West Ossipee–Home of the Original Snowmobile
By Lee Caldwell
Henry Ford began manufacturing the Model T automobile in 1908, and remained in production for 19 years. Besides using the car for basic transportation, customers soon began transforming their Model Ts to suit their specialized needs. Mail-order catalogs and advertisements were filled with parts and kits to turn the Model T into farm tractors, mobile sawmills, semi trucks, and snowmobiles.
Virgil D. White of West Ossipee, a Ford dealer, invented the Model T conversion kit that turned the Model T automobile into a snowmobile. White’s shop began selling fully converted Model Ts for $750, and conversion kits for about $400. Eventually, his small factory in West Ossipee was making about 3,000 snowmobile kits a year.
Bud Gordon, president of the New Hampshire Snowmobile Museum and a snowmobile aficionado, has been racing and collecting snow machines since the mid-1980s. He rode his first snowmobile in the 1970s.
In his piece, “History of the Snowmobile”, he comments, “In 1913, Virgil D. White built what is considered by many snowmobile enthusiasts to be the first true snowmobile. White, a Ford Automobile Dealer in West Ossipee NH, invented a snowmobile conversion kit for the Model T. The kit consisted of a replacement rear drive axle, with track assemblies mounted in place of the rear wheels, and a large pair of wooden skis on a metal framework, that mounted on the front spindles in place of the front wheels. White was granted a patent for his snowmobile conversion kit in 1917. White also coined and copyrighted the term ‘Snowmobile’ to describe his invention.”
Gordon continues, “Starting in 1919, the newly formed Snowmobile Company of West Ossipee NH, owned by Virgil White, started building Model T Snowmobiles. The company built Model T Snowmobiles for approximately eight years, before converting to the new Model A Ford to build its snowmobiles for the next two years. The company also sold snowmobile conversion kits exclusively through Ford automobile dealers. The Snowmobile Company built and sold over 25,000 conversion kits before closing
their doors in 1929.”
Gordon elaborates during an interview, “The first known snowmobile race was held on Eagle Lake (I think in Wisconsin), held in the late 1920s with two Model T Snowmobiles.”
The New Hampshire Snowmobile Museum, located in Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown, has a 1923 Virgil White Model T Snowmobile on exhibit, and it is taken out during events. The museum is open by appointment, during its open house, and during events. The next event, a winter rally, will take place at Bear Brook State Park on Sunday, February 16. For more information, contact Bud Gordon at 603-496-5452.
Crane’s Snowmobile Museum in Lancaster is another spot where one can view not only the Virgil White Model T Snowmobile but also 154 unique antique and vintage snowmobiles.
Owner Paul Crane talks about his acquisition of his 1926 Model T Snowmobile. “I got it from Kingsford Maine from the Ford dealer. There were three of them there, and this was one of the three. This one here was on a farm in Maine and it was used for twitching wood, mainly.”
He continues, “And you can see, it’s
all original, except for that, technically, they always put an addition on the back, so cleats. The cleats came from White’s in West Ossipee, as you know. And this one here is a foot narrower than the average Model T. The reason is the center of that is right where a sled would run; and there aren’t too many of them with a tie rod. You can see how old it is with the old bolts and everything.”
Paul also points out that the Model T Snowmobile’s metal running board has the word “snowmobile” emblazoned on it and notes that it is the same
The Virgil D. White Model T Snowmobile (Courtesy of Bud Gordon)
Vintage photo of Virgil D. White Model T Snowmobile (Courtesy of Bud Gordon)
NH Coverts Project Seeks Volunteers for New Hampshire’s Wildlife and Forests
The NH Coverts Project is accepting applications from new volunteers interested in becoming a coverts volunteer and participating in the 2025 NH Coverts Project volunteer training workshop, May 14–17, 2025. The training will be held at the Barbara C. Harris Conference Center in Greenfield, NH. Since its beginning in 1995, the NH Coverts Project has trained over 500 volunteers in promoting wildlife conservation and forest stewardship throughout the state. Each year, 25 conservation-minded residents connect with a team of natural resource professionals in the 4-day training to learn more about wildlife and forest ecology, habitat management, land conservation, and effective outreach to share their new learnings. There is a $50 registration fee, however program sponsors cover all other program costs. In exchange for the training, participants commit to volunteer at least 40 hours of their time during the coming year to educate and motivate others to become stewards of the state’s wildlife and forest resources.
To apply for this year’s NH Coverts Project training, download and complete the 2025 NH Coverts Project Application by visiting nhcoverts.org. The application deadline is March 1, 2025. For more information, visit the project website at nhcoverts.org, or contact Project Coordinator Haley Andreozzi at haley.andreozzi@unh.edu or 603-
862-5327.
A covert, pronounced “cover” with a “t,” is a thicket that provides shelter for wildlife. The term symbolizes the project’s goal of enhancing, restoring, and conserving habitat for native wildlife in New Hampshire. Once trained through the Coverts Program, participants become members of a knowledgeable statewide network connected through newsletters, field trips, and workshops. Coverts volunteers give their time in a variety of ways. Some lead field walks or organize volunteer workdays, while others serve on town boards or manage their own property for wildlife habitat. A recent participant shared, “[The training workshop] gave me additional knowledge and confidence to reach out and make an impact. This past year, I have organized an educational workshop, hosted several wildlife habitat work days, spoken in public forums, and connected with public and private landowners on wildlife habitat-related topics.” Volunteers come from many backgrounds and professions, but they are united in their desire to help New Hampshire’s wildlife and forests.
The NH Coverts Project is sponsored by UNH Cooperative Extension and the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. The program also receives support from the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Division of Forests and Lands.
