Travel & Lifestyle

Vibe_Spring2025

By dan houde

Go to stand

Published: Sep 15, 2026
Pages: 84
Language: English

In this magazine

84 pages · tap a page to read its text

Premier EditionSpring 2025 | Volume 9: Issue 31 arts culture food health history libations music outdoors people shops
Page 2 2025 of Railroading over Crawford Notch! A CHOICE OF TRAIN RIDES!
Page 3IT’S WORTH THE TRIP! Over 20,000 square feet of home fashion to fit your family’s needs.
PUBLISHER/CREATIVE Dan Houde [email protected]MANAGING EDITOR Cam Mirisola-Bynum SALES MANAGER Chris Pacheco [email protected]
WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERSLily Hartman, Salem, NH Lily resides in Salem, NH and enjoys writing about health and outdoor recreation. She spends most weekends hiking the White Mountains and is passionate about educating others on all things wellness. She manages her own blog, Limitless With Lily, where she inspires indi viduals to overcome their limits by moving their body. Bernadette Donohue, Fryeburg, ME Known as the Dream Home Matchmaker, Bernie’s love of adventure, nature, and people started her real estate career 37 years ago. Bernie’s passion is also to facilitate caring connections and com munity. She is co-chair of local REALTORS® Community Service Committee, Creator of MWV Photo Contest, Calendars for Charities, and Hands of Hope cancer survivor banner.
SPRING 2025 • CONTENTS14 - MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO 38 - THE SEASON OF MUD
Page 7OOVERVER 20 locally20 locally owned andowned and operated restaurants,operated restaurants, who are commitedwho are commited to giving backto giving back ART ON THE COVERS
Page 8W h e r e t h e L o c a l s S h o p SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
SoyfireBath & Body North Conway, NH
Page 10C o m m u n i t y E v e n t WHITE MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER Whitaker Wander 5K
White Mountain Community Health Center photoLife Support to 5K Ann Norcross, a patient of the Health Center, met her goal of walking the Whitaker Wander 5k in 2024 after a difficult health year. Norcross was very active, regularly kayaking and hiking, until her COPD diagnosis, which sent her to life sup port with a collapsed lung on Christ mas of 2023. In an interview leading up to last year’s race, she said, “Most people think of a 5k as a run, but I’m going to walk it. You can do it, too! Nobody said you had to do the whole thing, nobody said you had to run, it’s what you can do. It doesn’t have to be a lot, it doesn’t have to be the same as someone else; you do what you can do to feel a bit better.” She further explained, “I have COPD [a lung disease that makes breathing difficult]. I was a very active person before. In December, my right lung collapsed and I was on life support for three days. When I came out of there, I just made a decision: This is not how it’s gonna go. It’s got to be better than this.” Norcross reflected, “I have a lot of support, between my previous co workers, my family, the medical staff. So many people have helped me out through my tough time, this is my way of giving back. I’m all about spreading love.” running a 5k for the first time are also recognized. Medical director and resident hula hooping expert, Josie Lamb, APRN, will teach hula hooping, and there will be a raffle, seed starting, and more. White Mountain Community Health Center is open to everyone in the commu nity and is accepting new patients. Most private insurance is accepted, in addition to Medicaid and Medicare. The sliding-fee scale can be combined with health insur ance to reduce out-of-pocket payments. People interested in learning more about the Health Center can visit the website at www.whitemountainhealth.org.
Page 12C o m m u n i t y E v e n t EIGHTH ANNUAL REDLINE TRAIL DAYS Redline Guiding
Edwin Giron DDS, DAAFECaitlin Behr RN, BSN LOOK YOUR BEST THIS SPRING!
Innovation and Discovery in the ValleyBy Emily Calderwood LOCAL STUDENTS SHINE AT THE MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO
2025 MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO WINNERSElementary School 1st place: Nelly Lamneck (4th grade, MIS), “Does a Broken Reed Change the Pitch?” 2nd place: Hazel Dufilho (5th grade, JGS), “Sourest Candy” 3rd place: Vivian Klein (5th grade, JGS), “Rise of the Cookies”
Page 16but with an environmental twist. We came up with a project that was different from last year, but was still important research to conduct. We decided to take samples of the water in our homes, schools, and communities to find out if our water quality was up to EPA standards. We sterilized seven mason jars using a pressure canner and distilled water. We took samples of our different water sources and tested them with 18-in-1 test strips. We hypothesized that because bottled water has to be approved by the FDA and the FFDCA, the drinking standards should be higher, and the water will be cleaner than the school and tap water. We found that the Jackson Grammar School water fountains were actually the cleanest, proving our hypothesis wrong. The contamination levels were relatively similar across all of our samples, they tested below EPA-recommended limits in all areas, except for nitrite, sulfate, and fluoride levels. We were pleased to have no real concerns in our water. KATIE LARACY “Clean Energy, How Easy can it be?” When coming up with my project for the 2025 Stem Expo, my mind went straight to fossil fuels, and why people will constantly choose them over clean energy for convenience. I thought about how kinetic energy can be found all over the earth, but my mind instantly went to the energy found in water. Approximately 71% of the earth is covered with moving water like oceans and rivers. Using the movement found in this water to create an electric current with a magnetic field would provide clean energy that does not strip away any of the Earth’s natural resources or pollute the atmosphere. For my project, I built multiple prototypes that use the process of electromagnetic induction to show energy being created using an an alog galvanometer. Sure enough, energy was created, which led me to think, ‘How can I make this process simpler?’With my prototype, using wire for energy transportation, my mind fell to making this process wireless. My next step in this experiment is to wirelessly transport the energy from my prototype. I am not yet sure how to execute this next step; it’s possible that a laser could be used to effortlessly transport the energy from point A to point B with no wires required. Science is complicated, but I want to make clean energy as simple as it can be. It was so cool to be able to see all the different projects at this year’s STEM Expo, and to be able to share my project with people in the community. I love how the Expo is able to bring so many people with a love for science together in one building, whether they are the students or the judges. It was very interesting hearing about other people’s projects, and what led them to come up with those topics. All in all, I think that the STEM Expo was a very fun day, and I can’t wait to be back next year!
Photos by DiVision MediaDISCOVER ADVENTURE
Page 18N o n p r o f i t S p o t l i g h t CONWAY AREA HUMANE SOCIETY & VALLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL Making a difference—one paw at a time
Meet in the mountainsMake us your place to get together pet care, and providing support during difficult end-of-life decisions. The Valley Animal Hospital offers flexible payment options, including credit plans and payment plans, for clients who are unable to pay for treatment upfront. In addition, the Veterinary Assistance Fund was established to provide finan cial assistance to clients facing significant financial hardship. This initiative aims to prevent animals from being surren dered simply because their owners cannot afford necessary medical care. CAHS is committed to supporting this initia tive by donating a portion of every animal adoption fee and hospital client visit to the Veterinary Assistance Fund. They also hope that individual donors and foundation grantors will contribute to this effort, helping to reduce the number of animals surrendered due to financial barriers. How You Can Help There are many ways to support the life-changing work of Conway Area Humane Society and Valley Animal Hospital. Whether through donations, volunteering, fostering, or simply spreading awareness, every effort contributes to their mission. • Adopt: Give a shelter pet a second chance at life. • Donate: Financial contributions help provide food, medical care, and shelter for animals in need. • Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to make a direct impact.
Page 20K 9 C o r n e r POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT DOG TRAINING
Page 21states, “Evidence supports the use of reward-based methods for all canine training. AVSAB promotes interactions with animals based on compassion, respect, and scientific evidence. Based on these factors, reward-based learning offers the most advantages and the least harm to the learner’s welfare.” A final significant benefit to positive training centers around the concept of “cause no harm.” In addition to all the benefits of positive training over aversive training, there is substantial evidence and support for the idea that aversive training is more likely than positive training to cause unwanted behaviors in dogs. A Closer Look at Aversive Training An article about the effects of aversive training in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior reports research results that reveal that punishment-based training methods are related to a more significant number of reported behavior problems compared to reward-based training. The study also reveals that owners with the highest obedience scores use reward-based training only, suggesting a correlation between positive rein forcement training and higher levels of obedience and fewer behavior problems. Research supports a widely accepted view that aversive dog training can cause the appropriate context. Treats used inappropriately could be regarded as bribes. If used appropriately, they are reinforcers. Like any piece of equipment or tool, people must learn how to use them properly. Sometimes, training results do take longer. However, as previously discussed, these quicker results may come at the cost of other undesired behaviors. While it may take time to achieve the desired goal, there is no concrete evidence showing that some dogs cannot learn using positive techniques. It is also quite true that success does depend on good timing and technique, which are learned skills. The same is true of aversive techniques. Tim ing and appropriate use of equipment is directly correlated with success. The difference is that poor timing in positive training may yield slower or no results, whereas poor timing in aversive training can increase the likelihood of poor or devastating results. Dog owners need to be aware of trainer differences and understand that classes or consultations may vary widely in techniques and philosophies. When trying to select a dog trainer who uses positive training techniques, things to avoid include the use of shock or prong collars, jerking or correcting when the dog does something wrong, minimal
Page 22R e a l E s t a t e C o r n e r NAVIGATING HOME CHOICES THROUGH THE DECADES
Page 23primary-bedroom suites. Many featured walkout lower levels that provide additional finished living space for recreation and guests. Demand grew for smart-home technology, stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, and granite countertops, with windows positioned for enhanced mountain views. Heated garages became an expectation, as did outdoor living spaces with elaborate patios and enlarged decks. Higher-end materials and custom craftsmanship highlight these well-designed newer homes. Golf courses, lakefront properties, and stunning moun tain views attracted wealthy buyers looking to age gracefully in our area. The post-pandemic era has further reshaped our housing market. With more people working and schooling from home, many sought out places they had previously vacationed, trans forming older homes into fabulous primary residences. This shift led to numerous improvement projects, making homes more functional for full-time living, with enhanced outdoor spaces, high-speed internet, and dedicated home offices. As buy ers began to expect smart-home features controlling lighting, security, temperature, and appliances, technology became a priority. High-speed internet is now a requirement for remote work, online learning, and modern entertainment needs. Sustainability has recently taken center stage. Energy efficiency moved from a perk to an expectation, with newer homes built with high-performance insulation, Energy Star appliances, and healthier indoor air systems. Solar panels, heat pumps, tankless water heaters, and whole-house generators have become increasingly common. Builders are incorporating sustainable materials and eco-friendly design choices that align with the region’s outdoor lifestyle. Improved building codes have produced better fire-resistant materials and more durable structural components. These modern quality-built or remodeled homes usually require less maintenance, thanks to longer-lasting materials and efficient systems. That said, no home is perfect! Some buyers feel newer homes lack charm, while others find new construction costs prohibitive. Location plays a role, as newer homes are less likely to be built in downtown areas or on larger parcels. Choosing between a newly built home or one needing updates becomes a personal decision based on budget, preferences, and dreams. Ultimately, finding the right home isn’t just about what you see on the market, but what you create once you have the keys. As you embark on your home-buying journey, surround yourself with trusted advisors who can illuminate your path. With the right insight and patience, you will soon be creating lasting memories and joy in your next home. Bernadette Donohue, REALTOR & Certified Residential Specialist, CRS. Serving the real estate needs of NH and ME since 1985. Contact Bernie at Badger Peabody & Smith Realty, [email protected], (603) 356-5757 x 700 or mobile (207) 542-9967
Page 24To reduce size, and promote socializing, there is no separate dining room in this home. The dining alcove is open to the kitchen and living areas. 24
MWV FINE HOMES: Green Design BasicsBy John Cole and Anthony Giovanni Photos by Ed Wonsek Artworks Green design is often a priority for those seeking to build new or renovate a home. But what does “green design” mean and what are the key elements to consider?
Page 26CONTINUOUS INSULATION OUTSIDE Continuous insulation may be added on outside or inside of the exterior walls. CONTINUOUS INSULATION INSIDE Adding continuous insulation on the inside of the exterior walls is simpler and less costly, though there is a slight decrease in continuity where vertical and horizontal studs cross.
DesignENERGY STANDARDS There are three widely recognized energy stan dards for home building: passive house, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and HERSÒ (Home Energy Rating System). Passive house, a system originating in Germany, has the most rigorous standards. Although the standards are open source, the “Certified Passive House” des ignation requires extensive documentation by an accredited passive house expert. The time and cost to achieve the certification are not worth it to most homeowners. LEED, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, is the most widely used energy rating system in the world. It is primarily used for large commercial, institutional, and multi-family residential buildings. The HERS Index is a nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance which has been adopted by the US Department of Energy. To qualify a certified HERS rater inspects the home (including a blower door test) and rates the house on a sliding scale which gives the homeowner an indication of how energy efficient their home is in comparison to other homes. A typical home built to 2006 energy efficiency standards scores 100 in the HERS Index. A home with a HERS Index score of 70 is 30% more energy efficient than a standard new home; a score of 130 is 30% less efficient than a standard new home. A HERS Index score can be used by homeowners to apply for state and federal tax credits, and they are also beginning to be used by real estate agents to compare properties. The cost of a certified HERS rating is reasonable, and it can provide tangible benefits.
Page 28LEFT: This is the interface between solar panels and the electrical box—where excess power is diverted to the utility grid for a credit to the homeowner. RIGHT: Ductwork for an HRV unit, which transfers heat between incoming and outgoing air, must be planned for from the start. This Greek Revival inspired farmstead was super insulated to achieve a HERS score of -30, which means it produces more energy than it consumes. The local utility company pays the owner for the excess electricity generated by the solar panels.
Page 29Homeowners can also opt for renewable energy sources to power the heat pump, such as solar panels, further minimizing environmental impact [see house photo on previous page ]. There are federal and state rebates and tax incentives for installing energy-efficient heat pumps. Energy-Efficient Ventilation
Page 30A R T I N T H E V A L L E Y THE ART OF KAREN EISENBERG By Karissa Masse WiseguyCreative.com photo
Gallery & Fine CraftsDDiissccoovveerr tthhee AArrttss WWoorrkkss bbyy 3355 aarrttiissttss ttoo ddeelliigghhtt tthhee eeyyee! GGaalllleerryy -- WWoorrkksshhooppss -- EEvveennttss
Nick Thompson photo“When you hold a mug made by hand, you’re connected to the person who made it. I like to think there is that sensibility in my jewelry. More and more I think about the arts being lost to computers and AI, with no hands involved. We’re losing touch with how things are made. But art is a piece of you that you’re sharing. It makes that human connection.” demonstration, tapping with a rawhide hammer and progressing through the process to describe her many hammers (chasing, riveting, planishing, raising), each designed to form metal in a different way. “You can Zen out doing this. I love to work with my hands and let my hands do the work more than relying on machines. There is something very empowering and satisfying about moving metal, something that you can’t just move with your fingers. To be able to bend it and transform it.” Karen Eisenberg’s jewelry is most recognizable for its surface patterns and textures. She uses a lot of silver clay, a material that is actually fine silver powder suspended in an organic clay matter. When fired in the kiln, the organic material burns away, leaving nothing behind but the pure silver. The resulting porous nature of this metal creates a wonderful bright white matte finish that beautifully lends itself to Karen’s textures and patterns. She sometimes enhances the contrast of these textures with an an cient Korean technique called Keum Boo, in which 24k gold foil is heat-bonded to the silver. Other times she uses a patina to blacken the silver, or simply burnishes the top surfaces to make them gleam. Many of her designs include circle themes that she calls “mandalas,” and ab stract leaf textures that have a somewhat tribal sensibility. Her work also has some Japanese influence, retaining an under stated delicacy even in its boldness, along with her decisions to leave some sponta neity—some evidence of a moment, just as her teacher had once encouraged. There are subtleties of Karen’s work that point directly back to her roots in ceramics. Just as a good piece of pottery has the right weight and feel in the hand, each element of her jewelry has similarly been thoughtfully considered. Often her finishing process takes longer than the actual building of a piece. To be worn on the body, it needs to be smooth, comfort able, durable, and fully functional. She is also very much interested in the philoso phy of hand-crafted work. Similarly, Karen enjoys making cus tom-jewelry pieces for people. She loves the community connection that draws people to find her and her work, and the personal connection that develops throughout the design process for a set of custom wedding bands, or a necklace commissioned to mark a special occasion. The jewelry becomes more meaningful because the connection is also shared with the maker. “Jewelry has to have a spark. I try to make it mine, not to imitate someone else’s. It’s difficult not to be influenced by your surroundings. Sometimes in the design process, I just let my hands do what they do. It is like your unique fingerprint. Everyone’s hands move in a different way.” We are all connected and touch each other in an infinite number of ways. Even if you haven’t met Karen Eisenberg in person, you’ve probably been in close proximity with her, or her beautiful jewel ry, here in our small town. And similarly, Karen’s contribution and influence as an art teacher has touched the lives of hun dreds of creative people in our community.
MT. WASHINGTON VALLEY ARTISTS & GALLERIESArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts 132 White Mountain Highway, Chocorua, NH • (603) 323-8041 www.chocoruaartworks.com Louise Perry of Vintage Frameworks 28 Norcross Circle, North Conway, NH (603) 356-7711 www.vintageframeworks.com
Page 34Left to right: Cheese Louise general manager, Jasmine Schmidt; Cheese Louise co-owner Bryce Harrison; Sap House Meadery owner and co-founder, Matt Trahan; Saco River Brewing owner, Mason Irish; Cheese Louise co-owner, James Gaudreault. NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
Page 35With North Conway being named (yet again!) the best ski town in North America by USA TODAY, it’s perhaps fitting that Sap House Meadery, Saco River Brewing Ta phaus, and Cheese Louise have settled into the former home of the legendary Carroll Reed Ski Shop. Much like members of a successful ski team, the three enterprises fully support each other—they even have a large, shared restroom facility inside the rear of the building—and recognize the truism that a rising tide floats all boats. Saco River Brewing Taphaus @sacoriverbrewing
Page 36adding, “Fryeburg has the best water in the state of Maine.” Patrons can enjoy beer selections at multi-level bars, accom panied with sandwiches, salads, and pizza. They can also pur chase four-packs of cans to carry out. (Tip: try the Hornet’s Nest Double IPA, but be warned that a pint brings a sting at 8% ABV!) Saco River Brewing Taphaus is following the lead of its parent enterprise by supporting local non-profits, such as land trusts, recreational outfits, and educational groups through ing honey with water. “I feel like I’ve spent my entire life educating people about meads,” jokes Matt Trahan, owner and co-founder of Sap House Meadery and North Conway resident. Meads are extremely adaptable and can be fused with a range of flavors, such as raspberry, blueberry, or maple, to create almost any style of alcoholic beverage. Trahan stresses that a common misconception about meads is that they are all Trahan believes that the location he shares with Saco River Brewing Taphaus and Cheese Louise will help “revamp North Conway Village into more of an experiential place and add a spark to the nightlife.”
Page 37THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL! AND THEN THERE’S BREETOS! Directly across from Norcross Circle is another newcomer to down town, Breetos. Owned and operated by Brein Matturro, Breetos offer fresh rolled “walking” burritos. Maximizing the small space, Breetos cooks everything in-house with the freshest ingredients and unique menu items. While serving a variety of pulled meats—spiced to your liking— they also cater to the vegan and gluten-free crowd. This sum mer, Breetos will have soft-serve ice cream, nachos, and pre-rolled burritos, for quick grab and go service. Stop by and try a burrito or check out the menu at www.breetos.com. Brein is pictured here with her husband, and former Ben & Gerry’s store owner, Vinnie Matturo.
The SeasonMud of By Dave Greenslit 38
Page 39“There is a reason, it’s called mud season, recently freezing, but now we’re stuck Ya know it’s better, in this spring weather to leave the minivan at home and take the pickup truck …” So goes the first verse of “Mud Season Blues,” an ode to the so-called fifth season, written by Russ Lanoie, who’s been getting down and dirty in Mt. Washington Valley mud for decades.
Russ Lanoie photoRuss Lanoie photo ABOVE LEFT: Class 6 Albert Road in Madison. ABOVE: Russ Lanoie is pictured with his trademarked FrontRunner attachment, which can be mounted in place of a plow and used for grading dirt and gravel roads and driveways. ABOVE RIGHT: Eroded soils and silt plumes from unstable sources, including surrounding roads and improperly managed construction sites, can easily be seen here entering Big Pea Porridge Pond. See www.peaporridgepond.org/watershed-management-plan for additional information and photos. RIGHT: Hiking trails without proper draining quickly become unpassable during mud season. SectionHiker.com photo.
Bob Christiansen photoPLEASE CHECK FOR OUR DAILY SPECIALS
Russ Lanoie photoFinn the mud-loving dog ABOVE LEFT: Appropriately named road near Squam Lake. ABOVE: Finn the dog, doesnt seem to mind the mud ... as long as it comes with a view. RIGHT: Various casualties of muddy situations around the Valley and national forest trials.
Courtesy photoU.S. Forest Service photo Russ Lanoie photo
SIGNS OF SPRINGTurtles, Frogs, Peepers, & other Various Valley Road-Crossers By Matt Maloney, Tin Mountain Conservation Center
Spring 2025As you can imagine, crossing a road is quite a precarious predicament for turtles, and other creatures. Unfortunately, they are unaware that roads have huge metal objects barreling down them night and day. Courtesy photo
Josh Megyesy and NH Fish and GameCourtesy photo Emily Smith-Mossman
Page 47“Big Nights”ahead for freshly active, slimy little critters on the move Add the spotted salamander to the list of road crossers in the Valley. Tin Mountain, and at times, New Hampshire Stake Parks, will hold a “Big Night(s)” event, typically in early April. Such events are characterized by hundreds of freshly active, slimy critters crawling their slow way towards vernal pools. Inactive all winter, their motivation, as soon as they wake up from this strange slumber, is to move to a vernal pool to find a mate.
BIRDING MWV By Mik OylerBirds to Watch in the Valley As a birder, the most common question these days is, sadly, “Where did all the birds in my yard and at my feeders go?” Answer: It’s depressing, but there’s hope.
Page 49Using the eBird “Explore” function, users can discover the best places for birding nearby, referred to as “Hotspots,” as well as reports, locations, and statistics of specific species in your area, like this map for Red-bellied Woodpecker. Advances in technology have significantly improved interest and access to com munity science projects. Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird website and app al lows volunteers worldwide to submit data about the birds they see at any time and in any location. Millions of observations are recorded monthly and entered into a central database that is used by scientists, land managers, and bird watchers alike.
Chalie Nims photoWhat can you do to help? Use native plants that provide seeds, fruits, and buds; support insects like caterpillars that birds eat; offer places for birds to build nests and find cover; and help maintain and recreate food webs and ecological systems that birds depend on. Chalie Nims photo
Spring 202551
WiseguyCreative.com photoRIDING THE WHITES A QUICK LOOK @ 2025
Page 53COÖS CYCLING CLUB All Hands On Deck With over 25 miles of singletrack and machine-built flow, the Coös Trails network is perhaps the best kept secret in White Mountains mountain biking—an outstanding mix of cross-country and gravi ty-fed riding overseen by a small group of members and volunteers dedicated to building new trail, maintaining existing terrain, and introducing new participants to the sport. Supporting the club’s fundraising efforts, the 3rd annual Frost Heave backcountry mountain bike race will be held on May 17th in Jericho Mountain State Park. This unique early-season event is held on a diverse network of trails, with participants experiencing challenging climbs, rugged descents, and excellent views. Short-course (13 miles) and long-course (27 miles) options are available. Register at www.bikereg. com/frostheave. Youth Shred Camp kicks off in June, offering a very affordable full week of mountain bike programming for local youth, ages 10-14, on the Coös Trails. Group Rides are held every Wednesday evening throughout the summer/fall, meeting at Moose Brook State Park in Gorham at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome. For adults new to the sport, check out Saturday morning Chill Rides, a no-pressure way to start your mountain biking journey. Join the email list at www.cooscyclingclub.org or follow on Instagram (@cooscyclingclub) to stay updated. www.cooscyclingclub.org www.facebook.com/coos-cycling-club www.instagram.com/cooscyclingclub
THE GEAR DOC of North ConwayGiving Outdoor Gear New Life By Lily Hartman
Page 55Page creates an inclusive environment with weekly events at the shop. Every Saturday, The Gear Doc hosts a gathering for anyone in the community who likes to climb, where Page does presentations about different trips to help climbers prepare, such as to Denali in Alaska, where he may talk about weather, and mountain medicine, and do a Q&A session. In addition, these gatherings allow climbers to share their ad ventures, what they’ve learned, and how others can prepare. “I enjoy sharing what I know, especially with this Alaska stuff,” says Page. He has become a mentor in the local climb ing community and cares about preparing climbers for their expeditions, no matter how big or small. Clarke says that the majority of things she knows about climbing are from shared knowledge in the community. She got into climbing in her teens, but had a difficult time finding a community of like-minded climbers in the area she grew up in, saying, “It just wasn’t like the community we have up here in Conway.” After starting her job at The Gear Doc and IME, Clarke has had an easier time meeting people with similar interests and getting outside for climbing adventures. Page never wanted to run a big company. Although the shop is small and often hard to spot, it has helped, encour aged, and educated avid climbers in the North Conway area and beyond. “He’s very humble about it, but he makes a huge impact,” says Clarke. Word has gotten out about there being a gear doctor in the area—he saves people money, helps them go on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and sometimes even hands them chili when they walk into the shop. The Gear Doc 25 Reporter Court, North Conway, NH (603) 662-4690
Shining a Modern Spotlight on a Storied TraditionThe Continuing Legacy of Peter Limmer & Sons Story and photography by Sam Norton
Spring 202557
Page 58storied reputation as a result of many years of dedicated craftsmanship. As the current steward of the company’s heritage, Adam expressed gratitude for those who taught him the skills of the trade (namely Peter Limmer). He also praised the skilled labor and dedication of his employees. Pres ently, the shop employs four full-time bootmakers (in ad dition to Adam), including Annie Dumais, Patrick Moody, and Ken Smith—they share in the tasks of building a boot to its completion. When speaking to both Adam and his co-workers, it was clear that they place great value on producing hiking boots that exude the quality and consistency, which has built their reputation. This mentality of dedication pertains beyond the boot, and includes the constellation of human connections which the Limmer community is known for. Although Adam could take the shop in various directions, the future he envisions for the company is largely informed by its past traditions. Nevertheless, since 2021, the Limmer crew has undertaken initiatives that they hope will bring new opportunities to their time-hon ored craft. The Philosophy of Meticulous Craftsmanship
Page 59N o rth C o n w a y , N H th e s o a k in g p o t.c o m New Owner, Same Philosophy
Page 60As Peter Limmer looks on, Adam Lane-Olsen measures New Hampshire Fish & Game Conservation Officer James Benvenuti’s foot to begin the process of creating a custom-made pair of boots. the company in the 1990s, having the Limmer name gave him no divine wisdom—he was simply a steward of the family business. Like Adam today, he faced challenging decisions about how to run the shop and maintain the company’s reputation. Peter also emphasized that close friendship can be nearly as valuable as family. Thinking back on his years working with Adam, he said, “I’ve always considered Adam and I to be twin brothers by different parents.” Since passing the reins, Peter has continued working for the shop part-time. His primary role is die-cutting the boots’ outer leather “uppers,” a particularly skilled part of the process.
Limmer Facts yearsAlongside Adam Lane-Olsen, Chris Sawyer owns Limmer Boots Inc, which makes authentic Limmer boots through a company in Germany. Peter Limmer & Sons, Inc. was established in 1919, and has been based in Intervale since 1950.
Page 62Presently, the shop employs four full-time bootmakers (in addition to Adam), including Ken Smith, Annie Dumais, and Patrick Moody—they share in the tasks of building a boot to its completion. Making Connections
FUEL YOUR ADVENTUREN O R T H C O N W A Y H O U S E O F
Page 64Team MWAC pauses for a photo in front of the Snow Rangers Quarters as they prepare for a busy day in Tuckerman Ravine. Back Row: Rhys Thomas, William Degrush, Josh McCabe, Jeff Fongemie, Marin MacDonald, Charlotte MacDonald, Grace Murdoch, Kaleb Guinn. Front Row: Patrick Scanlan, Monte the fluffy husky, Julia Bowman. 64
Spring 2025ASSESSING SPRING RISKS IN TUCKERMAN RAVINE With the Mount Washington Avalanche Center
Page 66ABOVE: On April 4, 1937, the first giant slolom race in the U.S., the Franklin Edson Memorial Race, was held. Intended to begin at the summit, the race began halfway up Right Gully as two recent surface avalanches hinted to potential trouble on the headwall. Photo by Harold Orne. RIGHT: The Avalanche Center crew pauses in front of the avalanche informational board. From L to R: Patrick Scanlan, Jeff Fongemie, Charlotte MacDonald, Kate Moynihan. HISTORY OF THE RAVINE Tuckerman Ravine is known as the birthplace of extreme skiing, according to Patrick Scanlan, an avalanche fore caster and snow ranger at the MWAC. In the 1930s, people were skiing in this backcountry area before anywhere else in the U.S. For this reason, the ravine has become a legendary location. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) noticed that bility, and just the historic spring atmo sphere at Tuckerman,” says Moynihan.
Spring 2025Furniture &Mattresses For Lake &Mountain Living 599 Tenney Mtn. Hwy Plymouth, NH 03264
Page 68winter intern for the Mount Washington Observatory (MWOBS) and MWAC. With a background in snow hydrology, Mac Donald’s goal is to look at snow from a safety standpoint and to determine how much water a storm is carrying, and what that means for the amount of snow that may fall in the days ahead. “Mount Washington has some really specific conditions that don’t fit into that framework all the time,” says MacDonald. “A lot of work is just trying to figure out if there is a better system for determining how much snow we have.” It may snow 10 inches in the bowl, but when the wind blows into the ravine, now there’s snow piling, creating a heavy layer Before attempting to ski down Tuckerman Ravine, Fongemie suggests starting small. Hike partway up a smaller slope with a safe runout and see how it feels. If it feels okay, go a little higher the next time. “People need to be quite solid skiers, and they also need to know their limitations,” he adds.
Spring 2025WILD & RESCUE MEDICINE From people who have done what they teach
Page 70Sometimes, falling pieces of rock and ice can be the size of a golf ball, but at other times, they can be the size of a car or truck, weighing many tons and reaching speeds of over 60 mph. Mount Washington Avalanche Center photo. SPRING MOUNTAIN HAZARDS
Page 71unstable. Usually, you can see or hear the running water, which are areas in which you should proceed with caution. 4. WET AVALANCHES When snow can no longer stick to the surface due to free water minimizing snow strength, a wet avalanche oc curs. Rain, warmer temperatures, and sunlight cause these. They move slowly but have a lot of power. Check the ava lanche forecast and be aware of melting snow to assess if a wet avalanche is likely to occur.
Page 72EDUCATIONAL FILM PROJECT FUNDRAISER The Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foun dation is raising money to create a film to raise awareness about the dangers of backcountry skiing on Mount Washington. By highlighting the real risks and emphasizing the importance of preparation and respect for the mountains, MWACF aims to equip skiers with the knowledge to make safer decisions in the backcountry. By supporting this project, contributors are not just helping to make this film a reality—they’re taking a stand for the safety and education of every skier who ventures into the backcountry. Let’s honor the lives affected by these tragedies by empowering others with the knowledge to avoid them. The MWACF’s goal is to raise $50,000.
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Digital Preservation of Our Past, Atop Mount WashingtonBy Peter Crane with Karen MacDonald The Mount Washington Observatory has the privilege of maintaining the Gladys Brooks Memorial Library, which includes books, archival material, and museum artifacts, with a principal subject focus of Mount Washington and the White Mountains. Presented here are a few of the images that have been digitized.
Page 75The Tip-Top House was a hotel built on the summit of Mount Washington in 1853, and remains today. It was well known enough back then to even inspire its own brand of coffee. 75
Page 76TMemorial Library, which includes books, archi he Mount Washington Observatory has the privilege of maintaining the Gladys Brooks val material, and museum artifacts, with a principal subject focus of Mount Washington and the White Mountains. The collection includes books, guide books, maps, engravings, stereoviews, postcards, photos, motion pictures, and many other materi als—some historical, some scientific. Included are the institutional archives of the Observatory, includ ing some materials dating to the Observatory’s 19th century forebears, the 1870-1871 Hitchcock-Hun tington Expedition and the soldier-observers of the U.S. Army Signal Service. The library is located at the Observatory’s Valley Office in North Conway village, and is accessible to the public. Looking for original Mount Washington weather records from the late 1800s? You’ll find some here, in the handwriting of early U.S. Army Signal Ser vice soldiers. The original logbook in which summit weather observer Salvatore Pagliuca recorded the fateful events of April 12, 1934, the day on which a world-record wind of 231 miles per hour blew over Mount Washington is here, too. Personal books and papers of Joe Dodge, who helped establish the Ob servatory in 1932, are also on the library’s shelves. A special feature of the collection comprises of pho tos, negatives, and other materials from renowned White Mountains photographer Guy Shorey, who flourished in the first half of the 20th century. The Observatory recently initiated a pilot digitiza tion project, funded, in part, through the generosity of the Henney Historical Fund. This project focuses on some of the most iconic items in the Observatory’s collection, with a goal to make many images available to the public via the internet. Providing such expand ed access will assist historical researchers and will accommodate those with an interest in the area for personal enrichment. Having the materials digitized will also spare the original, sometimes fragile, items from unnecessary wear and tear. Presented within are a few of the images that have been digitized. These images illustrate the long and colorful history of Mount Washington, and help chronicle the fascinating stories of human endeavor on the mountain, the loftiest peak in the Northeast ern United States. We consider not just the Obser vatory and its predecessors, but other activities that have a rich heritage on the mountain, such as the Mt. Washington Auto Road, The Mount Washing ton Cog Railway, and various summit buildings that have come and gone over the years. Many of the ear liest photographic images of the summit are from stereoviews, which were very popular in the last half of the 19th century. Placed in a simple viewer, the stereoviews allowed the two similar photos to be combined into a 3D image. 76
Page 77The simple wooden shack that housed soldiers of the U.S. Army Signal Station, 1874-1890. Discover the history and art of the Mt. Washington Valley and the White Mountains–the way that your great-grandparents would have seen them.
Page 78There was once a very different Observatory atop Mount Washington, a tower for surveying that stood from 1880 to 1902. The Mount Washington Summit Road Company generously allowed the Observatory to use the Summit Stage Office for its home from 1932 to 1937.
Page 79The first Summit House, 1852-1885. This simple hotel was the first building of substance on the summit. The second Summit House, a stately hotel, was opened in 1874 and burned in 1908.
Page 80This data sheet included the record-low temperature of -46.5 degrees F experi enced on Mount Washing ton on January 29, 1934. This Observatory logbook features Sal Pagliuca’s first-hand account of clocking the world-record wind on April 12, 1934.
Page 812025 Guy Shorey loaned a camera to 1932-1933 summit weather observer Bob Monahan, who took photos that would later be featured on postcards.
Page 82These images are just a tiny selection from the Observatory’s extensive library and archive. The Guy Shorey collection alone comprises more than 9,000 photos and negatives! The Observatory staff and volunteers will continue to preserve illustrative material and documents in a digital format, to make this import ant Mount Washington material more readily available to researchers and to the general public, and to help safeguard the sometimes century-old source material. Interested in learning more? Get in touch—a mountain of historical material awaits! Mount Washington Observatory is a nonprofit institution with a mission to advance understand ing of the natural systems that create Earth’s weather and climate. It serves this mission by maintaining a weather station on the summit of Mount Wash ington, performing weather and climate research, conducting innovative science education programs, and interpreting the heritage of the Mount Washington region. Get additional information at www.mountwashington.org. The number of overnight visitors to the Summit House required that the Cog Railway have a baggage car for the guests’ steamer trunks. Right: Brochures, tickets, and business cards of the Cog Railway are a small but significant part of the Observatory’s collections.
Page 83FREQUENT DEPARTURES DAILY, all year longFREQUENT DEPARTURES DAILY, all year longSpring 2025 83
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2025 of Railroading over Crawford Notch! A CHOICE OF TRAIN RIDES!

