Mt Washington Valley Vibe - Fall 2022

L o c a t e d 3 0 m i n u t e s n o r t h o f N o r t h C o n w a y i n G o r h a m , N H G r a b a 2 0 2 2 P o l a r i s 2 o r 4 s e a t e r , s i d e b y s i d e a n d e x p l o r e o v e r 1 , 0 0 0 m i l e s o f c o n n e c t e d t r a i l s , f e a t u r i n g w i n d t u r b i n e s , b r e a t h t a k i n g v i e w s , l a k e s , a n d w a t e r f a l l s !

T r a i l s i d e l o c a t i o n s , p a r k a n d r i d e h a s s l e f r e e ! S c e n i c , g r o o m e d t r a i l s a n d g r o o m e d t e r r a i n T w o l o c a t i o n s , i n n o r t h e r n V a l l e y ( G o r h a m ) a n d t h e M o u n t W a s h i n g t o n V a l l e y ( F r y e b u r g / C o n w a y )

Side by Sides

Snowmobiles

THOUGHTS

The past few years have brought plenty of twists, turns, and challenges to the Valley’s retail, lodging, and restaurant industries. From fluctuating sales and profits to supply chain bottlenecks and staff shortages, it’s been a tough time—and the road ahead will likely continue to be a tricky one to navigate, to say the least. On top of that, the Valley is seeing a surge of corporate-owned businesses and brand-name storefronts moving in, with seemingly no end in sight. Where historic buildings and privately owned businesses once stood, are now auto parts stores, chain eateries, and fancy brand-named hotels. And I have yet to hear a good reason why we need to have FOUR major supermarket chains within ONE mile of one another. Don’t get me started—I only have so much space on this page.

My point is this: We all know the economic benefits of shopping locally. If we want this community to continue to develop in a healthy manner, we have to offer something that other communities do not. Our local, privately owned business scene is something that’s unique to this Valley, and it provides quality and conve

nience for our visitors … and residents. Local shopping is not only crucial to our growth, but the success of these businesses attracts other entrepreneurs and leads to more jobs and revenue re-circulating throughout the region.

Here in the Valley, we’re well-known for our historic inns, grand hotels, and quaint bed and breakfasts. But how long will they last if our visitors choose cook ie-cutter convenience over charm and character? Our Valley Original restaurants offer over 25 independently owned dining establishments with unique recipes pre pared fresh daily, offering what a true dining experience should be like. Turn to page 49 for a complete list of those flying a yellow flag.

The White Mountain Independents is a group of privately owned retail stores that truly puts the customer first by offering a more personal connection, exten sive product knowledge, and unique inventory you might not find at national chain stores. Look for these stores flying the blue flags outside their shops around town.

I’m not saying that you shouldn’t shop anywhere else. There are certainly some really awesome big-name stores and outlets in town, and we all know that shop ping online has its perks. But maybe we can remind ourselves that if this commu nity is going to be sustainable, it needs help from each and every one of us.

I’m not going to end this by saying, “Shop locally!” But I am going to ask you to consider the impact our singular and collective actions have in truly making a difference. Our retailers, inn owners, chefs, farmers, artists, entrepreneurs, and all the rest who make this community what it is, are 100% committed and invested in this Valley … and they could use our support now more than ever.

Dan Houde dan@wiseguycreative.com

How long will our inns last if our visitors choose cookie-cutter convenience over charm and character?

WRITERS PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mike Cherim, North Conway, NH

Mike is a hiker and skier, and a WMNF volunteer, lending some of his time to search and rescue and to trail maintenance. When Mike isn’t busy with those volunteer pursuits, his guide/outfitter com pany, Redline Guiding, keeps him and his merry band of guides pretty busy, offering guests plenty to do in all seasons.

Clem McAuliffe, Bartlett, NH

As owner of Vista Bev & Market in Intervale, Clem loves beer. He loves talking about beer, reading about beer, writing about beer, and of course, drinking beer. All who enter the store quickly understand the benefit of asking, “Clem, what am I drinking today?”

Dr. Peter Crane, Bartlett, NH

Dr. Crane is the curator of Mount Washington Obser vatory’s Gladys Brooks Me morial Library and enjoys cross-country skiing and year-round hiking. He also serves as a volunteer trail maintainer for Mount Washington’s historic Raymond Path.

Abby King, Fryeburg, ME

Abby King is the conserva tion director for the Upper Saco Valley Land Trust. After thru-hiking the AT and PCT, she has now settled down in Fryeburg with her husband and fluffy cat. Abby also works as a Regis tered Maine guide, leading sea kayaking trips in Casco Bay and backcountry ski tours in the White Mountains.

Matt Maloney, Jackson, NH

Matt is a teacher naturalist at Tin Mountain Conserva tion Center in Albany, New Hampshire. Formerly the Adirondack Mountain Club’s coordinator for interpretive programs, he has a degree in environmental education from Antioch in Keene, NH.

Jesse Wright, Conway, NH

Jesse is a field specialist in agricultural business man agement at UNH Cooper ative Extension. She works with farms throughout the state to build strong business skills, develop net works, and connect with the resources and expertise that bolster success. She also loves to explore the White Mountain National Forest and Saco River with her pup, Tadhg.

Lily Hartman, Seabrook, NH Lily is a writer residing on the NH Seacoast who enjoys writing about health and outdoor recreation. She spends most weekends hiking the White Mountains and is part of Hiking Bud dies NH 48, a hiking Facebook group. She also enjoys blogging about her adventures and going on trail runs.

Anna Mangum, Jackson, NH Anna is the assistant editor of Decor Maine magazine. Born in Atlanta, she fell in love with New England after studying creative writing and literature at Bates College—and hasn’t left since. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her puppy, running, and soaking up water and sun at various river spots in New Hampshire.

Jaimie Crawford, Fryeburg, ME Jaimie perpetuates the MWV Chamber’s MWV Pledge, Hire a Guide, and Learn from a Local, Like a Local programs that have values rooted in impact management, sustainable recreation, and community support—values that Jaimie whole-heartedly believes in. She grew up in Fryeburg, Maine, and feels so thankful every day she had access to the outdoors growing up.

Molly Mundy, Jackson, NH Molly Mundy is an artist and climber currently living in Jackson, NH. She became a member of the board of Friends of the Ledges in 2020, and since then has been eagerly finding ways to organize and participate in stewardship efforts at her local cliffs.

Mike Morin, Glen, NH

Mike Morin is the Northeast regional director for the Access Fund. A life-long con servationist, Mike has spent the past 18 years working in roles that have allowed him to steward and protect outdoor spaces across the United States. A native of Bradley, ME, he now resides in Glen, NH with his wife Amanda.

Ed Wogan, Freedom, NH

Ed sits on the Freedom Village Store Board of Direc tors, he and his wife Susan split time between Free dom and scenic Cape Ann. Ed contributes to various magazines, textbooks, pod casts, and webinars and is an avid outdoors person. He enjoys trail running, hiking in the Whites, kayaking, and winter sports.

- J.P.

- Liam Byrer,

Olivia Saunders, Conway, NH Olivia works for UNH Cooperative Extension in the food & agriculture program as a field special ist. Olivia works directly with vegetable, tree fruit, and small fruit farmers in NH on issues such as soil fertility management, pest identifi cation, cover cropping, organic production, and challenges associated with new and beginning farming. info@mwvvibe.com.

IMMEDIATELY STEP UP YOUR PHOTO GAME!

1. Think in layers. The best photo tips typically include adding elements, or layers, to your photographs. One-dimensional shots of a mountain scene or a covered bridge can be nice, but step up your game by approaching a scene and seeking interesting objects to include in the foreground like birch trees or hanging branches.

2. Get in tune with the weather. Watch for low overnight temperatures. Cool mornings in the fall mean that the warm summer waters will produce fog. Watch for rainstorms moving out and be ready for the misty remnants left behind by the warming sunshine. Focus your camera on an old foliage-covered tree and recompose to let the fog create the rest of the photograph. If there’s the possibility of snow in the forecast overnight, be ready at sunrise for a rare treat. Remember to always add something to the foreground.

3. Use silhouettes to add dimension and create contrast. Find twisted tree branch es or a broken-down old fence—or any oddly shaped object—then position your camera so the object is in the foreground of your photo, perhaps just off to one side. Now recompose and look for a colorful background scene to create a cool silhou ette. Adjust your exposure accordingly to darken the foreground object. Once again, always try to create layers in your photography and stay away from flat shots.

FAVORITE DRIVING TIP - (PLEASE RESPECT PRIVATE PROPERTY)

Head out to any back road in the White Mountains, away from the crowds. Park and throw your prepared camera bag over your shoulders and walk away from the road.

The businesses below are members of White Mountain Independents!Learn more at www.whitemountainindependents.com.

VENO’S SPECIALTY FOODS AND MEATS

Veno’s makes meal times easy! Everything is made in-house with the best ingredients, including beef, chicken, lamb, and pork with no hormones or antibiotics, that are pasture-raised, grass-fed, and humanely harvested.

All marinades are made in-house, too, with fresh ingredients, and local favorites include Ledge tips, Moats tips, Tuckerman’s chicken, and garlic and herb chicken. Veno’s offers a large selection of chef-made, in-house gourmet foods that are easy to heat and eat at home, such as chicken pot pie, shepherd’s pie, soups, lasagna, meatballs, chicken curry, and Korean beef.

Headed to a gathering? Build your charcuterie board with local sala mi and cheese, grab a spinach artichoke dip, or a Buffalo chicken dip. At Veno’s, something is always cooking and fills the air in the shop with wonderful aromas. Whether you’re vacationing, local, or just driving through town, make this a place to stop and stock up on food made with local ingredients and love. You will be excited to create your own restau rant-quality meal.

Food makes a great gift, and they sell gift cards! Do you love to carve pumpkins? Check out their annual “Carving for a Cause” event, held every October.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Butcher shop

• “Gourmet to Go” heat and eat

• Locally owned and operated

• Local, food, meat, and love combined

For more information, call (603) 662-0615 or visit www.venosnh.com.

SOYFIRE CANDLE BATH & BODY

Come in and Sniff Around! That is the motto at Soyfire Candle Bath & Body. Located in a spacious, well-scented store in the heart of downtown North Conway, Soyfire offers over 75-plus different scents of 100 percent soy can dles. These candles are soot- and toxin-free, with a longer burn time than other types of candles, and cost less than most brand-name candles. Check out the Fragrance of the Month and save 20 percent off regular prices, including the best-selling fragrances for fall: “Mcintosh Apple” and “Fall Harvest” during September and October. Follow up with “Apple Cider” in November and “Snowed In” during December. Soyfire’s Bath & Body section offers a great variety of all-natural products and accessories to pamper yourself or gift to a friend: shower bursts, bath bombs, and goat milk soap and lotions in all fragrances. Rubber duckies, back scratchers, and eye masks are also among the accessories offered. There is something for everyone and a perfect place for gift giving. The store is open year round (check the Facebook page for up-to-date hours). Soyfire offers online ordering with free shipping on orders over $85. Time to stop and smell the candles!

For more information, call (603) 356-8969 or visit www.soyfire.com. SPOTLIGHT

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• 100% Soy Candles

• All-natural bath & body products

• On-line/free shipping options

• Locally owned and operated

What Started as an Experiment Endures for 90 Years ... and Counting

By Peter Crane

The previous observatory building on the summit of Mount Washington is shown here in the 1940s.

All photos courtesy of Mount Washington Observatory

Itwas in October 1932 when a new White Mountains institution was es tablished. However, its founders didn’t know it would last decades, let alone into the next century.

Mount Washington Observatory (MWOBS) was seen as a short-term proj ect with an important, but time-limited, mission. The timing of the enterprise was especially important since it served as a contributor to a worldwide scientific ex ercise, the International Polar Year (IPY), devoted to the study of high latitudes and altitudes. There was a keen interest in learning how weather systems interacted with high terrain, and a recognition that full-time mountain stations gave detailed information that aircraft or balloons could only briefly sample.

Mount Washington was the only mountain station in North America to partner in the IPY. To add to the value of the summit observations, parallel, comparative observations were made at Pinkham Notch by MWOBS co-founder Joe Dodge and at the Mount Washington Cog Railway’s Base Station by caretaker Charles Buckner.

The team that made up the first MWOBS crew numbered four: Dodge, Bob Monahan, Alex McKenzie, and Sal Pagliuca. Dodge was best known as huts manager for the AMC. Monahan, a Dartmouth graduate, received a master’s in forestry from Yale. He and Dodge were the principal organizers of the enterprise. The spirit of mountain adventure was an important impetus for their daring project. The challenge of spending an extended period atop the Northeast’s highest peak, and doing valuable work there, was undeniably attractive. And like their predecessors, Dodge, Monahan, and

for investigating alpine weather were evolving with the field of meteorological science. Using sounding balloons added a new significance to observations from the mountaintop. In the 20th century’s first decades, new technologies including powered aviation and radio made under standing of weather more compelling and

Academy of Science, the academy made a generous contribution, which allowed even this challenge to be surmounted.

One of the academy’s members, Henry S. Shaw, was also intrigued by the occupation of the summit, especially for radio research, and became an important donor in the earliest years.

their colleagues were intrigued by the severity of Mount Washington’s weather and wished to be immersed in it, to document it, and learn more about it for the cause of science.

They benefitted from the enthusiasm of Dr. Charles F. Brooks, director of Blue Hill Observatory, which supplied weather instruments and training. The tools

provided new opportunities for its study.

As with earlier summit occupations, having sufficient funds for the unavoid able expenses of a mountaintop opera tion was a serious need. The Depression years did not make fundraising an easy task. No government funds were avail able. But after Dodge gave a presentation on the plans to the New Hampshire

The Mount Washington Observatory, like the IPY, was intended to be a shortterm enterprise. But, unlike the IPY, the MWOBS continued. Weather observa tions continued on a daily basis, research projects filled the hours of the staff, and regular communications with the public helped foster better understanding and respect for the sometimes harsh, but also

From left to right, Alex McKenzie, Bob Monahan, Joe Dodge, and Sal Pagliuca made up the first Observa tory crew to spend an extended time atop the Northeast’s highest peak.

The challenge of spending an extended period atop the Northeast’s highest peak, and doing valuable work there, was undeniably attractive. And like their predecessors, Dodge, Monahan, and their colleagues were intrigued by the severity of Mount Washington’s weather and wished to be immersed in it, to document it, and learn more about it for the cause of science.

fragile, alpine environment.

“After one winter, there was no good reason to stop; and there was excellent reason for continuing, for the data obtained were proving of value in forecasting,” wrote Brooks. As might

Today’s Mount Washington weather observers write moun tain forecasts, maintain the 90-year data set, and research the atmosphere, helping scientific, aviation, and outdoor lifestyle communities understand the unique relationship between

be expected, the 1934 World Record Wind clocked by Observa tory staff only added to public interest in their work, and to the determination to continue it.

All of that started—remarkably—90 years ago. Many things have changed on Mount Washington since October 15, 1932. Buildings have changed—including those that have housed the Observatory—and patterns of summit use have changed.

The challenges of maintaining a remote weather and research station in a remarkably harsh location are certainly still with us. These include the logistical challenges related to transportation and other mountain operations, the need to raise funds to support the Observatory activities, and the work required to recruit, train, and retain talented staff.

Just as in the early days of the Observatory, the kindness and generosity of many supporters, including private com panies on and private individuals off the mountain, allow the nonprofit organization to continue its important work.

weather and high terrain in the White Mountains. For nine decades, the Observatory has maintained one of North Ameri ca’s longest-running alpine climate records.

The quest continues today as the MWOBS overcomes extremes to ask the unanswered questions, at a place unlike any other, where the weather meets Mount Washington.

Dr. Peter Crane is the curator of Mount Washington Observato ry’s Gladys Brooks Memorial Library, which is loaded with books, maps, photos, and other material relating to the Observatory, Mount Washington, and the White Mountains.

Celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2022, Mount Washington Observatory is a private, nonprofit, member-supported insti tution with a mission to advance understanding of the natural systems that create the Earth’s weather and climate. For more information, visit www.mountwashington.org.

LEFT: Early weather observers launch a weather balloon from the summit. RIGHT: The “Heated No. 2” anemometer became the main wind sensor on the summit in 1933. It is most famous for recording The Big Wind of 231 mph on April 12, 1934, which still stands as the fastest surface wind speed ever observed by a human.

Just as in the early days of the Observatory, the kindness and generosity of many supporters, including private companies on and private individuals off the mountain, allow the nonprofit organization to continue its important work.

NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation is ex cited to announce the combination of two historic and critical support groups. Friends of Tuckerman Ravine and the White Mountain Avalanche Education Foundation have joined forces as the Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation. The mission statement is to support the Mount Washington Avalanche Center by enhancing and expanding avalanche education opportunities, advocating for responsible and sustainable backcountry recreation in New Hampshire’s unique alpine ecosystems, and expanding the reach of US Forest Service avalanche forecasts and messages.

For over two decades, Friends of Tuckerman Ravine has supported the Mount Washington Avalanche Center (MWAC) through funding, volunteer hours, outreach and conservation efforts, and community events. For the last 10 years, the White Mountain Avalanche Education Foundation has supported MWAC through educational programs, events, and funding. Both groups have been absolutely critical to the success of the Mount Wash ington Avalanche Center, and this merger enhances the ability for the non-profit pillar of MWAC to provide financial support to the avalanche forecasting and search and rescue programs, while also offering historic events, outreach, and educational opportu nities to the greater backcountry community.

Stay tuned this fall for more information and for opportuni ties to support the backcountry community. Exciting upcoming opportunities made possible by Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation include the following events.

ESAW 2022

The annual Eastern Snow and Avalanche Workshop is back for its 12th year! This year, attendees can expect virtual presenta tions on the evenings of November 17 and 18. In-person clinics

will be available for those interested on the morning of Satur day, November 19. For more information about the schedule, the speaker line-up, the in-person skills clinics, and to register, visit www.esaw.org.

Winter Backcountry Kickoff Party

On Saturday, November 19, we will be hosting our first in-per son social event since 2019! Please join the Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation, USFS avalanche forecasters, and speakers from the Eastern Snow and Avalanche Workshop at Ledge Brewing in Intervale, NH for a social gathering, gear tents, silent auction, and refreshments to kick off the 2022/23 skiing and climbing season! 3:30 to 8 p.m.

Skills Development at the BCA Beacon Park at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center

Thanks to a special donation from the Dartmouth Wilderness and Austere Medicine Program, a free, publicly available beacon training park will be available again this winter at the south side of the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center parking lot. Look out for skills clinics being offered by MWACF this winter! Please share and respect this free community resource. The Appala chian Mountain Club is generous to allow us to use this area of the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center for the training park: please yield to their groups and employees if the space is needed for AMC programming.

For updates and additional information, visit Mount Washing ton Avalanche Center Foundation online at www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org.

Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation

Announcing the Combination of Two Historic and Critical Support Groups

NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT

By Brian Post

Topping out at an elevation of 6,288 feet, Mount Washington is the tallest mountain in the Northeast and domi nates the view from many locations in the Mt. Washington Valley. The mountain is home to a unique alpine zone that represents less than 0.07 percent of the New Hampshire landscape. The views are reminiscent of bigger mountain ranges, the alpine flowers are stunning, and the weather is world famous. The alpine zone on Mount Washington is rare and fragile, and has been ranked as Tier 1 Highest Ranked Habitat by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.

Mount Washington is accessible to all via trails, a road, and a train. People

from all walks of life have felt the wonder of being on the highest mountain in the Northeast. The experience is popular, and traffic is increasing, putting pressure on this sensitive area. Alpine vegetation and soils are easily damaged by human activ ity, and the regrowth of disturbed areas may take decades or more.

The pressure on the mountain intensified in late 2016 when the Mount Washington Railway Company (The Cog) proposed Skyline Lodge, a luxury hotel in the alpine zone. This development threat marked the beginning of Protect Mount Washington, a call-to-action campaign to protect Mount Washington’s unique alpine zone from harmful development. The campaign led to the formation of Keep the Whites Wild, a non-profit organization based in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, with a mission to preserve and protect the diverse biology, natural aesthetic, and intrinsic value of New England’s White Mountain region. The founding members of Keep the Whites Wild are from Coös and Carroll

counties, and include climbing guides, writers, naturalists, and photographers. While opposing The Cog’s proposed hotel in 2017, Keep the Whites Wild key activities and accomplishments included:

• Retaining and utilizing legal support with a New Hampshire law firm that specializes in environmental and landuse law

• Collaboration with other conser vation organizations, including the March 2017 release of a letter to the Coös County Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment, opposing The Cog’s proposed hotel

• Networking with scientists, outdoor companies, and the general public

• Attending a variety of Coös County and State of New Hampshire meetings related to the proposed hotel

• Holding public outreach and fundrais ing events throughout New England

The Cog never formally announced a final status of Skyline Lodge, but recent news articles would indicate the project has

been abandoned. Opposition from envi ronmental groups and the general public were cited as major factors.

Keep the Whites Wild continues to collaborate with conservation organiza

Mount Washington campaign. Reaching the summit of Mount Washington is an exhilarating experi ence, whether done by trail, road, or train. That experience is shaped by the

Reaching the summit of Mount Washington is an exhilarating experience, whether done by trail, road, or train. That experience is shaped by the views and unique habitat of the alpine zone. It’s an environment and an experience worth protecting.

tions, mountain clubs, activist groups, and individuals compelled to protect alpine zones in the White Mountains. The Protect Mount Washington campaign is ongoing in 2022, now focusing on a new development proposal from The Cog and the master planning process on the summit of Mount Washington. New development in the alpine zone has nega tive environmental, aesthetic, and public safety impacts. Curbing development sprawl and prioritizing the health of the alpine zone are key aspects of the Protect

views and unique habitat of the alpine zone. It’s an environment and an experi ence worth protecting.

Visit the Keep the Whites Wild website to learn more about development pressure on Mount Washington and how to help preserve the alpine zone.

keepthewhiteswild.org contact@keepthewhiteswild.org facebook.com/keepthewhiteswild

A hiker takes in the view of the Northern Presidential Range and the Great Gulf Wilderness near the Gulfside Trail on the northwest side of Mount Washington. Photos courtesy of KTWW.

FITNESS/HEALTH

By Trish Murray

Stay Proactive to Beat the Pain

What a glorious time of year for outdoor recreation! In addition to the gorgeous colors and a slight decrease in mosquitoes, fall brings slightly cooler temperatures for running, hiking, climbing, and biking. It’s all fun and games … until pain slows you down.

Asan osteopathic manipulative medicine specialist, I see patients every day in my practice get de railed by pain. In some cases, they have experienced an injury. In many cases, they are diagnosed with osteoarthri tis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, which is the most common type of arthritis. OA happens due to wear and tear over time that affects the cartilage cushioning the joints. This may occur as a natural part of aging, but it is also exacerbated by injuries that throw off the balance within our structure.

When we are injured, we inadver tently create compensations. The longer we continue to push through an injury, the more imbalances we accumulate over time. For example, imagine you’re out for a run or a hike and twist your right knee on an uneven piece of the trail. You wince momentarily at the first instance of pain and then brush it off as no big deal. You continue your run and barely notice that you are slightly favoring the injured side, putting a bit more weight on your left leg. Over the next couple of days, your knee is throbbing a bit now and then, but you don’t really pay it much attention. You continue your normal level of activities,

including your daily run. If it gets worse, you take an over-the-counter anti-inflam matory and get on with your day. After all, you’re only limping a little bit and the pain really isn’t that bad. A few weeks and many running miles later, you start to wonder why your left hip is bothering you and your lower back hurts. By the time you decide to make an appointment to get evaluated, your knee is just one of the many connected body parts that seem to be barking at you.

Repetitive movements, whether from exercise, work activities, or tasks of daily living can contribute to the development or deterioration of the joints. Unfortu nately, some wear and tear is simply a function of time. Add the accumulation of injuries to the mix, and no wonder our joints hurt more as we age. While we can’t prevent ourselves from getting older, we can do our best to age graceful ly by taking care of our bodies. There are several things you can do to realign and maintain your bones and joints so that you can continue to work and play as long as you’d like!

The fact that bones and joints are subject to overuse injuries may imply that our best course of action is inaction.

Photo by WiseguyCreative.com

However, the opposite is true. Motion is lotion for our bodies. Regular exer cise increases bone density, muscle strength, and connective tissue mobil ity. Even for those suffering from OA, regular exercise can help alleviate pain by keeping joints from getting stiff. In addition, strength training and weight

ing exercises are essential for bone health because they promote the formation of new bone. There have been many studies in which older men and women who performed weight-bearing exercises showed increases in bone mineral density, bone strength, and bone size, as well as reductions in markers of

resistance exercises are important to build bone density. As we age, we tend to naturally lose muscle mass and bone density. By being proactive with weight resistance training, we can continue to maintain muscle and bone over the course of our lives.

Strength training and weight-bear

bone turnover and inflammation.

In addition to strength training, two of the most overlooked tools in your athletic toolbox are stretching and my ofascial release. Ensuring your connec tive tissue is healthy and well hydrated is an important piece of maintaining joint health. Stretching helps to unwind

Repetitive movements, whether from exercise, work activities, or tasks of daily living can contribute to the development or deterioration of the joints. Unfortunately, some wear and tear is simply a function of time. Add the accumulation of injuries to the mix, and no wonder our joints hurt more as we age.

Photo

tight tissue and is an absolute must when it comes to recovery, rehab, and injury prevention. Myofascial release techniques are used to alleviate tension and maintain the health of the fascia, which surrounds everything in our bodies.

Keeping at a healthy body weight is also helpful in preventing joint pain, as extra weight can put stress on joints, especially feet, ankles, knees, and hips.

Eating a healthy diet that avoids any in dividual food sensitivities and managing your blood sugar level are other ways you can keep your bones and joints healthy. If a person is eating foods they are sen sitive to on a regular basis, it will drive inflammation and promote degeneration. Studies have also shown that high blood sugar levels can put you at greater risk of getting OA.

As an osteopathic manipulative med icine specialist, I see people when things have gotten out of whack, to the point that they are in pain and need a physical adjustment. Time and time again, I teach my patients basic stretches to help them maintain the corrections I have made so they can treat themselves in between appointments. In general, those who implement these stretches daily need to see me far less frequently than those who do not. Even those with diagnosed OA are able to stay active without debilitating pain. When it comes to the health of your joints and tissues, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! It’s never too late to begin an exercise regimen, but you must be sensible in your approach,

especially if you are new to exercise or you haven’t exercised in a while. If you are nursing a current injury or suffer from OA, consult your physician to get the proper recommendations.

Dr. Trish Murray is a highly accomplished physician who has been certified in internal medicine, osteopathic manipulative medicine, energy medicine, and functional medicine. She is the founder of Discover Health Functional Medicine Center in Conway, New Hampshire, a partner in the Discover Health Movement Membership, and co-owner of Valley Smoothie Shop. Dr. Trish takes an indi vidualized, holistic approach to health to help you take control of your health and transform your life.

For more information, visit www.discoverhealthfmc.com. Discover Health Functional Medicine Center • (603) 447-3112

IN THE HEART OF THE WHITE MOUNTAINS

Situated on beautiful Crystal Lake our camp is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty where girls come to switch off their cell phones & screens. We offer a wide range of activities from arts & crafts, lake swimming, boating, ropes, drama & more.

CAMPERS ARE EMOTIONALLY & PSYCHOLOGICALLY SAFE

Gill & Graham our camp Directors are parents of 4 children & know every camper personally. We put the mental health & wellbeing of all our campers at the very heart of what we do. Campers are safe and happy at Waukeela.

ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP & SISTERHOOD

Waukeela is steeped in tradition with a rich culture and heritage for helping young girls become strong, independent women. Generations of Waukeela girls now create a world-wide community of alumnae.

North Conway’s Very Own Summer Camp

Located on beautiful Crystal Lake in Eaton, NH!

The Mt. Washington Valley Pledge

By Jaimie Crawford

According to NH’s Department of Tourism and Travel, over four million visitors make their way to Mt. Washington Valley each year. It’s not lost on the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, the impact that comes with that much of a footprint.

Mt.

Washington Valley is lucky to call the White Moun tains home. A valley nestled at the base of New En gland’s highest peak, Mount Washington, and settled amongst 800,000 acres of White Mountain National Forest, visitors and locals alike can discover over 2,000 miles of trails; 48 4,000-foot hikes; a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and Saco and Androscoggin rivers; waterfalls; scenic over looks; fishing holes, and more.

With everything the White Mountains and Mt. Washing ton Valley have to offer, it’s not hard to understand why they have become destinations loved by so many who live, visit,

and recreate here.

And loved by many they are. According to NH’s Depart ment of Tourism and Travel, over four million visitors make their way to Mt. Washington Valley each year. It’s not lost on the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce (MWVCC), the impact that comes with that much of a footprint. Without the area’s natural resources—from the mountains to the forest to the lakes and rivers—that surround Mt. Washington Valley, telling the story of why one should visit the area or move and make a life here, becomes increasingly difficult.

As a regional chamber, and 600-plus member organi

zation that serves over 20 towns between Maine and New Hampshire, the MWVCC’s mission focuses on marketing the Mt. Washington Valley area as the premier New England vacation destination, and fostering a business cli mate that promotes growth and collaboration in member communities while protecting the area’s natural resources.

The MWVCC has so much equity in the latter part of its mission; it understands that without its natural resources, the Valley would lose much of what makes it exist as a destination in the first place.

In support of this, the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce created the MWV Pledge.

This 10-principle responsibility code encompasses safety precautions and responsibility tenets that cover how

to preserve the land and trails; how to treat one another in shared spaces; how to protect the state’s wildlife and the indigenous flora and fauna, as well as how to preserve the state’s waterways. Visitors and locals are encouraged to visit www.mwvpledge.com, sign their name to the pledge, and promise to preserve and protect the White Mountains and its natural resources so we can enjoy them for years to come.

The MWVCC is also an organization that is proud to collaborate with the community it serves. It has worked in tandem with individual towns: organizations such as The Valley Originals, business owners, farmers, guiding outfit ters, non-profits, and others in perpetuating the ethos of the MWV Pledge.

Read from five representatives who share what living

and working in Mt. Washington Valley means to them, and why signing the MWV Pledge and abiding by its principles is so important when it comes to doing all we can to protect and preserve everything we all love about the Mt. Washington Valley and the White Mountains.

THE VALLEY ORIGINALS, WRITTEN BY GENN ANZALDI, J-TOWN DELI

lots and feeding on trash. We also appreciate folks taking the time to properly dispose of their own trash and not littering in parking lots and other public areas. This seemingly innocent, (yet illegal) act can cause unintended ramifications. Bears eat trash that’s not properly disposed of, causing them to become dependent on this food source, instead of foraging in the wild where it is safe for them, and us.

The Valley Originals also calls on principle two regularly: “I Will Treat Others with Respect.” This aspect of the pledge has been especially important to us all during COVID, and beyond. Local businesses have been hit hard when it comes to staffing shortages and supply chain issues. We consider the staff we do have as extended family, and hope visitors treat them as such. Each restaurant is doing its best to make sure its guests have great service, delicious meals, and a memorable experience. Be ing kind to each other can make a huge difference for everyone.

MEAG POIRIER, OWNER, WILD ROOTS

The Valley Originals, a group of 25 locally owned and operated restaurants throughout the Valley, strives to help keep our com munity a place locals want to live, as well as a place people want to visit over and over again. With that as part of its core values, the Valley Originals wholeheartedly support the MWV Pledge!

As a band of restaurant owners, there are several opportu nities to support this initiative. One interesting way is through an intersection of the MWV Pledge’s third and fourth principles;

One interesting way is through an intersection of the MWV Pledge’s third and fourth principles; “I Will Trash My Trash,” and “I Will Keep the Wildlife Wild.” All of The Valley Original restaurants use bear-proof trash containers. This keeps bears from camping out in restaurant parking lots and feeding on trash. We also appreciate folks taking the time to properly dispose of their own trash and not littering in parking lots and other public areas.

“I Will Trash My Trash,” and “I Will Keep the Wildlife Wild.” All of The Valley Original restaurants use bear-proof trash contain ers. This keeps bears from camping out in restaurant parking

I’m Meag Poirier, a small business owner, trail runner, and hiker living full-time in Gorham, New Hampshire. These mountains and trails humble me and provide a daily reminder that our actions matter.

Gorham is right in the middle of the MWV and Androscog gin Valley with direct access to hundreds of miles of trails for a variety of user groups, all within a few miles of our Main Street village. This is both an incredible privilege and a great responsi bility for the people who choose to recreate here.

Creating thoughtful momentum around sustainable tour ism hinges on our collective ability to preserve and protect the natural assets that surround us, to treat others with kindness, and to remain aware of our responsibility to recreate safely. As locals, we must stay actively engaged in our community’s trajectory, ask questions, speak up, and do our best to embrace and educate visitors, one conversation at a time. As visitors, we must remember that real people live and work here seven days a week, often directly adjacent to the places where we play and vacation, and though we are welcome, we must be aware of our impact and share this space respectfully. Embodying the principles of the MWV pledge, among many other initiatives, is, in part, how we make it happen. A sustainable recreation economy is possible.

