Home I mprovement Page 10

May 18May 31, 2017

Montpelier

ROXMO SCHOOL DISTRICT ?

Roxbury

Montpelier and Roxbury Voters to Decide

On School Merger June 20 by Phil Dodd
MONTPELIER/ROXBURY Its a seven-person Act 46 merger study committee, activities, according to Guiffre. Roxbury is
IN THIS ISSUE: combination few could have envisioned just
a couple of years ago, but the school systems
the majority of which in late April approved
sending a merger plan to the voters on June 20.
currently a school choice district, so students
now in seventh grade or above are driven or
of the city of Montpelier and the tiny rural The vote among the Montpelier members was carpool to their schools, with most going to
Pg. 4 Proposed Nuisance town of Roxbury 17 miles and two school 3 to 2 in favor of the plan, while both Roxbury U-32.
Ordinance districts away will be joining forces in members voted yes. The official vote was 4 to Under the agreement with Montpelier,
a unified school district if voters in both 2, however, since Roxbury members only had Roxbury students who are in seventh grade
towns approve the merger in a June 20 special half a vote each, to account for population or above this year will be grandfathered so
Pg. 5 Policing Policy election, an election that was unanimously differences. they can continue to attend the school of their
Clarification OK'd by the State Board of Education on A formal 23-page report of the merger choice until they graduate, which will cost the
May 16. committee was sent May 4 to the State Board new unified district $1.25 million spread over
Pg. 13 MSAC When Montpelier residents first hear about
the idea, the first question often asked is why
of Education, which must approve mergers.
The report did not mention the split vote or
four years, an amount that is more than offset
by Act 46 tax incentives.
Celebrates 50 Roxbury is not merging with Northfield instead include any comments from the dissenters, While Roxbury families enjoy school choice,
Years of Montpelier, since Roxbury is currently
in a supervisory union with neighboring
but consultant Steve Dale, paid by the state
to staff the merger committee, said there was
Guiffre said tuitioning is very expensive and
that fact, coupled with the states plan to reduce
Northfield and the Northfield Middle/High no necessity to share the dissenting views in state aid for small districts and districts with
Pg. 12 Gary Residence School is much closer to Roxbury. Northfield the report. declining student numbers, makes Roxburys
voted May 2 to merge with Williamstown and If the plan gets voter approval, the Roxbury future as a stand-alone district bleak. Without
to form a supervisory union with Orange and school district will experience major changes a merger with someone, Roxburys tax rates
Washington. beginning in the 20182019 school year. The would be catastrophic and the district might
CAR-RT SORT

Permit NO. 123

Montpelier, VT

At one point, Roxbury hoped to join that Roxbury Village School, which currently have to close its school, Guiffre said.
PRSRT STD

U.S. Postage
PAID

supervisory union, too, but the law prevents serves 52 pre-K through sixth grade students, In a merger with Montpelier, however,
districts with different grade structures will become a pre-K through fourth grade Roxbury residents would see significant
from joining together in supervisory unions, school, and Roxbury students from fifth grade property tax savings. According to merger-
according to Jon Guiffre, chair of both the on will be sent by bus to Montpelier. committee projections, five years from now
Roxbury school board and the Montpelier- At a public hearing this spring, one committee the owner of a $200,000 house in Roxbury
Roxbury merger committee. Roxbury later member said it would take a school bus would get a $960 reduction in annual school
weighed merging directly with Northfield, about half an hour to travel between the property taxes under the merger.
but the Roxbury school board, with significant communities, plus the additional time it would
community input, ultimately decided The owner of a $200,000 home in Montpelier
take for a bus to circulate through Roxbury on would, in five years, save just $40 per year
Montpelier was a better fit both educationally the expanded bus route the merger agreement
and culturally, he said. There was also some with the merger. But annual savings for such
envisions. A few students could be on the bus a Montpelier owner would be a bit more than
fear that with a Northfield merger the Roxbury for up to an hour, it was estimated.
Elementary school would be closed. double that, on average, in earlier years due to
There might eventually be separate buses Act 46 property tax incentives, which expire
The Montpelier school board was open to for middle and high school students from after four years.
exploring a merger, and last fall the Montpelier Roxbury, with a late return bus for those
Continued on Page 8
Montpelier, VT 05601

and Roxbury school districts formed a special staying after school for sports or other
P.O. Box 1143

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PAG E 2 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

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T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 3

Welcome To Our Spring Fundraising Campaign

We Need You To Help Us Keep Providing Local Journalism
Dear Bridge Readers,

In a climate when journalists are threatened by political and economic forces, we need to fiercely protect local journalism. News stories we bring to our
readers are completely supported by local businesses, organizations and individuals. And, though we are surviving, we are conscious of our limitations.

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This is the Place to Find Montpeliers the makeover, the better chance you have to win one
Summer Construction Info. of the many prizes packages.
Important information regarding Makeover Montpelier Alive is working with the VTrans outreach
Montpelier: coordinator to ensure good communication with our
local businesses, the community and visitors alike.
Paving work will take place overnight, 7 p.m. to
7 a.m. Look for weekly updates released every Thursday.
Some sidewalk work will take place until 11 a.m. Mark these pages for up-to-date construction information:
Shoppers will always be able to access their favorite downtown businesses. City Website Page:
http://www.montpelier-vt.org/923/2017-Construction-Communications-Homepag
There is plenty of evening parking in lots behind City Hall and Positive Pie off
of Main Street and next to Julios Cantina off of State Street. Makeover Montpelier Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/makeovermontpelier/
The community is invited to like the Makeover Montpelier Facebook page to stay
informed of weekly construction updates, contest details and giveaways planned for Montpelier Alive Facebook:
#Makeover Montpelier Mondays. The more you shop and eat downtown during https://www.facebook.com/MontpelierAlive/

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PAG E 4 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Planning Director Warns Nuisance/Demolition Ordinance

May Stretch Staff by Micheal Bielawski

MONTPELIER According to Planning city with the tools to actually bring down a sentiment. impact the life and safety of the community
and Community Development Director structure, via condemnation or enforcement It is an extreme measure, so how we couch and are a critical link to economic development.
Michael Miller, the proper enforcement of a actions. that in this ordinance I think would be pretty In particular we may have French Block, One
recently proposed nuisance zoning ordinance In his memo, Miller said that his concern important and setting some barriers and Taylor Street, and CS project (in Sabin's Field
may not be possible, as their current staff is that the new tasks would carry heavy parameters. Im not sure what that looks like. next to the river) all moving to construction in
is already stretched out with its current administration burdens especially when addition to the regular run of permits.
workload. Council member Justin Turcotte said, yes,
combined with the real possibility that other but with some extra caution built in. As part of his memo, Miller also states the
This had been mentioned before by Miller at properties in the city will also be eligible for inspector (Lumbra) would continue to back
the April 26 City Council meeting, but Miller enforcement action. If you are telling someone to destroy a piece up Fire Chief Robert Gowans as assistant
further reiterated it in a memo to the council, of their own property, I would be strongly in health officer and recommends City Council
Chris Lumbra is the citys current building favor of kind of a 2.5 that builds in a little bit
and again it was a topic at last Wednesdays inspector, and Miller holds high regard for add a part-time position to deal with the new
council meeting. more time and attention to the development of nuisance ordinance. As these quality of life
his qualifications and his work. Furthermore, this plan and how its administered, he said.
The idea behind a nuisance ordinance is that he said Lumbras primary responsibility to the (quality of neighborhood) ordinances are very
if an old building is allowed by the owner city is enforcement of safety and fire codes With that comment, Hollar said that in important and will have beneficial outcomes
to deteriorate, creating safety hazards and/or and helping contractors meet project goals, not the event an owner fails to participate in for surrounding neighbors, the council should
bringing down property values, the city would condemning buildings for demolition. remediation to a complaint, only then would consider adding a part-time position to act
be able to take further action beyond just the the city start to take action. as an enforcement officer for these types of
Miller suggested if the council is serious about ordinances. This would allow someone whose
initial quick repairs that are usually done taking on this new role to try and take down Millers memo goes on to list other properties
under todays rules including demolition. primary job is enforcement to fulfill these roles
buildings, then they should consider hiring a in town that, were this ordinance to pass,
and responsibilities. Otherwise, Miller writes,
One of the primary properties that appears to new part-time professional who can focus in would become eligible for action by the city,
As long as these ordinances are being enforced
be prompting this ordinance is the old Brown on this role. at least after a complaint. Those properties
as a secondary responsibility of the building
Derby restaurant adjacent to the Econo Lodge include 3103 Elm St. (three structures), Old
At the start of the second public hearing at last inspector, we will continue to fall short of our
building. Many city leaders want to get rid Humane Society on North Branch Island, 65
weeks council meeting, Mayor John Hollar communitys and Councils expectations.
of it, but their current zoning rules just dont Berlin St., 41 Northfield St., 24 Hubbard St., 5
posed the question to the council, should this Home Farm Way, 260 River St. (Grossman's), Another matter of discussion was if the
allow for that. ordinance include allowing the city to take Jay Street garage, 4-1/2 Sibley St., 12 Charles city will be walking a fine line legally as it
It is clearly a blight on the neighborhood and down buildings? St., 14 Charles St., 97 Barre St., 244 Berlin St., determines which of all these properties to
finding a solution to get this area cleaned up Council member Jean Olson said shes OK 14 George St., 240 Spring Hollow, 12 North pursue and which to leave alone?
is important, wrote Miller to the council. with it. College St., 10 Main St. (City owned
We have rules in place to enforce and require Im a little bit concerned that we are kind
I think its an extreme measure, and I dont former Association for the Blind), scorekeeper/ of opening ourselves up to some legal issues
abandoned buildings to be safe and secured equipment shed at the Little League field.
but we do not have the power to require the think its anything that we would take lightly, where we are basically intending to have
demolition of those structures. she said. I do think it demonstrates how In his memo, Miller writes, The Building arbitrary enforcement of this, said council
seriously the city takes some of these questions, Inspector should continue to prioritize his member Rosie Krueger. And that seems kind
Miller states it seems obvious to him that so I would be in favor of including it. responsibilities for permitting, inspection and of shaky.
the intent of this ordinance is to provide the enforcement of the Building Codes. These
Council member Anne Watson reiterated that Montpelier City Manager Bill Fraser fielded
this one.
I dont think its arbitrary, we know weve had
a specific problem, we know weve had active
complaints and so that would be our highest
priority, he said. Its kind of like, the police
department has to prioritize enforcement on
certain things sometimes and will have to let
things go.
There was a public comment from Kelly
Weston, who said she lost a building she
owns to a fire and didnt have the money
or insurance to deal with it. Fire Chief Bob
Gowans took this one.
There certainly are situations where people
just dont have the means to take care of the
situation, he said. They are trying, but you
know, they had a fire, its been destroyed, it
needs to be taken care of and they dont have
the means to do it.
He added that they will take these situations
into consideration, and that they should be
able to separate those who cant deal with
an old building from those who do have the
means but just choose not to.
This was the second public hearing on this
topic.
Michael Bielawski is a freelance writer for The
Bridge. He can be reached at Bielawski82@
yahoo.com.
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 5

HEARD ON THE STREET

Free Bike Helmets for First 25 Children May 20 Williamstown. Further investigation revealed the men had a June 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Households from around Montpelier
hotel room rented at the Hilltop Motel located on Airport Road are invited to unload all those treasures that have accumulated
NORTHFIELD Free bike helmets will be offered to the first
in Berlin. The suspects were Michael Krasin, 19, Springfield, in the attic and the garage over the winter in this popular
25 children (ages 512) May 20 at the Spring into Sports event
Mass.; Victor Guzman-Hernandez, 30, Indian Orchard, Mass.; community event. For just $25 you will be provided with a
at Green Mountain Family Practice, 87 Paine Mountain Rd.
and Augustin Mendoza, 25, Springfield, Mass. distinctive sign, have your sale location identified on a citywide
The free event is open to the public and runs from 9 a.m. to map distributed the week before the sale, and have your sale
A search warrant for the hotel room at the Hilltop Motel was
12 p.m. Co-sponsored by Bicycle Express Racing, the event promoted in a variety of media sources. And the proceeds from
granted and later executed. After which, approximately 650 bags
includes bike fittings, a childrens bike rodeo and a group bike your sale are all yours! Nonprofits are encouraged to participate,
of heroin, 28 grams of crack cocaine, 44 grams of cocaine and
ride along local trails. For walkers and runners, slow-motion and their sales will be highlighted on the map. Applications
prescription medication were located. Also located in the hotel
gait analyses and 20-minute functional movement screenings can be downloaded from the Montpelier Alive website, www.
room was a large amount of U.S. currency, which was also seized
will assess musculoskeletal alignment, core strength, balance montpelieralive.org; they are due Friday, May 19. Join your
by troopers. The suspects were each charged with Aggravated
and flexibility. Findings will guide Central Vermont Medical friends and neighbors in this great community event. For more
Assault and Robbery, Heroin Trafficking, Possession of Cocaine
Centers Rehabilitation Therapy staff as they offer participants information, email [email protected].
and Possession of Stolen Property.
customized tips for optimal movement during physical activity.
Rehabilitation Therapy and Green Mountain Family Practice Law Office Gets New Associate Coffee Corner, Out; The Blue Stone, In
staff will be available to answer questions throughout the MONTPELIER The Law Office of Amy K. Butler, Esquire MONTPELIER The Coffee Corner, a beloved diner on
morning. Some activities require advance registration. Visit has announced our new associate, Denise Bailey. Bailey earned State and Main since 1959, is changing hands. It will be replaced
www.cvmc.org/springintosports to sign up. Learn more at www. her undergraduate degree at Yale University, and her JD at by The Blue Stone, primarily a pizza purveyor, owned by
cvmc.org/our-services/rehabilitation-therapy. University of Virginia School of Law. Baileys practice focuses Waterbury-based Blue Stone, Inc. Principals in the company are
on criminal law, appellate law, labor and employment law as President Christopher Fish and Vice President Vincent Petrarca,
Econo Lodge Police Stakeout Leads to Arrests according to the Secretary of States website. The company was
Cache of Drugs, Money at Hilltop Inn well as other forms of administrative law. Butler concentrates on
bankruptcy, estate and divorce. Butler and Bailey are located at incorporated February 6, 2014 and, under business description it
BERLIN Police report seeing a man being beaten by three 64 Main St. The website address is http://amykbutlerlaw.com/. reads, PIZZA WORLD DOMINATION!
men May 9 at around 4:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Econo
The Blue Stone also operates restaurants in Waitsfield and
Lodge Motel on Northfield Street. The men then fled in a Citywide Tag Sale Deadline May 19 Waterbury. But you can get more than pizza there according
vehicle. Members of the Vermont Drug Task Force were staking
MONTPELIER Montpelier Alive and the Washington to https://www.bluestonevermont.com/food. The menu includes
out the motel for suspected drug activity.
County Youth Service Bureau/Boys and Girls Club are excited salads, burgers, stews, macaroni and cheese, fish and chips as well
Troopers from the Middlesex barracks caught the men in about their third annual Citywide Tag Sale to be held Saturday, as a large selection of pizza. And a large selection of draft beer.

Policing Policy Clarification from Montpelier Police

Department Chief Tony Facos
MONTPELIER Here are the following facts related to Montpelier Police Departments Fair and both federal and state law.
Impartial Policing Policy modifications: I have attached the key documents that underpin Montpelier Police Departments current Fair and
Although the Department of Homeland Security Boston Division did list Montpelier, the only Impartial Policing Policy. It is also important to note that my comments made before the Montpelier
Vermont jurisdiction listed, as a sanctuary jurisdiction, we were far from the only city and town City Council are still as true today as they were then. In order to provide effective policing to any
in Vermont with policing policies that fit that definition. community in the United States, trust and legitimacy are paramount. Victims need to feel safe in
As police chief, I have not received any communication from anyone from Department of coming to the Montpelier Police Department when they need help. Responding to those victims,
Homeland Security or the Department of Justice regarding our policies or our sanctuary city status. regardless of their civil immigration status, is our duty.

