Woodstock Magazine - Summer 2017

SUMMER 2017

|

Vo l u m e 1 7 , N o . 2

Kelly Way Gardens Farm to Table Goodness

Elevation Clothing Rain or Shine Tent & Events

CONTENTS

30 30 Kelly Way Gardens

by Meg Brazill Culinary inspiration for chefs and fresh, organic produce for diners.

38 Elevation Clothing The Prince & The Pauper 46 54 Extraordinary Occasions

by Lauren Seidman Offering thoughtfully chosen, stylish activewear.

46

by Lauren Seidman A combination of ownership and stewardship serves a loyal following.

by Katherine P. Cox Your wedding your way with Rain or Shine Tent and Events.

8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Cover photo of Kelly Way Gardens by Skye Reno.

CONTENTS

28

61

22

In Every Issue

Departments

13 Editor’s Note 14 Contributors 16 Online Exclusives 66 Happenings 71 Advertisers Index 72 Last Glance

18 Everyday Essentials

44

61 Bright Ideas

Tips for healthy living.

22 Around & About

by Cassie Horner

28 Community

The Taste of Woodstock.

Unique Shopping in Woodstock

53

10 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Shop & Dine in and Around Quechee This Summer

by Mark Aiken The Learning Lab.

Mountain View Publishing, LLC 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 643-1830

mountainviewpublishing.com Publishers

Bob Frisch Cheryl Frisch Executive Editor

Deborah Thompson Associate Editor

Kristy Erickson Copy Editor

Elaine Ambrose Creative Director

Ellen Klempner-Beguin Art Director

Brad Wuorinen Ad Design

Hutchens Media, LLC Web Design

Locable Inbound Marketing Manager

Erin Frisch Advertising

Bob Frisch KEEP US POSTED. Woodstock Magazine wants to hear from readers. Correspondence may be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, Woodstock Magazine, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755. Or email us at: dthompson@mountainviewpublishing. com. Advertising inquiries may be made by email to rcfrisch1@comcast. net. Woodstock Magazine is published quarterly by Mountain View Publishing, LLC Š2017. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. Woodstock Magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.

1 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

E D I TO R ’ S N OT E

IAN RAYMOND

Carefree Summer Days With the arrival of summer, we look forward to heading outdoors to enjoy our favorite warmweather activities. While some of us can’t wait to hit area hiking trails, others anticipate diving in for the season’s first swim in nearby lakes, streams, or pools. Many of us are happiest taking to our own backyards to dig in the dirt and get our gardens growing.

If you love fresh, organic produce, do yourself a favor and head over to Kelly Way Gardens this season (page 30). This farm to table program operated by the Woodstock Inn & Resort produces organic fruit, vegetables, and flowers that will provide “culinary inspiration to the inn’s chefs and food for its restaurants,” says writer Meg Brazill.

Summer is also the time for weddings. If there’s a ceremony in your future, turn to Rain or Shine Tent and Events (page 54) to make your special day unforgettable. Besides a selection of tents, the company also offers wood flooring, elegant lighting, tables and chairs, and beautiful tableware. Let them handle all the details, not only for weddings but also for large gatherings such as family reunions and anniversary and birthday celebrations.

Join us as we drop in on Elevation Clothing (page 38), where Carolyn and Charlie Kimbell can take care of all your activewear needs. We’re visiting another Woodstock favorite, The Prince & The Pauper restaurant (page 46), where owners Vincent Talento and Heidi Talbert will serve you any number of delectable choices from their menu. As you know, we’re always in favor of supporting local businesses.

As you head out to participate in your favorite summer activities, don’t forget to stay in touch with local news and events online at www.woodstock magazine.com. Enjoy!

Deborah Thompson Executive Editor dthompson@mountainviewpublishing.com

LIKE US www.mountainviewpublishing.com/facebook S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

13

C O N T R I B U TO R S

Mark is a freelance writer from Richmond, Vermont. He teaches skiing at Stowe and trains for marathons with his wife. He and his wife are also involved in another grueling and neverending endurance sport—parenting.

Mark Aiken

Lynn began her photographic career in Boston, studying at the New England School of Photography, assisting commercial photographers, and color printing in photo labs. Originally from West Virginia, she worked her way north, finally landing in the hills of Vermont where she has a studio in Woodstock.

Her current assignments include photographing people, product, and art.

Lynn Bohannon

Meg Brazill is a regular contributor to regional New England magazines and teaches at the Writer’s Center in White River Junction, Vermont. A recovering punk rocker and performance artist, she lives with her daughter in South Woodstock.

She is currently working on a book of short fiction when she’s not too busy living it.

Meg Brazill

Cassie Horner is a writer, editor, and publisher and the author of a historical novel, Lucy E.—Road to Victory. Her roots in Vermont go back almost 200 years and inspire her love of the natural world and history. She lives in Plymouth, Vermont, with her husband and two dogs—an English Shepherd and a mini Dachshund.

Cassie Horner

Lauren is the author of the children’s book What Makes Someone a Jew? (Jewish Lights Publishing), and her narrative nonfiction has appeared in Litro magazine. When she’s not writing or editing, Lauren enjoys birding, hiking Mt. Tom, people watching on the Woodstock Green, and supporting local eateries. She is a New Yorker by birth but a Vermonter at heart.

Lauren Seidman

1 4 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

VISIT US ONLINE @

WOODSTOCKMAGAZINE.COM ONLINE EXCLUSIVES Find additional articles online at www.woodstockmagazine.com. Go to the home page and click on the “In This Issue” button under the calendar.

eNEWSLETTER STAY INFORMED

SIGN UP TODAY!

Sponsored by Mascoma Savings Bank

What does our eNewsletter include?

• A summary of our most popular articles and comments from our readers

Berries Galore!

Discover local farms where you can pick your own berries.

• Local event listings from our calendar • Special offers from Woodstock Magazine and local businesses • Exclusive insights into upcoming features and articles, and much more . . .

Organize Your Kitchen

Sign up at www.woodstockmagazine.com

Deb Fleischman, owner of A Clear Space, tells you where to start.

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK TO SHARE YOUR COMMENTS. July

CLICK ON OUR ONLINE CALENDAR TO SEE LOCAL HAPPENINGS IN OUR COMMUNITY AND ADD YOUR OWN EVENTS.

SHOP LOCAL www.woodstockmagazine.com is proudly brought to you by these community sponsors. Visit our website for more information.

1 6 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY Check out these local businesses in our directory.

CLICK ON www.woodstockmagazine.com

ABOUTFACE SKIN THERAPY

LOCABLE

AMBROSE CUSTOM BUILDERS, INC

LONG RIVER GALLERY & GIFTS

ANNEMARIE SCHMIDT EUROPEAN FACE

MARTHA E. DIEBOLD REAL ESTATE

AND BODY STUDIO ARTISTREE/PURPLE CRAYON PRODUCTIONS BARTON INSURANCE AGENCY BENJAMIN F. EDWARDS & CO. BENTLEYS BLOOD’S CATERING & PARTY RENTALS BOYNTON CONSTRUCTION, INC. BRAESIDE LODGING BROWN’S AUTO & MARINE CABINETRY CONCEPTS

MASCOMA SAVINGS BANK MB PRO LANDSCAPE MORNINGSIDE ADVENTURE FLIGHT PARK MOUNTAIN VALLEY TREATMENT CENTER NATURE CALLS NEW LONDON INN & COACH HOUSE RESTAURANT NEXT STEP CONSULTING SERVICES NORTHCAPE DESIGN BUILD

CARPET KING & TILE

NORTHERN MOTORSPORT LTD

DATAMANN

PATEL DENTAL GROUP OF UPPER VALLEY

DAVID ANDERSON HILL, INC.

