February 14, 2018 by Polly Lynn

The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018 • 1

Mounta in Times Volume 47, Number 7

Your community free press — really, it’s FREE!

Feb. 14-20, 2018

Courtesy of Northeast Waste Management Officials’ Association

The Sustainable Dairy Summit was held Monday, Feb. 12. The topic: how environmental and agricultural excellence is mutually beneficial.

Value-added dairy products earn more green by going green

Selfie by Jason Mikula

Got the best beard? Vermont Beardies seeks magnificent scruff! Enter the contest to win best Vt. beard! Pages 19

A typical tourist trip to Vermont might include hiking on the Long Trail, skiing at one of our many resorts, fishing for wild brook trout, visiting a farm, and sampling some of the finest cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. People come to Vermont because it represents a vibrant counterpoint to the narrative, so prevalent elsewhere, that agriculture and

the environment cannot coexist. Here in Vermont, environmental and agricultural excellence can be mutually reinforcing. The Sustainable Dairy Products: Northeast Summit, held Monday, Feb. 12, in Norwich, dove into effective strategies to strengthen businesses by going green. Dairy Summit, page 32

Killington Select Board candidates outline platforms By Polly Lynn Mikula

KILLINGTON— Three candidates will face off for the open seat on Killington’s three-person Select Board. Jay Hickory, Kelly Lange and Jim Haff are all running to replace Chris Bianchi, who is not seeking re-election. Chuck Claffey, had originally submitted a petition for the seat as well but has since dropped out, casting his support for Haff. Whoever wins the seat on Town Meeting Day, March 6, will join Steve Finneron and Patty McGrath on the Board.

Q&A with candidates for Killington Select Board

Submitted

Ski season hits half way point Killington Resort hits its halfway point with its 100th day of operation Thursday, Feb. 15. The resort is open about 200 days each year.

Living A.D.E. What’s happening? Find local Arts, Dining & Entertainment Pages 37-51

Mounta in Times

is a community newspaper covering Central Vermont that aims to engage and inform as well as empower community members to have a voice.

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JAY HICKORY Mountain Times: Why are you running for the Select Board? Jay Hickory: I have always been a proponent of serving your community. I think this is a great opportunity to do that and believe strongly that we need an influx of new ideas and maybe even a little common sense when tackling town issues. I have unanswered questions about the current budget and some concerns with town leadership. MT: What is your experience and/or familiarity with Killington town governance? JH: I have lived in Killington for over 30 years and served on the Killington Zoning Board of Adjustment for six years. I do understand all the components and what is expected of a Select Board member; including night meetings, BCA, and an occasional day meeting, trainings, and the public’s ability to contact me at any time with their issues and concerns. To have a strong governing board, we need to make sure that Hickory, page 7

KELLY LANGE Mountain Times: Why are you running for the Select Board? Kelly Lange: I am committed to Killington’s future as a successful resort town with a strong community base. For this to happen, we need: (1) responsible town financial oversight; (2) to provide resources for all community members and (3) strategic planning for maintenance of town infrastructure and assets. With my background of developing solutions to complex health issues for Vermont, serving as vice president of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, and a deep commitment to this community, I am well prepared for the Select Board. MT: What is your experience/ familiarity with Killington town governance? As a resident of Killington, I follow our Select Board, school board and other town activity through local news, conversations with community members, and board minutes. Within our community, the ability to engage and educate yourself on

Lange, page 7

JIM HAFF Mountain Times: Why are you running for the Select Board? Jim Haff: I’m running for the Select Board to provide the voters in the Town of Killington with the correct information to make educated decisions on various town issues. I believe the town needs to understand its current financial position in order to know how to best move forward in whatever direction the voters choose. I’ve been quoted as saying the town has two separate financial books. I want to clarify that statement by saying that I only repeated what the Town Auditor Ron Smith stated at last year’s informational meeting. When Ron was asked what he meant he went on to explain that the town powers have left out chapters of the financial reports. So I am running to bring all outstanding chapters into our financial reporting to the voters so that when we vote we know where we stand. MT: What is your experience/ familiarity with Killington town governance? Haff, page 7

Saliva testing for pot? By Alan J. Keays, VTDigger

A panel of lawmakers voted in favor of a bill that would allow law enforcement officers to use saliva testing to detect the presence of drugs in motorists. The House Transportation Committee approved the bill, H.237, on Friday, Feb. 9, by a vote of 10-0-1. Before it is taken up by the full House, the measure may first be sent to the House Judiciary Committee for further review. The bill was introduced following the passage last month of H.511, legalizing the possession of up to one ounce of pot and the cultivation of two mature and four immature marijuana plants. That bill becomes effective July 1. Prior to voting whether to

“I HOPE IT WILL MAKE IT EASIER TO GET TO TAX AND REGULATED MARIJUANA,” BURKE SAID. “WE NEED THE MONEY FOR EDUCATION.” approve saliva testing Friday, the panel received one last overview of the measure. “We’ve been through it multiple times, taking a great deal of testimony,” Rep. Pat Brennan, R-Colchester, chair of the House Transportation Committee, said Friday after the vote. “I think the key obstacles that anybody would object to are gone.” Supporters of the legislation said the tests are necessary to keep drug-impaired drivers off the road. Opponents of saliva testing say it is overly invasive as well as inaccurate — the testing would indicate the presence of drugs, but not impairment. The American Civil LiberSaliva test, page 3

LOCAL NEWS

2 • The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018

Diane Mueller: On being a partner in the ski industry

By Karen D. Lorentz

Diane Mueller is the sixth about gender. woman to actively operate a Over the first few years at Vermont ski area with her husOkemo, Tim and I promoted band but has done so for longer some very capable women to than most — now in her 36th leadership positions that had season and just two seasons been previously held by men. shy of Suzanne Smith’s 38-year Maybe because Tim and I record at Killington. always look for talented people, Mueller follows Janet Mead, I wasn’t focused on how most 1937-1954, at Pico (solo owner/ people in leadership roles operator after husband’s death across the industry were men. in 1942); June Acker, 1954-1964 I am fortunate to have a hus(solo owner/operator 1956-64); band who isn’t gender-biased Suzanne Smith at Killington, and appreciates what I contrib1958-1996; Betsy Pratt at Mad ute, as well as what everyone River Glen, 1972-1995 (solo else brings to the table in their from 1975); and Susan Plausrespective positions. Are there DIANE MUELLER teiner at Ascutney, 1993-2010. times when Tim gets the credit There when we “I GAVE MYSELF THE TITLE “DIRECTOR OF STUFF” have also are both rebeen a few sponsible? BECAUSE I HATE FORMAL TITLES. female GMs Sure, but at Vermont sometimes areas, including Vice President/ Q&A with Diane Mueller those tables are turned and I get GM Kelly Pawlak at Mount Mountain Times: The ski the credit he deserves. Snow, 2005-2017; VP/GM Gloria industry has traditionally been The two of us live our work as Chadwick at Burke, 1975-1983; a male dominated business, partners and equals, both in the and Genevieve Faherty, VP of so what was it like for you to workplace and at home. We disNortheast Slopes (a surface lift become an owner/operator cuss everything—it’s just part community area) since 2005. working with your husband at of our collaborative leadership As Okemo’s executive vice Okemo? style. It is never about who did president, Mueller is the only Diane Mueller: When Tim what. It is always about did the woman working at the helm of a and I first got to Okemo, I didn’t job get done well. major Vermont ski resort today. realize how male oriented the MT: What has it been like as With her husband Tim, who is ski business was. Even today, I your children grew up in the ski president of Okemo, and their am apt to overlook the fact that I business at Okemo? adult children, she also heads might be the only woman in the DM: As Ethan and Erica up Triple Peaks LLC, which oproom during a meeting. I always became involved in the busierates Mt. Sunapee and Crested think of it as the right people ness, the discussions we had Butte in addition to Okemo. are in the room and don’t think at home over the years turned

into “Mueller Meetings,” they happened around the dinner table, on the phone, in the car, or while hiking in the woods or riding the lift. It is now a family affair with Erica working at Crested Butte and Ethan working with the GMs at all three resorts. MT: What do women bring to the ski business and how would you describe your contributions? DM: By our very nature, women are nurturing, good at multi-tasking—we go to work every day AND take care of the home—and tend to be creative thinkers. Then I throw into that mix my upbringing and talents that have shaped who I am as a person and more specifically my role at Okemo. I gave myself the title “Director of Stuff” because I hate formal titles—so does Tim, but someone has to be the president! As Director of Stuff, I can get involved in whatever “stuff” I want to, and it sure is fun! I think I bring the perspective of a mother, starting as a young mother at age 32 to a grandmother now. I have always tried to think of how mothers are involved in the ski experience. That starts with consideration for their concerns about a sport they know nothing about (when

their husband announces that he is taking the family skiing) and extends to the mothers of teenage racers who are trying to keep up with the kids when skiing and find ways to include their friends in family ski trips. Mothers put the needs of their families first—what do they need to pack? Will they be okay when I drop them off for their lesson? Will they be too tired to try skating at the end of the day? As a mother who happens to be in the ski business, I weigh in on how children’s programs work, how spaces should be decorated so they are appealing to children, and what moms need so they have a great day, too. MT: Does the concern for what families go through extend to staff? DM: Tim and I feel a personal responsibility for our employees—we are the Okemo Family. I care about the people with whom we work and try to stay connected to them. As a member of a large extended family, I care about what is happening in their lives, both at work and at home. And most importantly, we ask, “Is there something we can do to support them?” This is where I get involved in the HR [Human Resources] world. One of the things I think we do really well is employee

Mueller, page 16

LOCAL NEWS

The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018 • 3

By Josh Larkin, VTDigger

From smoke to saliva, tests will tell.

Saliva test:

Faces House opposition

continued from page 1 ties Union (ACLU) of Vermont and the state Office of the Defender General have said they plan to challenge the legislation, should it become law. “They ignored the science and did what they wanted to do,” Defender General Matthew Valerio said Friday of the committee’s action. “The compelling evidence is that saliva testing doesn’t tell you anything about impairment.” Brennan said based on testimony on the bill, he also fully expects the legislation to end up before a judge. “We’ve been promised a court challenge,” he said. “That doesn’t stop us from passing commonsense legislation.” Sen. Dick Sears, D-Bennington, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said Friday that should the legislation pass the House he would expect it would either be sent to the committee he heads or to the Senate Transportation Committee for review. He added that while he’s open to taking a “good hard look” at the proposed bill, he’s not inclined to support it. “Someday I’m sure that there will be a test that determines a level of impairment due to the use of marijuana,” Sears said. “We’re not at that time.” A saliva test, he added, would only show that marijuana or another drug might be in a person’s system. “My understanding is a test doesn’t give us a level of impairment,” Sears said. Vermont Public Safety Commissioner Thomas Anderson testified last month before the House Transportation Committee. He urged the panel to approve the legislation providing law enforcement officers the means to use saliva testing on drivers who are “reasonably suspected” to be drug-impaired. The only way to test now for the presence of drugs in a impaired driver believed to be impaired is a blood test, the public safety commissioner said. The process of obtaining a blood test is time-consuming, often leading to it being administered well after a traffic stop. A saliva test, he told the panel, could be administered immediately. Anderson said non-evidentiary roadside saliva tests would be an added tool for officers to use in trying to determine if a motorist is impaired. If the results of a roadside saliva test are positive for drugs, an evidentiary saliva test would follow. That “confirming” test would be sent to the state laboratory for results. Anderson cautioned that even if enacted immediately, it would still take time to establish the needed rules and procedures for saliva testing. He said, with an expected court challenge, it could be more than a year before the Vermont Supreme Court would rule on whether results from an evidentiary saliva test would be admissible into evidence. The committee heard testimony that there is no scientific standard for determining impairment based on detectable levels of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana. Vermont State Police Lt. John Flannigan, commander of the Vermont State Police’s safety programs, told the committee in his testimony last month that before performing a saliva test, other indicators of impairment will be taken into account.Those indicators include an officer’s observation of a motorist’s driving and that person’s performance on a field sobriety test. The results of the saliva test would not be the only indicator of impairment, but rather a “confirming” indicator, he told the committee. A saliva test would also detect substances other than cannabis, like opiates, Flannigan said. Rep. Mollie Burke, P/D-Brattleboro, said she had planned to oppose the saliva testing legislation. However, after listening to the testimony she said she decided to support it. “One of the other reasons why I voted for it is that I hope it will make it easier to get to tax and regulated marijuana,” Burke said. “We need the money for education.”

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LOCAL NEWS

Report: efforts to restore clean water are paying off A powerful report showcasing the results of public investment in clean water projects during 2017, titled “The Vermont Clean Water Initiative 2017 Investment Report,” was released by the Secretary of Administration. According to a Feb. 6 news release, it shows how public funds are being applied to clean water projects and the impact these dollars are having. “State funds invested in clean water improvement projects more than doubled in 2017. The health of our economy and our communities depends on clean water. This significant increase shows that Vermont is committed to clean water efforts across the state,” said Vermont Secretary of Administration and Clean Water Fund Board Chair Susanne Young. “This investment report paints a picture of how public funds were spent and the results delivered. The report also highlights our commitment to tracking our progress in a way that is transparent and accountable to the public.” The report uses four categories to measure impact. These categories are: • Outreach and technical assistance measured by the level of assistance provided to support clean water projects; • Investment dollars by source, measured by agency, project phase, sector, project match, and location; • Investment made by project phase (planning, design and implementation); • Environmental outcomes measured by the reduction in water pollution “The state agencies leading Vermont’s clean water implementation efforts worked together to develop this report. We wanted to provide Vermonters with an opportunity to see the connection between dollars invested, actions taken, and outcomes

achieved across state programs,” said Julie Moore, secretary of the Agency of Natural Resources. “To make it even easier for the public, we added a new scorecard showing the overall impact of state investment in clean water projects for agriculture, transportation, developed areas, and natural areas. The scorecard also highlights the impact of state funding in each of Vermont’s 13 watersheds.” The report calls out the growing investment in clean water, including: • 100 percent increase in funds invested in agricultural pollution prevention to support water quality and sustain Vermont’s working landscape and agricultural economy; • 150 percent increase in natural resources restoration to improve flood resilience and water quality as well as support outdoor recreation and tourism; • 200 percent increase in state funds to support municipalities in making roads more resilient to flooding as well as controlling road-related runoff; • 40 percent increase in investment to reduce the impacts of stormwater runoff from parking lots and other nonroad related hard surfaces This report shows Vermont’s investment in clean water at the state level. Vermont also leverages an additional $2.5 million in federal funding to improve water quality. Vermonters care deeply about the health of the state’s lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and wetlands. This year’s Clean Water Initiative Investment Report summarizes the results of public investments in clean water and helps Vermonters see the impact of clean water projects in their communities. For more information and details on local regions visit dec.vermont. gov/watershed/cwi/cwf#report.

The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018 • 5

STATE NEWS

Republican leader proposes drug testing for welfare recipients

By Alan J. Keays, VTDigger

House Minority Leader issue. invasion of privacy of those Rep. Don Turner is proposJames Duff Lyall, execuin the Reach Up program. ing a bill that would allow tive director of the Ameri“If they are accepting for drug testing of people can Civil Liberties Union the assistance, I think there receiving financial as(ACLU) of Vt., said the should be some conditions sistance through a state proposal was retrograde. before receiving this asprogram for low-income “This is essentially a sistance,” Turner said. “We families. blast from the past, one owe it to our constituents to If a test make sure comes back we can give “I THINK THERE SHOULD BE SOME positive for people help, CONDITIONS BEFORE RECEIVING an illegal but to make substance, sure that it’s THIS ASSISTANCE,” TURNER SAID. a person in not being the state’s abused.” Reach Up program could from a different era and The bill seeks to require continue to receive state one most of the country is the state’s Department for assistance provided they ready to move on from,” Children and Families to take part in drug treatment, Lyall said. “So much effort screen applicants of the according to Turner, Ris moving in the opposite Reach Up program for poMilton, the bill’s sponsor. direction, toward providing tential substance abuse. If “If we’re going to make a treatment instead of punan applicant screens posiserious attempt at helping ishment, and away from tive, the bill calls for DCF to people with addictions, punishing people who can test that person for illegal this is another way to reach least afford it. It strikes us as substances. out to them,” Turner said a misguided effort.” If an applicant refuses to Tuesday, Feb. 6. Similar measures have take a drug test, that person The bill, H.866, has been proposed by House would not be eligible for been referred to the House Republican members in Reach Up benefits, accordHuman Services Commitpast legislative sessions, ing to the bill. The Reach tee. Turner said he didn’t but lacked the support Up applicants would be believe that the measure needed to move forward. offered substance abuse would ultimately pass the Responding to a comtreatment at no cost if test Democratic controlled mon criticism of the results are positive for the Legislature, but thought it proposal, Turner said he use of illicit drugs or prewas important to raise the didn’t believe it would be an scription drugs being used

illegally. An applicant in treatment will be eligible for Reach Up benefits, but will be dropped if treatment is not completed. If an applicant’s benefits are terminated, his/or her children would not be dropped. Instead, the applicant would need to “designate a protective payee to receive the benefits on behalf of the dependent child or children,” according to the proposal. DCF Deputy Commissioner Sean Brown said the Reach Up program serves 3,835 households and 9,033 individuals, while the Reach Ahead program, which assists those transitioning to employment, serves 577 households and 1,775 people. The average monthly financial benefit for a three-person household is $650, Brown said. “We do have some concerns as far as its impacts on low-income families,” he said of the bill. “It might discourage them from coming into the program to help support their kids.”

Special education students could be better served for less, studies say

Health Care advocate releases affordability report

By Tiffany Danitz Pache, VTDigger

Vermont students needing special one. education could be better served for less “The financial changes are only posmoney, according to two studies commissible if you change the way you serve kids,” sioned by the Legislature. he said, adding it would take three to four Lawmakers will use the studies to craft years of high level effort to change educanew approaches to delivering and funding tional practices. special education services. University of Vermont researchers The studies were conducted by the found that the state pays, on average, an University of Vermont and by the District additional $22,000 per special education Management student per Group, (DMG) year, twice VERMONT SPENDS MORE PER a Massachuwhat it would SPECIAL ED STUDENT THAN ANY setts-based be paying if consultancy the state were OTHER STATE IN THE NATION… specializing more in line THE STATE PAYS, ON AVERAGE, AN in improving with national public educaestimates. ADDITIONAL $22,000 PER SPECIAL tion. But the EDUCATION STUDENT PER YEAR. The UVM authors of the study, which report also focused on funding, found that while said what the state is paying is appropriate Vermont is similar to other New England for what is happening in the classrooms. states in the number of students identified Current dollars reflect current practices, as needing special educational help, Versaid Tammy Kolbe, one of the authors of mont spends more per special ed student UVM’s “Study of Vermont State Funding for than any other state in the nation. Special Education.” “Let me be really clear, The District Management Group study, we do not need to cut special education,” of special education practices in Vermont, Kolbe said. found that changes in how schools identify Kolbe said changing educational pracand meet the needs of struggling students tices would reduce costs over time. The — earlier intervention, and employing UVM study has estimated it would take more highly skilled teachers — could the state five years to set a new course for improve student achievement without special education. increasing the cost. “These are our most vulnerable … stuThe two studies were commissioned dents,” Kolbe said in an interview with VTto follow up on the findings of the Picus Digger. “If there is any indication we should report, a 300-page examination of Verreduce spending on that population we mont education and spending. Among the should do that very carefully to meet our report’s findings was that while the state legal obligations to these students.” is overspending on education generally, Paraeducator model “has not served special education expenditures are parstudents well” ticularly high. Levenson told lawmakers at a hearing Nate Levenson, president of the District last week that special education students, Management Group, said the findings of who have an Individual Education Prothe two studies should be considered as gram, could get the help they need at a

On Feb. 7, the Office of the Health Care Advocate (HCA) released a report demonstrating the affordability crisis that Vermonters face when purchasing health insurance and health care. In the report, “The Cost of Health Insurance: Quantifying the Vermont Affordability Crisis,” the HCA assesses the affordability of health insurance on Vermont Health Connect and shows that many Vermonters cannot afford health insurance. The HCA’s report demonstrates that health insurance plans offered on Vermont Health Connect are unaffordable to a wide range of Vermonters. Together, the HCA’s three methodologies reveal the severity of the health care affordability crisis in Vermont. Chief Health Care Advocate Mike Fisher said “as health care costs rise, many Vermonters must make the heart-breaking choice between paying for health care and paying for basic needs like food and housing. This is particularly relevant given the Governor’s budget proposal to increase out of pocket costs for low income families by cutting the Vermont cost

Special ed, page 29

Healthcare, page 28

Table of contents Opinion...................................................................... 6 Calendar..................................................................... 8 Music Scene............................................................. 11 Just For Fun.............................................................. 12 Rockin’ the Region................................................... 13 News Briefs.............................................................. 14 Pets........................................................................... 24 Mother of the Skye................................................... 25 Columns................................................................... 26 Service Directory..................................................... 28 Lift Lines................................................................... 30 Classifieds................................................................ 31 Real Estate................................................................ 32 Living A.D.E.............................................................. 37 Food Matters............................................................ 53

Mounta in Times The Mountain Times is an independently owned weekly newspaper serving residents of, and visitors to Central Vermont Region. Our offices are located at 5465 Route 4, Sherburne Flats, Killington, Vt. ©The Mountain Times 2015 The Mountain Times • P.O. Box 183 Killington, VT 05751

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6 • The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018

opinion

OP-ED

An antidote for a shrinking workforce By Tom Torti

It was heartening to hear Gov. Phil Scott announce a new program to attract young people to live and work in Vermont during his Jan. 23 budget address. Employers and business leaders across the state will tell you that strengthening Vermont’s economy depends upon reversing current demographic trends of an aging population and rapidly shrinking workforce. We must ensure that young families are able to afford living and working in our state. It is clear that the governor and his administration has made this issue a centerpiece of their agenda. So how do we get young people to consider moving to Vermont and raising their families here? How do we keep the talented young Vermonters with the skills employers need from moving out of state and taking their potential elsewhere? When workers with young families are considering opportunities, a key item on their “checklist” is the availability of high-quality, affordable child care. Vermont’s child care shortage is a serious deterrent for workers with young children looking to settle down and establish careers. As the Chamber works to attract businesses not only to Chittenden County but across the state, more and more companies are asking about the quality of our school systems and the availability of high quality child care. The inquiry is no longer unique—it has become the norm.

A KEY ITEM ON THEIR “CHECKLIST” IS THE AVAILABILITY OF HIGH-QUALITY, AFFORDABLE CHILD CARE. Almost half of Vermont infants and toddlers likely to need care don’t have access to regulated child care programs and nearly 80 percent don’t have access to highquality programs. In addition, child care is unaffordable for many families. In 2016 for Vermont households with two young children and two working parents, child care was the single biggest budget item — more expensive than housing, food, transportation or health care. Vermont parents are forced to drop out of the workforce because they can’t find or afford quality child care while, at the same time, businesses struggle to attract and retain skilled workers. Even when parents are able to juggle family and work, productivity and focus can suffer due to the stress of paying for child care or worrying about their children during work because they were unable to find an ideal child care situation. Increasing access to high-quality, affordable child care not only addresses Vermont’s workforce challenge, it’s an investment with long-term benefits to the economy overall. In 2017 a Vermont Business Roundtable report found that expanding Vermont’s early care and learning system would reap net benefits of $3.08 for every $1 invested, which would accrue to $1.3 billion in net benefits to Vermont’s economy over the working lifetime of the children served. Growing Vermont’s workforce and economy begins with investing in our youngest citizens. We cannot hope to be a destination state for the country’s best and brightest if we don’t ensure the families who already live here can afford to give their children the strongest start possible. Increasing access to affordable, quality child care must be a cornerstone of any economic development strategy. Tom Torti is the president of the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Write a letter The Mountain Times encourages readers to contribute to our community paper by writing letters to the editor, or commentaries. Because we believe that accountability makes for responsible debate, please include your full name, address, and phone number for verification. Only your full name will be printed. The opinions expressed in letters are not endorsed nor are the facts verified by the Mountain Times. We ask submissions to be 300 words or less. All submissions are printed at the editor’s discretion and may be edited. Email letters to editor@mountaintimes.info.