On February 22, several Vermont police chiefs and I met with Department Public Safety Sent to The Bridge by Montpelier Police Chief Tony Facos.
Commissioner Tom Anderson to discuss the state mandated Fair and Impartial Policing policy
elements (Title 20 VSA 2366), sanctuary jurisdictions, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions concerns,
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations and
related federal laws (8 USC 1644, 8 USC 1373, 19 USC 1401, 8 USC 1355).
On March 2, 2017, Vermont Attorney General T.J. Donovan issued a 15 page report Guidance
to Vermont Cities and Towns Regarding Immigration Enforcement. This report, along with
Montpelier Police Department policies, and state and federal laws were discussed internally with
City Manager William Fraser and Mayor John Hollar.
In March, I had several discussions with U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahys staff about sanctuary jurisdictions
since Montpelier appeared on the Department of Homeland Security list. Sen. Leahy was watching
this issue closely.
On March 28, 2017, Gov. Phil Scott signed S. 79: An act relating to freedom from compulsory
collection of personal information into law. (Had I not changed Montpelier Police Departments
policy, the enactment of S.79 would have superseded the older language that I had removed.) Mayor
Hollar and I were both present at this bill signing. It was the enactment of this legislation that
ultimately required Montpelier Police Department to modify our policy in order to comport with
PAG E 6 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

A Message From City Hall

This page was paid for by the City of Montpelier.

With New Ordinances, New Assistant City

Manager, Montpelier Moving Forward
by John Hollar, Mayor

Zoning Bylaws This month, the council was further

informed that it has the power under
A fter many years of work, the Planning Commission has presented the City
Council with its recommendations for a comprehensive rewrite of the citys
zoning regulations. Since receiving this proposal in March, the council has heard
state law to order the demolition of
properties that remain in a state of disrepair and deterioration after an order is
nearly five hours of public comment, received many written suggestions, and has issued to clean up a property.
begun reviewing it in detail. The council has given its preliminary approval to an ordinance that would
Montpelier residents have consistently expressed two broad visions for the city: authorize the city building inspector to investigate complaints of properties that
1) increase housing; and 2) dont change the character of the city and its have become a public nuisance. If the inspector finds that a property is a nuisance,
neighborhoods. he or she will submit a report to the city council with abatement recommendations.
The city council will then hold a hearing and, if necessary, require the owner to
Those goals are not easy to reconcile when it comes to preparing zoning bylaws. If adopt a remediation plan. If the owner fails to submit or comply with a plan, the
we are successful in increasing housing in a meaningful way, then obviously some city can pursue a variety of remedies, including requiring the demolition of a
aspects of the city will change. On the other hand, if we dont allow changes to structure.
any of the citys neighborhoods we wont be able to address the significant need
for new housing. Final approval of this ordinance is expected at the councils May 24 meeting.

The Planning Commission attempted to reconcile these competing views by Montpelier as a Sanctuary City
creating zoning bylaws that reflect development as it exists today. The commission
created the 90% rule to guide its decisions, which means that 90 percent of the
existing properties in a neighborhood will conform to the new zoning.
T here has been some confusion about recent changes to the citys policy
regarding fair and impartial policing standards. In response, the city released
the following statement last week:
Some residents particularly those in the Towne Hill area have said the 90% The City of Montpelier and the Montpelier Police Department remain committed to
rule works in neighborhoods where there is little variation in lot sizes. However, the principles of fair and impartial policing and protecting the human rights of all
in areas such as Towne Hill, where there are significant differences in lot sizes, the who are within our city limits. The city has not changed its philosophy or practices
rule could result in a major reduction of average lot size and create higher density with regard to interactions with non-U.S. citizens. Following the guidance issued
development. by Attorney General Donovan and the legislatures passage of S.79 supported by
Many residents, including those in the Towne Hill area, have expressed concern Governor Scott, Police Chief Facos made two amendments to departmental policy to
that the proposed ordinance could result in significant changes to the character of remain consistent with statewide policy. Communication and cooperation with Federal
their neighborhoods. The issue of changed zoning densities across Montpelier will law enforcement partners is occasionally necessary in order to conduct a criminal
be a major focus of the councils discussions. investigation and support victims of crime. Absent the requirements of a criminal
investigation, the Montpelier Police Department does not inquire about immigration
Residents have expressed a variety of other goals for the zoning ordinance, status. Montpelier remains a safe and welcoming community for everyone.
including:
Preservation of the historic development on Main Street from School Street to
the roundabout;
Removal of the unique design review regulations that currently apply to the Cliff
Street neighborhood;
Consistency of the regulations with the recommendations of the Sabin's Pasture
Area Working Group, a coalition of stakeholders who were assembled by the
Trust for Public Land in October 2007. This group developed a plan for future
use of the Sabin's Pasture property that has been widely supported, and many
would like to see the property zoned in a manner consistent with this plan.
The city council will be reviewing these and many other issues over the next two
months. Our goal is to approve a final ordinance by mid-July.
If you have questions or comments about any aspect of the proposed zoning
ordinance, please contact me or other members of the city council, members of the
planning commission, or planning director Mike Miller.
* Please thank these Planning Commission members for their countless hours of service:
Leslie Welts (Chair), Jon Anderson, Kim Cheney, Barbara Conrey, Tina Ruth, John
Adams and Kirby Keeton.
Public Nuisance Ordinance
A big thank you to the Trash Tramps who pick up litter downtown year-
R esidents in the Northfield Street area appeared before the city council one year
ago to express concern about the dilapidated condition of the building and lot
adjacent to the Econo Lodge. This property has been abandoned and vacant for
round every Tuesday afternoon. From left to right, Trash Hollar (guest
tramp), Sister Sludge, Tots for Trash, Eileen Dover, Sanitation Sue and
Sakholder Sue.
years and has become an increasing eyesore as well as the site of illegal activity. The
council directed city staff to explore potential
ordinance changes to address this problem.
Welcome to Sue Allen
The city council was recently informed that
it had the authority to adopt an ordinance
regulating properties that do not necessarily
W e are pleased to welcome Sue Allen as
the new assistant city manager. Sue
brings a wealth of experience in government
create a threat to public safety, but which are
and journalism to this position. Many of us
in a state of disrepair and deterioration. In
who have worked with Sue know that she will
response, the council directed city staff to
be a tremendous asset to the city with her
prepare an ordinance authorizing the city to
organizational skills, knowledge of state and
direct the owner to make necessary upgrades
local government and media experience.
to the building.
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 7

KNEELING: Tyler Carlson, Bob Danaher, Danny Martin, Brian Reed,

Manager Lynn Ribolini, Dave Carbo, Alan Neveau, Dick Cody and
Sheldon Prentice. STANDING: Coach Morrison, Bill Carpenter, Mike
Conti, Denny Duckett, Mike Magnant, Gary McQueston, Dick Kemp,
Shawn Healy, Greg Boardman, Assistant Coach Salterelli

From the 1967 Montpelier High School Yearbook

Bring Back the Glory Days

A 50-Year Celebration for MHS Baseball Champs by Nat Frothingham
MONTPELIER On June 3, 1967 to 12 games of the regular season and you game on Saturday on two days rest after a McQuesten said. He was a great guy.
50 years ago an underdog but talented had to have a winning record to make the Wednesday 10-inning win over Rutland. Then he shared a memory of Morrison. You
Montpelier Solons (Division One) baseball playoffs. Pitching for the Solons was Bob Danahar, take one look at him, the smile, you can tell
team, surprised themselves and a lot of We made the playoffs, Prentice said. But remembered by McQuesten as a great, great the kind of guy he was. He was a great coach,
fans, by overcoming the Burlington High added, We werent on the radar. pitcher. He had very good ball control, a good a great athlete. He had a twinkle in his eye.
School Seahorses (the state defending fastball, a good curve, good placement. He was a happy guy.
playoff champions) in a 4-0 win that made As Prentice remembers it, We ended up
Montpelier High School 1967 state playoff winning two or three playoff games. Then Yes, it was hot, very hot. According to Danahers death was more recent.
champions. the Solons headed for Centennial Field McQuesten, Danahar threw almost 200 Said McQuesten,Three or four years ago I
in Burlington for the title contest against pitches in 100-degree heat. He held the got his phone number from a buddy of mine
That 1967 championship win will be Burlington High School. Burlington Seahorses to four hits and pitched
celebrated at a dinner for players, friends and who sent me his number by email.
During the regular season Burlington High a full nine innings.
fans at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Montpelier When McQuesten reached Danaher by
on Saturday, May 27 beginning at 6 p.m. School was one of the few teams that had On the hitting side, both McQuesten and phone Danaher said hed been having
won against the Solons and Burlingtons John Prentice got hits. McQuesten got a double but some problems. He said he was at the end
What was Montpelier High School like in Luman who pitched in the championship did not score. I must have been stranded on
1967? of the line and nothing could be done. Two
game against Montpelier had three playoff third. I remember standing on third (base). weeks later, I heard he died of cancer.
One student at the time remembered wins in 1966 and his overall high school A highlight of the game was the two runs
principal Dr. Robert Chasteney as a man games won record coming into the critical The 1967 team some sadly have died. But
Montpelier scored in the fourth inning. many will attend on May 27.
who ruled the school with an iron fist. Gray playoff game was 18 wins. According a news account, With one out
R. Coane was Assistant Principal. And some Gary McQuesten a lawyer in Barre over Denny Duckette tripled to right field, and Dick Cody who laid down the bunt and
of the many respected, well-remembered the past 40 years played second base. then Dick Cody laid down a bunt in what scored in the fourth inning will be there.
teachers were: Anthony Rocchio (English), And he remembers some of the big lead-up should have been a suicide squeeze play, but Cody who went on to West Point after
Tom Saunders (English), Stanley K. Bond moments in preparation for the June 3 game. Cody beat out the throw to first. A walk and graduating from Montpelier High School
(History), Carolyn Silsby (Biology) and a fielders choice moved Cody to third and rose to the rank of General and then Vice
Johan F. Naess (Biology and Earth Science). Speaking of coach Morrison, he said, He Chief of Staff in the U.S. Army.
worked us like the dickens the night before then one of Lumans throws bounced off the
But for the baseball players it was coach Burt (the big game) putting us through our pad of Burlington catcher Hermie Bove, and Also attending will be McQuesten, Prentice
Morrison who appears to have won a special paces. He was drilling ground balls at us just Cody scored. and J.B. McCarthy, the current baseball
place in their hearts. as hard as he could. We had some great hitters. We had a great coach who will present the Miles Prentice
Morrison is described as the popular, athletic, ball club, McQuesten said, summing award to a student, yet to be named, as
As game time approached, the stakes were the baseball team's current most valuable
soft-spoken but very competitive football, high. up. And Bob Danaher and Dan Martin
basketball and baseball coach. alternated as pitchers. player.
According to McQuesten, Morrison invited Talking about any of the current Montpelier
In 1967 and this was before Union 32 players, parents, everybody around to his But on to the May 27 dinner at the Capitol
High School opened in September 1971 Plaza Hotel. High School baseball players who might be at
house for a steak feed after the game. But the May 27 dinner, McQuesten said, These
Montpelier High School was then a large Ill tell you one thing, Morrison said, Were McQuesten, who is heading up the local
(Division One) school. kids are going to sit there and say, Who are
going to have that steak feed whether we win arrangements said about 20 people have these old men?
Sheldon Prentice, Class of 1968, played or lose. But that steak is going to taste a whole already signed up.
outfield on the 1967 playoff championship lot better if we win. Its all a matter of perspective. Speaking for
We had a guy who thought he couldnt come the 1967 team that is gathering for the dinner,
team. He remembers 192 student in his own A chief memory of outfielder Prentice, who his wife was sick and now hes coming,
graduating class. He estimates a total school he said. The old friends are the best friends.
got a hit in the game, was the weather. It was McQuesten said.
population that was very close to 800. That a hot day very hot. Gary McQuesten has pulled together all the old
compare dramatically with todays school But because they have died, neither Morrison clipping and photos and turned it into a short
number of 312. Taking the mound for Burlington was the big nor Danaher will be there. video that will be given out at the May 27
lefty John Luman. Luman, according to one Morrison died of a heart attack in his early dinner. The background music for the video is
As Prentice remembers it, there were the 10 news account, was pitching the June 3 playoff 60s while cross country skiing at Joes Pond, Bruce Springsteens Glory Days.

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PAG E 8 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Montpelier and Roxbury Voters To Decide On School Merger June 20

Continued from Page 1

For Montpelier, the benefit of a merger most often cited by merge under the law cannot be forced by the state to take
merger supporters is that it will bring more students into part in additional mergers. Therefore, one reason cited for
Montpelier and Roxbury
the schools, and thus more money from the state Education supporting the Roxbury merger was that it might inoculate By the Numbers
Fund. Steve Hingtgen, one of the Montpelier committee Montpelier from any further state-mandated mergers.
Montpelier Roxbury
members who favors the merger, said that by far the most But this year the legislature has amended Act 46 in a bill
powerful reason to support this unification is because that, among other things, explicitly states that districts
Montpelier will add 80 students to our enrollment, with 40 like Montpelier with more than 900 students are exempt.
or 50 of them eventually coming to Montpelier buildings. So, assuming the governor signs the bill, Montpelier will
Montpelier has excess capacity in its middle and high be under no obligation to merge, voluntarily or as part
schools and arguably in our classes, he said. of a state-mandated plan. The bill also allocates an extra
Adding this many children to a school district is a dream $150,000 in transition funds to merging districts, Guiffre
come true for Vermont schools, Hingtgen said. Did you noted.
know that Montpelier is currently working hard to recruit Act 46 is a law that seeks to combine school districts in order
a handful of students from Asia to help stabilize our tax to save money and offer more opportunities to students. It
rate? If this unification goes into effect, we will increase our was passed partly in response to the declining school
size by dozens of students from just 30 minutes away rather population in Vermont in recent years, which has been
than halfway around the world. accompanied by rising school property taxes. Montpeliers
Roxbury
Montpelier committee member Nancy Reid, who voted school population declined for a time, but the citys student Union Village
against sending the merger plan to voters, sees the numbers numbers are now rising as larger classes enter Union School School
differently. Based on projections of class sizes, she thinks the Elementary School.
problem of small class sizes in Montpelier High School may Prospects for the Montpelier-Roxbury merger have had
be a short-term problem as larger numbers of students flow their ups and downs over the past few months as Montpelier
in from lower grades. In the school year 20192020, 41 members wrestled with the issue. At one time, it appeared
students might be added to the high school from increased that a vote on the merger was unlikely to occur any time
student population in Montpelier itself, she said, while only soon. At a March 30 meeting, for example, current merger
three students would be added from Roxbury that year, proponent Steve Hingtgen said the merger should not go
with the merger. on the ballot this spring because it would not pass, but
All additional students are an advantage for Montpelier in he later changed his mind after becoming more confident
the short term, but these three additional Roxbury students in financial projections. Other Montpelier members also
come with a hefty price tag given the cost of staffing expressed reservations at that meeting. (Sources: Wikipedia, Report of Montpelier-Roxbury Act 46 Study Committee,
Vt. AOE website.)
and maintaining the Roxbury elementary school, paying The prior week, on March 21, Montpelier school business
for services previously covered by the Washington South manager Grant Geisler had said at a public hearing, in
Supervisory Union, transporting Roxbury students to and response to a question from the audience, that if he were
from school and after-school activities and paying tuition to
grandfather Roxbury students to other area high schools,
a Montpelier taxpayer he would vote against the merger,
in part because he said he did not trust some of the
Voters Will Also Choose
Reid said. assumptions about future staffing at the Roxbury school. New Unified School Board
Montpelier committee member Jim Murphy, in contrast, Geisler said this week that he kind of stepped in it when
believes the merger with Roxbury provides a sure fire At the same time that Montpelier and Roxbury voters will be
he made those comments, implying he should not have
way for Montpelier to increase and stabilize enrollment to deciding whether or not to merge their school districts, they
answered the question. Asked about his current stance, he
ensure that robust budgets can be put forth in future years will be asked to vote for a new school board made up of seven
said he would defer to the committee, which he noted had
without heavy tax burdens. Montpelier members and two Roxbury members, who would
made refinements to the original financial projections that serve only if the merger is approved.
Murphy also noted: Roxbury is a more rural community he helped prepare and that these projections now show a
with a different socio-economic mix that shares a strong small tax benefit for Montpelier after five years, rather than Because of the population imbalance between the two com-
commitment to education. This is a chance to embrace the a small loss. munities, Montpelier would get more school board members
diversity Montpelierites value. Roxbury has a much smaller Merger committee member Paul Carnahan, who backs the and they would have two votes each, while Roxbury members
population, covers four times as much area, still has some merger, said he was uncertain himself how he would vote in would get one vote each.
working farms, and the percentage of low-income students the end. Among his concerns was the possibility of student
in the Roxbury Village School (57.1 percent) is more than If the merger passes, the existing Montpelier and Roxbury
numbers at the Roxbury elementary school declining in school boards would still exist during a transition year, along
double the number in Union School (25.6 percent). the future. Closing the school and requiring the youngest with the new unified board, but would then be disbanded.
One other reason cited by supporters for backing the students to take a bus to Montpelier could be a difficult
merger has recently disappeared. When Act 46 was being step, he said, but he ultimately decided that the decision Any Montpelier resident interested in running for the new
discussed, and even after it was passed, most observers could be left to a future school board, if it ever becomes school board must submit by May 21 a petition, with 30 sig-
thought Montpelier was exempt from any requirement to necessary. natures, indicating whether they are running for a one, two or
merge, Dale said. But the Agency of Education later ruled Carnahan says he supports the merger because bringing three-year term, according to City Clerk John Odum. Since
that Montpelier and other large single-board districts were more students into Montpelier schools gives Montpelier a that day is a Sunday, petitions submitted on May 21 should be
not exempt. put in the drop box at the back of city hall, he said.
However, Act 46 also says that districts that voluntarily Continued on next page

