2018 Holiday Guide

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Inside: Gift Ideas Recipes Calendar of Events and more!

A publication of The Addison Independent • November 22, 2018

PAGE 2 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 3

Contents Gingerbread creations on display................. 5-7 Bird watching on New Year’s Day ...................8 Animal Lights of Love ......................................8 Church music in New Haven ...........................8

There’s a lot to do

in Addison County for the holidays. Take a look at this guide, take a deep breath, and dive in.

Happy Holidays! ~from all of us at the Addy Indy

Leicester Memory Tree .....................................8 Very Merry Middlebury events ................ 9-11 Little City, Big Holiday.............................. 12-13 More fun in Vergennes .............................. 13-14 Make a Wreath at Bixby ................................14 Holiday activities in Brandon ........................17 A Season for Candles.......................................18 Holiday trees and wreaths...............................19 A Cool Yule in Bristol ............................... 20-22

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See alpacas in Brandon ...................................16

Model Trains run for the Holidays ................23 Calendar of Activities.....................24-29, 36-37

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Recipes from the local experts ................. 30-39 Solstice celebrations ........................................38

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Sheldon Museum Store Great Ideas for Your Holiday Shopping One Park Street ▪ Middlebury ▪ 388-2117 Open Tues-Sat 10am - 5pm and Sundays December 2, 9, & 16, 12 - 4pm Visit www.HenrySheldonMuseum.org or call the Museum for train schedule.

PAGE 4 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 5

SANTA SITS AT the keyboard in a piece of edible art crated by Maddie Crowne and Mary Douglas and entered in the 2015 gingerbread display and competition at the Vermont Folklife Center in Middlebury. Submissions to the contest often go way beyond “houses.” Entry forms for the 20th annual competition are due this week.

Independent file photos/Trent Campbell

Gingerbread ‘house’ exhibit is a highlight of the holiday season competition with their own creative ideas rendered in food format.

Entrants should note that there are specific rules for size and construction materials.

Your entry must be built upon a base no larger than 12 inches by 16 inches, and everything above the base must be edible.

Participation in the theme is voluntary. Your own original designs are always welcome, but there is an additional prize awarded for “Best of Theme.”

Visitors to the exhibit are invited to vote for their favorite entry to receive the (See Gingerbread, Page 5)

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MIDDLEBURY — Many entrants in the annual Vermont Folklife Center Gingerbread House Competition and Exhibit take the word “house” very loosely. Submissions have included non-house structures — like a castle with sheep on the battlements and the Leaning Tower of Pisa — but even nonstructures like Santa playing a piano, the dragon Smaug guarding a trove of presents or “Sheepzilla” rampaging through a city.

In fact, the word “gingerbread” often seems an afterthought as well. Children’s eyes grow with delight and excitement when they peruse the sweet structures made with every kind of hard candy, marshmallow, licorice, frosting, M&M, gumdrop, candy cane and sugar glaze. Oh, and graham crackers are a stable building material.

The community competition returns again this holiday season with children, adults, business groups and other organizations invited to create an edible piece of art that will be displayed in December at the Vermont Folklife Center in downtown Middlebury.

Look for more sheep, and other barnyard animals, to appear again this year: The theme of the 20th annual VFC Gingerbread House Competition is “Down on the Farm.”

Entry forms must be delivered to VFC headquarters, 88 Main St. in Middlebury by this Friday, Nov. 23; registration fee is $5. Actual creations are due at the center by Monday, Nov. 26. They will be on display from Friday, Nov. 30, through Friday, Dec. 21. The opening reception is Friday, Nov. 30, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Registration forms are available online at vermontfolklifecenter.org or in person at the VFC. Entrants should read the forms carefully for deadlines and construction rules. Prizes of Middlebury Money will be awarded in each category. These certificates are redeemable at over 100 local businesses.

Each year the range of new designs continues to amaze visitors with dozens of interpretations of the traditional gingerbread house, using gingerbread or any other edible elements. All are invited to join the

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2017 ENTRY BY ELLEN, ANNA, MATTHEW AND OLIVIA BERG

THIS 2015 ENTRY EMBRACED THE THEME OF “DIGITAL FOLKLORE” WITH A WIDE ASSORTMENT OF EMOJIS

PAGE 6 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 7

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Gingerbread (Continued from Page 5) “People’s Choice” award.

Other categories are: Adult-Professional, Adult-Amateur, Children, Families 11 and under, Families 12 and older, and Organizations.

“Each year we are amazed by dozens of reinterpretations of the traditional gingerbread house that incorporate a huge array of edible elements,” Folklife Center staff said in announcing the competition.

“Join us this year with your own creative ideas rendered in food format.”

The exhibit typically draws nearly 2,000 visitors and has become a local holiday tradition. at the library too Feeling inspired by the creations at the Vermont Folklife Center, but less inclined to enter into the full competition? You might find just what you’re looking for at the Ilsley Library during its annual “Make Your Own Graham Cracker Gingerbread House” event on Saturday, Dec. 1, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Children and families are welcome to stop by the Community Room during this time where there will be graham crackers, marshmallows, gumdrops, frosting and other assorted candy on tables ready for construction.

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GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE Help us spread hope and happiness this holiday season to those who need it most in our community.

“LET IT SNOW!” BY MALORIE CARLSON OF RUTLAND

This activity takes place on the first Saturday of the Very Merry Middlebury celebrations, so if you’re feeling cold while wandering the streets and visiting with Santa, this could be a perfect opportunity to warm up with some heart-warming holiday fun.

Donate to the United Way of Addison County.

Together we can make our community a little brighter. www.unitedwayaddisoncounty.com/give

802.388.7189

P.O. Box 555 • 48 Court Street • Middlebury, VT

PAGE 8 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Holiday events are happening all over Addison County!

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JOIN FRIENDS AND make new friends when you go out searching for overwintering birds at Button Bay State Park in Ferrisburgh on New Year’s Day for a First Day Bird Watching Hike.

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Annual birding trip to be held New Year’s Day FERRISBURGH — New Year’s Day birding trips are a tradition held by many in the bird watching community as they begin to fill their annual bird lists. This coming Jan. 1 Otter Creek Audubon Society invites anyone who is interested to join members as they combine that tradition with the fair-

ly new tradition of First Day Hikes held at state parks across the country.

Meet up at Button Bay State Park in Ferrisburgh at 9 a.m. on New Year’s Day to walk the trails in search of overwintering birds. The walk is scheduled to last about two hours. Dress for the weather.

Honor your pet, and help Homeward Bound MIDDLEBURY — Homeward Bound, Addison County’s Humane Society, will host it’s annual Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony and open house this holiday season. On Tuesday, Dec. 18, 6-7 p.m., head to 236 Boardman St. in Middlebury, friends of Homeward Bound are invited to share their holiday cheer with shelter animals, enjoy seasonal delights, and participate in a tree lighting ceremony that celebrates pets, past and present.

This is not your average holiday memory tree. This tree honors the pets we have

loved, and the ones that are still here to brighten our days. Pets are incredibly important to their owners and most consider them to be family members. Lights of Love gives people the chance to celebrate the pets who so profoundly enhance their lives with joy and companionship each and every day of the year.

Individuals may purchase a colored light to honor a living pet or a white light to remember a pet that has passed. A donation is requested for each light.

Music night to be held in New Haven on Dec. 7 NEW HAVEN — A Christmas Music night will be held at the New Haven United Reformed Church on Friday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m.

The public is invited to join in a time of Christmas songs, readings, and refresh-

ments as members of the church prepare for the holiday season.

The church is located on Route 7, 4 miles north of Middlebury.

All are welcome. For more information, contact Judy at 802-897-2697.

Leicester’s Memory Tree looking for names LEICESTER — The Leicester Historical Society is sponsoring its annual Memory Tree at the Four Corners.

This is a chance for local people to remember family members and other loved ones whom they have lost by designating a light on a Christmas tree set up in the heart of town.

Names, clearly written, for the Memory Tree can be submitted to Diane Benware at 1594 Old Jerusalem Road, Salisbury, VT 05769. The cost is one dollar per name, six names for $5.

Deadline for submission is Monday, Dec 19. The tree will be lit at 5 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 22.

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 9

Middlebury celebrates the season with events for all!

visits. The Sheldon Museum of Vermont History will hold its traditional holiday open house that day from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and again Sunday, noon-4 p.m., at 1 Park St. Enjoy the elaborate model train layout, carols played on the Sheldon’s 1831 piano, and a miniature Christmas tree raffle featuring 20 creative trees decorated by local artists. See two holiday exhibits: Ho Ho Historical Holidays to You, and An Over the Top Holiday.

Admission by free will donation.

Stop by the Vermont Folklife Center at 88 Main St. to see the entrants in the center’s annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest (see Page 5). And if you leave feeling inspired, head over to the Community Meeting Room at Ilsley Public Library between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. that Saturday and make your own graham cracker gingerbread house.

This one’s free.

While you’re downtown, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa with all the fixings in the seasonal hut in Cannon Park across from Ilsley Library. There will be marshmallows and peppermint sticks to chose from to top your cocoa — or both. At 25 cents a cup it can be the first bargain of your shopping trip.

The Hot Chocolate Hut will be open again, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., on the second and third Saturdays in December.

If you miss Santa on the 1st, he’ll be back on the following two Saturdays. Enjoy an old-fashioned visit with Santa on Dec. 8 from 10 a.m.-noon at Maple Landmark Woodcraft.

Then on Saturday, Dec. 15, Santa will be visiting with children from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Danforth Pewter Workshop. Same as at the Middlebury Inn, these visits are free.

The Better Middlebury Partnership is also sponsoring a Free Gift Wrap Service at Community Barn Ventures, 44 Main St., from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1.

Bring a gift you purchased in Middlebury to 44 Main and show your receipt to get free gift wrapping.

The free gift wrap and hot chocolate hut will also be available for two evenings of shopping next month — Thursday, Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m., and Thursday, Dec. 13, 5-8 p.m.

Those are the special “Midd Night Stroll” promotions when shops will be open throughout town. And the Better Middlebury Partnership is working on some other down(See Middlebury, Page 11)

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A HORSE-DRAWN wagon carries revelers through downtown Middlebury during a Very Merry Middlebury celebration a few years back.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

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MIDDLEBURY — Addison County’s shire town will be pulsing with holiday magic throughout the month of December, thanks in part to the Better Middlebury Partnership’s month-long Very Merry Middlebury. Plus various churches, Middlebury College and the town also have activities to put you in — and keep you in — the spirit of the season.

Everything will add a festive air to any visit to Middlebury — from hot cocoa downtown to Santa making three visits to Middlebury to hear the wish lists from area children.

This year’s activities, under the banner “Very Merry Middlebury,” will include two special mid-week evenings of shopping, too.

Very Merry Middlebury provides the opportunity for thousands of people to experience the enchantment of the season and the wonder of an authentic small town. It is all about community and connecting with neighbors and visitors.

Seasonal activities heat up on Saturday, Dec. 1, at 9:30 a.m. when children congregate downtown to watch Santa arrive for the season. Watch the jolly red elf ride atop a big, red fire truck as it drives over the Cross Street Bridge and north on Main Street.

Children line Main Street to wave at Santa and get a wave back.

Children can have old-fashioned visits with Santa from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Take note: Santa visits are at the Middlebury Inn! Line up for a spot, then sit on Santa’s lap and let him know what’s on your mind. This is free, but you’ll want to get on the list early — Santa’s awfully busy this time of year and only has a limited amount of time.

Kids who are waiting their turn — or anyone who wants some fun — will have the opportunity to take free horse-drawn wagon rides from the Inn through downtown. This runs from 10 a.m. to noon — board the wagon in front of the Community House, the yellow building at the top of Main Street between the post office and the Congregational Church. It’s a great way to slow down and see the town at the speed our forebears did.

Or you can stop in at the free mile and cookies station at Kiss the Cook on Merchants Row from 10 a.m.-12 noon There are plenty of other fun things to do downtown on Dec. 1 — between shopping

PAGE 10 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE AREN’T THINGS. Give gifts of experience: performance or sporting event tickets, lift passes, restaurant gift certificates, a personalized playlist, a coupon for a back rub, or homemade treats. Instead of collecting dust, your thoughtful gift will be remembered fondly long after the event is over.

If you do head to the store, look for DURABLE items made from RECYCLED MATERIALS.

THAT’S NOT TRASH! Wrapping paper (except any wrapping paper with foil, Mylar, or plastic coatings), tissue paper, cardboard boxes, holiday cards, and rigid plastic packaging are all recyclable in your blue bin. While ribbons and bows are not recyclable, they’re often in great shape and can be saved for next year.

Lots of other items are accepted for SPECIAL RECYCLING at the District Transfer Station in Middlebury, including plastic bags, bubble wrap, batteries, string lights, and Christmas trees. Unwanted household items, books, and clothing can be DONATED to a local charity or brought to the Transfer Station for REUSE or special recycling.

For more information on how to reduce, reuse and recycle, visit www.AddisonCountyRecycles.org or call us at 388-2333.

