June Events and Deals in NH’s Lakes Region

Not only will the start of the summer season bring perfect swimming, hiking, biking, and boating weather to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, but it will also bring favorite annual events like tent sales, sailboat races, and the famous Laconia Motorcycle Week, which will be celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.

In the beginning of the month, there is a romantic getaway package being offered by the Lighthouse Inn Bed & Breakfast in Laconia. For visitors wishing to attend the New England Brewfest at the end of June, the Kancamagus Lodge in Lincoln is offering a fantastic package deal.

Some of the events happening in the Lakes Region this June include:
• Bald Eagle Adventure Cruises at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. Each Tuesday through June 25. View these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.
• 1920’s Lawn Party – June 6 at the Castle in the Clouds. Guests will don hats, gloves, and vintage attire to be transported in time for an afternoon.
• Laconia Motorcycle Week – June 8-16. Hundreds of thousands of riders from the nation and the world travel to Laconia every year to experience this week full of motorcycle events and culture.
• Pre-Summer Craft Show at the Tanger Outlets in Tilton, NH. June 22-23. The show will feature over 80 crafters and will be held rain or shine. Free parking and admission.
• Soling One-Meter National Championship at the NH Boat Museum in Wolfeboro, NH. June 22-23. 36 sailboat races are scheduled throughout this two-day event. Register to race online or come to watch on the day of the event.
• New England Brewfest at the Lincoln Village Shops in Lincoln, NH. June 29. Breweries from across New England gather for sampling with live entertainment, craft beer education programs, great food, and exhibits offering brew paraphernalia and souvenirs.
• Summer Kickoff at the Annalee Outlet in Meredith, NH. June 29. Annalee offers their signature brand of dolls and keepsakes at extremely low prices at their annual tent sale.
Continued…

These are only some of the events that will be kicking off the summer season in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. For more Lakes Region events, visit the event calendar or LakesRegion.org.

The Lakes Region Tourism Association is the official tourism board of the region, representing close to 100 communities, 273 lakes and ponds, and more than 400 businesses in central New Hampshire, including area attractions, restaurants, retail establishments and accommodations. For more information or visitors guides, visit LakesRegion.org, facebook.com/NHLakesRegion or follow on Twitter. The LRTA office is at Exit 20 on Route 3 in Tilton, and it can be reached by calling (800) 60-LAKES.

HOBO RAILROAD LAUNCHES NEW ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR 2013

Partners with Squam Lakes Natural Science Center and Bank of New Hampshire to offer unique Nature by Rail program!

Officials at the Hobo Railroad in Lincoln, NH and Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness, NH announced today they have partnered with Bank of New Hampshire to offer a unique and entertaining environmental education program called “Nature by Rail” in June, July and August this year. Utilizing the Hobo Railroad as a “rolling classroom”, the environmentally-based program will be presented by Instructors from Squam Lakes Natural Science Center.

“Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is thrilled by this new partnership with the Hobo Railroad ,” said Amy Yeakel, Education Program Director at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. “It provides a fun and engaging way to reach audiences with information about New Hampshire’s natural world. The trains pass through beautiful and wild areas that will be wonderful for passengers to learn about and appreciate. We are grateful to Bank of NH for their support and to the Hobo Railroad for such a strong collaboration.”

Thanks to the generosity of Bank of New Hampshire, the Nature by Rail program will be available to everyone who purchases tickets aboard the 11:00am, 1:00pm or 3:00pm trains on three Saturdays this summer – June 29th; July 13th and August 10th. Instructors from Squam Lakes Natural Science Center will share information regarding the wildlife and vegetation that surround the train as guests of all ages relax and enjoy the program in the comfort of the Hobo Railroad’s restored vintage coaches.

“Bank of New Hampshire is proud to partner with both the Hobo Railroad and Squam Lakes Natural Science Center to bring New Hampshire residents and visitors this unique opportunity,” stated Tony Ilacqua, Lincoln Banking Office Manager for Bank of New Hampshire. “It is partnerships such as this that help to stimulate the local economy and offer new and exciting programs to families and organizations of all kinds.”

The one hour and twenty minute excursions will take passengers through a woodsy setting and along the banks of the winding Pemigewasset River. As part of this landmark program, guests will also be treated to a twenty minute live animal presentation, also taught by the Instructors from Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, at the Hobo Railroad’s Choo Choo Theater at 12:30pm and 2:30pm each of the days the Nature by Rail program is offered.

“All of us here at the Railroad are genuinely excited to be able to offer this experience to our guests. It’s a tremendous way to showcase New Hampshire’s scenic beauty and ecological diversity aboard a moving train”, stated Benjamin Clark, Vice President of the Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad.

In addition to the Nature by Rail program, the Hobo Railroad offers a variety of special events and daily excursions for the general public, school groups and bus tours from May through late October, along with Dinner Trains and Fall Foliage tours. The Hobo Railroad also offers a full schedule of Santa Express Trains and operates the Polar Express in support of the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation from the Friday following Thanksgiving through the week prior to Christmas each year.

The Hobo Railroad is located in the village of Lincoln, NH, just off Exit 32 on I-93, left on Route 112, directly across from McDonalds. For more information regarding the Nature by Rail program, advance ticket sales, train schedules or special events taking place at the Hobo Railroad in 2013, visit www.HoboRR.com or call Paul Giblin at 603-745-2135.