New Construction
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T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 9

fighting chance of keeping our taxes stable. He elaborated: If there is an expenditure problem, we
the voters and the school board can work together to cut back. Expenditures are totally within our
control; student population is not. So I think we ought to boost our enrollment now so that we can
weather a storm in the future. Residents To Discuss
Merger committee member Tina Muncy, who at one time thought the merger question should be
left to the voters, eventually voted against that course. I voted no because, although there is not a
significant disadvantage to Montpelier, I did not find there was a significant advantage, she said. I
Potential Merger of
do not find it compelling from Montpeliers perspective educationally and I am concerned that there
could be some future risk financially.
Montpelier and U-32 by Phil Dodd
She added: Over the years, we would add one or some years two children to each classroom in some
grades in the middle and high schools. Would this make a significant difference in the education of
Montpelier students? M ontpelier resident Heidi Tringe, who favors a merger of the Montpelier schools
with the Washington Central Supervisory Union that operates U-32 and has
said that a Montpelier-Roxbury merger does not make geographic sense, is organizing a
In any case, a public vote is set to occur. The chances of Roxbury voters approving the merger seem meeting to discuss a potential Montpelier-U-32 merger on Monday, May 22 at 7 p.m.
relatively high, though Guiffre said there are Roxbury parents unhappy with the prospect. The at the Montpelier High School.
outcome in Montpelier appears more uncertain, if only because not many residents have been fully
engaged in the debate to this point. The meeting, open to the public, will be a gathering for people interested in pursuing
a potential merger, she said. Tringe hopes to develop a groundswell of public support
What will Roxbury do if the merger vote fails? We would scramble to see if Northfield or Randolph for moving forward.
would take us, Guiffre said. We want to be able to educate our youngest students in town.
Tringe has been circulating a petition in favor of a merger of Montpelier and U-32 that
But Guiffre and merger committee members will be doing everything they can to convince the has been signed by over 150 residents of Montpelier and the U-32 towns. She said she
public in both towns to vote in the affirmative. Guiffre said members will be speaking to business plans to submit it to the appropriate school boards after the June 20 vote on a Montpe-
groups, handing out information at the Montpelier Farmers market, discussing the merger on lier-Roxbury merger.
ORCA, talking to students, teachers and parents, submitting Op-Ed pieces to newspapers and
The benefits for Montpelier of a Roxbury merger are much smaller for Montpelier
promoting the merger with a website, Facebook page and posting on Front Porch Forum.
than for Roxbury, Tringe noted, but she acknowledged a merger with Roxbury would
The committee members who favor a merger will also hold public meetings at the Roxbury Village not necessarily preclude a merger between Montpelier and U-32 in the future.
School at 2:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. on June 5, and at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Montpelier High School on Tringe also expressed concerned over a possible $6 million bond that is being dis-
June 6. Dissenters Muncy and Reid do not plan on attending the meetings. cussed by the Montpelier School Board. Before we move forward with that bond,
Montpelier ballots could be available for early voting as soon as May 29, according to Cty Clerk we need a full discussion of the issue in light of a possible merger with U-32, she
John Odum. The ballot itself will include three other questions beside the merger. The other articles said. For example, spending money on the Montpelier middle school now might not
involve electing a school board for the new district, modifying the city policy for granting tax make sense if that building would not be utilized following any Montpelier and U-32
stabilization agreements to businesses to cover personal as well as real property, and asking whether merger, she said.
dogs should be leashed in Hubbard Park. Odum said the latter article could significantly increase Tringe can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 272-7853.
voter participation.

Correction
In a Heard on the Street item published in the May Got a news tip? We want to know!
417 issue, the name of a former business on 15 Send it to us at: [email protected]
Langdon St. was incorrect. The correct name is D. W.
Edson Press.
PAG E 10 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Home Improvement Off To A Booming Start by Carla Occaso

MONTPELIER/BARRE Homeowners Indoor home improvement is also strong. picking up in interior improvements, too. a nice caramel, burnt orange, a soft burnt
and builders are off to an active start this People are replacing older doors and windows. Gagne, who specializes in paint, said a lot of orange; sagey greens.
year. The Bridge called a random sample of The kitchen and bath business is also hopping, people are redoing their kitchens and cabinets Kimmich echoed Emily Heberts observation
businesses dealing in remodeling supplies to Allen said. in some cases simply with a fresh coat of that grays are all over in the interior design
find out what customers are doing. According The Bridge visited Allens Kitchen & Bath paint. Popular colors in this area are mostly world, but not so much in Vermont, which is
to them, building and home improvement showroom in Montpelier and saw new designs off-whites and neutral tones, but some of the perhaps a mistake.
activity is higher than in recent years. Below is guided by Emily Hebert, kitchen and bath deeper colors are making a showing as well.
a sample of responses. Gray has not raised its head here yet, but
consultant. Hebert said the color gray was the The Benjamin Moore color of the year for gray is a great color. If you get the right shade,
Allen Lumber Montpelier, Barre, trend in kitchen design and pointed to a gray- 2017 is called Shadow. This color is allusive it can work, Kimmich advised. Also on the
Waitsfield and St. Johnsbury colored set up with granite counters. It also and enigmatic a master of ambiance, color trend horizon, blue is coming back.
As soon as the mud season weight limit signs had a handy spice rack that pulled out from a according to the website benjaminmoore.com. Navys are hot this year and corals are hot
come off back roads, the building business narrow drawer near the sink. The cabinets and To the eye it looks like a dark grayish purplish. this year ... sometimes coral and teal. It is
really picks up, said Burnie Allen, co-owner of workstation were also gray. Gagne said that while this shade has not taken spectacular.
Allen Lumber. We cant do any business until Aubuchon Hardware Montpelier, Barre, off locally, it is part of a national trend.
Kimmich said she is surprised more
the concrete trucks go through, Allen said. Waterbury and more True Colors Blinds & Design, Montpelier Vermonters dont embrace drapery. Drapery
Nationally, there is a surge in first-time-home- Aubuchon Hardware on 40 Main St. in And speaking of colors, Kate Kimmich, is practical because it keeps out the cold.
buyer home improvement spending, Allen Montpelier sells just about everything to window fashion consultant for True Colors Another good insulator is called honeycomb
said. Central Vermont is going to be very people who are fixing up their house inside Blinds & Design at 141 River St., says she is shades, which keep out the heat and the cold.
busy. Allen has talked to local realtors who and out. The store has fencing and gardening seeing a splash of color in the industry that has When working on lake houses, Kimmich said
advise him that more houses than usual are supplies from shovels and rakes to seeds and not quite caught on in Central Vermont. But people like screen shades that keep out UV
being snapped up. We are finding quite a few pesticides (natural and chemical). You can she is working on it. rays, but allow residents to see the view of the
folks coming this way that can get outstanding also find flower bulbs and lawn care tools Her specialty is window treatments and lake. Window treatments perform multiple
values on and fix up the homes. And we are still such as trimmers and mowers for outdoor interior design. functions including light control, insulation,
building new homes. improvement. privacy and decoration.
I believe in window treatments, Kimmich
As for construction trends, Allen said people And for building supplies, Aubuchons sells told The Bridge by phone May 16. It is hard True Colors Blinds & Design also offers
lean towards green building the practice a wide range of items from screws, nails and to realize value of treatment drapery or a flooring. The upcoming material is called
of energy efficiency. A lot of products are hooks to tools, window shades and plumbing well-fitting shade until they are in. When Mannington Adura Max, a vinyl that strongly
geared toward saving the environment. For supplies. a window treatment goes into a room, it really resembles hardwood flooring.
example, a new insulation is called Roxul, And good news is coming out of those who finishes (a room).
which is made from stone and steel slag. It is Kimmich said she sees a rise in the window
work with builders. Contractors seem to be Kimmich said blues, pinks, peaches and treatment business, which speaks well of the
spun like cotton candy, resists fire and muffles busier than last year. They are booking out
sound. In addition, Allen said he sells a lot of greens are starting to show up on shades, economy. Working alongside Kimmich is Bill
months in advance versus a week or two, valances and blinds. Earth tones are the most McQuiggan, owner, and Jordan Bushey, who
metal roofing in many styles. said Nick Gagne, paint specialist. Things are popular in this area, and warm tones such as measures and installs items.

Sears Hometown Store in Berlin Going Strong by Nat Frothingham

BERLIN According to its local owner, Tom Coulter, the Sears Hometown Store is going closings, property sales and concerns about its business performance. But this has nothing to
strong. In fact, said Coulter, Its thriving. do with the health of the Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores or the Berlin Sears Hometown
What is more, the local Sears Hometown Store is looking forward to serving its valued Store.
customers for many years to come. We want to make sure our customers know that we are here to stay, Coulter said.
In a recent press release, Coulter drew a sharp distinction between the Berlin-based Sears Then he reminded customers of the range of merchandise and service that the Berlin
Hometown Store and Sears Holding Corporation. The Hometown Store, Coulter emphasized, Hometown Store supplies. Here he got specific mentioning the Stores wide selection of top
should not be confused with Sears Holding Company because Sears Hometown and Outlet appliance brands such as: Kenmore, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Frigidaire and GE plus a large
Stores of which the Sears Hometown Store is a part, made a complete break with Sears assortment of lawn and garden equipment, Craftsman tools, fitness equipment, mattresses and
Holding Corporation in October 2012 and the two corporate entities are now separate. more.
In recent months, the Sears Holding Corporation has been in the news because of its store On the service side of the equation, Coulter mentioned the Berlin Sears Hometown team. This
team, he said, provides customers with professional advice, exceptional service and real-time
price checks to make sure customers get the guaranteed lowest prices around. Then he added,
The Berlin store also offers Sears Nationwide Service, Parts and Installation.
The Sears Hometown Store in Berlin is located at 1598 US Route 302 (Barre-Montpelier Road.)
For further information, please go online to http://www.searshometownstores.com or call 479-2541.

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Montpelier Crossing Guard Michelle Pitzner

Heads Up, Slow Down by Nat Frothingham

MONTPELIER If youve seen school crossing guard eventually became an instructional assistant at Montpelier
Michelle Pitzner at her Montpelier corner location where High School; her son is now 22 years old.
Hubbard Street crosses East State Street, you wont easily In the intervening years, Pitzner held a number of different
forget her. With her winning smile, personal warmth, jobs within the schools. Shes been an interior painter at all
safety yellow magic cape, eight-sided stop sign and the Montpelier schools, and even got school authorities at
orange traffic cone, Pitzner is a friendly and effective the high school to switch from a lifeless beige to the use
presence for the many schoolchildren and their parents, as of the school colors green, white and gold. The halls
well as any skateboarders, cyclists, motorists or pedestrians are white with green stripes topped off with gold on the
out for a walk. ceilings.
On Fridays as a reminder that the week is ending, Pitzner As if that werent enough for one persons rsum, Pitzner
dips a bubble wand into a soapy solution and blows big also worked for a time as a mental health professional, and
colorful bubbles across the intersection. I want to lighten spent several years taking care of people with disabilities.
it up and let the week go, she said. Whats unforgettable These days she has two part-time jobs: in addition to
about Pitzner is the deep well of joy, love, optimism and crossing guard, Pitzner recently took a position at Another
genuine caring that she shares all day long. Way, a drop-in and recovery center on Barre Street.
Pitzner was born in Rhode Island. She is a 13th generation But her work as a crossing guard has always been a
descendant of Roger Williams, the free-thinking renegade constant. Somehow it always works out, she said. It
preacher and dissident who fled the suffocating Puritan seems for some reason Im supposed to do this.
strictures of Massachusetts to found the first white
settlement, in what eventually became Rhode Island. When Pitzner started work at Another Way, the director
said she didnt want Pitzner to give up her crossing guard
Pitzner spent her childhood in Connecticut and grew job. We want you there, the director told her . Shes got
up attending a school that was largely modeled on the her kids in the school district, Pitzner explained.
Goddard College idea of education. She and her family
started visiting Vermont when she was around nine or 10 I help the parents. I try to keep everyones spirits up. I
before finally moving here permanently. Photo by Michael Jermyn try to be optimistic and positive in these trying times. I
try to remind parents they do have these precious children
Still, her Rhode Island roots run deep. I love research, and they need to be present with them. Most of my kids,
I love history and Im a lifelong learner, Pitzner told The Bridge. Way back in her family I know them by name ... most of the parents too. There are too many names to remember
lineage, her great, great, great grandmother was a State of Rhode Island historian, so Pitzner them all, but still I remember every face.
comes by her fascination with history naturally.
Im the mom on the corner, Pitzner continued. If I see a kid thats in trouble, I offer to
During her time in Vermont, Pitzner has done a lot of different things in addition to help. Sometimes kids just need a hug. In the winter, I remind to pull their hoods up and zip
being a crossing guard. For about 20 years, she worked in restaurants. She holds a Class up their coats.
B Commercial Drivers License. Shes a qualified paralegal with an associates degree from
Woodbury College and earned a Bachelors degree in psychology and holistic healing from About her Hubbard and East State Street corner, she said, Im in a cool spot overlooking
Union Institute and University. the beautiful State House. When Im not there in the summer my lifes not quite the same.
Montpelier is a generous community. People bring me coffee, or sometimes a gift certificate
While she was living in southern Vermont, she worked for a time for C&S Wholesale for a gelato. Someone brought me a box of hand-warmers. I really appreciate it.
Grocers in Brattleboro, where she injured her back.
Pitzner realizes how important her crossing guard job is to the Montpelier community. I
My son was starting school, she said, which brought me to Montpelier. He was four-and- only have two hours a day, five days a week, to make an impact, she said. I coordinate that
a-half. With an injured back, there wasnt much I could do. I started out as a crossing guard intersection. Its a total balancing act.
in front of Union Elementary School. The two of us had the same school hours. Pitzner
Its not one person driving a vehicle,
Pitzner continued. One persons actions
affect many other people. Things can
go very wrong very fast. Children dont
even know about risks. They think theyre
invincible. And sadly, we know theyre not.
Im doing my best to keep our children,
to keep everyone safe, Pitzner said. Im
working with everybody. If I had one thing
to say to everyone it would be, Slow down.
Make room for others.

