DESTINATION VT WINTER 2013-14

DestinationVT WINTER 2013

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WINTER EDITION 2013-14

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Open Studio Hours for Writers and Professional Meeting Space

The Writers’ Barn in Shelburne offers an affordable shared workspace where writers and other professionals will find the quiet of a library, and the focus and convenience of a daily office in the center of the village. Inquire about monthly memberships, punch-card passes, and daily rates for meetings.

Vermont offers a wide range of exciting business and job opportunities!

Let the Vermont Department of Labor connect you with Vermont’s great employers!

vermont job link.com

VERMONT DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Weekend and Evening Winter Workshops for Writers

Visit our website and Facebook page for our newest workshops: poetry, memoir, children’s picture books, young adults, and fiction!

For information and registration

contact Lin Stone (802) 985-3091 Lin@windridgebooksofvt.com www.windridgebooksofvt.com

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WINTER 2013-14 Destination VT is a quarterly publication, produced in Shelburne, Vt. by Wind Ridge Publishing, Inc. along the shores of Lake Champlain. We strive to provide both Vermont natives and transplants, daytrippers and vacationers, with a snapshot of the Green Mountain State’s artistic and cultural landscape.

Please direct all inquiries to: PO Box 752, Shelburne, VT 05482 (802) 985-3091 advertising@windridgepublishing.com

PUBLISHERS/EDITORS HOLLY JOHNSON GREG FORBER COPY EDITING LESLEY SNYDER LIN STONE ADVERTISING SALES HOLLY BURNHAM MARK LUND DESIGN CRAIG THOMAS GREG FORBER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LESLEY SNYDER LIN STONE HOLLY JOHNSON LETTIE STRATTON DARCY AND DALE CAHILL DAVID SCHERR CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS CRAIG THOMAS BEN SARLE DARCY AND DALE CAHILL

Changing lives

“Mountain Memories” by Kathleen Berry Bergeron, www.kathleenberrybergeron.com

More than 30 acadeMic prograMs over 40 student clubs and organizations rich cultural offerings 20 varsity sports

visit us on line WWW.castleton.edu or With a personal tour

Printed by Dartmouth Printing Co. COVER IMAGE // CRAIG THOMAS

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WINTER // 2013-14 DESTINATION VT

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DAILY THOUGH THE WINTER

DEC 6 TO JAN 5

R O C K E T- S H O E I N G A D V E N T U R E , Waitsfield Come and meet the infamous Mad River Rocketsled. Snowshoe up the Green Mountains along the Lincoln Gap road – which is closed during the winter due to the many curves and steep terrain – then rocketsled the whole length down. This fun and safe adventure will make you feel like an Olympic champion!

11 am-2 pm www.clearwatersports.com

NOV 30 TO JAN 1

FESTIVAL OF TREES AND LIGHT, Stowe This popular Stowe event began in 1980 and continues to replicate the spirit of the original Festival of Trees. Decorated trees represent a variety of cultures and countries of the world. The treasured show brings the community together to decorate evergreens, light Hanukkah lights and cover the walls of the Helen Day Art Center with members’ beautiful artwork. www.helenday.com

DEC 7

MANCHESTER MERRIMENT, Manchester Named a Top Ten Winter Event! This six-week celebration features tree lightings, inn tours, a lighted tractor parade, caroling, horse and wagon rides, cooking demonstrations, the Elf Express and more! A detailed schedule is available online. www.visitmanchestervt.com

DEC 6 TO 8

DEC 1

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, Hyde Park The stage version of one of the most loved holiday movies, performed by the Lamoille County Players at the Hyde Park Opera House. George Bailey learns an incredible lesson about all the lives he has touched, thanks to his guardian angel, Clarence, on Christmas Eve. Friday and Saturday 7 pm, Sunday 2 pm www.lcplayers.com

RÍ RÁ’S SANTA 5K, Burlington Vermont’s only all-Santa race! A 5K run or walk through historic Burlington – while wearing a full Santa suit. Participants receive a great Irish breakfast after the race at Rí Rá Irish Pub. 10 am www.events.runningroom.com

DEC 6 TO 8 AND 13 TO 15

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GINGER JOHNSON is a retired elementary teacher-turned-fiber artist. During the summer, she is Artist in Residence at the Fisk Farm Art Barn in Isle La Motte, Vermont. Ginger has previously published Paper Folding Fun and Christmas Ornaments, craft books for children. She lives with her husband on the Lake Champlain Islands of Vermont and cherishes being a grandparent to five grandchildren. Winters are spent in West Palm Beach where she enjoys working with endangered and injured sea turtles at the Loggerhead Marine Center.

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AN N UAL CH RI STMAS TOU R , Morrisville Celebrate Christmas with Dickens at the Noyes House Museum with a unique and unforgettable exhibition of the holiday classic “A Christmas Carol.”

1-5 pm www.noyeshousemuseum.org

Good Dad, Bad Dad, My Dad “Art” Appreciation ~ A Memoir

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DEC 7

Red Barn Books offers authors its professional support services to successfully produce customdesigned and high-quality books for entrepreneurial and personal publishing endeavors.

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19th ANNUAL BREWFEST PART 1, Smugglers’ Notch Sample the finest in local and regional beers with music, munchies and prizes. A DJ spins the tunes and the Resort’s Mountain Grille puts on a tasty appetizer buffet. Ages 21 and over. BrewFest Part 2 will take place March 29, 2014.

6 pm-10 pm www.smuggs.com

6TH ANNUAL SOUTH END HOLIDAY SHOP, Burlington Over 40 businesses, studios and artist markets will be open for holiday shoppers looking for those one-of-a-kind, locally-made gifts. Music, transportation, food and entertainment abound! www.seaba.com/holiday-hop

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www.windridgebooksofvt.com Contact: 802-985-3091 / Lin@windridgebooksofvt.com

WINTER 2013-14

DEC 7

RIVER OF LIGHT LANTERN PARADE, Waterbury The dazzling downtown annual River of Light Lantern Parade caps off the evening for this year’s Holiday Stroll and Rotary Tree Lighting Ceremony. Activities include friendly snowmen greeters, retail and restaurant special offerings and events and extended shopping hours. www.revitalizingwaterbury.org

DEC 7

CANDY CANE LAND, Burlington Join your friends at the Miller Community Recreation Center for a candy cane hunt. Afterwards, decorate a cookie, plant a seedling, craft a snowflake, write a letter to Santa and have fun with holiday characters.

11 am-3 pm www.enjoyburlington.com

DEC 7

HOLIDAY STROLL AND CRAFT FAIR, Vergennes Children of all ages can visit and stroll with Santa, join in holiday activities, craft shows and Christmas shopping. Eat breakfast with Santa and enjoy the annual Winter Holiday Craft Fair, Bixby Library Silent Auction and rotary wreath sale. Make decorations in Santa’s workshop, decorate cookies and much more.

7:30 am-6 pm www.addisoncounty.com

CALENDAR

DEC 7

SANTA TRAIN, Rutland Singing, dancing and an army of elves! Once the train reaches Santa’s Village, passengers are greeted by Mrs. Claus. It’s a Christmas tradition that children remember for a lifetime.

10 am, 12 pm, 1:30 pm, 3 pm, 4:30 pm www.catamountradio.com

DEC 7

C H R I S T M A S I N W E S TO N , We s t o n Experience an old-fashioned Christmas festival with tours, horse drawn wagon rides, Santa and caroling.

11 am-5 pm www.westonvt.com

DEC 7

THE TOYS TAKE OVER CHRISTMAS, Burlington For over 20 years, “The Toys Take over Christmas” has become a holiday tradition. Enter the magical toyshop where rag doll Sunny and friends attempt to warm the heart of the master toymaker, who selfishly wants to keep all the toys for himself. Performed at UVM’s Royall Tyler Theater, this holiday show is a proven crowd-pleaser, packed with holiday magic, color, music and laughs.

10 am, 2 pm, 6 pm www.uvmtheatre.org

DEC 7 AND 8

THE NORTH POLE EXPRESS, Lyndonville The family tradition continues with this very special Christmas train ride, departing from the Lyndonville station. Hop aboard the heated, vintage coaches as we travel north to pick up lively elves, Mrs. Claus, and – of course – Santa Claus!