Addison County Solid Waste Management District

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 11

Middlebury off the college musical onslaught on Friday, Nov. 30. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the quartet celebrates Debussy in this centenary year of his passing, with a program of Ravel and Debussy’s solitary string quartets. The next evening at the same time, the Sound Investment Jazz Ensemble will share its recent exploration of big band music from around the world in a free concert.

Monday, Dec. 3, sees The Music of 209 hit the Robison stage at 8 p.m., when students in Su Lian Tan’s Music I course perform original compositions in a free semester-end celebration of their work.

A program celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice will be performed on piano by Cédric Tiberghien at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5. Finally, on Dec. 8, students of affiliate artists Carol Christensen and Susanne Peck cap off a semester of vocal study with an evening of songs and arias beginning at 8 p.m.

Middlebury College’s Mead Chapel will be the site of “Lessons and Carols for the Advent of Christmas” on Sunday, Dec. 9 — twice, 4 and 7 p.m. Modeled after the longstanding European tradition, this annual program includes Bible readings of Advent and Christmas carols performed by the college choir with the congregation. Donations collected for area charities.

A little more up-tempo seasonal music can be had on Monday, Dec. 7, when Town Hall Theater will present The Glenn Miller Orchestra with “In The Christmas Mood.” At 7 p.m. you will hear holiday favorites like “Sleigh Ride,” “Have Yourself a Merry Lit-

THREE-YEAR-OLD GWEN LAPERLE of New Haven gets a turn to talk with Santa at the Middlebury Community House while older sister Maris looks on during the 2013 Very Merry Middlebury celebration.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

tle Christmas” and “Jingle Bells.”

Also upcoming are a Christmas benefit concert and sing-a-long on Monday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m., at the United Methodist Church

on North Pleasant Street; as well as the annual “Messiah” sing at the Congregational Church on Sunday, Dec. 23, at 2 p.m., Congregational Church of Middlebury.

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(Continued from Page 9) town surprises for those nights.

Another chance to get the kids into the spirit of the month is the annual Holiday Pancake Character Breakfast on Saturday, Dec. 8. There will be characters in costume, coloring, balloons and music to go along with a pancake breakfast at the Middlebury Inn. There will be seatings at 8:30 and 10 a.m. Look for more details online at ExperienceMiddlebury.com or in the Independent as the date draws closer.

The last weekend before Christmas will see the return of “Night Fires,” the theatrical pageant built around the approaching Winter Solstice. The show at Town Hall Theater will take place on Friday- Sunday, Dec. 21-23.

Free hot cocoa will also be available downtown on Saturday, Dec. 22 — this time at the Marquis Theater, 64 Main St. Stroll into the theater at 64 Main St. for a hot cocoa to get you through those last frantic days of holiday shopping. Santa Claus will also make a last stop in town before the big night as he visits the farmers’ market 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the VFW Hall at 530 Exchange St. Santa arrives at 9:30 a.m. and leaves for the North Pole at 12:30 p.m. Look for free coffee, tea and seasonal music.

HOLIDAY MUSIC If live holiday music performances are what you crave this time of year, Middlebury offers a lot to satisfy.

A fair amount of music revolves around Middlebury College, with the following performances at Robison Hall in the Mahaney Center for the Arts. Jupiter Quartet kicks

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PAGE 12 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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SANTA READS “’TWAS the Night Before Christmas” at Bixby Library at a previous Holiday Stroll as a librarian shows off the photos to the little girls and boys gathered around.

Vergennes gets festive for the holidays

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‘Tis the season for Vergennes Green Gift Certificates!

VERGENNES — The Vergennes Holiday $7 adults; $5 children under 12 years old; all Stroll kicks off a busy day early on Saturday, proceeds benefit the VUHS music program.

Dec. 1.

After breakfast, see what’s on offer at the Join the Vergennes Partnership, the Bixby 15th annual Vergennes Union Elementary Memorial Library and the School Winter Holiday Craft good people of Vergennes Bixby Memorial Fair. The craft fair has been for a full day of holiday moved this year to the high festivities at various locations Library will host school, but it is still being around the Little City. Meet a holiday open staged by VUES. The fair Santa and Mrs. Claus, and house from 9 a.m. runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. enjoy musical performances, to 2 p.m., which The price of admission is $3 craft-making, a craft fair, will include a or present a canned goods sweets and treats, story time or other non-perishable silent auction of and much more. foodstuff for the local The exact schedule for holiday baskets food shelf. This is a wellthe day was still tentative as donated by local organized craft fair with lots of press time so check the businesses and of great stuff. community calendar in the library patrons.

There will be Gallery stroll Nov. 29 edition if there is that morning from 10 a.m.-5 something you definitely want to see. p.m. Start at Creative Space Gallery, 214 Santa starts a busy day at the Vergennes Main St., where you can enjoy “make-andUnion High School cafeteria at a pancake take” activities for holiday decorating and (See Vergennes, Page 13) breakfast from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Admission is

One size fits all in the Little City When companies, organizations, and individuals give Vergennes Green gift certificates, they support our local economy and ensure a strong and vibrant community.

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SOME 25,000 CHRISTMAS lights will adorn the SD Ireland cement truck when it drives up to the City Green Dec. 1 during the culminating event of the Vergennes Holiday Stroll.

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 13

Vergennes

SANTA POPS UP several times during the Vergennes Holiday Stroll. Here he is seen with some kids at the Lighting of the City Green downtown with a 20th-century version of his red sleigh.

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(Continued from Page 12) giving.

Bixby Memorial Library will host a holiday open house from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., which will include a silent auction of holiday baskets donated by local businesses and library patrons.

At the library, Santa will read Clement Moore’s classic poem, “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” at around 10:30 a.m. Then Vermont singer/songwriter Jon Gailmor will entertain the jolly makers at the library with holiday favorites around 11 a.m. Gailmor travels down from his Northeast Kingdom home to spend this special Saturday morning with the Vergennes community. Come and sing along and lift your spirit.

After some holiday refreshments, the wonderful Addison County-based The North women’s barbershop Pole Mailbox chorus Maiden will be at Vermont will serenade Holiday Strollers at The Bixby the Bixby from 1-1:30 Library so Bidding on the kids can get p.m. goody-filled baskets their letters closes at 1:45, with to Santa the winners announced at official way. 2 p.m.

After Santa leaves the Bixby he will be going to the North Pole! In this case, it is a replica North Pole at a downtown venue from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (the venue was still being nailed down as of press times; in the past it has taken place at St. Paul’s Parish Hall and Vergennes Opera House; see our community calendar next week for this year’s location).

Kids can get their pictures taken with Santa and a creative local artist will be providing a holiday craft for children to do while waiting as well as the Letters to Santa table. The North Pole Mailbox will be there so kids can get their letters to Santa the official way.

Night falls early in December and people in Vergennes will gather to mark the coming of the darkness with celebrations in City Park from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. There will be fire pits, s’mores kits, a photo booth, carolers and more Santa Claus.

The dazzling SD Ireland Holiday cement truck, which will be bedecked with hundreds and hundreds of Christmas lights, usually ends the evening with a breathtaking display.

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STUDENTS FROM THE Northlands Job Corps help hang lights on the City Green in preparation for last year’s Holiday Stroll.

Holiday art, Broadway music and a little magic fill the holiday season VERGENNES — Outside the traditional Holiday Stroll activities, Vergennes will be the site of many other happenings to get you in the spirit and ready for the holidays.

First there is a Holiday Reception at Creative Space Gallery on Friday, Nov. 23, from 5-7 p.m. The 235 Main St. venue will host a show of holiday art and more between Nov. 23 and Jan. 4.

The holiday shopping season kicks into high gear with the “Magic on Main” promotion on Thursday, Dec. 6, from 5-8 p.m. throughout downtown Vergennes. Magic on Main brings the best of the holiday season to light, as downtown stores will be

open into the evening for your shopping pleasure. Shop up and down the Little City streets for family, friends, teachers and more.

OK, there is one bit of tradition that repeats this season — it’s the “Broadway Direct” show at the Vergennes Opera House on Friday, Dec. 7, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Now in its 13th year, “Broadway Direct” is the brainchild of local resident and professional actor Bill Carmichael (we know him as Bill Walsh, of course). He brings together some of his professional acting/ singing/dancing friends from New York (See Carmichael, Page 14)

Vergennes Ho Ho Ho Holiday Stroll SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1

The Holiday Stroll tradition continues in Vergennes!

Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Craft Fair at VUHS Storytime with Santa and musical performances at the Bixby Library Visit with Santa, decorate cookies, create an ornament and more at the Opera House Lighting of the City Park, music, fire pits, s’mores & more!

For a full schedule of Holiday Stroll events, visit: www.VergennesDowntown.org or follow us @vergennespartnership

purchase Vergennes Green Gift Certificates at One Credit Union, 7 Green Street

PAGE 14 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

COME TO THE Bixby Library in Vergennes on Dec. 8 to make a wreath that they can take hope for the holidays. Space is limited, sign up beforehand.

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Make a festive holiday wreath Dec. 8 at the Bixby

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VERGENNES — The Holiday Stroll is only the kick off of Yuletide events in the Little City.

Everyone is invited the Bixby Memorial Library in Vergennes on Saturday, Dec. 8, to make a festive holiday wreath.

Between 9 and 11 a.m. in the Otter Creek Room (with is handicap-accessible), participants will learn how to make their own wreath to decorate their homes

for the upcoming holidays.

The library will provide a wreath base, assorted greenery, a ribbon, berries, cones and floral wire. Those who take part are asked to bring pruning shears or sharp scissors plus additional decorations to share.

Space for this event is limited so please register at the library or by sending an email to laksamee.putnam@bixbylibrary.org.

BILL CARMICHAEL BRINGS “Broadway Direct” to the Vergennes Opera House stage Dec. 7 for the 13th year with help from pros and local high school students.

Shown hear during rehearsal for last week’s show are, from left, Maddy Smith, Sydney Tarte, Jonny Barden and Caitlin Walsh.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Carmichael (Continued from Page 13) and Boston. Together they present an evening of familiar, funny, moving and exceptional Broadway tunes. Several local area high school students will also participate.

This shows is always popular and typically sells out. Visit vergennesoperahouse.

org for more info.

Then, on Friday, Dec. 21, there will be a Holiday Shopper’s Evening with a wine tasting from 5-8 p.m. at Creative Space Gallery — again. Enjoy seasonal food favorites paired with selected wines, courtesy of Vergennes Wine.

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 15

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PAGE 16 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Women’s Clothing, scarves, jewelry, eclectic treasures and accessories for the home.

Blue Moon Clothing & Gifts

31 Center St. and 27 Center St. Brandon,VT 802-247-5004

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ALL OF THE alpacas at Maple View Farm in Brandon are Huacaya breed, a “teddy bear-like” alpaca with dense, crimpy fiber. See them during the farm’s holiday open house Nov. 24 and 25.

If you like fiber and ‘teddy bear-like’ faces be sure to stop by the Maple View Farm open house Nov. 24, 25 BRANDON — Maple View Farm Alpac- the South American Camelid family, which as hosts its annual holiday open house on also includes llamas, guanacos and vicunas.

Nov. 24 and 25 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., where All of the alpacas at Maple View Farm are you can learn about these gentle, intelligent Huacaya, a “teddy bear-like” alpaca with fiber animals. dense, crimpy fiber.

Owners Ed and Debbie BratAlpaca fiber has remarkable ton are very excited to be par- “We have some softness, fineness, warmth and ticipating in the Holiday Farm folks who look strength. It comes in an exOpen House again this year. traordinary variety of 22 natforward to the “We have some folks who colors, ranging from pure open house and ural look forward to the open house white to fawns, browns, grey and return each year while also return each and true jet black. The alpaca meeting many new people,” year while also has developed more thermal they said. “It’s fun!” capacity in its fiber than almost meeting many The fiber mill and studio new people. It’s any other animal, making it a located on the farm will also fun!” natural insulator and without be open so visitors will also lanolin found in many other fibe able to learn how fiber is bers; it is also naturally hypoalturned into yarn and other products. The lergenic. Many people who are sensitive to mill processes fiber into high quality batts, wool find that they can wear alpaca without roving, yarn and felt. The FeltLoom, which the itching or irritation they feel from wool creates felt fabric from carded fiber, will be because alpaca fiber is smooth. demonstrated on both days.

For more information, visit mapleviewMaple View Farm Alpacas, located at 185 farmalpacas.com or on Facebook look for Adams Road, one mile off Route 7 north Maple View Farm Alpacas and Vermont of Brandon, is home to a growing herd of Fiber Mill & Studio. Contact mvfalpacas@ 23 alpacas, including 3 crias (baby alpacas) gmail.com or 802.247.5412 for more inforborn this year. The alpaca is a member of mation.

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 17

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DENNIS MARDEN, LEFT, and auctioneer Bernie Carr were all dressed up last December to help out at the annual Brandon Free Public Library holiday auction sponsored by The Friends of the Library. Organizers said it was a successful afternoon with many people and businesses finding ways to support the library including donating items for the auction, supporting Carr as he auctioned off items and setting up and tearing down the whole affair. This year’s auction is Sunday, Dec. 2.

