Making Music On The Golden Pond
By Thomas P. Caldwell
Squam Lake became famous as the setting for the film “On Golden Pond” featuring Katherine Hepburn and father-daughter actors Henry and Jane Fonda, but it is not just actors who are attracted to the area. Musicians ranging from Rebecca Turmel, Jim Yeager, Jenna Rice, Audrey Drake, Peter Lawler, and Bob McCarthy to Carly Simon also have found it to be the perfect place to record their music.
That is because Grammy Award-winning guitarist and sound engineer Randy Roos converted an 80-year-old house in Ashland into a recording studio known as Squam Sound, where he can record, produce, mix, and master their songs.
Among those turning to Squam Sound for their recording sessions is veteran actor, game show host, and musician John Davidson, who has just recorded what he sees as becoming his “signature tune” — “They’ll play this when I walk on stage,” he said as he wrapped up a recording session in early September.
John describes Randy as four people in one: “He’s an artist at all the knobs and all the sliders, but he is an incredible, award-winning guitarist and record producer and arranger.”
Describing their four-year musical collaboration, John said, “He’s gotten to know my way of singing and I count on him to tell me, ‘Was that good?’ And he says, ‘Don’t you want to do another?’ And that means that I could do better. But it’s just, it’s a great rela-
tionship.”
It was through Ernest Thompson, the author of “On Golden Pond”, that they became acquainted. John mentioned to Ernest that he had heard there was a sound studio on Squam Lake, and Ernest said, “Oh, I know.” Ernest had used the studio to record the audiobook version of his novel, “The Book of Maps,” about a down-on-his-luck filmmaker who takes his ten-year-old son on a road trip across America, using a 1930s travel guide.
John, who will be 83 in December and has played in major showrooms
of Las Vegas, recorded several singles with Randy at Squam Sound, and said, “Eventually, we’re going to do an album. I just don’t want to work anywhere else.”
Joining them for the recording session was pianist Steve Hunt, who has worked with Randy for four decades.
“I’ve had Randy play in my studio, and I’ve played here at his studio,” Steve said, “and so, when he was working with John, he said they need some piano, and … they wanted to do it here.”
Steve said he knew who John was
“from TV and all that, but I didn’t know he was a singer.” He found out that John came up with a good idea of what he wanted for his piano accompaniment.
Before Steve’s arrival, they sent him a preliminary recording with the vocals, guitar, and drums, so Steve had an idea of how to approach the song.
“I wasn’t quite sure what he wanted until I show up, and then I start playing, and they both give suggestions, and I just try stuff,” Steve said of the recording process. “And then John said, ‘Make it like Rachmaninov,’ and I’m like, ‘Oh, I can do that,’ because I play a little classical. So I started doing it. He’s like, ‘Yeah, that’s it,’ and they’re happy with the track.”
In engineering songs, Randy can rely on a strong musical background that began with playing piano at age nine.
“That didn’t work,” he recalls. “My brain is not wired for keyboard at all; I cannot handle it. And I picked up guitar when I was 10, and that made sense to me.”
Inspired by the Beatles and John Mayall’s “Bluesbreakers” album featuring Eric Clapton, Randy began by playing rock and blues.
“We were playing Boston clubs when I was in tenth grade, and then there was always jazz in the house,” he said. “Then, toward the end of high school, like the summer after junior year, I went to Berklee [College of Music] for
• Music continued on page 4
John Davidson records a vocal track for his new single during a session at Squam Sound in Ashland. (Tom Caldwell Photo)
a seven-week course, like for kids, and met Mick Goodrich, who was a very influential, not well-known except among guitarists, but a very influential innovator of the guitar in the jazz idiom. … It was one of the luckiest things that ever happened to me, because he just opened up the whole world of music, and I got really into jazz.”
with industrial video production, and that led to television and an association with PBS, where he worked with Alan Alda for 12 seasons of Scientific American Frontiers and several episodes in the NOVA series.
During that time, he also worked in the New England Conservatory Jazz Department, then accepted a position at Berklee as associate professor of Guitar and Music Synthesis — a two-daya-week job that he continues today.
play Strats, but I prefer the Gibson thing. But if I need the vibe of a Strat, I do love that one.”
Between his time teaching and recording, Randy still makes time to play. He will be performing with the KR Collective at Hermit Woods Winery in Meredith on the first Friday of each month. Randy and his guitars will be joined by Steve Hunt on piano; Dave Kobrenski on Fula flute, djembe, and ngoni; Mike Rossi on bass; and Tim Gilmore on drums. • Music continued from page 3
Randy was one of the original members of Orchestra Luna, a theatrical rock group that got a major recording deal with Epic Records.
“Rupert Holmes was our producer,” Randy said. “He’s the one that did the Pina Colada song —, the correct title of that, I believe, is ‘Escape’. It was amazing working with him. He’s a very legit musician. He did the orchestral arrangements, wrote them all out, conducted them, and everything. He has a lot together, and he and I just hit it off, because we could speak in very similar musical terms, and it was great.”
The problem was that just as the record came out, “Everyone at Epic Records that loved us left the company, and everyone that replaced them didn’t love us. A month later, we were released from the label. And there’s a lot of stories like that,” Randy said.
After playing in his band for a while, Randy enrolled at Berklee, studying there for a year before getting a record contract of his own.
“And then I got married and decided that doing bands and being on the road and all that was not conducive to my married life,” he said.
Through a friend, he got involved
“I’m in my 21st year now,” he said. “I totally love it, and every year I’m at Berklee, I kind of I love it more, and it led to my Grammy.”
He had been “trading guitar lessons” with another guitar faculty member, Berta Rojas, a world-class classical guitarist from Paraguay. Randy recorded, mixed, and mastered her album, “Legado”, which won the Latin Grammy for Best Classical Album. Because he had engineered it, Randy also won the Grammy.
Randy said he prefers old Gibson guitars, and he has one from 1961 and another from 1967.
He also found a Taylor acoustic made with Koa wood that he loves for its softer sound.
“And then I got into a funny retuning of it that required a big fat string. I tuned the fifth string, the A string, down an octave. So I bought another one of the same guitars and had that outfitted to handle that string.”
