TheLaker_July_17_23

Becky’s Garden and Other Island Tales

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Although we do not know much about Becky, legend has it that she was beautiful, kind, and loving to her sisters. Becky lived in Center Harbor with her family when the area was first settled.

Her father was said to have been pleased with such a dutiful daughter who had a passion for gardening. Her energies and kindness were the opposite of her sisters, who were vain and spoiled.

Living on a farm meant having cattle, and one day some of the herd escaped and trampled Becky’s garden. (Some say her spiteful sisters let the herd out of their pen so they could ruin the garden.) Becky was heartbroken, and her father offered her, as a gift, her choice of the islands of Lake Winnipesaukee.

This was a time when the area was unsettled. Even on the hard-to-access lake islands, the land was free for the taking. Becky’s father probably had no claim to the land but offered Becky an island as a token versus actually owning some of the Winnipesaukee islands.

However, complications ensued. Becky’s spoiled sisters wanted a matching gift from their father and made their displeasure known. After finally relenting to their insistence on owning an island apiece, Becky’s father gave his favorite daughter the first pick.

This did not sit well with her sisters, and probably weary of their behavior, Becky, in an astounding act, chose the smallest of Winnipesaukee’s islands.

Becky’s sisters, of course, chose large islands, while hers was no more than a rock jutting from the lake.

The story has a happy ending because a wealthy young man who had a prosperous farm heard the tale of Becky and her garden/island. He wanted to meet the unselfish Becky, and when he did so, he found her to be beautiful and kind-hearted. After wooing her, the wealthy man finally won her heart, and they were married. The moral of the little story is that an unselfish act and a kind heart, in the long run, can have positive results. Becky’s Island might be small, but it belonged to a woman with a big heart.

Those traveling through Meredith can gaze out over the bay area and see a little island directly off the shore. On small Indian Island, they will see a statue of a native man and may wonder how he came to be there. The statue was a gift from wealthy local magnate Edward Clough many years ago. It was a gift given in 1924, and the statue was of Chief Chocorua, a leader of great respect. No one could miss the statue, which measured 8 feet in height, and weighed 11,000 pounds. It was initially part of Clough’s art collection until he

gifted it to the town of Meredith to be placed on Indian Island.

For those unfamiliar with the Chocorua Legend, it is a sad tale centering around a friendship between an early settler and the mighty native leader, Chocorua. When he went on a trip, Chocorua trusted a local family of settlers with the care of his child. They were to watch over Chocorua’s young son, but upon arriving home from his trip, the native leader found his son had died from an accident and was grief-stricken. In retaliation, Chocorua killed the farmer’s family. In return, the farmer chased the chief up a nearby mountain. Rather than be taken captive, Chocorua threw himself off the mountain to his death. Thus the name of Mount Chocorua.

Sally’s Gut is another old-time lake legend. According to “Winnipesaukee Whoppers; Fabulous Legends of the Lake Once Called Winnipiseogee” by Elizabeth Crawford Wilkin, a young woman named Sally lived in Meredith. Her father, a blacksmith in the area, made runners for fish house sleds.

The blacksmith cherished Sally. She was a beautiful, popular young woman with many suitors. Living in the country, Sally was no stranger to hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities. Legend says that on a cold Sunday in November, the impulsive Becky

decided to walk from Meredith Neck and swim to Stonedam Island. What possessed her to do this dangerous thing is unknown, but she set out on her adventure with six escorts on that particular day.

Along the way, each of her escorts was harmed from such things as a broken bone from a fall, running into a tree, and other mishaps. Plunging on alone, Sally came to the shoreline and decided to take to the water. She impulsively threw off her clothes and jumped into the frigid lake. She swam to Stonedam Island and back to Meredith Neck, causing her friends to proclaim her bravery or Sally’s guts! What Sally’s protective father thought of her adventure is unknown, but perhaps he too marveled at his daughter’s courage, thus creating the name and legend of Sally’s Gut.

Bear Island is one of Winnipesaukee’s larger islands, with a good-sized summer population. Some years ago the Bear Island Association published a book called Bear Island Reflections with a history of the island.

Known for beautiful St. John’s Church-on-the-Lake, there have been summer services with guest preachers. However, there was not always a church on the island and early vaca• Yesteryear

continued on page 4

PUBLISHER

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EDITOR

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CIRCULATION

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Registration Open for Becoming an Outdoor Woman

Registration is now open for the 2023 Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) Weekend Workshop, which will take place Sept. 8 - 10 at Geneva Point Center on Lake Winnipesaukee in Moultonborough.

The workshop is for women interested in learning outdoor skills in a beau-

tiful setting. Attendees will select four sessions from more than 30 outdoor skills workshops, including archery, fishing, fly-fishing, camping, field dressing game, hiking, kayaking, rifle, shotgun, nature photography, outdoor survival, campfire cooking, and map and compass.

The $335 registration fee includes two nights of lodging plus all meals, instruction, and equipment use. Participants must be age 18 or older.

To register, visit nhbow.com. Classes fill quickly and are offered on a firstcome, first-served basis. Registration closes on July 31.

To watch a video about the BOW experience, visit https://youtu.be/K6tFoRSON50

New Hampshire’s BOW Program is co-sponsored by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (www. wildnh.com) and the New Hampshire Wildlife Federation (www.nhwf.org).

Southern Rail Rides into Wolfeboro

The next Saturday night concert in Cate Park will bring nationally known bluegrass band Southern Rail to the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand on July 22.

Southern Rail performed last year and is returning to bring its high-energy show to the bandstand for local concertgoers to enjoy again. The band offers riveting harmonies, humor, and sparkling banjo and mandolin solo work. The group’s reverence for tradition shines throughout its concerts and is reflected in its prolific songwriting.

The band features Jim Muller on guitar and lead vocals, Sharon Horovitch on acoustic bass and harmony vocals,

• Yesteryear

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tioners rowed to attend Sunday services on Meredith Neck. Islanders eventually wanted their own place of worship and set about constructing something permanent on Bear Island.

According to Bear Island Reflections, two ministers dreamed of such a

Oak Hill

Richard Stillman on banjo and harmony vocals, and John Tibert on mandolin and lead and harmony vocals.

Jim’s rich, distinctive lead vocals and offbeat humor have become one of the band’s trademarks over the years, but he also is known for his polished flat-picking and rock solid rhythm. He has been playing guitar for more than four decades.

Sharon is known for her limber bass work and her tireless energy on stage and off. She has worked with Jim on many recording projects and offers her tenor and high-baritone harmonies to the band’s sound.

Richard has been playing bluegrass

church for the island. Reverend Edward Melville Parker, Bishop of the Diocese of New Hampshire, and the Reverend Kenneth Ripley Forbes of Connecticut and Birch Island wanted a chapel to be built upon the highest point on Bear Island.

At the spot where they foresaw a chapel, a big observation tower al-

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banjo for more than three decades and has been involved in a number of influential bluegrass bands over the years. He also has numerous studio recording credits with many New England folk artists and is a past New England banjo champion.

John started playing guitar at age 14, but once he heard Dave Grisman on “Old and in the Way”, his life was never the same, as he has been addicted to bluegrass ever since. He brings fluid, lyrical mandolin-playing and superb bass vocals to the band’s sound.