Effingham Public Library Programs
Artist and illustrator, Susan Spellman will be the featured artist at the Effingham Public Library until February 25. Her exquisite illustrations have graced the pages of numerous children’s books much to the delight of readers spanning all ages. Her artistic style and attention to detail bring stories to life. In the retelling of each story in visual images, Susan creates expressive and meaningful connections for the reader.
regional awards.
Susan has participated in many group and solo shows exhibiting her drawings and paintings, and is a member of the “Newburyport Ten Plein Air Painters,”
After earning a BA from Marymount College with a major in art, Susan started her career working for Educational Directions Inc., a company specializing in educational filmstrips. She illustrated entire filmstrips of fairy tales and folklore where she learned the process of visual storytelling. Over the last 40 years, she has illustrated more than 40 books, and created illustrations for children’s magazines, puzzles, and a variety of educational publications.
The North Shore Artists Association in Gloucester MA, the Newburyport Art Association, and the greater Haverhill Arts Association. She has been an art instructor specializing in drawing, watercolor, and Plein Air painting and drawing, and a visiting artist to schools and organizations throughout New England. A list of books she has illustrated and a partial client list are included at www.spellmancollection.com/ about-me.
Recently, three of the books she illustrated have won four national and
Continued from page 3
The Effingham Public Library is a community center with books; offering free library cards, programming, and social activities for all. For our calendar of events, or more information, please feel free to call us at 603-5391537, or visit our website at effingham. lib.nh.us/
on both sides of the Snowmobile. He also has the original 1926 license plate. “It is really fun to drive and, when we have snow, I give rides to people.”
pany for its employees (only about 49 made); a 1969 snow coupe (which cost more new than Crane’s new-at-thetime 1968 Chevy pickup truck); a 1966 Skiroule snowmobile; and a massive 1944 Bombardier B-12 snow coach.
On the last, he comments, “This holds 12 passengers. They used it in Canada for buses, bringing kids to school and everything. That’s what I have been told.”
When asked, “What got you started on collecting snowmobiles?” he states, “I am the first American to ride on a snowmobile prototype in Canada with Armand Bombardier and boss Bob Bottoms. That was in 1958. And, in 1969, we brought the first Ski-Doo into the United States and I rode on that, too. I’ve been collecting since 1961.”
A former snowmobile dealer and distributor, Crane has both sold snowmobiles and set up dealers in Maine, New Hampshire, and parts of Vermont. The brands Polaris, SkiDoo, Yamaha, Johnson, Skiroule, Bombardier, and more are all represented in Crane’s Snowmobile Museum collection.
Among the exhibits are a Blue Goose snowmobile, made by an aircraft com-
Crane holds a show at his museum on the first Saturday in February. “We have a lot to share. A lot of people bring their sleds and I give trophies, quite a few trophies. It depends on the year and depends on how cold it is out there, but I get anywhere from 60-100 sleds. And we serve food.”
Crane’s Snowmobile Museum is located at 172 Main Street in Lancaster. The museum is open primarily by appointment only. Paul Crane can be reached at 603-443-7272 or at home at 603-788-3770. There is an admission fee
• Snowmobile
Yesteryear
Battling Cabin Fever in the Mt. Washington Valley
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
The months after Christmas are typically cold and snowy in New Hampshire’s North Country. In our modern world, we have many avenues of entertainment to stave off cabin fever. While we might assume those who lived long ago had little in the way of entertainment in the winter, North Country citizens made plenty of fun for themselves, from movies to social gatherings. These events made the months until springtime much easier to handle and perhaps lightened the load of shovels full of snow and the slow ticking off of each day on the calendar.
Those looking to find after-Christmas bargains in 1915 could head to Rochester for a 60th anniversary Great Winter Clearance Sale by Feineman Brothers, billed as “New Hampshire’s Leading Clothing and Shoe Store.” The sale would be the biggest in the history of the store. The store had a long history
and opened in 1855.
In the clothing department, men’s suits were priced on sale from $3.75 to a staggering $25! Underwear was called “Furnishing Goods” and priced from 35 cents to $1.36. Shoes also were on sale for men and women, as well as children. A trip to Rochester was certainly worth the effort at a time when one must take a train from Conway if they did not have an automobile.
In February of 1915, weddings were a common occurrence, often simple celebrations in the home of the bride or groom’s parents. Ceremonies took place in the parsonage of a couple’s chosen church, as was the case of a January 30, 1915 wedding and another on February 3, 1915
The Conway Reporter in its February 4, 1915 edition wrote of “a century of uninterrupted peace between two great nations as an event not to be passed lightly over. Feb. 14 will be the hun-
On A Winter’s
Night Reunion Tour and St. Patrick’s Day Festivities
This Valentine’s Day Stone Mountain Arts Center is presenting another Reunion Tour of “On A Winter’s Night” from veteran singer-songwriters John Gorka, Patty Larkin, Lucy Kaplansky, and Cliff Eberhardt, that remain among the brightest stars of the singer/songwriter movement for the past three decades. In 1994 musicians gathered together, to showcase music of the Winter Season on the now-classic On A Winter’s Night CD, followed by several years of touring collaborations. As soloists, these artists have released dozens of recordings and toured steadily through the decades, with fond memories of their touring days together. The winter season is again celebrated by these unique and popular performers, back together by popular demand. Show begins at 8 pm. Our lobby may or may not be open
dredth anniversary of the signing of the treaty of peace between England and the good old U.S.A., and the churches throughout the nation will have special services in commemoration of this event.” Surely the occasion was marked in the Conway area as it was elsewhere.
Service clubs of all kinds brought people together for socializing and volunteering for the community. It helped fight off the isolation wintertime could bring, and the Custer Relief Corps, No. 71 of Conway installed at a meeting a number of new officers. The group appears to have been made up solely of women with such officers as assistant guards, secretaries, color bearers, press correspondents, and patriotic instructors, among others.