Brandon kicks off its holiday season Nov. 25 BRANDON — You can start your holiday season off with a meaningful and enduring tradition of remembrance in Brandon — the Brandon Memory Tree. Donations of $1 per name in memory of your loved ones help light the tree. Names will be printed in the Brandon Reporter newspaper.

To sponsor a bulb, write a check made out to Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) and mail it to BACC, PO Box 267, Brandon VT 05733. Names may also be dropped off at Carr’s Florist & Gifts. Make sure to include your name and phone number and the name(s) of loved ones.

Singing and Lighting of the Memory Tree this year will be on Sunday, Nov. 25, beginning at 3:30 p.m. in front of Brandon Town Hall, Conant Square. The tree will be lit for the season at 4 p.m.

For more information, contact the Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce at 2476401 or visit brandon.org.

And thus will begin the holiday season in Brandon.

Many festive events are scheduled over the coming month that are sure to put Brandon-area residents in a holiday frame of mind.

A big fundraiser for the Brandon Free Public Library is the annual Holiday Auction, which this year will take place on Sunday, Dec. 2. Be a part of an entertaining and philanthropic event. The Friends of the Brandon Library host this auction. Fun, laughter, camaraderie and a bit of wine and cheese too. Preview at 1:30 p.m.; auction begins promptly at 2 p.m.

The library is at 4 Franklin St. Get more info at info@brandonpubliclibrary.org or

802-247-8230.

Moonlight Madness in Brandon is a time for sales, discounts, specials, exceptional deals, warm drinks and sweet treats. The dates for this townwide sales event are Wednesday, Dec. 5, and Thursday, Dec. 20 — for the most part 4-9 p.m. Many shops will be offering 10 or 20 percent off storewide. And on the 5th, 4-8 p.m., up to 20 vendors will set up in the Brandon Town Hall for Moonlight Madness.

During Moonlight Madness, fill out a ticket at each participating location for a drawing of $100 in Brandon Bucks from the Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce and area businesses.

The Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas decorating contest returns this year. Judges will be on the streets on the second week in December, starting at 5 p.m. — be sure to have your lights on!

There will be four categories judged: • Residential Traditional.

• Residential Whimsical (this includes blow-up decorations).

• Civic.

• Commercial.

Anyone can call in their own place or someone else’s and the judges will be at liberty to nominate their favorite picks also.

Contact the chamber of commerce to nominate a display at 802-247-6401 or by email at: info@brandon.org.

Judges will be on the streets on Tuesday, Dec. 6, starting at 5 p.m. to pick the winners.

On Saturday, Dec. 8, plan for the Brandon Farmers’ Market annual Holiday Fair at Neshobe Elementary School. It will take

THE OTTER VALLEY Chorale performs at a past lighting of the Memory Tree in front of the Brandon Town Hall. The traditional lighting of the tree will take place Sunday, Nov. 25, beginning at 3:30 p.m.

place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with the promise of many vendors. Look for maple syrup, cheese, honey, baked goods, hand knit items, canned goods, wooden toys, dried flowers, aprons, jams and jellies, holiday décor and more. Neshobe School is at 17 Neshobe Dr. For more info contact Wendy Cijka at 802273-2655 or cijka4@gmail.com.

Brandon Festival Singers in Brandon

return for a holiday program on Sunday, Dec. 9, at 3 p.m. This performance will take place in the Brandon Congregational Church, 1 Carver St. This annual tradition features wonderful holiday music directed

by Gene Childers and featuring pianist Jean Childers. There will be a free will offering.

The season would not feel the same without this performance!

November 24 & 25

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PAGE 18 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Candles bring light to a time of darkness

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Editor’s note: This column originally ran on addisonindependent.com last December.

By FAITH GONG One week ago, my daughters made beeswax candles for the first time. Before you get impressed, this was not the sort of candle making that involves dipping wicks into a vat of hot wax; our sort of candle making involved ordering sheets of colored beeswax and a spool of wicking. Cut a length of wicking about one inch longer than the beeswax, lay it at one end of the sheet, and roll. Voila!

It’s one of the simplest and most satisfying crafts our family has ever done. Everyone — from our four-year-old on up — was able to produce nice-looking and useable candles. The older girls got fancy, rolling their beeswax sheets into spiral tapers and cutting shapes from different colors to decorate their candles.

My parents hosted the candle making in their mudroom, perfect because the floor’s radiant heat made the beeswax more pliable. All together, my daughters and some friends spent two hours rolling beeswax on that floor, producing an impressive number of candles.

Most of these candles were gifts for friends and teachers. That’s the beauty of winter candle making: No matter what you celebrate this time of year, it involves candles.

My own family’s celebration of Advent — the four weeks before Christmas — involves candles. We place our spiral wooden candleholder on the dining room table and put a white candle in each of the twenty-four holes. Starting on December 1, we light one new candle each night.

One of the great excitements of this year is that nearly all of my daughters are old enough to light candles on their own. It’s a skill that they’re eager to practice, so, over the past week, we have eaten dinner (and sometimes breakfast and lunch) alongside the blaze of an impressive number of candles; on the evening this column appears, we will have 24 candles going on our table (19 Advent candles, and five of my daughters’ handmade ones.)

Almost as fun as lighting candles is blowing them out, which, in our house, is a competitive sport. I’m expecting the amount of smoke produced by my daughters’ huffing and puffing to set off our smoke detector before Christmas Eve, and I’m planning to spend all of January scraping the wax off of our table. *** Those of us in the Northern Hemisphere are now heading into the Winter Solstice — the shortest day and darkest night of the year.

I demonstrated the mechanics of the Winter Solstice to my daughters by having one hold a flashlight and stand in place as our “Sun,” while her sister stood facing her, holding our globe with the North Pole pointing away from the “Sun.” It’s a simple demonstration, and gives us a logical explanation for these darker days: our world is positioned so that our hemisphere gets the least amount of light.

Most previous generations didn’t have flashlights, globes, or enough knowledge of astronomy to put the Winter Solstice into perspective. There is a reason why so many traditions have celebrations involving candles at this time of year: from Roman Satur-

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Faith Gong nalia, to Germanic Yule, Iranian Yalda, the Asian Dongzhi Festival, and Zuni Shalako, cultural history is filled with festivals on or around the Winter Solstice involving various rites and sacrifices designed to insure that the sun would return.

It would have been a reasonable fear, as darkness edged deeper and deeper into each day. And the fact that it was an annual occurrence — that the sun always did win out in the end? Well, that meant that our rites and sacrifices were working. Another example of how we humans are able to convince ourselves that we’re in control. *** This year’s season of darkness has also been a season of death around our family.

Life cycles just like light, and often deaths cluster together around a particular block of calendar squares. The deaths we have mourned this month have ranged from a family friend’s six-year-old daughter, to my 97-year-old great uncle.

The death of a fellow child, in particular, made my own children aware of their mortality for the first time. One morning, I found my eight-year-old sobbing underneath the Lego table. When I asked her what was wrong, she choked out: “You only get one life.”

Amid all this darkness and death, the snow started falling. Our first real snow of the year. *** Here’s what I’m noticing about the Winter Solstice this year: Although it’s dark, there is still light. And I’m much more aware of what light there is.

The sun will rise today at 7:23 AM, and it will set at 4:16 PM. But that’s not the whole story: There’s also first light and last light, which extend the light by about 30 minutes on either end.

First light and its counterpart, last light, are commonly called “twilight.” There are different kinds of twilight — astronomical, nautical, and civil — depending on the Sun’s angle to the horizon, but all refer to the same phenomenon: the time when the Sun is below the horizon, but its rays continue to light the sky. My daughters did an art project to illustrate the look of the sky during first and last light: They made wide stripes of color with pastel chalk on purple, pink, or blue backgrounds, and glued a black silhouette along the bottom.

I’m almost always outside at first and last light these days, taking care of our poultry, walking the dog, or shuttling daughters home from activities. First light and last light have become my favorite times of day, when the sky is enough to make up for the season’s overall lack of light. At our house, where we have a view towards the Green Mountains, evening twilight has an added benefit: The Sun’s sinking rays illuminate the mountainsides, which look like they’ve been dipped in gold, or wrapped in purple velvet.

After the Sun’s rays disappear, we light candles. *** The other night, we walked to a holiday party at a neighbor’s house. Because the Sun had long since set and there were no streetlights, one of my daughters wore a headlamp to illumine our way.

A few steps from the lights of our house, we became aware of the incredible light show in the clear night sky.

I’m talking about the stars, of course.

My daughters, who spent this fall reading Greek mythology, were thrilled to recognize the constellations they’d studied. “Look!

There’s Orion! And the scorpion!”

In the midst of their exclamations, one turned to the sister with the headlamp and begged, “Turn off the headlamp! Turn it off, so we can see the stars better!”

It reminded me that sometimes, when we lose one light, it allows us to see others that, while perhaps not as bright, are no less beautiful.

Faith Gong has worked as an elementary school teacher, a freelance photographer, and a nonprofit manager. She lives in Middlebury with her husband, four daughters, assorted chickens and ducks, and one anxiety-prone labradoodle. In her “free time,” she writes for her blog, The Pickle Patch.

and Wreaths

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 19

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PAGE 20 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Bristol is a festive town for the holidays

JUNIPER URBAN, 2, says hello to a horse in downtown Bristol last December. The horse was part of a team providing wagon rides through town for the recreation department’s Breakfast with Santa event.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

as they should appear on the Memorial Tree sign.

At 6 p.m. there will be a fun Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt on the green. Santa’s helpers will hide candy canes all around the park.

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The tree lighting gets under way at 6:30 with the dedication of Bristol’s 2018 Memory Tree. A beautiful tree will be lit for the (See Bristol, Page 21)

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

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Bristol Recreation Department office or you can mail your name(s) and payment (checks made payable to Bristol Recreation Dept.) to Bristol Recreation Dept., P.O. Box 249, Bristol, VT 05443. Please clearly print the names

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BRISTOL — Bristol will be bustling with a full month of holiday activities and celebrations through December; there’s so much going on that the fun starts even before we change the calendar to December.

St. Ambrose will kick off the fun with its “Light of Christmas” marketplace on the afternoon of Friday, Nov. 30, and all day Saturday, Dec. 1, at its Parish Hall, 11 School St. In addition to crafts and baked goods, look for dolls, jewelry, wonder jars, attic treasures, a silent auction and fabulous raffles of hand-made quilt and more. “Silver Tea” will be served at 2:30 p.m. on that Friday.

Another yummy holiday tradition starts the Cool Yule train rolling the following Friday, Dec. 7, which will be a busy evening.

The 11th annual Chocolate Walk will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. downtown. Businesses will be open late and will offer a complimentary chocolate treat to customers that come in to visit. Spend the evening browsing the stores, nibbling a delicious chocolate indulgence, and getting the holiday shop on at more than 20 unique vendors at multiple Main Street locations.

Early in the evening, head to the town park for the lighting of the Memory Tree.

Once again the Bristol Rec. Department will sponsor the memory tree. The cost is $5 for those who would like to dedicate a bulb to a loved one. You can purchase bulbs at the

CANDY CANE HUNT Find Santa’s hidden Candy Canes, bring your flashlights and hunt all around the Green.

Santa will be there too! Fri. 12/7 6pm. Free.

MEMORY TREE LIGHTING Honorees names will be read at the Gazebo on the Green. Music & refreshments.

Purchase a bulb by Sat. 12/3 ($5). Fri. 12/7 6:30pm.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Come and enjoy Carriage Rides (8:30-10:30am), Arts & Crafts, Live Music and of course SANTA!! Delicious Breakfast Includes: Pancakes, Sausages, Juice, Milk, Coffee or Tea. Three seatings – 8:30, 9:30 & 10:30. Sat 12/8, Holley Hall. Tickets on sale now, $10 all ages (2 & under free).

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLING Join us in front of Holley Hall and go out to sing to the community. All are welcome!

Cocoa and cookies afterwards. Fri. 12/14 6pm.

HOLIDAY PARTY FOR KIDS Parents, enjoy a night on the town while your kids enjoy an exciting party at Holley Hall!

The night will include music, games, pizza and holiday-themed fun! Fri. 12/14, 5-8pm.

For children ages 6+ ($35 per child, $55 per family)

PLUS! IN 2019 DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE Refreshments & Fun as you dress up and dance with Dad, Stepdad, Grandpa or that special someone in your life. Fri. Feb. 15, 6-7:30pm at Holley Hall. $25 per couple or $35 for a family.

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MOTHER & SON NIGHT OF FUN Music, games, legos, joke contest, snacks & prizes. Fri. March 8, 6-7:30pm at Holley Hall. $25 per couple or $35 for a family.

for tickets & more info, visit www.BristolVtRec.com • 802.453.5885

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 21

Bristol (Continued from Page 20) holiday season, with the lights on the tree representing memories of loved ones who are remembered at this special time of year.

