Mounta in Times Volume 46, Number 52
Independent, disentangled, liberated, unbound, FREE!
Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
20 18
Year in review
2B •
YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
Scott signs bill legalizing marijuana in Vermont
January
By Mike Dougherty/VTDigger
On Jan. 22, Gov. Phil Scott signed into law a bill legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, making Vermont the first state to pass a legalization measure through legislation rather than a voter initiative. In a letter notifying the Legislature, Scott expressed “mixed emotions” about signing the bill, which allows possession of specific amounts of marijuana by people 21 or older. Scott had previously said he would sign the bill, which he called “a libertarian approach.” “I personally believe that what adults do behind closed doors and on private property is their choice,” he wrote in his letter today. The governor was previously undecided on whether to sign the bill in a public ceremony. At a press conference last week, he announced that he would be signing the bill in private. Effective July 1, 2018, the bill allows the possession of 1 ounce or less of marijuana and two mature and four immature marijuana plants by people 21 or older. “Marijuana remains a controlled substance in Vermont and its sale is prohibited,” Scott wrote today. His letter reiterated that consumption in public places is prohibited, and use by operators and passengers in motor vehicles also remains illegal.
21 By Evan Johnson
Backcountry skiers and split-boarders ascend Brandon Gap Dec. 31 for plentiful snow despite freezing temperatures.
Deep cold tempers New Year’s night
By Evan Johnson
Deep cold couldn’t stop the action in Killington over New Year’s weekend, as a blast of arctic weather that stretched from the Northeast to as far west as Texas, settled in to stay. But it did temper it. Kristel Fillmore, Killington’s communications manager, said the resort reported lower traffic than previous New Year’s weekends due to the cold. At Darkside Snowboards, general manager Tucker Zink said goggles, facemasks, handwarmers and “anything to keep your skin covered” were selling fast. While the weekend showed the usual holiday traffic up and down the Killington Road, Zink said the cold “definitely kept people away this year.” And in the evenings, revelers threw on an extra sweater for ringing in the new year. D.J. Prime
Killington joins industry for new ‘Ikon’ Pass By Evan Johnson
played to a sold-out crowd at the Wobbly Barn. Charity’s Tavern & Restaurant was also sold out. Liquid Art’s Beth Sarandrea said cold temperatures had visitors coming in for hot drinks all day, but traffic dropped off during the evening hours, making it the quietest New Year’s Eve in six years. Subzero temperatures were forecast to stay over the next several days, with wind chills expected to reach 20 to 30 degrees below 0 F. in areas of the state. Hypothermia, frostbite, and other hazards are a serious concern in these conditions. The state recommends taking proper actions to keep yourself, your household, pets and your property safe. At Killington Resort, guests bundled up for skiing and riding on 147 trails and 1,200 acres of skiing and riding over the holdiay week.
Killington Resort’s parent company, Powdr Corp., has joined forces with other ski industry giants to offer a new pass valid across 23 destinations in nine U.S. states and three Canadian provinces. The new Ikon Pass is a collaboration of seven ski industry leaders including Powdr, Altera Mountain Company, Aspen Skiing Company, Alta Ski Company, Boyne Resorts, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and
Snowbird. Pico will not be included in the Ikon pass. Altera’s eastern destinations include Stratton, Killington in Vermont; Tremblant in Quebec, Canada; New Hampshire’s Loon; Sunday River and Sugarloaf in Maine; and Snowshoe in West Virginia. For the 2018-2019 winter, Killington Resort will continue to offer its season pass but will no longer participate in the M.A.X. Pass.
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YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
• 3B
February
21
Courtesy KES
Killington kindergartner, Isabelle, crawled through a tunnel to celebrate the 100th day of school, Feb. 8.
WCSU offers intradistrict elementary school choice Students and families in the new Windsor Central Unified District (WCUD), which consists of the towns of Bridgewater, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Reading, and Woodstock) can now choose which of the four district elementary schools they would like to attend. The goals for the
Intra-district School Choice Program (a key provision in the Act 46 plan put forth by the WCSU Act 46 Committee) are to meet the diverse needs of the student population, balance class sizes in all schools, create optimal learning environments, and provide options for families.
28
Senate panel advances ‘extreme risk’ gun legislation By Alan J. Keays/VTDigger
The words of a Poultney teenager charged in a thwarted school shooting plot resonated in the small room as a Senate panel advanced a bill Friday, Feb. 23, allowing authorities to seize a firearm from a person deemed a risk to themselves or others. The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 5 to 0 to adopt S.221, a measure that establishes a civil court process for law enforcement to restrict some people from possessing firearms for up to 60 days if they are determined to pose an imminent “extreme threat.”
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By Mike Dougherty/VTDigger
Meaghan Filkowski, a Harwood Union High School senior, was one of dozens of students who pressed legislators to tighten gun laws Friday, Feb. 23, at the statehouse. Teens pushed for greater safety measures.
T H E Y E L LO W B U I L D I N G N E A R R A M ’ S H E A D LO D G E
The bill now heads to the Senate floor for a vote this week. Later this week, senators are expected to take up another piece of gun legislation calling for universal background checks before private sales of firearms in Vermont. Sen. Dick Sears, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, read from a police affidavit explaining the arrest last week of Jack Sawyer, 18, who police said threatened to cause “mass casualties” at Fair Haven Union High School. The bill gives authorities the ability to act in situations involving some-
one planning to commit domestic violence or suicide, or a person set on carrying out a rampage, such as a school shooting. The Senate Judiciary Committee’s action Friday advancing S.211 comes a day after Gov. Phil Scott said “everything is on the table” when it comes to gun legislation. The governor has said the school shooting last week in Florida that left 17 people dead, as well as the chilling details in the police affidavit in Sawyer’s alleged plot in Vermont, had “jolted” him, causing a fundamental change in his position on gun control.
4B •
YEAR IN REVIEW
Teenager denies school shooting plot
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
RRMC appoints new president and CEO
March
By Alan J. Keays/VTDigger
Police say an 18-year-old Poultney teen told them he planned to shoot up his former high school in Fair Haven, inspired by the two killers who carried out the mass shooting at Columbine High School in Colorado nearly two decades ago. Jack Sawyer also told police of a notebook he kept where he wrote down his preparations for carrying out his plot, titled, “The Journal of an Active Shooter,” according to court records released Friday. Police said they uncovered the plan before it could be carried it out thanks, in large part, to a girl, who they did not identify, who reported to authorities text exchanges she had with Sawyer following the school shooting in Florida earlier this week that left 17 people dead. In those messages, Sawyer texted in response to the Florida shooting, “That’s fantastic. 100 percent support it,” according to court records. He later added in a text to the girl that school shootings are just “natural selection” where the strong can get out and survive, court records stated. “This is a stark reminder that we are not immune from tragic violence,” Gov. Phil Scott said Friday at a press conference from his Montpelier office. “If not for the individuals who spoke up and reported something abnormal and concerning, we might be having an entirely different conversation today and we can’t accept that,” the governor said. “To be quite honest with you, in the aftermath of Florida, this situation in Fair Haven has jolted me,” Scott said. “Especially after reading the affidavit, and realizing that only by the grace of God and the courage of a young woman who spoke up did we avert an horrific outcome.” Sawyer, arrested Thursday, Feb. 15, by Vermont State Police, appeared Friday afternoon, Feb. 16, in Rutland Superior Criminal Court for an arraignment on four felony offenses. The charges include two counts of attempted aggravated murder as well as individual counts of attempted first-degree murder and attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. If convicted of the offenses, Sawyer faces life in prison. Sawyer pleaded not guilty to the offenses and said little during the brief court proceeding.
