2025 Program | Winter Ball Casino Night

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LOCATION LOCATION! WALK TO GONDOLA

$1,600,000

Amazing location for full time or vacation style living! This delightful retreat has five bedrooms and 3 ½ baths. The central focus of the home is a beautiful oversized open kitchen with a Viking Stove, ice-maker and three dishwashers for entertaining guests. Living room and dining room are graced with a beautiful floor to cathedral ceiling stone fireplace with similar fireplace in den. Reading/sitting area also has a round fireplace. Enjoy easy access to decks and outdoor living. Attached two car garage and an outside storage shed. Beautifully landscaped grounds to take a stroll through. The large room over the garage with separate outside entrance has morphed through the years from a media room to an in-law’s apartment to it’s present use as a yoga studio. It also has a sink, dishwasher and refrigerator. Easily this room can be closed off from the main house allowing it to be self sustaining. Come and see this treasure of a home! Sports Club Bond available with buyer paying transfer fee!

GO SMS!

And thank you Parents, Teachers, Coaches, Support Sta and Carson for allowing us to assist in the Buying and Selling of your homes.

MEET OUR TEAM

Lauren Behm REALTOR® 802-881-5481

Cindy Mitrani REALTOR® 760-715-4599

Sandy Laserte REALTOR® 978-340-3510

Christina Dryden REALTOR® 802-855-1587

Lynn Rawson REALTOR® 802-681-3185

Elyn Bischof REALTOR®, Broker/Owner 802-380-2969

Terry Hill REALTOR® 802-342-7335

Bob Maisey REALTOR® Broker 802-375-4582

CONTACT US FOR THE CURRENT MARKET VALUE OF YOUR HOME!

Guests of the winter ball,

Welcome to the annual Stratton Mountain School winter ball, a tradition in Stratton for over 50 years. Tonight, we gather with joy to celebrate and rally support for our school.

This event holds special significance in our ongoing mission to champion the dreams of SMS student athletes; this is especially important, considering that over 50 percent rely on financial aid. We express heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, donors, advertisers, and volunteers whose unwavering dedication has made this evening possible. Tonight is a celebration and reflection on the lasting impact of businesses, individuals, and parents who have supported the winter ball and its mission throughout the years.

As the exclusive gala event in Stratton, the winter ball embodies the spirit of celebration and the profound impact of collective generosity on the dreams we nurture. Initiated by the Hellman and Tarinelli families, who generously spearheaded the inception of Stratton Mountain School, the winter ball stands as a testament to our community’s long-standing legacy of giving.

The SMS student experience is defined by hard work, dedication, and commitment. Whether achieving Olympic gold, national team placements, or academic milestones, we take immense pride in fostering well-rounded individuals dedicated to excellence.

Your presence tonight is a testament to our community’s shared pursuit of excellence. Thank you for being part of this legacy of support and celebration at the 2025 SMS Winter Ball Casino Night.

With gratitude,

Stratton Mountain School

offered in the live auction.

Meredith Powers, Class of 2025
Meredith captures the essence of life at SMS— skiing and riding on the hill with teammates and making unforgettable memories. This artwork will be
11 Founders Hill Rd | Winhall

Howard & Ivy Cubell

Juan Eduardo Ibanez

Rocco & Colette Lettieri

The Needell Family - Ben & Kathy Needell and Jonathan ‘88 & Christine Needell

Stratton Mountain Resort

Dear friends of SMS,

A great welcome to the 2025 Winter Ball Casino Night, a night to Bet On Excellence. This night has been designed for fun, giving, and entertainment that will also celebrate the greatness of Stratton Mountain School.

Giving is one of the pillars that helps SMS continuously evolve. Your presence and support contribute to a legacy that goes beyond the SMS campus. Events like the gala help support the exceptional student athletes while fostering a spirit of giving. Since its inception in 1972, SMS has established an outstanding record of producing exceptional student athletes. Our efforts and your generosity tonight honor this tradition and allow us to continue to grow. Most important, our combined efforts provide financial support to our students, giving them the ability to participate in our extraordinary academic and athletic environment.

