Rutland Magazine Spring 2017

10 YEARS

Building on Community

M AG A Z I N E IN THIS ISSUE Sugaring Fat Bike Travels Pure Water for the World Flip Side Skate Park

S pr ing 2017

Volume 10, Issue 3

The clear leader in Rutland County real estate sales.

T O TA L S A L E S I N D O L L A R S ( A L L P R O P E R T Y T Y P E S /A L L P R I C E P O I N T S ) Source: Trendgraphix data for Rutland County for the time period 1/1/2016 - 12/31/2016.

Laurie Mecier-Brochu 802.417.3614

Christina Gilman 802.417.3605

Karen Heath 802.417.3613

View our

RUTLAND OFFICE

extraordinary

85 N. Main Street Rutland, VT 05701 802. 774.7007

listings on page 9.

FourSeasonsSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Sandi Reiber 802.417.3609

Freddie Ann Bohlig 802.417.3608

Jean Chamberlain 802.417.5744

Susan Bishop 802.417.3607

Spring 2017

1

gmos17rr.pdf

1

1/26/17

9:33 AM

Green Mountain Oral Surgery A Full Scope Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery

Sherilynn Stofka D.D.S. 66 N. Main Street Rutland VT 05701 www.gmosvt.com 802-775-9700 877-566-4667 Implants, Extractions Wisdom Teeth Laser Surgery General Anesthesia and sedation 3-D I-Cat Imaging

CONTENTS Spring 2017

Volume 10, Issue 3 www.RutlandMagazineOnline.com

Now Offering Med Spa Services Including Botox And Juvéderm, Pelevé Skin Tightening, Microdermabrasion, Dermafrac And Laser Facials.

2

Rutland Magazine

SUGARlunchrev.pdf

Editorial

Departments

8 From

This Side of the Mountain Fat Bike Travels Tim Sink

60 K itchen to Table Beach Fare Cassie Horner 64 S tepping into Nature Brandon’s Gateways to Adventure Sue Wetmore

Features

70 T ime Travels The Story of an Old Church St. John’s Episcopal in East Poultney The Rev. William A. Davidson

16 2 56 North Main Street Paul Post 26 Making

Liquid Gold Sugaring in the Green Mountains Caleb Kenna

76 L ucy E. Update Filling in the Gaps Cassie Horner

38 Flip

Side Rutland’s Skateboard Park Adam Sayre

78 S chool News Diversity at MSJ Kim J. Gifford

44 Team

Players Pollinators & Gardeners Mary Ellen Shaw

84 S potlight on Business Park Visions at Rutland Regional Medical Center Paul Post

54 Pure Water for the World Sandra Stillman Gartner

88 A ll About the Arts Art on the Sand Cassie Horner

10 YEARS

Building on Community

M AG A Z I N E IN THIS ISSUE Sugaring Fat Bike Travels Pure Water for the World Flip Side Skate Park

92 W hat’s Happening Ladies’ Night Out Concerts, Poultney Maplefest, and VT Actors’ Rep. Theatre Susan Orzell-Rantanen

Volume 10, Issue 3

FROM THE COVER Fat Bikes in Plymouth photo tim sink Spring 2017-12717.indd 1

9:44:16 AM

Sugar &Spice MAPLE

VERMONT

Serving breakfast & lunch 7am-2pm daily, Breakfast all day

You’ll enjoy our lunch menu!!

CHEF’S SALADS

KIDS MENU TOO!!

SUGAR & SPICE CHEESEBURGER COMPLETE GIFT SHOP OUR OWN MAPLE SYRUP

KIDS MENU

STARTING AT $3.95 Hikers Bikers Vacationers Friends & neighbors....

We look forward to your visit

S p r i n g 2 01 7

Spring 2017

2/6/13

Sugar & Spice Restaurant & Gift Shop Rt. 4 Mendon VT 802-773-7832 www.vtsugarandspice.com

1/30/17 6:58 PM

3

Publishers’ Notes

Find us at www.RutlandMagazineOnline.com

Izzy

December 2004 - November 2016

Super Dog, Super Fast

W

hen I look at the picture of Izzy on the beach last year I am filled with love at the sight of her joy. She was almost 12 years old and it was her first time visiting the ocean. She loved the flat open surfaces that were friendly to her wagon wheels. She embraced the new place with gulls, acres of sand, a cool-off in the salt water waves, lots of dogs and people, and a picnic lunch.

Over and over when I think of her amazing life I think of her joy.

In a sense, Izzy had two lives. For the first five or so years, she could run and jump like most any other dog. We first saw her when she was four weeks old, a tiny little girl, born last, and the only black and tan like her father Reese. We spoke for her immediately, and returned to visit her again when she was six weeks. At eight weeks, we went to bring her home. She was so little, like a mouse, and rode home cuddled in my neck. It was winter and

4

we carried her tucked into our coats when we went for walks or snowshoeing with the other dogs, Maxine and Steamer. She loved to chase balls, rocks and snowballs. She was a strong-minded, affectionate, busy dog, fully engaged with her life.

Then at age five, a disc ruptured on a walk. First one leg failed and then the next. I carried her home, and we rushed her to the vet who sent us on to an orthopedic surgeon in Burlington where Izzy had surgery.

The chances of her walking again were 50/50. We took her for physical therapy, which helped her and helped us care for her. She never did walk and we had her fitted for a set of Doggon’ Wheels. Those wheels gave her back her amazing mobility.

We decided she did not need a leash, but rapidly changed our minds after she raced after a bicyclist with me running after her as fast as I could, unable to catch her until the cyclist

stopped. We laughed at this wonderful spirited girl.

For seven more years Izzy enjoyed life, a second life as I think of it. She went just about everywhere we did: on the frozen lake, long walks, the park, town streets, and even up the mountain in a sled. We loved her dearly and she gave us so much. Even as an almost-12-year-old, she happily received new puppy Jackson into our lives, joining Dora. She rode home with him in the back seat of the car all the way from the Adirondacks, instructing him from the beginning that SHE was in charge.

How we loved her and how we miss her.

Cassie Horner Rutland Magazine

Spring 2017

5

Little Dog, Big Mark

D

og people know that every dog you meet along the path of life leaves an indelible mark. When I think of Izzy I think, little dog—big mark. This one was a total character in her own right from a young age when she would get attention by standing stock still on her hind legs to her last year when she would make her demands for care known to me loud and clear, even at three in the morning.

After she was injured and went in her cart, the surgeon said to us that we would find her life would go on just fine in spite of the disability. And it did. We adapted to the care she needed and willingly gave it.

She was a demanding, arrogant little dog and I was her chief servant!

When she needed something from me she would look at me and toss her head; if that did not work it was accompanied by a series of short barks, or a telepathic communication with her mother that said, “Can you get him moving?”

All along the way there was a lot of fun and amusement in relating to her majesty. She adapted to her cart and would zoom down our dirt road in it.

She loved to chase sticks. In addition to being full of fun she was patient and an easy dog to provide the extra care that was needed.

When we first got Izzy she was about the size of a small rabbit and

6

Volume 10 Issue 3 • Spring 2017

we worried about her and particularly our English Shepherd. She quickly fit into the family and moved through the ranks to become senior dog, a position she occupied well. Her health issues at the end of her life became challenging and we always did the best we could and we were fortunate to have understanding and supportive veterinary care all along the journey with Izzy.

We still miss the little dog and some of the artifacts of her care provide some comfort. Thank you Izzy, for all that you gave us. The little dog that made a big mark on our hearts.

Tim Sink

Published by Mad Dog Ink, L.L.C. www.rutlandmagazineonline.com PO Box 264 Woodstock Vermont 05091 802-672-2411 Publishers: Cassie Horner and Tim Sink Editor: Cassie Horner e-mail: rutlandmag@vermontel.net Advertising: Tim Sink e-mail: rutlandmagads@vermontel.net Design and Art Direction: Jenny Buono e-mail: jenny.buono@gmail.com Rutland Magazine is a quarterly publication of Mad Dog Ink L.L.C. Both Rutland Magazine and Mad Dog Ink L.L.C. are registered trade marks. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. Rutland Magazine and Mad Dog Ink L.L.C. assume no liability for any unsolicited material including but not limited to: manuscripts, photographs, artwork or historical documents.

Rutland Magazine

PROFESSIONAL GRILLS

120 Woodstock Ave Rutland VT 05701 (802) 773-4292 www.bestappliance.biz Monday - Friday 8:00 - 5:30pm Saturdays 9:00 - 3:00pm Spring 2017

7

From This Side of the Mountain

FAT BIKE TRAVELS

BY TIM SINK PHOTOS BY TIM SINK AND CASSIE HORNER

8

R

eaders who have followed us during the ten years of Rutland Magazine know we are passionate about the Vermont outdoors. There is this great gift of parks, lakes, trails and more to get out and enjoy. Fresh air, great scenery, and all kinds of exercise and fun are close at hand. Snowshoeing, kayaking, swimming and biking are all in our repertoire.

What is new in our world are fat bikes. This began last year on Cassie’s birthday in March. She wanted to celebrate in part by trying out the interesting-looking mountain bikes with the big tires.

We were starting to see people riding them on the dirt road we live on, in addition to seeing them in bike shops. Cassie’s sense of adventure fueled us and our curiosity was ignited.

Fat bikes are universally defined as a bike with tires 3.8 inches (97 mm) wide and with a wider frame.

Fat bike versatility allows them to go just about anywhere the rider’s ability can take him or her, and tire pressures can be varied to ride in snow and sand. Recent in development, fat bikes are the fastestgrowing segment of the cycling market. Conventional mountain biking led to the concept of the fat bike to stretch riding opportunities. Prototypes of the fat bike first

Rutland Magazine

Fo u r S e a s o n s S I R .c o m

PRIVATE 11.5 ACRE ESTATE MENDON, VT | $498,000 | MLS#4516250 FREDDIE ANN BOHLIG | 802.353.1804

FABULOUS INVESTMENT PROPERTY RUTLAND CITY, VT | $295,000 | MLS#4479908 CHRISTINA GILMAN | 802.417.3605

CLASSIC FARMHOUSE ON 125 ACRES PITTSFORD, VT | $295,000 | MLS#4613385 JEAN CHAMBERLAIN | 802.417.3610

YOUR VERMONT DREAM HOME! BRIDGEWATER, VT | $275,000 | MLS#4614062 JEAN CHAMBERLAIN | 802.236.5744

BIG BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL RUTLAND CITY, VT | $269,900 | MLS#4614702 FREDDIE ANN BOHLIG | 802.353.1804

EASY ONE LEVEL LIVING RUTLAND CITY, VT | $174,900 | MLS#4506801 KAREN HEATH | 802.417.3613

QUIET COUNTRY ROAD MIDDLETOWN SPRINGS, VT | $160,000 | MLS#4610337 | SUSAN BISHOP | 802.417.3607

SPACIOUS AND EFFICIENT CITY COLONIAL RUTLAND CITY, VT | $150,000 | MLS#4611511 SUSAN BISHOP | 802.417.3607

METICULOUSLY RENOVATED HOME RUTLAND CITY, VT | $160,000 | MLS#4602740 KAREN HEATH | 802.417.3613

CLASSIC RUTLAND COLONIAL RUTLAND CITY, VT | $149,000 | MLS#4487681 SANDI REIBER | 802.417.3609

TRANQUIL CITY LIVING RUTLAND CITY, VT | $155,000 | MLS#4453016 SANDI REIBER | 802.417.3609

PEACEFUL SETTING IRA, VT | $115,000 | MLS#4513239 CHRISTINA GILMAN | 802.417.3605

85 NORTH MAIN STREET | RUTLAND | 802.774.7007 Spring 2017

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

9

appeared in the 1970s and 80s, and significant developments occurred in Alaska and Southern New Mexico where the extremes of snow, ice and, in New Mexico, sand, led to demands that would help keep riders on the saddle and off their feet.

The first modern fat bike as seen today in mass production was the Surly Pugsley introduced in 2005.

Today, Bike Magazine cites 100 fat bike manufacturers with over 25,000 bikes owned by riders. Like other cycling platforms, or any outdoor sport that requires equipment for that matter, there are fat bikes of all types and the only limit is the pocketbook of the buyer. In fact, visiting Killington for a concert last summer, we marveled at the riders of fat bikes who wore all kinds of body armor ranging from chest and back to knees and shins.

The challenge of those Killington trails would certainly warrant that kind of gear. While the bikes are perfect for the aggressive backcountry rider, they are also great for daily riding. In fact, in one blog I read while we were shopping for fat bikes, the writer claimed that you “feel like you are ten again” after your first ride.

Happily, that was our experience.

We rented them for that birthday celebration and rode them in snow and mud at the local state park, and a long ride up a backcountry dirt road. We loved the stability of the bikes; they were 8-speed and shifted smoothly. Fat bikes have a “go anywhere” capability that’s as perfect for Vermont as in Alaska or Colorado. When we returned the rentals we were hooked, and had just missed a snow squall and a freak thunderstorm when we

10

Rutland Magazine

Architects | Planners rcwa.com

THE ART

@rcwaarchtects

RCWA

REPURPOSING

Repurposing an existing home has many beneďŹ tsfrom affordability to functionality.

Before

Before

After

After

RCWA Robert Carl Williams Associates, P.C. ARCHITECTS & LAND PLANNERS Pittsfield, Vermont 05762

Spring 2017

t: 802.746.8917 RCWA.com

11

JONES’’ DOUGHNUTS & BAKERY

Open Wednesday Through Sunday 5am-noon

SPECIAL ORDERS WELCOME 23 West St. Rutland Vt

802-773-7810

carpet | hardwood laminate | vinyl | ceramic

®

Prompt, Professional Installation Always Available 164 U.S. Rte. 4 East Rutland Hours: Mon.- Fri. 9-6 Sat. 9-5 802-747-3314 12

returned them to the dealer. Their great appeal for us lies in the fact that they are another way to some good exercise around the cooler seasons. One example is during early snow when there may not be enough ground cover for snow shoeing but conditions are suited to challenge and fun on a fat bike.

So we began shopping for “fatties” of our own. We were able to order one to accommodate Cassie’s petite stature, and anyone interested will find qualified help at any of the better outfitters as assistance is needed to find the correct fit.

We have had some great rides on our fat bikes, and we look forward to rides on the beach sometime soon and more time on the back roads and trails. We also take them on asphalt and in fields. I could totally see where someone using one for city commuting might want to de-

tour to a trail or the riverside on the ride home. On one ambitious ride in May, Cassie had a tumble off her bike on a trail that resulted in a long walk out and stitches. But trouper that she is, she remains undeterred and loves her bike. The bike fared fine and we did realize that we might want to be a bit less ambitious as neither of us can afford to be hurt.

