Enjoy the arts in Sunapee Harbor this summer. by Susan Nye
54 | Introducing Jackie Rocha
Saint-Gaudens Memorial executive director. by Mary Gow
72 | A World-Class Homecoming
Oak Hill Music Festival returns to the Upper Valley. by Susan
B. Apel
94 | Close Encounters of a Bear Kind
Connecting with the rhythms of the wild in Alaska. by Nathan Larson
ARTS in SUNAPEE HARBOR
Right: The formal gardens north of Aspet at Saint-Gaudens. Photo by Rob Strong/Don Freeman Group.
Cover: Sunapee Harbor. Photo by Ian Raymond.
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As the season’s long, golden days stretch into warm, balmy evenings, summer’s allure invites us to step outside and experience its magic. Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of glistening water, the echoes of history, or the creativity of music and art festivals, we’ve packed many wonders of summer in the local area into this issue.
Take some time to cool off at your favorite lake, river, or stream. Plan for a day—or a week—of fun with your family at Lake Sunapee (page 34). Besides boating and fishing, explore the 10-day Naturally New England arts and crafts show as well as the Arts in the Harbor event July 12. You’ll meet many talented local artisans while you browse a treasure trove of unique finds.
Continue the art and culture vibe at the Oak Hill Music Festival during the last part of June (page 72). Did you know one of their members is a Grammy-award-winning violinist? You’ll find their concert schedule on page 75. Check local venues’ calendars for many open-air concerts throughout the area. Grab a blanket and a picnic basket and you’ll be set for a wonderful evening of music under the stars.
You’ll want to save at least one beautiful day to stroll through the breathtaking gardens and exquisite sculptures at Saint-Gaudens Memorial in Cornish as you receive a delicious dose of New Hampshire history (page 54). We’re introducing you to the new—and first full-time—executive director, Jackie Rocha. Welcome, Jackie! We know you’re going to love it here.
Looking to add some play to your outdoor adventures? Grab your partner and head out to Fore-U Golf Center. You’ll discover the interesting story of how this family-owned facility has grown and evolved over the past 41 years (page 62). Besides miniature golf, you can work on perfecting your golf swing at the 52-bay, double-decked driving range, or blast homeruns from the batting cages. Before heading home, everyone must indulge in their favorite ice cream treat. It’s a rule!
This season, grab your sunglasses, your sense of adventure, and your loved ones. Summer awaits, ready to fill your days with memories to last a lifetime. Enjoy!
Susan shuttered a lifelong career as a law professor to continue an interest (since kindergarten) in writing. Her freelance business, The Next Word, includes literary and feature writing; her work has appeared in a variety of lit mags and other publications including Art New England, The Arts Fuse, and Persimmon Tree. She connects with her neighbors through Artful, her blog about arts and culture in the Upper Valley. She’s in love with the written word.
Pamela Brown, WRITER
Pamela has been a journalist for over 25 years and is the founder of PMB Writing & Consulting, providing editorial and marketing services to small and large businesses. She is also the author of Faithful Love, a contemporary romanceadventure novel. In her free time, Pamela enjoys playing tennis, gardening, drawing, and spending time with her daughter Alexis and her dogs, mini Goldendoodle Rafa and Mal-Shi Andy.
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
Chantelle Neily, PHOTOGRAPHER
Chantelle grew up in rural Vermont; at a young age she was introduced to photography and was immediately drawn to the excitement, challenge, and opportunities that each new photograph presented. After receiving a BFA in Photography from Sage College of Albany and a Certificate in Professional Photography from Hallmark Institute of Photography, she moved back to the Upper Valley and started CPerry Photography.
Lars Blackmore, PHOTOGRAPHER
Lars grew up in Denmark and has worked as a photojournalist since the early 1990s, covering everything from concerts to conflicts on assignment for the Associated Press, Save the Children, and others. Now based in Norwich, Vermont, with his wife and two kids, he combines photography and writing assignments with graduate work at Dartmouth College.
Susan Nye, WRITER
While you can find her work in magazines throughout New England, Susan lives, eats, cooks, and writes in New Hampshire. She shares many of her favorite stories about family, friendship, and food on her award-winning blog, Around the Table, at www .susannye.wordpress.com.
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Learn New Sustainable Living Skills at Billings Backyard
Billings Backyard has kicked off its 2025–2026 season with many workshops to attend.
Where to Get Manicures and Pedicures in the Upper Valley
If you want to spruce your nails up a bit and give them a pop of color, there are many salons in the Upper Valley where you can schedule an appointment or walk in.
Fun Places to Throw a Kid’s Birthday Party in the Upper Valley
Make your child’s next birthday memorable by hosting it at a fun location in the area.
ONLINE ADVERTISERS INDEX
3 PHASE LANDSCAPING, LLC
ALIGN INN VERMONT
BARTON INSURANCE AGENCY
BELLETETES
CALDWELL LAW
CAPE AIR
CAPPADOCIA CAFE
CARPENTER & MAIN
CHAPMAN’S GENERAL STORE
CLEARCHOICEMD URGENT CARE
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
HOOD MUSEUM
HUBERT’S FAMILY OUTFITTERS
IVY
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
N.T. FERRO ESTATE & CUSTOM JEWELERS
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 TEA HOUSE
THE WORKS CAFÉ
TOP STITCH
TUCKERBOX
UPPER VALLEY BUSINESS ALLIANCE
VALLEY REGIONAL HOSPITAL
VILLAGE PIZZA
VINS
WHITE RIVER FAMILY EYECARE
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 | JUNE
SUPPORT A HEALTHY PROSTATE
COOL DOWN WITH A CLASSIC IC
If you’re craving a classic ice cream parlor treat, nothing beats an ice cream soda. Not to be confused with a float, which features ice cream “floating” on top of soda water, an ice cream soda typically contains syrup and cream. On June 20, Ice Cream Soda Day, fill a tall, chilled glass with three tablespoons of your favorite syrup (like chocolate or strawberry) and a couple tablespoons of half & half. Mix well. Add soda water three-quarters of the way up the glass. Add a couple scoops of your favorite ice cream and mix well. Top with whipped cream and some hot fudge.
June is Men’s Health Month, a time for men to take charge of their health. According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. About six cases in ten are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older.
Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but most men diagnosed with it are treated successfully. Living a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways reduce the risk. The Mayo Clinic offers the following tips:
Limit unhealthy fats. Select lean cuts of meat and reduce your intake of full-fat dairy products. Consume more healthy fats from plant-based sources such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
Increase your daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are packed with vitamins and nutrients linked to a reduced cancer risk.
Add fish to your diet. Salmon, tuna, and herring contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight. Men with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher may have an increased risk of prostate cancer. Achieve and maintain a healthy weight by consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and exercising regularly.
FACTS, FUN & IDEAS
DON’T CRY!
June 27 is National Onion Day. Onions are one of the oldest cultivated and most eaten plants in the world. They’re incorporated in virtually every type of regional cuisine and lend a potent flavor that complements almost everything. While you probably already cook with onions, here are a few tricks and tips you may not know.
Onions last longer when stored at room temperature.
To avoid tearing up, put whole onions, skins and all, in the freezer for 30 minutes before dicing them. This slows the release of the irritating natural enzymes that make your eyes water. If your onion is intense and you’d like a milder flavor, soak chopped onions in ice water for 10 to 20 minutes.
Add a pinch of baking soda to a pound of chopped onions to speed up the caramelization process. Make sure your pan is big enough to provide enough surface area for browning.
White and red onions are sweeter and have a milder flavor than yellow ones. They’re perfect for salads and sandwiches.
“It is the month of June, the month of leaves and roses, when pleasant sights salute the eyes and pleasant scents the noses.” —Nathaniel Parker Willis
MONTHLY TIDBITS | JULY
DISCOVER YOUR VOICE
Find your unique voice at Writers’ Tuesdays in July at The Fells, a welcoming workshop designed for everyone with a story to tell. Embrace your creativity in the inspiring setting of the historic John Hay Estate. Each Tuesday these intimate writing workshops will be led by distinguished instructors, and lush gardens and spectacular lake views will become your muse. Advance registration is required. Visit thefells.org for more information and to register.
Did You Know?
July always starts on the same weekday as April in common years and January in leap years.
PICK YOUR OWN BLUEBERRIES
Local, sun-ripened berries full of flavor are one of summer’s best—and most delicious—treats! July 10 is Pick Blueberries Day, and now through August is the prime time for picking these sweet treasures. The organic pick-your-own blueberry patch at Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center is open dawn until dusk and operates on the honor system. The patch is located a half mile south of the farmstand on Pavillion Road. For pricing and payment information, visit cedarcirclefarm.org.
An Eccentric Inventor
July 10 marks the birthday of Nikola Tesla, a Serbian-American inventor and engineer whose inventions shaped our modern world by revolutionizing how we generate, transmit, and use electricity. Born in 1856, Tesla immigrated to the United States in 1884 and briefly worked with Thomas Edison. His technological breakthroughs laid the foundation for many aspects of our modern-day lives. A few of his most significant inventions include alternatingcurrent power systems, the development of radio, neon and fluorescent lighting, the remote control, and, of course, the Tesla coil. Tesla allowed himself only a few close friends (including Mark Twain) and was said to be eccentric and driven by compulsions and a germ phobia. As time went on, his ideas became progressively more outlandish and impractical—he speculated about communicating with other planets and his claim of having invented a powerful “death ray” even drew the attention of the FBI. Tesla died a poor recluse on January 7, 1943, at the age of 86.
Tesla dedicated his life to his work and never married or had children. He was the fourth of five children, and his family line continues through his siblings.
MONTHLY TIDBITS | JULY
GIVE IT AWAY!
