Holiday Guide 2009

Holiday Guide calendar of events

CONCERTS . FESTIVALS . TREE LIGHTINGS . MORE

holiday lighting displays local celebrations cut your own tree gift-giving ideas

November 2009 A special publication of the

Addison Independent

PAGE 2 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

ONE HUNDRED VOICES will join in songs of thanksgiving in a traditional performance at Middlebury College’s Mead Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 22. Jeff Rehbach leads a chorus made up of college students and residents of many area towns.

College Community Chorus presents sacred songs from psalms to gospel MIDDLEBURY — The Middlebury College Community Chorus will offer a special Thanksgiving concert on Sunday, Nov. 22, at 3 p.m. in Mead Chapel on the college campus. The choir will also sing the program in Burlington at First United Methodist Church on Saturday evening, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m. Admission is free for both performances. The chorus is directed by Jeff Rehbach and accompanied by George Matthew Jr. The 100-voice chorus draws singers from all over Addison County and beyond — Bristol, Brandon, Weybridge, Cornwall, Middlebury,

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Leicester, Bridport, Addison, Panton, New Haven, Ripton, East Middlebury, Lincoln, Starksboro, North Ferrisburgh, Vergennes and Charlotte — as well as students at the college from all parts of the U.S. The concert program offers music of joy, thanksgiving, and praise, as well as hope for peace in our world. Celebratory choruses from a rarely heard choral work by George Frederic Handel, the “Dettingen Te Deum,” open the program. The choir sings an inspired arrangement of Psalm 100, “Make a Joyful Noise,” by 20th-century Welsh composer William Mathias, as well as music

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of contemporary British composer-conductor John Rutter, including his vibrant setting of Psalm 47 “O Clap Your Hands” and his stirring “Gloria!”

Songs of hope, peace and love include “Blessed are the Peacemakers” by Middlebury College professor Peter Hamlin; “Set Me as a Seal Upon Your Heart” by Concordia College composer-conductor René Clausen; and the serene anthem “Grant Us Thy Peace”

by Felix Mendelssohn, as well as two songs of thanksgiving by Minnesota composer Stephen Paulus, “Hymn for America” and “Pilgrims’ Hymn.”

The concert concludes as members of the choir lift their voices in song with Vermont composer Gwyneth Walker’s “How Can I Keep from Singing?” and an energizing gospel arrangement “Rejoice!” by African American composer-conductor Jeffery L. Ames.

The choir is open to all singers without audition. The chorus traces its roots back to some 150 years ago when the Middlebury Musical Institute was founded. For more information, check on the Web at http:// go.middlebury.edu/chorus or contact conductor Jeff Rehbach at 443-5811.

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 3

Crafts and food raise funds at Middlebury Legion MIDDLEBURY — The American Legion Auxiliary in Middlebury will hold its 16th Annual Holiday Craft and Food Sale on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the American Legion Hall on Boardman Street.

A luncheon will be available with homemade soup and sandwiches.

Proceeds will go to the American Legion The veterans Auxiliary’s programs, choose children and youth programs, Girls’ State, gifts for their family helping veterans and their families, and other members community projects. from these Auxiliary members items free of will also be collecting items to be charge. They new donated to the veterans’ are wrapped Christmas Shop. The and even Christmas Shop will be held the first two mailed if weekends in December needed. at the Bennington Veterans Home and the White River Junction Veterans Hospital.

Organizers noted that anybody who has received a gift that is “not you” or doesn’t go with one’s décor but yet is too good to throw away, it’s perfect for this use.

The veterans choose gifts for their family members from these items free of charge. They are wrapped and even mailed if needed.

For more information on the craft sale or Christmas Shop, contact Linda Larocque at 802-443-5784 (days) or 802-388-3097 (evenings).

Horse for the holidays THE STATUE OUTSIDE the Morgan Horse Farm in Weybridge gets cleaned up and decked out for the holidays.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Middlebury comes alive with holiday spirit MIDDLEBURY — As is tradition, the first weekend in December will see the holiday season get rolling in downtown Middlebury. The village takes on a special charm during the holiday season as members of the Better Middlebury

Partnership (BMP) and other volunteers decorate the downtown with pine-bough wreathes and ribbons, and merchants decorate their shop windows with holiday decor.

The decorations, which are due to be put

up around Thanksgiving, herald the advent of the many special events. Look for performances and exhibits at area museums, galleries and businesses that will happen throughout (See Middlebury, Page 5)

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All our COLDWELL BANKER offices are serving as collection centers again this year. So come by at your convenience with your donation of a new, unwrapped toy.

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PAGE 4 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

THE ANNUAL FESTIVAL of Wreaths held in the Middlebury College Center for the Arts is a fund-raiser for the Mary Johnson Children’s Center in Middlebury. This year’s festival will feature dueling Red Sox and Yankees wreaths.

Festival of Wreaths is a holiday tradition not to be missed Independent photo/Trent Campbell

MIDDLEBURY — In the past 17 years the annual Festival of Wreaths has gone from a silent auction of 20 decorated holiday wreaths conducted in the Middlebury Union High School cafeteria to a high-profile holiday tradition staged at Middlebury College’s Mahaney Center for the Arts and featuring more than 100 wreaths.

The event, which this year will be held on Dec. 5 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., is the Mary Johnson Children’s Center’s only countywide fund-raiser each year.

The Festival of Wreaths has become an important part of the annual holiday kickoff festivities

that take place the first weekend in December and include the Better Middlebury Partnership’s “A Very Merry Middlebury.� Many families enjoy riding the horse-drawn wagon from the Sheldon Museum open house and Vermont Folklife Center gingerbread house display downtown out to see and bid on the wreaths at the arts center.

Each year now hundreds of people come to the festival — some to browse, many to bid. The wreaths are decorated by area merchants, artists and craftspeople with merchandise, gift certificates, and holiday decorations. The result is a very broad array of wreaths that range from

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director of MJCC. “Geiger has been a long-time supporter of Mary Johnson Children’s Center but this year, a year when many have been struggling, they are sending a wonderful message about a brighter future. We can’t thank them enough.�

New this year is an American Girl doll wreath — featuring the doll “Julie� — that will surely have all the young girls at the festival asking their parents to bid high.

Also look for dueling Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees wreaths.

Alyce Schermerhorn will decorate the Red Sox wreath, and Andrea Solomon stepped forward to decorate (See Wreaths, Page 26)

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the elegantly simple to the daringly complex. Some are traditional, some are cutting edge. Some merchants attach merchandise to sweeten the deal.

A special feature this year is a very broad array of Geiger of Austria wool products. Dorothea Langevin, Geiger’s sales and marketing manager, arranged an incredible lineup of four children’s wool jackets, several pairs of children’s slippers and a beautiful women’s jacket. These will all be on display as silent auction items. “When I arrived at Geiger I was stunned by the beautiful — and large — collection of items Dorothea had put together,� said Ilana Snyder, co-

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 5

Middlebury (Continued from Page 3) November and December. Many of the events — sponsored by the BMP under the theme “A Very Merry Middlebury” — are free and open to the public and make great family holiday outings.

As was the case last year in its first holiday season since renovation, next month will find lots of activity at the Town Hall Theater, a As was the terrific venue for mucase last sic and performance.

The theater at the top year in its of the Merchants Row first holiday will feature a swing season since dance with the East renovation, Bay Jazz Ensemble on Dec. 4, a concert by next month the Maiden Vermont will find lots ladies barbershop of activity at singing group (featurthe Town Hall ing celebrated soloist Debra Lynn) on Theater, a 11, a reading of terrific venue Dec. Truman Capote’s “A for music and Christmas Memory” performance. on Dec. 12, African dancing and drumTHE TRAIN DISPLAY at the annual open house at the Sheldon Museum in Middlebury is ming on Dec. 17, and featured as part of the day-long holiday festivities held every December. a big band ball on Dec. 18.

In addition to the 8 p.m. swing dance at houses — all of which are edible — will be on the top of Main Street from 10 a.m. to noon. the THT on Dec. 4, that night also will see display all month.

During that time, free horse-drawn wagon rides Middlebury College’s Mahaney Center for the But the main event in Middlebury is always will carry the public up Main Street to the colArts host the Middlebury Community Wind the first Saturday of the last month of the year. lege’s Mahaney Center for the Arts, where the Ensemble’s winter performance.

