’s choice) for bringing one’s own bags into the store. Also, Sunflower offers a ‘Wisdom Discount’ of 5 percent to its customers aged sixty-five and older. Furthermore, we learned that the entire staff of ten employees, from general manager Amanda Cheney to the store clerks, go above and beyond to deliver items to customers in need. Dyer himself has offered to meet frail people outside on the sidewalk so they can avoid having to walk up the steps into the market.

Asked about plans for the future, the management staff pointed toward a produce cooler that died a couple of years ago. While the cooler wasn’t a principal money maker, the staff feels that a new cooler will provide food options that have been missing since the cooler failed. Another very strong interest is in returning education courses to the store. These would include healthy snack making and wellness, among others. When one looks at all of the products and services provided at the Sunflower Natural Foods market, it is immediately apparent that the management team and staff have a very strong commitment to the health and welfare of the community. Sunflower Natural Foods market is open Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm, and on Saturday, from 9 am to 4 pm. The store is closed on Sundays. Telephone (603) 524-6334.

tion of organic vegetables and flowers. Like Sunflower, this family farm offers excellent prices. Their produce can be obtained at either the local farm stand or at the Contoocook Farmer’s Market. For more information, telephone (603) 219-0297.

Wolfeboro Food Coop: A Natural Food Market is situated at 6 Varney Road in Wolfeboro. This market is an excellent place to purchase local, organic, and natural products. They specialize in bulk purchases and are a very important supporter of local growers. Among the types of produce that are offered at the coop are meats, seafood, eggs, dairy, bread, maple syrup, mead, jelly, and homeopathic remedies. Besides local farms, many of their products are obtained from vendors situated throughout the remainder of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. Days and hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, from 9 am -5:30 pm; also on Sundays between July 6-August 31, from 12 – 4 pm.

In addition, residents and visitors to downtown Concord have become familiar with the Concord Food Co-op, situated at 24 South Main Street. Numerous patrons have joined as co-op members, which entitles households to a number of exclusive sales. Like the other markets on this list, the Coop provides customers with access to a wide range of products, with an emphasis on local production. One of the outstanding elements of the Concord Co-op is its prepared food, including a hot bar, soups, and grilled paninis. It is no accident that the parking lot on South Main Street is generally full during hours of operation: Monday through Saturday from 8 am -7 pm, and Sunday from 9 am – 6 pm.

Fortunately, there are several other natural food market options within central New Hampshire. Work Song Farm, situated at 124 Beach Hill Road in Hopkinton, offers an excellent selec-

Each of these wonderful natural food markets provides an important alternative to the food choices provided by big box supermarkets and restaurants situated throughout the state.

Play with Color: Fabric Dyeing Workshops at Makers Mill August 20–22

Get ready to splash, fold, and dye! Makers Mill is hosting three handson fabric dyeing workshops this August with fiber arts extraordinaire Jeanne Flanagan. Take one— or all three—for a colorful few days of creative exploration.

Wed, Aug 20, from 1–4 pm, Fabric Dyeing: Colors, Shades & Hues. Mix primaries into custom palettes and dye quilting cotton, tees, and repurposed linens that you can later

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through this part of the museum. This year, the Wright Museum will have two temporary exhibits to offer its patrons. During the summer months, the exhibit will cover the Cold War Era. Included in the display will be items loaned to the museum from the International Spy Museum, as well as several audio and visual presentations. For the fall months, the exhibit Those Who Cared for Those Who Served will honor the medical and religious contributions to the war effort. Medics risking their lives on the battlefield, nurses and doctors caring for the wounded back home, and the chaplains helping the war effort on site and back in the US are all highlighted.

The artifacts and memorabilia on display throughout the various exhibits are so renowned that the Wright Museum has been nationally recognized for the expansive collection of authentic items. Military gear like canteens, compasses, and cartridge belts, in addition to the weaponry and uniforms, are particularly popular items from the war. From their home front collection,

turn into quilts, garments, or upcycled projects.

Thu, Aug 21, from 1–4 pm, Fabric Dyeing: Shibori. Learn foldand-dye techniques inspired by traditional Japanese Shibori. Try eye-dropper applications, scrunch dyeing, and more to create striking patterns.

Fri, Aug 22, from 1–4 pm, Ice-Dyeing Fabric. Fold your fabric, layer on dye powder and ice,

original copies of Good Housekeeping, War Department pamphlets, and even old copies of war bonds are just some of the authentic pieces of history found on display. This robust collection wasn’t gathered solely by the Wright family and museum staff, much of the memorabilia has been donated by donations from other museums and private citizens with American military and pop culture-themed artifacts from the 40s.

Education and preservation have been the primary focuses of the Wright Museum. In addition to the museum being open to the public daily, they also offer a series of lectures on all topics related to the WWII period. Lectures featuring special guests are offered almost weekly throughout the summer and fall. The museum’s website has the full list on its events calendar. Carrying on an appreciation for the WWII era’s “Greatest Generation” by educating the next generations is at the forefront of their efforts. They offer an interactive and immersive experience for school and youth groups that come in for a tour. Their website offers four curriculums that structure the lessons

and let melting water create bold, unpredictable color bursts and splits—each piece truly one-of-akind.

All workshops take place outdoors on the covered back patio at Makers Mill, 23 Bay Street, Wolfeboro, NH. No experience needed. Youth ages 10+ welcome with signed waiver. Materials fees range from $5-$15 and are payable at the session. Register and get details at

according to the students’ grade level. The museum will even work with teachers in advance to customize a lesson plan for the students.