07
Courtesy KMS
Spencer Wood will compete in Slalom and Giant Slalom at the Paralympic Games.
John Casella, chair of the board at Rutland Regional Medical Center, announced March 2 the board’s unanimous selection of Claudio D. Fort as the next president and CEO of Rutland Regional Medical Center, Vermont’s largest community hospital. Fort will succeed current President and CEO Tom Huebner, who is retiring at the end of March after a 28-year tenure. Fort has been in executive healthcare leadership in both the not-for-profit and forprofit sectors for nearly 30 years. Fort comes to Rutland Regional from North Country Health System (NCHS) in Newport, Vt., where he served as CEO since 2008. NCHS is a private non-profit acute care, critical access hospital and multi-specialty group with 47 providers, and a 23-bed nursing home.
Claudio D. Fort During his nine-year tenure with NCHS, Fort strengthened the hospital’s balance sheet and oversaw strategic initiatives that positioned the organization for future operational success, of which there were many. Born and raised in Nashua, New Hampshire, Fort’s well-rounded education includes an M.B.A. from New Hampshire College in Manchester and a B.A. in economics and history from the Whittemore School of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire in Durham.
KMS alum to compete in PyeongChang Paralympics
By Amy Allen
The kickoff of the Paralympic Games will take place in PyeongChang, South Korea from March 9-18. Friends of Killington Mountain School have even more of a reason to tune in, as Class of 2015 graduate Spencer Wood will compete in two events – Slalom and Giant Slalom – at the games. Wood, a native of Pittsfield, is currently a sophomore at the University of Colorado-Boulder where he is studying strategic communications, with a focus on advertising and marketing. His parents, Barb and Randy Wood, still reside in Pittsfield and have both worked as ski instructors at Killington. Wood suffered a left-brain stroke in utero, leaving him with right side hemiparesis, which translates to permanent weakness and deficits on the right side of his body. He participated in a variety
of athletics as a child and teen, having to work harder and push more than those around him as he couldn’t always get his body to respond and perform in the ways he wanted due to his disability. After a lifetime of being integrated with his peers in athletics and pursuing Alpine racing for years via both the KSC/KMS development programs and ultimately as a full-term KMS academy student-athlete, Wood made the move to train and race with the disabled circuit, training out of the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, Colo., and this is where the magic began. Races will be shown on NBCSN at 12 a.m. on March 14, and during prime time airing on March 16, beginning at 7 p.m. The NBC Sports app will livestream the entire Games.
Killington to invest $16 million:
Resort unveils new/upgraded lifts, improved terrain, and new summer attractions
By Polly Lynn Mikula
On Thursday, March 1, approximately 400 people gathered at Killington Grand Resort for a “Resort Update” where Mike Solimano, president and GM of Killington and Pico, outlined planned investments of over $16 million at Killington and Pico ahead of the 2018-19 season. Some of the biggest winter enhancements will include: a new 6-person high speed bubble chairlift at Snowdon ($7.8 million), new lift service at South Ridge, upgrades to the K-1 Express Gondola including new cabins ($2.2 million), hands-free lift access gates at both Killington and Pico ($1.5 million) as well as improved intermediate trails and new ski bridges and tunnels at key intersections. “While we are committed to staying core to our Beastly advanced terrain, we are also putting the focus on our blue
family-friendly terrain,” said Solimano. “Uphill capacity will increase to 48,000 per hour and the downhill enhancements will create more diverse terrain for all levels of skiers and riders.” Solimano also presented new investment plans for this summer, including a Ninja-style obstacle course (called WreckTangle), exercise pod and jogging path, and a chock-full event schedule including the addition of the Mountain Bike US Open Aug. 1-5. Summer investments this year will total just $500,000, but investments over the past five years come to $6 million, Solimano explained. Mountain biking has seen the lion’s share of investment dollars and the resort has seen that investment pay off in correlated rider visits...representing a total growth of 91 percent, said Solimano.
14
By Corey Potter
Killington Mountain Guide Bob Giolito skis waist-deep powder following the storm to begin March.
Deep March snow Three feet of snow pile up across central Vermont
By Julia Purdy and Polly Lynn Mikula
With 32 inches of new snow in the past week at Killington and a possibility of 8-12 more inches by Wednesday, March 14, the old weather proverb seems to be proved true: March has come in like a lion! Winter Storm Quinn was the second Nor’easter to strike New England in a week, after Winter Storm Riley. But unlike Riley’s freak high winds and heavy coastal flooding, Quinn was a notch calmer, although it delivered heavier, wetter snow. The Associated Press reported three fatalities, two of them directly related to Quinn, compared to Riley’s nine. Now the region is in the mist of its third major March snow storm. The snow will continue Wednesday, possibly lingering into Thursday. In total, the region could get one to three feet by the week’s end. Temperatures are expected to remain well below freezing through Friday, so this storm promises lighter, fluffier snow than the storms preceding it. Severe March storms have been a fact of life in the Northeast for at least 130 years. The Great Blizzard of 1888, March 11-14, called the “Great White Hurricane,” stalled over the Northeast and dropped up to 58 inches (reported at Saratoga Springs); snow drifts averaged 30-40 feet. The year 1900 saw the Great March Storm, dumping 40 inches in Woodstock. In “The Vermont Weather Book,” David Ludlum notes 57 inches on March 8, 1967.
YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
Okemo joins EPIC
By Karen D. Lorentz
Okemo Mountain Resort has announced its 2018-19 season pass options and with them the new benefits of a partnership with Vail Resorts’ Epic passes. On March 14 Vail Resorts, Inc. announced that the Triple Peaks resorts of Okemo, Mount Sunapee (New Hampshire), and Crested Butte (Colorado) were the latest areas to join the Epic Pass in “a long-term alliance beginning with the 2018-2019 winter season.” The Triple Peaks areas are managed by the Mueller family. The new partnerships bring the total number of Epic Pass mountain resorts to 64 in eight countries. The 10-year old Epic Pass has expanded over the years to include unlimited skiing at the 15 mountain areas that Vail Resorts owns, limited days at 39 partner resorts in Europe and Japan, and (starting next
winter) seven days at the newly added partnership areas — Telluride (Colorado), six resorts of the Canadian Rockies (Fernie, Kicking Horse, and Kimberly in British Columbia, Nakiska in Alberta, and Mont Sainte Anne and Stoneham in Quebec), and the three Triple Peaks resorts (Okemo, Sunapee and Crested Butte). “We are proud to join the Epic Pass in a long-term season pass alliance with Okemo, Mount Sunapee and Crested Butte. Our focus on guest service, reinvestment in our resorts and outstanding ski experiences both in New England and the Rocky Mountains aligns well with the Epic Pass and Vail’s remarkable line-up of resorts. We expect this partnership will be a significant benefit to our guests and skiers and riders around the world for years to come,” said Tim Mueller, president of Triple Peaks, LLC.
Stay-to-Stay initiative aims to attract workers to settle in Rutland Vermont Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) announced the Stay-to-Stay initiative, a new economic development tourism program designed to help visitors relocate to Vermont, Friday, March 23. “We have about 16,000 fewer workers than we did in 2009. That’s why expanding our workforce is one of the top priorities of my administration,” said Scott. “We must think outside the box to help more Vermonters enter the labor force
and attract more working families and young professionals to Vermont. ” A Stay-to-Stay Weekend will begin with a Friday evening reception hosted by a local chamber or young professionals network, followed by the opportunity to explore the region and its many attractions throughout the weekend. On Monday, guests will meet with employers who are hiring, take a tour with a Realtor, or visit an incubator/coworking space to meet with entrepreneurs and professionals in pre-arranged
excursions to learn about living and working here. “Thirteen million people come to Vermont each year, and many of them express a desire to stay permanently as residents,” said Wendy Knight, commissioner of VDTM. “The Stay-to-Stay program helps make that day-dream of living in Vermont a reality.” The initiative will be piloted in Rutland, Brattleboro and BenningtonManchester communities on four weekends: April 6-9, June 1-4, Aug. 10-13 and Oct. 19-22.