PERAZA DERMATOLOGY GROUP

db LANDSCAPING

QUALITY INN QUECHEE

DEAD RIVER COMPANY

RAMBLERS WAY

DONALD NEELY, DMD

RICHARD ELECTRIC

DORR MILL STORE

RIVER ROAD VETERINARY

DOWDS’ COUNTRY INN

RODD ROOFING

DOWDS’ INN EVENTS CENTER ENGEL & VOELKERS, WOODSTOCK ENNIS CONSTRUCTION EVERGREEN RECYCLING EXCEL PLUMBING & HEATING FOUR SEASONS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY GALLERY ON THE GREEN GILBERTE INTERIORS GUARALDI AGENCY HANOVER COUNTRY CLUB

ROGER A. PHILLIPS, D.M.D. SEAN’S LAWN N’ GARDEN SERVICES SIX LOOSE LADIES YARN & FIBER SHOP SUNAPEE GETAWAYS SURFACE SOLUTIONS THE FARMERS TABLE THE GRANITE GROUP, THE ULTIMATE BATH STORE THE HANOVER INN AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE

HANOVER EYECARE

THE WOODSTOCK INN & RESORT

INFUSE ME

VERMOD HOMES

JEFF WILMOT PAINTING &

WE’RE MAKIN’ WAVES

WALLPAPERING, INC. JOZACH JEWELERS JUNCTION FRAME SHOP LATHAM HOUSE TAVERN LAVALLEY BUILDING SUPPLY

WHITE RIVER FAMILY EYECARE WILLIAMSON GROUP SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY WOODSTOCK AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

For more information about how your business can get listed on our ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY or for other online advertising opportunities, contact Bob Frisch at (603) 643-1830 or email rcfrisch1@comcast.net.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

17

E V E RY DAY E S S E N T I A L S Tips for Healthy Living

A Healthier Burger

I

t wouldn’t be summertime without burgers and hot dogs on the grill, but remember to go easy on the condiments. Ketchup, mayonnaise, and other dressings can quickly add fat, calories, and sugar to your diet without adding much nutritional value. The American Heart Association recommends the following alternatives: • Choose ketchup that’s low in salt and sugar. Or make your own by combining low-sodium tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little brown sugar.

Online Extra Find homemade condiment recipes online at www.woodstockmagazine.com.

1 8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

• Instead of hot sauce, which can be high in salt, use cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

• Make your own salad dressing with vinegar, olive oil, and mustard.

When it comes to mustard, go nuts—it’s low in fat, has no added sugar, and punches up the flavor of burgers and hot dogs. Just steer clear of honey mustard, which can be packed with sugar. For a healthy mayonnaise alternative, try guacamole or hummus.

Cultivate Healing Energy Qigong is a holistic wellness practice integrating movement, posture, breathing, and awareness. According to Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian philosophy, it allows access to higher realms of awareness and awakens one’s true nature. It is practiced worldwide as a form of exercise, self-healing, and relaxation.

Interested in giving qigong a try?

The Norman Williams Public Library hosts Qigong on the Mezzanine from 8:30 to 9:30 every Saturday morning.

This free event is open to everyone, and no experience or equipment is necessary. For more information, visit normanwilliams.org.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

19

E V E RY DAY E S S E N T I A L S

“Slip, Slap, Slop” for

Sun Safety

N

ow that the weather is finally hot and sunny, many kids will want to spend as much time as possible outside. But much of a person’s risk for melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer—comes from their sun exposure as a child, so parents will want to stay on top of their kids’ sun protection.

“Healthy sun-protection habits come in three forms— sometimes referred to as slip, slap, slop,” says Dr. Vernon Sondak of the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.

“Slip on protective clothing, like long-sleeve shirts and long pants with an adequate UV (ultraviolet radiation) protection factor,” he says. Then slap on a hat to protect the face, head, ears, and neck. Finally, slop on sunscreen, and use enough to cover all exposed skin. And don’t forget to reapply every few hours and after swimming.

Hey, Guys: Make a Doctor’s Appointment!

P

reventive wellness visits are the cornerstone of good health, but one-third of American men don’t even have a primary care doctor. Even if you feel healthy, you need regular checkups—conditions like high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol don’t have symptoms but are major risk factors for heart disease. Use a yearly wellness visit to get all the basic blood tests, a physical exam, and an opportunity to bring up any concerns and discover your risk factors for future conditions.

2 0 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Mid-Life Exercise Could Jog Your Memory Are you over 50? It may be time for a new exercise regimen. New research finds that middle-aged people can improve their memory and thinking skills by adopting a regular exercise routine involving both aerobic and resistance exercise.

Study authors looked at the effects of aerobic exercise like running, walking, and swimming plus resistance training, such as weight lifting, as well as the impact of yoga and tai chi on brain health.

They determined that aerobic exercise and tai chi enhance overall brain function, while resistance training was linked to improved memory. They also found that the biggest brain boost comes from routines that are moderate to vigorous in intensity and are performed as often as possible for 45 minutes to an hour.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

21

A RO U N D & A B O U T

By Cassie Horner

2 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Photos by Philip Scott

Puppies & Pooches on Parade O

n Saturday, August 26, Woodstock celebrates dogs with Puppies & Pooches on Parade, a fundraiser organized by Friends of the Norman Williams Public Library in collaboration with the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce. The day also happens to be National Dog Day. Dogs of all sizes turn out in costumes for an event that includes prizes for Ms. Fashionista, Mr. Beau Geste, Most Precious Petite, Mightiest Mid-Size, and Gentle Giant. The parade is held on the Green at about 10am and followed by a ring of dogs set up for judging.

The entry fee for each dog is $10, and preregistration is strongly recommended because there is a limit.

“We started the event because my granddaughter, who lives here part time and in Brooklyn Heights part time, got a puppy,” says President of the Friends, Peggy Fraser.

“In Brooklyn Heights, there is a fun dog show, so a lot of the planning for the Woodstock event came from watching what they do. I learned a lot from YouTube.”

In addition to the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, partners in Puppies & Pooches on Parade include the Lucy Mackenzie Humane Society, Vermont Therapy Dogs of Vermont, and the Woodstock Dog Club, which are invited to set up booths at the event. “We are trying to be as inclusive as possible,” Peggy says.

The event features a raffle with wonderful gifts from the Vermont Flannel Company, Simon Past Event Sponsors Pearce, Farmhouse Pottery, the Woodstock Inn, Sponsors for this year’s event are still and others. coming in, but many local businesses have supported Puppies & Pooches For more information and a registration form on Parade during 2015 and 2016, for Puppies & Pooches on Parade, email fraserusa including: @att.net. There will also be forms at the library, • 37 Central the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, and other • Artist Finnie Trimpi places in Woodstock.

• Auntie M’s Kritter Krunchies • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Charleston House Charles Shackleton Farmhouse Pottery Kedron Valley Inn Kedron Valley Veterinary Clinic Lake Sunapee Bank On the River Inn Ottauquechee Physical Therapy Simon Pearce South Woodstock Country Store TD Bank Vermont Flannel Yankee Bookshop VINS Woodstock Country Walking Tours Woodstock Inn

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

23

A RO U N D & A B O U T Woodstock Village in the 1950s.

“I came to realize that much of what I remember so a˜ ectionately existed only in the memories of a dwindling number of natives . . .” —Bruce Co° n

Bruce Co˜ n’s

The Long Light of Those Days Photos courtesy of Woodstock History Center

Wherever Bruce Coffin has lived over the years since he left Woodstock as a young man, his memories of growing up in this idyllic Vermont village in the 1940s and ’50s have remained fresh.

At a recent program sponsored by the Woodstock History Center, he attracted a rapt audience for his talk based on his book, The Long Light of Those Days: Recollections of a Vermont Village at Mid-Century, reissued in paperback.

Using photographs as companions to memories, he connected people to Vail Field, the old Woodstock Inn and stable, the village stores, the high school,

and much more.

Bruce is a wonderful storyteller, a talent that comes through in the lively, evocative language of his book. He brings to life the wonder of a small world that was big in his childhood.

The circles of his stories ripple out from his childhood neighborhood of Pleasant Street and Benson Place to adventures at the Pogue (a small pond) on Mount Tom, a little market called Slack’s, trips “upstreet” to the business area, and explorations of the Ottauquechee River.

He wrote the book slowly, a chapter

2 4 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

each summer when he was on vacation from teaching. “The idea for a book never occurred to me until, after three years, I had finished three chapters,” he recalls. Eventually, he passed the collection of chapters on to Susan DiSesa, a former student of his who was working for Random House in New York at the time, and she suggested an arrangement of the material for a book.

When Bruce thinks of the Woodstock of his childhood, the word “timeless” comes to his mind. “It was like the interval between the church clocks striking the same hour, as I describe it in my second chapter,” he says. “It was ‘inspiring’ in the way it issued ceaseless appeals to the imagination because of its beauty and its variety of people and neighborhoods; it was ‘supportive’ in the way people understood and accepted each other; and it was ‘quiet’ as on any Sunday afternoon in the square or the park.