Since David Wright’s love of vintage cars was a major reason the Wright Museum exists today, the “Cruise in to the Wright!” antique car show is celebrating its 12th year on August 16. Those who purchase admission to the museum also have access to view the various antique cars and motorcycles that have cruised in for the special event.

Sharing their expansive collection

www.makersmill.org/events.

Makers Mill is a nonprofit makerspace and vocation hub offering hands-on classes, open studios, workforce training, and community programs that spark creativity and self-reliance. Free tours every Friday and the first Saturday of the month at 10 am.

of memorabilia from both sides of the pond during the Second World War has been a welcome attraction to both residents and vacationers for over three decades. Discounts are offered to military and seniors, and children under four are admitted for free. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and on Sundays from noon to 4 pm, the Wright Museum is a terrific place to bring the entire family to learn about and celebrate such an important and pivotal time in American history.

By Chef Kelly Ross

Well, we’re approaching the middle of August; kids and teachers are getting ready to start thinking about going back to school. Though summer is coming to an end shortly, we still have plenty of good cooking ahead of us. Judging by the many emails I received regarding additional berry recipes, that is our theme for the day. I have a weakness for those of you who relayed to me that you are berry pickers looking for new ways to use them, as berry picking is a huge reminder of my Grammy Judy, who dragged me through many fields and meadows with buckets in hand, grabbing all berries in sight. Most of the time, I didn’t want to go, but once she started baking those delicious treats loaded with those little buggers, I knew it was all worthwhile. Today, I have 2 great desserts and a very unique and amazing sandwich, but first, let’s talk about some berry breakfasts.

Let’s start off with some raspberries and cream cheese to produce one of my favorite coffee cakes I’ve ever sunk my teeth into. I make this in a 9-inch springform cheesecake pan, and as a result, the appearance of the final product is as good as the flavor, which is so good. This is very moist and will have your family smiling and your friends

asking for the recipe. This will get you 10-12 slabs of goodness. If the cake itself isn’t great enough, the streusel topping puts it over the top. Prep time is 15-20 minutes, and baking time is 45 minutes or so. If there are any leftovers, depending on your crowd size, I suggest refrigerating them.

Raspberry Cream Cheese

Coffee Cake

For The Filling

¼ cup sugar

8 oz cream cheese, room temp

1 egg white, save the yolk for the next step

1 cup raspberries, washed, welldrained and patted dry

For The Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

5 ½ tbsp unsalted butter, room temp

½ cup sugar

1 egg plus 1 egg yolk

¾ cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping

1/3 cup sugar

½ cup flour

3 tbsp butter, cold and cubed

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9-inch spring form pan, line the bottom with 9-inch circle of parchment paper, and spray with pan release. Set aside. For the filling, mix the cream cheese and sugar on medium-low speed until creamy. Add egg white and mix on low just to combine. Set aside. For the cake batter, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl and set aside. With an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar on medium-low speed. Add egg and egg yolk, and vanilla. Slowly mix in the flour mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth with a spatula.

Pick, Bake, Repeat: Berries and Blondies for Late Summer Bliss

Spread the cream cheese filling on top. Place raspberries onto cream cheese filling. As for the topping, combine sugar, flour and chilled cubed butter in a bowl. Stir with a fork or pastry blender until the mixture, making sure it is crumbly as pea-sized is the goal. Sprinkle the streusel on top of raspberries. Bake for 40-45 minutes until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a rack, run a thin knife around the cake, and loosen the ring of the springform pan. It’s a fun way to start the day or as a snack later. This next one is much more of a true

• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 23

breakfast item: a blueberry French toast bake. Most French toast bakes are prepped and panned the night before, but not this one, although you can prep some of it and just put it together in the morning. If you want to, you can make the custard the day before, as well as the topping, and cube the bread and refrigerate it all until it’s time to put it all together. Pure maple syrup is always a huge suggestion to as opposed to the fake stuff, but that is up to you. As another option, you can make a lemon drizzle over the top of the final product using fresh lemon juice with confectioners’ sugar. This will feed 8 in the morning, and plan on this taking you 15 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to bake. I usually serve this with sausage patties. I compare this dish to a combo between a traditional French toast bake and a blueberry cream cheese Danish. Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Bake

For The French Toast

1 loaf French bread or a loaf of Texas toast

8 eggs

2 cups milk

½ cup heavy cream, although half and half will work

¼ cup sugar

½ cup brown sugar

1 ½ tbsp pure vanilla extract

2 tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

8 oz cream cheese cut into 16 pieces

1 pint blueberries, washed and dried

For The Brown Sugar Topping

½ cup flour

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp salt

½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small squares

Spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray and preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, add the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Chop the bread into ¾ – 1 inch cubes and put it in the bowl with the egg mixture and toss well until all the liquid is absorbed. Pour half of the bread and egg mixture into the pan, top with half of the cream cheese and blueberries. Pour over the remaining bread mixture, then top with the remaining cream cheese and blueberries, and bake for 45 minutes or so until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Have some pure maple syrup warming up on the stove to finish it off once serving, as well as the easy lemon glaze if that is your thing. Wicked Yummy!

Although I have a few dozen incredibly fun grilled cheese sandwiches in my repertoire, which I will save to share this winter, there is one that is perfect for summer: stuffed full of blackberries, although subbing a different berry will most definitely work well. It’s a little on the decadent side as far as grilled cheese sandwiches go, but truly, these are amazing. The cheeses I use are brie and goat, and when combined with the blackberries, some balsamic glaze, and some fresh basil, you will be blown away. This is for 4 incredible grilled cheese sam-

miches you may need to eat with your pinkies out. You can have these made in 15 minutes easily.