The other guitar he especially likes is a Fernandez guitar based on the Fender Stratocaster, “but nicer”.
“I prefer the Gibson thing over the Fender Strat thing,” he said. “I know most electric guitar players nowadays
Before opening Squam Sound, Randy built “a small, well-equipped recording studio” in the attic of his Roslindale home. The studio then took over the master bedroom of that house. When he and his wife moved to New Hampshire, they added a 1,900-squarefoot addition to their new home, to have a recording studio with two isolation rooms. That is Squam Sound.
“I just kind of fell into it,” Randy said of the recording studio. “I ended up really loving that work.”
Meredith Fine Craft Gallery Welcomes Rachel Normington
The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, Meredith Fine Craft Gallery is delighted to announce newly juried member Rachel Normington, an accomplished potter.
Normington’s journey with clay began towards the end of high school and was continued at the NH Institute of Art where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art in 2010. After traveling the country for a few years, Normington settled in Oregon, built her garage studio, and sold pottery at the farmers market. Normington then moved back to NH where her creative gifting comes to life in her pottery.
Normington’s work has a unique charm combining nature-inspired elements with geometric patterns. Her use of simple geometric shapes creates patterns that contrast and complement with textures and designs reminiscent of natural elements. Normington’s glazes beautifully emphasize the rustic
aspect and highlight the beauty of the clay. Her pieces are both delightful and functional and are a blend of organic and structured aesthetics.
Normington’s handcrafted eclectic work makes her a perfect fit for the Gallery. Be inspired by her creativity when you stop by the Gallery to see her pottery.
For more information please call the Gallery at 603-279-7920 or visit our website Meredith.nhcrafts.org. The League of NH Craftsmen Gallery is located at 279 DW Hwy. Meredith, NH. The League of NH Craftsmen is a non-profit organization that encourages and promotes the creation, use, and preservation of fine contemporary and traditional handcraft. The League represents the signature of excellence in fine craft, through its juried members’ work and its rigorous standards for self-expression, vision, and quality craftsmanship.
Perfect Pasta: Easy Recipes for Every Occasion
By Kelly Ross
Hello everyone, are you ready for more recipes? As the seasons start to change, sometimes our eating mentalities change as well. Summertime is usually more about grilling and eating healthy. I’m not saying that we all can’t use that eating attitude year-round, but as the fall and winter seasons start making an appearance, we often are looking for something heartier, something with that “stick to your ribs” kind of thinking. I love and appreciate the many emails I get from some of you giving me your feedback on recipes, and, those of you who are always looking for new ideas for meals at home for the family and when entertaining. That is where today’s ideas come from as I have had a few of you looking for new pasta recipes apart from the usual suspects. Whether it be a simple and delicious sauté dish, or an oven-baked pasta casserole of sorts, a good pasta dish is often just what the doctor ordered. Pasta is quite universal in that almost anything can be tossed into many of these dishes. If you make these recipes as I have written, or if you change them more to your liking, I think you’ll find these to be outstanding. Many of these use shellfish, but if not your thing, sub chicken for a just as awesome alternative. Let’s get the ball rolling.
Let’s start with the easiest of the day although it takes nothing away from quality. This is a vegetarian sauté dish you can easily add chicken, shrimp, and/ or scallops to give it a protein punch if needed. As written, the key ingredients here are cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil to bulk up this pasta dish with a touch of white wine to punch it. I usually use linguine with this dish, but the choice is yours. This dish is healthy,
hearty, and just plain yummy. This will feed 4 anyway and can be done in less than a half-hour
Tomato Basil Pasta
1 lb linguine
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp salted butter
¼ tsp red pepper flakes or more depending on your taste
½ cup fresh basil, or sub 1 tbsp or more of basil pesto
¼ cup or more of freshly grated
Parmesan
½ cup white wine, optional, but recommended
Salt and freshly cracked pepper
Lemon wedges to squeeze over the final product
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta to al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until blistered, about 5 minutes. Add
OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK Thu-Tues 10:00am - 5:30pm (Closed Wednesdays)
A Program for Every Interest
• Guided Hikes & Walking Tours
• Castle Sunset Tour
• Teacher Cocktail Night
• Lucknow Garden Tours
• Castle Car Show and Much More!
GUIDED LUCKNOW MANSION TOURS • �35
• 9:30am Daily
• May 25 - Oct 20
• Offered once daily with advance ticket purchase
garlic, butter, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute. Add the white wine, and/or a small amount of pasta water to form a sauce. Add cooked, drained pasta to the pan of tomatoes. Add basil and parmesan and stir well, adding additional pasta water and/or wine as needed to coat the pasta. Top with more fresh grated parmesan and maybe some chopped fresh basil to garnish, squeeze a lemon wedge or 2 over each plate, and feel free to bust out some good quality bread if desired.
Continuing with the sauté theme, shrimp and an outstanding lemon sauce are what make this dish a rock star. Again, I usually use linguine for this dish, but spaghetti or fettuccine will always work great. This bad boy is chock full of shrimp and when coated in the sauce, they pop with incredible flavor. The shrimp gets a quick marinade, and unlike the last one where it had no protein and just veggies, this one is just the opposite as this has no veggies, so add some if preferred. I use the sauce for this dish in many other ways, especially
alluring destination
with chicken. It won’t let you down. This feeds 4-6, prep is about a half-anhour, and it takes only 10 minutes to toss together. You will need the zest of 3 lemons as well as the juice from some. Lemon Linguine and Shrimp
For The Shrimp
2 lbs large shrimp, ideally 16/20 in size, shelled and deveined
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Lemon zest from 2 lemons
½ cup chopped parsley
4 cloves of garlic, minced
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
For The Lemon Sauce
1 lb or a little more dry spaghetti
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
Lemon zest from one lemon
½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
½ cup chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to season
For the marinade, in a bowl toss together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and minced garlic, add the shrimp and toss to coat. Set aside to marinate at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. When the water reaches a rapid boil, salt the water and toss in the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper and cook in a single layer, for about 2 minutes on each side, depending on the size of the shrimp. Also, depending on the size of your pan, you may have to cook the shrimp in 2 batches. Once the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside. For the • ‘Cue The Grill continued on page 6
Photo by Terry Noack
Photo by John Gisis
sauce, whisk together the ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/3 cup lemon juice and zest, freshly grated cheese, parsley, and a dash of salt and pepper. Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour the lemon sauce over the drained pasta and toss to combine. Add a little bit of the reserved pasta water if needed. You’ll want to add just enough of the reserved pasta water to moisten the spaghetti. Add most of the shrimp and toss well. Transfer the spaghetti onto a serving platter and top with the remaining shrimp. Sprinkle with a dash of chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can bring the assembled platter to the table and let everyone help themselves or make in-
dividual servings topped with an equal amount of shrimp, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and garnished with parsley and pass extra cheese around the table if you wish as I’m all about extra cheese to top off most any pasta dish.
