The Charlotte News | September 19, 2018

The

Charlotte’s award-winning community newspaper

Charlotte News Wednesday, september 19, 2018 | Volume lXI number 6

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CharlotteNewsVT.org

Charlotte News

The

Vol. 61, no.6

September 19, 2018

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

Ken Spencer tackles roadside trash with his Planet Pack

Town Link Trail underpass opens for business Laurie Thompson

Melissa O’Brien

About 70 people turned out to enjoy live music, great food, neighborhood camaraderie and the ribbon cutting ceremony at the new underpass under Route 7 on the Charlotte Town Link Trail. Charlotters of all ages arrived by foot and by bike to participate in the grand opening. Laurie Thompson, co-chair of the Trails Committee, Lane

NEWS EDITOR

When pulling out of the News offices recently I noticed two gentleman walking along Greenbush Road wearing unusuallooking packs on their backs and picking up trash. Always the curiouser, I flagged them down to find out what they were up to.

I learned a wonderful thing that day, that Charlotter Ken Spencer had designed and created a backpack for litter pick-up, and, of course, I wanted to know more. Here is the outcome of our recent Q & A.

Morrison, chair of the Selectboard, and Clark Hinsdale, who initiated the idea of the underpass with the State of Vermont many years ago, all spoke at the ceremony before the ribbon cutting.

Several local farms and businesses donated food for the event.

The new Charlotte Trails Map was also unveiled at this celebration and is now available at Town Hall.

See more photos on page 4

Melissa: How did this whole idea start?

Ken: This idea came to me walking on Cape Cod’s Nauset Beach on summer mornings. I used to head out a few miles to the inlet for a swim at sunrise and became addicted to the quiet, beauty, wild surf and untamed nature. The random balloons, plastic bottles and litter from the previous nights’ parties just frustrated me. I started picking up litter there and that carried over to life at home in Charlotte. Carrying a trash bag was just esthetically a nightmare: the noise, the look, the uneven weight, the brushing into my leg. I decided I wanted a pack.

What were the first steps in the process?

The next step was trying an Adirondack pack basket, which I picked for its structure, open top and beauty. But the shape was wrong, the hole on top too small and tilting down and back from your shoulders. The bow in the middle trapped litter and made it hard to remove what I had collected. So I decided to design my own pack.

Who is manufacturing the pack?

I hired Paul Henning in Burlington to help me design a pack to be strong, affordable and shaped correctly to make it easy to toss litter in. We worked together for a year or more, trying metal and wood and shapes that you can see on my site planetpeople.org.

What changes have you had to make to the pack after using it for a while?

We used canvas and leather, snaps and hinges. We settled on a molded plastic back piece so the body would be protected from anything sharp. We inserted simple hoops into that to create the shape and hung a waterproof satchel in the hoops to

Ken and his father-in-law, John Tierney.

Photo by Melissa O’Brien prevent anything wet from staining the bag or wearer. That satchel was designed to perfectly fit a standard trash bag, which stretches over the hoop frame on top.

In terms of manufacturing, Paul shared a connection in Shenzhen, China, and I started working with a fellow there named Chunchun. He’s taught me all about tooling costs to make the mold to produce a product, shipping costs and how imports work. I might visit his factory, but for now, he gave me great references in the U.S. I feel this product needs to be inexpensive because people have never bought a pack to pick up litter. Plus, I want everyone in the world to be able to afford a Planet Pack.

Do you see roadside trash as a growing problem?

For me, this is not about solving the litter problem by picking up. It’s about changing the way people think about litter and changing the throw-away culture. I want to share with people the good feeling you get when you take care of your neighborhood, when you get out and walk, when your neighbors notice what you’re doing. When I pick up, people honk, they wave.

I see Planet Pack in schools. I’d like to be able to give free packs to classrooms that collect 500 pounds of litter. I see high school outing clubs and environmental groups sharing Planet Packs and setting an example for their peers. I see millennials see

PACK page 3

A happy crew cuts the ceremonial ribbon to welcome foot and bike traffic to the Rt. 7 underpass.

Photo by Ramiro Garay.

Simple. PrideVT 2018 Rev. Kevin Goldenbogen On Saturday, Sept. 8, the annual Pride Vermont Parade and Festival was held in downtown Burlington. The skies were clear, the air was crisp, and the sun was lush. Around 11:15 a.m., groups who would be marching in the parade began congregating at the Hood Plant on South Winooski. Over the next hour and a half, the gathering area filled with more and more groups. Colleges, environmental activists, state politicians, the Vermont Library Association, religious groups and many others joined the LGBTQ+ community to create a “place for the entire community – LGBTQ+ and allies – of all ages, races, and backgrounds to come together.” What “began as an anniversary celebration of the Stonewall Riots…has evolved over time to encompass the many LGBTQ heroes, struggles, and victories since” (from http://pridevt.org/). It was a grand

celebration, bumping with electronica, textured with leather, splashed with rainbows and bursting with smiling people of all ages, backgrounds, political beliefs and sexual identities…all with different stories to tell, all with different reasons for being there.

As a person of Christian faith and as a pastor, I was grateful to join members of my congregation to walk with those who are like me and those who are different from me. Marching behind a banner and rainbow flag, I was there for four simple reasons: 1) to listen to the stories from members of the LGBTQ+ community, 2) to lament how our culture in general and the church in particular continue to marginalize, wound and oppress people for their sexual identities, 3) to show the LGBTQ+ community that many people of Christian faith support them for being exactly who they are, and 4) to have fun see

PRIDE page 4

2 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Editorial

Walking into fall

It was Tuesday afternoon, when the kids get out of school early — dismissal is at 2 p.m. instead of 3.

My daughter, Melissa O’Brien Coco, had made a plan NEWS EDITOR with some of her 8th grade friends to walk across the street after school to Philo Ridge Farm. I loved this idea, that the kids have a place they could walk to from their school. I loved their planning and I loved, even more, the execution, which I saw because I drove past the school at just the moment when they were being chaperoned from CCS to Philo Ridge by none other than their principal, Jen Roth.

Now some might groan and wonder where the autonomous childhood went, why 13-yearolds need someone to walk them across the street, and believe me, I understand this. When I was a kid we ran amok for hours and hours in the neighborhood where we lived and much farther afield. I rode my bicycle everywhere, and Saratoga Springs — the town in which I grew up — was a great location for that kind of freedom. This has most definitely been the thing I wish were different about my kids’ growing-up years here in Vermont: that we parents have to

The

Charlotte News

drive them everywhere, that there seems to be constant vigilance on the part of adults these days.

Still, when I saw the pack of girls and the principal walking with them, something in me sighed with a kind of

“

This can only be the beginning of many years of CCS students walking across the street after school to enjoy some refreshments and down time at Philo Ridge.

”

contentment. I liked that the adults at my daughter’s school care enough to do something like that. I liked seeing all of them walking together, away from school.

I met the girls at the farm. We got our snacks, sandwiches, drinks and then sat down out back at one of the picnic tables. “I think we should make this a Tuesday afternoon thing,” one of them

said. They were pleased with the way their afternoon had played out. They lamented the principal’s decision to walk them across the street, there was talk of a meeting later, back at CCS, to discuss this situation. A crosswalk was brought up as a possibility. Certainly that makes sense.

This can only be the beginning of many years of CCS students walking across the street after school to enjoy some refreshments and down time at Philo Ridge. How nice. How lovely that this is here in our community now a place kids can get to propelled by their own two feet.

Speaking of foot traffic … how wonderful that the underpass under Route 7, linking the two sides of our town is now open and ready for business. You will enjoy Laurie Thompson’s piece and Ramiro Garay’s photographs from that wonderful morning here in town.

The heel-to-toe theme, which was not planned (I swear!), continues with our story of Ken Spencer and his marvelous contraption, the Planet Pack, and Rev. Kevin Goldenbogen’s wonderful piece about walking in the recent Pride Day Parade in Burlington.

Welcome to autumn! We hope you will take the time to fill out our survey, whether online or here, on paper, and send us your thoughts as we work to envision the future of this paper. Now get out there and walk around while the getting’s still good!

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The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 3

PACK

continued from page 1

hankering for something that makes a difference and baby boomers needing to walk more and alleviate their stresses. I also see an untapped resource in senior centers and retirement communities with an older generation of people needing a sense of purpose. Everyone should be walking, so why not pick up litter?

Right now, I’m tailoring the bag to make it more sleek and less pouchy. We’re moving the seam to improve the space on the back so I can add a high visibility reflective logo. I plan to partner and cobrand in some way with environmental groups and nonprofits that share my mission of healthier people and a healthier planet.

What have been the greatest obstacles to getting this thing out in the world?

The biggest obstacle is that this has never been invented until now, so it’s novel. Folks have never bought something

designed to pick up litter, and most folks don’t think or know yet that they might like picking up litter. I’m out there a few times a week showing them it’s fun. I’ve spent a lot of time and resources making the prototype, and there’s so much I want to do, but I work full time as a cardiac sonographer and R.N. at Porter Hospital.

I’d love to be able focus on Planet Pack.

What’s your vision for the future of the pack?

I think the pack can be used by anyone of any generation and is good for health and good for community. When I walk with it, I feel terrific—I literally leave my neighborhood better and safer. People constantly give me feedback, and it’s super reinforcing.

