Image Magazine - Fall 2025

TAKE A HIKE! MOUNT MANSFIELD FROM EVERY DIRECTION

LOVE’S BEDDING & FURNITURE TLC FOR YOUR HOME

EYEGLASS OUTLET

PERFECT FRAMES, EXCELLENT SERVICE

NEW ENGLAND’S GLORY DAYS

EMBRACE THE BEAUTY

Interior Design

Custom Fabrication

Renovations

2025

FEATURES

38 | Top of Vermont

Mount Mansfield from every direction. by Lisa Ballard

58 | Tracy Hutchins: From UVBA to B&B

Meet the new proprietor of the historic Colonel Spencer Inn. by Anne Richter Arnold

66 | Look Good, See Well, Pay Less

Find the perfect frames and excellent service at Eyeglass Outlet. by Dean Whitlock

72 | Community Comes First at Upper Valley Food Co-op

Good food, education, and the circular economy. by Mary Gow

page

ENGLAND’S GLORY DAYS

Right: Hikers on ski trail side, Mount Mansfield.

Photo by Lisa Ballard.

Cover: Fall day in New England.

Photo by © James Kirkikis | Dreamstime.com

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PLAY STRUCTURES -

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WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM

Publishers Bob Frisch Cheryl Frisch

Executive Editor Deborah Thompson

Associate Editor Kristy Erickson

Creative Director/Design Ellen Klempner-Béguin

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Web Design Locable

Inbound Marketing Manager Erin Frisch Newton

Advertising Ryan Frisch

KEEP US POSTED: image magazine wants to hear from readers. Correspondence may be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, image, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755. Or email us at: dthompson@mountainviewpublishing. com.Advertising inquiries may be made by email to ryanfrisch@mountainviewpublishing. com. image is published quarterly by Mountain View Publishing, LLC ©2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. image magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.

Welcome to Autumn

As the lush greens of summer begin to fade and a crispness moves in on the air, we find ourselves at the threshold of autumn—a season that invites reflection, gratitude, and a cozy sense of togetherness. Leaves turn to brilliant shades of amber and crimson, signaling a change in the landscape as well as a reminder to appreciate the beauty in nature’s transition. We embrace the spirit of fall and the warmth it brings as we gather with friends and family to revisit our favorite traditions. Whether you’re savoring turkey and all the trimmings, watching a football game, or walking in the woods with fallen leaves underfoot (oh, that wonderful smell), autumn encourages us to reconnect—with ourselves and with each other.

A great way to connect with yourself and with nature is to hike Mount Mansfield (page 38). Lisa Ballard outlines different routes to take, each with its own special appeal. There’s no better way to spend a spectacular autumn day.

Looking to get out of town for the day or the weekend? Take advantage of foliage season by making the drive to the Colonel Spencer Inn in Campton, New Hampshire (page 58). New proprietors Tracy Hutchins and Jim Hall are waiting to treat you to their hospitality and elegant style at their charming 1764 inn. Welcome to autumn, and welcome to our latest issue. May this season bring you inspiration, comfort, and a renewed sense of wonder. Keep in touch with news and events at www.greateruppervalley.com. Enjoy!

Deborah Thompson Executive Editor dthompson@mountainviewpublishing.com

 Anne Richter Arnold, WRITER

When not sharing her passion for wine through tasting events and educational classes throughout Northern New England, Anne writes professionally and for her blog, From the Vine to Wine. She is also completing a psychological thriller set in New Hampshire. In her free time, she enjoys world travel, playing the piano, hiking, kayaking, and creating wonderful meals to pair with wine. She makes her home on the Seacoast with her husband, dogs, cats, goats, and chickens.

 Lisa Ballard, WRITER AND PHOTOGRAPHER

A full-time freelance writer and photographer, Lisa is a graduate of Dartmouth College who resided in the Upper Valley for another 25 years. She is the author of 13 books, including Best Hikes with Dogs: New Hampshire & Vermont, Hiking the White Mountains, and Hiking the Green Mountains. She covers all types of travel, outdoor recreation, and conservation topics for over 25 magazines. www.LisaBallardOutdoors.com

 Ian Raymond, PHOTOGRAPHER

Ian has been photographing people and places in New Hampshire for over 30 years, and his studio, Raymond Photographic Imaging, is located in Laconia. Besides photography for magazines, catalogs, and brochures, he specializes in architectural photography and fine-art portraiture. Ian has served as chairman of the Sanbornton Energy Committee, as a state legislator, and as a renewable energy advocate.

 Dean Whitlock, WRITER Dean, a longtime resident of Thetford, Vermont, is a freelance writer, author, and fundraising auctioneer for nonprofits. He is also an amateur birdwatcher of many years standing, thanks to his wife, his mother-in-law, and Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. You can find out more about his novels and short stories at deanwhitlock.com.

Indulge in Local Foods During Dinner in the Orchard 

For a memorable date night or fun meal with friends, Riverview Farms is holding several more Dinner in the Orchard events through the fall.

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 Spirit Halloween Coming to West Lebanon

Spirit Halloween is known for its abundance of costumes, decor, and accessories. Open now until Halloween is over.

 Upper Valley Rideshares

If you’re looking for a carpool buddy, a ride to the airport, or a safe ride home after partying, there are several rideshare options in the Upper Valley.

ONLINE ADVERTISERS INDEX

3 PHASE LANDSCAPING, LLC

ALIGN INN VERMONT

BARTON INSURANCE AGENCY

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CHAPMAN’S GENERAL STORE

COLBY INSURANCE GROUP

CO-OP FOOD STORES

COPELAND FURNITURE

CROSSROADS ACADEMY

DARTMOUTH AUTHENTIC

DATAMANN

DB LANDSCAPING

DESIGNER GOLD

DOLAN REAL ESTATE

DR. NEELY-HANOVER ORTHODONTICS

DUTILLE’S JEWELRY DESIGN STUDIO

EYEGLASS OUTLET

FOLEY BROTHERS BREWING

FORE-U GOLF CENTER

GILBERTE INTERIORS

HANOVER EYECARE

HUBERT’S FAMILY OUTFITTERS

IVY IV AESTHETICS

JEFF WILMOT PAINTING & WALLPAPERING, INC.

LAVALLEY BUILDING SUPPLY

LITTLE ISTANBUL

LOCABLE

MARTHA E. DIEBOLD REAL ESTATE

MB PRO LANDSCAPE DESIGN

MORNINGSIDE FLIGHT PARK

MVP MARINE

NEWPORT GOLF CLUB

POWERHOUSE MALL

RAMUNTO’S OF CLAREMONT

RICHARD ELECTRIC

RIVER ROAD VETERINARY CLINIC

RODD ROOFING

SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL EVENTS

STATELINE SPORTS

THE FLYING GOOSE

THE GILDED EDGE

THE HANOVER INN AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE

THE PUBLIC HOUSE

THE WORKS CAFÉ

TOP STITCH

TUCKERBOX

UPPER VALLEY BUSINESS ALLIANCE

VALLEY REGIONAL HOSPITAL

VILLAGE PIZZA

VINS

WHITE RIVER FAMILY EYECARE

WISE

WOODSTOCK AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WOODSTOCK INN & RESORT

For more information about how your business can get listed on our ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY or for other online advertising opportunities, contact Ryan Frisch at (518) 365-0030 or email ryanfrisch@mountainviewpublishing.com.

MONTHLY TIDBITS | SEPTEMBER

There are flowers enough in the summertime, More flowers than I can remember— But none with the purple, gold, and red That dye the flowers of September!

—Mary Howitt

TODAY IN HISTORY

On September 30, 1927, Babe Ruth became the first baseball player to hit 60 home runs in a season. Although it has been surpassed several times since then, Babe Ruth’s homerun hit remains a monumental benchmark in sports history. “While the crowd cheered and the Yankee players roared their greetings, the Babe made his triumphant, almost regal tour of the paths,” wrote James S. Carolan in the following day’s New York Times. “He jogged around slowly, touched each bag firmly and carefully, and when he imbedded his spikes in the rubber disk to record officially, Homer 60 hats were tossed into the air, papers were torn up and tossed liberally, and the spirit of celebration permeated the place.” Today, the baseball he hit for his 60th home run is nearly 100 years old and resides at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York.

Enjoy the Harvest

September is known as Harvest Month because it’s the ideal time to gather crops in preparation for the winter. Tomatoes, winter squash, potatoes, onions, carrots, beets, and— of course—apples are abundant this time of year. The Anglo-Saxon name for September was Gerst Monath, which means “barley month” in Old English. This was the time of year when the barley crop was harvested. September also features the Harvest Moon, which is the fullest moon of the year.

FACTS, FUN & IDEAS

Show Your Cat Some Extra Love

S eptember is National Happy Cat Month, and a few easy tips can keep your kitty purring this autumn. As your cat transitions from her summer coat to her thicker winter coat, expect lots of shedding. Brush her regularly to help reduce hairballs. As the colder weather approaches, cats naturally start to conserve energy, so you may notice that your kitty is sleeping even more than usual. Now’s the time to put out extra beds or cozy blankets around the house for her to snuggle up in and snooze. If your cat goes outdoors, be aware that many lateblooming plants, such as chrysanthemums and dahlias, are toxic to cats. If you fertilize your lawn this fall, water thoroughly after so the chemicals leach into the soil; your cat only needs to walk through a spot that has been recently treated to get some of the chemicals on her paws, and she can ingest them the next time she grooms herself. Finally, cats can suffer some of the same ailments we do in the fall, such as allergies and arthritis. If you notice dull fur, watery eyes, or skin irritation or if it seems like she’s having joint pain, notify your vet immediately.

MONTHLY TIDBITS |

UNOFFICIAL APPLE MONTH

In the Upper Valley, we know that September is all about apples. According to the Washington Apple Commission (Washington grows more apples than any other state—10 to 12 billion!), it takes the energy from 50 apple tree leaves to produce one apple. The science of growing apples is called pomology. The average American eats 16 pounds of fresh apples each year, and apples ripen 10 times faster at room temperature than when refrigerated. The only apple native to North America is the crabapple, but you can find 20 delicious certified organic varieties at Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center in East Thetford, Vermont. The orchard is located between fields behind the farmstand, on the left as you’re walking toward the river. Once you’re done picking, head back to the farmstand and the staff will weigh your apples. Hours are 8am to 4:45pm. Visit cedarcirclefarm. org for more information.

Which Apples Are Best for Baking?

