The CharlotteNewsVT.org Vol. 63, no.14 January 14, 2021 Charlotte News Your nonprofit community news source since 1958 Twins! CVFRS delivers An astonishing result Chea Waters Evans Claudia Marshall but even though it’s hackneyed, in this case, NEWS EDITOR PUBLISHER it’s certainly true.

A regular Monday morning turned into an Thank you. An equally big “thank you,” goes to the extraordinary one this week for Willa and Eric The Charlotte News just wrapped up the most people who have given their time and talents Lampman. Thirty-five weeks and six days successful fund drive in its history--and that’s to the paper voluntarily. That includes nearly into her pregnancy with twins, Willa went into because of you. 130 writers, photographers and proofreaders, labor at their home in Charlotte and ended up who have all pitched in to make The Charlotte delivering the babies shortly afterward—one We started our campaign October 29 with a News what it is: a community newspaper by while they were still at home. “It’s wild!” Wil- report in this paper reminding folks that we the people of Charlotte and for the people of la said. She and both babies are doing great. are an independent, nonprofit community Charlotte. newspaper devoted to telling the authentic While getting her day started with her stories of Charlotte. We work to connect this So thank you for stepping up and helping us 22-month-old son, Willa felt a contraction at community and I believe that connection is meet the challenges of these times. Thank you 7:45 a.m. and made a call to her obstetrician more critical than ever. to our stalwart advertisers who have stood at University of Vermont Medical Center. “By by us and expressed their support for the the sound of my breathing she was like, you’re Clearly, you feel that way, too. community, even when times are tough. not going to make it, you need to call 911,” In the last two months of the Thank you to the Friends of the Willa said. year, we received more than Charlotte News who work quietly to support the paper behind the It’s a good thing they called when they did— 280 voluntary donations and almost double the amount scenes. Thanks to members of even though Charlotte Volunteer Fire and our board of directors, who Rescue Services showed up before 10 minutes of money raised in our year-end campaign the have given both time and had passed, baby number one was almost money to ensure the paper’s there. Luckily, Eric’s mother was able to come previous year. The number of brand-new donors in success. Thank you to the over in time to pick up their older son before staff, who work way too hard first responders’ ambulance arrived. 2020: 166. To my mind, that’s an astonishing result given and turn out a great paper 25 “I thought we were going to get in the ambu- these uncertain times. I take it as times each year. lance and go to the hospital, and I was going a vote of confidence that this paper is I recently read an interesting article by a to get an epidural, and we were going to have delivering (um, no pun intended) the news you research scientist about the difference between a baby,” Willa said. Because her daughter was need on the page and online. optimism and hope. Optimism is considered still in the breech position, she was expecting Part of the fund drive’s success is most a tendency to see the glass half full, while a birth by C-section anyway. But it wasn’t to hope is a practice of working to make good be. certainly due to a matching grant which we expect to receive worth $11,500, and it must things happen. Here at The Charlotte News, When CVFRS Deputy Fire Chief Rob Mullin be mentioned that our board of directors we have certainly seen the people of Charlotte and AEMT Arron Barney arrived, two mem- ponied up another $11,000 as a matching demonstrate their hope for this newspaper and this community by donating generously. It’s bers of the Lampman family were on the floor Rhodes Lampman and her brother, who arrived grant. in the bathroom—one giving moral support, so unexpectedly he doesn’t quite have a name gratifying and humbling. one in serious labor—and a third was on her yet, made a dramatic entrance into the world All of these contributions will make it possible for us to grow our coverage of the Our board of directors is discussing ways we way. Monday with the assistance of CVFRS. can thank the town for its support…in addition Photos by Eric and Willa Lampman issues that matter most in Charlotte and of the people who live here. You and me, in other to putting out a paper we can all be proud of 25 times per year. As always, watch these see BABIES page 15 words. That old saying, “We’re all in this together” has been bandied about a lot lately, pages for details. Zoning administrator, town Pineapple sign stolen from agree to part ways Inn at Charlotte Chea Waters Evans resignation would be effective Jan. 1 Chea Waters Evans pending a formal, irrevocable resignation “The Selectboard wishes to offer you an letter due no later than Jan. 4. Morgan’s paid The pineapple is commonly known as a sign opportunity to voluntarily resign your administrative, which began on Dec. 23, of hospitality; last week, someone did a most employment under a separation agreement.” ended at that time. unhospitable thing to the owner of the Inn at A separation agreement ends Zoning Charlotte. The inn’s landmark carved-wood Administrator Daniel Morgan’s 18-month Under the terms of the separation pineapple sign was stolen in the night; the term with the Town of Charlotte. Delivered agreement, Morgan was held to town owner, Duker Bower, who also lives on the to Morgan by the Selectboard on Dec. 31 employment terms and was still under property, is hoping to get it back—and if that’s and ratified by the board on Jan. 4, the Bloch’s supervision, but he was ordered not not possible, to see if anyone has a photo of agreement ends months of back and forth to go to work or perform any town work it. He’d like to have the memory of it, and he between the ZA and the town over the terms unless specifically directed to do so. Morgan can’t afford to buy a new sign. of his employment. also agreed that he would not communicate Bower said that he noticed the sign was with any town personnel unless directed to, missing on Dec. 17, and figured it must have The fourth ZA in seven years, Morgan was and that he would continue to “cooperate been stolen in the early hours at that morning, hired in the summer of 2018 for several and communicate” with the Selectboard as when traffic past the Route 7 and State Park jobs within Town Hall that added up to a requested. Road inn was quiet and the Charlotte winter The Inn at Charlotte sign was stolen using bolt full-time position. As ZA, Morgan operated sky was dark. “It wasn’t that easy to steal,” cutters. as his own department with quasi-judicial Photo by Ronan Evans Morgan received a severance as part of the Bower said. “It had four chains holding it into authority; in his other jobs as clerk to the separation agreement that amounted to three position…they must have had a bolt cutter or elements. It featured the name of the inn and Zoning Board of Adjustment, the town months of regular payroll for 40 hours a something.” a carved pineapple, which Wells enhanced E-911 coordinator, and the sewage control week of work, plus $5,000 within 15 days with cut metal letters placed on posts so they officer, he was under the supervision of of the agreement’s ratification. He also The sign, which Bower, who is an artist, became three-dimensional. Town Administrator Dean Bloch. received payment for unused vacation leave. designed, cut, and painted himself, was made by Monkton artist and sign maker Homer The separation agreement between Morgan Wells, who works with metals and auto paint and the town stipulates that Morgan’s to create works of art that can withstand the see ZONING page 7 see SIGN page 15 The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 3 Town LURs wend their way to the ballot; budget has to budge a bit Chea Waters Evans be built in the area, there was no guarantee We’re losing smart, that it would actually be inhabited by Charlotters. With three meetings in eight days, the “capable senionrs The Charlotte News Selectboard is just about on track for time Alex Bunten, who also lives in the East Mission Statement spent getting the budget and ballot items because there’s no Village, said he was concerned that The mission of The Charlotte News is to inform our ready for Charlotters. With Land Use Charlotte was making itself into a “lab rat” readers about current events, issues and topics, and Regulation amendments on track to make with zoning and density changes in the East to serve as a forum for the free exchange of views of damn place to live town residents and community volunteer organizations it to a vote this spring, and around $70,00 Village, and that he thought any changes on matters related to Charlotte and the lives of its that needs to be shaved off the budget, when they can’t take made should apply to all village zones in residents. there’s a lot to talk about. the town, not just the east. He also said he Editorial independence was concerned that the amendments were Land Use Regulation amendments care of a big colonial The Board of Directors retains full authority over all being proposed in order to accommodate editorial and advertising content in The Charlotte The Planning Commission has been one landowner. News. While we are funded by advertising revenue working on amendments to LURs since house anymore. and donor contributions, our news judgments are 2008, Chair Peter Joslin said. There ” East Charlotter and Planning Commission made in accordance with our mission and independent were over 70 to consider, and the PC ─ Clark Hinsdale member Bill Stuono concurred that of all sources of financial support, including support given through our affiliated 501(c)3 organization, The divided them into three buckets for ease some of the proposed amendments in the Friends of The Charlotte News. of discussion and to make it easier for ECVCD troubled him as well. “We’re the town to vote: Act 250, which deals Letters, Commentaries and Obituaries undermining out own senior and affordable Consistent with our mission The Charlotte News with accessory on-farm businesses; housing ordinances,” he said, noting publishes letters to the editor, commentaries and expansion of the East Charlotte Village house on the south west corner of Charlotte that current LURs already make density obituaries from our readers. All letters, commentaries Commercial District; and some more allowances for different types of housing. and obituaries are subject to review and approval by Hinesburg Road and Spear Strteet, to be the news editor of the paper and to the following rules mundane housekeeping and minutiae- included in the ECVCD so it can be zoned related changes that often come down to Hinsdale grew frustrated at one point, and standards: commercially so he can develop in one- saying he had been villainized, and saying • Letters to the editor, commentaries and obituaries wording and specifics of language. Much acre as opposed to five-acre lots. He said he should be emailed to news@thecharlottenews. of the discussion comes down to the age- to Bunten, “Alex, if you want to stop it, org as attachments in .doc format. All letters, also would need to be able to build septic stop it. I can put a for sale sign on [the commentaries and obituaries must contain the old, perennial conundrums: how much underneath the road. writer’s full name, town of residence and, for development in Charlotte is too much, and Sheehan property] and sell it to a developer editing purposes only, phone number. how can the town keep growing in ways Hinsdsale pointed out that he has, over who doesn’t give a damn about Charlotte’s • Letters may not exceed 300 words, obituaries 500 future.” words and commentaries 750 words. that keep it vital for generations to come? the past 35 years, conserved land around • The opinions expressed in commentaries and the perimeter of the East Village area, and The LURs will be discussed at one more letters to the editor belong solely to the author Though the East Charlotte Village is the that his intent all along was to improve and are not to be understood as endorsed by most controversial of the three buckets, public hearing at a Selectboard meeting either the Board of Directors or the editorial staff Charlotte for Charlotters, particularly on January 25 before they are finalized of the paper. at the Friday, Jan. 8 meeting and public seniors. “We’re losing smart, capable • All published letters and commentaries will comment regarding LURs, the Selectboard and put on the ballot in March on Town include the writer’s name and town of residence. senionrs because there’s no damn place Meeting Day. • Before publishing any obituary, we will need saved that topic for last. Proponents of to live when they can’t take care of a big proper verification of death. expanding the ECV’s possibilities for colonial house anymore,” he said. Town budget • All submissions are subject to