Tuftonboro Times Spring 2017 - Tuftonboro NH

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Although business was very light, he always .... held at Copp's Hall [A building which no longer exists .... road closur
Vol XIX, No 2

A Quarterly Newsletter Published by the Tuftonboro Association

Spring 2017

Lloyd Wood elected as chairman, Board of Selectmen On March 15th, the Tuftonboro Board of Selectmen welcomed new member Chip Albee to the board. Chip is a long-time resident of Center Tuftonboro and has previously served as a Selectman and a County Commissioner. The Board looks forward to the experience and insight he brings to the table. At the board’s organizational meeting, Selectman Lloyd Wood was elected Chairman. He will continue to serve as representative to the Conservation Commission, the Mirror Lake Watershed Committee and the Lakes Region Technical Advisory Committee. Bill Marcussen will continue as the Selectmen’s representative to the Planning Board, CIP Committee, Milfoil Control Committee, Energy Committee, Old Home Days Committee and Joint Loss Management Committee. Chip Albee will be the new representative to the Agricultural Commission, Budget Committee and Parks & Recreation Commission The Board continues to explore opportunities to improve services and increase value for town residents and property owners. It has partnered with the Lakes

Region Planning Commission (LRPC) for Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Disposal. Under this new arrangement, everyone in town will be able to dispose of waste at no direct cost to themselves by visiting a participating drop-off location on scheduled summer dates. LRPC will also be conducting an inventory of culverts and drains on all town roads. When completed later this year, the inventory will be a valuable maintenance planning tool and allow for evaluation of drainage improvement possibilities. Benchmarking and cooperative arrangements can also identify improvement opportunities. The Transfer Station participates in the Lakes Region Solid Waste Roundtable and is currently completing a full cost analysis of solid waste disposal. Also, Selectman Wood represents the Board on the Regional Select Board Roundtable. This group is currently exploring pooled purchasing of commodities and the potential for shared services. Town Elections were held during the worst winter storm since 1998. In spite of heavy snow

The Parks and Rec commission has been planning for a busy spring and summer. The ever-popular Easter egg hunt will be held Saturday, April 15th at 1:00 p.m. at Davis Memorial Field, 205 Middle Road. Please bring a non-perishable food item for End 68 Hours of Hunger. Check-in begins at 12:30 p.m. Please dress appropriately for the weather. The event takes place rain or shine, and bring your Easter Basket. A town-wide yard sale will be held on Saturday, June 3rd, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Registration forms will be available at the Town Offices and at www.tuftonboro.org by mid-May. To be shown on the map, please return the forms to the town office by May 26th. The town-wide yard sale will be held rain or shine, although some locations may not be able to participate during inclement weather. Maps will be available at the Tuftonboro Town Offices & Tuftonboro Free Library, online at www.

tuftonboro.org and at the individual yard sale sites. Happy Hunting! In a cooperative effort between the Conservation Commission, Spider Web Gardens and Parks and Rec., a Full Moon Walk will be held on June 9th, starting at Spider Web Gardens. The walk will be led by Conservation Commission Chair Steve Wingate. Check Tuftonboro.org for more info. Swim Lessons/Team Registration forms will be available at the Town Offices, and on www. tuftonboro.org, by the first week of May. Forms will also be sent home with the students at Tuftonboro Central School. Half-day lessons are Monday through Thursday during the month of July. Swim Team meets Monday –Thursday for 1 hour. Swim meets (dates to be determined) are usually on Fridays. Swim team runs through July. The Kick Off Summer event is Saturday, June 24th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the 19 Mile Bay Continued on page 8

and strong winds, turnout at the polls was typical for town elections. Town Meeting was held as scheduled the following evening. Carolyn Sundquist was recognized and thanked for her nine years of service on the Board. The meeting was cordial and respectful. The Board now has a number of significant projects to initiate and manage going forward. The blizzard caused the blockage of numerous roads with downed trees and utility lines. Many areas of town lost power with some outages lasting several days. Heartfelt thanks to the Tuftonboro Police and Fire & Rescue departments. They worked tirelessly for long hours to respond to emergencies and help residents deal with the challenges presented by the storm and outages. The Board thanks all who assisted in making this past year a successful one. Tuftonboro Board of Selectmen Lloyd Wood, Chairman Bill Marcussen Chip Albee

Parks & Rec to hold Summer Concert Series at pavilion

Bravery and quick thinking save the day at Turner Point

One day when I was a young lad at home in the 1950s, some older boys hid something in the hedge that surrounded our house in Wakefield, MA. I heard them say they didn’t want to be caught with it and would be back to pick it up some night when it was dark. They didn’t realize that I was quietly playing on the other side of the hedge. As soon as they left I retrieved it. Wow, it looked like a real gun. A real WW I, military rifle, but it had “Dummy Training Rifle” stamped on the butt -- the kind of thing you might see in a color guard for a Drum and Bugle Corps. It was really cool to play with although I often had to prove it wasn’t real. After several inquiries from the neighbors my parents decided that it should accompany us to the cottage at Winter Harbor and stay there. For many years my younger brother Jeff aspired to be in the bait business. Although business was very light, he always worked hard keeping up his inventory of crawfish, worms, and minnows in case a needy fisherman should drift by and notice his sign attached to a tree on the shoreline. The sign was only about 7 by 24 inches. While he had plans for making millions, he actually consumed much of the bait himself. He was (and still is) a very successful fisherman. In 1960 my older sister Jennifer was graduating from high school. She asked our parents if she could have a “girls only” week with her girlfriends at the family cottage on Winter Harbor. After a good deal of debate they reluctantly said “yes.” At the time, she was transitioning into a militant woman. Men were responsible for all the bad things that were happening in the world, and “wouldn’t it be a better place if women were in charge?” Unfortunately, I was always

The major players in the adventure at Turner Point the nearest male representative and had to endure endless lectures on “what was wrong with men.” Our parents took the girls to the cottage and made sure they had everything they needed for the week. Dad turned on the electricity and hooked up the water. Mom helped unpack the food and reviewed the menu. They both provided much advice including a long list of things not to do which included no contact with boys. The week was going well for the girls, and, then, toward the end, it happened. One morning they looked out front and a boatload of scruffy looking men pulled into the dock and tied up. They all got out of the boat and one of them started walking toward the cottage. The girls could tell these men were up to no good and then a moment of panic arose inside. Why

would a bunch of unshaven, poorly-dressed men be approaching a cabin full of young, vulnerable, teenage girls? Well there could be only one explanation. This was a horror story about to unfold at Turner Point on Winter Harbor. My sister, being the one responsible, realized that it was up to her to save the girls. She went to the closet and retrieved my “Dummy Training Rifle” and stepped out on the porch. She operated the authentic looking bolt action, “clack, clack, click,” and took a stance facing the intruders. The scruffy looking man stopped in his tracks, put his hands up and said, “Please lady, don’t shoot! We only stopped to buy bait.” We still have the bait sign and the “Dummy Training Rifle.” Steve Wingate

Historical Society workday and picnic lunch is May 18th

The Tuftonboro Historical Society will open its museum for the months of July and August, but there are other things on the society’s agenda this May and June. May 18th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is the annual work day. Volunteers are welcome to help with airing out the linens, vacuuming, setting up displays, etc., and sharing a picnic lunch. May 20th from 8:30 a.m. to noon is our first Market Day at the barn for 2017. (The second one will be on June 17th.) Tables can be rented for $10 to sell your wares – antiques, crafts, housewares, or whatever. Plus, there will be a bake sale and coffee. Contact Sue Weeks at (603) 520-0395 for more information. On Wed. May 24th at 6 p.m. the Historical Society will host a pot luck supper at Willing Workers Hall in Melvin Village to go along with a guest speaker from the NH Farm Museum in Milton.

