TheLaker_February_24

FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 1

Your Guide to What’s Happening in NH’s Lakes Region

FREE

February • Vol 41 • No 2

Snowshoe Hikes and Sweet Treats!

Inside This Issue... Find More Sweeties | Page 3

Snowshoe | Page 4

“Cue the Grill | Page 8

What’s Up | Pages 14-16

Page 2 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

Celebrating 70 Years of Real Estate in the Lakes Region 1954 - 2024

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55 TIMBER LANE WOLFEBORO, NH | $759,900 CANDY SHARP | 603-651-9952

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FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 3

Sweeties for Valentine’s Day…Or Any Day

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper Photos courtesy Sweeties Cupcakes Jackie Kempf’s enjoyment of baking led her to create an unusual and delicious business called Sweeties Cupcakes.

Located in Wolfeboro, where Jackie and her husband live, Sweeties Cupcakes has been in operation since the summer of 2023. The business, which offers delicious, homemade cupcakes with frosting in a charming little jar, has already become quite popular.

The cupcakes in individual jars are great for weddings, birthdays parties, bachelorette gatherings and other events. Sweeties Cupcakes provide a really unusual and fun addition to a party.

With Valentine’s Day soon here, Sweeties has some delicious, flavored cupcakes just right for gifting or as a great dessert after an intimate, romantic dinner.

“I usually do two full cupcakes in a jar but I recently had some fun with a new flavor that leans on nostalgia from childhood. My mother is Italian, and we always had Neapolitan ice cream. It gave everyone a little of their favorite flavor and with six kids in our family, it was hard to please everyone. With that in mind, I have introduced a Neapolitan cupcake that is chocolate, vanilla and strawberry,” Jackie explains. The special Valentine’s Day cupcakes has three cupcakes with different flavors vs. the normal two cupcakes.

Jackie has always loved to bake, often tweaking recipes to create something even better than the original. Her chocolate chip cookies are a favorite with friends and family and at Christ-

ss Mattrele Sa

mas, she makes gingerbread houses from scratch.

Comments Jackie, “My cupcakes are all homemade; I do not use any cake mixes and all the ingredients I use are fresh and do not have preservatives.

For example, a red velvet cake or cupcake often calls for red food coloring, but I do not use products with dye in them.

“Also, my frostings are buttercream and I use only butter and no shortening in the frostings.”

Sweeties Cupcakes has a new cupcake flavor – strawberry – for Valentine’s Day. “It has a slightly red color, but it is made with real strawberries and there is nothing fake in the ingredients.”

Living Rustic

When it comes to weddings, Jackie enjoys working with couples as they strive to order exactly the cupcake in a jar flavor(s) they want. “I like to personalize wedding orders to offer guests a variety,” Jackie explains.

Referring again to red velvet, which is one of her customers’ favorite flavors, Jackie says, “There is a natural reaction that occurs in some of the ingredients, particularly with buttermilk or baking soda and the cocoa which gives the cake a natural red tint. It will never be fire engine red, but it does create a nice red tint. The cupcakes I make have a nice velvety texture and color, hence the name red velvet.”

Cupcakes are a favorite with many people who would rather have a small-

er version of a whole cake or just plain love cupcakes. Jackie was aware of that fact, and it helped to build Sweeties Cupcakes.

“Sweeties Cupcakes are unique in a few ways. First, we are committed to using high-quality ingredients without preservatives, and I do not use dyes in my baking or frostings. We also offer the flexibility to customize Sweeties Cupcakes, whether it be for weddings, special birthdays or corporate events.”

Jackie’s career background is in retail merchandising, and her experience has helped her with Sweeties Cupcakes. She creates the charming labels on each jar, which explains what the flavor might be and also brings the cupcake in a jar to customers. These things require merchandise knowledge for image, packing and shipping. She says her husband does all the labeling and packaging, which is a huge help, especially for a large order.

Taste testing is an important part of her business, and Jackie laughs as she shares that her most loyal taste testers are some of her friends. “I am a member of a tennis club in Wolfeboro. They are my taste testers.”

Jackie’s friends know she is constantly creating new recipes, often for each season, as well as for holidays and special occasions such as Valentine’s Day and Christmas. They can look forward to a cupcake test run throughout the year as various holidays and seasons come around.

For example, she has a green Matcha cupcake for St. Patrick’s Day, and

• Sweeties continued on page 5

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Page 4 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

Snowshoeing Offers a Traditional Winter Adventure

By Thomas P. Caldwell When winter lays down a nice blanket of snow, skiers head to the mountains, snowmobilers hit the trails, and tubers slide down the hills. One of the most satisfying ways to get outside and enjoy the crisp air, however, is snowshoeing. It offers a chance to see animal tracks and perhaps a glimpse of four-legged creatures, it provides a great physical workout that nevertheless provides opportunities to stop and relax, and best of all, it is an affordable, fun way to explore snow-covered fields and wooded trails.

Those lucky enough to live away from population centers can just head out the door: Any open areas will do, and the snowshoes allow people to walk atop the snow without sinking, so they can find quiet spots where bare trees can offer spectacular views of the landscapes that are hidden during full foliage.

Venturing out into the wilderness can be dangerous, however, and only those who are fully prepared for what they might encounter should attempt such a trek.

A better option for those with little experience is to take part in one of the guided snowshoe tours offered by many of the ski resorts.

Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford offers a fun and relaxing guided walk through its nordic trails and along a brook. Its Wetlands Walk offers a restorative stroll on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the winter season, weather permitting. The trip departs from the Gunstock Nordic Center, with snowshoe rentals included in the price, although those who wish to use their own gear may do so.

Gunstock also offers Evening Snowshoe Ridge Tours, with headlamps and snowshoes provided. Participants board the Tiger Chair to ascend the mountain, then traverse the ridge on foot. Tours take place on Friday and

Saturday nights, weather permitting.

Great Glen Falls in Gorham offers 1.25-hour guided snowshoe tours through the winter woods where leaders point out animal prints along the way and talk about the flora and fauna of the White Mountains. Great Glen Falls boasts one of the largest snowshoe rental fleets around, accommodating even large groups, and carrying youth snowshoes for smaller hikers.

There is no need to make reservations for snowshoe rentals.

Jackson XC offers guided snowshoe tours on Saturdays and Sundays by reservation, making them essentially private treks for each party. The guides explain the geology and biology of the area, as well as talk about local history.

Guided Tours are essentially private; you and your party comprise the group.

Reservations are required.

For those who prefer to go out on their own, the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation maintains 40 kilometers of dedicated, self-guided, purpose-built snowshoe trails that are mapped and well-marked, with several “you are here” signs at the intersections.

The Loon Adventure Center in Lincoln offers a variety of snowshoe tours on a scenic network where trails meander alongside the Pemigewasset River with switchbacks high onto the shoulder of Black Mountain. The Riverbank Tour along the Pemigewasset River follows former logging roads that hug the shoulder of lower Black Mountain. The Loon Peak Tour starts with a gondola ride to the summit of Loon Peak to allow snowshoers to explore high alpine trails and enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding White Mountains.

