TheLaker_October_14_24 by The Laker

The Fall Foliage Season: Vital to New Hampshire

By Mark Okrant

While most of us are aware that summer is New Hampshire’s leading travel season, comparatively few are cognizant of the fact that fall—not winter— is the state’s second most important generator of visitor person-nights and their dollars.

Back in 1979, my young family and I had our first opportunity to experience foliage season. We had just relocated to Plymouth, where I had amazing views of the mountains from my college office. I remember feeling a sense of disbelief at that time— it was like living a dream. And, to this day, I haven’t taken the magic of fall foliage for granted.

Research has shown that the principal reason fall visitors are attracted to New Hampshire is to take advantage of tax-free shopping opportunities. While this has been true for many decades, it is the six-week period between mid-September and the third week of October—when fall foliage makes its glorious appearance—that is the real reason.

During the annual foliage season, New Hampshire will attract hundreds of thousands of leaf gawkers, each taking advantage of the variety of settings that the state delivers for viewing colorful leaves. Within its comparatively small—9,350 square miles— area, New Hampshire’s foliage can be viewed with backdrops ranging from magnificent mountains, glacial u-shape valleys, beautiful lakes, and its small but rugged seacoast.

What conditions create the foliage that lures people to New Hampshire from throughout the US and internationally? Photosynthesis makes it possible for leaves to produce their typical

green color that lasts from early spring, throughout summer, into early fall. The key component in this process is chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is needed for plants to be able to turn sunlight into glucose, which, in turn, feeds the trees. Many millions of these chlorophyll cells saturate the leaves, ultimately making them appear green to the eye. Warm days accompanied by cool nights deliver the best combination for the production of fall colors. As night times are accompanied by increasingly colder temperatures, the soil water that had supported chlorophyll cells begins to block this process, thereby gradually bringing the production of this green

plant pigment to a halt. The result is the appearance of the true color of each leaf—one that always was present but had been camouflaged by the presence of chlorophyll.

What kind of 2024 foliage viewing season has been forecasted for New Hampshire? A few years ago, meteorologist Mel Allen, editor of Yankee Magazine, announced that there is no better place in the world to view fall foliage than in New England. However, each year, there are variations produced by day and nighttime temperatures, rainfall totals, topography, soil conditions, and predominant tree species within each area. If we can trust The Farmer’s

"After weeks of searching, I found myself at Peabody

Peabody has exceeded all of our expectations as a family. My parents have made wonderful friends, enjoy the food, field trips, group activities and social gatherings. The peace this has brought to our family is immeasurable." Chris P.

Almanac, the extreme northern portion of this state will begin to see fall-colored leaves in mid-to-late-September. Slowly, but surely, excellent conditions will move south, with most of the White Mountains and Lakes Region experiencing peak viewing conditions early in October. However, be advised that if the evening temperatures remain on the warm side, the peak will occur much later. An additional concern has been created by the high winds and heavy rains that we experienced earlier this September; those have the potential to create early leaf falls.

Where are some of the best places to view fall foliage? When the White Mountains are experiencing peak conditions, there are few better places to experience them than the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), which snakes its way through the mountains between Lincoln and Conway. Other outstanding locations are found in Franconia Notch, particularly at the Old Man Memorial Site along Profile Lake. Next, there is the classic view from Artists Bluff overlooking Echo Lake at the north end of Franconia Notch. Also, what better time to visit the region’s covered bridges?

As peak foliage moves into the Lakes Region, there are spectacular views of Mount Chocorua from the shores of Chocorua Lake. For a different experience, why not immerse yourself in a corn maze, such as the one at Moulton Farm in Meredith? If your preference lies where mountains meet one of the blue lakes, a trip aboard the MS Mount Washington won’t disappoint. The • Foliage continued on page 4

Lakes Region also offers two excellent viewing spots, neither of which will task you physically—Top of the World Road in Sandwich/North Sandwich and the West and East Rattlesnake Mountain trailhead overlooking Squam Lake. For those who prefer to view foliage from the seat of a comfortable car, you can drive the Lake Winnipesaukee Loop that circumnavigates the big lake. This route provides vistas of the White Mountains and can incorporate views of the Squam lakes.

One other excellent choice for viewing foliage is found in our backyards—literally. Traditional New England villages like Dublin, Meredith, and Stark—among the many—provide nostalgic settings with the promise of good local food and quaint small shops. Within several weeks, the Lakes Region will see auburn and gold colors leading the way, followed by its usual mix of green, yellow, and red leaves.

Peak foliage in the Lakes should appear slightly before or after October 10, with past peak arriving during the following ten days.

If you are trying to determine the perfect time to view foliage, the New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development provides a foliage tracker to help guide times for leaf peeping. There is a text version on the site; however, the division has provided an easy-to-use interactive map for travelers. Employing a map of the seven tourism regions in the state and its accompanying color-coded calendar, visitors can determine whether colorful foliage will be: absent, beginning, moderate, peak, or past peak at any given time. To find the Fall Foliage Tracker, go to www.visitnh.gov Next, by clicking on the “Discover” bar under A Leaf Peeper’s Dream, you will arrive at the ‘Fall Foliage tracker’. Updates of foliage conditions may be found by clicking on each of the map’s seven regions.

Craig Jaster Quartet to Perform an Evening of Jazz at Hermit Woods

Smiley Publishing Group, LLC dba Panoramic Publishing Group/The Laker

P.O. Box 119, Wolfeboro Falls, NH 03896 603-569-5257 in NH 1-800-339-5257 FAX 603-569-5258 pressreleases@thelaker.com • lkr@thelaker.com • www.thelaker.com

PUBLISHER

Dan Smiley

ADVERTISING

Maureen Padula

PROD. MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGN

Gina Lessard

COPY EDITOR Charlene Muscatell

CIRCULATION

Kathy Larson

October 10 - Hermit Woods is thrilled to welcome back Craig Jaster and his acclaimed jazz quartet for a night of worldclass music, delicious food, and fine wine in an intimate listening room setting. The evening will feature a blend of original compositions, jazz standards, and eclectic selections from the American songbook, all brought to life by one of New Hampshire’s most celebrated pianists and vocalists, Craig Jaster.

Jaster will be joined by a lineup of extraordinary musicians, including Paul Bourgelais on guitar, Tim Gilmore on drums, and John Hunter on acoustic bass. Together, they promise to deliver an evening filled with warmth, wit, and musical chemistry that will captivate both jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Complimentary Wine Tasting: 5:30 –6 pm, Doors Open for Dinner Service: 6 pm, Dinner Service Ends/Show Begins: 7 pm

Arrive early to experience Hermit Woods’ award-winning wines and savor a delicious meal in our relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

A Unique Listening Room Experience - Hermit Woods is committed to

providing a one-ofa-kind, up-closeand-personal experience with the performing artists. To ensure this, we ask our audience to remain silent during the performance, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in the music. This creates a truly special environment, unlike the distractions of larger, noisier venues.