Thank you to the SMS parents, faculty, staff, and coaches for your continuous support and encouragement. Your commitment to the success of our student athletes has created a legacy of excellence that we proudly celebrate tonight. The winter ball owes its success to the enduring support of our community members and businesses, both near and far.

We would like to give a special acknowledgment to the winter ball committee, whose timeless dedication has seamlessly helped create this wonderful evening.

We hope you will celebrate with us tonight and continue supporting our excellence tradition. We are forever grateful to be part of this unique, exceptional and supportive community. We wish you an evening filled with generosity and warm connections all in the spirit of giving.

Warm regards,

Colette Lettieri and Charlotte Neeves Winter Ball Event Co-Chairs

Jim Ryan

Bob and Marianne Stevenish II

Britt Wohler ‘07

George ‘84 & Michelle Abdow

Dominick & Nicole Lio

Kristin Luckenbill ‘97

Ed & Andrea Sessa Sayago ‘93

Carson Thurber ‘02 & Ali Wassick And

2025 Live Auction Preview

EXPERIENCE

This exclusive package offers a weekend of Alpine bliss and features a family membership to the Hermitage Club. Enjoy a two-night stay in a newly- renovated slopeside condo with two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace. Indulge in lunch at the Hermitage clubhouse or mid-mountain, and take a private mountain tour with the donor. Experience a luxurious snowcat ride around the mountain, and dine on a seasonal, locallysourced menu at the award-winning Hermitage Inn with a $300 gift certificate. Contact the donor for booking details. Value - $7,500

Donated by Jim Ryan

ADVENTURE

Take to the skies with a private flight for three, piloted by Victor Rivas, and soar over the stunning New England landscape to Martha’s Vineyard. Once you land on the island, enjoy a round of golf for three with the donor at the exclusive Vineyard Golf Club in Edgartown, MA. This package includes transportation to and from the Rutland airport from SMS, and is available on a mutually agreed-upon date with the pilot and golf outing donor. A unique experience combining aviation and world-class golf! Value - $6000

Donated by Victor & Katie Rivas and Jeff Bennett ‘87

#BETONEXCELLENCE

Own this stunning student artwork by Meredith Powers ‘25, capturing the essence of skiing and riding on the mountain with your SMS teammates. The winning bidder will take home this unique piece and enjoy an exclusive, catered dinner at the Head of School’s home with Carson and Ali, Meredith, and five guests prepared by Chef Erik Peckel. Value - Priceless

Donated by Meredith Powers ‘25 and Erik Peckel Catering

SAUNA SANCTUARY

Transform your wellness routine with a two-person infrared sauna (Sun & Soul Sun-2i). This luxurious sauna has enhanced audio sound, digital keypad controls, color light therapy, built-in reading lights, and therapeutic heating technology. Featuring far infrared spectrum heaters for even heat distribution and chromatherapy for added relaxation, it’s the perfect sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. Enjoy Bluetooth® music capabilities as you unwind in style. Please note: delivery and installation are not included. Value - $6099

Donated by Matt & Beth Boyle

ESCAPE TO ST. MARTIN

Escape to paradise with a five-night stay for six guests in a luxurious Creole-style villa at Terres Basses, St. Martin. With stunning beach views and direct access to some of the Caribbean’s finest white sand beaches, this villa offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear sea or lounging by your private pool while savoring a gourmet in-villa meal prepared by a private chef. Enjoy shared access to estate tennis courts and a gym, ensuring a perfect balance of relaxation and activity. This trip must be booked within one year of purchase, and is subject to availability from mid-April to mid-December (excluding Thanksgiving week). Located just 15 minutes from Princess Juliana International Airport on the French side of the island, Terres Basses is your luxurious Caribbean retreat. Please note: travel dates are subject to availability. Value: $8250

#BetOn Class Baskets

On the evening of the winter ball, make your way to the stage to place a bid on the annual class baskets. These incredible baskets are brimming with exceptional items, all generously donated and curated by our current parents to support the need-based financial aid fund.