We get a lot of satisfaction out of just being on the bikes, and enjoying the freedom of it. And they are perfect for everyday rides and will bring out the kid in you. We will continue to ride on the trails, and in the snow, and get the exercise we need. If you’ve been thinking about trying one by all means get out and rent one. Take it from us; you’ll have a lot of fun. You might even feel like you are ten again.

Rutland Magazine

Alderman’s VOTED BEST OF THE BEST Place to BUY a car & SERVICE a car

19 years in a row

65 Windcrest Rd. Rutland 776-5000 www.aldermanschevrolet.com

Presidents Award 14 Year Recipient 33 Seward Rd. Rutland 776-6000 www.aldermanstoyota.com

Alderman’s Visit Our New Facility

4300 Middle Road Rutland 888-827-6208 www.aldermanskia.com

The Result Of a New Concept in Automotive Excellence Created To Better Serve You Spring 2017

13

Vermont Roots

Catamount Specialties of Vermont Fire in the mountains TM 1-888-vtroots

10 Ounce

S PR E A D I T!!

Grandpa’s Stuff Maple Cream

1st Place Vermont Farm Show 2013,2014, 2015

1-888-vtroots

Highland Foods Maple Pepper ®

Granny Blossom’s

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY PAUL POST

W

hen it came time for a new appliance, Killington residents Rob and Joyce Arnebold decided to give the Sears Hometown Store a try.

To reach display models, their eyes were opened to all kinds of home-improvement possibilities. First, they passed by inviting-looking swimming pools, surrounded by palm trees, and then turned left in the flooring and tile center, while admiring the warmth of cozy-looking fireplaces reflecting on highly-polished marble countertops.

It’s all part of the unique experience customers enjoy at

16

256 North, a one-stop Rutland shopping destination that features five different businesses under one roof.

“It’s nice to see Sears back in Rutland,” Joyce Arnebold said. “I was disappointed when they left.”

The Sears Hometown Store is a scaled-down version of the anchor tenant that departed Diamond Run Mall in December 2014. But it offers many of the same products and services, including home appliances, which people are familiar with at large Sears department stores.

Rutland Magazine

“ They can come in here and get everything they want in one stop, and talk to one contractor. Then off they go and we take care of it.”

— MIKE ABATIELL

Spring 2017

17

• • •

Business Insurance Personal Insurance Employee Benefits

Call or visit any of our 7 locations in Vermont!

98 Merchants Row

kinneypike.com

Rutland, VT 05701

800.296.5722

durgin’s The Cleaners at Five Terrill OPEN Tues. - Fri. 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday - 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

Terrill Street, at Junction of Routes 4 & 7 CLOSED MONDAYS 18

It’s co-owned by Rutland entrepreneurs Mike Abatiell and Thomas Petsche, who launched 256 North in October 2015. It’s located in the former Wood Carte building at 256 North Main St. (Route 7). The other firms they run there are Rutland Stove & Fireplace, Resort Spa Services, All in Stone and Abatiello Design Center.

“Basically, we’re selling convenience,” Abatiell said. “We just thought how nice it would be for a customer to come to one place where they could have everything, from construction to a hot tub to a pool.

For stoves, they talk to Tom. If they want to talk about flooring, they talk to me. Other people work in the Sears department.

“It really lessens the load on the customer,” he said. “They can come in here and get everything they want in one stop, and talk to one contractor.

Then off they go and we take care of it.”

Resort Spa Services, for example, offers a full-service contract so that second-home owners at Killington, Okemo or Stratton can hit the slopes without having to worry about balancing hot tub chemicals. “They want to ski, get off the trail, get in the hot tub and relax,” Petsche said. “Service, that’s the key.”

Separately, Abatiell owns a development company that built the Wynnmere and Wynnridge subdivisions on

Killington Avenue and East Pittsford Road, respectively. The firms at 256 North benefit from this trade because they have everything new home buyers are looking for, from bathroom and living room designs to outdoor fireplaces and patio settings.

Except for the Sears Hometown Store, which is new, the businesses at 256 were previously located elsewhere, and run separately by Abatiell and Petsche. After getting acquainted, they decided to join forces in a united venture.

“We’re feeding off each other,” Petsche said. “I’m picking up customers from Mike I would never see otherwise.”

“It was just a good marriage to put the two together,” Abatiell said.

However, their paths to becoming small business owners were quite different. Abatiell, 41, a Rutland native who is married with two children, went to Champlain College in Burlington, transferred to Castleton State and then worked for his father for several years.

“I wanted to buy my first house, so I started getting into the flooring business on weekends and days off,” he said. “Basically I just kind of fell into the business. The business found me more or less. I had an installation crew for five or six years, and then decided to get into the retail part of it.”

In addition to residential customRutland Magazine

Spring 2017

19

U

1st PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING Residential & Commercial Licensed • Fully Insured Repairs, Remodeling & New Construction Boilers & Furnaces Repaired & Replaced Central Air Conditioning

775 • 0652

Craig Billings - Owner Pittsford, VT u1stphc@yahoo.com

Cell 802-342-0286

Mosher

EXCAVATING INC For over 30 years we have provided our excellence and expertise on a wide range of projects.

For Contractors and Homeowners

Stone Retaining Walls Demolition and Excavation Plowing and Sanding Foundations, Blasting, Ledge Excavation Utility Preparation Forest Management Ponds and Septic Systems and Land Clearing Roads, Driveways and Drainage Serving Vermont and New Hampshire Phone: (802)422-3146 Fax (802) 422-9469 www.mosherexcavating.com Let us help get you the best coverage to fit your needs EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY INSURER

LEFT TO RIGHT: Brian Perkins, Associate Agent .

Justin Perkins, Associate Agent Bill Perkins, Principal Agent Vicky Perkins, Asssociate Agent.

Knowing you’re covered is just a call away

PERKINS INSURANCE AGENCY INC.

William J. PERKINS 124 N. Main St. Rutland VT 05701 802-773-3110 20

© 2006 Nationwide Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Nationwide Life Insurance Company, Home office: Columbus Ohio 43215-2220. Nationwide, the Nationwide Frame Mark and On Your Sideare federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

Not Available in all States

Auto

Home

Life

Business

ers, Abatiello Design Center has picked up large commercial carpeting and tile jobs at Hilton Garden Inn hotels in Vermont, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, along with dorms at Middlebury College and the University of Vermont.

Petsche, 31, originally from Wolfboro, New Hampshire, also attended Castleton State, but pursued an entirely different field of study — forensic psychology! He readily admits that it’s of absolutely no use, and has nothing to do with his home improvement career.

“It’s something to fall back on,” Petsche said, smiling.

However, by attending Castleton State, he fell in love with Vermont, its relaxed lifestyle and wide range of year-round recreational opportunities, which prompted him to stay in the Rutland area. “I like to ski and play golf,” Petsche said.

So he knows what Vermont vacation homeowners from New Jersey and Connecticut want, which helps business-wise. “During the winter heating season, people are looking at propane gas stoves,” he said. “In spring, they’re thinking about putting in swimming pools and patios.”

Rutland Stove & Fireplace, Resort Spa Services and All in Stone can meet each of these needs. Putting them in Rutland Magazine

explore expand enjoy

NEW PLACES AND EXPERIENCES YOUR MIND WITH NEW IDEAS THE FULLNESS OF YOUR LIFE

featuring

at The Residence at Otter Creek

• 36 acre campus with meadows and walking paths • 30+ wellness classes weekly • College town living that offers music, dance &

theater performances, art exhibitions, lectures, poetry & literary readings, sporting events and more • Indoor, heated swimming/therapy pool • No large buy-in fees. Flexible monthly leasing.

• 24/7 concierge services provide comfort & security

Cottages, Independent, Assisted and Memory Care

350 Lodge Road • Middlebury, VT 05753 residenceottercreek.com PET FRIENDLY

us Visit ay d To2017 Spring

Connect with Connie Leach or Suzanne Bennett at 802-388-1220 or email cleach@resideneceottercreek.com or sbennett@residenceottercreek.com

OVER 75 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS 12 GRADUATE PROGRAMS 29 NCAA VARSITY TEAMS MORE THAN 40 STUDENT CLUBS RICH CULTURAL OFFERINGS

800-639-8521 CASTLETON.EDU

Experience Castleton.

Dedicated to Healthy Beautiful Smiles

A preventive, restorative, and cosmetic practice using state of the art materials and procedures in a caring environment for 30 years.

Before: The front teeth do not match each other in size, shape, and color.

After: Placing metal free crowns on the mismatched teeth gave the patient a very attractive smile.

Please call 802-775-7440 to make your appointment.

72 Allen Street • Rutland, Vermont 05701 22

one place, along with Abatiello Design Center and the Sears Hometown Store, has boosted sales considerably.

“Business has definitely grown,” Petsche said. “It’s a lot steadier.

We’re getting more foot traffic than our other location. I think the economy is improving and it’s definitely going to be a positive year going into spring. There’s a lot more interest in the products we’re carrying.”

Petsche co-owns All in Stone with another business partner, Ed Pak. This firm specializes in a full line of paving, wall systems and natural stone products for interior and exterior projects ranging from thin veneer fireplaces and office walls to patios and walkways.

Products come in a variety of grades and colors to choose from and the large showroom has extensive layouts to help people envision what their finished project will look like. “We have every type of stone, color and pattern including mosaics,” Pak said.

All in Stone helps clients with the design phase and in most cases will handle installations as well. The only exception is for Cambridge Pavingstones. All in Stone is a distributor for this company. As such, it doesn’t install their products, but will help clients find a local contractor that will.

In addition to new home construction, as consumer confidence grows, existing homeowners are looking at upgrades, too, Abatiell said. “We’re seeing a lot of people coming in saying, ‘I want to do a new kitchen.’

They’re getting geared up for remodeling projects like new bathrooms, too. People are taking what they have and updating it,” he said.

Rutland Magazine

New England’s Premier Bath & Kitchen Center

Rutland Ultimate Bath Sales Associate George Burkett Contact George today about receiving 25% Off your next purchase! gburkett@thegranitegroup.com

UNCOVER THE POSSIBILITIES AT YOUR LOCAL ULTIMATE BATH STORE! Rutland, VT

160 Seward Road, Rutland, VT 05701 (802) 773-1209

Burlington, VT 180 Flynn Avenue, Burlington, VT 05401 (802) 658-2747

Lebanon, NH

262 Mechanic Street, Lebanon NH 03766 (603) 448-1030

ultimatebathstore.com

For a Complete List of our Locations Please Scan Here

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING • 1 •& 2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $385 (including utilities) •

•

Optional Health & Living Services Located off Stratton Road, 1 mile from the hospital

Community Tour every Wednesday at 12:30

Life is Full Here! Call 802.776.1000 5 General Wing Road • Rutland, VT • www.SummitPMG.com

“Or a lot of couples are coming in and saying, ‘You know what? We’re buying ourselves a hot tub this year.

We deserve it.’ And they’re more educated. When they come in here they know what they want. They’ve researched it. Then it’s just a question of, ‘Do you have this? This is what we’re looking for,’” Abatiell continued.

If they can’t find it at 256 North, there’s a good chance it simply isn’t available, at least not in the Rutland area because there’s no place like this one-of-a-kind business in the entire region. “We have people coming from Greenwich, Connecticut, saying they don’t have anything like this,” Petsche said. “I enjoy coming here every day helping people out, designing a nice beautiful interior for them.”

“It’s almost like artwork even though I’m not an artist: helping that person achieve what they’re trying to do,” Abatiell said. “I’m excited to get up the next day and go to work.”

Paul Post is a reporter for The Saratogian newspaper in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. where his work has been recognized in many state and nationwide contests.

He also does extensive freelance writing for a variety of sports, business, regional and agricultural publications and he has written three books.

Take in every piece of the journey and let the All-New Jeep® Compass Trailhawk® open up all of life's possibilities. No matter the moment, let the refinement allure you and the capability astound you.

Coming Spring 2017.

Brileya’s Chrysler Jeep, Inc.

1253 US Route 7 North Rutland VT 05701

802-773-3555 24

www.brileyaschryslerjeep.com Rutland Magazine

Care for her like she cared for you.

Private In-Home Care Program Caring for a loved one who is ill can be highly stressful – whether your family member lives next door or miles away.

CarePlus, offers a wide array of services that allow many

How can we help you?

Call CarePlus at 802.770.1600

people to remain independent, comfortable and safe at home. Whether in need of assistance with personal care, meal preparation or light housekeeping, CarePlus gives you peace of mind.

www.vermontvisitingnurses.org

Making Liquid Gold A Photo Essay on Sugaring in the Green Mountains ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY CALEB KENNA

Maple sugaring at the Russell Farm in Hinesburg, Vermont.

26

Rutland Magazine

E

very spring, sap starts flowing from Vermont maple trees and through a process of evaporation, that liquid is turned into one of the state’s most valuable products – maple syrup. When the nights are freezing and the days begin to thaw the snow, the time is right for maple producers to extract sap from the state’s trees and make Green Mountain “liquid gold.” Each year, I look forward to photographing this classic Vermont tradition, whether on assignment or as a personal project. There is something magical about seeing plumes of steam rising vigorously from a sugarhouse in the blue spring dusk.

Spring 2017

27

Todd Scelza makes maple syrup at Shadow Lake Maples in Barton, Vermont.

Over the past decade, I have photographed maple sugaring operations in Chittenden, Leicester, Hinesburg, Westminster West, Barton and Johnson. Almost ten years ago I photographed Dan Crocker of Sidelands Sugarbush in Westminster West for the New York Times Business Section. Crocker manages a large sugar bush in southern Vermont and uses biofuels to make his syrup. I spent an afternoon with him as he climbed around rugged terrain checking for leaks in his blue tubing network. I stayed until dusk to get one of my favorite shots of him walking into his sugarhouse at twilight.

According to the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association, the history of maple is steeped in legend: a native chief returning to his village after a hunting trip threw his tomahawk into a sugar maple tree.

The spring sun warmed the tree and sap ran down the tomahawk 28

Dan Crocker walks his tap lines in Westminster West, Vermont

Rutland Magazine

Spring 2017

Nulhegan Abenaki maple sugaring, in Barton, Vermont.

29

David Marvin grades syrup at Butternut Mountain Farm in Johnson, Vermont.

Nulhegan Abenaki have a maple sugaring operation in Barton, Vermont.

New Patients Welcome!