Whether you’re making an apple pie, apple muffins, or an apple cake, you’ll want fruit that holds its shape instead of cooking down to mush (although mush is ideal for applesauce and apple butter!). Choose apples known for their crisp, firm texture, like Honeycrisp, Jazz, Braeburn, Pink Lady, and Granny Smith. Gala, McIntosh, and Red Delicious apples soften too quickly during the baking process. For the tastiest results, use a mix of sweet and tart varieties in your baked goods.

OCTOBER

Calling All Coffee Lovers

October 1 is International Coffee Day, but you don’t have to travel beyond the Upper Valley for an excellent cup of joe. Lucky’s Coffee Garage in downtown Lebanon offers espresso, drip, nitro cold brew, and whole roasted beans from world-class coffee roasters from around the country. Enjoy a cup just how you like it along with a freshly baked treat. Or pick up a bag of beans from Upper Valley Coffee Roasters and brew a cup at home. Since 2015, founders Andrea Franklin and Cal Lynes have been focusing on quality and a commitment to supporting sustainability, contributing to the local economy, and providing access and education about coffees from around the world. You’ll find freshly roasted beans at locations throughout the region, including the Lyme Country Store, Jake’s in Enfield, the Coop Food Stores, and Dan & Whit’s in Norwich.

Fun Facts about Coffee

1. Coffee was discovered in Ethiopia by a legendary goat herder named Kaldi around 750 AD. He discovered the profound caffeinated effects of coffee when he noticed his goats dancing around after eating coffee berries.

2. There are 129 different species of coffee trees, but only two are produced at scale (Arabica and Robusta).

3. Darker roast coffee has less caffeine than lighter roast. Even though the flavor is often stronger, roasting actually burns off some of the caffeine.

4. Coffee stays warmer when you add cream. Coffee with added cream cools about 20 percent slower than plain black coffee. But when you add milk, it weakens the effects of caffeine.

Source: www.verenastreet.com/blogs/all-about-coffee

GET ORGANIZED!

The season for entertaining is around the corner, so now’s the perfect time to get organized—in fact, the first week of October is officially Get Organized Week. Before you plan your Thanksgiving table setting or haul out the holiday décor, declutter before your home fills with guests.

• Edit your everyday décor. Whether you add seasonal decorations to your existing items or swap one style for the other, donate décor that isn’t working with your space or that you just don’t love anymore.

• Declutter your coat closet to make space for guests’ coats. Warm winter coats and heavy hooded sweatshirts can be donated to the Upper Valley Haven. Visit uppervalleyhaven.org for more information. Be sure to add several empty hangers to your closet.

• If you have kids, sort through toys and clothes in anticipation of them receiving new items. Toss broken toys and donate toys and gently worn outgrown clothes.

• Take stock of your serving items. Keep what you’ll need for holiday entertaining and toss or donate any platters, serving bowls, and table linens that you no longer use or that have seen better days. LISTEN Thrift Stores accept dishes and glassware, kitchen utensils, and laundered linens. For a complete list, visit listencs.org.

OCTOBER

Cedar Circle Farm Pumpkin Festival

Fall is pumpkin season, and Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center’s 20th annual Pumpkin Festival on October 12 in East Thetford, Vermont, is a great way to celebrate. The farm is open that day from 10am to 3pm, with food from the farm’s kitchen and outside vendors, live music, an enchanted forest area featuring games and interactive crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides, and even a raptor visit from VINS! Of course, a highlight of the day is pumpkin picking. With access to the farm’s pick-your-own organic pumpkin patch, guests can delight in picking however many pumpkins they’d like—payment is calculated by weight. To learn more, visit cedarcirclefarm.org/pumpkin-festival.

PICK THE PERFECT PUMPKIN

How do you know when a pumpkin is ready for harvest?

1. Color: Look for a deep orange color.

2. Give it a thump: Knock on the pumpkin to check that it’s hollow.

3. Hard skin: Gently push your thumbnail into the skin. It should dent it but not puncture it.

4. A hard stem: When a pumpkin is ripe, the stem is hard.

5. Check the bottom: Make sure it’s not

ART APPRECIATION

The Upper Valley boasts several excellent art museums, so plan to check one out on November 9, Go to an Art Museum Day. AVA Gallery and Art Center at 11 Bank Street in Lebanon hosts several exhibitions as well as vibrant artist studios and educational programming for artists of all ages and abilities. It hosts special community events that foster interaction between artists, patrons of the arts, and the general public. Visit avagallery.org for more info. The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibitions plus a full calendar of lectures, tours, and community events. Its collections are among the oldest and largest of any college or university in the country, and they’re drawn from a broad range of cultures and historical periods. Visit hoodmuseum.dartmouth.edu to learn more.

THE BEST CRANBERRY SAUCE

Cranberry sauce doesn’t have to be fancy. In fact, the most delicious sauce is the simplest.

1. Combine a 12-ounce bag of fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if you’re using frozen), one cup sugar, and one cup of water in a medium saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil and cook until the cranberries pop and get soft and jammy, stirring frequently (this should take about 10 minutes).

3. Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.

You can add orange zest, fresh ginger, or a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg if you wish, but cranberries’ natural tart, sweet flavor is the perfect complement to a Thanksgiving meal.

Did You Know?

November’s birthstone is the topaz, usually a yellow to amber color. The ancient Egyptians said that topaz was colored by the golden glow of the sun god Ra, giving this gem the power to protect against harm. The ancient Greeks believed that topaz could increase strength and make the one who wears it invisible in times of danger. In India, wearing topaz above the heart was thought to guarantee a long life and intelligence. During the Renaissance, it was said that wearing a topaz amulet on the left arm would protect the wearer from dark magic.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY

On November 23, 1963, The Doctor stepped inside the TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension In Space), a time machine and spacecraft, for the first time. Few knew what to expect from Doctor Who the Radio Times billed the show as “an adventure in space and time.” While the series was originally intended to appeal to a family audience as an educational program using time travel to explore famous moments in history, audiences loved to watch The Doctor, a rogue Time Lord who fled the planet Gallifrey, and his companions battle robots, monsters, and other creatures in England or the far reaches of space, so the series eventually took a more sci-fi approach with its storylines. The original Doctor was played by William Hartnell until 1966, when the show revealed that Time Lords had the ability to regenerate themselves when near death. According to the BBC, there have officially been 16 incarnations of The Doctor, allowing the series to continue through the decades. Doctor Who is listed in Guinness World Records as the longest-running science-fiction television series in the world. y

SEASON’S BEST

BY DANA JOHNSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CPERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Autumn in ENFIELD

meet charming characters all over town

The town of Enfield, New Hampshire, has been greeting visitors and residents alike with homemade “scarecrow people” for the past dozen years. You’ll find them hanging out at businesses, leaning on fences, and checking out the Rail Trail. The figures, numbering about 120, are displayed from September 15 until October 30.

The project is undertaken every year by the Enfield Village Association (EVA). “We have no dues at EVA,” says Julie Eckerd, president. “We’re all volunteers coming together for our community.” The scarecrows (although there’s nothing scary about them) are matched to their locations, Julie says. “We might have a mail carrier at the post office and a skier at the ski shop.” According to Julie, Linda Zoller-McKibbin is the creative force behind this project and others.

“We refurbish the scarecrows in late August or early September,” Linda says. “They are mostly made from recycled materials—blown-down sticks from the woods for the skeleton, a milk jug for the head, feed bags for the trunk, and plastic grocery bags and newspapers to stuff them with.” The Enfield Methodist Church’s Thrift Store donates the clothing. For more information about EVA and volunteering, contact Julie Eckert at jdecke@yahoo.com. y

COMMUNITY

BY EDITH MORGAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DMITRIY KIM

Last year, 600 community members attended the Upper Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s and raised $184,278. The annual walk exceeded its financial goal and, with 100 more walkers than the previous year, its participation goal as well. To accommodate that success, the walk is moving from Hanover to its new home in Lebanon, starting and ending at Colburn Park and weaving through local businesses and neighborhoods along the way.

Top from left: Walkers hold up flowers that identify how they have been touched by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Walk as an individual or a team. Rowers take to the river for the cause. Dogs and wheels are welcome. It’s all smiles on a feelgood day.

Bottom from left: Leah Farley speaks about living with Alzheimer’s. A sea of flowers at the ceremonial send-off.

The fun, free, familyfriendly walk is at 9am on Sunday, October 26, in Colburn Park.

ON THE MOVE

“Watching this event grow year after year has been nothing short of inspiring,” says walk manager Lucy Moore. “We’ve built a community so strong and full of heart that we’ve outgrown our previous venue and now we’re stepping into a new chapter. It’s a beautiful reminder of how far we’ve come, and the powerful impact we’re making together.”

Raising Awareness

The Upper Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s is one of 600 similar walks throughout the country that happen every fall. They are the Alzheimer’s Association’s largest event to raise awareness and funds. The organization provides no-cost care, support and education programs, and funds research to prevent, treat, and one day cure Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Top from left: Face painting and festivities at the start. Rowers wrap up the Row to End Alzheimer’s.

Above from left: Team Andy celebrates a record-breaking fundraising year. Purple represents someone who has lost someone to Alzheimer’s.

Walkers fill the memory wall with cards honoring those who inspired them.

The investment is working! Results just in from the US POINTER study—a two-year clinical trial in diverse populations across the United States—showed that a combination of diet, exercise, heart-healthy behaviors, cognitive challenges, and social engagement can protect cognitive function to reduce lifetime dementia risk. This is excellent news for the more than 40,000 people in New Hampshire and Vermont currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the many more who have not been diagnosed, and the family and community members who bear the emotional, financial, and physical impact of the disease.

Go Purple!

In the lead up to the walk, local people, teams, and businesses will again show their support by “Going Purple.” Look for walk signs, purple decorations and window displays, purple product offerings, and purple fashion statements. Fundraising and awareness-raising events include:

• The Power of Words: Finding Community in the Dementia Journey and “Going Purple” at the Woodstock Library on October 14 at 6pm.

• Connections: A Celebration of Creativity, Communication, and Community. This exhibit of paintings created by local people living with dementia is on display at the Kilton Library in West Lebanon through October 30.

• A Moment in T ime, a traveling art exhibit created by Vermont people living with dementia, is on display at the Bugbee Senior Center in White River Junction in October.