Mount Washington Cog Railway Photo Workshop Series Starts June 10

The Mount Washington Cog Railway, famous for climbing the highest peak in the Northeast, is kicking off the first in a series of photo workshop tours on Monday, June 10.

This full day excursion open to all skill levels includes a round trip ticket to the summit, instructional sessions with a professional photographer and free admission to the Mount Washington Observatory Museum. Opportunities abound at the base, from the train and at the summit to shoot everything from dramatic landscapes to historic locales to nature and wildlife.

The instructor will tailor the workshop to cover the interests of those attending. “We expect these workshops to be very popular, because they give people who love taking pictures an opportunity to experience a part of Mount Washington that is truly unique,” said Cathy Bedor, one of the owners of the Cog.

Limited space is available for all tours. Additional tours will be offered 7/8, 8/26, and 9/9. For event details, please visit www.thecog.com. For inquiries, contact Cog Railway events at 603.278.2255. Please book in advance by calling 800.922.8825 or 603.278.5404. The Mount Washington Cog Railway is located on Base Station Road, Marshfield Station, NH.

Wildcat & Attitash Mountain Offer Father’s Day Specials Sunday, June 16

On Father’s Day, Sunday, June 16, all dads can enjoy a free Scenic Gondola ride at Wildcat Mountain and a half-price general admission to the attractions at Attitash Mountain Resort.

Fathers can ride New Hampshire’s highest Scenic Gondola at Wildcat for free when one or more other family members purchase an adult or junior ride ticket. The only one of its kind in North America, the Wildcat Express transforms from a high-speed summit quad chairlift during the winter and spring skiing and riding season to the state’s highest summer and fall scenic ride. The enclosed 4-person Scenic Gondola offers a unique guest experience and opportunity to view Mt. Washington and the Presidential Range from atop the over 4,000 foot summit. It is a great way for the entire family, including well-behaved dogs on leash, to enjoy the legendary views and scenery that have been consistently voted #1 in the East.

At Attitash Mountain Resort, fathers can purchase a half-price 48” & taller general admission when one or more other family members purchase a 48” & taller or under 48” general admission. Families can enjoy the many summer attractions available including the Nor’Easter Mountain Coaster, original Alpine Slides, Waterslides, Mountain Biking, Climbing Wall, Eurobungy Trampoline, Scenic Chair Ride, and the new Airbag Jump and Slacklines. Bike rentals and Horseback Riding are not included in the general admission ticket.

Currently open weekends only, both Wildcat & Attitash Mountain will be open daily starting Saturday, June 15 through Labor Day, September 2. All rates and information for Wildcat Mountain can be found online at skiwildcat.com or by calling 1-888-SKI-WILD. All rates and information for Attitash Mountain Resort can be found online at attitash.com or call 1-800-223 SNOW.

Exploring How Food Grows at Moulton Farm Programs offered for Adults and Children

Moulton Farm is bringing back two popular programs enabling the public to explore the farm that has been producing food for more than 100 years.

“Last year we invited the public to get a ‘behind the scenes’ view of the farm through our ‘Walk and Talk’ series,” says John Moulton, owner of the Meredith farm. “It was very popular and gave a lot of people the opportunity to see how we grow food and some of the methods we use to preserve the soil for future generations. We’re happy we can do this again this year.” The sessions are free and will be held on the second Tuesday of the month from June through September.

The first ‘Walk and Talk’ session will be on Tuesday, June 11 at 6 pm. In addition to walks in the fields, some sessions will feature special activities. Sessions start at the farm stand and last approximately one hour. The events are rain or shine and sturdy footwear is strongly suggested. “Join us one time or for every session,” invites Moulton. “The farm is always changing and nature is always making life interesting in one way or another.”

The farm will also continue its popular ‘Little Sprouts’ program which introduces young children to how food grows. Children ages 5 through 9 can help plant, maintain, and harvest a vegetable garden. As part of the once a month Wednesday morning sessions children will learn about gardening methods, bugs, worms, watering, and sun. There is a small fee for the program and advanced sign up is strongly recommended. Children can attend one session or multiple sessions. The first session is on June 26th.

Monadnock Advisory Commission Meeting Announced

The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation announces that the Monadnock Advisory Commission will hold a meeting on Thursday, June 13, 2013 at 4:00 pm. The meeting will be held at the Jaffrey Civic Center, 40 Main Street, Jaffrey.

The Commission will receive reports from the NH Division of Parks and Recreation, the Park Manager, the Society for the Protection of NH Forests and an update on the MERE Project. The Monadnock Advisory Commission was established to recommend policies affecting the recreational use of Mount Monadnock and Gap Mountain, per RSA 227-D:4.
Monadnock State Park is managed by the Division of Parks and Recreation. The Division is comprised of the Parks Bureau, Bureau of Historic Sites, Bureau of Trails, and Cannon Mountain. The Division manages 92 properties, including state parks, beaches, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, waysides, and natural areas. The Division of Parks and Recreation is one of four divisions of the Department of Resources and Economic Development. To learn more, visit www.nhstateparks.org or call 603/271-3556.