This year looks to be as jam-packed with activ- Festival of Wreaths will be staged. The annual Another sweet event that evening is the open- ity as ever. silent auction of more than 100 beautifully decing of Gingerbread House Contest Exhibit at Santa Claus himself will visit with children orated wreathes will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Vermont Folklife Center on Main Street. The at the Middlebury Community House near with a live brass band and refreshments.

If you want to go inside, pop into the Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History. During its 10 a.m.-4 p.m. open house, the museum will present “Addison County Kids: A Community Photo Album,” and exhibit of photos, past and present, of children growing up in Addison County. The open house continues on Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.

Two other favorite local traditions take place on the afternoon of that Sunday, Dec. 6.

“Lessons and Carols” takes place at Middlebury College’s Mead Chapel at 4 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. The program combines choral music, congregational singing and the biblical texts of the season. Chaplain Laurel Macaulay Jordan will officiate and music will be provided by George Matthew Jr. on the chapel carillon, Emory Fanning on the organ, and Jeff Buettner leading the Middlebury College Choir. Donations will be collected for local charities.

And, just after dusk, at 5:30 p.m., a highlight of the year for many: the Middlebury Lion’s Club will light its Christmas tree at Court Square.

That’s just the first weekend of December.

The holiday spirit will continue to roll with wagon rides and visits with Santa from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 12, at Maple Landmark Woodcraft. And Santa will make one more pre-Christmas appearance on Saturday, Dec. 19, at Danforth Pewter on Seymour Street Extension from 10 a.m.-noon.

As the special night draws closer, public activities slow down. But the Middlebury Congregational Church will be awash in holiday spirit on the afternoon of Sunday, Dec. 20, when Jeff Rehbach leads the 25th annual community sing of Handel’s “Messiah.”

PAGE 6 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide, Thursday, November 19, 2009

Nov

19

Holiday calendar

based on a monologue by Alessandro Baricco about a newborn baby found abandoned on an ocean liner in 1900, who lives his life on board and goes on to become a great jazz pianist.

Free. Also showing Nov. 21. Info: 443-3168. “Desdemona: A Play About a Handkerchief� on stage in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, 8 and 10:30 p.m., Middlebury College, Hepburn Zoo. Uproarious spin on Shakespeare’s “Othello.�

Also playing Nov. 21 and 22. Tickets $4. Info: 443-3168.

Sound Investment Jazz Ensemble in concert in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Dick Forman, director. Classic and contemporary big band and swing. Free. Info: 443-6433.

Possumhaw in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, 8:30-11:30 p.m., 51 Main. Bluegrass. Info: www. go51main.com.

THURSDAY

“The Music Man� opening night gala in Middlebury. Thursday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater. The Middlebury Community Players present this classic musical about a con man and the librarian who stops him in his tracks. Reception at 7, show at 8, and desserts and champagne at intermission. Gala tickets $50, available at the THT box office, online at www.townhalltheater. org or at 382-9222.

Armchair Traveler presentation on Syria in New Haven. Thursday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m., New Haven Community Library. New Haven resident Harry Chaucer presents “Impressions of Syria — a Generalist’s View,� stories, slides and music from his recent 15-day trip to Syria. Info: 453-4015. “Oklahoma!� on stage in Bristol. Thursday, Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m., Mount Abraham Union High School. MAUHS students present the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic. Also showing Nov. 20 and 21. Adults $9, seniors and children under 12 $6. Tickets and info: 453-2333.

Recital by students of Diana Fanning in Middlebury. Thursday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Fanning’s piano students play a variety of works. Free. Info: 443-3168 or www.middlebury. edu/arts. “Nineteen Hundred� on stage in Middlebury.

Thursday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Wright Theater. Senior play by Nerina Cocchi based on a monologue by Alessandro Baricco about a newborn baby found abandoned on an ocean liner in 1900, who lives his life on board and goes on to become a great jazz pianist. Free.

Also showing Nov. 20 and 21. Info: 443-3168.

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20

Nov

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FRIDAY

Ten Thousand Villages Craft Fair in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Memorial Baptist Church, 97 South Pleasant St. Unique and beautiful items for sale from around the world.

Senior luncheon in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, noon, Rosie’s. Affordable luncheon dining for adults 60 and over. Suggested donation of $5.

Call 1-800-642-5119 for reservations.

Third Friday Contradance in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, 7-10 p.m., Middlebury Municipal Gym. Musicians Peter Macfarlane, Rick Klein and John Dickason, with caller Rachel Nevitt. For all ages.

Hosted by the ACT Teen Center. ACT-registered teen $4, individual $8, couple $12, family $16.

Info: 388-3910 or www.addisonteens.com. “Oklahoma!� on stage in Bristol. Friday, Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m., Mount Abraham Union High School.

See details under Nov. 19 listing. “Pinocchio� screening in Vergennes. Friday, Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House.

Disney’s 1940 classic, digitally restored. Part of the Friday Night Flicks series. Tickets at the door $5 each, $5 discount for families of four. Info:

Sing-a-long MARY HOGAN ELEMENTARY School students get into the spirit of the season during one of their annual holiday sing-a-longs in the school gym.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

877-6737 or www.vergennesoperahouse.org. “The Music Man� on stage in Middlebury.

Friday, Nov. 20, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater.

The Middlebury Community Players present this classic musical about a con man and the librarian who stops him in his tracks. Tickets $17 adults, $14 children 12 and under, available at the THT box office, online at www.townhalltheater.org or at 382-9222.

Fall dance concert in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 20, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Advanced student choreographers explore the impacts of theatrical lighting. Also showing Nov. 21. Tickets $10/8/6, available at 443-6433 or www.middlebury.edu/arts/tickets. “Nineteen Hundred� on stage in Middlebury.

Friday, Nov. 20, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Wright Theater. Senior play by Nerina Cocchi

SATURDAY

Hunters/early bird breakfast in Starksboro. Saturday, Nov. 21, 6-10 a.m., Jerusalem Schoolhouse, South Starksboro. All you can eat.

Adults $7, children under 10 $2. To benefit the Friends of the Jerusalem School Restoration Project. Also on Nov. 28.

Board game marathon in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Ilsley Library. The library presents “Gathering of the Gamers,� an all-day event that includes 50 or more board games. Demonstrations. Game and prize raffles throughout the day. For info or to teach a game, call Chris at 388-4095.

Ten Thousand Villages Craft Fair in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Memorial Baptist Church, 97 South Pleasant St. Unique and beautiful items for sale from around the world.

Winter farmers’ market in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., American Flatbread in the Marble Works. Local vegetables, apples, cider, meats, eggs and crafts. Every Saturday until Christmas.

American Legion Holiday Craft and Food Sale in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., American Legion. Sixteenth annual event, with proceeds to benefit Legion Auxiliary programs.

Soup and sandwiches available. Info: 443-5784 or 388-3097. “Waltz with Bashir� screening in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 3 and 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Dana Auditorium. Award-winning documentary of an Israeli soldier piecing together lost memories through interviews. In Hebrew, German and Arabic with English subtitles.

Chicken and biscuit supper in Brandon.Saturday, Nov. 21, 5-7 p.m., St. Mary’s Hall. Reservations: 247-9513. Takeout: (802)-353-6272. “Oklahoma!� on stage in Bristol. Saturday, Nov. 21, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Mount Abraham Union High School. See details under Nov. 19 listing.

Christine Lavin in concert in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 6 p.m., United Methodist Church. Doors open at 6, concert begins at 7.

(Continued on Page 12)

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 7

Family, friends, community are focus of Brandon celebration BRANDON — The people of Brandon are nual holiday auction, which will feature enterplanning a full calendar of special holiday tainment, refreshments and door prizes. More events over the next month to set the mood for than 50 local patrons and artists are donating the season and remind us what is most impor- holiday wreaths, decor, artwork and treasures tant: family, friends and community. for the event.

The town gets it started on Sunday, Nov. 29, Live music and an auction preview are at 3 with the traditional Memory Tree Lighting in p.m. The bidding begins at 3:30 p.m. A $1 doCentral Park. At 3:30 p.m. people nation at the door is requested. will gather for singing and other As we get closer to that magholiday festivities, with the tree The Jingle Bell ic night, the Brandon Farmers’ Jaunt is a fun lighting to follow.

