Arts + Leisure
Hand to hand
Movies of 10 Vermont filmmakers will be screened at next week’s film festival. See Arts + Leisure.
The annual Field Days armwrestling competition once again drew a crowd last week. See Page 1B.
Field Days From dairy cows to skillet toss, see the results of competitions at last week’s fair on Pages 14A-16A.
ADDISON COUNTY
INDEPENDENT Vol. 70 No. 33
Middlebury, Vermont
◆
Thursday, August 18, 2016 ◆
Porter affiliation option draws support Physicians cite potential advantages By JOHN FLOWERS MIDDLEBURY — Porter Medical Center officials will spend the next few months determining whether the county’s health care hub should remain independent or pursue affiliation with the University of Vermont Health Network (UVMHN). And some key PMC stakeholders and health care industry observers
indicated this week that they are already leaning toward supporting affiliation. As first reported earlier this week in the Addison Independent, the PMC board has decided that if Porter affiliates itself with a larger medical institution, it will likely be with the University of Vermont Health Network (UVMHN). But the decision-
making process is in the preliminary phase. The board will continue to solicit input from the public and Porter employees on whether PMC should affiliate or continue to run independently over the next couple of months, and then meet with attorneys to craft a more detailed letter of intent. A final decision is not expected to be made until the spring of 2017. Proponents of affiliation contend
such a relationship with UVMHN would net PMC more on-campus amenities (such as a new medical office building), electronic medical records, a wider array of patient services and more financial stability in these changing times in the health care industry. Still, some remain concerned that a partnership would mark an end to 91 years of PMC calling its own (See Porter, Page 13A)
82 Pages
Orwell likely to vote again on school governance plan By JOHN FLOWERS ORWELL — After rejecting the notion twice this year, Orwell voters are likely to get a third opportunity to weigh in on a proposal to merge their school governance with that of five nearby Rutland County communities. The Addison-Rutland Supervi-
By EMMA COTTON ADDISON COUNTY—At Mary Johnson Children’s Center in Middlebury, 60 youngsters are enrolled in the center’s upcoming session. About 50 percent of those children’s families qualify for the Child Care Financial Assistance Program, which recently received an additional $1 million in state funding. Government funding for the program has remained stagnant over the past five years, leaving a $10 million gap between market childcare prices and tuition assistance, and the state’s childcare providers say families are struggling to pay the difference. The new funding will be directed primarily toward infant care. Before the increase, state-funded programs had not completely covered the cost of infant care, even for the neediest families. Now, more federal assistance will be granted to qualifying families with infants, but the gap in funding for children older than 18 months will stay the same. Robyn Freedner-Maguire, director (See Childcare, Page 6A)
Some on study committee dissent
TALIN TEAGUE JUMPS into the arms of fellow castmates while rehearsing the Town Hall Theater Young Company production of “Alice in Wonderland” Monday morning. Teague stars as Alice in the show that opens Aug. 23.
Independent photo/Trent Campbell
For those who love to see movies before everyone else, catching the documentary “Huntwatch” at the Middlebury New Filmmaker’s Festival next week will be a good FESTIV AL PR decision. OGRA M The international rights for the film, which is THUR SDAYAUGU SUNDAY focused ST 25 -28, 20 middfi 16 on seal lmfest .org hunting and narrated by actor Ryan Reynolds, have been acquired by two heavy hitters in the entertainment industry — Discovery and Lionsgate — and film will air on national television Sept. 22 at 10 p.m. on Discovery Channel. The film will be distributed worldwide later this year. You can watch it first at the festival in the Dana Auditorium on Sunday, Aug. 28, at 4 p.m. See a preview of “Huntwatch” in today’s Arts + Leisure section and read about all the (See By the way, Page 20A)
Index Obituaries ................................ 6A Classifieds ......................... 3B-7B Service Directory .............. 4B-5B Entertainment ........Arts + Leisure Community Calendar ........ 8A-9A Arts Calendar ........Arts + Leisure Sports ................................ 1B-2B
sory Union (ARSU) has formed a new Act 46 Study Committee, charged with considering a school governance unification plan for Orwell, Hubbardton, West Haven, Benson, Fair Haven and Castleton. The 14-member panel — which includes two Or(See Orwell, Page 13A)
Challenge to ANeSU unification is offered
$1M added to childcare subsidy fund
By the way
$1.00
‘Alice’ leaps away from traditional style
Young actors explore darkness and trauma in childhood classic By CHARMAINE LAM MIDDLEBURY — In Middlebury’s Town Hall Theater on a recent Friday morning, Anders Bright and Lana Meyer crouched, one nestled against the other, on the floor. Intertwining their hands, they experimented with waves, clasping and twisting their hands in search for the most unsettling effect that would do justice to the Cheshire Cat. Bright and Meyer belong to the Town Hall Theater’s Young Company, which is staging a production of “Alice in Wonderland” next Tuesday and Wednesday at 7 p.m. as part of a month-long summer program. For this final summer play, codirectors Lindsay Pontius and Kendra Gratton are
bringing to the stage a classic story about children and acted by children. The version of Alice that the co-directors introduced to the group of actors, ages 12 and up, focuses on the trauma in Alice’s journey. Pontius said it adds dimension and depth to the story beyond the whims and fancies that abound in popular versions of the tale. “(This version) was (written) coming right out of the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War. Drugs were prevalent,” Pontius said. “It’s coming out of that culture.” While some might argue that the focus on trauma is much too heavy for a company comprised
largely of children, Pontius and Gratton argue that only such a group would be able to capture the essence of Alice’s story. “They’re the right age,” Pontius said. “This is a girl’s journey, and (the actors) are coming at this with their own teenage trauma. Teenage is trauma. There’s a lot going on. Things aren’t the way your parents said it would be, you’re testing things out, and you have no way to explain (anything).” Alice’s journey is, after all, a female rite of passage — an equivalent to the trials teenagers face today. “The first thing the caterpillar asks Alice is (See Alice, Page 20A)
By GAEN MURPHREE BRISTOL — A trio of dissenters said no to the Addison Northeast Supervisory Union Act 46 Study Committee’s official plan for district unification, which was sent to the Agency of Education for review this month. The official proposal includes a “Minority Report” — authored by committee members Nancy Cornell, Herb Olson and Mike Fisher — that makes a passionate defense of the “value of local control” of ANeSU schools. Cornell and Olson of Starksboro and Fisher of Lincoln maintain that the committee process was flawed, that alternatives to the majority’s unification proposal were not sufficiently explored and that there are better ways to preserve what is already working in ANeSU, while still meeting the goals and requirements of Act 46, a 2015 law that aims to control school spending and improve education by unifying supervisory union governance under a single board that oversees a single budget. “There’s something in this about how important it is for community members to not only feel engaged in their school but to know that they have a genuine responsibility for their school in their community,” said Cornell, an educational consultant and former ANeSU associate superintendent. “That’s a very valued and vibrant part of what makes our communities work in Vermont as a whole and certainly in Addison Northeast. And I think that’s a lot to lose.” ANeSU voters will be asked to vote on unification Nov 8. The Act 46 Committee expects to (See Unification, Page 11A)
With little water, farmers consider new irrigation plans By EMMA COTTON SHOREHAM — At 2 p.m. on a recent sunny afternoon, a group of 20 farmers stood around a giant metal reel, which pulled a hulking irrigation gun 1,300 feet toward them as it turned. The gun showered water onto the otherwise dry Elysian Fields, owned by Joe and Kathleen Hescock, which were certified organic in 1998. The farmers were there to learn about something new for many of them — irrigating pastures where their cows graze. Bruce Howlett, a soil conservationist from the National Resources Conservation Service and an attendee at the Shoreham workshop, said that pasture irrigation is somewhat rare. But this summer has seen below average rainfall. National Weather Service data shows that precipitation in Burlington has been below normal levels since June 7. A normal amount of rainfall in the past 90 days would be about 275 mm (10.8 inches), but records show that Northwestern Ver-
mont has got only a little less than 200 mm (7.5 inches). At the Aug. 4 workshop, Joe Hescock explained the water spraying apparatus to the other farmers — how it works, what kind of water source it requires, how much it costs — because most other farmers don’t own irrigation systems anything like this. The group gathered for a tutorial that is part of an on-farm workshop series organized by UVM’s Extension Program and the Northeastern Organic Farming Association. Some members of the farming group were drawn to this workshop in particular to find out if a similar system might work for their own farms. The system is designed to water pastures. While most farmers consistently water their crops — fruit, vegetables, etc. — most do not water the areas where cows graze. The Hescocks own about 300 dairy cows and 325 heifers, and in order to keep up with the herds’ demands, the farm (See Irrigation, Page 19A)
JOE HESCOCK DEMONSTRATES the operation of a large traveling irrigation gun he is using on his Shoreham farm. The demonstration was part of a recent event sponsored by UVM Extension and the Northeast Organic Farmers Association that focused on irrigation systems for grazing fields.
Independent photo/Trent Campbell
PAGE 2A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
Ferrisburgh trucking firm eyes new home By ANDY KIRKALDY cally do not require Act 250 permits FERRISBURGH — Family- unless they are being subdivided as owned Ferrisburgh trucking firm part of the application, but she and J.A. DeVos and Sons Inc. is plan- John DeVos said officials essentially ning to move its operations from the considered the land to be part of a north end of town to a 9-acre parcel larger parcel and insisted on an Act on Tuppers Crossing, just off Route 250 permit. 7 and not far north of Vergennes. “We bought the 9 acres of propThe 35-year-old company, owned erty with the understanding it would in part by former selectman John De- not need Act 250, and it’s a beautiful Vos Jr., has for more than a decade piece of property for what we want it been sharing space further north in to be, and there was a little glitch in Ferrisburgh on Greenthe system,” Sue Debush Road with the other Vos said. DeVos family business, “We assumed a John DeVos said organic dairy producer house was going the business has now Kimball Brook Farm. to be built there, hired an environDeVos’ three sons are because on this mental lawyer and a involved in both conWilliston consulting cerns: One son, J.D. De- whole street and engineering firm Vos, is primarily focused there is nothing to resolve the misunon the farm, and the oth- except housing. derstanding as well as er two sons help operate We didn’t think handle obtaining the a trucking business that something so local and state perruns eight tractor-trailer mits that are required. out of character units and mostly hauls “Our company would ever be petroleum products. bought a 9-acre lot,” DeVos said the fam- plopped in the DeVos said. “And ily had been looking middle of our somebody made a for a new home for the road.” mistake. It certainly trucking business before — neighbor wasn’t on our part. buying the 9 acres of a Ken Villeneuve The state seems to former farm just west of think we bought the Route 7. 45 acres and then “My sons just want subdivided, which we to spread their wings a little bit and never did.” have a facility they can call their WORK QUESTIONED own, and we can’t do that here simOne neighbor between the 9-acre ply because it’s a farm,” he said. parcel and Route 7, Ken Villeneuve, The 9-acre Tuppers Crossing lot, believes what has been done so far not far from railroad tracks, is in Fer- should have required a permit. Villerisburgh’s Industrial District zone, neuve also contends the proposal for and “Freight and trucking terminal” the recently subdivided lot would not is listed as a permitted conditional fit in the area, and the intersection of use. That designation means the use Tuppers Crossing and Route 7 is not is allowed if approved by the Ferris- suitable for truck traffic. burgh Zoning Board of Adjustment, “We assumed a house was going to which may attach conditions after a be built there, because on this whole public process. street there is nothing except housZoning officials typically con- ing,” Villeneuve said. “We didn’t sider the impact of conditional use think something so out of character proposals on a neighborhood when would ever be plopped in the middle evaluating them, and conditions they of our road.” impose often include landscaping Villeneuve said the significant and other requirements to soften a grading and digging done so far on project’s impact. the lot should have been permitted. The first concrete step of the De- He said Ferrisburgh Zoning AdminVos family plans came in July, when istrator Ken Wheeling at one point heavy equipment began working told him it did in fact require a perthe land to lay groundwork for what mit. Villeneuve also said Wheeling DeVos said would be roughly an told him that Wheeling had advised 80-foot-by-100-foot building. But real estate broker Carl Cole, who he and his wife, Sue DeVos, said that brokered the deal for the land, that work halted because of a hiccup in the DeVos business needed a permit the state permitting process. for the site work. Sue DeVos said the misunder“He told Carl Cole what they were standing arose when one piece of doing was not a little landscaping,” paperwork listed the larger piece of Villeneuve said. “And he told me property from which the 9 acres was they need a permit, that that’s not subdivided. Commercial develop- landscaping.” (See Ferrisburgh, Page 3A) ments on fewer than 10 acres typi-
MARTIN MCGOWAN’S MASTERFUL metal sculpture “Fish on a Bike” is on display in downtown Middlebury through October 16.
Photo courtesy of Ethan Bond-Watts
Sheldon displays whimsical sculpture in garden MIDDLEBURY — The Henry Sheldon Museum of Middlebury, Vt., has expanded its current bicycle exhibit “Pedaling Through History” from its interior galleries and historic rooms to the outside period flower garden with the installation of “Fish on a Bike,” a fanciful, masterful metal sculpture by Martin McGowan of Newark, Vt. McGowan, a graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia, conceived the idea for the sculpture from the feminist saying “A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle,” often misattributed to Gloria Steinem, but authored by Patricia Irene (Irina) Dunn (born 1948), an Australian writer, social activist and filmmaker. The phrase, subsequently popularized by Gloria Steinem, became a favorite slogan among feminists. Later, U2 used the phrase as a lyric in their song “Tryin’ to Throw Your Arms Around the World:” Nothin’ much to say I guess Just the same as all the rest Been trying to throw your arms around the world And a woman needs a man Like a fish needs a bicycle When you’re tryin’ to throw your
arms around the world McGowan created the sculpture from multiple pieces of metal, many of which he fabricated together with found objects to include the forks from a Harley Davidson motorcycle and vintage Pontiac and Plymouth automobile hubcaps. He further describes the other sculptural components, all heightening its artistic impact as the steel is oxidized by natural components: “Antique wheelbarrow wheels and a vintage tractor seat. The goldfish sides are an old cement mixer; the handle bars are from a porter cable rototiller — that’s a weird one that I don’t know the history on, but I love old signage. The fish’s mouth is fashioned of two old railroad frogs designed to hold the track together from my friend Tim’s family, who were life-time railroad workers from Island Pond, so he knew what they were called. The base is a grate from an old barrel wood furnace. History fascinates me, but I must be honest I only know the origin of some of the items in my vast metal pile. I am getting old enough now I am becoming a relic myself.” Residing and working from a rural setting at the northern tip of Caledo-
VTrans responds to bridge project concerns By JOHN FLOWERS satisfaction to Cole during a meeting in EAST MIDDLEBURY — Vermont Montpelier late last month. His response Agency of Transportation (VTrans) offi- included appointing VTrans Chief Engicials on Aug. 9 vowed to win back Mid- neer Kevin Marshia and Wayne Symonds, dlebury officials’ trust following what lead structural engineer with the agency’s have been a series of delays Accelerated Bridge Proin launching the $40 million gram, to head a task force replacement of the Main “What we’ve heard to examine “every aspect” Street and Merchants Row loud and clear of the bridge construction rail bridges in the heart of … is that there’s schedule. Symonds was in the downtown. charge of the rapid replacea credibility and That promise came from ment of East Middlebury’s trust issue.” a new project management Sand Hill Bridge back in — VTrans Chief 2014. team that VTrans Secretary Engineer Kevin Chris Cole appointed a few The selectboard meetweeks ago after selectboard Marshia ing in East Middlebury last members blasted the agency week also included VTrans for its announcement that Project Engineer Joel Perthe rail bridges replacement effort would rigo and Jim Gish, the town’s community not begin until next spring, as opposed to liaison. this fall, as previously targeted. “What we’ve heard loud and clear … is Local officials conveyed their dis- that there’s a credibility and trust issue,”
Marshia told the board at the gathering held in the East Middlebury United Methodist Church. “We intend to earn back that trust, and that’s what we’re going to do.” Marshia and Symonds fielded questions and comments of concern from Middlebury officials, who among other things called for better communication between VTrans and the town. Selectboard members reiterated the community’s concern about a project that is expected to bring noise, dust, detours and parking challenges to the downtown area for the better part of two years. In the meantime, officials are concerned about the stability of the current 1920s-era rail bridges that are showing rapid signs or deterioration while continuing to serve a lot of traffic — including some massive trucks. “Those bridges are in peril,” said Se(See Rail bridges, Page 3A)
nia County, McGowan spreads his talents as an artist, welder, carpenter and teacher. He delights in the latter encouraging students over the years from kindergarten to college, with stints at Lyndon State College and the Riverside School in Lyndonville, Burke Town School and King George School in Sutton. “Fish on a Bike,” situated along the sidewalk in the heart of the village of Middlebury, has been subject to much commentary. Its title helps to reinforce the impact the bicycle had on women’s liberation, as articulated by suffragist Susan B. Anthony in 1896: “I’ll tell you what I think of bicycling. I think it has done more to emancipate women than any one thing in the world. I rejoice every time I see a woman ride by on a bike. It gives her a feeling of selfreliance and independence the moment she takes her seat; and away she goes, the picture of untrammeled womanhood.” Taking another approach is Anneke Oranje, Sheldon Museum supporter and member of the Middlebury Garden Club, who helps maintain the flower beds of the park where the sculpture is situated.
Following a teaching career in the Netherlands, Oranje became a bike tour guide, pedaling through Europe with an international clientele. She soon met an American cyclist on tour, whom she later married, eventually settling with him in Middlebury. She celebrates the combined social and liberating aspects of cycling. Regardless of the title of the sculpture, most viewers extol McGowan for his inventive, sophisticated welding skills coupled with his humorous, ingenious, visionary imagination, all resulting in “Fish on a Bike.” The sculpture and exhibit “Pedaling through History: 150 Years of the Bicycle, the Glenn Eames Collection” are on view at the Henry Sheldon Museum through Oct. 16. The Henry Sheldon Museum is located at One Park Street in downtown Middlebury across from the Ilsley Library. Museum hours: TuesdaySaturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday (through Oct. 16) 1-5 p.m. Research Center hours: Thursday and Friday 1-5 p.m. or by appointment. Admission to the museum is $5 adults; $3 youth (6-18); $4.50 seniors; $12 family; $5 research center.
Carol’s preparing for disruption By EVAN JOHNSON MIDDLEBURY — For the past 11 years, Middlebury residents and visitors have stepped into Carol’s Hungry Mind Café in downtown Middlebury for the coffee, baked goods and relaxed atmosphere to meet friends or do work. But with major construction on the horizon for downtown, café owner John Melanson is doing his best to make sure his Merchants Row shop will weather the disruption. “I’m planning on the worst, but hoping for the best,” he said. The anticipated $40 million project slated to start next spring is expected to last for at least two years and will involve replacing the rapidly deteriorating Main Street and Merchants Row bridges over the railroad. It’s an undertaking that will result in temporary detours, dust, noise and loss of parking downtown.
Melanson said construction hasn’t been good for business in the past. Five years ago the coffee shop remained open while front windows were replaced. Parking in front was still available, but the windows were boarded up during the work. In the two and a half months, Melanson said he lost $3,000 in sales. Previously reported details on Middlebury’s rail bridges project include 20-hour workdays with noise, dust, detours and traffic lighting. Current plans are for the project to be completed by the end of 2018, though those are still in flux. Melanson said he expects the disruption to be much larger and the potential losses to his business to be greater than the window replacement. “Locals won’t want to park at the Marble Works and walk all the way here to hear (See Carol’s, Page 3A)
Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 3A
Local VSP commander promoted, is moving on By JOHN FLOWERS Manley is a native of the Utica, NEW HAVEN — Michael Man- N.Y. area. He joined the VSP in ley’s eventful career with the Ver- 2000, soon after graduating from mont State Police is taking yet an- Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa. other twist. Lieutenant Manley, 38, He began his career as a troopis stepping down as commander of er at the Middlesex barracks. He the VSP’s New transferred to Haven barracks the VSP’s Bradin order to step ford Barracks in up as a newly 2005, earning the promoted captain rank of sergeant who will oversee in 2008. Manley the agency’s New was assigned to Haven, Rutland, the state police’s Shaftsbury, Royarson division alton and Westas a detective in minster barracks. 2011, serving in Manley — who that capacity altook the reins most two years. of the New HaHe was promoted ven barracks in to lieutenant in October of 2013 2013, the same — will succeed year he took the Capt. Rick Hophelm of the VSP’s kins as the VSP’s New Haven bar“Southern Troop racks on Oct. 20. C o m m a n d e r. ” Until recentHopkins in turn ly, Manley also is replacing Maserved as comLT. MICHAEL MANLEY jor Walt Goodell, mander of the who is retiring VSP’s Tactithis fall as commander of the VSP’s cal Services Unit. It’s a 19-person Field Force Division. unit through which the VSP assists Replacing Manley as leader of troopers and other law enforcement the New Haven barracks will be Lt. agencies at major crime incidents Chuck Cacciatore, who currently throughout the state. He stepped heads up the VSP’s Rutland bar- down from that position earlier this racks. The Addison Independent has year in order to spend more time reached out to Cacciatore, a longtime with his family. member of the force, for an interview Manley served a total of 14 years to share his background in law en- on the Tactical Services Unit, which forcement and describe his leadership features specially trained troopers style. State police are now searching called upon to deal with such incifor a new commander for the Rutland dents as armed barricaded suspects, barracks, according to Manley. suicidal persons, hostage situations, The New Haven barracks is head- high-risk warrant service, manhunts, quarters to an Addison County VSP active shooter cases and VIP secucontingent that, when fully staffed, rity. includes 12 troopers, three sergeants “There is a shelf life to dong that and two administrative support offi- kind of work and the demands that cials. Manley confirmed his main of- go along with it,” he stated in an earfice will remain in New Haven, from lier email announcing his departure which he will make regular visits to from the unit and its physical and the other barracks under his com- emotional rigors. Members of the mand. tactical unit and New Haven barracks “I literally just had to walk my had to cope with loss last year of Adstuff to another office on the build- dison County Trooper Kyle Young, ing,” Manley said. “I’m looking for- who died from heat stroke during a ward to (my new role).” Sept. 17, 2015 training exercise at Manley believes Cacciatore will the VSP’s Ethan Allen Firing Range be a great fit as leader of the Addison in Jericho. Young was participating County’s VSP force. in tryouts for the team. “He’s been on the job a long time While he is pleased to be moving and comes with a vast range of ex- into his new job, Manley will look perience,” Manley said. “He will do back fondly on his role as barracks well here.” commander. Manley successfully applied for “It’s been a very enjoyable expethe Southern Troop Commander va- rience,” Manley said. “I have no recancy. It is his latest move in what grets about doing the job here.” has been a rapid ascent through the Reporter John Flowers is at ranks of the VSP. johnf@addisonindependent.com.