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad to Operate Bike Week Shuttle Service Round trip shuttle service available from Meredith and Lakeport to Weirs Beach

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad will operate a shuttle service for those attending the 90th annual Laconia Motorcycle Week beginning Thursday, June 13th through Sunday, June 16th. The annual bike week shuttle service is a convenient way for those visiting the area to enjoy popular motorcycle week activities and events taking place at or near Weirs Beach without the concerns of traffic or parking. Trains will operate each day taking visitors from Meredith and Lakeport to Weirs Beach and back according to the following schedule:

THURSDAY – JUNE 13th
Trains depart Meredith hourly from 10:30am to 9:30pm to Weirs Beach.
Trains depart Weirs Beach hourly from 11:00am to 11:00pm to Meredith.
No Lakeport Trains on Thursday, June 13th

FRIDAY & SATURDAY – JUNE 14th & 15th
Trains depart Meredith hourly from 10:30am to 9:30pm to Weirs Beach.
Trains depart Weirs Beach hourly from 11:00am to 11:00pm to Meredith.
Trains depart Lakeport hourly from 11:00am to 9:00pm to Weirs Beach.
Trains depart Weirs Beach hourly from 11:30am to 11:30pm to Lakeport.

SUNDAY – JUNE 16th
Trains depart Meredith hourly from 10:30am to 2:30pm to Weirs Beach.
Trains depart Weirs Beach hourly from 11:00am to 4:00pm to Meredith.
No Lakeport Trains on Sunday, June 16th

Bike week shuttle service will originate from the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad station located at 154 Main Street in Meredith Thursday (6/13) through Sunday, (6/16) while shuttle service will also originate from Lakeport at the corner of Union Avenue and Elm Street on Friday (6/14) and Saturday (6/15). Free parking will be available at both locations. Advance reservations or credit cards are not accepted for the shuttle service. Round trip fare for adults will be $15.00, while a child’s round trip fare (3-11 years of age) will be $10.00.

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad station is located off Route 3 at 154 Main Street in Meredith, NH, and the Weirs Beach ticket booth is conveniently located on the Boardwalk on Lakeside Avenue across from the arcades, just off Route 3. For more information regarding schedules and special events for the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, visit www.HoboRR.com or call 603-745-2135.

Build a Boat This Summer with the New Hampshire Boat Museum

Have you ever dreamed of making your own small boat for summer use but didn’t know how? Then the New Hampshire Boat Museum’s popular Boat Building Program is perfect for you. This summer the Museum is offering two sessions of intensive boat building classes geared for novices who want to make either a canoe, kayak, Bevin’s Skiff, or Passagemaker. And this year we have offered a new option to the Adult class: the opportunity to build your own paddleboard.

Thanks to grants from a number of donors, scholarships are still available for students in the Youth Program and families with children who participate in the Adult/Family Program. The scholarships are for youth or families who might not otherwise be able to participate due to financial considerations. To learn more about the classes, costs, or the scholarships, visit the Museum’s website at http://www.nhbm.org. Or call the Museum at 569-4554.

The boats, which Museum volunteers start for the students over the winter, are from kits. You have their choice of building a:

• One-person canoe
• One-person kayak
• 12-foot Bevin’s Skiff
• 12’6″ paddleboard
• 12′ Passagemaker Skiff

Costs vary, depending on the boat you chose. Current Museum members get a discount. The Boat Building classes give you a great value because you create your own boat at a low coast and learn about boats and boat building from excellent teachers.

The two sessions available this summer are:

• Adult/Family Boat Building will be held from July 13 – 21. This session is open to adults or families with an adult and child team. Depending on the type of boat selected, you might finish your boat before the 21st. At the end of the session a special launching will be held on Lake Wentworth. The class runs daily from 8:30am-3:30pm.

• Youth Boat Building will be held from August 5-16. This session is open to girls and boys ages 12 and up. In this course, you can choose to build a canoe, kayak or Bevin’s Skiff. At the end of the session a special picnic and launching will be held on Lake Wentworth. The class runs from 9am-3pm Monday – Friday.

In each class you are taught the safe use of hand tools and small power tools by expert instructors, with plenty of individual assistance by volunteers. All materials and tools are supplied. You don’t have to be a “woodworker.” Through hard work and the help of our volunteers you will create your own beautiful finished boat you will be proud to take out on the lakes and rivers when you finish the class.

Thanks to generous donors, a large number of area youth have been able to take the course over the past eight years. The following donors have generously contributed to the Boat Building Scholarship Fund: the Captain Thombs Fund, the New England Lyman Group, the Wolfeboro Lions Club, the New England Chapter- Antique & Classic Boat Society, Jamestown Distributors, the Peter R. and Cynthia K. Kellogg Foundation, an anonymous foundation, Dr. and Mrs. Peter Rosanelli, Jr., Lois Warner, Mark and Janet Boyce, Charles and Patricia Clement, Pat and Dan Charlton, Charlie and Ilona Train and Jim and Nancy Shildneck.

If you have any questions or want to receive a sign-up form in the mail, please call the Museum at 569-4554. Applications are available online for downloading at www.nhbm.org.