If you didn’t get the spring-cleaning bug, it’s the perfect time for a summer cleanout! July 15 is National Give Something Away Day, and there are organizations in the Upper Valley that would welcome your unwanted items. Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept new and gently used appliances, furniture, building materials, household goods, and more. In many cases, pickup service is provided for large items. Proceeds from the sale of donated goods help families build a foundation for their future. Visit the Upper Valley Habitat for Humanity website for more information, uvhabitat.org. LISTEN Thrift Stores will accept gently used furniture, clothing, handbags, books, collectibles, blankets, dishes, glassware, hand tools, and more. The proceeds from donations stay local and benefit the community—25 percent of the stores’ revenue supports LISTEN’s programs that provide food, heating, and housing assistance to our neighbors in need. There are locations in Lebanon, Canaan, and White River Junction. Visit listencs.org for more information and donation hours.
AUGUST
A Little Help from Your Friends
August 3 is National Friendship Day, the perfect time to meet a pal for lunch or invite a neighbor over for a cold glass of iced tea on the front porch. Forging new friendships and maintaining old ones may help slow cognitive decline, particularly among seniors. The US National Institute on Aging reports that participating in social activities such as visiting friends, volunteering, and going on trips has been associated with better brain function, while older people who don’t socialize as much may be at an increased risk of dementia.
Spoil Your Dog
Those of us with dogs spoil them every day, but on August 10, National Spoil Your Dog Day, show your furry friend some extra love. Treat your canine like a king by taking him on a fun adventure. Upper Valley Trails Alliance offers a list of dog-friendly hikes, including Echo Mountain Trail in Fairlee, Collette and Bicknell Trails in Enfield, Lambert Ridge Trail in Lyme, and French’s Ledges in Plainfield. For more info, visit uvtrails.org or pick up a copy of Best Hikes with Dogs: New Hampshire & Vermont by longtime Image contributor Lisa Ballard. Since we are still in the “dog days of summer”—the hottest time of the year—treat your dog to a swim at a local swimming hole or set up a kiddie pool in your yard where your dog can cool off.
Have a Lazy Day
Most of us have a to-do list a mile long, but there’s a lot to be said for taking a day to rest. August 10 is Lazy Day, a time to take a break from chores, housework, and work and sit back and do what brings you joy and relaxation—read a book in the shade, binge your favorite TV show, or snooze in the hammock. Studies find that intentional relaxation not only reduces stress and increases calmness but also reduces symptoms of health issues that are worsened by stress, like gastrointestinal ailments, insomnia, hypertension, anxiety, headaches, and chronic pain. Give yourself permission to take today off. Your mind and body will thank you!
Summer Reading
Beyond pure pleasure and relaxation, there are so ways that reading benefits us physically, mentally, and emotionally. Studies show that reading stimulates neural pathways in the brain, improving memory and cognitive function. Reading can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep quality. There’s even a link between reading and longevity.
Whether you prefer a physical book, an e-reader, or an audiobook, head to the porch, patio, backyard hammock, pool, lake, or beach this summer with a new read.
BUZZ OFF, BUGS
S ummertime is mosquito season in the Upper Valley! If you’re looking for a way to repel mosquitoes and other pests naturally, the following essential oils are shown to be effective:
• Citronella and citrus oils repel mosquitoes and flies.
• Peppermint oil works to both repel and kill mosquitoes. An added bonus? It may also help keep spiders and ants away.
For an all-purpose insect repellent, the Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends combining 1 cup alcohol or witch hazel and 10 to 20 drops of essential oils. Store in a dark-colored spray bottle or keep in a dark spot to preserve the oils’ effectiveness.
MONTHLY TIDBITS | AUGUST
A PEACH OF A MONTH
It’s National Peach month, and it doesn’t get much better than a perfectly ripe, juicy peach. If you pick your own peaches this month, choose fruits that separate easily from the twigs. If it’s hard to pull off the tree, it’s not ripe—and peaches will not ripen further on their own once removed from the tree. (You can ripen them by placing them in a brown paper bag for two or three days.) Perfect peaches should smell sweet and have just a little give when gently pressed.
Did You Know?
The world’s largest peach cobbler is made every year in Georgia, the Peach State. The cobbler measures 11 feet by five feet.
BY SUSAN NYE 6 PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN RAYMOND
Worth a Detour— NO, WORTH A TRIP
ENJOY THE ARTS IN SUNAPEE HARBOR THIS JULY
Beautiful flowers, summer sunshine, and a magnificent view await you in Sunapee Harbor.
If it’s been a while (or forever) since your last trip to Sunapee Harbor, it’s past time to make a plan to change all that. The Harbor is definitely a hustling, bustling place—particularly during the 10-day Naturally New England show. Starting on July 11, The Livery will host this juried show of paintings, prints, stained glass, felting, and photography. The Center for the Arts (CFA) sponsors Naturally New England as well as a full docket of exhibits, lectures, readings, workshops, and classes throughout the year. This year marks the nonprofit’s 15-year anniversary.
More than 50 artists will show over 200 pieces at this year’s Naturally New England show. In keeping with the name, the exhibit presents New England landscapes and wildlife in multiple styles from stark realism to semiabstract. Rick Stockwell, a well-known local photographer, organizes the show. Rick is actively involved in CFA. Along with running Naturally New England, he co-chairs the Visual Arts Guild, organizes the bimonthly microgalleries, and facilitates critique groups. “Our goals within the guild are to create a dynamic artist community and provide ongoing opportunities and support.”
The Harbor is the perfect spot for a weekend walkabout. For sale or rent, the Harbor docks are always in great demand. Don’t miss the one-day arts and crafts Arts in the Harbor show. And take some time to sit and take in the view.
SCHEDULED EVENTS
Dont miss the fun!
Naturally New England Preview Party & Fundraiser
July 11
Prospect Hill Antiques & Art Gallery
Naturally New England July 11–20
The Livery centerfortheartsnh.org/ naturally-new-england
Arts in the Harbor
July 12
Down by the water in Sunapee Harbor centerfortheartsnh.org/cfaevents
En Plein Air Painting
July 13
Various locations
Vanish, a documentary film by Jim Westphalen
July 13
The Livery
Behind the Lyrics: Discover the Stories Behind the Music
July 19
The Livery
ORGANIZER AND SPONSORS
Center for the Arts
428 Main Street New London, NH (844) 564-2787 centerfortheartsnh.org
The Livery 58 Main Street Sunapee Harbor
Prospect Hill Antiques
31 River Road Sunapee Harbor
Hoptimystic Brewing Tasting Room 31 River Road, downstairs Sunapee Harbor
Meet the artists and enjoy a wide range of fine arts and crafts at Arts in the Harbor. Every week there is a different activity for children at the farmers’ market, from face painting and reading to donkeys and more.
Inside The Livery, the juried Naturally New England show features paintings and photographs of local landscapes, flora, and fauna.
“We’re excited about this, our eighth Naturally New England show,” says Rick. “We are constantly working to improve the breadth, depth, and quality of the show.”
Visitors will enjoy both longtime favorite artists as well as some newcomers. “We want to keep it fresh and new,” he says. All pieces are for sale and prices range from $75 for small pieces and prints to $2,500 and above. Rick says, “Art can be a wonderful memento of a special vacation or great day out and about. A good many purchases are made by people visiting the lake and surrounding area.” He adds, “Scenes of Sunapee sell particularly well with vacationers.”
MORE THAN AN ART SHOW
Dena Stahlheber, CFA executive director, says, “Naturally New England is more than a gallery show; it’s multiple events celebrating the arts and the Harbor.” The exhibition runs for 10 days and closes on July 20. CFA and their sponsors have organized several performances and parties to complement the exhibit, celebrate the arts, and draw attention to the Harbor’s natural beauty and lively, summer fun.
The exhibit kicks off on Friday with a preview showing throughout the day. In the evening, neighboring Prospect Hill Antiques and Art Gallery will be hosting a preview party along with Hoptimystic Brewing. It is an excellent opportunity to meet some of the artists, browse Prospect Hill’s antiques and art, and enjoy delicious appetizers with a craft beer or glass of wine.
“Not only does this event promise to be lots of fun but it will raise funds for the rapidly growing number of CFA programs for adults, children, and teens,” says Dena. After years of living virtually, CFA recently found a home on Main Street in New London. The space includes a gallery for ongoing displays and lectures plus a studio/ classroom for educational programs. “Our new home expands the possibilities for classes and groups. We’re very excited and looking forward to broadening our program offerings,” says Dena. Tickets for the Preview Party and Fundraiser will be available online in advance and at the door.
Dena encourages people to reserve their tickets early. “We don’t want anyone to miss out.”
LOTS TO SEE AND DO
Saturday mornings are always a great time to visit the Harbor but July 12 will provide a double, make that triple, dose of fun. In addition to The Livery show, visitors can shop at the farmers’ market and then browse the tents at Arts in the Harbor. This one-day, outdoor juried show features an eclectic array of art and fine crafts. From photography to pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, and metal work, there is a wide range of styles and wares.
The opening reception for Naturally New England is Saturday evening. This event takes place at The Livery and is free and open to the public. “It’s an excellent chance to see the art, meet some of the artists, and reconnect with friends and neighbors after the long New Hampshire winter,” says Dena.
On Sunday, everyone is encouraged to return to the Harbor and surrounding area to catch some of the artists at work en plein air. It is a special experience to watch a painter’s process and technique in action. A map of the various artists’ locations will be provided and all works will be available for sale at the end of the day.
On Sunday evening, the celebrations continue. CFA will be screening Jim Westphalen’s documentary film Vanish. This visually stunning film chronicles the rapidly disappearing rural landscape and way of life. His work shows a special affinity for the decaying barns and other agricultural structures found throughout rural America. This event is free and open to the public.
The final event tied to Naturally New England is Saturday evening, July 19 at The Livery. Behind the Lyrics: Discover the Stories Behind the Music is an evening of storytelling with singer/songwriters Tom Pirozolli, Click Horning, Grace Rapetti, and Colin Nevins. Each musician will explain their approach to songwriting, their
A local landscape painting is the perfect souvenir to remember your Lake Sunapee region vacation. Charming shops like the Wild Goose Country Store await you. Arts in the Harbor features the work of many fine local craftsmen.
process, and the inspiration behind specific songs that they will then share with the audience. If you haven’t already, take a moment before or after the event or during a break to admire the Naturally New England artwork. This event is free and open to the public.