Another group in the Conway area was called the Chataque Club and they held a January 1921 meeting in the Farm Bureau office for regular business and plans for an Achievement Night to be presented at the Bijou Theatre with free admission on January 28. Committees were formed to handle decorations, food and more for the upcoming event. Following the meeting, the group gathered at the home of Mrs. Ruth Kennett to “practice club songs.”
In January of 1921, the Conway Woman’s Club met at the home of a member for business and two solo per-
formances. Following was a talk on Local Betterment by Dr. Helen McGillicuddy of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (Dr. Helen was a field agent in charge of the Bureau of Protective Measures U.S. Local Hygiene Board.) The Club planned its annual Gentlemen’s Night to take place the following Tuesday evening in the Congregational Church vestry. There would be a dinner and guest speaker, Professor Daniel Evans, giving a talk on “The Kind of Men and Women the Day Demands.”
An interesting tidbit of information in the Conway Reporter dated February 10, 1921 brought to light the skills of Mrs. Sophie Shaw of Conway. It seems from the time between Christmas and January 31, she managed to make 103 pounds of butter from four cows!
Should you have been a female living in the Mt. Washington Valley in early winter in the 1920s, you could rest assured, according to an ad in a January 1921 Reporter issue, that “Women Folks Are Always Welcome” at the Conway National Bank.
For those tired of walking or maintaining a horse, the option of a car was enticing in 1915. An ad in the Reporter informed the reader they could purchase a Chassis for $285, a Runabout • Yearyear
continued on page 14
for lingering. Please check before you come if you want to come a little early. Lobby opens at 5 pm. Dinner Seating begins at 6 pm.
On Saint Patrick’s Day, a celebration of the greenest of holidays. Come join us for a festive Irish feast. Between courses Carol Noonan and friends will perform some of your Irish favorites. Don’t worry if you don’t like Corned Beef, there will be plenty of other options. But for those of you who do like that “corney” dish, Carol’s version like her Danny Boy, is the best that this blarney neck of the woods has to offer! Doors open at the dimming of the day at 5:30. Show starts at 6:00 with a welcome drink and your first course so don’t be late.
Stone Mountain Arts Center 695 Dug Way Road, Brownfield, Maine 04010, Box Office: 207-935-7292
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What’s UP
Please call ahead for event updates. Information and schedules subject to change.
Through Jan., Photography Exhibit by Jane Davidson, Freedom Public Library, 38 Old Portland Rd., Freedom, 603-539-5176, www.freedompubliclibrary.org.
Through Jan. 31, Susan Spellman exhibit, children’s book illustrations, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, effingham.lib.nh.us/
Through March, Mount Washington Snowcoach Tours, take a ride to the tree line on the Mt. Washington Auto Road, at approximately 4,200 feet, into a sub-arctic world tour narrated by expert guides, info/tickets: www.greatglentrails.com
Through March 9, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Sundays, learn and improve skills on the snow, Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-4663988, www.greatglentrails.com
Jan. 17, Dervish, 8 p.m., Irish traditional ensemble, Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Jan. 17, Jr. Meister Race League, 3 – 5:30 p.m., Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1 800-786-6754.
Jan. 17, Parents Night Out, 4 – 8:30 p.m., parents with children in grades 1-6 drop off kids for a few hours of parental relaxation, get dinner, run errands, etc. Children enjoy an evening of activities, pizza and drinks, Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, 603-539-1307.
Jan. 17, Snow Train, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., 603-356-5251, station located at 38 Norcross Circle, North Conway, www.conwayscenic.com. (More trains scheduled as well.)
Jan. 17, Steven Moore at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 18, Dan Aldrich at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 18, Paranormal Activity Explained with Jason Engle, professional paranormal investigator of New England, 10 – 11 a.m., Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, effingham.lib.nh.us/.
Jan. 18, Quinn Sullivan, 8 p.m., vocals and guitar, Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Jan. 18, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 4 – 7 p.m., music with Steve Tremblay, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-786-6754.
Jan. 18, TMCC Snowshoe Tour, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, registration/info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Jan. 18 & 19, Women’s Winter Escape, 8:15 a.m., Great Glen Trails, outdoor center/activities, Mt. Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www. greatglentrails.com
Jan. 18-19 & 25, Cranapalooza, party in Schneider Square, music, games and more, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-7866754. (Also Feb. 1, 8, 15 & March 1)
Jan. 19, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 4 - 7 p.m., music with Mike & Becca of Rek’-Lis, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-786-6754.
Jan. 21, Mt. Washington Valley Heals, 5:30 – 7 p.m., community healing issues, Periodical Room, Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org
Jan. 22, Kevin Dolan & Simon Crawford, 7 p.m., Majestic Café, 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, mountaintopmusic.org.
Jan. 22, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m., music with Steve Flaherty, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800786-6754.
Jan. 22, Sign Language Interpretation with Don and Patty Poulin, 10 –11 a.m., Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-5391537, effingham.lib.nh.us/
Jan. 22, Yoga for Kids and Caregivers, 11 - 11:45 a.m., program by Dixie Lee for families, breathing exercises, stretches, BYO mat, Ham Community Room, Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www. conwaypubliclibrary.org
Jan. 23, Film Screening: The Beaver Believers, 7 - 8 p.m., Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, space limited, registration/ info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
What’s UP
Jan. 23, Seth Gallant & Pinkerton, 7 p.m., Majestic Café, , 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.mountaintopmusic.org
Jan. 23, Trivia Night at Big Day Brewing, 7 – 8:30 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 24, Brad Hooper at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 25, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 4 - 7 p.m., music with Steve Haidaichuk, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-7866754.
Jan. 25, M.W. Otto Rhode Memorial Skin & Ski, 11:30 a.m., Great Glen Trails, one day of the year to ski or snowboard down Mt. Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com
Jan. 25, Personality Mini Sessions, with Krista Tesseyman Photography, 10 a.m. – noon, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603539-1537, effingham.lib.nh.us/.