The fun, free, family-friendly walk is at 9am on Sunday, October 26, in Colburn Park. For more info on the latest events plus how to volunteer and register, go to act.alz.org/uppervalley. y

IT’S A FACT

The first recorded descent of Mount Mansfield on skis, in 1914, was by Upper Valley resident Nathaniel Goodrich, the Dartmouth College librarian.

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1859, the University of Vermont purchased the highest two miles (400 acres) of Mount Mansfield’s summit ridge, which it has used for collaborative environmental studies and stewardship programs. Today, researchers monitor the air, soil, flora, insects, amphibians, and water to understand how declining snowpack, warming temperatures, and other aspects of climate change impact both the alpine ecosystem and the land below.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA BALLARD

TOP OF VERMONT

MOUNT MANSFIELD FROM EVERY DIRECTION

SUNSET RIDGE SIDE

The author, on her first ascent of Mount Mansfield, approaches the summit via the Sunset Ridge Trail.

I’ve always had a hankering to hike the highest peaks.

In the Northeast, those iconic summits include Mount Washington in New Hampshire, Mount Marcy in New York, Mount Greylock in Massachusetts, Mount Katahdin in Maine, and Mount Mansfield in Vermont. I remember each of these mountaintops well, especially Mount Mansfield. My earliest memory skiing in Vermont was at a junior race on Mount Mansfield at the Stowe Mountain Resort on the east side of the mountain when I was 13 years old. Since then, I’ve made countless runs down Stowe’s legendary trails, like Nose Dive and National, but it took another 30 years before I had the chance to stand on the summit. The ski area does not go to the top.

In 2004, while working on my first hiking guidebook, Best Hikes with Dogs: New Hampshire and Vermont, I called one of my hiking pals, Lucinda, in Shelburne, Vermont, to get her opinion on the best way to hike up Mount Mansfield. The mountain can be approached from the north and east via the Long Trail, the north via the Hellbrook Trail, and the west by the Sunset Ridge, Laura Cowles, and Maple Ridge Trails. You can hike up a ski run to the Cliff House, the top terminal of the ski area’s highest gondola, then continue to the summit on the Cliff Trail. Or you can drive up the Toll Road to The Nose, then hike the last 2.4 miles to The Chin, the true summit of Mansfield. When viewed from the side, Mount Mansfield has the profile of a giant’s face, lying with The Forehead to the south and The Adam’s Apple to the north.

Without hesitation, Lucinda suggested going up the Sunset Ridge Trail, which starts at Underhill State Park. “It’s my favorite way up the mountain,” she insisted. “The views are fantastic all the way up the ridge, and it’s dog friendly.”

SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL

On the appointed day, we met at Underhill State Park and began our 3.4-mile climb. Just after halfway and still below the tree line, Lucinda led me on a short detour to see Cantilever Rock, a long, narrow rock that jabs an astounding 25 feet from the top of a cliff into the air parallel to the ground. Left behind 10,000 years ago when the last ice age receded, it seems to defy gravity, but I dared not stand directly under it, nor could I take my eyes off it. “Don’t worry. It’s not going to land on you,” teased Lucinda. “If it has lasted this long, it probably won’t fall today.”

We continued upward, passing two boulders that were likely one larger boulder many years ago. A stream flowed from the matching walls of the crack between them. A short while later, we passed a cave with another stream flowing out of it. Here we had a choice: walk through the cave but get our feet wet or go around it. We opted for dry feet.

SHELBURNE FARMS,

SKI AREA SIDE

LONG TRAIL SIDE

BEHIND THE NAME?

No one really knows how Mount Mansfield was named. Some say it was originally called Mozôdebiwajok, which means Moosehead Mountain in Abenaki. Apparently, the local Abenaki thought the profile of the mountain more closely resembled a moose than a sleeping giant.

Another version of the native story says it was named after the Abenaki Chief Moosalamoo, whose name was anglicized to Mansfield, but there were other Mansfields who may have lent their surname to the mountain.

Some say Mount Mansfield is named after a town in Connecticut founded by a Moses Mansfield. As people from Mansfield, Connecticut, migrated to Mansfield, Vermont, they discovered it too mountainous for farming. The township was never incorporated. It was eventually split between Underhill and Stowe, but the mountain kept the name.

Another theory says the mountain honors British Chief Justice Lord Mansfield. During the mid-1700s, Lord Mansfield gave what’s now Vermont to colonial New Hampshire instead of New York. As a thank you, New Hampshire governor Benning Wentworth named the mountain after Lord Mansfield.

Or maybe the mountain was named for Colonel John Mansfield, one of the first white men to explore the area during the 1700s.

The view to the north past Dewey Mountain while climbing the upper ledges of Mount Mansfield via the Long Trail from Smugglers’ Notch.

Soon after the cave, we broke from the trees onto the exposed slabby Sunset Ridge. The Chin was above us. We paused to take in the expansive views of the Adirondacks behind us and the west side of the chain of Green Mountains to our left and right. The panorama was so spectacular that the ridge could have been a destination in its own right, but the summit called to us. We kept going, eventually turning north on the Long Trail for the final stretch to the summit.

The Long Trail winds 272 miles from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian border along the spine of the Green Mountains. Mount Mansfield is certainly one of the highlights of the Long Trail with its expansive 250-acre alpine zone, by far the largest patch of alpine tundra in Vermont. It was a gorgeous day, clear and free of haze. As we walked on the slabby trail past mountain sandwort, endangered diapensia, and shrubby Labrador tea, we could see into Canada to the north, the Worcester Range across the Stowe Valley, and much farther to the White Mountains in New Hampshire to the east. Lake Champlain, framed by the High Peaks region of the Adirondacks, glistened to the west. It felt good to stand on the top of Vermont, 4,395 feet above sea level.

LONG TRAIL SOUTH

The next time I climbed Mount Mansfield, I was working on another guidebook, Hiking the Green Mountains. I decided to ascend the mountain via the Long Trail from Smugglers’ Notch because it was a relatively short route, only 2.3 miles to The Chin, and I needed to check it out for the book.

Mileage can be deceiving. The route climbed 2,800 feet! The trail felt vertical from the first step. Leaving the trailhead, it was fairly smooth underfoot, crossing a number of seasonal streams, then it turned to slab and chunks of ledge. Luckily it was a dry day, so the rock was grippy, not slippery. A half mile from the top, I stopped at Taft Lodge, a hikers’ shelter that’s available first come, first served. No one was there.

Just beyond Taft Lodge, the Profanity Trail departed to the left. For through-hikers on the Long Trail, this is the summit to bypass in case of bad weather, perhaps so named because of the foul language that one might utter for missing the chance to stand atop this famous mountain after the steep climb to get there.

My day was fair, so I continued upward, taking in the view. A little farther up the rough trail I could see ski trails and the summit ridge. Then the Worcester Range and the White Mountains came into view. There was a short reprieve, then more scrambling up boulders and bedrock. I finally reached The Chin, ate lunch, and steeled myself for the steep descent. When I reached my car, I was exhausted physically from the exertion of the climb and mentally from navigating ledge after ledge, yet I was also elated for the chance to stand atop

Top left: The long, exposed ascent to The Chin via the Sunset Ridge has spectacular views of the Champlain Valley.

Top right: Cantilever Rock defies gravity just below tree line on the Sunset Ridge Trail.

Below, left to right: View of the ski trails at Stowe Mountain Resort from the summit. A hiker ascends the Long Trail. Rare Labrador tea (top) and mountain sandwort (bottom) growing in the alpine zone on Mount Mansfield.

Vermont again. It had been a challenging way up, but worth every step.

CLIFF TRAIL

Since ascending via the Long Trail, I had hiked up Mount Mansfield a number of times, exploring each of its routes, but one remained on my to-do list: the Cliff Trail. Last June I finally got the chance while in Stowe for a reunion of pro ski racers. One of the planned activities was a gondola ride to the Cliff House for a jaw-dropping view and an adult beverage in the bar.

“Anyone want to hike up instead of riding the gondola?” I asked the posse of former athletes, who were now in their 60s and 70s. There were no takers. Undeterred, I parked my car at the base of the gondola, donned my pack and hiking boots, and trekked up a gravel work road that doubled as a hiking trail during the summer. It followed the gondola, zigzagging 2.8 miles up the ski trails Gondolier and Perry Merrill. When

I reached the Cliff House, a few of the former ski racers were just returning from the summit. After riding up the gondola, they decided to hike the last 1.3 miles to the top. “It’s steep,” said one racer. “It’s more of a rock climb,” said another. “Go for it!” urged a third. “You’re half mountain goat.”

Given my desire to explore and ongoing need to stand on top of mountains, I departed the Cliff House for the summit. It was rough from the start and near vertical up a rock pile. I stopped to wait for several people who struggled up a narrow rock wall then through a “keyhole,” a short rock passage formed by several large boulders that had wedged themselves into a roughhewn window.

My turn. I started up the rocks, which would normally have been a fun challenge, but this was not a normal day for me. Nursing a dislocated finger on my left hand, I couldn’t grip the rock securely, and torn cartilage in my right knee—an

old ski injury—prevented me from fully bending my knee, a move I needed to make to get through the keyhole. Surprised and disappointed by my physical snafus, I turned back. It was the first time that one of my summit quests had been foiled, but Mansfield’s giant was not keen to have me on his chin that day.

Mount Mansfield is a hulk of a mountain that’s not particularly long as a hike, but it’s no gimme. It’s the highest summit in Vermont, and like all big mountains, sometimes it’s welcoming and sometimes it’s not. As my hand and knee heal, I’ll try to ascend via the Cliff Trail again. There are many interesting ways to reach the top of this landmark peak, and for this avid hiker, it doesn’t feel right to leave one undone. y

For More Information

Hiking the Green Mountains, 3rd Edition (FalconGuides, 2022)

The Green Mountain Club: greenmountainclub.org

The historic Livery in Sunapee Harbor building stands proudly above the Sugar River.

GOOD NEIGHBORS BY SUSAN NYE PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN RAYMOND

THE LIVERY in Sunapee Harbor

PRESERVING HISTORY, FOSTERING THE ARTS, AND BUILDING COMMUNITY

Built more than 100 years ago, The Livery is a link to the days of grand lakeside hotels with croquet on the lawn, tea dances on the terrace, and genteel boating in the harbor. Before interstate highways connected urban centers to Sunapee, vacationers traveled north by train. The last leg of the journey was usually completed by steamboat. For vacationers looking to explore the area, The Livery offered horses and carriages for hire. While a few historic homes and cottages remain, the grand hotels are gone and The Livery is Sunapee’s last large commercial structure from the steamboat era. It stands as both a reminder of a bygone era and a testament to the future.

