One of my favorite lines ever in my life, which I first heard on the golf course years ago, is “I’d rather be lucky than good,” which certainly applied to my golf game, and to my writing life right now. I have always enjoyed writing, and although I think I’m decent at it, I was given an opportunity that I will put into the “lucky” category, as the powers that be at The Laker asked me if I would be interested in interviewing Gianni Russo. I think it is safe to say that much of the older population has not only heard of but watched the movie The Godfather many times, just like me.
Mr. Russo played the role of Carlos Rizzi, the young groom at the wedding, to start the movie as he was marrying the Godfather’s only daughter, played by Talia Shire. His role was tough for many to watch as he abused his wife, was a traitor to the Corleone family, resulting in the death of Sonny, and eventually his own death at the end of the movie. Many of my favorite movies are well known for some classic lines, but when you hear lines such as, “Leave the gun, take the cannoli”, or “Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes”, and maybe most famously, “I’ll make him an offer he can’t refuse”, we all know the movie is The Godfather, arguably the best movie
of all time. When this newspaper asked me if I would be interested in interviewing Mr. Gianni Russo, being the giant fan of The Godfather that I am, not only did I know exactly who he is, but the answer would be an immediate “YES!”. I was lucky enough to speak to Gianni for 45 minutes, and not only could I have spoken to him for an entire weekend, but he was also amazingly gracious, sharing anything and everything about his very full life, as he is one of the busiest men that I have ever met. We spoke the day after his 82nd birthday. His life was hardly easy as a kid, but he forged through it all to be-
come an enormously successful actor, mobster, restaurateur, businessman, motivational speaker, musician, have a clothing line, owner of Corleone Fine Italian Foods and Vodka, with great Godfather connotations, I might add, as well as an established author. His latest book, Mafia Secrets, Untold Tales from the Hollywood Godfather, is selling very well and he is doing a local book tour/signing, which includes dinner and an 80 minute show featuring his many stories and pictures/videos of his storied life with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, as well as many famous mob names includ-
ing Frank Costello. He shows are on Thursday, January 28, at Purity Springs/King Pine in Madison from 6 to 8:30 pm and the following night at The Christmas Farm Inn in Jackson, also from 6 - 8:30 pm. After reading the rest of this article, you will understand why these shows are called “An Evening You Can’t Refuse”. There is no doubt in my mind that this will be an epic evening I will never forget.
As a young boy living in The Bronx and Little Italy, he was diagnosed with polio and was forced to stay in a mental hospital for 7 years, as that was what was sadly done with polio cases. When released, he was weak and grabbed a job in a bakery mixing and kneading over 50 lbs. of flour into bread dough every day, which strengthened his arms and legs as well, as he was on his feet a lot. He was nicknamed “The Kid” by mobster Frank Costello, for whom Gianni did miscellaneous jobs. When he reached the age of 15, he was working as a shampoo boy for young actresses, including Marilyn Monroe, which was the start of a friendship, at times romantic, that lasted until her death. Gianni, as well as famous writer James Patterson, are
• Russo continued on page 4
Gianni Russo, as Carlos in The Godfather
Free Fishing Day in New Hampshire Is January 17
If you’ve ever wanted to try ice fishing, why not take advantage of New Hampshire’s winter free fishing day on Saturday, January 17, 2026? That’s a day you can fish without a license in New Hampshire.
Note that all other regulations must be followed. Learn more about fishing rules by reading the NH Freshwater Fishing Digest at www. fishnh.com/fishing/publications. html.
This annual winter event takes place on the third Saturday in January each year. New Hampshire also
offers a free fishing day on the first Saturday in June.
Participants in a fishing tournament must still hold a license, even on Free Fishing Day.
Find more information about ice fishing in New Hampshire, including videos, a list of bait dealers, and more at www.wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/ice-fishing.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state’s marine, fish, and wildlife resources and their habitats. Visit www.wildlife.nh.gov to learn more.
among many big names pushing for a national petition to have Ms. Monroe’s death certificate changed from suicide to homicide. Their case for this is very compelling, and if you go to Mr. Russo’s website, I think you will be intrigued enough to sign it. This will be a major topic of his dinner shows.
Although with no acting experience, he was given the role of Carlos Rizzi in The Godfather through some of his connections, and although most of the cast were relatively new to the movie business, they were all very talented and educated thespians. Marlon Brando, the biggest star in the movie, wasn’t overly impressed early on with Gianni but after a few back and forth “discussions”, Mr. Brando took Gianni under his wing and gave him a bunch of “on the job” training which not only made the part of Carlos very believable, it was the start of a wonderful friendship, to the point Gianni hired Marlon for a movie of his, The Freshman, a classic satire on mob movies, and a movie that gave Mr. Brando his biggest movie pay day ever. Gianni got to know Brando’s family well, including the tragedies that the family had to deal with.
smile. Gianni has acted in many movies and television shows over the years, as well as doing behind-the-scenes work. He’s also recorded a CD that is a tribute to his friends Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, named Reflections. Gianni’s friendship with Mr. Sinatra is legendary and lasted for many years, and Frank was huge as a singing coach to Gianni. In one of my favorite quotes from Mr. Russo, he mentioned, “I am likely the only person ever to have had Marlon Brando as a personal acting coach and Frank Sinatra as a personal singing coach.” That is a small part of a very cool and outstanding life, and his stories, combined with his famous friends, had me on the edge of my seat throughout the interview. He is gracious, brutally honest, and has an amazing sense of humor. I felt I had known him all my life. His schedule, with all he has going on, had me exhausted, and I’m 20 years younger than him. He still proudly lives in NYC.
Besides his books, especially the new one, Mafia Secrets, which is a #1 best seller, his line of Corleone Fine Italian Foods and Vodka continues to keep Gianni very busy, especially with his present book tour going on. As for the food line, he purchased the rights to the Corleone name and has Genko Olive Oil from the movie, and has a few great names for some of his sauces, such as Clemenza’s Meat Sauce and Fredo’s Alfredo, which makes me
Again, Gianni’s two upcoming shows in the Mt Washington Valley are on January 28 and 29 with an amazing show from a living legend, whom I am honored to say I’ve interviewed. Dinner is part of the package, accompanied by Gianni’s incredible life and his very fun way with words; it is guaranteed to have you feeling almost all emotions possible. If you’re there and meet him, please tell him I sent you his way.
To check out his amazing life and find a little more info on what to expect if you go see him live, as well as info on getting tickets, visit www.giannirusso.com.
I hope to see many of you there because there is no way I’m going to miss it! • Russo continued from page 3
Winter Issue Now Available
Dining Out in the Lakes Region Available at Hundreds of Locations around the Lakes Region!