The next day, Saturday, Dec. 8, ARTSight Studios and Gallery at 6 South St. (also known as the Lily Hinrichsen Studio), there will be Holiday Card Making from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Make your own holiday cards with materials provided. All ages welcome but 16 or under must be accompanied by adult. Come and go as you please. Suggested donation when you arrive.

The Bristol CORE organization has invited the grand man himself — Santa Claus

— to appear in Bristol on Saturday, Dec. 8.

Santa invites area families to the annual Santa Breakfast at Holley Hall with seatings at 8:30, 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Santa will arrive by fire truck, pancakes and sausages will be served to all. The kids will delight in sharing their wishes with Santa as music plays, crafts are made and the elf helpers share candy canes and stickers. Carriage rides available from 8:30-10:30 a.m. The breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, juice, milk, coffee and tea. Admission is $10 per person (under 2 free); tickets are on sale now at the town recreation department.

(See Santa, Page 22)

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PAGE 22 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Santa (Continued from Page 21) This promises to be a delightful event bringing the young and young at heart together to celebrate the joys of Christmas.

The next weekend also promises a surfeit of excitement. Friday, Dec. 14, starts with a holiday party for kids age 6 and older at Holley Hall — 5-8 p.m. (admission is $35 per

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PAT PALMER GUIDES his team of horses away from Holley Hall in Bristol one Saturday this past December; Palmer offered wagon rides to people attending Breakfast with Santa.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

child, $55 per family).

Parents, get some shopping done or enjoy a night on the town while your kids enjoy an awesome party at Holley Hall including music, games, pizza and holiday-themed excitement — all brought to you by the Bristol Rec. Department. One option for the parents is a new promotion from Bristol CORE called “Eat, Drink and Be Merry.” Bristol’s newest event encourages you to visit multiple unique locations on Main Street for a terrific selection of local well-known musical acts, with accompanying wines, ciders and delicious eats.

The holiday season culminates with an old tradition and a newer one. First, the younger one: The Third Annual Lumen celebration of fire and lights will take place on Friday, Dec. 21, from 5-9 p.m. on Main Street. Begin the evening with lantern-making at Holley Hall, then experience fire performers Cirque de Fuego on the green, a lighted walk down Main Street and fire pits at Tandem and Vermont Tree Goods complete with hot drinks and tasty eats. Wrap up the night at Hatch 31 with music and revelry. This is part of Bristol’s Cool Yule celebration.

The second and culminating town-wide tradition is Bristol Best Night! On Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve — three downtown venues will host music and other events all evening long. The schedule for Bristol Best Nigh 2018 was not firmed up by deadline for this publication but plans were in the works to host more than two dozen musical acts — plus a magician!

THE BRISTOL RECREATION Department’s annual Breakfast with Santa event in 2017 drew a big crowd to Holley Hall. This year’s breakfast is slated for Dec. 8.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 23

Don’t miss the expanded train exhibit

A YOUNG GIRL intently checks out the model train exhibit at the Henry Sheldon Museum in Middlebury a few years back. The exhibit returns with many new additions on Dec. 1 and will be on display through Jan. 13.

Independent file photo/John S. McCright

cludes two sets of mother/son train engineers.

See the updated train display during the Sheldon Museum Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 2, noon-4 p.m. The Judd-Harris House at One Park Street (across from the Ilsley Public Library) will be decked with

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beautiful floral arrangements enhanced with natural botanical designs by members of the Middlebury Garden Club. There will be carols played on the Sheldon’s 1831 piano.

The Miniature Christmas Tree Raffle also returns. The raffle features 20 creative trees decorated by local artists including: Ashley

Wolff, Warren Kimble, Sarah Stahl, Nancie Dunn and Sarah Pope. Also on view are two holiday exhibits: Over-the-Top Holiday and Ho Ho Historical Holiday to You! Put in a bid for the most beautiful tree (or two); they will be raffled off to support the education and exhibit programs of the museum.

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MIDDLEBURY — What has become an annual holiday tradition in Middlebury, the Sheldon Museum’s electric train layout is sure to delight all ages. Over the years, the assemblage has grown and now stands three levels high, with two tracks running Lionel O gauge trains and the upper track running HO trains.

The backdrop of the green mountains painted by local artist Gayl Braisted adds atmosphere.

Each year the train crew adds something new to the layout — in 2017, a search light car joined the freight train; 2016 Gabe the Lamplighter was added to the display (watch Gabe climb a tower and turn on the floodlights). The year before that a Lionel milk car that delivers milk cans was added to the trains.

This holiday season look for a new — and exciting — feature. Sheldon volunteers have been building a new mountain and it will feature a gondola-style chair lift! Larry Maier has spent more than 140 hours on the project. He is a retired engineer whose resume includes works on one of the Space Shuttles.

A number of other volunteers are helping as well and they have added special touches, such as skiers and spelunkers.

The layout is made possible by a team of volunteer engineers who operate the trains Dec. 1 through Jan. 13, 2019. This roster in-

PAGE 24 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Holiday

calendar at 802-388-1220 or pryan@residenceottercreek.com.

“Honey in the Hive: Traditional Music and Step Dance” in Middlebury. Sunday, Nov. 25, 3-4 p.m., Community Room, EastView at Middlebury, 100 EastView Ter. Young Traditions Vermont 2018 contest winners Romy (fiddle, flute and feet) and Ben (keyboard) Munkres, with their parents Andrew Munkres (vocals, banjo and guitar) and Kristin Bolton (upright bass, vocals and feet) will play Celtic music as well traditional music from the U.S., Canada and Sweden, at times accompanied by Irish, Cape Breton, Quebecois, or Appalachian step dance. Free and open to the public.

“Kitchen Talk (Tonk) from Red Rock Farm.” in Addison. Sunday, Nov. 25, 3 p.m., Addison Fire Station, 44 Rt. 17, just west of Addison 4 Corners. At the Addison Town Historical Society meeting, Eugene and Judy Charlebois will share experiences they’ve had over the years in their 1810 stone house. Traditional music has played a big role in their days at Red Rock Farm. Light refreshments. Non-members are asked for a donation.

Memory tree lighting in Brandon. Sunday, Nov. 25, 3:30 p.m., Brandon Town Hall, 1 Conant Sq. Catch the magic of the season with singing from OVUHS Chorale and the Brandon Festival Singers. At 4 p.m. the Memory Tree is lit for the season.

24 Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

MONDAY

Nov

26

Veterans’ luncheon in Middlebury. Monday, Nov. 26, 1 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd. Calling all Veterans

to this a monthly complimentary luncheon for those who have served. Come meet other Veterans and friends and enjoy a delicious meal. Free and open to all Veterans. Fully accessible. RSVP required to Pat Ryan at 802-388-1220 or pryan@residenceottercreek.com.

Nov

27

TUESDAY

Age Well Senior Luncheon in Vergennes. Tuesday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m., Vergennes Area Seniors Armory Lane Senior Housing, 50 Armory Ln. Doors open at 10 a.m. for bingo and coffee hour. Meal served at noon of BBQ chicken breast, mashed potatoes, beets with orange sauce, wheat bread and pineapple chunks. Bring your own place setting.

72 hours advanced notice required. Call Michelle to reserve 802-377-1419. Open to anyone age 60 and up and their spouse of any age. Free ride may be provided. Call ACTR at 802-388-2287 to inquire.

Community rhythm circle with Rob Zollman in Middlebury. Tuesday, Nov. 27, 3 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd. Have fun while making music. Drumming is emotionally and physically beneficial as it is gentle and supports memory function. It builds community and empowers people to enjoy music in ways they may never have experienced. Free and open to the public.

Fully accessible. RSVP to Pat Ryan at 802-388-1220 or pryan@residenceottercreek.com.

“Can the Republican Party be Saved?

Can America?” Bill Kristol lectures in Middlebury. Tuesday, Nov. 27, 4:30-6 p.m., Dana Auditorium, 356 College St. Kristol is

NEW LOCATION! NOW IN MIDDLEBURY SWEETS MOTEL

Batter up

JULIA QUATTROCCI, LEFT, and Gail Burkholder make pancakes on the stage of Bristol’s Holley Hall for the town’s annual Breakfast with Santa last December.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Nov

24

SATURDAY

Early bird/hunters breakfast in South Starksboro. Saturday, Nov. 24, 7-10 a.m., Jerusalem Schoolhouse. All you care to eat buffet breakfast. Tickets $9 ages 12 and over/$4 ages 5-11.

Free clothing giveaway in Middlebury.

Saturday, Nov. 24, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Middlebury United Methodist Church, North Pleasant St. Warm coats, hats, gloves/ mittens, sweaters, boots.

Small Business Saturday in Brandon.

Saturday, Nov. 24. Shop local. This celebratory day was founded to encourage consumers across the country to support local, small businesses within their hometowns Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comics in Middlebury. Saturday, Nov. 24, 1 and 4 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Come see this slapstick comedy act like no other.

Peers leads over a dozen dogs through challenging and hilarious tricks as he plays the straight man. More info available soon online at townhalltheater.org or the THT Box Office at 802-382-9222, Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.

“King Pede” card party in Ferrisburgh.

Saturday, Nov. 24, 6:30 p.m., Ferrisburgh Town Hall and Community Center, Route 7. The evening begins at 6:30 PM with a sandwich supper and then on to the games!

King Pede is a unique game that involves “trick-taking” techniques such as in Hearts and Spades or Pitch. This is a game of fun and skill so come prepared to use your

strategic thinking.

Caroline Cotter in Brandon. Saturday, Nov. 24, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music, 62 Country Club Rd With a captivating soprano voice and award-winning songwriting, Caroline Cotter’s travel inspired songs take listeners all over the world and into the depths of the human heart. Show $20. Dinner and show $45. Reservations required for dinner and recommended for the show. BYOB. Call 802-247-4295 or email info@brandon-music.net to reserve.

Horse Traders on stage in Vergennes.

Saturday, Nov. 24, 8 p.m., Vergennes Opera House 120 Main St. Veteran performers with a wide and rollicking repertoire, the Horse Traders have lit up just about every Addison County venue in recent years. Their music ranges from modern pop and oldies to classic rock, soul and country, from artists like the Pretenders, Tom Petty, the Rolling Stones, Pink, Blondie, Fleetwood Mac, Meghan Trainor, Neil Young, 4 Non Blondes and many more. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $10.

Nov

25

SUNDAY

Jenni Johnson Jazz in Middlebury. Sunday, Nov. 25, 2 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd. Delight in Jenni’s smooth voice and unique style as she performs versatile renditions of American Jazz classics. Part of The Residence’s Sunday Music Series. Free and open to the public. Fully accessible. RSVP to Pat Ryan

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Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 25

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calendar

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Taking flight

KRISTI WILLIAMSON, TOP, and Sara Granstrom rehearse a dance for “Night Fires” at Town Hall Theater in 2018. The winter solstice celebration runs Dec. 21-23 in Middlebury.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

founder and editor at large of “The Weekly Standard,” and a regular on ABC’s “This Week with George Stephanopoulos” and other leading political commentary shows.

In 2016 Kristol emerged as a prominent Republican critic of then-candidate Donald J. Trump. He remains a vocal critic of the President.

Nov WEDNESDAY

28

Legal and financial planning for Alzheimer’s disease workshop in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Nov. 28, 3:30 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd. An informative workshop, led by volunteer community educator Lauren Bierman. The workshop will explore the unique legal and financial issues that arise with a diagnosis of dementia and how to put plans in place.

Free and open to the public. Fully accessible. RSVP to Pat Ryan at 802-388-1220 or pryan@residenceottercreek.com.

Leath Tonino in Middlebury. Wednesday, Nov. 28, 6 p.m., Marquis Theater, 65 Main St. Vermont author Tonino will discuss “The Animal One Thousand Miles Long,” a book of essays she wrote about the state of Vermont.

Nov

29

THURSDAY

Age Well Senior Luncheon in Vergennes. Thursday, Nov. 29, 10 a.m., Vergennes Area Seniors Armory Lane Senior Housing, 50 Armory Ln. Doors open at 10 a.m. for bingo and coffee hour. Meal served at noon of roast pork, sweet potatoes, broccoli florets, dinner roll, warm apple sauce and a congo bar. Bring your own place setting. $5 suggested donation. 72 hours advanced notice required. Call Michelle to reserve 802-377-1419. Open to anyone age 60 and up and their spouse of any age. Free ride may be provided. Call ACTR at 802-3882287 to inquire.

“The Midterm Elections of 2018: What Happened, and What Comes Next?” talk in Middlebury. Thursday, Nov. 29, 4 p.m., The Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd. Middlebury College Professor Emeritus Eric Davis addresses why the elections on November 6 for the U.S. House and U.S. Senate turn out the way they did, the results of the Vermont elections and some of the likely consequences of the election results.

Free and open to the public. Fully accessible. RSVP to Pat Ryan at 802-388-1220 or pryan@residenceottercreek.com.

