The Charlotte News | October 22, 2015 by The Charlotte News

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Volume lVIII Number 7

The VoIce of The TowN

Thursday, ocTober 22, 2015

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Tractor Factor

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Charter vote delayed 1 New solar array on Church Hill 1 Act 46 in focus 8 Win prizes in our fall photo contest 19 Brought to you free through the generous support of our Donors, Advertisers and Volunteers.

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Vol. 58, no. 7 October 22, 2015

Charlotte News Vermont’s oldest nonprofit community newspaper, bringing you local news and views since 1958

Selectboard votes to delay vote on charter eleanor russell CoNTrIBuTor

n october 7 the Selectboard voted unanimously to delay an australian ballot vote on the proposed town charter to Town Meeting Day in March. at an earlier meeting the board had voted to hold the charter vote on November 3. The reconsideration resulted from a request from Selectboard member Matt Krasnow, who said that, upon reflection, he believes a vote on Town Meeting Day would draw a larger turnout than would occur on the November date. other Selectboard members agreed that it would be desirable to attract as many voters as possible for this important vote. Carrie Spear felt there is no reason to rush this decision. Jacob Spell indicated the need to understand the implications of the town having a charter. The basic issue relates to an advisory motion, approved at the March 2015 Town Meeting, that the Selectboard look into obtaining a charter for the town that would allow for greater voter participation in deciding the town budget. Town records show that up to 500 townspeople attend

MonuMental MoVeS

Town Meeting whereas up to 1800 participate in australian ballot voting. The proposed new two-stage process would provide the opportunity for townspeople to discuss, amend and approve a budget at Town Meeting, as is done at present. The budget thus approved would be binding and would be voted on town-wide by australian ballot no less than 20 days later (thus allowing for the vote to be warned and ballots printed). Vermont law requires that town budgets be voted on at Town Meeting. however, a town charter that specifically permits the proposed change would eliminate this problem. according to the Town Meeting Solutions Committee, the advantage of the two-stage process is that it retains the value of discussion and amendment of the budget at Town Meeting but provides a greater representation of townspeople to decide the final vote. Townspeople have expressed concern that if the vote were to be only by australian ballot, as is the school budget vote, and not an item at Town Meeting, the ability to discuss

alex Bunten The CharloTTe NewS

PHOTO: ALEX BUNTEN

Pies for change Volunteers at the CCC sell pies to fund solar array at church Geeda Searfoorce The CharloTTe NewS

n a recent wednesday afternoon, in the sunlit room just outside the Charlotte Congregational Church’s kitchen, Martha Barton-rivera and her husband, Joe rivera, boxed up pies that would be available for sale to the public later that day, all to benefit the church and area nonprofits. The couple has been baking pies at CCC for seven years, since the fall fundraising program started. as part of a 43-person

Solar powered, mission-driven

New solar arrays at Charlotte Congregational Church bring see DelayeD Vote, page 4 light to those in need and to the environment

Ambassadorial jazz at home

Local filmmaker Ken French documents an exchange of sister city jazz musicians in his new film, Jazz Ambassadors.

A monument commemorating Charlotters who served in World War II made the trek from Charlotte Central School to the Town Green on Oct. 12, thanks to many dedicated community members, in time for a Veterans’ Day ceremony in November. Look for the monument story in the next issue of The Charlotte News. PHOTO: DON LOCKHART

n october 9, Charlotter Ken French premiered his new documentary film, Jazz ambassadors, to a small group of locals in the common house at Ten Stones community. The film followed one exchange of jazz musicians through the Burlington-Yaroslavl Sister City program over the past year—eight 02 went to Yaroslavl, russia, in March to perform at the biannual festival “Jazz over the Volga,” and overdrive Blues Band came in June to play at the “Burlington Discover see Jazz, page 5

volunteer corps led by the indefatigable Martha Perkins, they wax lyrical about the effect their participation has had on them and the transformative potential it has for the community. “You see all sorts of people sitting next to you at church, and then you come here and get to spend time together baking,” says Barton-rivera, who has been coming to CCC for 56 years. “It’s really special.” But the volunteers who arrive each week—for baking on wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or for selling on wednesdays and Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m.—aren’t just CCC attendees. Charlotters who want to pitch in, meet others, and work for a local cause, show up to “do good,” in Bartonrivera’s words. “It’s a wonderful way to get to know your community.” Pam Darling, a staunch partner to Perkins during the last two years of the pie-selling endeavor, helps out when she see Pie, page 7

Geeda Searfoorce The CharloTTe NewS

fter worship services at the Charlotte Congregational Church on Sunday morning, october 18, a hale and hearty group gathered near the parsonage for the dedication of a new solar panel project that carries the church’s mission-driven efforts forward into the larger community—for generations to come. reverend Susan Cooke Kittredge, pastor at CCC, stood with church members, supporters, donors and grantors to celebrate the culmination of the yearlong project. “It was beautiful to meet, in such crisp, sunny weather, with people who care deeply for the community and the environment,” she said. The group warmed themselves around a small fire and listened to speeches and

a poem written in honor of the event. Dottie Schnure, a spokesperson for Green Mountain Power (GMP), was on hand to commemorate the project’s dedication. The church received notice in November 2014 that it had been granted $20,000 through GMP for nonprofit solar projects. Supplemented by an additional $20,000 in donations to the church’s solar fund, church staff proceeded with a competitive bid and reviewed four proposals. all were contractors vetted as renewable energy Vermont Solar Partners as required for the GMP grant. after staff reviewed various plans for installation on the vestry roof and for freestanding solar trackers, they concluded that using set arrays on the ground between the vestry and parsonage made more sense economically and aesthetically. In order to receive the GMP grant, the deadline to complete the installation was august 2015. The two ground-mounted 23,100-watt solar arrays, which consist of 84 panels, are located just east of the church. The arrays should produce 28,000 kwh per see Solar, page 6

(From left) Volunteers Pam Darling, Martha Barton-Rivera, Joe Rivera and Martha Perkins take a break from pie-baking at the Charlotte Congregational Church. Proceeds from the annual pie sales go toward area nonprofits and, this year, outfitting the church with a new photovoltaic solar system. PHOTO: GEEDA SEARFOORCE

2 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Voices The Charlotte News

Alex Bunten EDITOR IN CHIEF

Making waves at the parade When I lived in Russia, my mother sent me a black and white postcard of the East Charlotte Tractor Parade. “See what you’re missing!” she wrote on it. Well, this year, at the 15th annual parade on October 11, I found out. I volunteered my brother Craig to drive my father’s early 1980s Kubota 1720, which he assured me was in fighting-fit shape. She likely hadn’t done much more than 800 RPM under my father’s direction—he’d take her slow and steady from the woodpile to the house or occasionally drag a befallen log out of the woods—but she was ready, Craig said. Ahyut. In preparation for the trip, and to make it the first official participatory delegation from The Charlotte News, Craig and I strapped The Charlotte News banner to the bucket, ready to make a triumphant entrance into Baptist Corners as the one true “Voice of the Town.” I had also commandeered a smattering of Charlotte News swag—hats and magnets—to be shared with our adoring fans. It was all starting to take shape in my head. It was going to be great. Craig, never one for the public eye, fashioned a Bunten-size pumpkin helmet to take on the persona of the infamous Pumpkin Man. (Background: At the traditional CCS Halloween parade, Pumpkin Man comes out of the woods for a spooky moment before going back to his ancestral home on Pease Mountain.) So off we went with Pumpkin Man at the wheel. My girlfriend, Marissa, and I stood on a brush hog on the back, bumbling through Quinlan Bridge, up the S-curve, past Robert Marble bucking up his logs. Fuller Mountain and Philo popped from the horizon like brush fires with a mackerel sky smoldering above them. Camel’s Hump made an occasional

appearance over the layers of mountainous understory. Marissa and I practiced our “queen’s wave” on a few runners who kindly reciprocated. We were ready as we’d ever be. At about 11:50 a.m. we turned up Morningside Drive at the Nichols Farm and took our place on the staging ground. We caught some lunch, thankfully provided by the Grange, and then took to looking around. Lindsay Longe and Chris Mack of Charlotte were busy setting up a hay wagon for passengers young and old. Dale Knowles, owner of Mow! Mow! Mow!, was hanging around a John Deere 8400 he said he’d borrowed from the Mack Farm. His wife was in the cabin soaking up the scene with her dog. A few young bucks standing around a hard-ridden 1972 Farmall 656 (gas) in beat-up Carhartt suits reminded me of a time gone by. If it wasn’t for the fancy new tractor in the background or the baseball hats and sunglasses, the picture could have been from the 1940s. Jared Hubbell (New Haven), Josh Parks (New Haven), Colby Trudeau (Essex), and Jon Birkett (Ferrisburgh) said they’d been coming for about four to five years. What brings them back? They get to see people they don’t usually see. Bill Schubart added a local celebrity flair to the occasion. He had his whole family there, including a steadfast 1972 John Deere 2240 diesel. “What I love is that there’s no money in this,” Schubart said. “It’s just people and community.” Scott Wilson from Heavenly Honey Apiaries had a display of beekeeping set up behind his lawn mower at the front of the staging area. He mused on how the occasion wouldn’t be possible without bees but also how the large-scale

News from The News Another Outwater intern onboard We here at The Charlotte News are thrilled to welcome our newest addition: Kali Adams from Shelburne, a part-time homeschooler and freshman at CVU. A strong writer, passionate researcher, and avid history buff, Kali delights in immersing herself in topics and drawing connections between the ideas she unearths. As The News’s latest 2015 Outwater Intern, Kali is ready to dive in to the archive, learn more about the Charlotte community and strengthen her journalism skills. Her enthusiasm, intelligence, inquisitiveness and warmth are inspirational and we look forward to the fruitful work ahead with Kali on board. Welcome!

Kali Adams

production of honey in Vermont wouldn’t be possible without farm crops. Walter Welch of Shoreham and Dennis Benoit of Addison shot the breeze next to their 1956 Allis Chalmers D-14 with a modified Buick engine in it. They’d been coming for four years now. “It’s just a great community,” Benoit said. Nicoli Pughe, an 8th grader at CCS, and his dad, Charlie Pughe, were ready at the wheel of a stout, red, Italian Antonio Carraro tractor. They’d been coming for four years and always looked forward to seeing the community out in the town. As I finished speaking with Nicoli, an excited bluster of diesel and gas fumes started to build in the field. There wasn’t much of a call to arms (maybe next year they should start the occasion with some bagpipes?), but everyone knew it was time to start the parade. As we rolled back across Morningside Drive, every tractor made a different sputtering sound, cranking over the best it could for its age. A breeze was up to move the fumes and shake the wild autumn leaves. The Charlotte News banner was waving out on the bucket, and we were ready to shovel in some community fun. Just in case, Marissa and I put our queen’s wave to the test again, and Matt Krasnow reassured us it was working. It was all coming together. Now for that entrance into Baptist Corners. As we pulled over the last little incline onto Spear Street, a few spotty crowds cheered and waved and took pictures. We smiled like fools and tried to act natural. Postcard perfect, right? Just then, a wild squeal started from the engine. I jumped off and saw fluid dripping from under the radiator. It looked suspiciously like coolant. The squeal was a scream now and folks were staring. Pumpkin Man pulled the Kubota over and shut it down. “It’s not a parade unless someone breaks down!” yelled Jon Birkett as he passed. Disheartened but not distraught, we opened her up and confirmed the fan belt bearing or water pump was toast. Perfect timing. This wasn’t in the postcard. But like hell were we going to give up now. Pumpkin Man had connections with Matt from Twin Oaks Farm, and he let us all hitch a ride on his hay wagon. For better or worse, it just goes to show that pictures (and postcards) are worth a thousand words. And, of course, that grandiose entrances often don’t go as planned. We tried. And we’ll surely be back next year. A big thank you to Carrie and all who put this event together. What a wonderful community gathering. Note: Most folks mentioned in this editorial appear in our Tractor Parade spread on pages 10-11.

The Charlotte News is a nonprofit community-based newspaper dedicated to informing townspeople of current events and issues. It serves as a forum for the free exchange of views of town residents and celebrates the people, places and happenings that make the Town of Charlotte unique. Contributions in the form of articles, press releases and photographs pertaining to Charlotterelated people and events are accepted and encouraged from all townspeople and interested individuals. For submission guidelines and deadlines, please visit our website or contact the editor at news@charlottenewsvt.com. The Charlotte News is published in Charlotte by The Charlotte News, Inc., a Vermont domestic 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation. Distribution is made every other Thursday to all households and businesses in Charlotte and to more than 50 outlets in Shelburne, Hinesburg, North Ferrisburgh, Ferrisburgh, Vergennes and Burlington. It relies on the generous financial contributions of its readers, subscriptions and advertising revenue to sustain its operations.