Overview
Experience lakeside living at its finest at Langley Cove, a new residential community on Weirs Boulevard in Laconia, New Hampshire. Choose from charming single-family homes at The Cottages at Langley Cove, stylish apartments at The Residence at Langley Cove, or spacious townhomes at The Estates at Langley Cove. Here, you’ll discover a lifestyle centered around comfort, luxury, and community. Enjoy resort-style amenities and a prime location just minutes from Weirs Beach and downtown Laconia.
Property Amenities
Central Air Conditioning
In-Unit Washer/Dryer
Stainless Steel Appliances
Designer Flooring & Finishes
Electronic Thermostat
Patio/Balcony *Select Units Fitness Center Theatre Room
Room Game Room Podcast Room Pickleball Court BBQ & Picnic Area Animal Spa Cable
Farm
Prescott Farm invites community members to kick off the new year with a diverse array of hands-on workshops, artistic experiences, and outdoor adventures throughout January. Designed for adults and families alike, these programs offer opportunities to learn new skills, explore nature, and enjoy time together during the winter season.
On Saturday, January 10, participants can dive into the world of handcrafted bath products with Intermediate Soap Making: Colorful Soaps from 10 am to 1 pm. This cold-process workshop teaches the fundamentals of safe and natural soapmaking using mineral and plant-based colorants. Each attendee will head home with ap-
FOR SALE BY OWNER
Wolfeboro Trolley Company
Ready to Roll into 2026 with New Owners! Turn-key iconic small business since 1987.
Asking $125,000
Call Kathy at 603-569-1080 / 603-986-6411 or Email: info@wolfeborotrolley.com
proximately ten seasonally scented bars to enjoy after curing. Later that morning, nature lovers can join Winter Tree ID from 10 am to 12 pm, a guided walk through Prescott Farm to learn how to identify New England trees and shrubs using bark, buds, fruit, and plant structure. In the afternoon, artist Larry Frates leads Drawing Nature with Oil Pastels from 1 to 3 pm, where participants will explore the unique characteristics of oil pastels and create their own nature-inspired artwork with provided materials.
The following weekend, on Saturday, January 17, food enthusiasts can take part in Homemade Pasta Making from 10 am to 1 pm, a hands-on culinary workshop focused on crafting fresh egg pasta dough, rolling noodles, and making ravioli topped with seasonal sauces. That afternoon, from 1 to 3 pm, families are invited to learn about local wildlife with Tracking NH Wildlife, a multigenerational program that explores how native animals survive the winter and teaches participants to identify their tracks in the snow.
On Saturday, January 24, those interested in sustainable clothing repair can attend Mending with Needle Felting from 10 am to 12 pm, where participants practice both invisible and decorative felt-
ing techniques on fabric scraps and personal garments.
Prescott Farm will also offer a magical outdoor experience on Friday, January 30, with a Moonlit Snowshoe Hike from 4:30 to 6 pm. Guests can explore the winter landscape under the evening sky while learning about constellations, nocturnal animals, and night vision adaptation. Snowshoes are available to borrow at no additional cost.
The month concludes on Saturday, January 31, with two creative workshops. In the morning, Gluten-Free Baking with Chef LaShunda Allen runs from 10 am to 1 pm, offering a hands-on introduction to crafting delicious gluten-free baked goods. In the afternoon, from 1 to 3 pm, Paper Quilled Flowers invites participants to learn the art of rolling and shaping colorful paper strips to create decorative spring-inspired designs.
Each program includes a clearly defined physical demand level and is priced to encourage community participation, with discounted rates available for Prescott Farm members. For full details or to register, community members are encouraged to visit Prescott Farm’s website at prescottfarm.org. The Farm is located at 928 White Oaks Road in Laconia.
Ice Fishing Derbies Reel in Winter Fun Across the Lakes Region
By Mike Moore
Each February, the year-round fun to be had in the Lakes Region is on full display when several of our communities hold their annual fishing derbies, which help bring much-needed funding to local charities and conservation efforts. Finding that perfect spot on the perfect lake, hauling out the bob house, and firing up that drill has been a popular way for locals and visitors to get the most out of those frigid winter months.
Thousands of years ago, ice fishing was a necessity to survive the harsh winter months of the north. Nowadays, modern technology has allowed the sport to be enjoyed in safe and comfortable surroundings. An ice shack, commonly referred to around here as a bob house, can be as simple as nailing together some plywood walls or springing for the prefab, insulated models that feel as cozy as a living room. There are countless places to buy a pop-up tent, which offers a more affordable, but still comfortable way to get out on the ice. A cordless drill with a specialized ice auger bit creates the fishing hole in seconds, but a hand auger can work well, and you’ll be dropping a line in just a couple of minutes. And it doesn’t require any specialized gear to catch a prize-winning fish; a traditional fishing rod and live bait prove to be as effective an approach as they have for decades. Though the Meredith Ice fishing derby limits participants to using two, tip-ups (ice fishing traps) are a great way to be in the running for the big fish
at all times.
It’s important to be well prepared when headed out on the ice to compete in one of the big derbies. While the ice conditions are regularly monitored by the derby officials and Fish and Game, it’s recommended that anglers always test the ice before setting up, choosing a spot that doesn’t get a lot of wind, which can cause the ice to break more easily. It is also important to bring extra warm clothes, a life vest, blankets, and plenty of hot food/drinks. Be sure not to venture out alone, but too large a group should be avoided. Fires and cars are not allowed on the ice during the tournaments, and aren’t recommended safety practices at any point.
Throughout New Hampshire, the pastime has such popularity that there are over a dozen different tournaments
for the frozen lake anglers to compete in and earn some significant cash prizes. For the 2026 season, the Greater Meredith Rotary will kick off its 47th annual derby on February 7, and is open to any registered participant with a valid NH fishing license in any fresh
body of water in New Hampshire. The cherished community event is one that brings out the best of New England and beyond to compete, with one of the larger prize pools around. All finalists of the two-day event will take home a cash prize, with $3000 for third place, $5000 for second, and a $15,000 grand prize for the angler who reports the largest fish caught. To collect one of those big prizes, a contestant has to be sure to follow guidelines set by the Derby Committee in addition to following all the NH Fish and Game Department laws for ice fishing. After the contestants submit their catches to the tournament headquarters located at Hesky Park in Meredith, the fish are donated to the Squam Lakes Science Center to feed their variety of animals, though participants can request to reclaim the fish after the awards ceremo-
ny.
