The Bridge, November 21, 2013

Connecting Montpelier and nearby communities since 1993 | November 21–December 11, 2013

In thIs IssuEDave Bennett,

ConneCting through the heart

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continued on page 5

On November 18, Nat Froth-

ingham, Ivan Shadis and Jerry

Carter of The Bridge met with

Bill Fraser, city manager, and

Jessie Baker, assistant city man-

ager, to discuss the impacts and

repercussions of the district

heat project. The following ex-

cerpts are from the range of

topics that were discussed dur-

ing that 90-minute interview.

2008–2011 River Street

construction project

compared to the current

district heat project

Fraser: Well, let me say first of all that River Street was a three-year thing, so I think that was different. What we learned, though, was to have a plan. So we said [for the district heat project], we were going to do the phone system; we said we were going to do our weekly updates through the city system. We said we would be putting it out through the media, through the state and that kind of thing.

We went out to the businesses and said, “This is how we’re going to communicate

District Heat Project Communications

State heat plant under construction. November, 20, 2013.

Photo by Amy Brooks Thornton.

page 2 • November 21– December 11, 2013 The Br idge

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The Br idge November 21– December 11, 2013 • page 3

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Less and less sun, more and more dark. Every year at this time, I reawaken to why our species loves the sunlight and has perhaps always found sheltered, south-facing

sunny locations for winter basking. Not just our species. I know a fine south-facing rock ledge, set about with hemlock, the ledges high enough to catch the sun at mid-day, even on winter solstice. Perhaps it’s too hot in mid- and late summer, but from winter through early summer, it’s so well populated with porcupines that we call it Porcupine Condo. I have yet to see one in sunglasses, but once the snow accumu-lates enough for tracking, their trails, leading from the protected ledge dens to the hemlock feeding trees and back, will once again be one of my favorite spots to visit. —Nona Estrin

Help the Downtown with Capital City Cash

As the dust of this summer’s construction begins to clear, many downtown businesses are looking at a calamitous fourth quarter if this season’s holiday shopping does not leave

them breathing a little easier. One way shoppers can assist is through Capital City Cash, a universal gift certificate started by the Montpelier Business Association to encourage support of local businesses. This ongoing program keeps money out of the big-box stores and circu-lating among businesses in downtown Montpelier. The certificates are redeemable at many businesses (a list is available at montpelieralive.org/capital_city_cash). The certificates do not expire and, like cash, cannot be replaced if lost or stolen. The only difference between green-backs and Capital City Cash is that the latter must be spent downtown. Capital City Cash is available for purchase at the following locations: People’s United Bank (112 State Street of-fice), Capitol Stationers, Bear Pond Books, Woodbury Mountain Toys, Onion River Sports, Artisan’s Hand, Shaw’s (Montpelier) and on the Montpelier Alive website.

Win Prizes and Help Merchants in Waterbury

Montpelier’s not the only community working to support its downtown merchants. Revital-izing Waterbury publicizes their Wrap It Up and Win event, beginning November 29,

with four weekly drawings that finish on December 23, offering a total of 50 prizes from 40 merchants. Shoppers collect stamps on a playing card, their ticket to the weekly gift drawings. For more information, visit revitalizingwaterbury.org or facebook.com/revitalizing waterbury.

Retail News Round the Town

Village Pizza has completed its move to Main Street, across from City Hall, at a storefront previously occupied by Capitol Stationers. Sarducci’s Restaurant will celebrate 20 years

of business in January 2014. Charlie-O’s has joined the Stoli Vodka boycott that developed when Russia’s antigay activities hit the news in summer 2013.

Capital City Construction Update

Because of Barre Street construction complications, reopening of the street to travel has been delayed and is now scheduled for the second week of December, according to the

Montpelier city manager’s weekly report. On the upside of travel in the capital, the I-89 exit 8 northbound on-ramp has reopened, though construction continues (installation of guardrails and signage and pavement striping) and caution is advised. Concerning the district heat sys-tem, the report projects that “[a]s of Friday, November 15th, it is anticipated that Kingsbury Construction will turn the system over to the City on November 26th.”

Firefighter Food Fight

Montpelier firefighters have accepted a challenge from Barre firefighters to see who will collect the most nonperishable food donations for the Salvation Army’s Stuff-A-Truck

campaign, mentioned in the last issue of Heard on the Street. The department with the most donations (by weight) gets their trucks washed by the other town’s firemen. Montpelier’s fire department collection boxes are at the station.

GMP Warns of Phone Scams

Green Mountain Power (GMP) says that callers claiming to represent GMP have been ask-ing for credit card information from GMP customers to pay power bills and threatening

power disconnection if customers don’t comply. Says GMP: “Any customer receiving such a call should not provide the caller with any personal information, including account and credit card numbers. If you have any doubt about the source of the call, you should hang up and call Green Mountain Power’s toll free customer service line at 1-888-835-4672 to verify the caller’s identity. The Attorney General’s office recommends reporting phone scams by calling 1-800-649-2424.”

State of the Union Student Essay Competition Opens

Senator Sanders’ office has announced the opening of the annual State of the Union student essay competition. Submittal deadline for the 250- to 500-word essays is January 10, 2014.

A panel of Vermont high school teachers will judge the essays. The finalists’ essays will be entered into the Congressional Record and posted on the senator’s website and finalists will participate in a roundtable discussion with Sanders. Sanders will visit the winner’s school and hold a student town meeting. For more information, see sanders.senate.gov/stateoftheunion.

STEM Equity Pipeline at Barre Technical Center

The Vermont Agency of Education has announced that Barre Technical Center will be a pilot site for the STEM Equity Pipeline, a project to increase female student participation

in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) related programs. According to the vermont.gov website: “The Agency’s Career Technical Education (CTE) workgroup is coordinating efforts related to the two year project and has assembled a state leadership team, representing a cross-section of state government entities, gender equity experts, second-ary, post-secondary, not-for-profit, and business and industry partners . . . to address gender equity.” The technical center is to receive professional development, technical assistance and access to a national network.

Harwood and Woodbury Are Energy Star Schools

Efficiency Vermont and the Vermont Superintendent’s Association announced that two area schools, Harwood Union High School and Woodbury Elementary School, have been

designated Energy Star schools. That means they’re in the top 25 percent nationally for energy efficiency, and meet stringent standards for health, ventilation, comfort, and lighting quality.

nature Watch

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with you.” And at that time everyone was like, “That seems reasonable.” Nobody said that, that was insufficient.

That [interface with the affected busi-nesses] was one of the things when we started the River Street project we didn’t have in place. We just kind of started the project. Then over time, we said we need to [identify] who’s involved, and by the third summer, [our goal was] to have a plan and follow it. And that worked. So we set out to have a plan and follow it this year, and by and large we did.

Baker: I think we implemented a plan and went with it. I think we absolutely could have done more from the beginning with the business community. We were really relying on partners . . . to come get information rather than doing that push of information, and part of that was also that we were daily managing the works. So, as we were going on meeting with the state and meeting with our consultants and trying to still bring customers online and doing that day-to-day work, we were still trying to put up information and not push-ing it out. I think we could have done a better job of pushing it out, and we’ll look to do that not just in future big projects but in all of our municipal communications moving forward.

The disruptive convergence during leaf season of I-89 ledge work, district heat project and the Barre Street box culvert

Fraser: This is where it gets hard because people think that you can just sort of sched-ule all this work whenever you want and roll this stuff out perfectly. VTrans is VTrans, and they were developing their project inde-pendently. They obviously did know about ours, but in their minds it was, “well you can still get into town.” They certainly let

us know they were doing this, [but] they certainly didn’t coordinate with us in terms of their timing.

The box culvert—well, that is ours. The box culvert has been in disrepair, and it was actually also a dangerous situation. We were concerned with an actual cave-in. That would have catastrophically left a big trench in the middle of the road with no plan to fix it, and it would have been closed longer, because we’d have to take all the time we’re taking now to fix it, plus all the time to develop specs and get a contractor in there, and it would have been closed after the failure. That was one key part of it; this really went bad after Irene. We got FEMA funds and were all prepared to do it this spring, and [then] very good questions got asked about its impact on access to Sabin’s pasture, in terms of its future development, which, as we all know, is a high priority for the city. So we spent a lot of time working with FEMA and other agen-cies around the state, because there’s wetlands there, and Act 250, and what might work as access there before we did something to cut off [the developer’s] access. [Because of all of this], instead of this project being done in the spring, it didn’t get out to bid until the sum-mer and get done [until] the fall. It was an attempt to balance the interest of future hous-ing development interests of the city [against ]six weeks of a road being closed [and the] time of the year.

Bill Fraser discusses the hard realities of a construction project

Fraser: Some are gonna benefit more than others, and so for those that will not benefit, I mean it is [just] one of those things. And I’ve been thinking about this all weekend—how to say this without sounding callous, because I don’t mean to—but when you do a public project, you put a road through someone’s neighborhood, the people along that street, they get the dust; they get this so that everyone else can drive over the road.

And are they ever going to get the equal benefit to whatever might happen? . . . You know, there’s always winners and losers in that regard. [It is] like the three sum-mers on Route 2 [River Street]: everyone likes driving through there now because

it’s nice and smooth and the roundabout’s great, and from our perspective, the sewer and water lines are upgraded; they’re doing what they’re supposed to be doing. But, you know, those people are probably still recov-ering to some extent from that hit.

Crane placing another box culvert section in Barre Street construction project on Thursday, November 14. Photo by Bob Nuner.

VCFA.EDU

Illumination NightDecember 6, 2013 5:30-7:30pm

Phot

o b

y Ro

ger

Cro

wle

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Carillon Concert • Tree Lighting • Refreshments Holiday Carols with the Barretones

Special thanks to Morse Farms

for donating our

holiday tree!

Come sing carols and light the tree during Montpelier Alive's Art Walk. 36 College St. Montpelier, VT

Construction Projects Continued from page 1


by Amy Brooks Thornton

To capture Dave Bennett in words or photos is like looking at one MRI slice of the brain, flat and

translucent, when the actual phenomenon is vibrating, signaling and connecting in a myriad of directions at lightning speed.

Dave Bennett, Community Connections site coordinator at Montpelier High School (MHS), is a phenomenon of connection and heart—and hosts a really cool beard. Bennett is “the epitome of a mountain man, burly and tough, unstoppable, a sheer force of nature,” says Alexandra Stetter, MHS ju-nior and one of Bennett’s Outing Club team leaders. “Yet, under that amazing beard and ridiculous amount of muscle lies a wealth of intelligence and compassion.”

“Dave Bennett is a person filled with love and happiness,” Caleb Basa, MHS senior and also an Outing Club team leader writes, “which radiates from him onto everyone around him.”

With his signature enthusiasm and genu-ine compassion (think outsized hugs), Ben-nett uses every opportunity his role at MHS presents to “make the school somewhere [the students] want to be on a daily basis.” He wants to “be someone they can trust” and “help them achieve things that are re-ally important to them.”

Bennett is no foreigner to achievement; he sets mountain-size goals to match his nature and “is running as fast as [he] can,” he says, to achieve them. Often working without a weekend break, he connects to and supports students through a menu of action-packed

programs he’s created or cocreated. It’s not hard to find Bennett’s imprint

at MHS. In a backroom above the gym, Bennett, with Bill Laidlaw, MHS spe-cial educator, and students, built a well-equipped fitness room with a wide and colorful climbing wall running down one side. Also with Laidlaw, Bennett cofounded and runs Evolve, a fitness program in which students work through physically demand-ing, ground-based movement exercises in an environment of only positive reinforcement, building strength based on “trust and sup-port,” Bennett says.

For his Outing Club adventures in which students learn leadership, overcome chal-lenges and bond through grit, sweat and exhilaration, he takes students kayaking, mountain biking and rock climbing and on overnight and multinight hikes into the mountains. To help feed the Outing Club participants, he manages a vegetable-gardening program on the MHS campus. And he implements or creates events and activities with teachers such as the Iron Chef cooking competition.

In the last four springs, you could also have found him coaching one of the MHS Ultimate Frisbee teams, working the team members until their muscles burned and bouncing along the sidelines of the games with his inimitable positive, high energy, cheering the players on until hoarse.

“Dave connects to the student body more than any other teacher,” Stetter writes, “and it’s literally impossible to cross paths with him in the hallway and not have him try to get you to join some new program that he’s created for Community Connections.”

Bennett’s résumé prior to his Community Connections role is rich with experience. Directly after high school, he enlisted in the Navy. He needed a map. He wanted a jour-ney. “I wanted to make some money and figure out some things about my life,” Ben-nett says. Because he “had visions of jump-ing out of airplanes and deep-sea diving,” he made the recruitment for and trained as a Navy Seal, until he realized he and his team were really being prepared “just to kill people.” “And I couldn’t’ kill a thing,” he says. He broke his Seal contract and went to work on an aircraft carrier.

For four years out at sea, he worked as a V2 or “green shirt,” tasked with the respon-sibility to launch and recover planes, using

and maintaining arresting gear and cata-pults on an aircraft carrier of 6,000 people and 80 airplanes. On deck he learned to work with the young and inexperienced, himself included. Much of the time, he and his crew were “training new pilots, training for any number of horrible potentials.”

The young pilots flew a lot at night, Ben-nett recounts. He remembers often, in his job as a hook runner, being on the flight deck during rough seas, listening to the air boss, the man in charge of all flight-deck operations.

“‘F14 Tomcat at 10 miles,’ then ‘three miles,’ then you look up and the only thing you can see out of all the blackness are these little tiny lights on the wings . . . the entire flight deck is black, and you can see the wings tilting,” says Bennett, spreading his arms wide, tilting them one way and then another, enacting the uncertain flight skills, “and you’re standing right in the path of the airplane . . . When you’re new, it’s hard to judge the perspective, where the airplane is going to end up. Often the airplane is [off track], and you’re running to get out of the way and not get hit.” Bennett ate up the thrill and the challenge: “Once I got on the flight deck, I never wanted to get off.”

Around 23 years of age, the journey ended; Bennett fulfilled his contract with the Navy. But he had started drawing a map. He took on a variety of jobs and ended up in Adirondack Community Col-lege. From there he transferred to Plymouth State to earn his degree in biological science and education with minors in experiential education and chemistry.

After teaching high school biology for a year, he found he “didn’t want to be in the classroom at all” teaching out of text-books and using power points. Inside the classroom walls, Bennett had to convey so much material that he didn’t have time to have conversations with his students, “learn about the students’ interests, things that inspire them.” Bennett felt that build-ing relationships with his students outdoors and encouraging them to experience science firsthand made the educational experience far richer.

Bennett redrew his map and launched a new journey, aligning his internal com-pass to wilderness education. He brought the young and the old, “even elder hostel folks,” into the wild, working as a kayak

and mountaineering guide, with the Ap-palachian Mountain Club as a wilderness teen director, and in Colorado running dog sleds. (“I love dogs,” Bennett says. “I used to live in a 50-dog pack. No, really, with a pack of 50 dogs.”)

In the depths of nature, as the Tucker-man Ravine caretaker and serving as the search-and-rescue team leader for all of the White Mountains, not training as a Navy Seal, he found answers. He lived in the ravine, miles away from anything, 10 days at a time without seeing anyone. And “when it was dark, it was dark,” Bennett says. His job was physically demanding; he was outside most of the time, climbing, collecting avalanche data, working in really cold conditions and, Bennett recalls, “lots of really difficult times pulling people out of rough spots.”

This work was “play” to Bennett; “it was awesome,” he says. He made friends with a fox, which Bennett acknowledges may have crossed wildlife protocol boundaries. But when the fox followed him up snowy trails to ridgelines, curling up next to him and falling asleep as Bennett sat looking out over the mountain—“no skin exposed, with my goggles, I probably looked like a creature”—the two found kinship. “He was my best friend. I never touched him.”

In Tuckerman’s, Bennett also experienced the life-changing impact of nature on oth-ers. When he saw the ebullient, awestruck faces of the hikers as they soaked up and were captivated by the magnificent natural world of the Ravine, “even if they were soaking wet, or exhausted, drenched with sweat . . . it was like they were seeing a puppy.” He realized that “people weren’t getting enough of that.” “It helped me solidify who I wanted to be and how I wanted to be in the world,” Bennett says. He wanted to be “disconnected from elec-tricity and media” and to spend more time with “people I really care about talking and communicating.”

However, the most influential factor that may drive Bennett to connect with his students, earn their trust and provide them positive creative experiences may be his bumpy road in middle and high school, when his map was handed to him, not a creation of his own.

A lot of his childhood, Bennett says,

Beloved Community Connections Site Coordinator Soon to Leave

dave Bennett Connecting Through the Heart

MHS Outing Club, winter expedition, January 2010.