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PAGE 26 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Holiday

Disappearances 26

SNOWBOARDER AND two skiers slowly disappear into a cloud of manmade snow as they ride a chairlift at the Snow Bowl during Christmas Week 2017.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Black

“El Norte” on Screen in Middlebury.

Thursday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m., Community Room, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Middlebury Community Classic Film Club continues its fall season, themed “Immigration and Migration.”

Fleeing the violence of the Guatemalan civil war, two refugees head north through Mexico to the United States. Their story reverberates powerfully in our own time. Free. Discussion to follow. Cookies, popcorn and good coffee.

See great films with friends old and new.

Animations/Concert In Middlebury. Thursday, Nov. 29, 7 p.m., Twilight Auditorium, Middlebury College. Hand-drawn animations from Studio Art courses ART 185 and ART 200 will be screened along with a live concert performance by multifaceted musician and artist Raumshiff Engelmayr. Free. More info at middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Thursday, Nov. 29, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-a-play musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Nov

30

FRIDAY

Age Well Senior Luncheon in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 30, 11 a.m., Glass Onion, Hannaford Career Center, 51 Charles Ave. Middlebury Doors open at 11 a.m. Meal served at noon. Chef’s Choice — always delicious — includes beverage and dessert. 72 hours advanced notice required.

Call Michelle to reserve 802-377-1419. $5 suggested donation does not include gratuity. Open to anyone age 60 and up and their spouse of any age. Free ride may be provided. Call ACTR at 802-388-2287 to inquire.

“Light of Christmas” marketplace in Bristol.

Friday, Nov. 30, 1-5 p.m., St. Ambrose Parish Hall, 11 School St. Featuring craft shop, bake shop, mercy Creation gift shop, doll & jewelry shop, wonder jars, silent auction, attic treasures and fabulous raffles — handmade quilt, theme baskets filled with great items, 50/50. Silver Tea at 2:30 p.m.

calendar

Free clothing giveaway in Middlebury.

Friday, Nov. 30, 2-5 p.m., Middlebury United Methodist Church, North Pleasant St. Warm coats, hats, gloves/mittens, sweaters, boots.

Gingerbread house exhibit and competition opening reception in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 30, 4-6 p.m., Vermont Folklife Center, 88 Main St. Come see this year’s entries in the Folklife center’s annual gingerbread event. To enter go to vermontfolklifecenter. org.

Bingo Fundraiser in Salisbury. Friday, Nov. 30, 6 p.m., Salisbury Community School.

Lots of prizes from local businesses. come support 5th and 6th graders.

Jupiter Quartet in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Dr. The quartet celebrates Debussy in this centenary year of his passing, with a program of Ravel and Debussy’s solitary string quartets, plus Dutilleux’s Ainsi la nuit. Pre-concert lecture

by Professor of Music Larry Hamberlin, at 6:30 p.m. in Room 221. Reserved seating.

Tickets: $28 Public/$22 Midd ID holders/$10 Youth/$6 Midd students. More info at middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

Fall Dance Concert in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m., Dance Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. A dynamic evening of ideas in motion showcasing choreography by emerging student dance artists and the annual Newcomers’ Piece, choreographed this year by the Dance Company of Middlebury under the direction of Lida Winfield. Tickets: $15 Public/$12 Midd ID holders/$8 Youth/$6 Midd students; on sale November 12. More info at middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

“Men on Boats” on stage in Middlebury.

Friday, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m., Seeler Studio Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Ten explorers. Four boats.

One Grand Canyon. This play by Jaclyn Backhaus is the true(ish) history of an 1869 expedition, when a one-armed captain and a crew of insane yet loyal volunteers set out to chart the course of the Colorado River. Tickets: $15 Public/$12 Midd ID holders/$8 Youth/$6 Midd students; on sale Nov. 12. More info at middelbuey.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Friday, Nov. 30, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-a-play musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Dec

1

SATURDAY

Holiday Stroll in Vergennes.

Saturday, Dec. 1, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Locations downtown. Celebrate the holidays in Vergennes with breakfast with Santa, Craft Fair at VUHS, Bixby Library activities, Pictures with Santa, storytelling and crafts at the Opera House, Caroling on Main Street, other activities and Lighting of the Park. For a full schedule of events visit VergennesDowntown.org or follow on social media @VergennesPartnership.

Breakfast with Santa in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 1, 8-10:30 a.m., Vergennes Union High School, 50 Monkton Rd. Breakfast, an elf band and chorus, crafts for the kids, and of course a visit with Santa. Tickets $5 for kids/$7 for adults. All proceeds benefit the VUHS music program.

“Light of Christmas” marketplace in Bristol.

Saturday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., St. Ambrose Parish Hall, 11 School St. Featuring craft shop, bake shop, mercy Creation gift shop, doll & jewelry shop, wonder jars, silent auction, attic treasures and fabulous raffles

Edible art

“ANCIENT EMERALD CASTLE” was the submission by Jessie Jerry of Vergennes to the Vermont Folklife Center’s annual Gingerbread House Competition and Exhibit in 2017.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

— hand-made quilt, theme baskets filled with great items, 50/50.

Holiday baskets silent auction in Vergennes.

Saturday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bixby Memorial Library, 258 Main St. Part of the little city’s Holiday Stroll. Bidding on items closes at 1:45 p.m. and bids can be taken home or picked up later.

Very Merry Middlebury commences in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., downtown. Opening day of Middlebury’s annual holiday festivities begins when Santa arrives at 9:30 a.m. and continues with Santa visits at the Middlebury Inn from 10 a.m.-noon, free milk and cookies at Kiss the Cook from 10 a.m.-noon, free gift wrapping at Community Barn Ventures from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and the Hot Cocoa hut serving up cocoa and fixings from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for 25 cents a cup.

Sheldon Museum’s annual Holiday Open House in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Henry Sheldon Museum, 1 Park St. Enjoy the elaborate model train layout, carols played on the Sheldon’s 1831 piano, and a Miniature Christmas Tree Raffle. The raffle features 20 creative trees decorated by local artists. See two holiday exhibits: Ho Ho Historical Holidays to You, and An Over the Top Holiday. Admission by donation. More info at 802-388-2117 or HenrySheldonMuseum.org.

Old-fashioned visits with Santa in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.noon. Middlebury Inn, 16 Court Sq. Bring the tots to see the jolly old elf. A Very Merry Middlebury event.

Holiday pottery sale in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Middlebury Studio School, 2377 Route 7. Pottery by Kathy Clarke, Ken Martin, Instructors, local potters, studio assistants and students. Handmade holiday gifts at affordable prices, also cards, jewelry, paintings and some surprises.

Everything is locally made. A fundraiser to benefit the school.

Make your own graham cracker gingerbread house in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-noon, Community Room. Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. All materials provided.

Free.

Gallery stroll in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Creative Space Gallery, 214 Main St. Enjoy “make and take” activities for holiday decorating and giving.

Free clothing giveaway in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 1, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Middlebury United Methodist Church, North Pleasant St. Warm coats, hats, gloves/ mittens, sweaters, boots.

Caroling, Caroling! in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Congregational Church of Middlebury, 2 Main St. All are welcome to gather on the front steps in cozy attire to celebrate the season with festive songs.

Santa Reads “The Night Before Christmas” in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10:30 -11 a.m. Bixby Memorial Library 258 Main St. Join Santa as he reads Clement Moore’s classic Christmas tale. Part of the little city’s Holiday Stroll.

Jon Gailmor in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 1, 11-11:45 a.m., Bixby Memorial Library, 258 Main St. Jon Gailmor plays holiday favorites as part of the Vergennes Holiday Stroll.

Maiden Vermont in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 1, 1-1:30 p.m., Bixby Memorial Library, 258 Main St. Enjoy a capella hholiday serenade as part of Vergennes’ Holdiay Stroll.

“Men on Boats” on stage in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 1, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Seeler Studio Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Ten explorers.

Four boats. One Grand Canyon. This play

by Jaclyn Backhaus is the true(ish) history of an 1869 expedition, when a one-armed captain and a crew of insane yet loyal volunteers set out to chart the course of the Colorado River. Tickets: $15 Public/$12 Midd ID holders/$8 Youth/$6 Midd students; on sale Nov. 12. More info at middelbuey. edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

Meet Vermont author Ellen Stimson in Middlebury. Saturday December 1, 3-4 p.m., Kiss the Cook, Merchants Row. “Ellen reads like Erma Bombeck meets E. B. White (with a dash of Elizabeth Gilbert thrown in). She’s a natural storyteller and openhearted lover of her family, her animals, and her big chaotic life.” — Boston Globe.

Complimentary refreshments served.

Fall Dance Concert in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Dance Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. A dynamic evening of ideas in motion showcasing choreography by emerging student dance artists and the annual Newcomers’ Piece, choreographed this year by the Dance Company of Middlebury under the direction of Lida Winfield. Tickets: $15 Public/$12 Midd ID holders/$8 Youth/$6 Midd students; on sale November 12. More info at middlebury.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

Amy Rigby in concert in Ripton. Saturday, Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Ripton Community Coffee House, Route 125. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Come hear whimsical, often autobiographical songs. Rigby will be accompanied by her husband, Wreckless Eric. Refreshments available. Wheelchair accessible but the bathrooms are not. Call ahead for a slot on the open mic list. Admission $15 generous admission/$10 general admission/$3 for children. More info call 802-388-9782.

The Sound Investment Jazz Ensemble in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. The Sound Investment shares its recent exploration of big band music from around the world — they were surprised by what they found. It’s certain to be a special, swingin’ evening. Free.

Va-et-vient in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music, 62 Country Club Rd. Vermont’s own Va-et-vient is a trio

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 27

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Coming Soon To

T HEATER

OWN HALL

Merchants Row, Middlebury, VT Tickets: 802-382-9222 • www.townhalltheater.org Preservation Fee: $1-$2 per ticket

JOHNNY PEERS AND THE MUTTVILLE COMIX Nov. 24 1 & 4pm $10- $22

A canine comedy show for the whole family and the dog lover in all of us.

Middlebury Community Players

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

Nov. 29–Dec. 1 & Dec. 6–8 8pm Dec. 2 & 9 2pm $23/$18 student – $15 (Thurs 11/29 & 12/6)

Multiple Tony®-award winner is a hilarious pastiche of mistaken identity, schtick & reflections on 1920s musicals.

WARREN MILLER’S FACE OF WINTER Dec. 4 & 5 7:30pm $20

New and veteran athletes alike pay tribute to the man who started it all in Face of Winter.

On the prowl

THE VERMONT FOLKLIFE Center’s annual Gingerbread House Competition and Exhibit fills the Middlebury center with the warm smells of Christmas each December. Amazing creations, like this one on display in 2017, will be on display this year from Nov. 30 through Dec. 21.

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA IN THE CHRISTMAS MOOD

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

performing French, Québecois, Cajun, and Créole music. Take a step ‘out of Vermont’ without actually leaving, and come enjoy Va-et-vient. Show $20. Dinner and show $45. Reservations required for dinner and recommended for the show. BYOB. More info at 802-247-4295 or info@brandon-music.net.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 1, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-a-play musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Dec

2

SUNDAY

Sheldon Museum’s annual Holiday Open House in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 2, noon-4 p.m. Henry Sheldon Museum, 1 Park St. Enjoy the elaborate model train layout, carols played on the Sheldon’s 1831 piano, and a Miniature Christmas Tree Raffle. The raffle features 20 creative trees decorated by local artists. See two holiday exhibits: Ho Ho Historical Holidays to You, and An Over the Top Holiday. Admission by donation. More info at 802-388-2117 or HenrySheldonMuseum.org.

Holiday auction in Brandon. Sunday, Dec. 2, 1:30 p.m., Brandon Free Public Library, 4 Franklin St. Be a part of an entertaining and philanthropic event. The Friends of

the Brandon Library host this auction. Fun, laughter, camaraderie and a bit of wine and cheese too. Preview at 1:30 p.m. Auction begins promptly at 2 p.m. More info at info@ brandonpubliclibrary.org or 802-247-8230.

Chicken and Biscuit Dinner in Middlebury.

Sunday, Dec. 2, 5-6 p.m., United Methodist Church, corner of Route 7 and Seminary St. A warm meal to fill your tummy. Adults $8.

“Men on Boats” on stage in Middlebury.

Sunday, Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., Seeler Studio Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Ten explorers. Four boats.

One Grand Canyon. This play by Jaclyn Backhaus is the true(ish) history of an 1869 expedition, when a one-armed captain and a crew of insane yet loyal volunteers set out to chart the course of the Colorado River.

Tickets: $15 Public/$12 Midd ID holders/$8 Youth/$6 Midd students; on sale Nov. 12. More info at middelbuey.edu/arts or 802-443-3168.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-a-play musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Dec

3

MONDAY The Music of 209 on stage in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 3, 8 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney

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Volkswagen Presents

Dec. 10 7pm $40

It’s a night of holiday favorites with The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra.

Great Art Wednesday

GAUGUIN: THE FULL STORY Dec. 12 11am & 7pm $13/$8 Students

Gauguin: The Full Story was hailed

by The Times as the finest artistic biography ever made.