OUR WEBSITE Discover direct & comprehensive care for individuals who value a personal relationship with their doctor and the peace of mind that goes with it.

802-770-1807 8 Commons Street Rutland VT 05701

30

802-770-1805 8 Commons Street Rutland VT 05701

into a birch bark container under the tree. Thinking the clear sap was water, the chief’s wife poured it in with some meat she was cooking.

As the water boiled away, a sticky sweet glaze formed on the meat, adding a wonderfully sweet maple flavor to the meal.

In the Northeast Kingdom town of Barton I have photographed two maple operations. As part of a joint project with the Vermont Land Trust and the Vermont Community Foundation, I photographed members of the Nulhegan Abenaki tribe making syrup on lands they now own. Another year I photographed Adam Parke and Todd Scelza at Shadow Lake Maples for a Boston Globe story on how the maple syrup industry is booming and has nearly doubled in the last decade.

Over two seasons, I photographed two very different sugaring operations in Johnson and Hinesburg for a Vermont Land

Rutland Magazine

24-Hour Service 7 days a week.

Largest Locally-Owned Fuel Company Serving Rutland & Bennington Counties Supporting Our Local Community And Customers Spring 2017

31

Is it time to get a second opinion on your financial future?

Have you evaluated all the expenses and fees associated with your investments?

Do you feel your assets are properly protected from risk?

How is your portfolio performance compared to the indexes?

Will your financial plan meet the income needs of your future and lead you toward a comfortable successful retirement?

Let’s keep it easy…

go ahead and call me today to set up a free no-risk private consultation.

Isn’t your peace of mind worth the time?

Call now at 1-888-922-1035

Mount Pleasant Sugarworks, Leicester, Vermont.

HUNTLEY FINANCIAL SERVICES Member SIPC FINRA

PO Box 214 West Rutland Vermont • 802.438.2025 • bldvermont@comcast.net

New Homes, Additions, Renovations Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

Exceeding Expectations Since 1987

A tasty choice in Downtown Rutland!

www.brixwinebarvt.com 32

Trust project called Eyes on the Land, which asked 13 artists to document conserved lands in Vermont for what became an exhibition at the Shelburne Museum.

At Butternut Mountain Farm in Johnson, David Marvin uses hightech methods in a well-tended 300acre sugar bush. Marvin is also one of the largest processors of maple in the country, buying from other producers and processing syrup at a large and modern facility in Morrisville. The Vermont maple industry yields about $15 million in direct sales each year. At the Russell Farm in Hinesburg, sugaring is done the old-fashioned way with a team of draft horses, sap buckets, and firewood that powers the evaporator in the old wooden sugarhouse.

Matriarch Anne Donegan learned how to make syrup as a girl from her father, a dairy farmer, who would doze off in exhaustion as the sap boiled away deep into the early spring evening. The Russell Farm is conserved land with a network of trails open to the public with a working sugarhouse.

www.table24.net Rutland Magazine

Come visit new locatio our the old Wo n at o at 256 Nor d Carte th Main

$200 off with this ad!

Bring in this ad when you visit and receive $200 off the purchase of $1000 or more SINGLE ITEM!

HOT TUBS

SALES • INSTALLATION • CHEMS • SERVICE

SALES • INSTALLATION • CHEMS • SERVICE

STONE

VENEER • WALL • BLUE & FLAGSTONE

STOVES

FIREPLACES KITCHEN

PAVERS

FLOORING APPLIANCES

GAS • WOOD • PELLET • INSTALLATION

PAVING STONES • WALL SYSTMES • FIREPITS

GAS

POOLS

|

PELLET

Spring 2017

|

GAS • WOOD • PELLET • ACCESSORIES

TILE • WOOD • VINYL • CARPET • CORK

COUNTER TOPS • CABINETS

KITCHEN • BATH • TOOLS

WOOD

w w w. 2Window 56northmain.com | 802.786.0747 Treatments Cabinets

33

For Independent

& Assisted Living

The Gables and The Meadows at East Mountain combine to form the perfect retirement community.

As there may be a waitlist for immediate residency, join a Gables or Meadows priority list now to secure options for the future.

For more information or a tour, call Randi Cohn at 802-770-5275 or visit us online.

1 Gables Place • Rutland, VT www.thegablesvt.com

34

157 Heritage Hill Place • Rutland, VT www.themeadowsvt.com

At the Russell Farm in Hinesburg, Vermont, maple sugaring is done with horses and sap buckets.

Closer to home in Brandon, I have photographed two local sugar makers as personal self-assignments. Bob Baird has been sugaring since he was a child boiling sap on the kitchen stove. Today he operates the 560-acre Baird Farm in North Chittenden and has 11,000 taps and sugars with his wife Bonnie, daughter Jenna and her partner Jacob. “It’s been kind of a tradition on the farm for nearly a hundred years,” he tells me. “The biggest change over the years has been that it’s become more of a business. It used to be more about subsistence farming and it was very inefficient; today the emphasis is on energy efficiency. My grandmother could gather and boil maybe a hundred buckets herself; it was very labor intensive. Today it’s much more efficient with tubing and reverse osmosis machines. It all gets pumped by gravity in the tubes and we don’t even handle the sap. I’ve been doing it for over forty years and I enjoy it now more than I ever did. I’ve always enjoyed working outside. Maple is a unique product you can sell over the world.

It’s one of the very few wild crops Rutland Magazine

º New Construction Plumbing and Heating Installation

º Furnace and Boiler Installation and Repair The best in current technology

The latest contemporary trends

º Emergency Upgrades º Bathroom and Kitchen Upgrades

you can buy at a store.”

Andy and Donna Hutchison operate Mount Pleasant Sugarworks in Leicester and have about 4,000 taps on 100 acres. Hutchison grew up in Bakersfield, Vermont and helped sugar with neighbors there but has been sugaring seriously since 1989.

Hutchison is also a professional forester. About one in four trees in Vermont is a maple. “Because I am a forester, I have a heightened awareness of tree health and the effects of sugaring on trees,” he says.

“I tend to be more conservative in tapping my trees than others. The trees are our resource and we need to keep them growing healthily. I enjoy managing our own land and acreage.” Ask what attracts Hutchison to sugaring and he gives an answer he says he often tells visitors to his sugarhouse, “Little boys like to play with fire and water, so when we grow up, we can justify that by sugaring.”

When winter slowly gives way to spring, chances are I’ll be out in some Vermont sugar bush trying to make photos that visually distill the essence of this quintessential Vermont tradition.

Spring 2017

PART OF THE RUTLAND COMMUNITY FOR OVER 30 YEARS

MARK CHRISTIE, OWNER LICENSED AND INSURED

169 NORTH CHURCH ST RUTLAND VT 802-773-3607

35

Caleb Kenna is a photographer based in Brandon, Vermont. He grew up in Vermont and has worked as a freelance photographer for The New York Times, Boston Globe, National Geographic, The Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Outside, Men’s Journal, Smithsonian, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Frommer’s, Vermont Life, Vermont Land Trust, Seven Days and Yankee Magazine.

Your future is just around the corner.

So are we.

Specializing in Investments and Financial Planning

Nick Strom-Olsen, Owner/Founder Melissa Bartlett, Financial Planning Assistant

Now with two locations: Manchester Center, VT 54 Highland Avenue Manchester Center, VT 05255

PHONE: (802) 367-3958

Rutland, VT 87 N. Main Street Rutland, VT 05701

PHONE: (802) 772-7945

vtretirementplanners.com Your Local Resource for Investment and Financial Planning Services.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC Investment advice offered through Private Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor.

Private Advisor Group and Vermont Retirement Planners, LLC are separate entities from LPL Financial

Danby, Vermont Baird Farm sugarhouse in Chittenden, Vermont.

VERMONT MAPLE OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND On Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26, sugarmakers across Vermont open their operations to the public and share the process of producing the state’s signature product. Visitors can see how maple syrup is created by boiling down the sap which has been gathered from the sugar maple trees in local sugar bushes. Samples of fresh syrup are available to taste, along with value-added goodies such as maple fudge and candy, and educational information on the grading and marketing of syrup is shared by the people who understand the laborintensive process. For information on maple producers in Rutland County and environs who are participating visit www. vermontmaple.org close to the date.

36

Rutland Magazine

If you knew about our firsts for Vermont, you’d be doing a lot more of this.

We are a technologically advanced practice that brought to Vermont the first...

• Prexion Cone Beam Ct (3-Dimensional X-Ray System) • Cerec Cad Cam Omnicam (Single Visit Crowns) • l-PRF Intralock System (Accelerated Wound Healing)

• Solea CO2 Laser (Injection Free Drilless Dentistry) • Initial adopter of Millennium Laser (Heal and Regenerate Periodontal Attachment and Bone) • ICOI Diplomate (International Congress of Oral Implantologists)

Lynn H. DuBoff, DMD (Periodontist) Steven C. DuBoff, DMD, DICOI

Rutland, VT • 802.773.1393 • duboffdentistry.com • laserperiovermont.com

Your Wellness, Naturally.

Take a healthy break – WALK the wide paved ¼ mile loop, stop at the five EXERCISE stations, or just RELAX in the beautiful gardens and watch the flowers begin to bloom.

Inside and outside, Rutland Regional is dedicated to promoting wellness for our community.

Spring 2017

37

FLiP SiDE 38

Rutland Magazine

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY ADAM SAYRE

D

riving down the back streets of Rutland, past the rows and rows of suburbia that seem out of place in this brave little rural state, you start to see stickers on the street signs that say “Spitfire”, “Darkside”, and “Flip Side”. You cross over East Creek and on the other side of the bridge is a sign canted over a little more than it should with a sticker on it that says “Flip Side” and an arrow pointing down Preville Avenue. As the street makes a sharp bend, a metal industrial building appears, nestled towards the back of a parking lot with the wilderness beyond it and the words “Giorgetti Arena” on the front of the building. Looking upwards, you see the words “Flip Side Skate Park” on a giant cooling system and you know you are in the right place.

Pulling back on the brown metal door, the first thing you notice is a photomural of past events and happy memories and you can sense that there is a strong community bond within these metal walls. The front desk attendant greets you like an old friend, then you work your way past a glass case full of fresh skate products and a wall of new decks, a row of red swivel chairs with sweaty skaters taking a break, past the old 50-inch TV covered in skate stickers with a skate flick playing on a faded screen, until you finally reach the blue doors that let you into one of the best indoor skate parks in the country. Once inside, the dasher boards of the Giorgetti Arena encompass all different kinds of wooden ramps: giant roll-ins, a mini ramp with a spine, a vert wall that reaches over 13 feet high, and a street section straight out of any skater’s dreams.

Spring 2017

39

The man at the helm of the Flip Side ship is Ian Krik, a New Hampshire native who has been in the Vermont community for many years coaching snowboarding at Black River High School, Okemo Mountain School and Stratton Mountain School, and who now runs a snowboarding program called Krik’s Camp. He has been skateboarding and snowboarding for over 20 years now and says that the sports have had a great impact on his life, and getting to share it with others in the Rutland community has been a great experience.

Flip Side has been at the Giorgetti Arena for over 10 years now but before it was known as Flip Side it had a different name—Zero Gravity. Zero Gravity was in the Giorgetti Arena for over 15 years and was known as one of the best 40

destinations for skateboarding in the country. When Zero Gravity decided to move to New Hampshire in order to expand their operation, the skaters in Rutland knew that there was going to be a big piece of their community missing.

When the skaters went to the City of Rutland looking for help, they were told that the city was willing to put in a couple of ramps to fill the void. But the skateboarding community was not going to settle for just a couple of ramps when they knew that a complete skate park was such an asset to the community. So people got together, started committees, raised money, and packed people out the doors at town meetings. The city responded and, working with the community, Flip Side skate park was born. When the park first opened all it had was seven

ramps donated by the town of Killington. It wasn’t much—nowhere near what Zero Gravity had—but Flip Side had an ace up their sleeve in Chris Hurka.

Hurka, who had built the ramps for Zero Gravity, stayed behind and helped the community rebuild what once was. With input from the skaters they started to draw up plans and build an even better skate park from scratch. A few summers later the park was up to snuff and the community once again had one of the best skate parks in the country.

Flip Side is a seasonal park and is overseen by the Rutland City Recreation and Parks Department.

The park is open from mid May until mid September, Wednesday through Sunday. The park includes a skate shop so guests can purchase skateboards and other products Rutland Magazine

IT MAY SEEM OUT OF PLACE TO HAVE ONE OF THE BEST SKATE PARKS IN THE COUNTRY HERE IN RUTLAND, BUT REALLY IT MAKES PERFECT SENSE.

Spring 2017

41

should the need—or maybe just the want—arise. One of the unique features of Flip Side is the lack of session times. A $10 fee allows you to skate all day, which is a great relief for skaters from out of town just showing up and wanting to skate.

For most of the summer months Flip Side offers summer camps for kids. They offer camps for beginners, a camp for kids 10 and under, an all-girls camp, a BMX camp, an intermediate camp and a travel camp where kids travel all around New England from park to park, improving their skills and making friends along the way. The camps that get the most attention are the 10 and under and the all-girls camp, Krik says. “The success of the 10 and under camp is we are dealing with kids in the same age group and skill level and they are not intimidated by older skaters.”

Gavin, a six-year-old camper from Chittenden, says, “The skate coaches are really nice and helpful, they help me never give up and just keep trying.”

The all-girls camp, which Krik says is always a blast, is also hugely successful. “Girls can always skate with guys, that is never an issue, but we find when we put them together and build a girls’ camp they really feed off of each other, and it also gets a lot of girls who skate in the community involved with the camp helping out, being coaches and guest skaters, and the campers love it.”

These skate camps have been a part of this community for over 20 years and some of the campers themselves have grown up and have stayed involved with the program. Nico Esposito, a 15-year-old from Rutland who has been a camper and is now a skate coach, says, “This place has 42

taught me a lot of good life lessons, and has had a very positive impact on my life, and now that I am a coach here I get to pass that on and foster the next generation of skaters.”

Because Flip Side is located in the Giorgetti Arena it can only run in the summer months. What this community needs is a permanent home for Flip Side so people can have a safe place to grow as individuals and strengthen the Rutland community. Some people may think that the birth of a world-class skate park like this could only really happen near a major city. But it happened in the back streets of

Rutland, a place where a community was born when people got involved with local issues.

It may seem out of place to have one of the best skate parks in the country here in Rutland, but really it makes perfect sense. Rugged individualism and being able to work together is what puts Rutland, Vermont, and Flip Side in a class of their own.