I’m pretty motivated to make this the most original holiday gift that ever was. It will cost less than $50 and the plan is that it changes the world, one neighborhood at a time.

The Charlotte News wants to hear from you Dear Readers, As we move forward into these brave new days of newspaper creation, as we seek ways to remain viable and sustainable, we need your input. What is The Charlotte News to you? What can The News be? Please take a few moments to fill out this survey, either here, in print, or online at www.charlottenewsvt. org/2018/09/19/11168/. Mail your survey to: The Charlotte News, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445.

The Charlotte News belongs to every member of this community; please help us create the publication you want to read.

1. Do you read the print version of The Charlotte News?

Yes No 2. Do you read the online version of the paper?

Yes No 3. What columns do you regularly enjoy reading? Circle all that apply.

Top Stories Editorial Legislative Report by Mike Yantachka Food related (Coco Eyre, Joanna Smith, Stacy Fraser, Francine Stephens) Library News Book Review by Katherine Arthaud Young Charlotters Health Matters Sports Senior Center Accidental Pastor by Melissa O’Brien

Weary Pilgrim by Mason Daring Gardening by Joan Weed and Dave Quickel Out-Doors by Elizabeth Bassett Out-Takes by Edd Merritt Principal’s Corner Property Transactions Sacred Hunter by Bradley Carleton Sunny Side Up by Carrie Fenn Taking Care by Alice Outwater Selectboard Leavitty by Josie Leavitt Other (please specify)

4. How could we improve the paper? Are we, for example, missing important and interesting stories about people and happenings around town? If so, give some examples.

5. In the last couple of years we have been running longer stories in the paper, up to 1500 words, and, more recently, up to 2500 words. On a 1 to 5 scale, with 5 being the “greatly enjoy” and 1 being “waste of space,” in general how much do you enjoy reading lengthier stories?

6. Please elaborate on your rating from the previous question.

7. We print a variety of stories in each issue, from news summaries to personal opinion pieces. On a 1 to 5 scale, with 5 being “appropriately balanced” and 1 being “unbalanced,” how well do you think we have struck the balance?

The Planet Pack is designed with a molded plastic back piece so the body would be protected from anything sharp and the satchel was designed to perfectly fit a standard trash bag, which stretches over the hoop frame on top.

Photo by Melissa O’Brien

8. Please elaborate on your rating from the previous question.

9. As a nonprofit paper we depend on advertisers and donations from the community to pay the expenses of producing and distributing The News every two weeks. Do you have any fundraising suggestions or ideas for helping us sustain the paper financially?

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4 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

PRIDE

continued from page 1

with friends, new and old. Through it all, I was able to listen, to lament and to have fun. I pray also that my presence, and the presence of members of my church, was able to send a message of support to at least some who needed to hear it that day.

It was a simple thing, really, a simple thing to gather for a little parade in Burlington on a beautiful late-summer Saturday morning. Some of the best things in life are simple, right? Some of the most powerful things are simple, too.

And how simply good and powerful it was to celebrate Pride 2018. May that simple parade be leaven for us in the Burlington area for another year. May the stories we shared bring understanding. May the rainbows we waved become healing for those who have been wounded. May the steps we took on Church Street turn into steps we take together the rest of the year, too. And may something so simple be light and growth and love for us all.

Thank you, Pride Vermont!

Rev. Kevin Goldenbogen is the senior pastor at the Charlotte Congregational Church (charlotteucc.org) and can be reached at 425-3176 (x11) or at rev.kemg@ gmail.com.

Members of Charlotte Congregational Church, UCC at Burlington Pride Parade.

Photo contributed

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 5

Around Town Congratulations

to 13-year-old Ella Beerworth whose poem titled “Rain” appeared in the September 14 Young Writers Project in the Burlington Free Press. Ella says that rain is nature’s way of telling us to cool down. “While some think it’s a pain, others admire watching it splash the ground.”

And, we shouldn’t forget that it does more than just fall, “it waters our grains as well.”

Sympathy P. Brian Machanic to P. Brian Machanic, a photographer, author and lecturer from Charlotte, who has been touring the state giving a presentation titled “The Art in Birding.” His most recent appearances have included the Manchester Public Library, Dead Creek Water Management Association in Addison and Eastview Community in Middlebury. He has been well received by his audiences.

On September 30 he will continue his tour at the Kehoe Education Center in Castleton.

The public is invited to attend his talks.

is extended to family and friends of Don Lockhart of Charlotte who passed away at the McClure Miller VNA Respite House in Colchester September 14 at the age of 92. A lifelong educator, Don Lockhart he began teaching on Long Island where he eventually became the school’s principal. His interest in visual media

was documented in a 1970 film, World of a Different Drum, which earned him a Golden Eagle Award and appeared in foreign film festivals. He and Bettty Ann also produced a four DVD set for Charlotte’s 250th birthday titled The Charlotte 250: That’s How The Story Goes. After having come to Vermont for nine years on vacation, he and his family moved to Charlotte in 1974. Here he served as principal of Orchard Elementary School in South Burlington. He and his wife, Betty Ann, also formed a videofilm company named Perceptions. They depicted primarily agriculture, the natural sciences and education. Having much of their film and written work focusing on maple syrup history and production, he and Betty Ann were inducted into the American Maple Museum Hall of Fame in Croghan, New York. Don is survived by his wife, Betty Ann, son, Donald (Skip) Lockhart, daughter, Elisabeth (Beth) Lockhart, and two granddaughters. Donations in his memory may be made to Trinity Church’s Memorial and Meditation Garden, 5171 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482.

National Bites

A memorial service for former Charlotter and renowned journalist Barrie Dunsmore was held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 8. Senator Patrick Leahy, fellow journalists Marvin Kalb, Ted Koppel and Hodding Carter, as well as Barrie’s brother, Loren, and daughter, Campbell, spoke of his talents as a journalist and a “loving father.” The service can be viewed on YouTube at https://bit.ly/2xcqTHQ. A year after his tragic skiing accident in the Chilean Andes, the life of former Charlotter, Caleb Ladue, was memorialized by the American Mountain Guide Association. Prior to his death Caleb had been working through the association’s range of activities while progressing toward certification as an American Mountain Guide/IFMGA. In its recognition of his accomplishments, the association said that his loss has left “an immense void in our tight-knit community of climbers, skiers and guides.”

Public Safety Fun Fair at Fire and Rescue On Saturday, Sept. 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Charlotte Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services welcomes the public for a day of fun and education for all ages.

Residents of Charlotte and neighboring towns are invited to visit with public safety providers from a variety of organizations, watch live demonstrations that will include CPR, vehicle extrication, fire demonstrations, and much more.

Lunch (hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, baked goods and drinks) will be sold from 11 to 1. Proceeds from the lunch and from a 50/50 raffle will go toward department community outreach and training support programs.

You won’t want to miss our kick-off event starting at 11. Rain or shine!!!

While there is no admission fee, donations of canned goods and other nonperishable food items will be gratefully accepted.

Contact Deputy Chief Rob Mullin at 425-3111 for more information.

Last year, the crowd at fire safety day watched as Brian LaBarge of the CVFRS demonstrated the jaws of life on a mock car accident.

Photos contributed

Integrating compassion, expertise and service

Jordan Paquette and Carol Blanshine of CVFRS, help build a structure that will be burned during the live burn demo at this year’s public safety day. This burn demo will demonstrate the different effects a home fire can have when you sleep with your bedroom door closed versus sleeping with your bedroom door open.

• Advanced surgical and Medical Care • Exotics and Companion Animals • Evening Hours Available

205 Commerce Street Hinesburg | 482-2955

6 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Town

The Town Trail connects major parts of our town Clark Hinsdale The history of Charlotte is fraught with competition between the West Village and Baptist Corners (East Charlotte) over such matters as the location of the Town Hall, the Central School, road maintenance facilities and other civic structures. Today, however, most of such competition has been replaced by cooperation, and the underpass certainly is one such success.

While today is primarily a celebration,

I would ask that you join me in a moment of silence in memory of two young lives tragically lost but who are remembered in naming the easterly portion of this trail system. Melissa and Trevor Mack were beloved children and grandchildren of the combination of two stalwart Charlotte families—the Prestons and the Macks.

On a lighter note, here is a poem for today, and I assure you, I am no Garrison Keillor.

How the underpass came to pass Our trails started out without much precision, And while on the Selectboard we passed a “Trails Vision.”

Showing key points and places we wanted to connect By routes both straight and indirect.

(Showing anything more than that Would lead to many a landowner spat.)

My land acquisition started in 1995.

At the Charlotte Berry Farm I did arrive.

And as any farmer wants at their core, All I wanted was to purchase the land next door.

So naturally I purchased 700 acres more.

And so in the years that did ensue, I bought up most of the land on the east side too.

At first with the Charlotte and Vermont Land Trusts, We conserved the Berry Farm – it was a MUST! Then together with the Freeman Foundation The Little League fields reached realization.

But if anyone thought that we were now through With our great land trust friends we did Berry Farm II. Conserving from State Park to Old Higbee Road That’s when the seeds of an underpass were sowed.

With the Route 7 widening coming at last A farm on both sides could request an underpass.

So the tunnel was built for the farming of land Which we knew at the time was a slight “slight of hand.”