NIGHT FIRES

Dec. 21 & 22 7:30pm; Dec. 22 & 23 3pm $25/$21 Srs/$20 Students

A mystery play, a winter solstice pageant for our own times – rife with magic, beauty, humor and tears.

New Year’s Eve with

THE HORSE TRADERS

Dec. 31 Doors open at 8pm, Band kicks in at 8:30pm • Tickets starting at $15

Dance your pants off and welcome in 2019 with The Horse Traders.

27

PAGE 28 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Students in Su Lian Tan’s Music I course perform original compositions in a semester-end celebration of their work. Free.

Dec

4

28

TUESDAY

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Adult drop-in crafts in Middlebury. Tuesday, Dec. 4, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Free. All materials provided.

Warren Miller’s “Face of Winter” on screen in Middlebury. Tuesday, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. New and veteran athletes alike pay tribute to the man who started it all in “Face of Winter,” the 69th installment from Warren Miller Entertainment (WME). Tickets, $20 general admission (includes $2 preservation fee).

Group tickets available for $17 when purchasing 10 or more tickets (includes $2 preservation fee). available online at townhalltheater. org or the THT Box Office at 802-382-9222, Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.

Lecture demonstration with Matea MillsAndruk in Middlebury. Tuesday, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m., Dance Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Middlebury College senior Mills-Andruk will synthesize her research in the fields of dance and gender studies with this event combining movement work and the performance of written scholarship. Free.

Dec WEDNESDAY

5

Brandon Town Hall Moonlight

Humble materials

ADDISON COUNTY ARTISTS and businesses decorated 21 little Christmas trees that display at the Henry Sheldon Museum of History in Middlebury last December, and a similar show will be up this year. The above work by Sarah Pope is titled “Humble Materials.”

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Madness in Brandon. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 4-8 p.m., Brandon Town Hall 1 Conant Sq., and businesses around town. Twenty-two vendors up and downstairs in the Brandon

Town Hall. Chili and soup available for sale

by Friends of Town Hall along with coffee, tea and hot chocolate.

Moonlight Madness in Brandon. Wednesday,

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., downtown. A time for shopping local with sales, discounts and specials.

Stroll through downtown and drive to the outskirts. Enjoy the sights and sounds and visit with friends and neighbors. It is a time to catch a scrumptious bite to eat or warm up with something warm to drink. And last but not least, it is a time to support your neighbors and keep it local.

“Taking Flight” performed in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Dec. 5, 4:30 p.m., Dance Theater, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. A “lightly produced” showing of dance experiments by the new batch of choreographers emerging from the Beginning Dance course facilitated by Christal Brown and the Improvisational Practices course, facilitated by Lida Winfield, Michael Chorney, and Deborah Felmeth. Free.

“The Wyeths: First Family of American Art” in Middlebury. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m., Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Shelburne Museum director Thomas Denenberg discusses the Wyeths — N. C. (1882–1945), Andrew (1917– 2009), and Jamie (b. 1946) — and offers new perspectives on these three painters.

Parts of the Vermont Humanities Council First Wednesdays series.

Warren Miller’s “Face of Winter” on screen in Middlebury. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. New and veteran athletes alike pay tribute to the man who started it all in “Face of Winter,” the 69th installment from Warren Miller Entertainment (WME). Tickets, $20 general admission (includes $2 preservation fee). Group tickets available for $17 when purchasing 10 or more tickets (includes $2 preservation fee). available online at townhalltheater.org or the THT Box Office at 802-382-9222, Monday-Saturday,

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Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 29

Holiday

Elf on a tree

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

noon-5 p.m.

Cédric Tiberghien, Piano in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Tiberghien presents a program celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice, featuring works composed during every year of the war — by composers from Poland (Szymanowski), Russia (Scriabin), Germany (Hindemith), France (Debussy), and England (Bridge) — including a work written for a pianist who lost his arm in battle. Reserved seating.

Tickets: $22 Public/$16 Midd ID holders/$10 Youth/$6 Midd students.

Dec

6

THURSDAY

MiddNight at the Teen Center in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 6, 1-8 p.m., Addison Central Teens, 77 Mary Hogan Dr. Teen friendly holiday games and snacks. Free.

Film and Media Culture fall student screening in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 6, 4 and 7 p.m., Room 232, Axinn Center, Middlebury

College. Join the Department of Film and Media Culture for the annual fall showcase of student work produced in Sight and Sound II and 3D Computer Animation. Free.

The Dance Company of Middlebury: In-Progress Showing in Middlebury.

Thursday, December 6, 4:30 p.m., Dance Theatre, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. The company is teaching and performing in a variety of communities, using dance as a platform for personal truth–telling and bridge building. This research will culminate in an original evening length work to be performed and toured in January. Come take a sneak peek at “Warrior Work: Show Up. Tell the Truth.” Free.

Christmas decorating contest in Brandon.

Thursday, Dec. 6, 5 p.m., downtown. Come see the holiday lights in Brandon. Judges will be on the streets on starting at 5 p.m.

Midd Night Stroll in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m., downtown and the Marble Works.

Middlebury businesses will be open late with sales, specials, pop-ups and lots more. Free gift wrapping at Community Barn Ventures and the Hot Cocoa hut serving up cocoa and fixings for 25 cents a cup. A Very Merry Middlebury event.

Magic on Main in Vergennes. Thursday, Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m., locations downtown. Shops open for an evening of specials, wine tastings, open house and local holiday shopping.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 6, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-aplay musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot.

Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Dec

7

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A SHELF ELF finds a new place to hang out in the Sheldon Museum Miniature Christmas Tree Raffle exhibit that ran last December. This entry,

by Round Robin, is called “Elf DeShelfed.”

calendar

FRIDAY

Chocolate Walk in Bristol.

Friday, Dec. 7, 5-9 p.m., downtown. Bristol’s Chocolate Walk allows you to experience a complimentary chocolate treat, courtesy of the Main Street businesses. Spend the evening browsing the stores, nibbling a delicious chocolate indulgence, and getting the holiday shop on.

Over 20 unique vendors shared across multiple Main Street locations. Part of Bristol’s Cool Yule.

Candy Cane Hunt in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m., on the town green. The hunt for hidden candy canes begins at the corner of the Town Green next to the Veterans Memorial. Bundle up, bring your flashlight and help Santa find them all.

Memory Tree lighting in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 7, at 6:30 p.m., town green gazebo. Join us at the Gazebo on the green for an evening of music and a reading of all names of honorees. Bulbs may be purchased for $5 online

Quiet contemplation

29

MADISON QUIET, 20 months, contemplates her Christmas wish while visiting with Santa in December 2017 at Bristol’s Holley Hall.

H a ppy

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

at BristolVTRec.com. Deadline to purchase is Monday, Dec. 3.

Christmas music night in New Haven. Friday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m., New Haven United Reformed Church, Route 7, 4 miles north of Middlebury.

Join us for a time of Christmas songs, readings, and refreshments as we prepare for the holiday season. All are welcome. More info contact Judy at 802-897-2697.

(Continued on Page 36)

Complete your table… Happy Holidays! from

Weybridge, Vermont • 545-2119

PAGE 30 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Mary’s Apple Cake 6 med apples, Macintosh or Honey Crisp mix 1 TBS ground cinnamon 5 TBS granulated sugar For the cake 2 3/4cups flour 1 TBS baking powder 1 tsp salt

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1 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup orange juice 2 cups granulated sugar 2 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 4 large eggs 1 cup walnuts, chopped Heat oven to 350°

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Grease a Bundt pan. Peel, core and chop apples into 1 inch chunks.

Toss with cinnamon and sugar. Set aside.

Stir together flour, baking powder and salt in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, orange juice, sugar, vanilla and eggs. Mix wet ingredients into dry ones; scrape down bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated Pour half of batter into prepared pan. Spread half of apples (and their juices) over it. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and arrange the remaining apples on top. Bake for about 1 1/2 hours, or until a tester comes clean.* Cool cake completely before running knife between cake and pan, and unmolding onto a platter. * Tip: The apples love to hide uncooked pockets of batter, especially near the top. Make sure your testing skewer or toothpick goes not just all the way down to the bottom, but does a shallow dip below the top layer of apples to make sure it comes out batter-free. If the cake browns too fast before the center is baked through, cover it with foil for all but the last few minutes in the oven.

This cake is even better the second day – and is also perfect for breakfast sweet!

Maple-Apple Upside-Down Cake 1 cup pure maple syrup 3 Granny Smith apples—peeled, cored and cut into eighths 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt 3 large eggs 3/4 cup buttermilk 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 1 1/3 cups sugar

Step 1 Preheat the oven to 350°. Butter and flour a 10-inch round cake pan. In a large saucepan, bring the maple syrup to a boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat until very thick and reduced to 3/4 cup, about 20 minutes. Pour the thickened syrup into the cake pan. Arrange the apples in the pan in 2 concentric circles, overlapping them slightly.

Step 2 In a bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a glass measuring cup, whisk the eggs with the buttermilk and vanilla. In the bowl of a standing electric mixer fitted with the paddle, beat the butter and sugar at medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the dry and wet ingredients in 3 alternating batches until the batter is smooth; scrape down the side of the bowl.

Step 3 Scrape the batter over the apples and spread it in an even layer. Bake the cake for 1 hour, until golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool on a rack for 45 minutes.

Step 4 Place a plate on top of the cake and invert the cake onto the plate; tap lightly to release the cake. Remove the pan. Let the cake cool slightly, then cut into wedges and serve

Celebrate the Holidays at

Eat, Drink, and be MARY’S Seasonal Dining • Inspired Craft Cocktails

Holiday Tea

Sunday December 2, 2:00 3 course afternoon tea – perfect for holiday de-stressing

Harry Potter Grand Ball

a collaboration with Stonecutter Spirits Saturday December 8, 6:00 Food & drink inspired by Harry Potter – in the Red Barn

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Purchase $100 gift certificate & receive an additional $25 gift certificate FREE! Nov 24-Dec 9 Mary’s at Baldwin Creek •1868 N. 116 Road, Bristol, VT

802-453-2432 • baldwincreek.net

2018 Holiday Parties We offer a variety of all-inclusive holiday party options to meet your company needs. Show your appreciation of your employees with a festive gathering at Morgan’s Tavern.

Are you looking to get out for the holidays? Make your reservation now to spend Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve with us at the Middlebury Inn!

Our gift to you – we will give you a FREE $20 Gift Certificate for every $100 in Gift Certificates purchased!

(valid now through December 31, 2018 – there is no expiration on purchased gift certificates)

14 Court Square, Middlebury • 802-388-4961 • www.middleburyinn.com

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 31

Eat Like A King - Prime Rib! Pratt’s Store Certified Angus Standing Rib roast (will be cut and tied) **Full rack is 7 ribs (will serve 14-16 estimate 2 people per rib) Salt and Pepper

Sit back and Enjoy!

PRATT ’S STO R E Home cooking at it’s best

The Stoney Cucumber: In a generous rocks glass, muddle 3 basil leaves, once slice of cucumber and a lemon wedge. Add a half ounce of agave nectar, 1.5 ounces of Stonecutter barrel aged gin, then a splash of lemonade. Shake vigorously (to mix the agave). Serve and enjoy a refreshing cocktail to you and your friends.

Wasabi Panko Tuna Start with 6 ounce sushi grade ahi tuna portions. Dredge the tuna in a mix of clam fry & flour. Then battered lightly in wasabi paste (mixed thin, heat will go a long way). Then coat with panko bread crumbs and immediately submerge in fryer at 350. Flash fry for 1-2 minutes until bread crumbs are golden brown, tuna should be rare to medium rare in the center. Remove from fryer, slice into 1/2 inch portions and lay across plate. We find it best served with a sesame soy sauce and garnished with seaweed salad and wasabi peas.

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FIREANDICERESTAURANT.COM

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Allow Beef to sit at room temperature for 3 hours before cooking time.

Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 500 Place roast fat side up – insert meat thermometer into thickest part of roast

(without touching the bone) Roast for 15 minutes then reduce temperature to 325 As a rule of thumb...Allow 13-15 minutes per pound (rare) 15-17 minutes per pound

(med rare)- best to have a reliable meat thermometer Roast in oven until thermometer says 115 – 120 (rare) 125-130 (med rare) temperature will continue to rise after out of oven Check temperature 30-45 minutes before expected done time Once roast is done, remove from oven and cover with foil.

Let rest for 30 minutes before carving.