Photo by Corey David Photography & Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

Photo by Meag Poirier

The White Mountains and Saco River have been my playground for 30 years. I will never forget the first time I rented a kayak from Canoe King and strapped it on the roof of my Firebird and headed to First Bridge. I was hooked!

I feel fortunate to live in a four-season playground. The community and natural resources are why I live here, but COVID-19 greatly impacted them. With the increase in new users of the area’s trails, lakes, and rivers, the simple mantras that the MWV Pledge teaches, such as “I Will Trash

We provide the opportunity for these families to create lasting memories on the Saco River. It’s important to me to join a community effort in welcoming visitors, but also educating them. At Saco River Tubing Center, the staff informs everyone on acceptable river behavior, they provide guests with trash bags, and talk about the Saco River Watershed and how it supplies drinking water to over 200,000 people.

My Trash,” or “I Will Take Only Pictures, and Leave Only Footprints,” helps to educate visitors on how delicate the Valley’s natural ecosystem is.

As a business owner, I rely on new visitors to help grow New Hampshire’s outdoor economy. I provide the opportunity for these families to create lasting memories on the Saco River. It’s important to me to join a community effort in welcoming visitors, but also educating them. At Saco River Tubing Center, the staff informs everyone on acceptable river behavior, they provide guests with trash bags, and talk about the Saco River Watershed and how it supplies drinking water to over 200,000 people. The MWV Pledge is a helpful conversation starter on why all of these things are important to ensuring the Saco River is around for generations to come.

PETE

Photo by Peter Gagne

SARAH DAVIS, OWNER, DAVIS NATURAL PRODUCE, AND WRITTEN ON BEHALF OF THE FARMERS JAKE DAVIS, CELIA, AND RICK WILCOX

KEITH MOON, LEAD GUIDE AND EASTERN MOUNTAIN SPORTS CLIMBING SCHOOL MANAGER

As community members and farm owners of Davis Natural Pro duce, we rely on the Mt. Washington Valley’s natural resources to grow food for the community. Being a Valley resident brings a source of pride and deep respect for our unique natural landscape, but there is also a sense of responsibility to protect where we live. This is why we align so well with the principles of the MWV Pledge.

Our farm is open to the public and has a unique landscape, as it abuts the White Mountain National Forest. Accessed by the scenic Kancamagus Highway, it runs along the Swift River, which allows us to grow food using river bottom soil. We

Mt. Washington Valley is constantly reinventing itself for me. I can ski, hike, and mountain bike, and sometimes do all three in one day. Access to take on every activity is unparalleled in the Valley.

It’s that access, though, that is a real paradox. Being a drivable distance from so many major metropolises in New England, and beyond, means that Mt. Washington Valley sees a lot of people. Forty percent of the U.S. population can drive to Mt. Washington Valley in a single 24-hour drive … and be at a trailhead. Having some of the most easily accessed trailheads means taking a harder look at the initiatives needed to maintain and protect them.

I love to tell people that there are roughly 2,000 trails outside of the well-known and iconic Tuckerman Ravine Trail. Finding new trails to explore to help disperse the number of people determined to climb them is a huge part of resource management as a tourism destination. As a visitor or a local looking to head into the forest, consider hiring a guide. Call on the expertise of those who have been guiding for years in the White Mountain National Forest. A guide can help you find those hidden gems in the forest’s trail network, and they can keep you safe while doing so.

So many tenets of The MWV Pledge touch on critical trail management initiatives. It’s a great place to start when talking about natural resource protection. When it comes to recreating in them, consider giving a guide a call!

enjoy the majestic backdrop of the mountains as we farm, and regular sightings of wildlife that roams free on our farm. The commitment of the Valley’s residents and guests to the MWV Pledge helps protect these resources we rely on and, more than anything, profoundly care for.

The ethos of a farmer requires that one be a participant, not just an observer in nature, and perpetuates the interconnected ness of one’s actions and the impact on the environment. It is a farmer’s responsibility to support and advocate a sense of duty and awareness for all who venture into nature. We hope you will join us in this effort to be kind, aware, and influence others to preserve and respect the Valley’s natural resources—starting with signing the MWV Pledge.

Of course, when you visit an area, you want to immerse your self in the local community. And we want you to feel like Mt. Washington Valley is your home, too. The more it becomes a part of you, the more invested you’ll become in our community. We want you to feel a sense of pride when you visit the area; support its locals, and care for the Valley’s natural resources. Get closer to the culture of Mt. Washington Valley, and become one of its insiders by signing the MWV Pledge.

Find your own special gems in the White Mountains by hiring a guide and spending time at their favorite river spots and on their favorite trails. Meet local characters, shop in stores that locals love, and over time you’ll find your own favorite special gems in the White Mountains.

When you do, you’ll want to join the others who pledge to care for this forest to ensure it sticks around for years to come! For additional information, visit www.mwvpledge.com. Sign your name to the MWV Pledge, today!

The ethos of a farmer requires that one be a participant, not just an observer in nature, and perpetuates the interconnectedness of one’s actions and the impact on the environment. It is a farmer’s responsibility to support and advocate a sense of duty and awareness for all who venture into nature.

Photo by Corey David Photography & Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

Photo by Sarah Davis

A Closer Look at Art in the Valley

By JP Goodwin

The art community hung on during the shutdown—some cloistered in studios, solitary yet creative. Other groups continued en plein air, socially distanced to paint, sculpt, blow, weave and photograph for the few venues which afforded you, the public, access to their galleries.

In 2022, the community of creativity has truly come back to life with popular arts events, exhibits, and paint-outs in the Valley and beyond. We artists are alive and motivated, working to bring you new and exciting pieces.

The creative process is different for most of us and tends to be a solitary endeavor. But producing work alone tends to narrow our focus and close down some creative options much more than working together from time to time. The interplay of our community members, what may appear to others as artsy banter, is such a valuable experience, often opening new avenues to explore in whatever medium strikes our fancy. The dynamic of painting, sketching, photographing, and observing together, sharing images and insights with each other, enriches the experience and heightens the senses. Subsequent work benefits from these interactions; so we are all energized by coming together to create new work for you.

Appreciators should enjoy a day of gallery hopping (see sidebar for loca tions of galleries) with friends, a lei surely lunch, and maybe a performance or artist’s reception in the evening. The experience is transporting, a stress evap orator, and a lovely mini-vacation so close to home. Feeling pressure to purchase if one enters a gallery should not enter the picture. We who are involved with creat ing, exhibiting, and selling the arts, value each patron who crosses our threshold. To enter an exhibit space and truly enjoy the work presented, take time to im merse yourself in the pieces that intrigue

you … this is why we are there. We strive to provide you this visual respite from the hectic life most of us lead—to relax, rejuvenate, and breathe in the beauty.

If you choose to purchase a piece to enjoy or to gift, that is a bonus for all of us. But please, do stop by often to browse at your own pace, ask questions (there are no silly ones), and drink in the images we have created for you, whether they be in glass, wood, fiber, paint, graph ite, pastel, or any other medium. Give

yourself the gift of really seeing, touching, and losing track of time in art. It’s a trip worth taking, an invitation to come into a creative space for a spell.

The majority of work you will see at arts festivals, galleries, and exhibits in the area is painted from personal observa tion of and appreciation for our beautiful northern wonderland. The tradition is a long one, and we who wield a brush be lieve it never will, through clouds, wind, snow, rain, and mist make for enchanting

subjects every day.

There are groups who work en plein air, a fancy French phrase for out of doors. Jackson Arts, captained by Melanie Leavitt with 20 years of experience, offers classes through the season and pop-up experiences at other opportune times.

Mt. Washington Valley Arts Associ ation and ArtWorks/Chocorua Creative Arts Center offer a free experience from

ists at work. Anyone is welcome to look on and listen to the critiques.

Harvest Gold Gallery invites the public to join guest artists to work en plein air some Saturdays at their location in Lovell, Maine. Check local listings for upcoming opportunities.

To some appreciators, the joy of experiencing art is to catch an artist in the process perched on some crag

May through December with their Friday Painter’s Group, meeting at scheduled locations on Friday mornings. Schedules may be found at www.chocoruaartworks. com or MWVAA’s Main Street Gallery in Norcross Place.

This group was started by Nan White and Marge Kendrick (among others) back in the early 1970s—to continue the tradition that began over 170 years ago—to hone skills, try new mediums and techniques, and simply observe art

gy outcropping. Quietly spread along the banking of a river bend or at the easel in a very public place, such as the Scenic Overlook in Intervale on Route 16. Inspired by our sensationally varied and dramatic environment, artists have been called to this area since the mid-19th century. Intrepid men rode in coaches, on horseback, canoed, and hiked to remote locations to capture unimaginable vistas, of which they took back to the city to exhibit.

In 2022, the community of creativity has truly come back to life with popular arts events, exhibits, and paint-outs in the Valley and beyond. We artists are alive and motivated, working to bring you new and exciting pieces.

MWV ARTISTS & GALLERIES

Artworks

132 White Mountain Highway, Chocorua, NH • (603) 323-8041 www.chocoruaartworks.com

Bill Fein Gallery 106 Fein Lane, Center Conway, NH (603) 356-7943

Cassidy Gallery (603) 662-2074 www.cassidygallery.com

Cook Memorial Library 93 Main Street, Tamworth, NH (603) 323-8510 www.tamworthlibrary.org

Edge of Maine Art & Framing

182 Main Street, Brownfield, ME (207) 935-2817 www.edgeofmaine.com

Erik Koeppel Fine Art PO Box 325, Jackson, NH (603) 383-7062 www.erikkoeppel.com

Fryeburg Harbor Antiques and Fine Art Gallery 506 Harbor Road, Fryeburg, ME (207) 925-2848 www.fryeburgharbor.com

Gallery 302 112 Main Street, Bridgton, ME (207) 647-2787 www.gallery302.com

Gateway Gallery & Gifts 32 Exchange Street, Gorham, NH (603) 466-9900 www.gatewaygallery.biz

Harvest Gold Gallery 1082 Main Street, Center Lovell, ME (207) 925-6502 www.harvestgoldgallery.com

Please report corrections and additions to info@mwvvibe.com.

Jackson Art Studio & Gallery 155 Ridge Road, Jackson, NH (603) 387-3463 www.jacksonartnh.com

Jesse Mixer Metalsmith North Conway, NH www.jessemixer.com

Karen Eisenberg Designs North Conway, NH • (603) 662-9887 www.kareneisenberg.com

League of NH Craftsmen

North Conway*

2526 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, NH • (603) 356-2441 www.northconway.nhcrafts.org

Linda Gray Intervale, NH • (603) 986-1028 www.lindagrayartwork.com

Louise Perry of Vintage Frameworks 28 Norcross Circle, North Conway, NH (603) 356-7711 www.vintageframeworks.com

Main Street Gallery/MWVArts

16 Norcross Circle, North Conway, NH (603) 356-2787 • www.mwvarts.org

Molly Mundy Art and Illustration Jackson, NH www.mollymundy.com

Nathan Macomber Glass Studio 480 Eaton Road, Conway, NH (603) 447-1825 www.macomberglass.com

NW Cassidy Fine Art (603) 662-2074, nwcassidy@earthlink.net

Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery 69 Maple Street, Center Sandwich, NH (603) 284-7728 www.patricialaddcarega.com

Robert Gordon Gallery

Kancamagus Highway, Conway, NH (603) 356-7943

Roger C. Williams Fine Art

125 Main Street, Lovell, ME (207) 925-3380 www.rogerwilliamsfineart.com

Skyforest Gallery

407 White Mountain Highway, Conway, NH • (760) 770-3777

Surroundings Art Gallery

12 Main Street, Sandwich, NH (603) 284-6888 www.surroundingsart.com

Stained Glass Shack Studio 63 West Main Street, Conway, NH (603) 447-4949 www.stainedglassshack.com

St. Kieran Community Center for the Arts

155 Emery Street, Berlin, NH (603) 752-1028

www.stkieranarts.org

Virginia Moore Pet Portraits & Fine Art 83 Crossover Road, Albany, NH (603) 520-8230 www.vmooreportraits.com

White Mountain Artisans Gallery

3358 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, NH • (603) 356-6546 www.whitemountainartisansgallery.com

White Mountain Photography 95 Main Street, located inside Snowflake Inn Jackson, NH • (603) 374-6050 www.whitemountainphoto.com

With These Hands Pottery

397 Tasker Hill Road Conway, NH (207) 256-2522

www.withthesehandspottery.com

The enthusiasm with which the images were received by the public and hoteliers was astounding, and soon grand hotels began to dot the landscape. The tradition was for the hotel to invite artists to take up residence for the season, or part thereof, to entertain guests. Room and board were often part of the deal, but the sale of paintings was the way in which artists made their money. If they were a wise business person, the artist would paint mostly small works easily sold and transported, tucked into steamer trunks back to Boston, New York City, and beyond.

Along with the well-known artists who were reliably here for the season, such as Champney, Cole, Shapleigh, Hill, and Kensett, famous Hudson River School artists, the likes of Winslow Homer, frequently came to the area. Some of Homer’s iconic sketches of Mount Washington and Choc

orua graced the pages of publications in Boston and New York, or illustrated books. To the delight of hotel guests, they could return home with tales of dining with Homer or Cole and then watching them paint the image which they now possessed … heady stuff in 1860.

Today you may find an artist, possibly at Chocorua Lake Bridge or in the Village, soaking in the hazy mountain vista while conversing with passersby who are mesmer ized by the ability to brush an image onto canvas or paper. Some of us actually sell off our easels with the admonition to carefully protect the oils which are not yet dry. It is a mutually delightful experience for the patron, as well as the artist, since we seldom meet those who purchase our work from galleries. There is a transformative moment when an onlooker sees an image come to life for them as the artist works—an experience which some choose to share with the creator. For many of us, en plein air IS our studio. So, these encounters are an invitation to come into the creative space with us for a spell.

However, you choose to encounter art, shows, galleries, exhibitions, or chance meetings, make it a part of your life … it enriches the soul.

JP Goodwin, past president of the MWVArts, former director of Art in the Park, and present board member and treasurer of Chocorua Creative Arts Center and ArtWorks Gallery, art instructor, and facilitator of the Friday Painters Group, can frequently be found around the Valley creating and exhibit ing. Raised on the North Shore of MA, where she painted and taught extensively, she has been coming to the Valley since 1950 and painting here since the 1990s.

Mt. Washington Valley Arts Association and ArtWorks/Chocorua Creative Arts Center offer a free experience from May through December with their Friday Painter’s Group, meeting at scheduled locations on Friday mornings.

SO, YOU WANT TO START A FARM?

Strategies to Explore if it Is Right for You

By Jesse Wright and Olivia Saunders

Therecent pandemic had us all spending more time at home. Some combination of Zoom parties, Netflix binges (Tiger King, anyone?), and new hobbies were present for nearly all of us. Some folks started baking, others gardening. If that first taste of a homegrown tomato or chicken from your own backyard has you dreaming of starting your own farm, this who, what, where, why, and how strategy can be a good way to think through if farm life is for you.

The who, what, where, why, and how strategy

Why are you interested in starting a farm?

• Are you impassioned to grow your own food for subsistence or sus tainability reasons? Do you have the desire to go one step further and sell your products to your neighbors?

Can any of your goals be met by having a garden on your land or at a community garden, or doing a work trade at a local farm? Explore here

what additional value farming fulltime may bring to your life. Some of the goals you have of connecting with nature and plants and animals may be achieved simply by growing some of your own food during your spare time.

Who is on your team?

• For many, one of the lures of farm life is the potential to be your own boss; but often, successful farms are not one-person shows. Are there other people you are thinking of formal ly partnering with? What do those partnerships look like? Less formally, if you need help with tough stuff like processing chickens, who of your family or friends wants to help you? Are there friends and neighbors you can call on when you need to be off the farm for a day or two?

• In addition to the internal farm team, there may be additional people or organizations in the region that will help make your farm a success.

Connect with agriculture service providers in your area. Some first points of contact for you may be your county-based office of UNH or UMaine Cooperative Extension, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), or your local coun ty conservation district or town’s agriculture commission. Additional opportunities for collaboration may be a good fit through the Mt. Wash ington Valley Eaters & Growers or the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, etc.

Who are you selling to?

• You may have perfected the art of making cheese from your dairy goat herd, but getting that product into the hands of paying customers is a whole different arena. Make a list of who your customers are, why they will choose to spend their money with you, and how you can explain your niche to them.