2025 of Railroading over Crawford Notch!

A CHOICE OF TRAIN RIDES!

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• More 1-hour classic Valley trains! • More dates and travel options for the scenic 4 hour Mountaineer

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Call or Book online - ConwayScenic.com •Th e Mountaineer offers a supremely scenic journey over Crawford Notch.603 356-5251 38 Norcross Circle | North Conway, NH

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IT’S WORTH THE TRIP! Over 20,000 square feet of home fashion to fit your family’s needs.

IT’S WORTH THE TRIP!

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Spring 2025

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PUBLISHER/CREATIVE Dan Houde [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Cam Mirisola-Bynum SALES MANAGER Chris Pacheco [email protected]

SALES MANAGER Chris Pacheco [email protected]THOUGHTS FROM THE PUBLISHER Spring 2021 | Volume 4: Issue 15

MANAGING EDITOR Cam Mirisola-Bynum

SALES MANAGER Chris Pacheco [email protected]

DISTRIBUTION / CIRCULATION Mt Washington Valley Vibe is published four times annually and is available for pick-up, free of charge, in over 300 locations throughout the White Mountain Region of New Hampshire and into the communities of Western Maine.

MWV Vibe is also available at many New Hampshire Welcome Centers throughout the state.

MWV Vibe can also be found in select retail shops, dining establishments, lodging properties, and grocery stores throughout the same area. If your business, or one you know, would like to make MWV Vibe avail able to its customers, please contact us.

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The village of North Conway has always had a special vibe. Unique, locally owned shops nestled between Schouler Park, Conway Scenic Railroad, and Cranmore Mountain, the village area has been an appealing draw for decades, whether you live here or are a visitor. Buzz ing with traffic and shoppers by day, once nighttime settles in, the village area typically quiets down, and storefront lights dimmed only to be visited by occasion al window shoppers strolling by. Recently, we returned home to the Valley from a multiday trip much later than we had hoped. It was a late midweek evening, and we assumed our dining options would be limited. But driving through the village, we were pleasantly surprised to see that Chefs Bistro, Horsefeathers, and newcomers to the Valley, Cheese Lousie and Saco River Brewing Taphaus, were not only open, but quite busy and still serving dinner. On another occasion this past winter, we left Cranmore early in hopes of tackling some chores before the end of the weekend. A quick stop at the newly

In the blink of an eye, the village area has grown to serve a more diverse, multi-generational crowd looking to whet their appetites and please their palates between shopping excursions and outdoor adventures.

opened Breetos, on the corner adjacent to Frontside Coffee Roasters, and minutes later, we were enjoying a couple of fresh, build-it-yourself burritos and on our way to our next stop for the day. And yet another time, now accompanied by friends in town for a visit, we found ourselves again in North Conway Village sampling barrel-aged meads in the tasting room at the new Sap House Meadery. In the blink of an eye, the village area has grown to serve a more diverse, multi-generational crowd looking to whet their appetites and please their palates between shopping excursions and outdoor adventures. Looking ahead to the summer season, these new eateries also boast outdoor village patios, rooftop decks overlooking Moat Mountain sunsets, and will feature live entertainment into the nights on a regular basis. Check out our article “New Kids on the Block” on page 34 to learn more about these exciting new eateries. I don’t know about you, but with Fourth of July celebrations just around the corner, I’m hoping to put my name in early for a rooftop seat to fireworks in Schouler Park.

Here’s to spring!

Dan Houde, [email protected]

Winter 2020/21 | Volume 4: Issue 14

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Spring 2021 | Volume 4: Issue 15

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WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lily Hartman, Salem, NH Lily resides in Salem, NH and enjoys writing about health and outdoor recreation. She spends most weekends hiking the White Mountains and is passionate about educating others on all things wellness. She manages her own blog, Limitless With Lily, where she inspires indi viduals to overcome their limits by moving their body. Bernadette Donohue, Fryeburg, ME Known as the Dream Home Matchmaker, Bernie’s love of adventure, nature, and people started her real estate career 37 years ago. Bernie’s passion is also to facilitate caring connections and com munity. She is co-chair of local REALTORS® Community Service Committee, Creator of MWV Photo Contest, Calendars for Charities, and Hands of Hope cancer survivor banner.

Bernadette Donohue, Fryeburg, ME Known as the Dream Home Matchmaker, Bernie’s love of adventure, nature, and people started her real estate career 37 years ago. Bernie’s passion is also to facilitate caring connections and com munity. She is co-chair of local REALTORS® Community Service Committee, Creator of MWV Photo Contest, Calendars for Charities, and Hands of Hope cancer survivor banner.

Dave Greenslit, Conway, NH Dave is a retired newspa per reporter and editor who moved to the Mt. Washington Valley to be close to the hiking, skiing, and mountain biking the area has to offer. He has section-hiked the Appalachian, Long, and Cohos trails and completed New Hampshire’s 4,000-footers.

Andrew Schuyler, Conway, NH Andrew serves on the boards of the White Mountains Interpretive Association and Massachu setts Conservation Voters and has a background in sustainability, journalism, and government affairs. He can be found hiking, skiing (some times together), or playing ultimate Frisbee, and has come to terms with losing regularly to his kids in backgammon and Quiddler.

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

Karissa Masse, Intervale, NH Karissa has made her living teaching art, making pottery, and managing galleries since she earned her BFA from RIT in 1999. She has been the owner and curator of the historical League of NH Craftsmen Gallery in North Conway since 2006. Karissa resides in Intervale, NH and enjoys a creative life enriched by the beauty of the White Mountains.

Mik Oyler, North Conway, NH Mik is co-CEO & founder of Aerie Healthcare, an innovative mental health day-treatment program for adolescents in Concord, NH. Mik and his family enjoy all forms of adventuring in the Whites, while Mik is an avid birder, a Mountain Birdwatch volunteer researcher, and an instructor at the Hog Island Audubon Teen Camp. Mik also serves on the Board of Directors of Mount Washington Valley Adaptive Sports.

Siena Kaplan-Thompson,Tamworth, NH Siena has been with White Mountain Community Health Center for over a decade and currently serves as its director of communi cations and development. When she isn’t at the health center, she can often be found playing the fiddle with the White Mountain Céilí Band, serving on the Tamworth School Board, or adventuring with her wife and their two children.

Robin Crocker, Center Conway, NH Robin devotes her life to dog training and splits her time between the operation of Telling Tails Training Center and non-profit work for Assistance Canine Training Services (ACTS). Her experience training service dogs and family dogs spans 30 years and includes instruction, consulta tions, competing in various dog sports, and extensive volunteer work. Robin recently retired the director of canine development position at ACTS and is currently serving as the board chair.

Sam Norton, Tamworth, NH Sam Norton is a trail builder and writer based in Tamworth. Originally from Massachusetts, Sam has lived north of the state for most of his adult life. When not working, he enjoys hiking, running, and reading. In 2021, Sam helped to found a cooperative trail crew that operates in the Northeast.

Peter Crane, Bartlett, NH Peter is the curator of the Mount Washington Obser vatory’s Gladys Brooks Me morial Library. He oversees the library’s collection of books, photos, maps, arti facts, and other materials. When not in the library, he can often be found on a mountain trail somewhere in the White Mountains, hiking, skiing, or doing trailwork.

John Cole, Fryeburg, ME John specializes in the design of vacation and retirement homes inspired by New England traditions of craft, thrift, and whimsy. He is a graduate of Yale University and holds a Master of Architecture degree from Washington University. He collaborates frequently with MWV Fine Homes on high performance, energy efficient homes, including the winner of New Hampshire Home Magazine’s Excellence in Green Design Award.

Anthony Giovanni, Intervale, NH Anthony is a custom home builder specializing in energy-efficient, high-end residences. Known for his tremendous passion and meticulous attention to detail, he takes pride in craftsmanship and creating exceptional homes. Growing up in the Mt. Washington Valley, he enjoys the outdoors, embracing nature through hiking, biking, and skiing.

Additional contributers Emily Caulderwell, writer Lindsay Yodice, writer

If you reside locally or have ties to the Mt. Washington Valley region and would like to offer your creative talents, please contact us at [email protected].

Spring 2025

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SPRING 2025 • CONTENTS

14 - MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO 38 - THE SEASON OF MUD

14 - MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO

38 - THE SEASON OF MUD

65 - SPRING RISKS IN THE RAVINE

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT White Mountain Independents

10 COMMUNITY EVENT WhitakerWander5K May17

12 COMMUNITY EVENT Redline Trail Days - May 31

14 INNOVATION IN THE VALLEY MWV Youth STEM Expo

18 NONPROFITSPOTLIGHT ConwayAreaHumaneSociety & Valley Animal Hospital

20 K9 CORNER Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

22 REAL ESTATE CORNER Navigating Home Choices Through the Decades

24 MWV FINE HOMES Green Design Basics

30 ART IN THE VALLEY The Art of Karen Eisenberg

34 NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK Next Generation Eateries Arrive in North Conway

38 THE SEASON OF MUD That Time of the Year Has Arrived in the Valley

44 SIGNS OF SPRING Turtles, Frogs, Peepers Come Alive in the Spring

48 BIRDING MWV Birds to Watch in the Valley in 2025

52 RIDING THE WHITES A Closer Look at Mountain Biking the Region in 2025

54 THE GEAR DOC Giving Outdoor Gear New Life

56 A STORIEDTRADITION The Continuing Legacy of Peter Limmer & Sons

65 SPRING RISKS IN TUCKERMAN RAVINE With the Mount Washington Avalanche Center

74 PHOTO ESSAY ATOP MOUNTWASHINGTON Digital Archives from the Gladys Brooks Memorial Library

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OOVERVER 20 locally20 locally owned andowned and operated restaurants,operated restaurants, who are commitedwho are commited to giving backto giving back ART ON THE COVERS

ART ON THE COVERS Spring 2025

OOVERVER 20 locally20 locally owned andowned and operated restaurants,operated restaurants, who are commitedwho are commited to giving backto giving back

ART ON THE COVERS

“Coloring the Hours” is a large (48” x 48”) acrylic painting recent ly completed and shown at the “Love Letters to Mt. Washington Valley” show this past February at Jackson Art Studio & Gallery. It is available for purchase.

to the Valley.to the Valley.

Margaret Dries is a longtime Mt. Washington Valley resident, painter, graphic designer, and art director. Margaret’s work is immediately recognizable for the bold

Feel Good AboutFeel Good About East Coast. She likes to keep paintings loose and abstract (or colors and loose brushstrokes used to capture the colors and shapes of nature in a simplified form. Inspiration comes from our local mountains, sunsets, skies, and the shorelines of the Dining Out!Dining Out!

somewhat abstracted) to offer the viewer space to fill in their own story about the art.“I love to hear what people think about more abstracted pieces and how they interpret them … what they see can be very different from what I, or other people, see.”

We WORK pro-actively with local businesses and organizations to help keep our community wonderful place to live, work, and play.

In 2024 we have donated over $353,500$353,500 to local programs and non-profits, all thanks to the patronage of our guests, like you!

In addition, the VO also donates over $13K in member gift certificates to over 180 Organizations/Charities in the MWV area, each year!

Spring 2025

Contemporary art is an excellent addition to your home. Margaret’s work can be seen at Jackson Art Studio & Gallery in Jackson, NH, and The Three Sisters Gallery in Gorham, NH. Her work is included in group collections at The Snowvillage Inn, Cheese Louise, The Wentworth Hotel, Adventure Suites, Sap House Meadery, and The Stonehurst. Studio visits are available, as well as a concierge service to your home with a selection of pieces to view in your spaces. Follow Margaret on Instagram @SunsetHillStudio or reach out to her at [email protected]. You can find her work online at: margo1951.wixsite.com/mysite-1.

ON THE BACK COVER Sarah Eastman This back cover art placed in the top three of the 2024 Valley Originals “Essence of the Valley” art competition. Look for the next Call-For-Art competition this May!