The North Peak Tour is a challenging trek that begins at the gondola summit.

Participants will snowshoe from Loon Peak to the summit of North Peak, the resort’s highest point, which provides views that stretch from Mount Moosilauke in the west to Mount Washington to the east.

There also are self-guided tours where snowshoers pass under towering white pines and enjoy the quiet beauty of the White Mountain National Forest.

Of course, it’s not necessary to be part of a tour group. Snowshoeing is an easy, low-impact exercise that requires

no special skills, although old wooden snowshoes may require some time to learn how to walk. Modern snowshoes, which generally are made of aluminum or composite material, come with easily adjustable bindings, and some even allow one to pivot in place. The addition of cleats or crampons gives a firm grip when the going gets slippery, and poles can provide an extra level of control, helping to balance on uneven terrain.

Before heading out on any winter activity, it is important to be mindful of safety. Tell someone where you plan to go and when you will be back. It’s always a good idea to snowshoe with a partner. Snowshoers should wear waterproof and insulated clothing.

Dressing in layers allows the trekker to adjust to changes in temperature and wind conditions. Carry a trail map, and stay on the marked trails. Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks, as well as a flashlight.

It is safest to trek along established trails, such as Waterville Valley Resort’s 71 kilometers of nordic trails that also are open to snowshoeing. No rental reservations are required for snowshoes at the resort, which also has racing snowshoes available for those who want to try winter trail-running.

Bear Notch in Bartlett has more than 65 kilometers of trails, offering riverside views and passing pristine waterfalls, picturesque flat meadows, and challenging hills.

Omni Mount Washington Resort offers trails that provide everything from an easy stroll to a backcountry hike, with groomed nordic trails. There is an opportunity to make your own path through deep, untouched snow, take in Presidential Range vistas, explore trails that meander along the Ammonoosuc River, or trek over the

• Snowshoeing continued on page 6

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FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 5 • Sweeties continuedn from page 3 in the springtime, offers a special carrot cake as well as a coconut cupcake flavor. For brides, she offers custom orders with packaging, allowing the bride to choose from a variety of flavors. Patriotic cupcakes for 4th of July include lemon and blueberry among, others.

The most popular flavors remain standard chocolate cupcakes with frosting, a chocolate peanut butter cupcake and a chocolate raspberry cupcake.

A standard Sweeties jar has two cupcakes, and Jackie says, “I bake the cupcakes and when ready, I drop a cupcake in the jar, add buttercream frosting, put in the second cupcake and pipe in more frosting for the top. I then add such things as a solid chocolate heart on top of each cupcake for Valentine’s Day. The cupcakes go into a Mason jar with a lid and freeze well for later use should the customer buy them ahead of time.”

When Sweeties Cupcakes is in great demand, such as for a holiday or special event like a wedding, Jackie is busy in her Wolfeboro kitchen (she has a homestead baker’s license). “People buy cupcakes to send to friends and family far away and sometimes they want to send gift packs. Sweeties are good for anyone looking to send a

unique and delicious gift,” adds Jackie.

If a customer is having a local event or dinner party and they want a quality dessert or treat, they can turn to Jackie.

“People can order online at my website - www.sweetiescupcakes.com; discounted gift packs are available,” Jackie says. As a special offer, Jackie will extend a 15% discount to Laker readers with the coupon code LAKES15, which she will keep active until the summer.

When asked what her future plans might be for Sweeties Cupcakes, Jackie is quick to remark, “I hope to continue growing the business. This year – 2024 – will determine where the business is going to go. It is a learning curve for me to go through the seasons for an entire year; I am encouraged thus far.

I started in 2023 and I know my cupcakes make people happy.” Her biggest order so far has been 500 cupcakes in jars for the annual Pumpkin Festival in Laconia. “It was the most baking I have done at any one time,” she recalls.

Poised to remain busy this year and into the future, the sweet success of Sweeties Cupcakes is just beginning.

Visit www.sweetiescupcakes.com for a list of cupcake flavors and photos or call 603-569-1505. To see more, go to www.instagram.com/sweeties_inajar/

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Page 6 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024 • Snowshoeing continued from page 4 high-country snowshoe trails along the ridgeline of the Bretton Woods Mountain Resort. Full-day snowshoe rentals are offered.

Eastman in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Area offers 36 kilometers of groomed trails in two scenic areas of varying terrain.

The Franconia Inn has an extensive network of snowshoe trails, with rental equipment available in the Cross Country Ski Shop.

Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring and Snowshoe Center has trails that wend through riverside hayfields and mountainside spruce and hemlock forests. There is a diverse range of terrain for all abilities, from easy rolling

hills to challenging intermediate and backcountry trails. More than half of the network is rated easy, making it perfect for families. Trails connect Intervale, Kearsarge, and North Conway Village, offering outstanding scenery with views of the Saco River and Mount Washington.

Purity Springs Resort and Snowshoe Preserve in Conway has 20 kilometers of cross-country and snowshoe trails that wend around Purity Lake and through New Hampshire Audubon’s Hoyt Wildlife Sanctuary, offering scenic lake views and quiet, unblemished forest.

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The Green Trail (easiest) runs about a mile, with a 200-foot vertical climb, from the lift shack at the base of Bluster with green snowshoe markers under the two Valley chair lifts, then up the far side of the ski trail to the pond.

The trailhead is at the far end of the pond. The Blue Trail (intermediate) runs about 3.5 miles, with a vertical climb of 500 feet, from the stairs leading up to the balcony to the base of the Hurricane chair lift, with blue markers along the far side of the ski trail.

The Black Trail is for expert snowshoers with expert equipment only. The 1.25-mile trail runs between the Green Trail, about halfway through the loop, to the top of the Cascade Basin chair, where it meets the Blue Trail, with a vertical climb of 700 feet. Pats Peak does not patrol or maintain the snowshoeing trails, but it offers a snowshoe trail report at https://www.patspeak. com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/PatsPeakSnowshoeTrailReport.pdf.

Other Hikes Snowshoers also may be interested in hikes along ungroomed trails. Be aware that treks in the White Mountains make it especially important to carry map, compass, headlamp, extra layers, proper traction, and the other items known as the 10 essentials to be carried in a backpack: GPS system; sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat; jacket, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear; first aid kit; matches, lighter, and fire starters; duct tape, knife, screwdriver, and scissors; food; water and water treatment supplies; tent, space blanket, tarp, and bivy. You won’t want to die from hypothermia because you were not prepared for unexpected weather or other challenges.

Beginning snowshoers may want to start on the three-mile North End Loop, a trail in Waterville Valley that is mostly flat and goes around a frozen pond. Several of New Hampshire’s 4,000-plus-foot peaks are visible in the distance. The trail also has a skate line for speedy skate skiers.

Another easy hike is the Greeley Ponds Trail which runs through Mad River Notch near Lincoln, offering views of Mount Osceola and Mount Kancamagus.