Southern Rail will take to the bandstand at 7 p.m. The Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand

ready existed. It was built about 1900 and offered beautiful views of the lake and surrounding area. They realized it would be the perfect location for an island church.

In 1926, a piece of land was purchased on Bear Island for the Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire. It was the spot of the tower, which was repaired and enclosed, with a sanctuary built of local stone erected around it. Islanders donated funds to help cover the $4,000 cost of building the chapel. On July 31, 1927, the new chapel was dedicated to Bishop Edward Parker, who had died before realizing his dream.

The new and architecturally unique chapel intrigued mainlanders, and worshippers from the Weirs and other towns often arrived for island worship.

concert series is presented free of charge each Saturday night at the bandstand in Cate Park. Each concert lasts two hours with a short intermission. At intermission, there will be a pass-thebucket collection to help support the free concert series.

In the event of bad weather, check the Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand Facebook page or signs posted at the entrance to the park.

Southern Rail will return to the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand on July 22.

Services were interesting, and the atmosphere was very camp-like and rustic. Folding wooden chairs were set in rows with a hymnbook placed under a round straw cushion on each seat. Some worshippers used the straw cushions for kneeling during the services, while others sat upon the cushions. There are many islands on Lake Winnipesaukee, some large and some small, but there is nothing to rival the charm of Becky’s Island. Sally, a woman of legend, was courageous and fun-loving. Bear Island’s chapel became famous due to its unique architecture. All these spots and many more make the islands around Lake Winnipesaukee fascinating and full of legends and lore.

Grilling Fresh Fruit for Summer Enjoyment

By Kelly Ross

Those of you who read my articles from time to time know how much I love grilling fresh fruit, as they work for absolutely any course you are making, from an appetizer to dessert and everything in between. Peaches and pineapples are the best to grill, in my opinion, although I haven’t had anything bad to speak of about any fruit I’ve tried.

That being said, I am offering up a tremendous salad with a whole bunch of goodies mixed in, and, yes, grilled peaches are the main star, although other key players are chicken, pecans, and goat cheese. Also, like most salad recipes I share, it’s also all about the amazing homemade dressing that accompanies it, which could easily be a “go-to” for you for many salads in your

future. This salad eats like a meal and will easily take care of 4 - 6 of you, and you can have this made in 20 minutes. Elevate your salad game with this great tangy summer salad.

Grilled Peach Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

2 heads romaine lettuce or other lettuce of choice, washed and patted dry

4 or more medium ripe peaches

1 lb shredded rotisserie chicken, preferably breast meat

4 oz or more of pecans, chopped

4-6 oz goat cheese

1 tbsp corn oil

6 tbsp champagne vinegar

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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• ‘Cue the Grill continued from page 8

1 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 small shallot

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 tbsp honey

Salt and pepper, to taste

Finely mince the shallots. Prepare vinaigrette by mixing champagne vinegar, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, minced shallots, and Dijon mustard in a small non-reactive bowl. Whisk together until ingredients are well-combined. Set it aside. Spray grill with non-stick cooking spray and heat to medium. Cut peaches in half, leaving pit in. Brush peaches with corn oil and grill peaches, cut side down, for 3 minutes. After 3 minutes, flip and grill the other side for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat, cut into wedges after removing the pit,

and set aside. Tear romaine leaves into bite-sized chunks and place on 4 serving plates or more. Divide peaches, chicken breast, pecans, and goat cheese evenly among plates. Drizzle each plate with prepared champagne vinaigrette. Serve and enjoy! Feel free to add any other goodies to the equation if you care to.

Let’s take a walk to Burger-land, shall we? Anyone that knows me knows my love for all things New Orleans, as I truly have had more fun in that city than any I’ve been to, and more so when it comes to their style of cooking. Their restaurants blow me away with all the great flavors they have to offer. Summers scream burgers, and this one has N’awlin’s written all over it with its seasonings, as well as the sauce, which works on many things, especially with

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fried chicken and many seafoods. Plan on a half-hour or so from start to finish, and this makes 4 burgers.

Creole Burger

1 ½ lbs ground chuck

4 sliced scallions

2 tbsp Creole seasoning

¼ tsp cayenne pepper

½ cup mayo

2 tbsp chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

1 tsp Creole mustard

1 tsp hot sauce

1 tsp fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 medium-size red onion, sliced into ¼ inch rounds

1 tbsp olive oil

4 thick slices of pepperjack cheese

4 brioche hamburger buns, lightly toasted

1 cup sliced romaine lettuce heart

Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place ground chuck, scallions, Creole seasoning, and cayenne in a medium bowl. Using hands, gently combine. Shape mixture into 4 patties and place on a plate. Stir together mayo, parsley, mustard, hot sauce, and lemon juice in another bowl and set aside. Place patties on oiled grates and grill, covered, about 5 minutes per side, depending on your desired temps. While cooking them, place onion slices on grates, brush with oil, cook covered, until slightly charred and tender, about 3 minutes per side. Grill the buttered rolls while melting the cheese over the burgers. Spread 1 tbsp of the mayo mixture on the bottom half of each bun. Top each with romaine lettuce, 1 patty, and grilled onions. Cover with bun tops and serve. A great French Quarter inspired burger!

While making the burgers, or anything else off the grill for that matter, here’s a great side dish to cook on the barbie as well. Tin foil potatoes are a staple for most any backyard barbecue you are doing. Instead of the normal spuds, peppers, and onions in the foiled packs, this one has bacon, onion, and cheddar, and they are scrumptious as all get-up, and seasoned simply but perfectly. Prep time is less than a halfhour, and cooking time is about 15 minutes. This will feed 4 as a side dish.

Cheesy Grilled Potatoes with Bacon

1 lb small red potatoes

½ tsp salt

½ tsp fresh cracked black pepper

½ - ¾ tsp garlic powder

4-6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon

1 cup cheddar cheese

2-3 scallions, sliced

Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork. Place potatoes on a large microwave-safe plate, choosing potatoes that are roughly the same size to zap at a time, and cook on high for 3 - 4 minutes, or until somewhat tender but not totally soft. Let the potatoes cool enough so that you can touch them. Slice potatoes into consistently thin slices. Lay two large sheets of aluminum foil together and spray with cooking spray. Place a single layer of potatoes on top of the foil. Combine the salt, pepper and garlic powder and sprinkle ⅓ of the seasoning mixture over the potatoes. Top with ⅓ of the cheese and ⅓ of the bacon. Repeat the layers two more times

• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 11

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• ‘Cue the Grill continued from page 10

until all the potatoes, cheese, and bacon have been used. Fold up the sides of the foil and pinch the top closed. Place directly onto your grill, preheated to medium-high. Cover the grill and cook for 10 - 20 minutes, depending on how well they were precooked and how thin the slices are, until potatoes are tender all the way through. Do not turn the pack over, as you want the cheese from the top layer, as well as through all layers, to melt within. Open the foil very carefully to avoid any steam burns and sprinkle with green onions. Serve immediately.