editing for clarity, development say that it’s been a long time factual accuracy, tone, length and consistency It’s no lie, the people of Charlotte don’t with our house publishing style. coming to bring the village on that side Selectboard member Louise McCarren said like big budgets, and during a pandemic • Whenever editing is necessary we will make of town up to par with the West Village; she is on board with Hinsdale’s efforts to that shows no sign of waning and an every effort to publish each submission in its opponents say that the rural character could develop in the East Village. “It’s critical entirety and to preserve the original intent and uncertain economic future for many, the wording. We will confer with writers before be compromised by too much development and I support it,” she said. Planning Selectboard is committed to keeping the publishing any submitted material that in our and that they are wary of the impact it Commission Chair Peter Joslin noted that budget as flat as possible. In general, the judgment requires significant editing before it can be published. could have on that section of town. little had changed in the East Charlotte town budget breaks down with 1/3 going • The news editor makes the final determination Village over the past ten years and said, to the road commissioner’s budget, 1/3 whether a letter to the editor, a commentary or an During Friday’s meeting, landowner Clark “The town has to grow.” obituary will be published as submitted, returned Hinsdale, who said he is one of seven going to Charlottte Volunteer Fire and for rewriting or rejected. major landowners who would be most David Adsit, an East Charlotte resident, Rescue, and the remaining third is split Publisher: Claudia Marshall affected by the ECVCD amendments, said he’s not sure the town has to grow approximately in half with payroll and ([email protected]) spoke about his goals for his property in the way Hinsdale and the LUR other employee expenses and the remaining Editorial Staff committees in town. Managing Editor: Anna Cyr in East Charlottte: senior and affordable amendments are proposing, noting that a ([email protected]) housing and a vibrant village area that 2010 PC survey of East Charlotte residents All fall and winter, town entities have been News Editor: Chea Waters Evans only tells part of the story about the need ([email protected]) brings the east side of town up to par presenting their budgets to the Selectboard Contributing Editor: Edd Merritt with the West Village. He said in order for growth in that area. The proposed and then coming back with new, smaller Copy editor: Beth Merritt to develop his property to achieve those changes to the commercial district, he said, figures, and there’s still about $70,000 left Proofreaders: Edd Merritt, goals, he needs his property, the Sheehan “are a direct affront to the people in East Mike & Janet Yantachka to go. Business Staff Charlotte” who said they were opposed to Ad manager: Christy Hagios development in the area. He said that most Monday’s meeting saved about half of that, ([email protected]) people he knew who lived in the area liked with $10,000 optimistically removed from Bookkeeper: Susan Jones ([email protected]) it how it is now. the legal budget, and CVFRS volunteering to lower its reserve fund to $95,000. Board Members He said the current impact research “isn’t President: Claudia Marshall The final opportunity for Charlotters to ([email protected]) enough information to be making these Treasurer: Ted leBlanc changes,” and said that one of his concerns weigh in on the budget before it goes to a ([email protected]) that though affordable senior housing might vote is at the Jan. 25 Selectboard meeting. Board members: Vince Crockenberg, Bob Bloch, Gay Regan, Tom Tiller, John Quinney, Jack Fairweather, Christina Asquith, Ben Miller, Bailey Grattelo, John Hammer (emeritus) Technical advisor: Melissa Mendelsohn, Orchard Road Computers Website: thecharlottenews.org Subscription Information The Charlotte News is delivered at no cost to all Charlotte residences. Subscriptions are available for first-class delivery at $60 per calendar year. Want a subscription? Please send a check payable to The Charlotte News, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445. Postmaster/Send address changes to: The Charlotte News P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 Telephone: 425-4949 Circulation: 2,000 Copyright © 2021 The Charlotte News, Inc. Member of the New England Newspaper and Press Association, LION Publishers and the Vermont Press Association. 4 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News Report from the Legislature A new beginning As the world reacted make a course correction immediately. I Majority Leader Alison Clarkson. Senator in shock to the events hope that the nation can begin to resolve Randy Brock was elected as the Republican unfolding in Washing- our deep political differences starting today. Minority Leader. ton, D.C. on January 6, In his address to the Legislature, Gover- the Vermont Legislature Here in Vermont the Legislature began its nor Scott acknowledged the necessity of was convening for the work not in the usual fashion with pomp working remotely, keeping meetings open 2021–2022 biennium. and circumstance in a packed chamber with to the public online, and working together Rep. Mike The storming of the friends and relatives looking on as mem- for the benefit of all Vermonters. He said Yantachka U.S. Capitol for the first bers, new and returning, were sworn in, that while the pandemic brought heartache time since the War of 1812 by a mob egged but from our own homes over Zoom. The to many, it also showed that Vermonters on by a self-serving President, who refused House unanimously elected its Speaker, care for each other. This care has made to recognize that he lost the election, drew Representative Jill Krowinski of Burl- Vermont more successful in controlling the strong reactions throughout Vermont’s state ington, as well as the Clerk of the House, spread of the virus than many other states. government. That afternoon Governor Scott Betsy Ann Wrask. Members were assigned While we cannot know when life will get condemned the lawlessness and called for to committees, and resolutions were passed back to normal, there is a light at the end of the President’s immediate resignation or to formalize the rules and procedures under the tunnel because of the vaccines that are removal from office. which the Legislature will operate while the pandemic emergency order is in place. now available and being distributed. He re- The following day the Vermont House iterated his long-standing goals of growing passed with a vote of 130 to 16 a resolution Traditionally, the governor would give his the economy, protecting the vulnerable, and sponsored by Democrats, Republicans, inaugural speech to a joint session of the making Vermont more affordable, goals Progressives and Independents calling for House and Senate in the House chamber. that are shared by legislators as well. The the same. (The text of the resolution can be This year, in the midst of the coronavirus hard work now begins on how to achieve pandemic, Governor Scott chose to deliver Vermont State House. found at https://legislature.vermont.gov/ Photo by Mike Yantachka those goals. bill/status/2022/J.R.H.1.) In my lifetime, the speech on television in the evening. He I welcome your emails (myantachka.dfa@ only the 9/11 attack on our nation’s capital did briefly address the joint session online er Emily Long of Newfane, Republican gmail.com) or phone calls (802-233-5238). compares, and this time it was against the earlier in the afternoon, congratulating the Minority Leader Pattie McCoy of Poultney, This article and others can be found at my Constitution and our democracy itself by historic ascension of women to almost all and Progressive Minority Leader Selene website (MikeYantachka.com). our own citizens. This is not what Ameri- the leadership positions in the Legislature. Colburn of Burlington. The Senate is led by ca stands for, and we need the country to In the House they include Speaker Jill Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray, President Krowinski, Democratic Majority Lead- Pro Tempore Becca Balint, and Democratic Lettters to the Editor U.S. should sign treaty to ban The treaty also expresses in its preamble the generous support from so many of not who we are or what position we hold, nuclear weapons deep concern “about the catastrophic you. The donations of cash, warm winter each of us has a responsibility in our own humanitarian consequences that would clothing, and local business and nonprofit individual lives to think before we speak To the editor: result from any use of nuclear weapons.” It support allowed our Club to continue our because our words do matter. A historic step has been taken that will make further recognizes “the consequent need to mission to meet needs in the three towns. We can choose to use our words to the world safer and more secure. completely eliminate such weapons, which Thank you from all of us in the Rotary encourage someone or criticize and remains the only way to guarantee that Club of Charlotte-Shelburne-Hinesburg. humiliate…to be positive or negative… As we are deep in worry about the future nuclear weapons are never used again under You can always go to our website due to covid-19, domestic terrorism, to bring healing and peace or to promote any circumstances.” rotaryclubofcsh.org or to rotary.org to divisiveness and hate. It should be painfully climate disasters, health care, the economy, learn more about who we are and what we If the US were to suddenly show interest apparent to all of us the flaws that exist and the future of democracy, we often do. forget the danger of nuclear war. So it was in joining the treaty, additional countries in our society today and each of us has a encouraging to hear that on October 24, would almost certainly join according to THANK YOU from all of us. We wish all responsibility to do whatever we can to learn 2020, Honduras became the 50th country nuclearban.us. of you a safe, healthy and more normal how we got to where we are and then to start 2021! the journey towards coming together and to ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of The treaty is a clear indication that the healing. Nuclear Weapons. With this 50th ratification, majority of the world’s countries no longer Chris Davis, President the treaty will enter into force on January 22, accept nuclear weapons and do not consider Rotary Club of Charlotte-Shelburne- I would like to suggest that if you have not 2021, at which time it will become illegal them legitimate. It demonstrates that the Hinesburg yet read Caste by Isabel Wilkerson, this to possess, use, and threaten to use nuclear indiscriminate mass killing of civilians is would be a good time to pick up a copy and weapons in these 50 countries. unacceptable and that it is not possible to Words matter read it. Before we can begin to heal, we need I have been involved in the effort to ban use nuclear weapons consistent with the to begin to understand how we got here. To the editor: nuclear weapons for 60 years. A more laws of war. I am urging our country to Stay safe, stay well, abide by international law in the future by recent campaign began in 2007 with As I reflect on what happened in our nation’s Trina Bianchi the International Campaign to Abolish joining other countries in ratifying the treaty capital on Wednesday last, I remind myself Nuclear Weapons made up of over 500 on prohibition of nuclear weapons. that words truly do matter. And it matters non-governmental organizations from 103 The treaty can be read in its entirety at countries. http://undocs.org/A/CONF.229/2017/8. While the United States chose to boycott Catherine Bock the negotiations in 2017 and has refused to sign the treaty, it still has the potential to Thank you for supporting significantly impact U.S. behavior regarding nuclear weapons issues. Previous weapon Rotary prohibition treaties, including the Chemical To the editor: Weapons Convention and the Anti-Personnel I want to thank the residents of the Mine Ban Convention, have demonstrated three towns of Charlotte, Shelburne and that changing international norms leads to Hinesburg that our Rotary Club serves for concrete changes in policies and behaviors, the generous support during a challenging even in countries not party to the treaty. year for all of us. Covid increased the Article One of the treaty prohibits states needs for basic things like food and warm parties from developing, testing, producing, clothing for many in our community. Like manufacturing, transferring, possessing, many of you, our Rotary Club shifted to stockpiling, using or threatening to use on-line meetings, and our members found nuclear weapons, or allowing nuclear creative and safe ways to continue to weapons to be stationed on their territory. provide essential hands-on and financial It also prohibits them from assisting, support for the food shelves, the schools