Top: Woodstock Pharmacy in the village, 1950s.

Above: In those days, the Woodstock Inn was close to the road and the Green.

Below: Students at Woodstock High School, 1957.

“The book’s title, The Long Light of Those Days, was taken from, or inspired by, a passage that caught my attention in Speak Memory, Nabokov’s great memoir of his early life as a member of the gentry in Imperial Russia,” Bruce says. “From one of his places of exile in the West after fleeing the Bolsheviks, he marvels at the way in which, after many years, the details of that lost world— including his recollections of childhood—continue to reach him across the distances of space and time.”

Bruce’s stories of growing up in a beautiful, intimate place resonate for all of us who turn again and again to memories of childhood. “For many years, on arriving in town from places where I have happened to be residing—New Jersey or England or Connecticut—I have always been surprised to discover it has changed; people have passed on, and houses have been altered or have disappeared altogether,” Bruce says.

“I came to realize that much of what I remember so affectionately existed only in the memories of a dwindling number of natives and that it needed somehow to be preserved against time and oblivion.”

The Long Light of Those Days is available from the gift shop at the Woodstock Inn, the Woodstock History Center, Teago General Store in South Pomfret, Gillingham’s, and the Yankee Bookshop.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

25

A RO U N D & A B O U T

2 6 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

PHOTOS BY CASSIE HORNER

Plymouth Folk & Blues Festival

The President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site is the lively and relaxing scene of the 13th Annual Plymouth Folk & Blues Festival, held this year on Saturday, September 2, and Sunday, September 3, from 2 to 5pm. Featured musicians come from Vermont and nationwide.

The 2017 lineup includes Hungrytown, Dupont Brothers, Bow Thayer, Eric French, Alastair Moock, Danielle Miraglia, and Jay Ottaway. The concerts are held on the lawn behind the beautiful barn complex. (The event will be held rain or

“Every year the festival has been growing in reputation and with people from all over the world wanting to play.”

—Jay Ottaway, Festival Organizer shine. The rain venue is the historic 1840 Union Christian Church in Plymouth Notch.) There is also a jam session on Saturday evening at Salt Ash Pub in Plymouth.

On Saturday, wagon rides around the historic village will be available. Children’s crafts and face painting will be offered both days. Food is available at the Wilder House.

The Plymouth Folk & Blues Festival is organized by Jay Ottaway and the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation. Ottaway, a singer and songwriter, has been coming to Plymouth since the

From left: Alastair Moock. Bow Thayer. Jay Ottaway.

1970s when his parents bought a house there. The festival started after Ottaway met William Jenney, director of the President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site, and invited him to a house concert. Jenney suggested a concert at the site.

That was in 2003, and there has been a concert on Labor Day weekend every year since, except in 2011 after Tropical Storm Irene devastated parts of Vermont, including Plymouth.

“Every year the festival has been

growing in reputation and with people from all over the world wanting to play,” says Jay. “We keep doing it as a way of giving back to the community. It’s a joy to help produce. The small stage features solos, trios, and the occasional band. We always hold a food drive for the Black River Good Neighbor Services food shelf.”

The concerts are free; a donation is suggested. For more details, go to www. plymouthfolk.com.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

27

COMMUNITY

The Taste of Woodstock Expect fun!

T

he quiet village of Woodstock will come to life on Saturday, August 12, as the Taste of Woodstock festival takes over the downtown area. Come out and enjoy food, drink, tastings, live music, street performers, kids’ activities, dancing, and shopping from 10am until 9pm.

More than 50 participants will fill the area with Vermont specialty foods, including cheeses from Vermont Farmstead, Billings Farm, and Plymouth Cheeses; Vermont Peanut

2 8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Above: If you like fresh peaches, visit the Woodstock Farmers' Market booth.

Below: People take a break from the festivities.

Games and other activities are available for the younger set.

Butter; and Vermont-made wine and spirits tastings. Local restaurants The Prince & The Pauper and Pizza Chef will be on hand to serve their specialties. The Kids’ Activity Tent will feature games, a drumming circle, street chalk, and crafts throughout the day sponsored by Purple Crayon Productions. Local nonprofits including the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the Thompson Senior Center, and Vermont Volunteers for Animals Humane Society will join the festivities.

Attendees can also enjoy a variety of live music. Entertainment starts at 10am and will feature Vermont bands including the ArtisTree Trio, Woody Thompson, Brian Warren, Jim Yeager and Friends, the Three Horsemen, and Sensible Shoes. Lighting up the night will be fire spinners Mary Urban and Friends.

The Taste of Woodstock is sponsored by F.H. Gillingham & Sons, ArtisTree, and Bentleys. For more information, call the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce at (802) 4573555 or visit www.woodstockvt.com.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

29

3 0 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Kelly Way

Gardens

Culinary inspiration for chefs and fresh, organic produce for diners

By Meg Brazill Photos courtesy of Kelly Way Gardens

T

he aroma of Kelly Way Gardens’ three acres of vegetables, herbs, flowers, berries, and fruit trees is tantalizing on a summer’s day. Its rich bounty is magnificent. Kelly Way Gardens is a farm to table program operated by the Woodstock Inn & Resort. Master Gardener Benjamin Pauly (Ben) aspires to produce a large variety of organic food and flowers there, including heirloom varieties, that will provide culinary inspiration to the inn’s chefs and food for its restaurants.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

31

Above: Potting shed and view of the main vegetable, herb, and cut flower garden beds.

Left: Napoli carrots.

Flowers and plantings, fresh and dried, offer a natural supply of décor for the inn. The gardens are open to all visitors, and tours and events such as tomato tastings are scheduled throughout the growing season from May through early October. Last year, the certified-organic garden produced over 200 varieties of vegetables, 50 varieties of herbs and edible flowers, 75 varieties of berries and orchard plantings, a mushroom glen, and 200 varieties of cut flowers. This year Ben plans to harvest 840 plant varieties, including 65 varieties of tomatoes. Each year since the garden’s inception in 2013, Ben has expanded it—from a little more than a half-acre in its first year to its current three acres, which includes a lot of terracing. “That’s about the size we need to supply the kitchen. We do everything by hand,” Ben says. “Increasing our productivity within that space is our goal, my goal especially.”

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

The garden began four years ago when Ben was looking to steer his career back toward his goals. He grew up in Minnesota on a small farm and received his master’s degree in architecture from the Uni-

3 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

“We do everything by hand,” Ben says. “Increasing our productivity within that space is our goal, my goal especially.”

versity of Minnesota in 2006. When his parents moved to Vermont in 2008, “I came to visit but fell in love with the area.” In 2009, with his newly minted architecture degree, he moved to Vermont to help his parents design and build their house. Toward the end of construction, he began working at the concierge desk at the Woodstock Inn & Resort.

Ben was involved with Billings Farm’s community garden and had a deep interest in gardening—an interest he shared with Paul Ramsey, the inn’s director of operations and a former chef. The two talked frequently about gardening.

After two years at the inn, Ben wanted to delve into architecture or some form of horticulture or landscape design.

“When I gave notice, Paul asked what it would take for me to stay on at the inn,” Ben recalls.

They discussed the possibilities, and the idea of the garden came about organically from there.

On his last day, Ben turned in a description of what the job would look like. Over the next couple of weeks, Ben’s proposal was reviewed, and he was interviewed for the position and hired.

Then it was time to get his hands dirty.

FROM SEED TO HARVEST

It was April 2013 and late in the season to start a huge garden. The “garden” was a big field full of ferns, grass, and weeds and a little potting shed.

That first year, Ben was the sole employee. “I met with the chefs, and they said grow a little Below left: Walla Walla onions, King Richard leeks, Inchelium Red softneck garlic, Atomic Red and Yellowstone carrots, green onions, Touchstone Gold beets, and Florence fennel.

Below: Allium christophii.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

33

“I get an idea of what to grow,” Ben says. “We grow everything custom and can give the chefs a palette to inspire them.”

bit of everything, and we’ll see what we need.” He spent a week culling through seed catalogs and trying to estimate quantities.

Although his degree is in architecture, Ben is no novice to gardening.