After the show, guests will have the chance to meet the artists, purchase music or merchandise, and continue enjoying the ambiance of the evening. Tickets for this event are available for purchase at hermitwoods.com/music. Due to limited seating, early purchase is recommended to secure your spot for this unforgettable evening of jazz.

Hermit Woods is dedicated to bringing exceptional talent from New England and beyond to perform in our intimate venue. We strive to create a unique and immersive experience for both artists and audiences, fostering a connection that can only be achieved in small, listening-focused settings.

For additional information or media inquiries, please contact Bob Manley at 603.393.6971

Apple-icious Recipes!

By Chef Kelly Ross

Hello all, Happy October, as much as it hurts me to say that. Another big topic for this time of year is that it is officially apple season, which is what today is all about in case you were wondering. Granted, we can find apples year-round in just about any supermarket, but when we can pick our own or buy by the bagful from someone else who picked them, why not? The fall season screams apple-flavored recipes from breakfast to desserts and in certain entrees as well. Yes, today I am focusing on some sweet recipes, leaning mainly on desserts, but I also have a great homemade apple sauce recipe that can be used at dinner with most any pork dish. For starters, I am dedicating this breakfast gem to my awesome Grammy Judy, who was truly the queen of homemade bread. No matter what type of bread she made, I loved it using as toast in the morning. Although I loved them all, this was always my favorite. Yes, it’s old school cooking which means time-consuming to reach the final product, but it is so

worth it and much of the time involved is letting the dough rise. The bread is an apple cinnamon bread and with the smell of it cooking, as well as when toasted in the morning, it will have your sinuses smiling from nostril to nostril. Every slice will have a swirl of apples, brown sugar and cinnamon (all the key ingredients in any good apple recipe). This is a yeast bread requiring bread flour, not all-purpose flour, and will also need some kneading, but there is nothing like a great bread done the way breads were meant to be made. This recipe is for two loaves and, although the active time on this is only 45 minutes and the process is over 3 ½ hours, it’s well worth it.

Apple Cinnamon Bread

For The Dough

2 envelopes active dry yeast, ¼ oz each

2 cups warm water, 105-115 degrees

½ cup granulated sugar, divided

2 large eggs

1 tbsp kosher salt

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

¼ cup plus 1 tbsp vegetable oil,

divided

6-6 ½ cups bread flour, 25 ½ -27 oz, divided

1 ½ tbsp butter, melted For The Filling

2 ½ cups peeled and chopped Granny Smith apples, into about ¼ inch pieces, from 1 lb of apples, 2 large 1 cup apple cider

½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar

4 tbsp bread flour

2 tsp ground cinnamon

To prepare the dough, combine yeast, warm water, and 2 tsp of sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and let stand 5 minutes until yeast has started to bubble and foam. Add eggs, salt, lemon juice, ¼ cup of the oil, 3 cups of the bread flour and remaining sugar to yeast mixture and beat on low speed, using the paddle attachment until combined, about 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat until dough is homogenous and almost smooth, about 1 minute. Reduce speed to low and gradually beat in remaining 3-3 ½ cups flour until mixture forms a solid

mass and a soft dough starts to form, about 1 minute. Turn dough out onto a well-floured work surface, and knead until smooth and elastic, 8-10 minutes, sprinkling surface with flour as needed. To let the dough rise, spray a large bowl with cooking spray, and transfer dough from surface to bowl. Turn the dough a time or two to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place, 80 degrees, free from drafts, until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour. While you wait for the dough to rise, make the filling by placing the apples in a medium microwaveable glass bowl, pour apple cider over apples and stir to combine. Microwave apples on high power until softened, about 4 minutes. Drain and let cool to room temperature. Stir together brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. For the bread, punch dough down and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough in half. Roll each half into an 18x9inch rectangle. Sprinkle each rectangle with half the brown sugar mixture. Top • ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 6

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each rectangle with half the cooled apples. Starting at the short end, tightly roll up each rectangle, jelly-roll fashion, pressing to seal edges as you roll. Pinch ends of dough to seal, and tuck ends under dough. Place each dough roll, seam side down, in two 9x5-inch loaf pans, lightly greased with cooking spray. Brush tops with remaining tbsp oil. Cover and let rise in a warm place, 80 degrees, free from drafts, until doubled in bulk, 45-60 minutes. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake loaves until deep golden brown and sound hollow when tapped, 25-30 minutes. Transfer from pans to a wire rack, and brush with melted butter. Let cool completely, about 2 hours. Slice and serve. I ei-

ther toast the slices or butter them and grill them, which is also outstanding. Let’s make some applesauce. Ever since I was an ankle biter, I have memories of eating applesauce as it was a staple in my lunches for school when my mom packed my lunches. Once I ate homemade applesauce for the first time, buying the store-bought version just hasn’t hit the spot the way it used to as making it yourself is 20-fold better. This works as a healthy snack or side dish for all ages, and one of my favorite aspects of making it yourself is you can make it as chunky or as thin as you like depending on your preferences, not to mention this is delicious when warm as well as cold. Prep time is 15 minutes, cooking time is a half hour and will get you 8 servings. I always multiply this recipe by at least 5

as everyone inhales it, plus I usually like to freeze some of it for later.

Homemade Applesauce

4 lbs apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

⅓ cup water

1 tsp cinnamon

Pinch of sea salt

Combine the apples, apple cider vinegar, and water in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Cook over low heat, stirring often, until the apples start to soften, about 4 minutes. Cover and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Uncover and stir in the cinnamon and salt and cover again. Continue simmering for 10-20 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender and beginning to fall apart. Turn off the heat and use a potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. If you’d like a smoother applesauce, pulse it in a food processor or blend it with an immersion blender.

One dessert that I’ve seen dozens of different ways is an apple cake. My Grammy herself made a few different kinds. Whenever she said she was making an apple cake, my usual response

was “which one?”, not that there was ever a bad version. Like many recipes, everyone has a twist on certain things and this version of apple cake is outstanding. This easy apple cake recipe is the perfect fall treat as it’s moist, lightly spiced, and jam-packed with tender apples. If you don’t have a 9-inch round baking pan, you can bake this cake in an 8-inch square pan or even in a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Prep time is 15 minutes, cooking time is 35 minutes, and it serves 8.