The last sauté dish of the day is a classic Sicilian dish chock full of spice and flavors. This includes some awesome ingredients which may chase a few away if authentic Sicilian isn’t your thing, but just try omitting said ingredients. This includes chopped black olives, anchovies, capers, and a spicy pepper. Those are staples in old-school Italian cooking and I’m a big fan as they bring the proper flavors to succeed in this dish. When it comes to capers, it’s always important to use the ones that are packed in salt as that is key in achieving the outcome that is needed. You can buy some not salted but I strongly frown on that, but
you’re the boss. Like the first one, this is a non-protein dish that packs a punch. Plan on just under an hour to make this and this will feed 4-6 of you lucky eaters.
Fiery Sicilian Spaghetti
1 can peeled whole tomatoes, 16 oz, drained in a colander
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for the pasta water
2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed 8 anchovy fillets in oil
2 tbsp capers in salt, rinsed and minced
3 tbsp black olives, pitted and chopped
1 hot red pepper, 2 inches long, halved and seeds removed
Salt
½ cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
1 lb spaghetti
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Pour the tomatoes in a colander over a large bowl to drain for at least 15 minutes remembering you may need some of the tomato juice later. Warm the olive oil with the smashed garlic cloves in a large frying pan over low heat and sauté the garlic for a few minutes until it is very aromatic and lightly golden. Add the anchovies, smash them with the back of a fork, and sauté until the anchovy pieces have dissolved. Add the capers, olives, and the halved hot pepper and sauté for a few minutes, until
the pepper is soft. Squish the tomatoes between your fingers directly into the frying pan. Add salt to taste and cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, until all the ingredients are integrated and very thick. You may need to add a little of the tomato juice if the mixture starts to stick to the pan. Stir in the parsley, taste again for salt, and turn off the heat until you’re ready to toss it with the pasta. In the meantime, bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Stir in a small fistful of salt and a splash of oil. Add the spaghetti and stir to prevent it from sticking together. Boil until the spaghetti is al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving the pasta water, and place in the frying pan with the sauce mixture. Toss the spaghetti and sauce and a small ladleful of the reserved tomato juice and/ or hot pasta water over high heat for 2 minutes, adding more of the water or juice as needed if the spaghetti is dry or sticky. Transfer the spaghetti to a pasta bowl and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese. A classic, authentic dish!
OK, let’s move on to baked pasta dishes. Lasagna is easily one of the most popular baked pasta dishes known to man, especially a traditional red lasagna with meats and cheese. Since I feel confident most of you have made your
• ‘Cue The Grill continued on page 8
share of those over the years, let’s make a white seafood lasagna. The seafood I usually use is shrimp and crabmeat which works out great. You make an alfredo sauce of sorts, combine that with some ricotta and cheese, and then start layering with the pasta. I have never met a lasagna I didn’t like, and this one is one of the best ones I have bumped across. You can prep this in less than a half hour and cooking time is barely a half hour. Like any lasagna, I suggest letting it rest for 10-15 minutes anyway before cutting into it. Plan on a dozen generous pieces. As much as I love lasagna right out of the oven, it’s just as awesome microwaved the next day or 2. I love serving this with a hunk or 2 of garlic bread and a side of Caesar salad.
Seafood Lasagna
1 lb lasagna noodles
4 tbsp butter
4 tsp minced garlic, divided
¼ cup plus 1 tbsp flour
3 cups milk
¼ tsp dry oregano
¼ tsp dried basil
1 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
½ tbsp salt
¼ tbsp ground white pepper
1 container ricotta cheese, 15 oz
1 egg
2 ½ cups or more of grated mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup chopped parsley
1 lb cooked shrimp, chopped in half if large
1 lb crabmeat
Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and separate. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter with 2 tsp of the minced garlic as well as the oregano and basil, then add flour and whisk until smooth to make a flavored roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until thick. Turn off the heat and add ½ cup parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. In a bowl com-
Open Daily
• Winnisquam 528-6434
adventure Bring the camera and the family!
10am - 5pm with this coupon
bine ricotta cheese, egg, the rest of the garlic, 2 cups mozzarella, and parsley. Stir to combine. Mix shrimp and crab in a bowl. In a greased 9 x 13-inch pan, layer 1 cup sauce in the pan, place 3 noodles side by side, top with ⅓ of the ricotta mixture, and top with 1/3 of the seafood mixture. Repeat the process 2 more times and finish with the remaining sauce, the remaining mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Cover and cook in a 350-degree oven for 30 minutes, uncover and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Allow to rest for 15-20 minutes to set, then slice as you will and serve. Lastly, this baked feta and cherry tomato pasta bake is a quick and easy dish coated in creamy feta and bursting with juicy tomato flavor. This is easily the most unique recipe of the day as the tomatoes and feta are baked, then mashed to create the sauce, and then combined with the pasta. Although not included in this recipe, I have experimented with adding fresh spinach, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives, as well as shredded chicken at times. Like I said earlier, I prefer to give you the basic recipe and then add other ingredients as needed. Prep is really quick, like 10 minutes maybe, and cooking time is a half hour. I usually get 6-8 portions from this. If you use more than 1 pint of tomatoes or add veggies and chicken, you may want to bulk up on the feta somewhat as well.
