OU NTA I N IMES Vol. 50, No. 12 M I’m FREE - you can even bring me home to your parents!T March 24-30, 2021 Countdown to vaccination All Vermonters are eligible by April 19 By Polly Mikula Governor has laid out a timeline for all remaining age bands to TAX DEADLINE MOVED sign up for Covid-19 vaccination. IRS and Based on the supply assurances extends their April 15 from the federal government, the state income tax deadline to says all Vermonters who want to be May 17. vaccinated can expect be fully immu- Page 11 nized by July 1. Additionally, high school students will be vaccinated this fall “by the time they go back to school,” Scott said, Tuesday. “Younger children [can ex- pect to be vaccinated] by the first part of the new year,” he said. Starting 8:15 a.m. on Thursday, March 25, Vermonters age 60 or older can register. Scott will be among those signing up on Thursday, he said at the press conference on Tuesday, March 23. On Monday, March 29, Vermonters By Brooke Geery By Brooke Geery age 50 or older become eligible and ev- The Holiday Inn in Rutland Town is the site of Pre-K cruisin' ery Monday thereafter another 10-year RRMC's Covid-19 vaccination clinic. Rutland County 3-year-old Harley Ruffle finds his line through the Killington age bracket will qualify. has vaccinated 37.4%, or 18,434 of its residents as of Peace Park Down. He loves cruising this banked turn. Vaccines > 14 Tuesday, March 23 — the highest rate in the state.

By Devon Gulick Base Camp Outfitters is sold

KMS STUDENT, Mike and Diane Miller reflect on 32 years in business ALUMNI, COACHES By Polly Mikula ARE IN THE SPOTLIGHT Despite spending 32 years specializing in Tele- said Thursday morning, watching Colona greet credit, I didn’t say anything, but internally I was Learning, excelling the mark, Nordic and Alpine touring (AT), Mike Miller, patrons at the door. “I mean we’ve been massaging rolling my eyes.” fun way — on snow. said the sale of Base Camp Outfitters last week all our 50 acres for 20 years, getting it ready for devel- Miller, with help from Mosher Excavating, built Page 3 & 26 came down to mountain biking. opment or the next plan,” he added. “All the Nordic 7 miles of trails in seven days, which “made the “It was kind of funny and ironic, the way it all trails that we put in are really like carriage roads, whole bike community turn on its head, ‘cause worked out,” Miller said. so they could be always developed. The snowshoe they were spending $60,000 per mile and we built The shop at the corner of Route 4 and Kil- trails can easily be flipped to bike trails. So we’ve them for $1,000 per mile,” Miller said, adding, “I lington Road closed Tuesday, March 16 and always been kind of doing it, but we never really mean, I was trying to prove a point.” reopened on Thursday, March 18 under new knew what would come of it all." “When Diane was getting upset and rolling ownership. Previous owners Mike and Diane Two summers ago, Miller decided to build a her eyes, I mentioned to her that this is going to Miller (Feel Heel LLC) turned the shop over to new mountain bike trail network behind the shop. be the future,” Miller said. “Killington is explod- local bike enthusiasts Phil Black and Ben Colona “He was really out there, you know, helping ing, we have over 100 miles of amazing mountain (Free Hub LLC). the excavator all day every day,” Diane Miller bike trails — the community is going to buy into “But we couldn’t be more thrilled,” Mike Miller said. “And I’m, like, ‘what is he doing?’ But to my Sold > 6

FEEDERS ATTRACT BEARS IN VERMONT VTF&W asks Vermonters to put away bird feeders by April 1 to avoid attracting bears. Page 31 Living ADE ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT Need to get out? Need a change? Check out these in-person and virtual activities. Courtesy of Daniel Buzan Photography Page 24 Base Camp Outfitters at the intersection of Route 4 and Killington Road in the town of Killington will become a ski and mountain bike ubh under new ownership. 2 • LOCAL NEWS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Rutland man injured Rutland Aldermen welcome new members By Brett Yates after being run over by On March 15, Rutland City Mayor Cisco, and Franco, a project analyst for finishing 10th in the vote tally, as Re- David Allaire swore in four new the Virginia Department of Education, publicans DePoy and Gillam retained his own vehicle members of the Board of Aldermen: both work remotely while living in theirs. (Rutland’s municipal elections On Thursday, March 18, at 6:14 a.m. state troopers from Mike Doenges, Thomas Franco, Devon Rutland. Neary works for the Rutland are officially nonpartisan, with ballots the Rutland Barracks were notified of a single vehicle crash Neary, and Carrie Savage. Two returning Regional Planning Commission as a that don’t list party affiliations.) with injury at the intersection of Route 7 and East Pittsford aldermen, Tom DePoy and Bill Gillam, transportation planner, and Savage The reconstituted board, at its Road in Rutland Town. also took the oath of office. DePoy, the manages alumni relations for Castle- first meeting, signed off on the city’s Through investigation it was determined Brian Tarmy, owner of a commercial cleaning com- ton State University. accounting, auditing, and financial 50, of Rutland Town was driving a 2011 GMC Terrain and pany, now begins his eighth consecu- At first glance, the March 2 election reporting policy as presented by Trea- came to a stop on East Pittsford Road. Tarmy put the SUV in tive term. Gillam, a retired restaurateur appears to have preserved the board’s surer Mary Markowski; authorized park and exited it to check the rear seat. The SUV then began who rejoined the Board of Aldermen in preexisting political makeup. Depart- the Rutland Humane Society’s annual rolling into Route 7. Tarmy tried to stop it but was struck by 2018 as a mayoral appointee, previously ing alderwomen Melinda Humphrey coin drop on Merchants Row; and the rear door, which resulted in his falling and the rear tire served from 1992 to 2008. and Lisa Ryan, who declined to seek tasked the Public Safety Committee running over his left leg. Under the banner “Rutland For- reelection, hosted a virtual forum to with figuring out what to do about the The unoccupied vehicle continued to roll across Route 7 ward,” the board’s four newcomers, promote the Rutland Forward candi- city’s broken-down fire truck. where it went down an embankment, striking several trees each a first-time candidate, cam- dates in February. Chris Ettori, who It also voted in favor of the charter and a large rock. Tarmy's car sustained moderate damage to paigned in concert this winter as a pro- left the board to mount an unsuccess- and ordinance committee’s revi- the left fender and front bumper. gressive slate that comprised six of the ful mayoral challenge, tended to side sion to the city’s long-discussed sign State police were assisted on scene by the Rutland Town 17 Rutlanders in the race. The group with Humphrey and Ryan when the ordinance, which grants additional Fire Department, Regional Ambulance Service, Howe Cen- pledged to “work together to build an board weighed in on culturally divisive leeway for alterations to grandfathered ter Auto, and Carrara’s Towing. inclusive, welcoming community with issues, such as the question of Rutland signs, and approved a public warning an economy that works for everyone.” High School’s mascot. notice in the newspaper that will start Doenges, a salesman for the Meanwhile, Rebecca Mattis, a the 20-day countdown to the law’s Dept. of Public Service seeks California-based technology firm Democrat, lost her seat on the board, implementation. preliminary input on 10-year telecommunications plan The Vermont Dept. of Public Service announced two pre- Scott calls on U.S. State Department draft public hearings on the 10-year telecommunications plan. The plan will provide an overview of statewide growth and development as it relates to future requirements for telecom- to send more refugees to Vermont munications services, including patterns of urban expan- sion, statewide and service area economic growth, shifts in Will Rutland again be designated as a resettlement site? transportation modes, economic development, technological By Kit Norton/VTDigger advances, and other trends and factors that will significantly Gov. Phil Scott is calling on the federal government to re- demic, welcoming more will help us build a stronger and more affect state telecommunications policy and programs. settle more refugees in Vermont, describing it as integral to his inclusive Vermont.” The plan will cover a broad range of telecommunications plans to grow the state’s economy and workforce. In a statement Thursday, U.S. Sen. , D-Vt., services, including voice telephony, broadband, mobile- Scott wrote to the U.S. Dept. of State on Monday, March 15, commended the governor’s initiative. wireless services, and enhanced services. Members of the urging the federal government to triple the number of refugees “Providing refuge to the persecuted and the oppressed is public are encouraged to raise issues and ideas for inclusion in it hopes to send Vermont next year. This federal fiscal year, neither a Democratic or a Republican value — it’s part of our the plan. The department will issue a public comments draft in which ends in September, the state was slated to receive 100 shared history and Vermonters have always done their part, mid-May and a final plan on June 30. Public comments will be refugees, though it’s not currently on pace to reach that goal. and more,” Leahy said. “Just as Vermonters have welcomed accepted on the plan throughout the process up until June 30. The Republican governor wrote those seeking safety, refugees have Meeting links and call in information available at: publicser- that he views refugee resettlement "I feel strongly that Vermont enriched communities across our vice.vermont.gov/content/10-year-telecommunications-plan. as essential to addressing the state’s state, both economically and cultur- Consumers can provide input in writing by responding demographic challenges. “Refugees needs more diversity and ally.” to this brief survey. are an integral part of our efforts to we need to do our part to U.S. Rep. , D-Vt., also grow Vermont’s economy, which expressed support, adding that he include a workforce development welcome those from war-torn had met Thursday morning with the LOCAL PEOPLE. strategy to attract new workers and Refugee and Immigration Service meet the demographic challenges countries and bring them Provider Network to discuss its work LOCAL SERVICE. faced by a declining population,” into Vermont as new citizens, to support new Americans in the Scott wrote. state. Home Comfort – All season long! Since the establishment of the new Americans ... I just think “Vermont is ready to welcome federal refugee resettlement pro- more refugees to our cities and gram four decades ago, more than we have a moral obligation towns as new neighbors, coworkers 8,000 participants have moved to to welcome them and make and friends,” Welch said. “Thank BEAT THE HEAT! Vermont, according to the governor. you to Gov. Scott for making it clear Get on the schedule for an air conditioning The resettlement rate, however, has them part of Vermont. We that refugees are a vital part of our or Mini Split AC Unit Installation. slowed in recent years. certainly could use the help, communities.” Of the 100 refugees the state had The third member of Vermont’s hoped to welcome by the end of too," Scott said. congressional delegation, Sen. Ber- % % September, only 26 have arrived so nie Sanders, I-Vt., did not respond to 0 Down - 0 Interest far. Scott said in his letter that Vermont has the ability to accom- a request for comment. For up to 36 months modate many more. Under former President Donald Trump, Vermont saw a The State Department did not immediately respond to a marked decrease in refugee resettlement. During the 2018 request for comment. federal fiscal year, Vermont received more than 133 refugees — Jason Maulucci, Scott’s press secretary, said in a statement down from 235 a year earlier. Thursday that expanding Vermont’s refugee program could As governor, Scott has for several years supported strength- benefit the state in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. ening the state’s refugee resettlement program, championing it “Governor Scott is committed to making Vermont a more during his 2018 reelection bid as a tool to turn around Ver- Call us now at 866-326-0535 welcoming place and growing our workforce,” Maulucci said. mont’s struggling rural economy and aging population. Earlier “The refugee program has already enhanced our communities in his political career, though, Scott raised security concerns in many ways, and as we rebuild and recover from the pan- Refugees > 21 The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LOCAL NEWS • 3

Courtesy of Hannah Soar and FIS (Federation International Ski) Soar (left) poses with her U.S. teammates at the Freestyle International FIS Ski World Cup in February .

Courtesy of Hannah Soar and FIS (Federation International Ski) Hannah Soar (KMS alumni) ended her season with the U.S. Mogul Team finishing third best in the world. U.S. Moguls Team with former KMS coach, athletes named best in the world By Katy Savage Hannah Soar got to Boston from a red The family skied regularly, but had a rule. Team in 2019. season in Kazakhstan, Soar and team- eye flight out of Kazakhstan at 5:30 a.m. “The rule was, if it wasn’t fun we were Gnoza said Soar is a unique athlete. mates Kai Owens and Tess Johnson swept Saturday, March 20 after being named the done for the day,” T.J. said. “She doesn’t stop,” Gnoza said. “There the dual moguls World Cup competition third best mogul skier in the world at the Soar grew up skiing behind the best are not many athletes you worry about for the first time ever at the Feb. 5 event at FIS Freestyle World Ski Championships. mogul skiers in Killington, like Randy overworking but with Hannah, sometimes Deer Valley Resort. The team’s Nation’s Soar was home in Killington by 10 a.m. At Grasso — member of the U.S. Freestyle that thought crosses your mind.” Cup win at the end had been a goal of noon, she was skiing. Team in the late 1970s. While the skiers are usually done with Gnoza’s since he became head coach. “It’s just such a nice day out, how can “We’re like a giant family — all the daily training around noon, Soar heads Gnoza was looking forward to jumping you not?” said Soar, as the temperature mogul skiers,” Grasso said. “Everyone back to the slopes after lunch. Gnoza said off the success of this year next year. was sunny and near 60. “I was dream- watched Hannah as a child and took turns she’s always looking for more training “Hopefully we’ll see some Killington ing of it ever since we’ve been stuck in babysitting her while her parents skied. opportunities and more skiing — a drive athletes on top of the podium at the Olym- Kazakhstan.” Everyone who baby sat her was a mogul Soar’s had since she was a student at KMS. pics,” Gnoza said. A week earlier, the U.S. Mogul Team skier. She didn’t know anything different.” Gnoza said Soar skied an hour later than Soar said she’s already thinking of Olym- took home first place at the Nations Cup Grasso remembers Soar following the everyone else at KMS. pics training, but spring days at Killington, for the first time since 2013, beating Japan adults down Outer Limits — the longest, “Most kids would run right in and where all the best mogul skiers in the area by nearly 300 points on March 14 in Al- steepest mogul trail in the East— as a toddler. take their boots off at 3 p.m,” Gnoza said. gather at Outer Limits to try to get better, are maty, Kazakhstan. Soar ended her season “It was amazing, this little tiny thing. “[Hannah] had her pack of people, she’d what Soar looks forward to most. with the U.S. Mogul Team finishing third Now you watch her, she’s the star of the drag those guys back out and ski until 4 Within hours of being home, Soar texted best in the world, behind Perrine Laffont hill,” Grasso said. p. m .” Gnoza a photo of her skiing on Bear Moun- of France and Anri Kawamura of Japan. Last year Soar and Grasso had a bet One of those guys was Alex Lewis, who tain in Killington. It didn’t surprise Gnoza. Now, the 21-year-old Killington Moun- to see if Grasso could keep up with her. made the U.S. Moguls Team a few years “That is her happy place,’” Gnoza said. tain School graduate is one of the front- Grasso gave Soar one dollar, passing the after Soar made the team in 2016. “That seems to keep her motivated.” runners to compete in the 2022 Olympics, torch on to the fastest mogul skier in Kil- “She never gets tired, she loves skiing,” Grasso, her longtime friend, under- but she said days like Saturday, where lington. Lewis said. “It’s fun to see each other prog- stood. the sun is warm and the moguls are soft, “The pride I have for her is beyond ress as we get better.” “You can never really master it,” Grasso motivates her for the grueling competition words,” Grasso said. Soar admits it was a difficult year. The said of mogul skiing. “No matter how good schedule. The local passion for skiing is part team was unable to compete in several you get, you’re always adjusting and learn- “I’m a skier before I’m a competitor,” of Soar’s success, but she’s not the only events due to travel restrictions. The team ing — that’s what’s so cool about it.” she said. person who has benefited from the strong skipped Asia and Japan and couldn’t go Grasso was looking forward to seeing Her father T.J. calls Soar’s passion for community of skiers in Killington. Her to Canada. The team also had Covid tests Soar improve. the sport her “secret weapon.” coach Matt Gnoza was at Killington Moun- every other day. Some U.S. athletes ended “I think she’s the perfect person for the Soar started skiing between her father’s tain School for 20 years before he accepted the season stuck in Kazakhstan, unable to Olympics, she has the personality,” Grasso legs at 18 months old. By 2 1/2, she was the head coaching position for the U.S. Ski fly due to positive Covid tests. said. “She’s just so caring and thoughtful. skiing on a leash and by 3 1/2 she was skiing Team in 2014, while Soar’s friend and KMS Despite the challenges, there were also To me, that’s what I want representing my Killington’s hardest trails. graduate Alex Lewis made the U.S. Mogul’s a lot of accolades. Just before ending the country.” 4 • LOCAL NEWS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Local restaurant owners look back on a challenging year By Victoria Gaither A year after Gov. Phil Scott ordered well as the Bomoseen Lodge and Tap- have been,” she said. that successful restaurants also took to restaurants and bars to close due to the room in Castleton, is busy preparing for Baraiolo is currently planning the social media to attract customers and offer coronavirus, March 16, 2020, two restau- outdoor dining come April 1. KPAA’s annual wine festival weekend with discounts. rant owners in Killington and one in Rut- He talked about how he took a risk last the Killington Wine Trail this summer. Social media isn’t Donald Billings' thing. land looked back on a year of challenges, April in renting a tent from a local com- Unexpectedly, Moore and Harron at “I know nothing about that,” he laughed, changes, and Covid-19 precautions. pany for outdoors dining. “We were busy,” Hops on the Hill actually like the 50% oc- but his Instagram page tells a different “It was a challenging year, last year Billings said, calling the experiment a cupancy rule. “We don’t think we will go story. Weekly dinner deals pop up across being our first year open and then being success. back to having more people in the restau- his feed, @rootsrutland. shut down last spring due to covid,” Tom Always thinking outside the box, Bill- rant really; this is working out very well for The same goes for Hops on the Hill: Moore, co-owner of Hops on the Hill in ings added live music, too. “We never did us,” Moore smiled. their Instagram page is active and encour- Killington, said. Moore said he and co- live music, so we had live music twice a According to Upserve, a company that ages people to come in for merchandise, owner Buddy Herron’s first priority was week last summer, and it was packed.” provides restaurant managerial services, food, and specials. clear. “We wanted to keep our employees Not only were guests top priority, so during the pandemic 69% of America’s All three men are grateful to make it employed, so we focused on take-out; were his workers. “I had to keep people restaurants updated and pared down through a challenging season. They aren’t that did well for us.” working,” he said. menus for online ordering. Upserve added looking back, rather, forward. Once indoor dining resumed at a limited ca- “Most restaurants carefully pacity, the two men then focused on giving guests restructured staff patterns, the best experience. concentrated on take-out, and took “People can get food anywhere, but we want advantage of the Paycheck Protection guests to have a true Ver- Plan,” Jepson said. mont food experience,” Moore said. Both Moore and Herron are firm believ- This sentiment didn’t go unnoticed, ers in doing business with locals. “We said Camille Welch, who works at The Bak- source our food and beer from Vermont ery. “The general thought about Donald is and local suppliers,” Herron said. For he is truly concerned about his employees example, the doughnut holes used in the and wellbeing.” popular Maple Breakfast stout drink come He is also a big supporter of arts and from Jones’ Donuts and Bakery in Rutland. community projects, so he employed art- It’s the Vermont craft beer that keeps ists to paint murals inside the restaurant. Jeff Brown and Chris Lajaunie coming At the same time, guests dined and ex- back to Hops on the Hill. Both men were perienced live art while social distancing visiting from Massachusetts to ski at and wearing face masks. He also changed Killington. “They have the best wings,” his menu to adapt it for take-out and push Lanaunie said of Hops. forward to creating new opportunities. Although Brown initially wasn’t too sure Executive Director of the Chamber of about dining out, his mind was changed Commerce & Economic Development of when he saw the policies and precautions the Rutland Region (CEDRR) Lyle Jepson put in place. “They took all the precau- said he was impressed to see the entrepre- tions, social distancing, tables spread out,” neurial spirit at work. he said, which made all the difference in “Most restaurants carefully restructured him feeling safe and comfortable. staff patterns, concentrated on take-out, In downtown Rutland, it’s all about and took advantage of the Paycheck Pro- the guests and employees for restaurant tection Plan,” he said. owner Donald Billings. President of the Killington Pico Area Billings, who owns Roots the Res- Association Vicki Baraiolo agreed. “We taurant and The Bakery in Rutland and believe businesses have found it difficult, Mountain Merchant/Cru in Killington as but we’re proud of how resilient many

By Victoria Gaither Top: Hops on the Hill co-owners Buddy Herron (left) and Tom Moore (right) prepare food and drinks for patrons that dine in and take out at their restaurant located in the Mountain Green complex on East Mountain Road in Killington.

Far left: Doughnuts from Jones' Do- nuts in Rutland rest atop the popular Maple Breakfast stout served at Hops on the Hill in Killington.

Left: Lyle Jepson (left) and Donald Billings (right) chat about business during the pandemic at Roots the Restaurant in Rutland. Billings got creative last spring using tents to provide comfortable outdoor dining starting in April. He added live music too. His creativity proved successful. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LOCAL NEWS • 5 Castleton community braces for

change as merger transition begins Woodstock Area Jewish Community By Emma Cotton, VTDigger Congregation Shir Shalom CASTLETON — In Rutland County, Wolk and Weld aren’t the only crit- opened a pizza restaurant adjacent to a plan to merge Castleton University ics of a name change. Several organi- campus, which has become a popular A Virtual Community Seder with two other institutions in the state zations hope to keep the name, colors late-night spot for students. Led by Rabbi Ilene Haigh college system has people worried and logo of Castleton University, Breting said he’s worried about Saturday, Prepare a seder meal in your home and join together by ZOOM March 27, 2021 to celebrate this joyous holiday of freedom. We will break about losing the identity of the school, including the Chamber & Economic the future of the college, given the matzah, explore the four questions, read from the Haggadah, which provides an economic boost to Development of the Rutland Region name change and other cuts that are 6 p.m. sing, bless the wine and other symbols of the Exodus from the area. (CEDRR) and the Castleton Bridge taking place. In Rutland County, two Locals have continued to express Initiative, which connects the college other institutions — Green Mountain For information:Egypt and share this beloved tradition-filled meal. ZOOM and phone instructions, visitshirshalomvt.org or call 802-457-4840 disapproval of the plan trustees of to full-time residents of Castleton. College and the College of St. Joseph the Vermont State Colleges System “It’s one of the anchor businesses — folded in 2019 largely because of All are welcome. voted unanimously to approve, Feb. 22. that help sustain our entire region,” declining enrollment. Watching them The several-year plan is to consolidate said Lyle Jepson, executive director has increased his concern. Castleton University, Northern Vermont of CEDRR. “We feel strongly at this “Being a business owner in a col- University and Vermont Technical point that maintaining the brand is lege town, it’s a scary time because col- College into a single university with a essential, that when one business buys leges are closing,” Breting said. “Green common accreditation. another successful business — which Mountain College, five miles down Table of contents Trustees and the state colleges chan- Castleton University is — you don’t the road, I know the business owners cellor’s office are using the placeholder change its name.” in that town. I can imagine what that’s name “Vermont State Univer- done to their bottom line.” Local news ...... 2 sity” to describe the new insti- "Tt will take many years and tons of Castleton University’s State news ...... 12 tution, though they emphasize interim president, Jonathan that the name isn’t final. money to create and build the name Spiro, said he understands News briefs ...... 16 As news of the merger recognition that Castleton University why the change has un- Opinion ...... 16 spread, some close to the settled the community, university have been express- enjoys," said Molnar. but Castleton isn’t going Calendar...... 22 ing concerns about the plan’s anywhere. Living ADE ...... 24 details, and many have zoomed in on Martha Molnar, who leads the “It’s really important for everyone Puzzles ...... 33 the potential name change. Castleton Bridge Initiative, said the to understand that Castleton is always The university, formerly called university’s rebranding efforts have going to be here, that Castleton is Food matters ...... 34 Castleton State College, embarked on a been effective in attracting out-of- going to thrive in the future, that our Pets ...... 38 costly transition to change its name in state students, whose higher tuitions future is bright,” he said. 2015. In a recent letter to the commu- subsidize those of in-state students, The name change would not be Horoscopes ...... 39 nity, former university president Dave and she worries that those efforts will the school’s first. Castleton Univer- Columns ...... 40 Wolk and former dean of advancement be squashed if the university takes on a sity traces its history to 1787, to the Jeff Weld credited the name change new name. Rutland County Grammar School, Service directory...... 42 and a related marketing campaign for “We are afraid that many of the which prepared young men for col- Classifieds ...... 44 increased enrollment and an expansion students from out of state who would lege. The school changed its name of extracurricular programs. come here may not come to a uni- frequently in the 1800s, as it admitted Real estate ...... 45 “Many other Castleton, Rutland versity that really doesn’t mean very women and expanded its mission. Its and southern Vermont individuals, much to anyone,” she said. “And it will names included Castleton Academy, businesses, alumni and other groups take many years and tons of money to Castleton Academy and Female Semi- weighed in on the merger, and the create and build the name recognition nary, Vermont Classical High School, feared future impact on Castleton that Castleton University enjoys.” and Castleton Seminary, according MOU NTA I N TIMES University, but the decision was made They point to Andrew Breting as a to the book “Big Heart: The Journey is a community newspaper covering Central by the Vermont State Colleges board prime example. Breting came from to Castleton’s Two Hundred and Vermont that aims to engage and inform as well as and we are not arguing the wisdom of Rhode Island to attend Castleton, Twenty-fifth Birthday,” by Tony Peffer, empower community members to have a voice. the merger decision here,” the letter where he played football and stud- published in 2012. reads. “However, the seemingly hap- ied sociology, criminal justice and The latest proposed name, Vermont hazard renaming of these institutions women’s and gender studies. A few State University, was proposed first by Polly Lynn Mikula ...... Editor & Co-Publisher deserves more thought and scrutiny.” years after graduating in 2016, he the staff and faculty union, though it Jason Mikula ...... Marketing/Advertising Manager opposes other details of the merger. & Co-Publisher Linda Olson, vice president of Brooke Geery ...... Assistant Editor, Business Manager higher education for the American Fed- Lindsey Rogers ...... Marketing/Advertising Consultant eration of Teachers-Vermont, which Millie Bache ...... Marketing/Advertising Consultant represents faculty and staff in the state Krista Johnston ...... Head Graphic Designer college system, said she isn’t worried about changing the college’s name. “The ‘Vermont State University’ Katy Savage Mary Ellen Shaw Ed Larson is something we do believe should Julia Purdy Paul Holmes Sandra Dee Owens happen,” she said, “but we also stress Curt Peterson Merisa Sherman Brett Yates that we think it’s important that each Gary Salmon Dave Hoffenberg Kevin Theissen individual campus maintain their own Dom Cioffi Virginia Dean Robin Alberti identities and their own brands.” Flag photo by Richard Podlesney She imagines a system in which the university retains the “Castleton” ©The Mountain Times 2021 part of its name, but under the broader The Mountain Times • P.O. Box 183 umbrella of “VSU.” Killington, VT 05751 • (802) 422-2399 “I don’t think it’s an either-or situ- Email: [email protected] ation — we either stay completely Wikimedia commons, Courtesy of VT Digger separate, or we become one system mountaintimes.info Woodruff Hall at Castleton University Castleton > 12 6 • LOCAL NEWS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

Sold: Mike and Diane Miller have sold Base Camp Outfitters in Killington to the Killington Mountain Bike Club president and vice president, Ben Colona and Phil Black from page 1 this, it’s going to be driven by mountain biking. And ulti- Killington, too,” he said. mately that’s what happened.” “And we had the Telemark ski school at Northeast Pas- But trails at Base Camp weren’t built on spec for sale only. sage,” Diane Miller added. “Selfishly, this is our playground,” Mike said of the trail Mike Miller also patented a Telemark bindings “that revo- network, which has also welcomed Nordic skiers, snowsho- lutionized the whole sport of Nordic and Telemark,” he said. ers and fatbikers before expanding to mountain biking. In an April 7, 1994, story in the Mountain Times, Marcia “Everything we do is right here. Our friends come to see us! Stoller wrote: “In early October, 1993, Miller began experi- So, in one sense, we also didn’t really look that far ahead, we menting with existing binding designs… He had found a way were just building our own little playground with fun trails.” to modify the existing binding designs, in a manner that he is Why sell now? convinced will revolutionize Telemark skiing. His new system “It began when we witnessed what happened to Bill’s of binding replaces the 75mm or 3 pin bindings,” she wrote. Country store,” Miller said. “The Radakers were great neigh- “What I’ve done is to change the flexor piece of the bind- bors, they had an offer for a million dollars and they were ing,” Miller said in that article. He changed the soft rubber like ‘no, no, no, we don’t want to go yet’ and then once they flexor to a solid urethane one and also added a cable to the decided to, it became a fire sale.” backcountry binding system that allowed for “downward Bill’s Country Store sold at auction for $355,000 in Sep- pressure” in addition to the existing forward pressure for tember of 2012. more power and control, Stoller explained. “After that, we said, you know what, we should really “I designed the Telemark binding back when I was rac- think about our exit strategy. We’re not a rush, but let’s ing," Miller said last week, recalling the details of his design. start thinking about it, ... and a lot of financial people were "What we did was patent the forces — we changed the forces saying the same thing: if you wait ‘til the end when you of how our bindings were working. Then we met with Rot- have to sell it’s going to be bad.” tefella, who now actually owns the patent, they purchased The decision was also personal. “Diane really bought into it, and they changed all their lines. It’s called 'Active,' 100% more than she signed up for,” Miller said. “She became a re- of the bindings on the market right now are Active,” he said, ally good person on the sales floor, so now her day was office confirming his hunch from 1993 that the technology would work, coming down to the sales floor to say hi to people plus revolutionize the sport. running Cabin Fever, so she had a lot on her plate.” In 1995, after a change in ownership at Mountain Mead- The sale ows, and a generous offer to buy 33 acres of land for $1,000 In the beginning it was kind of a “soft sale,” he continued. per acre, the Millers decided to build their own shop on “And there wasn’t much interest.” Thundering Brook Road. It would soon become the base But in the past six months the Millers entertained three lodge for their expanding cross country ski resort. other strong offers from prospective buyers. Ultimately, Phil “We turned that into a worldclass Nordic center," Miller Black (owner of The Lookout Tavern in Killington) and Ben said. "We had the U.S. ski team, Middlebury, Dartmouth Colona (president of the Killington Mountain Bike Club and all train there, and we started the sprint tour series,” he said manager of Killington Sports and Bike shop) proposed the (see story on page 7). winning offer. Miller's focus on snowmaking along the trails made “What was great about working with Phil and Ben was Mountain Meadows Cross Country Nordic center particularly that we got creative,” Miller said. “We didn’t know how to unique and allowed him to host events other resorts couldn’t. sell it either. At first we were like, it’s $1.3 million, have fun,” “The first iteration was a big pile of snow with one gun, he added. “But then we got to thinking… it was really Diane then Mike moving it with a manure spreader,” Diane Miller who deserves credit. We went home one day after work and Courtesy of Mike Miller remembered. “He was a force to be reckoned with,” she said. she said, ‘what do they really need?’ … That’s when we un- Top: Diane and Mike Miller pose for a photo at the Telemark “We even put in lights, so there was night skiing for a year, derstood: they only needed a building and a little bit of land. Shop when Mountain Meadows first opened in 1988. but really no interest in that,” she added. That’s when the deal really started happening,” he said. Below: Diane and Mike enjoy a cross-country ski on the While the Telemark Shop was successful, the Miller’s “Two of the other entities couldn’t get over the price tag Mountain Meadow's trails in the mid-90s. knew it was limited by its location. and wouldn’t sit down at the table to talk, and the third one “We were like, I mean not even McDonald’s is gonna be was a company out of Germany — they were probably going Camp Bike & Ski," according to Secretary of State filings. able to do business if it’s on a back road! We’re not going to to pay us our asking price, which would have actually been “I think it’s a really good deal for them, it’s a really good get anywhere if we don’t get up front,” Mike Miller said. the worst deal for us as we would have had to be out of here deal for us,” Diane Miller said of Colona and Black taking the When the current property on Route 4 came up for sale, completely and it would not have been so good for the reigns. “I am so happy for them. I see two young guys with all the Millers decided to buy. It adjoined the land they already community,” Miller said, adding that the German company this energy, like where we were — I mean it’s not like we’re out owned. “We actually already had an agreement with Bernie wasn’t planning anything bike-related. of energy it’s just hard to put new ideas in place when you’re Rome to buy the land before he went bankrupt,” said Mike In contrast, the Killington Mountain Bike Club (KMBC) thinking of an exit strategy." Miller. “Then it went to auction and we actually saved money.” Bike Bum Race Series was held on the Base Camp trails last How it all began, 32 years ago “At that time, only Bill’s Country Store was around,” Miller summer, so Miller and Colona got to talk extensively. The Millers got married and started a business in the recounted. “Killington Sports hadn’t been built yet… We “I was sitting out there every Wednesday just having beers same year: 1988. were told we could never build on the land, but I’m not re- with Ben, ‘cause he had to do the timing shack and you could “I was running Aspen East for Lee [Quaglia],” Miller said. ally good at being told never to do something,” he said. see the wheels turning,” Miller said. “I started the Telemark side of Aspen East, which I always Sold, cont. > 7 “This is where the partnership really worked out because give Lee credit for allowing me to do ‘cause it was my little we all agreed [the trails] are all to be protected,” Miller said. baby, but it was his money. It was that year I was selling just That's what the community wants, too, he added. In fact, as much tele gear as we were Alpine gear… I was also builder “When we were out skiing yesterday a guy came up to me and I had just sold one of my spec houses, so I had all this and said, ‘congratulations, what’s happening with the bike money burning a hole in my pocket. So I looked at Lee and trails?’ When I told him the bike trails were all going to be said, I’m going to try it on my own," Mike remembered. protected, he was so relieved. So at the end of the day, it all The next year, Mike Miller started The Telemark Shop at comes back down to bike trails. And that's what's best for the Mountain Meadows. whole community,” he said. “I wasn’t involved in the business at all, except for the kids’ In the end, the Millers agreed to sell the Base Camp Out- programs,” said Diane Miller, who had been a physical thera- fitters business, the building, the parking lot and 4.17 acres pist for 20 years, prior to having kids. “I felt adamant about to the PJ Black Company (Phil and Joy Black) for $975,000 that. I did not want to have to have the kids stay there all day. and kept the balance of their 50 acres to develop. You know, if they wanted to go home, I’m out of here.” The three story building has 11,000 square feet of space, The Telemark Shop then gave life to a number of other according to Marni Rieger of Peak Property Group at KW projects, trail systems, patents, and a new race category. Vermont, who listed the property for the Millers. In 1990, Mike put in the first Nordic trail system at Kil- Ben Colona and Phil Black are listed as the legal members lington on the golf course with lights. “There’s a lot of firsts Courtesy Mike Miller of Free Hub, LLC, with an assumed business name of "Base that we’ve done… we were the first to do guided tours up Diane and Mike Miller smile during a recent sunset skin up Pico. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LOCAL NEWS • 7