Trump Valentine’s Day selfie

By RJ Matson, Roll Call

LETTERS

Governor: Withdrawing from NAFTA would hurt Vermont Dear Editor, I am writing to you today to ask for your help protecting and expanding Vermont’s economy. As you know, the Trump Administration is currently negotiating the nation’s participation in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Vermonters enjoy a close and critical relationship

tion of over 4,200 Vermont jobs. Additionally, termination of the trade agreement would cause Vermont’s economic output to fall by over $200 million. Our communities and employers simply cannot afford these impacts. I am asking you to join me in making your voice heard. Please contact

QUEBEC IS VERMONT’S LARGEST TRADING PARTNER WITH $5 BILLION IN TRADE ANNUALLY. with our Canadian neighbors. In fact, the province of Quebec is Vermont’s largest trading partner with $5 billion in trade annually. That’s why my administration has made strengthening our relationship with Canada an important economic priority, and we’re already seeing results. I have long advocated, along with fellow governors and Canadian premiers, that we should focus on modernizing and strengthening NAFTA, not withdrawing from it. A recent study by the Business Roundtable suggests withdrawing from NAFTA would result in the elimina-

the Office of the United States Trade Representative by emailing correspondence@ustr.eop.gov and let them know how important NAFTA is to Vermont, your organizations and communities. Failing to renew the United States’ commitment to NAFTA would undermine our businesses’ ability to compete in this increasingly competitive global marketplace. Thank you for reaching out to our federal partners to express your support for renewing the nation’s participation in NAFTA. Sincerely, Governor Phil Scott

Abstain from Common ground can be eating animals Dear Editor, found Feb. 14 marks the Dear Editor, It would be an understatement to say that polite political conversation is at an all time low in the United States. The last time political differences were so extreme in our republic were just prior to the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. Then, as we know, all hell broke loose on American soil. I keep searching for some common ground between the factions of left and right, Democrats and Republicans. While listening to conversations originating from the most extreme sides of the political spectrum I have found two common denominators that unite average Americans and Vermonters. These beliefs in common could bring some fresh oxygen into the room. The first thing we all seem to have in common is the desire for term limits. The base of each party, the average Joe or Jane, appear to agree that the power structures created by career politicians do nothing for the economic Common ground, page 21

beginning of Lent, the 40day period before Easter, when Christians abstain from animal foods in remembrance of Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the wilderness. The call to abstain from eating animals is as current as the teaching of evangelical leader Franklin Graham, yet as traditional as the Bible (Genesis 1:29). Methodist founder John Wesley, Salvation Army pioneers William and Catherine Booth, and Seventh-day Adventist Church founder Ellen G. White all followed this higher call. A meat-free diet is not just about Christian devotion. Dozens of medical studies have linked consumption of animal products with elevated risk of heart failure, stroke, cancer, and other killer diseases. A United Nations report named meat production as the largest source of greenhouse gases and water pollution. Undercover investigations have documented farm animals routinely caged, crowded, Meat-free, page 21

CAPITOL QUOTES “When a person has paid their debt by virtue of a criminal conviction, that should be finite, that they shouldn’t keep paying by virtue of being saddled with the conviction.” Said Robert Sand, director of the Vermont Law School’s Center for Justice Reform, as lawmakers are considering legislation that would fast-track the process for expunging misdemeanor marijuana convictions.

“I am deeply disappointed that the president failed to include dedicated broadband funding in his infrastructure proposal. This glaring omission is a betrayal of the rural voters that supported him in his election, and a missed opportunity to close the digital divide that separates rural and urban America. A robust rural broadband network is essential to attract businesses, provide access to healthcare through telemedicine, help farmers become more efficient, and close the homework gap that hamstrings rural students.” Said Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) in statement Monday, Feb. 12, regarding the president’s infrastructure proposal.

“From talking with dairy leaders in Vermont, I know that without immediate changes to protect farmers in these difficult times we will be facing a crisis situation.” Said U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) Thursday, Feb. 8, announcing that he has secured significant improvements to a key dairy safety net program. Effective for calendar year 2018, the changes would offer farmers a chance to select meaningful levels of risk protection at more affordable rates. For some family dairy farms, protection costs could drop by 70 percent or more.

“The Trump budget introduced today is morally bankrupt and bad economic policy. During the campaign, Donald Trump promised that the wealthy would not get a tax break and that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid would not be cut. But his budget does the exact opposite of what Trump pledged to the American people ...This budget is nothing less than a major transfer of wealth from the middle class and working families to the top 1 percent and large corporations...” Said U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, in a statement Monday, Feb. 12, after President Donald Trump released his budget proposal.

The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018 • 7

Hickory:

Lange:

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everyone has a voice and is heard. MT: What is one of the main things that is NOT working well, in your opinion, under the current leadership? How would you change it? I have unanswered questions about the current budget and some concerns with town leadership. I also have concerns with Green Mountain National Golf Course and feel that the golf pro and manager should be two different people. I feel that there are a number of things that can be done differently to make it run more efficiently. MT: What is something that is currently working well in your opinion and how would you bolster that? Town management begins at the top. I have great respect for the support employees of the town and think that it is imperative that they be involved in the hiring process for leadership and other positions. We have a great team of employees who love this town and want to see us be the best we can be. MT: What do you want voters to know about you that they might not already? I was born and grew up in Bridgewater, Vt., and have lived in Killington with my wife and raised three children in the town for over 30 years. I work as a plant manager at Vermod, a company that builds high efficiency, net zero modular homes. I owned my own business for several years, and have worked for several people in Killington. I have been fortunate enough to donate my time and expertise to help the Rotary Club renovate a town resident’s home after his skiing accident so he was able to return home. Along with other small jobs for other townspeople, it has been an honor to be part of this community and to be able to help others when needed.

the issues is important and can occur within formal and informal settings. I take advantage of all information sources. MT: What is one of the main things that is NOT working well, in your opinion, under the current leadership? How would you change it? I am really proud that our community has joined together to focus on being a successful four-season resort town. With this commitment, we need strategic planning to ensure we leverage our assets, while maintaining sufficient capital and reserve funds to support maintenance and investment in our infrastructure and services. We are at the moment where we must reevaluate our town finances and debt obligations, managing our funds and assessing revenue in the most efficient and productive manner. MT: What is something that is currently working well in your opinion and how would you bolster that? Our town is successfully becoming a true resort town. The increase in tourism dollars is enabling broader year round employment. This progress clearly demonstrates what can occur when the community works together with a common goal. While the resort offerings have expanded so have the town assets, such as mountain biking. Such development of our assets not only aids tourism but more importantly encourages workers to stay in town and become residents. MT: What do you want voters to know about you that they might not already? Many people know I enjoy the outdoors and coaching in the children’s Future Stars program for the Killington Ski Club. What may not be clear is my background experiences and education that will serve as important tools should I become a Select Board member. I’m a former teacher and dean of students, an attorney and now director of health care reform at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont with experience in regulatory and employment matters, budget development, grant writing and management. My proudest role is being vice president of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports Board. Serving this community organization has been extremely fulfilling. It has provided me the opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills and gain experience in budgeting and strategic planning, while helping my community.

JM: Where do I start? I’ve sat on the Killington Select Board , I’ve been involved with Killington pre-K and Killington Elementary School, I’ve sat on the Rutland Regional Planning Commission, and I’ve filled in as town health officer. Currently, I am one of two Killington representatives for the middle school/ high school board and I’m the chair of the finance committee for that board. Additionally, I sit on the buildings and grounds subcommittee of the middle school/high school and I also sit on the new Act 46 MUUD (Modified Unified Union District) board and have been appointed to the Act 46 MUUD finance committee. As for familiarity, I’ve been active with Killington governance since 2006. I believe that town government has one set of obligations to its voters and tax payers for: public safety, roads/highways, schools, parks and recreation (which include programs for ages 0-infinity, and also the golf course), and the town library. I believe if our town takes care of these issues, it’s done its job. I understand how property appraisals affect Town revenues and the budgets, and I’m familiar with Act 60/68 and Act 46, all of which significantly impact your taxes. Along with that, I believe that if businesses want to succeed, then businesses should invest in themselves. Voters and businesses have come around to this idea — as exemplified in the repealed the 1 percent sales tax, which passed last year. MT: What is one of the main things that is NOT working well, in your opinion, under the current leadership? How would you change it? Again, the town needs accurate and fair reporting from Town Hall (i.e. all chapters must be included in the Town report). MT: What is something that is currently working well in your opinion and how would you bolster that? It’s hard to say when not all the chapters have been included in the finances that we are making decisions on. But such chapters are finally starting to appear, such as: the FEMA debt does really exist, and lack of funding for the infrastructure of the golf course. I’d bolster our town by including all the chapters and taking care of the above issues. MT: What do you want voters to know about you that they might not already? I really am a nice guy! I have an issue when numbers state one thing and others try to argue against those objective truths.

Vote at Town Meeting, March 6 Town Meeting voting, March 6, will be by Australian ballot. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. at the Killington Town Office, 2706 River Road. Absentee Ballots are available after Feb. 9. The informational meeting will be held March 5 at the Killington Elementary School gym. The School District meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. and the informational meeting at 7 p.m. with a pasta dinner fundraiser served in between.

CALENDAR

8 • The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018

WHAT TO DO IN CENTRAL VERMONT Pop Up Dinner

6 p.m. Brandon Music presents Valentine’s Day pop-up dinner by Chef Vicky Regia. Three-course meal with holiday theme. Reservations at 802-2474295, info@brandon-music.net. $45/ person. 62 Country Club Rd., Brandon.

Richard James’ Krewe Orleans

8 p.m. Richard James’ Krewe Orleans: A Mardi Gras Experience fills the Pickle Barrel Nightclub with the music and spirit of New Orleans. Tickets at the door, at JAX, or Pickle Barrel prior. picklebarrelnightclub.com. Midway on Killington Road.

Free Knitting Class

RUTLAND WINTER FEST 2018 FEB. 16-24

WEDNESDAY FEB. 14 Valentine’s Day

Ash Wednesday Bikram Yoga **

6 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Wednesdays: 6 a.m. 60-min. Bikram; 11 a.m. inferno hot pilates; 4:30 p.m. 60-min. hot power flow; 6:15 p.m. 90-min Bikram. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt

9 a.m. Red hearts hidden along the trails at Okemo Mountain Resort. Find them to redeem for prizes. All day, resort-wide. okemo.com.

Ski Bum Race Series

10 a.m. Ski Bum Race Series at Killington Resort, on Highline Trail at K1 happens on Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Local teams of skiers and snowboarders and telemark skiers race down Highline in pursuit of Ski Bum Glory. Registered competitors only, and after party follows. Info, killington.com.

Co ur tes yo f Ru tlan d Rec

& Parks Dept

6:30 p.m. Free knitting classes at Plymouth Community Center, by Barbara Wanamaker. Bring yarn and needles, U.S. size 7 or 8 bamboo needles recommended, and one skein of medium weight yarn in light or medium color. RSVP to bewanamaker@gmail.com, 802-396-0130. 35 School Drive, Plymouth.

THURSDAY FEB. 15

Bikram Yoga **

6 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Thursdays: 6 a.m. & 6:15 p.m. inferno hot pilates; 9 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. 90-min. Bikram. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

Killington Bone Builders

10 a.m. Bone builders meets at Sherburne Memorial Library, 2998 River Rd., Killington, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Free, weights supplied. For info, 802-422-3368.

Mendon Bone Builders

10 a.m. Mendon bone builders meets Thursdays at Roadside Chapel, 1680 Townline Rd, Rutland Town. Info, 802-7732694.

Sleigh Ride Week

10 a.m. Billings Farm & Museum holds Sleigh Ride Week, Feb. 10-25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., featuring horse-drawn sleigh rides, tours of dairy farm, and family activities each day. Admission. 69 Old River Rd., Woodstock. billingsfarm.org.

Mother Up! Day

11 a.m. Mother Up! Climate Action day at Vermont State House. Come together to let state legislators know that not only is climate change a top priority, now is the time to lead the way with bold climate solutions. 11 a.m. meeting with Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman. 12 p.m. presentation to the Climate Solutions Caucus, and being recognized on the House floor at 1 pm. All are welcome to join. 115 State St, Montpelier.

Thirsty Thursday Races

1 p.m. Pico Mountain’s Thirsty Thursday Fun Race Series, Thursdays through March 15, 1-3 p.m. on Lower Pike or Exhibition. Details at picomountain. com.

CCV Job Hunt Helper

3 p.m. CCV Job Hunt Helper Joe Alford will be available at Rutland Free Library, 3-5 p.m. to help job seekers find employment: writing resume and cover letter, apply for jobs online, assess skills and interests, use internet to explore career options, and learn about education and training programs. 10 Court St., Rutland. 802-773-1860.

Snowshoeing and Libations

FRIDAY FEB. 16

Great Backyard Bird Count

Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count from anywhere in the world for at least 15 minutes on one or more days, Feb. 16-19, and log results. Info, birdcount.org.

Bikram Yoga **

6 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Fridays: 6 a.m. 60-min. hot power flow; 11 a.m. 60-min. Bikram; 4:30 p.m. inferno hot pilates. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

Open Swim **

8 a.m. Enjoy the warm water at Mitchell Therapy Pool at Vermont Achievement Center, 88 Park St., Rutland: 8-9 a.m.; 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call for more times & info, 802-773-7187.

Level 1 Yoga

8:30 a.m. Level 1 Hatha Yoga at Killington Yoga with Karen Dalury, RYT 500. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

Pico Hiko Splitfest

9 a.m. Pico Hiko Splitfest at Pico Mountain, from first timers to seasoned vets, try complete splitboard demos, with everything from boards and bindings, to poles, packs and skins available to test. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Killington Pico Uphill Travel pass required. Sign up for this event at picohiko18.eventbrite.com.

Sleigh Ride Week

The Vermont Flurry

10 a.m. Woodstock snow sculpture festival, the Vermont Flurry, Feb. 16-18 on the Village Green, Woodstock. Huge blocks of ice will be sculpted into amazing artwork. Sculpting going on all weekend. Free, open to the public to cheer on teams. Vote for People’s Choice until Feb. 18, with pick announced at 12:30 p.m. that day. Weather dependent, can be cancelled on short notice. pentanglearts.org to confirm.

Story Time

10:30 a.m. Sherburne Memorial Library holds story time Fridays, 10:30-11 a.m. Join for stories, songs, activities. Babies and toddlers welcome! Info, 802-422-9765.

Kripalu Yoga

11 a.m. Kripalu yoga, gentle flow at Just Dance, Center St., Rutland. First class free. louiseharrison.com, 802-747-8444.

Osher Series

1:30 p.m. Osher Lifelong Learning series at Godnick Adult Center, Fridays, 1:30-3 p.m. February focus on Vermont and ever-changing status: landscape, culture, politics, and more. $5 per lecture; $40 for membership. Info, learn. uvm.edu/osher or 802-422-2921.

10 a.m. Kripalu yoga with Louise Harrison at Just Dance, Center St., Rutland. First class free. louiseharrison.com, 802-747-8444.

3:45 p.m. Greater Killington Women’s Club holds Snowshoeing and Libations event at Killington Grand Hotel, with Bear Trax Adventures leading the excursion. $15 members; $20 guests. RSVP to evite.me/Ax6RFFAZd6. Space is limited. Hors d’oeuvres at Preston’s available, plus cash bar.

Magic: the Gathering

CCV Job Hunt Helper

Level 2 Yoga

Pop Up Dinner

RYP Mixer

Bingo

Kripalu Yoga

10 a.m. CCV Job Hunt Helper Joe Alford will be available at Rutland Free Library, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. to help job seekers find employment: writing resume and cover letter, apply for jobs online, assess skills and interests, use internet to explore career options, and learn about education and training programs. 10 Court St., Rutland. 802-773-1860.

Sleigh Ride Week

Rutland Wellness

5 p.m. Education and support for people who are struggling emotionally. Focus on tools and methods for improving our lives mentally and physically. Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m., Grace Congregational Church, 8 Court St., Rutland. 802-353-4365.

Gentle/Restorative Yoga

5:30 p.m. Gentle Restorative Yoga at Killington Yoga with Louise Harrison. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

V-Day Date Night

5:30 p.m. Valentine’s Day Date Night with Killington Art Garage and Killington Diner. Couples sip & paint at KAG at 5:30 p.m. Four-course dinner and a rose at K. Diner follows. A romantic evening of art and dinner. $75/ person. Limited seating, rsvp to artgaragevt.com.

Rotary Meeting

6 p.m. The Killington-Pico Rotary club cordially invites visiting Rotarians, friends and guests to attend its weekly meeting. The club meets Wednesdays at the Summit Lodge 6-8 p.m. for a full dinner and fellowship. Call 802-7730600 to make a reservation. Dinner fee $19. KillingtonPicoRotary.org

5:30 p.m. Level 2 Flow Yoga at Killington Yoga Karen Dalury, E-RYT 500. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500. 6 p.m. Rutland Young Professionals hold monthly mixer at Stafford Technical Center, 6-8 p.m. Learn about tech center’s career education programs with student tour guides. Apps provided by culinary arts program. Free. rutlandyoungprofessionals.org. 8 Stratton Rd., Rutland.

Adult Soccer

7 p.m. Adult Soccer at Killington Elementary School, 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays. $2. Nonmarking gym sneakers please. Info, killingtontown.com.

Interplay Jazz Jam

7 p.m. ArtisTree presents Interplay Jazz Jam, 7-10 p.m. Jazz lovers join for a musical treat, like open rehearsal where anything can happen, but music is guaranteed to be fabulous. 2095 Pomfret Rd., So. Pomfret. artistreevt.org.

Man in Red Bandana

7 p.m. Castleton University’s men’s lacrosse team presents Vt. premiere of documentary film “Man in Red Bandana” in Casella Theater. Film chronicles the actions of Welles Romy Crowther, former Boston College lacrosse player, who helped saved lives during 9-11, before losing his own. 62 Alumni Drive, Castleton.

“13th” Screening

7:30 p.m. Pentangle’s free documentary film series presents showing of “13th” by Ava DuVernay. In-depth look at prison system in the U.S. and how it reveals nation’s history of racial inequality. Free, donations gratefully accepted. 31 the Green, Woodstock.

** denotes multiple times and/or locations.

3:15 p.m. Sherburne Memorial Library holds Magic: the Gathering Fridays, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Ages 8+, all levels welcome. 2998 River Rd., Killington. 422-9765. 6 p.m. Brandon Music presents Chinese New Year pop-up dinner by Chef Vicky Regia. Five-course meal with holiday theme. Reservations at 802-247-4295, info@brandon-music.net. $45/ person. 62 Country Club Rd., Brandon. 6 p.m. Maple Valley Grange holds bingo. Doors open 6 p.m., games start 7 p.m. Food available. Dugway Rd., S. Wallingford. Info, 802-353-4651,

Family Owl Prowl

6:30 p.m. VINS presents a Family Owl Prowl, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Discover the secrets of the elusive nocturnal residents at VINS, weather permitting, with outside exploring on snowshoes. Warm up with hot cocoa after. $16 general public, $12.50 VINS members. 6565 Woodstock Rd., Quechee.

Rutland Winter Fest

6:30 p.m. Rutland Winter Fest 2018, Feb. 16-24. Tonight, free community skate night at Giorgetti Arena, 2 Oak St. Ext., Rutland. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free rentals, snacks, and hot cocoa bar.

Brighton Beach Memoirs

7:30 p.m. BarnArts presents Neil Simon’s “Brighton Beach Memoirs” at the Grange Theatre, 65 Stage Rd., So. Pomfret. Tickets $15-$18 adults; $10-$12 students. Info, tickets at barnarts.org.

Tinmouth Contra Dance

8 p.m. Contra dance at Tinmouth Community Center, 573 Rt. 140, Tinmouth. Dance to the Cold River Band, with calling by Lausanne Allen. 8-11 p.m. Dances taught; partner not needed. Beginners come at 8 p.m. for lesson. Refreshments. Admissions $8-12; free under age 12. Info, tinmouthcontradance.org.

The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018 • 9

Chef’s: A Sizzling Showdown

8 p.m. Hilarious hunks spice things up in the kitchen, with high-stakes culinary challenges: if they lose, they lose their shirt ... then maybe more. Vote for the winner, and maybe join them onstage for cooking demos. Tickets $34, paramountvt.org. Paramount Theatre, 30 Center St., Rutland.

SATURDAY Bikram Yoga **

FEB. 17

7:30 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Saturdays: 7:30 a.m. 60-min. Bikram; 9 a.m. 90-min. Bikram; 4:30 p.m. inferno hot pilates. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

Coiled Paper Craft

9 a.m. Friends of the Fair Haven Library hold program, make a bowl from coiled magazine paper with artist Caren Helm. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Instructions and all materials - except tacky glue, please bring - included. Limited space, RSVP to 802-265-8011. 107 N. Main St., Fair Haven.

Gun Show

9 a.m. New England Events presents a gun show at The Fireside Inn, West Lebanon, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $9 admission. 603-230-9014. 125 tables. Just off I-89, exit 20, Airport Road.

Open Gym

10 a.m. Saturday morning open gym at Head Over Heels, 152 North Main St., Rutland. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. All ages welcome. First time is free! Practice current skills, create gymnastic routines, learn new tricks, social opportunity to be with friends! $10/ hour for members; $14/ hour for non-members. Info, 802-773-1404.

Killington Section GMC

10 a.m. Killington Section Green Mountain Club outing: West Haven Wandering. Follows field lanes and cross pastures through the Nature Conservancy’s Buckner Preserve to abandoned farm. Round trip, 3 miles, little climbing. Optional visits to hard-to-find cemeteries. Hike, xc ski or snowshoe, depending on conditions. Meet at 10 a.m. at Rutland’s Main Street Park, near firehouse, to carpool. Details at 802-293-2510.

Kids’ Art Workshop

10 a.m. Kids wind chime workshop at Killington Art Garage, ages 10+. Create a snowman wind chime using a flower pot. $30 includes materials and instruction. Registration required, 802-422-8844, artgaragevt.com. 2841 Killington Rd., Killington.

Sleigh Ride Week

Great Backyard Bird Count

10 a.m. VINS joins the world-wide Great Backyard Bird Count with activities: Bird Count headquarters, games, bird ID and binoculars, raptor programs, guided bird walks, build a nest box, and more. VINS open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Check vinsweb.org for program details. 6565 Woodstock Rd., Quechee.

Mud Season Auditions

OMS Winter Festival

7 p.m. 8th annual Okemo Mountain School Winter Festival at Willie Dunn’s Restaurant at Okemo Valley Golf Club. 7-10 p.m. $25 advance at OMS or okemomountainschool.org; $30 at the door. Wine, cheese, beer, local food sampling/tasting; plus cash bar and a silent auction.

The Vermont Flurry

Brighton Beach Memoirs

Rutland Winter Fest

10 a.m. Rutland Winter Fest 2018, Feb. 16-24. Today, Snow Sculpture Contest in Main Street Park, Rutland, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Teams create masterpieces, spectators encouraged to cheer on! Winners announced at 2:30 p.m. Other activities in the park: Kids can create snow creatures, marshmallow toasting, broomball, ice skating (BYO skates/helmet), Chili Cookoff with free tastings (12-3 p.m.). Route 4 & 7, Rutland.

Love Your Library

10:30 a.m. Norman Williams Public Library holds Love Your Library event. Come share in celebration of the library, the heart of Woodstock’s community. Refreshments and docent tours. Free library cards for non-Woodstock residents. 10 the Green, Woodstock.

Bridge Club

12 p.m. Marble Valley Duplicate Bridge Club meets at Godnick Center Saturdays, 12-4 p.m. Sanctioned duplicate bridge games. Info, 802-228-6276. 1 Deer St., Rutland. Please join.

Weekly Alcohol Inks Workshop

1 p.m. Join Killington Art Garage in exploring alcohol inks. YUPO paper to ceramic tiles, all pieces are unique. No experience necessary. $40 includes all materials and instructions. Registration required at artgaragevt.com or 802422-8844. 2841 Killington Road, Killington.

Happy Hour Yoga

4:30 p.m. Happy Hour Yoga at Killington Yoga , 3744 River Rd, Killington. $10 drop in. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

Year of the Dog Art

4:30 p.m. Join Killington Art Garage for Year of the Dog: Paint Your Dog event. 16x20 canvas. $40 includes all materials and instructions. BYOB, light nosh served. Seats limited, registration required at artgaragevt.com or 802-4228844. 2841 Killington Road, Killington. 5 p.m. Enjoy the warm water at Mitchell Therapy Pool at Vermont Achievement Center, 88 Park St., Rutland: Tues., Thurs., Saturday 5-7 p.m. Call for more times & info, 802-773-7187.

Bingo

5:30 p.m. Bridgewater Grange Bingo, Saturday nights, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Games start 6:30 p.m. Route 100A, Bridgewater Corners. Just across bridge from Junction Country Store. All welcome. Refreshments available.

By Adrian Tans

Open Gym

6 p.m. Friday night open gym at Head Over Heels, 152 North Main St., Rutland. 6-7:30 p.m. Ages 6+. First time is free! Practice current skills, create gymnastic routines, learn new tricks, social opportunity to be with friends! $10/ hour for members; $14/ hour for non-members. Info, 802-773-1404.