Baked Feta Pasta
8 oz feta cheese block 1-2 pints cherry tomatoes depending on how tomatoey you want the sauce
¼ cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, or ¼ tsp each of basil and oregano
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
1 lb penne pasta
¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
Freshly chopped basil leaves for garnish
Freshly grated parmesan cheese for garnish
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place cherry tomatoes in a baking dish, size will depend on if you add additional ingredients. Add ¼ cup olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper over tomatoes and toss to coat well, then add red pepper flakes if desired. Place the feta block in the middle of the tomatoes, pushing the tomatoes to the sides. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over feta cheese. Place in oven and bake for 30 minutes. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta per the package directions. After the feta and tomatoes have cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, mash the feta and tomatoes to create a creamy sauce. Then, add the pasta to the tomato-feta mixture and toss to combine thoroughly. Garnish with fresh basil and/ or parmesan cheese if desired. Again, this is great with bread. So that wraps up another day of food fun. When you are up for a great pasta meal, I hope you feel comfortable enough to give at least one of these a test drive. Until we chat next week, keep those taste buds of yours smiling, and if you care to touch base with any questions or feedback, reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com
Lakes Region Symphony Orchestra 2024-2025 Season
The Lakes Region Symphony Orchestra (LRSO) is back with a thrilling new season that takes you on an unforgettable musical journey. Whether you’re a classical music lover, a fan of holiday favorites, or ready to groove to the hits of the 70s, there’s something for everyone in our 2024-2025 lineup. Mark your calendars and get ready for an amazing experience!
“Romantic Revelations” -
of Dvorak’s Cello Concerto in B minor You’ll also get to enjoy Mendelssohn’s thrilling Hebrides Overture and the stunningly beautiful Symphony No. 2 by Vasily Kalinnikov.
“Take A Bough!” - December 7, 2024, 7 p.m. & December 8, 2024, 3 p.m. Colonial Theatre, Laconia | Inter-Lakes Auditorium, Meredith.
It’s time to get festive with our annual holiday concert “Take A Bough!” We feature the dynamic duo Rachel and Alex Hunton – extraordinary vocal and theatre performers from Laconia’s Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative. They’ll bring a fresh twist to your favorite holiday tunes, from Ave Maria and The Prayer to Baby It’s Cold Outside and White Christmas, with everything in between. If you’re looking for a concert that’ll fill
the heart of Austria and Germany with “Vienna to Berlin: A Germanic Journey.” LRSO Principal Violist Sally Wituszynski takes center stage to perform the enchanting Romanze by Max Bruch. The concert also explores the lively Die Fledermaus Overture by Strauss, Brahms’ spirited Hungarian Dances #5 and #6, and Schumann’s deeply expressive Symphony No. 2, which reflects the composer’s personal and artistic triumphs.
“Vintage Grooves - Hits of the 70s” - May 10, 2025, 7 p.m. & May 11, 2025, 3 p.m. Colonial Theatre, Laconia | Inter-Lakes Auditorium, Meredith.
The season finale “Vintage GroovesHits of the 70s” transports you back to the vibrant era of disco, soul, and classic rock. Featuring the amazing vocal
talents of Taylor O’Donnell and Adrian Sicam, whose diverse musical roots span jazz, R&B, classical, and rock, this concert brings to life the timeless hits of Earth Wind & Fire, Chicago, Doobie Brothers, Carole King, Bee Gees, Billy Joel, Joni Mitchell, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, ABBA and more. Groove along to classics like New York State Of Mind, What A Fool Believes, and Dancing Queen, and the energy of Rocky, Journey, and Jesus Christ
Superstar. This is a concert experience you won’t want to miss! Tickets are on sale now at www.LRSO. org. Take advantage of Discount Ticket Packages for Inter-Lakes performances in Meredith – save money and reserve the same great seats for Inter-Lakes performances. Visit www.LRSO. org for details. Join us for a season of magnificent music, good vibes, and unforgettable memories!
Club Piklbal! Indoor Pickleball Club to Open at Belknap Marketplace
Club Piklbal!, the first indoor pickleball club in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, is excited to announce its upcoming opening at Belknap Marketplace, located at 96 Daniel Webster Hwy, in late Fall 2024.
Pickleball, a sport enjoyed by all ages and skill levels, is one of the fastest-growing activities in the United States. This trend is also evident in the Lakes Region, where enthusiasts have traditionally played on outdoor courts or in gymnasiums. According to USA Pickleball, 36.5 million people are currently playing pickleball across the country. The sport’s appeal lies in its social and competitive nature, offering participants a fun way to stay active, build friendships, and connect with a community. A Mayo Clinic study shows that playing racket sports can add 6.2 to 9.7 years to the average lifespan.
Club Piklbal! aims to be a community-centered, state-of-the-art indoor pickleball facility that is open yearround for players of all ages and abilities. The club’s mission is to provide a comfortable and positive experience,
making it easy for members to show up, play, enjoy some friendly competition, have fun, and build connections.
The 23,000-square-foot facility will feature eight indoor, temperature-controlled, fenced-in pickleball courts with CushionX premium court surfaces. Additionally, members and guests can enjoy a Wellness Suite, Pro Shop, Training Area, Lounge/Event Space, and multiple viewing areas for spectators to watch the games.
Club Piklbal! will stand out from other pickleball facilities by offering organized programming, including lessons from a Club Piklbal! Pro/Coach, leagues, ladders, and level-specific open play. Players can also reserve courts for their groups. While Club Piklbal! welcomes guests, membership options will provide additional benefits and perks.
The facility will also be available for hosting private events. The lounge offers a fantastic space for corporate events, family reunions, birthday parties, and more. Event hosts can even incorporate pickleball into their gatherings by reserving courts as part of the
festivities.
Whether you’re interested in lessons, leagues, open play, court reservations, or becoming a club member, Club Piklbal! will welcome all when it opens in late Fall 2024.
If you want to stay updated on Club
Piklbal!‘s progress, join the email list at ClubPiklbal.com today. By signing up, you’ll receive real-time updates and have the opportunity to take advantage of pre-opening membership options. Visit ClubPiklbal.com for more information.
Ossipee Historical Society to Raise Funds for Building Repairs and Restorations
October fundraiser by the Ossipee Historical Society will take place at the Masonic Lodge # 74, Rt. 25 East # 523 across from Abbott’s and Staples gas station on October 8, starting at 11 a.m.