Rocque Long
Painting
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experience
local references.
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PAG E 12 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

The Gary Residence:

New Name, New Look, Same Great Care by Nat Frothingham

MONTPELIER As part of a board-approved Kellogg-Hubbard Library, voting, shopping, visiting

name change that became effective on April 1 with friends on the street and visiting Montpeliers
The Gary Home, a Main Street landmark for popular farmers market in good weather.
75 years and counting will become The Gary The range is 80 to 100, Provost said, Mid-80s and
Residence. up, Provost said about the age range when people
Already theres a new sign over the front door: typically come to live at The Gary Residence. We
The Gary Residence. just had a lady come in, she remarked, shes 102.
In a recent meeting at The Gary Residence a On come the baby boomers, said Provost happily
few days ago, Executive Director Dawn Provost about the generation of people born after World
explained the logic behind the name change and War II.
then talked about a makeover project already Weve been here for 75 years. We want to stay
underway to give the first floor common spaces current and up-to-date and the changes to the
of The Residence fresh paint and color, more light paint, flooring, windows with added color and light
and a new, contemporary look. promise to give a fresh look to the downstairs
Heres how Provost explained the April 1 name common rooms the Sunroom, the Dining Room,
change, In an effort to provide clarity to its the Middle Room, the Library once these changes
mission and to its level of care, the Board of have been made the whole downstairs will show
Trustees of OM Fisher Home, a local non-profit off The Gary Residence in Provosts words as a
charitable organization, have approved changing place of classy elegance.
the name of The Gary Home to The Gary On the day of our visit, the Residence was humming
Residence. with activity. A workman was moving furniture out
When The Gary Home first opened its door in of one room into another. Someone else was running
1941, it provided lifetime skilled nursing care. But a vacuum cleaner. In the Library, John Snell of the
over the years as new state regulations took effect, Montpelier Tree Board was giving a talk about trees
what was The Gary Home became a licensed in the capital city. In another room a resident was
Level III Residential Care Home. sitting for an artist who was creating a likeness of
Wes Merriam and Joanne Crowley-Watkins him out of clay.
So over the years the level of care has changed
and the new name The Gary Residence expresses that. Were not just a skilled nursing Light is very important, said Provost. Color is very important. So, too, at The Gary
home, Provost said. You can keep your car here. People can have their mobility. Residence is yoga, tai chi, gardening, and the pleasure of dining, talking, laughing and sharing
Despite the name change, what hasnt changed, said Provost, are the values of warmth and life with others.
caring and the same great care that has always described the experience of living at The Gary Please go online to www.thegaryresidence.com for further information about The Gary Residence.
Home and now The Gary Residence these things endure. The Gary Residence will hold an Open House on Thursday, May 25 from 3 to 7 p.m. and Friday,
In recent years, what has changed noticeably are the residents themselves who are living May 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors are invited for refreshments and an opportunity to view the
longer, staying active, and who can be seen outdoors, walking downtown, going to the Residences new upgrade plan.

Please support The Bridge by making a financial contribution.

Visit montpelierbridge.com and click on Make a Donation.
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 13

Celebrating 50 Years

Capital Campaign Building Rendering

Montpelier Senior Activity Center Celebrates 50th

Anniversary by Carla Occaso

MONTPELIER A small group founded the Montpelier Senior Activity Center on Barre The Fire and Reconstruction
Street in 1967. So it is fitting, in celebrating its 50th year with a Gala Senior Prom June 10,
In December 2009, a fire forced the closure of the building and a relocation to St. Michaels
the theme will be The Summer of Love.
School next door. The fire had caused pretty extensive damage to the lower level of the
Also fitting since more and more members are baby boomers the generation who spawned building and collapsed the floor to the mezzanine level, said Gregg Gossens, founding
The Summer of Love. partner of gBa (Gossens Bachman Architects) who had worked with a team to design an
The center has become one of the most lively and happening places downtown. It may sound update for the center for the City prior to the fire.
counter intuitive, but on a recent day when I walked in, there was a bustle of people a The fire damage made the need to address the facility much more urgent, Clar said. She
group upstairs hearing a presentation on money scams, a yoga class upstairs, some people credited the late Garth Genge, formerly Community Development Specialist with the City
playing cards and another group doing crafts in the sun splashed art room. But it began of Montpelier, and other committed community members with pulling together federal
much smaller. funds and grants, and teaming up with a housing organization and the Vermont Division
of Historic Preservation to refurbish 58 Barre St., which was built around 1932. But they
In the Beginning
did far more than simply refurbish. A team created 14 apartments in the upper floors to
It started out as a little club in a much smaller facility where people would gather to play be managed by Montpelier Housing Authority, rehabilitated a common area for residents,
cards and do activities, said Director Janna Clar in a recent interview with The Bridge. renovated the senior activity center area and kept an existing playground.
Originally located at 18 Barre St. with 60 members, membership soon swelled to 200.
Architect Gossens took the lead in designing a rehabilitated version of 58 Barre St.
The center moved to 28 School St. in 1975 and to 58 Barre St. in 1981. And this year,
membership has topped over 1,100. Now, the center is once again under consideration We were asked to weigh-in on what could be done with that building some time ago,
for expansion. Clar credits high participation to interesting and useful services and classes Gossens told The Bridge by phone May 12. We made a few proposals in a report what it
provided to a maturing population of Central Vermont residents, primarily in Montpelier, would take to rehabilitate it for any kind of use. One included housing and improving the
but many members live in surrounding towns. senior center.
The center also recently merged with the City Gossens said he and a team of architects laid the groundwork for a complete overhaul.
of Montpelier Recreation Department and Gossens said it was a beautiful old building that needed to be updated. It was an energy
Parks and Trees Department to streamline hog. It was underutilized, but it was a sound building that just needed a lot of updating.
administrative functions in 2017.
Continued on next page
But things havent always been smooth sailing.
PAG E 14 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Celebrating 50 Years

Swinging over 60 Band, 1989

So Gossens presented a plan to city council and then they decided to take it to the next step
and put the project in the hands of city staff, which at that time was Garth Genge. Genge,
along with development consultant Jeff Kantor worked with Gossens to come up with
presentations and paperwork to go after grants.
Engelberth construction was hired to do the construction.
I am just thrilled that the stars aligned themselves to make better utilization of what is
a new and improved senior center. What a great match to have senior housing above it,
Gossens said, adding, I cant emphasize how important Garth Genge was to this. He
was great. He was the catalyst that brought this to fruition. He was the one who put it all
together.
Construction was complete by 2012.
Once a new building was in place, new people came on board with new ideas that have led
to even more revitalization. Janna Clar started as director in 2011.
Burgeoning Programming
After we moved back here to this beautiful, new, bright space, membership began growing.
The senior population is actually growing faster than some other nearby towns, Clar said
We saw a rapid increase in programming. We add classes each quarter. Classes more than
tripled in number, from around 20 to around 70 now. Most popular are the movement
classes, but other offerings in a wide variety of disciplines are also well-attended. Clar
said most of the time, class ideas come to the center from community members who are
interested in teaching. A lot of that is due to what a vibrant community we have. People
step forward to offer things.
Since merging with the Recreation Department, and Parks and Trees Department, program
ideas have also expanded. We have an opportunity to serve people throughout their whole
lifespan, said Dan Groberg, director of programs and development. We have been cross
training our staff to be able to serve the senior center and the recreation department. We
work as a team (with Parks and Trees Director Geoff Beyer and Director of Recreation
Arne McMullen).
For example, families with young children would register for summer swimming lessons at
58 Barre St., but young children wont run amok during senior-only activities and meals.
Some activities are open to all, however.
The most popular category of class is yoga, with 19 classes a week, Groberg said. There
are 550 people enrolled in classes in all. Other classes include strength training, writing,
language, a film series with Rick Winston (former owner of the Savoy Theatre), Tai Chi
and calligraphy. Writing classes have led to a literary magazine called Sunflower, which is
supported by Groberg and writing teacher Maggie Thompson.
Joan Barrett, also a member, leads an exercise class called Living Strong (using free weights
and balance techniques) that has 30 students. She also takes in yoga and participates in other
programs. It is great for fitness. They have wonderful programs. There is something for
everyone. Theres almost too much to take in.
Over 80 percent of our participants tell us they feel healthier as a result of the classes,
Groberg said. The average age for members is 69, which is younger than the average senior
center.

Continued on next page

FEAST Meal in 2014

T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 15

1985 Valentine's Day 1981

And some of the programs take participants out of the building

even out of the country. Recently center members have been going on

Celebra
ting 50 Years
Said Groberg, We are really proud of our history and excited to build
trips. In fact, Clar just returned from a trip to China. on it.
We designed programming to dovetail with the China trip, Clar
said. In the fall we did a Rick Winston Film Series by Chinese director Summer of Love Senior Prom
Zhang Yimou. They also offered a Chinese language class and other Which leads to the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration and
China-oriented activities. Then, this spring they visited China for 10 days, visiting the Great senior prom fundraiser on June 10. U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy will attend. Clar and
Wall, The Forbidden City and other places. Clar has a background in the subject having Groberg will premiere a video about the history of the center. Fred Wilbur (former owner
taught Chinese language the University of Massachusetts a while back. of the Buch Spieler record store) will be the disc jockey. To play into the Summer of Love
Other previous trip destinations include Sedona, Arizona and Italy. Future, smaller trips theme, people are invited to wear hippie or other 60s attire, or any clothes they choose. There
include a Montreal museum trip June 1 and a Fathers Day trip to Fenway Park June 25. will be a nice meal and an auction.

We encourage people to come check it out because it is not what you would think it is, Details:
Groberg said, suggesting people get over their fear of coming to a place called a senior 50th Anniversary Gala and Senior Prom Saturday, June 10, 5 to 10:30 p.m. at the Capitol
center. It is a vibrant place. Senior is not a four-letter word. Plaza Hotel in Montpelier. Expect music, dancing, food and fun, with a 60s theme to
celebrate our founding in 1967. Start at 5 p.m. for appetizers and dinner and a special
The Future program to celebrate. Tickets including dinner are $50. Or come after dinner for a dessert
We are really excited about the future, we see demand continue to grow, Clar said. We buffet and dancing to music by DJ Fred Wilbur. Tickets for dessert and dancing only are
hope to meet demand as it grows and we really enjoy being a part of making Montpelier a $20. All will enjoy a cash bar, fun photo booth, silent auction and wonderful 60s-themed
great place to live and a great place to age. decorations.
Clar also noted the volunteerism is incredible with over 150 volunteers including the FEAST For more information call 223-2518 or go to the website www.msac50.brownpapertickets.
meal program. Volunteers help with everything from trip planning, mailings and instruction. com/.
And the participation leads to social enrichment. People can come do activities with existing
friends and make new ones.
The added participation has inspired Clar and Groberg to think about ways to expand. We
are fortunate to have more participation and more resources, but we feel our staff is too small
for what we are doing. Fundraising for future development continues to be a top goal, but
fortunately some very generous donors have stepped forward. The center received a bequest
of $450,000 from Bob and Christina Jackman when Christina passed away a few years ago.
We are really proud of our history and excited to build on it, Groberg said. Fortunately
some very generous donors have stepped forward. In 2014, the Center received a bequest of
$450,000 from Bob and Christina Jackman, when Christine passed away a few years ago.
Many people in Montpelier remember Bob Jackman, a senior center stalwart, who was the
Centers program director from 1985 to 1997.
PAG E 16 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Events that happened outside Montpelier in 1967:

Members Speak Out The Summer of Love is held in San Francisco.
Kathy Switzer, wearing bib No. 261, was the first woman to run in the Boston Marathon
F rom the video to premiere at the senior prom, Teo Zagar, videographer, inter-
viewed several people who are deeply involved in the center. Below are a tiny
portion of the responses from two very involved members.
even though the marathons official, Jock Semple, tried to push her out.
Elvis Presley married Priscilla Ann Beaulieu at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas.
Ronald Reagan, past movie actor and future President of the United States, is inaugu-
Bob Barrett, member, chair of advisory and program committees rated the new governor of California.
Barrett: Weve lived in Montpelier for about 15 years and weve been members for Louis Leakey announces the discovery of pre-human fossils in Kenya; he names the spe-
almost this entire time The impact on my life is that it has kept me very active cies Kenyapithecus africanus.
after working. When you retire, you are looking for interesting things to do. Youre The United States, Soviet Union and United Kingdom sign the Outer Space Treaty.
looking to stay active. Some of us have a creative impulse so you are looking for ways
to be creative. So this has become an avenue for me to do those things The Jimi Hendrix Experience release their debut album, Are You Experienced.
The Beatles release Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, nicknamed "The Soundtrack
Maggie Thompson, writing teacher of the Summer of Love"; it will be number one on the albums charts throughout the
Thompson: Those who are writing memoir have lived long lives. One of our par- summer of 1967.
ticipants is 96. A lot of them are in their 60s, 70s or in their 80s. So they have a vast US Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain was captured in a lake in Hanoi after
array of experience and it is really rewarding for them to put it on paper. It is a way his Navy warplane was downed by Northern Vietnamese army.
for them to gain a perspective on their life from looking back. And what did an ex-
Race riots in the United States spread to Washington, D.C..
perience give them? Other benefits are the social benefits. Many of the participants
in my classes return quarter after quarter. And then there is also an influx of new The musical Hair opens off-Broadway. It moves to Broadway the following April.
faces each time so it makes for a dynamic mix. Friendships form. Other interests Approximately 70,000 Vietnam War protesters march in Washington, D.C. and rally
evolve and there is a really nice rapport of respect and camaraderie. And I think they at the Lincoln Memorial; in a successive march that day, 50,000 people march to the
have a good time. Pentagon, where Allen Ginsberg, Abbie Hoffman, and Jerry Rubin symbolically chant
to "levitate" the building and "exorcise the evil within."

Remembering Our Veterans Event

MONTPELIER Montpelier Senior Activity Center is Veterans of Foreign Wars; FEAST Senior Meals; North
launching an inaugural event this month honoring local
veterans and members family and friends who have served
Country Honor Flight program; Home Share Now; John
Lincoln and the Barre-Tones members, are all participating Celebrating 50 Years
their country. Remembering Our Veterans will be held with an opening Honor Guard flag presentation ceremony,
indoors at the center, 58 Barre St. on Friday, May 26 BBQ Chicken luncheon, short video presentation about the
from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Art work, veterans photos and North Country Honor Flight program, an Open Mic for Patty Paola
memorabilia will be on display in the community room sharing thanks and memories, and a patriotic sing-a-long.
until June 16. Recently featured on a WCAX story, the program offers
The event was the brainchild of Patty Paola, a Vermont a guided tour, at no cost to WWII, Korean and Vietnam
Housing and Conservation Board AmeriCorps Member. She Veterans to visit war memorials built in their honor in
was conducting an Independent Service Project involving Washington, DC.
elder veterans. After Patty reached out to staff at the Call 262-6288 for more information or any of the requests
center, the project evolved into a Memorial Day event she below:
christened, Remembering Our Veterans. Launching it on If you would like to attend you must make a reservation, as
the Friday before each Memorial Day weekend, seemed like space is limited call, 262-6288.
a perfect fit for Montpelier Senior Activity Center to honor
all Veterans, as well as its members family and friends. The If you would like to attend but need transportation, and we
center is grateful to Patty for her significant contribution to will try to accommodate all mobility needs call 262-6288.
its mission to serve and represent all Montpelier elders. If you would like to have photographs, art or memorabilia
Local organizations including the American Legion and included in the show call 262-6288.

Happy 50th Birthday,

Montpelier Senior Activity Center!
From your Friends at The Bridge
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 17

City Hires Sue Allen as Assistant City Manager by Carla Occaso

MONTPELIER Sue Allen, former deputy chief of staff for Governor Peter Shumlin as Fraser wrote in an announcement, Sue brings extensive background in public service and
well as former managing editor of The Times Argus (among other credits), has been named leadership. We will benefit from her well established communication skills and battle tested
assistant city manager for the City of Montpelier May 9. She will start May 22. experience with government service delivery. Her familiarity with state government will help
Allen will fill the shoes of former Assistant City Manager Jessie Baker, who had served from the city on many projects and initiatives.
April 2013 until February 2017, when she went on to take a job as city manager of Winooski. She is also familiar with Montpelier having lived on Upper Terrace Street for 15 years
Allen said that in many ways the new job dovetails with her previous experience in state following a year stint living on Langdon Street. I really love the city and know the city well.
government as well as journalism. It felt like a good fit. She said she has great respect for the city manager, Mayor John Hollar,
city staff and city council.
Historically, professionally Ive always been in public service. I would include journalism
in public service. That is important to me, Allen told The Bridge by phone May 11. The According to Fraser, Allen was selected from a very competitive field of 78 applicants hailing
assistant city manager job felt very comfortable to me. Asked what her particular area of from 27 states and two countries." The selection process included an advisory committee
responsibility would be, she said she has not yet gotten down to those details. But she said her consisting of former city council members, community representatives, department heads
role in state government has similarities to the job in city management, that is, facilitating and city staff. Her starting salary will be $87,000 annually.
services in an efficient and affordable manner as well as making sure roads are plowed, After working in the Shumlin Administration Allen worked for the Associated Press as a
paved and safe. Another parallel is that in working for the governor she had good teams in freelance writer and as a researcher for the Times Argus. She lives in Calais with her husband,
place to work with and she feels the same is true in City Hall. Jim Picone, a physicians assistant with Clear Choice MD urgent care clinic in Berlin.

