The Bridge, October 20, 2016

Honoring David Budbill Pg.
14
October 20 November 2, 2016
College Hall at the Vermont

College of Fine Arts.
Photo courtesy of VCFA
Creating a College:
The Story of the Vermont College of Fine Arts

by Nat Frothingham
Introduction:
IN THIS ISSUE:
Pg. 5 Meet Barre City's
House Canidates
Pg. 9 Column: A State
of Mind
Pg. 16 Old Soul Farm
PRSRT STD
CAR-RT SORT
U.S. Postage
PAID
Montpelier, VT
Permit NO. 123
Pg. 17 Remembering
Seamus Beall
Here is the remarkable story that details the

skein of events beginning in 2001 that led to
the formal incorporation of Vermont College
of Fine Arts, Inc. in May 2006.
Here also is the just-as-remarkable story of
the first 10 years of the college from 2006 to
the present.
Both stories, as told to The Bridge by College
President Thomas Christopher Greene, show
us how the idea of a new and independent
fine arts college survived adversity through
the near-miracle combination of timing,
vision, luck, community support, will-toachieve and sheer hard work.
The Crisis:
In 2001, Norwich University gave notice of
its intention to sell its Montpelier campus.
At the time, Tom Greene was working
for Norwich University President Richard
Schneider.
Talking about that decision to sell the
Montpelier campus, Greene said, I was
on the cabinet at Norwich when (President
Schneider) made that decision. It was a
decision I opposed.
The Bridge
P.O. Box 1143
Montpelier, VT 05601
But once Schneider made that decision,

Greene supported it and in hindsight, Greene
said he believed that Schneiders decision to
sell the Montpelier campus was really the
right decision.
I had a conversation with him at the time,
Greene said, because I had come from (the
Montpelier campus) I had started working
here in 1993 and I knew everybody who was
still part of the college. At the time I was
Director of Public Affairs at Norwich and
I worked very closely with Rich (President
Schneider). I had a conversation with him
when they wanted to sell it, where
I said, Why not let the employees find a
way to buy it out and take it as a separate
institution?
According to Greene, Schneider was open

to that idea when the two of them spoke.
But then there was suddenly a new player
on the scene. As Greene said, Within a
very short period of time, Union Institute &
University out of Ohio, with a new president
who wanted to make a splash, offered
Norwich $14.5 million to buy the campus
and all of the academic programs that were
here.
So Greenes idea for an employee buy-out
was superseded by a Union Institute purchase
proposal.
There was some general enthusiasm at the
time, said Greene about what was seen as
a good match between Union Institute and
the Montpelier campus. Union had grown
out of Goddard College in the early 1960s.
It was part of the Consortium of Progressive
Colleges with similar DNA between Union
and what was happening here, said Greene.
But that initial optimism about the fit
between Union and the Montpelier campus
quickly faded. Said Greene, What quickly
became apparent was that it was a merger
that just wasnt going to work.
Some of the problems were these: Union
was solidly based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its
new president was Cincinnati-based, as was
Unions board of trustees.
Then it came to light that Union, in Greenes
words had got into significant financial
trouble related to the Ph.D. program. They
lost, overnight, probably some 800 students.
So behind the scenes, said Greene, what
Union was doing around 2005/2006, was
trying to find a way to sell the Montpelier
campus.
According to Greene, Union thought they
had a deal in place with the University of
Vermont. As Greene tells the story, the UVM
president at the time, Dan Fogel wanted the
the campus and he wanted the three MFA
programs being offered at the Montpelier
campus: the MFA in Writing; the MFA in

Writing for Children and Young Adults;
and the MFA in Visual Arts. As Greene
explained, He wanted these programs
because UVM did not have MFA programs
and because these programs had national
reputations. As part of its deal-making with
Union, UVM had also created a blueprint
for the development of a UVM campus in
Montpelier.
But the UVM deal came to a screeching halt
when it was presented by the administration
to their board. UVM was facing technology
cost overruns to the tune of an unexpected
$25 million. According to Greene, the UVM
board said, You cant do both. You cant
both deal with the overruns and buy the
Montpelier campus.
When the UVM bid collapsed, Union was in
a panic because, as Greene said, They were
counting on that money in order to get them
out of the trouble they were in.
Summing it all up, Greene said, There was
a real possibility that for the first time since
1868 this campus would no longer be in
educational use.
There was also a good chance that the three
MFA programs including the highly
regarded MFA in Writing, would have to shut
down.
Just about at this time to make bad matters
worse, the Union Institute & University
announced publically: That the campus was
for sale to the highest bidder, and it did not
have to have an academic use.
Nor was the ensuing panic limited to academic
fortunes and misfortunes.
As the Montpelier community turned its
attention to the Union Institute sale, the failed
UVM bid and what could happen to the
campus, several rather unpleasant possibilities
came into view.
Continued on Page 12
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T H E B R I D G E
Heres News about our Current Fundraising Campaign