And today there are many people to thank Volunteer trails folks, selectmen of rank.

And like our friends on the Mexican border We find crossing below is strictly in order.

- Clark Hinsdale

Photos by Ramiro Garay

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 7

Food Shelf News Susan Ohanian Special thanks for financial support go to the Charlotte Organic Food Coop, Beth and Edd Merritt, Deirdre Holmes and Jacob Edgar. An anonymous donor sent $100 for food purchases, and we thank him or her.

Thank you for wonderful vegetables and herbs fresh from local gardens: Diane Cote, Christie Garrett, Heather Harrington, Nancy Pricer, John Quincy family, Michelle and Tom Tiller, the Williams family, Rosemary Zezulinski. From cucumbers to watermelon (and many goodies in between) the donated bounty was rich and greatly appreciated.

Fresh vegetables went to all families, and at closing time Bill Doris delivered all leftover veggies to the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf in Burlington.

Nancy Barnes dropped off burgers, sausage and lots of buns and rolls.

Thank you to Pete Purdum for making the wonderful wooden storage shelf.

Charlotte Grange rummage sale We have 24 children signed up for winter outerwear and winter boots and would like to remind community members that the Charlotte Grange will be working with the Food Shelf to supply kids with gently used clothes and boots.

The Charlotte Grange will be accepting donations for its rummage sale Saturday, Sept. 22, through Thursday, Sept. 27. Watch Front Porch Forum for details about hours.

Please note: The Grange is especially looking for gently used children’s winter wear, which will be distributed free of charge to local children who can really use a nice warm coat, snow pants and boots.

All sizes, from toddler to adult, are needed.

Remember, some of our children are very small and others quite tall (with feet to match).

Kudos to a community that comes together to watch over our children.

Important Upcoming Food Shelf Distribution Dates Wednesdays, Sept. 19 and Oct. 10 and 24, 5 to 7 p.m.

Thursdays, Sept. 20 and Oct. 11 and 25, 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Financial assistance The Food Shelf has some funds available for emergency assistance with fuel and electric bills. Contact Cindi at 435-3234.

Donations The Food Shelf is a volunteer organization, and all donations go directly for food and assistance to our neighbors.

Checks may be mailed to Charlotte Food Shelf & Assistance, P.O. Box 83, Charlotte, VT 05445. Thank you!

Donated food drop-off locations All nonperishable food donations may be dropped off at the Charlotte Library, the Charlotte Congregational Church vestry, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church (main entrance) or at the Food Shelf during the distribution mornings. We request that all fresh foods be dropped off at the Food Shelf before the Wednesday distribution hours or before 7:30 a.m. on the Thursday distribution mornings.

The Charlotte Food Shelf is located on the lower level of the Charlotte Congregational Church vestry. Distribution days and times are also posted on the bulletin board in the Charlotte Congregational Church Hall, at the Charlotte Library and the Charlotte Senior Center. You may also call the Food Shelf number (425-3252) for a recording of the distribution times.

Thank you, volunteer bakers! Snickerdoodles, payday bars and millionaire bars. Yum! Photo contributed

Team Wake Robin walks for a cause

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8 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Town

Voters meet with statewide Democratic candidates at the Town Beach

Representative Mike Yantachka and the Charlotte Democratic Committee hosted a gathering at the Charlotte Town Beach on Sunday, September 16, to hear Democratic candidates for statewide office in November make their pitches for reelection. About 40 people turned out to eat hot dogs and potato chips while Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman, State Auditor of Accounts Doug Hoffer, Attorney General TJ Donovan, Sheriff Kevin McLaughlin,

Senators Ginny Lyons, Chris Pearson, Phil Baruth, Shelburne Representative Kate Webb and host Mike Yantachka asked for their votes. In addition, Connie Cain Ramsey and Suzanne Brown, who are running for the positions of Chittenden County assistant judge, also spoke at the event. State Treasurer Beth Pearce and Probate Judge Greg Glennon also made an apperance.

Above: Attorney General T.J. Donovan talks with Lydia Clemmons.

Left: Lt. Governor David Zukerman making his pitch for reelection to, among others, Jackson and Lydia Clemmons.

Below: Rep Mike Yantachka hosted the gathering.

Photos by Vince Crockenberg

State Auditor of Accounts Doug Hoffer explains the auditor’s role in state government and why he’d like to be reelected to that position.

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 9

Charlotte Library News Margaret Woodruff

Pre-schoolers ages 3 to 5 are invited to fun-time story time at 10:30 a.m.

We read and share old favorites and new stories as we explore the world around us through books. Crafts and snacks are a key part of this hour-long program.

If you’re in kindergarten or 1st grade, hop off the bus at the library for afterschool story time at 2:15 p.m. Stories, snacks, crafts and games focus on nourishing a love for books as well as the ideas and themes they reveal.

Space is limited, and registration required for all story time programs.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR

We hope to see you at story time!

Continued and rigorous research indicates that reading to children is a key step in their success in school and beyond. As seasoned librarian Allison Randall outlines in “Learning Starts at Home and the Public Library is the Next Stop,” on medium.com, 0ne of the best (and free!) things to do with all children is to take them to library story time....The most important elements of a child learning to read are printed material and adults. It’s a simple equation that equals a confident and capable child.

“Our findings suggest that only having one side of the equation — access to books or adult support — is insufficient,” says Susan B. Neuman, professor of childhood and literacy education at NYU’s Steinhardt School of Culture…. “Rather, both are necessary. Without access to books, one cannot read to children; without adult support, children cannot be read to.”

We’d love to have you and your children join us for baby time or have your preschoolers drop in to our 3–5 p.m. story time or your kindergartner or first-grader hop off the bus for reading explorations.

And be on the lookout for upcoming workshops on reading and enjoying books with your children.

Adults & Families Upcoming at the library Just for kids

Thursday, Sept. 13–Thursday, Oct. 4, 3:15 p.m. LEGO Machines. Gears, pulleys, levers, motors and more! Build amazing machines and learn how to make them work even better! For 4th grade and up. Space is limited, registration required.

Tuesday is story-time day this fall! Story time begins on Tuesday, Sept. 18, for all ages.

If you’re a parent or caregiver for a baby or toddler, join us for baby time at 9 a.m.

Colleen Boyce shares stories, songs and wordplay in a program designed to share the love of reading with our youngest visitors.

Fall Garden Journal

By Gail Grow

Thursday, Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m. Book discussion: Before the Court of Heaven.

Author Jack Mayer joins us for a discussion of his latest book, a work of historical fiction based on a true story about Weimar Germany and the rise of the Third Reich. Before the Court of Heaven explores how ordinary Germans became complicit in extraordinary crimes. Copies are available at the circulation desk to check out.

Friday, Sept. 21, 6 p.m. Burlington songwriters session. Musicians and songwriters Mike Abler, Tyler Smith and Karen Knaebel bring their talents to the Charlotte Library in the third session from the Burlington Songwriters Group. Come enjoy some original tunes with banjo, guitar and vocals.

Monday, Sept. 24, 1 p.m. Internet privacy toolkit, with Jessamyn West.

Renowned library-tech expert Jessamyn West presents practical tips for protecting your privacy online. This informal discussion will cover topics such as how to write a good password, options for browsing the internet more safely and how to deal with “smart devices.” Bring your questions!​ Tuesday, Sept. 25: Voter registration day. Register and be ready to vote in the November midterm elections. You can

register at Town Hall or online at olvr.sec. state.vt.us/.

Mondays, Oct. 1-Oct. 15, 1 p.m. West Like Lightning book discussion. Join Library Director Margaret Woodruff as we read and discuss Jim DeFelice’s rollicking and riveting history of the Pony Express.

“DeFelice, who traveled the Pony’s route in his research, plumbs the legends, myths, and surprising truth of the service, exploring its lasting relevance today as a symbol of American enterprise, audacity, and daring.” Copies available at the Charlotte Library.

Thursday, Oct. 4, 7 p.m. Toby Ball: Podcast review. Toby Ball, from the hit podcast “Crime Writers On...,” visits the library to discuss his experience in podcasting, how the industry has changed over the past few years, the popularity of true crime stories in podcasting and the long-awaited third season of the legendary podcast “Serial.”

Library Information

Charlotte Library Board of Trustees: Katharine Cohen, Nan Mason, Danielle Conlon Menk, Jonathan Silverman and Robert Smith.

Charlotte Library information Margaret Woodruff, director Cheryl Sloan, youth services librarian Susanna Kahn, tech services librarian Hours Mondays & Wednesdays: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Reach us on the web at charlottepubliclibrary.org.

Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/charlottelibraryvt.

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @CharlotteVTLib.

10 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Town

Last Days of summer on Thompson’s Point Sandi Detwiler

Early September dawn pinkens the sky at a respectable 6 a.m. I hope to be awake at dawn. I want to watch the day brighten and hear the crows call. I want to be present for every second of the late summer day because I know that too soon the windows will close. Sounds will be dulled and the dawn will emerge in tones of gray.

The air offers a hint of chill, which refreshes after the humid heat of the July and August days.

The south wind blows gentle waves against Breezer on her mooring. The gusts and gales of August have calmed. A lone kayaker dips his paddle back and forth while I sip my coffee.