Whether you visit during Arts Week or any week, be sure to drop by the many shops, sample the restaurants and snack bars, and enjoy a lazy day in the Harbor. y
PASTA PERFECT, PICNIC READY
hot or cold, pasta and zoodles are easy and delicious
ZOODLES WITH SHRIMP
Serves 4
COOKS' CORNER BY
DANA JOHNSON
SUMMER IS THE SEASON WE WANT TO SERVE light, refreshing meals. These pasta recipes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for those warm summer days when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick and tasty meal, these pasta recipes are sure to impress and satisfy.
This healthy, one-pan meal is low carb and packed with flavor.
3 Tbsp olive oil
3 tsp minced garlic
3 medium zucchini, spiralized Salt and pepper, to taste
1 lb fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish: Crushed red pepper to taste and fresh chopped parsley
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute for one minute.
2. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until slightly tender. Season with salt and pepper, remove to a separate platter, and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until heated through and pink.
4. Add zoodles back to skillet, along with Parmesan cheese. Gently toss to coat and remove from heat. Serve immediately. Garnish with crushed red pepper and chopped parsley.
PENNE WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATOES, ROASTED GARLIC, AND CHICKEN
Use leftover roasted chicken for this easy dinner. Serves 6 to 8
5 cups chopped fresh spinach
1 lb uncooked penne
1 cup sliced oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes plus 1 Tbsp oil from jar
1 small chopped yellow onion
2 tsp minced garlic
2 Tbsp roasted garlic
1 tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp crushed red pepper
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan, plus more to serve
2 cups leftover roasted chicken
1. Place chopped spinach in a colander in sink. Cook penne in boiling salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup cooking water; drain pasta over spinach. Set aside.
2. Heat sun-dried tomato oil in stockpot over medium-high. Add sliced sun-dried tomatoes and
chopped onion; cook, stirring often, until tender, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic, roasted garlic, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper; cook 1 minute.
3. Add heavy cream; cook about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in pasta, spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded chicken.
5. Add reserved pasta water gradually until pasta is saucy.
6. Season to taste with kosher salt; serve with additional Parmesan.
HOW TO ROAST GARLIC
Trim the top off an unpeeled garlic head to expose the cloves. Place on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and wrap tightly in the foil. Place on a baking sheet and bake until soft, about 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven, open the foil, and let stand for 10 minutes before squeezing the cloves into a bowl.
ORZO SALAD WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATOES
Serves 8
This pasta salad is a perfect side dish or light meal on its own.
2 qt water
½ tsp salt
1 lb orzo pasta
½ lb kalamata olives, pitted and halved
½ cup diced onion
12 oz sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
1 cup fresh spinach
3 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
½ tsp ground black pepper
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp lemon juice
Grated zest from 1 lemon
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup chopped walnuts
1. In a heavy saucepan, bring water and salt to boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions.
2. When pasta is cooked, drain well and transfer to a large serving bowl.
3. Add olives, onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil to the orzo and mix well.
4. Add remaining ingredients and toss gently. Serve at room temperature.
Serves 4
1 1lb box elbow macaroni or rotini (twists)
1 cup chopped red onion
1 cup chopped celery
½ cup chopped red and green bell peppers
1 cup sugar
1 pint mayonnaise
1 cup water
½ cup vinegar
½ tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp salt
1. Cook macaroni according to package directions.
2. Mix remaining ingredients and pour over noodles.
3. Let sit overnight. Stir well before serving. y
MACARONI SALAD
Explore. Investigate. Enjoy. Take the time to see these attractions nearby. Just a short drive from where you live, each one makes a wonderful day trip this summer.
Vermont
BILLINGS FARM & MUSEUM
A place to try new things! Explore our working dairy farm and meet our Jersey cows, sheep, draft horses, chickens, goats, and pigs. Enjoy the dynamic daily programs, Farm Life Exhibits, 1890 Farm Manager’s House, Farmstead Gardens, Billings Farm cheese, Museum Gift Shop, and Farmhouse Scoop Shop. For hours, admission, and to learn more about events, programs, and exhibitions, visit our website.
Route 12N & Old River Road, Woodstock (802) 457-2355 www.billingsfarm.org
ARTISTREE
Artistree is a nonprofit arts organization with the mission to promote the creation, exhibition, and appreciation of art in Vermont and New England. With yearround exhibits and annual calls to artists, the work displays the boundless creative talent of local artists. Located in beautiful South Pomfret. For gallery hours and more information, visit Artistree’s website.
2095 Pomfret Road, South Pomfret (802) 457-3500 artistreevt.org
BENNINGTON MUSEUM
Explore the rich culture of southern Vermont and surrounding regions in all its forms from the 18th century to the present through exhibitions and programs for all ages on our 10-acre campus in Bennington. Learn about the Revolutionary War, the Gilded Age, and Bennington Modernism. See the world’s largest collection of Grandma Moses, an original Martin WASP Touring Car, the famous Jane Stickle Quilt, and the oldest Stars and Stripes in existence. Research your family’s history in the Museum’s library, and stay late on a summer night to catch a free outdoor concert! Bennington Museum has something for everyone.
Day
KING
ARTHUR BAKING COMPANY
75 Main Street, Bennington Exit 13 off I-91 (802) 447-1571 www.benningtonmuseum.org Check our website for hours, admission, and general visitor information.
Visit King Arthur Baking Company for all things baking! Our retail store has all your baking essentials, from top-quality ingredients to tools, mixes, pans, and more. Enjoy a delicious meal or treat highlighting local and seasonal ingredients from our bakery and cafe or take a class at our Baking School. King Arthur Baking Company was founded in 1790 and is 100 percent employee owned.
135 Route 5 South, Norwich (802) 649-3361
www.kingarthurbaking.com
Open daily
WOODSTOCK HISTORY CENTER
We endeavor to enrich lives and enhance our understanding of the unique place that is Woodstock. We offer a variety of local educational opportunities and serve as a resource for historical research. We are located in the heart of the Village of Woodstock next to the Ottauquechee River, with outstanding views of the Middle Covered Bridge and Mount Tom.
26 Elm Street, Woodstock (802) 457-1822
www.woodstockhistorycenter.org
AMERICAN PRECISION MUSEUM
Step back in time in an 1846 Armory building. This is the birthplace of the American System of Manufacturing that would flow down through the Precision Valley. Come see a progression of machines from the 1840s up to today’s technology. Check our website for special events and hands-on activities for all ages.
196 Main Street (Route 5), Windsor (802) 674-5781
www.americanprecision.org
Open 10am–5pm daily (May 1–Oct 31)
ST. JOHNSBURY ATHENAEUM
The St. Johnsbury Athenaeum is a cultural gem on Main Street in St. Johnsbury. Built by Horace Fairbanks in 1871, the Athenaeum is the town’s free public library, art gallery, and lecture hall. The Art Gallery is the oldest unaltered gallery in the country and contains many 19th century works of art. The Gallery is focused on Hudson River School paintings, including the massive Domes of the Yosemite by Albert Bierstadt.
1171 Main Street, St. Johnsbury (802) 748-8291
www.stjathenaeum.org
Events & Exhibits: (802) 765-4288
Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–3pm Gardens and grounds always open!
VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE / VINS NATURE CENTER
Join us for an unforgettable family-friendly experience at the VINS Nature Center. Deepen your understanding of wild birds and natural wonders through our Forest Canopy Walk, scenic trails, and Live Raptor Programs. Explore interactive exhibits, discover our natural playground, and visit our nature store. Visit vinsweb.org for details and special events.
Admission: adults $19.50; youth $16.50. Free for members and children under 3 years old.
Quechee
Norwich White River Junction
Woodstock Chester
Windsor Reading
Thetford
Strafford
Barre
Groton
Bellows Falls
Trippers New Hampshire
HOOD MUSEUM OF ART, DARTMOUTH
Explore 16,000 square feet of gallery space that highlights art from across the globe. Visit the galleries, attend a program, or explore public art across the Dartmouth campus. In 2025, the Hood Museum is commemorating its 40th anniversary with landmark exhibitions, loans, and innovative programs that support a visionary future for art at Dartmouth and the communities of the Upper Valley region of New Hampshire and Vermont. Always free and open to all.
6 East Wheelock Street, Hanover hoodmuseum.dartmouth.edu
Wed 11am–5pm
Thu–Fri 11am–8pm Sat 10am–5pm
ENFIELD SHAKER MUSEUM
Experience the Shakers’ legacy through tours of historic buildings and fascinating exhibits. Watch a traditional craft demonstration, wander through the Museum’s herb garden, hike 1,500+ acres of conservation land once owned by the Shakers, or register for one of many on-site programs for all ages. You can even book a room for the night or rent the entire site for your special event.
Open mid-May through October. Visit our website for hours, programs, and tours.
THE LAKE QUEEN DINNER BOAT AND THE MV SUNAPEE II TOUR BOAT
Enjoy beautiful Lake Sunapee on either of our two boats, the MV Sunapee Lake Queen dinner boat for an evening dinner cruise or the MV Sunapee II for an afternoon tour around the lake. Both boats are available for charter.
Town Dock, Sunapee Harbor (603) 938-6465 www.sunapeecruises.com
MT. KEARSARGE INDIAN MUSEUM
Visit the museum, which curates seven regions of North America. Study and explore 600 Native nations. Enjoy a short nature walk through Medicine Woods Trail on our 12.5-acre campus and learn about the trees and plants Native Americans used for food, shelter, and medicine. Explore the arboretum, which has 75 varieties of trees and is open to visitors. We have recently been recognized as one of the top 10 Native American museums in the USA. One Circle, 1,000 Stories. Experience It!