Balsamic Blackberry Bliss Grilled Cheese

8 slices artisan, ciabatta, or quality oatmeal or wheat bread

4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

2 cups fresh blackberries

2-3 tbsp balsamic glaze

2 tsp honey

8 oz brie cheese, sliced

4 oz goat cheese

2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped ½ tsp black pepper

For the blackberry filling, in a small bowl, gently mash the blackberries with a fork. Mix in the balsamic glaze, honey, and black pepper, and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Like any grilled cheese sandwich, spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of the bread slices, layer slices of brie cheese, then

spoon the blackberry mixture over the brie. Sprinkle with fresh basil and add goat cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outward. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted. Slice in half and serve warm. Optionally, drizzle with additional balsamic glaze for extra richness. This may be the best grilled cheese you have ever had. OK, it’s officially dessert time. If you are a fan of blueberries, raspberries combined with a lemon chiffon mentality, you’ll fall in love with this meal closer, or as a midday treat. This is a cool and dreamy no-bake dessert that is so perfect on a hot summer day. Besides the yummy berries, you will need lemon Jello with some frozen whipped

• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 24

Climate & Community Book Discussion: Fire Weather

Humans have lived with, benefited from, and sometimes been at risk from fire for thousands of years. In this era of frequent wildfires, it’s time to deepen our understanding of this element that can cook our food, heat our homes, and also cause hard-to-imagine destruction.

Please join Cook Memorial Library and Chocorua Lake Conservancy on Wednesday, August 20, at 6:30 pm at Cook Library in Tamworth for a Climate & Community Book Discussion. We’ll talk about the book Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World, by John Vaillant. Fire Weather is available at Cook Library, or try your local library!

Dylan Alden, Dispersed Recreation Manager for the US Forest Service Saco Ranger District, and Jessie Dubuque, USFS wildlife biologist for

• ‘Cue the Grill continued from page 23

topping and cream cheese on a graham cracker crust that will be guaranteed to create a boatload of smiles. Although this only takes 20-25 minutes to make, you will need to let it set under refrigeration for a minimum of 4 hours, or as I usually do, I make it the day before I serve it. You’ll get 12-15 portions from this. This will always be a winner for you.

Double Berry Lemon Chiffon Dessert

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, about 24-28 squares

1 1/3 cups sugar, divided 1 stick of butter, melted

1 ½ cups fresh blueberries, divided

½ - ¾ cup fresh raspberries

1 package lemon gelatin, 3 oz

1 cup boiling water

12 oz cream cheese, room temp

1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

Saco Ranger District, will be on hand to answer questions and show some of the equipment they use when they support wildland firefighting efforts in the western United States.

Winner of the Baillie Gifford Prize for Nonfiction, Fire Weather was also a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, the National Book Award for Nonfiction, and

16 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed

Combine cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and the butter. Save 4 tbsp of the mixture for later and press the remaining crumb mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of blueberries. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water, stirring to dissolve, then cool. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and the remaining 1 cup sugar. Add vanilla, mixing well. Slowly add cooled dissolved gelatin. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over blueberries. Refrigerate, covered, until set, 3-4 hours. Top with reserved crumb mixture, raspberries, and remaining blueberries. If you end up with any leftovers, refrigerate. It’s a winner!

Yup, once again, I end the day with my favorite recipe of the day, slightly above the grilled cheese I shared earlier. I have mentioned over the years how much I love blondies over brownies in

the Pen/Galbraith Award for Nonfiction, and a best book of the year for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New Yorker, TIME, NPR, Slate, and Smithsonian Fire Weather is the account of a colossal wildfire in Canada and a wide-reaching examination of the rapidly changing relationship between fire and humans. Robert MacFarlane, the

a landslide, thanks to my Grammy, and when combined with strawberries, Oh My, it’s a beautiful thing. Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. They are topped with a luscious glaze that makes for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy gathering with friends. This has a great combo of lemon, vanilla, and almond extracts, which creates a flavor blend for the ages. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but if strawberries aren’t your thing, blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped peaches will work incredibly well in this recipe. Prep and cooking time combined is in the 1-hour range, and this is made in a 9x9 pan, which usually gives me 9 pieces of goodness.

Strawberry Lemon Blondies

For The Blondies

2 sticks butter, room temp

¾ cup sugar

bestselling author of Underland, says it “Grips like a philosophical thriller, warns like a beacon, and shocks to the core.” David Wallace-Wells calls it “Riveting, spellbinding, astounding on every page.”

John Vaillant is the best-selling, award-winning author of several nonfiction books and a novel. He has written for the New Yorker, The Atlantic, National Geographic, and others. He lives in Vancouver.

This free program is part of the CML/ CLC series “Climate & Community.” Please register in advance via chocorualake.org/events, or tamworthlibrary.org, or just show up! Copies of the book are available at Cook Library, and check your local library, too. The Cook Library is wheelchair accessible.

2 strawberries, or 1 tsp seedless strawberry jam

1 egg

1 egg yolk

¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 tsp lemon extract

1 tbsp almond extract

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 cup diced strawberries

1 tbsp lemon zest

½ cup white chocolate chips

For The Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp lemon juice

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp lemon extract

½ tsp almond extract

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 9×9-inch square pan with cooking spray, then lightly flour. Cream the butter and sugar together for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the egg and egg yolk, beating for another 2-3 minutes. Mix in the lemon juice and lemon and almond extracts, beating for an additional minute. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the diced strawberries, lemon zest, and white chocolate chips. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring it fills the corners. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking. Cool the pan on a wire rack. For the glaze, blend 2 strawberries in a food processor, then strain through a sieve. Alternatively, use 1 tsp seedless strawberry jam. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and all three extracts with the strawberry purée. If the glaze is too thick, add a tsp of water or more lemon juice, and if it is too runny, add more sugar. Once the squares have cooled, spread the glaze evenly on top. Slice, serve, and enjoy! Thanks for reading, my friends, and I hope you all enjoy today’s options. Until next time, keep your taste buds happy and smiling, and if you care to reach out with any questions or feedback, please touch base at fenwaysox10@gmail.com

Yesteryear

A Village Reborn: How Hill, NH Moved, Rebuilt, and Preserved Its Sense of Community

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

In the 1800s, rural Hill was just another sleepy village in New Hampshire. Probably most people in the north country or even in the southern part of the state didn’t know about the village located between Bristol and Franklin (two larger communities).