Madama Butterfly

7 p.m. Compass Music and Arts Foundation and Barn Opera present “Madama Butterfly” at Brandon Music, an invite-only performance. Cash bar at 7 p.m.; performance at 7:30 p.m. Invitations available by making a $50 donation online at goo.gl/C2YD2F or 802-247-4295. Limited to first 50. 62 Country Club Rd., Brandon.

FEB. 16-19

7 p.m. The amazing a cappella and beatboxing show with traditional street-corner harmonies to cutting-edge multi-track live looping, live at Paramount Theatre, 30 Center St., Rutland. Tickets $32, paramountvt.org.

10 a.m. Mud Season Variety Show returns to Chandler Music Hall in April, a community wide talent showcase. Auditions today starting at 10 a.m. Sign up for a slot at janet@chandler-arts.org or 802-728-9402.

Open Swim

THE VERMONT FLURRY

Gobsmacked

LOVE

7 p.m. FEARless presents “LOVE” at ArtisTree. Show at 7 p.m. Dance party at 8:30 p.m. $13 at the door. 2095 Pomfret Rd., So. Pomfret. artistreevt.org.

7:30 p.m. BarnArts presents Neil Simon’s “Brighton Beach Memoirs” at the Grange Theatre, 65 Stage Rd., So. Pomfret. Tickets $15-$18 adults; $10-$12 students. Info, tickets at barnarts.org.

Torchlight Parade and Fireworks

7:30 p.m. Okemo holds pyrotechnics show at 7:30 p.m. in Clock Tower base area, followed by torchlight parade of skiers and riders traversing Open Slope trail. okemo.com.

SUNDAY Bikram Yoga **

JAN. 18

9 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Sundays: 9 a.m. 90-min. Bikram; 11 a.m. inferno hot pilates; 4:30 p.m. 60-min. Bikram. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

Gun Show

9 a.m. New England Events presents a gun show at The Fireside Inn, West Lebanon, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $9 admission. 603-230-9014. 125 tables. Just off I-89, exit 20, Airport Road.

Holy Communion Service

9:30 a.m. Rev. Thomas C. Ely, Tenth Episcopal Bishop of Vt. will hold service of Holy Communion at Church of Our Saviour, Mission Farm Rd., Killington. In the parish hall. Talk follows service. All welcome.

Sundays with Maurie

10 a.m. Sundays with Maurie: Join local watercolor artist, Maurie Harrington, for weekly painting sessions Sundays at Killington Art Garage. $37pp includes all instruction, materials, fees. Complimentary tea, coffee, and sweets will be served! Drop in, but seats are limited. artgaragevt.com to reserve a spot. 2841 Killington Rd., Killington.

Winter Friends Sock Workshop

10 a.m. Create winter friends out of socks at Killington Art Garage. For ages 4-8, now sew craft. $27 includes materials and instruction. 2841 Killington Rd., Killington. Registration required at artgaragevt.com, 802-422-8844. Not a drop off event, parents must accompany.

Sleigh Ride Week

Great Backyard Bird Count

The Vermont Flurry

Rutland Winter Fest

10 a.m. Rutland Winter Fest 2018, Feb. 16-24. Today, Go Play Day and Teddy Bear Carry at Giorgetti Arena, 2 Oak St Ext., Rutland. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Snowshoeing/hiking in Pine Hill Park, ice skating, fat bike demos, food & drinks, sledding (BYO sled), marshmallow roasting, raffles/prizes, and fun!

Morning Yoga

10:30 a.m. Morning Yoga with Dawn Sunday mornings at Plymouth Community Center, 35 School Drive, Plymouth. $12 or 10 classes for $90. All levels welcome, bring your own mat. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mixed Level Yoga

12 p.m. All Level Flow yoga at Killington Yoga with Cristy Murphy. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Now at noon! Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

Mud Season Auditions

12 p.m. Mud Season Variety Show returns to Chandler Music Hall in April, a community wide talent showcase. Auditions today starting at 12 p.m. Sign up for a slot at janet@chandler-arts.org or 802-728-9402.

10 • The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018

Brighton Beach Memoirs

2 p.m. BarnArts presents Neil Simon’s “Brighton Beach Memoirs” at the Grange Theatre, 65 Stage Rd., So. Pomfret. Tickets $15-$18 adults; $10-$12 students. Info, tickets at barnarts.org.

Winter Fun Day

2 p.m. Wallingford Conservation Commission holds Winter Fun day on Stone Meadow. Sledding, snowshoeing, and more followed by hot cocoa, cookies, and marshmallows. Free.

A Taste of Israel

5 p.m. Rutland Jewish Center offers Taste of Israel, three-course kosher dinner prepared by cooks featuring dishes they learned to prepare on Culinary Tour and Cooking Mission to Israel. Appetizers, buffet and wine at 5 p.m. Judy Stern teaches Israeli dancing. Desserts and hot beverages end the night. $36/ person. RSVP through Feb. 11, 802-773-3455, office@rutlandjewishcenter.org.

Shakin’ Skate

6 p.m. Ice skating and a live DJ, games, and fun for while family in Okemo’s Ice House skating pavilion at Jackson Gore, 6-9 p.m. $10 age 12+; $8 under age 12. $5 skate rentals. okemo.com.

Dodgeball

7 p.m. Dodgeball on Sundays, Adult Open Gym, at Killington Elementary School. $2. Non-marking shoes. Schoolhouse Rd., Killington.

MONDAY JAN. 19

President’s Day Bikram Yoga **

6 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Mondays: 6 a.m. and 11 a.m., 60 min. Bikram; 4:30 p.m. 60-min. hot power flow; 6:15 p.m. 90-min. Bikram. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

All Level Yoga

8:30 a.m. All Level Flow Yoga at Killington Yoga with Karen Dalury, RYT 500. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

Killington Bone Builders

10 a.m. Bone builders meets at Sherburne Memorial Library, 2998 River Rd., Killington, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Free, weights supplied. For info, 802-422-3368.

Kids’ Clay Workshop

10 a.m. Clay workshop for kids ages 4-8. $27 includes materials and instruction. Killington Art Garage, 2841 Killington Rd., Killington. Registration required at artgaragevt.com, 802-422-8844. Not a drop off event, parents must accompany.

Sleigh Ride Week

Great Backyard Bird Count

Rutland Winter Fest

11 a.m. Rutland Winter Fest 2018, Feb. 16-24. Today, Frosty Feet 5K walk/run for Autism Awareness at Rutland Country Club, Grove St., Rutland. Registration begins 10:15 a.m. Race begins 11 a.m. $5 pre-race day registration (rutlandrec.com) or $10 day of.

Monday Meals

12 p.m. Every Monday meals at Chittenden Town Hall at 12 noon. Open to public, RSVP call by Friday prior, 483-6244. Gene Sargent. Bring your own place settings. Seniors $3.50 for 60+. Under 60, $5. No holidays. 337 Holden Rd., Chittenden.

Rutland Rotary

12:15 p.m. Rotary Club of Rutland meets Mondays for lunch at The Palms Restaurant. Learn more or become a member, journal@sover.net.

Tobacco Cessation Group

4:30 p.m. Want to quit smoking but nothing works? Join the free tobacco cessation group. Free nicotine patches, gum or lozenges. Every Monday, 4:30-5:30 p.m. at RRMC Physiatry Conference Room (PM&R) off Outpatient Physical Therapy Waiting Room. 160 Allen Street, Rutland.

Yin Yoga

5 p.m. Yin Yoga, all levels at Killington Yoga with Karen Dalury, RYT 500. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

Citizenship Classes

Vermont Adult Learning will offers free citizenship classes. Call Marcy Green, 802-775-0617, and learn if you may qualify for citizenship at no cost. 16 Evelyn St., Rutland. Also, free classes in reading, writing, and speaking for English speakers of other languages. Ongoing.

TUESDAY Bikram Yoga **

FEB. 20

6 a.m. Bikram Yoga holds classes Tuesdays: 6 a.m. & 6:15 p.m. Inferno hot pilates; 9 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. 90-min. Bikram. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, bikramyogamendon.com.

Open Swim **

8 a.m. Enjoy the warm water at Mitchell Therapy Pool at Vermont Achievement Center, 88 Park St., Rutland: 8-9 a.m.; 12-1 p.m.; 5-7 p.m. Call for more times & info, 802-773-7187.

Vacation Day Camps

9 a.m. ArtisTree offers vacation day camps during President’s week, with 2018 Winter Olympics theme. Today, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. For ages 5-8, create Olympic Bling (tshirts, medals, banners, more). For age 9-12, celebrate Year of the Dog by creating big portraits of dogs - bring photo of your own, or use one of theirs. artistreevt.org for details. 2095 Pomfret Rd., So. Pomfret. More next week!

Art Workshop

10 a.m. Annie’s Art Workshop, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Tuesdays at Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington. Open art workshop - collaborative artist group welcomes all levels, interests, mediums. Free. In memory of Ann Wallen. Info, 2991777.

Mendon Bone Builders

10 a.m. Mendon bone builders meets Tuesdays at Roadside Chapel, 1680 Townline Rd, Rutland Town. Info, 802-773-2694.

Soft Skills Workshop

10 a.m. BROC offers Soft Skills Workshop with Donalee Kirrk, exploring things you did not learn in school or on a computer, how to deal with others in the workplace, and how to be a better co-worker and employee. Free. 45 Union St., Rutland. RSVP to 802-665-1725; dkirk@broc.org.

Canvas & Cocoa for Kids

10 a.m. Painting and hot cocoa at Killington Art Garage, for kids ages 7+. Painting with acrylics on canvas. $27 includes materials and instruction. 2841 Killington Rd., Killington. Registration required at artgaragevt.com, 802-422-8844.

Sleigh Ride Week

Hoots & Howls

10 a.m. Fair Haven Free Library hosts presentation by One World Conservation Center, exploring world of animal sounds. 107 N. Main St., Fair Haven. Info, 802-265-8011.

Tobacco Cessation Group

11 a.m. Want to quit smoking but nothing works? Join the free tobacco cessation group. Free nicotine patches, gum or lozenges. Every Tuesday, 11-12 p.m. at Heart Center, 12 Commons St., Rutland. 802-747-3768 for more info.

CCV Job Hunt Helper

11:45 a.m. CCV Job Hunt Helper Joe Alford will be available at Rutland Free Library, 11:45 a.m.-1:45 p.m. to help job seekers find employment: writing resume and cover letter, apply for jobs online, assess skills and interests, use internet to explore career options, and learn about education and training programs. 10 Court St., Rutland. 802-773-1860.

Active Seniors Lunch

12 p.m. Killington Active Seniors meet for a meal Tuesdays at the Lookout Bar & Grille. Town sponsored. Come have lunch with this well-traveled group of men and women. $5/ person. Info, 802-422-2921. 2910 Killington Road, Killington.

I.T. Help for Seniors

12:45 p.m. Norman Williams Public Library Director of Technology Meg Brazill is offering individual help to people desiring assistance with their laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. Contact the Thompson Senior Center to sign up for a 45-minute slot of time. Bring the device along with you and Meg will work with you to straighten things out and learn about some tools and tricks. Woodstock.

Vacation Day Camps

1 p.m. ArtisTree offers vacation day camps during President’s week, with 2018 Winter Olympics theme. Today, 1-4 p.m. For ages 5-8, Olympic Sled Making. For age 9-12, Olympians in Action. artistreevt.org for details. 2095 Pomfret Rd., So. Pomfret. More next week!

TOPS Meeting

4:45 p.m. TOPS meets every Tuesday night at the Trinity church in Rutland Vermont at the corners of West street and Church Street. Side entrance. Weight in starts at 4:45 until 5:30 and meeting starts at 6 until 6:30. Everyone is welcome come and join a stress free environment and take off pounds sensibly. For more information call Ann Marie at 802-293-5279.

Bereavement Group

6 p.m. VNAHSR’s monthly bereavement group, Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Grace Congregational Church, 8 Court St., Rutland. Rutland office chaplain, Andrew Carlson facilitates. Free, open to the public. Info, 802-770-1613.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Seminar

6 p.m. RRMC invites community to free Alzheimer awareness seminar, “The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease” with Dr. Walter Gundel, MD. Info presented about difference between normal aging and dementia, explain how the disease works, stages, and more. Free. Preregistration required at rrmc.org or802-772-2400. Held at CVPS/Leahy Community Health Ed Center, RRMC, 160 Allen St., Rutland. Second, “Understanding and Responding to Dementia Related Behavior,” held Feb. 27.

Chess Club

7 p.m. Rutland Rec Dept. holds a chess club at Godnick Adult Center, providing a mind-enhancing skill not only to the youth but adults as well. The club will teach anyone who is willing to learn. All ages are welcome; open to the public. Tuesday evenings, 7 – 9 p.m. 1 Deer St., Rutland.

Adult Floor Hockey

7 p.m. Adult Floor Hockey at Killington Elementary School, 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays. $2. Non-marking gym sneakers please. Info, killingtontown.com.

Freelance Family Rehearsals

7 p.m. Freelance Family Singers begin rehearsing for spring concerts at First Congregational Church, Elm St., Woodstock. 7-9 p.m. No auditions required. $15 participation fee for adults; $10 children. Scholarships available. Concerts in May. Info, 802-457-3980.

Volleyball

7 p.m. Volleyball on Mondays, Adult Open Gym, at Killington Elementary School. $2. Non-marking shoes. Schoolhouse Rd., Killington.

Rutland Winter Fest

7 p.m. Rutland Winter Fest 2018, Feb. 16-24. Tonight, Center Street Night Sledding, 7-9 p.m. Center Street shuts down and turns into a sledding hill, with live music and hot cocoa.

The Mountain Times • Feb 14-20, 2018 • 11

Music scene by dj dave hoffenberg

WEDNESDAY

FEB. 14 KILLINGTON

[MUSIC Scene] 6 p.m. Wobbly Barn

Happy Hour w/ Jenny Porter

7 p.m. O’Dwyer’s Public House Daniel Brown

7:30 p.m. McGrath’s Irish Pub Shananagans

10 p.m. Wobbly Barn 3AM Tokyo

8 p.m. Pickle Barrel

10:30 p.m. Pickle Barrel Crow’s Nest

Never in Vegas

Jamie’s Junk Show

2 p.m. K1 Base Lodge

7 p.m. The Foundry

8 p.m. The Foundry

LUDLOW

6 p.m. Liquid Art

7:30 p.m. McGrath’s Irish Pub

8:30 p.m. Outback Pizza Alejandro Diaz

3 p.m. Okemo’s Sitting Bull Lounge

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games Joey Leone Band

6 p.m. Jackson Gore Ice House

9 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub Supply & Demand

SOUTH POMFRET

10 p.m. Wobbly Barn

2 p.m. Grange Theatre Brighton Beach Memoirs

10:30 p.m. Pickle Barrel Crow’s Nest

STOCKBRIDGE

Daniel Brown Open Mic

8 p.m. Outback Pizza

Snowplow Comedy Competition

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games Jim Devlin

POULTNEY 7 p.m. Taps Tavern

Valentine’s Day w/ Zak Hampton’s Moose Crossing

RUTLAND 7 p.m. The Draught Room Wayne Canney

9:30 p.m. The Venue Jenny Porter

STOCKBRIDGE 7 p.m. Wild Fern

Rhapsody in Red 2018: Valentine’s Show w/ Rick Redington & The Luv

WOODSTOCK 6 p.m Bentley’s

Valentine’s Day w/ Zack Danziger & Friends

THURSDAY

Aaron Audet & Jordan Snow

Shananagans

8 p.m. Pickle Barrel Nightclub Never in Vegas

8 p.m. Santa Fe Steakhouse Supply & Demand Duo

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games Just Jamie

Aaron Audet Band

The Benderz

Jamie’s Junk Show

9 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub

LUDLOW

10 p.m. Wobbly Barn

3 p.m. Okemo’s Sitting Bull Lounge

DJ Dave’s All Request Dance Party The Benderz

LUDLOW 3 p.m. Okemo’s Sitting Bull Lounge Guy Burlage

PITTSFIELD 8 p.m. Clear River Tavern

PITTSFIELD 8 p.m. Clear River Tavern Half Stash w/ Josh & Vince

8 p.m. Taps Tavern

Open Mic Night: w/ Jon-Carl Smith

Josh Jakab

RUTLAND

FEB. 15 KILLINGTON

8 p.m. Paramount Theatre

7 p.m. Paramount Theatre

2 p.m. Pico’s Last Run

DJ Dirty D

Daniel Brown

6 p.m. Outback Pizza

9:30 p.m. Hide-A-Way Tavern

7 p.m. The Foundry

SOUTH POMFRET

Andy Lugo

Joey Leone Duo

8 p.m. Pickle Barrel

Richard James Krewe Orleans

8 p.m. Wobbly Barn AKA

MENDON 6 p.m. Red Clover Inn Jazz Trio

PITTSFIELD 7 p.m. Clear River Tavern Open Mic w/ Supply & Demand

POULTNEY 7 p.m. Taps Tavern Strangled Darlings

RUTLAND 9:30 p.m. Hide-A-Way Tavern

Fiddlewitch

7:30 p.m. Grange Theatre Brighton Beach Memoirs

TINMOUTH 8 p.m. Community Center Contra Dance w/ Lausanne Allen & Cold River Band

WOODSTOCK 10 p.m Bentley’s VJ Castor Troy

SATURDAY

FEB. 17 BOMOSEEN 6 p.m. Iron lantern Jenny Porter

International Night w/ DJ Mega

KILLINGTON

STOCKBRIDGE

1 p.m. Bear Mountain Base Lodge

7 p.m. Wild Fern Rick Redington

FRIDAY

Jenny Porter

4 p.m. JAX Food & Games

Happy Hour w/ Aaron Audet

Gobsmacked

9 p.m. Center Street Alley DJ Mega

9:30 p.m. Hide-A-Way Tavern Karaoke 101 w/ Tenacious T

SOUTH POMFRET 7:30 p.m. Grange Theatre Brighton Beach Memoirs

WOODSTOCK 6 p.m Bentley’s Jon Clinch

10 p.m Bentley’s DJ Andraudy

SUNDAY 11 a.m. The Foundry Brunch w/ Jordan Snow

Extra Stout

Karaoke w/ DJ Evan

7 p.m. The Foundry

Blues Night w/ Joey Leone

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games The Idiots

LUDLOW 3 p.m. Okemo’s Sitting Bull Lounge Master Cylinders

9 p.m. The Killarney

Open Mic w/ Supply & Demand

PITTSFIELD 8 p.m. Clear River Tavern Rattle & Bones

WOODSTOCK 8 p.m. Bentley’s Open Mic Night

TUESDAY FEB. 20

KILLINGTON Daniel Brown

6 p.m. Outback Pizza 8 p.m. Charity’s Tavern

Name That Tune Bingo w/ DJ Dave

Studio Two

Guy Burlage

1 p.m. Bear Mountain Base Lodge

6 p.m. Wobbly Barn Tony Lee Thomas Band

8 p.m. Pickle Barrel

7 p.m. O’Dwyer’s Public House

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games

Cameron Thayer

5 p.m. Outback Pizza

Jamie’s Junk Show

Duane Carleton

The County Down

Just Jamie

LUDLOW

7:30 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub

6 p.m. Outback Pizza

4 p.m. The Foundry

4 p.m. Pickle Barrel Crow’s Nest

6 p.m. Prestons

Just Jamie

Duane Carleton

Nikki Adams

KILLINGTON

4 p.m. The Foundry

2 p.m. K1 Base Lodge

4 p.m. McGrath’s Irish Pub

Duane Carleton

5 p.m. Outback Pizza

Duane Carleton

FEB. 19

KILLINGTON

2 p.m. K1 Base Lodge

David Soltz

Apres Ski Dance Party w/ DJ Dave

MONDAY

1 p.m. Pico’s Last Run Lodge

6 p.m. Iron lantern

Jordan Snow

The People’s Jam

FEB. 18

FEB. 16 BOMOSEEN

4 p.m. The Foundry

1 p.m. Wild Fern

KILLINGTON

4 p.m. Pickle Barrel Jamie’s Junk Show

Cigar Box Brunch w/ Rick Redington

Torchlight Parade & Fireworks

RUTLAND

9 p.m. Center Street Alley

12 p.m. Wild Fern

7:30 p.m. Okemo’s Clock Tower Base Area

POULTNEY

Chefs! A Sizzling Kitchen Showdown

Shakin’ Skate w/ Live DJ

CK3

Presidents Day Clear-aoke w/ Caitlin

7:30 p.m Hop ‘n’ Moose

Master Cylinders

6 p.m. Wobbly Barn Tony Lee Thomas Band

7 p.m. The Foundry

K-town’s Finest R&B Night w/ Jordan Snow

Half Stash Open Jam The Nerds

Duane Carleton

3 p.m. Okemo’s Sitting Bull Lounge POULTNEY 8 p.m. Taps Tavern Bluegrass Jam

RUTLAND 7 p.m. The Venue

Working Mans Karaoke w/ Bob Hudson

8 p.m. Center Street Alley Trivia

9:30 p.m. Hide-A-Way Tavern Open Mic w/ Krishna Guthrie

12 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

• SUDOKU

• MOVIE TIMES

• CROSSWORD

• MOVIE DIARY

just for fun

SUDOKU

the MOVIE diary

By Dom Cioffi

Sign of the times

Back in the very early 1980s, the BMX bicycle phenomenon was hitting critical mass – and I just happened to be an emerging teenager. That sport and my love of off-road biking converged one summer when I took my old Schwinn Sting-Ray and refit it with a number of accessories that made it look more BMXish. The fact was, I could not afford an actual BMX bike and my parent’s weren’t about to buy me one. So, I had to make do with what I had, which was a bright yellow banana-seat bike with tassels on the handlebars and trading cards in the spokes. I saved up what I could from lawn mowing and Each block is divided by its own matrix of nine cells. The rule other odd jobs and eventually purchased a new seat for solving Sudoku puzzles are very simple. Each row, column and new handlebars. I then stripped down the bike and block, must contain one of the numbers from “1” to “9”. No to its frame, sanded it, and spray painted it royal blue. number may appear more than once in any row, column, or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid the puzzle is solved. When it was finished, I attached the new seat and This week’s solution is on page 25 handlebars and a few other minor accoutrements and marveled at my creation. For a 14-year-old boy, it wasn’t half bad. And I was CROSSWORD PUZZLE damn proud of what I had accomplished. But there was one thing missing to really make it shine: padding. In those early days of BMX, padding represented the added “cool” factor. Made of simple neoprene tubing (like you’d wrap pipes with) and covered with fancy plastic wrapping with company logos, these pads were all the rage. If you couldn’t afford an expensive BMX bike from Schwinn, Raleigh or Mongoose, at least you could buy the padding with their branding. In reality, the pads served a purpose outside of dressing up your ride. In actual racing or off-roading situations, the pads provided protection from banging your limbs on the handlebars, stem or crossbar. I purchased the three main pads in a gold color, which matched beautifully with my gold handle bars and seat post. Once attached to my bike, it looked amazing. I rode that bike around my neighborhood and to the municipal pool with great pride. But I also was wary of leaving it alone for any length of time. Theft CLUES ACROSS CLUES DOWN was commonplace in our city and I did not want to 1. Bone in the lower back 1. Elaborate silk garment lose my beloved creation to some sketchy opportun2. Goddess of wisdom 5. Fleet ist. 3. Comedic honors 11. Egyptian deity Unfortunately, one day while I was swimming at 4. A way to grasp 12. Hundredth anniversary the pool, someone stole all of my pads while my bike 5. Apex 16. Chew the fat 6. British soldier was locked to a nearby fence. I was incensed. Those 17. Doctor of Medicine 7. Manganese pads weren’t expensive, but to a 14-year-old boy with 18. Large, edible game fish 8. Indicates position no money, they were not easily replaced. 19. Revitalization 9. Decompressions in scuba diving (abbr.) For the next week, I scanned every bike that came 24. Personal computer 10. Soon near the pool before eventually locating one with my 25. Unfettered 13. Blood type 14. Clever reply exact pads. And I knew they were mine from a scuff 26. Clumsy persons 15. One who travels by luxurious boat 27. Japanese classical mark I had recognized. The bad news was that the 20. Once more theater bike belonged to the local bully who was twice my size 21. Rural delivery 28. Part of a ship and easily agitated. 22. Mexican dish 29. Rate of movement 23. Nigerian City 30. How much 27. Is not (Span.) 31. Image taken with a 29. Italy’s longest river camera 30. Grand __, vintage 33. Sharp mountain ridge 31. Monetary unit 34. Czech capital 32. The man 33. Basics 38. One who treats poorly 34. Poster 39. By right Showings February 15 - 21, 21 2018 35. Small remains 40. Relating to odors Downtown Rutland Shopping Plaza 36. Gelatinous substance 43. As soon as possible 143 Merchants Row, Rutland, VT 05701 37. A narrow opening 44. Israeli Olympic swimmer MOVIES TIMES 38. Artificial intelligence 45. Scored perfectly 40. Algerian coastal city 1517 TO PARIS PG13 1:10 4:10 7:15 9:40 49. Financial ratio (abbr.) 41. Canned fish 50. Unpleasant emotion BLACK PANTHER - PG13 - 6:45 9:45 42. Milligram 51. Sign of the zodiac 44. Carrot’s partner FIFTY SHADES FREED - R 1:20 4:20 7:00 9:30 53. Promotional material 45. Single-celled animals GREATEST SHOWMAN - PG13 1:25 4:25 7:10 9:35 46. Movie theater 54. Your parents’ parents 47. Necessitate 56. Monetary unit HOSTILES - R 12:30 3:50 6:40 9:25 48. A state of not being used 58. Farm state 50. Small folds of tissue JUMANJI WELCOME TO THE JUNGlE - PG13 1:15 4:15 6:55 9:35 59. One of Hollywood’s 51. Gallium Bridges brothers MAZE RUNNER DEATH CURE - PG13 12:40 3:40 6:45 9:45 52. Trauma center 60. Not the plaintiff 54. Commands to go faster PETER RABBIT - PG 1:30 4:30 6:55 9:20 63. “Night Train” novelist 55. New England’s football team 64. Martens valued for their fur 57. Pianoforte SHAPE OF WATER- R 12:50 3:30 65. Discount 61. Unit of loudness THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE- R 1:00 4:00 7:15 9:50 62. Atomic number 13 Solutions on page, 25

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My brain raced with options as I stared at the bike. Do I steal the pads back? Do I tell an adult? Do I just suck it up? It didn’t matter. As I was standing there staring at the bike, the bully showed up. He gave me an evil glare and asked, “What’s your problem?” I calmly spoke up for myself and stated, “I think those are my pads on your bike. I recognize them by the scuff mark on the right side” For a moment, I was shocked at the courage I was displaying. I was standing up for the truth. There was no way he could get out this. I had him cornered. Without missing a beat (and in classic bully fashion), he walked over to me, pushed his hand into my chest and replied, “Yeah, maybe they are yours. But I’m keeping them.” He then casually got on his bike and rode away. I was angry, distraught, emasculated. I spent weeks fantasizing about how to get back at him, plotting revenge tactics that would even the score. But at the end of every plan, I was dissuaded by the idea that he would kick my ass once he found out it was me. Life sort of worked things out for me when I discovered that the bully’s bike got crushed by a city worker’s truck later that summer. But I never got over the original theft and to this day still wish I had gotten my revenge. Revenge also plays a big role in this week’s film, “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” a drama-dark comedy that follows one woman’s plight to find her daughter’s killer. Starring Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, and Sam Rockwell, “Three Billboards” encompasses a bevy of interesting and unique characters, most of whom are entirely unlikable. Check this one out if you’re in the mood for an involved story with consistently puzzling situations. This is character-driven movie that has hints of Tarantino throughout. I still need to see “The Post” to wrap up my viewings of all the Best Picture nominees, but in my mind, this has been my most enjoyable film experience of the year. A befuddled “A-” for “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” Got a question or comment for Dom? You can email him at moviediary@att.net.