Montpelier Alive Announces BIG July 3rd Parade Competition

Two $1,000 Prizes to be Awarded
re-purposed, discarded items, or items that the contest if the prize money is donated plan for all floats and costumes.
will be recyclable after the parade and/or to a local 501c3 charity like the Montpelier All parade competitors and participants
move through the parade using an electric Food Pantry. must submit a parade application by June
vehicle, animals or people power (pulling, Awards 12.
cycling). As well, show off your artistic
and performance talents through music, Winners will be chosen by judge and All parade competitors MUST indicate
dancing, puppeteers, clowns, gymnasts spectator voting. on the parade application that they wish
MONTPELIER Montpelier Alive whatever your talent, Montpelier wants to to enter the competition and wish to be
There will be two awards: 1. Best
is inviting the local community, non- see it! judged.
Performance Award 2. The Best "Green"
profits, schools, businesses, community
Winners will be chosen by judge and Float/Entry Award All Best Green Float/Entry Competitors
groups, churches and individuals to enter
spectator voting. To learn more about Each grand prize winner will receive $1,000 MUST adhere to the Green theme to be
the July 3rd Parade Competition. Union
the competition and voting criteria, visit in cash, post-event press, a trophy and most eligible to win.
Mutual, a long-time sponsor of the July 3rd
Celebration, has generously committed to http://w w w.montpeliera live.org/156/ importantly, bragging rights! All parade competitors MUST indicate on
be the exclusive underwriter of the new July Independence-Day---July-3rd the parade application that they have read
Judging Criteria
3rd Parade Competition in addition to being Union Mutual July 3rd Parade and agree to the Parade Details, Rules and
a Main Stage sponsor. The Union Mutual Best Performance Entries will be judged on Guidelines.
Competition Rules and Guidelines
July 3rd Parade Competition will feature quality of performance, costumes, audience
Categories reaction, and bonus points will be awarded All parade competitors must be in place
two awards: Best Performance Award and and ready by 5:30 p.m.
Best "Green" Float/Entry Award. Each Best Performance Entries This includes for incorporating the Green theme.
grand-prize winner will receive $1,000 in all bands, dancers, puppeteers, clowns, Best "Green" Entries will be judged on Montpelier Alive supports and promotes the
cash, post-event press, a trophy and most cyclist, gymnasts or whatever your talent! originality, overall appearance, artistry, vitality of Montpelier and its businesses to
importantly, bragging rights! quality of workmanship, costumes and assure the City continues to set and achieve
Best "Green" Entries This includes floats, economic and social goals for today and
Competitors are challenged to create decorated vehicles and other creative non- creative use of green materials. Points will
be awarded based on the percentage of beyond. We work to develop Montpelier
patriotic floats, costumes, decorations performance entries. as a center for social, cultural, retail and
and banners showcasing Green Initiatives float/entry constructed from reclaimed
Who is eligible to compete? building supplies, disposed of items and culinary experiences. Our downtown is
and/or Artistic Talent. Montpelier Alive quaint and made up of independently-
is looking for entries that use reclaimed, Businesses, Non-Profits, School Groups, items that will be recyclable after parade.
Sports Teams, Community Groups, Bonus points will be awarded for moving an owned stores and restaurants that, together,
Churches entry through the parade using an electric create a beautiful and unique experience for
Individuals vehicle, animals, people power (pulling, locals and visitors alike. Our Capital City is
cycling) and for reporting a green disposal full of small town charm as well as big city
Politicians and elected officials may enter amenities.

Cody Chevrolet Congratulates The Bridge

On Over 20 Years of Business!
PAG E 18 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Calendar
of Events
Community Events
kinds and thousands of books on all subjects.
Fri., 9 a.m.5 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.3 p.m. Cutler
Memorial Library, Rt. 2, Plainfield. 454-8306.
Friends of the Ainsworth Public Library Book
and Cookie Sale. Coincides with the towns
Events happening Memorial Day Parade, which kicks off at 11 am.
May 18 to June 3 Come early to stock up on books and cookies.
9 a.m.1 p.m. Ainsworth Public Library,
2338 Main St., Williamstown. 433-5887.
THURSDAY, MAY 18 ainsworthpubliclibrary.org.
American Faces: A Cultural History of
Portraiture and Identity. Talk by Middlebury Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism's
Colleges Richard Saunders exploring our Annual Plant and Seed Swap. A chance to
collective understanding of portraiture and its trade starts or divisions from your garden for
history in America. Noon. Vermont History plants you want instead. Nothing to trade? You
Museum, 109 State St, Montpelier. Free. 479- can buy plants for cash, which supports VCIHs
8500. vermonthistory.org clinic and apothecary. 10 a.m.2 p.m. VCIH,
252 Main St., Montpelier. 224-7100. Info@
Creating Consistency in Your Running vtherbcenter.org. Please bring labeled plants to
Practice. See event description on May contribute to the swap to VCIH from 9 a.m.2
10. 67:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop, p.m., May 16th May 19th or on Saturday,
Montpelier. Free. May 20 between 910 a.m.
Indie Lens Pop-Up: National Bird film Summit to Resist and Rebuild. Organized
and discussion. Offers rare insight into the by Central Vermont Citizen Action Network
American drone program through the eyes of (CVCAN). Local organizations working toward
veterans and survivors. 78:30 p.m. Kellogg- a common purpose of social, racial, economic
Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. and environmental justice can assemble tables
Free. 223-3338. www.kellogghubbard.org and share space to engage, educate and build
relationships with concerned citizens. Noon4
FRIDAY, MAY 19 p.m. Montpelier High School.
Spring Migration Bird Walks. Explore NBNC Talk: "Beyond Barriers: Thriving in Occupied
and other local hotspots for spring migrants, Palestine." With Mohammed Sawalha from
such as warblers, vireos, thrushes and waterfowl. Nablus, West Bank, Palestine. Learn from
Learn birding basics, expand your birding ear Mohammed about the reality of life in Palestine
and discover more. 78:30 a.m. North Branch after 50 years of military occupation by Israel. 7
Nature Center, 713 Elm St., Montpelier. $10; p.m. Trinity Methodist church, 137 Main St.,
free for members. northbranchnaturecenter.org Montpelier. Free. 917-4763.
Friends of the Cutler Memorial Library
Plant and Book Sale. May 1920. Annuals,
perennials, and vegetables plants of many
SUNDAY, MAY 21
Second annual Spring Roll. With Velo
kinds and thousands of books on all subjects. Vermont. More of a ride, less than a race on
Fri., 9 a.m.5 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.3 p.m. Cutler mostly gravel. No entrance fee, no frills. Expect
Memorial Library, Rt. 2, Plainfield. 454-8306. a fun casual vibe, some modest food and drink
Guided Partner Thai Yoga Bodywork. Come fare, warm sun and/or cold rain, and some
with a friend and relax your nervous system classic Vermont backroads. About 35 miles.
through grounded, healing touch. 67 p.m. 1 p.m Starts at Middleground, 961 US-2,
Hunger Mountain Coop, Montpelier. $8 Middlesex. http://velovermontvintage.blogspot.
members; $10 non-members com/
Remedies for Detoxification and Personal Green Mountain Club Work Hike. Stowe.
Growth. Just as we need to bathe regularly, Rain Date: May 21. All abilities welcome and
our inner organs also need regular cleansing needed as we work on the Long Trail north of
and detoxification to maintain good healthy Barnes Camp to Chilcoot Pass or to snow on
function. Dynamic evening of conversation and trail, plus Sterling Pond Trail. Bring Lunch
practice where you can learn simple remedies to and work gloves. Wear sturdy boots and work
detoxify and grow in the process. 7 p.m. Jaquith clothes. Tools provided. Meet at 8:00 a.m.
Public Library, School St., Marshfield Contact Andrew Nuquist, 223-3550, or trails@
gmcmontpelier.org for meeting place.
SATURDAY, MAY 20 Wildflower Presentation. Join us for a
presentation on spring wildflowers of our
Spring Bird Walk. Rain date: May 27. Led by
Taber Allison and his son Alexander. We will region with Dr. Lauren Howard from Norwich
meet at the Stranahan Forest parking lot at University. Through slides and description
the beginning of Thompson Road (right off of he will bring new appreciation to the natural
Hollister Hill Road). 7:3010 a.m. For info call beauty of spring. Bring your wildflower
Jaquith Public Library at 426-3581 questions. 1 p.m. United Church of Northfield,
58 South Main St., Northfield. $10 suggested
Spring Into Sports. With CVMC Rehab
donation. 485-8347.
Therapy. A fun-filled morning of spring sports
activities for all ages. Meet sports therapy
experts, children's rodeo, group mountain bike MONDAY, MAY 22
ride, free bike fittings and more. 9 a.m.noon. News & Brews Meet Mark Johnson. Join
Green Mountain Family Practice, 87 Paine VT Digger for a discussion about what current
Mountain Rd., Northfield. 371-4242 topics are being investigated; coffee, pastries.
Friends of the Cutler Memorial Library 10:1511:15 a.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library,
Plant and Book Sale. May 1920. Annuals, 135 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 223-3338.
perennials, and vegetables plants of many kellogghubbard.org

Performing Arts
THEATER, DANCE,
STORYTELLING, COMEDY
May 1921: Contemporary Dance & Fitness Studio
Performances. 43rd annual performances. May 19 and 20, 7 p.m.; May 21, 1 p.m. Barre Opera
House, 6 N. Main St., Barre. Tickets available online at www.Tututix.com through May 19 for $15
for adults and $10 for seniors and children. Tickets will be available at the door the day of the show for
$20 for adults and $15 for seniors and children.
May 25: AMP Nights! River Arts and Sundog Poetry have partnered together to present a new series
of creative evenings which feature a special guest Artist, Musician, and Poet (AMP) who will share
their work through presentations and performances. 59 p.m. River Center Arts, 74 Pleasant St.,
Morrisville. $10. www.RiverArtsVT.org.
May 26: Bueno Comedy Showcase. A wide range of talented standup comics, from here & away,
working longer sets. 8:30 p.m. Espresso Bueno, 248 N. Main St., Barre. Free/by donation. 479-0896.
[email protected].
June 34: Peter Pan. Moving Light Dance recreates J.M. Barries story of the wild and beloved Peter
Pan and of the Darling childrens adventures in Neverland. June 3, 7 p.m.; June 4, 2 p.m. Barre Opera
House, 6 N. Main St., Barre. Adults $20; children $15. barreoperahouse.org.
 Calendar of Events
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 19

Live Music
Happy Folk (Americana) 8:30 p.m. Whammy Bar. 7 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 7:30 p.m. 31 No questions asked. Tickets are available through
May 26: Glenn Roth (fingerstyle guitar) 7:30 p.m. County Rd., Calais. Thurs., Free. whammybar1.com. tickets.Catamountarts.org or at the door.
Every Wed.: Open Mic May 26: Jazzyaoke. Sing the standards to a live
Sweet Melissas. 4 Langdon St., Montpelier. Free/ June 2: Kris Gruen
VENUES by donation unless otherwise noted. https://www.
facebook.com/sweetmelissasvt/.
six-piece jazz band; all lyrics provided. 7:3010:30
p.m. La Puerta Negra, 44 Main St., Montpelier.
Bagitos. 28 Main St., Montpelier. Open mic every
Wed. Other shows T.B.A. bagitos.com.
May 18: David Langevin (rag time piano) 68 SPECIAL EVENTS 613-3172. $5. [email protected]. wooo.tv
p.m.; Ricky Golden (acoustic) 8 p.m. May 1920: Capital City Concerts presents The June 1: Rock City in Concert! Barres one and
Center for Arts and Learning Free Music Fridays. May 19: Mark Legrands Honky Tonk, 5:30 p.m.; Sublime and the Mellifluous. Featuring longtime only Rock &Soul chorus with 35+ singers and one
46 Barre St., Montpelier. 1 p.m. Held outside with Peace in The Valley, 9 p.m. cellist of the Julliard String Quartet Joel Krosnick, rocking band! Our mission is to serve the residents
good weather. May 20: Kevin Atkinson (acoustic) 68 p.m.; and NYC violinist Laurie Smukler. 7:30 p.m. of Barre and Central Vermont through music by
May 19: John Smyth & Jenn Drunk and In the Woods (soul/funk) 9 p.m. $5. $1525. capitalcityconcerts.org. giving back to our community through our benefit
May 26: Lisa Carlson May 21: Live Band Karaoke with the Butcher May 19: Champlain Valley Unitarian concerts. The group will present an evening of
Blocks, 8 p.m. Universalist Society, Middlebury. songs from the sixties through the aughts, in four
Charlie Os World Famous. 70 Main St.
May 23: Open Mic, 7 p.m. May 20: Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., part harmony, with a great band. 7:30 p.m. Barre
Montpelier. Free. 223-6820.
May 24: D.Davis, 5:30 p.m.; UMLAUT (kraut Montpelier. Elks Lodge, 10 Jefferson Street, Barre. $10.
Every Tues.: Karaoke, 9 p.m1 a.m
rock) 8 p.m.
May 19: Bird Full of Trees (folk) 6 p.m.; May 20: Concert with Iain MacHarg on the June 4: Phil Ochs Song Night. Sonny Ochs,
May 25: David Langevin (rag time piano) 68
Tsunamibots/Blowtorch (surf punk) 9 p.m. Scottish Bagpipes. MacHarg is one of the Phils sister, has gathered a group of four superb
p.m; Carmen and Sam's Comedy Club, 8 p.m.
May 20: Scott Graves & Chris Martin (acoustic regions leading pipers. This is a fundraiser and musicians for this version of the Song Night.
May 26: Mark Legrands Honky Tonk, 5:30 p.m;
rock) 6 p.m.; Megan Jean & the KFB (Americana) the proceeds will go toward youth services. 7 From Brother Sun theres Greg Greenway and Pat
Guano Loco Disco, 9:30 p.m. $5.
9 p.m. p.m. Fritzs Barn, Marshfield. $810. Call for Wictor, plus Tom Prasada-Rao and Reggie Harris.
May 27: Andy Pitt (blues) 68 p.m.; Swillbillie
May 26: Frank Critelli (folk) 6 p.m. ; Clever directions: 426-3581. Local favorite, Paul Miller will be a special guest.
(rockabilly/cowpunk)/The Dirty Blondes, 9 p.m.
Girls/ Some Hollow (rock) 9 p.m. May 21: Diane Huling. Solo piano performance Timeless and timely music of 60s resistance, and
$5.
May 27: Jon Lackard Band (blues) 9 p.m. by classical pianist and composer Diane Huling activism, poetry and humora reminder of the
May 28: Live Band Karaoke with the Butcher
Espresso Bueno. 248 N. Main St., Barre. 479-0896. Blocks, 8 p.m. Reed. 4 p.m. Plainfield Town Hall Opera House, power of words and music in unsettled times. 7
Free/by donation unless otherwise noted. events@ May 30: Shaun and Friends rock AC/DC, 57 Rt. 2, Plainfield. Adults $15; seniors $10; students p.m. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier.
espressobueno.com. p.m.; Open Mic, 7 p.m. $5; special rate $5* *We want our concerts to be by donation (suggested $15-20). 454-7334
May 20: James Graham (blues/soul) 7:30 p.m.; May 31: D.Davis, 5:30 p.m.; Blue Fox (blues) 8 p.m. available to everyone. Request the Special Rate.