Jan. 25, Randy Messineo at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 25, The Suitcase Junket, 8 p.m., Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Jan. 25, TMCC Snowshoe Tour, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, registration/info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Jan. 25, Winter Owling Trip: Scarborough Marsh, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, registration/info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Jan. 27, Book Discussion Group, 4 – 5 p.m., Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org
Jan. 29, Appalachian Mt. Club International Dinner & Adventure Series, 6 – 7 p.m., Jan.-March, Rt. 16, Gorham, Pinkham Notch, 603—466-2727, www. outdoors.org.
Jan. 29, Book Club – The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, effingham.lib.nh.us/.
Jan. 29, Kevin Dolan & Simon Crawford, 7 p.m., Majestic Café, , 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.mountaintopmusic.org
Jan. 29, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., music with Arthur James, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-7866754.
Jan. 29, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, effingham.lib.nh.us/
Jan. 29, Yoga for Kids and Caregivers, 11 - 11:45 a.m., program by Dixie Lee for families, breathing exercises, stretches, BYO mat, Ham Community Room, Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www. conwaypubliclibrary.org
Jan. 30, Jim “Doc” Pacheco, 7 p.m., Majestic Café, 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.mountaintopmusic.org
Jan. 30, Skywatch: What’s Up in Tonight’s Sky, 5 – 7:30 p.m., hosted by NH Astronomical Society, Ham Community Room, Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org
Jan. 30, Trivia Night at Big Day Brewing, 7 – 8:30 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 31, Dan Parkhurst at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Jan. 31, Travelin’ McCourys, 8 p.m., banjo & mandolin bluegrass, Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Jan. 31, Winter Astronomy Field Program, 6 – 7:30 p.m., Jackson Field Station, Rockwell Drive, Jackson, program presented by Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, registration/info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Jan. 31-Feb. 2, NH Sanctioned & Jackson Invitational Snow Sculpting Competition, Great Glen Trails, 1 Mount Washington Rd., Gorham, by Jackson Chamber of Commerce, 978-580-0905, www.jacksonnh.com.
Feb. 1, BlueGrit Blues Band, 7 p.m., Majestic Café, , 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, www.mountaintopmusic.org
What’s UP
Feb. 1, Clements Brothers, 8 p.m., folk music, Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter. com
Feb. 1, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 4 - 7 p.m., music with Chris Shalick, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-786-6754.
Feb. 1, Take Your Child to the Library Day with Musical Guest Steve Blunt, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org
Feb. 1, 8, 15 & March 1, Cranapalooza, party in Schneider Square, music, games and more, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-786-6754.
Feb. 2, 9 & 23, Uphill Series, 8 – 11 a.m., weekly group ski for all levels, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-SUN-N-SKI, www.cranmore.com
Feb. 5, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., music with Ryan St. Onge, Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-7866754.
Feb. 6, Art Lesson with Local Artist, 6 – 7:30 p.m., learn art fundamental with local artist Jessie, Ham Room, Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org
Feb. 6, Trivia Night at Big Day Brewing, 7 – 8:30 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Feb. 7, Harry Manx, 8 p.m., Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Feb. 7, Sly Richard at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Feb. 8, Al Hospers Band at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Feb. 8, Cecilia, 8 p.m., Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Feb. 8, Live Music in Koessler’s Pub, 4 - 7 p.m., Cranmore Mountain Resort, 239 Skimobile Rd., N. Conway, 1-800-786-6754.
Feb. 11, A Yellowstone Spring: New Life Begins, 4 - 5 p.m., experience the glory of Yellowstone’s wildlife, Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org
Feb. 13, Trivia Night at Big Day Brewing, 7 – 8:30 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Feb. 14, Brad Hooper at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Feb. 14, On A Winter’s Night on Valentine’s Day, 8 p.m., Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
Feb. 15, Love in the Country, 8 p.m., Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com.
Feb. 15, The Barnyard Incident at Big Day Brewing, 6 - 9 p.m., 20 Glen Rd., Gorham, 603-915-9006, www.bigdaybrewing.com.
Feb. 20, Comedian Bob Marley, 8 p.m., vocals and guitar, Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield, Maine, 207-935-7292, www.stonemountainartscenter.com
ONGOING
ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts/CCAC, art, workshops and events, open year-round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www. chocoruaartworks.com.
Believe in Books Literacy Foundation/Theatre in the Wood, Intervale, programs for children, 603-356-9980, www.believeinbooks.org.
Breakfast Buffet, 7 a.m. - 11 a.m., Wolfeboro Masonic Lodge, 35 Trotting Track Rd, Wolfeboro. Pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, home fries, bacon, sausage, omelets made-to-order, Eggs Benedict, biscuit and gravy, juice, and coffee. Served the second Sunday of every month. 603-569-4637.
Cog Railway, 3168 Base Station Rd., Mount Washington, 800-922-8825, www. thecog.com.
Conway Historical Society, historical info., 603-447-5551, www.conwayhistoricalsociety.org.
Conway Public Library, 15 Greenwood Avenue, Conway, many learning experiences, 603-447-5552, www.conwaypubliclibrary.org.
What’s UP
Conway Scenic Railroad, train rides to White Mt. areas, reservations: 603356-5251, station located at 38 Norcross Circle, North Conway, www.conwayscenic.com.
Great Glen Trails, outdoor center/activities, Mt. Washington Auto Rd., Gorham, 603-466-3988, www.greatglentrails.com
Guided Snowshoe Tours, Jackson Ski Touring Foundation, call for hours, 603383-9355, 153 Main St., Jackson, www.jacksonxc.org
In the Round, Sundays at 8:45 a.m., thought-provoking topics related to tolerance, Benz Center, Sandwich, 603-284-7532.
