Professional Documents
Culture Documents
IN THIS ISSUE:
Pg. 4 Tax Man Cometh
Pg. 6 UES Upgrades
Playground
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CAR-RT SORT
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Montpelier, VT
Permit NO. 123
The Bridge
P.O. Box 1143
Montpelier, VT 05601
Joseph Sawyer
Jacob Graves
Joseph Sawyer: Our responsibility this coming year is the homeless. We need more help for the homeless. Theres no place for the
homeless to go, and theyre trying to shut down the M&M beverage store to make way for some stupid bike path the homeless
will have no place to cash in beer bottles.
The Bridge: Given your feelings about the homeless and your
observations of the difficulties that they face, if you were to advise
the legislature this session is there anything you would have
them do specifically to address this concern?
YOUR BOX AD HERE!
Sawyer: I would hope that the homeless can
Advertise in this space by
get a nice place to live, since winter is comcalling The Bridge's
ing on. We need to give vouchers for people
advertising department at
to get off the street.
223-5112 ext. 11
Continued on Page 10
PAG E 2 J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016
Nature Watch
by Chip Darmstadt
THE BRIDGE
Advertise in the
NEXT ISSUE:
January 21 to
February 3
This issue is mailed to all
05602 residents
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 3
T H E B R I D G E
made progress on both of those projects, although it has been slower than I would like. My
goal is to see them both completed during the next two years.
he City is working on an economic development planning process that will focus and expand our efforts to increase economic activity, Hollar stated. He added that the City has
drawn up a downtown plan aimed at future investments and is working on completing a
parking plan and a master plan to make the city more bike and pedestrian-friendly. Next
to do is a storm water master plan.
And, in order to help pay for long-term budget challenges, Hollar worked in concert with
community members to create a local option tax.
I have endorsed the adoption of a one percent tax on rooms, meals and alcohol, with the
proceeds dedicated towards our roads and sidewalks. That tax would ensure that out-of-town
residents help pay for the infrastructure that allows Montpelier to be a thriving regional hub
of commercial activity. Experience from other Vermont towns has shown that the tax is
The hearing officer's decision was rendered after two full days of hearings and consideration unlikely to have a negative effect on our restaurants and hotels, Hollar said. He then went
of lengthy and detailed written submissions by the City and Hallsmith. The hearings relating on to express his good fortune in working with a dedicated (municipal) staff, a talented city
council and an amazing roster of volunteers.
to Hallsmiths appeal were open to the public at her request.
An attempt by The Bridge to invite a comment from Hallsmith went unanswered.
MONTPELIER Mayor John Hollar announced his plan to seek re-election in the 2016 BARRE Thunder Road has announced the formation of a new weekly Go-Kart racing
series for the 2016 season. The Junior Champ Kart youth division for competitors ages 6 to
mayoral race to take place on Town Meeting Day in March.
14 will run on Tuesday nights throughout the summer, marking the first time since 2010
I am pleased to announce my intention to run for re-election as mayor of the City of that weekly Kart racing will be held on the Barre high banks.
Montpelier. This is a great time to be a part of Montpelier. Our downtown is thriving. Our
cultural life is flourishing. And our community is filled with creative, engaged and commit- The 10-race series begins on Tuesday, June 21 and will run weekly through Tuesday, August
23, with a one-week holiday break on July 5. The gates will open at 4:30 p.m. for all Tuesday
ted residents who love our capital city.
events with racing beginning at 6 p.m.
Hollar went on to state that the City has kept property taxes below the rate of inflation while
at the same time adding $500,000 over four years ago to pay for roads and sidewalk improve- A special event on Saturday, September 10 will close the karting season. Racing for this event
ment. In addition, Hollar stated, the first full season of renewable district heat system has will begin at 1 p.m. with the gates opening at noon.
made Montpelier a national leader in renewable energy.
An informational meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 19 at 7 p.m. at Nick Sweets race
If re-elected, I will work to complete two major city projects: the Taylor Street housing and shop on 307 South Barre Road in Barre. Please email Cris Michaud at crism6@comcast.net
transit center, and the completion of the bike path through the length of Montpelier. We've with further questions.
The dimensions were determined by Machniks pre-calculus class, and the symbol was
drawn out by Matt Link and the Department of Recreation. As the school formed the peace
sign, Bromley used a drone to take a picture every half-second in flight to capture the birdseye view, and created a time-lapse video using a tripod on the roof. The drone images can
be found on the Montpelier Public Schools Facebook page.
$50*
$100
$150
Thank
You!
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THE BRIDGE
Chairing that committee was Sen. Jeannette White, DWindham while vice chair was Sen. Anthony Pollina, D/PWashington County. Also on the committee are Sen. Chris
Bray, D-Addison; Joe Benning, R-Caledonia-Orange and
Brian Collamore, R-Rutland.
The senate bill, S.95 was introduced by David Zuckerman in a
previous session. The administration commissioned the Rand
Commission to study the impact of Legalization on Vermont,
White explained November 3. The Government Operations
committee studied the issue throughout the year. We felt
it was easier to have the discussion of should it or shouldnt
it be legalized if we knew what it would look like, White
said. Those people who were against legalization, were helpful in saying, if you are going to to it, these are the param-
The next step for S.95 starts with Legislative Counsel offering a history of the regulation of cannabis in Vermont on Friday, January 8 in the Senate Committee on Judiciary. (http://
legislature.vermont.gov/committee/agenda/2016/2355.
by Nat Frothingham
still indicated after January 6, there will be a final public meeting on Wednesday evening January 20, the day before the school system presents its final budget figures to the City Council.
At press time for this issue of The Bridge (February 6) both city and school budgets are currently under review and public discussion with possible changes for each.
According to current estimates, in FY 2017 the State of Vermont will contribute a base education amount of $9,955 per equalized student. Again, this number could change.