His mother cultivated extensive gardens on his family’s 10-acre farm during her months off from teaching. “I grew up with it and gained a lot of experience from that.”

Two years in the Peace Corps in Togo, West Africa, provided experience in organic farming and gardening practices. During college, he worked on residential landscape and

landscape design. Still, it’s been a huge learning curve creating Kelly Way Gardens.

“I had never done anything on this scale where you’re focusing on production,” Ben says. Resort Executive Chef Rhys Lewis, who has done organic gardens for Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia, works in concert with Ben. The garden pushes forward issues of seasonality, freshness, uniqueness, nutrition, inspiration, and creativity that Chef Rhys helps integrate into the kitchen. Now, with four years of holistic food production behind them, anticipating what

3 4 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Above: Fall root crops of Gilfeather turnips, Joan rutabaga, scorzonera, salsify, Lancer parsnips, Daikon radish, Deep Purple carrots, Napoli carrots, and Baby ginger.

Below: Anna Pauly harvests Persian Carpet zinnias.

Right: Anise hyssop attracts beneficial insects and pollinators near the high tunnel used for growing heirloom tomatoes in the background.

Below right: A stone table surrounded by culinary herbs, a location for Tea on the Rock. Visitors can enjoy sipping tisanes of lemongrass, chamomile, spearmint, lemon verbena, and others.

might work and in what quantities is still exciting but easier to do.

Throughout the winter, Ben meets with the four chefs: Inn Executive Chef Scott Watson, Chef de Cuisine Chris Lauinger, Executive Pastry Chef Philippe Niez, and Resort Executive Chef Rhys Lewis who works most closely with him. They discuss heirloom varieties, quantities, different types of produce, and different colors.

“I get an idea of what to grow,” Ben says. “We grow everything custom and can give the chefs a palette to inspire them.” He walks them through what will be grown for the season and provides production estimates for planning.

“With the garden, the chefs think more seasonally than they had to in the past.

For example, in Vermont, asparagus has a three-week growing season.”

Ben uses a master spreadsheet to input where the seeds and plants are from, how much space they require in

Online Extra Find more photos online at www.woodstockmagazine.com.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

35

“Our goal is to have weekly dinners up in the barn, based 100 percent on what’s coming out of the garden that week,” Ben says.

the garden, when to plant, when to harvest, and other useful data. He provides the kitchen with a graph so they can see when to expect each type of produce to come in.

EXPANDING THE VISION

Near the end of the garden’s first season, Gary S. Thulander began as president and general manager of the Woodstock Inn & Resort. When Gary sat down to talk about the second year of the garden, he immediately threw his support behind the fledgling program and provided Ben with

some assistance. This year Ben has two part-time and two full-time staff.

“Most places don’t actually have any substantial way of growing their own food,” Ben says. “For Gary Thulander, it’s important to have a legitimate-size farm where we get most of our seasonal produce and to bring that experience to the guests.”

Part of the experience is through dining, but the garden is also a destination that people can experience.

“We’ll talk about herbs for cocktails, pestos, smoothies. We offer tours and events,” Ben says. Gary has been

3 6 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

This year's annual heirloom tomato tasting event will feature all 65 varieties grown at Kelly Way.

A selection of tomatoes includes favorites such as Aunt Ruby’s German Green, Esterina, Black Cherry, Great White, Wapsipinicon Peach, Jaune Flamme, and Green Tiger.

a champion of expanding activities available to guests, such as the Falconry Center and fly-fishing. Kelly Way Gardens provides a new alternative, and it may be the only one of its kind.

“We want to connect the story of where the food comes from to what they are tasting in the restaurant,” Ben says. Every year, he does a tomato tasting with dozens of varieties. “It’s almost like a wine tasting. You sit down and get a plate. I talk a little history. We go through a few varieties. We’re tasting it and talking about it and having a little palate cleanser.”

This summer, two barns are slated for renovation; one will be used for the organic garden and flower programs, and the other will house a demo kitchen with seating for up to 45 people. Guests will be able to enjoy an interactive culinary program or have an intimate Vermont barn dinner and reception.

“Our goal is to have weekly dinners up in the barn, based 100 percent on what’s coming out of the garden that week,” Ben says. “It will be fun to feature something like honey berries when they come in for the chefs to be inspired by.” And even more fun for the people who come to partake of it.

Kelly Way Gardens is certified organic by the Vermont Organic Farmers Association.

Woodstock Inn & Resort 14 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 332-6853 www.woodstockinn.com S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

37

Elevation Clothing Offering thoughtfully chosen, stylish activewear

By Lauren Seidman Photos by Lynn Bohannon

3 8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

I

n 2009, a new clothing store opened in downtown Woodstock. It featured activewear from Ibex, a Vermont company, and was managed by minority owner Carolyn Kimbell. In 2012, Carolyn and her husband Charlie—outdoors enthusiasts with deep roots in Woodstock—became sole owners of the business. Their vision for the store was clear from the start: to transform Elevation Clothing from a one-brand shop to a one-stop shop for quality apparel—made by local and socially responsible companies—that gets people excited to go outside and out on the town.

Clockwise from far left: The inside of the Elevation Clothing store is attractive and welcoming. Proprietors Carolyn and Charlie Kimbell. The store's shingle hangs over the sidewalk at 15 Central Street, Woodstock. A curated selection of beautiful jewelry. Carolyn Kimbell at the counter with good friend and customer Jan Burtch. Stylish women’s performance tops from Ibex.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

39

Top: Large selections of men’s clothing from Patagonia, Ibex, Barbour, and Kuhl.

Above: Carolyn with key staff member Elizabeth ‘Bif’ Noble, together at Elevation Clothing since 2009.

Right: You'll find a full line of accessories, like these bags and wallets from Orla Kiely.

4 0 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Carolyn says, “That’s how people are in Woodstock.

You hike Mt. Tom, pull on boots and a nice sweater, and go out to dinner.”

High school sweethearts who met in chemistry class at Woodstock Union High School, the Kimbells reincarnated Elevation with the “athleisure” fashion trend in mind because, as Carolyn says, “That’s how people are in Woodstock. You hike Mt. Tom, pull on boots and a nice sweater, and go out to dinner.” Charlie adds, “It’s what we’ve done since day one because that’s how we live.”

CLOTHING WITH A CONSCIENCE

The Kimbells’ philosophy is to “carry a few brands and go deep.” And those brands are not randomly chosen. Versatile wool clothing from Ibex remains a bestseller at Elevation, along with outdoor gear from Patagonia, Barbour, and Kühl—all companies with environmental missions. The store offers Vermont-made Darn Tough Socks, which come with a lifetime guarantee, and headwear from Skida, a company that supports its Northern Vermont community and donates hats to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Shoppers can also find sunglasses and bags from TOMS, a business that helps a person in need with every product purchased. This summer, Elevation is stocked full of colorful Maui Gold dresses, clothes for travelers from the Canadian company Fig, jewelry and scarves that can change any outfit from casual to cosmopolitan, and the highly functional, super-stylish Blundstone boots, which can be worn in the garden, on a hike, and out to dinner.

Above: Men’s clothing from English brand Barbour in front of coffee table books from Patagonia.

Left: Products like this top from Ibex and scarf from RockFlowerPaper are merchandised tastefully.

Online Extra Discover the Hottest Accessories for Summer at www.woodstockmagazine.com.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

41

Above: For every pair of TOMS shoes sold, the manufacturer donates one pair to people in need.

Right: The store’s Ibex Outlet offers overstock items at discounts of 30 percent and more.

Inspired by Patagonia’s Worn Wear initiative and Ibex’s partnership with the Renewal Project—two programs that promote the recycling, refurbishing, repairing, and reusing of clothing— the Kimbells will soon bring that spirit of sustainability to their store. Elevation’s downstairs outlet, a popular and important part of the business, is stocked with excess and out-of-season inventory from Ibex that is sold at a discounted price. In the months ahead, gently used Patagonia and Ibex products will also be for sale in the outlet. In addition, Carolyn and Charlie hope to work with Patagonia to develop a local environmental project.

ENCOURAGING A LOVE OF THE OUTDOORS

Charlie explains that their focus “is not just on what we sell but how we encourage people to get outside,” and the Kimbells— with assistance and support from employee Biff Noble who has been with the store from the start—have already come up with a number of ways to get people to interact with the environment.