Dear Friend of The Bridge:
At the moment, we are counting about $5,000 already received towards our overall campaign goal of at least $25,000.
Why contribute?
Were a local paper with local news.
Were a printed paper you can hold in your hands, send to a friend, read in a caf, take on a trip, read on a mountaintop
or anywhere else.
Were committed to working with young writers and right now we have a spirited, ongoing project with writers at
Montpelier High School and we have also recently published writers from U-32 High School.
We seek out the broadest range of letter, opinions, comments, essays there are no partisan tests. You can be a
Progressive, a Republican, a Democrat or Independent. Please be in touch. We honor all points of view.
Although were a local paper were aware of state, national and worldwide news and developments all the big forces
that are shaping so much of what happens everywhere.
A few months ago, we launched an experiment to put our calendar of events online and we asked for your comment.
We heard from a lot of people. I cant remember a single comment in favor of our putting the Calendar of Events on
line. So its back in the paper.
Please help us out by taking us another solid step or two to our fundraising goal of at least $25,000.
Look for a return envelope in this paper or if an envelope is missing please find an envelope and send us a check made
payable to The Bridge at this address: The Bridge, P.O. Box 1143, Montpelier, VT 05601. Or stop by our office with
a check. Or just stop by and say Hello.
Thank you in advance,
Nat Frothingham, Editor & Publisher
November 12 Youth Variety Show

Please join us on Saturday evening, November 12, for a family-friendly potluck dinner at 6 p.m. to
be followed by a 7 p.m. Youth Variety Show at Bethany Church on Main Street in Montpelier.
Join the potluck. Hang out with friends. Enjoy the Youth Variety Show. Support The Bridge.
If you are between the ages of 5 and 25 and would like to perform in the show or
display creative projects, please call the event's organizer at 223-5112 ext. 12 or email
marichel@montpelierbridge.com.
Nature Watch
by Nona Estrin
Salamander Pond Is Low, Time For Rain
Support The Bridge

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the big tree on Barre Street ... a spectacular sight according to all who have seen it.
Friends of The Bridge will be periodically acknowledged in future issues of

The Bridge. I wish to remain anonymous
hese lovely fall days must give way to rain! Today the spotted salamander pond is
no longer just low, but virtually empty. I have never in 37 years seen it like this.
Still, down at Bobolink Farm, the beaver ponds contain full resovoirs of water,
conserved by these furry engineers in a time of drought. I make my way home, mouth
crammed with sweet-tart wild purple grapes, their juicy bounty not hurt in the least by
the dry summer.
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THE BRIDGE
HEARD ON THE STREET

Grassroots Task Force Aims To Create New Fitness Center
MONTPELIER A formal group has formed and is working towards creating a recreational
facility to address the gap left behind by the closing of the downtown First in Fitness. The
Montpelier Indoor Rec and Aquatics Task Force is meeting regularly. For now the group is
doing market research and looking at the feasibility of creating a space that is affordable,
accessible and sustainable, and which offers services that improve the quality of life for the
local community. An indoor pool is part of the discussion. Montpelier Indoor Rec and
Aquatics Task Force expects to involve the public soon with a survey and another open public
meeting. For further information feel free to contact Dot Helling at dhelling@gmail.com.
City Clerks Office Hosting House, Senate Candidate Forum on ORCA

MONTPELIER Montpelier City Clerk John Odum hosted a candidate forum over
ORCA public access cable, Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. The event was held in ORCAs
Montpelier studio and featured a question and answer period, first with the four candidates
for State House of Representatives in Montpelier (Washington-4), followed by a session
with candidates for Washington County Senate (Incumbent Senators Ann Cummings and
Anthony Pollina, as well as challengers Josh Fitzhugh and Francis Brooks all agreed to attend).
Each forum will lasted approximately 50 minutes. The event will broadcast on several dates (to
be announced) over public access cable between the 19th and election day, Nov. 8.
Quirky Pet Shop Owner Donates To Spay/Neuter Program