Photo by Sarah Davis, Davis Natural Produce

What are you producing?

• Will you specialize in just one thing (veggies vs. meat vs. maple syrup) or try to do it all? Many small farms diversify their product lines to attract customers and mitigate risk, but

What resources do you have and what resources are you lacking?

• Unless you plan on using your body exclusively to farm, you will need equipment. The specifics will vary based on your size and scale. Make a

Often, beginner farmers rely on their physical bodies to perform much of the labor of farming. Investing in certain tools, equipment, and technologies early on can save your body from a lot of wear and tear and keep you farming for the long haul without injury.

there is also value in doing a few things and doing them well. What will be your farm’s strategy?

What are your goals?

• This can be an overwhelming ques tion with many different threads to pull on—but try to keep it simple here. What do you want the farm to bring to your life? Do you need to make a certain amount of money or simply break even? Do you want your kids and neighbors to connect with the land?

detailed list of what you already have and what you’ll need so you under stand what level of investment you’ll need to make to get your enterprise off the ground. Often, beginner farmers rely on their physical bodies to perform much of the labor of farming. Investing in certain tools, equipment, and technologies early on can save your body from a lot of wear and tear and keep you farming for the long haul without injury. Despite the notion of farming as a simple life, it is not without the aid of technology.

ALL THAT’S MISSING IS YOU!

Bring drinking water, sleeping bags and a cooler full of food.

OUR SECLUDED YURTS HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A PERFECT GETAWAY!

(802) 233-7010

Brownfield, ME

Photo by Mountain Heartbeet Farm, Effingham, NH

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING FARMERS?

“If you did not grow up in agriculture, be prepared to commit to a different lifestyle—it is not a 9 to 5 job. If you are thinking about getting into it because you have a passion for gardening or growing things, know that the charm may fade, but the hard work is fulfilling and it’s an amazing experience. There is a big sacrifice being on the frontline of feeding your community. Working hand in hand with Mother Nature and nurturing the ecosystems is rewarding like none other.”

-Sarah Davis of Davis Natural Produce www.davisnaturalproduce.com www.facebook.com/davisnaturalproduce

“Prioritize systems and support. Systems: Think deeply about what systems you want to put in place first, sec ond, and third.

Prioritize: And in my opinion, get a walk-in cooler ASAP. The flexibility for harvesting, washing, and storing your hard work makes this a critical investment. Farming is a lot of picking things up and putting things down over and over again. Think this through and touch your crops as efficiently as possible.

Support: Farming is REALLY hard. Make sure you have the physical, mental, and emotional support you need in place before you start—and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Connect with other farmers, listen to podcasts, read books, and educate yourself on the abundant resources available to you as a farmer. Humans have been cultivating the land for a long time; no need to do it alone or reinvent the wheel.”

- Joanne Ducas of Mountain Heartbeet Farm www.mountainheartbeet.com www.facebook.com/MountainHeartbeet

• Other resources to think about are land, labor, cash, expertise, networks (social capital).

What are your boundaries?

• Talk with your family or those close to you and set expectations around work-life balance. If your family values going to the beach on a hot Saturday, how will your farming enterprise interfere with that goal? Farming full time can take away from personal and romantic relationships, so it’s best to get on the same page before diving in.

Where are you farming?

• Do a comprehensive site assessment.

• If you will be farming the soil (as opposed to hydroponics or ornamental plant sales), know what type of soil you will be work ing with. The USDA Web Soil Survey is an online tool you can use to learn about soil anywhere in the United States. Whether you own property or are looking for land, this tool can clarify what type of farming is appropriate on that site.

• There is much to consider when assessing a property for the suitabili ty of crops and animals. What you can or should grow will depend on the site characteristics, such as soil condition, depth to bedrock, how stony the soil is, aspect and slope, frost conditions, the likelihood of flooding, shading from trees or buildings, access to water, etc.

• How far away are you from your customers? From your slaugh terhouses? From your nearest veterinarian?

• Check with your town’s zoning and ordinance rules. Many towns in NH and ME are farm-friendly, but specific rules can vary from town to town. If you are adding road signs, building new structures (these need setbacks from property lines and may be taxable), or if you are bringing customers to your property for commercial sales (like a farm store) you will want to check in with your town. See if your town has an Agriculture Commission to support you through this process.

Where are you selling?

• Deciding on market channels can be a trial-and-error process for many new farms, but having a well-informed strategy can help steer your business planning. Farm stands, farmers’ markets, and wholesale accounts—there are many different options, each with its own price points and labor requirements. Don’t forget to con sider the value of your time/labor as a finite resource.

How are you going to learn?

• Connect with other farmers in your area. If you don’t have pre vious experience working on a farm, see if you can shadow a farmer for a day, or plan a visit with some seasoned farmers to learn more about their experience. Consider working on a com mercial farm for one or more seasons that is similar to the one you dream of operating. Check out the list of MWVEG member farms at www.mwveg.com.

• Enroll in UNH or UMaine’s Beginner Farm course. Both Extension Services offer multi-week, hybrid (in-person and online) intro ductory farming classes. The class will introduce you to service providers in the state that can assist you in your farming career, explain what grant and loan opportunities exist, and help you craft your vision, mission, and business plan.

How are you going to keep records?

• The hardest work of farming is often done at the desk. What strategies do you have for planning and tracking production?

Photo by Joanne Ducas

What record-keeping systems will you use for sales and invoic ing? The last thing you want to do is sit down at the end of the year with a shoebox full of torn receipts, so make a plan and stick to it to avoid a stressful (and costly) tax season.

After thinking through these questions, you may have enough information to decide if this new enterprise will be your sole income or a side hobby. Know that running a farm entails more than just growing. You also have to sell that non-shelf-stable product, market yourself and your crops, maintain records, work when you don’t want to in the heat and cold, and so much more while carving out time for yourself and your family or friends. If you really want to produce food on a commercial scale for your community, run a business, and have skill and knowledge in both production and business, then farming may be right for you and it’s time to write a business plan.

If going in whole-hog to a new farming business doesn’t feel right, consider other ways you can contribute to the local food movement and sustainable agriculture. Farmers don’t farm in a vortex; they also need support. Do you have skills or time that you can contribute to the farm ing community in some other way? There are many groups, farmers’ markets, farming associations, etc. that could use your help to advance their mission. This type of contribution may have even more impact to sustainable agriculture than starting your own farm.

The Mt. Washington Valley Eaters & Growers (MWVEG) is an organi zation made up of farmers and local food advocates who are working together on local food issues and aim to provide a voice for farmers on farm-related topics and resources to community members. Visit www.mwveg.com for an interactive map including a searchable database of farms and local food information in the region. Vinegars.

Photo by Anne Skidmore Photography

The hoppessey: Brewlysses of Vistica Tours Mt. Washington Valley Breweries

Don’t call me Clem. These are the tales of my alter ego, Brewlyss es of Vistica. A tireless traveler who sought out eight Mt. Washing ton Valley breweries this summer, packing nothing but pen and paper, a thirst for the untapped, and a fervent lust for local flavor. My first destination was TUCKERMAN BREWING on Hobbs Street in Conway. As I walked toward the entrance to the outdoor beer garden, I was treated to a wicked guitar solo. Fortunately, the gods had not warned me of screaming sirens, so my ears weren’t filled with wax. On the contrary, I had been informed that Simon Crawford would be entertaining us that day and, indeed, he did. With the music getting my blood pumping and the heat of summer parching me, I immediately purchased a pint of Shandy, a refreshing blend of beer and lemonade. The 4.5% Shandy was a superb starter for the hot day ahead. Lemony, slightly sweet at first with a light bitter finish that cleaned it up

nicely. The large grass field has a huge tent for shade, plus plenty of chairs and tables, both under the tent and out in the open. The Shandy didn’t last long. As Simon went from the Talking Heads to Elvis Costello, I went from Shandy to the Granite State Cider. Apropos of the sunny afternoon, the 6.4% cider has green apple tartness and light carbonation.

Feeling sufficiently hydrated, it was time to fuel up with their brick-oven pizza. Keeping it light, I ordered the caprese and rifled down a Wild River Wheat while I waited. This tasty 5% Belgian white-style with orange peel and coriander is also available to go in cans that are so pretty they could make Apollo blush. The pizza was light and crisp, just like the Kölsch I picked up to wash it down with. Both were consumed greedily, as if I had been turned into a pig. In between songs, I added to Simon’s coffer, and he called out, “Hey, Beerman! I’m just going to spend it at

Word and photos by Clem McAuliffe

your store!” I simply replied, “I know.”

The longest trip of my tour took my party over Bear Notch Road to the often-mispronounced Kancamagus Highway. Our destination was the WOODSTOCK INN BREWERY, famous for its combination of great beer and gracious lodging. My first impression was how beautiful and plush the outdoor dining area is. Tables surrounded by blooming flowers and floral scents wafting sensually over us, melding with the rustic outdoor wooden bar, relaxed us immedi ately. After ordering our flights, I ran back to the car to retrieve my phone. On my return, I noticed a family on the sidewalk with an elderly woman seemingly stuck waiting for a late guest. She was noticeably tired and had no place to rest. Brewlysses to the rescue! I quickly borrowed a chair from the hostess and brought it out to her, upon which the family thanked me ostensively. When I returned to my group and told of my dashing deed, we looked to see how the weary travelers were fairing, but lo and behold, they had vanished. Perhaps it was a test from the gods! Although a bit bewildered, I had a job to do and made it straight to my tray of brews.

My first victim was the 4.7% Lemon Blueberry Pale Ale, which quenched my thirst and eased my mind. Next, I finished the unfil tered Hefeweizen bursting with banana and clove. Feeling more

relaxed, I took my time with the Sour Pineapple Crush, slightly sweet and slightly sour with an earthy husk background. This brew could have kept me prisoner for seven years and I wouldn’t complain. Keeping my mission in sight, I kept my beers tight and gravitated to their Galactic Light. Hop forward with a dry finish, this 4.3% SIPA lifted all the weight of the world off my shoulders. The lone glass

In between songs, I added to Simon’s coffer, and he called out, “Hey, Beerman! I’m just going to spend it at your store!” I simply replied, “I know.”

left on my tray was saved for last on purpose. It was time to go home, so it was time to go big. A 9.3% bold but sweet Barley Wine had me professing my love to my wife, our guests, and the server. I asked our server if Aphrodite herself was responsi ble for the lovely elixir. She replied, “It’s only my third day, and I don’t know the brewer’s name yet.” Apparently, she was under the goddess’s spell as well.

Much like the devoted letter carriers who march on through rain or sleet, my journeys must continue, however reckless the stormy ride may be. I do fear Zeus will hurl lightning at me for this ham-handed segue that even Cyclops saw coming. But, for the sake of being unambiguous, let’s do it anyway.

A 9.3% bold but sweet Barley had me professing my love to my wife, our guests, and the server. I asked our server if Aphrodite herself was responsible for the lovely elixir.

Bethlehem’s REK’•LIS BREWING offers a cozy joyful atmo sphere, plenty of room all around, plus pool and shuffleboard upstairs (and that’s just the inside!). While exploring the twists and turns of rek’•lis, I was able to help out a novice couple with the rules, and offer some techniques for the shuffleboard table. Even though some consider my vast knowledge of pub games trivial, this pair was quite impressed and declared their grati tude. With my good deed done, I could concentrate on the real reason I was there. As is my M.O., I like to start light and began the tasting with Boneyard Pils. The 4% crystal clear Pilsner has a tiny hop nose and finished bone dry. With my whistle sufficiently wet, I climbed into their 5.3% NEIPA Clouded Judgement. Flaunting a fragrant Lupulin bouquet basked in a hazy cumulus color, the light tropical fruit flavors flittered past my taste buds, vanishing behind a wry nod. I crushed the beer like the stoning giants of Laistrygonia and devoured my crispy brussels sprouts like Scylla, the six-headed monster swallowing the severed heads of sailors. The next course was a local hot dog and a responsible half-pint of the 7% NEIPA, Pretentious Hopper. As is written on their sacred cans, “To imbibe it is akin to lounging in the folds of a hop flower, bathing in the fine yellow Lupulin, while simultaneously being showered with the essence of citrus.” It was awesome with my grilled weenie and onions! With a little room left in my gullet, I opted to fill it with their Carry Out Stout. A smooth, easy stout with a medium roast, cocoa notes, and dry finish. I felt like a king after all that and rightly had my queen take me home.

Preparing for a future trip to the motherland of brew fests, Oktoberfest in Munich, my alters and I congregated at LEDGE

BREWING. Donning traditional German beer gear, and leder hosen, we were welcomed as if we had won the Trojan War. Of course, when you arrive with an 18-month-old in lederhosen, it’s hard for people not to get excited. Forewarned not to show up at Oktoberfest in clean lederhosen, we were looking to get sloppy or at least a little dirty. Luckily there was a litany of Eu ropean-style beers to keep the mood. A light pale gold grisette called Sad Songs Only got the axle greased nicely. This 4.9% quaint saison had a Belgian nose, mixed with earthy yeast, hop flavor, and small spice notes. WUNDERBAR! Stepping it up

a notch, I went with the aptly named Gotlands Swedish Farm house Ale. This 6.3% amber, with sweet aromas, drinks a little like a Hefeweizen. It is super sneaky and rightly named after a class of submarines in the Swedish Navy. BA-OO-GA! DIVE! DIVE! So far, so good, but I wasn’t soiling my lederhosen—so up another notch I went. My thoughtful concubine offered to fetch another flagon, and I cried out, “As you wish!” Watch out for what you wish for unless you wish for a buttercup of a NEIPA, in which you should ask for “As You Wish.” This 7.1% super light-yellow dream come true has a fresh ruby red grapefruit nose, juicy body, and a sly bitter finish. Even if Helios, God of War, had deemed this brew sacred and therefore off limits to mortals, I fear my recalcitrant nature would have me scoff at him as I fill my indignant belly. At this point, I was having trouble staying on track, so what better than going Off Piste, a 4.9% pale ale with New Zealand hops, a berry nose, and a hoppy arid finish. Ironically, Off Piste is on pis te. My last Ledge beer that day was Above Board. Actually, all my beers at Ledge that day were. But Above Board is their 5.5% dry-hopped Pilsner. Clean, light, and dry. Just like my lederho sen, for now.

My tour was wearing on me, so I decided to take a break from brews. The ALPINE GARDEN WINERY in Bartlett provided the lavish liquids for such a respite. Here, with a friend, owner, and craftsman, Ryan Classen, I could boast of my adventures while enjoying their barrel-aged pét-nat ciders and natural wines produced right here, in the valley of my home. Half of me wanted to stay in one of their cozy cabins, but the other half knew there was more adventure ahead. So, I thanked the hosts for the revi talizing refreshments and took my leave.

When is the trip almost as fun as the destination? When you can

drive over Hurricane Mountain Road to SACO RIVER BREWING in Fryeburg, Maine. The mountain bike trail-like road that has you on the edge of your seat never disappoints. Unless you get stuck behind a semi whose driver thought all roads are equal and is now waiting for divine intervention to levitate his vehicle to a safer passage. I’ve only seen it once, so the odds are in your favor for an uninterrupted and exciting ride. Saco River has a bountiful bunch of beautiful brews, plus various food trucks to help soak

up the suds. I jumped right into the newest Session IPA #VI. The 4.3% IPA jumped right into my nose with fragrant citrus aromas, which further invigorated my already intense thirst. My wife blinked and the beer was gone. I moved quickly to the Clearwa ter Pale Ale. With a light but fresh hop profile over the mellow malt backbone, the best one-word description for Clearwater is “balance.” Playing to Poseidon’s ego, I kept with the water theme and boisterously called out for Aqua Socks. Although tempted to throw her shoe at me, my wife resisted and simply pointed to the third glass on my flight stick. Never imagining the light color of this hoppy Pilsner could produce such floral flavors this

Playing to Poseidon’s ego, I kept with the water theme and boisterously called out for Aqua Socks. Although tempted to throw her shoe at me, my wife resisted and simply pointed to the third glass on my flight stick.

delicious teaser had me cursing Dolos, the God of Deception, for making me his fool again. But the joke was ultimately on him as I went back for a second helping. To cap off the visit, I finished with the Old Course Porter with Coffee. The combination of freshly brewed coffee flavor with the lightly roasted malt made this 6.6% a perky capper. Not heavy or bitter, this coffee porter should be served at Mount Olympus—and for all I know, it is.