Killington Town Manager fired ‘without cause’
April
By Polly Mikula
Schwartz simply asked for clarificaAt 8:20 p.m. on Wednesday, March tion about when the 180 day time period 28, the Killington Select Board came would begin. Finneron said April 29, after out of executive session to announce the 30 day period, all of which will be the termination of Deborah Schwartz paid. from the position of Town Manager Finneron asked for an answer on “without cause.” The board unaniwhether or not Schwartz intended to mously approved the motion. work by the weekend. There was little discussion. The meeting adjourned at 8:24 p.m. Board Chair Steve Finneron The town of Killington named Deboexplained that “Under the contract rah Schwartz town manager on April 18, there’s a 30 day notice, which expires 2016. on April 29, during this time you’ll As of Tuesday, April 3, Schwartz had Deborah Schwartz be paid. Under section 5, you will also not showed up to work. Finneron reported receive 180 days pay… Deborah, you have the choice, that the Select Board had received mail from her and we’re not asking for an answer now, of whether attorney Tuesday morning and the town’s attorney you want to work the 30 days. You do not have to and (Alison Bell) was reading over it currently. He was you will still receive the 30 days pay for it.” hopeful that they’d have something final to present
at the regularly scheduled Select Board meeting that evening. The Select Board proceeded with “termination without cause” based on legal advice from Bell who works for Langrock Sperry & Wool, the law firm that originated the contract with Schwartz. “The town lawyer advised us to go this direction as it would prevent us from a potentially lengthy and costly court challenge,” Finneron explained. “Whereas if we listed specific causes, each would be open to challenge… and we might not win.” Because of the decision to terminate without cause, the Select Board could not further elaborate on any reason that lead them to their decision to part ways with Schwartz. When asked for comment, Schwartz responded via email: “I have been advised not to make any public statements at this time.”
What's Happening
at Okemo
Epic Day SKIP THE LINE. BUY ONLINE. Save money and time when you purchase ahead by visiting okemo.com/epicday. Receive the greatest discount when you purchase lift tickets at least 7 days prior to your visit.
Torchlight Parade & Fireworks THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 Enjoy a pyrotechnics show at 5:30 p.m. in the Okemo Clock Tower base area, following an amazing torchlight parade of skiers and riders traversing Okemo’s Open Slope trail.
Okemo Family New Year's Eve MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 Midnight arrives early for friends and family enjoying a whole host of activities. Activities start at 5 p.m. Pizza & Dance Party begins at 6:30 p.m. Festivities conclude at 9 p.m. with an incredible fireworks display. Purchase tickets online at okemo.com/events or call (802) 228-1600.
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6B •
YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
2018/2019
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YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
• 7B
May
By Milt Priggee, Oak Harbor, WA
A naked gunman killed four at a Waffle House shooting in Nashville, TN, April 22.
Governor to sign historic gun bill after passage in Senate By Alan J. Keays/VTDigger
A landmark bill that would make a series of significant changes to the state’s gun laws has received final approval from Vermont’s General Assembly. Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, says he intends to sign that bill as well as two others that introduce new gun control measures. The passage Friday, March 30, of the sweeping changes to the state’s gun laws comes on the heels of final approval earlier in the day of two separate bills that allow police to seize firearms in dangerous situations. Earlier, the Senate voted 17-13 to “concur” with a House version of S.55, a bill that
expands background checks, bans bump stocks, raises the age to buy a gun to 21 and sets limits on the size of magazines – 15 rounds for handguns and 10 for long guns. The age restriction will exempt law enforcement and military personnel, as well as those who have taken a hunter safety course. Supporters of the legislation say it will help keep guns out of the hands of people who shouldn’t have them and reduce the lethality of firearms. Opponents counter that the proposed changes will be ineffective, and make it more difficult for lawabiding Vermonters to obtain guns.
26
By Paul Dimascio
Dozens of skiers, riders and bikers celebrated the last day of the winter season on top of Killington. The resort closed for skiing and riding May 26.
Slopes close May 26
Killington Resort officially closed for skiing and riding during an 80 degree day on Saturday, May 26. The closing day was announced May 23. The resort was open a total of 187 days this year for skiing and riding. It opened Nov. 8 for pass-holders and Nov. 9 for the public. Meanwhile, Killington’s summer activities, including the Killington Golf Course, Bike Park and Adventure Center, opened this past Memorial Day weekend for the summer season.
Town banks on BGM ‘fore-sight’ By Polly Mikula
Hundreds turn out for gun rights rally 1,200 magazine rounds given away to gun activists By Anne Galloway, VTDigger
Hundreds of gun activists swarmed the State House lawn Saturday afternoon, March 31, to protest the passage of S.55, legislation that puts sweeping new restrictions on gun use in Vermont. During the rally, participants formed two lines on the sidewalk in front of the State House on State Street sidewalk in Montpelier to pick up 30-round gun magazines, provided for free by Magpul, a
manufacturer of firearm accessories. The event was coordinated by the Vermont Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, and Rob Curtis, executive editor of RECOIL, a “firearm lifestyle magazine” based in California. Curtis, who lives in Williston, contacted Magpul for the donation of 1,200 magazine rounds. All of the magazines were given away on Saturday.
By Robin Alberti
New owners Joe and Megan Wagner (left) and their kids celebrate with former Pasta Pot owner Pete Timpone and his partner Barbara Ashworth (right).
Pasta Pot sold after 44 years; restaurant to reopen as a bakery By Robin Alberti
Pete Timpone, chef-owner of The Pasta Pot for 44 years, is hanging up his chef’s hat and ready to enjoy retirement. Well known and well loved by the community, Pete Timpone, a.k.a. “Pasta Pete,” has sold the building and land to Joe and Megan Wagner. Megan Wagner has been making sweet delights for other local restaurants, like Choice’s and The Foundry in Killington, and doing custom orders through her business, Dream Maker Bakers. Now she and her husband, Joe, have a location of their own. They will continue to sell wholesale desserts and fulfill custom orders, like wedding and party cakes, while they do some remodeling. But by the fall they hope to be opening the doors for people to stop by and grab a cup of coffee and pastries to go. By the winter they hope to have a café open, serving baked goods, coffee and smoothies to start.
B y JerryLeBlond
Bumpers race down Outer Limits pulling out their best tricks to impress judges, crowds.
Brightly-colored crowds gather for Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge Part of Killington Resort’s Nor’Beaster, its annual spring celebration, the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge was held this past Saturday, April 7. Participants and spectators wore brightly colored apparel, many in retro or just plain old fun costumes – there was even a unicorn – to enliven the slopeside parties. Competitors took to the bumps of Outer Limits at Bear Mountain, challenging each other for best trick. Timothy Massucco took first place in men’s overall; with Katherine DiMasco taking first in women’s overall.
