Thursday, March 9, 2017

Breaking up

River watch

Holding court

Bluegrass Gospel Project will play one last concert before disbanding. See Arts + Leisure.

Local citizen-scientists are being trained to test stream water quality. See Page 10A.

The Mount Abe girls won their first-round D-II playoff game and face Fair Haven next. See Page 1B.

ADDISON COUNTY

Vol. 71 No. 10

INDEPENDENT Middlebury, Vermont

Orwell rejects unification, faces showdown with state

By JOHN FLOWERS ORWELL — Orwell residents on Town Meeting Day again rejected a proposal to join a school governance merger with five nearby Rutland County communities, setting the stage for a potential showdown with the state under Vermont’s Act 46.

Orwell residents voted 219-137 against joining Benson, Castleton, Fair Haven, Hubbardton, and

West Haven in forming a unified Slate Valley Unified Union School District that would have established one board to represent all of the member schools and create a single K-12 budget.

It was the third time Orwell has rejected the merger proposal. And this time, Orwell had company.

Fair Haven voters rejected the plan by a slim, 220-208 tally.

(See Orwell, Page 20A)

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Thursday, March 9, 2017  46 Pages

$1.00

Daniels edges Benton in mayor’s race

Former city leader topples incumbent

By ANDY KIRKALDY VERGENNES — The race on Tuesday for Vergennes mayor between two-term incumbent Bill Benton and former three-term mayor Mike Daniels went to Daniels by a slim margin, 270-265, in turnout of about 31 percent.

The win marked the second time Daniels, 69, unseated a sitting Vergennes mayor. He first won the job in 2007 by defeating incumbent April Jin, and then served for six years.

Daniels has also served five years in two separate stints on the Vergennes City Council, the second of which ended this past March.

Benton is a real estate appraiser who, like Daniels, has a long history of volunteerism in Vergennes. He also defeated Jin to become mayor, in 2013, after one term on the city council. Earlier his winter, Benton said he wanted to serve one more term as mayor to complete ongoing initiatives, and then step down. Those

efforts he cited included Otter Creek basin projects, city pool upgrades, and work to improve downtown pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Despite the close result, Benton on Wednesday morning said in an email he had “no idea” if he would ask for a recount, and otherwise declined comment. According to Vergennes City Clerk Joan Devine, he has 10 days after the election to seek a recount.

Daniels said he would have no objection to a recount request, and would “offer my support to Bill” if

one created a different result.

“I totally respect whatever he does.

I would hate to be in his shoes,” he said. “I feel bad in one sense, but in these positions someone is a winner and someone doesn’t walk away with the name.”

Daniels and Benton stood outside the city’s fire station polling place for much of Tuesday and got the sense the race was tight.

“It was nip and tuck throughout the day, and it showed when the numbers were counted,” Daniels said.

(See Mayor, Page 19A)

Ferrisburgh treasurer out; clerk retains post Landslide elections might be last for jobs

By ANDY KIRKALDY FERRISBURGH — Ferrisburgh residents on Tuesday ended the tenure of Treasurer Garrit Smits, who had faced criticism for his accounting performance and work schedule from the town selectboard, co-workers, and town and professional auditors.

Smits ran for re-election against town auditor Deb Healey, who resigned her post to challenge him and defeated Smits in the race, 53182.

Smits in January also filed to run for town clerk against incumbent Gloria Warden, whom he had defeated for the treasurer’s post in 2014. But this time around Warden coasted to victory, 571-60.

(See Ferrisburgh, Page 20A)

Town Meeting 2017

ADDSION COUNTY RESIDENTS gathered Saturday, Monday and Tuesday for their annual town meetings. Ferrisburgh resident Nick Thomann, right, rose in the Ferrisburgh Central School gymnasium to ask a question Saturday morning. Waltham residents, above, filled their town hall for Monday night’s meeting, and Panton selectboard Chair Howard Hall, below left, shook hands with outgoing Vice Chair John Viskup Tuesday morning in Panton. See reports from all 23 Addison County town meetings, and Brandon, on Pages 12A-17A.

Independent photos/Trent Campbell

Middlebury approves budget and police dog

By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury residents passed everything on their town meeting agenda, including a proposed 2017-2018 municipal budget of $10,321,456 and a $30,620 plan to enlist a four-legged recruit for the community’s police department.

With the old municipal gym on South Main Street now a (See Middlebury, Page 18A)

Local educators honored for service to Brandon

JANE AND BUD Coolidge accept a standing ovation from the crowd at Brandon’s town meeting Monday night at the Brandon Town Hall, as selectboard Chair Doug Bailey looks on. The couple was honored with the dedication of the annual town report.

Brandon Reporter photo/Lee J. Kahrs

By LEE J. KAHRS through elementary school.

BRANDON — The gathering The roomful of town meeting at the Brandon Town Hall Monday attendees, 115 strong, gave the evening may go down couple a standing as the feel-good town “I was ovation as they were meeting of this young flabbergasted introduced and made century. when I saw our their way to the front Not only were local picture. I want of the hall. The crowd residents excited to hold stayed on their feet as this year’s town meeting to thank you for Jane Coolidge began by in the Brandon Town the kind words. saying what an honor Hall for the first time I love Brandon. I it was to have the town since 1979, but they love the people, report dedicated to enjoyed the highlight of and I love them. the evening: the homage “I was flabbergasted teaching school. when paid to lifelong residents I saw our picture,” Jane and Bud Coolidge It’s a privilege she exclaimed. “I want and their expressions of for me to be part to thank you for the kind thanks. of Brandon. It’s words. I love Brandon.

This year’s Brandon a privilege to I love the people, and Town Report was be part of this I love teaching school. dedicated to the It’s a privilege for me to Coolidges.

The community.” be part of Brandon. It’s — Jane Coolidge a privilege to be part of beloved couple are Brandon natives this community.” who spent their working lives Jane was born in Middlebury shepherding the town’s children (See Coolidges, Page 19A)

By the way Two things not to forget this Saturday: 1. Go to the Vermont Chili Fest in Middlebury during the afternoon, and 2. turn your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed so (See By the way, Page 18A)

Index Obituaries................................. 6A Classifieds.......................... 4B-8B Service Directory............... 6B-7B Entertainment.........Arts + Leisure Community Calendar......... 8A-9A Arts Calendar.........Arts + Leisure Sports................................. 1B-3B

PAGE 2A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

Song and dance Seuss

ABOUT 60 MEMBERS of the Middlebury Union High School senior class will be on stage this weekend for “Seussical the Musical.” The show, based on stories by Dr. Seuss, had its debut on Broadway in 2000. The show goes on stage at MUHS on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and on Sunday at 2 p.m. All profits from the MUHS senior class production will benefit Project Graduation. The show features Hattie Lindert as the Cat in the Hat and Fiona O’Neil as Jo Jo, right. Also seen here from a Tuesday rehearsal are, clockwise from top left, Patrick Messenger, Joe Langevin and Bryce Kowalczyk; O’Neil; Meigan Clark, Colleen Wilson, Lauren Turner, Tasha Hescock and Lucas Pyle; DJ Sandler, Tommy Maron and Ronan Howlett; Henry Ganey, Mikayla Robinson, Rowan Hendy, Charlotte Keathley and Chanyiah Lawrence; The Whos; Brittany Baker and O’Neil; Skylar Franklin as Horton; Pyle, Wilson, Hescock and Turner; Hannah Roque, Hescock, Pyle and Wilson; Clark, Lindert and Messenger; and a group production.

Independent photos/Trent Campbell

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 3A

County school budgets OK’d

By INDEPENDENT STAFF forward to working together in our ADDISON COUNTY / BRAN- new ACSD community to maintain DON — The only time the “No” and grow our commitment to eduvotes carried the day in voting on cation and our students.” area school issues on Town MeetACSD voters on Tuesday ing Day was the rejection in Orwell also voted 1,374 to 432 to place of a school unification plan. Other- $482,000 in surplus funds into a wise, it was all “Yes” for Addison capital reserve fund to make imCounty and Brandon schools as all provements to ACSD school propeducation budget proposals were erties. And they voted 1,484 to 314 approved. in favor of an article seeking perVoters in the three new unified mission to make future ACSD anunion school districts that were ap- nual reports available electronicalproved last year — Addison North- ly, instead of automatically sending west School District, Addison Cen- them to all addresses in the seven tral School District and Otter Valley member towns.

Unified Union School District — Elected to the ACSD board in unall OK’d district wide, K-12 spend- contested elections were Suzanne ing plans for the first time. In addi- Buck of Bridport, three years; Jention the elementary and high school nifer Nuceder of Salisbury, three budgets in Addison Northeast also years; Marty Gill and Victoria carried the day, and the education Jette, both of Middlebury, each for spending plans in three-year terms; Granville and Hanand James Malcolm cock were approved of Middlebury, two by voice votes. years.

Residents of the ADDISON Addison Central, AdNORTHWEST dison Northeast and Residents of the Addison Northwest five communities of school districts also the Addison Norththrew their support west School District behind a proposed backed the first-ever 2017-2018 Patricia unified union budget A. Hannaford Caof $21,116,289 by a reer Center budget “The strong voter 924-699 tally, or 57of $3,482,549. Res43 percent. idents voted 4,176 support for the Residents of Ferto 1,397 in favor of ACSD is truly risburgh, Vergennes the budget, which re- amazing and and Waltham gave flects a 1.39-percent a nice vote of solid support to a decrease in spend- confidence in the plan that supports ing compared to this the four ANWSD direction we are year. schools and its cenH e a d q u a r t e r e d headed.” tral office, plus the — ACSD board district’s share of in Middlebury, the Chairman the Career Center Career Center delivPeter Conlon budget. Panton and ers vocational and technical education Addison voters went to students in 17 Addison County against the proposal, but by close towns. margins.

ADDISON CENTRAL The budget calls for a 1.68 percent Addison Central Supervisory increase over current district-wide District (ACSD) voters overwhelm- ANWSD spending spread over four ingly approved their first-ever uni- separate budgets, but is slightly less fied, K-12 budget on Tuesday by a than the 2015-2016 district spend1,363 to 466 margin. ing total of $21,159,752.

The $37.2 million spending plan Residents in all five communities reflects $30,428,802 in net, local also approved creating a $100,000 education spending for the ACSD capital reserve fund, using surplus schools serving Bridport, Cornwall, funds that accrued to member towns Middlebury, Ripton, Salisbury, according to the most recent audit.

Shoreham and Weybridge. That’s The overall vote was 1,008 to 608. around 2.17-percent less than what With the 10-cent discount from was budgeted for the combined unification factored in, residents in ACSD schools this year.

Addison, Ferrisburgh and Waltham “The strong voter support for the are expected to see significant deACSD is truly amazing and a nice creases in their homestead property vote of confidence in the direc- tax rates, while Panton will break tion we are headed,” ACSD board roughly even and Vergennes could Chairman Peter Conlon said of the see a small increase. budget vote.

ANWSD Superintendent JoAn Peter Burrows, superintendent of Canning described the spending ACSU schools, also thanked voters plan as a “level-program budget,” for their support of the consolidated one that would preserve teaching pospending plan. sitions and educational programs but “I am overwhelmed by the com- offer no new spending initiatives. mitment of our ACSD commuWhile grateful for the support, nity to educating our students,” Canning said the budget would he said. “In our inaugural ACSD also give ANWSD administrators budget, our communities resound- breathing room after a year of planingly voted to support the work of ning for the unification transition to our staff, teachers, administrators, tackle the issues — raised by some and board in providing exception- residents — of dealing with declinal learning opportunities for our ing enrollment, teacher-student rastudents. We are at a time of much tios and student performance. positive change with a new unified “The reality is that we need to board, becoming an International be clear about what the budget is Baccalaureate World District, and about and how it’s going to affect continuing to work to engage all taxpayers,” Canning said. “And so students in being prepared for life I’m just really excited about the fact in a rapidly changing world. I look that most people understood that,

and we are going to be able to work together and think about a longrange plan to address some of the issues that have been raised about declining enrollment and class size, and the ways we might be able to improve outcomes for kids.”

There are new elements in the budget, including district-wide athletic and maintenance oversight jobs, and ANWSD officials are also working with Addison Northeast on a proposed food service merger.

“I’m appreciative of the vote, and I think this is a great opportunity for our district,” Canning said. “This lays the groundwork for us to be able to move forward as a unified district and for us to be able to see those efficiencies, and the ability to use resources in a different way.

ADDISON NORTHEAST Voters throughout the five towns of the Addison Northeast Supervisory Union approved the $12,261,839 Mount Abraham Union High School budget, 1,333796 with all ballots commingled.

The Mount Abe spending represents an 8.42 percent decrease from the current academic year.

That budget includes $1 million to fix the aging Mount Abe building.

The proposed spending plans for the five elementary schools in the towns of Bristol, Lincoln, Monkton, New Haven and Starksboro also were approved by voters in those towns — the last time they will do so with a unified budget in the plans for next year.

OTTER VALLEY Voters in the Otter Valley Unified Union School District approved the first budget of the merged district on Town Meeting Day, 635-438.

Voters in Brandon, Pittsford, Sudbury, Leicester, Whiting and Goshen approved the net education spending amount of $19,088,683, a 1.34 percent increase over current spending, or $251,000. Overall education spending per equalized pupil is up 1.4 percent, or $202.

The proposed budget included a reduction in staff of 4.8 full-time equivalent teachers and three aides.

Despite the increase, property taxes will drop because Act 46 has tax relief built in for districts that consolidated within a prescribed timeframe. The district got an eightcent cut in property taxes over the current fiscal year. In the coming second year, the incentive is four cents, and the third year, it will be two cents. After that, the Act 46 property tax incentive ends.

Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union Superintendent Jeanne Collins said Tuesday night that informing voters a year in advance about preliminary budget numbers and community input helped achieve an approved budget.

“I’m very pleased and very grateful that we continue to have the support of our communities,” she said.

“I think it was a very well thought out, balanced budget.”

Collins added that considered the task at hand in planning a successful merger in a timely manner, she is very happy with the budget approval.

“We were only up by 1.4 percent, and we’re covering seven schools and about 1,250 students, and we were able to reduce staffing,” she said. “Act 46 enabled us to reduce 2.4 staff positions and right-size our district.”

Q&A

PANTON SELCTBOARD CHAIR Howard Hall answers a question during town meeting Tuesday morning.

Independent photo/ Trent Campbell

Middlebury seeks tax privileges

Special tax eyed for parking garage

By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — The town of Middlebury is joining a lobbying effort in Montpelier to lift the state’s current cap on the number of towns that can use Tax Increment Financing, or TIF, as a way of bankrolling improvements to public infrastructure.

Specifically, the Middlebury selectboard sees TIF as a potential revenue source for a new downtown parking garage.

“We will not make inroads on a parking garage without something like this,” selectboard Chairman Brian Carpenter said while advocating for TIF at a recent board meeting.

TIF gives communities the ability to capture and use most of the increased local property tax revenues from new development in a specific geographic area to pay back investments on the infrastructure (such as water and sewer connections) to help make that new development possible. Current state law limits the use of TIF to a combined total of 11 specific districts in the municipalities of Burlington, Milton, Newport, Winooski, Colchester, Hartford, St. Albans and Barre.

But officials in several other communities have expressed a desire to get in on the act. David White of the Burlington-based real estate company White & Burke is lobbying the Legislature on behalf of four communities that want to join the TIF club: Bennington, Rutland, Springfield and Montpelier. He has been actively recruiting others — including St. Johnsbury and Middlebury.

White made his initial pitch to the Middlebury selectboard back on Feb. 14. The board didn’t take him up on it then, but has since warmed to the idea, with the end-game being a parking garage to augment downtown spaces. Past parking studies have shown Middlebury to have adequate parking, but many of those spaces aren’t deemed close enough to shops, offices and restaurants.

The Middlebury board on Feb. 27 voted 6-1, with Selectwoman Susan Shashok opposed, to join White’s consortium of Vermont towns in the lobbying effort to lift the TIF cap.

The board also directed town Manager Kathleen Ramsay to look within the budget for the town’s $5,000 contribution to the lobbying effort.

White has some experience with TIF. He helped secure TIF status for four of the original 11 TIF districts.

One of his company’s services is to help developers negotiate the TIF process in communities that have it.

Officials said Middlebury’s chances of gaining TIF privileges likely rest in bill S.99, currently be-

ing reviewed by the Senate Finance Committee. S.99 proposes to allow the Vermont Economic Progress Council to approve up to two TIF districts per county, for up to seven years.

In order to advance, the bill must make the legislative crossover deadline of March 17. In other words, the full Senate must act on S.99 and send it to the House by the end of next week, or it is likely to die this year.

Rep. Robin Scheu, D-Middlebury, is a member of the House Corrections and Institutions Committee.

She is also executive Director of the Addison County Economic Development Corp., and supports the use of TIF as a tool for business growth.

She signed onto a bill this year authored by Rep. Fred Baser, R-Bristol, which proposes TIF as a financing mechanism for more workforce housing in the state.

Scheu said she’s pleased to see TIF getting more debate in the Legislature this year.

“In the past, it hasn’t been given a lot of time, and this year, there’s a lot of buzz about it,” Scheu said.

“People are paying attention and they are learning more about what it means. There are some misconceptions about how TIFs work.”

Among those misconceptions, according to Scheu, is the notion that TIFs divert revenues from the state’s education fund. She and other TIF supporters argue that the new projects that generate the new TIF revenues would not have occurred were it not for TIF. So the tax dollars being used to pay the TIF debt would be money that otherwise wouldn’t have been generated.

Sen. Claire Ayer, D-Addison, was until last year a member of the Senate Finance Committee. She said talk of expanding TIF had cooled off during her time on that panel.

“I was kind of surprised to see TIFs being revived,” Ayer said of the renewed buzz.

Historically, foregoing tax revenue has often been an easier sell that raising taxes and fees, she said.

“We tend to give away taxes and think it doesn’t cost any money, which is much easier to do than actually appropriate funds,” Ayer said.

Middlebury officials believe TIF could ultimately deliver a parking garage, perhaps within the context of a mixed-use development slated for a town-owned parcel — also called the “Economic Development Initiative (EDI)” lot — behind the Ilsley Library. NexBridge Partners

emerged from four groups that expressed interest in developing the lot. The NexBridge plan includes a multi-story structure that would accommodate a variety of retail, office and residential uses. Plans also include a parking garage.

At least one firm originally interested in the EDI parcel bowed out citing the difficulty of designing a profitable plan within the town’s rules on how the land could be developed.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT A majority of the selectboard believes TIF could make it more affordable for developers to include the parking garage within the EDI project, or as part of some future development in town.

“This is the one vehicle that might make (parking) a reality for the town,” Carpenter said.

Some of Carpenter’s colleagues asked if the town could accomplish its TIF objective through its legislative delegation, as opposed to through a lobbyist.

“I don’t like the idea of spending $5,000 for someone to lobby,” Shashok said.

Selectman Victor Nuovo agreed.

“I don’t have confidence in Mr. White to bring that about,” Nuovo said. “I’m not inclined to give him $5,000 to be our lobbyist. We have two active legislators who I think would work hard for us on this.”

But Carpenter said the town’s representatives can’t always be in corners of the Statehouse where key decisions are made on bills that aren’t within the purview of their own respective committees.

“Someone needs to be there,” Carpenter said. “If we want to be in there… $5,000 is pretty cheap for a lobbyist.”

Selectman Nick Artim agreed.

“The return on investment is apparently very large,” he said.

Selectwoman Donna Donahue, speaking at her last board meeting, urged the town to pursue TIF. “A $5,000 lobbying fee would not be my first choice,” Donahue said, but added, “If we get parking, it would be money well spent.”

Selectwoman Heather Seeley said two people, within the space of a week, told her they had to turn around and leave downtown Middlebury because they couldn’t find a place to park.

“Anything we could do to change that would be to our benefit,” she said.

Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.

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PAGE 4A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

A DDIS ON INDE P E NDEN T

Letters

Editorials

to the Editor

School budgets get thumbs up School budgets across Addison County and in most towns throughout the state received overwhelming approval at this year’s town meetings. According to the Vermont Superintendents Association, voters approved 183 district school budgets, while only 18 were defeated. That’s a noticeable difference compared to significant defeats for school budgets more than a decade earlier.

What’s changed? Many things, but chief among them are school boards that are proposing more conservative budgets that reflect declining enrollments. Of the four unified district schools in Addison County and Brandon, only one district (Otter Valley Unified Union School District) proposed an increase over the prior year’s budget — and that was held to 1.4 percent.

The other three districts proposed decreases in spending ranging from 2.17 percent drop at Addison Central School District (Middlebury area), to 1.68 percent cut in spending for Addison Northwest (Vergennes). In addition to those cuts in spending, Act 46 offered early takers a staggered tax relief.

Act 46 has also been an unexpected success. This year saw another six unified districts formed out of the 10 voting on governance consolidation.

What’s encouraging about Act 46 is that school boards are thinking of new ways to provide better student outcomes. With district governance, a single board can look across the nine schools within the ACSU, for example, and see efficiencies gained by sharing resources and matching teachers to students in the most effective ways. Boards, quite simply, have more options to achieve improved outcomes.

This will likely be a short-term benefit, however. That is, once a level of cost-efficiency is gained it is unlikely those same gains can be expected the following year; and once the maximum efficiency is reached within these new parameters, taxpayers can expect to see annual expenses mirror the inflationary costs tied to education. But for the next few years, taxpayers whose districts have pursued school unification can expect to see modest efficiencies combined with stable tax rates. ************ Interestingly, Gov. Phil Scott voted against the school budget in his hometown of Berlin, suggesting that increases there had topped more than 5 percent. Scott had encouraged voters throughout the state to “do the math” when considering their school budgets. The perfect retort, however, was from a Berlin school board member who said he hoped the governor would be attending their next school board meeting to help them decide which budget items to cut. That’s where the hard work begins and where political theory runs into the real budget math.

The governor should embrace the challenge. He did, after all, make a political career as lieutenant governor of working in various businesses around the state to, as he said, spend a day walking in their shoes. School board members would be gratified to know he has spent a day in their shoes as well, particularly when asked to cut the budget while also improving student performance. We’re sure the governor would find that it’s easier to preach tough budget practices from his executive offices, than it is in the school board meeting room.

Angelo S. Lynn

A ‘heartless, reckless’ plan?

Initial reports of the GOP’s replacement of President Obama’s Affordable Care Act has ranged from the Washington Post’s characterization of it being “heartless and reckless,” to Republican conservatives vilifying it for being fiscally irresponsible, to Trump labeling it as ‘unbelievably fantastic, so much better than the ruinous Obamacare,’ or something so similarly outrageous that no one takes him seriously.

Putting the partisan rhetoric aside, American taxpayers will now have the benefit of comparing the two plans. Assuming there is some familiarity with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), here’s the basic framework of the GOP proposal: • The GOP bill would repeal many of the taxes imposed on the very-wealthy, on health-related insurance companies, and on pharmaceutical and medical device companies imposed by the ACA. Specifically, the GOP plan gives a $600 billion tax cut that largely benefits the top 1 percent — but does not have a plan to replace that funding. The GOP, after seven years of working on their health care plan, says they are still “discussing details” about how to pay for it.

• The GOP plan would continue the Medicaid expansion under the ACA for the next three years (after the 2020 election), before cutting the program by capping its per-person cost, instead of committing resources to meet the need as it does now. The federal cuts to Medicaid will pressure states to either cut services or raise state taxes to cover the medical cost of those people most in need. That’s another federal cost shift to the states, courtesy of the GOP plan.

• The proposal will also reduce the subsidies for poor people to buy coverage on the individual insurance market, creating what some have called a “death spiral” that could render the individual marketplace unworkable.

In comparing the two plans, what Americans will learn is that Obamacare initiated significant progress in the nation’s health care system, including covering youth up to 26 under their parent’s plan; preventing insurance companies from discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions; and not allowing insurance companies to charge older people more than three times as much as younger ones. (The GOP bill keeps the first two provisions, but allows insurance companies to charge older people up to five times more than younger people, putting more of the health care burden on the very sector that most supported Trump — older, white men and women.) What they’ll also learn is that the ACA was based on a simple Robin Hood principle of taxing the wealthy to subsidize health insurance for the poor and the sick. It did that by expanding Medicaid for households making up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level: $16,643 for an individual, or $33,948 for a family of four for the states that chose to do so; and by making the individual insurance markets work for people regardless of their age or health. Millions more Americans now have health care insurance.

To do this, it also forced some measures on the pubic that conservatives disliked, for instance, making people pay a penalty if they don’t buy health insurance. (They did this to prevent people from driving up premiums for everyone by waiting until they’re sick to get covered.) And it imposed modest taxes on the top 1 percent to help pay for the increased coverage.

We understand that Republicans don’t like entitlements and don’t like the taxes needed to fund them, but the GOP plan will run into plenty of opposition, as well. Conservatives already don’t like the GOP plan because it codifies tax-credit subsidies as a new entitlement; Republican governors won’t like it because it cuts Medicaid and they’ll be faced with raised state taxes; and Senate Republicans are wary of any plan that would make 6 to 10 million people lose their health insurance, as the GOP plan would do. And for GOP leaders, it’s hard to deny that the Affordable Care Act has improved the lot of millions of Americans, has slowed the growth of health care increases in the states that embraced it, and puts the nation on track to move to a wellness-based system, rather than remain with the nation’s costly fee-for-service system that is no longer viable.

But give the GOP credit for finally proposing a plan rather than just ranting against the ACA. Now, the debate can begin anew with the clarity provided by comparison.

Angelo Lynn

ADDISON COUNTY

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Students acted shamefully

Perhaps the pampered and privileged Middlebury College students who recently protested against an invited campus speaker need a lesson in Civics with particular emphasis on the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution!

I served in the military for 22 years to defend the rights of both the speaker and those who disagree with his message. While I don’t agree with the speaker’s world view, I am very troubled by the lack of civility displayed by the students opposing it.

Should I hold their parents responsible for a failure to instill more tolerance for opposing views; or Middlebury College accountable for tolerating their behavior? I’m tempted to say: “In my day...” but that would just date me, wouldn’t it!

Ralph Shepard Ferrisburgh

Nordic trails well maintained

Fanning fans

MOUNT ABRAHAM UNION High School girls’ basketball fans show their support during Tuesday night’s playoff game against Randolph. For full coverage of the team’s win, see Page 1B. Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Shared experiences build unity “Would you take my picture?” asked the woman ahead of us as my friend and I entered the Cesar Chavez Park at the Berkeley marina. She wanted one with the city of San Francisco in the background and one with the San Francisco Bay. As my friend snapped the photo, she said to her family in Iran, “Come to America — I love my country!”

Having lived in Istanbul for half a year, I am more familiar with Turkish people. I didn’t have any explicit stereotypes of Turkish people before I met my son-in-law and his family. I learned about Turkish people from my experience of living there for six months.

Stereotypes are the belief that most members of a group have some characteristic. We are hearing a stream of negative stereotypes from the new president. Some are explicit — the kind that

By Johanna all of us believe and say. For instance, Nichols I might say that Turks are warm and welcoming. Some are implicit — a positive or negative belief that we are not conscious of — like, Turks must believe in sharia law because they are Muslim. (Turkey is a secular democracy.)

Try answering this riddle: A father and his son are in a car accident. The father dies at the scene and the son is rushed to the hospital. At the hospital, the surgeon looks at the boy and says, “I can’t operate on this boy, he is my son.” How can this be?

How did you answer the riddle? Did you wonder if the boy had two fathers — a father and a stepfather, or a birth father and adopted father, or a gay couple? Or, did you understand that the surgeon was the boy’s mother?

A Harvard study suggests that we might hold an implicit stereotype if we say we like female surgeons (explicit), and then we don’t associate surgeon with female (implicit).

Ways of Seeing

One might not say that men are better surgeons, but one might believe it unintentionally. That is an association that we learned to believe — an implicit stereotype. (If you are interested in your own associations, visit the website implicit.harvard.edu and take the association tests. You might be surprised with the results.)

I was listening to a TED talk on stereotypes by Paul Bloom who teaches psychology at Yale. He says that we all have experiences that fall into categories. We wouldn’t survive if we couldn’t make good guesses, but we also can be wrong. Even when we know a stereotype doesn’t apply, we’re influenced by it anyway.

He gives this example. In a study of candidates prior to the 2008 election — John McCain was thought of as more American than Barack Obama. When Sen. Obama was compared to British Prime Minister Tony Blair, some people thought of Blair as more American than Obama, even though they knew he was not American. They were responding to the color of skin. We have learned that race matters in the world we live in.

Right now, there is not enough research to say for sure that implicit stereotypes and attitudes can be reduced, let alone eliminated. However, we can find ways that increase the likelihood.

I learn much that I don’t know through people’s stories. If we sympathize with one individual in a story, our emotions can expand to a group. Getting to know my son-in-law and his family helps me to gain an accurate, fair experience that might affect my attitude towards Turkish people.

Perhaps the Iranian woman at the marina is Muslim.

(See Ways of Seeing, Page 5A)

Counter poor thinking with reason Last week, protesters at Middlebury College shouted down Charles Murray and prevented him from speaking on his book “Coming Apart,” the plight of the white working class, and the election of Donald Trump. After Murray presented his comments in a video forum with Professor Allison Stanger, a mob, some of whose members were wearing masks to conceal their faces, assaulted Murray and Stanger as they were entering a car. Most of those who shouted down Murray, and perhaps a few of those who attacked Murray and Stanger, were Middlebury College students.

One day later, European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini was heckled by pro-Russia MPs as she addressed the Serbian parliament in Belgrade. Holding signs reading “Serbia Doesn’t Trust Brussels,” and shouting “Russia! We don’t need the EU!” these members tried to prevent Mogherini from speaking. She was By Eric L. Davis able to complete her remarks.

I am dismayed that members of the Middlebury College community treated a visiting speaker in ways comparable to parliamentarians in a fragile democracy backsliding to authoritarianism, rather than as members of a liberal arts college community committed to robust discussion of the widest range of ideas. Anger against Donald Trump and his misguided policies, or Murray’s views on racial issues, does not excuse what happened last week.

Preventing Murray from speaking also parallels some disturbing trends in American politics over the past year.

The enraged crowd chanting slogans against Murray seemed to me not unlike the enraged crowds at Trump’s

Politically Thinking

rallies shouting “Lock her up” about Hillary Clinton, or directing racist, sexist, anti-Semitic, or other hateful comments to members of the media. At least the Middlebury administrators on the platform last Thursday tried to defend freedom of speech for unpopular views.

There will need to be a thoughtful response to, and reflection about, the events of last Thursday, both on the Middlebury campus and in the academic community nationwide. At one level, in instances where those students who were most responsible for the shouting and intimidation in the hall can be identified, the filing of college disciplinary charges would be appropriate.

Even more important would be filing charges against any students who can be identified as being among those responsible for setting off fire alarms in the building in which the event was held, assaulting Murray and Stanger, and preventing the departure of the car in which they were riding. In these latter instances, if any students are found guilty after a hearing in which they will be entitled to procedural protections, the student-faculty judicial panel should consider imposing the full range of available sanctions, up to and including expulsion. A Middlebury police investigation might also result in criminal charges being filed against some individuals.

Beyond disciplinary charges, however, there needs to be a full discussion, on the Middlebury campus and in the academy at large, about the importance of maintaining colleges and universities as places where civil and reasoned discourse on controversial matters of public inter(See Davis, Page 5A)

After temperatures that smashed all records for several days, and then a downpour of rain Saturday afternoon and evening, I turned on the webcam for Rikert Nordic Center on Sunday morning thinking there was no way there could be any skiing left. But I could see the groomers out at work, so I went on over, and to my amazement Mike Hussey’s crew had managed to maintain five kilometers of remarkably good Nordic trails.

The community should be very grateful that the college invested in the Breadloaf operation, and that it found such hard-working and adept people to staff it; it was a remarkable gift to find some winter left in Addison County.

Bill McKibben Ripton

Freedom of press an essential right

I submitted this email to the White House on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017. I doubt he will take my advice. President Trump, The following is from the American Civil Liberties Union website regarding freedom of the press. “The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.” —U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. vs. United States (1971).

The freedom of the press, protected by the First Amendment, is critical to a democracy in which the government is accountable to the people. A free media functions as a watchdog that can investigate and report on government wrongdoing.

It is also a vibrant marketplace of ideas, a vehicle for ordinary citizens to express themselves and gain exposure to a wide range of information and opinions.

I am a Vermont elected official and although I can appreciate how your feelings are probably sensitive in regards to how the press is watching and reporting on you carefully, you of all people should never restrict access or information to the press simply because you feel like it. You are a public servant now and this is part of the job description you accepted. Put your suit on, open the door to everyone in the press and do your job.

The best advice I can give you: It’s important that you focus on the job and not your feelings. Best, Susan Shashok East Middlebury

Energy costs are driving economy Gov. Scott has said (Burlington Free Press, Jan. 20, p. 6A) that Vermont needs more immigrants for budgetary purposes: to pay taxes and produce income for storekeepers. This is good short-term thinking, typical for politicians, but poor long-term thinking and unsustainable over the next 100 years. The reasoning is simple: The population that an area can support depends on natural resources, especially cheap energy, and those resources are decreasing.

The human situation is like a herd of cows in a pasture, where the amount of grass determines the number of cows that the pasture can support. This number is called the “carrying capacity” of that pasture.

Planet earth can support a maximum (See Van Vleck letter, Page 7A)

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 5A

Who’s afraid of Steve Bannon?

In a recent Op-Ed to The New were implemented, it would destroy York Times, Christopher Caldwell, democracy in America.

In his op-ed, Caldwell seems to who regularly writes for the conservative Weekly Standard, chides believe that being an intellectual critics of Stephen Bannon, Presi- makes one respectable. He is misdent Trump’s chief political strat- taken. In 1933, the Nazi Party had egist, for calling him an extremist, its intellectuals. Two of them remain even today major anti-Semite, racist, figures in their fields. In misogynist and oth1927, Martin Heideger unsavory things. ger, a philosopher, pubCaldwell claims that lished Being and Time Bannon is none of as a prelude to metathese. Instead, he arphysics. Five years gues, Bannon is an earlier, Carl Schmitt, a intellectual, who is noted jurist and philoswell read, highly inopher of law, published telligent, and has clear Political Theology. ideas of his goals.

These soon to be I won’t dispute this, Nazi intellectuals (both and in any case calling joined the Nazi Party in Bannon names is no 1933) described their substitute for taking intellectual programs him seriously, which in much the same way. it would be unwise This week’s writer Heidegger wanted to not to do — because destroy or deconstruct some of his ideas are is Victor Nuovo, the Charles A. all previous metaphystruly dangerous. ical systems as a preBannon’s ideas of Dana Professor of lude to presenting his economic and cul- Philosophy Emerown; Schmitt, wanted tural nationalism, itus at Middlebury to destroy the bureauif made into policy, College and a senior cratic or administrative would cause financial research fellow at state, the rule of law, ruin and violate our Harris Manchester and what he labelled fundamental rights of College, Oxford, “liberal constitutionalfreedom of expres- England. ism.” sion and religion. His Schmitt’s program should thoughts about religion are also most disturbing, and they proceed sound familiar, for Bannon uses just these words to describe the from a profound ignorance.

Judaism, Christianity and Is- goal that he has set for the Trump lam are successive moments in the administration: “the deconstruchistorical development of a single tion of the administrative state.” tradition, the Abrahamic tradition. I have no doubt that he has read While it is true that the God of Abra- Schmitt’s book.

How did Schmitt plan to accomham, Isaac, and Jacob — who is the same God worshipped by Jews, plish the deconstruction of the adChristians and Muslims — is often ministrative state? He proposed that depicted in their scriptures as cruel it be done by a new sort of leader and intolerant, a tyrannical and jeal- with power comparable to the dious God, these traditions have, over vine. He entitled his book, Political their long histories, modified and Theology, because he believed that softened this harshness and sup- political ideas are merely secularplemented it with admirable senti- ized versions of theological notions. ments of compassion and humanity. He argued that a successful politiIslamophobia, in short, is not only cal leader must be one whose sovhateful, it is also uninformed and ereign power is like God’s, which he supposed is analogous to the stupid.

But there is another idea that power to perform miracles. Now Bannon has advocated, which I con- miracles are events that violate the sider most dangerous of all, for, if it laws of nature. They demonstrate

Community

Forum

God’s arbitrary power. In all divine actions, the deity acts freely and arbitrarily, whether creating worlds, promulgating laws, showing mercy or wrath, saving or reprobating. The only justification for what God does is that he or she is God. Schmitt does not suppose that a head of state should have divine power, but a secular version of it.

He defines it in the following rather cryptic statement: “Sovereign is he who decides on the exception.”

What he means is this: A ruler’s sovereign power is perfectly exemplified in unprecedented circumstances, in states of emergency, which require spontaneous and decisive action. It is the sovereign’s unlimited authority to do so. But Schmitt adds, it is also the sovereign’s right to decide when such action is needed; the sovereign is free to regard any and all events as exceptional; the sovereign free to declare states of emergency at will.

This sort of sovereignty requires no law and has no need for a bureaucracy and its rules of procedure and no precedents. By the same arbitrary power, the sovereign decides who are its friends, and who, its enemies; what is political and what isn’t; and perhaps also the power to replace facts with alternative facts — a practice known as propaganda. The sort of authority that Schmitt envisages is characteristic of a dictator and the political order that it establishes is totalitarian.

Now, in the light of this very dangerous idea, it is not hard to imagine how the American presidency might be transformed into a dictatorship. By attacking the free press, branding them as enemies of the state and producers of fake news and being reckless in its disregard for what is true or false, and

by Trump promoting the myth of danger at our gates, citing a need to build walls, inciting culture wars, and raising the pitch of populist rhetoric to evoke a sense of crisis and to rally the faithful — all of these would lead up to the declaration of a permanent state of emergency. If these are Bannon’s ideas, then there is reason to fear him.

Davis (Continued from Page 4A) est can flourish. We obviously live in a society that is very polarized around many politically related topics, and last year’s election and its aftermath have only intensified this polarization.

In March of 1801, Thomas Jefferson delivered his first inaugural address following an election that

was even more fraught than the one just past. Speaking to the assembled members of Congress and others, Jefferson said, “We are all Republicans, we are all Federalists. If there be any among us who would wish to dissolve this Union or to change its republican form, let them stand undisturbed as monuments of the safety

with which error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.” In a highly-polarized environment, reason combatting error of opinion continues to be a principle of the highest importance.

Eric L. Davis is professor emeritus of political science at Middlebury College.

Ways of Seeing (Continued from Page 4A) While there is a subset of Muslims who create legitimate fear, we should resist internalizing what has been impressed upon us — that all Muslims are terrorists or that they want to impose sharia law.

I can take advantage of whatever diversity our community offers to learn about others. As a volunteer when the Mexican consulate comes to Middlebury, I meet farm workers. Even if I sometimes feel uncomfortable, that’s okay. Talking and listening reduce

fear. I learn. That can reduce a stereotype and change my attitude.

I think shared experiences can reduce negative stereotypes and increase understanding. Before ending my visit to Berkeley, I walked with my friend in Muir Woods to see the Redwood trees. Visitors come from around the globe — a million a year.

I was grateful to appreciate the majestic trees with people speaking several languages. I felt a connection through a shared experience.

We are hearing all around us that we

need to communicate with others, to listen and to care about others — others beyond our own kinship, others in the wider community. I trust that we have a capacity to do this, and we can transform our stereotypes.

College student speaks out

Hate speech deserves no place in discourse

Editor’s note: In light of the protests at Middlebury College last Thursday, the Addison Independent sought commentary from a student who supported Charles Murray’s appearance at the college and a student who protested the event. This week we feature the thoughts of one Middlebury senior and hope to run an opposing viewpoint next week.

By ADRIANA ORTIZ-BURNHAM our peers, faculty, administration, and now the media that The voice that tells women, people of color, differently we are legitimate members of our intellectual and global abled, low income, trans, and queer people that we should communities. Again we are reduced to creating a space for ask for less, need less, deserve less, that we are less — this ourselves instead of bettering one that should already exist. is a voice that no longer needs a microphone.

We have been called a “rioting mob.” Our campus has That voice has been an omnipotent presence in our lives been referred to as “the front.” President Laurie Patton since before we were conscious that we could hear it. Those has apologized for us and promised “an independent of us involved in the protests at Middlebury College on investigation” to determine “a course of action for each March 2 earned our place at Middlebury in spite of that individual understood to be involved in some way in voice, by actively fighting against that voice. the events of last Thursday.” Matthew Dickinson, a This is not an issue of free speech. The First Amendment tenured professor of political science, posted a tweet makes no promises on the behalf of college condemning our actions with the hashtag students or private institutions. It does not “NotMyMiddlebury.”

We know we guarantee a respectful audience.

The actions of those who were violent were I would add that hate speech is not free earned our reprehensible. There were, however, hunspeech. Speech that discourages our peers place here and dreds of students who took part in the nonvifrom considering us equals, that informs us of we know we olent protesting on Thursday. Very few were our inferior status, that fundamentally negates involved in that despicable aggression. And should belong. our humanity — that deserves no place at our yet, leaders in our administration and faculty That is why we college or in our intellectual discourse. have essentially disowned all of the protestors Charles Murray has never been peer-re- protested. That … Disowned those of us who already needed viewed; he has been denounced by the South- is why we will to defend our place at Middlebury and in the ern Poverty Law Center as a white nationalist; continue to fight. world. his academic methods have been debunked The college is simultaneously refusing to — frequently — since before the students claim us and hiding behind empty assurances protesting him even knew we wanted to be scholars. that we earned our place here and that we belong. We know So, not only does he peddle a poisonous rhetoric of hate we earned our place here and we know we should belong. that fosters a climate that excuses civil rights violations, he That is why we protested. That is why we will continue to is also unqualified to lecture at our institution. fight.

This is not a matter of a differing opinion. Charles MurThe college is happy to claim us when we improve its diray actively contributes to discourses that encourage vari- versity statistics and when our GPAs, athletic skills, and creous kinds of violence against disadvantaged and minority ative talents attract more donations and boost our national communities. This violence has been inflicted upon our rankings. But now, when we rise against dangerous hatred bodies and minds for centuries. We are familiar with it. We disguised as intellectual discourse and backed by subpar do not need to make more room for it in our minds, in our academics, we remain unclaimed and unsupported by the days, or in our educational institutions. institution.

We should be done fighting for our right to be here; we Silencing a man who has dedicated his life, his intellect, should be done convincing people that we are intelligent and his resources to denying our humanity is not an act that and capable and human. But that battle is not over and so infringes upon free speech; it is an act of self-defense. Our here we are, fighting it. fight to be included in and represented by our college should In the time that we could be spending doing homework, be one that is supported by our faculty and administration. or searching for jobs, or applying for fellowships, or volun- We have never been silent, but perhaps now we will be teering, or with our loved ones, we are instead convincing heard.

Letters to the Editor Current minimum wage serves as a ticket to poverty At our Ripton Town Meeting last evening, Rep. Peter Conlon did us the service of visiting to bring us up to date on legislative matters. Thank you, Peter. It was much appreciated.

Peter mentioned that the effort to raise the minimum wage in Vermont to $15 per hour has been placed on the back burner for now in order to study the effects of that increase. I believe he meant to examine the effects on business and the Vermont economic climate.