A BUILDING WORTH SAVING

Throughout its long life, versatility has been the key operating word for The Livery. The massive four-story structure began its ever-changing life as the stable for the long since gone Harbor House Hotel. After the automobile changed the way people traveled and vacationed, the town of Sunapee purchased and renovated the building. Over the years, it has housed the fire and police departments and town hall. At one point, it was on the list of possible sites for the new library.

Top from left: A tour on Sunapee Cruises’ MV Mt. Sunapee is a wonderful way to see Lake Sunapee. The Sugar River Heritage Trail wends its way past The Livery along the historic Sugar River. The barn quilts on the retaining wall to the right were made by community members and are just one example of the community programs hosted by Sunapee Heritage Alliance (SHA) at The Livery.

Bottom from left: The Carriage Shed is used for community programs and is perfect for a wedding or baby shower.

Flowers adorn the Harborside Trading building where Sunapee clothing abounds. The Blue Canoe restaurant is a wonderful addition to the harbor.

Project Sunapee

The nonprofit organization works throughout the year to strengthen the community, encourage economic vitality, support education, and preserve the town’s cultural, historic, and scenic assets. Find more information at projectsunapee.org.

New Hampshire Preservation Alliance

Since 2006, more than 100 historic landmarks have joined the annual Seven to Save lists and more than half have been saved. Learn more at nhpreservation.org.

Plan New Hampshire

The nonprofit works with communities to foster excellence in planning, design, and development. Learn more at plannh.org.

Northern Border Regional Commission

This federal-state partnership supports economic and community development with grants in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York. Find more information at nbrc.gov.

Clockwise from below: A view of the covered walking bridge from The Riverside Room in The Livery. The covered bridge brings visitors across the Sugar River to The Livery and toward all the activity in the harbor. The Ben Mere bandstand marks the site of the old Ben Mere hotel and now hosts music during the weekly Farmers’ Market in the summer. The Sugar River has supported industry in the past and now serves as a place for recreation and reflection.

The building’s future became uncertain when the last Town of Sunapee tenant, the police department, moved out in 2005. There was talk of tearing it down. Recognizing The Livery’s historical significance, a small group of concerned citizens stepped forward and formed The Harbor House Livery Committee.

To help protect the building’s future, the committee secured a place for it on the State Historical Register and won a spot on the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance’s Seven to Save list. In 2007, the nonprofit Plan New Hampshire agreed to facilitate a charette to study the future of Sunapee Harbor with significant focus on The Livery. The charette concluded that the building could and should be saved through a combination of nonprofit and commercial goals and use.

Sharon Parsons and Barbara Sullivan were on the original Harbor House Livery Committee. Sharon says, “I love the history of it, we all do. The Livery has a wonderful story, one that needs to be shared and continued. We wanted to save it—and we did!” Barbara adds, “As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to be involved. It’s a fabulous piece of history.” Both Sharon and Barbara urge visitors to check out the steep circular ramp that was built to move horses up and down the four-storied building. In its heyday, 30 horses were kept at The Livery. “We’ve made inquiries throughout New England and, so far, the ramp appears to be one of a kind,” Barbara says.

TAKING IT A STEP FURTHER

With Sunapee’s 250th birthday looming in 2018, The Harbor House Livery Committee took the next step and created Sunapee Heritage Alliance. A nonprofit 501(c)3 charitable organization, SHA took over The Livery in 2015. Their mission focuses on preserving and revitalizing Sunapee’s cultural and architectural heritage and building community. Thanks to SHA and their generous supporters and volunteers, The Livery has new life and purpose.

A grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission in 2020 was a major turning point for the organization. The $350,000 grant allowed the SHA to rebuild The Livery’s foundation and underpinnings. Completed in late 2021, the massive building was secure and

spaces on all four floors could be used for a wide variety of events.

The organization’s board of directors’ passion for the project is infectious. From day one, they have worked tirelessly at repairing and maintaining the building and filling it with interesting programs. They are driven by their love of history and their community. “From the start we have been careful and considerate in our approach,” says Barbara. “We want to be respectful of the building’s history and the needs and wants of the community.”

BRINGING NEIGHBORS TOGETHER

The results are impressive. Throughout the year, The Livery and its partners are busy with community events, performances, and art shows. With a variety of different spaces,

it is ideal for large and small exhibitions, performances, parties, meetings, and classes. From the Center for the Arts’ Naturally New England art show in the summer to The Livery’s own Dinner and Music Series in winter, the four floors buzz with activity.

Board member Maria Fair shares some highlights: “The Livery holds one fundraiser a year, the Harvest Dinner in late September. Local farmers, butchers, and chefs work together to provide a delicious community meal. Moving on to October—anyone wanting to do some early Christmas shopping will enjoy the Art of Craft Fair over the long holiday weekend.” She continues, “We’re proud to help the Sunapee Middle and High School Service Club with their Empty Bowls Dinner and Music

Above and below: The Livery’s Main Hall decorated for a wedding reception. The Main Hall is the site of Friday Nights at The Livery, which hosts concerts and other entertainment.

An artist speaks of his works during the Center for the Arts’ Naturally New England art show at The Livery.

in November. This wonderful event brings neighbors together to raise money for the Sunapee Food Pantry.”

While Project Sunapee takes the lead on many harbor activities, “The Livery is always willing to participate,” according to Maria. They host preregistration and bib pickup as well as the PTO Pie Sale at the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. The building opens its doors for visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as cookie decorating for Sunapee Christmas Village in mid-December.

Ever attuned to the needs of the community, the board encourages everyone to share ideas for events or classes. Maria says, “We welcome new ideas for community and group events, large and small. Want to form a knitting circle, organize a writers’ group, or start a monthly line dance? We are here to help you make it happen.” Barbara adds, “But we couldn’t do any of it without our wonderful volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We are so grateful to live in this beautiful place surrounded by generous neighbors.”

A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO GATHER

In addition to activities hosted by The Livery and its partners, the building is available to rent for private events. Renters can choose between individual spaces or rent all four floors. With the ceremony down by the river, dinner in the Main Hall, and dancing in the Stable, a wedding can take over the entire building. Local instructors deliver yoga and crafts classes in the cozy Carriage Shed. For a feeling of the outdoors, the Riverside level is perfect for fall, spring, and summer celebrations and activities. The versatility of this wonderful old building as a gathering place for townspeople and visitors is unmatched.

While The Livery is SHA’s first project, it is not last. They recently purchased the Woodbine Cottage property. While the old restaurant is gone, three smaller buildings remain, and SHA is strategizing their next steps with the property. y

The Livery & Sunapee Heritage Alliance 58 Main Street, Sunapee, NH thelivery.org, sunapeeheritage.org

The Elms Restaurant and Bar at The New London Inn

353 Main Street

New London, NH (603) 526-2791

www.TheElmsRestaurant.com

Tue–Sun, Bar 4–10pm, Dining 5–9pm

Busy Women Wellness, LLC

Holistic Health Practitioner & Spiritual Spine Straightening 11 Pleasant Street New London, NH (603) 748-5559

www.busywomenwellness.com

Hours by Appointment

Optometrist on Premises

255 Newport Road Unit E New London, NH (603) 526-6990 Tue, Thu, Fri 9am–5pm Sat 9am–12pm

Carol Shepherd

120 Route 10 South Grantham, NH (603) 863-3278

www.sheprealty.com

75 Newport Road New London, NH (603) 526-2727 Hugo Anderson MFA Artist/Curator 23 Jenny Lane New London, NH (310) 266-9904

www.hugoanderson.com

Images available on website Represented by Candita Clayton Gallery

9 Newport Road New London, NH (603) 748-3011

www.alleyesonyounh.com

Follow us on instagram alleyesonyounh

Hubert’s Family Outfitters

219 County Road  New London, NH (603) 526-4032

www.Huberts.com  Mon–Fri 9:30am–6pm Sat 9am–6pm Sun 10am–4pm

Floorcraft

231 NH Route 11 Wilmot, NH (603) 526-2600

www.FloorcraftNH.com Mon–Fri 8am–5pm Sat 8am–1pm

Foster’s Fine Jewelry

428 Main Street

New London, NH (603) 252-0543

Text Angela Thu & Fri 10am–4pm, Sat 10am–2pm

Or by appointment

Ear Piercing, Jewelry Repairs, Redesign New and Estate Jewelry

Bark N Bath Pet Spa

Dog Grooming & Self-Serve Wash Boutique

374 Main Street

New London, NH (603) 526-2150

Mon–Fri 9am–4pm

barknbathpetspa@gmail.com

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Millstone at 74 Main

74 Newport Road

New London, NH (603) 526-4201

www.74MainRestaurant.com

Mon–Sat 11:30am–9pm Sun 11am–9pm, Brunch 11am–2pm

Dr. Alla Devitskaya Personalized Medical Optometry

255 Newport Road, Unit E New London (603) 526-6990

24 Hanover Street, Unit 3 Lebanon, NH (603) 349-8787

75 Newport Road Suite 101

New London, NH (603) 526-2397

Cell (603) 748-5782 www.SunapeeShade.com

The Hair Station Full Service Salon the Gallery at 276 Newport Road

New London, NH (603) 526-8056

Visit us on Facebook @theHairStation

Mon–Fri 8am–7pm, Sat 9am–4pm

New England Beauty & Wellness

New London–Lebanon, NH (603) 877-0070 www.newenglandbeautyandwellness.com

By appointment only

Andover Road

New London, NH (603) 526-6899

www.flyinggoose.com Family friendly dining Serving lunch & dinner daily!

Sunapee Shade and Blind

(603) 526-2400 flashphotonh.com digital@flashphotonh.com

Design, Printing, Packing & Shipping & More!

New London Shopping Center 257 Newport Road New London, NH (603) 526-2910

www.tatewellgallery.com

Tue–Fri 10:30am–5:30pm, Sat 10:30am–4pm

977-0194

www.refinerynh.com Wed–Sat 12–9pm

Hill Bookstore 253 Main Street New London, NH (603) 526-5850

www.MorganHillBookstore.com

Mon–Fri 9am–5:30pm Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 11am–3pm

873-4833

www.TheOakRoomNH.com Wed–Sat 5–8:30pm

Lake

© Lenny Christopher

TRACY HUTCHINS: From UVBA to B & B

MEET THE NEW PROPRIETOR OF THE HISTORIC COLONEL SPENCER INN

Running a historic bed and breakfast nestled in the hills of New England is a dream come true for Tracy Hutchins and her partner Jim Hall. At the end of June, the couple became the proprietors of the charming 1764 Colonel Spencer Inn in Campton, New Hampshire. Together they bring their special kind of hospitality, elegant style, and delicious locally sourced breakfasts to their guests, making them feel right at home.