Dave Bennett and Elise Walsh have some chow on the Vermont Long Trail, summer 2011.


“had been times of struggle and being on my own. Often I felt alone.” His parents divorced when he was in fifth grade; his fa-ther left and his mother, a homemaker faced with full time work outside the home and keeping the household running, was “really just picking up the pieces.” “I was dealing with all sorts of things that teens deal with,” Bennett recounts. “Rather than having a parent put their foot down or protect me, I got myself in a lot of trouble . . . I knew what the right thing was, but it was hard to do because of peer pressure or being forced to do things.”

The impact from this time is irrevocable and has determined Bennett’s journey today: genuine, compassionate, consistent connec-tion to build trust. “The biggest thing I want to bring as an adult to teenagers is an objective mind-set so they can come to me and trust me if they have any problems,” Bennett says. “I always wished my dad was around in those [hard] situations, so I would know what to do, what to say.” He adds, “I’m sure he also wishes he was there as well.”

Two weekends ago, Bennett took about 20 MHS students up Carter Notch in New Hampshire. It was the “middle of the night, no lights, only stars . . . We had just crawled through a boulder field with boulders the size of tractor trailers, a lot of kids had never done this before . . . and their eyes [were] opening up, with gasps, [about] the fact they had got themselves there. You could tell their optimism and excitement about life . . . what they thought they were capable of jumped a level. They were excited about what life can potentially be.”

For his students, Bennett is a provider of experientially abundant maps and a guide

for rich and life-affirming journeys. His im-pact is felt by many; yet his gifts of buoyant support, boundless energy, compassion and connection are hard to quantify financially. He wonders whether he can continue fol-lowing his path, about which he is passion-ate, while supporting himself and his fam-ily. Although, Bennett wants to “continue what [he’s] doing now,” the compensation doesn’t pay the bills to support his self-acknowledged Spartan lifestyle, much less support a family—for him, a pressing goal. He is heading to Colorado with his partner, Elise Walsh, where they are both applying to graduate school. Bennett is focused on getting his master’s in social work.

For now, “we’re still living, breathing, in Vermont,” Bennett says softly. “And soon it’s going to snow. To me that means that everything is going to be OK.”

mhs outing Club team leaders

reflect on Dave Bennett

With the reality that college is looming around the corner, I find myself faced with the ques-

tion of what I want to be when I grow up. While I have very little inclination as to what I do want to be, if I had to choose, I would say that I would want to be Dave Bennett. Dave is unreal; he is a superhero.

However, because he is a superhuman, this feat may be near impossible. So while I will never be Dave Bennett, I consider it a blessing to have been able to work with him and even be around him while he has been here. Dave was

one of our school’s most valuable assets and will be sorely missed by all at MHS. —Alexandra Stetter, MHS junior

In the spring of my sophomore year, I made the best decision I have made in my life, signing up to play Ultimate Frisbee. Going into the season, I was the furthest thing

from fit. I showed up on the first day and got the friendliest ass kicking of my life. I didn’t understand how I didn’t get pissed at Dave Bennett for pushing me so hard. It was his positive attitude and his belief in me that got me through that first preseason.

Playing Frisbee I discovered the most accepting, funny and talented group of peers. Not only did I develop a love for the game, but I also developed a connection with Dave Bennett. Ultimate changed the dynamic of my life, but Dave Bennett inspired me to search out new opportunities, reach outside my comfort zone and become an overall more active and self-motivated person. Since that initial season, I have done every single activity, joined every club that Dave was a part of. He even made me enjoy working out, which was something I never thought possible. The adorable, bearded angel changed my life. And his beard showed me what natural beauty really is. Dave Bennett is the only man in the world that can push you to the point of puking and laughing your ass off at the same damn time.

—Ian Browning, MHS senior

It was during one of the final Evolve workouts my freshman year that I experienced the love of Dave. We had just finished a workout doing 100 push-ups and then 100

pull-ups. At the end I was exhausted, and I just felt like lying down. But as I was leav-ing, Dave came up to me and said that he was so proud of me. It doesn’t seem like much, but to me those five words made me feel like I was the king of the world. All my feeling of being tired just vanished, and I could only feel the happiness and love, which Dave had projected onto me. In a way, I have become addicted to him because just being in his presence fills me with the same love, compassion and happiness that he is filled with. Dave overflows with love, and I am so, so grateful that I have been able to experience it.

—Caleb Basa, MHS senior

by Bob Nuner

Recently, word spread among the col-lege bound that high school seniors applying for college were encoun-

tering snags as they applied using the re-vamped Common Application. The prob-lems were national in scope.

The Common Application, or Common App, which allows students to fill out one college application and submit it to multiple schools, attempted an upgrade this past sum-mer, and the rollout, which started August 1, has not been smooth. People in the depths of the process have described its difficulties as “huge.” Though not all students who have applied for early decision or early action have met difficulties as they apply, even if only one or two applicants per high school encounter problems, that adds up to a significant num-ber of applications nationwide.

The problem? The electronic submission mechanism of the Common App has pre-sented failures in some, but by no means all, instances. The difficulties have often been unique, varying with the application, student or school, and not uniform or predictable. Frequently, the result has been that not all the elements of a student’s admission package have arrived at a college’s admission office.

Montpelier High School (MHS) coun-selor Geoff Sather explains that when stu-dents apply to a college, the MHS guidance department submits a variety of support documents, including a student transcript, teacher recommendation(s), an evaluation form that accompanies each teacher recom-mendation, a school report (which portrays things like the student’s class rank and difficulty of course load) and a school pro-file (which covers things like the school’s average SAT scores, class size and where the school’s graduates apply and gain ac-ceptance to college). All the documents may arrive properly, or a college may find that all but one of the documents went through.

Sather emphasizes that the colleges have been good about updating high school guidance offices about missing pieces of an application. They are, he says, very aware of the shortcomings in the system. “They don’t blame the kids,” he notes, and have, as a result, pushed back their early decision and early action deadlines. In turn, high school guidance offices have had to e-mail missing documents directly to the college admissions offices. That’s all been done now, Sather says.

In past weeks, the Common App admin-istration was sending out daily updates at 5:30 a.m. each day, apprising counselors of problems encountered and fixes made in the previous 24 hours. The resulting confusion, however, has caused a flurry of activity at home, at school and at the college admission offices, as each of the responsible parties tries to fix whatever problems have come up and then confirm with each other that the problem has been fixed or the work-around to the problem has succeeded.

The anxiety caused by the problem, along with the time pressure, is exacerbated by early decision and early action procedures. Early decision is a binding agreement in which a student makes one application for a college of choice and and must commit to an admission decision by that college. Early action is not binding, and this is where the majority of snags have occurred. Sather says that the MHS guidance office urges “virtu-ally everyone” in the class to apply to state schools using the early action mechanism, as there are financial incentives for students who follow that route. The wave of applica-tions, and the difficulties that have attended the Common App, have forced colleges to delay their deadlines for early action.

For many schools, that early action dead-line was initially November 1. With the pileup of difficulties, colleges pushed off the early action deadlines to November 11. Concerning UVM, for example, Sather says, “They’ve been very accommodating.” (UVM offers a discount for early applica-tion.) Sather says guidance departments, in concert with requests and recommenda-tions from college admission departments, have e-mailed directly the documents for applications that appear to be missing one of the elements listed above. Colleges notified the high schools, and guidance departments then re-sent missing docu-ments directly to admissions departments, bypassing the Common App mechanism. It’s caused additional work and distraction on both the sending and receiving ends of the process.

For students who have not sought early action or early decision, the regular dead-lines offer a bit more time for the kinks to work out of the Common App system. Sather says that, for the more competitive colleges, the regular deadline for applica-tions is January 1. Colleges with less com-petition for admission may have deadlines toward the middle of that month.

Coping with the College Common App

Online Application Glitches Not Limited to Health Care

Dave Bennett with his 2012 MHS Solons Ultimate Frisbee B team.

Illustration by Julian Kelly.


City Council MeetingNovemBeR 13, 2013

by Ivan Shadis

Conservation Commission Appointment

Ben Eastwood of Montpelier appeared, seeking to fill a seat on the Conservation Commission. The commission is tasked with creating an inventory of “special areas” and natural features to be protected in ac-cord with the master plan and to advise the Planning Commission as necessary. Asked if he would have any bias working on a com-mission within the Planning and Commu-nity Development Department, Eastwood reported that he doesn’t “have any axes to grind.” Eastwood defended Gwendolyn Hallsmith, planning and community devel-opment director, and criticized the mayor and City Council during the special council meeting on November 5. The councilors appointed Eastwood by a unanimous vote.

Parking Fees Parking fees were raised 25 cents, bring-

ing the hourly fare to $2 from the previous $1.75. This raise and other hikes on fees for parking in lots and permit areas are ex-pected to net $214,000 next year: $108,800 in additional meter revenue and $105,525 in revenue from parking lots and permits. Profits will go toward refreshing the pave-ment in some lots.

Lukewarm Response to Public Safety Authority Charter

A move to get a charter proposing a public safety authority onto ballots for town meet-ing day was ill received by boards in each of the four towns solicited. The proposed authority would consolidate state public safety offices within the region. Berlin was concerned about being underrepresented in an authority whose seven board positions would be allocated to participating towns based on their populations, Barre expressed concern about giving up control too quickly, and Barre Town was concerned about the proposed authority’s requirement that it sus-tain full-time emergency services, instead of part-time, in order to qualify. These con-cerns had stopped boards from approving the charter for appearance on their ballots.

Alan Weiss, Tom Golonka and George Malek, who are members of the committee, which has spent the past four years crafting the charter, expressed faith that the creation of a regional authority would curb costs and in-crease efficiency. Malek identified a common concern from the multiple boards: the lack of clarity about exactly how and where personnel and resources would be allocated. “It took us four years to find out that’s not practical,” said Malek, who argued that making these deter-minations must be the first act of the author-ity and that for his committee to make these decisions would be a disservice to the voters in participating towns whose elected officials must make these determinations.

The Montpelier City Council decided to ab-stain from making any commitment until the charter was revised to be more attractive. The committee now hopes to entice towns with a revised charter in time to get on March 2014 ballots. Potential revisions include language about incrementally adding departments to

create a transitional period and increasing the board from seven to 11 to accommodate a larger voting fraction for Berlin.

City Council Approves Funds for DID-endorsed Proposals

Seeking approval to award Downtown Improvement District (DID) monies to se-lected applicants, Kevin Casey, community development specialist, and Philip Zalinger, chair of the DID committee, found them-selves questioned on discrepancies between how the DID was chartered versus how it was shaping up.

Weiss began by criticizing the DID for nonconformity, saying, “When asked about [the mandated] budget, somebody sitting at the table said, ‘Oh we can’t create a budget because we don’t know what we’re going to spend the money for’ . . . I’m convinced there are infirmities within the Downtown Improvement District in assuming [that it can] . . . do what it’s choosing to do when it chooses to do it and pass over something like submitting a budget.”

Zalinger explained, “Our budget is made after we review what comes before us. If we think it merits consideration, we vote affir-matively for it. If we don’t, we vote against it.” Zalinger argued that, as the DID com-mittee did not feel the entire DID annual fund of $75,000, raised through the DID tax, constituted its budget, spending from the fund should be determined by how many proposals were judged to be worth fi-nancing. This prompted a discussion among the councilors over what the responsibilities of the DID should be in steering its spend-ing as opposed to just responding to ap-plicants, but no mandate was handed down during the council meeting.

The council, sans Weiss, approved award-ing $2,000 to the Green Mountain Film Festival for promotional banners and $3,500 to the Summit School of Traditional Music for a Traditional Music Festival. Montpelier Alive received $2,500 for flowers for summer of 2014, $5,000 for new downtown benches and $12,000 for the Montpelier Branding Campaign. Montpelier Alive, who first pro-posed and promoted a DID tax be put on the 2013 ballot, was awarded nearly four-fifths of all monies. Some overlap exists among City Council, Montpelier Alive and the DID com-mittee: Andrew Hooper is a City Council–appointed member on the Montpelier Alive board and Montpelier Alive secretary Claire Benedict serves on the DID committee en-trusted with vetting proposals.

montpelier Alive Promotes Shopping on City’s Dime

On an agenda item separate from the DID awards, Montpelier Alive further so-licited, and was awarded, $12,000 in a one-off extension of municipal support for a holiday promotion of the downtown to help businesses negatively affected by this summer’s construction of the district heat utility. Capital City Cash or free parking may be rewarded to shoppers who enter their receipts from purchases downtown into a lottery; however, the exact nature of the promotion was left to the discretion of Montpelier Alive.

Parking Rates Go Up, Public Safety Authority Charter to Be Revised

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by Cassandra Hemenway

Thanksgiving evokes nostalgia and fond memories—and possibly dread of horrific family dynamics. But ul-

timately the images of this holiday center around feast and family.

Not everyone, however, has access to food or family. In fact, the Vermont Foodbank estimates that at least one in seven Vermont-ers struggles to get food on the table. In Montpelier and the surrounding area, there are several options for people who don’t have a place to go to or a meal to eat on Thanks-giving Day.

Charlie-O’s, MontpelierFor the past four years, Charlie-O’s on

Montpelier’s Main Street has been serving up a free meal on Thanksgiving Day to patrons and anyone else who happens to stop in. The meal starts at 6 p.m. and is kept warm until 10 p.m. Charlie-O’s bartender and entertain-ment manager Beckie Sheloske said, “We sometimes get stragglers in later,” but there always seems to be enough food.

Sheloske found herself inspired by both Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree” (which is played during the Charlie-O’s meal) and by hearing her patrons tell her they had nowhere to go on Thanksgiving. She remem-bered Thanksgivings with her father, listening to “Alice’s Restaurant” on the radio at noon. “[The song] seemed like it had that com-munal feel,” she said. Concerned about the folks who had no place to go, Sheloske said, “I wanted to offer [the patrons] a place with some hominess and comfort on that day.”

Sheloske cooks the meal herself, but des-serts are served potluck style. This year, her dad will be there to enjoy the meal with her.

Sheloske is still looking for pumpkin pie donations and could use help with breaking down and cleaning up. To donate food or help out, stop by Charlie-O’s and fill out the sign-up sheet.

Bethany Church, Montpelier

This year marks the 41st year that the Wash-ington County Youth Service Bureau (WCYSB) hosts a free community Thanksgiving meal for Washington County residents. According to WCYSB, each year at the Bethany Church in Montpelier, hundreds of community members sit down together for a full-course turkey din-ner, and over 200 homebound residents receive a personally delivered meal.

Hundreds of local businesses, community members and bureau staff come together to “deliver meals, prepare meals, package meals

for delivery,” said Christine Hartman, WCYSB receptionist. “Community volunteers come in to serve the meals. Bethany is where we have the sit-down meal, and the Unitarian Church runs the delivery service out of their kitchen . . . Donations come in from businesses all throughout Washington County.”

Hartman said she and all the WCYSB staff get together the day before Thanksgiv-ing to peel potatoes, prep squash and other vegetables and “do some of the major steps that make it easier on Thanksgiving.” Vol-unteers start working in the Bethany Church kitchen at 6:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving morn-ing. Community Partners Spaulding High School and Montpelier High School are cooking turkeys for the meal this year.

“We still need people to make turkeys in their home,” Hartman said. “We provide the turkey and the pan; they just need to provide us an oven to cook it in. We also ask people to make pies to donate . . . We can use volunteers still for every aspect. We still have a couple of slots where people can come in and help out. And we still need volunteers for delivery.”

The dinner will take place on Thanksgiv-ing Day, November 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. For those unable to attend, a delivery service is available. If you need the delivery service or would like to volunteer at the din-ner or contribute in any way, call 229-9151.

Masonic Temple, Barre

Barre Community Thanksgiving Facebook page (facebook.com/events/328815307226419) has posted the following information about a community meal in Barre on Thanksgiving Day at the Masonic Temple, 2 Academy Street, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.:

“This is a community event! Everyone who doesn’t have a place to go for Thanksgiving, or would like to spend it with members of our community, is welcome to come!

“I (Chef Mike Kennedy) and my team of chefs and cooks will be offering a traditional Thanksgiving meal served up by our volun-teers. There will also be door prizes and a 50/50 raffle.

“This is a completely free event but we will need a lot of help with donations and volun-teers. We are asking for all the food to be donated. A menu will be up soon and there will be a way for people to offer to purchase items for the dinner. We’ll continue posting about more details as it gets closer. Please share this event with everyone!”

To find out about more Thanksgiving meals or how to find a local food shelf, the Vermont Foodbank suggests calling 211.