SMS MIDDLE SCHOOL

#bet on vermont

CLASS OF 2028

#bet on wellness

CLASS OF 2027

#bet on beingsnowedin

CLASS OF 2026

#bet on adventure

CLASS OF 2025

#bet on gamenight

CLASS OF 2025

#bet on après

Dear winter ball guests,

On behalf of the Stratton Mountain School board of trustees, we welcome you to the 2025 winter ball. This cherished event is a continuation of our time-honored tradition, made possible by the steadfast support of the SMS community. Your generosity directly impacts our student athletes, playing a crucial role in the success we have enjoyed for over 50 years.

From our beginnings as a winter-term program to the thriving World Cup Circle campus we have today, remarkable milestones have marked our journey. With over 125 national team placements, 75 Olympic honors, and numerous students admitted to top-tier colleges, our legacy is a testament to the dedication of all who have contributed to our success.

Your presence here tonight is deeply appreciated, and your ongoing support is vital to the continued strength of our community. Thank you for helping to shape the extraordinary achievements of SMS, and for being an integral part of our legacy.

The board of trustees would also like to honor the memory of the late Morton T. Saunders, whom we sadly lost this month. Through over two decades of service on the board, Morton’s remarkable contributions to SMS left a lasting impact on our school. He was a dedicated advocate for SMS and always looked forward to attending the winter ball, and sharing his passion for the school with family and friends.

Here’s to another memorable winter ball and the continued success of Stratton Mountain School.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

With gratitude,

Robert J. Stevenish, II, Board Chair

Managing Director

Citigroup Global Markets Past Parent,Alpine

Jonathan Needell ‘88, Board Vice-Chair President and CIO

Kairos Investment Management Company

Darcy C. Ahl '80

Principal

Ahl Berrien & Partners, LLC Past Parent,Alpine

Brian J. Anton

Managing Director

Santander

Allison Barber Past Parent,Alpine

A. Jeffrey R. Bennett '87 Entrepreneur

Gary S. Davis Director and Principal DKR Capital, Inc.

Kristin S. Luckenbill '97

Principal Heidrick & Struggles

Morton T. Saunders In Memoriam CEO, Retired, Founder Dixon & Saunders Printing Morton passed away in January 2025 after more than 20 years of service to the Board.

Andrea Sessa Sayago '93 Chief Compliance Officer and Associate General Counsel

Sound Point Capital Management, LP Current Parent, Freeski

Rose Serels

Past Parent, Freestyle

Carson A. Thurber '02 Head of School, ex-officio

Pictured from left: MortT. Saunders (In Memory), Bob Stevenish and DarcyAhl

2025 WINTER BALL MENU

Wild Card Appetizers

CharcuteSKI Table Local Cheeses, Cured Meats, Dried Fruits, Nuts, Breads & Crackers

Passed Appetizers

Grape, Cheese & Rosemary Skewers Shrimp Cocktail Lamb Meatballs Tuna Tartare Cones

Trump Card Carving Station

Ace of Hearts Beef Tenderloin Roulette Rosemary Roasted “Red & Black” Potatoes Individual Salad Cups

Full House Pasta Station

Tortellini Cavatapi Linguini

Marinara Vodka Sauce Saffron Cream Sauce

Sausage Shrimp & Mussels Meatballs Trio of Roasted Vegetables

All In Dessert & Coffee Station

Poker Chip Cookies Lucky #7 Cupcakes Cake Pops Gold Coins Chocolates Coffee

Erik Peckel Catering

Winter Ball Casino Night

Welcome to a night where the stakes are high, and the rewards are even greater. At Winter Ball Casino Night, it’s not just about rolling the dice or hitting 21—it’s about making a difference. As you sit at the casino tables and try your luck, remember that every chip you place and every raffle ticket you buy supports a vital cause: our SMS Need-based Financial Aid Fund.