In September, the Society will travel as a group to the NH Farm Museum for a day tour. Contact Jackie Rollins at (603) 496-8212 for more info on this event. In early June of this year, the third-grade students from the Tuftonboro Central School will come to the Historical Society museum for a tour, and leave with an assignment to write about their visit. On June 28th at 7 p.m., the third-graders return to the museum to receive recognition for their essays and drawings. The society will treat them to dessert and a “pound auction.” Members bring gift-wrapped items weighing a pound which are then “auctioned.” Students really enjoy being actively involved in the auction. The Tuftonboro Historical Society is a private, non-profit corporation run entirely by unpaid volunteers and funded by membership dues and donations. Admission is free and the public is always welcome. Susan H. Weeks

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The Tuftonboro Times,

the Voice of the Community, is published quarterly by the Tuftonboro Association

Editor: Dan Barnard Production: Phil Martin e-mail: [email protected] www.facebook.com/tuftonboroassociation Printed by Lilac Printing and Graphics Rochester, NH

History of the Tuftonboro Grange #142 by Reg Amazeen Editor’s Note: The Tuftonboro Grange #142 has been active in the local community for more than 127 years. Among its dedicated members was the late Reginald Amazeen, who many remember as the Principal at the Tuftonboro Central School. He researched and wrote a history of the local Grange which is reproduced in this issue, courtesy of Joy EH Perkins, who also updated the document. The first meeting of the Tuftonboro Grange was held at Copp’s Hall [A building which no longer exists, located on Middle Road or Federal Corner Road, near the present Grange Hall.] on November 15, 1889, for the purpose of organizing a Grange in Tuftonboro, NH. Petitioning for a Grange as Charter members were twenty men and six women. On December 21, 1889, the following Officers were elected; Master Robert P Lamprey, Secretary Nettie Piper, and Lecturer James a Bennett. A public installation was held January 17, 1890, at Copp’s Hall. New members were added at every meeting until there were 100 members in 1898. The early programs were devoted to discussions of rural life such as seeds, fertilizers, chicken feed, farm research, conservation and forestry, as well as National and State news and the parcel post tariff. Since it was difficult to serve suppers in Copp’s Hall, the Grange Hall Association was formed on November 13, 1897. Sixty subscriptions/shares were sold at $10.00 each, and an additional thirty shares were sold in 1898. Money was borrowed and the present Grange Hall was built just two lots up from where Copp’s Hall stood. Most of the labor and materials were donated. The first meeting in the new Hall was held on October 25, 1899. The mortgage was paid in full before the Grange’s 25th anniversary. Beginning in October 1915, and continuing annually until 1939, the Grange held agricultural community fairs. These fairs were held at various times after 1939, but not with great regularity. These fairs brought people from far and wide to attend and

Ladies of Grange #142, toiling in the kitchen: (left to right) Martha Peterson, Virginia Janik, Joy Perkins, Ann Pike, and Florence Perkins

compete for various prizes as the best grown produce, crops, and animals. It was a great time for all to socialize and renew friendships. In 1918, the Grange Hall was used as a place for the Red Cross volunteers to meet. In 1918 and 1919, the winter meetings were suspended due to Wflu epidemics that had spread throughout the local communities. During the 1920s and 1930s the meetings averaged an attendance of 20 members. In 1927, the Hall was wired for electricity at a cost of $139.00 (The money was earnWed by the fair committee). During the 1930s the local grade schools of Tuftonboro held their annual 8th grade graduation ceremonies on the stage of the main hall. Today several young lovers’ initials can be seen etched into the hallway’s woodwork. During World War II, six brothers and one sister were called into active service. When Brother Loring Roblee died, a gold star was placed on our flag. On March 7, 1947, Edwin B Edgerly was presented his Golden Sheaf Certificate for fifty years of continuous active service in the Grange. Mr. Edgerly joined the Grange on February 17, 1897. In 1948, a class of seventeen candidates took the four Subordinate Degrees with an average of eighty members attending the meetings. The Grange members held whist parties, dances, bake sales, and public dinners to raise funds to make necessary repairs and improvements to the Grange Hall. During the 1950s, various ways of earning money were tried. Auctions after the meetings became the thing to do, and many white elephant items made the rounds of different houses, sometimes returning to the point of origin. In 1958, the members (by then baldly dwindled in numbers) started having bingo parties with only the faithful few participating. For many years, the Hall housed the local library until the new Tuftonboro Library was built. It was also possible to rent the Hall for wedding receptions and other functions. In the mid-1970s, the Tuftonboro Grange was fortunate to have a very active youth group, consisting of teenagers under the guidance of Reg Amazeen, and later, Betty Hersey. The young people worked very hard with car washes, dinners, bake sales, etc. and raised a good sum of money. The youth group gifted to the Grange the Grange Flag and new sashes and regalia. They also managed to have a fun night on the balance of funds they had earned. Also in the mid-1970s, Berenice Williams was honored with a surprise evening in recognition of her twenty-five years of devoted service as the Grange Secretary. Berenice thought it was a Neighbors Night with State Officers and other local Granges in attendance! In the late-1970s, Grange members started the “Just about Everything” shop which was open Saturdays,

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The present home of Tuftonboro Grange #142, located on Middle Road in Center Tuftonboro 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. during July and August. The shop selling “anything” usually earned a few hundred dollars which were earmarked for building improvements. With the shop and periodic rummage sales, public dinners, and fun nights, the members brought in quite a bit of cash over the years. This money made it possible to repair the roof and paint the building; the entranceway floor was refinished, and a new heating system was installed. All of this now needs to be done again. Other projects pending at that time were chimney repair, electrical work and foundation work. In recent years, the chimney has been repaired and repointed, and the wiring has been updated. The Grange building also has seen the installation of heat and smoke detectors. During the 1980s, the Grange continued its agricultural programs and sponsored the Tuftonboro Variety 4H Club. In September 1986, Grange members voted to change the by-laws so that they could meet only once a month on the 2nd Friday, instead of the 1st and 3rd Fridays. In November 1987, the Grange members voted to discontinue exchanges of Christmas gifts and instead to donate to L.I.F.E. Ministries. Tuftonboro Grange celebrated its 100th Anniversary in December 1989 during a snow storm in which 50 members and guests braved the weather to participate in the celebration. State Master Philip Estes brought a letter of greetings from the National Master and presented a plaque to the Grange honoring its 100 years of service. State Representative Howard N. Saunders also read a proclamation from Governor Judd Gregg praising the Grange’s many achievements, contributions, and dedication to the state and community during the past 100 years. Officer Irene Englund was presented Tuftonboro’s first Grange Citizenship Award for her outstanding service to the community in November 1986. Since then many other outstanding community citizens have Continued on page 8