Today, the original town of Hill is just cart paths and fading roads, and if you can find them, a few cellar holes to attest to what once was a busy area. Also still visible are traces of a field here and there and paths leading to the nearby river.

Should there be confusion, Old Hill Village, as it is now known, was the original town, but moved to higher ground due to yearly flooding. The present-day town of Hill is still in existence.

Hill was first settled on the banks of the Pemigewasett River and incorporated in 1778. Called New Chester, the town was part of 30,000 acres that included what are now the towns of Hill, Bristol, Bridgewater, and a small portion of Wilmot and Danbury. The name of New Chester was changed in the late 1830s to Hill in honor of New Hampshire Governor Isaac Hill.

The current Hill Village, located on Route 3A between Bristol and Franklin, is a peaceful community. Contrary to what happens in most flooded areas, the village residents in the original Hill didn’t give up on their town and move to other communities after the 1930s floodwaters. Instead, they relocated the entire village to higher ground; the decision put Hill Village on the map as one of the first model communities in the United States.

(Old) Hill Village was once a lovely community by the banks of the Pemigewasset (Pemi) River. A train ran near the town and small businesses thrived. The main street was the thoroughfare between Bristol and Franklin and lined with magnificent elm trees. Businesses included a chair factory, a dowel factory, and a railroad station, as well as stores carrying food and clothing.

Villagers attended one of two large churches, and children walked a short

distance to the local school. There was a library and a town hall, and townspeople enjoyed community gatherings, church suppers and holiday festivals.

Homes were well built and some were quite large, attesting to the success of area businessmen. Old photographs of those homes show sprawling places, such as the John Huse house, built around 1800 with a huge barn connected to the large house, as pictured in The Story of Hill, New Hampshire by Dan Stiles.

A lesser-known fact about Old Hill Village is the Golden Rule Farm, established in 1871 as an offshoot of the New Hampshire Orphans’ Home. (The Home was originally part of the estate owned by Daniel Webster’s family and the place where the famous statesman was raised.)

The Orphan’s Home was established by Rev. Daniel Augustus Mack, who had been orphaned at age seven. According to an article titled “Golden Rule Farm Served as a State’s ‘Boys Town’ ” by Thomas P. Caldwell, the reverend was a chaplain during the Civil War. Mack was often asked by injured or dying soldiers to look after their children. He took those requests seriously; thus an orphanage was established, and its board of directors purchased the Webster farm.

Fast-forward to 1901 when Rev.

George W. Buzzell was gifted the 100acre Roberts Farm in Hill in 1901. Rev. Buzzell established a cottage-style housing arrangement for orphans and taught them life skills. In 1914, it was joined to the Golden Rule Homestead, which increased the size of the property to 400 acres, becoming the Golden Rule Farm.

The farm was located in the Pemigewasset Valley, sandwiched between Hill and Franklin. Rather than live in larger orphanages or on the streets, the Golden Rule gave orphans a healthy farm life. The manner in which the children ended up at the farm varied, but some early stories listed being born to an unwed mother (very shameful for mother and child at that time) or when a widowed father could not care for a child. Some young children were left on the doorstep of the farm or a church.

Eventually, the Golden Rule Farm took in boys who needed discipline and a steady life. The boys, of all ages,

were the product of hardship and were known at the time as “juvenile delinquents”. They were arrested for theft, fighting or other run-ins with the law. The Golden Rule had good results and used a caring approach when dealing with those who lived on the farm.

Along with every building or business in Old Hill Village, the Golden Rule Farm had to relocate when the flood control Franklin Falls Dam was built in 1939. The Golden Rule moved onto property at the Boynton and Holquist farms in Northfield.

The event that led to the town being moved probably started on a spring day. The tranquility in the village got a big jolt in March of 1936. Everyone in town knew that flood waters from area streams and the Pemigewasset River were especially high. Flooding was not anything new for Hill residents. Indeed, on some years springtime melt meant ice from the river could back up into the town, sometimes with loss of property and danger to Hill’s citizens. When the alarm sounded, townspeople grabbed what they could and dashed to higher ground. Luckily, the flood never came because it was a false alarm.

Soon after the false alarm/scare, Frederick Clark, of the New Hampshire State Planning and Development Committee, visited Hill. Clark had heard of flooding problems in the area, and he was aware the state wanted to buy Hill Village for a flood control project. Clark may have wondered if the village could be moved. He thought it had potential to become a model town, with centrally located businesses and homes. It was a plan ahead of its time,

• Yesteryear continued on page 27

Generations Of Joy Continue At Clark’s Bears

By Thomas P. Caldwell

to see the bear shows at Clark’s Trading Post, “home of Clark’s Trained Bears and the White Mountain Central Railroad”.

The operation has grown from a roadside stand to an attraction that includes a seasonal circus performance, five museums, four specialty shops, children’s activities such as making candles or stuffed animals, a chance to “mine” for gemstones or fossils, a climbing tower (in the shape of the Old Man of the Mountain), and a train ride across a covered bridge into “Wolfman territory”.