For the seafood lover, this dish is amazing. If you have ever been a fan of clams and/or mussels, this is likely for you, although I do this dish with only clams. The principle is the same as the dozens of clam or mussel dishes done in a pan/pot with a great broth to steam the shelled gems into, as well as to add an unforgettable flavor. Sweet Italian sausage is key to this, as well white wine and garlic, onions, and fennel bulb, among so many other great herbs and flavors. This dish is perfect for 4, although you can stretch it a lit-

Perry

tle further if preferred. The whole process will take less than an hour, which includes scrubbing and cleaning the clams. This meal is a huge favorite of mine.

Drunken Clams with Sausage and Grilled Garlic Toast

4 dozen littleneck clams

2 sweet Italian sausages, about 10

oz

1 medium yellow onion

4 celery stalks

½ of small fennel bulb

6-7 small garlic cloves

1 ½ cups dry white wine

¾ cups sweet white wine, such as Muscat

10 large fresh tarragon leaves

½ cup heavy cream

1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped

4-8 slices of a good rustic, crusty country bread

Olive oil

Salt

Clean your clams and scrub off any grit. If any of them have open shells, throw them out. Remove the sausage from the casing, separating the meat into small pieces. Thinly slice the onion and fennel, chop the celery, and mince 5 of the garlic cloves, saving the

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last clove or 2 for the bread. Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in a large saucepan and cook the onions until soft. When soft, add the garlic, celery, and fennel and cook for another 4 minutes, then add the sausage meat and cook for 5 more, until the meat is nicely browned. Add

both wines and bring to a boil, then add the tarragon. Throw in the clams, cover, and cook, shaking the pot gingerly from time to time. Cook until the clams open, about 6 minutes. While the clams are cooking, make the toast. Have your grill preheated and brush each slice of bread with olive oil, being very generous and sprinkle lightly with salt, and grill each side until crispy. When done,

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rub the 2 sides of each slice with the remaining 1 - 2 cloves of garlic, depending on how many slices of bread you grill. Add the heavy cream into the clams once they open, and simmer uncovered for an additional 3 minutes. Stir in the parsley, season with pepper, spoon into bowls with heaping ladles of the broth and bites of sausage, and serve alongside your crusty bread. Pour a glass or 2 of your favorite wine or other beverage and enjoy as much as I think you will.

Lastly today, I have a dessert not soon to be forgotten by anyone who gets a chance to sink their teeth into it. We have all, at some point, likely had a brownie sundae, so think about that dessert on steroids, as this one is so over-the-top, plus will give you at least a dozen servings. It includes a “from-scratch” brownie recipe, which I find much better than store-bought, but if that’s not the choice you make,

the store box mix will work. The final product is made in a stainless bowl, lined with the brownies and filled with a homemade ice cream of sorts, and finally finished with chocolate ganache. The end result is a huge, dome-shaped ice cream-filled brownie cake where the only thing more impressive than the flavor is the presentation. Both are crazy good. Prep and cook time is little more than an hour but should be made a day in advance of serving, as it does need a bunch of freezer time.

Ice Cream Brownie Mountain Cake

For The Brownies

1 cup melted butter

2 cups sugar

3 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

2/3 cup cocoa powder

1 cup flour

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½ tsp salt

½ tsp baking powder

For The Ice Cream

1 ½ cups heavy cream 35%

1 can sweetened condensed milk, 14 oz

¾ tsp vanilla extract

Colored sprinkles, optional

For The Brownie Mountain

3 ½ -4 oz milk chocolate

¼ cup whipping cream

2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed

Chocolate sauce, sprinkle’s, cherries, chopped nuts, etc, as optional toppings

For the brownies, preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9 × 13-inch baking pan with tin foil and spray with non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar and whisk until combined. Whisk in eggs, one at a time. Stir in vanilla. Combine the co-

coa, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl, then add to the wet mix and whisk just until combined. Spread into prepared pan and bake for 25 - 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean or with moist crumbs. They need to be moist, so do not overcook them. Cool completely. For the brownie mountain, line a 2½-qt stainless bowl with plastic wrap, letting some hang over the sides. Cut brownies into small squares and press brownies into the bowl, cutting and squishing to fit. If cut into squares, they can almost be stacked on one another side-to-side, going up the bowl and just squishing them together, so to speak, forming a wall of brownie throughout the bowl from the bottom and up the sides. You won’t need all the brownies, so wrap the rest for later. For the ice cream, whip 1½ cups cream until stiff peaks form and fold in sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and sprinkles if desired. Pour into

your brownie-coated bowl until the ice cream mixture almost reaches the rim of the brownies. Freeze solid. Once solid, place remaining brownies on the top of your bowl, again squishing together as needed, which will end up being the bottom of your mountain; and again freeze until firm. As for the ganache, 45 minutes before ready to serve the cake, in a small pot, melt together chocolate bar and ¼ cup whipping cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Set it aside. Unmold your brownie mountain onto a

plate. Pour ganache over mountain. Set in the freezer for 15 - 30 minutes, until firm. Slice the cake and cover each with whipped topping, chocolate sauce, sprinkles, and cherries as desired. Serve frozen and freeze leftovers. Amazing! I hope you enjoy these, and I’ll see you back next week with some more fun with food. Enjoy the week, keep those taste buds of yours happy, and if you want to touch base with any questions or feedback, please email me at fenwaysox10@gmail.com.

All Flavors

Next to Mini Golf • Alton Bay

Through July 22, Shout! The Mod Musical, 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. matinees on 7/15, 18 & 20, Winnipesaukee Playhouse, 33 Footlight Circle, Meredith, 603279-0333, www.winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org.

Through July 31, Capturing Beauty, art exhibit, Wednesday – Friday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., The Lakes Gallery at Chi-Lin, 135 Eastman Rd., Laconia, 603-556-9384, www.thelakesgallery.com

Through July 31, The Mountains Are Calling, artwork inspired by the mountains, in wood, fiber, glass and more, Meredith League of NH Craftsmen, Rte. 3, 279 DW Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920, www.meredith.nhcrafts.org

Through Aug. 1, Painting with a Purpose art exhibit, paintings of Marc Bard, lobby of Meredith Village Savings Bank, 24 NH Rte. 25, Meredith, art sale proceeds benefit Meredith Food Pantry, 603-279-7986, https://benjylevine07.wixsite.com/paintingforapurpose.

Through Sept. 2, Tiny Treasures, Great Joys, exhibit at Sandwich Historical Society, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Thursday - Saturday, Wentworth Exhibit Room and Elisha Marston House Museum, Sandwich Historical Society, 4 Maple St., Center Sandwich, 603-284-6269, www.sandwichhistorical.org.

Through Sept. 9, Snoopy and the Red Baron, Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, info/tickets: 603-569-1212.

July 17, Comics Workshop, 4 - 6 p.m., ages 9 & up, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510.

July 17, Hill Cruise Nights, 6 - 8 p.m., cruisers, food, music & raffles, Hill General Store, 24 Commerce St., Hill, 603-934-2224.

July 17, Jack & the Beanstalk, 10 a.m., by Fairy Tale Theatre, Belknap Mill, 3rd floor, 25 Beacon St. East, downtown Laconia, 603-524-8813.