Sold, cont.: The Millers reflect on 32 years at the helm, see a bright future for the new owners from page 6 New Base Camp The Millers hired a company that drilled bores to determine And they were... It just felt so thankless and it is so much work.” the stability of the land and they said “this is more stable than Unfortunately, such incidents were too common. The Mill- natural earth,” Miller remembered. “The way they actually laid ers estimated that 90% of the time poachers were local people. owners plan ski this stuff in, Bernie was preparing for something to be put here.” “I mean we gave a deal, it was only $60 for locals. Come on, Once finished, in 2005, the current Base Camp Outfitters support the program,” Mike said. “So we just closed it this year building became the Millers' third business location. and didn’t miss it one bit. It was fine.” and bike hub What’s in a name? “Mike is very good at saying, ‘OK so this direction is dying Reflecting on some of the harder moments over the years, out, we need to go in a new direction,’ like the disc golf, moun- By Polly Mikula the Millers said coming up with a new name for the shop on tain biking and beer,” Diane added. “We plan to keep Base Camp going and add in the bike Route 4 tops their list. The future piece,” said Ben Colona of his plans for Base Camp Out- “We barely survived that,” Mike Miller said, admitting he “We’re leaving the shop in the best year in our history,” fitters in Killington, which he purchased last week with was stubborn and largely uncooperative through the process Mike said. “The uphill world is exploding right now… we went co-owner Phil Back. (“I was like no, no, no!”). Miller had built his entire business up there yesterday and there were just lines of people going Colona is the current president of the Killington Moun- up to that point on Telemark skiing and wanted it to remain up. It’s pretty cool.” tain Bike Club (KMBC) and Black is the vice president. For the Telemark Shop. “The next big explosion —and we’ve already ordered the the past five years, KMBC has built and maintained single However, in the end, it was Mike that came up with the new product for next year — is backcountry ski equipment, it’s track mountain bike trails in Killington through partner- name, Base Camp. this category that’ll be for the bike trails,” Mike said. “It’s a new ships with the Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont “I think I had just read a book or saw a show on Everest and middle category. This year we were sold out. It has heavier State Parks, the town of Killington, and private land owners. everyone was coming back to base camp to get more sup- leather boots, 75 millimeter, a little bit bigger ski with an edge Colona is currently the manager of Killington Sports plies,” he said. “I thought, that’s what this is going to be. We’re that you can tour up and then if you're competent you will Tele Retail and Bike Shop, a position he will leave in the coming not going to be able to do all the programs that we want to do down or you can come back down the trail you went up. This weeks to pursue the opportunity at Base Camp Outfitters ourselves but we can offer them. We can have subcontrac- year it exploded,” he said. full-time. Colona started working at Killington Resort while tors come in … everyone loved it! And that’s what we became. “It’s almost like going back to the early days of Tele when in college in 2008 at (then) Castleton State College while That’s why Kayak King Mark Bragg is out of here, we did the we used to ski on the little narrow skis and the leather Fabiano earning his degree in marketing/management, according bike bums out of here, we did fat bikes, and yoga and other boots, like a hiking boot,” Diane added. to his profile on LinkedIn. programs,” he said. “Yes, it’s like going back to old school, but the ski technology Co-owner Phil Black is the owner of The Lookout Tavern Cabin Fever also began when the new building opened is much better. So now you can actually tour quickly and still in Killington, a fun “burger and beer” joint on Killington on Route 4. "We just felt like we needed something more ski down,” Mike said. “And you can actually put on kicker skins, Road that he founded with his wife, Joy, in 2000. than Base Camp to get a draw,” ones that feed up underneath Over the years, Colona and Black had talked about col- said Diane Miller. “We’re leaving the shop in the best the ski. Fisher designed it. It’s laborating in various ways to create more cross-country In fact, Cabin Fever was more genius,” he added. mountain bike trails in town and further help Killington profitable than Base Camp at year in our history,” Mike said. Now that the Millers won’t become a welcoming bike community. first, the Millers said. have the daily responsibilities They started looking seriously into Base Camp Outfitters The Orvis fly-fishing flagship of running a shop, they plan to this past winter. store in Manchester served as inspiration. “get out and play more," and are looking forward to "skin- “It was last December that I first put the bug in Phil’s ear,” “When Orvis first started in Manchester it was a man’s ning during the day together!” they said. Colona said. “Phil and I have been working closely for the fly-fishing shop only,” said Mike Miller, but over the years, “it Diane said she also hopes to travel more, too, but they past five years at the Killington Mountain Bike Club and one morphed... to get into fly-fishing, you now have to go through won't be moving away. “We love it here. I mean, how much day I just said to him, ‘Hey, you know Base Camp is for sale'." miles of gimmicky blankets and all this other stuff. It really better can it get?” she said. At first Black thought the asking price was too high, but became, ‘Let’s make the wife or the non-fishermen happy first,' “We’re definitely going to stay in the area,” Mike agreed. “We then the parties began to talk creatively about how to strike because the fishermen are going to get to the back and get what love it here. Yes, we like out West, too, but that’s where we vaca- a win-win deal and longer-term partnership. they want,” he explained. “And it really worked. We almost tion. I would never want to live there. Vermont is home.” New owners > 8 called it the ‘guilt shop’ because people would come to buy skis Mike and Diane both plan to help the new owners Colona and then buy their wife or boyfriend or whoever something at and Black get their bearings at Base Camp, as needed. Diane the store,” he added. plans to help with “the books” and Mike with the buying and Miller introduces a new Mountain Meadows, downsizing sales, “if they’ll have me,” he said. After building the new Base Camp Outfitters shop on Route Because buying happens many months in advance, Mike XC ski race 4, the Millers also built a smaller touring center. has already begun. “They told me they want to keep Base Camp The sprint adds excitement, attracts “Then we started downsizing big time, we sold the big exactly as it is so ‘do what you’ve always done’ for buying next crowds, goes global groomer and decided to open only if it snowed,” Diane said. winter,” he said. “So we’ll get them set up for next year, keep it “We went from being worldclass, on par with Mountain Top, running … I just did an order yesterday, but you get what they By Polly Mikula Woodstock, Trapp's —we were in that caliber of Nordic center call ‘acknowledgements’ before they ship you stuff — that’ll “We’re the ones who pian, worked for us then and at that time — then we just went right down to being a mom- be around August — so we’ll have a chance to get in and do started the sprint series we were like, what are we go- and-pop operation,” Mike said. “Ironically, when we got rid another quick inventory together of what we have left and what which is now an Olympic ing to do? I was like, let’s have of all the big machines, that’s when we started making more they want, and say, OK we’ll take this,” he explained. event,” Mike Miller said of a race! … The only problem money. It was really crazy how it became more profitable.” Ben Colona has experience buying inventory for Killington the cross-county race he with Nordic skiing is that The Nordic center remained open until this past winter Resort, “but when it’s your own money things have to get tight- developed. it’s so boring to watch. I told season, 2020-21. ened up,” Miller said. “And they’re scrambling right now to get “It started at Mountain him, every time I watch your “We were going to close even without Covid,” Mike bike stuff, which is more urgent for the coming season.” Meadows, that was the races you guys say ’Go’ and said. “The store has been doing really, really well. The The Millers, however, are not worried whatsoever about the first one. The next year we all the parents come inside Nordic Center started to become like a little bit of a drag for new owners' plans or expertise running Base Camp and are traveled all over the country hang out with me and they me. I had to wake up at 5 a.m. to groom the trails and then excited for them to further develop it with a bike division and — Alaska, Idaho, California, don’t go back outside until come here and even though it was a good little chunk of expand programs on the community trails. Minnesota,” he continued. the kids finish — that sucks! change, it was just time to close it,” he said. "They're both very sharp, we're just here to help in any way," It all started with snow- (And they stagger them so “Mountain Meadows was always a burr for us. Like Mike said. "We want it to be a success and we have no doubts making. they finish one at at time, so people would just poach all the time. I feel like that’s a big that it will be." “That first winter we you have no idea how they part of it,” Diane added. “The way they’re going about it is to open their arms to dif- made so much snow, we placed.) So I came up with One time, in the spring of 2020, she recalled a specific mo- ferent bike shops, too,” Mike explained. “Last year with the Bike had piles that were 20 feet this idea... and I drew it all ment that solidified her desire to close. “I was out doing a pho- Bum stuff we invited other shops and they came down and did high on the trails,” Mike said. out for Mike and said. ‘This is toshoot for some advertising and I’m on the lake and two cars demos. We’re like, guys, come on down, it’s been the commu- “There were times when what I want to try to do’,” Mike drive up, three dogs get out, and two people with nothing on nity’s bike trails right from the start." you’d walk out onto our ski said. “Then he got Middle- their feet. Mike had just headed up to groom purple and green “Like I said 100 times and I’ll say it again, it’s been an incred- trail and you’d have to use a bury, UVM, Dartmouth, and [trails] and it was a beautiful day and I watched these guys get ible partnership. They’re great guys, it’s been a treat to work little ladder to get on the trail. the U.S. Ski Team to show up out of their car and walk up the trail and I was like, Oh my God, with them… I’d love to be able to stay here, if we’re welcome So we got into late April and —all in T-shirts and shorts — I cannot believe it, and I was like you know what? I probably and help these guys,” Mike reiterated. we had all this snow. Mike and we gave away some fun know them, and what’s more, they’re probably friends of mine! “They have a home run plan,” Diane said. Galliger, who was an Olym- Sprint > 8 8 • LOCAL NEWS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

New owners: Ben Colona and Phil Black take the helm at Base Camp Outfitters in Killington envisioning a lively hub for the ski and bike community from page 7 Over a month before the closing, with details still vision, too, but he wanted us to do it, I think, he was on Base Camp will allow e-bikes and e-fat bike on their needing to be resolved, Black was confident. "It'll take his way out the door; we’re on our way in the door,” said trails, since it's private land (e-bikes are not currently some time," Black said. "But I know we'll work something Colona. allowed on National Forest land), Colona explained. And out because we all know it's what this community needs." Because of mountain bike popularity and the pan- he expects e-biking will continue to grow in popularity. “I've had this vision to create a hub,” Colona said. A demic, Colona expects that there will be a bike shortage Colona also envisions bringing more activities to the place he visited in North Carolina in 2013 simply called this year and doesn’t expect to have many for sale at his trail system — from clinics and group rides to multi-use “The Hub,” exemplified this vision, he said. shop. “We will be selling bikes when we have them, but activities. According to its website: “The Hub shop offers awe- this year will be focusing on service (maintenance and “Beth has some cool ideas, too,” he said, referring to some bicycles, killer outdoor gear, friendly service, and repair), rentals, the retail side for bike gear,” he said. Beth Roberts, founder of Killington Boot Camp, which the latest in demos and rentals. The helpful and energetic He expects the rental fleet to arrive in April and May. will be relocating its fitness business from behind the staff is ready for anything. When your adventure is fin- “There is so much space here, so much opportunity... Lookout Tavern to the upstairs of Base Camp Outfitters. ished, join us for a local brew and tell us about it. There’s Eventually we hope to develop downstairs as a full “We expect things will change as we go, and I look no better place for bikes, outdoor gear and beer.” service station with two guys wrenching on bikes all day,” forward to all future opportunities,” Colona said. “The “That’s what I wanted to create here,” Colona said. “Kil- he said. more you know, the more you can learn,” he said, para- lington wasn’t ready for that in 2013, but I think it is now. Colona also hopes to build a skills areas in the back of phrasing John Long, a long-time Killington resident, Summer has evolved here.” the shop for folks to practice on “skinny rails” and other and personal friend, who helped build the bike park at “Phil was on board with that vision and Mike saw the elements. Killington resort.

Sprint: The 1km cross-country sprint race (now an Olympic event) was founded by Mike Miller in Killington from page 7 prizes at the end. It was all for fun. They Craftsbury, Stratton and we came back ter for this,” and I’m like you little piss- were just ripping through slush!” to Killington at night. It was a big suc- ass, these Nordic skiers have trained Six racers started together for a cess,” he said. “So the next year, I said I their lives, it didn’t just start ‘cause you 1-kilometer race. “It was a full sprint wanted to go nationwide. Toyota said picked up a snowboard and can do a with athletes diving across the finish it’s too big for us called Lexus… So I flip and then you win $60,000,” Mike line!” Mike said. Three people of each flew out to see Lexus in California, met recounted. “At this point when we heat moved on to a winner's bracket with them, they gave us a bigger pile of were in Idaho athletes were coming with the other three going to a loser’s money and we went nationwide.” from Germany, Liechtenstein, we had bracket, Mike explained. “Every The race at California’s Royal Rorge, racers from all over the world in our three minutes there was a group the biggest Nordic center in the United sprint series... But at the end of the day, diving across the line. You didn’t wan- States at the time, was among the most I told the athletes in our team meeting, na leave ‘cause it was ‘ready-go!’… It memorable events, Mike recalled. if I can get more money, because you was constant!” “It was just so cool ‘cause you could “Every three minutes there was a group diving across see it all,” Diane Miller said. the line. You didn’t wanna leave ‘cause it was ‘ready- In addition to Mountain Meadows, Mike hosted two races at Killington go!’… it was constant!” Mike explained. Resort. “One went through Snowshed; one at KBL [Killington Base Lodge] all “We always teamed up with the big guys deserve it, if I can’t bring more under the lights,” he said. tour that was going on (USSA) and we’d money to the table, then I’m done. The events drew top Nordic racers race the next day or the day before. Theirs Lexus was willing to stay in at the same from around the state, then country, was always on the weekend,” he said. price, but we walked away from it.” then the world. John Slouber, the founder of Royal But two years prior, USSA’s Luke Bo- It started with collegiate and U.S. Ski Gorge, said they had a big race on nenstein was under so much pressure and Snowboard (USSA) —the national Sunday, “so we could race Saturday. that “he jumped on board and said governing body for Olympic skiing and He really sort of poo-pooed it,” Mike we’ll support this anyway you want,” snowboarding— athletes. Then after remembered. But on race day, “There Mike said. “I think after he heard about one race Mike got up and “I just yelled were 10-15 people deep around the the tour and maybe the crowds in Cali- out, I have a question: if I can raise whole 1-kilometer loop. fornia or Idaho, he was forced to say money and pay you guys for this event “I was doing all the announcing, I this is this is an event that we’re going would you come? Because at that was always the emcee, ‘cause I knew to have to recognize." point we were completely controlled all the athletes, they became per- “When we walked away, they put it by USSA,” Mike explained. “Everyone sonal friends,” Mike said. The crowds in BKL [Bill Koch Youth Ski League, the screamed ‘this is the most fun’ and were not disappointed that day. “The largest, cross-country ski program for they just went crazy and said ‘you athletes were breaking poles out of youth in the U.S.], high schools started know, we would support this’.” the start and it was a horse race and doing it and then it worked its way up But he initially faced strong opposi- the people went crazy, and I’m yell- to World Cup — and they kept format tion from USSA. ing to Brett Williamson (he was my the same, our format,” Mike said. “I got Toyota to sponsor it, I had race director), I’m like, Brett can you Years later Mike was watching a all the venues in place, it was Ver- believe this? Who would’ve thought?! sprint series race hosted in Italy on mont-only that first year, called the And John’s like, ‘Next year you guys get television. Toyota Pro Tour. Then USSA comes in prime time Sunday, we want you back!’ “They do it downtown in this little and said, ‘You can’t do this, you can’t “That’s kind of the way it went for village and a famous writer, who does have our athletes racing for money’ two years,” Mike said. all the the announcing for USSA and I’m like, ‘Ok, Luke [Bodensteiner, An end, a beginning Nordic, named Peter Graves, was an- president of the USSA] I’m doing it and Mike’s involvement with the sprint nouncing and … we got recognition on I really don’t care what you say, I’m not tour ended as abruptly as it started, but national television,” Mike said, tearful controlled by USSA and the whole race the sport would continue on, eventu- at the memory. “The Italians were tak- series is my rules, it’s my format,” Mike ally making it to the World Cup and ing credit for it and he goes, ‘ugh, I beg recalled. then to the Olympics. your pardon, but this was started in “So we did the first year and the “Snowboarding was coming onto Vermont by a guy named Mike Miller’.” only race that didn’t work was Strat- the scenes then, heavy, and it was an “Not many people know that,” said ton (when only like six people showed Olympic event,” Mike said. “I remem- Diane. Mike’s sprint event “definite- up) but after that every race was great. ber them interviewing this kid and the ly solved the problems with Nordic ski We had Mountain Meadows, Trapp's, kid gets up and says, ‘I trained all win- racing, especially for viewership.” The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 STATE NEWS • 9 Scott: New CDC school distancing guidelines a ‘game changer’ for Vermont By Lola Duffort/VTDigger The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tion before long.” for not adequately emphasizing. (CDC) released new guidelines for distancing in K-12 Dr. Mark Levine, Vermont’s commissioner of health, was The Scott administration has been telegraphing for schools on Friday, March 19, likely paving the way for much more circumspect but implied Vermont’s own guidelines months that it wants kids back in person after the April more full-time, in-person instruction in Vermont. may indeed soon follow suit. school break, and Dave Younce, president of the Vermont For now, the state recommends that schools keep The CDC had only just made its announcement, Levine Superintendents Association, said this does largely clear the children in K-5 grades 3 feet apart, and older students 6 feet said at the press conference, and he hadn’t had the chance way for most kids to return to full-time, in-person instruc- apart. Until recently, CDC guidelines were even more con- to fully review the new guidelines. He also noted that 6 feet tion. Now, about 30% of students are already back in school servative, arguing that even the youngest children should was still the recommended distance in the upper grades four or five days a week, according to data from the Agency be kept 6 feet apart where transmission rates in the wider where community transmission was “high” and said it of Education. community were substantial. wasn’t yet clear to state officials what metric the CDC -be “My hunch is that most people in most places are going But that changed Friday when the federal agency an- lieved states should use. to do their absolute best to figure out how to make this hap- nounced that 3 feet would suffice across all grade levels, at Still, Levine said he was “pretty comfortable” with the pen,” Younce said. least in most circumstances. CDC’s new approach. But the CDC’s new guidelines are “no panacea,” Younce There have been two key obstacles to getting kids back to “We have been looking for this kind of guidance for said, and some families may want to stick to remote learn- school in-person full-time: a lack of vaccination for school quite some time now,” he said. “You’ve heard all the ing. Some local officials have also argued it makes little staff, and the 6-foot requirement, which many school of- compelling discussions regarding how our children and sense to redesign everything so late in the school year, and ficials argued made it often logistically impossible to fit all adolescents are not doing so well, and the better and it’s possible some communities will opt to stick to a mix of students back into buildings at once. quicker we can get them back into their in-person learn- remote and in-person learning. But teachers across the country, including Vermont, are ing environment, the better.” Further reopening schools will be complicated work, now eligible to get their Covid-19 vaccine shots. There are other caveats with the CDC’s guidelines. Younce said. If state officials really want all kids back in “If the CDC comes out and decides to go from 6 feet to Adults in schools must still remain 6 feet apart, as should full-time sometime in April, they should aim to get updated 3 feet, that’s a game-changer,” Gov. Phil Scott said Friday students when they are unmasked to eat. The new recommendations that spell out the rules of the road to during his regular Covid-19 press conference. “I see no recommendations also place additional importance on schools no later than the end of this month. reason why we wouldn’t be back in in-person instruc- ventilation, which experts have long criticized the CDC “The ability to pivot overnight, it doesn’t exist,” he said. Senate approves ‘vote by mail’ legislation Bill would make the popular mailed ballots policy permanent for all general elections in Vermont The gave approval last huge success. It was one big reason why we week to legislation that will make permanent shattered voter participation records, with the policy that was put in place as an emer- about 45,000 more votes cast than in any gency measure in 2020 to mail all active regis- previous Vermont election. Furthermore, tered voters a ballot for the general election. voting from home was found to be safe, sim- In addition to making universally-mailed ple, secure, and overwhelmingly popular. ballots permanent for all general elections, "The state’s leading pro-democracy orga- the bill (S.15) would allow voters to fix or “cure” a ballot if it has “Even as voting rights are being been deemed defective by a clerk Submmitted after being sent in. A common attacked and eroded in more than Stormwater treatment practice installed near Giorgetti Park in the City of Rutland is utilizing defect is when a voter fails to sign 40 states across the country, “green stormwater infrastructure” techniques. The project was funded through a DEC Clean the inner security envelope when Water Initiative Program grant, awarded to the Rutland County Natural Resources Conser- returning a ballot. Vermont is moving in a different vation District. A poll conducted last month by the independent firm Lincoln direction,” said Paul Burns. Park Strategies found that 68% State announces green schools initiative of Vermont voters want to keep vote by mail, nizations strongly support the legislation as while just 29% oppose it. Additionally 78% of an important way to encourage participation to fund stormwater mitigation at schools Vermonters also supported the curing provi- while leaving options for in-person voting Over $1.9 million will soon be available from the Vermont Dept. of Environmental sion, which was not available to voters during for all who may need or prefer that method Conservation (DEC)’s Green Schools Initiative to reduce stormwater runoff and pollution the 2020 election. of casting their ballot. The bill also contains entering Lake Champlain via public school grounds. The Green Schools Initiative offers Senate Pro Tem Becca Balint praised the a provision directing the Secretary of State funding and technical assistance to help public schools and state colleges meet the three- work of the Government Operations commit- to consult with municipalities and inter- acre general permit stormwater regulation. tee and its chair, Sen. : “When ested stakeholders on the best practices for “In partnership with Senator Leahy’s Office and the Lake Champlain Basin Pro- we make voting more accessible, more increasing access to voting for non-English- gram, the state has secured funds to support stormwater design and permitting for all people vote. When we make voting more speaking Vermonters," the letter concluded. three-acre schools in the Lake Champlain basin that wish to participate,” said Natural accessible, our democracy better represents “Even as voting rights are being attacked Resources Secretary Julie Moore. the will of the people. Voting is one of the and eroded in more than 40 states across The new three-acre general permit requires sites with three or more acres of paved or de- most sacred rights and responsibilities that the country, Vermont is moving in a differ- veloped surfaces, including roofs and parking lots, to treat polluted stormwater before it flows we have,” said Balint. “We have to do all we ent direction,” said Paul Burns, executive into Lake Champlain. This permit is an essential part of Lake Champlain’s restoration plan. can to ensure that all eligible voters can easily director of the Vermont Public Interest DEC is currently accepting applications from contractors to oversee a large block grant cast their votes and equal participation in the Research Group. “It’s critical in this mo- program that will complete stormwater design and permitting work on behalf of pubic work of our state and our nation.” ment that Vermonters unite to stand up for schools and colleges in the Lake Champlain basin. Schools will receive technical and Prior to the vote, senators received a let- democracy and not retreat from successful financial assistance for stormwater design and get help applying for the permit. Then, the ter urging passage of the bill sent jointly by policies that maximize voter participation.” block grant recipient will select subrecipients, such as local partners and environmental more than a dozen different organizations The legislation must next win approval engineering consulting firms, to complete initial steps to reduce runoff. and businesses in the state. According to in the House. Proponents of the bill aim Senator Leahy, who secured this EPA funding, said: “This is a win for students, our the letter: "There is no doubt that the policy to have it enacted this year so that it takes schools, and for Lake Champlain." of mailing all voters their ballots was a effect for the 2022 general election. 10 • STATE NEWS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Unaffordable rents leave many Vermonters without options By Julia Purdy Editor's note: This is part one in a three-part series exploring 2021 fair market rents for Rutland are: not the same as minimum wage. The site defines the living the rapidly rising cost of housing, real estate in Central Vermont. • Efficiency apartment, $764 wage as “the income you need to cover necessary and The disappearance of realistically affordable housing is a • One bedroom, $779 discretionary expenses while still contributing to sav- story that is told over and over, especially in the rental arena. • Two bedrooms, $918 ings. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Vermont is in the middle of the pack among all 56 states and • Three bedrooms, $1,252 the 50/30/20 budgeting rule — that allocates 50% of your territories for highest rental rates, according to Rentdata.org. • Four bedrooms, $1,378 income to necessities, 30% to discretionary expenses and A brief virtual tour around Vermont on Zillow’s interac- 20% to savings — the study found what you would need tive map of active listings shows home prices and rents for the most part emerged unscathed,” Politico added. to earn to comfortably cover your basic needs while still across the board, from $1,628 per month to rent a tiny one- Analysts acknowledge that one impact on affordable hous- saving for the future. But the results reveal that the average bedroom converted lakeside summer cabin in Colchester ing availability is the so-called “Airbnb effect,” which raises salary in your state might not be enough to do just that.” to $1,100 per month for a one-bedroom, 900-square-foot the average rent of an area by replacing long-term, moderate- GOBankingRates estimates the annual living wage for ranch with garage in Swanton, and most houses in Rutland priced rentals with high-end, short-term rentals aimed at va- Vermont as $77,063, adding, “Living in New England can get city neighborhoods listed for sale in the $250,000 range and cationers with disposable incomes. As leases expire or renters expensive, and the Green Mountain State is an example of this. up. Deceptively, some properties listed as “house” on Zillow vacate, they are replaced not by equivalent housing but by units With housing prices nearly 40% above the national average, it for an affordable $60,000 or $75,000 are actually undevel- that are more expensive but stay empty while courting more costs almost $17,000 a year to live in Vermont. With a median oped house lots. affluent temporary occupants. income of $61,973, Vermont residents fall well below earning “Too many people are paying too much for their housing. An In the 1920s and 1930s, the state of Vermont aggressively the annual living wage for the state.” unexpected medical expense, or even a temporary loss of job, wooed well-to-do professionals from southern New England New Hampshire fares somewhat better, since southeast- means they suddenly are unable to afford their rent,” Massa- to buy up underproducing or abandoned farms and boost ern New Hampshire has become a bedroom community for chusetts Housing Assistance Corporation CEO Alisa Magnotta property tax revenues. The process continues, under the name commuters who work in Boston, thanks to the expansion of told the Cape Cod Times. “Our region urgently needs to build of gentrification. Gentrification is not limited to middle-class light rail. GOBankingRates says: “While the cost of living in more affordable housing to ensure that everyone has a safe, educated professionals buying in run-down, and therefore New Hampshire drives up its living wage to more than $68,000 stable place to call home.” affordable, urban neighborhoods like Boston’s South End. The a year, the state also has a lot of residents with higher incomes, The lack of affordable housing is a perennial and growing new owners then move in themselves, or rent to others like leading to a median salary of $76,768 a year. The resulting gap issue in Vermont, and homelessness is the fallout. Agencies like themselves, displacing the usually lower-income occupants between the two of $8,546 is among the highest that’s most the housing trusts, housing authorities and nonprofit homeless and raising property values – and taxes – at the same time. favorable to residents in any state.” advocates, and federal housing assistance programs try to keep Martin Harris, a Princeton graduate in architecture and But Maine fares worse, demanding an annual living wage up with the need by building more subsidized units, but that urban planning, writing in New Geography in 2012, said, “In of $75,254. “Residents of Maine are much more likely to be housing is painfully slow in coming, certainly not keeping up both its urban and rural models, [gentrification] is enabled by struggling with higher costs than the rest of the country. The with the surge in open market prices. the newcomers’ advantages in wealth and skills, whereby they annual living wage of over $75,000 is among the highest in the Housing vouchers are available for private landlords to can readily afford to out-bid the locals for property...” country, but the median income there is on the lower side at accept, but they come with a social stigma attached. New con- In determining affordability of housing, analysts factor in just $57,918. That leaves a $17,336 gap between a median salary struction, as with the nonprofit Habitat for Humanity, is highly the living wage. and a living wage, one of the largest in the study," according to site-based and available land is dwindling. GOBankingRates.com cautions that “living wage” is GOBankingRates. Subsidized housing providers — not all of them non- profits — typically use a formula based on various percent- ages of area median income and HUD’s local “fair market Report: families with the lowest incomes fair the worst rent” benchmark of 30% of monthly household income to “The Gap: A Shortage of Afford- from the previous year, the supply of Solutions establish not only affordable rents but also to qualify their able Homes,” a new report released affordable housing is meeting less than Gus Seelig, executive director of projects for tax incentives. In qualifying projects, tenants March 18, by the National Low Income half the need for extremely low-income the Vermont Housing & Conservation pay 30% of before-tax total household income, although Housing Coalition (NLIHC), finds a renters. Approximately 64% of extremely Board said, “Vermont is experienc- other costs of living, such as medical bills, must come out of national shortage of nearly 7 million low-income households in Vermont are ing significant increases in real estate that same before-tax income. affordable and available rental homes severely cost-burdened and at risk of values, pricing too many Vermonters Fair market rent includes the typical cost of heat, water for extremely low-income (ELI) renter homelessness. out of the market. With the arrival of and electricity, whether the landlord pays it or not. It is households, those with incomes at or Furthermore, this data was collected federal Covid relief funding in 2020, determined annually by the U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban below the poverty level or 30% of their prior to the Covid-19 crisis, and the pan- Vermont was able to address both Development (HUD) using the American Housing Survey, Area Median Income (AMI). Nation- demic has since exacerbated challenges the immediate need to keep those conducted by the U.S. Census with households who moved ally, there are just 37 affordable and facing low-income households. The without homes safe and the underlying within the previous 24 months. available rental homes for every 100 ELI report shows that even before Covid-19 shortage of housing by adding 250 new Federal funding for such projects is contingent on tying rent renter household, and 70% of the poor- devastated many low-income house- affordable homes and improving 12 levels to the percentage of household income relative to the est renter households are severely cost holds, they were already struggling to shelters with 250 beds. It is imperative Area Median Income (AMI), and therefore limiting availability burdened, spending more than half of afford their rent. that we continue this momentum into to income-eligible households. their income on housing expenses, with “We’ve long known that Vermont 2021. With additional federal recovery Noting that “affordable” can mean different things to differ- little left over for other basic necessities. is facing a severe shortage of afford- funds on the way, Vermont must capi- ent people, Angus Chaney, executive director of the Vermont No state or metropolitan area in the able housing,” said Brian Pine, interim talize on this opportunity to protect the Coalition to End Homelessness in Rutland, said the median nation has an adequate supply of af- coordinator of the Vermont Affordable health and safety of our most vulner- household income in the Rutland area is about $71,500 (up fordable and available rental homes for Housing Coalition. “With an aging able households.” from $56,139 in 2019; and per capita income was $31,391 in the lowest-income families. rental housing stock and increased The Emergency Rental Assistance 2018-2019). So 30% of that figure is $26,200. Therefore, the fair In Vermont, there is a greater pressure on the housing market due to in the latest federal stimulus package, market rent would be under $655 per month. To be affordable percentage of affordable and available the pandemic, our partners face chal- along with the critical ongoing exten- to such a family earning 50% of AMI, or $35,750, rent would still rental homes for extremely low-income lenges in helping low-income families sion of Vermont’s statewide morato- have to be under $932 per month. Landlords may charge more, households than the national average, secure housing, even when they have rium on evictions and the Governor’s but the difference comes out of the tenant’s pocket. but the state still faces a severe afford- rental subsidies. There often simply is proposed one-time increase in funding The National Low Income Housing Coalition reported, able housing shortage, which impacts no affordable, available housing that for the Vermont Housing and Conser- in 2020, the national average fair market rent of $1,017 for a families with the lowest incomes most meets safety and quality standards.” vation Board, will help considerably to one-bedroom apartment, which requires a median hourly acutely. Even if rents fall during an economic keep precariously housed Vermonters wage of $19.68. Almost half of all workers in the U.S. earn less In Vermont, there are 18,813 ex- downturn, they will not fall sufficiently from falling into homelessness due than that, the report said. tremely low-income households, but to provide ELI renters with an adequate to the pandemic. As The Gap study In Vermont, newcomers from more economically robust only 9,200 affordable rental units avail- supply of affordable housing. shows, though, ending the long-term areas often choose to rent while they get to know the area and able to them. As a result, there are only Because the market consistently fails affordable housing crisis will require go househunting. What comes across as an exorbitantly priced 49 affordable and available rentals for to provide adequate, affordable housing significant and sustained investments. rental to local eyes looks amazingly cheap to them. Contributing every 100 extremely low-income house- for ELI, the government has an essential For more information, visit: nlihc. to what some might view as overpricing, “the crisis is unusually holds. While this is a slight improvement role to play to correct for this failure. org/gap lopsided: White-collar employees who can work remotely have The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 STATE NEWS • 11 IRS and Vermont extend April 15 income tax deadline to May 17 The deadline for Vermont personal income If taxpayers need additional time to file per- tax filings for tax year 2020 has been extended sonal income tax returns, they may request an from April 15 to May 17 in alignment with extension of time to file until Oct. 15. Those -re the federal due date questing an extension change announced by The state department of time to file for filing the IRS last week. personal income tax This extension of taxes encourages returns are reminded means taxpayers can taxpayers to file that these extensions file their 2020 Vermont do not extend the time personal income tax, electronically and to pay any tax owed, and pay any tax owed, request direct deposit if and tax must be paid by May 17 without by May 17 to avoid penalties and interest. they are owed a refund. penalties and interest. This extended due date Vermonters should also applies to Vermont homestead declara- still file their homestead declaration and prop- tions and property tax credit claims. erty tax credit claims forms by May 17 to avoid Courtesy CA.gov, Sunderland et. al. (2019) Although the filing deadline has moved, late fees assessed by a taxpayer’s town. Potential major exposure pathways of PFAS to humans are charted by the state of California. Vermonters who wish to file their returns and This extension does not apply to any tax claims before May 17 can still do so. The state year 2021 estimated payments. Most taxpay- department of taxes encourages taxpayers to ers do not need to make estimated payments Senate unanimously favors file electronically and request direct deposit if because their taxes are withheld from their restricting PFAS and other they are owed a refund. paychecks and paid by their employer. chemicals in consumer products FEMA has awarded nearly $4 By Amanda Gokee/VTDigger With health concerns mounting about PFAS chemicals, the Legislature is moving to restrict the sale of consumer products that contain that class of chemical. million to Vt for Covid-19 response The Senate voted Friday to approve that step; now, the House will consider the measure. The state of Vermont received a grant ment of PPE and medical equipment due S.20 would restrict PFAS — perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl — in consumer products totaling nearly $4 million from the Federal to UVMMC's connections and capabilities sold in Vermont. It also includes restrictions on phthalates and bisphenols. Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) beyond those of the state. UVMMC provided “We know that the chemicals like PFAS, BPA and phthalates can all seep into the foods we to help reimburse expenses associated additional expertise on medical fine details eat. We eat them, and they bio-accumulate,” said Sen. Virginia “Ginny” Lyons, D-Chitten- with Covid-19 response efforts. Since Janu- of PPE, as well as industry and logistical den, who sponsored the bill. ary 2020, Covid-19 has created an immedi- resources for both traditional and non-tradi- “Over time, they can cause some very significant, debilitating diseases,” said Lyons, a ate threat to the health and safety of the tional sources and delivery options. college professor with over 30 years of public requiring emergency response and The resources were distributed for emer- teaching, research and administrative PFAS themselves, known as protective measures. gency use by healthcare and first responder experience in the biological sciences. The grant, totaling $3,829,746, was personnel. N95 sterilizer machines were The chemicals have been linked to “forever chemicals” because awarded to the Vermont Dept. of Public distributed to multiple hospitals and medical ADHD, reproductive disorders and of how long they stick around, Safety for the cost of personal protection centers across the state to allow sterilization neurodevelopmental problems. They equipment (PPE) and N95 sterilizer ma- for multiple re-uses, a critical need when they have also caused nightmarish prob- have been linked to cancer and chines during the time between March 1, were bought and a continuously valuable lems with the drinking-water supplies other health issues. 2020 through Sept. 14, 2020. need until Covid is over. in the Bennington area. The state made the determination to work The funding was awarded at 100% federal PFAS themselves, known as “forever collaboratively with the University of Vermont cost share through FEMA’s Public Assistance chemicals” because of how long they stick around, have been linked to cancer and other health Medical Center (UVMMC) for procure- Grant Program. issues. But the chemicals are common in consumer products because of their water-resistant quality. They’re used in stain-resistant carpeting and rugs, waterproof jackets and nonstick pans. The bill wouldn’t ban the sale of all products containing the chemical, but it would ban the import and sale of some of the most common items containing the chemical — firefighting foam, Solid Waste Transfer Station food packaging, ski wax, and rugs and carpets. Textiles and leathers with stain-resistant and water-resistant treatments containing PFAS would also be banned. Location: 2981 River Road (Behind Town Garage) The bill is a start, said Lauren Hierl, executive director of Vermont Conservation Voters. Phone Number: (802) 422-4499 “It goes after some of the most common and widespread uses, but it’s not comprehensive. There would be some holes that we would want to continue working on,” Hierl said. Hierl said that the bill’s intent — to stop PFAS chemicals at their source — is a big priority for Vermont Conservation Voters. A similar bill passed the Senate unanimously last year but was SAT.& MON. (8 a.m.- 4 p.m.); SUN. (8 a.m.-noon) shelved when the Covid pandemic hit. This year’s legislation has added ski wax containing PFAS to the list of banned products. “We can turn off the tap of bringing these chemicals into the state,” Hierl said. Collection & transfer of solid waste deposited by residents and property owners of Firefighters support the ban the Town. (Windshield sticker & punch card needed) Recycling Center for residents Vermont firefighters support the legislation; they say effective alternatives are available that could protect firefighters from exposure to the chemicals. and property owners of the Town. (Free with windshield sticker) If you need to Bradley Reed, president of Firefighters of Vermont, said the bill would help to regulate chemi- dispose of solid waste outside the normal operating hours of the Transfer Station cals that are linked to cancer — the leading cause of firefighter mortalities. or have construction & demolition debris or other non-acceptable waste, residents “We can’t stand by and hope it goes away. We actively have to work to prevent our members and property owners of Killington can go to the Rutland County Solid Waste District from getting cancer,” said Reed, who has been a firefighter for 26 years. Transfer Station & Drop-off Center located on Gleason Road in Rutland. Reed said he wasn’t surprised to learn that PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam could cause cancer but has been surprised by the pushback on regulating the chemical. Winter hours began November 1, 2020. In the 23 years that Firefighters of Vermont has been in existence, “we’ve been fighting for the health and safety of our members,” Reed said. “I wish it wasn’t a fight,” he said. PFAS > 20 12 • NEWS BRIEFS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

