Enjoying the Lakes, Mountains and More!

Karen and Jay share the excitement of coming together with a group of highly motivated people to do good – focused on helping people be healthy and fit

Summer is a special time. When the weather is warm, we have free time to enjoy with family and friends – and perhaps best of all – we get to enjoy the best that nature has to offer. The lakes, the mountains – boating, swimming, hiking or just relaxing on the beach. It’s outdoor fun – and in New Hampshire, we are especially blessed with our pristine lakes, rugged mountain trails and a culture that embraces adventure, recreation and just plain outdoor fun. One of New Hampshire’s crown jewels is the Lakes Region, where crystal-clear waters invite swimmers, kayakers, and those who simply want to soak up the sun on a dock. Lake Winnipesaukee—the largest lake in the state—buzzes with energy every summer. I remember a family outing where we rented a pontoon and spent hours fishing, watching for loons, and waving at other boaters who seemed just as delighted to be there as we were. Down the road at Weirs Beach, ice cream stands and arcades line the shore, mixing small-town nostalgia with natural beauty. For those who prefer trails, the White Mountains offer countless ways to explore. Mount Washington stands as the tallest peak in the Northeast, and on a clear day, hikers are rewarded with views that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean into Maine and Vermont. Even for those of us not aiming for the summit, shorter hikes like the Franconia Ridge Loop or Artist’s Bluff let us wander through forests of birch and pine, encountering waterfalls and wildflowers along the way. The Appalachian Trail weaves through these hills, and every summer, you’ll bump into hikers on long journeys, sharing tales of black bear sightings or surprise thunderstorms. Beyond the mountains and lakes, our state’s rivers and forests brim with opportunities for outdoor fun. The Saco River is a summer staple for tubing—sun-dappled afternoons spent lazily floating with friends, legs dipped in the cool water, surrounded by the songs of warblers and kingfishers. Evenings might be capped with campfires at one of the state parks, swapping stories beneath a canopy of stars as fireflies dance in the darkness. For those who crave a bit more thrill, mountain bikers and rock climbers flock to places like Pawtuckaway State Park, where winding trails and granite boulders challenge even experienced adventurers. What truly sets New Hampshire apart, though, is the way its communities celebrate the outdoors. Towns host summer festivals on their greens, farmers’ markets burst with local goods, and neighbors share tips on the best swimming holes or berry-picking spots. This is so very true in my hometown of Newport with our local traditions and opportunities. There’s a sense of camaraderie—whether you’re cheering on paddlers or chatting with strangers while waiting in line at the corner store. Summer in New Hampshire isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a season built on friendships, shared laughter, and a shared appreciation for the wild, wonderful backyard we call home.

This week we are delighted to highlight a true leader who embraces New Hampshire’s outdoor life and paves the way for others to enjoy it as well, Bree Rossiter. At the helm of one of New Hampshire’s most vital conservation efforts is Bree Rossiter, a woman whose work exemplifies dedication, collaboration, and community empowerment. As Conservation Program Manager for the Lake Winnipesaukee Association, Bree leads initiatives that protect the water quality and ecological health of the lake through public education, scientific monitoring, and coordinated local action. Her leadership is instrumental in shaping a culture of stewardship across the entire Lakes Region. Bree’s work focuses on mobilizing volunteers and residents to participate in water sampling, shoreline cleanups, and stormwater mitigation. Through workshops and interactive events, she helps people understand how their everyday actions impact the health of the watershed. Whether it’s teaching kids about native plants or guiding homeowners in installing rain gardens, her approach is hands-on and accessible. Her ability to translate environmental science into practical steps has earned her trust throughout the region. She also plays a crucial role in shaping the lake’s long-term management strategy, partnering with local governments, nonprofits, and researchers. By fostering cross-town cooperation, Bree ensures that protection efforts don’t stop at any one shoreline. Her coordination of multi-municipality initiatives is a model for collaborative governance and resource management. It’s a quiet but powerful form of leadership that makes waves through consistency and shared ownership. Bree’s impact extends beyond policy and planning—she’s a community-builder who believes that protecting the lake begins with creating a culture of care. Her programs center on education, action, and empowerment, helping residents become ambassadors for clean water and healthy ecosystems. With her guidance, more people see themselves as part of the solution. Through her passion and persistence, Bree Rossiter is helping ensure that Lake Winnipesaukee remains a source of joy, beauty, and life for generations to come.

Quote of the Week

“In summer, the song sings itself.” — William Carlos Williams

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