There also is the Lincoln Woods Trail, off Route 112 (the Kancamagus Highway). The easy trail is a graded course that once served a logging railroad running along the east branch of the Pemigewasset River. The trail is

shared with cross-country skiers, but it leads to icy ponds and frozen waterfalls that are breathtaking to see. The nearby Pemigewasset Wilderness was one of the great forests that attracted the logging companies that established the town of Lincoln. There are numerous lookout spots along the trail, and a long suspension bridge crosses the river. The Lincoln Woods Trail is a 5.8mile round-trip, but it can be hiked in segments, allowing snowshoers to set their own distance. Those wishing to continue into the Pemigewasset Wilderness will bring total mileage to 11, but still with a minimal gain in elevation.

Another relatively easy trail is the Old Bridle Path off Route 113 in Holderness, leading up West Rattlesnake Mountain for wonderful views of the Squam Lakes, Lake Winnipesaukee, and the peaks of the Squam and Belknap ranges.

What starts as a leisurely stroll gets a little harder at the end when taking the Georgiana and Harvard Falls Trail out of Lincoln. The 1.6-mile round-trip hike begins at the trailhead on Georgiana Falls Road.

Farther north, in Franconia Notch State Park, a popular snowshoe destination is Lonesome Lake. Located between North and South Kinsman mountains, the trail offers magnificent scenery, but it is not groomed and is more difficult. The Appalachian Mountain Club operates a hut at Lonesome Lake, so day-trippers can stop in to warm up, or arrange to stay there overnight. To reach it is about a three-mile trek along the Lonesome Lake, Cascade Brook, and Fishin’ Jimmy trails.

Another trail in the Franconia Range connects Mount Liberty and Mount Flume, with the advantage of stunning views and minimal crowds. Leave the Basin parking lot, off Interstate-93 North, and begin along the bike path until reaching the Liberty Springs Trail, which is part of the Appalachian Trail.

The Liberty Springs Trail is a very steep and difficult trail that would require snowshoers to bring microspikes.

The trail climbs gently for three miles to a junction with the Franconia Ridge Trail. A short way south is the rocky summit of Mount Liberty. Experienced intermediate and advanced snowshoers will want to continue to Mount Flume

• Snowshoeing continued on page 22

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Page 8 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

‘Cue

The

Grill

Super Dips and Fondues

By Kelly Ross Now that winter is officially into full swing with plenty of white out there and big snowbanks, I know many who are hunkering down and staying warm, laying low, and going outside as little as possible. Other than those who enjoy winter sports obviously.

Of the five recipes I’m sharing, 3 are

hot dips and 2 are cold and they are all delicious. There obviously maybe a couple you may not like depending on what foods rub you the wrong way, but if you like most anything like I do, you should be all over these, not to mention your crowd if you are hosting the festivities. Let’s do it!

I want to start off by sharing the cold

ty for any get-together. You can make this in 20 minutes, although it should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours and best if made the day before serving it.

Cranberry Jalapeno Bacon Dip 16 oz cream cheese, room temp 1 cup sour cream 4 oz finely shredded asiago cheese ¼ cup cranberry juice 2 tsp onion powder 8-10 slices cooked bacon, chopped or crumbled

dips and work up to the hot versions.

This first one has a great combo of sweet, spicy, smoky, and salty, which is always a winner in the culinary world.

The sweet comes from cranberries, the spicy from jalapenos and the smokey/ salty from the awesomeness of bacon.

Truly they make an incredible flavor combo in the cream cheese dip with a few other goodies thrown in for good measure. When it comes to dips, as well as many appetizers, it’s tougher to say how many people it will feed compared to a dinner recipe, but all in all, as a dip for grazing, there will be plen-

• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 10

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Page 10 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024 • ‘Cue the Grill continued from page 8 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped 8 oz canned sliced jalapenos, drained then minced 4-5 small green onions, chopped For dipping, I usually go with crackers, pretzels, baked bagel slices, toasted garlic bread and/or crostini Add cream cheese to the bowl of an electric mixer or to a large mixing bowl if using a handheld mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes, then add sour cream and beat until incorporated, another 1-2 minutes. Add shredded cheese, cranberry juice and onion powder then mix until combined.

Add cooked bacon, dried cranberries, minced jalapenos, and green onions

then switch to a spatula and stir to combine. Scoop dip into a serving bowl then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, or up to 2 days ahead of time. Let the bowl sit on the counter to soften for at least 30 minutes before serving.

The next one has a seafood theme.

Many of my favorite dips have an ocean theme to them, especially crab and clam dips, but this one is also right up there with the rest. Smoked salmon takes the lead role in this one and is also a winner. One thing that has always cracked me up is when at potlucks, it’s almost a competition as to who brought the most popular dish.

A very good friend of mine made this for a get-together a few years ago and it was a winner, so of course, I got the recipe from him, especially since I

have shared dozens with him and his wife. When shopping for your salmon, I suggest buying hot smoked salmon as it is more plump and not as dry as the thinner cold option. You can always make your own if you have a smoker, which has become much more popular over the years in many homes. I enjoy cold smoked salmon on many things, such as lox-style appetizers and salads, but it doesn’t hold up as well in this recipe, not that it still won’t work and be good. This is a very scrumptious dip with an unforgettable smoky flavor. You can have this done in 1015 minutes and can be served immediately after, or you can refrigerate up to 2-3 days before serving. I usually serve this with thin slices of fresh veggies, crackers, and toasted rounds of bread to dip with or to spread over them.

Smoked Salmon Dip 2 cups plain, full-fat Greek yogurt 12 oz cream cheese at room temp 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice 4 tsp spicy brown mustard 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper plus additional for serving 4-8 dashes hot sauce depending on your taste, optional 1 lb hot-smoked salmon flaked into small pieces 4 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill, plus additional for serving Crackers, pita chips, quality crusty bread, and/or thinly sliced veggies for serving In a mixing bowl, beat together the

• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 12

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Page 12 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024 • ‘Cue the Grill continued from page 10 Greek yogurt and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Beat in the lemon juice, mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and hot sauce. With a spoon, fold in the salmon and dill with a rubber spatula. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Depending upon the saltiness of your fish, you may need to add some kosher salt but do not add salt early as you could hurt the dip. Scoop into a serving bowl. Serve sprinkled with additional dill and black pepper to taste. If you decide to make it in advance, like the last one, let it sit out at room temp for 30-45 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Let’s move on to some warm/hot dips. I have a great twist on a popular dinner entrée, as well as my favorite cheese fondue, but first off, let’s go the Tex Mex route. The list of ingredients is fairly basic with poblano peppers as the key ingredient. If you are not familiar with them, they are definitely milder than jalapenos, but they give

just enough of a kick for you to know that they are there, plus they have a great flavor that will be popular for almost anyone. It has a queso feel to it and only takes 20-25 minutes to prep.

You can prep it in advance and pop it into the fridge as much as a few days in advance, and then it takes a similar amount of time to bake. This is a blast to enjoy as it is cheesy, warm and bubbly and is a perfect dip to be served with sturdy tortilla chips. This is a meatless dip, although I have made it a few times by adding either taco burger

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or taco seasoned diced cooked chicken meat. Regardless of whether with or without the meat, you will enjoy this.