Three ducks paddle near our dock. Where are the others? In June they paraded past as a group of 10.

Mama brought up the rear ensuring all her little ones were safe. Have the little ones set off for their own nests, or has danger found them?

Our neighborhood family of barred owls is quiet. Earlier in the summer, Mama and Papa called “Who’ll cook for you? Who’ll cook for you?” while nurturing their owlets. The owlets, as brazen teenagers,

“

flitted near our camp all July. One perched on our railing, daring us to walk down to the rocks. Another sat in a tree for 20 minutes while we took turns staring at it through our binoculars. The big birds felt like our pets. Tragedy or nature intruded in early August. The body of a young owl floated to our neighbors’ rocks. We grieved together while staring at the sky looking for the predator.

A proud bald eagle teases us with his soaring overhead as we sit on the dock early evenings.

Our call echoes to neighbors savoring their own last minutes of dock time. “Bald eagle.” Binoculars grabbed, necks craned up. Bald eagle sightings always excite.

Zebra-musselcovered rocks reveal themselves as the lake level drops lower and lower with this summer’s drought.

Big fish leap, and their splash sends silent ripples to the shore. I watch and wonder about the fish when the ice appears. But before the ice forms, I step down our slimy dock ladder and slide into cool, dark Lake Champlain.

Underwater plants tickle my leg. Oohh, what is that? I think.

This morning is quiet. Whoops and hollers from children playing on their water

Whoops and hollers from children playing on their water toys have faded. They whoop and holler in schoolyards now.

”

Email your news and photos to

news@thecharlottenews.org

Photo by Sandi Detwiler

toys have faded. They whoop and holler in schoolyards now. Mosquito-like jet skis and motorboats rest quiet on their trailers.

A distant sail flaps, insects hum. The peace brings my morning meditation.

Inside the camp, I sweep up the crumbs of playd ough and dried Cheerios and smile remembering Robby, Olivia and Sebastian running in and out. Gathering the blocks and little train cars, I miss the questions of Robby, “Why is grandpa so old, Besta?” I miss Olivia’s “Look, Besta. I can write my name.” When I cradle the pile of little books to bring home, I remember Sebastian’s big-eyed, silent focus when I read Cars and Trucks. And baby Paige.... she was content to giggle and bang the wooden spoons on the old pot that I now put away until next summer.

In our barebones kitchen, I deal with the harvest of basil and tomatoes. Slicing

tomatoes in chunks, sprinkling with salt, pepper, basil and olive oil, I slide trays in the 400-degree oven for roasting.

When thawed after freezing, their taste will bring a memory of summer sun.

The basil is squashed into the cracked, cranky food processor. Like our camp, the food processor has quirks that make it a challenge to use. Adding garlic, parmesan, oil and nuts to the green leaves and whirling for just seconds creates another taste of September that will warm us in January.

Dusk with its soft coral sky arrives by 7:30 now. The lake shimmers pink in soft reflection. Once the glow fades, peepers sing tribute to the final moments of summer even as the temperature hovers in the 80s.

What a blessing to watch, listen, feel and simply be at camp.

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The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 11

Town

Kelly Brush Ride draws large crowd

My, oh my, apple pie!

Photo by Kelly Brush Foundation.

Cyclists rolling in the 13th Annual Kelly Brush Ride powered by VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018. The annual ride, which starts and finishes in Middlebury and winds through the Champlain Valley, drew more than 900 cyclists and 25 adaptive athletes, the highest participation in the history of the ride. The event raised approximately $590,000 for adaptive sports and ski racing safety.

Pictured left to right: Andy Hodgdon, Martha Perkins, Martha Barton-Rivera, Joe Rivera and Pam Darling.

Photo contributed

The merry bakers at the Charlotte Congregational Church will be selling delicious apple pies on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. and Fridays at 10 a.m. Visit charlotteucc.org/calendar for more information. All proceeds go to the mission work of the Charlotte Congregational Church.

Charlotte Selectboard meeting Gail Callahan

The Thompson Point’s Wastewater ordinance is going to go under the microscope again at the end of the month after board members decided during the Sept. 10 meeting that additional work was needed on the enforcement and penalties section.

The connection fee is composed of three costs: • The cost of extending the wastewater system to the end of Lane’s Lane to serve the seven camps—this is $2,400 per camp • The cost to connect each camp—one camp has been connected, and the cost was $6,880 • The pro-rated, depreciated cost of the original construction of the system—this is $10,500. The draft ordinance indicates this can be paid over 20 years.

The draft ordinance indicates that all camps must connect by December 31, 2028. Lot 204 is a non seasonal camp and is currently

exempt based on an agreement from 1979; if it’s converted to seasonal use, the exemption will end.

The purpose of an ordinance is to provide regulation and enforcement, said Select board Chairman Lane Morrison. He pointed out that the town won’t necessarily fine residents not following the ordinance, but can work with individuals.

A violation under the proposal means that an individual does something not permitted by the ordinance, for example placing an item, such as a disposable diaper, into the system.

Seven Lane’s Lane camps aren’t hooked up to the town’s wastewater system.

The Thompson’s Point Wastewater Advisory Committee ‘s responsibilities include recommending a fee schedule to ensure viability of a reserve fund and to suggest proposed amendments to the Indirect Discharge permit.

Town Administrator Dean Bloch told the board at the meeting that the town attorney added provisions for Article XI, a section

outlining proposed enforcement and penalties.

According to the ordinance, violations are a civil matter and enforcement may be overseen by the Vermont Judicial Bureau, which has statewide jurisdiction over civil issues.

The proposed ordinance spelled out spelled out fines associated with violations. A civil penalty of up to $800 per day could be charged for each day that the violation continues.

The board will discuss the proposal at its meeting on Monday, September 24.

Emerald Ash Borer Preparedness Plan Charlotte Tree Warden Mark Dillenbeck updated the board about how to best tackle the emerald ash borer, an invasive Asian species.

Dillenbeck and a planning committee are drawing up a proposal on dealing with the pest. Carrie Spear is the Select board liaison.

The committee is working on a plan that includes completing the ash tree inventory, drawing up a FY 2019-20 $20,000 budget and prepare a $20,000 spending plan that

covers late fall through next spring for cutting and treating ash trees. The panel is studying which trees should be removed in the future and those that should be preserved. Trees in Charlotte’s right-of-way are the most important for the commission.

The committee is also working on a 2019 March Town Meeting report about the preparedness plan.

In other news, the Charlotte Senior Center is working on a Request for Proposal for a kitchen countertop replacement project at the building.

Town staff is helping the Center put together a draft RFP for a package that includes countertop replacement and plumbing and fixture costs. Bloch said the town’s Improvement and Repair Fund will pay for the project.

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12 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Charlotte Big Tree Upda

The Tree Tribe asks for r

Margaret Woodruff and her champion butternut.

Photo by Ma

Specie Native to Charlotte

Champion Black Locust at Horsfords.

Photo by Vince Crockenberg

Species Ash, White Ash, Green Ash, Black Aspen, Trembling Aspen, Big Toothed Basswood Beech Birch, Black Birch, River Birch, White Box Elder Black Gum Butternut Cedar, White Cedar, Red

Cherry, Black

Circumference 172 Lake Road Ext. 90 Lake Road 49 Carpenter Road (Donegan) 49 Upper Old Town Trail 63 Upper Old Town Trail 164 Thorp Cove Road 130 Mt. Philo Road (McGinnis) 56 Guinea Road (Butnor) 6 Town Green 63 Lake Road (Donovan/O’Donnell) 95 Charlotte Family Health Center, Ferry Road 8 Town Green 134 Garen Road (Woodruff) 150 Barber Hill Cemetery 58 Town land, Thompson’s Point Road 89 Lewis Creek Road (Cheney)

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 13

ate

readers’ help in updating Charlotte’s champion trees roster

One of Larry Hamilton’s enduring contributions to the Charlotte community was his Big Tree Roster, a list of the champion trees of each species in Charlotte, whether on private or public property. Once again this year, the Charlotte Tree Tribe, under the leadership of Tree Warden Mark Dillenbeck, invites all Charlotters to participate in the regular updating of that list.

The News maintains a complete list of Charlotte’s champion trees, along with photographs of many of them, on its website: charlottenewsvt.org; click on the Tree Warden tab, then on Champion Trees. The roster can also be found on the town website at https://bit.ly/2QzPr6u.

For purposes of the roster, champion status is determined by the tree’s girth, in inches, measured four and a half feet from the ground. If you believe you have identified a candidate for champion status—a tree that is larger than the current champion of that species or that is new to the list—measure the tree at that height. Then send the measurement, along with a photo if possible, to Tree Steward Vince Crockenberg at vince.crockenberg@gmail. com or to Deputy Tree Warden Sue Smith at ssmith@ gmavt.net with the words “Champion Tree?” in the subject line. A member of the Tree Tribe will then contact you and set up a time to officially confirm the tree’s species and its girth.

