December 13, 2017

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 1

Mounta in Times Volume 46, Number 50

Dec. 13-19, 2017

Rep. Peter Welch discusses the state of Congress

By Michelle Monroe, St. Albans Messenger

By Mike Garceau, Killington Resort

A snowboarder keeps his focus on the end of a technical rail during the Rails 2 Riches competition.

Happy Hanukkah!

The Jewish holiday Hanukkah begins Dec. 13 and continues until Wednesday, Dec. 20.

Rails 2 Riches results are in

By Evan Johnson

Skiers and snowboarders from around the country gathered under the evening lights at Killington Resort for the annual Rails 2 Riches competition.

In the men’s snowboard division, California’s Nate Haust took first, followed by Storm Rowe and Max Lyons of Vermont. Lyons also won for best trick. In the women’s snowboard division, Lauren Tamposi of New Hampshire was the winner, followed by Vermonter Maggie Leon and Savannah Shinske of

Minnesota. Tamposi was the winner for best trick.

In skiing, Marion Balsamo of New Mexico led the women, followed by Brooke Potter of Colorado in second and Shondra Charbonneau of Ontario, Canada in third. In the men’s side, Sandy Boville Ontario was the winner, followed by Emile Bergeron of Quebec and Brian Gardiner of New Hampshire in third. Dale Talkington of Utah won for best trick.

Pico plans opening day, weekend community “food raiser” Big snowfall hits region Central Vermont was blanketed by mixed snowfall on Tuesday, Dec. 12, slowing traffic, closing schools, and bringing smiles to the faces of skiers and riders in the mountains. Killington and Pico received between 6 and 11 inches of fresh snow over 48 hours, opening more terrain at Killington and preparing Pico for opening day, Friday.

Okemo Mountian Resort saw nine inches of snowfall.

Pico Mountain is scheduled to kick off its 2017-18 winter season at 9 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 15. The fifth annual Opening Weekend Food Raiser will take place on Dec. 16-17, when discounted lift tickets will be provided in exchange for food donations for low-income Vermonters.

The Food Raiser is a partnership with Pico Mountain and local nonprofit organization BROC Community Action, which feeds 600 families each month through the BROC Community Food Shelf. Discounted singleday lift tickets will be available Saturday and Sunday at the Pico Sales Center for $29 (regularly $79) for all ages with a donation of three non-perishable food items.

“We at Pico Mountain are proud to support those in need in our community and continue our Opening Weekend tradition of rallying our ski and snowboard family with a food raiser to collect donations and grow awareness of food insecurity in southern Vermont ahead of the winter holidays,” says Rich McCoy, director of operations at Pico Mountain. “BROC Community Action works relentlessly to improve the quality of life for Vermonters in our community and we utilize incentives like discounted lift tickets to encourage food donations, because every single contribution helps feed a neighbor in need.”

Additional ways to save on lift tickets include My Pico 3 Packs, three-ticket bundles which can be used throughout the 2017-18 season or shared with friends and family on the same day. While they are valid all season long, My Pico 3 Packs are only available for purchase through Dec. 14. Skiers and snowboarders can choose from 3-packs valid any day excluding peak days ($114) or 3-packs valid any day ($124).

Governor takes half-step toward weed legalization

By Alan Keays, VTDigger

Living A.D.E. What’s happening? Find local Arts, Dining & Entertainment Pages 17-24

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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Gov. Phil Scott says he will stand by his commitment to support legislation that would legalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana in Vermont.

“I made that commitment.

It’s a libertarian approach,” the governor said Dec. 1 during an interview on Vermont Public Radio’s “Vermont Edition.”

However, he said that before supporting a measure to set up a regulatory and tax system for retail sales of marijuana, the issue of driver impairment would need to be addressed.

“Impairment is taking on a whole new meaning these days.

It’s not just impairment due to alcohol, not just to marijuana, but it’s prescription drugs and heroin Weed legalization, page 4

As the threat of another government shutdown loomed on Thursday, Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt., spoke with the Messenger about what is transpiring in Washington.

“It’s wild,” Welch said, mentioning Jerusalem, impeachment and the House firearms vote, all of which had taken place the day before.

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced the U.S. would consider Jerusalem the capital of Israel, drawing rebukes from around the world.

Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, brought articles of impeachment to the House floor, and the House voted to override local gun laws and allow concealed carry of firearms in places which currently bar it.

Then there was the government shutdown. “My guess is it will be averted,” said Welch. He was correct. The Republicans in both the House and Senate passed a continuing resolution to keep the government operating until Dec. 22, with few Democratic votes.

The resolution, he said, was entirely in Republican hands, and they didn’t want a distraction from their tax bill, he suggested.

“Everything they’re doing is trying to get their tax bill through by Christmas,” said Welch.

The debate over a continuing resolution and whether that resolution should keep the government running for two or three weeks was between the Freedom Caucus, Republican moderates Welch, page 5

State to spend $31 million on school tax incentives (so far)

By Anne Galloway, VTDigger

Financial analysts say the state will spend $31 million over a three-year period on tax incentives to towns for school district mergers.

In fiscal year 2019 alone, taxpayers will subsidize $16.1 million in tax breaks for towns that merge school districts.

The Joint Fiscal Office says that will be the high water mark year for the incentives. The amount needed for tax breaks will decline in the outgoing years because of the structure of the incentives.

In the first year, towns get an eight-cent tax break.

That amount drops by two cents a year over a four-year period. More towns will be eligible for the eight-cent tax break in the coming year. Subsequently, the total amount will drop.

Thirty-two new unified districts representing 139 town school districts have taken advantage of tax breaks under Act 46, according to the Agency of Education.

The tax incentives have been factored into the statewide education fund budget and the seven percent average increase in the statewide property tax rate this year, according to state officials.

The cost of the merger incentives for individual districts is borne by all taxpayers across the state.

Brad James, the finance manager for the education agency, says more districts than anticipated have gone ahead with consolidation votes.

“I don’t think anyone expected we’d get this far,” James said. “We’ve had bigger demand than folks anticipated. Is it a lot of money, yes, but are we going to see a benefit, I certainly hope so,” James said.

Act 46, the school consolidation law, is designed to help small town school districts join forces with neighboring towns in unified districts.

The restructuring effort also promises to yield savings, lawmakers and state officials have said.

Just how much the mergers will render in savings, however, is not clear. In some cases, local schools have closed, and students are being sent to other towns for schooling.

James said the agency will be surveying business managers to find out what costs would have been if the mergers hadn’t gone through.

“A lot of this [savings] is going to happen through attrition,” James said. “Everyone wants to see savings overnight, but I don’t think that’s reasonable and it’s not in the best interest of the students.”

LOCAL NEWS

2 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

KPAA hosts first holiday festival of the season

By Julia Purdy

By Julia Purdy

A small flock of Canada geese makes its way across Combination Pond in Rutland.

Public input saves Moon Brook

By Julia Purdy

The fourth of five public forums on water quality in Moon Brook took place at the Rutland High School Thursday, Nov. 30.

The meeting was conducted by Roy Schiff and Jessica Louisos of Milone & MacBroom, water quality consultants. Public Works Commissioner Jeff Wennberg and Ethan Swift of the state Department of Environmental Conservation were present; in all, about 15 neighbors and supporters attended.

The series of forums presents options for achieving acceptable water temperatures in Moon Brook and its ponds, as well as a plan for dealing with the dam at Combination Pond, which is in poor condition.

The key goals for Moon Brook and its ponds are water quality; the safety of the Combination Pond dam and liability of the city, which owns the dam; treatment of storm runoff into Combination Pond; overall savings to taxpayers; and the ability to start construction in October 2018.

Water quality is achieved by establishing the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for pollutants, in this case too-warm water temperatures that impair fish populations and other aquatic life.

The forum series has been designed to gather all information and concerns from stakeholders and others, brainstorm alternative solutions, decide on the one that achieves water quality standards while meeting community needs, and develop a remediation design accordingly.

Director of Public Works Jeff Wennberg said that for the first time ever to his knowledge, “The modeling the state had to do to demonstrate that the temperature targets could be reached was directed to a large degree by what’s coming out of the public process.”

In the past, the state would put together a TMDL based on studies, independently of community preference. This exercise has made community involvement an

KILLINGTON—Killington-Pico Area Association lit up the night Dec. 1 with its 13th annual Festival of Trees, a raffle of fully decorated Christmas trees and food drive. Kicking off the holiday season, the event continued into Saturday, Dec. 2, and included live music, visits with Santa, ornament-making and horse-drawn wagon rides.

Parking outside the Killington Grand Hotel was tight Friday evening as families and couples from around the area flocked into the hotel in a holiday mood. They were greeted by a ballroom filled with 71 Christmas trees, all donated and uniquely decorated by businesses and organizations from Rutland to Woodstock.

Vince Chiarella, a Killington resident and KPAA board member, helped to man the raffle ticket table, where bins overflowed with non-perishable food items, and raffle tickets to win a decorated tree were for sale.

“I believe in my five years in the KPAA, this is the busiest I’ve seen it on a Friday

night,” he said over the din of excited voices. “It seems like everyone’s having a good time, they’re really impressed with the trees, the decorations are great, and we’re hoping for a good event.”

Outside, Piper and Bingo, a team of big Belgian draft horses, stood patiently waiting for their wagon to fill up for a turn around the hotel.

“We are Mountain’s Edge Farm out of Hinesburg, Vermont,” said Jennifer Lang, who brought the horses. “This is our fifth year coming here. It’s very busy, we have to go by a signup sheet,” Lang said.

She commented that children usually want to pet the horses but are a little intimidated. “It’s a thrill for us to see the kids who have never really been that close to animals.”

Back in the crowded ballroom, ticketholders strolled and browsed for their favorite tree, excited children darted between the trees, and toddlers were a handful as they reached for shiny objects. Stockingcapped volunteers sold

Moon Brook, page 28

go for it. We’ve got the landing.

pizza slices and cotton candy. The resort provided a cash bar.

Many tree decorations followed themes: sports themes, snowmen, tropical vacation, winter, travel, food, Christmas presents, nature, roses, ornaments made from recycled materials such as newspaper and bottlecaps, fruit, cookies, candy, stocking stuffers, holiday party, bicycling, vegetable gardening, crafts.

Lights, garlands, and tinsel icicles abounded. Imagination was the limit and nothing seemingly was overlooked.

Children lined up for Santa’s Workshop to make an ornament, listen to storytime, and sit on Santa’s knee. While they waited, ​ they could color or draw at a long table equipped with felt markers and printed pictures of Christmas stockings and a Merry Christmas message. It was a well-attended table.

Jim Lewis is a Killington resident and volunteers in Santa’s Workshop every year, “and happily so,” he said with a big smile. “I’ve got it down pat.” He does KPAA holiday festival, page 28

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LOCAL NEWS

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 3

Submitted

MADELINE MORSE

Local student nominated for presidential scholars program POULTNEY—Madeline Morse, a Stafford Technical Center senior from Poultney High School, has been selected as one of five career technical education students in the state of Vermont as a nominee for the U.S. Department of Education’s Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical Education.

The program was created by executive order of President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964.

Morse was nominated by her chef instructor Lisa Fennimore. Jay Ramsey, state director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), commented that the selection committee felt Morse “exemplified outstanding scholarship and skills” in her CTE program.

Morse is a second-year student at Stafford in the culinary arts program and was recently accepted to Johnson & Wales University, Providence, R.I., where she will continue to study in the field of culinary arts.

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Rutland High School’s Max Lozier, a bassist, is headed to Florida to play with a national ensemble.

Rutland High sends student to all-national honor ensemble at Disney World

RUTLAND—Max Lozier, a senior bassist at Rutland High School, has earned spots in district, state, and regional music festivals during his music career. That talent and dedication found him joining music students from across the United States in a showcase of the “best of the best” during the National Association for Music Education’s (NAfME) 2017 All-National Honor Ensembles, held Nov. 26-29, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. Only 608 students from 49 states and territories

were selected for the elite spots. Auditions, open solely to students who had been selected to their respective All-State Music Festival, were based on recordings, as well as an application. Lozier, who learned of his selection to the National Symphony Orchestra last summer, was one of only three Vermont students to be chosen.

“It’s such a wonderful opportunity for a serious music student,” said Sarah Koon, Rutland High School orchestra director. “I’m glad he had a chance to work with other students of such a high Talent, page 5

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4 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

LOCAL NEWS

By Jess Wisloski, VTDigger

A school bus warns drivers to stop, for children boarding and exiting the vehicle.w

Union, boards reach deal as strike loomed over talks in Rutland Northeast

By Alan J. Keays

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BRANDON – With the help of a federal mediator and after a six hours of talks Saturday, Dec. 2, bus drivers and paraeducators of the Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union have reached a tentative contract with negotiators for the school boards.

The deal comes two days after the union voted to strike unless there was agreement on a new contract.

The union had been without a new contract for 18 months.

Wages and cost sharing for health insurance had been the main sticking points.

In addition to Otter Valley Union High School in Brandon, other schools that would have been affected by a strike included Barstow Memorial School in Chittenden, Leicester Central School, Lothrop Elementary School in Pittsford, Neshobe Elementary School in Brandon, Sudbury Country School and Whiting Elementary School.

Representatives of the two parties

Weed legalization:

as well as federal mediator Cynthia Jeffries started the negotiation process in executive session at 11 a.m.

Saturday and emerged a little after 5 p.m.

“I am excited and very pleased to announce we have reached a tentative agreement,” Jennifer Mallory said Saturday evening shortly after reaching the deal.

Mallory is a paraeducator who serves as co-president of the Rutland Northeast Education Association Paraeducators and Bus Drivers Unit.

“We look forward to being able to continue our work with our students uninterrupted,” she said “We love our jobs and we love working in the community.”

The union membership will vote on the proposed contract at a meeting Monday evening. The union has 82 members, according to Mallory.

Dr. James Rademacher, chief negotiator for the school boards, said

Saturday evening that the school boards are expected to take up the tentative contract at a meeting Tuesday evening.

“I will say that both teams came to the meeting highly motivated to come to a successful agreement,” he said. “Both teams realized we were very far apart and we both were going to have to make significant concessions to come to an agreement.”

And both sides did, Rademacher added.

“I think both teams are very happy with coming to an agreement.

I’m not sure I would necessarily say we are happy with the terms,” he said. “Both sides had to give a lot … but we both believe we are capable of living with the terms.”

Both Rademacher and Mallory said they were optimistic that the deal will gain final approval. They also both praised the work of Jeffires, the federal mediator.

Driver impairment still an issue

continued from page 1 and a combination of all,” the governor said on VPR. “We have to come up with a way to determine impairment on our highways regardless of what the substance is.”

Last session, Scott vetoed S.22, a bill that would have allowed possession of small amounts of pot.

In doing so, he suggested

ways the bill could be changed on several points to win his support.

The governor this summer created a commission that is studying marijuana legalization and its possible impacts, including on highway safety.

The governor said in June that he would support legalizing the personal possession of up to an ounce of marijuana as well as the cultivation of a few plants.

“It’s not high priority for me,” the governor said Friday on “Vermont Edition,” “but I did make a commitment that I was supportive of the bill that was put together. … I haven’t spoken to the legislative leaders about what their intent is, but I would suspect that they’d either make some changes on the floor, send it back to committee, make some alterations, and then we’ll see what they either add or delete and see if it’s the same as what I said I committed to pushing forward with.”

A new proposal kept the initial possession and

cultivation provisions of the earlier legislation, but also created criminal penalties for using pot in a vehicle with children and increased penalties for providing marijuana to anyone underage.

Rebecca Kelley, the governor’s spokesperson, said Wednesday that Scott’s recent comments are not a departure from his previous statements.

“I don’t think that was a new proclamation,” Kelley said. “They came to a compromise, and he said he would support the compromise at that time, and he has maintained that throughout.”

Sen. Dick Sears, DBennington, chair of the Judiciary Committee, said Wednesday he was not surprised by the governor’s recent comments.

Sears said the governor’s administration took part in negotiating the bill brought up in the veto session, along with himself and Rep. Maxine Grad, D-Moretown, chair of the House Judiciary Committee.

“The Senate passed a bill during the veto session.

The House Republicans refused to take it up,” Sears said. “The bill languishes there and will be taken up in the beginning of January. I’m not sure what the House is going to do.”

Colchester Police Chief Jennifer Morrison, president of the Vermont Association of Chiefs of Police, said Wednesday that her organization continues to take a “not yet” approach to the legalization of marijuana.

“We hope that the governor will consider all of the information that the association has provided to him,” she said. “We are very confident that Vermont is not ready for further liberalization or legalization of marijuana.”

Eli Harrington, cofounder of Heady Vermont, a website that provides updates on marijuana-related policies and guidance on advocating for policy change, said Wednesday that he’s “cautiously optimistic” after hearing the governor’s recent remarks.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 5

STATE NEWS

Illegal border crossings down in 2017

By Trent Campbell, Addison Independent

Sen. Chris Bray, D-New Haven, is proposing a per-parcel fee to help pay for Vermont’s share of federally mandated water quality improvements during the next 20 years.

Senator proposes fee to clean up waterways

By John Flowers, Addison Independent

Debate in Montpelier surrounding efforts to clean up the state’s waterways has been surging like the Otter Creek in April, but legislative action on funding for those efforts has been moving at a glacial pace.

With that in mind, Sen. Chris Bray, D-New Haven, is suggesting Vermont adopt a per-parcel fee that would yield $18.8 million of the estimated $30 million the state will need to raise during each of the next 20 years as its share of a federally mandated, $2.6 billion cleanup of Lake Champlain and related waterways.

Federal authorities regularly call upon states to develop “Total Daily Maximum Load” (TMDL) thresholds for their impaired waters. TMDL identifies the maximum amount of a pollutant that a body of water can receive while still meeting water quality standards.

The Clean Water Initiative of 2015 (Act 64) aims at addressing federal concerns. While state officials have zeroed in on the water quality problems and potential solutions, they have yet to agree on a 20-year funding plan for the work that needs to be done. Individual lawmakers have sought to protect their respective constituencies as much Waterway clean up, page 29

In 2017, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported 310,531 apprehensions nationwide, 449 of which were Swanton Sector, Vermont.

In FY17 overall, CBP recorded the lowest level of illegal cross-border migration on record, as measured by apprehensions along the border

nationwide.

The number of “inadmissible aliens” intercepted at ports of entry nationwide declined by 21.2 percent over the previous year. CBP officers in the Boston field office, covering all of New England, intercepted 4,788 inadmissible aliens.

While this is an increase from FY16, the total

APPREHENSIONS OF INDIVIDUALS PRESENT WITHOUT ADMISSION FROM CANADA WERE DOWN, WITH165 IN SWANTON and inadmissible encounters at the U.S. ports of entry. Apprehensions of individuals present without admission from Canada were down, with165 in Swanton.

Air and marine agents worked in partnership with other law enforcement agencies to effect 14 apprehensions and 213 criminal arrests in New England, out of over 37,000 apprehensions and nearly 2,600 arrests

number of arriving passengers also increased over last year.

“CBP officers at the ports of entry throughout New England are committed to enforcing the border security laws of our nation, which includes a significant focus on counterterrorism, while also facilitating international trade and travel,” said director of field operations for Boston, William A. Ferrara.

Welch: Dems hold out for opiate funding, children’s health, defense cuts

Talent:

High school student has it

continued from page 3 caliber.”

Lozier was previously named to the Green Mountain Music District V Orchestra (all four years of high school), the Vermont All State Orchestra, and twice to the New England Music Festival Association Orchestra. At Rutland High School, he is a member of the Orchestra, the Advanced Orchestra, the Symphonic Band, and the Jazz Ensemble.

“Participating in the National Orchestra encourages me to be more of a leader,” Lozier said of the experience. “It encourages me to work harder. Participating in this group helps to solidify my desire to major in mu-

sic in college.”

According to the NAfME website, the AllNational Honor Ensembles consist of a concert band, symphony orchestra, mixed choir, and jazz ensemble. The concert band and symphony orchestra each had 155 and 152 instrumentalists respectively, the jazz ensemble 20 instrumentalists, and the mixed choir 281 vocalists.

Orchestra students rehearsed a challenging repertoire over three days that included works by Tchaikovsky, Bernstein, and a new piece of music composed by a student entry for a national composition competition.

Table of contents Opinion...................................................................... 6 Calendar..................................................................... 8 Music Scene............................................................. 11 Just For Fun.............................................................. 12 Rockin’ the Region................................................... 13 News Briefs.............................................................. 14 Living A.D.E.............................................................. 17 Food Matters............................................................ 20 Lift Lines................................................................... 25 Columns................................................................... 26 Service Directory..................................................... 28

continued from page 1

Pets........................................................................... 30

and conservative Republicans, said Welch. Democrats he’s created.” were excluded from the conversation.

Welch cited specifically Trump’s efforts at deregulation, “My view, very strongly, is that we should keep the lights his decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accords, on,” said Welch. and his efforts to end the Affordable Care Act health insurHowever, his position is that unless a continuing ance programs without a replacement. resolution contains funding for the opiate epidemic, the “He’s been very divisive,” Welch repeated.

Veteran’s Administration, the Children’s Health Insurance It was that divisiveness which Texas Democrat Al Green Program (CHIP) and an agreement that any cuts to nonmade the focus of his articles of impeachment. Previmilitary programs will be matched by cuts to the Pentagon ous impeachment articles have accused the president of budget, Democrats should oppose it. violating the emoluments clause of the Constitution by The resolution as passed did not include funding for profiting from his role as president, and alleged collusion CHIP, which provides health insurance on a sliding scale to with Russia. Green accused the president of dividing the children whose parents make too much money to qualify country by promoting and expressing bigotry against for Medicaid, but who do not have access to health insura number of groups including blacks, Muslims, Puerto ance through their employRicans and people who are er. In Vermont, the program transgender.

“MY VIEW, VERY STRONGLY, IS THAT is known as Dr. Dynosaur.

Welch voted to table’s WE SHOULD KEEP THE LIGHTS ON,” Congress allowed the impeachment resolution, program to expire in the along with 363 other memSAID WELCH. fall, and across the country, bers of the House. Just 58 states are starting to run out of money to pay for health Democrats voted in favor of proceeding with the articles, care for children. with four voting “Present.”

“Republicans only” “We’ve got to hold the president accountable,” said Unlike his predecessor, Rep. John Boehner, House Welch, but he argued that the investigation being led by Speaker Paul Ryan is not willing to build a coalition of Special Counsel Robert Mueller into the connections beDemocrats and more moderate Republicans on issues tween Trump’s campaign and administration and Russia such as the debt ceiling and the budget, explained Welch. are the best means of doing that.

“What Ryan has done so far is make a commitment to “The Mueller investigation is aggressive and it’s making his conference that he won’t work with Democrats,” said progress,” said Welch. “We’ve really got to support MuelWelch. “And his conference is divided. It’s a dangerous ler.” situation, quite frankly.”

“There’s a lot of smoke there,” said Welch, noting that The Republicans negotiated both their health care the president initially denied any contacts with Russia, repeal bills and the current tax proposals behind closed but now evidence has shown considerable contact during doors and without input from Democrats. The bills were, both the campaign and the transition between members Welch said, “written in secret.” of Trump’s team and Russian operatives. Some of those He expressed concern the budget may take a similar Russians have been members of the government while path. “In any budget, there’s negotiations,” said Welch, others reportedly had close ties to it. who once led the Vermont Senate. “We simply have to get “In reality, the impeachment process is political,” said back to some compromise.”

Welch. While the Constitution states a president and othAs things stand, Welch said Ryan has “handcuffed himer federal officials may be impeached for “high crimes self and he’s given the keys to the handcuffs to the Freedom and misdemeanors” that term has never been defined.

Caucus, the most extreme elements of his caucus.”