Lois Sweeney, the Society’s President announces “The monies raised will help support the needed repairs and restorations to our buildings, the Grant Hall Museum in Center Ossipee and the Early Settlers Meeting House in Granite”. This fundraiser is published as “Value of Your Treasure”. Kirk Gilmore of White Mountain Gallery will offer “Opinion of Value” for $15.00 per item of your antique or special item
of family history you are interested to know, what is it worth, and how old is it, Call Lois at 603-539-1984 to make a 15-minute appointment with Mr. Gilmore or for questions you may have.
The Society offers a great way to support this effort and learn about your piece of family history.
Refreshments will be served to members following a short Annual Meeting. New memberships are always welcome for $20 per person dues and or donations for this effort are greatly appreciated. Mail to: Ossipee Historical Society, P.O. Box 177, Center Ossipee NH 03814
Prestigious Jeweler Paulette Werger to Teach Classes at Makers Mill This Fall
Makers Mill, the vibrant community maker space in Wolfeboro, NH, is excited to announce that renowned jeweler Paulette Werger will be teaching two exclusive jewelry-making classes this fall. This rare opportunity will allow artisans, jewelry enthusiasts, and members of the community to learn from one of the most prestigious names in the field.
Paulette Werger is celebrated for her stunning jewelry, known for its abstracted botanical forms and the beauty of line drawing. Her work is deeply inspired by nature, drawing from the first blooms of spring and the remnants of winter. Werger’s passion for tools and metalsmithing was sparked in her youth, spending her early years drawing and working in her father’s auto garage. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Hudson River School landscape
paintings created by her great-grandfather, she developed a deep connection to the natural world, which is a persistent theme in her designs.
Werger’s artistic philosophy focuses on stripping away excess to highlight core images, surfaces, and functionality. She works primarily with silver, high-karat gold, ethically sourced gems, and pearls, incorporating classical techniques such as fusing, forging, and fabricating. Her jewelry often features vibrant colors achieved through torch-fired enamel.
Werger holds a B.S. in Painting and Sculpture and an M.F.A. in Art Metal. Now based in New Hampshire, she teaches metal techniques nationally and online from her studio at AVA Gallery and Art Center. Paulette creates jewelry, flatware, and vessels, and is represented in galleries across the
Summer Issue Now Available
Dining
country. Since 1997, she has been a juried member and exhibitor with the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, and she has also served on the Board of Directors at MetalWerx. This year, she was honored to be the Keynote Speaker at the Annual Meeting of the prestigious Colorado Metalsmithing Association (COMA) in Aurora, Colorado.
Paulette Werger will teach the following classes at Makers Mill: Chain Making on Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. This class will teach participants to design unique chains and linkages using Argentium silver. The course covers fused link techniques, torch skills, and creative design.
Making Your Mark on Saturday, October 19, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This class explores texture and pattern in jewelry design. Participants will
learn techniques such as roller embossing, stamping, and solder inlay, with a focus on using the rolling mill.
“We are thrilled to welcome Paulette to Makers Mill,” said Deb Ryan, instructor at Makers Mill. “Her talent and expertise offer an incredible opportunity for our community to learn from one of the best.”
Spaces are limited, and early registration is highly encouraged. For full class details and to register, visit makersmill.org/events. Makers Mill also offers public tours every Friday and the first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., providing the chance to learn more about the tools, resources, and opportunities available. Located in Wolfeboro, NH, Makers Mill is committed to enriching rural lives through creative skill-building and collaboration.
A Whirlwind of Fun: New Hampshire’s Fall Fairs and Festivals
By Mark Okrant
Friends and neighbors in our local retirement community are busy people. When they’re not playing ping pong, pickleball, Tuck, poker, mah jongg, or reading for the book club, they are looking for other things to do. Given the fact that a percentage of us grew up on a farm situated somewhere between Maine and the Midwest, it’s only natural to add attendance at fairs to our lists.
Etymologists tell us that the Latin word ‘feria’, meaning holy day, appears to be the root of the word ‘fair’—defined as a day when many people would assemble for worship. The great cities of the ancient world served as commercial centers. Often, fields adjacent to temples were staked out for traders. Then, during the early Christian era, the church took an active part in sponsoring fairs on feast days, thus providing revenue for the churches themselves.
This blend of religion and commerce ultimately found its way into Western Europe. Seasonal gatherings brought together the producers of all types of commodities for barter, exchange, or sale. After a time, entertainment and other forms of activity were added, thus evolving into the fairs as we know them today. The first known fair in
North America was chartered as a twoday agricultural market in York, Pennsylvania.
It was left to a Pittsfield, Massachusetts farmer named Elkanah Watson to create the first ‘county fair’, where crops and cattle were exhibited, in September 1811. This event consisted of a competition, with seventy dollars in prize money paid for the best displays of oxen, cattle, swine, sheep, crops, and land use ideas. Watson is credited with helping numerous communities organize agricultural societies and associated fairs. By 1819, most counties in New England had organized their agricultural societies, and the movement already was spreading into the other states. The nineteenth century closed with almost every state and province having one or more agricultural fairs or
exhibitions. As time went on, the main purpose of these fairs was to educate farmers.
Here in New Hampshire, there are, during the average year, nine agricultural fairs, sixteen annual festivals, fifteen food and drink events, and five fall foliage festivals. Also, numerous local-level events are occurring throughout the year.
The dates for six of the nine New Hampshire Agricultural Fairs already will have passed before the release of this publication, while a seventh should presently be in progress. A list of the six fairs follows:
North Haverhill Fair: July 24 through July 28, 2024
Cheshire Fair: August 1 through August 4, 2024
Belknap County 4-H Fair: August 3
through August 4, 2024
Cornish Fair: August 16 through August 18, 2024
Lancaster Fair: August 29 through September 2, 2024
Hopkinton State Fair: August 29 through September 2, 2024
The following are three agricultural fairs that are either presently ongoing or will be held during late September or mid-October.