encouraging or inducing anyone to engage and many families in our towns. in any of these activities. We could not have done this without The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 5 Around Town Congratulations: the Chittenden County and Vermont Bar is extended to family and friends of his love of music Associations. Norm Bean, a longtime Charlotte dairy and skiing led to —to Kate Brennan Keech and Ava farmer who passed away Dec. 11 in Holly his moonlighting Rohrbaugh whose poems were selected —and “hail, hail Rock and Roll” to Hill, Florida at the age of 93. Norm and as a disc jockey to appear in issues of the Burlington Free guitarist and bandleader Xander Naylor, his wife, Jane, operated a dairy farm on and working on Press Young Writers Project. Ava wrote who has produced another album, this the Charlotte/Hinesburg Road for over the ski patrol at about her pet friend, “Crystal Dog” saying one titled Continuum. According to Chris 50 years. She died in 2001. Norm is nearby Pat’s Peak that he likes it when she takes his collar Farnsworth, music reviewer for Seven survived by his daughter Diane Johnson of Mountain. Upon off and allows him to go free. Going free Days, this follow-up album to Transition, Charlotte, a son living in Shoreham, two graduating from has ascended to another level. Xander grew in the forest, he chooses what to sniff and sisters and two brothers plus numerous NEC, he moved to William McHenry Keyser what tracks to follow. He tends to lose his up in Charlotte before moving to New grandchildren, great grandchildren and Vermont, where he identity as a dog, that he “burns brighter York to study his musical craft, earning a great-great grandchildren. Donations in resided for more than the homely crystal dog.” Ava wonders degree in jazz performance. He is the son Norm’s name may be made to Halifax than 40 years, the last 20 in Charlotte. whether there is something like this shift of Magdalena Naylor and the late Thomas Health Hospice, 3800 Woodbriar Trail, Port During summers in Marion, he became an away from being coddled, what she calls Naylor. Orange, FL 32129. accomplished sailboat racer and learned to “crinkled ancient but there nonetheless,” in Sympathy: all of us. Leo G. LaBerge tinker, taking things apart and making them is extended to family and friends of Andy whole again—tractors, cars and various Kate had two of her poems make two Mansfield of Charlotte who passed away Leo G. LaBerge (aka Lee, Butch), 65, of engines. He seemed to have every tool. He separate Writers Projects. One appeared Dec. 18 at the age of 81. Born in Stowe, he Charlotte passed away on Dec. 23 after a was best known for his ability to work on Christmas day last year; the other Jan. 8. moved to Charlotte where he worked as a long illness. He was the fifth child of Reina bikes. You knew a bike dropped off for a In December she wished “Goodbye 2020.” skilled finish carpenter, performing largely and Leo LaBerge of Charlotte. simple tune-up would be returned spanking The year brought a number of things custom work, home items such as cabinets, clean and perhaps with one or more parts to human culture that had not appeared He graduated gun cases, even doll houses. Andy married from CVUHS in completely rebuilt. previously—most brought on by the Marlene Russell in 1980. She predeceased corona virus. Listing items and actions Hinesburg in 1972. The Shelburne Bike Club, established by him. The family asks that, in lieu of He went to VT Mac in the 1980s, continues to this day that she hoped would not continue beyond flowers, those wishing to remember him 2020, she says she won’t miss them at all Technical College as the Wednesday Night Riders. Many of consider making a donation to the Humane in Randolph, these cyclist joined Mac in the Register’s (including, incidentally, a “president who Society of Chittenden County. doesn’t know a thing”). graduating in Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa is extended to family and friends of 1976 with an (RAGBRAI), riding across Iowa on a Kate’s second poem, “Wonderful Things,” associate’s degree in dozen different Julys. Mac’s biking trips Elizabeth Cilley, most recently of Leo G. LaBerge opens with the author saying “This poem Elderwood in Burlington and prior to that Architecture. introduced many nieces and nephews to is irrelevant. Seriously, you have better a longtime resident of Essex Juncton. He worked many different jobs in many biking, and he made life long friends along things to do.” However, after listing a batch Elizabeth died on Christmas Day at the way. of better things to do, she closes by saying different fields, including as caregiver for the age of 91. After a long teaching our father during his final illnesses; he Mac will be remembered for his love of that if the reader is not doing “an infinite career, she retired in 1992 as head of number of wonderful things . . . feel free to also worked for the Post Office for several puzzles and his competitiveness playing the English Department at Albert D. years. backgammon—best played with a mai tai read this poem.” Lawton Intermediate School in Essex. He was pre-deceased by both our parents, in hand. He looked equally at ease wearing —to Charlotte resident and attorney Her surviving family includes daughter Gary his sisters Colleen LaBerge McGrath, bow ties, cycling spandex or suspenders for being named Managing Julie Voll and Julie’s husband, Peter, and Franklin Bedette LaBerge Viens, Renette LaBerge with his Carhartts. His humor and good Shareholder and Board Chair for the daughter Andrea Cilley, all of Charlotte. Procopio, and his brother, Roland Laberge. nature kindled many loyal friends. His Burlington law firm of Primmer Piper The family asks that those wishing to make strength and ability to meet his many health Eggleston & Cramer. Having built a donations in her memory consider doing He is survived by his brothers Gerard challenges stoically and without complaint successful law practice over the years so to the Heavenly Food Pantry, First (Beth) LaBerge of Barre, Donald Laberge never wavered and amazed us all. in New York and California as well as Congregational Church of Essex Junction. of Charlotte, and Marcel LaBerge of Over the course of time, however, the Vermont, Gary served as president of both Burlington, and his sisters Leona LaBerge of South Burlington, Lynn (Tom) Croto of wear and tear from his medical conditions Essex, Viv LaBerge of Canaan, CT, and presented even greater hardships. Virginia Julie (Kevin) Lusignan of Milton. He is was his partner in facing the daily also survived by many nieces and nephews challenges, and they strived to live life and many great nieces and nephews, and to the fullest, doing the things they loved good friends Nancy Dyke of Bristol, Mike together. Mac always lived his life on his We can help you make Yantachka of Charlotte, and Kingsley Nice terms, and when his body finally ebbed, he of Ohio. was ready with courage to say goodbye, new tracks in 2021 sharing a hint of his smile. He was a Due to Covid-19 issues, no funeral services remarkable soul and will be remembered Home prices are still on the rise! will be held. Instead of flowers send hugs and profoundly missed by so many who and prayer to those we love in Heaven. The average median price of Single-Family were fortunate enough to know him. homes in Charlotte continues to out-pace the Mac is survived by his wife of 24 years, region with a 16.2% price increase William McHenry Keyser Virginia Bartholomew Keyser; his mother, year-to-date vs 2019 Helen A. Trumbull, and stepfather, Walter After struggling with aggressive H. Trumbull; his sister, Leigh Keyser Kathy has worked with buyers from all pneumonia and complications from lifelong Phillips (Peter); his brothers, Donald A. over the country, including 8 who bought diabetes, William McHenry Keyser died Keyser (Anne) and Peter S. Adamson homes with her via Facetime by focusing peacefully on Dec. 15 with his wife, (Mary); and numerous nieces, nephews and on their needs and covering every detail Virginia, by his side near their new home in godchildren. He was predeceased by his to earn their trust. Lake Wales, FL. father and his sister, Elizabeth H. Keyser Evans. Contact us today! Mac was born on Aug. 2, 1952, in New Bedford, Mass., near Marion, a treasured A memorial service will be held next place where he spent time every summer summer. In lieu of flowers, donations may with his family. The son of R. Brent Keyser be made in Mac’s memory to his boyhood and Helen Angier Keyser, Mac attended the summer camp, Kieve Wavus Education, Gilman School and the Harvey School and P.O. Box 169, Nobleboro, ME 04555, or later graduated from Middlesex School. to Local Motion, 1 Steele St., Suite 103, While attending New England College, Burlington, VT 05401.

To Advertise in 550 Hinesburg Road The South Burlington, VT 05403 802.343.9433 | 802.578.9552 Charlotte News FourSeasonsSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Contact [email protected] 6 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News Town Your Rotary Club in 2020 John Hammer CONTRIBUTOR In days of yore, if you asked anyone about Rotary, they would say, “Oh, it’s just a group of old men sitting around smoking cigars.” That may have been true in the days of our grandparents, but not now, certainly not in the case of the Rotary Club of Charlotte- Shelburne-Hinesburg. In this past year, the role of our Rotary Club and its members has taken on a series of assistive and support services for people in need as the result of the coronavirus pandemic. In recent years, many of the Rotary’s activities centered around specific projects such as building walkways and bridges in the wildlife refuge, a compost building at the Charlotte Central School or the Charlotte Sherry Beaty, who runs the Charlotte Central Beach attendant hut. The pandemic has School kitchen, and Linda Gilbert prepared added another important layer for members meal deliveries. who follow the Rotary motto of “Service past year’s food activities with no end in Above Self.” Food insecurity in Vermont has sight. been reported to be in the neighborhood of 40%, and a major food delivery service has Another pandemic-related effort was been created centered around the schools of originated by the wife of a member. She the Champlain Valley School District. This is a teacher at Shelburne Central School Above: Susan Grimes (Shelburne), Linda Gilbert (Charlotte), and Chris Davis (Charlotte) socially program, run by the district and supported and identified a serious need this year for distance in the garden. Below: The gardening crew rested at Philo Ridge Farm after working in largely by volunteers, provides full meals to winter clothing for children and families the CCS Garden, from left to right, Linda Gilbert, Susanne and Chris Davis, Keith Walsh, Carrie Fenn, Susan Grimes. Courtesy photos needy students under 18 from the district’s in the district. The highly successful drive schools. The service has provided 133,370 resulted in a flood of donations in all three meals within the district since July when towns. Rotarians met the challenge of Rotary first began providing help to the cleaning, sorting and distributing clothing program. to the school counselors who coordinated the identification and final distribution of Scott Wagner, food service manager for clothing. The program will continue into the CVSD, said, “It was all about helping the winter term as needs are identified. people and feeding people for us, and the Special thanks are due to All Souls Interfaith Rotary Club has been right there with us as Gathering in Shelburne for providing storage partners.” Rotary member Carrie Fenn has space and the Wash Shed in the Shelburne been working assiduously in scheduling Shopping Park for providing free washing support for those who have worked in the and drying machines. kitchens, handling distribution and even Chris Davis, current president of the Club to the point of riding school buses that are and a resident of Charlotte, gave high used to deliver meals to families unable to praise for the support it receives from its get to the distribution points. Carrie, in her constituent communities. He said, “A thank usual self-effacing way, passed on the credit you for the generosity and support our Club to the program’s organizers. She said, “The has had in donations of winter clothing CVSD food program runs like a well-oiled and funds even during these challenging machine—from Scott on to the individual COVID times and how critical that support school program directors. Rotary members has been to our Club’s ability to serve the have been able to jump in and support the essential community needs this past year critical work of these programs for students and going forward with primary needs experiencing food insecurity.” being food security, winter clothing for kids The service continues right through vacation and families, and the college scholarships times, so that needy children are provided the Club is committed to support through with healthy nutrition. VSAC.”