Looking forward to seeing the new HOBBS BREWERY, I continued south on Route 16, past the familiar Hobbs Tavern (and original brewery). Even though it’s only 11 miles down the

Dueling Chefs Smoke-n-Grille called my name. I chose two dif ferent artisan sausages, an Italian with peppers and onions, and spicy pork sausage with pico de gallo, plus an order of armadillo eggs (smoked bacon wrapped jalapenos stuffed with cheddar, cream cheese, and brisket). I commented that if armadillo eggs really tasted like this, they indeed would be extinct. The friendly chef/anthropologist explained to me that armadillos don’t lay eggs. Flight #2 included Hobbstoberfest, which seemed fitting for the sausages. I was right about that. I finished off with Haze Bale, a crafty 6.5% NEIPA brewed with El Dorado, Sultana, and

I commented that if armadillo eggs really tasted like this, they indeed would be extinct. The friendly chef/anthropologist explained to me that armadillos don’t lay eggs.

same exact road, I somehow got turned this way and that. Again, the gods were at work, or play, confusing my guidance system and surely laughing at my misfortune. Motivated by my mission and driven by thirst and hunger, I found my destination and planned a cunning attack. Step 1: Get beer. Step 2: Get food. The first flight included Whaddya Say?! IPA, a 6.5% new take on an old classic. West Coast blend of classic and modern hops layered on top of subtle and smooth malt sweetness. Boat Drink, their fruited sour that looks like guava juice, and tastes like fresh rasp berry and blueberries, is an unbelievable 7%! Next, was a velvety cream ale that didn’t slow me down as much as a speed bump. Lastly, was Juice Box DIPA that pours opaque, has dapper floral hoppiness, and drinks incredibly light for an 8.7% DIPA.

I was returning to my table with my second flight just as the

Belma CGX pellets. Light but cloudy, bubble-gum nose with a tight bitter finish. Haze Bale was unique and delectable, just like armadillo eggs.

The newest brewery/eatery in the area, BIG DAY BREWING in Gorham, was still on my list. Conveniently located on Route 16, just before the intersection with the trojan moose. The new brewpub has plenty of parking; and there were about a dozen people waiting for them to open. I took that as a good sign and ventured in. My first flight fashioned four 5-ounce pours, all of a different color. Starting with the super clean Coos Gold Kölsch that looked just like a Kölsch should and drank like one, too. Next, I had to have the 5.6% Visor Hefe because it was such a cool cloudy color, reminiscent of a NEIPA. The similarity stopped there as light banana and spice gave way to earthy esters,

making the beer worthy to be served in Elysium. The remaining two brews’ hues were further down the dark side of the artist’s pallet. The Jungle Weiss is a 5% dunkelweizen with clove, raisin, and banana aromas, brewed with wheat and toasted malts delivering a super smooth rich taste. The darkest was the 5.5% milk stout, Knee Deep. Big fresh roast flavor with sweet coffee undertones kept this stout full-bodied, but still easy to drink.

Feeling that familiar tug from my gut, I ordered a couple of sliders and two more 5-ounce pours. I can’t overstate how great these last four delicacies were. The special slider of the day was jerked chicken with summer slaw and a roasted pineapple ring. The whole thing was a cacophony of flavors and a triad of textures. Warm Caribbean spice combined with cold cole slaw and sweet, roasted pineapple would have been enough, but the Beach Day Sour put the experience on another level. Mango and strawberry pu·rée accentu ated by Hallertau Blanc hops created the best strawberry sour my mouth has ever seen. Still, there remained “big popper,” a bacon cheeseburger slider with cream cheese and fresh jalapeno—plus my final beer. As destiny would have it, the 8.5%

DIPA is called Set Closer. This floral, dank old-school DIPA partnered perfectly with the jalapeno popper bacon burger mashup. I wondered if the owner, Jason, was familiar with the Lotus Eaters of Greek mythology, whose intoxicating fruit made you forget your past and implore you to stay there. His sly smile said it all.

Every trip to the MOAT MOUNTAIN SMOKEHOUSE & BREWING CO. is like coming home. A place of comfort and refuge, where there’s always a fresh meal and a cold brew waiting for me. Only a half-mile from my shop, I can smell the brisket in my sleep. Arriving recently, I was nearly thwarted by the throngs of sum mer suitors enjoying themselves much as I would. My wife Winelope and I worked our way to the bustling bar, where I deftly ordered my favorite BBQ meatloaf and a Boneshaker Brown. I watched sarcastically as she pretended to read the menu and then chose the Thai chicken pizza (every time!) with a Miss V’s Blueberry to accom pany it. Amid the Opas, IPAS, and DIPAS, surrounded by the din of laughter and clinking glasses, we looked at each other, and both let out a long sigh. It felt good to be home. “It’s good to have you back, Clem,” she said.

The weather forecast called for colder-than-usual tem peratures on the higher summits that day. Added to that were the near-constant winds dragging those temps down even further. The winds wouldn’t be blowing the clouds away, however. Not that day. The forecast stated the summits would remain in the clouds and that visibility on the ground was going to be low to non-existent. A prior rime ice event

along with some overnight snow squalls ensured everything was white on white, only leaving our hikers to provide some contrast on the mountain.

Fortunately, they had their bases covered if visibility did drop to nil: they had a brand new yPhone® 19 ProMostest+® the latest and greatest put out by Pear Technologies®—and on it they were running the latest version of the EveryPath® app. They also carried a neatly folded paper map; they’ve had it for years, stashed deep in a pack with a compass in a bag with some waterproof matches, a space blanket, and some other ‘mergency junk.

They don’t really use this stuff, and honestly, aside from knowing the red end of the compass’ needle points to the north, they don’t know how to use it anyway. Like many, they’d grown dependent on their preferred tech. They should probably get something like one of those smart, subscription-based satellite service-supported “ReachOut®” thingies providing a lifeline, along with an ability to send simple messages to an off-moun tain point of contact or two. But, should-schmould: have you seen yPhone prices lately?! They can’t afford both. Their phone

has taken over as their camera, and now it’s taken over as their navigation. Normally they wouldn’t go out in such conditions, but they’d planned this hike for a long time.

BRAIN POWER FIRST

That’s how they got into this hypothetical predicament—this contrived-but-totally-possible scenario. You see, this was the day

they died—their batteries gave up the ghost, that is, and they lost their ability to navigate in the whiteout conditions they encoun tered. They almost got lost up there! And, temporarily, anyway, maybe they were. They didn’t stay lost in any case, but it could’ve happened. As it was, they caught a break; they could spot most of their route back the way they came.

Physical Methods

Someone apparently, another hiker or climber, had cleaned the rime ice off the rock cairns on their ascent, allowing the cairns to now stand out. “Why didn’t we think of that?!” the group ex claimed. “Come to think of it, now in hindsight, we could’ve used some ‘wands,’ too,” one added. These simple bamboo garden stakes with brightly colored duct tape “flags” on them would have been super easy to use, planting them in the snow going in so they could follow them on their way back out, retrieving the wands as they went. All they had to do was think about this and other what-ifs a bit more; to throw a little brain power at the endeavor. They didn’t, though. The electronics led to compla cency—a condition that has taken more lives than cotton. when

By Mike Cherim, Redline Guiding and not just and fully relying on a single electronic device like a cell phone, is absolutely necessary—unless you really like rolling the dice.

Photo by WiseguyCreative.com

REDUNDANCIES

As noted in the paragraph above, a bit of thinking can go a long way. In this case, it was the other guy’s thinking that really helped this party out of this hypothetical situation. Using your head, and not just blindly and fully relying on a single electronic device like a cell phone, is absolutely neces sary—unless you really like rolling the dice. Using your head along with the electronics is offering a level or two of redun dancy, but you can do more. There’s more to it than carrying a charger—which requires charging itself—or spare AAs.

Map and Compass

For example, you can really learn to use a map and compass on a very practical level. If for nothing else, use these items to identify nearby mountains of interest by simply orienting your map, or safely return to the trail or camp after venturing off for a private commune in nature (a.k.a. going number two). You may see the humor in that, but it’s not funny to those who have found themselves in that panicked state of not knowing where they were. People have died. These tools can empower them; they can empower you. These tools offer redundancy. A topographical map can point out terrain features like ridges and waterways that can be followed by way of “hand-railing” (keeping a stream on your right, for example).

Other Electronics

Also offering redundancy are more electronics, but only those with independent functionality and independent sources of power. For example, a handheld GPS-enabled satellite communication device. We won’t name specific brands, but these range in sophistication from simple “push-for-help” functionality—a personal locator beacon (PLB) or emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB)—to multifunctional satellite-powered communications. The latter devices are expensive, however, and often carry a periodic charge, but these higher-end gadgets have extended functionality some will find worth it in greater peace of mind.

Someone to Be with You

In the winter, in particular, hiking with another person, a human redundancy, can be instrumental. Hypothermia—a dropping of your core body temp—robs its victims of their judgment. If this happens, intervention becomes necessary, as the patient may no longer be able to see to their own needs, or even identify with them. Intervention may occur in strange ways, though … the sun comes out and warms things up, for example. The soundest approach, however, besides trying to stay out of trouble to begin with, is to have another person with you. A professional guide, a knowing buddy, or perhaps members of a hiking group. In really cold weather, an obser vant partner(s) can also identify frost nip before it bites. There may be some safety in numbers after all.

Someone to Miss You

Do you want more redundancy? (You should answer, “Yes.”) A reliable friend or family member can further your redundan cy—even when with a group. All you have to do is inform them of your timeline, route, and even what color pack you have, and what car you’re driving can be helpful. If you don’t return by an agreed-upon time (plus a little more), this reliable person can call for help (9-1-1). For starters, the authorities

The fundamentals of trail navi gation with map and compass are a necessary skill whether hiking with friends or solo.

There is no substitute for printed maps and a reliable compass. Your phone and/or GPS are wonderful additional tools and can make backtracking the route you hiked a snap–assuming you know how to use them.

Being solely dependent on a GPS can also get you into trouble — batteries die, satellite or phone signals become unavailable, a drop on a rock cracks the screen.

The appropriate waterproof map and a Suunto A-30 compass are necessary redundancies.

can drive to the trailhead to see if your vehicle is still there. The conditions and other factors will shape the actions that may follow.

They Could Be Looking for You

If you are past due, do try to reach out to those on standby. Leave a message. Send a text. And if you are overdue, do answer your phone if someone calls, even if you don’t recognize the number. If you are having an emergency in the backcountry, as part of a proper response, call 9-1-1. Even if your phone claims there’s no signal. “No signal” means you can’t reach the network that serves you, but there are 9-1-1 repeaters out there that will connect your call. No signal? Dial anyway, then wait.

DOING YOUR HOMEWORK

It seems like every year people get lost on Franconia Ridge. They hike up Falling Waters Trail, make their way across the Franconia Ridge to Mount Lafayette, miss the sign, then start heading down the rugged Garfield Ridge Trail, instead of heading down Greenleaf Trail to Old Bridle Path. This wouldn’t happen as often if hikers would not just carry a map, but also take the time to carefully review it ahead of time, learn the route, and investigate using the other resources at their dispos al. There are many resources out there.

Using Apps with Maps

The same goes for electronics. Don’t just carry them, but know them inside and out. Map out and scan your route, and get re al-time LIDAR data if you know how. Know your bailout points and options. Make sure you sync your devices, ensuring the map datum in your electronics matches that of the up-to-date paper map you’re carrying. Datums will include WGS84, NAD27, and

NAD83. The latter is ideal in North America, but match your map. We also suggest using the UTM position format in your device as well, provided, that is, your map features a 1km UTM grid (in blue), as well as “Eastings” and “Northings” along the frame of your projection.

Speaking of Apps

We will avoid naming names, but apps like our fictitious “EveryPath®” should not be relied upon, since much of their information is user-furnished. This is all fine and good from a community standpoint, but when we start seeing erroneous and non-existent trail names being published, it’s time to draw the line. Nothing beats a current map—so buy one today.

THE TAKEAWAY

Regardless of your methodology, combine your resources and do your due diligence. Plan to work at it. Tools are worthless if improperly or carelessly used—or worse, if not used at all. If your batteries die out there, it should be nothing more than a minor inconvenience that is easy to correct and easy to overcome. Plan for it. Check yourself, because out there, it’s all on you.

Mike Cherim is the founder and owner of Redline Guiding located in Intervale. His company offers myriad activities from hiking and snowshoeing—the core activities they passionately began with—to more extreme offerings, such as mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and rock and ice climbing. Redline Guiding also offers several educa tional offerings, such as wilderness navigation, and Mike, being a NH JP, also officiates mountain weddings. To learn more, visit www.RedlineGuiding.com.

Photo by Redline Guiding

October

October

October

November

November

Running in the Whites

by Anna Mangum

Finding Your Pace within the Community

This year, I stopped drinking coffee before my runs. This happened shortly after moving to Jackson in the winter. Maybe it was getting an Australian shepherd puppy that also forced my hand and got me right out the door in the morning. I had moved around a lot for the past couple years— college in Maine, New Zealand, home to Georgia during the pandemic, New Hampshire, back to Maine, and finally, felt at home in Jackson. I didn’t quite have a routine, as I was getting used to life post-college and having an energetic puppy. Outside my window, in the winter, in that joint-aching cold, I could see the town of Jackson cross-country skiing, and I thought maybe I’ll learn to Nordic ski. I didn’t.

Instead, I was getting up every hour of the night, putting all my layers on, and waiting until my puppy Juniper would pee. Even though it was cold, and I was bleary with exhaus

tion, my neighbor’s house was a comforting sight with candles in each window and a roof coated in snow. But this non-rou tine that was always changing with Juniper’s rapid growth didn’t lend itself to consistency with running.

Eventually, in March and April, I started to run a little bit more. I’d try to get out before Juniper woke up, which was different from my old “slow morning, then run” approach that had included a full breakfast and coffee. At that point, I’d lace up around 6 a.m., in the early light, and head out around Jackson for a short run.

“Something that I wasn’t expecting to find so fast, though it’s quite literally how I got into running, was to find community around this sport. Initially, in college, I had a friend encourage me to join her running club. The only way I was able to start was to find a group of people that I looked up to and make new connections with.”

This felt special to me, to get to know the town. I laugh to myself thinking about the first walk I took in Jackson, not realizing the sidewalk is a triangle shape. I had no sense of where I was upon completing the loop and was shocked to see my house on the left-hand side of the street. When I started to get back into run ning, the small Jackson loop was a go-to for doing shorter road runs. Then, I started to run on Carter Notch Road, struggling to

up here, there are ankle-twisting, heart-in-throat, sweatingon-a-cold-day mountains that will entice you to climb. I grew up in Atlanta. The thought of running up a mountain or a hilly road seemed impossible. Trail running or power-hiking seems to be more popular here than road running. This isn’t a sport that feels natural to me, but I love it. Though, I swear I just look at a mountain and get calf pain. Injury as a runner, my friend reminds me, is a rule, not an exception. I do seem to get injured quite a bit.

run up that hill at first, and then feeling like I was soaring on the way back down, side by side with the waterfall with a view of the mountains. Moving in the direction of water feels so power ful, and I feel lucky to have that right out my front door.

Running is a tricky sport. In some respects, it feels easy. Not physically, at least, never for me. But it’s easy to plan. Eat a snack, put on shoes, and run out the door. It literally embodies that sensation of running away. It’s an immediate release, instant gratification. But it’s not that simple. Living

Something that I wasn’t expecting to find so fast, though it’s quite literally how I got into running, was to find community around this sport. Initially, in college, I had a friend encourage me to join her running club. The only way I was able to start was to find a group of people that I looked up to and make new connections with. Even though we met at 4 p.m.—that time of day that perpetually is a mental crash, brain fog, nap-desiring part of the afternoon—I’d somehow get myself to show up and run new distances. The first time we ran 6 miles, I remember dreading it all day, thinking, no way can I do this. That time of my life taught me that running can be more than a sport, more than the individual, more than the distance or pace stats. The year after college, I started to run more by myself, pushing the pace, pushing the miles, and listening to more Lil Wayne than I had ever listened to before. It felt exhilarating, yet I was missing that ear-to-ear grin and rush of joy I used to get from running with a group.

Moving to Jackson, I didn’t know many people. Most of my running, at first, was alone. Coming back from an injury, running felt unnatural and intense. Trying to balance it with a puppy was exhausting. When I started to run with my friend Nicole, I started to feel more of that utter joy creep back into

“Even though I am dealing with another running injury as I’m writing this, I feel that joy returning through the running community here. Just knowing that community is out there makes me excited to rest, recover, and share this wonderful—and challenging, every single time—sport with others.”