Market Holiday Bazaar will be The following weekend, activ- run for kids age held on Saturday, Dec. 12, at ities will kick into high gear with 3-12 and their the Brandon Inn from 9 a.m.-3 the Jingle Bell Jaunt on Saturday, p.m. Organizers promise lots of Dec. 5, and a holiday benefit auc- families. Prizes vendors, crafts, great gift ideas tion at the Brandon Free Public will be awarded and more. On Dec. 13, celLibrary the next day. ebrate another annual highlight, to all who The Jingle Bell Jaunt is a fun the Brandon Festival Singers enter. The race run for kids age 3-12 and their performing the music of Gene families. Prizes will be awarded begins at noon, Childers. The venue for this is the to all who enter. Register at the with awards Brandon Congregational Church Brandon Inn beginning at 10 ceremony, at 3 p.m. The season would not a.m.; the first 75 to register will feel the same without this perforreceive a free T-shirt. The race hot cocoa, mance. A free-will offering will begins at noon, with awards cer- goodies and be sought. emony, hot cocoa, goodies and holiday carols Throughout the month of holiday carols immediately fol- immediately December The Inside Scoop in lowing in the inn.

Brandon will hold a “Decorate The race is sponsored by area following in the a Gingerbread House� event. businesses, with all proceeds to inn.

Participants use selections from benefit Brandon Area Food Shelf The Inside Scoop’s candy choices and toy drive. Registration is $3 to create their own masterpieces plus one canned food item per individual, $8 to bring home. Other local businesses will offor a family (plus one canned food item per in- fer discounts, specials and prizes in a series of dividual). For more information call 247-0228 Moonlight Madness promotions on Wednesday, or 247-5661.

Dec. 2, and Thursday, Dec. 17. The fun starts at The next day at the library, join the Friends 4 p.m. and the shops will be open until 8 p.m. of the Brandon Free Public Library for their an-

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PAGE 8 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

Bristol’s Cool Yule Bristol brings families and holiday shopping together BRISTOL — December is a month of activity in Bristol, with lots of family activities for all ages under the aegis of Cool Yule. Events include church bazaars, concerts by local musicians and groups, commemorative events, caroling, open houses, extended business hours and more.

Cool Yule activities get under way with the lighting of the bandstand and Memory Tree in the Bristol town green on the evening of Friday, Dec. 4, and will continue right through to Bristol Best Night and other New Year’s Eve festivities on Dec. 31.

The first Cool Yule was held in 1998. It was begun by the Five Town Council, a part of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce, to bring people back from the malls into downtown Bristol. The idea was to invite people to do their holiday shopping locally and to foster a sense of community spirit around the holidays, to create a community festival atmosphere surrounding these formerly isolated events. In the past the Rotary Club had decorated Bristol’s Main Street and the green, including the bandstand, and various organizations have held events like lighting the Memory Tree and holding

Christmas bazaars, but no one had consolidated these into a community calendar.

So for the past 11 years, the Five Town Council and now also the Bristol Downtown Community Partnership have decorated the streets and presented Cool Yule to give the fivetown area a sense of unity and to re-ignite that sense of community festival.

The result has been a new sense of enjoying the holidays locally, with new events being added each year. Some, like the church bazaars and visits from Santa Claus, have been ongoing for decades, and others have appeared on the scene only during the past few years.

Every year the calendar includes some old stand-bys, like the bazaars and the lighting of the bandstand and Memory Tree. And the public counts on the Boy Scouts to sell Christmas trees every year.

But new events have been added more recently, like the Mount Abe Cheerleaders’ fund-raising pancake breakfast with Santa, Hypnosis Works’ holiday de-stress workshop, or the Downtown Chocolate Walk.

The kick-off for this year’s Cool Yule will take place on the green at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec.

CANDLES AND A white ash fire illuminate the longest night of the year at the Watershed Center’s Annual Solstice Celebration last year. The solstice event will begin at 5 p.m. on Dec. 21 at the Waterworks Property. Bring a dish or drinks to share.

Photo by Jonathan Blake

4, with the lighting of the bandstand and the Memory Tree. The Bristol Elementary School and Mount Abraham Union High School choruses will sing seasonal songs and local merchants will hold a food drive. To contribute, the public can bring nonperishable foods to the green from 5 p.m. onward, where a truck with

the label “Food Drive” will be stationed.

To encourage more people to come downtown, Bristol merchants will stay open until 8 p.m. every Friday in December and hold a weekly raffle from 5 to 8 p.m. A winner selected each Friday will receive $50 in Bristol Bucks.

(See Bristol, Page 10)

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 9

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PAGE 10 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

Bristol’s Cool Yule (Continued from Page 9) The first Friday is, of course, the night of the bandstand and tree lighting. The second one, Dec. 11, from 5-8 p.m., will feature the 2nd Annual Chocolate Walk in downtown. Businesses will offer a complimentary chocolate treat to customers. Follow the special map so you don’t miss any chocolate opportunities.

The last Friday before Christmas, Dec. 18, will see various groups roaming downtown caroling between 6 and 8 p.m.

Two popular bazaars take place the first weekend in December. “The Treasure of Family� is a two-day Christmas bazaar on Friday, Dec. 4, 1-5 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at, St. Ambrose Church. Look for children’s activities, a raffle, silent auction, and attic treasures. On Friday there will be a “silver tea� at 2:30 p.m. and kids’ cookie decorating at 3 p.m. Info: 453-2488. Saturday will feature a kids’ craft table at 9 a.m., kids’ cookie decorating at 9 a.m., and Santa’s visit at noon.

Haven’t had enough treasures? Head to the Christmas bazaar at the First Baptist Church on that Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be baked goods, crafts, treasures and a silent auction, in addition to a homemade soups and sandwich luncheon.

Then there are several more singing and visual arts events the following weekend. On Thursday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. the Mount Abe Union High School Winter Concert will be held. The

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The Art on Main gallery will host a reception on Friday, Dec. 11, 5-7 p.m., to celebrate sea-glass jewelry and sun catchers by Jennifer Wagner of Burlington and whimsical yet practical ceramics

by Jennifer Ranz of Greensboro.

On that Sunday, Dec. 13, the “Social Band� comes to town to perform “Deep Midwinter: Songs from Winter’s Heart� at 4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church. The concert will feature a gallery of choral pieces old and new for the many moods of winter and the holiday season.

The Waterworks Property of Plank Road hosts a Solstice Celebration Dec. 21 at 5 p.m.

The last night of the year, Thursday, Dec. 31, is, of course, “Best Night� in Bristol. Gatherings and events will occur at three locations: Holley Hall, the First Baptist Church, and the Walkover Gallery. Buttons for admission to the evening’s events will be available at local businesses throughout Bristol.

An unusual fire organ will begin playing downtown at 3 p.m. Indoor entertainment will include magician Tom Verner, West African music from African Djole, swing and bluegrass with the Michele Faye Band, more bluegrass from The Hibernators, The Beamish Boys playing American roots music and fun family music from Susan Reit and Mary Ann Samuels.

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 11

Community meals offered on Thanksgiving Public invited in four county towns ADDISON COUNTY/BRANDON — A number of local groups are taking the notion of a family Thanksgiving feast and expanding the idea of family to include the entire community. Community holiday dinners will be served in the last week of December in Bristol, Vergennes, Middlebury and Brandon.

Bristol area churches will kick off the eating season with a Five-town Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 22, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Bristol. The meal will be served complete with turkey, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables and dessert.

It is free to families in the five-town area of Bristol, Monkton, New Haven, Starksboro and Lincoln. The meal is sponsored by the Bristol Baptist Church, Bristol Federated Church, Bristol Fellowship, Bristol’s Seventh Day Adventist Church and St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Lincoln United Church, Monkton Friends/ Methodist Church, New Haven Congregational Church and Starksboro Baptist Church.

If you have questions, call 453-4280 between 8 and 11 a.m.

On Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner will be served at noon at the Addison County Eagles Club in Vergennes.

The meal is open to everyone in the area who would be spending the day alone. They are invited to come enjoy good food, fun and fellowship. Organizers are also offering home delivery at 11 a.m. for shut-ins.