1. Hillsborough County Agricultural Fair, at 15 Hill Dale Lane, in New Boston, NH: Friday, September 6 through Sunday, September 8, 2024. Fairgoers will be treated to a range of events and the usual eating opportunities. Events include a stock farm tractor pull, clown shows and other children’s activities, animal shows—including dogs and various farm animals, pumpkin and maple syrup tasting shows, amusement rides, battle of the bands, tractor pull, a horseshoe tournament, and lots of live music. Tickets are available at hillsbouroughfairnh@gmail.com
2. Deerfield Fair at Deerfield Fairgrounds in Deerfield: Thursday, September 26 through Sunday, September 29, 2024. There will be five stages
• Fairs continued on page 13
• Fairs continued from page 12
filled with music and entertainment. Highlights are The Flying Wallendas high wire act, Charlie Marie western singer, the Club Soda top-40 band, Carolyn Ramsay soulful rock band, The Rockin’ Daddios doo-wop band, and country artist Nicole Knox Murphy. In addition to the usual fare of animal and produce exhibitions and contests, there will be juggling acts, puppet shows, magicians, and much more music. Tickets may be purchased online at deerfieldfair.seetickets.com
3. Sandwich Fair at Sandwich Fairgrounds in Center Sandwich: Saturday, October 12 through Monday, October 14, 2024. This exposition, which traditionally closes out the state fair season, is loaded with events and activities. Much like the other New Hampshire fairs, there will be animal shows/contests, music, tractor pulls, rides for the entire family, and a mentalist. However, the Sandwich Fair also offers
competitions in cornhole as well as keg and skillet tossing, various children’s matches, a substantial fiber arts demonstration, as well as antique automobiles. Tickets may be purchased online at thesandwichfair.com.
There are still numerous festivals, food and drink events, and fall foliage to attend. A partial list follows: Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, September 6-8
Vintage & Vine, Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, September 21.
And let’s not forget The Big E, the self-described largest fair on the east coast. Held from September 13 through 29, the Big E is located, as always, at the Eastern States Exposition, in West Springfield, Massachusetts. The Big E offers hundreds of opportunities to interact with the best of New England. This includes the six large buildings that house each of the New England states. Inside each of those structures, visitors will have an opportunity to plan future vacations while sampling special foods
and crafts from Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Spread elsewhere throughout the Exposition complex, there are food booths, amusement rides, children’s games, as well as exhibits of various kinds. Examples include Dolly’s Mechanical Bull, DNA Mindreaders, the juggler Mighty Mike, and Mobile Glass Studios. Each afternoon, there is the Big Parade where people line the street to vie for Mardi
Gras-style beads. Finally, there are several stages where music and entertainment artists are scheduled to perform. Examples are the popular Circus Spectacular, Stompin’ Boots (line dancing), the Leon Trout rock band, Deep Blue Something band, Natalia Bonfini blues singer, Pepa of Salt and Pepa, and Matt Friend comedian. This list is just for starters. To learn more about the Big E and how to purchase tickets online, go to: thebige.com
Sept. 16, Roller Skating Night, 5 – 7 p.m., Ossipee Town Hall, free skating format, bring your own skates, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, waver/info.: 603539-2008.
Sept. 17, Craft & Chat: Dorset Buttons, 5- 6:30 p.m., Moultonboro Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, pre-register: 603-476-8895.
Sept. 17, Lecture Series: Howard Manfield – I Will Tell no War Stories : What Our Fathers left unsaid about WWII, 7 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
Sept. 17, Tech Workshop – Phoneography, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Moultonboro Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, pre-register: 603-476-8895.
Sept. 18, Newfound Science Pub: Bird Conservation, 5 - 7 p.m., chat by Chris Martin, raptor specialist at NH Audubon and John Cooley, senior biologist at Loon Preservation Committee, held at Newfound Lake Inn, 1030 Mayhew Turnpike, Bridgewater, by Newfound Lake Region Assoc., pre-register: www.newfoundlake.org., 603-744-8689.
Sept. 18, Polliwogs, 10 – 11:30 a.m., 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: 603366-5695.
Sept. 18, Saturn & the Night Sky Through a Telescope, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., multi-generational program, 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: 603-3665695.
Sept. 18, Tech Workshop – Phoneography, 1 - 2:30 p.m., Moultonboro Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, pre-register: 603-476-8895.
Sept. 19, Cybersecurity for the Public, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Moultonboro Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, pre-register: 603-476-8895.
Sept. 19, Fall Crafting for Kids – Apple Pie & Playdough, 3 – 4:15 p.m., Moultonboro Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, pre-register: 603476-8895.
Sept. 19, Onwego, 6 p.m., Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, ticket reservations: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com
Sept. 20, Damn the Torpedoes, A Live Tom Petty Concert Experience, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh.com, 603-536-2551.
Sept. 20: Guided Exploration: Plymouth Mountain, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., free, open to all, by Newfound Lake Region Assoc., pre-registration required: 603-744-8689, www.newfoundlake.org.
Sept. 20, Jordan TW Trio, Barnstormers Theatre, 104 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8500, www.barnstormerstheatre.org
Sept. 20, Searching for Big Foot, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, pre-register: 603-476-8895.
Sept. 20, The Sixties Show, 8 p.m., Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.
Sept. 20, Tim Sample, 8 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com.
Sept. 20, Winni Chase Regatta, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m., Pinckney Boathouse, Brewster Academy, 80 Academy Drive, Wolfeboro, multi-school rowing regatta, open to public, 603-569-7198, www.brewsteracademywinni-chase.com
Sept. 21, Almost Queen: A Tribute to Queen, 8 p.m., Colonial Theatre, 609 Main St., Laconia, 800-657-8774, www.coloniallaconia.com.
Sept. 21, Cattails: Crafting, Cordage, First Aid & More, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., age 12 & up, 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.
Sept. 21, Danny Klein’s Full House, 8 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com.
Sept. 21, Extreme Survival with Michael Tougias, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org
Sept. 21, Great NH Pie Fest, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., all you can eat from an array of pies, NH Farm Museum,1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 603-6527840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org
Sept. 21, Intermediate Soapmaking: Colorful Soaps, 10 a.m. – 12:30 a.m., age 16 & up, 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.