I told him that the best way to study the effects of the current minimum wage would be for each legislator to spend a year trying to support his/her family by working minimum wage jobs. I am concerned about this failure of the Legislature to act on raising the minimum wage. Peter conceded that the current minimum wage does not

represent a livable income. I think it is clear that the current minimum wage is a poverty wage.

Poverty is co-related to most of our ongoing social and legal problems: criminal activity and imprisonment, school failure, alcoholism, mental and physical limitations, illegal drug dealing and drug use, malnutrition, and domestic violence. Poverty and poor health are inseparably linked. Poverty is not only a perennial problem but a generational curse.

To me, the worst aspect of poverty is the devastating effect it has on children, which I personally witnessed in my 34 years as a public educator. As I have expressed before, the Democratic Party is going to lose its base of support by neglecting to pass legislation that is beneficial to working people.

Consider that we now live in a society that finds it possible to award multi-million-dollar bonuses to the corporate executives who bring our economy to the brink of catastrophe (AIG) and grants outrageous severance payouts to bankers who commit bank fraud (Wells Fargo), while at the same time sacrificing 20 percent of the next generation of children to poverty for the sake of corporate and business profits.

The Democratic Party, if it seriously wishes to remain viable, cannot continue to represent and support the interests of the financial and business sector over the interests of working families and children. In Vermont, most especially, we do not need two Republican Parties.

Millard M. Cox Ripton

Emphasis should be on regenerative agriculture I read with interest John Flowers’ article on Sen. Chris Bray’s legislative initiative S.51 “Consolidated Clean Energy Planning and Economic Opportunity Act.”

This all goes back to the Vermont legislature’s stated desire to move away from fossil fuel dependence in order to address global warming, the rationale being that a move to

renewable energy would somehow mitigate catastrophic climate change. The problem is none of the favored technological fixes do that.

(See Vanacore letter, Page 7A)

Letters to the Editor can be found on Pages 4A, 5A, 7A and 11A.

MIDDLEBURY LIONS CLUB CASH CALENDAR WINNERS

January 2017

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February 2017

Amy Smith, Joseph & Krista Desabrais, Sherry Ouellette, Jim Gvdelis,Shelly Godard, Judy Severy, Kathy Sullivan (Autumn Gold), Dawn & Todd Reed, Middlebury Eye Associates, Tom Brennan, Rick Canfield, Adam Huestis, Ralph C. Miller, Donald Mason, Kathy Cannon, Steve White, Heather & Dave Davio,Gary Starr, Bob Grim, Clara Palmer,Jerry Atkins, Derrick Cram, Marc Manley, Normand Messier, Deb & Dick Haverlick Mark McDonough, Haylee Kulig, Kirsten Hendy

Fresh spring things are coming soon; how about freshening up your estate plan?

PAGE 6A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

ADDISON COUNTY

Obituaries

John Wesley, 91, Middlebury

Thomas Bullock, 84, formerly of Middlebury REEDSBURG, Wis. — Thomas Breen Bullock passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wis., on Friday, March 3, 2017, at the age of 84.

Tom is survived by his wife, Nancy (Becher) of Reedsburg, Wis.; stepsister, Carol Comes of Middlebury, Vt.; children, Mike (Adriane) Bullock of Middleton, Wis., Amy (Mark) Stormberg of Cameron, Wis., Dan (Kathy) Bullock of Reedsburg, Wis., and Josh (Jenny) Bullock of Mattoon, Ill.; grandchildren, Michael (fiancée Jenna) Stormberg, Robbie (Kayla) Bullock, Elizabeth (Dan) Hagans, Shane, Rebecca Stormberg, Tommy Stormberg, Stephanie (Joe) Hasan, Margaret Stormberg, Maria (Alex) Penn, Grace Stormberg, Melanie Bullock, JJ Bullock, Danielle Bullock, Joe Bullock and Noah Bullock; great-grandchildren, Oliver Hagans, Zooey Hagans, Zander Penn and Eva Stormberg. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Margaret Bullock; stepmother Francis; brothers Robert, James, Francis, Richard, Kenneth and John; sisters, Elizabeth, Anna, Mary, Patricia and Kathleen; stepbrothers, Richard and William; stepsister Ruth; and a daughter that died shortly after birth.

Tom was born October 12, 1932, in Middlebury, Vt., to Frank and Margaret (Smith) Bullock. After his mother’s death in 1942 his family was faced with many challenges and he took the initiative to find farm work in trade for room and board. Eventually he rejoined his dad at home and graduated from high school in 1950, after which he enlisted and served in the U.S. Air Force for four years, serving primarily in Germany and France.

He attended and graduated from

THOMAS BULLOCK the University of Wisconsin, Madison, in 1959 with a degree in electrical engineering and married Nancy, his wife of 57 years, shortly thereafter. They relocated to Philadelphia and he started his career at RCA. He earned advanced degrees while also becoming an Industrial controls expert over the years and finished his corporate career as VP and Product Manager of the PiC Division of Giddings & Lewis in Fond Du Lac, Wis., where he and Nancy lived for 51 years and raised their four children. After his corporate retirement, he operated a consulting business for many years and served on the board of directors for several companies.

He and Nancy very much enjoyed attending the many sporting, music

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and other activities that their grandchildren participated in. He also enjoyed golf and teaching the game to his grandchildren. Another of his favorite activities was being in the woods, cutting down trees, chopping wood and burning.

He was an active and dedicated member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Baraboo and served in the Knights of Columbus, volunteering for many events. Tom valued family above everything and he illustrated that every day of his life. He was a man of great positivity, wisdom, love, integrity and fairness in everything that he did and has been the best role model that his large family, that he loved so much, could have ever hoped for. He was greatly loved and will be missed by so many. As a gift to his family, he has written and published a book about his life and that of his birth family.

A visitation is scheduled for Friday, March 10, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Redlin Funeral Home, 401 Madison Ave, Baraboo, Wis. The Knights of Columbus will pray the rosary at 6 p.m. at the funeral home on Friday. A funeral service will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 300 2nd St. in Baraboo, Wis., on Saturday, March 11, with a visitation from 10 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. followed by the service at 11 a.m. Military rites will be conducted at church following the mass. A private Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to SSM Health St. Clare Foundation or Baraboo Knights of Columbus Council 746. Condolences can be made to dbullockwi@ gmail.com. The family would like to thank St. Mary’s Hospital staff for their thoughtful and compassionate care of our beloved Papa.◊

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MIDDLEBURY — Life is real and life is earnest, and the grave is not its goal/ Dust thou art, to dust returneth, was not spoken of the soul.

John Willard Wesley, “JDub,” 91, passed away Saturday March 4, 2017 at Helen Porter Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center with Margaret Putnam Wesley, his wife and sweetheart of more than 70 years, at his side.

He was born Aug. 17, 1925 in St. Johnsbury, Vt., the son of Dr. John and Emma (Frost) Wesley. His memories of his boyhood days, particularly escapades on “the Knob” with his friend Ned, and summer trips to York Beach, Maine with his Aunt Grace and Uncle Jones, remained vivid throughout his life, the subject of endless lovingly recounted stories. Each of his grandchildren learned to recite “Old Widow Mulligan” from Grandpa John, just as he learned it from Aunt Grace; “…and only the bones are left for Jones!”

John was one of the last living members of the class of 1942 at St. Johnsbury Academy, continuing to maintain his ties to classmates at regular luncheons until he could no longer drive.

He enlisted after high school in the United States Navy Airs Corps, almost completing pilot’s training when World War II ended. He later joined the Vermont National Guard, becoming captain of Middlebury’s A Battery, an anti-aircraft artillery unit, where he forged lasting friendships with the men with whom he served, and their families.

John graduated from the University of Vermont in 1949. After meeting her in chemistry class, John married Margaret Putnam of Bethel on Dec. 27, 1947. The honeymoon never ended, despite a storied disastrous ski trip to Quebec at its beginning.

John began teaching at Black River Academy in Ludlow, where he was also enlisted as a ski coach. In 1955, he took a position at Middlebury Union High School where he taught algebra, chemistry, physics and computer science until the end of his career. After summer training with the National Guard ended, he obtained a fellowship at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, Obituary Guidelines: The Addison Independent does not charge to print a 100-word Notice of Passing. Families may opt for unedited Paid Obituaries, which are designated with “◊” at the end.

Guidelines are published on our web site: www.addisonindependent.com/obits.

JOHN WILLARD WESLEY N.Y. as a graduate research assistant studying molecular spectroscopy. He was awarded a Masters of Science in 1961.

He had a passion for teaching, although always insisting “never suffer under the illusion that you can teach anyone anything...you can only present them with the opportunity to learn.”

Many of his students, including his own children, proclaimed him “the best teacher they ever had.” For many years, he also enjoyed coaching skiing, and his teams regularly placed high in the interscholastic standings, winning the state title twice.

John was a member of the United Methodist Church and sang in the church choir with Margaret for many years. Like his namesake, the original founder of Methodism, John was never hesitant to proclaim his faith.

Following his love of the outdoors, John hiked the Long Trail from end-to-end, completing every section at least twice. Family activities revolved around camping, hiking and canoeing. Inspired by his beloved daughter, Barbara, John for years rode a motorcycle, traveling to many Vermont towns as a member of the 251 Club. Although he and Margaret traveled by camper across the country several times, and made one memorable trip to Alaska with their

dear friends George and Margaret Klohck. John avoided airplanes after his own flying days had ended. He was fond of remarking, “you know, there are places in Vermont I haven’t seen yet.”

John and Margaret loved to dance.

They were longtime members of Green Mountain Squares, and both became proficient dancers and callers. After John taught himself to pick a guitar, a skill he passed on to two of his sons, Wesley family gatherings were renowned for music — a hootenanny had to be happening.

John was predeceased by his parents, a daughter Barbara L. Wesley who died July 1, 1975, a brother Edward Frost Wesley who died in 1923, and a sister Marian Danforth Vanderheyden who died in 2008.

He is survived by his wife Margaret of Middlebury; his sister-inlaw Loraine Putnam of Bethel; his daughter Patricia J. Wesley and husband Garry Schaedel of Burlington; his sons, John P. Wesley and wife Julie Peterson of Brattleboro, Vt.; Charles S. Wesley and wife Jennifer of Loudon, N.H.; Edward F. Wesley and wife Jean Stilley of Lincoln, Vt.; and Richard P. Wesley and his girlfriend Robin Higginbotham of West New York, N.J.; his nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, with another great grandchild due in June, and by numerous nieces and nephews.

Dancer, caller, teacher, preacher, picker, grinner, all time winner. He loved his family, children, grand and great. They loved him back and learned his lessons well. March forth from March 4th JDub. Thanks for showing us the way. We will carry on.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, March, 12 at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church of Middlebury. The Rev. Jill Robinson will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to Middlebury Methodist Church, 47 North Pleasant Street, Middlebury, VT 05753 or Addison County Home Health and Hospice at P.O. Box 754 Middlebury, VT 05753.

Online condolences at www.sandersonfuneralservice.com.◊

Linda Meacham, 55, Vergennes VERGENNES — Linda J. Meacham, 55, passed away Monday, March 6, 2017 at University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.

She was born Dec. 1, 1961 in Clinton, Mass., the daughter of Charles and Helen (Hubbard) Gizzonio.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren.

Linda is survived by three children: James Meacham, Jr. and wife Tonya, Tanya Lawrence, and Eric Meacham and wife Heather; nine grandchildren, Tyrell, Hunter, Ashton, Chanyiah, J.C., Kelsy, Savannah, Sally May and William; her father Charles (Carlo); step-mother Donna Beirholm; three sisters Diane, Jo and Elaine; two brothers Anthony and Michael; two step-sisters Tammy Lattrell and Kim Gizzonio; two step-brothers Carl and David Beirholm; several nieces and nephews; and a special friend Pam Cross.

She was predeceased by her mother Helen, a brother Charles Jr., stepfather Jack and her true love James Meacham, Sr. Linda was well known and would give all she had for anyone in need.

She is loved and greatly missed.

Visiting hours will be held Saturday, March 11, from 10 a.m.-noon at Brown-McClay Funeral Home

LINDA J. MEACHAM in Vergennes. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 11 at St. Peter’s Church in Vergennes. Burial will be at a later date at Lake View Cemetery in West Addison. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Addison County Home Health & Hospice, PO Box 754, Middlebury, VT 05753. To send online condolences to her family go to www. brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com.◊

Michael McGuire, 72, Shoreham SHOREHAM — Michael Joseph McGuire, Jr., 72, passed away Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, at his home in Shoreham.

Mr. McGuire was born in Queens, N.Y. on Nov. 24, 1944. He was the son of Michael and Lissette (Shenfield) McGuire, Sr. He grew up in Queens, where he received his early education. He worked in the Hell’s Kitchen section of Manhattan of New York City as a heavy truck mechanic.

He moved to Orwell in 1985 from Central Islip, Long Island, N.Y. He moved to Shoreham in 1988. He worked as a mechanic for J.P. Carrara & Sons and later for J. R.’s Rubbish Removal. He retired in 2008. He was an avid fisherman and loved deep sea fishing.

Surviving is his wife, Maureen (Dahms) McGuire of Shoreham, whom he married April 11, 1987 in Shoreham; a daughter, Helen Gosselin of Addison; three step-daughters: Maureen DiBrienza of Oswego, N.Y., Lisa Moore of Woodbridge, N.J. and Judeann Flaherty of Stratford, Conn.; two stepsons: Phillip Flaherty of Long Island, N.Y. and Jason Dotter of Shoreham; seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and sev-

MICHAEL MCGURIE eral cousins also survive him.

A gathering “In Celebration of his Life” will take place at a later date.

Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers may be made in his memory to Addison County Home Health & Hospice, P.O. Box 754, Middlebury, VT 05753.◊

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 7A

A sad day on Middlebury Campus Twenty years ago, I was a sophWhat they could do easily, howomore at Tehran Polytechnic. In ever, was to unleash the extensive addition to being one of the most regime propaganda machine and prestigious universities in Iran, direct the right-wing student orgaour campus was also known for nizations, which often had direct its lively political and intellectu- or indirect ties to the office of the al environment. The Supreme Leader, to do student organizations, whatever they could, on both the left and not to let his voice be the right, were highly heard. After a couple active — too active of disturbing incidents for my taste — but at other campuses, the progressive left which included chairs was particularly hot being thrown at him on campus. These while speaking, our were years of gradreformist student orual cultural and soganization decided to cial opening in Iran. invited him on camAlmost two decades pus to speak. after the revolution, I will never fora new generation of get that day. Campus young students with gates were shut tight a more liberal out- This week’s writer is with only students and look, and tired of the Ata Anzali, assistant faculty let in. There narrow and rigid rev- professor of religion were huge protests olutionary discourse, at Middlebury going on outside the were trying to assert College. gates, the participants themselves on the powere mostly members litical scene. of the paramilitary It was a captivating environment Basij force affiliated with the Revand I was immediately drawn into olutionary Guards joined by other it. I spent countless hours with my right-wing students. The situation friends reading, discussing and de- was tense and many of us were bating how the current state-spon- scared to death. Half an hour into sored reading of Islam needed re- the scheduled time, the power was form. Reform was imperative, the cut off to the auditorium and none left firmly believed, for a more plu- of the panelists showed up. ralistic, inclusive, free and just soAfter much waiting, the organizciety that they envisioned for Iran. ers announced that due to the proOne of the most important intel- tests outside, and the tacit collabolectuals at the time that inspired us ration of the administration and the was Abdol-Karim Soroush, whom campus police who eventually had I personally consider a mentor. He to answer to the Supreme Leader was one of the main ideologues of and his puppets, Soroush was not the Islamic Revolution who had a able to pass through the gates and gradual change of heart as he saw give his lecture in person. The orthe revolution eat its children one ganizers, however, managed to put by one, lending his powerful pen him on a phone speaker, amplified to the reformists. He wrote elo- through the mosque megaphones quent, yet very controversial books that are usually used for announcabout the idea of reform in Islam, ing the call for prayers. Unlike and because of those books and Middlebury students at yesterday’s his popularity among reformists, event, the opposing students were the religious establishment, and decent enough to let the others hear most notably the Supreme Leader his speech through the speakers.

Soroush continued to receive of Iran, considered him a dangerous threat to their legitimacy. They death threats until he felt it was were determined to suppress his best for his safety to leave Iran. voice but there was not a quick, le- Where did he take refuge? The United States of America. Why? gal way to silence him.

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Because he knew that his freedom to write and speak would be protected by values enshrined in the constitution of the United States.

Ten years after that incident, I faced a somehow similar decision: After finishing my PhD in the study of religion in America, I had to decide whether to go back to Iran and teach there or seek a teaching position in the U.S. It was a hard decision, but at the end of the day, it was about freedom of speech: I knew that if I wanted to teach about religion from a humanistic perspective in Iran I’d have to deal with a barrage of attacks that, in essence, accused me of “hate speech.”

They would say that I hated Islam/religion because I taught there was a human side to it, that I insulted Islamic sanctities because I demonstrated to my students how they were human constructs, that I was an atheist bent on destroying the faith of my students. I knew that I could freely teach, write and educate in the U.S. I knew no matter what, my speech would be protected both by the First Amendment in public space and by the tenure system in academia.

As I sat in McCullough Student Center on Thursday, unsuccessfully trying to watch the live stream of Charles Murray’s speech in the middle of student protests, fire alarms going on and off, and the live stream being cut off, I saw the frozen face of a man with whom I deeply and fundamentally disagreed. As events unfolded, however, I could think less and less about my disagreements with him and more and more about how much the student protestors — who could afford to ignore Middlebury College President Laurie Patton and Professor Allison Stanger’s open and strong invitation for civic engagement and rhetorical resilience — took the tremendous amount of freedom that they had for granted. A freedom that, even after the loss of thousands of precious lives in its pursuit, still looks like an elusive dream in many countries across the globe.

Vanacore letter (Continued from Page 5A) Neither a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions nor a political move to renewable energy meaningfully reduces the risk of catastrophic climate change unless those technologies and policies actually capture carbon. Providing permissive offsets to polluters such as Green Mountain Power and many so-called renewable big solar and big wind projects does little or nothing to reduce the

geotectonic conditions producing catastrophic climate change.

In fact the mirage of progress in this direction is a great disservice to those economic sectors, technologies and practices that materially do make a difference.

Sen. Bray is aware of at least some of this.

Testimony presented to the Senate Natural Resources and Energy Committee on S.43, a bill

sponsored by Sen. Bray promoting Regenerative Agriculture, gets to the heart of the matter; capturing and building carbon on land through best agricultural management practices in field and forest.

Without it, all the above is well meaning, perhaps well intended, but misses the point by a country mile.

Thomas Vanacore Bridport

Van Vleck letter (Continued from Page 4A) number of humans, but this number decreases as we run out of cheap oil. The number of people that Vermont can support also will decrease markedly as petrochemicals decrease. Solar, wind, hydro, geothermal and nuclear will pick up some of the slack, but the carrying capacity will decrease markedly from its present level.

Cows need grass and water, but human society needs jobs, water, food, soil, lumber, housing, schools, hospitals, etc., but mostly it needs energy, especially cheap energy. Oil is our cheap energy, and we depend on oil for most of our needs: Every article of clothing you wear has an oil component built into it, every article of food you eat has an oil component, every article you buy in Walmart or Home Depot has an oil component. We need oil, but it isn’t being synthesized anymore, so obviously we must get along without it within a relatively short time.

It is difficult for me to imagine life without oil. My life, with its luxuries, depends on cheap oil; I bought blueberries last week grown in Chile and flown here in the middle of winter. Losing cheap oil will decrease the ability of one farmer and his tractors to grow cheap food for a hundred families. Large farms will go; small farms will return.

Food production will suffer globally, and starvation will increase.

Friction over limited resources will increase. Unquestionably, these events will occur; the only question is when.

The U.S. has lots of oil relative to other nations, most of whom don’t have and cannot afford petrochemicals. Nevertheless, within 80 – 120 years the U.S., including

Vermont, will run out of oil. When that occurs, the nation, and its individual states, will not be able to support the population it supports today.

Whether cows or humans, every species has a carrying capacity.

Planet earth can support a maximum number of humans, but this number is much larger now than it will be when decreased oil or water become a limiting factor. The carrying capacity of Vermont also will decrease for the same reason.

When that occurs, the smaller our population, the better off we shall

be. (Google “India Population” for an example of uncontrolled population growth.)

In summary, Vermont has plenty of oil to support its current population, but that situation will not be sustainable when oil disappears.

To be fair to future Vermonters we should maintain a population that will be sustainable. That means decreasing population (by births and immigration) today to preserve a sustainable quality environment for our great grandchildren.

David Van Vleck Middlebury

Protest gives food for thought

The events around author have the freedom to shout down Charles Murray’s appearance on those they don’t like? the Middlebury College campus “By that logic, white supremacist have convulsed not just the campus gangs should be allowed to shout but the community. down people of color whenever As news reports and commentar- they try to speak. Is the principle ies have distributed word of the un- that a big crowd of people should ruly crowd that blocked get to shout down those Murray’s speech, the they don’t like? Obvievents have taken on ously, bigots can form national significance. a big crowd, too.”

There’s too much Denying radically to be said about these conservative speakers events — which inlike Murray the right cluded a physical attack to express their views upon Murray and colin public — especially lege personnel — to fit when they have been it all into one column. invited by a legitimate So I’ll offer just four student organization — points. is also politically mo• The actions of proronic. testers in completely I’m old enough to shutting down Murray’s remember when these speech ultimately have tactics were used no moral or ethical jusagainst leaders whose tification.

by Gregory Dennis views I supported as a • They’re also politiyoung activist. What cally stupid.

Murray faced here was • What happened on campus last the kind of mob mentality that deThursday tells us something im- nied a platform to civil rights leadportant about the state of our na- ers and anti-war activists in the tion, and… ’60s and ’70s.

• It’s not the whole story by a I’m thinking, too, of Amerilong shot. can-American thought leaders who I’m always encouraged to see have visited the Middlebury camcollege students speaking out on pus in recent years: Angela Davis, issues of the day. We need their who was vilified in the ’60s for perspectives, energy and youthful her left-wing politics; Democratic wisdom.

National Committee interim chair But it’s incredibly counterpro- Donna Brazile; and the wonderful ductive to shout down speakers Van Jones. with whom we disagree. It poisons Would it have been OK if oppothe public debate, silences dissent, nents of those speakers had massed and denies the majority a chance to to prevent them from speaking hear speakers with varying points here? of view.

Of course not.

Nobody has a corner on the truth.

At a time when moderate and libWe look to institutions like Mid- eral ideas are under virulent attack dlebury College to be guardians of from the Trump administration, justifiably lofty ideals such as free- it’s deeply unwise to legitimize the dom of speech. suppression of dissent.

John K. Wilson put it well in a Trump & Co. have shown little commentary that appears on the hesitation about trying to silence Academe Blog of the American their critics. We’ve recently seen Association of University Profes- the administration attack the press sors: as “the enemy of the people.”

“Shouting down speakers … is The crowd that drove Murray wrong,” Wilson wrote. “Plain and from the stage was motivated by simple. It’s wrong. Shouting down similar sentiments: that his views speakers is morally wrong, unprin- were so dangerous and so repugcipled, anti-intellectual and utterly nant, they shouldn’t even be spoindefensible.” ken.

I support dissent on campus, and When that’s the justification — in my college days at Middlebury and when the levers of the federal I was sometimes a very loud dis- government are being pulled by the senter. But I couldn’t then, and Right — well, it’s just power vs. can’t now, support the efforts of a power. crowd to deny a speaker the right In that dynamic, progressive to speak, however noxious his views will inevitably be the loser. views might be.

The Right is still pointing to the “What is the fundamental prin- burning of one car at Trump’s Inauciple behind the idea of shouting guration, plus a recent UC Berkeley down a speaker?” Wilson asked. incident that shut down a speaker, “Is the principle that people should as “evidence” of how dangerous

Between The Lines

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the anti-Trump forces are said to be. Regrettably, the same inaccurate claims are now being about the events on our local campus.

(In those incidents and last week in Middlebury, it should be noted, the physical violence appears to have been incited largely by anonymous outsiders in black.)

As to the state of our nation, it’s pretty clear that last week’s protest was driven by greater anxiety about the uncertain governance emanating from the White House.

We have a chaotic Trump administration that came to power after losing the popular vote — and has nonetheless moved against multiple American institutions as if it had a mandate to attack minorities, Muslims, environmentalists, elected officials and anybody else who disagrees with them.

I’m not blaming Trump’s team for last week’s incidents. The responsibility for that rests with the participants who shut down Murray and attacked him when he was leaving the scene.

I’m saying that the anxiety and anger expressed by the protestors didn’t occur in a vacuum. And that Trump has done much to stir the passions of Americans to a dangerous boiling point.

Now to the last consideration, that what happened last week isn’t the whole story.

Both as a student and now as a Middlebury alumnus, I’ve found the college to be a haven for intellectual stimulation and free speech.

That’s not going to change based on one ugly incident.

Moreover, I’m encouraged by the deep and thoughtful discussion now occurring within the college and wider community. College President Laurie Patton has done an admirable job shaping this debate, both at the Murray event and in subsequent statements.

But there’s work to be done. As Patton put it in a public email, “We must find a path to establishing a climate of open discourse as a core Middlebury value, while also recognizing critical matters of race, inclusion, class, sexual and gender identity, and the other factors that too often divide us.”

I hope we will all learn from what happened.

I’ll even bet that most of the students who barred Murray from speaking will one day see what a mistake that was.

Gregory Dennis’s column appears here every other Thursday and is archived on his blog at www. gregdennis.wordpress.com. Email: gregdennisvt@yahoo.com, Twitter: @greengregdennis.

PAGE 8A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

2017 ADDISON COUNTY

RABIES CLINICS

A number of rabies vaccination clinics are being sponsored by the Addison County veterinarians during the month of March. Each clinic is open to all residents of all towns. Dogs should be leashed and cats in carriers for the safety of all. To avoid confusion and delay, please bring a copy of the pet’s most recent Rabies Certificate. Payment by CASH only, please no checks.

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PLACES, DATES & TIMES STARKSBORO • Starksboro Town Clerk’s Office . Sat., March 11 . 9AM – 11AM . $15 GOSHEN • Goshen Town Clerk’s Office . Sat., March 11 . 10AM – Noon . $15 NEW HAVEN • New Haven Clerk’s Office . Sat., March 11 . 1PM – 3PM . $15 VERGENNES • Vergennes Animal Hospital . Mon., Mar 13 . 5:30PM – 7:30PM . $15 LEICESTER • Leicester Town Office . Tues., March 14 . 5PM – 6:15PM . $15 SALISBURY• Salisbury Town Office . Tues., March 14 . 6:30PM – 7:30PM . $15 BRISTOL • Bristol Animal Hospital . Weds., March 15 . 5:30PM – 6:30PM . $15 LINCOLN • Lincoln Town Offices . Sat., March 18 . 9AM – 10AM . $15 MONKTON • Monkton Town Fire Department . Tues., March 21 . 6PM – 7PM . $15 WHITING • Whiting Firehouse . Thurs., March 23 . 5:30PM – 6:30PM . $15 ORWELL • Orwell Firehouse . Fri., March 24 . 5PM – 7PM . $15 BRIDPORT • Bridport Firehouse . Sat., March 25 . 10AM – Noon . $15 BRANDON • Brandon Fire House . Sat., March 25 . 1PM – 3PM . $15 SHOREHAM • Shoreham Firehouse . Tues., March 28 . 6PM – 8 PM . $15

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I’ll take it

FESTIVALGOERS LINED UP for some of Rosie’s chili during the 2016 Vermont Chili Festival in downtown Middlebury. The ninth annual Vermont Chili Festival will take place Saturday, March 11, from 1-4 p.m. with over 50 chilies to sample, live music and entertainment. Tickets $8 at gate or $6 in advance or online at vtchilifest.com. For more information contact Karen@bettermiddleburypartnership.org or call 802-345-1366.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

and more. Bring your family and friends. Adults $8.50; seniors over 60 $7.50; kids ages 6-12 $6; children under age 6 free. Immediate families of five ACHHH foot clinic in Middlebury. or more $28. For more information call the rectory Green Mountain Club Walk along Dead Thursday, March 9, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., The at 877-2367.

Creek, Addison. Saturday, March 11. Walk Commons. Addison County Home Health & 2017 Bread Loaf Citizens Race in Ripton. Sunday, along the Dead Creek area on Route 17 in Addison.

Hospice will sponsor a foot clinic. Bring a basin and March 12, 11 a.m. (classic race) and 11:10 a.m.

About 2 miles. Contact Claire Rivers, at 802-877towel. Free. (skate race). The umpteenth annual 5K Nordic 2263 or claireonbowman@comcast.net. For other Classes at EastView in Middlebury. Thursday, Citizens Race will be held at Rikert Nordic Center. events and activities visit www.gmcbreadloaf.org.

March 9, 3-4:30 p.m., EastView at Middlebury.

Race day registration from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. or preEastView resident Nick Clifford will facilitate a class Monthly Wildlife Walk in Middlebury. Saturday, register at www.rikertnordic.com. Registration fee March 11, 8 a.m., Otter View Park at the intersecon “Prospects for Afghanistan and Pakistan,” the is $5 for kids ages 7-12; $10 for ages 13+ or $25 tion of Weybridge Street and Pulp Mill Bridge. Otter seventh in an eight-week series. for a family. Lollipop race for kids ages 3-6 begins Creek Audubon and the Middlebury Area Land Trust Cities as Sustainability Leaders discussion in at 10:30 a.m. Wear a costume! Spandex is highly invite community members to help us survey birds Middlebury. Thursday, March 9, 4:30-5:45 p.m., recommended. Prizes will be given for the top finishand other wildlife at Otter View Park and the Hurd The Orchard, Franklin Env. Center 103, Middlebury ers and best costumes. Fun, music and BBQ lunch Grassland. Birders of all ages and abilities welcome.

College. After an introduction by Bill McKibben, included. All proceeds will be donated to nonprofit For more information, call 388-1007 or 388-6019.

Schumann Distinguished Scholar, student Malik organizations with a focus on outdoor winter recreGomez ‘18 will facilitate this ation for all ages. For more information contact conversation with Jennifer Green, Rikert Nordic Center at 443-2744.

Sustainability Coordinator for City Seussical the Musical in Middlebury. Sunday, of Burlington, Vt., Mike McGinn, March 12, 2 p.m., Middlebury Union High School. former mayor of Seattle, and Kevin The MUHS Class of 2017 presents Taylor, Senior Program Officer, VERGENNES MOVEMENT STUDIO ‑ Mindfulness the musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ Cities and Climate, World Wildlife classic stories. Over 60 seniors are Based Stress Reduction, a suite of meditative practices participating in the show, directed Fund. Special appearance by Mayor improving wellness, offered at 179 Main St., Vergennes. by Shannon Bohler. Tickets are William Peduto, City of Pittsburgh (via Skype).

Weekly beginning Tuesday, March 28th – May 16 at 6:00 p.m. $12 for adults and $8 for students/ CCV information session in All proceeds benefit the visit www.ronidonnenfeld.com, 802 793 5073. Registration seniors.

Middlebury. Thursday, March 9, 5-6 2017 Project Graduation. To reserve Deadline - March 25. p.m., CCV Middlebury, 10 Merchants tickets in advance, call 382-1192.

Row #223. Community College of Johnson Jazz in MIDDLEBURY STUDIO SCHOOL — Adult: Thurs AM Oils, Thurs Jenni Vermont will hold an information Middlebury. Sunday, March 12, 2 PM Drawing, Thurs PM Pastels, Chinese Mounting Workshop, p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek. session for everything you need to Mon PM Oils, Weds Midday On & Off the Wheel Clay Class, Delight in Jenni’s smooth voice know about taking classes at CCV. Quit Partners workshop in Sat AM Garden Planter Workshop. Children: Tues Clay hand and unique style as she performs Middlebury. Thursday, March 9, 6-7 renditions of American building and Weds Wheel. middleburystudioschool.org versatile p.m., Helen Porter Healthcare and Jazz Classics. Free and open to the Contact Barb 247-3702, ewaldewald@aol.com Rehab. Get the support you need public. Handicap accessible. RSVP to quit tobacco at this free workto Connie Leach at cleach@resishop. Enter through the front doors denceottercreek.com or 388-1220. and ask for the small conference room. Contact Introduction to robotics and programming with Free community dinner in Bristol. Sunday, March master maker and engineer Heath Hescock in Christine Serfozo at 802-388-8860 or cserfozo@ 12, 5-6:30 p.m., St. Ambrose Parish Hall. The menu Orwell. Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m.-noon, Orwell portermedical.org with questions or to pre-register. will be corned beef and cabbage, carrots, potatoes, Free Library. Learn how robotics are now an accesPre-registration is required. dessert and beverages. Come and enjoy a meal Our Pelvic Floor – Holding It All Together! presensible technology to any interested individual through with family, friends and neighbors. All are welcome. tation in Middlebury. Thursday, March 9, 6:30 open sourced hardware and software. Work with p.m., REV Fitness for Women, 175 Wilson Road.

Arduino boards and software to begin your journey Get the “Low-Down” from Judy Holmes, MS, PT, into this interactive world of digital devices and the of Middlebury Physical Therapy. Learn the anatphysical world. This workshop is great for older chilomy and function of the pelvic floor, and common dren and beginner adults.

Purim Carnival in Middlebury. Monday, concerns such as bladder and bowel incontinence Vermont Chili Festival in Middlebury. Saturday, March 13, 3:45-5 p.m., Havurah House, and pelvic pain. Discover treatment options and March 11, 1-4 p.m., downtown Middlebury. The 56 N. Pleasant St. Come enjoy a wide varibehavior modification techniques, AND, have your Better Middlebury Partnership will present the ninth ety of Purim themed booths: sporting games, cake questions answered. Free. Registration required: annual Vermont Chili Festival with over 50 chilies to walk, face painting, Go Fish, music and more. All www.revfitnessforwomen.com/contact-us.html or sample, live music and entertainment. Tickets $8 at ages welcome. RSVP to HHEdDirector@gmail.com Michele Butler at 989-0096. gate or $6 in advance or online at vtchilifest.com.

by March 10. $5 suggested donation.

Book reading in Middlebury. Thursday, March 9, For more information contact Karen@bettermiddle6:30 p.m., Vermont Book Shop. Vermont author Eve burypartnership.org or call 802-345-1366.

Schaub, who was celebrated for her book “Year of String Trio from the Lake Champlain Music Festival No Sugar” will talk about her new memoir “Year of in Middlebury. Saturday, March 11, 4 p.m., The No Clutter,” which has been described as a deeply Residence at Otter Creek. Enjoy young virtuosic Blood drive in Middlebury. Tuesday, inspiring and frequently hilarious examination of performers Roby Bollinger (violin), Wenhong Luo March 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., American why we keep stuff in the first place, and how to let (viola) and Andrea Casarrubios (cello) for a concert Legion, 49 Wilson Road. During Red Cross it all go. Book signing to follow. Free and open to of classics from the string trio literature. These 2016 Month in March, the American Red Cross will hold the public.

Festival Resident Ensemble musicians represent a blood drive to encourage eligible donors to give Cabin Fever Lecture Series in Middlebury. the next generation of leaders in the classical music blood.

Thursday, March 9, 7 p.m., Ilsley Public Library. world. Free and open to the public. Handicap accesPresentation in Middlebury. Tuesday, March 14, 2:30 Travis Hammill, Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, sible. RSVP to Connie Leach at cleach@residenp.m., Eastview at Middlebury, Community Room. speaks about protecting the iconic redrock lands ceottercreek.com or 388-1220.

Ray Hudson will discuss the book “Lost Villages of of southern Utah for recreation and preservation. Corned beef and cabbage supper in Vergennes. the Eastern Aleutians.”

Sponsored by Otter Creek Audubon. Free and open Saturday, March 11, 5-6:30 p.m., Vergennes United Technology 4 Tomorrow Workshop in Middlebury. to the public.

Methodist Church on Main Street. The menu will Tuesday, March 14, 3:30-5 p.m., The Residence Addison County Democratic Committee meeting in include corned beef, cabbage, boiled potatoes, at Otter Creek. Online shopping is convenient Middlebury. Thursday, March 9, 7 p.m., American carrots, onions, rolls, dessert and beverage served and can be fun, but requires extra vigilance. Join Legion. Note location change. Ruth Hardy from buffet style. Tickets $9 adults; $5 children. Take this workshop and look at a variety of online store Emerge Vermont will describe her program, and a out orders are available. Call 877-3150 for more options, how to make online purchases and how to resolution on marijuana legalization will be considinformation. ensure your safety while shopping online. Free and ered. All Democrats are encouraged to attend.

Seussical the Musical in Middlebury. Saturday, open to the public. Handicap accessible. RSVP to March 11, 7 p.m., Middlebury Union High School.

Connie Leach at cleach@residenceottercreek.com The MUHS Class of 2017 presents the musical or 388-1220. adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic stories. Over 60 Rabies clinic in Salisbury. Tuesday, March 14, 6:30seniors are participating in the show, directed by 7:30 p.m., Salisbury Town Office. The rabies clinic All you can eat fish fry in Bristol.

Shannon Bohler. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 is at the town office; dogs may be registered at this Friday, March 10, 5-7 p.m., St. Ambrose for students/seniors. All proceeds benefit the 2017 time. All dogs must be registered by April 1.

Catholic Church Parish Hall. The menu will Project Graduation. To reserve tickets in advance, Travels to the Four Corners; on the ancestral trail include fried or baked haddock, French fries, colecall 382-1192. of Pueblo Ruins in Orwell. Tuesday, March 14, 7 slaw, beverage and dessert. Adults $12.50; children Contradance in Bridport. Saturday, March 11, p.m., Orwell Free Library. Travelogue with retired age 9 and under $6; immediate family of five $37.

7-9:30 p.m., Bridport Community/Masons Hall. geography professor Joe Taparauskus. Taparauskus For more information call St. Ambrose Church at Contradance featuring Fern Bradley calling to live has traveled extensively throughout the south453-2488. music by Red Dog Riley. $5-10/person (sliding west U.S., soaking in the culture and history of the Taco dinner in Vergennes. Friday, March 10, 5:30scale). All are welcome. No experience or partner ancient peoples who roamed the region. During this 7:30 p.m., Champlain Valley Christian Reformed necessary. Questions? 462-3722. Hall is on the talk, he will share photos, stories and fascinating Church. The CVCS seventh- and eighth-grade class green in Bridport, just off 22A. geographic history of the four corners cultures. will hold a taco dinner with your choice of many DJ skate night in Middlebury. Saturday, March 11, “Poverty” film screening in Middlebury. Tuesday, toppings, including refried and black beans, milk, 8-10 p.m., Memorial Sports Center. DJ skate night March 14, 7 p.m., Dana Auditorium. The awardcoffee, lemonade, and brownie sundaes. Adults presented by friends of Middlebury hockey. All ages winning documentary film “Poverty, Inc.” will be (13+) $8; children $5; ages 3 and under free; family and abilities welcome. $5 adult; $3 student. Snack screened, followed by a panel discussion with faculty cap $35. All proceeds go toward a spring trip to bar will be open and rental skates available. Info: from Middlebury’s Global Health, Food Studies, and Washington, D.C. www.memorialsportscenter.org.

Privilege and Poverty programs, as well as UVM’s Seussical the Musical in Middlebury. Friday, Education department. Free and open to the public.

March 10, 7 p.m., Middlebury Union High School.

The MUHS Class of 2017 presents the musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic stories. Over 60 Parish breakfast featuring Dakin Farm seniors are participating in the show, directed by Ham in Vergennes. Sunday, March 12, Shannon Bohler. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 ANeSU early education developmen8-10 a.m., St. Peter’s Church Parish. Come for students/seniors. All proceeds benefit the 2017 tal screenings in Bristol. Wednesday, join us for a delicious breakfast of eggs, omelets Project Graduation. To reserve tickets in advance, March 15, 1-4:30 p.m., Bristol Elementary (to order), hot cakes, French toast, sausage, bacon call 382-1192.

School. The Early Education Program of ANeSU

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will hold its developmental screenings. Children will have the opportunity to play in an early childhood classroom using art materials, blocks, puzzles and imaginative play materials. Children 3 years old

by Sept. 1 or 4 years old not previously screened are invited to attend. To schedule an appointment call ANeSU Early Education Program at 453-3674.

Free.

“Assessing the Trump Presidency Two Months In” presentation in Middlebury. Wednesday, March 15, 4:30 p.m., EastView at Middlebury. Middlebury College Professor Matt Dickinson will present “Assessing the Trump Presidency Two Months In.” Free and open to the public.

Remembering and renewal group in Middlebury.

Wednesday, March 15, 5:30-7 p.m., Share stories and celebrate memories of those we have loved and lost. Pay tribute to the gratitude, grief and connection that remains alive in our minds and hearts.

Be inspired in this safe, supportive community.

8-week session. Call Hospice Volunteer Services at 388-4111 or email molson@hospice.org for more information.

Ladies Union crockpot dinner in New Haven.

Wednesday, March 15, 6 p.m., New Haven Congregational Church. Ladies Union crockpot dinner will feature hearty main dishes, beverages and dessert. $8. For more information call Carol at 453-5059.

Book club in Bridport. Wednesday, March 15, 7 p.m., Bridport Highway Department conference room, Crown Point Road and Short Street. The Bridport Book Club will discuss “The Heart is a Lonely Hunter,” by Carson McCullers. All interested readers welcome! Call 802-758-2858 for more information. April’s title is “David Copperfield,” by Charles Dickens.

PV revolution talk in Middlebury. Wednesday, March 15, 7-8:30 p.m., Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury College Professor of Physics Richard Wolfson will give a talk on the history of photovoltaic systems that convert sunlight energy directly into electricity.

Free and open to the public.

Mar

16

THURSDAY

“Community Hu” in Middlebury.

Thursday, March 16, 2-2:30 p.m., EastView at Middlebury, Community Room.

There will be a “Community Hu,” during which there will be 20 minutes of singing and 10 minutes for contemplation and reflection. This is a nondenominational spiritual gathering that will be open to the community.

Classes at EastView in Middlebury. Thursday, March 16, 3-4:30 p.m., EastView at Middlebury.

EastView resident Nick Clifford will facilitate a class on “Nuclear Security,” the last in an eight-week series.

A Walk in their Shoes: Dementia Simulation workshop in Middlebury. Thursday, March 16, 4:305:30 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek. Are you a caregiver for, or a loved one of a person living with dementia? This workshop will help you understand how it feels to manage the many challenges it presents, and Certified Dementia Practitioners will take you through an experience to better create a positive environment for those with dementia. In collaboration with Harvard Medical School and Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Free and open to the public.

Handicap accessible. RSVP to Connie Leach at cleach@residenceottercreek.com or 388-1220.