On May 1, four days after it opened for the season (to members only), Green Mountain National Golf Course, in Killington officially came under Brown Golf Management, including its employees. Thus far, it has four: Peter Bissell, superintendent; John MacAulay, mechanic (whom the town retained as employees separate from BGM per the contract); Bobby Peterson, tournament operations director/food and beverage manager; and Marcia Jeffrey, pro shop manager/ purchasing. “All other employees have been sent a letter regarding the positions available and the new hire process … We’ll be conducting generally quick interviews when we’re in town, May 7-10,” said John Brown, CEO of Brown Golf Management. “We expect many will be rehired.” BGM’s portfolio includes 27 golf courses in seven states (Vermont, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Missouri, and Florida.)
Mountain bike enthusiasts begin talks of statewide trail By Katy Savage
While mountain biking trails are expanding throughout the region, a small committee is planning the biggest connection yet—one that would go from one side of the state to the other. The trail, called the Velomont Trail, would be like the existing Catamount Trail and Long Trail. It would connect the state’s approximate 28 mountain biking associations and would involve building
another 85 miles or so of new track. “It’s been an idea that’s been floating around for years and now we’re like, ‘let’s make this happen,’” said Rochester/Randolph Area Sports Trail Alliance president Angus McCusker. McCusker estimates the project would cost $5 to $7 million to complete. The Velomont Trail will be a multi-use trail, open year round.
8B •
YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
Vail to buy Okemo, Sunapee, Crested Butte
June
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01
It’s ok to toke…
By Katy Savage and Polly Mikula
On Sunday, July 1, recreational use and possession of pot will be legal. H.511 (Act 86) legalizes the possession and gifting of small amounts of cannabis by Vermont residents over 21, and it permits Vermonters to grow their own. The bill allows for the possession of 1 ounce of flowered cannabis, two mature plants, and four immature plants. Plants cannot be in public view. Pot growers may possess whatever they harvest from their plants, even if it exceeds the one-ounce state limit, according to the H.511. Public use is prohibited. The new law does not address the issue of marijuana sales in the state, but that will likely be addressed in the near term as bills have been advanced.
Triple Peaks, LLC, owned by Tim and Diane Mueller and their children Ethan and Erica Mueller, announced Monday, June 4, they have entered into a purchase agreement with Vail Resorts, Inc. Triple Peaks, LLC, is the parent company for Okemo Mountain in Vermont, Mount Sunapee in New Hampshire and Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Colorado. The sale includes the three ski resort operations, as well as Okemo Valley Golf Club in Ludlow and Tater Hill Golf Club in Windham. Vail will reportedly pay $82 million for the purchase as well as $155 million to pay off leases. Tim and Diane Mueller have owned and run Okemo since 1982.
David and Diane Rosenblum
Submitted
The newly designed White’s Pool reopened June 21.
New pools open in Rutland By Karen D. Lorentz
RUTLAND—White Memorial Park in Rutland City will debut its two new pools with a community opening from noon to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 21, and Friday, June 22, followed by a gala celebration from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on June 23. The new six-lane, 75-foot competition pool will accommodate lap swimming and the Rutland Swim Team. The family pool features a zero entry pool, a small slide, spray features, and splash buckets.
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Obituary: Diane Rosenblum, 71 Diane S. Rosenblum, 71, died June 9, 2018, at her home as a result of cardiac amyloidosis associated with multiple myeloma. She was the wife of David A. Rosenblum of Killington. A celebration of her life was held at 11 a.m. June 15 in the Clifford Funeral Home in Rutland. A reception followed in the Sherburne Memorial Library.
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YEAR IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
Bear enters Northstar Lodge
July
• 9B
August
By Polly Lynn Mikula
Courtesy Killington Resort
Ninja obstacles course opens.
WreckTangle opens at Killington Resort
16
The WreckTangle, a proprietary ninja obstacle challenge named after its rectangular shape, debuted at Killington Resort, Friday, June 22. The WreckTangle has 10 obstacles, which can be swapped out, including a quarter pipe finish. The thrilling obstacles are designed to be achievable and un for kids and adults. Aspiring ninjas use skill, strength, creativity and determination, and build confidence and camaraderie with friends as hey conquer each new chalenge. Mike Solimano, president and GM of Killington Resort, said, “The WreckTangle empowers kids of all ages to grow physically and emotionally through creative expression in sport.”
Submitted
Multiple crews responded to a fire that damaged a historic Woodstock building.
Fire guts historic building, businesses
Staff report
A family was displaced and multiple businesses were impacted by a fire on Central Street Monday, July 16. The fire started around 3:30 a.m. and damaged the historic 55 Central St. building, which housed Pi Brick Oven Trattoria, The Collective art gallery, apartments and the Vermont Standard’s offices. Two fire fighters went to the hospital from the excessive heat and humidity, said Woodstock Fire Chief David Green. Half of the building, where the restaurant and apartment were located, was a total loss, said Ellaway Property Services, Inc. President Elizabeth Deignan. The Collective and a portion of the Vermont Standard’s offices were saved. Deignan, which manages the property, said people would be able to get back into the building and start cleaning Tuesday.
Tuesday afternoon, July 10, was unusually exciting at the Northstar Lodge in Killington. Becky Piteau is used to welcoming new guests to the lodge, but never did she expect to see a black bear wander through the front doors. But that’s exactly what happened at 2:30 p.m. “We had the doors open because it was hot in here and the bear just walked in,” she explained, calling the event exciting. She said the bear sat down in the lobby for a few moments before wandering down a hallway, then came back to the lobby and left the same way it came in. Owner Dean Romano confirmed the account, adding, “I’ve had chipmunks wander in and through my office when we leave the door open, but that’s about it.” Romano posted photos and a video of the incident on Facebook. In the video, the bear looks on the smaller side. It captures it wandering back down the hallway to the lobby. The bear walks like a casual visitor, aware and sure-footed but not seeming alarmed by the new setting.
Submitted
A bear walks in Northstar Lodge.
By Chris Vanderyajt
Jill Kintner navigates a past USO of MTB trail.
Riders to compete for speed and style By Polly Lynn Mikula
“The US Open is more than just a race, it’s a big mountain bike party for the whole family featuring vendors, live music, a bonfire and races for all levels,” said Justin Pill, events and sponsorships manager at Killington Resort. Competitors from around the world will compete at Killington Aug. 1-5 for the Fox US Open of Mountain Biking. The Pro/Am style format offers some of the most challenging and competitive racing in the nation – it’s a proving ground for upand-coming and elite racers, according to a recent news release. Anyone can enter the Open Class and compete amongst the pros for the $40,000 cash purse! For less elite riders, the Amateur Class, Grom Bomb Downhill and the US Open Adaptive Downhill races will give athletes of all abilities the chance to compete during the US Open weekend. This is the first time this world-class event has been held in Vermont. Over the past few weeks, the anticipation has built for the event as organizers, trail builders, racers and spectators all prepare for five days of mountain biking. “We are excited to partner with the resort to kick off the US Open in Vermont,” said Clay Harper, co-founder and event director of the US Open of Mountain Biking. “Everyone here is so amped for mountain biking!”
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‘tricia Carter
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Merisa Sherman
Michelle Lord
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MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE ®
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MLS
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10B • YEAR
IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
September
By Kristin Kelly Submitted
A maintenance building was destroyed in a fire at the Bomoseen Golf Course, Aug. 8.
Martin Schreiner and Lucas Hough, with dog Lola, center, stand before the GMP Innovation House they won on Cleveland Avenue in Rutland. The winners were announced Aug. 30.