Adam Sayre is the Production Coordinator at LPCTV in Ludlow and has been in the film industry for 9 years. Adam has been a life-long skateboarder and thinks every day you’re pushing is a good day.

Rutland Magazine

Snow Plowing and Removal Excavation Bulldozing Top Soil Shur-pac Driveway Repair Parking Lot Sweeping Trucking Bucket Loaders Skid Steer Loaders Water Lines Septic Systems New Home Excavation Site Work Demolition Tree and Stump Removal Retaining Walls Ponds Haz Mat Certified Drainage Work Trailer Rentals and More

FOR 3 GENERATIONS WE HAVE SPECIALIZED IN ALL ASPECTS OF EXCAVATION. West Rutland, Vermont • 802.438.5040 • fabianearthmoving.com Serving All Of Vermont And Parts of New York

• NAWT CERTIFIED SEPTIC INSPECTORS • DRAIN CLEANING • SEPTIC PUMPING • PORTABLE TOILETS

438-5722

• GOULDS FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIAN • TV PIPE INSPECTION • PUMP STATION REPAIRS & INSTALLATION

JET VAC TRUCK SERVICES RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

WE SELL SEPTIC TANK RISERS!

157 QUALITY LANE RUTLAND 802-775-0220 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS 802-438-5722 Spring 2017

43

As pretty as butterflies are, they are not the best pollinators because of their body structure. However, they do pick up some pollen as they visit the garden flowers. In this photo, a swallowtail frequents the phlox.

44

Rutland Magazine

BY MARY ELLEN SHAW PHOTOS BY CASSIE HORNER AND TIM SINK

T

he way nature works always fascinates me. Anyone can put a plant in the ground, give it some water and consider it an accomplishment when it blossoms. But the care we give our plants is not the sole reason for their success. For instance, the yellow flower of a zucchini plant needs more than sun and water in order for it to not simply fall off the vine and be done. Pollination of its yellow flower assures that it will turn into a zucchini as summer progresses. My husband, Peter, and I are grateful for that outcome. I often sauté it as part of our dinner and make it into a delicious bread. Researching this article reminded me that pollination and I are “team players” and each of us has a role in the success of my garden.

What exactly is pollination? Let’s take a trip back to science class and see if this sounds familiar. It is defined as the transfer of pollen grains from the male anther of the stamen to the female stigma of the pistil.

Sound familiar, or did the facts fade away a little over the years? They did for me!

While the scientific process may be more technical than we care to explore, the results are appreciated as our palates savor delicious foods and beautiful flowers grace our gardens.

When we hear the word “flower” a geranium or a daisy might come to mind. But in the pollination world, the word can also refer to the flower on such things as a zucchini or tomato plant, a berry bush, an apple tree and countless other plants, bushes and trees.

Spring 2017

45

Bees visit flowers such as this liatris in search of both pollen and nectar. The pollen helps them to produce eggs and is also fed to their young. As the birds and the bees flit from flower to flower the pollen falls off their bodies and pollination is underway.

So, how do flowers get pollinated?

There are several ways of accomplishing that. “The birds and the bees” are part of that process. Among the bird pollinators, the hummingbirds are my favorite to watch. They visit my gardens frequently and don’t seem concerned that I am sitting quite close by. They rub their foreheads against the stamens and pistils of a flower as they feed on nectar. Bees visit flowers in search of both pollen and nectar.

46

The pollen helps them to produce eggs and is also fed to their young. As the birds and the bees flit from flower to flower the pollen falls off their bodies and pollination is underway. But the birds and the bees are not the only ones spreading pollen around. They have some co-conspirators when doing that task. They are joined by bats, beetles, butterflies, flies, and moths, plus various other insects and even the wind.

So while our goal might be a beautiful garden, the birds, bees and other pollinators look at it from a different perspective. Bottom line…it’s a winwin for everyone!

What attracts pollinators? Brightly colored flowers with hues of red, yellow and orange are favorites of the birds. Those with a tubular shape make it easier for them to put their bills into the flower and pull out the nectar. A strong supporting flower Rutland Magazine

makes perching easier. Bees prefer wide flowers like daisies, cone flowers and of course, bee balm. Selecting flowers that pollinators find appealing means more productivity in your vegetable garden. As pretty as butterflies are, they are not the best pollinators because of their body structure. However, they do pick up some pollen as they visit brightly colored flowers. There is also a “night shift� in the pollination world when bats visit larger, light-colored flowers Spring 2017

Achieving Excellence in Custom Construction

CONSTRUCTION INC 335 Killington Rd. Killington VT 05751.802.773.4189

richardmooreconstruction.com 47

Solar Solutions for the Informed Customer 24 Center St., Rut land VT

www.samesunvt.com

Shop. Eat. Be Entertained.

•unique shops •locally-owned restaurants,cafés and pubs •world-class performing arts venue • interactive children’s museum • galleries and murals • largest year-round, farmers’ market in Vermont • exciting annual events • minutes from beautiful lakes, hiking & skiing

rutlanddowntown.com

59 Center St. Downtown Rutland 802-773-3377 timcojewelers.com

2 Center St., Suite 1 Rutland, VT 05701 802.855.8078 www.phoenixbooks.biz

Innovative Beautiful Timeless

802.775.8080

www.pyramidvt.com

Salt Cave • Massage Sound & Light Room Fitness • Yoga Wellness Marketplace

120 Merchants Row Rutland, Vermont

It is logical to think that the ants that busily clamber on peony buds are pollinators. In fact, it is believed that the insects are attracted to the small amount of nectar produced by certain varieties of peonies and the ants thus help open the buds.

Pollination

BY MARY ELLEN SHAW

in the hours of dusk and evening.

Two of the most popular plants to grow in our gardens are good examples of differences in pollination.

On a zucchini there are separate male and female flowers on the same plant.

The male blossoms appear about 10 days before the female blossoms and this attracts bees. When the female blossoms appear it means your plant needs a visit from a pollinator as it is

50

ready to produce fruit. On a tomato plant one individual flower contains both the male and female parts so pollination occurs within this one flower.

If you don’t want to take a chance on a pollinator visiting at the proper time, you can hand-pollinate such plants as cucumbers, pumpkins and zucchini by taking a cotton swab, twirling it around the male blossom and then putting the swab against the

stigma of the female. So how can you tell the male from the female flower?

In all cases the plant that has a swollen base (ovule) is the female. This looks like a tiny version of the “fruit” you are growing. Yes, the botany world considers several items as “fruits” that grocery stores sell in the “veggie” section. Think about that the next time you shop for cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkins and tomatoes!

What is considered a fruit and what is considered a vegetable could be an article in itself!

How does pollination affect the strawberries, raspberries and blueberries that we all look forward to each summer? All of these berries begin as flowers. If they don’t get sufficient pollen the berries will be small and misshapen. Having a flower garden nearby will attract bees and other insects to spread the pollen around. This will mean bigger and better berries. I grow all three berries Rutland Magazine

on a small scale in my gardens and while the blueberries always seem to do well there have been seasons when the raspberries have not been as fat and juicy as previous seasons.

Perhaps it’s time to add another flower garden close to the raspberry patch. After all, you can never have too many flowers!

Vermont is known for its wonderful apples. The beautiful flowers we see on apple trees in the spring require pollination so we can bite into a nice juicy apple in the fall. When one of two apple trees in our yard had to be taken down due to damage I wondered if the remaining one would produce apples. I mentioned this to Rutland City Forester, Dave Schneider, and he told me that the city crab apple trees which are about 50 feet away would allow pollination of the remaining tree. We thanked Mother Nature for this “back-up plan” as we enjoyed an apple pie in October!

Pollination is also the reason we have seeds to sow in our gardens.

Nothing speaks of spring more than the sight of all those seed packets!

If pollination had not occurred, the seeds would not have been produced.

In order for this to happen the ovules in seed plants are fertilized by pollen and then they mature and become seeds.

In case you want to try saving your own seeds you should look for seed packets that say “heirloom” or “open pollinated”. If the packets say “hybrid” you will likely get different characteristics than you are trying to duplicate.

The pollination process can be a complex one for a recreational gardener like me to thoroughly understand. But just having a basic knowledge of the process generates my respect for this “plan” that assures future flowers, fruits, veggies and trees.

So whether you are planting a flower or vegetable garden, a tree or a flowering bush, you and pollination Spring 2017

allen pond dental Healthy Smile.

Healthy Heart.

An eco-friendly dental practice with an emphasis on your overall health.

By maintaining a healthy mouth, your chance of illness is significantly reduced. Now that is something you and your family can smile about.

Allen Pond Dental is a preventive and restorative dental practice devoted to restoring your mouth to optimal comfort, function, and aesthetics using state-of-the-art procedures. Our goal is to treat patients who care about their health, retaining their natural teeth for as long as possible.

Joyce A. Hottenstein, D.M.D., invites you to learn how you can feel good about caring for your mouth while eco-friendly Allen Pond Dental cares for the environment.

Comprehensive Family Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry One Visit Metal-Free Restorations • TMD Jaw Pain • Whitening Member of Eco-Dentistry Association that combines stewardship of client health with stewardship of planetary health.

Since 1941

Celebrating 75 Years

Home • Farm • Auto • Business

oss INSURANCE

455 West Street Rutland VT 775-4477

and COMPANY

www.rossinsuranceandco.com 51

clockwise from top: Bees work the Chelone lyonii “Hot Lips” or pink turtlehead; a honeybee is attracted to the deep red poppy flower; an insect perches on the double blossom of a daffodil.

will be partners in achieving success.

Your role is to choose the proper plants, put them in the correct location and water them as required.

Once the pollinators pay a visit success will soon follow.

Happy gardening!

Mary Ellen Shaw is a graduate of Trinity College. She is the author of the book, “Kittenhood 101,” and is also a freelance writer for several publications.

52

Rutland Magazine

Spring 2017

53

PURE Wa t e r for the

Wo r ld

BY SANDRA STILLMAN GARTNER

O

ver 20 years ago, Peter Abell, a dentist from Brattleboro, Vermont, traveled to a small village in El Salvador to provide medical services. After returning to Vermont he vowed to make a difference in the poor living conditions he encountered. Abell gathered his colleagues from the local Rotary Club and returned to Central America in order to bring potable water solutions to the people.

The movement was successful and outgrew the Rotary’s capacity to handle the needs. In 1999, Pure Water for the World, a 501c3 organization, was created to carry out this crucial humanitarian effort. Pure Water for the World (PWW) is now based in Rutland, Vermont and is led

by Carolyn Meub, executive director. “Our mission is dedicated to improving the health and livelihood of children and families living in underserved communities in Central

54

Rutland Magazine

Boys in Trojes, Honduras have a good time washing their hands. photo James Barker

Spring 2017

55

A girl in Honduras collects water. photo James Barker

A woman in Bouda Chita, Haiti collects water. photo Tony Gilmore 56

America and the Caribbean,” Meub said. “Pure Water provides effective tools and education to establish sustainable safe water, hygiene and sanitation solutions. Awareness is the first step toward action.”

To help promote the vision and mission of PWW, the organization is presenting “The Art of Water Project”. The event will feature unique public art installations, community film screenings and dialogues to help people in the Rutland area better understand and respond to issues of

water justice and scarcity at home and worldwide.

Co-chairs for the spring event are Meub, Barbara Carris and Sandy Gartner. Communities will come together to discuss water-access issues through the screenings of the Lake Champlain-focused call-to-action documentary, What’s Your Watermark? and the eco-thriller, Elixir, an official selection of the 2015 New York Filmmakers Film Festival.

Carris, who was a board member of PWW for five years, said, “Although Rutland Magazine

Staff member Ostilio teaches a workshop in hygiene in Trojes, Honduras. photo James Barker

our clients aren’t here, it’s important to bring the story of water issues to our community. I believe in engaging people through art and not just lectures.” To accomplish that goal, Carris will bring sculptor Steve Schaum’s water-related work for an exhibit in Rutland.

The second artist to participate is sculptor Peter Lundberg of Bomoseen. He travels all over the world and met his wife in China. He creates small bronze sculptures and watercolors. The Art of Water Project will Spring 2017

also coincide with the annual World Water Day, which will be held on March 22 this year.

Carris and her husband Bill, who now serves as a board member for PWW, traveled to Haiti for a twoweek trip several years ago. They wanted to see the needs of the country and chose to be involved from the ground level. “Haiti is much more than just its’ poverty,” Barbara said.

“With the right safe hygiene training, they can begin to re-grow their economy and help to ensure better lives for themselves and their children.”

Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Matthew in fall 2016, PWW worked tirelessly to help improve the damaged areas and to get clean water and safe training to affected families.

PWW also collaborated with other organizations to increase their impact.

The “global truth” statistics in 2015 included 700 million people who lacked access to safe drinking water, 2.5 billion people who lacked adequate sanitation and the 3.4 million people who die every year from diseases caused by drinking contaminated water. Sadly, every 40 seconds a child dies from a water-related illness.

Those who live in developed countries rarely have to think about drinking safe water from their taps.

Vermont and other states across the country have challenges that must be acknowledged and improved. However, most of the United States population uses potable water for cooking, cleaning, showering, washing cars, watering gardens and playing.

PWW primarily works with communities in Haiti and Honduras. Sabatiel, a father of two, living in a rural area in Trojes, Honduras, didn’t know about water contamination or ways to avoid it. His children were sick and missing school, and required many hospital stays. “We just don’t have the understanding to do this by ourselves, or the money to get water filters,” he said. “We don’t even have the money to treat people when they are sick. So at the base of all of this is poverty.”

Meub added, “In partnership with Pure Water for the World, Sabatiel and the families in his community are able to help their children and teach them about the necessity of safe water. Their lives are positively changed forever.”

PWW and its partners also work in El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua.

Solutions that help to transform villages include point-of-use biosand water filters, sanitation systems and parasite treatments. PWW and its collaborators also provide education through community-wide hygiene 57

A girl in Haiti draws water. photo James Barker

training, community health agents and consistent follow-ups. PWW aligns itself with leaders in the Caribbean and Central America who provide WASH services (water, sanitation and hygiene training and consulting teams).

Ninety percent of the PWW staff is native to the countries and communities they serve. Beneficiaries fully participate, from collaborative planning, to small investments, to sweat equity and maintenance. Meub observed, “We serve the most rural, 58

remote communities, where there are high incidences of waterborne diseases and little to no government assistance or aid.”

PWW also gives people the opportunity to go on trips to the countries they help. Bryan Miller, a PWW trip volunteer and former board member, went on a trip to Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. “I was there one week after the earthquake and know the difficulties the Haitians face,” Miller said. “It was their grit, determination and assistance that shepherd-

ed them through once again.”