“Cloud Tectonics” in Middlebury. Thursday, March 16, 8 p.m., Hepburn Zoo, Middlebury College. Love alters the physics around you in some way: changing the speed of light and the shape of space and how you experience time. Jose Rivera’s play “Cloud Tectonics” is a magical realist version of boy meets girl, where the ordinary is overtaken by the celestial. In downtown Los Angeles 1994, Anibal de Luna meets Celestina del Sol, a mystical wanderer who lives infinitely in the now-she has been pregnant for two years and is looking for the man who made her that way. Tickets: $5. www.middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

Mar

17

FRIDAY

Fridays at the Museum: New Horizons in Chinese Gold in the Han Dynasty in Middlebury. Friday, March 17, 12:15 p.m., Mahaney Center for the Arts. Professor Sarah Laursen, Assistant Professor and Youngman Curator of Asian Art, examines the production of gold objects during the Han dynasty, when China increased its contact with other states and became integrated into trade networks like the Silk Road.

This illustrated lecture will explore the foreign styles, techniques, and forms that first appeared in the Han dynasty, as well as gold’s functions as a marker of elite status and official rank, a tool for diplomacy, and an international currency and commodity. Free. www.middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

Lenten Fish Fry in Vergennes. Friday, March 17, 5-7 p.m., St. Peter’s Parish Hall. Come join us for battered baked haddock, fries, macaroni and cheese, green beans, coleslaw, rolls, punch, milk and coffee. Adults $12, children under 12 $6.

Children under 6 are free. Immediate family (only) $35. Please bring a dessert to share. For more information call 877-2367.

“Cloud Tectonics” in Middlebury. Friday, March 17, 8 p.m., Hepburn Zoo, Middlebury College.

Love alters the physics around you in some way: changing the speed of light and the shape of space and how you experience time. Jose Rivera’s play “Cloud Tectonics” is a magical realist version of boy meets girl, where the ordinary is overtaken by the celestial. In downtown Los Angeles 1994, Anibal de Luna meets Celestina del Sol, a mystical wanderer who lives infinitely in the now-she has been pregnant for two years and is looking for the man who made her that way. Tickets: $5. www.middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

Mar

18

SATURDAY

Green Mountain Club Hike at Mt. Independence, Orwell.

Saturday, March 18. This is a 5-6 mile hike on easy trails with views of Lake Champlain, the countryside and, weather permitting, Revolutionary War ruins of barracks, batteries and other remains.

Wear layered clothes hiking poles, water, snacks and or lunch. Contact Ruth Penfield at 802-3885407 or ruthpenfield@gmail.com. For other events and activities visit www.gmcbreadloaf.org.

Addison County River Watch Collaborative’s spring training in Middlebury. Saturday, March 18, 9 a.m., 14 Seminary St. River Watch’s spring training is for anyone interested in joining a group of citizen scientists who monitor local streams and rivers once per month from April to September. Volunteers will help sample on the Otter Creek, Middlebury River, Lemon Fair River, New Haven River, Lewis Creek and Little Otter Creek. Bagels, coffee and fruit will be served at 8:30 a.m.; program begins at 9 a.m.

Giant Book Sale in Brandon. Saturday, March 18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Brandon Inn. The Giant Book Sale and silent auction will take place, with puppetry from Laura King from 10-11 a.m., story hour from 12-1 p.m. with Stacy and Allison, and children’s music from 1-2 p.m. with the Nelsons. At 3 p.m. bargain hunters will find plummeting book prices and the final bell will ring at 5 p.m. signaling the end of the silent auction.

Bit & Bridle Story Time in Orwell. Saturday, March 18, 10 a.m., Orwell Free Library. Listen to horse themed stories, learn about the gear used to take care of and ride a horse and do horse activities.

For preschoolers and early elementary aged children.

Soup and sandwich luncheon in Shoreham.

Saturday, March 18, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Shoreham Congregational Church. Soup and sandwich luncheon will feature five kinds of soup: chicken, French onion, lentil, broccoli and cheese and vegetarian minestrone, and three kinds of sandwiches: chicken salad, egg salad and tuna salad.

Assorted cookies will be available for dessert along with coffee, tea or milk. $5 donation per individual; $20 for families of four or more; children under 3 eat free. All proceeds go to the Church Restoration Fund, which will be used to repair the lower level floor.

Sister-to-Sister Pool Party in Middlebury.

Saturday, March 18, 2-4 p.m., Middlebury College Pool. Sister-to-Sister Pool Party for middle school girls. Bring a bathing suit, towel and a friend. For those who haven’t signed up for the program, please contact Karin Hanta at khanta@middlebury.edu or 443-5937. Meet at the entrance to the Athletic Center at 2 p.m.

Cabin Fever Series concert in Bristol. Saturday, March 18, 8 p.m., Walkover Gallery, 15 Main St. The Walkover Concert Room presents Jeremiah McLain and Tim Cummings in concert as part of the 2017 Cabin Fever Series. $15 in advance; $20 day of show. For information and reservations call 453-3188 or 453-4613.

“Cloud Tectonics” in Middlebury. Saturday, March 18, 8 p.m., Hepburn Zoo, Middlebury College. Love alters the physics around you in some way: changing the speed of light and the shape of space and how you experience time.

Jose Rivera’s play “Cloud Tectonics” is a magical realist version of boy meets girl, where the ordinary is overtaken by the celestial. In downtown Los Angeles 1994, Anibal de Luna meets Celestina del Sol, a mystical wanderer who lives infinitely in the now-she has been pregnant for two years and is looking for the man who made her that way. Tickets: $5. www.middlebury.edu/ arts or 802-443-3168.

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19

SUNDAY

Champlain Valley Fiddlers in Middlebury. Sunday, March 19, noon-5 p.m., VFW Hall on Exchange Street. The Champlain Valley Fiddlers will perform, and all fiddlers are welcome for fun and dancing.

Refreshments available. $3 donation. For more information call 897-7461.

Sunday Music Series: Bob Recupero and Mark LaVoie in Middlebury. Sunday, March 19, 2 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek. You’ll enjoy these “local legends” who draw from different influences ranging from old blues musicians to cowboy songs and ballads. Free and open to the public. Handicap accessible. RSVP to Connie Leach at cleach@

St. Patty’s Day concert

PIPER TIMOTHY CUMMINGS will join colleagues Pete Sutherland and Dominique Dodge, along with special guests Jeremiah McLane and Mary Wesley in a free concert celebrating the traditional music and dance of Ireland and Vermont on Sunday, March 12, 4 p.m., at McCullough Student Center, Middlebury College.

Mar

20

MONDAY

Biology talk in Middlebury. Monday, March 20, 4:30 p.m., McCardell Bicentennial Hall, Middlebury College. Dr. Douglas Melton, co-director of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, will give a talk titled, “The promise of stem cells for cures and improved health.” Free and open to the public.

Mar

21

TUESDAY

ACHHH foot clinic in Middlebury.

Tuesday, March 21, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rec Center, Creek Road. Addison County Home Health & Hospice will sponsor a foot clinic.

Bring a basin and towel. Free.

Rabies clinic in Monkton. Tuesday, March 21, Monkton Volunteer Fire Department, 6-7 p.m.

Bring a copy of your pet’s most recent rabies vaccination. Rabies shots $15. The Town Clerk will be available to issue dog licenses as well.

Middlebury Community Players “Play Date” in Middlebury. Tuesday, March 21, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater. “Play Date” is a special event where potential directors, designers, actors and other interested theater friends can brainstorm ideas for future productions, chat with old friends and meet new ones. Enjoy refreshments and some surprise entertainment.

Fly Tying Class for Beginners in Middlebury.

Tuesday, March 21, 7-9 p.m., Middlebury Union High School, room H005. Fly tying class for beginners offered by the New Haven River Anglers Association. Instruction and materials provided at no cost. $50 refundable deposit for tools. Limited to 12 participants. Call Peter Burton 388-6876 to register.

Mar

22

WEDNESDAY

AARP fraud watch network presentation in Middlebury. Wednesday, March 22, 2:30 p.m., EastView at Middlebury, Community Room. AARP fraud watch network will present a series on cyber and community fraud.

Remembering and renewal group in Middlebury.

Wednesday, March 22, 5:30-7 p.m., Share stories and celebrate memories of those we have loved and lost. Pay tribute to the gratitude, grief and connection that remains alive in our minds and hearts. Be inspired in this safe, supportive community. 8-week session. Call Hospice Volunteer Services at 388-4111 or email molson@hospice. org for more information.

Postcard mania in the early 20th century talk with Robert Bogdan, author and professor emeritus at Syracuse University in Orwell. Wednesday, March 22, 7 p.m., Orwell Free Library. From 1905 through the 1920s postcards were wildly popular throughout the U.S. Vermont was no exception. Using illustrations of postcards from Orwell, Shoreham and other locations, the talk will discuss the postcard era with an emphasis on Vermont.

Regional Postcard Exhibit presented by Orwell Historical Society opens at 6pm.

Dan Evans in Brandon. Thursday, March 9, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music.

Mellow Yellow in Middlebury. Saturday, March 11, 3-6 p.m., 51 Main.

Blues Jam in Middlebury. Wednesday, March 15, 8-10 p.m., 51 Main.

Anthony Santor Trio in Middlebury. Friday, March 17, 7-9 p.m., 51 Main.

Bow Thayer in Brandon. Saturday, March 18, 7 p.m., Brandon Town Hall.

O’hAnleigh in Middlebury. Saturday, March 18, 7:30-9:30 p.m., 51 Main.

Chelsea Berry in Brandon. Saturday, March 25, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music.

ALL YOU CAN eat fish fry will be held Friday, March 10, 5-7 p.m., at St. Ambrose Catholic Church Parish Hall in Bristol. The menu will include fried or baked haddock, French fries, coleslaw, beverage and dessert. Adults $12.50; children age 9 and under $6; immediate family of five $37. For more information call St. Ambrose Church at 453-2488.

HARDWOODS & SOFTWOOD

At the Mill – QUALITY Kiln Dried Lumber

Over 100 years Superior Quality/ Great Prices

residenceottercreek.com or 388-1220.

Poetry reading in Middlebury. Sunday, March 19, 5 p.m., Havurah House, North Pleasant Street.

Local poets and writers will address the personal and political in a poetry reading. Members of the community are invited to the reading. The event is free and open to the public. For further questions contact Tal Birdsey at 388-7243

LIVEMUSIC

Fish fry

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 9A

See an extended calendar and a full listing of

ONGOINGEVENTS

on the Web at

www.addisonindependent.com

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Board Member Spotlight Sara Marshall

“For years I have been in awe of the amazing things going on at the Parent-Child Center for the youth of Addison County. So when a chance to serve on the board came up, I jumped on it. Now that I’m on the board I realize I didn’t know the half of the services this organization offers young parents and families. From the childcare to the parenting education to the outreach and more, the center offers opportunities that would not otherwise be available to the county’s young parents. I’m proud to be a part of it!”

acpcc@sover.net • addisoncountypcc.org • 388-3171

The Shoreham Inn We’re taking a little Spring Break!

We will be closed: Sunday, March 12th – Thursday, March 23rd Reopening: Friday, March 24th

St. Patrick’s Day will happen as usual!

Route 74 • Shoreham Village • 802.897.5081 • shorehaminn.com

ARO

PAGE 10A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

D N U

TOWN

Cheryl Mitchell lauded for Group trains citizens to test health of rivers how she changes the world

MIDDLEBURY — WomenSafe has announced that Cheryl Mitchell is the recipient of the 2017 Kimberly Krans Women Who Change the World Award. The public is invited to stop by on Wednesday, March 29, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 109 Catamount Park in Middlebury and help us honor and celebrate Mitchell’s dedication to the community. Refreshments will be provided.

Mitchell lives with her extended family on their sheep farm in New Haven. Over the years she has felt so grateful to be a part of this warm and wonderful Addison County Community. She has worked at Mary Johnson Children’s Center, been a co-founder and employee of the Addison County Parent/Child Center, Vermont’s Deputy of Agency of Human Services, worked at the University of Vermont and People of Addison County Together.

She attended Swarthmore College, UVM, and the Union Institute and University, but most of her learning has come from experience.

She worked with others to create the Addison County Community Trust, several childcare programs, the Vermont Parent/Child Center Network, the local branch of CCV, the Addison County Farmworkers Coalition, and the Addison County Dental Clinic.

She currently does consulting for NOFA (the Northeast Organic

CHERYL MITCHELL Farming Association) and the Agency of Education. She serves on the Boards of Nomadicare, Beacon Hill Friends House, Treleven, and the Permanent Fund for Vermont Children.

Please stop by on March 29 to celebrate Mitchell and all that she does for our community! For more information, contact WomenSafe at 388-9180.

WomenSafe presents the award annually to a woman in Addison County and Rochester whose outstanding work and achievements have had positive impacts on and furthered the safety of women and/ or children in our community. The award ceremony is held in March as part of National Women’s History Month.

Salisbury

NEWS

SALISBURY — The first ever Saturday afternoon town meeting was very successful with 87 people attending and most staying to enjoy a great potluck supper afterwards.

There were interesting displays set up by the fire department, the library, the conservation commission, the town hall restoration committee, the historical society, the congregational church, the Spotted Salamander and an emergency preparedness display.

The school had the baskets for their raffle displayed and tickets were available. Also the fourth-grade social studies students presented a video showing their class learning about town meetings and democracy.

Our legislative representative Peter Conlon spoke about work being done in Montpelier. There was a brief school department report and the various articles to be voted on

by Australian ballot were discussed.

Various door prizes were drawn and winners were Ben Fuller, Ariell Slater, Brian Carter, Rebecca Holmes, Celina Fuller, Sue Mackey, John Metcalf, Sally McClintock, Wendell Jacobs, Anne Filion and John Filion.

The rabies clinic will be held Tuesday, March 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the town office; dogs

Leicester

Have a news tip?

Call Mary Burchard at 352-4541

may be registered at this time. All dogs must be registered by April 1; the town office will be open that day from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for dog registrations and tax payments. The second property tax payment is due Wednesday, April 5; the office will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. that day.

The Salisbury Public Library will present a program on Ukrainian Easter Egg decorating on Thursday, March 23 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ellen Bodin will demonstrate the Pysansky process for creating colorful and detailed designs. If people are interested in creating these eggs themselves the library will schedule a workshop later.

The community school is holding their annual basket raffle. Basket themes this year are For the Dogs, Movie Night at Home, Death by Chocolate, Bird Lovers, First Aid, Garden, Summer at the Beach, Made in Vermont, Tea Party, and Arts and Crafts. Tickets $1 each or six for $5 and may be purchased at the school or from any student. The drawing will be held April 18 during the annual Spring Concert at the school.

Proceeds are used for the fifth- and sixth-grade class trip to Keewaydin’s Environmental Camp.

LINCOLN — Green Burial Vermont, will host a presentation/ discussion on Sunday, March 12, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Library, on River Road in Lincoln.

The short documentary video, “Dying Green,” will be shown, followed by a brief talk by Michelle Acciavatti, coauthor with the Calais Cemetery Commission of Bill H.3, currently under consideration in the Vermont Legislature. H.3 would raise the required minimum burial

milestones

registered by April 1. A dog census will be conducted shortly thereafter to locate any unregistered dogs.

To avoid any penalties, register your dog in time.

Frankie & Reese Wisnowski, Salisbury, Feb. 27, a son, Lockie Williams Wisnowski.

Happy 80th Birthday,

Wayman Norton!

Wayman’s family invites you to help celebrate his 80th birthday on March 15th with a card shower.

Your best wishes will be the “frosting on his birthday cake.”

45 Seminary Street • Middlebury, Vt. 05753

A RIVER WATCH Volunteer collects a sample in a tributary to the New Haven River last spring.

The New Haven River and Little Otter Creek are the “focus watersheds” in 2016-2017, meaning monitoring along those rivers and their tributaries have been intensified this coming season as well as last year. Witten said that there would be some time during the training to summarize the results from the 2016 sampling from the two focus watersheds.

During the upcoming training on March 18, participants will go over the routines for preparing sample bottles, collecting samples and filling out data forms. All the monitoring that the group’s volunteers conducts must be done according to EPAapproved protocols. Because River Watch carefully adheres to these prescribed methods, the state and federal governments approve

the validity of the data and the information can be used to guide management decisions.

The ACRWC Training is on Saturday, March 18 at the Addison County Regional Planning Commission offices in Middlebury (14 Seminary St.).

For more information, contact Matt Witten, 434-3236 or mwitten@ gmavt.net.

ADDISON COUNTY RIVER Watch Technical Consultant Kristen Underwood and Vermont DEC Watershed Scientist Ethan Swift explain sampling techniques to a roomful of volunteers at last year’s spring training.

Learn about ‘green burial’ at Lincoln Library on Sunday

Have a news tip?

Call the Addison Independent at 388-4944

NEWS

LEICESTER — Town Clerk Julie Delphia reminds residents there is a Rabies Clinic on Tuesday, March 14, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Town Office. All dogs are due to be

MIDDLEBURY — In the midst of March’s tug-o-war between winter and spring, the citizen-science group that monitors local rivers is gearing up for the 2017 season. Addison County River Watch Collaborative, an organization of about thirty volunteers and scientists, has been busy this winter reviewing last summer’s sampling data, meeting with local conservation commissions and other groups to discuss possible improvements in water quality, and strategizing about the best places to focus their water-sampling efforts this spring and summer.

Looking ahead to a busy coming season, River Watch will hold its annual Spring Training on Saturday, March 18 at the Addison County Regional Planning Commission offices in Middlebury. Bristol Bakery bagels, Vermont Coffee Company strong coffee, and fruit will be served starting at 8:30 a.m., with the actual training from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The Collaborative welcomes new volunteers as well as experienced stream samplers.

“We welcome anyone in Addison County interested in water quality to come to this event,” said Matt Witten, managing director of the Addison County River Watch Collaborative. “We have a higher than normal number of sites to monitor this year, so we encourage hearty souls to join us for early morning sampling once per month from April to September.”

Witten said that in the last few years, Addison County River Watch has “enjoyed a very high level of data validity and this is largely due to the attentiveness and thoroughness of our volunteers.”

During the training, River Watch staff and board members explain the importance of the various pollutants that participating volunteers sample for — such as phosphorus and E.coli — and go over the protocols for proper sampling.

The mission of River Watch is to monitor and assess the condition of Addison County’s creeks, streams and rivers over the long term, to raise public awareness of the values and functions of local watersheds, and to cultivate partnerships that support water quality stewardship.

births

THANK YOU I wish to thank everyone who sent me cards to help celebrate my 80th birthday.

There were many beautiful cards, and they made my day a joyous occasion.

Thank you,

Deanna Steadman

depth from five feet to three-and-ahalf feet, an important consideration for green burial practices. Acciavatti is a home funeral, green burial and advance care planning guide, and death midwife from Montpelier.

The presentation will be followed by audience questions and discussion with a panel consisting of Acciavatti, green burial consultant Ron Slabaugh of Middlebury and advocate/wildlife biologist Carl Anderson from West Berkshire.

Vermont is one of only two states

that set a legal minimum depth for burial. A few other states require a minimum depth of soil over the body and a three-and-a-half foot burial depth is consistent with these guidelines. Green burial is a return to the way we have cared for our dead for thousands of years. A green burial does not embalm the body, uses a simple biodegradable shroud or coffin, no concrete or steel vault and a grave only three-and-a-half feet deep.

Vermont is among the minority of

states that does not have a certified green burial facility, and Bill H.3 could help change that. There are currently 150 green burial sites in 28 states and the District of Columbia.

We believe Bill H.3 will help add Vermont to the list of states offering green burial as a viable option, and are optimistic about its passage.

Join us for a lively discussion and learn what you can do to support passage of H.3. Contact Green Burial Vermont for more information at vermontgreenburial@gmail.com.

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 11A

Session about to hit its stride

Letters to the Editor Giving back to others is part of the American tradition As the years go by, I find myself more and more worried about our country and the direction it seems to be going. Some of our countrymen seem to be forgetting our heritage and what this country stands for in the world. We hear some politicians are going to make America Great Again! In my opinion it was never not great. Why is half the world trying to come here?

It is my opinion that America is The Promised Land. There is no other country in the world known more for its freedoms, opportunities and blessings! When we watch the terrible news every evening that is full of nothing but war, hunger — suffering of these so-called tyrants that are to blame for it all — one wonders how will mankind ever be able to survive the future.

But back to my worries about America and our future. Our new President is surrounding himself with so-called billionaires and millionaires. I don’t really know any of them, but wonder “what about those in our country who have a hard time getting groceries on the table or hav-

ing a hard time paying their taxes?”

Do these billionaires have any idea what life is all about at ground level — looking out over the cities and countryside from their tower homes? Do they have any idea that there is more to life than what the stock market is doing? It would seem that inside trading might be where all their millions are coming from. Who knows?

I must admit I am not against wealth. If one has struggled, worked hard and honestly, to be where they are, then that’s the American way.

It’s how this wealth is or is not used that bothers me a bit.

One does not need a billion dollars to survive the rest of one’s life. Maybe a couple of million set aside to keep the home fires going would do it in most cases. But — what about all those other millions?

There is so much need out there!

If one has the resources, why not give a little help to those struggling to make ends meet. Maybe a little better car, maybe a house, taxes paid for a few years. An overdue hospital bill paid off would mean

the world to so many. Maybe, a million or two to pay off a hospital that just expanded or rebuilt.

A new fire truck for a small town or you pay off a town’s indebtedness, relieving town folk of their ever higher taxes? It’s not giving cash to people, it’s giving help to people, helping with things that would help them or their community. So much could be done to help, if a few million could be spared!

The satisfaction of such endeavors would be unbelievable! The payback would be the satisfaction of helping strangers with your bounty, which is what America is all about and still your ability to live as you always have as you help others.

In the end if one still has resources coming in, that’s great. Getting ahead is also the American way. All this said, sharing can be and is a great satisfaction. And, all of us, no matter what our financial situation, can in some small way help our neighbors and community and America. The promised land.

Edwin James Shoreham

Shutting down speaker sets a dangerous precedent I’m getting a bit tired of hearing about Donald Trump’s hair. Yes, it’s a bad comb-over, and yes, it can have a faint orange tint, but frankly, I wouldn’t care if he looked like an eight-foot tall hamster if I thought he were sane, competent, trustworthy and had the interests of America and Americans at heart.

Of course, what people are really saying when they complain about his looks is they don’t agree with him. And that bothers me, because I’m not excited to have people making fun of my hair the next time I run my mouth off about something.

Or insulting Hillary or Obama’s looks, either. Because what seems like innocent fun can easily turn darker, and if we set the precedent, we can’t very well complain if someone turns the tables on us.

It’s the same reason why the news of the disruption of Charles Murray’s speech last week concerns me so much (even leaving aside the violence at the end). As with Trump, there’s plenty to say to debunk his conclusions, and as with Trump, his statements — and what they’re used to justify — are troubling, to say the least. But the minute you respond to that by shutting out his voice, you’re saying it’s ok for yourself to be silenced next, because I can guarantee that in this political climate, no matter who you are, there

is someone who finds your views to be anathema.

Look at the call for fair and impartial policing. I am positive that there are many in Vermont who find the notion that our police may be motivated by racial bias — conscious or not — personally offensive and disruptive to the whole social fabric. What if they used that sense of umbrage to justify drowning out the voice of people who point out that they are pulled over by the police again and again simply because they are black?

As sanctimonious as the name “the Golden Rule” is, the concept is fairly simple: let’s set ground rules for behavior that apply equally to everyone. You can’t just operate on the principle that the ends justify the means, because what seems self-evidently right, even morally imperative, to you is just as self-evidently wrong to someone else. And what looks like virtuous resistance when you’re the actor may suddenly feel like tyranny when the shoe’s on the other foot.

By all means, point out that Murray’s scholarship is specious and his conclusions morally and intellectually bankrupt. Point out that Trump is acting like a particularly dim-witted bull in a very large china shop. Nominate Alec Baldwin for an Oscar.

Students’ behavior disturbing I was saddened to read about the abuse Allison Stanger endured at Middlebury College. I am the former Director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Middlebury.

Allison volunteered her time for several years as a recreation department youth basketball coach. She was a kind, sensible woman who was an excellent role model for the children she instructed.

I always considered her to be

one of my finest volunteers from the Middlebury community. It was extremely disturbing to read, down south in Tennessee where I live, how she was mistreated and injured for promoting discussion and free speech. What exactly has gone wrong with the students at Middlebury College? This is not the Middlebury I remember.

Tom Anderson Sevierville, Tenn.

Letters to the Editor can be found on Pages 4A, 5A, 7A and 11A.

But let’s leave the bullhorns and the orange-hair jokes at home.

Erin Ruble New Haven

The current legislative session has bookkeeping. Others felt it should gotten off to a sluggish start. We have be treated as an Educational Fund a new governor, a new lieutenant cost just like teachers’ salaries and governor and a new speaker of the employment benefits. Unfortunately, House of Representatives. Each of Gov. Scott delivered these ideas too these positions has a great amount of close to this year’s town meetings control over what happens and school boards had in the Statehouse. We are already shaped budgets. all getting used to the new Since level funded buddynamic. gets were not in the cards, Early in the session, transferring the retirement Gov. Scott delivered his package to the education budget address. In that fund means higher propaddress the governor chalerty taxes, and no one lenged legislators to conwants to go there. Teachtrol spending without imers paying 20 percent of posing new taxes. He also their health premium is proposed new education possible as all school disfunding measures: tricts are in contract nego• level fund education

by Rep. Fred Baser, tiations as we speak. spending, State Treasurer Beth R-Bristol • transfer the teachers Pearce has estimated the retirement package (pen20-year cost of complysion and health care) from the gener- ing with the Clean Water Act at $2.3 al fund to the education fund, billion. She and lawmakers have • and he proposed teachers pay 20 come up with multiple ways to pay percent of their health insurance pre- this bill. There is also a debate as to miums. whether all taxpayers should cover Savings from these initiatives all or some of these costs or should would go to additional funding for the burden fall on the cities, towns, pre-K programs and more money for farms, businesses, and other propour state colleges. These recommen- erty owners implicated in the clean dations were not well received. up. This is a big deal and a big bill.

All school districts are different. Thanks to existing money we have a For example, asking a district with two-year head start on funding. I bebelow-average per pupil costs to lev- lieve it is important to meet the Clean el fund just like a district that has a Water requirements. Let’s use the high per pupil cost seems unfair. The time we have to figure our spending transfer of retirement funding from priorities and who pays how much. the General Fund to the Education There is tri-partisan support to Fund was viewed by some as fancy create a pathway for construction

Legislative Review

of workforce housing. Workforce housing is apartments and owner occupied homes for households making up to 120 percent of the median income. A measure I put forward, H.163, has workforce-housing construction occurring in neighborhoods and downtown development zones.

This qualifies the building as “priority housing,” which gives projects a speed-pass on permitting and has a requirement for high-density construction, thus controlling two cost factors. The bill also addresses infrastructure costs by offering two alternative funding mechanisms. Affordable and workforce housing is an important issue if we want to grow the Vermont economy.

Other matters of importance that have or will appear on the floor, and move forward, include the governor’s response to the suggested immigration sweep by the Trump administration; a set of ethics rules by which lawmakers must abide; the lifting of the statute of limitations on sexual offences; more open reporting and information availability to those who have been abused; and an extension of the Public Service Board’s authority on cell and communication towers.

So, while we have only acted on a few bills so far this year, there are over 600 bills posted on the walls of House and Senate Committee rooms.

The second half of this legislative session promises to be very busy.

Contact Rep. Baser at fbaser@leg. state.vt.

Summer Camps Sign up now!

CHAMPLAIN DISCOVERY AT THE MARITIME MUSEUM Starting on June 19th ten students from the Champlain Valley ages 13-16 will build their own 17’ sea kayaks and then embark on a 10-day voyage of a lifetime. Participants in the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum’s Champlain Discovery program will paddle from Whitehall, New York transiting Lock #12 on the Champlain Canal and paddle to Burlington, Vermont. They will experience sites of cultural and natural historical significance as they challenge themselves in new and positive ways. The program culminates when they land in Burlington on the morning of July 22nd and are welcomed back to their worlds by family and friends.

The Maritime Museum is accepting applications for the Champlain Discovery program. Financial aid is available. Call 802-475-2022, email nickp@lcmm.org for information and an application, or check out the website www.lcmm.org.

COMMON GROUND CENTER Come to Common Ground Center for a week of outdoor fun in either April or July! With over 700 acres to explore we’ll be busy both weeks with all sorts of activities. April boasts a Let’s

Go Fishing program as well as all kinds of other spring time activities.

In July we’re offering a once in a lifetime day camp experience with swimming, archery, arts and themed programming. See our ad below for more information! Visit www.cgcvt. org or call 802-453-2592 to register.

GREEN MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES Now in our 19th season, Green Mountain Adventures offers a variety of outdoor adventure day camps uniquely designed to safely lead children and young adults (age 6-15) into the vast playground of rocks, rivers, and mountains surrounding our Central Vermont community. Participants engage in multi-activity wilderness adventures including canoeing and kayaking, mountain biking, fly fishing, geocaching, river-tubing, and rock climbing. Each of our camps provides imaginative and unforgettable journeys in some of the most beautiful backcountry wilderness areas in and around the Green Mountains. For all camps, a $100 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of registration. Day camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Pick up/drop off at Middlebury Mountaineer, 56 Main Street, Middlebury, VT 05753. For more

information or call Steve at the Mountaineer, 802-388-7245, or visit www.mmvt.com.

YMCA CAMP GREYLOCK AT KINGSLAND BAY STATE PARK A co-ed day camp for kids entering 1st– 6th grade, Camp Greylock is an outdoor learning and adventure camp that takes full advantage of its Lake Champlain shoreline and 287 acres of green and wooded natural beauty. Greylock is located at Kingsland Bay State Park on Lake Champlain in Ferrisburgh. There

are eight 1-week sessions. Greylock has been reimagined for 2017, with fewer campers each week and greater focus on nature and handson adventure. Archery, canoeing, swimming, building and cultivating a garden, nature-inspired art projects, and a Y counselor trained as a park interpreter are what await your child. Camp Greylock is a place where kids build skills, make friends and develop a sense of belonging. For more information, visit www.gbymca.org/youthdevelopment/camp/greylock/ or call 802-652-8139.

PAGE 12A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

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Town Meeting Results Shoreham

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budget that required a property tax levy of $947,144.

For the first time in many decades, Bridport residents didn’t decide a local school budget at their town meeting. They — along with other voters in the newly unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) — instead decided a K-12 budget for the entire seven-town district.

ACSD voters approved a 2017-2018 budget that calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs for all of all district schools. The budget reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

Bridport’s resulting homestead education property tax rate is projected to decline from the current $1.82 per $100 in property value to $1.580, according to the ACSD budget presentation.

In other Town Meeting Day action, Bridport voters: • Supported various Addison County social service agency requests totaling $22,500.

• Agreed to spend $12,500 next year in support of their local fire department.

• Earmarked $8,000 for the Town Line First Response service.

• Decided a variety of elections in which candidates were running unopposed this year. They included Suzanne Buck, who won a threeyear seat on the Addison Central School District board. Buck was also unopposed for a 10-month term on the Bridport School Board. That local board will go out of existence at the end of this year as the ACSD gradually assumes all responsibilities for K-12 public education throughout the ACSD.

★ Addison ★ ADDISON — In Australian balloting on March 7 Addison residents supported the municipal spending proposal. There were no contested races on Addison’s Town Meeting Day ballot.

Incumbent Selectmen Rob Hunt and Peter Briggs and Water Commissioner Steve Kayhart all won election without opposition, as did two listers and one auditor and a number of other officers.

Three incumbent school directors won as write-in candidates for limited duties on boards that will dissolve at the end of 2017, as the Addison Northwest School District Board takes full control of the newly unified district. Michele Kelly and Eugene Stearns were returned to the Addison Central School board with 13 votes, and Laurie Childers to the Vergennes Union High School board with 17 votes.

Residents backed selectboard proposals for $322,799 in spending for the town’s general fund/ administration budget for 2017, down from $325,260 for 2016, and for $742,565 in road spending, up about $10,000 from last year.

Included in that support was the use of $37,253 of a surplus from 2016 to offset taxes.

Residents also approved a total of $56,056 in requests from nonprofits that serve the town and county, up by about $4,500 from 2016.

The first-ever ANWSD unified union budget of $21,116,289 to support the four ANWSD schools and its central office, plus the district’s share of the Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center budget, won overall backing in the five district towns, 924-699. Addison opposed it, 129-121.

Addison residents joined their peers in other towns in supporting the creation of a $100,000 ANWSD capital improvement fund by an overall margin of 1,008-608. In Addison the margin was 141-110.

On Monday night residents gathered to discuss issues, although no decisions were made.

Town Hall Committee Chairman John Spencer updated residents on the progress of the plan to renovate the historic former Town Hall on Route 22A, not far from the central school and clerk’s office.

Those plans include a proposed communal septic system downslope from the Addison Four Corners area — on which a March 14 public hearing is planned at 7 p.m. at the town clerk’s office — and a land swap between the school district and town near the clerk’s office and school.

Selectboard Chairman Jeff Kauffman also led a discussion of the town’s interim bylaw on alternative energy development.

Also discussed was a potential town website, which residents generally said they favor. Addison abandoned its website a few years ago after Vermont created a law requiring meeting minutes to be posted within a week because the selectboard was concerned the town could not meet that deadline, but the board put some money in the budget this year to fund a website and is considering how to move forward.

Brandon

Cornwall Ferrisburgh

★

PANTON TOWN MODERATOR Doug Dows listens to a question from the floor of town meeting Tuesday morning.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Brandon Library board of trustees.

Residents weighed in on the Otter Valley Unified Union School District budget via Australian ballot on Tuesday. Voters approved a $19,772,608 spending plan for the OVUUSD, which includes the towns of Brandon, Goshen, Pittsford, Sudbury, Leicester and Whiting. The spending plan passed by a tally of 635-438 district wide and represents $14,708 per equalized student, a 1.4 percent increase from the 2016 fiscal year.

Brandon voters also cast ballots for three at-large school board members.

In the only contested race, Barbara Ebbing of Brandon won a seat over Eileen Guyette of Pittsford, 567-413.

Ebbing will finish the remaining two

years on a three-year seat; plus Emily Nelson and Matt Philo won election to fill two three-year seats.

★ Bridport ★ BRIDPORT — Bridport residents at their town meeting Tuesday decided two contested races for their local selectboard and passed all money items on their ballot.

Tim Howlett narrowly won a three-way race for a two-year term on the selectboard. He prevailed with 83 votes, over David Bronson (79) and Michael Lawton (66). Howlett replaces Marian Walker, who did not seek re-election.

Meanwhile, challenger Matthew Lawton easily topped incumbent Jerry Forbes, 171-52, for a threeyear term as selectman.

The selectboard won voter approval to spend up to $325,000 in accumulated surplus funds to replace the Sunderland Bridge on Crown Point Road. The bridge deck is deteriorating and needs to be replaced, according to town officials.

The selectboard has applied for a $175,000 state grant to reduce the town’s outlay for the work.

Voters agreed, by voice vote, to spend a combined total of $1,009,815 in taxes to subsidize town and public works services for fiscal year 2018.

Last year, residents OK’d, by voice vote, a combined town-highway

Bristol

★

BRISTOL — Town Meeting Day in Bristol saw selectboard Chair Michelle Perlee retain her seat against challenger Lance Laliberte, approval of nearly $2 million in town spending and Bristol residents OK’d revised zoning regulations that were five years in the making. Sidewalk repair and school board salaries were the focus of the most discussion on the floor of town meeting Monday evening at Holley Hall.

Perlee defeated challenger Laliberte, 354-239.

Selectman John “Peeker” Heffernan won unopposed as did all other Bristol town officials, including Jen Myers, town clerk, town treasurer and delinquent tax collector; Fred Baser, town moderator; and Anne Wallace, library trustee.

The revised zoning regulations are designed to increase housing nearer to the village center and increase economic opportunities across all zones, while protecting agricultural and forest land and preventing sprawl.

Voters on Town Meeting Day also readopted Bristol’s 2012 town plan, minus the now-obsolete 2012 zoning maps. The 2012 plan was set to expire in November, but with voter readoption will now be valid through

★ Brandon ★ BRANDON — All the items on the Brandon town meeting ballot were approved, including the $2,999,986 municipal budget, which earned 437 yes votes to 199 no votes. The amount to be raised by taxes to cover that budget is $2,559,066, which represents a 1.1 percent decrease, from 94.37 cents to 93.43 cents per $100 of property value.

Voter turnout was dismally low, with just 651 people voting out of 2,897, or roughly 22 percent.

The article asking voters to spend up to $50,00 for paving on North Street, Furnace Road and elsewhere in town was approved, 488-148.

All of the appropriations for nonprofit groups earned voter approval, including $85,000 for the Brandon Library; $13,500 for the Brandon Senior Center; and $20,735 for the Brandon Area Rescue Squad.

All of the incumbents looking to return to their to town positions were unchallenged. Re-elected were Bill Moore, town moderator; Sue Gage, town clerk and town treasurer; Doug Bailey, three-year term on the selectboard; Brian Coolidge and Seth Hopkins, one-year term each on the selectboard; Tanner Romano, trustees of public funds; Carol Fjeld,

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2022. The planning commission will next turn its attention to revising that document, said Chair Sue Kavanagh.

The Bristol Elementary School spending plan of $4,719,558 for 2017-2018 passed with 57 percent of votes in favor (357-265).

Also on Town Meeting Day, Bristol together with the other four towns of the Addison Northeast Supervisory Union approved the $12,261,839 Mount Abraham Union High School spending plan, 1,333796, with all ballots commingled.

The Mount Abe budget represents an 8.42 percent spending decrease from the current academic year. The budget includes $1 million to fix the aging Mount Abe building.

On the floor of town meeting Monday night, voters approved as proposed: • A General Fund Operating budget of $933,401.

• A Highway Fund Operating budget of $775,523.

• An Arts, Parks and Creations department budget of $250,195.

The General Fund passed without discussion. Questions were asked about why the budget and staff hours were decreased for The Hub Teen Center. But what gathered likely the night’s lengthiest discussion was the state of and funding for Bristol’s sidewalks.

Voters described a number of sidewalks that flooded or were hard to use because of snow plowing or for other reasons, and asked about whether a Pine Street sidewalk was in the works.

Selectmen Peeker Heffernan and Joel Bouvier explained that repairs were scheduled for this June and July, drawing on the 2016-2017 and the 2017-2018 town budgets.

Voters then amended article 10 to address the sidewalk issue.

As warned that article proposed appropriating a total of $300,000 to a number of town reserve funds, including a “Capital Road Fund — Construction” for $35,000.

The amendment renamed that particular reserve fund the “Capital Road and Sidewalk Fund — Construction,” allocated $40,000 (rather than $35,000), and stipulated that at least 10 percent of that reserve fund be used to repair Bristol’s sidewalks. This changed the total approved for all reserve funds in article 10 to $305,000.

A lengthy discussion also ensued over what to pay school directors.

The ANeSU central office had hoped to simplify accounting and switch from the current $500 annual stipend plus $15/meeting to a stipend only.

The amount was finally approved at $1,000/year for ordinary board members and $1,200/year for the chair, with no per-meeting payments.

Selectboard stipends had been approved earlier in the evening at the current rate of $500/year plus $15/ meeting with no discussion.

Bristol residents also took time at different points throughout the evening to honor community members.

Bristol Elementary School Principal Kevin Robinson drew applause when he praised school staff, saying: “We’re very fortunate to have a staff that truly cares about making a difference. And I assure you that your tax dollars are applied in a way you can be proud of.”

Local school board member Allison Sturtevant praised retiring teachers Mary-Jane Broughton, Kathleen McKennan, Andrea Halnon and Carol Spaid, and counselor Jere Urban.

“We are very blessed. We have a tremendous treasure here in Bristol,” said Sturtevant, drawing applause for the Bristol Elementary retirees and their contribution to the community.

Townspeople also learned that Town Administrator Therese Kirby would be leaving her position at the end of June. Kirby began as assistant town clerk in 2005, was elected town clerk in 2007 and became town administrator in 2014. Kirby and her husband, Dave Kirby, plan to move to Brookfield.

Kirby received a standing ovation for her service to Bristol and reminded folks that they will continue to see her at work in the town office through the end of June.

★ Cornwall ★ SILAS TOWLER STANDS to speak as a trustee of the Bixby Library during Ferrisburgh’s annual town meeting Saturday morning. Town Moderator Bill Clark can be seen in the background.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

CORNWALL — Cornwall residents approved all of the articles on their town meeting warning, without a lot of discussion or fanfare.

At Monday night’s town meeting, residents OK’d by voice vote a fiscal year 2018 general fund budget of (See Cornwall Page 13A)

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 13A

Salisbury Vergennes Granville Addison Orwell Panton Bridport Whiting Lincoln Starksboro

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Town Meeting Results

(Cornwall continued from Page 12A) $454,249, which was down from the $$460,946 passed last year.

The proposed highway budget of $400,950 — slightly less that the $403,050 that voters authorized for the current year — also passed easily.

Combined, the budgets represent a 1.9-percent reduction compared to this year.

For the first time in many decades, Cornwall residents did not decide a local school budget on their town meeting day. They — along with other voters in the newly unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) — instead voted on a K-12 spending plan for the entire seventown district.

ACSD voters approved a 2017-2018 budget that calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs for all of all district schools. The budget reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

Cornwall’s resulting homestead education property tax rate is projected to remain level at roughly $1.60 per $100 in property value, according to ACSD budget documents.

There were no contested elections this year. Elected unopposed

Shoreham

Hancock

Middlebury

Brandon

Cornwall Ferrisburgh

Cornwall Free Public Library.

• Grant a five-year property tax exemption to the Mary Baker Allen Chapter DAR House.

• Eliminate the elected position of road commissioner, and instead make it an appointed position.

• Approve a combined $25,620 for various Addison County social service agencies.

★Ferrisburgh★

WALTHAM RESIDENTS SHARE a laugh during a lighter moment at town meeting Monday night.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

were incumbent Selectmen Brian Kemp and Benjamin Wood for terms of three years and two years, respectively; Rodney Cadoret, one year, collector of delinquent taxes; Cindy Peet and Kristianne Tolgyesi, each for terms of 10 months, on

the local elementary school board; and Bobbie Carnworth and James Duclos for three-year terms on the local planning commission.

There were no takers for several offices, including town moderator (one year); library trustee (two

Best of Luck in the future to all Addison County Students!

years); and planning commission (three years).

In other action at town meeting, Cornwall residents agreed to: • Appropriate $66,900 for the Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department.

• Earmark $4,000 for the

You are Addison County’s future.

We are proud of you!

ADDISON COUNTY

INDEPENDENT

VERMONT’S TWICE-WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

ADDISONCOUNTYEDC.ORG • 802-388-7953

Middlebury, VT 05753 • (802) 388-4944 • www.AddisonIndependent.com

FERRISBURGH — Ferrisburgh residents on Tuesday chose a new selectman and treasurer, returned their town clerk and another selectman to office, and supported the first-ever Addison Northwest School District budget, which passed overall.

At Saturday’s town meeting, town residents approved selectboard spending proposals — with two amendments — that included the purchase of a new, fully equipped $190,000 tandem dump truck.

Two of the contested races involved incumbent Treasurer Garrit Smits, who has faced criticism from the Ferrisburgh selectboard, auditors and fellow employees.

Current auditor Deb Healey defeated Smits in the treasurer’s race, 531-82.

Smits’ other race was a rematch of sorts: He won the treasurer’s job

Keep your Eye on your future goals!