Sept. 21, Moose on the Move Bike Fest, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Abenaki Trails, 309 Pine Hill Rd., Wolfeboro, by Moose Mountains Regional Greenways, 603-4732020, www.mmrgnh.org.
Sept. 21, Run for the Fallen, 8:30 a.m. – noon, with opening ceremony at Field of Honor, Town Square, followed by 4-mile walk/loop, 1-800-GO-VALLEY, info@watervillevalley.com.
Sept. 21, Summer Music Series, Family Affair, 3 – 6 p.m., Gunstock Barrel Bar and Grille, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Rt. 11A, Gilford, 603-293-4341, www. gunstock.com.
Sept. 21, Wildlife Photography From the Water, with Matt Cohen, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., meet at Lee’s Mills Boat Launch in Moultonborough; bring/rent your own kayak/canoe; DSLR and smartphones), Artworks Gallery, 603-323-8041, www. chocoruaartworks.com.
Sept. 21 & 22, Falling Leaves Craft Fair, 9/21: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; 9/22: 20 a.m.4 p.m., Tanger Outlets, 120 Laconia Rd., Rt. 3, Tilton, Joyce’s Craft Fair, 603528-4014, www.joycescraftshows.com.
Sept. 21 & 22, Middleton Fly-In, Car Show & Vendor Fair, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., crafts, fly-in, cars on display, food trucks, bounce houses, Ben Lane Band from 1 – 3 p.m., Therriaults Landing Airfield, 120 Ridge Rd., Middleton, 603-231-0284. Sept. 22, Miriam featuring Amy Fairchild and Carla Ryder, 7 p.m., Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323-6169, www.thefarmstand.net.
Sept. 22, Waterville Valley Mountain Race, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Waterville Valley Resort, 1 Ski Area Road, Waterville Valley, 1-800-GO-VALLEY, info@watervillevalley.com.
Sept. 22, Wild Life Photography from the Water with Matt Cohen, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts/CCAC, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com.
Sept. 24, Lecture Series: David Chrisinger – The Soldiers Truth: Ernie Pyle and the Story of WWII, 7 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
Sept. 25, Katie Dobbins Music Songwriter Roundup, 6 p.m., Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, ticket reservations a must: 603-2537968, www.hermitwoods.com
Sept. 25, Polliwogs, 10 – 11:30 a.m., 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: 603366-5695.
Sept. 26, Castle Sunset Tour, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Sept. 26: Guided Exploration: Northern Newfound Water Trail, 10 a.m. –noon., free, open to all, pre-registration required: 178 N Shore Rd., Hebron, 603744-8689, www.newfoundlake.org.
Sept. 26, Guided Hike: Oak Ridge, 10 a.m. – noon, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Sept. 26, Harp Twins, Barnstormers Theatre, 104 Main St., Tamworth, 603-3238500, www.barnstormerstheatre.org.
Sept. 26-28, Book Sale, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Thurs & Fri.; 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. on Sat., Meredith Public Library, sponsored by Friends of Meredith Library, everything must go, 91 Main St., Meredith Ample parking off High St. entrance. Wheelchair accessible, 603-279-4303, www.meredithlibrary.org
Sept. 27, Shemekia Copeland, 8 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com.
Sept. 27-28, Wolfeboro Sidewalk Sale Days, 9 a.m., sales all over Wolfeboro, 603-569-2200, www.wolfeborochamber.com.
Sept. 27-29, Wolfeboro Fall Festival, 10 a.m., details: www.wolfeborochamber. com.
Sept. 28, 25th Annual Chili Challenge, noon - 2 p.m., with live entertainment will be at the Gazebo stage in Town Square from noon – 3 p.m., Waterville Valley Resort, 1 Ski Area Road, Waterville Valley, 1-800-GO-VALLEY, info@watervillevalley.com.
Sept. 28, Annual Rally in the Valley, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Waterville Valley Resort, 1 Ski Area Road, Waterville Valley, 1-800-GO-VALLEY, info@watervillevalley. com.
Sept. 28, Autumn Wreath Making, 10 a.m. - noon, adult program, 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.
Sept. 28, Bob Wolfman Band, 7 - 10 p.m., blues, rock & jazz, Inn on Main, barn setting, 200 Main St., Wolfeboro, tickets/info.: https://bobwolfman.com/showdates
Sept. 28, Hawk Watch with Scott Weidensaul, 9 a.m. – noon, Birch Ridge Community Forest, New Durham, renowned ornithologist and best-selling nature writer Scott Weidensaul, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways, www. mmrgnh.org., 603-473-2020.
Sept. 28, Intro to Compass & Navigation, 1 – 3 p.m., age 12 & up, www. prescottfarm.org. Adults & older youth, call ahead for event information and to inquire if program pre-registration is necessary: 603-366-5695.
Sept. 28, Kingswood Youth Center’s 15th Annual Chili Challenge, 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Foss Field Pavilion, 88 Lehner St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-5949, www. thekyc.org.
Sept. 28, Summer Music Series, Garrett Smith, 3 – 6 p.m., Gunstock Barrel Bar and Grille, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Rt. 11A, Gilford, 603-293-4341, www. gunstock.com.
Sept. 28, The No Apologies Comedy Show: Tom Cotter, Tammy Pescatelli and Jim Florentine, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh.com, 603-536-2551.
ONGOING
ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts/CCAC, art, workshops and events, open year-round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www. chocoruaartworks.com
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, 603-783-9511, www.shakers.org
Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, restaurant, music, walking trails, tours, events, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, nature trails open for hiking, 740 Mt. Israel Rd., Center Sandwich, 603-284-6428, www.chapmansanctuaryvisnywoods.com.
Chocorua Lake Basin View Lot, mountain views, benches for seating, free, www.chocorualake.org.
Coffee Hour, 10 – 11 a.m., coffee, tea and snacks, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, Effingham.lib.nh.us.
Country Music Brunch, Sundays, brunch food & music, Beans & Greens Farm Pavilion, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853.
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.
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, 603491-1687, www.gilmantonfarmersmarket.com
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.
Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org
Laverack Nature Trail at Hawkins Brook, nature trail on boardwalk, free, trail starts to the left of Meredith Village Savings Bank, Rte. 25, Meredith, 603279-9015.