Ricca commented on a number of figures from the school budget summary. These figures
influence the final property tax estimates that are being offered for the FY 2017 proposed
budget.
On the bad news is good news front, Montpeliers common level of appraisal is showing a
slight decline to 95.3 percent. The bad news is that residents will pay more in property taxes
because our property values are somewhat higher than other property values across the state.
The good news has to do with the comparative strength, that is, the competitiveness of the
local housing market.
The total budget change for educational spending in the proposed FY 2017 budget is up by
2.31 percent over the FY 2016 budget and education spending per pupil is up 4.17 percent.
Ricca said that Montpelier taxpayers would not be penalized tax wise because that 4.17 percent
rise in per pupil spending does not trigger the states double tax penalty.
For taxpayers wanting to save money he noted that because enrollments have experienced a
modest growth (enrollments in the district were 992 students in FY 2016 and are projected to
be 1027 students in FY 2017, taxpayers in Montpelier will see more money contributed by the
State of Vermont as part of the FY 2017 budget. Thats good news, said Ricca. Growth (in
student numbers) is good.
When all the numbers and measures are combined, taxpayers will be paying less for schools in
FY 2017 than they paid in FY 2016. Thus, if you owned a house valued at $100,000, in FY
2016 you are paying $1,603 for the school portion of your property taxes. But in FY 2017, you
are projected to be paying $1577. The logic continues for a house valued at $200,000: $3,205
last year and $3,153 for the year ahead; or for a house valued at $300,000 $4808 in FY 16 and
$4,730 in FY 2017.
Whats not to like about a cut on the school side of your property tax bill?
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T H E B R I D G E
by Carla Occaso
MONTPELIER More attendance than usual is expected this year at the ballot box, liers schools and give every child the best chance for a first-rate education. Montpelier
according to City Clerk John Odum in a recent phone conversation with The Bridge.
has some of the top schools in Vermont. I am committed to keeping them that way and
It is going to be record-breaking because of the presidential ballot and Bernie Sanders. making them even better. This means we need to invest in the people and programming
Turnout is going to be more like a general election. It is going to be a doozie, Odum said. that will meet the needs of all of Montpeliers students in all grades. The election for the
Montpelier Board of School Commissioners is on Town Meeting Day.
It is just weeks away from the filing deadline of February 1, and candidate news has
But these two candidates are still unofficial, in that they have not yet filed their petition
started filtering in to The Bridge.
with City Clerk John Odum. At this point there are (officially) no candidates for anyThe Montpelier Board of School Commissioners will see three terms open up with one thing, Odum said, explaining the filing deadline is still weeks away.
member announcing re-election plans, one stepping down and one staying mum. I am
stepping down, said Clerk/Treasurer Lowell Vanderlip by email. Chair Sue Aldrich did As for City Council, three terms are also up those now held by Justin Turcotte, Dona
Bate and Jean Olson. Jean Olson, appointed to fill the seat vacated by Thierry Guerlain
not get back to The Bridge about whether she plans on seeking re-election.
last year, indicated she is running again in public session during the council, Odum said.
Michele Braun, vice chair, whose seat is also up for re-election, told The Bridge she does But the others have not formally announced. The mayors two-year term is also up. Curindeed plan to seek another term. The stewardship of Montpelier Public Schools, on be- rent Mayor John Hollar has announced his desire to continue in that role.
half of our community, is a serious responsibility. I have learned a lot in my first term, and
would like to help the community navigate the exciting and challenging developments Other seats up for election include one cemetery commissioner term and two park comahead of us. Montpelier Public Schools is an excellent school district, and the new initia- missioners.
tives coming from throughout the community toward personalized learning, proficiencybased standards, wellness, playground enhancement and attracting tuition students are
all going to help us maintain our position as a leading district in educational innovation.
At the same time, our tax rate is among the lowest in Washington County, about average
across the state, and we intend to stay on a path of balancing expenses and revenues. I
appreciate the opportunity to serve Montpelier and hope the voters will support me for
another term, Braun wrote in an email.
Two other townspeople are waiting in the wings to vie for the open seats.
Our schools are a big reason why so many people want to live in Montpelier. Every child
deserves a great education and Montpelier schools should continue to strive for excellence.
That is the focus I will bring to the School Board, wrote Peter Sterling of Montpelier to
The Bridge in announcing his bid for a seat on the board. Sterling further wrote that he
was appointed to the program finance committee to prepare a report to the school board
on finding efficiencies in the school budget. Sterling is former vice chair of the Doty
Elementary school board in Worcester.
Also planning to run is Jim Murphy. Murphy wrote, I have decided to run for a seat on
the board of school commissioners as a parent of two Union Elementary School students
and a Montpelier resident who wants to ensure that we continue to improve Montpe-
Correction
Cecile Gendron was featured in a Celebrating Unsung Heroes story on page 9 of our December 17, 2015 issue. Gendron is a nurse who volunteers at the Peoples Health & Wellness
Clinic in Barre. After the story was published in December 17 issue of The Bridge, Gendron
was in touch to make it clear that yes, she did graduate from St. Vincents School of Nursing in 1970. But no, she did not attend Yale University and did not therefore graduate
from Yale New Haven Hospital. Instead she was employed by Yale-New Haven Hospital
as her first job. The Bridge regrets this error.
PAG E 6 J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016
THE BRIDGE
by Jose Aguayo
Similarly, Chris Green, a UES parent with the nonprofit ORCA Media in Montpelier, has been
working on a video about the playground project that will be shown during the Give it UPP
Auction Gala taking place at 6:30 p.m. on Februrary 14 at Vermont Colleges Alumni Hall. The
event will include silent and live auctions, as well as a concert by The Dave Keller Band. Another
UES parent, Jeffrey Farrell will be preparing and organizing food for the event, while the Three
Penny Taproom will operate a cash bar.