New York couple wins house
Nearly 150 people gathered to celebrate the new owners of the Rutland Innovation Home on Cleveland Avenue
Lightning strikes golf club building
By Curt Peterson
By Katy Savage
The Bomoseen Golf Club is open despite losing all of its equipment in a fire Aug. 8. “Basically, we lost everything we needed to run the golf course,” said General Manager Jim Bassett. Three lawn mowers, weed trimmers, tools and golf carts that were kept inside a maintenance building are gone, said Bassett. A pump used to irrigate the golf course was also lost, along with fertilizer and pesticides and “the little things,” said Bassett. “Everything we use to maintain the condition of the golf course.” Bassett estimated the equipment loss is $100,000. “By the time fire department got the call after 12:30 a.m., it was pretty well gone,” Bassett said. Crews from Castleton Fire, Poultney Fire Department, Fair Haven Fire Department, and Hubbardton Vermont Fire Department responded to the scene. It’s unclear what caused the fire. Bassett believes it was struck by lightning. The Bomoseen Golf Course, a 9-hole golf course in Castleton, has about 90 members this year.
Green Mountain Power Corporation announced the winners of its “Rutland Innovation Home” contest on Aug. 30. Close to 150 people stood in front of the periodauthentic house at 60 Cleveland Avenue waiting to celebrate with the winners. Martin Schreiner and Lucas Hough listened as Mayor Dave Allaire formally announced, in the front yard of their new home, that their dream to live in Vermont
had come true. Schreiner, who is a food-blogger and sometimes opera singer, and Hough, who works as an assistant pathologist, got engaged upon learning they had won the house. Schreiner said, “We were speechless – who wins a free house? ” The couple’s new home was purchased in 2015 in the tax sale for $6,841. Zillow currently lists the estimated value at $145,486.
Killington purchases Mendon lodge for workers By Katy Savage
The Mendon Mountain View Lodge will soon house international employees for Killington Mountain Resort. Powdr purchased the lodge from Ski Mendon Properties, Inc. for $600,000 June 14, accord-
ing to property records. About 60 people will live in the 30-room lodge seasonally, said Killington Resort Marketing and Sales Director Rob Megnin. The lodge has a full kitchen, lounge and community area.
This is the first time the resort has purchased a building for housing. “This is part of a strategy to attract and retain staff,” said Megnin. About 10 percent of the resort’s seasonal staff come from foreign locations.
Chet Hagenbarth
Hagenbarth named Killington town manager The Select Board has appointed a new town manager with a familiar face. Chet Hagenbarth, who has been an interim town manager since April, was appointed to the town manager position in a meeting Monday, Sept. 16. Hagenbarth has worked in the Killington town office since 2012. He was the highway and facilities director until he became interim town manager after the Select Board terminated Deborah Schwartz “without cause” in March. Hagenbarth said he wants to improve Killington’s budget issues. Hagenbarth has lived in Killington since 1994.
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Elbow Road
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Bart’s Hill Road
Stunning 6000 sqft mountain home with 2-car garage on 14.5 acres in quiet neighborhood near golf course. $699K
Land Elbow Road: 10+ acre home site with shared septic $125K Tanglewood Dr: 10+acre lot, views, driveway & septic field $145K Gina Drive: 10+ acre lot w/5BR septic design $145K Upper Rebecca: 2.5 acre lot w/4BR WW permit - $149.9K Truman’s Trek: (2) lots with wells, septic & utilities in place, VIEWS! $189K, $169K Trailview Drive: ½ acre lot w/4BR septic design $199K
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Great Eastern trailside: (3) ski in ski out lots w/septic design - $399K each Mini Drive: (2) ski in/out lots w/septic design - $369K each
YEAR IN REVIEW • 11B
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE
“Happy Holidays!”
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES ERA.com
1572 KILLINGTON ROAD, KILLINGTON Unique duplex home on the Killington Road, yet private and secluded. One unit: 6 bedrooms, 3 baths, built in 1963; other unit: 2 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths & 2 car garage built in 1991. All the units can be combined into an 8 bedroom, 5.5 bath single family enclave with interior access or they can be used as individual units with separate outside entrances-- open layout with plenty of natural light. Located in the HEART of the commercial district giving you a myriad of op ons for use. Restaurants, nightclubs & shops are close by, yet they don’t infringe upon your privacy. The 2 acre (COMMERCIAL) parcel with FRONTAGE on the KILLINGTON ROAD is the last of the large commercial proper es close to the ski area. This extra acreage is noted and can be included in this offering. Seller is a lic. Vt Real Estate Broker. TEXT 115222 to 35620 for more photos & informa on right to your phone.
SLOPESIDE NEVER SOUNDED SO GRAND! KILLINGTON GRAND RESORT & SPA Quarter-share Ownership; Enjoy being pampered from Valet Parking to Skiing right out your door. A er, relax in the outdoor hot tubs while watching the mountain being groomed for the next day of skiing. Dining at the Grand’s 5-star Preston’s Restaurant & Lounge is the best way to top off the perfect day of skiing. Condos available: 1 Bedroom condo unit 319-III $42,500 1 Bedroom condo unit 150-I $45,000 2 Bedroom condo unit 152-II $49,000 3 Bedroom condo unit 102-II $54,900 Subject to a right of first refusal.
573 TANGLEWOOD DRIVE, KILLINGTON A very well-maintained and gently used vaca on home located in the heart of Killington skiing. This 5 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home features an open, vaulted ceiling with fireplace in the living and dining area. Lower floor features a separate entrance crea ng an ‘in-law/rental’ poten al. East facing deck is perfect for the morning sun. Separate garage w/ storage area below grade. Recent addi ons include entry/mudroom and an updated kitchen. Close to Killington ski area, area golfing, hiking and biking. TEXT 115221 to 35620 for more photos & informa on right to your phone.$330,000
148 WRIGHT ROAD, MENDON This is a nicely maintained home on 164+/acres with 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths with a 2 car garage and large deck. This 3,600 sf home is south facing to take advantage of the views and the sun all day long. Nice, private loca on on a dead-end road close to skiing at Killington or Pico and close to Rutland for work and shopping. Close to hiking and lakes. Great Central Loca on for everything. TEXT 116646 to 35620 for more photos & infor-
$399,900 w/ 1 Ac; $500,000 w/ 3 Ac.
www.253CedarwoodRaod.com Spectacular mountain 4BR/3BA chalet with over $75K of improvements, too numerous to list. Extraordinary views of the White River, surrounding Green Mountains and pastoral farmlands below. A 25x15 family room is above the attached garage and the private backyard has a bluestone slate patio, new 6-person hot tub, breathtaking views, and waterfall feature w/pond. Offered at $299,000
HAWLEY LANE, RUTLAND The best 4 bedroom building lot in Rutland Town. Nice southern exposure with pastoral views and exquisite sunsets. Easy flat access on paved Town Roads and very close to Rutland Town School (K-8th). Don’t wait... bring your builder with you! Seller is a licensed Vermont Real Estate Broker. $79,000
www.341NewBostonRoad.com Lovely off-the-grid 2BR log home on 17 quiet acres. Exposed wood beams, knotty pine log walls, gas-powered woodstove, open kitchen/ dining area w/large kitchen island and walk-in pantry, laundry room and half bath. Walkout basement and the full-length covered porch is the ideal place to take in long range views. Offered at $249,000
Daniel Pol Associate Broker
Kyle Kershner Broker/Owner
Jessica Posch Realtor
2814 Killington Rd., Killington, VT 802-422-3600 • KillingtonPicoRealty.com info@KillingtonPicoRealty.com REALTOR
ma on right to your phone.
