Dec. 15, 2016 — A Section

Winter sports

Good boys!

Ice breakers

Section C features stories and photos of winter sports teams at all four of the local high schools.

Patrick Berry’s bird dogs are more than pets, they are award-winning retrievers. See Arts + Leisure.

The MUHS girls’ hockey team skated to a big win in the Tigers’ season opener. See Page 1B.

ADDISON COUNTY

Vol. 70 No. 50

INDEPENDENT Middlebury, Vermont

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Thursday, December 15, 2016  66 Pages

$1.00

Deer hunters set new mark

2016 all-season total best since new law took effect in 2005

By ANDY KIRKALDY 1-28 and Dec. 3-11; muzzleloader ADDISON COUNTY — Addison deer hunting season was Dec. 3-11.

County weigh stations handled The 1,064 deer hunting total for all more deer in 2016 than in any of 2016 broke the post-2005 record year since 2005, when of 1,021 set in 2010, and Vermont Fish & Wildlife dramatically betters the officials banned hunters The single next most productive from shooting spikehorn biggest factor year, 2009, when the bucks in November’s rifle in 2016’s county total stood at 840. season, the most popular record kill The county scan for of the state’s deer hunting total was the previous seven years seasons. stands at: In all — counting deer probably a • In 2015, 772 deer taken during the October bigger herd (444 rifle, 78 youth, 206 archery season (206), after a gentle bow, 44 muzzleloader).

Youth Hunting Weekend winter.

The rifle total was at that on Nov. 5 and 6 (94), point the best since 2005, rifle season (a record but the muzzleloader 573 since the 2005 rules change), total was depressed because wildlife and December’s combined archery officials imposed a ban on shooting and muzzleloader season (191) — does in Addison County during that hunters brought 1,064 deer to the season due to the harsh previous county’s nine reporting stations. winter.

The Vermont bow and arrow deer • In 2014, 724 deer (359 rifle, 107 hunting seasons in 2016 were Oct. youth, 152 bow, 106 muzzleloader).

• In 2013, 807 deer (421 rifle, 109 youth, 132 bow, 145 muzzleloader).

• In 2012, 875 deer (405 rifle, 124 youth, and 346 bow/muzzleloader).

• In 2011, 671 (329 rifle, 110 youth, 232 bow/muzzleloader).

• In 2010, 1,021 (428 rifle, 95 youth weekend, 498 bow/ muzzleloader). This year’s combined bow/muzzleloader total of 397 was the best since 2009 and 2010.

• In 2009, 840 (301 rifle, 91 youth, 448 bow/muzzleloader).

The single biggest factor in 2016’s record kill total was probably a bigger herd after a gentle winter.

According to wildlife officials’ estimates, the state’s deer population stood at 145,000 heading into the fall, more than in recent years.

The department estimate a year ago after harsh winters in 2013 and 2014 stood at 120,000, but this past winter allowed a higher survival rate (See Hunters, Page 17A)

‘Lumen’ celebration to light up Bristol Food and flame part of new solstice event

Fun in miniature

SALISBURY COMMUNITY SCHOOL kindergarteners Alice Gaiotti, left, Avalon Rheaume and Molly Hughes enjoy a visit to the Sheldon Museum in Middlebury Tuesday to see the annual model train exhibit. See a story about the Sheldon’s train exhibit on Page 15A.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Loan could create a beverage hub

By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury town officials on Tuesday agreed to float kombucha brewer Aqua ViTea a $125,000 loan to upgrade its Pond Lane headquarters with new equipment.

The hope is that the company

could someday share the equipment with other small beverage companies seeking to get their start in the beverage industry, and in the process build the town’s reputation as a beverage hub.

The money would come through a revolving loan fund containing

federal funds under the control of the town of Middlebury. The Middlebury selectboard unanimously agreed to lend Aqua ViTea all of the money in that fund, pending approval of the Middlebury Business Development Fund Advisory Board. Aqua ViTea (See Loan, Page 12A)

By GAEN MURPHREE BRISTOL — Bristol community leaders are planning a new night of live flame, celebration and light to drive the darkness away.

“Lumen,” as the new celebration is called, will take place downtown on next Friday, Dec. 23.

“I love ritual and I think that there’s a lack of it in our culture,” said Jess Messer, a local chef/food activist/entrepreneur who developed the concept with Ian Albinson. “So I was looking for something that was a celebration of positivity and light, around the solstice, something the chase away the darkness of winter.”

Messer had long been wanting to do a fire-related event through Tandem, the Main Street business that she and business partner Lauren Gammon share cooperatively as a prep kitchen, event space and occasional storefront. She sees the idea of behind Lumen going beyond your typical downtown booster event.

“I was looking for a something a little bit more, something with an aspect of ritual and gathering and shared experience. This year in particular people have been looking for points of connection because it seems like there’s been a lot of disconnection,” Messer said.

She brought the idea to Albinson, (See Bristol, Page 16A)

THE CIRQUE DE FUEGO of Jericho will kick off Bristol’s new Lumen celebration with performances on the Bristol green next Friday, Dec. 23.

Photo by Chawna Cota

Middlebury College achieves carbon neutrality Middlebury By the way The Bridport Grange will host a baking event at the Grange Hall in Bridport this Saturday afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to come and make Angel Flake Rolls and Christmas Sugar Cookies. It’s free, but please call (See By the way, Page 18A)

Index Obituaries................................. 6A Classifieds........................ 7B-10B Service Directory............... 8B-9B Entertainment.........Arts + Leisure Community Calendar......... 8A-9A Arts Calendar.........Arts + Leisure Sports................................. 1B-4B

OKs rail deal again — with opposition

Meets key climate change milestone

By GAEN MURPHREE MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury College has won an important battle in what Resident Scholar Bill McKibben recently asserted must become an all-out war on climate change.

Late last week the college announced it had reached carbon neutrality, meaning it has brought its net carbon footprint to zero.

“I am thrilled to announce this significant moment in Middlebury’s history of environmental leadership,” said President Laurie Patton, in the announcement.

In 2007, college trustees accepted a student-led challenge to make the college carbon neutral by 2016.

Since then Middlebury has reduced its carbon footprint dramatically through a combination of switching to renewable fuel sources and carrying out energy-efficiency upgrades campuswide. It took the remaining step to carbon neutrality (See Middlebury College, Page 13A)

MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE DIRECTOR of Sustainability Integration Jack Byrne stands with one of the college’s three solar fields, which contributed to the institution’s recent announcement that it was now carbon neutral.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — The Middlebury selectboard on Tuesday affirmed two key agreements with the Vermont Agency of Transportation governing the looming $40 million replacement of two downtown bridges, and also agreed to hire an independent engineer to review the project plans to make sure they are sound.

It was on Oct. 25 that the selectboard originally endorsed a modified grant contract and a finance/maintenance agreement with VTrans governing what is a four-year plan to replace the rail bridges on Main Street and Merchants Row. Work will include improving the rail bed (See Rail, Page 12A)

PAGE 2A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Fun with food

THE GINGERBREAD EXHIBITION and competition fills the Vermont Folklife Center in Middlebury with wonderful sights and heavenly smells; stop by and vote for your favorite through Dec. 22. This year’s theme is “A Christmas Carol: Revisiting the English Tradition of Ghost Stories During the Holidays.”

Works of edible art on display include, clockwise from top left, “Santa Saves the Elephants” by Maddie Crowne and Mary Douglas, “Let it Snow!” by Malorie Carlson of Rutland, “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Connor McNamara of Middlebury, “A Hansel and Gretel Christmas” by Isabella and Donald Gaffney and Celina Aiguier of Bristol, and “A Christmas Carol” by Erin Bettencourt of Sweet-E’s Bakery in Middlebury.

Independent photos/Trent Campbell

Middlebury selectboard eyeing increase in infrastructure spending

By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury municipal officials have spent the past several years diligently pinching pennies when it comes to the town’s property tax rate, but they will soon consider a sizable increase in investments in the town’s equipment, buildings and infrastructure.

The Middlebury Infrastructure Committee on Thursday agreed to recommend a fiscal year 2018 capital improvement budget of $948,418, representing an increase of $78,000 — or about a penny on the municipal tax rate — compared to this year.

It’s a draft spending plan that reflects: • A commitment of $755,668 to highway department needs, compared to the current $692,575.

That includes $62,000 in upgrades to Middlebury’s gravel roads (including $5,000 for the graveled portion of Creek Road), as well as $60,000 to improve sidewalks on South Pleasant Street, Pulp Mill Bridge Road and Exchange Street.

Town officials are planning to introduce a sidewalk on Exchange Street, with phased investments during the next three fiscal years.

Officials are proposing to earmark $19,900 in fiscal year 2018 for continued design and eventual construction of the sidewalk, which would extend along the entire length of Exchange Street — provided the town secures the necessary state grants.

• Around $41,000 for the Middlebury Fire Department, up from $36,000 this year. The increase includes $5,000 for improved communications equipment for firefighters.

• $60,400 for the Parks & Recreation Department, which is

down slightly from the $60,649 allocated to the department this year.

The budget, among other things, would provide for repaving of the municipal tennis and basketball courts.

• $15,000 for the local police department, down from the $25,000 that was earmarked for this year.

• $5,000 for the Ilsley Public Library, consisting of information and technology equipment.

• $14,700 for the new municipal building, for computer software and funding for a looming townwide reappraisal of property values.

The proposed capital improvement budget also includes some special projects, noted Selectwoman Susan Shashok, chair of the Infrastructure Committee. Among them is $5,000 for an urban forestry study, through which a volunteer group will do an inventory of local trees and draft a plan to protect local trees from the emerald ash borer.

Also included is $5,000 for storm water management services, and $20,000 toward the eventual removal of some of the abandoned buildings at the former wastewater treatment plant property off Seymour

Street. That funding, combined with allocations in future years, will also pay for new storage facilities for municipal property. Some of that property is currently being stored in the defunct, deteriorating wastewater treatment plant buildings.

This year’s capital budget draft also includes $10,000 for renewable energy projects to make town buildings more energy efficient.

The Infrastructure Committee made that decision following a recent discussion with the town’s Energy Committee, according to Shashok.

(See Middlebury, Page 14A)

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 3A

Home Health & Hospice: Filling a void for 48 years Agency provides extra care to those in need

By JOHN FLOWERS NEW HAVEN — It was 48 years ago that a group of concerned Addison County residents saw a void in local health care system. There was a lack of professional community care services for patients wanting to heal away from the hospital — where stays were often lengthy for post-surgery monitoring.

“It was about a more complete view of community health,” longtime health care professional Marcia Wheeler recalled of the impetus for diversifying patient care in the late 1960s. “It was viewed as, ‘Hey, wouldn’t it be great if, after somebody was in the hospital, they had some help at home.”

Thus was born Addison County Home Health & Hospice (ACHH&H), without a lot of fanfare, in 1968, on the second floor of a Middlebury auto parts store. The nascent service had one CEO and one nurse to provide home-based care to clients throughout the county.

Wheeler would join the agency in 1978, and currently serves as its director of hospice services. At the time, Wheeler became ACHH&H’s fifth nurse, under the direction of a CEO and a clinical director. Wheeler signed on in concert with a second physical therapist. The agency also had two home health aides on staff.

“Pretty much, everyone went everywhere,” Wheeler said of the staff’s travel requirements.

“A lot of miles.”

Both literally and figuratively.

Now based in its own building off Route 7 in New Haven, ACHH&H is one of the county’s largest employers, with 155 full- and parttime workers, providing a wide range of health care services to county residents from birth to death (see related sidebar). Agency officials are doing far more these days than taking vital signs and changing bandages. They are also teaching stroke victims how to swallow again, administering intravenous fluids, instructing new moms about breastfeeding, conducting flu clinics, helping hip-replacement patients learn how to walk again, providing pediatric cancer care, and teaching families how participate in a loved one’s recovery.

And if an ACHH&H nurse, physical therapist or home health aide doesn’t have the background to provide a particular service, they’ll track down someone who can. ACHH&H has working relationships with many other social service agencies in the county who can fill the patient’s diverse needs of the moment, whether it be mental health counseling, supplies from a food shelf, or assurances that their beloved pet will be available to provide companionship during a challenging recovery period at home.

CHANGES IN HEALTHCARE The agency’s growing mission is in part being driven by a massive shift in the way health care is being

delivered nationwide. Officials explained that the system now places a premium on shorter hospital and nursing home stays and giving patients the services they need to heal — or deal with the daily challenges of a chronic illnesses — more affordably at home.

That strategy is right in the ACHH&H’s wheelhouse, and it will be imperative for the agency to be at the top of its game if it is to continue to capture the Spartan reimbursement it receives for patients covered by the federal Medicare and Medicaid programs. A majority of ACHH&H’s clients receive Medicaid and/or Medicaid insurance, which covers only around 60 percent of the true costs of the services provided, according to agency officials.

“Next year and the year after that, all of us — hospitals and home care agencies — will be measured on our re-admission rates back to the hospital,” said Sherry Greifzu, executive director of ACHH&H. “We’ll get penalized with reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid (if re-admission rates are high). It’s no longer going to be that we’re going to be reimbursed just because the patients have insurance through Medicare and Medicaid. It’s going to be that they want to see the quality of what we’re giving … If we don’t have the quality and we’re not as good, or better than the national average, we will get penalized and have less money in our pocket to be able to take care of patients.”

And ACHH&H officials said they will not cut corners to conform to a balance sheet; the patient’s best interests have to come first.

“The decisions that we make are not driven by finances,” said ACHH&H Human Resources Director Kathleen Pratt. “They are decisions based on what the patient needs.”

Pratt recalled moving to the area five years ago, wondering “what this little building” was that she would occasionally drive past on Route 7.

She became increasingly familiar with Home Health & Hospice when her own mom tapped into the agency’s nursing and hospice services. And she became intimately familiar with ACHH&H after she started working there.

“I would like to make sure the community knows what they have in this building,” Pratt said with pride.

“I’m not sure everyone gets the impact that we have on the county.

As an HR director, I can say we have a $6.5 million payroll that we are putting back into this community every year. That’s huge.”

The ACHH&H takes on all patients, regardless of their incomes.

“We not only take care of the very poor in the community; we also take care of the very rich,” she said. “People are sick, they need our services, and it doesn’t matter how much money they have. If it means doing the right thing and we have to

ADDISON COUNTY HOME Health and Hospice Intake Coordinator Michele Newton, left, Development Director Maureen Conrad, Community Health Nurse Elizabeth Pelletier, Executive and Clinical Director Sherry Greifzu and Clinical Social Worker Jane Smith discuss a patient’s health during a meeting in the ACHH&H headquarters on Route 7 in New Haven Wednesday morning. Over nearly 50 years, the organization has grown to employ 115 people and provide dozens of services to people across the county.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Addison County Home Health & Hospice By The Numbers: • Agency was incorporated in 1968.

• Has 155 full- and part-time employees.

• Provides a variety of services, including skilled nursing, physical therapy, maternal-child health, hospice and palliative care, end-of-life care, flu clinics, foot clinics, tele-health medicine, family support, IV therapy, homemaker care, pediatric cancer care, breast feeding instruction, and infusions.

• ACHH&H staff conducted 78,250 patient visits during fiscal year 2016, which spanned July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016. Also during that period, the agency had an average daily patient census of 559.

• The non-profit agency’s many employees logged a combined total of 726,509 miles traveling throughout Addison County tending to their home-based patients.

• Of the $10.1 million the ACHH&H earned in revenues during fiscal year 2015, a combined total of around 90 percent came through federal Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements for services. Medicaid reimbursements cover only around 60 percent of the true costs of the services provided, according to ACHH&H officials. The remaining 10 percent in revenues were derived from third party insurance, private pay and clinics, United Way funding and contributions. lose money, we do it.

“We never say ‘no,’” Greifzu added.

Anne Nichols is clinical nursing team leader for ACHH&H. She noted the agency’s workers are intent on assessing a patient’s entire scope of needs — in consultation with the client’s physician — when first entering a home.

“The nurse goes out and does her initial first assessment, and then might realize that there’s more than just nursing that’s needed,” Nichols said. “Then we talk to the patients to make sure they’re willing to allow all these different services to come in, and we confer with the physician.”

For example, the ACHH&H worker might notice the patient is having a hard time getting inside his or her home. So the worker might

relay the need for a handicap-access ramp, or set up a bed on the main floor of the client’s home to help them avoid climbing stairs.

Sometimes, patients need some gentle persuasion before accepting advice to make their lives easier.

“People minimize their story; they’re terribly afraid they might get put into a nursing home and taken out of their home, so they want to tell the doctor ‘Everything is wonderful,’” Wheeler said.

But in many cases the client’s health picture is far from wonderful, and it’s up to the ACHH&H workers to take notes and create a plan of action.

“We are stretching the capacity to keep these people at home as long as possible, with as many resources as we can provide,” Greifzu said.

“Some people need us for two months; others need us for two years.”

With finances so tight, Home Health & Hospice officials are constantly having to urge state and federal lawmakers to make sure funding for home-based care doesn’t dry up.

“We have to be in every legislator’s ear to translate what needs to be done at the bedside, so they understand what they are lobbying for,” Greifzu said. “We have a huge responsibility not to waste money and time, and have the best available people to provide the care. We can’t just ask for money and then waste it.”

SAVING MONEY In most cases, home-based care is saving the health care industry money — and a lot of it, according to ACHH&H officials.

Jason LeBeau is director of therapy services for ACHH&H. He noted the stark contrast in costs between a private rehab facility and what Home Health & Hospice can deliver.

“Therapy services that would cost roughly $3,000 per day at a rehab facility, if they can be done at home, it saves Medicare a boatload of money,” LeBeau said. “We’re talking about $30,000 over 10 days, versus us seeing the patient for 60 days for around $3,000. And we have all the services that a rehab (facility) would have.”

Greifzu said this is a particularly challenging time of year for hospice patients, their families, and the caregivers.

“During the holidays, people hold out until the very last minute,” Greifzu said. “They want one more Christmas, one more new year’s.

They want to see one more baby born. (The hospice caregivers) really try to provide that for the patients.”

In some cases, hospice workers make multiple trips each day to make sure a patient is as comfortable

and alert as possible to enjoy at least one more family moment.

“They really do some heroic things,” Greifzu said of hospice staff.

In addition to providing key health care services, Nichols said ACHH&H provides an important social link for patients who must spend a lot of time indoors.

“It takes away some of that isolation,” Nichols said, specifically citing examples of parents staying home with their sick children.

Home Health & Hospice caregivers are trained not to pass judgment on the housekeeping abilities of the folks they serve. One nurse recounted speaking with a homebound client whose pig strolled into the kitchen while they were talking.

Another caregiver was advised not to look into a client’s window, knowing the patient had a firearm and wasn’t enamored of trespassers.

Nichols has cared for a lot of patients during her years with ACHH&H. Her interactions with clients have made for some wonderful memories. The most challenging patients have invariably been the ones who have made the most profound impact on Nichols. And given the self-sufficient, independent nature of most Vermonters, there’s been no shortage of clients who aren’t too keen on being told what to do.

“My favorite patients were always the ones who did not want us, and refused to do the things that should have done,” Nichols said with a chuckle. “Those were always the ones that you really made the most positive relationship with. They would go from, ‘I am not leaving my house’ … to really accepting (advice) and partnering for quality care to the end of their lives.”

More information about ACHH&H can be found at achhh.org.

Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.

Man killed in a Middlebury house fire Wednesday

MIDDLEBURY — A 96-year-old man lost his life in a fire at his home on Murdock Court in Middlebury on Wednesday evening.

The Middlebury Fire Department received a call reporting a fire at 7 Murdock Court — off Weybridge Street — at a little past 7:30 p.m.

The call came from a family member who came home and found the house filled with smoke. He informed authorities that the man may be inside.

At least 10 fire trucks from Middlebury, New Haven and Weybridge responded to the scene.

By the time they arrived the blaze was visible to neighbors, and firefighters immediately started battling the fire.

Welch pitches dairy farm aid to Trump WASHINGTON — Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vermont, last week sent a letter to President-Elect Donald Trump outlining practical steps he can take to steady wildly fluctuating milk prices and restore stability to the dairy industry.

“Dairy farmers are imperiled by wildly fluctuating milk prices that threaten the very existence of many farms ... Many dairy farms are selling milk below the cost of production and are on the brink of selling their herds,” Welch writes.

The letter suggests the following steps for stabilization: • A supply management tool to help prevent volatility in milk prices.

• Reform the Margin Protection Program • Ensure a reliable labor supply.

It took a few minutes for the fire teams to get the fire under control, but once they did they were able to get inside and find the deceased remains of Bob Kellogg.