Indoor Pickleball, 5 p.m., Sandwich Central School gym, Sandwich, every Tues., Wed. & Fri., parksandrec@sandwichnh.org
Jackson Historical Society, open Saturdays & Sundays, Jackson Historical Society, 23 Black Mt. Rd., Jackson, info./hours: 603-383-4060, www.jacksonhistory.org.
Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, meets second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro. A second group meets first and third Tuesday of each month at Community Center, 22 Lehner St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net.
Lakes Region Curling Association, fall & winter leagues, matches at Pop Whalen Ice & Arts Center, 84 S. Main St., Wolfeboro, Sundays 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., 603-569-5639.
Majestic Café, jazz, blues, and more, 34 Main St., Conway, 603-447-4737, mountaintopmusic.org.
Makers Mill, variety of workshops, classes in arts and crafts and more, Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org.
Making Strides, 8 – 9 a.m., daily drop-in walking for groups or singles, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, www.ossipee.recdesk.com.
Mt. Washington Valley Arts Assoc., 16 Norcross Circle, North Conway, 603356-2787, www.mwvarts.org.
Naturalist Led Hikes, Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, space limited, registration/info.: 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
NE Ski Museum, ski exhibits, 2628 White Mt. Highway, North Conway, www. newenglandskimuseum.org.
Outdoor Nature Based Storytime for Young Children, Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Quilting Group, 1 - 4 p.m., meets every 2 weeks, Ossipee Public Library, 74 Main St., Ossipee, schedule/info: 603-539-6390
Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, events, tours, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org.
Roller Skating Night, 5 p.m., Mondays, bring your own skates, for age 18 and up, Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, info/updates: 603-539-1307, www.ossipee.org.
Second Saturday Contradance, Tamworth Outing Club, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, admission charged, info.: Amy Berrier 603-651-5800 or Teresa Fournier at 978-609-2181.
Song and Jam Circle, 6:30 – 8 p.m., community created jams and song circle, 3rd Monday of each month, Runnells Hall, 25 Deer Hill Rd., Tamworth, free, bring your favorite instruments, Arts Council of Tamworth, 603-584-2712, www.artstamworth.org
Tamworth Farmer’s Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m. - noon, 30 Tamworth Road, Tamworth, info: www.tamworthfarmersmarket.org.
Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, info: www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.
Tamworth Townhouse Hoot – Bruce Berquist & Jim Alt, 1 – 3 p.m., Saturdays, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, song circle, local musicians welcome to participate, bruceberquist@gmail.com
Thursday Night Book Club, meets fourth Thursday of every month for discussion of books; Mystery Book Club meets second Thursday of the month, White Birch Books, 2568 White Mt. Highway, North Conway, 603-356-3200, www. whitebirchbooks.com.
Tin Mountain Conservation Center, 1245 Bald Hill Rd., Albany, programs, hikes, nature learning center, 603-447-6991, www.tinmountain.org.
Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets every Wed. from 4 - 6 p.m., in basement of All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603-520-5651.
Dealing With Pain?
Quantum Healing Can Help!
“My sister set up a meeting for me after she experienced amazing transformation to her health and felt I too would benefit from a chance to feel better in all aspects of life. She was right. It works! From the first session and the follow-up practices I was taught, my back pain remarkably decreased, balance has increased, posture improved, and an unexpected financial opportunity! Now I see that the changes in my way of thinking brings good into my life. I am so grateful to be getting my stride back” — KAREN, SPRING CREEK, NV
for sale by owner
The Duck (DUKW) boat is a six-wheel drive amphibious modified 2 ½ ton truck that was originally used by the US military in World War ll. Designed in partnership between GMC and Sparkman & Stephens, they were used to transport goods and troops over land and water. Though they were intended to only last as long as the demands of combat they have found a popular use in tourism during the post-war era.This highly desirable Duck Boat is a true 1944 WWll survivor that has been given a second life. This “stretch boat” was built in Hawaii, then found its way to Key West before ending up in New England. This Duck Boat is Coast Guard verified and had an original public cost of $140k. While Duck Boats are not able to make highway speeds, this Duck Boat can reach up to 35 mph, from the power provided by the 6.2-liter GM Diesel motor that is mated to a Turbo 350 transmission, with a redesigned full cooling system that includes two large custom aluminum radiators. For more information call 603-520-1002.
Inspired Slow Cooker Recipes
By Chef Kelly
Happy New Year to all of you. Before going further, I want to send a big hug to a few family members as we lost my dear Aunt Dolly a few weeks back. Dolly was amazing as she lived to 97 years young and will be missed.
This is the time of year that screams for certain foods and a few of you have reached out to me to bust out the slow cooker to address some dinner ideas and why not? The winter season is infamous for looking for great comfort foods with as little prep involved as possible with the best results. Makes sense to me. Depending on how much time you have and what you plan to cook, you have different options with the slow cooker. No desserts today my friends so I apologize now, but I do have a bunch of food and drink fun for all of you.
For starters, a drink to get you going. This is not an alcoholic drink as I write it up, but so easy to make it that way. This is a warm apple cranberry cider drink done in your slow cooker that is guaranteed to make almost everyone excited. For the cocktail crowd, adding a shot of warm rum to this cider will rock your boat. Almost everyone loves apple cider, and the combo of cranberries, as well as orange juice, makes this one a gem on a cold day or night when you want to hunker down by the fire or while watching a movie on the couch. You can make this in a 4–6-quart slow cooker and I generally let this go for about 3 hours on low, but speed things up if needed. You will only need 6 ingredients, and it’s delicious. This will get you 10 servings or so and this is the all-time simplest recipe to make.