• The casino tables will be open from 6:00 pm - 8:50 pm

• We have six blackjack, three roulette, and a craps table, sponsored by members of our community.

• The 21 Nights Entertainment dealers are happy to help with instructions on how to play each game.

• Each guest will receive $500 in casino cash.

• Casino cash may be purchased at the tables by showing your bid paddle. We will add the amount to your winter ball account.

DOLLAR EXCHANGE FOR CASINO CASH

• $100 = $1000 in casino cash

• $50 = $500 in casino cash

• $20 = $200 in casino cash

• $10 = $100 in casino cash

SILVER MEDAL RAFFLE

$50 a ticket or $500 casino cash

Winter Ball Casino Night

The raffle prize containers are located on the stage—the SMS Podium Raffle Prizes close at 9:30 pm, once all casino cash has been exchanged for raffle tickets.

GOLD MEDAL RAFFLE

$125 a ticket or $1000 casino cash

The High-Stakes Treasure

Get ready for the ultimate win of the evening with the Gold Medal Raffle Prize—a dazzling 18-karat yellow gold and diamond bracelet sculpted by the renowned designer Audrius Krulis and graciously donated by Von Bargen's Jewelry. This masterpiece, valued at $9,800, is the ultimate jackpot for those with an eye for elegance and luxury.

Like a rare gem at the heart of a winning hand, this bracelet combines the brilliance of diamonds with the timeless beauty of 18-karat gold, making it a prize you’ll want to wear every day. Step up to the table and roll the dice for your chance to take home this extraordinary piece of jewelry—because sometimes, the house really does win. Value: $9800

Donated by Von Bargen’s Jewelry

#1: The NYC Jackpot Experience: The Kelly Clarkson Show & Dining at Avra

Your chance to win big is here—and this raffle prize isn’t just about the thrill of the game. By participating, you’re entering for a chance to enjoy an exclusive day in New York. Start with a visit to The Kelly Clarkson Show and be part of the live audience, and experience the energy and excitement of one of the most popular talk shows in the world. After the show, indulge in a gourmet dinner at Avra in Rockefeller Center, known for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine and sophisticated ambiance. With this prize, you’ll experience the best of New York City entertainment and dining—creating memories that will last long after the night is over. Value: Priceless. Donated by The Kelly Clarkson Show and Chris & Nevin Djoganopoulis

#2: Ace of Boston: Red Sox Suite Tickets & Hilton Stay

Step up to the plate for a grand slam experience in the heart of Boston! This exclusive package brings you the best of the city's sports, luxury, and hospitality, with four suite tickets to a Red Sox game at Fenway Park—one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the world. Enjoy the game from the comfort of a private suite, offering unbeatable views, upscale amenities, and a VIP experience.

But that’s not all! After the game, unwind with an overnight stay at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Boston, just a short distance from Fenway Park. Enjoy the comfort and luxury of one of the city's finest hotels, where world-class service and modern amenities await.

Whether you’re a die-hard Red Sox fan or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway, this raffle prize is a home run in every way. Don't miss your chance to experience the perfect combination of sports, style, and relaxation in the Ace of Boston package. Value: $2500. Donated by Bethany & Pete Lebish and Hilton Hotels

#3: The High Stakes Jones Beach Experience

Take your evening to the next level with this exclusive concert package. This raffle prize includes four premium tickets to an unforgettable performance of your choice at the legendary Jones Beach Theater, VIP parking for seamless arrival, and access to a private club lounge where you can relax in luxury. This high-stakes experience guarantees a night of music and elegance that’s worth the gamble. Some restrictions apply. Value: $1500. Donated by John Hammond

BRONZE

MEDAL RAFFLE

$25 a ticket or $250 casino cash

#1 The Culinary Royal Flush at The Reluctant Panther

Indulge in a dining experience that’s nothing short of a jackpot. This exclusive prize includes a three-course dinner for two at The Reluctant Panther, located in the heart of Manchester, Vermont. Savor a menu crafted with precision and elegance, featuring locally inspired dishes that are sure to dazzle your palate. Value: $145. Donated by The Reluctant Panther