BY ANNE RICHTER ARNOLD 6 PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN RAYMOND

Tracy’s background has given her a unique perspective on running a bed and breakfast. After serving New Hampshire communities (two downtown revitalization organizations, three chambers of commerce), she is very familiar with tourism in New Hampshire and welcoming visitors to the region.

She started as the president of the Hanover Chamber of Commerce in 2017 and when the Hanover and Lebanon Chambers decided to merge, she was brought along to serve as the director of the new organization. The Upper Valley Business Alliance (UVBA) was formed, an involved process because the boards of both chambers wanted to acknowledge the communities they served equally. Merging all the data and members as well as legacy programs while trying to reassure all the members was a considerable amount of work.

When forming UVBA, the two boards discussed creating an organization that focused on economic development and being a liaison between businesses, nonprofits, and local government, as well as being a voice for our region in Concord and Montpelier. Much of Tracy’s time with UVBA was making sure that the Upper Valley was represented, whether it was with the New Hampshire Business and Economic Affairs, Travel & Tourism, or other economic organizations.

“My job, and I think my greatest accomplishment,” says Tracy, “was to be a connector. Whether it was connecting our local businesses to each other or to government or assistance programs, I was fortunate to work with many partners and hopefully provide the answers and assistance so our businesses could thrive.”

Tracy shares more about her venture into hospitality.

How did your role at the UVBA prepare you for transiting to hospitality?

The UVBA really is the boots-on-the-ground tourism organization for the region. We support so many tourism-related businesses that I have worked closely with over the years. For visitors to the state and this area, we are one of the first stops. My chamber background and especially the UVBA gave me great insight into New Hampshire tourism, its trends, its seasonality, and its challenges.

Did you always want to be an innkeeper or is this a new passion?

Yes, it was at the back of my mind for years; one of those “that would be nice to do one day” kind of things. I met my partner Jim Hall about a year ago, and having a bed and breakfast somehow came up in conversation. He said he’d always wanted to do that too, so he started bringing me listings of inns for sale. At first I thought it was a nice dream and it was fun to see the listings, but I figured we probably would never really do anything. While I was curious and wanted to see some of the listings, I told him, “You know I’m never going to do this.” I loved my job at Upper Valley Business Alliance. I was living close to my father and helping him. I really didn’t take it seriously.

How did this come about?

When Jim showed me the listing for the Colonel Spencer, which he loved, we decided to take a look. It was not that far from where I was living in Orange, New Hampshire. We went to see it with an agent, and we both loved it. We walked out, looked at each other, and said we could see ourselves there.

located

a serene setting. The sitting room has an original fireplace that was once painted black to honor the passing of George Washington. Breakfast is served to guests in the sunroom, added on in the 1980s. Fresh flowers in a Simon Pearce vase, a parting gift from the UVBA board of directors, welcome guests. The dining room is one of the original rooms of the house.

Clockwise from top left: The welcoming inn is

in

Even so, I was still a little on the fence, but when we reviewed the financials, they were solid. We read the guest reviews, and they were great. I did a lot of hard thinking. I had gone as far as I could with UVBA, so we decided to take the leap and put in an offer.

All this happened rather quickly, then?

Very. We first saw the inn in March and put in an offer the night before leaving for a tour in Ireland. Not the best idea to manage negotiating a real estate deal from across the Atlantic! We closed on June 30. It was a smooth but complicated process. I owned a house in Orange; Jim owned his in Gilmanton, and we had to sell both houses to buy the inn. The previous owners of the inn were great! They knew we loved the property and were willing to give us the leeway to get all the transactions and multiple steps going.

Why did you decide on the Colonel Spencer Inn?

The special experience for the guests was the one thing that attracted us to the property most of all. The feeling that the prior owners established, and we very much want to continue, is one of true hospitality. Beautiful historical lodgings, an excellent breakfast, a comfortable, casual ambiance that says “make yourself at home”—that’s what drew us in.

With my chamber background, I was looking at it not just as a home but also as a business. It checked all the boxes. Being right on Route 3 just a few miles from Plymouth, close to Waterville Valley skiing, close to Lincoln—businesswise it is in an excellent location. Situated in the center of three seasons of activities, I knew it was a good choice. And there was a proven history of bookings and repeat, satisfied guests.

Can you share a bit of history about the inn?

The Colonel Spencer Inn was built in 1764 and is one of the oldest homes in Campton. It is named for one of its early owners, Colonel Joseph Spencer, who served in the French and Indian Wars and the Revolutionary War.

Alan and Carolyn Hill of Campton bought the inn at auction in the 1980s. It was empty and derelict. It took them 14 months to fix it up and make it an inn. They added the bathrooms—there was only one in the owners’ quarters and it was basically nonfunctional.

There are many of the early colonial features in the house: wide pine floors, antique fireplaces, and Indian shutters. The house has retained a lot of its character over the years, thanks to good renovations that have maintained its authenticity.

One interesting fact is that the house was also once on an underground railroad. The dining room has a panel next to the fireplace that can be removed to access a space where runaway enslaved people could hide.

Opposite top and bottom: Tracy and partner Jim Hall relax at the firepit with Cooper, the inn’s official greeter. Guests can relax outside at the firepit or play a round of cornhole.

Clockwise from left: The Baker Room features a four poster queen bed and fireplace. Breakfast is a homemade three-course meal. The Holmes Room features twin beds. The Blair Room is a large room with a queen bed. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms.

You downsized quite a bit. How is it going from a home to innkeepers’ quarters?

It is a challenge to downsize from two houses to 700 square feet owners’ quarters. The inn never really shut down for more than one week for the previous owners to move out and us to transition. We had just five days to move in before the first guests arrived.

We have added our own personal touches and items to the living room and dining room. Jim is a book collector and has 1,500. We added bookcases to public areas, especially New Hampshire–related books and antique field guides for hikers. Over the years I’ve accumulated so many things and I’ve shared items with my two daughters in St. Louis. But Jim and I are still working on downsizing and have three storage units we are emptying out slowly.

How has the transition from working with hospitality businesses to running your own inn been?

It has been exciting, like drinking from the fire hose. So far it has been quite full and busy. The inn had bookings for months out thanks to the previous owners, many repeat guests. It is not a huge leap to become an owner-operator in the tourism industry after working adjacent for so many years. The biggest difference is that I am doing the breakfasts and managing the inn, as well as doing some consulting. Things have not changed much for Jim, as he has kept his job commuting to Somerville, Massachusetts.

From my chamber background I am very familiar with New Hampshire tourism; busy in the summer and fall, and in winter if there is good skiing.

What kind of experience do you aim to give your guests?

We want this to be a home away from home and for people to come back and visit us again. From the comfortable, period-appointed rooms to the inviting common areas and our fantastic breakfasts made with local ingredients, we want each guest to have a stay that is memorable. y

Colonel Spencer Inn

3 Colonel Spencer Road Campton, NH (603) 536-1755

colonelspencerbb.com

BY DEAN WHITLOCK 6 PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATA S. SASVARI

LOOK GOOD, SEE WELL, PAY LESS

FIND THE PERFECT FRAMES AND

EXCELLENT SERVICE AT EYEGLASS

OUTLET

Karen Griffiths Helin was born and raised in the Upper Valley. She graduated from Lebanon High School and Colby-Sawyer College and has worked in local businesses since she was a teenager. That’s one reason why she’s on a first-name basis with so many of the people who come to her optical shop, Eyeglass Outlet, on the mall in Lebanon. Another reason is that she enjoys helping people, and they quickly learn to call her simply Karen. “It’s nice to have a shop where I recognize people who come in,” she says, “and they recognize me and often already appreciate our level of service and cost awareness.”

A CAREER OF HELPING PEOPLE

It’s her own appreciation of people that drew Karen to her career as an optician. Her first jobs out of college were in sales and secretarial positions, but she found them unsatisfying. Then a friend pointed out a help-wanted ad for a beginning optician at a local eye care provider. The chance to work directly with patients intrigued her and she decided

Below from top: Find your perfect pair of sunglasses in the store. Karen checks the prescription of the lenses received from her lab. Eyeglass Outlet offers a wide variety of frames to suit any budget.

Left: The store is conveniently located on the walk-on mall in Lebanon.

to apply. “After the interview, the owner said, ‘I can either hire someone for their experience or for their personality,’” she relates with a smile, “and that’s what he did.”

Karen learned the ropes quickly and, after a couple years of gaining experience, was able to move to a more advanced position in the optical shop at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. When the hospital decided to close the shop, she went to work for Eyeglass Outlet, which had moved from West Lebanon to its current position in Lebanon more than 17 years ago.

SOMETHING FOR EVERY FACE AND BUDGET

In just a year, she was able to purchase the shop and has now owned Eyeglass Outlet for over 14 years, maintaining a friendly clientele of regular and occasional patients under the motto, “We promise to do all we can do to help you look good, see well, and pay less.” “It all just fell together,” she says.

Karen, who has needed glasses since childhood, knows just how difficult it can be to find the right combination of lens and frame, and then to get used to them. For example, transitioning from single vision to multifocal lenses (progressives) often takes some getting used to. Karen will work with the new wearer to help them make the adjustment smoothly.

But seeing well and looking good are separate issues, and both can be emotional at times. “You want to feel comfortable in your glasses,” Karen explains. “If you like round frames, for example, you should continue to wear round frames, but if you’re browsing styles to upgrade your look, I’d be happy to help you.” And she is very honest about whether a pair of frames is the right style for you: “I won’t let you leave with them if I don’t think they make you look good.”

Then there is the issue of cost. Karen stocks Eyeglass Outlet with a selection that ranges from very low-cost, flat-rate options to “very boutiquey” frames in a variety of styles for several lens shapes. In partnership with her

From top: Check out the wall choices as well as the round displays with even more frames to choose from, including premade readers and optical accessories. Karen is always ready to welcome customers.