Slow Cooker Cranberry Apple Cider
1 qt pure apple juice, unsweetened
2 cups pure orange juice, unsweetened
1 qt cranberry juice unsweetened
¼ - ½ cup honey or other sweetener to taste
3 cinnamon sticks whole 1/8 tsp ground cloves
Add all ingredients to a 4 quart or larger slow cooker. Stir. Cook at least 3-4 hours on low or until hot. Keep warm as long as needed on the low or warm setting. That’s it boys and girls. Leftovers refrigerate wonderfully and
reheat just fine. Garnish with orange slices and/or anything else that sounds great.
Let’s talk soups now as I have a couple of them that will be perfect for you. These are both ideal for the winter season as they are both very hearty with a bunch of great goodies guaranteed to warm you up and make your taste buds happy. First off, let’s go with a southwestern potato and corn chowder with a great south-of-the-border flavor to it. I lied to you a little as this is the only recipe of the day not done in a slow cooker. This is done on your stovetop and can be finished in less than an hour
if you want to make it quick although letting it simmer for a while isn’t a bad thing. I usually have this prepped in 30 minutes and then it’s all cooking time. This will take care of 8 of you at least and most will want more. This is another from the “easy” handbook.
Smoky Southwestern Potato and Corn Chowder
2 tbsp oil
2 red bell peppers, diced
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
2 lb red potatoes, cut into ½ inch pieces
16-20 oz frozen corn kernels, not canned
1 qt low sodium chicken broth
2 tsp salt
¾ tsp black pepper
2 cups evaporated milk ideally, or cream and/or half and half
2 tbsp flour
3 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
3-4 green onions, sliced
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add oil and cook pepper and onion until soft, 3-4 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic, cumin and chili powder and cook and stir for one minute. Add potatoes, corn, broth, salt and pepper and stir. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook until potatoes and vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes. Whisk together milk or cream with flour and add to the simmering
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soup. Cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in cheese, green onions and taste. Adjust seasonings as desired and serve.
The next soup has an Italian creamy vegetable and sausage feel to it as it is chock full of both as well as one of my favorite pasta choices, tortellini. I’m a self-admitted tortellini-aholic as I love using them in sauté dishes, pasta salads, and yes, in soups. I am back to using a slow cooker for this one as it will work fine. When done in a slow cooker mode, I plan on 6+ hours which is the route I usually go, but if you cook on high, this can be done in closer to 4 hours. This will feed 10-12 of you and this is great with a nice crusty bread for dipping, and I do often buy some bread bowls to bake and serve the soup in those. Wicked Good!
Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup
1 ½ lb ground Italian sausage, sweet and/or spicy
1 onion, finely diced
4 tbsp tomato paste
3 tsp Italian seasoning
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ tsp salt
2 qts low sodium chicken broth
4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
4 ribs celery, sliced
24 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
4 cups fresh chopped spinach or kale
2 cups cream, whether heavy, light, or half and half
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage and onion over medium-high heat, stirring often, until browned and drain excess fat. Add tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic and salt. Cook and stir 2 minutes. Pour the sausage mixture into a 4–6-quart slow cooker and add in the broth, carrots, celery, and onion. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender. Stir in tortellini, spinach, cream and Parmesan. Cover and let cook for 10-15 minutes until tortellini
are al dente. Taste, adjust seasonings as desired, and serve. Don’t forget the bread!
As we move onto ideas that are considered more of a meal, these are great lunch or dinner options depending on how you want to use them, especially this first one. Pulled pork is always a popular winner in my house as well as when I was running professional kitchens for a bunch of years. There are dozens of ways to prepare pulled pork with an array of flavors to go with, not to mention there are many ways to serve it, hence the dinner or lunch thoughts, but if you haven’t had one before, I suggest giving a pulled pork omelet a shot sometime. I love a great pulled pork sandwich on an onion roll dripping with sauce, sauteed onions and cheese. A quesadilla is another fun way to enjoy and never forget about pulled pork nachos. It also works as is served on a plate with some taters and veg. The prominent flavors in this batch of pork are somewhat of a homemade BBQ sauce combined with one of my favorite flavors, balsamic vinegar. I make mine at home in a slow cooker to start and will finish it on the stove or in the cooker depending on my mood. I usually have this done in 4 hours and, although it depends on how you use the pork, I usually can feed 10-12 lucky eaters.
Slow Cooker Honey Balsamic Pulled Pork
4 lb boneless pork roast, shoulder or butt is best
1 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
2 tsp seasoned salt
2 tsp garlic powder
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1 cup ketchup
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup honey
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp minced garlic
¼ tsp black pepper
⅛ tsp red pepper flakes
1 tbsp corn starch
1 tbsp water
Cut the roast into 1-inch cubes. Combine seasoning salt and garlic powder and rub all over pork. Add oil to a pan and sear pork chunks on all sides until golden brown. You may have to do this in batches. Remove the pork hunks and put into the slow cooker with the broth, put the lid on and turn to high to cook in a few hours or low to cook most of the day. Check after a few hours if on high and see if the pork is ready to fall apart. Remove pork with a mesh strainer or slotted spoon and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before shredding. Drain the juices from the cooker and strain to save any meat still hanging around. Add 1 cup of those cooking juices back into the cooker. Add vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, pepper
and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook on high until the sauce has slightly reduced, usually another hour or 2 depending on your cooker. If desired, stir together cornstarch and water and add to sauce to thicken. Shred meat and add to the sauce in the cooker. If you care to speed things up once you have pulled the pork out originally, you can make the sauce in a pot on the stove and then add the pulled pork. Leftover pulled pork will last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave or on low on the stove until heated through. This is
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arguably my favorite way to eat pork as it is as delicious as it is versatile in how you can serve it.
