Let’s Skate!

Since I’m not a skateboarder, I can only imagine the sheer feeling of freedom people get when hopping on their boards and navigating the streets or neighborhood ramps with nothing but the rush of adrenaline pumping through their bodies and the cool wind racing through their hair. 

I still recall that scene in The Secret […]

By |2025-09-02T09:02:44-04:00August 28th, 2025|Business|

Independent Cabi Stylist Jennifer Ryan

Christine recently caught up with Lakeville, CT, resident Jennifer Ryan to discuss with her all aspects of her independent stylist business as well as to learn all about cabi.

What is cabi? 

Cabi is a women’s fashion brand that offers high-quality women’s clothing that is on trend but not trendy; flattering, wearable, and washable; and gives […]

By |2025-08-26T09:58:20-04:00August 28th, 2025|Business|

A New Chapter at Lakeville Books and Stationery

The idea for Lakeville Books & Stationery was born out of the desire to once again have a bookstore nearby. Owner Darryl Peck and his family had recently moved back to Lakeville, CT, from Georgia (where they run another bookstore, Righton Books), and were shocked to see how few retail stores there were on the […]

By |2025-07-29T09:40:23-04:00July 30th, 2025|Business|

The Sultans of Soot: Robert Keller, Master Sweep

Above: Rob Keller (right) has been the Sultan of Soot for the last 30 years. Tucker Shearer (left) is a sultan in training. Photo by Christine Bates.

When should homeowners call you about cleaning their chimney?

It’s based on how much wood you burn in your stove or fireplace. It’s like changing your oil based on mileage. […]

By |2025-07-30T09:19:26-04:00July 30th, 2025|Business|

Camphill Village Coffee Shop serves up tasty treats & offers a welcoming, lively gathering space for the entire community to enjoy

All photos courtesy of Camphill Village Coffee Shop. Above: Ryan Huntington, Elijah Kent, and Laura Meza Assia at the shop.

From the moment you step into the Coffee Shop at Camphill Village, you’re sure to be greeted with the ambience of friendly chatter and a vibrant, inviting setting. I visited Camphill Village Copake in […]

By |2025-07-02T13:55:40-04:00July 7th, 2025|Business, Food, Main Street News|

The White Hart Provisions is all about delicious culinary offerings, dynamic aesthetics, and cozy community connection

All photos courtesy of The White Hart Provisions.

The go-to destination for my book club’s monthly meetings, The White Hart Provisions in Salisbury, CT, is a comfortable third space for truly any casual occasion, from more focused and work-oriented activities to casual chats with friends and time to unwind. 

The people & purpose behind Provisions 

[…]

By |2025-07-02T09:32:59-04:00July 7th, 2025|Business, Food, Main Street News|

Chatham Summerfest brings music, food, and fun to Main Street

Above photo from Summerfest 2023. Photo by Mendy Waits. 

On Saturday, July 12, the Chatham Area Business + Arts Alliance welcomes back the annual and beloved Chatham Summerfest, beginning one hour earlier to jam-pack even more fun into the day! The fun summer festival centered on and around Chatham’s charming Main Street begins at […]

By |2025-07-03T09:00:06-04:00July 7th, 2025|Business, Main Street News, Out and About|

SPAF: A distinct, versatile venue space in the heart of the Hudson Valley

All photos by Olivia Nadel.

Founded by Erica Price in 2012, SPAF is a family-owned venue space in Saugerties, NY, operated by the dynamic partnership of Erica and her son, Joshua Price. “Together, we bring two perspectives and a shared passion to every event we host,” reflects Joshua gratefully.

The venue is housed […]

By |2025-07-03T09:59:02-04:00July 3rd, 2025|Business, Main Street News, Out and About|

Hart Textiles brings the power of fiber arts to Great Barrington

Above photo by Kenzie Fields

“I wanted to create a space where people could learn new skills, find community, and explore their creativity in a positive environment surrounded by other creative people,” says Jamie Goldenberg, owner of Hart, a textile shop in Great Barrington, MA. 

Jamie’s background is in weaving, and she even […]

By |2025-07-01T09:05:53-04:00June 30th, 2025|Business, Main Street News, Out and About|

Shop, stay, gather at the Copake General Store

Above: Deli counter worker Elizabeth serves up a slice of blueberry pastry that was hard to resist. The blackboard lists daily specials and where to find them. 

In days (all right, decades or even centuries) past, the general store was the heart of a community, a place to meet and make friends, get your supplies and […]

By |2025-06-27T14:03:40-04:00June 27th, 2025|Business, Food|
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