Editorial Staff news@thecharlottenews.org 802-425-4949

Editor in chief: Alex Bunten Assistant editor: Geeda Searfoorce Contributing editors: Edd Merritt, Ruah Swennerfelt Copy editors: Beth Merritt, Leslie Botjer, Vince Crockenberg Outwater intern: Kali Adams

BuSinESS Staff ads@thecharlottenews.org 802-343-0279

Business manager: Shanley Hinge Ad managers: Monica Marshall Circulation group: Valerie Lebensohn

Board MEMBErS Co-president: Tom O’Brien Co-president: Vince Crockenberg Secretary: John Hammer Board members: Tim Halverson, Carol Hanley, Michael Haulenbeek, Patrice Machavern, Gay Regan, Louisa Schibli

contriButorS Eleanor Russell Chloe Silverman Courtney McDermott

Charlotte Steria Elizabeth Bassett Jasmin Townsend-Ng

Kerrie Pughe Margaret Woodruff Mary Recchia Nicole Conley Rob Mullin Stella Martenis

Jorden Blucher

on thE covEr

Pumpkin Man made a rare appearance at the East Charlotte Tractor Parade. He’ll be back for Halloween, too, we’re told. The little man at the wheel is Ashley Clark’s son, who is a third generation float rider. Ashley has been coming to the parade since it started in 2000.

Photos: Alex Bunten & Ashley ClArk

nExt iSSuE dEadlinES

Next publication date: Thursday, Nov. 5 Contributions deadline: Monday, Oct. 27 by 5 p.m. Advertising deadline: Friday, Oct. 30 by 5 p.m. Letters due: Monday, Nov. 2 by 10 a.m.

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Send address changes to: The Charlotte News P.O. Box 251 Charlotte, VT 05445 Telephone: 802-425-4949 Circulation: 3,000 copies per issue. Copyright © 2015 The Charlotte News, Inc. Printed by: Upper Valley Press

The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 3

Voices Mt. Philo end-of-season update

Running Up and Down Chloe Silverman, Grade 6 Running Up and Running down. It might rain, and steam might rise up from the ground. It might heat up and you might run away from it like fire but you’ll just be Running Up, and Running Down, running over tripping roots and ankle-turning ground. Somewhere far ahead cowbells clang their song, but at the moment you are trying to keep on running fast, faster than you can. You pass runners, you wish them luck, but really there’s nothing you can do, for it seems like it’s only you, Running Up and Running down.

Words That Hurt Courtney McDermott, Grade 7 Say it like you mean it I know you don’t but maybe you do. Say it like you hate me like you want to hurt me but why? Say it like I deserve it, because I’m different. Because I’m too scared to defend myself. What did I do to you? What did I say? Is it just because I’m here? Because I’m the only one? Like needles in my skin, it hits me like a million knives like nails on a chalkboard leaves a hollow ringing in my ears. On the inside, I know, you feel, you know this is wrong. I don’t deserve these words these words meant to kill on the inside.

What is it? Charlotte Steria, Grade 6 I was home alone; the power was out. It was dark. I couldn’t see. I was scared. I heard a noise. I have no pets, nothing else in the house that would make noise. I ran outside; it was dark; the trees behind my house were glowing RED. Why RED, out of all colors at this time why RED?

I ran back inside. The noise was getting louder and LOUDER. I ran upstairs and heard the stairs creak on my third stair of fifteen stairs. I counted as it came up the stairs: 5,7,8,10,13. I tiptoed into my bathroom and locked the door. It was on the fifteenth step, and now I could hear it walking down the hall. It was saying my name. I opened the door, and it was standing right in front of me. The power came on. I screamed.

The Town Forests Jasmin Townsend-Ng, Grade 6 Our town forests of Vermont are one of a kind amusements that are free to all the public. Because of this, they bring us together to explore the forest around us. The forest has so many secrets, so when we try to solve the forests’ puzzles of life, there will always be greater and bigger discoveries to behold. Think twice about cutting them down and bringing the forests of Vermont down to their last breath, because if you do, you will never see the beauty in them ever again. It would be a dead wasteland, dug out and bare where nothing thrives. We as humans have all the power to protect or destroy them as they are today, so make the decision. But have you ever stopped to think and wonder what Vermont would look like without trees? It wouldn’t look the same. So unplug from all devices, grab your family and come see the great forests.

The Man Doomed to Live Stella Martenis, Grade 7 I saw that man screaming, though he made no noise. It was as if no one saw him but me. That phantom man, that phantom bridge, they still haunt me. Today I close my eyes and I see the silent scream, the scream that someday I will hear, the scream of death. I will remember that day, the day that I saw it, the day that I dreamt it. That image haunts my mind, makes me whisper, who’s there? in the night. The voice makes me scared of those nonexistent monsters under the bed. A closet of fear, a night of despair, a day of hatred, something whispered behind closed doors in the cloak of night. Speckled by stars of hope, the sole lights in the darkness of that fear, the fear is that of the man who is doomed to live.

All opinions expressed in the Voices section are those of the writers and not of The Charlotte News, which is published as an independent, nonprofit, non-biased community service and forum.

Another season has ended for Mount Philo State Park. After a rainy June the summer was filled with sunshine and smiles. Once again, over 35,000 visitors came through the gates from both far and near this season to visit. And, of course, we had our local walkers and hikers, two-legged and four-legged, enjoying the mountain on a regular basis and appreciating this incredible resource. We had over 35 weddings here this year, as well as many family reunions, retirement parties, birthday parties, life celebrations, work retreats and graduation parties. Many special memories were born this year on top of our special “island in the sky.” Several Adirondack chairs and benches were generously donated to commemorate loved ones and for the enjoyment of other visitors. Mt. Philo is indeed a special place for many, many people. We are very grateful to be part of this beautiful and vibrant community. Our gates closed for the season on October 12. As always, our trails and the mountain road are accessible by foot after that date. All facilities, however, including bathrooms and water fountains, will be closed. We have wonderful winter volunteers

who have graciously offered to maintain the doggie-pot stations. Please help them by bagging and properly disposing of pet waste. Please remember that many people, especially children, are afraid of dogs. Responsible dog-owner etiquette should be followed, especially if you have your dog off leash. When dog owners meet other trail/road users, please call your dog back to you and yield the right of way. If another owner has a dog on a leash, please be respectful and sit/stay your dog until that owner and dog pass. Do not allow your loose dog to approach a leashed dog unless permission is given first. Be respectful and consider yourself a dog ambassador. We hope that you continue to enjoy Mount Philo as the seasons change. We ask of those who frequently use the mountain to be our eyes and ears with respect to break-ins and vandalism. If you see anything out of the ordinary, please take note and report it to the local police department immediately. Since the lower parking lot will not be attended, don’t leave valuables in your car. Even if your car is locked, the tendency is to break the windows. We look forward to seeing you in the spring. John and Kim Frigault Mt. Philo State Park

Coming soon... The Charlotte News is excited to present an advice column helmed by Courage Turner Jones, grandmother, retired nurse and unshakable champion of the human spirit. “I look forward to serving the community with open ears and heart, and with a perspective that can help people reflect on their lives so they can live more fully with every passing day. Be brave, beloveds, and somehow we’ll all make it!” People ages five to 500 are encouraged to send their questions via email to dearcourage@thecharlottenews.org or via good old-fashioned post to Dear Courage c/o The Charlotte News, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS Sept. 14. Otto Engelberth to Peter Schubart, 5.06 acres with dwelling, 152 East Thompson’s Point Road, $175,000. Sept. 21. David and Elizabeth Van Buskirk to Eric and Colleen Boyce, 4.7 acres with dwelling, 406 Mountains Edge Road, $520,000.

Sept. 23. Marilyn K. Richardson Family Trust to David Kenyon and Emily Pendergraft, 0.27 acre with dwelling, 2789 Greenbush Road, $231,770. Sept. 28. John and Linda Lazarowski to Leslie Anderson Living Trust, 1.1 acres with dwelling, 142 Mount Philo Road, $243,500. Sept. 28. Nelson and Doris Claflin to Mary L. Holmes Living Trust, Katherine A. Snead, trustee, 5 acres with dwelling, 6048 Mount Philo Road, $500,000. Sept. 30. Thomas and Rhonda Gadhue to Turtle Moon LLC, 1 acre with seasonal dwelling, 350 Turtle Moon Road, $425,000.

Sept. 21. Robert and Irene Fischer to Nicholas and Caitlyn Campbell, 5.5 acres with dwelling, 250 Pease Mountain Road, $690,000.

OctOber 14. Alan and Karen Jordan to Richard and Juliette Latimer, 2.56 acres with dwelling, 244 Upper Meadow Lane, $492,500.

4 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

MCI drill Rob Mullin ContRibutoR

on September 23, Charlotte Fire & Rescue held a simulated mass-casualty drill at the Charlotte Fire & Rescue

station. A mass-casualty incident is one that requires more resources than initially dispatched utilizing mutual-aid agencies. the responding fire agencies included Charlotte Fire Department and Hinesburg Fire Department. the responding EMS agencies included Charlotte Rescue, Shelburne Rescue, uVM Rescue and the burlington Fire Department. the drill involved a tour bus that had driven up on the trunk and roof of an occupied vehicle and a car that had rolled over onto another vehicle trying to avoid the tour bus. the vehicles had mannequin victims as well as live victims, and the

bus had all live victims. the total count of victims was 21. Charlotte Rescue was the first to arrive and was faced with walking wounded victims coming up to them as well as entrapped victims and victims hanging out of the bus. Charlotte Rescue started triaging (sorting according to injury) the victims and called for more help. Charlotte Fire showed up and assumed command of the incident. All the victims in the cars were entrapped and required various stages of extrication. the victims on the bus were also injured, and some were also entrapped and required extrication. All the victims were removed from the vehicles and brought to a treatment area, where they were treated according to their injuries until they were transported to the simulated hospital. All victims were

removed from the scene in approximately 90 minutes with the four ambulances transporting them. Some of the victims were moulaged to simulate real injuries, adding some realism to the incident. A debriefing was held immediately following the exercise to discuss the good and bad points of the exercise and to see what could have been done differently or better to change the outcome. As you can see from last week’s train derailment, this was a valuable exercise for all involved, simulating a high-risk, low-frequency event that could happen in Charlotte or surrounding communities. Personnel were put in positions that they would not normally be put in, and all persevered.

Social Security Claiming Strategies Make the most of your SS benefits When and how to collect Social Security is on everyone’s minds, and you need important information to make decisions about what’s best for you. Come to an educational presentation by Ryan McKee of Fidelity Investments, who speaks to audiences around New England about this topic. You’re cordially invited to Vermont National Country Club on November 18th. at 6:30 PM. The presentation will be limited to a small group, so RSVP to the Boucher Investment Group of Wells Fargo Advisors at 802-864-2668 or email us at reginald.boucher@wfadvisors.com or ronald.a. boucher@wfadvisors.com. Besides explaining Social Security filing options, we’ll be helping participants complete a “Social Security 360 Analyzer” questionnaire. This form is then submitted to the “Income Planning Team” at Nationwide to help give you the information you need to make suitable Social Security filing decisions. This event is sponsored and financially supported by Nationwide Insurance Company and Fidelity. Investment and Insurance Products: „NOT FDIC Insured „NO Bank Guarantee

MAY Lose

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(Top left) First responders to the MCI drill were faced with casualties in all positions. (Top right) Fire and Rescue crew works to help someone in an overturned car. (Bottom left) The EMS treatment area. (Bottom right) The Incident Commander, EMS Control and Safety Officer discuss the operation. PHOTOS: RYAN DONNELLY

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

Vote DelayeD

continued from page 1

and adjust the budget would be lost and attendance would undoubtedly drop at our highly valued and important town Meeting. Another concern of the Selectboard was that townspeople do not understand why the town would need a charter and more time for education about the charter is necessary. Attendees at the meeting emphasized that all the charter does is allow the new voting process. it does not affect town government in any other way. Almost all of the meeting attendees also voiced a desire not to delay the vote, arguing that there has been ample discussion at two town meetings, that many people are

It’s our BIRTHDAY!! come celebrate with us!

aware of the issue and that there is time for education through newspaper articles and letters and the town Meeting Solutions Committee website. Several attendees voiced their dismay that their ability to vote on the town budget would be delayed by at least another year. Concern was also expressed that the new Selectboard does not fully understand this issue nor the effort expended over the past two years in developing this two-stage approach. nevertheless the Selectboard voted 5-0 to delay the vote, which will now be held by Australian ballot on town Meeting Day, March 3, 2016, thus preventing an Australian ballot on the town budget until March, 2017 or perhaps 2018, depending on how fast the State Legislature approves the charter request. there will be a public hearing concerning the charter on october 26.