Before an impeachment can take place, “you’ve Impeachment got to establish a foundation that has credibility with “I think President Trump has been divisive and destruc- the American people and that requires investigative,” said Welch. “It’s dismaying to me how much chaos tion,” said Welch.

Mother of the Skye................................................... 31 Classifieds................................................................ 32 Real Estate................................................................ 34

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 • Dec. 13-19, 2017

opinion

OP-ED

A way to trump Trump

By Angelo Lynn, Addison County Independent If you’re sick-to-your$2 billion a year to heat stomach with Trump’s their homes and get people reckless actions that are and products where they undermining America’s need to go. Of that amount, fight against global warm$8 out of every $10 goes out ing (not to mention our role of state into the pockets in world affairs, the longof fossil fuel giants like term economy, health care, Exxon and Shell. If we can education, immigration, bend that curve and keep and on and on and on), more of those dollars at here’s a positive step you home, we can employ more can take to fight back: Share Vermonters and help create your ideas on what climate a more robust 21st century policies and solutions economy.

Vermont should pursue to A few ideas to ponder, meet its clean energy and as proposed by VNRC’s greenhouse gas reduction Johanna Miller, include: goals. implementing a carbon You can do that through tax; various ways to use the Vermont’s Climate Action $18.7 million EnvironmenCommission, which is tal Mitigation Trust Funds looking for short- and long- the state will receive as part term solutions. The comof the Volkswagen diesel mission was established by emissions settlement; Gov. Phil Scott this past July expand weatherization and is seeking to develop investments. at least three recommenBe creative, be innovadations by Jan. 1, 2018, tive, be involved and help that the governor can take Vermont be the state that action on. There’s a Dec. 14 shows a better way fordeadline for submissions. ward. Send your ideas to: Here’s a juicy fact to anr.vcac@vermont.gov by stimulate your thinking: Dec. 14.

According to the Vermont Angelo Lynn is publisher Natural Resources Council, of the Addison County IndeVermonters spend almost pendent.

Of drones, schools and grandchildren

By William Mathis

Just as we were thinking that “The Matrix” and “The Terminator” were science fiction, the evening news shows us a different reality. We are being tracked by our own personal devices. Cameras with facial recognition systems increasingly pervade corridors and are carried by drones.

Raising the specter of all-seeing snoops, these are well within the grasp of today’s technology. These are but faint harbingers of more pervasive intrusions which will affect everyone in a multitude of ways. Our jobs, what we buy, our hobbies, what will be taught in schools, and our personal lives will be – despite weak assurances – open to the public. This will change the very nature of society.

But that’s not all. Open the federal and state Departments of Labor’s websites and go to the work force projections. A quick look shows the bulk of job vacancies are low-paying. This is troubling enough, but routine jobs are being automated and will basically be gone by the end of the 2020s. That’s about 40 percent of today’s jobs, says a Yale-Oxford research team. By 2065, artificial intelligence will match, then exceed, human capabilities, reports MIT’s Technology Review.

Different sources estimate different doomsdays but it all happens in our grandchildren’s lifetimes. We already see self-driving cars and trucks, delivery by drone, the desertification of shopping malls, and banking by teller-less ATM. As these trends continue, a huge segment of the newly trained STEM population will be unemployed or underemployed.

An Obama White House working group report says the jobs that will disappear first are those that are lower paid, lower-skilled and require less education. This raises the specter of even greater gaps between the affluent and the increasingly unemployed. Machines will be able to repair themselves and enhance their own capabilities without human intervention (or control). Further advances in STEM technologies and manufacturing will be accomTechnology, page 10

By RJ Matson

You can lay the groundwork for reforming Congress

By Lee Hamilton

The first three words of the U.S. Constitution are, “We the People.”

The Constitution itself, our institutions of government, the democratic process – all were established to give Americans a voice in their own governance.

So let me ask you some questions about Congress today. Do you think the voice of ordinary Americans resounds strongly in its hallways and chambers?

LETTERS

Pittsford Rec. says thanks Dear Editor, On Saturday, Nov. 18, the Pittsford Recreation Department sponsored the annual holiday craft sale in the Lothrop school gym and downstairs in the cafeteria. The recreation department would like to recognize Kelly Connaughton, the craft fair coordinator. Thank you, Kelly, very much for all your hard work you put into the craft fair events the past three years. Each fall she volunteers many, many countless hours to make certain that each event is a huge success for all. In all there were 37 paid vendors. All registration fees directly to the “Pittsford Christmas for Kids.” $555 was donated to the Pittsford Christmas for Kids, formerly known as the Santa Fund. Thank you to all the crafters who signed up this year! Thank you to Debbie Alexander, Lothrop School, principal, for allowing the Recreation Department to host the craft fair at Lothrop Elementary School.

Randy Adams, recreation director, Pittsford

Does Congress produce legislation that resolves our differences and brings us closer together? Do you believe that the political system produces members of Congress who fairly and effectively represent the diversity of this country and address our real, long-term challenges?

I thought not.

This is why it’s past time for comprehensive reform of Congress.

Representative democracy is being undermined by the rising power of

Thanks to runners, Turkey Trot a success

Dear Editor, The Okemo Trot It Off 5K is a family and communityoriented event that takes place each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Proceeds from the event go to support the Wendy Neal Scholarship Fund and the programs of BRGNS, which serves Ludlow and the surrounding area. The event is a long-standing tradition at Okemo, and the BRGN staff, volunteers, and clients would like to thank the organizers, and especially Leslie Boyle for their dedication and support. This 5K running and walking race is designed for the avid runner or the recreational walker eager to burn off the calories from that extra slice of Thanksgiving dessert. Either way, the money raised will go towards feeding those who may not have the good fortune of a Thanksgiving dinner, and the toys donated will go into holiday baskets for their children.

Peter LaBelle, president, Black River Good Neighbor Services, Ludlow

big money, the challenges of governing a country as large and diverse as ours, the problems brought by rising economic inequality, and too many citizens who were never taught the skills needed to make the pragmatic judgments necessary in a representative democracy.

Part of what we need is outside the purview of any single institution. We lack a robust system of civic education, designed to produce an engaged, informed electorate able to

Congress, page 7

Mueller investigation has nothing on Trump

Dear Editor, Clever cartoon, except it isn’t.

Mueller investigation has nothing because there is nothing. The only Russia collusion

exists on the Democrat side.That is what should be investigated. You are the fake news.

Paul Ferla Killington, Vt.

Introducing the Green Mountain Party Dear Editor, Are you at all frustrated with the political direction Vermont is currently on? If so read on, a group of us have formed the Green Mountain Party to address the concerns of so many in Vermont that is being ignored. Here is a link to our party at the secretary of state. https://www.sec.state. vt.us/elections/parties. aspx Term Limits: eight years or two terms whichever is longer, it’s standard for our party and we’d push the state to adopt this from Select Board to Governor.

Our seven-point plan is directed at the following: 1) Ethics – Bring our D- to an A+. Give

our ethics commission some money to operate, investigatory powers and enforcement powers.

This alone will save us millions and increase efficiency by multiples.

2) Big Money Influence out of State Government we’d tax out of state lobbyists, PAC money heavily. PAC money is just legalized bribery funding propaganda and enriching those who peddle the propaganda.

We don’t need billionaires running our state, Soros, Koch, Bloomberg, pick your billionaire, we don’t need them, they don’t even live here.

3) Stop The Gross Negligence with our Tax Money We aim to improve schooling and healthcare, just a few Green Mountain Party, page 11

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 7

CAPITOL QUOTES “If this stuff were accurate, it would have come out years ago.

I think it’s a smear campaign.”

Said Vermont Republican National Committeewoman Suzanne Butterfield, speaking in support of Alabama senatorial candidate Roy Moore, who faces allegations of sexual assault and harassment. Alabama residents went to the polls on Tuesday to cast ballots.

“The world knows that hundreds of Olympic dreams have been stolen by the doping system in the country where I was born.”

Said Vitaly Stepanov, a former employee of Russia’s antidoping agency, writing in an affidavit submitted to the International Olympic Committee this fall. Russia has been banned from the 2018 Winter Olympic Games.

“Old tactics, they never really come off the table. It’s probably one of the toughest attack methods to detect and prevent.”

Said David Kelly, a former assistant commissioner for counterterrorism in the New York City Police Department, speaking about the threat of suicide bombings in cities. Kelly was speaking to the New York Times after a pipe bomb exploded in a transit tunnel near Penn Station and Times Square.

A $15 minimum wage would be disastrous

By Rob Roper

When the Legislature returns in January, it appears that passing a law mandating a $15 minimum wage in Vermont will be a top priority. This is what Senate President pro tem Tim Ashe (D/P-Chittenden) has promised, and a six member summer study committee voted 4-2 along party lines to recommend moving forward with some pathway to $15 an hour.

Don’t do this.

Ashe said in an interview with VPR, “There is no policy right now that I’m aware of that compares with the potential magnitude of benefit of as increasing the minimum wage.” Actually, the opposite

committee agreed that a large number of Vermonters will see their hourly wage go to zero as a result of this increase, not $15.

Proponents, however, believe sacrificing these folks is worth it because many more will benefit. But will they? Seattle, which raised its minimum wage to $13 on the way to $15 in 2021, has already witnessed workers who made $19 an hour or less lose an average $1,500 a year in income as a result of employers cutting hours to compensate for the higher wage rate. According to a study conducted

by Washington State University, Seattle businesses adapted to the minimum wage

EVERYBODY ON THE SUMMER STUDY COMMITTEE AGREED THAT A LARGE NUMBER OF VERMONTERS WILL SEE THEIR HOURLY WAGE GO TO ZERO AS A RESULT OF THIS INCREASE, NOT $15. is true. It’s hard to imagine a policy that would do more damage to the economy in general or to the low-income workers the policy is intended to benefit.

Consider that if Vermont were adopt a $15 minimum wage, the cost to hire unskilled or entry-level laborer here would be more than double what it is in New Hampshire where the hourly minimum wage is, and is likely to remain, $7.25. This, described by the Joint Fiscal Office as “the largest historical spread on record,” would be a crippling competitive disadvantage for Vermont employers. Who in their right mind would start (or keep) a business dependent upon low-skilled labor in Vermont, given this disparity?

We know the sales tax differential between Vermont and New Hampshire (6 percent versus zero) has been a powerful motivator driving economic activity across the border, but a $15 minimum wage would be explosively so. Think of it as a 107 percent tax on minimum wage level labor. This would not only drive employers to New Hampshire, but more customers as well. With wages at half the rate of their Vermont competition, New Hampshire businesses would be able to offer products and services at much cheaper rates – as well as tax free! This dynamic will not end well for Vermont.

While we can understand, respect, and sympathize with the desire to help our friends and neighbors who are struggling to make ends meet, mandating a $15 minimum wage will be more harmful than beneficial to most.

The Vermont Joint Fiscal office warned that were this to pass between 2,000 and 3,000 low-wage workers would lose their jobs. The Heritage Foundation did a study estimating that number could be as high as 11,000. Everybody on the summer study

Congress reform:

increases by reducing the hours for workers in low-wage jobs ($13 to $19/hr.) by about 9 percent.

Moreover, of those who do manage to keep their jobs and pocket the benefits of the higher wage, many will end up losing state benefits that carry a greater value than their increased wages. Although one would hope moving people off public assistance would be an objective of this policy, proponents of the $15 wage don’t necessarily see it that way.

VPR reports, “Ashe says the Legislature can devise ways to insulate low-wage workers from undue losses in benefits.”

What that means, according to the summer study committee report, is increasing the threshold for benefits to negate harm. This “would cost between $4.8 and $12.8 million annually,” and, of course, would have to be funded by a reduction in spending in other parts of government or a tax increase.

We all want to see our economy succeed and our fellow Vermonters pocketing more money. But the $15 minimum wage is a policy that will certainly cost thousands of low-income Vermonters their jobs, put our businesses at a historically severe competitive disadvantage with New Hampshire as well as other states, will increase the cost of local goods and services, and could require a $12.8 million tax increase to ensure people who are getting higher wages won’t lose benefits.

Is this really a policy we want to embrace? The warm, fuzzy feeling that advocates will get if this passes won’t last much longer than the celebratory press conference.

Rob Roper is president of the Ethan Allen Institute. David Flemming, policy analyst, contributed to this piece.

Needs comprehensive reform

continued from page 6

“Whether he’s using a shortened racial slur or the full slur, it’s absolutely unconscionable and it’s a window into the dehumanization in immigration enforcement.”

Said Will Lambek of the Vermont group Migrant Justice, responding to the release of a video that shows sheriff’s deputies in Franklin County using a racial slur during a traffic stop.

Lambek was speaking with the news magazine Seven Days.

sort fact from fiction in a complicated world.

But there are also steps we need our lawmakers to take. Partisan gerrymandering has become a scandal; we have to fight efforts to repress votes; and we need to make it easier for third parties to break into the system.

Greater transparency from those in power or those seeking to influence those in power truly matters. Disclosure of campaign donations, disclosure of foreign money’s track through our political system, disclosure of special-interest spend-

ing – all of this should be a habit in any self-respecting representative democracy.

On Capitol Hill, members need to fund and then rely on independent sources of information they can trust, rather than special interests who too often lay down their own interpretation of the facts as a legislative foundation.

And Congress needs to revitalize the institution itself and restore its power vis-à-vis the president.

This is where you come in. The changes I’m advocating will not come about without citizen action. Our lawmakers have become

too comfortable with the status quo they and their predecessors have built in recent decades. Unless they fix the system, the loss of faith in our process and our institutions will be almost impossible to reverse.

Lee Hamilton is a senior advisor for the Indiana University Center on Representative Government; a Distinguished Scholar, IU School of Global and International Studies; and a professor of practice, IU School of Public and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years.

CALENDAR

8 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

WHAT TO DO IN CENTRAL VERMONT Tree of Remembrance

6 p.m.

Castleton lights the Tree of Remembrance at the library, 638 Main St., Castleton. Submit names of loved ones that have passed. Forms at Castleton Women’s Club or locations in town and Fair Haven. Lighting features children’s stories, signing, Santa with hot cocoa, treats, and music. Info, 802-468-5574.

Free Knitting Class

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.

Judy Collins

Paint and Sip

5 p.m.

Paint and sip with artist Rae Newell at Killington Art Garage. Paint a snowman - all levels welcome, no experience needed. $37 includes all materials and instruction. BYOB, light nosh served. artgaragevt.com to RSVP. 2841 Killington Rd., Killington.

Level 2 Yoga

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.

Bridge Club

6:30 p.m.

Marble Valley Duplicate Bridge Club meets at Godnick Center Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Sanctioned duplicate bridge games. Info, 802-228-6276. 1 Deer St., Rutland. Please join.

International Folk Dancing

7 p.m.

International Folk Dancing with Judy at Rutland Jewish Center, 96 Grove St., Rutland. Learn Israeli and European dances. Dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes with non-skid soles. All welcome, free.

Co ur tes yo f VI NS

7 p.m.

Judy Collins performs Holidays and Hits at Woodstock Town Hall Theatre. Tickets $55 at pentanglearts.org. 31 the Green, Woodstock.

7 p.m.

The Green Mountain Fly Tyers will meet at the Godnick Center on 1 Deer Street in Rutland. Peter Burton demonstrates tying Jack Gartsides’ Marabou Streamer, a soft hackle trout fly. The public is welcome.

GEMENID METEOR SHOWER PARTY AT VINS WEDNESDAY, DEC. 13, 7 P.M.

WEDNESDAY Hanukkah

Eyeing the Stars

7 p.m.

VINS hosts a star party, Eyeing the Stars: Gemenid Meteor Shower, 7-9 p.m. $8 adults, $5 youth. Free for VINS members. Journey to VINS’ new StarLab for program, then move outside to catch a glimpse of a shooting star, with a cup of cocoa. Details at vinsweb.org. 6565 Woodstock Rd., Quechee.

DEC. 13

THURSDAY

Bikram Yoga **

6 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Wednesdays: 6 a.m. Inferno hot pilates; 12 p.m. 1 hour Bikram; 4 p.m. power flow; 5:30 p.m. Bikram hot. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

Story Time

10 a.m.

Maclure Library offers two preschool story hours, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. Parents and care givers are encouraged to bring children from birth to 5 years old. This is a great chance for children to socialize and parents / care givers to make new friends, share concerns, joys, ideas, and experiences and to learn from other parents. Small, intimate group. Info, 802-483-2792. 840 Arch St., Pittsford.

Green Mountain Fly Tyers Meet

Open Swim **

DEC. 14

8 a.m.

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

Tobacco Cessation Group

9 a.m.

Want to quit smoking but nothing works? Join the free tobacco cessation group. Free nicotine patches, gum or lozenges. Every Thursday, 9-10 a.m.

Behavioral Health Clinic, 1 Commons St., Rutland. 802-747-3768 for more info.

Stress Management Workshop

Bikram Yoga **

Active Seniors Lunch

Intro to Starting a Micro Business

Ski Bum Registration Party

Story Hour

Rutland Wellness

Story Time

10 a.m.

BROC offers free Stress Management and Reduction workshop, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 45 Union St., Rutland. RSVP to 802-665-1725; dkirk@broc.org.

12 p.m.

Killington Active Seniors meet for a meal Wednesdays 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.

4 p.m.

Ski Bum Race Series registration party at Moguls Sports Pub, 4-7 p.m.

Local teams of skiers and snowboarders and telemark skiers race down Highline in pursuit of Ski Bum Glory. Races Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Info, killington.com.

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.

Bingo

5:30 p.m.

Bridgewater Grange Bingo, Wednesdays 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.

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

9 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Thursdays: 9 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. 1.5 hour Bikram hot; 6:15 p.m. 1 hour Bikram hot. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

9 a.m.

BROC offers free Introduction to Starting a Micro Business workshop 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Tips and techniques to start your own small business. Bring a beverage or snack. 45 Union St., Rutland. RSVP to ahoyle@broc.org or 802-665-1744.

10 a.m.

Promoting early literacy and socialization skills in a fun setting. Stories, songs, movement, craft. No registration. Ages 2+. Fox Room, Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. 773-1860.

10 a.m.

Maclure Library offers two preschool story hours, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. Parents and care givers are encouraged to bring children from birth to 5 years old. This is a great chance for children to socialize and parents / care givers to make new friends, share concerns, joys, ideas, and experiences and to learn from other parents. Today, Rutland Parent Child Center hosts. Snacks, crafts, stories, open playtime, dance, songs. Info, 802-483-2792. 840 Arch St., Pittsford.

Story Time

10 a.m.

Story time at the West Rutland Public Library. Thursdays at 10 a.m. Bring your young children to enjoy stories, crafts, and playtime. Info, 802-4382964.

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.

Bone Builders

10 a.m.

Bone builders meets Thursdays at Roadside Chapel, 1680 Townline Rd, Rutland Town. Info, 802-773-4854.

Mendon Seniors Lunch

11:30 a.m.

Mendon Senior Citizens have lunch gathering at Sugar and Spice, Route 4 Mendon, second Thursday of each month. For info, 802-773-4187.

** denotes multiple times and/or locations.

FRIDAY Bikram Yoga **

DEC. 15

6 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Fridays: 6 a.m. & 12 p.m. 1 hour Bikram hot; 4 p.m. Inferno hot pilates. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

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 Opens

9 a.m.

Pico Mountain opens for the season! Opening weekend food raiser Dec. 16-17, with discounted lift tickets in exchange for food donations. picomountain.com.

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.

Downtown Rutland Winter ArtWalk

12 p.m.

Downtown Rutland hosts Winter Art Walk, 12-8 p.m. Galleries open all day.

2 guided tours: 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. leaving from Castleton University Bank Gallery. Music and refreshments 5-8 p.m. at galleries: 77 Gallery, Chaffee Art Gallery, The Rutland Drawing, SunCommon Gallery, Castleton University Art Galleries, The Alley Gallery, Timco Jewelers and Goldsmiths, City Hall Exhibit.

Magic: the Gathering

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.

Shabbanukah!

6 p.m.

Shabbanukah at Rutland Jewish Center - service, music, potluck, latkes!

Bring a Menorah and candles for lighting, then short Shabbat service around the table. Organized dairy-veggie potluck. Everyone welcome, dress casual. 96 Grove St., Rutland.

Chanukah Party

6 p.m.

Shabbat Worship and annual Chanukah Party. Join for Shabbat Worship, Chanukah songs, dreidel games, latke contest, and potluck dinner. Bring your chanukiot and an entrée, vegetable, salad, latkes with accompanying garnish, or dessert to share with 10 people. Also bring cans of soup for the Woodstock and Reading Food Shelves. 802-457-4840, shirshalomvt.org.

Congregation Shir Shalom, 1680 West Woodstock Ave., Woodstock. All welcome. Free.

FOLA Christmas Program

7 p.m.

Community Christmas Celebration at Ludlow Town Hall Auditorium featuring dramatic readings of Christmas tales, songs by local artists, student performances, and more. Info, fola.us. 37 S. Depot St., Ludlow.

Winter Carols

7 p.m.

BarnArts presents 7th annual Winter Carols at Barnard’s First Universalist Church, Route 12, Barnard. Adult and youth choral performances. Free, donations welcome.

Bells of Joy

7:30 p.m.

Bells of Joy 35th annual Christmas Concert at United Methodist Church, 71 Williams St., Rutland, in the chapel. Features traditional Christmas carols arranged for bells; plus steel drums. All ages. Donations greatly appreciated.

Scotty McCreery

8 p.m.

Country music hot star Scotty McCreery performs at Paramount Theatre, 30 Center St., Rutland. Tickets $55-$65, paramountvt.org.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 9

2017/2018

SEASON 30 CENTER ST. | RUTLAND, VT 802.775.0903 Full season listing at:

PARAMOUNTVT.ORG

American Idol Winner

SCOTTY McCREERY

Friday | December 15 | 8:00 PM



SATURDAY Bikram Yoga **

DEC. 16

7:30 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Saturdays: 7:30 a.m. 1 hr. Bikram hot; 9 a.m.

1.5 hr. Bikram hot. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

Breakfast with Santa

8 a.m.

Breakfast with Santa at Maple Valley Grange #318, 31 Dugway Rd., S. Wallingford. 8-11 a.m. Pancakes, sausage, bacon, eggs, drink; plus a gift from Santa. $5 adults; $3 kids. Info, 802-353-4651.

Vertical Challenge

8 a.m.

Okemo Mountain kicks off eastern race series, Vertical Challenge. Free, on Bull Run. All ages and abilities. Registration begins 8 a.m.; challenge begins 11 a.m.; race awards and victory party at 3 p.m. skiverticalchallenge.com for more info. Okemo.com to register. 77 Okemo Ridge Rd., Ludlow.

December Demo

8 a.m.

December Demo Day at Okemo Resort, Base Area at Jackson Gore Village, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Test-drive the latest ski/board equipment for free. Credit card imprint required; snowboarders need their own bindings. Last demo at 1 p.m. okemo.com.

Mixed Level Yoga

8:30 a.m.

All Level Flow yoga at Killington Yoga with Judith Schneider. 3744 River Rd, Killington. Info, killingtonyoga.com, 802-422-4500.

Farmers Market Craft Fair

9 a.m.

Pittsford Farmers Market craft fair 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Lothrop School, Route 7, Pittsford. Arts, crafts, food, jewelry, maple, soap, knitting, and specialty items. Info, 802-773-2843.

Christmas Holiday Fair

9 a.m.

Vermont Farmers Market Christmas Holiday Fair at Holiday Inn, Route 7S, Rutland. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. FREE admission! Vermont artists and crafters selling genuine gifts. Glass, wooden ware, ceramics, soaps, jewelry, bees wax candles, herbals, hats, quilts, pottery, dog items; country bakers’ pies, pastries, breads, and more; specialty foods like maple, salsas, honey, apples, and more. Mail order available.

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.

Christmas Weekend at Billings

10 a.m.