Mon 8-4 • Tues–Fri 8-5

27 Main Street,Vergennes

Students of the Week from area High Schools Otter Valley Union High School Mount Abraham Union High School Otter Valley Union High School is pleased to recognize Courtney Randall as its Student of the Week. Courtney lives in Leicester with her parents, Diane and Greg Randall. Her brother, Cody, is a 2016 graduate of St. Michael’s College and currently works for Otter Creek/Long Trail Brewery in Middlebury.

Courtney has consistently made the Honor Roll and was inducted into the National Honor Society as a junior. She has taken many advanced classes and is currently taking AP Literature. Courtney will be taking Intro to Psychology at Community College of Vermont for the spring semester. She has received awards for excellence in Advanced American Studies, Health Studies and has received the OVTA Citizenship Award in her eighth- and tenth-grade years.

Courtney has played field hockey since the seventh grade and was on the 2015 Division II State Championship Team during her junior year. She was named to the Addison Independent’s All Star Team and was also given the Most Improved Award during the 2016 season. Courtney also played softball until her sophomore year at Otter Valley. She has been Otter Valley’s yearbook editor and chief since junior year, as well as doing ad sales during senior year. Courtney has also been a member of Student Council and Otter Courtney Randall Paws.

O.V.U.H.S. Courtney has worked at The Storm Cafe in Middlebury since May of 2015.

She was also an intern at Leicester Central School during the school year in the younger classrooms. In the summer, besides working at The Storm Cafe, Courtney works as a counselor at the Leicester School’s Summer Alive Camp.

She has been on their staff since the ninth grade as a volunteer and as paid staff.

For the past 14 years, Courtney has danced in ballet, tap and jazz but primarily lyrical and hip hop. She also enjoys spending time outside hiking and swimming.

Courtney’s personal philosophy would be to always try your best, persevere, ask questions and practice hard. And if you do not succeed, then you know it isn’t because you didn’t try your best. Her advice to other students is to stay true to yourself, surround yourself with people that truly care about you and always be kind.

After high school, Courtney plans to attend college. She has always had a love for children that she would like to expand upon, either as a teacher, speech language pathologist or child psychologist.

Teacher Michael Dwyer says, “Yearbook editors don’t normally run in families because the second sibling knows how much work is involved. That did not deter Courtney from taking on the editor’s responsibilities for this year’s yearbook. To that task, she brings all her organization, hard work and persistence. Courtney’s school days are full with classes, her internship, sports, and of course, the final demands of production.”

Mount Abraham Union High School is pleased to announce Coleman Russell as its Student of the Week. Coleman lives in Bristol with his parents, Jean and Gary Russell. His sister, Lane, graduated from Lesley University last year.

Coleman has received academic excellence honors throughout his high school career, and continually makes the Honor Roll. He’s currently enrolled in AP English and AP Calculus and excelled in economics. He was chosen to represent MAUHS at the Vermont Leadership Conference during his junior year, and selected as a candidate for Green Mountain Boys State.

Coleman has played basketball from grades 7-12, starting on varsity since sophomore year. He played football from grades 7-12 as quarterback, and was Team Captain his senior year. He was also selected to represent the Mt. Abe/Vergennes Co-op Team in the North/South All-Star Senior Bowl Classic.

Coleman has been part of the baseball team in grades 10-12, and played first base and was leadoff batter for the 2016 State Championship Team. He is also a cast member in the Spring musical, “Rent.”

For the past three years, Coleman has worked at the Mary Johnson Children’s BASK Program as a Recreational Assistant over the summer, leading youth activities and engaging children in a variety of tasks. He is a Coleman Russell member of the St. Ambrose Church, where he has been an altar server since M.A.U.H.S. third grade. He regularly volunteers in the Knights of Columbus Free Throw contest, and has assisted umpiring for Bristol Youth Sports. He has donated his time in a variety of church-related activities over the years through St. Ambrose youth groups and also through Bristol’s Young Life Organization.

When not in school, Coleman likes to hang out with friends, play basketball, go snowboarding, play Xbox and listen to music.

Coleman’s personal philosophy is to do what makes you happy, and don’t let opportunities pass you by.

His advice to other students is to make the most of their high school experience, but remember there is a whole world waiting for you when you graduate.

Advisor Bruce Babbitt says, “Coleman has been in my advisory since the first day of his freshman year. I’ve enjoyed spending time with him and watching him grow into a thoughtful, devoted student with quiet leadership skills, who is admired by the faculty and his peers. He excels in the classroom, the athletic field and in my art room.”

AP Calculus Teacher Heather MacDonald says, “Coleman is a thoughtful and inquisitive student. He is always asking questions to get a better understanding of the math concept we are studying. He never gives up and goes above and beyond to make sure he has thought about a problem from all angles. I enjoy having Coleman in class and I know his classmates feel the same!”

Otter Valley Students of the week receive a gift certificate from the Book & Leaf Bookstore. Mt. Abe Students receive a free pizza from Cubbers. Students of the Week from ALL area high schools will receive a gift certificate from Vermont Book Shop. Students of the Week are chosen by school teachers and administration.

Barash Mediation Services Phoebe Barash Family/Divorce Mediation • Facilitation Conflict Management Trainings

Congratulations, Bert & Courtney &Ernie Coleman 877-3188 Main St., Vergennes, VT

To volunteer call 388-7044 or visit www.unitedwayaddisoncounty.org

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Andrea, Bill & John wish all students a bright future.

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Serving the Champlain Valley Since 1945

Congratulations Congratulations Emily & Courtney &Elijah Coleman

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We’re proud to support all area students and want to say “Thanks” to those who volunteer with us!

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8 Main Street •Bristol, VT • 453-2400

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in 2014 in a close contest with Town Clerk Gloria Warden. This time he filed to run against Warden for the clerk’s job, but she brushed aside the challenge, 571-60.

It is possible Healey and Warden will be the last elected to the two jobs: The Ferrisburgh selectboard is moving to write the town’s first charter, one that if eventually approved by voters and the Legislature would make the positions appointed, not elected. The charter was a topic at town meeting on Saturday morning, and Selectboard Chairwoman Loretta Lawrence said residents were receptive to the proposal.

In the contested race for the selectboard, Rick Ebel defeated Dennis Armell, 362-197, for an opening created when longtime Selectman Jim Warden chose not to run for re-election. Warden was honored on Saturday. Selectman Jim Benoit was returned to the board without opposition.

Also returned to office without opposition were Vergennes Union High School director George Gardner and Ferrisburgh Central School directors Laurie Gutowski, Brad Hargett and Chris Kayhart.

Those boards will do little business this year as the ANWSD board takes over, and the VUHS and FCS boards will officially dissolve at the end of 2016.

Voters backed the Ferrisburgh selectboard’s $1,850,100 budget proposal, but not before adding $8,491 in support for the Bixby Library in Vergennes, boosting that line item from $52,559 to $ 61,050.

Lawrence said there was “lively discussion” on the question, and that some residents asked for more information on the library’s service to Ferrisburgh.

That figure also does not include an estimated $41,000 for the first year’s payments on the $190,000 truck and equipment, or $32,778 in charitable requests backed by voters.

Voters also backed a measure to start a Conservation Fund, and increased its funding by $50 to $550.

The selectboard chose to apply $66,000 of an audited $216,000 surplus from the 2016 fiscal year toward tax reduction.

Overall, ANWSD residents backed the proposed first-ever unified union budget of $21,116,289 by 924-699.

In Ferrisburgh the vote ran in favor, 396-250, for a plan that will support the four ANWSD schools and its central office, plus the district’s share of the Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center budget.

Ferrisburgh residents also joined their peers in other ANWSD towns in supporting the creation of a $100,000 capital improvement fund by an overall margin of 1,008-608.

The vote in Ferrisburgh ran 400-235 in favor.

★ Goshen ★ GOSHEN — Goshen residents passed by voice the proposed municipal budget of $232,817 and highway budget of $209,200 on Monday night, after the customary town meeting potluck.

Goshen’s now-finalized highway budget has risen 11.7 percent since last year. Residents discussed improving town roads at Monday’s meeting, and suggested that the selectboard draw out a long-term plan to assign an appropriate amount of spending that will be put aside each year into a sinking fund. The plan, which will address the expected cost of road maintenance over the next decade, will be proposed at next year’s town meeting.

Residents voted to appropriate $4,000 earned during the Goshen Town Forest timber sale toward renovations of town buildings.

Candidates for town offices ran unopposed. Among those re-elected via Australian Ballot were Jeff Cathcart, who will serve a three-year term on the selectboard, and Kevin O’Classen for a one-year term as moderator. Marty Fjeld won election to serve one year of a two-year term left by Dave Bishop on the OVUUS school board. Vickee Whiting won election to take Barbara Brown’s place as Goshen’s delinquent tax collector. Sixty-four out of 164 registered voters cast ballots in Tuesday’s election.

Residents chose candidates for town offices and weighed in on the Otter Valley Unified Union School District budget via Australian ballot on Tuesday. Voters approved a $19,772,608 spending plan for the OVUUSD, which includes the towns (See Goshen Page 14A)

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Town Meeting Results Shoreham

Hancock

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Cornwall Ferrisburgh

(Goshen continued from Page 13A) of Goshen, Brandon, Pittsford, Sudbury, Leicester and Whiting. The spending plan passed by a tally of 635-438 districtwide and represents $14,708 per equalized student, a 1.4 percent increase from the 2016 fiscal year.

Goshen voters also cast ballots for three at-large school board members.

In the only contested race, Barbara Ebbing of Brandon won a seat over Eileen Guyette of Pittsford, 567-413.

Ebbing will finish the remaining two years on a three-year seat; plus Emily Nelson and Matt Philo won election to fill two three-year seats.

★ Hancock ★ HANCOCK — The Hancock town meeting ran pretty smoothly on Tuesday as residents gathered for the first time in the town firehouse while the town hall gets repairs.

Those in attendance rejected one

Leicester New Haven

★Middlebury★

★ Granville ★ GRANVILLE — Residents of Granville passed the town, highway and school budgets by voice vote on Tuesday evening at the town hall.

Granville’s overall public spending plan for 2017-2018 was approved at $345,873. The municipal spending plan was passed as presented at $178,073, down 2 percent from $181,781 for the current year.

Highway spending was approved at $167,800, which is down 7.6 percent from $179,500.

Richard Poole announced his candidacy for selectman from the floor of Tuesday’s meeting. He was approved for a three-year term, and will replace Selectman Norm Arseneault, whose term expired this week. School board member Erika Linskey was re-elected to a threeyear term in a floor vote.

Voters rejected an article that would have allowed the U.S. Postal Service to erect a modular building on a rented space next to the town hall, which would have housed a new Granville Post Office.

Residents passed a school spending plan of $764,433, a 13.6 percent increase from last year, which is attributed to an increase in students. Granville had a low of 22 students in 2013, and currently it has 44 students in pre-K to 12th grade.

On April 11, residents in Granville and Hancock will vote on whether to create the Granville Hancock Unified District in compliance with Act 46, Vermont’s school governance unification law. If this is approved, and some other moves in the White River Valley SU are approved, Granville would see four years of property tax breaks.

In 2016, Windsor Northwest and Orange Windsor supervisory unions merged to form the White River Valley Supervisory Union, which encompasses 10 towns. Granville and Hancock are the only two towns in the union that tuition all of their students to the schools of the student’s choice. In addition to the tax breaks, it is hoped that the unification will level out the swings in student numbers and thus swings up and down in the education taxes residents pay.

Ripton

PAULA BOGAN COUNTS a show of hands during a vote on the floor at Tuesday’s town meeting in Panton.

article — it asked whether they wished to spend $50,000 on a used tanker truck for the fire department.

But the rejection came only as a housekeeping matter since the $50,000 appropriation was added to the town spending plan.

The town spending plan, which was warned as $417,470, was amended to $467,470 so the tanker truck expenditure would appear there. Voters then approved the spending plan on a voice vote.

Residents also OK’d appropriations to a dozen organizations, the largest of which is $19,380 to White River Valley Ambulance.

School spending for the coming year proposed at $847,654 was approved by voice vote. That amount was down 12.2 percent from the current year due largely to changes in the number of students in town.

It is estimated that spending per equalized pupil would rise about 1.2 percent to $17,344.

Bruce Hyde, Hancock’s representative to the White River Valley Supervisory Union school district, discussed the April 11 vote on whether to created the Granville Hancock Unified School District.

If this is approved, and some other moves in the White River Valley SU are approved, Granville Hancock would see four years of property tax breaks. In addition to the tax breaks, it is hoped that the unification would level out the swings in student numbers and thus swings up and down in the education taxes residents pay. Town Clerk Olivia Drury said preserving school choice seemed to be important to those involved in the discussion. A hearing on the merger will be held April 10, 6 p.m., at the Hancock Town Clerk’s office.

Selectman John Ross was returned for another three-year term on the selectboard without opposition. At a school board meeting on Tuesday, board member Monica Collins took

over as chair from Ross.

Incumbent school board member Kenneth Troumbley was also reelected unopposed to the school board. School board member Rose Juliani told Hancock residents that if they approve the school unification item on April 11 causing her term to expire April 30 then she will not seek election to the school board again.

After many years on the library board, Geraldine Twitchell stepped down and Jody Troumbley took her place.

Marge Ross again organized a wonderful pot luck that was enjoyed by all after the meeting.

★ Leicester★ LEICESTER — At Monday evening’s town meeting, Leicester residents passed by voice the proposed municipal spending plan, but only after an amendment was made to remove a $625 appropriation that had been set aside for Maple Leaf Farm.

The final sum of $629,290.73 was passed by voice vote, divided into a general expense ($282,955.73) and highway budget ($346,335).

The approved spending plan leaves a total of $470,641.50 to be raised by taxes. These figures represent decreases of less than $1,000 in taxes to pay for general expenses and around $7,000 in taxes to pay for highway expenses. Residents also approved an additional $20,000 for road paving.

By paper vote, 26 said “yes” and 5 said “no” to authorize the selectboard to appoint first and second constables.

The constables will be prohibited from exercising law enforcement authority in the town, but will serve to assist the town health officer and serve as district court officer, among

other duties.

The terms for three selectboard members expired after this year’s town meeting, and voters reelected all three to new terms on the selectboard on Tuesday via Australian ballot: John Rouse for a three-year term, Tom Barker for a two-year term and Ron Fiske for the remaining year on a two-year term.

Residents chose candidates for town offices and weighed in on the Otter Valley Unified Union School District budget via Australian ballot on Tuesday. Voters approved a $19,772,608 budget for the OVUU School District, including the towns of Leicester, Brandon, Pittsford, Sudbury, Whiting and Goshen. The spending plan passed by a tally of 635-438 and represents $14,708 per equalized student, a 1.4 percent increase from the 2016 fiscal year.

Leicester voters also cast ballots for three at-large school board members. In the only contested race, Barbara Ebbing of Brandon won a seat over Eileen Guyette of Pittsford, 567-413. Ebbing will finish the remaining two years on a three-year seat; plus Emily Nelson and Matt Philo were elected to two three-year seats on the school board.

★

Lincoln

★

LINCOLN — At Monday night’s annual meeting, Lincoln voters approved the Lincoln Community School budget from the floor for the last time.

The 2017-2018 LCS budget is $2,101,791. Next year all Addison Northeast Supervisory Union elementary school budgets will be voted on by Australian ballot as part of a single Addison Northeast Supervisory District budget. The unified ANESD will commence full educational and operational services

RESIDENTS OF GOSHEN suggested that the selectboard create a long-term spending plan for road paving at Monday night’s town meeting.

Independent photo/Emma Cotton

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

on July 1, 2018.

Lincoln voters also approved Highway Fund expenditures of $1,023,935 and General Fund expenditures of $336,950.

Town Clerk Sally Ober reported that one of the most intensely debated issues Monday night was over authorizing $75,000 to roof and repair the old town shed as unheated storage for town highway vehicles and equipment. The discussion lasted over 20 minutes as residents considered the cost of repairing the building, the cost of demolishing it and the cost of a new structure. Lincoln built a new town garage over 10 years ago. The 2001 bond for the town garage is expected to be paid off by fiscal year 2021.

In the end, voters approved the $75,000 as it was warned.

Voters approved a total of $112,296 to fund Lincoln-based organizations, including: • $55,896 for the Lincoln Volunteer Fire Company.

• $44,000 for the Lincoln Library.

• $5,000 for the Lincoln Cemetery Association.

As part of that $112,296, residents doubled the amount requested by the Lincoln Conservation Commission for invasive species removal, upping the proposed $200 to $400. Conservation Commission members will use the funds in part to organize a “Green Up”-style communitywide event to remove poison parsnip and wild chervil especially, said Ober.

A $7,500 appropriation to the Bristol Rescue Squad won approval.

The Lincoln selectboard had warned $18,210 for 19 county-wide agency requests and all were approved with one exception. Residents voted not to fund the Addison County Economic Development Corporation in any amount.

This brought the total approved for 18 local agencies to $17,710, including: • $2,500 to the Bristol Recreation Department.

• $2,000 to HOPE (Helping Overcome Poverty’s Effects).

• $1,600 to the Counseling Service of Addison County.

• $1,250 to WomenSafe. * $400 to Addison County River Watch.

On Town Meeting Day, two of Lincoln’s three contested elections went to incumbents. Will Sipsey defeated challenger Alan Kamman, 148-137, for town moderator. Mark Truax defeated Matthew Collins for second constable, 145-121.

Kamman, however, became Lincoln’s new school meeting moderator, defeating Sipsey, 144-139.

Other town officials elected unopposed included: Sally Ober, town clerk; Lisa Truchon, town treasurer and lister; Bill Finger and Oakley Smith for selectboard; and Joshua Otey for first constable.

Also on Town Meeting Day, Lincoln together with the other four towns of the Addison Northeast Supervisory Union approved the $12,261,839 Mount Abraham Union High School spending plan, 1,333-796, with all ballots commingled. The Mount Abe spending plan represents an 8.42 percent decrease from the current academic year. The budget includes $1 million to fix the aging Mount Abe building.

MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury residents this week passed all the money items on their town meeting warning, including their town budget, a slight raise for their selectboard members, and a proposal to reestablish a police canine program.

Residents at their annual gathering on Monday overwhelmingly passed, by voice vote, a 2017-2018 municipal budget of $10,321,456, of which $7,106,034 is be raised by taxes. The budget will result in a 0.42-cent decrease in the current municipal tax rate.

Residents also agreed by voice vote to spend $106,000 to replace two police cruisers and wood chipper for the Public Works Department.

In Australian budget voting on Tuesday, residents decided: • By a margin of 530 to 211, to raise selectboard members’ annual stipend from the current $1,500 to $1,800, along with a bump from $2,500 to $3,200 for the board chairperson. The raise was petitioned by a local resident, Ross Conrad.

• Supported, by a tally of 476 to 256, a proposal for $30,620 to reestablish the town’s police canine program.

• Agreed to add two new social service agencies to the list of agencies they give annual funding.

They voted 637 to 114 in favor of Addison County Restorative Justice Services’ request for $2,500, and 626 to 127 in favor of the Addison County River Watch Collaborative’s request for $1,200.

There were no contested elections in Middlebury this year. Reelected unopposed were incumbent selectboard members Brian Carpenter and Laura Asermily, to three-year terms; and incumbent ID-4 school board members Amy Graham, Victoria Jette and Lorraine Morse, to 10 month terms. Former Gov. James Douglas was returned to another year as town moderator, as was Jacqueline Sullivan for town treasurer. Newcomer Faith Gong won a three-year term as Ilsley Library trustee.

In a separate ballot, Middlebury residents Victoria Jette, James Malcolm and Mary Gill had no competition for at-large, threeyear terms on the recently unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) board.

For the first time in many decades, Middlebury residents did not decide a local school budget on their town meeting day. They — along with other voters in the newly unified ACSD — instead fielded a K-12 budget for the entire seven-town district.

ACSD voters approved a 2017-2018 budget that calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs of all district schools.

The budget reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

Middlebury’s resulting homestead education property tax rate is projected to increase from the current $1.81 per $100 in property value to $1.84, according to the ACSD budget documents.

★ Monkton ★ MONKTON — After lively discussion over several articles, Monkton residents passed as proposed all articles that were voted on the floor of town meeting Saturday morning. This is Monkton’s second year holding town meeting on Saturday, with voting for town officers and the school budgets taking place by Australian ballot on Town Meeting Day. Citizens approved $1,398,132 in overall town spending, including: • $887,716 for highway expenses.

• $320,265 for salaries and general expenses.

• $60,000 toward the Tax Stabilization Fund.

• $35,000 for the Agricultural and Natural Areas Fund.

• $30,000 for the Highway Capital Equipment Fund.

• $23,650 for the Russell Memorial Library.

Voters also approved the creation of a new Reserve Fund, beginning with $40,000 this year, to go toward building a new town hall. Discussion around this article also included the creation of a building committee that would investigate the need for (See Monkton Page 15A)

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 15A

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Bristol

Monkton

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Town Meeting Results Shoreham

Hancock

★

FERRISBURGH RESIDENT ART Cohn voices his opinion during town meeting in the Ferrisburgh Central School gymnasium Saturday morning.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

(Monkton continued from Page 14A) new structures and possibly consider options for design, placement and construction.

Voters also approved a spending limit of $185,000 for a new tandem dump truck equipped for winter road maintenance, with funds to be taken from the Highway Capital Equipment Fund.

Toward the close of town meeting Saturday, the gathering recognized Wayne Preston, Bruce Cassidy and Thea Gaudette for their extensive service to the town. Preston recently retired after 43 years as Monkton’s road commissioner. Cassidy recently retired after working on the road crew since 1994. Gaudette has served Monkton on the Development Review Board, Planning Commission, Addison County Regional Planning Commission and on the Transportation Advisory Council and was twice awarded the ACRPC’s Bertha Hanson Distinguished Service Award.

Voting on Town Meeting Day by Australian ballot, Monkton voters approved the $2,653,500 Monkton Central School budget, 193-139.

Voters throughout the five towns, including Monkton, approved the $12,261,839 Mount Abraham Union High School spending plan, 1,333 to 796, with ballots from the five towns that sent students to Mount Abe commingled.

There were no contested elections on this year’s ballot.

Incumbents returned to office include Sharon Gomez, town

clerk; William Joos, town treasurer and delinquent tax collector; John McNerney and Anne Layn, selectboard; Marikate Kelley and Kristin Blanchette, school board.

Elected for the first time were John C. Brace to the planning commission and Melanie Cote and Jo-Anne Wisniowski as Russell Memorial Library trustees.

Still unfilled are one position for Monkton Central School director and positions for grand juror and town agent.

★New Haven★ NEW HAVEN — On Town Meeting Day, New Haven voters approved one of the state’s first town plans crafted to win “substantial deference” in actions before the Public Service Board.

The town’s energy plan (40 pages of the 119-page town plan) must now go before the Department of Public Service, which will decide whether the energy plan meets the “substantial deference” criteria. As state law is written, this should give New Haven a greater say in whether and under what conditions solar and wind energy projects are sited in town.

In Australian ballot voting, Taborri Bruhl defeated Jon Christiano, 262 votes to 219, for a three-year term on the New Haven selectboard.

Incumbent Selectman Steve Dupoise reclaimed his seat unopposed.

Other town officials elected unopposed included Phyllis Smith,

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Beeman school director; Debra Ash, auditor; Tim Bouton, town agent; and Michaela Granstrom and Kate Selby, library trustees.

A Mount Abe school director position remains unfilled.

New Haven votes all town meeting articles by Australian ballot, so all questions were decided on Town Meeting Day. Residents said yes to a: • Road Fund budget of $1,265,080, by a vote of 406 to 84.

• General Fund budget of $722,350, by a vote of 378 to 110.

• Beeman Elementary School budget of $1,763,830, by a vote of 331 to 163.

New Haven voters also approved a total of $24,258 for 21 area nonprofits, including: • Addison County Transit Resources, $4,850.

• Addison County Parent/Child Center, $1,800.

• Addison County Home Health and Hospice, $1,753.

• WomenSafe, $1,250.

• John W. Graham Emergency Shelter, $1,075.

Also on Town Meeting Day, New Haven together with the four other towns of the Addison Northeast Supervisory Union, approved the $12,261,839 Mount Abraham Union High School budget, 1,333 to 796, with all ballots commingled. The Mount Abe spending represents an 8.42 percent decrease from the current academic year. That budget includes $1 million to fix the aging Mount Abe building.

Middlebury

Orwell

★

ORWELL — For a third time, residents decided in a vote by Australian ballot on Tuesday not to unify Orwell’s school governance with five other Addison Rutland Supervisory Union towns.

Orwell residents rejected the merger twice last year, on April 12 and June 21. This time the margin was 219-137.

Orwell will now supervise its own middle and elementary school population until it negotiates a separate plan with the state to join a unified district. (Read the full story on Page A1.) All other towns in the district, with the exception of Fair Haven, voted to unify. A Modified Unified Union will now be formed in the towns of West Haven, Castleton, Hubbardton and Benson.

Elsewhere in Orwell voting this week, candidates for Orwell school director ran unopposed. Peter Stone will serve a one-year term and Glen Cousineau will serve a two-year term. Amy L. Roy won in a race against Andrea Ochs for a threeyear Fair Haven Union High School director position.

By voice vote, Orwell OK’d a school spending plan of $1,933,177 for 2017-2018 — a decrease from last year’s $1,942,025 of less than half a percent. The new budget represents $13,785 of spending per equalized student, a 7.58 percent increase.

Voters also passed this year’s municipal spending plan of $1,042,684, which represents a 6.5 percent increase from last year’s $978,950. Separately, residents authorized spending, not exceed $165,000, for a new Emergency Response Vehicle.

Orwell residents voted on several contested races for town office by Australian ballot. Thomas Audet defeated Daniel Redondo to fill the remaining 1 year on the term of Selectman Bob Fields, who was reelected to a two-year term last year but died in a car crash in December.

In uncontested races, winners

Brandon

Cornwall Ferrisburgh

included: Roland “Ted” Simmonds, 3-year term on selectboard; Dave Larsen, 2-year term on selectboard; Betty Walker, 1 year as town clerk; Cheryl Tudhope, 3-years, lister; Louis Hall, first constable; Allen Alger, second constable; Regina Charron, Joan Ousterhaudt and Kenneth Van Hazinga, library trustees.

★

Panton

★

PANTON — Panton residents on Tuesday made some adjustments to proposed town spending at town meeting, where they also chose a new selectwoman.

In Australian balloting overall Addison Northwest School District voters backed the first-ever proposed unified union budget, but Panton voted against by a slim margin.

Panton voters also nominated and elected from the floor of town meeting for the selectboard Teresa Smith, who will serve the remainder of a one-year term vacated by Beth

TOM BORCHERT, WALTHAM’S representative to the Addison Northwest School District unified board, stands and speaks at Waltham’s annual town meeting Monday night.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Ripton Leicester New Haven

Tarallo, who resigned. Incumbent Zach Weaver, originally appointed to replace Tarallo, agreed to serve a longer term, according to board Chairman Howard Hall.

Vergennes-Panton Water Commissioner Meddy Perry was also returned to office, as was Vergennes Union Elementary School director Jason Fearon, who will see limited duties until that board dissolves at the end of 2017.

Residents backed the selectboard proposal of a $647,400 for the 20172018 fiscal year budget to fund town government, maintain town buildings and take care of town roads. It contains an increase of about $4,000 — or less than 1 percent — over this year’s budget.

Residents voted in some adjustments to capital appropriations requested by the board, however.

They backed $20,000 each for highway department capital equipment and capital project funds and $2,000 each for the highway department truck/equipment tire, reappraisal, and digital/IT funds, but added $23,000 to the board’s $15,000 proposal for the Town Hall Restoration Fund. That money came from a surplus from the 2015-2016 fiscal year that Hall said was largely due to the mild winter.

Residents also backed the transfer of $55,000 from that year-end surplus to the Highway Capital Equipment Fund, but voted down the selectboard’s proposed transfer of another $10,856 from that undesignated fund balance to the Rainy Day Fund. Instead, they voted to designated $10,404 to lower 20172018 property tax bills.

Town voters approved moving $15,000 received from Green Mountain Power in 2016 from the general fund to the Town Hall Restoration Fund to be used to restore and upgrade Panton Town Hall, making a total addition to that fund of $53,000, Hall said.

Overall, ANWSD residents backed the proposed first-ever unified union budget of $21,116,289 by 924-699.

In Panton the vote ran against, 51(See Panton Page 16A)

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(Panton continued from Page 15A) 48, a plan that will support the four ANWSD schools and its central office, plus the district’s share of the Hannaford Career Center budget.

Panton residents joined their peers in other ANWSD towns in supporting the creation of a $100,000 capital improvement fund by a margin of 1,008-608. The vote in Panton ran 60-39 in favor.

★

Ripton

★

RIPTON — Ripton residents at their annual meeting on Monday evening overwhelmingly supported a fiscal year 2018 general fund budget of $250,947 and a highway spending plan of $323,600.

That combined $574,547 request was slightly less than the combined $576,701 Ripton voters approved last year, also by voice vote.

Residents on Monday also agreed to: • Apply any surplus from the fiscal year 2015-2016 general fund budget to the town’s building fund.

• Earmark $40,000 to the Ripton Volunteer Fire Department and First Response Department.

• Appropriate $13,000 for the Ripton Cemetery Commission.

• Give a combined total of $21,266 to a variety of Addison County social service organizations.

For the first time in many decades, Ripton residents didn’t field a local school budget on their town meeting day. They — along with other voters in the newly unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) — instead decided a K-12 budget for the entire seven-town district.

The proposed ACSD budget for 2017-2018 calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs of all district schools. The budget reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a

PANTON RESIDENTS FILL their town hall on Town Meeting Day.

0.6-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

Ripton’s new homestead education property tax rate is projected to decline from the current $1.92 per $100 in property value to $1.802 as a result of the unified budget, according to the ACSD budget documents.

There were no contested elections in Ripton this year. Unopposed candidates earning the nod in Australian ballot voting on Tuesday included Laureen Cox, three years, selectboard; Tim Hanson, one year,

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moderator; Alison Joseph Dickinson, one year, town clerk; Carolyn Smith, one year, town treasurer; Perry Hanson, local school director, 10 months; and Jerome Shedd, UD-3 school director, 10 months.

★ Salisbury ★ SALISBURY — Salisbury residents on Town Meeting Day approved all the money items on their ballot and filled several municipal and school board positions.

Residents voted 138-26 in favor of the proposed 2017-2018 general fund budget of $218,019, up from the $200,073 spending plan voters approved last year. They OK’d the proposed highway budget of $466,004 by a 126-38 tally. The highway budget is up from the $444,494 authorized last year.

In other Town Meeting Day action, Salisbury residents voted: • 106 to 57 in favor of spending $7,900 to conduct a perimeter survey of the entire western portion of the municipal forest, including the dogleg roadway leading to Plains Road.

• 152-12 in favor of allocating $36,000 to support the Salisbury Volunteer Fire Department.

• 128 to 35 in support of spending $19,000 to assist the Lake Dunmore/ Fern Lake Association Milfoil Prevention Program.

• To approve a combined total of

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

$18,585 for various Addison County social service agencies.

The first ever Saturday afternoon town meeting was held on March 4.

There were 87 people attending and most stayed for a potluck supper afterwards. For the first time in many decades, Salisbury residents did not decide a local elementary school budget at their annual school meeting. They — along with other voters in the newly unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) — instead decided a K-12 budget for the entire seven-town district.

The proposed ACSD budget for 2017-2018 called for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs of all district schools. The budget reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

Salisbury’s resulting homestead education property tax rate is projected to decline from the current $1.73 per $100 in property value to $1.632, according to the ACSD budget documents.

Running unopposed for local offices this year were Martha Sullivan, three years, selectboard; Tom Scanlon, two years, selectboard; Patrick J. Dunn, one year, selectboard; Susan Scott, one year, town clerk; and Mindy Goodrich, one year, collector of delinquent taxes.

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Resident Jennifer Nuceder was also unopposed in her bid for a three-year term on the ACSD board. That board will eventually supplant all of the local school boards in the now-unified district.

In the meantime, Salisbury had no takers for an abbreviated 10-month term for both its local school board and the UD-3 school board. Wayne Smith ran a successful write-in campaign (40 tallies) for a one-year term as moderator. Jay Torrey ran a successful write-in campaign for first constable. There were no takers for two years as lister; and terms of three years and two years as auditor; and one-year as town constable.

★Shoreham★ SHOREHAM — Shoreham residents at their town meeting decided to borrow $140,000 over five years to finance a 2017 Western Star Truck, and agreed to consider the sale of a 0.75-acre, town-owned lot to generate more money for a key reserve fund.

The parcel in question is located south of the former Newton Academy.

It has access to municipal water and wastewater services, thereby enhancing its value as a building lot. Proceeds from the sale would be placed into the town’s Building and Grounds Repair Reserve Fund.

Residents OK’d a 2017-2018 local highway budget of $678,454, down slightly from the current spending plan of $681,890. They also endorsed a general fund budget request of $287,117, which is almost level with this year’s budget of $287,479.

In other town meeting action, Shoreham residents: • Created a Sand and Salt Shed Reserve Fund, with an initial $15,000 in seed money.

• Created a Shoreham First Response Emergency Vehicle Fund, seeded with, $10,000.

• Agreed to spend a combined total of $20,393 for various social services agencies that serve Shoreham residents.

Residents, however, tabled articles seeking $10,000 from the town’s fund balance to be placed into the Building and Grounds Repair Fund; $10,516 in fund balance for the Fire and Rescue Vehicles Equipment Reserve Fund; and $20,000 from the general fund for the town’s Highway

Ripton Leicester New Haven

Equipment Reserve Fund.

For the first time in many decades, Shoreham residents did not field a local school budget on their town meeting day. They — along with other voters in the newly unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) — instead decided a K-12 budget for the entire seven-town district.

The proposed ACSD budget for 2017-2018 calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs for all of all district schools. The budget reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

Shoreham’s resulting homestead education property tax rate is projected to decline from the current $1.66 per $100 in property value to $1.60, according to the ACSD budget documents.

There were no contested elections in Shoreham this year. Those running unopposed included Karen Shackett, one year, selectboard; Will Stevens, one year, selectboard; Kathleen Brisson, one year, treasurer; and Will Stevens, one year, town moderator.

Several elected positions on the ballot did not draw any takers, including a three-year term on the selectboard and three, 10-month terms on the local school board.

★Starksboro★ STARKSBORO — Starksboro voted in December to increase its selectboard from three to five persons. So on Town Meeting Day, residents, voting by Australian ballot, elected two new selectboard members and also returned an incumbent to the selectboard. Koran Cousino, Keegan Tierney and returning selectman Peter Marsh will join incumbents Susan Jefferies and Tony Porter on Starksboro’s newly expanded selectboard.

Cousino defeated Jeff Dunham, 308 to 63, for a new one-year seat.

Marsh defeated Dan Baker, 102 to 270, for a two-year seat. And Tierney ran unchallenged for a three-year term on the Starksboro selectboard.

Reached the day before elections, selectboard Chair Susan Jefferies said the board was “happy to see so many people running” for the new positions, especially because many had doubted that the town would be able to field enough candidates to fill the new positions.

Starksboro had no other contested races. Officials elected unopposed included incumbents Louis DuPont for Robinson school director, Dan Dubenetsky for town and school moderator, and Judith Kessler and Chris Runcie for library trustee.

Several positions remain unfilled including one position for school director, positions for first and second constable, and one position for auditor; the selectboard could fill those, Also on Town Meeting Day, Starksboro together with the other four towns of the Addison Northeast Supervisory Union approved the $12,261,839 Mount Abraham Union High School spending plan, 1,333 to 796, with all ballots commingled.

The Mount Abe spending represents an 8.42 percent decrease from the current academic year. That budget includes $1 million to fix the aging Mount Abe building.

Starksboro decided all other matters from the floor of town meeting this past Saturday, March 4.

All articles voted at Saturday’s meeting passed as proposed with one exception: the article stating the due date for property taxes. The statement “Taxes may be paid in (See Starksboro Page 17A)

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 17A

Salisbury Vergennes Granville Addison Orwell Panton Bridport Whiting Lincoln Starksboro

Bristol

Monkton

Waltham

Weybridge

Town Meeting Results Shoreham

Hancock

Middlebury

Brandon

Cornwall Ferrisburgh

$30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

That budget passed overwhelmingly.

Weybridge’s homestead education property tax rate is projected to decline from the current $1.94 per $100 in property value to $1.76, according to the ACSD budget documents.

Officials picked in uncontested elections included Donald Mason, three years, selectboard; Spencer Putnam, one year, town moderator; Joan Jordan, five years, library trustee; and Jamie Northrup and Eric Bowdish for 10-month terms on the local elementary school board.

★ Whiting ★

FERRISBURGH RESIDENTS MAKE their opinions known by a show of hands during a standing-room-only town meeting Saturday morning.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

(Starksboro Continued from Page 16A) installments on Aug. 1, Sept. 1, and Nov. 1, 2017” was struck from article 11 after Starksboro Treasurer Celine Coons explained that this provision had led to a series of administrative headaches when several big mortgage companies didn’t automatically pay subsequent outstanding installments.

Jefferies noted that even without that wording, the town would continue to accept payments from persons wishing to pay all or part of their property taxes early.

At Saturday’s meeting, Starksboro residents approved a general fund spending plan of $1,065,911. The Starksboro Public Library was funded at $27,450.

Voters authorized the selectboard to borrow up to $290,000 to purchase a new tanker. The loan would be repaid from the Fire Equipment Reserve Fund. Jefferies explained that the new tanker would have greater capacity, be non-rusting and have a heater to prevent pipes from freezing so that it could work even in sub-zero weather.

The current tanker was purchased in 1986, Jefferies said.

Voters agreed to pay $44,653 into the Fire Equipment Reserve fund and $88,849 into the Road Equipment Reserve fund; they also created a new cash reserve for paving and authorized $40,000 to go into this new fund.

Six in-town agencies were allotted a total of $40,925, including payments to: • Starksboro Volunteer Fire Department, $22,000.

• Starksboro First Response, $9,500.

• Starksboro Cooperative Preschool, $4,500.

• Robinson Mentoring Program, $2,000.

Twenty-five out-of-town agencies were allotted a total of $29,588.

Also on Saturday, Starksboro voters approved the Robinson Elementary School budget from the floor for the last time. Jefferies said that the $2,721,254 elementary school spending plan passed handily and that most discussion centered around what changes to expect in the upcoming year as schools in the five towns unify into one school district.

Next year spending for all ANeSU elementary schools will be voted on by Australian ballot as part of a single ANESD district-wide budget.

ANESD becomes effective July 1, 2018.

★Vergennes★ VERGENNES — The race on Tuesday for Vergennes mayor between two-term incumbent Bill Benton and former three-term mayor Mike Daniels went to Daniels, 270265, in turnout of about 31 percent (See story, Page 1A).

No other races were contested.

Incumbent Vergennes City Council members Lowell Bertrand, Jeff Fritz and Mark Koenig won re-election in March without opposition, as did candidates for Vergennes-Panton water commissioner, lister and auditor.

The members of the Addison Northwest School District board that

will assume control of a unified union on July 1 were chosen in March 2016, but the boards that are now operating the supervisory union will still operate until the end of the year.

Chris Cousino won re-election to the Vergennes Union High School board, as did Sue Rakowski for the Vergennes Union Elementary School board.

Residents supported all charitable contributions on the Tuesday ballot.

Vergennes residents do not weigh in on the city budget; the city council will craft the 2017-2018 budget in June and set the city’s municipal tax rate at that time.

Vergennes residents supported the Addison Northwest School District proposed first-ever unified union budget of $21,116,289, which passed overall, 924-699. It will support the four ANWSD schools and its central office, plus the district’s share of the Hannaford Career Center budget. The margin in Vergennes was 303-239.

Vergennes residents also joined their peers in other ANWSD towns in supporting the creation of a $100,000 capital improvement fund by an overall margin of 1,008-608. The vote in Vergennes ran 303-239 in favor.

★ Waltham ★ WALTHAM — Waltham residents at town meeting approved the town’s first 12-month fiscal-year budget, one that will run from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018, and returned several incumbents to office. In Australian balloting on Tuesday, Waltham voters backed Addison Northwest School District spending.

Waltham’s current budget is serving as a transition to fiscal year spending and spans 18 months, beginning on Jan. 1 2016 and running through June 30 of this year.

Voters backed from the floor of Monday’s meeting the Waltham selectboard 12-month proposals of $106,349 of general fund/ administrative spending and $147,165 to take care of town roads.

In separately warned articles, residents also backed the board’s requests to use $23,000 of a projected fiscal year-end surplus to offset taxes, and another $90,000 of that surplus to dedicate to a capital reserve fund.

Of that $90,000, voters specified they wanted to put $5,000 into a building and maintenance fund, $15,000 into highway reserve fund, and $70,000 into a capital reserve fund.

Residents also backed the Bixby Library request of a per capita increase of support from area towns to $22 from $18.94. In Waltham, that translated to a request for $10,962 for the coming year.

Citizens also supported $3,809 in donations to nonprofits that serve Waltham and the county, an amount unchanged from a year ago.

From the floor of town meeting, Selectman Michael Grace, Town Clerk Mary Ann Castimore and Treasurer Lucille Evarts were among those re-elected to their posts.

Also supported was an article with two measures to create leniency for taxpayers who are not too late in submitting payments. One reduced the interest penalty from 8 to 2

percent if payments are a week or less late, and the other said the town would accept postmarks as a valid payment date.

Overall, ANWSD residents backed the proposed first-ever unified union budget of $21,116,289 by 924-699.

In Waltham the vote ran in favor, 56-30, of a plan that will support the four ANWSD schools and its central office, plus the district’s share of the Hannaford Career Center budget.

Waltham residents also joined their peers in other ANWSD towns in supporting the creation of a $100,000 capital improvement fund by an overall margin of 1,008-608. The vote in Waltham ran 63-23 in favor.

★Weybridge★ WEYBRIDGE — Weybridge residents on Town Meeting Day elected a new selectboard member and passed all of the money items on their warning.

Alix O’Meara bested T. Charles Jordan, 137-38, in the race for a twoyear term on the selectboard. It was the only contested race on this year’s ballot.

Citizens attending Weybridge’s annual gathering on Monday passed, by resounding voice votes, their proposed general fund budget of $126,358 and the proposed highway budget of $500,119.

Also garnering support by voice vote was the selectboard’s request to borrow up to $50,000 over five years toward the purchase of a new, one-ton truck.

In other town meeting action, Weybridge residents supported: • $25,000 for the local fire department.

• $13,000 to subsidize the local volunteer recycling program.

• A combined total of $23,575 for various Addison County social service programs.

For the first time in many decades, Weybridge residents did not vote on a local school budget on their town meeting day. They — along with other voters in the newly unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) — instead decided a K-12 budget for the entire seven-town district.

The proposed ACSD budget for 2017-2018 calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs for all district schools. The budget reflects

WHITING — Residents of Whiting who gathered in town hall Tuesday evening for town meeting approved a municipal spending plan that featured an increase in the amount needed to be raised by taxes, but the most closely contested question of the night was who would serve the small town as its delinquent tax collector. In the only paper ballot vote at the meeting, town auditor Rani Fallon defeated incumbent Marilyn Chicoine, 19-17, for the tax collector job. So that there won’t be a conflict between the new post and the auditor’s duties, Fallon had to resign as auditor. With no replacement nominated, the selectboard will appoint someone to serve as auditor until next year’s town meeting.