Mike LaClair, daughter and his champion honey locust. Photo by Mark Dillenbeck

ark Dillenbeck

Charlotte Big Tree Roster

es and circumference in inches measured 4.5 feet above ground Cottonwood Elm, American (White) Elm, Slippery (Red) Hackberry Hemlock Hickory, Shagbark Hickory, Bitternut Hop Hornbeam Locust, Honey Maple, Black Maple, Sugar Maple, Red Maple, Silver Oak, Red Oak, White Oak, Bur Oak, Swamp White Oak, Scarlet

174 128 106 9 110 151 141 75 142 87 211 131 164 151 179

183 160 137

Philo Ridge Farm Carpenter Road (Donegan) Krasnows Town Green Near Williams Woods (Muggenthaler) Whalley, off Whalley Road Upper Old Town Trail Lewis Creek Road (Cheney) 839 One Mile Road (Preston) Lake Road Fox Run Road (Purdum) McCabe Brook, Lime Kiln Road 826 Carpenter Road (Lander) Lewis Creek Road (Cheney) North Pasture Lane (Keenan) Garen Road (Donaldson) Ten Stones, near Montgomery residence Spear Street (Moraska)

Oak, Pin 42 CCS Pine, White 138 Roscoe Road (Mead and Harvey) Pine, Red 58 Thompson’s Point Rd. (Winterthur) Poplar, White (European) 93 Baldwin Road Sycamore 43 Lake Road (Walker/Boynton) Serviceberry 20 UVM Natural Area, Pease Mountain Tamarack 64 West of Spear St. (Hinsdale)

Non-native but widely planted or escaped Horse Chestnut Locust, Black Maple, Norway Walnut, Black Willow, Weeping

134 158 95 137 254

Horsford’s Horsford’s Thompson’s Point Rd. (Crockenberg) Converse Bay Road Mt. Philo Road, near Shelburne line

14 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Into The Woods

Crop tree release

J. Ethan Tapper CHITTENDEN COUNTY FORESTER

My woodlot in Bolton was logged in the 1980s. Through a practice known as “diameter-limit cutting,” all trees above a certain diameter (probably 11 inches or 14 inches) were cut. My land is a good site for growing red and white oak, white and red pine, red spruce and hemlock, but this harvest removed most trees of these species, creating a forest of mostly unhealthy beech and red maple. Using silviculture—the strategic harvesting of trees—I hope to restore my forest’s health by regenerating unhealthy areas and encouraging healthy trees of all species, all while maintaining a diverse forest with great wildlife habitat. While I have a lot of will power, a big tractor and a chainsaw, my work in my woodlot is limited by time, forcing me to consider how to maximize the impact of my efforts.

Most landowners who are interested in harvesting firewood or improving their forest pick an area and try to harvest every last unhealthy tree or fill their woodshed with dead-standing trees and blowdowns, ignoring living trees all together. The problem with this (other than harvesting dead wood, which should be left) is that they miss the opportunity to enact a much broader positive change; in addition to harvesting firewood, they could be encouraging the growth of healthy trees that provide a variety of important values.

A landowner from Milton once told me that, when he bought his 50-acre woodlot, an old-timer told him to start harvesting firewood “in the back” (i.e. the part of the property farthest from the road) so that when he was old he’d have worked his way up to his house, and he’d have firewood close by. This landowner paused and said: “I started in the back. And I’ve been in the back ever since.” You will never be able to cut every unhealthy tree

“

Stock image

Instead of focusing on every unhealthy tree, I look for the trees that I want to grow—crop trees—and harvest only trees whose crowns are touching their crowns.

in your woods, and if you try you’ll never make a meaningful impact on your whole forest. However, with a simple shift in your mindset, the positive effect of your work can be much more significant.

The key is a silvicultural technique called “crop tree release.” Instead of focusing on every unhealthy tree, I look for the trees that I want to grow—crop trees—and harvest only trees whose crowns are touching their crowns. If neighboring trees are much smaller or their crowns are not touching, leave them alone. While it may seem counter-intuitive

”

to leave obviously unhealthy trees standing, focus on what we are keeping, not what might seem to “need” to be cut.

Our sole goal is to release these crop trees from competition—and to release as many as possible. “Defective” trees can stay in the woods, providing a range of benefits from wildlife habitat to carbon sequestration.

A crop tree can be selected for timber, mast (seeds or fruits that wildlife eat) production, maple sap, wildlife habitat or other benefits. Crop trees should generally be “dominant” or “co-dominant,” meaning

that their tops are in the upper canopy of the forest, have a symmetrical, live crown, and lack wounds, rot and other defects. Tree identification is important as you consider what benefits you want to encourage. A Beginner’s Guide to Recognizing Trees of the Northeast, by Mark Mikolas, is a good tree identification book to start with.

An option for landowners who don’t have the equipment to pull trees out of the woods, don’t need any more firewood in the woodshed or are working with trees that are small or poor-quality firewood is to leave some trees you cut in the woods.

Dead wood and brush on the ground may look messy but are important for building and stabilizing soils and storing carbon, among other benefits. “Girdling” a tree— cutting two parallel rings a half-inch deep into the bark around the circumference of the tree—kills it but retains it as a snag, another valuable wildlife feature. This means you’re spending less time pulling marginal firewood out of the woods, and you can release more crop trees.

Landowners are often great intuitive forest managers, with a strong relationship with their woods. The thing that we all lack is time. Hopefully focusing on identifying and releasing crop trees will help make the most of the opportunities we have to encourage the growth of healthy trees and forests.

For those interested in learning more about crop tree management, check out nrs.fs.fed.us/pubs/jrnl/2007/ nrs_2007miller_001.pdf.

Ethan Tapper is the Chittenden County forester. He can be reached at ethan. tapper@vermont.gov, (802)-585-9099, or at his office at 111 West Street, Essex Junction.

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The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 15

GMBC day touring rides Sunday, Sept. 23: East of Eden. Ride 50 or 60 (M/S) miles through the rolling hills around Eden with your choice of a long, gradual climb up Route 105 or a shorter, steeper route on Route 242 up to Jay Peak. Last year we reversed the direction of this ride, and we will be repeating that direction this year. Meet at 9:45 at Eden Elementary School on Route 100, about half-mile south of Route 118. Leader: Matt Kuivinen - 881-9045, mattkui@ earthlink.net. Co-leader: Brian Howard – 505-1148, bjhowd@gmail.com.

Sunday, Sept. 30: Meandres et Beaux Villages. A 60-mile (M/S) tour of pretty villages across the Canadian border. Bring your passport or the required customs documents. We’ll stop in Mystic for brunch and pass many farms along the way. There is some dirt—about four miles total—and a couple of hills. Meet at 9:15 at Highgate Elementary School: I-89 north to exit 21 in Swanton, take 78 east to Highgate Center, then left on 207 North, Elementary School is on the left. Leader: John Bertelsen - 864-0101, jo.bertel@ gmail.com. Co-leader: Karla Ferrelli 864-0101 / karla.ferrelli@gmail.com.

• All riders must wear helmets and obey the rules of the road. Please do not ride two abreast if there is traffic in either direction.

• For mornings with questionable weather, please call the ride leader to make sure the ride is still taking place. Ride leaders are obligated to go to the starting point and provide maps but may choose not to ride if the weather is miserable.

• Riders under the age of 18 must have a signed waiver from a parent.

• E indicates an easy ride, M is for moderate, and S is for strenuous.

• Rides begin promptly 15 minutes after the meeting time.

• Social rides are more leisurely versions of the mapped ride—usually the shorter route—with longer food breaks. Always contact the social ride leader before the ride to make sure those versions of the ride are taking place.

• Additional local social rides will be scheduled as weather permits in the Champlain Valley. Please email lightspd@comcast.net to be added to the social riders email contact list, which is the only guaranteed notification for these rides. Weekend social rides are usually announced by Thursday.

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16 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Outdoors

Cranes in the ‘hood

Elizabeth Bassett In recent years sandhill cranes have been observed in Vermont. So, what’s the big deal?

Well, among other things, sandhills (Antigone canadensis) are the oldest species of bird on earth; fossil records date them to about ten million years.

And cranes can dance! Considered the most accomplished dancers in the animal kingdom (other than people), adults teach their chicks, called colts, to dance when they are only a few months old.

Juveniles practice for several years before choosing a mate. Dancing can be a means of expressing excitement or frustration, releasing pent-up energy, and courtship.

Cranes announce their presence far and wide—their penetrating call can carry up to one mile.

Spectacular in flight, with long necks and legs extended beneath a six-foot wingspan, cranes can soar on air currents to 15,000 feet. These gray-feathered birds stand up to five feet tall and sport a white neck and red crown. Yet in their courtship plumage cranes appear rust colored. This coloring is not natural; the birds paint themselves each year with rust-laden mud that transforms their plumage. This rusty color helps camouflage them during

Photo by Elizabeth Bassett

mating and incubation. When they molt each summer cranes again turn gray until their mud bath the following spring.

Cranes are long lived and generally mate for life, returning to the same nesting area every year. In Colorado’s Yampa Valley the Sandhill population includes

one banded couple that has remained together for 26 years and a 41-year-old bird!

Cranes have only three functioning toes and thus cannot clasp branches that would allow them to nest in trees (like herons). Instead they seek protection from mammalian predators—coyotes, wolves and raccoons—by nesting and sleeping in or at the edge of water and wetlands.

Nests are heaps of weeds and wetland plants. The female usually lays two eggs, and the parents take turns incubating them for three to four weeks. Once the chicks hatch they grow at an astounding rate of a half to one inch per day, learning to dance in their second month. By the end of

summer juveniles must be able to fly up to 500 miles a day and soar over the Rocky Mountains on their fall migration.

