An annual Canopy Curtain Call at Ripton Community House and a final call for Ripton Community Coffee House.

As the seasons change, the view from my favorite spot at Chipman Inn in what used to be an early 19th century kitchen, now our sitting room, offers a captivating glimpse of the Ripton Community House. With each passing month, this historic building, nearly 200 years old, transforms before my eyes. Since November's first snow, the view has remained unobstructed, allowing us to enjoy the glowing lights of the community house in the evenings, hinting at musicians playing, soup nights, and middle school plays.

For the past 29 years, the Ripton Community Coffee House has been a beacon for our community, hosting concerts every third Saturday of the month at the historic Ripton Community House. Their mission has been simple but profound: bring our community together to enjoy great music at an affordable price, nurture musicians with a welcoming place to play, and support local nonprofits through refreshment sales. The concerts have provided a stage for exceptional folk musicians while fostering a sense of unity among attendees.

Entirely run by volunteers, the Ripton Community Coffee House has operated on a pay-what-you-can basis, ensuring accessibility for everyone who wanted to experience live music. The joy of listening to talented musicians perform in this warm and inclusive setting has been unparalleled. But this May 18th will mark the end of an era with the final regularly scheduled concert. There's something symbolic about watching the Ripton Community House slowly fade from view as the leaves bud and the lush Vermont foliage closes like a curtain—a symbolic closing one of its many chapters in its 160-year-old book thus far.

Though I won't be able to see it from my Chesterfield sofa for a few months while the foliage gives it cover, the Ripton Community House will remain vibrant. Next month, a graduation ceremony for the 9th graders from our small middle school up the road will be held there, and we're thrilled to be hosting some of the grandparents of those students here at Chipman Inn. Later in the year, a wedding is scheduled just before the leaves fall again, and we eagerly anticipate the joyous celebration, with the bride getting ready in the Nordic Nook and the rest of the wedding party staying in the other five rooms.

The Ripton Community Coffee House may no longer hold monthly performances, but its legacy will live on in the community events and the memories created within those walls. And from my seat at Chipman Inn, I'll continue to cherish the changing views of this beloved community house—a symbol of Ripton's enduring spirit, resilience, and unity.

On May 18th, the Ripton Community Coffee House will present the talented duo Green Heron for their final show. However, keep an eye out for the occasional can't-miss performance at the community house, as they might bring in an artist now and then. Next year, they'll host one more big show to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their first-ever performance. Keep yourslef posted by following them on facebook @RiptonCommunityCoffeeHouse or their website https://www.rcch.org