Apple Cake

¾ cup dark brown sugar

2 large eggs

1/3 cup neutral oil, like canola or grapeseed

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

½ tsp kosher salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

2 small apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into ¼ - ½ inch pieces, about 2 cups

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½ cup toasted walnuts, chopped

1 tbsp whiskey, optional ½ tsp instant espresso powder, optional

Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter or coat a 9-inch round baking pan with nonstick spray. Line the bottom of the pan with a round of parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk the brown sugar and eggs until pale and foamy, about 1 minute. Add the oil, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, whiskey and espresso powder, if using. Whisk until smooth and emulsified. Add the flour, baking powder, and baking soda and whisk until well combined and smooth. Use a rubber spatula to fold in the apples and ¼ cup of the nuts. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and use an offset spatula to gently smooth the top, making sure the apples are well dispersed and go all the way to the edges of the pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup nuts over the cake. Bake until puffed and golden, and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, 30-40 minutes. There may be a bit of moisture on the tester from the apples. Set the pan on a rack to cool for about 15 minutes. Run a thin knife around the edge and carefully turn the cake out onto a cooling rack. Then invert it again so that it’s puffy side up, if desired. Store the cake, wrapped tightly or in an airtight container, at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two days, al-

though I doubt that it’ll last that long. I’m all about a good old-fashioned apple fritter during the autumn season and this recipe is phenomenal. Granted it is not the healthiest way to enjoy fresh apples in a recipe, but I personally couldn’t care less when enjoying something scrumptious and yummy, and this one certainly checks all the proper boxes. The apple fritters in this recipe have a perfectly balanced flavor that is spiced, tart, and sweet, all at once. A cinnamon sugar dusting adds the ideal amount of sweetness to sharp, flavorful Granny Smith apples, which are chopped finely and slightly macerated in sugar before being added to the batter. These can be dangerously poppable, if that’s a word, as these apple fritters are easy to make and easy to fry for the ultimate crowd-pleasing fall dessert served alongside some hot apple cider, or drink of choice as ev-

eryone will be popping these into their mouths. You can have these made in less than 40 minutes and will serve 8 of you.

Apple Fritters

2 medium-size Granny Smith apples, about 1 lb, peeled and finely chopped, about 1 ¾ cups

½ cup, plus 2 tbsp, packed light brown sugar, divided

Canola or grapeseed oil

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp kosher salt

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

3 ½ tsp ground cinnamon, divided ¾ cup whole milk

¼ cup sour cream

2 tbsp butter, melted

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 large eggs, at room temp ½ cup granulated sugar

Castle in the Clouds Adventures Start With

Start by stirring together apples and 2 tbsp of brown sugar in a medium bowl. Set aside until ready to use. Pour oil into a large Dutch oven to a depth of 1 ½ inches and heat to 350 degrees. When oil is close to temperature, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, 1 ½ tsp of cinnamon, and remaining ½ cup brown sugar in a large bowl. Whisk together milk, sour cream, butter, vanilla and eggs in a separate medium bowl until combined.

Add milk mixture to flour mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in apple mixture. To fry the fritters, working in batches, scoop about 2 heaping tbsps of batter per fritter using a large spoon, then using the back of a smaller spoon, carefully slide batter into hot oil. For a funnel cake-like shape, gradually slide batter into oil slowly but carefully, allowing the remaining batter to drip over cooking fritter. Fry until golden brown, puffed, and cooked through, 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally using a slotted spoon and adjusting heat as needed to maintain temperature. Transfer to a wire rack placed over a rimmed baking sheet using a slotted spoon and let cool slightly. Repeat process with remaining batter. Whisk together granulated sugar and remaining 2 tsps cinnamon in a large bowl, add warm fritters and toss to coat. Serve warm and watch them disappear.

Lastly today, we end with the most decadent and upscale dessert of the day as we take the mentality of a classic carrot cake and combine that with apples and pecans to make an amazing cake. This carrot cake gets a fall makeover with our apple-pecan carrot cake recipe. If you’re a fan of traditional carrot cake, this autumn-inspired version balances the flavor of the classically rich cake with a hint of apple pie spice and the tartness of freshly grated Granny Smith apples. Oil and buttermilk ensure a tender, moist crumb and two toppings unite for a decadent and impressive finish. The layers of this cake are sandwiched with an apple cider caramel, and the stacked cake is topped off with a showstopping crown of mascarpone frosting. More caramel is swirled into the frosting, with a scattering of pecans for a final touch. It’s a layer cake that’s beautiful, unique, and nostalgic, all at the same time. A modern twist on a beloved dessert, this apple-pecan carrot cake will quickly be• ‘Cue The Grill

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Photo by Terry Noack

Photo by John Gisis

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come one of your favorite fall recipes. The classic carrot cake is frosted with a cream cheese frosting and is fine to go with as well. In fact, it is more forgiving than Mascarpone cheese, which is an Italian cream cheese, as it can be a pain to work with sometimes. The choice is yours. Just sub cream cheese for the Mascarpone if that is your preference. Prep time is in the 35–40-minute range and total time is about 3 ½ hours. Plan for 10 servings. This is the perfect dessert for any autumn special occasion.

Apple Pecan Carrot Cake

2 1/3 cups finely chopped lightly toasted pecans, divided

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking soda

2 tsp apple pie spice

½ tsp table salt

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups granulated sugar

¾ cup vegetable oil

¾ cup buttermilk

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups peeled and grated Granny

Smith apples

1 ½ cups grated carrots

2/3 cup plus 2 tbsp apple cider caramel sauce

For The Mascarpone Frosting 16 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled, and use the best quality you can find, or use cream cheese at room temp

2 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled

1 tsp almond extract

2 tbsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sprinkle 1 1/3 cups toasted pecans into 2 well-buttered 9-inch round cake pans. Shake to coat bottom and sides of pans. Stir together flour and the next 3 ingredients. Stir together eggs and next 4

ingredients in a large bowl until blended. Add flour mixture to the egg mixture, stirring just until blended. Fold in apples, carrots, and the remaining 1 cup pecans. Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks, and cool completely, about 1 hour. While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. If using mascarpone, place your mixing bowl in the freezer for 15-20 minutes prior to making it. If using cream cheese, there is no need to do so. Place the mascarpone in the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment and start beating on medium speed. While beating, add the almond extract and vanilla followed by the confectioners’ sugar. Scrape sides and continue beating until light and fluffy. Do not overmix as it will cause the frosting to curdle. With the mix-

er running on high speed, slowly add the whipping cream until the frosting becomes light and fluffy, about 1-3 minutes. Again, do not overmix. Place 1 cake layer, pecan side down, on a serving plate. Spread top of cake layer with 2/3 cup of the caramel sauce. Top with remaining cake layer, pecan side down. Spread the frosting over top and sides of cake. Drizzle 2 tbsp of the caramel sauce over frosting. Swirl sauce into frosting and serve immediately or refrigerate.