In other sectors of the food chain, Rotarians The Club meets each Wednesday morning at served during the summer in the Charlotte 7:30. Ordinarily you would find the meeting School garden, weeding, watering and in the Fellowship Hall behind Shelburne’s harvesting food for the school. During Trinity Episcopal Church, but, as with so Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Club any other organizations, it currently meets donated their usual annual gifts of holiday by Zoom. Access and entrance code can be turkeys and hams to food shelves in its three obtained by emailing [email protected]. towns. This year’s needs have increased, and Information on the Club’s activities can be 26 turkeys and hams have been delivered found on its website at RotaryClubofCSH. through the Charlotte Food Shelf. This, org or look for the club’s Facebook page plus substantial donations to food shelves under the title Charlotte-Shelburne- and Meals on Wheels have rounded out this Hinesburg Rotary. The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 7 Hi, Neighbor! Debbie Lamden: Making life better for Vermonters with special needs In 1989, Debbie Lamden’s life was turned upside down. Her son, Ari, was born after just 24 weeks of pregnancy, weighing only a pound and a half. Phyl Newbeck A stained-glass artist CONTRIBUTOR by profession, Lamden decided to dedicate her life to finding ways to help Ari and others with special needs engage in the same kinds of activities as other children. She founded Partners in Adventure in 1999 to help accomplish that goal. “In my wildest dreams I couldn’t have imagined the way it’s grown,” Lamden said. Partners in Adventure began as a summer camp but expanded to include a winter camp and year-round programming, with events like movie nights and dress-up dinner and dancing socials, serving 600 people a year. “There was such a need for it,” Lamden said. “Now there are similar programs, but when we started, it was Left: Debbie Lamden started Partners in Adventure to give her son, Ari, opportunities to socialize and make connections with other children with special needs. Right: An artist by nature, Debbie Lamden works with stained glass, makes jewelry, and paints. Courtesy photos very unusual.” This year, Covid-19 prevented the summer camp and other in-person events from Sue Minter with pulling together events The videos were offered for free through be found in residences and commercial happening, and Lamden worried about her that kept campers engaged throughout a private Google site and 36 kids took establishments throughout the state. After son and others who have attended year the summer. A six-week online program part. Many of the programs included arts Ari’s birth she shifted gears and worked after year. “We open up a whole world of featured activities that included dancing, and crafts activities, so Lamden provided for the Vermont Parent Information Center social experience that these young people science, and arts and crafts. Staff and those materials free for pickup for those before starting Partners in Adventure. In have never had,” she said. “Outside of some of the workshop providers like who couldn’t afford to purchase them. 1995, she returned to her artistic roots Partners in Adventure, it’s hard for them musician Jon Gailmor still received “It’s hard to know what will happen as when she started Debbie Lamden Jewelry, to make new friends and integrate into payment for their services and four we move forward,” she said “but I believe but the pandemic has given her time to the community.” Determined not to let University of Vermont interns chipped we’ll get through this and it will just be a pick up her paintbrushes again. “I never her campers down, Lamden huddled in to create high-quality videos. Video glitch in the big picture.” stopped being an artist,” she said. “Art has with her staff to find a way to continue content included sessions focused on always been the balance in my life.” the programming, a task made harder by beekeeping, PIA’s wheelchair accessible In 2011, PIA branched out to create the fact that the organization’s two main raised-bed gardens at Ethan Allen Adventures in Granola as a way of Having time to paint has helped propel fundraisers, a Calcutta game night and Homestead, and a series about chickens providing employment to people with Lamden toward her next career move. a golf tournament at Vermont National with segments on collecting eggs and special needs. That venture continued this “I’m well past the age of retirement,” she Country Club, also had to be cancelled. cooking a vegetable omelet. “They sound year but in a scaled down version because said “and I have wanted to have more of pretty simple,” Lamden said “but they they could no longer use a communal my own time.” Lamden will be turning were wonderfully done with borders and kitchen. Many PIA campers sell the the reins of Partners in Adventure over to Lamden credits her staff and PIA partner colors and pop-ups.” granola at farmers markets. Those who Joan Martin, who has served on the board are non-verbal have a button they can since 2017. “I see myself staying until the push to provide prospective buyers with summer,” Lamden said “but then I’ll be information on the product. ready to leave.” Lamden has a fine arts degree from the Lamden loves that there are campers, Boston Museum School. After graduation, aides and staff members who have been she moved to Vermont and started with the organization for five to 10 Charlotte Glassworks across from the Old years and hopes they will stay for many Brick Store. She stayed at that location more. “It’s pretty amazing what we’ve from 1977 to 1981 before moving her accomplished,” she said. “I’m very proud operations to Burlington and is pleased to of what we’ve done.” report that many of her creations can still 8 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News Town

Winter wonderland was here Red Onion opens its doors in Charlotte The well-known and much-loved Red Onion Café opened with a rush on Wednesday morning that was still going at lunch time. After closing its doors in Burlington due to financial struggles brought on by high rent on Church Street and a pandemic-related drop in business, the sandwich shop is back open at Charlotte Crossings (the former Vermont Wildflower Farm) on Route 7. The breakfast and lunch menus remain the same as in the shop’s previous location, including the famed Red Onion sandwich. Orders can be placed ahead at 425-3194. Photos by Chea Waters Evans

It’ll be back again, don’t worry. The winter snow of Christmas week was hopefully a precursor of beauty to come. Photo by Quinn Sunderland

ZONING continued from page 1 expectations and improve job performance in the future. The agreement also stipulates that inquiries from prospective future employers will “Therefore, the Selectboard does hereby consist of “a letter which states only the dates rescind the written reprimand and it will be of employment, positions held, and a copy of expunged from his personnel file and it will the job description for the position.” not be considered in any later disciplinary matter.” The Selectboard denied Morgan’s On July 24, the Selectboard issued an request to reimburse his attorney fees. oral warning to Morgan regarding job performance; prior to this point, his The formal withdrawal was signed by performance reviews were positive. In mid- Selectboard Chair Matt Krasnow and October of 2020, the Selectboard then issued members Jim Faulkner and Louise McCarren. a written reprimand to Morgan regarding The two other members, Carrie Spear his job performance, of which The Charlotte and Frank Tenney, recused themselves News obtained a copy. The reprimand cited from the decision because of a separate several areas in which the Selectboard matter currently before the Zoning Board and Morgan’s supervisors said his job Adjustment, of which Tenney is the chair. performance was not meeting expectations. Spear has an application under consideration with the ZBA; at a meeting in December, Through a letter sent by his legal counsel, Morgan said he had put the application in employment attorney John Franco, Morgan front of the ZBA in the first place due to challenged the written reprimand. The pressure from Tenney and others on town Charlotte News also obtained a copy of this boards. document, which argues that “the Written Reprimand is without legal effect” because Morgan said that he has no comment the town failed to follow its own personnel regarding the reprimand withdrawal or the policies in warning and issuing the reprimand, separation agreement “at the moment.” and that the reprimand “prejudged the matter in violation of his Loudermill procedural due At the Jan. 4 Selectboard meeting, the board process rights under the 14th Amendment.” began plans to refine the job description and It also states that, despite the town’s assertion pay grade for the new ZA. The Planning that Morgan was not performing to expected Commission nominates applicants for the job standards, “there are no established standards and then the Selectboard appoints the person that he is accused of violating...notice of such to the position, which is held for three years. standards are required for there to be just cause to reprimand him.” Krasnow wrote in an email to The Charlotte News, “The Selectboard is moving as quickly The grievance submitted by Franco also as possible to fill the position….Hopefully asserts that certain grounds for reprimand the job will be posted this week. My guess is cited in the formal complaint against there will be a different configuration than it Morgan “would impose de facto standards is now, but that’s conjecture and is entirely up in contradiction to the requirements of the to the Selectboard to decide.” Planning Act.” At last week’s Selectboard meeting, after On Dec. 17, after over a dozen executive accepting Morgan’s resignation, the board sessions regarding Morgan’s employment, approved a familiar face to temporarily hold the town formally withdrew the reprimand. the job until a permanent replacement is It read that in order to “rule-out any found: Jeannine McCrumb, who last held the possible ambiguity” regarding employment position full time in 2015. Morgan’s other expectations, the Selectboard had revised the responsibilities will be covered by other town ZA job description with the intent to clarify employees and volunteers until someone new is hired. The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 9 Education Hitting the road from home: College visits during a pandemic Margo Bartsch If a campus is closed, a student can still CONTRIBUTOR visit campus to get a feel for the size, environment and location. Check with With the start of the new year, the the admissions website to confirm that tradition of college road trips during the school is allowing people to visit. February break should be on the radar. It can also be helpful to contact a local How can road trips continue during alumnus. It is insightful to have a personal the pandemic? Welcome to the virtual perspective while walking around campus campus tour! With nearly 10 months since to highlight some traditions and campus the coronavirus pandemic shut down pulse. Most alumni receive a quarterly the world and disrupted American life, magazine making them aware of new education as we know it has changed. For opportunities and general college trends. colleges, Zoom classes, hybrid learning and gap years are common terms that Once a student visits a campus (virtually were previously unfamiliar. The virtual or in-person), the college tracks the visit. road trip helps families become familiar The student registers with their email and with each college’s academic options and provides general information such as their distinct campus community, while the high school, interests and graduation year. college tracks the student’s engagement Most colleges will begin emailing students and gauges the student’s intent to attend. college updates. Open these emails and read them—colleges are tracking your The college road trip has a history of engagement. In some cases, colleges being a rite of passage. Movies such as will invite students to Zoom or Facetime College Road Trip with Raven Simone interviews with admissions officers. highlight the funny debacles of an Photo courtsey pexels.com overprotective father and his confident Many college applications include daughter trying to find her perfect college information session allows the student to study abroad choices, club activities and questions, “Why X-College,” within fit (spoiler alert: she chooses Georgetown listen to admission officers and current financial aid options. Each college keeps various word counts, such as “Why over my alma mater of Northwestern). college students tout the strengths track of a student’s