Nurturing Healthy Sexual Development. Readings with authors Patty Joslyn and Jan
Open communication with children, identify Alexandra Sandman. Patty Joslyn, author of
and respond to normal as well as concerning ru mi nate (meditations on mystical wisdoms)
sexual behaviors, answer childrens questions, and Jan Alexandra Sandman, author of White
and give children positive messages about Stones, Bones, and Mist: Authentic Movement
sexuality. 67:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop, and Living Prayer will be reading and signing
Montpelier. Free. books. 78 p.m. Jaquith Public Library, School
I Ching with Baylen Slote. Baylen will demystify St., Marshfield.
this ancient Chinese oracle. Part 5 of 5. 6:308 Indie Lens Pop-Up: Real Boy film &
p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., discussion. The coming-of-age story of Bennett,
Montpelier. 223-3338. www.kellogghubbard.org a trans teenager with dreams of musical stardom.
Monthly Book Group for Adults at Jaquith 78:30 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main
Public Library. For copies of the book, please St., Montpelier. 223-3338. www.kellogghubbard.
stop by the library. New members are always org.
welcome. Mays book: A Tale for the Time
Being by Ruth Ozeki. 7 p.m. Jaquith Public
Library, School St., Marshfield.
FRIDAY, MAY 26
Spring Migration Bird Walks. Explore
13 Stradomska Street: A Memoir of Exile and Middlesex Notch for spring migrants, such
Return Book Launch with Author Andy Potok. as warblers, vireos, thrushes and waterfowl.
Potok discusses his memoir about trips to Poland Pastels by Jayne Shoup on display at the Cheshire Cat, Learn birding basics, expand your birding
after having fled the country in 1939. 78:30 28 Elm St., Montpelier through the month of May ear and discover more. 78:30 a.m. $10;
p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., free for members. Directions are on our
Montpelier. 223-3338. www.kellogghubbard.org website to the places not at NBNC. www.
how to balance our cravings, how to create new northbranchnaturecenter.org.
and great habits! 67:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain
TUESDAY, MAY 23 WEDNESDAY, MAY 24 Coop, Montpelier. $3 members; $5 non-
Annual Sugar Social. Features Sugar Snow with
Remedies for Digestion and Energy. Enjoy an Grief & Bereavement Support Group. Open to pickles, doughnut, and hard-boil egg for $5.
members.
engaging discussion about practical ways to boost anyone who has experienced the death of a loved Maple Ice cream sundaes, and milk shakes will
one. 1011:30 a.m. CVHHH, 600 Granger Rd., Book Launch: Roads Taken: Contemporary be available. Also a Tag Sale with sport goods,
your digestion and gain more energy. 67 p.m.
Barre. 223-1878. Vermont Poetry With Editors Sydney Lea & books, kitchen items and much more at great
Hunger Mountain Coop, Montpelier. Free.
Chard deNiord. Anthology of contemporary prices. 9 a.m.4 p.m. The Center Church is
Exploring the Psychological Novel with Peter Wham, Bam! No Thank You, Scam. Vermont Vermont poets young and old, renowned
Dept. of Financial Regulations Department will located on Rt.100 next to Cold Hollow Cider
Burmeister. psychotherapist and organic farmer, and unestablished; books available. 78:30 Mill in Waterbury Center. 244-8089.
Peter Burmeister will read Chaim Potoks novels be discussing frauds, scams and other events that p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Hayes Room,
My Name is Asher Lev, and The Gift of Asher can result in residents losing substantial dollars. 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-3338. www.
Lev as the basis for a discussion of the way in Learn how to recognize financial abuse and
how to avoid becoming a victim to fraud. 11:30
kellogghubbard.org. SATURDAY, MAY 27
which works of fiction present the reader with Community Yard Sale. Benefit for the Jaquith
insights into significant aspects of personality. a.m.12:30 p.m. Twin Valley Senior Center, Library. 9 a.m.2 p.m. Jaquith Public Library,
6:30 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main 4583 US Rte 2, East Montpelier. 223-3322 THURSDAY, MAY 25 122 School St., Marshfield.
St., Montpelier. 223-3338. www.kellogghubbard. The Trinity Community Thrift Store Grand Montpelier Childs Garden Open House.
Annual Sugar Social. Features Sugar Snow with
org Reopening. Please join us as we reopen the Come check out our wonderful Early Childhood
pickles, doughnut, and hard-boil egg for $5.
store after a long hiatus. 46 p.m. 137 Main program at the Childs Garden! Experience the
Author Talk & Tasting w/Jeffrey Roberts: Maple Ice cream sundaes, and milk shakes will
St., Montpelier. Following the grand opening, simple beauty of the classrooms and a taste of
Salted and Cured. Learn about the craft of be available. Also a Tag Sale with sport goods,
the store will resume normal business hours as the daily and weekly rhythm, including bread-
curing meats with author Jeff Roberts and books, kitchen items and much more at great
follows: Tues., Thurs., Sat., 10 a.m.4 p.m. making, free play, and a simple puppet show.
sample Vermont-made salumi. 78:30 p.m. Bear prices. 9 a.m.4 p.m. The Center Church is
Children welcome! 4:306 p.m. 155 Northfield
Pond Books, 77 Main St., Montpelier. 802- Kick the Sugar Habit. We all get addicted to located on Rt.100 next to Cold Hollow Cider
St., Montpelier. RSVP: [email protected].
229-0774, [email protected], www. sugar at times, particularly at the holidays and Mill in Waterbury Center. 244-8089.
www.ovws.org
bearpondbooks.com through winter. Come learn how to kick this,
 Calendar of Events
PAG E 2 0 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Visual Arts
Through May 28: Studio Place Arts presents. Through June 3: Artists as Witness. Presented by Through June 30: Los Colores de Oaxaca.
Three floors of exhibits. SPA, 201 N. Main St., Dragon Dance Theatre and ARA. 22 watercolour Photographs by John Douglas (Flying Squirrel
Barre. studioplacearts.com images from the Straits of Mytilini, the refugee Graphics) of Vershire. Chelsea Public Library, 296
Main Floor Gallery: Seeing the Forests for the crisis and the effects of war on population VT-110, Chelsea.685-2188.
Trees. This show is inspired by the diversity movements. These works were created by Sam and
Through July 7: A Change in the Weather. Joint
EXHIBITS of woody plants and forests; it involves more Katah in a cooperative process that included all the
exhibit of photographs of the Alaska Arctic by
Through May 25: Laura Jane Walker, Studies in than 25 artists and includes nontraditional and steps of investigating, preparing and making and
Adelaide Murphy Tyrol and Richard Murphy.
the Art of Chance. Works are built on plywood traditional media. exhibiting the images. Our exhibit will include
TW Wood Gallery and Museum, 46 Barre St.,
panels manipulated through staining, burning, Second Floor Gallery: Silent Auction to drawings made, on site, on the island of Lesbos,
Montpelier. 262-6035 twwoodgallery@gmail.
and carving to form a textured background. Benefit SPA Programs: including artwork, crafts during the summer of 2016. also included you
com. www.twwoodgallery.org
Spotlight Gallery, Vermont Arts Council and other items. Wendy James and Rene Schall will see a number of copper plate etchings, which
office, 136 State St., Montpelier. http://www. are featured artists. have been hand painted. City Center, 89 Main St., Through Aug. 15: Summer in Abruzzo. Works by
vermontartscouncil.org/about-us/spotlight-gallery. Montpelier Jeneane Lunn & James Lund. Painting in pastels
Third Floor Gallery: Visual Jazz-Homage to or pastel pencils and watercolors. Morse Block
Through May 26: Paletteers Spring Art Show. the Earth by Roger Goldenberg, includes oil on Through June 10: The Front presents SHOW 17.
Deli, 260 N. Main St., Barre
Aldrich Library, Milne Room, 6 Washington St., canvas assemblages and a series of monotypes SHOW 17 is part of Vermont Arts 2017, a project
Barre. inspired by our Earths climate, weather and of the Vermont Arts Council. Featuring the latest
Through May 26: Vermont Pastel Society Art
geology. works of the collective gallerys Vermont-based
contemporary artists. 6 Barre St., Montpelier.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exhibit Color Comes Alive. Gallery hours: Through May 30: May Art Exhibits at Kellogg- May 2728: Open Studio Weekend at Blue Roof
http://www.vermontartscouncil.org/explore- Designs. Come for a tour of the bookbinding
Tues.Sat. noon4 p.m. TW Wood Gallery, 46 Hubbard Library. Stencil and spray paint
vermont-arts/vermont-arts-2017 studio, demonstrations and discounts on work. 10
Barre St., Montpelier. designs by DJ Barry and Poetry Banner Art by T.
Namaya. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Through June 16: Harriet Wood. Solo show of a.m.5 p.m. 846 Gallison Hill Rd., Montpelier.
Through May 27: Helen Day Art Centers Montpelier. 223-3338. kellogghubbard.org. paintings and sculpture. Goddard College Art http://blueroofdesigns.com/event/osw-spring2017/.
Student Art Show. Stowe Elementary, Middle and Gallery. Pratt Center, Plainfield. 802-322-1604. 229-1342. Free
High school students exhibit their artwork along Through May 31: Jayne Shoup. Shoup draws
with students from guest schools Peoples Academy inspiration from the beauty of central Vermont. Through June 30: From Nature to Abstract: May 2728: Paintings on Silk and Canvas. Visit
Middle Level and High School. 90 Pond St., Brilliantly colored pastel paintings depict Works by Maria Anghelache. Anghelache Maggie Neale's studio. Studio Place Arts, 3rd
Stowe. www.helenday.com. 802.253.8358 scenes from her rural neighborhood. Cheshire blends abstract objects and form directly from her floor, 201 N. Main St., Barre. maggieneale.com.
Cat, 28 Elm St., Montpelier. 223-1981. observation of the natural world. The Vermont 279-0774.
Through May 27: Susan Calza, LETS NOT cheshirecatclothing.com Supreme Court Gallery, State St., Montpelier.
PRETEND, its ordinary gold. Items found and
items made are gilded and layered with complex Through June 2: Spring Four-Ward. Watercolors Through June 30: Jo MacKenzie, Moments.
by four award-winning members of the Vermont Watercolor paintings on paper bring the bright, Send your event listing to
history and worldly responsibility. Artist reception:
May 26, 68 p.m. Axels Gallery, 5 Stowe Street, Watercolor Society: Lisa Forster Beach, Annelein airy, fresh light of spring and summer. The [email protected].
Waterbury. 802-244-7801 Beukenkamp, Gary C. Eckhart and Robert Governors Gallery, Pavilion Building, 109 State Deadline for print in the
OBrien. The Gallery at Central Vermont Medical St., 5th fl., Montpelier. Photo ID required for
Center, 130 Fisher Rd., Berlin. admission.
next issue is May 25

Grief & Bereavement Support Group. Open to 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-3338. www. community event hosted by Montpelier Alive
SUNDAY, MAY 28 anyone who has experienced the death of a loved kellogghubbard.org and benefitting the Washington County Youth
Groton State Forest Wildflower Hike with one. 67:30 p.m. CVHHH, 600 Granger Rd., Service Bureau/Boys & Girls Club. Sales
Green Mountain Club. Moderate. 6 miles. Big Barre. Free. 223-1878. at participating businesses, churches, civic
Deer-Osmore area. Contact George Longenecker SATURDAY, JUNE 3 groups, nonprofits and individual residences.
or Cynthia Martin, [email protected] or Hike Stowe with the Green Mountain Club. 9 a.m.3 p.m. Downtown Montpelier. http://
229-9787 for meeting time and place. TUESDAY, MAY 30 Moderate. 3.2 miles. From the Lake Mansfield montpelieralive.org/195/City-Wide-Tag-Sale
Bike Montpelier with Green Mountain Club. Trout Club, we take the Lake Mansfield Trail to
Annual Sugar Social. Features Sugar Snow with Adamant Blackfly Festival. Parade, pie contest,
Moderate. County Road to Bliss Pond Rd., Nebraska Notch and Taylor Lodge on the Long
pickles, doughnut, and hard-boil egg for $5. writers slam, live music, great food. Families
Adamant Rd., Center Rd., to Bliss Rd. and Trail, then return by the same route. Optional
Maple Ice cream sundaes, and milk shakes will welcome. Rain or shine. 9 a.m.4 p.m. Adamant
County Rd. Easy. About 13 miles although we additional 1 mile loop through the top of the
be available. Also a Tag Sale with sport goods, Co-op, 1313 Haggett Rd, Adamant. http://www.
could decide to go further. Wear helmet. Bring notch on the Clara Bow Trail, which is beautiful
books, kitchen items and much more at great blackflyfestival.org. [email protected].
lunch or get something at the Adamant Coop. but rugged. Spring wildflowers should still be
prices. 15 p.m. The Center Church is located 223-5760
Meet at Morse Farm at 10 a.m. Contact George blooming. Meet at Montpelier High School at 8
on Rt.100 next to Cold Hollow Cider Mill in
Plumb at 883-2313 or [email protected]. a.m. Contact Leader: John Page, Jpage@zclpc.
Waterbury Center. 244-8089.
com or 793-3857.

MONDAY, MAY 29 WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 Central Vermont Humane Societys 2017 Walk
for Animals. Join us for a fun filled, family-
Memorial Day Ghost Walk. It was 100 years
Elemental Queenship. Let the four queens of
the Tarot illuminate your path to sovereignty. friendly, dog-friendly fundraiser. You can help For more event listings
ago that our country entered World War 1. We CVHS reach the $70,000 fundraising goal.
will hear about the three Luce brothers that
Mind, body, soul, spirit. 67 p.m. Hunger
Mountain Coop, Montpelier. $8 members; $10 Games, contests, free refreshments, awards for the and event details visit
enlisted and what was happening on the home top fundraisers and an easy 2 mile walk through
front to support the war effort. 11 a.m. Hope
non-members.
Celebrate Life: Stories & Songs with T.
beautiful downtown Montpelier. 9 a.m.noon. montpelierbridge.com
Cemetary behind Congregational Church, Main Montpelier High School, 5 High School Dr.,
St., Waterbury. Hosted by Waterbury Historical Namaya. Author, artist, and musician T. Namaya Montpelier. 476-3811 ext. 110
Society and the American Legion. performs his new book Celebrate Life. Books
available. 78:30 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, City-wide Tag Sale. A unique and organized

Classifieds
HELP WANTED
SELECTBOARD ADMINISTRATOR
TOWN OF CALAIS
Collaborative, energetic person to assist
Selectboard. Ability to research, analyze,
communicate effectively, write grants.
Email [email protected] for Text-only class listings and
experience requirements, job description classifieds are 50 words for $25.
and pay. Call 249-8666 or 223-5112 ext. 11

FOR SALE Tell them

LUNCH TRUCK you saw it in
Call 802-522-7100 The Bridge!
 Calendar of Events
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 21