League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, handmade crafts and art for sale, workshops, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920. Loon Center, walking trails, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-4765666, www.loon.org
Makers Mill, a variety of workshops, arts and crafts classes and more, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Making Strides, 8 – 9 a.m., drop-in walking for groups or singles, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www.ossipee.recdesk.com.
Market on Main, 3 – 6 p.m., farmers market, every other Wed., through Oct. 2, 115 Main St., Alton, www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-519-8264.
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, 603279-4303, 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.
Molly the Trolley, take tours/rides of Wolfeboro area aboard the fun trolley, info/schedules: 603-569-1080, www.wolfeborotrolley.com
M/S Mount Washington Cruises, narrated cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee, day & evening cruises, M/S Mount Washington, 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, 603-366-BOAT, www.cruisenh.com
New England Racing Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., open Saturdays, 922 NH Rte. 106 N., Loudon, www.NEMSMUSEUM.com
NH Boat Museum, boating exhibits, programs, boat building workshops, 399 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
NH Farm Museum, old-time farm events, tours, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 603-652-7840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org
Newfound Lake Eco-Tours, informative/scientific tours of Newfound Lake, runs until mid-Sept., Newfound Lake Association, www.newfoundlake.org, call for hours/dates of operation: 603-744-8689.
Outdoor Nature-Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-3238510, 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
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.
Sailing Lessons, youth & adult, Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, 25 Davis Rd., Gilford, schedule/pre-register: 603-589-1177, www.lwsa.org
Sculpture Walk, tours of outdoor sculptures around downtown/lakeside areas of Meredith, free, Greater Meredith Program, maps: 603-279-9015.
Sing-Along Night with Jim Tyrell, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Thursdays, Beans & Greens Farm Pavilion, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853.
Song and Jam Circle, 6:30 – 8 p.m., community created jams and song circle, 3rd Monday of each month, Runnells Hall, 25 Deer Hill Rd., Tamworth, free, bring your favorite instruments, Arts Council of Tamworth, 603-584-2712, www.artstamworth.org
Squam Lake Cruises, family/educational cruises to look for loons & wildlife, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, www.nhnature.org, 603968-7194.
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.
That Trivia Guy, 6 – 9 p.m., Wednesdays, individuals or groups play trivia games with host, Beans & Greens Farm Pavilion, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853.
The Market at the Weirs, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays, fresh produce, meats and artisan crafts, through Oct. 5, Weirs Community Park, 49 Lucerne Ave., Weirs Beach, email: bamm-nh.org., www.themarketatweirs.com 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
Annual Harvest Festival at Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center
Prescott Farm invites you to celebrate the heart of autumn at our highly anticipated Annual Harvest Festival on September 14th from 10 AM to 3 PM. The event will be held at 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, NH, and promises a memorable day for visitors of all ages. Admission is free, making it the perfect family outing!
The Harvest Festival is the highlight of our annual events, drawing over 500 attendees to experience a vibrant mix of activities and entertainment on our picturesque 160-acre property. This year’s festival includes Horse- and Tractor-Drawn Wagon Rides: Enjoy a leisurely tour of the farm with our charming wagon rides. Animal Encounters: Meet our friendly farm animals and learn about their roles in our agricultural community. Outdoor Family Yoga: Stretch and breathe in the fresh autumn air with guided family yoga sessions.
Field Games & Hay Jump: Engage in classic field games and bounce to your heart’s content on our hay jump. Natural Crafts & Nature-Based Stories: Let creativity flourish with hands-on crafts and enjoy engaging nature stories. Live Music: Dance to the tunes of the Puckerbrush Band and the O’Brien Clan. Colonial Trades Fair: Explore historical trades and crafts at our colonial fair.
Delicious Food: Savor tasty Beans, Greens Farm, and The Gravy Train treats.
Alice in Wonderland Characters: Be enchanted by whimsical characters brought to life by the Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative.
In addition to the festival activities, visitors are welcome to explore Prescott Farm’s 3 miles of hiking trails, our natural PlayScape, and our heirloom gardens at their leisure. Don’t miss our inaugural Artists of Prescott Farm art exhibit,
curated by Larry Frates, showcasing the creativity and talent within our community.
“We’re thrilled to welcome everyone to our Annual Harvest Festival,” said Jude Hamel, Executive Director. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for families and friends to come together and enjoy all Prescott Farm offers.”
For more information about the Harvest Festival or to learn about volunteering opportunities, please visit www. prescottfarm.org or contact us at (603) 366-5695.
Artful Giving
The Meredith Public Library, 91 Main Street, will hold a Public Art Reception to kick off a month-long event called Artful Giving: Raising FUNds for Teen Room Upgrade from 11 AM to 1 PM on Saturday, September 21 in the library Function Room where light refreshments will be served.
The event will feature the beautiful artwork of local painter Dr. Marc Bard. Following his retirement, Dr. Bard started “Paintings for a Purpose.” For the past few years, Dr. Bard has been donating the sales of his paintings to benefit non-profits across the community. He has chosen the Friends of the Library group as the latest recipient. Funds will be used towards an upgrade of the library’s Teen Room including upgraded furniture and new shelving.
Library Director Erin Apostolos explained the current situation. “Even though we completed our renovation and expansion in 2021, due to budget constraints, there were a few things we had to cut. One was new shelving for the Teen Zone. Our teen librarian Liz
Rohdenberg has been doing an amazing job with outreach in the community, including working with Inter-Lakes Schools to bring a bus stop to the front of the library. Our teen numbers have sky-rocketed with the addition of an after-school program and we find we need to revamp our Teen Zone to accommodate the growth.”
Dr. Bard will be present at the event to greet attendees as well as give a brief presentation on his work and answer questions. “People always ask me how long it takes to complete a painting or how I go about it. I will discuss the process from a blank page to a sketch and the various steps in completing the painting for those who are interested,” he said.
The project is made possible with support from the Meredith Village Savings Bank, Moulton Farm, and the Meredith Frame Shop. Framed originals, matted prints, and notecards will be available for purchase from September 21 at the opening public event until October 18.