BO AND LIZ Cleveland and their son, Wyatt, help carve turkeys prepared for the community Thanksgiving dinner at the VFW in Middlebury for a recent Thanksgiving. The Clevelands, who also had their daughter, Addie, with them, used to work at a soup kitchen near their former home in Montana on Thanksgiving Day and now they volunteer here along with many others who offer their time at community dinners around the county.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

To RSVP or arrange delivery, call 877-2055 after 3 p.m., or send a note to 67 New Haven Road, Vergennes, VT 05491.

The Addison County Eagles have provided these meals since 1982.

Another traditional Thanksgiving dinner will be served in Middlebury at the VFW Hall on

Exchange Street beginning at 12:30 p.m. Craig Bingham, who has been working at the dinner for more than two decades, said it is open to everyone regardless of age or income.

Call ahead for home delivery or a ride to the event: 388-9465.

Anyone in or near Brandon on Thanksgiving

Day is invited to the Brandon Senior Citizen’s Center for a meal at 1 p.m. Organizers will serve a family-style meal to the public.

Reservations are required due to limited seating. Call Jane Coolidge at 247-6512 or Kathy Mathis at 247-6720 before Nov. 21. Free will offerings will be accepted.

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PAGE 12 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide, Thursday, November 19, 2009

Holiday calendar

Haven Road, Vergennes, VT 05491.

Thanksgiving dinner in Middlebury. Thursday, Nov. 26, 12:30 p.m., VFW Hall, Exchange Street. Open to everyone regardless of age or income. Call ahead for home delivery or a ride to the event: 388-9465.

Nov

27

FRIDAY

Public skating in Middlebury.

Friday, Nov. 27, 1:45-3 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

Stick & puck hockey in Middlebury.

Friday, Nov. 27, 3:15-4:15 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

“The Music Man” on stage in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 27, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater. See details under Nov. 20 listing.

Nov

28

Fresh cut SHEILA AND GORDON Mitchinson drag a fresh cut Scotch pine tree out of the Werner Tree Farm in Middlebury.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

(Continued from Page 6) Tickets $18, available at Main Street Stationery and the Middlebury Inn, or by mail. Info: www. afterdarkmusicseries.com or 388-0216.

Bee a Honey Fun Raisin’ Dinner in Bristol.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 6 p.m., Mary’s Restaurant.

Fund-raiser for the Living Well Care Home in Bristol. Delicious food and wine, silent auction.

Tickets $35 per person. Info: 453-3946.

Solo pianist Cody Michaels in concert in Vergennes. Saturday, Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House. Critically acclaimed Vermont musician and compose Cody Michaels presents a solo concert of original music, “After the Leaves Have Gone: Celebrating Late Fall and the Promise of Winter Through Music and Spoken Word.” Tickets $12 adults, $8 students and seniors, available at Classic Stitching and the opera house in Vergennes, www.flynntix.org, or (802) 86FLYNN. Info: 877-6737.

Hungry Mind Jazz Jam in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 7:30-10 p.m., Carol’s Hungry Mind. A group of local musicians will join German guitarist Werner Krotz for an evening of acoustic jazz, fusion and bossa novas. Come listen — or sit in. Free.

Free movie in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 7:45 p.m., Turningpoint Center in the Marble Works.

“Angels and Demons,” with Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor and Ayelet Zurer. Info: 388-4249.

“Nineteen Hundred” on stage in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Wright Theater. Senior play by Nerina Cocchi based on a monologue by Alessandro Baricco about a newborn baby found abandoned on an ocean liner in 1900, who lives his life on board and goes on to become a great jazz pianist.

Free. Info: 443-3168.

“The Music Man” on stage in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater.

See details under Nov. 20 listing.

“Desdemona: A Play About a Handkerchief” on stage in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Hepburn Zoo. Uproarious spin on Shakespeare’s “Othello.” Also running Nov. 22. Tickets $4. Info: 443-3168.

Fall dance concert in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Advanced student choreographers explore the impacts of theatrical lighting. Tickets $10/8/6, available at 443-6433 or www.middlebury.edu/arts/tickets.

We Are the Financial Crisis in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 p.m.-midnight, 51 Main.

Improv-rock. Info: www.go51main.com.

Nov

22

SUNDAY

Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble in Middlebury. Sunday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m., Municipal Gym. Check-in 10-11:30 a.m., buses leave for starting point at 11:40 a.m., 5K and 10K races start at noon. Registration fees $20 by Nov. 20, $25 after Nov. 20. Info: www.middlebury.govoffice. com.

Public skating in Middlebury. Sunday, Nov. 22, 1:15-2:45 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

“The Music Man” on stage in Middlebury.

Sunday, Nov. 22, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater. See details under Nov. 20 listing.

Chamber music recital and concert in Benson.

Sunday, Nov. 22, 2 p.m., Benson Community Hall. The Capitol Chamber Artists present “Creative Genius,” a musical celebration of Haydn and Mendelssohn. Recital at 2 p.m., concert at 3 p.m. Tickets $16 adults, $8 students.

Info: 537-3151.

Thanksgiving choral program “Make a Joyful Noise” at Middlebury College. Sunday, Nov. 22, 3 p.m., Mead Memorial Chapel. Special Thanksgiving program performed by Middlebury College Community Chorus, conducted by Jeff Rehbach. Free. Info: 443-6433.

Community Thanksgiving dinner in Bristol.

Sunday, Nov. 22, 5-6:30 p.m., St. Ambrose Catholic Church. The churches in the five-town area invite residents of Bristol, Monkton, New Haven, Starksboro and Lincoln to a free turkey dinner. Info: 453-4280 between 8 and 11 a.m.

“Desdemona: A Play About a Handkerchief” on stage in Middlebury. Sunday, Nov. 22, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Hepburn Zoo. Uproarious spin on Shakespeare’s “Othello.” Tickets $4.

Info: 443-3168.

Nov

24

TUESDAY Public skating in Middlebury.

Tuesday, Nov. 24, 9-10:30 a.m., Memorial Sports Center.

Nov

25

WEDNESDAY

Public skating in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2:30-3:45 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

Stick & puck hockey in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Nov. 25, 4-5:15 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

Nov

26

THURSDAY

Traditional Thanksgiving dinner in Vergennes. Thursday, Nov. 26, noon, Eagles Club. Open to everyone in the area who would be spending the day alone. Home delivery at 11 a.m. for shut-ins. To RSVP or arrange delivery, call 877-2055 after 3 p.m., or send a note to 67 New

SATURDAY

Hunters/early bird breakfast in Starksboro. Saturday, Nov. 28, 6-10 a.m., Jerusalem Schoolhouse, South Starksboro. All you can eat.

Adults $7, children under 10 $2. To benefit the Friends of the Jerusalem School Restoration Project.

Winter farmers’ market in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 28, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., American Flatbread in the Marble Works. Local vegetables, apples, cider, meats, eggs and crafts. Every Saturday until Christmas.

Public skating in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 28, 4-5:15 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

“The Music Man” on stage in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 28, 2 and 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater. See details under Nov. 20 listing.

Free movie in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 28, 7:45 p.m., Turningpoint Center in the Marble Works. “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian,” with Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Owen Wilson, Robin Williams. Info: 388-4249.

Maple View Farm Alpacas open house in Brandon. Saturday, Nov. 28, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Maple View Farm, 185 Adams Road. See alpacas and learn about these intelligent and curious creatures. See fiber being carded and spun into yarn. Continues on Nov. 29. Info: 247-5412 or www.mapleviewfarmalpacas.com.

Nov

29

SUNDAY

Maple View Farm Alpacas open house in Brandon. Sunday, Nov. 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Maple View Farm, 185 Adams Road.

See alpacas and learn about these intelligent and curious creatures. See fiber being carded (Continued on Page 22)

Downhill fun FRESH-MADE SNOW clings to the trees along a run at the Snow Bowl in Hancock.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 13

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PAGE 14 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

WAYNE SMITH POSES in front of his Salisbury home where he has a display of 10,000 Christmas lights. Smith has been decorating his yard and home near Lake Dunmore for years and spends as much as $450 a month to power the massive display.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

The art of holiday lights County residents flip the switch

By KATHRYN FLAGG It’s not cheap. All of the lights add an extra $15 ADDISON COUNTY — Ten thousand lights, a a day to Smith’s electricity bill, which tallies up to half-mile of extension cords and 60 hours of hard an additional $450 come Christmastime. But Smith work setting up — for Salisbury resident Wayne doesn’t mind.