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 13

n o i g e R e h T ’ R ock i n Rockin’ the region with Cam Thayer This Friday don’t miss the first ever Vermont performance of Cameron “Cash” Thayer, age 21, at Outback Pizza in Killington, 6-10 p.m. Thayer hails from Scar-

rockin’ the region by dj dave hoffenberg

borough, Maine, and is the only one in his family to be born and raised there. His family’s roots are spread from Franklin, Maine down to Duxbury, Mass. with New Hampshire and Vermont thrown in. Many of his relatives are right here in the Rutland region. I discovered him through his uncle, Killington’s most interesting man, Chris Thayer — who will be on hand with lots of giveaways for the Labatt Blue party. Chris has told me many good things about Cam and how he won a Johnny Cash music contest. I had the pleasure of speaking to him to learn about that and even more. Cam Thayer is pretty much the only musical one in the family besides his brother, who plays bass and works as an audio technician for Disney. He said he had been singing for quite some time but it wasn’t until later in high school that he started developing it. His brother taught him the guitar when he was young but he didn’t take to it. He said, “I was really into it but at the same time, I really wasn’t, because I was so young. When you’re younger, you’re a little more fickle.” He also overcame Bell’s Palsy which can be detrimental to a singer. He said, “What I sang changed over time. When I was really young I was singing the Beatles and music like that. In the seventh grade I got Bell’s Palsy, which was an interesting adventure for me. My parents were freaked out because they thought I had a stroke which made no sense because I was only 11. I was relatively lucky because it healed pretty quickly. After I got through that, I was listening to Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Sublime and all kinds of different genres of music.” Across the street from where he lived, there were some neighbors that were like a second set of grandparents to him. They would play Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and stuff like that for him all the time. Johnny Cash was definitely in his life, but not to the point where he wanted to play it. That came later. His wanting to play guitar resurfaced as time went on. He picked up the guitar for the second time in the 10th grade and every few weeks he would take lessons. His teacher taught him a few songs and showed him how to hold it and hit the chords properly. He owes his Johnny Cash playing to John McCain — his music teacher, not the

U.S. Senator — because he taught him how to play “Folsom Prison Blues.” He also taught him how to play Led Zeppelin’s “Over the Hill and Far Away.” Those two songs made his fingers blistered, he was playing them so much. Thayer’s music description on his Facebook page says, “They Call Me Johnny. A Taste of Johnny, with a hint of Cameron. Most of what I perform is Johnny Cash, However, I am still learning more songs and other artists. I’m taking recommendations, but no promises to every one.” In the 11th grade, he started listening to, and playing, Johnny Cash, and everyone told him he needed to play more. He said, “My mom got me a 27-song book of his and that was really the start of it. Slowly from there it expanded to other artists, but about half of my songs are Johnny Cash.” Nobody really knows where he got his voice. He said it pretty much came out of nowhere. His grand-

his first competition in June 2016. He had a near perfect score in the Traditional Country Male Entertainer Ages 17-20 category and was only a half-point away from perfect. He performed his signature songs, as he calls them, being “Folsom Prison Blues” and “One Piece at a Time.” Those are his start and end songs almost every night he plays. “Every once in a while I break the rules,” he said, laughing. In 2017, he went to Tennessee to compete in the nationals. Down there he sang “Folsom” a little fast in the Male Vocalist category and did not win, but for the Traditional Country Male Entertainer, he sang “Ring of Fire” with his harmonica and “One Piece at a Time.” That worked out great, and he took first place. Both times that he competed in Maine, he won and qualified for the Nationals in Tennessee. He will be heading back there next month to defend his title. Even though he’s now 21, he still has to compete

Courtesy of Dave Hoffenberg

CAM THAYER

mother used to sing in the choir when she was younger, but other than that, there is nobody else but his brother. He also sang in the high school chorus and since he played guitar, the teacher would often ask if he wanted to accompany the songs they sang with guitar. He learned a lot of songs then and made use of his guitar playing. Next month, Thayer is heading back to Pigeon Forge, Tenn., to compete in the North American Country Music Association International Talent Competition (NACMAI). First, you have to compete in a local event, and for him it’s the Down East Country Music Association of Maine (DECMA). Some friends of his are in a band and one time he went to see them, he played a set during their show. They told him about DECMA and he entered

in the younger category because he was 20 when he qualified. He will be singing some Johnny Cash again, but may also add some other songs as he does not want to be labeled as a Johnny Cash impersonator. One song that he’s digging on now and might play is George Strait’s “Amarillo by Morning.” There are many different categories in the competition and he and a female friend are also going to compete in the Duo category. Thayer works a few jobs but eventually would like to turn this into a career. “Music is definitely my passion and what I want to do full-time. At the moment, I’m a server at Cracker Barrel,” he said. His first paid gig was August 2015 at the American Legion in Scarborough for its annual lobster bake. He was hired by his neighbor who was Rockin’ the Region, page 23

14 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

By Lani Duke

As towns ready themselves for Town Meeting Day, the warnings for informational meetings as well as voting are being solidified. Voters in Pawlet will decide whether to eliminate the town office of lister, replacing it with a Select Boardappointed, professionally qualified assessor with the same duties. They will also decide whether to grant exemption from real estate taxes to the Pawlet and West Pawlet volunteer fire departments, the West Pawlet Fish & Game Club, and the Masons Morn-

March 6 ballot previews

ing Flower Lodge 371 AF&AM. The Middletown Springs Public Library Board of Trustees hosts a get-together to meet candidates for school and town positions Feb. 25 at 3 p.m. Moderator is Rep. Robin Chesnut-Tangerman. In Fair Haven, voters may choose whether to approve the Masons Eureka Lodge #75 F&AM’s tax-exempt status for five years. They are also asked to approve funding for the Fair Haven Library, Fair Haven Rescue Squad, Fair Haven Concerned Inc., Rutland Mental Health Services, BROC-Community Action in Southwestern Vermont, Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging, RSVP and the Volunteer Center, Rutland Area Visiting Nurse association and Hospice, ARC-Rutland

Changing of the guard Jonas Rosenthal, retired Poultney town manager and currently Fair Haven interim town manager, expects to return to “retirement” soon after the new Fair Haven town manager starts work. Rosenthal said he hopes the new person, who will not be named until the contract is signed Feb. 13, will begin work Feb. 19 or 20. Then Rosenthal can devote more of his time

to unpaid labors of love on the Poultney Independence Day parade, recreation department and town revitalization. Mary Lou Willits of Middletown Springs has become the Pawlet Public Library’s new director. She had been executive director of the Slate Valley Museum in Granville, N.Y., and executive officer at Green Mountain College in Poultney.

Area, Castleton Community Seniors Inc., Marble Valley Regional Transit, and Fair Haven Boys and Girls Club. The general operating budget is up 6.5 percent above last year’s, expected to increase property assessments 4 percent, Interim Town Manager Jonas Rosenthal told the Rutland Herald. Fair Haven voters meet at Fair Haven Grade School, March 5 at 7 p.m.; they cast their ballots the following day at the Post 49 American Legion Building, 72 S. Main St. The Slate Valley Modified Unified Union School District holds an information meeting Feb. 26 at Fair Haven Union High School. The Benson Town School Board holds an informational meeting Mar. 5. Then cast votes on March 6.

“Up Home,” Minnie Griswold’s house MIDDLEBURY—When Minnie Griswold of Pawlet died in 1952, her sons closed up the house with its entire contents intact. Thirty years ago, one of Minnie’s sons allowed Pawlet documentarians Susanne and Neil Rappaport (now themselves deceased) to make a photographic record of the interiors with their furnishings and everyday items from personal effects to pots and pans in place. This hand-tinted collection of intimate views of a bygone time is on display at the Vermont Folklife Center, 88 Main St., Middlebury, through the end of March. For more information, contact the Folklife Center at 388-4964.

Pawlet must shoulder West Pawlet sewer quandary PAWLET—The Pawlet Planning Commission has been studying problems in the sewer system in West Pawlet. The town was not able to achieve a capacity that made the recent sewer plant rebuild more affordable. State requirements had demanded the town build a sewer plant so that sewage from West Pawlet did not run into

the Indian River. Land trust issues prevent expanding the system’s reach. Vacant properties and system participant reductions make the current system an impairment to increased economic development, according to the Planning Commission minutes for Jan. 22.a Funding repair and upgrade to the sewer plant is

not a problem for West Pawlet alone. Indeed, West Pawlet does not exist as a unique entity, but is the west side of Pawlet, Eric Mach clarified. The entire town is responsible for whatever problems there are, so any improvements to the West Pawlet sewer plant are the responsibility of all.

Lakes Region, page 17

I’m running for the Select Board to provide the voters in Town of Killington with the correct information to make educated decisions on various Town issues. I believe the Town needs to understand its current financial position in order to know how to best move forward in whatever direction the voters choose. I’ve been quoted as saying the Town has two separate financial books. I want to clarify that statement by saying that I only repeated what the Town Auditor Ron Smith stated at last year’s informational meeting. When Ron was asked what he meant by two separate financial books, he went further on to explain that the Town powers have left out chapters of the financial reports. So I am running to bring all outstanding chapters into our financial reporting to the voters so that when we vote we know where we stand.

ote Jim Haff for Killington Selectman

Experience: I’ve sat on the Killington Select Board, I’ve been involved with Killington pre-K and Killington Elementary School, I’ve sat on the Rutland Regional Planning Commission, and I’ve filled in as Town health officer. Currently, I am one of two Killington representatives for the middle school/high school board and I’m the chair of the finance committee for that board. Additionally, I sit on the buildings and grounds sub-committee of the middle school/high school and I also sit on the new Act 46 MUUD (Modified Unified Union District) board and have been appointed to the Act 46 MUUD finance committee.

NEWS BRIEFS

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 15

By Lani Duke

GMP house giveaway to promote Rutland The Rutland Board of Aldermen agreed to sell the house at 60 Cleveland Ave. to Green Mountain Power for $1 Feb. 5. Under the agreement, GMP would tear down the house and replace it with a new, energy-efficient house, to be given to the winner of a national contest that would draw positive attention to the city. NBF Architects has drawn up a plan for the three-bedroom, “farmhouse-style” structure, constructed to harmonize with the neighborhood with its wide front porch, centered front door, and pitched roof. A collaboration of community partners will build the new house, Rutland Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Brennon Duffy told the aldermen.

Nuisance ordinance to receive first test RUTLAND TOWN—Having enacted a new public nuisance ordinance that went into effect Dec. 15, Rutland Town’s Select Board voted Feb. 6 to start the clean-up process at both Flory’s Plaza on Route 4A in Center Rutland and a dilapidated, former gas station near Rutland High School on Route 4 East. The last tenant in Flory’s Plaza was the Rutland Town Post Office, which merged into the West Rutland Post Office about eight years ago. The plaza property belongs to a multi-generational group of John Flory’s heirs; widely decried as an eyesore on one of Rutland’s

key gateways, the property contains three structures: John Flory’s diner, a motel, and the shopping plaza, Rutland Town Select Board Chair Joshua Terenzini told the Rutland Herald. The other property the town is eyeing, the gas station, has a local owner. Both properties have been inhabited by homeless people and are health and public safety concerns. Fire chief Frank Cioffi and Health Officer John Sly will inspect both and report their findings to the Select Board. Property owners will also receive copies of the reports.

On the ballot WALLINGFORD—Voters will decide whether to stabilize real estate taxes of each of three historically significant properties: Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge #96, Wallingford Memorial Rotary Club, and Maple Valley Grange at $150 annually for five years beginning July 1, 2018. Voters will also be asked whether to appropriate $2,079 for the “Real Rutland” marketing initiative (one dollar per capita of population), and whether to sell the former Witham property on Route 103, recently acquired by the town at tax sale.

Rutland Co-op considers benefit change Leaders of the Rutland Area Food Co-op are considering whether to change the way members receive monetary benefits. Currently, members receive a 2 percent discount when they buy products and have since the co-op opened in 1995. The co-op management is considering switching to a “patronage refund system,” according to an email recently sent to members. Although members would still benefit all year from member-only sales, the discount would disappear; instead, members would receive an annual refund check. If co-op members vote in favor of the change, members would receive a share in the store’s profit at the end of the year, after the store’s needs are met. The co-op’s board of directors would determine how much of the store’s end-of-year profit would be

distributed among members. The email further explains that there may be some years in which no profit would be returned to members. On years when profit is disbursed to members, the amount each receives would be dependent on the amount each spent at the store. Members already discussed switching to the patronage refund system at the June annual meeting, board member Steve Peters told the Rutland Herald. Most other co-ops in Vermont already are on the patronage refund system. If members do vote for the change at the June annual meeting, it may commence at the start of the upcoming fiscal year, April 2019. In the meantime, board members plan to be available to talk with members and will also answer questions through board@ rutlandcoop.com.

Community spirit comes naturally RUTLAND TOWN—An unknown stranger saved Gayla Wardwell’s house and garage in the early morning Jan. 8, after spotting her truck on fire in her Meadow Way driveway and first blowing his horn, then knocking loudly on her door. The noise he raised woke neighbors who contained the fire with their fire extinguishers until a firefighters’ truck arrived. No one seems to know who the Good Samaritan was. Wardwell expressed her thanks to him in a letter to the Rutland Herald.

Town tidbits Wallingford has begun work on the town’s master stormwater plan. Jerry Tift will step down as Wallingford’s constable and animal control officer. The town is accepting applications for both positions. The West Rutland Fire Department elected officers for the year in January with the result that Joe

Skaza is chief; Michael Skaza, first assistant chief, Tom Lacz, second assistant chief, and Lori Lyons, clerk. Joe Skaza announced this is the last year he will run for the chief’s position. West Rutland plans to participate in Rutland’s Winterfest, with snow sculptures on the town green.

The contest is intended to bolster the “ongoing regional marketing initiative [‘Real Rutland’] to attract and retain residents and workers in the Rutland region,” Duffy elaborated. Although the city would receive no reimbursement for the $22,000 in back taxes that forced the property’s surrender, the new house would add to the redevelopment targeted for that area of the city, reported the Rutland Herald. If the house were not sold to GMP, it could continue to deteriorate, let alone not improve the neighborhood, Duffy said in a memo. In addition to NBF, United Way of Rutland and Naylor and Breen Builders of Rutland are committed to the project, with an additional 11 local companies providing goods, labor, and services worth $410,000 or more, and other companies also offering assistance. The decision to rebuild rather than refurbish arose from finding sufficient quantities of asbestos and lead that would require specialized remediation.

Rutland Town principal resigns RUTLAND TOWN— When the 2018 school year ends, Rutland Town School Principal Aaron Boynton will leave, saying he has resigned for both personal and professional reasons.He had been principal at the school since 2012. Citing the increased duties that princi-

pals face, the School Board recently split the school’s leadership into a pair of co-principals, Rutland Central Supervisory Union Superintendent Debra Taylor told the Rutland Herald. Former assistant principal Sarah Tetzlaff is one of the new coprincipals.

The search for a new co-principal to collaborate with her is already being advertised locally and beyond. The School Board is asking interested parents to volunteer for the interview team. Interviews are planned following the February school break.

16 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

NEWS BRIEFS

Pittsford woman held against her will over drug debt RUTLAND—On Feb. 4, at 6 p.m., troopers from the Rutland Barracks received a call about a female being held against her will somewhere in Rutland City. Troopers made contact with the female, who was identified as Christina Colburn, age 31, from Pittsford. She was unable to speak to troopers freely about what was happening to her but was able to answer short yes or no questions. Troopers pinged Colburn’s phone and were able to track the phone to 28 Woodstock Ave. in Rutland city.

Mueller:

Troopers and members of the Rutland city police department responded to 28 Woodstock Ave. and were able to extract Colburn without incident. Three subjects were located inside the residence and were identified as Collen Keefe, age 45 from Rutland city, Eric Stephens, age 52 from Rutland city, and Jamila Marshal, age 41 from Troy, N.Y. Troopers secured the residence, and applied for and were subsequently granted a search warrant for the residence. At 2 a.m., troopers executed the search warrant on the residence and located crack cocaine. In-

vestigation revealed Stephens, Keefe and Marshal held Colburn against her will over a drug debt. Marshal was also found in possession of crack cocaine. Stephens and Marshal were lodged at the Marble Valley Regional Correctional Facility and held on $10,000 bail for violations of Unlawful Restraint, second degree and Possession of Crack Cocaine. Keefe was released on a citation and conditions of release and ordered to appear at the Rutland Superior Court Criminal Division on Feb. 5 at 12:30 p.m.

Diane Mueller, co-owner of Okemo Mountain Resort, shares what it’s like to be a woman exec. in a male-dominated industry

continued from page 2 training. We put a lot of effort into developing training programs so our employees are comfortable in their positions and can excel at what they do. Sometimes I get to work with the staff in their various departments. I learn a lot and we laugh a lot. Much of what I learn is incorporated in staff trainings I conduct. As a multi-tasker, I juggle projects at work and then do the same at home. By nature, I am an organizer and an efficiency expert. It is just who I am, and so I bring that to work with me everyday where it manifests itself in helping employees develop tools and systems that support giving our guests the best experience possible. MT: I know you are an artist and creative so how does that play a role? DM: I am full of ideas and not bashful about bringing them for-

ward. They don’t all become a reality. I think Tim cringes a bit when I start a sentence with “I have been thinking... ” Take my interest in culinary services. When you are sitting with a group of people whose primary responsibility is the guest experience out on the hill, the topic of food isn’t even on the radar screen. Before offering outstanding fare at ski areas came into vogue, I was pushing to give culinary a front-row seat. Dining out was becoming a national trend, and we needed to take notice. Okemo is now a leader in the quality and diversity of food and restaurants offered to guests. MT: And your perspective on skiing and Okemo today, 36 seasons later? DM: “Conquering the mountain” means different things to different people. I bring the perspective of

someone who enjoys the view, the exercise, and the social aspects. Not everyone is in it for speed, although I admit my sister Karen [Reynolds] and I used to count the number of runs we made in a day. Now, I am at the table with others on our leadership team to remind them that some of us like to make graceful turns and watch our children and now grandchildren doing the same. Some of us love standing at the top of the lift looking at the multiple ridgelines as they fade into the distant White Mountains, one undulating wave at a time. I am an entrepreneur with a strong competitive spirit, but I do it with a focus on what I would call the softer side. I think that is part of what helps turn vacation moments into timeless traditions for Okemo guests.

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Courtesy of Okemo Mountain Resort

Diane and Tim at Solitude.

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The Mountain Times â&#x20AC;˘ Feb. 14-20, 2018â&#x20AC;˘ 17

NEWS BRIEFS

Man arrested for possession of crack cocaine and falsifying information to police RUTLANDâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;On Feb. 12, at 6:30 p.m., troopers from the Rutland Barracks conducted a motor vehicle stop on South Main Street in Rutland city for a motor vehicle violation.Â Troopers recognized a male passenger in the vehicle as Jason P. Robinson, age 39 from Rutland city, who had an active arrest warrant for six sales of narcotics.Â Robinson later provided a false name and date of birth in an attempt to avoid being arrested on the outstanding warrant.Â Troopers gained consent to search the vehicle, and located 1.7 grams of crack cocaine in the back seat.Â Robinson was taken into custody for possession of crack cocaine, and providing false information to police and lodged at the Marble Valley Regional Correctional Center on the outstanding warrant.Â

Rutland Regional Medical Center issues flu warning RUTLAND â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â Jennifer Pistole, MPH, infectious disease epidemiologist with the Vermont Department of Health Division of Health Surveillance, has issued important messaging about this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s influenza. It is vital that the Rutland community knows that the flu remains widespread throughout Vermont and may not yet have peaked. This means it is likely that many more will become ill with the flu in the weeks ahead. The H3N2 influenza strain seen this year can result in severe illness. Though the vaccination is less effective for H3N2, it is effective for other circulating strains. Some protection is better than none and is critical in helping those at risk for severe illness, especially babies too young to be vaccinated, pregnant women, and those with a chronic illness, or weak immune system. There are several precautions you should take to protect yourself and each other from getting the flu: â&#x20AC;˘ Get your flu shot, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too late. Contact your provider orÂ visitÂ vaccinefinder.orgÂ to inquire about the availability

of the flu vaccine. â&#x20AC;˘ Clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. Cover your coughs and sneezes. These efforts will help to keep the germs from spreading. â&#x20AC;˘ If you develop flu symptoms and are at high risk for complications seek medical attention as soon as possible. â&#x20AC;˘ Above all, stay home when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sick except to seek medical care. Flu symptoms consist of fever that is generally abrupt in onset and any combination of sore throat, cough, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Find out more information about flu prevention and treatment atÂ www. Healthvermont.gov/flu Rutland Regional is rolling out a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Protect Yourself, Protect Each Other, Take a Maskâ&#x20AC;? campaign for staff and visitors. Many of our staff are wearing masks to protect themselves and patients so they can remain healthy and take care of our community. Sanitizer and face masks are available near all public entrances at Rutland Regional.

Expert pediatric care from cradle through college.