Among other things, the new project might include a shaded area or structure to protect children
from the suns harmful UV rays.
by Jose Aguayo
intention to pursue an accelerated merger, which involves a vote by the end of June 2016.
Brackin added that Several of the SUs are pursuing other forms of merger (REDs; sideby-sides) with the intention of being operational on July 1, 2016 or July 1, 2017 so they
are within the accelerated merger timeframe but are not technically accelerated mergers.
Districts are being offered various incentives to ease the financial burden of restructuring,
including grants to carry out merger feasibility studies, as well as 10 cents off property taxes
for districts that choose to move forward with accelerated mergers and have voter approval
by June 30, 2016. This property tax reduction will come down by 2 cents each subsequent
year, for a total five-year tax incentive of 30 cents. Districts choosing to merge into a new
administrative entity will not be assessed a Cost Containment Per Pupil Threshold in the
first year of operation.
Secretary Holcombe and Hazen Union School Board Chair David F. Kelley will discuss Act 46
and other critical education issues on Thursday evening, January 14 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in
an event at the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. The panel discussion will be moderated by Donny
Osman who was a member of the Vermont House and served on the House Education Committee. Come join them in the Hayes Room of the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in Montpelier.
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 7
T H E B R I D G E
BARRE Several days ago, I sat down with Carl Hammond at Darwin's Sew and Vac,
a one-man shop that sells and repairs sewing machines and vacuum cleaners. Hammond
spoke about how people today buy, use and very often discard a vacuum cleaner that has
stopped working only to repeat the cycle in a few years.
As our conversation continued, Hammond recounted the unusual story of how, just a
little over three years ago, a conversation he and Darwin Ransom had, turned into, how
would you like to buy a business? With a look at five years of financials, Hammond
knew that Darwin was not making a lot of money, but his cash flow was positive. So,
Hammond bought the business. Just six weeks after the sale, Darwin died at the age of 82.
the public Wednesday through Saturday. Like Darwin before him, he sells "a boatload of
vacuum bags for machine we don't even sell" but adds small vac and sew shops have historically been a resource for their communities and he is glad to be continuing the service.
As the new owner, Hammond might have changed the business name. But Hammond
retained the name that has served the Barre and central Vermont area for over 50 years.
So Hammond still calls the shop Darwin's but in the last six months has had to move it.
The old shop had just 500 square feet and no parking to speak of. Hammond's new
space at 379 South Barre Road in South Barre has ample parking with street level access.
Fabulous, Hammond says in a word describing the new space. When he moved in,
people stopped in just to say welcome to the neighborhood.
As Hammond talked, I didn't even have to ask him if the business was making money or
struggling when the phone rang and it went to the answering machine. As we continued
the phone rang again and again to the machine and then the door opened with a drop off
vacuum to be fixed. A moment later, through the door came a woman and daughter with
a family heirloom sewing machine that wasn't working right. The machine was purchased
in 1979 and said her daughter, This was her first major investment.
Before Darwins, Hammond was a service manager working on commercial and industrial
machines. His territory was all of Vermont and covered most of New Hampshire. He says
that although he liked the work, he was driving between 700 to 800 miles a week. Driving on the highways isn't what it used to be. Too many distracted drivers today.
Buying Darwins and leaving a very good paying job was certainly risky he said. After
three years, however, he said the move was the right one.
Talking a few days ago, as he took stock of things at Darwin's, Hammond described the
business as solid. He reckons that the shop services an area bounded on the north by
Stowe to the south by Bethel to the west by the Mad River Valley and the east by Bradford
and neighboring Connecticut River communities.
On most Mondays and Tuesdays, Hammond is repairing machines. The doors are open to
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THE BRIDGE
Talking Turkey
by Larry Floersch
uring the holiday season I think about turkeys. Now I know what youre thinking, But
Lare, theres a presidential campaign in full
swing. Its hard not to think about turkeys. I
dont mean that kind of turkey! Those turkeys
dont have wattles. Well, actually some of the
older ones almost have wattles, but to my
knowledge, none of them have snoods. No, I
mean the kind of turkeys that puff themselves
up and strut about. Wait a minute, thats still
confusing. I mean the kind of turkeys Ben Franklin admired, the kind that have wings
and feathers and come from eggs, not focus groups. Those are my kind of turkeys. I have
lived amongst them.
I must confess I did not start out to be a turkey boy. My dream had always been to be a
cowboy. I wanted to learn to ride a horse, handle a sixgun, never lose my hat in a fight.
And maybe sing Back in the Saddle Again and own a major league baseball team. But
career paths often dont go as planned, and somewhere along the way I had a son. And
one fine spring day when he was young, my son acquired, by being in the right place at
the right time at the local farm-and-garden store, a crippled turkey chick.
As is so often the case with crippled birds, little Champion soon was committed back to
the earth beneath a popsicle-stick marker bearing his name. But a door had been opened
that could not be closed, and a chicken-wire pen sprang up behind the garden to house
a small flock of healthy birds.
It was a successful experiment, and in November of that year, after a visit to a certain
business establishment near Hardwick, the six members of the flock were distributed in
plastic bags to various friends, who gave each bird a place of honor at the Thanksgiving
table.
Now Im sure you have heard all those stories about how dumb turkeys can be and are
wondering why I would want to associate with such creatures. I will admit turkeys have
many bad habits. They are greedy and self-centered, they can be very mean and bully
each other, and (you might want to make sure no small children are in the room when
you read this), they have terrible table manners, walk in their food, and smack their beaks
when they eat. But turkeys are not exactly dumb. And they can fly, at least when they are
young and have not yet grown tremendous breasts.
Emboldened by our success, the next spring we increased the size of the pen and ordered
two dozen chicks. It was then, that for me, many of the myths about turkeys began to
crumble.
You may have heard, as I did, that turkeys are so dumb they will drown in a rainstorm
because they look up at the rain in amazement with beaks agape and the rain runs down
their throats. The first night my 24 fledglings were in their pen, we had a downpour.