Author Anna Mangum descends from the Iron Mountain Trail. WiseguyCreative.com photo

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302 West Smokehouse & Tavern Fryeburg • 207-935-3021

Mount Washington Valley Run Club/Nicole Handel photo

running. Those runs with Nicole, who also got a puppy around the same time, helped me see running through new eyes: that of our dogs. They had to learn how to run in a human world, and we got to teach them trail manners and leash skills. We’d bring them for our last mile to get them used to running, and now they could certainly outrun me.

Even though I am dealing with another running injury as I’m writing this, I feel that joy returning through the running community here. Nicole started the Mount Washington Valley Run Club and reading those posts on Facebook brings me joy even if I haven’t been able to join. Just knowing that commu nity is out there makes me excited to rest, recover, and share this wonderful—and challenging, every single time—sport with others.

Personal Favorites

My favorite road runs are the ones I can do from the front door. I love making loops around Jackson and incorporating hills. I currently wear the Craft CTM Ultra 2 running shoe, and it’s been my favorite road shoe. As for trails, I love running up Kettle Ridge in North Conway, an uphill mountain biking trail. I’ve only gotten lost once. I also enjoy “trail-running” up Boott Spur, which is more of a power hike the whole way up. I wear a Hoka Speedgoat as a trail shoe.

Increasing Strength

An important lesson I’ve learned in running is not to neglect strength training! It’s so important, especially for injury-prone people, like myself. I never thought I’d be a frequenter of the gym, but thanks to Ashten Cullenberg at Steady State Health

in Portland, I feel like I’m starting to develop tools to structure my weeks more safely. And, as someone who likes to plan, knowing how to smartly increase load over time gives me confidence. With her guidance, I’ve been able to run the most consistently in my life. A little bit closer to the White Mountains, Hilary McCloy offers PT services and trail running workshops for runners.

Local Running Series & Organizations

This fall, The Mount Washington Valley Run Club will offer weekly group runs on Monday and Wednesday, with an oppor tunity for uphill efforts on Thursday mornings. On Thursdays, Great Glen Trails hosts a running series on their trails near the beautiful Great Gulf Wilderness.

During the summer season, community running events in the Valley are easy to find. White Mountain Milers typically hosts its Whitaker Woods 5k trail race on Tuesday evenings, while Ski the Whites hosts Friday Night Vert series at Cranmore, where participants run up the mountain for socializing and pizza at the top! There are many wonderful pop-up events, like Hilary McCloy’s trail running and strength workshops. White Mountain Endurance offers different guided runs and races throughout the summer.

As always, please be sure to check ahead for dates and schedule changes. See the listing on the next page for more information.

The Mt. Washington Valley is an idyllic spot for anyone wanting to find a community that shares a passion for running! Experiment with local running options until you find your own comfortable pace!

Hilary McCloy enjoys some fall running in Dixville Notch, NH. Joe Klementovich photo

Fall Running/Nordic Series & Organizations

GREAT GLEN TRAILS

COTOPAXI FALL TRAIL RUNNING/WALKING SERIES

Thursdays, September 1 – October 6: 3:30 – 6:30 p.m.

A weekly trail running/walking series for all abilities and ages. Every Thursday for 6 weeks, racers can run/walk the long, short, or mini courses between 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. www.greatglentrails.com • (603) 466-3988

MOUNT WASHINGTON VALLEY RUN CLUB

Wednesday evenings at the Fryeburg Rec Path, 6 p.m. Monday mornings at Whittaker Woods, 6:30 a.m.

Founded in December of 2021, the MWV Run Club is a no-drop, all-paces-welcome social running club that meets for organized runs every Monday morning and Wednesday evening, with smaller, independently-planned runs and events throughout the week. Search Mount Washington Valley Run Club on Facebook or email: Nicole.Handel@Mammut.com

HILARY MCCLOY’S PHYSICAL THERAPY PERFORMANCE

COACHING - NORDIC POWDER HOUR • October 17

A 16-week workout conditioning program designed to prep the body for Nordic skiing–classic or skate. www.hilarymccloy.com (802) 238-3976

Find classic styles for timeless moments with tax-free outlet shopping in the White Mountains. Local dining, family events and public art create a surprise around every corner. a day of it

Tax-free shopping, local eateries and special events for the whole family

Nicole Handel photo

Great Glen Trails photo

Inspiring Gen Z to Hike for Happiness and Health

By Lily Hartman

Social Media Influencers in NH

It is May 2, 2021, and 23-year-old Riley McGurn is setting out on his longest hike eve: a single-day Presidential Traverse with a group of hikers from Hiking Buddies NH 48, a Facebook group in the local area. With fresh snow the day before and wind speeds up to 40 to 70 miles per hour in the forecast, the group of hikers found themselves sheltering from the wind behind a boulder locat ed right before the snowfield on Mount Jefferson. Once they reached Mount Washington, they found a porta potty in a storage container and huddled up in there, which brought them a sense of community, safety, and peace.

“I’m very fortunate for the group of buddies and what it’s done for, not only my mental health, but as well as being able to meet new people and venture out,” says McGurn.

McGurn found this hike quite humbling, since it made him question a lot of things about preparation and safety. During the hike, he explains how the

According to the EY Gen Z Wellness Study, 67 percent of Gen Z was either somewhat or very concerned about their mental and physical health in 2021. They are huge advocates for the mental health movement and believe that one’s mental health impacts their ability to care about their physical and social health.

group went through so many ups and downs togeth er, and that some of them are his best buddies now.

“I’ve become the best hiker I can be because of days like that.”

McGurn is a hiker, trail runner, and ultra-athlete from southern NH who spends most of his free time in the Mt. Washington Valley. This year was his second time participating in the Chocorua Mountain Race: a 15-mile loop in the southern area of the Valley, where he has become part of a community of trail runners. “If I’m on top of Mount Chocorua, there’s not a worry in the world,” says McGurn. “My head is clear.”

He even has a long-term goal to complete the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc: a 106-mile race in Europe that is known to be one of the hardest foot races in the world.

Bruce Adams photo

“Social media helps by allowing us to connect with those that we would’ve never met,” says McGurn, who states how it’s great to have a community and friends online—whether that be Instagram or TikTok—to chat about experi ences, trail conditions, or to plan a hike.

Gen Z Riley McGurn Hiker, trail runner, and ultra-athlete from southern NH who spends most of his free time in the Mt. Washington Valley.

Find McGurn on Instagram and TikTok: @rileymcgurn.

“I feel like most people don’t really get introduced to hiking until later in life. If only [Gen Z] really knew how beautiful and how fun this world is, if you just get out there,” says Twardy. Hiking is the one thing in his life that he knows will always make him happy.

Hiking Influencer, Brian Twardy New England-based YouTuber and hiking enthusiast on Instagram.

Find Twardy on Instagram: @brian_hikes_all_day and YouTube: Brian_Hikes_All_Day.

McGurn is part of Gen Z: the social-media-driven age group. According to the EY Gen Z Wellness Study, 67 percent of Gen Z was either somewhat or very concerned about their mental and physical health in 2021. They are huge advocates for the mental health movement and believe that one’s mental health impacts their ability to care about their physical and social health. They also say that socializing with the right people can boost your level of happiness. They want to connect with people with simi lar hobbies and believe that technology can do that for them.

“Social media helps by allowing us to connect with those that we would’ve never met,” says McGurn, who states how it’s great to have a community and friends online—whether that be Instagram or TikTok—to chat about experiences, trail condi tions, or to plan a hike. He wouldn’t have gone on some of the hikes he’s done if it weren’t for his friends, such as when one of them—whom he met through social media—reached out about doing a sunrise hike on Mount Moosilauke right after he got out of work at 11:30 p.m. McGurn also finds that when he sees a hiking post or if he scrolls back on his own Instagram, it often motivates him to get back out there.

“[Social media] just inspires you to do more and get out in different ways,” he says.

Being part of Gen Z and Hiking Buddies NH 48 myself, I have hiked with hundreds of hikers in the White Mountains, yet it is rare to meet someone else who is part of this younger generation. This is no surprise, considering that only 18 percent of 18-to 24-year-olds hike regularly, according to research done by Jersey Island Holidays, and only 20 percent of those from Gen Z in the United States have hiked since 2021, as reported by Statista.

“I feel like most people don’t really get introduced to hiking until later in life,” says Brian Twardy, a New England-based You Tuber and hiking enthusiast on Instagram, who has thousands of views on many of his NH hiking videos. According to 2022 statistics done by Global Media Insight, 81 percent of YouTube users are between 18 and 25 years old. Like many other hikers, Twardy caught the hiking bug and felt inspired to share memo rable moments of his life with the world.

“If only [Gen Z] really knew how beautiful and how fun this world is, if you just get out there,” says Twardy. Hiking is the one

Corey David Photography Bowman photo

“The biggest one that folks usually reach out on—in terms of podcast or social media—is mental health, because I talk about it in a very open and honest way,” says LaCourse, who believes that being a real human on her social me dia inspires her followers and clients to “take steps to improve their mental health, whether it be through hiking or something else.”

Influencer Sarah LaCourse

Certified sports nutritionist and personal trainer, and podcaster from Madison who hikes at least three times per week.

Find LaCourse on Instagram: @slacourse and @sarahlacourse; website and blog: www.sarahlacourse. com; podcast: www.sarahlacourse.com/podcast.

thing in his life that he knows will always make him happy.

The American Council on Exercise explains how hiking can improve feelings of happiness. Being surrounded by nature releases serotonin—leading you to feel more calm, focused, and creative. According to the report, “Therapeutic Benefits of Hiking, ” hiking also reduces feelings of negativity about yourself and symptoms of anxiety. It also has many physical health benefits, such as better cardiovascular health, improved sleep, and working various muscles, as reported by Wildland Trekking. Hiking also allows you to be part of a community where you can connect with like-minded individ uals and celebrate accomplishments together.

“You’re going to get to the top of the mountain and you’re going to have conversations with people and learn about their story and just connect with them because you both hiked to the top of a mountain. You both have something in common already,” says Nichole Iby, a hiking influencer on Instagram and TikTok, which are two social media platforms dominated by 16- to 24-year-olds—at 60 percent as of July 2022—according to Wallaroo.

As reported by MarketingCharts, 45 percent of Gen Z believe that there is too much pressure to be perfect on your online platform, and appreciate those who choose to be authentic. On Instagram, a friend of Iby’s sister, who is part of Gen Z, was inspired by Iby to find healing through hiking—and finished all of the 4,000 footers in about two years.

“I started to be more open on social media about what I’ve been through and she reached out and said, ‘You’ve com pletely changed my mindset’,” says Iby.

Iby continues to inspire Gen Z and oth ers to get outside through her travel blog, which includes gear reviews and hiking guides, as well as her online platform that ranges from posts about hiking for selfcare to funny and relatable reels, which

in topics such as strength training for endurance enthusiasts, entrepreneurship, and eating disorder recovery. About half of podcast listeners are Gen Z-ers and millennials, according to Riverside.

“The biggest one that folks usually reach out on—in terms of podcast or social media—is mental health, because I talk about it in a very open and honest way,” says LaCourse, who believes that being a real human on her social media inspires her followers and clients to “take steps to improve their mental health, whether it be through hiking or some thing else.”

LaCourse reiterates how Gen Z already cares more about wellness than previous generations and says that hiking can really offer, from a mental and

LaCourse says that if you’re new to hiking, to just get out there—whether that be alone or with a friend, and that it’s okay to start small and local in order to build backcountry confidence. She recommends Hedgehog Mountain and Mount Willard as being great, beginner-friendly hikes.

gain a lot of attraction from her younger followers. Gen Z is also the generation that resonates most with humorous content, as stated by Harker Aquila

Not too far from where Iby is located is another inspirational hiker in the Mt. Washington Valley: Sarah LaCourse, a certified sports nutritionist and certified personal trainer from Madison—just south of North Conway—who hikes at least three times per week. LaCourse started her own podcast: Pursuing Endur ance Podcast, to guide and support others

emotional perspective, that deeper soul and self-connection: “That nature therapy is really beneficial because it allows somebody to take a step back and not be in their day-to-day life.”

LaCourse says that if you’re new to hiking, to just get out there—whether that be alone or with a friend, and that it’s okay to start small and local in order to build backcountry confidence. She recommends Hedgehog Mountain and Mount Willard as being great, begin ner-friendly hikes.

“We’ve seen a lot of places get overrun with people because of social media,” says Iby, who would love to see more of Gen Z discuss sustainability on their social media, especially since Gen Z is more concerned about climate change than any other generation.

Hiking Influencer, Nichole Iby White Mountain hiker who uses Instagram and a TikTok travel blog to inspire Gen Z and others to get outside. Her online platform reviews gear, offers hiking guides, and discusses both leave-no-trace and hiking preparation to ensure hikers know what they are getting themselves into.

Find Iby on Instagram and TikTok @nicholethenomad; www.nicholethenomad.com is her blog.

Data Source: GWI Published on MarketingCharts.com. Based on a September 2021 survey of 9,223 social media users ages 16-64 in 7 markets.

Alex Iby photo

In addition, McGurn says that Peaked Mountain is a great, short hike that has amazing views of the Valley and some higher peaks, such as Mount Washington and Mount Carrigain. He often hikes it with his friend who lives in North Con way, where they go to watch the stars or sunset. He says, “Sometimes it only takes a 2-mile hike or sometimes it takes a 20mile hike [to clear any mental baggage], and that’s the beauty of being up in the mountains.”

On Iby’s social media platform, she reiterates to her followers that it is not about how fast you hike or how long your hikes are, because those things don’t make someone a better hiker. She says, “I’ve had a lot of people in Gen Z reach out and tell me that that really resonated with them.”

Peaked Mountain is a moderate hike that many locals and visitors in the Mt. Washington Valley tend to overlook, unlike many of the other iconic hikes in the state, such as the Franconia Ridge Loop.

“We’ve seen a lot of places get overrun with people because of social media,” says Iby, who would love to see more of Gen Z discuss sustainability

on their social media, especially since Gen Z is more concerned about climate change than any other generation. In fact, conservation and restoration are major topics on TikTok, as stated by Forbes

Gen Z should also be mindful of safety, such as checking weather reports, telling someone where they are going, carrying the 10 essentials, and studying their route. Iby discusses both leave-no-trace and hiking preparation on her social media platform to ensure hikers know what they are getting themselves into.

“I made a TikTok about this a year ago that was talking about how people underestimate New England trails,” she says, using the Franconia Ridge Loop as an example, which is a difficult, 9-mile loop.

McGurn says to take hiking one step at a time, ask questions, and do your research on social media and Google. He says that it won’t be easy in the begin ning, and you won’t know everything, but that’s okay.

“Hiking has pushed me to love myself more; to become acclimated with harder times,” says McGurn. “It pushes us to do harder things.”

Protecting the Ecological Integrity of the Vertical Environment

Alexandra Roberts climbing Nutcracker on the Barber Wall at Cathedral Ledge. The Climbers’ Preserve, now protected by the Upper Saco Valley Land Trust and Access Fund, sits in the background between Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge. Photo by Erik Howes

Partners in conservation join forces to preserve the Valley’s climbing areas

By Abby King, Upper Saco Valley Land Trust Mike Morin, Access Fund Molly Mundy and Liam Byrer, Friends of the Ledges

Contained within a geographic region spanning from Fryeburg, Maine to the upper reaches of Crawford Notch and Pinkham Notch in New Hampshire lies one of the epicenters of rock and ice climbing in the United States. Prominent ledges carved by ancient glaciers in the classic Roche mou tonnée landform, and lesser cliffs tucked into hillsides—their features transformed through heat and pressure of metamorphic processes— have served as a veritable playground since the 1920s for rock and ice climbers looking to hone and test their skills. These same cliffs also create critical habitat for a diversity of plants and ani mals, a fact which has led to close collaboration

Most prominent among these rocky outcrops are Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge, sitting just outside North Conway’s bustling village, and visible from virtually every corner of the Mt. Washington Valley.

among conservation groups, land managers, and climbers over the past several decades in an effort to help protect and conserve the ecolog ical integrity of the vertical environment. (See sidebars to learn more about these groups and their efforts.)

Most prominent among these rocky outcrops are Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge, sitting just outside North Conway’s bustling village, and visible from virtually every corner of the Mt. Washington Valley. Serving as a hub of activity for visiting and local climbers alike,

these historic ledges stand prominently, not only on the landscape, but also in the minds of new and seasoned climbers in the Northeast. On any given day of the year, when conditions permit, climbers can be seen testing themselves on the faces of these storied features.