From 10 am to 2 pm on the Saturday of the event, the Rotary will be hosting a free ice fishing clinic for kids, but will happily welcome any new ice fisher of any age wanting to participate. Kids have other activities to participate in as well. There is a scavenger hunt, a coloring contest, and cookie decorating. A heated tent and snacks are also available to keep everyone in good spirits. One of the derby’s best additions coming this February is the “Lake Trout Turn-In & Win” raffle, which could earn those who enter a fish the $2500 cash prize. The goal behind this program, which the Meredith Rotary Club’s derby committee and the Fish and Game developed, is to celebrate and promote conservationism. All of the fish submitted for the raffle are donated to the animals of the Squam Lake Science Center as well. The derby officially starts at 8 am on Saturday, the 7th, and contestants have until 4 pm on Sunday, the 8th to get their submission weighed in at the Hesky Park headquarters. Tickets are $50 per individual and cover both days of the derby. They can be purchased online or a list of vendors to purchase in person, go to icefishingNH.com. All proceeds from the renowned events are used to support a multitude of community projects and Lakes Region community organizations.
The Boy Scouts of Milton sponsor the Milton Three Ponds Ice Fishing Derby this year, a popular event included as part of the Milton Winter
Carnival. Those interested in participating in the derby can visit the Milton Town Hall website or their office in the Emma Ramsey Center. Those not competing in the derby will still have plenty of entertaining things to do, as the Milton Winter Carnival has outdoor games, magic shows, crafts, sleigh rides, and plenty of great food.
In addition to the Meredith and Milton Three Ponds derbies, there are multiple other derbies held throughout the month. At Newfound Lake in Bristol, the Alexandria Volunteer Fire Department will be holding its 34th annual ice fishing derby on February 22 and 23. Tickets are available through the AVFA or can be purchased online through their Facebook page. Over in Wakefield, the town’s Parks & Recreation Department will be holding its annual fishing derby this February as well. The tournament allows competitors to fish Lovell Lake, Great East Lake, Balch Lake, Horn Pond, Belleau Lake, and Pine River Pond in addition to the larger Province Lake. Registration is available on the Wakefield Parks & Rec website or in person at their office on Meadow Street.
Some consider ice fishing a sport, some consider it a peaceful pastime, but during February, serious anglers get ready for a spirited and fun month of competitive fishing where there is a potential for serious prize money, and a certainty to bring community fellowship and family fun during the cold winter months. Get your fishing license and register for one of the many ice fishing derbies happening near you this February.
Dining Out in the Lakes Region Available at Hundreds of Locations
Molly the Trolley Business For Sale
A small local business with a big heart is looking for a new owner. Kathy Fairman, present owner of the Wolfeboro Trolley Company, has confirmed that the Molly the Trolley business is for sale.
“It’s been a privilege to work with local businesses in this group effort to attract and introduce visitors to our town,” she said. “However, after 38 years, it’s time for me to step aside and make room for someone else to lead this effort. I’m confident that they will enjoy working with Molly and our community as much as I have.”
In addition to offering narrated tours, Molly the Trolley accepts charters for private events such as weddings, dinner parties and concerts, a service that is also an important source of Molly’s income.
“The charter business developed because there was a need for safe, reliable group transportation,” said Fairman. “And no one makes that more fun and festive than Molly.”
“However, the greatest reward for me has always been the joy and smiles on the faces of the little ones,” she added. “When children watch Molly go by, or when they climb aboard, I see magic in their eyes, and there’s nothing better than that.”
Molly the Trolley was brought to town in 1987 by three local business owners, Gregg Roark Sr. (Wolfeboro Casuals), Richard “Dick” Eaton, Sr. (The Laker), and David He-
menway (Black’s) in hopes of easing traffic congestion downtown.
While Molly proved popular as a fun ride, people did not use it in lieu of parking downtown, so Eaton and then business partner, Kathy Fairman (The Laker) established the Wolfeboro Trolley Company, Inc and made Molly an attraction with narrated tours; one more reason for people to choose Wolfeboro as a place to visit, for a day or the whole summer.
“I believe it’s been successful in that role,” said Fairman. “Businesses support Molly by purchasing signs on the trolley and/or ads in her Map/Brochure, and many have continued to do so for decades, some like Bailey’s and The Art Place, since we started. I have to think they keep coming back because they also believe Molly the Trolley is good for business in Wolfeboro.” Fairman is firm in her plans to step down as an owner and driver this year. “I made this decision two years ago and I’m going to hold myself to it,” she said. “It has been a gradual process. Molly has an experienced staff including a manager ready to take the reins under new leadership. She will be ready to roll in the spring, but it won’t be with me as owner.”
Anyone interested in more information about the sale may contact Kathy directly at 603-569-1080 or info@wolfeborotrolley.com
By Chef Kelly
Happy 2026, Lakes Region. I hope all of you had an outstanding holiday season with family, friends, and all your loved ones. I must send a big shout-out to so many of you readers who have become pen pals of sorts; the emails have been great to read, whether questions about certain recipes, feedback, or asking me for ideas. That is what today is going to be about, as I have gotten a few letters in the last month asking for some ideas for breakfast casseroles, and who am I to say no? It helps that breakfast casseroles are a big favorite of mine, especially when I have overnight company – especially those you prep the night before and toss in the fridge so when you get up in the morning, you just turn on the oven and throw it in. These all qualify in that regard, and though they have similar ingredients, each is unique once finished. First off is a casserole that combines many of the best ingredients used in a classic hot oatmeal, so let’s start with that. This dish includes apples, cranberries, pecans, and oats combined with eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla, which will give you an incredible way to start your day. You can make this in 15 minutes and pop it in the refrigerator overnight. Baking time is 35-40 minutes, and it will serve 6. I prefer to use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples as they
seem to hold up better and give a better texture to the final product.
Baked Apple, Cranberry, and Pecan Oatmeal
2 large eggs
1 ¼ cups whole milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp apple pie spice
¼ tsp kosher salt
¾ cup packed light brown sugar, divided
8 tbsp butter, melted, divided
2 cups small, cubed, peeled apples
3 ½ cups uncooked old-fashioned regular rolled oats, divided
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans, divided
1 cup dried cranberries, divided Lightly coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, apple pie spice, salt, ½ cup of the brown sugar, and
5 tbsp of the melted butter in a large bowl. Add apple cubes, 3 cups of the oats, ½ cup of the pecans, and ½ cup of the cranberries, then stir to combine. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and cover with plastic wrap. Stir together the remaining ¼ cup brown sugar, 3 tbsp melted butter, ½ cup oats, and ½ cup pecans in a medium bowl. Cover with plastic wrap. Place covered baking dish and covered bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 8 hours or overnight. Once ready to cook, preheat oven to 350 degrees. While oven preheats, remove the baking dish and bowl from the refrigerator and remove the plastic wrap. Stir apple-oat mixture in the baking dish to redistribute the wet ingredients. Sprinkle the top evenly with oat-pecan topping mixture. Bake in preheated oven until mixture is set in the middle and topping is golden
‘Cue The Grill
Breakfast by Request: Five Crowd-Pleasing Morning Casseroles
brown, about 35-40 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining ½ cup dried cranberries. Cool for 10 minutes and serve it up. If there are any leftovers, lightly warm it in the microwave.