Poblano Pepper Tex-Mex Dip 5 medium poblano chiles, about 1 lb 1 lb cream cheese, room temp 4 scallions, chopped, about ½ cup ¼ cup sour cream 1 tsp ground cumin ¼ tsp chili powder ¾ tsp kosher salt 1 large garlic clove, grated, about 1 tsp 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded and divided Tortilla chips Preheat oven to broil with oven rack about 7 inches from heat source. Coat a medium 10-inch cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet with cooking spray and set aside. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Arrange the chiles on the baking sheet. Broil, turning occasionally, until blackened all over, about 10 minutes.

Remove baking sheet from oven and reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees. Wrap foil tightly around chiles and let stand for 10 minutes. Unwrap chiles and rub off skins and cut off the

stems and slice chiles in half lengthwise, then scrape out seeds. Cut halves lengthwise into thin strips, then cut strips into 1-inch pieces. Stir together cream cheese, scallions, sour cream, cumin, salt, and grated garlic in a bowl.

Stir in chiles and 1 ½ cups of the Monterey Jack. Spread dip into prepared skillet. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Monterey Jack over the dip and bake, uncovered until bubbly, about 25 minutes. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Next in line is a very cool dip version of a yummy dinner that most of us love, that being chicken alfredo. This includes 2 cups of cooked and diced or shredded chicken meat and is a creamy and cheesy dip which is perfect with warm toasted crusty bread for dipping, as well as some of your favorite veggies. Prep and cook time combined is maybe 40 minutes, 25 minutes of which is cooking time. This might be worth doubling up on if your crowd is large.

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Dip 3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp flour ½ tsp salt 1 tsp dried parsley ½ tsp minced fresh garlic 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup milk ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided. Do not use grated parmesan 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided 8 oz cream cheese 2 cups cooked, chopped, or shredded chicken breast meat, about 1 large breast In a medium skillet, melt butter,

• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 13

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FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 13 • ‘Cue the Grill continued from page 12 then stir in flour until smooth. Add salt, parsley, and garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add broth and milk and whisk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, whisking often, until thickened and smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese and ½ cup mozzarella. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sauce slowly and beat until smooth again.

Fold in chicken with a rubber spatula.

Spread into a medium baking dish, 1-1 ½ quarts, and sprinkle with remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Bake at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and beginning to brown, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days until ready to bake. Serve with veggies, crackers, and a warm crusty quality bread.

Lastly, I end the day with my biggest weakness of the bunch. I consider myself a fondue connoisseur of sorts, especially of the cheese variety. I make a few different versions, and this is a top 2 in the opinion of my taste buds,

not to mention to the scores of friends and customers I have shared this with.

Smoked gouda is one of my all-time favorite cheeses, so as a result, this is what is used in this recipe, as well as a couple of others. The smokiness and flavor of smoked gouda is as good as it gets in my humble opinion. You can have this made in a half hour and it is so easy to make. Although a good quality crust bread is again my favorite dipper for this one, there are many darn good options I have listed. I strongly suggest you give this one a shot. You won’t regret it. I run out of this on every occasion I serve it, no matter how much I make.

Smoked Gouda Cheese Fondue For The Fondue ¼ lb firm alpine-style cheese such as gruyere ¼ lb fontina ½ lb smoked gouda 2 tbsp cornstarch 1 cup dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc 1 clove garlic minced

1 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice 1 tbsp brandy 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1/8 tsp nutmeg A dash or 2 of hot sauce and/or cayenne pepper Assorted Fondue Dippers Boiled baby new potatoes in their skins, quartered if large Lightly steamed broccoli and/or cauliflower florets Lightly steamed asparagus Button mushrooms wiped clean and stems removed Cherry tomatoes Sliced firm apples such as Granny Smith Cooked sliced hot sausage or cubed ham Cubed French, sourdough, and/or pumpernickel bread Grate all the cheeses. In a medium bowl, combine the cheeses with the cornstarch, tossing thoroughly to coat all pieces. In a stove-top safe fondue pot or large heavy saucepan, bring the wine, garlic, and lemon juice to a

simmer over medium-low heat. Add the cheese to the simmering liquid a little at a time, stirring well between each addition to ensure a smooth fondue. Once smooth, stir in the brandy, mustard, nutmeg, and hot sauce and/ or cayenne pepper depending on your taste for heat. Arrange an assortment of bite-size dipping foods on a platter.

If necessary, carefully pour the fondue into a fondue pot over a sterno flame to keep warm and serve with fondue forks or wooden skewers. Dip and enjoy!

I hope you all get your dips and fondues on after this bunch of fun, whether at a Super Bowl party, a potluck, or virtually and get together with a bunch of friends or family. If you are hitting a Super Bowl party, have fun and I hope some of you are successful in the many pools that so many of us participate in. Until next time, keep those taste buds of yours happy and if any of you care to touch base with any questions or feedback, please reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com.

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Feb. 6, Fiber Arts Monthly Mingle, 7 – 9 p.m., first Tues. of each month, Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org.

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Feb. 6, Myc-Ology: Local Mushroom ID, 6 p.m., program with Eric Milligan of NH Mushroom Co., Walter’s Basin, Holderness, with dinner/program, Squam Lakes Assoc., 603-968-7336, pre-registration Feb. 7, Meet the Memory Cart, Learn to Digitize Photos, Movies and More, 11 a.m. – noon, Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-5244775.

Feb. 7, Publish Meeting held by Wolfeboro Singletrack Alliance, 6:30 p.m., help plan the future of mountain bike and multi-use trails in Wolfeboro, meeting at Wolfeboro Public Library, 259 S. Main St., Wolfeboro, help plan the future of mountain bike and multi-use trails in Wolfeboro, www.wolfeborosingletrack. org.

Feb. 7, Visible Mending, 6 - 8 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603569-1500, www.makersmill.org.

Feb. 7-March 27, Winter Yoga, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Castle in the Clouds, Rt. 171, 455 Old Mountain Rd., Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Feb. 8, Family Craft: Scratch Art Valentines, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., for ages 5-11, Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775.

Feb. 8, W4RP (formerly WARP), 7 p.m., jazz concert, Hermit Woods Winery, 72 Main St., Meredith, tickets: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.

Feb. 9, Empty Bowls Fundraising Dinner, 5 – 7 p.m., fighting food insecurity in local community, held at Kingswood Regional High School Cafeteria, 396 S. Main St., Wolfeboro, fundraising dinner for Knights Against Hunger, $15 - $40 for handmade ceramic bowls with unlimited soup and bread; $10 for bowl of soup with bread, info: jmurraydocarmo@govwentworth.k12.nh.us.

Feb. 9-11, In Love with Broadway, Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.