Christmas at the Farm weekends in December at Billings Farm & Museum.

A family Christmas story, trivia, animal programs, holiday food programs and activities. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. billingsfarm.org. 802-4572355.

69 Old River Rd., Woodstock.

THE A CHARLIE NUTCRACKER BROWN Featuring dozens of area

LIVE ON STAGE!

dance students

Sunday | December 17 | 1 & 6 PM

CHRISTMAS

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!  Can be purchased and redeemed online!

Snowy Owl Celebration

10 a.m.

Snowy Owl Celebration at VINS, 6565 Woodstock Rd., Quechee. Explore the world of the snowy owl with demonstrations, facts, programs, feedings, and meet one up close! Programs throughout the day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Detailed schedule at vinsweb.org.

A Christmas Carol

7:30 p.m.

Shakespeare on Main Street presents chamber style production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at the Brick Box at Paramount, 30 Center St., Rutland. Tickets $15 adults, $10 students/military, $5 kids under age 12.

Info, shakespeareonmainstreet.org.

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.

SUNDAY

Author Appearance

1 p.m.

Author Megan Price is at Phoenix Books Rutland for a meet and greet and book signing of all of her Vermont Wild books, especially Vol. 5, the latest.

Free, open to all. 1-4 p.m. 2 Center St., Rutland.

Memory Tree Lighting

2:30 p.m.

Memory Tree Lighting Ceremony at Plymouth Community Center. All welcome to holiday gathering. A Christmas movie will be shown in the Activity Room at 2:30 p.m. Coffee, juice, tea, and cookies will be served. Plymouth Schoolhouse Childcare will be hope for children to play in the classroom; Historical Society will be open for visitors, too. Memory Tree Lighting at 4 p.m. 35 School Dr., Plymouth.

Woodstock Vermont Film Series

3 p.m.

8th annual Woodstock Vermont Film Series at Billings Farm & Museum features award-winning documentary “Kedi” at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Reservations strongly recommended at 802-457-2355, billingsfarm.org/filmfest. Tickets $9-$11. Vt. Route 12, Woodstock, 1/2 mile north of Village Green.

Kind Budd Sing-A-Long

3:30 p.m.

Kind Bud and Kitty hosts free community sing-a-long at West Rutland Town Hall, 35 Marble St., West Rutland. All welcome, free.

Open Swim

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.

Learn to Curl Clinic

5:45 p.m.

Upper Valley Curling Club holds Learn to Curl clinic at Barwood Arena, Highland Ave., White River Junction. $25, open to those age 12+. Equipment provided, wear warm clothes and non-skid shoes. Registration required at uppervalleycurling.org.

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.

Coed Hockey

6 p.m.

Rutland Cutting Edges Learn to Play instructional hockey sessions at Spartan Arena. No experience needed. Helmet with face shield, hockey gloves, hockey skates, hockey stick all required. Recommended elbow and shin pads. Equipment on loan is available. Sundays, Dec. 9, 16. Arrive 30 minutes early to suit up. $10/ session.

6 p.m.

KMS and KSC annual dinner and auction, Taste of Vermont. Spirit tasting and local fare celebrating Vermont’s finest products. Killington Grand Hotel. Details at killingtonmountainschool.org/auction.

Holiday Music Concert

ou rte sy of Pa ram oun t Thea tre

7 p.m.

Church of Our Saviour hosts guitarist/composer Peter Griggs in concert “Music For An Old English Christmas” performing a selection of traditional English music, including wassailing songs, Morris dances, and ballads. Free-will donation.

Reception with light refreshments follows. Info, 802-422-9064. 316 Mission Farm Rd., Killington.

FRIDAY, DEC. 15, 8 P.M.

PERCUSSION

Wednesday | December 27 | 2 & 7 PM Saturday | January 13 | 7:30 PM

Taste of Vermont

SCOTTY MCCREERY AT PARAMOUNT THEATRE

RECYCLED

The Promise is Hope

7:30 p.m.

The Promise is Hope, husband and wife duo, perform Christmas songs, and their own music at Brandon Music.

Tickets $20, $25 for pre-dinner.

Reservations at 802-247-4295.

62 Country Club Rd., Brandon. brandon-music.net.

C

Bikram Yoga **

DEC. 17

9 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Sundays: 9 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. 1.5 hr. Bikram hot; 11 a.m. inferno hot pilates. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

Killington Section GMC

9:30 a.m.

Killington Section Green Mountain Club outing: Shrewsbury Area. See what Mother Nature has in store, and choose a destination to fit. May need snowshoes. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Rutland’s Main Street Park, near firehouse, to carpool; or 10 a.m. at Shrewsbury Town Office, Cold River Rd. Details at 802-492-3573.

Christmas Weekend at Billings

10 a.m.

Christmas at the Farm weekends in December at Billings Farm & Museum.

A family Christmas story, trivia, animal programs, holiday food programs and activities. Daily activities 10 a.m.-4 p.m. billingsfarm.org. 802-457-2355.

69 Old River Rd., Woodstock.

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.

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.

PJ Library Chanukah Event

10:30 a.m.

PJ Library Chanukah event at Phoenix Books Rutland, 2 Center St., Rutland, hosted by Rutland Jewish Center. Free. Stories, craft project, music, snack. For children ages 3-8.

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.

The Nutcracker

1 p.m.

Experience the magic of the “The Nutcracker,” as dozens of area dance students come together to create this holiday classic live on stage at Paramount Theatre. Tickets $25-$35. 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. performances. paramountvt.org. 30 Center St., Rutland.

Restorative Yoga

4 p.m.

All levels with Louise Harrison. Louise@LouiseHarrison.com. 8 Mountain Top Rd., Chittenden. 802-747-8444.

Christmas Movie Screenings

4 p.m.

The Sparkle Barn shows Christmas movies in the loft Sundays at 4 p.m.

This week, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Free. 1509 US 7S., Wallingford.

MONDAY Bikram Yoga **

DEC. 18

6 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Mondays: 6 a.m. 1 hour Bikram hot yoga; 4 p.m. power flow; 5:30 p.m. Bikram hot yoga. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

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.

Open Swim

11:30 a.m.

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

10 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

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 Foley Cancer Center, conference room, 160 Allen St., Rutland. 802-747-3768 for more info.

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.

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.

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.

Tobacco Cessation Group

5 p.m.

Want to quit smoking but nothing works? Join the free tobacco cessation group. Free nicotine patches, gum or lozenges. Every Tuesday, 5-6 p.m. at Castleton Community Center, 2108 Main St., Castleton. 802-747-3768 for more info.

Holiday Film Showing

7 p.m.

Free film showing at Paramount Theatre, on the big screen, “National Lampoons’ Christmas Vacation.” 30 Center St., Rutland. paramountvt.org.

Christmas at the Grange

7:30 p.m.

A fun-filled evening of Christmas songs and Holiday Broadway hits at The Grange, Pomfret. Visit artistreevt.org for tickets and info. 65 Stage Rd., Pomfret.

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 Open Swim **

VT FARMERS MARKET CHRISTMAS FAIR

DEC. 19

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.

Bikram Yoga **

9 a.m.

Bikram Yoga holds classes Tuesdays: 9 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. Bikram yoga; 6:15 p.m. inferno hot pilates. 1360 US-4, Mendon. Info, 802-747-6300.

Gentle Flow Yoga

9:30 a.m.

All levels with Louise Harrison. Louise@LouiseHarrison.com. 8 Mountain Top Rd., Chittenden. 802-747-8444.

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.

Family Playgroup

10 a.m.

Rutland Co. Parent Child Center holds playgroup, at Mount Holly Town Library, Belmont. Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m. Informal gatherings for families who share a common thread of wanting a supportive experience for their child. For info, rcpcc.org.

Bone Builders

10 a.m.

Bone builders meets Thursdays at Roadside Chapel, 1680 Townline Rd, Rutland Town. Info, 802-773-4854.

Preschool Story Time

10:30 a.m.

Norman Williams Public Library holds 45-minute story time for kids ages 3-6 featuring three, thematically related books along with craft or activity reinforcing theme. 802-457-2295. 10 the Green, Woodstock.

Technology:

By Rob in Alb erti

Citizenship Classes

SATURDAY, DEC. 13, 9 A.M. Quit Smoking Group

5 p.m.

Is your goal to be tobacco free in 2017? Free quit smoking group in Castleton, Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. Work on the skills to stay tobacco free and receive free nicotine replacement products. Castleton Community Center, 2108 Main St., Castleton. Info, 802-747-3768.

Legion Bingo

6:15 p.m.

Brandon American Legion, Tuesdays. Warm ups 6:15 p.m., regular games 7 p.m. Open to the public. Bring a friend!

Public Meeting - Moose

6:30 p.m.

Vt. Fish & Wildlife Dept. holds public info meeting about Vermont’s moose at Billings Farm & Museum visitor center theater, 69 Old River Rd., Woodstock. Free, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Photos of moose and their habitat. Info about populations and moose study.

Beginner’s Yiddish Class

6:30 p.m.

Beginner’s Yiddish Class at Rutland Jewish Center with Stephen Kaufman (Rabba Kaya’s husband). All welcome. Prior knowledge of Yiddish not needed. Some familiarity with reading the Hebrew alphabet is recommended, though not required. Classes include conversation, music, grammar and discussions of Ashkenaz culture. Free. BYOB. 96 Grove St., Rutland.

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.

Climate change is not the only threat to society

continued from page 6 plished much more efficiently with artificial intelligence. Car problems are already diagnosed and even repaired by plugging a computer into one of the many computers in the car.

Speaking to the dangers of this “brave new world,” Bill Gates said in the Washington Post, “I don’t understand why some people are not concerned.”

Tesla’s Elon Musk said it is the greatest risk for civilization: “With artificial intelligence we are summoning the demon.”

We already see the middle class being hollowed out. Paradoxically, technology reduces the need for highly skilled workers. Among other reasons, this is why we see a fraction of the top 1 percent accumulating disproportionate wealth as the middle class slides into poverty. As demonstrated by the proposed federal tax reforms, the privileged have shown little concern for the less fortunate. Much has been made of achievement gaps, but it is the increasing wealth gap that poses the greater risk.

Noting that technological change

has always resulted in increased economic growth, President Obama’s artificial intelligence task force recommended embracing new cyber capabilities for their obvious benefits. The group’s recommendations, unfortunately, don’t match the scope of the problem; the mandatory recitation of STEM sound-bites is provided along with a laundry list of current safety net programs. These initiatives lack the scope and scale needed to deal with massive social, occupational and economic restructuring.

For our schools and our grandchildren, subject matter knowledge is essential but not enough. The tasks before us require a rebalancing of educational purposes. Educational reformers vacuously talk about high standards, the Common Core, standardized tests and accountability systems but ignore the most important requirement – which is, how we use these skills. It is to build a fairer and more democratic society.

It is hard to conceive of a stable society when huge proportions of

the people will essentially be jobless while total wealth continues to increase. Will we invent new ways of conceiving of the common wealth and how it will be allocated?

“No government is legitimate,” said philosopher of law Ron Dworkin, “that does not show equal concern for the fate of all those citizens over whom it claims dominion and from whom it claims allegiance.”

A society can exist only as long as it holds cooperative and mutually supporting values. As our nation was brought into a united set of states by the molding of a common ethos, we must restore the bonds of community. In a time of atomistic isolation, we must redefine our culture, and we must reform our government as well as our schools for the benefit, if not for the very lives, of our children and grandchildren.

William J. Mathis is the managing director of the National Education Policy Center and the vice-chair of the Vermont Board of Education.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 11

Music scene by dj dave hoffenberg

WEDNESDAY

DEC. 13 KILLINGTON 6 p.m. Liquid Art Open Mic

RUTLAND 9:30 p.m. The Venue Jenny Porter

[MUSIC Scene] RUTLAND

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

7 p.m. The Foundry Joey Leone Duo

7 p.m. Outback Pizza Kris Collett

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

8 p.m. Pickle Barrel Nightclub Nicolls Road

THURSDAY

DEC. 14 CASTLETON

7 p.m. Casella Theater A Star Has Burnt My Eye

KILLINGTON 7 p.m. Outback Pizza Andy Lugo

8 p.m. JAX Food & Games

Local Yokel Pass Party w/ Joey Leone Duo

MENDON 6 p.m. Red Clover Inn Jazz Trio

PITTSFIELD 7 p.m. Clear River Tavern Open Mic Jam

RUTLAND

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games Just Jamie

9 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub

7:30 p.m. Hop ‘n’ Moose

FRIDAY

DEC. 15 BARNARD

7 p.m. First Universalist Church 7th annual Winter Carols

KILLINGTON 4 p.m. The Foundry

11 a.m. Wild Fern

Nicolls Road

The Idiots

Re-opening party w/ Binger

7 p.m. Draught Room Duane Carleton

7:30 p.m. Hop ‘n’ Moose Ryan Fuller

9 p.m. Center Street Alley

10 p.m Bentley’s Restaurant

SATURDAY DEC. 16

BRANDON

7:30 p.m. Brandon Music Promise is Hope

KILLINGTON 4 p.m. Pickle Barrel Crow’s Nest Just Jamie

4 p.m. The Foundry Jordan Snow

5 p.m. Outback Pizza

Apres Ski Dance Party w/ DJ Dave

Just Jamie

7 p.m. The Foundry LUDLOW

TINMOUTH December Dance – Cabin Hunters w/ Don Stratton Calling

KILLINGTON

Blues Night w/ Joey Leone

7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre Brick Box

8 p.m. Community Center

DEC. 18

Green Brothers

7 p.m. The Wild Fern Bow Thayer

MONDAY

7 p.m. Pot Belly Pub

RUTLAND

STOCKBRIDGE

Cigar Box Brunch w/ Rick Redington

LUDLOW

9 p.m. Center Street Alley

John Thomas Band

STOCKBRIDGE

Rick Redington & The Luv

7 p.m. Salt Ash Inn

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

Open Mic w/ Chris Pallutto

8:30 p.m. Outback Pizza

8 p.m. Paramount Theatre

A Little Lunch Music

Rick Redington

8 p.m. Pickle Barrel Nightclub

McMurphys

PLYMOUTH

DJ Dirty D

The Sunnyland Blues Outfit

9:30 p.m. The Venue

Josh Jakab

Scotty McCreery

The Nutcracker

7:30 p.m. McGrath’s Irish Pub

8 p.m. Clear River Tavern

Dancing After Dark w/ DJ Chris Powers

7 p.m. The Wild Fern

7 p.m. Hide-A-Way Tavern

County Down

RUTLAND

SOUTH POMFRET

STOCKBRIDGE

7 p.m. O’Dwyer’s Public House

PITTSFIELD

WOODSTOCK

1 p.m. Artistree

1 p.m./6 p.m. Paramount Theatre

DJ Dave’s All Request Dance Party

9:30 p.m. The Hide-A-Way Tavern College Night w/ DJ Mega

Happy Hour w/ Tony Lee Thomas

6 p.m. Wobbly Barn

A Christmas Carol: Storytime DJ Mega

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

9:30 p.m. The Killarney Open Mic

RUTLAND 9:30 p.m. The Venue Krishna Guthrie

SOUTH POMFRET 7:30 p.m. Grange Theatre Christmas at the Grange

WOODSTOCK 8 p.m. Bentley’s Restaurant Open Mic w/ Brian Warren

Karaoke 101 w/ Tenacious T

WOODSTOCK

TUESDAY

7 p.m. Bentley’s Restaurant

DEC. 19

John Lackard Blues Band

10 p.m Bentley’s Restaurant

Dancing After Dark w/ DJ Andraudy

CASTLETON

7 p.m. Casella Theater

Castleton University Jazz Ensemble

SUNDAY

DEC. 17 KILLINGTON

5 p.m. Outback Pizza Live Music

5 p.m. The Foundry

Jazz Night w/ The Summit Pond Quartet

9 p.m. JAX Food & Games

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

Local’s Night w/ Duane Carleton

Green Mountain Party: Breaking the two-party system continued from page 6 years ago we were 25% and 30% cheaper than today. It’ll be easy when citizens work together, and we ignore the lobbyists.

4) Drugs Our approach has failed on almost every attempt.

We need a concerted focus, multipronged strategy to get this scourge from ruining our society further. Crack babies being born every day in Vermont is just something that doesn’t work for anyone.

5) Jobs We have a climate that is not conducive or friendly toward business development and growth. We need a good education for our citizens. We need business education.

6) Schools We can do better, and for far less money, the state is

gutting our communities and taking control or our towns. Lobbyists have the most power in our state.

We can provide a quality college education for 70% less than the universities through use of state certified college-level educators and community building use.

7) Homes Our current regulatory climate is abusive to anyone earning an average wage. We can efficiently provide an affordable house for less than $600 per month, the cost to rent a studio apartment. Three bedrooms, 1000 sq.ft., six homes to an acre. We only have to allow and encourage it. No subsidies and no tax money are needed, just a willing heart.

Regular politicians will tell you

this is the most important election coming up. We’ll suggest you’ll get more of the same, next year and the year after. Want our system to change? Help us organize in your town so we can be a significant party in 2018. It only takes 3-4 people and about 15 minutes.

Does this interest you? Please help us come to your town. We need more towns organized

by January 1st, 2018. We’ll suggest you’ll get more of the same if continue down our current path.

Help change Vermont in a positive direction. Contact us now at 802496-4470 or info@greenmountainparty.com Neil Johnson, Waitsfield

12 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

• SUDOKU

• MOVIE TIMES

• CROSSWORD

• MOVIE DIARY

just for fun the MOVIE diary

SUDOKU

A disaster waiting to happen

By Dom Cioffi

Each block is divided by its own matrix of nine cells. The rule for solving Sudoku puzzles are very simple. Each row, column and block, must contain one of the numbers from “1” to “9”. No number may appear more than once in any row, column, or block.

When you’ve filled the entire grid the puzzle is solved.

This week’s solution is on page 31

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CLUES ACROSS 1. Large jug 5. Anwar __, Egyptian statesman 10. Punjab province capital 12. Evoke 14. Data 16. Exists 18. Supervises flying 19. Having eight 20. Right-handed page 22. NHL great Bobby 23. German municipality 25. Negotiate 26. Keyboard key 27. Youngster 28. Medical decision (abbr.)

30. Ribonucleic acid 31. One-time Levi’s chairman Walter 33. Cold region 35. Type of plywood 37. A way to unfreeze 38. Winter melon 40. Dispute 41. An expression of imagination 42. Human gene 44. Touch lightly 45. Computer giant 48. Garlands 50. Franz van __, German diplomat 52. Vineyard 53. Elk or moose 55. Moved quickly 56. Swiss river 57. Rhode Island 58. Fall into disrepair 63. Ancient Roman virtue 65. Removes 66. Slovenly women 67. Comedian Rogen

CLUES DOWN 1. Extremely high frequency 2. Court 3. Make a mistake 4. Change the appearance of 5. Long-haired dog 6. The Greatest of All Time 7. Designer Christian 8. Blemished 9. Atlanta-based rapper 10. Deceivers 11. One who supports disorder 13. Colossal 15. A team’s best pitcher 17. Comfort in a time of sadness 18. Opponent 21. Professionals might need one 23. Captures geographical data (abbr.)

24. Senior officer 27. Sacred Islamic site 29. Egyptian unit of capacity 32. Comedienne Gasteyer 34. Performer __ Lo Green 35. Having only magnitude, not direction 36. Cleft lip 39. Payroll company 40. Prohibit 43. Stroke 44. Does not acknowledge 46. Hillsides 47. Austrian river 49. Passover feast and ceremony 51. Golf score 54. Hair-like structure 59. Check 60. Extract metal from this 61. Tell on 62. Powdery residue 64. A part of the mind

Solutions on page, 31

Throughout my high school years, there was one kid who stood out for his brains. Appropriately, his name was Eugene (although he would throw a fit if you called him anything other than Gene).

Gene was head and shoulders above the rest of us in terms of intellect. Unfortunately, he didn’t have much else, having come from a fairly poor family, which limited his social endeavors. Gene also sported Coke bottle thick glasses and greasy hair that did little to enhance his already geekish looks.

Nevertheless, Gene earned a full scholarship to an Ivy-level college and dusted as soon as we graduated from high school. Four years later, Gene returned to our hometown (along with the rest of us) to figure out what his next life move would be.

At the time, my friends and I had a pathetic little garage band, which was basically an excuse to party together. One day, Gene showed up with a guitar in hand and asked to join in. Within minutes of seeing him again, every preconceived idea I had was washed away.

Gene now had long, flowing, shoulder-length hair and was dressed in a casual style not unlike a late-60s poet/hippy. He also sported contact lenses that allowed his shiny blue eyes to stand out. When he pulled out his guitar and started to play, we all stood mesmerized. “When did this happen?” we all thought.

I remember being completely taken aback by his physical transformation and the level of expertise he displayed on the guitar. But I was really blown away when he started to play his own material. Song after song was layered with catchy melodies and interesting chord progressions – far from the basic stuff we were all playing.

After that, I started to occasionally play with Gene on the side, curious to learn some of his songs and pick up whatever tips I could. I’d often ask how he learned to play so well, but his answers were always cryptic and unenlightening. “I just try to let the songs in my head flow out through my fingers,” he would say.

One day, Gene showed up at my house and asked if I was busy the following Tuesday. He had secured a spot at a small underground club to play a one-hour set and wanted to know if I was interested in accompanying him on rhythm guitar.

I had never played in front of a real audience and had zero confidence in my abilities so I wasn’t eager to try it. But after some coercion and reassurance, I agreed. Truth be known, I think Gene just needed a ride to the venue and I had reliable transportation.

Regardless, we headed up that next week and trucked our guitars into a small, dingy pub whose stage was no bigger than two beach towels stuck

THE DISASTER ARTIST

together.

There couldn’t have been more than five to seven people in the bar that night but Gene played like it was a packed house. At times I thought he was theatrically over-the-top; in other moments he seemed to be a genuine talent.

We both left the club that night jazzed by the experience. And I can honestly say that I was inspired to become a better guitar player, even thinking that tagging along for a few club dates now and then might be a fun way to make some extra cash.

However, some weeks later, Gene informed me that he was leaving town – saying he was heading to the big city to make his mark. He left and I didn’t hear from him for years.

When we did reconnect via Facebook, Gene was a different person again. He was no longer interested in music and instead had become a political sociopath. Gene trusted no one and was certain that government conspiracies were behind every ill of the world.

He would write me long-winded manifestos about the end of democracy and the infiltration of evil forces.

I marveled once again at his boundless intellect, but also grew concerned that he was becoming mentally unhinged.

And then one day Gene was dead, succumbing to a cancer that he never bothered mentioning.

I miss that odd duck and how interesting he made my life at times, and often wonder what he may have become had life pulled him in a different direction.

This week’s film, “The Disaster Artist” starring brothers James and Dave Franco, details another odd character who wandered into Hollywood in the late 1990’s and proceeded to write, direct and star in what is widely believed to be the worst motion picture ever created.

The bizarre story of Tommy Wiseau is about to become mainstream. His film, “The Room,” can only be understood by watching.

If you’re interested, check out the available clips on YouTube to get a taste. Then go see this film to get a better understanding of this strange and oddly remarkable individual.

A quixotic “B+” for “The Disaster Artist.”