To end our day with our slow cooker love is a fun and cheesy Mexican lasagna that is a perfect winter “stick to your ribs” kind of comfort food love. This crock pot Mexican gem of a recipe has layers of delicious cheese and taco seasoned ground beef with many more ingredients associated with a Mexican lasagna that is outstanding. The “noodles” are corn tortillas and some of the other great flavors involved are black beans, corn, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream and chopped cilantro which all combine making a meal that is as awesome as it is fun. This takes me 10-15 minutes to prep and then another 4-5 hours when cooked on low or 2 ½ - 3 ½ hours on high. This will feed 8.
Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna
1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
1 ½ onions diced
3 tsp minced garlic
1 ½ packets taco seasoning
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
1 ½ cans black beans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed. Use them all if you care to
1 ½ cans corn, 15 oz each, drained. Again, use all if preferred
1 ½ cans diced tomatoes with green chilis, 15 oz each, undrained
1 ½ cups salsa
3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
12-15 corn tortillas, 6 inch in diameter
1 ½ cups sour cream, optional
Fresh cilantro chopped for garnish
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess fat. Stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilis, and salsa. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through. Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the crockpot. Place a layer of corn tortillas over the beef mixture, tearing them as needed to cover the space. Spoon more of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the lasagna is heated through, and the cheese is melted. Like any lasagna, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before digging in as to let it set which will make it easier to cut and serve. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on each portion and garnish with fresh cilantro. If you and your crew of eaters like some spice, add some sliced jalapenos to the layering process. That’s it my friends. Like many do, feel free to touch base with any suggestions for future articles, as well as if you have any questions or feedback on any of today’s recipes by reaching out to fenwaysox10@gmail.com. Above all, always keep your taste buds happy everyone and until next time, enjoy your next few weeks and I miss you Aunt Dolly.
Paranormal 101 with Jason Engel, NH Assistant Director of PI-NE
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to come face to face with the paranormal? Have you ever had an encounter with a Ghost, Bigfoot, or a UFO? Are you curious about what it takes to investigate the unknown? Join us Saturday, January 18 at 10 am and learn how to peel back the layers of reality for yourself! Share your stories and ask questions. Come see and hear the evidence and stories from our personal encounters and evidence!
Jason Engel, NH Assistant Director of New England Paranormal Investigators of New England will be here to present “Paranormal Investigation 101.” The equipment they use for in-
Bakers Set to
vestigations will also be on display. Since 2004, Paranormal Investigators of New England has been serving the New England community helping those who are having strange experiences they can’t explain! You don’t want to miss this!
The Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Road, Effingham NH, is a community center with books; offering free library cards, programming, and social activities for all. For our calendar of events, or more information, please feel free to call us at 603-5391537, or visit our website at effingham. lib.nh.us/
Square off in
13th Annual Cupcake Battle
This fund-raising event for Mount Washington Valley Promotions will take place on Sunday, February 16 at the North Conway Community Center. Bakers will square off in 3 categories (professional, home, and child) with a winner selected in each division.
Bakers must supply a minimum of 230 mini cupcakes, all of the same flavor, and set up a display table for the duration of the event. Attendees purchase a $12 ticket which entitles them to sample one cupcake from each baker and to vote for a favorite in each cate-
gory.
Set-up on Battle Day is between 11:00 am and 12:30 pm. Doors will open to the public at 1:00 pm and tasting will run until 2:30 pm, followed by awards. The winner in the Professional category receives a $350 cash award, while the top Home baker earns $150, and the Under 16 winner $50. Space is filling fast but still available for interested bakers. Sponsors are also being sought. For full details, contact Lisa DuFault, via email at valleypromotion@gmail.com.
Adventures in RV Life Embrace the Open Road
Hit the Road Together: The Perks of Joining an RV Organization
By Dick and Barbara Higgins
So, you made the decision to join the RV community. You might have also decided on what type, style, and size RV works best for your circumstances (and there are many to consider). In future articles, we will focus on the particular details of each type of RV, down to the smallest of characteristics, and describe these accurately to the best of our knowledge.
But for now, in this article, we will be concentrating on a decision that may or may not become a consideration for you. That decision will be on whether to join organizations, clubs, manufacturers/dealers incentive rallies, or local/ neighborhood rallies (these can be very informal, loosely organized and meant to be just a fun weekend gathering in someone’s yard or at a campground nearby). In our 40+ years of RVing, we have met many folks who weren’t interested in being part of any officially organized RVing activities, especially when they’re young folks with a young family. This is very understandable; we were the same way for many years. Typically, they already have a full calendar with family events, kids school-related activities, or other time-consuming func-
tions. Since most organized RV clubs, rallies, or other events take place on long weekends, even young families can participate once they adjust their schedules to accommodate. There is so much to see, do, and learn about at these gatherings for young and old alike. Generally, it’s the mid-range to older folks who are retired, semi-retired, working from home, or those with special circumstances that allow them to be more involved in clubs and organizations. Sometimes, depending on circumstances, the elderly RVers can be seen traveling and exploring with their grandkids (usually shortterm). This, however, doesn’t prevent them from being involved in any ventures they may have chosen. As a matter of fact, the exposure the grandkids experience to the whole RVing lifestyle is immeasurable. As an RVer, learning never ends. As you can imagine, there are many gains for the grandkids in the structure, operations, and (ahem!) politics of clubs and organizations. These first-hand experiences can stay with them for years to come.