Feb. 10, Cricut Clinic Series; Beginner Level, 1 - 4 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org. (3-week class)

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Feb. 10, Needle Felting Winter Landscapes, 1 – 3 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm. org. Pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

Feb. 10, Daddy and Daughter Dance, 5 – 7 p.m., Meredith Community Center, preregister by Feb. 2, dinner, photos, crafts, dancing with DJ Jason, 603279-8197.

Feb. 10, Mastering the Art of Professional Beaded Necklace Design, 10 a.m.

- 1 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill. org.

Feb. 10, Sourdough Bread, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org.

Pre-registration, 603-366-5695.

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Feb. 10, Snowshoe Yoga, 10 a.m. – noon, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Pre-registration 603-366-5695.

Feb. 10 & 11, 45th Annual Rotary Fishing Derby, Meredith Bay, Meredith, fishing, prizes, www.icefishingnh.com.

Feb. 11, Archduke Trio, 3 p.m., chamber music concert, First Congregational Church, Wolfeboro, presented by Wolfeboro Friends of Music, tickets: www. wfriendsofmusic.org, 603-569-2151.

Feb. 11, Sewing 101, 1 – 4:30 p.m., Makers Mill, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603569-1500, www.makersmill.org.

Feb. 12, Beginner’s Mind for Writing: How to Start Anything Through Mindful Writing, 6 p.m., with presenter Alexandria Peary, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St., East, Laconia, sponsored by NH Humanities, register: www.nhhumanities.org, 603-524-8813.

Feb. 13, Chocolate Fare, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., for $5 enjoy wide assortment of chocolate treats, raffle basket, Moultonborough Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.

Feb. 13 & 17, Nature Station, 2/13: 1-3 p.m. & 2/17: 10 a.m.-noon; Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 N. Shore Rd., Hebron, by Newfound Lake Region Assoc., free, for all ages, 603-744-8689.

Feb. 15, Aromas & Bouquets, The Poetry of Wine, 5:30 p.m., wine tasting/ class, Hermit Woods Winery, 72 Main St., Meredith, tickets: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.

FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 15

What’s UP

your guide to what’s happening in NH’s Lakes Region...

Best Darn Donut in the Lakes Region!

Available at:

Feb. 15, Harnessing History: On the Trail of NH’s State Dog, the Chincook, with speaker Bob Cottrell, hosted by Taylor Community, Wolfeboro, The Sugar House, Maple Room, 83 Rolling Wood Drive, Wolfeboro, 603-294-1770, sponsored by NH Humanities.

235 Union Ave., Laconia Lake Town Store - Alton Alton Village Store Alton Circle Store Wolfeboro Corner Store Three Sisters in Wolfeboro Meredith Mobil Belmont Village Store

Feb. 16-18, World Championship Sled Dog Derby, start/finish line: Opechee State Forest, corner of Old N. Main St. and Rt. 106, Laconia, great spectator event, Laconia, info/updates: www.lrsdc.org., 603-524-4314.

Feb. 17, A Night of Dancing, 7 - 10 p.m., age 21 & up, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.

Feb. 17, An Evening with Cowboy Junkies, 8 p.m., Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.

Feb. 17, Family Sledding Day, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., program is tentative, call for updates, Castle in the Clouds, Rt. 171, 455 Old Mountain Rd., Moultonborough, pr-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

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Feb. 17, Friends Book Sale, 9 a.m. – noon, Madison Public Library, 1895 Village Rd., Madison, 603-367-8545, www.madisonlibrary-nh.org.

Feb. 17, Paper Quilled Flowers, 1 – 3 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

Feb. 17 Snowshoe Yoga, 1 – 3 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Pre-registration is 603-366-5695.

Feb. 17, Wild Winter Walk, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, pre-registration: 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org.

Feb. 18, Alton Bay Winter Carnival, 10 a.m., activities around the Bay area, www.altonbusinessassociation.com.

Feb. 18, Intro to Ice Fishing, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, pre-registration: 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org.

Feb. 20-22, 27 & 29, March 2, 9, & 23, Tap into Maple, 10 a.m. – noon, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. For all ages, pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

Feb. 21, Nature in Winter Storytime at Minot-Sleeper Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Grey Rocks Conservation Area, program at the Library, 35 Pleasant St., by Newfound Lake Region Assoc., free, for all ages, 604-744-8689.

Feb. 22, Young and Strange – Delusionists, 7 p.m., Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.

Feb. 24, Snowshoe Yoga, 10 a.m. – noon, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

Feb. 24, Trail Games & Tracking, 1 – 3 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org.

Pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

Feb. 24, Wild Winter Walk, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, pre-registration: 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org.

Feb. 24-March 2, Wolfeboro Winter Carnival, wintertime events around Wolfeboro being scheduled, info: 603-569-5639, www.wolfeboronh.us.

Feb. 27, An Evening of Poetry & Music, 6 – 8 p.m., Moultonborough Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895.

Feb. 27, The State of the Lake, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Grey Rocks Conservation Area, program at Minot Sleeper Library, 35 Pleasant St., Bristol, by Newfound Lake Region Assoc., free, for all ages, 604-744-8689.

Feb. 28, Solar Eclipse Presentation with Horst Gigerenzer, 2 – 3 p.m., Moultonborough Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895.

Feb. 28, Songwriter RoundUp, with Katie Dobbins and special guests, 7 p.m., Hermit Woods Winery, 72 Main St., Meredith, tickets: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.

March 3, Lakeside Bridal Show, noon – 3 p.m., Margate Resort, Lake St., Laconia, presented by Lakes Region Bride, gowns, cake samples, makeup, table designs, DJs, photography, flowers and more, plus $1,000 grand prize certificate, www.lakesregionbride.com, 603-455-8880.

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March 7, Plymouth Square Dance, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Barn on the Pemi, 341 Daniel Webster Highway, Plymouth, howe.gen@gmail.com, 603-481-0789.

March 9, 2nd Annual Chili on the Hill, 3 – 9 p.m., The Inn on Main, 200 N. Main ST., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1335, www.innnewhampshire.com.

March 15, Trade, 7 p.m., soul & funk music, Hermit Woods Winery, 72 Main St., Meredith, tickets: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.

Call today for a personal visit and tour:

Page 16 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

FREE FAMILY FUN! Exhibits • Videos Hiking Trails

What’s UP

your guide to what’s happening in NH’s Lakes Region...

ONGOING

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

Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.

Save 10% in the gift shop with this ad. Excludes sale items and consignments.

Open Thurs-Sat 9am-5pm Hiking Trails: Everyday, Dawn to Dusk

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, nature trails open for hiking, 740 Mt. Israel Rd., Center Sandwich, 603-284-6428, www.chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com.

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

183 Lee’s Mill Road, Moultonborough, NH • 603-476-LOON (5666) • loon.org

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

Freedom Gallery, artwork/exhibits by area artists, 8 Elm St., Freedom, call ahead for hours: 610-762-2493.

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

Beautiful VALENTINES gifts for your sweetheart The Gallery is looking for another team member Give us a call!