Police Chief reports on Winter Storm Stella, new gun law Although the calendar says it is spring, the weather says winter. As I write this we are expecting another major storm on April Fool’s Day. Winter Storm Stella struck on Election Day. It kept first responders extremely busy due to the snow and strong winds. It is hard to say how much snow fell, but many trees came down blocking many roads and causing utility outages. During the storm police on duty were tasked with assisting election workers in their efforts to get home after counting votes. We also helped with road closures. After the storm, the department continued to assist with road closures and checked with many people who had lost power. An officer had to deliver the Governor Wentworth Regional School District ballots to the SAU office in Wolfeboro. The most serious medical event occurred when one person was transported to the hospital for hypothermia. The Town’s supply of road closure signs was not enough for all the roads that were closed, but Tuftonboro was able to borrow a message sign from Moultonborough for use on Sodom Road. We had a few accidents, including one involving a plow truck. During the effort to restore power on Route 109 in Melvin Village, a large spool of copper wire was stolen from the work site near Craigue Way. Phone service at the Town Offices was lost

because the generator did not start. The Police Department had to rely on radio cell service, which can also be problematic in this area. The lack of internet access at the station was also an issue as it limited our ability to write reports and communicate road closures through the department’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/tuftonboropolice.) We worked with the Fire Department, State and Town Highway Departments, the utility companies and others to get the roads open and keep the public safe. There were also very nice letters to the paper for the efforts all of involved. A big “thank you” should go out to Camp Sentinel for providing shelter to those who needed it. The department received a nice “thank you” from a resident on Carillon Shores for helping them and others on that road, particularly a person with health concerns. Since the last report, State lawmakers have passed a law making the pistol/revolver license optional. That means an individual can carry a firearm, loaded and concealed, without a license. The law also says a license is not required to carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle. The wording of that law conflicts with other laws that ban loaded firearms on some vehicles, such as off highway recreational vehicles (OHRV) and snowmobiles. It also conflicts with the law on

Hopefully by the time you are reading this, spring has sprung and bug season has begun. The winter has been busy for the Fire & Rescue Department. March came in like a lamb and in mid-month roared like a dragon. The area hasn’t seen a winter storm with such sustained high winds in recent memory. There was extensive damage to power lines, homes and land areas where trees toppled over. The cleanup from the storm will last well into summer. Remarkably, no one was seriously injured during or after the storm, and the line crews did an incredible job restoring the power back to the area. If you had seen the damage to the transmission lines in Melvin Village right after the storm you would have thought it would take weeks to repair. But the lines were repaired and power restored in just a few days. “Thank you” to all the line crews for your hard work. The Fire Department responded to 39 calls in 14 hours during the height of the storm. Needless to say, there was a lot going on. I would like to also thank Camp Sentinel for opening their Lodge to folks who needed to get to a place with heat and power after the storm. It is nice to see that everyone can work together to help each other in a time of need. As a reminder, if you must travel during a storm and you see cones, signs, ribbons or wires across the road please don’t just drive over or

under them. They are there for a reason. Just go the long way around. Power lines can be still be energized while lying in the ground or wrapped in tree limbs. And they can kill you. Also by driving over wires you can damage them further delaying the process for folks to get their power/telephone/cable back on. Also, safety crews and line crews are working diligently to clear the damage as safely as possible. Folks who venture up closed roads only slow the process. The department was called to assist mutual aid with its airboat for four separate incidents involving eight individuals that had gone through the ice. The ice on the lake this year was very unpredictable due to the weather. Always use sound judgement when venturing onto any ice. Just because the ice was safe when you went out doesn’t mean it won’t change when you are coming back. NH Fish and Game has some important information on ice safety on their website. Now that the lake is thawed, people are out boating. Please wear a PFD (personal floatation device) at all times, regardless of whether or not you can swim. The lake temperature is still very cold, and you will have only minutes to survive if you go overboard unexpectedly. A PFD might also save your life if you hit your head on the way out. With spring, the outside fire season has begun. Please use caution if you choose to kindle an outside

carrying loaded rifles and shotguns in vehicles. We are awaiting direction from the Attorney General’s office on how to address these conflicting laws. The criteria for the obtaining a firearms license has also changed. Licenses now must be issued to minors and others that previously would not have been qualified. It means that the law can now only prohibit some felons, and individuals with restraining orders, from carrying a loaded, concealed firearm. Recently the State has decided to emphasize that accident reports can only be released through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is not the result of a recent change in the laws. There was a memorandum of understanding (MOU) saying we could give them to the people involved in the accident. They are now saying that MOU was superseded about four years ago. The Department of Safety is working on clarifying the issues this change has brought about. For example, there are minor accidents that are not reportable to the DMV, however they contain the same private information we are not allowed to share with anyone. It could mean we cannot tell a person who damaged their property in a minor accident. Think spring. Chief Andy Shagoury Tuftonboro Police Department

Fire and Rescue Department praises Camp Sentinel action

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Ralph Bussiere, with his wife, Donna, recognized for over fifty years of community service (Photo credit Kyle Williams) fire. With all the dry grass and leaves left over from the winter, a fire can spread out of control very quickly. You must obtain a written fire permit before kindling an outside fire even if it’s raining. If you have questions on the status of the fire danger, please call the station at 569-3381 or Dispatch at 539- 2262 for more information. Although it’s a rare occurrence, an outside fire ban can occur. This is a result of dry conditions and high winds and can change from day to day, and even from town to town. The threat of fast moving outside fires diminishes once the grass greens Continued on page 8

Thirteenth annual town cleanup scheduled for April 22 Each spring, for the past twelve years, a significant number of volunteers from our community have done a wonderful job cleaning up our roads. This activity is coordinated by the Tuftonboro Association and supported by the Tuftonboro Board of Selectmen. This year we are planning to have the cleanup on Saturday, April 22nd which coincides with Earth Day. By then, we should be able to discover all the “goodies” that careless people have left for us. We will work from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., although the section of road which you choose may take less than four hours to complete. We will meet at the parking

lot of the Town Office where safety vests, for those who desire to use them, as well as trash bags will be available. This year we are asking that the filled bags of trash be taken directly to the Transfer Station. Those who find this inconvenient may bring the bags back to the Town Office parking lot. Last year we were particularly pleased with the participation of individuals and families. This year we are encouraging participation by all who value the natural beauty of the wonderful community in which we live.