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The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 5

Selectboard report John Hammer THe CHarloTTe NewS

The Charlotte Selectboard’s meeting of october 19 began at 4 p.m. with a performance evaluation of Health officer/ animal Control officer, Cali Griswold, followed by a 6 p.m. site visit to 1000 Guinea road. when the business part of the session was opened at 7 p.m., all were already in place except Matt Krasnow, who was on vacation. while the meeting lasted until almost 9:30 p.m., there were not many contentious issues to be decided. The issue that generated the most heat was a draft right of way ordinance that resurrected and produced revisions to a document first drafted, but not enacted, more than two years ago. The discussions over farmland runoff on east Thompson’s Point road had precipitated discussion on how the town should govern waters entering the town’s ditching and drainage system. with forthcoming state regulations and guidance arising from House Bill 35, which governs waters entering lake Champlain in mind, the Selectboard decided to wait until more information has been made available from the State. (bit.ly/1GQbNUl) In a related action, Jeannine McCrumb, the Town Planner, was appointed as the town representative to the new regional Clean water advisory Committee. The committee has been set up by the Chittenden County regional Planning Commission to assist “with basin planning and surface water management” (See pages 13 and 14 of the document found at bit.ly/1GQcFc0). Marty Illick, executive director of the lewis Creek association, was appointed alternate. There was little discussion in adopting the Policy on Fraud and Deceitful acts that is part of the package being enacted as the result of last year’s auditor’s report. The document had been reviewed by the auditors, the Selectboard in august and finally by the Town attorney before passage at this meeting. The town party celebrating the town’s volunteers will be held at the Vergennes opera House this year on Saturday, December 19. The opera House meets the criteria of being the closest venue that met the town’s stringent budget requirements. The old lantern did not respond to a request for bid. The catering contract for

linens, flatware, china and food was won by the SoDeXo Corporation. Hours for the party are planned to be between 6:30 and 8:00 p.m. access for disabled persons is in the building’s rear. In other contract actions, Patterson Fuels and CSI Corporation were awarded contracts to cover the preventative maintenance needs for HVaC systems in town buildings. This is a renewal of their previous three-year-old agreements and their bid this year is level with the last contracts. Three road actions were completed at this meeting. an agreement was approved wherein renald and agnes lussier were granted permission to install underground utilities within the Carpenter road right of way. Then the Tegatz Family Trust received a Highway access Permit for access to 1000 Guinea with its proposed residential building site. Finally, there was discussion with no final action on improving safety along the stretch of Ferry road between the railroad and lake road. a number of accidents have raised a level of concern and Dean Bloch was tasked to investigate what opportunities were available for engineering studies along that stretch. lastly, The Town Planner/Zoning administrator requested the Selectboard toassign signature authority for “state applications from Thompson’s Point leaseholders on the Town’s behalf.” The establishment of new seawalls and other structures along the shoreline should be discussed in terms of necessity by the Town.” The motion passed authorizes “the Selectboard Chair or Town administrator to sign town and state permit application forms on behalf of the property owner (the Town) for property on Thompson’s Point, limited to projects involving camp buildings and/or replacement of existing structures including docks, stairs and seawalls.” In an “emergency action” necessitated by an immediate deadline, the Selectboard approved a draft filing to the Public Service Board making complaints about non-compliance in the landscaping for the Hinesburg road solar farm. The filing, drafted by Charlie Pughe, will be reviewed by legal counsel before submission on october 23. The next Selectboard meeting will be held on october 26. The Municipal Charter will be discussed in what is a second required public hearing.

Fall backward! Don’t forget to set your clocks back ONE hour on November 1.

Jazz

continued from page 1

Jazz Festival.” The film jumps between russia and Vermont, capturing both the musical exchange and the varied cultural views of the participants. according to French, the goal of the 30-minute documentary is to convey the mutual respect, understanding and joy experienced on both sides of the recognize that we’re individuals and what sister-city cultural exchange. our governments do doesn’t necessarily Sergey Ushakov, a soundman for reflect the people.” Nectar’s in Burlington from Yaroslavl, american-russian sister cities came who coincidentally was in Yaroslavl at the under pressure in 2013 to sever ties in same time as eight 02, said, “we are live response to russia’s anti-gay propaganda in different countries, we have different law. However, according to David Seaver, languages, we have different hobbies, but a native of Charlotte and the vice chair music connects us.” of the Burlington-Yaroslavl Sister City French got pulled into filming the Board, seeking political gains or changing exchange when he was coincidentally cultural behavior is not what sister cities pumping gas in BurlingtonShelburneAdultandChildPsychology.com at the same are about. “we aren’t a political organitime as Chris Peterman, the sax player zation,” he said, “and our mission is to for eight 02. Ken mentioned to Peterman build understanding and people to people Teresa Canal Meyer, Ph.D. that he was looking to do more video work contact.” for musicians and bands in Psychoanalysis/ town, and Jazz ambassadorsPsychotherapy is slotted to air on Psychoanalytic Peterman said, “we might be looking for PBS this fall and will possibly be shown someone to go to russia with us to film Come next year at theyourself Burlington Discover Jazz to know our trip.” Festival. To help Ken with funding or for “This is one of the most trying timesand for your more informationwith about his film, visit relationship others our relationship with russia,” said Barbara kenfrenchmedia.com. To find out more Shatara, treasurer of the Sister City boardForabout appointment: 985-8549 the Burlington-Yaroslavl Sister City and librarian at the Fletcher Free library. program, visit burlingtonyaroslavl.com. “and yet I think it’s so important to keep up those cultural exchanges so they

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6 â&#x20AC;˘ OctOber 22, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ the charlOtte News

A Stamp Stampede comes to Mt. Philo Inn Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben and Jerryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ice Cream, is bringing his Stamp Stampede, a grass-roots campaign to help get money out of politics, to the Mt. Philo Inn on Friday evening, Oct. 23, at 6:30. The Stamp Stampede is tens of thousands of Americans legally stamping slogans on our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s currency to get the message across that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to get money out of politics. Cohen will have stamp devices on hand and will urge event-goers to stamp dollar bills with campaign finance reform messages like: NOT TO BE USED FOR BRIBING

POLITICIANS, MONEY IS FREE SPEECH and CORPORATIONS ARE NOT PEOPLE! Cohenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to promote a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United, a Supreme Court ruling that protects political expenditures as free speech under the First Amendment and allows corporations to spend unlimited amounts on independent political activity. As more and more stamped money spreads, so will the movement to amend the constitution. Event co-organizer and Hokum Bros. front man Woody â&#x20AC;&#x153;Woodheadâ&#x20AC;? Keppel promises that, along with Benâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stampede, the evening will offer something for everyone. On hand to help celebrate the occasion will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vermontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun band,â&#x20AC;? The Hokum Bros. Mt. Philo State Park Rangers John and Kim Frigault, who just completed another year taking care of Vermontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular state park, will talk about the dogs of Mt. Philo and their work with Long Trail Canine Rescue. Stampers and revelers will be treated to local food from Starry Night CafĂŠ, as well as wine, Fiddlehead beer and Ben & Jerryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ice cream for dessert. For more information, contact Dave Garbose at 425-3335 or by email at garbose@mtphiloinn. com, or go to mtphiloinn.com.

Community members gather to dedicate the new solar arrays at the Charlotte Congregational Church, which will save on electric bills, reduce the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carbon footprint, and give back to those in need. From left: Jeanie MacDonough, David Speidel, Susan Cooke Kittredge, Tony Stout, Donald Schroeder and Dottie Schnure. PHOTO: TOM Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;BRIEN

Solar

continued from page 1

year and could be expanded as the needs of the church change. The system has a 25-year expected lifespan. During that time, it is estimated that it will save the church $105,700 in electric bills, a projection that is calculated based on todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rates. Currently CCC pays an average of $4,228 per year for electricity. The arrays will generate 110 percent of

the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s need, after any loan payback. Intentionally overbuilding the system by 10 percent enables the church to give a tithe to the Joint Urban Ministries Project (JUMP) to help fund low-income electric bill vouchers. The estimated contribution to JUMP is approximately $422 per year or $10,550 over the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifespan. Support for the project has been building over the last three years. Since 2007 CCC has had a Committee for Contemplation and Social Action (CASA), whose mission statement calls the congregation to recognize â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Ś reverence for creation by identifyingâ&#x20AC;Ś environmental issues, stimulating study, dialogue and prayer, and inviting action.â&#x20AC;? Through book studies, meetings of the Environmental Action Committee, sermons and worship services, they have been dedicated to focusing on care for the environment. A small seed fund was established to encourage the congregationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to energy conservation and environmental stewardship. Heeding the groundswell of enthusiasm for this effort, church members commissioned an energy audit and applied for this grant. The photovoltaic panels will be tied into the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electrical supply net metering. GMP will make it possible for CCC to learn how much power the solar panels are generating, a helpful tool in understanding how the system aids the church in reducing its carbon footprint. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are so grateful to Green Mountain Power for making this possible,â&#x20AC;? Kittredge said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not just saving money on our electric bills. We really feel called to step more lightly on the earth and make a commitment to the next generation. Plus, we are helping people in need. This project lets us carry out all parts of our mission.â&#x20AC;? For more information about the Solar Project, call Kim Findlay or Susan Cooke Kittredge at 425-3176.

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The CharloTTe News â&#x20AC;˘ oCTober 22, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ 7

Pie

continued from page 1

is not fixing boats at Darling Boatworks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh, I love it,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an important part of my year.â&#x20AC;? The fundraising impact of the pie program has grown over the years. A portion of the proceeds from this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pie sales will go toward outfitting a new solar array that sits, nearing completion, on an adjacent hill. Three years ago the program began the Buy One, Give One initiative, through which a customer can buy one pie for $16 and buy another for a reduced rate of $14 to be taken to an area nonprofit. Organizations that have benefitted from the initiative thus far are the Lund Center, Respite House, Harbor Place and the Ronald McDonald House, among others. At the heart of the baking enterprise is Perkins, the life force behind the scenes. Whether sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organizing email orders, perfecting recipes or taking pies out of the big black oven, nicknamed â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Holy Heat,â&#x20AC;? Perkins seems to draw from a bottomless well of energy. And her dedicated volunteers find her verve infectious. When asked how she got involved seven years ago, Barton-Rivera pauses while labeling a freshly boxed pie before answering, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Martha is very persuasive.â&#x20AC;? The bakers have honed their skills over the course of the last seven years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gotten really good at crusts,â&#x20AC;? BartonRivera says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Martha, can we tell them your secret?â&#x20AC;? Martha swings her compact frame around and says in a bright cheery tone, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I tell everyone my secret!â&#x20AC;? BartonRivera leans in anyway, as though Perkins is divulging clandestine information, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Apple cider in the crust,â&#x20AC;? she says with a knowing wink. A truck from Champlain Orchards delivers apples and cider to the door of the church on Tuesdays and Fridays, so when volunteers arrive they are ready to spring into action. The flurry of activity in the kitchen yields tantalizing smells and tables filled with boxed inventory that sells like hot cakes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now and then we have one or two pies leftover at the end of each week, but a lot of times we sell out,â&#x20AC;? Perkins says. On November 11, Marthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children are coming in from Portland, Boston and right up the road in Charlotte to help their mom with baking. Reflecting on what she loves about the program and what drives her efforts, Perkins flashes a warm smile. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the kind of workplace you covet,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all do everything, we depend on each other, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re helping our community, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun.â&#x20AC;? Pies at Charlotte Congregational Church are available on Wednesdays and Fridays until November 15. To place an advance order, send an email to msperkins@ gmavt.net and specify whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to order a two-crust or crumble-top pie. initiative, through which a customer can buy one pie for $16 and buy another for a reduced rate of $14 to be taken to an area nonprofit. Organizations that have benefitted from the initiative thus far are the Lund Center, Respite House, Harbor Place and the Ronald McDonald House, among others. At the heart of the baking enterprise is Perkins, the life force behind the scenes. Whether sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organizing email orders, perfecting recipes or taking pies out of the big black oven, nicknamed â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Holy Heat,â&#x20AC;? Perkins seems to draw from

a bottomless well of energy. And her dedicated volunteers find her verve infectious. When asked how she got involved seven years ago, Barton-Rivera pauses while labeling a freshly boxed pie before answering, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Martha is very persuasive.â&#x20AC;? The bakers have honed their skills over the course of the last seven years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gotten really good at crusts,â&#x20AC;? BartonRivera says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Martha, can we tell them your secret?â&#x20AC;? Martha swings her compact frame around and says in a bright cheery tone, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I tell everyone my secret!â&#x20AC;? BartonRivera leans in anyway, as though Perkins is divulging clandestine information, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Apple cider in the crust,â&#x20AC;? she says with a knowing wink. A truck from Champlain Orchards delivers apples and cider to the door of the church on Tuesdays and Fridays, so when volunteers arrive they are ready to spring into action. The flurry of activity in the kitchen yields tantalizing smells and tables filled with boxed inventory that sells like hot cakes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now and then we have one or two pies leftover at the end of each week, but a lot of times we sell out,â&#x20AC;? Perkins says. On November 11, Marthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children are coming in from Portland, Boston and right up the road in Charlotte to help their mom with baking. Reflecting on what she loves about the program and what drives her efforts, Perkins flashes a warm smile. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the kind of workplace you covet,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all do everything, we depend on each other, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re helping our community, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun.â&#x20AC;? Pies at Charlotte Congregational Church are available on Wednesdays and Fridays until November 15. To place an advance order, send an email to msperkins@gmavt.net and specify whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to order a two-crust or crumble-top pie.