Smith, that sounds like a recipe for Christmas spirit.

“That’s my Christmas present to Addison County,” Smith takes to his yard every he said.

November to start stringing up The display changes a little every an extensive display of lights and year, but Smith has a soft spot for holiday decorations that, for 15 his old Case tractor, which he decks years, has been his way of marking out in orange lights. the season. It started small, with a If you ask Smith his age, he’ll few decorations here and there, but only admit to being “over 60.” So by the time Smith bought a bit more long as health permits, he hopes property at his home at the north end to be continuing his decorating for of Lake Dunmore, he had the room yeas to come. He chips away at the to go crazy. decorations a little bit every day Now, he said, he’s got the display through most of November, and set up so that visitors can pull through

by Dec. 1 every year he’s ready to his circular driveway to admire the flip the switch. The decorations — lights. which take 40 hours to take down Smith isn’t alone in the county. and store at the end of the season — Come the holiday season, there’s come down on Jan. 1. nothing like breaking out the Meanwhile, the holiday lights and decorations to jumpstart holiday — Roger Hayes seasonal decorations are going up celebrations, and many people do of Vergennes elsewhere in the county. just that.

In Vergennes, Roger and Sue Smith said that once his light Hayes are already looking forward display is up he has a steady stream of visitors, and to their annual holiday tradition. Every year, on the the neighbors are always excited about the display, day after Thanksgiving, the couple constructs the he said. Sometimes kids will hop out of the vehicles Christmas manger in downtown Vergennes near that brought them and run around. Smith warns them the city park. The two have been the keepers of to watch out for that half-mile of extension cords, the manger for more than 30 years, a job they take but otherwise they’re free to roam the lighted winter seriously. Sue’s repainted the figurines.

(See Lights, Page 15) wonderland.

“You should see what (my wife) does on the inside of our house.”

A FESTIVE TREE and the warm glow from Dennis Sparling’s ornate lamp post warm the chilled air at the end of Frog Hollow alley in Middlebury.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 15

Lights (Continued from Page 14) But the Hayeses aren’t the only ones who take the manger scene seriously. Last year, once the Christmas scene was packed away, Roger Hayes got a phone call from a father.

After the manger disappeared for the year, the father explained, his toddler had voiced some concerns.

Now that Christmas was over, the child wanted to know, where was the baby Jesus sleeping?

So Roger invited the father and child over, and took them into the basement of the church where the manger is stored 11 months out of 12. That seemed to do the trick, he said.

But the manger isn’t the only way Roger and Sue Hayes celebrate the season. They deck out their Maple Manor home in very traditional, simple decorations: White lights, wreaths on every window, and a bright star adorn the house.

“You should see what (my wife) does on the inside of our house,” Roger said.

Across the county in Starksboro, Peg Casey also jumps in on the decorating game. She’s been decorating since she and her husband moved into their house on the main drag in town in 1988.

She keeps it simple: a nativity scene, green boughs and red bows, and a sprinkling of lights here and there. But for Casey, that’s enough. It’s part of what makes the holidays fun, she said.

Back in Vergennes, Laurel and Howard Jewell are also gearing up for the holiday season.

Laurel said it’s her husband every year who heads out into the yard with armfuls of decorations, spending four or five hours to deck the halls in style. The couple has lived

A CHRISTMAS DISPLAY that went up on a Middlebury lawn this month stands ready to delight as soon as snow and darkness fall.

in their Vergennes house for three years, and each year they amass a bigger collection of decorations, thanks to Laurel’s bargain hunting. She waits until after the holidays to scoop up new decorations on sale.

Their decorations include inflatable Christmas figures, a giant Santa Claus, and Christmas lights on their house and the trees in their yard.

Laurel admitted that running Christmas lights and inflatable figures can add an extra expense to the family’s electricity bill, come Christmastime. So the Jewells try to cut back where they can. They’re switching to LED lighting for the outdoor lights, and they only keep the lights on for a few hours every night in the early evening, when cars and neighbors are most likely to drive by.

The passersby love the display, Laurel said.

Sometimes, cars even stop, and visitors will snap photographs of the Jewells’ home.

“My husband really enjoys seeing people drive by really slow,” said Laurel. “He knows exactly what they’re looking at.”

What’s most gratifying, Laurel said, is knowing that their house does a little bit to spread Christmas cheer come wintertime.

A WELL LIT tractor is one of the many displays at the Salisbury home of Wayne Smith. The amazing light show is visible from Route 53 on the way to Lake Dunmore’s Branbury State Park.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

PAGE 16 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

Vergennes Holiday Stroll Little City has big plans to help Addison County kick off the 2009 holiday season VERGENNES — Vergennes is inviting everybody to kick off the holidays on Saturday, Dec. 5, with the Little City’s annual Holiday Stroll. It promises to be a day of activities to put all in the holiday frame of mind.

A traditional visit from Santa Claus to the Vergennes Union High School cafeteria will start the day. The jolly old elf will make an appearance at a pancake breakfast from 7:30 to 10 a.m. in an event sponsored by VUHS students and Friends of Music. The breakfast is free for kiddies under age 3, $4 for children under 10, and $6 for everyone else.

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Children may make a toy House to the Bixby Library. in Santa’s workshop while Santa and his elves will Organizers remind everyone to they’re there. really get the celebration bring bells to ring and voices Next, while wait for the going at 10:30 a.m., to sing during the stroll. traditional stroll down Main when they lead a “Ring The library will host a Street, attendees may play holiday open house from 10 “Spot the Candy Cane� at in the Holiday Stroll� a.m. to 2 p.m., which will downtown merchants and win walk from the Vergennes include a silent auction of a candy cane and a discount Opera House to the Bixby holiday baskets donated by coupon. Or visit the 9th annual Library. local businesses and library Winter Holiday Craft Fair at patrons. Bidding on the the elementary school, which goody-filled baskets closes at runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The price of admission 1:45, with winners announced at 2 p.m. is canned goods or other non-perishable foodstuff Visitors may also bring donations for the Bixby’s for the local food shelf. “Mitten and Sock Tree.�

Santa and his elves will really get the celebration At the library, Santa will read Clement Moore’s going at 10:30 a.m., when they lead a “Ring in the classic poem, “’Twas the Night Before Christmas� at Holiday Stroll� walk from the Vergennes Opera (Continued on Page 17)

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 17

Vergennes Holiday Stroll (Continued on from Page 16) around 10:45 a.m. Then singer/songwriter Jon Gailmor will entertain the jolly makers at the library around 11 a.m. Due to limited space and high demand, free tickets are required for the Gailmor performance; those interested may call 877-2211 for tickets.

After a break for light refreshments, the a cappella singing group Maiden Vermont will perform at Bixby from 12:45 to 1:15 p.m.

In the meantime, of course, downtown businesses will be open all day to welcome shoppers with a festive cheer.

Those who want to listen to or share memories, photos, and the like from Christmases past may visit the Clock Shop at 33 Green St. from 11 a.m. to noon for “Reminiscing with Father Time.� Simply Nice Things will be serving mulled cider and cookies The Vergennes Opera House will be hosting a “Winter Wonderland� open house from 2 to 4:30 p.m., at which the Addison County Gospel Choir perform will perform at 2:30 p.m.

Also, beginning at 2:30 p.m., children will have an opportunity to visit with Santa. They can have their photo taken with St. Nick for $2. While they are waiting, or after

the visit, there are lots of activities, including hand painting, gingerbread cookie decorating for children of all ages with Northlands Job Corps Academy, and Mrs. Claus reading stories.

Attendees may also choose to make an ornament at Santa’s Workshop to decorate the “Children’s Holiday Tree,� which will be on display at Jackman Fuels for the month of December.

And they should watch for the New Haven Twilight Tails 4-H’ers lighted horse-drawn wagon with carolers at 4:45 p.m., which will herald the lighting of the city green and the Memory Tree by Mayor Michael Daniels at 5 p.m.

The Addison County Gospel Choir will lead the caroling at the tree lighting ceremony.

Those looking for more entertainment may check out two more musical performances. From 5:30 to 6:20 p.m. it will be “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,� the Christmas cantata

by Vergennes Victory Baptist Church.

Then at 7 p.m., the Otter Creek Choral Society’s Holiday Concert a t Vergennes Congregational Church will get under way. The choral society will give a repeat performance on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m.