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Waste Not, Want NotDirecting Excess Food to Those in Need

by Cassandra Hemenway

As our food goes from farm to fork to landfill, we Americans waste a whopping 40 percent of it, according to a 2012 study by the Natural Resources Defense

Council, and that number gets even higher during the holidays. “Getting food from the farm to our fork eats up 10 percent of the total U.S. energy budget, uses 50 percent of U.S. land, and swallows 80 percent of all freshwater consumed in the United States. Yet, 40 percent of food in the United States today goes uneaten,” so begins the study’s abstract.

The Vermont Foodbank has been aware of this disgraceful situation for years and has specialized in redirecting that wasted food toward the 86,000 (one in seven) Vermonters struggling to put food on their table, said Judy Stermer, Ver-mont Foodbank’s director of communications and public affairs. In fact, Ver-mont’s new solid waste law, Act 148, prioritizes feeding humans with the surplus food over feeding animals or composting. By 2020, food scraps will be totally banned from the landfill. Stermer said the food bank has been working closely with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources and other entities via a task force to help implement the law.

“We are helping other places get on board in a way that is respectful . . . to ensure food that is being wasted . . . is [instead] being consumed by folks in need and is making its way to the food bank and our network of partners,” Stermer said.

Stermer also said that grocery stores have never been more adept than they are now at preventing waste. “They know how many boxes of cereal sold on Tuesday, so they’re not overbuying and the manufacturer is not overproducing,” she said. Though this is good news for preventing food waste, these efficiencies also mean donations to the Vermont Foodbank have gone down.

The best way to help families who need food, Stermer said, is to donate money to a local food shelf or to the Vermont Foodbank itself. The food bank can get three meals out of a one-dollar donation because of the massive volume in which they handle food, she added.

“[The food bank] is not working with a can of food or a case of mac and cheese,” Stermer said. “We’re working with pallets and truck loads of food. We’re distribut-ing 8.3 million pounds of food every year. We’re dealing with a huge volume, so our money goes further at the Vermont Foodbank.”

To learn more about how to donate to the Vermont Foodbank go to vtfoodbank.org.

The Montpelier Community Gospel Choir. Photo courtesy of MCGC.

You don’t have to read music to join the Montpelier Community Gospel Choir, which has been exciting audiences since 1994. The only requirement is a love of singing. From

its humble origins of about 15 people, the group has grown to a choir of 70 regular singers. This animated spiritual group is joined by some of central Vermont’s finest musicians, who plug in to add a rousing, soul-shaking sound that leaves its audience refilled, reconnected and reenergized.

Come and get energized with the Montpelier Community Gospel Choir on Saturday, December 7, 7 p.m., at the First Universalist Church in Barre, and on Sunday, December 8, 4 p.m., at the Bethany Church in Montpelier. Check the choir out on Facebook and on the choir’s website at vtgospel.com.

Make a Joyful Noise


Construction Zone

A Message from City HallThis page was paid for by the City of Montpelier.

by William Fraser, city manager

I would like to profoundly thank the visitors to, residents of and, most of all, merchants in Montpelier for their patient tolerance of the very intrusive and disruptive dis-

trict heat project, which has been under construction from April through November. We at City Hall are fully aware of the many problems, inconveniences and business impacts that occurred. Working on such a large and complex project in a compact downtown with a short construction season is full of challenges.

District heat Montpelier is an important project for the city for many reasons, which have been widely discussed. It will provide an opportunity for renewable, locally sourced energy to serve public and private buildings, while stabiliz-ing heat costs for participants, including all publicly funded entities along the route.

During the project, we have endeavored to provide excel-lent project management and communications. Regardless of what we have done, we certainly acknowledge that our practices could always be improved. It is highly unlikely that we will have a project this far reaching, long lasting and complex any time soon. Over the next few years, how-ever, we will be reconstructing and repaving State Street, replacing the Rialto Bridge on State Street, repaving Main Street and potentially expanding the heating system. Any comments and suggestions will certainly inform both our general communications improvements and project specific communication improvements in the future.

CommunicationsAllow me to outline the city’s efforts to date to commu-

nicate about the district heat Montpelier construction, some of which worked more effectively than others. The city did the following:

• Provided weekly updates on a dedicated phone line: 262-6200. This worked effectively until October 21, when the fiber-optic line serving the city was cut. This resulted in a reboot of the city hall telephone system, causing the initial April message to start playing again. We became aware of this problem last week. It has since been corrected, and the proper messages are again playing.

• Provided weekly updates in the manager’s report for City Council, the media and the public. These weekly up-dates were also published on a special page of the website for the construction projected, linked directly off the city’s home page.

• Provided weekly updates to VTrans so that the depart-ment could include these updates in its weekly “On the Road” segments in media venues across the state.

• Met with the Montpelier Business Association at the start of the project to tell members what we knew at the time and outlined the communication channels listed above. Assistant City Manager Jessie Baker has also started attending these meetings regularly to provide updates on all city projects.

• Offered to meet with anyone at any time about the construction and often did.

• Went door to door on Langdon Street to talk about the shutdown of that street.

• Sent three e-mails to the business community since September through Montpelier Alive and the Montpelier

Business Association. Our belief was that these organiza-tions have more comprehensive business e-mail distribution lists than the city has. With the council’s and my priority of improving communications and implementing a new website, building our own network of contacts will be a priority. But we will continue to count on these two main organizations in our city to help with outreach.

In addition to these efforts, The Bridge published articles from April through November that discussed district heat and all our other projects. The April article outlined the communication plans in advance.

All of the above were consistent with, and exceeded, our announced communications plan in April. In hindsight, how-ever, there are certainly additional steps that I should have taken, such as sending the weekly updates directly to the mer-chant community and conducting more specific meetings for people to air concerns. I felt that people knew we were always willing to listen, but that may not have been sufficient.

A major challenge with communication was the con-stantly changing schedule of the contractor’s work, which is the contractor’s prerogative. We found ourselves in the position of communicating information that was accurate on Friday but had already changed by the following Mon-day or Tuesday.

One major communication failing was the emphasis on completion of the piping system in October rather than the completion of the entire project by November 30. It seems clear that people did not expect the amount of construction that has occurred in the latter weeks. The contract always called for the placement of concrete slabs, sidewalk repair, final installation of building connections and final paving during this time. I acknowledge that I did not realize the extent of the disruption necessary to complete the work once the mains were finished.

Project ManagementGiven the large investment of funds involved, we placed

major emphasis on the quality of the work. Recognizing the complexity and uniqueness of this project, the city in-stituted the following management practices:

• We hired two professional, independent inspectors to be onsite every day to oversee construction and protect the city’s interest.

• We ensured that the city’s project engineer was assigned to work on this project full-time since May. This engineer has significant construction management experience in both the private and public sectors.

• We held weekly meetings with the contractor, the Department of Public Works (DPW), the Department of Public Safety and the city manager’s office to manage the week-to-week work of the project.

• We held monthly budget review meetings between DPW and the contractor to ensure that funds were spent appropriately.

Many questions were raised about why the contractor’s schedule changed frequently. The contractor owns the “means and methods” of completing the project. This is standard practice on municipal construction projects and means that the contractor decides how, when and where resources are deployed on a project, as long as the contrac-tor delivers a quality product per the contract. This is very typical on a construction project of this size.

Many factors can (and in this case did) impact where and how a contractor chooses to deploy resources. For example, on this construction project, the schedule changed because of weather, discovering underground utilities that required redesigns on the engineering side and changes in the sched-uled delivery of materials. Just because the location sched-ule changed does not mean that the project was failing. In fact, at times it meant that the contractor was effectively and efficiently deploying the resources it had when other resources or materials were not yet ready.

Questions have also arisen about why some areas were dug, filled and redug. This project included very compli-cated construction and installation that required a series of installation procedures. The piping that is installed is sophisticated and involves a steel pipe requiring specialized welding. The welded pipe is then wrapped in several inches of insulation with alarm wires installed. Finally, the whole thing is wrapped in a protective plastic sheeting. During installation, it was common that an area had to be exca-vated and then piping installed, welded and covered for the night to protect it, then redug, wrapped and covered for

protection, then redug again to do alarm wire testing once a completion run of wiring was installed, and then finally covered. With the heat mains now complete, the contractor is currently reexcavating to install final paving and make minor adjustments. I understand that this could be per-ceived as inefficient. In fact, this installation was needed to ensure the quality of this sophisticated distribution system.

The other piece of work being completed is the connec-tions within the user buildings. Obviously, all piping must be inspected to assure that there is no leaking or problem in any building. Questions have been asked about the late time of the NECI service connection. The work connecting to the inside of NECI involves going through their outdoor deck and almost dismantling it. NECI was reluctant to grant permission to go on its property until the outside seat-ing was essentially over for the season. This is a drastically different scenario than the work that was done in the public right-of-way for the rest of the project. When exploratory digging was performed, the contractor realized that it could not connect as originally designed. The needed changes drove the cost of this connection up significantly. There-fore, there was a period of several weeks where NECI and the city worked together to determine whether this should be installed. When work was happening on private property (i.e., not in the city’s right-of-way), the city and contractor tried to be very responsive to the needs of the customers. In several cases, the schedule changed to accommodate the particular needs of customers.

Some things did not go as well as planned. While the overall contract has always had a November 30 comple-tion date, the original anticipation was that the bulk of the underground pipe work would be completed by October 1. That date was ultimately extended to October 18. The extension was necessary due to some uncontrollable delays and the emphasis on overall project quality. It was impor-tant to get the installation correct this year, so that we don’t have to come back next year. The subsurface construction time certainly added to disruption in town and also resulted in more concentrated final work in order to meet the con-tract closing date.

We also had some challenges with the contractor about issues like maintaining sidewalk access, parking of equip-ment, encroachment onto private property and communi-cations with the city when something went awry. Most of those incidents were resolved, but I am aware that some of them left a bad taste in people’s mouths.

What’s Left?During the week of November 18–22, the contractor will

finish paving along Taylor, East State and Main streets. Parking may be limited and traffic rerouted.

Contractors will also be finishing installation of the final concrete slabs on Langdon Street. These concrete slabs protect the heat main and valve structures in places where they are close to the surface of the road. During this period, parking may be limited, and traffic may be detoured at Langdon Street to accommodate the machinery. After the final concrete slabs are in place, final paving will be com-pleted on Langdon Street.

Finally, this week the contractor will finish flushing the distribution system. This involves pumping water into the distribution system and draining it to ensure the heat main is free of any debris. During this time, residents will see large vactor trucks working to pump water, and parking may be disrupted.

The current schedule calls for the contractor to turn the system over to the city on Tuesday, November 26. After Thanksgiving, the city will complete the commissioning and inspection process. The minisystem is expected to be functioning by early December. Work on the state’s heating plant continues with the new biomass boilers expected to be functional by March. The fully integrated system will begin commercial operation for October 1, 2014.

Again, I must express my appreciation to all who put up with this seemingly endless project. The community will benefit from the stable costs of renewable energy for years to come but certainly had to tolerate a huge amount of down-town construction along with many other infrastructure projects, which were occurring throughout the city.

Thank you for reading this article and for your interest in Montpelier city government. Please feel free to contact me at 223-9502 or [email protected] with any ques-tions or comments.

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by Jeremy Lesniak

In a nutshell, SEO, or search engine optimization, is the practice of tuning a website so that it is a high-ranking

result when someone uses a search engine. In other words, SEO is how you make your website show up on the first page of search results, be it Google, Bing or another one.

Search engine optimization is a critical piece to any marketing strategy. If you have a website, you should care about it showing up when someone tries to find your organization or searches for someone that does what you do. Just as the yellow pages help someone look up a particular category, SEO will help your website show up when someone Googles you or what you do. Let’s review the finer points of how this all works and how you can help your website rank well.

Use keywords. It’s an important first step to consider the words your customers will use when looking for your website. These in-clude your business name, but also geographic terms such as city and state. You also want to remember the different ways to describe the products and services you offer. It’s important that all these terms show up in your website—and more than once. They can be spread across different pages, so don’t worry about cramming them all into a single location. You might also consider that some people will misspell relevant words or even describe things differently than you would. The chal-lenge comes in using these terms throughout the site but also making sure that your text doesn’t read like a list of keywords. After all, once someone comes to your website, you want that person to take action. Poorly writ-ten text may get people to your website, but it won’t get them to go further.

Write original content. If you borrow too much content from other websites, it won’t help you; in fact, it can hurt your search en-gine ranking. Be sure that the content on your website is your own, and add or change it once in a while. These changes don’t have to be big, but freshening things can help your ranking. Adding a blog to your site can be an easy way to accomplish this.

Use images. Adding images to your site will improve your ranking, especially if the

images are original and relevant to your content. Better yet, filling out the descrip-tion and “alt text” fields for the images you post is helpful. Make sure that you use rel-evant keywords and phrases here, too.

Word count. Having pages with too little text doesn’t seem to make search engines happy. Aim for at least 300 words on any of your website’s pages. There’s no maximum, but you’ll want to consider that too much text can overwhelm a reader.

Fill in the meta fields. All web pages use some meta fields: tags, description and title are the three primary ones. In many web-sites, especially those created by an editing platform like Wordpress, these fields are left blank. While not major factors in SEO, they do help. Make sure yours are filled out with proper language.

Beware of snake oil salesmen. The world is full of businesses that “promise you the no. 1 position on Google” for a few thousand dollars. This sounds very tempting, especially if you’re in a competitive industry. Unfortu-nately, it’s not as simple as all that. Third par-ties that promise you anything with regards to SEO are likely underhanded and may even be using tactics that will get you banned from search engines. Proper SEO takes time to ac-complish, so be patient.

Track your progress. Any marketing campaign should track results. The beauty to marketing your website is that you have an easy way to find out if your efforts are effective. Whatever website tracking system you use, be it Google Analytics or some-thing else, check in every two to four weeks to see how things are going. Dramatic shifts could signal that you’re doing something wrong (or right!).

Consider enlisting an expert. As with most areas, there are people out there who know it inside and out. While you can certainly do the majority of your website’s SEO work, if you’d like, routine check-ins with an expert can help you best target your efforts.

I often hear people refer to SEO as black magic. It’s true that there’s a bit of wizardry going on here, as search engines don’t tell us their algorithms. We have no idea how im-portant certain factors are. If we knew the algorithms, it would be easy for any website to do exactly what the algorithm wanted, and then every website would be tied for first place.

Proper search engine optimization is a slow grind, requiring small changes and patiently waiting to see the results. While it may not be something your organization wants to tackle in-house, it’s something that every business owner and upper-level man-ager should understand.

Jeremy Lesniak founded Vermont Comput-ing (vermontcomputing.com) in 2001, after graduating from Clark University, and opened a store at 23 Merchants Row, Randolph, in May 2003. He also serves as managing editor for anewdomain.net. He resides in Moretown.

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Hands-On Gardenerby Miriam Hansen

November is a good time to talk about recipes; Thanksgiving is com-ing after all. And though I realize

a recipe that calls for tomatillos is hardly timely, I just can’t resist.

If you are not familiar with the tomatillo, it is well worth making its acquaintance. Along with ground cherries, the tomatillo is the most commonly cultivated husk tomato, so called because of the pale brown, papery husk that covers the maturing fruit. Their smaller and sweeter cousin, the ground cherry, ripens from green to apricot gold. Tomatillos ripen from green to pale yellow and are the key ingredient in salsa verde, the staple sauce in Mexican kitchens.

One thing to note about tomatillos is that some varieties mature to three or four inches, while others only reach about one inch across. Make sure to grow the larger ones, and you can ensure this by looking for the tell-tale word large in the fruit’s description. Johnny’s Selected Seeds carries ‘Toma Verde’ (Physalis ixocarpa), a good variety if you’re growing from seed. If you are buying plants, ask the seller how big the fruit get. Tomatillos are easy to grow, and once you’ve raised them in your garden, they readily self-seed. Keep an eye out for the seedlings in late spring, and transplant them where you want them. They need two to three times the space that tomatoes need to grow. You can let them sprawl. We stake or cage our plants, mainly to contain them and keep the fruit off the ground.

I’ve always roasted tomatillos to make salsa, but when a Mexican friend recently taught me to make salsa verde, I got a whole new perspective on what a tomatillo can do. Here is what she taught me. Remove the husks and rinse the tomatillos. They will feel a bit sticky. Then halve or quarter eight to 10 (depending on their size), combine with a chopped onion, a smashed and peeled garlic, a bunch or two of cilantro, a green habanero pepper (no seeds) and a few tablespoons of water. Everything goes in the blender using the mix button. This seems to matter. Yuri, my Mexican friend, said not to puree them.

The bright green sauce can be frozen for later use or you can “fry” it in a bit of oil in a skillet or saucepan until the color deepens to dark green. Add salt and pepper to taste, and you have salsa verde. Yuri taught me to make omelets that we folded and folded again and then cooked in the sauce. Deli-cious! I’ve also used it as a kind of base for cooking chicken. It has an amazing flavor. I’m planning to grow many tomatillos next year.