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W h e r e t h e L o c a l s S h o p SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

IT’S MY GIRLFRIEND’S BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT MYSTIC SUGAR BAKERY

W h e r e t h e L o c a l s S h o p

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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

IT’S MY GIRLFRIEND’S BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT

You’ll find this boutique next to the train station at 28 Norcross Circle in North Conway Village. Originally opened in 2007, Lisa Spadaccini became the owner in February 2019. Open all year, My Girlfriend’s Boutique features contem porary gently worn women’s clothing and accessories. Shop consign ment and save money on brand names such as Dooney & Bourke, Brigh ton, Eileen Fisher, Patagonia, Frye, and Ugg. Merchandise changes daily, so visit often because you never know what you might find. Though the boutique is predominantly consignment, the own er does buy new products to enhance the shopping experience, such as scarves, gloves, hats, jewelry, handbags, greeting cards, and stickers. You’ll find jewelry lines, mostly made in New England, in cluding Simple Designs, LivRose, Studio G. Available exclusively at the boutique, Inis from Ireland is a refreshing, unisex scent available in hand/ body lotion, cologne, and a home/linen spray. Myra bags are made from recycled army canvas and cowhide available in many patterns and colors. Jen & Co. bags feature vegan leather in fun colors and styles. Blu Bags are the perfect reusable shopping bag that fits in your pocket or purse and can hold up to 50 pounds. Think recycle, repurpose and reuse, and then visit It’s My Girlfriend’s Boutique Consignment!

ItsMyGirlfriends

Open year round (closed Mondays) Women’s consignment clothing/accessories Consign by the season and by appointment only Locally owned and operated

For more information, call (603) 733-5144 or visit www.itsmygirlfriendsnh.com

MYSTIC SUGAR BAKERY

From their humble beginnings in 2020 with Mystic Sugar’s Traveling Bakery Boutique food truck, owners Christy and Jason Skinner have moved up twice to brick and mortar storefronts in North Conway Village, most re cently in 2023 to Norcross Circle, next to the train station. Today they continue to specialize in hand-crafted treats made from high-quality, fresh, seasonal products. Best known for their signature “Monster Cookies” and fairy-tale-themed “Enchanted Cup cakes,” the bakery has expanded its offerings to include custom cakes, macarons, as well as breakfast and lunch items. The Skinners are pleased to be New Hampshire Magazine’s 2024 “Best of NH” Reader’s Poll winner in both the “Best Bakery” and “Best Breakfast Place”, in the White Mountains Region. Last year, they added Sunday High Teas to their event calendar, along with seasonal themed tea parties, such as April’s Mad Hatter Tea: Guests are invited to the bakery for a positively mad afternoon of tea and treats. With its whimsical décor and colorful displays of pastries, Mystic Sugar Bakery offers a magical visual experience and a feast for the senses that will keep you going back for more.

mysticsugarbakery.nh

Open year round Signature cupcakes and cookies Gluten-free options Google Custom orders welcome

For more information, call (603) 730-5026 or visit www.mysticsugarbakery.com.

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SHOP THE BLUE FLAGS in support of our small, locally-owned retailers!

Located Next to the Train StationLocated Next to the Train Station North Conway Village (603) 733-5144 • ItsMyGirlfriendsNH.com

WHITE MOUNTAIN INDEPENDENTS

WhiteMountainIndependents.com

POOLS, SPAS, SAUNAS & MORE! Rt. 16, N. Conway • (603) 356-0039 www.atlanticpoolandspa.com

Spring 2025

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C o m m u n i t y E v e n t WHITE MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER Whitaker Wander 5K

C o m m u n i t y E v e n t

WHITE MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER Whitaker Wander 5K

White Mountain Community Health Center photo

Join White Mountain Community Health Center for their 4th annual Whitaker Wander 5k on Saturday, May 17 at 9 a.m.

Othrough the beautiful trails of n May 17, 2025, runners and walkers will wind their way

North Conway’s Whitaker Woods, accompanied by a kids’ Fun Run, hula hooping, live broadcasting, and more. Board president and race director Caitlin Behr, RN, says, “This 5k run and walk is a fun, friendly, and encourag ing event that celebrates health and wellness in our community. We are so happy to see this event growing year after year. I look forward to seeing familiar and new participants in May!” The Whitaker Wander 5k was first held in 2019 to support the Health Center’s programs and bring awareness to all of the services the organization offers the community. The Health Center fosters community-wide health through quality and compassionate services. These include primary care, dental much the Health Center has meant to them over the years, and what a difference they see these programs making in the community. School nurses who know they can send students’ families to us when their child is sick and they don’t have a PCP; people who started seeing us when they were in a health crisis and are now thriving; small businesses that can’t afford to offer health insurance but are thankful they can send their employees to us for healthcare and help enrolling in affordable coverage; board members who love the care they’ve gotten here as patients for decades and want to make sure we’re still here for everyone in the years to come. This is a chance for everyone to come together, celebrate those successes, and highlight the importance of having a community where everyone can get the care they need to be healthy.” She added, “If you don’t know much about us, it’s also a great chance to find out what we’re about and support health and wellbeing for everyone in our community.” Community health workers will be at the race to share information and The Whitaker Wander 5k was first held in 2019 to support the Health Center’s programs and bring awareness to all of the services the organization offers the community. The Health Center fosters community-wide health through quality and compassionate services.

care, substance use disorder treatment, dietician services, sexual and reproductive health service, a teen walk-in clinic, behavioral health care, and care coordination. The organization makes sure that everyone in Mt. Washington Valley can access these services through a generous sliding-fee scale and other programs that remove barriers to care. Siena Kaplan-Thompson, director of communications and development, explained, “We hear from so many people how answer questions about the Health Center’s programs. The event was on hold through the pandemic, and staff and board members were excited to bring it back in 2023 to great success. Last year’s event was even bigger, with almost 100 participants, including almost 20 kids under age 10, running the non-competitive 1-mile Fun Run. Awards are given for best three times for walking and running for women, men, and non-binary participants under 55 and 55+. People walking or

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White Mountain Community Health Center photo

Life Support to 5K Ann Norcross, a patient of the Health Center, met her goal of walking the Whitaker Wander 5k in 2024 after a difficult health year. Norcross was very active, regularly kayaking and hiking, until her COPD diagnosis, which sent her to life sup port with a collapsed lung on Christ mas of 2023. In an interview leading up to last year’s race, she said, “Most people think of a 5k as a run, but I’m going to walk it. You can do it, too! Nobody said you had to do the whole thing, nobody said you had to run, it’s what you can do. It doesn’t have to be a lot, it doesn’t have to be the same as someone else; you do what you can do to feel a bit better.” She further explained, “I have COPD [a lung disease that makes breathing difficult]. I was a very active person before. In December, my right lung collapsed and I was on life support for three days. When I came out of there, I just made a decision: This is not how it’s gonna go. It’s got to be better than this.” Norcross reflected, “I have a lot of support, between my previous co workers, my family, the medical staff. So many people have helped me out through my tough time, this is my way of giving back. I’m all about spreading love.” running a 5k for the first time are also recognized. Medical director and resident hula hooping expert, Josie Lamb, APRN, will teach hula hooping, and there will be a raffle, seed starting, and more. White Mountain Community Health Center is open to everyone in the commu nity and is accepting new patients. Most private insurance is accepted, in addition to Medicaid and Medicare. The sliding-fee scale can be combined with health insur ance to reduce out-of-pocket payments. People interested in learning more about the Health Center can visit the website at www.whitemountainhealth.org.

running a 5k for the first time are also recognized. Medical director and resident hula hooping expert, Josie Lamb, APRN, will teach hula hooping, and there will be a raffle, seed starting, and more. White Mountain Community Health Center is open to everyone in the commu nity and is accepting new patients. Most private insurance is accepted, in addition to Medicaid and Medicare. The sliding-fee scale can be combined with health insur ance to reduce out-of-pocket payments. People interested in learning more about the Health Center can visit the website at www.whitemountainhealth.org.

Registration is $15 per 5k walker or run ner and $5 for the kids’ Fun Run. Partic ipants can register ahead of time online at www.runreg.com/wander2025, or at the race from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Patients of the Health Center can get a coupon for free or discounted registration, if the cost is a difficulty, by calling the front desk at (603) 447-8900.

Spring 2025

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C o m m u n i t y E v e n t EIGHTH ANNUAL REDLINE TRAIL DAYS Redline Guiding

C o m m u n i t y E v e n t

EIGHTH ANNUAL REDLINE TRAIL DAYS Redline Guiding

Redline Guiding photos

Ftain National Forest (WMNF), you or anyone who’s had the privilege of bushwhacking in the White Moun know just how instrumental the trails re ally are. If you think our trails are rugged, try pushing your way to the top of one of our 4,000-footers off-trail, amid the “pen cil woods”—conifers so dense you can’t even turn around to quit … so you stand there, angry, frustrated, almost sobbing.

“We feel the absolute best way to give back is to make a sweat-equity investment.” Said owner Mike Cherim. “It’s meaningful, and fun!”

Wishing desperately at that point that you had a trail to walk on. Yeah, the trails mean that much. That also means you’re volunteering to help the trails. Redline Guiding opened its doors in October of 2016. Beginning in 2017, Redline decided to host the event in order to give back. Granted, there are many trail-maintenance organizations and there are many ways for people to give back— ranging from adopting a trail of their own to making a donation. “We feel the absolute best way to give back is to make a sweat-equity investment.” Said owner Mike Cherim. “It’s meaningful, and fun!” Redline does this with the coop eration of the U.S. Forest Service (and others), and they always find something

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW What: Perform trail work using the latest and greatest best practices on a local trail (to be determined). When: Saturday, May 31, 2025; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (approximately). Where: Meeting at the USFS Saco Ranger Station (33 Kancamagus Highway, Conway, NH). Who: This event is the collaborative works of these co-sponsors: NH Trailworkers’ Group, White Mountain Endurance Coaching, Tuckerman Brewing Company, U.S. Forest Service, and Redline Guiding LLC. Why: Because you use these trails, you love these trails, and because you care. Bring: Please show up prepared and with the following: • A pack large enough for all layers. • Be prepared for inclement weather. Please wear long pants. • Bring lunch/snacks for the day including at least two liters of drinking water. • Please wear real boots.

Redline will supply a limited number of work gloves, safety glasses, hard hats, work tools, and basic instruction as needed.

Please note that this is strictly a work day, there will be no special training element. Participation will count toward trail work requirements like that of the AMC’s Four Season list. Participation will also benefit the forest and those who use it.

Meet at Tuckerman Brewing after to enjoy a free beverage (up to 20 ounces, and soft drinks are also available).

interesting for us to do. In the past, we have made progress on treadway and corridor management, hauled and debarked logs, dismantled a bridge, relocat ed over 100 trees in an effort to reclaim severely impacted areas, and more. This is all important stuff, and without our help, these tasks might be sidelined for weeks, months, or even years.

Please sign up by emailing [email protected], or visit www.redlineguiding.com.

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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Edwin Giron DDS, DAAFE

Caitlin Behr RN, BSN LOOK YOUR BEST THIS SPRING!

Caitlin Behr RN, BSN

LOOK YOUR BEST THIS SPRING!

Catch up with injectable treatments before summer catches up with you! Fresh Face Studio offers a curated collection of wrinkle relaxers, dermal fillers, biostimulators, and skin rejuvenation treatments. Not sure where to start? Schedule a consultation to learn more about our comprehensive offerings. Fresh Face Studio is a comprehensive Medical Spa with two locations; North Conway & Gorham, NH. Dr. Edwin Giron and Caitlin Behr, RN offer state-of-the-art therapeutic and esthetic treatments using a broad range of products, procedures, and technologies including injectables, energy based cleansing and resurfacing treatments, and medical-grade skin care products. Our relationships with our clients begin with a comprehensive evaluation where we listen to your concerns and then work with you to achieve an authentic, fresh, and rejuvenated look. Visit our website, or call to schedule a consultation; you’ll see why so many people have chosen to work with us for their skin care needs!

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Spring 2025

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Innovation and Discovery in the Valley

By Emily Calderwood LOCAL STUDENTS SHINE AT THE MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO

By Emily Calderwood

LOCAL STUDENTS SHINE AT THE MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO

Tboards, models, and carefully prepared demonstrations for he Grand Summit Hotel at Attitash was buzzing with activity on March 19, 2025, as local students arrived carrying poster the third annual MWV Youth STEM Expo. This year, nearly 200 students participated in the event, representing schools across Conway, Bartlett, and Jackson, along with students from Frye burg, Maine. Over the past several months, these students dedi psychology, plant science, and sports science. Students were competing for one of three cash awards in their age category in the amounts of $300 for first place, $200 for second place, and $100 for third place; along with one of two Emerging Scientist Awards sponsored by the Mount Washington Observatory. New this year was a special Climate Exploration Award sponsored by the White Mountains Connected Learning Ecosys

The MWV Youth STEM Expo, which began in 2023, has grown rapidly each year. What started as a small gathering of 22 students has now become a highly anticipated event that encourages hands-on learning and fosters a love of science, technology, engineering, and math.

cated their time to developing research projects and engineering designs, eager to present their findings to a panel of judges and share their discoveries with the community. The MWV Youth STEM Expo, which began in 2023, has grown rapidly each year. What started as a small gathering of 22 stu dents has now become a highly anticipated event that encour ages hands-on learning and fosters a love of science, technology, engineering, and math. Organizers were thrilled to see this year’s strong participation, reinforcing the importance of STEM educa tion in the Mt. Washington Valley. The event recruited nearly 70 volunteer judges, including local scientists, engineers, and educators, who spread throughout the venue to hear from the student presenters. This year’s projects covered a wide range of topics, including environmental science, tem (WMCLE). The WMCLE builds connections and resources for formal and informal educators teaching climate and data literacy in our region as a part of the NASA-funded Learning Ecosystems Northeast network. The group includes the Mount Washington Observatory, Tin Mountain Conservation, and White Mountain Science, Inc. (WMSI) who teamed up with the MWV Youth STEM Expo to encourage and support students exploring climate and data-related projects. As judges wrapped up their rounds and went to deliberate, families, and 3rd-grade students from area elementary schools arrived to explore the Expo. They engaged with the presenters, asked questions, and even got hands-on with STEM activities provided by WMSI, 4-H, the Kennett High School Robotics Team, and the Kennett High School Aviation Program.

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2025 MWV YOUTH STEM EXPO WINNERS

Elementary School 1st place: Nelly Lamneck (4th grade, MIS), “Does a Broken Reed Change the Pitch?” 2nd place: Hazel Dufilho (5th grade, JGS), “Sourest Candy” 3rd place: Vivian Klein (5th grade, JGS), “Rise of the Cookies”

Elementary School Middle School High School Mount Washington Observatory Emerging Scientist Awards STUDENT PROJECTS

Elementary School

1st place: Nelly Lamneck (4th grade, MIS), “Does a Broken Reed Change the Pitch?” 2nd place: Hazel Dufilho (5th grade, JGS), “Sourest Candy” 3rd place: Vivian Klein (5th grade, JGS), “Rise of the Cookies”

Middle School

1st place: Addy Jaus (7th grade, JBES), “Trashing Soil Pollution” 2nd place: Skyler Boris and Emmett O’Brian (7th grade, JBES), “Comparing Different Bounce Heights on Different Surfaces” 3rd place: Levi Roberts and Brighton Oliver (6th grade, JBES), “Powerful Paper”

High School

1st place: Ayten Soylemez (11th grade, Fryeburg Academy), “Language of Movement” 2nd place: Tomona Arai (10th grade, Fryeburg Academy), “Effect of Transporter Mutation and Potassium on Radiocesium Distribution in Arabidopsis Thaliana from the Fukushima Nuclear Explosion Accident” 3rd place: Nia Lajoie (10th grade, KHS), “The Effects of Nicotine Products on the Gut Microbiome”

Mount Washington Observatory Emerging Scientist Awards

Max Morrow (6th grade, JGS), “Bolts and Wire” Emily Fields (9th-grade, KHS), “Hot Topic: The Greenhouse Effect”

White Mountains Connected Learning Ecosystem Climate Exploration Award:

Nora Williams (6th grade, KMS), “How Does Climate Change Affect Seashells?”

STUDENT PROJECTS

The local environment was on many students’ minds, and two groups took a deeper dive into environmental issues. Ninth-grader Katie Laracy, from Fryeburg Acade my, asked the question, “Clean Energy, How Easy Can It Be?” and Josiah Bartlett Elementary School 8th-graders, Alda Dufilho and Helen Glazer, studied the quality of local drinking water with their project, “Drink Up: Assessing our Daily Drinking Water Sources.”

ALDA DUFILHO AND HELEN GLAZER “Drink Up: Assessing our Daily Drinking Water Sources”

Water is important be cause it brings nutrients to our cells, protects joints and organs, and helps maintain good body temperature. Water keeps us happy, healthy, and hydrated. But what if the water we’re drinking isn’t good for us? We decid ed to find out. Last year we did a Photos by DiVision Media project on screen time in kids versus adults, which is something that impacted our middle school community. This year we also wanted to do a project that would have an influence on our local community, Spring 2025

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but with an environmental twist. We came up with a project that was different from last year, but was still important research to conduct. We decided to take samples of the water in our homes, schools, and communities to find out if our water quality was up to EPA standards. We sterilized seven mason jars using a pressure canner and distilled water. We took samples of our different water sources and tested them with 18-in-1 test strips. We hypothesized that because bottled water has to be approved by the FDA and the FFDCA, the drinking standards should be higher, and the water will be cleaner than the school and tap water. We found that the Jackson Grammar School water fountains were actually the cleanest, proving our hypothesis wrong. The contamination levels were relatively similar across all of our samples, they tested below EPA-recommended limits in all areas, except for nitrite, sulfate, and fluoride levels. We were pleased to have no real concerns in our water. KATIE LARACY “Clean Energy, How Easy can it be?” When coming up with my project for the 2025 Stem Expo, my mind went straight to fossil fuels, and why people will constantly choose them over clean energy for convenience. I thought about how kinetic energy can be found all over the earth, but my mind instantly went to the energy found in water. Approximately 71% of the earth is covered with moving water like oceans and rivers. Using the movement found in this water to create an electric current with a magnetic field would provide clean energy that does not strip away any of the Earth’s natural resources or pollute the atmosphere. For my project, I built multiple prototypes that use the process of electromagnetic induction to show energy being created using an an alog galvanometer. Sure enough, energy was created, which led me to think, ‘How can I make this process simpler?’With my prototype, using wire for energy transportation, my mind fell to making this process wireless. My next step in this experiment is to wirelessly transport the energy from my prototype. I am not yet sure how to execute this next step; it’s possible that a laser could be used to effortlessly transport the energy from point A to point B with no wires required. Science is complicated, but I want to make clean energy as simple as it can be. It was so cool to be able to see all the different projects at this year’s STEM Expo, and to be able to share my project with people in the community. I love how the Expo is able to bring so many people with a love for science together in one building, whether they are the students or the judges. It was very interesting hearing about other people’s projects, and what led them to come up with those topics. All in all, I think that the STEM Expo was a very fun day, and I can’t wait to be back next year!

KATIE LARACY “Clean Energy, How Easy can it be?” When coming up with my project for the 2025 Stem Expo, my mind went straight to fossil fuels, and why people will constantly choose them over clean energy for convenience. I thought about how kinetic energy can be found all over the earth, but my mind instantly went to the energy found in water. Approximately 71% of the earth is covered with moving water like oceans and rivers. Using the movement found in this water to create an electric current with a magnetic field would provide clean energy that does not strip away any of the Earth’s natural resources or pollute the atmosphere. For my project, I built multiple prototypes that use the process of electromagnetic induction to show energy being created using an an alog galvanometer. Sure enough, energy was created, which led me to think, ‘How can I make this process simpler?’With my prototype, using wire for energy transportation, my mind fell to making this process wireless. My next step in this experiment is to wirelessly transport the energy from my prototype. I am not yet sure how to execute this next step; it’s possible that a laser could be used to effortlessly transport the energy from point A to point B with no wires required. Science is complicated, but I want to make clean energy as simple as it can be. It was so cool to be able to see all the different projects at this year’s STEM Expo, and to be able to share my project with people in the community. I love how the Expo is able to bring so many people with a love for science together in one building, whether they are the students or the judges. It was very interesting hearing about other people’s projects, and what led them to come up with those topics. All in all, I think that the STEM Expo was a very fun day, and I can’t wait to be back next year!

Ray Gilmore: 7th grade, JBES

Students and families then gathered to hear from the STEM Expo’s keynote speaker, Kennett High School alum Colin Foord, who is the co-founder of the marine biolog ical art duo Coral Morphologic, located in Miami, Florida. Students heard about Colin’s work in developing the world’s first multimedia coral aquaculture studio and were treated to a look at his live-streaming Coral City Camera.

The awards ceremony was the highlight of the day, honoring the following winners: In the Elementary School category, first place went to Nelly Lamneck, 4th grade at Mountainside Intermediate School for her project, “Does a Broken Reed Change the Pitch?” Second place was awarded to Hazel Dufilho, 5th grade at Jackson Grammar School for her project, “Sourest Candy,” and Vivian Klein, 5th grade at Jackson Grammar School earned third place with her project, “Rise of the Cookies.”

In the Middle School category, Addy Jaus, 7th grade at Josiah Bartlett Elementary School, took the top prize for her project, “Trashing Soil Pollution.” In second place were Skyler Boris and Emmett O’Brian, 7th graders at Josiah Bartlett Elementary School, with their project, “Comparing Different Bounce Heights on Different Surfaces,” while Levi Roberts and Brighton Oliver, 6th graders at Josiah Bartlett Elementary School, secured third place with their project, “Powerful Paper.”

In the High School category, Ayten Soylemez, 11th grade at Fryeburg Academy, won first place for her project, “Language of Movement.” Second place was claimed by Tomona Arai, 10th grade at Fryeburg Academy, with her project, “Effect of Transporter Mutation and Potassium on Radiocesium Distribution in Arabidopsis Thaliana from the Fukushima Nuclear Explosion Accident,” and third place went to Nia Lajoie, 10th grade at Kennett High School, for her project, “The Effects of Nicotine Products on the Gut Microbiome.”

Mount Washington Observatory Emerging Scientist awards went to Max Morrow, 6th grade at Jackson Gram mar School, for his project, “Bolts and Wire,” and to Emily Fields, 9th-grade at Kennett High School, for her project, “Hot Topic: The Greenhouse Effect.”

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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Photos by DiVision Media

DISCOVER ADVENTURE

DISCOVER
ADVENTURE
Keegan Preece: 5th grade, MIS

Open May - October. 1712 Lost River Road, North Woodstock, NH 03262

The Climate Exploration Award went to Nora Williams, 6th grade at Kennett Middle School, for her project, “How Does Climate Change Affect Seashells?”

Winners went home with a backpack from the Mount Washington Observatory, which was crammed with Obser vatory gifts, and generous donations from local companies. In reflecting on the day’s events, Christa Biche, SAU#9 director of curriculum and instruction said, “Every student I spoke with felt an overwhelming sense of pride, and felt valued by their community. They saw, firsthand, how their community showed up to support them—the incredible venue, T-shirts, lunch, prizes, amazing judges, volunteers, and the presence of so many community members and organizations—all reinforcing that their ideas, potential, and learning matter.” The MWV Youth STEM Expo is grateful to generous sponsors who made the event possible: Foxfire Property Management of Concord, NH; the Kiwanis Club of the Mt. Washington Valley, and the White Mountains Community College. Other major sponsors are Ambix Manufacturing, Northeast Delta Dental, Horizons Engineering, The Dear born Foundation, and the Rotary Club of North Conway. As the event wrapped up and students carried their projects home, excitement for next year was already in the air. The MWV Youth STEM Expo continues to grow, sparking curiosity and motivating future scientists, engineers, and innovators in the Mt. Washington Valley.

Visit www.MWVSTEMExpo.com for more details.
Spring 2025
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Make a life-changing difference for a child.