From the fair THE DONNELL BELGIAN horse team, above, canters around the show ring during the Six Horse Hitch Show at Field Days on Saturday. Left, Savannah Rigg (on left) and Eliza Myrick are all smiles (and giggles) as they go for a spin on a Field Days midway ride last week. Independent photos/Andrea Warren
Carol’s (Continued from Page 2A) machines jack hammering and piledriving,” he said. “It’s just not conducive to a coffeehouse atmosphere. People walking in town won’t want to walk up a street with equipment in it.” Last year, Melanson decided to open a second location in New Haven. While the Middlebury Carol’s
Ferrisburgh (Continued from Page 2A) Wheeling this week acknowledged he had that conversation with Cole last month, but said he had changed his mind about whether a permit was required. “I don’t think he has created a parking space yet. I’m treating it as landscaping until he has permanent parking spaces,” Wheeling said. “So far he’s just landscaping. If he goes much further I’m asking him to fess up and get a real permit.” DeVos said the work on the land was intended to evaluate the lot’s subsurface to help plan the potential construction project, including by learning how much fill would be needed. He added that he had spoken to a member of the Ferrisburgh Board of Zoning Adjustment before proceeding. “I don’t think we did anything that was illegal,” DeVos said. “It was my understanding we could move dirt around, so that was what we were doing.” Villeneuve said he is also concerned because the trucking company also hauls petroleum products and hazardous waste, thus potentially threatening local water sources and the nearby Little Otter Creek. “There’s wells drilled in the land all around that,” he said. But DeVos said plans call for empty trucks to be parked on the parcel, and minor service work to them there, as is the case now on the family organic farm on Greenbush Road. “They go out empty, and they come back empty. It’s a housing facility where we can change a tire, maybe change the oil. That’s all we’re going there at all, wash trucks,” DeVos said. He acknowledged there will be some truck traffic. “Some will leave at 1 o’clock in the morning. Some will leave at 7 o’clock in the morning. It all depends on their schedule,” DeVos said. “But it will be absolutely no different than what we’re already doing.” He also said the final design would
is a popular sit-down establishment with a relaxed atmosphere, the second Carol’s at 7404 Route 7 in New Haven caters more to commuters, with a mobile app that allows clients to electronically pre-pay for their coffee and baked goods and pick them up on the go. “I’m trying to get that place profitable enough to support this place
when the time comes,” he said. “They’ll be going fast and this’ll be going slow.” Next month, Melanson plans to launch a fundraising campaign to support the New Haven location. For a $500 initial investment, customers will receive a free cup of coffee every day for a year. Carol’s on Route 7 currently oc-
cupies only part of the building where it serves coffee on the go, but Melanson said he plans to expand into the rest of the 1,900-square-foot building to include a diner that will serve three meals a day. While traffic slows in downtown, he hopes traffic to New Haven increases. “It’s got a beautiful view out back for dinner,” he said.
could do to get a more dependable end of life for the bridges, we would do that,” Symonds said. VTrans officials said they’ll have more information to share about the project schedule next month. At that point, they plan to ask Middlebury officials and residents for input into
decisions that will shape how the work takes place. For example, residents will be asked to weigh in on the prospect of 20-hour work days, or shorter work days that could accommodate longer periods of quiet time while slightly expanding the duration of construction.
Rail bridges minimize the visual impact. “We don’t have a spec design yet, but it will be attractive. It will have a little character to it,” DeVos said. “It will blend in. It will be a New England-type building.” Cole also said the zoning board has a history of attaching design conditions to projects it does approve, including the recent Champlain Oil Co. and Dollar General developments nearby on Route 7. “I’m sure part of any approval will include some landscaping,” Cole said. Villeneuve remains skeptical. He hired Bristol attorney James Dumont
to look into the project and said the work on the land only stopped on July 25 after Dumont did so. “He (Dumont) called the zoning administrator and it immediately stopped,” Villeneuve said. “I assume they knew they were doing something they probably shouldn’t be doing.” DeVos tells a different story — Act 250 officials told him to halt the work until the acreage question is resolved. “They did make me stop doing what I was doing there until this got cleared up,” he said. Andy Kirkaldy may be reached at andyk@addisonindependent.com.
(Continued from Page 2A) lectman Nick Artim. He asked the VTrans officials if the town should consider re-routing some of the heavier traffic. Gish suggested that the state consider inspecting the two bridges on a quarterly basis, instead of annually. Symonds said VTrans will do whatever is necessary to ensure the bridges remain safe, but added he is confident the structures remain strong enough to handle the wait they are being asked to support. “If we thought right now there was a safety issue, or something we
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PAGE 4A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
A DDIS ON INDE PE NDEN T
Letters
Editorials
to the Editor
Preserving Porter’s viability In America, losing one’s sense of autonomy runs strongly against our individualistic character; it tears at the fabric of our cultural heritage. We are a nation born of small villages, proud of our services, and reluctant to let go of what became community institutions. We cling to our small town independence and bemoan the loss of autonomy when the inherent inefficiency compromises an institution’s viability. It is not surprising, then, that area residents will view with skepticism Porter Hospital’s potential path to affiliation with the 800-pound health-care gorilla to the north: the University of Vermont Health Network. If the merger comes to be, UVMHN will control Porter’s budget and, therefore, its very lifeline. But is that a negative development? The Porter Medical Center’s board appears to be leaning in favor. Many among Porter’s medical staff seem to agree as well. A community board has studied the potential of affiliation and most agree that the potential gained outweighs the loss of autonomy. What’s the reasoning? In the best-case scenario, the loss of autonomy does not necessarily mean a loss of control. There would still be a Porter-based board of directors to advise the parent UVMHN board and reflect the county’s concerns. Porter’s operations would be little changed from a day-to-day perspective with a Porter CEO leading the show. And, most significantly, PMC would be able to tap into greater financial resources to create a far stronger medical facility. It is likely that, at least in the next several years, Porter services would be enhanced, our hospital and nursing home beds would be filled to greater capacity, our doctors would provide more surgeries and the hospital’s medical practices would attract more doctors to meet those expanding needs. That’s because Porter’s facilities are currently under-used and the UVMHN facilities are stretched beyond capacity. Porter Medical Center would likely be an outlet to provide more services and would receive needed financial investment. In the near term, then, it may well be in Porter’s best interest to affiliate and expand its services and facilities to as robust an operation as it could possibly become. That’s the rosy scenario. There are also practical considerations. In several areas, Porter faces critical needs. Its electronic medical record system, for example, is in desperate need of a transplant. UVMHN’s EPIC system is the perfect replacement, and part of the proposed agreement would be an influx of millions of dollars to install that system throughout the PMC network. Discussions have also touched on the possibility of a new medical office building, something Porter could not dream of having based on its current profitability. Smaller-scale enhancements and benefits would also emerge as part of a mutually beneficial partnership. Everything, as the song goes, could be coming up roses. Even so, there are longer-term concerns. As it is currently being discussed, the agreement between PMC and UVMHN contemplates a five-year time frame in which Porter’s core services would not be altered; afterwards, presumably, all bets are off. It could be that in year six, if UVMHN determines that certain services at Porter need to be consolidated at UVM, Porter’s services could be diminished. And if that were to become a yearly exercise, it might not be long — 20 years or so — before Porter Hospital became a shell of its current self, and area residents would have to get used to traveling to UVMHN for what we consider today as Porter’s core services. Or it could be that the Champlain Valley’s population continues to grow and PMC is needed more than ever. Into which crystal ball do you choose to peer, and with what reliability? ********** The appropriate response is that it is difficult, maybe impossible, to know what the world of health care will be two or three decades from now. But looking ahead 20-30 years should be the town’s primary concern. The question should be: What are we leaving the next generation? What should be certain is the bare minimum of services Middlebury-area residents will expect to receive from their local hospital. Town leaders should press that case. We should want the agreement with UVMHN to embrace in principle the medical services necessary for the greater-Middlebury area to thrive. Families must be confident they will have access to critical care and good family doctors. We need a healthy OB department so we don’t have to drive long distances to have babies and visit our doctors for the nine-months prior. It would be preferable to keep our current specialists and perhaps a few more. We should expect a hospital to provide a high level of emergency services, cardiac care and other basic necessities. To that end, our current medical community, and PMC board, should work together to outline the basic services needed and what could be reasonably expected. And why not push to extend the 5-year moratorium on preserving core services — a ridiculously short period in the scheme of things — to 10 years. A decade is long enough to encourage UVMHN to actually invest in Porter’s facilities and gain a payback, whereas five years is like tomorrow — close enough to stall and do nothing, knowing a few years down the road services could be consolidated and provided less expensively from its home base. And what of Porter’s exit strategy if things don’t turn out as planned? A liberal depreciation of the capital investment made by UVMHN on Porter’s behalf might be part of the deliberations — which will all be part of the process. Once the community agrees that affiliation is a logical next step, a letter of intent is signed and both sides delve into the nitty-gritty legal details of making the partnership work for both parties. What UVMHN hopefully can understand is Porter’s vulnerability and the community’s fear of its hospital being diminished. If that is not its intent, then assurances in the contract will come easily. The role community stakeholders must play is to be sure we ask the right questions and seek adequate guarantees that our town’s viability — which requires adequate medical services — remains sovereign. Angelo S. Lynn
ADDISON COUNTY
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Egrets grateful to taxpayers Early this summer on the Vergennes/Monkton Road I saw not one but five snowy egrets. I saw them feeding in front of the new salamander crossing. Putting my binoculars on them I saw they were gorging themselves on salamanders. On their behalf I want to thank the environmentalist who erected the crossing. I heard there were 81 salamanders counted at the crossing. Not bad cost effectiveness at forty-thousand dollars each. Alan Whitney New Haven
Many donated to help refugees A big thank you from the Weybridge Congregational Church to everyone who contributed to the “Welcome Supplies Drive” earlier this month. Over two days, residents from all over the county filled the church’s meeting room with kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies, bedding, bathroom and personal care items — all of it going to benefit refugees coming to Vermont under the auspices of the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program. The staff were very appreciative of the quantity and the quality of these supplies. VRRP relies on the community for donations of household goods like these to help settle these newcomers in their new homes. All who brought in contributions to this drive should know they made a real difference. Daniel Wright For the Weybridge Church Mission Committee
Rye hopper A GRASSHOPPER RESTS on a winning bunch of rye at Addison County Fair and Field Days last week. Independent photo/Andrea Warren
Vermont’s island getaway is special There are some places in Vermont so special, you almost want to keep them to yourself. But it’s time to share. Years ago, when our soon-to-be-high-school-senior was just in third grade, a classmate’s dad at Mary Hogan generously tipped us off to The Best Place to Family Camp in Vermont Ever. Ever. So here goes — whether this draws the ire of others who guard this particular “secret” or whether it’s just a public service — here goes. Burton Island. Make a reservation. Go there. Go there now. If not now, next year. Just go. When that other dad first told us that there was a state park with no cars, By Gaen that you could only get to by ferry, that Murphree was on an island in the middle of Lake Champlain, we were wowed with disbelief. “Really? No kidding?” “Yes. Really.” Backroad adventurists, we thought we’d covered a lot of miles investigating state parks, from Jamaica to Underhill, from Sweet Pond to Lake Carmi. But somehow we’d missed this one. And so our love affair with Burton Island began. Snapshots of some favorite Burton Island moments: • Four little girls (two of ours and two of a friend’s) in the mud, chasing frogs, giggling, slipping, and getting muddier and muddier. • Sitting at picnic tables outside the little store/coffee shop (it has a coffee shop!), sipping coffee and watching the lake and the boats and the swimmers.
• Playing croquet (we haul our own set over on the ferry). • Playing endless rounds of cards by lantern light. • The time the zipper broke off, somehow leaving us trapped inside our old, red Coleman tent, and we all escaped (big-butted grown-ups and skinny kids alike) out of the 12-by-12-inch “window” at the back of the tent. The memory of my six-foot-two husband wriggling out of that “window” and snorting like a dinosaur (why he said he was impersonating a dinosaur, I don’t know) still sets us off in fits of laughter. • Sitting at a campsite, watching the waves, feeling the wind off the lake, and listening to the wind rustling the leaves and the water lapping. • Walking the trails around the island. • Watching sunsets. • Watching stars. • Sudden storms that blow in, with fast-driving winds and hard-driving rain, loud and powerful enough to blow a tent away or send you crouching in the lean-to, just waiting it out, and then the peaceful sky returns. • Our dog’s utter happiness that she gets to go everyplace with us. • Stopping to admire the swamp white oak that towers above the “Larch” and “Apple” campsites, its aged bark deeply grooved. This tree is over 15 feet around (I have measured with outspread arms, more than once). It looks to be 50 or 60 feet tall, with snaking branches that extend out close to 90 feet in diameter. When you look up at its spreading branches, you realize that the tree is so huge (See Clippings, Page 5A)
Clippings
Minter, Scott: a philosophical duel The victories of Sue Minter and Phil Scott in the primary elections last week demonstrate that in Vermont it is still possible to win elections without running negative advertisements and in spite of being outspent at the end of the campaign. Of all the candidates seeking the governorship, Minter and Scott had the highest approval ratings in preprimary polls. They also received the largest proportion of their financial support from in-state donors contributing $200 or less. Other candidates relied more heavily on out-of-state donors, large contributions from Vermonters, or self-financing. The Minter and Scott campaigns are likely to remain positive through November. That might not be the By Eric L. Davis case for their surrogates and supporters. The Vermont Democratic Party might pick up Bruce Lisman’s theme that Scott’s coowning a business that contracts with state government represents an unacceptable conflict of interest. The Vermont Republican Party might pick up Peter Galbraith’s theme that Minter’s campaign contributions from the wind energy industry show that she is too close to industrial wind interests. The Republican Governors Association and the Democratic Governors Association might each spend about $1 million supporting their party’s candidate, and are likely to broadcast advertisements focusing on the candidates’ weaknesses as well as their strengths. The RGA will try to connect Minter to all of the areas where the Shumlin Administration has underperformed, such as Vermont Health Connect, and a Vermont labor
Politically Thinking
force that has fewer people working today than before the Great Recession. The DGA will claim that Scott’s record in the Senate and as lieutenant governor includes few if any accomplishments, and that he would be, at best, a caretaker governor. With only 12 states electing governors in 2016, the RGA and DGA will both have relatively more money to spend in a small state such as Vermont than during the off-year election cycle. None of the large states in which gubernatorial campaigns are the most expensive — California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois, Ohio and Pennsylvania — will be electing governors this year. In spite of all the sound and fury associated with what could be aggregate spending of $4 million on behalf of each major-party gubernatorial candidate, I see four large issues that will, in the end, determine the outcome of the election in November. These issues represent profound philosophical differences between the two candidates and their parties. Minter, and most Democrats, believe that a larger and more active state government is needed to reduce economic inequality in Vermont, to deliver more social services to low-income Vermonters, and to encourage economic development, especially outside Chittenden County. Scott, and most Republicans, believe that state government is too large, and that state government needs to get out of the way of the private sector, which is the best source of economic and income growth in Vermont. (See Davis, Page 5A)
Why Mt. Abraham limits cell access Recently, Mt. Abraham Middle School decided to limit students’ access to their cell phones during the school day. The faculty has noticed that over the years, cell phones make learning and teaching more difficult. We at Mt. Abraham are wholly committed to providing the best and healthiest educational opportunity for our students. It is because of our commitment to the students’ academic success that we came to the decision, through much debate and discussion, to eliminate free access to cell phones for the 2016-2017 school year. Though cell phones can be a tool for learning, more often than not, we witnessed cell phones getting in the way of learning. Students have been witnessed texting friends, surfing social media, even taking pictures of peers and teachers during class. Through apps like Snapchat, students can then caption the photos and post them publicly. More than a few times such incidences have been brought to administration, and often the student who has been photographed is an innocent bystander who is now the target of ridicule. Here is what our handbook now states in regards to cell phones: Cell phones are not to be used during the school day. Students will not be allowed to use their cell phones at any point between 8:20 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Students can have access to school phones when needed, and parents are free to call the school to send messages to their children. If a student needs to have a phone with them for after school hours, the phone must remain in their backpacks, or lockers, with the sound turned off. Any student using their phone without permission during the school day will have their phone confiscated until the end of the day. Repeated infractions will require a parent meeting. Cell phones are a fact of life. We can’t get around that. It has only been in the past five years or so that we are seeing middle school students bringing phones to school. It has become common to see students sitting together at lunch, all focused on their phones, and not engaging in conversation with each other. What should be an opportunity to connect in a social setting and relax and laugh with one another, has become more and more isolating for students who can’t part from their devices. Students this age have a very difficult time creating their own limits. Their brains are still developing and their lack of impulse control requires that the adults in their lives create boundaries for them. Middle school is a time of immense social and emotional growth. Their brains are becoming much more complex, and the addition of hormones makes navigating these complex social rela(See Letter, Page 4A)
Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 5A
Spinoza: the first secular Jewish intellectual Editor’s Note: This is the first in a series of essays about the Dutch philosopher Benedict Spinoza. By VICTOR NUOVO Historians have long observed that the Netherlands has played a leading role in the Renaissance, the great revival of learning and intellectual life in Europe after the Middle Ages. Two eminent role players are Erasmus and Spinoza. Erasmus of Rotterdam (14661536), the great humanist scholar, led the revival of classical learning in northern Europe, without which the great Enlightenment in science and morals that followed would never have occurred. He was also a leading Christian reformer, whose reforms of Christianity proved more lasting and amicable than those of his contemporaries Martin Luther (1483-1546) and John Calvin (1506-1564). He envisioned Christianity as a purely moral religion, tolerant, free of doctrinal controversy and sectarian violence, well founded upon common principles of peace and love. He was a lover of virtue wherever it may be found, within or without the Church. He regarded Socrates and other eminent pagans as true saints. Spinoza (1632-1677) was the first secular Jewish intellectual, which is to say, the originator of one of the most creative and fruitful traditions of modern culture. He was, I believe, the greatest modern thinker, and I hope that the essays
that follow will make this evident. Portugal, who were motivated by He was of Jewish ancestry. religious zeal and worldly greed. His birth name was Baruch, During the 14th and 15th which means “blessed,” and centuries, Jews in Spain and which he Latinized in later life; Portugal faced a choice: convert hence, Benedictus de to Christianity or Spinoza. His family suffer confiscation was prominent in of their wealth and the Portugueseexpulsion. However, Jewish community in those who converted Amsterdam, where they soon fell under found refuge during suspicion by the the previous century. Inquisition. Since They were merchants, their conversion was engaged in international forced, it was most trade, belonging to the likely not sincere, worldwide network of and it was supposed the Jewish Diaspora. that in their heart, The surname “de and in secret, they Spinoza” derives remained Jews, from the Portugese, which was often Spinoza on “d’espinhosa,” meaning true. In any case, “from a thorny place,” Nature, God and they were always which leading Spinoza under suspicion Politics: biographer Steven and regarded with An essay by Nadler interprets contempt, vilified as follows. Nadler as “marranos,” Victor Nuovo supposes that the family Middlebury College that is, as ritually had originally settled unclean, swine, pigs. professor emeritus in Spain, but in 1492, At the time of philosophy when Ferdinand and of Spinoza’s Isabella expelled the birth, 1632, Jews, they fled the briar Holland offered patch of persecution and found a more humane refuge. The refuge in Portugal, only to suffer Dutch government was secular the same fate in their adopted land and republican; there was no during the next century, thence they monarchy, no established Church, found refuge in Holland. In both although the Dutch Reformed instances, they had become victims Church stood at the sidelines of of the Inquisition and of the cruel secular public life and, motivated (See Spinoza, Page 7A) policies of the kings of Spain and
Notes from the College:
Could we put a name on it? As I write this I am looking at the new park emerging at the center of Middlebury town. Although the decisions that created the park predate my arrival, I know the history that led us to this moment involved a lot of difficult discussion before a path forward emerged. The present-day effect of the park, however, is dramatic. And whether I am downtown getting coffee or walking across campus, the number of people, both from the college and from the town, who draw me aside to describe their hopes and wishes for the space are even more numerous now that the park is becoming visible. I delight in these conversations, as they are tangible evidence of the close relationship between the town and the college that started in the late years of the 18th century and continues today. Bas Pedroli, the director of UNISCAPE, a European organization that focuses on landscape design and its effects on communities, has written that landscape both shapes our imagination and allows us to express our deepest values. With our new landscape, those values are indeed present. Suddenly, the college and the town can “see” each other more than ever before. And I think this is an appropriate metaphor for all that we have done together and all that we can do together in the future. This past year, my first at Middlebury, the college and the town have collaborated on many significant
Clippings (Continued from Page 4A) almost any main branch off the trunk itself could be a tree in its own right. It’s a little humbling how some of the most important things in life — time with family, being in nature, the peace and stillness to think quiet thoughts — are just so simple. Burton Island gives you that ferry ride to help make the transition. You park your car at — yes, it’s really named that — Kamp Kill Kare State
Park. And when the ferry sets off, you leave your car and your cares and your lists and your preoccupations behind. That 15-minute ride helps take you to another world where just worrying about starting a fire (one of my favorite occupations, from way back in my Girl Scout days) is enough. What I re-learn and re-remember — every visit — is that, along with the folks you love, a fire, a table and a little bit of shelter are all you really
need to make a home. Of course, Burton Island isn’t the only jewel in the sparkling crown of the Vermont state park system. Our state has no less than 52 parks, including 29 beaches, one swimming pool, 2,225 campsites, 605 lean-tos, 42 cabins, nine housekeeping cottages, and 44 picnic shelters. So what are you waiting for? Go jump in a lake! Literally. Get outta here!
teacher must address the behavior. When a teacher is addressing behavior, they are no longer providing content instruction. By eliminating cell phones in the school, we can reduce the number of behavioral disruptions during class. The students are also struggling with what appears to be an ever-present social media stress. The screen creates an emotional barrier for students. Screens remove the interpersonal component: the tone of voice, the facial expressions, the body language. It also removes the possibility of immediate feedback. Because of this, students will post comments online that they would never say in person to a peer. This creates an immense amount of stress for our students, and at times crosses the line into inappropriate, hurtful interactions. For some students, this makes the school a hostile environment. When you feel distracted, you are not available for learning. We recognize that cell phones can also be a powerful learning device. We have adopted some procedures around when and how to access the devices when they are going to be used to augment the learning experience. The teachers will be encouraged to incorporate electronic devices as they see fit when it will improve the learning experience. Students
will be explicitly taught when and how to access their devices. The biggest change will be the absence of cell phones in the halls and at lunch. We want to support an environment where students are engaging in face to face conversations. Though most of our parents have expressed their support on this change, some have told me that they are worried about having access to their student during the day to communicate changes in plans. As we did before cell phones became ubiquitous, parents will have the option to leave a message in the office that we can deliver to the students during the day. Furthermore, every classroom has a phone, as well as the front office, that students can use to reach out to parents should their plans change and they need to arrange transportation. We have no desire to limit communication between parents and students, and this new limit on cell phones does not apply to the high school. Our focus is, and always will be, improving the learning outcomes for our students.