Got a question or comment for Dom? You can email him at moviediary@att.net.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 13

n o i g e R e h T ’ R ock i n Rockin’ the region with Kris Collett Kris Collett makes his winter Kilwhat to do. I was given homework and lington debut this Friday, Dec. 15 at 7 realized that I was awful at it and was p.m. at Outback Pizza. I first saw Collett just wasting my money. Eventually, I when he sang at the Paramount Theatre figured out that any song I want to learn back in August as part of the 802: U2 how to play, I can learn online.” He also All Star Band Tribute to U2’s “Joshua learned a lot from watching and playing Tree,” album. He sang “Red Hill Mining at open mics. It was there that he got to Town” and meet musicians like Jeff Poremski, Jared that’s when Johnson and the late Steve Audsley. All I discovered three of them taught him and encourrockin’ his amazing aged him to play. His very first open mic the region voice. At the was at Pub 42 with Robby Smolinkski. by dj dave Outback, He then migrated to Center Street Alley hoffenberg he’ll be to Audsley’s infamous open mic on doing his Wednesdays. Audsley later invited him acoustic to play a gig together. show. I had the pleasure of speaking Some of Collett’s musical influences with him to learn more about him and include The Beatles, Rolling Stones, his music.

Pennywise, Black Flag and NOFX. ColCollett describes his show as “bluesy lett said, “I like a wide variety of music, rock,” but he mixes in modern covers pretty much anything but country. and classic rock, as well. His first choice There’s good and bad from all genres.” is to do his own music, which he says he The music that he prefers to jam out gets a great response to. to is his own. He said, “I have the most The only music he experienced in his fun playing my own stuff. I’m into it, it’s youth was when he was 8 years old and my own emotions. Everything is mine.” took a few piano lessons, but he never Collett starting writing music as soon pursued it. Collett grew up in Clarendon as he started playing it. He said, “The and graduated from Mill River High thing is, if I go back to when I was 8 years School. One day he told his daughter to old or in my teens, I can remember monot give up on her dreams. It was then ments of when I would wake up in the he realized that he had night with my toes tap“I COULDN’T always wanted to play ping to some melody guitar, but had never stuck in my head. I REALLY TELL HER done it. It’s a passion of don’t know where it TO FOLLOW HER his that he wanted to came from, but it’s pursue, and he knew there.” It wasn’t until DREAM WITHOUT that he had to lead by six years ago that he NEVER TRYING example. He said, “I made those moments couldn’t really tell her a reality and started MINE. SO I PICKED to follow her dream writing songs. In that UP THE GUITAR without never trying short time, he’s written mine. So I picked up about 40 songs.

AND STARTED the guitar and started Collett is now in the PLAYING,” playing.” process of making his It was just six years first album, which he COLLETT SAID. ago that he started hopes to release in his music profession. He said, “At that the spring. This Monday, he goes into point, I picked it up pretty quick.” A the studio with Jeff Poremski to get that month in, he was doing open mics; and started. He talked about his songs, and a few months later he was asked to join said, “Most of the time I write about his first band, Loose Change. They prac- personal experiences. Things that are ticed for about a year and then started either past, present or future. Maybe playing gigs. He did about 30 gigs with it would be a night with a girlfriend.” them before the band broke up. Then he That last part led to a song: “The Gypsy moved on.

Love of My Esteban.” It will be featured His first-ever solo gig was at Center on his album. Not only is a great song Street Bar in Brandon. He said the show to listen to, but it has a great story that went well and he’s never really had a goes along with it. Collett explained. “I bad gig, but added, “I’m still learning. was seeing this girl and she asked me I’ve got a lot to learn, especially in the why she always had to come over to my entertainment aspect. I’ve always been apartment? I didn’t really have an anhard on myself.” swer at that moment, but I realized that Once he started doing the solo acous- she didn’t have a guitar at her house. I tic gig, each show was like a practice had this cheap Esteban that I picked session for his guitar playing and singup at a pawn shop. I brought it to her ing. He took a few lessons on guitar but house and left it there and then started laughingly said, “I don’t like to be told hanging out at her place more. She and

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KRIS COLLETT I broke up, and then later on I was dating Collett’s favorite thing about playanother girl and she asked me the same ing live is the audience interaction. question. I knew the answer at that He explained, “I especially like when point. I looked around my apartment they’re into it. I was playing at the Hop and realized I had half a dozen guitars of ‘n’ Moose one time and there were two mine, plus some guitars of friends who reunions going on. One group was singleft them around. The idea of ‘Gypsy ing every song; in fact, a lot of times I Love of My Esteban’ popped into my couldn’t hear myself over them singing. head, so I wrote a song about it. One Good times — it was fun. They were of my friends leaves his Esteban at his requesting songs and some I didn’t even girlfriend’s house because of that song. know how to play, but I was just having I influenced somebody [laughing].” a blast.”

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14 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

news briefs

By Lani Duke

Western Rutland County towns win planning grants The state Department of Housing and Community Development gave the town of Fair Haven $16,000 of the $20,000 it had requested to hire a consultant to plan downtown street improvements that will lead to increased economic activity in Fair Haven’s downtown. Although Fair Haven has a historic Designated Village Center, that area is far from U.S. Route 4; attracting tourists who might otherwise pass by on the highway is difficult.

Specific actions planned to meet that objective include calming traffic in the downtown so that traffic flows smoothly and attracts more tourism; beautifying the downtown so that it is more walkable and has greater esthetic value, and developing businesses that the town can support while stemming retail leak. Jonas Rosenthal, interim town manager for Fair Haven, is the grant administrator.

As part of the same grant round, Poultney and West Haven each received $8,000 also.

Poultney’s grant is to identify the types of business needed to maintain an active and vital mixture of downtown shops and services; West Haven’s, for preparing a comprehensive and relevant town plan. Both grants are being overseen by Elysa Smigielski of the Rutland Regional Planning Commission.

This year, the state awarded more than $460,000 to 37 municipalities for FY18 municipal planning grant projects.

Green Mountain students give back to Poultney community POULTNEY—Green Mountain College students celebrated the school’s fifth annual Thanks and Giving Day Nov. 14, beginning with breakfast at Poultney United Methodist Church.

More than 236 student volunteers eager to help meet needs in the larger Poultney community spent their day raking leaves, pulling out invasive

plant species, maintaining trails, working on a rain garden at Poultney High, and picking up garbage. After lunch at St. Raphael’s Catholic Church, they learned to make chap sticks and learned about Abenaki culture. Their day ended with dinner in the GMC Withey Dining Hall, and learning casual Latin dance.

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If you have a problem with domestic violence, sexual violence or child abuse you can get help! These organizations offer FREE and CONFIDENTIAL assistance 24 hours a day, EVERY day. You don’t need to suffer alone. Ask for help!

LOCAL HELP The Rutland County Women’s Network and Shelter is dedicated to assisting survivors of domestic and sexual violence. www.rcws.org 24-hour hotline : 802-775-3232 Free & Confidential STATEWIDE HELP The Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is committed to eradicating domestic and sexual violence through advocacy, empowerment and social change. www.vtnetwork.com 24-hour Hotlines Domestic Violence: 1-800-228-7395 Sexual Violence: 1-800-489-7273 NATIONAL HELP Stop It Now!® prevents the sexual abuse of children by mobilizing adults, families and communities to take actions that protect children before they are harmed. www.stopitnow.com 24 hour hotline: 1-888-PREVENT

Regional policing pilot program beginning Tinmouth, Middletown Springs, Ira, and Danby have agreed to participate in a regional policing pilot program with the Rutland County Sheriff Department, Tinmouth Town Clerk Gail Fallar announced through Front Porch Forum. Under the agreement, the towns pool their hours, with one deputy assigned to the four towns together.

Pooling results in a patrol once a day or more often under ordinary circumstances, and call response that covers far more hours each week than each town could access individually.

An oversight board will meet regularly, discussing each town’s needs and whether its areas of concern are covered. These towns are part of the 911

emergency network. A call to 911 will bring either a sheriff representative or the Vermont State Police if no one is available from the sheriff’s office.

Non-emergency calls can be answered at the sheriff’s office at 802775-8002; a caller can learn when a deputy will be able to respond, or have the call transferred to VSP.

Regulations change with winter snow season

Castleton alums scaling new heights Castleton grad Dustin Dattilio’s painting “Morning Thunder” may well turn up in your mail box, chosen as the 2018 National Wild Turkey Federation Stamp Print of the Year. Sales of the annual stamp, sold for $5, raise money for turkey habitat management and restoration.

Castleton alum Sky Barsch has moved to New York City where she

is advertising director at The Nation.

The publication describes itself as “a critical, independent voice in American journalism and a platform for investigative reporting and spirited debate on issues to the progressive community.”

Founded in 1865 by abolitionists, the weekly has a circulation of just under 150,000.

West Pawlet Pink Boot Farm preserved WEST PAWLET—The Vermont Land Trust recently helped Mike and Hadley Stock buy the 80-acre farm they had been renting in West Pawlet. Previous property owners Beth Moser-Duquette and Chris Moser had conserved the property with VLT after inheriting it from their mother.

The Moser estate provided short-term owner financing to help the Stocks acquire the property. As the Stocks build their business and refinance the loan, they will receive assistance from the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board’s Farm and Forest Viability Program.

The property, purchased by the Moser family in 1993, had been used for raising sheep and pigs, as well as hunting and foraging in the woodland. In addition to cliffs, it contains wetlands that are connected by a small stream, with waters that flow into Wells Brook and eventually Lake Champlain. To protect water quality, the Stocks are fencing animals away from wetlands and planning to build a manure composting site with aid from the Vermont Department of Agriculture. As a conserved property, the farm cannot be developed for commercial or industrial uses but will remain open for agriculture, forestry, and wildlife.

Mike Stock picks up whey from local cheesemakers to feed the pigs at Pink Boot Farm. The pastured pigs are sold to restaurants around the Mettowee Valley.

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FAIR HAVEN—Now that winter is upon us, be a bit more careful where you park.

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Snow plow drivers have enough to watch for without having to work around vehicles.

Also, make sure to keep “roadside items” away from the edges of town highways before snow falls, Fair Haven Interim Town Manager Jonas Rosenthal advises.

Another thing to remember about snow: don’t plow or shovel snow onto or across a public highway, leaving snow on the road surface. If you do, you may be fined, jailed, or liable for damages that may occur as a result.

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NEWS BRIEFS

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 15

By Lani Duke

Neighboring to improve Northwest Rutland RUTLAND—Bill Gilliam spoke at the Dec. 4 aldermen’s meeting, inviting Rutland’s mayor, police chief, and members of the Board of Aldermen to join him and other Northwest neighborhood residents to a meeting about the next steps for that quadrant of the city. The Dec. 14 meeting will be in St. Anne’s Hall, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 18 Lincoln Ave. Gilliam said the casual neighbor-to-neighbor meeting is intended to bring neighbors together and develop a sense of camaraderie before determining the next steps for improving the neighborhood. He believes neighbors are impressed by improvements on Cleveland Avenue and Baxter Street and feel the neighborhood is moving in the right direction, according to the Rutland Herald.

Bill and his wife Charlie set up the meeting after Habitat for Humanity officials spoke with him about the possibility of developing more projects near the recently completed project on Cleveland Avenue, perhaps on southern Baxter Avenue, and Water Street as well as more on Cleveland Avenue.

Neighbors have been talking about how to do more in the neighborhood, he commented, especially people who own homes that are in poor shape. Gilliam said the Habitat representatives have indicated that there is an opportunity to do so.

Although he appreciates the way the city and Project Vision have worked to improve the Northwest neighborhood, Gilliam said he hopes the meeting will empower Northwest residents to take their own action.

Some of the action may be finding funding sources.

Mail your letters to Santa on West Street RUTLAND—Rutland Youth Theatre members chipped in to decorate a defunct mailbox found in the basement of the U.S. Post Office building so that children may deposit their letters to Santa in the old letter drop. Letters dropped in the box will be sent to a post office in Alaska.

Although putting a stamp on the envelope may help an individual submission reach its destination more quickly, all deposited mail will reach its destination and will trigger a return letter from Santa, postmarked from the North Pole, wrote Patrick McArdle in the Rutland Herald.

To help Santa out, make sure there is a good, legible return address on the letter to Santa and allow enough time for the letter to reach Santa’s drop zone in Anchorage, AK, as well as for a return to reach the letter writer. Rutland Postmaster James Ragosta said the mail box will remain in place through Dec. 22, the Friday before Christmas.

Route 4 construction moved a year WEST RUTLAND—Vermont Agency of Transportation Senior Manager Robert Faley announced that AOT has combined paving on Route 4A (Business Route 4 between Rutland town and West Rutland) and Route 133 in West Rutland into a single project to get a lower, single-bid price on the combined three-mile stretch. The work is being postponed from 2018 to 2019, he told the Rutland Herald.

The two towns seem no closer to reaching agreement on whether the road should continue as a four-

lane highway, or trim down to two lanes of traffic with a middle turning lane. Rutland town’s Select Board seems to favor the fourlane approach, while West Rutland has expressed interest in viewing drawings that depict the intersections and changes.

Rutland town Select Board chair Joshua Terenzini said his board objects to losing the four lanes of traffic, citing safety concerns. However, the Rutland town board would like to increase bike paths and beautification in the corridor between the two communities.

Sports dome deployment doubtful CASTLETON—Budget concerns have caused Castleton University officials to say that the 320-foot inflatable dome, a gift from Middlebury College, may not be installed next to Spartan Arena in Rutland Town, Castleton Athletic Director Deanna Tyson told the Rutland Herald. Former school President David Wolk had told the faculty that the dome was dead at a recent meeting.

Tyson confirmed that prognosis, saying it appears the dome may be gone for good, before noting that the college’s new president, Karen

Scolforo, who started work Dec. 4, scheduled a meeting with the athletic department her first day on the job.

Without the dome, athletic programs at Castleton may be handicapped. Head track and field coach Dave Heitkamp has claimed the dome is the key piece needed for the future of his program. The dome would also enhance training during other programs’ off-season and provide a home for track and field equipment, thereby opening up gymnasium space.

Were the dome not erected behind

Diamond Run Mall, athletic interests would like to see it on the college campus, an alternative that Tyson said she considers a possibility. However, the 47-foot-tall dome would violate the town’s height restriction.

The dome seemed close to being erected several times. The $1 million structure was announced to be on its way to Castleton in 2013. Several times its inflation seemed imminent, but each time, an obstacle appeared. Regardless, track athletes have very little room to practice.

Rutland region , page 16

1 in 100,000 Orthopaedic Event Takes Coordinated Care “After a fall in my home, I left town to attend a wedding in Minnesota. A few days later, I realized it was more than a bruise and I had totally shattered my hip replacement. I trusted my Doctor, Eric Marsh from Vermont Orthopaedic Clinic enough that I decided to come home and be treated.

Everything went very smoothly – from the surgery to recovery with physical and occupational therapy.

We are fortunate to have a facility like Rutland Regional Medical Center right in our community.

It has allowed me to regain my strength and get back to the activities I enjoy.”

Jeff Wallin, Brandon, Vermont

3 Albert Cree Drive, Rutland, VT 802.775.2937 | www.vermontorthoclinic.org

16 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

Poultney Chamber names officers, board of directors

By Janice Edwards

At the recent Christmas Dinner and Annual Meeting of Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce, the 2018 Officers and Board of Directors were voted upon by the membership and are unanimously approved.

Out-going President, Jen Miller of Miller Signs & Tees, “passed the President’s gavel” to Brenda Cyr of Brenda’s Hidden Treasures. Thank you to Jen for her contributions to the Chamber during her tenure as President.

– and “welcome” to Brenda for accepting the leadership role.

Additional officers and members of the board of directors for 2018 voted upon and approved include: Vice-President: Frank Sears of Phil’s Mill and Welsh Presbyterian Church Secretary: Paula Donaldson of Kinney Pike Insurance Treasurer: Mary Lee Harris of Poultney Snow Devils Directors: Sharon Kendall of People’s Bank, Kathy Hutson of Young At Heart Senior Center Judy Leech of Lakes Region Radio (WNYV FM 94.1 * WVNR AM 1340) 2 additional directors are needed All officers and board members are volunteers as are also all businesses who assist with yearly events to ensure success.

New business members are always welcome and are encouraged to join.

Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a nonprofit organization of businesses whose mission is to work together to strengthen our region’s business community.

For additional information about Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce, one may contact the Chamber by telephone at (802) 287-2010, at their office in the Stonebridge building on Beaman Street, or by their email: poultneyvtchamber@gmail.com. Their website is www.poultneyvt.com and they also have a Facebook page at facebook.com/poultneyareachamberofcommerce/.

LOCAL NEWS : News Briefs continued from page 15

Police continue outreach

RUTLAND—An outreach meeting Nov. 28 between Rutland city police and individuals from the Southeast neighborhood drew 13 local residents, five members of the city police force and a dog, Sgt. Keith Lorman told the Rutland Herald. Participants related their concern about traffic at the intersection of Hickory and Forest streets.

Motorists run the stop sign; they also do not stop when school buses are loading and unloading.

Lorman said there had been no stop sign at the corner but now there is. He promised that he or another officer would try to be in the area when the bus stops.

A similar meeting for residents of the Northeast and Southeast neighborhoods is planned for Dec. 7 in Conference Room C, Rutland Regional Medical Center.

Entrepreneur withdraws storage permit application WALLINGFORD—Michael Lazar withdrew his application to build a self-storage facility at 30 Haven Hill Road in Wallingford before it reached a public hearing.

He had intended to build a three-structure, 125-unity facility in a rural residence/agriculture-zoned district, with a conditional-use permit and zoning variances.

Chip Gottlieb, a resident on Haven Hill Road who led opposition to the application, told the Rutland Herald that he spoke with Lazar Dec. 4, and that the entrepreneur was shocked at the level of opposition. Gottlieb had support from 15 of the other 17 homeowners on Haven Hill Road, who formed Friends of Haven Hill Road and hired a pair of environmental attorneys to oppose the project. To Gottlieb, and apparently to the others who joined the organization, the facility was not a good match for the neighborhood, where the only other business up the road is a dairy farm.

Lazar owns AG Storage in Charlotte. He is building a similar self-storage facility in Johnson and recently cleared the way to build another one in St. Johnsbury.

He said he would not have attempted the permitting process if he had known he would need a variance or that “neighbors would feel unreasonably impacted.”

Hickory Street housing nearing completion

RUTLAND—The Phase III units at Hickory Street Apartments will be ready for showings and renter applications in March or April, Rutland Housing Authority Executive Director Kevin Loso told the Rutland Herald.

Tenants for the 22 new residences will be able to move in June 1.

This housing complex project has occurred in three phases and is nine years in the making, replacing the now-obliterated Forest Park public housing project in southwest Rutland. A study in 2000 had determined the 46-year-old complex had deteriorated beyond repair, Loso said.

Burlington-based Housing Vermont put together the funding for Hickory Street. Funders included TD Bank and People’s United Bank, using the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits program. The package also relied on energy efficiency grants for appliances, building envelopes, lighting, and wood-pellet boilers, as well as a Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston grant and aid from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board and Vermont Community Development.

Built on a 10-acre parcel, the project is designed like a real neighborhood with duplexes and multifamily buildings lining the street. Phase III completes Hickory Street from Forest Street through to Granger Street. Hickory Street will be adopted by the city as a city street. Juneberry Lane, a small circle off Hickory Street, will remain a private way. Three more house lots remain available and may see Habitat for Humanity homes constructed there.

The Phase III multifamily building recognizes the need for smaller units to house singles and seniors.

Integrated into the larger neighborhood, Hickory Street is no longer densely populated. It has a more diverse socioeconomic spread, Housing Vermont President Nancy Owens commented.

Apartment rents are tiered and based on unit size and household income, which must fall between 30 and 80 percent of median income for the Rutland area and household size.

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The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 17

FOLA Christmas Celebration highlights community

Courtesy of Pentangle Arts

JUDY COLLINS

Judy Collins returns to Woodstock for holiday concert that speaks to the heart Wednesday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m.— WOODSTOCK—Long-time music icon Judy Collins will perform her “Holidays and Hits” concert at the Woodstock Town Hall Theater, Wednesday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m.

Judy Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 50-album body of work, and heed inspira-

tion from her spiritual discipline to thrive in the music industry for half a century.

Collins is as creatively vigorous as ever, writing, touring worldwide, and nurturing fresh talent.

She is a modern day Renaissance woman who is also an accomplished painter, filmmaker, record label head, musical mentor, and an in-demand keynote speaker for mental health and suicide prevention. She continues to create music of hope and healing that lights up the world and speaks to the heart.

Reserved seating for the Woodstock show is $55 plus tax. Woodstock Town Hall Theater is located at 31 Green, Woodstock. For information and tickets, visit pentanglearts.org.

DEC.

13

Friday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.—LUDLOW—Friends of the Ludlow Auditorium (FOLA) will bring the sights and sounds of the holiday season to the Ludlow Town Hall Auditorium with its annual Community Christmas Celebration on Friday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.

George Thomson will once again emcee this night of holiday performances by the members of the community. Claudia Pawlikowski will lead students from the Ludlow Elementary School and the Mount Holly Elementary School in Christmas songs and dance. Katherine Herrle and the Black River High School/Middle School will also perform a variety of holiday music.

In addition to the student performances, the three ghosts from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” will contemplate their roles before haunting Scrooge in a short comedic skit; and talented members of the community will sing a few traditional songs, poignant readings of holiday poems, and a special performance of “The Christmas Truce,” which examines the aftermath of the famous World War I Christmas cessation of hostilities by the soldiers in the trenches. The evening will close with a rousing sing-along of traditional Christmas songs.

Come and enjoy this celebration that will feature friends and neighbors, including: Kay Burge, Bruce Farr, Will Hunter, Lisha Klaiber, Bob Kottkamp, Andy Ohotnicky, Sandra Russo, Scott Stearns, Linda Thomson, Rolf van Schaik, and Larry Wilfong.

For more information, contact 802-228-3238 or visit fola.us. The Community Christmas Celebration is free and open to everyone of good cheer.

Join BarnArts for Winter Carols Friday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.—BARNARD— BarnArts presents its 7th annual Winter Carols at Barnard’s First Universalist Church, Route 12 in Barnard. Winter Carols is BarnArts’ original event and a highlight of its winter programming.

The evening’s musical performances and adult and youth choral performances are directed

by Michael Zsoldos.

Don’t miss this festive opportunity to join with neighbors and friends and celebrate the season as a community. Winter Carols includes audience sing-alongs as well as instrumental and choral performances. The event is free for the community, but donations are welcome to support ongoing programming.

Audubon Society seeks bird watchers for annual count at year end PROCTOR—The Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count is an annual tradition in Rutland County and across the country, on Dec. 30. Join Rutland County Audubon in the field, or contact the group to see if you live within the count circle and would like to count birds at your feeder. The day winds up with a potluck supper and a countdown of the day’s birds at 6 p.m. at the Proctor Library. Bring a dish to share (beverages and utensils provided). Contact birding@rutlandcountyaudubon.org to join the event.

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Over 60+ local crafters and producers offering great gifts and items for your holiday shopping needs! Free admission! Over 100+ vendors at two Rutland locations in one day to get great local items for the holidays!

When you choose the VFM, you’re not just buying local products, but enjoying local stories, local connections, and well-being for one and all in this wonderful community we call home!

The Christmas Holiday Show will run during regular Farmers Market hours: Saturdays 10a.m.-2p.m. @ the Vermont Farmers Food Center, 251 West St.

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LIVING A.D.E.

18 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

Gift-of-Life Marathon Blood Drive Dec. 20 - Castleton University Dec. 21 and 22 – Holiday Inn

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, GIVE MORE LIFE! Sponsored by : Green Mountain Power Castleton University Mix 98.1-WJJR

Call 800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org for an appointment.

“Vermont Wild” author to visit Rutland Saturday, Dec. 16, 1 p.m.—RUTLAND—On Saturday, Dec. 16 from 1-4 p.m., Phoenix Books Rutland will host a meet-and-greet and book signing with Megan Price, the author of the popular “Vermont Wild” series featuring tales from the state’s fish and game wardens. Price will personalize a copy of the new “Vermont Wild Volume #5” for the hunter or wildlifewatcher in your life.

A former award-winning journalist and Vermont legislator, Price has been called a folklore artist for her ability to breathe life into little known, true tales of the Green Mountains as told by those who lived them. “The books are a working man’s history,” Price said.