A child’s road to safety and stability starts with you. Join an info session to learn more. Visit casanh.org

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N o n p r o f i t S p o t l i g h t CONWAY AREA HUMANE SOCIETY & VALLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL Making a difference—one paw at a time

N o n p r o f i t S p o t l i g h t

CONWAY AREA HUMANE SOCIETY & VALLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL Making a difference—one paw at a time

Conway Area Humane Society photos

Tcommunity, and caring for animals in need. Together, they he Conway Area Humane Society (CAHS) and Valley Animal Hospital share a mission rooted in compassion, improve the lives of animals and the people who love them, ensuring that every pet receives the medical attention, shelter, and love it deserves. The Conway Area Humane Society (CAHS) is a community of volunteers, staff, and supporters dedicated to promoting animal welfare. Thanks to the tireless work of supportive community members, CAHS opened its doors in June 2003. Founded on the belief that every animal deserves a second chance, CAHS has been a pillar of the Carroll County community for over 20 years. The organization provides shelter, medical care, and adoption

Since opening, CAHS has placed over ten thousand animals. They could not have accomplished this without community support. They rely on donations to care for all animals, maintain facilities, and much more. The Conway Area Humane Society hosts three major annual fundraising events: Be a Humane Hero Dinner & Auction, Bark in the Park, and Putt for Pets. With out these events, their sponsors, and their supporters, CAHS couldn’t continue their mission. CAHS aims to be a pivotal part of the community. The addi tion of the Valley Animal Hospital (VAH) in 2024 demonstrates this. The mission of the Valley Animal Hospital is to make medical care for beloved pets more accessible to all pet owners. Their skilled team includes a veterinarian, Dr. Leo, and techni

The Conway Area Humane Society hosts three major annual fundraising events: Be a Humane Hero Dinner & Auction, Bark in the Park, and Putt for Pets. Without these events, their sponsors, and their supporters, CAHS couldn’t continue their mission.

services for hundreds of animals annually, offering them a hav en until they find their forever homes. Beyond adoptions, CAHS engages in community outreach, educational programs, and advocacy for animal welfare. Their work includes rescuing animals from neglect, providing emer gency medical services, and working with local law enforcement to ensure that animals in distress are given a new lease on life. CAHS also offers unique programs that benefit both animals and the people who care for them. These programs include their pet food pantry, temporary boarding for families in crisis (safe haven program), lifelong friends program connecting seniors with senior pets, and partnerships with local schools to help create a more compassionate and informed community.

cians who are committed to keeping pets healthy and happy. Dr. Leo is a Kennett High School Graduate and a Conway native who received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. She com pleted her clinical year at Virginia-Maryland College of Veteri nary Medicine at Virginia Tech. In collaboration with CAHS, VAH provides critical veterinary care to rescued animals at the shelter, ensuring they receive nec essary vaccinations, spay/neuter services, and medical treatment for injuries or illnesses. VAH is essential in preparing animals for adoption and giving them the best possible chance at a new life. VAH is deeply involved in the community, offering afford able veterinary services, educating pet owners on responsible

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Meet in the mountains

Make us your place to get together pet care, and providing support during difficult end-of-life decisions. The Valley Animal Hospital offers flexible payment options, including credit plans and payment plans, for clients who are unable to pay for treatment upfront. In addition, the Veterinary Assistance Fund was established to provide finan cial assistance to clients facing significant financial hardship. This initiative aims to prevent animals from being surren dered simply because their owners cannot afford necessary medical care. CAHS is committed to supporting this initia tive by donating a portion of every animal adoption fee and hospital client visit to the Veterinary Assistance Fund. They also hope that individual donors and foundation grantors will contribute to this effort, helping to reduce the number of animals surrendered due to financial barriers. How You Can Help There are many ways to support the life-changing work of Conway Area Humane Society and Valley Animal Hospital. Whether through donations, volunteering, fostering, or simply spreading awareness, every effort contributes to their mission. • Adopt: Give a shelter pet a second chance at life. • Donate: Financial contributions help provide food, medical care, and shelter for animals in need. • Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to make a direct impact.

How You Can Help There are many ways to support the life-changing work of Conway Area Humane Society and Valley Animal Hospital. Whether through donations, volunteering, fostering, or simply spreading awareness, every effort contributes to their mission. • Adopt: Give a shelter pet a second chance at life. • Donate: Financial contributions help provide food, medical care, and shelter for animals in need. • Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to make a direct impact.

The Conway Area Humane Society and Valley Animal Hospital are shining examples of compassion in action. Through their dedication, they continue to create a better world for animals and the people who love them. To learn more or to get involved, visit www.conwayhumane.org or call (603) 447-5955.

Spring 2025

Meet in the mountains — Settlers Green has brands families love, local restaurants with great patios, and a public art walk. Discover tax-free shopping deals while enjoying stunning views and endless activities in North Conway.

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K 9 C o r n e r POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT DOG TRAINING

By Robin Crocker, Assistance Canine Training Services WiseguyCreative.com photo

K 9 C o r n e r

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT DOG TRAINING

By Robin Crocker, Assistance Canine Training Services

How positive training methods foster a stronger bond and build trust between the dog and owner.

Idog training. Positive reinforcement n the 1980s, we saw the beginning of a major shift in the basic principles of techniques began to gain widespread popularity. These methodologies utilize science-based learning theory centered on reward-based reinforcers. Positive dog training was propelled forward by histor ically significant trainers and behavior ists such as Karen Pryor, who popularized clicker training, and Ian Dunbar, who further connected the study of animal behavior and science with practical dog training. The revolutionary trend toward positive training includes clicker training, food-based rewards, and a concentration on reward-based learning versus punish ment, or aversive-based learning. From the 1980s forward, positive reinforce ment dog training has been gaining popu larity among trainers and dog owners. Today, you can still find dog trainers who work outside of the principles of positive reinforcement training. However, with the large amount of research now available, the number of trainers who utilize positive training overwhelmingly outnumber those who do not.

Providing a More Positive Training Option Dog owners have likely embraced posi tive training over the previously popular aversive techniques because it provides an experience that overwhelmingly feels more comfortable. However, the reasons for the growth and popularity of this style of dog training go far beyond the effects on humans. Extensive research supports the success and benefits of this type of training. Studies show that positive training creates a low-stress learning environ ment for the dog and builds a better bond between the dog and owner. It also supports quality training results and stronger long-term learning. Finally, dogs trained using positive training versus aversive techniques are less likely to develop unwanted behaviors.

Creating a Strong Bond A strong bond that gives the dog a feeling of trust and safety is important for a pro ductive, low-stress training environment. A study done by Stephanie Deldolle and Florence Gaunet at the University of Paris Nord shows that dogs taught using positive reinforcement show increased attentive ness toward their owners. An increased connection between dogs and handlers is an indicator of a stronger bond. The study also concludes that training with negative reinforcement has a negative effect on the relationship between humans and dogs.

WiseguyCreative.com photo

Comparing Techniques It seems a reasonable conclusion that a less stressful learning environment will make the training experience more positive and therefore more productive. A more recent study from the University of Porto looks at a large group of compan ion dogs. There were dogs trained with positive training and dogs trained using aversive techniques. Findings indicate that dogs trained with aversive methods show more stress. In contrast, the dogs in the positive group are more relaxed and excited during training sessions. The study concludes that dogs trained with reward methods have more secure attachments to their owners. Today, positive reinforcement training is recognized as a highly effective training method. While aversive techniques can also be effective, positive training shows at least equal, and often better results, with less stress and potential harm to the dog. In addition, these methods have strong long-term results. The American Veteri nary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) published a position statement on dog training in 2021, citing that studies indicate reward-based training is highly effective, and there are some studies that show it to be more effective than aversion methods. This position statement further

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states, “Evidence supports the use of reward-based methods for all canine training. AVSAB promotes interactions with animals based on compassion, respect, and scientific evidence. Based on these factors, reward-based learning offers the most advantages and the least harm to the learner’s welfare.” A final significant benefit to positive training centers around the concept of “cause no harm.” In addition to all the benefits of positive training over aversive training, there is substantial evidence and support for the idea that aversive training is more likely than positive training to cause unwanted behaviors in dogs. A Closer Look at Aversive Training An article about the effects of aversive training in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior reports research results that reveal that punishment-based training methods are related to a more significant number of reported behavior problems compared to reward-based training. The study also reveals that owners with the highest obedience scores use reward-based training only, suggesting a correlation between positive rein forcement training and higher levels of obedience and fewer behavior problems. Research supports a widely accepted view that aversive dog training can cause the appropriate context. Treats used inappropriately could be regarded as bribes. If used appropriately, they are reinforcers. Like any piece of equipment or tool, people must learn how to use them properly. Sometimes, training results do take longer. However, as previously discussed, these quicker results may come at the cost of other undesired behaviors. While it may take time to achieve the desired goal, there is no concrete evidence showing that some dogs cannot learn using positive techniques. It is also quite true that success does depend on good timing and technique, which are learned skills. The same is true of aversive techniques. Tim ing and appropriate use of equipment is directly correlated with success. The difference is that poor timing in positive training may yield slower or no results, whereas poor timing in aversive training can increase the likelihood of poor or devastating results. Dog owners need to be aware of trainer differences and understand that classes or consultations may vary widely in techniques and philosophies. When trying to select a dog trainer who uses positive training techniques, things to avoid include the use of shock or prong collars, jerking or correcting when the dog does something wrong, minimal

A Closer Look at Aversive Training An article about the effects of aversive training in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior reports research results that reveal that punishment-based training methods are related to a more significant number of reported behavior problems compared to reward-based training. The study also reveals that owners with the highest obedience scores use reward-based training only, suggesting a correlation between positive rein forcement training and higher levels of obedience and fewer behavior problems. Research supports a widely accepted view that aversive dog training can cause the appropriate context. Treats used inappropriately could be regarded as bribes. If used appropriately, they are reinforcers. Like any piece of equipment or tool, people must learn how to use them properly. Sometimes, training results do take longer. However, as previously discussed, these quicker results may come at the cost of other undesired behaviors. While it may take time to achieve the desired goal, there is no concrete evidence showing that some dogs cannot learn using positive techniques. It is also quite true that success does depend on good timing and technique, which are learned skills. The same is true of aversive techniques. Tim ing and appropriate use of equipment is directly correlated with success. The difference is that poor timing in positive training may yield slower or no results, whereas poor timing in aversive training can increase the likelihood of poor or devastating results. Dog owners need to be aware of trainer differences and understand that classes or consultations may vary widely in techniques and philosophies. When trying to select a dog trainer who uses positive training techniques, things to avoid include the use of shock or prong collars, jerking or correcting when the dog does something wrong, minimal

Despite the overwhelming evidence supporting positive reinforcement dog training, there are trainers that continue to utilize aversive training or a combination of positive and aversive training.

and exasperate behavior issues in dogs, including fearfulness, avoidance, anxiety, and even aggression. Positive reinforce ment training is equally effective and causes no harm to the dog. Many aversive trainers have evolved to the use of a combination of methods. They will argue that all positive training does not work on all dogs, results take longer, treats become bribes, and suc cess depends on good timing. The term “balanced” is often used to describe their techniques.

Understanding the Proper Use of Techniques While some of these arguments have validity, they must be considered in or no use of treats, offers of guaranteed and quick success, no certification, and no recent continued education. Positive trainers will promote the use of positive rewards such as treats and toys and will have a clear understanding of how dogs learn and of learning theory. They are always willing to talk about their methods and why they use them. Positive trainers often hold certifications, belong to professional organizations, and participate in continuing education.

Assistance Canine Training Services 2928 East Conway Road, Center Conway, NH www.assistancecanine.org (603) 383-2073

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R e a l E s t a t e C o r n e r NAVIGATING HOME CHOICES THROUGH THE DECADES

R e a l E s t a t e C o r n e r

NAVIGATING HOME CHOICES THROUGH THE DECADES

By Bernadette Donohue

Spring is a time of rebirth, a gentle reminder that no matter how long and harsh a winter has been, the earth reawakens to begin anew. Just as the melting snow gives way to green leaves and vibrant flowers, a colorful array of homes for sale also begins to pop up. If spring has you yearning for a housing transition, you’re in luck, because 2025 predictions indicate an increase in available homes in many price categories. A house is much more than a roof over your head; it represents stability, belonging, personality, pride, and happiness. Personal preferences and affordability will naturally guide your choices, but understanding the market and construction details can provide valuable perspective as you navigate your search. This article explores typical pros and cons of homes from different eras, focusing on mid- and late-20th-century homes versus newer homes built after 2000.

Hreflects not just a year-round population but vacation ere in the beautiful lakes and mountains of New Hamp shire and Maine, we have an eclectic mix of homes that appeal as well. Ski chalets, lakeside camps, log homes, post & beams, traditional, contemporary, and even some stone- and earth-berm homes are scattered throughout the region. Unlike suburban areas where houses tend to look alike, the White Mountain and lake regions offer many one-of-a-kind properties. With four decades of real estate experience, I believe I have seen and shown it all. Construction techniques and materials varied widely over the decades, from budget-friendly to highend luxury, so making broad generalizations is challenging. However, let’s examine some common trends that may guide your journey home. Post-war homes built in the 1940s through the 1970s were more compact with practical designs to meet housing demands. Symmetrical capes, Colonials, splits, and ranches were common, with earlier buildings featuring solid wood cabinets and doors, and hardwood or pine floors. Interiors were often partitioned into smaller rooms with lower ceilings for better heat retention. Brick fireplaces with mantels were popular, and exteriors were clapboard or wood shingles. Kitchens and bathrooms reflected Art Deco influences with pastel colors and floral patterns. As baby boomers fueled another housing surge in later decades, engineered and cost-effective composite materials became more widely available. Home designs shifted toward larger, more open floor plans with high ceilings. Earthy tones— harvest gold and avocado green—dominated, before giving way to bolder choices such as orange countertops and shag carpet ing, followed by mauve and teals. Mirrored doors and brass fixtures highlighted new features; we saw sunken living rooms and interior balconies. When I started in real estate in the mid-1980s, the Valley was booming with new construction. Builders had transitioned to 2x6 construction, allowing for improved insulation R-val ues—a significant advantage in our four-season climate. The 1990s brought a return to larger homes, some called “McMan sions,” with soaring entryways, grand chandeliers, and Palladian windows creating an upscale feel. Though visually impressive, limited floor plans and material options contributed to a more uniform appearance. Energy efficiency improvements contributed to lower heating bills, but sometimes caused poor air circulation and increased moisture and radon problems. Fortunately, ventila tion systems and air quality mitigation have become affordable options to maintain a home’s health. It’s easy to forget that newer homes built in the early 2000s are already approaching 20 years old, and may need updates too. With an influx of empty nesters and early retirees, trends shifted toward first-floor living options and multiple

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primary-bedroom suites. Many featured walkout lower levels that provide additional finished living space for recreation and guests. Demand grew for smart-home technology, stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, and granite countertops, with windows positioned for enhanced mountain views. Heated garages became an expectation, as did outdoor living spaces with elaborate patios and enlarged decks. Higher-end materials and custom craftsmanship highlight these well-designed newer homes. Golf courses, lakefront properties, and stunning moun tain views attracted wealthy buyers looking to age gracefully in our area. The post-pandemic era has further reshaped our housing market. With more people working and schooling from home, many sought out places they had previously vacationed, trans forming older homes into fabulous primary residences. This shift led to numerous improvement projects, making homes more functional for full-time living, with enhanced outdoor spaces, high-speed internet, and dedicated home offices. As buy ers began to expect smart-home features controlling lighting, security, temperature, and appliances, technology became a priority. High-speed internet is now a requirement for remote work, online learning, and modern entertainment needs. Sustainability has recently taken center stage. Energy efficiency moved from a perk to an expectation, with newer homes built with high-performance insulation, Energy Star appliances, and healthier indoor air systems. Solar panels, heat pumps, tankless water heaters, and whole-house generators have become increasingly common. Builders are incorporating sustainable materials and eco-friendly design choices that align with the region’s outdoor lifestyle. Improved building codes have produced better fire-resistant materials and more durable structural components. These modern quality-built or remodeled homes usually require less maintenance, thanks to longer-lasting materials and efficient systems. That said, no home is perfect! Some buyers feel newer homes lack charm, while others find new construction costs prohibitive. Location plays a role, as newer homes are less likely to be built in downtown areas or on larger parcels. Choosing between a newly built home or one needing updates becomes a personal decision based on budget, preferences, and dreams. Ultimately, finding the right home isn’t just about what you see on the market, but what you create once you have the keys. As you embark on your home-buying journey, surround yourself with trusted advisors who can illuminate your path. With the right insight and patience, you will soon be creating lasting memories and joy in your next home. Bernadette Donohue, REALTOR & Certified Residential Specialist, CRS. Serving the real estate needs of NH and ME since 1985. Contact Bernie at Badger Peabody & Smith Realty, [email protected], (603) 356-5757 x 700 or mobile (207) 542-9967

Bernadette Donohue, REALTOR & Certified Residential Specialist, CRS. Serving the real estate needs of NH and ME since 1985. Contact Bernie at Badger Peabody & Smith Realty, [email protected], (603) 356-5757 x 700 or mobile (207) 542-9967

Spring 2025

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To reduce size, and promote socializing, there is no separate dining room in this home. The dining alcove is open to the kitchen and living areas. 24

To reduce size, and promote socializing, there is no separate dining room in this home. The dining alcove is open to the kitchen and living areas.

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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MWV FINE HOMES: Green Design Basics

By John Cole and Anthony Giovanni Photos by Ed Wonsek Artworks Green design is often a priority for those seeking to build new or renovate a home. But what does “green design” mean and what are the key elements to consider?

By John Cole and Anthony Giovanni Photos by Ed Wonsek Artworks

Green design is often a priority for those seeking to build new or renovate a home. But what does “green design” mean and what are the key elements to consider?

Sronmental impact. Selection and sourcing of imply put, green design seeks to reduce energy consumption and use materials with low envi environmentally friendly materials are important— though beyond the scope of this article. The focus here is on practical ways to minimize energy usage and provide significant operating cost savings.

First Things First

Green design starts with questions about how to minimize the size of the home or the addition, while meeting the functional needs of the owner. Is an additional bathroom and bedroom needed for Aunt Minnie’s yearly visit when she could stay in a child’s bedroom or a short-term rental? Can different uses, such as working out and kids’ play, share the same space at different times? Is a dining room necessary or can it be combined into a great room with kitchen and living area? Is a dedicated room needed for a home office when a bedroom or living room bay can accommodate a laptop and a printer? The size of a home and the complexity of the volume are the biggest drivers of construction cost, as well as operating cost, so it makes sense to simplify and right size. Sarah Susanka’s Not So Big House series of books provides helpful principles and illustrations for reducing the size of a house while keeping it functional and spacious feeling.

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CONTINUOUS INSULATION OUTSIDE Continuous insulation may be added on outside or inside of the exterior walls. CONTINUOUS INSULATION INSIDE Adding continuous insulation on the inside of the exterior walls is simpler and less costly, though there is a slight decrease in continuity where vertical and horizontal studs cross.

Invest in the Building Envelope Smart Heating—and Cooling—Solution

CONTINUOUS INSULATION OUTSIDE Continuous insulation may be added on outside or inside of the exterior walls.

CONTINUOUS INSULATION INSIDE Adding continuous insulation on the inside of the exterior walls is simpler and less costly, though there is a slight decrease in continuity where vertical and horizontal studs cross.

Invest in the Building Envelope

Given a compact design, the next most important steps are to maximize insulation and minimize infiltration in the building envelope. Building codes have been increasing the R-value of insulation required for the past 30 years (R-value is a measure of resistance to heat flow) and recently many have added a Sealing seams and penetrations in the building envelope is equally important. Up to 25 percent of the heat loss (or cooling loss) in a typical home is due to air escaping through the walls and roof.

requirement for continuous insulation to prevent thermal bridges in the building envelope. Think of it as putting a sweater on the house so the wall studs don’t conduct heat directly to the exterior on a cold day [see illustrations above]. Adding insulation beyond that re quired by code is a good investment and provides the biggest bang for the buck. Various types of insulation can be used to accomplish this, but there are some environmental trade-offs with the higher R-value products. Triple-pane windows are worth considering as an additional way to increase the R-value of the overall envelope, but they have a longer payback period than insulation. Sealing seams and penetrations in the building envelope is equally important. Up to 25 percent of the heat loss (or cooling loss) in a typical home is due to air escaping through the walls and roof. Flexible tapes, caulking, and foam products need to be carefully installed from the foundation to the roof so gaps are closed. A blower door test to measure the amount of infil tration and identify air leaks prior to closing up walls is another good investment; some jurisdictions now require it. One note of caution: with tighter building envelopes, it is no longer possible to count on drafty windows for fresh air. Mechanical ventilation, discussed below, is imperative.

Smart Heating—and Cooling—Solution

For homeowners seeking efficient and reliable green heating solutions, ducted heat pump systems with propane backup are gaining popularity in the north country. This hybrid system combines the efficiency of a heat pump with the reliability of propane heating, along with distribution for balanced comfort. A ducted heat pump system operates by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. In warm weather, it extracts heat from inside the home and expels it outdoors, functioning as an air conditioner. In cold weather, it reverses the process, pulling heat from the outside air to warm the home. However, when temperatures drop significantly, heat pump efficiency decreases. To address this limitation, a propane backup system kicks in when the heat pump struggles to maintain indoor tem peratures. This dual-fuel approach ensures that homeowners benefit from the energy efficiency of a heat pump while having the reliability of propane heat during extreme cold. Compared to heating systems that rely solely on fossil fuels, a hybrid heat pump-propane system reduces carbon emissions.

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Design

ENERGY STANDARDS There are three widely recognized energy stan dards for home building: passive house, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and HERSÒ (Home Energy Rating System). Passive house, a system originating in Germany, has the most rigorous standards. Although the standards are open source, the “Certified Passive House” des ignation requires extensive documentation by an accredited passive house expert. The time and cost to achieve the certification are not worth it to most homeowners. LEED, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, is the most widely used energy rating system in the world. It is primarily used for large commercial, institutional, and multi-family residential buildings. The HERS Index is a nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance which has been adopted by the US Department of Energy. To qualify a certified HERS rater inspects the home (including a blower door test) and rates the house on a sliding scale which gives the homeowner an indication of how energy efficient their home is in comparison to other homes. A typical home built to 2006 energy efficiency standards scores 100 in the HERS Index. A home with a HERS Index score of 70 is 30% more energy efficient than a standard new home; a score of 130 is 30% less efficient than a standard new home. A HERS Index score can be used by homeowners to apply for state and federal tax credits, and they are also beginning to be used by real estate agents to compare properties. The cost of a certified HERS rating is reasonable, and it can provide tangible benefits.

The HERS Index is a nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance which has been adopted by the US Department of Energy. To qualify a certified HERS rater inspects the home (including a blower door test) and rates the house on a sliding scale which gives the homeowner an indication of how energy efficient their home is in comparison to other homes. A typical home built to 2006 energy efficiency standards scores 100 in the HERS Index. A home with a HERS Index score of 70 is 30% more energy efficient than a standard new home; a score of 130 is 30% less efficient than a standard new home. A HERS Index score can be used by homeowners to apply for state and federal tax credits, and they are also beginning to be used by real estate agents to compare properties. The cost of a certified HERS rating is reasonable, and it can provide tangible benefits.

Spring 2025

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LEFT: This is the interface between solar panels and the electrical box—where excess power is diverted to the utility grid for a credit to the homeowner. RIGHT: Ductwork for an HRV unit, which transfers heat between incoming and outgoing air, must be planned for from the start. This Greek Revival inspired farmstead was super insulated to achieve a HERS score of -30, which means it produces more energy than it consumes. The local utility company pays the owner for the excess electricity generated by the solar panels.

This Greek Revival inspired farmstead was super insulated to achieve a HERS score of -30, which means it produces more energy than it consumes. The local utility company pays the owner for the excess electricity generated by the solar panels.