Trip dates available for volunteers include: Honduras, April 23 -29, June 18-24 and October 15-21, 2017. The 2017 Haiti dates will soon be announced.

“The Art of Water Project” will be open to the public. Additional events will be announced at a later date.

“There will be a day when future generations will not know the pain, suffering and struggle of waterborne illnesses,” Meub said. For more information on how you can get involved with PWW or for details about the Rutland Magazine

Heating Oil • Kerosene • Diesel Fuel At Johnson Energy our priority has been to serve our customers with high quality service for over 50 years.

Here is what our customers have to say: “I own an apartment house in the City of Rutland that was built in 1796. When you are in an old building and you have tenants that depend on you, you need services from people you can really trust. Originally I did business with Tom Johnson’s father Francis, and I am still with Johnson Energy today. I get to deal with local people that I have come to know well. And I can say that anytime there is a service call, even in the middle of the night, I have never waited more than an hour. The service technician was an angel and the work is done immaculately.”

Flossie Morton, Rutland City. Johnson Energy customer for 37 years.

“I have done business with Johnson Energy for many years and I depend on the excellent service I have come to expect. Any issues I have are addressed quickly.

I get a quick response if I need them. Johnson Energy is run by people I know who have become like friends to me. And I know I will get straight answers on pricing.”

Carl Wener, West Rutland, Johnson Energy customer for 45 years.

“Call Us and Experience the Johnson Energy Difference.”

Locally owned since 1963 573 Business Route 4 Center Rutland VT 05736 802-773-4183 www.johnsonenergy.net

Your Warmth Is Our Business fundraiser, please contact Carolyn Meub at: carolyn.meub@purewaterfortheworld.org or www.purewaterfortheworld.org A former editorial assistant at Glamour Magazine, Sandra Stillman Gartner’s articles have been published in such periodicals as Lady’s Circle and Yankee.

She is a published poet and screenplay writer, and is one of three producing directors of Vermont Actors’ Repertory Theatre and performs on stage, television and in film.

Spring 2017

Come Grow With Us Make The Bank of Bennington Your Financial Business Partner Talk to V.P. and Senior Commercial Lender Tim Collins. He has the local knowledge and expertise to help you grow your business.

Your money stays here, works here, p 802-774-5017 | c 802-558-2052 | 110 Merchants Row TheBankof Bennington.com and that makes a difference.

59

Kitchen to Table

BEACH FA R E ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY CASSIE HORNER

S

ome meals stand out. Long past the last bite, the memory of the taste, the presentation, the setting lingers. It is a bond with people we shared it with, leading to conversations that begin, ‘Do you remember when?”

60

Rutland Magazine

Ocean views make a delicious meal taste even better.

Spring 2017

61

Last spring, my husband Tim and I spent a few days in a house in Rye, New Hampshire. The sight and sound of the ocean was right in front of us, and we enjoyed long beach walks with the dogs and nights of listening to the waves.

One of the highlights involved our taste buds and tummies thanks to a scrumptious scallop dish Tim made. Adding to the delight was the fact that we ate on the deck overlooking the Atlantic.

The meal came about by chance when, on our way back from the historic Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, we passed a fish market. It is in a no-frills building by the road. We had been talking about eating seafood, so pulled in to check out the place. The cases held all manner of glistening, fresh manna from the sea, including swordfish, cod, haddock, clams, and what we had in mind, scallops. These plump specimens were fresh-caught just up the shore in Maine. We bought a pound, along with some cluster tomatoes and a lemon. Those ingredients with a box of pasta, some olive oil and salt and pepper, and asparagus were all we needed for one of the best meals of our lives.

Tim attended New England Culinary School so the food preparation was in good hands. He washed the scallops and removed the feet, the little appendages that would be tough when cooked. After patting the scallops dry, he set them aside.

Next, he cut up the tomatoes and sautéed them in a pan with olive oil, cooking them until the sweet flavor intensified as the skin shriveled.

Meanwhile, the pasta was cooking and ready to be drained. The asparagus was ready to be sautéed.

Then he heated olive oil in a sauté pan, and added the scallops, sautéing them until they were a golden brown and released their liquor, 62

after which he added the tomatoes.

Before serving, he seasoned the dish with salt and pepper.

I was in charge of setting the table on the deck. With a setting like that of warm spring air and ocean view, it didn’t take much more than silverware, napkins and big glasses of seltzer.

Pretty soon, I was seated, waiting for the moment when the Chef appeared with two elegant white plates on which were displayed scallops and tomatoes over pasta with the colorful green of asparagus.

“Bon Appetit!” he exclaimed with a proud smile. And indeed, good eating was exactly what it was!

Rutland Magazine

Signature Kraftmaid Cabinetry.

Quality. Service. That is the Rotella difference.

Building customers for life since 1959

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE rotellakitchenandbath.com 325 West Street | Rutland. VT 05701 802-773-3100

Spring 2017

7am-5pm | Monday-Friday 8 am-3pm | Saturday

63

stepping into nature

BRANDON’S GATEWAYS TO ADVENTURE

BY SUE WETMORE

top to bottom Black-throated blue warbler; indigo bunting; and scarlet tanager photos Sue Wetmore 64

Rutland Magazine

Sue Wetmore looks for birds on Union Street. photos Tim Sink

L

ocated in the west-central part of the state, is one of Vermont’s quintessential small towns. The usually placid Neshobe River flows through the center of town. Five years ago the rains from Tropical Storm Irene turned this river into a raging torrent that swept through Brandon, causing major damage to downtown infrastructure. Local folks rallied round and assisted in helping those affected by this disaster, putting the downtown back together again in short order.

This same community spirit has once again come together, but this time for a much happier reason.

Brandon has weathered many changes of businesses over the years, but the one constant has been tourism.

From early times folks have made our town and surrounding areas a vacation destination.

A year ago the Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce, under President Elizabeth Gregorek and Executive Director Bernie Carr, won-

Spring 2017

65

dered what could further enhance experiences of Brandon for residents and visitors alike. They asked what Brandon had to offer that would make people want to spend time here and explore the area. In other words, what makes Brandon special, and how could we exploit special characteristics to make this a better place to live, work, play, and visit?

In February 2015 Chamber board member Gary Meffe volunteered to head up a program to identify the best that the Brandon area has to offer. Meffe formed a committee to develop a program they called “Brandon’s Gateways to Adventure,” a series of guides to activities that residents and visitors could use to learn about and recreate in and around town. This committee consisted of many locals with specific expertise in each adventure. After multiple meetings and much planning over more than a year, 11 areas were defined that would constitute Brandon’s Gateway’s to Adventure.

Each adventure echoed the motto of Brandon: “Unhurried, Unspoiled and Unforgettable,” and fell into one of those categories.

Under “Unhurried” we have The Arts and Brandon Homespun, a celebration of fibers and fabrics. A host of adventures celebrate our “Unspoiled” character, including Birding, Biking (both Mountain and Road), Hiking, Skiing (both Cross Country and Backcountry), and Walking/ Running tours. Our “Unforgettable” aspects are reflected in our History and Architecture adventures.

Printed guides for all 11 Gateways are now available at the Brandon Visitors’ Center, Brandon Town Office, and Brandon Free Public Library, as well as at various businesses, and inns in and around town.

The cost of producing these Gateways to Adventure Guides was underwritten by businesses, caring individuals, and Brandon’s Economic Development Fund. Countless hours and much talent were also donated by each person responsible for his 66

Nelson’s sparrow is an uncommon fall visitor to the Pomainville Wildlife Management Area along Route 7. top photo Sue Wetmore bottom photo Tim Sink

or her area of interest and expertise.

And local graphic artist designer Courtney Satz was available to turn our ideas into beautiful products.

Because we now live in a world of electronic communication devices, we also were able to develop a fantastic website. Rebecca and Mark Zelis donated their time and talents to create and host an interactive website that contains much more information than could be included on printed guides. The online site is gatewaystobrandon.com Since my passion is birding I was tapped to produce the birding guide.

Birding in and around Brandon has given me all the best places in which to find a wide variety of birds.

The fact that we have a diversity of habitats which offer many opportuni-

ties to see a variety of species makes Brandon a great place for both the beginner or advanced birder.

Just west of town one can explore the extensive Brandon Swamps by walking along the Long and Short Swamp Roads. This area is also one of the few spots in Vermont that you can hear the repetitive call of a whip-poorwill. Arriving at dusk, on a moonlight night, you will also be treated to the nuptial flights of woodcock and snipe.

Veery and hermit thrush, our state bird, sing their last songs of the day.

Barred owls can be heard asking “who cooks for you?” They also nest here as do a variety of woodland species.

An early morning walk in this same area can reward the birder with a variety of warblers, thrushes, and flycatchers. The random tapping of the Rutland Magazine

MY MOTHER PROBABLY NEVER HEARD the word "Brand" and surely never endeavored to attain such a thing, whatever it was. She so disliked technology that when she made a phone call and was greeted by an answering machine she would slam the phone down in disgust and bluster about it, especially when calling her kids. It was liberating to us because we could now screen those calls and take our medicine later. She couldn't imagine that we could hear her blustering at the phone once the machine had picked up.

How then did she develop one of the most successful Brands of her day and survive almost 40 years until her passing? The restaurant was in a residential neighborhood of Rutland, VT, a location no traveler would stumble on. In rhe late fifties and early sixties she waited on tables, cooked and washed dishes. On Sunday she would clean and make fresh pasta. If you wanted a nap on Sunday, too bad, the beds were lined with drying fresh pasta. When I tell people my mother slept with the sauce one night a week for 40 years they think I'm crazy, but she did. She would put the sauce on after service, generally on Wednesdays. Due to the lack of room she would cook it through the night on the gas stove. She had to check it numerous times during the night so it didn't burn. So we know hard work was at the core of this legacy.

My mother would slowly develop one of the most successful Brands that emerged from her era. I have always been adamant about the fact that your Brand was not some clever marketing guru's concept of who you were but the Promise that you make to your community and the courage to execute it. My mother executed this flawlessly.

There were very special ingredients that emerged from the Casa Bianca in order to create a Brand that I hold dear today. It was a family affair. Not just our immediate family, many who worked there, but our guests were treated like family. Not just after they became good customers, but the first time they walked through the door. In those days it was the buzz, not social media, that built your Brand. Good old word of mouth built your Brand.

We strive to continue this today at Proctor Gas.

Spring 2017

67

(Serving both Bennington and Rutland Counties) Senior HelpLine 1-800-642-5119

Meals On Wheels • Family Caregiver Support Elder Care Clinician • Health Insurance Paperwork • Money Management Volunteer Opportunities East Ridge Professional Building 1085 US RT4 East - Unit 2B Rutland, Vermont 05701 (802) 786-5990 |www.svcoa.org.

Dentistry with our patients’ best interest at heart!

Join us in welcoming Dr. Sigita Jankunas to our practice! A graduate of Kaunas Medical University in Lithuania and the University of the Pacific Dental School in San Francisco, Dr. Jankunas has practiced general dentistry since 1991. Dr. Jankunas is accepting new patients and will provide all aspects of general dentistry to our patients.

New patients welcome!

• • • • • • • •

Crowns Bridges Fillings Extractions Dentures Sealants Children’s Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry

Heaton & FiscH Dental associates Please call 802-775-5286 to make your appointment.

1 11/1/16 7:01 PM 204 North Main Street • Rutland, Vermont 05701

Joy of Nails.pdf

Visit our website at www.heaton-fischdental.com

JOY OF NAILS SALON & SPA

• • • •

68

A Relaxing Setting Where Your Health Is Our Concern • Paraffin Wax Treatments Acrylic • Hair Services Spa Mani/Pedi • Gift Certificates Available Gel Manicures Waxing Linda Bove 775-2917 165 Woodstock Avenue Rutland VT 05701

yellow-bellied sapsucker announces its presence.

Farm fields are home to a variety of grassland birds. Savannah and song sparrows are usually present.

But it is the lovely tinkling song of the male bobolink as he does his display flight that delights both ears and eyes.

Farming practices have been detrimental to this handsome bird with his backwards tuxedo plumage. However, the efforts to conserve farmland and to delay early hay cutting allows these bird to raise their young.

Checking the Otter Creek from the bridge can reveal a variety of waterfowl. Bald eagles and great horned owls have been seen perched on the dead trees. Kingfishers patrol the creek seeking their fish dinner.

Nearby is where they nest in the sandbank. Barn swallows swoop under the bridge to their nests that are hidden underneath.

Occasionally an unexpected surprise can appear. One day as I viewed the creek to the north I noted a strange swirl in the water which did not appear to be made by a bird or fish. I finally saw the cause: a river otter! The otter swam towards me, stopping along the bank. We regarded each other long enough for me to take a photo. It then continued on south to whereever otters go.

Hollow Road just west of Brandon off Route 73 is one of my favorite places to find scarlet tanagers. This is a lovely dirt road that has had a variety of warblers, towhees and flycatchers. The golden-winged and blue-winged warblers frequent the power line and are known breeders.

The hybrids of these two species can also be present.

A half-hour drive south of Brandon to the West Rutland Marsh allows you to find the marsh birds that breed there. A boardwalk takes you into the marsh where you may see Virginia rails with their young slinking through the cattails. Early mornings offer the best chances to view some of the more secretive residents of the marsh. This is one reliable spot Rutland Magazine

to see the diminutive least bittern.

Generally you can hear its low call.

With patience and luck this tiny bird will fly up out of the cattails for a brief appearance.

The Rutland County Audubon Society holds a monthly marsh walk and to date has recorded 151 species of birds.

Closer to Brandon and along Route 7 is the Pomainville Wildlife Management Area. This area consists of 360 acres along the Otter Creek and can be birded spring through fall. Open meadow, wetlands, and old fields provide a home to resident as well as migrant birds.

One of the uncommon fall visitors is the Nelson’s sparrow. This particular sparrow has been seen in October as it migrates to warmer climes. A year ago I made my way to this spot in pursuit of this grassland bird. The secretive nature of this species combined with the tall grass that it enjoys makes for a difficult time finding it. Having seen a report on eBird I made my way to the area where it was seen.

It took three tries, but finally on an early cool morning I stood searching the grasses for it. Savannah and song sparrows were busily feeding but not the rare sought-after one. Finally I thought that I was not going to see this lovely sparrow with the orange face, when I heard a call behind me.

Slowly I turned 180 degrees and there was THE bird! I gradually brought my camera up and fired off several shots. The sparrow obliged by sitting out in the open for those few seconds.