I’ve never met anyone who isn’t a fan of cinnamon rolls, and with darn good reason: they are delicious. Whether homemade or if you’re using those tubes from a supermarket, there is nothing not to like. Although all these recipes today are easy to make, this one is more so than the others. This one is best when using store-bought tubes, which is why they are so quick to put together. Where the others are at their best when sitting overnight before baking, this one is just as good if you prep it and bake it right away. It’s outstanding either way. These are finished with maple syrup and the icing from the tubes. Prep time is 10-15 minutes, and cooking time is just shy of half an hour. This will get you a dozen yummy treats. I love serving this at brunch, accompanied by other goodies. Cinnamon Roll Casserole 4 tbsp butter, melted 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls, cut into about 8 pieces per roll 4 large eggs
• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 10
½ cup milk
2 tsp vanilla
2 tsp cinnamon
¼ cup maple syrup
The icing from the cinnamon roll
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Pour butter into a 9×13 glass baking dish and spread evenly. Cut each of the 16 cinnamon rolls into 8 small pieces and layer evenly over the bottom of the dish. I like to use kitchen shears or a pizza cutter to easily cut the cinnamon rolls. In a large liquid measuring glass or small bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Make sure the egg is fully beaten within the milk. Pour egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls. Be sure the egg mixture is very evenly distributed. Drizzle syrup over the egg mixture. At this point, you can cover and refrigerate overnight or immediately bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until cinnamon rolls are golden brown. Plan on an additional 5-7 minutes if preparing the night before, since it will be cold. Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. Remove covers from the icing that came with the tubes and microwave on medium heat for 10-15 seconds or until thin enough to drizzle and do so evenly over the top, and enjoy. Serve with additional maple syrup if preferred, or honey is a great addition as well.
Next, we bust out some sausage and croissants for this scrumptiously rich idea for breakfast or brunch. Gruyere and fresh shredded Parmesan cheeses combined with the sausage, scallions, and the flaky croissants will create an amazing breakfast bake for you. This is a classic example of how, when sitting in the fridge for a bunch of hours, the flavors meld together so well. I use spicy sausage for this, but if the heat isn’t your thing, adjust accordingly to a milder option. As for the croissants, if you can find a package of 24 mini ones, they work best, but larger ones
ripped up will work just fine. How could anyone go wrong with a cheesy sausage croissant breakfast? Prep time is about 20 minutes, cook time is 45-50 minutes, and this will feed 8 of you. So Good!
Croissant and Sausage Casserole
1 lb hot ground pork sausage. I’m a big fan of Jimmy Dean
1 ¼ cups, 5 oz, shredded Parmesan cheese, not grated
1 tsp table salt
6 scallions, sliced
1 package mini croissants, 13-14 oz, torn
3 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
5 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, about 8 oz
Cook sausage for about 8 minutes in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring to crumble. Toss together the sausage, Parmesan cheese, salt, scallions, and torn croissants and arrange the mixture in a 13- x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Whisk together milk, cream, and eggs, and pour over the sausage mixture. Cover and chill the dish for 8 hours. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Uncover the casserole and sprinkle with Gruyere cheese. Bake 45 minutes or until golden. Let it stand for 10 minutes and dig in.
One of my all-time favorite flavor combos when it comes to anything sweet is blueberries and lemon, so if you feel the same way, this breakfast bake will be perfect for you. Blueberries bring color and tartness to the dish, while maple syrup provides sweetness, and the hint of lemon is just enough to put this dish right over the top. You can easily assemble this casserole the night before in 15 minutes and leave it to soak before baking it in the morning, like the others. Cooking time is in the 75-minute range and usually feeds 8 lucky eaters.
Lemon Blueberry French Toast Casserole
1 lb whole-grain bread, cut into
1-inch pieces
2 cups fresh blueberries, although frozen will work if not thawed
8 large eggs
3 cups milk
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup pure maple syrup, plus more at serving time
1 tbsp lemon zest
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Toss bread and blueberries in the prepared dish. Thoroughly whisk eggs, milk, butter, syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt in a large bowl. Pour the mixture over the bread and blueberries, pressing down with a wide spatula to make sure all the bread pieces are soaked. Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Let the casserole stand at room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake, covered, for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake until golden, 20-25 minutes more. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving. Lastly, today, I bust out a breakfast bake based on one of my all-time favorite sandwiches, that being a Monte Cristo. What is not to like about a sandwich with 2 pieces of French toast surrounding sliced ham, turkey and Swiss? Of course, when I make the sandwich, I also throw bacon in there too, and why not? For this dish, it’s time to utilize some croissants again, although more of a sandwich size is the way to go. Ideally, you want to buy them a day or 2 in advance and let them go a little stale as it helps in the baking process of absorbing the egg mix. If you want to use bacon in this, I suggest using chopped cooked bacon as opposed to using whole slices. Once done, it’s drizzled with a combo of maple syrup and raspberry jam. Yummy. Prep time is 15 minutes, cooking time is 35-40 minutes, and will feed 8 of you.
Monte Cristo Croissant Casserole
7 large eggs
1 1/3 cups half-and-half
4 tsp Dijon mustard
1 ½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
8 slices deli smoked ham, ¼ inch thick slices
8 slices deli smoked turkey, ¼ inch thick slices
8 slices Swiss cheese
8 croissants, at least a day old, halved horizontally
3 tbsp raspberry jam, ideally seedless, but not a real big deal
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Whisk the eggs, half and half, mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth. Set it aside. Lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Place 1 slice of the ham, 1 slice of the turkey, and 1 slice of the Swiss cheese, folding ham, turkey, and cheese to fit, if needed, on the bottom half of each croissant. Cover with the top halves. Place the stuffed croissants in the baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the croissants. Cover with aluminum foil, and chill for 8-12 hours. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake, covered, for 15 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake until the tops of the croissants are golden brown, and the egg mixture is almost set, about 20 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes. Stir the jam and maple syrup in a small bowl until smooth. Lightly dust the casserole with powdered sugar and drizzle with the raspberry jam sauce. This will be a big hit! That’s a rap, my friends. To those who wrote to me looking for breakfast bake recipes, I hope these tickle your fancy the way they do for me. Until next time, I hope the start of the new year treats you well. Remember to keep your taste buds happy, and if you care to touch base with any questions or feedback, please reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com.