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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Homeowners can also opt for renewable energy sources to power the heat pump, such as solar panels, further minimizing environmental impact [see house photo on previous page ]. There are federal and state rebates and tax incentives for installing energy-efficient heat pumps. Energy-Efficient Ventilation

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Energy-Efficient Ventilation

In newer, air-tight buildings, ventilation is essential to pre vent mold growth and maintain indoor air quality. HRV (heat recovery ventilator) and ERV (energy recovery ventilator) are both ventilation systems designed to improve indoor air quality by exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. However, they differ in how they handle heat and moisture.

HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator): Incoming cold fresh air is tempered by warm, exiting air; there is no moisture transferred. It is best for colder climates where retaining heat is important but humidity control is not a major concern.

ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator): This system transfers both heat and moisture between air streams, helping to balance humidity levels. It is ideal for climates with extreme temperatures and humidity (either very humid or very dry).

There are two options for installing ventilation—the differ ence being how air is distributed. With a stand-alone system, the ventilation uses separate ductwork for distribution. Since the tubing is generally much smaller than required for heating and cooling, this is a great option for homes without other ductwork or difficult-to-access spaces due to design or construction constraints. The alternative is to interlock an HRV or ERV with the fan used for heating and cooling and utilize the ductwork of that system for distribution. Typically, the ventilation system would be set to run for 15 to 20 minutes per hour, but it can be programmed to run more or less as needed. Interlocking ventilation with the heating/cooling system saves money solely by utilizing the ductwork system already in place. A high performance, energy efficient home will provide long-term benefits to the homeowner (higher comfort level and lower operating costs) for only a small premium (0-5%) over a standard new home, built to current codes. The environment also benefits as fewer natural resources are consumed and less fossil fuel is used for heating and cooling. Creating such a home is not rocket science but it requires careful planning upfront and attention to detail during construction.

Spring 2025

Architect John Cole of Fryeburg and builder Anthony Giovanni, owner of MWV Fine Homes in Intervale, collaborate on high performance, energy efficient homes in the Mt. Washington Valley and western Maine, including the winner of New Hampshire Home Magazine’s, Excellence in Green Design Award.

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A R T I N T H E V A L L E Y THE ART OF KAREN EISENBERG By Karissa Masse WiseguyCreative.com photo

A R T I N T H E V A L L E Y THE ART OF KAREN EISENBERG By Karissa Masse

WiseguyCreative.com photo

Forging Jewelry from Tradition

“I love to work with my hands and let my hands do the work more than relying on machines. There is something very empowering and satisfying about moving metal, something that you can’t just move with your fingers. To be able to bend it and transform it.”

Etourist season begins, but, in fact, very year, the Mt. Washington Valley blooms in population as the summer we are a small community. With about 2,100 residents in North Conway, we regularly see our friends and neighbors in the grocery store, at the library, or on the trails. At times we’ll bump into an old teacher, or an important person who influenced us along our paths through life. For me, Karen Eisenberg is one of these people. I am an artist and gallery owner in North Conway, and as I reflect on the path that took me to where I am today, Karen stands out as a pivotal influence. An accomplished metalsmith and jewelry de signer who now showcases in my gallery, Karen first appeared in my life in 1992 as the new art teacher at Fryeburg Academy. As a budding artist in my sophomore year, I was enthralled with her completely novel approach to what became my first experience with fine art. Although I had previously developed some drawing skills, Karen’s completely academic approach, steeped in the rich traditions of ancient masters, drew me into a captivating world of Art with a capital “A.” The tacky craft projects and chalky tempera paint I had previously known were suddenly replaced with academic studies in contrast, values, proportions, and balance. We sat in dimly lit rooms, rendering moody still-life drawings. We wrestled with aluminum wire, turning lines into sculptural forms. We used fat Sharpies, completely shielded from our view, blindly exploring the contour lines of a live model—typically a fellow student standing up on top of the tables. Karen came to the arts at an early age. She grew up in Pomona, NY, a cre ative community just outside of NYC that is home to a lot of artists and musicians. At age 14, her family moved to Randolph, NH, which she described as a “difficult transition.” Since the public-school academics there were lagging behind her old school, she was placed into higher-level classes to compensate. The new school also couldn’t accommodate her hunger for art and music (she had also been studying cello), so her parents finally enrolled her at Gould Academy in Bethel, ME, for her junior and senior years. Gould had a strong art program, and she found an influential guide and mentor in Jim Owen, her ceramics and metalsmithing teacher. “He was someone I was afraid of, but he was also really encouraging. He made big, beautiful Japanese-looking pots and always encouraged us to focus on form. He’d tell you to stop, get off your [pottery] wheel, and look at your pot from far away. And he wanted us to leave some

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Gallery & Fine Crafts

DDiissccoovveerr tthhee AArrttss WWoorrkkss bbyy 3355 aarrttiissttss ttoo ddeelliigghhtt tthhee eeyyee! GGaalllleerryy -- WWoorrkksshhooppss -- EEvveennttss

DDiissccoovveerr tthhee AArrttss

WWoorrkkss bbyy 3355 aarrttiissttss ttoo ddeelliigghhtt tthhee eeyyee! GGaalllleerryy -- WWoorrkksshhooppss -- EEvveennttss

ArtWorks Chocorua Creative Arts Center www.ChocoruaArtworks.com 132 White Mountain Hwy./Rt. 16, Chocorua, NH • 603-323-8041 April & May open 10-5, Thur.-Mon.; June-December open Wed.-Mon. First Friday Receptions from 5-7 pm.

Professional summer theatre since 1931

Photos by Berlian Arts evidence of the process. He’d say, ‘Hmmm, untouched by human hands?’ encouraging us to leave our throwing lines visible, and stop fussing with perfection.” At Gould, Karen studied silversmith ing, pottery, and glassblowing. Upon graduation, she was accepted into the Rhode Island School of Design, where she majored in jewelry and metalsmithing. She spent a year in Rome through the “RISD in Rome” enrichment program, and wandered the city drawing and painting. After completing her undergraduate studies, she attended Boston University for a year, and then returned to RISD to complete her master’s in fine art. For a time, she apprenticed for a jeweler in NYC, making custom granulated 22k gold pieces, and then set up a metalsmithing studio for herself, exhibiting her work at the prestigious American Craft Council show. She also explored educational ca reer opportunities, guiding for Outward Bound, and substitute teaching at Gould, before landing her position at Fryeburg Academy, where she taught until her daughter Zoe was born in 1999. Karen returned to jewelry making when the demands of parenting began to ease, and has been a full-time jeweler ever since. I recently had the opportunity to visit Karen’s studio, and she showed me around, pointing out her favorite tools among the scraps of silver, gemstones, and works in progress stacked in trays. “I’m like a child playing that doesn’t like to put away their toys. It’s because I’m excited to get back to my project and I don’t want to lose my place. For me, it’s like a bookmark.” She gave me a Spring 2025

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Nick Thompson photo

“When you hold a mug made by hand, you’re connected to the person who made it. I like to think there is that sensibility in my jewelry. More and more I think about the arts being lost to computers and AI, with no hands involved. We’re losing touch with how things are made. But art is a piece of you that you’re sharing. It makes that human connection.” demonstration, tapping with a rawhide hammer and progressing through the process to describe her many hammers (chasing, riveting, planishing, raising), each designed to form metal in a different way. “You can Zen out doing this. I love to work with my hands and let my hands do the work more than relying on machines. There is something very empowering and satisfying about moving metal, something that you can’t just move with your fingers. To be able to bend it and transform it.” Karen Eisenberg’s jewelry is most recognizable for its surface patterns and textures. She uses a lot of silver clay, a material that is actually fine silver powder suspended in an organic clay matter. When fired in the kiln, the organic material burns away, leaving nothing behind but the pure silver. The resulting porous nature of this metal creates a wonderful bright white matte finish that beautifully lends itself to Karen’s textures and patterns. She sometimes enhances the contrast of these textures with an an cient Korean technique called Keum Boo, in which 24k gold foil is heat-bonded to the silver. Other times she uses a patina to blacken the silver, or simply burnishes the top surfaces to make them gleam. Many of her designs include circle themes that she calls “mandalas,” and ab stract leaf textures that have a somewhat tribal sensibility. Her work also has some Japanese influence, retaining an under stated delicacy even in its boldness, along with her decisions to leave some sponta neity—some evidence of a moment, just as her teacher had once encouraged. There are subtleties of Karen’s work that point directly back to her roots in ceramics. Just as a good piece of pottery has the right weight and feel in the hand, each element of her jewelry has similarly been thoughtfully considered. Often her finishing process takes longer than the actual building of a piece. To be worn on the body, it needs to be smooth, comfort able, durable, and fully functional. She is also very much interested in the philoso phy of hand-crafted work. Similarly, Karen enjoys making cus tom-jewelry pieces for people. She loves the community connection that draws people to find her and her work, and the personal connection that develops throughout the design process for a set of custom wedding bands, or a necklace commissioned to mark a special occasion. The jewelry becomes more meaningful because the connection is also shared with the maker. “Jewelry has to have a spark. I try to make it mine, not to imitate someone else’s. It’s difficult not to be influenced by your surroundings. Sometimes in the design process, I just let my hands do what they do. It is like your unique fingerprint. Everyone’s hands move in a different way.” We are all connected and touch each other in an infinite number of ways. Even if you haven’t met Karen Eisenberg in person, you’ve probably been in close proximity with her, or her beautiful jewel ry, here in our small town. And similarly, Karen’s contribution and influence as an art teacher has touched the lives of hun dreds of creative people in our community.

demonstration, tapping with a rawhide hammer and progressing through the process to describe her many hammers (chasing, riveting, planishing, raising), each designed to form metal in a different way. “You can Zen out doing this. I love to work with my hands and let my hands do the work more than relying on machines. There is something very empowering and satisfying about moving metal, something that you can’t just move with your fingers. To be able to bend it and transform it.” Karen Eisenberg’s jewelry is most recognizable for its surface patterns and textures. She uses a lot of silver clay, a material that is actually fine silver powder suspended in an organic clay matter. When fired in the kiln, the organic material burns away, leaving nothing behind but the pure silver. The resulting porous nature of this metal creates a wonderful bright white matte finish that beautifully lends itself to Karen’s textures and patterns. She sometimes enhances the contrast of these textures with an an cient Korean technique called Keum Boo, in which 24k gold foil is heat-bonded to the silver. Other times she uses a patina to blacken the silver, or simply burnishes the top surfaces to make them gleam. Many of her designs include circle themes that she calls “mandalas,” and ab stract leaf textures that have a somewhat tribal sensibility. Her work also has some Japanese influence, retaining an under stated delicacy even in its boldness, along with her decisions to leave some sponta neity—some evidence of a moment, just as her teacher had once encouraged. There are subtleties of Karen’s work that point directly back to her roots in ceramics. Just as a good piece of pottery has the right weight and feel in the hand, each element of her jewelry has similarly been thoughtfully considered. Often her finishing process takes longer than the actual building of a piece. To be worn on the body, it needs to be smooth, comfort able, durable, and fully functional. She is also very much interested in the philoso phy of hand-crafted work. Similarly, Karen enjoys making cus tom-jewelry pieces for people. She loves the community connection that draws people to find her and her work, and the personal connection that develops throughout the design process for a set of custom wedding bands, or a necklace commissioned to mark a special occasion. The jewelry becomes more meaningful because the connection is also shared with the maker. “Jewelry has to have a spark. I try to make it mine, not to imitate someone else’s. It’s difficult not to be influenced by your surroundings. Sometimes in the design process, I just let my hands do what they do. It is like your unique fingerprint. Everyone’s hands move in a different way.” We are all connected and touch each other in an infinite number of ways. Even if you haven’t met Karen Eisenberg in person, you’ve probably been in close proximity with her, or her beautiful jewel ry, here in our small town. And similarly, Karen’s contribution and influence as an art teacher has touched the lives of hun dreds of creative people in our community.

Karen Eisenberg’s work can be found at the League of NH Craftsmen Gallery, 2526 White Mountain Highway, North Conway Village. www.nhcraftsmen.com (603) 356-2441 www.kareneisenberg.com

Karissa Masse is owner and curator of the historical League of NH Craftsmen Fine Craft Gallery in North Conway Village, representing over 250 NH artists and craftsmen in the non-profit organization. She is also an artist in her own right, with a BFA in ceramics and sculpture from RIT. In addition to making pottery and managing the gallery, Karissa developed the craft education program there, and teaches alongside numerous pottery and craft educators in the community-based Creative Studios. Karissa’s work at the North Conway League of NH Craftsmen Gallery continues to provide economic support to hundreds of New Hampshire’s craftsmen, and enriches the Mt. Washing ton Valley community with art, culture, and craft education.

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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MT. WASHINGTON VALLEY ARTISTS & GALLERIES

ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts 132 White Mountain Highway, Chocorua, NH • (603) 323-8041 www.chocoruaartworks.com Louise Perry of Vintage Frameworks 28 Norcross Circle, North Conway, NH (603) 356-7711 www.vintageframeworks.com

ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts 132 White Mountain Highway, Chocorua, NH • (603) 323-8041 www.chocoruaartworks.com

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

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

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

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

Edge of Maine Art & Framing 182 Main Street, Brownfield, ME (207) 935-2817 www.edgeofmaine.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NW Cassidy Fine Art (603) 662-2074 [email protected]

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

Roger C. Williams Fine Art 125 Main Street, Lovell, ME (207) 925-3380 www.rogerwilliamsfineart.com

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

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

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

Three Sisters Gallery Studio 36 Exchange Street, Gorham, NH (603) 915-2175 www.the3sistersgallery.com

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

White Mountain Artisans Gallery 3358 Route 16, North Conway, NH (603) 356-6546

White Mountain Photography 95 Main St, Jackson, NH • (603) 374-6050 www.whitemountainphoto.com

With These Hands Pottery 397 Tasker Hill Road, Conway, NH (207) 256-2522 www.withthesehandspottery.com Please report corrections or additional galleries to [email protected].

F I N E C R A F T G A L L E R Y Karen Eisenberg

Loring Cheney
William Taylor
Jordana Korsen

Showcasing New Hampshire’s since 1932 www.nhcraftsmen.com 603-356-2441 2526 Main St. North Conway Village

Spring 2025

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Left to right: Cheese Louise general manager, Jasmine Schmidt; Cheese Louise co-owner Bryce Harrison; Sap House Meadery owner and co-founder, Matt Trahan; Saco River Brewing owner, Mason Irish; Cheese Louise co-owner, James Gaudreault. NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

By Andrew Schuyler

Next Generation Eateries Creating a Tasty Fresh Hub for North Conway Village

Wrecently renovated Norcross hile Boston has long been known as the Hub of the Universe, the Place–which houses Sap House Meadery, Saco River Brewing Taphaus, and Cheese Louise–is quickly becoming the Hub of North Conway. Locals and visitors are finding a variety of eclectic culinary and beverage options in the unique space located in the heart of North Conway Vil lage, at the intersection of Route 16 and Kearsarge Road. Sap House Meadery, Saco River Brew ing Taphaus, and Cheese Louise are pro viding an essential anchor to an area that hosts such icons as Zeb’s General Store, the Conway Scenic Railway, and Horse feathers. Patrons will, no doubt, want to soak up the views of the Moat Mountains, tions, and are bolstering the economic sustainability of North Conway Village.

Cheese Louise @eatcheeselouise

In many ways, Cheese Louise is a reflec tion of the gracefully transformed space it occupies; it takes the basic concept of a grilled cheese sandwich and makes it decadent. Adorned with multiple garage doors that open to the patio and vibrant artwork, the restaurant creates a lively, open, and inviting atmosphere. Jasmine Schmidt, who manages the North Conway location, says that since opening last June, the community has shown “overwhelming support and just a genuinely warm reception.” Noting that she and the founders all graduated from Kennett High School, cation for a few years and didn’t want to settle for something that wasn’t perfect.” From artisan sandwiches such as The Godmother (tomatoes, basil, pesto, balsamic glaze, and mozzarella on Tuscan pane) and The Baconator (cheddar, muenster, and bacon on Tuscan pane), to soups and salads, Cheese Louise caters to a range of tastes and ages. It also offers local beer and cocktails. The location is becoming a community resource. In addition to hosting live music and open mic nights, it provides space for activities such as swing dancing lessons, writing workshops, and a nonpartisan political forum called Democracy on Tap. The company has seasonal locations in Settlers Green and on the Kancamagus Highway, as well as permanent locations

Patrons will, no doubt, want to soak up the views of the Moat Mountains, Schouler Park, and Cranmore from the building’s roof decks and streetside patio offerings, particularly as daylight extends and the weather warms.

Schouler Park, and Cranmore from the building’s roof decks and streetside patio offerings, particularly as daylight extends and the weather warms. These three businesses cherish their New Hampshire roots, engage with community organiza

Schmidt says that a permanent North Conway location had been a long-term goal. “Our newest location is in the most central part of North Conway—and really, the Valley—and gets great foot traffic,” Schmidt says. “We had our eye on this lo in Portland and Portsmouth. Its Chees in’ For a Reason philanthropic program contributes a portion of certain sales to a local non-profit, with the North Con way-based Kismet Rock Foundation being the beneficiary this year.

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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With North Conway being named (yet again!) the best ski town in North America by USA TODAY, it’s perhaps fitting that Sap House Meadery, Saco River Brewing Ta phaus, and Cheese Louise have settled into the former home of the legendary Carroll Reed Ski Shop. Much like members of a successful ski team, the three enterprises fully support each other—they even have a large, shared restroom facility inside the rear of the building—and recognize the truism that a rising tide floats all boats. Saco River Brewing Taphaus @sacoriverbrewing

Saco River Brewing Taphaus @sacoriverbrewing

When asked why he chose Norcross Place, Saco River Brewing’s founder and head brewer Mason Irish is direct—and enthusiastic—in his response. “It’s the premier location in North Conway Village, with a rooftop deck that over looks everything,” says Irish, who has lived in Center Conway for several decades. “When you put your finger on the absolute nucleus of downtown North Conway, this is the place.” Saco River Brewing Taphaus opened in February to widespread community anticipation. “There was real excitement about the project and the response has been awesome. People were anxious, including me, because it took a long time to get to where we are, but everyone seems to think it’s turned out great,” says Irish. With its main brewery operation just over the border in Fryeburg, the Saco River Brewing Taphaus is boosting North Conway’s craft beer scene by offering a wide selection of IPAs, ales, lagers, porters, hard seltzer, and barrel-aged varieties. The brewery’s tagline is “Great Water Makes Great Beer!” Irish passionately believes this, Spring 2025

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adding, “Fryeburg has the best water in the state of Maine.” Patrons can enjoy beer selections at multi-level bars, accom panied with sandwiches, salads, and pizza. They can also pur chase four-packs of cans to carry out. (Tip: try the Hornet’s Nest Double IPA, but be warned that a pint brings a sting at 8% ABV!) Saco River Brewing Taphaus is following the lead of its parent enterprise by supporting local non-profits, such as land trusts, recreational outfits, and educational groups through ing honey with water. “I feel like I’ve spent my entire life educating people about meads,” jokes Matt Trahan, owner and co-founder of Sap House Meadery and North Conway resident. Meads are extremely adaptable and can be fused with a range of flavors, such as raspberry, blueberry, or maple, to create almost any style of alcoholic beverage. Trahan stresses that a common misconception about meads is that they are all Trahan believes that the location he shares with Saco River Brewing Taphaus and Cheese Louise will help “revamp North Conway Village into more of an experiential place and add a spark to the nightlife.”

Trahan believes that the location he shares with Saco River Brewing Taphaus and Cheese Louise will help “revamp North Conway Village into more of an experiential place and add a spark to the nightlife.”

fundraisers and other events. Indeed, this spring the brewery will release its Round Pond Pilsner, a collaboration with the Frye burg Water District, which works to protect regional water quality.

Sap House Meadery @saphousemeadery

Having blossomed beyond its original tasting room in Ossipee, Sap House Meadery offers both a robust selection of meads, along with a full-service restaurant. For readers unfamiliar with honey’s versatility, mead is an alcoholic beverage with a long history—it predates wine and beer—that is created by ferment sweet. In fact, they can be made to satisfy drier tastes. The company was founded in 2011 and, according to Trah an, strongly encourages employees to be curious and creative, but “never pretentious.” And, in an effort to be approachable and accessible to all tastes and ages, Sap House Meadery offers an array of non-mead-based beers, cocktails, and mocktails. In terms of cuisine, Sap House Meadery has a number of ap petizers, shareables, and entrées that use many local or regional products. The menu includes a variety of appealing options, from seared scallops and a smash burger, to a Mediterranean

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL! AND THEN THERE’S BREETOS! Directly across from Norcross Circle is another newcomer to down town, Breetos. Owned and operated by Brein Matturro, Breetos offer fresh rolled “walking” burritos. Maximizing the small space, Breetos cooks everything in-house with the freshest ingredients and unique menu items. While serving a variety of pulled meats—spiced to your liking— they also cater to the vegan and gluten-free crowd. This sum mer, Breetos will have soft-serve ice cream, nachos, and pre-rolled burritos, for quick grab and go service. Stop by and try a burrito or check out the menu at www.breetos.com. Brein is pictured here with her husband, and former Ben & Gerry’s store owner, Vinnie Matturo.

THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL!

AND THEN THERE’S BREETOS! Directly across from Norcross Circle is another newcomer to down town, Breetos. Owned and operated by Brein Matturro, Breetos offer fresh rolled “walking” burritos. Maximizing the small space, Breetos cooks everything in-house with the freshest ingredients and unique menu items. While serving a variety of pulled meats—spiced to your liking— they also cater to the vegan and gluten-free crowd. This sum mer, Breetos will have soft-serve ice cream, nachos, and pre-rolled burritos, for quick grab and go service. Stop by and try a burrito or check out the menu at www.breetos.com. Brein is pictured here with her husband, and former Ben & Gerry’s store owner, Vinnie Matturo.

veggie pocket and a warm spinach and walnut salad. Having opened in February, Trahan believes that the loca tion he shares with Saco River Brewing Taphaus and Cheese Louise will help “revamp North Conway Village into more of an experiential place and add a spark to the nightlife.” Additionally, Sap House Meadery plans to engage with the community through such ventures as its partnership with the Mt. Washington Valley Arts Association by promi nently showcasing local artists’ work and offering it for sale. As spring and mud season take hold, these businesses are enhancing the vibrancy of North Conway Village and the greater Mt. Washington Valley.

Spring 2025

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The Season

Mud of By Dave Greenslit 38

Mud of By Dave Greenslit

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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“There is a reason, it’s called mud season, recently freezing, but now we’re stuck Ya know it’s better, in this spring weather to leave the minivan at home and take the pickup truck …” So goes the first verse of “Mud Season Blues,” an ode to the so-called fifth season, written by Russ Lanoie, who’s been getting down and dirty in Mt. Washington Valley mud for decades.

“There is a reason, it’s called mud season, recently freezing, but now we’re stuck Ya know it’s better, in this spring weather to leave the minivan at home and take the pickup truck …”

So goes the first verse of “Mud Season Blues,” an ode to the so-called fifth season, written by Russ Lanoie, who’s been getting down and dirty in Mt. Washington Valley mud for decades.

Imuddy pits capable of stopping the likes of t’s that time of year when dirt roads become pot-holed and washboarded, at times hosting minivans in their tracks. And when the hundreds of miles of trails snaking through the White Moun tains can be covered with puddles or mud capable of sucking hiking boots right off your feet. Lanoie has maintained dozens of dirt roads in local developments and miles of private driveways, so he knows a thing or two about mud season. He’s written a book on the topic, called A Ditch in Time: An owner’s manual for those who live and travel on dirt and gravel roads. And he invented a contrap tion called the “Front Runner,” an attachment for the front of vehicles that has metal tines to grade, remove debris, and help dry dirt roads. Here’s how Lanoie explains mud season: Soil, including that on unpaved roads, containing water can freeze almost as hard as concrete. In the spring, warmth from the sun thaws the surface while heat from the earth thaws from below. However, the frost in the middle, which can be several feet thick, sticks around and prevents surface water from draining and the soil from drying, resulting in what Lanoie calls “one of New Hampshire’s most beloved yearly occurrences.” Mud season.