New Hampshire Boat Museum’s Back Bay Skippers to Host Prestigious National Model Sail Boating Regatta

Top sailors from the United States and Canada will rendezvous in Wolfeboro June 22-23 when the New Hampshire Boat Museum’s Back Bay Skippers host this year’s AMYA One-Meter Soling National Championship Regatta. This prestigious national event will feature two days of radio-controlled sailing competition on Back Bay with contenders from as far away as Toronto, Michigan, California and Florida positioned along Bridge-Falls Path, transmitters in hand. No admission is charged for the public to watch the races, which run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Sunday, followed by awards to the top five finishers.

A nonprofit organization, the American Model Yachting Association (AMYA) promotes “the designing, building, racing and preservation of all model sailing yachts.” Not only does it prescribe rules for classification and competition, it also contributes to the advancement of local, national and international activities. Membership is open to anyone interested in these activities, and yacht classes range from one foot to eight feet in length and from high-tech developmental boats to affordable one-designs.

The One-Meter Solings to be sailed in this prestigious rivalry are miniature versions of an Olympic-class Norwegian sailboat. Sailors can move their rudder and sails by remote control, but it is the wind that actually propels the boat. Skill at catching and using that wind, as well as tactical ability, mean the difference between first and last place.

“Ling” at the end of its name indicates the original 27-foot Soling that was designed by the award-winning Jan Herman Linge of Oslo, Norway, who maintained a family association with boats. Jan’s father was a naval captain, and Jan himself served in the merchant navy for two years before his university apprenticeship at a shipyard. Naval architecture studies were interrupted by World War II, but in 1943 he put an early design to use when he built a boat for escape from Norway to Sweden. After membership in the Kompani Linge, a Norwegian resistance unit named after his father, he eventually completed his education, and in 1956 established his own firm. Although he has designed many sailing and power boats, he is known mainly for the Yngling and the Soling, as well as a motor-torpedo-boat once used by NATO countries for patrol. Selected for the 1968 Olympics, the Soling remained in the Olympic regatta until 1996.

Paul Fixx, former secretary for the AMYA’s Soling One-Meter Class, wrote in a 2007 Model Yachting article, “Aside from being easy to sail, I believe its most unique feature is the ability to sail well in almost any condition, from a light breeze to a near gale. There are other model yachts that sail better in any given condition, but none that can be tuned for as wide a range of conditions as the S1M. The S1M is also fun to build,” he continued. “While the S1M can now be purchased from the manufacturer fully assembled, most S1M skippers choose to build theirs from scratch.”

Locally, yacht-building workshops are held every winter at the NH Boat Museum’s barn to allow completion before the upcoming sailing season. Since its formation in 2008, the club has grown from a membership of one — Mark Whitehead of Ossipee, who serves as commodore — to more than sixty. Whitehead is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the NH Boat Museum.

Whitehead expressed appreciation for the spirit of volunteerism exhibited by his fellow skippers, who always step forward in so many ways — from lending their expertise in the yacht-building workshops to assisting with special events. He added that businesses as well have been generous in their support, providing services with enthusiasm.

Peter Colcord and his Downtown Grille Café will make sure the regatta participants are well fed upon arrival at the race site each day, as well as at Sunday’s lunch break. Saturday night he and his crew will host a four-course dinner with cash bar for racers and their guests. Saturday’s lunch will come from the ovens of Anthony’s Old-Style Pizzeria, thanks to Mark Anthony.

The designing skills of Jerome Holden at JC Signs were used to create trophies for the top five finishers. Souvenir hats for the competitors were embroidered by Scott Sislane and his staff at Calico Graphics, and floating key chains were provided by Edward Jones Investments and the office of Zach Tarter AAMS. Supplying racers with several of its current publications was Brad Lipe of Panoramic Publishing Group LLC.

Further information about the regatta and the Back Bay Skippers can be found at the NH Boat Museum’s website, http://www.nhbm.org or by calling the museum at 569-4554.

2013 Events Schedule at The NASWA Resort

Everyone’s favorite events during the 2013 summer season are happening at the coolest spot on Lake Winnipesaukee: The NASWA Resort! The NazBar will have live music on the beach every Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday! Many of NASWA’s favorite annual events are returning this year. There are also some new events planned that are sure to become Lakes Region favorites.

Here is The NASWA Resort’s full event schedule for the summer of 2013:
WHEN EVENT
May 24th – 27th Memorial Day Weekend
June 7th – 16th 90th Laconia Motorcycle Week
June 8th 7th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Ride
June 29th 4th Annual NASWA Day
July 4th July 4th Freedom Celebration with Sam Adams
July 11th – 14th NASCAR Weekend – NH 300
July 20th 13th Annual HK Powersports Land & Lake Poker Run
July 21st 10th Annual Reggae Day
July 27th & 28th 10th Annual Parrot Head Weekend
August 1st Tony Martelli Returns! Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the Blue Bistro
August 3rd & 4th 3rd Annual I Love the 80’s Weekend
August 10th & 11th 10th Annual NASWA Reggae Fest
August 24th & 25th 1st Annual Buccaneer Bash
August 31st – Sept 2nd 5th Annual Mardi Gras Labor Day Weekend
September 14th BFF Girlfriends Weekend Getaway
September 19th Fall NASCAR – Sylvania 300
October 11th Columbus Day Weekend

More information and detailed entertainment schedules can be found at naswa.com.