Capitol Center for the Arts: What’s Happening This Winter Season
By Mark Okrant
At the risk of sounding like a broken record—it isn’t necessary to travel to New York, or even Boston, to experience music, theater, or other forms of high-quality live entertainment. One need not leave New Hampshire to encounter first-rate musical theater venues—with their impressive stages, large orchestra pits, excellent sound and light systems, and several options of comfortable seating. New Hampshire has several such venues, all of which attract excellent professional theater groups and wonderful performers. Downtown Concord offers two of these, the Chubb Theatre and its little sister, the Bank of New Hampshire Stage.
The Capitol Center for the Arts (CCA) is a venue that features a flexible 1,304-seat theater designed with an Egyptian motif. The original Capitol Theatre, which existed in the same location from 1927 to 1989, was described by the late local culture authority, Paul E. Brogan, as “still bearing signs of the elegance and lushness that had earned it acclaim when it opened.” He remembered experiencing pipe organ and stage presentations before each film while attending during the 1950s and 1960s.
The Center opened in its current form in 1995, after a multiyear renovation of the Capitol Theatre was made possible by $4.2 million in donations, with Chubb Life providing most of the support. The Chubb Theatre was named in honor of the company that made the Center possible.
The Capitol Center takes its role as a cultural anchor in the community seriously, welcoming everyone through their doors to come together for the shared experience of live performanc-
es. It is their intention to “expand programs beyond the theatre walls and continue to be an important part of the thriving cultural sector, as well as a leader in Concord’s creative economy.” With a firm belief in the power of arts experiences to shape lives and strengthen community bonds, the Center’s mission is “to serve area residents
and visitors (both in-person and virtually) through dynamic engagements with performing artists that inspire, educate, entertain, deepen human-to-human connections, expand community vitality, and generate economic growth.”
The Capitol Center management continues to be guided by the belief that the performing arts are both for,
and by, all peoples. It is a venue where both the art presented on the CCA stages, and the audiences for that art, represent the rich diversity of the communities they serve.
Situated at 44 South Main Street in downtown Concord, the theater offers seating sections to suit different viewing preferences and budgets:
• The Orchestra Level is situated closest to the stage, thereby providing a close and intimate view of the performances. These are premium seats with the best view and experience.
• The Mezzanine Level is the section just above the Orchestra Level; it offers great sightlines and proximity to the stage. Center seats in the Mezzanine Level are considered premium for their centralized view of the stage.
• The Balcony Level is situated higher up from the stage but still provides decent views for all performances. Its side and rear sections are more budget-friendly options that offer a farther view that is still clear.
• Box Seats are private seating areas located on the sides of the theatre. These offer a distinctive viewing experience and are ideal for small groups. Here is the Schedule of events at the Chubb Theatre during January, February, and March.
January 8: Mania! The Abba tribute, an unforgettable homage to the Swedish band.
January 17&18: Grease, the vibrant musical set during the 1950s.
January 22: Education Series-Drum Tao, using “Wadaiko” (Japanese drums, the sounds produced are one of a kind.
•Capitol Center continued on page 12
January 23: The Fab Four-Help! Tribute band celebrates Beatles’ second film, Help!
January 24: The Magic of Motown, 15 powerful vocalists transport audiences back in time.
February 1: Kathy Griffin-New Face, New Tour, the best-selling comedienne
is known for her biting satire.
February 3: Sing-A-Long Broadway, a love letter to Broadway musicals.
February 7: A Tribute Night to the Eagles, an evening featuring the Eagles’ greatest hits.
February 10: moe., bold, genre-defying creativity and tongue-in-cheek humor.
February 12: Tusk, the Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute.
Soaring 20’ ceilings in the great room and a chef’s kitchen with granite, island and stainless appliances. Stone and tile walk in shower, granite vanity and washer/dryer included. Oversized heated garage with slop sink and storage area. Keypad entry. Hardwood floors, custom solid wood cabinets and central vac. Energy efficient systems including on demand hot water and HVAC heat pump.
Wolfeboro: $2950/mo., plus utilities. Call 603-966-6015 fmi.
February 21: Get the Led Out, the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin.
February 26: Dirty Dancing in Concert, a cinematic live-to-film concert that brings the love story back to the big screen with a twist.
February 27: Justin Willman-One for the Ages, a combination of mind-blowing magic and relatable humor.
March 5: Stinky Cheese Man & Other Fairly Stupid Tales, offers a twist on the original Jack in the Beanstalk tale—for young students.
March 7: Cherish the Ladies, a celebrated Irish ensemble, provides a blend of traditional Irish music, vocals, and Irish step dancing.
March 11: The Cat in the Hat, an entertaining version of the Dr. Seuss tale—for young students.
March 13: Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales, a reimagining of three children’s stories— Goldilocks and the Three Bears, The Three Little Pigs, and The Three Billy Goats Gruff—for young students.
March 18: The Three Italian Tenors, a salute to Pavarotti, Bocelli, Lanza, and Caruso.
March 19: The Simon and Garfunkel Story, huge projection photos, original film footage, and a full live band tell the pair’s story.
March 22: Wild World of Animals, Grant Kemmerer introduces live animals.
March 28: Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo, guitar virtuoso and his group present gypsy music.
March 31: Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the group performs a music style called isicathamiya, developed by black workers in the mines of South Africa.
Operated by the Capitol Center for the Arts, the Bank of New Hampshire Stage (AKA Theatre) is situated at 16 Main Street South, in Concord. It is a small performing arts facility designed to feel like a club-style space. Like the larger Chubb Theatre, Bank of NH’s casual atmosphere makes it capable of supporting a range of forms of entertainment. A partial list of offerings during this winter season includes: Encanto Sing-Along, Swing Dance Night, Tribute to Foo Fighters, Northern Cross, Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki Trio, and K-Pop Demon Hunters Dance Party & Rave.
For more information about dates and times of performances at both venues, visit ccanh.com. The ticket office is located at 16 South Main Street in Concord, or you may call (603) 2251111.
Well-Intentioned but Harmful: Officials Caution Against Feeding Deer
As winter brings more snow across the Granite State, deer have changed their activity patterns, and more numerous and larger groups of deer can be observed. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Deer Project Leader Becky Fuda offered the following caution to anyone thinking about feeding deer.