July 17, Music Night at Castle in the Clouds, performer: Colin Hart, dinner and music on the patio, Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations required: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 17, Solar Gazing, noon - 4 p.m., free, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mt. Rd., Moultonborough, pre-register suggested: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds. org

July 17, SRP Craft Program, Children’s Friendship Bracelets, 1 - 2 p.m., for ages 2-6, registration required, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895.

July 17, Story Time, 11 - 11:30 a.m., free, Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, in partnership with Moultonborough Public Library, reservations: www. castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 18, Chamber Music concert, 7 p.m., NH Music Festival, Silver Hall, Plymouth State University, Plymouth tickets: www.nhmf.org

July 18, Craft and Chat – Essential Oils for Summer, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895.

July 18, Half American: The Epic Story of African Americans Fighting WWII at Home and Abroad, 7 - 8 p.m., Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, info/tickets: 603-569-1212.

July 18, Hiking Five Finger Point, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Squam Lakes Assoc., 534 US Rt. 3, Holderness, 603-968-7336, www.squamlakes.org.

July 18, Meet the Friendly Flies, 7 - 8:30 p.m., live via Zoom, Chocorua Lake Conservancy, info: www.chocorualake.org., 603-323-6252.

July 18, Merrimack River at Risk, 6:30 p.m., Minot Sleeper Library, 35 Pleasant St., Bristol, documentary hosted by Bristol’s Sustainability Committee, 7443352.

July 18, Music Night at Castle in the Clouds, performer: Jared Steer, dinner and music on the patio, Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations required: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 18, Outdoors Nature Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510.

July 18, Red Barn Speaker Series, Digging into Native New Hampshire History 7 - 8:15 p.m., Red Barn, 41 North Shore Rd., Hebron, Newfound Lake, www.newfoundlake.org, 603-744-8689.

July 18, 19, 20, Drawing with Colored Pencils, with Martha Koons, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., 3 sessions, ArtWorks Gallery, 132 White Mt. Highway, Chocorua. Pre-register: 603-323-8041, www.chocoruaartworks.com.

July 19, A Bittersweet Stewardship Morning, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m., Brown Lot, Chocorua Lake Conservancy, info: www.chocorualake.org., 603-323-6252.

July 19, Alton Town Hall Program, 7 p.m., info on Alton Town Hall historic building, Alton Historical Society, Main St., Alton, www.altonnhhistoricalsociety.org.

July 19, Community Collaborative Mural Project, 1-2 p.m., paint a children’s mural at the library, free, Laconia Public Library, 695 Main St., Laconia, 603524-4775, www.laconialibrary.org.

July 19, Hospice Home & Garden Tour, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., four homes on tour, benefit for Granite VNA Hospice Tour, 603-230-5664, tickets: granitevna.org/ hometour.

July 19, Music on the Lawn, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., with Sandwich Rangers, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510.

July 19, Nature Station, 10 a.m. - noon, explore ecology at Grey Rocks, learn about plants and animals, make a craft, free, open to all, Newfound Lake Assoc., Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 North Shore Rd., Hebron, www.newfoundlake.org, 603-744-8689.

July 19, Polliwogs: A Seed is Sleepy, 10 - 11:30 a.m., for pre-K accompanied by an adult, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

July 19, Radio in the Park, 10 a.m., with Lakes Media, Rotary Park, 25 Beacon St. East, downtown Laconia, 603-524-8813.

July 19, Yoga on the Lawns of Lucknow, 6 - 7 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 19 & 20, Family Class, Fantasy Island Needle Felting with Patsy Frasier, 7/19: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; 7/20: 10 a.m. - noon, League of NH Craftsmen, Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, 32 Main St., Sandwich, 603-284-6831, https://centersandwich.nhcrafts.org/

July 19 & 22, Nature Station: Blending In & Standing Out, 10 a.m. - noon, Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 N. Shore Rd., Hebron, Newfound Lake, www. newfoundlake.org, 603-744-8689.

July 19-30, Kinky Boots, Interlakes Summer Theatre, One Laker Lane, Meredith, interlakestheatre@gmail.com, 603-707-6035.

July 20, An Allagash Haunting – A Radio Classic with Tim Caverly 2 - 3 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, registration required: www.moultonboroughlibrary.org., 603-476-8895.

July 20, Classical Music concert, 7 p.m., NH Music Festival, Silver Hall, Plymouth State University, Plymouth tickets: www.nhmf.org

July 20, Guided Explorations Wading with Waterbugs, 9-11 a.m., Hebron Town Forest, 184 Groton Rd., Hebron, pre-register: www.newfoundlake.org, 603744-8689.

July 20, Jewelry Workshop, 1 - 3 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations required: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 20, Land, People & Property, 10:30 a.m. - noon, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mt. Rd., Moultonborough, reservations: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org

July 20, Lisa Loeb, 7 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, 603519-7506, www.lakeportopera.com

July 20, Loon Cruise, 10 a.m. - noon, Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 North Shore Rd., Hebron, Newfound EcoTour with Loon Preservation Committee biologist, www.newfoundlake.org/EcoTours

July 20, Nature Talk, Loon Cam Recap with Bill Gassman, 7 p.m., Loon Center, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, free, 603-476-5666.

July 20, Ricky & the Giants, 6:30- 8:30 p.m., bring a lawn chair for seating, 19 Mile Beach, Tuftonboro, free, www.tuftonboro.org

July 21, Brook Walk Hike & Sketch, 2 - 4 p.m., Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations required: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 21, Dance in the Park, 10 a.m., Rotary Park, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, downtown Laconia, 603-524-8813.

July 21, Friday Family Film: Stuart Little, 2 - 3:30 p.m., Bradley Room, Wolfeboro Public Library, 259 S. Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-2428.

July 21, Live Music in Town Square, Dan Morgan Band, 6 - 9 p.m., Town Square, Waterville Valley, www.waterville.com or call 1-800-GO-VALLEY.

July 21, Lucknow Garden Tour, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 21, Music in the Park, open mic concerts, sign up: 5:30 p.m., music starts at 6 p.m., free, Hesky Park, Rte. 3, Meredith, all musicians welcome, bring chairs, picnics, snacks, 603-533-5490, kitty@metrocast.net. Weekly through Sept. 1.

July 21, No Shoes Nation Band, 8 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, 603-519-7506, www.lakeportopera.com

July 21, Outdoor Concert, Center Harbor Bandstand, downtown, 7 p.m., bring your own lawn chair, free, 603-253-4561.

July 21, Summer Reading Event – Support Our Pollinators with Jerry Schneider, 2 - 3 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, registration required: www.moultonboroughlibrary.org., 603-476-8895.

July 21, Surprise Storyteller & Free Books, 1-2 p.m., free, tales from the storyteller in the Library Garden, with surprise storyteller, for newborns to age 12, Laconia Public Library, 695 Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, www.laconialibrary. org.

July 21, Tod Squad Penny Carnival, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., activities for toddlers, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895.

July 21 & 22, John Davidson at Club Sandwich, 7 p.m., 12 Main St., Center Sandwich, admission/ https://www.johndavidson.com/weekendshows

Trolley Shuttle and Trolley Tours

July 22, Caterpillar Count, 2 - 4 p.m., Squam Lakes Assoc., Holderness, pre-registration: www.squamlakes.org, 603-968-7336.