engagement to learn Dartmouth” at 100 words or “Why Until the pandemic, road trips involved and unique character of each college. more about the school. This is a chance University of Vermont” at 500 words. researching the college’s website, Arranging the tour and information for students to ask questions during the In attending virtual tours and on campus registering for an admissions tour and session, typically around an hour each, forums and email follow-up questions visits, students can reflect on their information session, and attending a can be done on the Admission’s website. for additional information. The more experiences with the college and shed college class. Currently, however, campus In registering for an on-campus or online information, the better! insight into their personal goals as a visits have become an online experience. session, each college presents an overview student. Colleges prioritize specific essays of the college’s academic programs, If a family is planning to travel near since it helps to distinguish a student’s Scheduling a virtual campus tour and a college, the student can contact future engagement and contribution to the admissions to notify them of the expected campus. visit. In some cases, the admissions team can arrange a personal tour; however, if Distinctive applications are not achieved the school is not open, then the family overnight. Compelling essays trace a might be able to walk around campus student’s interests and achievements over and follow an online tour. Check each time. Throughout college road trips, there college’s website about their campus are honest discoveries revealing how their visit policies during the pandemic. For past will influence their future. example, Bowdoin College offers a student-led virtual tour that follows an on- Margo Bartsch founded College Essay campus route (at your own pace) followed Coach, a full-service college admissions by a Zoom question and answer session. business, and has been an adjunct professor in business at Champlain College and at Middlebury College. Preschool lottery coming soon Staff report

Champlain Valley School District school- based Early Education Programs are now accepting applications for a random preschool lottery drawing for the 2021-22 school year. The part-time, partial-day, preschool classrooms are 5 STARs licensed early education programs that provide play-based, developmentally appropriate environments for all children in an inclusive setting. The curriculum is based on the Vermont Early Learning Standards (VELS) and Teaching Strategies Gold. The district Image by Aline Ponce from Pixabay says they “believe that a diverse classroom offers opportunities for adults and children All applications must be received by Feb. 5, to practice acceptance and compassion and 2021. They are located on the CVSD website also provides a broad range of learning under 2021-2022 Lottery Application. experiences.” Students will be selected via a lottery and Programs follow the CVSD school families notified in February. calendar. Students who will be age 3 or older The early childhood education team is by September 1, 2021, who have not enrolled available to screen your child, ages three in kindergarten, are eligible to enter the to five, if you have any concerns about lottery. Families selected for and choosing your child’s development in any of these school-based programs are accessing their areas: Communication, Social-Emotional, Act 166 funding for universal preschool Motor Skills, Adaptive Skills or Cognitive there. Skills. Please contact Kristin Eisensmith at [email protected]. 10 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News Opinion Watching rebellion back home Lewis Mudge As I watch the mob at the Capitol scream, “This is our house, let’s take it back,” I felt a pit in my stomach. For those of us who In 2013 my wife and I had plans to return have witnessed or lived through societal to Vermont from our home in Rwanda so breakdowns, days like January 6 are a she could give birth to our first child. As a warning. Central African Republic is one human rights researcher and investigator, example where I watched firsthand how I had one more trip to conduct in the norms are cast aside, one by one, and red Central African Republic. The country was lines are crossed. First a rebel smashed a reeling from a coup, rebels had just taken window at the town hall in Kaga Bandoro. the capital, Bangui, and I was part of a Facing no recrimination, he broke down a team documenting war crimes that were door. Moments later, he entered and started continuing in the countryside. As I walked to tear the building apart. I saw the same amidst the ruins of the courthouse destroyed action at play in Washington. For those by rebel fighters, an old teacher friend, Jean- heady moments, when the pro-Trump mob Daniel, explained, “They wanted to break in Washington thought they had achieved everything they could, they don’t want to a victory, they tried to break down our build, they just want to destroy.” society. The rebel coalition that took over the For many of us in Charlotte, that the horror Central African Republic were called the of events last week in Washington seems Seleka, and almost eight years on, it is still far off. In the aftermath of the mob’s wrath hard to know what they were for. What my wife and I had homeschooling to deal is much easier is to define them based with. The kids made a desperate plea to go on what they were against: basic human sledding as last Wednesday wrapped up, rights, stability, development and religious and we relented. Most of us continue to tolerance. They ruled by fiat, destroying at strive to be good Vermonters amid COVID, will, and it took a UN peacekeeping force which means to mask up, social distance, (who are still on the ground) to bring a be considerate about going out and wait modicum of stability to the capital. patiently for a vaccine. The pandemic We had set out from the capital with an aim continues to define our life. But let us not to document serious crimes: the deliberate get complacent about what we saw last killing of civilians and cases of rape used week. Strong-men and their foot soldiers as a weapon of war. But we did not expect thrive in an atmosphere of terror. And such levels of destruction. In town after the one thing they fear, above all else, is town, we saw the Seleka dismantling the accountability. image of the Central African state: buildings We must demand that our state-wide were ransacked, documents were burned. In representatives continue to call for all those Kaga Bandoro I watched as Seleka fighters who planned and incited this riot to be held stormed the town hall, pulling the building accountable. If some of those Vermonters apart. The town court was ransacked by who floated state regulations by cramming troops. The primary school was pillaged. themselves into a bus to drive down to the The Seleka fighters occasionally approached melee are found to have participated, they and yelled in mixed French and Sango, must face consequences too. “This is our country! We are in charge here!” Back in Central African Republic in 2013, as my friend and I left the courthouse, now I could have never imagined my time in occupied by Seleka troops, we were stopped the Central African Republic could have at a rebel roadblock. A young fighter prepared me for seeing the same hatred and with an AK-47 slung over his shoulder destruction in our own country. Like many demanded money and cigarettes. He waved Charlotters, I watched in dismay last week the gun in our faces and insisted that we as a mob, incited and encouraged by our pay because this was “his town” and “he president, attacked the Capitol. I stared in was in charge.” He only let us pass when he disbelief as the news commentators talked recognized my friend as his former teacher. of casualties, congresspeople in hiding, and Jean-Daniel explained: “I was teaching him offices occupied. But I also had reference six months ago. Now he drives around on a points from a profession that does not seem stolen motorcycle and lives off the money so distant anymore. he extorts at this roadblock.” I asked how The mob that attacked the Capitol pulled it could be possible, that someone could so pages straight from an autocratic playbook: quickly resort to banditry. “He started to make those who refuse to bend do so and believe his own rhetoric,” my friend said. enforce your will. They employed tactics “He really believes this country was for him of warlords, authoritarians and dictators. and his cohorts alone. And nobody stood up They had as much disregard for democratic to him.” institutions as they do for the democratic Lewis Mudge is the Central Africa Director process. They are only a few steps removed at Human Rights Watch. He lives on from the Seleka’s foot soldiers, two of Greenbush Road. whose leaders go on trial next month at the International Criminal Court.

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST AND GET THE LATEST TOWN NEWS ONCE A WEEK! SIGN UP ON OUR WEBSITE CharlotteNewsVT.org The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 11 Town Town meeting, town warning, running for office— all different this year Mary Mead to file a petition with the Town Clerk to State’s website, sos.vermont.gov. Ballots Selectboard: 2-year term TOWN CLERK/TREASURER have an article appear on the ballot. The will be available by Feb. 10. After that Mike Dunbar filed; Frank Tenney petition must contain signatures from at date, you will also be able to come to the (incumbent) filed. Town Meeting as we have been least 5% of the registered voters (3291) of office and pick up your ballot or vote early Selectboard: 3-year term accustomed to will not be happening Charlotte. right at Town Hall as well. If you have requested an absentee ballot in the past, Dale Knowles filed. this year. Every article on the Town The petition requirement for people and you would like to continue to vote Warning will be voted on by Australian wishing to run for office is not in play this Town Agent: 1-year term Ballot. There will be an informational by absentee, you still have to make a new year. The only requirement for getting Town Clerk: 3-year term Selectboard Meeting, held by Zoom, request for 2021. your name on the ballot is to fill out a within 10 days of March 2, to discuss all Consent of Candidate form, which you The following offices are up for grabs Mary Mead (incumbent) filed. Articles. But once the Warning is set by can request from the Town Clerk’s office this year, and these candidates have filed the Selectboard, there is no opportunity to or you can print off of the town website paperwork: Town Treasurer: 3-year term amend any article. by going to charlottevt.org and clicking on Mary Mead (incumbent) filed. Auditor: 1, 2 & 3-year terms available the Town Clerk tab. You will find the form Every Article included on the Warning Mike Dunbar filed for 1-year term. Trustee of Public Funds: will be voted on by Australian Ballot on the bottom of that page along with a 1, 2 & 3-year terms exactly as it is stated on the Warning. list of offices that are up for election this Cemetery Commissioner: 1, 2 & 3-year Moe Harvey (incumbent) filed for If you are interested in the budget or March. The consent form is due back terms available 3- year term. at the Town Clerk’s office by 5 p.m. on any other Articles that might be up for CVSD School Director: 3-year term discussion for inclusion on the Warning, Monday, Jan. 25. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call or email us! you should be attending the Selectboard Voting will again be at the Town Hall, not Library Trustee: 5-year term meetings right now. The Selectboard is Charlotte Central School. I anticipate a Robert Smith (incumbent) filed. Mary A. Mead currently planning on having the Warning large number of absentee ballot requests, Delinquent Tax Collector: 1-year term Sy Koerner completed by Jan. 25, 2021. The last day but you can also vote in person at the Mary Mead (incumbent) filed. [email protected] to post the Warning is Jan. 31, 2021. Town Hall if you like. You can request [email protected] your ballot from us any time now, either Town Moderator: 1-year term Jan. 14, 2021 is the last day for voters 425-3071 by phone or email or on the Secretary of Road Commissioner: 1-year term Community Partners update The Charlotte have the results nor know the total number click on “District Resources,” click on community action agencies to assist Community Partners of surveys that were completed, but we are “Menus,” or call Scott Wagner at 802- people who are not able to access the took a break over the meeting again on Jan. 18 and at that time 871-6198. application for help with overdue electric, holidays, but we are should have more information to share. gas, telecom or water bills online. Call now back in the saddle. The Charlotte Food Shelf is open CVOEO Monday–Friday at 802-863- The Resilience Surveys We hope that many of you took Wednesdays from 5–7 p.m. at the 6248. Bills need to be 60 or more days that you completed advantage of this opportunity to let your Charlotte Congregational Church. Call overdue. Trina Bianchi online are being voice be heard so that we learn where 425-3252 to register. CONTRIBUTOR tabulated; the ones that improvements can be made in our town Emotional and mental health folks did manually have to make it an even better place to live and Financial assistance raise a family. Vermont 211 from your phone—available Emergency financial assistance is all been collected, and that data will now for referrals and questions. be added to the online data. We don’t yet available through the Food Shelf, 2020 was certainly a most unusual and for Charlotte Congregational Church and Our many families a very challenging year. Pathways Vermont at 883-888-2557 Lady of Mt. Carmel. Call 425-3252 or With the advent of the vaccine and the is free and is available 24/7 to call or 425-3130. administering of same within our state, we text. Talk with a peer who has dealt with can begin to see light at the end of what mental health issues in the past. The latest information has been a very long and dark tunnel. Let Stay abreast of the ongoing news in NFI Vermont, access through nfivermont. Vermont with respect to CV-19, check us continue to march on this path until all org. Serves Vermont families whose who want the vaccine get it and hope that on what is opening, new regulations for children are struggling with emotional, traveling into our state, where to get a test we can turn the page and leave COVID in behavioral or mental health challenges. the dust behind us. if you need one, and how to remain safe First Call, 802-488-7777, is for crisis and well. https://www.healthvermont.gov/ Available resources: situations. Available 24/7. response/coronavirus-covid-19. Food and meals The school lunch program continues Assistance with utility bills Until next time, stay safe, stay well and whether your students are in school or The Vermont Department of Public Happy New Year! learning from home. Visit cvsdvt.org, Service has arranged for the local 12 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News On Books What you might consider reading next, Part One Happy New Year, her by a local priest, lovingly kept in an the unheard cry ... It will lie at her very core, and dark, yet hopeful Readers! I hope you apple shed with a for the rest of her life.” too, if that makes made it through the hood over its head. any sense. Set in a transition healthy and The young man is It is fascinating to read about life in the 16th housing project, this intact and that this fascinated by this century and fascinating to be prompted to book is crawling year will bring peace, rather disheveled imagine what Shakespeare’s life might have with characters. I harmony, much needed female creature been like, including the possible significance could almost have Katherine Arthaud national stability, and calmly bearing a bird to him of his free-spirited wife and this used one of those CONTRIBUTOR some more snow would of prey, and he seeks special and much beloved son. Hamnet takes keys that you find in be nice, too. 2021. I’m her out. Turns out place during the bubonic plague, and at one some of the denser ready. I really am. her name is Agnes point O’Farrell describes how the disease Russian novels that (pronounced Ann- manages to reach the household of Agnes explain and remind I have read some good books since you yis) and she is not a and her husband. But don’t let this scare brave readers who is who and how they last heard from me. One of the best, if servant, as he had assumed, but a member you off. are related/connected to so-and-so. This not the best book I read all year was of the family for whom he is working as a book, set in New York in the late 60s, is Maggie O’Farrell’s Latin teacher. Which makes things tricky, of I did begin to read a different novel a couple about love, crime, misdemeanors, longing, Hamnet. Riveting course. of weeks ago that takes place during a church, friendship, enemies, mysteries, faith, and beautifully time of plague, and I had to put it down. shame and secrets. Colorfully complex and written, I savored But, hold on. I don’t want to spoil this for I just couldn’t. It hit too close to home. textured, and very well written. Comic at every word, every you. I want you to read this tale for yourself But nothing like this happened to me with times, and sometimes tragic. Wonderful sentence. Set in 1580s and let it unwind for you the way it did Hamnet, which, from the moment I started dialog, especially between Sportcoat and England, a young man for me. Seamlessly, beautifully, hopping it, I could not put it down—very cliché, I his deceased wife, Hettie. Amazing names: forced to pay off his deftly back and forth in time. Bottom line know, but it really is very true in this case. Sportcoat, Bum-Bum, Hot Sausage, Soup, tempestuous father’s is that this rather unlikely couple ends up This is a novel I will read again. (It might Jet… (I’ve got a thing for nicknames.) loans by teaching marrying and having three children, two also make me read Hamlet again.) Warning, Latin to a handful of of whom are twins, Hamnet and Judith. I though: it’s extremely popular right now, James McBride was awarded a National kids at a neighboring have not yet read any of O’Farrell’s earlier and like toilet paper in March 2020, hard to Humanities Medal by President Obama “for farmhouse catches a glimpse of a woman books (I certainly will), but apparently, get your hands on. (I read this one on my humanizing the complexities of discussing through the window. they are known to contain rather ominous Kindle.) race in America.” forebodings. From Hamnet: “Every life has Another worthwhile read is Deacon King Happy, happy new year, and may the days This woman, he sees, has something wild its kernel, its hub, its epicenter, from which Kong by James McBride. As with Maggie and months ahead bring health, blessings about her. She carries something strange everything flows out, to which everything O’Farrell, I had not read any of this author’s and peace to a weary, wounded, but on her gloved hand, something which upon returns. This moment is the absent mother’s: previous novels, so this was another first for hopefully hopeful world. Happy reading to closer inspection turns out to be a falcon, the boy, the empty house, the deserted yard, me. Really impressive. Textured, rollicking you all! which turns out to be her falcon, given to Out Takes Eat your hearts out, Vermont You can get anything also taught the customers. As a result, we version of his poetry and, thus, pulled the agenda items—baked beans created you want at Alice’s learned some of the tools of the trade and pork led to the mysteries of logging closer human interaction than milfoil Restaurant the menus of the moment. northern Vermont and the basis for Rusty maintenance. So, once again, food had a You can get anything I can’t speak for the other customers, but DeWees’ long-lasting stage character, harmonizing effect on our lives. you want at Alice’s I know I was drawn into learning-by- “The Logger.” I do hope the current pandemic will show Restaurant listening and testing the results. From my signs of diminishing so that culinary Walk right in it’s career “educatorial” bent, I felt it was a At the west end of Johnson, we discovered matters will bring life back to our Edd Merritt around the back wonderful example of learning by doing a bakery that made its own rolls, scones stomachs. If it doesn’t, we will have to CONTRIBUTOR Just a half a mile from with results tested—in this case, on your and other delicacies. Getting to know seek another galaxy. Aaah, restaurants the railroad track plate. I hate to see that opportunity lost. the owner, we discovered he was also a of the universe may have to serve our And you can get anything you want at short order cook who, when he was not spaceship! Science fiction author Douglas Alice’s Restaurant As I look at other eating experiences, I see at the bakery counter, sat in his kitchen, Adams knew this when he established the many of them connecting the food with questioning what we would like in our Restaurant at the End of the Universe. Alice’s Restaurant – Arlo Guthrie learning. It happened whether we lived in sandwiches. What began strictly as dessert Vermont or in Minnesota, so place was not became a give-and-take order, and we Well, it certainly was not a Christmas an issue. became regular customers. present when the announcement came that Vermont’s long-standing New In Minnesota we became friends with a Finally, I want to say a bit about food’s England Culinary Institute (NECI) would neighbor who was born and grew up in ability to flavor communal connections. close. For 40 years NECI trained chefs, India. A Christian, he was at the low end It happened in conjunction with our providing them with educational credits of the social scale there and ended up membership in a group of landowners in as well as cooking skills; NECI enrolled migrating to this country where he gained the Northeast Kingdom. Each of us owned as many as 800 students at its peak. Due college and post-graduate degrees and ran property around a pond whose water had to a severe drop in the restaurant business, a laboratory at the Mayo Clinic. once been a source of electric power. The more recently driven by the corona electric company had sold the lots around pandemic, causing a loss in cooking jobs, He also introduced us to a small but the pond, and the collective of landowners that enrollment had dropped dramatically. delightful Indian restaurant in town. It was formed an association that governed its delightful because if we went there with level and maintenance, such things as Providing Repair, Refinishing, Visiting NECI restaurants was worth our friend Chella, we were treated to true water quality, loons, moose, bears and Restoration and Transport road trips to Montpelier soon after we Indian cuisine that was over and above fish, limitations on pond craft and any moved to Vermont in 1980. Later, in what was listed on the menu. I must admit other matters that might affect things in Burlington, eating at NECI Commons was to a certain feeling of being special as a and around the water. a great choice. While most often we ate result. George & Pam Darling in the main restaurant section, I clearly Governing happened at an annual meeting P.O. Box 32 remember an occasion when that seating A couple of similar situations happened of the owners when the group scrutinized was full and we were invited to sit at the after we moved to Vermont, both, believe what had happened the past year and Ferry Road, Charlotte, VT preparation counter. It proved to be not it or not, in Johnson. One happened to be planned for the upcoming one. only an eating pleasure but an educational an occasional meeting at the sandwich one as well. The chef who trained the counter of the local deli with the late poet That was all fine and dandy, but what students also helped them prepare the food and playwright David Budbill. While we really mattered, once we had covered [email protected] that we at the counter ate (much to our talked sandwiches not poetry or plays, the agenda, was eating. Potluck brought pleasure I may say). As he taught them, he food talk led me to Judevine, a stage people closer together than any or all of The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 13 Sports A Charlotte addition to All-State Field Hockey In our Dec. 17 issue Kudos to local teams for 2020: of The Charlotte News Beginning in January the CVU women’s we listed the CVU basketball team—the “Big Red women who earned Machine”—buried Essex by 50 points to honors as members of remain “not only unbeatable but nearly the Vermont All-State untouchable,” according to the Free Press. field hockey team. In Edd Merritt doing so, we failed The following month CVU senior Tali CONTRIBUTOR to include Charlotter Giubardo overcame physical adversity Belle Brown, a Rice Memorial sophomore from 15 months before to win the 2020 midfielder who is one of the “state’s most individual gymnastics title and lead the technically gifted players.” Her coach, Redhawks to a team trophy. Kelly McClintock, says she is “one of those players who gets her stick on the ground In the summer baseball league, S.D. Ireland and comes up with red knuckles.” She also suffered only one loss in the shortened earned Burlington Free Press first team and regular season and finished as the best Metro Division first team honors for the in the Summer League tournament. The year. Belle, we apologize for our omission. Ireland