“Although people may feel badly for deer and want to help, the Fish and Game Department would like to remind the public to never feed deer as it may actually harm them,” said Fuda.
The deer are all right, even in the winter. Deer have developed several adaptations to help them survive severe winters, which means they do not need supplemental food. Deer have a highly insulative winter coat to keep them warm, they store large amounts of body fat to use as energy reserves, they will voluntarily reduce both their food intake and daily activity to conserve energy, and most importantly, they migrate to a specialized habitat known as a deer yard, a forested shelter that allows them to better cope with winter conditions.
Since over 80% of the state’s forestland is privately owned, much of the Department’s management of this critical habitat is done through cooperative agreements with landowners. Feeding deer also puts these management efforts at risk by drawing deer out of wintering habitat and removing the incentive for private landowners to conserve and manage deer yards on their property. “It is tough to convince
a landowner to expend money and resources managing a deer yard if all the deer have been drawn out to supplemental feed sites,” said Fuda.
Conservation and management of natural winter habitat is the key to long-term survival of deer in the Granite State, not the placement of human-provided food sources. Supplemental feeding can harm our deer. Although most people who feed deer are well-intentioned, they do not realize that there are a number of potential negative consequences that are associated with feeding deer.
Feeding deer the wrong type of food or at the wrong time can lead to sickness and even death. This was the case in 2015, when twelve deer were found dead around a feed site in South Hampton after being given food they could not digest.
Deer depend on microorganisms in their stomach to aid in digestion. As a deer’s diet naturally and gradually changes with the seasons, so do the
microorganisms that are required to help digest these foods. This gradual change can take several weeks. A rapid transition from a high-fiber diet of naturally woody browse to human-provided foods high in carbohydrates can cause a rapid change in a deer’s stomach chemistry, disrupting the microorganisms present. This can reduce the deer’s ability to properly digest food
and cause the release of toxins, which are then absorbed into the deer’s system. Many of the most common supplemental foods people provide deer during winter are high in starches, and they create a great risk for deer.
“Aside from death directly resulting from inappropriate foods, several other negative consequences are associated with winter feeding of deer,” added Fuda. “These can include an increased likelihood of vehicle collisions, over-browsing of local vegetation and ornamental plants, enhanced risk of predation, and an increased risk of disease transmission, which is why Fish and Game strongly discourages the practice.”
For more information on the risks associated with feeding deer, visit www. wildlife.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt746/files/inline-documents/sonh/ more-harm.pdf.
The versatile GX offers three options: cooling-only, standard heat pump, and H2i® for reliable heating in even the coldest climates The cooling-only model suits applications without heating needs, while the GX can also pair with Mitsubishi Electric’s multi-zone outdoor units for m multi-zone setups
Jan. 3, Games Night, 5:30 – 8 p.m., free event with potluck, Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Jan. 3, Saturday Après with Garrett Smith, 2 – 5 p.m., Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain Resort, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www. gunstock.com.
Jan. 3-Feb. 21, Learn to Play Hockey, by Back Bay Hockey Assoc., at Pop Whale Ice Arena, 390 Pine Hill Rd., Wolfeboro, 603-569-5639, www.backbayhockey.com
Jan. 6, Hospital and Haven: 30 Years of Practicing Medicine in a Remote Native Village in the Early 1900s, 6 – 7 p.m., Geoffrey Burke talk about his grandparents’ work in Alaska healthcare, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-662-6501.
Jan. 6-March 3, Nordic Meisters, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., ski, snowshoe, fat bike, or do all three, race series, Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com. Takes place on Tuesdays.
Jan. 8, Plymouth Square Dance, 7:15 p.m., Barn on the Pemi, 341 Daniel Webster Highway, Plymouth, all are welcome, traditional caller David Millstone will teach traditional squares and more, with live music, suggested donation $10-$15 at the door, refreshments available, weather cancellations/updates see Plymouth Square Dance Facebook, email: how.gen@gmail.com, 603-4810789. (Takes place throughout winter until April.)
Jan. 10, Intro to Garment Knitting, 9 – 11 a.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org. (Class runs on Jan. 10, 17, 24 & 31)
At the Stove Barn, you’ll nd luxury replaces and stoves cra ed to elevate your home and tailored to your taste — like the Fire Nova 2, a modern, EPA-certi ed woodstove that delivers high e ciency with low emissions, serious heat output, 22-inch log capacity, and exible top or rear venting.
Or the show-stopping Urbana U33i-Tall, a clean-face gas centerpiece with a soaring viewing window and a full palette of customizable options and power-vent solutions — so the nal look feels architectdesigned and uniquely yours.
From nish selections to venting and control packages, our team will spec every detail so your hearth looks built in from day one. Come experience the ame in person, see true scale, compare nishes, and let us design a replace or stove that ts your home like it was made for it.
We invite you to visit and explore stoves and replaces you won’t nd in every other store. Come see why we’re celebrating y years — and why we’re just getting started. 249 Loudon Road Concord, NH 603-225-8308
Jan. 10, Paint Your Pet, 2 – 5 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603569-1500, www.makersmill.org.
Jan. 10, Saturday Après with Arlene Wow, 2 – 5 p.m., Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain Resort, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com
Jan. 13, Raising Digital Natives Safely: Protecting Your Family Online, 6 – 7 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603662-6501.
Jan. 14, 21 & 28, Open Studio Acrylic Painting, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., instructor: Leigh Schoch, Lakes Region Art Gallery, 120 Laconia Rd., #300, Tanger Outlet, 603-998-0029, www.lakesregionartgallery.org. Pre-registration link: https:// form.jotform.com/253485584861167
Jan. 15, Moultonborough Roads Improvement Presentation and Q&A, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.
Jan. 17, Dueling Pianos, 7 p.m., presented by Franklin Opera House, held at Franklin Lodge of Elks, 125 South Main St., Franklin, tickets: www.franklinoperahouse.org
Jan. 17, Investigative Genetic Genealogy and the DNA Doe Project: A Crash Course, 2 - 3:30 p.m., Community Room, Rochester Public Library, 65 South Main St., Rochester, space limited/pre-register: 603-603-332-1428.
Jan. 17, Intro to Garment Knitting, 9 – 11 a.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Jan. 17, Saturday Après with Rebecca Turmel, 2 – 5 p.m., Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain Resort, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www. gunstock.com.
Jan. 17, Women’s Winter Escape, 8:15 a.m., Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com
Jan. 20, Revolutionary Crafts: Rag Braided Hot Mat, instructor: Patsy Frasier, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, non-with refundable fee, pre-registration required: 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org
What’s UP
Jan. 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, Photo Class Level 1, 6 – 7:30 p.m., Lakes Region Business Center, 25 Country Club Road, Unit 404, Gilford, info.: Michelle@ Photo66.com, www.www.lrbiz.com.