12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, 6 pm www.thelyndonfreighthouse.com

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Exercising Equality with

VERMONT ADAPTIVE SKI AND SPORTS “Sports for Every Body” is more than just a slogan for the Killington-based Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports; it’s a mission accomplished. The organization provides accessibility to sports and recreational activities for people with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities.

From alpine skiing and snowshoeing to sailing and horseback riding, Vermont Adaptive’s 400 volunteers and six yearround staff members accommodate, instruct and empower athletes with a wide range of disabilities – including autism, deafness, quadriplegia and paraplegia, cancer, and blindness. While offering a variety of seasonal programs, Vermont Adaptive takes requests for new activities. If participants want to try something new on the slopes, this organization can certainly adapt.

From its humble beginnings as a small ski program, Vermont Adaptive has grown to serve more than 2,000 adults and children annually. Now in its 26th year, Vermont Adaptive has set the pace for other non-profit organizations. Their services and specialized equipment are available to athletes of all ages – yearround and seven days a week. During the ski season, winter programs are hosted in Killington, Warren and Bolton. The summer weather affords the expansion of their services to statewide locations.

While Vermont Adaptive is now the largest non-profit of its kind, this organization doesn’t rest on its ores. They recently teamed up with Pico Ski Education Foundation to build the Andrea Mead Lawrence Lodge at Pico Mountain, a 6,000 square-foot headquarters to serve their athletes, programs and events. The Lodge opened its door this past November and will be operational during all four seasons.

Vermont Adaptive and its family of volunteers donate more than 15,000 hours each year to ensure that the region’s landscape can be enjoyed by all – from its mountain peaks to its miles of paths. To participate, volunteer, or donate, visit www.vermontadaptive.org or call (802) 786-4991.

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Kathy Bergeron painting inside The Store in Waitsfield for the Holiday Paint-In.

DEC 7 AND 8

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE & HOLIDAY PAINT-IN, Waitsfield/ Warren A two-day holiday event where shoppers can receive prizes, treats and great discounts. Get a punch card at a participating merchant, visit five participating stores, and leave your card with the fifth merchant to be entered into a prize drawing! On Saturday, easels and artists will set up to capture the day’s hustle and bustle. Following the event, many of the works will be available for purchase. www.madrivervalley.com

DEC 13

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Burlington Featuring a 24-member cast, a live orchestra, elegant costumes, lively dancing and show-stopping special effects, Nebraska Theatre Caravan’s beautifullystaged musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol, is a perennial Flynn Theater holiday favorite.

This beloved performance shares the tale of tight-fisted, middle-class merchant Ebenezer Scrooge and ultimately shows that a greedy world can be healed by brotherhood and unselfishness.

7 pm www.flynntix.org

DEC 13 TO 15

CH RI STMAS AT TH E FARM AN D WASSAIL WEEKEND, Woodstock Tour the festively-decorated 1890 Farm House at Billings Farm & Museum, and make a historic ornament as a memento of your visit. Horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides on Sunday, weather permitting.

10 am–3:30 pm www.billingsfarm.org

DEC 13 TO 15

VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S H O LI DAY P O PS , B a r re/B u r l i n g to n/ Rutland The VSO performs their Holiday Pops concer t , “Aroun d th e World at Christmastime,” with Vermont writer/ commentator/marathoner/singer/historian/ beekeeper Bill Mares as guest emcee. The festive program features favorite tunes from Russia, England, France, the Ukraine and Brazil.

Dec. 13 at 7:30 pm: Barre Opera House, Barre D e c . 1 4 at 7: 3 0 p m : Fl y n n T h e ate r, Burlington Dec. 15 at 3 pm: Paramount Theatre, Rutland www.vso.org

DEC 14

VICTORIAN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE, St. Johnsbury Ring in the holiday season with your neighbors and friends at the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium. The Victorian gallery sparkles with lights, and holiday music fills the air. You’ll be able to make crafts with natural materials for decorating and giving. A special planetarium presentation explores the holiday night sky.

1:30-4 pm www.fairbanksmuseum.org

DEC 14

9TH ANNUAL TOUCH OF VERMONT HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET, Montpelier Spread the word about the amazing products made in Vermont by giving them as gifts! At Montpelier City Hall, your purchase from these 40 Vermont artisans supports O.U.R. House of Central Vermont.

9 am-4 pm www.touchofvt.org

WINTER 2013-14

CALENDAR

DEC 14

AN IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA , Stowe This fun-filled, family evening at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center is filled with boundless energy, traditional Irish music, history, humor and dance! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Vermont Foodbank. www.sprucepeakarts.org

DEC 14 AND 15

M A D R I V E R C H O R A L E H O L I D AY C O N C E R T, Wa r r e n / Wa i t s f i e l d “A n Evergreen Holiday: Traditional Songs of the Season” is a joyous opening to the December holiday season, with a program of old favorites and audience participation in a rousing sing-along.

Dec. 14 at 7:30 pm: Waitsfield United Church of Christ Dec. 15 at 4 pm: Warren United Church of Christ www.madriverchorale.org

SEE PAGE 35 FOR PUZZLES

DEC 14 AND 15

THE POLAR EXPRESS, Burlington/White River Junction A family holiday adventure that brings the story alive! Passengers are encouraged to wear pajamas. Each child is asked to donate a new or gently used children’s book to Santa’s sack. Hot coca, cookies, a conductor-lead sing-along, a reading of “The Polar Express” and a visit from Santa! www.vtchildrenstrust.org www.hartfordvtpolarexpress.com

DEC 15

COOLIDGE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE, Plymouth Notch Return to a simpler time at the Coolidge Holiday Open House.

Plymouth Notch is the birthplace and boyhood home of Calvin Coolidge. The village is virtually unchanged since the early 20th century. Many of the museum buildings at the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site will be open, free of charge, from 10 am-4 pm. There will be horse-drawn sleigh rides (or wagon rides, depending on weather). Several Vermont artisans will be on site demonstrating traditional crafts, and the Coolidge Foundation will offer a variety of children’s holiday activities.

10 am-4 pm www.historicsites.vermont.gov

DEC 19 TO 23

VSO BRASS QUINTET WITH COUNTERPOINT, Warren/Jay/Grafton/ Manchester/Brandon The Counterpoint Chorus joins the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet for another heart-warming celebration of the holiday season. This program includes holiday favorites such as “Jingle Bell Rock” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” as well as concerto excerpts by Handel and Vivaldi.

Dec. 19 at 7:30 pm: Warren Church, Warren Dec. 20 at 7:30 pm: Jay Peak Resort, Jay Dec. 21 at 5 pm: The White Church, Grafton Dec. 22 at 4 pm: First Congregational Church, Manchester Dec. 23 at 7 pm: Congregational Church, Brandon www.vso.org

DEC 21 AND 22

VERMONT’ S OWN “ NUTCRACKER,” Burlington The Flynn Theater welcomes the Vermont Ballet Theater for its ninth season of their beloved production of “The Nutcracker.”

Follow the delightful adventures of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince as they conquer the evil Mouse King and travel on a mystical journey to The Land of Sweets.

Saturday 2 and 7 pm, Sunday 1 and 6 pm www.flynntix.org

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WINTER // 2013-14 DESTINATION VT

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DEC 21 AND 22

JAN 11

ELF EXPRESS, Manchester This whimsical holiday train takes riders on a one-hour enchanting journey through the Green Mountains of Southern Vermont. Passengers will be entertained with holiday melodies and dance routines by the elves of the theater and dance program of Burr and Burton Academy. Refreshments will be served.

Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will make a surprise visit to provide every child with a special gift.

10 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm, 2:30 pm, 4 pm www.manchesterlionselftrain.com

19th ANNUAL WINTER TRAILS DAY, Statewide Winter Trails Day offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing without fees. Discover the great fitness and social benefits with these easy-to-learn winter sports. The event includes almost 100 resorts and Nordic Centers nationwide and gets 11,000 kids and adults on the snow each year. www.snowlink.com

JAN 11

DEC 22

RACE TO THE CABIN, Stowe A 5k ski classic point-to-point beginning at the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center and ending at the Slayton Pasture Cabin. The race is mass start and self-seeded. Dry clothes will be taken up for you.