18 Highlawn Road, Warner (603) 456-2600 indianmuseum.org
Open May through October!
See website for hours, special events, and info.
THE ICE HOUSE MUSEUM
A hands-on museum for “kids” of all ages! Not just an Ice House, but seven buildings loaded with local memorabilia, along with restored antique cars (and a fire engine), bicycles, toys, games, signs, and machines of many kinds. One visit will not be enough.
91 Pleasant Street, New London www.wfkicehouse.org
Memorial Day–Columbus Day Tue–Thu 9am–4pm, Sat 9am–2pm
JOHN HAY ESTATE AT THE FELLS ON LAKE SUNAPEE
Discover the 1891 summer retreat of diplomat and statesman John M. Hay. Explore renowned gardens and woodland trails. Tour the historic 22-room Colonial Revival home. Enjoy educational programs, events, summer concerts, art galleries, and outdoor sculpture exhibits.
Grounds: Open daily dawn to dusk Main House: Open June–October
THE NEW LONDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Now listed in the State Register of Historic Places, the New London Historical Society has 15 buildings to visit. These buildings include a schoolhouse, country store, blacksmith shop, a 1825 house with an attached barn, a meeting house, and a transportation building with a fabulous collection of restored vehicles including an Abbott and Downing coach. Certain buildings are available for rent as well. More information is listed on the website.
179 Little Sunapee Road, New London (603) 526-6564
info@newlondonhistoricalsociety.org Sun 1–4pm, June–October and by private tour.
LIBRARY ARTS CENTER
The Library Arts Center is a nonprofit community arts center founded in 1967 with a mission of making the arts accessible to everyone. Located in the heart of downtown Newport, the Arts Center presents community arts events, classes, workshops, concerts, performances, and a full schedule of exhibits annually. Summer offerings include performances for kids, drop-in art projects under the tent, studio art classes for all ages, a music class for toddlers and preschoolers, yoga in the gallery, and art kits to go. For gallery hours and a schedule of programs, visit the Arts Center’s website.
58 North Main Street, Newport (603) 863-3040 libraryartscenter.org
Jackie Rocha
Photo by Ben Flythe.
BY MARY GOW 6 PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAINT-GAUDENS BY ROB STRONG/DON FREEMAN GROUP
EXCEPT WHERE NOTED
INTRODUCING JACKIE ROCHA
SAINT-GAUDENS MEMORIAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Jackie Rocha knows firsthand what a good “friends organization” can do with a National Park. In her 15-year tenure at The Statue of Liberty–Ellis Island Foundation, Jackie had a central role in helping thousands upon thousands of people explore their family stories and learn about United States immigration history. She also had a key role in developing The Statue of Liberty Museum Founders Registry—a fundraising initiative that helped make the museum a reality. It opened in 2019.
Atrium with Augustus SaintGaudens’s Amor Caritas, 1880–98; cast 1975.
This past winter, Jackie started her tenure as the first full-time executive director of the Saint-Gaudens Memorial in Cornish, New Hampshire. With her depth in museum management, dedication to the power of storytelling, and skills and strategies for foundation development and sustainability, Jackie is looking ahead at the Memorial’s second century of celebrating Augustus SaintGaudens’s legacy.
Although on a smaller scale than The Statue of Liberty–Ellis Island Foundation, the Memorial has a parallel role—a nonprofit foundation augmenting the park’s work and providing enriching experiences and resources as its founders intended. Unlike the US National Park Service, a friends organization can seek grants and raise funds for its projects.
MUSIC AND ART
The Saint-Gaudens Memorial underwrites a robust schedule of programming every summer. The Sunday concert series is a local favorite. Eight concerts this summer range from classical and the music of Belize to Mexican violinists, the Villalobos Brothers. Contemporary artists Zenovia Toloudi (the 2024 SaintGaudens Fellow) and Sue McNally both have exhibitions there. Concerts and exhibitions are free, except for the park entry fee or membership. Sculptor in residence Davis Fandiño is leading sculpture workshops. The Saint-Gaudens Fellowship, with a monetary grant as well as exhibition, is presented annually to an emerging artist. The 2025 fellow is Sarah Peters.
“Many people assume that because this is a National Park that it is all federal and all funded, but that is not the case,” Jackie says. “I want to ensure our sustainability. My role is to create a more concerted comprehensive development plan. The philanthropic piece is so important for all nonprofits. It’s a combination of the heart and mind,” she says.
LEARNING AND SHARING A LEGACY
Jackie comes to Saint-Gaudens Memorial with long local ties. From childhood, she came to Sunapee with her family for vacations. After they relocated there, she studied at and graduated from Kearsarge Regional High School. Interested in museum management from a young age, her first job was at Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum.
After her years at The Statue of Liberty–Ellis Island Foundation, she moved into a senior development position with American Ancestors. Wanting to be closer to family in New Hampshire, she most recently was with the Handel and Haydn Society in Boston.
At Saint-Gaudens, she looks forward to learning more about the sculptor and the Cornish Colony. “I would be very grateful to anyone who can share stories with me about their time here, stories their grandfather may have told,” says Jackie.
Little Studio and Mount Ascutney from the formal gardens.
Jackie does not have specific new proposals yet. “Wouldn’t it be lovely to have book club gatherings and lemonade on Aspet’s front porch?” she asks, also noting the importance of digitizing the 60,000 items in the collections to be accessible to the public, and even improving the irrigation system for the grounds.
“We are going to be reaching out more to the public, letting people know we are here and letting them know that they can make an impact. If 100 donors gave $5 each, that would pay for tuning the piano—and our piano had belonged to Maxfield Parrish,” she states. And $2,000 to $4,000 can pay for a concert. “I want people to know that this park is here and has something for everybody,” Jackie says.
AUGUSTUS SAINT-GAUDENS
Abraham Lincoln stands before a stately chair, face contemplative, poised as though he is about to deliver a speech. This larger-than-life bronze by Augustus SaintGaudens stands in Lincoln Park, Chicago—and in London’s Parliament Square and in Parque Lincoln in Mexico City.
Opposite top and bottom: Plaster Room, Little Studio. Augustus Saint-Gaudens, Adams Memorial, 1886–91; cast 1968. Abraham Lincoln: The Man also known as Standing Lincoln, 1885–1887, cast 2016.
Left: Jackie Rocha stands in front of Augustus SaintGaudens’s Monument to Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, 1884–97; cast 1997. Photo by CPerry Photography.
Below: Augustus SaintGaudens, Admiral David Glasgow Farragut Monument, 1877–80; cast 1994, on original bluestone base.
In Madison Square Park in New York, the realism of Saint-Gaudens’s bronze of Civil War naval hero Admiral David Farragut is so stunning that viewers may note that as he stands braced as though on a ship’s deck, one button on his billowing coat is unfastened.
At the edge of Boston Common, the bronze relief memorial of Robert Gould Shaw and the Massachusetts 54th Regiment pays homage to one of the first Black regiments in the American Civil War.
Full-size bronze castings of these and other landmark monuments by Augustus Saint-Gaudens are among more than 60,000 items in the collections of the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park in Cornish, New Hampshire. For over a century, this historic site has preserved, protected, and interpreted cultural resources associated with SaintGaudens. Now, a partnership of the Park Service and the Saint-Gaudens Memorial, its founding organization, it is a living tribute, furthering the spirit of Saint-Gaudens’s life and work by promoting the arts with exhibitions, special events, and programs.
FROM APPRENTICE TO MONUMENTAL ARTIST
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, internationally renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens advanced public art in the United States. Often dealing with Civil War heroes, his monumental work contributed to the emerging national identity and narrative of American history. A master of small-scale sculpture, his breathtakingly detailed tiny reliefs for coins and medals included $10 and $20 gold pieces he designed at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt—coins whose imagery of a striding figure of Liberty evokes American icons and values.
Born in Dublin in 1848, Saint-Gaudens was transplanted to New York City in his first year with his immigrant parents, a French shoemaker father and an Irish mother. At 13 years old, he apprenticed to a cameo-cutter and began art classes.
Saint-Gaudens studied art in Paris and architecture in Rome. At age 26 he won his first major commission—for the Admiral Farragut Memorial. The commission sufficed for Augusta Fisher Homer’s father to allow him to marry his daughter.
THE JOURNEY TO CORNISH
Based in New York for most of his career with sojourns in Europe, in 1885 SaintGaudens visited New York friends who had purchased a farm in Cornish. SaintGaudens was working on his Lincoln at the time. The friend reportedly remarked that in New Hampshire he would find many “Lincoln-shaped men.”
In 1891, Saint-Gaudens purchased the Federal-style home next door to the friends. Although at first in terrible shape, it had sweeping views and a barn that served well as a studio. He named it Aspet after the birthplace of his father.
Saint-Gaudens’s presence in Cornish, his ongoing work and assistants in his studio, and his network of friends in the arts led more creative people to the area—American novelist Winston Churchill, dancer Isadora Duncan, and painter Maxfield Parrish among them. This creative hub became
known as the Cornish Colony. Aspet was Saint-Gaudens’s primary home from 1900 to his death in 1907.
A LASTING TRIBUTE
The Saint-Gaudens Memorial was initiated after his death by his wife Augusta. She wanted to establish a lasting tribute to him, a memorial open to the public with a substantial collection of his artwork that would nurture rising sculptors and would foster appreciation of the art of sculpture.
Augusta Saint-Gaudens left the Cornish house, property, and collections to a trust for this purpose. But her gift was contingent on establishment of a $100,000 endowment to assure that it was sustainable. Established in 1919, the endowment was finally fully funded in 1926, thanks to friends and fans of the artist and the Upper Valley community.
The Saint-Gaudens Memorial welcomed thousands of visitors during summers from the 1920s. Trustees acquired important works to expand the collections, including castings of monumental pieces. After SaintGaudens’s studio burned, the Memorial built the New Gallery and colonnaded Atrium, both dedicated in 1948. That year they launched the exhibition program. Saint-Gaudens loved music, so summer public concerts started in 1952.