Jan. 21, Giselle with Grand Kyiv Ballet, 7 p.m., Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, tickets/info: 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com
Jan. 21, Learn to Draw, 7 – 9 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Jan. 23, Bryson Lang Comedic Juggler & Entertainer, 3:45 – 4:45 p.m., Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, Center Ossipee, 603-539-1307.
Jan. 23-Feb. 28, Musical Murder Mystery at Walt Chester World, 7 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, tickets: 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com.
Jan. 24, Being Petty: Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers Experience, 7 –9:30 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, info@lakeportopera.com, 603-519-7506.
Jan. 24, Intro to Garment Knitting, 9 – 11 a.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Jan. 24, M.W. Otto Rhode Memorial Skin & Ski, 11:30 a.m., fundraiser for Granite Backcountry Alliance, ski/snowboard down Mt. Washington Auto Rd., Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com
Jan. 24, Saturday Après with Gary Gadoury, 2 – 5 p.m., Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain Resort, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com.
Jan. 27, Open Mic Night, Poetry & Music, 6 - 8 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-662-6501.
Jan. 30, Skin the Moon, 5 p.m., ski down under moonlight at 8:15 p.m., Waterville Valley, 800-468-2553, www.visitwatervillevalley.com.
Jan. 30-Feb. 1, Snow Sculpting Competition, free, sculpture competition, Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com
Feb. 5, Plymouth Square Dance, 7:15 p.m., Barn on the Pemi, 341 Daniel Webster Highway, Plymouth, all are welcome, traditional caller David Millstone will teach traditional squares and more, with live music, suggested donation $10-$15 at the door, refreshments available, weather cancellations/ updates see Plymouth Square Dance Facebook, email: how.gen@gmail.com, 603-481-0789. (Takes place throughout winter until April.)
Feb. 15, Alton Bay Winter Carnival, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., food, games, more, Alton Bay, www.altonbusinessassociation.com.
Feb. 19-March 15, Art in the Garden, Lakes Region Art Gallery, 120 Laconia Rd., #300, Tanger Outlet, 603-998-0029, www.lakesregionartgallery. org.
Feb. 22, Ski, Shoe, Fatbike to the Clouds, 10 a.m., Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails. com
March 5, Plymouth Square Dance, 7:15 p.m., Barn on the Pemi,341 Daniel Webster Highway, Plymouth, all are welcome, traditional caller David Millstone will teach traditional squares and more, with live music, suggested donation $10-$15 at the door, refreshments available, weather cancellations/ updates see Plymouth Square Dance Facebook, email: how.gen@gmail.com, 603-481-0789. (Takes place throughout winter until April.)
March 6, Skin the Moon, 5 p.m., ski down under moonlight at 8:15 p.m., Waterville Valley, 800-468-2553, www.visitwatervillevalley.com.
April 2, Plymouth Square Dance, 7:15 p.m., Barn on the Pemi,341 Daniel Webster Highway, Plymouth, all are welcome, traditional caller David Millstone will teach traditional squares and more, with live music, suggested donation $10-$15 at the door, refreshments available, weather cancellations/ updates see Plymouth Square Dance Facebook, email: how.gen@gmail.com, 603-481-0789.
ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center, gallery, workshops & events, open year-round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rt. 16, Chocorua, www. chocoruaartworks.com
Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, gallery and textile museum, events and programs, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Breakfast Buffet, 7 - 11 a.m., Wolfeboro Masonic Lodge, 35 Trotting Track Rd., Wolfeboro. Pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, home fries, bacon, sausage, omelets made-to-order, Eggs Benedict, biscuit and gravy, juice, and coffee. Served the second Sunday of every month, 603-569-4637.
Coffee Hour, 10 – 11 a.m., Wednesdays, coffee, tea, 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.
Fiber Arts Group, 10 a.m. – noon, meets Tuesdays, Sanbornton Public Library, 27 Meetinghouse Hill, Sanbornton, 603-286-8288, www.splnh.com
Eggs Benedict - topped with homemade hollandaise, made fresh to order
Buttermilk Pancakes | French Toastserved on thick Texas toast
Sandwiches & Burgers | Don't forget to check out our daily breakfast & lunch specials!
Grab breakfast or lunch at The Farmer’s Kitchen. We use only the freshest ingredients for our homemade creations. Come by today to try our: 444 NH Route 11 Farmington | 603-755-9900
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
Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.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 individuals, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www.ossipee.recdesk.com.
Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, programs for adults and children, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Call ahead for event information and to inquire if program pre-registration is necessary: 603366-5695.
Quilting & Crafting Group, 1 p.m., meets 2nd & 4th Thurs. monthly, Ossipee Public Library, 74 Main St., Center Ossipee, schedule/info: 603-539-6390.
Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.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 603-651-5800 or Teresa Fournier at 978-609-2181.
Song and Jam Circle, 6:30 – 8 p.m., community created jams and song circle, 3rd Monday of each month, Runnells Hall, 25 Deer Hill Rd., Tamworth, free, bring your favorite instruments, Arts Council of Tamworth, 603-584-2712, www.artstamworth.org
Stamp Club, 7 p.m., All Saints Church, 258 South Main St., Wolfeboro, info: 603-569-3453.
Tamworth Outing Club Second Saturday Dance, 7:30 - 10 p.m., Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, live musical bands/callers, info@tamworthoutingclub.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.
Tuftonboro Country Bluegrass and Gospel Jam, 6 p.m., Tuesdays, donation requested, Old White Church, Rte. 109A, Center Tuftonboro, across from Tuftonboro General Store, 603-569-3861.
Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets Wednesdays, 4 p.m., All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603-5205651.
Snowy Days of Old: When Winter Meant Work
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
Snow. Lots of it. Piles of the white stuff clog roads and driveways, and big town plows clear the roadways. We rely on snowplows to keep the roads clear, but there was a time when, if you wanted to travel, you did the snow removal work yourself.
Often this meant shoveling for hours to clear a path on roads that wagons could use for travel.
Things had changed by the 1900s, but there was still a lot of work involved in battling winter’s weather. In the winter of 1920, the March weather was erratic, with rain and snow creating a mess on the roads and sidewalks. The week of March 20 saw heavy rain on Friday evening that saturated the already thick snow. Unfortunately, the mercury dropped, and the rain changed to heavy snow by morning, with a “roaring blizzard” wreaking havoc, adding to the already terrible weather. The temperature dropped to 12 degrees. It was difficult to see the road if one ventured out that day.