9 am-4 pm www.trappfamily.com

ANNUAL MESSIAH SING, Middlebury Sing, play or enjoy listening to favorite choruses from Handel’s “Messiah” at Middlebury Congregational Church. Singers and orchestra players welcome. A holiday tradition led by Jeff Rehbach, Middlebury College Community Chorus conductor.

2 pm www.middlebury.edu

DEC 28

RUCKUS: A CIRCUS SPECTACULAR, Stowe A stunning display of circus arts with trapezists, jugglers, contortionists and more! Featuring an award-winning cast whose résumés include Cirque du Soleil, Cirque Eloize and the Big Apple Circus, this show at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center is perfect for the family and special enough for a date night out. www.sprucepeakarts.org

DEC 31

FIRST NIGHT BURLINGTON, Burlington Vermont’s largest single-day arts festival will take place in 20+ venues throughout downtown Burlington. The 31st edition of this extravaganza will feature fireworks; a parade; and stellar performances by Kat Wright and the Indomitable Soul Band, Circus Smirkus, the Burundian Women’s Dance Company, Burlington Taiko, the Vermont Youth Orchestra & Chorus, the DuPont Brothers Band, Gregory Douglass and many more. Please call or visit the website for button prices and packages. www.firstnightburlington.com

JAN 18 JAN 4 AND 5

SNOW CREATION KICKOFF, Smugglers’ Notch Come on out and join the fun of creating your very own snow castle. Watch as our creations go up around the village and at the lift stations. Make a fort or a snowman – even stretch out and give us your best snow angel! www.smuggs.com

JAN 4 AND 5

VPT’S EVENING INSPIRED BY DOWNTON ABBEY, Essex A Downton Abbey-themed culinary, educational and cultural event at Essex Cinemas and Essex Resort and Spa to benefit Vermont Public Television. www.vpt.org/downton

JAN 10

JANE AUSTEN WEEKEND: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, Hyde Park The Governor’s House hosts a leisurely weekend of literaryinspired diversions in a beautiful Regencystyle mansion. Enjoy a talk over dessert, afternoon tea, dinner with a book discussion of Pride and Prejudice and Sunday brunch.

Optional sleigh ride. Join as many activities as you like or hide away all weekend with the movies. Dress in whichever century suits you. www.onehundredmain.com

JAN 11

STOWE NORDIC BKL MINI-MARATHON, Stowe A fun family tour (not a race) geared to Bill Koch League skiers and their families at Stowe Mountain Resort Cross Country Center. There are even food stops to fuel your adventure! Choose a distance that you can complete in a maximum of 3.5 hours: 22K, 15K or 5K. This is a timed tour with alphabetical results with terrain best suited to classical skiing. Limited to first 160 entrants. Chili feed at the end! www.skireg.com

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BURLINGTON CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CONCERT, Colchester The Burlington Chamber Orchestra kicks off a “Week of Excellence” at St. Michael’s College with a performance of works by Mozart and Haydn.

7:30 pm www.bcovt.org

JAN 18 TO FEB 2

STOWE WINTER CARNIVAL, Stowe Stowe shines with activities for both young and old, from zany sports events to ice carving competitions, movies, Kids Carnival Kaos and the infamous Snow-golf and Snow-volleyball tournaments. www.gostowe.com

JAN 18 TO 20 AND FEB 15 TO 23

SLEIGH RIDE WEEKENDS, Woodstock Horsedrawn sleigh rides, sledding with jack jumper sleds and activities for all ages will be featured at the Billings Farm & Museum’s Sleigh Ride Weekends.

10 am-3:30 pm www.billingsfarm.org

JAN 19

STOWE TOUR DE SNOW, Stowe Voted a Top 10 Winter Event, the Tour de Snow is both simple and genius. On the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path, families and friends ski, walk, snowshoe or run. The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum will run a “Vintage Cross-Country Ski Race” simultaneously. It’s a day of fun-filled activities! www.stowetourdesnow.com

JAN 24

JANE AUSTEN WEEKEND: SENSE AND SENSIBILITY, Hyde Park The Governor’s House hosts a leisurely weekend of literary-inspired diversions in a beautiful Regency-style mansion, with a talk over dessert, afternoon tea, dinner with a book discussion of Sense and Sensibility and Sunday brunch. Optional sleigh ride. Join as many activities as you like or hide away all weekend with the movies. Dress in whichever century suits you. www.onehundredmain.com

WINTER 2013-14

JAN 25

NICA ICE CARVING COMPETITION, Stowe The country’s best amateur and professional ice carvers compete by creating frozen masterpieces in the Spruce Peak Plaza at Stowe Mountain Resort.

Noon-4 pm www.stowe.com

FEB 1

C R A F T S B U RY M A R AT H O N , Craftsbury The Craftsbury Outdoor Center hosts a 25/50k of the best classic skiing in Vermont. www.craftsbury.com

FEB 1

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY, Stowe Rudolf Nureyev State Ballet Theatre of Russia performs the world’s most beloved fairytale at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center. The principal dancers are competition-winners, trained in St. Petersburg, the Bolshoi Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, Grogorovich Ballet, Russian Ballet, Cairo Ballet and the Tchaikovsky Ballet Theatre.

7 pm www.sprucepeakarts.org

FEB 1

BURLINGTON WINTER FESTIVAL, Burlington Glistening with snow sculptures, ice carvings and activities for people of all ages, the Burlington Winter Festival is a great way to experience the beauty of Burlington’s Waterfront. Teams compete in the Snow Carving Competition. www.enjoyburlington.com

FEB 8

19TH ANNUAL PENGUIN PLUNGE, Burlington Join Special Olympics Ve r m o nt fo r t h e 1 9 t h A n n u a l B urling ton Penguin Plunge at Burlington’s Waterfront Park. Invite your friends, co-workers, family or classmates to brave the icy waters of Lake Champlain with you to raise awareness and funds for the 900+ athletes of Special Olympics Vermont.

11 am plunge time www.penguinplunge.org

FEB 23

FEB 13 TO 16

WRIGHT’S NORTHEAST KINGDOM FISHING DERBY, Newport Fishing in the winter?

You bet! Observe or compete to catch the big one. Hook awards in the salmon, trout, walleye and pike categories. www.wrightssports.com

FEB 14

VA L E N T I N E ’ S DAY W I T H THE GRYPHON TRIO AND PATRICIA O’CALLAGHAN , Burlington For this concert celebrating Valentine’s Day, The Gryphon Trio – an accomplished classical piano group – is joined by the silken-voiced jazz/classical singer Patricia O’Callaghan at UVM’s Recital Hall. The program, entitled “Broken Hearts and Madmen,” features beautifullyarranged love songs by Nick Drake, Elvis Costello, Laurie Anderson and Leonard Cohen; as well as songs and tangos from the Latin American art song repertoire.

7:30-9 pm www.uvm.edu/laneseries

FEB 14 TO 16

CHESTER WINTER CARNIVAL, Chester True community spirit in classic Vermont! Sled races, a scavenger hunt, dogsled rides, outdoor skating, bonfire, ice skating party and more. The weekend kicks off with a Winter Carnival Dinner on Friday. Voted a Top 10 Winter Event by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. www.yourplaceinvermont.com

FEB 14 TO 23

58TH ANNUAL BRATTLEBORO W I N T E R C A R N I VA L , Brattleboro Fun for all ages at locations all across town: kids activities, live music, sporting competitions, comedy, pancakes and other comfort foods, skating, skiing, sleigh rides and more. www.brattleborowintercarnival. org

FEB 15

Annual Penguin Plunge in Burlington.

Photo courtesy of Leif Tillotson.

CALENDAR

IGLOO BUILD, Norwich Learn how to build an insulated, sturdy house at Montshire Museum – strong enough to support the weight of a polar bear – using nothing but water and a handsaw!