Patience and persistence had finally paid off. This bird then dove back into the tall grasses and disappeared.

Come to Brandon and find your adventure whether it be birding or any of the other areas of interest.

Sue Wetmore is a long-time Brandon resident and has birded both here in Vermont as well as throughout the United States, Canada and Costa Rica.

Over 50 years of service Since 1963 Residential • Commercial • Industrial • Aggregate Dozers • Excavators • Tandem Trucks • Tri-Axle Trucks • Low Bed Services • COMPLETE SITE DEVELOPMENT • SITE CLEARING AND GRADING • ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND RE-CONSTRUCTION • WATER, SEWER LINES, PUMP STATIONS • DRAINAGE, PONDS • DEMOLITION • CUSTOM CRUSHING AND SCREENING • HAULING

VERMONT STATE APPROVED RECYCLING FACILITY ACCEPTING LOCAL WOOD, STUMPS, ASPHALT AND CONCRETE AT OUR FRANKLIN STREET BRANDON LOCATION

P.O. BOX 69, FLORENCE VT 05744 • (802) 483-6469 • FAX (802) 483-6978 E-MAIL: markexc@comcast.net • web: www.markowskiex.com

Awarded “Best New Home 2014”from HBRASV 15th Annual Excellence in Housing Awards Home Design By Architect Daniel Pratt—RCWA Com.

G Glendenning Vermont Country Homes

Custom Energy Star®Homes and Renovations L.L.C.

GlendenningHomes.com 802-446-3663

42 North Main Street • Wallingford, VT 05773 • daglendenning@vermontel.net Spring 2017

69

time travels This c. 1900 photograph of St. John’s is provided by the Poultney Historical Society. The image is a digital scan of an original 5”x7” glass plate negative taken by a local Poultney photographer sometime between 1890 and 1910. It appears that the elms that graced both sides of East Main St. from Poultney to East Poultney were moving in the wind, which could have caused the blurring at the top of the photo. St. Johns Cemetery is visible in the background, and electric wires in the foreground. The fence that surrounds the Church is no longer there.

THE STORY OF

an Old Church St. John’s Episcopal in East Poultney

BY THE REV. WILLIAM A. DAVIDSON 70

Rutland Magazine

A

t the corner of the village green in East Poultney sits St. John’s Episcopal Church. It is one of the two historically significant church buildings in the area, and shares that distinction with the larger and more prominent Baptist Church that dominates the green. Both churches are built in the classic New England clapboard style, and both have been a part of the landscape of East Poultney since for almost two hundred years.

The cornerstone of St. John’s Church was laid on May 27, 1831. The building was completed the following spring, and first services were held on May 27, 1832, with two Bishops of the Episcopal Church present to preside at the consecration of the edifice.

When the church was erected, East Poultney was booming. It boasted two large inns and a number of mills along the Poultney River. The famous Horace Greeley lived there, where he learned the printing trade and was launched on his career as editor of the New York Tribune. Amazingly, George Jones, co-founder of the New York Times, also lived in Poultney during the same era.

When the railroad located an important depot to the west of the village, the center of civic and commercial life moved. The members of St. John’s Church built another Episcopal Church, Trinity Church, near the new center in the late 1880’s. St. John’s continued to hold regular services in East Poultney until 1931. Until 2014 the old Church was open only once each year for an annual service of worship.

In the fall of 2013, a small group of residents from Poultney and a handful of people who had been associated with St. John’s met to discuss how the old church might be repaired and restored. The building had been virtually untouched since its closing. It contained the original, box-style pews, stenciled walls, and a remarkable, intact mechanical organ, one of four existing such instruments manufactured by the Nutting Organ Company of Vermont. The church had, and has, no plumbing facilities, no furnace, and no electricity. Suspended from the ceiling and remaining on the walls are the original oil lamps that produced the light. The questions faced were: could the church be reopened for services during the summer months, and could sufficient financial support be secured to address the physical needs of the building?

Two views of the church.

Spring 2017

photos Melanie Potter

71

photo provided by St. John’s The church is a peaceful, inviting place for worshippers.

72

photos by Melanie Potter

It was decided to offer worship in St. John’s on Saturday afternoons during June, July and August. The Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont appointed an executive committee of five persons to oversee the Church and to begin needed repairs. Local clergy were secured to lead the services, and musicians came to provide music. The Nutting Organ generated considerable interest among some organists who wanted the chance to play the instrument. Since the organ has no power, volunteers were on hand to work the bellows pump that caused the pipes Rutland Magazine

to sound.

During the summer of 2014, the services on Saturdays at 4:00 p.m. attracted people who came to worship in the old building and enjoy hearing the organ. There were usually at least 20 folks in the pews each Saturday.

A special Welsh service drew over 70 people, many of whom had Welsh ancestry.

The services during 2015, however, were sparsely attended. With the exception of another Welsh service, attendance could be as low as a halfdozen worshippers. At the same time the executive committee was successful in securing funding for the complete repair of the church roof and steeple. A restoration architect was hired to oversee all of the work that would be required to secure the building, and a qualified roofer carried out the work.

Worship services were offered during the summer of 2016, but followed a reduced schedule. There was one service during each of the three months. With fewer services and a special emphasis for each of them, this proved to be very successful with 30 to 40 attending each service. This will be the format for the services in 2017. The plan is to continue to have the church serve as a “summer chapel.”

Yet the future of old St. John’s Church is by no means secure. Can an overworked executive committee continue to find funds to complete the restoration? Will East Poultney be able to help preserve the building, since the East Poultney Historical Society already has the responsibility for maintaining three historically significant buildings in the community? Are there enough people in the area who want to worship in this church? The executive committee faces the same uphill struggle that so many church committees must address. We treasure a wonderful edifice, but we fear that we will not find the resources for its upkeep. The Spring 2017

Treating diseases of the eye, injuries, infections and glaucoma.

We specialize in customer service.

Offering comprehensive eye exams. Laser vision consultation, and pre- and post-operative care.

A LARGE SELECTION OF FASHION AND SPORT FRAMES. LARGE CONTACT LENS INVENTORY WITH EMERGENCY REPLACEMENT SERVICE AVAILABLE, EVENING HOURS BY APPOINTMENT AND MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED.

Pond Meadow Park 198 North Main Street Rutland VT

802-775-2368

www.ScottWebbOD.com AVAILABLE NOW at Clark+Kensington Bold and Beautiful Gilmore Home Center: 06D-5

Weather Shield® Windows & Doors

F

or more than a half-century, Weather Shield has coupled its commitment to innovative and performance-driven products with its unwavering dedication to customer service, research and development of highly innovative, top performing, and beautifully crafted windows and doors.

Your Home Te

a m S i n ce 1 9 5 7

427 Route 4A, Bomoseen, VT 802-468-5676/800-468-5675

gilmorehomecenter.com LIKE: facebook.com/GilmoreHC 73

interstate.pdf

4/30/12

11:46:58 AM

EVERY BATTERY FOR EVERY NEED

71 River Street, Rutland, VT 802-786-9075

Hours M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat.8-Noon

Episcopal Church in Vermont faces the daunting task of caring for historically significant structures, while not diminishing the main purpose of being an institution that has lively worship and services the needs of people in the community.

All are invited to worship in and savor the charm of an unchanged church on three summer Saturdays.

June 10, 2017 is the well-attended Welsh service with readings in the Welsh language and Welsh tunes.

On July 8, the service will celebrate our national heritage. August 12 is the traditional service on the day of the Poultney Historical Society’s East Poultney Day. Dr. James Cassarino, Director of the Vocal, Instrumental and Welsh Heritage programs at Green Mountain College brings the fine old organ to life at each service.

.

Nothing lets life into your home like Jeld-Wen® windows and doors Count on JELD-WEN to tie the look of your entire home together with a stunning array of interior and exterior doors, windows and folding wall systems, all designed to perform beautifully for years to come.

photo Melanie Potter

The Rev. William A. Davidson is the Vicar of St. Paul’s Church, Wells, and St. John’s Church, East Poultney.

Rutland VT Ludlow VT. 44 Windcrest Rd. 182 Pleasant St. Ext 802-775-0834 802-228-4665.

LAVALLEYS.COM

©2016 JELD-WEN Inc. All Rights Reserved

Rutland

Wallingford

Aldous Funeral Home and Cremation Service

Aldousfh@comcast.net

Aldousfuneralhome.com

Joseph P. Barnhart

Christopher J. Book 773-6252 74

$5,000 has been awarded to St. John’s by The Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation of Castleton which supports projects in the local area. When initial work is finished and approved there is a promise that this is a first installment to use for additional repairs. In Spring this gift will cover some of the cost to fully re-lay the entry stairs. This requires rebuilding the stacked stone supports under the massive slate treads. After this, an immediate future project will be to rebuild and repair the aging shutters.

Rutland Magazine

When Was The Last Time You Felt Good About Buying Heating Oil?

Budget-Friendly Payment Plans For Equipment & Fuel • 24-Hour Emergency Service • Preventative Maintenance/Tune-Up Quality Water Treatment Products and Installations • Heating and Cooling Installations With Service Contracts That Include Tune-Up for Maximum Efficiency • Free Equipment Quote • Trained Service Provider For Bioguard Oil Tank Just to Name a Few

Keyser Energy donated $10,000 since April 2015 for our “Fueling A Cure” program to the VT/NH Komen Chapter.

A family and community minded company.

(802) 775-3322 190 West Street Rutland, Vermont 05701

Dr. Michael R. Dick Dr. Sonia C.H. Yau

Generations Of Smiles 240 Stratton Road Rutland Vermont 05701 Spring 2017

New Patients Welcome 802-775-6981

www.cornerstonedentistryvt.com 75

Update

by Cassie Horner

FILLING IN THE

GAPS W

hen you’re working on your family history, it makes sense to begin with your direct line, traveling through paternal and maternal ancestry. But the more you research, the more questions arise. Some of the answers to the puzzles you uncover can be found in so-called collateral lines. For example, learning about your grandmother’s sisters may expand enormously your understanding of family patterns or the lack thereof.

This approach to research led me to the amazing story of Lucy E., the sister of my great grandmother. In this case, the trauma and drama of her life included five husbands, arson, gambling, drinking, abuse and a son labeled idiotic by the census.

Other family stories are quieter than Lucy’s but carry their

76

Ella Jane Larrabee was 16 years old when this photo was taken in 1873.

own power. Take Ella Jane Larrabee Churchill, for instance, one of Lucy’s nieces. The youngest of three girls in a family of 13, she was born in March 1857 in northern Vermont. That was 100 years before I was born but because she lived until 1949, my mother knew her well and spoke so fondly of her that I felt a connection, too. Aunt

Ella in her later years would take the train from Taftsville, Vermont where she lived in the village to Woodstock to visit her niece, my grandmother Carrie. She would share my mom’s cold north bedroom. I imagine she enjoyed Carrie’s cooking and that the women played cards in the evening, laughing and talking.

Rutland Magazine

Ella Jane Larrabee Churchill in the 1940s when she was in her 80s.

Ella, like her mother, had a large family. She bore 12 children, most of whom lived to adulthood. Her husband, Frank Churchill, ran a portable saw that he took around to neighboring farms in Pomfret and East Barnard. He was an expert with horses, and hired out with his teams. He hayed and did all of the other work of

Spring 2017

farming. One funny story I uncovered involved their marriage. The minister, Rev. Moses Kidder, wrote in his marriage record book that Frank had not given him a cent to perform the marriage!

Ella and Frank raised their family on farms they rented. One of her daughters, Mae, recounted in an

interview some of her memories of the Vermont farm life. There were good memories of holidays with her grandparents visiting all the long way by horse and wagon from South Woodstock, and of helping her father who she clearly adored with chores.

But there were not-so-good recollections of the hardscrabble life of a large family. She stated bluntly, “My mother had too many children.”

She also recalled the fire that took the life of one of her sisters when the little girl’s dress caught fire from embers left from a pile of burning brush in the orchard. Ella, hearing her daughter’s screams, ran to her and wrapped her skirt around her to put out the flames but the child was badly burned. The little girl lived a short time before succumbing to her injuries.

When I look at the two photographs I have of Ella, I think of these stories. In one studio portrait this pretty girl poses rosy-cheeked, a small smile flirting on her lips. She has her life ahead of her and sees its promise. The second photo, a snapshot taken in the last decade of her life, shows a tall, strong-figured woman, her hair snowy white and her expression sober as she stands outdoors in the snow. In between the two photos are the roughly 60 years that were filled with joy, expectations, heartache and courage.

Knowing what I do about Aunt Ella and having the two glimpses of what she looked like as a fresh-faced girl and an old woman allows me to fill in some of the gaps in my family story.

Knowing some of the connections between her and the people close to her enlarges my understanding of all of us.

77

School News

Nicholas Moise and Kristen Elliott

DIVERSITY

AT MSJ ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY KIM J. GIFFORD

D

iscussions of diversity are playing an important role in shaping the future of our world. It seems an ideal time to visit an area of the community where diversity is not only evident but also thriving, a lesson in how beneficial a true melting pot can be.

According to staff, students, and community members associated with Mount Saint Joseph’s (MSJ) Academy, MSJ is one such place. Paul Gallo, volunteer diversity chair, said, “the kids at MSJ are not just studying the world today; they are living it!” The school’s International and Diversity programs make it possible for students from Haiti, Korea, China, and South America as well as inner city students from New York to attend MSJ and share their cultures with the greater community. The institution, which espouses Christian values, is not only diverse in race but also faith.

78

Gallo points out that last year’s MSJ valedictorian was Jewish while the salutatorian was Baptist.

Fatima Hussnane of Fair Haven, a sophomore at MSJ and a Muslim, calls the school “a place where you don’t have to hide anything.” She went to public school for most of her life and following 9/11 found herself the subject of bullying. “At my old school, I was at a ceremony walking down to get an award and a boy shouted ‘Are you related to Saddam Hussein?’ I was so little I cried. I have never experienced anything like that here,” she says. “At MSJ, we are encouraged to talk about our religions, backgrounds, and race and to see the similarities and differences.”

Senior Jenna Eaton of Rutland said, “Coming from a very rural state, I feel MSJ is a nice place to learn about people from everywhere around the world. It opens up

Rutland Magazine

“ Coming from a very rural state, I feel MSJ is a nice place to learn about people from everywhere around the world. It opens up your eyes to how diverse the country and the world actually are and shows there is a lot you can learn from people who are very different from you.”

— SENIOR JENNA EATON

Nicholas Moise

Ethan Renfrew

your eyes to how diverse the country and the world actually are and shows there is a lot you can learn from people who are very different from you.”