Weekly
or to donate tools call 802.661.8959. info@
HEALTH & WELLNESS KIDS & TEENS orexchange.com.
Turning Point Center. Safe, supportive place The Basement Teen Center. Safe drop-in space
for individuals and their families in or seeking
recovery. Daily, 10 a.m.5 p.m. 489 North Main
to hang out, make music, play pool, ping-pong
and board games and eat free food. All activities SOLIDARITY/IDENTITY
ARTS & CRAFTS St., Barre. 479-7373.
Sun.: Alchoholics Anonymous, 8:30 a.m.
are free. Mon.Thurs., 26 p.m., Fridays 3-10
p.m. Basement Teen Center, 39 Main St.,
Rainbow Umbrella of Central Vermont.
An adult LGBTQ group, meets every third
Beaders Group. All levels of beading
Montpelier. BasementTeenCenter.org Tues., 5:307 p.m. All LGBT adults and
experience welcome. Free instruction available. Tues.: Making Recovery Easier workshops, allies are welcome to attend for socializing,
Come with a project for creativity and 67:30 p.m. Read to Clara. Sign up for a 20-minute slot and
community building and advocating for
community. Sat., 11 a.m.2 p.m. The Bead Hive, choose your books beforehand to read to this
Wed.: Wits End Parent Support Group, 6 p.m. LGBT issues. MSAC, 58 Barre St., Montpelier.
Plainfield. 454-1615. special canine pal. Kellogg-Hubbard Library,
[email protected]
Drop-in River Arts Elder Art Group. Work Thurs.: Narcotics Anonymous, 6:30 p.m. 135 Main St., Montpelier. Sign up ahead: 223-
4665 or at the childrens desk. kellogghubbard. Friday Night Group. Social gathering of
on art, share techniques and get creative with Al-Anon. Help for friends and families of
org. LGBTQ youth, ages 13 22. 2nd and 4th
others. Bring your own art supplies. For elders Alcoholics. Fridays of the month, 6:30 8:00 pm. Free
60+. Every Fri., 10 a.m.noon. River Arts Story Time and Playgroup. With Sylvia Smith
Sun.: Trinity Church, 137 Main St., pizza and soft drinks. Supervised by LGBT
Center, 74 Pleasant St., Morrisville. Free. 888- for story time and Cassie Bickford for playgroup.
Montpelier (back door) 6:157:30 p.m. adults trained by Outright Vermont. Unitarian
1261. riverartsvt.org. For ages birth6 and their grown-ups. We follow
Church, Montpelier. For more info, email
Tues.: Bethany Church, 115 Main St., the Twinfield Union School calendar and do not
The Craftees. Crafts social group led by Nancy Nancy: [email protected]
Montpelier (basement) noon1 p.m. hold the program the days Twinfield is closed.
Moran every Fri. Bring craft and potluck. 10
Wed., 1011:30 a.m. Jaquith Public Library, Bowling. Rainbow Umbrella of Central
a.m.2 p.m. Barre Area Senior Center, 131 S. Wed.: Bethany Church,115 Main St.,
122 School St., Marshfield. Free. 426-3581. Vermont, an adult LGBTQ group, bowls
Main St., #4, Barre. $3. Register: 479-9512 Montpelier (basement) 78 p.m.
jaquithpubliclibrary.org. at Twin City Lanes on Sunday afternoons
Art Classes. Fridays Jan. 27March 3, 35 Thurs.: Bethany Church, 115 Main St., twice a month. For dates and times, write to
p.m. Twin Valley Senior Center, Rte 2, East Montpelier (basement) noon1 p.m Story Time for Kids. Meet your neighbors
[email protected]
Montpelier. To sign up or for more information and share quality time with the pre-schooler
Sat.: Turning Point, N. Main St., Barre, 5 in your life. Each week well read stories and
SPIRITUALITY
call Susan Crampton at 223-6954 or email p.m. (child friendly meeting)
[email protected]. spend time together. A great way to introduce
Bone Building Exercises. Open to all ages. your pre-schooler to your local library. For ages Christian Science Reading Room. You're
Every Mon., Wed. and Fri. 7:30 a.m. and 25. Every Thurs., 10:30 a.m. Cutler Memorial
BICYCLING 9:15 a.m. Twin Valley Senior Center, 4583 Library, 151 High St., Plainfield. 454-8504.
cutlerlibrary.org.
invited to visit the Reading Room and see what
we have for your spiritual growth. You can
Open Shop Nights. Volunteer-run community U.S. Rte. 2, E. Montpelier. Free. 223-3322. borrow, purchase or simply enjoy material in a
bike shop: bike donations and repairs. Wed., 46 twinvalleyseniors.org. Lego Club. Use our large Lego collection to quiet study room. Hours: Hours: Hours: Wed.
p.m.; other nights. Freeride Montpelier, 89 Barre Tai Chi for Seniors. Led by trained volunteers. create and play. All ages. Thurs., 34:30 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.2 p.m.; Wed., 57:15 p.m. 145
St., Montpelier. 552-3521. freeridemontpelier. Advanced class: every Mon. and Fri., 12 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., State St., Montpelier. 223-2477.
org. Beginners class: Tues. and Thurs. 1011 a.m. Montpelier. Free. 223-3338. kellogghubbard.org. A Course in Miracles. A study in spiritual
Twin Valley Senior Center, 4583 U.S. Rte. 2, E. Dads & Kids Playgroup. Playtime and free transformation. Group meets each Tues., 78
BOOKS & WORDS Montpelier. Free. 223-3322. twinvalleyseniors.
org.
dinner. Every Thurs., 57 p.m. For Dads and
their children ages birth5. Family Center
p.m. Christ Episcopal Church, 64 State St.,
Montpelier. 279-1495.
Lunch in a Foreign Language. Bring lunch and
practice your language skills with neighbors. Living Strong Group. Volunteer-led group. of Washington County, 383 Sherwood Dr., Christian Counseling. Tues. and Thurs. Daniel
Noon1 p.m. Mon., American Sign Language; Sing while exercising. Open to all seniors. Every Montpelier. fcwcvt.org Dr., Barre. Reasonable cost. By appt. only: 479-
Tues., Italian; Wed., Spanish; Thurs., French. Mon., 2:303:30 p.m. and every Fri., 23 p.m. Drop-in Kinder Arts Program. Innovative 0302.
Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., exploratory arts program with artist/instructor
Montpelier. Free. Register: 223-2518. msac@ Prayer Meeting. Ecumenical and charismatic
Montpelier. 223-3338. Kelly Holt. Age 35. Fri., 10:30 a.m.noon.
montpelier-vt.org. prayer meeting. Every 1st and 3rd Thurs.,
English Conversation Practice Group. For River Arts Center, 74 Pleasant St., Morrisville. 6:308 p.m. 8 Daniels Dr., Barre. 479-0302
students learning English for the first time. Sex Addicts Anonymous. Mon., 6:30 p.m. 888-1261. RiverArtsVT.org.
Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. For those
Tues., 45 p.m. Central Vermont Adult Basic Teen Fridays. Find out about the latest teen
552-3483. interested in learning about the Catholic faith,
Education, Montpelier Learning Center, 100 books, use the gym, make art, play games and or current Catholics who want to learn more.
State St. 223-3403. Type 2 Diabetes Self-Management Program. if you need to, do your homework. Fri., 35 Wed., 7 p.m. St. Monica Church, 79 Summer
Ongoing Reading Group. Improve your reading Education and support to help adults at high risk p.m. Jaquith Public Library, 122 School St., St., Barre. Register: 479-3253.
and share some good books. Books chosen by of developing type 2 diabetes adopt healthier Marshfield. 426-3581.
eating and exercise habits that can lead to weight Deepening Our Jewish Roots. Fun, engaging
group. Thurs., 910 a.m. Central Vermont Adult Musical Story Time. Join us for a melodious
loss and reduced risk. Every Tues., 10:3011:30 text study and discussion on Jewish spirituality.
Basic Education, Montpelier Learning Center, good time. Ages birth6. Sat., 10:30 a.m.
a.m. Kingwood Health Center Conference Sun., 4:456:15 p.m. Yearning for Learning
100 State St. 223-3403. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St.,
Room (lower level), 1422 Rt. 66, Randolph. Center, Montpelier. 223-0583. info@
Montpelier. Free. 223-3338. kellogghubbard.org. yearning4learning.org.
Free. Register: 728-7714.
BUSINESS, FINANCE, Tai Chi for Falls Prevention. With Diane Des
Mad River Valley Youth Group. Sun., 79 p.m.

COMPUTERS, EDUCATION Bois. Beginners and mixed levels welcome. 2:15

Meets at various area churches. Call 497-4516
for location and information. SPORTS & GAMES
One-on-One Technology Help Sessions. p.m. Barre Area Senior Center, 131 S., Main St., Bingo. Every Tuesday. Doors open 5 p.m.;
#4, Barre. Free. Register: 479-9512. games start 6 p.m. Twin Valley Senior Center,
Free assistance to patrons needing help with
their computers and other personal electronic Overeaters Anonymous. Twelve-step program MUSIC & DANCE 4583 U.S. Rte. 2, E. Montpelier. Free. 223-
devices. 30 min. one-on-one sessions every for physically, emotionally and spiritually Barre-Tones Womens Chorus. Open rehearsal. 3322. twinvalleyseniors.org.
Tues., 10 a.m.noon. Waterbury Public Library, overcoming overeating. Two meeting days and Find your voice with 50 other women. Mon., Roller Derby Open Recruitment and
28 N. Main St., Waterbury. Free. Registration locations. Sat., 8:309:30 a.m. at Episcopal 7 p.m. Capital City Grange, Rt. 12, Berlin. Recreational Practice. Central Vermonts
required: 244-7036. Church of the Good Shepherd, 39 Washington BarretonesVT.com. 552-3489. Wrecking Doll Society invites quad skaters age
St., Barre. 249-3970. Every Mon., 5:306:30 Dance or Play with the Swinging Over 60 18 and up. No experience necessary. Equipment
FOOD & DRINK p.m. at Bethany Church, 115 Main St.,
Montpelier. 223-3079.
Band. Danceable tunes from the 1930s to the
1960s. Recruiting musicians. Tues., 10:30 a.m.
provided: first come, first served. Sat., 56:30
p.m. Montpelier Recreation Center, Barre St.
Community Meals in Montpelier. All welcome. noon. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 First skate free. centralvermontrollerderby.com.
Free. Tai Chi Classes for All Ages. Every Tues. and
Thurs., 1011 a.m. Twin Valley Senior Center, Barre St., Montpelier. 223-2518.
Mon.: Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., 11
a.m.12:30 p.m.
Tues.: Bethany Church, 115 Main St., 11:30
Rte. 2, Blueberry Commons, E. Montpelier.
Free. 223-3322. twinvalleyseniors@myfairpoint.
Monteverdi Young Singers Chorus Rehearsal.
New chorus members welcome. Wed., 45 p.m.
YOGA & MEDITATION
net Christian Meditation Group. People of all
a.m.1 p.m. Montpelier. Call 229-9000 for location and
faiths welcome. Mon., noon1 p.m. Christ
Wed.: Christ Church, 64 State St., 11 Mooditude Support Group. A professional and more information.
Church, Montpelier. 223-6043.
a.m.12:30 p.m. peer-led support group, not a therapy group. Ukelele Group. All levels welcome. Thurs., 68
Thurs.: Trinity Church, 137 Main St., 11:30 For people with depression, bipolar disorder, Zen Meditation. With Zen Affiliate of Vermont.
p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58
a.m.1 p.m. seasonal affective disorder, dysthymia etc.). Wed., 6:307:30 p.m. 174 River St., Montpelier.
Barre St. 223-2518.
Fri.: St. Augustine Church, 18 Barre St., 11 Every Wed., 45 p.m. Bethany Church,115 Free. Call for orientation: 229-0164.
a.m.12:30 p.m. Barre Rock City Chorus. We sing songs from
Main St., Montpelier. (downstairs at end of Montpelier Shambhala Meditation. Group
Sun.: Last Sunday only, Bethany Church, 115 hallway). Free. 223-4111 or 522-0775. the 60s80s and beyond. All songs are taught by
meditation practice. Sun., 10 a.m.noon; Wed.,
Main St. (hosted by Beth Jacob Synagogue), rote using word sheets, so ability to read music is
Weight Loss Support Group. Get help and 67 p.m; learn to meditate free instruction
4:305:30 p.m. not required. All ages welcome; children under
support on your weight loss journey every the 1st Wed. of the month. New location:
13 should come with a parent. Every Thurs.,
Lunches for Seniors. Mon., Wed., Fri., Noon. Wed., 67 p.m. Giffords Conference Center, 5 State Street, 2nd floor, Montpelier. info@
6:308:30 p.m. Church of the Good Shepherd,
Twin Valley Senior Center, 4583 U.S. Rt. 2, E. 44 S. Main St., Randolph. Free. No registration montpeliershambhala.org, www.montpelier.
39 Washington St., Barre.
Montpelier. $4 suggested donation. 223-3322. required. Open to all regardless of where you are shambhala.org
twinvalleyseniors.org. in your weight loss. Gamelan Rehearsals. Sun., 79 p.m. Pratt Sunday Sangha: Community Ashtanga Yoga.
Center, Goddard College. Free. 426-3498. Every Sun., 5:407 p.m. Grateful Yoga, 15 State
Feast Together or Feast To Go. All proceeds Wits End. Support group for parents, siblings, [email protected]. [email protected].
benefit the Feast Senior Meal program. Tues. St., 3F, Montpelier. By donation.
children, spouses and/or relationship partners of
and Fri., noon1 p.m. Live music every Tues., someone suffering with addiction whether it
10:3011:30 a.m. Montpelier Senior Activity
Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. Seniors 60+
is to alcohol, opiates, cocaine, heroin, marijuana RECYCLING
or something else. Every Wed., 68 p.m. Additional Recycling. The Additional
free with $7 suggested donation; under 60 $7. Turning Point Center, 489 N. Main St., Barre. Recyclables Collection Center accepts scores of
Reservations: 262-6288 or justbasicsinc@gmail. Louise: 279-6378. hard-to-recycle items. Mon., Wed., Fri., noon6
com.
HIV Testing. Vermont CARES offers fast p.m.; Third Sat., 9 a.m.1 p.m. ARCC, 540 Do What You Do Best.
Capital City Farmers Market. Every Sat., May oral testing. Wed., 25 p.m. 29 State St., Ste. North Main St., Barre. $3 per carload. 229-9383
6Oct. 28. Shop from 50 local farmers and 14 (above Rite Aid), Montpelier. Free and x106. For list of accepted items, go to cvswmd.
producers each week in downtown Montpelier. anonymous. 371-6224. vtcares.org. org/arcc.
CCFM is a producer-only market meaning
NAMI Vermont Connection Recovery Support
everything being sold is grown or made by each
vendor. Featuring regular live music, vendor Group. For individuals living with mental RESOURCES
demonstrations, and local chef run cooking illness. Every Fri., 34 p.m. Another Way, 125 Onion River Exchange Tool Library. More Bookkeeping Payroll Consulting
demos. 9 a.m.1 p.m. 60 State St., Montpelier. Barre St., Montpelier. 876-7949. info@namivt. than 100 tools both power and manual. Onion
www.montpelierfarmersmarket.com org River Exchange is located at 46 Barre Street
in Montpelier. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday
and Thursday from 9-4. For more information 802.262.6013 evenkeelvt.com
PAG E 2 2 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Opinion Student Voices

Montpelier High School Social Studies Teacher Heather McLane assigned her students to write paragraphs
sharing their opinion about an issue that they have studied, support their opinion with a bit of evidence
and include a call to action. Below are some of the results.
Olivia Hennessey Bella Parento

G ender equality is a huge issue in our society, and people

need to spread the word and take action. Even though
a woman could have the same job and do the same work
GENDER INEQUALITY A typical issue in the United States is the well known
differential of payment between men and woman.
The difference is that women are being paid just .78 to
as her male co-worker, she still gets paid less because of impact on which policies are passed. Our democracy should the dollar of what men are paid, resulting in a gap of 22
how society treated women in the past, and still does. An convey the say of the people, not the say of the men. For percent. This issue is not only established in the work place,
average full-time employed woman makes only 78 cents to the progression of gender equality, it is important that both but also occurs in sports, which could also be considered
a mans dollar. Thats a yearly difference of $7,589.00. Also genders are equally represented in powerful positions in an occupation for females if they were getting similar
it is predicted that women will make up 47.1 percent of the government. So to all females out there, show your strength, amounts of money as men are receiving. One current issue
workforce in 2025 and then taper off to 46.3 percent by your courage and your power. Rewrite the stereotypes and go is the pay differential between the US Womens and Mens
2060, meaning that women will never make up half of the be the bold, compelling women you are! National Hockey team. The National Womens Hockey
working population. Its important to make sure that we have League stood strongly behind their quest of equality, by
more women working so that people can see that there is no Jenna Krussman committing to its vow to boycott the world championships
reason to be paid less or treated differently because of their ... if the gender gaps in the national hockey infrastructure
sex. Unfortunately gender discrimination doesnt only occur
in the workplace. Women are continuously treated unfairly,
T oday, men and women arent receiving equal pay. It has
been proven that a woman only earns an average of $0.78
to a mens $1. This number decreases for women who are
are not improved. This particular event has been ongoing
for the past 15 months, but when the team announced
and even though we have taken a large step forward, we that they would boycott this year's World Championships,
African-American or Latinas. This is a major problem that is
havent come close to the finish line yet. Gender equality is individuals began to realize the effect it has on the team.
greatly affecting our economy. If women with full-time jobs
affecting women all over the world and the best way to help "This was something we needed to sacrifice. Obviously,
received as much as men, they could receive a total of about
is to get involved with a local committee or group working to we wanted the outcome that we did receive, but we were
$702 million dollars a year, which would greatly strengthen
dissolve gender discrimination, such as Vermont Works for also willing to do, pretty much anything at this point,
our state's economy. This issue has greatly improved, but the
Women or the Vermont Commission on Women. to really make a change, said Amanda Pelkey, a current
22 gap has a potential to become no difference at all. It is
player on the U.S Women's National Hockey Team who
Kailea Silvers crucial that women feel that they are equal to men, because
was originally from Montpelier, VT. Because of the boycott
they are. Nobody gets to choose what gender they are born
G ender equality is something women have been striving
for pretty much since the beginning of time. In the past
several centuries, weve come so far, and overcome so much,
as, and we all should be given the same opportunities and
the same pay as a man. Its essential that we fix this and
and the strong and determined actions from the team over
the past couple of weeks, the U.S. Womens National Team
is now provided with travel and insurance provisions that
one way is to contact our Representatives in the Committee
but imperfections remain. We must continue to improve in equal what the mens national team receives, as well as
on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs.
order to see the day when women and men are held to the receiving larger performance bonuses for winning medals.
Right now there is a bill, S.110, An Act Relating to Equal
same standards and treated as equals. A positive step in this From my point of view as a hockey player who dreams of
Pay, that could really use some help getting the attention of
direction is closing the gender gap between men and women wearing the U.S.A. jersey, gender inequality should have
the committee. One way to do this is to contact the chair of
who work in politics. In the US government today, only 19 been addressed by the U.S.A. hockey organization before
the committee, Senator Kevin Mullin, by emailing him at
percent of congressional seats are held by women, and less the World Championships were put at risk. If you recognize
([email protected]). This is something that needs to be fixed
than 25 percent of legislators are women, even though 51 a problem that is affecting you and other women, like the
in our society, and your phone call or email could make the
percent of the population is female. Not only does having a U.S. National Team, talk about how you and others are
difference.
male-dominated legislature contradict values of fairness and feeling and introduce alternative ways to solve the problem
representative government, but various studies have shown The Bridge will feature more Student Voices to leaders of the organization. Voicing your opinion will do
that having more women in legislature has a significant in upcoming issues. you justice in the future.