Neighbors, who said Kellogg was well loved in the community, rallied to help the family member who had not only just lost a loved one but also found himself homeless. They

offered food, a place to stay and what comforts they could.

Look for an expanded report online at addisonindependent.com and in Monday’s edition.

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PAGE 4A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

A DDIS ON INDE P E NDEN T

Letters

Editorials

to the Editor

Shirking responsibility? Did the town pass the torch too soon?

Did the Middlebury selectboard on Tuesday put their trust in VTRANS ahead of its own responsibility to assure the best interests of the town’s residents are met? That’s a legitimate quandary in light of their vote to sign over authority for VTrans to control and manage the $40 million project to replace the Main Street and Merchants Row rail bridges. The issue addressed at Tuesday’s meeting was whether the town should turn the responsibility of the project over to the state now or, presumably, wait a few more weeks until the selectboard could get assurances that several significant questions were answered to the town’s satisfaction and then make a decision.

The board voted 6-1 on Tuesday in favor of handing it off to the state with only Donna Donahue voting against the motion. Her reasoning was simple: “I think it’s a mistake to make decisions now. I want as much information as possible before I sign an agreement.”

Those selectboard members approving the transfer uniformly said they had discussed the issue long enough and were comfortable that the state would handle the rail/bridge project with the town’s best interest in mind.

Proponents also expressed concerns that further delays might jeopardize the full benefits of the project and that it was in the town’s best interest to greenlight the AOT to get the project underway.

Still, Middlebury residents might wonder whether the selectboard passed the torch too soon.

But before passing judgment, let’s back up a minute to some unfinished business: Back on Oct. 31, attorney James Dumont filed an 18-page letter addressed to Vermont Secretary of Transportation Chris Cole in which Dumont, on behalf of Middlebury resident George Dorsey and others, asked for clarification on several points and correcting of the record on others, among which were: • Correcting the record to show that a 23-foot or 21-foot clearance would not be mandated by state and/or federal law, if the project were considered bridge reconstruction or alteration, rather than new construction, and therefore the existing height (18 to 19 feet) of the bridges would be sufficient. Logic would also suggest that if reconstruction of the two bridges is the town’s primary concern, then current height limits meet the required federal and state standards, and the larger project is to meet other statewide needs (improving the Western Rail corridor) at the expense of the town’s distress; • that several federal and state permits related to environmental concerns, including storm run-off into the Otter Creek, have not been filed for or received; • that hazardous waste material has been found within the base material around the tracks to be replaced, and therefore will require hazardous waste treatment and removal procedures (provisions that were not previously included in the state’s plans); • that the safety and design of the tunnel’s drainage system should be questioned, while also ensuring that federal funding for the project is guaranteed to completion; • that the current bridges are judged safe enough to endure the length of the project or up to six years, and if not, that they be replaced first.

In response, Sec. Cole confirmed he would address the questions by mid-December. More recently, Cole has postponed that response until midJanuary, if he retains his post in the new administration.

Not all of the points in Dumont’s letter were showstoppers, but a couple could be. And the most critical of the points suggested that, in a worst-case scenario of another train derailment of hazardous materials, dangerous gases or liquids could be spilled under the tunnel and the fumes or gases could become explosive. Those are reasonable points to make and for the town to research. At the very least, it would have been prudent for the selectboard to delay a decision until after Sec. Cole had answered the complaint, and perhaps agreed to resolve any legitimate risks posed by the project. ********** All is not lost, however. In the papers signed Tuesday transferring management of the project over to VTrans, the state agreed to two important town requests: an extension of the town’s right to review the project before signing off on it from three weeks to “a reasonable time period,” and agreeing to hire an independent engineer to review the project to make sure the design and construction is sound and following best practices. (See story, Page 1A.) To that end, the town selectboard must be diligent in their efforts to hire an appropriate engineer or engineers skilled in railway tunnels, drainage and the transport of hazardous materials to make a thorough review of the project. The town should also use the “reasonable time period” to span the engineer’s report and an AOT response to the 18-page complaint — as well as time to propose best solutions to any shortcomings discovered. ********* We are fortunate that state government in Vermont is, by and large, responsive to community requests and the AOT team leaders on this project have worked with the town to deliver a viable project. That does not, however, relieve the selectboard of its principle role — to represent and advocate for its residents’ best interests until all doubts and concerns are erased. It’s difficult to see how all concerns are alleviated with a project that has yet to be fully designed or reviewed, and with an outstanding complaint waiting for the secretary’s response.

To trust the state to do the town’s bidding is, at best, playing an unnecessarily weak hand. At worst, it forces opponents to file legal action to stop what they consider a project fraught with dangers that could be avoided.

A middle ground might be to pursue talks to maintain the town’s legal status over any objectionable developments that arise, while conceding the AOT has the town’s permission to proceed. None are great options, but we’re here because the torch was passed.

Angelo Lynn

ADDISON COUNTY

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Museum plan unfairly rejected I was sorely disappointed when I read in your paper how the Bristol selectboard rejected the offer of the gentleman who wanted to buy the old fire station and make it into an antique woodworking machinery museum. Whatever happened to “a bird in the hand...?”

As I understand it, it was clearly stipulated in the sales agreement that the structure would be restored to its original appearance. It also seems to me that the proposed use would be very much in keeping with the woodworking heritage Bristol is famous for. As a woodworker myself, I would enjoy having such a museum in town and would proudly bring friends and visitors to see it.

I hope the selectboard reconsiders their decision and chooses to encourage enterprising citizens who have the good of the community at heart.

Gerry Tetrault Bristol

College students help city kids

Holiday trio

MIDDLEBURY UNION HIGH School students Meighan Clark, left, Kess Moulton and Lauren Turner perform in Middlebury’s Congregational Church during a noontime concert Tuesday. The trio sang as part of a concert of songs by the school’s various choirs.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Christmas music, from Dylan to Death Row No holiday has inspired more music — and groans about sound of actual jingle bells. its omnipresence — than Christmas.

Sinatra also stole from Nat King Cole with “The It used to be the holiday music started in stores the day Christmas Song” and all those chestnuts roasting on an after Thanksgiving. This year I heard holiday harmonies open fire. on the day after Halloween. Talk about feeling haunted…

A CD version of the album even includes a page from But in spite of the insipid nature of most Der Bingle’s book with a so-so version of Christmas music, every year we believers “White Christmas.” (Which as my dad always and nonbelievers at some point fall prey to its noted, “is a wonderful song but Irving Berlin charms. Even the Scrooges among us put on a really should have written one more verse”). few tunes come Christmas Eve. For my money, Frankie really hit the high In my household the holiday music runs to note with “Have Yourself a Merry Little the traditional — at least when traditional is Christmas.” defined as “what we listened to when I was a I recall that even at age 11 as I placed the kid.” angel atop my family’s 12-foot-tall Christmas You won’t catch me playing James Taylor’s tree, I looked down and hoped the lyrics or Katy Perry’s Christmas albums. would always come true: Instead I stick with the timeless classics from Frank Sinatra and the Kingston Trio.

Here we are as in olden days “The Sinatra Christmas Album,” with Happy golden days of yore heavenly arrangements by Gordon Jenkins, Faithful friends who are dear to us was recorded in 1957. You can buy a vinyl Gather near to us once more version of it on eBay for $72.25. Or listen on Spotify for $11 a month.

As for the Kingston Trio’s Christmas album, Or catch it on the free version of Spotify, by Gregory Dennis it’s become fashionable even among folkies if you want to have your holiday reveries to slam the Trio, lost on the MTA or hangin’ interrupted by ads for burglar alarms. from a white oak tree with Tom Dooley.

If you’re willing to endure the execrable sound from Yes, they were corny in their striped short-sleeve shirts. your computer’s speakers, you can even listen to it free on But hey, the Beach Boys wore them, too.

YouTube.

The Trio was also shameless about stealing other people’s Frankie won’t begrudge you the missing royalty songs and calling them their own. payments from YouTube. He’s been dead since 1998.

At least they stole from the very best — never more Sinatra recorded other Christmas albums before he faced so than on their classic 1960 album, “Last Month of the his final curtain. But there’s no better one than the first LP. Year,” recorded in the Ambassador Hotel in L.A. (the same Side 1 — I still think of it in terms of the vinyl — calls hotel where Bobby Kennedy was assassinated, for all you in the holiday with “Jingle Bells,” preceded by the cheery (See Dennis, Page 5A)

Between The Lines

Congress, courts must balance president In 1787 and 1788, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison wrote a series of essays known as The Federalist Papers, urging ratification of the new Constitution of the United States.

In the weeks since the election, I have been rereading The Federalist, particularly two of Madison’s most important contributions, Numbers 10 and 51. I am, as I told some friends and colleagues on Nov. 9, willing to suspend judgment on Donald Trump until the spring, to see how he acts once he has actually taken office. However, I have become increasingly concerned over the past month that the American constitutional system is about to be stressed in ways that will put Madison’s intricate design very much to the test.

In Federalist 10, Madison wrote that “men of factious tempers, of local prejudices, or of sinister designs, may, by intrigue, by corruption, or by other By Eric L. Davis means, first obtain the suffrages, and then betray the interests of the people.”

Madison argued that the expansion of the republic to a continental scale, as was proposed in the new constitution, would be a strong defense against the election of “factious men.” In a large republic there would be “a greater option” of candidates, “and consequently a greater probability of a fit choice.”

Madison was obviously writing before the expansion of print, electronic and social media. The current media environment is arguably highly susceptible to the blandishments of an unsuitable candidate who can obtain election to public office by nefarious means and then betray those whose votes put him or her in office. Indeed, the

Politically Thinking

relative civility of the recent election campaigns in Vermont may demonstrate that, today, smaller political communities are less likely to fall under the sway of candidates who practice, as Madison wrote in Federalist 10, “the vicious arts by which elections are too often carried.”

If the large republic cannot protect society against the election of inappropriate officeholders, the remaining remedy is the one about which Madison wrote in Federalist 51: a structure of government consisting of separated institutions sharing powers. As Madison wrote in that paper, after asking “what is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature,” the government must be obliged to control itself by having ambition counteracting ambition.

The “interest of the man” must be “connected with the constitutional rights of the place.” All of the branches of government — House, Senate, president and the courts — must vigorously assert the powers of their office and engage in a checking and balancing struggle. Out of this struggle, and the diversity of interests represented in the large republic, the best longterm results for society as a whole would emerge.

When Madison was writing, the fear was of an overly powerful legislative branch. More than two centuries later, the fear is of an overly powerful executive branch, especially if that branch has extensive powers over how it communicates with other officeholders, and with the public.

Donald Trump approaches power in a personal way, rather than in institutional terms. He sees himself as the ultimate (See Davis, Page 5A)

It was a pleasure to read Karl Lindholm’s article on Middlebury College student Matt St. Amour.

The article however did not mention another way that Matt gives back to the community. For the past two years Matt and teammate Liam Naughton have been coaching a youth basketball team in Vergennes.

As a ProCity AAU Basketball board member and team manager I have been impressed with Matt and Liam’s commitment to our area youth.

These student athletes both carry full academic loads and yet each spring since their sophomore year they have volunteered to coach, after their own busy season. They devote two afternoons each week to practices and five weekends, both Saturday and Sunday, between mid-March and mid-May to attend tournaments around the state with the team. This is an amazing commitment for a college student to make.

Matt and Liam have not only shared basketball skills but also life skills, encouraging academic success along with success on the court. They show up at each practice ready to execute a plan and see improvement in their players. The bond formed between these young men and their players carries over to the rest of the year. The AAU team supports Matt and Liam at their Middlebury games joining their parents in the northwest corner of Pepin gym.

Matt and Liam try to attend the boys’ school games, when their schedules allow. I am sure Matt and Liam have learned from their players and their influence on the boys shows up on and off the court.

ProCity Basketball would like to thank all of our volunteer coaches, parents and players. It truly is a community effort. As for Matt and Liam we will miss them when they graduate in May and wish them well on their next endeavors.

Lisa Sausville ProCity Basketball Board Member/Team Manager Vergennes

ANWSD needs some tax relief Now that the Addison Northwest school district has consolidated, we the taxpayers were to see a break in the excessively high property taxes ... a small penance was given, to be gobbled up by increases for the teachers ... if we vote this upcoming budget. How did we let this outrageous over-taxation happen?

Taxpayers have left our towns, our area will turn into a ghost town, those trying to sell now find stagnant real estate sales, even expensive lakefront properties have no market. Moving and paying on two properties is not affordable.

And the children we need for our school populations are vanishing.

When we have one centrally located school with excessive lengthy bus trips to get there, will our children spend more time on the bus than in school?

The only way to see tax reduction is to group together to ask for a “restructuring of the school budget.”

This is the year, as we consolidate.

I am circulating a petition (See Letter, Page 5A)

Shumlin helps write his legacy One of the key responsibilities either about the same percentage of governing is crafting a budget as the state’s economic and income that reflects Vermonters’ priorities growth, or slightly less.” and lives within our means as Additionally, over the past six a state. As we transition this years we have weaned Vermont off important responsibility one-time funds for to the incoming ongoing state expenses.

Administration, it’s One-time funds aren’t worth reviewing the last always bad. The federal six years of financial stimulus, for example, management. pumped one-time funds Let’s remember where into Vermont to jump start the economy. we started. Before I After Irene, Vermont took office, Vermont’s benefited from an influx budget routinely grew of one-time federal at upwards of 7 percent. funds to help us rebuild In 2004, the total funds nearly 500 miles of budget grew by 7.8 roads and bridges that percent above the year had been destroyed in before. In 2005, it grew the storm. by 13.4 percent. In 2006 No one is arguing it grew by 7 percent. Then This week’s writer that we should forgo the Great Recession hit, is Vermont Gov. such federal funding. decimating state budgets, Peter Shumlin.

But relying on one-time just as it did family budgets, around America. Because funds for ongoing state expenses is of that economic contraction, the dangerous because it leaves the first budget I inherited as Governor funding of important state programs included a $176 million shortfall. at the whims of the federal budget Six years later, by practicing fiscal process, which is unpredictable at discipline and making difficult best. The first budget I inherited in 2011 relied on $348 million in onechoices, we have righted the ship.

We slowed budget growth and kept time funds, of which $159 million it in line with Vermont’s economic was used to pay for ongoing state growth. The average annual growth expenses. I am proud that the last rate of Vermont’s total budget during budget I signed did not rely on any my tenure is 3.7 percent. During one-time funds for ongoing state that same time, Vermont’s economy, expenses, the first time in decades defined as the Vermont Gross State we were able to accomplish that.

Product, has grown at 3.1 percent.

We’ve also added to Vermont’s The budget that I submitted during strong fiscal legacy by balancing six the last legislative session grew by straight budgets while honoring our just 2.55 percent over the previous obligations to Vermont’s future. In year’s budget adjustment. each budget I signed we fully funded Despite what you hear about pension payments, refused to raid the budget growing faster than the our rainy day funds, met our debt economy, it is not true. According service and honored our statutory to VTDigger, “the [state] budget has obligation to the Education Fund. not been growing faster than wages The result? We have maintained the or the economy.” To back up that best credit rating among the New claim, VTDigger points to a Joint England states and one of the best in Fiscal Office Study, “which shows the country.

We’ve gone even further in that for most of the last decade ‘all state appropriations’ have risen at building Vermont’s reserve funds

Community

Forum

so the state will be ready if and when hard economic times return.

In our handoff to the incoming Administration, we are leaving a new reserve fund that will function as a stop gap against large caseload swings within the Agency of Human Services that have traditionally caused budget headaches. Using existing earned funds from within the Agency, we have been able to set up a reserve of approximately $100 million that will be there when Vermonters need it.

We’ve done all of this — balancing six budgets, keeping budget growth in line with economic growth, eliminating the use of one-time funds for ongoing state expenses and expanding our reserves — without asking Vermonters to pay higher incomes, sales, or rooms and meals tax rates. That is a promise I made to Vermonters when I ran for Governor, and one I was proud to deliver on.

At the end of the day, the budget is about more than strong fiscal management. It’s about setting priorities and investing in things that matter for Vermonters. On this front, we’ve made incredible progress.

Through investments in workforce, education, energy, health care, infrastructure and much more, we’ve created a stronger Vermont than we inherited six years ago.

The economy has added nearly 19,000 jobs; Vermonters’ incomes have grown above the national average each year since 2011, something that has never happened before; over 20,000 Vermonters who didn’t have health care coverage six years ago now do, giving the state one of the lowest uninsured rates in America; and our investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency has ensured that electric bills for over 80 percent of Vermonters have gone down three of the last four years, giving the state the second lowest energy rates in New England. That’s a legacy I am proud of.

Letter (Continued from Page 4A) seeking a 25 percent decrease in the school budget. And taxpayers and voters are signing it as fast as I can circulate it around for signatures. Twenty-five percent is a very reasonable request, as we are overtaxed by almost 50 percent. Cost per student is about $18,290.68, that amount was approved last March for ANwSU. Now, the teachers union ANTA comes in with increases for insurance and pay. At this cost all students should be brilliant and headed for the top colleges in the nation, however they are not up to par.

I am not against the teachers, these are the professionals who are there to teach and educate students of this district, and I have told them that at two negotiation meetings, when I addressed them face to face. What I am against is the fact that we are no longer able to keep paying them additional wages, while we can no longer pay property taxes, or see our towns go without the necessary funds to run our towns. I have also stated that the excessive salaries can no longer be paid. Social Security persons are 80 percent or more

of the population here with a $3 a month raise, this does not pay for a teacher salary increase. Nor should we be asked to do this. It is unreasonable.

I told them they are the cliff edge and we the taxpayers are all done paying. I had 100 signatures last week, with ease, and, many more this week. Many ideas have been verbalized, to save costs; perhaps the superintendent’s office will be shut down.

Why do we have an expensive superintendent’s office, when the enrollment is down and space is available at one of the schools.

Or will we close Addison Central School due to the low enrollment?

Of course this school is totally out of debt, and in the best of condition, running with a good furnace. Our town’s people will not want this closing.

A complete overhaul of the budget needs to be done by a qualified person who knows what he/she is doing — not the school board or the superintendent. The new consolidated board lacks expertise and knowledge and stated so at a recent meeting. And the superintendent works for us, we tell her what is to be done, not her

telling us. We have the control and power here to correct the budget.

The school board needs our support, I would like more voters there, not just reps for the teachers to make everyone feel we need to pay more.

The payout limit has been met. A few people in the community should not put poverty on the rest for their wants of high wages.

When taxes are lowered we will then see families move into our area, buy property and build homes.

Then we will have more tax base to support education.

The consensus is that Montpelier is the problem, that is for sure. Mandates will have to come with the funds for the laws they pass.

Do try to attend some meeting and do vote the budget down if cuts are not made. And I will persist to get signers for the petition. Emails can also be submitted.

Elizabeth Armstrong Addison

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 5A

Letters to the Editor Communities can heal through caring, good deeds A couple weeks before Thanksgiving this Gospel song came to me. “There’s a healing somewhere. There’s a healing somewhere. Don’t you go until you find it. There’s a healing somewhere.” Sister Alice Martin taught me that Gospel song. Sister Alice is the pastor of a church in the heart of Philadelphia. Her congregation includes people released from prison, recovering addicts, and anyone else who feels welcomed in her presence.

I tell you this story since we have experienced the jolt of the election. I remain with an open heart and mind.

I realize that the most important work I can do (since I am retired) is community based. I want to know that community members have food and a warm place to live this winter season. The Have a Heart Food Shelf, Project Warmth, CVOEO, the Charter House Coalition, WomenSafe, HOPE, John Graham Shelter, COTS, United Way… welcome donations.

I also want our community to continue to listen to each others’ stories, like the “Moth style” storytelling events we have had at Holley Hall in Bristol. Maybe we can even have a community potluck.

When we do, bring extra food, so that anyone can come, with or without a food donation.

Why is community so important?

At this time in our lives, we can be driven by forces that polarize us. I

(Continued from Page 4A) “deal maker.” Trump does not seem to understand the notion of constitutional limits on the presidency. He believes, as he said in his acceptance speech at the Republican Convention, that “I alone can fix it.”

Such an attitude is not consistent

(Continued from Page 4A) conspiracy theorists).

The album borrows from olde English carols and black spirituals alike, complete with gut-string guitar, glockenspiel, heavenly harmonies, and a bouzouki played by Dave Guard.

(Local angle: Guard’s daughter went to Middlebury College.)

Wikipedia calls the album “their most musically ambitious and also one of the Trio’s least known.”

You can pick it up online for, well, a song. Or you can, like any sensible person, get that album and virtually every other one ever recorded via Spotify.