Lewis Creek Association Party Dressed for the first snow fall, about 40 people braved the weather and celebrated LCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25th birthday party held near the fruit fields at the Last Resort Farm in Monkton. The food was warm and fantastic, and the beveragesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;apple cider, and tomato, strawberry and elderberry winesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;locally made. Party goers also celebrated LCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many 2015 accomplishments, including the completion of 10 restoration projects in the Pond Brook valley. (Top) Charlie Proutt helping to make wild apple cider for LCA party goers. (Bottom) Marty Illick and Terry Dinnan help cake maker Dee Dee Erb cut the Monet theme cake to celebrate LCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25th birthday.

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8 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Education News From CVU

To merge or not to merge…that is the question This past September 15, Chittenden South Supervisory Union preK-8 school boards selected members to represent union towns in a Merger Study Committee that will consider the merits of merging our union into a unified district. Is it time to replace our “common law” relationship with something more akin to the formal commitment of marriage? While some of us may shrink at the idea of this perceived loss of control, like a good marriage, there may be some profound long-term advantages. As many of you know, this topic has long been on the minds of our local boards. However, recent legislation in the form of Act 46 (an act relating to making amendments to education funding, education spending and education governance) has placed this work front and center this year due to potentially significant carrots offered by it. These financial incentives include both study grants (to pay for consultants and legal counsel)

and reduced tax rates for up to five years, with greater incentives provided for those school districts that advance to a merger sooner than others (prior to July 1, 2016). Why the incentive-based state push to merge districts? Looking over the past four years, it’s evident that educational leaders in the state have been taking a long hard look at educational changes needed to address a declining population with growing needs and a persistent, widening socioeconomic achievement gap in the midst of an ever-changing Internet-based society. This work has led to several policy changes in the last two years— mostly centering on the idea of creating more personalized, technology-rich learning experiences. Some examples are early college/dual enrollment, universal pre-K, personalized learning plans, learning-based standards and other educational quality standards that are causing educators to make significant shifts in practice and thinking to achieve better outcomes. These remarkable changes in how we educate our students have presented a host of implementation challenges, particularly as a result of the fiscal climate in which we live. In thinking about how these changes can be implemented equitably across the state, state leaders have concluded that addressing the vast unevenness in community approaches to educational governance is an important way to achieve collective goals. And the differences are

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Goals of Act 46 • Act 46 is designed to encourage and support local decisions and actions that: • Provide substantial equity in the quality and variety of educational opportunities statewide; • Lead students to achieve or exceed the State’s Education Quality Standards, adopted as rules by the State Board of Education at the direction of the General Assembly; • Maximize operational efficiencies through increased flexibility to manage, share, and transfer resources, with a goal of increasing the district-level ratio of students to full-time equivalent staff; • Promote transparency and accountability; and • Are delivered at a cost that parents, voters, and taxpayers value. • The Legislature intends all school boards will attend to these goals, while acknowledging that the means to achieve these goals will vary, depending on the particular circumstances of different districts. Source: education.vermont.gov/laws/2015/act-46

vast—wildly varying district populations and land areas, tuitioning options, student/ teacher ratios, etc., managed by local boards that are driven by community-specific values. While local control cannot be undervalued, the existing system is prone to a number of inefficiencies and is believed to contribute to statewide problems with educational cost containment, excessive leadership turnover and inequitable student opportunities. Consolidation can address these concerns through • sharing resources (educators, technology, food services, transportation services, custodial services, professional development, special education, etc.), • reducing the time/effort/cost needed to manage multiple boards, and aligning • curriculum and training. Not every community in Vermont is facing the same challenges, so consolidation may look different from one community to the next. The CSSU, for example, has historically had remarkable leadership stability, which is critical to planning and advancing initiatives. CSSU communities also already cooperatively work together, for the most part, to coordinate learning and efficiently use resources. There is certainly room, however, to contain costs better and improve educational outcomes. We hope this article has given you some context for the upcoming work of the Merger Study Committee as it begins to explore whether consolidation under Act 46 can be leveraged to help the CSSU

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better meet the needs of all students under a more cost-effective funding system. This work must be grounded in an understanding of what our communities value in local education. We invite you to participate in this ongoing conversation over the course of the year to learn about the opportunities afforded by Act 46 and share your vision and concerns. For more information, please see the Agency of Education’s website at education.vermont.gov/laws/2015/act-46 and CSSU’s link to study committee activities at cssu.org/domain/513.

CVU SChool Board CommUniCationS Committee Lia Cravedi, school board director, Hinesburg, lcravedi@uvm.edu Susan Grasso, community member, Shelburne, malbec@comcast.net Kim Schmitt, school board director, Shelburne, kschmitt@cssu.org

UPCominG CommUnitY eVentS at CVU October 23-25: The CVU Theatre Program fall musical production of CHICAGO. Performance dates are Oct. 23 & 24 at 7:30 p.m. and Sun. Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. November 5, 6:30 p.m.: Dessert with the principal November 17, 5 p.m.: CSSU Board

The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 9

The Humbled Parent

Long days, short years Jorden Blucher ContriButor

on november 2, 2009, two weeks after noah was born, i was laid off from my job as the creative director of a living-history park in utah. the day had started off like any other for two new parents—hectic. Shortly after i arrived at the office that day, i found myself sitting across from my boss as he blew sunshine where it did not belong, telling me how this was an extremely hard decision and he had been up half the night and blah blah blah. they wanted to go in a new direction, get someone with marketing experience. i

A mountain of fun Mt. Philo plays host to an annual hillclimb race and a new record

buildings, and i headed for one i was sure would be empty. i sat on the porch exhausted. i looked out over the valley, wondering how i was going to tell Erin. After a short time i got in my car and drove home. thankfully i’ve never been the breadwinner in the family. Still, the pain of being out of work weighed on me. By the time i pulled into the driveway my plan was set. i would get a job in a restaurant. Since college it had been my standard fall-back plan when times were lean. that way i could at least contribute to the household income. i was the man of the house after all. i stood outside our front door, staring at the lock, trying to

was completely blindsided. not quite two years earlier i had been hired as the graphic designer i walked inside and right away for the park. i never pretended to be a market- Erin knew something was ing genius; in fact, i had wrong. i told her what had told them i did not know happened and of my plan. much about it. i took on the role only because they had fired the marketing person for not doing her job, and with the find words. i walked inside and right understanding that i would only do it for away Erin knew something was wrong. a short time until we could find someone i told her what had happened and of my else, someone with more training than i plan. She told me there was no way i was had. nonetheless i loved my job, and i was going to wait tables, i hated waiting tables, excited to go to work. i may have been and i could stay home with noah. the learning on the fly, but i was giving 200 running joke since the beginning of our percent every day. relationship was that i had found myself i left the office mad and scared. the a sugar-momma and someday i would be park is over 400 acres with dozens of a househusband. We had stayed in utah

because of my job. Me staying home had never really been talked about when we found out we were having a baby. now we were at a cross roads and i had a choice to make. Did i really want to be a stay-at-home dad? At first i was on the fence; i figured i could go out on my own. i had a healthy list of contacts and the experience. We figured why not give it a try, and i set about creating a company. Soon Erin went back to work and i was a full-time dad, trying to juggle starting a business, caring for a baby and doing some consulting work for our church. the day it took me an hour and half to write a ten-line email was the day i realized i had a choice to make. i could be a stay-at-home dad or i could be a graphic designer, but i could not be both. it did not take me very long to make my decision. the last six years have been far from easy. i’ve learned so much about who i really am that at times i sit back in pure amazement at all of the changes that i have gone through. Several times i have told Erin that i could no longer handle staying at home and needed to find a job outside of the house. i’ve made two more attempts to start my own business, each resulting in me spiraling into a stressedout, anxiety-riddled state that leaves me short fused and unable to deal with the little things that come with raising two very strong-willed, rambunctious boys and running a house. no amount of money is worth that.

to see video of tingaud’s record-setting run, visit the Charlotte news’ website at goo.gl/49Mjrl. For more information about hillclimbing in new England, visit hillclimb.org.

Geeda Searfoorce thE ChArlottE nEWS

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Mt. Philo’s paved curves and stunning vistas were visited with a rush of adrenaline on Saturday and Sunday, october 17 and 18, as the Mt. Philo hillclimb race hugged the mountain. Sponsored by the Sports Car Club of Vermont and Joey Kale of Kale’s Custom, this year’s successful event presented approximately 12 runs each day. Despite the autumn chill, Sunday’s dry conditions allowed Paul tingaud to set the new record—clocking in at 1:00.76 from a standing start in his Audi Super Chicken. hillclimbing is an organized autosport that’s been going on for decades in which individual drivers race against the clock on a twisty mountain road. three new England clubs—Killington Sports Car Club (KSCC), Sports Car Club of new hampshire (SCCnh), and the Sports Car Club of Vermont (SCCV)—hold events at ski areas and state parks across Vermont, using paved access roads to the tops of okemo in ludlow, Ascutney in Windsor, Burke in lyndonville, Bolton Valley in Bolton, and Mt. Philo in Charlotte. For all hillclimbs, a club rents a mountain for a weekend and closes its roads to traffic; this creates safe courses ranging from one to three miles. Drivers come from all over the East, particularly northern new England, and occasionally from Canada and Europe. they range in age from 20 to 80 and work in any occupation. Many come from the automotive and machine trades and build their own racecars. thus, hillclimbing vehicles range from “run what you brung” daily drivers to purpose-built tube-frame specials.

10 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Puzzles “

The reason so few books are written is that so few people who can write know anything. ~ Walter Bagehot (1826–1877)

The 2015 East Charlotte Tra b

y the time the first of the 133 tractors participating in the 15th Annual East Charlotte Tractor Parade made the turn from Morningside Drive onto Spear Street, crowds of Vermonters—from Charlotte and beyond—were cheering in anticipation for the main event while at the same time gleefully enjoying the festivities that were already underway. Sunshine and foliage, live music, games, pony rides and food trucks made the green in front of Spear’s Corner Store an epicenter for family fun. Attendees began lining the street at 11 a.m. and children and adults of all ages mingled amidst vendors until late in the afternoon. From 1:30 until 2 p.m. revelers marveled at the monstrous and mini specimens of machinery that, at its essence, define the event as a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage and future. As the harvest season begins to wind down, Vermont farmers of all ages take this opportunity to make a victory lap, in the presence of community members, and remind us all of just how much we have to be thankful for. Mark your calendars! The 2016 parade will be held on October 9.

PHOTOS: ALEX BUNTEN, EDD MERRITT, MARTY BROWN, DON LOCKHART

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1. More than some 5. “___ Smile” (1976 hit) 9. Spray setting 13. Lou Gehrig, on the diamond 14. Donnybrook 15. Knowing about 16. Artist Bonheur 17. Be part of the cast 18. Brought into play 19. Simple addition 22. Elton John, e.g. 23. ___ souci 24. Mozart’s “L’___ del Cairo” 27. Like a bunch 29. Debonair 32. Undergrad degs. 33. Catches 36. Whole alternative 37. Ecstatic 42. Old German duchy name 43. Ready for anything 44. Wrath 45. Layers 47. It’s found in banks 49. Blonde’s secret, maybe 50. Vex, with “at” 52. Word from the decks 54. Literary homeowners 62. Shades 63. Roundish 64. Christiania, now 65. Tropical fruit 66. Rewards 67. Simpleton 68. Some beans 69. “___ quam videri” (North Carolina’s motto) 70. Chops

1. Big do 2. “Crazy” bird 3. Yorkshire river 4. Snares 5. Jiffs 6. Karen Carpenter, for one 7. Checks, with in 8. Trojan hero 9. Greek dish 10. Acad. 11. Potpourri 12. Big deal 14. Gibb brother 20. Ceiling 21. Occupied, as a lavatory 24. ___-Wan Kenobi 25. Art able to 26. Very, in music 28. Australian rock band 30. Clear 31. File material 34. “Harper Valley ___” 35. Jerk 38. Textual interpretation 39. “From the Earth to the Moon” writer 40. Signals 41. Society page word 46. Strauss opera 48. Storm part 51. Other halves 53. Age 54. As a result 55. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” writer 56. Bank 57. “Little piggies” 58. All alternative 59. “Cast Away” setting 60. Worm or lamp 61. Creates a lawn

Crossword and sudoku by Myles Mellor. answers to our puzzles Can be found near the Classifieds.