MONTPELIER Cindra Conison, owner of The Quirky Pet, recently announced that her
shop is heading towards $1,000 donated to VT CAN (a spay and neuter clinic in Middlesex)
for the spaying and neutering of the dogs and cats of low income Central Vermont families.
Every time a customer in her shop asks to take a picture of the three Quirky Pet sheepdogs,
a donation is requested. The donations have been rapidly adding up. Conison has been heard
paraphrasing a famous baseball star of the mid-seventies, Chico Esquala: "Leaf season been
berry berry goo' to me."
Markstein Joins Tree Board

MONTPELIER Emily Markstein has climbed aboard the Parks and Trees Board.
Markstein is the new Park ECO AmeriCorps member who joined for the last few weeks
and will be with the Board for a year, according to a recent city managers report. Markstein
has already jumped in deep, spending a rainy day deep in the woods working on habitat
restoration with one group and several days doing invasive management with a couple groups.
Emily has a great smile and spirit, and has already made a positive impact on our parks.
Marksteins focus will be on watershed-related improvements, i.e. habitat improvements and
sediment control on roads and trails, City Manager William Fraser wrote.
National Group Helps City

Remove Invasive Plants
MONTPELIER The City has gotten help from a National Civilian Community Corps
group, according to a report from City Manager William Fraser. The group that came to us
for three days has been working on a couple Habitat for Humanity houses in the area, but also
helped us pull out hundreds of huge invasive honeysuckle plants in the North Branch River
Park, as well as out of a Class 1 wetland area, a special and high level wetlands habitat we are
very happy to be taking care of. They also worked with park staff and the Department Of
Labor crew to replace our lumber rack with one that has a much better design, along with a
structure that has integrity.
AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) is a full-time, team-based
residential service program for individuals ages 18 to 24. NCCC members are organized into
10- to 12-member teams and serve in local communities in all 50 states and U.S. territories,
according to nationalservice.gov.
Winston Presents Films Of The Sixties
MONTPELIER/CALAIS Rick Winston, former co-owner of the Savoy theater and

film history instructor at the Montpelier Senior Activity Center, will present a three-session
seminar on Films of the 1960s, both in Montpelier and Calais.
The 1960s was a time of turbulence and change, in films as well as in society. Well examine
how the films of this era reflect their times and how they affected the culture in turn. The
sessions in Montpelier will be on three Monday nights in November (Nov. 7, 14 and 21) at
ORCA Media; while the ones in Calais will be once a month on Saturday afternoons (Dec. 4,
Jan. 8, Feb. 4) at the home of Barbara Weedon in Adamant.
The first session will be an overview
of the masters of foreign film during
this period, plus a look at the various
influential trends in national cinemas,
such as the French New Wave. The
second will examine how foreign
directors influenced American ones,
both technically and thematically.
The third session will focus on
American films that grappled with
issues of racism, violence and Cold
War politics.
The price for one session is $40,
with attendance at all three of
$100. To reserve a place or for more
information, contact Rick by email
Marcello Mastroianni, an actor in Frederico
at winsrick@sover.net or call 454-7103. Fellini's movie "8 1/2 ."
T H E B R I D G E
Washington 3 Candidate Q&A

by Carla Occaso
ashington 3 House Candidates (Barre City), challenger Karen Lauzon, a

Republican, and Incumbent Rep. Tom Walz, a Democrat, offer their answers to
questions by The Bridge, in order of receipt.
Barre Representative Tom Walz Airs Issues