Fearing the worst, I grabbed my flashlight and headed to the pen. The roost shelter was
empty this being their first night outside they were dumb enough to still fear it. But
instead of 24 sodden dead bodies, all the fledglings were lying on the ground with their
heads tucked under a wing. The rain streamed off them as if they were ducklings. They
had known exactly what to do. I returned to the house soaked but enlightened. I was
not smart enough to have put on my raincoat. Fortunately I did not look up at the rain.
Over the ensuing years I learned more about turkeys. The revelation that young turkeys
enjoy a sport akin to soccer came one year when the weather turned very cold just after
the chicks arrived. Chicks must be kept warm until they grow their feathers. The brooder
box was in an unheated shed. Fearing the chicks might perish if the heat lamp on the
brooder box failed, I moved the brooder box into the living room of the house.
A few days later I noticed the chicks were beginning to pick at each other. I went to
the farm-and-garden store and asked for advice. Theyre bored, the manager told me,
They need something to do. He suggested I place a piece of sod in the brooder box.
When I put the sod square into the brooder box, you would have thought Godzilla was
stomping his way through downtown Tokyo. The chicks fled to the farthest corner and
boiled around in a fuzzy mass. This went on for about 30 minutes. Then one brave chick
began eyeing the sod. There was a clover leaf on its stalk at the nearest edge. The chick
moved closer and kept eyeing the clover. Then, summoning all the courage in its little
turkey heart, it dashed across the remaining distance and plucked the leaf. Immediately
the rest of the chicks gave pursuit. When the first chick dropped the leaf, another picked
it up, and all the others then chased that chick. It was a youth-league soccer game, where
there is no strategy other than all players converging on the ball.
The game went on for what seemed the allotted 90 minutes, with extra time for stoppages. Then, as so often happens in World Cup, Germany won. Well, actually, the last
chick to have the leaf simply ate it, and the others lost interest and began scratching and
picking at the sod.
It has been quite a few years now since I gave up turkey wrangling. My sons interests
shifted to Legos, then computers, and then he was off to college. But with a New Year
approaching and the endless stream of political ads on television, I miss being surrounded
by real turkeys not the ones on TV the ones Ben Franklin admired.
T H E B R I D G E
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 9
ince I deliberately conducted no research for this review, I find it difficult to formulate
generalizations about its contents.
This movie is so good that you don't need research to appreciate the power and tenderness
contained in this story of a young, beautiful Irish woman who migrates to America and
falls in love with an Italian. He likes baseball, especially when it is played by the Dodgers. Most of the action takes place in a rooming house for young women. The acting is
terrific, especially that performed by the female lead (Saoise Ronan).
Also, the transitions are carefully woven, which makes for extra smooth scene changes.
The ending is telegraphed early in the movie, but waiting for the ending is worth it.
Overall: powerful portrait of life in a boarding house.
High ratings: Four stars.
The Director is John Crowley. Writers are Nick Hornby (Screenplay) and Colm Toibin
(Novel)
Brooklyn will be playing at The Savoy Theater in Montpelier through January 17.
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THE BRIDGE
Elanor Lynn
Karen Williams
James
Wayne Fawbush
James (No last name given), 34, lives in Montpelier and works at Down Home Kitchen as a cook
and at Cumberland Farms as a cashier.
The Bridge: As we ring in the New year, and we look
forward to 2016, can you tell me what, in your opinion, is
the greatest challenge facing us as a state? What is our most
important responsibility?
Wayne Fawbush, 71, is a retiree and photographer in Montpelier. Previously he ran a nonprofit focused on helping rural businesses.
The Bridge: As we ring in the New Year, what in your
opinion is the biggest challenge or the greatest responsibility facing the state?
Wayne Fawbush: One of the biggest issues we face is a
very subtle one and that is the crumbling of both social and
physical infrastructure and our inability to raise adequate
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 11
T H E B R I D G E
Chandelier in the
State House
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THE BRIDGE
ell never run out of show ideas, Bill Morancy would often exult as wed
finish taping a television show called Talking About Movies for Onion
River Public Access. It was a characteristic expression for Bill of joy
at the prospect of sharing his enthusiasms with the world at large. We didnt run out of
ideas, but Bill sadly ran out of time. He died on Monday, December 28, just two months
after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
Bill was one of this areas distinctive personalities, and one of its greatest appreciators.
He often said that these last 10 years of his life were his happiest. Besides co-hosting the
show, he had been a clerk at Bear Pond Books, a projectionist at The Savoy, a contestant
at storytelling events, a concessionaire with Circus Smirkus and was the curator of a
popular Sunday morning film series. He had close friends, meaningful work and the
sense that he was contributing to a vibrant community.
Bill was a native of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, of French-Canadian and Irish heritage.
After an unsatisfying stint in the white-collar world (law and insurance), he moved to
Marthas Vineyard, where he worked at a variety of jobs: video store and bookstore clerk,
baker, surveyor, movie projectionist and housepainter. He spearheaded a successful effort to establish a community radio station (WVVY) that is still thriving.
He first became acquainted with Central Vermont in the mid 1990s when he rented a
house on Nelson Pond in order to escape the intense summertime invasion of Marthas
Vineyard. Later, when it came time to leave the Cape, he thought of Montpelier and its
welcoming atmosphere. We are all the richer for that decision.
Bill Morancy
As one of his close friends commented this week, those of us who were near enough,
geographically, to support Bill in his final months, were struck by the variety and range
of all who enjoyed and were affected by his personality and passions for film, adventure,
good conversation, culture and play.
A springtime memorial service is planned. If you would like to give a gift in Bills name,
he asked that donations go to a fund for the furthering of film culture in central Vermont. Make checks out to the Bill Morancy Film Fund" and send to: Rick Winston,
Box 32, Adamant, VT 05640.