It is not just the visitors who have generations of memories. The Clark family that founded the attraction still operates it today.

Carol Govoni, the granddaughter of the company founders, Florence and Edward Clark, and daughter of Edward M. Clark, who, with his brother, W. Murray Clark, established the bear shows, recalls assisting when she was five years old. Her job was to fetch ice cream for the bears — the treat that helped to keep them motivated during performances — but her father later told the story of having to pause the show so he could go find her, since she stayed with the ice cream.

This summer is the 77th season of the bear shows, and they still are a major feature, which explains why Clark’s Trading Post changed its name to Clark’s Bears. The shows currently are conducted by W. Murray Clark’s daughter, Maureen, his son, Murray, and Murray’s wife, Sylvia. Acting as announcer, Murray offers some history of the show and information about bears, while throwing in a few jokes — or attempts at jokes.

“We currently have an estimated population of wild bears that approaches 6,000 head, and they’re on the increase,” Murray said. “We’ll probably never know how many for sure,

though, because every time they hold a census, no one shows up.”

He said that the Fish and Game Department told him that the average life expectancy for a wild bear is between four to six years, “perhaps a bit longer, if they’re lucky”. Clark’s bears live longer, he said, due to a balanced diet and protective care. The oldest bear, Echo, is 22 years old, but the record-holder, Old Fella, lived to be 38 years and

seven months. Victoria, another older bear, died on March 7, 2022, at age 32.

The stars in 2025 are Darla, a cinnamon-colored black bear with a childlike personality focused on having fun, and Hildie is a high achiever who is always ready to learn something new.

“Hildie has a routine, and she generally tries to follow it and go, boom, boom, boom,” Maureen says. “Darla, she does some great tricks, some very great tricks with my brother, but once she’s done a certain amount, her free spirit takes over and she will lose her focus.”

June is a particularly difficult time to depend on bears holding their attention: It is mating season, or, as Murray says during the show, “We are in what we call the marriage season, and some of the bears have other things besides bear shows on their minds. It is rather difficult to do a good show this time of year; however, we’ll do our best, but we only make one guarantee, and that’s that the bears are going to have a good time. We’ll see to it.”

Sylvia recalled training the two performers as cubs. One of the first skills they learned was riding a scooter.

“It started out as them just standing on it, and Maureen would be in front with a spoon with some ice cream, and one of us would be holding the cub on the scooter and pushing. And then eventually you just get them to try to push themselves with a paw, a foot, and we just keep working on it over and over..… And they like to do it because they’re rewarded.”

One of the tricks they are working with Darla involves a barrel and a box. “We’re trying to get her to tumble the barrel to the correct spot and then put the box on top,” Sylvia said.

While that might seem unnatural, Sylvia noted that security cameras have caught Darla doing somersaults at night, when it was dark. “She was doing somersaults, and then she’d run over and pick up a stick and start trying to juggle it. We’ve been trying to teach her to juggle a barrel, because she showed great promise and interest in juggling things with her feet.”

In 1917, long before Florence and Ed Clark opened their roadside attraction for travelers passing through Lincoln on their way through the White Mountains, Ed’s uncle, who was in the fur trade, had sent him to Labrador to establish fur trading posts there. He was enchanted and fell in love with the Eskimo sled dog and, when he and Florence moved to Lincoln in 1928, they imported some of the dogs and established Ed Clark’s Eskimo Sled Dog Ranch.

At the time, it was an open-air stand selling primarily furs and maple products, with the dogs as an added attraction to entice travelers to stop by. They grew to feature guided tours of the pure-bred Eskimo sled dogs as well as artifacts from the far north, souvenirs, and tonic (soda).

When sons Edward M. and W. Murray Clark were born, the dogs were part of their lives.

“My uncle, Ed Clark, had traveled over 500 miles by dog team by the time he was one year old,” Maureen said.

Meanwhile, Al Morris, a friend of the Clarks, had been showing two bears, Jimmy and Cal, at another Lincoln attraction, Indian Head Estate (now Indian Head Resort). In 1931, the Clarks purchased Jimmy, their first black bear, as another way of gaining the attention of passers-by.

Maureen says the man with the bears

• Bears continued on page 27

Sylvia Clark stands by while Darla takes a drink. (Courtesy Photo)

iLuminate Lights Up Laconia: Award-Winning Dance and Tech Spectacle

The Colonial Theatre of Laconia will present iLuminate on Friday, October 3, at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available at ColonialLaconia.com or by calling 800-657-8774.

From the moment the lights fade to darkness, you are transported into another world…another dimension, where the music moves you and the visuals are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Welcome to the world of iLuminate, named “Best New Act in America” by America’s Got Talent in 2011. A fantastic fusion of cutting-edge technology and dance that has been wowing the world ever since appearing on AGT over a decade ago…to performing one of Las Vegas’ top shows to this day. iLuminate features a brilliant cast of the country’s top dancers performing to energetic music – including top Pop and Rock hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, a little jazz, a little Latin, a lit-

• Bears

continued from page 26

had them do a few tricks: “They would sell a drink, and the bear would hold it and drink, and that was basically the trick,” she said.

Young Edward and Murray, growing up with both Eskimo dogs and black bears, found that interest in the dogs was declining while people remained enthralled by the bears. In 1949, they

• Yesteryear continued from page 25

and Clark knew Hill residents might meet the idea with consternation or resistance.

The state of New Hampshire wanted to build a new flood control dam in Franklin at that time. The new dam would help the area during traditional flood times, but it would mean the end of Hill Village, because each time the dam waters backed up, the town would be completely flooded.