Charlotte Central School Is offering a

Developmental Screening For children ages 3-5 years old http://usercontent2.hubimg.com/591837_f260.jpg http://olms.cte.jhu.edu/olms2/data/c k/sites/1166/images/asian-girl.jpg

We What is a Developmental Screening? A developmental screening is an opportunity for early childhood professionals to observe the way children learn, play, speak, and move. A screening can be used to determine if children are learning basic skills and meeting developmental milestones, or if they might be having difficulties in certain areas.

When:

Friday, November 6th, 2015

Time:

8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon (by appointment)

Why:

Each child is unique and develops at his or her own pace, but sometimes concerns can arise, and it is helpful to identify these concerns as early as possible in order to get necessary supports in place.

Who:

Children ages 3-5 years, who live in Charlotte and are not yet enrolled in Kindergarten.

Com W Ja J

(* If you have concerns about a younger child and would like to make a request for a screening, please call us.)

Where:

Charlotte Central School, 408 Hinesburg Rd., VT 05445

Pre-registration is required. Please call 425-6691 to register for a time slot.

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The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 11

actor Parade – Much more than machines

Get your spooky on at the Mahana Magic Foundation 6th Annual Fundraiser

Monster Bash Lead Sponsors:

Friday, October 30, 2015

7-11:30 PM The Old Lantern

3186 Greenbush Road, Charlotte $65/ticket (Adults only) Tickets available at www.mahanamagic.org Buy tickets early…last year sold out!

Support a great cause having a ghostly evening with… haunted house, light appetizers, sweet treats and cash bar, thrilling entertainment, dancing with a rockin’ DJ…plus much more!

Donations welcome. Questions? Email info@mahanamagic.org

The Mahana Magic Foundation

Additional Sponsors:

Supports kids whose parent or adult care giver has cancer.

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The Mahana Magic Foundation is a non-profit organization which offers support to a child who is coping with the fear and uncertainty of having a parent or adult care giver with cancer. In affiliation with the Cancer Patient Support program (cpspvt.org), a free and comprehensive support service program that assists cancer patients and their families, Mahana Magic comforts and empowers children by giving them a sense of peace, confidence and control through the support of a Child Life Specialist, Ropes Courses, and Art Therapy opportunities. The late Greg Couture created Mahana Magic realizing that his cancer was a family diagnosis. In honor of his two daughters, Makena and Hana, Mahana is a combination of their names and means to create warmth.

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12 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Sports The fields are still green and the trophies waiting However, the trophies will not wait for long as fall sports seasons are all reaching ends with most CVU teams looking forward to the playoffs.

Redhawk football lacks consistency In mid October CVU greeted Mount Anthony in Hinesburg in a game that seesawed for nearly the entire contest before MAU finally prevailed 30-27. CVU began the scoring by recovering a Patriot fumble on the opening kickoff and a dropped CVU punt to lead by two touchdowns. However, a porous Redhawk defense allowed MAU to work back into the game, leading through the second half. It still required an interception of Redhawk QB Bortnick’s pass at the Mount Anthony goal line with just over four minutes remaining in the game to stop a late CVU drive. The following week, like Mount Anthony, Middlebury also took advantage of CVU defense in the second half

to overcome a strong early start by the Redhawks. Despite Charlotte runner Richard Lowrey coming back from a one-game suspension, the Redhawks were unable to sustain an early tight contest. Middlebury, who did not lose this season (8-0), blocked and carried well, particularly up the middle, through the second half to build up a four-touchdown lead that was unanswered by the Redhawks. Brad Reynolds another Charlotter, rushed for 45 yards in 10 carries and one touchdown, with Lowrey contributing an additional 29 yards in 12 carries; Lowrey carried as both fullback and halfback. The Redhawks finished the season at 4 wins, 4 losses.

seed with a 13-1 record. Midfielder Dillon Hamrell tipped in an assist from defender Joe Parento for the game’s only goal, although CVU dominated the offensive play. Goalie Aidan Johnson was called upon for only one save to the Laker keeper’s eight. In games prior to Colchester, Todd Boisjoli hit his second overtime winning goal against Essex for a 1-0 victory. After having set up Boisjoli in Hornet land, Cooper O’Connell scored a hat trick himself in a 5-1 defeat of Burlington. A week earlier, South Burlington took 75 minutes of playing time before scoring to present the Redhawks with their lone defeat of the season, 2-1.

Men’s soccer grabs top seed

Soccer women find themselves in an unusual position

Edd Merritt Sports Roundup

It took the Redhawk soccer men nearly three-quarters of a game against Colchester to break a scoreless deadlock and advance to the playoffs as the top

Charlotte Recreation News Nicole Conley CONTRIBUTOR

Big thanks… to the following individuals and organizations for donating their time and/or items to help raise money for the CCS 8th grade trip and the Recreation Department during the Soccer Jamboree: Tenney’s Family Deli, McKenzie Country Classics, LaVilla Bistro and Pizzeria, Shelburne Orchards, Recreation Commission, Jones family, Schermerhorn family, Therrien family, Judy Hill, Matt Krasnow, Elizabeth Skypeck, Abby Foulk, Dan Conley and Dale Durant. The Jamboree was a great success! We had a perfect fall day for a full day of soccer. We look forward to another great Jamboree next fall. Season completion…Last week the

2015 CCS Soccer Jamboree participants. soccer teams finished up their season with some friendly games against one another. This year’s great soccer season would not have been possible without the support of our terrific coaches. The Recreation Department truly appreciates all of the time, effort and positivity each coach has added to make for a fun-filled season. Thank you to the following coaches: Kate and Ryan Bowen, Amy Cooper, Evan Langfeldt, Matt Daley, Matt Ringler, Julie Holmes, Ben Nostrand, Jeff Albertson, John Higgins, Josh Golek, Jim Morris, Steve Smith, Ben Haydock, Kit Perkins and Amy Rohrbaugh.

Adult ProgrAmming indoor BAll: Pickle Wednesdays: 6–8 p.m. starting Nov. 5. Charlotte

A season with two losses has not been the standard in the recent past for CVU women soccer players. However, Central School eArly morning Boot cAmP: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6–7 a.m. at CCS. Cost: $10 per class. mAt PilAtes: Fridays: 6–7 a.m. at CCS. Cost: $8 per class. disc golf: Join Recreation Commissioner Greg Smith on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 10 a.m. at the Charlotte Beach for a disc golf demonstration (rain or shine). solo first Aid: Be trained to act competently in the kind of emergencies you are most likely to encounter. SOLO training emphasizes how the body works, what happens to it when it has been injured or is ill, and the basic principles behind treatment. By truly understanding basic physiology, the principles of emergency response, long-term patient care and equipment improvisation, you will be more prepared to deal with non-textbook problems. Coming soon this winter…

youth ProgrAmming Fall indoor and outdoor programs are posted at charlottevt.org under “Recreation.” If your child is interested in music, we have afterschool piano lessons which will take place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays starting in January. Winter registration will begin November 1.

2015 recreAtion BAsketBAll informAtion k indergArteners: Practice will be on

despite continued scoring by Charlotte’s Catherine Cazayou, the Redhawks lost in two overtimes to undefeated Colchester 2-1. The Lakers ended their season with an undefeated record of 14-0 and the number two seed in the state tournament (undefeated Burr and Burton is seeded number one), while CVU secured the third tournament seed. Charlotte goalkeeper Michaela Flore has been a strong force in the net for the Redhawks, making eight saves in an overtime win against Essex, followed by five in a 6-1 victory over BHS and three in the OT loss to Colchester.

Field hockey in favorable position for tournament Sporting a 9-win, 3-loss and 2-tie record, the Redhawk field hockey team ended the season with a 2-0 shutout of South Burlington. Again it required strong goalkeeping by Tashia RockwoodPasby to maintain the margin. Following a 2-1 loss to Mount Mansfield near the beginning of October, the Redhawks have come back for shutouts of Colchester, Middlebury and South Burlington, beating the visiting Rebels a second time by a score of 2-1. On October 14 Mount Saturday mornings from 8 to 9. (if we have enough players). 1st–2nd grAders: Co-ed teams will practice once or twice a week (dependent on coaches and gym space). 3rd –6th grAders: Teams will practice twice a week with games on Saturdays against teams from local towns. **Any 6th to 8th grader who attends CCS tryouts and does not make a team may sign up for recreation basketball. We could have a 7th/8th grade rec team if there are enough players and a volunteer coach.

registrAtion detAils Early Registration: Oct. 10 – Nov. 13. Fee: $50 ($45 if you don’t need a T-shirt) Late Registration: After Nov. 13, $60 registration fee (unless 6th–8th grader) Age Group: Kindergarten to 8th grade First Practice: Week of Nov. 30 Basketball Ends: Feb. 13 Registration forms can be found at charlottevt.org, or stop by the Town Hall and fill one out.

Volunteer…mAke A difference! Join the group of coaches and team helpers who have already helped create a positive experience for your children. We had such a successful soccer season this fall because of our coaches; let’s continue the success during the basketball season! More info can be found at charlottevt.org.

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The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 13 A view to Mt. Philo from the co-housing section of the Charlotte Town Link Trail. The pond in the foreground is an irrigation pond for the Charlotte Berry Farm. PHOTO: ELIZABETH BASSETT

Out-Doors

by Elizabeth Bassett

Town Link Trail – a dream coming true Elizabeth Bassett ThE CharloTTE NEws

wearing rubber boots and carrying a map, Margaret russell met me by Fortin’s Veggie Barn on lake road. “There will be a Town link Trail sign here,” Margaret says, pointing down a mowed path stretching to the east. “let’s start walking.” The trail was wide and smooth as we strolled along. “Chris Fortin mows this section when he hays our fields,” Margaret says. we turned south and into a stand of trees. “Chris used his stump grinder and harrow rake here,” she says of the soft dirt trail that winds through the woods. we passed a cluster of ironwood trees, their trunks twisting like muscle sinews. of course there is lots of buckthorn, too. “whose land is this?” I ask. “It belongs to my husband, Michael, and me. when the trail crosses private land the

Town of Charlotte must get an easement from the owners,” Margaret explains. we transitioned from woods to scrub on a recently cut trail. Every now and then we tripped over roots and small stumps. soon we were at the now-defunct train station. The Trails Committee, led by co-chairs Margaret russell and stephany hasse, has a well-developed vision for a seven-mile trail running from Mt. Philo to the Town Beach via the west Village. “I hope that one day the whole trail will be gravel so that someone can ride a bike from one end to the other,” says Margaret. a model for this trail is the TaM—the Trail around Middlebury. “That trail is much longer, but it’s similar, a pointto-point trail with some loops off of it,” Margaret says. “we have places to stop for berries [Charlotte Berry Farm and Pelkey’s], wine [Pelkey’s], veggies, and pumpkins [Fortin’s]. The plan includes a spur into the village where the old Brick store and little Garden Market await. I also dream of one day having some art along the trail.” several sections are complete with gravel—the Trevor and Melissa Mack Trail from lower old Town Trail to state

Park road and the co-housing section that runs from Greenbush road to the ball fields next to the Charlotte Berry Farm on route 7. “Next summer the state will be improving route 7. They will include an underpass for the trail,” Margaret says. “we have also received a $50,000 VTrans planning grant that will allow us to engineer the stretch along state Park road to connect the Mack Trail to Mt. Philo state Park.” Margaret and I continued our exploration, crossing Ferry road and walking behind the Charlotte Family health Center. we passed through another wooded stretch and skirted a private home that was once part of the Burns property, then up and down Barber hill behind the old lantern. I was glad to have a guide as this section of trail is not well identified or signed. later in the afternoon I explored the co-housing section of trail. signs mark the designated parking along the access road. The trailhead is just a few hundred feet from the clustered homes. There are always pleasant surprises in the outdoors—a bird, a fox or a skunk. I have walked this trail before yet each time I am struck by the beauty of the land, out of sight (if not sound) of habitation. Mt. Philo looms ahead. I turn around at route 7 but not before finding a family sharing a picnic in the middle of the trail. one day, before too long, a picnic in the middle of the trail will not be a good idea. when Margaret and the Trails Committee’s dream comes true we will be walking, biking or skiing this distance, from mountain to shore via the village. “why invest so much time and energy in this project?” I ask. “Because it is the one thing that will outlast me,” Margaret says. lucky Charlotte.

Walk, bike – weigh in! You can make a difference in planning the future of our area! The Chittenden County regional Planning Commission has begun a long-anticipated update to the regional active Transportation Plan. This plan will provide the basis for future regional investments in walking and biking throughout Chittenden County. From now until November 1, the public is invited to add comments, suggestions, likes and dislikes directly to an online interactive map tool at goo.gl/aQCdNc. For information, contact Peter Keating at pkeating@ccrpcvt.org.