July 22, Chris Bonoli, outdoor summer concert series, 7 - 9 p.m., free, Alton Bay Bandstand, Rte. 11, Alton Bay, bring a chair and enjoy the music, in case of rain cancellation by 2 p.m. day of concert: 603-875-0109.

July 22, Family Picnic: A Fundraiser for the Science Center, 5 - 8 p.m., celebrate pollinators, feature animal programs, food trucks, ice cream, kid’s corner and more, limited tickets: www.nhnature.org/picnic, 603-968-7194.

July 22, Forest Trail Games for Kids & Adults, 10 a.m. - noon, age 6 to adults, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.

July 22, Hebron Gazebo Concert, North River Band, folk, rock & country music, 6 p.m., barbecue by Hebron Village Store, in the village, 603-744-3335.

July 22, Hikers Club: Oak Ridge, 8 - 9:30 a.m., free, Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, reservations required: www.castleintheclouds.org, 603-476-5900.

July 22, Light Up Your Words, 9 a.m. - noon, SWITCHcraft with League juried member Deb Fairchild, workshop for middle school students, League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, info/pre-registration required: 603-279-7920.

July 22, Live Music in Town Square, Diversity Duo, 6 - 9 p.m., Town Square, Waterville Valley, www.waterville.com or call 1-800-GO-VALLEY.

July 22, Mushroom Walk, 10 a.m. - noon, Brewster Heath Preserve, Wentworth Watershed, info.: 603-534-0222, info@wentworthwatershed.org.

July 22, Nature Station, 10 a.m. - noon, explore ecology at Grey Rocks, learn about plants and animals, make a craft, free, open to all, Newfound Lake Assoc., Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 North Shore Rd., Hebron, www.newfoundlake.org, 603-744-8689.

July 22, Ossipee Lake DockFest, noon - 8 p.m., cruise, paddle or sail around Ossipee Lake, enjoy bands playing along the way on private docks, yards, porches, garages on the shore, free, info: 603-651-1600, http://www.facebook.com/ossipeelakedockfest.

July 22, Saturday Afternoon Music Series, music by Garrett Smith, on the patio, 3 - 6 p.m., Gunstock Mt. Resort, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-2934341, www.gunstock.com.

July 22, Southern Rail Outdoor Concert, 7 - 9 p.m., free, Cate Park, Wolfeboro, 603-569-2200.

July 22, The Garcia Project, 8 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, info/tickets: 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com.

July 22, The Jersey Tenors, 8 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, 603-519-7506, www.lakeportopera.com

July 22, The Magic of Abba featuring Abbacadabra, 7:30 - 10 p.m., Castle in the Clouds/Concerts in the Clouds, Moultonborough, Great Waters Music Festival, tickets/www.greatwaters.org

July 22, 3rd Annual Blueberry Festival, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., pick blueberries, shop with artist and craftspeople, free admission, Keenan Family Farm, 79 Upper By Rd., Sanbornton, www.keenanfamilyfarm.business.site

July 22, Walking Tour with Dr. John Foley, 10 a.m., meets at Wolfeboro Train Station, Wolfeboro Historical Society, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org.

July 22, Why Fly When You Can Walk With Flies, 10 a.m. - noon, at Charlotte C. Brown Woods, Chocorua Lake Conservancy, info: www.chocorualake.org., 603-323-6252.

July 22 & 23, Lakes Region Waterski Open, 8 am, Bridge Falls Path & Glendon St. parking lot, Wolfeboro, www.abenakiwaterskiclub.com.

July 22 & 23, Roald Dahl’s Matilda Jr. the Musical, 11 a.m., Interlakes Summer Theatre, One Laker Lane, Meredith, interlakestheatre@gmail.com, 603-707-6035.

July 22 & 23, Stone Wall Workshop, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., led by master artisan and mason, Kevin Fife, Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, pre-register: 783-9511, www.shakers.org.

July 22-Aug. 5, Agatha Christie The Stranger, Barnstormers, summer theatre, 104 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8500, www.barnstormerstheatre.org

July 23, Allen James Trio concert, 4 - 5 p.m., bring picnic/lawn chair, enjoy music on the green, donations encouraged, Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, 603-783-9511, www.shakers.org

July 23, Lakes Region Rotary Charity Car Show, 10 a.m - 2 p.m., 70 North Endicott St, Laconia, charity event, 603-455-4853, www.lakesregionrotary.org/ carshow/

July 23, Watermelon Slim, 7 p.m., Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323-6169, www.thefarmstand.net.

July 24, Chamber Music Concert, 7 p.m., by NH Music Festival, Gilford Community Church, Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, tickets: www.nhmf.org

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

ONGOING

Adult Oil Painting, Mondays, 9 a.m. - noon, no experience necessary, drop-in group, Ossipee Town Hall, Ossipee, Pat Jones: pjonesossipee3@gmail.com.

Advice To The Players, the works of Shakespeare via performances, camps and more, Sandwich, info: www.advicetotheplayers.org

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

Barnstead Farmers’ Market, Saturdays 9 a.m. - 1 .pm., food, crafts, music, 1 West Parade Rd., Barnstead, www.barnsteadfarmersmarket.com.

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

Bristol Farmers Market, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturdays, Millstream Park, Rte. 3A, Bristol, 603-273-1058.

Canterbury Community Farmers Market, 4 - 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, next to Elkins Library, Canterbury, baked goods, produce, crafts, live music, www. canterburyfarmersmarket.com.

Canterbury Shaker Village, tours, programs, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, 603-7839511, www.shakers.org

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

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

Chocorua Lake Basin View Lot, mountain views, benches for seating, free, www.chocorualake.org.

Clark Museum Complex, 233 S. Main St., Wolfeboro, historic Clark home, schoolhouse, fire station and barn, through Sept. 1, Wednestday – Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org

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

Cruise with a Naturalist, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3 p.m., learn about history of Squam Lake, see wildlife, get info from naturalist, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, tickets/info: www.nhnature.org, 603-968-7194.

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

Discover Squam Cruises, daily at 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. (on Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday also at 3 p.m.), cruise to look for and learn about loons, tickets/info: www. nhnature.org, 603-968-7194.

Drawing with Tom Hitchcock, 10 a.m. - noon, class open to all aspiring artists, age 12 and up, pre-register: 603-496-6768, Lakes Region Art Assoc. Gallery, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, 120 Laconia Rd., Tilton.

Franklin Community Farmers’ Market, 3 - 6 p.m., Thursdays through September 4, Central St., Franklin; produce, food, crafts, live music, 603-934-3229, www.franklinnh.org/parks-recreation/pages/franklin-farmers-market

Friday Night Market, 5 - 8 p.m., farm goods, crafts, rotating food trucks, live music, brews, and more, Hobbs Tap Room, 765 Rt. 16, Ossipee, every Friday until Labor Day weekend, hobbsmarket@gmail.com.

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

Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, meets second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro. A second group meets first and third Tuesday of each month at Community Center, 22 Lehner St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net

Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, youth and adult sailing lessons, sailing competitions, Gilford, www.lwsa.org, 603-589-1177.

Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org

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

League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, handmade crafts and art for sale, workshops, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920. Libby Museum, of Natural History, Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday, noon - 4 p.m., closed Mondays, 755 N. Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1035.