Castleton: Community grapples with CU merger with state colleges Rutland Red Carpet Concierge from page 5 and lose our identity,” she said. “I don’t sity, which will now likely be required to think you have to do it that way.” rebrand again. program seeks volunteers Program cuts Both Castleton and NVU will allow students The Chamber & Economic Develop- based upon demographics, life stages, Spiro drew some attention last week after — including freshmen — to complete their ment of the Rutland Region(CEDRR) interests, and hobbies. The personal he accidentally announced that the Castle- majors in the programs being axed, and cours- is continuing to move forward with the match provides the individual interested ton University marching band would need es in the subject areas will remain available. regional marketing initiative, Real Rut- in learning more with their very own to make cost-related changes. The president, New president land. The campaign is designed to attract guide to all things Rutland County. who believed the marching band had already Another notable change: A new president individuals and families from across the Concierges bring a wide range of dif- been informed that it would soon downsize, will lead the combined university, taking the country to move to Vermont, specifi- ferent perspectives on what our area has via a regular newsletter-style communica- helm in January 2022. Current presidents cally to Rutland County. After a pause to offer, and CEDRR is looking to expand tion to faculty, which students soon saw. will remain in their positions until the new in the marketing efforts as a result of the this network into an even larger, diverse Many criticized his tone as flippant. institution receives its accreditation. pandemic, the initiative is geared up and group of strong individuals who are pas- “If you think my decision to forgo an While some worry that Castleton’s identity ready to start advertising the hundreds sionate about this region. in-person commencement was met with a could be further diminished without a sin- of available jobs in Rutland County. As a CEDRR currently has about 25 active certain amount of, um, grumbling among gular face to represent the institution, Olson result, CEDRR is seeking additional vol- concierges as volunteers who are com- the troops, just wait until I tell you about this said the staff and faculty union also supports unteers to participate in the Rutland Red mitted to this region and are excited to other cherished tradition that my admin- this move, and hopes trustees will further Carpet Concierge program. welcome new individuals and families to istration has demolished,” he wrote before consolidate the schools’ administrations. The Rutland Red Carpet Concierge our region. relaying his “decision to downsize the scope She wants to see a greater emphasis on main- program was created as an aid to those in- Concierges could also volunteer of the marching band.” taining and expanding terested in moving to the greater Rutland through Real Rutland in additional ways “While we were programs, and said area. The program allows a personal con- such as helping write blog posts and staff proud to be the only cutting administrative nection to be formed between a concierge the online chatbot through its website. university in the state positions could help. and the prospective individual or family. “We know there are many more indi- with a marching band, Serving on the labor This connection is one that is welcoming, viduals throughout our region that share the endeavor was no task force, she helped supportive, and unique. The role of a con- this same passion and we are asking for longer sustainable,” to create an alternate cierge is to guide the process of moving, your help to continue to help make this the email said. proposal that focused finding a place to live, a career or careers, region an even better place to live, work, Spiro has since more heavily on those identify social group opportunities and and play,” the CEDRR board wrote in a apologized, hold- consolidations. It sug- ultimately, make Rutland County feel like recent news release. ing a town hall with gested including the home before they have even arrived. For those interested in learning more students on Monday Community College When a new lead indicates they are about the Rutland Red Carpet Concierge to explain the mistake. of Vermont under the interested in learning more about Rutland program and how to get involved, reach “I met with them and new institution’s um- County, they are added to CEDRR’s per- out to Communications & Community first of all apologized Submitted brella, for example. sonalized funnel system. This system al- Engagement Director Kim Rupe, 802-770- profusely that this is Jonathan Spiro is the interim president While trustees lows them to be matched with a concierge 7061 or [email protected]. how they found out,” at Castleton University. and members of the he said. “That was chancellor’s office a mistake on my part, that I erroneously have adopted some of the labor task force thought they had already been told, and I suggestions, Olson said she now feels shut Assisted LLivingiving was really sorry. And they seemed to cut me out of the process. some slack.” “I think it’s a shame that we’re already Breting, who played football at the col- cutting majors this early in the game,” at The Meadows lege, said the band’s downsizing makes him she said. “It’s not saving us any sufficient nervous. “That’s where my concern is,” he money, whereas if we did actually cut ad- For more than 25 years, said. “Where are we five years down the line? ministrative positions, we would be saving Where are we 10 years down the line? Are we substantial money.” The Meadows at East Mountain going to start cutting these programs?” “We now have no public institution has been Rutland County’s Both Castleton University and Northern teaching geology in the state of Vermont, trusted name for assisted living. Vermont University, which has campuses in the Green Mountain State, for God’s sake,” Johnson and Lyndon, have already cut other she said. “That’s just unbelievable to me.” programs. Though these are due in part to At the same time, she said the merger Call 802-775-3300 or the state colleges system Policy 109, which could make some programs stronger. If visit us online if we can requires public colleges to identify and elimi- Castleton students interested in meteorol- assist you or a loved one. nate majors with low enrollment, the cuts are ogy wanted to take a class at the Lyndon also a result of the system’s request that col- campus of Northern Vermont University, leges take a hard look at operating costs. they could do so.

Private Rooms • Dining • Activities Where “This fall, Castleton and NVU undertook a “That kind of cross-collaboration will make Help with Personal Care & Medications the living special process to look more closely at the du- us stronger as a system and also will serve our Transportation • Housekeeping plication of programs due to each institution’s students and the state better,” Olson said. Memory Care is easy. anticipated operating deficits,” said Katherine Levasseur said the public has been able Levasseur, the state colleges system’s director to comment on decisions made so far, and of external governmental affairs. encouraged the community in Castleton Within that process, Castleton decided and elsewhere to remain active during the this fall to cut its geology, geography, Span- transition by checking on the Vermont State ish, women’s and gender studies, and Colleges website, which announces op- philosophy majors. portunities for public comment and hosts Northern Vermont University recently cut links to the details of the merger. Students its biology, music education and sustainabil- will have an opportunity to give input at a ity studies majors, and its journalism major student forum in April, for example. has been swapped out for a program called A lot is still up in the air, Levasseur said. 240 Gables Place • Rutland, VT professional writing, editing and publishing. “There’s so much that is going to depend www.themeadowsvt.com NVU’s two campuses were formerly sep- on the feedback that we get from our ac- arate entities — Lyndon State College and creditors on what they think that we should Johnson State College. In 2016, state college do in order to meet their requirements,” she Select residency now available trustees voted to consolidate the schools said. “As always happens, we will be adapt- into the single Northern Vermont Univer- ing and learning along the way.” The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 NEWS BRIEFS • 13 Rotary raffle begets happy campers After considerable hype, Rutland South would win.” Rotary Club finally raffled off its new 25’10’’ Champine is excited for her nine nieces Riverside Retro Travel and nephews, plus 19 Trailer from Dan Kear- The raffle raised grandnieces and grand- ney’s RV & Lightweight nephews to enjoy the Towables on March 17. $39,000 to benefit camper. The lucky winner was Rutland South Rotary Barbara Champine, from youth programs also gave away three cash Florence. in Rutland County. prizes. Eric Kaplan won “I heard about Ro- $1500 ; Tina Greene won tary South’s fundraiser, $1000, and Mike and Laurie had some extra cash, and was happy to Brochu won $500. buy a ticket for such a good cause,” Bar- The raffle raised $39,000 to benefit youth bara Champine said. “I never dreamed I programs in Rutland County.

By Steven James One lucky guy Thomas Ketcham, a retired history teacher at Otter Valley Union High School, celebrated win- ning $10,000 when the Publishers Clearing House prize patrol rolled up to surprise him at his home in Middlebury on March 11. Ketcham immediately phoned his wife, Judith, who at first didn’t believe he had won. “Don’t be so silly,” she said. When the PCH representative Howard Guja, who had arrived with the big check, flowers and balloons, asked what she would do with the prize, she said, “It’s his money, he can do whatever he likes.” Mr. Ketcham said some of it might go toward a trip to visit family in Florida.

Submitted Barbara Champine (center) from Florence stands with her family and friends in front of her new RV. Pictured around her are: Roger Louiselle from the Rutland South Rotary (back left), John Sanborn from the Rutland South Rotary (back right), and Barbara Champine's grand- By Steven James niece and grandnephew Anna Poremski (front left) and Leland Poremski (front right). Vermonters overwhelmingly support expanded bottle bill Over 4 out of 5 also want it updated to cover more containers

Vermont’s bottle bill is not only one of the state’s most law by covering water bottles, in a poll done last month by successful environmental programs, having recycling sports drinks, and wine, among H.175 ... would expand the the same firm, Gov. Scott was more than 10 billion containers since 1972, it also may be other things. The VPIRG poll, viewed favorably by 80% of the most popular. conducted by the independent scope of Vermont’s law by respondents. The Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG) firm, Lincoln Park Strategies, covering water bottles, sports According to the poll, 91% released new statewide polling data on Tuesday, March found 83% support for such an of respondents have used the 16 that showed 88% of respondents support the cur- expansion, with 64% of respon- drinks, and wine. current law to return contain- rent bottle bill program with just 8% opposed. And as a dents strongly supporting the ers for redemption to a retailer proposal to modernize Vermont’s container redemption idea. or redemption center. Among program moves toward a crucial vote in the House, the “These findings demonstrate just incredible public those supporting the law, the top three reasons given poll suggests overwhelming public support for a key support for the bottle bill and for legislation to update were because it reduces litter, increases recycling, and provision of the legislation. it,” said Paul Burns, executive director of VPIRG. “In fact, protects the environment. H.175, now being considered in the House Ways & the bottle bill may be the only thing in the state more On Feb. 26, the key environmental committee in the Means committee, would expand the scope of Vermont’s popular than Phil Scott right now,” he joked, noting that House passed H.175 on an 8-3 vote. 14 • NEWS BRIEFS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

Vaccine: All Vermonters will be eligible for Covid protection by mid-April from page 1 Eligible Vermonters are asked register online at healthvermont.gov/MyVaccine (pre- ferred) or by calling 855-722-7878. Prior to March 25, Vermonters age 65 and older, and those 16 and older with specified high risk health conditions, were eligible in addition to staff within the education, public safety and healthcare systems. As of March 23, 179,600 people have been vaccinated in Vermont with 82,500 receiving their first dose and 97,100 receiving both their “first and last dose,” according to Mike Smith, secretary of Human Services. Because of the state’s prioritization of its most vulnerable, 86% of Vermonters 70+ have been vaccinated; and 66% of those age 65-69. “Our age banding approach has allowed us to first protect those at greatest risk of hos- pitalization and death, which is our top priority, and our approach has been effective. In fact, while we have one of the oldest populations in the country, we have among the highest percentage of people age 65 and older vaccinated,” said Scott in a statement, March 19. Additionally, about 23,000 educators and childcare workers have received a first dose or made appointment for their first dose, Smith said, Tuesday. Vaccination clinics for educators continue throughout the state with two scheduled locally in Rutland and Hart- land on March 29. Recently, the state has been vaccinating 3,700-7,900 residents per day with an average of 5,000 per day, and will be increasing capacity as federal allocations continue to rise, Smith said. This week the state expects 23,000 doses of Covid vaccine to be distributed and admin- istered, Scott said Tuesday, which is 5,000 higher than last week due to one-time increases from Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson to both the state and pharmacy programs. In anticipation of greater federal allocations in April and all Vermonters becoming eligible, the state plans to activate a larger contingent of National Guardsmen on April 15 to help distribute and deliver doses. Full efficacy Officials said the length of the entire process will vary, but Vermonters can expect it to take up to two months from the time of registration to the point where a person is consid- ered to be fully vaccinated. This includes the anticipated time between registration and the first dose, the time between the first and last dose, and the two weeks needed after a last dose for the vaccine to be fully effective. “Things are indeed moving forward but we’re not here quite yet,” said Health Commis- Courtesy of VT Dept. of Health sioner Mark Levine, MD, on Tuesday. “If you’ve been listening to health experts across the Chart of Vermont's vaccination by age band shows the vulnerable are now mostly protected. nation you’d see that the medical community is all aligned in where we stand… it’s not a doom and gloom message but nor can we declare victory. “We know the end is near, we can almost see it. But it’s also the point in the race where stumbles can be most risky,” Levine emphasized. “We’re still in a very delicate time where the virus and its variants can and will take advantage of us if we let our guard down. It has the potential to set us back in our efforts hampering us in the race. “Only by keeping our distance, wearing our masks and avoiding crowds can we continue to keep the virus at bay while we vaccinate as many Vermonters as we can as quickly as we can. Keep gatherings small, try to avoid traveling that’s not essential, and get tested,” he concluded. In Vermont, there have been 25 cases of vaccinated people testing positive for Covid-19. But none have been seriously ill or hospitalized, Levine said. “Of the total 179,600 people vaccinated in Vermont, this is a very very small percent- age,” Levine said. Scott added that “it takes six weeks after the first dose until full efficacy; and two weeks after second dose… it’s unclear of those 25 positives if they were at full efficacy,” he said. A plea to the youth Levine made a plea to younger Vermonters on Tuesday, after commissioner of Finan- cial Regulation Michael Pieciak noted that the average age for Covid cases in Vermont has dropped to under 30, at age 29. “A huge part of the emphasis has been on older and more vulnerable Vermonters, but Courtesy of CDC today I’m asking younger Vermonters to watching out for themselves and doing everything Vermont ranks second nationally for vaccinating its residents over 65 years old at 81.6%. they can do to avoid getting Covid,” Levine said. “Now as you’ve seen older people are far more protected by vaccines, or soon will be, so the next request I am making is to Vermonters —especially those in the teenage years to age 40 — is that you need to protect yourself. You’ve seen the data, the highest case counts are now among young people,” Levine continued. “Why worry about protecting yourself? Because of a topic I haven’t touched upon recently, but which has made a comeback again in the news cycle: it’s long-haul Covid or PACS (Post-Acute Covid Syndrome),” Levine said. “It’s true we have so much more to learn about this and to understand how many people are at risk but whether the number is 10% or 30% all I know is that this pandemic has been called ‘the largest mass disabling event in some time.’ It does not spare a person because they’re young. We don’t know enough about it yet to accurately predict who might be at risk for chronic symptoms, those that continue to surface three or four months after the initial illness… they can have many possible mani- festations from chronic fatigue to shortness of breath to exercise intolerance to brain fog or memory loss. I don’t want anyone to risk developing this, to have your lives hindered by what is starting to become an avoidable virus. To avoid it… Just don’t let your guard down now, it’s the homestretch — keep up with masking; keep a safe distance from others and avoid crowds, and get tested if you find you’ve been in a risky situation or think you might even have minor symptoms — and then get vaccinated when you have the chance. After enduring what you have for the past year you owe it to yourself… “The best vaccine for you is Courtesy of VT Dept. of Health the one you can get right now,” Levine said. While the state's vaccination plans are progressing, Covid cases remain at a high plateau. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 NEWS BRIEFS • 15 WRJ VA healthcare is Ben Worthing hired as new principal for offering vaccinations for Fair Haven Union High School veterans of all ages Slate Valley is pleased to announce years, Worthing took on the position White River Junction VA Healthcare System has begun that Ben Worthing has been selected of assistant principal at the Castleton offering Covid-19 vaccinations to veterans of all ages who as the new principal of Fair Haven Elementary and Village Schools for the are enrolled in VA healthcare. Union High School (FHUHS) for the 2020-2021 school year. With the greater and more consistent availability of 2021-2022 school year. The Slate Valley “I am thrilled to be coming back Covid-19 vaccine, White River Junction VA Healthcare Unified Union School Board ap- to Fair Haven in this new position,” System is now able to schedule enrolled veterans of all pointed Worthing to the position at its said Worthing. “I feel very connected ages to receive the Covid-19 vaccine. For an appointment regular meeting, March 22. with the students, staff, families, and call 802-296-5151. “We are very excited to have Ben community as a whole. There are a lot If you are a veteran not enrolled in VA Healthcare, assume the role as Fair Haven Union of strengths at Fair Haven that I hope to contact the enrollment office beforehand to begin your High School principal," said Brooke build upon. I am also very cognizant of application, at 802-295-9363 extension 5118. "It’s important for everyone to continue using all the “I am able to bring the strengths I developed as a tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how Covid-19 vaccines work in real-world condi- teacher: high expectations for all learners with a Courtesy SVUUSD tions," the White River Junction VA said in a news release. focus on empathy-building and social/emotional Ben Worthing Even after vaccination, the VA reminds veterans and employees to: wellbeing,” said Worthing. “These ideals match with program for teacher development) • Wear a face covering and served as a volunteer for Special • Watch your distance (stay 6 feet apart) the Slater Nation philosophy. Olympics. • Wash hands frequently “As a leader, I feel I am able to "The VA is eager to begin administering the vaccine and Olsen-Farrell, superintendent. “He the needs and challenges that require bring the strengths I developed as asks all veterans and VA health care personnel for their has devoted his career to the Slate Val- our attention, especially in regard to a teacher: high expectations for all patience when calling in to schedule as the call volume has ley community and is an excellent fit.” the demands Covid has created over learners with a focus on empathy- increased," the statement continued. Worthing began his career in Slate the past year.” building and social/emotional "Our goal is to offer a Covid-19 vaccine to all veterans Valley at Fair Haven Union High Originally from Owego, New wellbeing,” said Worthing. who want one. Legislation is currently going through School in 2000 as an instructional York, Worthing is married with three “I know these ideals match with the Congress that if passed, would allow us to offer vaccines assistant and later a special education children.One is currently a senior Slater Nation philosophy. I am excited to all veterans, and possibly their caregivers and spouses. case manager. From 2003-2020, he at FHUHS and another is planning to build upon the long traditions held Until this legislation passes and becomes public law, we taught science at the high school and to attend as a freshman next year. In at Fair Haven Union High School won't know who will be eligible," the WRJ VA states on their was twice awarded the Teacher of the addition to his career in Slate Valley, while also working hard to build new website. Year recognition, and once the UVM Worthing has worked as an adjunct connections and new traditions that For more information visit whiteriver.va.gov/services/ Teacher of the Year. professor at Green Mountain College continually re-energize our Slater covid-19-vaccines. After teaching at FHUHS for 20 and Castleton University (in a summer community," Wothing added. “Only as a community will we be able to beat COVID-19.” Lisa Graves-Austin, MD, FACP Community Health

Schedule Your Vaccination Appointment: HealthVermont.gov/MyVaccine or 855-722-7878 16 • Opinion The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 OP-ED As much as roads and bridges, Vermont’s civic infrastructure needs help By Richard Watts and Meg Little Reilly Editor’s note: Richard Watts is the director of the Center for Research on Vermont, and Meg Little Reilly is a Vermont writ- er and editor with the Community News Service (a program which pairs college students work with professional editors to write news stories for local papers around Vermont.) With needed attention now focused on the nation’s physical infrastructure, crumbling bridges, collapsing transit systems, hospitals and more, just as much attention needs to be paid to the nation’s civic infrastructure. And Vermont can lead the way. New funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 will explicitly invest in state improvements in water, sewer and broadband, with additional funding for more discretion- ary spending for the public benefit. Vermont should seize this opportunity to invest in its civic infrastructure, starting with local media. Civic infrastructure can be understood as the processes and practices that build trust in com- With more than munities and bind 20,000 college us to one another — and it can’t be students in the done without lo- Grandparent hugs by John Darkow, Columbia Missourian cal news. Healthy state, there is great LETTERS democracies require opportunity to scale reliable sources of RASTA is Vermont youth Remembering Henry Miles, 52 local information this model up. Dear Editor, and government ac- changing its call for the I stayed with Henry countability (as this pandemic has demonstrated). A strong name; seeks passage of S.53 Miles for three years while civic infrastructure can produce measurable returns for going to school in Rutland. the well-being of Vermonters. Social cohesion, ease and ef- public input Dear Editor, He gave me shelter from the fectiveness of governance, and civic participation all increase Dear Editor, Editor's note: The fol- storm. He did not drink one with the presence of local journalism. The Rochester/Randolph lowing is an open letter drop for three years while I The benefits are as economic as they are social. Area Sports Trail Alliance from Vermont students to was there, but I needed to Research demonstrates that local news can be highly gen- (RASTA) is embarking on a Vermont representatives. go to take care of a relative erative. And in a state economy that relies so heavily on our name-changing process. We, the undersigned who had dementia out of rich cultural offerings, natural beauty and attractions, the We feel our acronym Vermont students, wish state. I would have taken attention that comes from ongoing coverage of our local hap- evokes associations to a to convey the urgency for him with me, but his drink- penings is immense. name that isn’t ours to the passage of S.53. Period ing would have made it Yet, there has been a complete collapse of local media use. Out of respect for poverty is real and perva- impossible for him to live Submitted across the country. More than 1,300 counties now lack a local the Rastafari religion and sive, and it affects many there. Henry Miles media outlet and many have become “ghost” papers, shells of movement, we will soon be Vermonters. You have the Miles had a disability for their former selves or advertising vehicles for national chains. changing the name of our ability to help end that and sure. No one really ever was wait at the bus stop while Here in Vermont, we still have almost 40 community club. This name-changing provide the equal footing aware of this. I believe it was raining and walk me back papers, but they are in danger of collapsing, with ad revenues process offers the opportu- that all Vermonters who a mild case of Autism. I am to the apartment with the sucked away by Google and and struggling to sur- nity to recognize the club’s menstruate deserve. not a physician, but it was umbrella over me. He was a vive. By one count we have lost more than 100 reporters from expanded geographic reach Under current Vermont apparent that he did have a very sweet man. our newsrooms in the last 10 years. And several papers have and growing partnerships law, menstrual products learning and functional dis- There will be an open been forced to close, reduce print days or move all-digital. throughout the state. are taxed at a rate of 6%. ability, and the liquor was mass for him at Christ the At a time when trust in public institutions is low, Vermont From its birthplace in These products are not a like poison to his system. King in Rutland on March can be a leader for rebuilding civic connections and engage- Rochester in 2013, the luxury but indeed a human He was scheduled to 30 at 4:45 p.m. All are wel- ment through local news. There are creative ways to do this. Rochester/Randolph Area right. Our state’s laws and go up north to a rehab, but come to attend. In a program called the Community News Service, col- Sports Trail Alliance has pocketbooks must align something happened. The Eulogy for Henry Miles lege students work with professional editors to write news grown into a trail network with our priorities and community in Rutland at There once was a man I stories for local papers around Vermont — the students encompassing nine towns values. To allow the tax on the Yellow Deli were help- knew with a heart of gold. learn and engage with Vermont communities and the in central Vermont. Found- period products to continue ing him, but he was not will- His specialty was to make papers get important local content. The program is led by ed by local outdoor enthusi- is to conclude that those ing to change his religious people laugh due to his UVM, with funding from the university’s Office of Engage- asts who worked closely on who menstruate in fact do beliefs. Consequently, he witty charm. Henry Miles ment and College of Arts & Sciences but includes students Rochester’s Tropical Storm not deserve the dignity and did not stay with them, but baked the best Lemon from Community College of Vermont, Northern Vermont Irene recovery efforts, the equality that comes with they were most gracious to Meringue this side of the University and Castleton University, about 20 Vermont alliance began with discus- liberation. To allow the tax him. Mississippi. He was a lover media partners and eight professional editors [including sions on the collaborative on the period products to He had a picture of him of memorabilia, and his the Mountain Times and editor Polly Mikula]. The program response necessary for the continue is to be complicit and his friend Nick A. while collection was exquisite, in- has also helped bring local news back, providing content area’s post-Irene economic in our oppression. they were in New York cluding a beautiful jukebox. statewide to local news outlets. revitalization and to sort a A closer look at our state’s City the time he held an He loved nature and With more than 20,000 college students in the state, there way through the low-impact tax code presents a telling umbrella for Mariah Carey he could always be found is great opportunity to scale this model up. creation of a local trail story about our priorities. while walking in the city. walking on Wheelerville Rd. A similar project (the Underground Workshop) with high network. When items such as garters, That is the kind of guy he in Mendon. He was sweet Civics > 20 RASTA > 18 S.53 > 18 was. He would frequently Miles > 18 The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 OPINION • 17