LOON MOUNTAIN RESORT UNLEASHES NEW OBSTACLES FOR JULY 13 MONSTER MUD RUN

When the 3rd Annual Monster Mud Run takes place at Loon Mountain Resort on July 13, racers will encounter a revamped course studded with challenging new obstacles.
Unlike other adventure races that stretch on for a dozen or more miles, the Monster Mud Run is a fast and filthy 5k course up hills, across ski trails, and over numerous manmade obstacles. This year’s course promises to have more amplitude and attitude than ever before, with more than 1,200 feet of climbing and descending during the race. Runners will also encounter many challenges, including:
Culvert Crawl – Runners will get on their hands and knees to crawl through this culvert near the beginning of the race. A big mud pit awaits the runners when they reach the light at the end of the tunnel.
Snowmaking Boot Camp – Snowmakers have the toughest job at Loon. Competitors will run a quarter-mile in their shoes by lugging heavy snowmaking hose up & down the mountain, crawling under barbed wire while being soaked by active snow guns.
Sadistic Slalom – If ascending rock ledges and clawing through bushes and brambles on the way up a steep lift line sounds pretty rugged, that’s because it is.
A total of 10 Monster Mud Run obstacles have been revealed so far, with another batch scheduled for release on June 13. To view the current obstacle list and sign to up for the race, visit www.loonmtn.com/monstermudrun or call 1-800-229-LOON.
Participants who register for the Monster Mud Run by May 27 will pay just $55 per person, $110 for a team of two, or $220 for a team of four. Registration fees increase May 28. Day of registration will run from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. in the Governor Adams Lodge. Race heats begin at 9:30 a.m. and continue until 11:00 a.m.
Each Monster Mud Run participant will receive a Monster Mud Run tech t-shirt and water bottle. While racers must be at least 14 years old on race day, there will be plenty of activities for the entire family, including a “Mini Monsters” race for kids under 14, and a Life is good® Village filled with music and games. A party with live music and awards will follow the race. For more information about the race and answers to Frequently Asked Questions, visit www.loonmtn.com/monstermudrun or call 1-800-229-LOON.

Dreamnight at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is participating in Dreamnight for the first time this June. Dreamnight is a global project for children with chronic illness and disabilities.

Dreamnight began in 1996 at the Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands as an annual evening at the zoo for children with cancer from a local children’s hospital. The event grew over ensuing years, with more children, in cooperation with more hospitals and institutions. Additional zoos joined in 2000 and Dreamnight has since grown to over 200 participating institutions in 35 countries around the world. The mission of Dreamnight is to hold an annual and cost-free evening out at the zoo, in early June, for chronically ill and disabled children and their family members. Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is the first institution in northern New England to participate in Dreamnight.

Dreamnight at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center will be an after-hours event featuring hands-on science stations, live music and puppets, face painting, crafts, live animal presentations, snacks, and goody bags. In addition, the live animal exhibit trail will be open for guests of Dreamnight to enjoy. Dreamnight is made possible with financial support from Lincoln Financial Foundation and Bank of New Hampshire. With additional in-kind support from A.M. Rand Hardware in Plymouth, Cabot Cheese, E.M. Heath Supermarket in Center Harbor, and Stonyfield Farm.

“Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is excited to be participating for the first time in this international event,” said Amy Yeakel, Education Program Director at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. “As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums we are able to learn about and participate in these sorts of initiatives. We hope to have many families enjoy this special evening.”

Participation in Dreamnight is by invitation only. Please contact Amy Yeakel for information by calling 603-968-7194

New Hampshire Boat Museum Opening Reception May 24 Opens to Public for 2013 Season May 25

The New Hampshire Boat Museum in Wolfeboro will open for the 2013 season over Memorial Day Weekend. To celebrate, the Board and staff invite the public to a special Opening Reception on Friday, May 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening will include food, a cash bar, entertainment and a preview of new exhibits. Tickets are $25 per person for not-yet-members and $22 for museum members. Tickets can be purchased on the Museum’s website, www.NHBM.org, via phone at 569-4554, or at the door.

The evening will include a light buffet dinner and ice cream sundaes. Entertainment will be provided by Ron Drolet who is a frequent performer at the Wolfeboro Inn. Attendees will get a chance to preview the new exhibit for 2013. This exhibit on the history of race boating on Lake Winnipesaukee features race boats of all kinds dating from the 1920s up to the 1960s. Among the race boats on display will be the famed Scotty. This 1929 28′ Gold Cup hydroplane was built by the famous naval architect John Hacker in Michigan for Sam Dunsford of Tuftonboro Neck. Scotty ran in several racing events on Lake Winnipesaukee. When Dunsford, a leading racer of the time, felt the boat’s performance was unsatisfactory he stored Scotty in his garage until his death in 1958. Now restored to its original configuration, Scotty has run in several vintage race boat regattas including Wolfeboro’s. The boat is on loan from Mark Howard.

Also on display will be Roman Candle, a 1961 hydroplane which is fully restored to its original condition. Roman Candle has an extensive racing history including the 2009 and 2011 Wolfeboro Vintage Race Boat Regatta. The boat is on loan from its owner, race boat driver Gerry Davidson. Roman Candle will be removed from display the week of the September Wolfeboro Regatta to run in that prestigious event.