Spring 2025

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Russ Lanoie photo

Russ Lanoie photo ABOVE LEFT: Class 6 Albert Road in Madison. ABOVE: Russ Lanoie is pictured with his trademarked FrontRunner attachment, which can be mounted in place of a plow and used for grading dirt and gravel roads and driveways. ABOVE RIGHT: Eroded soils and silt plumes from unstable sources, including surrounding roads and improperly managed construction sites, can easily be seen here entering Big Pea Porridge Pond. See www.peaporridgepond.org/watershed-management-plan for additional information and photos. RIGHT: Hiking trails without proper draining quickly become unpassable during mud season. SectionHiker.com photo.

Russ Lanoie photo

ABOVE LEFT: Class 6 Albert Road in Madison. ABOVE: Russ Lanoie is pictured with his trademarked FrontRunner attachment, which can be mounted in place of a plow and used for grading dirt and gravel roads and driveways. ABOVE RIGHT: Eroded soils and silt plumes from unstable sources, including surrounding roads and improperly managed construction sites, can easily be seen here entering Big Pea Porridge Pond. See www.peaporridgepond.org/watershed-management-plan for additional information and photos. RIGHT: Hiking trails without proper draining quickly become unpassable during mud season. SectionHiker.com photo.

A good road has a strong, well-drained base; and a hard, compacted surface with a crown to shed water rather than let it

A poorly built dirt road can be more than an annoyance for motorists. Lanoie says runoff from roads and other devel

Conway plows 10 miles of dirt roads in the winter and maintains a total of 16 miles in the other seasons, according to informa

“A good gravel road is much more maintainable than a lousy paved road—think frost heaves—because it can be regraded once it dries out in the spring.”

sit, according to Lanoie. He also notes that Conway has good public dirt roads and does a good job with them. However, freeze-thaw cycles make maintenance a never-ending task, he says, forcing the town to play Whack-a-Mole to fill or regrade soft spots. Lanoie adds, “A good gravel road is much more maintainable than a lousy paved road—think frost heaves—because it can be regraded once it dries out in the spring.”

opment contaminates waterways. He has a poster-size photo that he uses for presentations that shows the confluence of the Swift and Saco rivers in Conway. The Saco has noticeably more silt than the Swift because the Saco runs through more development. Lanoie also points to the development near Big Pea Porridge Pond, which has tainted the watershed. A non-profit association has been formed to help mitigate the problems.

tion supplied by the Public Works Depart ment. Common problems are washouts, potholes, and washboard conditions. Mud season can include closed roads. The town grades its roads, adds gravel, and clears ditches as routine maintenance to mitigate problems. In the spring, it imposes a 10-ton weight limit for vehicles on dirt roads. Permits can be obtained for heavier trucks and a bond posted to cover any damage. Jackie White, project administrator in the Public Works Department, remembers her first year in the department when she took a call from a resident who told her a dirt road was “all stoved up.” I went to Paul DegliAngeli, the public works director at the time, and asked him what it meant. He laughed and said it meant the road is in bad condition with potholes. I grew up in this town and somehow never heard the term “all stoved up.”We still laugh about that sometimes. Bill Marvel also grew up in Conway, and on one of its dirt roads: Davis Hill Road. Mud season meant about six weeks of parking a half mile from the family’s house and slogging up the hill carrying groceries.

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Bob Christiansen photo

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Philip Werner, SectionHiker.com photo

“Sometimes my father would go down to work and find that the gas had been siphoned out of his truck,” Marvel recalled. The town used to block off part of the road each spring, but as Marvel tells it, that didn’t stop “the stupid and the adventuresome” from moving the sawhorses and tempting fate. Most got stuck, and his father used a logging chain to pull out a couple of vehicles each year, “usually with consid erable cosmetic damage.” Part of Davis Hill Road, from Old Mill Road to the first intersection with Henderson Road, has been paved. But from that junction to Brownfield Road, where Marvel lives, remains dirt. “The town has done wonders in terms of making the road passable, but it’s actually a lot safer when it’s too bumpy for speed,” he said, “and I always wish they would wait longer between gradings. A rough road keeps the dust down and makes life along its edges a lot more pleasant.”

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Russ Lanoie photo

Finn the mud-loving dog ABOVE LEFT: Appropriately named road near Squam Lake. ABOVE: Finn the dog, doesnt seem to mind the mud ... as long as it comes with a view. RIGHT: Various casualties of muddy situations around the Valley and national forest trials.

Finn the mud-loving dog

ABOVE LEFT: Appropriately named road near Squam Lake. ABOVE: Finn the dog, doesnt seem to mind the mud ... as long as it comes with a view. RIGHT: Various casualties of muddy situations around the Valley and national forest trials.

Boots on the Ground … and in the Mud The arrival of warm weather spawns mud season off-road, too, including hiking trails, which become wet, muddy, and at times, impassable. Those conditions not only make for unpleasant outings for hikers rather than run down it. Philip Werner has spent a lot of time on the region’s trails, and he’s all too fa miliar with mud. The editor of the popular SectionHiker.com website and author of a book on hiking over age 60, Werner has as Vermud, asks hikers to stay off the Long Trail, as well. The Forest Service does not close trails during mud season, but it does encourage people to hike where it dries out faster, like south-facing slopes; to wear good

Werner has come up with three classifications of mud on the trails: sucking mud that slows you down; slick or cake frosting mud that makes you slip; and mystery mud, submerged under a puddle, in which you don’t know what you’re getting into.

and others who use the trails, but they set the stage for damaging them, and the surrounding ecosystem, if people don’t stay off when they are at their most fragile. Dylan Alden, a staffer at Saco station of the U.S. Forest Service, says the biggest problem hikers create in mud season is walking around puddles trying to keep their feet dry. This widens the trails and tramples surrounding vegetation. “Waterproof your boots and walk straight through puddles,” Alden said. “I give you permission to be a kid again! The more you try to keep your feet dry, the more damage it’s causing. If you can hop on a resilient surface, such as rocks, that will help lessen the damage to the trail edges.” Besides educating hikers and other trail users, the Forest Service tries to mitigate damage through maintenance, including diverting runoff from trails to minimize erosion, rerouting sections, and, where possible, building new trails that follow a side hill, so water will cross a trail hiked all of the trails in the White Mountain Guide—twice—and there are more than 650 of them. He’s also completed the Grid, which involves hiking each of New Hamp shire’s 48 official 4,000-foot mountains in each month of the year, which totals 576 summits. Werner has come up with three classi fications of mud on the trails: sucking mud that slows you down; slick or cake frosting mud that makes you slip; and mystery mud, submerged under a puddle, in which you don’t know what you’re getting into. Werner notes that the trails in the White Mountains are very rocky, affording the opportunity to stay on durable surfac es during mud season. He says the bigger issue is high water from snowmelt in streams and rivers, which makes crossings dangerous. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy recommends letting trails “rest” in April and May, and the Green Mountain Club, in Vermont, a state known among AT hikers boots, stick to the center of trails and step on rocks, if possible; and to turn around if conditions are too wet and muddy. Werner says hiking mountains on the 52 With A View list, all under 4,000 feet, are good choices in spring. Mount Israel, in the Sandwich Range, is one of his favorites. And Alden suggests hiking dirt roads as an alternative to trails, including Rob Brook Road, off Bear Notch Road; Deer Hill Road in Chatham; Rocky Branch off Jericho Road to the river crossing; and roads in the Moat Mountain area. While climate change has made the beginning and end of mud season unpredictable, sooner or later it will end. Alas, then another unwelcome time of the year will be upon us, as Lanoie notes at the end of his ditty ...

“So just keep on looking for some drier ground. But be warned by this song ... That soon those dreaded black flies come along.”

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Courtesy photo

U.S. Forest Service photo Russ Lanoie photo

U.S. Forest Service photo

Russ Lanoie photo

Spring 2025

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SIGNS OF SPRING

Turtles, Frogs, Peepers, & other Various Valley Road-Crossers By Matt Maloney, Tin Mountain Conservation Center

By Matt Maloney, Tin Mountain Conservation Center Road-Crossing Turtles Sand-Kicking Snappers Spring Signs Wood Turtles

Turtles, Frogs, Peepers, & other Various Valley Road-Crossers

By Matt Maloney, Tin Mountain Conservation Center

Well before the trees leaf out and the snow leaves the mountains, signs of spring start to fill the valley air with welcome songs on warm evenings. These joyful signs of spring bring fulfillment after a long winter.

Aloud calls of thousands of spring s the ice thaws back to the edges of wetlands and ponds in April, the peepers begin to carry through the air, permeating it with a sense of urgency. The riotous vitality of the spring season can be felt within the chorus of so many tiny frogs as well as the emergence of various turtles.

Road-Crossing Turtles

Along with the resounding choruses of our early spring breeding frogs, there is the springtime emergence of turtles on the first warm days of April. People don’t really notice turtles until they appear upon the land or bask on logs and rocks. Our common painted and snapping turtles are water creatures, but the females travel to land once a year to lay their eggs. This is when residents and visitors to the Mt. Washington Valley will start noticing tur tles crossing the roads. As you can imagine, crossing a road is quite a precarious predicament for a turtle, and unfortunately, most turtles are unaware that roads have huge metal objects barreling down them night and day. Meanwhile, mother turtles love sandy areas for digging up and incubating their eggs, as sand warms up quickly, so road sides make ideal egg-laying spots. Where there is a road adjacent to a wetland, there will be crossing turtles come spring. Both painted (Chrysemys picta) and snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) lay their eggs at similar times, from around late May to the middle of June. In recent years, turtles have been seen crossing roads even in the middle of May, likely due to the warmer and earlier springs caused by climate change.

Sand-Kicking Snappers

So, be on the lookout for crossing tur tles between mid-May and mid-June. If you’re lucky, you may be able to pull over alongside a rural road and see a mother laying her eggs. The Brownfield Bog, a few miles south of Fryeburg, is a great place to look for egg-laying snapping and painted turtles in the spring, well away from busy roads. One year at the Brownfield Bog, a bunch of elementary school students from Fryeburg and I got to see a mother snapping turtle lay 21 eggs, before she proceeded to hastily kick sand on them with her thick hind legs and crawl back to the water. Each snapping turtle egg is about the size of a ping pong ball and will incubate underground until they hatch out in late summer. Often, the eggs are dug up and eaten by wildlife such as raccoons or skunks. Sometimes, if the eggs don’t mature in time, the eggs will incubate all winter and baby turtles will emerge in the spring. This explains the one-inch-long snapping turtle I saw wandering alongside the Saco River one May day. Nature is not always so predictable.

Spring Signs

With the danger to crossing turtles this time of year, it is good to be alert and slow down when driving near bodies of water. The busy North-South Road in North Conway is adjacent to Pudding Pond and its surrounding marsh. Turtles often cross the road when looking for good egg-lay ing places in May or June, and if you drive through this time of year, you may see some turtle crossing signs. Local resident Emily Smith-Mossman of North Country Jewelers has placed the signs to remind drivers to slow down and look out for tur tles. It’s a good reminder that we share this world with other creatures that are also going about their lives. West Side Road is also adjacent to wetlands that bring about road-crossing turtles in the spring, so drive carefully wherever there are adjacent wet lands come springtime.

Wood Turtles

Some of the creatures going about their lives have become so rare that most peo ple are unaware of their existence. Such is the case with the wood turtle (Clemmys insculpta). The shell of the wood turtle is a marvel of exquisite design. Intricately carved by nature, each scute, or scale, of the wood turtle’s carapace (the term for the upper shell), is a cascading series of ridged rays that spill out from a central point like sunbeams. The edges of the carapace are slightly curved upward, espe cially toward the rear. It’s the most intricate shell, and I think it is the most beautifully designed of all turtle shells anywhere. I saw my first wood turtle shell as a 1st-grader when my mother’s uncle

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Spring 2025

As you can imagine, crossing a road is quite a precarious predicament for turtles, and other creatures. Unfortunately, they are unaware that roads have huge metal objects barreling down them night and day. Courtesy photo

Courtesy photo

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Josh Megyesy and NH Fish and Game

Courtesy photo Emily Smith-Mossman

Courtesy photo Peeping Peepers Clucking Wood Frogs

Courtesy photo
Emily Smith-Mossman
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo

Courtesy photo

TOP: Be on the lookout for road-crossing painted and snapping turtles between mid-May and mid-June around the Valley. Valley residents have taken it upon themselves to help warn motorists. These signs, in particular, were donated by the White Mountain Independents. BOTTOM LEFT: The pickerel frog’s vocalizations sound just like a snore. BOTTOM CENTER: Peepers, often no bigger than a fingernail, tend to get louder as spring temps get warmer. BOTTOM RIGHT: Wood frogs will stop clucking as you approach, but if you remain still, they will eventually restart their clucking pursuit of their mates.

presented me with a recently found wood turtle shell on a visit. The shell became my school show-and-tell item shortly thereafter. These gorgeous wood turtles used to be relatively common along slow-moving rivers and streams and their adjacent fields and forests throughout New England. Myriad factors, including habitat loss and change, have significantly reduced their numbers. In the Upper Saco River Valley of Conway and adjacent towns, wood turtles are “not doing well,” according to Josh Megysey, a wildlife biologist with New Hampshire Fish and Game. In the Upper Saco Valley, Megysey says, “Many of the suitable stream habitats used by wood tur tles have been heavily used for recreation for many decades. Areas that were once traditional nesting point bars in streams have become popular canoeing/tubing/ camping/swimming areas.” Wood turtles, like painted and snap ping turtles, are tied to rivers and streams. The sandy point bars that form from the carried sediments of slow rivers like the Saco are prime nesting spots. Even in con servation lands, human recreational use is closely followed by raccoons, skunks, and pet dogs that dig up and destroy wood turtle nests. People sometimes take them home as pets or poach them for sale on the black market. Because of this, it is essential never to make specific nest sites or frequent sighting areas of wood turtles public information through social media or other means. It is shameful that some seek to profit by removing this creature from the wild ille gally, never to reproduce, as their numbers decline. Wood turtles are still in our area, though, and are occasionally spotted as far upstream in the Saco watershed as the lower Ellis River. Wood turtles are doing bet ter with less development and recreation pressure north of the White Mountains.

Peeping Peepers

The spring peeper is indeed a tiny frog, light brown with a distinctive brown “x” marking on its back. (Hence the crucifix reference in its Latin name, Hyla crucifer I remember my delight as an adolescent upon finally finding my first spring peeper in the glare of my flashlight. The frog was no bigger than my fingernail! As I quickly let it go to rejoin its own kind, I marveled that such a loud sound could come from creatures so small. Unlike the peeps that come from an individual spring peeper, a chorus of thousands of them creates a jingle often compared to the sounds of sleigh bells. And as the spring nights get warmer, the louder the peepers get. This vigorous chorus emanating from a wetland on a warm April or May night with moonlight shimmering over water will make you feel ever so intensely alive and present.

Clucking Wood Frogs

About the same time as the peepers start their chorus, the duck-like clucking of the larger wood frogs starts to sound from socalled vernal pools that form in the forest here and there in spring. Many a person has heard this sound and never equated it with the sound of a frog. The clucks of the wood frogs are fleeting, though, only lasting for a week or two. Before you know it, the wood frogs have mated, laid eggs, and then hopped back into their forest habitat. This spring, make a point to listen for the wood frogs clucking whenever you are in or at the edge of low-elevation woods

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“Big Nights”ahead for freshly active, slimy little critters on the move Add the spotted salamander to the list of road crossers in the Valley. Tin Mountain, and at times, New Hampshire Stake Parks, will hold a “Big Night(s)” event, typically in early April. Such events are characterized by hundreds of freshly active, slimy critters crawling their slow way towards vernal pools. Inactive all winter, their motivation, as soon as they wake up from this strange slumber, is to move to a vernal pool to find a mate.

“Big Nights”ahead for freshly active, slimy little critters on the move

Add the spotted salamander to the list of road crossers in the Valley. Tin Mountain, and at times, New Hampshire Stake Parks, will hold a “Big Night(s)” event, typically in early April. Such events are characterized by hundreds of freshly active, slimy critters crawling their slow way towards vernal pools. Inactive all winter, their motivation, as soon as they wake up from this strange slumber, is to move to a vernal pool to find a mate.

While spotted salamanders can also be found crossing West Side Road around the Cathedral Ledge area, Tin Mountain will typically hold their annual “Big Night” pop-up program, ad jacent to vernal pools along Bald Hill Road in Albany. Warm rainy nights, usually over 40 de grees, will bring about the big migration. Scan the code below to be added to a Tin Mountain list for additional information.

Thank you to local critter-saver, Carissa Milliman, for these images, as well as her–and many others’–efforts to aid in the annual local road-crossing, mate-searching migration.

on a warm, sunny April day. Once you hear the sound, slowly make your way toward its source. Wood frogs will stop clucking once you get close. Don’t be dismayed—this means you’re very close. If you remain still, they will even tually restart their clucking pursuit of mates and betray their breeding pool to you. Look for bubbles in the water and their snouts and eyes protruding above the water line.

Snoring Pickerel Frogs

On a still night at the end of April or in early May, while the peepers are still peeping and shortly after the wood frogs have stopped their clucking, head to a wetland with open water and listen carefully. You might hear the soft snores of the pickerel frog. The pickerel frog’s vocalizations sound just like a snore, or a hand being rubbed across a balloon. Like all frogs, pickerel frogs make their sounds with their heads above the water level. The elastic skin around their throats inflates with air from their lungs, reverberating their vocalizations beyond what one would think could come from their small size. Listen closely, though: the sound of the pickerel frog doesn’t carry far, and must be heard from the water’s edge. Many a curious kid or camper has caught a pickerel frog over the years, but many fewer hear their love song in early spring. For all amphibians and reptiles, spring is a time when the instinctual need to perpetuate the species comes to light. Chorusing frogs and egg-laying turtles are all part of the ritual of spring. An attentive observer can find much to discover and enjoy while looking and listening for the change of the season.

Tin Mountain Conservation Center offers year-round opportunities to experience nature as the ultimate classroom. With over 2,000 acres of land and over 80 yearround nature programs, and summer and winter camps, you can visit Tin Moun tain’s Nature Learning Center in Albany, NH or hike the trails at the Rockwell property in Jackson, NH or Bear Paw Trail in Fryeburg, ME. The Albany location also features many trails and a 1.2-mile accessible nature trail, which welcomes everyone, and is highly recommended.

Additional information and events are available at www.tinmountain.org.

Spring 2025

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BIRDING MWV By Mik Oyler

Birds to Watch in the Valley As a birder, the most common question these days is, sadly, “Where did all the birds in my yard and at my feeders go?” Answer: It’s depressing, but there’s hope.

Birds to Watch in the Valley Pbirder. “How did you get into birds?”

Birds to Watch in the Valley

As a birder, the most common question these days is, sadly, “Where did all the birds in my yard and at my feeders go?” Answer: It’s depressing, but there’s hope.

Pbirder. “How did you get into birds?”

eople have plenty of questions for you when they learn that you’re a Answer: When my uncle showed me a brilliant Scarlet Tanager and told me how it had flown thousands of miles from South America in the spring to nest in our eastern forests, only to fly all the way back in the fall. Or, “I heard a sound like a distant Harley Davidson and then saw this large brown bird puffing itself up and flapping its wings. What the heck was it?” Answer A Ruffed Grouse, drumming! And, of course, “What’s your favorite bird?” Answer: The Northern Shrike, also known as the “butcher bird,” for its practice of impaling prey on thorns or barbed wire. However, the most common question these days is, sadly, “Where did all the birds in my yard and at my feeders go?” Answer: It’s depressing, but there’s hope.

Where did they go? A recent first-ever comprehensive study of net bird population changes in the U.S. and Canada showed staggering declines. The North American bird population is down by 2.9 billion breeding adults. Forests alone have lost one billion birds. Grassland bird populations lost another 720 million birds. And the common birds have suffered the most, with over 90 percent of the losses coming from just 12 families, including the sparrows, black birds, warblers, and finches that many people see in their yards and at their feeders.

What is causing the decline? It’s a constant struggle for survival for birds, who must be wary of natural pred ators and various human-created threats: habitat loss, climate change, pesticides and contaminants, invasive species, collisions (windows), and even outdoor domestic cats.

Citizen/Community Science The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the lon gest-running com munity science bird project in the U.S. and fuels Audubon’s work through out the year. Local Audubon chapters or con servation organiza tions—like Tin Mountain Conservation Cen ter in Albany, NH— organize, gather, and share valuable local data to the national database that has been populated for over 100 years.

Northern Hawk-Owl, spotted in Fryeburg in 2015. Derek and Jeannette Lovitch, Freeport Wild Bird Supply

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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Using the eBird “Explore” function, users can discover the best places for birding nearby, referred to as “Hotspots,” as well as reports, locations, and statistics of specific species in your area, like this map for Red-bellied Woodpecker. Advances in technology have significantly improved interest and access to com munity science projects. Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird website and app al lows volunteers worldwide to submit data about the birds they see at any time and in any location. Millions of observations are recorded monthly and entered into a central database that is used by scientists, land managers, and bird watchers alike.

Advances in technology have significantly improved interest and access to com munity science projects. Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird website and app al lows volunteers worldwide to submit data about the birds they see at any time and in any location. Millions of observations are recorded monthly and entered into a central database that is used by scientists, land managers, and bird watchers alike.

Identification Technology While technology has been helpful in expanding the reporting of sightings, it is actively revolutionizing how begin ner-to-advanced birders identify birds. Most notably, Cornell Lab of Ornitholo gy’s Merlin app offers an intuitive Bird ID Wizard that utilizes a series of questions, including size, color, location, habitat, behavior, etc., to generate potential iden tifications. Additionally, Merlin has an incredible Sound ID program that, when activated, listens to birds near you, and provides real-time suggestions for what species it may be.

The newest technological revelation in birding is the smart feeder. While not yet as widespread and tested, products such as Bird Buddy and Birdfy have been predicted by ornithologists to further expand interest in birds, community sci ence participation, and related conserva tion efforts.

Birds to Watch in 2025 Whether you like to watch birds at your feeder, in your yard, or as you adventure in the White Mountains, there’s plenty to enjoy and be excited by. For example, a common backyard and feeder bird like the Blue Jay is never tiresome to watch, with its supreme intelligence, social nature, the ability to mimic other bird songs, and feathers that only appear blue because they ironically scatter all wave lengths of light—except blue! While not historically common in the Mt. Washington Valley, there are several species that have expanded their range north due to warming temperatures, such as the Red-bellied Woodpecker and Caro

Western Maine & New Hampshire Lakes & Mountains

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Spring 2025

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Chalie Nims photo

What can you do to help? Use native plants that provide seeds, fruits, and buds; support insects like caterpillars that birds eat; offer places for birds to build nests and find cover; and help maintain and recreate food webs and ecological systems that birds depend on. Chalie Nims photo

Freeport Wild Bird Supply Courtesy photo

Chalie Nims photo

Jeannette Lovitch/Freeport Wild Bird Supply

Freeport Wild Bird Supply

LOCAL HISTORICAL RARITIES TOP: Years ago, this Black Vulture (dubbed “DD” by locals) became a somewhat common site at Dunkin’ in Intervale. BOTTOM LEFT: This Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was spotted around the North-South Road in 2010. BOTTOM RIGHT: This Northern Hawk-Owl, spotted in Fryeburg in 2015, is named for its hawk-like appearance and is diurnal, meaning that they hunt primarily during the day.

lina Wren. Seeing them here is not only exciting, but also important to report for ongoing research on the impact of climate change. Even more thrilling is when a bird is sighted outside of its normal migration route or breeding area, and therefore considered a “rarity” or “vagrant.” A recent example occurred in March, 2017, when a Black Vulture (affection ately named “DD”), was observed by many regional birders as it fed from the dumpster at Dunkin’ in Bartlett. Most famous, and even making the Conway Daily Sun, was a Scissor-tailed Flycatch er, normally seen in southern U.S. states, that spent a couple of days feeding on insects along North-South Road in North Conway in May 2010. A final intriguing category of birds is what is referred to as “irruptives,” birds that suddenly appear in large numbers in a specific area, most often seeking their preferred food source. The MWV is a prime destination for many irruptives, including seed-eating finches, such as Evening Grosbeaks, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Pine Siskins, Common Redpolls, and Purple Finch es; fruit and berry eaters such as Cedar and Bohemian Waxwings, Pine Grosbeaks, and American Robins—this past winter’s notable irruption; and rodent-eating raptors such as North ern Goshawks, Snowy Owls, and even Northern Hawk-Owls, like the one seen in Fryeburg, ME in November, 2015.