I hope most of you bust into some fun fall cooking in the near future and even better if you use some of these recipes. Until next time, keep your taste buds happy and smiling and if any of you care to touch base with any questions or feedback, please reach out to fenwaysox10@gmail.com

“We Care” Concert to Feature The Cat’s Pajamas

Temple B’nai Israel (TBI), a reform synagogue in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, today announced the next We Care concert will feature the flawless harmonies and dynamic performers of The Cat’s Pajamas. This one-of-a-kind vocal band has toured nationally and abroad and has brought their unique, high-energy brand of a

cappella music to hundreds of thousands.

More than just a concert, the charitable event will benefit the Circle Program based in Plymouth, NH which provides camp, mentorship and other enrichment programming to young girls living throughout the Lakes Region. This evening of entertainment

making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of young girls living in the Lakes Region.”

is taking place on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 7:30 pm at the Inter-Lakes Community Auditorium in Meredith, NH. Tickets are just $40 with no additional fees and plenty of free parking. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting Temple B’nai Israel’s website at www.tbinh.org or multiple retail locations (see TBI website for list). Tickets may also be purchased and donated to the Circle Program for use by the organization and its program participants and mentors.

“We Care has championed local causes since 2013 by lending a helping hand to Lakes Region nonprofits, and we are proud to support the mission of the Circle Program which is aimed at

Since 2005, The Cat’s Pajamas have performed on multiple television shows, including America’s Got Talent and The Sing-Off, along with entertaining on cruise ships, at colleges and in performing arts centers around the world. Members of the vocal band hail from across the United States and are proud to perform stunning renditions of classic hits that all will enjoy. This is the first time that The Cat’s Pajamas is performing in New Hampshire. For More Information, Media Only: Barbara Katz (phone) 443-254-6994, (email) barbaraktbinh@gmail.com

No End to Wonderful Fall Hiking Opportunities

By Thomas P. Caldwell

Autumn is a great time to do some hiking, with cooler temperatures and fewer insects to mar the experience. Early fall also provides beautifully colored foliage, adding to the attraction of the natural landscape, waterfalls, and vistas.

Central and Northern New Hampshire offer plenty of hiking opportunities for people of all abilities, and there are a number of day hikes that make it easy to get out in nature and take in all that wonderful scenery. From quickand-easy treks to more challenging trails, the choices are abundant.

A good place to start is the trail system at The Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough. Maintained by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, there is the easy Shannon Brook Trail, which passes several waterfalls on the 0.7-mile path — perfect for introducing young children to the joys of hiking.

For more of a challenge, the property also has moderately difficult trails to the 1,801-foot Bald Knob peak, Turtleback Mountain (2,192’), Mount Roberts (2,566’), Faraway Mountain (2,872’), Mount Shaw (2,989’) and Black Snout Mountain (2,664’).

Hiking in Wonalancet, between Sandwich and Tamworth, provides a quiet atmosphere with not as many other people on the trails. The Brook Path is an easy 2.1-mile flat trail that follows the Wonalancet River through a forest of hemlocks and northern hardwoods. The stream has many small cascades and pools, ending with a wooden dam.

Nearby is the Mount Mexico Trail, a 5.2-mile moderate loop that takes an average of three hours to complete. There are several stream crossings, and portions of the trail are not as wellmarked, so it’s easy to wander off but just as easy to find one’s way back onto the trail. During early fall, the leaf cover protects hikers from the heat, but when the temperatures abate and the leaves have fallen, there is the benefit of having better views. Good footwear is recommended.

Hiking boots are also recommended for the 2.9-mile Zealand Trail in the White Mountains. While the trail is rated moderate, with much of it running along the bed of an old logging railroad, there are sections where the hiker has to scramble over small boulders

and along dry, rocky stream beds where a twisted ankle could turn a pleasant trip into misfortune. The attraction of the Zealand Trail is its passage through areas with flat rocks alongside the Zealand River, where one can enjoy swimming and sunbathing; beaver ponds with views of the mountains beyond; and, at the top, an Appalachian Mountain Club hut that offers spectacular views of the White Mountains. It is possible to extend the Zealand Trail hike by continuing on the Ethan Pond Trail to Thoreau Falls, but that means a trip greater than 10 miles. An alternative is to extend the trip with an overnight stay at the AMC Zealand

The fall colors are starting to appear alongside the Zealand Trail in this view. (Tom Caldwell Photo)

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Newfound Nature Station Explores Autumn Seeds

Newfound Lake Region Association (NLRA) invites you to join them for a look at the Hebron Town Forest’s autumn seeds at Newfound Nature Station, a free program that connects youth and families to the natural world. As we reach the end of the growing season, many plants are already preparing for next year as they release this year’s seeds. Along the meadow and woodland trails of the Hebron Town Forest, participants can find seeds that come in a range of sizes, shapes, and dispersal strategies, highlighting the many ways that plants create the next generation. Nature Station is usually held at Grey

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Hut and make the Thoreau Falls hike on a second day. With reservations, the AMC will provide an evening meal for those staying at the hut.

Hitting the Shannon Brook trail in early September, the leaves had not yet started to turn colors, but a brisk breeze warned that it would not be long before

Rocks Conservation Area, which is currently closed to the public for construction. For October’s Nature Station, join NLRA on Tuesday, October 15th and Saturday, October 19th 10 am-12 pm in the Hebron Town Forest. This program is free and open to all.

Newfound Nature Station, along with other family programs and events, is part of NLRA’s yearround work to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty around them, learn more about the environment and how to protect it, and fall in love with the Newfound

Watershed. By connecting the people of Newfound to the wonders around them, NLRA works to inspire the next generation of stewards and fulfill the mission of protecting Newfound Lake and its watershed. Along with educational programs like Newfound Nature Station, NLRA works to protect water quality in Newfound Lake and the surrounding watersheds through stormwater management, land conservation, and the prevention of invasive aquatic plants. Learn more about NLRA, including other upcoming events, at NewfoundLake.org. 184 Groton Rd Hebron, NH.

foliage season would be here. Nonetheless, there was a steady stream of hikers — singles, couples, and families — making their way along the trail and stepping off the path to get a better look at the various falls, with names like Roaring Falls, Twin Falls, Whittier Falls, The Cascades, Emerald Pool Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Falls of Song.

The trail is wide and gently descends, making it easy to walk in either direction. There is only a steep climb for 0.2 miles by the lower bridge.

Most of the side paths to the waterfalls are equally easy, but reaching some of the falls requires a bit more dexterity, and getting back up would be a challenge for some.

easy to quickly recover from the more taxing portion of the trail.