In the 1920s, rollers were still in use here and there to pack down the snow and clear the roads. But in that particular storm in the Newfound Lake area, such a contraption would be useless. Instead, a “snow contrivance” arranged to plow and soften up the drifts. The story reported that “the contrivance and the hand shovel proved the most effective methods.”
Shoveling so much heavy, wet snow probably hurt many backs. The shoveling continued into the following week, and every man and boy available was put into service. Local shops freed up their employees to pitch in with shoveling as well.
The devastating storm meant other roads were also impassable. A local selectman and 64 men and eight spans of horses went to work on the roads. It took this number of workers to get the roads in shape and passable. The snow drifts were up to 10 ft. high or more, attesting to the difficulty and heavy work involved.
Some plows – crude versions in those days - slid off the roads and ended up sitting in fields until they could be towed out.
A big winter storm brought trouble in the area in the 1940s as well. An article in the Jan. 27, 1944, edition of the Bristol Enterprise, with an interesting headline told readers, “Mica Mine Opened by Army Plow.” The article informed that after an emergency call, three complete snowplow outfits from Fort Devens assisted in clearing the roads to the mica mines in the Bristol
area.
The Army plows must have been powerful because they opened the roads leading to rural mines in West Rumney and Alexandria, both towns being ill-equipped to handle moving a great deal of snow. The plowing task was time-consuming, so the Fort Devens men lodged at a hotel in Plymouth, NH, for a week while working.
In a February 1950 edition of the Bristol Enterprise, readers were told that the town of Bristol’s citizens were doing a commendable job keeping streets clear for snowplowing. Nevertheless, at least one car had to be towed so the plows could do their work. The car’s owner, the article said, would be charged.
One positive of cold winter weather was ice forming on the lakes. The ice was stored for later use by being cut into large blocks and sold to local people to keep food fresh year-round.
• Yesteryear continued on page 18
Early snowplowing in the Bristol/Newfound Lake region. Courtesy Bristol Historical Society.
Harvesting the ice from the lake was no small task. It took multiple men and a method of dragging the ice blocks to shore. (Usually, large ice picks were used to grab and move the ice.)
The winter cold, when temperatures plummeted, could mean frozen water pipes, or for those without running water, carrying buckets of ice-covered water from a steam or pond was hard work. There was little way to keep pipes warm and the water flowing.
Winter chores meant not only cutting firewood but also making sure there was ample space for the logs. Cutting fallen trees was arduous work with axes and saws that we would find crude today. These tools had to be kept sharp year-round to make the work go smoothly. Sawmills in each town or village handled cutting larger trees into lumber for building homes but not everyone had the use of a mill, and many people did the work themselves.
Kindling for starting the fire in fireplaces and woodstoves was gathered by women and children. They would bring a basket or sled to haul small branches, leaves, and twigs from the forest surrounding their home, thus freeing up the men from this work so they could focus on other tasks. Keeping the fires tended to and burning was also the job of most housewives.
Other chores to keep homes warm in winter included insulating the exterior as thoroughly as possible. In The History of New Durham, New Hampshire, by Ellen Cloutman Jennings, it was written that homesteaders and people
even into the early 1900s “banked” their foundations with evergreen boughs. This was yet another use of trees to provide for families in winter. (Homes were not sturdily built, as log cabins could sometimes have cracks and holes around the foundation, and limbs and especially evergreen boughs were a handy method of keeping out the cold through insulating.)
Every family had to prepare for illness and injury, such as cuts from working in the forests or colds and flu picked up here and there, especially in the winter months. Without proper sanitation, food could spoil, causing stomach illnesses. Doctors might be miles away, so people had to rely on their own medicines for a cure. Medicines were often made from herbs and roots grown and gathered on the land, and these had to be dried and stored for winter uses.
Some of the early medicines that were made and used included sage and honey with vinegar for a sore throat, as written in The History of New Durham, New Hampshire. Also made by local people with an interest in curing illnesses was wild cherry bark steeped in cold water to “calm irritation and nervous excitability” (although this cure might have done little to help). Rhubarb was a laxative, and if you suffered from a tape worm, you could find relief by the use of wild carrot roots. Sumac berries alleviated fever, and other helpful plants included elderberries, hop vines, and skunk cabbage roots.
Those with cuts could rely on poultices to help, made with bark and leaves stewed in milk or water thickened with breadcrumbs or seeds. While these
medicines seem horrible in our modern day, they were accepted as cures in the 1700, 1800 and early 1900s.
Should there be an outbreak of a serious illness such as typhoid fever or the dreaded smallpox, leaves and berries would have been little help, and mortality at times ran high. Infant mortality was even higher at a time before vaccines or powerful medicines.
A mysterious illness in 1735 was
called throat distemper, and it claimed over 1,000 lives in New Hampshire, which was frightening. People were powerless to find a cure. No matter the season, times were tough in days of old, and there is no doubt that winter taxed those unprepared for the cold and snow. But with experience and strength, one could live through the cold months, warm and fairly healthy.
Winter Happenings at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
The mission of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is to advance understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world. The center offers a wide range of programs throughout the year.
Hands-on Learning for Homeschoolers is offered on the first Thursday of each month through April, 10 to 11:30 am, for ages 7 to 10 (limited space available) to learn about the natural world through hands-on activities and investigations. Each program wraps up with a visit with one of our live animal ambassadors. The upcoming schedule includes Predator Survival on January 8; Winter Exploration on February 5, Living Wild: Plant and Animal Adaptations on March 5; and Exploring Life Cycles on April 2.
The cost per session is $12/member child; $15/non-member child. Advance registration is required. For event details, registrations, and tickets, visit nhnature.org.
Another winter activity at the center is Wild Winter Walks, for ages 6 and
up. Walks occur Sunday, Jan. 11, Saturday, Jan. 17, Saturday, Jan. 24, Sunday, Feb. 1, Saturday, Feb. 7, Sunday, Feb. 15, Saturday, Feb. 21, Saturday, Feb. 28, Saturday, March 7, Sunday, March 15, from 10 to 11:30 am or 1 to 2:30 pm.
What do the animals at the Science Center do when winter arrives? Bundle up and find out! Join one of our naturalists for a guided walk along the live animal exhibit trail to see our animal ambassadors sporting their winter coats. Discover the remarkable strategies these animals use to stay warm, find food, and survive the season. It’s a wild winter adventure you won’t want to miss!
Cost for Wild Winter Walks is $15/ member; $18/non-member. A registered adult must accompany children. This program is all outdoors, dress in warm layers with insulated snow boots, hats, and gloves.
The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is located at 23 Science Center Road in Holderness, NH.
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