Don’t be Shy! Whether a first-time or regular visitor or a MWV local, you already know this is a special area for many reasons, includ ing its beautiful landscapes, flora, and fauna. Appreciation of nature, as well as of birds, comes in many forms, so keep exploring and learning! Try out the great local and technological birding resources available. And if you see people looking in a tree or field through binoculars, don’t hesitate to stop and ask what they are looking at … who knows, it may just be the next mega-rarity!

Helpful references: www.tinmountain.org www.nhaudubon.org www.ebird.org www.merlin.allaboutbirds.org

Courtesy photo

Drink shade-grown coffee that aids water and soil conservation, provides habitat for birds, reduces deforestation, improves pollination, and allows birds to feed on the natural pests.

Avoid pesticides that contaminate natural bird food (e.g., owls and hawks eating poi soned rodents), natural bird habitats, and bird reproductive systems.

Make windows safer by using inexpensive decals or translucent dots to reduce the risk of collision deaths and injuries.

Keep cats indoors to reduce what is shock ingly the number-one direct, human-caused threat to birds in the United States— approximately 2.4 billion birds are killed every year by domestic outdoor cats.

Last but not least, participate in citizen/com munity science that enhances regional and global understanding of the distribution, abundance, and movements of bird spe cies, to identify bird species in need of conservation. Scan for more information.

MWVvibe.com / @mwvvibe

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Spring 2025

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WiseguyCreative.com photo

RIDING THE WHITES A QUICK LOOK @ 2025

RIDING THE WHITES
A QUICK LOOK @ 2025
GORHAM
Coös Cycling Club
BETHLEHEM
Bethlehem Trails Association
NORTH CONWAY

RideNoCo • NEMBA

WHITE MOUNTAINS NEMBA Twenty-five years of trails, advocacy, and community WMNEMBA has deep roots in the MWV as the first MTB trail organization established in 2000. Twenty-five years of trails, advocacy, and community have created great trails and lasting partnerships for all mountain bikers in the MWV. With more than 100 miles of trails in WMNEMBA’s care, there’s a lot of maintenance needed to keep all of these trails in great shape. They are grateful for all of the volunteers that make this magic happen. If you are interested in helping out or learning what it takes to keep trails ride-ready, join in for one of the monthly trail days. It’s a great way to meet like-minded folks and get a chance to leave your mark on trails you ride. Trail days begin in May and run through October. The schedule will be posted on WMNEMBA’s website and social chan nels, so stay tuned! Join them, and fellow riders, at the summer social hosted by Cranmore Mountain Resort in July where you can meet WMNEM BA board members and long-time local riders. They will be lead ing rides for all ability levels and socializing post-ride on the deck. Completed in the fall of 2024, the High School Trail con nector is a 1.25 mile section of new trail on the White Mountain National Forest. The new trail was entirely hand built with the help of many volunteers and USFS trail crews. This trail bypasses USFS Fire Road 380, that is currently used to connect the Mar shall Trail system to the rest of the West Side trail system and makes the High School Trail a loop. The White Mountains Fat Tire Fest is a great event that sup ports WMNEMBA. This comprises three days of camping, riding, music, food, and tasty beverages from September 19-21 in the Fields of Attitash. Check out their website for the most current info and registration.

www.wmnembachapter.org www.instagram.com/wmnemba www.facebook.com/wmnemba

RIDE NOCO Primary trail stewards of the Hurricane Zone Ride NoCo, a 501c3 non-profit founded in 2020, aims to promote positive, progressive growth to help make the Mt. Washington Valley an inclusive, sustainable, and thriving mountain bike hub. The organization serves as the primary trail stewards of the Hurricane Zone Network and Half-Day Trail, the Valley’s most advanced downhill-specific trails. The Hurricane Zone is truly a unique trail system, boasting nearly 8,000 feet of vertical descent over 19 miles of trail. These amazing trails are made pos sible by collaborative partnerships with key organizations, such as Upper Saco Valley Land Trust, Town of Conway, The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Forest Service, and Cranmore Mountain Resort. Ride NoCo is excited to kick off the 2025 season with its sig nature volunteer trail days! With no special skills or tools needed, these events are a fun, cost-free way to give back and meet others in the riding community. This season, volunteers have the oppor tunity to continue progress on exciting trail projects, including two new trails, as well as routine maintenance on some of the classics. Trail days are typically followed by a group ride, which is a great opportunity to get to know the network. Stay tuned to their socials and website for this spring’s trail-day schedule! As a volunteer-run organization, it’s no secret that it takes funds to make this happen! Become a member today at ridenoco. org/membership. Both individual and family memberships are available at various levels of support. All membership funds stay right in the Valley and go directly toward new trails, bigger berms, and better community access. In addition, stay tuned for eclectic events and collaborations with some of Ride NoCo’s longtime supporters, such as Saco River Brewing, Sun & Ski Sports, Ride the Whites, and more!

www.ridenoco.org www.ridenoco.org/membership www.facebook.com/ridenoco www.instagram.com/ride_noco

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COÖS CYCLING CLUB All Hands On Deck With over 25 miles of singletrack and machine-built flow, the Coös Trails network is perhaps the best kept secret in White Mountains mountain biking—an outstanding mix of cross-country and gravi ty-fed riding overseen by a small group of members and volunteers dedicated to building new trail, maintaining existing terrain, and introducing new participants to the sport. Supporting the club’s fundraising efforts, the 3rd annual Frost Heave backcountry mountain bike race will be held on May 17th in Jericho Mountain State Park. This unique early-season event is held on a diverse network of trails, with participants experiencing challenging climbs, rugged descents, and excellent views. Short-course (13 miles) and long-course (27 miles) options are available. Register at www.bikereg. com/frostheave. Youth Shred Camp kicks off in June, offering a very affordable full week of mountain bike programming for local youth, ages 10-14, on the Coös Trails. Group Rides are held every Wednesday evening throughout the summer/fall, meeting at Moose Brook State Park in Gorham at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome. For adults new to the sport, check out Saturday morning Chill Rides, a no-pressure way to start your mountain biking journey. Join the email list at www.cooscyclingclub.org or follow on Instagram (@cooscyclingclub) to stay updated. www.cooscyclingclub.org www.facebook.com/coos-cycling-club www.instagram.com/cooscyclingclub

www.cooscyclingclub.org www.facebook.com/coos-cycling-club www.instagram.com/cooscyclingclub

BETHLEHEM TRAILS ASSOCIATION Volunteers are the backbone of this trail network Volunteers are the backbone of this trail network, and their contribu tions are vital to its success. Anyone can volunteer—regardless of age, identity, or skill set. Bethlehem Trails Association welcomes everyone to join the community and contribute in whatever way they can. Volunteering can be as simple as reporting trail conditions, working at fundraising events, or helping out with the Gear Library. The Gear Library is a shed that works just like a traditional library, but instead of books, you can borrow outdoor gear, such as bikes, backpacks, hiking poles, and more. It’s their way of making outdoor activities accessible to everyone in the community. The Gear Library is now located at 2297 Main Street, Bethlehem in the main Bethlehem Elementary School parking lot.

www.bethlehemtrails.org www.facebook.com/bethlehemtrailsassoc www.instagram.com/bethlehemtrails

GREAT GLEN TRAILS Celebrating 25 Years | August 2-3, 2025 Big Day Brewing 24 Hours of Great Glen, the most beloved and iconic mountain bike race in New England, returns again in 2025. This year’s theme is going under the sea for the race, camping, parties, kids events, live music and bash, celebrating the most delicious suds around made by Big Day Brewing. The course itself is a roughly 9-mile loop that winds its way around the carriage roads, doubletrack, bridges, and technical singletrack at the base of Mt. Washington. The course features challenging segments, such as the infamous floating bridge over the Glen Pond. Racers can join in any of the race categories. There are no minimum lap requirements per racer. Ride as many laps as you can in 24 or 12 hours.

www.greatglentrails.com/24-hours www.instagram.com/greatglentrails www.facebook.com/greatglentrails

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THE GEAR DOC of North Conway

Giving Outdoor Gear New Life By Lily Hartman

Giving Outdoor Gear New Life

By Lily Hartman

TSalomon boot. “The Gear Doc”

his past February, a customer en tered The Gear Doc with a broken glanced at the boot, and said he could fix it in just a couple of days. Rich Page, also known as “The Gear Doc” in the local community, is the owner and founder of the gear shop. As a town that is full of outdoor enthusiasts, whether you’re a climber, skier, or hiker, everyone breaks a piece of outdoor equipment eventually. That is where Page comes in handy. Page fixes and sells gear for climbers in the New Hampshire White Mountains do it,” says Clarke. “I feel like it saves peo ple a lot of money around here, and gear’s expensive, so that’s really important.” Page runs The Gear Doc on his own. In the 1970s, he spent summers in Colorado working at sewing factories and climbing rocks in Estes Park with his buddies; he also became part of a rescue team. His passion for climbing led him on several expeditions. He has summited Mount Denali six times and completed over 20 climbing trips to Alaska. On the side, Page enjoyed being a mountain guide and taking people ice climbing. From store: backpacks, hats, and gloves hang from the wall, camping equipment sits on the shelves, and outdoor clothing is located in the middle of the room. There is a sewing machine in the back, candy in a bowl for customers, and music playing from the speaker. Not only does Page fix broken gear, he also sells gear and apparel by Mountain Equipment, a British outdoor clothing brand, and Savage Gear. Clarke, who has climbed all through NH and in AK, has been wearing gear from the shop before she even began working here.

The Gear Doc is tucked away in the village of North Conway, right off Reporter Court. Not only does Rich Page fix broken gear, he also sells gear and apparel by Mountain Equipment, a British outdoor clothing brand, and Savage Gear.

and beyond. Outdoor enthusiasts head to the shop when they need gear fixed, whether a zipper, snowshoe, or some thing else. Whenever customers come into International Mountain Equipment (IME) with a broken piece of gear, anoth er outdoor sports store in town, Autumn Clarke, an employee at both IME and The Gear Doc, sends them to Page. “It’s a great thing to recommend Rich because there’s someone in town who can

1982 to 1988, Page owned his first gear shop, Buzzard, in Estes Park. In 2012, he opened The Gear Doc. “I had been fixing gear, putting exten sions in packs, and doing sewing prior to this factory work,” he says. The shop is tucked away in the village of North Conway, right off Reporter Court. Upon entering the store, customers are greeted by Page with a smile. A variety of climbing gear is scattered throughout the She has worn the Savage Gear Bullseye pack heading up Cannon and Eagle Cliff, saying it’s durable and waterproof, a sun hoody by Mountain Equipment that is comfortable, and a pair of zip pants that fit her perfectly. “I’ve had a lot of problems trying to find insulated, full-zip pants that fit me,” says Clarke. “[Page] tries to specifically target some things that people may not be able to find otherwise.”

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Page creates an inclusive environment with weekly events at the shop. Every Saturday, The Gear Doc hosts a gathering for anyone in the community who likes to climb, where Page does presentations about different trips to help climbers prepare, such as to Denali in Alaska, where he may talk about weather, and mountain medicine, and do a Q&A session. In addition, these gatherings allow climbers to share their ad ventures, what they’ve learned, and how others can prepare. “I enjoy sharing what I know, especially with this Alaska stuff,” says Page. He has become a mentor in the local climb ing community and cares about preparing climbers for their expeditions, no matter how big or small. Clarke says that the majority of things she knows about climbing are from shared knowledge in the community. She got into climbing in her teens, but had a difficult time finding a community of like-minded climbers in the area she grew up in, saying, “It just wasn’t like the community we have up here in Conway.” After starting her job at The Gear Doc and IME, Clarke has had an easier time meeting people with similar interests and getting outside for climbing adventures. Page never wanted to run a big company. Although the shop is small and often hard to spot, it has helped, encour aged, and educated avid climbers in the North Conway area and beyond. “He’s very humble about it, but he makes a huge impact,” says Clarke. Word has gotten out about there being a gear doctor in the area—he saves people money, helps them go on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and sometimes even hands them chili when they walk into the shop. The Gear Doc 25 Reporter Court, North Conway, NH (603) 662-4690

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Shining a Modern Spotlight on a Storied Tradition

The Continuing Legacy of Peter Limmer & Sons Story and photography by Sam Norton

Story and photography by Sam Norton A Storied Reputation

The Continuing Legacy of Peter Limmer & Sons

Story and photography by Sam Norton

Rworkshop, which never fails to fascinate me. Through the air, wafted ecently I paid a visit to Peter Limmer & Sons custom hiking boot shop in Intervale. I opened the shop’s heavy wooden doors and entered their the earthy smell of shoe glue and cowhide. Looking around, my eyes were drawn to the collage of sepia-tinged photographs tacked to the walls, which showed eager Limmer boot-wearers tramping in far reaches of the globe. Behind the sales counter, the shop’s boot-making crew was toiling away at their work benches. The energetic din of their tools created a methodical soundtrack of pounding and grinding. As old-fashioned as the shop ap peared—resembling something of a museum exhibit—Peter Limmer & Sons is very much an active, thriving company. And while the physicality of the shop looks much the same as it has for generations, one thing has recently changed: the ownership of the company passed from long-time owner Peter Limmer to Adam Lane-Olsen in 2021. Adam acquired the business from Peter in 2021 after a six-year apprentice ship. By intention, this development has not altered the company’s appearance or mission. Through my recent visit to the shop, I hoped to glean wisdom about the Limmer company’s 100-plus year history; and to see what its future may hold.

A Storied Reputation

Upon my arrival, Adam eagerly gave me a tour of the shop’s inner workings. Sporting a weathered apron and collared work shirt, he showed me around the low-ceilinged workspace, which felt like a small emporium of boot-related objects. Near the entrance of the shop, a consignment rack held dozens of boots from a wide range of vintage (some nearly new, others from the 1960s). Another rack behind the counter held boots with dangling tags, awaiting repairs—repairability is a defining feature of Limmer. The workshop itself had benches, a sanding machine, and three imposing stitching machines used for threading soles. Also intriguing were the large rolls of fresh cowhide laying on shelves, waiting for processing. As Adam showed me the material interests of the shop, he also spoke to the company’s larger significance as makers of handmade hiking boots. He emphasized that the company has earned its

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Spring 2025

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storied reputation as a result of many years of dedicated craftsmanship. As the current steward of the company’s heritage, Adam expressed gratitude for those who taught him the skills of the trade (namely Peter Limmer). He also praised the skilled labor and dedication of his employees. Pres ently, the shop employs four full-time bootmakers (in ad dition to Adam), including Annie Dumais, Patrick Moody, and Ken Smith—they share in the tasks of building a boot to its completion. When speaking to both Adam and his co-workers, it was clear that they place great value on producing hiking boots that exude the quality and consistency, which has built their reputation. This mentality of dedication pertains beyond the boot, and includes the constellation of human connections which the Limmer community is known for. Although Adam could take the shop in various directions, the future he envisions for the company is largely informed by its past traditions. Nevertheless, since 2021, the Limmer crew has undertaken initiatives that they hope will bring new opportunities to their time-hon ored craft. The Philosophy of Meticulous Craftsmanship

The Philosophy of Meticulous Craftsmanship

Adam spends much of his laboring hours at the shop building custom lasts. Lasts are the wooden molds of a foot that serve as the blueprint for the boot’s construction process. Each last begins as an approximate wooden mold, which is then modified and shaped according to line tracings and measurements taken of a customer’s foot. As Adam demonstrated this process to me, he leaned intently over his work table, looking at a line-trac ing on a paper pad for guidance. Clutching the last with one hand, he used a blade to shave down layers of material glued onto the last, in accordance with the foot tracing. It was an intimate process that brought to mind an artist carving a sculpture. Although it requires a degree of precision, Adam insisted that shaping a custom last is “very much not a scientific” process. Rather, he relies on his knowledge and intuition for how a boot will actually feel on someone’s foot. While the fit of each boot is paramount, the aesthet ics of a Limmer are also important to Adam and his fellow bootmakers: “I want it to be something that’s beautiful, even if their foot may not be,” he said. While they do have an elegant profile, they are primarily rugged tools of the New England backcountry. After Adam completes the last for a custom boot, the time-honored construction process begins. First, the single-piece leather upper—the outer layer of the boot— is die-cut from a sheet of cowhide. Next, the outer and inner layers of leather are molded into their proper shape using the modified wooden last. The structural compo nents of the boot—the heel counter and the toe cap—are then integrated into the layers of leather. Finally, a rubber Vibram sole is affixed to the boot by gluing, stitching, and burnishing. Unlike modern industry, this small-scale production model prioritizes mindful repetition rather than rampant speed. This philosophy of meticulous craftsmanship has been ingrained in the company’s ethos since their conception.

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N o rth C o n w a y , N H th e s o a k in g p o t.c o m New Owner, Same Philosophy

N o rth C o n w a y , N H th e s o a k in g p o t.c o m

New Owner, Same Philosophy

Peter Limmer & Sons was first founded in Vachendorf, Ger many in 1919, by Peter Limmer Sr. After immigrating to the U.S. in 1925, the family business established itself in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, where the shop stayed until 1950. At that point, being drawn to the familiar, rolling landscape of the White Mountains, the company moved to its current location in Intervale. Over the years, ownership of the shop passed from Peter Limmer Sr. onto his sons Peter and Francis; and eventual ly to the Peter Limmer known in Intervale today. While Adam is the first owner of the company not to carry the Limmer name, he is well versed in the family lore—and proud to be a part of its heritage. Photographs and written memorabilia of Limmer family history still decorate the shop, as they have for generations. When asked recently about Adam’s place in the story of Limmer family heritage, Peter saw no discontinuity with Adam’s ownership. He reflected that when he took ownership of Spring 2025

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As Peter Limmer looks on, Adam Lane-Olsen measures New Hampshire Fish & Game Conservation Officer James Benvenuti’s foot to begin the process of creating a custom-made pair of boots. the company in the 1990s, having the Limmer name gave him no divine wisdom—he was simply a steward of the family business. Like Adam today, he faced challenging decisions about how to run the shop and maintain the company’s reputation. Peter also emphasized that close friendship can be nearly as valuable as family. Thinking back on his years working with Adam, he said, “I’ve always considered Adam and I to be twin brothers by different parents.” Since passing the reins, Peter has continued working for the shop part-time. His primary role is die-cutting the boots’ outer leather “uppers,” a particularly skilled part of the process.

Taking the Next Step The Boot Crafters

As Peter Limmer looks on, Adam Lane-Olsen measures New Hampshire Fish & Game Conservation Officer James Benvenuti’s foot to begin the process of creating a custom-made pair of boots.

the company in the 1990s, having the Limmer name gave him no divine wisdom—he was simply a steward of the family business. Like Adam today, he faced challenging decisions about how to run the shop and maintain the company’s reputation. Peter also emphasized that close friendship can be nearly as valuable as family. Thinking back on his years working with Adam, he said, “I’ve always considered Adam and I to be twin brothers by different parents.” Since passing the reins, Peter has continued working for the shop part-time. His primary role is die-cutting the boots’ outer leather “uppers,” a particularly skilled part of the process.

Taking the Next Step

Since taking ownership, Adam has changed very little about the company, or the Limmer boot itself. Nevertheless, he has taken some new initiatives, which he hopes will strengthen their professional standing and bring new customers to their door. In October of 2024, Adam, Annie, and Patrick traveled to New York City to attend a professional conference of leather footwear-mak ers, known as Boot Camp. Located in the heart of the bustling waterfront district of Brooklyn, the conference convened some of the most prestigious bootmakers from across the country. Peter Limmer & Sons is very well established in its trade (after a century of making respected hiking boots), and yet the team felt like underdogs when they arrived at Boot Camp. Historically, “Limmers” have been well known within the New England hiking community, but often not beyond it. Further more, while most of the attending vendors made fashion-orient ed footwear, Limmer boots were unique as practical footwear designed to withstand punishing terrain. For these reasons, they weren’t sure what to expect. In the face of uncertainty, the Limmer crew did their best to import the Intervale shop’s rustic charm to their designated conference space. They set up a wooden workbench, displayed tools of the trade, and lay down saw dust on the floor. As people walked by their diorama, Annie remembered feeling a newfound confidence as they pitched their product to prospective cus tomers. Boot Camp, she said, “was the first time I described our boots to people as tools.” Intrigued, people lined up to have their measurements taken, and to order boots. Adam said that while many attendees had heard of Limmers, it was “a revelation for some folks to actually have our product in their hand and feel the substantialness of it.” Ultimately, they were well received at Boot Camp by fellow proprietors and customers alike. There is a certain irony in the idea that Peter Limmer & Sons was new to the conference, given that the company was estab lished at a time when handmade footwear was the status quo.

The Boot Crafters

To those who craft Limmers, the boot represents something more than merely a commercial product. Whereas much of the clothing industry today is defined by “fast-fashion,” where a product’s expendability is seen as a virtue, Limmer boots amount to something distinctly different. The value of a Limmer comes precisely from its slow-changing and resilient design. Adam and his employees often remind prospective customers of the prac ticality of buying their product, which will long outlive a modern hiking shoe. And beyond the economic value of the boot, they tout the organic relationship between Limmer-makers and their customers, which promotes a tradition of mutual care.

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Limmer Facts years

Alongside Adam Lane-Olsen, Chris Sawyer owns Limmer Boots Inc, which makes authentic Limmer boots through a company in Germany. Peter Limmer & Sons, Inc. was established in 1919, and has been based in Intervale since 1950.

Alongside Adam Lane-Olsen, Chris Sawyer owns Limmer Boots Inc, which makes authentic Limmer boots through a company in Germany.

Peter Limmer & Sons, Inc. was established in 1919, and has been based in Intervale since 1950.

At the same time that Adam bought Peter Limmer & Sons from Peter Limmer in 2021, Karl Limmer also sold Limmer Boots Inc. to Chris Sawyer.

Over the decades, the shop has accumulated a trove of personal letters from customers who have shared their experiences wearing Limmers.

Adam’s son, Monroe Lane-Olsen, has begun working at the shop part time.

Prior to Adam’s traveling, 80% of their clients were New Englanders, and 20% non-New Englanders. Today, that ratio is roughly 50-50%.

Limmers are unique for their single-piece upper leather con struction, which increases their malleability and durability.

The design of a Limmer boot has changed very minimally throughout its history.

Peter Limmer & Sons recently became members of the Shoe Service Institute of America—an organization dedicated to furthering the shoe repair industry.

Unlike most modern hiking boots, Limmers can be resoled numerous times.

While Peter Limmer & Sons may appear new in the world of boutique leather fashion, the company began at a time when handcrafted leather footwear was the standard.

Limmer Boots represent a mindset that rejects the philos ophy behind today’s “fast-fashion” trend.

For the last two years, Limmer-wearers have gathered for Limmer Fest in the summer to celebrate a shared love for the boot.

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Presently, the shop employs four full-time bootmakers (in addition to Adam), including Ken Smith, Annie Dumais, and Patrick Moody—they share in the tasks of building a boot to its completion. Making Connections

Making Connections Peter’s Blessings

Presently, the shop employs four full-time bootmakers (in addition to Adam), including Ken Smith, Annie Dumais, and Patrick Moody—they share in the tasks of building a boot to its completion.