BENJAMIN GREENE, CONDUCTOR

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SATURDAY NOVEMBER 2, 2024 - 7:00PM

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It was mid-September when we took the Zealand Trail and, being farther north, there were already some signs of the coming foliage season. Peak foliage could not be more than a few weeks behind.

After a gentle incline, the trail became steeper, with a tangle of roots and boulders that required a slower pace. It was an 84-degree day, perfect for relaxation but not as great for scrambling over obstacles. However, the cool river running alongside the trail providing plenty of places to rest and recover, perhaps have a snack and rehydrate for the trail ahead.

Soon, it was back into full woods where there were occasional bursts of color. Despite the hot day, there were many hikers ascending and descending the trail. When the path leveled out on the old train bed, with the leaves providing some welcoming shade, it was

Then the trail was skirting a large pond, partially dammed up by the beavers that were constantly making work for the trail crews, which have built wooden bridges over areas where the water has backed up. In the distance was a tree-lined hill with hints of color, and beyond that, a gray, flat-topped mountain. It was a place where it would not be unusual to see a moose cooling off in the water.

It took about 1.75 hours to reach the 2.3-mile mark where the A-Z Trail crossed, and a sign indicated that the AMC Zealand Hut was just 0.5 mile ahead. It was at that point that the trail began rising more steeply, and the final 0.1 mile was very steep, although supplied with stone steps to make it easier to navigate.

These are just some of the trails in the region that make for perfect fall hiking. The Appalachian Mountain Club and Lakes Region Conservation Trust have maps and guides to other equally good paths to follow, as well as directions to find them.

Happy trails!

An alluring destination showcasing farm-to-fork, with an old world inspired New England feel.

Hansel & Gretel Antiques Features “Seasonably

New Hampshire artist Lynda S. Vogel is currently featured in a one person show at the Hansel & Gretel Antiques shop in Melvin Village. “Seasonably Charmed” is Vogel’s eighth annual found object/mixed media jewelry exhibit and the public is invited to view her latest collection of work.

As leaves begin to turn and a chill returns to the air, a series of holiday events are celebrated annually October through December. In seasonal style, a special showing of handcrafted jewelry by the Wolfeboro artist celebrates all the symbols and colors related to this time of year. Her jewelry is represented at Hansel & Gretel Antiques on a regular basis, but this special showing provides an opportunity to see new creations from her jewelry line, Designs East. Located at 436 Gov. Wentworth Highway, Rte 109 in Melvin Village (Tuftonboro), Hansel & Gretel will have her work on display through October 14, 2024.

Vogel enjoys the arts, history and outdoor adventures as a full-time resident in the New Hampshire lakes region. Previous travels and a professional career as director of a non-profit cultural organization provided Vogel the opportunity to work with diverse ethnicities as well as the visual and performing arts. Drawing from these experiences, she uses them in many of her designs.

Vogel’s jewelry is hand-fabricated in small batches. Each piece is crafted as part of her Designs East jewelry collection, featuring a variety of materials, including charms. Vogel’s designs are determined by the objects, driven

by a lifelong fascination with beads and charms dating from her childhood. She creates her unique mixed media assemblage jewelry incorporating found objects, metals, gemstones, vintage treasures and finds. The assemblage process allows her to build three-dimensional layers for depth and movement. Many of her earrings and necklace pieces are one of a kind, while others are created in limited production. Jewelry by the artist is made to be enjoyed and worn by everyone in a wide price range.

The 2024 show includes jewelry representing Halloween, autumn, the Granite State, the American West and a “sneak peek” of Christmas. Beads and natural materials range from turquoise, jasper, lapis, pen shell heshi, freshwater pearls, amber, coral, wood and handcrafted glass. Vintage enameled items, gold vermeil, brass, copper or sterling silver are also incorporated in her work. Found objects in this year’s show range from around the globe and across the USA. A larger selection of her Christmas jewelry will be featured at Hansel & Gretel Antiques during the annual Tuftonboro Holiday festival slated for November 8, 9 and 10, 2024.

“Repurposing found objects and recycling them into wearable works of art is rewarding”, explains Vogel. “Simple or intricate designs each have an individual theme.” All found objects play a significant part in the total design of Vogel’s jewelry. Some necklaces have titles that are derived from one element even before she begins.

“A Day at the Pond” – Detail Found Objects and Vintage Charms

“One found object can set the tone for an entire piece”, notes Vogel adding “Finding them is fun, but naming a finished piece of jewelry based on one or multiple objects is even better.”

“Seasonably Charmed” will be on display through October 14, 2024 and is free and open to the public. Visitors are also invited to enjoy the shop’s wonderful array of antiques, collectibles, handcrafted live edge furniture and unique home décor for sale from over 50 vendors. Hansel & Gretel Antiques hours are 10 am to 5 pm Thursday through Saturday, and Sunday 10 am - 4 pm. In addition, the shop will be open Monday, Columbus Day, from 10 am to 3 pm. For more information, call 603-544-2040, visit Facebook at www. facebook.com/HGAntiques or email cottonvalleyantiques@gmail.com

Oct. 7, Your Apple Watch: Unleash Its Full Potential, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 7, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28, Graveyard History Walking Tour, 3 – 5 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Oct. 8, A Walk Back in Time: The Secrets of Cellar Holes, presented by Adair Mulligan, 7 p.m., Brookfield Town House, 267 Wentworth Rd., Brookfield, 603-5226713.

Oct. 8, Friends’ Crafts with Linda: Autumn Centerpieces, 10 a.m. – noon, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-registration: 603476- 8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.

Oct. 8, Live Music: Railroad in Song, 6 – 7:15 p.m., with songwriter/musician Jon Waterman, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603476-8895, pre-register: www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.

Oct. 8, Recover Your Dining Room Chairs, 6 - 9 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 9, Making the “Susan” Leather Bag with Molly Grant, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., sign up by Sept. 16, League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920.

Oct. 10, Covered Bridges of New Hampshire Near Ashland Past & Present, free, Ashland Historical Society, Ashland, info.: www.ashlandnhhistory.org

Oct. 10, Craig Jaster, jazz group, 7 p.m., The Loft at Hermit Woods, 72 Main Street, Meredith, tickets/info: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com

Oct. 10, Empty Bowls Dinner, 5:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh.com, 603-5362551.

Oct. 10, Haunted Hikes of New Hampshire, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775.

Oct. 10, Turkey Dinner, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Hotchkiss Common, 71 Main St., Union, togo containers available, Union Congregational Church, 80 Main St., Union, benefit Fellowship Mission, tickets at 4:30 p.m., no reservations 603-473-2727.