1660 KILLINGTON ROAD, KILLINGTON A very unique 2.17 acre parcel on the Killington Road in the Commercial District, with over 360 feet of road frontage and great sight lines. One of the last LARGE COMMERCIAL LOTS on the Killington Road; it is close to the Killington Ski Area. Uses include: restaurant, nightclub, shops/stores/offices, hotel, and ski lodge. Public sewer. Curb cut is in place for easy driveway access. Property is located in the HEART of the COMMERCIAL DISTRICT. Seller is a lic. Vt Real Estate Broker. TEXT 115225 to 35620 for more photos & informa on right to your phone. $210,000
RIVER ROAD, KILLINGTON This is a very nice 3 acre parcel at the intersec on of Roaring Brook and the O¦auquechee River. Property is located at the beginning of River Road making it close to the Town Recrea on Center with pool, fields, tennis courts and basketball court. Property is also close to Town Library and the transfer sta on. Property is flat with plenty of room to site the house with privacy. Property has not been tested. TEXT 115228 to 35620 for more photos & informa on right to your phone. $60,000
ERA.com
802-775-0340 1913 US Route 4, PO Box 137, Killington, VT 05751 ®
Independently owned and operated
$625,000
Walter Findeisen 802-770-0093 Doug Quatchak 802-558-4645
PEAK
PROPERTY
G R O U P AT
802.353.1604
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PRIVATE ESTATE ON 194+ ACRES W/SWEET VIEWS! 5 Bed/5 Bath custom post & beam home + off grid artist cabin. Extensive trail network. Special spot close to skiing! SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR TODAY. $1,375,000
INVESTMENT CLOSE TO KILLINGTON! DIRECT ACCESS TO VAST! 15 guest rooms w/private baths, 48 seat restaurant, comm kitchen, 4 bed/1 bath innkeepers home, greenhouse, barn & more! $599K
HOMES | CONDOS | LAND | COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT | RENTALS
Marni Rieger 802.353.1604 Marni@PeakPropertyRealEstate.com 59 Central Street, Woodstock VT
SNOWMOBILE, HIKE OR BIKE OUT YOUR DOOR! Direct to trails! Gorgeous 4 bed/5 bath custom built post & beam mountain contemporary chalet must be seen! Minutes to Killington! Private spot! $499K
EQUESTRIAN’S DREAM ON OVER 60+ ACRES! Minutes to Pico, Killington & downtown Rutland. Formally a 4H horse farm. 2 bed/2 bath Log home w/garage, an indoor riding arena, 2 barns, 28 horse stalls, 5 meadows, amazing views & more! $429K
INVESTMENT OPP CLOSE TO KILLINGTON! 95 seat Restaurant & Pub located on the White River w/ great mountain & water views! Comm kitchen. Furnishings, equipment & inventory incl in sale. Parking for 48 cars. Outdoor seating on river! $279K
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HELP KEEP OUR MOUNTAINS GREEN! PLEASE RECYCLE ME!
12B • YEAR
IN REVIEW
Obituary: M.B. Neisner, Jr., 62 Melvin Bauer Neisner, Jr. (MB) came into the world on June 7, 1956, and left it on Aug. 12, 2018, surrounded by his family. His mother, Ellen Garson Neisner, and late father, Melvin B. Neisner, raised him in Rochester, New York, where he became an MB Neisner Eagle Scout, one of his proudest accomplishments. He graduated from Pittsford Sutherland High School, University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and Washington University School of Law. MB moved to Killington in 1978, first running a ski lift at the mountain and then serving as business manager of the Killington Mountain Times with his brother, Andy. Except for law school and a few years working in St. Louis, Killington has been MB’s home. He married Peggy [Margaret (Leonard) Neisner] in 1989. They raised their two children, Noellen Anna and Melvin Bauer Neisner, III (Bauer) in Killington. He dedicated himself to his family, his law practice and his community in innumerable capacities including serving as justice of the peace, town health officer, member of the Board of Civil Authority and moderator of Town Meeting. For his service to the Killington-Pico Rotary Club, including its presidency, he was awarded the top honor bestowed by the international organization, the Paul Harris Fellow recognition. He and his family welcomed many international Rotary exchange students into their home over the years. He wielded with equal skill a lawnmower, a chainsaw, a snowplow, a barbecue fork and a lawyer’s pen. He was deeply proud of his sobriety for over a decade and contributed in many ways to AA. A celebration of his life was held at Mountain Meadows Lodge on Tuesday, Aug. 21 from 4 to 6 p.m.
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
October
Submitted
Holly Boyce stands with her record-breaking 2,017-pound pumpkin harvested in Benson.
Couple breaks state record with one-ton pumpkin By Katy Savage
Some days, the pumpkin in Dan and Holly Boyces’ backyard grew 50 pounds a day. In 86 days, the pumpkin grew from the size of a cherry to the weight of a ton. The Boyces’ 2,017-pound pumpkin broke the state record this year for the largest Atlantic pumpkin ever grown. “‘It was so big it wouldn’t fit in the truck,”
said Dan Boyce. Their pumpkin is ranked the 10th heaviest grown in the world so far this year, according to the website Big Pumpkins. The Boyces, who live in Benson, broke the 2014 state record set by Mark and Sharon Breznick of Pittsford for their 1,700 pound pumpkin. “It’s science and math, basically,” said Dan Boyce.
Edward R. “Ned” Dyer
Obituary: Ned Dyer, 78 Edward R. “Ned” Dyer, 78, died Oct. 29 at Rutland Regional Medical Center. He was born in South Boston, Massachusetts, Aug. 8, 1940. He was the son of Edward and Edna (Donahue) Dyer. Dyer was a graduate of Christopher Columbus High School in Boston and a graduate of Boston School of Business Education. He was a member of the US Army Reserves. Dwyer was a bartender at The Alpine Inn, Kings Four, Bilbos, Summit Lodge and Inn at Six Mountains all in Killington. Dyer initiated Killington charity events such as Tricycle Race, The Cotillion, Bartenders Open and The Ladies Future Golf Tournament. A celebration of life was held in the spring of 2019 at Green Mountain National Golf Course in Killington. Memorial contributions may be made to Foley Cancer Center, 160 Allen St., Rutland, VT 05701. Arrangements are by the Clifford Funeral Home in Rutland.
5 minutes to Pico, 15 minutes to Killington 102 Pinecrest Rd., Rutland Town
JUST SOLD
AT PICO MOUNTAIN
Pico C-401, List Price $148,000 Sold for 150,000. Represented seller
Pico Slopeside J-101, 3Br/2Ba $181,000
Represented Buyer
Pico E-201 $177,000,
Represented Buyer
If you’re thinking about listing your Pico unit contact me today—with 3 recent closings involving Killington Valley Real Estate, I would like to make yours next.
Bret Williamson, Williamson Broker, Owner Office 802-422-3610 ext 206 Cell 802-236-1092 bret@killingtonvalleyrealestate.com
Established in 1972 If your property is listed with another agency, please disregard this mailing. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other Realtors ® or brokers.
killingtonvalleyrealestate.com for all properties.
Lovely home offers large, light filled rooms with quality details throughout. Vaulted ceilings, skylights and tile and hardwood flooring. Master bedroom and two additional bedrooms on main level with one full and one half baths. The main level kitchen is well equipped and features beautiful tile. The living room is bright with a skylight and large windows. A beautiful marble fireplace with a VT Casting insert and hardwood floors. The adjacent dining room has hardwood floors and has easy access to kitchen. There is a lower level family room with a beautiful tiled floor. It features large floor to ceiling windows and skylights to let in plenty of light. A wood burning stove makes this room a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the large deck and fenced in backyard. Finally this home has a bonus walk-out in-law apartment in the basement. It features a full kitchen, bath, laundry and mechanical room. An attached two car garage makes this home complete. A great house in a quite neighborhood minutes to Pico and Killington ski areas. MLS# 4721838 Sale Price: $259,900 g 230 West Street, Rutland C: 802-353-8133 O: 802-747-0000 x16 6 keitheddy@mac.com y
YEAR IN REVIEW • 13B
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
Shiffrin wins again!