Making Connections

In addition to the attendance at Boot Camp this past fall, Adam has taken other initiatives to connect with prospective custom ers. During several weekends this past autumn, he travelled to the cities of Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, and San Francisco where he met with dozens of clients to take their foot measure ments. Traveling to these hub cities outside of New England allowed more distant customers to have their measurements taken without having to make a difficult trip to New Hampshire. Partly as a result of this outreach trip, the company’s custom boot backlog has expanded significantly to customers from outside the local region. Additionally, for the past two years, the shop has hosted a celebratory boot-themed festival known as Limmer Fest that takes place at Ledge Brewing. Another positive change the shop has undergone is the number of people employed. With the addition of Annie and Pat rick to the boot-making team—who work alongside Ken Smith, hired in 1998—the shop now has four full-time bootmakers. Additionally, Adam’s son Monroe Lane-Olsen has worked parttime. Meghan Moody—who is married to Patrick—was also hired recently as an office manager. More working hands has increased their production capacity, while giving Adam more time to focus on last-building and organizational work. Adam spoke of his gratitude for not just the skilled labor of his employees, but also the unique stories and passions they each bring to work. While there are new faces at Peter Limmer & Sons, and the company has pursued new initiatives, the boot itself has scarcely been altered. Save for a new polyester thread used for stitching, and a less toxic glue used for affixing soles, the modern Limmer is remarkably unchanged from those produced decades ago. Adam has never entertained the possibility of diverging from the boot’s original form and function, given it has succeeded through generations of White Mountain hiking. As the outdoor industry has largely moved away from handmade leather footwear, Adam feels confident that they will still connect with the “large group of people that recognize what [Limmers] are for the quality, the craftsmanship, and the relationship that the client can have with the maker.” It’s ultimately about getting the boots “in front of the right people,” he says.

Peter’s Blessings

I spoke with Peter Limmer on the phone recently to hear his thoughts on the emerging era of Peter Limmer & Sons, as his own involvement changes. He felt quite hopeful about the direction the shop has taken. Reflecting on Adam’s adventurous efforts in Brooklyn and across the country to make new connections, Peter said he was happy to see Adam taking steps that he had been unable to take with a smaller workforce. “He’s got the opportunity to really dig his teeth into the heritage of the business,” he said. With the company moving securely forward, Peter expects to move into a fuller retirement in the coming years. He plans to buy a tow-behind trailer and experience parts of the country he could not see during his working years, including Acadia’s rugged seacoast in Maine. With traveling on his mind, Peter thought back to what he felt on the day he finally passed Adam the keys to the shop: “It was emotional, but it was pride more than anything else.”

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Team MWAC pauses for a photo in front of the Snow Rangers Quarters as they prepare for a busy day in Tuckerman Ravine. Back Row: Rhys Thomas, William Degrush, Josh McCabe, Jeff Fongemie, Marin MacDonald, Charlotte MacDonald, Grace Murdoch, Kaleb Guinn. Front Row: Patrick Scanlan, Monte the fluffy husky, Julia Bowman. 64

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Spring 2025

ASSESSING SPRING RISKS IN TUCKERMAN RAVINE With the Mount Washington Avalanche Center

ASSESSING SPRING RISKS IN TUCKERMAN RAVINE

With the Mount Washington Avalanche Center

By Lily Hartman

Although the risk of avalanches decreases in spring, the hazards from warmer temperatures, more intense sunlight, and snow-to-rain cycles create more dangers than in winter. During spring, there are hundreds (sometimes thousands) of people heading up to the ravine, who are often less experienced than winter adventurers.

May 7, 2023, was like any other spring day in the White Mountains. The sun was beaming down on the slushy snow that lost its hardness and grip after winter, but that didn’t stop the skiers and hikers trekking up Tuckerman Ravine Trail. I climbed alongside my dad, carrying two bulky skis attached to his small backpack. As we made our way past Hermit Lake and into the bowl, a colosseum of people was getting amped up and having fun as they watched several skiers and snowboarders hike up the left side of Tuckerman Ravine, like ants marching in a line. Each put on their board at different points—some only a few steps up on the Left Gully, while others at the top of The Chute, who often hesitated for a few minutes (or longer) before making their way down the steep route, past big boulders, and underneath ice chunks the size of a car. “There’s this amazing amount of pressure from the people in the bottom of the bowl cheering you on and screaming,” says Kate Moynihan, an avalanche forecaster and snow ranger at the Mount Washington Avalanche Center (MWAC). “When someone does have a catastrophic fall, they’re still cheering them on,” she contin ues. “It’s a super bizarre environment.”

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ABOVE: On April 4, 1937, the first giant slolom race in the U.S., the Franklin Edson Memorial Race, was held. Intended to begin at the summit, the race began halfway up Right Gully as two recent surface avalanches hinted to potential trouble on the headwall. Photo by Harold Orne. RIGHT: The Avalanche Center crew pauses in front of the avalanche informational board. From L to R: Patrick Scanlan, Jeff Fongemie, Charlotte MacDonald, Kate Moynihan. HISTORY OF THE RAVINE Tuckerman Ravine is known as the birthplace of extreme skiing, according to Patrick Scanlan, an avalanche fore caster and snow ranger at the MWAC. In the 1930s, people were skiing in this backcountry area before anywhere else in the U.S. For this reason, the ravine has become a legendary location. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) noticed that bility, and just the historic spring atmo sphere at Tuckerman,” says Moynihan.

HISTORY OF THE RAVINE Tuckerman Ravine is known as the birthplace of extreme skiing, according to Patrick Scanlan, an avalanche fore caster and snow ranger at the MWAC. In the 1930s, people were skiing in this backcountry area before anywhere else in the U.S. For this reason, the ravine has become a legendary location. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) noticed that bility, and just the historic spring atmo sphere at Tuckerman,” says Moynihan.

ABOUT THE AVALANCHE CENTER Every year, from December 1 to June 1, the MWAC leads SAR operations in the Cutler River Drainage area of the White Mountains. In partnership with the USFS, it provides expert mountain forecasting, data based on research collaborations, picture, which is another data point used to assess risk. These reports should only be used as a tool, not a gospel. Scanlan says, “We paint the picture of what the hazards are, and it’s up to the user to decide how they are going to use that information to make their decisions.” This past February, we joined the crew into the field to witness how they perform a compression test to assess ava

In 1952, they created a snow ranger program so someone could be up there managing the area and informing the public of potential hazards to prevent accidents. It started as a one-man crew, then became a team, known today as the Mount Washington Avalanche Center. It was the first backcountry avalanche center in the U.S. and the only one east of the Rocky Mountains.

people were getting hurt in the bowl. In 1952, they created a snow ranger program so someone could be up there managing the area and informing the public of potential hazards to prevent accidents. It started as a one-man crew, then became a team, known today as the MWAC. It was the first backcountry avalanche center in the U.S. and the only one east of the Rocky Mountains. “Our avalanche center is one of the more unique ones in the country because of our search and rescue (SAR) responsi and enhanced safety efforts through outreach programs and talking events. The team creates a model of what they think the avalanche risk is by looking at different weather sources and taking field observations, which are rated on a scale from 1 to 5, or low to extreme. Then, they post forecast updates on their website and Avy: Avalanche & Weather Info, their app that was recently released. The crew also collects information from the public, who can submit observations through the app. This could even just be a lanche risk, which was 3 out of 5 that day, or “considerable.” Fresh snow was falling heavily, as Moynihan dug a ditch in the ground and formed a wall of snow—ex posing different layers and the story each layer told about previous snowstorms. We watched as she continuously applied pressure to the snow. After consistent effort, a small avalanche occurred. “Snowfall amount, as well as what density of snow you have, are both im portant for understanding your avalanche conditions,” says Marin MacDonald, the

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Spring 2025

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winter intern for the Mount Washington Observatory (MWOBS) and MWAC. With a background in snow hydrology, Mac Donald’s goal is to look at snow from a safety standpoint and to determine how much water a storm is carrying, and what that means for the amount of snow that may fall in the days ahead. “Mount Washington has some really specific conditions that don’t fit into that framework all the time,” says MacDonald. “A lot of work is just trying to figure out if there is a better system for determining how much snow we have.” It may snow 10 inches in the bowl, but when the wind blows into the ravine, now there’s snow piling, creating a heavy layer Before attempting to ski down Tuckerman Ravine, Fongemie suggests starting small. Hike partway up a smaller slope with a safe runout and see how it feels. If it feels okay, go a little higher the next time. “People need to be quite solid skiers, and they also need to know their limitations,” he adds.

Before attempting to ski down Tuckerman Ravine, Fongemie suggests starting small. Hike partway up a smaller slope with a safe runout and see how it feels. If it feels okay, go a little higher the next time. “People need to be quite solid skiers, and they also need to know their limitations,” he adds.

on a potentially weak snowpack, which can trigger an avalanche. Performing these field observations in advance helps the crew determine the risk for the day.

SPRING RISKS & RESCUES Although the risk of avalanches decreases in spring, the hazards from warmer temperatures, more intense sunlight, and snow-to-rain cycles create more dangers than in winter. During spring, there are hundreds (sometimes thousands) of people heading up to the ravine, who are often less experienced than winter adventurers. According to Jeff Fongemie, director of the MWAC, the area is treated like a ski resort. “It feels like people take more risks here than if they are in a backcountry setting alone,” he says. People follow their peers up the left side of the headwall and don’t realize what they’ve gotten them selves into until they’re standing on top of the ravine itself. Fongemie says that when it comes to the causes of fatalities in the ravine, 20 percent are from avalanches, 20 percent are from hypothermia or exposure, and

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Sometimes, falling pieces of rock and ice can be the size of a golf ball, but at other times, they can be the size of a car or truck, weighing many tons and reaching speeds of over 60 mph. Mount Washington Avalanche Center photo. SPRING MOUNTAIN HAZARDS

SPRING MOUNTAIN HAZARDS

As winter transitions to spring each year, environmental changes, such as warmer temperatures, longer and more intense sunlight, and the shift from snow to rain lead to a shift in the types of mountain hazards seen during the springtime.

Though the threat of avalanches begins to drop off in the spring, these mountain hazards are proven to be just as dangerous and have contributed to hundreds of accidents and near-misses over the years. Having the ability to identify, plan for, and avoid these hazards can greatly reduce your risk when traveling in the mountains.

1. ICEFALL AND ROCKFALL These dangerous ice and rock formations are caused by constant freeze-and-thaw cycles, melting ice, and water runoff from snowmelt. They appear blue or white, vertical in steepness and can be seen or heard as the weather warms up. Wear a helmet and avoid standing underneath ice on steep terrain. “Lunch Rocks” is one of the most dangerous spots in the ravine due to the exposure to these formations. They weigh many tons, can move at 60 miles per hour, and can be the size of a golf ball to a truck.

2. REFROZEN SNOW SURFACE Melt-and-freeze cycles affect snow hardness and can cause hard, icy surfaces that are hazards for anyone heading out to the trails. These surfaces often cause long-sliding falls, so mountaineering equipment and self-arresting skills are critical. Refrozen surfaces appear as hard, shiny snow with minimal boot penetra tion. These surfaces can be predicted by looking at temperatures and areas that go from sunny to shaded.

3. UNDERMINED SNOW When water runoff melts adjacent snow, warm air travels underneath it, which enhances melting and causes snow to collapse. This creates a snow bridge, of ten found near bodies of water, which are Skiers and hikers should access as much information from the MWAC website before heading out, and ensure the plan aligns with the experience level of the group. Always have the avalanche essentials with you (a beacon, shovel, and probe), as well as mountaineering gear (an ice axe, crampons, and helmet), and know how to use them.

40 percent are from long-sliding falls. These falls are common in spring due to the amount of ice on the ground, especially on the steep terrain in the ravine. Other spring risks include icefall and rockfall, which can be the size of a truck; and the weather, which is often underestimated. Moynihan says that you have to be ready for winter, even if it’s May. About 30 years ago, my dad and his buddies were skiing in the ravine. Suddenly, they heard a rumble coming from the headwall. They watched as a chunk of ice the size of a car fell and hit a skier standing in its course. After seeing how much he was bleeding, my dad and his group decided to call it a day. “We have 15 to 25 rescues a year,” says Scanlan. In the ravine, there are more incidents and larger rescue volumes in the spring than at any other time of year. Rescues can take hours to complete. The crew takes time to assess the situation before going on the rescue mission. Some rescues require additional SAR volunteer teams, as well as the Ski Patrol, which is a man-powered group of volunteers that operates from March to May. Each team works together to get people off the mountain safely.

PREPARING FOR A DAY IN THE RAVINE That day in May 2023, I sat on a big boulder and watched my dad and his crew hike up the headwall. One of the skiers, who was in his early 20s, had never skied Tuckerman Ravine before. He followed the group up the wall; climbing the snow steps formed by other boots. He got to the top of the headwall, and I could see his orange ski pants reflecting in the sunlight as he stood in his skis, unable to make a turn for quite some time. Before attempting to ski down Tucker man Ravine, Fongemie suggests starting small. Hike partway up a smaller slope with a safe runout and see how it feels. If it feels okay, go a little higher the next time. “People need to be quite solid skiers, and they also need to know their limita

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unstable. Usually, you can see or hear the running water, which are areas in which you should proceed with caution. 4. WET AVALANCHES When snow can no longer stick to the surface due to free water minimizing snow strength, a wet avalanche oc curs. Rain, warmer temperatures, and sunlight cause these. They move slowly but have a lot of power. Check the ava lanche forecast and be aware of melting snow to assess if a wet avalanche is likely to occur.

unstable. Usually, you can see or hear the running water, which are areas in which you should proceed with caution.

4. WET AVALANCHES When snow can no longer stick to the surface due to free water minimizing snow strength, a wet avalanche oc curs. Rain, warmer temperatures, and sunlight cause these. They move slowly but have a lot of power. Check the ava lanche forecast and be aware of melting snow to assess if a wet avalanche is likely to occur.

5. GLIDE CRACKS/SNOW HOLES As warm temperatures, rain, and water runoff continuously melt snow during spring, it is common for large and deep holes and cracks to form in the snowpack. These cracks and holes are created in the snowpack from warm temperatures, and the runoff of rain and water. Hikers and skiers can easily fall into these deep, large openings. They are often found next to or underneath rock buttresses and boulders where water gathers and melts snow. They appear as horizontal lines in a snowpack. Avoid these areas and proceed with caution, because fresh snow can cover them.

Joe klementovich photo
Spring 2025
Mount Washington Avalanche Center photo

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EDUCATIONAL FILM PROJECT FUNDRAISER The Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foun dation is raising money to create a film to raise awareness about the dangers of backcountry skiing on Mount Washington. By highlighting the real risks and emphasizing the importance of preparation and respect for the mountains, MWACF aims to equip skiers with the knowledge to make safer decisions in the backcountry. By supporting this project, contributors are not just helping to make this film a reality—they’re taking a stand for the safety and education of every skier who ventures into the backcountry. Let’s honor the lives affected by these tragedies by empowering others with the knowledge to avoid them. The MWACF’s goal is to raise $50,000.

By supporting this project, contributors are not just helping to make this film a reality—they’re taking a stand for the safety and education of every skier who ventures into the backcountry. Let’s honor the lives affected by these tragedies by empowering others with the knowledge to avoid them. The MWACF’s goal is to raise $50,000.

Donate to the project by scanning, or visit www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org/ stop-the-slide-project.

Mount Washington Valley Ski Patrol photo

ABOVE: THE MOUNT WASHINGTON VALLEY SKI PATROL (MWVSP) assists the USFS and MWAC during March to May weekends with education, first aid, and search and rescue for skiers and hikers in and around the ravine. They are a small group of volunteers who operate in northern New England avalanche areas. Learn more about them at www.tuckerman.org.

Fongemie says that when it comes to the causes of fatalities in the ravine, 20 percent are from avalanches, 20 percent are from hypothermia or exposure, and 40 percent are from long-sliding falls. These falls are common in spring due to the amount of ice on the ground, especially on the steep terrain in the ravine.

tions,” he adds. Skiers and hikers should access as much information from the MWAC reports before heading out, and ensure the plan aligns with the experience level of the group. Always have the avalanche essentials with you (a beacon, shovel, and probe), as well as mountaineering gear (an ice axe, crampons, and helmet), and the 10 essentials. It’s important to know how to use all of these items.

COMMUNITY REACH & IMPACT “We want to effectively reach the spring user group—that is one of our biggest goals in the center—along with flattening the curve of accidents that are happening in the springtime,” says Scanlan. On a sunny day in Tuckerman Ravine, you’ll see people hiking up in shorts be fore gearing up for the headwall, groups of friends laughing, and dads making their way up the trail with the weight of their son’s or daughter’s skis weighing on their pack. Sometimes, there are days when the snow is soft and forgiving, and few hazards are present, but those days are rare. “People just want to go out and have fun, and have a great day, and sometimes they don’t come home,” says Scanlan. “That’s heartbreaking.”

Mount Washington Avalanche Center: www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org

AMC Visitor Information Center: (603) 466-2721 Androscoggin Ranger Station: (603) 466-2713 Email a snow ranger: [email protected] (Emails may take time to respond to, so call the Ranger Station noted above for immediate needs.)

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Spring 2025

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Digital Preservation of Our Past, Atop Mount Washington

By Peter Crane with Karen MacDonald The Mount Washington Observatory has the privilege of maintaining the Gladys Brooks Memorial Library, which includes books, archival material, and museum artifacts, with a principal subject focus of Mount Washington and the White Mountains. Presented here are a few of the images that have been digitized.

By Peter Crane with Karen MacDonald

The Mount Washington Observatory has the privilege of maintaining the Gladys Brooks Memorial Library, which includes books, archival material, and museum artifacts, with a principal subject focus of Mount Washington and the White Mountains. Presented here are a few of the images that have been digitized.

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The Tip-Top House was a hotel built on the summit of Mount Washington in 1853, and remains today. It was well known enough back then to even inspire its own brand of coffee. 75

The Tip-Top House was a hotel built on the summit of Mount Washington in 1853, and remains today. It was well known enough back then to even inspire its own brand of coffee.

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TMemorial Library, which includes books, archi he Mount Washington Observatory has the privilege of maintaining the Gladys Brooks val material, and museum artifacts, with a principal subject focus of Mount Washington and the White Mountains. The collection includes books, guide books, maps, engravings, stereoviews, postcards, photos, motion pictures, and many other materi als—some historical, some scientific. Included are the institutional archives of the Observatory, includ ing some materials dating to the Observatory’s 19th century forebears, the 1870-1871 Hitchcock-Hun tington Expedition and the soldier-observers of the U.S. Army Signal Service. The library is located at the Observatory’s Valley Office in North Conway village, and is accessible to the public. Looking for original Mount Washington weather records from the late 1800s? You’ll find some here, in the handwriting of early U.S. Army Signal Ser vice soldiers. The original logbook in which summit weather observer Salvatore Pagliuca recorded the fateful events of April 12, 1934, the day on which a world-record wind of 231 miles per hour blew over Mount Washington is here, too. Personal books and papers of Joe Dodge, who helped establish the Ob servatory in 1932, are also on the library’s shelves. A special feature of the collection comprises of pho tos, negatives, and other materials from renowned White Mountains photographer Guy Shorey, who flourished in the first half of the 20th century. The Observatory recently initiated a pilot digitiza tion project, funded, in part, through the generosity of the Henney Historical Fund. This project focuses on some of the most iconic items in the Observatory’s collection, with a goal to make many images available to the public via the internet. Providing such expand ed access will assist historical researchers and will accommodate those with an interest in the area for personal enrichment. Having the materials digitized will also spare the original, sometimes fragile, items from unnecessary wear and tear. Presented within are a few of the images that have been digitized. These images illustrate the long and colorful history of Mount Washington, and help chronicle the fascinating stories of human endeavor on the mountain, the loftiest peak in the Northeast ern United States. We consider not just the Obser vatory and its predecessors, but other activities that have a rich heritage on the mountain, such as the Mt. Washington Auto Road, The Mount Washing ton Cog Railway, and various summit buildings that have come and gone over the years. Many of the ear liest photographic images of the summit are from stereoviews, which were very popular in the last half of the 19th century. Placed in a simple viewer, the stereoviews allowed the two similar photos to be combined into a 3D image. 76

In 1861, the Carriage Road from The Glen was completed, allowing horse-drawn carriages to reach the summit. It later became the Mt. Washington Auto Road.

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The simple wooden shack that housed soldiers of the U.S. Army Signal Station, 1874-1890. Discover the history and art of the Mt. Washington Valley and the White Mountains–the way that your great-grandparents would have seen them.

The simple wooden shack that housed soldiers of the U.S. Army Signal Station, 1874-1890.

Discover the history and art of the Mt. Washington Valley and the White Mountains–the way that your great-grandparents would have seen them.

A curated collection of over 80 fine oil paintings from the White Mountain School of Art, from the 1800s.

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A sheet of weather data compiled by soldiers of the U.S. Army Signal Station, November 1871.

Spring 2025 [email protected] (207) 697-2277 • Fish St., Fryeburg, ME www.FishStreetDesign.com

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There was once a very different Observatory atop Mount Washington, a tower for surveying that stood from 1880 to 1902. The Mount Washington Summit Road Company generously allowed the Observatory to use the Summit Stage Office for its home from 1932 to 1937.

There was once a very different Observatory atop Mount Washington, a tower for surveying that stood from 1880 to 1902.

The Mount Washington Summit Road Company generously allowed the Observatory to use the Summit Stage Office for its home from 1932 to 1937.

In 1937, The Mount Washington Cog Railway built a special structure for the Observatory’s use. Some called it the strongest wooden building on Earth! Its stand-alone instrument tower was replaced by an attached tower in 1941.

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The first Summit House, 1852-1885. This simple hotel was the first building of substance on the summit. The second Summit House, a stately hotel, was opened in 1874 and burned in 1908.

The first Summit House, 1852-1885. This simple hotel was the first building of substance on the summit.

The second Summit House, a stately hotel, was opened in 1874 and burned in 1908.

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The third and final Summit House hotel was opened in 1915, and taken down in 1980.

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This data sheet included the record-low temperature of -46.5 degrees F experi enced on Mount Washing ton on January 29, 1934. This Observatory logbook features Sal Pagliuca’s first-hand account of clocking the world-record wind on April 12, 1934.

This data sheet included the record-low temperature of -46.5 degrees F experi enced on Mount Washing ton on January 29, 1934.

This Observatory logbook features Sal Pagliuca’s first-hand account of clocking the world-record wind on April 12, 1934.

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2025 Guy Shorey loaned a camera to 1932-1933 summit weather observer Bob Monahan, who took photos that would later be featured on postcards.

Guy Shorey loaned a camera to 1932-1933 summit weather observer Bob Monahan, who took photos that would later be featured on postcards.

Among the Clouds was a summer newspaper published on Mount Washington from 1877 to 1917. This special issue told the sad tale of the 1908 summit fire.

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These images are just a tiny selection from the Observatory’s extensive library and archive. The Guy Shorey collection alone comprises more than 9,000 photos and negatives! The Observatory staff and volunteers will continue to preserve illustrative material and documents in a digital format, to make this import ant Mount Washington material more readily available to researchers and to the general public, and to help safeguard the sometimes century-old source material. Interested in learning more? Get in touch—a mountain of historical material awaits! Mount Washington Observatory is a nonprofit institution with a mission to advance understand ing of the natural systems that create Earth’s weather and climate. It serves this mission by maintaining a weather station on the summit of Mount Wash ington, performing weather and climate research, conducting innovative science education programs, and interpreting the heritage of the Mount Washington region. Get additional information at www.mountwashington.org. The number of overnight visitors to the Summit House required that the Cog Railway have a baggage car for the guests’ steamer trunks. Right: Brochures, tickets, and business cards of the Cog Railway are a small but significant part of the Observatory’s collections.

The number of overnight visitors to the Summit House required that the Cog Railway have a baggage car for the guests’ steamer trunks. Right: Brochures, tickets, and business cards of the Cog Railway are a small but significant part of the Observatory’s collections.

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FREQUENT DEPARTURES DAILY, all year longFREQUENT DEPARTURES DAILY, all year longSpring 2025 83

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