10:30 am-2 pm www.montshire.org

FEB 15 AND 16

FRED HARRIS MEMORIAL SKI J U M PI N G TOU R NAM ENT, Brattleboro Jumpers from the US and abroad compete in this annual competition on a 90-meter, Olympic sized ski jump. Music, food and breathtaking jimps not to be missed. www.harrishillskijump.com

FEB 16 TO 23

STOWE M O U NTAI N FI LM FESTIVAL, Stowe Held in the outdoor paradise of Stowe, this eagerly-anticipated event is a celebration of mountain sports and culture. Each year, the newest releases from the outdoor film i n d u s t r y ’s to p p ro d u c t i o n companies – along with submission from promising amateur filmmakers – converge on the Green Mountain. www.vtssm.com

S TOW E D E R BY, S towe The challenge is the same today as it was at the Derby’s inception in 1945 – a race from the top of Mt. Mansfield to the historic village of Stowe. Attracts re c re a t i o n a l s k i e r s a n d professionals alike! www.stowederby.com

FEB 28 TO MARCH 2 19th ANNUAL MAGIC HAT MARDI GRAS WEEKEND, B u r l i n g to n E a c h M a r d i G ras We e ke n d features an ice - breaking concer t on the night b efore the parade hits the streets. Tens of thousands of revelers, f lo at s , b ea ds an d m o on pies, the Mardi Gras Parade has grown so large over the years, it will be rolling up the only street big enough to accommodate 25 ,000+ screaming people and their excitement: Main Street in Burlington. www.magichat.net

FEB 20

F A M I LY F U N M A G A Z I N E WINTER CARNIVAL, Smugglers’ Notch Always a family favorite!

FamilyFun Magazine teams up with Smugglers’ for this special Winter Carnival on the Village Green, featuring music and live entertainment plus face painting, games, a bonfire, giveaways and an outdoor barbeque.

2 pm www.smuggs.com

WZXP

97.9 fm The

Album Station

musicheads.us

Radio for people who know music.

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CHIEF DON STEVENS &

THE NULHEGAN ABENAKI words // Lesley Snyder photos // Craig Thomas “WE KNOW WHO WE ARE”

I

t has been a long, long fight, and Chief Don Stevens’ poignant words encapsulate the pride and passion of his Nulhegan Abenaki tribe. Only in his third year of office, Stevens has made a historical dent in his bucket list, acquiring state recognition for the Nulhegan and their first communal land in 200 years – 68 acres in the Northeast Kingdom. The devotion to his homeland extends past the Nulhegan’s acreage; Stevens is a U.S. Army Veteran from a multigeneration military family. Efforts as tribe liaison have gained the Abenaki a vital source of income, as state recognition allows the Nulhegan to label and price their artistry as Native American-made. Stevens is devoted to compiling and documenting Nulhegan history, not only educating the next Abenaki generation but enlightening the outside world.

“Without education,” Stevens reminds, “there is only ignorance left in its place.”

How do you muster the courage and resilience to confront Vermont legislators?

“Our ancestors and elders deserved no less than a complete effort from their leaders. We are on the brink of extinction, so we have to do what we

can to preserve ourselves for the wellbeing of our children … Confronting legislators is a losing strategy … The old strategy of bulling your needs and protesting does not work. When you are a minority block of people and do not have a lot of voting power, you need to work within the system and not against the grain. You need to show yourself as being united for a common cause so others will become vested with your cause. We found that there are a lot of great legislators in the State House that really did care about the Abenaki people and wanted to correct a wrong that had been done to us for so many years. Without that support, we would not be where we are today.”

What does it mean to be a “steward of the land” as a Native American, and how does it compare with Vermont’s efforts for sustainability and selfsufficiency?

“I personally feel that we have the same goals. Native people are connected to the earth, and many Vermonters are as well. We believe that no one can own the earth but only be good stewards of it while we are alive. This is an area that the State of Vermont and the Abenaki people can find common ground and be able to help each other ... We are starting this process by working with Vermont organizations to grow ancient Abenaki seeds … and provide nutrition to those who seek natural foods that are native to this land.”

How do you preserve your culture while thriving in the 21st century?

“That is the million-dollar question.

We constantly try to find ways for our children to get involved. Many families who can be citizens of the tribe chose to just be Americans. It is always much easier to blend in and go with the norm than it is to stick out in a crowd, especially around friends. It was never popular to be Indian for our ancestors and is still an issue today … The people who actively participate walk in both worlds. I will always be an American, but I will also always be Abenaki…”

Life as a Native American “Native Americans are the only race of people who have to carry a card in their wallet and prove who they are … If you are Native American and declare that you are an Indian, you have to prove who you are to the Euro-American government. You must be judged before you are protected against federal prosecution or afforded any protections under the law … If you somehow fall short of recognition, your identity and self-determination comes into question with the outside world … This is why we fight for what we believe in and why the struggle is so important to Native people …

“Culture is something to be cherished, no matter your ethnic background, so please teach your children and grandchildren to be proud of who they are.”

WINTER // // 2013 2013-14 DESTINATION VT WINTER Destination Vermont

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Wind RIDGE o f v e r m o nt

W

THE BACH ROAD TO BOSTON

10% of net profits donated to our charitable partners in

nt

books

Books by Bill Mares

dR rm i d g e B k s o f Ve oo

o

Available at your local bookstore or online at:

www.WindRidgeBooksofvt.com

NEW releases HIGH TEA AT A LOW TABLE

Stories from an Irish Childhood ANGELA PATTEN Memoir Charitable Partner:Shelburne Farms $15.95 / ISBN 978-1-935922-28-5 Poet Angela Patten delivers a charming and intelligent memoir of her colorful Dublin childhood contrasted with the sobering shadow and metaphor of an all-American kidnapping.

High Tea at a Low Table Stories from an Irish Childhood

A n g e l A PAt t e n

KIN

Kin Poems

Daniel Lusk

DANIEL LUSK Poetry Charitable Partner: The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum $15.95 / ISBN 978-1-935922-27-8 Daniel Lusk’s newest poetry collection sings of the Northeast Kingdom’s forest and wildlife primordial; “Without bears, bats, or fire,” he asks, “What is there to worship?”

I WISH HE’D TAUGHT ME HOW TO SHAVE DAVE LANDERS, PH.D Non-fiction Charitable Partner: The Dave H. Landers Scholarship Fund at Saint Michael’s College $16.95 / ISBN 978-1-935922-26-1 Saint Michael’s College professor Dave Landers compiles student essays from his popular Men& Masculinities course and reflects upon the ways that society’s limiting views of masculinity and fathers influence their children’s defining views of a man.

LOOSIE B. GOOSIE

DAVE LANDERS, Ph.D

MARILYN WEBB NEAGLEY, ILLUSTRATED BY ABBY STONER Childrens Book Charitable Partner Shelburne Farms Paperback $9.95 LOOSIE B. GOOSIE ISBN 978-1-935922-16-2 Hardcover $18.95 ISBN 978-1-935922-34-6 A picture book for young children telling the true story of a rescued goose on Shelburne Farms that could Marilyn Webb Neagley not fly south for the winter with her Abby Stoner friends; what would Loosie do?

Illustrations by

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BILL MARES Memoir $16.95 / 978-1-935922-22-3 Red Barn Books of Vermont Bill Mares takes readers with him on a journey to take part in two masterpieces within in a single 27-hour period: sing with a choir performing Bach’s epic St. Matthew Passion, and then change his tuxedo for running gear and finish the Boston Marathon. Bach Road to Boston doesn’t miss a step or note.

The Bach Road to Boston

Bill Mares “A truly delightful and moving book, from a deeply accomplished writer (and singer, and runner!)”

— Bill McKibben

BREWING CHANGE

Behind the Bean at Green Mountain Coffee Roasters RICK PEYSER AND BILL MARES Non-fiction $19.95 / 978-1-935922-10-0 Wind Ridge Books of VT Charitable Partner: Food 4 Farmers The story of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters’ Rick Peyser’s undaunted efforts to move the needle on rural poverty in coffee-farming communities around the world – his determination managed to shift the mindset of an entire industry.

BREWING CHANGE Behind the Bean at Green Mountain Coffee Roasters RICK PEYSER • BILL MARES FOREWORD

BY BOB STILLER 1

3:14 AND OUT

A Collection of Vermont Public Radio Commentaries BILL MARES Non-fiction $14.95 / 978-1-935922-07-0 Wind Ridge Books of VT Mares delights and provokes us with these wonderful short essays – whether contemplating the social patterns and work habits of bees or the rhythms and poetry of Vermont Town meetings.

Additional Books by Bill Mares 1.

2.