Lakes Region

By Lani Duke

continued from page 14

Ice and water rescue training completed CASTLETONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;The Castleton Volunteer Fire Department recently received two days of training and certification for surface and ice-water rescue and training. A Homeland Security grant of nearly $21,000 provided funding to train up to 30 people and buy ice-water rescue equipment; that purchase comprised four complete ice-water rescue wetsuits and tether lines, a rescue sled and ether line, a hypothermia-prevention bag, four diver knives, seven pairs of ice-water rescue boots, four helmets, four rescue vests, four pairs of swim fins, and seven insulating under-layer shirts, reported the Rutland Herald.

Crowlers and growlers coming FAIR HAVENâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Jon Meigs and Pete Heilig plan to open Fair Havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only microbrewery at 95 Main St., near the end of the summer, using space once occupied by the Greek House of Pizza. Scotch Hill Brewery is carrying on the name of the first slate quarry in Vermont. The two men are venturing into fields that have not plowed before. Meigs is an MRI technologist; Heilig, former Hydeville postmaster, now retired. Meigs has been making beer and mead at home for about seven years; both men said they enjoy experimenting with different yeast strains

and look forward to using as many locally-produced ingredients as possible. The restaurant will serve light food, perhaps Mexican, alongside an initial offering of six brews, with eventual hopes of live music and outdoor seating. The 2,000-square-foot interior will seat 40 customers; it contains a new kitchen and bar as well as handicapped-accessible restrooms. The beverages it produces will be available only at the brewery, in both 32-ounce cans (â&#x20AC;&#x153;crowlersâ&#x20AC;?) and 64-ounce jugs (â&#x20AC;&#x153;growlersâ&#x20AC;?).

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18 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

NEWS BRIEFS

Olivia’s Croutons debuts new state-of-the-art facility BRANDON—The owners of Olivia’s Crouton Company have announced they moved to their newly renovated, state-ofthe-art commercial bakery in Brandon, according to a Feb. 9 news release. The move allows for increased capacity, dedicated gluten free facility, certified organic, trending packaging options, portion control solutions, custom packaging, expanded cutting and seasoning ability, improved R&D capabilities, and co-packing and private label capabilities. “This move really represents the next big step for our company,” stated Francie Caccavo, founder of Olivia’s. “We are excited about the possibilities our new production facility offers.”

Timed with the move, Olivia’s also unveiled a complete packaging redesign which they debuted at the Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco last month. The trademark gable-top box has been replaced with a modern, rectangular flat top box, reducing merchandizing obstacles for retailers. As well, the packaging has a new look to better differentiate flavors and dietary preferences. “The product remains true to Olivia’s crouton’s promise of baking with only ‘clean, real ingredients.” Caccavo added. “For 27 years our ingredients list has included whole foods like real butter, fresh garlic and dried herbs, no flavorings or stabilizers –this is real food.”

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Melinda Sanborn, director of nursing, and Tim Urich, administrator of The Pines at Rutland, accept the 2017 National Cup award for their center’s customer service.

The Pines at Rutland receives National Customer Service Cup RUTLAND—The Pines at Rutland Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation was recently awarded National Health Care Associates’ Customer Service Cup for 2017. This award is a culmination of consistently high customer service scores throughout 2017 from families and patients at the 99 Allen Street center. Since 2012, National Health Care Associates (NHCA), the manager and operator of The Pines at Rutland, has contracted with Pinnacle Quality Insights, an independent polling company to provide customer service results for their 40 centers. The results are tabulated and compared against all NHCA-related centers, as well as Pinnacle’s national average. The Pines at Rutland received the highest overall rating for all NHCA-affiliated centers. “I am very proud of the staff at The Pines at Rutland for receiving this award and recognition – really from their patients, residents and their families, based on their stellar Pinnacle results for 2017. Our number

one priority each day is the wellness and satisfaction of our patients and residents,” stated Marvin Ostreicher, president of National Health Care Associates. “The four pillars of our mission statement are simply kindness, compassion, service and excellence. The Pines at Rutland clearly exemplifies our mission.” The Pines at Rutland was designated by the state of Vermont as one of the top five skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers in 2015 and 2012. The Nursing Home Quality Award - 2015 was presented to The Pines at Rutland, based on the CMS Star rating, customer satisfaction survey results, and successful state survey results. U.S. News & World Report has also named The Pines at Rutland Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation as one of its “Best Nursing Homes” for 2013, 2014, 2015, and again for the 2016-17 year. The Pines at Rutland is located near Rutland Regional Medical Center in Rutland, at 99 Allen Street.

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The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 19

NEWS BRIEFS

Building professionals are optimistic about year ahead, poll shows Optimism ruled the room Feb. 7 at the Better Buildings by Design conference, hosted by Efficiency Vermont, where several hundred building performance professionals were asked if they felt 2018 would be a more, less, or equally profitable year for their business compared to 2017. Results showed that 60 percent expect profits to go up, compared to 30 percent who expect flat profits, and only 7 percent expecting lower profits this year. “I think it’s going to be a good year because there’s a lot to do out there. A lot of the lighting retrofits we’ve done in the past have come to the end of their life and now there are new technologies that can actually cut our customers’ usage in half,” said Russell Bowen, owner of Rusty’s Electric in Newport. Bowen said his company has grown from two employees to four in recent years, growth he attributes in large part to efficient lighting work. During her opening remarks at the start of the conference, Efficiency Vermont Director Karen Glitman stressed the importance of the partnership between Efficiency Vermont and the many contractors, design firms, suppliers and retailers who deliver energy efficiency products and services to Vermont customers. “The results of the live poll are a valuable way to take the pulse of the industry and get a sense of what challenges and opportunities are on our partners’ minds as we start the year, and what Efficiency Vermont can do to best support them,” said Glitman. Glitman noted that in 2017, Efficiency Vermont and its trade allies supported 15,500 businesses, helping them to save a combined $106 million over the lifetime of the energy efficiency investments they made. On the residential side, more than 106,000 Vermonters will save a combined $80 million over the lifetime of the 2017 energy efficiency investments they made in their homes, she said.

Free tax preparation offered for eligible taxpayers RUTLAND—BROC Community Action, 45 Union St. in downtown Rutland, is again offering free tax assistance as a VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) site to those earning under $54,000, the disabled, seniors and those with limited English. Volunteers from Castleton University’s accounting program and staff can prepare and file federal income tax returns, Vermont state income tax returns, homestead declarations and property tax adjustment claims, household income schedules and renter rebate claims. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sponsors the VITA program and all volunteers and staff receive training from the IRS and the Vermont Department of Taxes. Call for an appointment, 802-775-0878 or 800-717-2762. For more information visit broc.org.

r ?

Vermont Beardies seeks magnificent scruff Contest seeks to find the best beard in Vermont

Make-A-Wish Vermont and ArtsRiot in Burlington have teamed up for a truly Vermont-style fundraiser with the Second Annual Vermont Beardies: the Contest To Find the Best Beard in Vermont. Bearded Vermonters are invited to enter their magnificent scruff and encourage their friends to support Make-A-Wish Vermont through social media appeals. Contestants will compete online in three categories: Urban, Freestyle, and Backwoods. The contest will culminate with an exciting evening to name the winner featuring celebrity judges and fun contests. In order to participate, bearded contestants must pre-register now at vermontbeardies.com. The top beards and fundraisers from the online portion of the contest will be invited to participate in a series of in-person contests to judge the majesty of their beards on March 24 at ArtsRiot in Burling-

Courtesy of Julie Richards Photography

2017 Vermont Beardies winner Bryan Sturge poses with Wish Kid Noah Cohen. ton at 5 p.m. The judging panel will include Jonathan Goldsmith (Does Equis’ original Most Interesting Man In The World), Bryan Sturge (2017’s Beardies winner), Jason Gross of Vermont Beard & Mustache, Co., and Wish Kid Noah Cohen.

While promising to be a night of awesome beards, crazy contests, and tons of laughs, the Vermont Beardies is being held to raise much needed funding for Make-A-Wish Vermont. The goal of the event is to fund wishes for two children in Vermont

facing critical illnesses. Make-A-Wish Vermont creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. A wish is often the turning point in child’s recovery. Since 1989, Make-A-Wish Vermont has granted over 800 wishes.

Lost skier directed out of woods KILLINGTON—On February 8, at approximately 3:59 p.m., Troopers from the Vermont State Police Rutland Barracks were notified of a lost skier, Nathan Tolosky age 23 from Perkinsville, Vt., who had skied out of bounds from Killington Mountain. Killington Search and Rescue and Vermont State Police were able to guide Tolosky down the Buckland Trail to Wheelerville Road in the Town of Mendon, where he was medically screened by regional ambulance and picked up by family members.

State to duck hunters: Take your blinds with you Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department reminds waterfowl hunters who did not remove their hunting blinds from the waters of the state earlier that they must do so by Feb. 15 on Lake Champlain and by May 15 on inland waters. State law requires removal of the blinds before these deadlines in order to protect natural areas and to prevent boating accidents after the ice melts. Batchelder says wardens have recorded names and addresses of blind owners and will follow up with inspections.

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20 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

NEWS BRIEFS

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The Killington Aquatic Club competed in a regional meet earlier this month.

Killington area swimmers compete at regionals

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KILLINGTON—The Killington Aquatic Club (KAC) had recordbreaking numbers this year with over 65 swimmers participating. Of those, 13 KAC swimmers competed Feb. 10-11 at regionals at Upper Valley Aquatic Center. Each swimmer had to accomplish a certain time in an event in order to qualify for the event. The 13 swimmers and their ages are: Heidi Alf (13), Stefanie Allen (16), Ethan Courcelle (14) Carter Freund (10), Pema Kerins (8), Logan Knox (11), Hannah Lantiegne (8), Julia Michel (17), Otto Nisimblat (14), Sophia Nisimblat (11), Justine Peters (14), Mattie Peters (13), and Earl Saunders (8). After the winter season is over, these swimmers will continue to swim for their summer team in Killington or Rutland City. “I am so excited that White’s Pool will be opening again this summer before my senior year starts. This is the first year I have swum in the winter months, and now I get

to finish my swimming career at the pool I grew up with!” said Julia Michel, a junior at Rutland High School. The Killington Aquatic Club is a competitive USA Swim Team that rents the Pico Sports Club pool in the evenings from October through March. The team has all ages ranging from 5 to 18.The team is also unique because the team has representation from area schools: Rutland High School, Rutland Intermediate School and elementary schools, Rutland Town, Castleton, Christ the King, Barstow, Killington Elementary School, Woodstock Middle and High School, and Stockbridge, said head coach Kim Peters. “I really like swimming for KAC because I meet friends from other schools, and we have become very close throughout the last few years,” said Ethan Courcelle from Christ the King. Many of the swimmers swim in the winter months to gain the competitive

edge for the upcoming summer league swims, but they soon discover they are training to qualify for winter qualifying swim meets “I am always amazed when a swimmer-athlete tells me they want to swim so they can go faster in the summer! I then tell them, Well, you can also work hard to be able to swim faster in the winter” said Peters. “We also get athletes that join our cross training program, which is not as competitive or as much as a time commitment, but then they discover they enjoy being competitive in the water and they really like getting faster, so they bump up their practice commitmen.t” Last year KAC graduated Bailey Peters, who now is a college athlete swimmer on scholarship at Southern Connecticut. As a freshman, Bailey will get the chance to swim the maximum of three individual events and three relays. He will be competing in Rhode Island for the NE10 Championship Central.

Funding available for Vermont artists Funding is now available for Vermont artists and arts organizations through the Vermont Arts Endowment Fund and the Concert Artists Fund at the Vermont Community Foundation, according to a news release Feb. 8. The Vermont Arts Endowment Fund awards grants up to $5,000 to support the creation and presentation of new work by Vermont artists and arts organizations. Grants are typically made in the fields of dance, Submitted theater, music composition and Arts grants will be preserved in Vermont. performance, creative writing (including poetry, short stories, novels, and plays), sculpture, painting, photography, and film, although work in other media may also be eligible. The Concert Artists Fund awards grants up to $10,000 per year to support organizations that present performances of classical music in Chittenden County on a two-year funding cycle. Applications to both funds will be accepted through April 12, 2018. For more information visit vermontcf.org/availablegrants.

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 21

NEWS BRIEFS

Cobra gymnasts stand atop podiums Meat-free: RUTLAND—The Cobra gymnasts proved they are a team built on perseverance and passion for their sport after traveling to Nashua, N.H., for the Friendship Classic on Feb 3. The USAG Level 6, 7 and 8 teams unified their strengths to make their mark on the podium. The energy in the gym was highly competitive, but the team showed consistency and tumbled their way to seven podium finishes, said Shelby Collett owner of Cobra Gymnastics & Dance. In the Level 6 competition, Robin Tashjian of Manchester claimed a silver medal on Vault, while Mia Marsh of Rutland Town claimed a bronze medal. Karena Kuehl of Rutland claimed a gold medal on balance beam and a bronze in the all-around. In the Level 7 meet, Maleah Jones of Rutland captured a silver medal on balance beam while her teammate, Lili Zens, of Manchester, captured a bronze medal on vault. Ella Tashjian of Manchester, the team’s only Level 8, captured a silver medal on vault. The team traveled again this past weekend, Feb. 10-11, to Northern Light’s Gymnastics in White River Junction. Competing in the Groovin’ Classic were the Bronze, Silver and Gold Xcel teams in addition to the USAG Level 6, 7 and 8 teams. All eligible teams took home first place trophies with the exception of the Silver team who came away with a close second place finish. There were over 45 girls competing for Cobra, with dozens of first, second and third place podium finishes. The Level 3 Junior Olympic team travel to St. Johnsbury for a Compulsory Sectional meet. Jayla Eugair of Brandon took first place on vault, floor and all-around. The team is heading into the home stretch of the competitive season. The Green Mountain Invitational in early March will provide the last big competition before the Vermont state meet on March 17 and 18.

Courtesy of Cobra Gymnastics

The Cobra Gymnastics & Dance team of Rutland holds recently won trophies and metals.

Letter in support of a meat-free diet

continued from page 6 mutilated, and beaten. Today’s supermarkets are well in tune with the call to abstain from eating animals. They offer a rich array of plant-based meats, milks, cheeses, and ice creams, as well as the more traditional vegetables,

Common ground:

fruits, and grains. Entering “vegetarian” or “vegan” in your favorite search engine provides lots of meat replacement products, recipes, and transition tips. Sincerely, Rudy Hitchcock, Rutland

Letter on commonalities between parties

continued from page 6 or political health of the nation. The career politicians and the leadership of each party want nothing to do with a constitutional amendment requiring term limits. Why would they? Term limits threaten their accumulated wealth and immense power. Term limits would restrain their ability to fleece the taxpayer and violate the people’s liberty. The second thing that the base of each party has in common is its disgust with crony capitalism. Crony capitalism (not to be confused with free market capitalism) is when special interest groups, labor unions included, lobby politicians for favors. These favors include tax incentives, government subsidies and any other allowances that benefit the private interest or emolument of any one man or woman, family, or class of men or women. The list of failures when politicians pick winners and losers in an economy is long. The biggest losers are always taxpayers and consumers. Crony capitalism drives up costs, reduces quality of products and stifles innovation all at the same time emptying the pockets of the citizen. The authors of the original Vermont Constitution, way back in 1777, were well aware of the negative effects of taxpayer funded favors. So much so that they wrote Article 6 of that document as a prohibition against crony capitalism. It reads: “VI. That

government is, or ought to be, instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security of the people, nation or community; and not for the particular emolument or advantage of any single man, family or set of men, who are a part only of that community; and that the community hath an indubitable, unalienable and indefeasible right to reform, alter, or abolish, government, in such manner as shall be, by that community, judged most conducive to the public weal.” Any Vermonter who is paying attention to the political skulduggery in Montpelier knows that Article 6 is completely ignored. Having mingled with many Vermont politicians I have found that most of them have never even read our constitution. The New Hampshire constitution has a similar clause. The politicians on that side of the river have set a precedent by actually adhering to the clause. This appears to greatly benefit the political culture and economy of that state. Despite the present hostilities between factions in Vermont and the larger nation I am hopeful that the people will take a breath and start to demand structural changes that could be made to rein in the excesses and abuses of the politicians that represent us. Sincerely, Stuart Lindberg, Cavendish

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22 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

NEWS BRIEFS

Pico: Where action, tradition, and community still meet

By Karen D. Lorentz

Some folks get “old” and stodgy when they turn 80, and hey, it’s their right, they earned it. But when it comes to old age and ski areas, many areas have been unable to survive the struggles of erratic seasons, economic ups and downs, and leadership changes Getting to 80 isn’t just a challenge, it’s a rare accomplishment, with Pico one of the oldest 30 areas in the ski industry as it enjoys its 81st ski season this year. The area debuted Thanksgiving

Day 1937 and was open every season, including during World War II and many lean snow years. Pico adventurous Pico is a grande dame of classic and tradition, which means the area has been adventurous from the start. Pico attracted top racers in the 1930s and 40s when they had to “skin” up the side of the then-narrow Sunset Schuss trail to race down, as there was no lift to the summit until 1965. Some of the early races were even held by moonlight!

Courtesy of Vermont Adaptive

Vermont Adaptive guides and visually impared skiers stand atop Pico’s summit.

The racing tradition continues, albeit with chairlift service by daylight today. Witness the Spandex-clad racers who race on “B” Slope. Or the rest of us who have joined fun Antique or Mountain Dew or other easy races on Lower Pike. Five years ago, a second timing system was added so, it By Karen D. Lorentz wouldn’t be just the Pico Rutland High School ski team members boot up in the Ski Club kids running fast Pico Ski Club facility for a high school race, Feb. 1. and loose. College teams, ski councils, and clubs are enjoying the last longer and Upper GK is still tough, gates. too. Then there’s the addition of the ter But toughest depends on the surfaces rain parks over the years. Pico has added of the day and each of these trails can act elements, not pounds — features for as the toughest trails on different days. young or old, big or little, up the advenAnd then there’s Bronco, one of the ture ante. longest consistently steep trails which is A tough narrow trail called Poma Line seldom groomed so it tends to bump up was also added. A former Pomalift was into a great mogul trail. removed due to low usage so when Pico Pico, the”little beast” turned 75, Poma Line was added to the To further support racing as well as official trail map! Poma Line became the Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports legal — a fun challenge for someone (VASS) program, which makes it posridiculously fast with agile young legs sible for people with disabilities to who enjoys a fast mambo. ski or ride, Pico’s owner donated land True, you need natural snowfall to ski (between the administration/ski shop it but it harkens back to the days of the building and the Ski Club’s building) to narrow Upper Giant Killer — the 1970s the Pico Ski Education Foundation, the on Upper GK when it was sometimes fundraising arm for the Ski Club, and impossible to get skis across it and VASS. They fundraised to build the twowhere you hopped like a bunny to avoid story, elevator served Andrea Mead Lawstumps on low natural snow. rence Lodge, which they share (VASS on There are other tough trails like A the first floor and PSEF on the second). Slope with its upper cliff/headwall and By extending the mountain’s welcome super steep top section. Wrangler, Upto those with disabilities, the Vermont per KA, and Sunset 77 are challenging Adaptive program provides a wonderful for their consistent steep pitches that service and is a huge asset to Pico. Pico turns 80, page 23

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The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 23

NEWS BRIEFS

Pico turns 80:

One of Vermont’s oldest ski resorts celebrates 80 seasons, a look back

continued from page 22 Other services and facilities added over the many years of Pico history include: the Bonanza beginner area and more chairlifts; new and expanded base lodge; learn-to programs for local school children; daycare program offering childcare; modern slopeside village with Sports Center; and an ambassador program. Pico’s learn-to programs often act as a feeder to Killington, a.k.a. the Beast of the East. Now in its 81st season, Pico is still a dramatic, tall, and broad mountain, but now it sports 57 trails with a 1,967-foot vertical served by two detachable quads,

continued from page 13 snowmaking, and a nice diversity of terrain that includes wide easy and intermediate trails on the lower mountain. Through all the changes Pico has retained a loyal following and strong race tradition. Pico’s Director of Operations Rich McCoy attributes this loyalty to “strong programs and to the feel of the mountain. It’s an old-school mountain with three working fireplaces in a timber-frame base lodge. All trails funnel to one convenient base area, and the longtime staff make everyone feel at home and welcome,” he noted.

Courtesy of Pico

Skiers from decades past pick their way down Pico’s historic KA trail.

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Rockin’ the Region: a three-war veteran — he served in the Navy in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Thayer said, “I didn’t have enough songs for a two-hour show, so for the two weeks prior I was learning away like crazy. He helped me a lot and actually got my foot in the door where I really wanted to become a musician. I wasn’t paid, but I was paid out in tips.” Sadly, his neighbor passed in January 2016, but Thayer still gets back there to play when he can. He played some open mics in Maine, and some of those lead to regular gigs like Cole Farms in Gray, Maine. Thayer hasn’t gotten into song writing too much. “I’ve made my attempts,” he said. “It’s more the fact that I feel like I’m too young to write because I don’t have the experiences yet. I have a mission and goal to start working on it, but somehow you just lose it. You start to work on different lyrics or you have an idea that you’re passionate about, but then when it comes to the flow of writing you just suddenly lose it. I wrote a really bad song a long time ago and that was my own sound. I can do Johnny Cash, but for my own sound I can differentiate between the two. When I sing ‘Blackbird’ or ‘Hallelujah,’ it’s in a different voice than when I sing Johnny Cash.” At the Outback you can expect to hear a lot of country, but he will mix in some other genres, too. He said, “I learned ‘Blackbird’ by the Beatles a long time ago and recently added it to my set. A week ago I started expanding my range.” He can also play CCR, Jimmy Buffet and Ed Sheeran. He is mostly a country music guy and said, “For me I like all genres but country is something that became me after I started playing Johnny Cash. To go further from there, country really suits my voice.” Thayer likes the reactions he gets when he plays. He said, “That’s one of my favorite things when I play Johnny Cash ... I like to play it so close to the original because of ... how people react to it. They like the sound of it. They hear it and look up and tell me how much their dad loves the song or their grandfather used to play the song all the time. That’s one of my favorite parts because it connects with people. I also love when I play a song and people sing along.”

PETPersonals

24 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

BANDIT - 6-month-old. Neutered male. Border Collie/ Labrador Retriever mix. I’m a young, energetic, on the go fella who will get you off the couch this winter! I do love toys, too! I don’t know how to retrieve them but I love to chase them, especially tennis balls. Those are my favorites.

SEVEN - 4-year-old. Spayed female. Domestic Short Hair. Tortoiseshell with white. As you can tell by my picture I am a lovely tortoiseshell lady with patches of white. I am a unique cat to be sure. I will be at my best in a quiet home probably without younger children.

SCOOBY - 11-year-old. Neutered male. Siberian Husky mix. I’m an older fella but I’m pretty spunky and a joy to be around. I walk nicely on a leash and look forward to gentle strolls with my new family. I’m very social and I enjoy being with people and getting lots of love and attention.

BEAU - 6-year-old. Neutered male. Domestic Short Hair. Brown Tabby. I am a healthy and handsome male cat who is a classic brown tabby. I hope to be an indoor-only cat now. I was just a bit shy at first but a few healthy treats helped me to come out of my shell. I am a tidy gentleman.

SAM - 2-year-old. Neutered male. Labrador Retriever mix. I’m an outgoing fella who loves playing in the snow! It’s such fun and I do need lots of exercise and play time so romping in the snow is a good way for me to start. Walks, hikes and play time will be great, too.

Featuring pets from:

RUTLAND COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY LUCY MACKENZIE HUMANE SOCIETY SPRINGFIELD HUMANE SOCIETY

Springfield Humane Society

SHADOW - 4.5-year-old. Neutered male. Domestic Short Hair. Black. Hello my name is Shadow and I am a big lovely fella! When you first meet me, I can be a little timid and shy. Once I get to know you I blossom into a snuggle bug. I am not sure if I like cats, but I know I do not like dogs!

JR - Adult. Neutered male. Rex. White. Hello, my name is JR. I am a big fluffball who loves to snack on veggies and lounge around in my pen. I am somewhat comfortable being held. I do like to romp around from time to time as well.

ANNABEL Are you a single lady looking for the purrfect friend? Need someone to confide your secrets to? Someone who will join in the conversation, but not tell a soul? Well I am just the gal for you! My name is Annabel and I can already tell we are going to be best friends. Stop by 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, Vt., Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 4:30 or call 802-885-3997 for more information

COSMO - 9-year-old. Spayed female. Domestic Long Hair. Torbie. Hi there my name is Cosmo and as you can see I am one big stunning lady! One thing I need everyone to know about me is I get over stimulated rather quickly, meaning when I have had enough attention I like to be left alone.

HOWIE - 5-year-old. Neutered male. Labrador Retriever/Pit Bull mix. I’m a big fella with a big personality to match! I’m very outgoing and social and I’m fun to be around. I love hanging out with my favorite people and getting lots of love and attention. I’m a happy go lucky guy who acts like a puppy.