In 1964, the Memorial transferred the property and collections to the National Park Service. The Memorial continues as a partner with the National Park Service, continuing extensive programming—a lively summer schedule of Sunday concerts, educational programs, exhibitions, and more. As Augusta wished, the “living legacy of Augustus Saint-Gaudens as a creative artist and cultural role model” endures. y
Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park 139 Saint-Gaudens Road Cornish, NH www.saint-gaudens.org
Thursday–Monday 9am– 4:30pm, May 22–October 31
Visitor Pass $10, Annual Pass $40
BY PAMELA BROWN
PHOTOS
COURTESY OF FORE-U GOLF CENTER
OUTDOOR FUN FOR ALL
make a day of it at fore-u golf center
It’s all about golf and outdoor fun at Fore-U Golf Center. Located in West Lebanon, the family-owned and -operated center has been a mainstay in town for years. “Our family has owned Fore-U Golf for 41 seasons, and it’s the 28th season since my sister Jennifer and I joined ownership,” says Meredith Johnson. Both Meredith and Jennifer are Lebanon natives. “Fore-U is a fun center that focuses on the love of the outdoors, sports, entertainment, and quality time spent with friends and family. We’re proud of the changes we’ve made and are lucky to provide such a great place for recreation for the community.”
Fore-U Golf Center’s 36 holes of well-landscaped miniature golf provide the perfect outing. The 52-bay double-decked driving range helps customers improve their games. The playground at Ice Cream Fore-U provides a great place for children while the whole family enjoys their sweet treats.
TRY A GAME OF MINI GOLF
A main attraction is the facility’s two scenic 18-hole miniature golf courses—Alpine Adventure and River Run. Both were upgraded last year with new carpeting. “Alpine Adventure winds up and around a hill and through a cave at the top, making it more challenging. River Run circles around the perimeter of Alpine and is flatter, so it’s slightly less challenging. This course has a river theme and it’s adjacent to our koi and goldfish pond. There are fountains and colorful flowers,” they say. River Run is ADA accessible.
All the obstacles feature a natural theme—a flower garden, a pond, a challengingly placed rock, and several holes with water hazards. “Both courses offer a hole that requires you to either use the stream and go through a log or avoid the water and keep it on the carpet,” says Meredith, noting hole 14 on Alpine Adventure is a favorite. “It goes through the cave. There’s a window that allows you to look out over the course through the waterfall. Number 17 is a double-level hole—you need to get your ball in one of the holes on the top level to reach the bottom.”
Two mini golf courses offer a fun challenge. Ice Cream Fore-U serves up hard serve, soft serve, shakes, sundaes, and more.
Baseball enthusiasts will enjoy three newly revamped batting cages.
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS OR JUST HAVE FUN
Golfers can test and upgrade their game by practicing their driving skills at the center’s 52-bay double-decker driving range (26 covered) and 10 additional grass tee stations. Clubs are available for rental. “The driving range serves different purposes for different people. Avid golfers work on their swing and improve their game. Novices and people who don’t play use it as a place to meet friends and for a social outing. Some use it for exercise, while others come to start learning the sport,” explains Meredith, noting it offers a minimal time commitment.
Players of all ages and abilities can work with the center’s Director of Golf Peter Harris, a PGA golf professional, who offers clinics for all types of golfers in addition to private and group lessons. “Peter has been with us since 2011. He loves growing the game of golf. He’s been working in the golf industry his whole life and has more than two decades of experience teaching. He’s also an expert at club fitting. He’s devoted to staying current in his methods and exploring new options and technology to aid in his ability to make all his students the very best golfers they can be,” she says.
Baseball buffs will appreciate the center’s three new batting cages. “We revamped our existing batting cages to offer a bit more space to accommodate batters of all sizes. We installed levers so batters can adjust the height of the pitches in each cage and tried to improve the systems to make them more reliable,” says Meredith. New nets and pitching machines were added.
A TASTY REWARD
The Ice Cream Fore-U Stand serves up more than 50 hard-serve flavors and can make dozens of soft-serve flavors. Popular softserve flavors include chocolate, vanilla, black raspberry, and maple. “We have lots of ice cream options as well such as shakes, sundaes, banana boats, brownie sundaes, floats, flurries, and Bogey’s Biscuits, which are a sweet treat for your furry friends.” Also, there are rotating flavors of yogurt, sorbet, and
dairy-free options. The menu also includes hot dogs and chips, smoothies, eight rotating flavors of Italian ice, slushies, fountain soda, and Popsicles. Nearby is a playground for kids, covered seating under tents, beautiful gardens, a large picnic area, and a walking path.
GROWING THE FAMILY BUSINESS
According to Meredith, the center has had various iterations over the years. “Our dad, Peter Johnson, started the driving range in 1984 that operated out of a garden shed. It officially became Fore-U in 1995 and was comprised of a driving range, 18-hole mini golf, and a 9-hole par-3 course. During that phase, our brother Mark was part of the ownership along with our dad and our uncle Paul,” she explains. Peter previously ran Johnson’s Home Center until the mid 1990s and helped develop a significant portion of this section of Route 12A.
“In 1998, Jen was getting out of teaching in Hartland and I was graduating from Dartmouth. Having both worked at Fore-U since we were 15, our uncle was impressed with our work ethic, and it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up. We bought out our brother’s share with our dad and since then, we’ve each owned a third of the business.” Meredith and Jennifer added the ice cream stand in 1998. “This was a labor of love of the area, of being outdoors, of golf, and of family.”
Meredith and Jen’s mission is to provide a safe, family-oriented environment for the community. “It’s our goal to be affordable and to provide a beautiful natural oasis that people love to visit,” they say. “We appreciate everyone who chooses to spend some time here, and we value the relationships we form with our customers and our employees. We hope everyone who visits leaves feeling happier than when they arrived.” y
Fore-U Golf Center
298 Plainfield Road West Lebanon, NH (603) 298-9702 foreugolf.com
Text Angela Thu & Fri 10am–4pm, Sat 10am–2pm Or by appointment
Ear Piercing, Jewelry Repairs, Redesign New and Estate Jewelry
New England Beauty & Wellness
New London–Lebanon, NH (603) 877-0070 www.newenglandbeautyandwellness.com
By appointment only
Life Is Good
207 Main Street
New London, NH (603) 456-8182 www.lig-nl.com
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
Sunapee Shade and Blind
75 Newport Road Suite 101
New London, NH (603) 526-2397
Cell (603) 748-5782 www.SunapeeShade.com
The Oak Room and Parlor Lounge at the Inn at Pleasant Lake
Featuring Certified Black Angus Prime Beef
853 Pleasant Street
New London, NH (603) 873-4833
www.TheOakRoomNH.com
Wed–Sat 5–8:30pm
BY SUSAN B. APEL 6 PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATA SASVARI PHOTOGRAPHY
A WORLD-CLASS HOMECOMING
OAK HILL MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS TO THE UPPER VALLEY
Leah Kohn began what would become her life’s work while she was a thirdgrader at the Ray School in Hanover, New Hampshire. While some of the details of her epiphany-turned-career are a bit blurry, Leah remembers that a wind trio came to the school to perform in an outreach concert. She saw, heard, became enthralled, and scurried home to tell her mother that she wanted to play the bassoon. (In retrospect, she is grateful her mother knew what a bassoon was.) Her parents carted her off to Janet Polk, a local bassoonist and teacher, who welcomed the child’s interest but advised that study would have to wait until Leah’s hands had grown enough to be able to play the instrument. So profound was her disappointment that Leah “burst into tears,” and returned home to wait impatiently. She remembers “drinking my milk” in an effort to hurry the growth process along. Approximately a year later, her wish came true and she began to study the bassoon, her hands still just a tad too small.
Now, a couple of decades later, she and husband Niv Ashkenazi are founders of and performers in the Oak Hill Music Festival, scheduled for June 25 through June 29, 2025, in the Upper Valley. It is the festival’s fourth season, located in a place that is still somewhat home to Leah. While she and Niv live in California, she was raised in Hanover where her parents remain, and her father continues to teach at Dartmouth College. She appreciates the already rich cultural scene in the Upper Valley but wanted to bring something new to the area—a summer chamber music festival with world-class musicians. In 2022, even though constrained by the restrictions of the COVID pandemic, she gathered musicians she knew or who were recommended by colleagues and staged a first concert in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and Norwich, Vermont.
DIVERSITY AND LOCAL TIES
The structure of the festival has remained fairly consistent: three concerts and some open rehearsals that the public is invited to attend for free. Leah often chooses a mix of large and familiar master works and others “that are enjoyable to listen to but perhaps not as well-known.” She appreciates the diversity of the works and the musicians who perform them in ensembles that vary, sometimes as a string quartet, or perhaps as a French reed trio. Since the inaugural festival, a majority of the artists have returned each season, descending upon the Upper Valley for a period of 10 days or so to rehearse and perform. What brings them here? Two of the four musicians interviewed for this article (in addition to Leah) have substantial Upper Valley connections. For his day job, Nick Browne commutes from his home in Montpelier to Dartmouth College, where he is a lecturer of double bass and bass guitar. He appreciates “the opportunity to perform with world-class musicians close to home during the summer,” because of course summer in the Upper Valley is not to be missed. Zach Sheets is a flutist and composer, and a former native of the Upper Valley. In addition to performing, he currently works at Community Music Center of Boston, the largest outside provider of arts education to the Boston public schools, where he’s leading a capital campaign “to own and operate our first-ever permanent cultural facility in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood.”