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14 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Food Shelf News Kerrie Pughe Contributor

An average of 94 of our neighbors were served during the months of July, August and September. in addition, with a grant from SCHiPs we provided 17 financial assists for utilities and fuel throughout the year to eligible families. As well, we provided funds to CCS for the SHoE in program, which helps to fund gift cards for sports shoes for those in need. Annual meeting: We held our annual organizational meeting September 24 at the Senior Center. Volunteers discussed upcoming projects such as the collection and distribution of kids winter clothes in partnership with the Grange. We also discussed holiday basket plans, volunteer opportunities and priorities for the new Year. Donations: We so appreciate all the food and financial donations this past fiscal year. unfortunately, however, financial donation totals made September 1, 2014, through August 31, 2015, were down 20 percent compared with the previous year, while the need for food and assistance remained steady. the long-running Feinstein Challenge was discontinued in 2015 and accounts for much of this shortfall. in the past, the

Food Shelf has maintained a policy of not spending donated funds on fundraising efforts. We’d like to continue this policy and therefore ask for the community’s assistance in spreading the word about the good work the Food Shelf does for our neighbors in need all year long. We appreciate those cash and food donations and ask that you keep us in mind specifically as the holiday giving season approaches. Vermont Foodbank: representatives from the Vermont Foodbank came to the Charlotte Library on September 30 to talk about hunger in Vermont. the Vermont Foodbank, with its partners, distributed over 10 million pounds of food in FY 2015. the Foodbank serves 225 - network partners. Approximately 153,100 individuals are served annually. in Chittenden County over 19,000 individuals are considered “food insecure,” which means they lack reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Each of us can help by 1) volunteering at the Foodb bank or the Charlotte Food Shelf, 2) donating food or money to the Foodb bank or Food Shelf and 3) advocating by talking to friends, family, co-workers and politicians about the state of hunger in Vermont. Holiday baskets: Mark your calendars for Friday, november 20, from 8 to 10 a.m. We’ll be setting up thanksgiving food baskets at the Charlotte Congregational Church and will need your help. All are welcome to join us for this busy and festive project. thank you to our local farmers, gardeners and keepers of the community gardens at the Charlotte Library and Charlotte Congregational Church. the fresh produce was very much appreciated! thank you to richard Kerschner for the apples and to all who responded generously to our wish-list requests. thank you to those who donated kids winter clothes for our clothing drive with the Grange. We appreciate all the help with sorting and

The Food Shelf Annual Meeting of Volunteers took place on Sept. 24, 2015. Back row (from left): Toby Tyler, Bill Doris, Cindy Robinson, Jerry Schwarz, Marilyn Holmberg, Laura Iglehart and Brandon Hammond. Front row (from left): Cindy Tyler, Karen Doris, Lisa Sturtevant, Janet Schwarz, Liz Foster, Liz Deslauriers and Nancy Barnes. Peggy Sharpe and photographer Kelly Cocker also attended but aren’t pictured. distributing from the Grange volunteers and our own Food Shelf volunteers, and we were able to outfit all the children in need with winter clothing (coats, boots, hats, gloves, snow pants). Wish list: Snacks for kids, such as raisins and other dried fruits, Goldfish, rice cakes, peanut butter, crackers and pretzels. Looking for volunteers: Will you help us? We need substitutes in particular for the Wednesday evening and thursday morning food distributions. Please call nancy at 425-6116 if you can help. Donated food drop-off locations: All nonperishable food donations may be dropped off at the Charlotte Library, the Charlotte Congregational Church vestry, our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church (main entrance) or at the Food Shelf during the distribution mornings. We request that all fresh foods be dropped off at the Food

Shelf by 7:30 a.m. on the thursday distribution mornings or before the Wednesday distribution hours. the Charlotte Food Shelf is located on the lower level of the Charlotte Congregational Church vestry. Distribution days/times are posted in this newspaper and on the bulletin board in the Charlotte Congregational Church Hall. You may also call the Food Shelf number (425-3252) for a recording of the distribution times. For emergency assistance (electricity, fuel) call Cindi at 425-3234. For emergency assistance (electricity, fuel) call Cindi at 425-3234. For more information call Karen at 425-3252 or visit our website at sites. google.com/site/charlottefoodshelfvt/.

Upcoming 2015 charlotte Food ShelF diStribUtion dateS Wednesday Oct. 28, 5–7 p.m. Thursday Oct. 29, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

Kid’s Haunted House Event

Wednesday Nov. 11, 5–7 p.m.

Fundraiser Hosted by the Mahana Magic Foundation

Thursday Nov. 12, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

Come get your spooky on at The Old Lantern 3260 Greenbush Road, Charlotte Wednesday, October 28th & Thursday, October 29th 5:30-8:30 pm $5 Donation Entry / person Open to all ages Rain or Shine

— Event Sponsor — Food will be available to purchase.

Mahana Magic Supports kids whose parent or adult care giver has cancer. For more information go to www.mahanamagic.org

Saturday Nov. 21, Thanksgiving baskets distribution, 8:30–10 a.m. The Charlotte Food Shelf is located on the lower level of the Charlotte Congregational Church vestry.

The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 15

OutTakes Commentary by Edd Merritt

Pardon me while I skate over your knuckles Buddy’s real talent was beating people up His heart wasn’t in it but the crowd ate it up Through pee-wees and juniors, midgets and mites He must have racked up more than six hundred fights […] But what can a farm boy from Canada do? Hit somebody! was what the crowd roared When Buddy the goon came over the boards “Hit Somebody! (The Hockey Song)” – Warren Zevon Despite using a song about Buddy the Goon as its introduction, today’s story is my argument against calling Canada a violent nation because of its leadership in hockey. The New York Times (October 11) says that, to see the nature of Canada’s violence, all one has to do is look at the National Hockey League, even though, according to the article, “Canadian violence is an oxymoron.” But it is the start of the NHL season, and the goons are gathering to perform things the fans want, tamed by somewhat wilted

Helping families meet the bottom line When Jason Fitzgerald, clinical coordinator and exercise physiologist at Dee Physical Therapy, met with the staff of the Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS) eight years ago, he discovered there was an unmet demand for disposable diapers for at-risk populations. Inspired to create change, Fitzgerald began the Dee PT Great Diaper Drive in 2007 to engage the larger community in improving the lives of individuals in transition. Now in its ninth year, the drive has collected more than 160,000 diapers to donate to families in need that are temporarily living in COTS shelters. The cost of disposable diapers, often prohibitive for low-income community members, presents a stumbling block in vulnerable budgets. Fitzgerald, along with his colleagues at Dee Physical Therapy, aims to remove that stumbling block. “Your donation helps families save so that they can move from shelters back to living independently,” he tells prospective and repeat donors alike. In the past, donations from local companies such as Healthy Living and Seventh Generation, as well as from patients, coworkers, political figures and neighbors, have bolstered numbers significantly. This year, the drive, which happens annually around the holiday season, has a focus on increasing community involvement and support from organizations statewide. If

titles such as “throwing checks” and at M.I.T., goes on to point out that the level facing “box time” for their dirty deeds. of violence in Canada is actually below Hockey in Canada is a bit like nighttime in what Americans think it is and much Las Vegas or hard-toed sneakers, serving below our own levels—a theory made different purposes to different people. apparent by the recent coast-to-coast gun Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper violence here. Their violence appears calls it a “great game,” as did my peewee mainly on the ice. coach, an orthopedic surgeon from Restrepo decided to test his theory by Winnipeg. David Letterman yells at us to, looking at the relationship between the “Hit somebody!” settlement of the two countries’ western It may be that frontiers and the hockey does impact of having the connote violence Canadian Mounted Hockey players who at certain stages in Police representing the game. Blades grew up outside the a national authority on ice, long sticks Mounties’ purview were in the migration in hand, and frozen west. The American penalized 1.4 minutes hard-rubber pucks settlers had to fend traveling faster more per game for themselves, fightthan one’s ability than those ing off others who to duck them may “plundered and who had Mounties’ cause some otherfeuded,” trying to wise fair-minded protection. obtain what they felt late-juvenile to they needed in order wait diligently to survive in the until the cause of his anger—an opponent western wilderness. He found that in this with his elbows up, for example—makes country “violent codes of honor, revenge the mistake of approaching too close with and self-justice were second nature for head down, and boffo! there go blades in early settlers and were transmitted from the air, sometimes teeth with them, and parents and society to children.” the blows begin. In contrast, the Canadian Mounted So it’s gloves to the ice, knuckles to Police exerted control over their commuthe nose, steady on your feet and ready nities, sort of like hockey referees. As to rumble. Like boxers in the ring, the fights appear, they are quickly quelled, circling begins. More time seems to be since the fisticuffs may make the matter spent looking for the opening for the single turn ugly and bloody and ruin the players’ solid punch that will save the thrower the chances for guest appearances with Don anguish of taking one in return. Those Cherry. Looking at historical data from who are selected for their fighting prowess the NHL, he discovered that hockey playknow just when to hold back and just ers who grew up outside the Mounties’ when to throw. Pretty soon, when, as often purview were penalized 1.4 minutes more happens, the fight does not appear to be per game than those who had Mounties’ heading in either goon’s favor, they will protection. both step back, gather their equipment Having coached my sons’ teams that that is strewn about the ice and head for traveled north of da bordare periodically, the penalty boxes, where there are always I learned that Canadian youth hockey sufficient liquids to quench their thirsts. depended less directly on physical contact The Times article, written by Pasqual than that played in this country. I rememRestrepo, a Ph.D. candidate in economics ber specifically the rules that constrained

participants meet the 2015 goal of 40,000 diapers—exceeding last year’s total donations of 32,000—Fitzgerald and his crew can be assured that the program’s continued growth will have a tremendous impact on families in need. Donations will be accepted Oct. 19 through Dec. 22. Diapers can be dropped off between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

on Mondays through Thursdays and between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Fridays at DeePT locations in South Burlington, Shelburne, and Hinesburg. Donation pick-up is also available. For more information or if you have any questions, contact Dee Physical Therapy at 865-0010 or email Jason Fitzgerald at jasonfitzgerald@deept.com.

body checking at youth levels in Canada. As a result, the Canadian kids had to learn to handle the puck and skate with speed and agility. They often did both well, and our kids soon discovered while “resting” in the penalty box that just because they were not Canucks did not mean they could hit players with abandon. The Canadian rules may, in fact, have helped those such as Wayne Gretzky, UVM’s Martin St. Louis and Patrick Sharp in becoming the accomplished leaders of their teams through skill rather than brute force. Even St. Albans’ John LeClair, though sizable enough to handle most other players physically, must have taken a tip from his northern buddies, as his NHL prowess seemed to rely equally on puck control, quick hands and a mean shot. After all, one only needs to show up at the Forum in tattered blue jeans and a ragged sweater for a Montreal Canadiens’ home game to soon realize that you’re in minority attire among the fans who, to a T, are decked out in blazers, ties, probably even a cummerbund here and there. Les Canadiens are a gentleman’s team with a long history of skill over knuckles. In early NHL history, it was in places such as New York and Chicago (even Detroit to some extent), where hockey was not embedded in the culture as it is in Canada, that the fans cheered on the slug matches and argued that every game needed its share of fights. Madison Square Garden could become as much a ring as a rink when the Rangers were in town. So let the season begin (although it seems a bit early to me as someone who grew up relying on outdoor rinks). Unfortunately, I feel that, due to its length and the fans’ desires where hockey is not king, violence often replaces the sport and that we have to wait until spring to see the really great playoff hockey, when stick skills and skate speed play the dominant roles. But, then again, as my son’s teammate once said, “The best seats in the house are in the penalty box. So, make yourselves comfortable.”