(Many of the 150+ Talking About Movies shows are available to watch online, at
https://vimeo.com/talkingaboutmovies/videos )
Poetry
What happened to Tamir,
Trayvon, Sandra; Eric
(What day is it? Have there
been more?)
Would not happen to you,
he says,
as if a resume
and a properly executed
subject /verb agreement
Aftermath Two
would trigger an officer's
recollections:
"Oh. Right!"
"The chronically curious
black guy!"
"Please forgive my hostile tone
and anxious pistol."
"Have a wonderful
day.
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 13
T H E B R I D G E
FRIDAY, JANUARY 8
SATURDAY, JANUARY 9
file nails and lotion feet. 14 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. $15
for 15-minute appointment. Schedule: 223-2518
Bereavement/Grief Support Group. Open to
anyone who has experienced the death of a loved
one. 6-7:30 p.m. Conference Center. 600 Granger
Road, Berlin. Free. 223-1878.
Birthing From Within: Physiology of Labor.
Utilize specific practices to strengthen self awareness, and build communication between partners
to support a strong coping mindset. Prepare
and review for the integration of self development that arises in the process of birth and in the
care of a new baby. 68 p.m. Good Beginnings,
14 River St., Montpelier. Free. Register: 5957953, gbcvinfo@gmail.com or facebook.com/
events/1646077855649685/
Jan. 19: Mummenschanz. Swiss-based theater troupe Mummenschanz uses props, masks, shadow,
light and humor to convey timeless stories with broad human appeal all without using any music
or dialogue. 7 p.m. St. Johnsbury Academy, Fuller Hall, 1000 Main St., St. Johnsbury. $1564. 7482600. KCPpresents.org
TUESDAY, JANUARY 12
Grandparents Raising Their Childrens Children. Second Tues., 68 p.m. Child care provided.
Young Adult Book Discussion. Open to anyone,
Wesley Methodist Church, Main St., Waterbury.
any age, with an interest and passion for young
476-1480.
adult literature. The goal is to inspire a rich, lively
VSAC Financial Aid Forms Workshop. Offers
discussion from people who bring varied perspecguidance on filling out the FAFSA (Free Aptives to the books because of diversity in age,
plication for Federal Student Aid.) Ask questions
life experience and reading tastes. Second Wed.,
and learn about the college financial aid process,
6:308 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, East
including how to apply for scholarships. To fill out Montpelier Room, 135 Main St., Montpelier.
forms, participants should bring social security
number, most recent federal tax return and most
recent W-2 or year-end pay stub. 6 p.m. Williamstown High School, 120 Hebert Rd., Williamstown. Free. www.vsac.org/schedule.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13
SUNDAY, JANUARY 10
Jan. 15: Stroke Yer Joke. Sign up in advance to try five minutes of your best open-mic stand-up comedy before a live audience. 8 p.m. Espresso Bueno, 248 N. Main St., Barre. Free. 479 0896. events@
espressobueno.com. espressobueno.com.
MONDAY, JANUARY 11
Performing Arts
Chronic Conditions Support Group. Free discussion and educational group for anyone with a
chronic illness meets on the second Wednesday of
each month, 34 p.m. Gifford Conference Center,
44 S. Main St., Randolph. 728-2390.
Celiac and Food Allergy Support Group. With
Lisa Mas of Harmonized Cookery. Second Wed.,
4:306 p.m. Conference room 3, Central Vermont
Medical Center. lisamase@gmail.com.
Quilting Group. Working meeting of the Dog
THURSDAY, JANUARY 14
PAG E 14 J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016
Live Music
VENUES
Bagitos. 28 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 2299212. Open mic every Wed. Other shows T.B.A.
bagitos.com.
Jan. 7: Colin McCaffrey & Lewis Franco, 68
p.m.
Jan. 8: Jazz Duo Art Herttua & Ray Carroll,
68 p.m.
Jan. 9: Irish Session with Sarah Blair, Hilari
Farrington, Benedict Koehler, Katrina VanTyne,
Bob Ryan and others, 25 p.m.
Jan. 10: Bleecker & MacDougal (folk ballads)
11 a.m.1 p.m.
Jan. 14: Ron Sweet (folk) 68 p.m.
Jan. 15: Dave Loughran (acoustic classic rock)
68 p.m.
Jan. 16: Irish Session with Sarah Blair, Hilari
Farrington, Benedict Koehler, Katrina VanTyne,
Bob Ryan and others, 25 p.m.
Charlie Os World Famous. 70 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 223-6820.
Every Mon.: Open Mic Comedy Caf, 8 p.m.
Every Tues.: Karaoke Night, 9:30 p.m.
Jan. 8: Abby Jenne & Doug Perkins (acoustic
soul) 6 p.m.; Dirty Boost (rock)
Jan. 9: Amadis (metal) 10 p.m.
Jan. 10: Sunday Night Soul Kitchen (soul music/comfort food) 7 p.m.
Jan. 12: Godfather Karaoke, 9:30 p.m.
Jan. 13: O's Weird Pub Quiz, 57 p.m.
Support at Home (SASH) will provide free blood
pressure screenings and consultations. Firstcome, first-served. For ages 50+. 9:4510:45 a.m.
Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St.,
Montpelier. 223-2518
Discussion of Berlin Pond Charter Change. Jed
and Page Guertin will discuss the issues regarding the Berlin Pond Charter Change and answer
questions. 12 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity
Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. Free; open to the
public. 223-2518
VSAC Financial Aid Forms Workshop. Offers
guidance on filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid.) Ask questions
and learn about the college financial aid process,
including how to apply for scholarships. To fill out
forms, participants should bring social security
number, most recent federal tax return and most
recent W-2 or year-end pay stub. Free. www.vsac.
org/schedule.