Price gives credit to the retired game wardens who share their adventures with her, putting their names and photos in the books.

“I’m always looking for more

wardens, more deputies, more good stories, from any state. I want to save good stories and share them,” she said. “The older fellows tend to have the best stories!”

Whether confronting moose, rescuing raccoons, training reluctant tracking dogs or searching for clues to catch clever poachers, Price’s true tales of our North Woods resonate with all ages, tourists as well as Vermont natives. The “Wild” books are taken to hunting camp, taught in middle and high schools to encourage children to read and write their own stories, read out loud in nursing homes and mailed world wide to those who love Vermont.

Phoenix Books Rutland is located at 2 Center St. in Rutland. Copies of “Vermont Wild” volumes 1-5 will be available. For more information, visit phoenixbooks.biz.

Courtesy of Phoenix Books

“Vermont Wild” has reached its fifth volume, continuing its popularity among locals and visitors alike.

Snowy owls get their day at VINS — What’s not to appreciate?

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Learn about — and meet up close and in person — snowy owls during a day totally dedicated to the raptor, at VINS.

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L ng Trail

Route 4 between Killington & Pico • The McGrath Family Innkeepers Since 1977

Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m.— QUECHEE—Harry Potter had the best pet owl, right? Join VINS as they explore the frosty world of the snowy owl on Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn how they survive the harshness of the Arctic and how unique they are compared to other owls. Plus, visitors will have the chance to view resident male and female snowy owls on exhibit.

Programs throughout the day include: Snowy Owl Biofacts in the pavilion all day; making snowy owl-themed crafts in the classroom, all day; Snowy Owl Chat in the enclosure at 10:30

a.m.; Outstanding Owls in the pavilion at 11 a.m.; Nature Documentary at noon in the pavilion; FeederWatch at 1 p.m. in the Crawl Space; Raptor Chats at 1:30 p.m. in the enclosures; Predators of the Sky at 2 p.m. in the Pavilion; Raptor Feeding Time at 2:45 p.m. in the bald eagle enclosure; and Snowy Owl Chat at 3:15 p.m. in the enclosure, where guests can meet the resident owls.

All programs are included in admission. For more information, visit vinsweb.org or call 802-359-5000. VINS is located at 6565 Woodstock Road., Quechee.

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802-775-7181

Irish Pub

DELICIOUS PUB MENU WITH AN IRISH FLAVOR Killington’s first and foremost Irish pub

Guinness, Harp, Smithwick’s & Long Trail

Open: Friday-Sunday at 6 p.m

LIVE IRISH MUSIC Friday & Saturday December 15th & 16th • 7:30 p.m.

MCMURPHYS OPEN MON-THUR AT 3 P.M. FRI,SAT & SUN AT 11 A.M.

Courtesy of Brandon Music

THE PROMISE IS HOPE

Brandon Music welcomes The Promise Is Hope Saturday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.—BRANDON—Ashley and Eric L’Esperance first felt the electricity of their undeniable chemistry at an impromptu song swap.

A year-and-a-half later they were married and, as the duo The Promise Is Hope, they released a debut album :“Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going.” They perform at Brandon Music Saturday, Dec. 16 and as a special seasonal treat, will add a few of their favorite Christmas songs to the program in celebration of the holidays.

The Promise Is Hope has earned a place among New England’s finest emerging indie-folk duos. Their live performances are often described as beautifully moving, inspired, and connected.

With great songwriting, the duo’s music explores the mysteries of love, spirituality, and the joys and struggles of life’s journey. They won two 2017 Worcester Music Awards and a nomination for 2017 Best of Central Massachusetts “Best Entertainer.” They were invited to perform at the 2017 Connecticut Folk Festival, and have

shared the stage with national performers such as Gaelynn Lea. They have captured the hearts of listeners in hundreds of crowds all over New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and are currently writing material for a sophomore album set for release in early 2018.

The duo’s music marries two distinctly talented songwriters. Ashley’s soft fingerpicking style lies comfortably beneath Eric’s bright electric Washburn, and their voices blend effortlessly. Boston music blog, Red Line Roots, said, “…there is an effortless feel to how they sing together, like they were made to create music as a seamless grouping.”

This event is a part of Vermont Arts 2017, celebrating arts in Vermont.

Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20. A pre-concert dinner is available for $25. Reservations are required for dinner and recommended for the show. Venue is BYOB. Call 802-247-4295 or email info@ brandon-music.net for reservations or for more information. Brandon Music is located at 62 Country Club Road, Brandon.

LIVING A.D.E.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 19

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DEC

16 Courtesy of Dish Communications

“Kedi” shows the love and respect that cats receive from the people of Istanbul.

“Kedi” screens at Billings Farm & Museum Saturday, Dec. 16, 3 p.m.—WOODSTOCK— The 8th annual Woodstock Vermont Film Series at the Billings Farm & Museum will feature the awardwinning documentary “Kedi” on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. in HD projection and surround sound, with complimentary refreshments. All films are open to the public and accessible to people

with disabilities. Reservations are strongly recommended.

“Kedi” (the Turkish name for cat) is a magical and immensely endearing documentary film about the respect, love, and adoration the people of Istanbul show toward the stray cats that roam freely on the city’s streets. The cat embodies the indescribable chaos, the culture,

and the uniqueness that is the essence of Istanbul.

Without the cat, Istanbul would lose a part of its soul.

Tickets prices are $9$11. For more information, visit billingsfarm.org/filmfest or 802-457-2355.

Billings Farm & Museum is located one-half mile north of the Woodstock village green on Vermont Route 12.

Kind Bud invites community to Christmas carol sing-a-long Saturday, Dec. 16, 3:30 p.m.—WEST RUTLAND—This holiday season, Kind Bud and Kitty are hosting a free community carol sing-a-long Saturday, Dec. 16 at the West Rutland Town Hall, and they invite the community to join in singing good, old fashioned Christmas carols. With many thanks to area businesses, everyone who attends will receive their own carol book to take home and to keep. For a sample of the music, visit the Community Carol SingA-Longs’ page on Facebook.

The shows is at 3:30 p.m. and is free and open to all. West Rutland Town Hall is located at 35 Marble St., West Rutland.

M O U N TA I N

RESORT

DECEMBER

26 WARREN MILLER MOVIE:

LINE OF DESCENT

Showings at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. in the Jackson Gore Cornerstone Room.

Admission is $20 for all ages. Tickets may be available at the door, but we encourage advanced purchases online at okemo.com/events.

Courtesy of Kitty Keenhold

Kind Bud, of the Kind Budds, will perform a Christmas carol sing-a-long in the community of West Rutland, Saturday.

For true Vermont gifts, visit Christmas Holiday Fair Saturday, Dec. 16, 9 a.m.—RUTLAND—The Vermont Farmers’ Market presents its annual Christmas holiday fair, a wonderful 25-year-old event that takes place this year at the Holiday Inn, Route 7 South, Rutland. Hours are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. This long-time craft fair and food event brings real Vermont artistic handmade creations that speak for themselves. Vermont has always been famous for food. The flavor and taste of Vermont greet guests with every mouthful.

For those wishing to give a genuine, time-honored Vermont gift this season, this is the place to find them.

Items will include Christmas décor including balsam wreaths, many forms of art, paintings, fabrics, woodenware, glass art, ceramics, soaps, jewelry, beeswax candles, market bags, herbals, doll clothes, hats, quilts, pottery, and dog items.

Country bakers will delight with breads, pies, pastries, cookies, fudge, and cider donuts.

Specialty food vendors appeal to the tastebuds with maple syrup, maple cream, maple sugar cakes, and other maple specialties. Over 100 varieties of preserves will garner attention, plus salsas, marinades, dressings, raw honey, apples, cider, and even pickles.

Made gift boxes are available — there is still time!

Some vendors will custom-make orders in time for Christmas.

As always, it’s free admission. And the vendors think visitors will like the prices, too.

Plymouth Community Center hosts holiday events Saturday, Dec. 16, 4 p.m.—PLYMOUTH— There will be a Memory Tree Lighting ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. at The Plymouth Community Center. The community is invited to enjoy a holiday gathering at the center, starting at 2:30 p.m., with a Christmas movie shown in the activity room.

Cookies, juice, coffee and tea will be served.

The Plymouth Schoolhouse Childcare will have open doors for children to play in the classroom and the Plymouth Historical Society will also be open for visitors. Come and celebrate!

The Plymouth Community Center is located at 35 School Dr., Plymouth.

27 TORCHLIGHT PARADE

& FIREWORKS DISPLAY

Enjoy a free pyrotechnics show in the Okemo Clock Tower base area, following a torchlight parade on Open Slope. Begins at 7:30 p.m.

29 PAINT & SIP

Grab a drink, an apron & take a seat! A local artist will work with you to help bring out the artist in you. 7 - 9 p.m. The cost of this event is $50.

Purchase early! Pre-order tickets online at okemo.com/events.

Space is limited. Cash-only tickets may be available at the door, if not sold out.

31 OKEMO FAMILY

NEW YEAR’S EVE Midnight arrives early for friends and family enjoying a whole host of activities. Activities begin at 5 p.m.

Pizza & Dance Party begin at 6:30 p.m.

Festivities conclude at 9 p.m. with an incredible fireworks display.

Purchase tickets online or call (802) 228-1601.

EMO THE OK

e The differenc

is

ce

Convenien

CARD

GIVE THE GIFT OF OKEMO! Okemo Gift Cards are the perfect gift for any season!

May be used for products and services resort-wide, including lift tickets, ski school, rentals, resort dining and retail stores.

okemo.com/access · okemo.com/giftcard

OKEMO.COM • #ITSOKEMOTIME • (802) 228-1600

20 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

FOOD 506 Bistro

The 506 Bistro serves a simple, seasonal menu featuring Vermont highlights. Set in the open bar and lounge, the atmosphere is casual and warm. Your are likely to be served a yankee pot roast, a great organic burger from a nearby farm or fresh strawberry shortcake with Vermont berries. Local, simple, home cooked is what we are all about. (802) 457-5000

Back Country Café

506 506

The Back Country Café is a hot spot for delicious breakfast foods. Choose from farm fresh eggs, multiple kinds of pancakes and waffles, omelet’s or daily specials to make your breakfast one of a kind. Check our Facebook for daily specials. (802) 422-4411

506 BirchBistro Ridge and Bar

Serving locals and visitors alike since VT 1998,highlights dinner at the Birch Ridge Inn is a delicious way to complete Serving a seasonal menu featuring your day in Killington. Featuring Vermont inspired New American cuisine in the inns dining room and 506 Bistro and Bar Great Room Lounge, you will also find a nicely stocked bar, hand crafted cocktails, fine wines, seafood

and vegetarian options,VT and wonderful house made desserts. www.birchridge.com. 802-422-4293.

Serving a seasonal menu featuring highlights 802.475.5000 | ontheriverwoodstock.com

and Rotisserie LocatedChoices in On The Restaurant River Inn, Woodstock VT Chef-owned, Choices Restaurant and Rotisserie was named 2012 ski magazines favorite restaurant.

A short scenic drive from Killington Choices may be the name of the restaurant but it is also what you get. Soup of the day, shrimp cockatil,

802.475.5000 | ontheriverwoodstock.com

pan seared chicken, a variety of salads and pastas, scallops, sole, lamb and more Located in On The steak, Riverhamburgers, Inn, Woodstock VT await you. An extensive wine list and in house made desserts are also available.

A short scenicwww.choices-restaurant.com drive from Killington (802) 422-4030

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Clear River Tavern

Irish Pub

Our fantastic American tavern menu featuring burgers, pizza, salads, steak and more is now being handcrafted by our new Executive Chef Tim Galvin. . Nestled on 10 acres directly on the VAST snowmobile trails and only 8 miles from the Killington Road. Our live music schedule will keep you entertained, and we never charge a cover. We’re sure you’ll agree that “When You’re Here, You’re in the Clear”. www.clearrivertavern.com (802) 746-8999

Inn at

L ng Trail

Inn at Long Trai

Looking for something a little different? Hit up McGrath’s Irish Pub for a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, live music on the weekends and delicious food. Guinness not your favorite? They also have Vermont’s largest Irish Whiskey selection. Reservations are appreciated. innatlongtrail.com/Home.html (802) -775-7181

Foundry

Enjoy an intimate dining menu or tavern specials at Killington’s only waterside dining that also has live entertainment every Friday and Saturday. Appetizers include crab cakes, buffalo drumsticks and a cheese slate while the entrees include chicken Marsala, meat loaf, steamed lobster and more. The tavern menu features nachos, fried fish sandwich, teriyaki steak sandwich and others. www.foundrykillington.com (802) 422-5335

JAX

At Killington’s hometown bar, you’re bound to have a good time with good food. Starters, burgers, sandwiches, wraps and salads are all available. With live entertainment seven days a week, they’re always serving food until last call. www.supportinglocalmusic.com (802) 422-533

Jones’ Donuts Classic Italian Cuisine Old World Tradition

fresh. simple. delicious!

1/2 price appetizers & flaTbreads DAILY from 4-5 p.m.

OPEN DAILY AT 4 P.M.

SUNDAY DINNER specials Choose any Entree from sunday dinner menu plus soup or salad and includes 2 meatballs per person 4-6 p.m. sunday only $20 each adult; $10 each child

pasta | veal | Chicken seafood | steak | flatbreads

422-3293 First on the Killington RoaD

Offering donuts and a bakery, with a community reputation as being the best! Closed Monday and Tuesday. 23 West Street, Rutland. See what’s on special at Facebook.com/JonesDonuts/ Call (802) 773-7810

Killington Market

Take breakfast, lunch or dinner on the go at Killington Market, Killington’s on-mountain grocery store for the last 30 years. Choose from breakfast sandwiches, hand carved dinners, pizza, daily fresh hot panini, roast chicken, salad and specialty sandwiches. Vermont products, maple syrup, fresh meat and produce along with wine and beer are also for sale. www.killingtonmarket.com (802) 422-7736 or (802) 422-7594

Liquid Art

Forget about the polar vortex for a while and relax in the warm atmosphere at Liquid Art. Look for artfully served lattes from their La Marzocco espresso machine, or if you want something stronger, try their signature cocktails. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, they focus on healthy fare and provide you with a delicious meal different than anything else on the mountain. LiquidartVT.com (802) 422-2787.

Lookout Tavern

With a free shuttle, take away and call ahead seating, Lookout Tavern is a solid choice. Nachos, quesadillas, sweet potato fries, salads, soups, sandwiches and dinner options are always a good selection and happy hour is from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Open daily at noon and serving until 10 p.m. on Friday. www.lookoutvt.com (802) 422-5665 Voted the best ribs and burger in Killington, Moguls is a great place for the whole family. Soups, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, buckets of chicken wings, salads, subs and pasta are just some of the food that’s on the menu. Free shuttle and take away and delivery options are available. (802) 4224777

Celebrate the holidays at the Birch Ridge Inn Serving Dinner from 6:00 PM Thursday thru Saturday in early December Book now for Christmas birchridge.com - 802.422.4293

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 21

MATTERS Mountain Top Inn & Resort

Whether staying overnight or visiting for the day, Mountain Top’s Dining Room & Tavern serve delicious cuisine amidst one of Vermont’s best views. A mix of locally inspired and International cuisine – including salads, seafood, poultry and a new steakhouse menu - your taste buds are sure to be satisfied. Choose from 12 Vermont craft brews on tap.Warm up by the terrace fire pit after dinner.! Just ashort drive from Killington. www.mountaintopinn.com 802.483.2311

Peppinos

Chef-owned since 1992, Peppino’s offers Neapolitan cuisine at its finest: pasta, veal, chicken, seafood, steak, and flatbreads. If you want it, Peppino’s has it! Aprés-hour daily features half price appetizers and flatbreads. For reservations, call 802-422-3293. www.peppinosvt.com.

Phat Italian

You want a sandwich? The Phat Italian can make you a sandwich. Choose from their signature hot sandwiches, paninis, and their signature cold sandwiches. Check out their refreshing smoothie and juice bar to perfectly accent one of the delicious sandwiches. www.thephatitalian.com (802) 422-7428

Pickle Barrel

Being Killington’s largest and most exciting venue, you’re bound to have a good time in here. Party the night away and feed yourself on delicious food such as chicken wings, onion rings, French fries or even a bowl of bacon. If that doesn’t interest you, you’re able to make your own pizza, by the slice or the whole pie. www.picklebarrelnightclub.com (802) 422-3035

Red Clover

Farm to Table Vermont Food and Drinks. Thursday night Live Jazz. Monday night Chef Specials. Open Thursday to Monday, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. 7 Woodward Road, Mendon, VT. 802-755-2290, redcloverinn.com

Rosemary’s

Rosemary’s was built around an indoor boulder,features an illuminated garden view, and photographs capturing the Inn’s history. Chef Daniel Molina, who comes to us from from Salubre Trattoria and the Canoe Club¬†¬†in Hanover, blends the flavors of Ireland with those of countryside New England created with a host of fresh local Vermont and New England seafood products. We take pride in serving you only the best quality, and supporting the local farmers. innatlongtrail.com 802-775-7181

Seward’s Dairy

If you’re looking for something truly unique and Vermont, check out Seward Dairy Bar. Serving classic homemade food including hamburgers, steaks, chicken, sandwiches and seafood. Craving something a little sweeter? Check out their own homemade 39 flavors of ice cream. Vermont products also sold.

(802) 773-2738.

Sugar and Spice

Stop on by to Sugar and Spice for a home style breakfast or lunch served up right. Try six different kinds of pancakes and/or waffles or order up some eggs and home fries. For lunch they offer a Filmore salad, grilled roast beef, burgers and sandwiches. Take away and deck dining available. www.vtsugarandspice.com (802) 773-7832

HAPPY HOUR R 3:00-6:00 P.M.

OPEN ALL WEEK

SOUPS•SALADS

BURGERS•PASTA SEAFOOD•BURRITOS

LUNCH DAILY

NFL BEST WINGS HEADQUARTERS

• All Games in HD •

HAPPY HOUR

3-6PM Kid’s Menu Available Open Daily FRIDAY FOOD UNTIL MIDNIGHT

422•LOOK HO HO HO...HO HO HO!

FREE SHUTTLE

O’Dwyers Public House

O’Dwyers Public House at the Summit Lodge welcomes you to enjoy traditional Irish fare including Guinness Stew, Seafood Pie and Bangers and Mash, in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Irish and local brews are on tap, and we have live music every weekend! (802) 422-3535.

Culinary Institute of America Alum

Outback Pizza & More

&

N I G H T C L U B

Look for the bears! Outback Pizza has new ownership, and is completely renovated with a firehouse bar and zebra room. Still enjoy the wood fired brick over pizza, plus soups, burgers, pasta, salads, wings, chili, and more, plus a kids menu. Daily specials, 16 microbrews available; with a free shuttle van. 2841 Killington Road, Killington. (802) 422-9885.

Pasta Pot N I G H T C L U B

& N I G H T C L U B

Chef owned, the Pasta Pot has 40 years of authentic Italian cuisine under its belt. Whether you’re in the mood for ante pasta, pasta, pizza or homemade entrees, you’ll be satisfied. All menu entrees and pasta are available in half orders and don’t forget to ask about seasonal dishes. (802) 422-3004

Sushi Yoshi

Sushi Yoshi is Killington’s true culinary adventure. With Hibachi, Sushi, Chinese and Japanese, we have something for every age and palate. Private Tatame rooms and large party seating available. We boast a full bar with 20 craft beers on draft. Lunch and dinner available seven days a week. We are chef-owned and operated. Delivery or take away option available. Now open year round. www.vermontsushi.com (802) 422-4241

“

“

&

“You are about to have the best food you’ve eaten, no ifs, ands, or buts.”

-The Rutland Herald

• A Farm to Table Restaurant • Handcut Steaks, Filets & Fish • All Baking Done on Premises

• Over 20 wines by the glass • Great Bar Dining • Freshly made pasta

All entrées include two sides and soup or salad

Serving a seasonal menu featuring VT highlights 802.475.5000 | ontheriverwoodstock.com Located in On The River Inn, Woodstock VT A short scenic drive from Killington

“

506 506 Bistro and Bar

Thurs. - Tues. 5-9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 5-10:30 p.m., Sun. 5-9 p.m.

~ Sunday Brunch 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. ~

“

“The locally favored spot for consistently good, unpretentious fare.”

-N.Y. Times, 2008

422-4030 • 2820 KILLINGTON RD. WWW.CHOICES-RESTAURANT.COM

22 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

LIVING A.D.E.

Gift-of-Life Marathon Blood Drive Dec. 20 - Castleton University Dec. 21 and 22 – Holiday Inn

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, GIVE MORE LIFE! Sponsored by : Green Mountain Power Castleton University Mix 98.1-WJJR

Call 800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org for an appointment.

Courtesy of Shakespeare on Main Street

The Shakespeare on Main Street cast of actors readies for the annual production of “A Christmas Carol.”

Shakespeare on Main Street to present “A Christmas Carol,” chamber style Saturday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.— RUTLAND—Begin your holiday season with Shakespeare on Main Street (SoMS) as they present this timeless holiday classic in intimate chamber style on Saturday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m., at the Brick Box/ Paramount Theatre, 30 Center St., Rutland.

In “A Christmas Carol,” Dickens explores the morality of the love of money over the love of family and people. Scrooge sees the way his life has slipped into a basically unhappy and lonely old age where he has lost the possibility of love and friendship. This holiday masterwork is a story of compassion, forgiveness and redemption as Dickens proposes that connect-

ing individuals to one another is what ultimately corrects the social injustice created by capitalism.

Chamber theater is a style of theater in which the actors may or may not memorize their lines, but place emphasis on vocal expression to help the audience understand the story rather than visual storytelling such as sets, costumes, intricate blocking, and movement. This style of performance of literature was initially lauded because it emphasized hearing a written text as a new way to understand literature.

Director Gary Meitrott adapts chamber style to include costuming and movement by the actors, adding a lively and creative element to the performance. With simple,

yet elegant Victorian furniture and costuming, five actors bring all the characters to life, uniquely telling the story with Dickens’ own words.

Meitrott, a lover of classic literature and founder of SoMS, said, “Even though we are all connected electronically, we are also isolated as individuals. ‘A Christmas Carol’ rings truer than ever in its lesson to give and to love with every moment we have.”

The cast features Evan Breault, David Kiefner, Ken Kilb, Jonathan White and Meghan Wood.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students and military, and $5 for children under age 12. For more information, visit shakespeareonmainstreet.org.

FOLA Christmas Celebration highlights community Friday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.—LUDLOW— Friends of the Ludlow Auditorium [FOLA] will bring the sights and sounds of the holiday season to the Ludlow Town Hall Auditorium with its annual Community Christmas Celebration on Friday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.

George Thomson will once again emcee this night of holiday performances by the members of the community. Clau-

KILLINGTON MOUNTAIN GUIDES

dia Pawlikowski will lead students from the Ludlow Elementary School and the Mount Holly Elementary School in Christmas songs and dance.

Katherine Herrle and the Black River High School/ Middle School will also perform a variety of holiday music.

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Great Breakfast Menu Mimosas ~ Bellinis ~ Bloody Marys

ROCK & ICE CLIMBING SKI TOURING

EGGS • OMELETTES PANCAKES • WAFFLES

802.746.8044 | killingtonmountainguides.com

923 KILLINGTON RD. 802-422-4411

OPEN FRIDAY - MONDAY AT 7 A.M.

In addition to the student performances, the three ghosts from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” will contemplate their roles before haunting Scrooge in a short comedic skit; and talented members of the community will sing a few traditional songs, poignant readings of holiday poems, and a special performance of “The Christmas Truce,” which examines the aftermath of the famous World War I Christmas cessation of hostilities

on the soldiers in the trenches. The evening will close with a rousing sing-along of traditional Christmas songs.