Letter (Continued from Page 4A) tionships even more challenging. Mt. Abraham Middle School has added many elements to our curriculum to help students learn prosocial skills. This decision supports our goals in helping students practice those prosocial skills with their peers. What we know about how students learn is that person to person interaction increases the level of understanding. Students’ brains are more active when talking with a teacher or peer about the material, than when they are working independently. It is also an opportunity for teachers to witness the learning, and make formative assessments that will then inform the lessons. So much of learning seems invisible. The more we can get students to verbalize their thinking, the more able we are to improve their understanding. When students have access to their phones, their thinking is often interrupted by the buzzing in their pockets. They can’t help it. When a notification comes in, they will be tempted to check their phones. In addition to the distraction that a buzzing cell phone causes, the disruptions to learning go even further. All teachers have had a no cell phone rule in the classroom for some time. However, there are many students who continue to access their phones during class. When this happens, a
There’s still 12 days of summer before the school year begins, 35 days until the September equinox makes it autumn officially, and as many as 60 days of state park camping if you choose the right spot. And Seyon Lodge, the Vermont state parks’ guest lodge on a lake (they make a great breakfast!), is now open all year round. Reporter Gaen Murphree is at gaenm@addisonindependent.com.
projects — ones that were both af- have given me a strong sense of the fordable and ongoing. I view them ways in which local businesspeople as the epitome of our common val- are ready to tackle the biggest chalues. We have established two new lenges facing us, from the vitalstudent internships ity of our beautiat key cultural orgaful downtown and nizations: the Henry accessible and afSheldon Museum fordable child care of History and the to the rail bridges Town Hall Theater. project and AddiWe are delighted at son County’s visthe common eduibility in the state. cational converSome of these consations that have versations are more resulted! We have difficult than othcollaborated on a ers, but I am deeply much-needed dog impressed with our park, which is well capacity to have on its way towards them with respect, its fundraising goal. rigor and care. We have funded a As I think about long-term collabothe next steps for This week’s writer is ration with Elderly us to take togethMiddlebury College PresiServices as part of er, I hope to build dent Laurie L. Patton. their capital fund more of these ondrive. We hosted going, transfora meeting of the Vermont Futures mational partnerships. I also think project — a larger think tank gath- it might be time for us to name all ering data in a number of counties the things we do together as a sinto analyze and even jumpstart eco- gle initiative with many branches. nomic growth in the future. Our downtown landscape includes And we are in ongoing conver- wonderful new historical markers, sations about longer-term common and my heart sang when I read the projects such as economic develop- words describing the town-college ment on Exchange Street in Middle- partnerships on the marker next to bury, the Trail Around Middlebury the new municipal building. (TAM), and how Porter Hospital So here is an invitation and a and Middlebury can best leverage question. My invitation is: As we their assets to work together in the become even more visible to each future. I have been truly delighted other, please send us more of your at the community conversations I ideas for transformational partnerhave had the privilege to attend — ships. I am invigorated by the work whether it is our regular meetings we do together. And my question is: with the Middlebury selectboard, As we continue to build affordable, the Rotary Club breakfast, the Ad- sustainable partnerships, and tackle dison County Economic Develop- our big challenges, might we put a ment Forum, the annual meetings name on it? What would we name of our many cultural organizations, the particular “collective genius” the Vermont Business Roundta- that is Middlebury? I welcome your ble, EastView, or the Town/Gown thoughts. You can reach me at presgroup, among many others. These ident@middlebury.edu.
Community
Forum
Davis
Ellen Repstad Aassistant Principal Mount Abraham Union Middle/High School Bristol
(Continued from Page 4A) Minter and the Democrats believe that there is spare tax capacity in Vermont, among both upper-income individuals and the business community, to fund new initiatives. Scott and the Republicans believe that Vermonters are overtaxed, and that increases in taxes and fees on middle-income households in recent years are one of the reasons why the state has become less affordable. Minter and the Democrats believe that, in spite of the difficulties with Vermont Health Connect, state government has the administrative and technical ability to implement complex new programs successfully. Scott and the Republicans believe the emphasis should be on making current programs work well before taking on any new responsibilities. Finally, Minter and the Democrats believe single-party control of the executive and legislative branches can lead to continued progress for Vermont. Scott and the Republicans believe there is a need for both parties to share power, with a Republican governor checking and balancing a Democratic legislature. Eric L. Davis is professor emeritus of political science at Middlebury College.
Contact Your U.S. Senators Sen. Patrick Leahy 1-800-642-3193
433 Russell Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 senator_leahy@leahy.senate.gov
Sen. Bernie Sanders 1-800-339-9834
SRC-2 United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 www.sanders.senate.gov
“We like knowing we can turn to Elderly Services when we have a question.” Anita and Bob Duclos
PAGE 6A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
ADDISON COUNTY
Obituaries
William Collins, 97, of North Liberty, Iowa; formerly of Middlebury
NORTH LIBERTY, Iowa — William G. Collins, 97, passed in his sleep at Country View Senior Residence, North Liberty, Iowa, on August 14, 2016. Born in Roxbury, Massachusetts in 1918, he graduated from Medford (Mass.) High School, and obtained a degree in Animal Husbandry from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture at the University of Massachusetts. Before the war, he was employed as a milk-tester, traveling to farms throughout southern New England. After entering the Army Air Corps during World War II, he was trained for and flew 55 missions in the Pacific Theater as a navigator, mostly aboard a B24 bomber nicknamed “Pappy’s Passion,” part of the Jolly Rogers Heavy Bomb Group, seeing action in New Guinea, Luzon, Borneo, the Western Pacific, the Bismark Archipelago, China, the Southern Philippines and in the Air Offensive over Japan. Just prior to going overseas, he married his sweetheart, Eleanor Harrington, BERNARD MOEYKENS in Tonopah, Nevada. After the war, he was employed for a time as Herd Master at Eolia, the Rogers (Kimball), Elizabeth Thacker Edward and Mary Harkness Estate, (Corey); grandchildren Ryan Cote, Jonathan Cote, Amanda Roberts, April Allen, Christopher Roberts, Joshua Thacker; and great-grandsons Dawson and Jordan Cote. He is also survived by his sisters Loraine Germain, Berna Rexford (Douglas) (Continued from Page 1A) and Rosalie Spaulding (John); of the Let’s Grow Kids campaign, along with many, many nieces and lobbied for the funding in front of nephews. A Memorial Service and legislators. Though she’s glad that celebration of Bernard’s life will officials have recognized the probbe held at St. Stephens Church in lem, she says there’s still a long way Middlebury on Saturday, September to go. 10, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, “We feel like the million-dollar donations may be made to Addison increase is a good step in the right County Home Health and Hospice, direction, but it’s a baby step in the PO Box 754 Route 7, Middlebury, right direction,” she said. VT 05753. ◊ In 2014, providers charged around $205 per week for childcare, but the state’s baseline assistance fell short at $141.25, requiring families in poverty to shell out more than $3,300 per year, according to the Child Care Financial Assistance Program. Some childcare centers, like Mary Johnson, have been absorbing the cost instead of charging impoverished families the difference. “We don’t ask parents to pay a copay,” said the center’s co-director, Barbara Saunders. “If you qualify for 100 percent subsidy, we waive it because that family is in dire poverty.” Though Mary Johnson is able to provide high quality care, Jane Reilly, the Financial Assistance Program Specialist at Mary Johnson, says it’s impossible to avoid taking a hit. Reilly is stationed in a building adjacent to the children’s center and works with
located on Connecticut’s Long Island Sound (now the Harkness Memorial State Park). Subsequently, after a brief foray into produce cartage, he went to work for the USDA Farmers Home Administration, serving as County Supervisor in Windham County, Connecticut, and then, in
1958, transferring to the same position in Addison County, Vt., taking up residence in Middlebury. In that capacity, during the early 1960s, he facilitated financing for the Tri-Town Water District, the first USDA-financed rural water district in the country. Upon completion, he led a helicopter tour of the project for President Lyndon Johnson and the ranking members of the Congressional and Senate Agriculture Committees. Subsequently, the Tri-Town project served as a model for the financing of hundreds of Rural Water Districts throughout the U.S. During the early 1970s, he was promoted by the Farmers Home Administration to the position of Chief of Farmer Programs for the New England States, in which capacity he served the rest of his career, retiring in 1976. In retirement, he was elected and reelected several times to the position of side judge in Addison County Superior Court, serving in that role for a dozen years. Also in retirement, he served as a board member and treasurer of Elderly Services of Addison County, an organization dear to his heart, and one that he helped build from inception into a major community asset. He was
a Life Member of the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In his immediate family, he was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lillian; his brother Fred; his wife of 64 years, Eleanor; a daughter Eleanor Lea Collins; and a daughter-in-law Mary Aye Collins. He is survived by a son, William, of Vero Beach, Fla.; and son James, daughter-in-law, Susan, and two grandchildren, Kathleen and Virginia, of Coralville, Iowa. To the end, he was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews, and held dear by others in his extended family. He leaves many friends in New England, and in Coralville, Iowa, where he spent the last five years of his life. A service will be scheduled in Middlebury, Vt., at a later time. Memorials may be directed to Elderly Services, Inc., 112 Exchange St., PO Box 581, Middlebury, VT 05753; or Iowa City Hospice, 1025 Wade Street, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www. iowacremation.com under obituaries. ◊
Addison County families who need help paying for childcare. “Mary Johnson is very generous,” she said. “We’re always feeling the effects of it.” In some cases, smaller providers who decide against charging a copay must direct money away from care, a decision that can also affect employees. According to Freedner-Maguire, providers are hoping to fund the system themselves. With hopes of alleviating costs, providers often under-charge families for their services. As a result, many childcare providers earn around $25,000 per year – cutting close to the federal poverty level themselves. “There’s a natural tension within the overall childcare system,” FreednerMaguire said. Aimed at relieving this tension, several changes will be enacted at the state level on Aug. 21. The state will increase tuition assistance for infant childcare across the board. Families looking to place an infant in an at-home childcare facility or a 4-star rated center will see a 3 percent increase in state-sponsored funding. Families with a higher income will now be qualified for the Child Care Financial Assistance Program, as the
state will use an updated and slightly more generous version of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to judge eligibility. Until now, the state had been using the 2014 guidelines, which consider families with an income of $23,850 or lower to be eligible for the program. Now, families with an income of $24,300 or lower are eligible. The funding will also supplement costs for families with higher incomes. Starting Aug. 21, families who make an income 300 percent of the federal poverty level can have 10 percent of their child care costs covered by the state. Prior to this development, the support was limited to those with income twice the federal poverty level. “Even 25 dollars per month might be helpful in terms of what you can put into your grocery bag or gas tank,” Reilly said. Freedner-Maguire suggested that the program needs $9.1 million more to improve childcare in other areas, including early childhood programs for kids older than 18 months and a general expansion of childcare availability and aid. For example, many middle-income families now pay up to 40 percent of their earnings on childcare. According
to Stalled at the Start data, provided by Let’s Grow Kids, that can add up to $19,000 — more than in-state college tuition. With providers unable to hire more staff or expand, many children are left without quality childcare. In Addison County, Lets Grow Kids estimates that 81 percent of infants and toddlers do not have access to highly rated programs. “More than 70 percent of Vermont’s children under age 6 live in households where all parents are in the labor force and need some form of care outside of their home.” Freedner-Maguire wrote in an opinion piece for VTDigger.org. “Yet, more than half of families with infants and toddlers likely to need care do not have access to high-quality, affordable childcare.” Reilly agrees that $1 million won’t do much stretched over all of Vermont, but she thinks $1 million per year could make a dent in the program. “Then, I think eventually, the program would be in a place where it’s helping parents and families and providers, all at the same time,” she said. “That sounds like a reasonable goal. It seems like something they should invest in without even thinking about it.”
Bernard Moeykens, 85, Shoreham SHOREHAM — Bernard L. Moeykens, 85, a Vermont Horseman, peacefully passed away at UVM Medical Center surrounded by his family on August 9, 2016. He was born on his mother’s birthday, May 24, 1931, in Derby, Vermont, son of Lawrence B. and Flossie (Martin) Moeykens. He spent his early years working on the family farm where he developed his intense love of horses. Over the years he cultivated his inherent, natural ability with them. Bernard was never without a horse his entire life and trained and exhibited many different breeds especially Morgans and Belgians. He generously imparted his knowledge and passion for horses to anyone who showed an interest, and mentored many people of all ages. He had many memorable experiences in his life, but some of the highlights were driving his six horse hitch in many shows throughout New England, various public occasions including driving the Middlebury Fire Department’s antique horse drawn pumper, teaching a class about draft horses at the University of Massachusetts, training for multiple Morgan Horse farms prior to starting his own, Tari-Wey Stables, and being featured in many articles and magazines, especially Vermont Life’s 50th Anniversary Summer Edition. But above all, Bernard loved his family and his extended family. Because of his quick wit and great smile he had many friends wherever he went. Bernard was predeceased by his parents; his sister Lillian Corrow; and his brother Merle (Red) Moeykens. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; daughters Loray Cote (John), Robin Loveless (Ron), Lynn
Childcare
Rollande Shepard, 100, Starksboro STARKSBORO — Rollande (Frenchie) Shepard, 100, passed away Monday, August 15, 2016, at Pillsbury Manor South in South Burlington. She was born on October 30, 1915 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, the daughter of Joseph and Adele Laframboise Racicot. She was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church in Hinesburg and Home Den. She loved her family, gardening, cooking and quilting. She was happy and willing to lend anyone a helping hand and she work hard though out her life. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the whole staff for making Rollande so happy while living at Pillsbury Manor and especially the care and love given to her in her final days. God Bless you all. Survivors include her three children Lorraine Hallock of Richmond, Bruce Shepard of West Virginia and Phyllis Bonvouloir of Orwell; seven grandchildren; ten greatgrandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Floyd Shepard on October 1, 1994; a daughter Marie Shepard on November 6, 2011; and several brothers and sisters.
ROLLANDE SHEPARD
Summer soaring
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 18, at St. Jude Catholic Church in Hinesburg. Interment will be in Green Mount Cemetery in Starksboro. There will be no public calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Starksboro First Response, Attn. Cheryl Estey, PO Box 91, Starksboro, VT 05487. Brown-McClay Funeral Home in Bristol will be in charge of arrangements.◊
Julianne Holland, 53, Middlebury MIDDLEBURY — Julianne Holland, 53, died peacefully in her home on Saturday, August 13, 2016, surrounded by family and friends. She lived life with integrity, passion and conviction. She will be missed by her family, former clients and dear friends in many circles of fellowship around the world.
WILLIAM COLLINS
She is survived by her son Adriano Agudelo; sister Sarah Holland; mother Nina Holland, and father Thomas Holland. A memorial service date has not been set. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any organization that would be meaningful to you in her memory. Peace.
New Obituary Guidelines The Independent will publish paid obituaries and free notices of passing. Paid obituaries cost 25 cents per word and will be published, as submitted, on the date of the family’s choosing. The Independent offers a free notice of passing up to 100 words, subject to editing by our news department. Photos with either paid obituaries or free notices cost $10 per photo. Obituaries may be emailed to obits@addisonindependent.com, or call 802-388-4944 for more information.
Cremation With A Service... A Celebration of Life, for those left behind, helps those family members and friends with closure. Even though your loved one says “I just want to be cremated– no funeral,” they forget the Celebration of Life service is not for them, but for the ones left behind. A service is a healthy way to say good-bye.
Sanderson-Ducharme Funeral Home 117 South Main St. Middlebury, VT • 388-2311 sandersonfuneralservice.com
BRANDON STUDENTS KAYAKED at Fern Lake during the Neshobe School Summer SOAR program. SOAR collaborates with Green Mountain Rock Climbing Center (GMRCC) to offer outdoor adventures for students going into grades 5-7. Pictured, left to right, are Julie Carryer (SOAR Program Helper), Garacyn Mitchell, Logan Desforges, Leah Desforges, Steve Lulek (owner, GMRCC), Evelyn Manchester, Keith Carrara, Simon Martin, Cody Pariseau and Brady Diaz. Photo courtesy of SOAR staff
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Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 7A
Salisbury Community School Bus Routes SALISBURY — Salisbury Community School has announced its bus routes for the 2016-2017 school year. The times posted here are approximations, and will depend on road conditions and the number of students riding on a given day. Students should be at the bus stop five minutes before these posted times for the first few days. East Side Route (Sue Flynn, driver) Morning Run (No. 50) 6:57 a.m. Kampersville Laundromat 7:02 a.m. Route 53 to Fish Hatchery 7:04 a.m. South on Smead Road 7:10 a.m. West Shore Road 7:14 a.m. Upper Plains Road to turn around at 3091 Upper Plains Road 7:30 a.m. Lower Plains Road 7:35 a.m. Turn around — Clear View Drive 7:36 a.m. North on Route 7 to Robinson Trucking — turn around 7:45 a.m. Salisbury Community School Bus departs promptly at 7:50 for Middlebury Union Middle and High schools. West Side Route (Crystal Cole, driver) Morning Run (No. 769) 7:00 a.m. North on Middle Road. West on Columbus Smith Road. South on Shard Villa Road. East on Creek Road to Dewey Road. 7:10 a.m. West Salisbury Road to Dewey Road. South on Leland Road. 7:20 a.m. East on Morgan Road to West Salisbury Road. West Salisbury Road through village to Rogers Road. Turn around at Rogers Road. 7:35 a.m. Return to village. Town Hall. Maple Meadows Farm. North on Maple Street. 7:40 a.m. North on Route 7 to West Salisbury Road to Kelly Crossroad. Turn around at Holman Road. Cemetery to West Salisbury Road then South on Route 7 to West Salisbury Road to Kelly Cross Road. 7:45 a.m. Salisbury Community School Afternoon drop-off times depend on which students are riding the bus on a given day. If few students are riding, your children may arrive home earlier than these
listed times. For ALL elementary students K-6, please remember that students need a dated and signed note from a parent or guardian to be released at any place other than their usual stop. Students in grades K-3 will not be dropped at a home where no adults are visibly present. East Side Route (Sue Flynn, driver) Afternoon Run (No. 29) 2:30 p.m. Depart Salisbury Community School to Route 7 2:32 p.m. South to Maple Street 2:36 p.m. Left on Smead Road to Route 53/Lake Dunmore Road 2:45 p.m. Right on Route 53/ Lake Dunmore Road toward Fish Hatchery 2:46 p.m. Drop off at Kampersville Laundry/Deli 2:50 p.m. Turn around at North Pond Road 2:57 p.m. Right to Upper Plains Road 3:00 p.m. Turn around at 3091 Upper Plains Road 3:10 p.m. Continue through onto Beaver Pond Road 3:15 p.m. Right onto Lower Plains Road to turn around at Clearview Drive 3:16 p.m. Back down onto Lower Plains Road to Route 7 Proceed to MUMS & MUHS West Side Route (Crystal Cole, driver) Afternoon Run (No. 769) 2:30 p.m. Depart Salisbury Community School. Kelly Crossroad to Middle Road. 2:35 p.m. Left to Columbus Smith Road to Shard Villa Road 2:37 p.m. Left onto Shard Villa Road to West Salisbury Road 2:41 p.m. Turn around at the intersection of Middle/West Salisbury Road 2:45 p.m. Right onto Dewey Road. Turn around at Desabrais Barn 2:51 p.m. Right on West Salisbury Road 3:03 p.m. Right onto Leland Road 3:05 p.m. Left onto Morgan Road then right onto West Salisbury Road 3:06 p.m. Cross Route 7 to Maple Street continuing to West Shore Road 3:07 p.m. Turn around at Waterhouses, back to Route 7. Proceed to MUHS
Spinoza (Continued from Page 5A) by fanatical zeal, always ready to pounce. (The Dutch Reformed Church did pounce in 1672, when it lent its support to a coup, aided by religious mobs, which committed political murder by populist militias and by William III, Prince of Orange, who held the hereditary symbolic office of Stadtholder or head of state. In 1688, he and Mary, his English wife, became King and Queen of England. The Dutch Republic would survive — it was abolished in 1808 by Napoleon — but its glory and power were diminished.) In 1655, when Spinoza was just 23, he was excommunicated by the elders of the Jewish synagogue. The reason was heresy. What Spinoza’s heresy was is unclear. What is clear is that from that time on, he lived a wholly secular life. He practiced no religion, affiliated with no religious community, professed no faith. He became a stalwart supporter of the secular Dutch Republic, and during the coup of 1672 would have run out of his house to denounce the mobs had his friends not restrained him. He gave up his interest in the family business. To support himself, he learned to grind lenses, which were used in scientific equipment. He soon became expert at it. If he had any community, it was the universal commonwealth of learning and of the new science, of whom he soon became a respected and highly regarded member. He corresponded with the learned in several countries, and many of them sought him out. How he achieved all this in so short a time, and how he acquired a mastery of Greek and Latin, and of the philosophical literature of antiquity, still lacks a sufficient explanation, and it will always be so, for there is very little evidence to go on. It is most important to keep in mind that Spinoza resolved to live a wholly secular life and that he achieved this goal. He is often described as the first secular Jew, the
first Jewish intellectual, which is a state of mind and moral character highly to be prized, a universal human excellence. I grew up among Jewish intellectuals, which was unavoidable for anyone educated in New York City public schools during the Great Depression years and after. My earliest serious ambition, when I came of age intellectually, was to be a Jewish intellectual, although I am not, so far as I know, of Jewish ancestry. It has not left me. Now, this character of a secular Jewish intellectual is an indispensible key to understanding Spinoza. It is a latent but ever-present theme in the essays that follow, and I hope before I’m done to have explained it fully. One aspect of it must be clear from the start: a Jewish intellectual is someone well schooled in biblical learning who now regards it without belief. The Bible is just like any great book, written in a peculiar idiom, in various historical contexts, expressing beliefs and aspirations common to a particular human society and its changing fortunes; it is an expression of their moral and political aspirations and disappointments. Hence it is not something from which one can just turn away. The Jewish intellectual regards the Bible with sincere regret, with a sense of having lost something highly valued, yet knowing that it is irrecoverable, because all of the pious claims made within it and about it are false. What Spinoza was left with was a profound moral seriousness and a deep sense of irony. So, he set about interpreting the Bible as a secular book, yet possessing a noble yet worldly truth. More will follow. Postscript: For anyone interested in reading more about Spinoza’s life and place in history, I would recommend two recent books, which offer more than enough. Steven Nadler wrote “Spinoza, a Life,” and Jonathan Israel penned “Radical Enlightenment.”