SHOP in the Gallery or ONLINE 279 DW Hwy. • Meredith • 603-279-7920 • Meredith.NHCrafts.org • Mon - Sat: 10-5 • Sun: 12-5 Like us on Facebook so you can see other beautiful things made by NH’s finest artists ~www.facebook.com/nhcraft

Winter Maintenance

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

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

Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, meets second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., 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 Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org.

Lakes Region Curling Association, fall & winter leagues, matches at Pop Whalen Ice & Arts Center, Wolfeboro, Sundays 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., 84 S. Main St., 603-569-5639.

Laverack Nature Trail at Hawkins Brook, nature trail on boardwalk, free, trail starts to the left of Meredith Village Savings Bank, Rte. 25, Meredith, 603-2799015.

Loon Center, walking trails, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-4765666, www.loon.org.

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

New England Racing Museum, open Saturdays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., 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, Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.

- 1:30 p.m., 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 pre-registration is necessary: 603-366-5695.

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

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

Sculpture Walk, tours of outdoor sculptures around downtown/lakeside areas of Meredith, free, Greater Meredith Program, maps: 603-279-9015.

Tires • Battery Checks Radiators & Coolant Wiper Blades • Headlights

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Advanced Auto Inc 486 Center St, Wolfeboro (603) 569-7763

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

Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, contact for open hours: www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.

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

Ukulele Club, second & fourth Tuesdays of each month, 6 p.m., 2718 Wakefield Rd., Wakefield Corner, 603-522-3189.

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.

FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 17

Castle in the Clouds Invites Residents to Join Community Advisory Group Castle in the Clouds is excited to announce the formation of a Community Advisory Group and is inviting local residents to participate.

The Community Advisory Group will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Castle in the Clouds by meeting quarterly throughout the year.

These gatherings will serve as a platform for open discussions on how Castle in the Clouds can better align with the needs and desires of the local community. Members of the Community Advisory Group will actively contribute to the review, brainstorming, and development of public programming, emphasizing the commitment of Castle in the Clouds to community engagement and diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion (DEAI).

Castle in the Clouds extends a warm invitation to community members to apply to join the Community Advisory Group, regardless of their familiarity with Castle in the Clouds. As a token

of appreciation, members of the Community Advisory Group will receive a complimentary Castle in the Clouds individual membership, along with free admissions passes and program passes as exclusive perks.

“As we embark on this exciting journey with the Community Advisory Group, we believe that the collective wisdom of our local residents will serve as the cornerstone for the evolution of Castle in the Clouds,” said Charles Clark, Executive Director of Castle in the Clouds. “Their diverse perspectives will guide us in creating a Castle experience that resonates with everyone.”

Applications for the Community Advisory Group are open on a rolling basis, with priority given to submissions received before February 16, 2024.

Interested individuals can apply by visiting castleintheclouds.org/community-advisory-group.

“Lifetime Achievements” Credited to Hard Work by Many To The Editor I would like to thank the Lakes Region Tourism Association (LRTA) for the honor of receiving its 2023 Lifetime Tourism Award, and the many kind words I’ve received from those who read about the award in the Granite State News, as well as in social media posts on-line.

The successes mentioned when I was presented with the award could not have happened without the hard work of the many people with whom I’ve had the honor of working with over the past 50 years, and there are dozens.

You know who you are, and this award belongs as much (or more) to you as to me. Congratulations There are two people who stand out, however and I offer a special thanks for their guidance, support and friendship:

my mentor of nearly 50 years, Mildred Beach, who served as director of the Lakes Region Association for 45 years, and Dick Eaton, my former partner of 35 years.

I would also like to thank the hundreds of businesses who supported these endeavors and continue to do so by promoting their businesses in The Laker and with the Wolfeboro Trolley Company.

Cooperative efforts such as these, as well as others like the Lakes Region Tourism Association and the Wolfeboro Area Chamber of Commerce continue to demonstrate how much we can accomplish when we work together for the betterment of our communities and their economic vitality.

Sincerely, Kathy Fairman

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Page 18 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

‘Archduke Trio’ - ‘Masterful Interpretations of the World’s Great Composers’

Wolfeboro Friends of Music continues its 88th season with one of America’s most accomplished classical chamber music/ piano trio ensembles, ‘The Archduke Trio’. This premiere concert takes place at The First Congregational Church, 115 South Main Street, Wolfeboro, on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at 3:00 PM.

Violinist Aaron Berofsky, cellist John Haines-Eitzen, and pianist Matthew Bengtson are each internationally acclaimed soloists and chamber musicians who have performed in major concert halls world-wide. Their recent collaboration has produced brilliant, mature renditions of the classical music repertoire.

marks as Carnegie Hall and MonticelPraised as ‘Masterful’ with ‘dazzling lo. technique’ and ‘extraordinary depth This is the fifth of eight concert perand imagination’, the ensemble is technically and artistically accomplished. formances comprising the current seaTogether they provide a true sense of son running from Sept to May, 88 years ‘chamber music’ at the highest level. of artistic excellence in service to NH’s Lakes Region!

Their frequent recording projects have (Business partners support the Wolfebeen praised for technical assurance boro Friends of Music: Paul Zimmerand passion, apparent in their interman Co. season sponsor, Meredith Vilpretations of Mozart. Beethoven and lage Savings Bank and J. Clifton Avery Brahms, as well as the works of lesser Insurance, show sponsors.) known, yet equally brilliant composTickets are available for $30 at the ers.

OF VINYL WRAPPED COMPOSITE DECKING “energetic, vibrant, technically imwebsite: www.wfriendsofmusic.org; at Black’s Paper & Gift Store and Avery peccable, and in perfect coordination”, Insurance, Main St. Wolfeboro, and at Daniel Morrison, Fanfare magazine the door on the day of the concert (cash “Splendid… this concert is as good and checks only for door sales). as any we will hear this season”, The High School students with ID will be Baltimore Sun admitted free of charge. Children acIndividually, in addition to their accompanied by an adult ticket purchaser complished international concert cawill be admitted free of charge. reers, they serve as esteemed faculty at Cornell University, the University For more information, visit: www. wfriendsofmusic.org of Michigan, and perform in such legendary concert halls and historic land-

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FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 19

Book Sale at Meredith Library The Friends of the Meredith Library will host their first 2024 book sale on Thursday, February 15th (9 to 6), Friday, February 16th (9 to 4:30) and Saturday, February 17th, ( 9 to 1). The sale will be held in the Function Room with plenty of room for the 1,000+ NEW inventory of books for sale. All books are sorted by category for your browsing convenience. The parking lot located at the back of the library (off High Street) offers convenient access.

The mission of the Friends of the Meredith Library is to promote library involvement in the community and community involvement in the library.

Proceeds from our three annual book sales benefit our patrons in many ways.

Friends of Meredith Library (L-R) Jean Dougan, Anne Whiting, Micci Freyenhagen and Nancy Sherman are all ready for the first 2024 book sale They provide funds for children and adult reading programs, passes to the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center,

Castle in the Clouds and various museums; access to ancestry and genealogy programs and guest speakers from the

New Hampshire Humanities Council to name just a few!