Cut away strings, remove bones (great for stock) Slice meat across the grain into 1/4-1/2 slices

Stoney Cucumber and Wasabi Panko Tuna

31

PAGE 32 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Autumn Sweater

Large Rocks Glass – Ice Ball 1 dash Regan’s Orange Bitters 1 dash Urban Moonshine Maple Bitters 1/2 oz. Averna 1/2 oz. Amaro Nonino 1 oz. Old Overholt Rye Garnish: Clove-Studded Orange Zest STIR, STRAIN, GARNISH

32

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Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 33

WhistlePig Cocktails MARSHMALLOW WORLD INGREDIENTS 2 ounces WhistlePig 10 Year Straight Rye Whiskey .5 ounce Ginger Liqueur .75 ounce Mocha Cream .25 ounce Cremede Cacao .25 ounce Rosemary Simple Syrup 4 drops Cocoa Bitters .5 teaspoon Cocoa Powder 1 piece Wondermade Bourbon Marshmallow 1 piece Rosemary Sprig Garnish DIRECTIONS Combine WhistlePig Rye Whiskey, Kings Ginger, cremede cacao, mocha cream, simple, bitters with ice. Shake the in double strain over ice. Top with a toasted Wondermade marshmallow and sprinkle cocoa powder overtop. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and holiday decor of your choice! Serve and enjoy. Bonus points: grate fresh cinnamon overtop as well.

APPLE CINNAMON WHISKEY SMASH 2 parts whiskey 1 part cinnamon simple syrup 1 part apple cider splash lemon juice 3 slices of apple 6 mint leaves CINNAMON SIMPLE SYRUP 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup water 3 cinnamon sticks 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon INSTRUCTIONS In a shaker, smash together apple slices and mint with a muddler. (Adding a cube of ice will help break apart ingredients.)

Add WhistlePig 10 Year Straight Rye Whiskey, cinnamon simple syrup, cider and lemon to shaker. Fill the shaker 3/4 of the way with ice.

Shake vigorously for 8 to 10 seconds. Strain into a high ball glass with crushed ice.

Garnish with cinnamon stick and mint leaf.

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Blackberry Chocolate Old Fashioned 2 ounces WhistlePig rye whiskey 3 dashes Aztec chocolate bitters 3 blackberries (two muddled, one for garnish) 1 brown sugarcube Slice of blood orange Muddle two black berries and brown sugar cube in the bottom of a glass. Add the whiskey and bitters; stir with cocktail spoon. Garnish with the blood orange and the remaining blackberry.

33

PAGE 34 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Thai BBQ Chicken Ingredients: 1 whole chicken Sticky rice

Fresh & Sumptuous Thai Cuisine lunch specials • dinner • take out appetizers • soups • thai salads • stir-fries curries • noodles • daily specials no msg added • vegetarian options • gluten free

SUSHi iS BaCK!

34

No sushi on Tuesdays

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Lava Roll

SeleCT WineS & Beer on Tap House specials choose from Duck or Fish specialties, prepared in a variety of Thai sauces.

ToDay’s specials sensational Thai flavor in an off-the-menu Thai surprise dish!

HoUrS Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm

Egg Roll

Monday-Friday 4:30-9:00pm Saturday & Sunday DINNER menu all day 12:30-9pm

Chicken Pad Thai

Please make reservations for parties of SIX or more.

10% oFF

ThanksgiVing – januaRy 5Th

oRDeR THai plus susHi DisH oVeR $50.00

& receive 10% oFF your order!

Offer valid with coupon only. Expires 1/5/19 Cannot be combined with other offers www.sabaisabaiThai.com FinD us on FaCeBook: sabai sabai Thai Cuisine or on inSTagram: sabaimidd

22 Merchants Row • Middlebury, VT • 989-7376

Marinade: 1 tsp. chopped lemongrass 1 tsp. chopped garlic 1 tsp. grated orange rind or orange juice 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. black peppercorns 1 tsp. cilantro root 1 tsp. soy sauce 1 tsp. oyster sauce 1 Tbsp. brown sugar Dipping sauce: 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 1/2 tsp. brown sugar 1 Tbsp. fish sauce Chili powder to taste 1/2 tsp. chopped cilantro or spring onion Instructions: For the recipe to be at its finest, it’s best to marinate the chicken overnight and grill it the next day, but if you don’t have the time, marinate the chicken for at least a few hours.

Mix marinade ingredients.

Butterfly cut the whole chicken, starting from the breast side down to the end. Flatten chicken out and lightly prick with a fork. Rub the marinade into all parts of the chicken. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Grill over a low, even heat, turning every 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through to the bone and the skin is dark golden brown — or bake into a 350 F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165 F. After grilling, cut chicken apart. Cut off the drumsticks and wings, and chop the rest of the chicken into strips or pieces.

Mix dipping sauce and serve with the sticky rice.

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 35

Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake

Ginger Chicken with String Beans

Maple Grove of Vermont, St. Johnsbury 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 1/4 cups graham crackcr crumbs 1/4 cup sugar 3- 8oz. packages cream cheese, softened 1 14 oz. can sweetened condcnsed milk 1 cup Vermont maple syrup

1 16 oz. can Pumpkin 3 eggs 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp nutmeg 1/2 tsp salt

1 pound chicken breast , sliced into thin pieces 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon rice wine 1 teaspoon sesame oil 2 teaspoons cornstarch 1 teaspoon sugar

Combine butter, crumbs and sugar, press into a 9 inch springform pan.

In large mixing bowl, beat cheese until fluffy Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth Add 1/4 cup syrup and remaining ingredients Pour into prepared Pan Bake at 300 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until set (center will be slightly soft) Cool then chill’ Top with Maple Pecan Glaze

For Perfect Holidays…

Warm Up To a Few Good Eggs!

Visit our Farm Store for the freshest eggs at the best prices!

From medium to super jumbo Flat of 20 Super Jumbo $5.50 18 Pack Large $3.75 Jumbo $3.00 X-Large $2.75 Large $2.50 Medium $2.25 Small $1.50/30 eggs Cage Free X-Large $3.25 Cage Free Large $3.00

Where the eggs comes first & the hens are treated right!

All Natural Cage-Free Eggs Available

Instructions 1. Add the chicken, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, cornstarch and sugar in a bowl.

2. Toss to coat and let sit for 15 minutes while you prep your vegetables.

3. In a large skillet or wok, heat the canola oil on high heat.

4. Add chicken and cook quickly, searing the chicken, cooking through and removing it as quickly as you can.

5. Add the green beans and onion to the wok and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened but still crisp.

6. Add the garlic and ginger, stir quickly for 15-20 seconds (you don’t want it to burn) and add the chicken back into the skillet.

7. Toss to coat and serve immediately.

Chef’s Specialties – A Sampling of our Menu General Tso’s Chicken or Shrimp Sesame Chicken, Beef or Shrimp House Crispy Chicken Tangerine Beef or Chicken Hunan Twin Delight Beef & Chicken w/Veggies Massaman Shrimp or Massaman Chicken Thai Curry Red Curry/Green Curry Chicken or Shrimp Black Pepper w/Onion Pork or Beef Coconut Shrimp or Walnut Shrimp

PLUS! All the basics covered: Milk, Cheese, Butter, OJ and Our Own Maple Syrup!

518 Maple St., Salisbury 352-4241 info@MapleMeadowFarm.com MapleMeadowFarmEggs.com

The Devoid Family Since 1946

HOURS Lunch: Mon. - Sat.: 11 am - 2:30 pm Dinner: Mon. - Thurs.: 4 pm - 10 pm Fri. & Sat.: 4 pm - 10:30 pm Mon. - Sat.: 2:30 pm - 4 pm Closed on Sundays

For Full Menu please visit: www.ricemiddlebury.com

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Maple Pecan Glaze: In saucepan, combine remaining 3/4 cup maple syrup and 1/2 pint whipping cream, bring to a boil. Boil rapidly 15-20 minutes; stir occasionally. Cool.

Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans (makes 1 1/4 cup)’ This glaze can also be used as a topping for ice cream or pound cake.

2 tablespoons canola oil 4 cloves garlic , minced 2 teaspoons ginger , minced 1 pound green beans , fresh, trimmed 1 cup onion , peeled, cut into 1/2 inch wedges

35

PAGE 36 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

Holiday (Continued from Page 29)

Broadway Direct in Vergennes. Friday, Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House, 120 Main St. Now in its 13th year, this brainchild of local resident and professional actor Bill Carmichael brings together some of his professional acting/singing/dancing friends from New York and Boston for an evening of familiar, funny, moving and exceptional Broadway tunes. Several local area high school students will also participate.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-aplay musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Dec

8

36

SATURDAY

Black

Breakfast With Santa in Bristol. Saturday, Dec. 8, seatings at 8:30, 9:30 and 10: 30 a.m., Holley Hall. Reservations required.

Tickets $10. Breakfast includes Pancakes, Sausage, and beverage. Bookings at www.

BristolVtRec.com Character Breakfast in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 8, seatings at 8:30 and 10 a.m., Middlebury Inn, 16 Court Sq. Have breakfast with favorite Christmas characters. Tickets and info at ExperienceMiddlebury.com. Hot Cocoa Hut from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A Very Merry Middlebury event.

Brandon Farmer’s Market annual holiday fair in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Neshobe School, 17 Neshobe Dr. Lots of vendors. Look for maple syrup, cheese, honey, baked goods, hand knit items in wool mohair, goat milk soap, canned goods, wooden toys, dried flowers, aprons, jams and jellies, jewelry, holiday decor and more. More info contact Wendy Cijka at 802-273-2655 or cijka4@gmail.com.

Wreath Making in Vergennes. Saturday, Dec. 8, 9-11 a.m., Otter Creek Room, Bixby Memorial Library, 258 Main St. Learn how to make your own wreath to decorate your home for the upcoming holidays. Wreath base, assorted greenery, ribbon, berries, cones and floral wire provided. Bring pruning shears or sharp scissors and additional decorations to share. Limited space.

Register at the library or laksamee.putnam@ bixbylibrary.org.

Old-fashioned visit with Santa in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-noon, Maple Landmark, 1297 Exchange St. Free toy to all children who come to see Santa.

Contra dance in Cornwall. Saturday, Dec. 8, 7-9:30 p.m., Cornwall Town Hall, Route 30.

Featuring Adina Gordon calling to live banjo and fiddle music by Red Dog Riley. $5-10/ person (sliding scale). All are welcome. No experience or partner necessary. Questions?

802-462-3722.

Rupert Wates in Brandon. Saturday, Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music, 62 Country Club Rd. Since coming to the U.S. in 2006, Rupert Wates has won more than 30 songwriting awards. Wates will perform his eclectic mix of acoustic, melodic art/folk, with flavors of jazz, vaudeville and cabaret. Show $20.

Dinner and show $45. Reservations required for dinner and recommended for the show.

BYOB. More info at 802-247-4295 or info@ brandon-music.net.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-a-play musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick,

calendar

phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Vocal Recital in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Center for the Arts, 72 Porter Field Rd. Students of affiliate artists Carol Christensen and Susanne Peck cap off a semester of vocal study with an evening of songs and arias. Accompanied by affiliate artist Cynthia Huard and by Annemieke McLane, piano. Free.

Dec

9

SUNDAY

“The Drowsy Chaperone” on stage in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 9, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Peasant St. The Middlebury Community Players stage this play-within-aplay musical show that uses all the clichéd plot devices of a 1920s musical, including mistaken identity, comedy schtick, phony accents, and dance numbers that don’t quite go with the plot. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Brandon Festival Singers in Brandon.

Sunday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m., Brandon Congregational Church, 1 Carver St. This annual tradition features wonderful holiday music directed by Gene Childers and featuring pianist Jean Childers. The season would not feel the same without this performance!

Free will offering. Brandon Lessons and Carols for Advent and Christmas in Middlebury. Sunday, Dec. 9, 4 and 7 p.m., Mead Memorial Chapel, Middlebury College. This annual traditional program combines choral music, congregational singing, and the Biblical texts of the season. The celebratory community service features the Middlebury College Choir, performing under the direction of Jeffrey Buettner, readings by students, faculty, and staff. George Matthew Jr. rings in the service with selections on the chapel carillon.

Donations collected for local charities.

Dec

10

MONDAY Glenn Miller Orchestra: “In The Christmas Mood” in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 10, at

7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. It’s a night of holiday favorites with the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra. Hear classics like “Sleigh Ride,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Jingle Bells,” alongside Miller staples including “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” “Moonlight Serenade,” “In the Mood.”

Dec WEDNESDAY

12

“Gaugin: The Full Story” on screen in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Dec. 12, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. The first full-length biography of one of the world’s most popular yet controversial artists. Part of THT’s Great Art Wednesdays series. Tickets $13 adults/$8 student (includes a $1 preservation fee), available online at townhalltheater.org or the THT Box Office at 802-382-9222, MondaySaturday, noon-5 p.m.

“The Hate U Give” on screen in Middlebury.

Wednesday, Dec. 12, TBA, Marquis theater, 65 Main St. Based on the bestselling young adult novel by Angie Thomas, this film is the second in Middlebury Showing Up for Racial Justice’s Seeing Color/Seeking Justice film series.

Dec

13

THURSDAY

MiddNight at the Teen Center in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 13, 3-8 p.m., Addison Central Teens, 77 Mary Hogan Dr. Teen friendly holiday games and snacks. Free.