The Bridge: What is the best way to improve our economy?
Tom Walz: The best way to improve our economy is to put more money in consumers'
pockets, and the best way to do that is to ensure livable wages. It is absurd and an indictment
of our current situation that a person can work full-time and still have to depend upon public
assistance. Increased consumer spending will also help create more jobs.
The Bridge: What is the best way to streamline and cut costs on the health care system?
Walz: The best way to address increasing costs of the health care system is to take on the
pharmaceutical companies and their outrageous increases in drug prices. Medicare should be
allowed to negotiate drug prices, and Americans should be allowed to purchase prescription
drugs from Canada through their insurance plans.
The Bridge: Are we going in the right direction with education and school consolidation?
What is Barre doing about it? What do you support statewide as a way to cut education costs?
Walz: I am co-chair of Barre's Act 46 Study Committee. We have filed our final report with
the Agency of Education and will be asking Barre City and Town to approve the Articles of
Agreement on Nov. 8. Act 46 makes a great deal of sense for Barre. It will result in better
educational opportunities for Barre children, increased efficiencies and $4.1 million savings
in education taxes over the next four years.
The Bridge: How about legalizing the recreational use of marijuana? Do you support it or
oppose it and why?
Walz: It is too early to legalize marijuana without having more answers. Colorado has
experienced huge increases in DUIs and in marijuana use among minors. There is no reliable
roadside test for impairment from marijuana use.
The Bridge: What is your biggest concern for the upcoming session?
Walz: The opiate addiction issue cuts across many sectors: the economy, productivity, mental
health, law enforcement, the court system and the impact it has on individual neighborhoods,
families and the addicts themselves. We need to do a better job of addressing the causes of
addiction.
Vermonts small population, resulting in even higher premium costs. If elected, Ill call for
a non-partisan assessment. We should start by asking one simple question, If Vermonts
exchange model is such a good idea, why do over 80 percent of the states employ an entirely
different (and less expensive) model? I believe we need to place more priority emphasis on
wellness programs and illness prevention that is much more cost effective than treatment.
The Bridge: Are we going in the right direction with education and school consolidation?
What is Barre doing about it? What do you support as a way to cut education costs?
Lauzon: Last year, the legislature passed Act 46. Act 46, in its simplest explanation, is a
cost containment act that encourages the consolidation of school districts and reduction of
administrative costs. Like many of the laws the legislature passes, its not perfect and is going
to require revision as school districts work towards implementation. Our legislators were
very honest about that. In Barre, our local school boards and administration have worked
thousands of hours in their planning presentation to the voters. On Nov. 8, I will vote to
merge our school districts. Regardless of the outcome, I will respect the result of the vote. An
affirmative vote in Barre will result in millions of dollars in savings. In Barre, I believe the
consolidation of our school districts makes sense. Having said that, what works well in Barre
may not work well in a smaller, more geographically challenging community.
The Bridge: How about legalizing the recreational use of marijuana? Do you support it or
oppose it and why?
Lauzon: Last year, the Vermont House voted against legalization. While supporters of
legalization may be determined to bring that issue up again in the upcoming session, I would
strongly resist that effort. In the past two months Ive listened to hundreds of Barre city
residents and heard concerns about topics such as the economy, the high cost of living, health
care, crime and addiction. No one has expressed to me an urgency or even a desire to legalize
marijuana. I believe that citizens are best served when government listens to their concerns
and gives priority to the issues that affect the greatest number of citizens most. While I would
listen openly and objectively to the arguments for and against legalization at the appropriate
time, I dont believe that this is the time to have that debate. We have too many other
important issues such as affordability, education and addiction that must take priority.
Eventually, Vermont will have to discuss and decide this issue. I would propose that the issue
be placed on the ballot, as was done in Colorado.
The Bridge: What is your biggest concern for the upcoming session?
Barre Business Owner, Challenger Karen Lauzon Speaks Out
Lauzon: We have many challenges and limited resources. While every challenge is important,
they cant all be a priority. My biggest concern is that the legislature will not place the proper
priority on the issues that matter most to Vermonters. As Ive visited with friends and
neighbors in Barre during my campaign, their concerns are fairly consistent bringing good
jobs to Vermont, raising stagnant wages, attracting businesses, bending the addiction curve
and preserving Vermonts environment. I would be a proponent for placing priority on the
basics keeping young people in Vermont, growing the economy, containing government
spending, supporting local businesses and protecting our environment.
The Bridge: What is the best way to improve our economy?
Karen Lauzon, a Republican, is property manager at Edgewood Development LLC.
Lauzon: Im proud to be a small business owner in Barre and part of the local economy. We
employ local contractors and buy construction materials locally. The best way to improve our
economy is to focus on local businesses and provide incentives to those who start or invest
in them. We should support and incentivize Vermonter to Vermonter business lending and
investment programs. Here in Barre, weve had over one dozen younger Vermonters start
or purchase a local business in the past two years. The effect on our community has been
powerful. Right now, there are hundreds of unfunded young Vermonters out there with a
vision and a dream willing to work hard and wanting to be part of the local economy. We
should make certain that they get their opportunity and give others opportunities to support
them.
Editors Note: Also running is Incumbent Rep. Paul Poirier, an Independant of Barre City.
The Bridge was unsuccessful in reaching him for this story by phone and email. However, he
has been on the Barre City Council dating back to the early 1980s. He has served in the House of
Representatives from 1981 to 1988, and then from 1997 through the present according to http://
legislature.vermont.gov/.
Walz, a former teacher, retired in 2008 as head of the IT Department for the Barre City
Supervisory Union after working for 35 years in education. He was appointed by Governor Peter
Shumlin to serve as a representative to Barre in the House of Representatives on March 2014. He
replaced Democrat Rep. Tess Taylor.
The Bridge: What is the best way to streamline the health care system?
Lauzon: I have been openly skeptical about the future of Vermonts one of a kind health care
exchange. While I believe the exchange was developed with the best of intentions, Vermont
has invested over a quarter of a billion dollars into a one of a kind health care exchange that
doesnt function consistently or economically. As of June 2016, the backlog of unrecorded life
changes at Vermont Health Connect stood at over 3,200. In other words, Vermonts exchange
is still struggling. Lets assume that our current exchange actually begins functioning reliably.
The incredibly expensive future costs to maintain the exchange will have to be absorbed by
Got a news tip? We want to know!