Come and enjoy this celebration that will feature friends and neighbors, including: Kay Burge, Bruce Farr, Will Hunter, Lisha Klaiber, Bob Kottkamp, Andy Ohotnicky, Sandra Russo, Scott Stearns, Linda Thomson, Rolf van Schaik, and Larry Wilfong.

For more information, contact 802-2283238 or visit fola.us. The Community Christmas Celebration is free and open to everyone of good cheer.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 23

LIVING A.D.E.

Bells of Joy presents 35th annual Christmas concert Friday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.—RUTLAND—The Bells of Joy, directed by Karen James, will present its 35th annual Christmas Concert on Friday, Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the chapel of the United Methodist Church, 71 Williams St., Rutland. Inspired by the Lessons and Carols Service from Kings College Cambridge in England, this concert will feature traditional Christmas carols, like “Veni, Emmanuel,” and “Joy to the World,” arranged specially for this unique instrument. This will be the final Christmas Concert presented in the beautiful United Methodist Church Chapel, as the congregation prepares to move into a newly renovated space at 60 Strongs Ave. at the end of this calendar year.

Thirty-six years ago, Charlotte Steele gave the first three octaves of handbells to the Rutland United Methodist Church in memory of her husband, Arthur Steele. Both of them had a great love of music, and beginning with this initial gift, the Rutland church has been filled with the love of music. The Bells of Joy now

ring a full five octaves of handbells and handchimes which have been given in memory of many loved ones by numerous individuals. Over the years handbells have evolved into a complex precision musical instrument, and the visual beauty of the ringers performing has been found to capture the attention of all ages.

The program will also feature a new sound to the Rutland area, that of steel drums. Pandemonium is comprised of women who have been playing pan for about three months. They meet weekly with Jennifer Cohen, founder of Calypso Consulting Steel Drum workshops. To learn more, visit calypsoconsultingvt.com.

This year, the Bells of Joy Ringers include members of the United Methodist Church, several Castleton University Music Majors, and local community members who love coming together to make beautiful music together on this lovely instrument.

Come early to get a good seat. This concert will lift your heart and spirit and renew your soul. Donations are greatly appreciated.

DEC.

15

Contact Us.

Contact Us.

@themountaintimes

@MtTimes @themountaintimes

The Mountain Times @MtTimes

The Mountain Times

Courtesy of Peter Griggs

PETER GRIGGS

Peter Griggs to give holiday concert in Killington Saturday, Dec. 16, 7 p.m.—KILLINGTON—Church of Our Saviour will host internationally known guitarist/composer Peter Griggs in a concert, “Music For An Old English Christmas,” on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. Griggs will perform a selection of traditional English music associated with the Christmas season, including wassailing songs, Morris dances and ballads such as the New Years version of “Greensleeves.”

Wassailing songs were originally sung during the Christmas season to ensure the fertility of fields and orchards, while Morris (originally Moorish) dances were performed in rural England as part of traditional Twelfth Night celebrations. Griggs also performs several pieces on the laud, a 12-string folk lute.

Peter Griggs has presented more than 500 solo guitar concerts throughout the U.S., Germany, United Kingdom, France, the Low Countries, Scandinavia and eastern Europe at art centers, festivals, museums, churches, jazz clubs and other venues. His recordings are available on Folkways Records, Music of the World, Treecastle Music and CD Baby.

Church of Our Saviour is located at 316 Mission Farm Road in Killington. For more information, visit facebook.com/COSMissionFarmVT/ or call 802-422-9064. Admission is by free-will donation, and a reception with light refreshments will follow the concert.

Serving Breakfast & lunch 7am-2pm daily Breakfast all day, lunch after 11am Come to our sugarhouse for the best breakfast around! After breakfast check out our giftshop for all your souvenier, gift, and maple syrup needs.

We look forward to your visit!

Sugar & Spice Restaurant & Gift Shop Rt. 4 Mendon, VT 802-773-7832 www.vtsugarandspice.com

24 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

LIVING A.D.E.

DEC .

19

Courtesy of VTF&W

A bull moose stands in thick brush in the woodlands of Vermont.

VTF&W holds public meeting on moose in Vermont

WOODSTOCK— The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is holding a public informational meeting about Vermont’s moose Dec. 19 at Billings Farm & Museum, 69 Old River Road, Woodstock. This is one of three being held throughout the state, including Dec. 13 in Island Pond and Dec. 14 in Montpelier.

“We are holding the meetings on the status of Vermont’s moose population, including information about

new challenges facing moose and current research efforts here in the Northeast,” said Vermont’s director of wildlife, Mark Scott. “We want to share information and educate Vermonters about Vermont’s moose population, and get a better feel for what other information the public would like about Vermont’s moose herd. Anyone interested in Vermont’s moose population will want to attend one of these meetings.”

The meetings will include information about historical moose populations in Vermont, the impacts of climate change and winter ticks on Vermont’s population, and the current three-year moose study in which moose cows and calves are being monitored for survival.

Wildlife staff will be on hand to show pictures of Vermont moose and their habitats. The meetings are free and will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Killington artist introduces new line of fine art cards, recreated from prints

By Maurie Harrington

Maurie Harrington’s full size watercolor painting of Killington skiers has recently been made into a card.

KILLINGTON—Vermont artist Maurie Harrington’s recent art project is producing a line of winter and summer cards. They are printed from her original watercolor paintings and each card is hand signed. The colorful cards are distributed throughout Vermont. Many Killington shops are carrying her artwork including her cards. She is thrilled to know that so many people have bought her cards and are recycling them by framing them for their own houses or for gifts for friends and family. Many of her images are paintings that have been

inspired by the the beauty of the Killington mountains.

Harrington also teaches watercolor classes along with paint and sip classes.

Locally, she is instructing a class on Sundays at Killington ART Garage. In the summer months, she is the Art Director at the Fisk Farm in Isle La Motte located on Lake Chaplain. Her summer studio is located in North Hero.

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The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 25

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26 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

Is Minnesota going to be OK? If you had asked me in 2015 to name three people from Minnesota, I probably would have thought for a moment and then come up with iconic pop star Prince, Senator Al Franken, and the public radio raconteur Garrison Keillor.

In 2016, Prince died of a fentanyl overdose. Now, two concurrent sexual misconduct scandals have abruptly banished Franken and Keillor from public life, as a long, cold winter sets in across the Land of 10,000 Lakes. What do Minnesotans have left? Let’s not forget that Mary Tyler Moore – TV’s most famous Minneapolitan of the 20th century – also died last year, by brett yates and that Disney hasn’t produced a “Mighty Ducks” sequel in more than two decades.

A few months before finding out that Franken had a habit of fondling unsuspecting women, I read his 2017 book, “Al Franken, Giant of the Senate,” whose jocularly grandiose title makes it sound like it’s going to be a parody of the political memoir genre, though it actually just straightforwardly is one, with some jokes interspersed. If you want to know what it’s like to run for political office or work on Capitol Hill, it’s pretty informative. But if you’re hoping for a clear-eyed, darkly comic journey into the horrifying moral abyss that more recently inflicted Donald Trump’s egregious tax reform bill upon the nation, you may find Franken’s work less barbed than expected. The only Republican whom he addresses with any venom is Ted Cruz; otherwise, the author admits that, on a personal level, he actually likes many of his opponents.

Of course, Franken insists in the book that his across-

generation y

TWO CONCURRENT SEXUAL MISCONDUCT SCANDALS HAVE ABRUPTLY BANISHED FRANKEN AND KEILLOR FROM PUBLIC LIFE, AS A LONG, COLD WINTER SETS IN ACROSS THE LAND OF 10,000 LAKES. WHAT DO MINNESOTANS HAVE LEFT? the-aisle affection for his colleagues doesn’t prevent him from seeing the Republican agenda for what it is or from firmly opposing it. Instead, he argues that maintaining cordial relations with the Republicans helps him pass legislation that requires bipartisan support: “For example,” he writes, “there’s a history of flooding in the Red River Valley between Minnesota and North Dakota, so it’s really important that North Dakota Republican John Hoeven and I be able to work together to fight for flood mitigation funding.”

I can’t argue that this doesn’t make sense. However, I also can’t help but feel that anyone capable of writing the sentence “Jeff Sessions is my friend” while knowing that Jeff Sessions spent the 1980s terrorizing black people in Alabama for trying to vote is morally deficient. When Franken was accused of sexual misconduct, I was still surprised, but my estimation of his character had already sunk a bit.

Minnesota residents may be more acutely disappointed. During his Senate career, Franken’s admirers and his critics could both acknowledge his strong “constituency work” – he tried hard to stay in touch with the particular concerns of Minnesotans and to advocate on their behalf in Washington.

Meanwhile, outside of Franken’s home state, liberals are now in a furor over the unfairness that their feminist crusade against the abusive behavior of powerful men seems capable, in Washington, of destroying only the men on their own side of the political spectrum. Franken, who as a senator successfully fought for the rights of sexual assault victims, has (with obvious resentment) resigned, but Trump, whose disrespect for women is beyond obvious, stays in office, and as of this writing, the widely accused child molester Roy Moore has a very good chance of winning the Senate seat in Alabama.

Understandably, some Democrats are miffed that the Republicans get to play by a different set of rules than they do – in other words, they’re very annoyed that, in order to maintain their image as the party that supports women, they have to submit to the inconvenience of actually supGen Y, page 27

By Declan McCabe

The afterlife of logs

My three children have participated in a Four Winds Nature Institute program that recruits adult family members to lead grade-school nature learning. I have worked with several moms and dads over the years to pull together materials for handson lessons about communities, habitats, and the natural world.

The activities usually ended with crowd-pleasing puppet shows.

During my first year in the program, in a rare moment of advance planning, I read the entire year’s program and was glad I did: “Snags and Rotting Logs” was scheduled for November, when I anticipated most logs would be frozen or buried in snow. Regardless of frost or snow, I expected that some interesting invertebrates would have tunneled deep into the soil to wait out Vermont’s winter, leaving little more than wood for the students to dissect.

So I pushed a wheelbarrow into Winooski’s Gilbrook Nature Area in September to load up with logs for November. I poked a screwdriver through the bark of each log to confirm that wood was sufficiently rotted to host a diverse community before bagging them for cold storage.

I had stacked the odds in favor of success by selecting only the “best” logs: my poking and probing quickly focused my attention on birch.

The point of the Four Winds lesson is to show how snags (standing dead trees) and downed logs, while no longer growing wood, are very much alive with other organisms.

Fungi that weakened trees and hastened their return to earth continue releasing enzymes and are joined by soil fungi, further breaking down cell walls. Insects and other invertebrates, incapable of digesting wood without the help of fungi and other microorganisms, draw sustenance from the decomposing debris.

Carpenter ants dine elsewhere, on sweet or high-protein foods, but they nest in decaying wood.

This early invasion of dead wood sets the table for larger creatures. Shrews, moles, and insectivorous birds chow down on the abundant six-legged, protein-packed morsels. Woodpecker activity opens up the logs to the elements, accelerating the breakdown and release of nutrients from the wood to forest soil.

Pileated woodpeckers are a good indicator of mature forest conditions, including snags for nest sites and logs in various states of decomposition.

For woodpeckers’ purposes and mine, not all logs are created equal. Some, such as black locusts planted in years past to grow fence posts, take a long time to decompose and are therefore poor hosts for invertebrates. Researcher Grégoire Freschet and colleagues in Holland modeled log decomposition and showed that alder, willow, and poplar lose most of

their density to decomposition in eight years; logs from pine roots were far tougher, lasting four times as long. However, all of these trees share one characteristic that made them less interesting for my purposes: the bark tends to rot first.

Birch flips the decomposition process on its head. The wood rapidly rots to crumbly pulp while the bark, protected by antifungal compounds, persists as an intact cylinder. These “birch pipes” can serve as important habitats for invertebrates. With a long-bladed shovel, it’s easy to lift an intact yet very rotten birch log into a bag along with all of its inhabitants.

Birch pipes have been a great way for children in our Four Winds program to make hands-on investigations, discovering how rot-

decomposing logs is a good example of how kids ’ science instruction doesn’t always require fancy equipment; often all that is needed is outdoor materials and time to explore. Through fun activities, children and adults learn together to appreciate that nature is everywhere, and that our fellow travelers are fascinating.

This year, with the delay in cold weather, it may still be warm enough to slide a shovel under a log for study. If you do, I recommend a well-rotted birch log.

ting logs are essential habitats for centipedes, millipedes, sow bugs, beetle larvae, and ants as well as the birds that depend on them for food.

I must come clean at this point and admit that the first time I provided logs for the classroom, I sweetened the pot by adding night crawlers. The children found the night crawlers along with other earthworms and more than a dozen invertebrate species that had not required my real-estate services.

The thrill of “the hunt” through

Declan McCabe teaches biology at Saint Michael’s College. His work with student researchers on insect communities in the Champlain Basin is funded by Vermont EPSCoR’s Grant NSF EPS Award #1556770 from the National Science Foundation. 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

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 27

The adventures of Extreme self care in extreme times Pip the Impaler It’s been a long time since we have talked about my guinea pig, Pip the Impaler. As many faithful readers know, Pip and I moved in together on impulse after meeting on craigslist shortly after the death of my previous Guinea pig, the sainted Stinky Pete, who lived eight and a half years and died in my lap.

By br brady I thought that I was crain buying Pip from a family with a 5-year-old, but really what I was doing was rescuing him from a year of abuse and neglect. For the first year after I got him, pretty much all he did was snap at me, like a dog biting the water coming out of a garden hose. Thus the moniker because he reminded me of Vlad, Count Dracula – all teeth and no self control. His first name, Pip, was given with misplaced optimism, named after the hero of Dickens’ “Great Expectations.”

Clearly traumatized, any time anyone tried to touch him he would back up until he was in a corner. He would often sit backed up into a corner, basically peeing himself in fear. I had thought he would come around much quicker than he did, but within a year he was exhibiting basic recovery, and I was bribing him with treats to get him to socialize, because the only time he would tolerate being touched was when he was eating.

I had him for a year before he started regularly grooming himself, and even then it was minimal, he would occasionally pass a paw over his face. Now, after two and a half years with me, he grooms himself like any rodent you would see, scrubbing his face with his hands in that completely adorable way that only rodents do.

We had some fits and starts with his digestive system.

He had gown up on carrots and pellets (his poop was literally orange when I got him–I swear they fed him crayons and ice cream), and we finally got him settled down by switching hay brands and feeding him a little kale every day as a snack. We have since been able to add to that a Brussels sprout every morning with the kale (he is absolutely mad for Brussels sprouts), and he seems to be doing pretty well.

He clearly wants to interact, but remains a very prickly little guy, still regularly going through the motions of biting, though rarely making contact with his teeth. He seems to be unable to get by the hardwiring of the trauma messaging that pain comes after pleasant interaction.

He even goes through periods where he is far more pleasant, almost loving, purring, rubbing against my fingers, etc., and this lasts for days.

Other signs of progress abound. He communicates clearly (he has things he does when he wants more hay, when he wants more water, when he wants his treat); he knows when he is invited to come out of his cage (I put a pillow in front of the cage and he hops on it). If he is particularly desperate for his treat he jumps right into my lap.

One of the cutest things is that I started giving him hulled pumpkin seeds in a tiny ceramic dish, which he had never seen before. When the dish was empty, he started playing with the dish, throwing it around, biting it in different ways, and getting really into it once his cover was on for the night. The dish has since lost its novelty, so I will have to find him a new toy.

Despite his general curmudgeonry, he will occasionally tolerate a snuggle. I have taken to putting him in sort of a blanket fort and scratching his chin, instead of trying to hold him or pet him other than on the chin. The other hilarious thing he does is every other night or so is, he gets what I call a case of the dashes, and he just runs and runs and runs, circles, figure eights, into his igloo, out, up onto his hammock, and then off. It is priceless.

I really do miss having a snugly Guinea pig, though.

Eventually, I am going to get Pip neutered (it is expensive, and very tough for Guinea pigs), and get him a couple of girl pigs to keep both of us company, and take a little bit of the pressure off him.

I wonder what effect it had on his poor battered person, landing from his terrible life right into a life with someone who was in his face every day trying to win him over. I’m crazy about the little bugger, though.

Altit Altitude Sick Sickness

“Not what we have, but what we tub, a towel on your tummy that’s But it’s better to look for attributes. enjoy constitutes our abundance.” soaked in warm Epsom salts does Say a prayer for those in need, the – Epicurus the trick. poor, the sick, and refugees. Pray for Extreme self care is called for in The Brits have long lauded the extreme times, and these times are soothing effects of a hot cup of tea, most certainly extreme. I learned at the tea hour. The Chinese assure this lesson when I returned home us that green tea’s the best to profrom Argentina after living under mote health and longevity. WhatMountain the military dictatorship. Feelever your preference, brew a pot or on Meditation ing powerless to help a friend in a cup then sit down, relax, and put

By Marguerite te the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo your feet up. Read a good book, or Jill Dye (whose children and grandchildren a poem about nature, or just sip had disappeared), and working your tea and complete a thought. with abandoned women and chilVisualize yourself in your favorite dren in the “villas miserias” (shanty spot, inhale the fragrance, and think our soldiers who risk their lives, and towns), I was diagnosed with clinigood thoughts. Recall a memory for our nation and world peace. cal depression. A counselor told that warms your heart, then pass on Think about what you love in me to do what I loved, so I bought that feeling of love and warmth. your life and what you’d prefer to myself some watercolor supplies List the things that you’re grateeliminate. It’s up to you to decide and took a plein air landscape class ful for, then add a new blessing to it what you want to include or exclude at the Virginia Museum. All over each day: abilities, feelings, animals from daily life. So write down the Richmond, I sat myself changes you’d like to down in gardens and make and what you want parks to commune with to manifest. Writing deflowers. Surrounded by sires down on paper gives beauty, I found inspirathem ever so much more TRY TO SEE THE VERY BEST IN tion, and rediscovered power. Start each goal SOMEONE YOU’VE HAD DIFFERENCES the healing power of nawith a baby step, then see ture that I’d discovered as how much closer you get.

WITH. WE ALL HAVE SHORTCOMINGS. a child while building our Clean up messes, clear IT’S THE TRUTH. BUT IT’S BETTER TO ski house in Killington. out clutter so there’s Creating in nature helped room in your life for LOOK FOR ATTRIBUTES. me to center myself as I all that’s better. Clutter painted the trauma away. creates stagnant energy But being in Vermont, you already and people. Gratitude’s the first which limits our health and vitality. know the powerful effect nature has step towards being happy. Mend a “Clear out the attic,” Feng shui mason yourself! friendship with a call or a letter reters exclaim, “to reach higher aspiSome may think that extreme membering what brought you two rations and dreams.” Exercise both self-care is only available to miltogether. Make a card for a loved your body and brain, since “move it lionaires in luxurious spas where one who’s ill and describe what or lose it” includes the head. masseuses and beauticians provide you’ve always loved about them.

Don’t ignore a new health contreatments, but I know that’s not Visit a neighbor who lives alone or cern that might be an early warning true. While some of the best things in a local retirement home. Don’t sign. Although it may turn out to be in life are free, others cost little but put it off. You don’t want to regret nothing, it’s safer to check in case offer a lot. So I thought I’d share something you never got around to. it’s something. Spend time in the my favorite ideas that are free or Give away something you chersunshine for vitamin D. Increase budget-friendly to tickle your fancy, ish. Include a special hand-written your endorphins through exercise help you care for yourself, and message. You never know when the and by putting a big smile on your spread more joy upon our earth. words you write or say may change face.

Are you overly tired or all stressed another’s life.

Make friends. Talk with people. out? I have the perfect solution: a Some little ones need a special Spend time with pets. And each day steaming hot lavender Epsom salts friend to talk with and who listens be sure to give thanks. For regardbath – aromatherapy to soothe and to them. Bake some cookies and of- less of our trials and pains, no matrelax. Since 80 percent of Americans fer them to your workmen, handyter how bleak the future may seem, are deficient in magnesium, the man, mailcarrier. Let the folks who there’s always a beam of light above mineral seeps right through the serve you know that you appreciate to lead us towards our highest good. skin, relaxing muscles and nourish- their work and attitude.

Marguerite Jill Dye is an artist and ing them. By lighting a candle and Try to see the very best in somewriter who divides her time between closing the door, a peaceful sancone you’ve had differences with. We the Green Mountains of Vermont tuary pops up. If you don’t have a all have shortcomings. It’s the truth. and the Gulf Coast of Florida.

Gen Y:

Looking for hope in Minnesota

continued from page 26 porting women. (These people have no real principles.)

One “liberal” who doesn’t believe that Al Franken should have resigned is, unsurprisingly, the aforementioned humorist Garrison Keillor, who, shortly before reports emerged of similar allegations against him, wrote a rambling Washington Post editorial ostensibly in support of Franken, though most of it was given over to complaining about Minnesota’s efforts to restore the Native American names of certain lakes that European settlers had rebranded to honor slaveowners and Indian killers. Keillor, in his prairie wisdom, makes his points in such a charmingly folksy way, with such sophisticated attention to the small ironies and absurdities of life, that surely readers hardly noticed that he was making the same argument that the neo-Nazis in Charlottesville had used in defense of Virginia’s Confederate monuments.

Eventually, in Keillor’s roundabout way, the piece makes its way to Franken. Keillor observes that, on the USO tours where Franken met his first accuser, Leeann Tweeden, Franken’s shows consisted of “broad comedy of a sort that goes back to the Middle Ages” and Shakespeare; in Keillor’s view, the now infamous photo in which Franken appears

to grope a sleeping Tweeden was an extension of the same honorable “spirit of low comedy.” Like an English literature professor who’s been caught sleeping with students, Keillor casts the feminist pushback against callous male entitlement as an assault upon Western culture itself.

I once mostly liked Al Franken, but Keillor always irritated me. His popular radio show “A Prairie Home Companion” – which he hosted, with unbroken tranquility, between 1974 and 2016 for an audience that must believe boredom is good for the soul – has forever been astoundingly unfunny in its fetishized plainness and understatement. Keillor has the air of a man who decided all on his own that he is a “national treasure,” and somehow the rest of us have gone along with it. The details of his sexual misconduct remain largely unknown thus far, but Minnesota Public Radio has cut ties.

So, do Minnesotans have any remaining heroes? Well, Joel and Ethan Coen are still making movies. Bob Dylan is still alive. The Vikings, the Timberwolves, and the Wild all have winning records this year. And pretty soon, the Gopher State will have a new senator – how exciting! Godspeed, Minnesota.

28 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

Moon Brook:

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integral part of the process.

Wennberg said it was “coincidental” that in the case of Moon Brook, public outcry over draining the ponds – the state’s initial proposal – resulted in discussions with the neighborhood at the same time the state was beginning to develop the TMDL. The first two forums, which were well attended, met with skepticism and some outright opposition on the part of property owners around Combination and Piedmont ponds. Interactive exercises and intense discussion produced a list of values held by the group, with property values, economic issues and the public good topping the list, followed by aesthetic and wildlife values.

Subsequent forums presented possible options, from minimal to drastic, for preserving those values while meeting the TMDL standard, and narrowed them down using visualizations and accompanying data.

The cooling of Moon Brook no longer requires the removal of the ponds. Reducing the surface area of the ponds, providing shade over the water, lining the banks with “no-mow” buffers to filter runoff and provide wildlife habitat, and dredging decades of silt from the ponds were all considered. There was also some discussion about fish passage at the dams, which might bring grant money and found favor with the neighbors.

At the most recent forum, the consultants projected photographs of each pond, digitally modified to illustrate the future appearance with more shade trees, buffers of low-growing native vegetation, and a smaller surface area. Tree placements will preserve views of East Mountain; city-owned Combination Pond has a public access area as well.

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The overall result was surprisingly attractive.