AMELIA - Adult. Spayed female. Rex. White. Hello, my name is Amelia. I am a big fluffball who loves to snack on carrots and lounge around in my pen. I am adorable and will follow you around. I like to follow the staff here when they are cleaning my pen.

SEBASTIAN - 7-year-old. Neutered male. Domestic Short Hair. Black. Hello, my name is Sebastian. As you can see I am a stunning, handsome gentleman. My large green eyes may steal your heart. I arrived at RCHS on Christmas Eve, when I was brought in as a stray.

RESHI - 8-year-old. Spayed female. Domestic Long Hair. Black. I am sure to catch your eye with my stunning looks! I am a beautiful long-haired kitty with a very loveable personality. I have lived with children and did well with them, I have also lived with other cats and dogs and didn’t mind them.

Lucy Mackenzie Humane Society

All of these pets are available for adoption at

Rutland County Humane Society

765 Stevens Road, Pittsford, VT • (802) 483-6700 Tues. - Sat. 12-5p.m., Closed Sun. & Mon. • www.rchsvt.org

MOUNTA IN TIMES mountaintimes.info

MIDNIGHT Hi! My name’s Midnight and I’m a 10-year-old spayed female. I originally came to Lucy Mackenzie in 2015 because the youngest family member became sick and they soon realized it was because he was allergic to cats. I was adopted last year and returned several months later because the family I was living with had to move. Now, I’m back here looking for my new home! I live in one of the communal cat rooms where there are many nice places to take naps and lots of people come to visit. I tend to keep to myself and in my new home, I’d be most comfortable being the only cat or living with another calm cat. I may be older, but I have lots of life to live and lots of love to give. If you’re looking for an adorable senior gal that would love to live out her golden years in the comfort of a home, stop in and meet me today! Lucy Mackenzie Humane Society is located at 4832 Route 44, West Windsor, Vt. We’re open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 12 - 4 p.m. Reach us daily at 802-484-LUCY. Visit us at www. lucymac.org, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter. We hope to see you soon!

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 25

It’s a climactic period By Cal Garrison, a.k.a. Mother of the Skye

This week’s Horoscopes are coming out under the light of a Capricorn Moon, with aspects that fit right in with what happens when the Moon is in the last gasp of its waning phase. Right before the Moon turns “New” there is not much we can do but tie up loose ends and finish the things that got started a month ago. The New Moon will kick in on Feb. 15, under the light of a Solar Eclipse at the 27th degree of the Aquarius-Leo axis. We have until Thursday of this week to tidy up whatever needs to be tended to and put the last four weeks of activity to bed. You don’t need to be an astrologer to see that we are moving through a climactic period of time. On an earthly scale look for all things Asian to show up on the screen. This would surface as anything from a night out at a Chinese restaurant, to a decision to buy a Honda instead of a Ford, to news reports that showcase China, Japan, Korea, India, and the Philippines. On a cosmic scale, if we take Galactic Center to be the hub of the cosmos, sandwiched between the two “Destroyers” we could postulate anything from a string of cataclysmic meteorological, or globally disastrous events, to a full-on pole shift. In addition to the Siva/Siwa/Galactic Center midpoint, the Centaurs, Ixion and Pholus, happen to be situated smack dab on the same spot. There are at present 97 known Centaurs, a.k.a.: “Outer planet crossers. Minor bodies whose heliocentric orbit crosses the orbits of the other outer planet giants (Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) The orbits of the Centaurs are dynamically unstable due to interactions with the giant planets.” Getting back to the conjunction of Pholus and Ixion with Galactic Center, and their close proximity to Siva and Siwa—The myths tell us that Pholus uncorked a bottle of wine and unleashed havoc among the Centaurs, an act which had lethal consequences for everyone involved. Pholus happens to be the archetype for what happens when “We blow the lid off” things. Ixion is the Centaur who got away with murder. He governs bad boys, betrayal, murder, mayhem, narcissism, and the prospect of second chances, In combination with the destructive energy that shows up whenever Siva and Siwa, the two great destroyers, are in the room, the picture is beyond volatile; the words poison and genocide come to mind. Depending upon your perspective, this could shed light on current events, and give rise to any number of different scenarios, none of which are very pretty. I would say more but this isn’t the place to be making hard and fast apocalyptic predictions — and it would be oxymoronic to try to come up with a succinct definition for what we’re going through right now. We could try to take the edge off things, but you can’t sugar coat stuff like this, and spiritual platitudes don’t apply when we’re in the eye of the needle. When you’re under the gun, be mindful of what works and what doesn’t, and take what you can from this week’s ‘scopes.

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Aries

Cancer

Libra

Capricorn

March 21 - April 20

June 21 - July 20

September 21 - October 20

December 21 - January 20

hings are working out a lot better than you thought they would. At this point it might be good to review things and decide where to go from here. As much as you’re fine with all of this, it won’t hurt to fine tune it, or turn it up a notch. In your dealings with people it is essential to be as sensitive as you can. In some cases playing both ends to the middle might be in order. It may be hard to use pretenses to get what you want, but, sometimes all of us have to do what’s expedient. In a few months the boat will get rocked. With any luck it will turn your situation into something fantastic.

ou have a lot of good luck circulating around you right now. It could be generating levels of optimism that make it seem as if you can’t lose. Everything will work out just fine if you allow your common sense to coincide with the idea that you’ve got it made. This is a huge milestone, at which the ability to step out of the box is being heavily challenged by your primary issues. As the next six months unfold experiences that rout out your deepest fears will be part of the scenery. These things will test you to the max and either forge a new beginning or keep you stuck in the past.

little distance will do wonders for your attitude. You’ve been tied to your situation for one reason or another and you’ve lost sight of what’s important. At times like this it’s good to change the routine just enough to see who you are when it isn’t the same old thing. Others and their needs and considerations press a little too heavily on yours. Don’t expect them to all of a sudden wake up and see the extent to which they impose, or fool yourself into thinking that if you just keep being nice they’ll stop using up your patience and time. It’s your turn to draw the line.

ou wish you could figure out how this is going to play out, but you are at the mercy of time and the actions of other people. I hate to say it but this is a crap shoot. Those of you who have been able to remain grounded in the midst of people and things that would call anyone to walk off the set, are going to come out of this in one piece - or at least be able to live with yourself. Those of you who keep trying to make the most out of whatever you’re trying to milk from this will be ensnared by your greed find yourselves facing more than one demon before the week is out.

Taurus

Leo

Scorpio

Aquarius

April 21 - May 20

July 21 - August 20

October 21 - November 20

January 21 - February 20

lot of things are about to change and you’re either in touch with this or you’re wondering why nothing seems to be working. If you can detach enough to look at this with a wide angle lens it will soon be apparent that the pins are getting pulled out of a situation that has outlived its purpose. Trying to maintain it in the form that it’s always taken isn’t going to work. Look back to where you were at seven years ago. Whatever your goals were, time and experience have altered things enough for you to have to shift your focus and redefine where you want to go from here.

ou keep thinking that the answers are outside of yourself. In your efforts to find them you go everywhere, searching for what’s missing. If it was ever there, whatever’s missing left a long time ago. When it went, it took the piece of you that knows what you want to a place that made you beholden to what everyone else wanted, and needed from you. Now that you’re all grown up, life has taken you too far from your own core for you to be clear about who you get to be. That has got to change. Start shining the light within. There’s no better time than now to be who you are.

t may be too late to turn this around. If it is, you’re the one who’s going to have to take what’s left and figure out what to do with it. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but don’t hesitate to look at how your actions have contributed to some of the stuff that’s haunting you now. If it helps, everyone is dealing with their version of the same thing. In situations like this it’s always more about holding steady and regrouping than it is about doing anything rash. Even if you wanted to make it all go away, you couldn’t. Consider the uses of adversity and let caution reign over impulse.

ow that the stakes are getting higher, all of a sudden you could care less! This will work out favorably for you, believe it or not. You’re in a situation where the politics are off the charts. Whether it’s the politics of love, or the politics of money and power, centrifugal forces that are beyond your control make you wonder if you need to call a lawyer - or an analyst - at this point it’s a tossup for many of you. As the intensity of things calls you to set your boundaries a little tighter than usual don’t close yourself off to love, or the ones who actually know who you are.

Gemini

Virgo

Sagittarius

Pisces

May 21 - June 20

August 21 - September 20

November 21 - December 20

February 21 - March 20

he hassles of the last year have brought you to a place where decisions have to be made. The issue right now boils down to ‘“hould I stay or should I go?’’ In some cases it translates as whether to fish or cut bait. Making up your mind would be easier if you could see around the corner. Gun shy from some of the challenges that have worn out your confidence, you are either totally paranoid about making a move, or you’ve manufactured a sense of bravado that isn’t based on anything real. It’s time to ground yourself clearly enough to make the right move.

his is one of those times when you need to take the good with the bad. Whatever you’re hoping for could go either way. With superficial signs that you can’t lose, it’s what’s hiding behind the scenes that you need to be aware of. Your illusions are also standing in the way. In addition to that, your fears and the issues that keep you a slave to them will prevent the best possibilities from manifesting. You may be 100 percent clear about what you’re after, but making your dreams come true will require a ton of reflection before what you’re hoping for will come to pass.

ou are looking at a new beginning. As much as it seems as if a lot of things have run their course, this is the definition of “when one door closes, another one opens.” If you think it’s too late for new starts, the cycle of change in this reality is never ending. With old baggage nipping at your heels, it’s the prospect of what’s next that will allow you to shake off the past and renew yourself. Perplexed by a multitude of options, and the sense that ‘you can’t start this, until you’ve finished that’ you’d do well to ground yourself in the present long enough to embrace the future.

Mother of the Skye

ou have a more realistic grip on your role in this situation. Erasing your illusions has done a lot to get you in touch with some of the stuff that has kept success at bay up until now. At this point the playing field belongs to you and if you aren’t running the show, you’re seeing good results from whatever it took to keep your head above water. There are still hurdles to cross, and plenty of challenges. I see people who could easily deceive, or trick you into thinking they have your best interests in mind. Be careful. This is no time to give people more credit than they deserve.

Mother of the Skye has 40 years of experience as an astrologer and tarot consultant. She may be reached by email to cal.garrison@gmail.com

26 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

This was the week that was There is a magic that happens when everything goes right, and everything is going right. Not only has the snow been phenomenal, but this has been straight up one of the best, most important weeks of my adult life. And counter to my usual, this is not a week that was important because of bad things I needed to overcome. This was not a Altitude week that was important Altit Sick Sickness in retrospect. This was not By br brady a week that was important crain because I made lemonade out of lemons. This is a week that I was given a lot of cake, with some really nice icing. The icing, quite literally, was the skiing. Sunday was great, Monday was epic. Monday was one of the best ski days of my life, not because of the depth of the snow, but because of the crew with whom I rode (I usually ski alone). They were all less than half my age, and they were all tremendous skiers, and I was very surprised that I kept up with them well. The day started beautifully, and went from there – dry, gorgeous powder, not too deep, but dense enough to feel deep and to cover most of the monsters waiting in hiding in the woods to kill my skis.

I EVEN GOT A PROP FROM ONE OF THE YOUNG GUNS, SAYING SOMETHING TO THE BASIC TUNE OF, “IT CAN’T BE EASY TO LAND SOMETHING LIKE THAT ...” We started at Bear Mountain, catching some amazing powder turns, and eventually we went up to Killington Peak. We took Helter Skelter (which I haven’t been on in years – I always forget about that fantastic little trail). I was catching up to my younger friend (the rest of the crew were his friends), so I popped to the left of a tree at a breakneck clip and noticed, way too late, that it was a fairly large drop. Screaming obscenities I dropped off it without slowing and stuck the powdery landing perfectly, stopping to look back, because I had done something I never would have done on purpose, especially having had back surgery last year. It was consequence-free, by the way, a perfect landing: soft underfoot, tight core (my free heels didn’t even lift), and when you’re going fast, the ground contact moment of inertia is spread out over square feet instead of swear inches, effectively reducing the force of the impact. I stopped below the hit to look back admiringly at what I had done (it was somewhere in the 12 to 15 foot range from the takeoff to the landing I think, but memory exaggerates these things), and realized that there was a skier, also completely surprised, following hard on my heels. It is fortunate that he went a little bit to the left, because he would have landed directly on me. It turns out that he also had no idea what he was getting into (only having the warning of my yelled obscenities), and also stuck the landing perfectly, next to me. This was one of the greatest ski moments of my life – realizing not only that I was good enough to do that without flopping on my face (landing a cliff on Telemark skis is a far different thing than on alpines, because the slightest imbalance can be fatal for upright delivery of a ski turn). I even got a prop from one of the young guns, saying something to the basic tune of, “It can’t be easy to land something like that with a free heel.” It’s nice to be noticed. From there we headed off into the skier’s right of The Light, which was tight and amazing, and we hit every piece of air on the way down, and there is some impressive air available around Flume and Lower Cascade if you know where to look. We did Dipper Woods a few times, then went back to Bear Mountain, where we caught even more powder, more big air, and just crushed it. Tuesday was spectacular, and late Wednesday was super creamy in the woods, arguably the best skiing of the week. Once again dry and dense, it covered up any remaining imperfections in the woods. All of the woods were in excellent shape. Thursday was epic, but way harder for me. I don’t know if this was because my legs were tired from skiing more Altitude Sickness, page 29

By Carolyn Lorié

Northern visitors descend

I have been keeping a close watch on my birdfeeders. Not only because I love seeing the juncos and goldfinches that arrive in flocks, and the black-capped chickadees that zip around, and even the blue jays that tend to scare everyone else away, but because I am hoping for some not-sotypical visitors: red crossbills and pine siskins. Both are year-round residents of northern boreal forests, as well as the Rockies and Pacific Northwest. It’s not unusual to see them in New England in the winter, but every few years, large numbers of them arrive in search of food. These sudden population shifts are known as irruptions. In addition to red crossbills and pine siskins, other irruptive species include evening grosbeaks, redpolls, and perhaps most famously, snowy owls, which have been frequently observed this year. Irruptions are often driven by food. In the case of the red crossbills and pine siskins, the failure of conifer crops in the West has displaced them from their typical winter grounds. In the case of snowy owls, which spend summers north of the Arctic Circle, last year’s boom in the population of lemmings, voles and other prey led to a wildly successful breeding season. That has resulted in more birds heading south and looking for food. But exactly how many more birds? What constitutes an irruption? “The lines blur,” said Matt Young, who works for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Macaulay Library. “There’s no defined threshold other than larger than usual numbers.” For example, in the winter of 200708, data from Project FeederWatch, a winter survey of birds overseen by the Cornell Lab, noted that pine siskins were present at 24 percent of their sites in the lower 48 states and the average flock size was about 11 birds. The following year there was an irruption and pine siskins were reported to be at 50 percent of the sites, in flocks averaging 15 birds. Irruptions tend to occur every few years among various species.

But about once a decade there is a superflight year, when numerous bird species are on the move due to a combination of environmental forces. The Northeast had a superflight year in the winter of 1997-98, said Young, when large numbers of pine grosbeaks, evening grosbeaks, common and hoary redpolls, red crossbills, white-winged crossbills and pine siskins arrived in force. While those species travel in flocks, snowy owls tend to be solitary. But one is all it takes to create a stir. With their ghostly feathers, yellow eyes and a wingspan of more than four feet, they have an otherworldly look about them. One of these owls has taken up residence in the coastal town of Rye, N.H., and has caused such a commotion that the police are considering ticketing people who disturb the bird or trespass on private property in an effort to catch a glimpse of it.

for a snowy owl. I drove down the road to the Vermont Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery to see if I might have better luck there. The cemetery slopes up a hill and has plenty of coniferous trees

Closer to my home, a snowy owl was reported on the campus of Vermont Technical College (VTC) in Randolph. Brian Lowe, a bird enthusiast and leader of the Audubon Christmas Day count for Orange County, said it was first spotted in November and was still in the area in mid-January. Recently, I attended an event in Randolph and took the opportunity for a side visit to the VTC campus. I drove around slowly, looking at the big open fields that border the school, trying to guess the ideal vantage point

crossbill, pine siskin or snowy owl. But I loved the idea that I could have. And still might. Carolyn Lorié lives in Post Mills,Vt. with her partner, Rick, and their three dogs, two of whom are well behaved. The illustration for this column was drawn by Adelaide Tyrol. The Outside Story is assigned and edited by Northern Woodlands magazine, northernwoodlands.org, and sponsored by the Wellborn Ecology Fund of New Hampshire Charitable Foundation: wellborn@nhcf.org.

THE OUTSIDE STORY

that might also draw red crossbills and pine siskins. The open fields next to VTC were within sight. It was in the low 40s, sunny and breezy. After weeks of sub-zero nights and single-digit days, the air felt warm and welcoming. I had the place to myself and took pleasure in walking around without a hat or gloves. Every so often I scanned the trees with my binoculars. I didn’t see a single red

A decision not made is still a decision For retirement plans, the worst nondecision is the failure to enroll. Not only do nonparticipants sacrifice one of the best ways to save for their eventual retirement, but they also forfeit the money from any matching contributions their employer may offer. Not participating may be one of the most costly MONEY MATTERS BY KEVIN THEISSEN non-decisions one can make. The other way individuals let indecision get the best of them is by not selecting the investments for the contributions they make to the 401(k) plan. When a participant fails to make an investment selection, the plan will have provisions for automatically investing that money. And that investment selection may not be consistent with the individual’s time horizon, risk tolerance and goals. Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10 percent federal income tax penalty. Generally, once you reach age 70½, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. The 10 percent early withdrawal penalty

may be avoided in the event of death or disability. For homeowners, “stuff” just seems to accumulate over time. The same may be true for investors. Some buy investments based on articles they have read or on a recommendation from a family member. Others may have investments held in a previous employer’s 401(k) plan. Over time, they can end up with a collection of investments that may have no connection to their investment objectives. Because the markets are dynamic, an investment that may have made good sense yesterday might no longer make sense today. By periodically reviewing what they own, investors can determine whether their portfolio reflects their current investment objectives. If they find discrepancies, they are able to make changes that could positively affect their financial future. Whatever your situation, your retirement investments require careful attention and benefit from deliberate, thoughtful decision making. Your retired self will one day be grateful that you invested the necessary time to make wise decisions today. Kevin Theissen is principal at Skygate Financial Group in Ludlow.

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 27

The wonder of nature à la Rachel Carson

High school sports and spirit

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find pesticides. reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts DDT was widely used and sprayed from trucks and . . . there is something infinitely healing in the repeated airplanes over fields and crops, in neighborhoods and citrefrains of nature – the assurance that dawn comes after ies; it killed malaria-causing mosquitoes, fire ants, gypsy night, and spring after the winter,” wrote Rachel Carson. moths, and myriad other creatures. “DDT is good for meIt’s hard to believe that it’s taken me decades to discover e-e!” was marketed to housewives for use in the home. my new American hero. I’ve always admired Amelia EarPeople knew nothing of its neurotoxicity and devastathart and hoped ing effects until the publication of “Silent Spring” in 1962. to learn to fly Carson was determined to reveal the truth to the world one day. But little and completed her masterpiece while secretly battling did I know of the cancer. brilliant, gentle, Rachel Carson’s bestselling controversial book eduyet determined cated President John Kennedy, America, and the world Mountain woman who is about the dangers of DDT (contamination of food, cancer, on Meditation recognized as genetic damage, and the death of entire species) and the By Marguerite te the mother of the vulnerability of nature to man’s intervention. At that time, Jill Dye environmental as now, science had become politicized and was under movement, Raattack. She was also attacked, discredited, belittled, and chel Carson. I was thrilled to discover a PBS documentary insulted by the chemical industry. But her book received on her life on “The American Experience” on pbs.org. wide acclaim, raised global awareness, and launched the Acclaimed scientist, marine biologist, environmental environmental movement. advocate, and gifted writer, Rachel Carson understood, Rachel Carson believed that the arrogance and lack of revered, and beautifully revealed the interconnectedness restraint in technology would lead humanity to disaster if of life. not guided by spiritual values and environmental ethics: Throughout her life she overcame daunting obstacles, to live in harmony with nature; preserve and learn from including leaving her doctoral studies at Johns Hopkins the natural places of the world; minimize the impact of to support her extended family. She worked in the Deman-made chemicals on natural systems; and consider partment of Fish and Wildlife, writing press releases and the implications of all human actions on the global web. reports. But she also gathered a plethora of scientific field The Rachel Carson Council, founded in 1965 after her reports that helped her build her greatest and final work. death, “seeks to inspire a reverence for life and build a What struck me most was Rachel’s love and wonder in sustainable, peaceful and just future ... through faith, scinature which began as a child in Pennsylvania with her ence, and action.” Under the leadership of Dr. Robert K. Presbyterian mother. As an adult, she shared earth, sea, Musil, the RCC’s president and CEO, 45 college campuses, and sky with her young a cross section of interested nephew Roger. They citizens, and diversity of RACHEL CARSON REVEALED AND studied tide pools along communities continue her PROTESTED THE FIRING OF THE HIGHLY the coast of Maine. work addressing public Each walk in the woods policy and uniting environTRAINED, SKILLED, AND EXPERIENCED became an adventure. I mental, health, and social SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR AND was thrilled to find “The issues under the umbrella of Sense of Wonder” while sustainability. OTHER VERY COMPETENT PROFESSIONAL looking for her most I heard Dr. Musil speak STAFF ... famous book. In it she about Rachel Carson’s life shared her passion for introducing children to nature’s joy and work at the Sarasota World Affairs Council. He directand wonder. ed the Nobel Peace Prize-winning Physicians for Social It was uncanny that I discovered Rachel Carson and her Responsibility and the Professionals’ Coalition for Nuclear sense of wonder at this time. My niece Laura just visited us Arms Control. He hosted NPR’s “Consider the Alternafrom Virginia and reminded me of a childhood experience tives” and has launched safe drinking water, clean air, toxic together. When she was little we went on “safaris,” searchpollution, and global climate change programs. ing for animals in her back yard. I carried her from shrub He described Rachel Carson’s studies on the outcome of to tree as we looked for elephants, tigers, and bears. I was nuclear testing with atomic bombs dropped in the Bikini amazed she remembered so vividly the delight we shared atoll islands, and how nuclear waste, fallout, and radiation when she was just two. It made an indelible impression on accumulate in organisms faster than they can eliminate her mind of a love of animals and imagination. them. He described Carson’s mission of climate justice Rachel Carson believed in the responsibility of nature and work to create global change, and how critical it is to writers to share the awe and wonder of the natural world work with all nations. with those who had hadn’t “been introduced.” A cross-secWe can’t do it alone. We need to elect a president and tion of Americans wrote her letters that they’d nearly lost Congress that believe in science and climate change. their faith in man. But she’d opened their eyes to the earth’s Ignoring the facts and undoing the progress won’t make history of millions of years, which had given them hope. the problem go away. We need young people to come on Rachel Carson was awarded the 1952 John Burroughs board to vote and join efforts on the earth’s behalf like the medal for nature writing for “The Sea around Us,” the last RCC and Citizens’ Climate Lobby, according to Rachelcarof her great ocean trilogy that included “Under the Sea soncouncil.org and citizensclimatelobby.org. Wind” (1940) and “The Edge of the Sea” (1955). In “Lost Woods,” a posthumous collection of Rachel “There has never been a greater need than there is today Carson’s unpublished writings edited by Linda Lear, I for the reporter and interpreter of the natural world,” she discovered her still-timely 1952 letter titled “Mr. Day’s Dissaid during her acceptance speech. “Mankind has gone missal” to the editor of the Washington Post. Eisenhower very far into an artificial world of his own creation. He had just won the election and Republicans began implehas sought to insulate himself, and his cities of steel and menting policies favoring big business over the environconcrete, from the realities of earth and water and the ment. Rachel Carson revealed and protested the firing of growing seed. Intoxicated with a sense of his own power, the highly trained, skilled, and experienced secretary of he seems to be going farther and farther into more experithe interior and other very competent professional staff, ments for the destruction of himself and his world. … The who were being replaced by non-professional political more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders appointees preparing to plunder public resources. Miss and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall Carson alerted Americans to the “proposed giveaway of have for the destruction of our race. Wonder and humility our off shore oil reserves and the threatened invasion of are wholesome emotions, and they do not exist side-bynational parks, forests and other public lands ... as a politiside with a lust for destruction.” cally minded administration returns us to the dark ages Technological advances since the 1900s have led to of unrestrained exploitation and destruction. … It is one our two greatest 21st century challenges: climate change, of the ironies of our time that, while concentrating on the the direct result of fossil fuel combustion which has been defense of our country against enemies from without, we the main system of worldwide energy production since should be so heedless of those who would destroy it from the 1900s, and pollution of the biosphere with synthetic within.” chemicals that have carcinogenic, mutagenic, and enIsn’t it uncanny how history repeats itself? docrine damaging properties. Following a 10,000-year Marguerite Jill Dye is an artist and writer who divides period of physical and biological stability, the earth was her time between the Green Mountains of Vermont and becoming destabilized by the damage of fossil fuels and Florida’s Gulf Coast.