An opportunity to adopt a specified portion of one of our roads will be given to individuals and groups. We hope that this commitment will be maintained throughout the year. We are also hopeful that all interested individuals will join us in educating the public about the effect of littering on our society. Sign-up Sheets are available in the lobby of the Tuftonboro Town Offices. For those who took their vests home last year please remember to bring them with you. If you have any questions you may call Lee White at 544-3236. Lee White, Tuftonboro Association

The Tuftonboro Agricultural Commission (TAC) has set its standard meeting time as the first Tuesday of the month at 9:00 AM in the Selectmen’s room in the Town Offices. All are welcome. Please check the TAC webpage (http://www.tuftonboro.org/agriculturalcommission) for minutes of past meetings, agendas for upcoming meetings, and links for information and articles that may be of interest. TAC is working to finalize their Vision/Mission Statement in preparation for working on TAC input to the updated draft Master Plan. There is no Agriculture section in the current Master Plan. If you have something you would like to see included in this section of the Master Plan, please contact one of the commission members as soon as possible. Do you own some forested land, and do you have an idea of how you would like to manage that

land - for wildlife, timber production, tree farming, etc.? If so, TAC is in the process of planning a Forest Management Workshop to be held on a Saturday, June 3rd. The program will be presented by Wendy Scribner, UNH Extension Forester for Carroll County. The purpose of the workshop is to provide information on the tools available to help you develop a plan for managing your land to achieve the goals you have for the future. A morning session will be held at the Town House, and the afternoon session will be held in the field. The program will be limited to 20 people. Look on the TAC webpage for final dates and times and how to sign up for the program. TAC is also working on a plan to develop a demonstration pollinator meadow adjacent to the community garden plots. Establishment will take about three years. Native pollinators are at increasing

risk, and anything that we can do to increase habitat for these important pollinators will be critical in the future. Based on information from UNH Extension, the seed mix used will be a mixture of native annuals, perennials, and native grasses. This mixture provides plants used by native pollinators from early spring through late fall. Information will be available for anyone in town who is interested in establishing similar meadows. If you have interests in any aspect of agriculture in the town that you think the commission should consider, please contact any of the TAC commissioners. Sue Wingate, Chairman Tuftonboro Agricultural Commission

Winter is almost over, and we can’t wait for summer at the Tuftonboro Transfer Station. Recycling procedures at remain the same this year as last year. Our current employees remain the same: Robert Dean, Kerry Long, and Ralph Bussiere are per diem attendants. Barry Colbert, Rob Edwards, and Clay Gallagher are full time employees. The new Transfer Station Stickers for 20172018 are in and available for purchase at the Transfer Station or the Town Offices. The new stickers are white in color with black lettering and they are $5 per sticker. Please make sure you have the current sticker displayed on the front window of any vehicle you drive to the Transfer Station. There are new procedures this year for disposal of household hazardous waste (HHW). The Selectmen decided to join the Lakes Region Planning Commission (LRPC) hazardous waste disposal

program and accordingly they have terminated our membership in the Lakes Region Hazardous Waste program in Wolfeboro. The LRPC program has two collection dates this summer (July 29th & August 5th) and eight different locations where our residents can drop off their HHW items. In the LRPC program there is no cost for Tuftonboro residents and there are no administrative requirements (tickets or passes) other than having a current, Tuftonboro transfer station sticker on your vehicle. Also with LRPC there are no restrictions on the number of Tuftonboro households that can use the program. The only restriction LRPC has is that there is a 10 gallon/50-pound limit per household for waste items. Use the following link to see what materials you may bring and the locations and dates for drop off: http://www.lakesrpc.org/ serviceshhw.asp. In addition to using the LRPC program,

Tuftonboro residents may still utilize the LRHHW Wolfeboro facility during their 6 open days, but they must pay the going LRHHW rate for the HHW materials they drop off. No tickets or passes required, but bring money to pay for disposal of your items. The Tuftonboro Police Department will be overseeing Drug Take Back Day at the transfer station on April 29th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please join us in reducing all our taxes by recycling (plastic, tin cans, aluminum cans, glass, cardboard, and mixed paper). Residents that continue to throw recyclables into the compactors are just throwing tax dollars down the drain and costing everyone more money in taxes. The more material we keep out of the household waste compactors, the more expense we avoid. Clay Gallagher, Supervisor Transfer Station

Agricultural Commission works on mission statement

New Household Hazardous Waste Program in Tuftonboro

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Melvin Village Community Church plans active program Melvin Village Community Church is a community church for those looking for a welcoming and friendly environment to gather in Christian fellowship and to grow in your personal faith journey with God. We encourage you to come and see who we are by joining us on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. April will bring Holy Week events including:

Each Monday and Thursday join us in the Gribble Room (downstairs at the church) for The Strong Living Class, an exercise class for adults beginning at 8:30 a.m. If you are interested in joining the MVCC Bell Choir, practice begins at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings, followed by Choir rehearsal at 7:30 p.m. All who are interested are encouraged to contact Music

Director, Peggy Johnson, at peggyjohnjohnson@ gmail.com. Youth Group Bible study and worship will meet on May 7th at 5:00 p.m. followed by a Youth Group car wash from 9:00 a.m. to noon on May 27th at John Warner’s Melvin Village Garage. Stop by and have your car washed by an entertaining and remarkable group of young adults! The Youth Group Getaway is scheduled to begin on June 27th. For more details about this event or about the MVCC Youth Group, contact Nicki Hunter at the church. The Annual Church Fair and Auction will be held at the church on Saturday, July 22nd beginning at 9:00 a.m. If you have items you would like to donate for this event, the barn across the street from the church will be open each Saturday morning from 9:00 a.m. to noon, beginning on June 3rd and through July 15th. Thank you for all donations. If you would like more information about any of these events, or about our church community please contact Judy in the church office at (603) 544-9661. You can find us on the web at melvinvillagecommunitychurch.org and listen to a podcast of a Sunday service. Pastor Kevin Van Brunt

The 2017 summer worship season at the Mirror Lake Community Church will begin on Sunday, June 25th. Services begin at 10:00 a.m. and are led by different guest ministers. Music is also an important part of each Sunday service and is provided by numerous guest musicians. The Mirror Lake Church is nondenominational and welcomes all worshipers and music lovers. The 148-year old church building is located at the intersection of Governor Wentworth Highway (Route 109) and Tuftonboro Neck Road in the village of Mirror Lake. The initial service on June 25th will be officiated by the Reverend Dr. Raymond Weigle of New Durham,

NH. The following Sunday, July 2nd, will bring the Reverend Canon G. Robert Cain of Wolfeboro, NH to the pulpit. Next up, on July 9th, is the Reverend Dr. Dr. Blair Moffett, also of Wolfeboro, NH. The Reverend Marshal Davis of Sandwich, NH will preach on July 16th, followed by the Reverend Mr. Kevin Van Brunt, from Camp Sentinel in Center Tuftonboro, NH on July 23rd. On July 30th, the Reverend Mr. Alden Barnes from Bristol, CT will preach, and on August 6th, the Reverend Linda Bolton from Sandwich, NH will lead the service. On August 13th, the church will welcome the Reverend Dr. Edward Vanderhey of Sanibel, FL and

Moultonborough, NH. On August 20th, the Reverend Dr. Arthur A. Rouner, Jr. from Edina, MN will return to the Mirror Lake pulpit. Another returning pastor, the Reverend Edward Charest from Moultonborough, NH, will officiate on August 27th. Sunday, September 3rd, will bring the Reverend Mr. Brad Wolff of Moultonboro, NH to Mirror Lake. The Mirror Lake Community Church season will end on Sunday, September 10th, with The Reverend John Davies of Sandwich, NH leading the congregation. Pam Thayer

Looking past the snow and mud season to the first warm evenings of Spring, the Tuftonboro Country, Bluegrass and Gospel Music Jam continues its tenth year at the Old White Church on Middle Road in Center Tuftonboro. Musicians from near and far come to participate every Tuesday night from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Musicians line the 16 chairs up front on stage and others come up from the audience to participate. If you play a guitar, a fiddle, mandolin, banjo, dobro or can sing a good country, bluegrass or gospel song,

come and join in. If you don’t play or sing but enjoy live music come to listen. Everyone is welcome at the Old White Church in Tuftonboro. Joe Ewing leads the jam, so check with him if you come to participate. All the regulars have an unwritten reserved seat so all others are first come, first choice. Let Joe help you find an unreserved seat and be sure to have several songs ready to sing in case someone else performs your song before it’s your turn. As in any venue, the other players will tolerate almost anything as long as it is short.