COMMENTARY CAPITOL QUOTES A call of the wild: management On the migrants flooding into the United States’ southern border... amidst winds of change By David F. Kelley Vermont’s House Natural Resources Committee is considering reforms to wildlife man- “The previous Administration’s taxpayer agement. It is about time. In Vermont wildlife is a public trust. Like any trust, the trustees funded vanity wall along the southern border have a duty to avoid waste and to act in the best interests of the beneficiary. In this case was never a real solution to addressing the the beneficiary is the public. Management decisions should be in the public interest and challenge of immigration in our country. It should be based on sound science. Today they are was a slogan made for a bumper sticker – not. The final decision-making power over much of The board continues Vermont’s wildlife doesn’t rest with the profession- not an effective national policy. A wall, no als at the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. That to allow bears to be matter how high or secure, will not deter power rests with a volunteer board appointed for hounded by packs of families and children who are turning six-year terms. That board is chosen in an opaque, themselves in at the border in an effort to closed door process, without public input or dogs even while cubs flee violence, chaos, and poverty in their review. Qualified applicants frequently don’t even get an acknowledgment of their application. are still nursing. home countries. As the Chairman of the It is a wildlife management scheme left over Appropriations Committee, and a senior from another era, and it is impervious to change. The board has refused to end killing con- member on the Judiciary Committee, I look tests. It has refused to end no bag limits on some wildlife. It has refused to end the 24/365 forward to working with President Biden on open season for some species. The board ignores the advice of experts on critical issues real solutions to this challenge,” such as moose hunts. It willingly extends trapping seasons for river otters, despite the fact that river otters in Vermont are listed as a “Species of Greatest Conservation Need.” The Wildlife > 19 said Sen. Patrick Leahy LETTERS S.10, UI Legislation, will cost Beware false “As far as the children are concerned, you can Vermont job creators more than prophets imagine me as a mother of five, every minute that a parent is separated from a child to me is a crisis, so $47-$56 million Dear Editor, Dear Editor, False prophets are not we want this to move along expeditiously,” Editor's note: the follow- 2. creates a new ben- just a fixture of ancient ing is an open letter to mem- efit for dependent times. In April of 2020, said Sen. Nancy Pelosi bers of the Vermont Senate. coverage that will experts predicted that as On behalf of NFIB and cost an est. $12-$21 many as 60,000 people AGC/VT members in million in costs – a might die from Covid-19 in “When you create a system that incentivizes Vermont, we are writing to ex- significant change this country. People reacted press our opposition to S.10, passed in the 11th in disbelief. people to come across, and they are released, that legislation that was intended hour without any In a nation with such immediately sends a message to Central America to hold harmless small busi- testimony. great technology, a fervent that if you come across you can stay. It incentivizes nesses from the historic event Here are some key facts for commitment to rule of law, droves of people to come, and the only way to slow – pandemic unemployment your consideration: churches inspiring neigh- it down is by changing policy at our doorstep. If in the magnitude of $1 billon. • The unemployment borly behavior, and schools, NFIB went on record insurance tax is paid parents, and workplaces they don’t change the policy, the flow of continued in the Senate economic by employers (not emphasizing personal migration traffic isn’t going to stop or slow down,” development committee on employees). Employ- health, that could never February 2, 2021 support- ers pay into Ver- happen here. said Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas) ing legislation as introduced mont’s UI fund based The expert predictions because it provided relief of on four variables: turned out to be false not charges from March 15 to Experience rating, tax because of overreach, but December 31, 2020. Going rate schedules (cur- under-reach. Today, in “We will not expel into the Mexican desert, for example, into this historic pandemic rently set at sched- February of 2021, the nation three orphan children. We are safely processing the the Vermont Unemployment ule-1), taxable wage is hurtling along toward children who do come to our border. We strongly urge, Trust Fund was overfinanced, base and benefit 600,000 deaths. so providing small businesses ratio. At the end of 2019, our and the message is clear, not to do so now. I cannot protection from a cost shock • Employers are not leaders were also assuring overstate the perils of the journey that they take,” certainly would have been responsible for the us that kids were learn- appreciated. increased use in ing plenty in school, the said Dept. of Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas However, S.10 as passed 2020; rather it came economy was strong like a out of the Senate economic as a direct result of steel girder, the health care development committee government orders to system could heal all ills, (the committee) will cost close or restrict busi- the two-party system was “There is no crisis at the border. There is a recurring Vermont small business ness activity. robust, and violence was problem at the border, which is being addressed, owners $47-$56 million. • Providing relief in disappearing in America. and which could be considerably ameliorated by a The bill: the bill as introduced Wowza! Our best predic- sensible and humane overhaul of our immigration 1. Increases benefits by from this historic tors and promisers—scien- 20% which will add period of use of the tists, politicians, economists policies and practices, practices the Trump $35 million in costs fund is not a gift (or a and religious leaders— administration made worse,” to small business “business handout”) clearly were not half as owners – this only it is simply adjust- smart as they thought they said "The Bulwark" editor-at-large Bill Kristol makes it harder to ing it at a slower rate were. encourage workers (businesses will still Sincerely, to come back into the have to pay for the Kimball Shinkoskey workforce. S.10 > 19 Woods Cross, Utah 18 • OPINION The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

CARTOONS RASTA: Rochester/Randolph Area Sports Trail Alliance seeks new name from page 16 Eight years later, the and looking forward to the role these trails will con- Rochester/Randolph Area new era our name change tinue to play in the region’s Sports Trail Alliance and represents. The Rochester/ economic vitality as the its many partners have Randolph Area Sports Trail state begins to reopen. spearheaded a number of trail development projects Out of respect for the Rastafari and have grown a strong local collective of trails in religion and movement, we Rochester, Randolph, Gos- will soon be changing the hen, Pittsfield, Stockbridge, Bethel, Braintree, Brandon name of our club. and Hancock to serve pas- sionate outdoor enthu- Alliance continues in its In the spirit of positiv- siasts. These avid skiers, dedication to providing sus- ity that this trail club has riders, walkers and hikers tainable multi-use trails for brought to all the commu- help create and maintain all to enjoy, and to strength- nities it has touched, it is the alliance’s many multi- ening community ties in reaching out to members use trails and backcountry the process. We celebrate for name suggestions. The zones. our associations with the goal is to work through the As spring approaches Catamount Trail Associa- process in the next couple and our communities begin tion, Vermont Mountain of months and to open the opening up after a year of Bike Association, state and summer season with a new lockdown, the energy of federal agencies, and many name in place. another new beginning is private landowners. The Regards, on the horizon. The alliance ongoing development of Angus McCusker, execu- Biden's WWMD bracelet by David Fitzsimmons, The Arizona Star, Tucson, AZ is taking stock of all we our networks, partnerships tive director, Rochester/ have accomplished in the and friendships are vital to Randolph Area Sports Trail communities we represent the club’s success and to the Alliance

S.53: Needs to pass to support equality, period products should not be taxed from page 16 garter-belts, girdles, and committed to equity as we Winter, Morgan Marckres, hosiery, are tax-exempt, say we are, we will pass S.53 Merry Smith, Caitlin but necessities such as and begin to spare these Balon, Livia Ball, Lily period products are not, it Vermonters the shame and Merchant, Rachel Yandow, becomes glaringly obvious humiliation that comes with Elizabeth Messier, Maria who is writing the laws and a lack of period products. Hurn, Izzy Hopkins, Ella what their intent is for those Legislators in this state Newman, Ines Horozovic, who menstruate. When always talk about how they Elleanor Beaulieu, Mia costumes and lingerie are want young people to stay Phillips, Sydney Martin, tax-exempt but the products here. If you really mean that Molly Ardren, Amelia essential for our workforce you will make Vermont a Duffy, Alexandra Knight, participation and wellbeing place where we no longer Laura Shands, Lucy Ren- are not, we know that we are fear period poverty because aud, Trenton Sisters, Hazel not the priority. our government believes Fay, Paige Walker, Celia In Vermont, one in four that it is a luxury to have the McClintock, Faith Ploof, single mothers struggle care we need. Ella Skinner-Sloan, Olivia Tax Hike for the Rich by Monte Wolverton, Battle Ground, WA to meet their needs, and a Please afford us the Toomey, Evalin Pachman, recent study showed that respect, dignity, and op- Emma Boudreaux, Ali one in five teens struggle portunity we deserve by Stevens, Hannah Gilbert, to afford and purchase passing S.53. Madi Drew, Lisa Taki, menstrual supplies. These With urgency and insis- Rachel Bartholf, Avi Bauer, individuals are often the tence, Maddy Holcomb, Jemma backbone of our communi- Iris Hsiang, Fatima Brinker, Bryan House, Eliot ties and deserve better. We Khan, Zenavia Wilcox, Dy, Ellie Blackburn, Valen- deserve better. Tilly Krishna, Eva Frazier, tine Giesey, Claire Knowles, The lack of access to Cole Glider, Sofia Smith, Emma Roberge, Endrina period products affects an Sophia Clark, Gabe Grove- Biqkaj, Lucious Karki, individual’s ability to main- man, Tokitierata Ambo, Sarah Sciortino, Susannah tain a job and in turn earn Maia George, Sabina Bro- Smith, Amalia Iskanda- an income. If this state is as chu, Olivia Miller, Wade rova, Molly Caffry

Miles: A man who suffered shouldn't have died this young from page 16 and kind to all. He once Liquor finds its way to never gave up on him were had a pet named Bootsy destroy a beautiful soul. a saint as in Nicholas and the rabbit, soft and gentle His mother Mary the other given the name as he. loves him so, although of Angel at birth. They will Henry Miles used to roar his siblings were unkind always harbor memories sometimes due to the pain and unloving...shame on of this man for the rest of in his heart from too many them. He was like a leaf in their days. losses to mention. He the wind at times, but he He was loved. battled with the addiction never lost sight of the Lord. Angela Mitchell, Con- Test It First by Pat Byrnes, PoliticalCartoons.com that started in his youth. The only two persons that necticut The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 OPINION • 19

S.10: Unemployment tax will hurt the economy Wildlife: It's time Vermont updates its policies, practices for hunting to reflect values of most residents from page 17 from page 17 $1 billion in benefits Your focus on fulfilling board continues to allow bears to be hounded by packs of comes from the General Fund. But the largest share comes that was paid out in critical needs to help Ver- dogs even while cubs are still nursing. Today it is a board from federal taxes, the vast bulk of which are generated by 2020). mont’s job creators emerge that doesn’t even represent the interests of many hunters the sale of gas, pleasure craft, yachts and other products that Vermont was more fortu- from this historic economic and fishermen, much less the public. are unrelated to hunting and fishing. nate than most states as crisis is paramount — As the human footprint gets bigger, our economy, our cli- Vermonters sense these winds of change. In a recent poll our fund was overfinanced mitigate cost shocks and mate and our culture are all changing. Worldwide, wildlife the University of Vermont’s Center for Rural Studies asked: going into 2020, so al- long-term cost impacts populations have shrunk by two thirds in the last 50 years. “Should regulations that impact wildlife that is trapped, though we have a financial that will result from the Here in Vermont there are now 36 animals designated as en- hunted or fished be made by a volunteer board appointed hole to dig out of to ensure passage of S.10 as passed dangered and 16 animals designated as threatened. Our solvency of the Agency of Natural Resources says Vermont is losing over As technology evolves, “smart” rifles, UI fund, S.10 1,500 acres of “significant wildlife habitat” every year. As drones, GPS systems, radio collars proposes to dig Companies with fewer technology evolves, “smart” rifles, drones, GPS systems, a deeper hole. than 20 employees radio collars and live action trail cams make it even more and live action trail cams make it even What adds to imperative that we begin an open, transparent, and pub- the shock of the created the largest lic conversation about our rules concerning wildlife. more imperative that we begin an open, committee’s percentage of new jobs. I grew up in a Vermont family, steeped in Vermont’s transparent, and public conversation action on S.10 hunting and fishing tradition. Among genuine Vermont is that, just days hunters and fishermen (I should say fisherpeople -be about our rules concerning wildlife. ago, the federal government by the committee will hurt cause my wife fishes as much as I do), respect for the ani- announced a Covid relief already struggling Vermont mals whose lives we take to feed ourselves is the "Eleventh by the governor, or by professional staff from the Depart- package that will gener- businesses. Commandment," and wanton waste of wildlife is a cardinal ment of Fish and Wildlife?” The overwhelming majority ously provide Vermont with Passing legislation that sin. Whether we hunt, fish or just observe wildlife, almost all favored regulations established by the professional staff of more than $2.7 billion in will cost Vermont’s small Vermonters have an abiding appreciation for wildlife. We the Dept. of Fish & Wildlife. federal aid because of its businesses in excess of passed an endangered species act a year before the federal It is time for the fish and wildlife board to become advi- small state-status. $50 million at a time when government. According to data from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife sory, like other boards. The process for selecting members Prior to the pandemic, the federal government is Service the amount of time Vermonters spend hunting, fish- to serve on the board should be open and transparent. The small businesses provided about to release $2.7 billion board should reflect the diversity of all Vermonters, includ- 157,322 jobs in Vermont, in Covid recovery support The amount of time Vermonters ing the diversity within the angling and hunting commu- more than 60% of the state’s makes no sense. spend hunting, fishing and wildlife nity. It is time to recognize the need for new policies shaped workforce, according to the This bill does more harm by sound science, professional wildlife biologists, and the U.S. Small Business Admin- than good; therefore, we ask watching is second only to Alaskans. public interest. During the civil rights movement Phil Ochs istration. Companies with you to oppose S.10. sang, “What’s that I hear? It’s the sound of freedom calling. fewer than 20 employees cre- Sincerely, ing and wildlife watching is second only to Alaskans. It’s the sound of old ways falling.” Now it is also the sound ated the largest percentage of Shawn Shouldice, Even funding to support wildlife management is chang- of wildlife and wildlife habitat calling. Fortunately some new jobs. They may be small, Vermont state director ing. The sale of hunting and fishing licenses today accounts Vermont legislators are listening. but side by side they are an National Federation of Inde- for about a quarter of the state fish and wildlife budget. As David F. Kelley is a member of the board of the Vermont economic powerhouse. pendent Business/VT important as that contribution is, a similar amount now Wildlife Coalition.

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*Subject to availability and eligibility. Limit 2 per Vermont household and 6 per Vermont business. 20 • The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Celebrating shamrocks Right: Castleton Community Center volunteers Laurie Knauer, Gretiena Johnson, Ceil Hunt and Claire Park pack- aged 69 St. Patrick’s Day “dinners to-go” on Wednesday, March 17. The meal included a traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner with chocolate cake, and a Marie’s Cookie Kitchen handmade chocolate and mint truffle.

Bottom left: 3-year-old Harley Ruffle (a.k.a. @lihomie802) negotiates a box in Red's Backyard, part of the Woodward Killington network. The day after this photo was taken, he suffered his first rail induced fall, smashing his face. He's already back at it though, don't worry! Submitted

By Diane Chartrand Grace Congregational Church led the first annual ‘Crowley Irish Sing-along’. Traditional songs were sung in memory of Art Crowley. The event was inspired by the sing-a-long at the By Brooke Geery reception following his celebration of life in 2019. Over 50 singers were in attendance.

PFAS: Harmful chemicals in everyday products are hidden, Legislators look to ban some of the worst Civics: Local news benefits democracy from page 11 from page 16 ‘We’ve heard it before’ But Lyons said she was not interested in further narrow- school students coordinated by Ben Heintz and VTDigger is The American Chemical Council — representing the pro- ing the scope of the restrictions. The definition of PFAS has having similar success in generating content and engaging ducers of the chemicals — has been one of the bill’s opponents. already been narrowed. young people in reporting and storytelling. It says that, by banning a whole class of chemicals, the bill Support from businesses These projects have the added benefit of engaging young would ban some chemicals that are safe. Some companies in the state, like Seventh Generation, say people in Vermont communities, making connections, and In written testimony, Eileen Conneely, the council’s se- these restrictions are a good move for Vermont. Director of building social networks nior director for chemical products and technology, argued Sustainability and Authenticity Martin Wolf said the company that may keep them in Training the that all chemicals in that class “are not the same,” pointing wants to see the use of these chemicals stopped. Vermont. to “overwhelming evidence of safety when used as compo- “Once these chemicals get into the environment, as they Investments in these next generation nents of food packaging.” have with groundwater in Bennington, they are extremely dif- partnerships are also in- of fearless But Sen. Lyons said those arguments did not sway lawmak- ficult to get out,” said Wolf. vestments in the longevity ers. “We’ve heard it before,” she said. “A lot of it has to do with “If we are truly concerned about protecting children and our of Vermont news. Research and ethical trying to confuse folks who may not understand the chemical environment and avoiding the extraordinary cost of cleaning suggests that strong and industry or may not understand how the chemicals are used.” up these chemicals, it’s important to prevent them from being sustainable new outlets journalists can “The companies that manufacture these chemicals want to used in the first place,” he said. are leaning into their usher in a more continue being able to make and profit off of them,” Hierl said. According to a study by the Stern School of New York distinct strengths today by Inside the state, opposition has come from Associated University, companies with a clear environmental, sus- focusing on the hyperlo- civil future both Industries of Vermont, a member organization that primarily tainability or social progress mission are outpacing the cal coverage and analysis a local and represents manufacturers. Vice President William Driscoll said growth of conventional companies 5-to-1 on average. that larger outlets can’t the organization does not disclose its membership list. According to Wolf, Seventh Generation has been grow- and won’t provide; build- national level. “We don’t support the bill the way it’s written now,” ing at double-digit rates. ing strong websites that Driscoll said, including the ban on firefighting foams and “Consumers recognize the need for safer, more sustain- respond to local needs; and creating regular newsletters for the definition of packaging that he believes would affect able products,” he said. Retailers such as Lowes, Home their subscribers. products that have no contact with food. Depot, Ikea, Walmart and Target have already stopped This is a scalable model for other states. Training the next In a letter of opposition, Driscoll argued that the PFAS selling products that contain PFAS. generation of fearless and ethical journalists can usher in a ban would be overly broad and create “unnecessary un- “This is a really significant bill for our state,” said Sen. Lyons. more civil future both a local and national level. Most impor- certainty and unintended consequences for consumers, If signed into law, the bill would start going into effect in tantly, it can serve as an economic, creative and social engine retailers and other businesses.” 2022, with other sections going into effect as late as 2023. The here in Vermont. It’s a perfect fit for a state that has always Driscoll said that with some amendments, his organiza- senator said this timeline would allow the Department of been, and can continue to be, a leader in supporting civic life tion could support the bill. Health to identify alternative, non-harmful chemicals. and democratic engagement. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 • 21

Refugees: Gov. Scott hopes to welcome more new Americans to the state soon from page 2 about resettling Syrians in Vermont. Since taking office earlier this year, President Joe Biden has reversed Trump-era cutbacks in the refugee resettlement program, which resulted in a historic low of 15,000 admissions a year. The president has moved to admit 62,500 refugees by the end of September and another 125,000 the following year. Refugees in Rutland? In 2016, the State Department designated Rutland as a resettlement site for up to 100 Syr- ian refugees. The initiative — proposed by then-Mayor Christopher Louras and supported by the state’s congressional delegation — drew considerable local protest from a group called Rutland First. Others, organized under the banner of Rutland Welcomes, supported it. Ultimately, after Trump took office and issued executive orders stalling immigration efforts, only 14 refugees moved to the city. Louras, meanwhile, was defeated in his 2017 re- election campaign by David Allaire, a longtime city alderman who opposed the plan, arguing that the process In 2016, the State Department lacked transparency and input from designated Rutland as a the public. When Governor Scott was asked resettlement site for up to 100 whether he had heard back from Syrian refugees. the state department on Tuesday, March 23, he said: “We did receive a notice that they were very excited about us wanting to receive more refugees... Basically it was a fairly short acknowledgement. They said they would get back to us, so I think we’re on their radar.” Scott then went on explaining his call for a significant increase of refugees to Vermont. "We have our challenges here in Vermont and a number of different perspectives are de- mographics. We have an older population, a stagnant population — not a lot of diversity— and I believe that accepting more refugees would help us in every regard. So I’m looking forward to the possibly more refugees coming into Vermont. And we’ll do our best to welcome them," he said. When asked if he is worried about political pushback, similar to Rutland Mayor Louras, Scott said: “There is political risk with almost everything that I say and do, but this is being done for the right reasons and I believe that. I feel strongly that Vermont needs more diver- sity and we need to do our part to welcome those from war-torn countries and bring them into Vermont as new citizens, new Americans ... I just think we have a moral obligation to welcome them and make them part of Vermont. We certainly could use the help, too.” Polly Mikula contributed to this report. MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE ERA.com

KILLINGTON GRAND PENTHOUSE COMMERCIAL LAND KILLINGTON GRAND Killington’s Best Address Grand Hotel 137-IV Studio 1 bath 413 sf $29,000 Grand Hotel 252-III Studio 1 bath 413 sf $32,000 Grand Hotel 164-III 1 bedroom 2 baths 839 sf $43,000 on 2 floors Grand Hotel 241/ 2 bedroom 3 baths 1135 sf $52,000 243/139-I on 2 floors

2.17 acres Dreaming of becoming a Penthouse Owner? This is a very unique 2.17-acre parcel on This is your chance to become one of only 4-owners in this, the only 2-bedroom the Killington Road in the bustling Killington IS BUYER REPRESENTATION FOR YOU? Penthouse at the Killington Grand, Killington’s best slopeside address. This pent- Commercial District. It has over 360 feet of house stands out with a full-sized kitchen with a breakfast bar, a gas fireplace in road frontage with great sightlines, ideal for a Clients and customers are We have over 60 years of the living room, a personal in-unit sauna, a third-floor location with high ceilings business that wants good visibility. The drive- separated by one main differ- living and selling real estate and two spacious bedrooms. This penthouse sleeps 8 guests comfortably with way cut across the Town walkway is in place. ence — acontractual relation- in Killington. We know the ins northerly views over the 18th fairway of the Killington Golf Course. Access the Uses include: restaurant, nightclub, shops/ ship. When you sign a buyer’s and outs of buying in this mar- mountain from your personal ski lockers by a short walk across the sky-bridge to stores/offices, hotel, or ski lodge and residen- representation agreement with ket, what to look for and what the slopes. A myriad of amenities are available including Free Wireless Internet, tial: single family, two or multi-family. Public your REALTOR®, you become to watch out for. We know the Preston’s Restaurant & Lounge, a relaxing wood burning fireplace and valet park- sewer is at the lot boundary for easy hookup. their client and they are con- questions to ask and where to ing. The health club features weight and cardio equipment, sauna, steam room and Property is located halfway up the Killington tractually bound to act in your find the answers. an outdoor heated pool with two hot tubs and views of Killington. The Spa offers Road (the main access) on the way to the best interest and to represent a complete menu of skin, body and nail services. Individual treatments and pack- ski area. The property is in the heart of the you in a real estate transaction. ages are offered as well as a variety of spa products. An evening shuttle to dining commercial district. Up to 4 ERUs (sewer ca- and nightlife is offered in the winter. This is quarter-share ownership and the sale pacity) are available depending on sale price. Give us a call. We’d be happy to go over buyer is subject to a Right Of First Refusal. Contact us today to arrange a private showing. Contact us today to discuss the possibilities. Exclusively offered at $119,000. Exclusively offered at $450,000. representation with you.

Walter Findeisen 802-775-0340 • ERA.com 802-770-0093 (c) 1913 US Route 4, PO Box 137, Killington, VT 05751 Doug Quatchak Independently owned and operated 802-558-4645 (c) 22 • Calendar The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 “Virtual” Cheese Tasting MIXER Everyone Eats‑ Rutland 5 p.m. 4 p.m. The chamber is hosting a members-only Okemo Valley “Virtual” Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at the SEE CHANGE SESSIONS Cheese Tasting MIXER. Please RSVP at conta.cc/3f9om8z. Zoom ac- Vermont Farmer’s Food Center, 251 West St. in Rutland. First come, MARCH 24 & 25 cess info will be sent to those who pre-register. first served. Supporting Your Teen’s Career Search Everyone Eats‑ Chittenden 6:30 p.m. 4 p.m. Vermont Student Assistance Corp. will offer live virtual work- Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at North shops, led by local experts, who give you the how-to and Chittenden Grange Hall, 3 Lower Middle Rd., Chittenden. First come, answer your questions. Info: vsac.org/events/supporting-your- first served. teens-career-search. Everyone Eats‑ Killington Poetry at Bennington 4 p.m. 7 p.m. Free restaurant prepared meals served up at Mission Farm in Killington. Poets Philip Metres and Valzhyna Mort read from their First come, first served. recent poetry collections “Shrapnel Maps” and “Music for the Dead and Resurrected,” followed by a public Q&A. Info: Circle of Parents for Grandparents bennington.edu/events/poetry-bennington-philip-metres- 4 p.m. and-valzhyna-mort Meets weekly online. For information and to join a group contact Am- Book chat ber: [email protected], 802-498-0603 7 p.m. Drive‑Through Community Easter Egg Give‑Away Rutland Jewish Center invites all to discuss “A Room on the 5 p.m. Roof” by Savyon Librecht, a popular Israeli author. Via ZOOM; Virtual Meeting ID: 931 5989 5766; Passcode: 979446. Contact office@ At Brownsville Community Church. Limited to first 100 children. More event rutlandjawishcenter.org for a copy of the story. info: facebook.com/brownsvillecommunitychurch/. OHF Annual Meeting Su Al‑Anon and Alateen bm 7 p.m. 5:30 p.m. itted - A Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is also where Little Lambs Learn- Join OHF virtually as they review the past year’s successes and chal ing Center is located, 6 Church Hill Road in Rutland. lenges as well as welcome new board members and ambassador members to the team. Via Zoom. Email [email protected] for the link or WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24 visit our website ohfvt.org. THURSDAY, MARCH 25 Zoom Artist Talk See Change Sessions: ON SNW 6 p.m. all day Free Thursday Meditation 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. “Healing through the arts.” In this series, artists will be discussing the More than fifty industry-leading speakers including Yvon Chouinard, - healing aspects of the creative process and how creating contributes founder of Patagonia; Donna Carpenter, Owner & Chair of the Board At Eagles Nest Studio, 2363 US-RT4 in Killington. Please RSVP, 8 par to heal the emotional, psychological, and physiological wounds we ticipant limit to: (802) 356-2946 or email: [email protected]. of Burton Snowboards; Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet; have experienced. Each will talk for 10 minutes, we will close with a Danny Davis, Burton Team Rider; Ben Anderson, Co-CEO of B Lab time for questions. Join to hear personal stories from Fran Bull, Alexis US & Canada, and others will gather on March 24-25, 2021 at See Writers’ Workshop Kyriak, Sandy Mayo and Carolyn Shattuck. Please RSVP Info@ Change Sessions, a virtual summit at the intersection of climate action, 10 a.m. chaffeeartcenter.org or 802-775-0356, a link will then be emailed. sustainable entrepreneurship and winter mountain sports. Register at Are you working on your memoirs or an autobiography? If so, and seechangesessions.com. General Access passes $59 and All Access you’d like to meet people with similar interests to gain inspiration and passes $170 (via invitation or application only). feedback on your writing, please join us for an informal, multi-session Virtual Knit Knite 7 p.m. virtual writers’ group. Advanced registration is required. To register, DREAMers come in all sizes! please email Jennie Shurtleff at education@woodstockhistorycenter. Six Loose Ladies and friends host a knitting circle from Chester via 1 p.m. org. Workshops will include snippets from published autobiographies Zoom. More info available at facebook.com/events/973117296469197. written by local people and an opportunity to share your own work. Learn how to create a body-positive space, combat fat phobia, and address unrealistic body standards. Info: bennington.edu/events/ Adult Class ‑ Does the Soul Survive? dreamers-come-all-sizes. Circle of Parents 7:30 p.m. 10 a.m. Using the book Does the Soul Survive by Rabbi Elie Kaplan Spitz as Everyone Eats‑ Fair Haven Virtual. contact Cindy Atkins, Family Support Programs Coordinator, at our guide, we will explore Jewish belief in the afterlife, past lives, and 3 p.m. 802-498-0608 or [email protected]. living with purpose. 8 Week class from the Rutland Jewish Center through May 13. Please contact the RJC Office to register for the class Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at Fair Haven and obtain a zoom link. Grade School, 115 N Main St, Fair Haven, VT. Drive through pickup Story Hour online behind school. Coordinate by Friday before. 10 a.m. See Miss June’s virtual story time on The Rutland Free Library YouTube MARCH 26 Everyone Eats‑ Danby channel. FRIDAY, 3:30 p.m. Sixth Annual Vermont Animation Festival “Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at Smokey Tai Chi class virtual all day House Center, 426 Danby Mountain Rd, Danby. Pickup at Center, 10 a.m. Held virtually from March 26-28. A full slate of activities is planned coordinate with provider by Friday before. Often described as “meditation in motion,” it is a mind-body practice, for beginner and experienced animators, including workshops, a film originating in China as a martial art. This class is a fun, relaxing, and screening, and an artist talk by keynote speaker and Vermont-bred/ Everyone Eats‑ Chittenden enjoyable way to move with mindfulness and enjoy the comradery of Boston-based Experimental Animator Alan Jennings. Complete festival others while practicing. Call (802)773-1853 or emailaprilc@rutlandrec. information: VTAnimationFestival.org. 4 p.m. com for Zoom link. Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at Barstow Memorial School, 223 Chittenden Rd, Chittenden. First come, first served. Drive‑up pick up meals Calendar > 23 12 p.m. Everyone Eats‑ Rutland In place of the Meals on Wheels Congregate Meals, the Godnick Cen- ter, in partnership with Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging and 4 p.m. - Meals on Wheels, are providing drive-up pick-up meals on Mondays Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at the Ver and Thursdays at noon at the Godnick Center. If you are interested mont Farmer’s Food Center, 251 West St. in Rutland. First come, first in reserving a meal for pick-up please call 802-773-1853 and leave a served. message with your name and phone number. A suggested of donation of $3.50/meal picked-up, but donations in any amount are appreciated Chocolate Seder and not required. Under age 59, meals are $6 each. 4:30 p.m. JDS students are holding a model Seder. They will be serving all things chocolate -- chocolate matzah, chocolate eggs, chocolate and marsh- Knitting group virtual 1 p.m. mallow charoset, 4 cups of chocolate milk... Because of concern over Gather your knitting (or crochet) project and let’s come together sharing food, the Seder will be held over Zoom. Contact [email protected] for zoom link. virtually! We are trying anew way of gathering with our creative interests. Call (802)773-1853 or [email protected] for the Everyone Eats‑ Poultney Zoom Link. 5 p.m. Circle of Parents in Recovery Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at St. Ra- phael’s Catholic Church, 251 21 E. Main Street, Poultney. First come, 3 p.m. first served. Meets weekly online on Thursdays from 3-4:30 p.m. For information and to join a group contact Amber: [email protected], 802-498- DRIVE THRU EGG HUNT 0603 Everyone Eats‑ Shrewsbury AATT BROWNSVILLEBROWNSVILLE 5 p.m. NAMI Connection Peer Support Group Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at Shrews- CCOMMUNITYOMMUNITY CHURCHURCHCH bury Community Church. Coordinate with distribution partners by 3 p.m. Friday before. Have you been struggling with managing your mental health? NAMI Connection Peer Support Group can help. This is a free, 90-min- THURSDAY, MARCH 25 AT 5 P.M. ute recovery support group for people living with a mental health Su bm condition. For more specific information, visit namivt.org/support/peer- itted support-groups/. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 CALENDAR • 23

Palm Sunday Service PPASSOVERASSOVER CELEBRCELEBRATIONATION 9:30 a.m. HOOSTEDSTED BBYY At Brownville Community Church. More info: facebook.com/brownsvil- [MUSIC Scene] WOODSTOCKWOODSTOCK AREA lecommunitychurch/. JEWISH COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY By DJ Dave Hoffenberg MARCH 29 Listings for March 24 - 30 (All listings subject to state SATURDAY, MARCH 27 AT 6 P.M. MONDAY, regulations which require reservations plus some are weather CCV Spring 2021 Virtual Career Fair permitting, so please call ahead.) all day Meet job seekers live via video conferencing for open group 4 p.m. Nite Spot Pizza – Duane information sessions and individual applicants you have selected WED. Carleton for interviews, through April 2. For more info collegecentral. com/CCNEngine/LiveEvents/LiveEvents.cfm?EventID=5340 or MARCH 24 5 p.m. Jax Food & Games – The contact [email protected] or 833-528-7468. Idiots LUDLOW Maker Monday 6 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub – 10:30 a.m. 6 p.m. Super Stash Bros.