Back to Vermont: A pair of sandhills settled in Bristol in 2005 and in 2007 successfully fledged a chick. In 2013 a second pair was seen consistently in Fairfield and confirmed to have bred.

To date there are no 2018 sightings, but in recent years a singleton or a pair have been spotted in Franklin, Brandon, Bristol Pond and on the ridge between West Rutland and Proctor. On Earth Day in 2016 Chris Rimmer, an ornithologist and executive director of the Vermont Center on Ecostudies, stumbled upon an unexpected gift: a family of cranes on the grounds of the state prison in Windsor.

Why would sandhills visit Vermont?

With the climate changing, and water and food supplies altering as a result, the range of cranes may be shifting to the Northeast.

Cranes are omnivores, but they prefer to bulk up on grains like corn, barley and wheat, before their fall migration. With western states becoming drier many farmers are shifting from growing crops to grazing animals. Eastern flyways host fields of corn and other grains, and Vermont is no exception. With pairs now also nesting in New Hampshire, Maine, New York and western Massachusetts, it is not clear if this recent influx of sandhill cranes represents a range expansion or recolonization of the species’ historic range.

One way or another keep your eyes and ears open for this unusual and extraordinary sight.

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The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 17

Education

CCS students learn fire safety from CVFR

On Friday, Sept. 14, Charlotte Central School 5th through 8th grade students participated in fire safety training with the Charlotte Volunteer Fire and Rescue. Firefighters Jordan Paquette and Fritz Tegatz talked with students on the dangers of fire, shared safety tips when dealing with a fire and demonstrated how to use a fire extinguisher. The students also got some hands-on experience with the fire hose.

Top right: Jordan Paquette and Fritz Tegatz setting up the fire truck. Top left: Using the firehose with Jordan. Bottom left: Jordan Paquette and his son Javin Paquette.

Right: Rob Mullin provides fire extinguisher training.

Photos by Jessica Lucia

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18 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

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Leavitty Still laughing and paddling This spring I got a kayak. Some would question the timing of getting a kayak in the midst of cancer treatment, but it was a very smart Josie Leavitt thing to do. There is something about cancer treatment, chemo particularly, that can make you feel like you’ll never have energy the way you used to before. Getting a kayak was my way of saying screw cancer. Defiance is one thing, practicality is another.

My first kayak outing was Memorial Day, which fell in the middle of my third round of chemo. I had been told that the fatigue of chemo was cumulative, and try as I might to not believe that, it was true.

My girlfriend and I set up my car with kayak carriers. I love my car, but it’s a tall SUV, which made the beginning and end of each trip practically agony as my very tired arms tried to hoist my 40-pound kayak back up to the car’s roof. The ease, or struggle, of this became a marker for my level of strength.

The maiden voyage was full of mistakes and mis-judgements. The first was that we put the kayaks on the car incorrectly because we tied knots in the straps. We realized this was an error when we rounded the corner onto 22A and we could see a kayak slipping down the car. Almost all the way down the car, practically dangling

by the passenger door. We regrouped and drove at 15 mph the rest of the way to Dead Creek.

We picked Dead Creek for our first paddle because it looked easy and beautiful.

It was gorgeous, complete with seeing six turtles happily sunning themselves on a log, a giant fish that practically leapt into the kayak and even a bald eagle. Pretty impressive for the first half of the paddle.

These amazing nature moments helped fuel my emptying tank. I paddled more slowly on the return trip. It meant so much to me to be on this creek with my girlfriend. I felt something hit my head. Something cold that almost hurt my bald head.

Somehow, on a stunningly sunny day, one dark cloud appeared and released a torrential downpour that followed us all the way back to the access point. The wind kicked up against us. I swear I could see white caps on the creek, birds gathered in the trees to watch us race back fearing thunder. There were long moments where I thought, “Damn, I’m not going to be able to make it back without some serious help.”

We were fighting what felt like hurricane force winds that made it feel like we were actually going backwards. At one point, after making some headway that let me know I wasn’t going to die on Dead Creek, sheets of rain began blinding us—we just started laughing.

Suddenly this was the funniest thing, ever. We celebrated being alive in that moment and we kept laughing. We’re still laughing and paddling.

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 19

Weary Pilgrim

Sunny Side Up

Falling back So here we go again … right around the first of September, the Big Guy Upstairs hits the thermostat, and Presto! The nights get colder, and in the daytime we go Mason Daring from too hot to just about right, and in the back of our minds lingers the memory of what lies just beyond autumn.

I swear, autumn is straight out of Faust—you make a deal with the devil as follows: “Here you go, Pal: You get, upfront, two beautiful months, the best of the year, and later all you have to pay is three or four months of biting winds, black ice, frozen doorlocks, and it gets dark at what seems like one in the afternoon— what do you say?” Sounds like a deal to me!

There are some fringe benefits: You don’t have to mow the lawn anymore, the bugs all go to Florida where they lie in wait for you, and if you’re into football you can get your heart broken on a weekly basis.

Remember the garage you were going to clean when things warmed up? It’s still there waiting for you. Schedule it for next week, and, if you’re like me, you can sneak it in right around the first snowfall.

And get out the can of Stabil. Pretty soon you get to pickle the lawnmower, weed-whacker, bush hog, etc. While you’re doing that, you’re going to try to recall if you properly put the snowblower away last April; if you didn’t, call the chiropractor and make an appointment.

Get ready for the time change—spoiler alert: it’s November 4. And if you’re like me, you can’t remember if Daylight Saving Time is what we’re on now or what we will be on November 4. Another spoiler alert: it’s what we’re on now—we go to Standard Time on November 4. (Little known facts: Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, although the tribal

lands in Arizona DO observe it. And did you know Newfoundland has its own time zone, which is one half hour off of the rest of the world? Why? Because they want to be cool. Which, of course they are.)

Other things to do on a Sunday afternoon when the football game you want to see is on Monday night: Switch the clothes out. Find the snow shovel. Decide the snow shovel is too bent to use again.

Buy a new snow shovel. Check your tire pressure (it got too high this summer in the heat and you let some air out of it so now it will be too low). On your next oil change, ask them to check the antifreeze.

On the subject of winter clothing: It got a lot better in the last several years.

Remember when you were 12 and Mom sent you out to play in the snow covered in a couple layers of itchy wool? Boy, who invented fleece? I would like to shake her hand. Polartec, fabric that wicks away moisture, boots that are actually waterproof AND warm—where would we be without these and whatever miracle products we will immediately buy as soon as the Eddie Bauer winter catalogue arrives?

One of the things I love about Vermont is that it does winter very well. Blizzard?

Lotsa snow? No biggie. Super cold? Get more wood, go stay with a friend if your furnace conks out. Super-high piles of snow along the highway are something to celebrate up here. Some of us welcome it, some of us suffer it, and some of us escape it. But none of us ever seem to dread it, Remember to schedule the chimney sweep. By the way, he’s booked until March.

Also, you know the 10 pounds you were going to lose this summer? You didn’t.

So now you have until Thanksgiving, the official start of the Eating Way Too Much season. Get cracking.

There is good news: You look great in turtlenecks. No, really, absolutely terrific.

Now, where did you put them?

Old and in the way I’ve been driving by the old dairy barn on Mount Philo Road for 22 years—you know the one, a couple of miles north of Charlotte Carrie Fenn Central School.

When I lived east of Route 7, I sometimes drove by it in upwards of six times a day. I was always fascinated by it—such a beautiful curiosity, imposing, impressive, a relic of Charlotte’s strong agricultural past.

I am not going to recount the barn’s history in this edition—I’ll leave that for another time. I can share its present and its future, however. Last year, my husband and I bought the five-acre lot the barn sat on. It had been through several attempts at resurrection: a failed bid to become an event facility, a dashed dream of a family home renovation.

Several local farmers considered basing some of their operations out of the structure, but the expense and regulatory concerns made this option unfeasible.

The barn, while incredible, was simply too big to remain on a five-acre lot.

After the barn became ours, we, too, went around and around trying to determine what to do with it. Turn it into a garage for the spec house we planned to build? Dismantle it and rebuild it on our own property? Sell it in pieces? All the options seemed daunting. But one day, the answer came in the form of a Charlotte neighbor, who has admired this barn for years. He stopped in the

driveway and offered to take it down and rebuild it on his own property. With the means and a crew, he is carefully deconstructing it down to the last beam and putting the pieces back together.

While we’ve been working at the site, people stop by every day. The stories abound.

“I took care of chickens in that barn all through high school.”

“My pony lived in that barn when I was a girl.”

“I’ve loaded a lot of hay into that barn.”

“Loaded a lot of hay into that barn.”

“Man, I loaded a lot of hay into that barn.”

In the 22 years I’ve been in town, I’ve never seen a human go in or out of that barn. But my Charlotte history is short, and, while the barn looks like a relic to me, it is part of a Charlotte present that is very much still alive. Charlotte’s rich farming culture is easily overlooked amidst our changing landscape, but it cannot be denied. We are a better town for the farmers that work our land, and while this one piece slips away, more will come in its place. We have our farming families that have been here for generations, and Charlotte is fortunate to have several young farmers who grow and raise food—from organic vegetables to free-range eggs to beef, pork and lamb.