Admission is $5, while children 6 and under may get in free.

Vergennes food drive starts Dec. 5 The Vergennes Holiday Stroll is the kick-off for a weeklong collection for the Community Food Shelf. Donors are asked to bring nonperishable food items Dec. 5-12 to participating Vergennes businesses.

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PAGE 18 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

Holiday songs performed at Bristol church

Holiday hayride A HORSE-DRAWN wagon pulls up in front of the Middlebury Community House to provide rides during the town’s annual holiday celebration.

BRISTOL — Social Band, northwestern Vermont’s lively band of singers, will present “Deep Midwinter: Songs from Winter’s Heart,” a concert and CD release in Bristol this holiday season as part of a four-town tour. The concert will feature a gallery of choral pieces old and “People new for the many moods respond to the of winter and the holiday cold starkness season.

The one Addison of winter County performance will by seeking take place Sunday, Dec. and creating 13, at 4 p.m. at the First light, warmth, Baptist Church of Bristol. joy and The group will also sing in Richmond on Dec. celebration.

12, Burlington on Dec. 19 Through and Hinesburg on Dec. our musical 20. selections The winter season is we strive to upon us, bringing concapture this trasts of outer cold and contrast.” inner warmth, a sense of — Director hunkering down and resAmity Baker tiveness, scarcity and celebration, light and dark.

Social Band has combed its repertoire and sent a call out to Vermont composers to tell some of the story of this beautiful, rich, yet stark season.

“People respond to the cold starkness of winter by seeking and creating light, warmth, joy and celebration. Through our musical selections (See Socail Band, Page 19)

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Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 19

Social Band (Continued from Page 18) we strive to capture this contrast,” noted Social Band director Amity Baker.

The program opens with the title song of the CD and of the concert — Braden Toan’s “Deep Midwinter,” which evokes images of the quiet cold.

Other songs will be Thomas L. Read’s newly composed suite titled “Winter Fields, Woods and Air” featuring

A FAMILY SCOPES out just the right tree at a cut-your-own farm in Bristol.

Independent photo/John S. McCright

Cutting your own tree sets a festive mood ADDISON COUNTY — Choosing is present to offer assistance, and a Christmas tree can be a special part growers are generally happy to take of the holiday rituals, especially pictures if a family wants a memento if you cut your own. More than a of their outing. half-dozen Christmas tree farms in Phil Kivlin of Red Sled Christmas Addison County allow visitors to Tree Farm in Shoreham advises procome onto the land and spective cutters that the cut their own spruce, fir trees “look smaller in Trees “look and balsam trees. the field,” so measuring The season begins smaller in the height of your ceilthe weekend after the field,” so ing before piling in the Thanksgiving. If it’s too car for the trip to the tree early to put a tree up measuring farm is a good idea. Like at your house, at many the height of most farm operators, fams the trees may be your ceiling Kivlin will shake the tree tagged and cut later. to remove dead needles, The first two weeks in before piling grass and birds’ nests, December are the busi- in the car for and wrap the tree in netest times at the cut-yourwith his homemade the trip to the ting own tree farms. baler to compress the The cost of cutting a tree farm is a branches and prepare it tree is very similar to se- good idea. for the stand. lecting a precut tree, so The final flourish is tree farmers try to make done at home with the the event fun. Many offer refresh- removal of the twining. The tree exments for sale and a place to warm pands to its full stature and prepares up. There’s a sled to carry the cut tree for the next ritual: adornment. on, which often gets used to haul the To see a list of Christmas tree farms kids during the search for the perfect in Addison County go to the Vermont arboreal specimen.

Agency of Agriculture Web site: The act of sawing the trunk is not www.vermontagriculture.com/buylodifficult. Handsaws are provided but cal/buy/christmas_map.html. Always chain saws are discouraged for insur- call before going to a tree farm to ance reasons. At most farms a crew check their hours of operation.

the poetry of the late Vermont poet Herbert Elliott; and Billy Drislane’s “In the Deep Woods,” also newly composed for this program.

A selection of English medieval carols bridges the moods with rhythmic and robust lines yet a spareness in the harmonies. “When the Snows Fall in Winter” by the late songwriter Miles Graeme will

be followed by a set of traditional wassails, the old Cornish carol “Arise and Hail the Glorious Star” and William Knapp’s “Songs of the Angels at the Nativity.”

Admission is by suggested donation of $15, $10 for students/ low-income individuals. For more information, visit www.socialband. org, or call (802) 658-8488.

PAGE 20 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 21

PAGE 22 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide, Thursday, November 19, 2009

Holiday calendar

Slope sliders MARY JOHNSON CHILDREN’S Center students slide down a hill outside the Middlebury preschool after a fresh snow.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

(Continued from Page 12) and spun into yarn. Info: 247-5412 or www. mapleviewfarmalpacas.com.

Public skating in Middlebury. Sunday, Nov. 29, 1:15-2:45 p.m., Memorial Sports Center.

“The Music Man” on stage in Middlebury.

Sunday, Nov. 29, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater.

See details under Nov. 20 listing.

Memory Tree lighting in Brandon. Sunday, Nov. 29, 3:30 p.m., Central Park. Gather for singing and other holiday festivities before the tree is lit for the season at 4 p.m.

Nov

30

MONDAY

Auditions for “The Sound of Music” in Middlebury.

Monday, Nov. 30, 6-10 p.m., Mary Hogan School. Auditions for adult female roles. Song, dance and reading will be taught; no preparation is necessary.

Callbacks Wednesday, Dec. 2. Rehearsals begin mid-January. Performances in April and May 2010. Info: (802) 448-0516.

Flute ensemble concert in Middlebury.

Monday, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Free.

Info: 443-3168 or www.middlebury.edu/arts.

Dec

1

TUESDAY

Auditions for “The Sound of Music” in Middlebury.

Tuesday, Dec. 1, 6-10 p.m., Mary Hogan School. Auditions for adult male roles. Song, dance and reading will be taught; no preparation is necessary.

Callbacks Wednesday, Dec. 2. Rehearsals begin mid-January. Performances in April and May 2010. Info: (802) 448-0516.

“Turandot” encore broadcast in Middlebury.

Tuesday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater.

Encore presentation of the Metropolitan Opera’s HD broadcast. Tickets $22, $10 students, available at the THT box office, by phone at 382-9222 or online at www.townhalltheater.org.

Concert of students’ original music compositions in Middlebury. Tuesday, Dec. 1, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Students in Su Tan’s class,

Music 1, present their end-of-semester concert. Info: 443-3168 or www.middlebury. edu/arts.

Dec

2

WEDNESDAY

“Taking Flight” dance performance in Middlebury. Wednesday, Dec. 2, 4:30 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. A “lightly produced” showing of dance experiments by the young choreographers in Advanced Beginning Dance. Info: 443-3168 or www.middlebury.edu/arts.

Callbacks for “The Sound of Music in Middlebury.” Wednesday, Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m., Mary Hogan School. Callbacks for adult roles, if necessary.

Exhibit opening reception in Salisbury.

Wednesday, Dec. 2, 6:30-8 p.m., Salisbury Free Public Library. “Rural Vermont’s Activist Farmers: Photos and Stories,” featuring photographs and interviews telling the stories behind Rural Vermont’s farmer-activist board of directors. On exhibit through December. Info: www. ruralvermont.org or (802) 223-7222.

“Horses Like Lightning: Passage Through the Himalayas” presentation in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m., Ilsley Library.

Anthropologist Sienna Craig recounts her years spent living in the Himalayan kingdom of Mustang, Nepal. Free. Info: 388-4095.

Student chamber music concert in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Students in Greg Vitercik’s class, Performing Chamber Music, present their end-of-semester concert.

Info: 443-6433 or www.middlebury.edu/arts.

Fall jazz showcase in Middlebury. Wednesday, Dec. 2, 9 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Department of Music presentation. Free. Info: 443-6433 or www. middlebury.edu/arts.

Dec

3

THURSDAY

“Proyecto República Dominicana” dance concert and discussion. Thursday, Dec. 3, 4:30 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. An informal showing of the Dance Company of Middlebury,

in which they show and discuss a work they’ll present formally in Middlebury in January and later in the Dominican Republic. Info: 443-6433 or www.middlebury.edu/arts.

Twist O’ Wool Guild meeting in Middlebury.