MAIN CONCERTS
June 25, 7pm
First Congregational Church of Lebanon Brahms Piano Quintet
June 28, 7pm Norwich Congregational Church “Around the World”
June 29, 2pm St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Hanover Schubert Octet
OPEN REHEARSALS
June 23, 2pm
Roth Center for Jewish Life
June 27, 3pm Howe Library
Bottom from left: Matthew Graybil (piano) and Ana Kim (cello). Leah Kohn introduces a piece to the audience. Oak Hill Music Festival string quartet: Niv Ashkenazi and Keiko Tokunaga (violins), Daniel Orsen (viola), and Ana Kim (cello).
Top: Wind players of Oak Hill Music Festival. From left: Zach Sheets (flute), Amanda Hardy (oboe), Leah Kohn (bassoon), Wilden Dannenberg (French horn), and Sérgio Coelho (clarinet).
“Leah has made sure to program some of the wonderful pieces we have discovered while working on the Violins of Hope project and some of these pieces by composers affected by the Holocaust have become audience favorites.”
For him, the Oak Hill performances “are thrilling, live-wire, and joyful. The group of musicians that Leah and Niv have assembled brings a combination of artistry, technical brilliance, and verve that is hard to beat.”
PLAYING MUSIC WITH FRIENDS IN THE WOODS
For other artists, leaving their more urban environments behind is part of the attraction. Daniel Orsen, who plays the viola, describes it simply as a love for “playing chamber music with friends in the woods. It’s as simple as that.” Most of the artists live together in a house rented for the purpose, and more than one speaks of themselves as both colleagues and family, like violinist Keiko Tokunaga, who revealed that they even have family nicknames for each other. (Hers is “Mom.”)
Keiko describes what happens postrehearsal and in between performances: “As a big family of musicians, we look forward to cooking with and for each other at the end of the day. (We take turns being a leader or a follower just like chamber music.) We enjoy getting the freshest produce from a local co-op and/or harvesting herbs and fruits from the garden that is owned by our lovely VRBO hosts. On the days we are too exhausted from rehearsing, we go out and check out the local restaurants and occasionally treat ourselves to ice cream from Dairy Twirl.”
STUNNING, SPECIAL INSTRUMENTS
In addition to the artists are the instruments themselves. Niv Ashkenazi is a rare longterm holder of a violin loaned to him by
Violins of Hope, a project of concerts based on a private collection of World War II–era violins, violas, and cellos. Many of the instruments belonged to Jews before and during the war and were donated by or bought from survivors or family members. The loaned violin itself is reserved for Violins of Hope concerts, but according to Niv, “Leah has made sure to program some of the wonderful pieces we have discovered while working on the Violins of Hope project and some of these pieces by composers affected by the Holocaust have become audience favorites.” And Keiko Tokunaga has her own special instrument: an 1845 Vuillaume violin that she will be playing at the festival. “Playing on an old instrument like that can be an eye-opening experience, because it can easily make the sounds you had been dreaming of (but could not produce). . . . I have been playing on it for a few years now, but I still feel like a kid in a candy store.”
For further information, a complete schedule, and to purchase tickets, check out the festival’s website at oakhillmusicfestival.com. y
Grammy-award-winning violinist Keiko Tokunaga, who has been part of Oak Hill Music Festival since its first season.
TRAVEL TIME
BY LISA BALLARD
BY LISA AND JACK BALLARD
CHETOLA SPORTING RESERVE
SHOOTING SPORTING CLAYS IN THE APPALACHIAN HIGHLANDS
PHOTOGRAPHY
CHETOLA SPORTING RESERVE
The author pulls the trigger at a couple of clay targets as her instructor watches over her shoulder.
My first experience with a shotgun sport was at a Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) program in southern New Hampshire during the late 1980s, when I tried a game called sporting clays. Within a couple of years, I morphed into a serious competitor. There was something addicting about trying to shatter a “clay pigeon” whizzing through the air. Then family and work pulled me in other directions. Shortly after the millennium, I drifted into other pastimes, but my enthusiasm for shooting targets remained. Last summer, 25 years after my last tournament, I finally had the chance to try it again.
WHAT IS SPORTING CLAYS?
Sporting clays is a spinoff from trap shooting. Trap was invented in Great Britain in the early 1800s as a pub game. After a few drinks, patrons would go outside, place bets, and then try to shoot live birds, usually pigeons but also starlings and sparrows. The live birds were kept in cages, or “traps,” which collapsed with the pull of a string, allowing the bird to escape into the air, hence the origin of the command “pull” that is still used today when a shooter is ready for a target.
Over time, the pub game advanced to the use of glass balls filled with feathers. Then, in 1880, George Ligowsky, a shooter from Ohio, got the idea for a target made of clay after watching boys skip seashells. The round shape and hollowed out bottom gave the shells stability as they spun through in the air. Borrowing this shape, Ligowsky baked his first targets similar to bricks, but those original “clay pigeons” proved too difficult to break. He substituted clay with a mixture of limestone and pitch. The limestone discs worked, though shooters continued to call them “clay pigeons.”
As time went on, shooters came up with variations on trap, including sporting clays, which grew in popularity, particularly in England, which hosted the first British Open in 1927. It was finally introduced as competitive sport in the United States in 1980 in Connecticut. A typical course has around a dozen stations laid out across the available terrain. The targets might travel through the woods, over fields or water, or high in the air. The “birds” vary in size, speed, direction, and elevation. The appeal comes
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY
from the unique scenery of the course and variation in target presentations. Whereas trap and skeet courses are always the same, you never know what the targets will be like in sporting clays until you arrive at each station.
CHETOLA SPORTING RESERVE
My reacquaintance with sporting clays happened unexpectedly at the Chetola Resort in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. This 175-year-old lakefront resort caters to an outdoorsy clientele. It’s one of only two Orvisendorsed fishing lodges in North Carolina. What’s more, it sits below the tallest mountains in the Appalachians, which also makes it a comfy basecamp for ambitious hikers. My husband Jack and I were there to fish and hike, not shoot, but when we checked in, the front desk clerk asked us if we wanted to reserve a time for sporting clays. “Of course!” I blurted excitedly, though secretly I wondered if I could hit a target anymore.
The sporting clays course was part of the Chetola Sporting Reserve, a private shooting club that’s open to members and resort guests. Added in 2016, the club is on a separate tract of land several miles down the road from the main resort. In addition to a 13-station sporting clays course, it has 5-Stand (shooters rotate through five stations that are side by side); 27 miles of hiking and ATV trails; and rifle, pistol, and archery ranges. The sporting clays course takes up 20 of the reserve’s 67 wooded acres.
Grayson Jones, one of Chetola’s shooting instructors, greeted us as we entered the clubhouse. “Do you have your own shotguns?” he asked. We didn’t, so he showed us a couple of Berettas and a Caeser Guerini, all 12 gauges. “We’ve got 20 gauges, too, if you like,” he added. Both gauges are commonly used for sporting clays. Jack chose
Top: A view of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina from the famous Blue Ridge Parkway near Chetola Resort.
Left: A shooter breaks a sporting clays target going away from him toward the woods.
TRAVEL TIME
one of the Berettas since that brand typically fit him well. I chose the Ceaser Guerini. It was a beautiful gun with a polished wooden stock and ornate engravings on the metal above the trigger.
Next, Grayson asked about our shooting backgrounds. I mentioned my distant history with sporting clays. Jack had tried it a couple of times. In addition, we were both upland bird and waterfowl hunters. Each summer, we shot a few rounds of skeet to get ready for the fall. “I think you should warm up with a round of 5-Stand,” suggested Grayson. After outfitting us with ear and eye protection, he led outside to the 5-Stand range just beyond the clubhouse deck.
TIME TO TRY 5-STAND
5-Stand resembles sporting clays in that the clay pigeons come from various directions and at various speeds and elevations, but instead of moving around a course on the landscape, shooters rotate through five stations that are side by side, shooting five targets at each station. I stepped into the far left shooting box, a low wooden platform with four posts holding up a small roof. The front of the box had a waist-high wall with a sill just wide enough to place a box of shotgun shells. Jack got in the box to my right.
Looking around, I could see a half-dozen traps positioned amidst the shrubs in front of us, each with a letter in front of it. One trap was on the ground slightly behind us to my left. After a preview of each target, it was my turn first.
A small sign stapled to the left pole told me the order of the targets:
AB-E Report Pair
C-D Pair
“Pull!” I shouted. A disc from the A-trap sped from left to right, 10 feet off the ground. Bang! It broke. Encouraged, I shouted, “Pull!” again. A disc from the B-trap zoomed toward me about 30 feet in the air. Bang! But the disc kept on coming, untouched, as the E-trap, the one on the ground to my left, immediately released its disc on the sound (report) of my gun. It sped away from me at a slight angle. Bang! No luck again, as the fully intact disc disappeared into the foliage.
“Keep the gun moving,” advised Grayson, watching over my shoulder. “Pull!” The C and D traps simultaneously released a clay pigeon. Both flew through the air, crossing right to left, one lower and slightly ahead of other. Bang! Bang! A shard of orange broke off the bottom target, but not the top one. “You hit the bottom one,” cheered Grayson.
A BRIEF GUIDE TO SHOTGUN SPORTS
TRAP: The clay targets all come from a central, low trap house, going away from the shooter. Shooters move from station to station (eight total stations) around a semicircle, which changes the angle of each shot. In addition, the trap oscillates left and right, also changing the trajectory of the clay disc. One round = 25 shots.
SKEET: Shooters move from station to station (eight total stations) around a semicircle, similar to trap. At each station, shooters take two to four shots from a “high house” on the left and a “low house” on the right. The targets are the same, but changing shooting stations changes the angle. One round of skeet = 25 shots.
5-STAND: Shooters typically take five shots at each of five “stands” that are in a line. The clay targets are thrown from several different traps for a mix of target presentations. One round = 25 shots.
SPORTING CLAYS: Often called “golf with a shotgun,” the course uses the terrain and the positioning of the traps to throw the clay targets at different angles, elevations, and speeds. The number of shots at each station can vary from 4 to 10. One round = 50 or 100 shots.
Left: One of the stands on the sporting clays course that looks toward a small field.