4 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

In 2015, Elevation Clothing teamed up with Woodstock’s Worthy Kitchen to create the Elevation Challenge, an invitation to hikers and bicyclists to complete several walking or biking routes in and around Woodstock. This year, the Kimbells will be bringing the Elevation Challenge to local schools, introducing kids—and their parents— to the great outdoor resources right in their neighborhoods. One of Elevation’s biggest draws is the walking map of Woodstock outside its front door.

Now that map, pocket-sized, is available for purchase.

It’s these initiatives along with the apparel that make Elevation Clothing so popular with locals and visitors.

Tourists shopping at the store want to know where they can go to hike and bike, and doing the Elevation Challenge or going for a run with map in hand allows them to feel like insiders.

When locals complete the Elevation Challenge and wonder, “What’s next?” they’re steered toward other hikes within a reasonable driving distance of Woodstock. Women from around the area who plan annual “girls’ day” gettogethers in Vermont meet at Elevation to check out the latest in temperature-resistant outerwear and bags that do double duty on the trail and at the farmers’ market. The downstairs outlet has a devoted following of bargain hunters looking for a great deal.

Carolyn and Charlie didn’t stay in Woodstock after high school, but they came back to raise their children here because of their love for this community. They are proud to support the local economy and global brands that lead the industry in social responsibility.

And when they’re not at work, they’re probably somewhere out in the woods.

Their store reflects these values, making Elevation Clothing a place that does much more than just sell clothes.

Elevation Clothing 15 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 332-6380 elevationclothingvt.com

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

43

Unique Shopping in Woodstock

Frameworks Studio of Woodstock

Crystal & Bark Designs & The Little Flower Shoppe

63 Pleasant Street Barn Woodstock, VT (802) 356-5235

28 Pleasant Street Woodstock, VT (802) 332-6411 www.CrystalandBarkDesigns.com

Open Tue–Sat

X South Woodstock Country Store & Deli

Mon–Fri 10am–5:30pm Sat 10am–2pm

Fox Gallery 5 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 457-3944 www.TheFoxGallery.com Open daily 11am–4pm or by appointment anytime.

Eyes on Elm Optical Boutique

Collective – The Art Of Craft

4800 South Road South Woodstock, VT (802) 457-3050

23 Elm Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-7227 www.EyesOnElm.com

47 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-1298 www.Collective-TheArtOfCraft.com

Mon–Fri 6:30am–6pm Sat 7am–5pm Sun 8am–4pm

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 10am–5pm Sun 11am–4pm

Mon–Sat 10am–5pm Sun 11am–4pm

Whippletree Yarn Shop

R.T. Home

7 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-1325 www.WhippletreeYarnShop.com

43 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-5700

The Barnard Inn Restaurant & Max’s Tavern

Please visit our website for current hours.

Mon–Sat 10am–5pm Sun 12–4pm

4 4 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

5518 Vermont Route 12 Barnard, VT (802) 234-9961 www.barnardinn.com Tue–Sat 5–9pm

Shop Local for the Best Selection

Danforth Pewter

Unicorn

9 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-7269 www.DanforthPewter.com

15 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2480 www.UnicornVT.com

Mon–Sat 9:30am–5pm Sun 10am–4:30pm

Mon–Fri 9:30am–5:30pm Sat 9:30am–6pm Sun 10:30am–5pm

NT Ferro Jewelers

Woodstock Hops N’ Barley

Woodstock Home & Hardware

11 Central Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-1901 www.FerroJewelers.com

446 Woodstock Road Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2472 www.WoodstockHopsNBarley.com

452 Woodstock Road Woodstock, VT (802) 457-3291 www.WoodstockHomeandHardware.com

Mon–Sat 10am–5pm Sun 11am–4pm

Open daily

Mon–Fri 7am–6pm Sat 7:30am–5:30pm Sun 8:30am–4pm

FH Gillingham & Sons

Caulfield Art Gallery

Worthy Kitchen

16 Elm Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2100 www.Gillinghams.com

11 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 457-1472 www.CaulfieldArtGallery.com

442 Woodstock Road Woodstock, VT (802) 457-7281 www.WorthyVermont.com

Mon–Sat 8:30am–6:30pm Sun 10am–5pm

Mon–Sun 10am–5pm

Mon–Thu 4–9pm Fri 4–10pm Sat 11:30am–10pm | Sun 11:30am–9pm

The Village Butcher 18 Elm Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2756 Open daily

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

45

Left: A hand-carved sign greets customers on Elm Street.

Middle: A house favorite—Braised Beef Short Ribs.

Bottom: The perfect spot for a romantic celebration.

The Prince & The Pauper A combination of ownership and stewardship serves a loyal following

By Lauren Seidman | Photos by Lynn Bohannon

E

ntering The Prince & The Pauper Restaurant in the heart of Woodstock Village is like turning back the clock and walking into history. The P & P—as it is fondly known to

locals—opened its doors in 1974. Vincent Talento became a coowner 32 years ago in 1985. Today, he and Heidi Talbert, who joined him as an owner in 2015, are celebrating this anniversary and this Woodstock institution that has kept up with the times without letting time change it.

4 6 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Bar Manager Clemens Steinrisser and Events Liaison Linda Lewis.

The Prince & The Pauper isn’t a “just one night” sort of place—not for the diners who return regularly and not for the many employees who have been with the restaurant for decades.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

47

Above: Diners choose from the nightly prix-fixe menu.

Left: A sweet ending—Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake.

Below: Guests from around the world enjoy the jelly beans!

Vincent and Heidi first met in 1978 waiting tables and tending bar in other Woodstock hotspots like Bentleys and the now-defunct Rumbleseat Rathskeller. Both had worked in restaurants for a long time, although Vincent did time as a proofreader and a cabbie in New York City before moving to Woodstock in 1974. Heidi, a Lebanon, New Hampshire, native, is an artist and former schoolteacher. After Vincent became a co-owner of the P & P with longtime chef Chris Balcer, he invited Heidi to work at the restaurant repeatedly, often luring her with the promise that he needed her help “for just one night.”

PRESERVING A BELOVED LOCAL LANDMARK

But The Prince & The Pauper isn’t a “just one night” sort of place—not for the diners who return regularly and not for the many employees who have been with the restaurant for decades—and Heidi always kept her foot in the door.

When Chris prepared to retire in 2015, Vincent and Heidi knew that the local landmark would likely be bought by an outsider who would change its character. While she had planned to go back to teaching full time when her children were a bit older, Heidi realized, “There was nothing I could do but buy it!”

Heidi views restaurant work as a creative outlet, and she, Vincent, and the staff collaborate to preserve the classic history of the restaurant while adjusting for modern tastes and keeping their menu offerings on the cutting edge of the culinary world.

4 8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Above, from left: Thirty years of friendship at the P & P. Chef Lyda’s Tuna Tartare. Customer orders are still carefully handwritten.

Below: Enjoying Clemens’s hospitality in “Jack’s seat.”

She describes it as “a place where people treat each other well, have known each other so long, know each other’s families.”

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

49

Above: Hostess and ambassador Julie Shoemaker.

Left: Sautéed Shrimp with Fennel Risotto and Smoked Tomato Vinaigrette.

Below: The main dining room, overlooking the gardens at the Woodstock History Center.

UPDATING THE MENU FOR 21ST CENTURY TASTES

The Carré d’Agneau Royale, the restaurant’s signature entrée of grilled lamb wrapped with spinach, mushrooms, and puff pastry, is now served in a glutenfree sauce. Mushroom bourguignon is a traditional dish with a vegetarian and a vegan twist, and a staple like seared sesame salmon can be cooked with tofu.

Olive oil is often substituted for butter; the linguine is made in-house; and a classic dessert like crème brûlée has been offered in flavors such as vanilla, espresso, and maple.

In the summer, fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and some meats come from local purveyors, and local cheese and cream are used year-round. The bar features Vermont spirits and craft beers, along with an extensive wine list. As always, the P & P offers a three-course prix-fixe menu that changes nightly, but these days diners may order à la carte as well, with special pricing and bistro menu options available Sunday through Thursday nights and during the slower “stick” and “mud” seasons of late fall and early spring.