A quick stop at Fletcher Memorial Library is all you need to pick up Du Jour VT – Jim Yeager a free Maker Monday STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and 6 p.m. The Foundry – Jenny Math) Grab & Go bag. Each bag contains directions and supplies QUECHEE Porter to complete a unique and fun project. These kits may contain small Virtual pieces and are best suited for ages 5 & up. event 5 p.m. The Public House – Kim LUDLOW Wilcox and Guest Drive‑up pick up meals 6 p.m. Du Jour VT – King Arthur 12 p.m. In place of the Meals on Wheels Congregate Meals, the Godnick Cen- THURS. RUTLAND ter, in partnership with Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging and Meals on Wheels, are providing drive-up pick-up meals on Mondays 5:30 p.m. Roots Restaurant – and Thursdays at noon at the Godnick Center. If you are interested MARCH 25 Submitted Ryan Fuller in reserving a meal for pick-up please call 802-773-1853 and leave a message with your name and phone number. A suggested of donation KILLINGTON Calendar: Email [email protected] of $3.50/meal picked-up, but donations in any amount are appreciated SOUTH POMFRET from page 22 and not required. Under age 59, meals are $6 each. 4 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub – Duane Carleton 8 p.m. Artistree Community Arts Coffee talk virtual Center - Colin Mochrie & Brad 9:30 a.m. Nurturing Skills for Families in Recovery 5 p.m. The Foundry – Jenny Sherwood: Stream of Conscious- 1 p.m. Let’s connect and catch-up with friends. Talk about what is going on, Porter ness (Virtual) share stories, or we can test out some table topics for meaningful Meets weekly online on Mondays from 1 –2 p.m. For information and conversation prompts. Call (802)773-1853 or email aprilc@rutlandrec. to join a group contact Amber: [email protected], 802-498-0603 6 p.m. Nite Spot Pizza – Acoustik com for Zoom link. Ruckus Everyone Eats‑ Rutland SUN. Music for Days Like This 4 p.m. LUDLOW MARCH 28 all day Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at the Vermont Farmer’s Food Center, 251 West St. in Rutland. First come, Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s Music for Days Like This virtual 6 p.m. Du Jour VT – BYO(Damn) KILLINGTON concert series. This performance, hosted by poet Reuben Jackson, first served. Mic: Open Mic focuses on art by BIPOC individuals in a variety of media — visual art, 5 p.m. Jax Food & Games – poetry and of course, music. It also features two premiere VSO com- Everyone Eats‑ Proctor PROCTORSVILLE Jenny Porter missions, and special poetry readings by U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove. 5:15 p.m. Available until April 2. vso.org/event/music-for-days-like-this3/ Free restaurant prepared meals served up drive-thru style at the Proc- 5 p.m. Neal’s Restaurant & Bar – 5 p.m. Nite Spot Pizza – Sister tor Library. 4 Main St, Proctor. First come, first served. Sammy B Outlaw

5 p.m. The Foundry – Sammy B NAMI Connection Peer Support Group MARCH 27 7 p.m. SATURDAY, FRI. 6 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub – Not Have you been struggling with managing your mental health? NAMI Quite Dead Sundays with Acous- Cars and Coffee Connection Peer Support Group can help. This is a free, 90-minute MARCH 26 tik Ruckus 7 a.m. recovery support group for people living with a mental health condition. Enjoy a cup up of coffee, look at cars and show off your own at Forest For more specific information, visit namivt.org/support/peer-support- KILLINGTON Dale Grocery in Brandon. groups/ or contact Nick Martin at [email protected]. PROCTORSVILLE 5 p.m. The Foundry – Jenny Live Zoom artists talk Porter 5 p.m. Neal’s Restaurant & Bar – 6 p.m. TUESDAY, MARCH 30 King Arthur Junior Christine Hauck, Ellen Keene, Amanda Sisk, and Heather Szczepi- 6 p.m. Jax Food & Games – Ryan orkowski speak virtually courtesy AVA Gallery. Visit avagallery.org for Northlands Job Corps Center Virtual Tour Fuller information on access to live Zoom artist talks and recordings. All day MON. Job Corps can be a viable training opportunity for many young adults 6 p.m. Moguls Sports Pub – Zoom Passover Seder in your community. Northlands Job Corps Center currently offers Chris Pallutto MARCH 29 career technical training in Automotive, Culinary Arts, Office Adminis- 6 p.m. 6 p.m. Nite Spot Pizza – Super The WAJC/Shir Shalom Seder will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March tration, Urban Forestry, Building & Construction, Certified Medical As- KILLINGTON sistant and Welding. An advanced Welding program is another exciting Stash Bros 27, led by Rabbi Haigh. Zoom link and phone instructions can be found at shirshalomvt.org, or by calling (802) 457-4840. opportunity offered for our Welding graduates. Job Corps continues to 4 p.m. Jax Food & Games Patio – offer high school diploma, driver’s education and the opportunity for 6 p.m. Pickle Barrel Nightclub – Tony Lee Thomas a student, 16-24, to attend college classes at CCV, all in a residential Jamie Passover Seder setting. 6:15 p.m. PROCTORSVILLE LUDLOW Rabbi Shemtov will be using the ‘Promise of the Land’ for Passover Haggadah. She is encouraging those planning on attending the Seder Knitting and more 5 p.m. Neal’s Restaurant & Bar – - 12:30 p.m. 6 p.m. Du Jour VT – Eric King to purchase a copy. It is available in a Kindle version and can be pur Want to knit or crochet with a group? Come join at Godnick Adult Sammy B chased on Amazon. Via Zoom; Meeting ID: 870 5708 4521; Passcode: 106167. Center on Tuesday afternoons at 12:30 pm. Meet new friends, work on QUECHEE personal projects, and help with new ones. 802-773-1822. TUES. “Live & In” 5:30 p.m. Public House – Sammy B 7 p.m. Everyone Eats‑ Killington MARCH 30 Chandler Center for the Arts hosts Lissa Schneckenburger and Corey 4 p.m. RUTLAND Dimaro. Info: facebook.com/ChandlerArts/ Free restaurant-prepared meals available for those in need. First come, KILLINGTON first served. 5:30 p.m. Roots Restaurant – Stream of Consciousness Aaron Audet 4 p.m. Jax Food & Games Patio – 8 p.m. Circle of Parents in Recovery Tony Lee Thomas 5:30 p.m. Improv Legends and Whose Line Is It Anyway? Veterans Colin Mochrie Virtual. Contact Cindy Atkins, Family Support Programs Coordinator, at & Brad Sherwood Unleash a Wild, Comedic Ride with Stream of Con- SAT. LUDLOW sciousness, Where the Audience is in the Driver’s Seat, LIVE via Zoom! 802-498-0608 or [email protected] $35. artistreevt.org. MARCH 27 7 p.m. Du Jour VT – Chris White Scholarships—Free Money 6:30 p.m. CASTLETON QUECHEE SUNDAY, MARCH 28 Vermont Student Assistance Corp. will offer live virtual workshops, led by local experts, who give you the how-to and answer your questions. 6 p.m. Ice House Bar & Grill – 5 p.m. The Public House – Jim Aaron Audet RSVP Bone Builders vsac.org/events/scholarships-free-money. Yeager and Friends 9 a.m. An Osteo Exercise Program on Mon./Wed. mornings at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. KILLINGTON and 5:30 p.m. and Tues./Thurs. at 3:30 p.m. This is a free program through RSVP at the Godnick Adult Center. Please bring with you is a 2 p.m. Jax Food & Games – bottle of water. The weights are provided. Call to RSVP at 775-8220. Jenny Porter 24 • LivingADE The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 This week’s living Arts, Dining and Entertainment!

k k k c c c i i i l l l u u u G G G n n n o o o v v v e e e D D D y y y B B B r. r. r. io io io en un un r, s , j y, j ble on rac Lucas Am Owen Crossm Bode T KMS students rip Woodward Killington’s Dream Maker park By Brooke Geery At Killington Mountain School, you can get an education, but more importantly, you can get on snow nearly every day. Woodward Killing- ton’s miles of freeriding and terrain parks offer an exceptional training facility for those who want to im- prove their skills, or just have fun! One of the favorite parks of many students is the park on Dream Maker. Featuring the largest features the resort has to offer, students from all grade levels can be found ripping the massive rails and kickers on any given afternoon, with KMS Snow- board Program Director Devon Gulick and his camera in tow. It’s not a bad way to live. We would like to offer this warn- ing though: the resulting images By Devon Gulick may make you want to drop every- Snowboarders chase each other on the wooden rails By Devon Gulick thing and hit the slopes. in “The Stash.” Rocco Jones, 8th grader The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LIVING ADE • 25

Submitted Alpine Bike Works sponsors mountain biking girls’ club Local business and all girls club team up to grow Rutland’s mountain biking community Alpine Bike Works is proud to announce its sponsorship munity through our Liv Ambassador Program partnership that one of the biggest benefits of getting the girls together in of the Gritty Girls Mountain Bike Club with a donation of by sponsoring local athletes such as Carrie Pill.” Pill is a local a supportive, team-based environment is that it helps with $1,500 and two new Giant youth mountain bikes. artist and active member of Rutland’s growing mountain “building self-confidence.” The Gritty Girls events take place at the Rutland Recre- biking community. “Carrie brings so much to the table,” Tony Gritty Girls is a spin-off of the Youth Mountain Bike ation Community Center. The website of the community continues, “in the form of organizing local women’s rides, Club. After a hiatus due to Covid-19, they plan to start center states that the Gritty Girls is “a girls’ mountain bike participating in programs such as the Gritty Girls, and gener- riding late this April. The team has also hosted related club that encourages and promotes confidence, knowledge ally keeping the women’s cycling stoke high in our area!” activities in the past, such as bringing in nutrition and and basic skills in a supportive team environment through The Killington, Vermont-based bike shop also plans to fitness instructors, as well as hosting a squirt gun biathlon. games, group rides, and fun challenges.” The first group provide long-term support to the Gritty Girls program by The Gritty Girls team is led by Shelley Lutz, April Hayden, event begins on April 28 and runs from 1-3 p.m. providing service clinics for bike repair and maintenance, Peggy Shinn, and Pam Trainer. “Supporting the local female cycling community is impor- as well as providing an on-site mechanic for events. To learn more about the Rutland Recreation Community tant to us, and the Gritty Girls program is aligned with our Shelley Lutz, one of the leaders of the Gritty Girls team, Center, visit rutlandrec.com/communitycenter. core values,” says Tony Accurso, owner of Alpine Bike Works. said the mission of the Gritty Girls is really all about “having For those interested in donating to the program, or to learn “Our company supports the regional women’s cycling com- fun. It’s about getting the girls outdoors.” She went on to say more about sponsorship, contact [email protected]. Tips for 2021 graduates to prepare for a fiercely competitive job market

Colleges may return to normalcy in a few months as the rollout of Covid-19 vaccines contin- have been active outside the classroom as well — in clubs, the community, volunteer work, ues. Meanwhile, in sharp contrast to that positive news, millions of college students will graduate etc. All of these aspects are part of your brand. Also, the new litmus test in the job market will be, this spring facing bleak employment prospects, says Vince Thompson (meltatl.com), founder ‘What did you do to improve yourself and others during Covid? Or did you do nothing and feel and CEO of the marketing agency MELT and author of “Building Brand You: How To Use Your Col- sorry for yourself?’ Employers are going to be looking for those intangibles.” lege Experience To Find And Win Your First Job.” Organize your marketing playbook. “Utilizing a complete marketing playbook means lever- The Covid-19 pandemic caused unemployment to soar in 2020 and is expected to affect the job aging your abilities and interests on social media platforms,” Thompson said. “This is where you market for graduates again this year. Some labor analysts see the pandemic perhaps having display your public brand. Your profile, posts, photos, and videos reflect what you’re about. It’s this ripple effect on graduates for years to come. These sobering trends are why students should key that your presentation and message are consistent on each platform that you use.” expand their preparation for the job market and know what action steps they need to take. Expand your networking. “Today, about 75 % of new hires happen through networking,” “Thanks to Covid-19, if you’re in college right now or recently graduated, you’re Thompson said. “Build a target list of people to contact at companies that are hiring. Join discus- facing the toughest job market in our lifetime,” Thompson said. “With so many people sion groups on LinkedIn that can expand your contacts and your knowledge. Connect with unemployed and displaced, people will be willing to take a lesser job for a lesser salary thought leaders and ask them questions to gain insight.” just to get back in the market. Upskill. “Companies want young people who are versatile and able to learn new skills quick- “To use a fishing analogy, it’s going to take a lot of casts to get a few bites for interviews ly,” Thompson said. “Research skills required in fields that you’re pursuing and get credentialed and ultimately land the job. But don’t let that discourage you. Instead, let it inspire you through online training programs. If opportunities are far fewer in your chosen field, research to grow and learn what you need to know to set yourself apart from other candidates. It’s where your best skills apply in other industries.” all about positioning yourself by building your resume, brand, and your network. And Prepare for virtual interviewing. “When you interview in person, your body language, being enthusiastic about the process.” enthusiasm, handshake and small talk help build a connection with the interviewer,” Thompson Thompson suggests the following tips for soon-to-be graduates as they prepare for a said. “Being interviewed on a screen demands that you be fully engaged, establish a rapport, fiercely competitive job market: have continual eye contact and express yourself clearly.” Build your brand. The job market is so competitive that companies are looking for far more “How you stand out from the crowd has always been the differentiator in hiring,” Thompson than candidates with a high GPA. “Hiring managers often seek well-rounded young people who said. “It’s much a bigger crowd now for fewer jobs, so the importance of preparation in all facets can communicate, collaborate and create,” Thompson said. “They’re looking for people who has never been more important.” 26 • LIVING ADE The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Woodstock Area Jewish Easter Week Services 2021 Community welcomes all to its live streamed and in-person at online Passover celebration Brownsville Community Church Saturday, March 27 at 6 p.m.—WOOD- with the help of English translations. BROWNSVILLE—People from near and far are accessing the Brownsville Community STOCK—The Woodstock Area Jewish As the evening begins, the first foods that Church Sunday services via the church’s Facebook page where the services are posted live Community/Shir Shalom Congregation will be eaten are those that relate directly to and they welcome all to join at facebook.com/brownsvillecommunitychurch/. has announced an open invitation to the the questions the children have asked. The church has announced its Easter Week services, which begin Thursday, March 25. public to attend the synagogue’s second There is matzoh instead of bread because • On March 25 from 5 - 6 p.m., there will be a drive-through community Easter egg online Passover celebration, when Jews Jews left Egypt too quickly to give their give-away for the first 100 children. join those around the world to retell the dough time to rise. Horseradish is on the • On Sunday, March 28 is the Palm Sunday service at 9:30 a.m. Biblical story of the Exodus. table to represent the bitter taste of slavery, • On Thursday, April 1 at 6:30 p.m. there will be a Maundy Thursday service. Every seder recalls the bitterness of slav- and the sweetness of freedom comes from • A Good Friday Stations of the Cross service will take place on April 2 at 2:30 p.m. ery and the joy of liberation in myriad ways charoset (say “ha-row’-set”), a delicious • Sunday Sunrise service on April 4 will start at 8:30 a.m. with an outdoor service at both serious and fun, with a mix of silliness chopped concoction of apples, walnuts and Ascutney Outdoors. and singing, storytelling and poignant red wine, sometimes with dried apricots The Easter Sunday service follows at 9:30 a.m. at the church. Seating will be handled on discussions. There is also a game of hide and figs, too. When the bitter and sweet a first-come, first-serve basis and overflow will be accommodated in the fellowship hall and seek near the end as children search tastes are eaten together on a portion of with the service live-streamed on a large screen. Masks and social distancing are required for a piece of hidden matzoh. matzoh, it’s called a Hillel Sandwich. at all services for now. According to Pastor Christian, “The church has weathered storms Shir Shalom’s Rabbi Ilene Harkavy Haigh There’s one more ingredient that’s throughout its history. This one is no different. It challenges us to find new ways to connect treasures the songs and silliness, but she said required, enough wine or grape juice for and to be the hands and feet of Christ to our community.” the seriousness of Shir Shalom’s 2021 seder four prayers that are part of the readings The weekly Sunday services that start at 9:30 a.m. will continue to be available live online will derive from revelations that have become throughout the evening. for the foreseeable future. Those who would like to view past services can view them on the undeniably clear during the past year. She In North America, chicken soup with mat- same BCC Facebook page. will ask congregation members and guests to zoh balls usually starts the meal after much To access past Sunday morning, Wednesday evening Compline, holiday, praise & prayer consider the relationships the pandemic laid of the storytelling is done, when everyone is and evensong services, please go to the BCC Facebook page facebook.com/brownsville- bare between racism and oppression. good and hungry. Entrees can be anything communitychurch. “As we approach this time of remember- other than pork or shellfish (both forbidden Anyone who would like to receive Sunday Service information weekly and/or special church ing our own story of liberation, we align our by Jewish kosher laws) so roast chicken, beef announcements, can email [email protected] to be included on the list of recipients. hearts with those for whom the COVID exile brisket or a vegetarian dish are common, The Brownsville Community Church is located ta 66 Brownsville-Hartland Road, between has been truly challenging,” Rabbi Haigh with any choice of vegetables. There are Albert Bridge School and the Brownsville town hall. explained. “May this Passover remind us what usually lots of desserts to go along with songs it means to be free, and to and games at the end of the meal, including synchronize our hearts Virtual with those who might be event Mount Holly biodiversity project less free due to the color of their skin or their access welcomes spring to health care.” Since mid-January when the project began, Mount Holly residents and visitors have Passover seders, part holiday been sending in their observations to a project that aims to build an inventory of all living meals and part retelling of the lib- things in the town of Mount Holly. It’s built on the free iNaturalist software so also helps you eration from slavery in Egypt, are identify almost anything you see in nature. As of March 21, there have been 1,278 obser- Judaism’s most popular tradition, vations submitted and 587 species of plants, animals, and fungi identified by 97 observ- celebrated by families and friends ers. That’s 28 new species added in March. Already 28 volunteers have joined the project in keeping with the Biblical and spring has just begun. The project is free, open to the public, and everyone is invited to requirement that Jews must pass check out the progress at inaturalist.org/projects/mount-holly-biodiversity. the story on to their children. Your observations will help. Using iNaturalist on your smart phone or computer, As every seder begins, the every time you see a bird, a plant, or a wild animal in Mount Holly iNaturalist will help youngest child—sometimes all children fresh or dried fruit, candies, and apple, you identify it and then submit it to our community project. All you do is take a photo present—become the center of attention chocolate or sponge cakes. Since flour on your smart phone or digital camera, submit it to iNaturalist, and the program gives when they introduce “The Four Questions” and baking soda are forbidden, the cakes you the probable identification and gives you credit for the observation! Can you guess by asking, “Why is this night different from are made with matzoh meal and lots of the most common species found in Mount Holly? all other nights?” From that moment on, beaten egg whites to get them to rise. Ready to give it a try? Download the free app to your smart phone from the Google the seder is about answering the questions, Larger supermarkets in the Upper Val- Play Store or Apple App Store. Once downloaded, navigate to help in the drop-down explaining why everyone has gathered for ley nearly all carry matzoh, matzoh ball menu and follow the illustrated instructions for getting started or watch the video a special meal created around the issues of mixes, Passover candies and cake mixes, tutorial. Your smart phone is now your easiest tool to learn the names of the plants & bondage and freedom. and for do-it-yourselfers, there are lots of animals that you find and to support our town project. Why, for instance, do people make their Passover recipes online. How can you join? Once you have the app on your smart phone you can join the Mount seats especially comfortable? Why is there But with all the fun of preparation Holly Biodiversity project. When you open the app on your phone or go to our project web- matzoh instead of bread? Why do partici- and exploration, Rabbi Haigh hopes that page on your computer (inaturalist.org/projects/mount-holly-biodiversity) click on “Join pants dip greens in salt water and eat foods Jewish community members and guests Project” just above the green “About” square of text describing the project. Once you have that are bitter and sweet? alike will remember that Passover has its joined the project your observations will automatically be submitted to our town’s ecologi- Before the pandemic, when the Shir underlying serious purpose. cal inventory, plus you will receive occasional news and updates about the project. The Shalom community gathered in the syna- “We have become more aware this year of project webpage also shows you who has the most species, how many species have been gogue, congregants shared a multi-course the pressing issues of racism and exile and we found, lists the most frequently seen species, and provides an interactive map of Mount pot-luck Passover meal that included are more keenly aware of what true freedom Holly showing where all the observations have been recorded. recipes that go back countless generations. means,” said Rabbi Haigh. “We will celebrate As Mud Season turns into spring there will be an explosion of wildflowers, birds, This year, of course, participants will make our blessings, deepen our connection to one insects, amphibians and more. New birds seen in town this past weekend include their own dinners at home and, if they another, hold each other in our challenges, bluebirds, robins, red-winged blackbirds, and dark-eyed juncos. If you’ve seen these want, prepare a few symbolic foods before and share the joy of living in this extraordi- or others, iNaturalist wants to know. they make the Zoom connection. narily beautiful place.” This is a great outdoor family activity and a wonderful way to teach children about na- Everyone will be able to participate The WAJC/Shir Shalom seder will begin ture. This is “citizen science” at its best. We hope you will enjoy using iNaturalist to learn the since readings and songs from a Passover at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 27, led by Rabbi names of the plants and animals you find and join us in learning more about the amazing booklet, called a “Hagaddah,” will be Haigh. Zoom link and phone instructions can natural biodiversity of Mount Holly. The project is sponsored by the Mount Holly Con- shown on beautifully illustrated slides. be found at shirshalomvt.org, or by calling servation Trust and the Mount Holly Conservation Commission. If you would like some Even Hebrew prayers will be easy to follow (802) 457-4840. assistance getting started or have questions, call Jim at 802-259-2311. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LIVING ADE • 27 Chandler Center for the Arts collaborates with No Strings Marionette Company An opportunity for the community to learn puppet-making as well as craft a star character for the upcoming puppet performance of ‘How Chipmunk Got His Stripes’

It began on a Zoom Talk Back after Chan- taking care of feeding stations in the woods all dler’s presentation of No Strings Marionette around our cabin, which is in the midst of one Company’s filmed production of “Treasure of our two family nature preserves. Just today I Hunt” back in November. One of the children counted 40 turkeys, 30 deer, and innumerable on the Zoom call suggested that they would other wild friends availing themselves of our like to make puppets such as the ones in hospitality,” Bruchac said. the show. Karen Dillon, executive director The story (which Chandler and No Strings of Chandler, and Barbara Paulson and Dan received permission to adapt) is titled, “How Baginski of No Strings Marionette Company, Chipmunk Got His Stripes,” and it seems begin to mull this over. How to create a Covid- to come from the Bruchac’s deep relation- safe collaboration with the local community? ship with nature, grounded in our present And what story should the puppet perfor- moment. Dillon, Paulson and Baginski were mance tell? excited by the story structure, which is a tale After a few discussions and a consultation of anticipation about the future. It features with Courtney Bowen, children’s librarian two primary characters, but there is an entire at Kimball Library, they decided that they social network in the story of many other forest wished to tell an indigenous story. All felt that animals who bear witness to their rivalry. It Submitted this year it was especially important to create was this aspect of the story that was most im- a space for indigenous voices and Native portant for this project. The original impulse the show. The final performance will be filmed pets, props and scenery for the project, perspectives. They all chose a few favorite was to encourage community participation by and there is hope that the final product will be and in return the project will be infused indigenous tales, most of which ended up be- asking the audience to create all these unique able to be screened publicly later in the sum- with a celebration of each participant’s ing penned by the renowned Abenaki author, animal puppets, which would then be used in mer (depending on Covid guidelines). It can own creative style and voice. Joseph Bruchac. the final performance to give voice to the com- also be streamed. Paulson mused, “Each puppet’s indi- When Dillon reached out to Bruchac, she munity’s ideas about what the future holds. Getting training and the opportunity to vidual flair will reflect how the individual was able to offer him a modest royalty for the Once the rights were agreed upon the work with professional puppeteers may be qualities we all possess combine to make use of one of his book’s storylines because schedule and format was set. an unexpected upside to the pandemic. Pup- a diverse social fabric. We will unite to of a grant from the Vermont Community A call for puppet-making collaborators is peteers Dan Baginski and Barbara Paulson celebrate and value each others’ unique Fund given to support Chandler’s work with happening now. Those who want to make a are usually found in the studio creating every qualities as they enrich the story in ways we children and families. He agreed to this use, puppet for the show can fill out a registration aspect of their puppet shows. Marionettes, never could have dreamed of. We couldn’t adding, “ I have always enjoyed working with form on the Chandler website at chandler- props, scenery and scripts would normally be part of this without you.” Baginski added, regional arts Centers and I am a big fan of pup- arts.org. Participants will get to choose an head out on the road and gleefully interact “We will share tips learned from a lifetime of pet theater.” animal character to create and will be shipped with live audiences. trial and error making our own puppets!” The Bruchac family also founded two na- a puppet-making kit to use. The puppeteers Limited to virtual performances These puppeteers are excited about ture preserves. One is a public facing venture will then provide a series of online video work- during Covid, the pair has both reason sharing their skills and enthusiasm with this called the Nadakinna Education Center in shops and a few Zoom Q&A sessions to craft and opportunity to explore alternative growing puppet community. Check out No Greenfield Center, New York. Nadakinna their puppets. Once the puppets are finished, meaningful ways to connect with people Strings on their Facebook page: offers nature and native education in an they will be shipped back to Chandler where through a shared artistic experience. With Looking forward to audience involve- outdoor, wilderness setting and keeps the there will be a short exhibition for all to see the “Chipmunk” project the potential ment. Families can sign up to collaborate Bruchacs very busy. the completed characters. Then the puppe- audience shares in the excitement of the and there are dozens of characters available. “My wife and I are wildlife rehabilitators teers will do their magic and transform these creative journey. The pair will help par- Info and signup is available at and we spend quite a bit of time each day sedentary sets of strings into an active cast for ticipants make professional quality pup- Chandler-arts.org. Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Music for Days Like This’ Annual features BIPOC art in multimedia concert format harvest March performance to combine poetry and visual art with classical and jazz music fest dinner Saturday, March 27 at 7:30 p.m.—VERMONT — On March 27 at 7:30 the concert. scheduled p.m., the Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) will premiere the third In addition to the two world premiere commissions, compositions by installment of its online concert series: “Music for Days Like This.” Florence Price, Matthew Evan Taylor, Dorothy Rudd Moore, and Scott for October Hosted by poet Reuben Jackson, attendees will experience a unique Joplin, among others, will fill out this not-to-be-missed multimedia pro- combination of classical and jazz music, visual art and poetry gram curated by VSO’s Creative Projects Chair Matt LaRocca. Vermont Farmers’ by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) artists — As an early look at the show, on March 18 the VSO will Food Center will make its including special readings by Pulitzer Prize winner and U.S. host an informational webinar to discuss the intersection triumphant post-Covid Poet Laureate Rita Dove. Two VSO commissioned pieces of music, poetry and visual art among Black and Brown return on Sunday. Oct. 3. will also be premiered — one composed by University March artists. Reuben Jackson hosts, accompanied by musician from 4-7 p.m. It’s not too of Vermont music faculty member and renowned jazz Ray Vega and visual artists Julio Desmont, Crystal Stokes early to grab your tickets trumpeter Ray Vega, and one by Carlos Simon, recipient and Alan Blackwell. at vermontfarmersfood- of the 2021 Sphinx Medal of Excellence. 27 Tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can sliding center.org, and you can As a series, “Music for Days Like This” interweaves the scale starting at $5, and will be accessible March 27 at 7:30 also visit that site for more traditional with the unexpected, and features newly com- p.m. through April 3, 2021. For more details and tickets, informa- missioned music from female composers, Black composers, please visit vso.org/events. Closed captioning will be available tion. and composers under the age of 20, intertwined with works from for any spoken portions; please indicate if you are interested in Oct. more traditionally performed composers. For this installment, the VSO closed captioning at check-out. This season is made possible in part by is elevating the works of Vermont-based BIPOC-identifying artists, with the Northfield Savings Bank Innovation Fund, and this concert is sup- visual art pieces by Crystal Stokes of Worcester, Julio Desmont of Bur- ported by a grant from the Vermont Humanities Council and sponsored 3 lington, and Alan Blackwell of Brattleboro to be projected throughout by Copperleaf Financial and Davis & Hodgdon. 28 • LIVING ADE The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Southern Vermont Arts Center presents Art from the Schools