November
By Polly Lynn Mikula
By Chandler Burgess
Skiers wave from the chair on the first day of the season.
‘Day One’ celebration brings over 500 to slopes By Katy Savage
Killington is open for the season. The resort opened Friday, Oct. 19 with three trails and about 10 inches of manmade snow covering the base. More than 500 people attended opening day, which allowed only passholders on the trails. The resort opened to the general public on Saturday. The lifts opened just before 10 a.m., Friday, but Killington’s most devoted started arriving to the parking lot at 7 a.m. to get in line. “It’s almost like a tailgating experience before the lift actually allows you to load,” said Rob Kovalesky, who has been skiing at Killington since the 1960s and is a spokesperson for the 100 Day Club. “Everybody’s high-fiving. Everybody was really excited to be back.” Kovalesky was unable to ski Friday due to an injury, but he couldn’t miss opening day. Kovalesky, who lives in Connecticut, took the morning off from work. He spent the afternoon working remotely for his business development position. Kovalesky is an avid skier who started the 100 Day Club at Killington about five years ago. Skiers and riders who hit the slopes 100 days in one season are inducted into the club. There were about 250 inductees last year. Many of them were skiing on Friday. Cold temperatures allowed Killington to open about three weeks earlier than last year’s opening day, Nov. 8. Overcast weather turned into blue skies on Friday. Killington offered a free luncheon for everybody there, with meatball sandwiches, soups, and grilled cheese
sandwiches. Everyone also received a free neck gaiter with the words, “Day One” stamped on the front. Peggy Golonka, another 100 Day Club member, wasn’t expecting the early opening, but like, Kovalesky, she couldn’t miss opening day. “Everything got dropped so we could come up,” said Golonka, who wasn’t finished putting away summer belongings yet. Golonka and her husband live in Massachusetts in the summer and move to a condo in Killington for the winter. “It’s our passion,” she said. Maria Lanka of Long Island, New York, skied 14 runs on opening day and continued skiing through the weekend. “It was beyond what I thought I was going to be able to ski,” she said. Some couldn’t wait for opening day. Michael Kever Hirschbuhl and his brother, who both study at Castleton University, hiked up to the mountain with their skis on Tuesday, Oct. 15, the day Killington crews started making snow. The snow just covered the grass at the time. “It was pretty dramatic to see,” said Hirschbuhl, who grew up in Woodstock. “ By the time we got to the top, it was almost winter.” Rime, Reason and the Upper East Hill trails were open to skiers and riders for opening weekend. Snowmaking continued on Sunday and the snow guns continued blowing on Monday. “For most of it it was full coverage and felt like a normal day on the snow,” said Killington spokesperson Courtney DiFiore of Day One.
14 Submitted
Cheryl Hooker hiking the El Camino de Santiago trail.
Hooker wins Senate seat after running unexpected campaign
By Katy Savage
After walking 500 miles from France to Spain, Cheryl Hooker will have a seat in the Vermont Senate. Hooker won one of three spots for Rutland County Senator in the Nov. 6 election. “I was thrilled,” she said. “I was kind of surprised.” Hooker, 71, did as much campaigning as she could, but she was out of the country from Aug. 21 to Oct. 11, walking El Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage that 300,000 people walk each year, with her husband George. They averaged walking 12 miles a day for 45 days. Hooker, a Democrat, was asked to put her name in as a write-in candidate three weeks before the Aug. 14 primary. This is the first time a Democrat has won a seat as Senator for Rutland County since 2012. Hooker received 10,875 votes in the election. She will serve with Republicans Brian Collamore, who received 11,476 votes and James McNeil, who received 10,751 votes. They defeated Republican Ed Larson with 10,085 votes and two other write-in Democrat candidates, Greg Cox with 10,070 votes and Scott Garren with 7,452 votes.
The Killington Cup held Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 2425, drew record crowds both Saturday for the Giant Slalom and Sunday for the Slalom races. On Saturday, sun and near-perfect snow on Superstar made for a very enjoyable and competitive race. A crowd of 18,500 cheered on the racers – especially Vermont-school Mikaela Shiffrin, who drew bib No. 1. “I was really happy with my skiing but not my level of aggression,” said Shiffrin after the race. In her first run, she finished sixth, putting her 0.59 seconds behind the leader, Norway’s Ragnhild Mowinckel. In Shiffrin’s second run she made up time and sat on the podium in first place – until the last three skiers came in. Stefanie Brunner, Mowinckel and then Italy’s Federica Brignone each posted successively better times. Shiffrin ended up fifth for her second run and fourth overall (with combined times) with Brignone taking the top spot, followed by Mowinckel and Bruner. On Sunday, fog and misty conditions made visibility and snow conditions tougher, but the race went on without delays. Mikaela, wearing bib No. 3 this time, won the first run by 0.29 second, ahead of Bernadette Schild and 0.54 ahead of both Petra Vlhova and Frida Hansdotter. For the second run racers compete in reverse order and it was a nail-biter as nearly every athlete posted a faster run than the racer before. Shiffrin, the last to race, had her work cut out for her, but skied in classic Shiffrin-style finding speed where others couldn’t and won decisively by nearly a half second, defending her Killington Cup Slalom title for the third year in a row.
By Paul Holmes
Mikaela Shiffrin crushes a gate during her winning Slalom run, Sunday, Nov. 25, defending her record.
Danielle Beckett selected for Habitat home After an extensive search, Danielle Beckett and her two children will soon be living in the home Habitat for Humanity is building on Griswold Drive at Stone Gate in Rutland. Jessica Cecot, chair of the Home Buyer Selection
Committee, announced that the board of directors unanimously endorsed the committee’s recommendation. “My kids and I are very excited to be able to finally have a place to call our own, and I couldn’t be happier to be presented with
Submitted
Danielle Beckett and her two children will soon move into the home on Griswold Drive in Rutland.
this opportunity,” said Beckett. Beckett is a single mom who has been working hard to provide a good home and opportunities for her family. Beckett currently works part time at a beauty salon, and is taking a full course load at Castleton University to qualify as a registered nurse. Their current apartment is too small and is not energy efficient. In contrast, the home on Griswold Drive has three bedrooms, and a large family room, will be highly energy efficient and Danielle’s mortgage, property taxes and insurance will cost less than what she pays for rent. About 101 different people have contributed over 2,500 hours building the home that will be completed in early 2019. In addition to paying an interest-free mortgage, Danielle will contribute a minimum of 200 hours helping to finish her home and working on other Habitat homes.
Forrest Forsythe
Obituary: Forrest Forsythe, 90 Forrest Forsyth, had recently celebrated his 90th birthday. He died peacefully on Nov. 18, 2018, in Lincoln, Massachusetts, where he lived. Forrest was born to Harold and Mildred Forsythe in Lakewood, Ohio. He flew combat and reconnaissance missions in one of the Navy’s fastest propeller driven aircraft. He lived inNew Orleans, then Germany, then Norfolk, then Killington where he became town manager, then continued to travel. In January of 2017 Forrest and his wife Julie returned to New England.
14B • YEAR
IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
One of Killington’s longest employees to retire
December
By Katy Savage
By David Young
Killington President and CEO Mike Solimano cut the ribbon for the new Snowdon high speed chairlift on Thursday, Dec. 8. The bubble lift is open for the season.