Yes, Pandora will get you free Christmas music, to play in the background while you’re arguing with your relatives about whether Donald Trump is truly insane or merely incompetent.

But nothing brings you the world of holiday music like Spotify.

Want peace of mind for your family?

Invest in your community.

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with the design of the constitutional system at the time of the founding.

Congress and the courts must be willing to challenge that conception of the presidency. A key question for the next four years will be whether the partisanship that now completely dominates Congress, and even has

started to creep into the federal courts, will overcome the institutional obligations of the legislative and judicial branches.

Eric L. Davis is professor emeritus of political science at Middlebury College.

I mean, it’s all there. Mommy kissing Santa Claus. John Denver pleading, “Please, daddy, don’t get drunk this Christmas.” Elvis reminding us he’ll have a b-b-blue blue Christmas without you.

And where else are you going to have instant access to the lesserknown Elvis Christmas songs, such as “Santa Claus is Back in Town”?

Wherein Elvis tells his girlfriend:

If you’re looking for tips on what to listen to this holiday season, Rolling Stone magazine put together a list of the top 25 Christmas albums ever — “from Bing Crosby to Bob Dylan, Motown to Death Row.” Or you can just tune in to Frankie:

Dennis

Holiday Hours and Deadlines Thursday, December 29 Arts & Leisure Wed, Dec 21 • Noon A & B Sections Fri, Dec 23 • 5pm ALL OTHER DEADLINES REMAIN UNCHANGED

verses. (If you want to know the tune, go to youtube and type in: there’s more love somewhere.)

And Sister Alice? She has offered many lessons over the years. Here are some: “You are precious. You are a jewel. Sometimes, you have to make adjustments. There is a fighter in you. Find good news in bad times.

Strength in our internal helps us face the external. Where you are right now is a piece of the puzzle.

We don’t know what we’ve signed up for. Show yourself mighty. Show yourself strong, in the midst of the storm. Live, on purpose. A little love goes a long way. There is no room for the haters. Embrace life.

Embrace the repositioning that life brings. A most devastating thing is to forget where you come from. You forget your compassion. Find peace in the midst of the storm.”

Thank you, Sister Alice. Thank you community members, open to listening.

Thank you beloved community.

“In the Beloved Community, poverty, hunger and homelessness will not be tolerated because international standards of human decency will not allow it. Racism and all forms of discrimination, bigotry and prejudice will be replaced by an all-inclusive spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood.” (thekingcenter.org, “The King Philosophy”).

Patricia Heather-Lea Bristol

Davis

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EDITION

do not want to fall into the trap of judging others or demonizing others.

I rather we share our common humanity. I borrow these words from a meditation teacher.

“May all beings be filled with loving kindness. May all beings be held in loving kindness.” I like the internal/external aspects of these states of being. It is a difficult time to seek truth and meaning. We are bombarded with words, images, and symbols that do not embellish our common humanity.

I am grateful to the Addison Independent for offering itself up as a potential community writing project, by allowing us to speak through letters to the editor. On Nov. 21, faith leaders in the Middlebury area wrote, “And we encourage members of our communities to engage in acts of compassion and solidarity as a public statement to our shared humanity.” Thank you for your collective wisdom.

On Thanksgiving day, Mr. Trump joined my vision of searching for healing. Two days later I sent him this message in a postcard. “Dear Mr. Trump, If you want our nation to heal, then surround yourself with a team of open minded and open hearted people. Your actions speak louder than your words. Sincerely, Patty” And that Gospel song? It has many verses: “There’s more love somewhere.” “There’s more peace somewhere.” “There’s more joy somewhere.” Make up your own

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Got no sleigh with reindeer Got no sack on my back You’re gonna see me comin’ In a big black Cadillac Ol’ Elvis really put one over on the censors with the next verse: Hang up your pretty stockings And turn off the light Santa Claus is coming Down your chimney tonight

Though the years We all will be together If the fates allow Hang a shining star Upon the highest bow And have yourself A merry little Christmas now Merry Christmas, everybody.

Gregory Dennis’s column appears here every other Thursday and is archived on his blog at www. gregdennis.wordpress.com. Email: gregdennisvt@yahoo.com. Or stop by and say hi at the North Pole.

PAGE 6A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

ADDISON COUNTY

Obituaries

Arnold Frederic Lattrell, 98, formerly of Addison

Norma Marion Sutton Denu, 83, Shelburne SHELBURNE, Vt. — Mrs. Norma Marion Sutton Denu, 83, of Shelburne, Vt., passed away Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016. Norma was the only child born to W. Harry and Marion Slockbower Sutton on July 21, 1933, in Paterson, N.J. Norma grew up in Glen Rock, N.J., where her father was a Methodist minister.

She attended Ridgewood High School and graduated in 1951. She was a proud alumna of St. Lawrence University and earned her degree in sociology in 1955. She began a legacy at St. Lawrence University with her son, David, and daughter, Kristen, and grandson, Douglas, also graduating from SLU. She belonged to the Kappa Delta sorority while attending the University.

Norma married Philip Edwin Denu Jr. on July 2, 1955. She aided her new husband in starting his dental practice before becoming a homemaker.

Norma was a warm, giving woman, who enjoyed taking care of others.

She always placed others before herself. She volunteered at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, N.J., as a gray lady, and then later at Wake Robin in Shelburne, Vt. Norma was an active member of

NORMA DENU The Ridgewood United Methodist Church, and sang in her church choir for a time. She enjoyed playing bridge, piano, Scrabble, as well as solitaire on her computer. She was a member of a college book group, as well. She actively immersed herself within her new Wake Robin community and prided herself on

learning new things such as the computer and even taking selfies.

Norma was a true matriarch where her family meant everything to her.

Norma is survived by her husband, Philip Edwin Denu Jr.; three sons, Philip Edwin III (Neusa); David Sutton (Theresa); and Eric Roger (Janice); her two daughters, Nicole Marion Thorn (Kenneth); and Kristen Norma; and her eleven grandchildren, Christopher Eric, Timothy Lawrence (Amanda), Douglas Charles, Kayla, Brian Raymond, Andrew Philip (Hannah), Nicholas David, Benjamin Alexander, Joshua Philip, Meredith Nancy and Cameron Jeffrey; and one great-grandchild, Beckett Philip. She is predeceased by her parents, W. Harry Sutton and Marion Slockbower Sutton and stepmother, Edith Pearson Sutton.

The service of remembrance was held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at The Middlebury United Methodist Church, 43 North Pleasant St., Middlebury 05753.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Middlebury United Methodist Church.◊

Mary Ellen Sessa, Bristol BRISTOL — Mary Ellen Sessa was born on Oct. 1, 1943 to Vincent J. and M. Frances (Lane) Sessa.

She graduated from Burlington High School in 1961 and earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Vermont.

After college she joined the Peace Corps and went to Brazil.

This was a very happy learning time for her where she met lots of wonderful people from both Brazil and the United States and formed several lifelong friendships.

Following her time in the Peace Corp, Mary Ellen taught Elementary School in Washington D.C., before obtaining her Master’s Degree in Reading at the University of Maryland. After two years teaching Remedial Reading in Bladensburg, Md., she returned to Vermont and made her home in Bristol.

For 15 years she taught Reading at Vergennes Union High School while also serving as the Faculty Advisor for the American Field Service. Through AFS she had many adventures with her exchange students from all over the world and the members of the club at the school.

In 1990 Mary Ellen became a Certified School Administrator through a program at St. Michael’s College. She later served as Administrator of Enosburg Falls Middle and High School. Upon her retirement she began substitute teaching in her home town of

MARY SESSA Bristol where she had the time of her life associating with Mt. Abe’s finest young people.

Her teaching did not stop there.

As a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church she was a longtime Catechism Teacher who adored all her students. She also served as a Eucharistic Minister.

Mary Ellen was witty and had a great zest for life. She enjoyed the outdoors, traveling and most of all spending time at Colchester Point at her summer camp. She loved a good joke, a good book and a good time with friends and family. Mary

Ellen was incredibly grateful for all the amazing friends she made throughout her life. She felt that without them, she would have been nothing. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sister Susan (Donald) Gerry of Ocala, Fla.. and their children Michael and Matthew Gerry and their families as well as her brother Vincent (Maureen) Sessa of Lynwood, Wash., and their children Catherine Sessa Taylor and James Sessa and their families. She also leaves behind many, many dear cousins and her cat, Sissy. Besides her parents she was predeceased by her brother Francis “Frank” Sessa in 1991.

The family would like thank those who helped and supported Mary Ellen, especially Stacy Tallen, Pat Finnerty, Michelle Eastman and the wonderful staff at Addison County Home Health and Hospice.

There will be no calling hours.

A mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. for Mary Ellen on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Bristol followed by a reception in the hall. Burial will take place after the luncheon at the Sessa Family Plot in St. Anne’s Cemetery in Milton. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s Ellen’s name can be sent to St. Ambrose Church, 11 School St. Bristol, VT 05443.

To send online condolences to her family please visit www. brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com. ◊

SALISBURY, Conn. — Arnold Frederic Lattrell went to be with the Lord on Dec. 10, 2016, at the age of 98. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at Noble Horizons Nursing Home in Salisbury, Conn., with his daughter Jean and his son Fred by his side.

Arnold was born on Nov. 11, 1918 in New Haven, Vt. He married Dolores Provencher in 1942. He then served honorably in the US Army from 1942 to 1945. He served in the European Theater in World War II. After serving in World War II he came home and owned and operated a dairy farm in Addison, Vt. He later worked many years for NYS Division for youth. He retired from his position there in 1980. Arnold was an avid hunter and fisherman.

He was truly an exceptional baseball pitcher. He was an avid Red Sox fan.

He loved most outdoor activities and excelled in any sport he participated in.

His wife of 64 years, Dolores predeceased him in 2001 as did his son Donald in 2016, and four grandchildren: Donald Jr. and Mark Lattrell, Eric Lattrell and Teresa Lattrell Horton.

He is survived by six sons, Louis and wife Cindy of Perry, Ga.;

ARNOLD LATTRELL Frederic and wife Tia of Amenia, N.Y.; William and wife Carrie of Amenia, N.Y.; Gary and wife Ellen of Pawling, N.Y.; John and significant other Joan of Massena, N.Y.; James and wife Barbara of Sharon, Conn.; three daughters, Joan MacDonald of Cleveland, Tenn.; Jean Meyer of Millbrook, N.Y.; and Janette Lattrell of Vergennes, Vt.; and daughter-in-

law Barbara Lattrell of Kingston, N.Y. Other survivors include his brother Robert, Buster, Lattrell and his wife Norene of Vergennes, Vt., and several nieces and nephews.

Arnold is also survived by 30 grandchildren, 62 greatgrandchildren and 12 great-greatgrandchildren.

Arnold was very gifted with his hands and his intellect. He could do nearly anything he set his mind to and he would eagerly help anyone who needed him. He was loved and respected by all who knew him.

In his retirement Arnold very much enjoyed working in his garden and tending to his horses, traveling to Florida and spending time with his friend Shirley LaBerge and the local seniors group.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Vergennes Seniors Club, Attn. Liz Lowry, 62 High Manor Park, Waltham, VT 05491.

Visiting hours were held Wednesday, Dec. 14, at BrownMcClay Funeral Home in Vergennes from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. A mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 15, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Vergennes. Interment will be in Lake View Cemetery in West Addison.◊

Jody Lee Cousino, 38, Bristol BRISTOL — Jody Lee Cousino, born March 9, 1978 in Middlebury, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 12, 2016 in his home in Bristol.

Jody is survived by his mother Jane Coffin; daughter Grace Cousino; grandmothers Silvia Coffin and Veronica Jerome; friend Anna Alan; and daughter Marisa. Jody is also survived by several friends and family members. Jody graduated from Mount Abraham Union High School in 1996.

There will be a celebration of Jody’s life on Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Bristol Legion from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Bristol Rescue Squad.◊

ANWSD to hear teacher salary pitch VERGENNES — Teacher representatives of the Addison Northwest Teachers’ Association (ANTA) are scheduled to present their proposals regarding salary, benefits including health insurance, and grievance procedures for the 2017-2018 school year at the next meeting of the negotiation committee. That meeting will take place next Monday, Dec. 19, at 5 p.m. in the Vergennes Union High School library.

This will be the 5th negotiation meeting between the Addison Northwest School District and ANTA. The board’s proposal, delivered at the Oct. 25 meeting, included articles on rates of pay, hours of work, health insurance and grievance procedures. The Dec. 19 will be ANTA’s first response.

Although teacher contract negotiations have historically been held behind closed doors, the ANWSD Board has said that its members believe that the public interest is best served through transparency. Therefore, the board has decided to hold these negotiation meetings in public.

The board has hired a consultant to get out the word encouraging residents of Addison, Ferrisburgh, Panton, Vergennes, and Waltham to take advantage of this opportunity to engage with the future of our children’s education by attending contract negotiation meetings.

JODY COUSINO

Grace Weber of Weybridge WEYBRIDGE — Grace Weber of Weybridge passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2016.

She is survived by her husband,

Steve, and six sons and daughters.

A full obituary will appear in a future edition of the Addison Independent.

Middlebury Methodist Church holiday concert to benefit Charter House MIDDLEBURY — The Sixth Annual Benefit Concert and Hymn Sing for the Charter House Coalition will be held at the Middlebury United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

Local artists will perform a variety of seasonal music including traditional offerings as well as more contemporary works.

Admission is free and the program is for all age groups. An offering will

be taken to support the housing and feeding programs at Charter House.

The audience will be invited to sing favorite Christmas hymns.

There will be a free reception following the concert. All proceeds will go to Charter House.

All are invited to join in for this annual seasonal celebration! For further information contact Tom Colley by email: atrscolley@aol. com.

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John Graham Housing and Services Thanks all who slept out, donated, and came to the vigil.

Special thanks to:

Addison Advisors The Marbleworks Middlebury Bagel Shelburne Meat Market Malabar Gaines Insurance Strong House Inn Vergennes Animal Hospital Vergennes Laundry Smith and McClain Attorneys at Sheehy Furlong and Behm Blue Ledge Farm William Benton Appraisors Houghton Mifflin Harcourt The Middlebury Coop Vermont Gas Wildflower Ironworks

People moving home, one family at at time!

To help: www.johngrahamshelter.org

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 7A

Cross-country trip healthy for couple The cross-country trip is 10,000 sport, losing or winning with equal miles long, having wound its way to grace. Perhaps this quality, but the northern Midwest, south to the something has made him a superior Corn Belt, west across the plains to card player. His bump appears only the Rockies, south through desert, if no one will play. Our road game and west again to the Pacific. We is cribbage. With little access to are off the road for a while in Santa other entertainment, there’s time for a game after dinner. I complain Cruz.

The three of us, husband, springer during the game as I fall behind, and spaniel and I, live in a twenty-foot when he wins, I softly mutter our camper van, roughly 160 square feet compulsory “glad that you won” as minus 50 for engine. If we were any he says “sorry you lost” with what larger than our slightly taller than sounds like real regret.

These are the bumps that arise average heights, or without slightly greater than average flexibility for but pass quickly like those digital people in their seventies, we would signs overhead flashing warnings.

The corner that not be doing this. we must slow down The dog at sixtyto steer around, tack three in people years across or detour to is a better age for it. avoid is my need to The trip has two know ahead what tangible goals: to the day may hold. learn family history I see now why I by spending time spent so much time with relatives and to writing lesson plans visit our son. It has as a teacher. I like a third goal, not so planning and letting tangible: experience ideas percolate again a sense of awhile. My best fresh possibilities ideas, like my part felt when we in making this a year committed to being of travel, bloom together fortyslowly after months five years ago, the in the making. summer of ’71, and My husband headed west on our

By Jill Vickers jumbles directions first cross-country and signage as we trip with pup tent and cook pot in a used Chevy Bel drive in new territory. That’s a corner that creates waves of distress Air, top of the line in ’61.

But none of these goals turn out and words of disdain.

The ways we navigate such to be what makes the trip. John Steinbeck wrote of a voyage he bumps and corners create the undertook from a California port pattern of the trip. Relishing little into the Sea of Cortez. (The Log victories like finding the perfect from The Sea of Cortez). For a book campsite before dark also create collaboration, Ed Ricketts, marine the pattern. The changes do too. biologist, and he would collect and The three of us have given up preserve specimens. They rented a wandering around at night between 75-foot fishing boat and hired the sleeps. We use more courtesy being forced to ask for items we can’t four-man crew.

Steinbeck and Ricketts put in reach without making the other long hours with little sleep, in person move. We all relish the way cramped quarters and without the smell of bacon in the pan fills enough food. The work became the space and the shafts of filtered monotonous. What didn’t was light finally reach us from the lofty what he called finding “the pattern heights of the redwoods at mid-day.

Some of our 10,000 miles were of the trip,” the way personalities were “shuffled together, changing a on roads twisting up and down little to fit into the box, yet bringing mesas in 15 mph switchbacks and their own bumps and corners” with on narrow roads winding their way from coastline to the deep forest them.

Fitting into our 110 square foot with Sequoias at the edge. Years box, we are discovering our bumps from now we will recall the roads, and corners, qualities that reveal the sights, the smells, the light; but themselves in this out-of-the- more importantly, we will recall the way we committed to the trip ordinary life.

Here’s a bump of mine. I am very and kept our balance over its rough slow getting up in the morning. bumps and around its sharp corners.

Steinbeck’s wife was on his sea This habit set in right after I no longer had to answer the alarm and voyage in 1940. Unfortunately, rise early to get to school. What is the journey did not repair their new is because we’re all in one box, failing marriage as he had hoped. my husband can’t help but see me Fortunately, our trip is renewing lying there, and I can hear every and refreshing ours. word of contempt. He feeds the dog Jill Vickers is a native of the and makes coffee. Sometimes I take Champlain Valley, a retired teacher so long to get up, I fall back asleep. of literacy and the founder of a The first shuffle of personalities video production company. Special begins this way each day. interests include family history, Little bumps like this fill our travel and outdoor activities. She box on wheels. Another one: I lives with her husband and their hate losing. My husband is a good springer spaniel in Bridport.

Ways of Seeing

FIFTEEN LOCAL LAW enforcement officers, including Middlebury Police Chief Tom Hanley (sitting with tie) and Sheriff Don Keeler (standing, third from right) met with Camp Ta-Kum-Ta official Lindsey Longe (center) to give her the nearly $2,000 they donated as the result of their “Deer Camp Beards for Cancer” challenge. Many local cops didn’t shave for a month.

Independent photo/John Flowers

Hirsute officers raise funds for Ta-Kum-Ta Beards equaled bucks last month

By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — The face of Addison County’s law enforcement community will be more recognizable this week after having been shorn of a month’s worth of whiskers — all grown for the benefit of a camp that helps very sick children.

Many officers representing the Middlebury, Bristol and Vergennes police forces, along with deputies with the Addison County Sheriff’s Department, recently took part in a challenge called “deer camp beards for cancer.” Participants were granted a temporary reprieve from their respective agencies’ grooming standards and were allowed to grow beards through deer hunting season — provided they each contributed at least $30 to Camp Ta-Kum-Ta.

Based in South Hero, Camp TaKum-Ta provides great recreational experiences for children battling cancer, and their families.

A collection of shaggy lawmen gathered at the Middlebury Police Department on Friday, Dec. 9, to pose for a group mug shot and learn that their bristles had swept in a grand total of $1,985 for Camp TaKum-Ta. Lindsey Longe, director of development for the camp, said the much-needed funds will fuel the non-profit’s operating budget.

“I just wanted to come up and say thank you,” Longe said as she received envelopes of cash and/ or checks from the participating departments.

“I’m really, really grateful.”

Longe shared a special thanks for Middlebury police Officer Darrin Hinterneder, who came up with the beard benefit idea. He got a bunch of his colleagues to participate —

including Chief Tom Hanley — and then reached out to other local law enforcement agencies. More than 20 officers countywide ultimately signed on.

The beards were gone by Monday, Dec. 12.

“It was a great response from the community,” said Hinterneder, who believes the officers inspired some members of the public to embrace the cause with their own private donations to Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, launched in 1984 to serve Vermont and northern New York children between the ages 7-17, at no cost to their families.

Each summer Camp Ta-KumTa tries to squeeze as many life experiences and memories as possible into one week, according to its online literature. Along with traditional camp activities such as swimming, athletics, ropes course, and arts and crafts, Ta-Kum-Ta

offers rock climbing expeditions, hot-air balloon rides, formal dances and lake cruises.