Thursday, Dec. 3, 7 p.m., American Legion.

Yankee swap, spin-in, and general membership meeting. Info: 453-5960.

“Marty” on stage in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 3, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Hepburn Zoo. Paddy Chayefsky play performed by senior Mike Tierney. Also showing Dec. 4 and 5. Tickets $4. Info: 443-3168.

Dec

4

FRIDAY

“The Treasure of Family” two-day Christmas bazaar in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 4, 1-5 p.m., St. Ambrose Church, School St. Children’s activities, raffle, silent auction, attic treasures. Silver tea at 2:30 p.m., kids’ cookie decorating at 3 p.m. Info: 453-2488.

Gingerbread house display in Middlebury.

Friday, Dec. 4, 4-6 p.m., Vermont Folklife Center.

Opening of the gingerbread house contest exhibit. Continues through Dec. 21. Visit www.

vermontfolklifecenter.org for hours.

North Branch School auction, dinner and contradance in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 4, 5:30-10 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Ripton school fund-raiser with silent and live auction, chili dinner and contradance with Rachel Nevitt, caller. Tickets available through THT (382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org), at North Branch School or at Vermont Book Shop. Info: 388-3269 or www.northbranchschool.org.

Auditions for “The Sound of Music” in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 4, 6-10 p.m., Mary Hogan School. Auditions for children’s roles, ages 5 and up. Song, dance and reading will be taught; no preparation is necessary. Callbacks Saturday, Dec. 5. Rehearsals begin mid-January. Performances in April and May 2010. Info: (802) 448-0516.

Cool Yule kickoff in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m., Bristol bandstand. Along with the lighting of the bandstand and the Memory Tree, the Bristol Elementary and Mount Abe choruses will sing, and local merchants will hold a food drive.

Bring nonperishable food items to the green any time after 5 p.m.

Midd Winds in concert in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 4, 7-9 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. The Middlebury Community Wind Ensemble performs. Free. Info: 443-6433.

Swing dance in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 4, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater. The Middlebury College Swing Dance Club presents the East Bay Jazz Ensemble. Info: 382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org.

“Marty” on stage in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 4, 8 and 11 p.m., Middlebury College, Hepburn Zoo. Paddy Chayefsky play performed by senior Mike Tierney. Also showing Dec. 5. Tickets $4.

Info: 443-3168.

Dec

5

SATURDAY

Holiday stroll in Vergennes.

Saturday, Dec. 5, 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m., throughout Vergennes. A day’s worth of holiday events at the Bixby Library, Vergennes Elementary School, the Vergennes Opera House and elsewhere.

Breakfast, food drive, silent auction, a visit from Santa, Jon Gailmor, Maiden Vermont and more.

See story on Page 16. Info: 388-7951.

St. Paul’s Church Bazaar in Orwell. Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Orwell Town Hall. Baked goods, crafts, white elephant table, silent auction.

Winter farmers’ market in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. Dec. 5, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., American Flatbread in the Marble Works. Local vegetables, apples, cider, meats, eggs and crafts.

Every Saturday until Christmas.

Christmas bazaar in Bristol. Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., First Baptist Church. Baked goods, crafts, attic treasures, silent auction, homemade soups and sandwich luncheon. Info: 453-2551.

“The Treasure of Family” Christmas bazaar in Bristol. Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., St. (Continued on Page 24)

Addison Independentโ s Holiday Guide โ ข Thursday, November 19, 2009 โ PAGE 23

GREG'S

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PAGE 24 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide, Thursday, November 19, 2009

Holiday calendar Dec

11

FRIDAY

Middlebury Arts Walk. Friday, Dec. 11, 5-8 p.m., downtown Middlebury. Monthly arts walk that turns the Middlebury College Museum of Art and Middlebury stores, galleries and restaurants into one big exhibit.

Venues and artists listed at www.middleburyartswalk.com.

Chocolate Walk in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 11, 5-8 p.m., downtown. Bristol merchants will offer complimentary chocolate treats to customers.

Exhibit reception in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 11, 5-7 p.m., Art on Main. Meet the artists at a reception to celebrate sea-glass jewelry and sun catchers by Jennifer Wagner of Burlington and whimsical yet practical ceramics by Jennifer Ranz of Greensboro. On display through Dec. 31. Info: 453-4032 or info@artonmain.net.

Maiden Vermont concert in Middlebury.

Friday, Dec. 11, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater.

“Season of Joy,” with soloist Debra Lynn.

Info: 382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org.

Dec

12

Bunny hill A YOUNG SKIER learns on a small hill at the Snow Bowl in Hancock.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

(Continued from Page 22) Ambrose Church, School St. Children’s activities, raffle, silent auction, attic treasures. Kids’ craft table at 9 a.m., kids’ cookie decorating at 9 a.m., Santa’s visit at noon. Info: 453-2488.

Winter holiday craft fair in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Vergennes Elementary School. Crafts exhibits, refreshments and raffle to benefit the After-School Enrichment Program.

Admission: food shelf donation. Info: 877-3761.

A visit with Santa in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-noon, Middlebury Community House.

Offered by Better Middlebury Partnership.

Sheldon Museum open house in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Henry Sheldon Museum. Traditional decorations, activities, electric train, cookies, holiday raffle. Continues on Dec. 6. Free to county residents; donations welcome. Info: 388-2117.

Festival of Wreaths silent auction in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Middlebury College, Mahaney Center for the Arts. Benefit for the Mary Johnson Children’s Center. Brandon Brass performing 4-6 p.m. Free.

Annual jingle bell jaunt in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 5, registration from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Brandon Inn. Festive 1K race at noon for kids, community cheer and charitable giving.

Ages 3-12 may compete for prizes. Hot cocoa and caroling after the race. Registration: $3 per person, $8 per family. Must bring one canned-food item per person.

Callbacks for “The Sound of Music” in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 5, 2 p.m., Mary Hogan Elementary School. Callbacks for all roles, if needed.

Lighting of city park and memory tree in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 5, 5 p.m., Vergennes City Park. Lighting by Mayor Michael Daniels, caroling by Addison County Gospel Choir.

“Marty” on stage in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 5, 8 p.m., Middlebury College, Hepburn Zoo. Paddy Chayefsky play performed by senior Mike Tierney. Tickets $4. Info: 443-3168.

Live music in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 p.m., 51 Main. Dave Rempis on saxophone and

Frank Rosaly on drums. Info: www.go51main. com.

Dec

6

SUNDAY

Sheldon Museum open house in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 6, noon-4 p.m., Henry Sheldon Museum. Traditional decorations, activities, electric train, cookies, holiday raffle.

Free to county residents; donations welcome.

Info: 388-2117.

Holiday auction in Brandon. Sunday, Dec. 6, 3 p.m., Brandon Free Public Library. Over 50 local patrons and artists donate items for the event. Entertainment, refreshments, and door prizes. $1 door donation requested.

“Lessons & Carols for Advent and Christmas” at Middlebury College. Sunday, Dec. 6, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Mead Chapel. Choral music

by Middlebury College Choir, directed by Jeff Buettner. Donations collected for local charities. Info: 443-5626.

Lions Club memory tree lighting in Middlebury.

Sunday, Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m., Court Square.

Dec

7

MONDAY

Growing Money program in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 7, 1-3 p.m., State Department of Health Building, 700 Exchange St. Free three-part class on basic financial management.

Also runs Dec. 14 and 21. Info: (802) 862-1417, ext. 104 or growingmoney@cvoeo.org.

Dec

10

THURSDAY

Mount Abe Winter Concert in Bristol. Thursday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m., MAUHS. The school’s music ensembles will give their annual concert. Repeated Dec. 14.

SATURDAY

Farmers’ market holiday fair in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Brandon Inn. Lots of vendors, crafts, great ideas and more. Info: (802) 273-2655.

Winter farmers’ market in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 12, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., American Flatbread in the Marble Works. Local vegetables, apples, cider, meats, eggs and crafts. Every Saturday until Christmas.

A visit with Santa in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-noon, Maple Landmark Woodcraft, Exchange Street. Offered by Better Middlebury Partnership.

Reading of “A Christmas Memory” in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 12, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Larry Yarbrough reads from Truman Capote’s classic boyhood tale. Info: 382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org.