Vincent and Heidi describe the kitchen as flexible, as many of the dishes are adaptable to special requests. These phenomenal cooks and servers meet every day before the restaurant opens to discuss which dishes might be tweaked for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners. And while there is no separate children’s menu at the P & P, kids working on their fine-dining skills and who are excited to learn how to twirl spaghetti are welcomed. The kitchen staff is happy to present smaller plates and make adjustments for younger tastes.

5 0 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Top: Fun at a family gathering.

Above: Pastry Chef Donna Miles’s Lemon Raspberry Chiffon Cake.

SERVING AN EVOLVING WOODSTOCK

From accommodating the requests of kids—some are the children and grandchildren of customers who have been dining at the P & P for more than 40 years—to delivering meals to the homes of aging regulars who can no longer make it to the restaurant, Vincent and Heidi are proud to serve the evolving Woodstock community.

Their “dinner and a movie” deal gets diners complimentary tickets to the evening movie playing at the Town Hall Theatre with each entrée ordered. The P & P is now the last stop on Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend oldhome tour, a place for visitors to warm up with some Wassail punch and finger foods. In conjunction with the Woodstock History Center, its nextdoor neighbor, the restaurant hosts

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

51

Local luminaries can often be found at the P & P!

outdoor weddings, along with indoor receptions and rehearsal dinners. New traditions include chef-led community cooking classes, a Mother’s Day brunch, and a New Year's Eve dinner that features live jazz.

Although change seems to be inevitable, “most restaurants don’t stay the same this long,” Vincent says, and customers frequently tell him they’re so glad to find it’s still here. When Dan McLellan, who started as a dishwasher over 20 years ago, recently left his role as executive chef, Vincent and Heidi were delighted to welcome former sous chef Lyda Lemire back to The P & P as their new executive chef.

It’s this combination of timelessness and continuity that persuaded Heidi to buy into the restaurant. She describes it as “a place where people treat each other well, have known each other so long, know each other’s families.

In becoming an owner, I don’t feel ownership—I feel stewardship. I’m responsible for something that has existed and is continuing to exist and will hopefully exist in the future.”

The Prince & The Pauper 24 Elm Street Woodstock, VT (802) 457-1818 www.princeandpauper.com

5 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Shop & Dine In & Around Quechee this Summer

Deirdre Donnelly Jewelry Art

Quechee Home

Andrew Pearce Bowls

Quechee Gorge Village 5573 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 432-1700 www.DeirdreDonnelly.com

5573 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 281-6482

59 Woodstock Road Hartland, VT Between Quechee and Woodstock (802) 735-1884

Open daily 10am–5pm

Open daily 10am–5pm

Open daily 10am–5pm

Game Set Mat

Jake’s Quechee Market & Café

Long River Gallery & Gifts

15 South Main Street, lower level Hanover, NH (603) 277-9763 www.gamesetmat.com

7161 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 291-9900 www.jakesquecheemarket.com

49 South Main Street White River Junction, VT (603) 443-2532 www.longrivergallery.com

Mon–Thu 10am–6pm Fri–Sat 10am–7pm Sun 11am–5pm

Open daily 7am–8pm

Tue–Sat 10am–6 pm Sun 11am–3pm Mon and evenings by chance or by appointment.

Artifactory

The Vermont Spot

Quality Inn

Quechee Gorge Village Route 4 Quechee, VT (802) 369-2153 www.artifactorynh.com

5573 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 281-6274

5817 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 295-7600 qualityinnquecheegorge.com

Open daily 9:30am–5:30pm

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

53

Extraordinary Occasions Your wedding your way with Rain or Shine Tent and Events

By Katherine P. Cox | Photos by Jack Rowell & Janet Miller

A 2016 wedding at the Woodstock Inn featured a fully oored large tent, tent liner, crystal chandeliers, tables, chairs, and table settings all provided by Rain or Shine.

5 4 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

T

he wedding industry has come a long way since 1987, when Perry Armstrong first began renting out tents to couples who wanted an outdoor wedding.

Today, the average cost of a wedding is almost $27,000, with the reception costing an average $13,000 according to The Wedding Report.

But when Perry first launched his fledgling business in Randolph, Rain or Shine Tents, with 14 of what he calls junky, old auctioneer’s tents and a hundred folding metal chairs, outdoor weddings in Vermont weren’t on his radar, and weddings cost considerably less than they do today. When he started, he rented his 30-by-60-foot tents for around $300. The popular sailcloth tents of similar size that the company rents today can cost up to $1,900.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

55

Above and center: Tablescape for a 2016 Billings Farm wedding; seen at night, a sailcloth tent with full wood floor.

WHITE TENTS FOR WEDDINGS

With his limited inventory of old, striped auctioneer’s tents and uncertain of who would want to rent them, Perry advertised in the yellow pages of the telephone directory for general events. But when he began getting calls for tent rentals for weddings, “I discovered there was a need for white tents.

Everyone wanted a white tent, and no one had them,” he recounts. “My tents weren’t for weddings, and I felt I was missing some of that business.”

So he bought a new tent and had 12 rentals lined up the following summer. He soon began attending the annual rental trade show and met people in the event business and

5 6 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

learned about the latest trends. He ordered tents with windows, tables, and white folding chairs. He went to area inns and bed and breakfasts, touting his wares, and before long the business was growing. He added glassware and china to his menu of offerings, then flooring. “We were off and running. No one could compete with us. We were perceived as an upscale rental company.”

RUSTIC BUT ELEGANT

That status continues today as Rain or Shine Tent and Events Company has grown, and the company continues to keep ahead of the trends and cement its reputation with innovative products that keep them ahead of the

Top: Tent crew installs a 50-foot-wide structure tent on a fully decked floor, which makes uneven ground level.

Above: The installled clear-topped tent (from above) with full wood floor and Vermont country chairs.

Below: Company officers are Perry Armstrong, Pete Martel, Lynn Armstrong, and Tina Welch.

Below left: Elegant table setting features crystal stemware provided by Rain or Shine Tent.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

57

Top: Fruitwood garden chairs await a ceremony.

Above: Dish-room staff maintain the company's high standards.

Center: Interior of a sailcloth tent with custom lighting fixtures and a full wood floor.

Below: 2016 staff outside the warehouse in Randolph.

Below right: Large crystal chandelier.

5 8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

competition. For example, Perry and his crew offer custom-built flooring from real wood and have a full metal shop where they can create lighting fixtures in-house.

Their latest product is what they call a Timber Tent that “looks like the inside of a barn, with exposed beams,” Perry says, “providing a post-and-beam ambience.” It appeals to those who want something different and unique. For sites that are sloped and uneven, they now offer an elevated platform engineered for safety that integrates with the Timber Tent. “Country-themed weddings are big in Vermont,” Perry says, and Rain or Shine Tents can provide that rustic feel with an elegant touch.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

During the high season from May to October, Rain or Shine does around 300 events, with September the busiest month for weddings, says Peter Martel, vice president of sales and marketing. The company provides everything people need to host a wedding, whether on their property or at an area inn.

In addition to a wide array of tents from the budget-friendly pole tents to the more upscale sailcloth variety and larger frame tents, they offer natural wood farm tables that they custom built themselves; chairs, which include a custom commissioned set; and tableware, flooring, bars, and lighting, from string lights to chandeliers to their custom fixtures.

S U M M E R 2017

Above: As evening falls, the glow of candles adds ambience to a beautiful scene.

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

59

“We can build an entire venue in the middle of a field, which includes electricity, pressurized water, and kitchen equipment so we can build an entirely separate kitchen for the catering staff,” Peter says. “We help the client determine the rentals they need,” he adds.

“We don’t just rent stuff. We’re detail oriented.”

Weddings are very emotional purchases, he says, and “we try to provide the best customer experience.” He likes to talk to the client personally to determine needs, wants, tastes, style, budget, and how many guests are expected. Each wedding is personal and everyone’s different, he says. “Some people want a nice party; others want to build a ballroom.

“Pretty much everything we have in our rental fleet is based on our clients’ wants and wishes,” Peter says. “So if there’s demand for particular items, or if that’s the way we foresee the industry going, we’ll move in that direction.”

Their three different varieties of farm tables are a case in point. “We found that people who wanted the sailcloth tents with the natural wood center poles and side poles were attracted to the wood furniture,” Peter says. People from out of state, a large part of their clientele, like the natural environment, “so we try to emulate that in the things we provide to go under a tent.”