The race boat exhibit also will feature posters, photos, videos, and objects that chronicle the history of race boating on Lake Winnipesaukee through the 20th century, including its resurgence here in Wolfeboro in 2000 with the Wolfeboro Vintage Race Boat Regatta.

Now in its 13th year, the Wolfeboro Vintage Race Boat Regatta, organized by the NH Boat Museum, will be held September 13-14.

“This season’s new exhibit on the history of race boating celebrates this important sport on Lake Winnipesaukee. The New Hampshire Boat Museum is pleased to be continuing that long tradition with September’s Regatta.” said Board Chair Rick Kourian.

In addition to the race boat exhibit, the Museum features an introductory video and displays on vintage canoes, steamboats, Goodhue & Hawkins Naval Yard, a vintage wooden boat repair shop, and boat models.

If you have young kids in your family, you should visit the Family Activity Center. There youngsters can keep busy with the “Build a Canoe” computer game, make their dream boats with Legos, color, or try their hand at a Scavenger Hunt. Throughout the Museum, hands-on interactive games also provide a fun way to learn about lake history, boating terms, and nautical issues.

The New Hampshire Boat Museum will be open to the public for the 2013 season on Saturday, May 25 and remain open through Monday, October 14, 10am-4pm Monday through Saturday, and Sundays 12noon-4pm. The Museum is a not-for-profit focusing on New Hampshire’s boating and fresh water heritage. It is located at 399 Center Street, Wolfeboro Falls, 2 miles from downtown Wolfeboro in the former Allen “A” Resort dance hall/theater building, For further information contact the Museum at 603-569-4554, museum@nhbm.org, or at www.nhbm.org.

THE HOBO & WINNIPESAUKEE SCENIC RAILROAD PREPARES TO OPEN FOR THE 2013 SEASON

As train operations resume, safety considerations are important to keep in mind.

Lincoln, NH – Officials at the Hobo and Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroads are advising the public that the rail line between Lincoln, NH and Tilton, NH is once again active for the season. Various train operations will continue through December, including excursion trains, special tourist trains and other equipment moves. The railroad is reminding the public that precaution should be exercised around moving trains and to always expect a train. Other safety considerations to keep in mind include grade crossing signals, which should always be obeyed. Drivers should stop when they hear whistle signals at grade crossings and never try to beat a train at a crossing.

In an effort to promote the message of railroad safety, the Hobo and Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroads have joined forces with Operation Lifesaver, a nationally recognized non-profit group that works to improve railroad safety through engineering, education and enforcement. “People need to be aware of the potential danger around moving rail equipment, even when rail cars and locomotives are moving at slow speeds.” said Benjamin Clark, Vice President of the Railroad. “Safety is our first priority.”

For the Hobo Railroad, scenic tourist excursion trains will depart from Hobo Junction in Lincoln, NH on weekends in May and operate daily during the summer and into the fall. The one hour and twenty minute round trip train excursion travels along the Pemigewasset River and crosses several roadways. The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad will also depart daily from Meredith and Weirs Beach, NH for a two hour excursion along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. The round trip excursion goes between Meredith, Weirs Beach and Lakeport. “People love to look at trains and we have a number of events scheduled where they can see and experience rail travel up close and personal in a safe manner,” concluded Clark.
Both locations offer a variety of special events and daily excursions for the general public, school groups and bus tours from May though late October along with Dinner Trains and Fall Foliage Trains which are available for all ages. In addition, the Hobo Railroad in Lincoln offers a full schedule of Santa Express Trains, as well as the Polar Express Trains in support of the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation from the Friday following Thanksgiving through the week prior to Christmas each year.

The Hobo Railroad is located in Lincoln, NH just off Exit 32 on I-93, left on Route 112, directly across from McDonalds. The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad station is located off Route 3 at 154 Main Street in Meredith, NH. The Weirs Beach ticket booth is located on the Boardwalk on Lakeside Avenue across from the arcades, just off Route 3. For more information regarding train schedules and special events, visit www.hoborr.com or call 603-745-2135.

New Hampshire Boat Museum Begins Kids’ First Programs June 1st

The New Hampshire Boat Museum is offering a series of programs for kids the first Saturday in June, July and August. Kids’ First Programs begin on Saturday June 1st with “Water Olympics” from 10 am-noon. The cost to participate is $3 for members’ children and grandchildren; $5 for non-members’ children and grandchildren. This hands-on program is for kids ages 5-12 (children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult). Class size is limited, so pre-reservation is required. Call the Museum at 569-4554 or sign up on-line at http://www.nhbm.org under Programs and Events.

This fun-filled morning will allow kids to play with staff and volunteers while learning about all things water-related. Among the projects for the morning will be making your own boat, learning what floats and what doesn’t, making fish prints, and more.
Museum Director, Lisa Simpson Lutts says, “We are thrilled to be offering these programs for children this summer thanks to the generosity of our members. The programs will be a great way to introduce your young child to all aspects of lake life.”

Looking ahead, the Museum will offer “Aquatic Critters”, Saturday, July 6th from 10 am-noon; “Let’s Go Fishing”, Friday August 2 from 5 pm-8 pm and Saturday August 3 from 8 am-4 pm; and Let’s Go Fishing for Young Ones, Saturday, August 3 from 10 am – Noon.