A recipe that is a little timelier calls for beets. Though wonderful roasted, here is another way to get your kids to fall in love with them. Shred the beets and sauté them in a little butter. Add lime juice as you sauté them until they are soft. You can also add a bit of honey, salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked—it doesn’t take long—put them in a beautiful bowl and garnish with lime zest. Everyone will want your recipe.

And then there are pickled carrots. I’ve been making these for about 30 years. They are a bit time consuming because you have to peel, slice and insert the carrots in the quart mason jars, but once that is done, you just pour over the brine and process for 10 minutes. Carrot pickles seem to be irresist-ible to children. It is not unusual for kids to go through a quart of pickles at a sitting. So if you have a child who cannot be convinced to eat carrots, this the recipe is for you.

Peel and slice about five pounds of car-rots. Place a couple of cloves of garlic and two to three heads of dill (or dill leaves if you have no heads) into sterilized mason jars. Wide-mouthed jars are best because it is easier to stuff the carrots into the wider opening. Place the jar on its side and con-tinue inserting carrot spears until the spears are so tight you can’t fit in any more. Leave an inch of room between the top of the jar and the tallest spear. If you have cabbages, place a cabbage leaf over the top. This is optional, but the pickled cabbage leaves are delicious.

Make a brine of three quarts of water, one quart of vinegar and seven-eighths cup of kosher salt. This is the one part of the recipe that must be exact. I can’t tell you why, but this is actually the perfect brine for everything from cucumbers to green beans to cabbage to carrots. Heat the brine to just boiling, turn off the heat and fill each jar of carrots to one-half to three-quarters of an inch below the top. Screw on your sterilized lids and process for 10 minutes.

Years ago, a gardening friend told me that you have to make pickles in August to have them ready for Thanksgiving. She was right about a lot of things but not about that. I’ll be making these carrots pickles mid-November. They’ll be ready to eat on Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy eating!

The Hands on Gardener column will be back in January to talk about seed catalogs and ordering seeds. Miriam and her husband, David, grow most of their own food on less than a quarter of an acre. If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to contact Miriam at [email protected].

Salsa Verde, Lime Beets and Carrot Pickles

229-6575

Tell them you saw it in The Bridge!


11/29 Flannel Friday Get 20% off on cookbooks if you are wearing flannel

11/29 A Special Storytime With

Tracey Campbell Pearson 11am–1pm • Tracey will read from several of her books, draw some favorite characters, and sign books. Her new book is Elephant’s Story.

11/30 Authors Work the StacksFrom 10am–2pm local authors will be hand selling some of their favorite books. Put them to work selling to you. Sarah Stewart Taylor, Howard Norman, Linda Urban, Tom Greene, Jennifer McMahon, Howard Frank Mosher, Leda Schubert, M.T. Anderson.

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by Nat Frothingham

“It’s useful to look at where we were, where we are and where we might go,” said Jay Ancel, a longtime Montpelier architect with Black River Design.

Ancel remembers back 30 years or so ago, when a number of historic downtown Montpelier buildings, like the old Nelson Brothers, the offices of the Brown Insurance Company at 17 State Street and the old Vogue Shop at the corner of State and Main, were encased with Alcoa Modern screw-on metal facades.

“You couldn’t tell what the buildings were, or what they used to be. Luckily, this ‘new beauty’ was only skin deep, and the fronts were removed,” Ancel said.

He also remembered the downtown sidewalks. “The sidewalks were asphalt with weeds on the perimeters. That’s where we were,” he said.

Ancel has a strong memory for the business mix 30 years ago. One restaurant was the Lobster Pot. Then there was Nate’s Clothing Store and Buch Spieler, and Bear Pond Books had a single store where Main Street intersects with Langdon Street.

“Looking at the mix of businesses now, I think we’ve come a long way,” Ancel said.As he looks ahead to the future, Ancel hopes that locally owned downtown businesses

will continue to flourish. “This is a community that works for those who live here,” he said. He feels that authenticity is what makes Montpelier attractive as opposed to, for example, making the city solely attractive to tourists or cloning “homogenized” America where, com-mented Ancel, “you could be nowhere, you could be anywhere.”

The excitement of Montpelier is going into stores with personality and service, like Ver-mont Trading Co., Delish candy store or GuitarSam, the downtown store that sells musical

instruments. He highlighted New England Culinary Institute (NECI) and its teaching facilities. “This [goes] beyond just serving meals,” he said.

Beyond the contemporary downtown business mix is the range of architecture. “We have all periods of architecture and fabrics,” he said.

Ancel wants to preserve what we have and, where appropriate, add buildings with sensi-tive contemporary architecture. For the central business district, he’s a fan of form-based zoning, which recognizes the benefits of mixed use, downtown density and design that responds to the pedestrian. Form-based zoning requires a building to observe certain forms, such as its relationship to other buildings, and with parking behind or under the building. Form-based building codes permit a variety of uses. At street level are retail businesses while offices, cottage industries and residences are located above.

“We should and are encouraging [the downtown] being walkable,” he said. “Also, we should promote the character and identity of neighborhoods.”

Ancel sees growth as an important part of community health and viability, arguing that Montpelier should encourage well-planned, new multifamily and cottage-style compact neighborhoods, responsive to the shortage of quality housing. Sabin’s pasture, he noted, could support views, open space, pathways and quality additional residential or mixed-use development.

Ancel supports Montpelier’s general inclusiveness, where citizens are invited—and do—contribute their ideas. “But our planning process sometimes overstudies things,” he said. Someone recently suggested “a committee on committees.” Said Ancel, “Perhaps at times we could use more product and less process. We have a community that is the envy of many. Together we can make it even better.”

Jay Ancel: Montpelier Architect with Black River Design

104!Gladys Divall of Barre takes in a ray of sun on her 104th

birthday.

Photo by Ivan Shadis



Tiny Bitescompiled by Lisa Masé

Kathleen Merrigan, former deputy secretary to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), gave a talk called Local Food for Healthy Communities in Richmond.

During her tenure at the USDA, Merrigan launched the “Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food” program and oversaw the development of the USDA’s organic standards. Her talk at the Vermont Community Foundation’s Farm & Food Initiative event highlighted the importance of school lunch. “My kids have 20 minutes for lunch. We need to make lunch time a part of school,” she said. She anticipates funding may become available for programs that connect the youngest students with healthy local food. To learn more about the Farm & Food Initiative, visit vermontcf.org.

The Northeast Organic Farming Association’s (NOFA) Agricultural Literacy Week promotes educational events to encourage a robust understanding of agriculture in

Vermont’s schools and communities. NOFA’s Farm to Community mentors help to organize events at schools, libraries, farms and other community centers. Events include movies, guest speakers, harvest celebrations, community projects and more. Would you like to organize or host a farm-focused event? This is your chance to participate! Contact Megan Hartigan at 793-6574. For details, visit nofavt.org.

The Farm to Plate (F2P) Network just held its annual meeting in Killington. More than 250 farmers and local food organization representatives attended from all over New

England. The F2P Network is a self-governing collaborative made up of farm and food sys-tem businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, funders, educational institutions and com-munity groups, all working together to reach the 25 goals in the F2P Strategic Plan. Would you like to help strengthen Vermont’s local food system? Visit vtfoodatlas.com.

EAT: The Social Life of Food is an exhibit at the Fleming Museum in Burlington. It ex-plores the different ways that people interact with food, from preparation to eating and

beyond. A wide-ranging collection of objects, from an ancient Egyptian offering slab to an Andy Warhol photograph, reflect how food shares an intrinsic cultural value that spans cultural, geographical and temporal boundaries. The student curators encourage viewers to question how food has shaped their lives and the way that social interactions color their experiences of food. Exhibit runs through May 18, 2014. Visit uvm.edu/~fleming or call 656-2090 for museum hours and details.

Peacham author Edward Behr, known for his quarterly magazine The Art of Eating, has just published his new book: 50 Foods: The Essentials of Good Taste. His book takes

readers on a journey through the finer flavors in life, from garden green beans to heavy cream. Behr’s writing focuses on taste, linking flavors to the places in which food is grown. He writes about innovative farmers and food artisans in Europe and the United States. His recipe books, The Artful Eater (2004) and The Art of Eating Cookbook (2011), are as engag-ing as they are useful. His latest tome proves to be the same.

Lisa Masé is a food writer, food as medicine educator and folk herbalist living in central Vermont. For recipes and writings on the healing power of food, visit harmonizedcookery.com. Send food news to [email protected].

Food News You Can Use

Did You Know?Americans waste 40% of their food, and that number increases over the holidays. Shop smart; compost scraps.

Compost.Central Vermont Solid Waste Management District802.229.9383 • CVSWMD.ORG

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HOURS: Mon–Fri, 8–6; Sat 8–5

Thanksgiving Farmers MarketSaturday, November 23, 10 am–2 pmMontpelier High School gym

Pick up everything you’ll need for your holiday celebration at our biggest market of the year. Fresh farm products, crafts, prepared foods and more.Visit us on Facebook or montpelierfarmersmarket.com

Give thanks for local food!Young farmer at Applecheek Farm


Nov. 21 Planting for Pollinators. With Charlie Nardozzi. Learn about the best ways to attract and support pollinators in your landscape by planting the right trees, shrubs, flowers and herbs. 7p.m. $5 suggested donation. Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., Montpelier. 229-6206. northbranchnaturecenter.org.

Songwriters’ Meeting. Meeting of the Northern VT/NH chapter of the Nashville Songwriters Association International. Bring copies of your work. Third Thurs., 6:45 p.m. Catamount Arts, St. Johnsbury. John, 633-2204.

Diabetes Discussion Group. Focus on self-management. Open to anyone with diabetes and their families. Third Thurs., 1:30 p.m. The Health Center, Plainfield. Free. Don 322-6600 or [email protected].

Survivors of Suicide Loss Support. Monthly group for people affected by a suicide death. Third Thurs., 6–7:30 p.m. Central Vermont Medical Center, conference rm. 1, Fisher Rd., Berlin. 223-0924. [email protected].

Library Film Series. Third Thurs., 7 p.m. Jaquith Public Library, 122 School St., Marshfield. For film schedule: 426-3581 or [email protected]. marshfield.lib.vt.us.

Ecumenical Group. Songs of praise, Bible teaching, fellowship. First and third Thurs., 7–9 p.m. Jabbok Center for Christian Living, 8 Daniel Dr., Barre. Free. 479-0302.

Nov. 22 Health Care Information Table. Peter Sterling, executive director of the Vermont Campaign for Health Care Security, will help you find the right plan for you.10 a.m.–2 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. [email protected]. kellogghubbard.org. Event repeats on Nov. 25 and 26.

Storytime with Ben Matchstick. Brilliant one-man show. 10:30 a.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. kellogghubbard.org.

Advance Directives Assistance. Information on funeral planning; forms available. Sponsored by the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Vermont. Appointments: 2–4 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St. Free, but donations to MSAC appreciated. Call a day in advance for appointment: 223-8140.

Reading and Book Signing: Down and Up with Lena LaRocha. With E. Montpelier author Molly Power. 5–6:30 p.m. Adamant Co-op, 1313 Haggett Rd., Adamant. Free. 223-5760. [email protected].

Lights on After-school Event. Community Connections presents event to support after-school programming: kids’ performances, activities, games, arts and crafts and more. 6–8 p.m. Union Elementary School Cafeteria, 1 Park Ave., Montpelier. Free. 225-8259. [email protected].

Winter Wildlife Tracking. With John Jose, biologist. Sand-filled trays and plaster casts

used to identify animal tracks and track patterns. 6–7:15 p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop community room, Stone Cutters Way, Montpelier. $10 member-owners; $12 nonmembers; $5 children. Preregister: 223-8000 x202. [email protected].

Film: A Shot in the Dark. Pink Panther movie with Peter Sellers. BYOS(nacks). 6:30 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St. Free. [email protected] or 229-9630.

Summit School of Traditional Music and Culture Benefit. Square dancing and pie eating. Old-time music by Kick em Jenny; Jennifer Steckler calling. 7 p.m. Montpelier Grange Hall, Rte.12S $10 adults; under 12 are free. summit-school.org.

Nov. 23 Changing Your Mind: Thought Transformation as a Daily Practice. With Ven. Tenzin Chogkyi. The Eight Verses of Mind Transformation by Geshe Langri Tangpa will be presented along with instruction on tong-len (giving and taking) meditation. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Milarepa Center, 1344 Rte. 5 S., Barnet. By donation. 633-4136. [email protected]. milarepacener.org.

Kids Creating Music. Sing, dance and play musical instruments with Bob Brookens. Age 18 months to 4 years. 10 a.m. Waterbury Public Library. 244-7036.

Community Lantern Workshop. Led by artist Gowri Savoor. Tools and materials provided. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe. Free. 778-0334. [email protected]. ariveroflightinwaterbury.wordpress.com.

Capital City Farmers Thanksgiving Market. Biggest market of the year with 50 farmers, food producers and craftspeople.10 a.m.–2 p.m. Montpelier High School. 223-2958. [email protected]. montpelierfarmersmarket.com.

Nov. 23–Dec. 7A Community of Abundance Silent Auction. Fundraiser for Onion River Exchange. Over 40 items for bid: sailing on Lake Champlain, pottery, chocolate, massage, artwork and more. Winning bids over $25 receive free, one-year membership in ORE. Bidding Nov. 23–Dec. 7 at the farmers’ market; Nov. 25–Dec. 7 at Montpelier Senior Activity Center. 552-3040. [email protected].

Nov. 24Walk the Burlington Bike Path. With the Green Mountain Club. 10 miles round-trip. Echo Center to the Colchester municipal line across the Winooski River Bridge and return. Contact Michael Chernick, 249-0520 or [email protected], for meeting place and time.

November Medicinal Plant Walk. With Rebecca Dalgin, clinical herbalist. Learn about medicinal plants widely distributed throughout our area. 1–2:30 p.m. Flanders/EarthWalk building, Goddard College, 123 Pitkin Rd., Plainfield. Sliding scale $4–$10. 552-0727. wildheartwellness.net.

Black Market Bounty. Rural Vermont presents storytelling and harvest potluck: farmers and customers share stories about Vermont’s thriving underground railroad of farm fresh foods. 6–8:30 p.m. Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., Montpelier. Admission by donation. 223-7222. [email protected]. ruralvermont.org.

Nov. 25Health Care Information Table. Peter Sterling, of the Vermont Campaign for Health Care Security, will help you find the right plan. 2–5 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. [email protected]. kellogghubbard.org. Event repeats on Nov. 26.

Forum on Decommissioning Vermont Yankee. With Deb Katz, of Citizens’ Awareness Network, and Chris Williams, of VT Citizens’ Action Network and Vermont Yankee Decommissioning Alliance. 6:30 p.m. Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., Montpelier. 476-3154.

Thanksgiving Flower Centerpiece Workshop. With Yana Poulson. Use autumn flowers and other natural materials to make an arrangement for Thanksgiving dinner. All supplies provided. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St. $35.

Monthly Book Group for Adults. Fourth Mon., 7 p.m. New members always welcome. City of Women by David Gillham. For copies of the book, stop by the library. Jaquith Public Library, 122 School St., Marshfield. 426-3581. [email protected]. marshfield.lib.vt.us.

NAMI Vermont Family Support Group. Support group for families and friends of individuals living with mental illness. Fourth Mon., 7 p.m. Central Vermont Medical Center, room 3, Berlin. 800-639-6480 or namivt.org.

MusicveNUeSBagitos. 28 Main St., Montpelier. 229-9212. bagitos.com.

Nov. 21: Rachel Sargent leads a nature-sketching session 5–7 p.m., fundraiser for North Branch Nature Center; Kara McGraw 7–8 p.m.Nov. 22: Art Herttua (jazz guitar) 6–8 p.m.Nov. 23: Irish session 2–5 p.m.; The Neptunes 6–8 p.m.Nov. 24: Brunch with Eric Friedman 11 a.m.–1 p.m.Nov. 26: The People’s Café: music, song, poetry, comedy and community sponsored by the Occupy Central Vermont group 6–8 p.m.Nov. 27: Kari Beth (singer-songwriter) 6–8 p.m.Nov. 30: James Kinne (contemporary folk singer-songwriter) 6–8 p.m.

Barre Opera House. 6 N. Main St., Barre. Tickets: 476-8188. barreoperahouse.org.