Both dams were judged inadequate from the standpoint of a 100-year flood, although the Combination Dam survived the storms of summer 2011. Both need repair, strengthening and work on the spillways.

At the Nov. 30 forum, all took an active part in putting themselves into the picture, discussing the options, and asking questions.

While the TMDL standard provides the goal, there is flexibility in how the goal is reached, said Ethan Swift, subject to the federal Clean Water Act. A remaining issue is the cost of substantial work on Combination dam. The dam does represent some risk to life and property downstream in a flood event.

The dam crest must be raised and the embankments armored with riprap to withstand overtopping, leaks must be plugged and a new spillway installed. Complicating matters is the fact that a residential street crosses the top of the dam to reach houses on the east side of the pond, with no other outlet.

When asked if the funding is there, Wennberg said, “Not yet.” He said some state and federal resources are available but a detailed application needs to be developed.

“We asked the community what can you live with; the public responded,” Wennberg said. When the state used that public input, to everyone’s surprise they discovered it could work. “So what comes out in terms of targets and recommendations is consistent with what the public can live with, instead of getting into a big argument over whether the left hand knows what the right hand is doing,” he said.

All the forums, including materials, background and timeline, public comments and PowerPoint slides can be seen at rutlandcity.org/ponds.

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this because “it feels good.” When he’s not playing Santa’s helper, he’s an “entrepreneur in the software business.”

Santa’s Workshop, which required advance tickets, was sold out both Friday and Saturday. Hannah Keune, KPAA volunteer coordinator, said Friday Santa’s Workshop was the busiest they have ever seen. “It felt pretty crazy,” she said.

At the end on Sunday, children were allowed to come in without a prior ticket to visit with Santa.

She said the snack vendors weren’t expecting this many people.

Several organizations had fundraising tables. Maureen Flanagan Prencipe stood behind

a table laden with commercially made birdseed wreaths, offered by Rutland Rotary to help fund community programs and nonprofit organizations. Next to the Rotary table, board member Theresa Tool of the Greater Killington Women’s Club was selling home-baked, packaged cookie assortments to raise funds for its scholarship program and also for the Rutland County Humane Society. “This fundraiser is my baby, so I do the cooking,” she said.

Live music was furnished by Vermont’s Moose Crossing Trio and Massachusetts’ Tony Lee Thomas Band with native Vermont vocalist Jenny Porter, as well as school

choruses from 4 to 6:30, including Killington Preschool and the elementary schools from Killington, Chittenden and Pittsford.

All food items were donated to the the Rutland Community Cupboard on River Street in Rutland.

The Rutland food shelf received “a ton” of food, said director Kelly Giancola. All the food was delivered Monday morning on a truck.

“There’s such a variety,” she said.

“I think some people really gave some thought in what they were putting out,” especially in quantities that can be stretched for larger families. The Rutland Community Cupboard partners with the Vermont Foodbank.

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The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 29

Waterway clean up:

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as possible from the sticker shock. Business groups have times. The Vermont Agency of Administration’s budget lobbied against suggestions the commercial sector bear report for October indicated cumulative General Fund a larger proportion of the water quality improvements. revenues were down $12.43 million, compared to the Farmers have also voiced concern about being targeted as same time last year. a result of fertilizer runoff. And Gov. Scott has made clear Bray’s plan has met with skepticism from some memhis disdain for any increases in broad-based taxes or fees. bers of the working group.

The Legislature this past session created a six-member The working group acknowledged Bray’s suggestion working group on water quality funding, through Act 73. that the fee be added as a line item to existing bills, but is Chaired by Secretary of Natural Resources Julie Moore, the not sold on the idea. group was tasked with evaluating existing resources and The group considered four options for administering drafting legislation “to establish equitable and effective either a per-parcel fee, or an impervious surface fee. Those long-term funding methods to support clean water efforts options included billing/collection done by the municiin Vermont.” pality, state, “parallel systems,” or by a local or regional Lawmakers also approved an advisory council to assist storm water utility. the working group, which released its report on Nov. 15, The state of Vermont already pays communities a which can be found at tinyurl.com/yam27hrz. combined total of more than $5 million for help in collectThe panel offered five recommendations, including: ing the statewide education property tax so collection of • Use existing state revenues and resources to fund clean a separate fee could exact a similar toll, according to the water through fiscal year 2021. working group’s report.

• Allow clean water priorities “to guide how costs are Group members also considered a Vermont League of shared across sectors.”

Cities & Towns estimate that it could cost between $1.76 • Establish approaches for collecting revenue and deliver- million and $6.775 million to create a new storm water ing services that are “environmentally efficient and cost billing system in each of Vermont’s 246 municipalities. effective.”

“It was mentioned that placing a storm water fee as a • “Pursue technological and regulatory innovation – separate line on existing property tax bills could be a lessincluding commoditizing phosphorus, developing costly option, result in higher compliance rates, and could flexible financing, and leveraging integrated planning be paid through escrow accounts resulting in less paperand permitting models.” work for property owners,” the report states. “However, • “Commit to adaptive managesince a storm water fee is not a tax, it ment.” was also noted that placing a storm GROUP MEMBERS ALSO Bray, who chairs the Senate Natuwater fee on property tax bills may CONSIDERED A VERMONT ral Resources & Energy Committee, cause confusion.” commended the working group’s Other funding options LEAGUE OF CITIES & efforts, but noted the panel fell short “Based on the current set of TOWNS ESTIMATE THAT IT of fulfilling its mission. assumptions about the amount of “What they came back with is, revenue that needed to be raised, COULD COST BETWEEN ‘Here are some things we think the we were concerned that the admin$1.76 MILLION AND Legislature might want to look at,’ istrative fees could be disproporbut no recommendation,” Bray tionately large,” Moore said during a $6.775 MILLION TO said. “To be direct about it, they did Tuesday phone interview. “We were CREATE A NEW STORM not meet the charge that was given assuming the revenue target was on to them.” the order of $20 million to $25 milWATER BILLING SYSTEM Bray plans to introduce a perlion, based on work documented in IN EACH OF VERMONT’S parcel fee in a bill he will file next the treasurer’s water quality funding month when the 2018 legislative report … We found the administra246 MUNICIPALITIES. session gets under way. The pertive costs could run as high as 20 or parcel fee, Bray reasons, epitomizes the General Assem25 percent of the total amount of revenue that needed to bly’s consensus of “everybody in, everybody pays” when it be raised.” comes to a critical, universally used resource like water.

The working group has recommended a deeper dive One dollar per week into how a storm water fee could be collected at a lower There are roughly 360,000 land parcels in the state, administrative cost, according to Moore. according to Bray. A statewide per-parcel tax of one dollar In the meantime, Moore believes Vermont will be able per week – $52 per year – would yield $18.8 million annuto meet its clean water initiatives through 2021, using ally, according to Bray. funding from the property transfer tax, the state’s capital Combining that amount with another $12 million each bill, and revenue through what she described as “some year from the state’s capital bill would yield what Bray competitive federal grant opportunities.” calls Vermont’s annual $30 million “lift” for water quality Moore added Vermont could soon receive more than programming. $5 million annually as an impact fee from the TDI Clean “Towns already have a list of all the parcels in town and Power Link project that calls for installation of electric send people bills,” Bray added. “This bill says, per parcel, power lines under Lake Champlain. let’s collect the money through that [local tax] bill.”

She also believes state officials could use more time to Bray’s bill would also create a new state utility that map out specific water quality programs. would determine financing and programming for Ver“We think there’s a need to think further about service mont’s clean water efforts going forward. delivery, so we’re not just raising the money, and have a That utility, Bray said, could adjust the fee so that it better idea of what you’re going to do with it once you’ve applies more rigorously to parcels that tend to be most raised it,” Moore said. responsible for water pollution, including parcels with large parking areas, buildings with expansive roofs, and farmland close to waterways.

A 10-year veteran of the Legislature, Bray is prepared for some criticism of his proposal. Talk of raising revenues is always unpopular – especially now, during tough financial

PETPersonals

30 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

Callie - 6-year-old spayed female. Treeing Walker Hound. I’m an adorable lady with unique markings who loves getting lots of love and attention. I am smart and I already know how to “sit” so I’m looking forward to learning more commands while I enjoy playing outside.

Tonka - 3-year-old spayed female. Domestic Short Hair.

Brown tabby. I am a beautiful brown 3-year-old tabby. I came to the shelter after living outside for two years. I have enjoyed returning to life as an indoor cat. I am a bit of a talker so if you are looking for a cat who will give you a hello meow, I am for you.

Alexandra - 1-year-old spayed female. Shepherd mix. I’m a sweet, friendly and outgoing lady who enjoys being with people. I’m on the go and will need a lot of exercise and play time with my new family. I like hanging out with my favorite people and getting lots of love and attention.

Featuring pets from:

RUTLAND COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY LUCY MACKENZIE HUMANE SOCIETY SPRINGFIELD HUMANE SOCIETY

Springfield Humane Society

Cosmo - 9-year-old spayed female. Domestic Long Hair.

Torbie. As you can see I am one big stunning lady! I have gorgeous hair and a shining personality to match. I am a sweet girl who loves attention from my favorite people.

I am not too fond of other cats, dogs and younger children.

Lexi - 4-year-old spayed female. Pit Bull mix. I’m a very playful gal who loves tennis balls! I’m very social, too, and enjoy hanging out with my favorite people. I am especially adorable when I show you how I can “sit pretty.”

Zeus - 8-month-old neutered male. Heeler mix. I’m a sweet, friendly and outgoing guy who enjoys being with people. I’m on-the-go and will need a lot of exercise and play time with my new family. I like hanging out on the sofa and getting lots of love and attention. I’m as cute as can be.

Stacey - 1 1/2-year-old spayed female. Domestic Short Hair. Brown tabby with white. I do well with other cats and older children but I am not sure I like dogs. I am clean and use my litter pan and I would really love to go into a quiet home because I hide when it gets too loud.

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. I will blossom into a snuggle bug once I get to know you. I am not sure if I like cats, but I know I do not like dogs.

Rosa - 2-year-old spayed female. Hound mix. I’m a social, outgoing lady who loves being in the middle of things and getting lots of love and attention. I’m a sweet love bug and I’m looking forward to getting spoiled in my new home. I’m a high-energy gal and I’ll need lots of exercise.

Skip - 1-year-old neutered male. Labrador Retriever mix. I’m cute and silly and fun to be around. I’m very outgoing and playful and I really love toys. I hope my new family stocks up on them for me. I’m an on-thego dog and I’ll need a lot of exercise and play time to keep me happy.

Tinker Bell - 3.5-year-old spayed female. Domestic Short Hair. Brown tabby. I am as cute as can be! I have a super sweet personality and I love all the attention I can get. I am a cuddly little thing and everyone here at the shelter loves to visit with me.

I like other cats and wouldn’t mind having a friend.

Oscar - 5-year-old neutered male. Domestic Short Hair.

Brown tabby. I am a quiet, well-behaved gentleman. I get along well with my cat friends here in the community cat room. I would like to be placed on a healthy diet with no snacks so I can take some weight off and happily live to an old age.

LOU My name is Lou and I am a Hurricane Irma survivor! I am shy, but I am adjusting to life here and slowly making friends. Believe it or not, one thing I really enjoy are dogs and would really like a cat friendly dog in my furever home. Call 802-8853997 for more information or email spfldhumane@ vermontel.net for an application. Stop by 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 4:30 p.m.

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

LITTLE HAT Hi! My name’s Little Hat and I’m a 3-year-old neutered male. I came to Lucy Mackenzie when the shelter I was staying in closed, and I’m glad I did. I’ve always been a little congested and sneezy, and the doctors here have been trying to make me better. They determined that I have something called chronic rhinitis. It’s not that big of a deal, but it means sometimes I have sneezing spells! I take a little medication every other day to keep things at bay. I live in a condo for the time being so my people-friends can tell if I have a flare-up. I am an incredibly sweet and affectionate cat (I just can’t help myself!) and I LOVE belly rubs. My ideal home would be one that has lots of soft beds, patches of sun to snooze in, and people that don’t mind an affectionate and sometimes sneezy cat! If you’ve been looking for a kitty companion that will undoubtedly bring you lots of love and joy, 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 • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 31

A raft of changes

By Cal Garrison, a.k.a. Mother of the Skye

This week’s Horoscopes are coming out under the light of a Libra Moon. It’s time to run out and get our Advent calendars because the 12 Days of Christmas started on Tuesday, Dec. 12. The song that we sing to honor this period of time starts with a partridge in a pear tree and ends with twelve drummers drumming.

With the Holy Days upon us, keeping an eye on the planets may seem like a secondary issue, but it’s not. Between the recent ingress of Mars into Scorpio, and Saturn’s entrance into Capricorn later this month, we’ve got a lot to consider.

For starters, both planets will be ensconced in the signs that they rule. This suggests that the Martian element, which can be like a bull in a china shop, will have an easier time taking the high road. Our motives and actions will draw their power from a spiritual place, and be less inclined to fly off the handle for selfish or egotistical reasons.

With Saturn’s presence in Capricorn, there are bound to be changes when it comes to the Powers That Be. There will also be sweeping changes to the system at large. In any other sign, Saturn can be stubborn, intractable, and geared toward wornout approaches to problems that warrant more awareness and high levels of integrity. When he’s in Capricorn, Saturn holds himself to a higher standard and is able to make difficult choices with the best interests of all held in mind.

What I see coming down is a raft of sweeping change that is ready to hit us at both the personal and collective levels. Anything that is out of integrity, anything that has been camouflaged under the cloak of darkness and deceit, anything that involves misrepresentation and falsehood, along with every last bit of hypocrisy, these things are about to get kicked to the curb. Why? Because it’s time – and because the energies that are filling the atmosphere require all of us to root out anything that stands in the way of our further growth and evolution.

It’s time to get real about walking the walk. It’s time to cultivate enough discernment to see where the truth lies. With the Winter Solstice so close at hand, every trace of corruption needs to be extracted from our repertoire. Within 10 days the spark that will ignite our sense of purpose and our intentions for the New Year will light up the Heart of Creation.

Between now and then doing our part to restore peace to the planet comes down to embodying the truth in our own lives and guiding all of our actions from a unified and spiritually coherent place. Let me leave you with that, and invite you to take what you can from this week’s ‘scopes.

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I

Aries

Cancer

Libra

Capricorn

March 21 - April 20

June 21 - July 20

September 21 - October 20

December 21 - January 20

t would be good if you could review bits of your childhood, just enough to put two and two together regarding your mother.

Her story and yours intertwine in ways that dictate too much of your behavior as an adult.

Cutting the cord, and releasing yourself from the need to relate to your life through that story is imperative. Your future depends upon this. Beyond that you’ve got issues with your kids, and/or your drive for success. It would be a Godsend if you could get real enough to face your demons and deal with them, because everything that’s going on is an inside job.

here are so many things to consider. It’s as if you are between scenes waiting for one set to be broken down and the next one to get set up so that you can figure out what it means to move on to the next thing. If at the moment nothing seems clear, never fear. The empty space between one thing and another is full of truth and light. In our culture there is so much pressure to be forever “on the ball,” the virtues of emptiness elude us. Let whatever’s going on be what it is. If there is sadness and confusion, embrace it. Before too long the fog will lift and you will be back on the ball.

A

short break from whatever the story is would help you immensely. You may even need to step back from things that have become thorns in your side in order to see exactly what the source of your problem is. As much as you want all of this to settle down into a perfectly ordered picture, there are issues that need to be addressed. Before the New Year arrives it would be good to stop the madness and retreat to a place that allows you to face the truth.

Life is not a bowl of cherries. To keep masking the truth is insane.

It’s time to bring it to light and be empowered by it.

N

othing is ever what it seems.

You’ve got so much going on, a degree in psychology would be a Godsend. Suffering from the after effects of other people’s worries, or paying a high price for what you didn’t see coming, could be part of the story. There are no prescriptions or easy answers for how to get through this neck of the woods. Staying true to yourself would help, but some of you are totally out of touch with what that means after years of turning yourself inside out trying to make this work. Everything is a test. This one is your final exam in what it means to see the light.

Taurus

Leo

Scorpio

Aquarius

April 21 - May 20

July 21 - August 20

October 21 - November 20

January 21 - February 20

Y

ou can’t monitor what people do. The most you can do is give them lots of rope, and see what they do with it. This goes both ways, by the way. I say this because it looks like someone’s control issues are screwing things up, one way or another. If it’s you who’s trying to lay down the law what makes you think your rules apply to anyone but you? To those of you who are being expected to go along with anyone’s program but your own, it’s time to get hip to the idea that you could wind up losing yourself to things that will not serve either one of you in the end.

Gemini

W

T

May 21 - June 20

hatever happens in the next few weeks, don’t allow yourself to get sidetracked.

It’s one of those times when you have to be clear enough about your boundaries to know that you can’t afford to be distracted.

Those who depend on, or expect things from you will have to back off a little bit. You may even need to ask them to leave you alone until this stretch is over.

It’s also clear that whatever you are involved in, whether it’s your occupation, or the work that you are doing on yourself, is about to transform your life in ways that will be of benefit to everyone.

Y

ou don’t know how lucky you are. With blessings galore, raining down upon you, don’t take anything for granted.

There could be a tendency to overlook pieces of the puzzle that have come together in the past year. With all of whatever this is about at your disposal, the question now is: “What are you going to do about sharing it?” The only way to increase/improve all of this is to pass it around. As the next few weeks unfold, keep that in mind, knowing that it’s up to you to carry all the light that your heart contains out into the world and shower it upon those who need it most.

T

H

ow you ended up in this situation is less of an issue than the idea that in spite of all your questions it seems to be working for you. As you ponder your position it might help to get real about the fact that sometimes we wind up in the catbird seat. Some of you are looking at the beauty of what it means to finally have all the freedom in the world to fly away from the yoke of responsibilities and the hardships of the past. For now, do your best to savor the moment and look at what could happen once you settle into knowing for sure that your time has come.

I

f you can zero in on the most important thing, and refine the scope of your activities, what is at present too confusing for words will simmer down and become easier to manage. You have fallen victim to what happens to us when we don’t take the time to keep things trimmed as they grow. If you wonder how you’re going to get things to change, start by noticing who and what sucks up too much of your time, and eliminate those influences from your life. In the space that opens up as a result, you’ll hear the voice that knows how many better things you have to do.

Virgo

Sagittarius

Pisces

August 21 - September 20

November 21 - December 20

February 21 - March 20

oo much work has distorted your perspective to the point where you are either burnt out or running on automatic and totally inured to the pressures of the treadmill. The light at the end of the tunnel is on its way.

In a few weeks life will open up long enough for you to stop the madness and simmer down to a more human pace. As you open your eyes to what you could be doing, or to what you are meant to be doing, a whole new phase of expression will be birthed. Get ready for the dawn to break. Your heart is awakening to changes that will blow your mind.

Y

ou keep trying to make this look like it’s got nothing to do with you. For someone who’s so good at letting everyone know how right you are, you have to be able to see that all of this is your baby. Those of you who are ready to clean it up are in better shape than the ones who refuse to be accountable. Everything is on the line. Don’t get up in arms.

Having the courage to back off and address your issues internally will clear away much of the BS and bring the Truth to light. Your strength lies in your willingness to be honest. In this situation, it is your saving grace.

Mother of the Skye

T

he rate of change seems to be equivalent to the extent to which you have tuned in to your truer purpose. That story looks like it includes other people, perhaps those closest to you, people who need you to help them make it through the night. Thank God your heart’s in the right place; at least in most cases. Those of you who are unwilling to rise up and lend a hand wherever it’s needed, will be at a loss when it’s time to pay your dues. The Karma Police don’t mess around. The whole idea of giving whatever it takes to heal people and situations is on top of the stack right now.

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

32 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

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.

STRONG RENTAL 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.

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.

KILLINGTON—2 BDRM 1.5 bath condo, Mountain Green bldg. 2. FP, ski lockers, health club membership. $92K. Owner, 800-576-5696.

LAND FOR SALE: Improved building lot in Killington neighborhood with ski home benefits. Views. Call 802422-9500.

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.

NEED A SKI HOUSE? Check out this 6 Bedroom Rochester Gem! Built in 1912, this charming and spacious, in-town home is set back from the road on 1.2 acres.

Walking distance to Rochester School (K-8), park, grocery store, library, health center and the famous Rochester Café! Excellent Rt. 100 location - only 20 minutes to Killington/Pico and Interstate 89. Large yard backs up to White River - summer rafting & kayaking right out your door! Tons of room for a big family or ideal for ski house group. Don’t miss this great opportunity! Can be seen on Zillow. Priced below appraisal at $259,000. Call 802-7679150 or email lizvhm29@ gmail.com.

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.

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. 802-422-3600, KillingtonPicoRealty.com 2814 Killington Rd., Killington. (next to Choices Restaurant).

www.LouiseHarrison.com REALTOR / Independent Broker since 1998 KRIPALU YOGA TEACHER since 1995

KILLINGTON VALLEY Real Estate PO Box 236, 2281 Killington Rd., Killington. 802422-3610 or 1-800-833-KVRE. Email: kvre@vermontel.net

sexual orientation, or persons receiving public assistance, or an intention to make such preferences, limitation or discrimination.”

RUTLAND SEASONAL RENTAL 2 BR furnished, utilities included. Dec. 15-April 15. $5,000 or monthly. 802345-3913.

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.

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.

K I L L I N G T O N R E N TA L on mountain. One person private room in 3 BR, 2 BA ski house with fireplace. Excellent location. $600 per month, total people in house 3; 2 people in private room $750 per month with 4 people in house total. toughfl@aol.com; 781-7495873.

P E A K P R O P E RT Y R e a l 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.

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,

THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF OUR LISTINGS

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES STORE FOR RENT next to Outback Pizza, approx.

2,500+ sq. ft. Call owner Ron Viccari, 914-217-4390 (cell); 800-694-2250 (office). Let’s make a deal.

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.

KILLINGTON MALL for 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 B R E C K E N R I D G E COLORADO Marriott timeshare, ski in/ski out.

Spacious 1 king BR, 2 bath villa. Sleeps 6. March weeks available. $1,400. 802-4224278.

KILLINGTON SEASONAL rental on mountain, 3 BR, 2 BATH, completely furnished w/ FP, low utilities, excellent location. Just became available. 781-749-5873, 339214-6683, toughfl@aol.com.

KILLINGTON SKI SHARES AVAILABLE - We’re looking for a few skiers & boarders to fill our house. Check us out at www.rustedmoose.com or email iamskibum@gmail.com.

New

OUR CLIENTS ARE #1

Our 45th Year!

Sales & Rentals

As a member of MLS, we can show you all listed properties 802-422-3610 kvre@vermontel.net

ROOMMATE WANTED to share two bedroom apartment at Gateway Condominiums in Mendon with one roommate (Killington Ski Lift Operator). Ten minute bus ride to Killington. Nov. 1, 2017 – April 15, 2018. $3550 for term plus $500 security deposit. Would consider rental payments made monthly. Call Ruth at 917882-9515 or Stephen at 917882-7549.

BRIDGEWATER SHARES h a v e i t y o u r w a y. F U L L AVAILABILITY FOR WORLD CUP! First chair. Ledges ski shares - pick a plan: 1/4 share, 13 nights, $575. 1/2 share, 26 nights, $1,000. Full share, 52 nights, $1,400; or $50 nightly B&B. 6 bdrm contemporary mountain setting, 12 minutes to Killington. Hot tub, full kitchen privileges. Contact Scott, 860-930-0098.

AMAZING MOUNTAIN VIEWS & CLOSE TO KILLINGTON SKYSHIP! Mewly renovated 2 bedroom/1 bath lower unit! Winter seasonal rental!

Available now! $6,900 from Dec 1, 2017 to April 30, 2018. 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.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT: 5 bdrm, above Outback Pizza.