Noon8 p.m., Northfield Middle High School,
37 Cross St., Northfield. By appt.: 485-4500
5:30 p.m., Twinfield Union High School
library, 106 Nasmith Brook Rd., Plainfield
67:30 p.m., Stowe High School computer lab,
413 Barrows Rd., Stowe
6:30 p.m., Spaulding High School, 155 Ayers
St., Barre
Thinking Anew about Education in Vermont:
A Discussion. Secretary of Education Rebecca
Holcombe, and Hazen Union School board Chair
Calendar of Events
THE BRIDGE
Kat Wright & the Indomitable Soul Band perform at the Haybarn Theatre
January 15.
Espresso Bueno. 248 N. Main St., Barre. 4790896. Free/by donation. events@espressobueno.
com. espressobueno.com.
Jan. 8: Danielle OHallisey (jazz) 7:30 p.m.;
Become Lovable Problem Child (free jazz) 9 p.m.
Jan. 16: Jason Mallery (singer-songwriter) 7
p.m.; Steve Hartmann (singer-songwriter) 8 p.m.
Jan. 23: The Odd Wednesdays (new wave/progressive) 8 p.m.
Whammy Bar. 7 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 7:30 p.m. 31
County Rd., Calais. Thurs., Free. whammybar1.
com.
Every Wed.: Open mic
Jan. 7: John Smyth
Jan. 8: Miriam Bernardo/Seth Eames
Jan. 9: Red Hot Juba
Jan. 14: Dave Keller
Jan. 15: Marc Delgado
Jan. 16: Penny Arcade
Jan. 22: Two Cents In The Till
SPECIAL EVENTS
Jan. 9: Benefit Concert for Tea House Exchange. 59 p.m. Unitarian Church, 130 Main
St., Montpelier. More info.: Rosalene: 793-9371.
manywordsherbs1.weebly.com
David Kelley discuss Vermont's education system.
Learn what Act 77 and Act 46 are and what these
laws mean for parents, students and teachers. 7
p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St.,
Montpelier. Presented by The Bridge: 223-5112
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16
SUNDAY, JANUARY 17
MONDAY, JANUARY 18
Finding Home: Vermont's Historic and Growing Diversity. Lecture given by Vermont Folklife
Center Co-Director Gregory Sharrow explores
the vital cultures of Vermonts immigrant communities. 1:30 p.m. Vermont History Museum,
109 State St., Montpelier. Museum will be open
noon4 p.m. with free activities for MLK Day.
vermonthistory.org/calendar
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20
Cross-country Ski Bolton with Green Mountain Club. Various distances. All abilities. Bolton
Touring Center. Trail fee. Bring lunch. Contact
Mary G: 622-0585 or Mary S: 505-0603 for
meeting time and place.
Bereavement/Grief Support Group. Open to
anyone who has experienced the death of a loved
one. 1011:30 a.m. Conference Center. 600
Granger Road, Berlin. Free. 223-1878.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 21
Brain Injury Support Group. Open to all survivors, caregivers and adult family members. Third
Thurs., 1:302:30 p.m. Unitarian Church, 130
Main St., Montpelier. 244-6850.
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 15
T H E B R I D G E
Calendar of Events
Visual Arts
EXHIBITS
Through Jan. 8: Ed Epstein, Friends & Stories. Paintings. Central Vermont Medical Center gallery, 130 Fisher
Rd., Berlin. cvmc.org/about-cvmc/cvmc-art-gallery
Through Jan 9: Holiday Group Exhibition. Eight Vermont artists bring cheer to the holidays with sculpture,
assemblage, collage and more. Axels Gallery and Frame
Shop, 5 Stowe St., Waterbury. axelsgallery.com
Through Jan. 15: Cross-stitch and Multi-media by
Heidi Chamberlain & Upcycled Christmas Stockings
by Nancy Gadue. Heidi Chamberlain is an eclectic artist
who does collages and cross stitch. Nancy Gadue, crafter
extraordinaire, creates Christmas stockings with boiled
wool and recycled sweaters. Cheshire Cat, 28 Elm St.,
Montpelier. 223-1981. cheshirecatclothing.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 22
SATURDAY, JANUARY 23
Snowshoe Stowe Pinnacle with Green Mountain Club. Waterbury. Moderate. 2.8 miles round
trip. Contact Steve or Heather for meeting time
and place: stevecbailey@gmail.com or 609-4249238
Capital City Indoor Farmers Market. Over 30
vendors in all, more than half of them selling farm
products. 10 a.m.2 p.m. Montpelier City Hall,
39 Main St., Montpelier. montpelierfarmersmarket.com
Dreaming into the Earth: The Light. Question
your dreams wisdom in ways that open a portal to
your own inner journey. Dream yourself awake to
the earth in an afternoon of ceremony, conversation and sharing of the dream space with each
other. 12:303:30 p.m. Yoga Mountain Center, 7
Main St., Montpelier. Confirm: 522-6889.
Climate Change and the Response of People of
Faith. With speaker Bill McKibben. Vespers to
follow. Refreshments. 4 p.m. St. Jacobs Eastern
Orthodox Church, Rt. 12, Northfield Falls. 4854719
Full Moon Snowshoe Hike. Snowshoe by lunar
light. Night activities will illuminate how wildlife
survives the long nights of winter. Snowshoes
and hot chocolate provided. 78:30 p.m. North
Branch Nature Center, 713 Elm St., Montpelier.
229-6206. $5 members; $10 non-members. northbranchnaturecenter.org.
Jan. 18June 30: Saddle Up! Norwich Cavalry: Training, Touring and Tactics on Horseback. The story of the
Norwich Cavalry and its establishment is full of wonderful images of the days when equines were part of the daily
life at the University. Reception: Jan. 22, 3:305:30
p.m. Norwich University, Sullivan Museum and History Center, 158 Harmon Dr., Northfield. 485-2183.
academics.norwich.edu/museum/
Through July 19: Blue Ribbons & Burlesque: The
Country Fair Photography of Charles Fish. Black and
white photographs capture nature and nurture, theatrical illusion, the pursuit of excellence and even the guilty
pleasures of fair food. Vermont History Museum, 109
State St., Montpelier. Free with admission to museum.