The camp is an independent, tax-exempt organization. Thanks to the community support and approximately 120 staff volunteers, Ta-Kum-Ta has expanded from its one week summer camp to offering programs year round. It has an annual budget of around $900,000, derived from grants, foundations, private donations and from around 70 events each year — now including Addison County’s “deer camp beards for kids with cancer.”

Hinterneder is already planning on growing his beard again next deer season, and hopes to expand the number of participants.

“We will hopefully be able to grow this bigger next year,” Hinterneder said.

Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.

Addison town plan OK’d, with solar caveat

By ANDY KIRKALDY ADDISON — The Addison selectboard has approved an updated town plan, a move that will allow the Addison Planning Commission to begin work on new zoning regulations.

The town plan replaces a 2014 interim plan and lays the groundwork for new zoning laws that would allow for smaller lots in the town’s biggest zoning district.

It also creates the basis for new regulations at the town level on solar arrays and wind power generators.

The town now has interim regulations on the siting of solar arrays that the selectboard adopted in July.

However, the selectboard on Dec. 6 only adopted the plan, according to meeting minutes, “with the stipulation the Energy Portion be reviewed by Town Meeting.”

Residents Jeff Nelson and Alden Harwood attended both the selectboard’s Dec. 6 public hearing and the planning commission’s

earlier hearing on the new Energy section and said it exceeded the town’s regulatory authority.

Members of the Addison Planning Commission, who have spent years rewriting zoning and the town plan, this summer added the Energy section. Planners did so after the Legislature passed a bill giving towns the right to go before the Public Service Board on proposals for solar arrays and wind power generators — but only if towns had standards in their plans to regulate renewable energy projects.

The Addison draft plan’s provisions on “Energy” include: • A ban on commercial solar projects generating more than 15 kilowatts a year in the Village Center (Addison Four Corners) and two lakefront districts.

• A limit of 500 kilowatts for projects in the Low Density Rural Agricultural zone that is by far the town’s largest, and a complete ban in the Conservation district.

• A ban of commercial wind projects on Snake Mountain, and a case-by-case review of smaller-scale wind turbines in other areas.

• Support for home roof-mounted solar arrays, but a limit of how high they can reach over roof peaks (10 feet).

• Requirements for the use of landscape screening and natural topography to limit projects’ visual impact.

Nelson and Harwood at the September planning commission hearing said the provisions in some

cases were discriminatory because the same standards were not applied to other commercial development.

Planners defended the section, noting that much of the language was approved by regional planners, and is thus likely to be legal. They also said the chapter meets the goal of getting the town a say when proposed solar or wind projects go before the Public Service Board.

Key among other provisions is that the plan calls for creating “a density based zoning code” in the (See Addison, Page 14A)

PAGE 8A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

community Dec

15

THURSDAY

calendar

Green Mountain Club hike in Ripton.

Thursday, Dec. 15, Water Tower Trails, Ripton. Hike or snowshoe from the Robert Frost Interpretive area. This is a 3-4 mile hike lasting 2-3 hours in duration. Moderate difficulty with an elevation gain of about 500 feet. Poles, water, snacks and depending on weather crampons and/or snowshoes. Contact Ruth Penfield for meeting time at 388-5407 or ruthpenfield@gmail.com. Info: www. gmcbreadloaf.org.

Moonlight madness in Brandon. Thursday, Dec. 15, 4-9 p.m., downtown Brandon. Moonlight Madness in Brandon is a time for sales, discounts, specials, exceptional deals, warm drinks and sweet treats.

Many shops offering 20 percent off storewide. Shop local.

Brain injury support group in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 15, 6-7:30 p.m., Ilsley Public Library. The Middlebury Brain Injury Support Group will be meeting to discuss “Moving on to a better place and with holiday cheer.” Questions? Contact Lisa at 388-2720.

Santa calls in Bristol. Thursday, Dec. 15, 6-8 p.m. The Bristol Recreation Department has reached an agreement with Santa’s North Pole Headquarters to arrange a phone call from Santa to local children. Register at www.bristolrec.org by Dec. 10. $5 per family.

“Taking Flight” in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m., Mahaney Center for the Arts, Middlebury College. A “lightly produced” showing of dance experiments by the new batch of choreographers emerging from the Improvisational Practices course, facilitated

by Lida Winfield. Sponsored by the Dance Program.

Free.

Dec

16

FRIDAY

Hanukkah story time in Lincoln. Friday, Dec. 16, 10:30 a.m., Lincoln Library. A special visitor will share Hanukkah traditions along with stories, songs, snack and a craft.

Ugly sweater holiday party in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 16, 5-8 p.m., Stonecutter Spirits, 1197 Exchange St. Ring in the season with special festive cocktails, boozy Christmas cookies, an ugly sweater competition and holiday merriment. A variety of delicious pierogis from Luiza’s Homemade with Love available for purchase. Free to attend.

Community Christmas caroling in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 16, 6 p.m., Holley Hall. Join us in front of Holley Hall where we will go out to sing Christmas carols to our community. We will meet back at Holley Hall for cocoa and cookies. Children under age 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Family movie night in Salisbury. Friday, Dec. 16, 6 p.m., Salisbury School. Come see “Pete’s Dragon” at family movie night. Pizza slices and other refreshments will be for sale.

Dec

17

SATURDAY Visit with Santa in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m.-noon, Danforth Pewter.

Come enjoy an old-fashioned visit with Santa.

Free.

Hot chocolate hut in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cannon Park. Take a break from shopping to make a cup of hot cocoa from the Hot Cocoa Hut. Just 25 cents for a cup with all the fixings!

Standing strong

SHOW YOUR SOLIDARITY for the Water Protectors who are still standing strong in North Dakota. Join in an evening of peace, love, community and dancing with local band Gumbo Ya-Ya at Burnham Hall in Lincoln on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 7:30-10:30 p.m. $10 minimum donation; children are free.

Memorial Tree lighting in New Haven. Saturday, Dec. 17, 5 p.m., Town Green. The Memorial Tree lighting will take place on the Town Green, sponsored by the New Haven Volunteer Fire Department.

Decorate the Memorial Tree in New Haven.

Saturday, Dec. 17, 5-6 p.m., Town Green. Decorate the Memorial Tree, take a horse drawn wagon ride, warm your hands by the fire barrels, make and eat s’mores, sing carols and roast marshmallows and chestnuts with family, friends and neighbors. Santa will arrive at the bandstand around 5 p.m.

Sing-a-long in New Haven. Saturday, Dec. 17, 6 p.m., Town Green. Join the Congregational Church for the magical sounds of hand bell ringing, caroling with the choir and a sing-a-long! Free hot refreshments and yummy desserts will follow downstairs in the Church. For more information, contact Suzy Roorda at 453-5978 or newhavenrec@gmavt.net.

Songs of the season in Bristol. Saturday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m., Holley Hall. Come listen to performances by area musicians and choirs and children’s groups.

Celebrate the music of the season. $5 suggested donation. Interested performers should contact Bristol Recreation office at www.bristolrec.org.

Christmas ball in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 17, 7-10 p.m., Vergennes Opera House. Come join Joe’s Big Band and Charter House Coalition for plenty of seasonal refreshments, wonderful dance music and time for good conversation with friends and family. Champlain Orchards will be offering cider. Proceeds from the event will support the emergency housing and food programs of Charter House Coalition. Suggested donation $20 adults and $10 teens. Children are free.

Celebration of Christmas in Monkton. Sunday, Dec. 18, 4 p.m., East Monkton Church. Join in the ninth annual community-wide “A Celebration of Christmas” with carolers and more at the historic East Monkton Church. There will be stories and music, plus singing along to Christmas carols. Free, but donations will benefit the church restoration fund. Please note there are no restroom facilities at the church. Info: 453-7575.

Live nativity production in Brandon. Sunday, Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m., Brandon Baptist Church. Join us as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with a production of the live nativity on the steps of the church. Following the program, there will be refreshments including soups, cookies, hot cocoa and coffee.

Dec

19

MONDAY

Blood drive in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 19, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Middlebury EMS Building, 55 Collins Drive. The Red Cross urges blood donation as one last gift to give this holiday season.

Holiday celebration in Lincoln. Monday, Dec. 19, 3:30 p.m., Lincoln Library. Join us as we delve into the Grinch’s deceitful attempt at stopping Christmas as we celebrate this holiday of joy and peace with treats from Who-ville. Everyone is welcome. Info: 453-2665.

Dec

21

WEDNESDAY Winter solstice gathering in Bristol.

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 5:30-8 p.m., Waterworks Property, 4783 Plank Road,

UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, December 16

Be sure to check out the fliers in our paper this week!

Great information from:

• Sears

Plus, see the Winter High School SPORTS REPORT a special publication of the

12:00pm lunch time public skate 7:45pm adult intro & intermediate hockey clinics

Saturday, December 17 8:00pm DJ Skate Night

Sunday, December 18 2:15pm public skate

Tuesday, December 20

9:00am public skate 10:45am figure skate only 12:00pm adult stick & puck Hockey Skate Rental: Youth size 8J to Adult 13

LET US HOST YOUR EVENT!

Memorial Sports Center

296 Buttolph Drive • Middlebury, VT

802-388-1238

info@memorialsportscenter.org www.memorialsportscenter.org

LIVE NATIVITY

JOIN US THIS CHRISTMAS AS WE CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST! THE SHOWING WILL BE ON THE FRONT STEPS OF THE CHURCH REFRESHMENTS WILL FOLLOW AFTER THE PROGRAM INCLUDING: SOUPS - COOKIES - HOT COCOA AND COFFEE! at Brandon Baptist Church, 6:30 pm, December 18, 2016

Gift Certificates Available

Holiday Special: Purchase a $25 gift card and be entered in a drawing to win more!

Cuts • Colors • Perms Waxing for Men & Women 31 Court St. (at hair network), Middlebury (802) 989-8188

Stephanie Sweeney

J&S Salon

Joe’s Big Band

COME JOIN JOE’S BIG BAND and Charter House Coalition for seasonal refreshments and wonderful dance music at the Christmas Ball on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 7-10 p.m., at the Vergennes Opera House. Proceeds will support the emergency housing and food programs of Charter House Coalition. Suggested donation $20 adults/$10 teens. Children are free.

Free gift wrapping. Saturday, Dec. 17, noon-4 p.m., 51 Main. Free gift wrapping for any gift purchased in Middlebury, courtesy of the Better Middlebury Partnership, just show your receipt.

Santa visit in Monkton. Saturday, Dec. 17, 1 p.m., Monkton Volunteer Fire Department. Come early to see Santa arrive by fire truck and bring your camera for a picture with the jolly old elf! There will be cookies, juice and candy canes to enjoy while you wait for your visit.

Baking event in Bridport. Saturday, Dec. 17, 1:30 p.m., Grange Hall in Bridport. Come alone or bring the whole family and make angel flake rolls and Christmas sugar cookies. Everyone is welcome.

Call or text 802-989-3237 to let us know you are coming so we have enough supplies. Free.

Memory tree lighting in Leicester. Saturday, Dec. 17, 4 p.m., Four Corners. The Leicester Historical Society is sponsoring the annual Memory Tree at the Four Corners. Purchase a bulb for $1 or six names for $5 to remember a departed loved one.

Send your payment made out to the Leicester Historical Society, with the names clearly written, to Diane Benware, 1594 Old Jerusalem Road, Salisbury VT 05769. The list of names will be posted at the Town Office. Deadline for submitting names is Monday, Dec. 12.

Winterfest in New Haven. Saturday, Dec. 17, 4:30 p.m., Congregational Church, Town Hill Road.

Festivities begin with tasty treats and hot refreshments such as hot cocoa, tea, coffee, eggnog or cider.

Benefit concert for Standing Rock in Lincoln.

Saturday, Dec. 17, 7:30-10:30 p.m., Burnham Hall.

Show your solidarity for the Water Protectors who are still standing strong against the DAPL in North Dakota.

Join us for an evening of peace, love, community and dancing with local band Gumbo Ya-Ya. $10 minimum donation; kids free.

Dec

18

SUNDAY

Christmas dinner and festival at Mary’s at Baldwin Creek in Bristol.

Sunday, Dec. 18, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Mary’s at Baldwin Creek. Bristol’s Christmas dinner and festival has become an anticipated tradition in the community for over three decades.

All Addison County residents are invited to share in the holiday spirit at this free event. A turkey and ham dinner paired with superb local entertainment are some of the highlights. Transportation available. Requests for transportation and home delivery to shut-ins must be received by Dec. 16.

Call 453-2342.

Annual Messiah Sing in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 18, 2 p.m., Middlebury Congregational Church. Annual Middlebury Messiah Sing with Jeff Rehbach conducting. Signers and players gather each December for a joyful reading and rendering of selections from Handel’s Messiah.

Come enjoy this Middlebury holiday tradition!

Info: 989-7355.

Bristol. Come one, come all to the annual Winter Solstice gathering at the Waterworks property in Bristol. Follow a trail of luminaries to the Norton Brook Reservoir and join the festivities — bonfire, potluck, music by Rick Cebellos and friends, community singing and solstice pageantry. Bring a potluck dish to share, musical instrument, flashlight and plenty of layers and boots. Please leave pets at home.

Dec

22

THURSDAY

Christmas candlelight service in Starksboro. Thursday, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m., Starksboro Village Meeting House. The annual Starksboro village meeting house Christmas candlelight service will be held with the Rev. John Burbank leading the program of lessons and carols.

Pianist Lois Burbank will be accompanied by Daniel Phillips on violin and vocalist Joanne Russell.

Dec

23

FRIDAY

Santa story time in Lincoln. Friday, Dec. 23, 10:30 a.m., Lincoln Library. Come and hear stories celebrating St. Nick. Cookies, crafts and maybe a very special visitor from the North Pole!

Lumen in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 23, evening, downtown Bristol. Come to Lumen, Bristol’s celebration of fire and light.

community Dec

24

SATURDAY

calendar

Christmas Eve service in Shoreham.

Saturday, Dec. 24, 5 p.m., Shoreham Congregational Church. The Shoreham Congregational Church will celebrate a traditional Christmas Eve service in the sanctuary. The Rev. Christina Del Piero will lead the service of carols, candles and a spiritual message.

Dec

31

SATURDAY

Best Night in Bristol. Saturday, Dec. 31, 5 p.m., First Baptist Church of Bristol.

The First Baptist Church of Bristol is offering a homemade soup supper with special breads and brownies. There are a variety of soups and chili to choose from. Enjoy the music and warm up with a soup supper.

The Grift in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater. The best band and best brew in New England come together on the region’s biggest dance floor for a New Year’s Eve Party. The Otter Creek Brewing folks will serve some of their newest beers and The Grift is guaranteed to get you on your feet. Doors open at 8 p.m., band starts at 9 p.m.

Tickets $15 advance, $18 at the door, and may be purchased at www.townhalltheater.org, 382-9222, or at the THT Box Office Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.

Jan

1

SUNDAY

First day bird hike in Ferrisburgh.

Sunday, Jan. 1, 9 a.m., Button Bay State Park. Otter Creek Audubon Society invites you to combine the tradition of New Year’s Day birding trips with a First Day Hike to walk the trails in search of overwintering birds.

Jan

4

WEDNESDAY

Labor historian talk in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Jan. 4, 7 p.m., Ilsley Public Library. Labor historian Annelise Orleck will recount the struggle for welfare rights by Las Vegas women in the 1970s in a talk titled “What if Poor Women Ran the World?” Orleck is a professor of history at Dartmouth College.

Jan

5

THURSDAY

Senior meal in Bristol. Thursday, Jan. 5, noon, First Baptist Church of Bristol.

The menu is baked ham, mashed potatoes, carrots, homemade rolls and banana cream pie.

Suggested donation $4. Come early and talk with friends and make new ones. Call 453-5276 a week ahead to be on the list.

Jan

7

SATURDAY

Green Mountain Club hike in Charlotte.

Saturday, Jan. 7, Mt. Philo State Park. Hike or snowshoe this easy, 2-3 mile hike, which is dog-friendly. Contact Mike Greenwood at mike802vt@ comcast.net or 349-5653. Info: www.gmcbreadloaf.org.

Young adventurers club in Waltham. Saturday, Jan. 7, 9 a.m., Buck Mountain. Come to the animal winter picnic at Buck Mountain. While the pace is geared toward younger adventurers (ages 4-8), everyone is welcome. Call or email YAC leader Lauren Bierman for meeting location and details at 349-7498 or laurenbiermanrn@gmail.com. Info: www.gmcbreadloaf.org.

DJ skate night in Middlebury. Saturday, Jan. 7, 8-10 p.m., Memorial Sports Center. DJ skate night presented by friends of Middlebury hockey. All ages and abilities welcome. $5 adult; $3 student. Snack bar will be open and rental skates available. Info: www. memorialsportscenter.org.

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 9A

S•A•L•E Store Closing

Last Day, Dec. 23

50-75% OFF* STOREWIDE *some exclusions apply

yarn - beads - supplies - specialty gifts 383 Exchange Street • Middlebury, VT • www.cacklinhens.com • 388.2221

LIVEMUSIC Swing Noire in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 15, 8-10 p.m., 51 Main.

Maple Jam in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music.

Justin Perdue Quartet in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 17, 8-10 p.m., 51 Main.

Annual Messiah sing along

SINGERS AND PLAYERS will gather Sunday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. at Middlebury Congregational Church for a joyful reading and rendering of selections from Handel’s Messiah. Come enjoy this Middlebury holiday tradition! Info: 989-7355.

ONGOINGEVENTS SPORTS Co-ed volleyball in Middlebury. Pick-up games Monday, 7-9 p.m., Middlebury Municipal Gym. Jack Brown, 388-2502; Bruce at Middlebury Recreation Department, 388-8103.

Family tennis court time in Middlebury. Sundays, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Middlebury Indoor Tennis. Family play drop-in offers families a chance to play together.

Equipment is provided. Open to all levels of play.

Info: Erin Morrison, emorrison@acafvt.org.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS ACT (Addison Central Teens). Drop-in hours during the school years: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 3-6 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday, 3-7 p.m. 94 Main St. (Middlebury Town Office building), below rec. gym.

Teen drop-in space for kids. Hang out with friends, play pool, watch movies, and eat great food. Baking: every Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. Info: 388-3910 or www.addisonteens.com.

Addison County Amateur Radio Association. Sunday, 8 p.m. On the air on club repeater 147.36/147.96 MHz, 100 Hz access tone. Nonmembers and visitors welcome.

Addison County Emergency Planning Committee.

Last Wednesday, 5 p.m. State Police Barracks.

Public invited.

Addison County Republican Party. Third Friday, 7 p.m., Ilsley Library, Middlebury. 897-2744.

American Legion Auxiliary Post 27. Fourth Monday, 7 p.m. American Legion, Wilson Road, Middlebury.

Addison County Council Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Fourth Tuesday, noon-1:30 p.m.

Addison County Courthouse in Middlebury. 388-9180.

Brandon Lions Club. First and third Tuesday, 7 p.m., Brandon Senior Center.

Brandon Senior Citizen Center. 1591 Forest Dale Road. 247-3121.

Bristol Historical Society. Third Thursday, 7 p.m., Howden Hall, 19 West St., Bristol.

Champlain Valley Fiddlers’ Club. Middlebury VFW, 530 Exchange Street. Third Sunday (except Easter), noon to 5 p.m. Donation $3. Refreshments available.

Looking for fiddlers young and old. Open to public.

Info: 342-0079.

The Hub Teen Center and Skatepark. 110 Airport Drive, Bristol. Open mike night, first Thursday of the month, 5:30-7:30 p.m., free for all ages; reserve a spot at thehub@gmavt.net. Info: 453-3678 or www. bristolskatepark.com.

LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer). Youth support group meets Monday nights, 4-6 p.m., Turningpoint Center, Marble Works, Middlebury. Info: 388-4249.

Middlebury Garden Club. Second Tuesday. Location varies. Pat Morrow, 462-3741.

NEAT (Northeast Addison Television) Channel 16.

Fourth Monday, 5-7 p.m. NEAT studio in Bristol.

Bruce Duncan, bduncan@madriver.com.

Neshobe Sportsman Club. Second Monday, 6 p.m. potluck; 7 p.m. meeting. 97 Frog Hollow Road in Brandon.

Otter Creek Poets. Open poetry workshop held Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Ilsley Library in Middlebury.

Poets of all ages are invited to share their poetry for feedback, encouragement and optional weekly assignments. Bring a poem or two to share (plus 20 copies). Led by David Weinstock. Free.

Orwell Historical Society. Fourth Tuesday, 7:30 p.m.

Orwell Free Library.

PACT (People of Addison County Together). Third Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Vermont state office

building on Exchange St. in Middlebury, Health Department conference room. 989-8141.