SVAC is pleased to announce that its such a beautiful venue!” said Long Trail annual Art from the Schools exhibition School Arts Department Chair, Anharad will take place in the Elizabeth de C. Llewelyn. Wilson galleries from March 20 - April SVAC’s galleries will be filled with 22, 2021. SVAC is thrilled to be hosting drawings, paintings, and sculpture by this exhibition in per- students from these area schools: son after having to go • Arlington Memorial Middle/ virtual in 2020. Began High School Art from the March • Burr and Burton Academy Schools is South- • Currier Memorial School ern Vermont Arts • Fisher Elementary School Center’s celebra- 20 • Homeschoolers tion of student art • Long Trail School from around southern • Manchester Elementary Middle Vermont. Not only does School this project allow students • Maple Street School the incredible learning experience of • Mountain School at Winhall presenting in a real art gallery, but it • Northshire Day School Courtesy of SVAC brings our guests the joy of seeing the • Red Fox Community School (Above) Long Trail School IB students in the SVAC vibrant, colorful creativity of young • Shaftsbury Elementary School galleries artists at work. “We are so thrilled that • Village School of North Ben- our students get to show their art in nington (Left) ‘Greenhouse’ by Jaden Bauch Vermont author Bob Pierce joins USS CCV holds virtual career fair Vermont March 29-April 2—The Community College of Vermont’s spring 2021 virtual career fair support group with donation will be held March 29 - April 2. While this event is virtual, it has all the advantages of an on-campus fair plus the flexibility to ship’s library to work around your schedule. You’ll be able to meet job seekers live via video conferencing for Best-selling author Bob Pierce has joined plaques and, of course, maple syrup. A special, open group information sessions and individual applicants you have selected for interviews. with numerous other Vermonters to support bark-textured silver pitcher was presented to If you already have a College Central Network account at CCV, simply log in and reg- and encourage the officers and crew of the the Vermont’s galley for maple syrup that will ister for the career fair. If you are new to our job board, you’ll need to create an account. USS Vermont (SSN 792) and their families serve the crew for the life of the boat. Once your registration is approved, you can share documents and videos, link your cal- with products, crafts and specialty foods made Author Bob Pierce has donated copies of endar and video conferencing services for easy interview scheduling, and post specific in Vermont. His donation of signed copies of seven of his most recent titles including “Sol- job and internship opportunities. seven of his dozen action-adventure titles will diers Statesmen Thieves & Spies,” “One Kill: For more information, visit the CCV Spring 2021 Virtual Career Fair website. Alternative- be donated to the ship’s library to be enjoyed Hunting Lilith,” “Pieces,” “Projekt Sixteen,” ly, you can reach our Career Services department directly by contacting Anja and Tammy at: by members of the ship’s crew through the and “The Wampus Got Him!” The collec- [email protected] or 833-528-7468. USS Vermont Support Group. tion of books were given to VSC president The VSG is an organization of Vermont Gary Frymire along with a personal note of individuals, businesses and volunteers encouragement from the author. Frymire whose mission is to support the morale and will include them with other donations from Pittsfield library welcomes well-being of all those who serve on board, the VSG and conduct them to the sub base to build relationships between the state of in New London (Groton), Connecticut to new librarian Vermont and the crew of the USS Vermont present to the crew. Copies of Bob’s newest and educate the people of the state about project, “Blood on the Moskva, a Murder of On March 2, 2021, the Roger Clark Me- RCML is also offering curbside service by the boat and its mission. No Consequence” will also be donated upon morial Library board of trustees welcomed calling 802-746-4067 or emailing pittsfield- TheUSS Vermont is the latest in the its release later this summer. new librarian Ariel Pascoe. [email protected]. Follow the library on newest series of Virginia-class fast-attack More information about the USS Vermont Pascoe’s career began as a children’s Facebook or visit pittsfieldlibrary.com to view submarines and the first of the most recent Support Group can be found at ussver- librarian. “I am excited to be able to continue the collection and to access great services like design upgrade. The role of the Navy’s fleet mont.org, the USS Vermont Support Group and expand this work at RCML by offering Interlibrary loan, ebooks, audiobooks, free of submarines has evolved over the years FaceBook page and the group’s president, events and resources for all ages,” she said. “I online classes and VT online library. and the Vermont is the most advanced Gary Frymire, can be contacted at ussvtsg@ hope that longtime patrons will continue design built to meet that newly defined gmail.com. to find everything they love here and that mission. She was commissioned for active residents who may not have ever stopped deployment on April 18th, 2020 in a small in will find new reasons to join us.” ceremony limited by Covid restrictions. Pascoe loves to read philosophy, fairy A traditional, more public ceremony is tales, poetry, and anything written or rec- planned for a time when such restrictions ommended by library patrons. “Patrons are lifted enough to allow a gathering. are encouraged to read and explore freely Submarines typically deploy for months at and wildly at our library and I do my best a time and could be at sea for all of that time to emulate this joy,” she said. and most of it, submerged. The people of In addition to offering more adult Vermont have donated everything from warm programs, Pascoe said her goal is to ex- winter socks, books, wood products, award pand the collection of non-traditional items RCML offers. This could include anything from tools to decks of playing Help identify beautiful trees in West Windsor cards. “Currently, we offer snowshoes and park passes,” she said. Is there a beautiful tree along the roadside near your home? Have you spotted a particularly Stop by to meet Ariel during RCML’s majestic old tree when you were out for a walk, ride or drive on West Windsor’s back roads? Let us new hours: Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., know! West Windsor’s Conservation Commission and Tree Warden need help identifying trees Thursday, 2 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, for inclusion in a Shade Tree Preservation Plan. See the “news” section of West Windsor’s website 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. The library is located at to read more about how you can help! westwindsorvt.govoffice2.com 40 Village Green in Pittsfield. Ariel Pascoe The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LIVING ADE • 29 Light River Junction outdoor venue to open in WRJ Project of First Friday outdoor film, arts, and dining receives $18,000 grant WHITE RIVER JUNCTION—An underutilized parking lot behind the Hotel Coolidge in downtown White River Junction will become a vibrant, pandemic-safe place to eat, visit, and watch films and projection art this summer, thanks to an $18,000 grant from the Vermont Com- NUTRITIOUS munity Foundation (VCF), the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD), and the Better Places partners. The grant was obtained by a partnership centered on White River Indie Films (WRIF) and MEALS FOR including the Town of Hartford, the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce, Vital Communities, CATV (Community Access Television), the Briggs Opera House, the Center for Cartoon Studies, and local businesses and film and media artists. Light River Junction First Fridays with WRIF aims to reanimate White River Junction’s First VERMONTERS Friday celebrations, disrupted by Covid, by attracting people of all ages back to the village through film and media arts. From May to August, WRIF will transform downtown parking lots into an attractive forum for safe dining and cinema viewing. Film, including work by local film- IN NEED makers, will be projected in novel ways in spaces enhanced by local visual artists. The project is expected to revive social interaction and economic activity through the arts in reimagined and ongoing ways that can offer inspiration to other Vermont communities. “The vision originated in WRIF’s experimental Light River Junction Festival of Cinema Light, a weekend of outdoor projection in downtown White River Junction,” explained WRIF Board member Samantha Davidson Green. “In December 2020, we shouted out to local filmmakers, who shared their work freely for the public to enjoy safely—whether by car or through snow on foot—projected on buildings and in shop windows. Its success revealed how much the commu- nity craves the shared experience of art and the potential for re-imagining cinema and media arts events to draw people back to our hurting downtown businesses. The Better Places grant enables WRIF to partner with an amazing team of local organizations and the Town of Hartford, many of whom pioneered the First Friday celebrations years ago, in our efforts to revitalize our local economy and heal our community fabric through the arts.” The project’s main site is the parking area at 40-50 Currier St., behind the Hotel Coolidge and Gates-Briggs building, which owns the lot and supports the project. The lot is bordered on several sides by white-sided buildings that will serve as projection surfaces for cinema and moving im- age installation art. In addition, a portable screen will be erected in one end of the lot for screen- ing high-resolution feature film content after dark. The site is adjacent to the Wolf Tree Bar and in walking distance from a half-dozen restaurants, making it convenient for outdoor dining. Tuesdays, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. The project also involves a number of other aspects, including community art projects and Feb. 2 through the end of May smaller film and video projections and sound installations at spots throughout downtown, with changing content by local filmmakers and sound artists. Pico Mountain Resort These activities will be part of White River Junction First Fridays, which are scheduled for May 7, June 4, July 2, and August 6. The project’s organizers see its impact as three-fold: • Boosting the local economy by stimulating downtown shopping and dining; Thursdays, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Helping our recovery from the social isolation of COVID with programming that is Feb. 11 through the end of May welcoming to all and accessible by public transportation; and • Supporting the creative economy—which has been particularly hard-hit by the 365 Mission Farm Rd, Killington pandemic shutdowns—by drawing people back to arts-rich White River Junction and showcasing works by local and emerging film and media artists, including participants in the Vermont- and New Hampshire-wide Freedom & Unity Young Filmmakers’ Contest and a CATV-sponsored Film Slam/festival. The White River Junction project was one of only eight chosen from among 63 applications MEAL DISTRIBUTION IS DRIVE-THRU representing 54 communities across the state from Canaan to Pownal and Alburgh to Brattle- & FIRST COME FIRST SERVE. boro. A total of $129,275 was awarded. These grants will help communities reimagine and reopen public spaces for safe dining, PLEASE HELP BY FOLLOWING THESE GUIDELINES: shopping, and recreation, while showcasing the state’s unique sense of place. The community- driven projects ranged from village green and park improvements, to public art installations, MASKS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES, 3 FAMILY LIMIT alley activations, community arts centers, music and performing arts series, as well as other PER CAR, 1 MEAL PER PERSON. grassroots projects that bring people together safely in public spaces. “Better Places grants are an important tool in our toolbox to help revitalize our communities as we recover from the pandemic,” said Governor Phil Scott. “I want to thank the Vermont Com- munity Foundation, the National Life Foundation, the Vermont Arts Council, the Preservation Everyone Eats is a state funded emergency meal program and meals are Trust of Vermont, and the Vermont Department of Health for their work on this program as we for families whose access to food has been negatively impacted by COVID. support improvements in towns and villages across the state.” Participants will have to fill out a form at the time of pick-up that certifies “Public spaces can tell a story about our communities—they bring us together when acces- access to food has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. sible or leave us isolated when they aren’t,” says Vermont Community Foundation President and CEO Dan Smith. “The Community Foundation is committed to working with other state leaders to support projects that bring people together safely and contribute to the recovery and resilience of our economy, culture, and sense of connection.” First Fridays started more than 10 years ago through the collaboration of local businesses such as Revolution with the Center for Cartoon Studies, Main Street Museum, and others to celebrate downtown, becoming a community ritual gathering around the arts and local commerce. MORE INFORMATION AT VTEVERYONEEATS.ORG With the exception of the past year, WRIF has presented an annual film festival and special screenings since its 2004 founding, in various downtown locations, at times in conjunction with First Fridays. WRIF and CATV have also partnered for film slams and screenings. 30 • LIVING ADE The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Sixth annual Vermont Local breweries partner to Animation Festival begins promote Vermont-grown hops Mt. Holly Brewing is one of the local breweries participating in the Covid-safe in- Friday, March 26 carnation of the Vermont Hops Project. The project is a collaboration between several March 26-28—LYNDONVILLE — The households all over the country.” Vermont brewers to individually brew a single hop beer with sixth annual Vermont Animation Festival, This year’s festival includes a more the same Vermont grown variety, including: Black Flannel hosted by Northern Vermont University in involved partnership with Catamount Arts, Brewing, Foam Brewers, Four Quarters Brewing, Frost Beer partnership with Catamount Arts and the Renner said, offering the opportunity to pres- Works, Hired Hand Brewing, Mount Holly Beer, Rock Art Vermont Curators Group, will be held virtu- ent more community-based workshops along Brewery, Upper Pass Beer, Wunderkammer Biermanu- ally March 26-28. with a venue to highlight Jennings’s work. faktur, Zero Gravity Craft Brewery, Hogback Mountain A full slate of activities is planned for “We are thrilled to continue this longstand- Brewing, and Green Empire Brewing. beginner and experienced animators, in- ing partnership with NVU and are excited, “Champlain Valley Hops is the genius and source cluding workshops, a film screening, and an not only for the workshops and student films, behind the flavorful buds and we owe a big thanks to artist talk by keynote speaker and Vermont- but for the keynote address given by guest them for their sponsorship!” Dan Tilly of co-founder of bred/Boston-based Experimental Ani- artist Alan Jennings,” said Catamount Mt. Holly Brewing said. “Approximately each month mator Alan Jennings. Submissions Artistic Director Molly Stone. “In for the next three, each brewery will be releasing a new of animated films of all lengths addition, Catamount Arts will host beer brewed with the same Vermont grown hop. The will be accepted through March March some of Alan’s experiential ani- first hop we are using and will be released in March 16 for festival viewing and mation pieces in the first virtual is Crystal, a unique U.S. variety developed by the U.S. judging; films from students Fried Family Gallery exhibit of Dept. of Agriculture in 1993 and is a cross between and emerging animators are 26-28 work at CatamountArts.org with Hallertau, Cascade, Brewer’s Gold & Early Green.” especially welcome. Complete support from the Vermont Cura- Champlain Valley hops describes the hops’ flavor festival information, including tors Group.” as “including fresh cedar, grapefruit and rose.” submission details, is available The Vermont Animation Festival “We decided to brew an American style Kolsch with at VTAnimationFestival.org. was created in 2015 by former NVU fac- this hop using heirloom Pilsner malt from Germany “Animation is often described as ulty Robby Gilbert to showcase the unique and a traditional Kolsch yeast originally sourced from magical,” said Kate Renner, NVU-Lyndon voices of artists in New England working in Cologne, Germany where the beer style originated,” Tilly visiting assistant professor and director of animation and moving images. The fes- said. “Kolsch is one of only a couple ales traditionally the Vermont Animation Festival. “Part of tival provides a forum for regional artists, brewed in Germany (everything else is lager) and is close this magic is the potential for animation to including NVU Animation and Illustration in flavor to Pilsner but perhaps just a bit more fruity. Al- bring people of all ages and backgrounds students, to showcase their work and work- though traditionally not dry hopped we added just a pinch together during a year when community shops to engage the community. to get more expression out of the Crystal hop.” connections can be harder to come by. The To learn more about NVU’s program at its Anyone can participate by picking up the beer at a festival will bring new animated shorts by Lyndon campus, see NorthernVermont.edu/ store, and then submitting their sensory notes via a QR New England artists to residence halls and AnimationIllustration. code on the cans. SPECIALS

MONDAY-FRIDAY 1/2 Price Appetizers 3pm-5pm Inn at WEDNESDAY rail is Mule Inn at ra Night $10 all Mules cG th ’s THURSDAY is Smash L ng TM Night $10 Goomba L ng TrailT Smashes Irish Pub SATURDAY Apres-Ski Party SUNDAY BURGER NIGHT Pub Open Daily Gourmet Burger + any Cocktail $20 Mon.–Fri. 3-9 p.m. or + any Beer or Cider $15 Sat. & Sun. 12-9 p.m. COCKTAIL AND BEER Take-Out Available SPECIALS EVERYDAY De er L 2.2 eap mi sta . from KILLINGTON DISTILLERY & rt to Monday - Thursday STILL ON THE MOUNTAIN CoCktail Bar Stew & Brew Special 47 Old Mill Rd, Killington, VT | 802-422-8200 Mon.-Fri. 3p-9p | Sat. 1p-9p | Sun. 1p-8p $15 Rte. 4 between Killington & Pico Full Dinner Menu, Patio Dining 802-775-7181 with Fire Pit & Potbelly Stove Reservations Required via Open Table or 802-422-8200 innatlongtrail.com Medical Grade HEPA filters installed indoors for your added safety. Rooms & Suites available The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 LIVING ADE • 31

Devil’s Bowl Speedway announces new admission pricing and policies Season passes available; weekly $12 adult ticket pricing returns WEST HAVEN—Devil’s Bowl Speedway which will greatly improve the infield expe- has announced fan-friendly pricing and rience. Infield admission will remain $20 for policies for the 2021 dirt track season. As adults and free for kids. Vermonters demonstrate an ability to effec- Online advance ticket sales remain a con- tively control and mitigate the pandemic, venient option for the grandstands in addition management at the West Haven track re- to at-track sales on race day. Infield tickets will mains optimistic that state health and safety only be sold at the speedway on race day in regulations will soon look closer to normal. 2021 due to the uncertainty of rain and result- State-mandated restrictions last year ing soft grounds that would close the infield. severely limited group sizes, forcing Devil’s Pit area admission remains consistent at Bowl Speedway to make changes to remain most weekly events at $25 for 2021 Devil’s financially stable. Those changes included Bowl Speedway license holders and $35 for eliminating free admission for children, elimi- non-members. Discussions are underway nating discount pricing for seniors and teens, about the possibility of online advance sale and raising ticket prices to $15 for all ages. pit passes. Although many restrictions are expected Special events will have different pricing to remain in place for 2021, track promoter in the grandstands, infield, and pit area, and Mike Bruno has made changes to help all prices and policies are subject to change families enjoy events more affordably. As dependent upon state mandates. a result, Devil’s Bowl will reintroduce a Season passes are now available for the lower $12 adult price (all ages, 13 and up) grandstands and the pit area. Grandstand By Buzz Fisher, CreativeOutbursts.com for weekly events, and a more affordable $5 general admission season passes are $300 Devil’s Bowl Speedway has announced its new fan-friendly pricing and policies for the 2021 child ticket will be offered at all events. for adults and $50 for kids. Reserved general dirt track season. The new infield drive-in parking area admission seating is also available for an — which was created to facilitate social dis- additional $50. Season pit passes area pay a whopping $2,500 to win, and the from Rutland. For more information, tancing — quickly became an exciting op- available for $600 for members and $800 for Limited Sportsman, Super Stock, Mini visit DevilsBowlSpeedwayVT.com or call tion for fans, and it will remain an important non-members. Stock, and 500cc Mini Sprint classes will 802-265-3112. Devil’s Bowl Speedway is on part of Devil’s Bowl moving forward. A new Mike’s Fuels of Bridport presents also be in action. Facebook at facebook.com/DevilsBowl- access road, a new entry and exit point, and Devil’s Bowl Speedway’s 55th season Devil’s Bowl Speedway is located on Speedway, and on , Instagram, and a new infield food and beverage conces- opener on Saturday, May 1, at 7 p.m. The Route 22A in West Haven, four miles north Snapchat at @DevilsBowlSpeed; follow the sion stand will be constructed in the spring, 30-lap Sportsman Modified feature will of U.S. Route 4, Exit 2, and just 20 minutes action using the #DevilsBowl hashtag. U.S. Forest Service bars VT F&W suggests residents remove their access to peregrine falcon bird feeders by April 1 nesting cliffs The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. says warm spring bear to report the incident in a form that we have on our As they return to Vermont each spring, peregrine fal- weather and melting snows will cause bears to come out website (vtfishandwildlife.com) under Living with Black cons prepare to nest and raise their young on the high cliffs of their winter dens in search of food. The department Bears,” said Hammond. “There is a section in the form throughout the state. To protect peregrine nesting sites with- recommends taking down bird feeders by April 1 to where you can ask us to call you to provide advice.” in the Green Mountain National Forest, Forest Service offi- avoid attracting bears. cials have once again closed human access at two prominent “We are already receiving our first bear reports, and cliff sites on the Forest’s Rochester and Middlebury ranger the warmer temperatures predicted now will stimulate districts, which also are popular hiking areas. more bears to emerge from their dens to seek any food On March 15, the Rattlesnake Cliff area above Lake sources they can smell,” said Forrest Hammond, Ver- Dunmore in Salisbury and Mount Horrid-Great Cliff mont’s bear biologist. on Route 73 in Rochester were closed until Aug. 1. The “Bears are very fond of suet and bird seed, especially closure, which includes the trails and areas leading to black oil sunflower seed, which they can smell from a and accessing these cliffs, is intended to prevent distur- long distance. Bringing feeders in at night doesn’t work, bance to critical falcon nesting habitat. Peregrine falcon because bears will still feed on seed that is spilled on the populations suffered declines due to the use of DDT in the ground.” 1940’s but have rebounded since their reintroduction in Bird feeders are just one of the things that can attract the 1980’s. Even though peregrines are now considered a hungry bears. Other sources of food that bears find ap- recovered species in Vermont, it is critical to minimize hu- pealing are pet food, barbecue grills, garbage, household man disturbance to nest sites so that the species’ recovery trash containers, open Dumpsters, campsites with ac- continues. Across Vermont, 2020 was a successful year cessible food, and food wastes. for peregrines; 48 nesting pairs produced 77 young that Purposely feeding a bear is not just bad for the bear fledged from their cliff nests. — it is dangerous for you, it causes problems for your Given the increased participation in outdoor activities, neighbors and it’s also illegal. particularly hiking, we all need to respect important habitat Fish & Wildlife also offers the following tips to avoid and the closures that have helped the peregrine falcon re- bear problems: turn to our forests. Please adhere to the closure signs posted • Keep chickens and honeybees secure within on the trails leading to the cliff overlooks. an electric fence or other bear-proof enclosure. Information regarding the specific locations for the • Never feed bears, deliberately or accidentally. closure areas is available on the Forest Service website. • Feed your pets indoors. Disturbance of peregrine falcons and/or these nesting • If you compost learn to do it without causing grounds is a violation of federal law and may result in a fine odors that attract wildlife. up to $5,000 and six months in jail. Please report any harass- • Store trash in a secure place. Trash cans alone are ment of nesting peregrine falcons to 1-800-75ALERT. The not enough. Forest Service works with Audubon Vermont, Vermont Fish • If bears are entering your Dumpster, request a a& Wildlife, and other non-profit organizations to protect bear-proof one from your waste hauler. peregrine falcons. “We are asking anyone who has a problem with a Courtesy of VT F&W 32 • LIVING ADE The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Dorset Theatre Festival announces 2021 season DORSET—Dorset Theatre Festival, under the leadership of Artistic Director Dina Outdoor season at SVAC Janis, is proud to announce the festival’s return for summer 2021, including the inaugural The StageFree series will lead up to the festival’s live outdoor season at the Southern Vermont StageFree Audio Play Series, featuring new commissions by playwrights Theresa Rebeck Arts Center in Manchester. The festival is designing an outdoor stage to be home to main stage and Chisa Hutchinson, and live outdoor performances at the Southern Vermont Arts productions, special events, and more, set under the stars throughout July and August. “We are Center in Manchester, throughout July and August. delighted to share SVAC’s campus with our arts partner, the Dorset Theatre Festival, and we hope “Our season will look very different from what you’ve seen in the past, but we hope we can help lift up our community through the incredible arts that are based here in Southern folks will join us on this journey as we navigate this exciting new adventure. In a dark Vermont,’’ said Southern Vermont Arts Center’s Executive Director Anne Corso. time for live theatre, we are grateful to have an opportunity to evolve and continue The festival’s season will also include special performances and talks for audiences to enjoy honoring our mission with a hybrid season of world premiere audio plays and socially along with the amenities of the SVAC campus, including art galleries, walking trails, the new distant live performances at our 2021 pop-up stage at the Southern Vermont Arts Cen- curATE café, and performances by the Manchester Music Festival. ter,” said Dina Janis. “Dorset Theatre Festival has long thought Stagefree audio plays of ourselves as a kitchen table for the com- The festival’s 2021 comeback season is munity — a place where people come to slated to begin in June, with the debut of laugh together, celebrate together, and learn StageFree Audio Plays, a new series writ- together. We are so excited to work together ten for a totally aural experience. “With with all of our arts partners in the area, most the Festival’s regular stage dark, we are especially our hosts at Southern Vermont Arts excited to begin playing on the aural stage, Center, to continue that tradition and build a a theatrical space that is both intimate and lively and safe campus for our community to allows for great creativity and freedom,” experience arts and culture all summer long,” said Janis. “These newly commissioned said Janis. plays will allow the audience to engage Although the annual series of live perfor- directly with the words of a play, envision- mances will move outdoors this year due to ing them in their own imaginations, a safety concerns, Janis said the festival will powerful theatrical space where anything still be present at the Dorset Playhouse, the and everything is possible.” organization’s longtime home in Dorset, VT. The festival has commissioned award- “We are so looking forward to the day we are winning writers Theresa Rebeck and Chisa performing back on the Playhouse stage,” Hutchinson to write the first two-part said Janis. “Until then, we plan to use the plays in the series. As the festival’s resident space as our creative hub for rehearsals and playwright and “the most Broadway- set-building - basically everything except live produced female playwright of our time,” performances.” Rebeck has developed more than eight Courtesy of Dorset Theatre In order to bring audiences together for live new plays with the festival, many of which performances, Dorset Theatre Festival will be have moved to New York City and theaters across the country. Rebeck’s new spy thriller, following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and the Vermont Dept. of Health. “355,” starring Jessica Chastain, Penelope Cruz, and Lupita Nyong’o is expected to be “Safety will be the priority for our artists and staff, and for the audience,” according released this coming January. In addition to currently writing for a new Showtime series, to Janis, who said the festival is working with Actors’ Equity Association and other artist Hutchinson’s plays have had celebrated productions at the Lark Theater, Atlantic Theater unions to develop a safety plan that will need to be approved before rehearsals can begin Company, Rattlestick Playwrights Theater, the Contemporary American Theater Festival, in June. “Everyday we are learning something new, or waiting for updated guidance,” said the National Black Theatre, and Delaware REP. Hutchinson’s audio play, “Proof of Love,” Janis, “but we believe in community, and if we can do so safely, there is an immediate was on Audible’s Top 5 Audio list. need to bring our community together this summer.” Dorset’s StageFree Audio Plays will create theatrical experiences that invite the listen- Audiences will find things noticeably different this year, including a touchless and ers to participate in a new and entertaining way, according to Dorset Theatre Festival’s paperless box office, a digital playbill, social distancing, and required face masks. “We are resident artist and co-curator of the StageFree series, Jade King Carroll. These plays will braving a whole new world this season, literally creating a theater from the ground up. be available for free wherever listeners hear podcasts. “We want to bring theatre to people Pandemic, weather — lots of things are going to be new challenges, but we are excited and everywhere and anywhere. StageFree is designed as a way of breaking down barriers to hope our audiences are excited to join us on this adventure,” said Janis. engaging new audiences who can help us build a vibrant future for the Festival, and of lift- Show details will be announced at a later date, and tickets for the outdoor season are ing up the voices of two of the most inspired writers of our time,” said Janis. expected to be on sale in May at dorsettheatrefestival.org. Repairing winter damage on your lawn by Melinda Myers As winter gives way to spring take a walk these areas. Fortunately, lawns eventually street for deicing salt damage. Even if you of savings, your mower will consume 22% less around the yard. Check the lawn for damage recover. Reduce the risk of future problems don’t apply deicing salts, passing cars can fuel and the lawn will use up to 30% less water and provide a bit of early season care to help with proper timing of lawn fertilization. spray it onto your lawn. Your car also brings when using sharp blades. it recover from winter. Remove any leaves or debris that ended home salt as it travels along salted roadways, Soon it will be time to mow the lawn. Mow Use a leaf rake to lightly lift and separate up on the lawn. Large leaves on the grass depositing salty snow onto the drive. high and often, leaving grass clippings on the the matted grass blades. This helps speed capture moisture and prevent sunlight from Make sure these areas receive sufficient lawn to add organic matter, moisture, and drying, increase airflow, and reduce the reaching the plants below. Use leaves you water this spring. Regular spring showers nutrients to the soil. Always sweep clippings risk of pink and gray snow mold develop- collect as mulch in the garden or add to the often do the job. Thoroughly water these areas off walks and the drive to keep this valuable compost pile. during dry springtime weather to help wash organic matter out of waterways. Take care of winter damage now before Look for vole trails in the the salt past the grass roots into the soil below. Take care of winter damage now before the lawn. These small rodents Consider shoveling first and using plant- even busier garden season begins. Investing the even busier garden season begins. travel beneath the snow and friendly deicing salts in the future. This will time now helps improve your lawn’s health over the grass in search of reduce the need for deicing salts and reduce and beauty, allowing you more time to enjoy ing and damaging your lawn. food all winter long. Their travels create the time and money spent repairing salt- the summer. These fungal diseases are most common trails of bare or dead grass. The surround- damaged plants. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 when heavy snowfalls or ice covers non- ing grass will eventually fill in the damaged Use this time to sharpen your mower gardening books, including “Small Space Gar- frozen turf or after late winter snowstorms. areas. Speed recovery by sprinkling grass blades. Using sharp blades to cut the grass dening.” She hosts The Great Courses “How to The damage is usually seen where snow seed over the trails. Just mix a handful of results in a healthier and better-looking lawn. Grow Anything” DVD series and the national- lingers late in the season. grass seed in a mop bucket of topsoil to The clean cut made by a sharp blade closes ly-syndicated “Melinda’s Garden Moment” TV Symptoms appear as circular areas of make a lawn patch. Sprinkle the mixture in quickly, reducing the risk of disease prob- & radio program. Myers is also a columnist and matted brown grass. You may even see the trails, gently tamp and water. lems. Sharp blades also save time as you can contributing editor for Birds & Blooms maga- a gray or pink cobweb-like growth over Check areas along walks, drives and the cut the grass more efficiently. And speaking zine. Her website is MelindaMyers.com. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 PUZZLES • 33

WORDPLAY SUDOKU ‘Auto repair’ Word Search: Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally and backwards. Solutions > 42

How to Play Each block is divided by its own matrix of nine cells. The rule for solving Su- doku puzzles are very simple. Each row, column and block, must contain one of the numbers from “1” to “9”. No number may appear more than once in any row, column, or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid the puzzle is solved.

ADAPTIVE BUMPERS FLUIDS REMOTE AIR BAG CARGO HEADLIGHTS SKID AUTOMATIC CERTIFIED MANUAL STRUCTURE BATTERY COMPRESSOR PEDALS SUPPORT BELT ENGINE PROTECTION SUSPENSION BRAKING FILTER PUMP TRANSMISSION

CROSSWORD PUZZLE Solutions > 42

CLUES ACROSS SW Asia 1. Volcanic crater 45. The common 5. Long times gibbon 10. Swedish rock 46. Disfigure group 47. Ribonucleic acid 14. Having the means 48. Japanese to do something honorific 15. Rods or spindles 49. Pieces of music 16. La __ Tar Pits, 52. Expressed Hollywood pleasure 17. Missing soldiers 55. Having ten 18. Measuring 56. Type of sword instrument 60. Humble request 19. All of the for help components 61. Eating houses considered 63. Italian Seaport individually 64. Cain and __ 20. Play “__ Irish 65. Measure the Rose” depth Full Service Vape Shop 22. Gene 66. U. of Miami’s Humidifi ed Premium Cigars • Hand Blown Glass Pipes 23. Barrels mascot Hookahs & Shisha Roll Your Own Tobacco & Supplies 24. London-based 67. Political outsiders CBD Products • Smoking Accessories soccer team 68. Greek sorceress 27. Feline 69. Body part 131 Strongs Avenue Rutland, VT Like us on 30. Breed of sheep (802) 775-2552 Facebook! 31. Body part CLUES DOWN Call For Shuttle Schedule 32. Doctors’ group 1. Mother 35. One who follows 2. Jewish calendar the rules month 37. Cigarette residue 3. Jai __, sport FOR COVID-19 UPDATES 38. Ancient Greek 4. Establish again sophist 5. Swiss river 13. Expresses pleasure 34. A person from Asia 49. Closes tightly 39. Polish yeast 6. Racetrack wager 21. Painful places on the body 36. Father 50. Saudi Arabian desert cakes 7. __ but goodie 23. Automobile 37. General’s assistant (abbr.) 51. Famed vaccine developer • Visit mountaintimes.info 40. Promotional 8. Closeness 25. Scandinavian god of battle 38. Cooked or prepared in a 52. Multi-function radar (abbr.) materials 9. Soviet Socialist 26. Expresses surprise specified style 53. Actress Jessica • Sign up for our e-newsletter 41. Pancakes made Republic 27. Secret political clique 40. Large terrier 54. Pay attention to from buckwheat flour 10. At right angles to 28. Yields manila hemp 41. Hillsides 57. Beloved big screen pig • Follow us on Facebook 42. Completed a ship’s length 29. River in central Italy 43. Golf score 58. __ Clapton, musician perfectly 11. Women’s 32. Brain injury science 44. Not or 59. Take a chance 43. Photo undergarments acronym 46. Type of student 61. Cost per mille MOUNTA IN TIMES 44. A peninsula in 12. Mountain stream 33. Mental illness 47. Flower cluster 62. Helps little firms 34 • Food MaMatterstters The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Back Country Café Killington Market The Back Country Café is a hot spot Take breakfast, lunch or dinner on the go for delicious breakfast foods. Choose at Killington Market, Killington’s on-moun- from farm fresh eggs, multiple kinds of tain grocery store for the last 30 years. pancakes and waffles, omelets or daily Choose from breakfast sandwiches, hand specials to make your breakfast one of a kind. Just the right heat Bloody carved dinners, pizza, daily fresh hot panini, roast chicken, salad and specialty Marys, Mimosas, Bellini, VT Craft Brews, Coffee and hot chocolate drinks. sandwiches. Vermont products, maple syrup, fresh meat and produce along Maple Syrup and VT products for sale. Check Facebook for daily specials. with wine and beer are also for sale. killingtonmarket.com (802) 422-7736 (802) 422-4411. or (802) 422-7594.