Whiting Town Clerk Gail Quenneville said it looks like next Tuesday evening’s town meeting could be short and sweet, but there will be several important decisions made and discussions had at the meeting, which starts at 7 p.m. at Whiting Town Hall.

Residents also OK’d the $351,923 town spending plan, as proposed.

It will require raising $227,941 in taxes. The spending proposal represents a 3.6 percent decline from the figure approved last year but the amount to be raised from taxes would rise $65,492, or about 40 percent.

Other town officials nominated and elected from the floor of Tuesday’s town meeting included Selectman Steve Quenneville, who was re-elected to a three-year term.

Tara Trudo, who had been appointed as a selectboard member, was elected on Tuesday to fill the last two years of a three-year term on the board.

In other elections, Paul Quesnel was tapped as town juror and Heather Bouchard elected town agent.

Town Clerk and Town Treasurer

Ripton Leicester New Haven

Gail Quenneville was re-elected to three-year terms for each post.

Elizabeth Curran, who came on the short end of a race for town moderator last year, this year was elected to a one-year-term as moderator; Quenneville said she did a nice job leading the meeting Tuesday.

The selectboard led a discussion of a possible ordinance that would allow ATVs on secondary and tertiary roads.

In discussion about what to do with the structural problems at the original fire department building, it was it was suggested that if it was replaced, a new building could include an extra bay for the town truck and payloader.

Resident Randy Kritkausky asked that the town support the following statement: “The town of Whiting would like to express its appreciation for the work that those with temporary and ambiguous work status provide for our region’s farms, orchards and the hospitality industry.

We encourage Vermont state officials to do whatever is possible, within the bounds of the law, to support these workers.” In a non-binding vote, the town approved the statement.

Lastly, Erin Morrison talked at town meeting about the “Lets Grow Kids” movement, encouraging quality and affordable childcare, as well as supporting childcare workers with a living wage. There was a Let’s Grow Kids petition offered to sign after the meeting.

Via Australian ballot on Tuesday, residents weighed in on the Otter Valley Unified Union School District budget and elected three at-large members of the OVUUSD school board. Voters in the school district, which includes Whiting, Goshen, Leicester, Brandon, Sudbury and Pittsford, a $19,772,608 spending plan, 635-438. The plan represents $14,708 per equalized student, a 1.4 percent increase from the 2016 fiscal year.

In the only contested race for school board, Barbara Ebbing of Brandon won a seat over Eileen Guyette of Pittsford, 567-413.

Ebbing will finish the remaining two years on a three-year seat; plus Emily Nelson and Matt Philo both won election to fill two three-year seats.

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PAGE 18A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

By the way (Continued from Page 1A) that you will be on time for your first appointment on Sunday.

Daylight savings time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday.

A local woman stopped in at the Independent this week on her way to the sheriff’s department to report a scam that went beyond the usual dialing-for-dollars scheme.

The woman, who understandably didn’t want us to publish her name, received a letter sent through the U.S. mail — stamp on the envelope and everything — telling her she had won the “American Mega Million Lottery Sweepstakes” and it included a very realistic looking bank check for $6,560.

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The check was nominally to cover taxes, insurance etc. for a $350,000 prize. She only had to fill out a claim form and call Josh Parker, the “claims manager,” at a Toronto-area phone number in order to get a representative to personally deliver the balance of the prize. Our friend was skeptical and wanted to warn others in the area, particularly older neighbors. She had never heard of the sweepstakes, her name was not on the claim letter, it increased the sense of urgency with words like “Final Notice,” and although the check looked real, the letter looked like a decent photocopy and the envelope had her name and address on it but no other identifying marks. Her message to all of us was clear: If it seems too good to be true it probably is, don’t give out personal information to someone who reaches out to you unbidden, ask a friend of family member before pursuing any prize, and don’t let someone force you to do something you feel funny about doing.

Next Tuesday, March 14, is recognized by number lovers as “Pi Day,” because if you render the date as month-day using numbers — 3-14 — it is the same as the first digits of the number “pi” — 3.1415926535. In recognition of Pi Day, American Flatbread restaurant in Middlebury will host a benefit bake for Otter Creek Child Center. For each pizza pie the business sells that day it will donate $3 to the Middlebury daycare center.

Speaking of comestibles for charity, Two Brothers Tavern has an offer coming up this Saturday during the Vermont Chili Fest. Between 1 and 4 p.m., which will find thousands of people out on Middlebury’s Main Street for the festival. Two Brothers will donate a portion of its proceeds to Middlebury College’s Relay for Life, which is an annual event that raises money for cancer research and patient support programs. The relay organizers are asking people to consider popping in to Two Bros for some appetizers and a drink or two and to support a great cause.

POLICYHOLDERS’ ANNUAL MEETING AND LUNCHEON All policyholders of the Co-operative Insurance Companies are invited to the policyholders’ annual meeting and luncheon. The annual meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at 10:00 a.m., at the home office, 292 Colonial Drive, Middlebury, VT. Voting will take place on a minor change to the By-Laws which clarifies membership and voting rights. Anson Tebbetts, Vermont’s Agriculture Secretary, will speak at the office following the meeting.

The Luncheon will take place at 12:00 p.m. at the Middlebury Inn. Please RSVP to Mary Micklas at (802) 385-1622 or mmicklas@ciui.net by Friday, March 24.

Police investigating assault at end of college protest

By GAEN MURPHREE AND JOHN S. MCCRIGHT MIDDLEBURY — The Middlebury Police Department have been brought into the investigation of the violence that ended last week’s protest at Middlebury College against controversial author Charles Murray.

Middlebury College Professor Allison Stanger’s hair was pulled and neck was injured by protesters Thursday evening as she and College Vice President for Communications Bill Burger escorted Murray to a car after his appearance at McCullough Student Center. She was treated at Porter Hospital and released.

“Police investigators are working with college officials on reconstructing the incident at Middlebury College in which Professor Stanger received injuries,” Middlebury Police Chief Tom Hanley said in a statement to the Addison Independent. “At the conclusion of this reconstruction the police will determine a course of action.”

Murray is a political scientist who has been criticized for his views on

race and intelligence. A scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, a right wing think tank, he was invited to speak on campus by a student group, the American Enterprise Institute Club. Murray’s best-selling “Coming Apart,” the intended topic of his Middlebury appearance, was described as one of the most important books of 2012 by New York Times columnist David Brooks.

He was greeted late Thursday afternoon outside McCullough Student Center by hundreds of protesters, and inside Wilson Hall, students turned their backs to him and booed when he got up to speak.

Murray was moved to another location in McCullough and the administration attempted to livestream an exchange of ideas between Murray and Stanger.

According to Burger, violence erupted as he and Stanger escorted Murray out of McCullough Student Center, sometime after 7 p.m.

According the Burger, “they were physically and violently confronted by a group of protestors.”

With help from campus safety officers, Burger said that Stanger and Murray were able to get into his car and get away, but not before “one of the demonstrators pulled Prof.

Stanger’s hair and twisted her neck.”

She wore a neck brace the next day and couldn’t teach her classes.

Burger said those involved in the incident were masked, and he believed that some were some were students and some were not.

In an account on her Facebook page, Stanger described the event: “We confronted an angry mob as we tried to exit the building. Most of the hatred was focused on Dr. Murray, but when I took his right arm both to shield him from attack and to make sure we stayed together so I could reach the car too, that’s when the hatred turned on me. One thug grabbed me by the hair and another shoved me in a different direction ... I feared for my life.”

An anonymous account published on the campus blog “Middbeat” gave a very different account of events.

“In recounting the events of Thursday night, it is essential to

emphasize that protesters did not escalate violence and had no plan of violent physical confrontation,” the statement said. When asked by the Independent to identify themselves, the anonymous bloggers declined.

Hanley said his department had talked with college officials before Murray’s arrival on campus and agreed that town police would not get involved unless someone was hurt or there was property damage, neither of which happened during the bulk of the afternoon’s activities.

“It was their event and we stayed out,” Hanley said.

Nevertheless, there was a plainclothes Middlebury town police officer on campus during the principle protest, but the officer left before the violence began, Hanley said.

As of Monday, Hanley and the Middlebury town police were still awaiting a report from the college of a crime to investigate. He said his department had reached out to college officials and to Stanger. He issued the statement about reconstructing the events on Wednesday afternoon.

committee, said of the capital improvements budget increase. She said the additional $77,994 would help pay for fixes to the municipal pool and sidewalks, along with an effort to make older town buildings more energy efficient. The money will also help Middlebury prepare for the anticipated emerald ash borer, a beetle that destroys ash trees.

The selectboard asked representatives of four local human services agencies to explain how they are spending the annual appropriation they receive from Middlebury taxpayers through the town budget.

Jessica Danyow of Homeward Bound; Sherry Greifzu of Addison County Home Health & Hospice; Barbara Doyle-Wilch of the Counseling Service of Addison County; and Margaret Clerkin of Elderly Services, Inc., each gave brief presentations of what services their agencies deliver to Middlebury taxpayers. Citizens approved funding for those agencies within the town’s budget.

Residents in Australian ballot voting Tuesday agreed to add two new agencies to the list of agencies they give annual funding. They voted 637 to 114 in favor of Addison County Restorative Justice Services’ request for $2,500, and 626 to 127 in favor of the Addison County River Watch Collaborative’s request for $1,200.

In other Australian ballot voting on Tuesday, residents: • Agreed, by a tally of 476 to 256, to spend $30,620 to re-establish the town’s police canine program.

Middlebury police Chief Tom Hanley said the new dog would provide “another set of eyes and ears” for officers on patrol. A dog would be able to assist in searches for missing persons and suspects, and could help defuse confrontations with potentially violent offenders without having to use pepper spray or Tasers, Hanley explained.

The initial outlay of $30,620 will help police acquire the dog and modify a cruiser to accommodate the animal — likely to be a Belgian Malinois. With the dog and cruiser space in hand, Hanley said the canine program request would likely drop to around $10,000 next year.

• Decided, by a count of 530 to 211, to raise selectboard members’ annual stipend from the current $1,500 to $1,800, along with a bump from $2,500 to $3,200 for the board chairperson.

Resident Ross Conrad petitioned the article. He said the increase would symbolically recognize the many hours board members spend on town business, away from their respective families and jobs.

• Decided a series of uncontested local elections. Incumbent selectboard members Brian Carpenter and Laura Asermily won three-year terms.

Incumbent ID-4 board members Amy Graham, Victoria Jette and Lorraine Morse won additional terms of 10 months. James Douglas was returned to another year as town moderator, as was Jacqueline Sullivan for town treasurer. Faith Gong won a threeyear term as Ilsley Library trustee.

In a separate ballot, Middlebury residents Victoria Jette, James Malcolm and Mary Gill had no competition for at-large, three-year terms on the recently unified Addison Central School District (ACSD) board.

Residents of the ACSD-member towns of Bridport, Cornwall, Middlebury, Ripton, Salisbury, Shoreham and Weybridge collectively voted in favor of a combined, K-12 budget for the 2017-2018 academic year (see related story). It calls for approximately $37.7 million in spending to cover the combined operating costs for all district schools.

It reflects $30,428,802 in net, local education spending, which represents a 0.60-percent decrease compared to this year, according to ACSD officials.

As usual, town meeting provided a venue for town officials to discuss other issues not up for a vote. This included an update on a $52 million plan to replace the Merchants Row and Main Street rail bridges with a concrete tunnel. As recently reported by the Addison Independent, the estimated four-year project is on hold, pending an Environmental Assessment of the construction zone adjacent to the Otter Creek.

Meanwhile, a local attorney has asked the town to immediately begin replacing the bridges in light of their deteriorating state. Workers this week placed steel plating over a section of the Merchants Row span on which a new hole was recently discovered.

Carpenter said he and his colleagues are hoping the Environmental Assessment doesn’t reveal any major concerns, which would allow construction to begin in 2018. He questioned project opponents’ assertion that the bridges could be replaced for $5.2 million. That figure, he said, only reflected materials. He argued the project — which he said wouldn’t remedy drainage problems on the track or meet height allowances requested by the state — would cost far more than $5.2 million, when one factors in labor, engineering and other related expenses.

Carpenter claimed the opponents’ preferred project could amount to “considerably more” than the Cross Street Bridge, which had a price tag of around $16 million.

One of the opponents of the current project is resident Bruce Hiland, a former owner of the Battell Block.

He gave the following reaction to Carpenter’s comments: “Replacing the bridges as soon as possible will not cost $16 million and, to state the obvious, it has to be done,” he said. “And even that number is dramatically less than VTrans’ last guess of $52 million. It is high time for the town and state to solve Middlebury’s problem.”

Meanwhile, Carpenter said the Vermont Agency of Transportation would conduct quarterly inspections of the two bridges and would move two temporary bridges into place if the current spans are deemed unsafe.

“The biggest concern right now is a chunk of concrete dropping into the exhaust (of a train) and taking out an engine,” Carpenter said.

He said the southern fascia of both bridges is showing the most deterioration, at this point. “We are currently at a point where the railings are starting to rust off,” he said.

“We are focused on (the project),” he added. “We are actively engaged.”

Carpenter said he was confident Vermont Railway would strike a deal that would allow for a 10-week train detour around Middlebury.

Officials also confirmed an upcoming shift in Middlebury’s economic development strategy. The town will no longer raise a penny on its tax rate to help bankroll a Middlebury Business Development Fund. The program was approved by voters in 2012, but has not yet yielded the new business start-ups the selectboard had hoped for. Middlebury College and the business community have also helped fund the program, which will now sunset this June. A committee led by Selectwoman Heather Seeley will work on an alternative approach for creating jobs and supporting businesses in Middlebury.

Residents at the annual gathering also thanked outgoing Selectwoman Donna Donahue for her service; presented martial arts instructor Kellie Thomas with the Bob Collins Award for outstanding volunteerism in education; and dedicated the 2016 annual report to longtime civic volunteer Walter Richard Calhoun.

Middlebury (Continued from Page 1A) memory, more than 150 citizens instead gathered in the Middlebury Union High School auditorium for Monday’s annual meeting, moderated by a familiar face: former Gov. James Douglas. Douglas has presided over Middlebury’s town meeting for the past three decades.

This year’s warning was devoid of controversy: no town-gown deals, no proposed bond issues, and no contested local elections. Few questions and resounding voice votes followed town officials’ brief explanations of the two financial requests put to voters on Monday evening: The proposed town budget and a proposal to take out a five-year loan for up to $106,000 to replace two police cruisers and buy a new wood chipper for the Public Works Department.

The proposed budget of $10,321,456 reflects an increase of $198,791 — or 2 percent — in expenses, compared to the current year. It also reflects a bump of 2.2 percent ($155,879) in the tax affecting portion of the spending plan. Middlebury Town Manager Kathleen Ramsay cited an increase of $55,833 in employee wages and benefits, and a $77,994 increase in the fiscal year 2018 capital improvement budget request, as being the main drivers behind the 2-percent increase.

But thanks to a 1.7-percent increase in Middlebury’s grand list and use of accumulated surplus funds, the budget passed by voters on Monday will result in a decrease of approximately half a penny on the municipal tax rate.

The new tax rate will be 97.3 cents.

Officials said the newly voted municipal budget maintains current services and allows the town to catch up on some deferred maintenance.

“The theme was, ‘Taking care of what we have,’” Selectwoman Susan Shashok, chairwoman of Middlebury’s infrastructure

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 19A

Mayor

Coolidges

(Continued from Page 1A) According to Daniels, they pledged mutual support.

No matter who won or lost we’re creating a win-win situation,” Daniels said. “Bill and I already discussed if either one of us would have won we were going to try and support one another. So the things he had going don’t get lost, and we’ll try to make Vergennes a better place.”

Daniels said when he announced he believed Benton was doing a good job as mayor, and one reason he started getting signatures for his petition was because he thought Benton might step down.

“I had heard a rumor that he wasn’t going to run,” he said.

Daniels had no major theories why the tight contest might have tilted his way, but said some residents might have remembered the council’s support of a proposed East Street toddler park during Benton’s tenure, backing that came despite a Town Meeting Day advisory vote against it.

“The council didn’t listen to the voters, and I don’t know if that had an impact,” he said.

Daniels retired in 2013 from a management position with the Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services and has since kept busy with a variety of part-time jobs and volunteer projects while remaining active in the Vergennes Fire Department.

Before he decided to run, he also conferred lengthily with his wife, Judi.

“She’s my rock. She stands behind me. She works alongside me.

(Continued from Page 1A) but moved to Brandon and grew up here. Both husband and wife attended Castleton State College, where they earned teaching degrees. They both taught first at the Seminary Hill School and then at the Neshobe Elementary School.

Jane was an elementary teacher and Bud taught science and was then principal at Seminary Hill and at Neshobe for decades.

They have always been very involved in the community. As selectboard Chair Doug Bailey said in his introduction, “Bud has been a justice of the peace forever.”

The Coolidges are active in the Forest Dale Wesleyan Church, the Brandon Senior Center and the Brandon Area Food Shelf.

Their son Brian is a Brandon selectman.

When it was Bud’s turn to speak, he warned those still standing that he had more to say.

“I think you should probably sit down,” he said, always the principal, and everyone sat down.

He then took a moment, clearly he was filled with emotion.

“Brandon is hometown,” he said.

He stifled a sniffle and continued.

“This is not easy for me,” he said, his voice catching. “We can only thank the Lord for all that Brandon means to us. We love it and we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Bud said that over the years, friends have tried to convince the couple to move to a warmer climate.

“No, Brandon is where we belong,” he said. “The school

BILL BENTON

MIKE DANIELS

Success doesn’t go to one person in this case,” he said.

Among his goals are making city government more responsive to residents; re-establishing the informal cracker-barrel meeting with residents that were a hallmark of his earlier tenure; encouraging attendance at the annual city meeting and at regular council meetings, possibly by changing the time of the latter, which were moved from 7 to 5:30 p.m. under Benton; looking carefully at the city tax rate; upgrading the Otter Creek basin area; and getting truck traffic out of downtown.

He would also like to involve more seniors in city affairs and community life.

“One thing I’m going to propose, and of course this will have to go through the city council to pass it, is a Vergennes senior citizen council,” he said.

During his most recent stint on the council Daniels found himself on the short end of a few 5-1 and 6-1 votes, and he wants to get off on the right foot.

“I know some of the council members and I have not always agreed on stuff when I was on,” he said. “I’m hoping to meet one on one with them and talk about our differences and either agree to disagree or see how we move on together for the next two years.”

Andy Kirkaldy may be reached at andyk@addisonindependent.com.

School News

Courtesy of Bristol Motor Speedway

County students make RIT fall dean’s list

Spring’s Coming

Brandon Reporter photo/Lee J. Kahrs

boards, the selectboard, the teachers, the churches … Certain people in this town have left a mark on my life. These people meant a lot. Jane and I hope we’ve been able to leave some sort of a mark, and not just with my paddle, with some children in this community.”

Everyone laughed, as Coolidge was a kind but firm school principal back in the day.

In closing, Coolidge had a directive for his fellow townspeople.

“We love it here and we want to stay here as long as we possibly can,” he said. “Just keep loving everybody, folks, because this is what Brandon is all about.”

And with that, the Coolidges returned to their seats amid another standing ovation.

NASHVILLE WIN A TRIP TO

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BRANDON SELECTBOARD CHAIR Doug Bailey displays this year’s town report, which features a nice dedication to long-time local educators Jane and Bud Coolidge.

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PAGE 20A — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

Orwell

Fair hearing WALTHAM TOWN MODERATOR Don Ross listens to a question during Monday night’s town meeting.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Ferrisburgh (Continued from Page 1A) Smits had said a selectboard decision to cut his hours from 40 to 35 had made it difficult to do his job, that he had saved money for the town with several contracts and innovations, that the selectboard had undermined other cost-saving ideas he proposed, and that many late payments and mistakes were not his fault, but rather that of the Ferrisburgh road foreman and other co-workers.

But professional auditors recently stated that some town accounts are not reconciled, bank deposits have not been made in a timely manner, fund balances were not recorded, and late fees have been assessed by the IRS. Long discussions at selectboard meetings were devoted to the issue, with the selectboard expressing frustration about their inability to work with an elected treasurer who did not answer to them.

Selectboard Chairwoman Loretta Lawrence said board members were

gratified by Tuesday’s results.

“I think the selectboard is very pleased. The voters have spoken and the facts speak for themselves.

Gloria will continue to do a great job,” Lawrence said. “And Deb will do a great job. This is what she does for a living.”

Lawrence said it would take time for Healey, who was on the job on Wednesday, to take care of what Lawrence called “a mess,” but she was confident Tuesday’s results would put the town on the right track.

“It’s time to move forward for the best interest of the town,” she said.

“And we feel we have two people who can do that.”

At the same time, Lawrence repeated that she likes Smits.

“He’s a nice person, but he just didn’t do the job,” she said. “We certainly wish him well in his future endeavors.”

In response to the issues surrounding the treasurer’s job, the selectboard late last year began working on the town’s first charter,

one that made both the treasurer and clerk positions appointed by and answerable to the board — thus it is possible Healey and Warden will be the last elected to the two posts.

Chairwoman Loretta Lawrence said at this past Saturday’s town meeting residents responded positively to a draft of the two-page charter. It must be voted on and approved by town residents and then by the Legislature before it takes effect.

Lawrence told the Independent previously she had been led to believe the charter could be approved this summer when the Legislature is out of session, but had since learned from Rep. Warren Van Wyck, R-Ferrisburgh, that approval would have to wait.

The selectboard has scheduled two required public hearings on the charter for April 10 and 17, and a town-wide vote on the charter must then be held within 30 days of April 10.

(Continued from Page 1A) Fair Haven had originally OK’d the school governance consolidation proposal last April.

This means that Orwell and Fair Haven will need to prove to the Vermont Agency of Education that their individual school governance plans meet the objectives of Act 46, a state law designed to encourage efficiencies and shared resources among neighboring school districts.

If they fail to make a convincing argument, the agency can place them in a unified school district.

“I do think that’s a tough case to make,” said Rep. Dave Sharpe, D-Bristol, who is one of the architects of Act 46.

Meanwhile, the communities of Castleton, West Haven, Hubbardton and Benson will be able to merge their school governance through a “Slate Valley Modified Unified Union School District.” Those four towns will receive, among other things, property tax relief during a four-year transition to unification.

That will amount to 8 cents in year one, 6 in year two, 4 in year three, and 2 in year four. They will also be able to to keep their “small schools grants” from the state. They will receive a “transition facilitation grant” of $120,000, or 5 percent of the base education amount multiplied by the new district’s average daily membership, whichever is less; the ability to keep the 3.5 percent holdharmless protection for declining enrollment (which will be eliminated in fiscal year 2021); and an exemption from the requirement to repay a portion of state construction aid upon sale of a school building.

Orwell and Fair Haven aren’t eligible for these Act 46 perks in the wake of their “no” votes. Orwell and Fair Haven could vote again on joining the four other towns if someone petitions revotes in those communities, according to Orwell resident Glen Cousineau, who chaired the ARSU’s Act 46 study committee.

“Unless there’s a petition for a revote, we will wait and let the state determine our fate,” Cousineau said.

Asked to explain Orwell’s consistent votes against the Act 46 initiative, Cousineau said “you’ve got a group that basically has drawn a line in the sand that the state is not going to tell them what to do. They

were able to rally some support to get this defeated.”

But Cousineau believes opponents might have misjudged the political landscape in Montpelier.

“Their feeling last time was that, ‘We’re going to have a new governor, we’re going to have a new education secretary, and (Act 46) is going to go away,’” Cousineau said. “But the governor (Phil Scott) is in favor of Act 46, and he has reappointed (Education Secretary) Rebecca Holcombe. This is not going away.

The Legislature is showing it has no intention of changing it much.”

Cousineau said he received an Agency of Education report last month indicating more than 50 percent of Vermont’s public school children are now served by unified school districts.

“Act 46 is not going to go away,” Cousineau said.

“It’s probably going to take the state to swing the hammer before things are going to change,” Cousineau added. “And unfortunately, the kids are the ones who lose out.”

MORE PALATABLE? Officials said the ARSU Act 46 Committee made some extra efforts this time to make the unification plan more palatable to all six towns.

For example, the panel made it tougher to close a local school within the unified district. At least 75 percent of the new Slate Valley unified board would have been required to vote for a school closing, in addition to a majority vote of the residents of the town in which the school is located. Those votes would not have been able to take place until four years after the governance merger was OK’d.

Organizers also gave the six towns equal representation (three members each) on the proposed SVUUSD board. Originally, the board was to have proportional representation based on each town’s population. This would have given a numerical advantage to the bigger communities. Orwell would have had two members in the original board setup, compared to seven for Castleton.

As non-member districts, Orwell and Fair Haven will be expected to: • Continue to operate their existing elementary district as a “Non-Member Elementary District.”

Each town will continue to elect its

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own elementary school board, vote on its elementary budget, and pay its own elementary expenses.

• Become members of two districts: It’s existing elementary school district serving pre-K through grade 8, and that of the new modified union district for grades 9-12.

• Elect its own representatives for the new MUUSD board. It should be noted that these members would only be able to vote on modified union district business relating to grades 9-12; the dissenting towns would have to recuse themselves on votes pertaining to union elementary business or building decisions.

• Pay a proportional share of expenses for students they send to the Fair Haven Union High School.

Addison Rutland Supervisory Union Superintendent Ron Ryan was disappointed with, but resigned to, the results of Tuesday’s vote.

“The Orwell voters have spoken pretty clearly that they’re not interested in this (governance merger),” Ryan said. “The hope was that they would stay with this district, but that was never a guarantee.”

Ryan added the two dissenting communities will now “have to deal with what the state comes up with down the road.”

The unification process will be on hold for Benson, Hubbardton, Castleton and West Haven until the statutory timeline for a revote on the Act 46 question has passed, according to Ryan. He said it could be May before the four towns begin to merge their school governance.

Sharpe said the Legislature is looking at some possible tweaks to Act 46, but there is no move afoot to overhaul or repeal the law.

He believes Orwell and Fair Haven might regret not joining the other Slate Valley towns.

“I think communities like Orwell will find that in the long run, it’s going to be extraordinarily difficult to run a tiny school without being part of a larger family,” Sharpe said.

“I think some of those towns around the state will end up closing their schools and giving vouchers to kids; others will decide to become part of the new larger school district. I don’t know which way Orwell will decide to go, but I suspect as time goes on … they are going to find it more and more difficult to maintain a tiny school.”

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ADDISON COUNTY INDEPENDENT

B Section

THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 2017

MATT DICKERSON

SPORTS

ALSO IN THIS SECTION:

• School News • Legal Notices

• Classifieds • Police Logs

On clean water and wild places In 1972, a few weeks before my ninth birthday, I visited Maine’s Allagash Wilderness Waterway for the first time, enjoying a multi-day wilderness fishing trip with my father.

We camped on a large pond between Umsaskis Lake and Long Lake, and explored the river from the Chase Rips all the way down to the Long Lake Dam. Though the Allagash did not have the same spectacular scenery as other rivers I would later visit in the Rockies and Alaska, over the next few years it became one of my favorite places on earth — a place I would return to over and over with my father, my brothers, and later my wife, children and friends. It is a place that has shaped my imagination.

In 2016, the Allagash celebrated the 50th anniversary of its official state of Maine designation as a “Wilderness Waterway.” In 2018 it will celebrate its 50th anniversary as a federally designated “Wild and Scenic River.”

With a significant strip of land along the shoreline thereafter protected from logging activities, road-building, and further development, the river was able to keep its beautiful and wild character, and even to restore some of what had been lost due to activities of the previous century.

That 1972 camping trip to the Allagash was the first time I viewed a night sky not impacted by a single electric light, and where I first went a full day without hearing the sound of a combustion engine. More importantly, it was also at the Allagash that I first heard the distinctive calls of the American bittern, the common loon and Wesley’s snipe. It was there I saw my first osprey, bald eagle and moose. This is when bitterns and bald eagles, along with loons and osprey and moose and many other creatures, had been extirpated from most of the rest of New England by a combination of rampant pesticide use, water pollution from a host of sources, and habitat loss.

By contrast, in 1972 the Androscoggin River flowing through the town of Bethel (seven miles from where I went to kindergarten) was listed by Time magazine as one of the 10 filthi(See Dickerson, Page 3B)

ScoreBOARD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Girls’ Hockey D-I Playoffs 3/6 #3 Rutland vs. #2 MUHS....................1-0 Girls’ Basketball D-I Playoffs 3/8 #9 MUHS at #9 Colchester..............Late D-II Playoffs 3/7 #6 Mt. Abe vs. #11 Randolph..........53-42 3/7 #7 Fairfax vs. #10 VUHS................56-36 3/7 #3 Fair Haven vs. #14 OV..............32-26 COLLEGE SPORTS Women’s Hockey NESCAC Final at Midd.

3/5 Midd. vs. Amherst ..............................4-1 Men’s Lacrosse 3/5 Midd. vs. Conn....................................8-6 3/7 Midd. vs. Endicott.............................17-7 Women’s Lacrosse 3/5 Midd. vs. Conn..................................19-4

Schedule

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Girls’ Basketball D-I Playoffs 3/10 Quarterfinal..................................7 p.m.

3/14 Semifinal at UVM............................TBA D-II Playoffs 3/10 #6 Mt. Abe at #3 Fair Haven........7 p.m.

3/13 Semifinal at Barre...................8:15 p.m.

COLLEGE SPORTS Women’s Hockey NCAA D-III Tournament 3/11 Norwich at Midd...........................3 p.m.

3/17&18 Final Four..........................Site TBA Men’s Basketball NCAA Sectional At Midd.

3/10 Midd. vs. Endicott...................7:30 p.m.

3/10 Williams vs. Susquehanna.....5:30 p.m.

3/11 Final.............................................7 p.m.

Men’s Lacrosse 3/12 Midd. at Tufts...............................6 p.m.

3/14 Midd. at St. Lawrence..................5 p.m.

3/18 Wesleyan at Midd........................2 p.m.

Women’s Lacrosse 3/12 Tufts at Midd................................2 p.m.

3/18 Midd. at Wesleyan........................ Noon Baseball 3/11 Midd. at Castleton...........................TBA Late events occurred after deadline. Spectators are advised to consult school websites for the latest schedule updates.

EAGLE JUNIOR EMMA Carter scores on a reverse layup against Randolph Tuesday night. Carter scored 30 points in Mount Abraham’s 53-42 win.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

Eagle girls turn back Randolph

Mt. Abe to face Slaters in D-II playoffs

By ANDY KIRKALDY BRISTOL — The No. 6 Mount Abraham Union High girls’ basketball team took charge of Tuesday’s first-round Division II playoff game in the first half and then held off No. 11 Randolph’s fourth-quarter rally

for a 53-42 victory.

The Eagles received 30 points and strong work on the boards from junior forward Emma Carter in improving to 13-8 vs. the 10-11 Ghosts.

Mount Abe will travel to meet No. 3 Fair Haven in a Friday quarterfinal

EAGLE JUNIOR EMMA Radler drives the lane during Tuesday’s game against Randolph. Radler scored eight points in the Eagles’ win.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

at 7 p.m. The 16-5 Slaters are the defending champs and defeated the Eagles by 37-23 back in December.

But Carter said the Eagles will be confident moving forward.

Commodore, Otter girls fall in postseason ADDISON COUNTY — In high school girls’ basketball playoff action on Tuesday Vergennes and Otter Valley bowed out in Division II action.

Middlebury (13-7) earned the No. 9 seed in Division I and was

set to take on No. 8 Colchester (13-7) on Wednesday after the deadline for this edition of the Independent. If the Tigers won they will travel to face top-seeded St. Johnsbury (19-2) on Friday at 7 p.m.

COMMODORES On Tuesday the Commodores hung with host No. 7 Fairfax for a half, trailing by just 26-20 at the break, but then the 17-4 Bullets pulled away for a 56-36 victory.

(See Wrap, Page 3B)

“We’ve just got to play defense like we did tonight and rebound like we did tonight and bring the energy,” she said.

Coach Connie LaRose said it will

be important on Friday for the Eagles to move the ball well and show poise on offense the way they did when they took their 30-20 halftime (See Eagles, Page 2B)

Rutland hangs on to upset girls’ hockey in semifinal

By ANDY KIRKALDY MIDDLEBURY — With senior goalie Carolyn Laird making 34 saves, No. 3 Rutland on Monday upset the host No. 2 Middlebury Union High School girls’ hockey team, 1-0, in a

Division I semifinal.

The 16-4-2 Raiders advanced to a Wednesday night final vs. No. 4 BFA-St. Albans (15-7), which upset three-time defending champion and (See Hockey semi, Page 2B)

Panther women skate to NESCAC crown, NCAAs next Middlebury to host Norwich Saturday

By ANDY KIRKALDY MIDDLEBURY — For the second straight winter and ninth time since the NESCAC created its postseason tournaments in 2002, the Middlebury College women’s hockey team earned the league’s playoff championship.

The No. 1 seed Panthers claimed the title on Sunday by subduing fired-up No. 5 Amherst, 4-1, in a game more competitive than the final score suggests. That win came the day after 196-2 Middlebury earned a more comfortable 4-1 semifinal victory over No. 6 Bowdoin.

As well as taking the league title with their seventh straight win and 10th in 11 games, the Panthers, ranked No. 6 in NCAA Division III, also earned NESCAC’s berth in the NCAA tournament.

The Panthers will host fourth-ranked Norwich (22-5-1) at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Middlebury defeated Norwich, 5-3, in Kenyon Arena on Jan. 31. That game triggered the 10-1 turnaround for Middlebury, which in that streak has lost only at top-ranked Plattsburgh.

And rival Plattsburgh is almost certain to await the Norwich-Middlebury winner in the Final Four, which will be held on March 17 and 18 at a site to be named.

On Saturday the 25-1-1 Cardinals will host St. Thomas (14-10-4). Plattsburgh ousted Middlebury in a compet(See Panthers, Page 2B)

PANTHER JUNIOR JANKA Hlinka breaks up a Bowdoin play during Saturday’s NESCAC semifinal game. Hlinka had two assists in Middlebury’s 4-1 win.

Independent photo/Trent Campbell

PAGE 2B — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

Eagles

Hockey semi

(Continued from Page 1B) lead on Tuesday. Carter (13 points in the first half), sophomore Jalen Cook (nine) and junior Emma Radler (six of her eight overall points) benefitted most from Mount Abe’s offensive efficiency before the break.

“I felt like the first half we accomplished what we set out to accomplish,” LaRose said. “We were getting some good quality looks. We were getting our cutters through ...

Not everything was dropping, but they were getting good looks.”

The Eagles took the lead for good by closing the first period with an 8-4 run over the final 2:40. Carter sank a tie-breaking three, one of her five from behind the arc, and converted an offensive board; Cook scored in the lane on one of junior Emma LaRose’s seven assists; and Radler scored on the break, from LaRose again, to cap the surge and make it MOUNT ABRAHAM UNION High School sophomore Jalen Cook 14-10.

In the second period Carter, Cook puts up two of her nine points and Radler teamed up for all 16 of against Randolph Tuesday night in Bristol.

Mount Abe’s points, and two late Independent photo/Trent Campbell Radler hoops, both assisted by Carter, created the Eagles’ 10-point halftime lead. At the other end, eight LaRose), and then added two free Ghosts scored, with Shea Rodham’s throws at 5:46. Carter also grabbed five and Sara Rea’s four leading the several defensive rebounds and way. blocked two shots in that stretch as In the third period Randolph Mount Abe pushed the lead to 44-32. switched from man defense to a 2-3 The Ghosts made one more run, zone and the Eagles with Emily Grady (10 simply didn’t adjust “Our team points) converting a well, turning the ball three-point play and Rishowed up to over in the period as elle Brassard and Rea many times (four) as play defense (six points apiece) hitthey had in the first tonight. That ting free throws during half and scoring only was important. a six-point surge that seven points, all by cut the lead to 44-38 at Everybody Carter.

3:49.

“Our patience, or was just But Radler hit a big lack thereof, I think helping each putback on the next that’s something that other out.

Eagle possession, and has hurt us all season,” LaRose, junior guards LaRose said. “And we Overall there Abby Mansfield and had better patience in was just good Vanessa Dykstra (who the first half, and then chemistry and combined to force nine we went away from Ghost turnovers), and energy on the that.”

Carter iced the win Fortunately, the floor.” from the free-throw Eagles also held the — Emma Carter line.

Ghosts to nine in the As well as the Eagles period, and the lead closed the game out in the final 3:30, was eight after three, 37-29.

Coach LaRose said her team will “Our team showed up to play de- need to remember how they played fense tonight. That was important,” with composure in Tuesday’s first Carter said. “Everybody was just half if they are to defeat the Slaters helping each other out. Overall there and advance to a Monday semifinal was just good chemistry and energy in Barre. on the floor.”

“Thirty-two minutes, or it’s not Late in the period the Eagles also going to happen. I think we can play pulled the ball out and forced the with them. We’ve played with almost Ghosts to abandon the zone. And everybody we’ve had a game with even though the Ghosts scored the this year,” LaRose said. “Eight lossfirst three points of the fourth quarter es, and in every one of those games I to pull within 37-32, the Eagles be- believe we were ahead at some point gan to get back on track. in the game.”

Specifically, Carter did. She drove Andy Kirkaldy may be reached at for two at 6:45, hit a three (from andyk@addisonindependent.com.

(Continued from Page 1B) top-seeded Essex, 1-0. The Raiders were making their first-ever appearance in a D-I title game, while BFA, the only team beside Essex to win a D-I crown, was seeking its first title in four years.

MUHS Co-Coach Matt Brush said after Monday’s game that the 16-51 Tigers had been expecting a battle with the Raiders after going to overtime with them twice this season, tying them in Rutland and winning, 2-1, at home on Feb. 4.

“It was a coin-flip game. Based on the other two games we had with Rutland this season it was going to come down to a one-goal game,” Brush said.

“We were hoping we would be on the other end of it.”

But he did not expect the Tigers to fail to score for the first time this season, and he credited Laird.

“We have a pretty high-powered offense,” Brush said. “Their goalie played really good tonight. She made lots of saves and timely covers-up of rebounds, and that was the difference.”

BUY PHOTOS

Email us at: photos@addisonindependent.com

The Rutland defenders also worked hard to pressure the Tigers into quick shots and to prevent them from reaching the rebounds Laird did give up.

“We had good looks, and they were just really physical on the puck and kind of snuffed out our opportunities,” Brush said.

The Raiders took the lead in the second period on a goal that came largely against the flow: The Tigers outshot them in the period, 12-4, and overall, 34-22.

But Raider forward Emma Mazzariello, in the slot, got just enough on a feed from Elizabeth Wideawake to get the puck past Tiger goalie Katie Billings at 4:56.

Billings made 21 saves and allowed just three goals in her past four games, including two playoff games and 3-1 victories over Essex and BFA during the last week of the regular season.

“She played well again tonight, made some great saves,” Brush said.

Billings made two of her best saves during a Raider third-period power play, and also got help when defender

Satchel McLaughlin blocked another bid behind her. Officials also waived off an apparent Raider goal late in the second period.

But Brush said the Tigers couldn’t catch a break at the other end of the rink.

“When you have a game like that you’ve got to have a couple good bounces. We had a couple of fortunate bounces behind our goalie that certainly went our way,” Brush said. “But we didn’t have any in our offensive zone.

Pucks were just a little bit out of reach, or rebounds from the goalie were just a couple feet away.”

Still, the Tigers put plenty of pressure on in the third period, including during two power plays — the Tigers failed to convert on six tries with an extra skater. “A couple of power-play goals surely would have made a difference,” Brush said.

Early in the period, Laird denied a McLaughlin wraparound and Andi Boe from the center point on a power play, and later stopped Tulley Hescock from the right circle after she stole the

puck. On the next power play, Kate Donahue, Anderson and McLaughlin couldn’t quite get a stick on the puck during a scramble, and Laird stopped Boe from the point again and Donahue from the left circle.

The Tigers then barely survived their penalty at 8:18, and had a chance when Anderson left the box as it expired, took a Boe pass and broke in alone on Laird. But Laird stuck out her right skate to stop the bid. Down the stretch the Tigers’ best chance came with two minute left, when Laird flashed her left pad to knock aside a screened Boe shot from the right circle.

Brush said the Tigers did everything except score.

“We played well, played with energy, but credit to Rutland,” he said.

And he praised his team — which will graduate forwards Julia Carone and Monroe Cromis, defender Molly Wetmore and goalie Rowan Hendy — for a terrific winter.

“The last half of the season the girls really came together,” he said. “We were firing on pretty high cylinders.”

Panthers (Continued from Page 1B) itive 2016 semifinal. The top seeds in the West bracket are Adrian and Wisconsin-River Falls, both 26-2.

Regardless of what happens next, the Panthers put big checkmarks on their to-do list on Sunday, said Coach Bill Mandigo — just before the Panthers dumped a celebratory bucket of water on him outside the team’s locker room.

“Today’s goal was to get the banner.

And now we get another week together. And that will be the goal next week, going into the game on Saturday, is to get another week,” he said. “The season seems long, but four years of hockey goes away in a hurry.”

In Sunday’s first period Amherst (14-8-4) won puck battles and territory and took a 1-0 lead on a Sara Culhane goal at 12:47. Culhane took a crisp clearing pass from Katie Savage, skated into the Panther zone and fired a high shot on goalie Julia Neuberger.

Neuberger made the save off her torso, but the rebound bounced back to Culhane, who tucked it inside the near post.

Despite the deficit, Middlebury forward Jessica Young, who picked up a goal and an assist in each tournament game, said the Panthers remained confident.

“We just knew that we weren’t playing our best, and if we worked hard and stayed together that we would get it done,” Young said.

Mandigo described what he told his team after the first period.

“If they wanted to be jumping up and down at the end of the game they needed to change the way the first period went,” he said. “And they did. In the second and third periods I thought they played very well. They skated, they moved the puck and they competed all over the ice.”

Amherst still worked hard, but chances were fewer, even though the shots remained even or in the Purple & White’s favor — a 31-22 edge overall.

And Middlebury began to threaten.

Middlebury’s Janka Hlinka tied the game at 5:38 on play that started with an Anna Zumwinkle shot from the right point on Amherst goalie Sabrina Dobbins (18 saves). Dobbins stopped that bid and then Lizzie Sheline on the rebound, but Hlinka pushed the puck home in the scramble.

Young netted the go-ahead goal 2:45 later on a picture-perfect play.

PANTHER JUNIOR GOALTENDER Julia Neuburger holds her ground and stops a point blank shot during Saturday’s NESCAC semifinal game against Bowdoin. Neuburger made nine saves in Middlebury’s 4-1 win.

Independent photos/Trent Campbell

Hlinka sent Lizzie Sheline into the left side of the Amherst zone, and from the circle Sheline slung the puck to Young, who beat the defense to the goal front and stretched to tap it inside the far post.

“I knew if I got to the net and put the stick in the right place she was going to get it there,” Young said.