Samaritan’s Cupboard. Assembly of God Christian Center, 1759 Route 7, Vergennes. Third Thursday through October.

Vergennes Lions Club. First and third Wednesday, 6:45 p.m., American Legion. Club address: PO Box 94, Vergennes, VT 05491. Info: President Tim Cowan, 877-2382.

Vergennes Rotary Club. Tuesday mornings, 7:15-8:30 a.m., Champlain Valley Christian School, 2 Church St. Breakfast served at 7:15 a.m.

GOVERNMENT & POLITICS Addison Peace Coalition. Saturday, 10:30-11 a.m.

Triangle Park in Middlebury.

Citizens for Constitutional Government in Bridport.

Thursday, 7-9 p.m. Bridport Community School.

Learn about the U.S. and Vermont constitutions and how to defend our rights.

Five-Town Area Vigil for Peace. Friday, 5-5:30 p.m.

Bristol green. All welcome to speak out for world peace.

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Mobile Service Van. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Every Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m.

Addison County Courthouse, in Middlebury. The van offers written exams, customer service and road tests. 828-2000.

BINGO American Legion Hall, Middlebury. Wednesday.

Doors open 5:30 p.m. with early birds. Jackpot $3,000. Food available. Benefits veterans, scholarships and community programs. 388-9311.

Brandon Senior Center, Brandon. First and third Mondays. 6 p.m. Refreshments sold. 247-3121.

Brandon American Legion. Tuesday, warm-ups 6:15 p.m., regular games 7 p.m. Food available, complimentary hot tea and coffee. Info: 247-5709.

VFW Post 7823, Middlebury. Monday. Doors open 5 p.m., quickies 6:15 p.m., regular bingo 7 p.m.

388-9468.

FUNDRAISING SALES Bixby Memorial Library Book Sale, Otter Creek Room, 258 Main St., Vergennes. Monday-Friday, 2-4:30 p.m. (Thursday, 2-6:45 p.m.); and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Proceeds support library programs and materials.

Brandon Free Public Library Used Book Sale.

Wednesdays, 4-7 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The 2016 season runs May 4 through mid-October.

Ilsley Public Library Book Sale. First Saturday, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Vermont Room. Ongoing sale in The Last Word during library hours. Info: 388-4095.

St. Peter’s Closet in Vergennes. Behind St. Peter’s.

Open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Two Brothers Tavern’s Charitable Mondays. First Monday. 10 percent of entire day’s proceeds go to designated charity.

DANCE, MUSIC, ARTS & EDUCATION Bridge at Ilsley in Middlebury. Thursdays, 5:30-8 p.m., Ilsley Library. Single players welcome. Info: 462-3373.

Bristol folk session in Bristol. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., Hatch 31, 31 Main St. Open jam. Bring your voices, instruments, songs and tunes. Irish/Celtic, Maritime, Appalachian, Quebecois, Roots/Blues, World Music, Dead, Dylan. Info: www.vtceltic.com/bristol-folksession.html.

Celtic jam session in East Middlebury. Third

Wednesday, 8-10 p.m., Waybury Inn. Open session to play traditional Scottish and Irish tunes on acoustic instruments. All abilities welcome.

Celtic jam session in Middlebury. First Wednesday, 8-10 p.m., 51 Main. Come swap Scottish, Irish and Canadian fiddle tunes. Open to all instruments and players familiar with Celtic sessions and jam etiquette.

Info: mfloyd@middlebury.edu or 203-823-8669.

Chess and bridge clinic in Middlebury. Mondays, 3:30-5:30, Ilsley Library. Casual play and gentle coaching in bridge and chess.

Chess club in Brandon. Saturdays, 12:30 p.m., Brandon Library. All ages and abilities welcome.

Chinese conversation group in Middlebury.

Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. Informal discussion in Mandarin Chinese led by native speaker Yinglei Zhang. Info: 388-4095.

Classical string ensemble in Middlebury. Third Friday, EastView at Middlebury. Amateur ensemble looking for violinists. Info: 388-7351.

College Session for Seniors in Middlebury. Elderly Services, 112 Exchange St. Classes for people over 60 in basic computer, opera, politics, history, international law and more. Call 388-3983 or e-mail college@elderlyservices.org.

Computer lab open hours in Bristol. MondayThursday, 3:30-7 p.m., Mount Abraham Union High School library. Free access to the library’s electronic resources, courtesy of e-Vermont funding.

Craft workshop in Forest Dale. Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m., Living Waters Assembly of God Church, Route 53. Free workshop for knitting, crocheting, or other crafts. Coffee served. Info: 247-3637.

Creative writing workshop in Vergennes. Thursday, 6-8 p.m., Bixby Library. Free. Librarian Muir Haman guides participants through short-form writing and creative exercises. All experience levels welcome.

Info: 877-2211 or muir.haman@bixbylibrary.org.

Dancing in Middlebury. Sundays, 6:30-7:30 p.m., EastView at Middlebury. Come dance to swing, blues and waltz music. Wear clean, dry, soft-soled shoes.

Info: 475-2349 or jscondon@mac.com.

Dramatic writing workshop in Vergennes. Monday, 6-8 p.m., Bixby Library. Free workshop led by screenwriter Jay Dubberly in which participants help each other work on long-form writing projects. Info: 877-2211 or muir.haman@bixbylibrary.org.

Drum Collective. Group drumming. Every Monday, 10-11 a.m., 111 Maple St. in the Marble Works at Huard Studio. Led by local percussionist Will Smith.

Open to all. Info: www.drumcollective.org.

Drum gathering in Bristol. Last Friday of the Month, 6-8 p.m., Recycled Reading of Vermont. Info: 453-5982 or www.recycledreadingofvt.com.

Duplicate bridge at EastView in Middlebury.

Tuesdays, 6:20-9 p.m. Info: 462-3373.

Free Drawing Workshop in Vergennes. Every Saturday: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. KB Café at Kennedy Brothers, 11 Main St. Fun and supportive. All adults welcome. Materials provided. No experience necessary. Information about this week’s lesson: http:// WeeklyArtLesson.com.

FULL LISTINGS

ONLINE WWW.ADDISONINDEPENDENT.COM

Just a Friendly Reminder!

Nino’s Middlebury will be closed for a long holiday and restaurant revamp. This will be our last weekend until early January.

We want to thank everyone for their continued support and understanding, and cannot wait to debut some new menu items this coming January!

Have no fear, all of your favorite pizzas will still be here, we are simply adding on! Stay tuned for the date of our grand re-opening!

The Slice Happy holidays everyone, Guy the Nienow family

21 MACINTYRE LANE • MIDDLEBURY

Reader Comments

Here’s what one reader has to say about us!

A reader from Fairbanks, AK writes: “A fine example of what a newspaper should be like.”

Quotes are taken from reader comments submitted with subscription renewals.

ARO

PAGE 10A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

D N U

TOWN

Lions gather toys & glasses VERGENNES — There are numerous barrels around the Bristol and Vergennes area placed by the Vergennes Lions Club to help support the Marine Corps League’s Toys for Kids program.

Every new, unwrapped toy will be going to children in this area. Money donated will be used to purchase gift cards for needy teenagers.

At the last Vergennes Lions Club meeting, Betty Kipp, representing the Vergennes Community Forum, presented a check to President Jim McClay to help toward the gift cards.

The drawing for the 50/50 Cash for Christmas was held with Harry Curth of Ferrisburgh receiving a check for $2,130. The other half of the 50/50 will be used to fund Vergennes Lions projects in the Vergennes/Bristol area.

The Vergennes Lions are selling $10 raffle tickets to help fund the scholarship program for graduating seniors at Vergennes Union High School. Folks wanting to purchase tickets may contact any Lions Club member, or by calling President Jim McClay at 545-8181.

Also, folks wanting to get an early

jump on buying tickets for the Annual Vehicle Raffle may contact any Lions Club member, or call Vice President Debbie Brace at 475-2434. This prize vehicle is a 2001 Chrysler Sebring convertible, and the ticket will be drawn on Memorial Day. Second prize will be $500 in cash, and third prize is an Adirondack Double Chair with bench values at $250.

Funds raised from all of these raffles help fund eyeglasses and hearing aids for needy folks, accessible ramps to folks homes, food for the needy and donations to many area organizations. At the last meeting, the club was thanked for helping provide glasses for an individual and food for the John Graham Shelter.

Lion Debbie Brace expressed thanks to all the members who helped collect food for Thanksgiving in cooperation with the Vergennes Rotary Club.

People donating food at the Bristol and Vergennes Shaw’s Markets thanked the Lions and Rotarians for what they were doing to help others enjoy the BETTY KIPP, REPRESENTING the Vergennes Community Forum, presents Vergennes Lions President Jim McClay with a check for Toys for Kids.

Thanksgiving holiday.

DISTRICT CONCERT CHOIR students pictured left to right: Jack Waterman, Theo Spackman-Well, Ken Barkdoll, Xaviar Wyncoop, Hadley Evans-Nash, Hannah Roque, Lauren Turner, Bethany Palmer, Kess Moulton, Ali Seaton, Tor Bright, Lucy Ursitti and Mary Lynch.

DISTRICT CONCERT BAND students pictured left to right: Oziah Wales - Alto Sax*, Jakub Kraus - Tenor Saxophone*, Abigail Benz - Clarinet, Josie Abbott - Baritone Saxophone, Micah Rubin - Percussion, Greta Hardy-Mittell - Clarinet*, Caleb Benz - Alto Saxophone, Addy Parsons - Piccolo*, Bethany Palmer - Bass Clarinet, Julian Schmitt - Trumpet, Romy Munkres - Flute*, Kate Wallace - Oboe*, Garrett Ev Pyfrom - Trombone, Sarah Grace-Kutter - Flute, Archie Milligan - Trombone*, Meigan Clark - Flute, Simon Kiel - Trombone and Ken Barkdoll - French Horn*.

Not pictured: Joshua Girard - Trumpet. *Denotes highest score on that instrument.

scrapbook BIRTHS

• Sarah (Dow) & Jared Provoncha, Middlebury, Dec. 7, a daughter, Paislee Elizabeth Provoncha.

• Jenny & Kyle Bradley, Ferrisburgh, Dec. 8, a son, Logan Arthur Bradley.

DUSTIN DAVIO

MUHS wrestler will compete Down Under MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury Union High School wrestler Dustin Davio has been selected to compete in the 29th annual Down Under Sports Tournament in Australia next summer. Davio is junior who wrestles at 138 pounds for the Tigers.

Last winter as a sophomore, Davio finished sixth in the Vermont State Meet wrestling at 132 pounds. His coach, Ethan Raymond, says Davio has even greater drive and maturity this season.

Davio said he is honored to be an ambassador for Middlebury and Vermont, and also, as a member of the East Conference Wrestling Team, an ambassador for the United States.

Over the next six months Davio will be raising funds to help pay for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He is seeking donations from members of the community and businesses. So far he says he will be soliciting donations from wrestling enthusiasts at the Hubie Wagner Invitational wrestling tournament, which will be held at MUHS on Dec. 28 and 29.

He will also reach out at other home sporting events this winter.

Celebrate solstice at the Waterworks

MUHS students land seats in district choir, concert band and jazz ensemble MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury Union High School music students prepared for the Green Mountain Music District V auditions for Concert Choir, Concert Band and

Jazz Ensemble this fall under the direction of Liz LeBeau and Anne Severy. Many students secured a seat in the ensembles, with several receiving the highest score on their

instrument. The Band Festival will be held Feb. 3, and the Choir and Jazz Festivals will be held March 3, both at the College of St. Joseph in Rutland.

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DISTRICT JAZZ ENSEMBLE students pictured left to right: Josie Abbott - Baritone Saxophone*, Jakub Kraus - Tenor Saxophone*, Tobias Broucke - Guitar*, Addy Parsons - Trombone, Micah Rubin - Drumset, Oziah Wales - Alto Saxophone, Garrett Ev Pyfrom - Trombone, Archie Milligan - Trombone*, Simon Kiel - Bass*, Julian Schmitt - Trumpet, and Caleb Benz - Alto Saxophone. Not pictured: Joshua Girard - Trumpet. *Denotes highest score on that instrument.

BRISTOL — Come one, come all to the annual Winter Solstice gathering at the Waterworks property in Bristol. This long-running celebration, co-sponsored

by The Watershed Center and Vermont Family Forests, will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 21 at the Norton Brook Reservoir, a half-mile walk from the parking area at 4783 Plank Road.

Follow a trail of luminaries to the reservoir and join the festivities — bonfire, potluck, music by Rick Cebellos and friends, community singing and a bit of solstice pageantry — bringing in the light and offering gratitude to the forest for its boundless gifts.

Bring a potluck dish to share, a musical instrument if you like, a flashlight or headlamp, plenty of warm layers and boots. Be prepared for ice and/or snow on the trail to the reservoir. Please leave pets at home.

Produce • Meat Bread • Maple Syrup • Crafts & More!

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Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 11A

Area Holiday Religious Services Directory ADDISON COUNTY — Several Addison County-area churches have set their schedules for special Christmas events and services.

ADDISON The Addison Community Baptist Church will have a Christmas Eve candlelight service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m.

BRANDON St. Mary’s Church will hold a Christmas Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., and a Christmas Day Mass on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m. A New Year’s Eve Mass will be held Saturday, Dec. 31, at 4 p.m., and a New Year’s Day Mass on Sunday, Jan. 1, at 10 a.m.

St. Thomas & Grace Episcopal Church will hold a Christmas Eve service Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. Children should arrive at 6:30 p.m. to prepare for their part in the service. Located on Route 7 in Brandon village.

BRIDPORT The Hope Community Fellowship will have a Christmas Day service at the Bridport Community Hall on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10:30 a.m.

St. Bernadette’s Church in Bridport will hold a New Year’s Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 31, at 7:30 p.m.

BRISTOL The First Baptist Church of Bristol will hold their family Christmas Eve candle lighting service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. There will be readings, carols and special music.

St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church will hold a Christmas Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 5:15 p.m., and a Christmas Day Mass on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 9 a.m.

The Bristol Christian Fellowship will have a regular worship service on Christmas morning, Sunday, Dec. 25, at 9 a.m.

CHARLOTTE The Charlotte Congregational Church will hold “Carols of Many Lands: A Sing-along” on Friday, Dec. 16, from 6-7:30 p.m.; and a Christmas pageant on Sunday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. On Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, there will be a family service at 4:30 p.m. and a traditional candlelight service at 7 p.m. On Sunday, Dec. 25, there will be a Christmas Celebration with carols and story at 10 a.m.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Roman Catholic Church will hold Christmas Eve Masses on Saturday, Dec. 24, in several locations: at 4 p.m. at the Old Lantern, at 7 p.m. at St. Jude in Hinesburg, and at 10 p.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Christmas Day Mass will be held on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m. at St. Jude in Hinesburg. New Year’s Eve Mass will be held on Saturday, Dec. 31, at 4 p.m. at St. Jude in Hinesburg. And a New Year’s Day Mass will be held on Sunday, Jan. 1, at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. at OLMC, and at 9:30 a.m. at St. Jude in Hinesburg.

CORNWALL The First Congregational Church of Cornwall will hold a Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. The Rev. Dr. Mary Kay Schueneman will preside.

The Christmas Morning Worship will be a shared worship with Weybridge Community Church at the Weybridge Church on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m.

EAST MIDDLEBURY The East Middlebury United Methodist Church will hold a Christmas Eve service presenting “The Gift” at 5 p.m. All are welcome.

FERRISBURGH The Ferrisburgh Center United Methodist Church will hold a Christmas Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 5 p.m. There will be a Christmas morning worship on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 9 a.m.

LEICESTER St. Agnes Church will hold a Christmas Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 5:15 p.m.

LINCOLN The United Church of Lincoln will hold three candlelight Christmas Eve services on Saturday, Dec. 24: a 6:30 p.m. service with children’s pageant, an 8:30 p.m. traditional service, and an 11:30 p.m. service with carols, readings and Communion.

There will be a simple Christmas celebration service on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 9:45 a.m.

MIDDLEBURY St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Middlebury will hold Christmas Eve Masses on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 and 9 p.m. A Christmas Day Mass will be held on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 9 a.m. There will be a New

THE EAST MIDDLEBURY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Year’s Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 31, at 5:15 p.m., and a New Year’s Day Masses on Sunday, Jan. 1, at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

The Congregational Church of Middlebury will hold Christmas Eve services on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Both will include the lighting of candles.

There will be a Christmas worship service on Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m.

Memorial Baptist Church in Middlebury will hold a service of lessons and carols on Sunday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. On Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m., there will be a candle-lighting service with carol singing, special music and visual presentation. There will be a brief, “come-as-you-are” morning service on Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will hold a Gentle Christmas service on Saturday, Dec. 17, at noon, for those for whom the Christmas season may be difficult. There will be Christmas Eve pageant and Communion service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m.; and a Christmas Eve service with choral music at 10 p.m. The Christmas Day service will take place Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m.

The Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society will hold a Christmas Eve service on Saturday, Dec. 24, ending with candle

lighting and the singing of “Silent Night”; at 5 p.m. there will be a Christmas Celebration for all ages, including a no-rehearsal Christmas pageant, with carols and youth choir; and at 7:30 p.m. a service titled “Unto You This Night a Child is Born.” Rev. Barnaby Feder and the CVUUS choir will lead our traditional service of carols, lessons and reflection, with special musical guests Bruce Douglas and Molly Pratt.

The Middlebury United Methodist Church is hosting a Longest Night Blue Christmas service on Wednesday, Dec. 21 in the church sanctuary at 5 p.m. This service is held on the winter solstice to serve as a light in the darkness for those who are struggling with loss, loneliness and grief in the holiday season. They will also be hosting the sixth annual Christmas Benefit Concert for Charter House on Wednesday, Dec. 21 in the church sanctuary at 7 p.m. Local artists from Addison County will present vocal arrangements of their favorite holiday music. There will also be a hymn sing. A free will offering will be taken to support the warming shelter at Charter House. A Christmas candlelight service of lessons and carols on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. All are

welcome. Universally accessible.

On Sunday, Dec. 25, Christmas morning at 10:45 a.m. All are welcome. Universally accessible.

Hearing assistance available. Street and lot parking.

NORTH FERRISBURGH The North Ferrisburgh United Methodist Church will offer two Christmas Eve services on Saturday, Dec. 24: at 5 p.m., a 45-minute family-friendly service that features carols and activities geared toward young children; and at 7:30 p.m. an hour-long traditional service with carols, the choir, sermon and candle lighting.

On Sunday, Dec. 25, there will be a Christmas Day service at 10 a.m. featuring 45 minutes of Christmas carols and fun.

PANTON The Panton Community Baptist Church will hold a Christmas Eve candlelight service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 6 p.m., and a Christmas Day service on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 10:30 a.m.

SHOREHAM The Shoreham Congregational Church will celebrate a traditional Christmas Eve Service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 5 p.m. Rev. Christina Del Piero will lead the service of Scripture readings, carols, an inspiring message, and the traditional candlelight ceremony.

Special music will be provided by the choir, with featured singers Abby Adams and Jim Ellis, and distinguished guest organist Charles Callahan.

St. Genevieve’s Church in Shoreham will hold a Christmas Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m.

SOUTH STARKSBORO The Jerusalem Gathering will hold a Christmas Eve service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. in the Jerusalem Schoolhouse behind the Jerusalem Store, just off Route 17.

Carols, candles, and the Eucharist will be celebrated in the Episcopal tradition. Families with children are always welcome.

The annual Starksboro Village Meeting House Christmas Candlelight service will be held Thursday, Dec. 22, at 7:30 p.m. in the Meeting House located in the center of Starksboro Village on VT

Route 116.

STARKSBORO The Baptist Church (2806 Route 116) will hold a celebration of Christmas service at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 25. The First Baptist Church of Starksboro will hold a First Day service at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 1, at its sister church, the Community Church, located at 4910 Main Road, Huntington Center.

VERGENNES St. Paul’s Episcopal Church will hold its Christmas Eve Holy Eucharist, Rite II, on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m. with a choir and children’s pageant. On Sunday, Dec. 25, at 8 a.m., there will be a Holy Eucharist.

St. Peter’s Church will hold a Christmas Eve Mass on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m., and a Christmas Day Mass on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 9 a.m.

Vergennes United Methodist Church will hold a Candlelight Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. There will be no service on Sunday, Dec. 25.

Victory Baptist Church will hold a Christmas Eve candlelight service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 6:30 p.m.

WEST ADDISON The West Addison United Methodist Church will hold a Candlelight Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. This service takes the place of the regular morning worship that day. There will be no service on Sunday, Dec. 25.