Opposite center: A shooter tries for a target that’s going away from him similar to a fleeing gamebird.
Opposite bottom: The author and her instructor make a plan inside the clubhouse at the Chetola Sporting Reserve.
Below: Sporting clays at the Chetola Sporting Reserve.
“You were behind the upper one.” Jack fared better than me, breaking four of his first five targets. As we worked our way through the five stands, we both got more comfortable with the variability of the targets and the timing of when to shoot. Grayson declared us ready for the sporting clays course.
SPORTING CLAYS
From the clubhouse, the sporting clays course was laid out like an upside-down U. We would work our way up the left side, across the top, then down the right side. At the first station, Jack volunteered to go first and stepped into the shooting stand, as Grayson picked up the button that would release the clay pigeons. Unlike 5-Stand in which every shot varies, in sporting clays, the pattern repeats for as many shots as you have at a station. In this case, Jack would have a chance to hit four pairs of targets quartering from left to right, eight “birds”
in total. He got five of the eight, then I matched him, a solid start.
We headed up the hill to the next station. “This one is called a springing teal,” said Grayson. “You’ll get a report pair, the same target both times. The second will release on the report of the gun. Try to hit them at their highest point, before they start dropping.” He pressed the button to show us the target, which sprang 40 feet straight into the air from behind a bush, then hollered “Bang,” mimicking a gun shot. The second target sprang into the air similar to the first.
I stepped into the shooting box and readied myself. “Pull!” Bang! The disc shattered against the sky as the second target jumped up. Bang! “Got it!” I exclaimed excitedly, then missed the next three pairs. Sporting clays can be maddening that way.
At the next station, we tried our luck on “rabbits.” On “pull,” targets bounced across the ground about 20 yards in front
of the shooting stand. At another station, the orange discs flew in an arc rather than racing straight through the air. Some “birds” came at us. Others flew away from us. At the most difficult station, they launched off a tower, soaring high overhead at a deceptively fast speed. “Lead it by the length of a school bus and keep your gun moving,” instructed Grayson. It was odd to pull the trigger so far ahead of the target, but it worked. How pleasing to watch that one bust into pieces!
A couple of hours and 100 targets later, we were back at the clubhouse. Jack was eager to shoot more clays, and I was happy to try my old pastime again. Hitting those orange discs was a real delight, and missing them only made me want to try again. Sporting clays was a blast in every sense of the word! y
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
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
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
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
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.
Tuckerbox
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!
BY PAMELA BROWN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARS BLACKMORE
VALLEY Floors
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS OFFERS QUALITY AND EXPERIENCE
FLOORS ARE AN IMPORTANT DESIGN ELEMENT IN A HOME, and no one knows that more than Ryan Chase. His family has been in the industry since opening Valley Floors in Bradford, Vermont, in 1981. “I don’t feel like I’m carrying on a legacy. I enjoy the opportunity to steer Valley Floors to the next level through growth and expanding our offerings,” says Ryan, who purchased the business from his father Dean in 2019.
The full-service, family-owned specialty flooring store features a 3,000-square-foot showroom of product displays and sample installations. A one-stop shop, it offers sales and installation of a wide spectrum of floor coverings, including carpet, hardwood (prefinished and unfinished), laminate, cork, tile (ceramic and natural stone), Marmoleum (a natural linoleum), and vinyl products (sheet, tile, and plank). All products are from leading laminate manufacturers and top carpet brands.
“Our carpets run from run-of-the-mill to high-end wool manufacturers, such as Masland. We have millrun or custom long length made to specifications, plus we do a brisk cash-and-carry business because we don’t install everything we sell,” explains Ryan, who works alongside his brother Chris. Also, the store has a team that specializes in finishing and refinishing wood floors.
Left: Ryan Chase, owner of Valley Floors.
Below, from top: The heart of the tile showroom at Valley Floors features natural and manufactured tile and stone. A glimpse into the fully stocked warehouse shows vinyl and carpet remnants and all the supplies required for flooring installations. Entrance into the Tile & Stone showroom.
The Business Spotlight highlights businesses that have been in our community for many years.
from top: Tile and shower glass enclosure vignettes. Valley Floors offers custom-made area rugs by many premier manufactures including Dash & Albert and Stanton.
This page: The enormous Tile & Stone showroom at Valley Floors features quality products from around the world as well as domestic manufacturers
American Olean, Dal Tile, and Fine. Displays include all formats of tile, large as well as small accent rotating displays for kitchen backsplashes and shower floors.
With a focus on friendly, hometown customer service and exceptional quality, Ryan says the company follows business values almost unheard of these days. “You can expect personalized service from our staff. We know that today’s customer and word of mouth is tomorrow’s future. Therefore, we go above and beyond to make sure the customer is not only satisfied but floored by their experience with us,” he says.
The store’s knowledgeable and experienced staff offers in-store design consultations and free estimates. “We stay up to date on industry trends, materials, and installation specifics, as well as maintenance and cleaning guidelines. Our expertise allows our clients
“You can expect personalized
service
from our staff. We know that
word of mouth
today’s customer and
is tomorrow’s future. Therefore, we go above and beyond to make sure the customer is not only satisfied but floored by their experience with us,” says Ryan.
Opposite
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
“We’re also lucky to have Calista, Nancy, Palma, and Aletta working with us; they’re the matriarchs of the Chapman family who have worked in and been around the store for over 70 years.”
to simply chose what they like and sit back while our team brings their vision to reality.”
In addition to flooring, Valley Floors carries window coverings, including Hunter Douglas, Graber, and Norman Window treatments. Another area of specialty is the installation of custom tiled showers and shower glass surrounds. Valley Floors is the exclusive partner for HMI Glass in the Upper Valley. Manufactured in the USA, it offers a variety of glass styles, including custom printed glass and the modern classic, Vista Grid shower. Ryan shares more about the business.
None. We work very well together. My brother and I both worked alongside my father in some capacity through our childhood. Chris installed for decades and now he works in the showroom selling and overseeing. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that there is another family member inside keeping our values close at hand.
Best piece of business advice from your dad?
Pay attention to the small things so they don’t get out of hand. Don’t grow and expand until you continuously do everything well day in and day out, which is nearly impossible, hence the small growth.
What is the value of being a family-owned business?
All decisions are made in the best interests of the employees and community.
What colors/patterns are trending in flooring?
Hard surfaces such as ceramic and hardwood. Custom, unique carpeting is also trending. No more beige or brown—fun, patterned, well-made carpet is still a great way to make one’s home their own. It’s all about unique décor that speaks to one’s taste.
Most common mistake people make when cleaning a floor?
Water and floors don’t mix. Less is more. Don’t drown your floors in water or commercial chemicals. Routine maintenance or cleaning is the best thing you can do. Trap dirt at the door, take your shoes off— it’s floor covering, not concrete.
Are you involved in your community?
I coached youth sports for years. I sit on several boards, including Operation Santa Claus and the Bradford Community Development Corporation as well as own several other properties in town. I was born and raised in this town. Its future and its residents hold a very special place in my heart. I could have relocated to a more populated area, but helping Bradford and employing its residents is very important to me. y
Valley Floors
515 Waits River Road
Bradford, VT
(802) 222-9611
valleyfloorsinc.com
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN LARSON
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS of a BEAR KIND
CONNECTING WITH THE RHYTHMS OF THE WILD IN ALASKA
THE SHORES OF ALASKA
Bears use their powerful sense of smell to locate clams during low tide. Clams are a major food source. Inset left to right: Small planes are the best and sometimes only way to access remote bear habitat. Alaskan brown bear footprints on the beaches of Katmai National Park. A solitary Alaskan brown bear searches for clams on the beach.
HOMER, ALASKA
My trip into the far reaches of Alaska started in Homer. The dock buzzed with life—boats rocking gently in the harbor, gulls crying overhead, and the faint scent of salt and diesel carried on the breeze. I made my way to a small float plane and I was soon in the air above the coastline, its contours revealing a wilderness of tidal flats, braided rivers, and jagged peaks. An hour later, I was standing on the beach of one of the most remote parts of North America, tracks from the largest predator on the continent pressed deep into the sand at my feet, their size a reminder of the creatures that rule this landscape.
When you first see the brown bears of Alaska (Ursus arctos), you are immediately struck by their size and recognize the distinctive shape we associate with grizzly bears. While all grizzlies are brown bears, not all brown bears are grizzlies—a distinction based more on geography and access to food than biology. Grizzlies are a subspecies of brown bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) that live inland, away from the abundance of the coast. Coastal brown bears, like those I observed in Alaska, thrive on a diet of marine resources, including salmon, clams, and the nutrient-rich sedge grass that carpets the nearby meadows.
Alaska’s brown bears are as captivating as they are powerful. During my time in Katmai National Park and the surrounding areas, I was able to observe these massive bears digging for clams along the ocean’s edge, grazing in meadows, napping in the sun, and nursing their cubs. These quieter moments revealed a different side of their lives—one that reflected the rhythm of this untamed place.
Opposite: Homer, Alaska, is a major transportation, freight, and fishing hub.
Left: A sow and her three cubs take advantage of the Alaskan summer light to graze in the sedge grass meadows.
Bottom left and below: Two Alaskan brown bear cubs wrestling.
Bottom right: A solitary male Alaskan Brown bear crosses the river to avoid a female and her cubs.
Watching a sow patiently guide her cubs through a meadow or seeing a solitary male amble along the shore gave me a new appreciation for their adaptability, grace, and intricate ways of communication.
PRESERVATION IS VITAL
Bears are very tuned to their environment through their keen sense of smell. They are also masterful observers, reading body language and subtle cues from other bears. This heightened awareness is key to their survival, allowing them to navigate an environment that is both abundant and unforgiving.