For further information call the New Hampshire Boat Museum at 569-4554. The New Hampshire Boat Museum will be open to the public for the 2013 season on Saturday, May 25 and remain open through Monday, October 14, 10am-4pm Monday through Saturday, and Sundays 12noon-4pm. The Museum is a not-for-profit focusing on New Hampshire’s boating and fresh water heritage. It is located at 399 Center Street, Wolfeboro Falls, 2 miles from downtown Wolfeboro in the former Allen “A” Resort dance hall/theater building, For further information contact the Museum at 603-569-4554, museum@nhbm.org, www.nhbm.org

Food and Flavor is Focus of Events at Moulton Farm

Food and flavor is the focus of much of what is happening at Moulton Farm this year. “Since we sell the majority of what we grow at the farm stand or one of our locations around the lakes region, we’re able to focus on varieties that provide great flavor instead of worrying about how it holds up to shipping,” explains John Moulton, owner of Moulton Farm in Meredith. “We’re also offering events and resources to help customers learn how to get the most from their food and really enjoy that great flavor.”

The first event will be on Saturday, May 25th with the farm’s first “Garden to Table” session of the season. The public is invited to drop by between noon and 2 pm to taste some of the items the farm’s chef, Jonathan Diola, cooks using what farm is currently harvesting. “It’s a great opportunity to taste food and talk with Jonathan and other members of our team about how we grow the food as well as get ideas about how to prepare it,” explains Moulton. These “Garden to Table” events are free and will occur several times during the summer.

“Fish School” is a new series at the farm this year with the aim of teaching people how to prepare seafood in different ways. The first session will be on Saturday, June 22, and is a collaboration between Diola and Sal Bramante of Sal’s Fresh Seafood. Bramante supplies the farm stand with fresh fish and is the fourth generation of his family to be in the seafood business. “Many people are unsure how to cook seafood or know only how to prepare one or two dishes,” says Bramante. “People are not hesitant about cooking chicken or beef, but seafood can intimidate them.” He hopes that the events will give people more confidence and encourage them to try cooking some new dishes. This event is free and people can drop in between noon and 2 pm to speak with Diola and Bramante.

In addition to events and workshops, the farm is has teamed up with Lisa Garcia, a registered dietitian who has a private practice in Laconia and Concord, to produce a series of tips on using produce sold at the farm. This information will be distributed at the farm stand and through the farm’s electronic newsletter.

Moulton Farm is located at 18 Quarry Road off Route 25 in Meredith. The farm practices sustainable agriculture and is dedicated to providing the highest quality fruits and vegetables while preserving its rich soil for future generations. In addition to growing its own produce, the farm sells prepared foods to go, baked goods, seafood, and a quality selection of cheeses, meats, and other items from local producers. More information is available at moultonfarm.com.

Another Wild Saturday Night at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center Annual event to be held July 20

If you’ve been wondering what the loonies from last year’s Science Center gala have been up to, you might just find out as Another Wild Saturday Night comes to the main stage at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness on July 20 beginning at 6:00 p.m.

All the components of last year’s wild success return bigger and better in 2013! More auction items, more food, and more high jinx from the staff and volunteers at the Science Center. The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. as you join your neighbors and friends for drinks and finger food from Common Man caterers. And there will be plenty of time to bid on the many fine items in the silent auction.

With over 30 items to bid on there is sure to be something to tempt everybody, from Red Sox and ski tickets to week-end getaways, and lovely items for the home (paintings and drawings, stained glass Osprey, planting packages from Moulton Farm, handwoven basket, tree care services, candlesticks from Winnipesaukee Forge). A complete list of items is available at Squam Lakes Science Center’s web site, www.nhnature.org.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and will this year include the big ticket auction to liven things up, with items like 2 nights at Church Landing Cottages, two 8-person dinner parties at a private Squam Lake home with celebrity chefs, a cocktail cruise, osprey tagging with Iain MacLeod, and a trip to Tuscany.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. The affordable admission to the Science Center property does not begin to meet the organization’s needs. Fundraising is a must; but no one has said fundraising has to be a drag, and at Another Wild Saturday Night the fun is being put back into fundraising. At $50 per person for a night of revelry and entertainment, this is a natural. Mark your calendars now for Another Wild Saturday night and get ready to party.

Ride the New Hampshire Boat Museum’s Millie B this Summer or Fall

The vintage Hacker Craft Millie B is beginning its third year of plying Lake Winnipesaukee under the ownership of the New Hampshire Boat Museum. The third season of narrated tours begins Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and continues through Columbus Day. On weekends during the shoulder seasons and every day in July and August, the Millie B and its dedicated and experienced crew of captains and dock attendants will offer 45-minute narrated tours along the eastern shore of the lake. No advance reservations are needed for day-time tours that start hourly.

This season, under the guidance of co-managers Dan Williams and Margaret Wood, the Millie B is offering a number of new features. The Museum has recently invested in a blue tooth headset speaker system to ensure everyone can clearly hear the Captain’s narration. Sunset Cruises will be added this year. These 90- minute cruises will offer a lovely, intimate, and entertaining opportunity for friends and family to gather together this summer to enjoy the lake, light hors d’oeuvres, and byob beverages. Although reservations are necessary for Sunset Cruises, you can make them up to noon of the day of the tour. A minimum of four people are required.