I’d love to hear your stories and memories of the old barn on Mt. Philo Road. In the next installment of Sunny Side Up, I’ll share some history of the barn and the farm it was part of.

20 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Sports Redhawk cross country looking for 10 state titles in a row

While the Free Press seems often to focus on athletes other than crosscountry runners, it might Edd Merritt do well to take a glance at Coach Scott Bliss’s minions as they travel around Vermont, New England and upstate New York. Earlier this month CVU traveled across the pond to Latham, New York, to face crosscountry teams from eight upstate New York high schools. Both men and women finished very well, the women’s varsity topping the field, the men’s running second. Six CVU women placed among the top 25 individuals, with Redhawk medalist, sophomore Alice Larson, in first place followed closely by teammate senior Ella Whitman only 10 seconds behind her. Sadie Holmes in eighth, Chloe Andre in 13th, Cate Noel in 15th and Jasmine Nails in 22nd brought home the team victory.

Among Redhawk men, senior Jared Leonard landed in sixth place and sophomore Gavin Schaff in eighth; Skyler Heininger, Alec Mogielnicki and Jamie Williamson clustered in 15th, 16th and 17th places, with Caleb Nye 21st and Dylan Gooley 25th.

The previous week Larson won the Essex Invitational, running in course-record time of 18 minutes, 54.3 seconds for five kilometers. These feats led her to be named Vermont Varsity Insider Athlete of the Week over four other women, including her CVU colleague, another sophomore, soccer player Olivia Zubarik.

It is also tee time

Hinesburg’s Cedar Knoll golf course was the site of CVU men’s golf against Essex and South Burlington a week ago. Led by medalist Nate Godbout’s 39 for nine holes, the four Redhawks all came in lower than linksters from the other two schools.

Another Godbout, Elana, was among the low-score women on the Vermont National Course against seven other Chittenden County high schools. Elana and Courtney Vincent fell 10 shots behind the medallist from Saint Johnsbury Academy but lower than most individuals on the course.

Jay Brady soccer kickoff goes to CVU men

Essex may have been the site, but the trophy went to the Redhawk men’s soccer club. Sam Johnson had one of the goals in the opening 3 to 0 shutout of Rice, then followed up with a pair against Rutland in a second-game 4 to 0 shutout of Rutland. The two wins gave CVU the tournament over host Essex by goal differential.

The following week CVU and Essex went head to head and proved their equality in both the score—0 to 0—and the shots on goal, as each net minder stopped three. A CVU header came close to being the winning tally, but the Redhawks were called off side.

Field hockey goes to Essex

Scoreless for a half, the Hornets came back in the second period with two goals to win it for the visitors, 2-0. Redhawk goalie Christie Carlson saved ten shots to the Essex goalie’s two.

Redhawk soccer women keep fans on toes with two overtimes

Two overtime victories in three games and many fewer saves by CVU goalies than by their opponents must say something about what is a Redhawk trademark: strong defenders and controlled midfielders. It took a goal in the 99th minute, the only one in the game, for CVU to top Colchester recently and move its record to 3 and 0. Sarah Kelly scored with 60 seconds left in the second OT on a play that began with Sydney Jimmo’s sliding pass to Olivia Zubarik who sent a low cross to Kelly who hit the net from close in.

Mackenie Detch sets.

Jump to page 21

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Photo by Al Frey

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 21

Sports

Charlotte Central School cross country team runners (red) at the Charlotte Invitational at Palmer Fields.

Photo by Maura Wegmans

Jump From Page 20 Set it and spike it Olivia earned her nomination for Athlete of the Week through her strong play-making against Colchester, following her two second-half goals that she scored in a previous win over South Burlington.

The Boffas can’t do it all by themselves in football

Despite Charlotte sophomore Seth Boffa leading the Redhawk football backfield in rushing yards and touchdowns and his brother Cole serving in a leadership role as co-captain and a strong defender on the field, CVU has yet to enter the winning column this fall, losing to BFA and Rutland by fairly substantial margins. Then on Friday Essex pulled out a late-game win, scoring twice in the last one and a half minutes to top the Redhawks 22-8 despite Cole’s sack of the Hornet QB.

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Which is exactly what men and women did in their recent volleyball victories, both shutouts. The Redhawk men took the Hornets (Essex) 3-0 and the women put down the Green Knights of Rice by the same score.

CVU Mini-Metro basketball tryouts

The CVU gym will be the site of tryouts for 5th and 6th graders and 7th and 8th graders, both boys and girls, to play in

CCS soccer player Jonah Hutchin readies to kick in the first game of the season. CCS was defeated 6-3 against South Burlingon.

Photo by Jennifer Bora the Mini-Metro Basketball League. Those who wish to attend should sign up at https://sites.google.com/site/cvuminimetro in advance.

The tryout schedule is:

7-8 Boys: Monday, Sept. 24, 7 to 8:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 26, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

7-8 Girls: Saturday, Sept. 29, 2 to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 6, 9 to 11 a.m.

5-6 Boys: Monday, Oct .1, 7:30 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday, Oct. 3, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

5-6 Girls: Tuesday, Oct. 2, 7 to 8:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 4, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Players must live in Charlotte, Hinesburg, St. George, Williston or Shelburne. For more information, you may also call Ute Otley at 425-6549.

22 • September 19, 2018 • The Charlotte News

Charlotte Senior Center News SENIOR CENTER MENUS

Carolyn Kulik SENIOR CENTER DIRECTOR

It is time for a fond farewell to summer and also to those much-loved boat trips which have been made possible for 17 years(!) through the generosity of Capt. Al and Nancy Martin. This year’s fourth for 2018, and last, on 9/13 was on a pictureperfect day on the lake with a stop at Basin Harbor for lunch and camaraderie. There were newbies and many folks who had been on these trips a number of times over the years, and, somehow, Al has the ability to make strangers feel like old friends.

He skippers his vessel with accomplished seamanship—all the while informing his guests and making sure they have fun and enjoy the adventure. And for many years, Fraya and Greg Smith have been a crucial part of the team, providing invaluable help with planning and operations throughout each of the trips.

The Charlotte Senior Center is incredibly fortunate to have people who care so much and contribute their time, talent and expertise to make the Center such a special place.

In September On Tuesday, 9/25, Fall Hike #1 (Long Trail, Bolton along the Winooski River) is the first of five offered this season with Marty Morrissey. Meet at the Center at 8:50 a.m. Call for more information about this hike, or stop by to read the description at the host desk.

If you wish to stay inside on 9/25, you could stretch your mind with the new French Conversation Circle. It meets from 2:15 to 3:15 and is for intermediate and advanced speakers who can already carry on a conversation in that language.

Sign up for the remainder of the first session, or check out one class for $12.

On Wednesday mornings, from 9–10, come and experience Mindfulness, a form of meditation. See how it can benefit you by reducing stress, improving health and bringing both strength and serenity. There is no charge for this course.

The final Kayak Trip for Women trip will be on Friday, 9/28, to Chittenden Reservoir. Contact Susan Hyde directly for details: susanfosterhyde@gmail.com. No fee.

In October On Monday, 10/1, at 1 p.m., our neighbors from across the way will come by the Senior Center for two events.

Susanna Kahn, Charlotte Library’s Tech Librarian, will offer iPhone Help, answering your questions and providing some tips to make your iPhone more user friendly. If possible, email questions ahead of time to susanna.charlottelibraryvt@ gmail.com. Please bring your iPhone, preferably updated to the latest iOS. This program is free. Registration is required.

Also on 10/1, from 1–2 p.m. Library Director Margaret Woodruff will begin a three-meeting book group discussion on West Like Lightning: The Brief, Legendary Ride of the Pony Express

by Jim DeFelice. Although much romanticized, we probably know very

Suggested donation for all meals: $5

Monday Munch

11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

No reservations required.

September 24

Crustless quiche Greens Apple surprise

October 1 Vegetable ham barley soup with spinach pesto Tossed green salad Chocolate toffee crunchies

Wednesday Lunch All diners eat at noon.

Reservations required.

September 19

Chili dogs Chips Orange creamsicle floats

September 26

Oven-fried chicken Orange & baby spinach salad Roasted potatoes Homemade dessert

October 3

Beef Burgundy Tossed salad Birthday cake & ice cream

Senior Center group enjoys a beautiful day on the last boat trip of the year.

little about this early mail service, and the book is populated with a cast of characters that includes Abraham Lincoln, Wild Bill Hickok and Mark Twain. The group meets at the Senior Center. Copies will be available at the Senior Center and at the Charlotte Library. Registration required.

No fee.

On Tuesday, 10/2, Fall Hike #2 meets at 8:30 a.m. and will head for Snake Mountain, Addison. Registration for the hikes is required; no fee.

On Wednesday, 10/3, Bill Mares, local author and beekeeper, will present Bees Beseiged. These important insects have been much in the news recently as many of the nation’s 2.5 million colonies have been devastated. He will tell of the origins and evolution of beekeeping, sometimes referred to as “farming for intellectuals.”

On Thursday, 10/4, at 12:15 p.m. an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Review will be given; it is the only treatment for sudden cardiac arrest. Please register in advance. Also on Thursday from 2 to 7 pm. the Senior center will hold its Blood Drive with the American Red Cross. Remember, when you donate blood, you truly give the gift of life.