I live my life in widening circles That reach out across the world. Rainer Maria Rilke

16 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Senior Center News

The Café Menu

Monday, october 26 Lumberjack mixed vegetable soup Green salad Homemade apple crisp Wednesday, october 28 Smoked sausage with sauerkraut Baked potatoes Homemade dessert Monday, noveMber 2 Chef’s choice homemade soup Delicious dessert Wednesday, noveMber 4 Old-fashioned meatloaf Baked potatoes Cauliflower gratin Birthday cake and ice cream

Happy Halloween preparations

Mary Recchia COntRiButOR

The October art exhibit features original quilts and works in fiber by Vermont fiber artists Hope Johnson of Vermont Quilt Bee, Joanne Guillemette, nancy Hayden, Angela Miller and Linda Lazarowski. the Vermont Quilt Bee and Friends, with a theme of “Fiber Art that Celebrates the World of Pollinators,” share an interest in the natural world and an appreciation of the importance of pollinators in our environment. Yes, you can learn the true Yang Family style of tai chi famous for its myriad benefits to health and well-being. the flowing movements and postures will increase flexibility, improve balance and strengthen core muscles. Practitioners cultivate a deeper sense of relaxation, increased energy level and a real sense of confidence and presence. John Creech has been studying and practicing tai chi for over 10 years and invites you to come learn and practice together on thursday mornings from 10 to 11. Registration necessary. Fee: $42 for six classes. We will be showing the 2015 documentary feature Oscar nominees on tuesday afternoon from 1 to 3. From over 100 films, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences whittled its choices to 15; the red carpet was rolled out last February for the final five films. While the outcome is history, you can catch the last three films: Citizenfour on Oct. 27, Finding Vivian Maier on nov. 3, and the Salt of the Earth on nov. 10. Registration required. no fee. Elizabeth Llewellyn returns this fall

Shirley Galliher of Richmond helps to prepare fudge and popcorn balls for the annual Halloween effort. The Senior Center gets around 400 trick-or-treaters each year. PHOTO:

Senior luncheons are held every Wednesday at noon. Advance reservations are necessary and can be made by calling the Senior Center at 425-6345. Our Monday lunch is served beginning at 11:30 a.m.; reservations are not required. A $4 donation is requested.

COURTESY

on thursday mornings from 10 to11:30 to lead a Drawing with Pen and Ink class on Oct. 29 and nov. 5, 12 and 19. ink is a wonderfully flexible drawing medium that has been popular for centuries. in this beginner class we will practice the different types of marks that can be applied to paper using ink. using different texturing techniques—contour lines, parallel lines, cross hatching, stippling and scumbling— students will draw a variety of subjects. All skill levels are welcome. Please bring a sketchbook and ink pen to the first class. Registration necessary. Limit 10. Fee: $75. Have fun with Pastels! Let your creativity loose as you learn helpful techniques to make colorful paintings with Shirley Reidthompson on thursday afternoons from 1 to 3:30. Dates: Oct. 29 and november 5, 12 and 19. the workshop instruction will help you organize the composition and

use color to enhance your work. All levels of skill are welcome. We will work from real-life setups except for one afternoon when we will use photographs. Please call Shirley (860-0666) for a materials list. Registration necessary. Limit 10. Fee: $100.

a collection of lectures, perforMances and special events shoWcasing the diverse interests of our coMMunity

Wednesday afternoons beginning at 1 p.m. No registration or fee. oct. 28: ethel atkins fudge fest! We’ll never know how she made 450 pieces of fudge for the children of Charlotte, but the Senior Center would like to carry on the tradition. not to be outdone,

Mrs. Williams’ best-ever popcorn balls will be in full assembly as well. We will supply the ingredients for you to mix up a batch of fudge at home, and then all are welcome to come around 1 p.m. and spend the afternoon telling stories and wrapping up fudge and popcorn balls for the children. nov. 4: annual Meeting With the friends of the charlotte senior center this is an opportunity for everyone to become better acquainted with the workings of our organization and to consider how they can become more active as volunteers. An update of our financial position will be given, questions will be answered, and the election of board members will take place. Hope to see you there.

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The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 17

Taking Care Alice D. Outwater,

Grumpy I drowsily wake up in bed and reach over for John’s hand. His space is empty. I want to cuddle and feel all is right in the world with him at my side. Then I remember he died seven years ago. My heart tumbles. How am I going to manage without him? There was nothing we couldn’t solve together. Now I’m alone and must figure out these sticky problems due to old age. Around supper hour I still listen for the door to open and hear, “Ali, Ali, I’ve missed you,” as he gives me a hug and a kiss. ”Did you have a dandy day? I can’t wait to tell you about mine.” I assumed aging meant I would be able to cope like a whiz: be magically endowed with endless patience, sleep better and then die. Life would be simple because my former ways would still work. Now I must reconsider. I’ve lost courage about handling my days. I sometimes feel grumpy on rainy days—as if I have any say in this matter. Imagine being such a complainer, wasting time dwelling on the weather. My annoyance increases as I list how my life has narrowed down. I remind myself, “You’ve thrived for decades with good health, four children and a husband who loved you. No one promised you a rose garden.” I must switch my brain over and remind myself what I still can do. The list has shrunk. No more skiing, playing tennis or going on lengthy hikes. Then I realize—if I’m more imaginative, new possibilities could open up. It’s time to change my thinking and position

myself as a beginner. I need to reinvent myself. Next I decide to interview a few random people, hoping to glean some wisdom. Maud tells me, “All I do is worry about my grown children and grandchildren. Their decisions are none of my business. This bad habit is exhausting. I’ve begun to feel helpless.” Patricia confides, “My balance is shaky. I’m scared of tripping on the pavement and falling. My walking stick helps. I’ve become over-alert and begin to think everything is tricky. Yet walking

I’m determined to end the day on a positive note. I close my day with the same appreciation. It’s a miracle to be alive. is such a pleasure through all the seasons.” Meredith offers, “I’ve become less adventurous. How I loved biking and camping—even sleeping in the fields. Now my body is stiffening up and becoming creaky, and my knees ache. I need to rest them after doing too much. Oh my, the list is so long it discourages me just to tell you.” Scott hesitated before sharing this personal information: “I’m taking a new approach. If the day

starts out poorly, I say a prayer of thanks. I’m determined to end the day on a positive note. I close my day with the same appreciation. It’s a miracle to be alive. “Each day I try to learn something new, often from talking with other people or reading. I become intrigued with a new topic, then want to learn more and, of course, share it. This has given me unexpected confidence. I think it’s even made me a more interesting person. My energy has risen and I probably smile more. People seem more attracted to me.” Everyone handles things differently. My dear friend Elinore possesses an even temperament. She says, “Rituals are important to me. When I wake up at 5:30 a.m. I’m eager to get my feet on the ground. I make my bed, go to the door to smell the air and check the temperature. I take my coffee from the kitchen, walk around the dining room chairs and loop into the library. Next I read the New York Times, Burlington Free Press, and the Guardian to get the European news. By now it’s 9 a.m. and I’m ready for the day – appointments, meeting friends, whatever needs to be done. These rituals are important to me, and I do them exactly the same way every morning.” At 87, Betty competes in 5K races. You should see her posture and flexibility! A few of my friends still play tennis. My 90-year-old friend Larry, an arborist, is heading to Patagonia to study the places being

preserved there. He emailed, “I’m off and tottering to new adventures.” It’s wise to consider options and decide on the best. There are always choices if we stay still long enough to find them. As for myself, I’m unabashedly spotting new pleasures in life. Now I must leave for salsa dance in the Coach Barn at Shelburne Farms. We’re in a circle. “Okay, three steps forward, tap, three

steps back, tap. Next to the left…” It begins to fit together and next a handsome male asks me to dance. Hey, everyone, look at me! I feel younger every darn moment. How I relish positive people and want to surround myself with them. Do join me and we’ll laugh and share outrageous tales. Just don’t rain on my parade.

Linda H. Sparks Senior Associate Broker Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Reality T: 802-846-7860 C: 802-734-2930 linda.sparks@fourseasonssir.com

Summer Point, Ferrisburgh

This turn-of-the-century Waterfront Cottage located on the shores of Lake Champlain is nearby the Basin Harbor Club, convenient for dining, golf, or tennis. Currently a seasonal property, the 3-bedroom cottage has an open floor plan with a vista of lake, mountains, and sunsets, well equipped kitchen, several sitting areas and a gas stove for those cool evenings. A unique lakeside flagstone patio includes stairs to the lake, dock and a special storage area. A separate and fun guest house is ideal for family gatherings. $750,000

Cedar Beach Lake Shore

What a perfect home from which to watch the sunrise over the lake and the boating activity in Converse Bay. Fish or swim off your dock in the summer, cross-country ski through the trails in the winter. This property is a unique 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a fieldstone fireplace as a focal point. Perfect for year round or a weekend getaway. 280 feet of lake shore and 3.96 acres of land and a winding driveway ending at a little slice of heaven. $549,000

Boater’s Paradise

Enjoy the summer at Lane’s Lane in a comfortable 2 bedroom cottage with Lake Champlain as your playground. Water ski off your dock, take your boat out fishing, or go for a swim. The cottage has screened and enclosed porches. What fun to sit at the kitchen counter on diner stools or cozy up to the wood stove on a cool summer evening. The large side lawn is perfect for badminton or frisbee. Let your summer begin. $250,000

STARKSBORO Single level home with 10 acres, privacy and mountain views, yet a walk to several neighbors. 20 minutes to Mad River & Sugarbush ski areas. Very well maintained home. Large rooms, perfect for entertaining. Newly renovated kitchen, new roof, views of Sugarbush. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, full basement. Septic built for 3 bedrooms. $359,000

Dottie Waller 802-846-7849

dottie.waller@ fourseasonssir.com

www.ChrisvonTrapp.com

3 Cottages + Two Lots = Priceless

Fantastic Home on 2.8 Acres

Historic Professional Office Building and Carriage Barn

You can’t imagine how cool this summer get-away is until you experience it. Great room, see-through screen porch roof, “Gnome camp.”

Minutes from Basin Harbor Club and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, this lakeside home has the privacy that others dream of.

Originally a tavern, this 1812 property, just off Rt. 7, has been completely updated for commercial office use and apartments since 1985, including all plumbing, heating and electrical. There’s ample parking and indvidual metering of most offices. Adjoining carriage barn & 7.5 acres, patio, pond and more.

$549,000 | MLS# 4426005

$1,275,000 | MLS# 4420886

$798,000 | MLS# 4455564

Chris von Trapp, REALTOR® Chris@ChrisvonTrapp.com (802) 343-4591

18 • OctOber 22, 2015 • the charlOtte News

Community Events

Halloween Events Near and Far saturday, october 24 Haunted Forest: For ages 6 and up. This is a completely free event and no tickets or RSVP are required. 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 3130 Mt Philo Rd. If you have any questions or have kids ages 8 and older who are interested in helping in the haunted forest, email annabelledoucet@hotmail.com.

sunday, october 25 sHelburne MuseuM FaMily day: Haunted HaPPenings: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission $5. Free for members and children 2 and under. Info: 985-3346 ext. 3318 or shelburnemuseum.org.

Friday, october 30 H alloween w ildliFe F estival & Jack-o’-lantern Hike: Kehoe Education Center on Point of Pines Road in Castleton. 5 to 8 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Fish & Wildlife Department and Green Mountain College. Directions: tinyurl. com/KehoeMap. Info: alison.thomas@ vermont.gov or 802-371-9975.

Friday and saturday, october 30 and 31 verMont’s new Halloween exPerience on track: All aboard the Halloween Express! Trips go from the Burlington Main Street Station to Shelburne and back. Party in tHe station Ticketholders are encouraged to come in costume and enjoy a fun preboarding Halloween party one hour before departure time. The Halloween Express will be collecting cash and check donations (no food items) in support of the Vermont Foodbank. A portion of ticket proceeds will be donated to the Foodbank. In addition, 100 percent of all photo booth and “Monster Donation Jar” donations will be given to the Foodbank. tHree diFFerent ride exPeriences are available: kids exPress train rides Departs 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. both Friday and Saturday (with an additional 10 a.m. train on Saturday). Features a family-friendly environment with fun activities and costumed characters, including Elsa and Olaf from Frozen, Batman and many more. A surprise gift

will be given to kids as they exit the train. Haunted exPress train rides Departs 6 p.m., 8 p.m., 10 p.m. on Friday and 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 8:30 p.m. on Saturday. The October Theatre Company, Inc. is collaborating with Williston Publishing & Promotions to produce the Haunted Express rides. If you want to be really scared, come aboard the Haunted Express. It will be filled with thrills, haunts and surprises. r.i.P. exPress (really iMPortant PeoPle) bar car train rides Departs 6 p.m., 8 p.m., 10 p.m. on Friday and 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 8:30 p.m. on Saturday. Includes seasonal sampling of Switchback microbrews paired with delicious localvore appetizers. The ride is for those age 21 and older; I.D. is required for entry. The R.I.P. ride will be a social experience, not a haunted one. Tickets and info: HalloweenExpressVT. com.

Charlotte Events (or events featuring a Charlotter) Friday, october 23 event: An evening of politics, music, tap dancing, dogs and ice cream! Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream, is bringing his Stamp Stampede, a grass-roots campaign to help get money out of politics, to the Mt. Philo Inn. Local food from Starry Night Café, wine, Fiddlehead beer and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream for dessert. 6:30 p.m. $20 donation. Info: garbose@ mtphiloinn.com or 425-3335. tHeater: The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-In-the-Moon Marigolds. Starring Mary Wheeler, Vera Escaja-Heiss, Francesca Blanchard, Patty Smith and Chenoah Small. Friday and Saturday Oct. 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. Thursday and Friday Oct. 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $22. Town Hall Theater, 68 South Pleasant St. Middlebury, 802-388-1436.

saturday, october 24 sPorts event: Demonstration of disc golf at the Charlotte Beach. Led by John Sudarsky and Richard Steele. The Charlotte Recreation Commission is seeking donations to establish a permanent nine-hole course at the Charlotte Beach. Free. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

wednesday, noveMber 4 FilM: Architecture + Design Film Series: Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry, directed by Alison Klayman (2012, Germany). Contois Auditorium, City Hall, Burlington. Doors open/reception begins at 6 p.m., film begins at 6:30 p.m. Charlotte sponsors include Vermont Eco-Floors and Artisan Engineering.