Nov. 30: Lúnasa and Karan Casey, Celtic music. 7:30 p.m. $18–$32.Dec. 4: Natalie MacMaster, award-winning Cape Breton fiddler. 7 p.m. $39–$58 adults; $20 students.Dec. 8: Handel’s Messiah, performed by Vermont Philharmonic Orchestra. 2 p.m. $15 adults; $12 seniors and students; $5 children under 12.Dec. 9: Christmas with Annie Moses Band, blend of fiddle, jazz and classical. 7 p.m. $15–$25.

Dec. 14: Green Mountain Youth Symphony Winter Concerts. GMYS repertory and concert orchestras: 3:30 p.m. Senior orchestra: 7:30 p.m. $5–$18.

Charlie-O’s. 70 Main St., Montpelier. 223-6820.

Nov. 21: Brave the Vertigo + DJ Crucible (metal)Nov. 22: Abby Jenne + Enablers w/ Artie Toulis (rock)Nov. 23: Dance partyNov. 27: Lava Moss (rock)Nov. 29: Pooloop+guest (indie)Nov. 30: Dance partyDec. 6: The Starline Rhythm Boys (honky-tonk/rockabilly) 9:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.

Nutty Steph’s Chocolaterie. Rte. 2, Middlesex. Bacon Thurs.: 6 p.m.–midnight. 229-2090. [email protected]. nuttystephs.com.

Nov. 21: Andric Severence.Dec. 5: Andric Severence.Dec. 12: Andric Severence.

Skinny Pancake. 89 Main Street, Montpelier. Wed., 6–8 p.m. Jay Ekis and extremely special guests. 262-2253. skinnypancake.com.

Nov. 24: Toussaint Negritude (jazz/spoken word)Dec. 8: Patrick Fitzsimmons (folk)

Sweet Melissa’s. 4 Langdon St., Montpelier. Free unless otherwise noted. 225-6012. facebook.com/sweetmelissasvt.

Nov. 21: Seth Eames and Miriam Bernardo 8 p.m.Nov. 22: Brian Gatch Band 9 p.m.; Honky Tonk Happy Hour with Mark LeGrand 5 p.m.

Nov. 23: Tennessee Jed Band 9 p.m.; Andy Pitt 5 p.m.Nov. 26: Open Mic Night 7 p.m.; Live Music 5 p.m.Nov. 27: Thanksgiving Jam 8 p.m.; Wine Down with D. Davis 5 p.m.Nov. 29: Abbey Jenne and the Enablers 9 p.m.; Honky Tonk Happy Hour with Mark LeGrand 5 p.m.Nov. 30: Michelle Sarah Band 9 p.m.; Blue Fox 5 p.m.

Whammy Bar. Maple Corner Store, 31 W. County Rd., Calais. 229-4329. whammybar1.com.

Nov 21: Poetry slam with Geof Hewitt 7 p.m.Nov 22: Sunrise Speakeasy 7:30 p.m.

ArtiStS & SpeciAl eveNtSDave Keller: CD Release Parties. For Memphis Soul CD. 229-2737. [email protected]. davekeller.com

Nov. 21: Tupelo Music Hall, 188 S. Main St., White River Junction. Doors 7p.m.; show 7:30 p.m. $8 advance; $10 day of show. 698-8341. tupelohallvermont.com.Dec. 6: River Arts, 74 Pleasant St., Morrisville. Soul food available for purchase at 6 p.m.; show at 7 p.m. $10. 888-1261. riverartsvt.

Nov. 22: Della Mae Concert. 8–10 p.m. Haybarn Theater, Goddard College, 123 Pitkin Rd., Plainfield. $15 advance; $20 door. 454-8311. goddard.edu.

Nov. 30: Waiting for the Light: Anima Benefit Concert. Anima, a small women’s choral group based in Montpelier, perform medieval works and other ancient repertoire, especially the

chants of Hildegard of Bingen. 7 p.m. Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., Montpelier. Suggested donation $15. 899-3478. animavermont.org.

Dec. 7: 35th Parallel MediterrAsian Jazz Ensemble. Combining the sounds of the Indian tabla and the Middle Eastern oud. 8 p.m. Haybarn Theater, Goddard College, 123 Pitkin Rd., Plainfield. $15 advance; $20 door. 454-8311. goddard.edu. 35thparallel.com. Dec. 7–8: Everything Will Be Alright! Montpelier Community Gospel Choir. Combining soul, jazz and original and traditional gospel music. 778-0881. vtgospel.com. facebook.com/vtgospel.

Dec. 7: 7 p.m. Universalist Church, 19 Church St., Barre. Donation. Dec. 8: 4 p.m. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. Donation.

Dec. 8: Mary Fran and Dale Stafford. Harp, recorder and vocal music. 9:30 a.m. Coffee served. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 223-2424; [email protected]; www.bethanychurchvt.org

Dec. 8: Randolph Singers Holiday Concert. Celtic songs, a children’s choir and the traditional carol sing-along. Reception for singers and audience follows in the Esther Mesh. 4 p.m. Chandler Music Hall, 71-73 Main St., Randolph. By donation. 728-6464.

Dec. 14: Mayfly. An old-time traditional duo featuring Katie Trautz and Julia Wayne. Optional potluck 5:30 p.m. Show 7 p.m. Adamant Community Club, 1161 Martin Rd., Adamant. $10 advance; $15 door.

continued on page 17

35th Parallel MediterrAsian Jazz Ensemble, performing at the Haybarn Theater, Goddard College, on December 7.


Visual Arts eXHiBitSOngoing: Storefront Gallery. Studio mates Glen Coburn Hutcheson, James Secor and Dustin Smith create new work in back, while gallery directors Abigail Feldman and Shamus Langlois shape upcoming exhibitions. 839-5349. facebook.com/storefrontstudiogallery.

Through Nov. 24: Nancy Dwyer and Steve Buddington, I Am Always Your Context. Collaborative installation of wallpaper and paintings by Dwyer and Budington. East Gallery, Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Hours: Wed.–Sun. noon–5 p.m. and by appointment. 253-8358.

Through Nov. 24: Puente: An Exhibition of Cuban Artists. Main Galleries, Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Hours: Wed.–Sun. noon–5 p.m. and by appointment. 253-8358.

Through Nov.: Missy C. Storrow, Interpretations. Watermedia paintings and monoprints. Coffee Corner Restaurant, 83 Main St., Montpelier. 279-6349carystorrowart.com.

Through Nov. 30: Aviary. Group show of bird carvings, paintings and other depictions of birds. Closing reception Nov. 30, 5 p.m. BigTown Gallery, 99 North Main St., Rochester. Hours: Wed.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. noon–5 p.m. 767-9670. [email protected]. bigtowngallery.com.facebook.com/#!/pages/Fans-of-Green-Bean-Visual-Arts-Gallery/176207625774864

Through Nov. 30: Patricia Lyon-Surrey, Season of Transition. Photographs. Drawing Board, 22 Main St., Montpelier. Hours: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Through Nov. 30: Linda Maney, Abstract Thinking. Watercolors and acrylics. First and second floors, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Main St., Montpelier.

Through Nov. 30: Steffany Alexis Yasus, Caras. Photographs, digital and 35 mm. Green Bean Visual Art Gallery, Capitol Grounds, Main St., Montpelier. [email protected]. .

Through Dec. 1: Benjamin Barnes, Recent Works. Paintings focus on the agricultural landscape: tractors, trucks, barns, and outbuildings. Tulsi Tea Room, 34 Elm St., Montpelier. Hours: Tues.–Sat., 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m. 223-0043.

Through Dec. 2: Doug Haley, It’s graffiti and more cross-processed! Photography.

Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio, 18 Langdon St., Montpelier. Hours: Mon.–Fri., 3:30–8 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 229-4676. cdandfs.com.

Through Dec. 7: Rural Revolution. An exhibition of 1970s-era photographs by Goddard art students and faculty. Closing reception Dec. 7, 6–7:30 p.m. Goddard College Martin Manor, Goddard College, Pitkin Rd., Plainfield.

Through Dec. 16: Small Works. Artwork by students, faculty, staff and alumni of Community College of Vermont. CCV, 660 Elm St., Montpelier.

Through Dec. 18: Celebrate. Annual holiday season show; wide variety of fine art and crafts created by SPA member artists. Hours: Tues.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. noon–4 p.m.

Through Dec. 20: Annie Tiberio Cameron, Robert Frost in Images. Montpelier photographer pairs photographs with poetry from Robert Frost. Reception Dec. 6, 4:30–8 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St. 223-2518. 223-2204. [email protected]. [email protected]. montpelier-vt.org/msac. anniecameronphotography.com.

Through Dec. 20: Round. An exhibition of objects of circular shape, from the Sullivan Museum collection. Sullivan Museum and History Center, Norwich University, 158 Harmon Dr., Northfield. 485-2183. Norwich.edu/museum.

Through Dec. 20: These Honored Dead: Private and National Commemoration. Stories of Norwich alumni from both sides of the Civil War conflict in 1863. Sullivan Museum & History Center, Norwich University, Northfield. 485-2183. norwich.edu/museum.

Through Dec. 27: Georgia Myer, Authenticity. Abstract oil, pastel, charcoal and watercolor. The gallery will be open for the Montpelier Art Walk, Oct. 4, 4–7 p.m. Governor’s Gallery, 5F, Pavilion Office, Montpelier. Hours: Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Through Dec. 27: Works by Jen Morris. Photography by Landmark College Art Professor Jen Morris. Reception Dec. 6, 5–7 p.m. Vermont Supreme Court, 111 State St., Montpelier. 828-0749. [email protected].

Through Dec. 29: White Stuff. Group member exhibit featuring the moods of snow. Plus holiday gifts: fine art, crafts, music and books. Blinking Light Gallery, 16 Main St., Plainfield. Hours: Thurs., 2–6 p.m.; Fri.–

Sun., 10 a.m.–6p.m. Expanded hours: Dec. 23, noon–8 p.m.; Dec. 24, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 454-0141. blinkinglightgallery.com. [email protected].

Through Dec. 29: Ceilidh Galloway-Kane, The People, The Places. Watercolor, pen and ink, and graphite. Reception Dec. 6, 4–7 p.m. Green Bean Visual Art Gallery, Capitol Grounds, Montpelier. [email protected].

Through Dec. 31: Lisa Forster Beach. Watercolors and acrylics. Festival Gallery, 2 Village Square, Waitsfield. next to the Tempest Book Store. Gallery Hours: Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sat. by appointment. 496-6682. vermontartfest.com.

Through Dec.: Winter Show: Juice Bar. Gallery members’ choices, featuring constructions by Richard E. Smith and Jessica Straus. Reception Dec. 7, 5–7 p.m. BigTown Gallery 99 North Main St., Rochester. 767-9670. bigtowngallery.com.

Through Jan. 2: Paul Gruhler. Abstract paintings. Gallery at River Arts, River Arts Center, 74 Pleasant St., 2F, Morrisville. Hours: Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 888-1261. riverartsvt.org.

Through Jan. 2: Chris Stearns, Vermont on Aluminum. Photographs of landscapes printed on sheets of aluminum. Gallery at River Arts, River Arts Center, 74 Pleasant St., 2F, Morrisville. Hours: Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 888-1261. riverartsvt.org.

Through Jan. 10: Janet Fredericks, Quiet Observations: Anthills, Insects & Water. Drawings and paintings about the seen and unseen life of the natural world. Central Vermont Medical Center Lobby Gallery, 130 Fisher Rd., Berlin. 371-4100.

Through Jan. 31: Buddhist Thangkas. Hand-painted Buddhist thangkas by artists from Nepal and India; fundraiser for Child Haven International, a nonprofit organization that operates homes for children in India, Nepal, China and Bangladesh. Reception Dec. 6, 4–6 p.m. Tulsi Tea Room, 34 Elm St., Montpelier. 223-0043.

SpeciAl eveNtSDec. 6: Art Walk at Artisans Hand. Celebrating ornaments: hand carved, blown, felted, painted, pressed, even hand-formed clay musical ornaments. 4–8 p.m. City Center, 89 Main St. 229-9492. [email protected]. artisanshand.com.

Dec. 6: Sarah Rosedahl. Original artwork on display and book signing for Rosedahl’s new book Chickens!, an illustrated look at chicken breeds from A–Z. 4–8 p.m. The Cheshire Cat, 28 Elm St., Montpelier. 223-1981. cheshirecatclothing.com. srosedahl.wordpress.com.

Dec. 6: Special Exhibit of Vermont’s Interstates. Come see these award-winning exhibits during Art Walk. 4–7 p.m. Vermont History Museum, 109 State St., Montpelier. 828-2180.

Ellen and Debbie. Photo by Jonathan Sharlin, Goddard student, 1969–1972. In Rural Revolution exhibit at Goddard College.

Performing ArtsDANceNov. 23: 11th Annual Vermont State Dance Festival. Professional-level dance workshops for a variety of styles and techniques in preparation for an evening performance open to the public. Begin at 8 a.m. Performance 7 p.m. Lyndon Institute Alumni Auditorium, Lyndon Institute, Lyndon Center. By donation. 626-1356. [email protected].

Nov. 24: Kyle Abraham Master Class Workshop. Abraham, dancer and choreographer, leads a technique class emphasizing exploration, musicality, abandonment and intuition. Intermediate–advanced dancers. Noon–2 p.m. Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio, 18 Langdon St., Montpelier. $18 or four punches. Preregistration required: 229-4676. cdandfs.com.

tHeAter, StorYtelliNG & coMeDYNov. 22: Stroke Yer Joke! Comedy open mic. Comics get 5 minutes; 15 comics maximum. Hosted by Sean Hunter Williams. Signups 7:30 p.m. Show 8 p.m. Espresso Bueno café, 248 N. Main St., Barre. seanhunterwilliams @gmail.com. www.espressobueno.com.

Nov. 22–23: In the Heights. The Sharon Academy presents their all-school production of 2008 Tony award–winning musical In the Heights. 7:30 p.m. Chandler Music Hall, 71-73 Main St., Randolph. Tickets: 318-2428. [email protected].

Nov. 24: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, Very Bad Day. Theatreworks USA presents a one-hour musical adaptation of the best-selling children’s book. Pre-K through grade 3. 10 a.m. Chandler Music Hall, 71-73 Main St., Randolph. $6. Tickets: 431-0204 or [email protected].

Nov. 30: The Three Little Pigs. Premier of new puppet show by No Strings Marionette. 11 a.m. Chandler Music Hall, 71-73 Main St., Randolph. $6. 728-6464. chandler-arts.org.

Dec. 4: Extempo. Tell a 5- to 7.5-minute, first-person, true story from your life. Sign up in advance and come prepared without notes. No theme. 8 p.m. Nutty Steph’s, 961C Rte. 2, Middlesex. $5. 229-2090. [email protected].

Dec. 4–5: It’s a Wonderful Life! Live radio play by Joe Landry, with five actors. Presented by Lost Nation Theater. 7 p.m. Montpelier City Hall Arts Center, 39 Main St., Montpelier. $10 advance; $15 door; children under 11 free. 229-0492. [email protected]. lostnationtheater.org.

Dec. 7: Making Scenes: Gay Survivors of Straight Parents. Regional acting ensemble performs selections from Torch Song Trilogy, Kissing Jessica Stein, The Sum of Us and Angels in America. Songs from Falsettos, directed by Steve Swayne. Proceeds benefit two organizations working with LGBT Vermonters. Chandler Music Hall, 71-73 Main St., Randolph. $20 adults; $10 students.728-6464. chandler-arts.org.

Dec. 13: Laugh Local VT Open Mic Comedy Night. Jokesters take advantage of a lighthearted atmosphere and perform brief material before a live audience. Signups 7:30 pm. Show 8 p.m. American Legion Post 3, 21 Main St., Montpelier. Free, but dough nation$ welcome. 793-3884.

SpeciAl eveNtSDec. 9–10: Lost Nation Theater Auditions for 2014 Season. Including: Our Town; Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike; Blues in the Night; 39 Steps; and Comedy of Errors. Age 10 and up. By appointment: 5:30–8 p.m. Montpelier City Hall Arts Center, 39 Main St., Montpelier. Appointment and information: 229-0492. [email protected]. lostnationtheater.org.

Harry Falls through the ice in Lost Nation Theater’s 2012 production of It’s a Won-derful Life. Kim Bent, Maura O’Brien, Cher Laston and Michael Manion. Photo courtesy of Jerome Lipani.


Nov. 26American Red Cross Blood Drive. Noon–5 p.m. Red Cross Bus, Capitol Plaza Hotel, 100 State St., Montpelier. Walk-in or make an appointment: 800-RED CROSS or redcrossblood.org.

Health Care Information Table. Peter Sterling, of the Vermont Campaign for Health Care Security, will help you find the right plan. 2–5 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. [email protected]. kellogghubbard.org.

Medicare and You. Free workshops for those new to Medicare. Second and fourth Tues., 3–4:30 p.m. Central Vermont Council on Aging, 59 N. Main St., Suite 200, Barre. Free. Registration: 479-0531.