Live Music, Gilmanton Farmers’ Market, Sundays, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., 1385 NH Rte. 140, on lawn of Gilmanton Year Round Library, Gilmanton Iron Works, www.gilmantonfarmersmarket.com

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

What’s UP

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

Loon Cruise, Mondays & Fridays, 3 p.m., learn about and look for loons on Squam Lake, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, tickets/info: www.nhnature.org, 603-968-7194.

Market on Main, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., every Wednesday through Oct. 11, produce, artisan goods, food trucks and more, 117 Main St., Alton, www.altonmarketonmain.com

Model Yachting - Back Bay Skippers, meets every Tuesday & Thursday, May - October, 1 - 4 p.m., model yacht group, spectators welcome, Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Glendon St., Wolfeboro, NH Boat Museum, 603-569-4554.

Molly the Trolley, 603-569-1080, tours/rides of Wolfeboro area aboard the fun trolley, info/schedules: www.wolfeborotrolley.com

M/S Mount Washington Cruises, narrated cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee, day & evening cruises, M/S Mount Washington, 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, 603-366-BOAT, www.cruisenh.com

Newfound Lake Eco-Tours, informative/scientific tours of Newfound Lake, Newfound Lake Association, www.newfoundlake.org, 603-744-8689.

New Durham Farmers’ Market, 1 - 6 p.m., Saturday, Depot Rd. next to Post Office, New Durham, 603-515-1249, www.newdurhamfarmersmarket.com

New England Racing Museum, 922 NH Rte. 106 N., Loudon, www.NEMSMUSEUM.com

NH Boat Museum, boating exhibits, programs, boat building workshops, 399 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org

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

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

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

Quilting Group, 1 - 4 p.m., meets every 2 weeks on Thursdays until Sept. 7, Ossipee Public Library, 74 Main St., Ossipee, schedule: 603-539-6390.

Quimby Barn Transportation Museum, Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., through Columbus Day, early transportation wagons, snow roller, fire truck, Concord Coach and more, Maple St., Sandwich, 603-284-6269.

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

Solar Gazing, noon - 4 p.m., free, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, registration: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org. (Every Mon. through Aug. 28)

Song and Jam Circle, community-created jams and song circle, third Monday of each month, Runnells Hall, 25 Deer Hill Rd., Tamworth, free, bring your favorite instruments, Arts Council of Tamworth, 603-584-2712, www.artstamworth.org

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

Tamworth Farmer’s Market, Saturdays, 10 a.m. - noon, 30 Tamworth Road, Tamworth, www.tamworthfarmersmarket.org

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

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

Turtle Talk, 11 a.m. every Tuesday through end of August, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, info: 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org

Up Close to Animals, daily program, meet live animals and learn all about them, at the amphitheater, 10 a.m. - noon and 2 p.m., through Labor Day and on weekends through Columbus Day, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.org.

Wakefield/Brookfield Historical Society, meetings second Tuesday of each month until October, most meetings held at Schoolhouse, 2851 Wakefield Rd., with October meeting held at Brookfield Town House, programs on the history of Wakefield/Brookfield, everyone welcome, 603-522-6713.

Wakefield Marketplace, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., produce, fruit, baked goods, flowers, handmade items and more, Rte. 16 north and Wakefield Rd., Wakefield, schedule: www.wakefieldmarketplace.org.

Wolfeboro Farmers’ Market, Thursdays until Oct. 26, noon - 3:30 p.m., local farm-raised meats, vegetables, fresh fish, fruit, eggs, baked goods, flowers, maple syrup, honey, artisanal products, held at The Nick, 10 Trotting Track Rd., Wolfeboro, 603-391-5661, wolfeborofarmersmarket@gmail.com.

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

Funspot: The Ultimate Gaming Destination

By Jessica Caputo

Laconia is home to a hidden gem that has been entertaining and captivating gamers of all ages for decades. Funspot, a renowned arcade and entertainment complex, has become a must-vis-

it destination for locals and tourists. With its vast array of classic and modern games, unique attractions, and rich history, Funspot offers an unparalleled gaming experience.

Funspot opened its doors in 1952 as

the Weirs Sports Center, a humble 10lane bowling alley. Over the years, the establishment expanded its offerings, transforming into the iconic hub for gaming enthusiasts that we know today.

Under the visionary leadership of Bob Lawton, Funspot grew into one of the largest arcades in the world, attracting gamers from far and wide. Funspot’s commitment to providing a top-notch gaming experience has earned it recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2016, as the “World’s Largest Arcade.” More information about the record is at guinnessworldrecords.com.

Funspot boasts an impressive collection of more than 600 arcade games, from classic titles like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Space Invaders to modern hits. It also has a 20-lane 10-pin and candlepin bowling center, cash

bingo, indoor mini-gold, a restaurant, and a tavern, providing something for everyone. The arcade is meticulously maintained, ensuring that each game provides an authentic and enjoyable experience.

One of the highlights of Funspot is its selection of retro games. The 300game Classic Arcade section takes visitors on a nostalgic journey, allowing them to relive the golden age of gaming. The ambience of neon lights, the clinking of tokens, and the excitement of beating high scores transports players back in time.

Beyond the arcade, Funspot offers a range of other attractions. The 10-pin and candlepin bowling alleys provide a fun-filled experience for families and groups of friends. The indoor mini-golf • Funspot continued on page 21

INSTALLATION | REMOVAL | REPAIRS

Lake Shore Dr. • Moultonboro, NH 603-253-4000 • www.centerharbordocks.com

• Funspot continued from page 20

course, dubbed “The Hobo Hills Adventure Golf,” offers a whimsical and challenging journey through beautifully designed holes.

Funspot also is a hub for competitive gaming and tournaments, with numerous events throughout the year that draw both casual and professional gamers wanting to showcase their skills. From high-score competitions to elaborate gaming tournaments, Funspot provides a platform for players to engage in friendly competition and earn recognition for their abilities.

Among the tournaments, every year, Funspot plays host to the American Classic Arcade Museum (ACAM) Classic Game Fest, attracting players from across the country. The festival celebrates the history of gaming and features an array of tournaments, guest speakers, and exhibits that showcase the evolution of arcade games. For

Veteran

more information about the American Classic Arcade Museum (ACAM) Classic Game Fest, see classicarcademuseum.org.

Funspot’s significance goes beyond being an entertainment center. It has become an integral part of the local community, supporting various charitable initiatives and events. The arcade has actively contributed to local fundraisers, scholarship programs, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of others.

One of Funspot’s notable contributions is its dedication to preserving gaming history. The American Classic Arcade Museum, located within Funspot, showcases a vast collection of vintage arcade machines and memorabilia. The museum aims to teach visitors about the cultural significance of arcade gaming and its impact on popular culture.

In essence, Funspot is not just an arcade; it’s a beloved destination that has become a fundamental part of La-

conia’s community. With its remarkable gaming offerings, commitment to preserving gaming history, and active involvement in charitable initiatives,

and generations.