Bees Besieged, 2005, A.I. Root Co. The Vermont Owner’s Manual, with Frank Bryan, 2000, New England Press 3. Fishing with the Presidents, 1999, Stackpole Books 4. Out of Order, with Frank Bryan, 1991, New England Press 5. The Vermont Secession Book, with Frank Bryan, 1991, New England Press 6. Making Beer, 1984, 1993, Knopf 7. Real Vermonters Don’t Milk Goats, with Frank Bryan, 1983, New England Press 8. Working Together, with John Simmons, Knopf 9. The Golden Ode, with William Polk, University of Chicago Press 10. Passing Brave, with William Polk, 1973, Knopf 11. The Marine Machine, 1971, Doubleday

BILL MARES // WORD CARVER

By Lin Stone // Photo Craig Thomas What are the challenges and opportunities for today’s writers?

“If you aren’t primarily concerned about writing for money and expenses, but chiefly want to have your thoughts laid down and read by others, then I think there have never been more opportunities. Self-publishing and vanity presses used to be a pejorative term – it was like selling sex at the back of the NY Times; but now, it’s quite acceptable.”

What advice might you offer?

“My advice for people who want to write and make a lot of money? I don’t have any advice for them! I think that the huge challenge is that more and more people are writing books for a public that reads less and less. But if, as Rilke says, you’ve heard a voice awaken you at 4am and tell you to write—then make sure you have a good story to tell – because otherwise, why should anyone else read you?”

What is your perspective on the dramatic changes and shifting landscape in the publishing world?

“Writing is tough. I look upon it as a craft, much like furniture making or any other serious hobby: learn to be a master craftsman and plane, sand, and oil your story. Have a good story to tell and love language – manipulating sounds, words, and ideas. Finding the right word, as Twain says, is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug. Then find a good editor, like my wife, who’ll tell you the truth early on. Start with that. Many writers want it to be a painless process, but it’s not. I’m a Calvinist on this.”

red Barn books o f v e r m o nt

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words // Lesley Snyder photos // Craig Thomas

S

hreddin’, carvin’, tearin’ it up: it’s no secret that snowboarders have their own gnarly lingo. But there’s one word synonymous with snowboarding that has become a universal household name: Burton. Now the largest snowboard brand, Burton is a company with a conscience.

The industry leader has created a boarding empire while applying grass-roots efforts for sustainability on a corporate scale.

Burton Snowboards founder Jake Burton moved to Vermont in 1977.

Utilizing his Londonderry barn as a workshop, Jake began selfconstructing and self-testing “Burton Boards” prototypes and selling them out of his station wagon. From spearheading a venturesome startup – hand routing every snowboard, more or less alone – Jake is now the CEO of what is a multi-million dollar success story, co-owned by his wife and Burton’s president, Donna. Its merchandise has since expanded to include apparel, boots, bindings and snowboarding accessories. The

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company stays headquartered close to home, in Burlington, Vt., but its stores are spread across the globe, reaching Austria, Australia and Tokyo.

While much of Burton’s booming business spills over Vermont’s borders, it’s apparent that the environmentally-friendly, sociallyresponsible corporate philosophy is rooted in the Green Mountains. A passion for sustainability is woven into the fabric of the company – literally. Working with Mountain Dew, empty soda bottles are upcycled into thread for Burton apparel. Since 2008, Burton’s factory implements the Green Mountain Process, using sustainable materials and ecofriendly manufacturing. Burton joined with bluesign technology to reduce the environmental impact of its products. A “Restricted Substances List” is enforced throughout factories, and Burton is working to bring in as many bluesign-approved fabrics as possible. As a corporate gold partner of Protect Our Winters (POW), Burton has contributed over $10,000 to safeguard the planet against global warming. On Earth Day 2013, Burton launched a POW-

inspired Instagram campaign, encouraging riders to photograph how they are taking care of our winters.

Concern for the environment is echoed inside the corporate offices. Burton’s EPIC program (Environmental Protection, Integrity, Conservation) consists of a committee of employees invested in improving their eco-impact. Past EPIC initiatives include a “green” kitchen (free of disposable products), group bus schedule to company events and an organic vegetable garden.

Burton champions alternative transportation both on and off the slopes. Not only did Jake fight to make local resorts snowboardaccessible, Burton recently received a silver ranking by the League of American Bicyclists for their cyclefriendly workplace. The company provides no-cost bus passes, loaner bikes, and Free Bagel Fridays for alternative commuters and hosts an annual competition for the most creative commute to work (paddleboarding, anyone?). With a casual dress code, even arriving to the office via flip-flops is acceptable.

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Jake describes snowboarding as a “fountain of youth,” and it appears he’s right. Burton created what had been a mere fantasy for the adult workforce: grown-up snow days.

If the ground sees over two feet of snow in a day, offices close and employees are sent to the slopes for snowboarding.

esteem and the development of life skills in urban youth – while on the slopes!

While committing to preserve its natural resources, Burton also takes care to create a symbiotic relationship with snowboard enthusiasts. Created in 1998, Burton’s “Learn to Ride” program provides new snowboarders (as young as three years old) with specialized instruction and beginner-specific equipment at its 185 Learn to Ride Centers worldwide. Jake and Donna wanted to make the slopes even more accessible by founding the nonprofit Chill Foundation, which has introduced snowboarding to over 17,500 at-risk kids. A minimum of one percent of Burton’s pre-tax dollars is donated to Chill, supporting its mission to foster self-

“We are riders, and we take climate change personally.”

Burton is continually working to lessen its environmental footprint, to ensure that its equipment – from boards to beanies – is as sustainable as its ethos.

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words // Lin Stone Photo // Craig Thomas

C

ameron (Cami) Davis is a senior lecturer with the Department of Art and Art History and a Sustainability Fellow at the University of Vermont.

She teaches painting, drawing, and courses on art, ecology and community. Davis considers her paintings to be her primary vehicle for exploring issues of conscious perceptions and living sustainably in a warming world.

Artist and Environmentalist?

“I’ve been occupied with concern about climate change for the last 12 years and am a member of an eco-artists’ 18

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network. But I don’t like to paint botanical drawings that are divorced from context in the world; they seem empty and sad to me. I try to paint my love and concern for earth with a great deal of context and want my paintings to be more of a loving conversation with earth—an emotional aquifer.

I want to elicit a contemplative and immersive gaze, one where viewers are drawn deeper into the shadows and shapes, images and emptiness, and take note of where the dappled light falls when it emerges from dark…“

[environmental] emergency and emergence.“

“I have an enormous sense of loss and grief when I realize the meaning and implication of glaciers melting and seas rising, so I try to paint this parallel sense of grief and beauty, loss and renewal, and most particularly,

“I collaborated on this project with composer Sam Guarnarccia. The Oratorio was a love song to the earth and to the emergent universe. It was extraordinary to pair orchestral and

Endless Spring Davis recently co-produced a choral and chamber music performance, the Emergent Universe Oratorio, a composition that described the creation of the universe and included the installation of twelve paintings Davis created for the set. The series’ title, Endless Spring, is Davis’s reference to one of the Buddhist terms for enlightenment or awakening.

CAMI DAVIS

CLAPPING FOR GAIA choral music, paintings, spoken word and birds cooing in the eaves as we sang out in the beautiful Breeding Barn at Shelburne Farms. Usually, when trying to tell the 13-billion year history of the creation of the universe, it involves loads of iconic images— humanity in relationship to time and space­—huge Hubble space photos contrasted with men and the world at war.

“But I just couldn’t paint galaxies and Hubbles; my primary relationship is with the earth. So I have to start where I stand and have intimate knowledge.

For example, in one the paintings for Endless Spring, “Tar Sands Tonglen,” I painted the background image of Tar Sands with white irises and petals—a symbol of the union of heaven and

earth. As I painted further, things that I didn’t plan on emerged, such as petals lifting off from green stems and becoming little white orbs that floated across the canvas. On another canvas, I painted a melting glacier in Alaska with forget-me-nots in the foreground—where my home [garden forget-me-nots] meets the edge of a melting Alaskan glacier—here the blue flower petals float away like tears. Many of the later paintings have snowdrops and drifting petals too—the snowdrop seems a perfect metaphor for emergence—the first spring flower to push up out of the cold edge and blanket of snow. The painting “Prayer for the Monarchs” is a more literal piece: we saw just a couple of monarchs in the yard this year, but when my children were in first grade, we’d see hundreds.”

Why Make Art? “Artistic expressions are one of the ways in which we digest information, experiences and find meaning in the world—like religion. We need the reflections of artists. But I think art does more than this—art can be pre-cognitive; it can anticipate and forward our understanding, as though it’s a tuning fork for culture.