Tech Tuesdays. Get help with any computer or Internet questions, or learn about the library’s new circulation software and how to use ListenUp to download audiobooks and more. Bring your iPod, tablet, phone, laptop or other device. Second and fourth Tues., 5:30–6:30 p.m. Through Dec. 8. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 223-3338 or kellogghubbard.org.

Business Wisdom Circle. Monthly networking and peer mentoring open to all women business owners. Facilitated by Vermont Women’s Business Center. Light refreshments. 4:30–6:30 p.m. CVCAC Campus, 20 Gable Pl., Barre. Nominal fee. 479-9813. [email protected]. vwbc.org.

Nov. 28Barre Community Thanksgiving. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Masonic Temple, 2 Academy St., Barre. facebook.com/events/328815307226419.

41st Annual Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Delivery service available to those home bound. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. Volunteers and donations needed. For deliveries, donations and volunteering, call: 229-9151.

Alice’s Restaurant Thanksgiving Meal for All. 6–10 p.m. Charlie-O’s, 70 Main St., Montpelier. 223-6820.

Nov. 29Flannel Friday. Wear your pajamas and score awesome deals! Montpelier’s down-home version of Black Friday with your local, independent retailers. Horse-drawn wagon rides 11–3 p.m. Tree lighting 4 p.m. Downtown Montpelier.

Special Storytime with Tracey Campbell Pearson. Jericho author Pearson reads her new picture book Elephant’s Story. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Children’s Room, Bear Pond Books, 77 Main St., Montpelier. 229-0774. [email protected]. bearpondbooks.com.

Elizabeth W. Robechek’s Handmade Books. Meet Robechek and see her sculptural books. Original handmade books on display; printed versions for sale. 4–6 p.m. North Branch Café, 41 State St., Montpelier. 552-8105.

Nov. 30Small Business Saturday. Montpelier’s boutiques and restaurants offer great one-day deals to celebrate the strength of buying local. All day. Downtown Montpelier.

Local Authors Work the Stacks. Authors Sarah Stewart Taylor, Howard Norman, Linda Urban, Jennifer McMahon, Thom Greene, Howard Frank Mosher and Leda Schubert sell their favorite books. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Bear Pond Books, 77 Main St., Montpelier. 229-0774. bearpondbooks.com.

Contra Dance. All dances taught; no partner necessary. All ages welcome. Bring shoes not worn outdoors. First, third and fifth Sat., 8–11 p.m. Capital City Grange, 6612 Rte. 12, Berlin. $8. 744-6163. capitalcitygrange.org.

Dec. 1American Legion Bingo. Monthly game at Post 59 Auxiliary. Door opens 11 a.m. Quickies at noon; regular game 1 p.m. Lunch available. 16 Stowe St., Waterbury. 244-8404.

Nature’s Mysteries Holiday Wellness Fair. Therapeutic energy work, tarot readings,

massage, chakra cleansing and more. On sale: essential oils, angel drawings, crystals and more. Door prizes, raffle, refreshments. noon–5 p.m. Waitsfield School, 3951 Main St., Waitsfield. 525-8842. facebook.com/events/1435117290042101.

Feldenkrais: Lengthening the Hamstrings. With Uwe Mester. Learn how to comfortably lengthen your hamstrings so the muscle retains its length. 1:30–3:30 p.m. Yoga Mountain Center, 7 Main St., Montpelier. $30. Registration: 735-3770 or [email protected].

Dec. 2Signup for Toys for Tots. Sign up for toys, clothes and gift cards, to be distributed on Dec. 20. For families living in Washington County. Sign up at Salvation Army, 25 Keith Ave., Barre. 476-5301. 522-5990. [email protected]. vttoysfortots.com.

Parent Meet-Up. Come meet other parents, share information and chat over light snacks, coffee and tea. First Mon., 10–11:30 a.m. Hayes Room, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. Free. [email protected].

Herbal Care for Trauma and PTSD. With Elliot Lloyd, VCIH clinical intern. Herbs, dietary changes and alternative therapies that support moving through acute and long-term trauma are discussed. Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, 252 Main St., Montpelier. $10 members; $12 nonmembers. Preregistration required: 224-7100. [email protected]. vtherbcenter.org.

Classic Book Club. First Mon., 6–8 p.m. Cutler Memorial Library, 151 High St. (Rte. 2), Plainfield. Free. 454-8504.

Dec. 3#GivingTuesday. Join Vermont College of Fine Arts and participate in this national day of giving to begin the holiday season. Make a donation to VCFA or your favorite community organization. All day. [email protected]. givingtuesday.org. vcfa.edu.

Lunch with John Hollar and Sue Aldrich. Have lunch with Mayor John Hollar and school board chair Sue Aldrich and discuss upcoming challenges for the city and schools. 1 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St.

Beating the Sugar Blues. With Marie Frohlich, health coach. Learn about the highs and lows of sugar intake and how to enjoy sweets without the blues. Tastes, tea, recipes and handouts provided. 6–7 p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop community room. $10 member-owners; $12 nonmembers. Preregister: 223-8000 x202. [email protected].

Eyes on the Prize for Universal Health Care. Vermont Workers Center dialogue on how Vermont can stay on track toward a statewide universal health care system. 6–8 p.m. Church of the Good Shepherd, 39 Washington St., Barre. Free.461-7865. [email protected]. workerscenter.org.

Women’s Circle. Women and mothers discuss motherhood, family life and women’s health. Hosted by midwives Chelsea Hastings and Hannah Allen. First Tues., 6–8 p.m. Emerge Midwifery and Family Health, 174 River St., Montpelier.

ADA Advisory Committee Meeting. First Tues. City manager’s conference room, City Hall, 39 Main St., Montpelier. 223-9502.

Dec. 4Am I Really That Busy? Obstacles and Antidotes to Meditation Practice. A talk by shambhala teacher Mark Bowen. Learn from obstacles and apply antidotes to deepen your meditation practice. Meditation 6 p.m. Talk 7:15 p.m. Montpelier Shambhala Center, 64 Main St., 3F, Montpelier. [email protected].

Cancer Support Group. First Wed., 6 p.m. Potluck. For location, call Carole Mac-Intyre 229-5931.

Dec. 5MBAC Meeting. Meeting of the Montpelier Bicycle Advisory Committee. First Thurs., 8 a.m. Police Station Community Room, 534 Washington St., Montpelier. 262-6273.

State House Tree Lighting. Join Governor Peter Shumlin in the annual lighting of the tree at the

State House. Everyone invited inside for refreshments around the Victorian tree. Tree lighting 4:30 p.m. Kurn Hattin choir performs 5 p.m.

Communication Is the Key to Business Success. With Dona Bate of dbate speaking (dbatespeaking.com). Learn five techniques for effective networking. Improve relationships with customers, vendors and community members. 6–8:30 p.m. 20 Gable Pl., Barre. Free. Registration and information: 477-5214. 800-839-1053. [email protected].

Diabetes Support Group. First Thurs., 7–8 p.m. Conference room 3, Central Vermont Medical Center. 371-4152.

Ecumenical Group. Songs of praise, Bible teaching, fellowship. First and third Thurs., 7–9 p.m. Jabbok Center for Christian Living, 8 Daniel Dr., Barre. Free. 479-0302.

Dec. 6Hike Elmore Mountain. With Green Mountain club. Moderate. 3.5+/- miles. Elmore loop trail. Contact Kathy Gohl or John Buddington, 229-0725, for meeting time and place.

Tiny House Open House. Visit 300-square-foot microhome designed and built by Yestermorrow students with locally sourced and recycled materials. 4–6 p.m. 33 College St., Montpelier. 496-5545. yestermorrow.org/events.

Illumination Night at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Carillon concert, holiday carols with the Barretones. Refreshments in College Hall Gallery. 5:30 p.m. VCFA, 36 College St., Montpelier. Free. 828-8589. [email protected]. www.vcfa.edu.

Art from the Earth: Annual Fundraiser for VCIH. Gifts for sale: local art, massage certificates, herbal extracts, hand-knitted items. Bid on silent auction items. 7–9 p.m. Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, 252 Main St., Montpelier. $5. 224-7100. vtherbcenter.org. [email protected].

Body Image: Loving Our Bodies and Ourselves. A sacred, safe and confidential discussion group for women exploring all aspects of sexuality. 7–9 p.m. Inner Sea Healing Arts, 56 East State St., Montpelier. By donation. 498-3510.

Coffeehouse. Enjoy live music and share your own. Fellowship, potluck snacks and beverages. First Fri., 7–9 p.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, 137 Main St., Montpelier (park and enter at rear). Free. 244-5191, 472-8297 or [email protected].

Dec. 7Living with Alzheimer’s: Late-Stage Care Givers. Information on late-stage care from care givers and professionals. 9 a.m.–noon. Central Vermont Medical Center, conference rm. 1, 130 Fishers Rd., Berlin. Free. Registration recommended: 800-272-3900. Information: 800-272-3900. [email protected].

Sweet Winter Rest and Renewal. A Restorative Yoga Day Retreat with Anjali Budreski. 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Dharma Door Retreat, Underhill. $90. Preregister: 223-5302. yogamountaincenter.com.

Holiday Story and Craft Time. Holiday-themed stories, songs and crafts during Waterbury’s Holiday Stroll. Grades K–4. 10 a.m. Waterbury Public Library Registration: 244-7036.

First Indoor Capital City Farmers Market. Thirty-five farmers, food producers and craftspeople. Music by Kick em Jenny. Cooking demo of potato latkes. 10 a.m.–2p.m. Vermont College of Fine Arts gym. 223-2958. [email protected]. montpelierfarmersmarket.com.

Family Downtown Day, Montpelier. Cookie decorating with the chefs of NECI at 11 a.m. Horse-drawn wagon rides 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. Santa’s arrives shortly thereafter at City Center. Sponsored by Montpelier Alive. 223-9604.

A Community of Abundance: ORE Dinner and Fundraiser. Dine while listening to the music of Michael Arnowitt. Dinner by chefs Susan Reid and Mary Roehm. Culmination of silent auction/fundraiser for ORE. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. $20–$50 sliding scale. $10 children. Reservations recommended: 552-3040. [email protected].

Evening to Honor Author Archer Mayor. Live music, auctions, photography sale, 50/50 raffle. Hors d’oeuvres, wine served. Mayor’s newest book, Three Can Keep a Secret, on sale. 7 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. $60. Proceeds benefit library. 223-3338 x 311. [email protected].

Calais Holiday Market. Food and arts and crafts. 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Maple Corner Community Center, 64 W. County Rd., Calais. [email protected].

Contra Dance. All dances taught; no partner necessary. All ages welcome. Bring shoes not worn outdoors. First, third and fifth Sat., 8–11 p.m. Capital City Grange, 6612 Rte. 12, Berlin. $8. 744-6163. capitalcitygrange.org.

National Federation of the Blind, Montpelier Chapter. First Sat. Lane Shops community room, 1 Mechanic St., Montpelier. 229-0093.

Dec. 7–8Country Christmas and Holiday Paint-In. Shopping discounts, prizes. Painters in stores capturing the festive air. During regular store hours. Downtown Waitsfield and Warren. 496-3409. [email protected]. madrivervalley.com/events.

Floating Bridge Food & Farms Cooperative Holiday Market. Shop for local farm-inspired holiday gifts, goodies and more, followed by tree cutting at L H Stowell & Son Christmas Tree Farm. Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Dec. 8, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. The Fork Shop, 2205 Rte. 65, Pond Village, Brookfield. 276-0787. [email protected]. FloatingBridgeFoodandFarms.com.

Dec. 8Snowshoe Woodstock. With Green Mountain Club. Moderate. 7.6 miles. Snowshoe or hike to Winturi Shelter via the Appalachian Trail. Bring lunch and water. Meet at Montpelier High School. Contact Michael Chernick, 249-0520 or [email protected], for meeting time.

Shape Note/Sacred Harp Sing. No experience needed. All welcome. Second Sun., 5–7 p.m. Plainfield Community Center (above the co-op). By donation. 595 9951 or [email protected].

Compassionate Friends’ 17th Worldwide Candle Lighting. In remembrance of children who have passed. Readings, musical performances. Light refreshments. 6:45 p.m. Christ Church, 2F (no elevator), 64 State St., Montpelier. Free, donations accepted. 793-4276. [email protected].

Dec. 10Walk Calais. With Green Mountain Club. Easy–moderate. 5+/- miles. Scenic loop in the Robinson Cemetery–Maple Corner neighborhood. Bring water and snack. Meet behind the Department of Labor, by the Montpelier bike path. Contact Reidun and Andrew Nuquist, 223-3550, for meeting time.

Medicare and You. Free workshops for those new to Medicare. Second and fourth Tues., 3–4:30 p.m. Central Vermont Council on Aging, 59 N. Main St., Suite 200, Barre. Free. Registration: 479-0531.

Dec. 11Quilting Group. Working meeting of the Dog River Quilters. Second Wed., 5:30 p.m. Community room, Brown Public Library, Northfield. Jean, 585-5078 or [email protected].

Bereaved Parents Support Group. Facilitated by CVHHH. Second Wed., 6–8 p.m. CVHHH, 600 Granger Rd., Berlin. Jeneane Lunn 793-2376.

Celiac and Food Allergy Support Group. With Lisa Masé of Harmonized Cookery. Second Wed., 4:30–6 p.m. Conference room 3, Central Vermont Medical Center. [email protected].

Dec. 12Ecumenical Group. Songs of praise, Bible teaching, fellowship. Second and fourth Thurs., 7–9 p.m. Jabbok Center for Christian Living, 8 Daniel Dr., Barre. Free. 479-0302.

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Weekly EventsArt & crAftBeaders’ Group. All levels of beading experience welcome. Free instruction available. Come with a project for creativity and community. Sat., 11 a.m.–2 p.m. The Bead Hive, Plainfield. 454-1615.

Noontime Knitters. All abilities welcome. Basics taught. Crocheting, needlepoint and tatting also welcome. Tues., noon–1 p.m. Waterbury Public Library, 28 N. Main St., Waterbury. 244-7036.

Life Drawing Sessions. Usually brief, dynamic poses. Wed., 7–9 p.m. Storefront Studio/Gallery, 6 Barre St., Montpelier. $15 suggested donation. 839-5349. [email protected].

BicycliNgOpen Shop Nights. Volunteer-run community bike shop: bike donations and repairs. Tues., 6–8 p.m.; other nights. Freeride Montpelier, 89 Barre St., Montpelier. By donation. 552-3521. freeridemontpelier.org.

Books & WorDsEnglish Conversation Practice Group. For students learning English for the first time. Tues., 4–5 p.m. Central Vermont Adult Basic Education, Montpelier Learning Center, 100 State St. 223-3403.

Lunch in a Foreign Language. Bring lunch and practice your language skills with neighbors. Noon–1 p.m. Mon. Hebrew, Tues. Italian, Wed. Spanish, Thurs. French. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-3338.

Ongoing Reading Group. Improve your reading and share some good books. Books chosen by group. Thurs., 9–10 a.m. Central Vermont Adult Basic Education, Montpelier Learning Center, 100 State St. 223-3403.

BusiNess & fiNANce, computersPersonal Financial Management Workshops. Learn about credit/debit cards, credit building and repair, budgeting and identity theft, insurance, investing, retirement. Tues., 6–8 p.m. Central Vermont Medical Center, Conference Room 3. Registration: 371-4191.

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.

DANceEcstatic Dance. Dance your heart awake. No experience necessary. Every Fri., 7–9 p.m., Christ Church, State St., Montpelier. First and third Wed., 7–9 p.m., Worcester Town Hall, corner of Elmore and Calais roads. Second and fourth Wed., 7–9 p.m., Plainfield Community Center (above the co-op). $10. 505-8011. [email protected].

Dance or Play with the Swinging’ over 60 Band. Danceable tunes from the 1930s to the 1960s. Recruiting musicians. Tues., 5:30–7:30 p.m., Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. 223-2518.

fooD Barre Farmers’ Market. Local produce, meats, poultry , eggs, honey, crafts, baked goods and more. Wed., 3–6:30 p.m. City Hall Park, Barre.

Community Meals in Montpelier. All welcome. Free.

Mon.: Unitarian Church, 130 Main St., 11 a.m.–1 p.m.Tues.: Bethany Church, 115 Main St., 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.Wed.: Christ Church, 64 State St., 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.Thurs.: Trinity Church, 137 Main St., 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.Fri.: St. Augustine Church, 18 Barre St., 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.Sun.: Last Sunday only, Bethany Church, 115

Main St. (hosted by Beth Jacob Synagogue), 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Noon Cafe. Soup, fresh bread, good company and lively conversation. Wed., noon. The Old Meeting House, 1620 Center Rd., E. Montpelier. By donation. oldmeetinghouse.org.