WEYBRIDGE Weybridge Congregational Church will hold a Christmas Eve carol and candlelight service Saturday, Dec. 24, at 5 p.m. The church will continue to celebrate Christmas in worship on Sunday, Dec. 25, with a service of carols, reading and reflections at 10 a.m.

WHITING The Whiting Community Church will hold a Christmas Eve Candlelight service on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. There will be a Christmas Day service on Sunday, Dec. 25, at 11 a.m.

To submit holiday services to this listing, email calendar@ addisonindependent.com.

PAGE 12A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Loan

Rails (Continued from Page 1A) and installing a drainage system.

Preliminary work is expected to begin early next year and last into 2020.

Some downtown merchants and property owners have voiced concerns about the scope of work and how it will affect commerce and the adjacent Otter Creek, as well as public health and safety. Some of the project critics have hired an attorney, James Dumont, to question VTrans’ plans and advocate for a smaller-scale replacement of the two deteriorating bridges.

Dumont on Dec. 2 filed an Open Meeting Law-related complaint against the selectboard, claiming the panel on Oct. 25 had inappropriately gone into executive session to discuss the two proposed agreements with VTrans related to the bridges project. Among other things, Dumont alleged the board failed to specify the topic of the secret meeting and why discussing it in private would place the community at a disadvantage.

And failing to reveal the subject, he argued, precluded his clients from providing input prior to the board’s vote to ratify the agreements.

After receiving legal advice, selectboard members argued they acted properly by going into executive session on Oct. 25. But the board on Tuesday agreed to revisit ratification of the agreements “because reasonable minds could differ and because the selectboard would prefer to err on the side of openness,” according to a Dec. 7 letter from the town to Dumont.

On Tuesday, Dumont Brian Carpenter reiterated his concerns announced VTrans about the proposed officials said they agreements with VTrans would make a friendly and urged the board to change in the agreement wait until Transportation governing the amount Secretary Chris Cole has of time the town has responded to a series to review bridge plans of project concerns before signing off on that Dumont sent the them. The agreement has secretary on Oct. 31 on specified a three-week behalf of his clients. deadline for the town Cole has already to review plans; that VTrans postponed some projecthas now been changed related tree cutting that “doesn’t have to a “reasonable time was supposed to have an obligation period,” according to begun this month.

Carpenter. to take into “I submit to you that account our “I think it comes the Open Meeting Law concerns. It’s down to that level of issue gives you time trust,” Carpenter said to make a considered a state project. after Tuesday’s meeting. decision to wait,” But they’ve “(VTrans) doesn’t have Dumont told the board. shown, to an obligation to take into “You don’t have to the contrary, account our concerns. decide anything right that they are It’s a state project. But now. All you have to they’ve shown, to the interested in do is decide right now contrary, that they are that you’re not going to bending over interested in bending backwards to ratify that agreement.” over backwards to do Selectwoman Donna do the right the right thing.”

Donahue agreed with thing.”

Selectwoman Heather Dumont.

— selectboard Seeley said, “I guess I “I think it’s a mistake Chairman was confortable with to make decisions now,” Brian Carpenter (the agreement) the first Donahue said. “I want time; I’m ready to ratify as much information as it right now.” possible before I sign an agreement.”

Selectman Victor Nuovo But a majority of the board said maintained that signing the they believed the agreements had agreements on Tuesday was in the been properly vetted and discussed town’s best interest.

— with a new VTrans project team “We’ve been talking about this for that they said had earned their trust. a very long time,” he said of the need Middlebury selectboard Chairman to replace the two spans.

Nuovo added he believed it was essential not only to replace the spans soon, but to do it in concert with the rail bed and drainage improvements.

And he reiterated his belief that the town will be able to leverage other downtown improvements — such as the undergrounding of utilities — through the project as currently proposed.

Selectman Nick Artim agreed.

“A basic, fundamental direction has been established,” he said of the current construction plans. “I think the community is on board.”

Ultimately, the board voted 6-1, with Donahue opposed, to re-ratify the Oct. 25 modified grant contract and the finance/maintenance agreement with VTrans.

ENGINEERING STUDY The board also announced that the town and Middlebury College will commission a third-party engineering study of VTrans’ plans for replacing the two downtown bridges. Carpenter said the town had originally allocated $5,000 for its share of the review, with an equal commitment from the college. But officials received a more recent estimate it will take $50,000 to do a thorough job. The town’s share will remain $5,000 and college President Laurie L. Patton has agreed to raise the remaining $45,000 to cover the bill, Carpenter said.

“To ensure that we have a quality, third-party review, (Patton) is committed to fundraising to fill the gap,” Carpenter said.

He added VTrans is on board with

a third-party review of its plans.

“Wayne Symonds (manager of VTrans’ Structures Program) is committed to doing the right thing, if something has been overlooked,” Carpenter said.

Dumont on Wednesday questioned the wisdom of the selectboard’s decisions to ratify the project contracts with VTrans.

That action, he believes, now ends the community’s right to seek legal relief from any aspect of the project it might deem unpalatable.

“All the town is left with now is the right to submit comments, but no right to do anything if the state decides for any reason … not to agree with the town’s comments,” Dumont stated in an email to the Independent. “As the trustees of the town’s interests, the selectboard has departed from its responsibilities in also terminating that set of rights.”

Dumont added the board’s decision on Tuesday means that “(George) Dorsey, (Bruce) Hiland, the Atlantic States Legal Foundation and other citizens have the right to go to court to challenge any decision by VTrans. The town does not.”

“Middlebury’s selectboard has handed over to the secretary of transportation the duty that, under the town’s charter, is the principal duty of the selectboard — the duty to safeguard the interests of the residents of the town,” he concluded.

Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.

(Continued from Page 1A) will need to pay back the money over a five-year term at a compounded rate of return of 2.5 percent.

Founded in 2007 by Jeff Weaber, Aqua ViTea brews, markets and distributes kombucha, a probiotic tea beverage hailed for its vitamins, enzymes, organic acid and other healthy ingredients. The growing company moved from Salisbury to Bristol in 2012 and soon ran out of space. Almost a year ago it moved into the former Vermont Hard Cider Co. headquarters at 153 Pond Lane in Middlebury. Aqua ViTea, which employs around 24, is currently only renting a portion of the 62,000-square-foot Pond Lane facility, owned by J.P. Carrara & Sons.

Weaber and Aqua ViTea CFO Jordan Benjamin are now advancing an even bigger vision for the “If we can company.

They hope make this to ultimately group of buy 153 Pond services and Lane, along equipment with some available sophisticated b r e w i n g to other and bottling beverage e q u i p m e n t , companies to not only (that) would advance the help some Aqua ViTea of the brand, but to also benefit smaller n a s c e n t companies b e v e r a g e that can’t c o m p a n i e s afford a looking to major capital break into the industry in an expenditure.”

— Jamie affordable way.

Gaucher “ We ’ r e looking to bring other beverage producers into that space,” Weaber told the selectboard on Tuesday.

To that end, Aqua ViTea has a shopping list that includes: • A new bottling line and labeling system.

• A “spinning cone column.”

Company officials described this equipment as a unique distillation system used for aroma recovery, flavor extraction, alcohol management in alcoholic beverages, and essential oil extraction. It would be the only machine of its kind in Vermont, according to Jamie Gaucher, director of Middlebury’s Office of Business Development & Innovation. Gaucher is helping Aqua ViTea officials with their expansion plans.

Aqua ViTea’s plans also include applying for three distinct licenses for the production of alcohol under one roof, to broaden the scope of beverage tenants that the Pond Lane facility could accommodate.

Gaucher said Aqua ViTea’s proposal to provide incubator space for like-minded companies would further burnish Middlebury’s reputation as a beverage hub.

The town is already home to such companies as Vermont Hard Cider, Otter Creek Brewing, the App Gap Distillery, the Drop-In Brewery and Stonecutter Spirits.

“If we can make this group of services and equipment available to other beverage companies, not only would that help some of the smaller companies that can’t afford a major capital expenditure around this type of equipment, it would give this place some gravity. I think it would be attractive,” Gaucher said.

Selectboard members were unanimous in their support of extending Aqua ViTea the $125,000 loan. The Middlebury Business Development Fund board will soon gather to consider the action.

“As a concept, it’s a terrific one,” Selectwoman Donna Donahue said.

“This is absolutely brilliant,” Selectman Nick Artim added. “This is one of those opportunities that can differentiate us from the rest.”

Selectboard members Heather Seeley, Victor Nuovo and Laura Asermily were also supportive, though with some words of caution.

Asermily said she hoped a large loan award from what is a limited revolving loan fund wouldn’t set a precedent for future large requests from other businesses. Seeley and Nuovo were concerned about completely depleting the fund and thus having nothing left for other loan applicants.

“I don’t want another company to come up and say, ‘I could’ve used those funds,’” Seeley said.

But given Aqua ViTea’s was the only pending revolving loan application — and the only one to have been filed in several months — the board endorsed it. Once replenished by Aqua ViTea, the revolving loan fund will again be available to other applicants.

“This is a great opportunity, and I don’t want to see it pass,” Nuovo said.

Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 13A

Middlebury College (Continued from Page 1A) into the local economy. by claiming carbon offsets (in a Since 2007 the college has reduced process called sequestration) from its Number 6 fuel oil consumption 2,100 acres of Green by 91 percent, from 2 Mountain forestland million gallons annually “Solutions preserved in perpetuity close to a decade ago around its Bread Loaf to climate to around 185,000 in campus in Ripton. change fiscal year 2016. (Part While hundreds of are going of the last fiscal year’s colleges nationwide reduction in Number 6 have pledged to to happen fuel oil resulted from become carbon increasingly bringing fracked natural neutral, Middlebury is at the local gas into the mix, a point perhaps only the fifth of controversy with and state nationwide to achieve many climate activists). that goal, joining level because In addition to the Maine’s Colby College it appears shift to biomass, the and College of the that federal college is a partner in Atlantic, the University three solar arrays (two of Minnesota at Morris policy is in Middlebury and one and Green Mountain probably in Pittsford), which College in Poultney. not going to together generate 1,150 “It’s not just reaching advance in kilowatts. The most a goal, it’s how we recent of these is a 500 got there that’s been the next four kW array in Pittsford. so rewarding and years.”

Together the solar exhilarating,” said — Director of installations supply Dean of Environmental Sustainability around 8 percent of the Affairs Nan JenksMIDDLEBURY COLLEGE REACHED its goal of cutting its net carbon dioxide emissions to zero through a combination of switching to renewable Integration college’s electricity.

Jay. “It was faculty, Jack Byrne Jenks-Jay and Byrne power, renovating buildings for greater energy efficiency and sequestering carbon through 2,100 preserved acres at its Bread Loaf campus in students, staff and admitted that the path to Ripton, shown here. College officials hope that this move to claim carbon credits on protected land will encourage other nonprofit landowners to preserve more land in order to claim credits. administrators working fossil fuel reduction has Photo by Brett Simison together throughout the whole had some interesting side roads, as process.” dozens of renewable energy ideas renewable methane gas from cow enhanced biodiversity and greater which holds the conservation recently assessed 2016 as likely PATH TO NEUTRALITY were pitched to the college. One manure and other organic waste on opportunities for education and easement on the land. It has to be the hottest year on record, Carbon dioxide is one of the such side road was the college’s a the Goodrich farm in Salisbury recreation — carbon sequestration engaged the California- and Utah- following close on the heels of principal causes of climate change, attempt to grow willow as its own and pipe it to the college. claims a new sort of dollar tag for based Bluesource LLC to carry out record-breaking temperatures in or global warming. Like other renewable fuel source — a threeLast spring, regulators authorized preserved acreage. the official steps toward carbon 2015 and 2014. “greenhouse gases,” when the year project that didn’t pan out as the construction and operation “There’s a lot of interest in how sequestration.

Said Byrne, “It’s important to volume of the gas increases in hoped. of that pipeline in a project we accomplished this and how “What we can do is open a do the kinds of things that we’re Earth’s atmosphere, it allows solar “When we put the spearheaded by a this might be a nuanced way for window to a new way of thinking doing because right now a lot of energy to reach the surface but traps (willow) chips in there company called Lincoln institutions of higher education to about responsible land stewardship the solutions to climate change it so excess heat can’t escape into it brought the (biomass “What we can Renewable Natural think about protecting their land, and responsibility to our climate are going to happen increasingly space. gasification) plant to a do is open a Gas. LincolnRNG which generally they don’t because situation,” said Jenks-Jay. “That’s at the local and state level because In May 2007, when college screeching halt,” said window to contracted to sell 75 it’s an asset that they don’t want to why we think that there’ll be an it appears that federal policy is trustees adopted the carbon Jenks-Jay. percent of the gas to lose value in,” said Jenks-Jay. ‘Aha!’ moment with this.” probably not going to advance in a new way neutrality resolution, the college “Like feeding it bad Middlebury College Carbon sequestration “could be Both emphasized that changes at the next four years. So the more of thinking emitted 28,554 metric tons of food,” Byrne added. and the rest to Vermont another incentive for conserving the federal level could make this examples of how to make it work carbon dioxide in that fiscal year.

Side by side with about Gas Systems. land,” Byrne added. a critical time for local and state out at the local level the better.”

By fiscal year 2016, it had reduced the shift to renewable responsible But that project has Middlebury had already organizations to assert even greater Reporter Gaen Murphree emissions to 13,539 metric tons, fuels has been a series yet to come to fruition. preserved the 2,100 acres in 2014 leadership on climate issues. is reached at gaenm@ land cutting its carbon footprint by more of projects undertaken And when the college through the Vermont Land Trust, Indeed, climate scientists addisonindependent.com. than a half. in partnership with stewardship saw in early 2016 One of the first and most important Efficiency Vermont to and that it was not going steps was replacing Number 6 make campus buildings to happen this year, responsibility fuel oil for heating and electricity more energy efficient. campus leaders decided generation with locally sourced Over the past 14 years to our climate to instead reach carbon wood chips. The wood chips are this has encompassed 87 situation. neutrality by claiming considered carbon neutral because projects and cost $1.5 That’s why carbon credit on the they are harvested from surrounding million. college’s preserved we think forests and represent less than 1 All in all, these Bread Loaf acres. percent of those forests’ net growth changes have brought that there’ll CARBON annually, said Middlebury Director huge savings. The shift be an ‘Aha!’ SEQUESTRATION Keeping Dollars in the Local Economy of Sustainability Integration Jack to wood chips has saved moment with Trees naturally Byrne. the college between $1 Compared to chain stores, locally owned businesses recycle a much capture and store To turn those chips into fuel, the million and $2 million this.” carbon; this process is larger share of their revenue back into the local economy, enriching — Dean of called sequestration. college constructed a $12 million a year. Making the the whole community.

Environmental biomass gasification system in buildings themselves Jenks-Jay and Affairs Nan Byrne both feel that 2008. The biomass plant generates more energy efficient — Institute For Local Self-Reliance Jenks-Jay carbon sequestration around 75 percent of the college’s has generated savings heat (sending steam through more of around $636,000 offers nonprofit than 19,000 feet of steam pipe on annually. landholders such as colleges, the main campus) and roughly 20 Be a dear.

Yet they still left the college universities, hospitals or religious percent of its electricity. around 13,539 metric tons of CO2 organizations (which often own The chips are purchased through shy of being carbon neutral. large tracts of land) a new kind of Bristol’s Lathrop Forest Products For a number of years, the hope incentive to preserve their acreage. and the A. Johnson Company, and had been that the outstanding carbon Alongside the values already at around 20,000 tons burned a year balance would be reduced through inherent in land preservation — inject around $1 million annually a Salisbury project to generate such as habitat defragmentation,

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PAGE 14A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Bristol police educate children

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MACEY PALMER, 6, of Salisbury shared some of her Christmas wishers with Santa Claus during a visit with the jolly old elf in Middlebury on Dec. 3.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Addison (Continued from Page 7A) year,” Galgano said. “Hopefully by Low Density Rural Agricultural the end of this summer.” district, as recommended by the Planners had one set of zoning Addison County Regional Planning regulations written in 2013, but that Commission. proposal was rejected Density bonuses, by the selectboard, when made final by “We’ve gone which wanted to see new zoning, will through so far smaller lots with allow landowners to making some smaller lot-frontage create one or more requirements to allow comparisons smaller lots if they for more affordable agree to preserve and seeing housing, development open land on the where some and tax revenue. larger parcel that is changes have to Both boards being subdivided. eventually agreed on the The tactic thus allows be made. And density bonus approach affordable lots and then we’ll go as a way to meet preserves farmland through getting those goals while also and scenery. them done. But preserving farmland ROAD AHEAD and scenery, goals that P l a n n i n g I would think (it many residents valued commission Chairman will get done) in a planning survey.

Frank Galgano said within this next Part of the process writing new zoning for planners now is year.” will be a complex task — Planning to review the 2013 that will incorporate commission regulations and see new state mandates as Chairman what can be re-used. well as the new plan “Some of those Frank Galgano provisions. Planners changes we made have started work, but we’re going to have to what he said will be long-term project go over them again and see if they’re can now begin in earnest. still relevant. And if not we can “We’ve gone through so far make some changes,” Galgano said. making some comparisons and Other plan provisions call for new seeing where some changes have to density bonus lots to be surveyed, be made. And then we’ll go through and wherever possible to be served getting them done. But I would think by a single curb cut. (it will get done) within this next The new town plan also calls

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for establishing the town’s first conservation commission; adds pages of maps devoted to facilities, resources, soil septic suitability, population density and more; details survey results on a number of topics; creates a new “Flood Overlay District” within the Conservation District; and makes specific recommendations for how to obtain the goals included in each chapter.

Planners must incorporate into new zoning much of that, plus new material the state requires, particularly on lakefront laws.

“It’s a constantly changing scene, much of it brought about by what’s happening in Montpelier,” Galgano said.

He referenced the years that planners, basically volunteers, have spent on this round of planning and zoning.

“It’s a much longer time than I ever thought it would be,” Galgano said.

And, yes, it is thankless work.

“We only ever seem to hear from the ones who are unhappy,” Galgano said. “There’s absolutely nothing we can do from a regulation point of view or any kind of an authority that wouldn’t be injuring somebody in somebody’s mind. So to do everything to the least possible impact is what we try to do.”

Andy Kirkaldy may be reached at andyk@addisonindependent.com.

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• On Nov. 30 at 11:45 p.m. found multiple pieces of plywood in the middle of North Street that had blown into the road from a construction site.

The plywood was removed from the road.

• On Dec. 1 at 12:45 a.m. an officer took a mandatory National Crime Information Center training exam on-line.

• On Dec. 1 noted that a traffic light near the town offices was damaged by high winds the night before and notified the road foreman and town office staff.

• On Dec. 1 went to Mount

Bristol

Police Log

Abraham Union High School where two male students were reportedly disrupting classes. Both had been brought under control by staff prior to police arrival. One of the students was escorted out of the building where a parent picked him up. The second student worked with staff on plan to address behavior.

• On Dec. 1 were informed of an assault investigation by Vermont Department of Children and Families.

An interview with the involved parties was scheduled for a later date.

• On Dec. 2 received a report of children walking on North Street with an adult who were not dressed properly for the weather. Police checked the area but no one fitting the description was found.

• On Dec. 2 assist the Starksboro Fire Department at crash scene in Starksboro with two occupants entrapped until the Vermont State Police arrived and took control of the situation.

• On Dec. 3 at 7 a.m. responded to a report of an assault at a Taylor Avenue residence. The complainant provided a sworn statement indicating he had been living in a guest bedroom of the home of Jim Edwin Peabody Jr., 54, for several weeks and during a verbal altercation that morning Peabody grabbed him by the arm and throat.

Police took Peabody into custody, cited him for first-degree aggravated domestic assault and lodged him at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility after a Judge bail set at $500.

• On Dec. 3 confiscated a marijuana pipe with a hit of marijuana in it from an individual at a West Street business.

• On Dec. 5 assisted Vermont State Police by responding to a rollover crash on Plank Road, where the operator was reportedly trapped in the vehicle. The Bristol officer extricated the uninjured driver and obtained information for the responding trooper.

• On Dec. 5 were notified of a suspicious incident that had occurred downtown on Dec. 3, when a female was approached by an unknown male who requested her contact information in a manner that made her feel uncomfortable. The police are attempting to identify the man.

• On Dec. 6 assisted a state police trooper with an active investigation into the furnishing of alcohol to minors. Video of the adult purchasing alcohol for minors was obtained and provided to the trooper, and the state

police cited offender.

• On Dec. 6 at approximately 1750 an officer completed a Vehicle Identification Number verification for a Garfield Street resident without incident.

• On Dec. 6 conducted checks of district businesses, no problems found.