The Panther defense and Neuberger (30 saves and NESCAC Player of the Week honors) took over from there.

Neuberger made some tough stops, but the defenders, led by seniors Carly Watson and Victoria Laven, also mostly kept the shooters on the outside and cleaned up the occasional rebound.

“Neubs did a great job. She played very well,” Mandigo. “And we spend a lot of time in the defensive end in practice. We work at it, and I think the kids responded.”

The penalty killers also excelled, especially Maddie Winslow, Elizabeth Wulf, Hlinka and Young, as Amherst failed to convert four power plays as Middlebury stretched its kill streak to 34 straight.

Sheline and Young teamed up again at 14:15 of the third. Hlinka sent Young into the left circle, and Young fed Sheline for a 12-foot wrist shot in the slot. Watson’s empty-netter in the final minute made it 4-1 and sent most of the nearly 800 fans home happy.

SEMIFINAL GAME On Saturday, the Panthers outshot

MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE SENIOR Allie Aiello celebrates with teammates after scoring the first goal of Saturday’s game against Bowdoin.

Middlebury won the NESCAC semifinal game, 4-1, and then beat Amherst on Sunday, also 4-1, to win the championship title.

Bowdoin, 35-10, in their 4-1 win.

Middlebury did not allow the 13-10-4 Polar Bears to shoot on Neuberger (10 saves) in the third period, making the 2-1 lead they carried into the final 20 minutes feel safer than Sunday’s.

Senior Allie Aiello, judging by fan response the most popular Panther, gave her team the lead early in the second, burying a Young feed into the right circle. Winslow made it 2-0 at 10:02 on a five-on-three power play, snapping home a high shot from the left circle, from Hlinka and Watson.

At 19:08 of the period Bowdoin made it 2-1 when Julie Dachille poked

the puck home in a scramble, with Brooke Solomon assisting.

But that was Bowdoin’s final shot on goal. Polar Bear goalie Kerri St. Denis kept the Panthers at bay for most of the third, but with 2:09 remaining Jenna Marotta wristed in a screened shot from the right circle, with Winslow and Young assisting. Young added an empty-netter.

Mandigo is happy the Panthers get to skate at least one more game in Kenyon Arena.

“To wear the white shirt in our rink and get these fans back again, I think will be awesome,” he said.

Women’s lacrosse opens by thumping Connecticut

MIDDLEBURY — The Middlebury College women’s lacrosse team opened its season on Sunday by coasting to a 19-4 victory over visiting NESCAC rival Connecticut.

The Panthers, ranked No. 1 in NCAA Division III preseason polls due to their status as defending national champions despite graduating nine seniors, spotted the Camels

the game’s first goal but soon took charge with a 7-0 run and led at the half, 15-3.

Middlebury was set to visit St. Lawrence on Wednesday in warmer weather, and will host Tufts at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

In last Sunday’s game, Panther attacker Mary O’Connell led all players with four goals and four assists, while Emma McDonagh scored

M O T I V AT I O N

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three times and set up a goal and Jenna McNicholas scored twice and assisted two strikes.

Emily Barnard scored three times, Henley Hall notched a goal and two helpers, and Casey O’Neill picked up a goal and two assists. On defense, Evie Keating snagged four ground balls and caused three turnovers.

Tina Balzotti scored twice to lead

I N S P I R AT I O N

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the Camels, and two Camel goalies combined for eight saves. Julia Keith made two saves in the first half for Middlebury and earned the win. Kate Furber started the second half in goal and didn’t record a save in 16:16 of play, while Alex Freedman logged the final 13:44 with a goal allowed and a save. Middlebury held advantages of 30-9 in shots and 18-11 in ground balls.

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Doubles team eyeing U.S. crown

Dickerson (Continued from Page 1B) est rivers in the country. Lumber mills upriver (and downriver) flushed toxic chemicals right into the river, and several towns did the same with their raw sewage. Until a few years earlier, the nearby lake where my family lived had been used as a large log-storage container for two local mills. When working on my book “Downstream: Reflections on Brook Trout, Fly Fishing, and the Waters of Appalachia,” I also read that lumberjacks in northern Maine used to pour oil into the streams to kill black flies, apparently unconcerned about killing most of the other creatures in and around the stream. When my family moved from Maine to eastern Massachusetts, I discovered that rivers there — like the Nashua, that flowed through the corner of my new hometown — seemed equally bad. Then there was Ohio’s infamous Cuyahoga River that actually caught on fire in 1969.

Fortunately, in 1972 Congress not only passed the Clean Water Act, but also banned the use of DDT as an agricultural pesticide. Osprey and bald eagles have returned to New England.

Common loons have become common again to many of our cleaner or more remote lakes. Two decades after the Time magazine listing, the Androscoggin River near the Maine-New Hampshire border was becoming a blue-ribbon trout fishery.

Of course that doesn’t mean that all the wounds have been healed. Toxins remain in river bottoms a long time.

Forests that are clear cut don’t come grow overnight, and mountaintops removed in Kentucky and West Virginia won’t grow back — at least not in the span of human lifetimes. Neither will the hundreds of miles of river that have been buried by the removal of those mountains. Extinct species don’t ever return, and in many cases extirpated species can’t be brought

back either. One of the lessons I brought back from Wyoming after spending last summer studying native cutthroat trout is that it is much easier to protect a river (and all its life) in the first place than it is to try to restore a river after it has been ecologically damaged.

Which is why I’ve been troubled lately. The first troubling news emerged early in 2016: a move among some in Congress to sell off public lands — lands that have been instrumental for decades in preserving wild habitats in a way that is nearly impossible for private owners to do. More recent news has been even more disturbing: Our current administration wants to weaken many of the important environmental protections of clean air and clean water that made the recovery of places like the Androscoggin River possible. Now there are proposals to either dramatically cut the EPA budget — a budget that is barely a drop in the bucket of our overall national budget — or simply to eliminate the EPA altogether.

I think back on that first trip to the Allagash, and on my subsequent 45 years of outdoor activities ranging from fishing Otter Creek in downtown Middlebury to camping in remote wilderness areas. I’m not sure whether it was my love of outdoor sports, especially fishing, that gave me a love of clean water and wild places and the creatures that live there, or whether it worked the other way around: the beauty of wild places is what inspired my love of fishing. Probably some of both. Fly fishing has definitely nurtured not only a love, but a deeper knowledge of the habitats where fish live, and I come to care not only about the fish that I am passionately pursuing but about the whole place where they live and all the other life sharing the river or depending on it.

All of which is sort of a long side

note. One of the things I enjoy about living in Vermont is the diversity of opinions, including around politics.

If you are living in Addison County reading this article, you probably have a neighbor who voted for Trump, and a neighbor who voted for Clinton.

And it’s not unlikely also a neighbor who voted Libertarian and one who voted Green. You certainly have one who voted for Bernie in the primary.

Yet despite the political diversity, there is an amazing unity in that Vermonters share a common care for nature, for clean water and clean air, and the wonderful habitats of our Green Mountains.

Maybe it comes from the high level of participation in outdoor sports. I read that Vermonters are second only to Alaskans in that regard. If you are a hunter, you may enjoy living on the edge of a national forest where there are no “Posted” signs. Or maybe you have never picked up a firearm in your life, but have enjoyed camping, cross-country skiing or hiking the Long Trail.

Or maybe it comes from our passion for good, local, healthy food, which both depends upon and leads back toward healthy soil. I’m sure there are other factors. Whatever the factors are, this collective understanding among Vermonters of the importance of protecting our clean earth and air and water seems to transcend politics in a very good way. I hope that transcendence continues.

I hope everybody who loves to fish and hunt, or hike and camp and ski cross-country, or to live where we see moose and osprey and eagles, and where trout live in our streams, or just to live where there is clean soil and the good local food that grows in it, will continue to support the importance of the environmental protections and the public lands that make this all possible.

Men’s lax opens with wins, ranked No. 12 MIDDLEBURY — The Middlebury College men’s lacrosse team won its opening two games of the season and is ranked No. 12 in the second weekly NCAA Division III poll. The Panthers travel to face No. 3 Tufts on Saturday in a NESCAC game.

In their opener on this past Saturday, the Panthers edged host NESCAC rival Connecticut, 8-6, as Parker Lawlor netted the game’s final two goals.

The Camels held a 2-1 lead after one quarter with Jack Gould putting the Panthers on the board. Henry Riehl tied the game early in the second quarter before the Camels went back on top, 3-2 at 13:28 on a Tucker Mscisz tally. Wes Quinzani knotted the game at 3-3 before the half.

The Panthers outscored the Camels, 3-2, in the third quarter to take the lead. Jake Schneider scored twice and

S

halftime. After a low-scoring third period that saw Middlebury outscore the Gulls by 2-1, the Panthers tacked on five more goals in the fourth quarter to pull away.

Riehl’s seven goals were one shy of the school single-game mark of eight.

Schneider added three goals, while Harry Giarrusso netted two with a pair of helpers and A.J. Kucinski added a goal and four assists. Joey Zelkowitz picked up seven ground balls, while Jack DeFrino scooped six. Ernst made six first-half saves to earn the win.

Will Perry played 26:25 with three saves, while Charles Midgley was in net for the game’s final 3:35.

Will Jennings paced Endicott with three goals and an assist. Gull goalie Kenny Sturgess made six first-half saves, while Grant Thompson made four in the second half.

AARON CRYSTAL, LEFT, and Zach Weaver recently won a New England tournament and will compete for a national doubles title in California next week.

Wrap (Continued from Page 1B) Four Bullets scored between nine and 13 points in the win.

Brianna Van DerWey scored eight to lead the Commodores, who finished at 8-13.

OTTERS Also on Tuesday, host No. 3 Fair Haven outlasted the No. 14 Otters, 32-26. Slater Adriana Dalto sank four three-pointers and scored 14, and teammate Halle Coloutti hit key free throws late and finished with 13 points.

The 16-5 Slaters will host No. 6 Mount Abraham (13-8) on Friday at 7 p.m. The Slaters defeated the Eagles, 37-23, at home early this season.

Gabriela Poalino scored seven to lead the Otters, whose latest in a series of strong defensive efforts this winter was not enough to prevent them from falling to the Slaters for a third time.

OV finished at 7-14.

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Lawlor once for Middlebury in the period.

Jackson Kleintz scored his fourth of the game for the Camels early in the fourth period to tie the game. Lawlor put Middlebury on top with 8:10 showing on the clock, and Lawlor he added a late goal on an open net.

Panther goalie Will Ernst made nine saves, while defender Eric Rogers caused three turnovers and scooped up three ground balls. Camel goalie Jameson Hill made 12 saves. Middlebury held a 47-28 shots advantage.

On Tuesday, Riehl scored seven goals and added an assist as Middlebury rolled to a 17-7 win over Endicott (0-3) in the Panthers’ home opener.

The Panthers took a 6-5 lead after 15 minutes of play, and then Riehl scored twice in the second quarter as the Panthers took a 10-6 lead into

MIDDLEBURY — Local tennis players Aaron Crystal and Zach Weaver, both regular U.S. Tennis Association league players at Middlebury Indoor Tennis (MIT), will compete for a national 4.0-level doubles championship in Indian Wells, Calif., from March 16 to 19.

Crystal and Weaver, former high school standout players in Middlebury and Rutland, respectively, earned that privilege with a recent win at a New England secAaron Crystal tional tournament. and Zach The team Weaver, will comformer pete at Indian Wells during high school a professional standout tour tournaplayers in ment, which Middlebury means that and Rutland, they might respectively. have the opportunity to practice next to world-class tennis players and watch some of that event.

USTA League Tennis offers youths and adults the chance to participate in competitive tennis against others at similar ability levels. Many MIT members play on about a dozen USTA League teams against other teams from abound the state. Winners of each league go to districts, winners of districts move on to sectionals, and the winners of sectionals go to national tournaments usually held in Arizona or California.

The youth programs at MIT are growing thanks to the Addison Community Athletics Foundation, which is putting into place the USTA Schools Program in Addison County elementary schools and at MIT. ACAF owns, manages, and supports MIT as a nonprofit organization.

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PAGE 4B — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

Addison Independent

CLASSIFIEDS Notices

LIONS CLUB NEEDS stuff for their annual auction.

Please NO appliances or electronics. Call for pick up, 388‑7124. Help us, help oth‑ ers.

Cards of Thanks THANK YOU ST. JUDE and Holy Father for prayers an‑ swered. MA. THE FAMILY OF GLADYS ORVIS wishes to express our sincerest appreciation for the thoughtfulness and love presented to us during the recent passing of our mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Thank you to all for the acts of kindness shown to us during this dif‑ ficult time. A special thank you to the staff at Addison County Home Health and Hospice and Helen Porter Health and Rehabilitation Center for the great care provided to Gladys in her fi‑ nal years. God Bless you all.

Public Meetings ADULT ALL‑ RECOVERY Group Meeting for anyone over 18 who is struggling with addiction disorders.

Fridays, 3‑4 p.m. at the Turning Point Center (54 Creek Rd). A great place to meet with your peers who are in recovery. Bring a friend in recovery. For info call 802‑388‑4249 or 802‑683‑5569 or visit www. turningpointaddisonvt.org.

AL‑ANON FAMILY GROUP ‑ For families and friends of problem drinkers. Anony‑ mous, confidential and free.

At the Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Middlebury.

7:30‑8:30 PM Friday eve‑ nings.

AL‑ANON: FOR FAMI‑ LIES and friends affected by someone’s drinking.

Members share experience, strength and hope to solve common problems. New‑ comers welcome. Confiden‑ tial. St. Stephen’s Church (use front side door and go to basement) in Middlebury, Sunday nights 7:15‑8:15 pm.

Public Meetings

Public Meetings

Public Meetings

Public Meetings

Services

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ MOUS BRANDON MEET‑ INGS: Monday, Discussion Meeting 7:30‑8:30 PM. Wednesday, 12 Step Meet‑ ing 7:00‑8:00 PM. Friday, Big Book Step Meeting 7:00‑8:00 PM. All held at the St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Rte 7 South.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY MEETINGS TUESDAYS: 12 Step Meetings; Noon‑1:00 PM. AND 7:30‑8:30 PM. Both held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Middlebury.

M A K I N G R E C O V E RY EASIER (MRE). Wednes‑ days, 5:30‑7:00 p.m. at the Turning Point Center (54 Creek Rd). This will be a facilitated group meeting for those struggling with the decision to attend 12‑Step Programs. It will be limited to explaining and discuss‑ ing our feelings about the 12‑Step Programs to create a better understanding of how they can help a person in recovery on his/her life’s journey. A certificate will be issued at the end of all the sessions. Please bring a friend in recovery who is also contemplating 12‑Step Programs.

OPIATE OVERDOSE RES‑ CUE KITS are distributed on Wednesdays from 9 am until 12 pm at the Turning Point Center of Addison County, 54 Creek Rd, Middlebury, VT. A short training is required.

For info call 802‑388‑4249 or 802‑683‑5569 or visit www. turningpointaddisonvt.org.

EXPERIENCED GARDNER LOOKING for gardening jobs for the summer of 2017.

Excellent references and fully insured. Call Tara at Vermont Outdoor People.

NA MEETINGS MIDDLE‑ BURY: Fridays, 7:30 pm, held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd.

SPIRITUAL AWAKEN‑ INGS MEETING of Alcohol‑ ics Anonymous, 7:30‑8:30 a.m., Friday, upstairs at St. Stephen’s Church., Middle‑ bury, VT.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ MOUS BRISTOL MEET‑ INGS: Sunday, Discussion Meeting 4:00‑5:00 PM. Wednesday, 12 Step Meet‑ ing 7:00‑8:00 PM. Friday, Big Book Meeting, 6:00‑7:00 PM. All held at the Howden Hall, 19 West Street.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY MEETINGS FRIDAY: Dis‑ cussion Meeting Noon‑1:00 PM at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Mid‑ dlebury.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY M E E T I N G S M O N D AY: As Bill Sees It Meeting Noon‑1:00 PM. Big Book Meeting 7:30‑8:30 PM. Both held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Middlebury.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY M E E T I N G S S AT U R ‑ DAY: Discussion Meeting 9:00‑10:00 AM at the Mid‑ dlebury United Methodist Church. Discussion Meet‑ ing 10:00‑11:00 AM. Begin‑ ners’ Meeting 6:30‑7:30 PM. These two meetings are held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Middlebury.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY MEETINGS SUNDAY: 12 Step Meeting 9:00‑10:00 AM held at the Middlebury United Methodist Church on N. Pleasant Street. Came to Believe Meeting 1:00‑2:00 PM held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Middlebury.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY MEETINGS THURSDAY: Big Book Meeting Noon‑1:00 PM at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd, Mid‑ dlebury. Speaker Meeting 7:30‑8:30 PM at St. Ste‑ phen’s Church, Main St. (On the Green).

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ M O U S M I D D L E B U RY MEETINGS WEDNESDAY: Big Book Meeting 7:15‑8:15 AM is held at the Middlebury United Methodist Church on N. Pleasant Street. Discus‑ sion Meeting Noon‑1:00 PM at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd. ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ MOUS NEW HAVEN MEET‑ INGS: Monday, Big Book Meeting 7:30‑8:30 PM at the Congregational Church, New Haven Village Green.

ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ MOUS NORTH FER‑ RISBURGH MEETINGS: Sunday, Daily Reflections Meeting 6:00‑7:00 PM, at the United Methodist Church, Old Hollow Rd. ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ MOUS RIPTON MEET‑ INGS: Monday, As Bill Sees It Meeting 7:15‑8:15 AM. Thursday, 12 Steps and 12 Traditions Meeting 7:15‑8:15 AM. Both held at Ripton Firehouse, Dugway Rd. ALCOHOLICS ANONY‑ MOUS VERGENNES MEETINGS: Sunday, 12 Step Meeting 7:00‑8:00 PM. Friday, Discussion Meeting 8:00‑9:00 PM. Both held at St. Paul’s Church, Park St. Tuesday, Discussion Meeting 7:00‑8:00 PM, at the Congregational Church, Water St.

NA MEETINGS MIDDLE‑ BURY: Mondays, 6 pm, held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd.

PARKINSONS SUPPORT GROUP meets on the last Thursday of every month from 10 am to 11:30 am. We meet at the Mountain Health Center in Bristol. For info call APDA at 888‑763‑3366 or parkinsoninfo@uvmhealth. org.

Services C&I DRYWALL. Hanging, taping, skim coat plas‑ tering. Also tile. Call Joe 802‑234‑5545 or Justin 802‑234‑2190.

NA MEETINGS MIDDLE‑ BURY: Sundays, 3:00 pm, held at The Turning Point Center, 54 Creek Rd. NEW SUPPORT GROUP ‑ Grief Anonymous Meeting every Thursday @ 6:30 pm at Grace Baptist Church 52 Merchants Row, Middelbury, Vt. First Meeting Thursday, December 1st, 2016

CONSTRUCTION: ADDI‑ TIONS, RENOVATIONS, new construction, drywall, carpentry, painting, flooring, roofing, pressure washing, driveway sealing. All aspects of construction, also property maintenance. Steven Fifield 802‑989‑0009.

OA (OVEREATERS ANON‑ YMOUS) MEETS on Thurs‑ days at 6 PM. Located at the Turning Point Center of Addison County, 54 Creek Road, Middlebury, VT.

ARE YOU BOTHERED

BY SOMEONE’S DRINK‑ ING? Opening Our Hearts Al‑Anon Group meets each Wednesday at 1:30 pm at Middlebury’s St. Stephen’s Church on Main St. (enter side door and follow signs).

Anonymous and confiden‑ tial, we share our experi‑ ence, strength and hope to solve our common problems.

Babysitting available.

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

3

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Great Opportunities!

PARTY RENTALS; CHI‑ NA, flatware, glassware, linens. Delivery available.

802‑388‑4831.

3

PROFESSIONAL PAINT‑ ING; interior/exterior, resi‑ dential/commercial, pressure washing. 20 years’ experi‑ ence. Best prices. Refer‑ ences. 802‑989‑5803.

Help Wanted A L L A R O U N D FA R M HAND 802‑233‑1249 or 802‑233‑3849

Mountain View Equipment, LLC.

LOOKING FOR

Experienced Technician

MUST HAVE LAWN & GARDEN, SMALL ENGINE, COMPACT DIESEL TRACTOR EXPERIENCE, YOUR OWN TOOLS, & A CLEAN DRIVING RECORD. COMPETITIVE PAY PLAN BASED ON EXPERIENCE. Please apply online or in person 1137 Route 7 North Opening in Middlebury Location 802-388-4482 • mountainviewequip.com Full time • Benefits • EOE

BANKRUPTCY: CALL to find out if bankruptcy can help you. Kathleen Walls, Esq. 802‑388‑1156.

COMMUNITY BASED / HOME INTERVENTION‑ IST Looking for a caring, compassionate adult, expe‑ rienced with kids, to spend a couple of afternoons a week with a 7 year old boy in the Bristol/Lincoln area, to have fun and work on social skills. To apply, send resume and cover letter to apply@csac‑vt.org or apply online at www.csac‑vt.org.

Help Wanted

Naylor & Breen Builders, Inc. is seeking Experienced Carpenters for a long-term opportunity with a high quality, people oriented general contractor. Candidates should have experience in commercial and residential rough and finish carpentry and all types of roofing. Applicants should be able to lift 50-75lbs and should have the ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed, written or oral instructions. Applicants should have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Some travel within Vermont or New Hampshire will be required.

This is a full time position with competitive pay; benefits after six months of full time employment. Qualified candidates should submit an application or resume and references to: Amanda Locke Naylor & Breen Builders, Inc. 191 Alta Woods, Brandon, VT 05733 or email to alocke@naylorbreen.com Job applications are available on our website, www.naylorbreen.com or by calling 802-247-6527.

Naylor & Breen Builders, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Description: Warehouse and Yard Worker – Part Time Warehouse Worker Job Purpose: Loading Orders for Customers, Stocking Shelves and Filling Propane Tanks.

Filling customer orders from the Yard, Warehouse and Store.

Skills/Qualifications: Ability to lift 50lbs repeatedly throughout the day Weekends and dependability a MUST! Preferable age 18+ by April 1st.

PLEASE FILL OUT AN APPLICATION IN PERSON. Middlebury Agway – 338 Exchange St. – Middlebury, VT.

Services

Services

Services

Services

Services

Services

OLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY

OLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY

Living Well Residence is looking for volunteers who are interested in leading any type of activity, and they can also help think of ideas if you’re not sure of what you’d like to do! Some examples of what people have done in the past include leading trivia, reading to folks, a craft activity, sharing a collection or pictures of a vacation, and more. Volunteers can lead an activity on a weekly basis, every other week, once a month, or just once! We are very flexible when it comes to your schedule and availability. Interested volunteers can contact our office at 802-388-7189 or visit the Volunteer Center at http://unitedwayaddisoncounty.galaxydigital.com/need/ detail/?need_id=239275

United Way of Addison County is seeking a (or several) volunteer coordinator(s) for their annual Stuff the Bus back to school donation drive event. The ideal candidate(s) are highly efficient, organized, and thorough. Event planning experience is a plus but not a requirement, this would be a great project for higher level high school student/students. Interested candidates can call our office at 802-388-7189 or visit our Volunteer Center at http://unitedwayaddisoncounty.galaxydigital.com/need/ detail/?need_id=240149

Lead an activity for elders!

Summer Event Coordinators (High School Students Encouraged!)

Addison Independent

CLASSIFIED ORDER FORM

Cash in on our 4-for-3 rates! Pay for 3 issues, get 4th issue free!

www.addisonindependent.com • email: classifieds@addisonindependent.com

PLEASE PRINT YOUR AD...

An ad placed for consecutive issues (Mondays & Thursdays) is run 4th time free!

• Special 4 for 3 rates not valid for the following categories: Services, Opportunities, Real Estate, Wood heat, Attn. Farmers, For Rent & Help Wanted

Name: Address: Phone: Email: DEADLINES: Thurs. noon for Mon. paper

RATES

ADDISON INDEPENDENT 58 Maple Street, Middlebury, VT 05753 802-388-4944

Mon. 5 p.m. for Thurs. paper

• 25¢ per word • minimum $2.50 per ad • $2 internet listing for up to 4 issues • minimum 2 insertions

Notices Card of Thanks Personals Services Free** Lost ’N Found** Garage Sales Lawn & Garden Opportunities Adoption ** no charge for these ads

Work Wanted Help Wanted For Sale Public Meetings** For Rent Want to Rent Wood Heat Real Estate Animals Spotlight with large

3$2

Att. Farmers Motorcycles Cars Trucks SUVs Snowmobiles Boats Wanted Real Estate Wanted Vacation Rentals

The Independent assumes no financial responsibility for errors in ads, but will rerun classified ad in which the error occurred. No refunds will be possible. Advertiser will please notify us of any errors which may occur after first publication.

Number of words: Cost: # of runs: Spotlight Charge: Internet Listing: TOTAL:

$2.00

Business&Service

DIRECTORY

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 – PAGE 5B

• accounting • appliance repair • auto glass • automotive • carpentry/contractors • cleaning services

Floor Care

Accounting

Rene Many - CTPA, Inc. Tax Preparation & Accounting

Corporate Partnerships, Small Businesses & Personal Returns

Call 758-2000 Today!

t!

Alexander Appliance Repair Inc.

v

us

tr

GAS OR ELECTRIC Washers Refridgerators Dishwashers Disposals

Se r

yo ice

n u ca

Cell: 802-989-5231 Office: 802-453-2007

Dryers Ranges Microwaves Air Conditioners

Jack Alexander

982 Briggs Hill Road • Bristol

Whip-Poor-Will

• lumber • masonry

• computers • engineering • equipment rentals • fencing • floor care • insulation

The PC MediC of VerMonT

Home Services

GET YOUR COMPUTER RUNNING LIKE NEW AGAIN !

• Small Construction • Light Backhoe Work • Remodel Paul Vaczy • Repair H: 802-352-9883 • Clearing C: 802-349-4514 • Brush Hog pvaczy@myfairpoint.net

• Fast, Reliable Repairs • Hardware & Software Installations & Upgrades • Spyware Removal & Virus Protection • Secure Wireless Network Setup • Computer Purchasing Assistance • Affordable Rates at Your Convenience

Paul Claudon • 802-734-6815 pcmedic@gmavt.net

MARK TRUDEAU GENERAL CARPENTRY HOME IMPROVEMENTS LOCAL CONTRACTOR

Over two decades experience!

Engineering

Remodeling • Additions Painting • Roofing

WINNER of “Best Local Contractor” THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS by READERS CHOICE AWARDS!

Carpet Cleaning & Water Removal Stripping - Waxing - Buffing

802.388.0860 MIDDLEBURY, VERMONT

802-759-2706 802-349-6050 phone or fax

OR

cell phone

email: cmulliss@gmavt.net 1900 Jersey St., S. Addison, VT 05491

Desabrais Means Glass & Affordable Service

• Windshield Repair • Insulated Glass • Plate Glass • Window Glass • Plexiglass • Safety Glass • Mirrors • Auto Glass • Storm Windows • Screen Repairs • Custom Shower Door Enclosures Vinyl Replacement windows and Complete Installation

Heating & AC

Insurance Approved discounts

Middlebury, VT 05753 • 388-9049

Automotive

1438 S. Brownell Rd. • PO Box 159 • Williston, VT 05495 802-862-5590 • www.gmeinc.biz

Over 30 yrs. experience

Buy Local! 802.989.0396

Field Automotive Inc.

Specializing in Ductwork for Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning Systems

Complete Auto Service • Domestic & Foreign Repairs

Preventive Maintenance Brakes • Tune-ups Exhausts • Alignments Air Conditioning • State Inspections 62 Meigs Rd., Vergennes

877-9222

Business Cards ards Business C der r Made to O

Labels & Letterhead too!

Order your Custom Business Cards here at the

Ductwork Design • Sealing Fabrication • Installation Insulation • Replacement Plasma Art • Torches • Welding Plasma Table • Duct Cleaning H.R.V. / E.R.V. Installation Ductwork Video Camera

Addison Independent.

Call Vicki at 388-4944 or stop by our office in the Marble Works between 8am & 5pm Monday- Friday.

Commercial/Residential . Owner Operated . Fully Insured . Neat & Clean

Alan Huizenga, P.E., President Kevin Camara, P.E. Jamie Simpson, P. E. • Middlebury Brad Washburn, P. E. • Montpelier

Quaker Village Carpentry

Insulation

“INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS WITH A COMMON SENSE APPROACH DELIVERED TO OUR CLIENTS IN A PROFESSIONAL, COST EFFECTIVE AND PERSONAL MANNER”

Siding, Windows, Garages, Decks & Porches New Construction, Renovations and Repairs

Maurice plouffe

802-545-2251 1736 Quaker Village Road Weybridge, VT 05753

Equipment Rentals

CLOVER STATE

40 TYPES OF RENTAL EQUIPMENT TO CHOOSE FROM

• material forklifts • excavators • bulldozers • mini-excavators • skidsteers

WINDOW & SIDING CO., INC Windows • Vinyl siding • Garages Roofs • Additions • Decks

Waste Management – Roll-off container service

• Man lifts up to 80’ • man basket w/crane up to 188

Dense Pack Cellulose • Blown In Insulation Complete Air Sealing

802-545-2251 • Maurice Plouffe 1736 Quaker Village Road, Weybridge, VT 05753

• concrete compactors • backhoes

Fast, friendly, reliable service & competitive rates.

Lumber

802-877-2102 Toll Free: 888-433-0962 mlbrunet@gmavt.net

www.cloverstate.com 275 South 116 Bristol, VT116 05443 275 South 116 275 South Bristol, VT 05443 Bristol, VT 05443

1-800-880-6030  Rough Fax:1-800-880-6030 (802) 453-2730 Lumber 1-800-880-6030 Fax: (802) 453-2730 Fax: (802) 453-2730

www.brownswelding.com

oVer 40 LiFTS 275 South 116, Bristol, Vermont 05443 oVer 40 LiFTS LiFTS oVer 40

(802) 453-3351• Cell (802) Please give us363-5619 a call.

Please give us a We have the lift forcall. you!

We have the lift for you!

40’ to 80’ manlifts Scissor Lifts up to 32’ mini excavator Fencing

New Construction Remodels and Additions Window and Siding Installation Smaller Home Repairs

40’ to 80’ manlifts manlifts 40’ 80’ 42’to material forklifts 42’ material forklifts 42’ material Fork lifts up forklifts to 15,000 lbs.

Scissor Lifts up up to to 32’ 32’ Scissor Lifts excavator excavator excavator Skid Steer

 Pine Siding

mikeysmill.com

Long Beams

802-388-7828  End of S. Munger St.  Middlebury

mini excavator mini excavator air Compressor air Compressor Compressor air

Fence SerVing VermonT& NEW & neW York SERVING VERMONT YORK FOR For OVER30 30YearS! YEARS! SerVing VermonT & neWCompany York For 30 YearS!

Fork lifts lifts up up to to 15,000 15,000 lbs. lbs.

Fork

Native Vermonter

 Open most nights & weekends

Skid Steer Steer Skid

Masonry

LLC.

CHECK US OUT ONLINE AT WWW.ADDISONINDEPENDENT.COM Cleaning Services Green Valley Cleaning Service Inc. Residential/Commercial

Providing professional cleaning services for over 16 years!

Call us today to get on the schedule for 2017

802-345-6906 or 802-345-8000 Rusty & Carol Brigham Shoreham • Cornwall • Bridport Orwell • Weybridge • Middlebury • Salisbury • Brandon • Whiting

Owner/Oper.

R. Scott Munson

Fully Insured

Split Rail, Privacy, Chain link, Vinyl, Aluminum & More Commercial/ResidentialFree Esimates Located in Shoreham, VT

eight02fencecompany@yahoo.com 802-897-5658 www.802fence.com

Floor Care Andre’s Floor Refinishing - An Established Vermont Business with Over 30 Years of Experience -

Specializing in Hardwood & Softwood Floors Commercial Oil and Waterborne Finishes Quality Workmanship - Competitive Pricing 54 Daigneault Hill Road Orwell,Vermont 05760

802-948-2004

Matt Sheldrick Masonry Over 15 years of experience in Historic Restoration on Stonework, Fireplaces, Chimneys, etc.

Carpentry Painting Roofing

802.989.9611

Fine Dry Stone Masonry

Jamie Masefield

Certified by the Dry Stone Wallers Association of Great Britain

802-233-4670 jmasefield@gmavt.net

&

PAGE 6B — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

DIRECTORY

Business Service Medical Supplies

• medical supplies • painting • plumbing & heating • renewable energ • septic

• septic & water • siding • stamps • storage • surveying

• trailers/transport • towing • tree services • window treatments

Tree Service

Septic & Water

Serving Vermont for over 42 years!

Medical Equipment and Oxygen SALES & RENTAL Knowledgable Staff

Personalized Service

Fax: 388-4146 Marble Works, Middlebury, VT

388-9801

Celebrating 31 Years

Environmental Consultants – Licensed Designers Steve Revell CPG, LD#178 BW Jeremy Revell LD#611 BW • Tyler Maynard LD#597 B • Water Supply - Location, Development and Permitting • On-Site Wastewater Design • Single & Multiple Lot Subdivision • Property Development & Permitting • State and Local Permitting • Underground Storage Tank Removal & Assessment Toll-Free: 800-477-4384

Painting

802-453-4384

Fax 802-453-5399 • Email: jrevell@lagvt.com 163 Revell Drive • Lincoln, VT 05443

www.lagvt.com

FOR SEPTIC TANK PUMPING & DRAIN CLEANING SERVICE,

NDON'S DU

Rely on the professionals.

Plumbing & Heating

PORTABLE RESTROOMS Rt. 22A, Orwell • 948-2082 Rt. 7 So., Middlebury •388-2705

HESCOCK PAINTING Free Estimates

A friendly, professional, and affordable family business.

References

462-3737 or 989-9107

Fully Insured

Kim or Jonathan Hescock hescock@shoreham.net

NDO N DUPlumbing & 'S Heating

AIRPORT AUTO Self Storage • Low Rates

Also a good selection of used vehicles 44 School House Hill Road, E. Middlebury

388-0432 • 388-8090

To get your ad space call 388-4944 TODAY

SEPTIC SERVICE TANK & CESSPOOL PUMPING ELECTRONIC TANK LOCATING TANK & LEACH FIELD INSPECTIONS NEW SYSTEMS INSTALLED ALL SEPTIC SYSTEM REPAIRS DRAIN & PIPE CLEANING Full Excavation Service

Professional Installation • Heating Systems • Plumbing Supplies • Bathroom Design • Water Treatment Great Advice

BROWN’S TREE & CRANE SERVICE

WE HAVE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR THE RIGHT JOB – TO GIVE YOU REASONABLE RATES Dangerous Trees Cut & Removed Stumps Removed Trusses Set Trees Trimmed Land Clearing Reasonable Rates • Year-round Service • Fully Insured

(802) 453-3351 • Cell (802) 363-5619 24 Hour Emergency Service 453-7014

Brownswelding.com

25 Yrs Experience 60’ bucket truck wood chipper available Fully Insured Free Estimates

Brett Sargent owner/operator

Window Treatments LAROSE SURVEYS, P.C. Ronald L. LaRose, L.S. • Kevin R. LaRose, L.S.

Land Surveying/Septic Design “We will take you through the

Middlebury, VT

permitting process!”

Premium window treatments, retractable screens and awnings.

25 West St. • PO Box 388 Bristol, VT 05443 Telephone: 802-453-3818 Fax: 802- 329-2138

Rt. 22A, Orwell 948-2082 388-2705

larosesurveys@gmail.com

Short Surveying, inc.

298 Maple Street Middlebury, VT 802.247.3883 vtshadeandblind@gmail.com VermontShadeandBlind.com

Serving Addison County Since 1991

Timothy L. Short, L.S. Property Line Surveys • Topographical Surveys FEMA Elevation Certificates 135 S. Pleasant St., Middlebury, VT 388-3511 ssi@sover.net

Barnard & Gervais, LLC

Stamps

Land Surveying - Water & Septic Designs State & Local Permitting Environmental Consulting

Jason Barnard

Michael Gervais

Licensed Designer

Licensed Surveyor

Serving Vermont from offices in Hinesburg and Enosburgh

MADE TO ORDER Plumbing • Heating 125 Monkton Road Bristol, VT 05443 802-453-2325 cvplumbingheating.com

Self Inking & Hand Stamps

Fuel Delivery 185 Exchange Street Middlebury, VT 05753 802-388-4975 champlainvalleyfuels.com

Available at the Addison Independent in the Marble Works, Middlebury

Serving all your plumbing and heating needs.

Owned and operated by: Bill Heffernan, Jim & David Whitcomb

388-4944

802-349-8433 802-482-2597 www.barnardandgervais.com

Trailers/Transport Motor Home Specialties LLC 3233 Vt. Rte. 22A, Bridport, VT 05734 (802-349-8123) Office Repairs & Maintenance New Services: Custom Built Trailers & Hitches Transporting Cars & Compact Equipment

Renewable Energy Soak Up The Sun!

STORAGE 4 Sizes ~ Self-locking units Hardscrabble Rd., Bristol

Don’t spend your hard-earned money making the hot water or electricity that you use today– SOLAR IS MORE AFFORDABLE THAN EVER!

Monthly prices

6’x12’ $30 • 8’x12’ $45 10’x12’ $55 • 12’x21’ $75

We’ve been here for you for 43 years – Let us help you with your solar projects today.

Go Green with us –

Towing TREADWAY & RINGEY Shoreham, Vermont

24 hr Heavy Towing & Recovery Heavy Truck Repair & Diagnosis Heavy Haul, Oversize, Local & Long distance

•

Call for a FREE on-site evaluation

VISIT US ON FACEBOOK

FREE ESTIMATES FOR TREE SERVICES

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

www.livingstonfarmlandscape.com

Call Jeff 802-948-2950

made you look. imagine what white space can do for you.

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 7B

Addison Independent

CLASSIFIEDS Help Wanted

Help Wanted

ATTENTION STA/Bet-Cha Transit Inc.

Now seeking sporting events & bus route bus drivers in Addison County area. Work 2-4 hours a day. We provide training to qualified applicants. Train over the summer to start at the beginning of the school year. Eliminate childcare costs and collect unemployment during summer and holidays.

Please contact Lori at 388-7800.

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Lincoln Library, Inc.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR Enthusiastic and creative leader needed for vibrant patron-centered library.

MLIS or library experience preferred but not required. 30 hrs/week.

See www.lincolnlibraryvt.com for more information.

Send resume and cover letter to lincolnlibrariansearch@gmail.com Dick Nessen, Lincoln Library 222 West River Road Lincoln, VT 05443

Class A CDL Driver (Vergennes) Full time, immediate opening. Feed Commodities Int’l. is looking for an experienced driver to provide excellent customer service delivering feed to farm customers from our Vergennes mill. This position will be responsible for the timely, efficient, accurate, safe and friendly transportation and unloading of animal feed. An example of responsibilities and expectations include: perform and document pre and post trip vehicle and trailer inspections; drive in a safe and lawful manner at all times; maintain clean, orderly and safe equipment; timely communication of all vehicle and customer issues; maintain a neat and clean personal appearance; and other tasks assigned from time to time.

Minimum of two years tractor trailer experience; valid Class A CDL license with a clean record; basic math skills, ability to work 40-50 hours per week and Saturdays when on call; ability to lift 75 pounds; pass a DOT physical and drug and alcohol checks, and DMV checks.

Benefits include a 401k with match, health, life, and short term disability insurance, paid time off and paid holidays.

Please send your resume and cover letter to ihiggins@feedcommodities.com.

FEED COMMODITIES IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Pediatric Nurse LPN or RN

needed for busy office 25+ hours per week fixed schedule. Benefits available.

Position available immediately.

Help wanted

TOWN OF NEW HAVEN ROAD COMMISSIONER

Part Time (possibility of becoming full time) Working Road Commissioner This person will be charged with overseeing the construction and maintenance of the town highways on behalf of the Selectboard.

The position is compensated at a rate commensurate with experience.

The Road Commissioner should have the following critical skills and qualifications: • Have working knowledge of road construction and maintenance, culvert installation, operation of construction equipment, experience plowing snow etc.; • Possess at least a high school diploma or GED; and, • Commercial Driver’s License, with proper endorsements is a plus.

For further information, please contact the New Haven Town Clerk’s office, Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 453-3516, or contact Kathy Barrett at 453-4232.

Application form and job description can also be found at www.newhavenvt.com.

Applications with 3 references to be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on March 21, 2017 to Town of New Haven, 78 North Street, New Haven VT 05472.

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

COMMUNITY BASED/ HOME INTERVENTION‑ IST looking for a caring, compassionate adult, expe‑ rienced with kids to spend a couple of afternoons a week with an 8 year old girl in the Middlebury area.

Looking to help her have fun and build self‑esteem and social skills. To apply, send resume and cover letter to apply@csac‑vt.org or apply online at www.csac‑vt.org.

MIDDLEBURY NATURAL FOODS CO‑OP seeking assistant manager of pro‑ duce department. Ideal candidate has leadership experience and supervisory skills and enjoys working in a fast paced team oriented environment. Excellent com‑ munication and customer service skills desired. Must be able to lift 60 lbs repeat‑ edly. Evenings and week‑ ends required. Full time with excellent benefits. To apply, complete application (available in our store or at middlebury.coop) and send it with a letter of interest to: Middlebury Natural Foods Co‑op, 1 Washington St., Middlebury, VT 05753.

MISTER UPS NOW AC‑ CEPTING applications for Servers. Please apply within, 25 Bakery Lane, Middlebury.

COMMUNITY INTEGRA‑ TION SPECIALIST provide 1:1 mentoring to individu‑ als with developmental disabilities in goal‑oriented community activities. Help them access community resources, make friends, learn new life/social skills, and express their creativ‑ ity. You will be supporting diverse needs and inter‑ est. Seeking a candidate with patience, good judg‑ ment, flexibility and excel‑ lent boundary setting skills.

Experience in behavioral support strongly desired.

Good driving record, use of personal vehicle and GED required. M‑F with compre‑ hensive benefit package. To apply, visit www.csac‑vt.org, or respond to CSAC HR, 89 Main Street, Middlebury, VT 05753. 802‑388‑6751, ext. 425.

MARY’S AT BALDWIN CREEK in Bristol, is seek‑ ing individuals for front of the house positions, both server and bartender. Fine dining experience serving the best of local food is preferred, but we are happy to train a positive, hardworking pas‑ sionate server. Bartenders should have solid founda‑ tion in craft cocktails. Send your resume with a cover letter indicating why you feel you would be a great addition to our crew. Email: info@innatbaldwincreek. com. 802‑453‑2432.

Evening Bistro Attendant (Part-Time)

Evening Guest Service Representative (Full & Part-Time)

Candidates must be available weekends, evenings, overnights and holidays. We offer competitive wages and benefits.

Previous hotel experience is preferred but not required. Training is provided. Join our award-winning team, providing quality customer service, a positive attitude and excellent work ethic. Interested, qualified candidates can apply in person at 309 Court Street, Middlebury or e-mail your resumé to Karrie.LaMere@Courtyard.com. Please, no phone inquiries.