Further, whether thinking about the role of art on a quantum physics level or in a sensory shamanic manner, I’ve wondered this: ‘if I take notice and appreciate the earth, does it amplify earth as Gaia?’ So, perhaps these artistic gestures of mine are a little bit like clapping for Tinkerbelle—come back! I believe.”

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fat biking On powder days, I ski. And the other days, I mountain bike

words and photos // Dale and Darcy Cahill Vermont is a winter wonderland of activities that make it possible to enjoy the outdoors no matter what the temperature. Between alpine and cross-country skiing, boarding, back-country skinning, ice fishing, snowmobiling, skate skiing, and snow shoeing, the sport of mountain biking has been slow to gain notice.

However, those days are over. With the emergence of more fat-tire bike options, you are as likely to see a mountain biker in the woods as you are a cross-country skier. World Cup DownHill Mountain Bike Racer Dylan Conte says the choice is obvious: “On powder days, I ski. And the other days, I mountain bike.”

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Back in the 1980s, a group of determined Alaskan mountain bike riders decided to make mountain biking a twelve-season sport. They welded three mountain bike rims together to allow for fatter tires. The result: a mountain bike that felt like it was floating, with tires that gripped the snow.

Since then, Surly’s principle designer, David Grey, has created a line of production-level fat bikes and has made them available to riders across the country. Bikers in Vermont have caught the Surly wave and many divide their play time between skiing, skinning and mountain biking.

Above: Ron Murray and Ryan Thibault discuss the merits of fat tires.

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Fat biking has experienced a meteoric rise from curious oddity to a real thing Surly’s “intergalactic mouth piece,” Eric Sovern, explains the winter biking phenomenon like this: “Fat biking has experienced a meteoric rise from curious oddity to a real thing.” He notes the fat biking communities in Wisconsin, who hold events every weekend of the winter.

He also points to the new line of fat bikes from companies like Trek, Giant, Specialized and Norco that are about to hit the market. Sovern is also seeing sales increase exponentially in New England, especially Vermont.

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Hank Glowiak has run Chuck’s Bikes in Morrisville, Vt. for over fifteen years.

When we asked him what he thought of winter biking on fat-tired bikes, he replied, “I love the @#!* out of it.” Glowiak has biked in the snow on skinny tires for years and is thrilled with the emergence of fat-tired bikes. He loves their wide knobby tires and the way they make a rider almost bounce across the snow.

Glowiak’s favorite ride is down Nose Dive at Stowe Mountain. He and his thrill-seeking buddies bike up the toll

road in the late afternoon, slip on their head lamps and careen down Nose Dive once the mountain is closed to skiers.

Three years ago, Mountain Bike Vermont owner Ryan Thibault and Kingdom Trails’ Operations Manager Lilias Ide held what has now become an annual Winter Mountain Bike event on the cross country trails at Burke Mountain. The event has grown to include a full day of group rides, fat bike demos, live music, six man snow-cross races and an ‘aid

station’ with donations from Vermont Peanut Butter, Cabot Cheese, Long Trail Beer and Green Mountain Spirits. There is nothing quite like a cold Long Trail and a shot of Maple Liquor after a long winter ride before noon.

Ide and Tim Tierney, executive director of Kingdom Trails, are planning on creating single-track, “snow bike” trails, packed and groomed specifically for mountain biking. They have posted “Winter Fat Bike Riding Etiquette” on their website to help all of their winter sports enthusiasts harmoniously share the trails.

Trapp Family Lodge has teamed up with Thibault for their second annual celebration of Winter Mountain biking in Febru-

ary. Sam Von Trapp, an avid cross-country skier, supports the event. As for the bikes, he says, “They’re great for getting around on the trails in practically any conditions, without doing damage. I love their low impact.” With miles of beautifully groomed cross-country and snowshoe trails at the Resort and a brewery for pre- and post-ride beer, holding the event is a no-brainer.

Winter riding is not limited to the mountains. Glenn Eames, owner of The Old Spokes Home, a bike shop in downtown Burlington, sees fat-tired bikes as a way to commute to work all year long. Last year, he hosted a winter bike event. This year, he is planning on organizing and hosting five or six.

Ide, like many of us, wasn’t sure about mountain biking in the winter. She was afraid it would be a hassle and interfere with alpine and cross-country skiing.

Once she gave it a try, all of her concerns melted away. “My seat and hands get a little cold, but I go out when it is below zero, and it is easier than I thought. It’s also a great workout.” The only thing that suffered was her back while country skinning, but the ease, benefits and fun of fat biking on packed snow makes the choice easier.

Thanks to fat biking, we now have another reason to get out and enjoy ourselves during Vermont’s winter season.

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DESTROYING APATHY ONE COMMUNITY EVENT AT A TIME words // Lettie Stratton photos // Craig Thomas If you’ve spent any amount of time in Burlington in the past year, you’ve heard of ArtsRiot—an events management company that specializes in art, food and music in the Queen City’s eclectic and quickly developing art hub in the South End of town.

But upon walking into the new Pine Street location, “events management” isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. This writer’s thoughts tended more toward an expression of jubilation at having discovered the coolest new hangout spot in town that, upon first glance, could satisfy a vast and unique array of needs and interests. Yoga? You got it. Great food?

Sure thing. Excellent people watching?

Guaranteed.

On one end of the room, Lycra-clad collegiates swing their hips in a hula hooping class. On

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another, a woman slurps noodles from a large ceramic bowl, hunched over her laptop and furrowing her brow at the screen. Lonely black leather couches and armchairs sulk in a corner, waiting for someone to set up camp in their cavernous interiors.

With high ceilings and concrete floors, a room that could easily feel stark and cold instead feels cozy and inviting. Tables full of eager diners of all ages dot the floor, illuminated by modern, hanging lights.

Artwork speckles the brick walls and a huge chalkboard displays the week’s menu items behind a high bar, framed by a window that seats a Buddha sculpture and various potted plants.

So what exactly is ArtsRiot?

“ArtsRiot is a business dedicated to destroying apathy,” says ArtsRiot cofounder Felix Wai. “We aim to provide connection, engagement, access and inspiration.” The outside of ArtsRiot’s building displays this slogan boldly— “destroy apathy” is painted on the brick exterior against a black backdrop in thick white letters.

Wai says ArtsRiot sees apathy—a lack of enthusiasm or interest; the feeling of indifference—as one of the largest problems that plagues today’s society.

“People feel disconnected,” Wai says, “and we’re all apathetic at some point.”

Coming to this realization, Wai and fellow co-founder PJ McHenry decided to curate a space to bring people together and get them excited about things like food, art and music. “Access is really big for us,” Wai says.

As we’re talking, Kat Wright of the Burlingtonfamous

(and quickly burgeoning) Kat Wright and the Indomitable Soul Band comes over to talk prep for her record release party to be held at ArtsRiot. Access, indeed.

It’s certainly a good sign to see one of Burlington’s most renowned musicians (you might’ve heard Wright and her band at Grace Potter’s Grand Point North Festival in September) walking around the community space. Wai said he’s particularly excited about ArtsRiot’s new partnership with Burlington’s Signal Kitchen, who will be curating the music lineup going forward.

and contributed to disaster relief efforts in New Orleans, while McHenry worked in event production and studied at Yestermorrow Design Build School in Warren, Vt. The pair took the usual nonprofit model they were both familiar with and spiced it up a bit to better suit the needs of the company they envisioned.

“People need to focus on creating change,” McHenry says.

since undergone a significant yet natural evolution. The company is now eventsfocused and draws people in partly through social media and their continued community-focused online presence.

Immediacy can be a danger with social media—it’s easy to substitute instant online

And change, they did. ArtsRiot began as a blog and has

Wai and McHenry both come from professional backgrounds of community organizing.

Wai taught

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interactions for real, personal relationships that take time to cultivate.

But by utilizing the system of social media in balance with the draw of a physical space, ArtsRiot is able to reach and influence a diverse crowd—both online and in person. “We’re fighting laziness,” Wai says of ArtsRiot’s methods and goals.

ArtsRiot’s space opened this year in early September, just in time for the one of the biggest art events of the year: the South End Art Hop. “We knew it would be a mistake to miss the Art Hop,” Wai says.