team consists largely of age-eligible CVU players. Local soccer All-Americans: CVU’s Jesse Klein joined Milton’s Chance Fall’s soccer finals saw both men and Rose as High School All Americans as women from CVU come close but not selected by the United Coaches Soccer quite on top in the state as the men lost to Organization. Both were also among Essex in overtime and the women to South six Vermont players earning All Region Burlington to break the Redhawk women’s CVU’s Josie Pecor hounds the Wolves. Photo by Al Frey honors. Jesse was joined on that squad by 61-game win streak and their chance of her teammate Josie Pecor. winning a fourth straight state title. Gardening Start pondering a pruning plan Joan Weed I recently had some professional tree treatment. In fact, after the ’98 Ice Storm, CONTRIBUTOR surgeons take care of some dangerous, one of our lilacs was flattened completely dangling limbs and also remove some pine by a fallen tree. I thought it was a goner. As thoughts of the next gardening trees. I would not have tried this on my After cleanup it sent out new growth—and season are already coming to mind, I own. For safety’s sake, it’s wise to choose you would be hard-pressed to notice it had am reminded that we are approaching a the professionals for some jobs. Young been a victim. good time for an important garden chore. trees or understory trees can be handled by You might think it’s something to do backyard gardeners pretty easily. Viburnum carlesii, or Korean Spice Bush, in a greenhouse or under lights in the needs regular trimming. Azaleas also need basement, but no, this chore should and One should be bold when it comes to to be kept in proportion with your garden must be done outdoors. pruning some shrubs. In our 20-plus years design. Yews are another variety that can living here, our forsythia grove has been grow out of hand easily. Of these three March is the ideal time to prune trees taken completely down to the ground at and many others, one must be careful not and shrubs. This is when their skeletons least twice. It returns in a few years, afresh to trim only new surface growth (unless and indeed “bones” are best noticed. with new growth. In between, I try to trim you are aiming at topiary). The plants are still dormant and a few of any extra-long branches to maintain shape the days are benign enough to venture while trying to keep a natural look. Lilacs Reach into the plant and trim where the outside for some bracing exercise. Tools are another stand-by that benefit from branch originates. If one trims only the for the job include secateurs, loppers regular maintenance. The rule of thumb surface growth you will end up with a and a handsaw. The diameter of the is to remove one third of the oldest trunks green shell and no growth in the middle of branches will help you choose the correct each year at ground level. Lilacs spring the shrub. Search for crossing branches or implement. back with vigorous new growth after this branches aiming toward the center of the plant. Cut cleanly but leave a small collar of the limb in place (about 1/2 inch). Of course, any dead or diseased branches are Late winter is the best time to prune noticeable now too. Good time to remove trees and shrubs; now is a good time to them. start learning how to do it. Photo by Joan Weed You might notice young whips growing among your lilacs or alongside fruit trees. In the case of lilacs, you’ll want to It is important to know which shrubs can leave a few select healthy ones to replace take a complete trim and which it is wiser what you have removed. Alongside to leave except for dead branches. The trees, trim the competing whips to the best way to learn is by attending a class or ground. Hollies and shrub roses have reading a book on the subject (with good similar pruning needs. Look for outward diagrams) or studying other gardeners’ facing nubs on the stem you are working efforts. For example, rhododendrons are on and cut at an angle about 1/4 inch only pruned for shape or to remove dead above the nub. Imagine where you’d like limbs. to see a new branch form and grow. I hope you’ll try to manage those Another kind of pruning is called overgrown specimens in your garden. Be coppicing. This is where you take a brave! Most shrubs can take a good trim plant to the ground by trimming. I have now and then. done it successfully with cotinus, red- twigged dogwood and the aforementioned forsythia. 14 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News Town Library news We are so excited to share that we are a recipient of American Library Association’s Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small and Rural Margaret Woodruff Libraries initiative. DIRECTOR Stay tuned for details about plans for community-wide conversations built on results from the Charlotte Resilience Assessment. Looking for new books? Take a stroll its history; and now his prized possession, and worked in Florence. Leonardo was down the library porch to see the titles on a rare collection of Poe poems, has been a charming, handsome fifty year-old at display. Check our Facebook page for the stolen...Even the books in his store have the peak of his career. Michelangelo was latest book details or join Margaret every stopped holding pleasure for him. These a temperamental sculptor in his mid- Friday morning for a virtual browsing days, he can only see them as a sign of a twenties, desperate to make a name for session (see details below). world that is changing too rapidly. And himself. Oil and Marble is the story of their then a mysterious package appears at the nearly forgotten rivalry. Getting ready to garden? Sign up for bookstore. It’s a small package, though For the latest information about programs, Book Chatter: the Charlotte Seed Library blog to stay large in weight—an unexpected arrival that books and activity kits, sign up for our Martin Luther King’s Legacy up-to-date with the latest local gardening gives A.J. the opportunity to make his life monthly newsletter: Charlotte Library Friday, January 22 @ 10am information: https://charlotteseedlibrary. over, the ability to see everything anew. Newsletter. org/ Meander: to take a winding or indirect Book Chatter: The Gritty Mystery The library building is closed to the public course. We’ll be doing just that! Join Upcoming Programs at the Charlotte Friday, January 15 @ 10am but books and other materials are available Margaret for a virtual stroll through the Library: Please contact the library at for porch pickup. [email protected] for the Meander: to take a winding or indirect library collections. Focusing on a different Zoom registration links to our programs. course. We’ll be doing just that! Join topic or theme each week, she’ll share new Porch pickup hours: Margaret for a virtual stroll through the titles and some old favorites. There will Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Coding Club library collections. Focusing on a different be plenty of time to share your ideas and 11 am to 6 pm Wednesdays @ 3pm, topic or theme each week, she’ll share new suggestions, too! Tuesday and Thursday: beginning January 13 titles and some old favorites. There will 10 am to 5 pm Get coding with Susanna and coding be plenty of time to share your ideas and Seed Library Book Discussion: mentor Charlie! All levels are welcome to suggestions, too! Seed Underground Saturday: learn Scratch or hone their Scratch skills. Friday, January 22 & Friday, 10 am to 2 pm Ready to take your coding know-how to Mystery Book Group: January 29 @ 11am Please call or email to let us know what Dead Men Don’t Ski by Patricia Moyes the next level? We will have a breakout Join Linda Hamilton, Charlotte Seed we can set out for you! Not sure what to Monday, January 18 @ 10am room with Charlie to work on different Library Co-Coordinator for a 2-part read? We’re happy to help select books for platforms. 4th grade and up. The setting is the Italian Alps, where Henry readers of all ages! Tibbett. on vacation from Scotland Yard. discussion about this essential book. Book Talk with Jesse Wegman and his wife. Emmy. have settled in for Acclaimed author Janisse Ray draws Library Contact Information Thursday, January 14 @ Noon some skiing. But their hopes for a holiday us into the issues and the urgency of Margaret Woodruff, Director New York Times columnist and author, die when Henry uncovers an international protecting food sovereignty through Cheryl Sloan, Youth Services Librarian Jesse Wegman, shares the details from smuggling ring involving some of the seeds, weaving together inspiring stories Susanna Kahn, Tech Librarian his latest book, Let the People Pick the hotel guests. Then, a fellow guest who is of ordinary gardeners who are doing the Phone: 802.425.3864 President: The Case for Abolishing the alive when the ski lift leaves the top of essential work of saving time-honored, Email: [email protected] Electoral College. “Wegman combines the mountain is found dead when the lift open-pollenated varieties for themselves in-depth historical analysis and insight into touches bottom. and to share with others. An important contemporary politics to present a cogent read for everyone who gardens, and in fact argument that the Electoral College violates Craft & Chat for everyone who eats! Copies of the book America’s ‘core democratic principles’ and Tuesday, January 19 @ 2pm are available at the Charlotte Library. should be done away with ...” Take a break Grab a cup of tea and your latest project from work or class and join us for this and meet up with Susanna and fellow insightful and timely session. crafters for a relaxing hour of conversation and inspiration. Library Book Discussion: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin Men’s Book Group: Thursday, January 14 @ 7:30pm Oil & Marble by Stephanie Storey A. J. Fikry’s life is not at all what he Wednesday, January 20 @ 7:30pm expected it to be. His wife has died; his From 1501—1505, Leonardo da Vinci bookstore is experiencing the worst sales in and Michelangelo Buonarroti both lived The Charlotte News • January 14, 2021 • 15 Town Charlotte Senior Center news inner poetry magician. As poet Billy Collins says, “Poetry is for giving voice and reminding us there is much more to life than what I’m usually doing.” Join us on a poetry odyssey to inspire your writing. Fee: $48 for the series of 90-min. classes. Please resister by 1/20. Carolyn Kulik SENIOR CENTER DIRECTOR 1/27: Coping with COVID with Karen Chatfield Wednesday mornings, 11a.m–12 noon. “Courage. Kindness. Friendship. Dates: 1/27, 2/10 & 2/24. Character. These are the qualities that Registration required by prior Monday. define us as human beings, and propel us, Join your peers to explore coping on occasion, to greatness.” strategies and share methods you ~ R.J. Palacio, Wonder have used to deal with life during the pandemic. This group is designed to “You do not need to know precisely what provide connections and support as we is happening, or exactly where it is all navigate “the new normal” together. going. What you need is to recognize the Please note that this group is not possibilities and challenges offered by intended to be a substitute for therapy the present moment, and to embrace them or professional mental health treatment. with courage, faith and hope.” Registration is required, but one need not ~ Thomas Merton attend every meeting. No fee. ______this challenging time. Bistro. This will include tips, techniques This Week 1/27: Mindfulness Meditation Practice and easy-to-follow instructions on how to Questions? Need help with Zooming? — Blood Drive with Jill Abilock create special desserts using chocolate as Please email: [email protected], or 1/19: A friendly reminder that the next Wednesday afternoons, 2:30-3:45 p.m. the key ingredient. Chef Arnd will explore leave a message at (802) 425-6345. Red Cross Blood Drive is on Tuesday, Ongoing. the beauty and texture of different kinds You can’t always change what you Jan. 19, from 1–6 p.m. at the Senior ______of chocolate just in time for Valentine’s experience in life, but you can change Center, although the building is closed Day. For all you chocolate lovers this is how you experience it. Mindfulness for other activities. If you wish to Talks on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. one not to miss! Meditation provides tools that help These free, interactive events are online donate urgently needed blood, please ~ Arnd Sievers is a European Certified change how you experience things, via Zoom. go to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800- Master Chef who serves as the Culinary increasing fulfillment and happiness, and Please note that they do not require RED CROSS. Strict health protocols Services Director at The Residences at reducing stress. Registration necessary. registration. The Zoom invitation/link to will be followed for the safety of those Shelburne Bay and Quarry Hill. He is No fee. the talks are posted on the website the day participating in this event. from Hamelin, Germany, and has worked before: CharlotteSeniorCenterVT.org. The throughout the U.S. and internationally in link also appears in Front Porch Forum — New Course 1/27: Snowshoe Expeditions fine hotels and restaurants. 