Send it to us at: editorial@montpelierbridge.com
THE BRIDGE
A Message From City Hall

This page was paid for by the City of Montpelier.
Moving on in 2017:
Roadway Improvements, Economic
Development and Tourism Signage
by Mayor John Hollar
Steady Progress on Paving
Montpeliers road conditions continue to be a major concern in Montpelier, but thanks
to the steady work of our Department of Public Works, and the strong commitment of
the city council to sustainable infrastructure funding, we are making real progress. The
city has repaved nearly nine miles of roads in the last four years and has rebuilt numerous
sidewalks throughout town. We are more than halfway towards our goal of increasing
infrastructure spending by about one million dollars per year.
Next year, we will see major improvements to our citys main corridors. The state will
repave Route 12 (Main and Elm streets) from Memorial Drive to the Middlesex town
line, with the remainder of Route 12 South (Northfield Street) to be completed in 2018.
The city will begin major water and sewer line repairs to Northfield Street next summer.
The state will also repave State Street from Bailey Ave. to Main Street in 2017. These
projects will take about two months next summer, and the city is making plans to help
minimize the disruption to downtown businesses, visitors and residents.
Other paving projects next year will include Merrill Terrace, Harrison Ave., Winter St.,
Gallison Hill Road, and possibly Towne Hill and Gov. Davis Ave.
We are expecting to begin construction on the bike path from Granite Street to Gallison
Hill next spring. We recently received a state grant to study the creation of bike lanes
along Barre Street and Main Street to make our downtown more accessible to bicyclists.
Those lanes could be installed next year.
Taylor Street will receive a general facelift, including repaving, new sidewalks, landscaping
and undergrounding of many utility lines, in preparation for the larger Taylor Street
development project including the transit center, housing units, bike path and
pedestrian bridge that will likely begin in 2018. We had expected to begin construction
next year, but the project has been significantly delayed due to major difficulties in
purchasing small easements from three large Montpelier property owners.
Promoting Economic Development

The city completed an Economic Development Strategic Plan in June which outlined a
comprehensive strategy for Montpelier to increase economic activity, private-sector jobs
and population in our community.
The plans recommendations (available on the citys web site) include:
Positioning Montpelier as a superior quality location for development.
Identifying key sectors for growth,

including
higher
education,
food processing and advanced
manufacturing, entrepreneurs, finance
and insurance, specialty retail, and
tourism, hospitality and the arts.
Making strategic investments in sites, infrastructure and approval processes to position
Montpelier as a superior quality location;
Championing transformational projects, such as new housing and a new hotel.
The plan also recommended that the city create a local development corporation to
implement these recommendations. The city council endorsed the LDC proposal and
has committed $100,000 in annual funding.
The council appointed the first five members of the nine-person board last week, and
Montpelier Alive is scheduled to appoint the remaining four this week.
We received an impressive array of applications that made choosing a board a challenging
task. The board members appointed by the council are Michael Nobles, chief executive
officer of Union Mutual of Vermont; Tim Heney, owner of Heney Realtors; Lynn
Ribolini, developer; Cheryl LaFrance, chief financial officer of Northfield Savings Bank;
and Bill Kaplan, local entrepreneur.
Helping Visitors Find Their Way