Funspot continues to entertain, inspire,

and bring joy to gamers of all ages

TwinDesigns: An Experience You Will Treasure

By Mark Okrant

When was the last time you had a completely unexpected, joy-filled experience? This is precisely what happened to us when we walked in the door of Bristol’s TwinDesigns store several days ago. We didn’t have to wait very long for the surprises to begin. Positioned just inside the doorway was a six-foot tall green and gold wooden turtle. All around us, covering every square foot of wall and shelf space, were treasures guaranteed to make every child—and lots of us adults, too— very happy.

Our reaction was precisely what the owners receive from every visitor to TwinDesigns, situated in a red brick front building at 8 Central Square in

Bristol. Within moments after entering the store and gazing at the erstwhile turtle, we were greeted by fraternal twins, Jim and Brad Tonner (pronounced TOE-ner). The pair exude more energy and good humor than a boatload of Disney characters.

TwinDesigns is filled with items that reflect the brothers’ passion for life. Near the door is a display of children’s books . . . but not just any children’s titles. A colorful array of titles such as “The Mountains Are Calling,” “Let’s be Nice,” “The Lake is Calling and I Must Go,” and everyone’s favorite, “Diane the Turtle,” have been written by Jim and Brad, then illustrated by Brad. Each of these books—and the store as a whole—is like a passport to

a happy place.

I was very curious to investigate this incredible place, but something was preempting my exploration . . . it was the brothers themselves. Near the back of the store, Jim and Brad were preparing to hold court. They had a number of stories to tell and knew from experience that they would fascinate us. First came an account that Jim had shared countless times over more than a quarter of a century.

Apparently, he had been bedridden as a young boy. To keep him from being bored as he lay there in traction, family members had rigged a pulley system outside his window. This made it possible for his family, friends, and neighbors to impart gifts while Jim lay there. It was during one such episode that fate intervened. At some point, one anonymous donor placed a ten-cent painted turtle in the basket.

The brothers love to take first-time

visitors on a tour of their store. As you move among the well-stocked aisles, they bring you to an enlargement of an old black and white photograph of two women in a canoe; the twins’ mother is in the bow and her sister in the stern. Not seen in the photo is the aunt’s daughter Diane. Diane was so good to • Twin Designs continued on page 23

Jim during his recovery that he named his turtle after her.

This little reptile has proven to be very different from the ones that many of us owned as children. Our tiny turtles perished within weeks of their arrival, only to be flushed down the nearest toilet. This one is alive and well more than one-half century later, weighing more than three pounds! More amazing still is the celebration that accompanies Diane the Turtle. It doesn’t take very long to feel like you’ve known Jim and Brad for years. Of course, they can’t wait to introduce you to Diane the Turtle in the little side room where she sunbathes, swims, and dines on lettuce, strawberries, and blueberries. The walls leading to the room, within her room, and throughout much of the store are adorned with photos of Diane and her visiting fans. Diane, you soon learn, has a huge media following. A webcam strategically mounted inside her little room streams Diane’s live image to fans worldwide on www. DianetheTurtle.com. How popular is Diane? She has her own Diane the Tur-

tle Facebook page with more than two thousand followers. When the brothers hosted her fiftieth birthday celebration on December 15th of 2018, the store was completely packed, while others waited outside in the cold to pay their respects to the turtle. She has been celebrated by the media, including the Boston Chronicle program and Concord Monitor newspaper. Also, the brothers are only too happy to send you on your way with an image called “Flat Diane,” while encouraging you to take your picture with the image from anywhere in the world and send it to their store. Thousands have done exactly that.

Readers might ask, aside from Diane and the Tonner brothers who exude the joy of life through their banter and wonderful laughter, what else of interest will one find inside the walls of TwinDesigns? The short answer is EVERYTHING. Taking inventory of the items in the store is close to impossible. In one quick sweep with my eyes, I spotted a beautiful bubbling pond with two very large goldfish swimming about. There were mugs, magnets, trivets, and playing cards bearing images of loons, bears, moose, and—of course—Diane herself. Towels and

hats promoted Newfound Lake, a nearby attraction. Next were games, magic tricks, children’s toys and a large pile of plush stuffed animals—everything from turtles (of course) to fish, bears, dinosaurs, and hedgehogs. There were steel puzzles, bells with a turtle theme, and bins with glass “diamonds,” marbles, glass animals, and gemstones. In short, this place has something for kids of all ages.

What I appreciated most about TwinDesigns was the brothers’ obvious mission itself. Jim and Brad clearly are not concerned about pushing cus-

tomers to spend money in the store. Rather, they are too busy making everyone who enters feel good. Whether taking people to meet Diane, showing off old family videos and photographs on a closed-circuit system, or introducing everyone to their two Persian cats, Grace and Harry, the brothers live to share their happy experiences.

Readers, if you are looking for a delightful, one-of-a-kind experience, you must visit TwinDesigns. And, while you are there, please be sure to say hello to Jim, Brad, Diane, Grace, and Harry for me.

Guided Paddle of Newfound Water Trail

Join the Newfound Lake Region Association and renowned ecologist Rick Van de Poll, Ph.D. for a guided paddle on the Northern Newfound Water Trail, Tuesday, August 1, at 9 am. Paddlers will meet at Grey Rocks Conservation Area and launch their non-motorized boats to explore the amazing diversity present at the northern end of Newfound, including the mouth of the Cockermouth River and the Hebron Marsh. There’s always something exciting to see, with wildlife such as loons, eagles, osprey, beaver, moose, bear, and numerous species of turtles and frogs all present in this area. This is a members-only event

and registration is required. Register online at NewfoundLake.org/events or call 603-744-8689.

Rick Van de Poll is the principal of Ecosystem Management Consultants and has created biological inventories for over 350,000 acres of land, including Grey Rocks Conservation Area. In 2016 NLRA worked with Van de Poll to create the Northern Newfound Water Trail Map and Guide, which points boaters to areas of interest and describes their ecological value and attributes. The Water Trail Map can be found online at NewfoundLake.org or at the kiosk at Grey Rocks Conservation Area.

NLRA works to protect the high-quality waters of Newfound Lake and its watershed, maintaining a healthy and diverse ecosystem. NLRA members support educational programming like guided hikes and pad-

dles, water quality monitoring, land conservation, stormwater management, and invasive species monitoring. Learn more about conservation efforts and become a member at NewfoundLake.org

Tuftonboro Grange Penny Sale

Coupon

one sheet of raffle coupons for $3, or two for $5.

The Penny Sale offers an evening of fun, friendship, and camaraderie. Beverages will be available.

Family Craft Class Being Offered

The Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, which is a founding member of the League of NH Craftsmen, is offering a Family Fantasy Island Needle Felting Class on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, July 19 - 20.

Families, including children six years of age and up, will be able to create with needle-felt a fantasy island playscape or diorama, approximately 15 x 22 inches in size. Plenty of felting tools will be available for everyone to use during the class.

On the first day, the group will create the island and some features, such as a pond, flowers, a shelter, and paths. Returning on day two, participants will make a tree, some rocks or bushes, an animal, and a person or two. Everyone

works on different parts and then combines everything into one interactive project.

The class has been purposefully designed in two sessions so as not to try to do too much with the younger children in one day, and to leave afternoons free. It is a wonderful opportunity for a family with children ages six and up to work together to design and craft a unique project.