1/14: Screen Writing for Fun, Part II with Susan Hyde for that week. Wednesday mornings. Dates: 1/27, 2/10 with Mark Williams 2/10: Looking at The Night Sky with & 2/24. 1/20: COVID-19 Update in 2021: What Thursday evenings, 6:30–7:45. Jack St. Louis Dates: 1/14 – 2/4 (Rescheduled from For more information, please email Susan Now? with Jim Hyde directly at: susanfosterhyde@gmail. This session will provide a quick Dec.) 2/17: Nepal: Through the Eyes of An com. Please note that this activity may be update on the prevalence of the “new” Work on creating the turning points in American with Sandi Detwiler your movie’s story that propel the main restricted by the VT Dept. of Health. coronavirus variant, testing (screening, ______diagnostic and surveillance), and the character into action. Everyone’s movie 2/24: Here’s Looking at You...Louise latest on new vaccine development and is discussed supportively in class each How to Register for a Course Nevelson! with Linda Finkelstein week, and this helps build creative energy. vaccination progress here in Vermont. At All courses are online—and all require least half of the time will be devoted to Newcomers welcome. Fee: $48 for the Art Exhibits registration in order to receive the Q&A. series of 75-min. classes. The Senior Center’s monthly art exhibits invitation/link. ~ Jim Hyde is a Professor Emeritus of are suspended until further notice. Next Week—Courses To register, send your name, mailing Public Health at the Tufts University 1/18: Conflict Resolution with Mark address and phone number to: School of Medicine and former Be careful. We are all in this together. Williams [email protected]. Be sure to note Director of Preventive Medicine at the The end is in sight. Monday afternoons, 1–2. the title of the course in the subject line of Massachusetts Dept. of Public Health. Dates: 1/18-2/22. (6 weeks) the email. You will receive confirmation ______that you are registered. Please send Using role-playing and mediation 1/27: Bringing Portraits to Life with exercises, participants in this 6-week a separate email and registration For more expanded descriptions, as Jonathan Silverman well as additional courses and talks, class will learn practical skills, such as: information for each course. How do artists tell stories through please visit CharlotteSeniorCenterVT. how to calm an angry person down, how portraits? This presentation explores org. The mission of the Senior Center is to empathize with a person with whom Payment—If there is a fee, kindly pay the world of familiar and unfamiliar to serve those 50 and up; some course you disagree, and more. Fee: $48. Please by check (made out to CSC) and send to: portraits from early Renaissance to the enrollments are limited, and if a course register by 1/15. P.O. Box 207, Charlotte, VT 05445. Be 21st century. By showing how artists is not full, younger participants are sure to note the title of the course in the from different genres paint and sculpt welcome to enroll. Feel free to leave a 1/19: Better Balance: Session B with memo line. human expressions, moods and spirit, the message anytime at 425-6345; voicemail Laurel Lakey presenter helps us understand historic • For ongoing exercise courses, please pay is checked frequently. Tuesday & Thursday mornings, 11–11:45. and cultural context, enrich our sense of at the end of each month for the classes ______Dates: 1/19–2/25. (12 classes) attended. Unless otherwise stated, tally aesthetics, and reflect on our own identity. Offered online in conjunction with Dee your attendance and figure $5/class. ~ Jonathan Silverman is a professor “It is not the strength of the body that PT, this course is designed to improve • For courses with a limited set of dates, emeritus from Saint Michael’s College counts, but the strength of the spirit.” ~ your balance and reduce fall risk. It is kindly pay prior to the start of the course. where he coordinated the arts education J.R.R. Tolkien appropriate for individuals of varied Fees vary. program. He maintains his artistic identity ______balance abilities; recommendations will Please check the course description through ceramics and watercolors. An be made to adjust exercise difficulty. for the fee above, in the printed exhibition of his work will be displayed Charlotte Senior Center Newcomers welcome. Fee: $45. Winter Schedule, or visit the website at the Senior Center in December and 802-425-6345 Registration required by 1/15. CharlotteSeniorCentrVT.org. We are not January. CharlotteSeniorCenterVT.org able to confirm receipt of your check. 1/22: Poetry Magic with Laurie If fees present a hardship, don’t hesitate 2/03: Chocolate: Techniques & Recipes McMillan to request an adjustment by sending an for Simply Spectacular Desserts with Friday mornings, 11–12:30. email to [email protected]. We want Chef Arnd Dates: 1/22, 1/29, 2/5 & 2/12. everyone to be able to keep themselves Join us for an interactive, live chef demo We’ll play with exercises to loosen your healthy and engaged, especially during from The Residence at Shelburne Bay 16 • January 14, 2021 • The Charlotte News

BABIES training involved keeping people calm and giving them support, he said, which is a valu- continued from page 1 able skill in a high-pressure situation like this. Though he practiced on mannequins and spent Classifieds Barney got to the scene right in time; this was his first time delivering a baby. “The rumor is a lot of time in the classroom, he said, “You Reach your friends and neighbors for only $12 per issue. (Payment must be sent before that when he got in the bathroom the baby’s can only learn so much from a Powerpoint.” issue date.) Please limit your ad to 35 words or fewer and send it to The Charlotte News legs were already out,” Willa said. “I had no Baby number one was born at 8:20 a.m., just Classifieds, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 or email [email protected]. idea we were that close! He caught her out of 35 minutes after her first contraction. Mullin mid-air, it felt like.” said they were dispatched from the station at THE CHARLOTTE NEWS: FOR THE MT. PHILO INN - A unique hotel with 8:08 and took four minutes to reach the Lamp- Mullin said that Barney did an excellent job on PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE. panoramic views of Lake Champlain man’s home in West Charlotte. his own. “I went to get some equipment, and I In addition to our professional staff of and private road to Mt. Philo. came back and Arron was holding a baby girl,” Shelburne Rescue was on the scene as well, three, as many as 170 people provide 1800 sq. ft., 3-bedroom suites with 2 he said. and Mullin said he was grateful for their stories, photos and commentaries to bathrooms and a complete kitchen. Though Barney, who was spending the day professionalism. “It went really, really well— The Charlotte News each year. By the day, week and month.Privacy, riding along with Mullin as part of the process with everything that could have gone wrong Join us! Send your story ideas, space, tranquility. Bigger on the and didn’t… it was like clockwork.” Barney to be hired as a crew chief, hadn’t delivered a commentaries and great photos of inside. MtPhiloInn.com, 425-3335. noted that, even though he had never met the baby before, he had participated in 80 hours of Charlotte to [email protected] OB training as part of his paramedic training in Shelburne first responders, “It was like we had been working together for 15 years.” Let your voice be heard. HOUSE CLEANING HOMES/CAMPS/ Lake Placid, N.Y., where he grew up and still SMALL BUSINESSES Experienced, works as a paramedic. Though he had never After the first baby was born, Barney rode with Need a fresh start to 2021? Let Efficient & Reliable COVID Safety quite participated in a delivery during that Willa in the CVFRS ambulance to UVMMC, Lafayette Painting give your home a Protocol including masks & gloves. time, he said the outward calm he projected the baby rode in an assisting ambulance from beautiful new look. Our painters can Clean living is more important now than reflected his inner state. Mullin allowed him to Shelburne, and Eric followed in his own do a lot in a day. LafayettePaintingInc. ever! Please call for Estimate take the lead without hesitation. car. The second baby, a boy, was born in the emergency department with CVFRS still com or call 863-5397 to hear about our (802)355-0355 Willa said Barney and Mullin’s professional- winter discount. ism and skills helped make a scary situation on hand. The girl is named Rhodes, a name feel manageable. “Arron jumped in there, and the Lampmans had already chosen, but they he was so cool as a cucumber, and ten minutes thought they had a little more time to think of served a lot of credit for his demeanor during They are grateful for healthy babies—who later we had a baby girl,” she said. “I was defi- the boy’s name, and in the excitement of the the birth as well, and that both of them were ended up being born in two different towns— nitely freaking out, but Arron and Rob handled week they haven’t been able to choose yet. a pleasure to help. “Eric was a trooper, both and the Lampmans are also grateful for it so beautifully, and they made me feel like Both babies by Tuesday night were getting of them were great—very well mannered and CVFRS and Shelburne Rescue. “These guys they had the situation under control.” ready to transition out of the NICU and back to very well behaved. He didn’t get in the way, deserve a gold medal,” Willa said. “They were their parents. he did what we told him to do—it was just a so amazing…They’re really good at delivering “It felt like slow motion, like getting ready to good, good call. It’s a great way to start out the babies. They can add that to their resumé. We take off in a plane, where everything was set After acknowledging that Willa did the hard new year.” are so grateful to our first responders.” the way it needed to be,” he said. A lot of his work of the morning, Mullin said that Eric de-

SIGN pineapple became a symbol of hospitality and and putting it out, though he said business is at feeling,” he said. “It’s of no use to anyone, it’s continued from page 1 togetherness. I liked that tradition.” a bit of a standstill at the moment. not even iconic, even, in the sense of a Coca Cola sign or some cool old farm equipment “It was a fairly sophisticated sign,” Bower The Inn at Charlotte sign wasn’t large— “Given covid circumstances, there’s no sign—it’s the Inn at Charlotte. I don’t even said. “It would basically last forever out in the Vermont law only allows businesses one sign, business,” he said. “No one is coming and know what good it does anyone. So that’s weather. It was a beautiful sign.” and it can only be six square feet total—but it quarantining for two weeks, and no one can disappointing.” meant something to Bower. He said slightly afford to even stay at a B&B for 14 days, A pineapple might seem slightly out of place wistfully that he was joking when he called it so I’m just trying to get by—the sign is not Bower said the memory of working with Wells at a B&B in a Vermont farm town, but Bower a landmark; the sign, however, was definitely particularly necessary at this moment anyway. was special. “That was a good experience, said the fruit is a well-known symbol of one of the clear indicators to travelers that they I’m taking my time, and when the weather gets but I can’t afford to make another one,” he welcome. “The pineapple goes back to the were indeed in Charlotte. “It’s a pity,” he said. right I’m going to sand down the old sign and said. He is a painter and sculptor, and works days of tall ships plying the seas,” he said, try and fix it up.” from his studio at the inn, and said that though “and sailors would land in exotic places and Bower was filing a police report this week and he’s good at documenting his work, he never pick up exotic things to return with when they wasn’t feeling very optimistic that the sign The sense of loss from having something actually took a photo of the Inn at Charlotte go home to friends and family. One of those would turn up again. He had hung on to his old treasured stolen is rarely about the monetary sign. He hopes that if someone out there has was a pineapple, and through that process the business sign, so is thinking of spiffing it up value or the thing itself. “It’s not a good one, they’ll let him know.

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