HOUSE SMOKED MEATS • FRESH-MADE TOPPINGS TACOS, BURRITOS, FAJITAS, CHIMICHANGAS, NACHOS, Birch Ridge Liquid Art EMPANADAS, KIDS MENU Serving locals and visitors alike since 1998, din- Relax in the warm atmosphere at Liquid ner at the Birch Ridge Inn is a delicious way to Art. Look for artfully served lattes from complete your day in Killington. Featuring Vermont their La Marzocco espresso machine, or Specialty inspired New American cuisine in the Inn’s dining if you want something stronger, try their Tacos room and Great Room Lounge, you will also find signature cocktails. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, they focus on healthy a nicely stocked bar, hand crafted cocktails, fine fare and provide you with a delicious meal different than anything else on the & more wines, seafood and vegetarian options, and wonderful house made desserts. mountain. liquidartvt.com, (802) 422-2787. birchridge.com, (802) 422-4293.

Casey’s Caboose Lookout Tavern Come for fun, amazing food, great drinks, and Celebrating 20 years of fun, friends and good wonderful people. A full bar fantastic wines and times here in Killington! Everything from soup the largest selection of craft beers with 21 on tap. to nuts for lunch and dinner; juicy burgers, fresh Our chefs create fresh, healthy and interesting salads, delicious sandwiches and K-Town’s best cuisine. Try our steaks or our gourmet burgers wings. Your first stop after a full day on the Moun- made with 100% Vermont ground beef, U.S. lamb or home-grown pork— we tain for a cold beer or specialty drink and a great have 17 burgers on our menu! Try our famous mac n’ cheese with or without meal! lookoutvt.com, (802) 422-5665. lobster. Yes! the train is still running... caseyscaboose.com,(802) 422-3795.

take out available Dream Maker Bakers Moguls 802.422.2424 Dream Maker Bakers is an all-butter, from-scratch Voted the best ribs and burger in Killing- bakery making breads, bagels, croissants, cakes FAMILY STYLE TACO KITS, MARGARITAS TO GO ton, Moguls is a great place for the whole and more daily. It serves soups, salads and family. Soups, onion rings, mozzarella 2841 KILLINGTON RD, KILLINGTON sandwiches and offers seating with free Wifi. At sticks, chicken fingers, buckets of chicken 5501 US Route 4, Killington, VT. No time to wait? wings, salads, subs and pasta are just Call ahead. Curb-side pick up available. dreammakerbakers.com, (802) 422- some of the food that’s on the menu. Free shuttle and take away and delivery ATM 5950. options are available. mogulssportspub.com (802) 422-4777. Inn at Long Trail Grat Looking for something a little different? Hit up c h McGrath’s Irish Pub for a perfectly poured pint of ’s Mountain Munchies M Guinness, live music on the weekends and deli- Great food delivered to your door! Choose from Irish Pub cious food. Guinness not your favorite? They also a variety of appetizers, soups, desserts and have Vermont’s largest Irish Whiskey selection. sandwiches including chicken & biscuit sandwich, GROCERY Visit innatlongtrail.com, (802) 775-7181. meatball sub and old italian. Check out the full menu on Facebook. (802) 422-8777 MEATS AND SEAFOOD Jones’ Donuts Offering donuts and a bakery, with a beer and wine community reputation as being the best! Closed Monday and Tuesday. 23 West Nite Spot Pizza Street, Rutland. See what’s on spe- Outrageously good pizza. Join us for wood fired DELICATESSEN cial at Facebook.com/JonesDonuts/. pizza, salads, kids menu, family arcade and live BAKERY PIZZA CATERING Call (802) 773-7810. music! (802) 422-9885. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sun. - Thurs. 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. CURBSIDE Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. PICKUP 2023 KILLINGTON ROAD AVAILABLE 802-422-7736 802-422-7736 *For safety, please limit 2 customers per family/group Take-Out Convenience: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily Specials posted on @KillingtonMarket & our website. Order by 2 p.m. Call Deli 802-422-7594 Any special requests are always welcome. www.killingtonmarket.com The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 FOOD MATTERS • 35

Seward’s Dairy Lawson’s Finest Liquids If you’re looking for something truly unique and Vermont, check out Seward puts spotlight on Cashmere Dairy Bar. Serving classic homemade food including hamburgers, steaks, chicken, sandwiches and seafood. Crav- hops with release of brand- ing something a little sweeter? Check out their own homemade 39 flavors of ice cream. Vermont products also sold. (802) 773-2738. new Super Session #5 IPA There is officially a new hop in town. Lawson’s Finest -Liq Still On the Mountain uids has turned to Cashmere hops for the latest release in its longtime Super Session single-hop IPA series, introduc- Killington Distillery & Still on the Mountain Cocktail Bar invite you to enjoy our handcrafted ing Super Session #5 to its full distribution area this week. small batch spirits inspired from the blissful Kil- The Cashmere-hopped IPA, which is completely new to the lington region. Pair your cocktail with one of market, will be available through the end of May in Con- Free POOL Mondays • DARTS • 20 TV Screens • PIZZA our delectable food offerings made from sus- necticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jer- BURGERS • BBQ RIBS • SALADS • GYROS • WINGS tainably sourced, local ingredients. Sit back, sey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. sip on your cocktail, and dig into a delicious meal in the lap of nature. Brewed with the same malt base and specialty malts as killingtondistillery.com, (802) 422-8200. the other beers in this IPA series, Super Session #5 features a generous amount of Cashmere hops that get added late TAKE-OUT in the kettle and in dry hopping. The Cashmere hops give AVAILABLE Sugar and Spice Super Session #5 a soft, balanced hop character, and at 4.8% CALL Stop on by to Sugar and Spice for a home style ABV, the beer is light, refreshing, and approachable. (802) 422-4777 breakfast or lunch served up right. Try six differ- “We’ve been testing a wide variety of hops for our Super ent kinds of pancakes and/or waffles or order up Session series, and we’re just thrilled with how Super Ses- some eggs and home fries. For lunch they offer sion #5 came out,” said Sean Lawson, CEO and founder of THURSDAY: SATURDAY: a Filmore salad, grilled roast beef, burgers and SUPER STASH BROS. sandwiches. Take away available. Lawson’s Finest Liquids. “Cashmere provides plenty of hop DUANE CARLETON www.vtsugarandspice.com (802) 773-7832. character and aroma, but in a way that is softer and not as SUNDAY:NOT QUITE FRIDAY: WITH bitter or aggressive as some other hop varieties. The result DEAD SUNDAYS CHRIS PALLUTTO is a really quaffable session IPA that combines delicate ACOUSTIK RUCKUS Sushi Yoshi notes of peach, melon, and coconut with the crisp, refresh- Sushi Yoshi is Killington’s true culinary ad- ing mouthfeel of a lighter ale. We can’t wait for everyone to WE’VE GOT YOUR GAME venture. With Hibachi, Sushi, Chinese and experience Super Session #5 for the first time this spring.” 16 DRAFT BEERS Japanese, we have something for every age Super Session #5 IPA will be available in both 4-packs @ p m and palate. Private Tatame rooms and large (16 oz. cans) and 12-packs (12 oz. cans). The beer will be OPEN MON/TUES/THURS/FRI 3 . . party seating available. We boast a full bar with available through the end of May, at which point Law- SAT/SUN @ 2 p.m. 20 craft beers on draft. We are chef-owned and operated. Serving lunch son’s Finest Liquids will transition to the wildly popular, TAKE-OUT and dinner. Delivery or take away option available. Now open year round. Mosaic-hopped Super Session #8. ON THE KILLINGTON & www.vermontsushi.com (802) 422-4241. The introduction of the brand-new Super Session #5 comes ACCESS ROAD RESERVATIONS on the heels of Lawson’s Finest’s announcement of Little Sip as its newest year-round beer. Little Sip, the juicy, fruit-forward cousin of the brewery’s flagship Sip of Sunshine IPA, is now Taco X available all year long across Lawson’s Finest’s nine-state dis- Taco X is the place to go for a wide selection of tribution area. Craft beer drinkers in the Northeast now have tacos and entrees full of house-smoked meats, year-round access to Sip of Sunshine, Little Sip, and a rotating fresh-made toppings and artisanal fermentation. selection of Super Session IPAs. Lawson’s Finest will also be Don’t forget the Margarita! Located at 2841 Killing- distributing six specialty releases – Knockout Blonde, Scrag ton Road. Call (802)422-2424 for take-out orders. Mountain Pils, Scrag Mountain Pils Follow @killingtontacox on Facebook. Salt & Lime, Hopcelot IPA, Kiwi Double IPA, and Triple Sun- shine – to OPEN DDAILYAILY 11:3011:30 its regional aatt amam retailers on a rolling basis in short, sea- BURGERS SANDWICHES sonal stints. BURRITOS BBQ RIBS SEAFOOD NACHOS CRAFT BEER DAILY SPECIALS Open BEST WINGS KIDS MENU 7:30 am - 4 pm ~ Thurs. - Mon. 5501 US Route 4 • Killington, VT 05751 *Curbside pick-up available. 802.422.5950 20TH ANNIVERSAR OUR Y! Cafe Style Dining & Take Out Fresh and delicious house made artisan breads, baked goods signature sandwiches, local meats and poultry, farm-to-table DINE IN & BAR SEATING AVAILABLE produce, smoothies, hot coffee & more! 2910 KILLINGTON ROAD, KILLINGTON VT Breakfast • Pastries • Coffee • Lunch • Cakes • Special Occasions 802-422-LOOK LOOKOUTVT.COM 36 • Food MaMatterstters The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Let’s Go Fishing program seeks instructors 10% off Training workshop set for April 17 your online CASTLETON—The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. is order seeking volunteers to become Let’s Go Fishing instruc- Use code: tors to pass on Vermont’s fishing tradition to the next Killington generation of Vermonters. The department will be host- 2337 ing a one-day training workshop for new instructors on Saturday, April 17 at the Edward F. Kehoe Conservation REALREAL Camp in Castleton. Instructors in the Let’s Go Fishing program organize GOURMETGOURMET BURGERSBURGERS and instruct clinics in their communities for Vermonters TheThe BestBest inin VermontVermont of all ages. Participants in the training workshop will learn 19 burgersburgers onon thethe menu!menu! how to teach a basic fishing clinic, as well as learn about regulations and ethics, aquatic ecology, fisheries manage- Variety Of Award Winning ment, habitat conservation and tackle craft. They will also MAC ‘N’ CHEESE be introduced to conducting specialized fishing clinics, including clinics on ice fishing and species-specific fish- GGREATREAT STEAKSSTEAKS ing. The class is informal, and it is not necessary to have a high level of fishing expertise to become an instructor. “This is an excellent opportunity for people passionate FISH & CHIPS about fishing to share their love of the sport with others. It CChildren’shildren’s MenuMenu - Vegetarian Choices is also an excellent resource for educators seeking to bring important topics such as aquatic ecology and habitat 2211 LOCALLOCAL management into their classroom through hands-on activities,” said Fish & Wildlife’s Corey Hart. by Corey Hart, courtesy of VT F&W CRAFTCRAFT DRAFTSDRAFTS There is no charge for the training, and all curriculum materials will be provided. Educators looking to earn one online at vtfishandwildlife.com/node/232 or by email- GIN KITCHEN graduate level credit through Castleton University can ing [email protected]. wide choice of gins and an interesting participate on the training through a course titled Experi- Once completed, pending a background check, attend- range of tonics and botanicals ential Education in Aquatic Ecology & Habitat Conserva- ees will become certified instructors and have access to tion. The Castleton University course takes place the same program equipment and resources for their programs. HHalfwayalfway uupp tthehe day and time but includes additional work. Covid-19 guidelines must be followed by all partici- KKillingtonillington Bring your lunch. The workshop runs from 8:30 a.m. to pants including wearing face coverings throughout the AAccessccess RRoadoad 3:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required, and you must be 18 course. More information on protocol for the course years of age to participate. Those interested can register participants will be shared upon registering. Take Out Vermont 4-H hosts gardening series for kids (802) 773-2738 Vermont Specials A free, six-part series for pollinator-friendly and salads desserts kids menu Gift Shop Daily youths ages 8-18 will focus edible flowers, seed sav- Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner on resources and skills to ing, edible and inedible LARGEST SELECTION OF ICE CREAM TREATS! grow and eat healthy food. wild plants, animals in Take-Out GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! The biweekly program, the garden and nutri- offered through University tion, including recipes available Celebrating our 74th year! of Vermont (UVM) Exten- and information to make Open Daily 6:30 a.m. Wood Fired Pizza sion 4-H, will take place healthy dietary choices. call (802) 422-9885 via Zoom on Tuesdays Each session is designed to from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Ses- increase awareness of the sions are planned for April wider natural environment 6 and 20, May 4 and 18 and and will include a take- June 1 and 15. home activity. Both new and expe- These activities include rienced gardeners and paper towel planting, cooks are encouraged to growing sprouts in a OPEN attend. Youths are wel- Mason jar, seed starting, Thurs.-Sun. come to participate as in- direct-sowing of edible @ 4pm dividuals or as a class, club flowers and finding a “sit Thurs/Fri/Sat 4:20PM - 12AM or other group. Member- spot” to observe the natu- ship in 4-H is not required. ral world, among others. THURSDAY: SATURDAY: DUANE Sun 12PM - 6PM To register, go to go.uvm. Book recommendations ACOUSTIK RUCKUS DOUBLE PLAY edu/4-h-gardening. and other resources also Presenters include will be shared so partici- FRIDAY: SUNDAY: Follow us on & UVM Extension Master pants can explore topics in SUPER STASH BROS. SISTER OUTLAW Gardeners, nutrition edu- depth on their own. Check out our menu mountainmunchiesvt.com cators and 4-H staff. The Visit uvm.edu/exten- CALL TO ORDER series is interactive, and sion/youth/announce- OutrageouslOutrageouslyy participants are encour- ments for more informa- 802-422-8877 aged to share their garden- tion. To request a disabil- Good PizzPizzaa FREE DELIVERY ing experiences and ask ity-related accommoda- questions. tion, contact Liz Kenton Among the topics at [email protected] or 2841 KILLINGTON RD, KILLINGTON We offer sandwiches & apps covered will be tips for (802) 257-7967, ext. 308. growing vegetables, The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 FOOD MATTERS • 37

Shoots for a fresh taste of summer ROE, ROE, ROE By Bonnie Kirn Donahue, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont Are you missing the fresh greens container in one layer. I use about two to five days later), they are ready to eat. YOUR BOAT of summer? During the winter, our tablespoons of seeds for a 7- x 9-inch Using a pair of scissors, you can options for fresh, homegrown veggies container. Clean, plastic 4 oz. lettuce harvest as needed. Gently rinsing the can be limited. containers work well for this. Soak shoots before eating will help remove One great option for eating fresh your seeds for 6-24 hours in cold water, any of the seed casings that might have greens year-round may be your local enough to keep the seeds well covered. gotten stuck on top of the shoots. Dry farm stand. Many local farmers use cre- Next, prepare the growing shoots will keep in a sealed con- ative methods to grow a variety of leafy medium. Add moistened tainer or bag in the refrigera- greens throughout the cold winter. potting soil to the con- tor for up to a week. Another idea is to try growing some- tainer to a depth about After you have Mid-wMid-wayay up KillingtKillingtonon AAccessccess RdRd.. thing green yourself. With only seeds, a fingertip below the harvested all of the Open for Indoor Dining,Dining, Take-OutTake-Out and DeliveryDelivery potting soil, a recycled container and container’s edge. shoots, you can SServingerving LLunchunch & Dinner Daily a windowsill, you can grow fresh, min- Strain the seeds compost the soil vermontsushi.comvermontsushi.com • 802.422.4241 iature greens, often referred to as mi- and rinse, then lay and roots. How- crogreens or shoots, which will add a them in an even ever, if you leave summer-like brightness to your meals. layer on the sur- some varieties, HIBACHI | SUSHI | ASIAN What are shoots? Shoots are young face of the soil. such as pea shoots, seedlings that can be harvested just af- Cover the on the windowsill ter the cotyledon or first true leaves have container with a or kitchen counter, KILLINGTON developed. They can be grown at a high lightweight plastic they will partially regrow FOOD SHELF density and are ready to eat within a tray, folded newspaper or and you can get a second week or two after sprouting. cardboard. Place in a warm, dark cutting. You can grow many types of shoots: place. Make sure to check the soil Some ways that my husband and I radish, buckwheat, peas, popcorn and moisture periodically, and add water if enjoy eating shoots are on salads, with nasturtium, among others. Seeds for it feels dry to the touch. eggs, as toppings on sandwiches or shoots are available through seed com- After about three to five days, the even sautéed. panies or at your local garden center. shoots will be a couple of inches high Need more direction? Just make sure that the seeds you buy and will push up your lightweight cover. You can find some great books are intended for this purpose. Not all You can now remove the covering. on this topic at your local library or seeds or plants are edible, so do your Place the container in a well-lit spot, bookstore. Other good resources are We are stocked with nonperishable food, paper goods research before starting. such as a windowsill. Check daily, and Cooperative Extension Service web- & cleaning supplies. Any person in need, please call to First, measure out enough seeds water if the soil is dry to the touch. Once sites, seed suppliers and the experts at arrange a pickup. Donations accepted. Please call Nan to evenly cover the surface of your the shoots have leafed out (about three your local garden center. Salamon, 422-9244 or Ron Willis, 422-3843. Sherburne UCC “Little White Church,” Killington, VT Killington farmers’ market now accepting vendor applications

The Killington Farmers’ Market Open 7 Days will return to the Killington Sports ( 7 A.M. - 1 P.M.) parking lot on Route 4 in Killing- ton this summer. Any active producer (growing/ raising/pickling/preparing/baking/ or creating) their own products @back_country_cafe is invited to participate. email EGGS • OMELETTES • PANCAKES • WAFFLES [email protected] Great Breakfast Menu for a vendor application. TTAKE-OUTAKE-OUT AAVAILABLEVAILABLE Courtesy Killington Farmers Market 923 KILLINGTON RD. 802-422-4411 JONESJONES DONUTSDONUTS Come to our sugarhouse for the best breakfast around! After breakfast, check out our gift shop for all your souvenir, gift, and maple “Jones Donuts and Bakery is a syrup needs. We look must stop if you reside or simply forward to your visit! come to visit Rutland. They have Dine-in or Take-out available. been an institution in the community and are simply the best.” Serving Breakfast & Lunch 7a.m. - 2p.m. daily OPEN WED. - SUN. 5 TO 12 CLOSED MON. + TUES. Check out our menu online! Sugar & Spice Restaurant & Gift Shop 23 West St, Rutland Rt. 4 Mendon, VT 802-773-7810 802-773-7832 | www.vtsugarandspice.com 38 • PETS The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Rutland County Humane Society

TIM & WILLIAM LEIA - 1-year-old. Spayed APHRODITE - Adult. Looking for some bunny to love? Tim and William are 1 to female. Collie mix. Black/ Spayed female. Rabbit. 2-year-old lop mixes. They came to us from an overcrowded Black I am lovely velvet home. Both bunnies are shy, but are learning to trust and white. Energetic, fun lady will need an owner to socialize them more. These two are not looking for a forever home! black rabbit who likes to bonded and can go to separate indoor homes. Both have been sit and watch the world go neutered and use their litter boxes. If you would like to give one by in between eating and of these boys a loving home you can fill out an application on playing. our website or give us a call.

This pet is available for adoption at Springfield Humane Society 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, VT• (802) 885-3997 *Adoptions will be handled online until further notice. ZAZU spfldhumane.org 4‑months‑old. Spayed female. Domestic Shorthair. Black and white. I am so full of life and energy, I love to play so TANK - 4-years-old. much. Neutered male. Boxer All of these pets are available for adoption at mix. I am a fun loving easy Rutland County Humane Society going guy that has lived 765 Stevens Road, Pittsford, VT • (802) 483-6700 with children and love to Tues. - Sat. 12-5p.m. Closed Sun. & Mon. • www.rchsvt.org play with them.

Pet hazards to watch for at Easter Chocolate bunnies, Easter grass in baskets and lilies make us think of Easter and spring. But the Rutland County Hu- CALLIE mane Society (RCHS) wants to remind you to also think of your pets during the holiday. Lilies, beautiful and fragrant, are deadly to cats so please be very aware of your felines if you have lilies in your home or garden. All parts of the lily, including I’m a 6-year-old spayed female. Circumstances changed in pollen are toxic to cats and cause sudden severe kidney failure and death, if not treated promptly. Chocolate is harmful to my previous residence, due to no fault of mine. I am settling both dogs and cats and should be kept out of reach of curious canines and felines. Easter grass, if eaten, can pose a deadly in exceedingly well! I’m an affectionate girl and might be a threat. It’s enticing due to the interesting sounds it makes, how it feels on animal’s gums and its movement in the breeze but little shy at first, but I come around quick – I love attention! I love playing with toys and lazing about, as well. I mean who it can be very harmful if ingested. Keep an eye out for your pets this spring so you can enjoy without worries. doesn’t like a good nap? So, if you are looking for a cuddly companion to brighten up your days after a long, cold win- ter, please call today to learn more! Living the porch life This pet is available for adoption at Lucy Mackenzie Humane Society 4832 VT-44, Windsor, VT • (802) 484-5829 *(By appointment only at this time.) Tues. - Sat. 12-4 p.m. & Thurs. 12-7 p.m. • lucymac.org

By Brooke Geery By Brooke Geery Winnie the Goldren Retriever watches the birds. She's going A baby chickadee captured taking a break the moment before to be sad when the bird feeders are taken next week. VT F&W it decided to fly off into the world. recommends emptying them by April 1. The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 HOROSCOPES • 39 Cosmic Catataloguealogue Copyright ©2021 - Cassandra Tyndall Aries Leo Sagittarius March 21 - April 20 July 21 - August 20 November 21 - December 20 Spring Equinox brings pdating your personal style, hab- elationships of all kinds go he sense of joy and exuberance Uits or attitudes are on the cosmic Rthrough their ups and downs – Tyou’re renowned for may return agenda this week. If you’ve been con- that is a given! Despite your current this week. You might like to indulge newfound energy templating a new look, there is no time circumstances, you’ve got the oppor- in a personal hobby or creative out- Spring has now sprung and along with it, the impetus like the present. Spreading your social tunity to reignite your personal pas- let. More time spent with loved ones, for action, energy and momentum. As the snow begins wings is also highlighted. If you’ve sion and sense of purpose. You might including children and grandchildren to melt and the agitation within nature returns, you too been hemmed in for too long by the is possible. Romance is also high- be longing to travel far and wide again. might feel the itch to get moving with life. What will you weather, or by the state of affairs While that egg is still hatching, catch- lighted. So, whether you’re single or health-wise, it’s time for you to un- ing up with your friends, communities attached, a new cycle of excitement do? Where will you go? What will you achieve? With so leash the new you upon your friends and social networks may be just what and joy arrives with someone worth many more options available in comparison to this time and networks! As a new 18-month – you need right now. Connect with getting to know better. If you’ve been last year, you may be bursting at the seams to do it all! two-year cycle begins, what you start those who you know will keep your lacking in some of life’s most simple As busy Mars in Gemini brings plenty of options to the table, this week will continue to unfold. spirit lit and make you feel like the im- pleasures, then it’s now time to rem- you might feel anxious at the prospect of so many choices. The portant person you are. edy that situation. Taurus Virgo Capricorn The desire to make up April 21 - May 20 August 21 - September 20 December 21 - January 20 for lost time is real. hile the general vibe is onwards ith active Mars at the top of s the nose to the grindstone vibe Wand upwards, you’re still in Wyour chart, you might be ready Acontinues, you too will continue temptation to spread oneself too thin, saying “Yes” to all the a process of deep contemplation of to make waves at work, strike out in a working hard to achieve your goals things, or the desire to make up for lost time is real. what this all means for you. The Sun new direction or show someone who’s and ambitions. But, have you ever As indecision mounts, a breakthrough is possible, and you and your sovereign star, Venus, join boss! As a volatile and explosive en- asked yourself why? Is it because you might decide what’s worth committing to and what’s not. A forces this week in the darkest corner really need the money? Is it because ergy takes shape, you might come at lot can get done this week, but your challenge lies in limiting of your solar horoscope. New realiza- odds with a partner – at work or at you’re work-obsessed? Is it just be- tions about yourself may arrive, along home. You’ve got energy, motivation cause you can? This week, you may distractions. New beginnings are possible, especially regarding with the deep desire to escape from and momentum on your side right need to do a little soul-searching, es- compromises and agreements within your important relation- it all. If you can, take a little time out now. As the battle between your sharp pecially if you’re doing what you’re ships. The combination of extending an olive branch, while at just for yourself this week. A stayca- logic and someone else’s emotions doing to support your family. They the same time asserting your desires may be what prevents old tion, a digital detox or diving into a may clash, a compromise between dif- also need your time, attention and love patterns from circling back again. spiritual pursuit may be just what you fering desires may need to be made. too. Indulge in a few pleasures at home need now. with those you love most. RUTLAND’S PREMIERE Gemini Libra Aquarius May 21 - June 20 September 21 - October 20 January 21 - February 20 YOGA & PILATES STUDIO ou are redefining what it means recently read something online that ou’d be forgiven if you forgot Yto be busy right now. As new Iwas quite profound. “People pleasing Ywhat it means to have fun. First developments keep happening, it may is manipulating other people’s opinion the pandemic, then serious Saturn feel overwhelming, anxiety-inducing of you.” It was a mic-drop moment! moved into your sign and then a long, and exciting! While biting off more Libras are renowned for people-pleas- cold, dark winter. You may even be than you can chew is possible, just ing. It’s more a case of them prefer- beginning to forget what is means to take a moment – this is probably what ring to keep the peace and avoid con- shake a little salt on your life. Well, you’ve been waiting for, for such a flict – but at what cost? Creating a war it’s time to add some spice, and they long time. The level of personal or within yourself? If you’re fed up from say that starts with embracing variety. professional success you’re expe- constantly factoring in other people’s Try something new that piques your riencing right now is exactly what desires and putting yourself second, curiosity this week. What starts now you’ve worked for! Take a moment or even last – then why not try putting will likely set off a two-year cycle of 22 WALES STREET, RUTLAND, VERMONT to appreciate that and then get back fun, joy and happiness. yourself first for a change? It will be the Go online to see our full schedule: to work! profound moment you need too! trueyogavermont.com @trueyogavt Cancer Scorpio Pisces June 21 - July 20 October 21 - November 20 February 21 - March 20