828-2180. vermonthistory.org/calendar
SPECIAL EVENTS
PoemCity 2016
Montpelier
The Kellogg-Hubbard Library invites Vermont poets professional or amateur to
submit their original poems for PoemCity 2016, a citywide event, now in its seventh
year, that displays poetry on local business storefronts as a way to celebrate National Poetry Month. Chosen poems will appear throughout the downtown district of Montpelier
for the month of April.
Poets of all ages are welcome to submit up to three poems no longer than 24 lines each
for consideration for public display. Each poem should be original work by the author,
who must be a Vermont resident or VCFA / Norwich University student or alum. Deadline to submit is January 31.
Visit www.kellogghubbardlibrary.submittable.com to submit.
PoemTown 2016
Randolph
Organizers are soliciting poetry submissions from professional, student and amateur
poets of all ages residing anywhere in Vermont. No more than three poems, each of
24 lines or less, typed or handwritten, should be submitted by mail no later than the
February first deadline to Janet Watton, 1387 Davis Road, Randolph Center, 05061.
For purposes of blind judging, the poet's name, city/town of residence, email address,
and phone number must be entered on the reverse side of the submitted poem page.
Poets are asked to not resubmit work that has been displayed in previous Poetry Alive!,
PoemCity displays in Montpelier, or PoemTown Randolph, or that has previously appeared in print.
By sending work to PoemTown 2016, poets agree that PoemTown may use any poem in
display, in promotional materials, and associated online, print and other media.
PoemTown Randolph 2016 is a public opportunity for Vermont poets to share their
work. Throughout the month of April, posters of 100 selected poems will be displayed
in the main windows and doors of businesses, churches and organizations in Randolph.
Past PoemTown displays and events have received strong support from local businesses
and organizations, and similar enthusiasm is anticipated for the 2016 celebration.
PoemTown organizers are planning special poetry events and poetry readings throughout April in several venues in town, culminating in a celebration at Chandler Music
Hall. Further details will be announced later.
Questions or expressions of interest in planning this years PoemTown events can be
addressed to Janet Watton via email at musbird@gmail.com or by phone at 728-9402.
PAG E 16 J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016
Calendar of Events
Weekly Events
BICYCLING
BUSINESS, FINANCE,
COMPUTERS, EDUCATION
Computer and Online Help. One-on-one computer help. Tues. and Fri., 10 a.m.1 p.m. Waterbury Public Library, 28 N. Main St., Waterbury.
Free. Registration required: 244-7036.
Personal Financial Management Workshops.
Learn about credit/debit cards, credit building and repair, budgeting and identity theft,
insurance, investing, retirement. Tues., 68 p.m.
Central Vermont Medical Center, Conference
Room 3. Registration: 371-4191.
THE BRIDGE
RECYCLING
Additional Recycling. The Additional Recyclables Collection Center accepts scores of hardto-recycle items. Mon., Wed., Fri., noon6 p.m.;
Third Sat., 9 a.m.1 p.m. ARCC, 540 North
Main St., Barre. $1 per carload. 229-9383 x106.
For list of accepted items, go to cvswmd.org/arcc.
RESOURCES
Onion River Exchange Tool Library. 80 tools
both power and manual. Wed., 46 p.m.; Sat.,
911 a.m. 46 Barre St., Montpelier. 661-8959.
info@orexchange.com.
SOLIDARITY/IDENTITY
Womens Group. Women age 40 and older
explore important issues and challenges in their
lives in a warm and supportive environment. Facilitated by psychotherapist Kathleen Zura. Every
Mon., 5:307:30 p.m. 41 Elm St., Montpelier.
223-6564. Insurances accepted.
SPIRITUALITY
Christian Science Reading Room. You're invited
to visit the Reading Room and see what we
have for your spiritual growth. You can borrow,
purchase or simply enjoy material in a quiet study
room. Hours: Wed., 11 a.m.7:15 p.m.; Thurs.
Sat., 11 a.m.1 p.m. 145 State St., Montpelier.
223-2477.
A Course in Miracles. A study in spiritual transformation. Group meets each Tues., 78 p.m.
Christ Episcopal Church, 64 State St., Montpelier. 279-1495.
Christian Counseling. Tues. and Thurs. Daniel
Dr., Barre. Reasonable cost. By appt. only:
479-0302.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. For those
interested in learning about the Catholic faith, or
current Catholics who want to learn more. Wed.,
7 p.m. St. Monica Church, 79 Summer St.,
Barre. Register: 479-3253.
Deepening Our Jewish Roots. Fun, engaging text study and discussion on Jewish
spirituality. Sun., 4:456:15 p.m. Yearning
for Learning Center, Montpelier. 223-0583.
info@yearning4learning.org.
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 17
T H E B R I D G E
Classifieds
Text-only class listings and
classifieds are 50 words for $25.
To place an ad, call Michael,
223-5112 ext. 11.
CLASSES
ALLIANCE FRANAISE
WINTER WARM-UP!
6-week French classes designed to refresh and
firm up your skills, readying you for your next
full-term class. The new session begins on January 11th. Morning and evening classes available
in our Burlington and Colchester locations.
Evening classes only in Montpelier.
For more information please contact our Language Centor Director Micheline Tremblay at
michelineatremblay@gmail.com or at
802-881-8826
CLASSES
Weatherization Remodeling
Rocque Long
Painting
Insured
30+ years professional
experience
local references.
802-223-0389
TAI CHI
Hwa Yu Tai Chi winter-spring semester starts
February 1, twelve weeks/$120. Payment plans
available. New students welcome. Mondays
5:00-6:00 pm, in the Taplin Room, Christ
Church, 64 State St, Montpelier.