#2 The Black Ember Grill High Roller Experience

Take a seat at the table and savor a dining experience that’s a sure bet at West Dover’s hottest new spot, the Black Ember Grill. Known for its scratch cooking with seasonal ingredients over live fire, this prize includes dinner for two at a restaurant that’s quickly become a top card in Vermont’s culinary scene. Value: $300. Donated by Rich & Laurie Caplan

#3 All In at the Fire Tower

Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience for two at The Fire Tower in Stratton Mountain Village. Known for its exceptional cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere, this prize offers a chance to enjoy a memorable evening at one of the area’s top culinary destinations. Value: $200. Donated by Bobby Montuoro

A key financial foundation for any school is a robust endowment. Endowments safeguard the school through fluctuating economic conditions. Established in 2004, the Stratton Mountain School endowment fund stands at $3.4M and is earmarked for the school’s long-term financial health and to provide need-based financial aid for deserving student athletes. We aim to build the endowment to $5M, with a goal of $10M in order to have meaningful annual draws for the school and need-based financial aid.

Founded by Warren Hellman and Donald Tarinelli in 1972, Stratton Mountain School celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022. SMS has grown from a small school housed in the Hellman and Tarinelli chalets, then relocated to the Hotel Tyrol, and finally settled on our beautiful 10-acre campus. From its inaugural class of seven student athletes to the current enrollment of 146, SMS is proud of our 125 national team members, 75 Olympians, and a remarkable college-placement record.

The Hellman-Tarinelli Society honors the Hellman and Tarinelli families’ foresight and generosity, and recognizes donors who make a gift to the SMS endowment of $2022 or greater. Members will be invited to an annual reception hosted at SMS by the board of trustees and head of school during graduation weekend. Stratton Mountain School publications, online platforms, and on-campus signage will also acknowledge endowment donors.

Investing in the SMS endowment by joining The Hellman-Tarinelli Society demonstrates a commitment to ensuring our school’s future. It is an opportunity for our community - alumni, parents, past parents, Stratton homeowners, and friends of the school - to create a lasting legacy and to support SMS students for generations to come.

Please get in touch with Amie Smith in the SMS advancement office at asmith@gosms.org to learn more about The Hellman-Tarinelli Society and to join today.

Frame to Finish Construction

Residential & Commercial Projects

Custom home builds • Remodeling & Renovations

Additions • New Construction • Porches & Decks

Free Estimates!

Roofing & Construction

Residential & Commercial Projects

Certified Shingle Master • Slate Installation • Tamko

Standing Seam Metal Roofing • Custom Fabrication

Certified Rubber Roofing • Duro-Last • Certainteed

Free Estimates!

Thank you, Stratton Mountain School, for welcoming our family to the amazing SMS community!

Juan Eduardo Ibanez

Kay Holscher I. Patricio Crespo I. Tomas Holscher I.
Martin Crespo I. Diego Holscher I. Patrick Raby I.
Amelia Crespo I. Clarita Crespo I. Rosario Holscher I.
Juan Ibanez V.
Pedro Holscher I. Joaquin Crespo I.
Colomba Ibanez V.

Keep Moving. Get Stronger. Be Better.

Keep Moving. Get Stronger. Be Better.

Serving the communities of Southern Vermont.

Serving the communities of Southern Vermont.

Outstanding care with exceptional results.

Serving the communities of Southern Vermont.

John DeBitetto, PT, MSPT

Outstanding care with exceptional results.

Outstanding care with exceptional results.