OPTOMETRIST DR. ALLA DEVITSKAYA

Dr. Alla Devitskaya is a prime example of an immigrant who worked hard and achieved the American dream. When she came to the United States from Russia about 20 years ago, Dr. Devitskaya learned English, volunteered in an optometry office, and took prerequisite classes before being accepted to the New England College of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts, the AODP program for individuals with doctoral degrees. In 2012 she graduated as a Doctor of Optometry and joined a busy practice in Concord, New Hampshire, where she worked for almost a decade.

“It was a great learning and working experience!” she recalls. “I saw, diagnosed, and treated patients with challenging and complicated conditions like glaucoma, uveitis, corneal dystrophies, macular degeneration, cataracts, and many others.” She became proficient in refraction using an advanced digital refractive system, interpretation of visual field tests, and analyzing retinal imaging technology. “I am very grateful for having worked with so many wonderful patients who cared about their eye health,” she says.

She shared one case when, during a routine eye exam, she discovered pathology in the patient’s eyes and immediately referred them to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation. When the grateful patient returned to see her, she learned they had undergone brain surgery to remove a large tumor but were expected to recover completely. “Being able to save someone’s life through a routine eye exam is one of the most gratifying moments in my career,” she says.

While Karen and Dr. Alla Devitskaya knew each other before, they began working together last year to conveniently locate the optometry office next to Eyeglass Outlet.

Working in private practice since 2015, Dr. Devitskaya maintains her medical approach, emphasizing the importance of general health and the role of eye heath as a major diagnostic tool for many systemic diseases, particularly diabetes, hypertension, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and others. She educates her patients on how important it is to have regular comprehensive eye exams. “They are not just to update glasses or contact lenses prescriptions,” she says. “It could save someone’s vision or even save their life.”

Dr. Devitskaya is one of a few local optometrists contracted to perform eye examinations for disabled veterans from New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, and New York state. “Our veterans are an exceptional group of people, appreciative, smart, and kind, and they truly love our country. It is my honor to serve them. I feel I am doing very important work.”

husband Daniel Helin, an importer/distributor of eyeglass frames, she can even offer her own Karen Daniels line. “There’s something for any face and budget,” she says.

The length of time to get a new pair of glasses depends on the prescription and style of lens and generally ranges from a week to 10 days. Karen has outfitted an eyeglass lab behind the showroom where she does her own edging and fitting of lenses, so people who choose to use their current frame don’t need to be without their glasses for days.

“I’ll just call them when the lenses come in,” she explains. “Because I have my own lab, I can get a pair of single-vision glasses set up in about an hour.” And, no, there is no rush charge.

“It’s exciting for me to watch someone put on a new pair of glasses and see how beautiful or handsome they look. I love to help people feel happy,” she says, smiling again. “And I enjoy the conversations we have. I like to joke that my sign should say ‘The therapist is in’.” y

Eyeglass Outlet

24 Hanover Street (the Mall) Lebanon, NH (603) 448-0030

Karen has been a practing optician for 33 years.

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A third of the produce sold at UVFC comes from local growers, and nearly all the produce is organic.

BY MARY GOW 6 PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARS BLACKMORE

COMMUNITY COMES FIRST AT UPPER VALLEY FOOD CO-OP

good food, education, and the circular economy

At Upper Valley Food Co-op (UVFC) in White River Junction, a memberowned natural market, shoppers find an impressive selection of locally and ethically sourced foods and other products. They also find much more: multilayered community, meaningful information about food, and dedication to furthering the circular economy.

Milk from three local dairies—two of the farms use glass bottles—are delivered on alternating weekdays. Strafford Creamery’s whole milk with the cream on the top is among them. Gilfeather turnips, Vermont’s official state vegetable, come from Pete’s Greens in Craftsbury. A blue tag on the turnips’ bin notes their mild flavor. Adjacent to ripe bananas, a small poster explains the journey of these “equal exchange” fruits—from small farms in agricultural cooperatives in South America to independent retailers including UVFC.

The co-op’s shelves, bins, and coolers offer an abundance of organic and ecologically grown produce, artisan breads, cheeses, bulk grains, spices, supplements, organic products, and free-range and hormone-free meat. From soup to nuts, local products abound.

UVFC has been bringing healthy food and community together for 49 years. A 50th celebration is in the works. Along with this landmark anniversary, UVFC members and staff are looking ahead to the co-op’s future.

Darrion Whalen, general manager, explains that UVFC prioritizes making the co-op “truly a place where all are welcome by finding ways to ensure we have healthful and affordable foods for the entire community. We work to be an efficient space that helps the local economy—helping local purveyors and supporting the employees that work here,” he says, noting that paying livable wages is important to UVFC.

UVFC prioritizes making the co-op “truly a place where all are welcome by finding ways to ensure we have healthful and affordable foods for the entire community.” — Darrion Whalen, general manager.

Top from left: The colorful produce section is most shoppers’ first stop. Then they might head to the cheese cave, where half of the specialty cheeses are locally made.

Center: When customers get to the registers, they’ll be met with friendly faces! General Manager Darrion Whalen.

Bottom: Besides fresh produce, you’ll find packaged foods and a variety of bread. The Health and Body Care department features more local products, like bulk tinctures.

Community has been at UVFC’s core since the beginning, serving area residents with healthy food, with people working together, and building connections to farmers and purveyors.

HOW IT STARTED

Founded in 1976, the co-op grew out of earlier buying groups. Before then, increasing numbers of people in the Upper Valley had wanted natural and organic foods. Whole grains, brown rice, and other natural products were not readily available through supermarkets, so friends and neighbors began coordinating bulk shopping. Someone would drive to a supplier, often in Boston, bring back a bulk order, and divide it up. Eventually more than 500 individuals and families were participating in local groups.

Members of those buying groups launched

Upper Valley Food Co-op using the cooperative business model of an organization owned by its members. With a co-op’s democratic structure, member-owners control the business. Today, UVFC has around 2,500 active members and a nine-member board of directors. Membership is not required to shop there. A lifetime membership costs $100 and may be paid over four years.

After its initial retail space in Lebanon and subsequent one in downtown White River Junction, UVFC moved into its current home on North Main Street in 1992. The move into

Clockwise from top left: Humanely raised meats can be found in the frozen section, many of them from Vermont. Lynn, the cheese manager, is always happy to give a recommendation. UVFC is often identified by its red apple logo. Be sure to try the very special vinegar.

this historic building (it was originally constructed in 1895 as the Excelsior Carriage Company) gave the co-op five times the retail space of the earlier market and room for offices, a classroom, and more.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS

Community has been at UVFC’s core since the beginning, serving area residents with healthy food, with people working together, and building connections to farmers and purveyors. Kye Cochran of West Hartford has deep roots with the co-op and knows its importance in building community ties. “We joined the co-op as soon as we moved here (1987) because we are community oriented, like very good food, and like to be involved with people who want good food.” She soon signed up as a volunteer. Within a week she was asked to be on the staff, which numbered two at the time. Since then, Kye has served in just about every role at the co-op—volunteer, produce manager, general manager from 2004 to 2012, board member, and more. Today she continues as a part-time “floater” doing whatever is needed.

Among the needed things, Kye designs some of the co-op’s signage that gives shoppers essential information and is sometimes witty. At a time when food labelling often obfuscates rather than informs, UVFC’s is a refreshing change. In the produce department, green tags on bins designate organic products and blue tags are for local, with local/ organic clearly labelled. Those blue tags also note the name of the source farm. Schedules posted in the dairy and bread departments keep shoppers abreast of deliveries. Some informal notes advise shoppers too: A yellow sticky note by the crunchy peanut butter explains that color differences in it are due to varying amounts of peanut skin.

Posters introduce buyers to some of the farmers and purveyors, like Dave Chapman, whose Long Wind Farm in East Thetford, 16 miles away, dates back

to 1984. It’s nice to see the faces of people, including Dave, whose labor brings the tomatoes or potatoes or sunchokes to the market and, in turn, to homes.

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH

Larissa Sharff and Ben Fletcher spearhead the co-op’s education and outreach initiatives. The co-op’s classroom is used for a range of offerings, weekly qigong practice among them. The Documentary Club has frequent screenings, and a Wellness Workshop series of hands-on classes will be rolled out in October. The UVFC newsletter informs readers of programs with local organizations like Willing Hands that leads Talk and Glean events. In the co-op’s Sew-Op, equipped with sewing machines and fabric, people can learn sewing skills or work on independent projects. Sew-Op classes include mending and clothing repair.

The co-op, Darrion explains, is committed to furthering the circular economy, striving to build long-term resilience. Principles of the circular economy include breaking away from the traditional consumer culture of “take, make, and waste” by eliminating waste and pollution, circulating products and materials, and regenerating nature.

On multiple levels, UVFC is already contributing to the circular economy, even as it looks ahead to do more. Last year, the co-op invested in upgraded efficient refrigeration to shrink its energy footprint. Through its reuse program for containers and packaging, glass jars, plastic tubs, and paper bags get multiple uses instead of going straight to a landfill. Good quality food that has just passed its “best by” date is donated to the Haven and other community food shelves. Looking ahead, Darrion says, “We are going to do our best to be here and thrive, not just survive, for decades to come.” y

Upper Valley Food Co-op

193 North Main Street

White River Junction, VT

(802) 295-5804

uppervalleyfood.coop

Tuckerbox

129 South Main Street, Suite 100

White River Junction, VT (802) 478-4766

www.redcanvt.com

Dining Hours: Tue–Sat 4–9pm ROOM 39 Speakeasy Hours: Tue–Thu ‘til 10pm, Fri & Sat ‘til 11pm

85 North Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 295-3312

www.thymevermont.com

Wed–Sat 5–8:30pm

Private Room

Tuckerbox is located in the heart of downtown White River Junction. A community gathering place with exceptional coffee, exceptional service, and truly authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. We serve delicious Mediterranean breakfast until 2pm, a very healthy way to start your day. You can also enjoy authentic Turkish lunch items and even the best BLT you have ever had! For dinner enjoy any of our 12 different kebab dishes prepared on a wood-fired smoker grill. Dining at Tuckerbox will whisk you away to a far off land, transporting you to Istanbul and back with every bite!

1 South Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 359-4041

www.tuckerboxvermont.com

193 North Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 295-5804

Mon–Sat 8am–7pm, Sun 9am–5pm

Upper Valley Food Co-op

The Upper Valley Food Co-op is an independent co-op located in downtown White River Junction. We focus on products that are local, organic, fair trade, and minimally packaged. We have a strong commitment to local farmers and producers, and you’ll find local products in every department of the store.