Taking a Millie B tour provides you with unforgettable memories of Wolfeboro. Not only will you see spectacular scenery, magnificent homes and boat houses, and loons, but you also will learn the history and geography that makes this lake so special.

The Millie B also offers private charters, which can provide unique memories to help you celebrate major events such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. Many brides choose to arrive in style at their lake wedding on the Millie B. And, of course the Millie B is also the perfect setting for unforgettable wedding shots.

Also new this season will be discount prices for riding the Millie B for seniors, teens, active military personnel, museum members, and families. To learn more about the Millie B, tour times, and ticket prices, visit our website at www.nhbm.org. Or to book a charter call Margaret Wood at 603-491-9950.

The New Hampshire Boat Museum will be open to the public for the 2013 season on Saturday, May 25 and remain open through Monday, October 14, 10am-4pm Monday through Saturday, and Sundays 12noon-4pm. The Museum is a not-for-profit focusing on New Hampshire’s boating and fresh water heritage. It is located at 399 Center Street, Wolfeboro Falls, 2 miles from downtown Wolfeboro in the former Allen “A” Resort dance hall/theater building,

LOON MOUNTAIN RESORT OPENS FOR SUMMER MAY 25 SCENIC GONDOLA RIDES, ZIPLINES, AERIAL FOREST ADVENTURE PARK & MORE

Spring has sprung in the mountains, and Loon Mountain Resort is already gearing up for an exciting summer. The resort will open for the summer season on Memorial Day Weekend (Saturday – Monday) and will be open on weekends through mid-June, with daily operations beginning June 22.
This summer, Loon is excited to offer a full range of activities for the entire family, including several fun new interactive features. For alpine adventure, visitors can ride New Hampshire’s longest scenic gondola skyride and enjoy spectacular vistas of the White Mountains from the observation tower, eat lunch at the Summit Café, or explore the summit glacial caves and self-guided nature walk.
For adrenaline junkies, the Loon Mountain Adventure Center offers rock wall climbing, bungee trampolines, a 700-foot zipline across the Pemigewasset River, and a new spider web climbing feature and slide for kids. Bike rentals and Segway® tours are also available.
For a truly unique challenge, visitors can test themselves in the Aerial Forest Adventure Park. Located high in the alpine forest, the park consists of five courses with varying levels of difficulty, perfect for families and kids ages seven and older. Participants are challenged to maneuver from platform to platform high up in the trees by crossing bridges, climbing ladders, zip lines and other obstacles. The park, a Swiss design built to the standards of the Association of Challenge Course Technology (ACCT), consists of platforms and elements that range from 9 to over 40 feet off the ground. This is a great confidence-building activity for individuals and team-building activity for families and groups.
New this year is Bunyan’s Backyard, a larger-than-life fun park featuring the Paul Bunyan-sized LogJam Maze, where kids and families find their way to various checkpoints while racing against the clock; an interactive Gyro Loop swing that would throw Babe the Blue Ox for a loop; and an assortment of games and amusements that are sure to entertain kids and adults alike.
The Adventure Pass and Super Adventure Pass are great ways for families to save on a whole day of fun this summer. At $41 for adults and $31 for juniors, the Adventure Pass allows for unlimited access to the gondola skyride, rock wall, and bungee trampoline, as well as a two-hour bike rental and round-trip zipline. The Super Adventure Pass – at $69 for adults and $59 for juniors – offers all those activities, plus a two-hour session in the Aerial Forest Adventure Park.
There are also plenty of events happening this summer, including the lung-busting Loon Mountain Race on July 7; the revamped Monster Mud Run on July 13; the New Hampshire Highland Games on September 20-22; and Oktoberfest on October 12-13. Be sure to check loonmtn.com for more event details.

2013 Events Schedule at The NASWA Resort

Everyone’s favorite events during the 2013 summer season are happening at the coolest spot on Lake Winnipesaukee: The NASWA Resort! The NazBar will have live music on the beach every Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday! Many of NASWA’s favorite annual events are returning this year. There are also some new events planned that are sure to become Lakes Region favorites.

Here is The NASWA Resort’s full event schedule for the summer of 2013:
WHEN EVENT
May 24th – 27th Memorial Day Weekend
June 7th – 16th 90th Laconia Motorcycle Week
June 8th 7th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Ride
June 29th 4th Annual NASWA Day
July 4th July 4th Freedom Celebration with Sam Adams
July 11th – 14th NASCAR Weekend – NH 300
July 20th 13th Annual HK Powersports Land & Lake Poker Run
July 21st 10th Annual Reggae Day
July 27th & 28th 10th Annual Parrot Head Weekend
August 1st Tony Martelli Returns! Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the Blue Bistro
August 3rd & 4th 3rd Annual I Love the 80’s Weekend
August 10th & 11th 10th Annual NASWA Reggae Fest
August 24th & 25th 1st Annual Buccaneer Bash
August 31st – Sept 2nd 5th Annual Mardi Gras Labor Day Weekend
September 14th BFF Girlfriends Weekend Getaway
September 19th Fall NASCAR – Sylvania 300
October 11th Columbus Day Weekend

More information and detailed entertainment schedules can be found at naswa.com.