• On Dec. 7 assisted in an investigation as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. As Bristol police are not the primary investigating agency in the active investigation no additional information can be released at this time.

• On Dec. 7 the chief attended the 2016 Impaired Driving Summit in South Burlington. The focus was on cannabis and public safety as it relates to impaired driving.

• On Dec. 7 assisted a trooper in Lincoln at a possible burglary in progress. The Bristol officer was canceled in route by the trooper who advised the residence was secure.

• On Dec. 8 an officer attended the monthly multi-disciplinary meeting at the Addison County Unit for Special Investigations.

• On Dec. 8 the chief attended a meeting with Mount Abe staff, service providers and family of a truant student to develop a plan to improve attendance. The student participated and agreed to the plan.

• On Dec. 8 at 1937 responded to Lawrence Lane for a report that a resident could not park in their driveway. The officer found there were no illegally parked vehicles.

• On Dec. 9 at 7:49 a.m. received a report of a possible road rage incident.

A Bristol woman said she encountered a man jaywalking on Main Street and believed the man then chased her in a vehicle northbound out of the village to the junction of Routes 116 and 17.

Neither the man nor his vehicle was identified.

• On Dec. 9 attended a meeting with Mount Abe staff along with service providers to assist a family with a truancy issue. A plan was discussed to improve attendance.

• On Dec. 9 at 3:47 p.m. an officer saw two great danes wandering around cars on Main Street. The dogs’ owner was identified and the officer secured the dogs in the owner’s vehicle.

• On Dec. 10 stopped a vehicle on Monkton Road for an equipment violation and ended up issuing the driver a ticket for possession of marijuana and a warning for the equipment violation.

• On Dec. 11 patrolled the Main Street business district on foot without incident.

• On Dec. 11 conducted winter parking ban patrol. One vehicle was ticketed and towed when it was found parked on Main Street in violation of the winter ban.

The Bristol Police Department is teaming up with the Middlebury Police Department for their annual holiday toy drive. Anyone wishing to donate toys can deliver them to either department over the next couple of weeks. The toys will be delivered by uniformed officers on Christmas Day to children and families throughout Addison County.

The police departments invite local residents to join them in delivering a positive Christmas experience to families and children in need.

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BRISTOL — On eight days between Nov. 28 and Dec. 11 a Bristol police officer worked out of the space at Bristol Elementary School interacting with students and staff office, halls and cafeteria without incident.

Twice during that period the officer met specifically with a kindergarten class. On Nov. 29 the youngest students learned about the tools carried by officers and toured the Bristol police cruiser.

On Dec. 2 the officer took part in “show and tell,” talking to the class about what police officers do, showing and discussing what was on the uniform and what they meant, and looking at the police car.

While at the school on Dec. 8 Chief Kevin Gibbs received donation for Camp Ta-Kum-Ta in connection with the Deer Camp Beards for Cancer promotion from a resident who stopped in (see story on page 7A).

Also during that period, Bristol police conducted town contracted and directed patrols outside of the police district on eight occasions, including on Burpee, Plank, Cold Spring, Hewitt and Monkton roads.

On Wednesday, Chief Gibbs alerted the public that two counterfeit $20 bills have been recovered from a Bristol business. One was passed Tuesday and the other about a week earlier. At this time no suspect is known. The bills passed a pen test by the store but closer examination by Merchants Bank determined several security features — include the security strip and watermark — were missing. The U.S. Secret Service has been advised and investigation initiated.

In other recent activity, Bristol police: • On Nov. 28 went to a South Street apartment where a tenant was reporting the landlord removing the tenant’s property. Police determined that several items belonging to the tenant were removed unlawfully and told the landlord to stop the removal, contact the State Attorney’s Office for clarification on the law and resolve the issue with the tenant or risk criminal prosecution.

• On Nov. 28 helped Vermont State Police look for the perpetrator of an assault in the Plank Road area.

• On Nov. 28 recovered a dog found wandering on Route 116 and returned it to the owner after fees were paid.

• On Nov. 28 at 1 a.m. issued parking warnings to several vehicles on West Street that were parked blocking the sidewalk.

• On Nov. 30 received a report that someone had kicked a resident’s dog while the owner was walking the animal.

• On Nov. 30 stopped a vehicle on Prince Lane for a defective equipment.

During the stop the officer arrested Eric Patton, 31, of Huntington and cited him for possession of narcotics and arrested Justin Barner, 41, of Huntington on a warrant for sale of heroin. Barner was lodged for lack of bail. Patton was cited and released.

• On Nov. 30 Chief Kevin Gibbs conducted training with administrative staff on new duties to free up sworn officers for patrol duties.

• On Nov. 30 responded to a two-car crash with no injuries at Champlain Farms.

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(Continued from Page 2A) One of the more interesting line items in the proposed budget is the set-aside of $20,150 in fiscal year 2018 toward a major, multi-year flood resiliency project designed to

reduce the risk of future flooding of the Middlebury River in East Middlebury.

A Middlebury River Task Force a few years ago developed an “East Middlebury Flood Resiliency

acpcc@sover.net • addisoncountypcc.org

Plan,” following study of a 1.7-mile segment of the river stretching from the Sand Hill Bridge to the Route 7 Bridge. That plans calls for, among other things, restoring roughly 5 acres of floodplain between Lower Plains Road and Grist Mill Road; repairing the existing floodwall downstream of the Grist Mill Bridge; armoring 1,400 feet of the protective berm off Ossie Road; and extending the floodwall downstream of the Grist Mill Bridge by approximately 110 feet.

Amy Sheldon of Landslide Natural Resource Planning is serving as the town’s consultant for the project, which could cost around $1.8 million to fully implement and therefore require substantial federal funding. Shashok said the project could shrink in scope before being put to voters — probably next fall.

Shashok is also a member of the Middlebury selectboard, which will review — and possibly amend — the proposed capital improvement plan before Town Meeting Day voters get the final say on it next March.

She believes the plan as presented is a responsible one that helps the town catch up on some projects that probably should have received earlier attention.

“For the past five years, we’ve been saying, ‘We’ve got to trim this,’ and ‘We have to cut back on certain items,’” Shashok said. “That’s starting to catch up to us.”

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 15A

Model trains run into the Sheldon Museum station Annual exhibit draws children and adults MIDDLEBUY — For the 25th year, the Henry Sheldon Museum of Middlebury hosts its annual holiday model train exhibit, which delights visitors of all ages.

Volunteer engineers will operate the three levels of trains beginning Tuesday, Nov. 29. To confirm hours that the trains are operative, call the museum at 802-388-2117 or visit the Museum’s website at www. henrysheldonmuseum.org.

Each year during the holidays, the Henry Sheldon Museum hosts a six-week run of the model trains.

Children visit the display with their parents and grandparents, and many adults absent of children visit to recall the seasonal wonder of model trains and train travel. The founder of the Museum, Henry Sheldon (18211907), was himself a train enthusiast and anxiously awaited train travel to commence in Western Vermont. As reported in his biography:

“Not until a week before Christmas of 1849 did the first locomotive puff over the Mount Holly pass, on through Rutland and into Middlebury to the cacophony of the hooting of the train whistle, to the ringing of half a dozen clamorous church bells, and to the cheering of throngs of residents at the station. Henry Sheldon’s hurrahs merged with those of the general public. With the least possible delay, he sold his store and before the end of January 1850 was riding the rails as Route Agent for the U.S. Postal Department, between Burlington and Boston.”

His railroad experience was short lived, as his biography continues: “Since the velocity of the train exceeded by a narrow margin the pace of a well-teamed stagecoach, and stops were required at every hamlet en route, the run between Burlington and Boston occupied the best part of a day and evening,

AN ENGINE ROLLS by in the Sheldon Museum’s holiday model train exhibit.

leaving little time for the mail agents’ recuperation between trips. He was granted every third week off, but the schedule proved so disorienting to Henry Sheldon that he even discontinued keeping his diary. A few months of railroading was long enough to exhaust his enthusiasm for that field.”

The popularity of passenger and freight trains soon led to a model train bonanza. In recognition of its appeal and Henry Sheldon’s early train employment, a group of Sheldon Museum supporters established an unofficial Model Train Club and installed an exhibit at the Museum in 1992. Early club members included Peter White, Dana Myrick, Bob Andrews, Warren Frost, Bob Rand, Al Stiles, Chip Stokes and “T” Tall.

They designed, fabricated and built the scenic platforms on which the tracks were laid, purchased or were given model train cars. Each year new model train enthusiasts of all ages joined in the effort as volunteer exhibit installers or engineers, from

eight years of age to eighty-five.

The train display, traditionally on view from Thanksgiving until to mid-January welcomes up to 1,000 visitors each season. The display has grown and the positive responses by enthusiastic visitors continue. The display now stands three levels high, with tracks running Lionel O gauge trains, Lionel 027 gauge trains and an upper track running HO trains.

The backdrop of the green mountains painted by local artist Gayl Braisted adds atmosphere.

A new 2016 feature to the layout is “Gabe the Lamplighter.” Youngsters will be delighted as they watch Gabe climb a tower and turn on the floodlights! In 2015 a Lionel milk car delivering milk cans during a stop at the replica of the Middlebury Station was added to the trains.

The station was handcrafted by Michael Rainville, proprietor of Maple Landmark in Middlebury, which produces wooden toys sold throughout the world.

Other neighborhood architectural

ANTIQUE LIONEL ENGINE and tender on display at the Sheldon Museum’s holiday model train exhibit.

gems, bridges, tunnels and geographical destinations were fashioned by local artists, including a mirrored skating pond where 19th century miniature metal skaters frolic, a replica of Battell Hill where animals from many nations graze, and a transplanted Ferris Wheel and merry-go-round representing the Addison County Fair.

Historic photos of locomotives, passenger and freight cars that whizzed through the Vermont country side adorn the walls of the model train exhibit room. The engineers adjust the overhead lighting in the exhibit room as day passes to night and the whistle on the engines sound as they approach crossings and pass through Vermont villages.

The 25th year of the display continues to captivate audiences.

Come and enjoy the ride during the Sheldon’s Model Train exhibit.

The Henry Sheldon Museum is located at One Park Street in downtown Middlebury across from the Ilsley Library. Holiday Museum hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec.18, from 12-4 p.m. The trains will run through Jan. 14, 2017.

Volunteer engineers will run the trains Tuesday to Friday from 1 to 4 p.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 18, from 1-3 p.m.

Refer to the Sheldon’s website for an up-to-date schedule or call the Sheldon ahead of time to confirm that the engineer is present. The Sheldon will be closed Dec. 24, 25, 26, and will reopen on Tuesday, Dec. 27. Regular admission to the Museum is $5 adults; $3 youth (618); $4.50 seniors; $12 family. For more information, call the Henry Sheldon Museum, 388-2117 or visit www.henrysheldonmuseum.org.

SALISBURY COMMUNITY SCHOOL kindergarteners Avalon Rheaume and Noah Sheldrick react with glee as they watch toy trains travel around the annual model train exhibit at the Henry Sheldon Museum in Middlebury Tuesday morning. The train exhibit has been attracting crowds for 25 years.

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PAGE 16A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

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TANDEM’S JESS MESSER and Bristol CORE’s Ian Albinson are the team behind Bristol’s new midwinter celebration of fire and light, Lumen. The Lumen celebration on Dec. 23 will involve live fire-juggling performances, a candlelight procession and a fire-pit marshmallow roast.

Because it’s not just a need to do to make sure (Continued from Page 1A) that it’s safe and that executive director of Bristol CORE, first-time event but one “When you everyone knows what’s an organization whose goal is that involves live flame, decide to do happening and that you to maintain economic vitality in Messer and Albinson a fire event have permissions,” said town. The two teamed up to host are continuing to work in the middle Albinson. this downtown celebration. They out the details and make of your Albinson and hope Dec. 23 will be a sweet spot adjustments as needed.

For example Messer’s downtown, Messer said that when between other Bristol solstice and holiday-related events (including original idea had been to there are quite they began planning the event their first the annual solstice gathering at the combine the primitive a few things conversation was with Bristol Watershed on Dec. 21) and thrill of live flame with that you need Bristol Fire Chief Brett the flurry of activity that for many the equally primitive to do to make satisfaction of an LaRose. families sets off on Christmas Eve. sure that it’s “He was very Lumen will begin on the Bristol outdoor pig roast.

“There’s a reason why safe and that enthusiastic, very green at 5 p.m. with performances supportive,” said by the fire-breathing, fire-juggling since the dawn of man everyone Albinson. “He’ll be Cirque de Fuego (Fire Circus), people have gathered knows what’s from Jericho (see a story on this around fire and the happening and there with a truck ... some volunteers.” amazing group in the Arts + Leisure smell of cooking meat. that you have andAlbinson also section of today’s Independent). Nothing brings people explained that the Hot chocolate, marshmallows and together more than those permissions.”

— Ian Albinson “lit” procession down s’mores kits and other snacks will things,” Messer said.

However, Main Street won’t also be for sale. the roasting involve live flame but Beyond food and fun, “There’s a pig in the alleyway something more along the lines of participants will have a reason why outside Lumen idea festive lanterns powered by LEDs. chance to write down had to give way to “That was the one stipulation on slips of paper “things since the tamer carnivorous from the Bristol selectboard. They they want to get rid dawn of man satisfactions.

The had a concern about that (actual of from 2016,” giving people have change to serving roast lit candles being used in the voice to bits of darkness gathered meats — just not roasted procession), so we’re adapting,” they want to cast off as around fire with live flame on site — said. thoughts turn toward the and the smell was made in the interests Albinson As plans for Lumen continue to new year. of neighborly harmony. progress, both organizers remain After the Cirque de of cooking Downtown businesses excited about the new event.

Fuego performance, meat. Nothing will be open, so there “It’s really just a way for us to the entire crowd will brings people will also be a chance engage with our community and process down Main together more for a bit of last-minute just let people know that we’re all Street carrying lights. than those holiday shopping. in it together and celebrate that At the other end of Both Albinson and togetherness around a flame,” Main, in the alley next things.”

— Jess Messer Messer emphasized Messer said. to Vermont Tree Goods that the Bristol Fire Lumen will begin at 5 p.m., and between Lumen Department will be on Friday, Dec. 23, on the Bristol and National Bank of green. To learn more about the Middlebury will be more fire pits, hand throughout the event.

“When you decide to do a fire event, see the related Arts + Leisure where participants can burn those scraps of paper, drink hot cider or event and you want to have it in the story about Cirque de Fuego.

Gaen Murphree is reached at mulled wine, roast chestnuts and middle of your downtown, there are quite a few things that you gaenm@addisonindependent.com. toast a marshmallow.

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Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 17A

Hunters (Continued from Page 1A) Bell, Charlotte, 80 female; Gary and better food sources, according to Briggs, Lincoln, 130 doe; Roger both a Fish & Wildlife press release Reginaud, New Haven, 158-7; and Sara Acker, Lincoln, male fawn. and local experts.

Also, Patrick Hendy, Starksboro, Mild weather encouraged many hunters in rifle season, during which 108 doe; and Jody Brown, Bristol, bucks were also in rut (showing 110 doe; Robert Jimmo, Lincoln, interest in breeding) for almost the 137 doe; David Brown, Lincoln, entire season, according to local 100 doe; Dusty Grace, Middlebury, 80 doe; Andrew Cousino, Lincoln, experts.

Even after the record rifle season, 112 doe; Mark Cousino, Lincoln, 65 hunters in the December bow and male; Stanley Sargent, Lincoln, 135 muzzleloader seasons were still doe; and Matt Brown, Lincoln, 153seeing deer, according to Greg 8.

December Boglioli, manager of Vermont Field Mark Cousino, Lincoln, 145 Sports in Middlebury, adding that snow in early December also helped doe; Matt Brown, Lincoln, 125many hunters find and stalk their 5; Thomas Murphy, Ripton, 1355; Brendan Moore, kills.

Starksboro, 150-10; “Guys that were Tyler Desautels, hunting the mountains “Guys that Lincoln, 115 doe; were seeing deer were hunting Cody Corse, Bristol, because they had the mountains 109 doe; and Brian tracks because of the were seeing Baillargeon, Lincoln, snow,” Boglioli said.

157-9.

Weigh station deer because WEST ADDISON operators reported they had tracks GENERAL STORE evidence of a healthy because of the October Bow heard, and weights Russell Bishop, were generally slightly snow.”

— Greg Boglioli, Shoreham, 161-6 higher.

According manager of Vermont buck; Wayne Stearns to Independent Field Sports Jr., Ferrisburgh, 150calculations, the 4 buck; James Towle, average weight of a buck killed in this past rifle season Panton, 110 doe; Eric Campbell, came in at just under 146 pounds, Ferrisburgh, 108 doe; James about two pounds heavier than the Anderson, Addison, 125-4 buck; 2015 average. That weight is at the Jamison Bannister, Addison, 68 high end compared to averages in female; Ira White, Ferrisburgh, 80 recent years and is matched only by male; Michael Holler, Addison, 95 2012, when the average also stood doe; Ryan Paquin, Addison, 110 doe; at 146 pounds before two harsh Gary Grant Jr., Bridport, 130 doe; Brent Perkins, New Haven, 170winters.

During rifle season, a dozen bucks 3; Adam Paquette, Addison, 120-4 tipped the scales at 200 pounds buck; Christien Paquin, Panton, 88 or more. Only one deer taken in male; James Towle, Addison, 80 October or December topped 200 male.

December pounds, a 222-pound, four-pointer Logan Lecompte, Panton, 75 doe; that Ron Parent brought down with an arrow in October in Orwell and Kyle Charron, Ferrisburgh, 98 doe; had weighed at Buxton’s Store in Richard Thurber, Panton, 90 male; Mitchell Gallison, Addison, 100 doe; that town.

Two other bucks came close at 196 Horace Richards, West Haven, 100 pounds and eight points apiece — doe; Richard Shimel, Bridport, 145one that Dylan Lanpher took during 4; Willem Ringer, Swanton, 105 doe; archery season in Shoreham and had Steve Fillion, West Haven, 80 male. weighed at Buxton’s, and one that GREEN MOUNTAIN TRAILS Dana Smith shot in Huntington in END (BRISTOL) October Bow December and took to Starksboro’s Shane McGrath, Middlebury, Jerusalem Corners Country Store.

Two bucks shot in the November 173-8; Sean Beloin, Monkton, 132 rifle season had 10- or 11-point doe and 66 female; Donald Pepe, antler racks, and two more double- Whiting, 102 doe and 100 doe; digit racks were added to that total Wilbert Clark, Lincoln, 122 doe in December: Paul Maynard shot and 111 doe; Thaddeus Sorrell, a 167-pound, 10-point trophy Charlotte, 126 doe; Raymond specimen in Orwell and took it to Germain, Middlebury, 117 doe; Buxton’s, and Brendan Moore took Jack Bodington, Monkton, 108 doe; a 150-pound, 10-pointer to Lincoln and Conrad Marsano, Monkton, 58 General Store after shoot it in female.

Starksboro.

Also, William Geehan, Lincoln, The honor of bringing down the 129 doe; David Patterson, Lincoln, single largest deer weighed in the 90 doe; Cory Jennings, Hinesburg, county this year belongs to Paul 108 doe; Gabriel Meader, Monkton, Gaboriault: He shot a 235-pound, 128 doe; Craig Jennings, Bristol, eight-point buck in Bridport and put 113-5 buck; John Chamberlain, it on the scales at Buxton’s Store.

Starksboro, 105 doe; John This year’s successful bow and Chamberlain Jr., Lincoln, 95 doe; muzzleloader hunters and their deer and Daniel Briggs, Bristol, 94 doe. were (listed by town of kill, weight December if does or fawns, and by pounds and Richard Malzac, New Haven, points if bucks): 109 doe; Nick Lossman, Lincoln, LINCOLN GENERAL STORE female; Jeff Palmer, Starksboro, 74 October Bow female; Todd Laflam, Monkton, 67 Michael Hemond, Lincoln, 78 female; Pernell Bedell, Monkton, female; Aaron Thomas, Lincoln, 114 doe; Caleb Tucker, Ira, 122-6; 137-4; Andy Jimmo, Lincoln, 100 Daniel Cram, Middlebury, 135 doe; doe; Chase Atkins, Lincoln, 140-6 Mark Deering, Benson, 93 doe; and buck; Peter Brown, Lincoln, 138-8; Brian Ladeau, Weybridge, 88-4.