It was this passion for place that first ignited local energy around preserving the lands between Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge, where three uncon served private properties, surrounded almost entirely by Echo Lake State Park and Cathedral Ledge State Park, presented concerns related to public access to trails and the long-term integrity of the view shed from the ledges, which has slowly been chipped away at by encroaching development over the years

PARTNERS IN CONSERVATION

These concerns led to community conver sations, which spurred the formation of

in and around the cliff environment, one can’t help but develop a strong reverence for these uniquely wild places. The long history of climbers working to conserve and steward, not only climbing areas, but advocating for management protections, such as the Wilderness Act, is a testament to that reverence. The formation of Friends of the Ledges was a direct result of local climbers recognizing that we needed a local mechanism for climbers to give back to the lands that sustain our pursuits.”

Around the same time of FOTL’s found ing, the wheels were in motion at Access Fund, a national non-profit climbing advocacy and conservation organization committed to leading efforts around sustainable access and conservation of the climbing environment in the U.S., to hire a Northeast regional director to support lo cal climbing organizations such as Friends of the Ledges in their locally driven work. Thanks in large part to the Mt. Washington

“The long history of climbers working to conserve and steward, not only climbing areas, but advocating for management protections, such as the Wilderness Act, is a testament to that reverence. The formation of Friends of the Ledges was a direct result of local climbers recognizing that we needed a local mechanism for climbers to give back to the lands that sustain our pursuits.”

an organizing body of founding members who, in 2016, established Friends of the Ledges (FOTL), a 501(c)3 non-profit climbing advocacy and conservation organization based in North Conway. FOTL was founded with a mission focused on bringing the community together around conservation and stewardship of the region’s climbing areas. The founding of the organization was a critical step in improving conservation of the Valley’s climbing areas.

“Climbers are acutely aware of how special the vertical terrain is in this region,” says Friends of the Ledges founding board member and current vice president, Sarah Garlick. “Due in large part to the extensive amount of time climbers spend

Valley’s status as a regional climbing epi center, Access Fund’s new regional director found his home in the Valley, and quickly went to work uncovering conservation and stewardship opportunities.

“When I first came to town in January 2017, there were two local projects that landed on my plate immediately,” recalls Mike Morin, Access Fund Northeast regional director. “One was working on the reopening of Band M Ledge in Madison, and the other was seeing what we could do to get conservation deals brokered with the private landowners between Cathedral and Whitehorse.”

Thanks to overlapping networks among members of the FOTL board of directors and Upper Saco Valley Land Trust (USVLT)

Gaining the crux of the classic Lost Souls on Whitehorse Ledge a perfect autumn day is climber Mickey Hardt from North Conway. Photo by Jordan Cargill, of Mountain Shadow Adventures.

WE ARE PASSI NATE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY

We WORK pro-actively with local businesses and organizations to help keep it a wonderful place to LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY.

In addition, the over over in the MWV

Since 2014 thanks to our guests we have donated over to local programs and non-profits, all thanks to the patronage of our guests, like for this flag!

PHILANTHROPY WITH A TASTY TWIST

staff, collaborating on a land acquisition project was a natural fit. USVLT is a local non-profit land conservation organization that, at that time, had been around for a little over 15 years. USVLT had many con servation successes under its belt by then, but had never collaborated with FOTL or Access Fund before. USVLT also had never explicitly focused on the importance of protecting climbing access, although conservation projects that expanded public access for all types of low-impact recreation had always been a priority.

THE CLIMBERS’ PRESERVE, BARTLETT, NH

In early 2017, conversations began in earnest about opportunities and ap proaches for conserving the land between the ledges. Through this collaboration, the team of USVLT, FOTL, and AF realized its first conservation win, when Jim Ansara, the owner of one of the parcels, agreed to donate his 9 acres of land, containing portions of the Bryce Link Trail and Bryce Path, to USVLT for long-term ownership and management. Upon receipt of the donation of the land, USVLT granted a conservation and recreation easement on the property to Access Fund to hold, while Friends of the Ledges was identified

Peregrine Falcons

as the long-term property steward, tasked with assisting the land trust with future stewardship needs on the property, such as trail maintenance.

“We are proud to call the land that Jim Ansara donated for protection by USVLT and Access Fund The Climbers’ Preserve,” shared Abby King, conservation director at the Upper Saco Valley Land Trust. “Of course, the land has important natural resource value as habitat for upland species and wildlife connectivity, but the significance this property has for rock climbers and all those who enjoy the view from the top of Cathedral Ledge cannot be overstated.”

The conservation of the 9-acre parcel of land was an exciting win for the three organizations. Now in 2022, USVLT, Access Fund, and FOTL are continuing to work together, to conserve the remaining 16 acres of land, contained within the two properties in that pocket of State Park land that still remain unprotected, with the goal being that one day The Climbers’ Preserve will encompass all 25 acres of this important landscape.

EAGLE MOUNTAIN CLIFF, JACKSON, NH

Though places like Cathedral Ledge and

Brought to the brink of population collapse in the mid-1900s from the impacts of pesticides such as DDT, peregrine falcons are a recovery success sto ry. A fierce mid-air hunter, peregrines inhabit cliffs and human-made structures across the United States. In northern New Hampshire and western Maine, peregrine falcons return to cliffs yearly to breed and fledge young.

The early history of the peregrine falcon’s recovery includes rock climbers who assisted state and federal agencies’ efforts to reintroduce, band, and monitor peregrine falcons. Today, climbers continue to work closely with those same agencies to help ensure the ongoing suc cess of these amazing raptors. This close working relationship includes establishing seasonal closures of rock faces to allow falcons to breed, hatch, and fledge young.

As part of this ongoing partnership, Access Fund released its Climbing and Raptor Management Handbook, which compiled research by state and federal biologists, along with independent raptor researchers. This handbook provides land managers and climbing advocates with the most up-to-date information available on topics such as closure size and duration, and raptor behavior to help ensure the yearly breeding success of this important species.

To learn more, check out Access Fund’s Raptor Management Handbook at: www.accessfund.org/open-gate-blog/access-fund-releases-comprehensive-climb ing-raptor-management-handbook.

Josh Laskin taking on Eagle Mountain Crag on the south face of Eagle Mountain in Jackson. USVLT’s new Eagle Crag conserva tion easement protects 41 acres of forestland and talus fields here, including the cliff itself.

Photo by Tom Moulin

Whitehorse Ledge may dominate the landscape, and likely the hearts, of most local and visiting rock climbers, the Mt. Washington Valley is blessed with over 60 unique climbing areas, which contain hundreds of opportunities for climbing across the landscape. One such beloved spot is Eagle Mountain Cliff. Located just outside the quaint village of Jackson, the crag on the east side of Eagle Mountain is easily accessible via the Eagle Mountain

USVLT, the Town of Fryeburg, and Access Fund began working together in late 2020 on a partnership effort to permanently protect and steward the iconic and wellloved Jockey Cap property. Friends of the Ledges has also been a part of the effort and will add regular stewardship at this location to its schedule once the acquisi tion effort is complete.

Jockey Cap is home to a huge variety of easily accessible climbing opportuni

Jockey Cap is home to a huge variety of easily accessible climbing opportunities. From beginner-friendly top roping and traditional climbing to high-quality bouldering and challenging sport climbing, Jockey Cap offers options for experts, guided groups, students from Fryeburg Academy and Summit Achievement, and more. Though small, Jockey Cap is mighty.

Trail, and now has over 20 established climbs. USVLT was grateful to receive a donation of a conservation easement from Lorraine Tilney in 2021 that will forever protect 41 acres on the south flank of the mountain. The easement area protects the cliffs that are popular with climbers and the 6 acres of cliff and talus slope habitat for wildlife. What’s good for climbers is also good for the natural world—Lorraine Tilney’s donation of the Eagle Crag ease ment also protects important forest soils, rare habitats, and water quality, and helps create an uninterrupted 322-acre protected wildlife corridor.

JOCKEY CAP, FRYEBURG, ME

And over on the Maine side of the Valley,

ties. From beginner-friendly top roping and traditional climbing to high-quality bouldering and challenging sport climb ing, Jockey Cap offers options for experts, guided groups, students from Fryeburg Academy and Summit Achievement, and more. Though small, Jockey Cap is mighty. The sweeping views from the summit of the 610-foot granite dome of the White Mountains to the north and west are definitely worth the family-friendly hike or climb. The partnership between USVLT, Access Fund, the Town of Fryeburg, and Friends of the Ledges on this ambitious conservation project will result in the permanent protection of the land, and much more thorough and thoughtful stewardship of the sensitive pitch pine

Access Fund is a national non-profit organization that leads and inspires the climbing community toward sustainable access and conservation of the climbing environment. With nearly 25,000 members nationwide, Access Fund inspires and serves the entire climbing community through conservation, stewardship, policy, and other programmatic work. Access Fund is an accredited land trust that manages a $1.3-million revolving loan fund and holds conservation easements across the country. Since its formation in 1991, Access Fund has successfully completed 90 land acquisition projects resulting in the permanent protection of thousands of acres of climbing areas and millions of dollars in land value. For more information, visit www.accessfund.org.Facebook or Instagram: Access Fund

The Upper Saco Valley Land Trust (USVLT) is a non-profit charitable organization accredited by the national Land Trust Alliance. Last year, USVLT celebrated its 20th anniversary, having completed more than 80 projects that conserve over 13,000 acres of habitat, working forest, and prime farmland, as well as 16 miles of frontage along the Saco River and its tributaries. USVLT conserves land for public recreation, farming, forestry, scenic enjoyment, and wildlife habitat.

It protects land that is rich in natural resources from development by owning and managing land preserves and by holding conservation easements on privately-owned property. USVLT works across an 11-town service area which includes: Albany, Bartlett, Chatham, Conway, Eaton, Hart’s Location, Jackson, and Madison in New Hampshire; and Brownfield, Denmark, and Fryeburg in Maine. To learn more, visit www.usvlt.org. Facebook or Instagram: Upper Saco Valley Land Trust

Friends of the Ledges (FOTL) is a volun teer-based organization centered in the eastern White Mountains of New Hamp shire. FOTL is dedicated to stewardship of local climbing areas and preserving the rich historical tradition of climbing in the region. Friends serves as a liaison between the climbing community near and far, and land owners and managers, including the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation and the US Forest Service.

Twice a year, FOTL hosts a cliff stewardship day and cleanup. During these stewardship days, volunteers gather to clean areas and support land managers and users with a specific project. Last fall, volunteers worked on putting in some small sections of new trail and several timber check steps at the Echo Roof area of Whitehorse. This past spring, Cathedral Ledge experienced a huge rockfall event that destroyed a climber access trail, so the community created a new and more sustainable climber access trail to that part of the cliff. Friends of the Ledges has recently formed an open Stewardship Committee of dedicated local volunteers. This committee held its first meeting in June and organized a cleanup of Band M Ledge in July. FOTL also has made a commitment to replace all of the aging fixed hardware that serves as protection for climbers and has developed a team of skilled climbers to do this intensive work. To learn more visit nhledges.org. Facebook or Instagram: Friends of the Ledges

The continuing successful partnerships between Access Fund, Friends of the Ledges, and the Upper Saco Valley Land Trust mean that places like Cathedral Ledge, Eagle Crag, and Jockey Cap will be forever protected, cared for, and well-loved by the climbing and broader

conservation community. The three groups continue to collaborate on con servation projects throughout the region and are excited by the prospect of future conservation wins that will help ensure the natural areas that help make the Mt. Washington Valley special are protected and properly stewarded into the future.

THE REMARKABLE LIFE CYCLE OF BLACK BEARS IN THE WHITES

By Matt Maloney, Tin Mountain Conservation Center Photography by John Rondeau (all images captured this year in the northern White Mountains)

Whether you live here or come to the area for the myriad reasons the Whites attract people to the Valley, black bears inspire much curiosity as they roam and forage in the White Moun tains and forested wild areas throughout New England. It’s a memorable thrill for many to see their first black bear. These large creatures of the forest seem almost humanlike in some of their sounds and mannerisms, while remaining mysterious and unknown in many other ways. Their ability to hibernate through long cold winters and emerge unscathed in the spring is one such example of the myster ies black bears represent. There is more to a black bear’s life cycle, though, than just hibernating through winter. The pro

to the general public, people love hearing that all orphaned bears are released back into the wild.

Black bear mating in New Hampshire typically occurs between mid-May and mid-July for the vast majority of bears, according to Kilham. Bears are polyg amous, mating with multiple partners. After mating, a female black bear’s fertilized egg isn’t actually implanted into the uterus until the fall. The embryo doesn’t undergo any development during this time. This is known as delayed im plantation and seems to allow the mother black bear time to find enough food to fatten herself up enough to give birth in mid-winter. Other mammals also undergo delayed implantation as a survival trait,

cess and development of an independent and survival-ready bear is a fascinating thing to behold.

Black bears, like humans and other animals, have a cycle of growth and developing intellectual maturity that takes them from birth right up to the start of their lives as solitary and inde pendent adult bears. We’ll explore some of the events and stages that take place as a bear reaches maturity, ready to start the cycle of Ursus americanus again for another generation.

Ben Kilham, who operates the Kilham Bear Center—a black bear cub rehab, research, and educational facility in Lyme, New Hampshire—was generous enough to lend his years of insight into bears for this article; much of the infor mation here comes directly from him or his website. While this center is not open

such as fishers and pine marten. Once the egg is implanted in the uterus, (typically in November) gestation takes about 60 to 70 days with the mother giving birth typically in the cold of January within their den site.

Pregnant mother bears, females known as sows, are the first bears to seek out den sites for the winter—usually by the beginning of November, if not sooner—according to Kilham. There is variation, mostly due to the sow need ing to put on enough fat to survive the winter and nurse her newborn in January adequately. Male bears will stay active as long as there is food to be found, but mothers must settle in before giving birth and conserve energy found in their fat reserves. That fat will, in turn, enrich the milk that an infant bear needs to grow fast and strong in its early days of life.

A closer look at the process and development of an independent and survival-ready black bear.

Pregnant mother bears, females known as sows, are the first bears to seek out den sites for the winter—usually by the beginning of November, if not sooner—according to Kilham.

Black bears are born with eyes shut, a hairless body, and ears folded (as noted on the Kilham Bear Center website). They almost look like little piglets! They will wake their mother throughout the winter every so often to nurse and then go back to sleep next to her warmth. Two to three bears are a typical litter. The tiny bears can grow rather quickly, thanks to the mother’s milk containing up to 30 percent fat content. Black bears typically emerge from hibernation in April, at

can smell them from afar. Always be a bit wary of a lone cub, because mothers can become aggressive if they feel their young are being threatened in any way. The mother does, indeed, give the cubs a long leash as the cubs mature and get ready to one day survive on their own.

The first year that a mother is with her cubs, she will not mate. All her devo tion is to the cubs and defending them. The mother bear offers an “umbrella” of security for the cubs, according to Kil

which point the learning process under the mother bear begins. “The mother’s first priority is to build a nest at the base of a good climbing tree, where she coaches her cubs at their first attempts to climb.” The mother bear will spend three to four weeks at this site teaching the bears climbing skills.

Around mid-May, the mother bear and cubs will move to better feeding grounds, and she will select a “large pine or hemlock tree near water.” Ben Kilham calls these “baby-sitting trees.” The mother bear will use the tree as a base from which to forage for food, including leftover acorns and beechnuts from the prior autumn. The mother will make a nest of raked-up leaves near the tree and sleep with the cubs at night. As the cubs get better at traveling—much like a hu man baby learning to walk—the mother becomes more flexible with where she can go. Mother bears move about more frequently as the summer season contin ues—their cubs never too far from her side. All the while, the mother bear will continue to nurse her cubs.

In contrast to earlier in the summer, the cubs will now wander quite a ways from the mother at times, exploring the world around them on their own. I’ve of ten come upon a lone cub or two wander ing around with no sight of the mother anywhere. It seems to be the norm to see the mother give the cubs a wide berth. She’s watching somewhere, though, or

ham, giving them a chance to forage for food on their own without the wariness of danger that would otherwise impede their food search. The cubs will continue to nurse as well until winter, for the mother’s milk is essential to their growth and continued physical development. Come November, they will spend another winter in the den, nestled next to mom.

So, the life cycle of a black bear en tails two overwinterings with the mother. The following spring, they will once again emerge with mother bear and continue to forage and nurse. At some point, during the course of the summer, the mother bear will start to shoo the cubs away and prepare to breed. Cubs will sometimes nurse right up until they are kicked out, but once mother bear goes into estrus (is sexually receptive) she will put her energies into finding a mate within her home territory.