Owner & Clinical Director

John DeBitetto, PT, MSPT

3800 Main Street, Manchester Village 802-768-8679

Owner & Clinical Director

3800 Main Street Manchester Village 802-768-8679

& Clinical Director

3800 Main Street, Manchester Village 802-768-8679

THE CUBELL FAMILY

Michelle and George Abdow '84

ACK Design

Amanda Birch Seed to Skin

American Flatbread

Amy’s on the Road

Jess Baron ‘93

Jeffrey Bennett '87

Rebecca Benyik

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Stratton Home

Black Ember Grill

Blue Flame Gas Company

Bracelayer Compression Gear

Bradley's Pro Shop

Brooks Brothers

Brown Enterprises

Steve Bruner

Megan Buchanan

Class of 2025 SMS Parents

Class of 2026 SMS Parents

Class of 2027 SMS Parents

Class of 2028 SMS Parents

Class of 2029 SMS Parents

Class of 2030 SMS Parents

Coco Goose

Coleman's Auto Repair

Christine and Matt Collins

Cosmetic Laser Therapy

D. Lasser Ceramics

Emily Daly

Das A’lois

Nevin and Chris Djoganopoulos

Dorset Field Club

Dover Bar and Grill

Elevated Admissions

Erik Peckel Catering

The Equinox Golf Resort & SPA

Falcon's Fields Livestock

Family Kitchen

Farmhouse Market

The Fire Tower

Firewood Plus

Four Seasons | Sotheby’s International

Realty

Lisa Fyfe

Gems By Christine

Thank you to our donors and advertisers. Your generous support makes the winter ball possible and fulfills the dreams of so many talented student athletes.

Megan and Tago Gilfond

Susan and Stephen Giulietti

Gringo Jack's

Ethan Harris

Hazel and Bee Organics

Hildene - The Lincoln Family Home

Hilton Boston Park Plaza

Hotel Sonnhof GmbH, Family Pfurtscheller

Frank and Megan Hwang

Hunter Excavating

Inn at Manchester

Janine Home & Style Boutique

J. Margiotta Conpany

JK Adams

John Hammond

Hildene - The Lincoln Family Home

Kangaroo Dogs

Marin Knight

Eric Knight/TPW

Kate Koch

Jimmy Krupka

Alex Lehmann/Muddy Hollow Band

Sandra Lehmann

Leyla's Brick Oven Eatery

Lincoln Maples - Ace Hardware

Kristin Luckenbill ‘97

Fernando and Alexa Raether Maddock

Jesse Mallis

Manchester House of Pizza

Manchester Discount Beverage

Market Mentors

Chris Marks

Robert Montuoro

Mountain Fresh Bowls

The Mountain Goat

Mountain Styles Salon

Mulligan’s Restaurant

Charlotte and Rand Neeves

Our Mothers Garden

Pastime Pinball

Pearl’s Place and Pantry

Ross Powers ‘97

Matt Prendergast

Roxanne Prescott

Ratu’s Liquor and Market

Reluctant Panther Inn

Katie and Victor Rivas

Tom, Sandy and Michael Rose

Royal Pools & Spas Inc

Jim Ryan

Sam's Wood Fired Pizza

Miles Saunders

Amie Smith

The Smolenack Family

Snow Republic Brewery

Soundview Millworks

The Sports Emporium Bar and Grill

The Sportsmen - Jay Cherosnick '97

Catherine Sterling

Marianne and Robert Stevenish II

Sticky Fingers Bakery

Stratton Corporation

Stratton Escape Room, LLC

Stratton Mountain School

SMS Alpine PG Parents

Sugarbush

Tim Taylor

The Inn at Manchester

The Red Lion Inn

Marjorie Topman

Teresa Tyler

Valley Craft Ales

Valley View Saloon

Vermont Bracelet - Kimet Hand

The Vermont Butcher

Vermont Country Store

Vermont Distillers, Inc.

Von Bargen’s Jewelry

Whirlygig Music LLC

Taylor White

Wild Horn

Willoughby's Depot Eatery

Winemonger & The Manufactory

Britt Wohler ‘07

Wohler Realty Group

Workhorse Cafe

WW Building Supply

*complete list available online

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