Tapping into the nature of addiction Imagine a drug that can reduce And the NADA protocol has anxiety, help relieve pain and pro- spread worldwide to help people sufmote restful sleep. Now, imagine fering after natural disasters and war this drug offers “side effects” that atrocities. In New York City one day are positive like a after 9/11, a nurse greater capacity to at St. Vincent’s cope with life’s chalHospital in lower lenges; it isn’t addicManhattan obtained tive; and is extremely permission to treat costeffective to adfirst hospital staff, This week’s writer is Raminister. then rescue workers chel Edwards, M.S., L.Ac., And now, what if a licensed acupuncturist. and anyone in the this drug is not swal- She has a private practice community to ease lowed or injected, in Bristol and is a provider the effects of shock but is a therapy in- at Mountain Health Center and emotional trauherited from an an- in Bristol offering acupunc- ma. For five years, cient tradition that ture as part of the center’s the Red Cross paid stimulates the body’s integration of complemenfor this clinic, and natural capacity to tary care services. Going then extended these restore energetic bal- into its third year, Rachel benefits to the surance? vivors of hurricanes continues to offer Acudetox Welcome to acu- treatments at CSAC every Katrina, Rita and puncture! Wilma. Tuesday afternoon. Rachel Ever since the is a member of the Addison In Vermont there 1970s, slowly and County Committee on Opiare over a dozen surely acupuncture ate Addiction. NADA trained prohas emerged onto the fessionals offering healthcare scene in Acudetox around our country, and within the field of the state to people in recovery, vetaddiction acupuncture has a special erans of war and within the mental history. health arena. During the throes of the heroin Right here in Addison County for epidemic in New York City in the the past two years, every Tuesday af1980s, a dedicated group of work- ternoon Counseling Service of Addiers within the recovery field in the son County clients come together for Bronx brought in an acupuncturist a StressReduction/Acudetox group. from Montreal to teach the staff how Sitting in chairs or lying on mats to help with the intense symptoms on the floor, clients share an hour of withdrawal using acupuncture of restoration and relaxation quietly points in the ears and also body acu- together. The “drug” administered puncture. Long story short, it was is the stimulation of the own body’s determined that a combination of five particular points in the ear delivered daily by healthcare workers most effectively helped to alleviate symptoms of drug and alcohol detoxification, eliminated the need for methadone and increased retention in the recovery programs. This success in addiction treatment is only achieved when the ear acupuncture program is integrated along with counseling, support groups and other services. History was made and the NADA protocol was born. NADA is the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, a nonprofit group that promotes how to use ear acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment for addiction and mental illness. The NADA protocol (also known as Acudetox) has been integrated into recovery centers and healthcare settings throughout our country and around the world administered by people of all backgrounds trained by NADA.
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natural energetic chemistry to selfregulate and heal. It is important to note that Acudetox is one form of acupuncture and is not the same as whole body acupuncture. Licensed acupuncturists complete a fouryear clinical training and can offer Acudetox. Individuals trained by NADA are not acupuncturists, but are Acudetox Technicians supervised by licensed acupuncturists and regulated through the State’s Office of Professional Regulation. However, our current opioid epidemic has brought greater attention at both the federal and state level to the potential for both Acudetox and fullbody acupuncture to be covered by insurance for those struggling with addiction, pain, trauma and mental health imbalances who need a nonpharmaceutical response to their experience. In fact, this July a new law, Opiate Bill S. 243 came into effect in Vermont. The law grants $200,000 to engage a pilot project to offer acupuncture services to Medicaideligible Vermonters with a diagnosis of chronic pain. The Vermont legislation creates a project that will start with the development of an advisory group of pain management specialists. This funding to support research and the potential for greater integration of complementary services within the field of addiction is groundbreaking. Indeed, for the opioid crisis we need to embrace all of our tools and possibilities. Addiction
is a complex imbalance of both the individual and our society: there is no part of those suffering from addiction or the community that is unaffected. In this regard, addiction is a whole system disease. To meet this complex imbalance, holistic therapies such as acupuncture are powerful complements to counseling, Medication Assisted Treatment, peer support groups and other rehabilitative services. With increased funding for NADA trainings (i.e., more social workers and nurses administering the NADA protocol within the public health arena), continued research and greater insurance coverage of fullbody acupuncture, we will inevitably shift our dependence upon addictive pain killers. And, we will surely acknowledge the powerful tool within our hands that taps into the natural connection within ourselves and to one another. For more information, visit www. acudetox.com, www.vtaa.org and www.addictionhelpvt.com.
See more Letters and commentary on Pages 4A, 5A & 7A.
PAGE 8A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
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required: 802-247-5420 or denniswmarden@ gmail.com. Also on Aug. 26. Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival opening night. Thursday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater. The second annual MNFF kicks off with a screening of one of its top films. Festival runs Aug. 25-28 with screenings of about 90 films in three venues around Middlebury. For information, screening times and tickets, visit middfilmfest.org.
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Secret sauce THE FERRISBURGH FIREFIGHTERS chicken barbecue will be Saturday, Aug. 20, 4:30 p.m. at the firehouse on Route 7. The firefighters say their secret barbeque sauce is world famous and not to be missed.
Aug
18
THURSDAY
Ladies union salad supper in New Haven. Thursday, Aug. 18, 6 p.m., New Haven Congregational Church. Cold meats, rolls, salads, beverage and dessert. $8 adults, $4 children (ages 6-12), under age six free. Reservations: 802-453-5059. Walk-ins welcome. Historical society meeting in Bristol. Thursday, Aug. 18, 7 p.m., Howden Hall. The Bristol Historical Society members Sylvia Coffin, John Burbank and Reg Dearborn will be joint speakers on the O’Neill family farm, businesses and contributions to the history of Bristol. Info: 453-3439.
Aug
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Aug
22
SATURDAY
Green Mountain Club hike in Huntington. Saturday, Aug. 20, Camel’s Hump. Challenging hike up Camel’s Hump, a 2.5 mile ascent with an elevation gain of 1,060 feet. Info: Mike Greenwood, mike802vt@comcast.net or 802-349-5653. Town Wide Yard Sales in Bridport. Saturday, Aug. 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., around Bridport. Continues Sunday. Appraisal afternoon in Addison. Saturday, Aug. 20, 1-3 p.m., John Strong Mansion, Route 17W, one mile north of Lake Champlain Bridge. Bring a family heirloom and learn about it from an expert and have it appraised. $5 per object, limit two objects per person. Ciderstock in Middlebury. Saturday, Aug. 20, 2 p.m., Woodchuck Hard Cider. Live music starts at 3 p.m. Cold cider, food trucks, games, music. Firefighters chicken barbecue in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, Aug. 20, 4:30-7 p.m., Ferrisburgh Fire Station on Route 7. Chicken, baked beans, coleslaw, roll, cookies, drink. Jerry’s famous barbeque sauce is not to be missed. $11 adults/$10 seniors/$6 children under 12. “King Pede” card party in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, Aug. 20, 6:30 p.m., Grange Hall. Event begins with a sandwich supper and then on to an evening of fun and card games.
SUNDAY Town Wide Yard Sales in Bridport. Sunday, Aug. 21, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., around Bridport.
MONDAY
Preschool story time in Shoreham. Monday, Aug. 22, 10:30 a.m., Platt Memorial Library. Kids ages 3-5 are invited for stories, rhymes and fun in a themed story time. Craft and game also. Info: www.plattlib.org or 897-2647. Pie and ice cream social in Vergennes. Monday, Aug. 22, 6-8 p.m., Vergennes City Park. Homemade pies with vanilla ice cream and a cold beverage. $6. Proceeds will benefit Champlain Valley Christian School. Info: Julia 802-759-3318.
FRIDAY
Summer Carillon Concert Series at Middlebury College. Friday, Aug. 19, 3 p.m., Mead Chapel and surrounding lawns. Final concert of the summer, before the Language Schools’ graduation. The carillon in the tower of Mead Chapel will be played by George Matthew Jr., carillonneur for Middlebury College and Norwich University. He will play a program of Scandinavian and Irish carillon music. Free. Info: http://go.middlebury.edu/carillon.
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TUESDAY
“Alice in Wonderland” on stage in Middlebury. Tuesday, Aug. 23, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater. A Young Company production. Tickets $10 adults, $5 kids, available at the THT box office, 382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org.
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WEDNESDAY
Talent show auditions in Brandon. Wednesday, Aug. 24, 6-8 p.m., Brandon Town Hall. If you like to sing, play an instrument or dance, or have a special talent, try out for the third annual “Brandon’s Got Talent” show. Audition appointments required: 802-2475420 or denniswmarden@gmail.com. Also on Aug. 25 and 26. “Alice in Wonderland” on stage in Middlebury. Wednesday, Aug. 24, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater. A Young Company production. Tickets $10 adults, $5 kids, available at the THT box office, 382-9222 or www.townhalltheater.org.
Aug
25
THURSDAY
Geology walk and talk in Ferrisburgh. Thursday, Aug. 25, 4-6 p.m., Kingsland Bay State Park. State geologist Marjorie Gale will give a talk about the geology of the Champlain Valley. Meet at Hawley House (the stone house) at Kingsland Bay State Park. Talent show auditions in Brandon. Thursday, Aug. 25, 6-8 p.m., Brandon Town Hall. If you like to sing, play an instrument or dance, or have a special talent, try out for the third annual “Brandon’s Got Talent” show. Audition appointments
FRIDAY
Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival screenings. Friday, Aug. 26, all day, Town Hall Theater, Marquis Theater, Dana Auditorium (Middlebury College campus). The second annual MNFF runs Aug. 25-28 with screenings of about 90 films in three venues around Middlebury. For information, screening times and tickets, visit middfilmfest.org. Friends of the Bixby book sale in Vergennes. Friday, Aug. 26, 2-7 p.m., Bixby Library, Otter Creek Room. Vergennes Day book sale: Fill a bag for $10. Donations accepted for less than a bagful. Children’s books are 25 cents with the first five free. All profits benefit the Bixby Library. Community meal in Vergennes. Friday, Aug. 26, 5:30 p.m., Vergennes Congregational Church. Sponsored by Vergennes UMC, North Ferrisburgh UMC, St. Paul’s Episcopal, and Vergennes Congregational. Hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, broccoli salad, ice cream sandwiches. If you can volunteer, please speak with Chris Steadman. Talent show auditions in Brandon. Friday, Aug. 26, 6-8 p.m., Brandon Town Hall. If you like to sing, play an instrument or dance, or have a special talent, try out for the third annual “Brandon’s Got Talent” show. Audition appointments required: 802-247-5420 or denniswmarden@ gmail.com. Vergennes Day kickoff dance. Friday, Aug. 26, 7-10 p.m., Vergennes Opera House. Featuring “The Hitmen.” Snacks and beverages provided by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Vergennes. Info: www.vergennesday.com.
Aug
27
SATURDAY
Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival screenings. Saturday, Aug. 27, all day, Town Hall Theater, Marquis Theater, Dana Auditorium (Middlebury College campus). The second annual MNFF runs Aug. 25-28 with screenings of about 90 films in three venues around Middlebury. For information, screening times and tickets, visit middfilmfest.org. Friends of the Bixby book sale in Vergennes. Saturday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m.-1:45 p.m., Bixby Library, Otter Creek Room. Vergennes Day book sale: Fill a bag for $10. Donations accepted for less than a bagful. Children’s books are 25 cents with the first five free. All profits benefit the Bixby Library. Vergennes Day. Saturday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., City Park. Pancake breakfast, Little City 5K and 10K races, more than 65 vendors and crafters, horse-drawn wagon rides, bandstand music, chicken BBQ, children’s venue and annual rubber duckie race. Info: www.vergennesday.com. Green Mountain Club hike in Monkton. Saturday, Aug. 27, Raven Ridge, Monkton. Pleasant walk onto a ridge with overviews and geological formations. Info: Ivor Hughes, brhughes@accessvt.com or 802-453-4412.
Aug
28
SUNDAY
Green Mountain Club hike in Bristol. Sunday, Aug. 28, Watershed Center, Bristol. Moderate four-mile hike to cabin on ridge with possible extensions on side trails. Waterworks parking area is approximately 1.3 miles east of North Street, on Plank Road near the Bristol town line). Info: Ruth Penfield, ruthpenfield@gmail.com or 802-388-5407. Community volunteerism celebration in Rochester. Sunday, Aug. 28, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Rochester Town Park. The Rebuild Rochester Foundation (RRF), together with local community organizations, is celebrating community volunteerism on the fifth anniversary of Tropical Storm Irene in recognition of the people who volunteered to rebuild the community. New Haven River watershed stories in Bristol. Sunday, Aug. 28, 1-2:30 p.m., Holley Hall, Bris-
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Big day for the Little City THE 35TH ANNUAL Vergennes Day will take place Aug. 26-27 with a pancake breakfast, Little City 5K and 10K races, wagon rides, music, chicken barbecue, rubber ducky race, vendors and more. Info: www.vergennesday.com.
Independent file photo/Trent Campbell
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Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 9A
calendar
SUN SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18 SEPT 2016
COURSE RSE
18-mile & 6-mile timed runs, 2-mile family fun run/walk. All courses are loops on pristine trails through woods, farmland, meadow and river valleys, circumnavigating the town. (18-mile run capped at 100 runners.)
LOCATION
Start & end at Wright Park in Middlebury, VT. Postrace celebration with refreshments, prizes & music. All welcome, any ability. All proceeds help to maintain & improve the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM).
Registration open now at http://www.maltvt.org
Blast from the past: brewing KEVIN HANSON, BREWER and owner of Hogback Mountain Brewery in Bristol, will talk about brewing beer and his journey from home brews to a microbrewery on Sunday, Aug. 28, from 2-4 p.m. at Chimney Point State Historic Site in Addison. Info: www.historicsites.vermont. gov/chimneypoint. Independent file photo/Trent Campbell
Aug
31
WEDNESDAY
The Tintype Gypsies in Bristol. Wednesday, Aug. 31, 7 p.m., town green. A volatile combination of music makers offering up American folk punk. Free. Food vendors. Bring a lawn chair, blanket or picnic dinner and enjoy an evening of music.
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THURSDAY
Senior meal in Bristol. Thursday, Sept. 1, noon, First Baptist Church of Bristol. The menu is meatloaf, mashed potatoes, carrots, applesauce, homemade rolls and white cake with maple frosting. Suggested donation $4. Info: 802-453-5276. Twist o’wool spinning guild in Middlebury. Thursday, Sept. 1, 7 p.m., 49 Wilson Road. Meeting of the twist o’wool spinning guild, show and tell, followed by a spin-in and/or learn to spin. All are welcome. Info: 802-453-5960.
Sep
2
FRIDAY
Artist reception in Brandon. Friday, Sept. 2, 4-7 p.m. Compass Center, 333 Jones Drive, Brandon. Stephanie Stouffer’s paintings will be displayed in “The Creative World of Stephanie Stouffer” exhibit. Info: 802-247-4295.
FULL LISTINGS
ONLINE WWW.ADDISONINDEPENDENT.COM
LIVEMUSIC Hot Flannel in New Haven. Friday, Aug. 19, 6 p.m., Lincoln Peak Vineyard, River Road. Jinxbox and Jaela in Middlebury. Friday, Aug. 19, 7 p.m., Marquis Theater. Abraxas in Middlebury. Friday, Aug. 19, 8:30 p.m., 51 Main. Jinxbox and Jaela in Middlebury. Saturday, Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Two Brothers Tavern. 4 To The Bar in Middlebury. Saturday, Aug. 20, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music. American Zookeepers in Middlebury. Saturday, Aug. 20, 8:30 p.m., 51 Main. Cooper & LaVoie in Middlebury. Thursday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m., 51 Main. Keating 5 in Middlebury. Friday, Aug. 26, 8:30 p.m., 51 Main. Ken Silverman Trio in Brandon. Saturday, Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music. Comanchero in Middlebury. Saturday, Aug. 27, 8 p.m., 51 Main. Mogani in New Haven. Friday, Sept. 2, 6 p.m., Lincoln Peak Vineyard, River Road. John Funkhouser Quartet in Brandon. Saturday, Sept. 3, 7:30 p.m., Brandon Music. The Bombadils in Ripton. Saturday, Sept. 3, 7:30 p.m., Ripton Community Coffee House, Route 125, Ripton. Jeff Salisbury Band in New Haven. Friday, Sept. 9, 6 p.m., Lincoln Peak Vineyard, River Road.
ONGOINGEVENTS FARMERS’ MARKETS Brandon Farmers’ Market. Fridays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 27-Oct. 7, Central Park. Vegetables, flowers, plants, Vermont maple syrup, honey, baked goods, organic beef, goat cheese, hand-crafted and tiedyed items, jewelry, paintings and more. Middlebury Farmers’ Market. Marble Works, 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. Saturdays, May 7-Oct. 29; Wednesdays, June 15-Oct. 12. Baked goods, organic products, cheese and dairy products, crafts, cut flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables, honey, jam, jellies, preserves, maple syrup, meat and poultry products, wine, bread, plants, pickles, prepared foods, soap and body-care products, eggs, yarn, and cider. Open Farm Week. August 15-21, all over Addison County. Many farms will be open for visitors during this statewide event. Event details: www.diginvt. com/blog/openfarmweek. Vergennes Farmers’ Market. Thursdays, 3-6:30 p.m., mid-May through September, Vergennes City Park. Organic vegetables, berries, breads, desserts, crafts and takeout. SPORTS Co-ed volleyball in Middlebury. Pick-up games Monday, 7-9 p.m., Middlebury Municipal Gym. Jack Brown, 388-2502; Bruce at Middlebury Recreation Department, 388-8103. CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS ACT (Addison Central Teens). Drop-in hours during the school years: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 3-6 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday, 3-7 p.m. 94 Main St. (Middlebury Town Office building), below rec. gym. Teen drop-in space for kids. Hang out with friends, play pool, watch movies, and eat great food. Baking: every Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. Info: 3883910 or www.addisonteens.com. Addison County Amateur Radio Association. Sunday, 8 p.m. On the air on club repeater 147.36/147.96 MHz, 100 Hz access tone. Nonmembers and visitors welcome. Addison County Emergency Planning Committee. Last Wednesday, 5 p.m. State Police Barracks. Public invited. Addison County Republican Party. Third Friday, 7 p.m., Ilsley Library, Middlebury. 897-2744. American Legion Auxiliary Post 27. Fourth Monday, 7 p.m. American Legion, Wilson Road, Middlebury. Addison County Council Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Fourth Tuesday, noon-1:30 p.m. Addison County Courthouse in Middlebury. 3889180. Brandon Lions Club. First and third Tuesday, 7 p.m., Brandon Senior Center. Brandon Senior Citizen Center. 1591 Forest Dale Road. 247-3121. Bristol Historical Society. Third Thursday, 7 p.m., Howden Hall, 19 West St., Bristol. Champlain Valley Fiddlers’ Club. Middlebury VFW, 530 Exchange Street. Third Sunday (except Easter), noon to 5 p.m. Donation $3. Refreshments available. Looking for fiddlers young and old. Open to public. Info: 342-0079. The Hub Teen Center and Skatepark. 110 Airport Drive, Bristol. Open mike night, first Thursday of the month, 5:30-7:30 p.m., free for all ages; reserve a spot at thehub@gmavt.net. Info: 453-3678 or www. bristolskatepark.com.
LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer). Youth support group meets Monday nights, 4-6 p.m., Turningpoint Center, Marble Works, Middlebury. Info: 388-4249. Middlebury Garden Club. Second Tuesday. Location varies. Pat Morrow, 802-462-3741. NEAT (Northeast Addison Television) Channel 16. Fourth Monday, 5-7 p.m. NEAT studio in Bristol. Bruce Duncan, bduncan@madriver.com. Neshobe Sportsman Club. Second Monday, 6 p.m. potluck; 7 p.m. meeting. 97 Frog Hollow Road in Brandon. Otter Creek Poets. Open poetry workshop held Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Ilsley Library in Middlebury. Poets of all ages are invited to share their poetry for feedback, encouragement and optional weekly assignments. Bring a poem or two to share (plus 20 copies). Led by David Weinstock. Free. Orwell Historical Society. Fourth Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Orwell Free Library. PACT (People of Addison County Together). Third Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Vermont state office building on Exchange St. in Middlebury, Health Department conference room. 989-8141. Salisbury Historical Society. First Saturday, 9:3010:45 a.m. Salisbury Congregational Church. Samaritan’s Cupboard. Assembly of God Christian Center, 1759 Route 7, Vergennes. Third Thursday through October. Vergennes Lions Club. First and third Wednesday, 6:45 p.m., American Legion. Club address: PO Box 94, Vergennes, VT 05491. Info: President Tim Cowan, 877-2382. Vergennes Rotary Club. Tuesday mornings, 7:158:30 a.m., Champlain Valley Christian School, 2 Church St. Breakfast served at 7:15 a.m. GOVERNMENT & POLITICS Addison Peace Coalition. Saturday, 10:30-11 a.m. Triangle Park in Middlebury. Citizens for Constitutional Government in Bridport. Thursday, 7-9 p.m. Bridport Community School. Learn about the U.S. and Vermont constitutions and how to defend our rights. Five-Town Area Vigil for Peace. Friday, 5-5:30 p.m. Bristol green. All welcome to speak out for world peace. Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Mobile Service Van. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Every Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m. Addison County Courthouse, in Middlebury. The van offers written exams, customer service and road tests. 828-2000. BINGO American Legion Hall, Middlebury. Wednesday. Doors open 5:30 p.m. with early birds. Jackpot $3,000. Food available. Benefits veterans, scholarships and community programs. 388-9311. Brandon Senior Center, Brandon. First and third Mondays. 6 p.m. Refreshments sold. 247-3121. Brandon American Legion. Tuesday, warm-ups 6:15 p.m., regular games 7 p.m. Food available, complimentary hot tea and coffee. Info: 247-5709. VFW Post 7823, Middlebury. Monday. Doors open 5 p.m., quickies 6:15 p.m., regular bingo 7 p.m. 3889468. FUNDRAISING SALES Bixby Memorial Library Book Sale, Otter Creek
Room, 258 Main St., Vergennes. Monday-Friday, 2-4:30 p.m. (Thursday, 2-6:45 p.m.); and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Proceeds support library programs and materials. Brandon Free Public Library Used Book Sale. Wednesdays, 4-7 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The 2016 season runs May 4 through mid-October. Ilsley Public Library Book Sale. First Saturday, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Vermont Room. Ongoing sale in The Last Word during library hours. Info: 388-4095. St. Peter’s Closet in Vergennes. Behind St. Peter’s. Open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Two Brothers Tavern’s Charitable Mondays. First Monday. 10 percent of entire day’s proceeds go to designated charity. DANCE, MUSIC, ARTS & EDUCATION Bridge at Ilsley in Middlebury. Thursdays, 5:30-8 p.m., Ilsley Library. Single players welcome. Info: 462-3373. Bristol folk session in Bristol. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., Hatch 31, 31 Main St. Open jam. Bring your voices, instruments, songs and tunes. Irish/Celtic, Maritime, Appalachian, Quebecois, Roots/Blues, World Music, Dead, Dylan. Info: www.vtceltic.com/ bristol-folk-session.html. Celtic jam session in East Middlebury. Third Wednesday, 8-10 p.m., Waybury Inn. Open session to play traditional Scottish and Irish tunes on acoustic instruments. All abilities welcome. Celtic jam session in Middlebury. First Wednesday, 8-10 p.m., 51 Main. Come swap Scottish, Irish and Canadian fiddle tunes. Open to all instruments and players familiar with Celtic sessions and jam etiquette. Info: mfloyd@middlebury.edu or 203-8238669. Chess and bridge clinic in Middlebury. Mondays, 3:30-5:30, Ilsley Library. Casual play and gentle coaching in bridge and chess. Chess club in Brandon. Saturdays, 12:30 p.m., Brandon Library. All ages and abilities welcome. Chinese conversation group in Middlebury. Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. Informal discussion in Mandarin Chinese led by native speaker Yinglei Zhang. Info: 388-4095. Classical string ensemble in Middlebury. Third Friday, EastView at Middlebury. Amateur ensemble looking for violinists. Info: 388-7351. College Session for Seniors in Middlebury. Elderly Services, 112 Exchange St. Classes for people over 60 in basic computer, opera, politics, history, international law and more. Call 388-3983 or e-mail college@elderlyservices.org. Computer lab open hours in Bristol. MondayThursday, 3:30-7 p.m., Mount Abraham Union High School library. Free access to the library’s electronic resources, courtesy of e-Vermont funding. Craft workshop in Forest Dale. Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m., Living Waters Assembly of God Church, Route 53. Free workshop for knitting, crocheting, or other crafts. Coffee served. Info: 247-3637. Creative writing workshop in Vergennes. Thursday, 6-8 p.m., Bixby Library. Free. Librarian Muir Haman guides participants through short-form writing and creative exercises. All experience levels welcome. Info: 802-877-2211
Hosted by the Middlebury Area Land Trust
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tol. Gabe Andrews, UVM graduate student in the Field Naturalist program, will use stories told by residents of the New Haven River watershed to help strengthen a sense of place and investigate the river through its natural history. Free. “Blast from the Past: Brewing” talk in Addison. Sunday, Aug. 28, 2-4 p.m., Chimney Point State Historic Site. Kevin Hanson, brewer and owner of Hogback Mountain Brewery in Bristol, is in residence on the Chimney Point porch to talk about brewing beer and his journey from home brews to a new microbrewery. Bring questions. Info: 802-759-2412 or www.historicsites.vermont.gov/chimneypoint. Town historical society picnic in Addison. Sunday, Aug. 28, 4 p.m., picnic area of Bud and Alice Bodette, 7240 VT Route 17 West. Bring a picnic lunch to share and your own beverage. Geoffrey and Susan Nelson will provide hamburgers, cheeseburgers, rolls and condiments. RSVP by Aug. 21 to 802-759-2399 or gsnelson@gmavt. net. Middlebury New Filmmakers closing night film and VTeddy awards ceremony. Sunday, Aug. 28, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater. Free. For information, visit middfilmfest.org.
Come Sample Summer Vegetables
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In the Marble Works – North Parking Lot 7EDNESDAYS 3ATURDAYS AM n PM s 2AIN OR 3HINE www.middleburyfarmersmarket.org
Board Member Spotlight Jane Sommers
The PCC has a great capacity for caring. They treat everyone as equals - from tiny babies & 3 year olds to teens, new workers and old - the same, with dignity, respect, and what you believe matters. They work on strengths, not problems. This kind of sanity in dealing with people works. It is proven by the PCC’s great statistics: lowest teen pregnancy rate in VT and, many years, in the whole USA, no low birth weight babies born to teens in Addison Co. most years, many PCC teen finding jobs, high % of nursing mothers, dads that are involved, and very low court involvement of teens in Addison Co.
acpcc@sover.net • addisoncountypcc.org • 388-3171
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PAGE 10A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
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TOWN
JAMES STEADMAN SERVED pie at the sixteenth annual Lobster Fest on Saturday, July 30, at the North Ferrisburgh United Methodist Church.
Church holds lobster fest NORTH FERRISBURGH — The North Ferrisburgh United Methodist Church held its sixteenth annual Lobster Fest on Saturday, July 30. The purpose of this meal is to offer intergenerational fun, welcome the community to the site and enjoy a great meal together. We have many young people in grade school through high school who really enjoy serving our guests. “The young people were so helpful and respectful. The parents should be commended,” is a common comment from our guests. “I love serving the people and making new friends,” is what our youngest servers tell us and we all agree. We had people serving at the meal aged seven through eighty-seven!
The weather was fabulous, the boilers produced perfect boiled lobsters, our parishioners provided beautiful homemade pies and our guests loved it. “It’s a fabulous meal, thank you,” said many of our guests. We raised over $4,000, which will help us reach out to our local community and beyond. We especially thank Laurie Curler, Jill Wilkens and Linda Lucia, our amazing co-chairs, and everyone who came and helped with the meal. We usually offer this meal the last Saturday of July so mark your calendars for 2017! You may choose from a whole lobster or half a chicken as your main entrée.
Doughnut day CAMP SONGADEEWIN CAMPER Addison Dunakin takes a doughnut from Middlebury Bagel Bakery owner Jim Rubright last week during Doughnut Day at the Salisbury camp. Rubright, who brought several dozen doughnuts for the camp’s special breakfast, was later serenaded by the campers with an original doughnut song. Songadeewin summer camp ends this Saturday. Independent photo/Trent Campbell
MUHS grad training to be a Navy pilot CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Middlebury Union High School 2010 graduate Lt. J.G. Ryan Foley is a student pilot with the “Stinging Stingrays” Training Squadron (VT-35), based in Corpus Christi, Texas, that operates the TC-12 Huron aircraft. As a student, Foley is responsible for learning to fly multi-engine and land-based aircraft to ensure he is properly trained and ready to perform duties as a Navy pilot in the fleet. “I like the people that I work with here at this command, both military and civilian,” said Foley. “We are all very close and we get along really well, which makes it fun to come to work every day.” We also balance each other out when training becomes difficult at times.” The TC-12 is an all-metal, low-wing, twin-turboprop monoplane training aircraft powered by two 850-shaft horsepower engines with a cruising airspeed of 281 mph. VT-35’s primary mission is to train future naval aviators to fly as well as instill leadership and officer values, Navy officials explained. Students must complete four phases of flight training to graduate, including aviation preflight indoctrination, primary flight training and advanced flight training. After successfully completing the rigorous program, naval aviators earn their coveted “Wings of Gold.” After graduation, pilots continue their training to learn how to fly a specific aircraft, such as the Navy’s F/A-18 Hornet strike fighter jet, the P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft or the SH-60 Seahawk helicopter. They are later assigned to a ship or land-based squadron. Many of the pilots will fly air-
Lightning strike at Brandon Town Hall interrupts concert
MIDDLEBURY NATIVE RYAN Foley, an officer in the U.S. Navy, is an officer with the U.S. Navy in Corpus Christi, Texas.
craft that take off from and land aboard aircraft carriers, a unique capability that allows the Navy to operate anywhere on the world’s oceans. Recently, Navy attack aircraft operating from aircraft carriers sailing in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and from Middle East waters have launched hundreds of strike missions against terrorist targets in Iraq and Syria. As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s squadrons with the newest aircraft platforms, Foley said he and other VT-35 sailors are proud to be part of a war-fighting team that readily defends America at all times. “This command is awesome and all of the instructors will tell you that this is the best squadron they have ever been to in the Navy,” said Foley. “Everything here is so efficient and you can tell everyone wants to be here.” Jobs are highly varied at VT-35, according to Navy officials. Approximately 28 Navy and 15 Marine Corps men and women officers along with 15 civilian employees make up and keep all parts of the
squadron running smoothly. This includes everything from training the new aviators, maintaining airframes and engines, processing paperwork, along with handling and flying the aircraft. “Every day I feel an extraordinary amount of pride to serve alongside our great nation’s most inspiring men and women,” said Cmdr. Arthur A. Hodge, commanding officer of VT-35. “Our team is filled with hardworking and highly qualified professionals who hold uncommon levels of responsibility and accountability in support of our mission: to maintain, fly and train future naval aviators. Their work ethic, commitment, enthusiasm and esprit de corps are second to none!” Serving in the Navy, Foley is learning about being a more responsible leader, sailor and person through handling numerous responsibilities. “The Navy has taught me responsibility for not only myself but for the people around me and the mission,” said Foley.
By LEE J. KAHRS nobody was going anywhere, so what else was there BRANDON — The Phil Henry Trio was halfway to do but to continue the show?” he said. through a concert at the Brandon Town Hall Saturday The next day, a more thorough assessment revealed night when the building was struck by lightning dur- that all six of the hall’s dimmer packs for the stage ing a severe thunderstorm. lighting were destroyed. Also, a number of bulbs blew To say it was electrifying would be an understate- in the stage lights, and at least two outlets along the ment. south side of the building were not working. It was over in a few seconds, but the bolt caused And that light over the balcony that lit up and then thousands of dollars in damage to the town hall’s popped? Brown said no one had ever been able to figstage lighting system. ure out which fuse it was on. It was about 8:15 p.m. on Aug. 13. The concert had “That light hasn’t been on in over 20 years, maybe begun at 7:30 p.m. and town hall volunteers Mei Mei longer,” she said. “And when the lightning struck, the Brown and her husband, Bruce, were in the hall foyer light lit up, the bulb popped out and fell 10-15 feet and about to step outside the covered front doors for some didn’t break.” fresh air. There were 44 people in the audience, and Marden estimated the damage at about $8,000, not the hall was rather warm that night, with humidity including labor. An inspection of the town hall roof around 75 percent. did not reveal any point of impact or damage to the “There had been some thunder, and torrential rain,” exterior of the building. Mei Mei Brown said. “And then it was just the brightThe town of Brandon owns the town hall. Brandon est flash of light I had ever seen. It Public Works Supervisor Daryl was flash-BANG.” Burlett was in charge this week as “There had been some thun- Town Manager Dave Atherton is The lights went out, the hall’s der, and torrential rain. And emergency lights over the exits on vacation. Burlett called in eleccame on, and power returned after then it was just the brightest trician Jeff Patch to do an official only 10-15 seconds. But the dam- flash of light I had ever seen. It estimate on the damage and said he age was done. The hall’s light mix- was flash-BANG.” would submit an insurance claim as ing board, operated by Will Mathis, — Mei Mei Brown quickly as possible. was fried, rendering the stage lights “It shouldn’t be bad of a wait,” Burinoperable. lett said. “As soon as we get a quote, And the moment was captured on video. The show we’ll turn it into the insurance and hopefully we can get was being filmed and audio recorded for the Phil Hen- them back up and running by the end of the week.” ry Acoustic Trio’s live album. It is a brief but powerWith nine shows left in the town hall’s season, plus ful clip. The camera shooting from behind the band tryouts and rehearsals for the annual Brandon’s Got into the audience captures a loud crash. A light high Talent Show, there is still plenty of activity to illuabove the balcony lights up, and then pops. minate in the coming weeks. But Marden said if they A scream is heard at the same time. It was a startled have to, the shows will go on with basic lighting. In Mei Mei Brown. the end the shows will go on, just like the Phil Henry The lights go out, the emergency lights immediately Trio concert. come on. The band stops playing, and Phil Henry just “Nobody got hurt, which is more important than starts laughing. anything,” he said. “Everyone remained calm and “When it happened, it was definitely startling,” stayed until the end. The good news is, we now know Henry said via email on Monday. “The sudden crack, our emergency lights work.” flash of white and then a quick blackout of the lights.” Henry said the band will use as much of the recordBut when the power came back on a few seconds ing as they can. later, some of the stage lights returned and Friends of “Except for a song being interrupted, and much simthe Town Hall President Dennis Marden checked to pler stage lighting setup, we had a great night,” he said. make sure everyone was OK. “And what a story to be included in the liner notes!” Henry said one of his speakers also stopped workAs for Mei Mei Brown, she said she has never been a ing, but that wasn’t enough to keep him from playing. fan of thunderstorms, and this experience did not help. After a few minutes, Henry and his band finished the “It was quite an experience, and I never want to reshow under the house lights. peat it again,” she said. “A lightning rod might not be “Since it was still storming outside, and pouring, a bad idea.”
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Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 11A
State firefighter group honors Bristol’s best BENNINGTON — Bristol fireBristol FD Captain Amos Martin fighters made an impressive showing received the VSFA Line Officer of last Saturday, Aug. 13, at the Vermont the Year award for his leadership and State Firefighters Association’s 127th skills on the fire ground. Martin is annual conference, which was held in knowledgeable in all aspects of fireBennington. fighting and has set the standard for Each year the VSFA Recognition this position. He exemplifies teamand Awards committee must select work and his work ethic is a model from hundreds of for others to follow. nominations received Honorary Chief by fire departments Jarrett Kimball’s Officer Peter Coffey from all around the passion and care was recognized as the state. At this year’s an- for the Bristol VSFA Senior Firenual banquet and rec- Fire Department’s fighter of the Year. ognition ceremony the wheeled equipment Coffey spent 19 of members of the Bristol his 40 years as an AsFire Department were saves the tax sistant Chief for the well recognized for payers thousands department and since their commitment and of dollars he stepped down dedication to the de- every year in from that position in partment. maintenance costs. 2007 he has become Chief Brett LaRose one of the departreceived the VSFA ment’s finest ApparaFire Chief of the Year award for his tus Driver-Operators. His reliability, leadership and trust. LaRose’s pres- commitment and dedication to the ence, direction and expectations have department far exceeds department taken the Bristol Fire Department to requirements. a new level. One of his most notable Bill Elwell was recognized as the accomplishments was his commit- VSFA Firefighter of the Year. Elwell ment and dedication over the past is a 32-year veteran of the fire service eight years serving on various com- serving in many different roles along mittees to see the realization of a new his career as a professional volunteer fire station become reality. firefighter to include the position of
BRISTOL FIREFIGHTERS RECEIVED top awards last Saturday at the 127th annual Vermont State Firefighters Association conference, including Firefighter of the Year and Chief of the Year. Pictured from left to right are Jarrett Kimball, Amos Martin, Brett LaRose, Bill Elwell and Peter Coffey. Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier
Fire Chief in Pittstown. Elwell came to the Bristol Fire Department in 2008 and since that time has exemplified commitment and dedication to the department to include co-chairing the design committee for the Town’s new fire station.
Jarrett Kimball received the Emergency Vehicle Maintenance Technician of the Year award for his work in maintaining the department’s fleet of apparatus. Kimball’s passion and care for the fire department’s wheeled equipment saves the tax payers thou-
Unification (Continued from Page 1A) revise the report according to any Agency of Education feedback in late August and then submit it to the Vermont Board of Education. Given a thumbs up from the board, the committee plans to have its unification proposal on the Nov. 8 ballot. A yes vote would put ANeSU on track to meet the state’s deadline for getting voter approval by July 1, 2017, for what’s called a Regional Education District (RED) merger, with its concurrent incentives of four years of tax reductions and other carrots (see accompanying story). Cornell, Fisher and Olson believe that other choices will better benefit the towns of Bristol, Lincoln, Monkton, New Haven and Starksboro. REPORT SUMMARY The Minority Report asserts that the committee’s official proposal “falls far short” of the goals of Act 46, and that while education improvements are needed, these can best be met within the current governance structure. Voters should reject the unification proposal this November, say the trio, because it “has serious flaws.” Among these flaws are problems with the committee process itself. Cornell, Fisher and Olson maintain that because of “misinformation in the press and the failure on the part of state education leaders to provide ... correct information” the committee itself was misinformed about “available options (and) discouraged ... from taking the time to thoroughly explore all possible options.” The Minority Report faults the committee for not adequately engaging the community. It also faults the committee’s consultant (who was trained by the Vermont School Boards Association) with a bias toward a standardized unification. The consultant’s bias, argues the Minority Report, led to the committee’s embracing unification without adequately exploring alternatives. In terms of Act 46 goals of equity and quality, the Minority Report claims that the proposed benefits of the official plan are largely unfounded and that insufficient attempts were made to look at how equity and quality are being achieved and could be further achieved under the current governance structure. In terms of efficiency and sustainability, the Minority Report asserts that “the savings projected in the report ($140,237) are modest — only 0.058 percent of the combined FY 2017 budgets for ANeSU and its member school districts.” In part, states the report, this is because the district has already consolidated such services as special education, transportation, information technology and food service. So unlike other school districts, unification holds fewer benefits to ANeSU. Perhaps most interesting to many property owners, the Minority Report argues that the tax impact of the official plan for unification would be minimal (see “Tax report: Unification would save towns money” in the Aug. 8 Independent). Using the example of a $200,000 home in Starksboro, the Minority Report points out that the first year of savings would be just $129 and that by the final year of state tax incentives this would diminish to $38: “The authors of this Minority Report believe that these meager tax savings are not worth the cost of what will be lost with consolidation.”