ith your professional and over- uch of this week’s astro-action ou have a reputation for being all life direction sector lit up, happens in the less obvious areas Yoga W M Ydazed and confused sometimes. illington you might be wondering exactly of your solar chart. As you’re not one The fact is, you can make sense of @K where you’re going right now. Are to stand in the spotlight and demand ac- the things that others try and apply you where you want to be work-wise colades, you may actually prefer this. It logic, rather than feelings too. Funnily and in general? Are you feeling mel- will also be a sign that all the hard work enough, when it comes to cash, you’re ancholic because you’re not where behind the scenes, the effort and the sharp as a tack! As a new 18-month you hoped you’d be? Believe it or not, toil of recent months are finally paying money cycle begins, you might like to you’re in the midst of a new begin- dividends. A breakthrough in a financial set yourself new goals to boost your ning. What seems to be slow, behind matter is possible, or you may come to income or savings. If you’re feeling the scenes, or not gaining any traction a new realization of how you’ve been flush, this is a great week to treat -your actually is. You just need to believe in giving too much to something or some- self to a little indulgence. Live classes via Zoom. yourself a little more. one. A new cycle awaits. Online Schedule, check our website for updates: Monday 8 - 9 am Vinyasa KKarenaren DaluryDalury Tuesday 5 - 6 pm Basics Empowering you to lead a divinely inspired life. 33744744 RiverRiver Rd.Rd. Killington,Killington, VVTT Thursday 5 - 6 pm Vinyasa 802802-770-4101-770-4101 Friday 7 - 8 am Basics Cassandra has studied astrology for about 20 years. She is an international teacher of astrology who has been published all over the globe. Sunday 5 - 6 pm Yin KKillingtonYoga.comillingtonYoga.com Effective 11/25/2020 40 • Columns The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 Beavers: landscape engineers A few overlooked tax When my sisters visit from Ireland, I try to play tour guide, Light from the canopy gap and well-watered, rich soils sup- but I’m occasionally at a loss for what to do next. During a visit port lush communities of grasses and wildflowers called deductions in the late 1990s, my sister Grace said she would love to see a “beaver meadows,” which store an abundance of carbon. You should pay all taxes due – but not a penny more! You beaver. At that time, I lived close to This soil continues to build as grasses grow, live, and die. can then help others with the excess – how you decide. a beaver pond and often quietly wait- Beaver meadows may remain open for decades, even if Many taxpayers regularly overpay because they fail to ed for beaver sightings. Alas, the ro- the beavers don’t re-flood the area, due in part to a lack of take tax deductions for which they dents failed to cooperate for Grace’s mycorrhizae necessary for tree colonization. are eligible. Here are some over- visit, although she was able to see Another important physical impact on the landscape is looked opportunities to mitigate their engineering work. I was disap- the animals’ effect on groundwater. Beaver ponds are far your tax bill. pointed for her, but not surprised. deeper than undammed streams, and pond water saturates 1. Reinvested dividends: When Many of my own encounters ended surrounding soils. This raises the groundwater table for your mutual fund pays you a divi- with at most a fleeting glimpse, and a some distance around the pond. The pond, together with the dend or capital gains distribution, The Outside loud slap of a leathery tail on water. higher water table, stores a huge volume of water. During dry that income is a taxable event Story When I returned to the pond spells, water seeps from the pond and riparian water table to in a regular brokerage account By Declan years later, the beavers had departed sustain streamflow. Rainstorms that might otherwise have Money (not IRA). If you’re like most fund McCabe — but the dam remained. Seven quickly scoured and eroded streambanks recharge the pond Matters owners, you reinvest these pay- feet tall and made of sticks and mud, and water table. Flooding from small storms is contained by By Kevin Theissen ments in additional shares of the the dam had an upstream arch that the combined water storage capacity, and erosion caused by fund. The issue happens when spanned more than 50 feet of stream valley. According to Tom larger storms is reduced. you sell your mutual fund. If you Wessels in his book “Reading the Forested Landscape,” old bea- I was surprised to learn that beavers also live in — and en- fail to add the reinvested amounts back into the ver dams can last for decades. Wessels points out that beavers gineer — salt marshes. In his studies of beavers in Washington investment’s cost basis, it can result in double engineer more than mere dams, however. state, researcher Gregory Hood found the animals construct- taxation of those dividends. “Beavers are the only animals, other than humans, who will ing dams in tidal marshes that were submerged completely 2. Out-of-pocket charity: It’s not just cash donations create entirely new ecosystems for their own use,” he writes. during high tide but retained water as the tide went out. These that are deductible. If you donate goods or use “And often, like humans, once they have depleted an area’s dammed marshes provided far more habitat for juvenile fish your personal car for charitable work, these are resources, they will abandon their holdings and move on.” than similar marshes lacking beaver dams. Beavers some- potential tax deductions. Just be sure to get and Beyond dams and lodges, beavers sometimes dig canals times pay a high price for their marine existence, however. In keep receipts. to aid their movement, as well as a 2019 article, Ben Goldfarb (author to float saplings and limbs to stock of the popular book about beavers, their underwater larders. Some tree “Eager”) described beavers suffering species die after being drowned and dying from salt intoxication after It’s not just cash donations that in beaver-made ponds, becoming consuming too much sea water. are deductible. habitat for woodpeckers and other Although my sister and I didn’t wildlife. Some favored food trees, see beavers during our rambles in such as big-toothed aspen, resprout Vermont, Grace may now have some from their stumps, producing early hope for beaver sightings closer to 3. State taxes: Did you owe state taxes when you successional habitat and multiple home. In Scotland, the reintroduc- filed your previous year’s tax returns? If you did, delectable stems for beavers to eat. tion of beavers in 2009 has resulted in don’t forget to include this payment as a tax de- Eventually, when the beavers exhaust an increase in lake levels, higher re- duction on your current year’s tax return. their supply of food trees within easy tention of organic matter in streams, 4. Medicare premiums: If you are self-employed distance from their pond, they seek and reduced flooding. In 2016 the (and not covered by an employer plan or your out new wetlands. In their wake, they leave an enriched ecosys- Scottish government deemed the reintroduction a success, and spouse’s plan), you may be eligible to deduct pre- tem that benefits other wildlife. in 2019 declared beavers a protected species. It seems Scottish miums paid for Medicare Parts B and D, Medigap In areas where beavers can resettle along the same beavers are having positive impacts, much like their North insurance and Medicare Advantage Plan. This water system, their ponds can serve as aquatic habitats for American cousins. deduction is available regardless of whether you decades. Well established beaver populations provide a Declan McCabe teaches biology at Saint Michael’s Col- itemize deductions or not. complex combination of active ponds, abandoned ponds, lege. His book, “Turning Stones: Exploring Life in Freshwa- 5. Income in respect of a decedent: If you’ve inher- and beaver meadows in various phases of succession. ter,” will be published this spring by McDonald & Woodward. ited an IRA or pension, you may be able to deduct These create a diverse set of habitats that increases biologi- Illustration by Adelaide Murphy Tyrol. The Outside Story is any estate tax paid by the IRA owner from the cal diversity across the landscape. assigned and edited by Northern Woodlands magazine and taxes due on the withdrawals you take from the Abandoned beaver ponds accumulate silt and fallen sponsored by the Wellborn Ecology Fund of the New Hamp- inherited account. leaves, forming rich soil that eventually fills the pond basin. shire Charitable Foundation: nhcf.org. Kevin Theissen is the owner of HWC Financial in Ludlow. Easters of Yesteryear It’s hard to believe that it’s almost Easter. This holiday can feet. A perfect outfit for an 8-year-old girl! As was the custom you could take a short drive to Fair Haven and visit the Fac- fall any time between March 22 and April 25 (this year it’s back then, both my mother and I were wearing white gloves. tory Outlet Store where hat prices ranged from 86 cents to April 4). In Vermont the earlier dates mean the possibility of No doubt my father dropped off the two of us at the $1.96. In fact a young girl’s entire Easter outfit was a bargain snow on the ground. That just doesn’t church sidewalk as our shoes were not made for navigating at that store. Dresses could be purchased for between $1.84 seem like Easter! snow or ice. It was all about fashion back then! and $4.84. You could buy a young girl’s patent leather pock- In a picture from the 1950s my During that time period women were required to have etbook for 94 cents. mother was dressed for the occa- their heads covered during a Catholic Mass. That require- I have fond memories of going downtown on Good sion in a suit with a fur stole over ment was a bonus to The Mayfair, a millinery store, on Friday afternoon with my friend, Barbara. Our mission her shoulders. There was a cor- Center Street in Rutland. It was a fun store to visit and my was to get some of the little things that were needed sage pinned to the stole. In spite mother liked nice hats so we were in there quite often. to complete the Easter outfits for her and her younger of the snow around my mother’s Speaking of hats, many people from my era will remem- siblings. It was a rather long list as Barbara has three feet she was wearing high heels, ber a well known local woman named Mildred Accavallo. sisters and one brother. The girls needed such things Looking not boots. Of course, back then She attended our church and was definitely the “Queen of as: socks, white gloves and corsages. Woolworths had Back an Easter outfit wasn’t complete Hats.” They were a fashion statement in size and design and a small flower section where corsages could be made without a nice hat and my mother she wore them well. Among us kids she was referred to as using whatever color carnations we requested. Shopping By Mary Ellen Shaw had one of those. “Hats” and not by her name! for Barbara’s brother was easy. A new white shirt was In the same picture I was wear- I was curious to know what Easter hats cost back then. usually all he needed. Barbara’s mother was a wonderful ing a lightweight coat and Easter bonnet. My corsage was The Mayfair advertised their prices with a range from $5 to seamstress and the girls’ Easter dresses and coats were a pinned to my coat and shiny patent leather shoes graced my $25. For those who didn’t want to spend that much money Looking back > 43 The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 COLUMNS • 41 Time is what you make it I have been outspoken in my battle to rein in my son when can? Well, a survey in 2019 deter- tion was visceral. In fact, the first week it comes his time on digital devices, but some recent research mined that 81% of adults reported after I launched the app, he was abso- has me especially worried. I hate to say it, but if I were to do owning a smartphone. Factor in lutely miserable. But you know what? He it all over again – knowing what I the Covid pandemic and the fact got used to it. know now – I’m confident I would that the aforementioned survey is Now it’s just a part of our lives. If he not have introduced digital devices two years old, and it’s safe to say the wants to engage with his friends on into our household as early as I did. percentage has increased. Snapchat or detach for a little while to First of all, let’s define the most Even more startling is the statis- play a game, he knows he’s got to get common term used with this topic: tic that shows that American chil- some positive things accomplished “screen time.” dren age 13-18 are engaged with a ahead of time. He also knows that his “Screen time” is defined as the screen nearly 7.5 hours a day. My son time is limited and will shut down ac- amount of time spent using any is right in the heart of this age group cording to an exacting schedule. The Movie device with a digital screen, such as and if I weren’t on his case daily, he This week’s film, “Mank,” also fea- Diary a smartphone, a computer, a televi- would easily hit this disturbing num- tures a schedule, but in this case, it’s sion, or a video game console. Up ber (which is basically equivalent to a a schedule to write the screenplay for By Dom Cioffi until recently, screen time was an full-time job). one of the greatest movies in motion estimation of the time spent by an When I sensed that my son was picture history. adult or child on a device, but apps now exist (ironically) that being taken advantage of by devices Gary Oldman stars as Herman J. keep meticulous track of our personal usage while also offer- and apps intent on commandeering Mankiewicz, the heralded Hollywood ing strategies to limit or reduce the time in which we engage. his attention, I made every argument screenwriter that Orson Wells tapped So, why all the attention to the amount of time we in- in the world to try to persuade him to when he embarked on making his teract with digital devices? The simple answer: It’s just not cut back. I even had him sit down and epic 1941 drama, “Citizen Kane.” healthy for our minds or bodies. watch “The Social Dilemma,” which is Director Jack Fincher originally wrote the screen- Studies continue to show stronger and stronger correla- the single greatest exposé on the subject (and a documen- play for his son David to direct but died before anything tions between screen time and mental and physical health tary I highly recommend if you’re really interested in a deep was accomplished. Jump ahead 25 years and the young issues. There is also good evidence that screen time directly dive on the subject). Fincher has finally brought his father’s story to the big impacts child development, especially when you factor in He watched, he listened, he even agreed. To no avail, screen, and to great critical acclaim. excessive time and exposure to harmful or negative content. however. The devices and their ability to engage are simply “Mank” is up for 10 Academy Awards including Best Excessive screen time is also linked to sleep disorders too powerful, especially for a teenager with little or no expe- Picture and Best Actor. I was absolutely mesmerized by the in children, as well as behavioral issues, developmental rience in personal discipline. cinematography and cadence of this film. It’s made in the delays, and learning disabilities, with ever more convinc- In fact, the only thing I’ve found that helps curtail his us- classic Hollywood black and white style, but it’s still more ing data being released annually. age is the Screen Time app on his iPhone. I had heard about colorful than most films made today. And it’s not much better for adults where direct links the app but never really looked into until a friend admon- A positively distracting “A-” for “Mank.” (Available to between excessive screen time and depression and anxi- ished me for not using it. stream on Netflix.) ety are now well documented. So, I did a little research, figured out how it worked, and Got a question or comment for Dom? You can email him So, just how ubiquitous is screen time for the average Ameri- after an hour or so, turned it on. My son’s immediate reac- at [email protected]. The colors and fashion of Spring have arrived As the sky turns a bright blue and the be it’s because the bumps are out, and temps begin to rise, the special weirdness nothing says soft spring bumps like dust- that is spring skiing begins to show its ing the mothballs from your crinkly 80s true colors. Midwinter black and 90s gear with the almost- turns into a myriad, almost dead elastic. Bula bands in hideous bright colors. Every crazy patterns and overly tight single shade of everything is stretch pants pair hideously on display — and even some with some red, white and blue that might qualify more as CB jacket you’ve been saving an experience than an actual for just this occasion. You color. Your goggles need their might spot some BFA pants darkest lens to protect your that have survived the decades eyes from the beating sun ... Livin’ the or my personal favorite: hot and from that ridiculous shade Dream pink Tyrolia boot gaiters of yellow, which seems to paired with a simple black By Merisa glow off the soggy corn snow. skirt and the Vermont Flan- It seems fun, but will chew up Sherman nel pattern I’ve been wearing your skin upon since I was contact. ... spring skiing is full of so 12 years old. Whether it’s Iconic. That’s neon, pastels much color it can seem like the what we’re or just choos- mountain is vibrating looking for ing to put aside when we talk the classic with energy. about spring Vermont black, skiing outfits. spring skiing is full of so much color it can After months of being trapped behind seem like the mountain is vibrating with the simplicity of Gore-Tex, it’s time to energy. It could be because the Day-Glo party. Perhaps you’ve got the simple style one-piece next to me in the liftline is — swapping your ski jacket for a t-shirt: resonating nuclear or because splashes of either the tie dye Grateful Dead, a sky pink, yellow and green humming together blue Stray Flakes or the classic “I like Big in a pattern so noxious it could be in a Bumps” shirt from June 1 a couple years Warren Miller film. “There’s a rare one of ago. Bring it up a notch by upgrading to a a kind,” I can hear him say, “because who Hawaiian shirt complete with little skiers By Brooke Geery would ever buy the other one?” But may- Livin’ the dream > 43 What better way to get in the St. Patty’s day spirit than with matching onsies? 42 • ServiceService DirectoryDirectory The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

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Looking back: Easter fashions and norms have changed over the years, but it’s still special from page 40 fashion statement! over the next several days. But I always managed to eat The abovementioned trip downtown never happened un- the chocolate ears right away. I have to confess that I still til after 3 p.m. as most stores closed from 12-3 p.m. on Good do exactly that as my husband, Peter, has continued the Friday. Those hours represent the chocolate bunny tradition. What time of Christ’s crucifixion. I attended ... holidays are all about can I say? I’m a kid at heart! Christ the King School and all the And what would Easter be making happy memories students attended a church service for without a ham dinner? My mother Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Seasonal • Year-Round part of that time period. When the ser- that we can enjoy looking always cooked one and relatives vice was over we were asked to remain filled the seats at our dining room 802-422-2230 • redduckrefuse.com silent until 3 p.m. Not easy for a kid! back on over the years. table to enjoy a delicious meal. Easter Sunday Mass was a joyful Although the pandemic will no experience as we celebrated Christ rising from the dead. doubt cause smaller celebrations for everyone again After church we always went out for breakfast. I looked this Easter let’s hope that next year the gatherings can forward to getting home as I knew there would be an Eas- include as many people as we want. After all, holidays ter basket waiting for me. I was told that the chocolate are all about making happy memories that we can enjoy bunny and jelly beans would have to be stretched out looking back on over the years.

Livin’ the dream: Colors, costumes, sights and smells of spring skiing in Vermont from page 41 hidden in the pattern. Or send it hard #1 RENTAL AND MANAGEMENT OFFICE by skipping the shirt all together, rocking a pair of suspenders over IN KILLINGTON FOR 45+ YEARS your own human hair sweater. No matter what you choose to wear this spring, choose wisely • Vacation Rentals because that outfit will become your spring costume for years to come. • PRoPeRty ManageMent Seriously. It will define your entire ski career. Are you a serious spring • cleaning seRVices skier, sporting a Gore-Tex breath- able shell (a contradiction in terms) that you purchase in a different KILLINGTONGROUP.COM color every year? If so, I am kind of jealous of your ski closet right now. KILLINGTON ROAD - (802) 422-2300 Are you a traditionalist, where you simply pull out something you wore 30 years ago because you are excited to wear something that you’ve loved that long? Are you there for the the beach atmosphere, rocking a bikini top and only enough clothes to keep you safe? Or is this your day to be noticed — your strange combina- tion of bright color patterns easily recognizable amongst the sea of folk making their way down the bumped Clifford Funeral Home up terrain of Outer Limits? 2 Washington Street • Rutland, VT 05701 (802) 773-3010 No matter what outrageous color Gary H. Clifford • James J. Clifford combo you choose this spring, it really won’t matter by the time you get to the parking lot. Because by the DisasterRecoveryInc.com PITTSFORD, VERMONT end of the day, you and the inside of your car will be covered in one of two Water Wind Mold Fire things: dust or mud. Raining? You’ll be covered in mud from your flip- Flood Recovery • Smoke Odor flopped toes to your elbows. A mud Elimination • Carpet Cleaning so thick that you can hear ski boots Mold Remediation • Maid Cleaning getting sucked into it as you walk to By Merisa Sherman the car. Hasn’t rained in days? You’ll Rocking the gaiter tan is a sure sign spring has arrived! Services • Total Restoration be dusting the rocks off your park- 24 Hour Service ing lot burger every time the wind lifts splattered with “snirt” and oil. hide behind our bright colors and the Fully insured and certifi ed Don't just restore...RECOVER! rages by even if you turn your back to The trails are getting narrower, and beers we’ve had in the parking lot. protect it. Resistance is futile. the dirt encroaches on the sides. We Spring skiing isn’t just a season, it’s a celebration of our entire way of life. 131 Woodstock Ave, No matter what outrageous color combo you Sure you love skiing — but do you Rutland, VT 05701 love it enough to wear some ridicu- (802) 662-2886 choose this spring, it really won’t matter by the lous outfit that makes no sense while www.autocraftvt.com time you get to the parking lot. covered in mud and beating the crap out of yourself through the moguls? From tank tops to no tops and ev- There is no escape. Even the snow know the season is ending, we’re ski- erything in between, we revel in the is covered in mud as it seeps down ing in snow soup and snow so dirty vibrancy of this season. We each love Diagnosis • Repair • Maintenance • Fabrication the trail like tears. Those 40-year-old we have to wash our skis rather than skiing in our own way and nothing We special iz e in eu ropean veh icl es pink pants are worn out, not from wax them. shows that more than the colors of bumping, but from sitting on chair- But we pretend not to notice as we spring. Ski ya out there! 44 • The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

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Appraisers Association. maintain Temple Sinai’s special training in buyer PRESTIGE REAL ESTATE use for staff (35k income Royal Barnard 802-775- Religious School Program representation to ensure a of Killington, 2922 Killington HANDYMAN, Woodward 2020). Great Rutland 0085. in person and/or through positive buying experience. Rd., Killington. Specializing Handyman services. Light County location. Owner will a web-based program for Looking to sell? Our unique in the listing & sales of carpentry, decks, minor WE BUY Levis and finance with conventional the 2021-22 school year. marketing plan features your Killington Condos, Homes, electrical and plumbing, USA denim at Camille’s terms. Operate as currently This is a one-year part-time very own website. 802-422- & Land. Call 802-422-3923. renovation and more. If it Experienced Clothing in configured or get in at position with the possibility 3600, KillingtonPicoRealty. prestigekillington.com. has to do with a house, I can Rutland. Now taking spring fair value to convert to of future employment. com 2814 Killington Rd., fix it. Call Bill- 413-218-7364. and summer consignment YOUR dream concept. SKI COUNTRY REAL Temple Sinai’s Religious Killington. (next to Choices 802-773-0971 Priced under assessment, ESTATE, 335 Killington Rd., FREE TAX Assistance for School aims to help our Restaurant). 599k. Contact killington Killington. 802-775-5111. seniors and low-to-middle students experience a [email protected]. 747 THE PERFORMANCE SkiCountryRealEstate.com – income younger taxpayers joyful, meaningful, Killington Road. GROUP real estate 1810 11 agents servicing: Killington, is being offered by Rutland inclusive Judaism rooted Killington Rd., Killington. 802- Bridgewater, Mendon, AARP TaxAide volunteers in the principles of the 422-3244 or 800-338-3735, Pittsfield, Plymouth, certified by IRS. Taxes Reform Movement. We vthomes.com, email info@ Stockbridge, Woodstock done BY APPOINTMENT combine hands-on tactile vthomes.com. As the name areas.Sales & Winter ONLY. Call 775-8220 for learning, classroom implies “We perform for you!” Seasonal Rentals. Open appointment. conversation, tikkun Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 olam and creative p.m. Sunday by appointment. projects with a Jewish values - centered curriculum. Experience t Home Senior Care with Jewish education and virtual platforms required. 6 | info@athomesenior Masters in education preferred. Hebrew language familiarity preferred. Send inquiry: positions Celebating Our Caregivers @templesinaivt.org Our caregivers are professionals in their fi eld. They have the compelling gift of serving, VERMONT STATE parks communicati ng, and giving unconditi onally. At Home Senior Care recognizes and honors are hiring for summer our dedicated,Celebrating front-line professionals caringOur for the Caregivers most vulnerable in their homes. positions! Weekend work required. Free camping and other perks. Apply online vtstateparks.com/jobs VILLAGE SNACK Bar —Rutland is hiring all positions. Great fun working environment. Please forward a resume for review to berniemiles802@yahoo. com. Opening April 1.

ALPINE BIKE Works is hiring for multiple Summer Seasonal Retail Shop positions. All shifts available. Please apply at alpinebikeworks.com under the jobs tab. Join Our Team! CASHIER WANTED Evening. PT/FT/Year Members of our caregiving team enjoy the following benefi ts: round. Competitive wage. • Competi ti ve wages with less stress • Career Ladder opportuniti es within the company Killington. Please call 802- Health Insurance for Eligible Employees • Sense of fulfi llment knowing you made a 558-0793. • Full-ti me, part-ti me, temporary and per diem diff erence opportuniti es to fi t your schedule Safe environment with COVID protocols/ DELI HELP WANTED: Deli • Paid Training & Orientati on educati on in place for caregiver and clients Clerk, line cook. Experience APPLY TODAY! would be great, but if you enjoy working with food, we Call 802-768-8565 or Apply online at www.athomescvt.clearcareonline.com/apply 4854 will train. Competitive wage. Main St. Manchester Center, VT 05255 • 173 Court St, Middlebury, VT 05753 Please call 802-558-0793. 14 S Main St. Rutland, VT 05701 athomeseniors.net | | [email protected] 802-747-3426 Classifieds > 45 The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 CLASSIFIEDS / REAL ESTATE • 45

Classifieds:classifi[email protected] from page 44 This newspaper will not KILLINGTON RESORT is knowingly accept any looking for a Maintenance / advertisement which Guest Services Technician is in violation of the law. for our Condo’s. Full Time Our readers are hereby Year Round with benefits and informed that all dwellings great mountain perks. For advertised in this newspaper more information and to are available on an equal view all of our open positions opportunity basis. If you feel visit www.killington.com/ you’ve been discrimination Visit our office at jobs, (800)300-9095 EOE against, call HUD toll-free at 1810 Killington Rd, Killington KILLINGTON RESORT 1-800-669-9777. HOUSEKEEPING is in need of staff for both the hotel and Condos. Training provided. Free transportation on The Ready To Serve Your Bus. For more information and to view all of our open positions visit www.killington. Want to com/jobs , (800)300-9095 Real Estate Needs EOE submit a KILLINGTON GRAND classified? HOTEL HEALTH CLUB is Our Professional Team in need of an attendant. Ski or play in the morning Email classifieds@ work evening shift 2pm- mountaintimes.info or call 10pm. For more information 802-422-2399. Rates are 50 and to view all of our open cents per word, per week; positions visit www.killington. free ads are free. com/jobs , (800)300-9095 EOE HOUSEKEEPER WANTED- Locally owned and growing cleaning company Augie Stuart Gary Thompson Cathy Quaglia seeks daytime/evening Principal Broker Associate Broker Associate Broker housekeepers to join our [email protected] team. Position to start [email protected] [email protected] immediately. Full time and (802) 353-0460 (802) 779-2722 (802) 345-3797 Part time position available. Weekends may be required on occasion. Must have a valid driver’s license and Sellers and Buyers car or be able to use public transportation to/from work. The ideal candidate will Contact us for the Best Representation. possess: One (1) year of Fantastic opportunity to work with a great team. experience, a willingness Now accepting applications for Request your free Market Evaluation. to learn; ability to adapt; BARTENDERS, COOKS and listening skills; good DISHWASHERS. customer service skills; focus on teamwork; reliability; Competitive wages, fast paced environment. We know the Real Estate World of the Killington Region organizational skills; integrity Submit resumes to: [email protected], and honesty; high energy apply on our Facebook page levels. Several opportunities or stop in for an application. for advancement within 802-674-4180 • 26 Depot Ave, Windsor VT 05089 • We Are All about YOU, the company. Contact: www.windsorstationvt.com Mike Coppinger, mike@ Your Time, Your Needs killingtongroup.com, (802) 422-3200. and Your Mountain Home TOWN OF BRIDGEWATER • Performance based Service EQUAL FULL TIME POSITION that You can Trust and HOUSING HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT Rely on The Town of Bridgewater is accepting OPPORTUNITY applications for a full-time highway employee with knowledge of highway equipment, All real estate and rentals general maintenance and repairs. The advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal qualified candidate must have a current Fair Housing Act of 1968 CDL, clean driving record and understands as amended which makes that the position also includes random drug it illegal to advertise “any and alcohol testing. Duties include summer preference, limitation or discrimination based on and winter maintenance of roads and race, color, religion, sex, bridges. Overtime required during adverse handicap, family status, weather conditions. Starting pay of $20.00 www.vthomes.com national origin, sexual per hour and offers an excellent benefit orientation, or persons email: [email protected] receiving public assistance, package after 30 days. Applications can be or an intention to make such found on the town website or picked up at P: 802-422-3244 preferences, limitation or the Bridgewater Town Office. EOE discrimination.” 46 • REAL ESTATE The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021

Celebrating 802.775.5111 32 years! 335 Killington Rd. Killington, VT 05751 Lenore Bianchi HEMLOCK RIDGE TOWNHOUSE LOCATION & OPEN FLOOR PLAN

• 2-Level END UNIT, • 3BR, 3BA, office area, 3BR/2BA, 1,320 sq.ft. storage space, wood • Fieldstone gas fireplace, floors, lg. fireplc & BRIDGEWATER ‘tricia hearth, family room Carter open floor plan Building lot, 1+ acres - Gold Coast Road • In unit laundry, deck, new • Paved driveway, 2-car propane heater garage;Turn-key home, - $49,900 • $ 269K furnished & equipped; Home freshly painted, inside & out ; Winter retreat or full-time home $664K MOUNTAIN GREEN SKI IN-SHUTTLE OUT – HIGHRIDGE Meghan MENDON Charlebois • 1 BR unit w/wood 2+ acres – Cortina Country Road - $49,000 • BLDG #3: 1BR $115,000 burning fplc • Onsite: Indoor & Outdoor Pools, • Sports Center: Whirlpl, Restaurant, Ski & Gift Indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, Merisa Shops, Pilate Studio, Racquet- ON DEPOSIT ROCHESTER Sherman exercise room ball/basketball; Shuttle Bus • $149,000 10+ acres – Town Line Road - $75,000

8.5 acres – Oak Lodge Road - $45,000 INCOME OPPORTUNITY - PITTSFIELD 8 BEDROOM/ 4.5 BATH KILLINGTON HOME

Pat Linnemayr • *Multi-family: • Legitimate 8 BR 3BR/1.5 BA • Mountain range views, STOCKBRIDGE spacious parking • Laundry, gas fireplace, • Stone fireplace, great 151 acres – 360 degree views – South Hill Road • large kitchen and deck neighborhood - $998,000 • 1BR/1BA easy access • Off of a paved town road Chris • Oversized garage w/loft • Close to Killington Road 2+ acres – Old Log Road - $29,000 Bianchi • $245K • $ 549,000

Building lot – 1+ acres – Bix Road - $24,900 SUNRISE - SKI IN & OUT SOUTH FACING + TWO-CAR GARAGE • 2BR/2BA, 1-LEVEL 988 sf, • 3BR/4BA, well- Katie maintained home. McFadden End Unit Looking for land? Looking for If you are looking for land to build, quite a few • New: Boiler, appliances, slider Master suite w/tub & & flooring; Updated kitchen & shower, valley views, of these properties have State WW permits in baths. On Site: indoor & out- den/office, laundry place. Contact us for more information. door pools,hot tub,exercise ON DEPOSIT room, exercise rm, ON DEPOSIT rm, tennis courts, x-country & recreation rm w/bath, Michelle mtn bike trails. $319K kitchen w/island, storage rm, garage w/loft, front & back Lord decks, etc. $489K SKI TO & FROM, SUNRISE “SUN DOG TRAIL” See videos of all our listings on 2814 Killington Rd. • WEST GLADE, UPDATED, 1-LvL, 2BR/2BA YouTube! 802-422-3600 • SKI TRAIL less than 100’ to Deck ® Kerry REALTOR Dismuke • SKI TRAIL VIEW from DINING-LIVING-DECK www.KillingtonPicoRealty.com • 952 S.F.., MUDROOM/ENTRY, LAUNDRY, • COMMON AREA: INDOOR/OUTDOOR POOLS, ON DEPOSIT • SAUNA, WHIRLPOOL, EXERCISE EQUIP, POND • NO STAIRS TO CLIMB, FURNISHED $340K

Patrick Bowen EXECUTIVE VACATION HOME Over 140 Years • Spectacular Killington 5BR/4.5 BA home Experience in the Kyle Kershner Jessica Posch Daniel Pol Joseph Kozlar Jane Johnson, Edward Herson • Architectural features, spacious kitchen • Southern exposure, massive stone fplc Killington Region Broker/Owner Realtor Associate Realtor ALHS, ASP(r) Lic. Assoc. • 2 living areas, game rm, 2-car garage MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

Broker Realtor R.E. Broker ® Carolyn REALTOR MLS Bianchi • Panoramic mtn ski trail views $1,425,000

PEAK NOW ACCEPTING NEW LISTINGS! CONTACT US FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS! PROPERTY GROUP AT 802.353.1604 VTPROPERTIES.NET HERE IS YOUR CHANCE TO OWN 600+ Acres of Vermont Paradise, IDEAL PROPERTIES CLOSE TO Former Birdseye Mountain Ski Resort (1324’ Vertical Drop). Property is ideal for back-country enthusiasts. Castleton River access. Strong KILLINGTON, OKEMO OR WOODSTOCK! development potential for Private or Public Ski/ MTN Resort. Close to Rutland Regional Airport (RUT), AMTRAK Station (CNV) , and 1 Mile to HOMES | CONDOS | LAND Castleton Village/ University. Let your imagination run WILD! $1,900,057 COMMERCIAL | INVESTMENT PRIME SPOT IN WOODSTOCK. Located a minute to Woodstock Village and Marsh-Billings- Rockefeller National Park. Circa 1771 “Hillside” is a special property on over 31+ acres with beautiful views. The 5 bedroom/ 4 bath Farmhouse is the perfect place to Marni Rieger Tucker A. Lange Samantha Ecke Alexandra Lemesciuc entertain. The huge barn could 802.353.1604 303.818.8068 802.661.8069 802.779.3642 be a great place to have a home business, artist studio or renovate [email protected] it as extra recreation or sleeping ONE MINUTE TO PICO! BRAND NEW HOME. 59 Central Street, Woodstock VT space. Close to Suicide Six and 20 3 bed/3 bath w/2 car garage. Property abuts minutes to Killington. $899K state land. MUST SEE! $529K 505 Killington Road, Killington VT The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 REAL ESTATE • 47

61 ALPINE DR, PICO MTN

This top floor, end unit provides a just the right amount of privacy, while still being in the heart of the Pico Condominiums. Relax in the sun drenched living room while looking at Pico Mountain views through the sky light windows. 2 bedrooms and one bath, comfortable living area features cathedral ceilings, fireplace. Just a few steps outside the door and you’re riding the Little Pico Triple Chair. $279,000

Bret Williamson Judy Storch Sarah Vigneau Alan Root BROKER, OWNER BROKER REALTOR® REALTOR® 802-422-3610 killingtonvalleyrealestate.com Prestige Real Estate of Killington Exclusively Killington! CONDOS 3000+ sqft ski in/ski out townhomes Spectacular Bear Mt ski trail views High Ridge Topridge 4-bedrooms, 4-baths, 2-car heated garage Starting at $1,750,000

Heidi Bomengen

1BR/1BA 3BR/4BA ski in/ski out Updated kitchen Townhome w/VIEWS! $159,500 $850,000 Artist rendering subject to change Artist rendering subject to change LAND HOMES 2020’S TOP PRODUCING Trailside Drive .8 acres in Mountainside REAL ESTATE AGENCY Access to sewer system Direct ski in/ski Kaitlyn Hummel Great mountain views out access to IN KILLINGTON Ski home/ Ski out to bus Great Eastern $340K On .9 acres Custom designed We're different! ------single-family 10 acre building lot in home Exclusively specializing in Killington 5BR/6BA Killington basin w/5BR Internet movie property sales and providing permit $198K theatre unrivaled customer service. $2,700,000 Liz Pulsifer Sailer

2922 Killington Road 802‑422‑3923 www.prestigekillington.com 48 • The Mountain Times • March 24-30, 2021 THE BIGGEST BUMPS HAPPEN AT THE BEAST SPRING PASS ON SALE NOW, $269

Sun, soft snow, bumps and the King of Spring. Get unlimited spring skiing and riding through the end of the season for the price of 2 lift tickets. Buy now at killington.com