Oct. 11, Metalsmithing Soldering Workshop, 1 - 3 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 11-13, Fall Foliage Festival, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. daily, axe throwing, face painting, carnival games, magic show, live music, fireworks and much more, Town Square, Waterville Valley, www.waterville.com, 1-800-993-3149.

Oct. 11-13, Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative Presents: The Crucible, 7:30 p.m., Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.

Oct. 11-Nov. 3, The Wizard of Oz, Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com.

Oct. 12, Antique and Vintage Fair, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., on the grounds of Clark Museum, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org. (In case of rain, event will be cancelled.)

Oct. 12, Billy Bob Thornton & the Boxmasters, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh. com, 603-536-2551.

Oct. 12, Furniture Decorating with Special Techniques, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 12, History of Stone Walls, 10 a.m. – noon, Birch Ridge Community Forest, New Durham, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways, www.mmrgnh.org., 603-4732020.

Oct. 12, Holiday Bread Basket Weaving, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 12, Intro to MIG Welding, 3 - 6 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 12, Sterling Ring with a Tube-Set Faceted Stone, 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., sign up by Oct. 9, League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920.

Oct. 12, Turtleback Mountain Trail Hikers Club, 8 a.m. – noon, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Oct. 12, Vintage and Antique Car Show, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Canterbury Shaker Village, Canterbury, 603-783-9511, www.shakers.org

Oct. 12, Whose Bones are Those?, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775. (Program for ages 6-12 with caregivers.)

Oct. 12, Wooden Bowl Turning Basics, noon - 4 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 12 – 14, Sandwich Fair, 7 Wentworth Hill Rd., Sandwich, 603-284-7062, www. thesandwichfair.com

Oct. 13, Intro to Watercolors, 10 a.m. – 11:30 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Oct. 13, 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

Oct. 13, Rhett Miller, 5 p.m., Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323-6169, www.thefarmstand.net

Oct. 15, A Knitting Basket with Mary Jeanne Luckey, at the Gallery Art Barn, Artworks Gallery, Chocorua, 603-323-8041, www.chocoruaartworks.com.

Oct. 15, Getting to the Heart of the Matter with Christine Destrempes, 4 - 5 p.m., Museum of the White Mountains, 34 Highland St., Plymouth, 603-535-3210.

Oct. 15, Tech Workshop – Snapseed Editing Photos, 2 – 3:30 p.m., learn how to edit and enhance your photos with Snapseed, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895, pre-register: www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.

Oct. 15, Watercolor Workshop, noon – 2 p.m. & 3:15 – 5:15 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Oct. 15 & 19, Nature Station: Autumn Seeds, 10 a.m. – noon, Hebron Town Forest, 184 Groton Rd., Hebron, Newfound Lake Region Assoc., 603-744-8689.

Oct. 16, Film Showing: Within the Crystal Hills, 6 – 7 p.m., Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775.

Oct. 17, Beginner’s Guide to Cemetery Sleuthing, 6 – 7 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895, pre-register: www. moultonboroughlibrary.org.

Oct. 17, Guided Hike Oak Ridge, 10 a.m. – noon, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Oct. 17, Los Sugar Kings, Cuban, Rock, Reggae, 7 p.m., The Loft at Hermit Woods, 72 Main Street, Meredith, tickets/info: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.

ONGOING

ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts/CCAC, art, workshops and events, open yearround with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com

Bad Mom Night, every Thurs., Trenta, 30 Middleton Rd., Wolfeboro, 603-5151068, www.trentanh.com.

Barnstead Farmers Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., 1 Parade Circle, Barnstead, nhbarnsteadfarmersmarket1@gmail.com, www.barnsteadfarmersmarket. com.

Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, gallery and textile museum, events and programs, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.

Bristol Farmers Market, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturdays, Millstream Park, Rt. 3, Bristol, bristolopenairmarket@atlanticbb.net.

Canterbury Shaker Village, walking trails, tours, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, 603783-9511, www.shakers.org

Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, restaurant, music, walking trails, tours, events, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Country Village Quilt Guild, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., meets first and third Wednesday of each month, Public Safety Building (back entrance to Police and Fire Dept.), Rte. 25, Moultonborough, countryvillagequilters@gmail.com.

Cruise Night, 5 – 7 p.m., Thursdays, 50/50 raffle, prizes, Tilt’n Diner, 61 Laconia Rd., Tilton, 603-286-2204. (Thursdays until Oct. 26)

Dam Brewhouse, events, 1323 NH Rte. 175, Campton, 603-726-4500, www.dambrewhouse.com.

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

Family Craft Day, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., first Saturday of each month, free and fun for all ages, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.

First Friday Receptions, through Dec., 5 - 7 p.m., refreshments, conversation & art, ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www. chocoruaartworks.com

Friday Painters, 12:30 - 3 p.m., meet weekly, Mt. Washington Valley Arts Assoc., Gibson Center, 14 Grove St., N. Conway, ken@gibsoncenter.org.

Gilmanton Farmers Market, through Oct. 6, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sundays, local vegetables, flowers, plants, crafts, baked goods, live music and more, 1385 NH 140, on lawn of Gilmanton Year Round Library, Gilmanton Iron Works, 603-491-1687, www.gilmantonfarmersmarket.com

Guided Group Tour, history and machines of the historic Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, pre-register: jill@belknapmill.org, 603-524-8813, Monday-Friday.

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

Start Your Day Off Over

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:

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!

436 Gov. Wentworth Highway, Rte 109 Melvin Village, NH cottonvalleyantiques@gmail.com 603-544-2040 FACEBOOK: H&G Antiques Celebrating the Harvest This Fall CLASSIC, REFURBISHED & HANDCRAFTED LIVE EDGE FURNITURE ESTATE, TURQUOISE & VINTAGE JEWELRY VINTAGE NH MEMORABILIA, FIESTAWARE LAMPS, RUGS, BOOKS, TOOLS, CAST IRON STUDIO ART, AUTUMN DECOR, & MORE

Thursday - Saturday 10 - 5

Sunday 10 - 4

Open Columbus Day Monday Oct. 14 10 - 3

Hansel & Gretel Antiques

Group Shop with over 50 Vendors

Darn Donut in the Lakes Region!