Long River Gallery

49 South Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 295-4567

www.longrivergallery.com

Wed–Sat 11am–5pm Sun 11am–4pm

Reservations Suggested C&S Pizza

104 South Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 295-5622

Mon–Thu 11am–8pm Fri & Sat 11am–9pm Closed Sun

Steven Thomas, Inc.

Fine Arts & Antiques, Buying & Selling

85 Gates Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 457-1764

www.woodblock-prints.com Fri–Sat 11am–4pm or by appointment

Cappadocia Cafe

5 South Main Street

White River Junction, VT

www.cappadociacafevt.com

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 7:30am–5pm Sun 9am–5pm Closed Wed

We’re Making Tracks!

Big Fatty’s BBQ

Centrally located in White River Junction, Vermont, Big Fatty’s BBQ is the Upper Valley’s premiere barbecue and craft beer destination. Featuring freshly cooked meats and homemade sides, Big Fatty’s continues to delight locals and visitors alike. With live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, themed events, and tap takeovers, there’s no shortage of entertainment! Join us for the Upper Valley’s best and only AMAZING salad bar with fresh daily salads, soups, proteins, fresh breads, and desserts! Eat in and take out. Open for lunch and dinner.

186 South Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 295-5513

www.bigfattybbq.com

Putnam’s vine/yard

SHOP DRINK LEARN. Located in a historic Vermont railyard, the Putnam’s vine/yard secret garden is the perfect place to catch up with friends or find a quiet spot to relax with a great book and glass of wine. We are family friendly with an assortment of wooden toys, and we serve nonalcoholic beverages including specialty coffee and imported artisanal teas. Check out the Event Calendar on our website for upcoming Wine School & Vine School Classes, as well as Pop-Ups from local food purveyors and artists. Stop by every weekend between 10am and 4pm for brunch!

188 South Main Street, Unit 110 White River Junction, VT (802) 899-0405

www.putnamsvineyard.com Tue–Sat 8am–10pm, Sun 8am–9pm

Junction Frame Shop

Junction Frame Shop has been a steadfast part of downtown White River Junction since 1985. That’s 40 years of providing creative picture framing for all tastes and budgets.

55 South Main Street

White River Junction, VT (802) 458-0569

www.junctionframeshop.com

Mon–Fri 9am–5pm Sat 9am–3pm

Good Neighbor

Health Clinic & Red Logan Dental Clinic

Your neighbors need you! Every year, hundreds of people come to our clinic without insurance, needing medical, dental, or mental health care. We are able to provide free care because of the generosity of those who believe in our mission and in one another. Your support, of any amount, allows us to continue to meet the growing needs of our community. Learn more about our work and how you can make a difference by visiting www.goodneighborhealthclinic.org/get-involved.

PO Box 1250 (70 North Main Street)

White River Junction, VT (802) 295-1868

www.goodneighborhealthclinic.org

BY PAMELA BROWN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CPERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

LOVE’S BEDDING and FURNITURE

FURNITURE STORE OFFERS TLC FOR YOUR HOME

“YOU’RE GOING TO LOVE IT AT LOVE’S” is the motto that has guided the business ethos of Love’s Bedding and Furniture for almost three decades. “It’s our mission for every customer to feel confident and empowered when shopping for furniture. Our knowledgeable sales team doesn’t work on commission, which means their advice is honest and their focus is entirely on your needs. This creates a fun and relaxed shopping experience where education comes first and selling comes second,” says April Love, owner of the family-owned store located at 185 Washington Street in Claremont. “I’m grateful to have been part of this community for so long. Growing a business in my hometown has been nothing short of special.”

Comfort and Character

Established in 1996, Love’s Bedding and Furniture is a beloved shopping venue that helps customers fill their home with love and style. “Every time you step into Love’s, there’s something new to discover. One moment you might spot a reclaimed accent cabinet styled with beautiful serving ware, and the next, a dishtowel that makes you laugh out loud. Look up and you might see a handcrafted metal catfish or an antique door straight from India,” April says. The store features carefully curated items that offer comfort and bring character into a home. It carries leading manufacturers, including Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Flexsteel, Ashley, Best Chair, Mavin, and Daniel’s Amish, among others. They specialize in slipcovered furniture, lift chairs, Norwegian recliners,

April Love, owner.

Left and opposite bottom: Love’s slipcovered furniture is proudly made in the USA. Choose from hundreds of fabrics to create the perfect piece for your home. Photos of April and blue sofa courtesy of Love’s. Below from top: Dining season is here! Gather around a new Amishmade dining set or unwind in a poly folding Adirondack chair.

««««« The

Business Spotlight

highlights businesses that have been in our community for many years.

Left: From Amish bedroom furniture and reclaimed doors from India to epoxy tables and slipcovered designs, you’ll always discover something unique at Love’s.

Right and below: Find the mattress of your dreams from TempurPedic, Aireloom, or Sealy to organic latex options. Love’s sister store, Cash and Carry Furniture, is located down the street and has rustic furniture, country decor, and primitive pieces.

custom Amish dining sets, bedroom furniture, and more, and they feature American-made products. “While we carry trusted, wellknown brands, we pride ourselves on offering pieces you won’t find anywhere else. What makes our showroom special is the mix. We carry neutrals, but it’s our bold mix of colors, textures, and unexpected details that set us apart,” she says, adding the store also works with companies for wall art, accessories, and unfinished furniture. “We carry a little bit of everything—from the big and cozy to the small and surprising. Think mattresses and adjustable bases all the way down to salt shakers and bottle openers. Looking for a unique gift? You might stumble across a hooded blanket, or even a vintage-style scooter or tricycle.”

April enjoys discovering special pieces on multiple market trips throughout the year that bring character and charm to the showroom and add to a customer’s décor.

“What sets us apart from your typical furniture store is no matter where you look, there’s always something unexpected. I’m always on the lookout for one-of-a-kind finds, like novelty coolers shaped like vintage trucks or reclaimed doors from India. It’s part of creating a space that feels a little different every time you visit,” she says.

“We

carry a little bit of everything—from the big and cozy to the small and surprising. Think mattresses and adjustable bases all the way down to salt shakers and bottle openers. Looking for a unique gift? You might stumble across a hooded blanket, or even a vintagestyle scooter or tricycle.”

Genuine Care and Support

April attributes the store’s success to a dedicated staff of design experts and consultants and the ability to adapt to change. “Our staff makes a difference. Our stores have a fun, no-pressure vibe that makes shopping feel easy and relaxed. Our team brings the personality and genuine care that keeps people coming back,” says April, who focuses on the customer.

“Whether someone’s shopping in-store, picking up an order, or clicking around our website, we always look for ways to improve the experience. From the moment someone discovers us to well after a purchase, we want them to feel supported.” In an active industry, April and her team continue to grow, learn, and adjust. “That mix of adaptability and heart is what keeps us moving forward. We’re always refining, shifting, and finding new ways to get better.”

The business began as Love’s Cloud Nine Bedding in 1996, a small mattress shop in a building originally used by the city’s water department. “We built our current showroom around the original brick structure, which you can still see today with arches and doorways. As you explore the store, you’ll notice historic details woven throughout multiple rooms. It has one-of-akind charm,” explains April. Over the years, the sleep-focused storefront grew into two retail stores and a distribution center with a team of over 25 employees. “About 15 years ago, we acquired Cash and Carry Furniture, and more recently, transformed the old Coca-Cola plant here in Claremont into our bustling distribution hub.”

April takes pride in offering seamless, stress-free, white-glove service before, during, and after every sale. “We treat your space with the same care as our own,” she says. “We want our customers to feel happy, cared for, and confident about their furniture or mattress purchase. Furniture is an investment and we want to make sure our customers are educated and know we’re here for them after the purchase as well.”

April shares more about her business.

Accent piece homeowners should splurge on?

It can be small, one little piece that makes you smile every time you walk into the room.

What’s the best way to keep a room interesting?

Adding a pop of color—through a vibrant accent pillow or a bold sofa fabric—to instantly bring energy and personality to a space.

What has been your most memorable project?

Transforming the old Coca-Cola plant into our new distribution center.

Furniture item on your home’s wish list? Anything durable enough to survive two teenage boys and a Doberman!

Who inspires your design aesthetic?

Our customers are a huge source of inspiration. Seeing what resonates in their homes and what pieces they’re drawn to helps guide the look and feel of our stores. Their style helps shape ours. We love that.

Most unique one-of-a-kind find?

Our inventory changes, but at the moment, the standout piece has to be a seven-foot-tall spice scale from India!

What’s the best part of being a business in Claremont?

We’re proud to be part of the Claremont community and excited to grow alongside the incredible changes happening here. Being rooted in a place we love makes everything we do that much more meaningful.

What’s in the future for Love’s?

We’ve got a lot of exciting things in the works. y

Love’s Bedding and Furniture 185 Washington Street Claremont, NH (603) 542-5374 lovesbeddingandfurniture.com

Fall | 2025

THE PICK

arts & entertainment

Ongoing

One-Week Cartooning Workout: Alec Longstreth and James Sturm The Center for Cartoon Studies cartoonstudies.org

Mondays Toddler Storytime Lebanon Library, 10:30am leblibrary.com

Mondays Crafternoon Kilton Library, 3pm leblibrary.com

Tuesdays Jammin’ Jellybeans Kilton Library, 10:30am leblibrary.com

Wednesdays Baby Buzz Lebanon Lebanon Library, 10:30am leblibrary.com

Wednesdays Babywearing Workout Kilton Library, 11:30am leblibrary.com

Wednesdays Beginners Yoga Kilton Library, 6pm leblibrary.com

Thursdays Baby Buzz Kilton Kilton Library, 10:30am leblibrary.com

Fridays Jammin’ Jellybeans Kilton Library, 10:30am leblibrary.com

Through October 26

Come From Away Barrette Center for the Arts northernstage.org

October 2, November 6 First Thursday Hike at The Fells The Fells, 11am thefells.org

October 2

Sierra Hull & John Craigie Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

October 3

Magic Rocks! with Illusionist

Leon Etienne Lebanon Opera House, 6:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

October 4

Being Petty: The Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Experience

October 11, The Corvettes

October 4

Rosemary Gladstar In-Person Talk Enfield Shaker Museum shakermuseum.org

October 4, 25, November 15

Master Class with Peter Granucci Library Arts Center, 9am libraryartscenter.org

October 4

Being Petty: The Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Experience Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