Custom lighting installations are another feature that sets them apart, Peter says, based on their large inventory of festive lighting options and their ability to create custom fixtures in their shop.

“A lot of what we do goes back to the client and the guest experience, and we want to honor that,” Peter says. “At the end of the day, I want to be sure clients are happy. If you have happy clients, they’ll tell their friends.”

Rain or Shine Tent & Events Company 14 Hull Street Randolph, VT (802) 728-3630 www.rainorshinevt.com 6 0 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

BRIGHT IDEAS

The Learning Lab

Fulfilling lifelong learners in Woodstock

By Mark Aiken | Photos by Lynn Bohannon

Honoré Hager of Woodstock is not a big fan of Ernest Hemingway. “Many readers—women in particular—don’t like his style,” she says, characterizing him as a “macho muscle-author.” Honoré, however, is a lifelong learner, and she rarely goes a semester without taking a course at the Learning Lab in Woodstock. She recalls a survey course on Hemingway taught by Margaret Edwards. “Margaret told us on the first day: ‘I will make you love him!’”

The Learning Lab is a nonprofit continuing-education program in Woodstock. “They have really enriched this community,” says Honoré, who, despite her teacher’s best efforts, still doesn’t care for Hemingway. “But my husband, a retired journalist, worships him,” she laughs.

Right: Learning Lab participants explored Italian pottery design in a class held at ArtisTree.

Below: Instructor Veronica Delay (left) enjoys a light moment in the pottery studio with Ann Quasman and Jennifer Dembinski, while Charlet Davenport works in the background.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

61

BRIGHT IDEAS

Above: Pru Schuler, Bill Boardman, and past Learning Lab coordinator Nan Bourne during a class.

Left: Learning Lab coordinator Ron Miller, here with Betsy Edmunds and Barbara Henzel, teaches courses on American and Vermont history.

he says, launching into a 10-minute list of the responsibilities involved in organizing a not-for-profit continuing ed program: meeting with a board of directors, selecting course offerings, matching offerings and determining staff, making a schedule, publishing a course catalog, booking locations for classes, maintaining a website, balancing a budget, collecting registration fees, and updating enrollments. Easy, indeed!

AFFORDABLE CLASSES, COLLEGE-LEVEL INSTRUCTION

Last spring, there were six course offerings in the Learning Lab catalog—all taught by field experts, professionals, or former college professors. The cost for each course? Only $40. “We are just fortunate to have very high-caliber instructors and, frankly, college professors who live here and teach in this program. It’s been a real gift,” says Honoré.

One of these retired professors, Ron Miller, who has a PhD in American Studies and who taught at Champlain and Goddard Colleges, moved to Woodstock when he retired. Ron heard about

the program and registered for a class about the life of Mark Twain (again, taught by Margaret Edwards, who earned her MA and PhD from Stanford and who served for 30 years as a professor in UVM’s English department).

“It was very enjoyable and enlightening,” says Ron. And, he says, the class took a field trip at the end of the course to visit the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford, Connecticut.

Ron quickly became interested in teaching classes, and when Nan Bourne, then program coordinator, decided to retire, he took over the responsibility of running the program. “It’s pretty easy,”

6 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

CLASSES AT HOME

The Learning Lab is not the only educational option for residents of Woodstock and the surrounding areas; locals used to (and still do) travel to Dartmouth to participate in the ILEAD (Institute for Lifelong Education at Dartmouth), now known as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Dartmouth. One avid ILEAD student, Jean Dulmage, began to find the 30-minute drive on Route 4 to Hanover inconvenient and—particularly in the winter months—difficult. Why not offer classes at home in Woodstock? WESAW (Winter Educational Series at Wood-

stock, later known as the Woodstock Learning Collaborative, and finally just the Learning Lab) first opened for students in 1999.

All board members, instructors, and the coordinator serve on a volunteer basis—they receive no compensation (except for an occasional paid presenter from outside the area). Classes are held in a number of locations like the Norman Williams Public Library, St. James Church, local restaurants, and private homes. The organization is completely self-funded, but its catalog makes it clear that it will waive registration fees for anyone whose situation presents a hardship. “Woodstock has a very literate, vibrant, and alive population,” says Ron. “Even though we’re a small town, it’s not hard to fill our courses.”

Courses cover topics such as literature, history, current events, and music appreciation. There is even a partnership with chefs at local restaurants who invite participants to restaurant kitchens for cooking demonstrations.

“I heard about one group that was getting together later to practice the recipes,” says Ron. “You could almost call the Learning Lab a social club for intellectually curious people.”

ENRICHING A COMMUNITY

Honoré Hager recalls her very first experience in a Learning Lab class.

She came to Woodstock when her husband, a Woodstock native, retired. The class was about the poetry of Robert Frost, an appropriate course selection for someone newly transplanted to Vermont.

“I remember sitting in that class looking out the library window at this beautiful Vermont scenery,” she says.

“I remember thinking how fortunate I was to be living in this beautiful place and getting this masters-level instruction.” Most likely, the two are interrelated; Woodstock is a beautiful and desirable place to live and therefore attracts unique and qualified residents.

What sets the teachers apart, however, is their decision to volunteer their time and expertise.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

63

BRIGHT IDEAS

Jevgenija Saromova, executive chef at the Lincoln Inn & Restaurant, talks with participants in the Learning Lab’s popular culinary demonstration class.

“We’re mostly retired academics, and we have a passion for a topic,” explains Ron. He relates one experience where he took away as much as he gave in a class that he taught. Ron teaches courses in some aspect of history most every semester (for example, he’s taught courses on the American Revolution, important decisions of the Supreme Court, and the founding of Vermont, among others). Twice he has taught a course entitled Race in American History.

“It brought all of us to a deeper understanding of very troubling realities,” Ron says. “Even as I researched the material . . . I thought I was quite well-informed, but I learned a great deal.” The group’s meetings became times to share strong experiences and explore what was troubling about this part of our nation’s history. “It felt especially important to have this class,” says Ron, noting that in a small town in Vermont, there are relatively few opportunities to address questions about race and racism.

Above all, the Learning Lab enriches a community that is filled with residents interested in learning. “I know people who took classes when they 6 4 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

were new in town as a way to meet people,” says Ron. “It gives people the opportunity to build connections with one another.”

With a larger, better-funded, and highly respected program at Dartmouth, the Learning Lab doesn’t try to compete (although Ron says the Woodstock program has always admired and been loosely based on the Dartmouth program). Rather, the goal is to provide area residents with highquality educational opportunities that are convenient and locally flavored.

Honoré says she gets excited every time a new course catalog comes out.

This reflects Ron’s excitement for each coming semester; he is particularly excited about a course he hopes to offer this fall in which a number of local professionals with a variety of backgrounds—a journalist, a judge, an artist, and others—will share experiences from their careers.

The class will once again bring residents together to get to know each other better as they examine different perspectives and experiences. Again, it will be an enriching experience that will strengthen community bonds.

“We are local residents teaching local residents,” says Ron. And, in a small town, that’s a unique opportunity. For more information on the Learning Lab, visit thelearninglabwoodstock. com.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

65

HAPPENINGS: SUMMER 2017 JUNE | JULY | AUGUST

July 6

Antique Tractor Day Billings Farm & Museum WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG

Through June 30 Fertile Ground: A Spring Group Art Exhibit Norman Williams Public Library WWW.NORMANWILLIAMS.ORG

Through November 26 Exhibit: Hope and Hazard: A Comedy of Eros, Curated

by Eric Fischl Hall Art Foundation

June–August, Saturdays Qigong on the Mezzanine Norman Williams Public Library, 8:30–9:30am WWW.NORMANWILLIAMS.ORG

WWW.HALLARTFOUNDATION.ORG

Through September 3 Forest Exhibit VINS Nature Center WWW.VINSWEB.ORG

Through November 26 Exhibit: David Shrigley

Woodstock Village Green

Hall Art Foundation WWW.HALLARTFOUNDATION.ORG

Through November 26 Exhibit: Ready. Fire! Aim. Curated by DJ Hellerman

June–August, Thursdays Thursday Afternoon Knitting Group

Hall Art Foundation

Norman Williams Public Library, 2–4pm

WWW.HALLARTFOUNDATION.ORG

June–October, Wednesdays Market on the Green

WWW.NORMANWILLIAMS.ORG

6 6 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

June 8, 15, 22, 29 Play Bridge at Norman Williams!