More details on the class, including tuition and materials costs and registration information, are on the gallery’s website (centersandwich.nhcrafts.org), by calling 603-284-6831, or by visiting the League of NH Craftsmen Gallery at 32 Main St. in the historic village of Center Sandwich.

The Mountains Are Calling

Wrap It Up at Meredith Gallery

The League of NH Craftsmen in Meredith, NH – is proud to present its latest exhibition “Wrap It Up… Bamboo Shawls & Scarves”

by Doug Masury, showcasing his beautiful scarves and shawls.

Wrap yourself up in the luxurious and unique styles of Doug Masury’s bamboo scarves and shawls! This New England fabric artist has captured the essence of nature’s beauty in his beautiful designs made from the finest bamboo fibers. Each piece is a work of art, hand dyed, and hand woven.

From vibrant colors to subtle hues, his scarves and shawls are a perfect accent to any outfit, and will keep you cozy and comfortable all year round. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your wardrobe or searching for the perfect gift for someone special, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the exquisite craftsmanship of Doug Masury’s bam-

boo scarves and shawls, available at the League of New Hampshire Craftsman in Meredith. Wrap It Up and feel the beauty and warmth that only Doug Masury can provide!

This is a free event.

For more details, visit our website at http://meredith.nhcrafts.org and our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/nhcraft/

The League of NH Craftsmen is a non-profit organization that encourages and promotes the creation, use and preservation of fine contemporary and traditional hand craft. The League represents the signature of excellence in fine craft, through the work of its juried members, and its rigorous standards for self-expression, vision, and quality craftsmanship.

SCAN FOR BOAT RENTALS

SCAN FOR INVENTORY SCAN FOR BOAT CLUB

Household Hazardous Waste: A Common Problem, A Simple Solution

There are many toxic materials that exist right inside many Lakes Region homes. These toxic materials are known as “hazardous wastes” which are substances that poison or contaminate the environment and threaten the health of those in the local community

Look under your kitchen or bathroom sink, at the basement workbench, in the garage or garden shed – wherever you store cleaning products, home and vehicle maintenance items, or garden chemicals. If a product label says “danger”, “warning”, “toxic”, or “caution”, the product contains ingre-

dients that are flammable, poisonous, will burn the skin and eyes, or react violently with other chemicals.

On Saturday, July 29 and Saturday, August 5, twenty-four communities will participate in one of the longest running and most successful household hazardous waste collection programs in New England. Four collection sites will be open on July 29 (Belmont, Franklin, Gilford, and Meredith) and three more collection sites will be open on August 5 (Bristol, Laconia, and Moultonborough). All sites will be open from 8:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.

Every year since 1986, the LRPC (Lakes Region Planning Commission) has coordinated annual household hazardous waste collections for communities throughout the Lakes Region interested in participating in the shared collection program.

Residents and residential property owners in the 24 participating communities may bring up to ten gallons or 50 pounds of household hazardous products in for safe disposal. The participating communities for the collection are: Alexandria, Andover, Belmont, Bridgewater, Bristol, Center Harbor,

Effingham, Franklin, Freedom, Gilford, Gilmanton, Hebron, Hill, Holderness, Laconia, Meredith, Moultonborough, New Hampton, Ossipee, Sanbornton, Sandwich, Tamworth, Tilton and Tuftonboro.

Note: This year we will not be collecting fluorescent lamps (tubes and CFLs), batteries, or mercury-containing devices such as thermometers and thermostats. Information on collection sites, accepted materials, and other disposal options can be found at http:// www.lakesrpc.org/serviceshhw.asp, or by calling LRPC at 279-8171.

Keep NH’s Forests Safe and Healthy – Leave Camping Firewood at Home

The N.H. Division of Forests and Lands is reminding everyone who will be camping this summer that one of the easiest ways to keep our state’s forests healthy is to leave campfire wood at home and to purchase it locally when they arrive at their destination. Studies by the NHDFL have shown that all untreated campfire wood carries insects and averages 35 insects in each stick. When this wood is transported from one region to another, it increases the chances of spreading invasive insects that have “hitchhiked,” heighten-

ing risks to forest health in places where those pests had not yet been present.

“Firewood is a major vector of new pests spreading to healthy forests,” said Kyle Lombard, program director for the NHDFL’s Forest Health Program. “Harmful species from the smallest flies to the largest longhorn beetles can be found in firewood.”

Campers are encouraged to look for firewood that has been harvested and gathered locally once they arrive at their destination. Most N.H. State Parks sell wood for campfires that has been

kiln-dried, which eliminates all pests.

“Packing for a camping trip can be overwhelming, so give yourself a break by making that task – and your load – lighter: don’t bring firewood with you,” said Lombard. “That opens up more room in your vehicle for s’mores, games and other items that will make your trip one to remember for all the right reasons.”

To find a local provider of firewood, visit firewoodscout.org. For more information about insects and firewood, visit NHBugs.org.

Family Picnic at Science Center

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center holds the 2023 Family Picnic on Saturday, July 22 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The Family Picnic celebrates pollinators, nature’s mighty winged creatures, and features live animal programs, lawn games, live music, food

trucks, ice cream, kids’ corner of activities, and more in a fun, casual atmosphere.

All food and drinks are included in the ticket price and include food from Cheese Louise, Good Eatz 603, Koz’s Haute Box, Joye-ful Cookiery, Sub-

My Three Promises To You!

Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream, and more. Open bar features local beer, wine, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic butterfly nectar for the kids.

Entertainment includes live animal programs, live music by the Audrey Drake Trio, lawn games, SubZero Nitrogen Ice Cream demonstrations, and activities for the kids including making pollinator seed bombs, herbal iced tea party, crafts, and more.

Bring your friends and the entire family to this fun-filled event. Tickets are limited: $75/ ages 21+; $20/ ages 12-20; $10/ages 6-11; Free for 5 and under. Ticket purchases help to support the care and feeding of the live animal ambassadors and environmental education programs at the Science Center.

For more information about this event and tickets please visit www.nh-

New Hampshire’s Division of Forests and Lands is part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. NHDFL’s mission is to protect and promote the values provided by trees, forests and natural communities. This mission is accomplished through responsible management of the state’s forested resources; by providing forest resource information and education to the public; and through the protection of these resources for the continuing benefit of the state’s citizens, visitors, and forest industry. Learn more at nh.gov/nhdf

nature.org/picnic.

The 2023 Family Picnic is generously sponsored by Bridgewater Power Company; Dunkin’ Plymouth, Ashland, Campton, and Lincoln; East Coast Foundation; Holderness Harbor; Lakes Region Tent & Event; Lithermans Limited Brewing; Meredith Village Savings Bank; Moat Mountain Brewing Company; New England Commercial Solar; Samyn-D’Elia Architects; Squam Lakes Financial Advisors; Twin Barns Brewing Company; Lisa and Bill Aulet; Carol and Marc Bard; Kevin and Nancy Barrett; Sarah and Win Brown; Edmund & Betsy Cabot Charitable Foundation; Peter and Sue Francesco; Diane Garfield and Peter Gross; Barbara Nan Grossman; Carol and Rob Stewart; and Pam and Larry Tarica.