Instructor Ellie Hayes has been teaching Tai
Chi since 1974. 456-1983, info@elliehayes.net
HOUSING WANTED
802.262.6013 evenkeelvt.com
New Construction
Renovations
Woodworking
General Contracting
HOUSING WANTED
Nice lady desires nice cottage to rent, long
term. Clean, quiet, references. (619) 420-3312.
Evenings best.
223-3447
clarconstruction.com
NUTRITION
10 DAY GUIDED CLEAN EATING CLEANSE
Start your year off right with 10 days of clean
eating: boost your energy and get back on
track with nourishing foods! Guided through
one-on-one phone consult, informational
guide, food plan, recipes, and ongoing email
support. Adaptable to all dietary preference
and lifestyles. Optional connection with group.
January 18-27, $60. Contact Kim McKellar,
Certified Integrative Health Coach, mckellarwellness@gmail.com
Since 1972
SERVICES
Recycle
This Paper!
Letters
Lets make this New Years resolution about exploring the rich variety
of plant-based entrees, lunch meat alternatives, cheeses, ice creams and
milks, as well as the more traditional green and yellow veggies. The
internet offers tons of recipes and transition tips.
Maxwell Branset, Montpelier
Editor:
Editor:
Here is a letter to the editor that I have written to explain my feelings about the rush to bring
renewable energy into Vermont without any forethought.
Once again, its time for New Year's resolutions, particularly those to improve our diet and
exercise routine.
The process is completely biased towards the developer and the affected citizens are left behind.
Although gun violence and traffic accidents remain the leading causes of death among young
people, the most dangerous weapon for the rest of us is still our fork. Well over a million of us
are killed each year by high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer and other
chronic diseases linked to our meat-based diet.
But times are changing. According to Gallup, 22 percent of American consumers are avoiding meat and 12 percent are avoiding dairy products. Supermarket chains, along with Target
and Walmart, offer a growing selection of delicious and healthy plant-based meat and dairy
alternatives. Animal meat consumption has dropped by 8 percent in the past decade.
Hundreds of school, college, hospital and corporate cafeterias have embraced Meatless Monday and vegan meals. Fast-food chains like Chipotle, Panera, Subway, Taco Bell and White
PAG E 18 J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016
THE BRIDGE
Opinion
Have something important to say? We want to hear it! Send it to us at: editorial@montpelierbridge.com
The Bridge publishes every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month, except in July when we publish only on
the 3rd Thursday. Our next issue comes out January 21.
J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016 PAG E 19
T H E B R I D G E
appy New Year everybody. If 2015 taught me anything, it is that community, our
community, here in Montpelier, has the ability to foster our growth as people,
artists and professionals. We are incredibly blessed to share this place we call
home and to see the beautiful faces we see when we venture outside. Ive been here for
almost five years, and I love this place a little more every day.
I once had a boss who said that when he died, he knew that God wouldnt be asking him
about the money he made or the accomplishments he championed. God would simply ask
...but what about the people? What did you do with all those people?
It was a remarkable statement to make in front of 30 or so people it was genuine and
sweet, and reminded us to appreciate one another. I carry that sentiment with me to
this day. Whether by chance or fate, we have been thrown together into this perpetually
expanding network of creative energy we call community. Going into 2016, I wanted to
reach out to some of the people who make this place special, to see what they are looking
forward to in the new year, and from their responses, it sounds like were going to have a
good one. Thanks all, you inspire me daily.
Tyler Weedon,
Cartoonist and Animator
I was born, raised and educated in Vermont
at Montpelier High School and Bennington
College. Im a professional cartoonist and
animator, specializing in print and film, and
at the moment Im creating a visual label and
school for young visual artists.
I am sincerely looking forward to the arts
community growing this coming year. Center for Art and Learning, Artisans' Hand,
The Front, Local 64, VCFA, Cardboard Tek
and Montpelier Alive's actions have impressively developed an intimate setting for local
artists to partake in the community in Montpelier. This is an exciting time to be present
in this wonderful community.
Xav Jimenez,
Co-Owner Buch
Spieler Records
We are very excited to
continue expanding as a
premier destination and
provider for the Central
Vermont music community. What's currently
in the mix over at BSR
is our ever growing network fostering a super
fun inventory with titles
steadily rolling in, more
up-a nd-coming/established artists opportunities, along with inspired
cultural programming.
Some of our forthcoming collaborations include working with WGDR FM programmers
and educators, Mix-Tapeology and a cassette revival, supporting local architects on a
pedestrian friendly Langdon Street beautification project, a VIP Buyers Club where BSR
staff hand-select vinyl packs for monthly pick-up/delivery, working closer with Montpelier Alive on nurturing cultural awareness in the community, The Brick and Mortar Gold
Club, where local businesses with a turntable receive a different suite of records every
week (our first Gold Club member is Philamena's on Elm St.), an eclectically curated
periodical/journal section offering titles not found anywhere in the state, a special request
page on our website answer a few questions, hit send and we'll begin hunting down
your title, fresh podcasts posted monthly for download, in-house special events with our
friends at Carrier Coffee Roasters, monthly performances (record release parties on our
stage and guest DJs set up in our booth), extending our line of turntable offerings accommodating beginners to audiophiles, new and continued collaborations with regional
contemporary artists on limited edition shirts/totes/posters, exhibitions and journal contributions, and of course, more and more relationships with fantastic record labels i.e.
labels based in Iceland, Tele Aviv, Brazil and London to name a few.
April 1, 2016 will mark one full year of new ownership and two weeks later is our always
banging Spring Record Store Day Party, which is not to be missed. Buch Spieler is an
institution that we keep sacred. Happy New Year!
PAG E 2 0 J A N UA RY 7 J A N UA RY 2 0 , 2 016
THE BRIDGE
Expanding Educational
Opportunities for our
Schoolchildren during
Tough Economic Times
Thursday, January 14
7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Hayes Room at
Kellogg-Hubbard Library