Chicken and biscuits dinner and Christmas party in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 12, 5-7 p.m., Neshobe Sportsman Club. Adults $9, children 5-10 $5, children under 5 free. Info: 247-6687.

Dec

13

SUNDAY

Festival singers in Brandon.

Sunday, Dec. 13, 3 p.m., Brandon Congregational Church. The music of Gene Childers. Free will offering.

Social Band in concert in Bristol. Sunday, Dec. 13, 4 p.m., First Baptist Church of Bristol. Burlington choral group presents a concert celebrating the release of their new CD, “Deep Midwinter: Songs from Winter’s Heart.” Admission by donation, $15 adults, $10 students/low-income. Info: www.socialband.org or (802) 658-8488.

Dec

14

MONDAY

Growing Money program in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 14, 1-3 p.m., VDH Building, 700 Exchange St. Second in a series of three classes on basic financial management. Also runs Dec. 21. Info: (802) 862-1417, ext. 104 or growingmoney@cvoeo.org.

Mount Abe Winter Concert in Bristol. Monday, Dec. 14, 4 p.m., MAUHS. The school’s music ensembles will give an encore of their Dec. 10 concert.

Dec

17

THURSDAY

“African Djolie: A West African Village Holiday” concert in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 17, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Guinean drummer and dancer Simbo, now living in

Bristol, pulls together performers from all over to present an authentic African celebration.

Info: 382-9222.

Dec

18

FRIDAY

Caroling in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 18, 6-8 p.m., downtown. Various groups will roam through the town singing songs of the season.

“Scrooge” screening in Vergennes. Friday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House.

As part of the Friday Night Flicks series, the VOH presents the 1970 holiday musical, starring Albert Phinney. Tickets at the door $5, with a $5 discount for families of four. Info: www. vergennesoperahouse.org or 877-6787.

Big Band Christmas Ball in Middlebury.

Friday, Dec. 18, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Joe Levesque’s awesome big band returns for a holiday dance. Info: 382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org.

Dec

19

SATURDAY

Winter farmers’ market in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 19, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., American Flatbread in the Marble Works.

Local vegetables, apples, cider, meats, eggs and crafts. Every Saturday until Christmas.

A visit with Santa in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 19, 10 a.m.-noon, Danforth Pewterers, Seymour Street. Offered by Better Middlebury Partnership.

“Les Contes d’Hoffmann” live HD broadcast in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 19, 1 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Metropolitan Opera “Live in HD” presentation of this Offenbach opera. Tickets $22, $10 students, available at the THT box office, by phone at 382-9222 or online at www. townhalltheater.org.

The Bluegrass Gospel Project in concert in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House. Six of the Northeast’s finest bluegrass, country and folk musicians present a concert of classic and original tunes in the American bluegrass tradition. Tickets $15 adults, $12.50 seniors and students, free for children under 12. Info: www.vergennesoperahouse.org or 877-6787.

Dec

20

SUNDAY

Open reading of Handel’s “Messiah” in Middlebury.

Sunday, Dec. 20, 2 p.m., Middlebury Congregational Church.

Community sing-along for singers and instrumentalists, directed by Jeff Rehbach. $5 contribution requested. Information: 443-5811.

Encore presentation of “Les Contes d’Hoffmann” in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 20, 3 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Encore presentation of the Metropolitan Opera’s Dec. 19 live broadcast. Tickets $22, $10 students, available at the THT box office, by phone at 382-9222 or online at www.townhalltheater.org.

Dec

21

MONDAY

Growing Money program in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 21, 1-3 p.m., VDH Building, 700 Exchange St. Third in a series of three classes on basic financial management. Info: (802) 862-1417, ext. 104 or growingmoney@cvoeo. org.

Dec

31

THURSDAY

Bristol Best Night. Thursday, Dec. 31, 3:30-10 p.m., Holley Hall, First Baptist Church and Walkover Gallery. Find schedule of the area’s most talented performers at downtown stores or visit www.midvermont.com.

Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide, Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 25

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PAGE 26 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009

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Giving back VERGENNES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL students walk back from the grocery store after buying food for the local food shelf.

Wreaths

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(Continued from Page 4) the Yankees one.

“The Red Sox wreath has been very popular, but we decided this year we had to get a little competition,” Snyder said.

Returning favorites will be the Late Show with David Letterman wreath, and, of course, the ski wreaths.

As usual, the atrium of the Center for the Arts will be decorated not only with the approximately 150 wreaths, but also Christmas trees with lights. The Brandon Brass Ensemble will perform holiday tunes from 4-6 p.m.

In addition to the wreaths, the 18th annual Festival of Wreaths will feature a raffle with three great prizes: a Vermont Teddy Bear, a framed color print by local photographer Pam Quinn, and a basket full of donated Vermontmade products.

Raffle tickets are available at Mary Johnson Children’s Center and at the festival. All funds

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

raised help fund programs and the operating budget at the center, which provides child care for many Addison County families in a wide range of income levels.

The 38-year-old Mary Johnson Children’s Center, the oldest daycare center in Vermont, has earned a special place in the community.

Around half of the center’s children come from low-income families. Many of the parents are in job training programs or school that they would find difficult to complete if they couldn’t find affordable, quality day care.

The center operates after-school programs in six Addison County communities and has therapeutic child care for children who need early mental health intervention.

The festival provides inspiration for home decorators, holiday shoppers and anyone needing an infusion of Christmas spirit.

It’s free and open to the public. For more information call 388-2853.

Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009 — PAGE 27

Believe in the Magic!

Shop & dine locally.

•spentBelieve that when you buy locally, a dollar in your community turns over four or more times, keeping jobs in town and stores thriving.

THE VERMONT FOLKLIFE Center in Middlebury hosts a gingerbread house competition that is open to professionals and amateurs of all ages.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Gingerbread houses on view at Folklife Center competition MIDDLEBURY — It’s gingerbread time again!

The Vermont Folklife Center will display the entries in its 11th annual Gingerbread House Competition in the center’s gallery at 88 Main St. in Middlebury from Dec. 4 to Dec. 21.

As is outlined in the contest rules, the houses must be dwellings or other architectural structures — historic or imaginary — and all components except the base must be edible, including the “glue.” Although the base cannot exceed 12-by-16 inches, entrants in past years have created gingerbread houses that appear quite large and comfortable for their imaginary occupants.

Last year showcased 55 unusual, whimsical, and delicious culinary entries from people of all ages.

Included was an incredible range of interpretations of the term “gingerbread house,” including such themes as gingerbread barns, tents, space ships, pickup trucks — and even an aquarium with sheets of clear sugar as the glass.

The hard work and creative energy is evident in each entry, and is a great source of joy and excitement to the nearly 4,000 visitors to this an-

nual exhibit.

Contestants enter one of six categories: professional, amateur, children, family 12 years old and up, family 11 years old and younger, and organization. The Folklife Center’s Gingerbread House Competition has become a seasonal tradition for young and old visitors to see the houses on display and participate by voting for the People’s Choice winner.

Gingerbread houses date back to the 11th century when the ginger spice was brought back from the Middle East.

Such houses became popular in Germany, particularly in Nuremburg, which became known as the gingerbread capital of the world.

Entry forms are available online at www.vermontfolklifecenter.org. They are due back to the center by Nov. 25. The actual submissions must be delivered on Dec. 2 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The Dec. 4 opening reception is from 4-6 p.m. The gallery is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m-5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information or for a group visit, call 388-4964.

•madeBelieve that if we all just the individual choice to support area

businesses first — rather than rushing out of town to shop at the Big Box stores or specialty shops — that the collective impact would be enormously beneficial.

• Believe

that almost everything you need or want can be found locally, if you’ll just take the time to visit local businesses first.

• Believe

that when you support local businesses, they in turn support high school sports teams, Yearbooks, Boy & Girl Scouts, the United Way, hockey clubs, 4-H clubs, local theater, and hundreds of causes and events throughout the year.

Without the businesses’ support, many of these activities wouldn’t be possible.

• Believe

that in supporting each other, we all become stronger — and happier.

Look through the many Shop & Dine Local ads in upcoming issues of the Addison Independent, gather your ideas and spend a few days shopping with your friends and neighbors. We believe you’ll find a treasure trove of gifts, and feel that true Christmas Cheer that comes from supporting those you know.

PAGE 28 — Addison Independent’s Holiday Guide • Thursday, November 19, 2009