He and McHenry got the lease on the new space in March and have since been forging full force ahead to get everything ready and in place. “We’ve had a really solid showing so far,” Wai says.

Even though the move is still in progress, Wai and McHenry have somehow had time to brainstorm plenty of great events for the upcoming season.

Burlingtonians might

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already be familiar with the South End Truck Stop—a collection of food trucks, producers and musicians who gather on Pine Street each week to offer up their goods and services. And as it gets colder, ArtsRiot will feature more (indoor) food-related events, like the Brewers’ Dinner Series (where a local brewer showcases special libations paired with complementary food dishes), or Kitchen Takeovers (similar to pop-up restaurants, where local chefs and food producers come in and take over the kitchen for a period of time). Needless to say, the menu at the ArtsRiot kitchen will be always changing and evolving depending on who’s manning the stove.

Wai and McHenry said collaborating with other local businesses

has always been a goal. “We don’t know how to do everything,” McHenry says, adding that the spirit of collaboration is part of the essence of the area. “It’s how Burlington works,” he says. “The South End is a community space.”

The space is also available to rent out for private parties and events. To find out more about ArtsRiot, visit www.artsriot. com, send an email to info@artsriot.com or take a stroll down to 400 Pine Street in Burlington to see for yourself what the riot is all about.

VT Distilleries words and photos // Dale and Darcy Cahill

‘Still’

wondering what Vermont has to offer? How about fourteen awardwinning distilleries? Vodka, gin, rum, brandy, cream liquors and elderberry cordials are just some of what you can taste and buy on a tour of Vermont’s artisanal distilleries.

just over fourteen years ago, bottled it and named his new distillery “Vermont Spirits.” His Vermont Spirits Gold and Vermont Spirits White, distilled from milk sugars, gained national recognition and inspired him to expand his company.

Well before federal Prohibition began in 1852, Vermont banned alcohol. Re-legalized in 1933, it took decades for distillers to begin fermenting sugars again. Duncan Holaday is known to many as the grandpappy of Vermont’s craft distilleries, as he opened the first official distillery in Vermont and inspired others to follow.

He began distilling maple sap into vodka

These days, Holaday distills rum at his Dunc’s Mills Distillery. His use of local elderflowers and his own maple sap captures what many Vermont distillers work hard to achieve – using only Vermont-grown agricultural ingredients. Dunc’s Mill Maple Flavor Rum and Elderberry Flavor Rum are two spirits well worth the drive to St. Johnsbury for a tasting.

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Still at Caledonia Spirits.

SPIRITS

Award winning Vermont spirits made with raw honey.

Barr Hill Gin, Barr Hill Vodka & Elderberry Cordial

Retail Hours Mon-Sat 10 am-5 pm 46 Log Yard Dr. Hardwick Vt (802) 472-8000 www.CaledoniaSpirits.com 28

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Caledonia Spirits’ 2012 Double Gold Award-winning Bar Hill Gin.

Holaday also has a hand in Caledonia Spirits and Winery, located in Hardwick, Vt. Owner Todd Hardy hired Holaday to custom design their still, and Hardy shares Holaday’s commitment to using local ingredients. With thirty years of experience working with bees, one of Hardy’s favorite ingredients is honey. Their Barr Hill Gin is relatively new to the market but has already won the Double Gold Award at the 2012 New York International Spirits Competition. Made with corn, juniper berries and raw honey, Barr Hill Gin offers a smooth and not-sweet taste that we especially like, muddled with cucumber and mint leaves.

Fortunately for Vermont’s distilleries, new legislation allows on-site tasting rooms and sampling at farmers markets. That’s where Akash Parikh, owner of The Hearth & Candle restaurant at Smuggler’s Notch Resort, first tasted Barr Hill Gin. “It was delicious,” he says, “and the distillers were super nice, so I decided to make it The Hearth & Candle’s premium gin.” His customers love it.

In our own tour of Vermont’s distilleries, we found the distillers to be enormously informative, friendly and enthusiastic.

Shelburne Orchards owner Nick Cowles

admits that he has been distilling “forever,” as did his grandfather before him.

Four years ago, he bottled one hundred bottles of Dead Bird Brandy, his first run.

He sold out quickly, and Cowles’ held a party to celebrate. “We raised a ruckus!” he happily admits. He has decided to wait until the brandy has aged for eight years before bottling again, which means that we have to wait until 2017 to taste his Dead Bird Brandy.

Cowles’ 30-plus years of apple farming have given him plenty of time to grow his own collection of heirloom apple trees that give his brandy its unique taste.

Using France’s Calvados as inspiration, Cowles ages his brandy in bourbon barrels. He keeps a close eye on them.

Cowles respects the complex and timeconsuming task of creating a brandy for future generations. With everything he uses grown right there on the shores of Lake Champlain, Cowles believes that his brandy “represents the true spirit of Vermont.”

Just fifty miles north of Cowles on Elm Brook Farm in East Fairfield, David and Lisa Howe distill both their Literary Dog Vodka and Rail Dog, a barrel-aged maple spirit that David invented. Howe ex-

Howie and Tim of Green Mountain Distillers.

plains, “Every sugar has a spirit except for maple sap.” We were lucky enough to taste this newly-designated, 100-proof liquor, which lies someplace between a brandy and a whiskey. Outstanding!

Given maple’s status in Vermont, other distillers turn to it to flavor their liquors.

Boyden Farm’s craft-distilled cream liquors are sold across the United States, and Linda and David Boyden are the first distillers in the United States to specialize in these flavorful spirits. Both Vermont Ice Apple Crème and Vermont Ice Maple Crème is made with Vermontgrown apples, the latter with the maple

New flavors at Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits.

syrup David’s father, Larry, has been making for the past 40 years. Both are sweet and creamy.

Tim Danahy and Harold “Howie” Faircloth of Green Mountain Distillers met while brewing beer at The Shed in Stowe.

In 2002, they decided to turn their craftiness to making liquor. Their success with Green Mountain Organic Sunshine Vodka has led them to distill two other flavored vodkas, organic gin and, in 2007, a Maple Liquor.

The popularity of Green Mountain Distillers reflects increased interest in craft

distilleries across the country. In 2002, when Tim and Howie incorporated their business, they were the 61st distiller in the nation. There are now 350 craft distilleries across the country and, much like craft breweries, distillery tasting tours have become part of traveler’s vacation plans.

To see listings of all of Vermont’s craft distilleries, visit The Distilled Spirits Council of Vermont’s website: www.distilledvermont.org/index.html. You can pick up their map at each distillery, along with a distillery passport, and head out on your own tasting tour.

Shelburne Vineyard Open all year- 7 days a week

Visit www.shelburnevineyard.com 11am - 5pm Nov-April 11am 6pm May-Oct for concerts, art- shows and special events Visit www.shelburnevineyard.com for concerts, art shows and special events

64 Vermont Route 104, Cambridge VT (802) 644-8151 www.vermontice.com

6308 Shelburne Rd. (Rt. 7), Shelburne 802-985-8222

www.shelburnevineyard.com

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WATERBURY

Waterbury Train Station.

Waterbury’s key geographical location makes it one of the most scenic areas to visit in Vermont. Add in its surrounding mountains, historical interest and some well-known food manufacturers, and Waterbury becomes an enjoyable drive with an abundance of possibilities.

Waterbury can be found at Exit 10 on Route 89, approximately 30 minutes from the Burlington airport and 15 minutes from Montpelier. It is conveniently located near the Mad River Valley and Stowe ski areas.

Camel’s Hump and the Worcester Range are a visual enchantment throughout the town and offer some of the best hiking trails in the state.

Waterbury was granted a charter from King George III of England in 1763. Even before then, the area had been settled

by Native Americans, explorers and settlers who found an ample supply of water and timber. Waterbury’s early industries included lumber, baskets, children’s carriages, leather products, starch, alcohol and scythe handles. Agriculture was also a big business, and the early self-sufficient farms eventually became commercial agriculture. Economic growth and tourism began to thrive in 1849 with the arrival of the Central Vermont Railroad. In 1882, the Village of Waterbury was incorporated.

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In 1978, Waterbury Village was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Main Street is lined with grand, stately homes and contains an impressive collection of historically- and architecturally-distinctive structures, such as a classic Meeting House and the Village Green. Just off of Main Street is the restored 1875 Waterbury Train Station.