Male bears will travel a home terri tory as well, occasionally marking trees by rubbing their backs on them, leaving scented hairs on them, or leaving just a scent behind. Perhaps, more importantly, they urinate frequently. The urine picks up scents from their hair follicles on its way to the ground, helping to mark a territory out and signal its presence to a female. Females will give off breeding scents in their urine as well, also derived from hair follicles. There is definitely a selective process to which mate females choose to breed with as Ben Kilham 662-0452 Decor Jewelry Furniture Chalk Paints the life

Black bears can be found in most of the forested regions of North America, including most of Canada, Alaska, some parts of northern USA (including Minnesota), and along USA mountain ranges. They live in forests, swamps, and other areas with dense cover, venturing into clearings to feed.

AMERICAN BLACK BEAR - RANGE americanus Black Bear range. from Encyclopedia of Life (via eMammal).

points out—saying that bears can be very individualistic and are highly intelligent animals with a thought process—in cluding who to breed with.

Black bears are an example of sexual dimorphism, or size differences between the sexes. Males can be up to 96 inches long, while females are closer to 60 inches long. Weight varies a lot, being influenced by diet, but breeding males typically weigh around 300 pounds. Females can give birth by age three and males can breed after or soon after they leave their mother. Ben Kilham says there is a social “hi erarchy” amongst male black bears of breeding age. Bigger, older males are the dominant ones in this hierarchy and will defend their mates from other bears. While much of a female bear’s energy goes into reproduction, a male bear’s energy is put more into size. A larger male will typically breed more, while younger and smaller bears often don’t breed at all. Once a male bear has mated with a female, he will stay with her from three to seven days, traveling around with her and marking his territory so no other bears can mate with his chosen sow.

Bears, being highly intelligent creatures, can make nuanced reproductive decisions. Kilham mentions one individual sow that stopped nursing, knowing that it would attract male bears (due to her entering estrus). Perhaps she

Q&A: Black Bears, People, and Food

Feeding black bears is never a good idea. Although people are sometimes tempted to entice a bear to their property or elsewhere for a good look or a photo, there are serious consequences for both the bear and people.

Q: Why is it a big deal to feed a bear or leave food out for one?

A: Bears have good memories and powerful senses of smell. When they find a source of food, they will come back to the same spot to look for more food. If the food is always there, they will keep coming. This habituates the bear to human sources of food.

Q: What’s so bad about a bear that is habituated to human food? Do they forget how to forage on their own?

A: They won’t necessarily forget how to find wild foods, but bears that are habituated to human foods will often get more and more aggressive about finding human sources of food. This means breaking into cars (some are good at it!), even breaking into houses sometimes. Human-fed bears also pose a danger to humans through becoming aggressive toward people at times. In the

backcountry, bears have charged hikers in order to obtain backpacks that may contain food.

Q: What happens to the bear when it becomes overly aggressive toward people?

A: This is where New Hampshire Fish and Game officers often have to make a deci sion to relocate, or even put down, a bear. Relocating bears often doesn’t work because they are so territorial. A bear will often walk well over 100 miles to its old home. It’s con troversial, of course, but often decisions are made to euthanize a bear that is deemed too aggressive, and thus, dangerous to humans.

Q: What kind of things will attract bears besides intentional feeding?

A: According to New Hampshire Fish and Game, unsecured garbage is the number

one source of human food for bears. Bears have often made their way down to various dumpsters in the Mt. Washington Valley region over the years, attracting local busi ness patrons, perhaps, but also creating a “nuisance bear” in the process. Bird feeders are the next big source of bear problems. Bird feeders should be taken down after April 1 to avoid issues with bears. Unprotected chickens are the other big source of uninten tional bear feeding.

The phrase “a fed bear is a dead bear” is of ten quite apt. No one wants to see a bear’s life taken due to problems with humans. Bears are best kept wild, as they are well adapted to our forested habitats. Appre ciate the times you catch a glimpse of a bear or cubs, but don’t create problems for these magnificent creatures by leaving food out.

Tin Mountain’s Upcoming Nature Programs:

Saw Whet Owls

Thursday, October 6, 7 p.m.

Fantastic Fungi Festival Saturday, October 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Autumn Gold: The Larch of North America Tuesday, October 18, 7 p.m.

Autumn Gold: Eastern Larch Exploration Saturday, October 22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Bird Watchers Migration: A Visual Exploration Thursday, November 10, 7 p.m.

Conservation in Palau November 17, 7 p.m.

Winter Greens & Wreath Making Saturday, November 19, 10 a.m.-noon & 1-3 p.m.

Winter Tree ID Saturday, December 3, 10 a.m.-noon

Christmas Bird Count Saturday, December 17, all day

was making an informed decision on the pros and cons of continuing to raise the cub she was nursing. Some sows will do the opposite and go through another winter with their cubs, for a total of parts of three winters in a hibernating den. The more time the mother spends with her bears, the more adept they will get at climbing, foraging, and other survival skills. Mothers make these choices on an individual level Kilham believes, putting their intelligence to work to make reproductive and cub-raising decisions.

The more one knows about the life cycles of bears, the more light is shed, indeed, on their intelligence and adeptness at survival. Outside of just their remarkable physical traits, bears are making so many choices affecting their chances of survival and the chances of survival of their young. They teach and learn, survive a long winter, and care for their young over two summers. The fact that bears are here at all goes a long way toward an understanding of how remarkable they and their life cycle really are.

Tin Mountain Conservation Center is a non-profit providing education programs for school children, adults, and families that foster greater awareness and understanding of the natural environment. Since 1980, the center has offered hands-on programs in the schools, at summer camps, and within commu nities throughout northern New Hampshire and western Maine.

Ben Kilham Bear Center, Lyme, NH info@kilhambearcenter.org www.kilhambearcenter.org • (603) 795-4135 Facebook and Instagram: kilhambearcenter

TRACING THE HISTORIC VIBRANCE OF THE FREEDOM VILLAGE STORE

By Ed Wogan

Thetown of Freedom, NH, originally part of the Mason Grant of 1629, originated as an early settlement called Shawtown, which dates back to 1768. At the start of the Revolutionary War, the population of Freedom was 83 people. Freedom was once part of Effingham and called North Effingham until 1832.

Following an influx of new settlers from Maine, there was a reli gious and cultural conflict between the newcomers and the for mer New Hampshire Seacoast transplants who already populated the area of Effingham. As a result, North Effingham “broke free” in 1831, with residents voting on the name change to Freedom and the state legislature enacting that change under the leadership of a future American president, Franklin Pierce.

A Center of Commerce

According to documents from the Freedom Historical Society, the building that houses the Freedom Village Store at 11 Elm Street today was constructed on land owned by Jonah Towle around 1860, although other long-time Freedomites believe it to have been earlier. The distinctive mansard roof was designed to maximize living spaces above the store, and is a rare example of Second Empire architecture, which is unusual in this area. The tall windows were consistent with typical 19th-century storefronts, which generally consisted of single or double doors flanked by display windows. The large front windows were designed as display areas for the large array of sundries, food stuffs, and essentials–as well as to allow light into the structure.

Alonzo Pease and his wife Mary purchased the property from

Towle in 1875 and ran the business until 1882, when they sold the building to James D. Foster. JD Foster owned and operated the store until his death in 1897, at which time his son, Ralph G. Foster, took over the operation. He referred to the store as simply “R.G. Foster.” R.G. was known as a savvy merchandiser; constantly looking at ways to promote his business, diversify his product assortment to differentiate himself from other local purveyors, and capture a greater share of the wallets of Freedom residents.

Upon Ralph Foster’s death in 1922, his widow Nellie Worm wood Foster inherited the building and its contents. She sold the business to Arthur Tilton, who operated the business for over 25 years, as the “A. R. Tilton General Store.” Tilton sold the business to Albert and Elsie Whitaker in 1949, who operated it for 10 years as the “A.C. Whitaker General Store.”

Because it remains in operation today, it may seem the Freedom Village Store was the only retail business that ever operated in the village of Freedom, but that was certainly not the case, as Freedom was a lively and diverse retail and manu facturing hub for many years.

During the first 100 years of existence of the store, all of the proprietors used their own names as the business name. The term Freedom Village Store became popular after the 1940s, and it subsequently became the village’s sole surviving store. How ever, according to the Freedom Historical Society, the Freedom Village Store at one time competed with four other village stores for the patronage of Freedom shoppers, and a sixth retail location was known to have been active around 1880. An ad for Freedom’s

How one individual helped to create a monumental turning point impacting the future of the Freedom community and, ultimately, the Freedom Village Store.

mercantile stores appeared in the 1903 Old Home Week program; and featured four merchants promoting products as diverse as groceries, flour, grain, paints, oils, confectionery, apparel, seed, hard ware, general merchandise, and cigars.

In addition to the presence of a grocery or mercantile in the village of

and a pants factory operated by Stephen Danforth that produced over 30,000 pairs of pants annually. The Ossipee Valley 10 Cent Savings opened in 1868 and served the community for 35 years.

Small mills ground wheat and corn; a variety of foodstuffs including oats, corn, rye, buckwheat, maple products, honey,

Freedom for more than 160 years, many other businesses flourished in the village, inclusive of a blacksmith, tailor, under taker, multiple tanneries, a shoemaker, cobbler, milliner, and creamery, among others. Other businesses supporting the village and outlying areas included a coo perage and mills that produced bobbins, rakes, chairs, barrel stoves, and shingles, among other essentials. Manufacturing included carriages, harnesses, edge tools,

eggs, beans, and apples, plus firewood, were shipped to Portland by ox cart several times annually.

Although they were in many respects competitors, the retail merchants of Freedom were also united in a common purpose, which was to serve the needs of the community and its residents.

Through a significant period of Free dom’s commerce history, “buying local” was not an option, but a way of life.

SOURCE: State of New HampshireHighway Department - Maps Pre-1945 Topo NH Ossipee Lake Quadrangle - 1927 PCL Map. Red line represents “Hard Im perviously Surfaced Roads.”

Labeled as the “Ossipee Trail State Highway NO 25” on this 1927 map, the line in red shows the previous (pre 1939) location of Route 25. The blue line was added by MWV Vibe illustrator to show the current location of Route 25 (via overlay).

Route 25 “pre-1939” Route 25 “post 1939”

The Road Less Traveled

The route traveled from Freedom to Portland, ME was called the Porter Road, and was chartered in 1804 as the “Great Ossipee Turnpike.” This thoroughfare ran right through the center of Freedom until 1939, which was a monumental turning point impacting the future of the Freedom community and, ultimately, the Freedom Village Store.

At this time, Selectman Charles Towle—a descendant of the founder, Jonah Towle—among others in the area, success fully proposed that Route 25 be moved south of the village in Effingham. Route 25 begins its 96.62-mile west-to-east journey in Bradford, Vermont, and concludes in Porter, Maine. The final 2.5-mile stretch that bypasses the route through the center of the village of Freedom was an absolute game-changer. Some longtime residents have described this as the “last nail in the coffin” relative to businesses in Freedom Village; however, removing traffic volume could have actually preserved many of the original buildings and acted as a deterrent to development. Some make a case that this created almost a “time-capsule of sorts” for the village.

Exposure Fuels Local Decline

Commencing with the Civil War period when residents of Car roll County and Freedom joined the battle between North and South, soldiers were exposed to other parts of the United States, and what other folks referred to as “farmland.” Much of this was a far cry from the boulder-strewn, thin soil of New England and New Hampshire—not referred to as the Granite State in jest.

The notion of the happy New Hampshire farmer living a bu colic country life was now exposed as being anything but that— as the reality was a life of toil and a requirement to become a jack of all trades. Many local farmers were forced to find other sources of income to augment meager farming income levels; the work was arduous, the hours long, and subsequent genera tions of young people raised on Freedom farms sought careers and lives “away” for the first time.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Free dom in 1840 was 926 persons, declining by almost half to 594 by the year 1900. That downward trend continued: in 1920, the population was listed in the Census as 467 persons, and over the next 30 years declined further, hitting rock bottom in 1950

When Selectman Charles Towle proposed that Route 25 be moved south of Freedom Village to Effingham in 1939, little did he know he was preserving Freedom Village and creating a “time-capsule” for decades to come.

at a mere 315 persons. The good news is that over the next 40 years, the popula tion rose steadily, achieving essentially the same level as 1840 by the year 1990. Since then, double-digit growth has occurred over the past 30 years, with the full-time population now at over 1,600 residents, and with summer residents inclusive of the lake population, swelling to over 10,000 persons. More people translates into more visitors and prospective customers for the Freedom Village Store. Today, downtown attractions include a popular art gallery, a massage therapist, and a well-established, quality antique store.

A Renewed Energy—Jennifer Molin

Jennifer Molin was a Freedom resident and MA-based business executive, former reporter, and dedicated conservationist. Jennifer’s passion for preservation and community also initiated The Freedom Village Store project. With a group of residents, she filled an empty building with a volunteer-run store that helped re-invigorate Freedom Village. Opened

in August 2009, the store continues to be run by a volunteer board and staff, and is committed to remaining a vital communi ty resource. Sadly Ms. Molin passed away in 2018; however, her legacy lives on, as she was described as “the oxygen of the Freedom Village Store.” Through sponsor ship of educational programs, community service activities such as flu shot clinics, support of the Green Mountain Conserva tion Group, and an active role in sup porting the elementary school and other community needs, the Freedom Village Store remains a non-profit organization

Pictured from left to right are Freedom natives Sam Martin, Clyde Drinkwater, Kenneth Libbey, and Clem Lovell, enjoying some downtime in front of the Freedom Village Store.

As the story goes, told by native and resident Bonnie Brooks ... Clem Lovell, who was a tax collector for many years and sang in a choir, was also known to be a jokester. On Halloween, it’s rumored that he would play spooky music from the Towle cemetery. Once, he went trick-or-treating dressed up as Little Red Riding Hood, even though he was over six feet tall. Clem went to his neighbor Ethel Ramsdell’s house and, her eyesight not the best, put candy in his bag while exclaiming how “big these kids were getting.”

Through sponsorship of educational programs, community service activities, and an active role in supporting the elementary school and other community needs, the Freedom Village Store remains a non-profit organi zation that relies heavily on the patronage of Freedom residents, donations, and fundraising events.

that relies heavily on the patronage of Freedom residents, donations, and fundraising events. The assortment of items for sale includes locally sourced, natural, and organic meat, milk, pro duce, ice cream, pies, gifts, and locally made artisan crafts that are unique and creative. The Freedom Village Store was placed on the State Register of Histori cal Places in 2016, and joins seven other historic structures.

The Heartbeat of Freedom

The Freedom Village Store building pre dates the Civil War, survived two world wars, has operated under more than 30 sitting presidents, weathered countless economic ebbs and flows, yet remains a steadfast entity in the center of town. As people come to recognize and appreciate the architectural heritage of America’s downtowns and support the preserva tion of historic properties, the future bodes well for the Freedom Village Store as “the heartbeat of Freedom.” The deter mination and commitment of its volun teer board and dedicated volunteers will hopefully sustain it for another 160 years.

The Red Parka Pub Celebrates 50 Years!

ThisNovember, the Red Parka Pub will turn 50 years old. Affectionately known as “The Parka” throughout the years, the pub continues to serve as a quintessen tial après-ski bar and popular steak house in the heart of the Mt. Washing ton Valley.

But did you know that the Parka wasn’t always a pub and restaurant?

In 1952, Fred Hanscom built a new store in Glen, which would later be sold to his nephew Ervin Grant. Ervin lived on the property with his wife and daughter Nancy (who originally shared much of this information).

The Grants ran the general store, which had everything from groceries, paint, grain, and clothes, until they built a new store closer to the Route 16/302 intersection in 1965, (eventually becoming what is now Grant’s Shop n’ Save).

The Grants, in turn, rented the original store to Dottie and Rick Roderick, who reopened it as the Red Parka Pub. In 1972, after the Rodericks moved away, the Grants leased the building and business to Jean and Dewey Mark and Al and Lois Nelson. Eventually the Marks would partner with Tony Ferruolo to purchase the Nelson’s share, and along with the help of daughter, Terry O’Brien, the Red Parka Pub legacy would begin. Recently, Terry and her mom Jean became sole owners of the Pub. The next time you visit the pub, be sure to look for the original F.E. Hanscom sign—seen in the photo above—hanging over the bar!

For more information about the 50th anniversary, visit www.redparkapub.com or follow Red Parka on Facebook.

This information was recounted by Nancy Grant via Bartlett Historical Society. Support their latest museum project by visiting www.bartletthistory.org and consider supporting their goals. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Know the Valley?

Legendary.

Your destination for adventure.

Experience the beauty of the White Mountains when you drive yourself or take a guided tour on the 7.6 mile Mt. Washington Auto Road.

Explore family-friendly Great Glen Trails by foot or bike and take a whitewater kayak clinic. Stay at the award winning Glen House Hotel with full service bar and restaurant.

1 Mt. Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH mt-washington.com | (603) 466-3988