One of the largest RV organizations that spans the US and much of Canada is FRVA (formally called FMCA). FRVA stands for Family Recreational
Vehicle Association, formerly Family Motor Coach Association. FMCA was formed in 1963 in Hinckley, Maine, by several folks with basically homemade motorhomes (the industry was in its infancy) with the same desire to form an organized group and plan future gatherings. They didn’t realize it at the time, but their ideas really struck a chord with many folks and the popularity of FMCA grew over the years. From 1963 to early 2024 FMCA had restricted membership to only fully self-contained with kitchen, bath, & bedroom facilities in a drivable RV unit, i.e. motorcoach owners. This original concept was changed in 2024 to include all RVers, with all types of RV’s. Thus, the formation of FRVA. The operations and functions remain the same. The country is divided into 10 areas with each being operated independently, as well as collectively and under the collaborative direction of the central offices in Cincinnati. This is where the hired staff and the elected officers oversee all operations as well as provide the myriad of benefits that are available; these include a medical emergency assistance/ relocation plan, a discount tire plan, a discounted roadside assistance plan, and many others. One of their prima-
ry functions is to produce the monthly magazine and get it distributed to all FRVA(FMCA) members. Just getting the magazine alone makes membership worthwhile, with all the pertinent information inside. If you choose to join, your home address will determine which of the 10 areas you can focus attention on for area rallies and “chapter” rallies within your area. You are not restricted to attending events only in your area, however. Membership gives you access to participate in any FRVA sponsored chapter, area, or national rally. It’s a great way to meet other folks with similar interests or future plans. There are many small groups that have specific like-wise interests (radio-controlled models, knitting/crocheting, sharing recipes, woodworking, etc) and they look forward to another gathering where they can share with others. So, basically, your RV becomes merely a means of transportation to get you to a meeting-up event with a whole lot more going on as well. It’s a fun time. The easiest way to join is online. If you search the web for “fmca”, a listing of 12 or more sites will appear and
• RV Life continued on page 14
you can choose among them for all the information you want about the organization. Another nationwide organization that we can recommend is the “Good Sam Club.” Join online at goodsam.com and receive the “Wild Sam” magazine 8 times a year. Like FMCA, the magazine contains a lot of information and advertising that can be very useful for newcomers to RVing, as well as updated info for all. There are many very worthwhile reasons for joining.
Both FMCA and Good Sam organizations do not promote manufacturers or dealers even though they advertise in the magazines. They provide pros and cons on the various products that they highlight in their articles and they may make comparisons, but they leave the decisions to you, the reader.
There are other national RV organizations that are either non-affiliated or manufacturer-sponsored clubs, and they all would love to have you join them. Many will provide free meals, gifts, and accommodations to win you over. The “WIT” club features rallies for all Winnebago product owners and may be located at any place at any time. “Grand Design” is another manufacturer that schedules rather extravagant gatherings that are beneficial for
their product buyers to attend. The “Escapees” is an RV club that is not associated with any manufacturer or dealer. So you can join them and participate in any of their organized rallies regardless of your type or style of RV. Just join up and if it works for you, schedule-wise and financial-wise, you might want to travel to where their rally is being held and plan on having a good time with like-minded RVers. There are other clubs out there that offer various benefits for members, some rather basic and some more extravagant. The most rewarding and satisfying benefits are the relationships and friendships that can be formed. Some can last a lifetime.
Be mindful that the benefits mentioned above with joining many RV clubs and organizations may be quite different now. Traveling during the Covid years, fuel costs and other changes in buyer preferences have all impacted the manufacturing industries and thus the ways that dealers will try to steer you to various products. It’s best to be well aware of what you want, what you need for accommodations, and exactly how much you want to spend. You can always say “Just looking, thanks” and take your time to satisfy all your preferences. Dealers can be quite helpful usually and give you some good information on the availability of local clubs or organizations. Good Luck!
for $319, a Touring Car for the price of $348 or a Sedan for $645. The garage was Conway Motor Co. and a West Ossipee branch was run by Virgil D. White (who went on to invent the early snowmobile).
The January 1922 winter carnival in the Conway/North Conway area brought outdoor fun to the area. The event was something everyone looked forward to and it fell at just the right time: late January and into early February when Christmas was but a memory and people were growing weary of the long winter season.
Some of the winter carnival events were a snowshoe hike to Mt. Surprise for hot coffee and doughnuts, train rides, a chance to meet famed sled dog racer Arthur Walden, horse racing, skating and toboggan riding on a chute, skiing and long-distant ski-jumping. Whether you were a sportsperson or just someone who wanted to watch the events, the winter carnival was a very big deal in the Mt. Washington Valley.
The Conway Reporter for February 25, 1937 had a front-page feature on an exciting event upcoming on March 3. As citizens in the area headed into more cold weather and an expected mud season, the Eastern Slope Ski Show would thrill audiences with “The Ski Chase.”
The full-length feature picture starred Hannes Schneider, a skilled skier who had left Europe to escape Nazi rule, settling in North Conway where he taught skiing.
The film was about skiing in the Austrian Tyrol. It first ran in Boston to en-
thusiastic crowds and was to be shown at the North Conway Theatre on March 3, presented by the Ski Club (local group).
If you were a housewife in the 1930s, you knew how difficult laundry was during the winter. Homes were cold, and heating water for clothes washing a major chore. Then there was the issue of drying the clothing once washed, usually on an outdoor clothesline. Hanging wash on the line and taking days to dry garments in the icy weather was problematic and frustrating but a necessity. To make at least the washing portion of the chore easier, a new wash and ironing combination machine solved at least some of those issues. The machine was for sale at the Public Service Company of New Hampshire. The company had a location in Conway, much to the delight of local women. The price of the machine? Just $79.95; it must be remembered that amount was considered much higher than in today’s market.
Wintertime of 1937 brought the escape of going to the movies and the No. Conway Theatres offered Sonja Henie and Don Ameche in “One in a Million” a dazzling winter wonderland of a movie, as well as “Maid of Salem” with Claudette Colbert and Fred MacMurray. Also offered at the theatre was “The Big Broadcast of 1937.”
From taking a train ride to shop in Rochester to thrilling winter carnival events and joining friends at a club or going to the movies, there was always something to do in the Mt. Washington Valley area to get people through the long, cold winters.
*Depending on model