Art news On 9/26 at 1 p.m., everyone is invited to the Artists’ Reception for a chance to

Photos contributed

speak with participating artists about their work—and for light refreshments by the Friends of Charlotte Senior Center. Please note that artists will be picking up their work at 3 p.m. after the reception, so 9/26 will be your last chance to see this varied show.

October Art Exhibit This month will showcase the photography of Roeki Quartz who “aim[s] to evoke a sense of wonderment in the intricacies of the ordinary.”

Viewing art shows: Since the Center is utilized for many classes and events, the best times to see art shows are: Tuesdays & Wednesdays after 3 p.m.; Thursdays & most Fridays after 12:30 p.m. Call the Center to check on Sunday availability.

Call, or stop in, to register for the limited space in Lynn Cummings’ popular Watercolor Gone Wild! Starting on 10/2, it meets from 9 a.m. to noon and runs for 6 weeks. If you are a true beginner, please email the instructor. Registration required.

Fee is $185 for the series.

On 10/5, we will meet at 9 a.m. to carpool to Frank and Elain Ittleman’s Lemon Fair Sculpture Park in Shoreham.

At this magnificent rural setting, Frank will

Thursday Gents Breakfast*

7:30–9 a.m.

Reservations required.

September 27

Menu and Topic – TBA (Keep up to date on Menus with Front Porch Forum, as they sometimes change.)

guide visitors walking along the one-and-ahalf-mile loop which passes about a dozen large-scale outdoor artworks. Registration necessary. No fee.

There is so much more that takes place at the Center every week. Be sure to check the town website for more details—or come by to pick up a Fall Schedule if you don’t already have one. And if there is something you would like to suggest, we are always open to considering new possibilities.

See you soon.

_____________________ Charlotte Center (802)425-6345 Visit us at CHARLOTTEVT.org

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” ~ Winston Churchill

The Charlotte News • September 19, 2018 • 23

Calendar Saturday, September 22

Monday, September 24

Vermont Symphony Orchestra Masterworks featuring Peter Serkin at 7:30 p.m., Flynn Center for the Performing Arts. The VSO’s 84th season opens with VSO Music Director Jaime Laredo leading the VSO in an intensely beautiful work by George Walker, the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music. The legendary Peter Serkin performs Béla Bartók’s 3rd piano concerto, his final composition that was widely regarded as one of his masterpieces.

Brahms’ beloved fourth symphony will send you out singing! More information at vso.org/ event/masterworks-burlington-featuring-peterserkin/.

A panel/discussion: “Why Transition Towns, and why now?” 5:30–7 p.m., Jericho Town Library. Learn how the transition town movement builds resiliency in our communities. Reps from transition towns Charlotte (Ruah Swennerfelt), Williston (Marcy Kass) and Jericho (Laura Markowitz) lead an engaging discussion, snacks provided. All welcome! More info: transitiontownjericho.net.

The 20th annual Bristol Harvest Festival at the Bristol Town Green from10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Co-hosted by the Addison County Chamber and the Bristol Recreation Department.

Activities begin at 10 a.m. when the Town Green will come alive with 65+ crafters and vendors, demonstrations and live musical entertainment on the bandstand throughout the day.

Introduction to Reflexology, 10–11 a.m.

Shelburne Field House. What is it and how can it relieve stress and improve vitality?

A free one-hour presentation with Nancy Somers, certified reflexologist. Nancy is a respected teacher and presenter who has been teaching and practicing reflexology and yoga for 35 years. She is well-known for her lively, educational and entertaining presentations.

Please join her for this fun, informal presentation and demonstration of the ancient Chinese art of hands-on therapy for the feet and hands. Reflexology has been used for thousands of years to relieve tension and improve overall health. Nancy will introduce the fundamentals of reflexology and model some techniques that participants can try.

Please register at ute@shelburnefieldhouse. com. Questions? Call 802-318-3857.

Sunday, September 23 Hands to Honduras Tela Volunteer Meeting, 5 p.m. at the Shelburne Town Office, 2nd floor. An informational meeting for the February 2019 Hands to Honduras Tela humanitarian service trip. Looking for some warmth and adventure in February?

Consider joining the Hands to Honduras Tela team and make a difference for the community of Tela, Honduras. Volunteer weeks are February 9–23, 2019, with one- or two-week participation. Anticipated projects include painting the Tela Hospital postpartum mother-baby wing constructed by H2HT; constructing a classroom and a kitchen at two separate schools in a palm plantation; working with our health brigade in rural communities; enjoying children at public schools, art classes and fluoride clinics; helping with CPR training for the municipality; holding newborn babies; organizing and delivering much needed supplies... and more. Volunteers learn about the Teleño culture, enjoy the warm sun and beautiful sunsets and enjoy camaraderie with dedicated people who create extraordinary accomplishments while doing good in the world. For information please contact Linda Gilbert, director H2HT, email: lindaggilbert@ gmail.com.

Tuesday, September 25 Free Diabetes Prevention Program to begin at Porter Medical Center, at 4:30 p.m.

This program meets for 20-24 weeks and is designed to help people who are deemed atrisk for type 2 diabetes. Potential candidates are those considered prediabetic based on elevated results in glucose tolerance test, or A1C, or previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Some of the risks for diabetes include overweight, inactivity and family history of type 2 diabetes. The program is free; registration is required. For more info or to register contact Michele Butler of the community health team, 388-8860, or mbutler@portermedical.org.

Tuesday, October 2 Sheldon Museum talk by Jay Parini, Middlebury College literature professor, historian, and novelist, who will discuss and read the memorable and inspirational poetry prompted by WWI at noon at the Henry Sheldon Museum, One Park Street, Middlebury. The talk is part of a series of noon-time talks offered in conjunction with the Sheldon’s current exhibit, “Doughboys and Flyboys: WWI Stories by Vermonters From the Home and Battlefront.” Featuring histories, photographs, posters artifacts and mementoes of locals who served in the military during WWI, the exhibit coincides with the worldwide commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the November 11, 1918, armistice that ended the “War to End All War.” Free with museum admission. For more information call 802/388-2117 or visit HenrySheldonMuseum.org.

How cannabis affects the body and the brain, 6–7:30 p.m. At Carpenter Auditorium, the Given Building, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington. Peter Jackson, M.D., UVM assistant professor of psychiatry; Karen Lounsbury, Ph.D., UVM professor of pharmacology. Since July 1, 2018, recreational marijuana has been legal in Vermont, but what do we know about the positive and negative effects of cannabis in the body and the brain? Gain an understanding of the biologically active chemical components of the cannabis plant—CBD and THC—and how they are processed in the body, as well as the impact of cannabis on the developing brain in youth compared with the adult brain. Discussion will also include the medical value of cannabis chemicals and risk of addiction. To find out more visit med.uvm.edu/community_ medical_school.

Friday, October 5 Free diabetes management program at 9

Classifieds Reach your friends and neighbors for only $7 per issue.

(Payment must be sent before issue date.) Please limit your ad to 35 words or fewer and send it to The Charlotte News Classifieds, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 or email ads@thecharlottenews.org.

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Diabetes can cause serious health problems like heart disease, blindness and kidney failure. Our diabetes self-management workshop gives you the tools and support you need to manage your diabetes and prevent these serious problems. The workshop is free; registration is required. For more info or to register contact Michele Butler of the community health team, 388-8860, or mbutler@portermedical.org.

Saturday, October 6

Fall Meeting of the Vermont Old Cemetery Association. Coffee hour 9-10 a.m., business meeting at 10, lunch at 12. Lunch will be $12.00 per person and consist of macaroni and cheese, barbequed pulled pork and salad from the Vermont Country Deli. Please RSVP your reservation for lunch to tgifvt@msn. com by September 27th. After lunch Gail Golec, an archaeologist by profession and a cemetery enthusiast by choice, will share with us some of the stories she has learned while exploring cemeteries and researching the

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people beneath the stones.

Hawk Hill Cabinetry & Custom Woodwork is looking for an experienced millwork finisher. This is not an entry level position, a minimum of 4 years’ experience with spray finishing lacquer, paint, and glaze is required. Our ideal applicant will have the ability to match colors, develop colors, ensure excellent quality of finished product, understand production timelines, communicate effectively with the team, and abide by safety procedures required by OSHA. Additional requirements include; ability to work overtime as needed, ability to lift minimum of 50lbs, valid driver’s license.

THE TOWN OF CHARLOTTE IS ISSUING A REQUEST FOR BIDS TO REPLACE AND UPGRADE KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS, SINKS AND FAUCETS AT THE CHARLOTTE SENIOR CENTER

This is a full time hourly position offering competitive pay and benefits; including insurance, 401(k) company match and profit sharing, PTO, and paid holidays. If you are a highly motivated individual interested in joining a team oriented company, please send your resume to Amanda Locke, Naylor & Breen Builders, Inc 191 Alta Woods Brandon VT 05733 or email to alocke@naylorbreen.com

Please see the complete Request for Bids at

Hawk Hill Cabinetry & Custom Woodwork and Naylor & Breen Builders, Inc. are equal opportunity employers. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

www.charlottevt.org

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presorted standard