Other apt. is 3 bdrm, above Outback Pizza. Call owner Ron Viccari, 914-217-4390 (cell); 800-694-2250 (office).

CHITTENDEN (Burr Pond, East Pittsford) 1 BR/ 1BA fully furnished with shared laundry and Kitchenette. Utilities included. Quiet, trails, 15 min. to Pico. Seasonal, $5,500.

LouiseHarrison.com, 802747-8444.

Pric

KILLINGTON CONDEX 4 BR, 3 BA, Great Killington location.

Winter views of Killington and Pico, wood-burning fireplace, fully furnished and equipped, excellent rental history.

EXCLUSIVE………………….$199,000

MOUNTAIN GREEN 2-BR, 1.5 BA Nicely upgraded corner condo w/laminate flooring, breakfast bar, new kitchen & appliances. Overlooks the outdoor pool. Also, Interior 2-BR, 2-BA furnished unit $70,000 EXCLUSIVE………................…..$75,000

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

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

Killington Valley Real Estate

Office next to the Wobbly Barn

FOR SALE 2004 CHRYSLER PT Cruiser — Runs well. Winter & Summer tires. Some rust.

80K miles $1,400 or best offer.

Call 802-236-9593.

SET OF 4 Winterforce studded snow tires, 195/65R15. 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.

Need to sell! Please call Julia at 802-483-2020, Rutland Town.

FIREWOOD for sale, we stack. Rudi, 802-672-3719.

SERVICES SNOW PLOWING, sanding.

Seasonal or per time. Call Ryan 802-291-2271.

BEAUREGARD PAINTING, 25 years experience. 802436-1337.

BOOKKEEPING SERVICES of Vermont. QuickBooks software. Accurate and efficient. $28/hour. 802-3456881.

PRIOR FOR HIRE - Handyman services, carpentry and yard.

Call Jeremy Prior, 802-3531806.

WANTED NOW BUYING High quality watches, precious metals, coins & paper money, stamps and historic paper, objects of art and virtue. If it’s rare, fun and beautiful I can help.

Member NAWCC, ANA, APS, NEAA and Vermont’s first legally licensed precious m e t a l s d e a l e r. Tr a d i n g worldwide in the very best personal property, since 1972.

Legitimate sellers ONLY and by appointment only. Royal Barnard 802-775-0085 or email rbarn64850@aol.com.

e!

Louise Harrison Real Estate & Yoga Attention Buyers and Sellers: Private & Group YOGA Classes: Buyer Representation Restorative Wed 5:30 Killington Yoga Listongs Welcome Gentle Flow Sunday 9:30 Chittenden PICO 3 BR Weekly/Weekend Rentals Restorative Sunday 4:00 Chittenden Seasonal & Yearly Rentals Private Classes Available By Appointment 802-775-9999 | 8 Mountain Top Rd. | Louise@LouiseHarrison.com | 808-747-8444

KILLINGTON SEASONAL rental 1 BR, good location, completely furnished, $5,000/ season. 781-749-5873, 339214-6683, toughfl@aol.com.

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

www.killingtonvalleyrealestate.com

EMPLOYMENT SNOWSHOE TOUR GUIDE service is looking to hire PT guide (10-12 hours per week), must be available weekends and holidays and have flexible schedule. Email Lisa at davislewis@hotmail.com or call 978-808-6044.

VACASA is hiring a Senior Housekeeper as well as Seasonal Housekeepers.

Weekend availability and reliable transportation required. $20/hour plus perks.

Visit vacasa.com/careers to apply.

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 33

By Karen D. Lorentz

Meet Wendy Clinch, a.k.a. The Ski Diva

“My love for skiing changed my life completely,” said Wendy Clinch, a creative soul who enjoys flying down ski trails with finesse — and also just happens to have a great story on how she moved to Vermont.

Clinch, who was born in Lakewood, N.J., graduated from Lakewood High School in 1972 and from Syracuse University in 1976. She married Jon Clinch in 1976 and they moved to suburban Philadelphia where they worked in advertising and also had their own ad agency for 20 years.

Having grown up on the Jersey Shore, “where surfing is a lot more common than skiing,” she noted being “heavily into water sports — swimming, boating, etcetera.”

However, at age 13, her family went on vacation “to a small resort in New York State where they had a rope tow, and I was totally hooked,” she recalled.

“Our ski seasons were pretty light,” she said, adding, “We only skied maybe 10 or so times a year.

Occasionally we’d take trips to Vermont — Haystack, Killington, Mount Snow, Bromley. I loved it.”

Q&A with Wendy Clinch MT: So you’ve been skiing ever since your teenage ski trips north?

WC: Actually, after college I stopped skiing completely. As they say, life got in the way. I got married, had Emily, started working, and just kind of let it go.

[Daughter Emily Bryk is now a middle school science teacher in New York State.]

MT: When did you return to the sport?

WC: One day, when I was 40, Jon suggested we take a ski trip, and it was like handing a crack pipe to an addict. I started skiing again with a vengeance, and I haven’t looked back since.

MT: How’d you end up in Vermont?

WC: Once we got into skiing, we started coming up to Killington and Okemo pretty regularly. At first we had a season rental, but we ended up buying a place in Plymouth in 2004. Then, in 2007, we moved here full time.

MT: How were you able to do that?

WC: Jon had been writing on the side, and he sold his first novel, “Finn,” to Random House. It ended up being named one of the year’s best novels by The Washington Post, The Christian Science Monitor, and The Chicago Tribune.

Finn set us free.

We closed our ad agency, sold our house in PA, and moved.

Jon followed “Finn” with Kings of The Earth, and

By Karen D. Lorentz

WENDY CLINCH The Thief of Auschwitz.

MT: He’s also plays guitar right?

WC: Yes, sometimes he plays solo and sometimes with members from Gypsy Reel, a local Celtic band.

He plays in local restaurants like Bentley’s, the Woodstock Inn, Stemwinders, and the Public House.

MT: So living here, you can ski more now?

WC: I think I’m making up for lost time. I’ve been able to ski most every weekday. I have my season pass at Okemo, but I get around to as many of the Vermont resorts as possible. Each one has something special to offer, and I love them all.

MT: How did TheSkiDiva.com come about?

WC: I didn’t have any female friends who skied so in 2006 I started TheSkiDiva.com, an online community for women who love to ski. And now I have tons of ski friends all over the world.

MT: You won a Harold Hirsch award for best ski blog on TheSkiDiva.com last year — can you tell us more about your blog and SkiDiva?

WC: TheSkiDiva has two parts: an online community and a blog.

The blog, which won the award, is where I post interviews, reviews — really, all sorts of things related to skiing and the outdoors.

TheSkiDiva community is a bit different. It’s more of a place where women skiers can come together to converse about anything and everything skirelated in a testosterone-free environment. There’s everyone from beginners to the highest levels of experts; from women who know very little about equipment and technique to those with vast stores of expertise. There are loads of firsthand gear reviews and discussions about various ski destinations.

And there’s a lot of great advice, like what to do when you think your skiing has plateaued or how to handle fear or even why more women aren’t skiing. With about 5,200 registered members, TheSkiDiva has become the leading online community for women skiers. It’s a wonderful, supportive, and respectful place.

MT: You’ve also become an author with skiing figuring into your books, right?

WC: I’ve written two ski mysteries – “Double Black” and “Fade To White.” Both focus on a young woman who leaves her cheating fiancé to become a ski bum in a small Vermont town.

I’ve always found the culture and environment of ski towns particularly fascinating. There’s a real contrast between the locals, who are trying to go about their ordinary lives, and the out-of-staters who come to the area for short periods of time and then go back home. Each depends on the other, yet both have entirely different perspectives. It’s a huge culture clash. I thought it would be interesting to write about how both of these groups work together to solve a murder.

MT: What do you love about Vermont?

WC: Absolutely everything. I love the mountains, the outdoor lifestyle, the scenery, and the lack of big box stores, shopping malls, and traffic.

People have suggested that I might prefer living out West because the skiing’s bigger. I’ve been out West, and it’s not for me. I’m an East Coast person, and no place else comes close to what I find here in Vermont. I feel very lucky to live here.

MT: Any advice or words of wisdom: WC: I know this may sound trite, but it’s true: Do what you love, and happiness will follow. That’s what I’ve done, and it’s made a world of difference.

Classifieds continued from page 32 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.

ON THE ROCS - All positions. Chef-prep cookbartenders-servers. Please call to inquire or apply in person: 2384 Killington Road, Killington; 802-422-3636.

INN AT LONG TRAIL seeking experienced cook (short order, breakfast or dinner)/ prep cook. Pay commensurate with experience. Will train competent and motivated individual. Weekends and holidays a must. Call 802775-7181 or email resume or brief work history to patty@ innatlongtrail.com to set up interview appointment.

MOGULS SEEKING: Line cooks, wait staff; full time and part time work available. 802422-4777. Apply daily, open 7 days.

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.

CHOICES RESTAURANT is accepting applications for parttime host and experienced line cook. Call 802-4224030 or email resume to claudeschoices@yahoo.com.

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.

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.

Want to submit a Email classified? classifieds@ mountaintimes.info or call 802-422-2399. Rates are 50 cents per word, per week; free ads are free.

A Musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film

DECEMBER 22ND • 7 PM DECEMBER 23RD • 2 PM & 7 PM PARAMOUNT THEATRE, CENTER STREET, RUTLAND VT

rutlandrec.com/theatre TICKETS: $10 CHILDREN/SENIORS • $12 ADULTS WWW.PARAMOUNTVT.ORG • 802-775-0903

34 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES ERA.com

MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

3x10.5 10/5/17

1572 KILLINGTON ROAD. KILLINGTON Unique duplex home on the Killington Road, yet private and secluded. One unit: 6 bedrooms, 3 baths, built in 1963; other unit: 2 bedrooms, 2 1/5 baths & 2 car garage built in 1991. All the units can be combined into an 8 bedroom, 5.5 bath single family enclave with interior access or they can be used as individual units with separate outside entrances--very flexible, open layout with plenty of natural light. Located half way up the road to the ski area, this property is located in the HEART of the commercial district giving you a myriad of options for use. Restaurants, nightclubs & shops are close by, yet they don’t infringe upon your privacy. The 2 acre (COMMERCIAL) parcel with FRONTAGE on the KILLINGTON ROAD is the last of the large commercial properties within the commercial zone and close to the ski area. This extra acreage is noted and can be included in this offering. Seller is a licensed Vermont Real Estate Broker. $450,000 w/ 1 acre, $675,000ROAD, w/ 3 acres 1572 KILLINGTON KILLINGTON

504 ELBOW ROAD, KILLINGTON ERA.com Stunning mountain home nestled in a quiet neighborhood behind renowned Green Mountain National Golf Course. A large, eat-in chef’s kitchen, open dining and living room centered on a beautiful stone faced fireplace and inviting sunroom are only the beginning of the beauty this home exudes. Whether you make this your full time residence or peaceful mountain get away this property is sure to impress. Located just minutes from the bustling Killington access road with world class skiing and mountain biking, yet tucked away in peaceful privacy you have the best of both worlds! $679,000

Unique duplex home on the Killington Road, yet private and secluded. One unit: 6 bedrooms, 3 baths, built in 1963; other unit: 2 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths & 2 car garage built in 1991. All the units can be combined into an 8 bedroom, 5.5 bath single family enclave with interior access or they can be used as individual units with separate outside entrances--very flexible, open layout with plenty of natural light. Located half way up the road to the ski area, this property is located in the HEART of the commercial district giving you a myriad of options for use. Restaurants, nightclubs & shops are close by, yet they don’t infringe upon your privacy.

The 2 acre (COMMERCIAL) parcel with FRONTAGE on the KILLINGTON ROAD is the last of the large commercial properties within the commercial zone and close to the ski area. This extra acreage is noted and can be included in this offering. Seller is a licensed Vermont Real Estate Broker. $450,000 w/ 1 acre, $675,000 w/ 3 acres

504 ELBOW ROAD, KILLINGTON

Stunning mountain home nestled in a quiet neighborhood behind renowned Green Mountain National Golf Course. A large, eat-in chef’s kitchen, open dining and living room centered on a beautiful stone faced fireplace and inviting sunroom are only the beginning of the beauty this home exudes. Whether you make this your full time residence or peaceful mountain get away this property is sure to impress. Located just minutes from the bustling Killington access road with world class skiing and mountain biking, yet tucked away in peaceful privacy you have the best of both worlds! $679,000

FROG CITY FARM, PLYMOUTH 406 ROARING BROOK ROAD, KILLINGTON Perfect Family Farm minutes to Killington and OkeQuality craftsmanship and extras run throughout this mo! This beautifully laid out property on 193 acres has wonderfully maintained home with views of the Killing- been home to plenty of multi-generational bashes and ton Ski Area. The house has a light, open and entertain- provides a warm, inviting feel from the moment you arment-friendly layout. The finished space includes a large rive. The Farmhouse was built C. 1900 and has recently deck with a hot tub cabana with dramatic winter views been renovated to an exceptional condition. Two 4 bay of Killington. It includes a large fieldstone fireplace, car- garages, multiple fields, and a myriad of trails throughpet and tile throughout and a designer kitchen. Access out the property offer a strong Equestrian potential by is level along a paved curving driveway. The 900 square easily converting any garage bay or bays into stalls. The foot garage with oversize doors is heated and provides barn and attached silo are unlike any you could begin to easy direct access to the mud-room and the rest of the imagine and truly must be seen! If the 9-hole disc golf house. The master suite features two walk-in closets course, paddle tennis and private ski trails still leave you and a tiled bathroom with a double shower. There are seeking rejuvenation, sneak away to your private off cathedral ceilings in the dining room, kitchen and liv- grid cabin for a Vermont experience that is certain to BROOK ROAD, KILLINGTON FARM, ing room406 withROARING 9 foot ceilings throughout the rest of the capture your heart. FROG There CITY is more thanPLYMOUTH meets the eye Qualityfloor. craftsmanship and extras throughoutlandscaped this wonderfully Perfect Family Farm minutes yourself, to Killingtonthe and more Okemo! time This beauti main The house sits run beautifully onmaintained 3.6 with this property; prepare youfully laid out home with views of the Killington Ski Area.

The house has a light, open and enproperty on 193 acres has been home to -generational bashes and acres with your own tranquil pond. $1,400,000 spend here, the more you will love it.plenty of multi $1,450,000 tertainment-friendly layout. The finished space includes a large deck with a hot tub cabana with dramatic winter views of Killington. It includes a large fieldstone fireplace, carpet and tile throughout and a designer kitchen. Access is level along a paved curving driveway. The 900 square foot garage with oversize doors is heated and provides easy direct access to the mud-room and the rest of the house.

The master suite features two walk-in closets and a tiled bathroom with a double shower. There are cathedral ceilings in the dining room, kitchen and living room with 9 foot ceilings throughout the rest of the main floor. The house sits beautifully landscaped on 3.6 acres with your own tranquil pond. $1,400,000

provides a warm, inviting feel from the moment you arrive. The Farmhouse was built C. 1900 and has recently been renovated to an exceptional condition. Two 4 bay garages, multiple fields, and a myriad of trails throughout the property offer a strong Equestrian potential by easily converting any garage bay or bays into stalls.

The barn and attached silo are unlike any you could begin to imagine and truly must be seen! If the 9-hole disc golf course, paddle tennis and private ski trails still leave you seeking rejuvenation, sneak away to your private off grid cabin for a Vermont experience that is certain to capture your heart. There is more than meets the eye with this property; prepare yourself, the more time you spend here, the more you will love it. $1,450,000

573 TANGLEWOOD DRIVE, 1660 KILLINGTON ROAD, 542 COFFEEHOUSE ROAD, KILLINGTON KILLINGTON KILLINGTON very unique 2.17 acre parcel on the A very well-maintained and gen- This is a wonderful 3 bedroom, 3 A Killington Road in the Commercial bath home with a screened patio and tly used vacation home located in attached 2 car garage plus a paved District, with over 360 feet of road the heart of Killington skiing. This frontage and great sight lines. One Beautiful gardens and a 5 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home fea- driveway. of the last LARGE COMMERCIAL LOTS tennis court compliment the propertures an open, vaulted ceiling with the Killington Road; it is close to fireplace in the living and dining ty which consists of 2.78± acres on on commercial activity and the Killington a paved Town Road.

This single level area. Lower floor features a sepa- home is located in the Killington Ele- Ski Area. Uses include: restaurant, 573entrance TANGLEWOOD DRIVE, 642 RICHARDSON ROAD, KILLINGTON 542 COFFEEHOUSE ROAD, KILLINGTON rate creating anKILLINGTON ‘in-law/ A very well-maintained and gently used vacation home loA rare offering in the wilds of Killington!

A spectacular owner builtnightclub, off-grid This isshops/stores/offices, a wonderful 3 bedroom, 3hotel, bath home with a School District, with a school rental’ potential.

Eastskiing. facing is2 1/2mentary cated in the heart of Killington This 5 deck bedroom, logstop cabin retreat that lies literally at the the end driveway. of the road on 20 acres in the ski screened patiPublic o and attsewer ached 2 is carat garage and lodge. theplus a paved bus adjacent to perfect thean open, morning Sepabath home for features vaulted sun. ceiling with fireplace famed Chateauguay-No-town wilderness area of central Vermont. Mod- driveway. Beautiful gardens and a tennis court compliment lotstoryboundary easy hookup.

Curb TheernGreen National Golfthe two in the living and dining area. Lower area floor features a sepakitchen withMountain gas appliances, massive fireplace highlights the propertyfor which consists of 2.78± acres on a paved Town rate garage w/ storage below cut is in place for easy driveway Course is very close by and both Pico rate entrance creatingadditions an ‘in-law/rental’ potential.enEast fac- great room. Den/sitting room with additional woodstove. Full sized large Road. This single level home is located inacthe Killington Elgrade.

Recent include cess.

Located half way up the road tostop adjacent and Killington Ski Areas are within ing deck is perfect for the morning sun.

Separate garage w/ four piece bathroom.

Two large sleeping loft s above the great room are ementary School District, with a school bus try/mudroom and an updated kitchstorage area below grade. Recent additions include entry/ via separate Large wrap around deck with pleasing the driveway.

Green Mountain National Golf Course the skito area, this The property is located easyaccessed access.

Thestairwells. semi-finished baseen.

Close to Killington ski area, area mudroom and an updated kitchen. Close to Killington ski localruns views. A full sizedlength basement with car garage.

Gravity fedinspring close by bothCOMMERCIAL Pico and Killington Ski Areas are theis very HEART ofandthe ment the ofonethe house. golfing, hiking and $330,000 area, area golfi ng, hiking andbiking. biking. $330,000 water supplies the house at the turn of a valve. A generator, three sources within easy access. The semi-finished basement runs the DISTRICT. Seller is a licensed Ver- $375,000 A definite see! $375,000 of wood heatmust and gas lighti ng make this home livable year round! Only 20 length of the house. A definite must see! mont Real Estate Broker. $325,000 minutes to Killington’s Skyeship gondola and all the charms of Woodstock!

Being sold well below assessed value.

$155,000

ERA.com ERA.com

802-775-0340 802-775-0340

1913 US Route PO137, Box 137, Killington, VT 05751 1913 US Route 4, PO 4, Box Killington, VT 05751 Independently and operated Independently ownedowned and operated

Walter Findeisen Walter Findeisen Doug Quatchak Doug Quatchak Kaitlyn Hummel Kaitlyn Hummel Greg Stefurak Greg Stefurak

The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017 • 35

Prestige Real Estate of Killington Exclusively Killington!

Condos

Featured Properties

SKI IN SKI OUT

Trail Creek connecting units

Trail Creek: 1BR 1BA $115K 1BR 1BA + loft $159K 2BR 2BA starting at $159.9K 2BR 2BA + loft $239K

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

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

Topridge: 3BR 4BA townhome $619K Sunrise: (3) remodeled 1BR units starting at $145K 2BR 2BA $159K 3BR 3BA on trail $265K Pico Village: 2BR 2BA + loft $189K 3BR 2BA $199K Pico Townhouse: 2BR 2BA $129K

SKI HOME SHUTTLE OUT

Land

Topridge unit w/Bear Mt view 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

Woods townhomes

KILLINGTON BASIN

One 2‐bedroom and two 3‐bedroom spacious townhomes located at a premier destination spa in Killington. Full access to all spa amenities.

Starting at $159.9K

The Woods: 2BR 2.5BA townhome $159.9K (2) 3BR 3.5BA townhomes $199.9K & $215K

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

SkiCountryRealEstate.com • 802.775.5111

Serving Killington, Pittsfield, Stockbridge, Mendon, Chittenden, Bridgewater & Plymouth MINUTES TO THE SLOPES

• 6BR,4BA, 2 F/Places, 1 Acre • REC RM with Billiard table • Spacious Kitchen W/Island • Master BR/Bath. New Roof, • New Windows,flooring&wet bar • $695,000

MTN GREEN #1&2

STUDIO: $59K 2 BR + LOFT: $180K POOL & SPORTS CENTER

SKI IN & SHUTTLE OUT CONDOS HIGHRIDGE TRAIL CREEK

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

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

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

LOCATION; JUST LIKE NEW!

TELEMARK VILLAGE

THE WOODS

2BR+LOFT, 3BA, SOUTH EXPOSURE, $245K DECK, WASHER & DRYER, POOL & TENNIS FINISHED WALKOUT BASEMENT W/BATH FURNISHED & EQUIPPED

SPACIOUS CONTEMPORARY

• 5BR/3BA, 19 Ac, 2-car garage • South West Mtn range views • Mud room, game room • Sauna/jet tub/furnished • Guest wing w/den $545K

WINTER MTN VIEWS

PICO VILLAGE

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

HOME NEAR REC. CTR.

• 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

SKI IN & SKI OUT

SHUTTLE TO & FROM

3BR, 3.5BA, $189K FLAT & PAVED PARKING. WD BURNING FIREPLC, BAR SPORTS CENTER WITH INDOOR POOL & EXERCISE EQUIPMT. TENNIS COURTS.

WALK TO A TRAIL

• 4BR, 3BA, LG. mud/entry RM • Long range MTN views • REC RM, outside Hot Tub • LG open CTR Fireplace • Sauna, on a cul-de-sac.

• $555,000

2BR+LOFT/2.5 BATH

• UPDATED cabinets, appliances, granite counters • Washer/Dryer Laundry RM • Ssuna, outdoor hot tub • Outdoor shed for storage • $240,000

SPECTACULAR MTNSIDE RETREAT!

• Ski trail & valley views • Beautiful stone & woodwork • Radiant Heat & Central Air • Steam shower & hot tub • Davis Timber frame • $1,525,000.

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

WALK TO TRAIL

NEAR GREEN MTN NTL GOLF COURSE!

• Just like new! 3BR/3BA suites • Granite, maple floors, ½ BA, 5Ac • Open floor plan w/cathedral ceiling • Garage: heated, tall doors & storage House Generator, large deck $599K

• 4BR/3BA home w/wood stove • Furnished & equipped • Detached garage w/1BR apt.

• Washer/dryer, new indoor oil tank $345K

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

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REALTOR

• 5BR/3BA,new carpet, granite appliances. Hot tub room.

• baths w/radiant heat • wood-beamed kitch-din-liv rm • long distant mtn range views • 2 living areas, Mudroom • 200 feet to Home Stretch Trail metal roof, furnished $649K

36 • The Mountain Times • Dec. 13-19, 2017

Less work, MORE play.

The 4.0 college pass is a season long education in the value of more winter.

399

$

=

4 resorts 0 blackout days

4.0 The College Pass is valid at Killington, Okemo, Pico and Sunapee.

Valid through December 15, 2017, price increases to $439 on 12/16/2017. Buy at killington.com/thecollegepass, or call 800-887-3257.

All season pass sales are non-refundable and subject to 7% applicable state and local taxes. Purchaser must be