Norman Williams Public Library, 4–6pm WWW.NORMANWILLIAMS.ORG

June 8, 22 Open Mic Night ArtisTree, 7–9pm WWW.ARTISTREEVT.ORG

June 9, 16, 23, 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25 Foodways Fridays Billings Farm & Museum WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG

June 11 Open House Justin Morrill State Historic Site, 12–4pm WWW.MORRILLHOMESTEAD.ORG

June 11 Quilting in a Vermont Hill Town: Love, Community, Faith, and Friendship President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, 2–3pm HISTORICSITES.VERMONT.GOV/DIRECTORY/ COOLIDGE

June 11 Discussion and Book Signing: Woodstock, Vermont by Frank Jay Barrett Woodstock History Center, 2–3pm WWW.WOODSTOCKHISTORYCENTER.ORG

June 11, 18, 25 Ice Cream Sundays Billings Farm & Museum WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

67

HAPPENINGS

Pentangle Council on the Arts 31 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 457-3981 WWW.PENTANGLEARTS.ORG

June 8 Across the Universe Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

July 6 American Graffiti Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

July 13 All That Jazz Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

July 24–28 Summer Stock Performing Arts Camp Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 9:30am–4pm

July 29 Summer Stock Performing Arts Camp Performance Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 1–2pm

July 29 Chris Pierce Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

June 17 Traditional Farmstead Skills – A Workshop with Andersen Thorp Justin Morrill State Historic Site, 10am–3pm WWW.MORRILLHOMESTEAD.ORG

June 19 Lecture: Opium Eaters Woodstock History Center, 7–8pm WWW.WOODSTOCKHISTORYCENTER.ORG

June 23 Greek Epic: The Latchis Family & the New England Theater Empire They Built by Gordon Hayward Program and book signing.

Billings Farm & Museum, 5:30pm WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG 6 8 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

June 15 MASH Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

August 3 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

August 10 Mamma Mia! Sing-Along Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30pm

July 4 Old Vermont 4th Billings Farm & Museum WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG

July 4 President Calvin Coolidge Birthday Celebration President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, 10am–5pm HISTORICSITES.VERMONT.GOV/DIRECTORY/ COOLIDGE

July 7 Old Time Band Concert & Ice Cream Social Woodstock History Center, 7–8pm WWW.WOODSTOCKHISTORYCENTER.ORG

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

69

HAPPENINGS

July 10–14 Farm Adventure Camp: Step Back in Time Billings Farm & Museum WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG

July 15 Lobster on the Green Woodstock Green, 5–8pm WWW.WOODSTOCKVT.COM/LOBSTER-ONTHE-GREEN

July 15 Cemetery Tour Woodstock History Center, 5:30–7:30pm WWW.WOODSTOCKHISTORYCENTER.ORG

July 29–September 17 31st Annual Quilt Exhibition Billings Farm & Museum WWW.BILLINGSFARM.ORG

August 5 Plymouth Old Home Day President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, 10am–4pm HISTORICSITES.VERMONT.GOV/DIRECTORY/ COOLIDGE

August 6 The Art of Growing Food: A Kitchen Garden Workshop Justin Morrill State Historic Site, 2–5pm WWW.MORRILLHOMESTEAD.ORG

August 19 IW Vermont Annual Farm Dinner Inn at Weathersfield, 5–9pm WWW.WEATHERSFIELDINN.COM

August 22 Vermont vs. Hollywood: 100 Years of Vermont in Film

Facebook Contests, Sweepstakes & Giveaways!

Like us on Facebook for your chance to win great prizes!

Woodstock History Center, 7–8pm WWW.WOODSTOCKHISTORYCENTER.ORG

www.facebook.com/ mountainviewpublishing

70 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M

Online Extra Find more events online at www.woodstockmagazine.com.

ADVERTISERS INDEX ACS Design Build .................................................... 64

G.R. Porter & Sons .................................................. 60

South Woodstock Country Store & Deli ................ 44

Alice Williams Interiors .......................................... 68

Game Set Mat ......................................................... 53

Stone Dental ........................................................... 65

Ambrose Custom Builders...................................... 27

GeoBarns.........................................Inside back cover

The Barnard Inn Restaurant & Max’s Tavern ........ 44

American Plate Glass .............................................. 29

Gilberte Interiors ...................................................... 2

The Carriage Shed .................................................. 51

Andrew Pearce Bowls ............................................ 53

Green Mountain Plumbing & Heating .................. 69

The Fort at No. 4 .................................................... 52

Anichini ................................................................... 11

Henderson’s Tree & Garden Services ..................... 52

The Inn at Weathersfield ....................................... 63

Artifactory .............................................................. 53

Hull Maynard Hersey Insurance............................. 13

The Lincoln Inn ......................................................... 5

ArtisTree.................................................................. 68

Jake’s Quechee Market & Café .............................. 53

The Public House of Quechee................................ 60

Bensonwood ........................................................... 36

Jancewicz & Son ..................................................... 15

The Quechee Club .................................................. 37

Bentleys................................................................... 70

Jeff Wilmot Painting .............................................. 67

The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm.................... 67

Boynton Construction ............................................ 69

Kedron Valley Inn ................................................... 64

The Vermont Spot ..........................................53 & 70

Braeside Lodging.................................................... 14

Kendal at Hanover ................................................. 65

The Village Butcher ................................................ 45

Carpet King & Tile .................................................. 17

Landshapes ............................................................. 51

The Williamson Group ............................................. 1

Caulfield Art Gallery .............................................. 45

LaValley Building Supply.......................................... 4

Unicorn ................................................................... 45

Charles Silva Jr. Builder/Designer........................... 63

Long River Gallery & Gifts...................................... 53

Upland Construction .............................................. 12

Collective, the Art of Craft .................................... 44

Mertens House ....................................................... 14

Upper Valley Haven................................................ 19

Crystal & Bark Design & The Little Flower Shop... 44

Montshire Museum ................................................ 63

Vermont Farmstead Cheese ..................................... 3

Danforth Pewter .................................................... 45

N.T. Ferro Estate & Custom Jewelers .............37 & 45

Village Pizza & Grill ................................................ 43

Deirdre Donnelly Jewelry Art ................................ 53

Pi Restaurant .......................................................... 25

Whippletree Yarn Shop ......................................... 44

Donald J. Neely, DMD ............................................ 21

Ottauquechee Health Center ................................ 43

WISE ........................................................................ 60

Elevation Clothing.................................................. 21

Quality Inn .............................................................. 53

William Raveis Real Estate ....................... Back cover

Engel & Voelkers ...................................................... 9

Quechee Home, Porch & Closet.....................19 & 53

Woodstock Beverage ............................................. 65

Eyes on Elm Optical Boutique ............................... 44

Rain or Shine Tent and Events ................................. 7

Woodstock Chamber of Commerce ...................... 17

F.H. Gillingham & Sons ........................................... 45

R.T. Home ................................................................ 44

Woodstock Country Club ....................................... 69

First Impressions Salon & Spa ................................ 68

Simple Energy ........................................................... 6

Woodstock Farmers’ Market ................................. 12

Fore U Golf ............................................................. 25

Woodstock Home & Hardware .............................. 45

Fox Gallery .............................................................. 44

Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group .......................Inside front cover

Frameworks Studio of Woodstock ........................ 44

Soulfully Good Café ............................................... 29

Worthy Kitchen ...................................................... 45

Woodstock Hops ‘N Barley .................................... 45

For more information about print and online advertising opportunities, contact Bob Frisch at (603) 643-1830 or email rcfrisch1@comcast.net.

GET CONNECTED Get listed on the woodstockmagazine.com BUSINESS DIRECTORY and you will also be included on our printed list in every issue of WOODSTOCK MAGAZINE. (See page 17.)

HERE’S HOW! Email Bob Frisch at rcfrisch1@comcast.net, or call Bob at (603) 643-1830.

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 a 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 Woodstock Magazine, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755. Or conveniently pay online using PayPal at www.woodstockmagazine.com.

S U M M E R 2017

|

WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E

71

LAST GLANCE

Like a welcome summer rain, humor may suddenly cleanse and cool the earth, the air, and you. —Langston Hughes

7 2 F I N D WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E AT W W W. WO O D S TO C K M AGA Z I N E . C O M