Dave Cavoretto, Lincoln, 125 doe; VERMONT FIELD SPORTS Jeff Mayo, Lincoln, 108 doe; Scott October Bow

James Reynolds, Salisbury, 1636; William Keefe, Bridport, 163-6; John Curler, Middlebury, 143-5; Fred Waite, Warren, 129 doe; Chris Ringey, Cornwall, 127 doe; Ronald Devoid, Middlebury, 125-8; Steven Rheaume, Cornwall, 124 doe; Wendy Butler, New Haven, 121-3; and Matthew Lawton, Bridport, 121 doe.

Also, Morris Lackey, Shoreham, 120 doe; Donald Keeler, Middlebury, 120-4; Robert James, Weybridge, 116-6; Terrence Ferson, Leicester, 115 doe; Michael Desjadon, Middlebury, 113 doe; Gary Perkins, Weybridge, 110 doe; David Wemette, Middlebury, 110 doe; Charles Torrey, Salisbury, 107-3; and Michael Loven, Pittsford, 103 doe.

Also, Anthony Andrews, Warren, 97 doe; Robert Cameron, Salisbury, 95 doe; Paul Blair, Ripton, 93 doe; Frank Raymond, New Haven, 92 doe; Daniel Stein, Ferrisburgh, 91 doe; Cory Newton, Middlebury, 91 doe; Carlos Faulkner, Brandon, 89 doe; Levi Doria, Ripton, 87 male; and Bobby Bennett, Middlebury, 55 male.

December Blake Emilo-Webb, Ripton, 157-8; Martin Landon, Weybridge, 151-0; Lyle Webb, Ripton, 145-8; Gregory Raymond, 135-5; David Wemette, Middlebury, 127-4; Raymond Gale, Salisbury, 126-4; Michael Palmer, Salisbury, 120-8; Robert Cameron, Middlebury, 116 doe; Justin Malzac, Middlebury, 115 doe; and David Ambrose, Sudbury, 112 doe.

Also, Robert Clark, Hubbardton, 112 doe; Devin Dwire, Salisbury, 111-7; Harold Doria, Ripton, 1054; Barry Whitney, Cornwall, 104 doe and 110 doe; Darcy Trudeau, Brandon, 102 doe; Philip Cyr, Sudbury, 95 doe; Dylan Disorda, Salisbury, 87 doe; Caleb Whitney, Benson, 76 doe; and Terry Aldrich, Cornwall, 75 doe.

Also, Morris Lackey, Shoreham, 71 doe; Stacey Stearns, 65 female; Brian Ladeau, Weybridge, 130 doe; Shawn Frost, Poultney, 60 male; Daniel Zentara, Granville, 135-3; Levi Doria, Ripton, 130-6; Pam Bessette, Middlebury, 125 doe; and Jason Lucia, Bristol, 120 doe.

VILLAGE GREEN MARKET (NEW HAVEN) October Bow Jeremy Lattrell, Lincoln, 80 doe; Tyler Cousino, New Haven, 117 doe; and Andre Rheaume, New Haven, (See Successful, Page 18A)

Lines on lines

LINES OF CHOPPED corn stalks lead to a distant tree line in a snow-covered field in Bristol Tuesday afternoon.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

PAGE 18A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Successful (Continued from Page 17A) 135 doe.

December Zachary Laurie, Bristol, 143 doe and 124 doe; Bruce Cheever, Middlebury, 60 female; Eric Daley, New Haven, 80 doe; Conrad Aube, Bristol, 92 doe; Jon Boise, New Haven, 125 doe; Leon Demers, New haven, 135-8 and 137 doe; John Mlcuch, New Haven, 100 doe; Robert Therrien, Charlotte, 122 buck; Dustin Tierney, Orwell, 77 male; Caleb Tucker, Bristol, 121 doe; and Rusty Conant, Hubbardton, 133 doe.

Also, Charles Morris, New Haven, 105 doe; Henry Tierney, Monkton, 135 doe; Robert Twenge, Bristol, 110-1; Andrea Wernhoff, Addison, 80 doe; Langdon Smith, New Haven, 144 doe; Cale Pelland, Hubbardton, 124 doe; Alexandria Brace, Ferrisburgh, 79 doe; Billy Hurlburt, Westford, 111 doe; Chris Bingham, Cornwall, 146 doe; and Thomas Kenyon, Monkton, 133-3.

RACK ’N REEL (NEW HAVEN) October Bow* Stephen Davis, New Haven, 1736; Jason Twenge, Bristol, 169-8; Patrick Mcglaflin, Charlotte, 1675; Elwood Martin, Pawlet, 159-4; Eric Preston, Panton, 163-7; Bruce Perlee, New Haven, 159-8; Andrew Piper, Leicester, 154-8; Patrick Needham, New Haven, 145-3; Louis Phelps, Monkton, 142 doe; and Gary Hallock, Monkton, 139-4.

Also, William Brown, Ferrisburgh, 137 doe; Craig Ringer, Weybridge, 135-7; Kim Gooden, Ferrisburgh, 133-8; Sterling Pelsue, Monkton, 130-3; Eric Campbell,

Ferrisburgh, 130-4; Brian doe; Scott Stearns, Ferrisburgh, 91Baillargeon, Lincoln, 129-5; Arne 4; Brian Morin, New Haven, 88 doe; McKinley, Weybridge, 128 doe; Richard Greene, Charlotte, 88 doe; Jason Miller, Morristown, 128 doe; Franklin Loven, Monkton, 87 doe; Phillip Williams, Middlebury, 125 Logan Boyer, Addison, 65 female; doe; and Aaron Josey, New Haven, and Mark Chapman, Bridport, 62 124 doe. male.

Also, Corey Haight, *December: Rack Charlotte, 122-5; Kai The honor of ’N Reel declined to Sweeten, Salisbury, bringing down provide names of 121-4; Steve Shores, successful hunters Ferrisburgh, 120- the single largest during December 5; Matt Leonard, deer weighed in deer seasons, but Starksboro, 118 the county this provided numbers of doe; Kevin Kayhart, kills (35) and details year belongs to Waltham, 117 doe; on deer.

Kyle Charron, Paul Gaboriault: JERUSALEM Ferrisburgh, 117 He shot a CORNERS doe; Daniel Flynn, 235-pound, eight- COUNTRY STORE Addison, 116 doe; (STARKSBORO) Gary English, point buck in October Bow Addison, 115-4; Bridport and put Earl Pecor, Bristol, Christopher Melendy, it on the scales at 102 doe; James Bridport, 122 doe; Buxton’s Store.

Sweeney, Lincoln, and Bruce Cram, 130-4; Miles Russell, Ripton, 115 doe.

Hinesburg, 117 doe; Also, Kevin Masse, New Edward Lafayette, Lincoln, 136-8; Haven, 112 doe; Jeremy Jennings, Troy Francis, Warren, 71 fawn; Eric Middlebury, 111 doe; Tyler Flynn, LaRose, Starksboro, 100 doe; Joseph Charlotte, 111 doe; Dyllinger Calevro, Richmond, 98 doe; and Higbee, Monkton, 111 doe; Seth Joshua Kruger, Huntington, 68 fawn.

Gebo, Ferrisburgh, 109 doe; Olivia Also, Patrick Fitzgerald, Jones, Salisbury, 109 doe; Kevin Huntington, 120 doe; Gabriel Carter, Bridport, 108 doe; Maxwell Cousino, Lincoln, 118-3; Erin Flynn, Shoreham, 107 doe; Adam Dalley, New Haven, 140 doe; Eric Loven, Salisbury, 106 doe; and Gracie, Middlebury, 104-3; Brian Matthew Sheehan, Ferrisburgh, 106 Heffernan, New Haven, 107 doe; doe.

Mathew Norris, New Haven, 124 Also, Robert Jennings, Bridport, doe; and Patrick Reen, Lincoln, 97 104-3; Mathew Badger, Ferrisburgh, doe.

104 doe; Paul Deering, Bridport, December 103 doe; Daniel Bushey, Chittenden, Josh Roscoe, Starksboro, 123 97 doe; Lucius Cousino, Bristol, 92 doe; John Gillette, Waitsfield, 118 doe; Andre Deering, Bridport, 91 doe; Roland Haskins, Huntington,

114-4; Eric Jennings, Bristol, 65 fawn, and Monkton, 130-7; Adam Thompson, Fayston, 137-9; Erin Dailey, Huntingon, 100 doe; Ryan Whitcomb, Bristol, 100-4; John Nolet, Huntington, 100 doe; Tucker Porter, Starksboro, 84 doe; Burton Shangraw, Huntington, 62 fawn; and Philip Lenz, Starksboro, 113 doe.

Dana Smith, Huntington, 196-8; David Cunningham, Monkton, 58 fawn; David Whitcomb, Bristol, 130-7; Mark Siminitus, Starksboro, 87 doe; Henry Emmons, Starksboro, 156-6; Andrew Bissonette, Bristol, 180-5; Albert Dickerson, Huntington, 117 doe; Paul Morse, Starksboro, 155-8 and 80 doe; Brian Stokes, Hinesburg, 65 fawn; Larry Haskins, Huntington, 104-0; Michael Price, Huntington, 81-7; Rollin Jimmo, Lincoln, 115 doe; and Benjamin Turner, Starksboro, 117-4.

C&S HUNTING SUPPLIES (EAST MIDDLEBURY) October Bow Callahan Butler, Bristol, 105 doe; Aaron Trombley, Shoreham, 150-6; Jerry Butler, Bristol, 136-8; Gabe Cameron. Salisbury, 107 doe; Brian Boise, Cornwall, 117 doe; Shawn Frost, Middlebury, 116 doe; Billy Wedge, Leicester, 117-4; David Yandow, New Haven, 143 doe; Lyle Webb, Ripton, 139 doe; and James Warner, Middlebury, 70 female.

December Dean Rheaume, Middlebury, 1166; Maurice Rheaume, Middlebury, 119 doe; Gary Warner, Middlebury, 80 doe; Henry Ramsey, New Haven, 74 doe; Michael Forbes, Middlebury, 126 doe; Robert Larose, Ripton, 138-4; Dalton Rheaume, Orwell,

130 doe; plus two; Timothy Whitney Jr., Cornwall, 154 doe; Timothy Whitney Sr., Cornwall, 101 doe.

BUXTON’S STORE October Bow Bradley Disorda, Orwell, 112 doe; Duane Kehoe, Shoreham, 125 doe; Dylan Lanpher, Shoreham, 196-8; David Fuller, Cornwall, 109 doe; William Maloy, Sudbury, 117 doe; James Buzzell Jr., Chittenden, 124 doe; Richard Russell, Orwell, 137-4; and Raymond Savoie, Tinmouth, 98 doe.

Also, Bruce Potter, Sudbury, 101 doe; Dennis Patterson, Shoreham, 112 doe; Michael Dame, West Haven, 66 female; Gene Goodspeed, Orwell, 109-6 and 58 fawn; Sarah Washburn, Orwell, 147-5; Taylor Patterson, Shoreham, 118 doe; Wyatt Forbes, Whiting, 125 doe; and Devin Dwire, Cornwall, 131 doe.

Also, Matt Spardella, West Haven, 130-5; Alan Christian, Orwell, 142 doe; Russell Bishop Jr., Shoreham, 117 doe; John Gosselin, Shoreham, 117-3; Gregory Raymond, Cornwall, 133 doe; Chris Hanson, Orwell, 1826; Todd Huntley, Benson, 154-8; and Robert Ryan, Fair Haven, 110-5.

Also, Dennis Parsons, Shoreham, 120 doe and 110 doe; Steve Myrick, Bridport, 131-6; Ron Parent, Orwell, 222-4; Justin Quenneville, Whiting, 111 doe; Jacob Abbott, Orwell, 131 doe; Jeff Booska, Orwell, 113 doe; Delbert Frazier Jr., West Haven, 125 doe; and Robert Ketcham, Shoreham, 142-6.

Also, David Hanson, Shoreham, 108 doe; Jon Audet, Orwell, 157-7; Bob Almeida, Orwell, 177-4; Tom Blackbird, West Haven, 140 doe;

Greg Raymond, Cornwall, 114-6; William Telgen Jr., Shoreham, 127 doe; Steven Brileya, Shoreham, 138 doe; Stephen Manning, Shoreham, 68 female; Jim Ryan, Shoreham; 74 female; and Ben Alger, Orwell, 152 doe.

December Dylan D’Avignon, Orwell, 121-4; Larry Bishop, Orwell, 135-3; Jeff Disorda, Benson, 123-5; Nathan Thompson, Benson, 105 doe; Shawn Cook, Castleton, 132 doe and 1043; Glen Hayward, Castleton, 144-8; Dean Ouellette, Orwell, 125 doe; Jared Disorda, Whiting, 135 doe; Wyatt Forbes, Orwell, 61 female; and Joseph Paquette, Orwell, 139 doe.

Also, Dennis Cummings, Orwell, 140 doe; Eric Russell, Orwell, 112 doe; J. Swenson, Orwell, 105 doe; Matt Bourgeois, Whiting, 122 doe; Dan Boyce, Benson, 113 doe and 130-7; Jacqueline Fyles, Orwell, 124 doe; Rikki Cloutier, Shoreham, 1558; Brian Kemp, Sudbury, 132-6; Ray Bradish, Orwell, 130-4; and Shane Wood, West Haven, 132 doe.

Also, Charles Eddy, Orwell, 115 doe; Robert Ryan, Orwell, 136-8; Leslie Myers, Hubbardton, 101 doe; Andrew Lane, New Haven, 120 doe; Leslie Johnson, Orwell, 142 doe; Doug Tracy, West Haven, 144 doe; Charlie Johnson, Benson, 112 doe; Fred Hotte, Shoreham, 75 doe; Rupert LaRock, Sudbury, 145-8; and Paul Maynard, Orwell, 167-10.

Also, Jason D’Avignon, Orwell, 118 doe; Bruce Bishop, Orwell, 118 doe; Paul Parent, Shoreham, 1894; Joe Russell, Orwell, 126 doe; Dennis Briere, Benson, 138 doe; Andrew Lanthier, Benson, 118-5 and 100 doe; Jacob Abbott, Sudbury, 103 doe; Eric Hall, Bristol, 136-6; Alan Christian, Benson, 120 doe; Christopher Mongeur, Orwell, 145 doe; and Taylor Patterson, 136 doe.

By the way (Continued from Page 1A) or send a text message to 802-9893237 and let organizers know you are coming so they have enough supplies.

Officials at the U.S. Small Business Administration recently announced they had expanded a program called HUBZone —Historically Underutilized Business Zone — which helps small businesses gain preferential access to federal contracts due to limited development in rural communities. Addison County is one place that will now be served.

The SBA is hosting workshops around the state to explain to small business owners how they can take advantage of the program. The local workshop is slated for Jan. 26 at the Addison County Economic Development Corp. in Middlebury (it’s the last one in Vermont). If you can’t wait that long, there will be a workshop in White River Junction at the Fairfield Inn & Suites next Tuesday, Dec. 20. For more information and to register for the event, go online to http://vtptac. ecenterdirect.com or contact Craig Baden by email craig.baden@ vermont.gov or at (802) 828-5237.

Five new members were elected to the Addison County Economic Development Corp. board of directors at the organization’s 22nd annual meeting on Dec. 2.

John Kiernan of Otter Creek Engineering and Stephanie Pope of Agri-Mark will serve one-year terms; and serving three-year terms will be Matthew Curran of Middlebury College, Sas Stewart of Stonecutter Spirits and Mark Bellinger of United Technologies Aerospace Systems of Vergennes.

All of their terms start Jan. 1.

Shop Locally Environmental Sustainability Local stores help to sustain vibrant, compact, walkable town centerswhich in turn are essential to reducing sprawl, automobile use, habitat loss, and air and water pollution.

— Institute For Local Self-Reliance

Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016 — PAGE 19A

Shumlin to pardon some with marijuana convictions MONTPELIER — Gov. Shumlin “Decriminalization said Gov. Peter Shumlin, he will citing 2013 legislative was a good consider pardoning action to decriminalize first step in convictions of possession of up to one updating our marijuana possession ounce of marijuana, on outmoded drug up to one ounce for Thursday announced laws. It makes people that do not his intention to allow have violent criminal Vermonters convicted no sense that Vermont convictions of that offense prior to minor marijuana or felonies on their the law change to apply convictions should records. for a pardon, essentially tarnish the lives To seek a pardon, wiping the offense off of Vermonters applicants should their criminal record. visit the website indefinitely.”

Applications will be governor.vermont.

— Gov. Shumlin gov. By clicking accepted beginning Dec. 8 and taken on the box titled through Dec. 25.

“Pardon Application For Marijuana “Today I am announcing an effort Possession” on the right side of the using the Governor’s pardoning page, applicants will be directed to a power to expedite our move to simple, secure web page application. a saner drug policy and criminal Each application will be justice system,” Shumlin said. considered individually, and there is “Decriminalization was a good no guarantee of a pardon. first step in updating our outmoded “However, I will try to get through drug laws. It makes no sense that as many as possible before the end minor marijuana convictions should of my administration on Jan. 5,” tarnish the lives of Vermonters Gov. Shumlin said. “This is the right indefinitely.” thing to do.”

Cheerful song

CAROLERS GATHER ON the steps of the Congregational Church of Middlebury Saturday morning and provide some cheer for the first day of Very Merry Middlebury festivities.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

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PAGE 20A — Addison Independent, Thursday, December 15, 2016

ADDISON COUNTY

Business News

Wells Mountain donates over 400 books to area children BRISTOL — Wells Mountain Foundation, a local nonprofit organization based in Bristol, Vt. has recently donated four hundred and thirty books through the Book Angels program. With a mission focused on education, literacy and community, Wells Mountain Foundation partners with social service agencies including Middlebury Family Services, H.O.P.E., Champlain Valley Headstart and Addison County Parent-Child Center to provide free books to children and

families in need.

The books were distributed before the winter break to encourage children and families to read during their time away from school. By working with local organizations who know of the children’s interests, Wells Mountain Foundation is able to select books that stimulate the children’s desire to learn while encouraging literacy and a lifelong desire to read. The Book Angels Program increases the opportunities for parents and children to read together, providing a

special bonding time while sending a message to children that reading can be an exciting and fun time.

Wells Mountain Foundation has been able to distribute over 10,000 books to children and teens from economically-challenged families in Addison County throughout the program’s 20-year existence.

WMF is committed to continuing their efforts to promote reading and literacy among children and families throughout Addison County, Vermont, and the world.

MIKE SMILES (CENTER) is passing the helm to newly appointed Co-executive Directors Joyce Cameron (left) and Erick Tichonuk (right).

LCMM appoints new directors

FERRISBURGH — Mike Smiles has resigned as Executive Director of LCMM effective Dec. 31 to pursue new opportunities.

“Mike has made valuable contributions to the museum during his tenure,” said Bob Beach, President of the LCMM Board of Directors. “Through his innovative approaches to enhancing and expanding our educational programs and partnering with AmeriCorps, Mike has positioned LCMM as a vital Expanded Learning Opportunity Provider. We wish Mike the best in his future endeavors.”

Joyce Cameron, who joined LCMM in 2016 as Director of Development and Community Relations, and Deputy Director Erick Tichonuk have been appointed as Co-Executive Directors. Joyce will oversee Administrative Operations and Erick will oversee Museum Operations and Schooner Lois McClure.

“We look forward to an outstanding program year in 2017,” Tichonuk commented.

“Our educational partnerships are going strong this winter, and we are getting ready to head to Syracuse for the World

Canal Conference to celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal.”

“The museum is kicking off its holiday annual appeal with a matching gift from two loyal donors totaling $50,000,” Cameron announced.

“All donations to the museum will be matched dollar for dollar up until December 31, helping us continue to shape lives through valuable education programs, irreplaceable collections, and environmental stewardship. Together we can make a significant impact on the future of Lake Champlain!”

IPJ Real Estate celebrates new location MIDDLEBURY — IPJ Real Estate recently moved to a new location on Middlebury’s Main Street.

Now located at 34 Main St., the new office is situated a few doors down from the company’s previous space. The new office provides work space for each of the agency’s four active Realtors, the licensed agent

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assistant, the office manager, as well as private meeting space. IPJ’s business has grown by 20 percent in the last couple of years and they had simply outgrown the other space.

“We are grateful to have had the opportunity to stay on Main Street in a larger space which functions better for our staff and clients/customers,”

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Asian Spiced Chicken Dumplings Served over wilted spinach with maple soy sauce

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said Amey Ryan, IPJ’s principal.

“We are committed to downtown Middlebury and the growth of this small and cohesive community.

Our office has been a staple of the downtown with our listing displays and our participation in just about every Middlebury event. We really do love this community!”

SPORTS REPORT Covering winter teams from Mt. Abe, Vergennes, Middlebury, & Otter Valley in today’s Addy Indy!