There is no admission to the book sale but donations are accepted! Become a NEW member of the Friends, (Individuals $15, Family $25 and Business $50), and you will receive an attractive canvas book bag which in turn can be filled with books (one time), free of charge! Memberships (optional) may be updated any day during the event. Book Dealers are welcome and scanners are permitted at any time during the sale.

Currently, we are not accepting additional book donations but will do so after the sale.

Page 20 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

Laconia Adult Education Winter 2024 Enrichment Class Schedule

Course Title

Day(s)

Start date

Times

# weeks

Cost

Location

Instructor Name

Arts & Crafts Beginner Counted Cross Stitch Intro to Crafts

Mon Wed

1/29/2024 6:30-9:00pm 02/21/2024 6:00-8:00pm

4 6

** $50.00 ** $75.00

LHS-509 LHS-509

Shawn Sinclair Shirley Glines

Health & Wellness All About Twinkles Beginner Blues Beginner ChaCha Beginner Country Two-Step Beginner Quickstep Beginner Samba Better Posture, Better Life Freedom Through Forgiveness Introduction to Spiritual Energies Meditation 101 What are Angels & How to Communicate w/them Yoga for Everyone: Beginning (Tues & Thurs) Session 1 Yoga for Everyone: Beginning (Tues & Thurs) Session 2 Yoga for Everyone: Beginning (Tues & Thurs) Session 3

Mon Mon Mon Tue Tue Tue Tue Thu Thu Thu Thu Tue, Thu Tue, Thu Tue, Thu

01/29/2024 5:45-6:45 pm 01/29/2024 7:45-8:45 pm 01/29/2024 6:45-7:45 pm 01/30/2024 6:45-7:45 pm 01/30/2024 5:45-7:45 pm 01/30/2024 7:45-8:45 pm 01/16/2024 5:30 PM 05/09/2024 6:30-8:30pm 03/14/2024 6:30-8:30pm 04/18/2024 6:30-8:30pm 04/04/2024 6:30-8:30pm 01/30/2024 5:00-6:15 pm 03/05/2024 5:00-6:15 pm 04/02/2024 5:00-6:15 pm

4 4 4 4 4 4 6 1 1 1 1 4 4 4

$90.00 $90.00 $90.00 $90.00 $90.00 $90.00 $99.00 $45.00 $45.00 $45.00 $45.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00

Cafe Cafe Cafe Cafe Cafe Cafe

Juli Pruden Juli Pruden Juli Pruden Juli Pruden Juli Pruden Juli Pruden Janine Page Brenda Paquette Brenda Paquette Brenda Paquette Brenda Paquette Bonnie Morin Bonnie Morin Bonnie Morin

Learning a skill Guitar I for Beginners Basic Woodworking CERT Training (Community Emergency Response Team) Digital Photography 2: Intermediate Series Dog Obedience: Advanced Dog Obedience: Beginning Intro to Intermediate Woodworking Lighthouse and Puffin Cruise-Bar Harbor Lighthouse Lovers Cruise at the Maine Maritime Museum Nature Photography Open Shop Woodworking Smartphone Photography Special Effects with your Digital Camera Welding Fundamentals: ARC,GAS,MIG&TIG- Thursdays Welding Fundamentals: ARC,GAS,MIG&TIG- Tuesdays Welding Fundamentals: ARC,GAS,MIG&TIG- Wednesday

Tues Thu Tue Tue Wed Wed Wed Thu Fri Tue Tue Tue Tue Thu Tue Wed

1/30/2024 7:00-8:00 pm 02/01/2024 6:00-8:30pm 03/05/2024 6:00-9:00pm 02/13/2024 5:30-7:00pm 03/13/2024 7:00-8:00pm 03/13/2024 6:00-8:00 pm 01/31/2024 6:00-8:30 pm 05/23/2024 6:00-8:00 pm 04/19/2024 6:00-8:00 pm 03/05/2024 7:30-9:00 pm 01/30/2024 6:00-8:30 pm 02/13/2024 7:30-9:00 pm 04/09/2024 7:30-9:00 pm 02/01/2024 5:30-8:30 pm 01/30/2024 5:30-8:30 pm 01/31/2024 5:30-8:30 pm

8 8 13 5 8 8 8 3 3 3 10 3 3 10 10 10

$79.00 LHS-813 ** $110.00 LHS-517 $30.00 LHS 615 $120.00 REMOTE $70.00 WHS-Gym $70.00 WHS-Gym ** $110.00 LHS-517 ** $180.00 REMOTE/Location ** $180.00 REMOTE/Location $150.00 REMOTE $110.00 LHS-517 $80.00 Remote $80.00 REMOTE ** $350.00 Welding Lab ** $350.00 Welding Lab ** $350.00 Welding Lab

*Diploma Classes* Economics/ Civics Curent Events and Media Literacy (English) US History Foundations of Math II

Check out our other great offerings:

Downtown Gym

LHS-615 LHS-615 LHS-615 LHS-615 ctc-H225 ctc-H225 ctc-H225

Mon 1/22/2024 6:00-9:00 15 Weeks $280.00 LHS-612 Tues 1/23/2024 6:00-9:00 15 Weeks $280.00 LHS-312 Wed 1/24/2024 6:00-9:00 15 Weeks $280.00 LHS-304 Thurs 1/25/2024 6:00-9:00 15 Weeks $280.00 LHS-611 * * Additional Supply/book fee or pre-class requirement is additional in this course.

Matthew Wood Wes Anderson John Beland Steve McGrath Carolyn Bancroft Carolyn Bancroft Ed Philpot Steve McGrath Steve McGrath Steve McGrath Ed Philpot Steve McGrath Steve McGrath Bruce Beckford Bruce Beckford Bruce Beckford

J. McLeod P. Mignanelli T. Osborne A. Stefanik

HSE (GED or HiSET) Prep- Free Monday & Wednesday nights 6:00-8:30-Starting January 22nd E.S.L.- Free for those learning English Tuesday & Thursday nights 6:00-8:30-starting January 23rd

Classes are in-person except when location is listed as remote.

CHECK ONLINE FOR MORE DETAILED COURSE INFORMATION (Including materials, book fees or Labs) REGISTER AND PAY ONLINE at: adultedlaconia.weebly.com Still have questions? Call Laconia Adult Education at 524-5712

FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 21

For the Love of Glass

furnaces, tiny works of art, cremation memorials, and utilizing broken bottles. Wrapping up with a brief history and identification of your grandmother’s glass, she will offer some creative ideas on how to up-cycle, reuse, and bring it back out into the sun, literally!

The program will be held at the New Durham Public Library, located at the corner of Birch Hill Road and Main Street. Beginning at 7 p.m. on February 8, 2024. For additional information, please call President Catherine Orlowicz, (603) 859-4643, or Vice President Mark McFadden, at (443) 822-9787 e-mail cathyo@tds.net.

Join us for this fun and interactive discussion and be sure to bring your own family pieces for everyone to enjoy and learn from!