Per Joe: “If you show up with a guitar or other instrument and say you can play or sing, you can play with us.” Find your way to the Old White Church any Tuesday night and enjoy the fun. The Church is located on Route 109A across from the General Store & Post Office. There is no admission charge, but a $2.00 minimum donation is suggested. Everyone is invited to enjoy cookies, coffee and other refreshments while listening or playing some good music. Put on your cowboy hat, plaid shirt, blue jeans and head over to the Old White Church soon. Joe Ewing

Palm Sunday Service Sunday April 9th at 10:00 a.m. Maundy Thursday Service Thursday April 13th at 6:30 p.m. Friday April 14th 9a.m.-3p.m. Church is open for personal prayers Easter Sunrise service Sunday April 16th at 7:00 a.m. Easter Sunday service Sunday April 16th at 10:00 a.m.

The Melvin Village Community Church Youth Group recently volunteered and the Center Harbor Soup Kitchen. (left to right) Grace Abraham, Giana Cubeddu

Mirror Lake Community Church season starts June 25

Country, Bluegrass, Gospel: Jam at the Old White Church

6

Hikers’ plans include Easter breakfast, meatball cook-off The Hikers club will be hosting several events before the end of its 2016-17 season. The first will be our annual Easter breakfast on April 16th at Willing Workers Hall in Melvin Village from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Breakfast includes freshly made pancakes, eggs, hash browns, ham, sausage and hot cross buns, all for the low price of $8.00 dollars with half price for children. There will also be an appearance by the Easter Bunny for the little ones! This will be followed by a Meatball Cook-off to be held on Friday April 28th at the Willing Worker’s Hall from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. Members of the community are encouraged to put their culinary skills to the test and have a friendly competition to see who makes the best meatballs in town! The winner will receive a cook-off trophy, a prize, and the honor of

becoming the “2017 Hikers Meatball Champ.” Dinner will include sampling of a variety of meatballs, salad, bread, dessert, coffee and tea. The cost is $10.00 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Last year’s themed Mac-n-Cheese cook off was well received with over 70 attendees sampling 10 different dishes. All proceeds from this event to benefit the Hikers’ Scholarship Fund. Doing some spring cleaning? In the market for some great bargains? The Hikers will be holding a Rummage Sale on Saturday May 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Willing Worker’s Hall. Donated items are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off Friday May 19 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. And lastly, following a break for summer, the Hikers will kick off its new season with a barbeque to

be held at Camp Belknap on Thursday September 14. This event was a huge success last year, with a beautiful waterfront setting, a delicious meal, a Chinese basket auction, and the opportunity to socialize with many members of the community. More information will be provided as the date approaches. The Hikers would like to once again thank the community for its support for these events. Your participation allows us to continue to provide scholarships to local, deserving students in pursuit of higher education, as well as assistance to many local charities. If you have any questions regarding these events or would like to attend a meeting, please contact president Carol Simpson at (603) 539-7587. Maria Coussens

Once again thank you to all the community members who attended the Spaghetti Dinner prior to Town Meeting. Your contributions directly support the Tuftonboro Parks and Recreation Davis Field Playground Maintenance Fund. Thank you to all the parents and PTCO members who generously contributed to this important fund. Students at the Tuftonboro Central School (TCS) have been extremely busy this year. Before February break, students participated in a school-wide reading challenge sponsored by the minor league baseball team, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Students worked very hard to read enough books to earn free tickets to one of the baseball games. Reading is an essential part of education and to be rewarded for it is even more exciting! Spring is also an exciting time at TCS for after-school activities. Lego Club is just wrapping up and Chess Club is beginning. The Parent Teacher Community Organization (PTCO) sponsored Children’s Stage Adventures

this year. Students who participated in the program worked tirelessly the week of March 20th to perform, The Elves and the Shoemaker. Families, staff, and students enjoyed a fantastic performance on the afternoon of March 24th. We are so grateful to the PTCO for their continued support for such a wonderful experience! The PTCO also has multiple projects this spring. April brings our annual Family Fun Night. Parents are invited to come for dinner then participate in rotations. The rotations include team building activities, mindfulness breaks, trivia hunt, games, and book fair. In May, our annual Mother/ Son Social is held at YMCA Camp Belknap. Mothers and their sons enjoy dinner, dancing, and games for an evening of quality time spent together. These events are always well attended where families can enjoy time together and have fun! Student Council members are an integral part of our TCS community who help lead the way to new and exciting leadership opportunities. They

are just beginning the planning stages of our Earth Day activities, Spirit week, and Field Day. It always amazes me how dedicated the students, staff, parents, and the community are to TCS. Thank you for your continued support! Other important dates: Monday, April 24th - Friday, April 28th Spring Recess Tuesday, May 2nd PTCO Meeting 6:00 p.m. Saturday, May 13th Mother/Son Social at YMCA Camp Belknap Wednesday, May 17th Delayed Opening for students Monday, May 29th Memorial Day/ No school Tuesday, May 30th Memorial Day progam 2:00 p.m. Andrea Fournier Principal

Since 1949, Sentinel has been providing a summer Christian community for youth to build self-esteem, have meaningful connections, develop character, become strong leaders and to discover and explore creativity through the guidance of a well-trained staff. We believe that camp is an opportunity for everyone. For over 60 years the Youth Overnight Camp Program has provided a safe, fun, Christian summer camp experience. Daily activities include: swimming, boating, arts & crafts, team building games, ropes course with zip line, rock wall, archery, hiking, large group team sports, and many other great adventures. Each evening the entire camp gathers for Vespers which is a time of worship, singing and Bible study. On Friday evenings, we gather at a special “red carpet

celebration” banquet where campers dress up for a special dinner to celebrate the week. Program weeks: Sunday June 25th * Sunday July 2nd Sunday July 9th * Sunday July 16th Sunday July 23rd Sunday August 6th *campers may stay for two weeks If you need additional information, please contact the camp office (603) 539-4839 or info@ campsentinel.org. The Camp Sentinel Spring Workday will be held on Saturday, April 29th, from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Dust off the cabin bunks and help prepare the buildings and grounds for our 68th summer season! We would not be able to operate without the help of our volunteers. Volunteer work for all abilities and skill levels – all welcome! Lunch and group picture