At the same time, Eaton noted that such exposure has also shown her what she and those from other cultures have in common. “I hosted an exchange student from Haiti a couple of years ago and got to hear her talk about her culture. We listened to the same music and watched the same television shows,” Eaton said.

MSJ is one of the most diverse schools in the state. “I think Winooski is the only other high school with a more diverse base than us,” said Gallo. The percentage of diverse students has been as high as 20 to 22 percent, he estimated.

Drawing students from other areas of the country and the world benefits the overall school population as much as the students it takes in.

“Being a small rural state, this helps get our kids prepared for the real world. We are probably Rutland’s greatest export,” Gallo said. “Ninety to 95 percent of our students go off to college. All the diversity students in the program have graduated from

Jenna Eaton and Gabby Giancola

Spring 2017

79

Cedric Andre, Fatima Hussnane and Jenna Eaton

MSJ and moved on to college.”

MSJ’s diversity program really kicked into gear following the Haitian earthquake in 2010. At that time the school opened its doors to Haitian students who were displaced. “When the earthquake hit in January of 2010 and the country lost nearly 300,000 lives and had another 500,000 injured, MSJ immediately reached out to Catholic Charities and the US government in Haiti to bring displaced Haitian students to live and go to high school here,” said Gallo.

Since then the school has hosted a number of Haitians, this past year

welcoming five students. “All the kids are very focused on academics and bring a lot to our community,” said Sarah Fortier, MSJ principal, who noted the participation of several students in sports.

Both Gallo and Fortier have experienced the benefits of a diverse population firsthand. Gallo and his family hosted several Haitian students. “The experience reached a climax last year when the kids graduated and all ended up at our house.

The Haitian families cooked for three days and had these huge pots of food.

The kids were here eating, dancing

Teen Classes offered in: South Royalton, Sharon, Norwich, Bellows Falls, Putney, Stratton, Dorset and Rutland.

Adult training offered.

Instructor, Gabriella Netsch yankeedrivingschool@comcast.net 80

A woman-owned and operated business.

http://www.yankeedrivingschool.com/

and swimming until three or four in the morning. It was wonderful.”

For Fortier, the impact has been even more profound. She likes to tell the story of her own son Jack.

“When the first inner city students came here from New York, he was a kindergartner and had just had major surgery. He was in double leg casts. Coincidentally, one of the kids named Rob was walking by and watched me struggling to get Jack and his wheelchair up to the classroom. He helped pick Jack up on his own accord and met me every morning at Christ the King School to help thereafter. They forged an unbelievable friendship,” she said.

“He enriched my son’s life. It was a pretty cool lesson to learn as a fiveyear-old.”

Diversity is nothing new at MSJ. Both Gallo and Fortier emphasize that it was part of the school’s original mission. MSJ began as an all girls’ school. During the Great Depression, when there was a need for more students, it expanded to take in boys. During this time, it also began Rutland Magazine

Joe Whittaker, Clay Drinwater and Randolf Mangundayo

taking in inner city students. “The nuns realized that there were many immigrants in the area—Italians, Poles, French, all first-generation Americans—who weren’t speaking English and needed to be educated,” said Gallo.

Fortier noted that the school’s religious roots also play a part in the student body’s seemingly easy acceptance of others. “This is exactly what Christ preached—the acceptance of everyone for who they are and that’s exactly what these kids are doing,” she said.

Haitian student Cedric Lyonel Andre admits to some apprehension when he first came to MSJ. “I was a Spring 2017

Steve Descollines

81

Acupuncture Works Treating: Depression • Anxiety • Insomnia • Fatigue Headaches/Migraines • Neck, Shoulder And Back Pain Digestive Disorders • Urinary, Menstrual And Reproductive Issues Evening And Saturday Appointments Available

Dianne Richoz Barclay Licensed Acupuncturist

105 Center Street, Rutland, Vermont 802-342-4880 diannerbarclay@me.com

www.acupunctureworksvt.com

Fluent in design—And we can translate

Have a well designed day CALL 802.236.3055 EMAIL ruxana@ruxana.com or VISIT www.VermontInteriorDesigner.com 82

little stressed about making friends and meeting new people. I came to realize it is really nice here,” he said.

“At MSJ everybody talks to everybody else and you get to know everyone and their ways.”

MSJ’s students are well aware of the example they offer the greater community. “I think about the Syrian refugees and I know a lot of people aren’t backing their coming here,” said Hussamane. “I think the values we have here and the way that we are brought up in this school shows that there is nothing scary about welcoming them. I have been able to share this with a couple of families I know, who now have ‘Rutland Welcomes’ signs out.”

“We would want people to do the same for us if we found ourselves in that situation,” said Eaton. “It is a matter of reaching out and treating people like you want to be treated and emulating what they teach here at MSJ.” “If I had had a bad welcome here, I think I would have been more scared to talk to people I meet outside of the school,” confirmed Andre. “The fact that people are very social and nice motivated me to interact with people I meet and be nice to them, too.”

“Open-mindedness is key,” said Fortier, “much of that happens naturally here in the classroom.”

“Simply spending some time with people will give you a greater understanding of them,” agreed Gallo. “I think it is important for the greater Rutland community to know there is great value in being in a place that is multicultural, multi-racial and multifaith.”

Kim J. Gifford is a writer, teacher, artist and photographer. She lives in Bethel, VT with her grumble of pugs (yes, that is indeed what a group of pugs is called) Alfie, Waffles and Amore. To view her work and hear their stories visit www. pugsandpics.com.

Rutland Magazine

“It’s George.

He’s gone and enlisted.”

The heat of June and July drove on into August and the harvest began. I was out with Hiram many days, helping him determine what the goal would be and working by his side to take in the corn, loading the wagon for the gristmill. It was a day late in that month, and we were haying. I was out in the field on the far side of the orchard with a long rake, when I saw motion and stopped my task. I peered into the bright light, and finally made out it was Myalina running toward me, her hands gathering up the sides of her skirt and her long hair flying behind her, dark and glossy in the sun like the feathers of a crow. I dropped the rake and hurried to meet her, fear making me gasp for breath.

Her face streamed tears and when we were close, she flung herself at me and I caught onto her waist and she wrapped her arms tightly around my shoulders and sobbed so hard I was even more afraid.

“There, there,” I soothed. “There, there. What has happened? Myalina, what is wrong?” When she did not stop crying, her frame racked with her weeping, I gently, but firmly unfolded her arms from me and placed my hands on either side of her face to calm her and get her to talk.

“You have to tell me,” I said. “I can’t help if I don’t know.”

My heart was hammering; was it her mother, Malinda, one of the children, Horace...Charles?

“It’s George!” she got out the words at last. “It’s George! He’s gone and enlisted. For three years. He’s gone and enlisted in the Third to be with his brother. He’s leaving in a few days. Oh, my God, what am I to do?”

A hundred thoughts flared through my mind. Not Charles, no one dead, my sister safe, but Myalina was losing George, her husband whom she loved, to the war.

I took her back in my arms, and she continued to cry, though with less heat, and I rocked her like I would a baby. Hiram had come to stand close by and he watched us silently.

“It’s George,” I told him, over her shoulder. “He has enlisted.”

He shook his head and looked mournful. One after another, all of the men were going. Now both of the able Gage sons would be at war, leaving only the consumptive son who moved like a shadow around the house and only went outside to sit on warm days in the sunshine.

Lucy E.–Road To Victory

Available in Rutland at The Bookmobile (802) 342-1477 allSpring 20132017

83 87

Spotlight on Business

PARK VISIONS

AT RUTLAND REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

BY PAUL POST • PHOTOS BY BILL ACKERMAN

D

reams of a multi-purpose park near Rutland Regional Medical Center now have a tangible shape that backers can use to rally community support for the project.

Landscape architecture students from two upstate New York colleges developed plans for the site during a Design Challenge competition last fall. Possible elements include therapy gardens, an amphitheater, an outdoor classroom, a playground, a pavilion, zip lines, a skating pond, and a sculpture piece or monument.

84

“We’re hoping when completed this will be a regional attraction, not just for Rutland, but something everyone can use — kids, seniors, hospital employees and patients,” said Russ Marsan, co-owner of Carpenter & Costin Landscape Management, and a driving force behind the park effort. The park proposal is the result of Marsan’s passion for a national program called Come Alive Outside, whose mission is to promote healthy living by encouraging people to make the most of outdoor spaces where they live, work and play. He is the nonprofit’s board president.

Rutland Magazine

Come Alive Outside Program Director Andy Paluch recently moved to Rutland to oversee and keep momentum for the park moving forward. The hospital owns 120 acres at the corner of Allen Street and Stratton Road. The proposed five-acre park is only the first phase of its development. Longrange plans for the remaining space have yet to be formulated.

“The role Rutland Regional Medical Center is playing is very inspiring,” Paluch said. “It is really progressive and visionary for a medical center to recognize the land that it owns as an opportunity to enhance the health and wellness of the community. We usually think of medicine and healing taking place within the walls of the hospital, but there is such an overwhelming body of research showing the profound benefits of spending time in nature on our physical and mental health. The Medical Center is really providing a model to hospitals across the country on how to intentionally design the land they own into

proud of.

The three-day Design Challenge, held last October, was comprised of teams from the State University of New York at Cobleskill and the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse. Both schools have accredited landscape architecture departments.

One of the first things students did, upon visiting Rutland, was interact with kindergarten to fifth-grade kids at Clarendon Elementary School, to see what ideas they had for a play park. They also met with high schoolaged students at Stafford Technical Center, along with city Recreation Department and local financial institution officials, to get a diverse crosssection of community feedback.

Next, they went back to the Best Western hotel in Mendon and pulled an all-nighter, developing park designs on their laptops. “They came up with some pretty amazing conceptual designs,” Marsan said.

From there, teams presented ideas

Rutland in mid-December for further review.

The park’s steering committee narrowed the proposals down from nine to three. Plans called for deciding on a final design by early February 2017.

The committee had the option of choosing one plan, or “cherry-picking” the best elements from each of the three.

“Things of this magnitude are not a slam-dunk the first time around,” Marsan said. “The final design may be fine the way it is or it may need some tweaking.”

The process was an invaluable learning experience for college students.

“The Design Challenge gave me an opportunity to work with a real community and get a chance to hear what people are really looking for firsthand,” said Jennifer Bushkie, a master of landscape architecture student at SUNY ESF. “Sometimes in an academic environment we don’t always get the chance to hear what people

a place that connects the community with nature.”

Park plans were developed with a great deal of community input, too, so the finished product is something eventual users will be attracted to, and

and sought comments and suggestions from more than 100 people gathered at the Paramount Theatre in downtown Rutland. After returning to school, they used public input to finetune plans, which were sent back to

want from different standpoints, so this was a very unique opportunity.

Ultimately, I would like to work with communities like Rutland, Vermont and help design projects that offer something different for the commu-

Spring 2017

85

Introducing Our New Pub Restaurant hours Tuesday thru Saturday, 5:30 to 9:00 pm.

The Inn Pub hours Tuesday-Thursday 5:30 to 9:00 Friday & Saturday 4:00 to 9:00 The Sunday Brunch 10:00 to 2:00

55 North Main Street, Wallingford, Vermont 05773

802-446-2099

Thank you to our customers for 30 years of patronage.

Complete Liquid Fertilization Program Including Weed/Insect Control Liming/Core Aeration ORGANIC Fertilizer Program

For A Beautiful Lawn...A Place To Relax

Call 802-773-7833

Catamount Pet Supply Company, Inc. 296 US Route 4 East Rutland Town VT 05701 802-773-7642 Open M-F 10:00 to 6:30 & Sat 10-5 Catamount Pet Supply Company Grooming 802-773-7636

By Appointment

86 86

nity that the people truly support.”

Site conditions were also a major factor in the designs that the teams created. “As a group we decided the large Class II wetland should be a design feature for habitat, recreation and education,” said Robyn Lomenzo, an MLA student at SUNY-ESF. “My proposal was to transform the wetland into a pond that can be used in summer for fishing and in winter for pond hockey and ice skating. This project will provide a multi-seasonal space for the community to connect with nature. It offers many spaces for all ages and needs, to gather as a community and enjoy the outdoors.”

SUNY ESF associate professor Timothy R. Toland said students benefited greatly from working with an actual client in a real-life setting, apart from the classroom. “The possibility that some of their ideas may be implemented is exciting to students, so I think it gave them extra incentive,” he said. “This project and the ideas of Come Alive Outside to promote an active outdoor lifestyle help address some of the health issues we see with kids and adults alike.”

Rutland Magazine

Each age group’s needs were considered when developing plans.

The park will also be handicapped accessible.

“Students were also sensitive to the context, so providing spaces for hospital employees and family members to have some private spaces in the gardens, and for patients to perhaps do some walking to aid their recovery I think also were strong positives,” Toland said.

With designs now in hand, park plans still have to go through the permitting process. Also, very little in the way of fundraising has been done. The park will likely cost well in excess of $1 million. However, it’s hoped that such costs will be greatly reduced with volunteer labor and donated materials from local firms and individuals.

Marsan said an autumn 2017 groundbreaking is still possible.

“It all depends on how quickly we can rally the troops,” he said. “If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that this is a community that gets things done.”

Spring 2017

87

all about the arts

88

Rutland Magazine

ART ON THE SAND ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY CASSIE HORNER

S

itting or walking on the beach off-season is soothing, exciting and endlessly fascinating. On a series of days on a beach in Rye, New Hampshire, I brought a book but never cracked it; there was simply too much going on. Instead, I wandered along the shore with a camera, my husband Tim and our dogs.

And we sat, each of us experienced the environment in our own ways, whether it was the incoming tide, a series of dog encounters that ranged from a lively black and tan bassett hound to a friendly Lhasa apso,

Spring 2017

or the sound and shadows of an enormous American flag flapping in the wind.

We enjoyed conversations with dog owners. I had the chance to talk with a man from the Seacoast Science Center as he measured and observed the washed-up carcass of a young seal.

The sand itself became a canvas for the sea. The waves created patterns that looked like sea plants. The waves left dimpled sand around a tool-like stone. The ebbing tide left pools filled with shapes and colors of seaweed and rocks.

89

The constantly changing light acted like a paint-filled brush. On the walk in one direction, the water and sky were bright with sunlight; on the walk back the lack of sun turned the water grayish-green. One day in December, the early sunset about 4 p.m. transformed the sand into translucent 90

pink, reminiscent of the hues of the mother-of-pearl cast of the inside of a shell.

Every moment was full of change.