For Rent

For Rent

For Rent

For Rent

3

DRY, WINTER/SUMMER STORAGE SPACE in Addi‑ son. Available storage space in my barn for summer/winter storage. The barn is structur‑ ally sound and weather‑tight with electricity. No heat or running water. The barn is also available for lease.

The entrance door measure‑ ments are 8’ wide by 7’ high.

For more info: 802‑363‑3403 or rochon_m@yahoo.com.

BRANDON: PARK VIL‑ LAGE is now accepting applications for 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Rents starting at $700, includes heat and trash. No pets.

Laundry onsite. Income re‑ strictions apply. Call Sum‑ mit Property Management Group at 802‑247‑0165 or visit our website www.summitpmg.com.

FOR RENT PRIME RETAIL space. 1,303 square feet.

Location, location. Front door parking. Good visibility.

Call Eric at 388‑6054.

SEEKING PHYSICAL THERAPIST part to full time for a busy outpatient setting in Addison County. Looking for motivated team player with strong manual skills, evidence based treatment to develop individualized treatment plans to meet patient’s functional goals.

New graduate considered.

Salary and benefit informa‑ tion on request. Please send resume and cover letter to diane@bptvt.com.

SPECIALIZED RESIDEN‑ TIAL SUPPORT join a dedicated team of support for two women with devel‑ opmental disabilities based in their Middlebury home. In a therapeutic environment, you will provide stability and consistency, and help them achieve their personal goals.

They are looking to expand their horizons, while learn‑ ing independent living/social skills, personal boundaries, emotional self‑regulation, and healthy life‑style. Seek‑ ing an energetic team player as well as creative thinker.

Experience with behavioral support desirable. Fully‑ben‑ efited position with two over‑ nights per week with week‑ end hours. To apply, visit www.csac‑vt.org, or respond to CSAC HR, 89 Main Street, Middlebury, VT 05753, 802‑388‑6751, ext. 425.

SUMMER TEACH‑ ERS‑EARLY CHILDHOOD Summer teaching posi‑ tions open at Middlebury early childhood program.

Work with a team on overall classroom management, indoor and outdoor play and activities. Experience with children is required. Send resume and three references to: Mary Johnson Children’s Center, 81 Water Street, Middlebury, VT 05753, office@mjccvt.org, EOE.

3

THE VERMONT SOUP COMPANY is seeking a part time assistant for food preparation. Please send resume and two references to info@vtsoup.com.

Part-time

EVENING CLEANER

needed in Vergennes, M-F. Please call

802-863-3063

APARTMENT FOR RENT Middlebury. 3 bedroom, 2 full bath. On 2 floors of historic house. Beautifully renovated, high ceiling, hardwood floors. Walk to college and shops. Available now. Rent $2,400 per month.

Includes heat. No smoking.

No pets. Contact owner at dorisj@comcast.net.

3

BRISTOL; 3 BEDROOM APARTMENT heat, hot water, snow and lawn care included. Carpeting, stove and refrigerator.

Available now. $1150 per month. Basement. Garage.

802‑453‑2566.

for more information.

P.O. Box 646 • Middlebury, Vermont 05753 • 802.388-3171 Please send resume and 3 references to:

Rainbow Pediatrics Attn: Lisa Ryan 44 Collins Drive, Suite 202 Middlebury, VT 05753 OR Email them to: lisaryan@sover.net

Join the Parent/Child Center Team We are seeking a social worker to work with low-income families. Strong candidates must have knowledge of child and adolescent development, family systems, mental health issues, excellent communication skills, and strength in building relationships. Flexibility and collaboration is a must. This is a position with generous benefits, total hours negotiable. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field is a must. MSW preferred.

Contact Info: Please contact Donna Bailey at dbailey@addisoncountypcc.org or Sue Bloomer at sbloomer@addisoncountypcc.org . Deadline for applicants is March 17, 2017.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SERVICE BOARD VACANCY

The term of the chair of the Vermont Public Service Board has expired.

Persons interested in applying for this position must submit an application to the Judicial Nominating Board. Applications may be obtained by contacting Brenda Chamberlin at 802-828-1152 or at brenda.chamberlin@vermont. gov. Completed applications (including an original and 11 copies) must be delivered before 5 PM on March 20, 2017 to: John Evers Chair, Judicial Nominating Board Shoup Evers & Green 84 Pine St., 4th Floor Burlington, VT 05401

This is a six year appointment. While there are no express statutory education or job experience requirements, an applicant must demonstrate the ability to assimilate and understand a large volume of highly technical information, including legal principles and accounting, financial and engineering data.

The applicant should also possess the ability to write clearly on complicated subjects, to conduct himself\herself in a judicial manner, to manage complex utility litigation in a quasi–judicial hearing process and to manage the personnel, budget and caseload of the Public Service Board. While the Public Service Board chair has traditionally been an attorney, admission to the Bar is not required.

Applicants who are found well qualified by the Judicial Nominating Board shall have their names submitted to the Governor who has the power of appointment. An appointment made by the Governor is subject to confirmation by the Vermont Senate.

SUBSCRIBE! Call 388.4944, today!

For Sale CEDAR POSTS for sale.

8 footers, no points.

802‑388‑4831.

For Rent 1,800 SQ. FT. WARE‑ HOUSE as is or renovate to suit. Creek Road, Middle‑ bury. 802‑558‑6092.

For Rent

3

BRISTOL; 3 BEDROOM APARTMENT Heat, trash, snowplowing, lawn care, parking, small storage, stove & refrigerator included. $1,175/mo. 802‑453‑2566.

C O R N WA L L 1 B E D ‑ ROOM apartment, second floor, 1‑1/2 baths. Deck, skiylights. $925/mo. in‑ cludes heat and hot water. batesproperties@yahoo. com .

For Rent

MIDDLEBURY 1 BED‑ ROOM APARTMENT $800 monthly rent plus deposit.

Includes some utilities.

388‑0401.

MIDDLEBURY 3 BED‑ ROOM apartment on Court Street, heat included. Call 802‑388‑4831.

NEW HAVEN, 2 BEDROOM upstairs apartment. Bright and spacious. Need 1st and last month’s rent. Price in‑ cludes heat, electricity & rubbish removal. No pets, $1195 per month. Call 802‑453‑4037.

NEW HAVEN: BEAUTIFUL VIEWS, sunny apartment.

Garden space. No pets, no smoking. References, security deposit, lease. $875/month plus utilities.

802‑236‑2040.

ONE BEDROOM APART‑ MENT off from a house. $700 per month, everything included. $400 security. No pets. No smoking. Will not be available until April 1st.

Located in Whiting. Contact Marie for an appointment.

802‑623‑6082.

For Rent

PAGE 8B — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

Addison Independent

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent

For Rent

Real Estate

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SUITE conveniently located in Middlebury‑ Court St./ Creek Rd. Two private of‑ fices. Large reception area.

Large central open space for additional offices /cu‑ bicles or boardroom. Private bathroom. Space is freshly painted. Ready to move in.

Call 388‑6054.

WEST ADDISON ‑ AVAIL‑ ABLE IMMEDIATELY Ready to move into, Furnished 2 bedroom apartment. Country setting on Lake Champlain. $950 per month includes util‑ ities. No pets. 802‑759‑2382.

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOUSE on one of the six, now five remaining home‑sites in East Middle‑ bury’s Daisy Lane, a small established subdivision with village water, underground electric, cable and tele‑ phone to each lot. All sites are approved for simple in ground septic. Just down the street you’ll find a library, playground, tennis courts and the beautiful Waybury Inn and Pub. That’s not all, Daisy Lane is 15‑20 minutes from the Snow Bowl, two 18 hole golf courses and beautiful Lake Dunmore.

Telephone 802‑388‑2502 or 802‑388‑7350.

SINGLE ROOM PROFES‑ SIONAL office in historic Middlebury landmark, over‑ looking downtown. Space dimensions 15x15, with com‑ mon areas and bathrooms shared with other profes‑ sional tenants. Rent $500 per month which includes heat, electric, hot water, gar‑ bage, recycling and private off street parking. For inquiry call 802‑989‑8822.

WEST ADDISON: 2 STORY, furnished house on lakefront.

Washer, dryer. No smok‑ ing. Available September through May. $1,000/month.

860‑878‑9580.

Want to Rent

3

PROFESSIONAL COUPLE LOOKING for a house swap in order to attend Middle‑ bury College June 23,2017 ‑ August 14,2017 with our dog and cat. Home is in Medford, Massachusetts, about 6 miles northwest of downtown Boston. Great location with easy com‑ mute to Boston. Cape Cod is only 75 miles south for great weekend getaways.

Medford is home to Tufts University as well as 5 miles from Harvard University. 3 bedroom , 1.5 bath home with off street parking. If in‑ terested contact: Adam Azia, a_azia@yahoo.com or 781‑396‑1396.

Real Estate

TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR 3 bedroom house in Middlebury. Available 1st to middle of April. $1,100 per month. First,last and secu‑ rity required. References required. 802‑352‑4124.

2 BEDROOM, 1.5 BATH Condo in Vergennes. 1,280 square feet, open living space. Built in 2008, no dogs allowed. $138,400 ($171,000‑$32,600 in grants) Contact Mary 877‑2626 ext. 100 or mary@addisontrust.org 3 BEDROOM 1 BATH Ver‑ Mod Energy Efficient home in Vergennes. Built in 2014, located in Otter Creek Mobile Home Park. Solar panels. $68,000 ($143,000‑$75,000 in grants) Contact Mary 877‑2626 ext 100 or mary@addisontrust.org

Att. Farmers 9 COMMERCIAL AN‑ GUS HEIFERS due April 1. Bred to special focus.

Effective. Contact Ray at 802‑759‑2135.

FIRST CUT HAY for sale.

Small square bales. Call 802‑349‑9281.

SECOND CUT BALEAGE 19 percent protein for sale.

Also 4x5 first cut, dry round bales. Under cover. Contact Ray at 802‑759‑2135.

W H I T N E Y ’ S C U S TO M FARM WORK. Pond agi‑ tating, liquid manure haul‑ ing, drag line aerating. Call for price. 462‑2755, John Whitney.

Wanted TRUSTED 3RD GEN. VT Antique dealer special‑ izing in jewelry, watches, silver, art, military, an‑ tique collectibles, etc. Visit www.bittnerantiques.com or call Brian at 802‑272‑7527.

Consulting/appraisal ser‑ vices available. House calls made free of charge.

Public Notices Index Pages 8B & 9B. Addison County Court House (1) Addison County Superior Court (2)

Green Mount Cemetery Assoc.

- Starksboro (1)

Addison Northwest School District – Addison, Middlebury Cemetery Assoc. (1) Shoreham (1) Ferrisburgh, Panton, Vergennes, Waltham (1) Vermont Secretary of State (1) Ferrisburgh (1)

TOWN OF FERRISBURGH

The legal voters of the Town of Ferrisburgh, Vermont are hereby notified and warned to meet at the Ferrisburgh Town Hall, Ferrisburgh, Vermont on Monday April 10, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. for the first of two public Selectboard hearings for approval of the proposed Town Charter language. This notice is given pursuant to 17 VSA § 2645. An official copy of the proposed charter language is on file for public inspection in the office of the Town Clerk. Copies shall be made available to members of the public upon request. A copy of the proposed charter amendment will be placed in each voting booth.

The Ferrisburgh Select Board 3/9

NOTICE OF SALE

According to the terms and conditions of a Judgment and Decree of Foreclosure by Judicial Sale (the Order) in the matter of Vermont Housing Finance Agency v. Christopher L. Welch, Victoria A. Welch and Any Tenants Residing at 15 Bay View Lane (f/k/a Lot 1, Lake Street), Shoreham, VT, Vermont Superior Court, Addison Unit - Civil Division, Docket No. 96-6-16 Ancv, foreclosing a mortgage given by Christopher L. Welch and Victoria A. Welch to National Bank of Middlebury dated May 12, 1998 and recorded in Volume 48, Page 117 of the Shoreham Land Records (the Mortgage) presently held by Plaintiff Vermont Housing Finance Agency for the purpose of foreclosing the Mortgage for breach of the conditions of the Mortgage, the real estate with an E-911 address of 15 Bay View Lane (f/k/a Lot 1, Lake Street), Shoreham, Vermont (the Property) will be sold at public auction at 11:00 a.m. on April 7, 2017 at the location of the Property.

The Property to be sold is all and the same land and premises described in the Mortgage, and further described as follows: Ground lease assigned by Assignment of Lease and Sale from 24 Washington Street Partnership to Christopher L. Welch and Victoria A. Welch dated May 12, 1998 and recorded on May 13, 1998 in Volume 48, Page 114 of the Shoreham land records. Permanently attached to the Property is a 1980 Oxford mobile home, serial no. OHM1364 as described in a Vermont Mobile Home Vermont Mobile Home Uniform Bill of Sale from 24 Washington Street Partnership to Christopher L. Welch and Victoria A. Welch dated May 12, 1998 and recorded on May 13, 1998, in Volume 48, Page 116 of the Shoreham land records. The Property may be subject to easements, rights-of-way and other interests of record.

Terms of Sale: The Property will be sold to the highest bidder, who will pay $10,000.00 at sale in cash, certified, treasurer’s or cashier’s check made payable to Thomas Hirchak Company (or by wire transfer, if arrangements for wire transfer are made in advance, confirmation of wire transfer is available before commencement of sale and bidder pays additional fees required for wire transfer), will pay the remaining balance of 10% of the highest bid to Thomas Hirchak Company within five (5) calendar days of the sale and will pay the balance of the highest bid price within fifteen (15) days of the issuance of an Order of Confirmation by the Vermont Superior Court. The successful bidder will be required to sign a Purchase Agreement. Copies are available by calling the telephone number below. If the successful bidder fails to complete the purchase of the Property as required by the Agreement, the $10,000.00 deposit will be forfeited to Plaintiff. The Property is sold “AS IS” and the successful bidder is required to purchase the Property whether or not the Property is in compliance with local, state or federal land use laws, regulations or permits. Title to the Property will be conveyed without warranties

by Order of Confirmation. This sale is exempt from federal lead based hazards disclosure. 24 CFR Section 35.82.

Redemption Benefits of Mortgagor: The mortgagor is entitled to redeem the Property at any time prior to the sale by paying the full amount due under the Mortgage, including the costs and expenses of sale.

Other terms to be announced at the sale or inquire at Thomas Hirchak Company, 1-800-6347653. www.THCAuction.com Dated: February 14, 2017 s/ Robert W. Scharf, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff 3/2

Middlebury man defrauded in phone scam

MIDDLEBURY — Middlebury police on March 1 interviewed a local resident who had apparently been victimized in a recent phone scam.

Police said the victim received a call from a person purporting to represent a company able to retrieve funds the victim had lost in a time-share scam. The victim was told she could get back her money, plus a $5,000 settlement; all she had to do was pay a 33-percent fee.

The company eventually deposited the money into the victim’s account and she was told to pay the 33-percent fee, according to police. The victim paid the fee, but then checked her account balance and found it cleaned out of the settlement and fee amount, according to police.

Police caution residents to beware of such scams, and to never give out personal information until the requester’s identity has been verified.

In other action last week, Middlebury police: • Responded to a report on Feb. 27 of a fire in the Pulp Mill Bridge. Fire Chief Dave Shaw said the caller saw smoke and assumed the bridge was ablaze. In reality, someone had spun their tires inside the

bridge, creating a great deal of smoke, according to Shaw.

• Cited Adrian Moore, 25, of Weybridge for larceny and unlawful mischief on Feb. 27 after he allegedly stole a donation container from a Main Street business.

Police allege Moore took the money from the container and then threw the container

Middlebury Police Log

into the Otter Creek.

• Were informed of a possible sexual assault in the Court Street area on Feb. 27.

• Checked on the welfare of a man who had been pacing on the Cross Street bridge on Feb. 28.

• Investigated the alleged theft of cash from the Courtyard by Marriott on Feb. 28.

• Cited Lee-Ann Kenyon, 50, of Middlebury for driving under the influence, following a stop on Creek Road on Feb. 28. Police said they measured Kenyon’s blood-alcohol content at 0.185 percent;

the legal limit for driving is 0.08.

• Responded to a report of a disabled tractor-trailer unit on Case Street on Feb. 28.

• Responded to a reported fight in progress in the Main Street area on March 1. Police said the “fight” was actually two drunken friends wrestling as a joke. Police said they ensured both men were picked up by a sober party.

• Assisted a local resident who had allegedly been sent a bad check in payment for a snow machine on March 1.

• Received a syringe a citizen had found in the Sugarwood Court area on March 1. Police disposed of the item.

• Assisted Middlebury Regional EMS in caring for an overdose patient on March 2. Police said the woman was alert and breathing well as she was taken to Porter Hospital.

• Helped Vermont State Police take a suspect into custody on Court Street Extension on March 2.

• Helped Middlebury College Public Safety deal with protesters who has been blocking a vehicle on Porter Field Road on March 2.

• Checked into the wellbeing of a man

who seemed “confused” when he got off a bus on Route 7 South on March 2.

• Investigated a report of a barking dog on Seminary Street on March 2.

• Assisted state police at the scene of a crash on Route 30 in Cornwall on March 1.

• Were informed on March 3 that some children had been knocking on a Monroe Street resident’s door and then running away.

• Responded to two separate noise complaints in the Court Street area on March 3.

• Helped serve a restraining order on a person in the North Branch Road area on March 3.

• Received on March 3 a report of an alleged sexual assault that might have taken place in the Middlebury area eight years ago.

• Responded to a truancy complaint at Middlebury Union Middle School on March 3.

• Investigated a report of a white truck racing back and forth on Benedict Lane on March 4.

• Received a wallet that had been found on Merchants Row on March 4.

Special ed teacher accused of fondling a minor MIDDLEBURY — A Shoreham man County Superior Court, criminal divion Feb. 22 pleaded innocent in Addison sion, to a charge of lewd and lascivious conduct with a child, stemming from his alleged contact with a young boy.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Full Passport Service Addison County Courthouse The Addison County Clerk is available to accept passport applications and provide passport photos.

REGULAR HOURS Monday – Friday 9am to 1pm Appointments appreciated, but not necessary.

802-388-1966

ADDISON NORTHWEST SCHOOL DISTRICT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

GREEN MOUNT CEMETERY ASSOCIATION NOTICE OF MEETING

For Cat 6 Wiring & New VoIP Phone System The Addison Northwest School District seeks proposals from interested phone system and wiring companies to rewire 4 school buildings with Cat 6 wiring.

We are also looking for vendor to issue proposals for a new VoIP phone system for the entire district.

Addison Northwest School District, Vergennes, VT to include the following locations: Addison Central School Ferrisburgh Central School Vergennes Union Elementary School Vergennes Union High School For a bid packet, please contact Tonia Mears, Business Manager at 802-8773332 ext. 18 or email at: tmears@ anwsu.org

3/9

STATE OF VERMONT

SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION ADDISON UNIT DOCKET NO: 267-12-15 Ancv CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC., Plaintiff v.

DAVID A. AUBIN; MICHELLE M. FOX; Defendants

NOTICE OF SALE

The accused — Mark Zizis, 41 — has been a special education teacher at the Chittenden Central Supervisory Union for the past 11 years, and he is also a martial arts instructor at Green

By virtue and in execution of the Power of Sale contained in a certain mortgage given

by David A. Aubin and Michelle M. Fox to Mortgage Electronic Registration System, Inc., as nominee for Taylor, Bean & Whitaker Mortgage Corp., its successors and/or assigns, dated May 27, 2009 and recorded in Book 131 at Page 67 of the Town of Ferrisburgh Land Records, of which mortgage the undersigned is the present holder by Assignment of Mortgage recorded on August 13, 2015 in Book 152 at Page 30, for breach of the conditions of said mortgage and for the purpose of foreclosing the same will be sold at Public Auction at 1:30 p.m. on April 4, 2017 at 4234 Ethan Allen Highway, Ferrisburgh, VT 05456 all and singular the premises described in said mortgage, To Wit: Being a parcel of land with all improvements thereon located at 4234 Ethan Allen Highway, so-called, in the Town of Ferrisburgh, County of Addison, and State of Vermont.

Being all and the same lands and premises to be conveyed to David A. Aubin and Michelle M. Fox by the Warranty Deed of Susan Smith-Hunter dated on or about May 27, 2009 and to be recorded in the Land Records of the Town of Ferrisburgh, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all and the same lands and premises conveyed to Susan Smith Hunter and Mel Hunter (now deceased) by Warranty Deed of Robert F. Cosgrove and Constance Cosgrove dated October 5, 1987 and recorded in the Town of Ferrisburgh Land Records in Book 67, Page 133, and being more particularly described therein as follows: “Being all and the same lands and premises conveyed to the within Grantors, by Warranty Deed of Karl DeVine and Beatrice DeVine dated 10/18/78 and recorded in Volume 51, Page 509 of the Ferrisburg Land Records, except for a portion conveyed to the State of Vermont by Warranty Deed of the within Grantors dated 8/16/83 and of record in Volume 57, Page 447 of the Ferrisburg Land Records. In the aforementioned deed from Devine, said parcel was described as follows: ‘Being a parcel of land consisting of 3 acres, more or less, and being described as follows: Beginning at a point on the easterly side of U.S. Route #7, so-called, said point marking a northwesterly corner of the lands and premises herein to be conveyed and a southwesterly corner of the lands and premises of one Chamberlain; thence in a generally easterly direction 206 feet, more or less to a point; thence in a generally northerly direction 99 feet, more or less, to a point; thence in a generally easterly direction 174 feet, more or less, to a point, and contiming in a generally easterly direction along a stock fence 182 feet, more or less, to a point; thence in a generally southerly direction along a stock fence 583 feet, more or less, to a point; thence in a generally westerly direction 303 feet, more or less, to a point; thence in a generally northerly direction along a stock fence 298 feet, more or less, to a point; thence in a generally westerly direction 343 feet, sore or less, to a point on the easterly side of U.S. Route #7, so-called; thence in a generally northerly direction along the easterly side of U.S. Route #7 40 feet, more or less, to the point of beginning.’

Being a part of the lands and premises conveyed to Carl and Beatrice Devine by the following Warranty Deeds:

By Warranty Deed of Roger L. Collins and Aleda N. Collins dated May 22, 1962, and recorded at Book 38 Page 5 of the Ferrisburg Land Records; by Adminstrator’s Deed of Forrest S. Rose, legal guardian of Faith C. DeVine dated November 20, 1961, and recorded at Book 37, Page 528 of the Ferrisburg Land Records.

This conveyance is subject to easements and right of way of record.

Reference is hereby made to the aforementioned instruments, the records thereof and the references therein contained, all in further aid of this description.”

The description of the property contained in the mortgage shall control in the event of a typographical error in this publication.

The public sale may be adjourned one or more times for a total time not exceeding 30 days, without further court order, and without publication or service of a new notice of sale, by announcement of the new sale date to those present at each adjournment or by posting notice of the adjournment in a conspicuous place at the location of the sale.

Terms of Sale: $10,000.00 to be paid in cash or by certified check by the purchaser at the time of sale, with the balance due at closing. The sale is subject to all liens, encumbrances, unpaid taxes, tax titles, municipal liens, if any, which take precedence over the said mortgage above described.

Mortgagor is entitled to redeem the premises at any time prior to the sale by paying the full amount due under the mortgage, including the costs and expenses of the sale.

Other terms to be announced at sale.

Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, Jeffrey J. Hardiman, Esq. Shechtman, Halperin Savage, LLP 1080 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860 401-272-1400 Attorney for Plaintiff jhardiman@shslawfirm.com March 3, 2017 3/9

The Green Mount Cemetery Association will hold a meeting on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Starksboro Town Offices.

Any interested parties are invited to attend.

3/9

NOTICE SHOREHAM RESIDENTS

Be advised that an energy use survey is available at the Town Clerk’s office.

This survey will assist the Shoreham Planning Commission to develop a town plan to meet the goals established by Vermont Act 174 (2016) for reducing greenhouse gases and help home owners save money by becomging energy efficient by 2050.

Your participation is important and your responses will help to direct the process locally.

3/9

Mountain PPS Inti Ombak.

Det. Ruth Whitney of the Addison County Unit for Special Investigations (ACUSI) was lead investigator in the case, which resulted in the lewd and lascivious charge against Zizis.

It was on Feb. 17 that Whitney received a report alleging that “a male between the ages of 7 and 8” had been fondled by Zizis. Officer William Austin of the Middlebury Police Department and Katie Colligan of the Vermont Department for Children & Families joined Whitney in the investigation of Zizis, according to court records.

“The investigation revealed that Zizis should be criminally charged for his actions,” read a press release from ACUSI. Addison County Superior Court Judge Samuel Hoar released Zizis, with conditions, following his Feb. 22 arraignment.

MIDDLEBURY CEMETERY ASSOCIATION PUBLIC NOTICE

The annual meeting of the Middlebury Cemetery Association will be held at the offices of Langrock, Sperry and Wool, 111 S. Pleasant St., Middlebury, VT on Tuesday, 2/27 March 14, 2017 at 5p.m.

PROPOSED STATE RULES By law, public notice of proposed rules must be given by publication in newspapers of record.

The purpose of these notices is to give the public a chance to respond to the proposals. The public notices for administrative rules are now also available online at https://secure.vermont. gov/SOS/rules/ . The law requires an agency to hold a public hearing on a proposed rule, if requested to do so in writing by 25 persons or an association having at least 25 members.

To make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities or special needs please call or write the contact person listed below as soon as possible.

To obtain further information concerning any scheduled hearing(s), obtain copies of proposed rule(s) or submit comments regarding proposed rule(s), please call or write the contact person listed below. You may also submit comments in writing to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, State House, Montpelier, Vermont 05602 (802-828-2231).

Aboveground Storage Tank Rules.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 17P005 AGENCY: Vt. Agency of Natural Resources CONCISE SUMMARY: The proposed revisions to the rule are required by Act No. 76 of 2016, Section 1, which was codified in 10 V.S.A. § 1929a(c). In accordance with the statutory mandate, the revisions would enable the Agency to regulate the installation of new aboveground storage tank systems and substantial alterations of existing tank systems that store petroleum fuel oil (formerly in guidelines within an appendix of the existing rule). The rule would also require periodic tank system inspections, establish criteria for inspection, and create a formal requirement to report certain noncompliance and designate a tank system as noncompliant and unfillable (identification is generally accomplished by affixing a visible “red tag” to the system).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Matthew Moran, Agency of Natural Resources, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 1, Montpelier VT 05620-3704 Tel: 802522-5729 Email: matt.moran@vermont.gov URL: http://dec.vermont.gov/wastemanagement.

FOR COPIES: Marc Roy Agency of Natural Resources 1 National Life Drive, Davis 1, Montpelier VT 05620-3704 Tel: 802-522-0275 Email: marc.roy@vermont.gov.

Investigation and Remediation of Contaminated Properties Rule.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 17P006 AGENCY: Natural Resources, Environmental Cons.

CONCISE SUMMARY: To provide guidance for the investigation and remediation of releases of hazardous materials, and to provide a process which must be utilized for all properties where releases have occurred in a manner which is protective of public health and the environment. The Rule provides the process which must be followed from initial investigation of contaminated properties to final cleanup, remediation, and closure of contaminated properties.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Lynda Provencher, Agency of Natural Resources 1 National Life Drive, Davis 1, Montpelier, VT 05620-3704 Tel: 802-2495562 Email: lynda.provencher@vermont.gov URL: http://http://dec.vermont.gov/ waste-management.

FOR COPIES: Matt Chapman, Agency of Natural Resources 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier VT 05620-3704 Tel: 802-249-4393 Email: matt.chapman@ vermont.gov.

Regulated Drug Rule.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 17P007 AGENCY: Human Services, Department of Health CONCISE SUMMARY: This rulemaking adds new drugs and other chemical substances that are illegal or judged to be potentially fatal or harmful for human consumption unless prescribed and dispensed by a professional licensed to prescribe or dispense them. Examples include acetylfentanyl, a lethal opioid, and newly emerged synthetic recreational drugs. The rule also establishes benchmark dosages for certain drugs to provide a baseline for use by prosecutors to seek enhanced penalties for possession of higher quantities of the drug. The rule simplifies some language for clarity.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Shayla Livingston, Vermont Department of Health 108 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05402 Tel: 802-863-7280 Fax: 802-9511275 Email: ahs.vdhrules@vermont.gov URL: http://healthvermont.gov/regs/index. aspx.

FOR COPIES: David Englander Department of Health 108 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05402 Tel: 802-863-7280 Fax: 802-951-1275 Email: ahs.vdhrules@vermont.gov.

Rule for Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 17P008 AGENCY: Human Services, Department of Health CONCISE SUMMARY: This rulemaking expands capacity for the treatment of opioid dependence by allowing advanced practice registered nurses and physician’s assistants to prescribe buprenorphine to individuals requiring and seeking treatment for opioid dependence. The rule also increases the number of patients a physician may treat from 100 to 275.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Shayla Livingston, Vermont Department of Health 108 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05402 Tel: 802-863-7280 Fax: 802-951-1275 Email: ahs.vdhrules@vermont.gov URL: http://healthvermont.gov/regs/index.aspx.

FOR COPIES: David Englander Department of Health 108 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05402 Tel: 802-863-7280 Fax: 802-951-1275 Email: ahs.vdhrules@vermont.gov.

3/9

Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 9B

Dubois Farm donation to expand size of Dead Creek Wildlife Area ADDISON — A land donation has expanded the Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area in Addison, Vt., one of Vermont’s premiere wildlife hotspots, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. The donation by Dubois Farm, Inc. of

Addison will expand the property by 37 acres, to bring the property to a total of 2,895 acres.

Wildlife management areas are conserved lands throughout Vermont that are owned by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and

are managed for fish and wildlife habitat and wildlife-based recreational access. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area hosts 200 bird species, and is among the most popular destinations in Vermont for birdwatchers and waterfowl hunters.

“We are grateful to the Dubois Farm for donating this land,” said Louis Porter, commissioner of the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. “Their generosity contributes to a growing legacy of conservation that will last for generations.”

The new parcel hosts rare and ecologically important Clayplain forest. These forests contain oak and hickory trees that attract turkeys, gray squirrels, and deer, making them popular destinations for hunters. Because the forest is adjacent to wetlands, it is particularly important for amphibians such as frogs, toads

and salamanders.

“Birdwatchers and hunters have coveted access to this property for many years,” said Porter. “The diversity of bird species found in this forest is incredible for bird enthusiasts. Previous owners closed the land to the public to conduct private turkey hunts. Now, any hunter may access the land to try their luck at calling in a turkey.”

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has a long history of conservation on this newly acquired property. Nearly 40 years ago, the department partnered with The

Auctions DEAD CREEK WILDLIFE Management Area in Addison contains a series of wetlands and is popular with birders and waterfowl hunters.

Photos by Tom Rogers and Steve Dukette

City police seeking to return found bag VERGENNES — Vergennes police are hoping to return a bag found in the lobby of a local bank on March 2 to its owner. Police said the contents of the bag included uniform pants, two bottles of nearly empty Canadian LTD whiskey, and an Alcoholics Anonymous schedule.

They are holding the found property at the city’s North Main Street police station.

In other action between Feb. 27 and March 4, Vergennes police: • On Feb. 27 talked with a woman involved in a dispute with a former roommate who left belongings behind when he moved out more than two months ago; police described the man as homeless. She disposed of the belongings when she did not hear from him, but said he became upset when he learned about her action.

Police said it was a civil matter, but attempted to reach him to ward off any conflict. When they could not, they told the woman to let them know about any issues.

• On Feb. 27 asked Barre police to issue a no-trespass order to a teen who acted suspiciously when he knocked on the door of a Panton Road home; police said he was an acquaintance of a former occupant of the residence.

• On Feb. 27 helped a motorist whose car was disabled near the Small City Market.

• On Feb. 28 tried unsuccessfully to find an oversize truck carrying a modular home on Route 22A in Panton that had been reported to be speeding.

• On Feb. 28 conducted a background check for the Army National

Guard.

• On March 1 responded to an accident at the intersection of Main and School streets; police said an unoccupied car rolled into a fire hydrant.

• On March 1 backed up Vermont State Police at a traffic stop in the Champlain Farms parking lot.

• On March 2 helped a Ferrisburgh

Vergennes Police Log

resident who reported being the victim of identity theft; through documents sent to the resident, police identified a suspect in New Hampshire and alerted authorities there.

• On March 2 were alerted by Porter Hospital that a man with a selfinflicted, but not serious, accidental gunshot wound being treated there was from Vergennes; police learned he had moved to New Haven, where

the incident occurred.

• On March 2 after being asked to keep an eye out for a tractor-trailer truck that nearly caused an accident on Route 22A, stopped the truck; cited its operator for a number of violations, including not keeping an up-to-date logbook; and ordered the truck out of service for 10 hours.

• On March 3 ticketed a driver for possession of marijuana and paraphernalia at a West Main Street traffic stop.

• On March 5 issued 10 tickets to vehicles parked in violation of the city’s wintertime ban on overnight street parking.

• At a March 5 traffic stop on Route 22A in Panton cited the driver and a passenger for possession of marijuana and the driver for speeding.

• On March 5 ticketed a driver for possession of hash oil and paraphernalia at a West Main Street traffic stop.

• On March 5 helped the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad at a Main Street call.

Got Firewood? We Do! *Dry Wood is heated in our Kilns at 200º until the average moisture is down to 20-25% Certified for Vermont Heat Treatment

Tom Broughton Auctioneer • Home • Estates • Commercial • Consignments Bridport, VT • 758-2494 tombroughtonauctions.com

Nature Conservancy in Vermont and local landowners to place a conservation easement on this property after recognizing the forest’s significance to wildlife. That project began a multi-decade partnership between the two organizations that has resulted in many conservation success stories.

Landowners wishing to donate land to be permanently conserved are encouraged to contact the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Anyone can donate to the department’s land conservation efforts by purchasing a 2017 Vermont Habitat Stamp, available at vtfishandwildlife.com.

MARKET REPORT ADDISON COUNTY COMMISSION SALES

RT. 125 • EAST MIDDLEBURY, VT Sales for March 2 & March 6 BEEF J. Fifield P. Livingston Monument Farms Vosterveld Farm Blue Spruce Farm Tudhope Farm Kayhart Bros.

Costs Lbs. per lb 1245 .70 1395 .69 1165 .68 1535 .67 1480 .67 1785 .65 1660 .65

Dollars 871.50 962.55 792.20 1028.45 991.60 1160.25 767.00

CALVES J. Fifield Conants Riverside H. Sunderland Hatch Farm Champlainside

Lbs. 106 101 97 95 101

Costs per lb 1.40 1.30 1.05 1.00 .97

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FAIR HAVEN UNION HIGH SCHOOL WOOD SHOP AUCTION Fair Haven Union High School, in Fair Haven, VT will hold a silent auction of the contents of the former Wood Shop. The auction will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2017, at the Fair Haven Union High School. The bidding will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude with bids closing at 1 p.m. The items available include: lathes, jointers, floor sander, planer, band saws, drill press, as well as many small tools, miscellaneous lumber, and equipment. The purchased items must be removed the day of the sale or an alternate mutually agreed upon time prior to March 17, 2017. All proceeds will benefit the FHUHS Performance Theater.

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WHAT’S ON THE WEB THIS WEEK? Check out our new features and additional content www.addisonindependent.com

PAGE 10B — Addison Independent, Thursday, March 9, 2017

Object thrown at school bus breaks window ADDISON COUNTY — Vermont State Police are trying to find out who threw a heavy object at a school bus full of kids and broke a bus window in Starksboro last week.

On Tuesday, Feb. 28, at approximately 3:45 p.m., a Bet-Cha Transit school bus was transporting children home from school on Big Hollow Road near the Hillside Manor trailer park in Starksboro when an object broke through one of the side windows on the bus causing it to break. Police found that the object, a large marble-size ball.

Police determined that an unknown person in a wooded area near the trailer park had projected the object, a large, marble-size ball, with enough force to break through the window causing minor injury to two of the passengers sitting on the bus.

Anyone who witnessed this incident and/or has information as to who was involved is asked to contact Cpl. Michelle LeBlanc at the New Haven state police barracks at 802-388-4919; anyone could also report a tip online at vsp.vermont.

Vt. State

Police Log

gov/tipsubmit.

In other recent activity, state police: • On March 1 at five minutes past midnight troopers responded to a report that a car had struck a utility pole on Route 30 near Bardon Drive in Cornwall; police were told that two people were seen walking away from the vehicle. With the assistance of Middlebury police, the driver, identified as 24-year-old Emma Angier of New Haven, was located at a nearby residence. Police reported that Angier admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the collision. A preliminary sample of her breath showed a blood alcohol content of 0.084; the legal limit for driving is 0.08. Troopers took Angier to the New Haven state police barracks and cited her for driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident.

Police report that the 2004 Nissan Sentra she was driving was a total

loss and Angier suffered minor abrasions in the crash.

• On March 2 at just before 7 p.m. responded to a report of a domestic assault in Bridport. State police were informed that Brian E. Bishop Jr., 24, of Bridport had placed a family member in fear when he struck a vehicle with an object while the family member was sitting in the vehicle. Troopers took Bishop into custody without incident, cited him for domestic assault and released him with conditions.

• On March 3 at approximately 8:37 a.m. responded to a report of a two-car crash on Route 17 near Sunset Lane in Addison that was bad enough that it closed the road.

Police said their investigation showed that a 1990 farm truck driven by Charles Potter, 70, of Fort Ann, N.Y., entered the intersection of Route 17 and Sunset Lane in front of a 2014 Kia Soul driven by 29-year-old Melissa Ruggles of Lincoln. Troopers report that the Kia was unable to stop or avoid the collision. The local fire department and rescue squad responded to the scene.

Ruggles suffered a serious leg

injury and her car was totaled.

Potter was uninjured and his truck sustained moderate damage.

Route 17 was closed to traffic for approximately two hours.

Police issued Potter a ticket for entering an intersection unsafely and a ticket to Ruggles for driving with a license that was under civil suspension.

• On March 4 at a little past 11:30 p.m. stopped a motor vehicle on Painter Road in Middlebury, after observing several motor vehicle violations. After driver Tracey Cook, 39, of Bristol submitted to standardized field sobriety tests, Cook provided a sample of her breath, which police said showed a blood alcohol content of 0.169 percent; the legal limit for driving is 0.08. The trooper took Cook to the New Haven state police barracks and cited her for driving under the influence, second offense.

• On March 4 at just before midnight stopped a motor vehicle on Route 116 South in Bristol and identified the driver as Alara Bourgeois, 23, of Bristol. Police cited Bourgeois for driving with a criminally suspended license.

Woman cited for DUI after failing sobriety tests Police Log

In other activity from Feb. 13 through 19, Bristol police: • Responded to a Lauritsen Lane residence on Feb. 13 for a man who had fallen out of bed and crawled to the phone to call 911. Police gained access to the locked residence, and the man was transported to Porter Hospital by the Bristol Rescue Squad.

• Assisted a man having a medical issue at a Maple Street residence on Feb. 13. The Bristol officer helped Bristol rescue load the man onto the ambulance for transport to Porter.

• Responded to MAUHS, where a noncompliant 15-year-old student was transported home on Feb. 14.

School staff had made multiple unsuccessful efforts to help the juvenile comply with instructions and return to class. Court action is pending on this juvenile.

• Worked out of the office at Bristol Elementary School on Feb. 14, when the officer visited with students and staff passing to and from lunch and recess.

• Looked for a white dog reported wandering near Bristol Elementary on Feb. 14. Police learned the owner had claimed the dog.

• Worked out of Bristol Elementary office on Feb. 15; the officer visited with students and staff and participated in a jump rope for health activity in the school

FILM SCREENING & DISCUSSION If You or a Loved One Faces the Inevitable, HOPE IS NOT A PLAN.

March 21, 2017 • 6:00 – 8:30 pm Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society 2 Duane Court, Middlebury (parking at MUHS) Free and Open to Public • Light Refreshments Join a dialogue concerning an inescapable reality of life: death. Watch the thought-provoking FRONTLINE documentary Being Mortal, which explores what matters most to patients and families experiencing serious illness.

Film followed by a conversation with Dr. Diana Barnard, Palliative Care Specialist.

A 15% discount on the book Being Mortal will be offered by the Vermont Book Shop for attendees.

Sponsored by: The John and Wauna Harman Foundation in partnership with the Hospice Foundation of America.

Hosted by: The Addison County End of Life Care Partnership and Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society.

R E SPI TE HOM E

For more information call 388-4111 or email lborden@hospicevs.org

multifamily residence. Police met with the parties and referred both to their landlord to resolve the issue.

• Investigated footprints found in the snow leading from a nearby vacant home to a vehicle on the complainant’s Pine Street property.

Police determined that the tracks were made by a large dog. The BPD checked the vacant home and secured it after finding a rear door unlocked.

• Conducted foot patrol on Main Street on Feb. 18.

• Provided back up for Vermont State Police conducting a field sobriety test at a traffic stop on Monkton Road at the intersection of Hardscrabble Road on Feb. 19.

The officer stood by as troopers investigated and arrested a male driver for allegedly driving under the influence of drugs. The Bristol officer remained with the vehicle and passenger until the wrecker service arrived.

• Conducted foot patrol on Main Street and in the town park on Feb. 19.

• Checked police district businesses on Feb. 19.

WITH THE ADDISON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Bristol

gymnasium.

• Responded to south Route 116 to intercept a vehicle involved in a motor vehicle incident on River Road on Feb. 15. A subject reportedly evaded the repossession of his vehicle, nearly ran over the employee of the repossession company and fled the area.

• Investigated a report on Feb. 15 of damage to a truck.

• Received a report from MAUHS on Feb. 16 of a student who had left school after being noncompliant. As a result of this incident and several previous incidents involving this student, an affidavit was forwarded to the State’s Attorney’s Office seeking the involvement of the Department for Children and Families.

• Met with MAUHS staff and other service providers on Feb. 16 to work with the family of a student regarding truancy issues. A plan was developed to improve attendance.

No immediate police action needed.

• Conducted foot patrol on Main Street, meeting with business owners and managers to update security contact information, on Feb. 16.

• Completed a one-hour online class for cell phone examinations on Feb. 17.

• Worked out of the office at Bristol Elementary on Feb. 17.

• Conducted foot patrol and checked downtown businesses on Feb. 17.

• Responded on Feb. 18 to a Mountain Street residence, where two parties were involved in a dispute over parking at a

DISCOVER & EXPLORE

BRISTOL — On the evening of Saturday, Feb. 18, Bristol police arrested Dale Alice Vanleuven, 56, of Bristol and cited her for driving under the influence on Feb. 18.

At 6:57 p.m. an officer observed a traffic violation on Main Street and stopped the vehicle. The officer noted signs of impairment, administered field sobriety exercises and established probable cause to support an arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. A preliminary roadside breath test at 7:12 p.m. showed a blood alcohol content of 0.167 percent; the legal limit for driving is 0.08.

Bristol police report that during processing a breath test at 8:36 p.m. showed Vanleuven’s blood alcohol content was 0.140 percent.

Vanleuven was released with a citation to answer the DUI charge in Addison Superior Court, criminal division, on March 6.

Between Feb. 13 and 19, Bristol police conducted five towncontracted traffic patrols, covering Burpee, Hewitt and Monkton roads and on Route 16 in the area of O’Connor Drive. Police issued one ticket for unsafe starting of a parked vehicle, together with three warnings for speeding, one warning for operating without a license and one warning for a stop sign violation.