When I read not too long ago that Mount Saint Joseph Academy (MSJ) and Rutland High School (RHS) played a basketball game it reminded me of the rivalry between the two schools during my high school days. Even though they are in different divisions, today the competition between the two teams is truly enjoyed by local by mary eellen fans. shaw I was a student at MSJ in the 60s so my memories can only reflect that side of the rivalry when it comes to looking back. But I have a feeling that things were very similar on the other side of town! Some of the senior citizens sitting in the bleachers at the recent game could very well have been watching their grandchildren play. That experience most likely evoked memories of their own days on a high school basketball court. As I browsed through my yearbook I was surprised to read under some of the girls’ pictures that they were on the basketball team. I don’t remember that there was a girls’ team and our yearbook has no pictures to remind me. However, there are photos of the boys’ varsity and junior varsity teams as well as several shots of them in action. It made me realize how irrelevant girls’ sports were in that era. Times have certainly changed for the better. The importance of sports for both genders has been recognized. Back “in the day” the boys’ basketball team wore relatively short and slim basketball shorts compared to the longer type that was popular in the 80s and 90s. The tops could best be described as “tank tops,” much like the undershirts with the skinny shoulder straps that my father used to wear. The shorts and tops were white and there was a band of green trim on each to reflect our school colors of green and white. As the boys were shooting hoops the varsity cheerleaders were inciting the fans with their cheers. They wore white pullover sweaters with a large green “M” and green skirts. They had a narrow white angora headband and matching trim on the bottom of their skirts. Of course, the length of the skirts was definitely respectable, as our principal was a priest and the faculty was mainly nuns. There were also JV cheerleaders who led cheers at that level. They wore green jumper type uniforms with white blouses. School spirit prevailed for sure! The bleachers were full of students with a portion of the front row full of nuns. They stood out with their black habits and veils. I remember some of them really got into the games with their cheers. The size of my class at MSJ was larger than the total school population today. But the good news is that the student body is growing and the school spirit is just as strong as it was in yesteryear. A newspaper article about the recent game mentioned that MSJ had 10 players in the roster. In checking my MSJ yearbook for 1962 I found 12 varsity and 16 JV basketball players. Sports were a huge part of the school. While basketball games were exciting, the football games between these two schools had even more excitement. There were pep rallies, complete with bonfires, on Friday night. The MSJ students usually met at the school and walked together over to St. Peter Field. The cheerleaders did their part to raise high our school spirit. There were snake dances through the downtown area after the pep rallies. Hands were joined as we snaked our way through the busy downtown streets crowded with shoppers. Stores were open on Friday nights and we had quite the audience as we made our way along. A friend told me about her memory of guests in the Berwick Hotel hanging out the windows watching as the students went by. During the football games you heard cheers such as: “All the way with MSJ” and “Smash ‘em, bust ‘em that’s our custom!” After the rival MSJ-RHS football game, I remember a parade through town. A drum majorette and six majorettes led the way with close to 40 band members right behind them. No matter where you went to school there were probably two teams that were distinctive rivals. Looking back at the memories of those games will always be special.

Looking Back

28 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

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The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 29

Altitude Sickness:

Brady’s awesome week

continued from page 26 than four hours a day for the whole week, or if it was because the snow was deep, windblown, and would suck the tips of your skis under if you let it. Obviously on Telemark skis, balance is a huge issue, and the snow was in between something that was comfortable in an Alpine turn and in a Telly turn. I was exhausted by the end of my first run on Pico, which was amazing, but also incredibly, I skied out in three runs! I took a few runs at Pico, hiking up to the top of the Outlaw chair to get freshies (beautiful freshies). I then shot over to Bear Mountain and caught the remainder of my legs over there. The woods on Bear were just phenomenal, but the high moisture content in the air

Special ed:

and low moisture content in the snow meant that everywhere that was skied quickly turned from fluff to crud and was really hard to ski. So I called it a very successful week, and went home and took a nap. Something else happened on Monday that is probably the most important event of my adult life, and certainly something that I have worked and striven toward for the last four years. I got news that caused me to sit in my car on the side of the road with tears in my eyes (happy tears, of course), and call my mother. I will have more on that in a couple of weeks, both because things are developing, and because I will be writing about skiing for at least the next week or so!

Students could be better served for a lower cost

continued from page 5 lower cost. “Right now, [in Vermont] the way individual education plans and the way services are currently provided it takes every dollar being spent to do that,” Levenson said. Both studies found Vermont is failing to catch problems early enough, and that changes could be made to catch struggling students sooner, before they get to the point of needing special education. The practice now is to send struggling students straight to special education, where they are taught by specialist educators and paraeducators. If the student presents a behavioral challenge, then the school relies even more heavily on paraprofessionals, Levenson said. “The [paraeducator] model is expensive, and has not served your students well,” Levenson said. Among the recommendations of Levenson’s group is for schools to focus on improving the quality of general education, especially early literacy, including hiring teachers specially trained to work with struggling students, so that special education is not the only place where they can go for help. But one of the many problems of the current system is a lack of flexibility in how to pay for the extra help. For example, if there are four students in a class with similar reading problems, but two have been identified as requiring special education, and two have not, services for the four students cannot be combined. So the tendency in schools is to group all struggling students under special education, because it is the only way to get funding for the extra attention needed. UVM’s Kolbe said misidentification is not “rampant,” but it is a potential downside of the current reimbursement system. “This report is not about slamming special education,” she said. “We were asked to evaluate what a different funding formula would look like and we were told what to look at.” The formula Kolbe said they were asked to study was census-based. Kolbe said their finding was that such a formula “may be better aligned with Vermont’s policy priorities. But the bottom line is: there is no perfect funding formula.” The District Management Group presented lawmakers with a number of suggestions for how to better serve special education students for less, while also improving overall student achievement, easing the workload

of school staff and helping districts better manage costs. The group studied educational practices in 10 Vermont supervisory unions, and found that nearly 40 percent of all elementary students are struggling to read, and their teachers feel “ill-equipped” to help them. The group found that classroom teachers rely too heavily on paraprofessionals, many of whom lack the teaching background and/or experience needed to be effective. Testifying to the Legislature earlier in January, Levenson said improvements to general educational instruction at the elementary school level would improve outcomes overall. Students who are not reading at grade level by third grade have a hard time catching up, and later perform poorly in all subjects. The emphasis needs to be on helping struggling students before they need interven-

“THE FINANCIAL CHANGES ARE ONLY POSSIBLE IF YOU CHANGE THE WAY YOU SERVE KIDS,” HE SAID, ADDING IT WOULD TAKE THREE TO FOUR YEARS OF HIGH LEVEL EFFORT TO CHANGE EDUCATIONAL PRACTICES. tion at the level of special education, Levenson said. Levenson’s group also examined how students receive special education once they need it. Too often, they found, students are taken out of their regular class for help with their specific learning problems. They end up missing out on vital instruction in core subjects. Elementary school aged students, who are frequently taken out of class for reading support, feel the effects the most. Levenson said schools should provide additional instruction time every day for struggling students. The authors of the DMG report were critical of the wide use of paraprofessionals, and stressed the need for “highly skilled teachers,” especially for those students with the greatest needs. The report also referred to the growing need for experts in behavioral management, as more and more students come to school suffering from trauma, and with social and emotional challenges. The DMG report said its recommended changes should be “cost

neutral or cost less than current practices.” The recommendations would require an investment in professional development and in staffing. Karen Edwards, who directs the Agency of Education’s Integrated Support for Learning Division, said such complex changes will require careful coordination of core instruction, intervention and intensive supports for academics and behavior. Special education block grants The UVM study focused on a proposal for changing the funding of special needs education with the implementation of a census block grant, which would provide funding for every student in the school district, not just special education. It would allow districts more flexibility in meeting student needs by providing funding for extra help for struggling learners before they need an IEP. Students with extraordinary needs would receive additional funding. The UVM study showed that within five years of implementing the census block grant program the state could save up to $83 million, in 2016 dollars. But Nicole Mace, executive director of the Vt. School Boards Association, cautioned that local districts could end up having to make up the difference. School districts are required by law to provide the services called for in an IEP, she said. The state now funds 60 percent of the cost to a local school district of providing specialized educational services to students on an IEP. Students with greater needs can cost a school district more than $50,000 a year, 90 percent of which is reimbursed by the state. “A move to a census-based model that decreased the special education allocation without a commensurate decrease in the need for services would push special education costs into local education spending,” Mace said, adding it could mean a dramatic increase in local tax rates due to increased per pupil spending. Kolbe said the census block grant is not necessarily the best way forward and not the only way. “There are lots of ways to fund special education, all the states have different models and none of them are perfect. They all have strengths and weaknesses. “The challenge is finding a funding system that works with Vermont’s policy priorities right now: support for early intervention and support in a general education setting to the greatest extent possible.”

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• The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018 5-31,30 2017

RENTALS DEMOS TUNING

By Robin Alberti

Welcome to Lift Lines, a weekly column where local and visiting skiers and riders share their thoughts on Killington, skiing and riding, and the winter lifestyle.

“When we get feet of snow, what is your go-to run at Killington? Do you prefer powder or corduroy?”

#1 42 years

3429 Rt. 4, Killington at the Time & Temperature Sign 802-422-3739 • www.aspeneast.com

TRAIL OFTraudi THE Coli WEEK:

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KILLINGTON’S ULTIMATE RENTAL AND DEMO CENTER

802-422-4281

New Hampshire

NAME

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- Rob Curtin

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 31

REAL ESTATE LOVELY RESTORED circa 19th century farmhouse / great country in / bed and breakfast /ski home 6 bedrooms each with tiled baths, large kitchen with tiled floor, commercial gas range w/hood, large living room, large dinning room, sun room, all thermal replacement windows, re-finished wood floor throughout, recent oil boiler w/ baseboard radiation, restored slate and metal roofs, two drilled wells, spring, large barn w/ rental apartment, other barns out buildings, 8 acres, just off Rt. 4, Hampton, New York, Beautiful westerly views of Adirondacks, minutes from VT border, 30 miles from Killington, call anytime for additional info 802-236-3949. NEW LISTING: Killington ski village location, mountain v i e w. P i n n a c l e 1 b d r m condo, $116K. Furnished, never rented, deck, stone fireplace, kitchen upgrade, ski locker, health club, shuttle to mountain. Owner, waynekay@ gmail.com, 802-775-5111. STRONG R E N TA L I N V E S T M E N T O P P O R T U N I T Y ! K I L L I N G TO N G AT E WAY CONDOS! Penthouse newly renovated two level, 2 bed/2 bath. Hardwood flooring throughout, wood burning fireplace in dining/living area, updated kitchen, two separate balconies w/views, sold furnished! $114,500. Also available, 1 Bedroom w/ Den + full bath newly updated. $79K priced to sell! Gateway Owners enjoy a great owner’s lounge/game room, private ski lockers, tennis courts, and a beautiful in-ground pool in the summer months! 2 miles to Pico Ski Resort, minutes to downtown Rutland & super close to the World Class Killington year round Resort. For more info or to schedule a showing call Tucker Lange, Sales Associate & Realtor, Peak Property Real Estate. Mobile 303-818-8068 or Killington Office 802-7751700. KILLINGTON—2 BDRM 1.5 bath condo, Mountain Green bldg. 2. FP, ski lockers, health club membership. $92K. Owner, 800-576-5696. MENDON LAND: 267 acres of secluded yet close to Killington and Rutland with outstanding mountain views of Pico and Blue Ridge Mountains. This land is bordered on the uphill side by the Rutland City watershed. There are thousands of sugar maples and a variety of hard and softwoods. There are two ways to access the land, one by truck from Rt 4 and by car through a gated right of way. Info, LouiseHarrison.com or call 802-747-8444. PITTSFIELD LAND: River View Trail Road: 4AC for $49,900 with State septic permit for a 4BR, 6 person home. Nice level building lot (B #1). Ski Country Real Estate, 335 Killington Rd, 802-7755111. PITTSFIELD LAND: River View Trail Road: 8AC for $69,900 with State septic permit for a 4BR home. Lot 5. Private Location. Ski Country Real Estate, 335 Killington Rd, 802-775-5111.

LAND FOR SALE: Improved building lot in Killington neighborhood with ski home benefits. Views. Call 802-4229500. ERA MOUNTAIN Real Estate, 1913 US Rt. 4, Killington— killingtonvermontrealestate. com or call one of our real estate experts for all of your real estate needs including Short Term & Long Term Rentals & Sales. 802-7750340. KILLINGTON PICO REALTY Our Realtors have special training in buyer representation to ensure a positive buying experience. Looking to sell? Our unique marketing plan features your very own website. 802-4223600, KillingtonPicoRealty. com 2814 Killington Rd., Killington. (next to Choices Restaurant). KILLINGTON VALLEY Real Estate PO Box 236, 2281 Killington Rd., Killington. 802422-3610 or 1-800-833-KVRE. Email: kvre@vermontel.net LOUISE HARRISON REAL ESTATE: An independent broker offering professional guidance and representation to buyers and sellers in the greater Killington, Mendon, Rutland area. 30 years experience. Available by appointment 7 days a week at the location of your choice. 8 Mountain Top Rd, Chittenden. LouiseHarrison.com, 802747-8444. PEAK PROPERTY Real Estate, 1995 US Route 4, Killington. VTproperties. net. 802-775-1700, 802353-1604. Marni@ peakpropertyrealestate.com. Specializing in homes/condos/ land/commercial/investments/ winter rentals. Representing sellers & buyers all over Central Vt. THE PERFORMANCE GROUP real estate 1810 Killington Rd., Killington. 802422-3244 or 800-338-3735, vthomes.com, email info@ vthomes.com. As the name implies “WE PERFORM FOR YOU!” PRESTIGE REAL Estate of Killington, 2922 Killington Rd., Killington. Specializing in the listing & sales of Killington Condos, Homes, & Land. Call toll free 800398-3680 or locally 802-4223923. prestigekillington.com. SKI COUNTRY Real Estate, 335 Killington Rd., Killington. 8 0 2 - 7 7 5 - 5 111 , 8 0 0 - 8 7 7 5111. SkiCountryRealEstate. com - 8 agents to service: K i l l i n g t o n , B r i d g e w a t e r, Mendon, Pittsfield, Plymouth, Rochester, Stockbridge & Woodstock areas. Sales & Winter Seasonal Rentals. Open 7 days/wk, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES C O M M E R C I A L S PA C E AVAILABLE with another well established business. Small or large square footage. Close to ski shop, restaurant and lodging. Great location for any business. Call 802-345-5867.

K I L L I N G TO N M A L L f o r sale, 4-apartments, 2-stores, 1-nightclub/restaurant, 1-50s diner restaurant. 4 acres plus building. Call office 800-6942250 or cell 914-217-4390. Ron Viccari.

RENTALS LOOKING TO RENT: 2/1 or 2/2 furnished condo, from May 1 to October 1. Call Steve: 561-252-5036. WA N T E D : Wa n t e d 2 - 3 bedroom condo/small house to rent for the remainder of the season. Mike- 917-224-3623. APARTMENTS for rent: 1, 2 BR units available. Nonsmokers only. $750/$850, all included. 15 min. to Downtown. Mendon. 802770-8786. WINTERGREEN 1 bedroom Condo in Pittsfield. Woodstove and firewood included. No pets. $775 a month. Call 802779-2712 or 802 345-4377. AMAZING MOUNTAIN VIEWS & CLOSE TO KILLINGTON SKYESHIP! Newly renovated 2 bedroom/1 bath lower unit! Winter seasonal rental! Available now! Sleeps 4. No pets or smoking. Call Marni Rieger 802-353-1604. PITTSFIELD SEASONAL rental: 5 BR, fully furnished, new renovation, on VAST trails, minutes to skiing. $17,000 for season. Call Roger 802-345-5622. K I L L I N G T O N R O YA L FLUSH Rentals/Property management. Specializing in condos/winter & summer rentals. Andrea Weymouth, Owner. www. killingtonroyalflush.com, 802746-4040. PICO 1BR with lift views available for remainder of season or year round. Views of lift, balcony, wood burn fireplace, private ski locker, cable and heat included. $1150 per month. LouiseHarrison. com, 802-747-8444.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate and rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, family status, national origin, sexual orientation, or persons receiving public assistance, or an intention to make such preferences, limitation or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. If you feel you’ve been discrimination against, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-6699777.

FOR SALE COFFEE, fresh roasted beans, $10/lb. Green beans also available. Killington Motel, next to Killington Post Office. 802-773-9535. 2009 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5X PZEV 5 spd manual, AWD, maroon. 160K miles. $5,000 OBO. Call or text 802282-2585. 2004 CHRYSLER PT Cruiser — Runs well. Winter & Summer tires. Some rust. 80K miles $1,400 or best offer. Call 802-236-9593. HONDA EU6500is Inverter Generator. Rated 5.5KW. Used only 35 hours. New cost $4,000 selling for $2700 o.b.o. 802-775-0085. Pick up in Rutland. SET OF 4 Winterforce studded snow tires, 195/60R15. No faults, bought Oct. 13 for my 2014 Fiesta, drove 200 miles on them, then traded in the car. An excellent tire, had Winterforce previously. Cost $500 new, asking $350 o.b.o. Need to sell! Please call Julia at 802-483-2020, Rutland Town. FIREWOOD for sale, we stack. Rudi, 802-672-3719.

G O L D C O A S T HOUSECLEANING, LLC. has openings for residential, condo and rentals. Fully insured. Featuring essential oils and plant-based cleaning products; but will accommodate specific requests. Serving Quechee, Woodstock, Pomfret, Plymouth, and west of Killington Mountain. Contact Sarah Kaminski for consultation: goldcoasthouse cleaningvermont@gmail.com. SNOW REMOVAL: Roofs, walkways, etc. Professional Property Maintenance, 802558-6172. BEAUREGARD PAINTING, 25 years experience. 802436-1337.

WANTED STILL BUYING and appraising coins, stamps, precious metals, watches, art and historical items. I have moved from VT, but can easily help new and existing clients through email and US Postal Service. Member ANA, APS, NAWCC and New England Appraisers Association. Royal Barnard 802-775-0085 or email rbarn64850@aol.com.

EMPLOYMENT BARTENDER NEEDED, no experience necessary. PT Evenings 3pm9pm for Pinnacle Spa Bar in Killington. $12/hr+tips. If interested email mullinsmrn@ hotmail.com or call 802-2995012 for details. PART-TIME HOUSEKEEPER for well-respected Killington inn to start immediately. 15-20 hours per week. Flexible scheduling possible. Experience preferred, but will train. Reliable transportation necessary. Call 802-4223407. WA I T S TA F F n e e d e d a t Drewski’s. Please call 802422-3816 or stop in for an application. SNOWMOBILE VERMONT is now taking applications for inside and outside positions. Weekend and holidays are a must and computer skills are a plus. Call 802-422-2121. PHAT ITALIAN - All positionsall Shifts. Cook, deli, cashier. Please call to inquire or apply in person: 2384 Killington Road, Killington; 802-4223636.

Classifieds, page 32

FREE FREE REMOVAL of scrap metal & car batteries. Matty, 802-353-5617.

SERVICES COME COOK with Chef Ted of the former Hemingway’s Restaurant! Now offering: All about you cooking classes; food prep.consult — your site or ours; private food tastings; wild edible or wellness forages and more! Call now 802342-1513 to discuss your wishes. www.facebook.com/ VermontFoodOdyssey/

www.LouiseHarrison.com

Realtor / Independent Broker since 1998 Kripalu YOGA Teacher since 1995

Louise Harrison Real Estate & YOGA

Attention Buyers and Sellers: Private & Group YOGA Classes: Buyer Representation Restorative Wed 5:30 Killington Yoga Listings Welcome Private Classes Available by Appt. PICO 3 BR Wkly/Weekend Rentals Seasonal & Yearly Rentals 802-775-9999 | 8 Mountain Top Rd. | Louise@LouiseHarrison.com | 808-747-8444

Harvey’s Plumbing and Excavating LLC HELP WANTED Harvey’s Plumbing and Excavating is an earth and mechanical contractor located in Rochester, VT.

Full time year around heavy equipment operator to start in mid March. Applicant needs: Experience operating a variety of equipment Clean driving record Knowledge of equipment maintenance Ability to read site plans Work as a team member Dependable transportation to shop

CDL Class A driver’s license preferred. Compensation depends on experience.

E-mail resume to harveype@sover.net

Call 802-767-3241 or 767-3318

32 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

Classifieds:

The “Oil Can” Committee

continued from page 32 ON THE ROCS - All positions. Chef-prep cookbartenders-servers. Please call to inquire or apply in person: 2384 Killington Road, Killington; 802-422-3636. PASTA POT is looking for energetic staff to join our team. Positions include wait staff, pizza/prep cook & dishwasher. Apply in person at Pasta Pot on Route 4, Killington (Thurs.Sun., 5-10 p.m.) or call 802422-3004. INN AT LONG TRAIL seeking experienced cook/prep cook. Pay commensurate with experience. Email (ilt@ innatlongtrail.com) resume or brief work history, or call 802-775-7181 to set up interview appointment. Will train competent and motivated individual. Weekends and holidays a must.

CASEY’S CABOOSE is looking for some great people to help us continue to rebuild Killington’s most loved restaurant. Immediate help, and fall and ski seasons. All positions considered. Part time positions available, too. Email resume and cover letter to john@caseyscaboose. com, or stop by and introduce yourself. MOGULS SEEKING: Line cooks, wait staff; full time and part time work available. 802422-4777. Apply daily, open 7 days.

182 Woodstock Ave Rutland VT

LINE COOK Needed at P r e s t o n ’s R e s t a u r a n t a t Killington/Pico Ski Resort. Prepare and produce a wide variety of menu items, perform a variety of complex cooking tasks, meal service and proper plating of all meals. Full timeseasonal. Apply online at www.killington.com/jobs or in person at Killington Human Resources. 4763 Killington Rd. Killington, VT 05751. 800300-9095. EOE. PASSIONATE about fresh food: FT DELI POSITION: 40 hours/wk. Excellent pay. Nights 12-8 p.m. Food service experience preferred. SEASONAL PT DELI: 32 +hours/wk. Weekends. Bridgewater Corners Country Store, 5680 US ROUTE 4. Call or text resume to attention Wendy 802-299-1717.