Senior Meals. For people 60 and over. Meals prepared by Chef Justin and volunteers. Tues. and Fri., noon–1 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. Free. Under 60: $6. Reservations and information: 262-2688.

Takeout and Café Meals. Proceeds benefit the senior meals program. Thurs., 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. $4–$8. Reservations appreciated: 262-6288.

HeAltH & WellNessSex Addicts Anonymous. Mon., 6:30 p.m. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. Call 552-3483 for more information or to leave a confidential message.

Herbal Clinics. Student clinic: Mon., 1–5 p.m. and Tues., 4–8 p.m. $0–$10. Professional clinic: Tues.–Fri. $0–$100. Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, 252 Main St., Montpelier. Consultations by appointment only: 224-7100 or [email protected]. vtherbcenter.org.

Affordable Acupuncture. Acupuncture sessions with Chris Hollis and Trish Mitchell. Mon. and Wed., 2–7 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 79 Main St., suite 8 (above Coffee Corner), Montpelier. $15–$40 sliding scale. Walk in or schedule an appointment at montpeliercommunityacupuncture.com.

Overeaters Anonymous. Tues., 5:30–6:30 p.m. Church of the Good Shepherd, Barre. 249-0414.

HIV Testing. Vermont CARES offers fast oral testing. Thurs., 2–5 p.m. 58 East State St., suite 3 (entrance at back), Montpelier. Free. 371-6222. vtcares.org.

kiDs & teeNsMad River Valley Youth Group. Sun., 7–9 p.m. Meets at various area churches. Call 497-4516 for location and information.

The Basement Teen Center. Cable TV, PlayStation 3, pool table, free eats and fun events for teenagers. Mon.–Thurs., 3–6 p.m.; Fri., 3–11 p.m. Basement Teen Center, 39 Main St., Montpelier. 229-9151.

Story Time at the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Stories, songs and special guests. Birth to age 5. Tues. and Fri., 10:30 a.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. kellogghubbard.org.

Story Times at the Waterbury Public Library. Baby/toddler story time: Mon., 10 a.m. Preschool story time: Fri., 10 a.m. Waterbury Public Library, 28 N. Main St., Waterbury. 244-7036. waterburypubliclibrary.com.

Forest Preschool. Outdoor, exploratory, play-based drop-off program for children age 3.5–5. Through Nov. 21. Tues. and Thurs., 9 a.m.–12 p.m. North Branch Nature Center, 713 Elm St., Montpelier. $420 for one day, $800 for both days. 229-6206.

Story Time at the Jaquith Public Library. With Sylvia Smith, followed by play group with Melissa Seifert. Birth to age 6. Wed. 10–11:30 a.m. Jaquith Public Library, 122 School St., Marshfield. 426-3581.

Lego Building Club. With Mike Maloney. Through Dec. 4 (not meeting Nov. 27). Wed., 3–4 p.m. Waterbury Public Library, 28 N. Main St., Waterbury. Registration required: 244-7036.

Read to Coco. Share a story with Coco, the resident licensed reading therapy dog, who loves to hear kids practice reading aloud. Wed., 3:30–4:30 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. Sign up ahead: 223-4665 at the children’s desk. kellogghubbard.org.

The Dark Knight Comics Club. With cofacilitators Ben T. Matchstick and Ash Brittenham. Comic book enthusiasts and artists draw, write and collaborate on their own comics. Age 7–17. Through Nov. 20. Wed., 3:30–5 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. kellogghubbard.org.

Vermont History for Homeschoolers. The Vermont Historical Society offers educational sessions for homeschoolers, age 8–12, in Montpelier and Barre. Wed. and Thurs., 1–3 p.m. Vermont History Museum, 109 State St., Montpelier, and Vermont History Center, 60 Washington St., Barre. $5 per child; $4 per child for three or more participating children or VHS members. Preregistration required: 828-1413. For schedule go to vermonthistory.org/homeschoolers.

North Branch Trekkers. After-school program with teacher-naturalist Ken Benton. Explore the green spaces of Montpelier while practicing outdoor living skills, tracking and wildlife monitoring. Grades 4–7. Through Dec. 5. Thurs., 3–5:30 p.m. North Branch Nature Center, 713 Elm St., Montpelier. $375, membership included. 229-6206.

Drop-in Kinder Arts Program. Innovative exploratory arts program with artist/instructor Kelly Holt. Age 3–5. Fri., 10:30 a.m.–noon. Starts Sept. 27. River Arts Center, 74 Pleasant St., Morrisville. 888-1261. RiverArtsVT.org.

Write On! Are you full of ideas? Looking to spin a story? Willing to play with words? Drop in once or join us for the series. Age 6–10. Fri., 3:30–4 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-4665. kellogghubbard.org.

Forest School. Drop-off program for students, using seasonal and emerging curriculum. Age 6–8. Through June 6, 2014. Fri., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. North Branch Nature Center, 713 Elm St., Montpelier. $1,560 members; payment plans available. 229-6206.

musicBarre-Tones Women’s Chorus. Open rehearsal. Find your voice with 50 other women. Mon., 7 p.m. Alumni Hall, Barre. 223-2039. BarretonesVT.com.

Community Drum Circle. Open drumming. All welcome. Fri., 7–9 p.m. Parish House, Unitarian Universalist Church, Main and Church streets, Barre. 503-724-7301.

Monteverdi Young Singers Chorus Rehearsal. New chorus members welcome. Wed., 4–5 p.m. Montpelier. Call 229-9000 for location and more information.

Ukelele Group. All levels welcome. Thurs., 6–8 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St. 223-2518.

recycliNgFree Food Scrap Collection. Compost your food waste along with your regular trash and recycling. Wed., 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sat. 6 a.m.–1 p.m. DJ’s Convenience Store, 56 River St., Montpelier. cvswmd.org.

soliDArity/iDeNtityWomen’s Group. Women age 40 and older explore important issues and challenges in their lives in a warm and supportive environment. Faciliatated by Amy Emler-Shaffer and Julia W. Gresser. Wed. evenings. 41 Elm St., Montpelier. Call Julia, 262-6110, for more information.

Men’s Group. Men discuss challenges of and insights about being male. Wed., 6:15–8:15 p.m. 174 Elm St., Montpelier. Interview required: contact Neil 223-3753.

spirituAlityChristian Science. God’s love meeting human needs. Reading room: Tues.–Sat., 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; Tues., 5–8 p.m.; Wed., 5–7:15 p.m. Testimony meeting: Wed., 7:30–8:30 p.m., nursery available. Worship service: Sun., 10:30–11:30 a.m., Sunday school and nursery available. 145 State St., Montpelier. 223-2477.

Shambhala Buddhist Meditation. Group meditation practice. Sun., 10 a.m.–noon; Tues., 7–8 p.m.; Wed., 6–7 p.m. Shambhala Meditation Center, 64 Main St., 3F, Montpelier. Free. 223-5137. montpeliershambala.org.

Deepening Our Jewish Roots. Fun, engaging text study and discussion on Jewish spirituality. Sun., 4:45–6:15 p.m. Yearning for Learning Center, Montpelier. 223-0583. [email protected].

Christian Meditation Group. People of all faiths welcome. Mon., noon–1 p.m. Christ Church, Montpelier. 223-6043.

Zen Meditation. With Zen Affiliate of Vermont. Wed., 6:30–7:30 p.m. 174 River St., Montpelier. Free. Call for orientation: 229-0164.

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.

Introduction to the Eastern Orthodox Church. A series of talks and discussions. Throuhg Dec. 1. Sun., 12:15–1 p.m. St. Jacob of Alaska Orthodox Church, 376 Rte. 12, Northfield. Free. 754-6206. [email protected].

sports & gAmesCoed Adult Floor Hockey League. Women and men welcome. Equipment provided. Through Dec. 8. Sun., 3–6 p.m. Montpelier Recreaction Center, Barre St. $58 for 10-week season. Preregisteration required: [email protected] or vermontfloorhockey.com.

Apollo Duplicate Bridge Club. All welcome. Partners sometimes available. Fri., 6:45 p.m. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. $3. 485-8990 or 223-3922.

Roller Derby Open Recruitment and Recreational Practice. Central Vermont’s Wrecking Doll Society invites quad skaters age 18 and up. No experience necessary. Equipment provided: first come, first served. Sat., 5–6:30 p.m. Montpelier Recreation Center, Barre St.. First skate free. centralvermontrollerderby.com.

yogAYoga with Lydia. Build strength and flexibility as you learn safe alignment in a nourishing, supportive and inspiring environment. Drop-ins welcome. Mon. 5:30 p.m., River House Yoga, Plainfield (sliding scale). Wed., 4:30 p.m. Green Mountain Girls Farm, Northfield (sliding scale). Tues. and Fri., noon. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier. 229-6300. saprema-yoga.com.

ABSolute Transformation: Yoga for Core Strength Series. With Lori Flower. Through Nov. 22. Fri., 10:45 a.m.–noon. Yoga Mountain Center, 7 Main St., 2F, Montpelier. $84. Register: 223-5302 or yogamountaincenter.com.

Community Yoga. All levels welcome to this community-focused practice. Fri., 5–6 p.m. Yoga Mountain Center, 7 Main St., 2F, Montpelier. By donation. 223-5302 or yogamountaincenter.com.

Photo by Annie Tiberio Cameron. Paired with the Robert Frost poem, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” On display at the Montpelier Senior Activity Center.


Class listings and classifieds are 50 words for $25; discounts available. To place an ad, call Carolyn, 223-5112, ext. 11.

Tell them you saw it in The Bridge!ClassifiedsservicesArtist, musiciAN stuDios Solo or to share starting at $150 monthly. Larger spaces of vari-ous sizes available full-time or time-shared. Join us as we transform a historic convent and school at 46 Barre Street, Montpelier, into a unique cen-ter for the arts, music and learning. Call Paul for a tour at 802-223-2120 or 802-461-6222.

first cHurcH of cHrist scieNtist, moNtpelier at 145 State Street will be hold-ing their annual Thanksgiving Day Service from 10:30-11:30AM on Thursday November 28th. The Christian Science church celebrates the love of this special day with a service of gratitude and inspiration. Please join us on Thanksgiving Day. 802-223-2477.

clAsses AND WorksHopsWritiNg coAcH. Struggling with beginning, continuing, finishing? Need tools to start you up and keep you working from concept to comple-tion? Art is long, and life short. WRITE NOW is what we have. Thirty years working in film, TV, theater and prose, coaching writers in all genres. Free initial consultation. [email protected] 802-225-6415.

for reNt floriDA reNtAl: Unique property - 35’ camper in central Florida in small quiet, marina on undeveloped Lake Harris w/boat rentals, swimming pool. Lake front lot w/own dock, ex-cellent fishing. Conveniently located to Disney, airports, Ocala forest. Must appreciate closeness to nature. Adults only (1-2), no smoking. Part-nership in property available. (802) 229-9630.

(802) 595-2551 • Servicing Montpelier, Barre, and Calais

Greg’s Domestic ServicesA personalized home cleaning service

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Green Mountain Transit Agency Now accepting applications for Seasonal Drivers in Stowe and SugarbushGMTA is looking for part-time bus drivers with excellent customer service skills, great driving record and a positive team attitude to join our team of seasonal drivers. Seasonal Drivers provide transportation for the Stowe and Sugarbush ski resorts. A Commercial Driver License (CDL) with passenger and air brake endorse-ments, clean driving record, and the ability to pass a background checks are also required. GMTA is willing to train the right candidates for their CDL. Several positions are available mid-December through early April, up to 40hrs/week. Weekend availability is required. Hourly rate: $15.85 and free seasonal ski passes are available based on eligibility. To apply for this position, please download an application from gmtaride.org. Submit the application, along with a cover letter and resume; in one of the following ways (no phone calls please): via email to: [email protected], via fax to: (802)864-5564, or via mail to: GMTA, 15 Industrial Parkway, Burlington, VT, 05401

Attn: Human Resources

GMTA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse workforce.

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T&T RepeatsThrift Store116 Main Street, Montpelier • 224.1360

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Since 1972Repairs • New floors and walls Crane work • Decorative concrete Consulting • ICF foundations

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by Barbara Dall

The first year my neighbor Jody and I canned applesauce together, we canned big. After work one after-

noon, we picked apples for an hour. First picked were the apples an arm’s length away, then out came the ladder. Easy, fun, satisfy-ing picking. How could we let any of those apples go to waste, languishing on high tree limbs, where even the deer couldn’t reach? We washed, cored and chopped at least that long, chucking handfuls of apple quarters into an already bubbling sauce pot. Almost there, we thought! We joked and laughed over tea while the sauce cooked, and barely noticed the sun going down.

One pot we cooked up pure, unadulter-

ated applesauce; the other we sprinkled in cinnamon and a bit of sugar. Wide-mouth pint jars waited on the counter. But wait. What about the peels? Ah, so that’s what the food mill is for. I hadn’t known about this part, having only canned and pickled beets, tomatoes and peaches in a previ-ous life. So we began the task—well, the chore—of straining the large, hot—very hot—pots of sauce. Slow going. We drank more tea, while taking turns at the strainer. We were still enthusiastic, but with less awe and more determination.

Finally, the sauce was ready for the clean jars and lids prepared for their impor-tant job. For the safe-food processing that home canning requires, we had consulted the Joy of Cooking and Andrea Chesman’s Pickled Pantry. Jody had read the recipes through—the first step for any cook in the know—and so the pot of almost boiling water stood ready for filled jars, as did the extra boiling water in a kettle. Except for one thing. The canning pot held only six jars. Only six. And we had pints, not quarts, which meant, well, we were far from done.

Picture the next couple of hours: fill hot cleaned jars with scrumptious, scorching applesauce; remove air bubbles in the jar with a wooden chopstick; wipe the mouths of the jars with a clean cotton dishtowel;

cover top of sauce with a teaspoon of lemon juice; place lids and rings; hand-tighten rings; loosen rings just a little bit; use the bottle grip to lower jars into the hot bath and cover with at least two inches of boil-ing water from the kettle, if needed. Wait forever for water to reboil; wait for jars to process. Remove jars with grip when 10 minutes processing time is done. Place jars with space between them on a flat, cush-ioned surface to cool, untouched, for 12 to 24 hours.

Repeat the routine. Wait. Repeat, wait—with the wait time stretching the limits of our positive feeling toward this project, though not yet each other. Our tired bodies waited, urging the last pot to hurry up and boil. And then, finally, amid the smell of cooked apples and spices and the stickiness of apple juice and blobs of runaway sauce on the floor and sink ledge, we were done.

We placed the final jars to cool and set not long before the clock struck midnight. Jody would need to cook and eat with lim-ited counter space for a day. She said she didn’t mind. We were more than exhausted and dumbstruck with the amount of time and effort an “easy” homesteading food task took, but also satisfied with the five-by-four rows of canned applesauce jars wait-ing for holiday meals, cross-country skiing

snacks and springtime breakfast muffins.Did the end product live up to our

dreams? Yes! Jody and I created yummy applesauce. Was the canning worth the en-ergy expended? That depends on your point of view. I want to do something on my own to physically sustain myself—preserve a backyard harvest for winter enjoyment, sew an outfit for a special occasion, construct a shelter to keep out a passing rain, build a shelf for books or rekindle a fire from last night’s embers. Taking fruit from tree to sauce to jar to table gives me the awareness of the natural processes of life—the time all living things take to mature, to ripen, to be-come useful, to taste luscious, to be whole.

Throughout the coming winter and spring, each time a new jar surfaces for a meal filled with the taste of the fall, the applesauce will remind me of what this food cost in time and spirit. Alongside the eating comes the knowledge that this jar, and any of the limited number still on the shelf, is a hard-won prize. As I wait for all of life to unfold, I can savor even my impatience, fed-upedness and boredom. I’m privileged to have abundance at my doorstep. I can ap-preciate each moment and say thank you to the earth, my neighbor, myself. I’m a better person for making applesauce. How simple and odd—but true—that sounds.

Making Applesauce

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Statements on Gwen Hallsmith,

Planning and Development

Director The Bridge received the following Novem-ber 6 statements by City Manager William Fraser and Mayor John Hollar.

StatementNovember 6, 2013 Mayor John Hollar

The city manager has informed me, along with the rest of City Council, of his

decision to place the planning and develop-ment director on paid administrative leave. Contrary to public allegations, I have had very little to do with this matter other than being kept abreast of the status. I have full confidence in the city manager and will sup-port his decision regardless of his final de-termination. Neither I nor other members of City Council will have any further comment until after that decision is made.