Work began on a new Franklin dam in July 1939. Clearly, the old village was doomed. Residents knew they must relocate or face moving to other towns.

As plans moved forward, once the majority of villagers decided to relocate to the new village, Hill selectmen thought the state of New Hampshire should reimburse Hill in a manner that would defray the cost of building anew. A bill was introduced that would see the state pay back any flooded New Hampshire village in the amount of three years’ lost taxes.

tle hip hop, and more. The dancers are outfitted with customized LED suits synced to iLuminate’s proprietary software to create extraordinary lighting effects with each of the phenomenally

decided to focus mainly the bears, teaching and training them for shows.

Always looking for ways to expand the attraction, the Clark brothers in the early 1950s began collecting steam locomotives, when diesels were rendering them obsolete for commercial railroads.

“The White Mountain Central Railroad was established, and that offered a little more to keep the people here and to keep them entertained,” Carol

The bill was at first voted down, but the selectmen did not give up, and finally, the bill was passed. Grant money was made available if 30 to 80 families agreed to relocate to the new village.

By June 1941, town offices and private homes were built in the new village, which was located on higher ground. Most people of the old village had been convinced to relocate to the new village. The old village was still standing, but already the many abandoned buildings and homes had taken on a ghost town aura. It wasn’t long before the government leveled all buildings. Nearly every spring, the cellar holes, sidewalks and streets of the old village were flooded when rain swelled the Pemi River and Franklin dam water backed up into the area.

Adding to the changes, the new Daniel Webster Highway was constructed and opened to traffic in the summer of 1941.

Thus, the village that could have been doomed was reborn, and its citizens managed to stay together.

choreographed dance moves. Tickets for iLuminate at the Colonial Theatre of Laconia on Friday, October 3, are available at ColonialLaconia.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774.

said. “We still had the dog kennels at that point.”

The train collection expanded to include steam locomotives by Climax, Heisler, Shay, and Porter. With the trains came the need for a railroad bridge, and in 1963, the Clarks dismantled a 1904 Howe-Truss covered bridge in East Montpelier, VT, transported it to Lincoln, and reassembled it over the Pemigewasset River. That allowed the White Mountain Central Railroad to cross into “Wolfman territory”.

According to Wolfman lore, he is a mountain man who laid claim to his side of the river and tries to scare peo-

The historic Colonial Theatre of Laconia was originally owned by Benjamin Piscopo, who was from Italy, and the theatre featured a fire curtain depicting Venice as seen from the water. In August of 2002, the theatre closed after 87 years of operation. On June 15, 2015, the City of Laconia announced a partnership with the Belknap Economic Development Council (BEDC) to purchase, renovate, and reopen the Colonial. The newly reopened Colonial Theatre has a seating capacity of 750 and plays host to various performances, including music, theatre, comedy, and civic events. Spectacle Management manages the Colonial Theatre and is home to the Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative. The Colonial Theatre is located at 609 Main Street, Laconia, NH 03246. www.coloniallaconia.com

ple away from his “Unobtanium” mine by shouting and firing a gun into the air as the train approaches.

“Don’t worry, kids,” the Clark’s Bears website says. “Wolfman will not try to cross the bridge because he is too afraid of heights. He will not cross underneath the bridge because he is more afraid of water! In fact, Wolfman is so afraid of water that he hasn’t taken a bath ... IN YEARS! You will be returned safely to the beautiful Victorian train station, where you can continue your day.”

For more information about Clark’s Bears, visit www.clarksbears.com.

Education Through Tourism: Saving Natural and Cultural Environs

By Mark Okrant

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” This quote by Benjamin Franklin is as important today as it was when he wrote it. Show a class of fifty students a map of the world, and most react with disinterest or boredom. Send these same fifty students out into the world; have them travel across seas and into distant lands… and their eyes will be opened. This is exactly how education works.

Simply defined, travel is moving from one place to another. As the term is used today, it means visiting other states, countries, or continents. It promotes cultural understanding in a way that cannot be attained by reading books, playing video games, or watching movies. When a young person visits Spain during Tomatina, or takes a trip to India in March to experience Holi, the Hindu festival that is celebrated as the Festival of Colors—it is virtually guaranteed that she or he will return changed permanently. Yes, that traveler—now dripping with the juices of ripe tomatoes or covered in red, green, and yellow colored powder— will return home with knowledge about more than what was just experienced. Rather, she/he will have gained an understanding of the geography, history, culture, religion, and interpersonal dynamics of the country just experienced. No textbook nor classroom course can accomplish that.

How many high schoolers have sat in a language class, frustrated because the verb conjugations made no sense or the vocabulary just wouldn’t ‘stick’? Traveling to another country is absolutely the best way to learn a language. What better incentive to learn a language that is not your own than to go to a marketplace and try to purchase an item, or to ask directions when you are hopelessly searching for a restroom, a restaurant, or any place of interest. It’s so much

easier to learn when all your ear hears is the language of the country visited.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of all comes from the goodwill that is spread, and the friendships made, as residents in the host country see a visitor respecting their culture and trying to speak the local language. It has been said that it’s hard to learn history in a vacuum.

Learning dates without any connection to concepts or events is nearly impossible. However, a visit to Chichén Itzá in Mexico or the pyramids in Egypt will bring those respective histories much clearer. One cannot fully understand the fear and devastation produced by the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, without visiting the memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Social scientists remind us that the world we now live in is a complex one. Social media feeds us a lot of (mis)information daily, and, because of this, we find ourselves hating or mistrusting one group or another, at times incorrectly. It has become all too easy to sit in the comfort of our living rooms and make verbal attacks on other countries, cultures, religions, or ethnicities. What is the best way to counteract this? Simply through travel.