The landscape they inhabit is every bit as dynamic as the bears themselves. Areas like Hallo Bay and Lake Clark National Park are places of contrast: glaciers that groan with slow movement, volcanoes that loom over the land like ancient guardians, and endless shades of green from evergreens to grassy meadows that ripple with the wind. These ecosystems are intricately connected, each element playing a role in the bears’ lives. The tidal flats, for example,
LAKE CLARK NATIONAL PARK
offer a bounty of clams, while the streams and rivers serve as vital arteries for salmon runs that sustain countless species, bears included.
Experiencing this environment comes with responsibility. Observing the bears requires following strict rules that protect both them and us. Visitors travel in small groups, maintain a respectful distance, and move quietly. Feeding the bears or introducing food is strictly forbidden, and running—a natural human reaction to such massive animals—is out of the question. These rules ensure that the bears remain habituated to people in a way that prioritizes their safety and natural behaviors. It’s a delicate balance, one that allows for close encounters without compromising the integrity of their world.
Lake Clark National Park can be reached only by small aircraft or boat.
Left: Brown bears communicate heavily through body language when approaching each other, including eye contact and body positioning.
Opposite:
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
One moment stands out vividly. A bear, belly-deep in a stream, walked right toward me and turned its gaze to meet mine. It wasn’t a look of aggression or curiosity but something softer—an acknowledgment, perhaps, of our shared presence in that moment. I lowered myself to the ground and remained quiet, demonstrating I was not a threat. The bear sat in the water for a moment, almost mimicking me, and then moved upstream. Moments like this remind me why being in nature matters. They’re about more than just the bears; they’re about fostering a connection to the wild and recognizing the importance of preserving it.
The preservation of these bears and their habitat is vital. The sedge
meadows where they graze, the tidal flats where they dig for clams, and the rivers that carry salmon to their spawning grounds form a delicate ecosystem that supports countless species. Protecting these places ensures not only the survival of the bears but also the health of the larger landscape. It’s a responsibility we all share, one that requires both action and awareness.
I’m struck by the lessons these bears have to offer. They embody patience, adaptability, and an unyielding connection to their environment. They remind us of the rhythms of the wild—rhythms that operate on their own terms, indifferent to human timelines. It’s a world worth protecting, not just for the bears but for everything tied to their existence. y
Brown bears communicate heavily through body language when approaching each other, including eye contact and body positioning.
As bears graze sedge grass or hunt for salmon or clams, they stay very aware of other bears or human activity in the area.
39th Army Band Concert with Stevens High School Claremont Opera House, 2pm cohnh.org
August 11
Once a Barnie, Always a Barnie New London Barn Playhouse nlbarn.org
August 14
Printmaking with Botanical Materials Series Part 3 Enfield Shaker Museum, 5:30pm shakermuseum.org
August 15
Impact Children’s Theatre Presents Jack & the Beanstalk Claremont Opera House, 10am cohnh.org
August 15
Plein Air Painting Class with Debbie Campbell
The Fells, 10am thefells.org
August 20
Summer Concert Series: Brooks Hubbard
The Fells, 6pm thefells.org
August 20–31
The Cottage New London Barn Playhouse nlbarn.org
August 21
25th Anniversary Party—National Registry of Historical Places
The Fells, 5pm thefells.org
August 23
Apple Pie Crafts Fair
Newport Town Common, 9am–3pm libraryartscenter.org
August 24
Hand Papermaking with Plants
Enfield Shaker Museum, 10am shakermuseum.org
August 24
Summer Concert Series: JOSA Presents Back Bay Transit
The Fells, 5pm thefells.org
August 26
John Hay: The Prophet, the Author, and the Environmentalist: A Presentation by Dr. Patricia Martin
The Fells, 4:30pm thefells.org
August 27
Summer Concert Series: JD and the Stonemason with Liz and Dan Faiella
The Fells, 6pm thefells.org
Hopkins Center for the Arts
hop.dartmouth.edu
For information, tickets, or pricing information, call (603) 646-2422 or visit hop.dartmouth.edu.
FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
August 6
Las Cafeteras
Dartmouth Green, 5:30pm
August 13
Twisted Pine
Dartmouth Green, 5:30pm
Your New Hop—Opening Fall 2025!
We can’t wait to welcome you into our vibrant center for creation, experimentation, joy, and community right at the heart of the bustling Dartmouth Arts District. In the meantime, visit hop.dartmouth.edu for additional summer programming across the Dartmouth campus.
For years, Willow Brook Builders, LLC has been a trusted name in home remodeling, catering to the discerning needs of the Upper Valley and beyond. Our expertise lies in the art of transforming interiors into extraordinary spaces that harmonize with your unique style. With a specialized focus on kitchen and bath remodeling, additions, and custom cabinetry, we bring sophistication and craftsmanship to every project.
Let Willow Brook Builders redefine your Upper Valley home and turn your dream home into a reality.
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 23).
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 21
APD Lifecare 67
AVA Gallery and Art Center 23
All Eyes on You 68
American Precision Museum 31 & 52
Appletree Opticians 66
Artistree 52
Baker Orthodontics 18
Bar Harbor Wealth Management 19 & 42
Bark N Bath Pet Spa 68
Belletetes 17
Bennington Museum 52
Bethel Mills 71
Big Fatty’s BBQ 86
Billings Farm & Museum 52
Blue Waters Chimney & Fireplace 50
Busy Women Wellness 69
C&S Pizza 87
Cape Air 84
Cappodocia Café 86
Carpet Mill 6
Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center 20
Chapman’s General 24
Claremont Opera House 77
Claremont Savings Bank 71
ClearChoiceMD 3
Colonial Pharmacy 103
Color Café 69
Crown Point Cabinetry Inside back cover
Crown Point Select 7
Dance Arts Academy 51
Davis Frame Co. 13
Donald J. Neely–Hanover Orthodontics 27
Dr. Alla Devitskaya 68
Dr. Dorothy Hitchmoth 70
Dutille’s Jewelry Design Studio 25
Eastern Propane & Oil 21
Enfield Shaker Museum 28 & 53
Eyeglass Outlet 25
Flashphoto 70
Floorcraft 68
Fore-U Golf Center 20
Foremost Builders 76
Foster’s Fine Jewelry 70
Garden at Tracy Library 70
Gilberte Interiors 12
Hanover Eyecare 85
Hanover Road Dental Health 107
Harborside Trading Company 42
Helen’s Place 69
Hood Museum of Art 53
Hubert’s Family Outfitters 68
ADVERTISERS INDEX
Hugo Anderson MFA 68
Ivy IV Aesthetics 106
Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering 104
Jenna Sievers Realtor 39
John Hay Estate at The Fells 53
Junction Frame Shop 86
Key Communications 60
King Arthur Baking Company 52
Lake Morey Resort 9
Lake Shop 44
Lake Sunapee Region Chamber of Commerce 44 & 50
Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice 18
Landforms 31
LaValley Building Supply 8
Lebanon Airport 111
Lebanon Paint & Decorating 29 & 66
Library Arts Center 53
Life is Good 48 & 70
Little Istanbul 26
Loewen Window Center 45
Long River Gallery 87
Love’s Bedding & Furniture 102
Lumber Barn 109
MB Pro Landscape Design 49
MJ Harrington Jewelers 105
MVP Marine 61
Mascoma Dental Associates 51
McGee Hyundai of Lebanon 4
McGray & Nichols 30
Mertens House 111
Millstone at 74 Main Restaurant 70
Montcalm Golf Club 29
Morgan Hill Bookstore 69
Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum 53
NT Ferro Estate & Custom Jewelers 33, 45 & 93
New England Beauty & Wellness 70
New London Bandstand Concerts 32
New London Hospital 41
New London Inn/The Elms 69
New London Opticians 69
Newport Golf Club 76
Omer and Bob’s 108
Prospect Hill 43
Putnam’s Vine/Yard 86
Quail Hollow 107
Ramunto’s Brick Oven Pizza 65
Randolph Area Community Center 93
Real Property Options 103
Redcan 87
Richard Electric 39
Rousseau & Ross 105
Shaker Hill Granite Company 26
Shepherd Realty 68
Simple Energy 98
Soake Pools 5
Springfield Hospital Inside front cover
St. Johnsbury Athenaeum 52
Stacy’s Smoothies 42
Steven Thomas, Inc. 86
Sugar River Bank 27 & 43
Summer Music Associates 108
Summercrest Senior Living 92
Sunapee Cruises 53
Sunapee Farmers’ Market 42
Sunapee Historical Society 43
Sunapee Shade and Blind 61 & 70
Talbot Builders 83
Tatewell Gallery 69
The Cabinet en-Counter 60
The Carriage Shed 11
The Flying Goose Brew Pub & Grille 69
The Hair Station 68
The Ice House Museum 53
The Inn at Pleasant Lake/ The Oak Room 70
The Livery 44
The New London Historical Society 53
The Refinery Restaurant & Market 68
The Tea House Back cover
The Woodstock Gallery 33
Thyme Restaurant 86
Timberpeg 15
Timeless Medical Aesthetics & Wellness 65
Top Stitch Embroidery 50
Tuckerbox 87
Tyler, Simms 92
Upper Valley Business Alliance 108
Upper Valley Food Co-op 87
Upper Valley Haven 104
Upper Valley Pediatric Dentistry 32
VINS 52
Valley Artesian Well Company 2
Valley Regional Hospital 10
Vintage Home Center 51
WISE 106
Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture 67
Walk in Beauty Spa & Wellness 69
Watermark Marine Supply 43
White River Family Eyecare 85
Willow Brook Builders, LLC 110
Woodcrest Village 99
Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce 33
Woodstock History Center 52
Woodstock Inn & Resort 85 & 103
Yankee Barn Homes 1
Moments to remember with family and friends
Send photos of your special moments to dthompson@mountainviewpublishing.com.
Congratulations Corin and Stephanie Craig. Caiti and newborn daughter Ainsley Jo at rest. Ross and Taryn Dutille tie the knot in Bermuda!
Karen enjoys Italy with her mom and sisters.
The Hill family in New York City for the holidays.