Around the Area Events Friday, october 23 Musical: The CVU Theatre Program fall musical production of Chicago. Friday and Saturday Oct. 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday Oct. 25 at 2:00 p.m.

saturday, october 24 walk: Enter the Borderlands—a wild woods walk that skirts the edge of the Faerie realm. Pause for a dance, a story, a pantomime, a riff of music. 2-5 p.m. 338 Thompson Road, Shelburne, treewild.com. race: Magic Hat Brewery will host Run For Your Life! a Halloween 5K/10K trail run to benefit the American Cancer Society. Costumes are encouraged in this family-fun event. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, 592 Governor Chittenden Rd., Williston. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m., run starts at 9 a.m. Pizza provided by Ramunto’s Pizza with Magic Hat Brewery on site. Registration is $25 for adults; $10 for kids under 12. Info or to register: relayforlife.org; runforyourlifevt on Facebook.

sunday, october 25 Presentation: Program on brain development of young children, 11:30 a.m., North Ferrisburgh United Methodist Church, through the double doors marked “Linden Hall Church office” and up the stairs. dinner: Community Harvest Supper. Roast turkey and all the fixings at St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 85 South Maple St., Vergennes. 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Adults: $10. Children: age 6-12 $5, age 5 and under free. Tickets: St. Peter’s Parish Office, Jackman Fuels, 802-877-2367.

tHursday, october 29 Presentation: Vermont Transportation Board public forum to engage the public in a conversation about public transportation and highway safety. 6:30 p.m. at the Essex High School cafeteria, 2 Educational Drive, Essex Junction. Info: tboard.vermont.gov.

saturday, october 31 birdwatcHing: Bird Monitoring Walks. Last Saturdays: October, November and December. Experienced birders, walks in the woods and bird-friendly coffee. Please bring your own binoculars and dress for the weather. Free. Birds of Vermont Museum, 900 Sherman Hollow Road, Huntington. 7:30-8:30 a.m. Pre-register birdsofvermont.org or 802-434-2167.

Monday, noveMber 2 discussion: Syrian Culture and People. Panel discussion, Syrian savories and sweets; cash bar. 5 to 8 p.m. Adults $25/$29 at the door. Under 18 $15/$19 at the door. Coach Barn at Shelburne Farms. Tickets at flynntix.org or 8635966. Info: 802-338-4627 or volunteer@ uscrivt.org.

tHursday , noveMber 5 Discussion: Dessert with the CVU principal at CVU. 6:30 p.m.

Ongoing FilM: Architecture + Design Film Series. One Wednesday evening each month at Contois Auditorium, City Hall, Burlington. Doors open/reception begins at 6 p.m., films begin at 6:30. Charlotte sponsors include Vermont Eco-Floors and Artisan Engineering. Future dates and info: adfilmseries.org.

Public Meetings October 22 – November 5, 2015

Selectboard: Oct. 26, 7 p.m. Planning Commission: Oct. 22, 7 p.m.; Oct. 31, 9 a.m. CCS School Board: none CVU School Board: none Zoning Board: Oct. 28, 7 p.m.; Nov. 4, 7 p.m. Conservation Commission: Oct. 27, 7 p.m. Meeting times are subject to change. Check the town website for more info: charlottevt.org

Have your say | Selectboard MeMberS | Chair, Lane Morrison, 425-2495 Matthew Krasnow, 922-2153 Carrie Spear, 425-4444 Jacob Spell, 425-6548 Fritz Tegatz, 425-5564 Selectboard Regular Meetings are usually at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. If you would like to bring an issue to the attention of the Selectboard, contact the board chair or administrator Dean Bloch at 425-3071, ext. 205.

| ccS School board | Chair, Mark McDermott, 425-4860 Vice Chair Erik Beal, 425-2140 Kristin Wright, 425-5105 Clyde Baldwin, 425-3366 Susan Nostrand, 425-4999

| cVU School board-charlotte | Lorna Jimerson, ljimerso@wcvt.com Lynne Jaunich, lmjau@gmavt.net

| Planning coMMiSSion | Administrator, Jeannine McCrumb, 425-3071; jeannine@townofcharlotte.com Chair, Jeffrey McDonald, 425-4429 Vice Chair, Peter Joslin Members: Gerald Bouchard, Paul Landler, Charlie Pughe, Donna Stearns, Marty Illick

| Vt goVernMent | vt senate (cHittenden district) Tim Ashe, D/P-Burlington, 318-0903, tashe@leg.state.vt Philip Baruth, D-Burlington, 503-5266, pbaruth@leg.state.vt.us Virginia “Ginny” Lyons, D-Williston, 863-6129, vvlyons@leg.state.vt.us Michael Sirotkin, D-South Burlington, 999-4360, msirotkin@leg.state.vt.us Diane Snelling, R-Hinesburg, 482-4382, dsnelling@leg.state.vt.us David Zuckerman, P/D/W-Hinesburg, 598-1986, dzuckerman@leg.state.vt.us verMont House Mike Yantachka, D-Charlotte, 425-3960, myantachka.dfa@gmail.com

| U.S. goVernMent | u.s. senators Patrick Leahy, 863-2525, leahy.senate.gov Bernie Sanders, 862-0697, sanders.senate.gov us congressMan Peter Welch, 652-2450, welch.house.gov

The CharloTTe News • oCTober 22, 2015 • 19

Around Town Congratulations to Ellen Stone of Charlotte, a senior at St. Lawrence University, Canton, New York, whose academic work earned her membership in the school’s chapter of Beta Beta Beta, national biological honorary society. Ellen is majoring in neuroscience and one of only 10 inducted into the St. Lawrence chapter. to Keira Yardley and Noah Macauley of Charlotte whose pieces were featured in the October 9 edition of the Young Writers Project in the Burlington Free Press. Keira’s piece, titled “Excitement,” takes her on a downhill ski race from start gate to finish. Her excitement is high, “smiling through my neck warmer.” Her heart pounds while her “mind swirls with thoughts.” Rather than on the slopes, Noah is at sea

taking in the “Feel of the waves.” He, too, is on a board, but his is a surfboard. He also experiences the pounding heart and feels as if he “can do anything.” to Michael Metz of Charlotte whose photographs of Long Beach Island, off the New Jersey coastline and not far from Little Egg Harbor, are being shown through October 31 at Mirabelles Café in Burlington. His show is titled “Summer on Long Beach Island,” and the photos were taken between 2008 and 2014.

Sympathy is extended to family and friends of Helen Vavrick of Charlotte who passed away recently at the age of 90. She served as a substitute teacher at Charlotte Central School for a number of years, living first

Classifieds on Lime Kiln Road and later on Spear Street. Her surviving family includes her daughter Kathy O’Brien of Charlotte. The family encourages readers to view a tribute to the care Helen received at the University of Vermont Medical Center, youtu.be/HQnCRk22vAQ. is extended to family and friends of Douglas Moore of Burlington who passed away October 4 at the age of 67. Born in Burlington to Helen Fuller Moore and Allen Chandler Moore, he was raised in Charlotte, attending Charlotte Central School and spending many summers at the family cottage on Thompson’s Point. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a local library. They also encourage those wishing to celebrate his life to read to children and root for the underdog.

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News from the Charlotte Library

The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds By Paul Zindel

CONTRIBUTOR

Upcoming @ the library Wednesdays, octobeR 14 to noveMbeR 18, 3:15 to 4:15 P.M.: Tinker Belles Afterschool Program. See how women are putting S.T.E.A.M. into action on the job. For 3rd–5th graders. Registration required. Call 425-3864 or email charlottelibraryvt@gmail.com.

Foilage and Fall

to be entered to win two tickets to the explosive Pulitzer Prize-winning play

Margaret Woodruff For an institution with a reputation for stodginess and cranky, cardigan-wearing shushers as staff, “the library” gets a lot of play in the media. Either we read that we’re on the cutting edge of the information age or we’re the old-school source for print materials (see John Palfrey’s book, BiblioTech: Why Libraries Matter More Than Ever in the Age of Google, and “Why digital natives prefer reading in print. Yes, you read that right,” Washington Post, February 22, 2015). Here at the Charlotte Library, we are a greedy bunch and we want it all: to be the hub of community technology and information and the popular spot for reading, meeting, discovering and uncovering the world. We are also a fortunate crew here at the library in the support and enthusiasm we receive from our town, providing us with the means and opportunity to attempt this. However, we know there’s always room for improvement, and for that we need your help. We want to hear from you about what we can do, improve, add to and offer that will make our library the community center it should be. We invite you to our next community forum on Tuesday, November 17, at 6:45 p.m. Dessert and coffee will be served to keep us all alert and on task.

page and

Reach your friends and neighbors for only $7 per issue. (Payment must be sent before issue date.) Please limit your ad to 35 words or fewer and send it to The Charlotte News Classifieds, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 or email ads@thecharlottenews.org. Flat Rock FuRnituRe solid hickory dining table w/oak top 40” x 77” and six chairs w/cushions...$1000. Can email photos. joelamiller@gmavt.net 802 759 3246 [58-9] Mt. Philo inn—A unique hotel situated at the base of Mt. Philo State Park with stunning panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. Spacious 3 bedroom suites with 2 bathrooms and a complete kitchen. Thoughtfully designed for casual elegance. Privacy, space, tranquility. Bigger on the inside. MtPhiloInn.com, 425-3335. [58-11] A fresh coat of paint can transform a room instantly. So this fall, call the professionals at laFayette Painting to give your home or office a new look. Call 8635397 and visit us at LafayettePaintingInc. com. [58-7] Redstone Affordable small office spaces available on Ferry Rd. Starting at $250.00 including all utilities. For more information or to schedule a tour call 802-6587400. MaxiM outdooR Wood Pellet FuRnace by Central Boiler adapts to existing heating systems & heats with renewable wood pellets. Boivin Farm Supply 802-475-4007. [58-11]

Directed by Ethan Bowen Starring: Mary Wheeler, Vera Escaja-Heiss, Patty Smith, Chenoah Small and

Charlotte’s own Francesca Blanchard

selling youR Pigs? oFFeRing youR digs?

Town Hall Theater, Middlebury

take out a classiFied!

Performances run: Fri. 10/23 – Sun. 10/25; Thurs. 10/29 – Fri. 10/30 For more information about the play visit townhalltheater.org.

Wednesday, octobeR 28, and Wednesdays, 5 P.M.: Library Knitters. Join us to knit, chat and compare fiber notes; bring a project or we can provide needles and wool to get you started. alteRnate

beginning octobeR 16: Lego Club. Explore the world of Legos with build challenges and DIY time, too. Take the blue bus from CCS. 1st–3rd graders on 10/16 and 11/6, 3: 15 p.m. 4th grade and up on 10/23 and 11/13, 3:15 p.m. thuRsday, octobeR 22, 7 to 9:30 P.M.: Movie: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. A follow-up from the book discussion.

Notices NOTICE OF RESCHEDULED CHARTER VOTE To voters in Charlotte, On October 7 the Selectboard set Town Meeting Day, March 1, 2016—rather than November 3, 2015, as had previously been warned—as the date for a vote on a charter related to the adoption of the annual budget and budget-related articles. So, no vote will be held on November 3, 2015. However, in order to help inform the public regarding the proposed charter, the Selectboard will hold a second public hearing on October 26, 2015, at 6 p.m. at the Charlotte Town Hall, 159 Ferry Road. This meeting was previously warned in accordance with 17 V.S.A. §2645(a)(3). There may be additional hearings as well.

Monday, octobeR 26, 3:15 P.M.: Maker Monday, Magic Bookmarks. Create your own fab bookmark with e-textile technolA public informational hearing will be ogy. For 5th grade and up. held within 10 days of Town Meeting 2016, tuesday, octobeR 27, 6:30 P.M.: in accordance with 17 V.S.A. §2680(g). Marcia Vogler Gallery Talk. Our October The proposed charter in its entirety is artist shares the story behind her collage available for inspection at the Charlotte work, on display at the library through Town Hall during regular office hours, November. Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The charter is also available for review on the town’s website, charlottevt.org.

CorreCtion: In the October 8 issue of The Charlotte News, Joan Büttner’s age was misprinted as 94. Joan was 64 when she died in a tragic accident. We apologize for the error.

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