Opinion Learn To Live With Wind Power

by Donald de Voil, Montpelier, part-time instructor for the Vermont State Colleges

V
ermont is a net importer of electricity. been very successful at allowing us to do reminds me a lot of my home country of needs from renewable sources by 2050
Every day, the state consumes more with less in energy terms, but they don't Scotland two decades ago. At that time, wind (Vermont Comprehensive Energy Plan).
significantly more electricity than fundamentally change the fact that energy power was still a new and emerging industry This target is ambitious, but in a world
is generated here (U.S. Energy Information consumption is now an integral part of our in Scotland and concerns about the impacts of impending energy resource scarcity and
Administration). This allows Vermonters daily lives. Unless we are willing to turn it would bring were widespread. Today, climate change, it is also rational and entirely
to enjoy the benefits of electricity, without off all the electrical devices that we depend Scotland (a country of 5 million people) has necessary. Whether we like it or not, massive
having to deal with many of the realities of on daily, the power they require must come days where its wind turbines alone produce changes to our energy sector are upon us.
electricity production. Recent developments from somewhere. It is simply unfair to expect more electricity than is used by the entire Wind turbines do have impacts, however
in renewable energy are changing the people in other places to accept the costs of country (WWF Scotland) and turbines are they are far less detrimental than those of
geography of energy production though, our energy consumption. ubiquitous across much of the landscape. most other energy options on the table right
bringing wind turbines to the state. The A decision about the future of wind power There are wind farms on hillsides, there are now and effectively banning any future wind
backlash against such development has been needs to compare the impacts of wind with turbines on farms and even within some development in Vermont will have impacts
very vocal and Vermont's Public Service those of other forms of energy production. urban areas, such as the city of Dundee near too. As a kid growing up in Scotland, I
Board is now considering the introduction By comparison with most other major where I grew up. never saw a wind turbine. Now they are
of rules that significantly reduce the noise energy sources, wind is benign. Turbines Wind power in Scotland is subject to noise an everyday part of the Scottish landscape.
level that wind turbines can make, which have some ecological impacts, but they are level regulations, but they are not as restrictive The transition to wind power in Scotland
(depending on exactly how they are worded small in comparison with coal, natural gas as the ones being proposed here in Vermont has been rapid, but so too has the ability of
and implemented) could easily make any or hydroelectric. Turbines also have human right now. Does everyone in Scotland like Scottish people to accept wind power and
future wind power in Vermont, impossible. impacts, but again, these have to be assessed wind development? No, but when I speak learn to live beside it. Vermonters can learn
Every form of electricity production has in comparison with the alternatives. Wind with family and friends on return visits to my to live beside wind power too.
associated impacts and this includes wind turbines do not give children asthma or home country, I find that familiarity with
power. New energy developments always leukemia, which is the reality for those who wind power has led to its acceptance. In a

Poetry
create winners and losers. Acknowledging live near coal fired power stations. They do country where the reality of human induced
this and supporting those disadvantaged not poison underground water supplies and climate change is widely understood, most
by energy development is an important vent carcinogens, like hydraulic fracturing see wind power as a positive and necessary
societal obligation, especially because groups wells used to drill for natural gas. Turbines do step. There has been no environmental health
marginalized by wealth and color typically change vistas, but they do not remove those crisis in Scotland associated with noise from
draw the shortest straw. vistas altogether, as occurs with mountaintop wind power development. Despite concerns
But this does not mean there should be removal coal mining, or the flooding of about the impact of wind power on its Things I have become no. 41
no place for wind turbines in Vermont. In valleys for hydroelectric dams. Alongside important tourist industry, Scottish tourism
the voices of Vermonters who are concerned today is as strong as ever. The Scots I know Someone who thinks
a society where energy consumption has
doubled roughly every 25 years for over a about what wind power means for them, we have grown accustomed to the presence of late night quiet
century and fossil fuels make up nearly 80 need to also hear the voices of those whose wind power and do not notice the turbines
is just fine
percent of the current U.S. energy supply lives have been destroyed by other forms of in their landscape any more than they might
(U.S. Energy Information Administration), energy production in other places. notice pylons or roads.
we desperately need to pursue every single non- As someone originally from another place Vermont faces a critical decision about its by Reuben Jackson, host of Friday Night
fossil fuel energy option we have. Vermont's who moved here 12 years ago, the current energy future right now. The state has set Jazz on Vermont Public Radio
excellent energy efficiency initiatives have public debate about wind power in Vermont a target of meeting 90 percent of its energy
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 2 3

Editorial
Dear Friend of The Bridge:
An Appeal to our Readers and Friends

Before you venture forth into the green and glorious Vermont countryside, please read this short note and please participate
in our Spring Fundraising Campaign.
When you make a gift to The Bridge you will make a difference.
You will enable us to write local stories on issues of local importance.
In this paper we are running a comprehensive story about the proposed school merger between Montpelier
(population 7,671) and Roxbury (population 691). Find out why this proposal is coming before voters in Montpelier
and Roxbury and understand why some people favor the merger and others do not.
You will support our continued work with young people and student interns.
The news industry is changing no doubt about that. But we believe that reading, writing, thinking, discussion
and a free press will continue to be critical to the survival of our democracy. Our work with students and interns
support these values.
You will support community life including the vigor of our business community both downtown and across
Central Vermont
The Bridge is a way for people in business and people with services and artists with events to let people know they
are there and what is happening. Your gift to The Bridge makes us strong and keeps us going.
The Bridge is a local non-profit community newspaper owned and governed by a local board of directors.
Phone us. Stop by our office. Tell us whats happening, share your point of view. Write a letter or an opinion piece. Suggest
stories we should covers. Agree or disagree.
Thanks sincerely,
Nat Frothingham
P.S. Please find a return envelope as part of this newspaper. If the envelope is missing, please send us a contribution
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read more about us.

Makeover Montpelier Contest Kick Off

One Lucky Shopper Will Win A Year of FREE
Parking in Downtown Montpelier
MONTPELIER The Montpelier Business Association and Montpelier Alive, the promotion is designed to get consumers interacting downtown and keep people informed
downtown community organization, launched the Makeover Montpelier promotional of project updates. Look for more of these contests in the coming weeks.
campaign May 15 aimed at informing the community that downtown is open for business The name Makeover Montpelier was designed to let consumers know that this is not a
during the paving and sidewalk projects currently happening in the Capital City. big dig project. The hope is that the community will tap into one of the various ways
Today is the first Makeover Montpelier Monday and the announcement of the first to receive updates as the Makeover Montpelier project moves forward. Customers and
contest: Guess the Completion Date of Downtown Paving. Downtown shoppers can patrons will always be able to access their favorite stores, restaurants and businesses
register their guess of the date that downtown paving will be complete. Entry forms can be occasionally with a little more effort. While we will all soon enjoy the benefits of having
found at most local shops in downtown Montpelier. At the end of the project, a winner will improved roads and sidewalks, it is important to shop locally now and often to show your
be chosen (at random if there is more than one correct guess) and the winner will receive support for our local business owners, said Ashley Witzenberger, executive director of
one year of free parking in downtown Montpelier. Each Makeover Montpelier Monday Montpelier Alive.

Advertise in the NEXT ISSUE:

School's Out!
Dads & Grads
In Circulation June 1 to June 14
ALL AD MATERIALS AND AD SPACE
RESERVATIONS DUE FRIDAY, MAY 26.
For more information about advertising deadlines, rates
and the design of your ad, contact one of our representatives:
Rick McMahan: 249-8666 [email protected]
Michael Jermyn: 223-5112 ext.11 [email protected]
PAG E 24 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

Letters
not originally from Vermont. My wife and our states health care system. and advised of any community festivities
I just actually moved up to Cabot not long Under the AHCA, anyone with a pre- such as breakfast, refreshments, lunch and
ago. Arriving here, I was hard pressed to existing condition (which is the majority in some cases return for gathering at a
find a job in my field that uses my kind of of us) would be vulnerable to losing their community dinner; music; raffles.
technical skills. Northern Power Systems, coverage. The AHCA does not make health To the many schools whose students
a manufacturer of wind turbines located care cheaper; it merely moves the costs participated: Several thousand students
in Barre is one of the few places that was
Nuclear Power Better Than Wind around and places more burden on working around the state helped clean up with fellow
able to take me on and use my skills Ive and middle class Americans. students just prior to Green Up Day and
Turbine Development developed. I couldnt be happier than to go
Over the past few years, Vermont has taken also on Green Up Day in their communities
Editor: to work for a good cause that I believe in.
innovative steps to improve our healthcare with family, friends and neighbors.
Thank you for the moving and visually I believe this technology is the right
powerful Mountain Manifesto spread. I system. Vermont has used Medicaid To the numerous businesses coming out to
direction for our country, and our world, expansion to act on our Vermont values and help clean up on Friday: Over 30 businesses
think that, ironically, the ridgeline wind as we face environmental issues such as
turbines dominating some Vermont provide more care to more of our neighbors. primarily in large towns formed teams
climate change and economic issues that Rolling back Medicaid expansion, as the of employees to help start the Green Up
landscapes were brought here by some of stem from a lack of security, sovereignty and
the same activists now protesting them. AHCA calls for, would leave many more cleaning up on Friday, drawing attention
independence around our energy sources. Vermonters without coverage. to take part in Green Up Day on Saturday.
As one who has cherished, hiked and The turbines that my 70 co-workers and
respectfully utilized Vermont woodland for We call on Gov. Scott to oppose the repeal A sampling included Vermont Chamber of
I create go on to make an immeasurable Commerce, Vermont Gas, Cabot Creamery,
many decades I was an early opponent of positive impact right here in Vermont, and of the Affordable Care Act and the proposals
wind power development. However, those of the American Health Care Act. Dealer.com
across the world.
were the days before activists succeeded in Join us in signing this petition sponsored To Governor Scott: The Governor with a
their decades-long campaign to shut down The people that I work with are Vermonters team of his cabinet members went out on
who have welcomed me with open arms, and by Rights and Democracy Vermont: http://
the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant, www.radvt.org/dearphillscott Friday to clean up a stretch of Route 2 from
touting "wind farms" as an alternative. now I am a Vermonter too, as is my wife. Montpelier to Middlesex. He is making his
The 35 decibal restriction that's proposed Solidarity Sundays VT, presence and support visible to emphasize
By effectively attacking Vermont Yankee, here would not only cripple Vermont's www.solidaritysundays.org the importance of Green Up Day.
Vermont activists helped trigger government future for wind energy, it would help take
subsidies for "clean power" alternatives. away the jobs from these people that I work Melinda Vieux, President, Green Up Vermont
Hence, wind turbines. In the early 2000s,
Thank You For Green Up Day
with every day from 6 in the morning until
for example, the new activist administrative 4 in the afternoon. These rules will only I would like to express greetings and Friends Til The End
team of the Washington Electric Co-op in take from hard working, down-to-earth gratitude to many who made Green Up Day
2017 a vibrant reality. Thank you! Editor:
Central Vermont sold its interest in Vermont people, and additionally, would serve as a
Yankee and, with the help of Congressman FRIEND = First + End. A friend means
disincentive for young people like myself To the volunteers: Over 22,000 people of all
Bernie Sanders, used a federal grant to help first til the end. First means not the first
who want to settle down in Vermont and walks of life and varied ages volunteered to
build the Sheffield wind project. meeting, but for the first time they had
find these well-paying jobs that are able to come out and clean up litter from Vermonts
mutual understanding. End means it is an
Our country needs an ever increasing support a family. roadsides, public and natural spaces and
end for their meeting. They are apart from
supply of electricity in order to remain free, waterways. They did this before, during
Landon Mariano, Cabot each other and they dont have any means
progressive and productive in a world filled and after the traditional day of Green Up
of communication but still have mutual
with hate and reactionary movements. Day May 6. They worked through varying
Oppose American Health Care Act degrees of weather, including rain in some
understanding. A friend wants to see his
Nuclear power, with its robust power friend happy every time. He is satisfied
output, minimal environmental footprint, Editor: areas that forced delay of cleaning to the
by making his friend happy. Satisfaction
and outstanding U.S. safety record, makes We applaud U.S. Rep. Peter Welchs weekend after Green Up Day.
is more than the happiness. Because
wind turbines look silly, and is a rational outspoken criticism of the American To the coordinators in each of the 251 happiness is only for some particular time,
choice for our future power needs. Health Care Act and his vote opposing it. towns, including numerous towns with a but satisfaction leaves a mark in the heart of
We believe the act would be detrimental to co-coordinator: These caring dedicated a person that is forever. According to me, a
Andy Leader, North Middlesex
many Vermonters. town coordinators, working in conjunction satisfied friend is a True Friend.
Dont Restrict Wind Turbine Governor Phil Scott has been quoted with Green Up Vermont the nonprofit
By Karuna
Noise Too Much (Seven Days, May 4, 2017) as having grave organization carrying on the tradition
concerns about the AHCA. We call on of Green Up Day, organized logistics to Be Happy
Editor: publicize for participation; informed
Governor Scott to take this further to Keep Smiling
I work at Northern Power Systems in Barre. speak out against this bill and speak up residents of areas needing cleaning; made
I'm a trained research scientist and currently the green trash bags available and advised Karuna Konduri lives in Montpelier. She
for Vermonters, and assure them that his
an engineer at Northern Power Systems. Im what to do with filled bags; arranged for wrote this article about her memories of
administration will continue to improve
friends in India.

What Do You Think?

Read something that you would like to respond to? We welcome your letters and opinion pieces. Letters must be fewer than 300 words. Opinion
pieces should not exceed 600 words. The Bridge reserves the right to edit and cut pieces. Send your piece to: [email protected].
Deadline for the next issue May 26.

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your
community
newspaper.
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 2 5
PAG E 26 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE
T H E B R I D G E M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 PAG E 27

Montpelier Real Estate Transactions July 1 to September 30, 2016

PAG E 2 8 M AY 18 M AY 31, 2 017 THE BRIDGE

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