Midd Night Stroll in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 13, 5-8 p.m., downtown and the Marble Works. Middlebury businesses will be open late with sales, specials, pop-ups and lots more. Free gift wrapping at Community Barn Ventures and the Hot Cocoa hut serving up cocoa and fixings for 25 cents a cup. A Very Merry Middlebury event.

Dec

14

FRIDAY

Eat, Drink and Be Merry in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 14, 5-9 p.m., downtown. Bristol’s newest event encourages you to visit multiple unique locations on Main Street for a terrific selection of local well-known musical acts, with accompanying wines, ciders, and delicious eats. Part of Bristol’s Cool Yule.

“Can You Ever Forgive Me?” on screen in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. In the latest installment of the MNFF Winter Screening Series Melissa McCarthy stars as Lee Israel in this true story of the best-selling celebrity biographer who made her living in the 1970s and 80s profiling the likes of Katharine Hepburn, Tallulah Bankhead, Estee Lauder and journalist Dorothy Kilgallen. When Israel is no longer able to get published she turns her art form to deception. Tickets $13.

Barn Opera: “La Boheme” in Brandon.

Friday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music, 62 Country Club Rd. Marcello the painter, and Rodolfo the poet, explore the varying degrees of love and infatuation; Marcello with the temptress, Musetta, and Rodolfo with their neighbor, the lovely and modest Mimi. All go through the extremes of the human existence with experiences of both love and loss. More details and tickets at barnopera.com.

Sisters with Santa

SISTERS MAE, GEORGIA and Anna Cannon pose with Santa at the Bristol Recreation Department’s annual Breakfast with Santa this past December. The festive event featured a pancake breakfast, horse-drawn wagon rides, musical guests and, of course, visits with the jolly elf.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Dec

15

SATURDAY Hot Cocoa Hut in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hot cocoa and fixings for

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 37

Holiday

calendar

Dec

17

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TUESDAY

Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony and open house in Middlebury. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 6-7 p.m., Homeward Bound, 236 Boardman St. Friends of Homeward Bound are invited to share their holiday cheer with shelter animals, enjoy seasonal delights, and participate in a tree lighting ceremony that celebrates pets, past and present.

Book talk in Brandon. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 7 p.m., Brandon Public Library, 4 Franklin St. Meet and discuss “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot.

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THURSDAY

Moonlight Madness in Brandon. Thursday, Dec. 20, 4-9 p.m., downtown. A time for shopping local with sales, discounts and specials. Stroll through downtown and drive to the outskirts. Enjoy the sights and sounds and visit with friends and neighbors. It is a time to catch a scrumptious bite to eat or warm up with something warm to drink. And last but not least, it is a time to support your neighbors and keep it local.

“West Side Story” on screen in Middlebury.

SUNDAY

Night Fires in Middlebury.

Sunday, Dec. 23, 3 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. A mystery play, a winter solstice pageant for our own times — rife with magic, beauty, humor and even tears. An intricate web of music, song, dance and story. Pre-show singing begins 20 minutes prior to the show.

Tickets $25 general admission/ $21 seniors/ $20 students available at townhalltheater. org and in person at Town Hall Theater (box office open Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.).

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THURSDAY

Video story hour in Middlebury. Thursday, Dec. 27, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Free. Eat popcorn while watching classic children’s books.

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MONDAY

Christmas benefit concert and sing-a-long in Middlebury.

Monday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m., United Methodist Church, N. Pleasant St. Join singers from local churches. Open to all, to support the housing and feeding program at Charter House. Offering will be taken. Refreshments to follow.

Dec

Street, and fire pits at Tandem and Vermont Tree Goods with hot drinks and tasty eats.

Part of Bristol’s Cool Yule.

Night Fires in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 22, 3 and 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. A mystery play, a winter solstice pageant for our own times — rife with magic, beauty, humor and even tears. An intricate web of music, song, dance and story.

Pre-show singing begins 20 minutes prior to the show. Tickets $25 general admission/ $21 seniors/ $20 students available at townhalltheater.org and in person at Town Hall Theater (box office open Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.)

At the mic

RICK CEBALLOS AND Lausanne Allen provide music for the Bristol Recreation Department’s Breakfast with Santa in Holley Hall in December 2017.

Independent file photo/Trent Campbell

Thursday, Dec. 20, 6 p.m., Community Room, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Middlebury Community Classic Film Club turns to a great musical classic. On the 100th anniversary of the birth of its composer Leonard Bernstein, this story raises the question of who is truly an American and how can we learn to live together. It’s also a wonderful tale of love, turbulence, and tragedy. Free.

Discussion to follow. Cookies, popcorn and good coffee. See great films with friends old and new.

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FRIDAY

Decorate a solstice lantern in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 21, 3:30-4:40 p.m., Community Room, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Free. All materials provided.

Watershed Center Winter Solstice celebration in Bristol. Friday, Dec. 21, 4-6 p.m., The Watershed Center, Plank Rd. Come celebrate the year’s longest night and the return of the sun to the northern sky with song, poetry, and a little pageantry, too.

This year, we’ll also honor the memory of our friend Jason Bacon and the sacred Ash tree. Readings welcome. Bring a dish to share and dress warmly. Leave dogs at home for this one. For details visit thewatershedcenter.org.

Holiday Shopper’s Evening with Wine Tasting in Vergennes. Friday, Dec. 21, 5-8 p.m., Creative Space Gallery, 214 Main

St. Enjoy seasonal food favorites paired with selected wines, courtesy of Vergennes Wine.

Night Fires in Middlebury. Friday, Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. A mystery play, a winter solstice pageant for our own times — rife with magic, beauty, humor and even tears. An intricate web of music, song, dance and story. Pre-show singing begins 20 minutes prior to the show.

Tickets $25 general admission/ $21 seniors/ $20 students available at townhalltheater. org and in person at Town Hall Theater (box office open Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.)

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22

SATURDAY

Free hot cocoa in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 22, Marquis Theater, 64 Main St. Stroll into the Marquis for a hot cocoa to get you through those last frantic days of holiday shopping. A Very Merry Middlebury event.

Santa Claus visits farmers’ market in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 22, 9 a.m.12:30 p.m., VFW, 530 Exchange St. Santa arrives at 9:30 a.m. and leaves for the North Pole at 12:30 p.m. Free coffee, tea, and seasonal music.

Lumen Celebration of Fire and Light in Bristol. Saturday, Dec. 22, 4-9 p.m., downtown. Come to Bristol for the annual Lumen Celebration of Fire and Light and experience lantern making at Holley Hall, fire performers on the town green, a lighted walk down Main

MONDAY

Countdown to Noon-Year in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 31, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., Community Room, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Crafts, stories, face painting, photo ops and fun. Free.

Best Night in Bristol. Monday, Dec. 31, locations across town. Join this Communitywide celebration of the coming New Year, with three music venues, food, activities, and holiday spirit.

New Years Eve fireworks in Middlebury.

Monday, Dec. 31, 7:30-8 p.m., Middlebury Recreation Park, Mary Hogan Dr. Bundle up for and enjoy the show. Brought to you by the Middlebury American Legion. Free.

New Year’s Eve with The Horse Traders in Middlebury. Monday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Ring in the New Year with The Horse Traders. Doors open at 8 p.m., the band kicks off at 9 p.m.

New Years Eve ice skating in Middlebury.

Monday, Dec. 31, 8-9:30 p.m., Memorial Sports Center, 296 Buttolph Dr. Middlebury Parks and Recreation invites you to on the skates and take some turns around the rink.

Free, including skate rentals.

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1

TUESDAY

First Day bird hike in Ferrisburgh. Tuesday, Jan. 1, 9 a.m., Button Bay State Park, 5 Button Bay. New Year’s Day birding trips are a tradition held by many in the bird watching world as they begin to fill their annual bird lists. Join Otter Creek Audubon when they combine that tradition with the fairly new tradition of First Day Hikes held at State Parks across the country.

Go online to see a full listing of ONGOINGE V E N T S

www.addisonindependent.com

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25 cents a cup. A Very Merry Middlebury event.

Old-fashioned visit with Santa in Middlebury. Saturday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Danforth Pewter Workshop, 52 Seymour St. Enjoy hot cocoa while visiting with Santa.

“La Traviata” live in HD in Middlebury.

Saturday, Dec. 15, 1 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts Michael Mayer’s richly textured new Metropolitan Opera production, featuring a dazzling 18th-century setting that changes with the seasons. Tickets $24 adults (+$2 preservation fee)/$10 students (+1 preservation fee), available online at townhalltheater.org or the THT Box Office at 802-382-9222, Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.

Winterfest celebration in New Haven.

Saturday, Dec. 15, 5 p.m., New Haven Congregational Church and town green, Town Hill Rd. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. with tasty treats and hot refreshments at the church. The Memorial Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m. on the town green, with decorating, wagon rides, fire barrels, s’mores, carols and Santa. Sing-along and caroling with a special guest in the church begins at 6:30 p.m. Free and open to all. ADA Accessible. More info contact Suzy Roorda at 802-453-5978.

Barn Opera: “La Boheme” in Brandon.

Saturday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music, 62 Country Club Rd. Marcello the painter, and Rodolfo the poet, explore the varying degrees of love and infatuation; Marcello with the temptress, Musetta, and Rodolfo with their neighbor, the lovely and modest Mimi. All go through the extremes of the human existence with experiences of both love and loss. More details and tickets at barnopera.com.

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PAGE 38 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

RESTAURANT

BREWERY

Contemporary comfort food and Hand-crafted beers

MUSIC MAKERS RAISED their instruments and their voices at the Watershed Center’s annual Winter Solstice Celebration at the Waterworks property off Plank Road in Bristol on Dec. 21, 2017. The solstice celebration returns this coming Dec. 21.

Photo by Jonathan Blake

Winter Solstice celebrations to be held in the county

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Thursday – Saturday 4:00 - 9:30PM Sunday – Wednesday 4:00 - 9:00PM 5 main street | Bristol, VT 802.453.3311 | thebobcatcafe.com

BRISTOL / MIDDLEBURY — The year’s longest night is coming up in just a month, and that means it will be time for two solstice-related events in Addison County. They are the annual Winter Solstice Celebration at the Waterworks Property on Plank Road in Bristol and the Night Fires winter solstice pageant at Town Hall Theater in Middlebury.

Revelers of all ages are invited to venture into the forest for the Waterworks Winter Solstice celebration on Friday, Dec. 21, and mark the moment when the sun stands still on the southern horizon and turns to begin its march toward summer. Everyone is invited to join in the fun from 4-6 p.m. and gather around the fire for a joyful evening of food, music, and midwinter pageantry as we summon the light from the season’s deepest dark and celebrate its return to the sky.

The Watershed Center Solstice Celebration harkens back to a distant age when the natural cycles of the Earth formed the calendar’s most important milestones.

Yule, the original winter solstice holiday, marked the rebirth of the sun and the return of the life it brings to the world — the traditional Yule log originally represented the resurrected sun. Bonfires also played a role in these year-end rituals, as did baskets of evergreen boughs, symbolizing eternal life, that were placed in homes to receive gifts from visitors.

The Watershed Center’s Solstice Celebration honors these traditions and their ancient fires. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the magic of the winter forest at night while making memories with friends and neighbors old and new. This year, participants will also honor the memory of Watershed Center friend Jason Bacon and the sacred Ash tree. Readings are welcome.

This is an all-weather snow-or-shine celebration; gather at the picnic area on the Norton Brook Reservoir at the Waterworks Forest in Bristol (about a two-fifths mile walk from the Plank Road parking area,

which is three quarters of a mile east of North Street). Ceremonies commence at 5 p.m. Traditionally Rick Ceballos and friends provide music.

Bring food and drink to share and dress warmly. There are a limited number of parking spaces, so carpooling to the event is encouraged, as well as heeding the parking restrictions on Plank Road. The Watershed Center reminds everyone to leave pets at home for this one and to remember to bring a flashlight and take care on the path — winter footing is never assured.

For more information, visit the Watershed Center at thewatershedcentervt.org.

NIGHT FIRES IN MIDDLEBURY In the meantime, Night Fires will present a mystery play/winter solstice pageant rife with magic, beauty, humor and even tears.

Organizers describe it as an intricate web of music, song, dance and story.

Themes for the show include: setting out, at the darkest time of year, on a journey into and through a fruitful darkness in order to arrive at the “light.” Sometimes it is only when the dark is darkest, that countless small, strong, shining pinpoints of light begin to show their faces for the first time.

With an eloquent plaiting of song, dance, poetry and prose, the production features music from folk traditions of many lands as well as contemporary folk and classical pieces, recent prose pieces, and dance that — along with the music — brings us always back to moments of utter timelessness in what has been called a “mystery play for our own time.”

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 21 and 22, and 3 p.m. on Dec. 22 and 23. General admission is $25; $21 for seniors and $20 for students — plus theater restoration fees.

Pre-show singing begins 20 minutes prior to each show.

More information is at townhalltheater. org.

Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018 — PAGE 39

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PAGE 40 — Holiday Guide, A special section of The Addison Independent, Thursday, November 22, 2018

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