Also during that period, officers conducted five security checks at Mount Abraham Union High School. On Feb. 13, an officer found the lock on the front gate damaged; otherwise, the building and grounds were found to be in order.

Food for Brakes

STEVEN AND LISA Dupoise of County Tire recently delivered 881 pounds of non-perishable food to the food shelf at HOPE (Helping Overcome Poverty’s Effects). The food was collected during County Tire’s annual “Food for Brakes” event. HOPE Executive Director Jeanne Montross said her organization is very grateful for the food, especially since use of their food shelf rose by 21 percent during the second half of 2016. The Dupoises said they were appreciative to their customers, who filled the boxes with food.

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For additional information or questions, please contact Sue Hoxie at (802) 388-7951 or email sue@addisoncounty.com

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ARTS+LEISURE

March 9, 2017

The Addison Independent

Bluegrass Gospel Project members (from left) Taylor Armerding, Gene White, Jr., Steve Light, Colby Crehan, Kirk Lord and Paul Miller will play their final concert at the Vergennes Opera House this Saturday evening. The band is group is disbanding after 16 years.

Bluegrass Gospel Project’s sweet farewell

M

usicians are a tricky bunch.

Passionate — yes. Playful — absolutely. Committed to their music — more than anything.

So why is it that so many of our beloved bands break up?

In the case of the Bluegrass Gospel Project, their lead vocalist Colby Crehan is moving west for her husband’s new job at Grand Teton National Park, and the band figured it was as good a time as any to call it quits. They’re playing their last concert this Saturday evening at the Vergennes Opera House.

BY ELSIE LYNN PARINI

“It’s a bitter sweet kind of thing,” said Gene

White, Jr. the BGP’s fiddler and co-founder.

“I’ve been in a lot of bands where the timing of disbanding has been more difficult. When our esteemed female vocalist — Colby — realized she was moving out west for her husband’s new job it kind of struck me: after 16 years it’s pretty rare to have the opportunity to consider disbanding. Usually it turns out kind of — well, not badly necessarily — but it’s so easy to have things go wrong along the way. We talked it over as a group and rather than retrench and revamp, and go through all that again, we figured we’d end on a high note so to speak.

Everyone is good with it.”

“He knew I was recently done with Breakaway (a former band I was in),” explained White. “Jimmy asked me if I would put together a group of people to do one long bluegrass set at First Night. ‘There’s one catch,’ he said ‘I need you to give the group a name that indicates the type of music you’ll be playing.’ Hence the name Bluegrass Gospel Project.

Sixteen years ago, White was approached

by Jimmy Swift, the artistic director of First Night Burlington 2002. He was looking to fill a certain musical niche that was missing in his programming that year — bluegrass.

On New Year’s Eve 16 years ago, the BGP members included Taylor Armerding on mandolin and vocals; Paul Milleron guitar and vocals; Steve Light on banjo, dobro, guitar and

“I probably wouldn’t have named it that had I been making longer plans,” said White. But the First Night gig on the eve of 2002 was a one-shot-deal, and the name represented the style of music.

SEE BGP ON PAGE 2

PAGE 2 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

BGP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

vocals; Gene White, Jr. on fiddle, guitar, percussion and vocals; Jim DiSabito on upright bass and vocals; and Andy Green on guitar and vocals. Also joining the group that night were Armerding’s son Jake (on fiddle, guitar and vocals) and vocalist Patti Casey, who immediately became a full-time band member after the show.

Guitarist Andy Greene left the group in 2006, and then in the fall of 2007, BGP had their one and only personnel change. Casey, a native of Vergennes, decided to focus on her own singer-songwriter career, and DiSabito, of Rutland, was offered a job in Florida that he couldn’t refuse.

So the band auditioned for vocalists and bass. Kirk Lord, of Essex, joined on upright bass and singer songwriter Crehan, of Burlington, became the band’s featured female vocalist.

assume a certain evangelist agenda.” But it’s not like that. “It’s like gospel light... It’s not superheavy duty religious; it’s spiritual songs from the southern Appalachians.”

Since their debut appearance before a full house at Burlington’s Flynn Theater for First Night 2002, the group has logged thousands of miles performing hundreds of concerts throughout the Northeast. They are especially excited to present

“EACH YEAR THEIR VOICES HAVE FILLED THE HALL WITH SUCH LIFE THAT YOU CAN FEEL THE OLD BONES OF THE BUILDING SIGHING WITH GRATITUDE.”

— Gerianne Smart

filled the hall with such life that you can feel the old bones of the building sighing with gratitude.”

“We’ve had such an extraordinarily good relationship with the people who run the Vergennes Opera House, and the acoustics of the room are superior,” said White, explaining why they chose the local venue for their last performance. “We’ve played there for at least 10 years,” he said.

The Opera House also let’s them do recordings in the space. “We’re all spread out,” said White, noting band members who live in Boston, Plattsburgh, N.Y., Woodbury, Vt., and Chittenden County. “For us, physically getting together is difficult, so when we are together, it’s a good time to do some recording or serious rehearsal.”

Speaking of recordings, BGP will be releasing their seventh and final full-length recording this weekend at the show. The new album, “Delivered,” is a compilation of yet-unreleased songs performed at concerts between 2014 and 2016.

Find this record and their previous six on their website, www.bluegrassgospelproject.com.

So, what’s next?

“There’s usually a lot more turnover,” said White, acknowledging that being a part of BGP is no small task. “It’s a big commitment, but we play good gigs. Our sort of secondary motto is ‘no lousy gigs.’”

White attributes the high retention rate to these “good gigs” — mostly high quality concert venues — and the talents of the singers. “Colby is just an amazing singer,” he said. “The three primary vocalists (Paul, Taylor and Colby) — have an extraordinary vocal blend.”

BGP plays predominately traditional southern bluegrass gospel covers. “Honestly [the name Bluegrass Gospel music] puts as many people off as it does attract them,” said White. “They

one final concert in Vergennes where they will weave stories and memories into an evening of incredible music.

The BGP will bid those lucky enough to get tickets farewell at the Vergennes Opera House on Saturday, March 11, at 7:30 p.m. Unfortunately for the rest of us, this show is completely sold out.

The theater has an occupancy limit of 300, but a capacity of about 275 “comfortably,” said Gerianne Smart, president of the Friends of the Vergennes Opera House. “We are overjoyed the Bluegrass Gospel Project chose the Vergennes Opera House as their final venue... Each year their voices have

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Most of the band members (now in their 50s and 60s) will continue playing in other groups, but not White.

“I think I’m first taking a break,” said the 62-yearold Essex Junction resident. “I’ve been in bands continuously since I was 18. Sure I took a year off here and there, but I’m ready for a break for a little while.”

As White looks forward to a quieter schedule, that prospect is bittersweet.

“After this many years of traveling around and playing together… I’m going to miss it, that’s for sure.”

did you know?

WHEN HE’S NOT PLAYING THE FIDDLE, GENE WHITE JR. IS A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR FOR BLODGETT, WATTS AND VOLK — A SMALL LEGAL FIRM IN BURLINGTON.

Addison Independent

ART

Hieronymus Bosch GREAT ART WEDNESDAYS EXPLORES THE CURIOUS AND UNCONVENTIONAL WORK OF A RENAISSANCE MASTER

T

he latest installment in Town Hall Theater’s Great Art Wednesdays series is “The Curious World of Hieronymus Bosch,” a compelling look into Bosch’s creations: fantastical, detailed and often utterly bizarre. Known best for his sprawling triptych, “The Garden of Earthly Delights,” the Dutch painter was the quintessential master of the Early Netherlandish painting school, with work that spanned the latter half of the 15th century and often featured richly painted landscapes and depictions of religious subjects.

“The Curious World of Hieronymus Bosch” features the exhibition ‘Jheronimus Bosch — Visions of Genius’ at Het Noordbrabants Museum in the southern Netherlands, which brought the majority of Bosch’s paintings and drawings together for the first time to his home town of Den Bosch and attracted

almost half a million art lovers from all over the world. The documentary is directed by David Bickerstaff and features insight from Peter Greenaway and art critic Rachel Campbell-Johnston.

Who was Hieronymus Bosch? Why do his strange and fantastical paintings resonate with people now more than ever? How does he bridge the medieval and Renaissance worlds? Where did his unconventional and timeless creations come from? Discover the answers to these questions this Wednesday at the Town Hall Theater in Middlebury.

“The Curious World of Hieronymus Bosch” will be screened at Town Hall Theater on Wednesday, March 15 at 11 a.m. Tickets are $10; $5 students.

Tickets may be purchased at www. townhalltheater.org, (802) 382-9222, at the THT box office, or at the door Monday-Saturday, 12-5 p.m. or an hour before show time.

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 3

PAGE 4 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

IN TOWN Mount Abe students exhibit art Stay fresh.

Custom ads for every customer.

Call us today.

802-388-4944 ads@addisonindependent.com

8TH ANNUAL EMERGING ARTISTS SHOW COMES TO ART ON MAIN IN BRISTOL

A

rt on Main presents the 8th annual Emerging Artists Show from March 10-26. In celebration of Youth and Art Month the exhibit will feature the work of over 20 Mount Abe High School students in grades 9-12. The student artists were invited to submit their work on the basis of their artistic talent and dedication to creating art as well as their potential as future artists. The mediums represented will include photography, painting, drawing, jewelry, felting, comics and others.

through Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m., closed on Monday. For more information call (802) 453-4032 or visit artonmain.net.

meet the artists When: Tuesday, March 14, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Where: Art on Main, Bristol What: Meet the artists and their teacher Elise Cleary. Light refreshments served. Free.

Come to an opening reception on Tuesday, March 14 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Art on Main in Bristol. All are welcome to attend, meet the artists, teacher Elise Cleary and enjoy light refreshments.

Art on Main is located at 25 Main Street in Bristol.

Winter hours are Tuesday

Pen and ink drawing by Marah Orvis

Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 5

IN TOWN ‘The Color of Light’ exhibit opens in Middlebury PHOTOGRAPHER ARTHUR MEYERSON SELECTS 35 IMAGES FOR VIEW AT PHOTOPLACE GALLERY

P

hotoPlace Gallery opens “The Color of Light” — a new group exhibit exhibit juried by Arthur Meyerson — this Saturday. The exhibit features 35 selected photographs from around the world. An opening reception will be held at PhotoPlace Gallery, 3 Park Street in Middlebury, on SATURDAY MARCH Saturday, March 11, PhotoPlace Gallery, Middlebury from 5-7 p.m.

11

“The three themes that interest me the most in photography are light, color and moments,” said Meyerson in his artist statement. “Any one of those elements can yield a strong photograph. Any combination of two of them might produce something special and a mixture of all three can lead to something extraordinary.

“In selecting the photographs for this exhibit, I was looking for those elements along with some original seeing as well as craftsmanship.

Not manipulated photographs that were about effects, but photographs that were effective.

Those that make us stop and look. Those that keep us coming back for more. Those that stay with us.”

Meyerson travels the world photographing for advertising, corporate, and editorial clients. His

CUTLINE: IMAGE BY ARTHUR MEYERSON

fascination with light, color and the moment culminated in 2012 in his book, The Color of Light. His photographs are in the public collections of several major institutions and have been exhibited internationally. His new book, The Journey, is set to be published in 2017. Meyerson also conducts photography

workshops in Maine and Santa Fe, NM. The 35 selected images will be on display at the Middlebury gallery, another 40 are published on the gallery’s website photoplacegallery.com. All 75 images will be reproduced in the exhibition catalog.

one two three THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS WEEK CHILI FEST IN MIDDLEBURY

EAGLE HUNTRESS

The 9th annual Vermont Chili Festival will take place on Main Street and Merchants Row, in SATURDAY MARCH Middlebury this Saturday from 1-4 p.m. Come sample over 50 chilis, enjoy live music, entertainment, merchandise and shopping downtown. The Better Middlebury Partnership is happy to host this fun, community event again this year. Tickets are $8 at the gate or $6 in advance. Advance tickets can be found at local retail locations as well as online at vtchilifest.com. For more info, contact Karen at Karen@bettermiddleburypartnership.org, call (802) 345-1366.

Coming this Sunday, March 12, 2 p.m., is the delightful and highly acclaimed documentary, “The Eagle SUNDAY MARCH Huntress.” This is director Otto Bell’s first feature and a remarkable film that appeals to audiences of all ages. An enchanting portrait of a quietly determined 13-year old Kazakh girl, Aisholpan. “The Eagle Huntress” beautifully captures her quest to buck the ancient, male-only tradition of hunting with eagles in Mongolia. This film has also been named to the Academy Awards shortlist.

Tickets are $12 and are available at the Town Hall Theater Box Office. Call (802) 382-9222 or visit www.townhalltheater.org for more info.

11

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BUTI YOGA WITH VANESSA Buti Yoga is a blend of tribal dance, power yoga and strength training. Come get connected with your core through breath, movement SUNDAY MARCH and a playlist that’ll have you shaking out whatever needs shaking.

Vanessa Dunleavy, Middlebury native, will lead this Buti Yoga Beginner class at Otter Creek Yoga on Sunday, March 12, from 12:30-2 p.m. $10 drop in.

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PAGE 6 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

CALENDAR top pick

ACTIVE

THE UMPTEENTH ANNUAL 5K NORDIC CITIZENS RACE IS COMINIG TO RIKERT NORDIC CENTER IN RIPTON ON SUNDAY. REGISTER FOR THE CLASSIC OR SKATE RACES, OR IF YOU’RE 3-6 YEARS OLD SIGN UP FOR THE LOLLIPOP RACE. WEAR A COSTUME! STAY FOR PRIZES, MUSIC AND BBQ LUNCH. More info www.rikertnordic.com.

2017 BREAD LOAF CITIZENS RACE IN RIPTON. Sunday, March 12, 11 a.m. (classic race) and 11:10 a.m. (skate race). The umpteenth annual 5K Nordic Citizens Race will be held at Rikert Nordic Center. Race day registration from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. or pre-register at www.rikertnordic.com.

Registration fee is $5 for kids ages 7-12; $10 for ages 13+ or $25 for a family. Lollipop race for kids ages 3-6 begins at 10:30 a.m. Wear a costume! Spandex is highly recommended.

Prizes will be given for the top finishers and best costumes. Fun, music and BBQ lunch included. All proceeds will be donated to nonprofit organizations with a focus on outdoor winter recreation for all ages. For more information contact Rikert Nordic Center at 443-2744.

ANIMALS OPEN BARN IN WEYBRIDGE. Sunday, March 12, noon-5 p.m., Duclos and Thompson Farm, Sheep Farm Road (watch for the sign on Route 23). Join us for the 34th annual Open Barn with over 200 lambs and more born daily. Enjoy the barn mural by local artist Danielle Rougeau.

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ARTS OPENING RECEPTION IN MIDDLEBURY. Friday, March 10, 5-7 p.m., Sheldon Museum.

Opening reception for the Sheldon Museum’s new exhibit “Focus on the Sheldon: A Five-Point Perspective.” Five local Middlebury-area photographers explored the collections of the Henry Sheldon Museum and found a wealth of inspiring material.

ADVANCED DRAWING EXHIBIT IN MIDDLEBURY. Tuesday, March 14, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Johnson Memorial Building, mezzanine.

Diverse drawing techniques and approaches on view in this exhibit from ART300, taught

by Hedya Klein. While students began with the same prompt, problem or question, their creative responses are worlds apart. The works produced in this class is varied in both content and technique. Sponsored by the Program in Studio Art. Free.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

WHAT YOU WANT TO DO MARCH 9-19, 2017

“THE CURIOUS WORLD OF HIERONYMUS BOSCH” SCREENING IN MIDDLEBURY. Wednesday, March 15, 11 a.m., Town Hall Theater. The latest installment in Town Hall Theater’s Great Art Wednesdays will screen “The Curious World of Hieronymus Bosch,” a compelling look into Bosch’s creations.

Tickets $10/$5 students. Tickets may be purchased at www.townhalltheater.org, 802382-9222 at the THT box office or at the door Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.

CRAFTS “PUSHING THE ENVELOPE” WORKSHOP IN MONKTON. Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m.noon, Monkton Friends Methodist Church in the Ridge. Participants will make a special book out of envelopes, which will be created by hand. All materials will be provided. The book model was inspired by a travel album the librarians discovered in Dr. Russell’s collection. Hosted by the Russell Memorial Library. To reserve a space or for more information, call 453-4471.

DANCE TRADITIONAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY MUSIC AND DANCE CONCERT IN MIDDLEBURY. Sunday, March 12, 4 p.m., McCullough Student Center, Middlebury College. Piper Timothy Cummings will join colleagues Pete Sutherland and Dominique Dodge, along with special guests Jeremiah McLane and Mary Wesley in a free concert celebrating the traditional music and dance of Ireland and Vermont.

FILM “CEREMONY” FILM IN BRISTOL. Thursday, March 9, 7-8:30 p.m., Lawrence Memorial Library. Filmmaker and energy healer Sas Carey will share and discuss her film “Ceremony,” which witnesses the spiritual journey and practice of a shaman in northern Mongolia. This free event will be hosted by the One World Library Project. For more information, contact the Lawrence Memorial Library at 453-2366 or go to www. oneworldlibraryproject.org.

“12 YEARS A SLAVE” DISCUSSION IN CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Addison Independent

MIDDLEBURY. Friday, March 10, 12:15 p.m., Middlebury College Museum of Art. Professors of History William Hart and Amy Morsman, accompanied by two of their students, will recount the fabulous and dramatic history that links a college alumnus, Class of 1829, to the narrative of the film “12 Years a Slave.”

“12 YEARS A SLAVE” SCREENING IN MIDDLEBURY. Friday, March 10, 7 p.m., Robison Concert Hall, Mahaney Center for the Arts, Middlebury College. Academyaward winning film, “12 Years a Slave” will be screened. Free and open to the public.

“OUR LITTLE SISTER” SCREENING IN MIDDLEBURY. Saturday, March 11, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., Dana Auditorium. After the death of their estranged father, three 20-something siblings invite their 14-year-old half-sister to live with them at their grandmother’s house. In Japanese with English subtitles.

Sponsored by the Hirschfield International Film Series. (Hirokazu Koreeda, Japan, 2015, 128 minutes) Free.

MNFF WINTER SCREENING SERIES IN MIDDLEBURY. Sunday, March 12, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater. The Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival winter screening series presents “The Eagle Huntress,” the delightful and highly acclaimed documentary from Director Otto Bell. Tickets $12 for an individual film. The series pass, good for all five films, is $50. Info: 802-382-9222 or townhalltheater.org.

LECTURE ILLUSTRATED LECTURE IN MIDDLEBURY. Thursday, March 9, 4:30 p.m., Mahaney Center for the Arts, Room 125. Richard Saunders, Middlebury College museum director, will present an illustrated lecture titled “Making Sense of our Selfie Nation.”

“A HISTORY OF FLOWER PAINTINGS THROUGH THE AGES” DISCUSSION IN MIDDLEBURY. Tuesday, March 14, 1 p.m., Residence at Otter Creek. Enjoy a slide presentation and discussion by a gardening expert of paintings by famous artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Claude Monet, Picasso, Gustav Klimt, Georgia O’Keefe and other American artists. An ever-blooming flower show on canvas. Free and open to the public.

Info: middleburygardenclub.org.

PANEL DISCUSSION IN MIDDLEBURY. Wednesday, March 15, noon, Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History. Five photographers from the “Focus on the Sheldon: A Five-Point Perspective” exhibit will participate in a panel discussion led

by Pieter Broucke, Middlebury College

Professor of Art and Architecture.

MUSIC NOONDAY RECITAL IN MIDDLEBURY. Thursday, March 9, 12:15-12:45 p.m., St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Join us for a noonday Lenten recital with Emily Sunderman, violinist and George Matthew Jr., organist, playing Bach and Tchaikovsky.

Bring a lunch. Event is free.

DORIC STRING QUARTET IN MIDDLEBURY. Thursday, March 9, 7:30 p.m., Mahaney Center for the Arts. The U.K.-based Doric String Quartet will play their Middlebury debut with works from Mendelssohn and Schubert. Free.

BLUEGRASS GOSPEL PROJECT IN VERGENNES. Saturday, March 11, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House. The Bluegrass Gospel Project will celebrate with one final concert at the Vergennes Opera House. Tickets $25 in advance; $30 at the door. For more information visit www. vergennesoperahouse.org.

PATRICK FITZSIMMONS AND FRIENDS IN LINCOLN. Saturday, March 11, 7:30 p.m., Burnham Hall, 52 River Road. Singersongwriter Patrick Fitzsimmons and friends will be performing for the Burnham Music Series. The cost is $10 for adults; teens and kids are free. Refreshments will be served.

For more information, call 388-6863.

FORMOSA STRING QUARTET IN MIDDLEBURY. Sunday, March 12, 4-6 p.m., Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society. Capital City Concerts presents Formosa String Quartet joined by flutist Karen Kevra and pianist Paul Orgel. Tickets $15-25. Info: www.capitalcityconcerts.org.

NOONDAY RECITAL IN MIDDLEBURY. Thursday, March 16, 12:15-12:45 p.m., St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Join us for a noonday Lenten recital with Elizabeth Read McQuillan, first violist of the Middlebury Opera. Bring a lunch. Event is free.

SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES VERMONT CHILI FESTIVAL IN MIDDLEBURY. Saturday, March 11, 1-4 p.m., downtown Middlebury. The Better Middlebury Partnership presents the ninth annual Vermont Chili Festival with over 50 chilies to sample, live music and entertainment.

Tickets $8 at gate or $6 in advance or online at vtchilifest.com. For more info email Karen@bettermiddleburypartnership.org or call 802-345-1366.

SEE CALENDAR ON PAGE 13

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 7

PAGE 8 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

Meet the chef

Rob Fenn from Jessica’s at the Swift House

If

anyone knows Middlebury’s food scene, it’s Rob Fenn, head chef at The Swift House Inn’s restaurant, Jessica’s. “I’m originally from Middlebury, I grew up here,” he said.

Fenn started his cooking career at Angela’s restaurant, now Two Brother’s Tavern, when he was still in high school.

After a stint out west, cooking his way through national parks, Fenn came back to the Waybury Inn’s kitchen in East Middlebury. He’s headed kitchens since he was 24 years old, and now, 20 years since he first started in the business, his food keeps locals coming back.

BY EMMA COTTON

“People have their favorites,” said Swift House owner Dan Brown. “Every time I go to the gym and see Bob there, he asks me whether the Thai pasta is back on the menu. If we took the crab cakes off, there’d be a revolution among a group of people.”

Jessica’s Restaurant was created in 2010 as a divergence from the Modified American Plan, a traditional structure in which inns and hotels offer overnight guests two comped meals at an inhouse restaurant. Dan and Michele Brown, who had acquired the Swift House Inn several years earlier, wanted to nix that structure and invite locals through the restaurant doors. That’s when they recruited Fenn.

“Rob was the impetus for a big change,” Brown said. “He came to the inn in 2010, and with that, we named the restaurant ‘Jessica’s’ instead of just being the Swift House Inn. We built a deck, we created a more casual atmosphere, we did some new furnishings and eventually transitioned in a new ceiling.

Rob created a whole new, much more extensive menu.”

Jessica’s — named after Jessica Swift, whose family owned the Swift House property for 109 years — offers classics, like the Swift Burger, pork chops and

Chef Rob Fenn makes the “classics stand out” at Jessica’s, the Swift House Inn’s restaurant in Middlebury.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO/TRENT

T CAMPBELL

Addison Independent

crab cakes. Fenn puts an emphasis on sourcing locally and creating menu items based on in-season produce. “My philosophy is to use the best quality ingredients that we can find,” he said. “A lot of times, those are local ingredients.”

sommelier. Jacobeit is now in charge of the wine lists at two world-class restaurants in New York City — Tribeca Grill and Bâtard — and has been featured in Wine & Spirits magazine. “He took our wine list to another level,” Brown said.

But what makes the classics stand out, according to Dan Brown, is Fenn’s sauces. On the current menu, the salmon sports a caramelized ginger and maple glaze, and the pork chops are coated in a demi-glace made with apple cider and bourbon.

Jessica’s new sommelier, David Herren, has kept the wine selection on par. “I’ve noticed that David, since he’s come on in September, has been putting some polish on the wine menu and getting his own spin on things, which is exciting to see again,” Fenn said. “It’s really hard to find a passionate person to come in and understand the profiles of wine, and be able to pair them with our cuisine here. Not only do you need to be able to know the wine, you need to know our cuisine.”

“Our dish washer probably doesn’t like this much, but we make all of our sauces to order, to the dish, using mother sauces,” Fenn said. “They do tend to tie the dish together.” With three people at most staffing the kitchen, he gets the final say on all components of the customer’s plate.

The restaurant scores well off the plate, too. For those on the lookout for some killer vino, Jessica’s has you covered. The restaurant has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for seven straight years — an award available only to venues whose wine lists “offer at least 90 selections and feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style,” according to Wine Spectator’s website.

Brown credits the class of the wine list to Jason Jacobeit, who worked at Jessica’s out of college as the restaurant’s first

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 9

The wine, in tandem with a menu that features both casual fare and high-end classics, matches the vision that Brown first imagined when he opened Jessica’s.

Pleased with Fenn’s handiwork in the kitchen, he hopes locals and visitors can find common ground at his restaurant.

“That’s what Rob’s been able to do, is balance a menu that satisfies whoever comes in,” he said. “If it’s a 50th wedding anniversary, this is comfortable place to be. If it’s somebody that’s coming in before the theater, and they just want to grab a salad and a hamburger, that works. What I’m very proud of is that we’re able to create a casual, go-to restaurant with a great chef and a great wine list that’s all affordable.”

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PAGE 10 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

T HEATER

OWN HALL

Merchants Row, Middlebury, VT Tickets: 802-382-9222 www.townhalltheater.org

Thu 3/9 7pm $17/$10 Students NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE

HEDDA GABLER

Just married. Buried alive. Hedda longs to be free...

Ruth Wilson (The Affair) stars in Ivo Van Hove’s (A View from the Bridge) modern production of Ibsen’s masterpiece.

Sat 3/11 1pm $24/$10 Students MET LIVE IN HD

LA TRAVIATA

Sonya Yoncheva sings one of opera’s most beloved heroines, the tragic courtesan Violetta, with the great Plácido Domingo as Germont. Pre-show talk in the Byers Studio at 12:15 courtesy of the Opera Company of Middlebury.

Sun 3/12 2pm $12 MNFF WINTER SCREENING SERIES

THE EAGLE HUNTRESS

A major crowd pleaser at Sundance, this portrait of a 13-year-old girl from Asia’s Altai Mountains who defied eons of tradition by learning to hunt with fierce golden eagles appeals to audiences of all ages.

Wed 3/15 11am $10/$5 Students GREAT ART WEDNESDAYS

THE CURIOUS WORLD OF HIERONYMUS BOSCH

Delve into the vivid imagination of a true visionary.

This remarkable new film features the critically acclaimed exhibition which attracted half a million art lovers worldwide.

Sat 3/25 1pm $24/$10 Students MET LIVE IN HD

IDOMENEO

The classic Jean-Pierre Ponnelle production and music direction by James Levine highlight Mozart’s first operatic masterpiece, with Matthew Polenzani in the title role.

Pre-show talk in the Byers Studio at 12:15

Sun 3/26 4pm $15/$10 Seniors/$5 Students CHAMPLAIN PHILHARMONIC

A SPRING CELEBRATION WITH THE MASTERS Featuring Cello soloist McKinley James, the orchestra performs Bizet, Ravel & Saint-Saëns.

NOW ACCEPTING DONATIONS FOR

LIGHTS! CAMERA! AUCTION!

Downsizing? Do you have something wonderful sitting in a corner gathering dust? The THT auction plays a major role in supporting the wide range of events and educational opportunities at THT. On-line auction begins on May 15. The festive live auction is June 17. To make a donation, call 802 388-1436 or email executivedirector@townhalltheater.org

EXHIBITS ADVANCED DRAWING EXHIBIT IN MIDDLEBURY. On exhibit Tuesday, March 14, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., featuring diverse drawing techniques and approaches from Middlebury College students in Kedya Klein’s ART300 class. Johnson Memorial Building, mezzanine, Middlebury College. Free.

(802) 443-5000.

AMERICAN FACES: A CULTURAL HISTORY OF PORTRAITURE AND IDENTITY. On exhibit Feb. 17–April 30 featuring 90 portraits from more than 20 collections exploring why Americans have been fascinated with images of themselves. The Middlebury College Museum of Art, located in the Mahaney Center for the Arts on Route 30, Middlebury. (802) 443-5007 or museum.middlebury.edu.

A VISUAL RECORD: RECENT WORK BY MARILYN GILLIS. On exhibit Jan. 27-March 12, featuring Marilyn Gillis’ mixed media, book arts and fabric sculptures. Creative Space Gallery, 214 Main Street, Vergennes. (802) 8773850 or www.creativespacegallery.org.

DICK KIRBY: METAL MADNESS. On exhibit March 3-April 30, featuring a one-man show of artist-designed steel works such as lamps, weathervanes, candle holders and coat racks. An opening reception will be held at the gallery on Friday, March 3, 5-7 p.m. Brandon Artists Guild, 7 Center Street, Brandon. (802) 247-4956 or brandonartistsguild.org.

FOCUS ON THE SHELDON: A FIVE-POINT PERSPECTIVE. On exhibit March 7-May 13, featuring five Middlebury-area photographers’ exploration of the collections of the Henry Sheldon Museum. An opening reception will be held at the museum on Friday, Mach 10, 5-7 p.m. Henry Sheldon Museum, 1 Park St, Middlebury. (802) 388-2117 or henrysheldonmuseum.org.

GRACE MELLOW: NOT FOR SHOW. On exhibit March 2-April 9 featuring Grace Mellow’s gouache and pastel experimental figurative drawings.

Northern Daughters Gallery, 221 Main Street, Vergennes. (802) 877-2173 or www.northerndaughters.com.

PRELUDE TO SPRING: BOTANICAL ART IN VERMONT. On exhibit Feb. 17-April 1, featuring the work of three of Vermont’s nest botanical artists: Bobbi Angell, Susan Bull Riley and Stephanie Whitney-Payne. Compass Music and Arts Center is located in Park Village at 333 Jones Drive, Brandon. (802) 247- 4295 or www.cmacvt.org.

RE-IMAGINE THE BRAIDED RUG. On exhibit, Feb. 4-April 29, featuring the work of West Fairlee rug braider Delsie Hoyt. Vermont Folklife Center, 88 Main St, Middlebury. (802) 388-4964 or www. vermontfolklifecenter.org.

SANFORD FARRIER: POSTERS FOR PLAYS NOT YET WRITTEN. On exhibit March 11–April 1, featuring large scale posters designed by graphic designer and Middlebury College graduate Sanford Farrier.

Jackson Gallery at Town Hall Theater, Middlebury. (802) 382-9222 or www. townhalltheater.org.

UNTOUCHED BY TIME: THE ATHENIAN ACROPOLIS FROM PERICLES TO PARR. On exhibit Jan. 10-April 23, featuring early archaeological publications, antiquarian paintings, drawings and prints, as well as photographs, books, and more recent images that are all drawn from collections at Middlebury. Together they bear testimony to the fascination with the Acropolis that has prevailed from the Enlightenment to the present. Middlebury College Museum of Art, 72 Porter Field Road, Middlebury. (802) 443-5007.

HAVE AN EXHIBIT YOU WANT PUBLISHED?

let us know

NEWS@ADDISONINDEPENDENT.COM

Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 11

MUSIC Patrick Fitzsimmons plays Lincoln Music Series

P

atrick Fitzsimmons will perform for the Burnham Music Series in Lincoln on Saturday, March 11, at 7:30 p.m. This singer-songwriter will be on stage with Becca Kodis, Carl Boss and Geoff Doubleday. Special guests include Nate Gusakov, Mike Dever and Deb Tier.

As a young boy, Fitzsimmons Burnham Hall, Lincoln loved the singersongwriters of the ’70s like Cat Stevens, Paul Simon and James Taylor. The Sparta, N.J., native started a

SATURDAY 11 MARCH

band with two classmates in high school that eventually became “From Good Homes — a folk/rock band signed to RCA Records in the mid ‘90s. The band recorded three CDs and toured the country, sharing the stage with Bob Dylan, Dave Matthews Band, Hootie and the Blowfish and others. In 1999, the band broke up and Fitzsimmons moved to Vermont to begin his solo career.

independent films. He’s been touted by Relix Magazine as “one of the most captivating songwriters around today.”

Patrick is a 2011 and 2012 Solarfest national songwriting contest finalist and a three-time Ploughshares national songwriting contest finalist. He has had his songs placed in several

Catch his act this Saturday at Burnham Hall, 52 River Road in Lincoln. Tickets are $10 for adults; teens and kids are free. Refreshments will be served. For more info, call (802) 388-6863.

Fitzsimmons has shared the stage with some of the acoustic music scene’s biggest names, including Shawn Colvin, Dar Williams, Roger McGuinn, Ellis Paul and Vance Gilbert. He continues to tour throughout the northeast.

Piper Timothy Cummings leads concert for St. Patrick’s Day SUNDAY

12 MARCH

Middlebury College affiliate artist Timothy Cummings (bagpipes, whistles) will join Pete Sutherland (fiddle, song) and Dominique Dodge (harp, song), along with special

guests Jeremiah McLane (accordion, piano) and Mary Wesley (dance caller) in a free concert celebrating the traditional music and dance of Ireland and Vermont on Sunday at McCullough Student Center on the Middlebury College campus.

Audience members can expect a program of instrumentals, audienceinclusive songs and participatory folk dances. Don’t want to dance? Don’t worry, just come and listen.

Catch Timothy Cummings and

Guests Sunday, March 12, at 4 p.m., at Middlebury College’s McCullough Student Center, in Wilson Hall. Free and open to the public.

For more info call (802) 443-5221 or visit www.middlebury.edu/arts.

Quartet plays free concert at the Mahaney Center for the Arts THURSDAY 9 MARCH Over the past decade, the Doric String Quartet has been a rising star on the chamber music scene, taking its place among the finest quartets of its generation. The U.K.-based

ensemble comes to Middlebury for the first time on Thursday, March 9 with a free 7:30 p.m. concert at the Mahaney Center for the Arts. The program will include Mendelssohn’s Quartet in E-flat Major, the Lyric Suite

by Berg and Schubert’s dramatic G

Major quartet.

This free concert is made possible with support from the Sunderman Family Concert Endowment Fund, in memory of Dr. F. William Sunderman Jr. and Dr. Carolyn Reynolds

Sunderman. Admission is free, and no tickets are required. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so come early.

For more info, call (802) 443-6433 or visit www.middlebury.edu/arts.

live music DAN EVANS. Thursday, March 9, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music.

MELLOW YELLOW. Saturday, March 11, 3-6 p.m., 51 Main, Middlebury.

BLUES JAM. Wednesday, March 15, 8-10 p.m., 51 Main, Middlebury.

ANTHONY SANTOR TRIO. Friday, March 17, 7-9 p.m., 51 Main, Middlebury.

O’HANLEIGH. Saturday, March 18, 7:30-9:30 p.m., 51 Main, Middlebury.

The Doric String Quartent will perform a free concert at Mahaney Center for the Arts in Middlebury this evening at 7:30 p.m.

PAGE 12 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

the movie A UNITED KINGDOM — RUNNING TIME: 1:51 — RATING: PG-13 A United Kingdom is a powerful story rooted in racism in reverse. If the movie weren’t historically accurate, it might have been labelled “too good to be true,” but it did happen, and in just this way.

This fine movie was directed with great care and skill by director Amma Asante from a script by Guy Hibbert and a book by Susan Williams. Time, characters, and location may be different from those of today but the clash of cultural dictates — then and now — comes from the same hurt that racial hatred inflicts wherever it survives.

Time: 1947. Location: Africa and England. Characters: Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo) and Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike). Seretse was sent from Africa to London by his uncle (Vusi Kunene) for the education that would equip him for his hereditary role as king of the British protectorate of Bechuanalanda, later to become Botswana. When the future king meets Ruth Williams, a white woman who works as an office worker, they fall in love with scant understanding of the international eruptions their marriage will cause. They love jazz, dancing, and each other and they spend little time thinking about the future.

Actors Oyelowo and Pike create a couple we care very much about, and we marvel that their story unfolded seventy years ago. In a grim echo of today, the rage of the British government and their families creates the turmoil that nearly dooms his reign.

When Seretse’s uncle (Vusi Kunene) summons him home with the announcement that his reign is to begin, the trouble begins. Ruth’s father rages at her marrying a black man and disowns her. Seretse’s uncle is livid that he is marrying a white woman. That’s the equation and while it plays out differently in England and Africa, the hurt is deep on both sides.

Director Amma Asante and actor David Oyelowo, both born in the U.K., clearly saw this true story in the same way: a married couple with love of country, love of each other, and a shared determination to bring this educated, qualified leader to the throne he had been preparing to occupy throughout his life.

The genuinely appealing thing is that neither he nor she ever wavers.

No second thoughts for her about marrying the king of a small African kingdom; none for him when his uncle exiles him back to England for five years as punishment for his white wife. Ruth elects to stay in Africa during her husband’s exile while she works for his return and in every way she can to become part of the country.

The filmmakers were wise to avoid creating imaginary subplots and to concentrate instead on two people focused on their own future and that of the kingdom. This was 1947. In spite of progress between then and now, it is impossible to watch this movie without admitting to ourselves the one thing that persists in spite of political progress: the emotions of racial hatred.

— Reviewed by Joan Ellis

David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike in A United Kingdom (2016).

the book

BESTSELLING NONFICTION PAPERBACK BOOKS IN THE REGION

EXIT WEST — BY MOHSIN HAMID (Riverhead)

As compiled by the New England Booksellers Association

Hidden Figures, by Margot Lee Shetterly This fictional story of a very real, very current global issue may be one of the most important books this spring. At its heart, this is a love story, two young people, Nadia and Saeed, fall in love as their home is ravaged by war. They are forced to flee, losing some loved ones and leaving others behind, forced to make heartbreaking decisions to save their own lives. As soon as I began reading this crucial and relevant book, I was floored with admiration for Mohsin Hamid. His writing is flawless. Words are judiciously chosen and carefully combined in striking and original prose. The writing alone would make anyone want to read this book, but then combined with the story? Honest, compelling, timely, timeless — all of this and more. While we don’t know exactly where this city is, we are immediately taken to a world where the extraordinary and unfortunate fate of living in a city consumed by war is made palpable and real. This book is important and political but also deeply human and personal and it will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

— Reviewed by Jenny Lyons of the Vermont Book Shop in Middlebury.

Dark Money, by Jane Mayer The Trump Survival Guide, by Gene Stone We Should All Be Feminists,

by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie In Other Words, by Jhumpa Lahiri Alexander Hamilton, by Ron Chernow You Are a Badass, Jby en Sincero The U.S. Constitution and Fascinating Facts About It, by Terry L. Jordan The Soul of an Octopus, by Sy Montgomery Furiously Happy, by Jenny Lawson Book Shop in Middlebury.

Addison Independent

CALENDAR

PURIM CARNIVAL IN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 MIDDLEBURY. Monday, March 13, 3:45-5 p.m., Havurah House, 56 N. Pleasant St. Come enjoy a wide variety of Purim themed booths: sporting games, cake walk, face painting, Go Fish, music and more.

All ages welcome. RSVP to HHEdDirector@gmail.com by March 10. $5 suggested donation.

MARCH GALA IN BRANDON. Friday, March 17, 7-10 p.m., Brandon Inn. The Brandon Book Club will hold a March Gala to support the Brandon Free Public Library’s effort to “Raise the Elevator.” The library has been working to raise funds to install an elevator to ensure all patrons can access the beautiful third floor. There will be music

by Brandon’s own Bill Moore, a silent auction featuring products and gift certificates from area businesses and first dibs on books for the Giant Book Sale. Cash bar. $10 per person.

BOOGIE BENEFIT IN LINCOLN. Saturday, March 18, 6-11 p.m., Burnham Hall, Lincoln. The Willowell Foundation will present their annual “Boogie Benefit” featuring rockin’ dance bands The Avant-Garde Dogs and Band of the Land (opening). The evening will include a silent auction.

All proceeds go to support programs at the Willowell Foundation. Doors open at 6 p.m. $10 at the door.

HAMILTON PARODY PURIM TISH FUNDRAISER IN MIDDLEBURY. Saturday, March 18, 7 p.m., Havurah House, 56 N. Pleasant St. Come support Havurah, enjoy fine food, wine and beer and be entertained by performances of Hamilton Parody songs based on the Purim story and History of Havurah. $18/person. Must be 21+ to attend.

Open to the public. RSVP to HHedDirector@gmail.com by March 12.

THEATER “HEDDA GABLER” LIVE IN HD IN MIDDLEBURY. Thursday, March 9, 7-9:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Tony Award-winning director Ivo van Hove returns to National Theatre Live screens at Town Hall Theater with a modern production of Ibsen’s masterpiece starring Ruth Wilson.

Tickets $17/$10 students. Call 802-382-9222 or visit www. townhalltheater.org.

ONE ACT PLAYS IN BRANDON. Friday, March 10, 7 p.m., Saturday, March 11, 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 12, 2:30 p.m., Otter Valley Union High School. Otter Valley’s Walking Stick Theatre will present five one act shows: “Governing Alice,” “13 Ways to Screw Up Your College Interview,” Shadows of Antiquity,” “A Mystery Tour” and “Peter/Wendy.” Adults $7; students and seniors $6.

MET LIVE IN HD: LA TRAVIATA IN MIDDLEBURY. Saturday, March 11, 1-4 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Town Hall Theater will broadcast the Met Opera’s production of Verdi’s La Traviata, the tragic yet romantic story of an ailing courtesan who longs for true love. Tickets $24/$10 students. For more info call 802-382-9222 or visit www.townhalltheater.org.

top pick

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 13

GET YOUR BOOGIE ON AT THE BOOGIE BENEFIT FOR THE WILLOWELL FOUNDATION. DANCE TO THE AVANT-GARDE DOGS AND BAND OF THE LAND, THEN BID ON THE SILENT AUCTION AT THE BURNHAM HALL IN LINCOLN. TICKETS ARE $10. ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE FOUNDATION. DOORS OPEN AT 6 P.M.

PAGE 14 — Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017

realestate

did you know?

CALL 802-388-4944

ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE.

It’s not all luck.

Advertising helps too.

Call us today.

802-388-4944 ads@addisonindependent.com

Pocket doors can be awesome or, well, not so awesome. Check out the pros and cons of these sliders.

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Mess. Installation of a pocket door means demolishing and re-framing a wall, so plan to haul a few wheelbarrow loads of old drywall and wall studs out of your house.

Before demolishing the wall, investigate what you might find inside: plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling ducts. You’ll also need to determine if the wall is load-bearing, and if the door opening needs to be reinforced with a header.

— MetroCreative

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or persons receiving public assistance, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.”

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD Toll-free at 1-800424-8590. For the Washington, DC area please call HUD at 426-3500.

Addison Independent

| ARTS+LEISURE | Thursday, March 9, 2017 — PAGE 15