James Watson

James Pell

Owner/ Broker Realtor jim_watson@cbwatson.net

Associate Broker jim_pell@cbwatson.net

www.cbwatsonrealty.com

PERFECT ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED RUTLAND CITY HOME – $320,000

Picture perfect architecturally designed Rutland City home with functional well proportioned rooms. The eat-in kitchen, formal dining room and large living room with fireplace are connected by a butler’s pantry and are ideal for entertaining. The cozy den/office w/ fireplace (back-to-back fireplaces in den/living room) and covered sunset porch offer exceptional relaxation space. Three bedrooms and 2-1/2 baths. Full usable basement. Detached oversize 3 car garage w/full loft for storage. Detached Four Season heated sunroom is a fabulous space to relax. This property must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

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LAKEWOOD DRIVE 4Br, 2 BA Well cared for and upgraded home, less than a mile from the Killington Road. Beautiful hardwood floors and trim, new hot tub and landscaping out back, back-up generator and 2-car attached garage. Walking distance to Killington’s new mtn bike trails and Kent pond. EXCLUSIVE………………….$498,000

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KILLINGTON CONTEMPORARY This immaculate 3-BR 2-BA home is located midway between Bear Mt. and Killington Base. Light & bright living area with cathedral ceilings and long-range views. Full dry basement, fully furnished. EXCLUSIVE ............................... $460,000

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By Rep. Jim Harrison, R-Bridgewater, Chittenden, Killington & Mendon

When the new session began on Jan. 3, I was reassigned to the House Government Operations Committee, one of 14 House committees that meets on a daily basis to delve into various proposals and bills. What does Government Operations do, you may ask? As Deputy Secretary of State Chris Winters put it, the committee’s work can be viewed as the “oil can” of how government works. The committee looks at what might be considered by some, as less than exciting, with an eye towards how we can make government work better for the citizens of Vermont. Some of those “less exciting” issues we are currently working on include: Administrative Procedures Act This is the law that governs how various state agencies write regulations. It has been many years since the Act has been reviewed for improvement to process and transparency. The committee is looking at a recommendation from the Secretary of State’s office to move all of the state rules to one website online to make it easier for anyone to search for applicable regulations, whether it’s related to plumbers or clean air. Additionally, the current process for adopting rules is heavy on paper. Do members of the legislative committee and others that review the rules all need paper copies when they are easily available electronically. I think not. Office of Professional Regulation Each year the OPR office brings a proposal to update a number of the licensing it regulates from barbers to engineers and the qualifications for the various professions. This year’s bill got a little more controversial with a recommended change to the licensing of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) as is done in about 12 other states. A number of physicians do not agree with the change, putting members of the committee in the unenviable position of trying to navigate what is best in terms of competition and safe medicine. Open Meetings & Public Records Our committee has spent time trying to make clarifications as to what constitutes an open meeting as well as make it easier for members of the public to access public records. This law applies to both state and local government. The initial proposal would have made it harder for local government to comply with the meetings portion of the law through a new provision on serial conversations. Additionally, the Secretary of State’s Office proposed a new independent Ombudsman position to be the arbitrator of all public records requests, state and local. I think the committee soon realized that this could lead to a significant resource and staffing issue and it is not likely to be included in the final bill. Statewide Voter Checklist H.624 was introduced to deny future access to the federal government of Vermont’s voter checklist. The issue was introduced because of the President’s special election integrity commission set up last year to compare voter checklists for purposes of determining election fraud. The commission didn’t complete its objective and has since been disbanded. Vermont never shared its data although state law didn’t prohibit access to the federal government at the time. I share the concern about using our checklist for potentially politically motivated outcomes, but we must ask ourselves where we do draw the line. If H.624 passes, every other state, political parties and individuals can still ask and receive our statewide voter checklist (minus personal identifiable information). Even foreign governments will be able to access the information. So if H.624 passes, presumably Russia can ask and receive this information, but not our own federal government. Does this make sense? You may reach me at JHarrison@leg.state.vt.us or my cell. 802-236-3001.

Dairy summit:

Environmental awareness in agriculture

continued from page 1 The Summit provided a comprehensive look at energy efficiency, wastewater, cleaning/sanitation, and pollution prevention, and bring together experts, organizations, and other resources to help dairy processors flourish economically and environmentally. “No industry better exemplifies the importance of getting environment, agriculture, and economy right than the dairy industry, which accounts for 7 percent of the Vermont economy. Building on the continued effort of the industry, we will see even greater results,” said Anson Tebbetts, secretary of the Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (AAFM). Value-added dairy products like cheese and yogurt are a growing sector in Vermont. Many new manufacturers are emerging, and many farmers are exploring value-added products as a source of additional revenue to help maintain the viability of family farms. “As dairy products businesses start and grow, they face many questions about how to reduce their environmental impact through best practices and compliance,” said Tom Bivins, executive director of the Vermont Cheese Council. The Summit is one example of how Vermont’s state agencies are reaching out to help food manufacturers. It is part of a growing partnership between the

Agency of Natural Resources and AAFM that reflects the interdependence of agricultural, environmental, and economic prosperity, and the importance of environmentally sustainable operations that strengthen the Vermont brand. Processors in nearby states were invited to the Summit, too. “Vermont is a nationally-recognized agricultural and environmental leader; other parts of the northeast want to learn how to foster a dairy products sector that reflects the values of environmental sustainability, local food, and vibrant economies,” said Terri Goldberg, executive director of the Northeast Waste Management Officials’ Association (NEWMOA), which co-hosted the Summit. “We are collaborating with Vermont on the Summit to support our sustainability and pollution prevention mission and to better leverage expertise across the region.” The Summit is just a starting point. Through its Environmental Assistance Office, the Department of Environmental Conservation will continue to help dairy products manufacturers understand regulatory requirements and improve practices, through site visits, online workshops, and other outreach. For more information visit www. eaovt.org.

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 33

Mendon – desirable Blue Ridge at Cortina community. Potential for impressive views of Pico Mountain and includes sewer rights (one ERU) in the Alpine Pipeline, sufficient for a three-bedroom residence. Architectural review and covenants apply. Well-priced and attractive lots in the renowned Barstow School District, convenient to Killington, Pico and Rutland. Lot 5 – 2+ acre building lot - $59,000 Lot 7 - 2.86 acre building lot - $69,000 Stockbridge - Cleared level building lot with dramatic views of Little Vulture Mountain. No covenants, so you can build to suit. Located on private road, easy access to lot, w/ 3BR State septic permit. Great location, just minutes to I-89, Killington, Vermont Law School. Arnold Mountain Road – 1+ acres - $25,000

VERMONT’S LARGEST PRISTINE LAKE Custom built luxury year round home with an incredible connection to the water. Great frontage, docks, decks, fire pit. Adorable Guest house too. Private. $1,390,000 | CASTLETON, VT | MLS#4644546 www.391FalconLoopEast.com

www.278WestHillRoad.com

Rochester -Exceptional 3BR/3BA Great Hawk home, improvements and upgrades too numerous to list - $299,000

Killington – Upper level unit, lower level unit, classic chalet - $199,000

Contact Freddie Ann Bohlig, Realtor for more information! 802.353.1804 | FreddieAnn.Bohlig@FourSeasonsSIR.com 85 North Main Street | Rutland, VT 05701 | FourSeasonsSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

www.141GreatHawkRoad.com Rochester – Stunning great room w/cathedral ceilings in this 2BR/2BA Great Hawk home $234,900

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

www.NorthsideA4.com Killington – Directly across the street from Pico Resort, 2BR/2BA condo - $124,500

Nathan Astroeni MBA - Realtor

0 000.0 $550,

Rutland - 177 Woodstock Ave US Route 4 Unique Automotive Service or Business Opportunity on US Route 4 with a 34’ x 110’ Steel Building on .98 acre lot completely equipped for automotive service business. The interior space offers an Office Mezzanine, customer waiting area, storage space, employee break room and public restroom. Building and Land offered with no inventory for $475,000.00 MLS#4669204

www.TheHeightsAtKillington.com Prestigious townhouse/condominium development project for sale. Phase 1 of this exceptional development is complete with all four townhouse units sold. A 12-acre parcel with frontage on the Killington Road; permits and infrastructure in place for five more buildings, comprising 20 additional high-end townhouse units. Sale includes 22 ERU’s (Equivalent Residential Units/sewer rights), real estate, name and development rights. Alternative investment options will be considered. Offered at $695,000

Kyle Kershner Broker/Owner

Jessica Posch Realtor

2814 Killington Rd., Killington, VT 802-422-3600 • KillingtonPicoRealty.com info@KillingtonPicoRealty.com REALTOR

mountaintimes.info mes.info

Alison McCullough Broker

BE SEEN.

MOUNTA IN TIMESS

0 000.0 $195,

Betty Ann Martin Realtor

Diana L. Harvey Realtor

Plymouth - 11 Blueberry Ledge Ridge Unit 4 Fabulous end unit Townhouse at The Ledges at Hawk Resort!! Conveniently located between Killington and Okemo for the Winter enthusiasts but beautiful in all four seasons! Access to Lake Amherst as well as Community amenities to include indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, hiking trails. MLS#4669921

◆ Because nice matters ◆ Alison McCullough Real Estate 29 Center Street, Suite 1 Downtown Rutland, VT

alisonsrealestate@gmail.com Office: 802.747.4531 Cell: 802.747.8822

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VTPROPERTIES.NET

IDEAL PROPERTIES CLOSE TO KILLINGTON, OKEMO OR WOODSTOCK!

802.775.1700

a 4H horse farm. The property has a 2 bed/2 bath Log home w/garage, an indoor riding arena, 2 barns, 28 horse stalls, 5 meadows, amazing views & more! $475,000

STRONG INVESTMENT - “THE WEDGE” PRIME SPOT-2 MILES TO THE KILLINGTON SKYSHIP & 1 MILE TO WOODARD RESERVOIR! One owner, first time offered on market, RARE 4 UNIT PROPERTY. WS rental income is $27K. $349,000.

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY! 3 UNITS! Easy Plymouth location w/frontage on the Black River. Main house split into 2 units w/one car garage (one side is 2 bed/1 bath newly updated & the other is 1 bed/1 bath). There is also 2 bed/ 2 bath well taken care of mobile home w/detached garage. Live in one of the units & rent out the other two! Great rental potential! $279,500

UNDER 5 MILES TO OKEMO/JACKSON GORE! Newly updated 3 bed/2 bath farmhouse is a fabulous investment for a primary home or vacation retreat minutes to world class skiing, golf, lakes, fishing & hiking! 2 car garage w/woodshed, new detached barn & more. $189,900

SNOWMOBILER’S PARADISE! PRIME SPOT ACROSS THE STREET FROM KILLINGTON SNOWMOBILE TOURS! Direct access to VAST trails! Hot tub & sauna. Close to Killington or Okemo! 3bed/ 3.5 bath $183,500

PRIME OKEMO/JACKSON GORE LOCATION-RARE OPPORTUNITY! AWESOME VIEWS! 5 Bed/2 bath Antique home w/attached barn all ready for renovation! RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL ZONING. $159K

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY-EQUESTRIAN’S DREAM! PRIME SPOT! Minutes to Pico, Killington & downtown Rutland. Formally

HOMES | CONDOS | LAND | COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT | RENTALS

Marni Rieger 802.353.1604

Rick Gaspar 802.342.0693

Tucker A. Lange Heidi Matusik 303.818.8068 860.637.1243

Info@PeakPropertyRealEstate.com 1995 U.S Route 4, Killington VT

34 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

Fox Creek Inn, 49 Dam Road

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Chittenden, VT | $645,900

Nestled in a private valley on a creek with 2.5 acres, the Inn is 15 minutes from Killington and Pico, surrounded by the Green Mountain National Forest, provides guests with an idyllic, upscale experience no matter what the season. This special property includes: 8 graciously appointed Guest Rooms with Fireplaces and private Baths, a cozy Pub, Commercial Kitchen with walk-in Pantry, Breakfast and Dining Room seating 25, all Business, Furnishings, and Land. Luxurious, spacious 6 Bedroom, 5 Bath Owner’s Home available separately - details provided upon request. An easy drive to Woodstock, Rutland, Middlebury.

PRIME INCOME PROPERTY, KILLINGON RD 8 Tenants • Just 1 mile from Ski Lifts 22,000 sq. ft. of finished area 4+ acres with ample parking • Appraised at $1.6 million

Christine Fraioli & John K. Nelson

ASKING just $1,300,000

Each office is independently owned & operated. 66 Court Street, Middlebury, VT 05753 | 802-989-5064 or 802-385-1113 | www.FourSeasonsSothebysSIR.com

FOR SALE

2. KILLINGTON RESTAURANT w/ Large Upstairs Apartment, ample parking on 2.7 acres......................................................$ 195,000 3. UPSCALE RESTAURANT KILLINGTON REGION: Fully Equipped & Furnished, real estate included....................... $295,000 4. KILLINGTON RESTAURANT / Great Visibility on US 4, ample on-site parking, includes real estate ................... $295,000 5. RETAIL/OFFICE BLDG ADJACENT HOSPITAL: Former Pharmacy in great location! Bldg needs work ........................... $150,000 6. PROFITABLE DESIGN & FURNISHINGS BUSINESS: Confidential, $250K cash down ........................................... $950,000 7. PROFITABLE FLORIST SHOP: Confidentail, well established, seller willing to train new owner .........................................................$567,000 8. BEAUTIFUL RETAIL/OFFICE BLDG w/ State of the Art Heating System; warm modern interior ...................................$395,000 SOLD 9. ATTRACTIVE 14-ROOM LODGE W/ RESTAURANT: Splendid view of ski slopes...................................................... $595,000 10. - 12. MEDICAL OFFICE CONDOS- 1,500 to 5,500 SF: NEAR HOSPITAL ..................................................... Priced from $120,000 SOLD 13. BRICK DOWNTOWN RETAIL/OFFICE BLDG: Adjacent Parking Garage & Transit Ctr .............................................. $259,000 14. DOWNTOWN 29,000 SF OFFICE BLDG w/ Bank drive-in, Adjacent Parking Garage & Transit Ctr. ....................... $895,000 15. 12,000 SF FORMER OMYA LAB BLDG: Adjacent fire station & Town Hall ............................................. Sacrifice Sale: $170,000 16. 1,200 SF OFFICE CONDO: 6-RM Professional office, beautiful setting, ample on-site parking.................................. $90,000 17.ONE-ROOM OFFICE CONDO INCOME PROPERTY: Rented, but user could occupy after lease expires .................. $9,000

FORESTLAND - Experience the Value

FOR LEASE

18. 3,000 Sq. Ft. OFFICE SPACE: Center of downtown, adjacent Parking Garage & Transit Center ................... $6.00/SF, NNN 19. 1,500 Sq. Ft. PROFESSTIONAL OFFICE SPACE: Downtown, ample parking nearby ................................... $7.50/SF, NNN 20. 1,250 to 2,250 SF RETAIL /OFFICE SPACE: On US 7, great visibility with on-site parking ............................ $7.50/SF, NNN

PLUS: Over 30 More Office, Retail and Industrial Spaces For Lease

Ph: 802.773.0600

Ault Commercial Realty, Inc.

TIMBER + RETREAT

MULTIPLE USES

NEAR ICONIC MTN

STREAM FRONTAGE

Locust Hill Forest 592 Acres in Johnsburg

Brick Church Forest 199 Acres in Malone

Pokeomoonshine Forest 326 Acres in Lewis

Pleasant Brook Forest 718 Acres in Brandon

This property offers exceptionally-managed timber and many recreational opportunities. Very high maple and oak stocking, productive growing sites, extensive, groomed ATV trails, and an established yurt camp with backcountry utilities and a sugarhouse.

This pine forest has been meticulously managed for 35 years offering a stewardship legacy for the next owner. The property is 80% red and white pine plantations. There is a simple summer cabin for immediate retreats with the option to build something for year-round enjoyment.

Property is equally wellsuited as a recreational opportunity or timber investment with long frontage on Route 9, proximity to I-87, a solid, gravel road through the property and a developing white pine and red oak timber resource. Camp development options as well.

Highlights of this northern property include over a mile of frontage on Pleasant Brook, a rustic camp, miles of internal trails, and a maple and birch dominated forest. Many opportunities.

$599,000

$129,000

$239,000

$369,000

Fountains Land Inc - Todd Waldron, Licensed New York Broker - (518) 668-5880

Fountainsland.com - explore our website for details on all our land listings from Maine to Florida

P.O. Box 6306, Rutland, VT 05702

Ray@AultCommercial.com • Web:www.aultcommercial.com

G. RAY AULT, REALTOR

SkiCountryRealEstate.com • 802.775.5111

Serving Killington, Pittsfield, Stockbridge, Mendon, Chittenden, Bridgewater & Plymouth TRAILSIDE LOCATION! SKI FROM YOUR DOOR!

MINUTES TO THE SLOPES

Spacious home w/ 6 Bedrms & 4 baths. A Spectacular kitchen any cook would love! 3 levels of living area, one w/ wet bar & wd.frpl. Room for everyone and everything! Master bedrm. w/ it’s own deck & master ba. $695,000

Spacious 4 bedrm.3 Baths Great rm. w/ kit, dn. Area & lv.area. A second lg. lv. Area plus a rec rm. 3 living areas & ski access from your door Long range Mtn views, deck Sauna, Hot tub $555,000

SHUTTLE TO & FROM

SKI IN SHUTTLE OUT

MTN GREEN #1,2&3

HOME NEAR REC. CTR.

EDGEMONT

1 BR: $75K 3BR: $110K WOOD BURN F/PLACES FURNISHED INDOOR & WHIRLPOOL

• 4br/3ba, 3 acres • 2-car garage • Workshop & shed • Master w/whirlpool • Large kitchen-with den • Open liv-dining • Furnished $360K

1 BR. $60K 3 B4.$135K WOODBURNING FIREPLACE

• Ski trail & valley views • Beautiful stone & woodwork • Radiant Heat & Central Air • Steam shower & hot tub • Davis Timber frame • $1,485,000.

SKI IN & SHUTTLE OUT CONDOS HIGHRIDGE TRAIL CREEK

LOCATION; JUST LIKE NEW!

• 3BR/2BA+ Den + Game RM • 1.5 ac, stone f/place • cathedral ceiling, laundry • partially finished walk-out basemt, on sewer • security; low temp alarms • Furnished; equipped • $435K

2 BR: $160K WOOD BURN F/PLACES FURNISHED INDOOR & WHIRLPOOL

1 BR $115K 1 BR + LOFT $145K 2 BR 2 BA:$150K INDOOR POOL MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL

WHIFFLETREE

PINNACLE

1 BR: $103K & $116K 2 BR: $174K 3BR: $220K SUMMER POOL & WHIRLPOOL (IN & OUTDOOR) TENNIS & PAVED PARKING

2BR: $120K FURNISHED, GAS F/P COMMON W/ DRYER TENNIS & OUTDR POOL

SPACIOUS CONTEMPORARY

NEAR GREEN MTN NTL GOLF COURSE! • 5BR/3BA, 19 Ac, 2-car garage • Just like new! 3BR/3BA suites • South West Mtn range views • Granite, maple floors, ½ BA, 5Ac • Mud room, game room • Open flr plan w/cathedral ceiling • Sauna/jet tub/furnished • Garage: heated, tall doors & • Guest wing w/den storage $545K House Generator, large deck $599K

WINTER MTN VIEWS

• 4BR/3BA home w/wood stove • Furnished & equipped • Detached garage w/1BR apt. • Washer/dryer, new indoor oil tank $345K

GREAT LOCATION!

• 3BR, 2.5 BA • Cathedral ceiling • Gas f/plc & Outdoor shed • Walk to restaurant & Bus Stop • Flat access, furnished $239K

ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED

• 5BR/4BA, southern exposure • Open floor plan, yr-rd mtn views • 7.5 Ac., privacy, elevator • Large kitchen w/a pantry room • 2 stone fireplaces in living rooms • Furnished & equipped

$549K

MENDON DUPLEX

PRIVATE SETTING

• Updated Kitchen • Vaulted Ceiling • Lots of Sun & Light • 3 Br. 2 Bath • Oversized 2 car garage • Rec rm with web bar $299K

SPECTACULAR MTNSIDE RETREAT!

Lenore Bianchi

‘tricia Carter

Meghan Charlebois

Pat Linnemayr

Peter Metzler

Daniel Pol

Katie McFadden

Chris Bianchi

Merisa Sherman

335 Killington Rd. • “First” on the Killington Road • Open Daily, 9-5 • #1 since 1989 Sales & Winter Seasonal Rentals MLS MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

REALTOR

• 2 Unit Duplex • 3 BR upper, 2 BRlower • Close to Killington & Rutland • Large Bright Family Room with Stone Fireplace • Large open flat back yard with views of mountains $215,000

The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018• 35 1810 Killington Road • Killington, VT 05751 Phone: 800-338-3735 • Fax: 802-422-3320 www.vthomes.com • email: info@vthomes.com “It’s All About Performance”

PRIME! Highly desirable Killington neighborhood, Close to Golf Course, Killington & Pico. This 3 bedroom contemporary style home has a spacious cathedral ceiling living room & greenhouse windows, master bedroom, private bath, new heat pump, & new deck; two gas fireplace stoves; remodeled kitchen, new appliances; new windows; beautiful wood doors; new Rinnai heaters; large Jacuzzi, 2 car attached garage with paver stone floor; new paver stone front patio; & much more. Home is ideal for either a primary residence or vacation getaway. Excellent rental income potential. Furnished with some exceptions. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this one soon! $299,000

Spacious, bright, airy 2 level, 2 bedroom, 2 bath Fox Hollow townhouse, ground floor, open floor plan, soaring vaulted ceilings, massive floor to ceiling wood burning brick fireplace, large jet tub in master bath, and outdoor patio. New electric range, new microwave, and new flat screen TV. Freshly painted and carpeted. On-site seasonal outdoor pool and tennis courts. Centrally located, with close proximity to both Pico and Killington ski resorts. This Fox Hollow unit would make a great vacation home, or a most desirable primary residence as well $123,500

Spacious, nicely decorated, multi-level, 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath Woods end unit, cathedral ceilings, wood burning fireplace, birdseye maple wood floors, tile floors, wet bar, giant whirlpool tub, and sauna. Each bedroom has its own bath. Open floor plan, large windows bringing in natural light. Enjoy the beautiful Woods Spa amenities, indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, and fully equipped fitness center. Close proximity to skiing at Killington, restaurants, shops, and nightlife along the Killington Road. $215,000

Okemo-Woodstock Featured Property This well maintained custom built 4 bedroom, 6 Bath Trailside Home is a must see. It has 6,235 sq. ft. of finished space plus 1,715 sq. ft. of semi-finished space on the upper floor, which could be used as an office, studio or master bedroom and is plumbed for a bath. Three gas fired fireplaces, 2 dishwashers 2 sets of washer dryers. A large wrap around deck with mahogany decking. All doors and waistcoat are hand made on site. It has a two car garage which is plumbed for heat. $1,200,000

Contemporary Killington home on 1.2 Acres in private wooded setting. Spacious. comfortable light-filled living room 2 sliding glass doors to deck, efficient VT Castings Intrepid wood stove (2 years old) on tile hearth, large dining area. kitchen with center island, oak cabinets, washer/dryer area. Pantry closet, half bath and coat closet also on main level. Lower level includes Master Bedroom and in-suite Bath, 2 Guest Bedrooms with Full bath in hall, Bonus room/Den with TV, Utility room with 4 zone Buderas propane furnace (2 years old). Garage space for one car plus storage for firewood and equipment. Furnished & Equipped including appliances & wood stove, REDUCED to $269,000

d ce du e R ice Pr

Located between Killington, Okemo and Woodstock. The Ledges is a 4 bedroom, 2 bath ski house that sleeps 12-18 and is located in Bridgewater on a beautifully landscaped acre. This home includes a large covered porch/deck, hot tub, a ski tuning room, a 3-car pole barn and a deck with pergola overlooking the private pond. This turn-key vacation home has been thoughtfully restored, is fully furnished and ready for your Vermont dream. MLS# 4656357 $279,900.

802-975-0338

Wonderful, well maintained & Spacious 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Telemark Village Townhouse, cathedral ceiling, floor to ceiling brick fireplace, deck, tiled entry mudroom, master bedroom walk-in closet master bath, whirlpool tub, sauna, loft area, skylights, finished walkout lower level, large family room, additional sleeping, wood burning stove. Close to both Killington & Pico ski areas. $239,000

okemo-woodstock.evusa.com 126 Main Street, Ludlow, Vermont ©2017 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and it’s independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principals of the Fair Housing Act.

Prestige Real Estate of Killington Exclusively Killington!

Condos

Featured Properties

SKI IN SKI OUT

The Vistas at Sunrise

Sunrise: Direct ski in ski out (3) remodeled 1BR units start at $145K Pico Village: Direct ski in ski out 1BR 1BA remodeled $62.5K 3BR 2BA $199K Pico Townhouse: 2BR/2BA plus lwr lvl REDUCED $119K

Beautiful Craftsman style 4BR 5BA single family home built in 2016 with ski in ski out access in Sunrise Village and 360 degree mountain views. $1,395,000

Trailview Drive: ½ acre lot w/septic design and great views ‐ $299K Truman’s Trek: (2) +/‐ 1 acre lots with great ski trail views $184K & $199K

Trail Creek connecting units Unique opportunity to purchase connecting 1BR and 2BR loft units at Trail Creek creating a 3BR 3BA condo within walking distance of the slopes. $398K

SKI HOME SHUTTLE OUT Trail Creek: Ski home 1BR 1BA for $115K 1BR 1BA + loft for $159K 2BR 2BA for $159.9K 2BR 2BA + loft for $239K

Land

Topridge unit w/Bear Mt view

KILLINGTON BASIN The Woods: Destination spa on site 2BR/2.5BA townhome $159.9K 3BR 3.5BA townhomes start at $199.9K

Only Topridge townhouse currently available on the market. Direct ski access from lower level onto Sun Dog. Buy NOW and be in for the holidays. $619K

Great Eastern trailside: (3) ski in ski out 1/3rd acre lots w/septic design ‐ $399K each Mini Drive: (2) ski in ski out ½ acre lots w/septic design ‐ $349K each

Located at the Basin Sports complex, upstairs from The Lookout Tavern 2922 Killington Road 802-422-3923 www.prestigekillington.com/mtn

36 • The Mountain Times • Feb. 14-20, 2018

Nationally Recognized for

Quality Care

FALL 2017

WINNER 2017