Cornell, Fisher and Olson raise questions about: • Tax savings for households whose property taxes are calculated according to household income. • The tax impacts of debt from other towns coming into the new, unified school district. • Tax savings after the four years of incentives end. The report also questions whether the tax incentives won’t ultimately come out of taxpayers’ pockets and thus in reality provide no tax savings at all. States the report, “These incentives are not ‘free,’ because they are supported by statewide taxes. What
“When you read the language of the legislation it clearly says on the face of it that communities can present to the board that they have met the goals of Act 46 by maintaining the current structure or by coming up with an alternative structure. Yet we were advised time and again that the best way or the only way was to go with the preferred structure,” said Fisher. Talking about the supermajority vote on the official unification plan, Fisher reflected, “I don’t know how many of the yes votes are yes votes because committee members feel we have no choice and how many are yes votes because committee mem-
Unification law has carrots, sticks By GAEN MURPHREE Act 46 lays out carrots for communities that comply with the law and sticks for those that do not. According to the state’s timeline, communities that vote to approve what’s called a Regional Education District (RED) merger by July 1, 2017, and become operational by July 1, 2019, will receive four years of tax incentives, a $150,000 transition facilitation grant and a merger support grant. Communities that pursue what the Agency of Education calls a “conventional merger” face no deadlines for voter approval, but must be operational by July 1, 2019. These communities receive the four years of tax incentives and
is the tax burden required to raise state funds for these incentives? What is the net tax savings for residents when the additional tax burden is subtracted from tax incentives?” The Minority Report makes a passionate defense of the “value of local control” and lays out an approach to meeting the goals and requirements of Act 46 within the current governance structure. It concludes with recommendations to the Vermont Legislature, Agency of Education and Board of Education for ways to improve Act 46 itself. VIABLE ALTERNATIVES? Reached by the Independent, both Cornell and Fisher believe that fellow Act 46 committee members and the general public alike are misinformed about what’s actually possible within the law. From the dissenters’ point of view, many people feel they have no choice but to support the official unification proposal because there’s no other way. But the dissenters strongly disagree.
the merger support grant, but lose out on the $150,000 transition facilitation grant. Communities that pursue alternative structures or that want to demonstrate how current structures meet the goals and requirements of Act 46 must present a formal report to the Agency of Education by Nov. 30, 2017. There are no financial incentives for communities that pursue these options. Communities pursuing these alternatives forfeit the tax incentives, facilitation grant and merger support grant. For communities that fail to do any of the above, the secretary of education will propose a structure to the state board by June 1, 2018.
bers feel like this is the best choice.” Fisher did not fault Rep. David Sharpe, a Bristol Democrat who headed the House Education Committee that wrote Act 46. “Many committee members articulated we have no choice; we have to do this or else it will be imposed upon us. And I just don’t accept that. I know that Dave Sharpe and others did not approach this with a Montpelier-knows-best one-size-fits-all solution. And I am very confident that Dave and other legislative leaders would push back very hard on the notion that that’s what this is. And yet many people describe it exactly in those terms: ‘If we don’t do exactly what they tell us to they’re going to make us do it.’ “That concept is in the air. It is not uncommon that people will say to me on the street, ‘Wow, you’re working hard against this. Don’t we have no choice?’” Should ANeSU voters say no in November, there is still time, the three believe, to look more deeply at alternatives and find a solution that
better preserves the current strengths of the district’s schools while making needed improvements. Cornell feels that the Board of Education is beginning to show more willingness to consider alternative structures. The state board approved draft guidelines for alternative structures at its July 29 meeting and plans to consider a draft set of rules for schools looking to propose alternative structures at its meeting on Aug. 23 meeting. (See the related story). MAJORITY REBUTTAL According to Act 46 Study Committee Chair Jennifer Stanley, the “committee will prepare a rebuttal to the minority report, to be approved at our next meeting in late August.” In the interim, Stanley responded with the statement: “Within our communities and our committee, people are passionate about providing a great education to our students. After much discussion, analysis, and advice from a variety of experts, the committee decided to pursue a unified supervisory district with the belief that this provides the greatest opportunities for both efficiency and educational opportunities for our students. “Many of the concerns in the minority report were raised and discussed by our committee in our many meetings, and the committee determined what actions to take by our standard two-thirds majority decision rule. “It is clear that the authors of the minority report do not support Act 46, but that doesn’t change the requirements of the law. While Act 46 is the reason we looked more seriously at unification, a supermajority of the committee believes that unifying provides important benefits for our students beyond the potential tax savings of Act 46.” Committee members on both sides of the issue are unified in believing that what happens next is up to ANeSU voters. “It is time to let the voters weigh in,” Stanley said. Echoed Fisher: “The voters must ultimately make this decision. I know that there are many, many people who feel very, very strongly about our schools and about our communities’ relationships with our schools. And those people will engage to learn about the pros and cons of the proposal put before them. “The Minority Report, I think, will provide a place to learn about some of those pros and cons.” Reporter Gaen Murphree is at gaenm@addisonindependent.com. To read the Minority Report, go to page 54 of the official report, “Act 46 Study Committee Final Report and Articles of Agreement,” found at www.anesu.org.
sands of dollars every year in maintenance costs. Kimball’s number one priority and responsibility is keeping the apparatus in a constant state of operational readiness at all times and he has far exceeded the fire chief’s expectations.
These five men exemplify what it means to be a professional volunteer firefighter. They live up to the department’s mission and honor our core values daily: professionalism, integrity, respect, community service, teamwork and leadership.
New school governance rules being considered By GAEN MURPHREE At its Aug. 23 meeting, the Vermont Board of Education will consider a new set of rules regarding the criteria and processes for districts pursuing alternative structures for school governance than the ones favored in Act 46. On July 29 the board approved a draft of guidelines for these same districts. The intent of these new rules and guidelines, according to a document prepared by the Agency of Education and presented to the board in July, is “to assist districts to understand
the proposal process, (and) provide more detail regarding the information that districts need to provide to enable consideration of a proposal for an ‘alternative structure’ in the context of the final statewide plan.” According to the draft guidelines, districts proposing an alternative structure must “complete three tasks before Nov. 30, 2017”: • Evaluate “current ability to meet or exceed” Act 46 goals. • Meet with other districts “to discuss ways to promote improvement (See Alternatives, Page 20A)
Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 13A
Orwell mittee, the new district could potentially form with just the five Rutland County communities should a successful vote occur, according to Ryan. It would then be up to the Vermont Agency of Education to determine how Orwell could comply with ACT 46. Orwell’s representatives on ARSU’s new Act 46 Study Committee are Glen Cousineau (who was an Orwell delegate on the previous Act 46 panel) and David Carpenter. Cousineau is also the current chairman of the Orwell School board. State Rep. Alyson Eastman, IOrwell, has decided not to return to the study committee this year, according to Ryan. “I would like it known that she put a lot of hard work into the first process with the committee and we thank her for leadership, dedication and service as chair,� Ryan said of Eastman. As was the case the first time around, membership on the ARSU Act 46 Study Committee is based on the participating communities’ equalized pupil counts. West Haven and Hubbardton have one member each, Benson and Orwell each have two, and Fair Haven and Castleton are each entitled to four. Ryan said the committee was scheduled to have an initial meeting this past Wednesday, followed by another gathering in either late August or early September. He anticipates the committee will meet at least once per month. “Ultimately, we’re trying to do what the law requires,� Cousineau said of the committee’s mission.
Cousineau acknowledged “some very vocal opposition� in Orwell to the notion of unification. Some local residents have expressed concerns that governance consolidation could lead to an erosion of local control and perhaps ultimately the closing of the town’s elementary school. ARSU officials have said that Orwell has solid enrollment numbers and is in no danger of seeing its school closed. Cousineau added some local unification opponents seem convinced the state will ultimately repeal Act 46, and that it might be in Orwell’s best interest to hold out for such a decision. Cousineau does not agree with that strategy, and believes unification could net Orwell and other Vermont communities much more than potential property tax savings. “I think in the end the one thing that got missed the first time around is educational equality,� Cousineau said. “Even in our district, we don’t have educational equality, to say nothing about compared to the rest of the state. I think this is probably the best bet toward achieving educational equality. There are some parts of (Act 46) that I don’t like, but the biggest picture you’ve got to look at is the child’s education.� Locally, the Addison Central, Addison Northwest and Rutland Northeast supervisory unions have all approved school governance unification referenda. Addison Northeast voters will face an Act 46 referendum on Nov. 8. Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.
Addison County patients are already (Continued from Page 1A) shots, and instead having to defer to going to (UVM Medical Center) for UVMHN on some major decisions tertiary care.� There would be substantial details — such as crafting the budget and to work out if partnering ends up as the hiring of a new Porter CEO. PMC includes the hospital, Helen the PMC board’s preferred path for Porter Healthcare & Rehabilitation the organization. “There are a lot of folks who are and 12 physicians’ offices throughgoing to want more information out the county. The Independent this week from UVMHN, in terms of what reached out to several people within affiliation would mean in terms of the PMC community to get their re- access to services at facilities here, spective takes on a possible partner- versus up there (in Burlington),� he said. “Will services here be limited ship with UVM Health Network. DR. KRIS ANDERSON: Medi- so that it will be harder for (physicians) to do their cal staff president jobs for patients?� Porter Medical Anderson is opStaff President Dr. timistic, however, Kristofer Anderthat an affiliation son said that while with UVMHN he and his fellow would improve physicians are easervices for Adger to hear more dison County padetails about aftients, in terms of filiation, there apbeing able to ofpears to be ample fer more specialsupport for such a ized care at Porter, move. Speaking as while making adan individual phyditional services sician, Anderson more easily availbelieves affiliaable at UVM Medtion with UVMHN ical Center. would be “a good “There’s obviidea. It’s going to ously some trepimake the hospidation when you tal strongest, lonSEN. CLAIRE AYER don’t know what gest.� that final picture is Area physicians, Anderson believes, are well aware of going to look like,� Anderson said. the financial pressures PMC is fac- “The way I am looking at it, this is ing and the chance of ameliorating only the first step in a conversation.� ALICE LEO: President of Porthose troubles by partnering with a ter’s nurse’s union larger medical institution. Alice Leo is President of the Por“Overall — not just with Porter, but throughout the country — the ter Federation of Nurses and Health way to keep the hospital intact and Professionals, Local 5753. The PMC to continue to provide the kind of nurses officially unionized in Deservices we are proving in Addison cember of 2013. Union representacounty, it really is more likely that tives want more details on the posaffiliation will be able to do that than sible affiliation before weighing in continuing to try to do it alone,� An- on the issue, according to Leo. “Porter nurses demonstrate daily derson said. “With the way Medicare is going and the way the feds are their commitment to a safe, highchanging regulations, there are cer- quality healthcare environment for tainly things a small hospital is not all patients,� Leo said through a written statement. “This will remain going to be able to do alone.� Proceeding independently would our number one priority regardless require PMC to make substantial cuts of whether Porter affiliates with and explore new revenue streams, another healthcare system. At this according to Porter officials. An- point, we only know that Porter has derson is concerned that such cuts chosen the UVM Health Network might not be sustainable in the ever- pending ongoing negotiations and a changing health care landscape, both vote by the board of directors. Until more details are released on the in Vermont and nationally. “A lot of people see that consoli- terms of the affiliation, it is hard to dation in the medical industry seems comment; however, we will continue to be a trend throughout the coun- to push for nurses to have a voice in try, and even if people are skepti- the process and for patient access to cal about possibly affiliating with primary and specialty care services UVMHN, they are certainly aware located in Addison County.� DR. CARRIE WULFMAN: that that might be the way the world is going, and that (affiliation) might Chief medical officer for PMC “While it seems to be the general be the right choice at the right time,� opinion among the medical staff that Anderson said. He said he is not aware thus far of our biggest potential loss in the event any local physicians who are “com- we affiliate with UVMHN is a depletely� opposed to affiliation. And crease in autonomy,� said Dr. Carrie he understands why UVMHC finds Wulfman, chief medical officer for a potential partnership with Porter PMC, “it is my perception the providers believe that the multiple improveappealing. “We are the biggest hospital clos- ments in patient care through collaboest to them that is not part of their ration with specialists; integration of system,� Anderson noted. “A lot of our population health efforts; quality
and risk management; payment reform requirements; and an improved electronic health records system, would be real gains.â€? “Aligning with UVMHN could assist in bringing some of our offsite practices, as well as specialty coverage, onto our medical center campus, enhancing coordination of care and efficiencies,â€? she added. “Although the financially stabilizing effect of this affiliation is the overriding draw, I think Porter’s mission can be more effective and widespread with this potential relationship, leading to improved health in our entire community.â€? SEN. CLAIRE AYER Sen. Claire Ayer, D-Addison, is a member of the PMC Legacy Project Community Advisory Committee that has been studying possible affiliation for Porter. Ayer also chairs the Vermont Senate Health & Welfare Committee, which is at the front lines of Vermont’s health care reform efforts. She is also a Registered Nurse and once worked in the office of her late husband, Dr. Alan Ayer. “It sounds like a good idea to me,â€? Ayer said of a possible Porter affiliation with UVMHN. Like others, Ayer believes affiliation would give PMC more stability. “I’m not an expert in the finances of Porter, but all hospitals that offer up-to-date care have to look at continuously re-equipping and remodeling and re-training and re-tooling,â€? Ayer said. “We could probably make it (independently) day-to-day, but I don’t see how we can put aside the kind of funds that it takes to continually update the services that we offer. I see it as a real bonus, having a financial backup — because it’s in (UVMHN’s) best interest to be able to do the ‘special’ (procedures) and then move their patients to a great place for further recovery.â€? Affiliation, she said, continues to be the wave of the future in the health care industry. “When you look at the number of hospitals we have for the number of people, it’s important to make sure that not every hospital tries to do everything,â€? she said. Ayer acknowledged that autonomy is not easy to give up, but she believes PMC could still maintain a degree of freedom in a partnership with UVMHN. “As a former member of the Porter community, we have a culture there that’s pretty special, and it sounds like that’s something we’re going to be able to maintain,â€? she said. “To me, it sounds like we get to continue to do the things we do well, and that patients who can’t be treated here for one reason or another get care that seems more proximate and more closely related‌ and they will be able to come home faster.â€? PMC has scheduled an open community forum on affiliation for Wednesday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. at the Middlebury Regional EMS headquarters at 55 Collins Drive. All area residents are encouraged to attend. Reporter John Flowers is at johnf@addisonindependent.com.
(Continued from Page 1A) well representatives — will spend the coming months determining how the six communities’ schools could be overseen by one board and financed through a single budget. If the committee’s work results in a consolidation proposal, if would be put to voters before next July 1, the date on which some major financial incentives for unifying districts expire, noted ARSU Superintendent Ron Ryan. The new district could qualify for, among other things, property tax discounts during a four-year transition to unification. Those would amount to 8 cents in year one, 6 in year two, 4 in year three, and 2 in year four from the tax rates the district otherwise adopts. Orwell voters have already defeated school unification proposals twice, first on April 12 (by a tally of 211 to 121), and then on June 21, by a count of 204 to 166. Orwell was the only community among the six to reject unification. And under terms of the “accelerated merger� process through Vermont’s Act 46, all six towns needed to endorse the measure in order for unification to proceed. This time around, according to Ryan, the committee, formed on Aug. 10, would have the latitude to consider whether participation of the town of Orwell or any other town in the district is necessary — or merely “advisable� — in allowing the new Slate Valley Unified Union School District to be formed. If Orwell’’s participation is not considered essential by the com-
2016
presents the
Garden Game The dry spell is over & we are beginning to see new veggies coming in! Still there are plenty more categories waiting for your entries!
Ed Blechner from Addison brought in our first onion measuring an impressive 13� around. He found that moving it to the better soil in his upper garden was a good decision. Three more categories were filled with entries from Debbie Bagley of Salisbury. She brought us a Keystone Giant Pepper sizing in at 14.25�x 16.25�, an 18.5� Cauliflower and a huge Goldrush Summer Squash. All three entries have a good shot at holding the lead in their categories.
Porter
Joshua Serman from Bristol brought in a sizeable Zucchini measuring 25� long and 14.5� around – not quite big enough to take our frontrunner spot.He says although they are pretty seedy at his size – they’re good for bread.
Another wide open category was filled with this big head of Cabbage brought in by Karl Neuse from Middlebury. He attributes its size to his wife’s good seeds being grown in a raised garden bed.
Meeting last weeks challenge Barb Saunders from Bristol takes the lead from Gary Miller in our tomato category with this Heritage Variety Tomato measuring 17� in diameter! Barb says its success is due to the compost she added.
Let’s fill these empty categories! CATEGORIES s "EETS (circumference)
s 0OTATO (length x circumference)
Sarah Tetzlaff & Naria Audet, Orwell - 18�
s "ROCCOLI (diameter)
s 0EPPER (circumference
x circumference)
Debbie Bagley, Salisbury - 14.25�x16.25
Kelley Mills, Pittsford - 12�
s 0UMPKIN (circumference x circumference)
s #ABBAGE (circumference)
s 2ADISH (circumference)
Karl Neuse, Middlebury - 27.25�
David Quenneville, Whiting - 10.25�
s #ANTALOUPE (circumference)
s 2UTABAGA (circumference)
s #ARROT (length x circumference)
s 3UMMER 3QUASH (length x circumference)
Gary Miller, Middlebury - 15.5�x3.75�
s #AULImOWER (diameter)
Debbie Bagley, Salisbury - 25�x16.25�
s 3UNmOWER (diameter)
Debbie Bagley, Salisbury - 18.5�
s #UCUMBER (length x circumference)
Denise Gibeault, Shoreham - 11�x8�
s %GGPLANT (circumference x circumference) s 'REEN "EAN (length)
s 4OMATO (circumference)
Barb Saunders, Bristol - 17�
s 4URNIP (circumference) s :UCCHINI (length x circumference)
Mohan Family, Forest Dale - 26�x24�
s /NION (circumference) Ed Blechner, Addison - 13�
GARDEN GAME RULES %NTRIES MUST BE HOME GROWN IN THE GREATER !DDISON #OUNTY AREA s /NLY PRODUCE BROUGHT TO THE !DDISON )NDEPENDENT OFlCE BETWEEN -ON &RI AM PM WILL BE ELIGIBLE s 7EEKLY FRONT RUNNERS WILL BE LISTED IN THE h'ARDEN 'AMEv COLUMN UNTIL ANOTHER CONTESTANT PROVIDES A LARGER SAMPLE OF THAT PRODUCE CATEGORY 4HE LARGEST ENTRIES AS OF 4HURSDAY NOON DEADLINE WILL BE THE FRONT RUNNERS LISTED IN THAT -ONDAY S EDITION s /NE WINNER PER CATEGORY s *UDGE HAS lNAL WORD s &IRST PLACE WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT SIGN OF lRST FROST
ADDISON COUNTY
INDEPENDENT
VERMONT’S TWICE-WEEKLY NEWSPAPER Middlebury, VT 05753 • (802) 388-4944 • www.AddisonIndependent.com
PAGE 12A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
Pedal power THE ADDISON COUNTY Fair and Field Days Pedal Tractor Pull was held in the show tent last Thursday morning. The event is just like the adult version with a tractor hitched up to a weight sled. The difference is that in the pedal version all the power comes from little legs. Pictured are, clockwise from top left, Laci Almeda, 6, of Addison; Alice Charron, 5, of Castleton; Timothy Nop, 7, of Middlebury; Jackson Butterfield, 5, of Middlebury; and Colton Butler, 5, of Bridport.
OM
AWOR K
S
Independent photos/Trent Campbell
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PAGE 14A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
2016 Field Days Results Caber toss NEW HAVEN — The results of the men’s caber toss are as follows. Ages 11-17: 1. Jivan Galpes, Concord, Mass.; 2. Jason Feil-Sharp, Brooklyn, N.Y.; 3. Lydia Deppman, Cornwall.
Dairy conformation
“LIKE” to WIN our Facebook Page for a chance to WIN a $10 giftcard from
Middlebury Farm & Garden.
If we missed you at Field Days there’s still time to get to know and LIKE us. Whether you want a 2nd chance to WIN, or are visiting for the 1st time, search Facebook for our “Addison County Solid Waste Management District” page.
If you’d LIKE TO WIN, we’d appreciate your THUMBS UP! Thanks!
Four winners will be drawn at random between August 18th – 25th and will be notified via Facebook.
Addison County Solid Waste Management District 1223 Route 7 South, Middlebury, VT 05753 (802) 388-2333 • www.AddisonCountyRecycles.org
NEW HAVEN — The following are the results in the 4-H Dairy Conformation competition held on Aug. 9. SPRING CALF Brown Swiss: 1. Shelburne Cartel Elizabeth, Riley Marchand; 2. Shelburne Eeyore Latte, Taylor Marchand; 3. Perry Brook Carter Leapperson-ET, Willow Fiske. Holstein: 1. Piper, Isabelle Gilley; 2. Jillian Archrival AdrielET, Ashton Thomas; 3. Perrybrook Trenton Trigger, Addison Hubbel; 4. Champlainside Gillespy Brie, Kristina Howlett; 5. Maille Bolt Haley, Benjamin Maille; 6. Plouffe Salvino Sapphire, Emma Oliver; 7. Maille Disguise Red Adeleni-Red, Benjamin Maille; 8. Kettletop Chase Amy, Chelsea Marcoux. Jersey: 1. Premiere Luna Lulu, Ruby Hubbell; 2. Acer N-P Hershey, Liz Calzini; 3. Sugarbush VT Little Apple, Morgan White; 4. Annie, McKenna Phillips; 5. Norah, Lily Lewis; 6. Button, Isabelle Gilley. Milking shorthorn: 1. Green Acres R R Zeus Future, Jordan Bertrand. WINTER CALF Ayrshire: 1. Honor Roll Showstar Dessa, Michael Plouffe; 2. Scapeland Knockout Devin, Elizabeth Crawford. Brown Swiss: 1. Shelburne Cartel Yvette, Ellie Ramirez-Richer; 2. Fitzallan Durham Willow, Audrey Huston; 3. Cher-Mi Kannon Profit, Ginny Patz; 4. Allandra Brookings Tierney Lucy, Evan Rakowski; 5. Allandra Gib Maisie, Katy Waterman; 6. Galaxy, Rosa Kehoe; 7. Allandra H Thunder Kalinda, Jonathan Flores-Torres. Holstein: 1. StJ-PV Heztry BethET, Holly Laurie; 2. Four-Hills Corv Oprah, Sarah Hill; 3. Topnotch Snowy Britt, Benjamin Boutin; 4. Border Acres PBJ, Erin Gebo; 5. Grand Hill Impression Tidings, Ethan Bessette; 6. Gem, Brailey Livingston; 7. Candy Cane, Mason Livingston; 8. Border Acres Oakley, Bethany Orvis; 9. Super Leche the 4th, Ethan Bessette; 10. Railview Dairy Azalea, Karissa Livingston; 11. Plouffe Wolfgang Willow, Michael Plouffe. Jersey: 1. Kellogg Bay Excitation Gangsta-ET, Abigail Reen; 2. Tierneys Colton Trinket, Andrew Lester; 3. Weybridge Farms Visionary Daisy, Courtney Curler; 4. Plouffe Badger Daisy, Michael Plouffe. FALL CALF Ayshire: 1. Four-Hills Gibbs DeeET, Sarah Hill; 2. Scapeland Wingnut Brianna, Ben Crawford. Brown Swiss: 1. Iroquois Acres Austin Chan, Colin Foster; 2. Shelburne Jaffer Eva, Riley Marchand; 3. Allandra H Thunder Seraphina, Addy Parsons; 4. Perry Brook Durham MoofasaET, Julianna Williams; 5. Perry Brook Victor Whistler, Alexandra Williams; 6. Allandra H Thunder Savana, Matthew Ouellette. Holstein: 1. Louanna, Abigail Reen; 2. Compagna Sobieski Teddy, Sierra Phillips; 3. Border Acres Patty, Dylan Mason. Jersey: 1. Four-Hills Amedo Bristol-ET, Sarah Hill; 2. TBR Acres Goose Baby, Rachael Burt. SUMMER YEARLING Ayrshire: 1. Farr Power Calypso, Aislynn Farr.