Tuftonboro Central School hails dedicated staff, students

Camp Sentinel offers character-building opportunities

7

Campers in the water at Camp Sentinel

at 12:00. Individuals, churches and youth groups welcome! Please RSVP to [email protected] so we may have a count for lunch and jobs set up. The 5-week, Spring Youth Adventure Class Continued on page 8

Parks & Rec from page 1 Town Beach. Meet the water safety Instructors, life guards and swim team coach. Not sure what level lessons your child should be in? Pre-test evaluations will be held to determine the right level. Enjoy a FREE hot dog lunch, water games and the beach. A summer craft of some sort will be available to keep little hands busy and also to be part of the fun. The Kick Off will be held rain or shine as this is the last day to register for lessons or swim team. The Commission is excited about a Summer Concert Series at the Pavilion. Listen to great music while enjoying the Summer breezes and sunsets at 19 Mile Beach. The schedule includes: On July 6th, the Carolyn Ramsay band – a band with musical roots in Rock and Folk, their soulful style paints the songs they cover with their own brush leaving a joyful impression on their audiences. On July 13th, The Sweetbloods – A duo whose music centers around acoustic versions of Classic Rock tunes, Folk Rock, and Country Rock intermingled with Folk, Bluegrass, Reggae, Calypso, Blues and Jazz tunes.

On July 23rd, the NH Music Festival Returns to Tuftonboro, as part of their Music in the Mountains Series. The New Hampshire Music Festival is a summer Festival that honors the tradition of Classical Music while exploring new artistic paths. On July 27, Big Medicine, whose set list consists of Classic Rock from the Eagles, the Beatles, 60s hits, Motown and lots of surprises, all designed to take you back comfortably to simpler times. All the Concerts will be held at the 19-mile Beach pavilion at 6:30 p.m. and are sponsored by Meredith Village Savings Bank. Free admission, concessions will be available. A free-will offering will be accepted – proceeds to benefit the Tuftonboro Scholarship Fund. Seating is on the lawn or the beach; please bring your favorite chair or blanket. Mark your calendars for community fun on Aug. 25th through the 27th during the second annual Tuftonboro Old Home Days. Events include: An Antique Car Show, 5K Run/Walk, Cardboard Boat Race, Live Entertainment, a Community Dinner, Town Picnic, and more! All are Welcome! The town website (www.tuftonboro.org) will be updated

with more information as it becomes available. Along with these events the Parks and Recreation Commission has several projects in the works, including replacing the decking on three sections of the docks at the 19 Mile Bay Town Beach, and adding sand to the beach. They plan to Install perennial plantings in the butterfly garden at Davis Field, and work on the trail between the field and library. The commission is also working with the Conservation Commission on trail plans for the Great Meadow. More projects and programs are also in the works for the fall. Looking to be involved with your community? Parks & Rec needs volunteers for programs and projects, and is also in need of members for the commission. All are welcome and encouraged to attend our meetings the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Offices; use the Code Enforcement office entrance. For more information visit www.tuftonboro. org or email [email protected]. Gina Lessard, Chairman Parks & Recreation Commission

Grange from page 3 received the Grange Citizenship Award including Bob Straw, Bill Stockman, Roger Wingate, Norman Vittum, Dan Buttrick, Mary Ann Murray and Police Chief Andy Shagoury. Fundraising efforts evolved in the 1980s/1990s, and the Tuftonboro Grange started offering summertime turkey suppers (with all the trimmings) which were quite popular. People still mention these suppers and how they found it a great way to meet with each other and have a fun night out. The Grange also held a popular, annual pork barbeque. As it enters a new century, the Tuftonboro Grange #142 remains active and involved in the community. It continues to maintain the hall and provide for

repairs as needed. It continues to persevere, seek new members, and be involved in the community. In recent years, it has continued its outreach and community support with donations to VNA-Hospice of Southern Carroll County, L.I.F.E. Ministries, the Tuftonboro Central School’s Dictionary Project, and the Tuftonboro Police Beneficent Fund. Grange members hope to be able to modernize their building while maintaining its historical significance. Current fundraising efforts have morphed into two Penny Sales per year (in July and November), bake sales, and one or two other yearly events. Now in its 128th year, Tuftonboro Grange #142 is a charitable, non-profit, fraternal organization which

will continue to focus on the home and farm, remain dedicated to community service and supportive of numerous national, state, and local charities. Gradually, over the years, membership has shrunk and now there are fewer hands to help out with fund raising activities. The Grange hall still requires repair and updating; new human energy as well as funds are needed to ensure that this Tuftonboro public structure is preserved. The Grange is a family organization welcoming all regardless of race, sex, age, religion, or political persuasion. For information concerning Tuftonboro Grange #142 contact Joy Perkins, Secretary, (PO Box 119, Ctr Tuftonboro NH 03816) or Florence Perkins, Master (19 Middle Road, Wolfeboro NH 03894.)

Fire & Rescue from page 4

up and the leaves pop out. Contrary to popular belief, the Department has no control over outside burning laws (other than a local fire ban due to wind and dry conditions.) Laws regarding burning are controlled by the State of NH. We are only agents of the State when we issue permits. If you would like to see

changes in the outside burning laws, please contact your local State Representatives and give them your input. I am sure they would love to hear from you and other constituents. For more information on outside fires and permits, please visit the Town’s website and follow the links on the departments page. Remember to change your batteries in your

smoke/ carbon monoxide detectors if you haven’t done so already. A smoke detector is useless unless it is functioning properly. We recommend changing the batteries when you set your clocks for daylight savings. When you change your clock, change your batteries. Caleb Pyke, Captain Fire & Rescue

Sentinel from page 7 The 5-week, Spring Youth Adventure Class (Wednesdays, April 26th – May 24th, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at Camp Sentinel centers on team building and physical fitness through outdoor activities. Youths (ages 7-12) will take part in Hiking, Rock Climbing, Archery, Kayaking, Zip Lining, and team games. All ability levels welcome.

The Sentinel Father/Son Camp (for sons aged 3+) will be held Friday, May 12th from 6:00 p.m. until Saturday, May 13th, at 3:00 p.m. The purpose of the father/son camp is for dads and their son(s) to come together in the outdoors. Campers arrive Friday evening with a welcome dinner. Activities include team building, campfire, smores and free time. The purpose of Camp Sentinel is to create a

welcoming environment for Christian relationship building and spiritual renewal. Within the stillness of God’s creation and through the guidance of the staff, people are moved from discovery into authentic relationships with others and with Jesus Christ. Rev. Kevin Van Brunt, Director