New bubble chairlift opens for season, Dec. 8
The new Snowdon Six Express chairlift is open. Killington President and CEO Mike Solimano cut the ribbon and the new lifts started spinning at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. The new high-speed lift seats six people. It’s manufactured by Leitner-Poma and features a bubble shield that will protect
skiers and riders from wind and weather as they ascend 1,100 vertical feet to the Snowdon Mountain peak, which features primarily intermediate cruising terrain. The new lift is part of Killington’s $25 million capital improvement project – the largest single year investment in the resort in
more than 20 years. The Bear Mountain Base Lodge also opened this past Saturday with all amenities, including service from the Skye Peak Express Quad. Pico Mountain is scheduled to open Friday, Dec. 14. Wednesday, Dec. 12, marked Killington’s 55th day open this season.
Rutland Beer Works to open in Killington By Katy Savage
A new restaurant and tasting room is coming to town. he’s stayed for 20 years. Dale Patterson, the owner of Hop’n Moose and Multiple business have struggled in the Killington Rutland Beer Works, LLC, is opening a tasting room in location over the last decade. A seafood and Italian resthe Mountain Green condominiums across from the Kil- taurant closed there in April after three years. lington Grand Hotel, Thursday, Dec. 13. The statistics don’t concern Patterson. “When you facHe plans to call the restaurant/tasting room Rutland tor in that 90 percent of restaurants fail anyway, it doesn’t Beer Works. The menu will be similar to the Rutland loca- scare me,” he said. tion of Hop’n Moose, featuring homemade brews and Patterson is hoping his homemade beer will entice American food. people in the door. “Craft beer is something people typiAfter five years in Rutland, Patterson had no plans cally seek out,” he said. to open a restaurant in Killington. He was approached The restaurant, located at 135 East Mountain Road, about the idea by Mountain Green Property Manager will be open seasonally, November-March, from noon to Mike Moriarty about six weeks ago. 10 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Moriarty said several condo owners who regularly eat at the Hop’n Moose wanted to have the restaurant there. “We think it’s a good fit,” Moriarty said. Condo owner David Prussen said he’s been a fan of the Hop’n Moose for two years and is eager for the opening day in Killington. “It was exactly what we were looking for,” Prussen said. Patterson expanded his craft beer business and opened Rutland Beer Works on Granger Street in Rutland last year. Patterson decided over Thanksgiving that he was going to open a new location in Killington. He signed a two-year lease agreement and has since been scrambling to open as soon as possible. “We’re getting down to the wire,” said Patterson at the Mountain Meadows restaurant Monday morning, as he printed menus and set up his new 96-seat restaurant. Patterson, a former salesman with CNC Router Parts, was always traveling, and was searching for a way to be home with his family more often. Patterson learned how to make beer as a child growing up in a small town in Canada. His father made his own beer from scratch in their basement about once a month. Patterson and his brother Kevin helped cap bottles. Patterson continued making his own beer in his garage every Saturday. “One thing he figured out is how to make really good beer,” Kevin said. Patterson moved from Canada and came to Vermont By Katy Savage to attend the University of Vermont on a hockey scholar- Dale Patterson, the owner of Hop’n Moose in Rutland, ship. He moved to Rutland to be with his then wife and opened a new location in Killington Thursday, Dec. 13.
When Dick Horner came to Killington back in 1989, Killington Road was just one lane in both directions, the Killington Grand Hotel didn’t exist and snowboarding was in its infancy. In his 30 years as town planning and zoning administrator, Horner has overseen development of major projects that have shaped Killington Resort and the town into what it is today. Horner is the one of town’s longest-serving employees. He is retiring Dec. 31. Paul Buhler, a former Planning Commission member, will serve as interim planning and zoning administrator until a new person is named. “The town is going to lose an asset,” said Buhler. Buhler, a retired math teacher at Woodstock Union Middle School, has been part of Killington since 1971. He served as interim zoning administrator in the 1980s. “I like public service,” he said. “Finding someone who has the experience and interest isn’t easy.” Horner grew up in Minnesota, received a master’s degree in urban planning in New Orleans and then moved to Florida. Horner, now 66, interviewed for the position in Killington over Columbus Day weekend in 1989 and was hired immediately. He and his wife moved from Florida to Proctor, where they raised four children, now ages 25-39. Horner’s job has shifted since he started. “There was a lot more development going on back then,” he said. When development slowed, Horner focused more on grant writing and planning.
Obituary: R. Scott Giguere, 54 R. Scott Giguere died peacefully at his home in Killington on Nov. 22, 2018, surrounded with love, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Since the inception of Killington as a ski area, Giguere has been a seminal figure in the vitality and development of the area. With the passing of Scott Giguere, an era also passes. Loved and known as “Scotty” by all who knew him, his friendship was unbounded. There’s little that he hasn’t done for so many, that his goodness could not possibly pass with him. His love, laughter and light in his eyes were forthcoming whenever you were greeted by him. From the Wobbly Barn to Charity’s, to the Mountain and down to Route 4, Scott’s presence was an integral thread binding the community together. He was born in Killington on Sept. 29,1964, to Jack Giguere and Phoebe Standish. Scott was predeceased by his father Jack, is survived by his mother Phoebe, son Colin, brother Brett, step-brother Kenan, his partner, Jessica, best friend Benny, step-mother, Teri, ex-wife Nicole, his precious dog Roxy and many other family members and many, many friends. His love for his family, especially for his son, was unbounded. Scott was an avid skier and ski racer, a lifelong resident of Killington. He also enjoyed spending time at family homes on St. John U.S. Virgin Islands, Nantucket and Florida. He attended the Woodstock High School, transferred to
R. Scott Giguere Williston/Northhampton School where he graduated. He went on to St. Lawrence University and graduated with a B.A. His enthusiasm for everything he did was obvious to all close to him in all of his activities, from skiing, hiking, construction, and building, to developing and running Charity’s Restaurant. Scott’s tall, handsome, strapping stature, hearty laugh and winning smile was surpassed only by his kindness, generosity of spirit and undivided attention that he gave to all who knew and loved him. His hospitality was unrivaled, at his home or business. You always felt welcomed by Scotty. There is a deep absence felt by all who knew him, but Scott lives on in his family, friends and the community. Thank you, Scotty, for all you gave us. You will always be deeply loved. A memorial service for Scott was held on Saturday, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. at the Church of Our Savior, Mission Farm, Killington, with a celebration at the Foundry Restaurant in Killington from noon until 2 p.m.
YEAR IN REVIEW • 15B
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
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16B • YEAR
IN REVIEW
The Mountain Times • Dec. 26, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Get ready for a week full of adventure and surprises at The Beast
Complimentary Photos at Killington Peak Let our professional photographer capture your visit to the mountains with sweeping views of Killington Valley as the background. Friday, December 28th and Sunday, December 30th, 9:00 a.m- 2:00 p.m. Glow Tubing Experience our multi-lane, lift-serviced Tubing Park in a completely new way—with GLOW Tubing! Let the neon lights guide you down the hill. Saturday, December 29th, 4:00-7:00 p.m. Ben and Jerry’s Après Ice Cream Social No need to scream for ice cream because we’re giving it away! Friday, December 28th at Ramshead Base Lodge Torch Light Parade Don’t miss this rare sight light up the slopes as we celebrate the holidays. Monday, December 31st, Snowshed at dusk New Year’s Eve Party Dance the night away with JJ Rupp The Wobbly Barn, 10:00 p.m.
More details at killington.com/events