Brown Swiss: 1. Shelburne Aleution Janie, Ellie Bissell; 2. CIE Allandra H Thunder Wilhemina, Matthew Ouelette. Holstein: 1. SU-PV Addiction Bently-ET, Emee Lourie; 2. Kettletop Myrle Courtney, Jonathan McKeighan; 3. Deer Valley Milkyway, Brianna VanderWey; 4. Deer Valley Kenzie, Raymond VanderWey. Jersey: 1. Haylie, Katy Waterman; 2. Opportunity Teabow Venue, Ginny Patz; 3. Kay Kowz Buttercrunch, Renee Bolduc; 4. Magnolia, Audrey Huston; 5. Perry Brook Machete Sanibel, Bailey Farrell; 6. Lourie Renegade Annie, Harley Lourie. SPRING YEARLING Holstein: 1. Plouffe Escabo April, Michael Plouffe; 2. Border Acres Chester, Rylee Mae Mason. Jersey: 1. Blue Spruce Premier Reece, Alexis Farr; 2. Weybridge Farms Premier Daliah, Courtney Curler; 3. Acer Bouquet, Casey Calzini; 4. Delila, Isabelle Wilbur; 5. Plouffe Sprinkles, Michael Plouffe. WINTER YEARLING Brown Swiss: 1. Shelburne Next Up Evelina, Ellie Ramirez-Richer. Guernsey: 1. Toolite Shastos L Azalea, Abigail Armstrong.
Holstein: 1. Champlainside Destry Bliss, Kristina Howlett; 2. Maille Sajac Trixie, Benjamin Maille; 3. For-Clifs Chelios Summit, Benjamin Boutin; 4. Deer Valley Amy, Shawnna VanderWey. Jersey: 1. Menda Tequila Luna, Jordan Hubbell. FOUR-YEAR-OLDS Holstein: 1. Border Acres Trinity, Bethany Orvis. UNDER FIVE YEARS OLD Ayrshire dry cow: 1. Blue Spruce Burdette CoCo, Aislynn Farr. Holstein dry cow: 1. Midas-Touch Cassidy-Red-ET, Kristina Howlett. Milking shorthorn dry cow: 1. Lewisholm Summer Winter-EXP, Abigail Armstrong. SENIOR CHAMPIONS Ayrshire: Champion, Blue Spruce Burdett CoCo, Aislynn Farr. Brown swiss: Champion, Allandra Tanbark Suzy, Addy Parsons; reserve champion, CIE Allandra B Wilma, Matthew Ouellette. Holstein: Champion, Champlainside Destry Bliss, Kristina Howlett; reserve champion, Border Acres Trinity, Bethany Orvis. Jersey: Champion, Menda Tequila Luna, Jordan Hubbell.
Kathy Peck-Traverse Memorial Award, Best Ayrshire Bred and Owned by Exhibitor: Aislynn Farr. Dam and Daughter: Aislynn Farr. Produce of Dam: Benjamin Maille. Member’s Herd: Kristina Howlett. Club Herd: Mt. Independence.
Fitting and showmanship NEW HAVEN — The following are the results of the 4-H Dairy Fitting and Showmanship competition on Aug. 11. Junior division, 11 years old: 1. Sarah Hill, New Haven Dairy; 2. Michael Plouffe, Mountain View; 3. Alexandra Williams, Mt. Independence; 4. Ashton Thomas, Mt. Independence. Junior division, 10 years old: 1. Elisabeth Crawford, Mt. Independence; 2. Morgan White, Mt. Independence; 3. Andrew Lester, New Haven Dairy. Junior division, 9 years old: 1. Taylor Marchand, Shelburne Explorers; 2. Casey Calzini, Whiting Coverleaves; 3. Evan Rakowski, Weybridge Willing Workers; 4. Emma Oliver, Mountain View; 5. Brailey Livingston, New Haven Dairy.
Scythes at the ready COMPETITORS IN THE 38th annual hand mowing contest at the Addison County Fair and Field Days get last-minute instructions before the start of the Aug. 11 competition. The founder of the competition, Lucien Paquette, stands with a yellow hat and long gray trousers in the center of the group ready to take part in the 80-and-older division. Photo by Kate Conradt
Holstein: 1. Border Acres Cassidy, Bethany Orvis; 2. Border Acres Jaci Prince, Kelsey Cram. FALL YEARING Brown Swiss: 1. Shelburne Next Up Tiki, Lena Ashooh; 2. Shelburne Next Up Twister, Ellie Bissell; 3. Elmvue Plaintiff Gerda, Abigail Armstrong. Holstein: 1. Deer Valley Penelope, Shawnna VanderWey. Jersey: 1. Plouffe Salvadore Luna, Michael Plouffe. JUNIOR CHAMPIONS Ayrshire: Champion, Four-Hills Gibbs Dee-ET, Sarah Hill; reserve champion, Honor Roll Showstar Dessa, Michael Plouffe. Brown Swiss: Champion, Fitzallan Durham Willow, Audrey Huston; reserve champion, Iroquois Acres Austin Chan, Colin Foster. Holstein: Champion, StJ-PV Heztry Beth-ET, Holly Lourie; reserve champion, Four-Hills Corv Oprah, Sarah Hill. Jersey: Champion, Kellogg Bay Excitation Gangsta-ET, Abigail Reen; reserve champion, Tierney’s Colton Trinket, Andrew Lester. TWO-YEAR-OLDS Brown Swiss: 1. Allandra Tanbark Suzy, Addy Parsons; 2. CIE Allandra B Wilma, Benjamin Maille.
GRAND CHAMPIONS Ayrshire: Champion, Blue Spruce Burdett CoCo, Aislynn Farr; reserve champion, Four-Hills Gibbs Dee-ET, Sarah Hill. Brown swiss: Champion, Allandra Tanbark Suzy, Addy Parsons; reserve champion, CIE Allandra B Wilma, Matthew Ouellette. Holstein: Champion, Champlainside Destry Bliss, Kristina Howlett; reserve champion, Border Acres Trinity, Bethany Orvis. Jersey: Champion, Menda Tequila Luna, Jordan Hubbell; reserve champion, Kellogg Bay Excitation Gangsta-ET, Abigail Reen. Milking shorthorn: Champion, Green Acres R R Zeus Future, Jordan Bertrand. AWARDS Joyce Munger Award, Best Spring Calf of Show: Shelburne Cartel Elizabeth Riley Marchand. Plouffe Award, Best Winter Calf of Show: Kellogg Bay Excitation Gangsta-ET, Abigail Reen. Steve Pope Award, Best Fall Calf of Show: Four Hills Gibbs Dee-ET, Sarah Hill. Perry Brook Farm Award, Best Summer Yearling of Show: StJ-PV Addiction Bently-ET, Emee Lourie. Brisson’s Daona Farm Award, Best Spring Yearling of Show: Blue Spruce Premier Reece, Alexis Farr. Champlainside Farm Award, Best Winter Yearling of Show: Ellie Ramirez-Richer. Audet’s Blue Spruce Farm Award, Best Fall Yearling of Show: Shelburne Next Up Tiki, Lena Ashooh. Arbutusland Farm Award, Best Two-year-old of Show: Menda Tequila Luna, Jordan Hubbell. Joyce & Frances Haggarty Award, Supreme Champion of All Breeds, Menda Tequila Luna, Jordan Hubbell. GROUP CLASSES Reginald Morse Award, Best Animal Bred by Exhibitor: Benjamin Maille.
Novice class A, 8 years old: 1. Ruby Hubbell, Mt. Independence; 2. Lia Calzini, Whiting Cloverleaves. Novice class B, 9-12 years old: 1. Colin Foster, New Haven Dairy; 2. Willow Fiske, Mt. Independence; 3. Chelsea Marcoux, Whiting Cloverleaves; 4. Mason Livingston, New Haven Dairy; 5. Jordan Bertrand, Whiting Cloverleaves; 6. Dylan Mason, New Haven Dairy; 7. Isabella Wilbur, Mt. Independence. Novice senior class: 1. Erin Gebo, New Haven Dairy; 2. Jonathan McKeighan, Whiting Cloverleaves; 3. Lily Lewis, Mountain View. Intermediate division, 12 years old: 1. Katy Waterman, Weybridge Willing Workers; 2. Lena Ashooh, Shelburne Explorers; 3. Ellie Ramirez-Richer, Shelburne Explorers; 4. Benjamin Boutin, Mt. Independence; 5. Riley Marchand, Shelburne Explorers; 6. Abigail Reen, New Haven Dairy; 7. Karissa Livingston, New Haven Dairy; 8. Isabelle Gilley, New Haven Dairy; 9. Courtney Curler, Mountain View; 10. Ethan Bessette, Mt. Independence; 11. Bailey Farrell, Mt. Independence. Intermediate division, 13 years old: 1. Ellie Bissell, Shelburne Explorers; 2. Alexis Farr, Mt. Independence; 3. Julianna Williams, Mt. Independence; 4. Rylee-Mae Mason, New Haven Dairy; 5. McKenna Phillips, Mountain View; 6. Rosa Kehoe, Mountain View; 7. Harley Lourie, Mountain View; 8. Addison Hubbell, Mt. Independence. Intermediate division, 14 year old: 1. Ben Crawford, Mt. Independence; 2. Audrey Huston, Weybridge Willing Workers; 3. Holly Lourie, Mountain View; 4. Ginny Patz, New Haven Dairy; 5. Aislynn Farr, Mt. Independence; 6. Jonathan FloresTorres, Mountain View; 7. Brianna VanderWey, Mountain View. Senior division, 15 years old: 1. Addy Parsons, Weybridge Willing Workers; 2. Abigail Armstrong, Rupert Mettowee Valley; 3. Renee Bolduc, New Haven Dairy; 4. Matthew Ouellette, Weybridge Willing Workers; 5. Emee Lourie, Mountain View.
Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 15A
2016 Field Days Results Senior division, 16 years old: 1. Bethany Orvis, New Haven Dairy; 2. Kelsey Cram, New Haven Dairy; 3. Sierra Phillips, Mountain View; 4. Raymond VanderWey, Mountain View. Senior division, 17 years old and older: 1. Benjamin Maille, Independent; 2. Jordan Hubbell, Mt. Independence; 3. Shawnna VanderWey, Mountain View; 4. Rachael Burt, Mountain View; 5. Kristina Howlett, Mt. Independence. AWARDS Milk and Honey Genetics Award, Junior Showman Champion: Sarah Hill; reserve champion, Elisabeth Crawford. Eric Pope Award, Novice A Showman Champion: Ruby Hubbell. Dan Huestis Memorial Award, Novice B Showman Champion: Colin Foster. Tristan Quinn Memorial Award Best Intermediate Showman: Champion, Ben Crawford; reserve champion, Audrey Huston. Uncle George Highter Award Senior Showmanship: Champion Addison County, Bethany Orvis; Overall Champion, Benjamin Maille.
Hand mowing NEW HAVEN — The following are the results of the hand mowing competition. 0-16 YOUTH 1. Jasper Shattuck, 97.58; 2. Julian Schmitt, 83.16; 3. Aven Baughman, 75.94. 17-59 WOMEN 1. Michaela Stickney, 96.94; 2. Jan Beayon-Phelps, 91; 3. Kerianne Severy, 88.13; 4. Jen Roberts, 84.98; 5. Liz Perkins, 82.85; Susan Jeffries, 80.09. 17-59 MEN 1. Alfonso Diaz, 96.39; 2. Ian Maas, 76.61; 3. Finn Yarbrough, 72.66; 4. Paul Schwartzkopf, 71.41; 5. Horst Hartlieb, 64.24; 6. Judd Markowski, 62.38; 7. Nate Severy, 61.21; 8. Brian Goodro, 56.62; 9. John Schmitt, 53.11. 60-79 SENIOR WOMEN 1. Susan Davis, 91.96; 2. Robin Hopps, 83.05; 3. Alice Cheney, 79.57.
60-79 SENIOR MEN 1. Marc Shattuck, 92.9; 2. Don Elder, 85.13; 3. Jim Merrigan, 82.33; 4. Charlie Thompson, 72.26; 5. Mike Canty, 71.99. Roger Shattuck Memorial (80PLUS) 1. Jim Whitney, 92.36; 2. Lucien Paquette, 79.8; 3. Jeffrey Freeman, 77.18; 4. Eldon Sherwin, 60.99. OPEN 1. Alfonso Diaz, 93.12; 2. Finn Yarbrough, 82.58; 3. Marc Shattuck, 79.98; 4. Paul Schwartzkopf, 76.55; 5. Nate Severy, 68.85; 6. Don Elder, 68.54; 7. Judd Markowski, 67.92; 8. Jasper Shattuck, 66.87; 9. Jen Roberts, 66.33; 10. Michaela Stickney, 65.26; 11. Jim Whitney, 65.18; 12. Mike Canty, 64.03; 13. Brian Goodro, 63.94; 14. Joseph Severy, 63.47; 15. John Schmitt, 60.36; 16. Kerianne Severy, 59.77; 17. Liz Perkins, 59.77; 18. Charlie Thompson, 57.92; 19. Julian Schmitt, 57.03; 20. Jeffrey Freeman, 55.61.
Horse shows NEW HAVEN — The following were recognized in the horse shows. MONDAY 4-H beginner horse: Champion, Madeline DeGraff, Rosie; reserve champion, Tucker Kennett, Rin Tin Tin; Amelia Kennett, Stuntman Hall. 4-H advanced beginner pony: Champion, Shyanne Wedge, Hollywood Strutter. 4-H advanced beginner horse: Champion, Ryley Dubois, Rosie; reserve champion, Madi Shepard, I Can Do Magic. Open beginner pony: Champion, Emma Reen, Little League; reserve champion, Rylee Layn, Sparkle The Moonlight; second reserve champion, Samantha Hallock, Aspen. Open beginner horse: Champion, Shelby Stevers, Enchanted; reserve champion, Ayden Larocque, Blondy’s Version; second reserve champion, Joleigh Bradford, My Heartz Blazin.
Open advanced beginner pony: Champion, Isabelle Gallivan, Stazino El Hamal; reserve champion, Isabella Wilbur, Mr. B; second reserve champion, Kaitlin Taylor, Raven. Open advanced beginner horse: Champion, Chloe Babb, Some Kinda Pleasure; reserve champion, Trista Santor, Heavens Lost Property. Leadline: Champion, Sadie Shepard, Boston Chocolate Chip; reserve champion, Binti Bangoura, Little League; second reserve champion, Sage Stevers, Ramona. Adult walk/trot: Champion, Shannon Hallock, A New Kind of Pleasure; reserve champion, Eve Shepard, Jones; second reserve champion, Brenda Currier, A Grumpy Old Man. Championship fitting, grooming and showmanship beginner: Champion, Madeline DeGraff, Rosie; reserve champion, Ayden Larocque, Blondy’s Version; second reserve champion, Tucker Kennett, Rin Tin Tin. Championship fitting, grooming and showmanship advanced beginner: Champion, Madi Shepard, I Can Do Magic; reserve champion, Ryley Dubois, Rosie; second reserve champion, Katilin Taylor, Raven. TUESDAY 4-H beginner: Champion Tucker Kennett, Lucky; reserve champion, Amelia Kennett, Southwest Cheyenne. 4-H advanced beginner: Champion Shyanne Wedge, Hollywood Strutter. 4-H senior: Champion Courtney Bronson, Sexy N She Knows It; reserve champion, Lauren Hodsen, Im Good For Something. Open beginner: Champion, Joleigh Bradford, Mr. Gold Connection; reserve champion, Ayden Larocque, Blondy’s Version; second reserve champion, Faith Stearns, Ima Painted Titan. Open advanced beginner: Champion, Chloe Babb, Some Kinda Pleasure; reserve champion, Bethany Breen, Connaugre; second reserve champion, Kaitlin Taylor, Raven. Open Junior: Emily Hathaway, Leo’s Impressive Cowboy.
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PAGE 16A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
2016 Field Days Results Manning, Tsashaa Bay; second reserve champion, Hannah Forbes, Scooby Doo. Adults walk/trot: Champion, Michelle Willard, Moon; reserve champion, Chasity Panton, Moon. Leadline: Wyatt Fallon, Mr. Gold Connection; reserve champion, Lydia Tupper, Spirit. Championship fitting, grooming and showmanship beginner and advanced beginner: Champion, Chloe Babb, Some Kinda Pleasure; reserve champion, Joleigh Bradford, My Heartz Blazing; second reserve champion, Kaitlin Taylor, Raven. Championship fitting, grooming and showmanship junior and senior: Champion, Courtney Bronson, Sexy N She Knows It; reserve champion, Amber Forrest-Summer, Zippa Dirty Bar; second reserve champion, Lauren Hodsen, Im Good For Something. Adult walk/trot/canter: Champion, Chaylen Lemieux, Smokin Lemieux; reserve champion, Haley Paquette, Cody Custard Breeze; second reserve champion, Ashley Audet, One Hot Bob. WEDNESDAY Adult: Champion, Haley Paquette, My Heartz Blazing; reserve champion, Chaylen Lemieux, Smokin Hick; second reserve champion, Anna Coyle, Given Another Chance. 4-H junior: Champion, Sydney Minnerly, Sweet Talk; reserve champion, Charlotte Willis, Despereaux; second reserve champion, Sadie James, Little League.
4-H senior: Champion, Brooklyn Currier, Caledonia Careway; reserve champion, Eliza Kurth, Bold Snap; second reserve champion, Alexis Marnellos, I’m An Awesome Tease. Open junior: Champion, Phoebe Smith, Phantom; reserve champion, Emily Hathaway, Leo’s Impressive Lowboy; second reserve champion, Olivia Audet, EH Starstruck. Open senior: Champion, Kristina Jochum, One Hot Bob; reserve champion, Lily Smith, Dirty Harry; second reserve champion, Brooke Perlee, Malmore Mythos. Championship fitting, grooming and showmanship junior and senior: Champion, Kristina Jochum, One Hot Bob; reserve champion, Brooklyn Currier, Caledonia Careway; second reserve champion, Kimberly Gibson, Disney Special Feature. THURSDAY Open-in-hand championship: Champion, PJ Eagan, Only Passing Through; reserve champion, Katie Mayer, Equinox Shangrila; second reserve champion, Chaylen Lemieux, Smokin Hick. Equitation championship: Champion, Courtney Bronson, Soxy Investment; reserve champion, Eliza Kurth, Bold Snap; second reserve champion, Lexi Rosen, Promise’s Surprise Storm. Adult equitation championship: Champion, Hailey Perlee, Johannesburg; reserve champion, Krista Oldroyd, Shoreham Virginia; second reserve champion, Hayley Borah, Absolutely Blue. English pleasure championship: Champion, Hayley Borah, Absolutely
Blue; reserve champion, Heiley Perlee, Johannesburg; second reserve champion, Ashley Audet, Sir Paterick Rigal. Western pleasure championship: Champion, Chaylen Lemieux, Smokin Hick; reserve champion, Courtney Bronson, Soxy Investment; second reserve champion, Ashley Audet, Blondie’s Version. Addison County pleasure — Western: Champion, Courtney Bronson, Soxy Investment; reserve champion, Ashley Audet, Blondie’s Version. Addison County pleasure — English: Champion, Hayley Borah, Absolutely Blue; reserve champion, Hailey Perlee, Johannesburg; second reserve champion, Eliza Kurth, Bold Snap. TWO-DAY HIGH POINT CHAMPIONS Open advanced beginner: Chloe Babb, Some Kind of Pleasure. 4-H advanced beginner: Shyanne Wedge, Hollywood Strutter. Open beginner: Ahyden Larocque, Blondy’s Version. Open junior: Emily Hathaway, Leo’s Impressive Cowboy. 4-H senior: Courtney Bronson, Sexy N She Knows It. Open senior: Amber ForrestSumner, Zippa Dirty Bar.
Karaoke results NEW HAVEN — The results of the Karaoke Contest are as follows. Children under 6: No entries. Youth 7-14 years: Octavia Devine,
Show smile MALLORY BINGHAM OF Weybridge shows off her winning smile while showing a calf at the PeeWee Dairy Show at Field Days last Friday. Independent photo/Andrea Warren
Ferrisburgh. Adult 15+ years: Cheryl FoxOdell, Middlebury.
Ox pull NEW HAVEN — The following are the results of the ox pull. 2,000 CLASS 1. Scott Spencer, Orwell; 2. Scott Spencer, Orwell; 3. Brian Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 4. Jessica Whitney, Chelsea; 5. Scott Spencer, Orwell; 6.