The New Durham Historical Society is pleased to announce the February 8, 2024 program entitled “For the Love of Glass,” with special guest speaker Amanda Turner, well well-known local gardener and weed puller at Merrymeeting Daylilies in New Durham, and maybe lesser known as a passionate glass lover who is well versed in the history of glass and glassmaking. Her talk is poised to lead one on a colorful journey through the diversity, chemistry and complexity of decorative glass.

With Amanda as guide, we will experience a hands-on tour through colors and techniques, used mostly through the last two centuries, with an emphasis on; ‘How did they do that?’

Drawing on a broad range of topics and personal experiences, she summarizes time spent working with glass

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Page 22 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024

Pemi Choral Plans 50th Anniversary Spring Concert Series

The 100-voice Pemigewasset Choral Society (Pemi Choral) has begun rehearsals for its May concert “Sweet Rivers.” The two special 50th Anniversary concerts will be performed on May 4, 2024, at the Colonial Theatre in Laconia, N.H., and May 5, 2024, at Silver Center in Plymouth, N.H. The Pemi Choral Society is very grateful to the Laconia Putnam Fund for its generous sponsorship of the 50th Anniversary Concert Series.

The concerts will feature a commissioned work celebrating the chorus’s 50th anniversary, composed by internationally recognized composer Moira Smiley. Her commission is based upon the poem “Flying” by former Plymouth State University professor Jane Babin,

• Snowshoeing continued from page 6 which is another 1.5 miles, offering views of Mount Liberty to the north and Loon Mountain to the south. The hike is best done between December and late March.

For an easy loop, take the Bald Mountain and Artist’s Bluff Trail to reach the top of Bald Mountain. The 1.5-mile trail starts in the parking area across from the Peabody Base Area on Route 18, with a short, steep climb which, with a total gain of just 340 feet, is rated easy. Beware, though: There can be some bare spots on the rocky ledges, which can be icy.

A half-day excursion along mostly gentle to moderate trails will take a snowshoer to Mount Willard in Crawford Notch. The 3.2-mile roundtrip hike offers a view overlooking the U-shaped valley that was carved by glaciers. Hike from the Route 302 trailhead along the Avalon and Mount Willard trails.

Mount Tecumseh is among the

who died from ALS in 2015. Other pieces in the spring concert include Shawn Kirshner’s “Sweet Rivers,” John Rutter’s “As the Bridegroom to His Chosen,” and Franz Schubert’s “Mass in G.”

“The concert title ‘Sweet Waters’ honors the fact that the chorus is named for the Pemigewasset River that flows prominently through this area,” says Choral Director Will Gunn. The Abenaki word Pemigewasset means

“4,000-footers” of the White Mountains, with an elevation of 4,003 feet above sea level. Despite its height, the trail to the summit is sheltered and only 2.5 miles long, making it a favorite for intermediate snowshoers. The trail departs from the Waterville Valley Ski Area, skirting the trails and then climbing for about a mile before intersecting with the Sosman Trail. A fork provides two ways to reach the summit, from which there are views of Mount Washington and other peaks. The best times for snowshoeing are between late December and early March.

Over at Pinkham Notch, the AMC’s Highland Center and Joe Dodge Lodge serve as launch points for some great snowshoe tours. Slightly higher than Mount Tecumseh but also relatively protected from the weather is Mount Pierce, at 4,310 feet, named after New Hampshire’s only president, Franklin Pierce. Departing from the Highland Center on Route 302, the trail begins on the Crawford Connector to the Crawford Path, then climbs through the forest for 3.2 miles before opening up to ledge for the final 0.1

mile to the summit. Normally good for snowshoeing from December to March, it occasionally has sufficient snow to continue into April.

In good weather, Mount Moosilauke, the tenth tallest mountain in the state and the westernmost of the White Mountains, offers one of the best snowshoeing trips, but also among the most challenging — not for the inexperienced. Departing from the end of Breezy Point Road in Warren, snowshoers will follow the five-mile Carriage Road before taking the path to the summit. They are rewarded with a 360-degree view. The best time to go is late December to mid-March.

Near Conway is the Champney Falls Trail, a well-marked trail rated easy to more difficult. It runs 2.8 miles with a gentle incline of 250 feet, but is ungroomed. A hike along the trail provides a winter view of cascades and waterfalls.

The Echo Lake Trail is a flat onemile loop along the edge of the frozen lake, with striking views of Mount Kearsarge North, which is about four miles northeast of North Conway. You may see ice-climbers on White Horse and Cathedral ledges, and encounter walkers and their dogs or a slow-moving snowmobile. The trail is ungroomed but usually it is packed.

Peaked Mountain Trail is an ungroomed 4.2-mile loop off Route 16, just south of North Conway, and offers an easy to more difficult hike with views of mountain peaks and snowy valleys.

It is a gradual climb of 1,100 feet to the bare summit of Peaked Mountain where on a clear day there will be views of Mount Washington, Middle Mountain, Black Cap, and Cranmore.

Many trails cross each other as they

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“swift current coming from the side,” describing the joining of the Baker River to the Pemigewasset.

The Pemi Chorus is a 100-voice regional community chorus based in Plymouth, N.H., with a wide-ranging musical repertoire. Members come from communities throughout the Lakes Region, Central New Hampshire and the White Mountains. The chorus boasts a diverse range of ages from high school students to beyond 80. They perform concerts in December and May, and welcome new members at the beginning of each semester.

For more information, please visit pemichoral.org, find us on Facebook and Instagram, or email us at pemichoralsociety@gmail.com.

lead to the major peaks.

The Lower Nanamocomuck Ski Trail follows the Swift River for 6.9 miles, providing lots of trail options in and out of the forest and back out to the water’s edge. It is ungroomed with a ski track. At Rocky Gorge, snowshoers can choose to go along Falls Pond or cross a bridge to see the river’s gorge; or take the 0.7-mile Lovequist Loop that goes around the Falls Pond.

The easy but ungroomed 3-mile Boulder Loop Trail offers views of the Passaconaway Valley. With remnants from the work of ancient glaciers, there is a 100-foot slab of rock that snowshoers can actually pass beneath.

Another interesting trail is the 4.7mile Upper Saco River Loop that is rated more difficult. It is part of a trail system that originated on property belonging to two Bartlett-area brothers and has grown to a network of about 40 miles of trails, of which 10 miles are dedicated to snowshoers. Beginners and intermediates can snowshoe along the western part of the network, while veterans can venture farther afield.

There are views of Crawford Notch and Attitash Bear Peak ski area, with Mount Carrigain towering over the river.

The Arethusa Falls Trail in Crawford Notch is a relatively easy 2.6-mile out-and-back three-hour trek with New Hampshire’s tallest waterfall, offering crystal cascades in winter. Ripley Falls and the Frankenstein Cliff are on a connecting trail.

For more information on snowshoeing, check out SkiNH’s blog, “If You Can Walk, You Can Snowshoe” atwww.skinh.com/blog/if-you-canwalk-you-can-snowshoe.

FEBRUARY, 2024 | THE LAKER | Page 23

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Page 24 | THE LAKER | FEBRUARY, 2024