StatementNovember 6, 2013 William J. Fraser, City Manager

Montpelier city manager William Fraser placed the city’s planning and develop-

ment director, Gwendolyn Hallsmith, on paid administrative leave, effective Novem-ber 6. Hallsmith has exercised her opportu-nity to meet with Fraser for the purpose of reviewing details regarding her employment status. That meeting is scheduled to be con-ducted on November 25.

Fraser said, “Ms. Hallsmith’s creativity and energy have made positive contributions to the city during her tenure. These include improv-ing department operations and the permitting process, overseeing a very ambitious master plan process and successfully obtaining grants for the city—the most notable being $8 mil-lion for the district heat project. However, notwithstanding her past contributions, other actions and decisions by Ms. Hallsmith leave me no choice but to review the status of her employment at this time. I look forward to meeting with Ms. Hallsmith face-to-face to hear her response to the issues I have raised, after which I will make a final decision in the best interests of the city of Montpelier.”

Fraser will have no further comment on this matter until the meeting process is com-plete and a decision rendered.

Help Wanted :GrapHic desiGnerThe Bridge seeks someone with strong graphic design and computer skills to assemble the paper, start to finish, in-cluding creating high-quality ads to cus-tomer specifications, designing covers and laying out feature stories.

Experienced designer preferred, but willing to consider anyone with a strong aptitude for graphic design and a high comfort level with computers and design software. We use adobe cre-ative Suite on a Mac platform.

position requires strong interpersonal skills, ability to perform well under deadlines and pressure, multitasking, and ability to work with our team and the general public to create effective ads.

Interested? For more information, please contact Nat Frothingham: 223-5112 or [email protected].


Support Downtown BusinessesTo the Editor:As construction for the Montpelier bio-

mass heat distribution system comes to a close, I want to acknowledge the significant economic impact this project has had on many of our downtown merchants and to ask our residents to make an extra effort to shop locally during the holiday season.

The construction of the biomass system has been more disruptive than I anticipated. As City Manager Bill Fraser explains in the City Page of this Bridge issue, this is a complicated system that has never been built before in Vermont. That resulted in more extensive con-struction than would be required by simply laying pipes in the ground. The final repaving, which is expected to be completed this week, has also taken longer than expected, largely due to the complicated nature of the heat dis-tribution system that is being enclosed.

As Fraser acknowledges, we should have done a better job in communicating the con-struction progress—and delays—to down-town merchants and residents. The good news is that the project has been completed on bud-get and largely on schedule. And, of course, we will have a renewable source of heat for our downtown buildings for decades to come.

Montpelier is fortunate to have an ex-traordinary array of interesting shops and restaurants in its downtown. Please join me in the weeks ahead in showing appreciation for their commitment to our community by spending locally.

John Hollar, mayor, city of Montpelier

Let’s Make Montpelier More Bicycle Friendly

To the Editor:With support from Mayor Hollar and

City Council, Montpelier recently earned the bronze-level, bicycle-friendly community award from the League of American Bicy-clists. This award signals that Montpelier has been recognized for making a commit-ment to becoming friendly to bicyclists and for taking some initial steps in this direction. It doesn’t mean that Montpelier’s work is done. All who bicycle in Montpelier know there are numerous ways in which the city can make bicycling safer and easier. Before Montpelier can advance to silver, gold or platinum levels, it must demonstrate that it is making progress in various categories. Montpelier’s Bicycle Advisory Committee (MBAC) is learning how best to work with city departments and other advisory com-mittees to make Montpelier a more livable community. The MBAC meets on the first Thursday of the month at 8 a.m. in the com-munity room of the police department. All are welcome to attend these meetings. For more information, please feel free to contact me via 225-8904 or [email protected].

Nancy Schulz, executive director, Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition, Montpelier

Feast Thanks the CommunityTo the Editor:Feast senior meal program partners Just

Basics, Inc., Montpelier Senior Activity Cen-ter and Good Taste Catering would like to thank all the community members, business owners and individual donors that supported

our October 18 Harvest Fundraiser Dinner and Silent Auction. Dozens of volunteers contributed time in selling tickets, serving food, setting and cleaning up and more.

Senior meal programs such as Feast are vital to the nutrition and socialization of many, and the partnership we established be-tween a nonprofit, municipal and for-profit is proving to be a successful model. Profes-sionals and volunteers work together to pro-vide delicious and nutritious home-delivered meals five days weekly, on-site meals each Tuesday and Friday and takeout lunches for the public every Thursday.

Thanks for all the support that the whole community has shown in the first four months of Feast! To learn more, inquire about volunteering, make a donation or make a reservation, call 262-6288.

Kimberley Lashua, executive director, Just Basics, Inc.; Janna Clar, director, Montpelier Senior Activity Center; Justin Turcotte, chef/

owner, Good Taste Catering, Montpelier

Support Vermont’s Universal Health Care System

To the Editor:I’m a veteran of the U.S. Marines, and I’ve

struggled with health care and poverty for almost all of my life. I’ve been without health care (including dental) for many years. There have been times when I have gone on a health care plan through my work, only to lose it because my work was seasonal, or because I couldn’t afford the premium. Last year, I applied for VHAP (the Vermont state health care assistance program). At the time, I was on unemployment and on an extremely tight budget and again could not afford the monthly premium, so had to go without health care. I recently lived in a veteran’s home and was able to apply for and receive medical care through the Veterans Associa-tion. When I applied, I was told that because the VA system is so underfunded, almost everyone who applies is rejected at first and then has to appeal. This is what I had to do, and I had to go without access to health care the entire time that I was waiting.

Right now there is a lot of debate about health care as the Affordable Care Act is being implemented. I hope that everyone knows that Vermont is also on the path to establishing a universal health care system, starting in 2017. We have the opportunity to create a system where people truly can get the care that they need, and where people pay what they can afford, and not based on profit. I have joined the Health Care Is a Human Right Campaign because I believe that we can and must change our health care system to one that is based on human rights.

My health and everyone else’s health is also impacted not just by access to health care, but also by the other ways that profits are put before people and the planet. We are not able to be healthy because of the destruc-tion of our environment, our lack of access to healthy food, jobs that don’t pay a livable wage or a lack of paid sick days. All these issues are connected, and we have to all real-ize that there are corporations and extremely rich people that are profiting off this system while the majority of us struggle.

Dave Przepioski, Craftsbury

LettersEditorial

Annual Remembrance Event for Children on December 8This year’s community-wide candle-light-

ing vigil and service to remember chil-dren who have passed will take place at the Christ Church Parish Hall (across from the Montpelier Post Office) on Sunday evening, December 8, beginning at 6:45 p.m.

According to Carley Stevens-McLaughlin, who lost her son Taylor in a tragic automo-bile accident in January 2010, this year’s re-membrance event will begin with a welcome at 6:45 p.m., followed by a candle-lighting vigil for children who have passed, starting at 7 p.m. This candle-lighting vigil is part of a worldwide (December 8) candle-light vigil for children.

A list of participating artists includes f lutist Karen Kevra; singer-songwriter and

fiddler Susannah Blachly; keyboard artist Arthur Zorn; and singers Mark LeGrand and Sarah Munro. Turning to what she called a “highlight” of the service, Stevens-McLaughlin said, “Meg Reynolds will sing ‘Precious Child.’ It’s an amazing song. She will knock off the church walls.”

Speakers at the service will include Mont-pelier artist and clergyman Regis Cummings, poets Kerrin McCadden and Sara Hooker and motivational speaker Ann Zuccardy. The ser-vice will end with the singing of “This Little Light of Mine” by the a cappella choir, The Three Amigas.

Surviving family members of children who have passed are encouraged to bring a photo-graph of their child at a moment of sharing.

CorrectionIn the November 7, 2013 issue, on page 12, The Bridge ran a story about a one-day art exhibit on the theme of domestic violence. Accompanying the article were three reproductions of artwork displayed at the exhibit. At the 11th hour on production day, we had no identification for the artist of the middle piece and resorted to “unknown.” That multimedia work of art on cardboard, called Fracture, is by local artist Kate Fetherston. The Bridge regrets this omission.

The Bridge as First Citizen

Please Support Our Fundraising Campaign

by Nat Frothingham

Everyone who works at The Bridge—or-ganizing, writing, designing and deliver-

ing the paper—joins me in thanking our many readers and friends who have already contributed to the current 20th anniversary campaign to support the paper.

In addition to the three major projects we will pursue with intensified vigor in January 2014—(1) continuing our work with students and interns; (2) expanding our editorial cover-age and advertising outreach to neighboring communities; and (3) strengthening the pa-per’s online presence—is the work of the paper itself. That work of the paper was most power-fully described some years ago by my friend and longtime newsman Bill Porter when he likened the role of a good newspaper to a com-munity’s “first citizen.”

Bill wrote that a newspaper does what any committed citizen in a democracy would do if that citizen had the opportunity and time. That citizen would attend meetings, study the issues, question public officials, hear both sides, sort out the informational wheat from the chaff and assemble and make sense of what’s really happening in the political and public arena. Or as William Shakespeare said in another context: “Hold the mirror up to nature, show virtue her own feature, scorn her image, and the very age and body of the time his form and pressure.”

A few days ago, I got an e-mail message from a reader of The Bridge. She gets her water from the city of Montpelier, and among other things, she told me that her recent water bill is

showing water rates that are 47 percent higher than in March 2012. I live in Montpelier. I get water from the city and pay a water bill. Am I interested in finding out if the water rates here are rising dramatically? Yes, I am.

In a meeting with City Manager Bill Fraser, he agreed with me that there are fire-prone, vulnerable historic buildings in downtown Montpelier that still haven’t installed a fire sprinkler system. A dropped match or a busted electrical connection could set these buildings on fire. Am I concerned? Absolutely.

In recent years, we have been getting more and more government, and that government is more and more invasive. We have been getting larger, richer and more powerful corporations. At the same time, our First Amendment free-doms are under attack. Our once-free press is becoming an orphan.

As citizens, we still need to know what’s going on. If we don’t know what’s going on, we can’t vote, we can’t make choices, we can’t take effective action. That’s what’s at stake. That’s why the free press role of The Bridge has to be protected and why our current campaign for support has to succeed. If you can help finan-cially with a contribution of any size, please do.

Here are the essentials. Please send a check made payable to “The Bridge,” and either drop it off at The Bridge office on the lower level of Schulmaier Hall on the campus of the Vermont College of Fine Arts, or send a check to this address: The Bridge, P.O. Box 1143, Montpelier, VT 05601

Thank you in advance for your timely and generous support.

WHaT Do yoU THink?

Read something you want to respond to? We welcome your let-ters and opinion pieces. Letters must be 300 words or fewer; opinions, 600 words or fewer. Send your piece to [email protected].



Eat Great Food. Support Local Producers.Culinary Supported Agriculture™ from Screamin’ Ridge Farm

Joe’s CSA

Local vegetables and other foods that work together. You’ll receive about a 50/50 mix of vegetables and other local products. Joe Buley, chef-farmer, is planning shares that translate easily into delicious meals—and we’ll post ideas and cooking instructions for every share.

Pick-up sites that work for you. Two sites in Montpelier and others at local employers. Plus, we’ll create new sites for 10+ members. Let us know where you and your neighbors or coworkers want to pick up.

Vacation-friendly. Put your CSA pickup on hold while you're on vacation and use your credit in our online store or put it toward enrollment for the next season!

Priced for value. Receive a 10%–15% discount off retail pricing. You’ll get 10 double-shares, delivered about every 2 weeks, November 21 to April 3 ($675 total). Pay in installments or all at once with our easy online system.

Opportunity for local food producers. We support food producers right here in central VT. Enroll in Joe's CSA and have a direct impact on their success:

Blackwell Roots FarmBurnt Rock Farm Gaylord Farm

Kingsbury Market GardenKnoll FarmRhapsody Natural Foods

visit JoesCSA.com to learn more and sign up!Questions? Call 802-461-5371 or email [email protected]

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Capital City CashGive the gift of downtown Montpelier with Capital City Cash and support your local businesses. Purchases at Montpelier Shaw’s raises money for the Montpelier Food Pantry. Other outlets

include Artisans Hand, Bear Pond Books,

Capitol Stationers, Onion River Sports, People’s

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Mountain Toys.

11.29 Flannel FridayMontpelier’s version of Black Friday features a laid-back shopping atmosphere. Wear � annel (or purchase a � annel pin) to receive discounts at downtown shops. � e day features wagon rides and other family events. Tree lighting at 4 p.m.

11.29, 12.7, 12.14, 12.21 Free Horse-Drawn Wagon RidesPaul Ruta of Black Horse Farm will bring his wagon team to downtown Montpelier. Don’t miss this free chance to get a dierent view of Montpelier. First come, first served; please dress for the weather. Each trip takes about 15–20 minutes. Corner of State and Main Streets (in front of La Brioche). 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free, donations to Montpelier Alive accepted.

11.30 Small Business SaturdayRetailers will hold one-day specials and events on this day only. Come by and realize the small business di erence. Additionally, Buy Local books and Capital City Cash will be sold by Montpelier Alive.

12.1 Secret Sale SundaySsshh! Want to be in on the biggest secrets in town? You will be if you’re signed up for to receive emails from your favorite downtown businesses! Sign up by � anksgiving and receive an email with a secret mes-sage just for you!

12.5 State House Tree LightingChoir performances and an o� cial lighting by the governor, followed by refresments indoors. 4:30 p.m.

12.6 Montpelier Art Walk Stroll Montpelier’s holiday Art Walk, with two dozen venues featuring some of central Vermont’s � nest working artists, including open studios, receptions, and music. � is free family event is not to be missed. 4–8 p.m.; live mannequins in store windows courtesy of the Montpelier High School’s Masque Drama Club, 5–7 p.m.

12.7 Capital City Cash FlashSupport our local merchants and spend Capital City Cash during this one-day promotion and earn a chance to win $500 for the holidays! Meet at City Hall at 10 a.m.

12.7 Santa’s ArrivalCome decorate cookies with the chefs of NECI and tell Santa what’s on your Christmas list. A full day of family activities. Inside City Center, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

12.10–12.24 Free ParkingParking at metered spaces is free for up to two hours in downtown Montpelier to help you get your holiday shopping done. Parking for more than two hours may be subject to fines; all other normal parking rules ap-ply. Parking amnesty is courtesy of the City of Mont-pelier. Normal parking hours are 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday. Parking on holidays and weekends is always free.

12.11 Caroling Holiday and seasonal carols by the singers of Monte-verdi Music School. 4–5 p.m.

12.13–12.15Montpelier Craft & Art WeekendMontpelier’s crafters hold sales throughout downtown to bene� t local organizations on Saturday, including food, � ne art, international crafts and much more. Ornament making on Sunday at the Drawing Board, plus art sales throughout downtown.

12.31 New Year’s EveRing in the New Year at the capital with live music and gourmet restaurant meals.

proudly serving downtown Montpelier since 1999a Vermont Downtown Program nationally accredited by the National Main Street Center®

Montpelier Alive and our volunteers work in partnership with the City of Montpelier. We are supported by a mix of city allocation, grants, membership and program fees, sponsorships, and individual contributions from our community. Montpelier Alive is a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax-deductible donations may be sent to Montpelier Alive, 39 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602, or made online at MontpelierAlive.org or via the Just Give mobile app.

Holidays in Montpelier Montpelier Montpelier

Montpelier Food Pantry. Other outlets

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Montpelier

Love our improved holiday decorations? They were funded by the Downtown Improve-ment District. Many thanks to Montpelier Busi-ness Association, Morse Farm, Treeworks, and the City of Montpelier.

montpelieralive.org/holidays or 223-9604

Producers of:Green Up Day July 3rd Brown Bag Concerts Montpelier Art Walk MontPolar Frostival and . . . Capital City Cash, the Back Offi ce Series, Business Mentor Team, City Hall Plaza art contest, street pole banners, fl ower plantings, street weeding, fl ood notifi cation, Montpelier Business Association, Montpelier Information Booth, metal trash bins, metal recycling bins, downtown benches, coordinated retail events, Moonlight Madness, Flannel Friday, free horse drawn wagon rides, Santa ‘s Arrival, holiday garlands and lighting, business workshops, Skip Around Montpelier, Sculptcycle, fl ood recovery coordination, free holiday movies, Christmas tree lighting, downtown Trick or Treat, August Sidewalk Sales, holiday window contest, cooperative advertising, Montpelier Minute, brochure design and distribution, pumpkin carving contest, tourism and marketing, business recruitment, fi scal agent for Voices of Montpelier, Montpelier Fashion Show, Montpelier Movement Collective, 24 Hour Comics, and other independent projects.

Co-Producers of PoemCity

� is ad was paid in part by the City of Montpelier.

Mountain Toys.

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Documents

The Bridge, November 21, 2013