Gary Gaylord, Rensselaer Falls, N.Y. 2,400 CLASS 1. Tim Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 2. Tim Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 3. Steve Chamberlain, S. Pomfret; 4. Nick Stone, Barnard; 5. Todd Burrell, Woodstock; 6. Scott Spencer, Orwell. 2,800 CLASS 1. Brian Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 2. Brian Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 3. Mark Whitney, Chelsea; 4. Tim Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 5. Steve Chamberlain, S. Pomfret; 6. Nick Stone, Barnard.
3,200 CLASS 1. Brian Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 2. Gary Gaylord, Rensselaer Falls, N.Y.; 3. Steve Chamberlain, S. Pomfret; 4. Nick Stone, Barnard; 5. Steve Chamberlain, S. Pomfret; 6. Brian Patten, Springfield, N.H. FREE-FOR-ALL 1. Brian Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 2. Andy George, Fairlee; 3. Tim Patten, Springfield, N.H.; 4. Nick Stone, Barnard; 5. Ed Allen, Reading; 6. Andy George, Fairlee.
Pony pulls NEW HAVEN — The following were recognized in the pony pulls at the Addison County Fair and Field Days. PONY PULLS 1,800 class: 1. Karen and Robert Chamberlain, Woodstock; 2. Johnson and Tracy, Barnard; 3. Dean Gonyaw, Glover; 4. Palmer and Hewes, Benson. 2,200 class: 1. Tracy and Johnson, Barnard; 2. Richard Tanner, Lyndonville; 3. Randall and Sons, Glover; 4. Durand and Tracy, Barnard; 5. Palmer and Hewes, Benson; Tracy and Spaulding, Barnard. Free-for-all class: 1. Gould and Son, West Burke; 2. Lazy Acres, Glover; 3. Johnson and Tracy, Barnard; 4. Tracy and Spaulding, Barnard.
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MONUMENT FARMS DAIRY Salutes all the exhibitors at Field Days! Thank you for keeping Agriculture and Dairy strong in Vermont. Way To Go, Everyone!! Monument Farms Dairy • 2107 James Rd • Weybridge, VT • 545-2119
Skillet toss NEW HAVEN — The following are the results of the ladies’ cast iron skillet toss. Ages 5-10: 1. Ava Mullin, Addison; 2. Lila Deavila, Newton, Mass.; 3. Helen Curran, Whiting; 4. Sarah Duplissis, Shoreham. Ages 11-17: 1. Lillian Curran, Cornwall; 2. Livia Bernhardt, Leicester; 3. Amelia Payne, North Ferrisburg. Ages 18 and older: 1. Rose Curran, Whiting; 2. Donna Monroe, Bel Air, Md.; 3. Hannah Sessions, Leicester. Editor’s Note: See more results in next week’s edition!
7-9PM
Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 17A
Addison County
Farm Health and Safety
Lanphears run top dairy farm Lamoille County operation produces high-quality milk By LISA HALVORSEN Freelance Agricultural Journalist, UVM Extension HYDE PARK — The Lanphear Family Farm, a 530cow Holstein dairy in Hyde Park, has been named the 2016 Vermont Dairy Farm of the Year. The award is presented annually by University of Vermont Extension and the Vermont Dairy Industry Association in cooperation with the New England Green Pastures Program to an exemplary Vermont dairy farm.
This farm, owned by Kirk and Katrina Lanphear, was recognized for its well-managed herd, high-quality milk production, sound management practices and strong work ethics. The couple bought the farm in 2007 from Kirk’s parents, Russell and Judy Lanphear, after working in partnership with them for several years. Today they milk 440 cows in a double-16 herringbone parlor twice daily. Their rolling herd average is 22,000 pounds with 3.85 percent butterfat and 3.11 percent protein. They ship to the St. Albans Cooperative and have won numerous awards for their high quality milk production including (See Dairy Farm of the Year, Page 18A)
THE LANPHEAR FAMILY Farm in Hyde Park was named the 2016 Vermont Dairy Farm of the Year by UVM Extension and the Vermont Dairy Industry Association. Shown from left are, back row: Lanphear family members Keith, Kirk, Katrina, Judy, Russ, Calvin and Pat; and front row: Lucas, Chelsea and Carrie Lanphear; and Whitney Hart (holding Raelyn) and Skylar Poleio. Photo by Peggy Manahan/UVM Extension
Save your back: lift carefully By GEORGE COOK Everyone reading this — from those who milk cows and muck out the barns to those who cut hay and spread manure — has probably experienced back pain, especially low back pain, likely the most common ailment anywhere. In fact, you’ll find a large percentage of farm worker’s compensation claims stem from back issues. Back pain is of particular interest on the farm, where farmers and farm workers must take particular care in ensuring good back health. Chronic pain or difficulty moving, standing, bending, walking and reaching are all common symptoms. Just this spring, my constant bending, squatting, lifting and picking up armfuls of firewood during sugaring season initiated chronic low back pain. Hmm ‌ sure, some of it may be from getting older, but we’ve all been there, no matter our age. Improper lifting techniques, either now or in the past, may very well have caused injury to your back or increased your chances today for these issues. With warmer weather upon us, the list of chores in front of us will surely add to the likelihood of back pain. So what should be done to prevent this sort of chronic irritation? Several key things come to mind from various sources. Here are some pointers: When possible, prior to beginning your work or exercise, loosen up a bit. Warm up that back and those legs and arms before your work detail. There’s a reason athletes do this all the time. When was the last time you did? Stretch those muscles that you will be using. Limber up. Remember those exercises we used to do before gym class? Again, there was a practical reason for doing those. Plan ahead. Do you need help to get the job done? You don’t have to do everything yourself. Lifting stuff? Can you handle that amount of weight, or should you get someone to assist? Locate items to be moved so that you minimize the travel necessary. Check your pathway. Is it clear, or will five minutes of cleaning and prepping save you effort? (See Back pain, Page 19A)
ATTENTION FARMERS
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PAGE 18A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
Addison County
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JEFF CARTER, A UVM Extension agronomist based in Middlebury and president of the Vermont Association of Agricultural Agents, congratulates Wendy Sorrell, UVM Extension livestock educator, after she receives her Distinguished Service Award, July 27, at the National Association of County Agricultural Agents annual meeting in Arkansas.
4-H educator earns national ag agents award “We Care” for your land and animals 88 Seymour St., Middlebury 388-7000 or 800-639-7051 email: bourbush@together.net
BURLINGTON — Wendy Sorrell, the University of Vermont Extension 4-H livestock educator, is the Vermont recipient of the 2016 Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA). Sorrell received the award on July 27 at a special banquet at the NACAA’s annual meeting and professional improvement conference in Little Rock, Ark. It was presented to her by Cynthia Gregg, president of NACAA. The award recognizes members with 10 or more years of outstanding service to Cooperative Extension for their professional excellence, effective programming and achievements including contri-
butions to their state agricultural agents’ association. Recipients are nominated by their state association membership and endorsed by their Extension director. As the state 4-H livestock educator for the past 17 years, Sorrell works with state 4-H dairy, horse, sheep, working steer and poultry program committees to organize and facilitate more than 30 statewide events each year including the 4-H Sheep Camp, Dairy Challenge, horse hippology contests and three working steer shows, among others. She served on the Vermont State 4-H Cabinet and the Chittenden County 4-H Foundation for several years and helped facilitate the Japanese/4-H Exchange for four
years with former state 4-H director Mary Carlson. In VAAA Sorrell has held the positions of vice president, secretary/ treasurer, 4-H and Youth Committee state chair and Scholarships Committee chair. In addition, she was a member of the first futuring committee that helped NACAA move forward as an organization in 2006. Sorrell is a former 4-H’er who was a member of the Champlain Champions 4-H Club for 10 years. She later established the Island Karate 4-H Club and served as its adult leader for three years. In 1985 she was selected as Vermont’s International 4-H Youth Exchange delegate and lived with host families in the United Kingdom for six months.
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(Continued from Page 17A) the co-op’s annual quality recognition award for the past 23 consecutive years. Unlike most Vermont farms, they do not raise their own replacements, a decision that saves them money on labor, housing, herd health and related costs of raising heifers. It also fits their philosophy of manag-
ing the farm economically and efficiently while keeping family first and foremost. All four of their children — Chelsea, 22; Carrie, 19; Lucas, 18; and Keith, 15 — have been involved in the farm operation with the boys helping out on a daily basis with the cows, crops, equipment maintenance and other tasks to learn ev-
erything they can about managing the farm. They, along with Skylar Poleio, a 10-year employee who the Lanphears consider a son, have expressed interest in taking over the farm in the future. The farmers grow all their own forages with 350 acres of corn, yielding an average of 22 to 25 tons per acre of silage; 150 acres of alfalfa/clover, yielding 10 tons per acre; and 200 acres of grass, producing seven to 10 tons. Five years ago they switched from conventional corn to BMR varieties (brown midrib corn, a new corn silage) to grow a higheryield, higher-quality forage for their cows’ ration that contains more starch and digestible neutral detergent fiber. They also incorporated an alfalfa/grass mix into their feeding program last year. The result has been improved herd health, feed-cost savings and higher milk production. Their success also can be attributed to good conservation practices. All of their fields are soil tested each year. A pre-sidedress nitrogen test is done before sidedressing to determine the plants’ nitrogen needs. Some of their 950 tillable acres are along the Lamoille River and its tributaries, requiring strict adherence to conservation guidelines, including creating buffers to prevent nutrient run-off from fields into waterways. The Lanphears will be honored at an awards banquet at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass., in September, along with the Green Pastures Program winners from the other New England states, and at the Vermont Farm Show in Essex Junction in January. Other finalists for this year’s award, listed alphabetically, were Earl and Susan Fournier, Swanton; Brad and Jill Thomas, Shoreham; and Loren and Gail Wood, Shoreham.
Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016 — PAGE 19A
Irrigation
Back pain
(Continued from Page 1A) must produce grass and grain constantly. This summer, many dairy farmers are struggling to keep up. Most rely solely on rain to water their grazing pastures. With southeastern Vermont in a moderate drought, and the rest of the state feeling the lack of rain, dairy farmers have suffered more than most agricultural producers. The NRCS’s Howlett said that managing irrigation and grazing takes some planning. “On the one hand it’s really simple. Cows were born to graze,” he said. “But there’s a lot of complexity to it, and to do it well, it takes a lot of management.” This complexity is mainly based on the herd’s movement. Organic farmers like the Hescocks move the cows from pasture to pasture, which gives each field time to regrow. The delicate balance tips, though, if a farmer moves the herd through pastures too quickly, or if there isn’t enough water to support continuous movement. The Hescock farm backs up to Lake Champlain, an easily accessible source that supplies water to the traveling gun irrigation system as well as a smaller system comprised of “pods.” The pods are sets of sprinklers connected through a main line. Each sprinkler has a circular black cover, shaped like a tire, to protect it from damage from cattle and movement. The pods are portable, and dragging them from place to place is comparable to moving a hose from one pasture to another. Kathleen Hescock says the process takes her 15 minutes. Pods are also considerably less expensive than the traveling gun system. The installation price for the pods is estimated at just over $16,500 for a 20-acre paddock and $1,200-per-year upkeep, according to a study by UVM Extension. While the Hescocks bought their traveling gun system used for just over $15,000, it can cost as much as $45,000 new. Organizations like the Natural Resources Conservation Service supply financial assistance to farmers in certain situations, but right now, they do not provide funding for pasture irrigation equipment. The Hescocks funded the system privately. “Anything that helps the cows
(Continued from Page 17A) When appropriate, use assistive technology to ease the burden on you and your back. Consider equipment such as forklifts, dollies, handcarts or a hoist of some sort. I absolutely love hydraulics; my tractor loader bucket has been a life saver, and likely a back saver. Just make sure you’re trained and comfortable using such equipment before attempting. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety-toed shoes or boots. Again, get help when needed. If it is too heavy to lift safely alone, get someone to assist you. Is it awkward, bulky or heavy? Wait. That sounds like a two-person job. Use proper lifting techniques including the following: 1. Get as close as possible to the object you need to lift. 2. Get a good broad stance with feet place squarely under you. Avoid twisting. 3. Bending your knees, squat down, keep your back straight and grasp the object securely with both hands. Use gloves if needed. 4. Look up. That alone will help keep your back straight and not arched. Try it and you’ll see and feel the difference whether looking down or up. I learned this during a rescue squad training years ago, and it has proven invaluable ever since. 5. Hug the object to be lifted close to you, like you’re holding a baby. 6. Get ready to lift, tightening your muscles, keeping your back straight and strong and looking forward and upward. 7. Lift slowly with your legs. Do not jerk. Breathe out slightly as you lift and stand. For more information on back injuries and lifting techniques, check out these websites: www.mayoclinic.org (Mayo Clinic); www. osha.com (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and www. nsc.org (National Safety Council). Or just do an internet search for back safety, back injuries, lifting safety, safe lifting techniques or something similar. More sites will emerge than you will have time to read. George Cook is the safety specialist for the University of Vermont Extension Farm.
BRUCE HOWLETT, A soil conservationist with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, above, speaks during an irrigation seminar sponsored by UVM Extension and the Northeast Organic Farming Association in Shoreham recently. Below, Howlett demonstrates the use of a stick that measures the density and height of grazing grass and can help farmers determine when it is best to move grazing animals out of a pasture. Independent photos/Trent Campbell
helps our bottom line,” Kathleen said. Joe added that since the farm obtained the irrigation systems about a month ago, he’s been happy with the results. “The pasture’s much improved,” he said. Workshop attendees Mark and Sarah Russell own a 90-cow dairy farm in Orwell that directly abuts Lake Champlain, and are considering installing a traveling gun system. “I think I’ve got more questions than answers now,” Mark Russell said, noting that the Hescocks were lucky to find a used reel that was so large at its discounted price. “But (the workshop) was definitely helpful,” Sarah Russell added. Joe Hescock says his entire operation is more efficient with the added irrigation. The milk even tastes better, he claims. “We’re trying to feed them fresh forage, which does make good quality milk,” he said. “That’s a part of the organic story.”
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PAGE 20A — Addison Independent, Thursday, August 18, 2016
Brewer to tell story of beer making at Chimney Point ADDISON — On Sunday, Aug. as bottles to purchase will be avail28, from 2-4 p.m., Kevin Hanson, able for adults. brewer and owner of Hogback MounThe Chimney Point State Historic tain Brewery in Bristol, Site is located at 8149 will be in residence on Route 17, at the Vermont Kevin Hanson the porch at the Chimney foot of the Lake Chamwill talk with Point State Historic Site plain Bridge. Call 802visitors from in Addison, for a “Blast 759-2412 for informa2-4 p.m. about from the Past” afternoon. tion. brewing beer The program is included The site is regularand the story in the museum admission ly open Wednesdays of his path from of $5 for adults. through Sundays and home brews Hanson will talk with Monday holidays through to his new visitors from 2-4 p.m. Columbus Day 9:30 a.m.microbrewery. about brewing beer and 5 p.m. the story of his path from For information about home brews to his new Vermont’s State-Owned microbrewery. He’ll tell you how Historic Sites, visit http://historicBristol history inspired him with the sites.vermont.gov. names of his brews. Samples as well
Alternatives
TALIN TEAGUE IS PASSED upside down over the heads of fellow castmates during a rehearsal Monday for the Town Hall Theater Young Company production of “Alice in Wonderland,” which opens Aug. 23.
Independent photo/Trent Campbell
Alice (Continued from Page 1A) said. “I imagine every cast member has asked themselves ‘Who am I?’ at least once this past year.” To further connect the actors
with the situations, characters and emotions in the play, the company has had countless discussions about the issues presented in the play: a woman entering society,
MEMBERS OF THE Young Company acting troupe are in almost constant motion as they run through scenes for their upcoming production of “Alice in Wonderland.” Photo courtesy of Town Hall Theater
what all the characters mean to Alice and even what choreography would best represent the essence of the characters. “I think that in getting to some of (these issues) you can also get to the tenderness and the heart of it all,” Gratton said. “We don’t want the audience to leave scratching their heads. We want them to see Alice’s journey as something really important and to take them with us emotionally (on this journey).” The darkness of the production is most prevalent in its focus on the physical. Although Alice is not a musical, the play conveys much of its story through dance, gymnastics and other physical movements that are intended to draw out the emotional, human experiences of the situations. Each day’s rehearsals consist of workshops that build on the physical skills and techniques required by the play. By building a firm foundation with these workshops, Pontius and Gratton are giving the actors tools not only to participate in the physically demanding production, but also to contribute their own insights on their characters and scenes.
When thinking about their characters, the young actors must consider not only the motivating forces driving their characters but also how to bring their characters to life through movement. “It’s very different from the (other) productions I’ve done,” said Talin Teague, who plays Alice in the play. “The entire ensemble is always on stage, and there isn’t a moment of downtime. Something is happening constantly.” Both Teague and fellow cast member Connor Harris, who plays Lewis Carroll in the production, hope that the constant motions on stage will serve to further draw the audience into their story. “A lot of families are going to come watch their kids perform on stage, and we don’t want them to like it because it’s someone they know,” Teague said. “We want the audience to really like (the play) and see how much effort we’ve put into it.” Harris hopes audiences will lose themselves in the story. “It shouldn’t be about kids acting out ‘Alice in Wonderland’ on stage,” he said. “It should be about ‘Alice in Wonderland’ on stage.”
15 percent of all services to the animal shelter. The salon will also host a bake sale that day and a raffle for a $25 gift certificate.
O’Brien’s documentary “The Hungry Heart,” the Middlebury native’s award-winning and intimate look at drug addiction in Vermont. The preview begins at 5 p.m. on Wednesday with a food and wine reception; the film screening is at 6 p.m. Following the movie, O’Brien and members of the cast will be onstage to answers questions and talk about the making of the film. Tickets are $25 per person and available online at www.vermontcf.org/ aug24. Proceeds from the event go to benefit the Vermont Women’s Fund and Kingdom County Productions, both nonprofit organizations. Tickets will also be available at the door.
By the Way (Continued from Page 1A) the movies in the official MNFF program, which is tucked inside this edition. In Middlebury, Mill Street will be closed on Monday, Aug. 22, from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. The highway department will be replacing a storm pipe across the street near Storm Cafe. The Mill Street parking lot will be accessible from Weybridge Street and traffic control will be present to assist. On Tuesday, Mill Street will be one lane traffic in the same area, but you can access the parking lot from Main Street as usual. If you are planning to attend the Aug. 28 Addison Town Historical
Society Picnic don’t forget to let Geoff Nelson know whether you want a hot dog or hamburger so he can have enough food on hand. Send him an email at gsnelson@ gmavt.net. The picnic will start at 4 p.m. at the picnic area of Bud and Alice Bodette in West Addison at 7240 Route 17 W. Bring a picnic lunch to share and your own beverages. Bucky Douglas will be there with his accordion to entertain everyone. Bimini Bill’s Hair Resort on Main Street in Middlebury will host a benefit to help Homeward Bound: Addison County’s Humane Society. This Saturday will be Homeless Animal Day at Bimini Bill’s and the beauty salon has pledged to donate
The Vermont Women’s Fund and Kingdom County Productions will host a special benefit preview screening of filmmaker Bess O’Brien’s newest documentary, “All of Me,” next Wednesday, Aug. 24, from 5-8 p.m. at the Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center at 60 Lake St. in Burlington. “All of Me” is centered around the lives of women, girls and boys caught in the downward spiral of eating disorders and their individual struggles to regain a sense of self-compassion and healing. “All of Me” follows
(Continued from Page 11A) throughout the region.” • Submit a proposal detailing the proposed governance structure. The guidelines underscore Act 46’s language that the State Board will approve alternative structures “only if the Board concludes that this alternative structure is the best means of meeting the (Act 46 goals) in a particular region” (emphasis in original). The guidelines place the burden of proof on the districts themselves “to demonstrate due diligence and to provide sufficient, thoughtful evidence in support of a proposal to form an alternative structure.” According to the draft guidelines, these alternative proposals would then be “considered only in connection with the development of the statewide governance plan.” This is
the plan put together by the secretary of education, for the state as a whole, that is then presented to the board by June 1, 2018. The board would then be tasked with final approval and is scheduled to issues a final statewide education plan by Nov. 30, 2018. The draft guidelines underscore that “Act 46, which created the concept of proposals for ‘alternative structures,’ does not include any other process by which a district or group of districts present a proposal for an ‘alternative structure’ or by which the proposal is reviewed. “There is a lot being expected of local school boards — it puts the burden on these school boards and this sets the bar high,” said Vermont School Board Associate President Nicole Mace at the July meeting.
Mountain Health Center Welcomes New Primary Care Providers and Dentists! Amber Jimerson FNP
Amber joined Mountain Health in 2015 and is now currently expanding her practice. She is a Family Nurse Practitioner who can see the entire age spectrum. Amber received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Bates College, and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing & Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Rochester. Her practice philosophy includes following the latest evidence-based approaches to care while developing trusting relationships with patients. Amber has spent time working in neuro-medicine, urgent care, and occupational medicine, and is excited to develop a new primary care focus. When not at work, Amber lives and plays locally with her two children, two dogs, and husband. She has a special interest in all things outdoors (sailing, swimming, paddle boarding, skiing, hiking, biking, gardening, and collecting caterpillars and tadpoles with her son).
Renee Bratpis MD
Renee is joining the Mountain Health Center team and will be available for appointments beginning November 1, 2016. Renee grew up in Monkton and attended Mt. Abe Union High School. She attended undergrad at McGill University and went on to study medicine at the University of Vermont. Renee completed her residency in family medicine and a fellowship in obstetrics and gynecology in Ventura, California. She is excited to be moving back to provide full spectrum family medicine care in her hometown. In her free time Renee enjoys spending time with her family, skiing, hiking and reading.
Mountain Health Dental Care will be announcing our new dentists who will begin providing services in September! More to follow!
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