This is an enjoyable place to begin a tour of Waterbury Village, as the station now hosts the Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Visitor Center & Café. The Café displays a historical photo exhibit and a calendar of upcoming events – and friendly Vermonters on both sides of the counter!

Not far from this location is a full range of diverse shopping opportunities and award-winning restaurants. If the timing is right, there may even be a Farmers Market or a concert on the Village Green.

Travel north of the Village on Route 100 to find even more Vermont industries.

Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Ben & Jerry’s and Cabot Cheese are all a short drive from the Village.

On a tour of Ben & Jerry’s factory, learn how two childhood friends turned a correspondence course into a multimillion dollar industry. Their business model has made this ice cream manufacturer one of the most recognized

and admired companies in America.

The grounds surrounding the factory include a graveyard of discontinued ice cream flavors and various activities, such as making your own tie-dyed tshirt and sampling Vermont’s favorite dessert.

The Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a leading producer of apple cider and distributor of Vermont products. The Mill features a country store atmosphere with “localvore” products, serving warm, homemade cider donuts and apple cider for visitors to sample.

Although you cannot see the cheesemaking process at the Cabot Cheese Annex, you can taste the award-winning cheeses. The Cabot Cheese company is a cooperative of 1,200 dairy farm families located throughout upstate New York and New England. They manage four plants in three states and employ over 1,000 people. At the annex, you can meander through a world of cheese and dairy products … and, of course, free samples.

Waterbury is the quintessential Vermont town, complete with historic districts, architecture, shopping and restaurants.

PROHIBITION PIG words // David Scherr photos // Ben Sarle

At the intersection of Interstate 89 and Vermont’s Route 100, where traffic meandering along the spine of the Green Mountains crosses the purposeful speedsters on the highway, sits the quaint Vermont town of Waterbury. This modern crossroads hosts a growing number of top-notch places to eat and drink, among the best of which is an outpost of barbeque excellence known as Prohibition Pig. With meat as smoky as a North Carolina smokehouse, drinks as lovingly made as any at a cocktail bar, and a selection of beer fine enough to please the connoisseur, Prohibition Pig adds a welcome element to Vermont’s rapidly expanding culinary scene. Occupying a charmed site formerly inhabited by the Alchemist bar, now a famed brewery, Prohibition Pig is a must-stop destinatio n for anyone with the slightest inclination for high-quality southern barbeque and good beverages.

Prohibition Pig’s beer-aficionado bartender, Bart, pouring one of the countless local craft brews on tap at this Waterbury staple.

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To start a meal at Prohibition Pig, a visitor would be well-advised to whet their appetite with the Panko Fried Pimento Cheese starter.

These are basically cheese balls served with a chili pepper jam, but if the term “cheese ball” brings visions of a thick, goopy blob to your mind, banish them. These are shockingly delicate orbs of cheese with a slightly sweet coating. As you bite into it, the fried cheese seems to melt like cotton candy, leaving a wonderful combination of savory cheese, slightly spicy with the chili pepper jam, and a sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly.

If you aren’t looking for a huge meal, the Chick’n Biscuits small plate will leave a diner satisfied. Made with buttermilk biscuits and antibiotic- and hormone-free fried chicken, with some raw honey in the mix, these are small explosions of flavor in the form of chicken and bread. Their sweetness is pleasant without being overbearing and is nicely balanced by the savory flavor of the tender chicken.

Another excellent option is the Mac and Cheese dish, made with Vermont baby swiss, Cabot Clothbound, and sharp cheddars. With a crust that nicely complements the creamy cheese and noodles, this classic mac and cheese is made with the finest ingredients, clearly assembled

Local kale salad with toasted pumpkin seeds, parmesan, pickled cranberries, evoo and dressed with white balsamic vinegar and cider.

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Chick’n Biscuits and Craft Mac & Cheese.

lovingly in the kitchen and far better than any standard mac and cheese.

Prohibition Pig’s remarkable sauces complement any of these dishes. The Bacon Barbeque has medium heat and is lightly smoked, the Hot Sauce has a pleasant but not overwhelming heat with a lot of flavor, and the Pepper Vinegar brings a spicy kick to a standard vinegar sauce. The restaurant also offers a seven-generations-old Eastern North Carolina sauce, made from a vinegar base and perfectly flavored with a variety of spices and ingredients. A diner that doesn’t try these wonderful sauces will be missing out on the full Prohibition Pig experience.

A diner at Prohibition Pig would be remiss if they did not include a taste – or really, a full portion – of the sliced beef brisket in their meal. A 12-hour smoked brisket with Texas dry rub and bacon barbeque sauce, this beef puts most other smoked meats to shame. Unlike many such dishes, where the smoke flavor tastes merely rubbed on with sauce, the smoke flavor is deeply and deliciously embedded in the meat, bringing a rich and rugged flavor to every bite. This

Vermont Apple Crisp for two.

dish is, without contest, the best smoked brisket this reviewer has ever tried, and it is quite unlikely that a diner can find more richly smoked meat.

If a visitor has any room left for dessert after the riches of Prohibition Pig, the

Vermont Apple Crisp for two will not disappoint. Served in a hot pan with vanilla ice cream, oatmeal brown sugar crunch, sliced apple, boiled cider caramel and walnut brittle, this perfect balance of sweet and fruity tastes and smooth and crunchy textures is a perfect finish.

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“Strength does not come from winning.

Your struggles develop your strengths.

When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.� photo // Craig Thomas

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- Mahatma Gandhi

PUZZLES & STUFF CROSSWORD

THEME: POP CULTURE

DOODLES BY JAMES LASELL MORSE

The subject of art is always about something else.

Jim Morse has lived in Vermont since 1958 and resided in Charlotte since 1971. He has been married for 47 years and has two daughters and five grandchildren.

A Vermont Supreme Court justice for 14 years, Jim captures life’s Zen, irony and wit in observations and sketches on topics from art to war. His sayings are philosophical, skeptical, practical and funny.

SUDOKU

ACROSS

1. “The buck _____ here” 6. Augment 9. Like a jury unable to agree 13. Orca, e.g.

14. *Photographs in text messages 15. Wiser 16. Buddhist who has attained nirvana 17. Australian runner 18. Sign of life 19. *Movie host 21. *Like popular TV genre 23. Hot springs resort 24. Ski lift 25. Sensitive subject to some 28. Delhi wrap 30. Boredom 35. “____ Free” (1966) 37. *What a judge does on “Top Chef” 39. Straight muscles 40. Continental currency 41. Iron Age priest 43. Churn 44. Make more attractive 46. Major European river 47. “Fool me ____, shame on you” 48. Rodent and name of outdoor gear maker 50. Fungal spore sacs

52. Articulate 53. Coffin along with stand 55. Mozart’s “L’___ del Cairo” 57. *One Direction, e.g.

61. *Modern book 65. Architectural projection 66. Jelly-like stuff 68. *”Say Yes to the Dress” target 69. Calyx part 70. Emergency responder 71. Saint _____ of Rome 72. *American Idol’s Ryan Seacrest 73. Unidentified John 74. City in Belgium

15. Merciful one 20. Talked like a sheep 22. *”The Biggest Loser” isn’t supposed to do it a lot 24. Like a noble dignitary 25. At right angles to ship or plane 26. Known for its common red casing 27. Computer message 29. Like pink steak 31. Audition tape 32. *They’re on an iPhone screen 33. Carthage’s ancient neighbor 34. *From Disney to pop star 36. “Cheers” regular 38. *The Jonas bros 42. Interior designer’s focus 45. Cricket penalty DOWN 49. Sn, on periodic table 1. Go to and fro 51. First-aid item 2. Through, to a poet 54. Bordered 3. Pearl Harbor location 56. Frustration, in print 4. Surveyor’s maps 57. *One of Miami Heat’s “Big Three” 5. Arrangements 6. D’Artagnan’s weapon of choice 58. Filling treat 59. Pitiful puppy cries 7. *Kourtney and KhloÈ’s sister 60. *”Teen ____” mag (1967-2007) 8. Beyond suburbs 61. Besides 9. Drag 62. Have supper 10. Tangerine and grapefruit 63. Original garden? hybrid 64. R in RIP 11. Egg holder 67. Rock music style 12. *Multi-shaded Christian

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ON PAGE 9 WINTER // 2013-14 DESTINATION VT

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