October 5

Garden Tour with Rosemary Enfield Shaker Museum shakermuseum.org

October 5, November 22

Basket-Making Workshop Library Arts Center, 8:30am libraryartscenter.org

October 8

An Evening with David Sedaris Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

October 10–November 15

Exhibit: Patrick Dunfey, Alexander Pope, Don Williams, Barbara Garber, Esme Thompson

AVA Gallery and Art Center avagallery.org

October 10, November 14

Epic Empires Book Club Kilton Library, 12pm leblibrary.com

October 11

The Corvettes Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

October 11, 25, November 8, 22 Upper Valley Traditional Music Jams Kilton Library, 3pm leblibrary.com

October 12

Pumpkin Festival Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center, 10am cedarcirclefarm.org

October 12

Hay Day Fall Festival The Fells, 11am thefells.org

October 14

Jeff Tweedy: Twilight Override Tour Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

October 15

Raid & Trade: Pokemon Go Lebanon Library, 6pm leblibrary.com

October 16, November 20 Queer Book Club Lebanon Library, 6:30pm leblibrary.com

October 18

A Murder Mystery Evening: Dinner, Death, and Dessert The Fells, 5:30pm thefells.org

October 18

Meet Loaf: Tribute to Meat Loaf Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

October 20

An Evening with Patty Griffin and Rickie Lee Jones Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

October 24

FJ: A Tribute to Foreigner & Journey Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

October 25

Comedian Bob Marley Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

October 30

Upper Valley Trails Alliance Annual Dinner Lake Morey Resort, 6pm uvtrails.org

November 6

Flamy Grant Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

November 7

Christmas at The Fells Preview Party The Fells, 5:30pm thefells.org

November 8

Workshop: Painting the Portrait in Watercolor Library Arts Center, 9:30am libraryartscenter.org

November 8, 9, 16

Christmas at The Fells: Pictures with Santa The Fells, 10am thefells.org

November 8

The Brit Pack Ultimate British Music Experience Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

November 8–December 23

Gallery of Gifts Library Arts Center libraryartscenter.org

October 12, Pumpkin Festival, Cedar Circle Farm

November 12

Christmas at The Fells: Ladies Night The Fells, 6pm thefells.org

November 14

Natalie Merchant with Erik Della Penna: Autumn Acoustic Tour Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

November 15

Christmas at The Fells: Breakfast with Santa The Fells, 10am thefells.org

November 15

Frank Santos Jr.–The R-Rated Hypnotist Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

November 21

BeauSoleil 50th Anniversary Lebanon Opera House, 7:30pm lebanonoperahouse.org

November 22

Mamma Mania! ABBA Celebration Claremont Opera House, 7:30pm cohnh.org

November 28–December 31

Holiday Exhibition

AVA Gallery and Art Center avagallery.org

November 6, Flamy Grant

Hopkins Center for the Arts hop.dartmouth.edu

For information, tickets, or pricing information, call (603) 646-2422 or visit hop.dartmouth.edu.

October 16

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Satisfied Film Screening Loew Auditorium, 7:30pm

October 17

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Dedication Ceremony

October 17

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: An Evening with Renee Elise Goldsberry Spaulding Auditorium, 8pm

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Connecting with Balance with Pilobolus

Daryl Roth Studio Theater, 9:30am

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Arts District Open House

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Champagne Brunch for Hop Members and Community Campaign Supporters Top of the Hop, 10am

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Arts Are Essential The Moore Theater, 11am

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: A HopStop Family Workshop: Pilobolus Alphabet Dance

Daryl Roth Studio Theater, 11am

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Community Lunch on the Dartmouth Green Dartmouth Green, 12pm

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Fireside Chat with Shonda Rhimes ’91 and Mindy Kaling ’01 The Moore Theater, 2pm

October 18

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration: Jazz Happy Hour

Daryl and Steven Roth Wing, 4pm

October 18

We Are Water: A Northeast Celebration: Yo-Yo Ma, Jeremy Dutcher, Mali Obomsawin, and Chris Newell Spaulding Auditorium, 8pm

October 19

Dartmouth Arts Weekend Celebration:

Site-Specific Adventure with Pilobolus Hopkins Center, 3pm

October 25

Met Opera in HD: La Sonnambula Spaulding Auditorium, 1pm

October 25

Arts Integration Showcase

Daryl Roth Studio Theater, 2pm

October 30

Dartmouth College Wind Ensemble:

Pacho Flores & Hector Molina

Spaulding Auditorium, 7:30pm

November 2

Dartmouth College Glee Club

Rollins Chapel, 2pm

November 6

Dartmouth College Gospel Choir

Spaulding Auditorium, 7:30pm

November 8

Coast Jazz Orchestra

Daryl Roth Studio Theater, 7:30pm

November 9

Met Opera in HD: La Boheme

Spaulding Auditorium, 1pm

November 11

Dartmouth Dance Showcase

The Moore Theater, 7:30pm

November 15

Dartmouth Symphony Orchestra

Spaulding Auditorium, 7:30pm

November 18

Handel Society

Spaulding Auditorium, 7:30pm

November 22

Met Opera in HD: Arabella

Spaulding Auditorium, 1pm

 October 19, Site-Specific Adventure with Pilobolus

GET CONNECTED

Get listed on the www.greateruppervalley.com BUSINESS DIRECTORY and you will also be included on our printed list in every issue of image magazine (see page 19).

HERE’S HOW!

Call Ryan Frisch at (518) 365-0030 or email ryanfrisch@mountainview publishing.com. Find out how you can connect with our readers. It’s easy, inexpensive, and another way to reach an affluent and educated audience.

SUBSCRIBE

Share the wonder of our beautiful area and the latest news all year long with an image gift subscription. Friends and family who have moved away from the area will be especially appreciative. Be sure to order a subscription for yourself, too!

Send a check for $19.95 for one year (4 issues) to image, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH, 03755. Or conveniently pay online using PayPal at www.greateruppervalley.com.

121 Home 33

3 Phase Landscaping 44

AVA Gallery and Art Center 19

All Eyes on You 54

American Precision Museum 92

Baker Orthodontics 14

Bar Harbor Wealth Management 15

Bark N Bath Pet Spa 55

Barton Insurance Agency 24

Belletetes 7

Bethel Mills 65

Big Fatty’s BBQ 81

Busy Women Wellness 54

C&S Pizza 80

Cape Air 70

Cappadocia Cafe 81

Carpet Mill 4

Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center 14

Chapman’s General 20

Claremont Financial Services 28

Claremont Makerspace 45

Claremont Opera House 45

Colonial Pharmacy 86

Color Café 54

Cota & Cota 87

Crown Point Cabinetry Inside back cover

Crown Point Select 5

Dance Arts Academy 86

Davis Frame Co. 13

Donald J. Neely, DMD, MSD –Hanover Orthodontics 23

Dr. Alla Devitskaya 55

Dutille’s Jewelry Design Studio 21

Eastern Propane & Oil 16

Enfield Shaker Museum 65

Eyeglass Outlet 25

Flashphoto 56

Floorcraft 54

Foremost Builders 77

Foster’s Fine Jewelry 55

Frank Webb Home/MN & Co. 29

Gilberte Interiors 2

Good Neighbor Health Clinic 81

Hanover Road Dental Health 31

Helen’s Place 55

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Hubert’s Family Outfitters 54

Hugo Anderson MFA 54

Jasmin Auto 92

Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, Inc. 27

Jenna Sievers Realtor 86

Junction Frame Shop 81

Katie’s Cookies 95

Lake Sunapee Region Chamber of Commerce 21

Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice 28

Landforms 23

LaValley Building Supply 17

Lebanon Airport 90

Lebanon Paint & Decorating 22 & 89

Loewen Window Center 29

Long River Gallery 80

Love’s Bedding & Furniture 57

Lumber Barn 88

MJ Harrington Jewelers 64

Mascoma Dental Associates 27

McGray & Nichols 32

Mertens House 95

Millstone at 74 Main Restaurant 55

Montcalm Golf Club 53

Morgan Hill Bookstore 56

NT Ferro Estate & Custom Jewelers 25, 33

New England Beauty & Wellness 55

New London Hospital 71

New London Inn/The Elms 54

New London Opticians 54

Newport Golf Club 26

Omer and Bob’s 93

Putnam’s vine/yard 81

Ramunto’s Brick Oven Pizza 92

Randolph Area Community Center 78

Real Property Options 91

RedCan 80

Richard Electric 64

Ricker Funeral Home 91

Rousseau & Ross 24

Shaker Hill Granite Company 31

Shepherd Realty 54

Simple Energy 94

Simply Beeutiful Events 37

Springfield Hospital Inside front cover

Steven Thomas, Inc. 81

Sugar River Bank 37

Summercrest Senior Living 87

Sunapee Shade and Blind 55 & 78

Switchback Consignment 56

Talbot Builders 22

Tatewell Gallery 56

The Cabinet en-Counter 53

The Carriage Shed 11

The Flying Goose Brew Pub & Grille 55

The Hair Station 55

The Inn at Pleasant Lake/ The Oak Room 56

The Public House 89

The Refinery Restaurant & Market 56

The Renaissance Shoppe/ Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice 56

The Tea House Back cover

The Woodstock Gallery 33

Thyme Restaurant 80

Timberpeg 1

Timeless Medical Aesthetics & Wellness 51

Top Stitch Embroidery 89

Tuckerbox 80

Tyler, Simms 26

Upper Valley Food Co-op 80

Upper Valley Haven 91

Valley Artesian Well Company 8

Valley Regional Hospital 3

WISE 93

Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture 57

White River Family Eyecare/ Hanover Eyecare 79

William Smith Auctioneer 6

Willing Hands 51

Willowbrook Builders 71

Woodcrest Village 79

Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce 33

Woodstock Inn & Resort 77

Yankee Barn Homes 9

For more information about print and online advertising opportunities, contact Ryan Frisch at (518) 365-0030 or email ryanfrisch@mountainviewpublishing.com.

The Hill family in New York City for the holidays.

Editor Deb with a statue of Vincent Van Gogh in the charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise, France.

Editor Deb’s son Andy and grandson Anderson celebrate Alexander Ovechkin’s setting a new record for ice hockey goals, breaking the record Wayne Gretzky held for 31 years.

Ed and Betsy Warren spend a week in El Salvador with Eye Care International.

Patience at her birthday dinner with her friend Luke. Lara Maville Design.

Two bunnies—real or chocolate? Photo by Lisa Ward.