Available at:

235 Union Ave., Laconia Lake Town Store - Alton Alton Village Store Alton Circle Store

Wolfeboro Corner Store

Three Sisters in Wolfeboro Meredith Mobil

235 Union Ave., Laconia • 603-707-1346 • Served daily till they’re gone. Closed Mondays & Tuesdays (Open at 4am for hardworking early risers!) So

Indoor Pickleball, 5 p.m., Sandwich Central School gym, Sandwich, every Tues., Wed. & Fri., parksandrec@sandwichnh.org

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

Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., meets second and fourth Wednesday of each month, First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro. A second group meets Mondays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Community Center, 22 Lehner 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

Loon Center, walking trails, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-476-5666, www.loon.org

Makers Mill, a variety of workshops, arts and crafts classes and more, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org

Making Strides, 8 – 9 a.m., drop-in walking for groups or singles, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www.ossipee.recdesk.com.

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

Model Yachting, 1 – 4 p.m., Tues. & Thurs., Back Bay Skippers at Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Bridge Falls Path, Wolfeboro, watch radio controlled model yachts, NH Boat Museum, schedule: www.nhbm.org.

M/S Mount Washington Cruises, narrated cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee, day & evening cruises, M/S Mount Washington, 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, 603366-BOAT, www.cruisenh.com

New England Racing Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., open Saturdays, 922 NH Rte. 106 N., Loudon, www.NEMSMUSEUM.com

NH Farm Museum, old-time farm events, tours, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 603-652-7840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org

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

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

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

Quimby Barn Transportation Museum, weekends., through Oct. 13, early transportation wagons, snow roller, fire truck, Concord Coach and more, Maple St., Sandwich, call for hours/info.: 603-284-6269.

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.

Rug Hookers, 10 a.m. – noon, meets Tuesdays, Tuftonboro Free Library, 221 Middle Rd., Rt. 109A, Tuftonboro, 603-569-4256.

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

Check your battery Check your radiator

Check your tires & pressures

Check wiper blades & headlights

Squam Lake Cruises, family/educational cruises to look for loons & wildlife, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, www.nhnature.org, 603-9687194.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, exhibits, nature trails, events, cruises, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org

Tamworth Farmer’s Market, 9 a.m. - noon, Saturdays, 30 Tamworth Road, Tamworth, www.tamworthfarmersmarket.org

Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, info: www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.

Tuftonboro Country Bluegrass and Gospel Jam, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., Tuesdays, donation requested, Old White Church, Rte. 109A, Center Tuftonboro, across from Tuftonboro General Store, 603-569-3861.

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

Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets Wednesdays 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.

Wright Museum of WWII, exhibits and lectures on life on the home front during WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org

Let’s Go Antiquing: Discover Hidden Treasures and Timeless Finds!

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Antiques stir our imagination and bring out a desire to have something from the past. It’s fun to imagine that an unknown person long ago used a tool, a piece of fine china, a bowl, a chair or another item. As we gaze at an old painting or print, we imagine it once hung in pride of place in a 100-plusyear-old home. Whatever the item, the popularity of ferreting out antiques remains as popular as ever.

The Lakes Region is a Mecca of shops, probably because the area has many old homes and antiques. Ways to find collectibles and antiques include attending auctions or visiting antique shops. In the autumn months, there is nothing more entertaining than spending a day roaming the countryside of the Lakes Region and stopping when you discover a shop. Whether large or modest, well-stocked antique shops are abundant.

One such shop that is chock-full of great items is Rockin’ Through the

Ages Antiques and Collectibles, located at 36 Endicott Street East in Laconia (in the former Dexter Shoe Outlet). It is a place you can spend hours browsing the many antiques at each booth no matter what your taste or collecting style.

The building has many vendors displaying their wares for sale. Items are in a wide range and visitors can spend a long time leisurely browsing the nooks and crannies of the shop.

Owned and operated by Mike and April Vertone, the shop is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and the good news is that it doesn’t close during the winter months but remains open year-round.

“We have 6,000 square feet of shop,” says Mike as he stands behind the counter, working on fixing a large section of old post office boxes, which was a recent acquisition. It is this dedication to his shop and his interest in all things antiques that makes Mike the perfect person to own and run the busy shop.

Winterize and De-Winterize

“We have the capacity for about 115 booths if necessary,” he explains. The shop is chock-full of old items and Mike says some antiques and collectibles remain popular no matter what the time of year or trends, while some things come and go as each generation gets bitten by the collecting bug. Sometimes glassware is hot; other times items like coffee mugs from the 1970s, for example, are highly collectible.

Mike has a deep interest in antiques and strives to offer a mix of items to shoppers of all ages. He points to an unusual item placed high on a beam above the booths. Smiling, he comments, “I just got that item. It’s a sort of futuristic George Jetson mobile! I don’t plan to sell it. I wanted it for its uniqueness, and I think our shop ven-

dors and customers will love it.”

Along with aisles chock-full of great antiques, Mike says he and his wife, April, love to have something for kids as well as adults. “We have a Santa Stop in December. It takes place on weekends and all children are invited. Kids can get their photo taken with Santa and enjoy snacks. Every child will leave with a toy as well.”

Mike points to a coin-operated Harley Davidson motorcycle in the center of the shop, also something he wants kids to enjoy. They can take a ride on the coin-operated bike, harkening back to the days when a child could put a few coins in a machine and get a ride on a fake horse or bike.

• Antiquing continued on page 18

Haley’s Point on Melvin Bay • Route 109, Melvin Village, NH 03850

• Antiquing continued from page 17

For information on Rockin’ Through the Ages Antiques and Collectibles, call 603-403-0784.

On the other side of the Lakes Region, the Wolfeboro Antiques and Artisan Barn is located at 458 Center Street in Wolfeboro. The multi-dealer antique shop is in a historic and rustic barn. The shop space is huge, and visitors can look forward to hours spent browsing the two floors loaded with a huge variety of antiques…and artwork.

Meeting customers at the entrance to the big barn, employee Maryellen knows the shop inside and out and she loves the barn. “It is about 5,000 square feet. The current owner is Kyle Copeland, and he has had the shop for about eight years,” she explains. “We have approximately 40 vendors.”

The barn was built in 1765 and is from the pre-Revolutionary War era,” says owner Kyle. “It was once one of the oldest dairy barns in the town of Wolfeboro.”

When asked what the shop features and what is popular, Maryellen says, ”Trends change over time, such as Depression glass might be popular at one time while something else is popular at another time.”

She adds that customers are buying decorative things presently and everyone loves lake-themed items. Camp owners also love anything featuring loons. Those who shop at the Wolfeboro Antiques and Artisan Barn also like small pieces of furniture and artwork.

The shop has vendors peppered

throughout the two floors of the barn, and many feature a variety of art in their booths. Whether year-round or second-home owners, customers like the variety of items and appreciate the large amount of artwork, as well as antiques.

Much of the artwork is framed and most of it is older, with other paintings and prints created in more recent years. Shoppers can find everything from landscapes to figure drawings and other artwork galore.