Travel can be the great peacemaker

and educator—travel to another country and meet the citizens, learn their culture, study their history—more than likely hate and mistrust will turn to respect and appreciation. As Maya Angelou said, “Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.”

How can these simple lessons work in New Hampshire? Perhaps the best examples are to be found in educating both visitors and residents about the importance of protecting our natural environment. How often do we see people disrespecting our communities, woodlands, lakes, and rivers through various forms of mistreatment? Those plastic bottles and candy wrappers didn’t carry themselves along the roads and shorelines. The wakes created by motorboats traveling far above the speed limit will do more harm to a family of loons than any of nature’s predators. Is it really essential to leave a record of one’s visit by carving initials in the bark of a tree, or painting them on a rock that was put in place centuries ago by a glacier?

tions in the Lakes Region that play a vital role in this process. Two of these are the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center (SLNSC) and the Loon Center and Markus Wildlife Sanctuary. The mission of the SLNSC is to advance understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world. Through spectacular live animal exhibits, natural science education programs, guided Squam Lake Cruises, an informal public garden, and Blue Heron School, a nature-based Montessori early learning center, the Science Center has educated and enlightened visitors since 1966 about the importance of our natural world. The wild animals at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center are ambassadors of their species, here for the purpose of educating our visitors about New Hampshire’s natural world. Most are orphaned, injured, or otherwise unable to survive in the wild. Observing these animals up close, together with experiencing the hands-on exhibits, offers visitors the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the state’s native wildlife and appreciation of the natural world. Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, located on Route 113 in Holderness, is committed to maintaining captive, primarily non-releasable native wildlife to enhance education on our exhibit trails and in our programs.

The Loon Center and Markus Wildlife Sanctuary (LC&MWS). Located at 183 Lee’s Mill Road, in Moultonborough, LC&MWS features loon displays, mounts, interactive exhibits, and award-winning videos on loons. The non-profit Loon’s Feather Gift Shop sells “all things loon and more!” The 200-acre Markus Wildlife Sanctuary on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee has two miles of walking trails that overlook a nesting pair of loons. No admission is charged by the organization whose mission is to preserve this outstanding element of the New Hampshire ecosystem.

How does one best reach these human guests, and inform them that their actions not only degrade nature, but also ruin the experience for thousands of visitors that follow them? This is where the many environmental organizations in New Hampshire play a vital role in conserving, preserving, protecting, educating, and generally saving our beautiful state.

There are a number of tourism attrac-

Organizations and attractions such as these give us hope that our natural environment will be preserved for future generations of New Hampshire residents and visitors to appreciate. They are two of the centerpieces for the state’s efforts to combine tourism and education, a tradition that is centuries old.

Family Fun Makes for Enjoyable Evenings

Parents and children benefit when they spend quality time together. According to South University, children feel special when their parents take time to engage in fun activities with them. Routine activities and the occasional unusual outing can make for great bonding experiences.

The opportunities for families to have fun do not stop just because the sun sets. In fact, many different activities are tailor-made for family fun in the evening hours.

Backyard camping

Children can ease into the idea of camping by having the first overnight excursion take place in their own backyard. Set up a tent, light a campfire in the fire pit, and have fun experiencing the sights and sounds of outdoors at night. With close proximity to the bathroom, and an easy means of escaping the outdoors if bad weather sets in, backyard camping can be a safe way to learn some basic camping skills and experience a night under the stars.

Watch a movie

Turn an outdoor (or indoor) area into a theater to enjoy a family friendly film. Projectors are relatively inexpensive and some can hook up to smartphones, making them quite portable. Invite extended family and friends over for the ultimate movie night.

Host a scavenger hunt

Everyone in the family can take part in a scavenger hunt. Doing so in the dark can make the hunt a bit more challenging. Young children can be paired off with an older sibling or an adult for safety’s sake. Items to collect outdoors can include a garden stone, tree branch, pine cone, clover, or backyard accessory, like a grill brush. Curate the list so items can be found without too much exploring in the dark.

Star gazing

Learn about the galaxy, stars, solar system, and more by finding a dark place away from artificial lights to stare into the sky. Consult books about what you’re seeing, or rely on a phone app

Rumney, NH Art Walk Returns to Rumney Village

The planning committee for the Rumney, NH Art Walk is excited to announce the participants in this year’s art walk taking place on Sunday, August 17, 1-4 pm.

The following artists and craftspeople will have their artwork displayed and for sale at the following locations: Studio at 11 Mill, Byron G Merrill Library, Rumney Baptist Church, Sole Track Brewing, Shaneware Pottery, and on the Rumney Town Common: Marie Nolan-Mixed Media, Joan Turley-Watercolor, Richard Wetterer-Pottery, Sheila L Bonfiglio-Oil, Jane Pappe-Oil, Carol Cole-Watercolor, Carol Young-Basketry and Gourd Art, Lisa Famosi-Phillips -Mixed Media, Diane Moulton- Ceramics, Michelle McElroy-Oil Painting, Jane Mitch-

ell-Mixed Media, Anna Powers-Photography, Marguerite Bride-Watercolor, Justine Majeski-Stained Glass, Linda Gelda-Pottery, Diane Downing-Watercolor/Acrylic, Shannon Downing-Watercolor/Acrylic, Debbie Dostie-Bead Work, Cindi Gold-Buckskin Fiber, Kim Davis-Oil, Pastels, and Photography, Penny Huynen –Ceramics.

A map of the artists and their locations will be available at all participating locations. Visit all the vendors, have them initial the map, and receive a discount at Sole Track Brewing.