Maybe that’s why I didn’t read: because each look around me was like turning the page of a book.

Rutland Magazine

MILLER HILL FARM NURSERY & GARDENS

Vermont’s Year Round Farmers Market. vtfarmersmarket.org Winter Market Wednesday 3 to 6 Saturday 10 to 2 November through April Vermont Farmers Food Center 251 West Street Rutland VT

Annuals • Organic Veggie Sets • Perennials Berry Plants * Shrubs Trees • Ferns • Native Species

FARM STORE & ANTIQUES • WORKSHOPS & EVENTS

2127 RTE 73 E. SUDBURY VT millerhillfarmvt.com 802-623-7373

Bald mountain farm

Saturdays May 13-October 28 9 AM-2 PM Wednesdays May 17-October 25

Summer Market Wednesday 3 to 6 Saturday 9 to 2 May through October Outdoor Opening Day May 13th Downtown Rutland Depot Park Fair Haven Farmers Market Fair Haven Park Friday 3 to 6 June through October EBT, Debit and Credit Cards Accepted Support Your Local Economy 802-342-4727

Wednesday-Friday 10-6 Saturday 10-2

Commercial And Custom Cut Meat And Poultry

Fresh • Local • Home-Grown • Humane

Mendon Mountain Orchards and Motel

Take & Bake Homemade Black Angus Meatloaf feeds 4-6

Hubbardtheo@ymail.com 28 Cold River Road 802-417- 4922 802-353-6196 N. Clarendon VT. 05759

Affordable Country Lodging OPEN YEAR ROUND Fresh Baked Pies And Turnovers

VERMONT MAPLE SYRUP VERMONT GIFT SHOP 1894 US RTE 4 MENDON VT 05701 802-775-5477 WWW.MENDONORCHARDS.COM

Brown’s Orchard & Farm Stand Route 3o South Brown’s

Our 38th Year 4 Corners, Castleton VT 802-468-2297 at the market! ~ Since 1926 ~

Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables Jams & Jellies VT Cheddar Cheese ◊ Homemade Bread Honey ◊ Cider Donuts ◊ Maple Syrup Homemade Pastries ◊ Homemade pies

support your local farmer Spring 2017

91

WHAT’S HAPPENING

BY SUSAN ORZELL-RANTANEN

92

Rutland Magazine

FARMERS’ MARKETS MOVE OUTDOORS IN MAY RUTLAND COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET The Rutland County Farmers’ Market moves from their winter digs to the outdoor venue of Depot Park in the heart of downtown. The outdoor season traditionally begins the Saturday before Mother’s Day, which this year falls on May 13, and runs until the October 28. The hours are from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 p.m.

All of the products are sold by the farmers that produce them. Shop for everything from produce to specialty and prepared foods to plants, baked goods and cheeses. This direct communication between producer and consumer is crucial to the localvore movement gaining momentum in the area.

THE VERMONT FARMERS MARKET sets up for the first time the Saturday after Mother’s Day, which this year falls on May 20. The hours are 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This market also opens on Wednesdays from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

THE FAIR HAVEN FARMERS MARKET, which sets up in Fair Haven Park, meets June through October on Fridays from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

PHOTO CASSIE HORNER

Spring 2017

PARAMOUNT THEATRE SPRING VENUE The Paramount Theatre, located at 30 Center Street in downtown Rutland, offers a variety of entertainment for the Spring, 2017 season. On Friday, March 3, at 8:00 p.m. Natalie MacMaster, an award-winning fiddler from Nova Scotia playing Cape Breton music, who has toured with well-known bands and recorded with Yo-Yo Ma, takes the stage. On Friday, March 17, at 8:00 p.m., the Steep Canyon Rangers American Bluegrass 93

band from North Carolina performs.

On Saturday, March 18 at 8:00 p.m.

The Irish Comedy Tour brings their act, which transports the audience to a rowdy Irish pub complete with “hooligans”, to Rutland. On Friday, March 24 at 8:00 p.m. Dennis Deyoung, best recognized as leading vocalist and keyboardist for the rock band Styx, is featured.

Entering the new month, on Sunday, April 2 at 4:00 p.m., Shaolin Warriors, a Chinese television program produced in cooperation with the Shaolin Monastery, highlights unusual martial art footage. On Wednesday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m., classic English

rock icon Peter Frampton, whose hits are staples of classic rock radio programs, headlines the agenda.

On Friday, April 21, at 8:00 p.m., the Charlie Daniels Band features guitars, fiddles, banjos, and mandolins in their music which earned them an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2016. On Sunday, April 30 at 8:00 p.m. American actress, writer, producer and TV host Kathy Griffin will showcase her equally well-known talents as a comedian.

The month of May has three acts on the docket. On Saturday, May 6 at 8:00 p.m., the Del McCoury Band fills the hall with heritage bluegrass

music. On Sunday, May 14 at 7:00 p.m. Brian Regan, known for “clean, off-center” comedy, looks at everyday American life, present and past, with a humorous insight that resonates with audiences. On Sunday, May 21, at 8:00 p.m. Sara Evans, American country music singer and songwriter, comes to the Paramount Stage.

For more information visit www.

ParamountVT.box-officetickets.com or call (802) 775-0570.

VERMONT ACTORS’ REPERTORY THEATRE The Rutland-based theatre group presents spring showings of Steel Magnolias by Robert Harley on Thursday, April 27 and Friday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, April 30 at 2:00 p.m. In May the dates are Thursday, May 4; Friday, May 5; and Saturday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. The setting is Truvy’s Beauty Salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana where Truvy, Annelle, Miss Clairee, M’Lynn and Shelby are the leading characters telling the story, in comedic style with an undoubtedly tragic twist, of a young woman with diabetes. The play is directed by Gary Meitrott. The tickets are $20 and seating is limited. Tickets are available in advance through the Paramount Theatre box office. For more information call (802) 775- 0903 or email actorsrepvt@aol.com.

RUTLAND FREE LIBRARY BOOK SALE PHOTO CASSIE HORNER located The Rutland Free Library, at 10 Court Street in Rutland, offers several Spring book sales in the basement of the building. In March the sales take place on Friday, March 3, from 10:00 to 4:00 and Saturday, March 4, from 10:00 to 2:00. The April sale takes place Wednesday, April 5 from 3:00 to 7:00. The May sales take place on Friday, May 5 from 10:00 to 4:00 and Saturday, May 6 from 10:00 to 2:00. The inventory of “gently used” items includes hardcover books, paperbacks, puzzles,

94

PHOTO CASSIE HORNER

Rutland Magazine

CDs and DVDs for all age groups and interests The proceeds support the library’s collections and activities. For more information call (802) 773-1860 or visit www.rutlandfree.org.

MARCH

FROSTY DERBY ICE-FISHING CONTEST On March 5, the Frosty Derby IceFishing Contest, sponsored by the Poultney Fish and Game Club, gets off to an early start at 8:00 a.m. at Lake St. Catherine. This annual, family-oriented event offers both adult and children’s categories, with prizes for the largest fish caught in several species including pike, trout, perch and bass. For more information call (802) 287-9111 or visit www. rutlandvermont.com RUTLAND REGION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS SHOW The Rutland Region Chamber of Commerce presents the annual Business Show at the Holiday Inn on Route 7 South in Rutland from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. The event, sponsored by the Rutland Regional Medical Center, is one of the year’s largest networking and marketing opportunity for retail vendors and service providers. A sell-out number of more than 90 vendors exhibit in this traditionally well-attended expo. Door prizes and raffles add to the fun for attendees mingling among the business owners there to answer question about their enterprises. There is an entry fee of $5 per person. For more information call (802) 773-2747 or visit www.rutlandvermont.com WEST RUTLAND VARIETY SHOW The eighth annual West Rutland Variety Show, held on Sunday, March 19 at 3:00 in the afternoon at the West Rutland Town Hall at 35 Marble Street, brings together energetic local talent as a fundraiser for the Spring 2017

VT Plumbing License PM 1869 RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Repairing • Remodeling • New Work 24 Hour Service A.C. Heatpumps • Gas & Oil hot water boilers Oil Burners • Water Pumps • Hot Air Furnace Wood Boilers 1934 Rt 140, PO Box 465 Wallingford, VT 05773

(802) 446-2931 (802) 236-0663 Cell

Email: blph@vermontel.net Web Site: billlohsenplumbingandheating.com

Serving Rutland County for 25 years

Choices To Honor Every Life

Clifford Funeral Homes and Cremation Service

802-773-3010

2 Washington Street Rutland, Vermont

Cliffordfunerahome.com

Clifford Funeral Homes & Cremation Service have operated in the Rutland, Vermont area since 1875.

We offer burial and cremation services to meet the individual needs of the families we serve.

95

Rutland County Women’s Network and Shelter (RCWNS). Members of the West Rutland and Rutland communities perform music, dance and comedy routines. Parishioners of the St. Bridget and St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Churches in West Rutland will take the stage, as will the Rutland Curbstone Chorus and dancers from the “Just Dance” Studio. Adult and youth singers, musicians and comedians will round out the program. The event will also feature a 50/50 raffle and a bake sale. All funds raised go directly to RCWNS. The tickets are $8 for adults; $5 for seniors and children under 12; and there is a $20 cap for families. For Variety Show tickets call (802) 438-2490.

POULTNEY MAPLEFEST 2017 CELEBRATION On Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26, the Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Poultney Maplefest Celebration, with the entire town as the venue. Activities include a 5-K fun run (traditionally the first of the season); a Vermont pancake breakfast; horse-drawn wagon rides through downtown Poultney; maplerelated contests and raffles; maple story time at the Poultney Library, including crafts, songs, and a maple snack; a craft fair; a basket party; a Maplefest dinner; and much more for adults and children. On Sunday, the Poultney Maplefest segues with the Vermont Maple Open House Weekend as local sugarmakers open their operations for tours, with treats available including maple fried dough, sugar on snow, maple sugar candy, and maple cotton candy. For more information visit www.poultneyvt.com.

APRIL

LADIES’ NIGHT OUT SPRING CONCERTS The group will offer a program of “choir favorites” including jazz and pop tunes 96

geared for wonderful bassist Glendon Ingalls and talented pianist, Rita Lane.

Also featured will be a aadrigal, a classic

by Mendelssohn, some beautiful newly composed works by Eric Whittaker and Z. Randall Stroop, arrangements of spirituals by Andre Thomas and Alice Parker, and as always, the group’s theme song by Gwyneth Walker, “How Can I Keep From Singing?” Lucy Allen Tenenbaum is the artistic director and conductor. Donation is by free will offering at all sites.

information visit www.VTMapleFestival.org or call (802) 524-5800.

MAY

April 18 at Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society in Middlebury, 7:30 pm.

April 22 at Brandon Town Hall, at 7:30 p.m.

April 23, TBD but probably at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Rutland at 3 p.m. in the afternoon.

THE RUTLAND GARDEN CLUB PLANT SALE The Rutland Garden Club annual plant sale, a fundraiser for the organization, takes place on Saturday, May 20, from 9:00 a.m. until all the plants are sold. It will be held at the corner of Center and Main Streets in Rutland, in front of the Hull Maynard Hersey Insurance Agency (105 Center Street).A wide variety of assorted perennials and hosta appropriate for Zone 4 planting are offered. The Rutland Garden Club earmarks the money for the maintenance of 20 public gardens throughout the city. For more information call Carol Kenlan at (802) 446-2883.

VERMONT MAPLE FESTIVAL The 51st annual Vermont Maple Festival, a traditional spring event celebrating “all things maple” that is held in St. Albans but draws visitors from not only throughout Vermont but across the United States and Canada is held on Friday, April 28; Saturday April 29; and Sunday, April 30. The weekend features a wide variety of entertainment and activities such as antiques and crafts shows, specialty foods concessions, musical events, and comedy and youth talent shows. Festival events throughout the weekend include a pancake breakfast, a maple dinner, sugarhouse tours, children’s activities, the Sap Run foot race, a carnival, and a two-hour parade with floats, bands and costumed characters. Venues for the variety of fun include City Hall, Taylor Park, Bellows Free Academy, the Town Educational Center on South Main Street, the Main Street Stage, the City Elementary School and St. Mary’s Hall. Maple syrup is judged, tasted, sold and featured in cooking demonstrations and contests. For more

SPRING OPEN STUDIO WEEKEND On the weekend of Saturday, May 27 and Sunday, May 28, artists and craftspeople throughout Vermont welcome visitors to their studios for a look behind the scenes at the state’s important creative economy. The Vermont Arts Council, the non-profit organization which launched the first tour in 1993, describes the event as a celebration of the visual arts. Workplaces, some open to the public only during the annual Open Studio Weekends, highlight the work of jewelers, glassblowers, weavers and fabric artists, quilters, furniture makers, blacksmiths, sculptors, painters and woodworkers, among others. Some art galleries complement the event by hosting lectures and special exhibits.

Travelers may follow the Vermont Open Studio Guide published by the Council and available statewide at tourist information centers, galleries and participating studios. For more information about the event or to access the Vermont Open Studio Guide visit www.vermontcrafts.com or call (802) 223-3380.

Rutland Magazine

COOL & COMFORTABLE IN THE SUMMER The simple solution to your home’s heating and cooling problems

Full-Service Plumbing, Heating and HVAC Contractor

AMERICA’S #1 SELLING BRAND OF DUCTLESS

2080 US2080 Route East4| Mendon, VT 05701 US 4Route East | Mendon, VT 05701 | Toll Free: 800-655-7558 Phone: 802-775-7558 Phone: 802-775-7558 | Toll Free: 800-655-7558 www.excelplumbingandheating.com www.excelplumbingandheating.com

Pre-Book Your Stay Before Your Surgery

If you are having a knee or hip replacement, or have other surgery scheduled, leave the worrying to us... Our center is right around the corner, close to home and your family and friends.

99 Allen Street Rutland, VT 05701 T. 802-775-2331 | F. 802-775-6813 www.PinesRutland.com

Call our center to arrange a tour and to meet our caring professionals.

While you’re here, pre-book your rehabilitation with us prior to your surgery.

• Physical & Occupational erapies available 7 days a week • Respiratory erapy available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week • Orthopedic Rehabilitation Specialty Team • Rehabilitation gymnasium, complete with state of the art equipment • Air conditioning with individual temperature controls • Private accommodations with hotel-like amenities • Selective dining menu that caters to your food preferences • Our Rehabilitation short term unit is specifically for individuals recovering and going home Most insurances accepted – we will handle everything so you can focus on your recovery.

An affiliate of National Health Care Associates, Inc. 98

Rutland Magazine