The shop is open seven days a week, from April to Columbus Day, so antique lovers still have plenty of time to stop by and shop even though summer has recently ended. Plan to spend hours in the barn shop because inventory changes often and you will need a lot of time to see it all.

To contact the Wolfeboro Antiques and Artisan Barn, call 603-409-0736.

There are many other shops with antiques and collectibles throughout the Lakes Region, such as Hansel and Gretel Antiques at 436 Governor Wentworth Highway in Melvin Village (603-544-2040) and the Laconia Antiques Center at 601 Main Street in downtown Laconia (603-524-9484).

Autumn is a great time of the year to meander around the Lakes Region to see the brilliant foliage and stop for lunch or dinner, as well as to spend hours at the antique shops to browse. Who knows, you might just come home with a treasure that takes you back to your childhood or the distant past?

By Lee Caldwell

photo courtesy of Kingston Carriage & Sleigh Museum

Located just off Route 125 in Kingston, New Hampshire, the Kingston Carriage and Sleigh Museum offers a glimpse into a bygone era when horsepower was supplied by horses (not cars) and carriages and sleighs were marvels of craftsmanship.

The owner, 85-year-old, soft-spoken Albert O’Brien, doesn’t remember a time when carriages and sleighs

weren’t an absolute passion.

“I was four-years-old when I got interested, and that has never changed. Even now, when I have run out of storage room, I am still thinking of ways to add to the collection,” Albert says. “I think about building another storage building, but then I think, no, I am 85-years-old. I do have one designed in my head, though.” His eyes twinkle.

The current exhibit houses 26 carriages and sleighs, a few of which are on loan from other owners. There is

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Kingston Carriage and Sleigh Museum

everything from a smallish wooden sleigh with hand-printed stencils to the large Brewster Omnibus, also called an “opera bus” for its popular use in transporting wealthy urbanites to formal evenings. A red Albany Cutter with its plush velvet upholstery was the preferred wintertime vehicle for wealthy 19th century families in the northeastern United States. The Portland Cutter was a lightweight sleigh built with speed in mind. A small traditional Meadowbrook Cart, made of wood, is designed to be pulled by a small horse or pony. A heavily built Break Carriage is designed for “breaking” (training) horses to harness. The Brewster Victoria, an elegant type of open light fourwheeled vehicle, is named after Queen Victoria of England. The Buckboard has no springs and was a rough ride for the passengers.

Each coach or sleigh is matched with a descriptive sign. In a bid to whimsey, some of the coaches are occupied by large stuffed animals (and in one case a skeleton) as coachmen.

Albert’s crown jewel is his latest acquisition, a massive Park Drag. Drag is a slang term for a gentleman’s private coach, driven with a four-horse team by the coach’s owner. These were coaches that served as grandstands, in which wealthy owners could see and be seen.

Owners such as the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers drove them to horse races, picnics, through New York’s Central Park, and to elite summer resorts. Albert is only the fourth owner of Brewster Park Drag #24523. Each coach made was numbered. The descriptive placard reads: “Brewster order #24523 was for a Park Drag, which is a private gentleman’s coach, somewhat lighter than a road coach, and of a more refined design. Harris Fahnestock was a member of the New York Coaching Club, elected in 1908, and he was expected to attend meets of the club, driving a four-in-hand of blood horses. He chose to turn out in a Drag and bought one from Brewster and Co. He paid $2800.00 for it, and it came back with re-trimmed roof seats and lazy backs in blue, accompanied by lead bars, tray, and ice boxes. It was monogrammed H.F. in blue. Evidently this Drag was built for a Mr. P.A. Andrews, but sold to Mr. Fahnestock instead. It was finished on September 15, 1903. A whole bevy of rules, governed the turnout, and more governed the execution of maneuvers. The Coaching Club made periodic trips using the

• Day Tripping continued on page 21

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club’s own coach, the “Pioneer.” Its longest trip was a four day ‘jaunt’ from New York City to Dr. William Stewart Webb’s Shelburne Farms in Shelburne VT. The participants supplied their own teams and took turns driving.”

Dave Fletcher, a former carriage show judge and Morgan horse breeder, shows off the amenities of the Park Drag, saying, “They had tailgate parties before tailgate parties were a thing.” He then flips down the mahogany tailgate and pulls out the fancy storage boxes. They are lined with metal and insulated to keep ice from melting and dripping during the storage of food. There are slots for crystal and china as well. Servants came along to serve the food and drink.

He continued, “The Park Drag seated 14. It weighed 2450 pounds before passengers, so it needed to be drawn by four horses. Sitting atop the Park Drag would be the coachman and the passengers. The servants would either sit above the tailgate section or inside the coach.”

Albert chimes in, “I spent $83,000 for the Park Drag from someone in Conway who is also a collector. It is so big, we had to take down part of the side of the building to get it inside.”

In addition to the Park Drag itself,

Albert has the original tool and spare parts kit (one of only two known kits in the world).

He states, “Collectors want carriages and sleighs in original condition with no restoration. I hate to see them dusty with the wood falling apart.” In an effort to minimize wood deterioration, they are maintained in a heated structure with both a humidifier and a dehumidifier.

Part-time mechanic Gale Wood is busy adjusting the carriage lights and various other accoutrements on the

Park Drag. He says the toughest part of his job is “finding parts”.

Pictures hang around the walls, with a photo of a younger Albert, resplendent in a white hat and tails as a coachman for a wedding held on the property. At intervals, harnesses and hames decorate the walls and the ceiling.

Albert reminisces that he once had 140 carriages and sleighs. Some were lost to a fire. He tries to keep his collection to mostly carriages that were made somewhat locally. He mentions the Marshall Carriage Company in

Kingston, the French Carriage Company in Boston, Brewster and Company in New York City, and J.T. Sharkey and Company in Taunton MA. Outside, coachman Larry (who runs his own carriage business in Loudon) offers carriage rides for a nominal fee. The carriage, made by J.T. Sharkey Co., once transported passengers from the train station in Bretton Woods to the Mount Washington Grand Hotel. Larry supplies the horses — two Belgian draft horses called Rex (age 20plus and soon to be retired) and Chief (a youngster who is in training). Larry enjoys coming to the Kingston Carriage and Sleigh Museum because he feels that Albert is doing important work in preserving the carriages and sleighs and educating the public. He calls this “God’s work” and goes on to say that the carriages are hand-made and special.

The Kingston Carriage and Sleigh Museum is located at 19 Marshall Road in Kingston, phone number 603-6425434 or 603-770-6395. The museum is free and open “every 4 months seasonally”. Sleigh rides are available when the weather cooperates. Open dates for 2024 are July 6 and November 2. They do not have a website, but they do have a Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/ groups/191877492851102) which offers additional information.