8

Library Capital Campaign Committee starts fundraising Put a little Spring in your step at your library! The snowshoes will soon be retired for the season, but there’s lots more to share. There are exciting programs and engaging exhibits and the latest in literary fiction, provocative non-fiction, and gorgeous picture books. Also, movies and audio books, both virtual and actual. Plus, a whole lot more. The fourth Book & Author Lunch of the year is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 29th, and will feature a return engagement by Dan Szczesny. Dan was last in Tuftonboro in 2014, to talk about his NH hiking memoir, The Adventures of Buffalo and Tough Cookie, which is about climbing all forty-eight 4,000-footers with his young ward. This year, he’ll focus on his first collection of short stories, titled Sing. He’ll talk about how the process of writing fiction differs from writing facts, and show slides of some of the actual locations that inspired the stories. Copies of Sing and all of Dan’s other books are available to read in advance, and will also be available for sale/ signing at the program. Tickets are required but free. Stop by the library to pick yours up, or call 569-4256 to reserve one. There’s still time to take in Jan Helling Croteau’s gorgeous “land-escapes” and bold still life paintings, on display through April. Much of her art is inspired by poetry, and all her art is accompanied by original essays, which deepen and extend the visual experience. In May, the students at Tuftonboro Central School take over the walls and display case, with their annual exhibit of exuberant creativity. Art teacher Marcia Kiley-Lemay, who was February’s featured artist, takes care to select the best work of the year for the student display, and every single student is represented in the show. Watch the library website and Facebook page for notice of a gala opening for this exhibit, date to be announced. It’s a real treat to watch the young artists present their work (and the cookies are homemade). Frederick Foley’s original, primitive artwork will be featured in June. He’s a first-time exhibitor, and it will also be the first-ever library exhibit devoted to primitive art. July’s artist is Nick Moore, another first-time exhibitor at TFL, who specializes in wood turning. His artistry with a lathe reveals the swirling grains in exotic and native woods alike, and his creations are practical as well as beautiful. Continuing programs this spring include Preschool Story Hour, which will run through June 22nd on Thursday mornings at 9:30 a.m., before taking a summer hiatus. Join the crew for read-aloud stories, felt board play, songs, rhymes, and simple crafts. No registration is necessary, and drop-ins (and older/ younger siblings) are most welcome. The Saturday Writers Group meets Saturday mornings (of course) at 10:00 a.m. Writers, and

Library Capital Campaign Committee at a recent work session (left to right) Jack Widmer, Terri White, Mark Howard, Marcia Fernald, Dianne Luby, Gordon Hunt (chair), Carla Lootens, Bob Theve, Dave Lee, Gina Lessard (graphic design), and Christie Sarles. Missing member: Laureen Hadley aspiring writers, of all ages and stripes are welcome. Please bring a sample of your work to share with the group. Questions? Contact Phil Soletsky (psoletsky@ gmail.com.) The History Book Group meets on the last Wednesday of the month, at 7:00 p.m. The book for April 26th is Elephant Company: The Inspiring Story of an Unlikely Hero and the Animals Who Helped Him Save Lives in World War II, by Vicki Croke. The selection for May 31st is American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History by Chris Kyle with Scott McEwan and Jim DeFelice. Books for the June 28th and July 26th sessions have not yet been chosen. New members (and their suggestions for new readings, both nonfiction and historical fiction) are always welcome, and books are always available to read in advance. The library’s Summer Reading Program will benefit the Lakes Region Humane Society again this year. This is how it works: interested adults sign up to sponsor a young reader. For every book the child reads, the sponsor agrees to donate one item to LRHS. A list of needed items will be provided when sponsors sign up. Last year’s efforts by readers and sponsors alike resulted in an impressive pile of 385 cans of dog and cat food, treats, toys, and other shelter necessities. Can we beat that mark this year? Special summer programs and events for kids of all ages are scheduled for Friday mornings at 10:00 a.m., beginning on June 30th, and continuing through

9

August 11th. The inaugural event features Marvelous Marvin, back by popular demand for another amazing workshop. If you thought Brain Circus was fun last year, get ready for Science Dance – learn about some science secrets, then jump, skip, pop, slide, stretch, dance, and hunt for verbs in a huge pile of toys! The rest of the Friday morning summer program lineup, still pending confirmation, will include crafts, magic, puppets, and wild animals – watch the website and Facebook page for details to come. Saturday mornings in July and August are reserved for Freestyle Family Crafts. Come any time between 10:00 a.m. and noon, and make something fun to take home – there’ll be different craft options every week. And when it rains, as it must, banish the blues at a Rainy-Day Matinee – G-rated family movies at 2:00 p.m. on rainy afternoons, with popcorn and lemonade of course. Family or friends visiting? Keep in mind that the Friends of the Tuftonboro Library have funded free or reduced-price passes to 14 popular local and regional museums and attractions, from the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire to the Castle in the Clouds. Passes can be reserved for a specific day. And commemorative photos are most welcome – we’d love to post your selfies on the Tuftonboro Free Library Facebook page. The TFL Capital Campaign Committee has Continued on page 10

Panoramic scene made better at historic Abenaki Tower The following note was received from Brendan Burnett, a fourth-generation summer resident of Tuftonboro. He wrote “You may have noticed a new sign for the Abenaki Tower along Route 109. Maybe you’ve walked up to the tower and noticed a major project to remove intruding trees and improve the panoramic vistas of Moultonborough Bay, the Ossipee Range and Lake Winnipesaukee. But have you ever stopped to wonder who maintains the tower? Why it’s free to visit? And why it was ever built in the first place?” Brendan’s aunt, Karen Burnett-Kurie, answered many of those questions in a series of articles she wrote for the Granite State News. Part I of those articles is reprinted here because the Tower is such an important Tuftonboro landmark. The Abenaki Tower in Melvin Village is described today as an “Easy, gradual hike. Ideal for families with small children, 1/3 mile, a 20 minutewalk. The climb to the tower is steep, but the views make it worthwhile for everyone.” The trailhead and parking area are on Route 109, at the top of a rise overlooking Melvin Bay. It is approximately eight miles from the center of Wolfeboro and three miles going toward Wolfeboro from Melvin Village. I’m sure many of you summer and year-round residents have enjoyed the tower’s vantage point year after year. So how did Abenaki Tower come to be? Well my grandmother on my father’s side, Ethel Turner Burnett, was quite an archivist and in her scrap books at our summer cottage on Old Pasture Rd., in Melvin Village, I found the answer to this and several other questions. Ethel writes: “We find the answer in a letter written by Mr. Joshua Q. Litchfield, headmaster of the Agassiz School to Mr. Frank Speare, President of Northeastern University. Both were lovers of the Mountains and the Lake Country. Mr. Litchfield’s letter reads in part as follows: “We surely started something on that lovely August day in 1923 when we stopped to get a view from that mountain road and you suggested the possibility of a tower on Edgerly Hill.” Ethel Burnett goes on with her explanation about the Abenaki Tower: “They lost no time in getting started. First an organization was formed of like-minded friends and neighbors, and Mr. Chester l. Campbell was made president. In February 1924,