Follow the event on Facebook at Rumney, NH Art Walk. For more information, contact rumneyartwalk@ rumneyvillagestore.com.

that can identify celestial bodies and constellations. From meteor showers to eclipses, there are plenty of celestial events to engage star gazers. In 2025, the Parseids Meteor Shower will occur between August 12 and 13. On August 19, Mercury will be at the greatest western elongation, making this the best time to view the planet low in the eastern sky just before sunrise. On September 7, enthusiasts can witness a total lunar eclipse, producing a moon that looks rusty or blood red in color for parts of eastern Europe and Africa, and throughout all of Asia and Australia.

Flashlight tag

A spin on traditional hide and seek, children and adults run around in the evening with flashlights and try to find

or rescue team members.

Toasting marshmallows

Fire pits and late summer and early fall evenings make a perfect pair. Add to the fun with marshmallows toasted on skewers and a fixings bar of other sweet treats, like s’mores ingredients or cookies and fruit to enjoy with the melted marshmallows.

Meal competition

Take a page out of the cooking show playbook by pitting the family against one another in a light-hearted manner. With a set list of ingredients, everyone puts a spin on a signature meal made from the same ingredients. Make the most of evenings by spending time together with the family outdoors or inside. ~ Metro

Celebrate Summer, Shop Local: Embracing the Spirit of the Lakes Region

Summer in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is nothing short of magical. Sparkling waters, iconic Main Streets, and postcard-worthy views greet residents and visitors alike. From the moment the season kicks off, the region comes alive with energy, tradition, and the unmistakable charm that draws people back year after year.

With its quaint villages, bustling waterfronts, and small-town feel, the Lakes Region offers the best of both worlds—a vibrant summer destination with something new to discover around every corner, and a strong sense of community that remains rooted all year long.

From Meredith to Wolfeboro, Alton to Moultonborough, summer transforms the Lakes Region into a hub of activity. Boats dot the lakes, sidewalks fill with shoppers and ice cream cones, and village greens host concerts, craft fairs, and family events. It’s the season of outdoor dining, scenic drives, blueberry picking, and making memories.

But summer isn’t just a time to re-

lax—it’s a time to reconnect. To slow down, take in the view, and support the small businesses that make each town unique. Locally owned shops, farm stands, restaurants, and boutiques provide not just goods and services, but personality and heart.

Every shop window tells a story. There’s the hardware store that’s been in the family for generations, the coffee shop where everyone knows your name, the market stocked with freshfrom-the-field produce, and the bookstore that still wraps paperbacks in brown bags. These places offer more than just merchandise—they offer connection.

When visitors choose to shop local, they’re not only finding one-of-a-kind items—they’re helping preserve the authenticity that makes the Lakes Region special. Every dollar spent locally helps support community events, local causes, and the next generation of entrepreneurs.

From handcrafted jewelry to homemade jams, original artwork to classic

souvenirs, the variety is endless—and it’s all just a stroll or scenic drive away. Though summer draws thousands to the area, the Lakes Region is more than a seasonal escape. For many, it’s home. Generations of families have lived, worked, and built traditions here. Children attend local schools, neighbors gather for town meetings, and the same steeples and storefronts that charm visitors are part of daily life for yearround residents.

That’s why summer is such a special season—it’s a time when visitors and locals share the same sidewalks, trails, and views. It’s a season of opportunity to welcome new faces, rekindle old friendships, and show what makes this region so beloved.

With the summer buzz comes busier streets, longer lines, and packed calendars. But beneath the activity is something constant: kindness. Whether it’s a wave to the boat next to you at the dock, a smile to the family waiting in line at the ice cream shop, or a friendly chat at the farmers market, the Lakes Region has always had a way of bringing people together.

A little patience, a little flexibility, and a little local spirit can turn any summer day into something special. After all, a simple gesture of friendliness can make someone’s visit even more memorable—or remind a local just how much their hometown is appreciated.

There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the Lakes Region while supporting the businesses that keep it thriving. Here are just a few ways to shop local and soak in the season:

Stroll through village centers. Towns like Meredith, Wolfeboro, Bristol, and Center Harbor are perfect for window shopping, people-watching, and enjoying a coffee or snack on a sunny bench. Explore farmers’ markets. Many

towns host weekly outdoor markets full of local produce, flowers, baked goods, crafts, and live music.

Try something new. Whether it’s paddleboard yoga, a lake cruise, or a guided historical tour, summer is the perfect time to experience the region in a new way.

Visit local art galleries and makerspaces. Support painters, potters, and photographers who draw inspiration from the natural beauty all around.

Attend a summer event. Fireworks shows, outdoor concerts, library book sales, and town parades all add to the seasonal joy, and local volunteers and businesses organize many.

There’s a quiet pride that comes with calling the Lakes Region home—or with returning to it each year. It’s in the way people talk about “their lake,” the excitement over seeing the first loon of the season, or the annual stop at a favorite ice cream place. It’s found in traditions passed down through generations and the delight of discovering something new in a familiar place.

Shopping local is one of the simplest ways to invest in that pride. It keeps dollars in the community, helps preserve the character of our towns, and supports the people who make summer here so memorable.

As August winds down and autumn looms on the horizon, there’s still plenty of summer left to savor. Whether you’re picking out the perfect souvenir, browsing a sidewalk sale, or grabbing a sandwich before hitting the water, every small choice to shop local and show kindness adds to the story of the Lakes Region.

It’s a place with a lot to offer—and it’s at its best when visitors and locals alike share in its spirit. So this season, explore a little deeper, smile a little wider, and celebrate all the things that make this region shine.