plans were drawn for a tower and arrangements were made with Mr. John Edgerly for the purchase of the land. A price of $800.00 was finally agreed upon. Mr. Lewis McIntire estimated it would cost $400.00 to build the tower. It was said “much credit is due Mr. McIntire for no man in the entire region could duplicate Mr. McIntire’s splendid work.” On July 12th, 1924 the Tower was formally dedicated. There were 125 people present. On November 22, 1924 the organization was duly incorporated. The next question typically asked is: How did it get its name? According to Ethel, “the tower is said to be built at the junction of several old Abenaki Indian Trails.” And the third question: how did they pay for the tower? “The Association started with quite a debt. Bridge and whist parties, food sales and various entertainments were given to raise the necessary money. In 1930, six years later, the Treasurer finally reported “All bills PAID.” This history is confirmed, with some small variations, by a June 1975 article on the Abenaki Tower by the Commemorative Newspaper Committee exploring the early days in Tuftonboro and Melvin Village. This article explains: “Abenaki Tower which is located nine tenths of a mile south of the junction of 109 and 109A on route 109, was erected on what was known as Edgerly Hill, previously known as Lamprey Hill and before as Neck Hill. “The tower was built by Lewis McIntire of Center Tuftonboro, who received the sum of $4.50 a day for his labor. Building the tower cost a bit over $500.00 with the cost of five acres of land on which it was erected being $800.00. The land mortgage was paid off by various fundraising events such as card parties and suppers, -- while individual contributions cleared the indebtedness for the tower. The undertaking was completely paid for by August 25, 1928. “Abenaki Tower is said to be built at the intersection of four Indian trails – three of which have been located. One leads to Melvin Village – thence to Moultonborough, Another trail leads to Ossipee, and a third to Wawbeek. The stone entrance was erected by Mr. McIntire in 1929. “For fifteen years the sum of $10.00 was paid annually to hire someone to raise and lower the flag

each Sunday during the summer season. In the early days, a number of nature-study paths were made, and a great deal of labor was expended every year in keeping the paths open. Ethel then writes: “All except the main entrance path were finally abandoned as few people took advantage of the pleasure of using them.” I remember the nature trails were resurrected in the 1980’s but were again abandoned due again to volunteer commitment to maintenance and usage. Ethel notes: “In the fortyeight years since Abenaki Tower was built, many hundreds of people have enjoyed the view and it is the wish of the Association that the Tower will continue to be “freely and considerately used.” During these decades and still true now, the ‘membership’ dues and donations by Abenaki Tower and Trail/Association members and friends cover the cost of maintaining the tower, trails, parking area and signage. As Ethel wrote: “The regular seasonal maintenance costs (grounds care, signs, painting, shingling, replacement of structural supports, etc.) and the local sustaining membership dues just about balance. Every few years major repairs and the thinning and topping of trees (to keep the view open), require special donations or assessments far beyond the regular dues. In the near future we will be facing substantial repairs.” The message back then is the same as now: “The Association is anxious to gain new sustaining members. The annual dues and donations are always welcome. All receipts are used wholly for the maintenance of the tower. “ Ethel Burnett wrote her summary in the early 1970’s after reading the minutes of Abenaki Tower Association meetings. By then, her husband/my grandfather Howard Weston Burnett as well as Vice Admiral Dyer had each served as President of the Association. Now my brother is President and a small group of dedicated year-round and summer residents continues to provide the tower “freely and considerately” for everyone’s use. Everyone who has enjoyed the tower can support its continuation by becoming an Association member and paying $25 per year in dues. These dues cover the ongoing costs of maintenance for the tower. Write to:  Abenaki Tower and Trail Association, PO Box 222, Melvin Village, NH 03850.

Library from page 9

goal is to raise an additional $500,000 in private gifts and pledges to help offset the cost of the new building. Over $65,000 has already been pledged to date – just over 13% of the goal. For more information on how you can help support your library with a gift or pledge of cash or securities, please contact Gordon Hunt, TFL Capital Campaign Committee Chair, at [email protected]. For a refresher on new building plans, check out the library

website (www.tuftonborolibrary.org) where you can access detailed architectural drawings and construction specs, and link to the full report of the Library Building Advisory Committee, complete with FAQs and all appendices. Still have new building questions? Just ask! Christie V. Sarles Librarian/Director

The TFL Capital Campaign Committee has been working behind the scenes since last September to organize a major fundraising effort to benefit the Library Building Fund. The “quiet phase” of the campaign – that period when substantial gifts are solicited -- has just now begun, and will continue through this spring and summer, with the “public phase” rolling out in the fall. The overall campaign

10

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

April 15

1 PM

Easter Egg Hunt - Rain or Shine - bring your Easter Basket!

DMF

16

7 - 10 AM

Easter Breakfast - sponsored by the Hikers

WWH

22

8 AM - 12 AM

Town wide road clean up - hosted by Tuftonboro Association

Town Roads

22

5 PM and 6:30 PM

Roast Turkey dinner - hosted by the Tuftonboro Methodist Church

TUMC

28

6 - 7:30 PM

Meatball cookoff! - sponsored by the Hikers

WWH

29

11 AM

Book & Author Lunch - Dan Szczesny talks about his book Sing

TFL

5 PM and 6:30 PM

Roast Pork dinner - hosted by the Tuftonboro Methodist Church

TUMC

3

9 AM - 1 PM

Town wide yard sale - Maps available from Town Offices & Library

Town Wide

9

After sunset

Led by Conservation Commission Chairman Steve Wingate

SWG

24

5 PM and 6:30 PM

Chicken Supreme dinner - hosted by the Tuftonboro Methodist Church

TUMC

24

11 AM - 1 PM

Summer Kickoff - FREE hot dog lunch & water games at the beach

Town Beach

6

6:30 PM

Summer concerts at the Pavilion - Carolyn Ramsey

Town Beach

13

6:30 PM

Summer concerts at the Pavilion - The Sweetbloods

Town Beach

23

6:30 PM

Summer concerts at the Pavilion - New Hampshire Music Festival

Town Beach

27

6:30 PM

Summer concerts at the Pavilion - Big Medicine

Town Beach

May 27 June

July

August 25 - 27 Varies

Tuftonboro Old Home Days - Check out details online - www.tuftonboro.org Varies Widely

Ongoing First Tuesdays of the month

PTCO meeting at 6:00 PM

TCS

Thursdays - 9:30 AM

Pre-school Story Hour - last meeting before summer hiatus, 22 June

TFL

Tuesday - 6:30 – 9:30 PM

Country, Bluegrass & Gospel Music Jam Session Musicians & Listeners Welcome– Info: Joe Ewing 569-3861

OWC

Every Monday night EXCEPT Knit Wits first Monday of the month 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

TFL

Saturdays - 10 AM - 12 PM

TFL

Saturday Writers Group

Last Wednesday of the month History Book Club at 7:00 PM

TFL

KEY to Abbreviations: TFL - Tuftonboro Free Library TGH - Tuftonboro Grange Hall TWS - Town Web Site TCS - Tuftonboro Central School

TUMC -Tuftonboro United Methodist Church DMF - Davis Memorial Field TTO - Tuftonboro Town Offices OWC - Old White Church THS - Tuftonboro Historical Society SWG - Spider Web Gardens WWH - Willing Workers Hall

11

The Melvin River Boat Landing photographed in 1929 or shortly before. At the end of Lake Street stands a boathouse. The back of the photograph has the following note: “Boathouse in original location in 1929 & 1930. Moved to the west side of River Rd. in 1935, then moved back in front of 7 rm. Cottage in spring of 1936.” The smaller photograph shows the boathouse as it stands today, behind the Richard Dickey home in Melvin Village.

The Tuftonboro Association P.O. Box 121 Melvin Village, NH 03850

Non-Profit Org. U. S. Postage

PAID

Permit #3 Melvin Village, NH

TUFTONBORO POSTAL PATRON