One of the hallmarks of great tourist cities is good signage, and its something that our
city lacks. It is not easy for visitors to find their way around Montpelier when they stop
to visit.
Montpelier Alive recently hired a consultant, Surface Matter Design, to develop a new
Capital City Wayfinding Master Plan. The plan will be used to create new signs to direct
visitors and residents to key points of interest and public amenities.
As with the new City of Montpelier and Montpelier Alive websites, the plan will follow
the new city branding that was completed in 2014. That branding resulted in a new logo
that is used on most city communications.
Montpelier Alive has convened a citywide steering committee to help guide the creation
of the plan. The community is invited to a public meeting on November 1 where Surface
Matter Design will present preliminary ideas and gather input from attendees. Visit
the Montpelier Alive Capital City Community Calendar (montpelieralive.org) or the
Montpelier Alive Facebook page for more details as they become available.
Designing a Net Zero Downtown

Net Zero Vermont has just completed the first round of its Sustainable Montpelier
design competition, and the twenty submissions were magnificent. The amount of time
and skill devoted to these proposals was awe-inspiring. They were displayed Oct. 2-5
downtown for public viewing and voting, and five finalists were selected. All of the
entries, including the finalists, can be seen at www.netzerovt.org.
The final product will help Montpelier envision new downtown designs to help
us meet our goal for Montpelier to be the first state capital to produce or offset
all of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2030.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts at
jhollar@montpelier-vt.org.
Photo by Annie Tiberio-Cameron
T H E B R I D G E
Montpelier Flood Watch:
Helpful Tips To Stay Safe and Avoid Damage

Before, During, and After Floods
This page was paid for by the City of Montpelier.
ontpelier is a city that has experienced flooding since its inception with recorded events back
as far as July 1830. These included flood
events like the Great Flood of 1927 and
ice jam events such as the one in 1992.
The City responded in the past by building dams and channelizing the rivers and
streams. Today, the city, state and federal governments use avoidance (keeping
people and property away from danger)
to keep the public safe rather than engineering the river (building new levees and
dams).
The City of Montpeliers Department of
Planning & Community Development
Department puts out this annual message
to help the public stay safe. We have eight
tips to help keep you and your property safe before, during, and after a flood. Before a
flood you should know your risk, build safety into your design, buy flood insurance, and
make a plan. During a flood you should be aware during flood watches and take action
during flood warnings. After a flood you should only return home when safe and then
document damage and apply for permits.
ily is separated.
Montpelier now uses VT-ALERT as its
emergency notification system. Sign up for
VT-ALERT at www.vtalert.gov/
#5 Be aware during Flood Watches.
When flooding is likely, listen to the radio
or television for information. Montpelier
is vulnerable to flash flooding and conditions can change quickly. Know where
to go if you need to reach higher ground
quickly by foot. You should get out your
emergency kit and make preparations.
Around your home you should bring in
outdoor furniture, move essential items to
an upper floor, and turn off utilities at the
main switches or valves if instructed to do
so. You should also disconnect electrical
appliances but do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
#6 Take action during Flood Warnings. This may require either moving to higher
ground or evacuating if directed to do so. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move
immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move. Be aware of streams,
drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can
#1. Know your flood risk. Residents who live along or near the Winooski, North Branch, occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
Dog or Stevens Branch Rivers may be in the floodplain. The floodplain is a low-lying Sometimes evacuation is necessary. If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuarea adjacent to a waterway that is generally subject to flooding, and is often designated ation tips:
by FEMA as an area that has a 1% chance of being flooded each year. To help you deter Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If
mine where your property is in relation to the floodplain please contact the Department
you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check
of Planning & Community Development. Staff can look this information up for you for
the firmness of the ground in front of you.
free. Flash flooding can also occur along any stream and many of these streams are not
Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car
mapped as flood hazards by FEMA. Understand that any quiet brook can become raging
and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. A foot of water is enough to float
river under certain circumstances and you should plan ahead.
many vehicles. Finally, two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, includ#2 Build safety factors into your design. All development in the floodplain requires
ing SUVs and trucks You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away. Turn around.
permits. Please call so we can determine what will be required. If you are building a new
Dont drown!
home you will be required to elevate your home above the base flood elevation in order to
prevent flood waters from entering your home. Other than not building in the floodplain #7 Return home only when safe. After a flood it is important to listen to the news and
at all, this is always the best alternative. Many of us, though, have older homes, built be- to call City Hall to see whether it is safe to return. During a flood a number of utilities
fore floodplains were mapped and regulations in place. For these buildings we have other and areas may not be safe. For example:
floodproofing options to help retrofit your home. For example you could:
The drinking water supply may not be safe to drink.
elevate your building above the base flood elevation;
installing closures and sealants around doors and windows;
construct new watertight walls;
install flood vents in existing walls or construct floodwalls or levees;
elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding;
install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the
drains of your home;
seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
Around your home it is also important to not dump trash or any other debris, including
leaves, into ditches, streams or rivers. A plugged channel cannot carry water and when it
rains it may cause flooding. Properties near waterways should do their part to keep banks
clear of debris.
Fortunately the City is available to guide you with specifics about projects in the flood
hazard area. Development of any type within the floodplain requires a permit prior to
commencement. This will provide the city and state the opportunity to inform you of
any requirements needed to meet the minimum standards as well as make any suggested
changes that could improve safety and reduce flood insurance costs. At a minimum new
buildings are required to be built above or flood proofed below the base flood elevation.
Also, building additions or improvements that exceed 50% of the value of the existing
building are treated as new buildings must be raised above the base flood elevation or otherwise flood proofed, if applicable. Always check with the City before you store materials,
clear vegetation, re-grade or fill on your property within the flood hazard area.
Remaining floodwaters may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.

Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. Use extreme caution when
entering buildings that had previously been flooded as there may be hidden damage,
particularly in foundations.
Septic tanks, and leaching systems may have failed and should be serviced as soon as
possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards. Clean and disinfect
everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.
#8 Document damage and get permits. After a flood it is very important to contact your
insurance agent and the Planning Department before repairing or rebuilding any damage.
This is critical to remaining eligible for federal assistance if it becomes available. Taking
pictures of damage and working with the planning office is the fastest way to get moving
forward without jeopardizing your assistance.
Although the City, state government, the Army Corps of Engineers, and FEMA have
constructed flood mitigation devices, enacted various forms of legislation, and initiated
numerous activities and programs designed to mitigate flooding and flood damage to the
city, the threat of flooding and flood damage remains significant. The Montpelier Hazard
Mitigation Plan, adopted in 2014, presents strategies to mitigate future flood losses in the
#3 Buy flood insurance. The most important flood protection device, after preven- event a flood does occur.
tion, is flood insurance. If your property is located in the floodplain and you do not It is possible that as the shape of land changes over time or new information becomes
have flood insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Homeowner's insurance policies do available, properties once believed to be in the floodplain might, in fact, no longer be. In
not cover damage from floods. If your lending institution is requiring that you purchase March of 2013 new floodplain maps became effective. Properties that had been in the
flood insurance and you believe that you have little or no risk there are tools available to floodplain may no longer be and properties that hadnt been in the floodplain in the past
determine your risk. Please call the Planning Department for information on what tools may be now. If you have questions about the location of the floodplain please contact the
are available.
Planning Department.
The City of Montpelier also participates in a voluntary program through FEMA called The City of Montpelier and the Department of Planning & Community Development are
the Community Rating System (CRS), and has implemented a number of initiatives in an here to help you with your questions regarding flooding in our community. Multiple staff
effort to reduce flood damage. As a result of our participation in CRS residents receive a members are specially trained in floodplain management and receive annual training in
5% discount in flood insurance rates for the municipality and for individual policy hold- this area. We can provide you with information about local flooding hazards; flood safety;
ers. We are currently working to improve our rating which will improve our discount flood insurance; property protection measures; and mapping and regulatory assistance.
percentage.
We have many informational brochures and pamphlets here in the office. We can assist
#4 Make an emergency plan Build a kit. There are lots of tools online to help make with reading and understanding NFIP maps and print them out for you. You can also
emergency plans but FEMA has a site at www.ready.gov/floods. Emergencies dont always ask the librarian and the Kellogg Hubbard Library for the flood information that we have
give you the time to plan and gather resources so having a plan and kit allows you to act provided for them. Please do not hesitate to call me, Audra Brown, CFM, Planning &
quickly and have a common meeting point or communication plan for when your fam- Zoning Assistant, 802-223-9506 or email abrown@montpelier-vt.org.
THE BRIDGE
Tree Hugger: Single Trees Are Lonely

by Dot Helling
an you be a tree hugger and live in

downtown Montpelier? My guess is
Montpelier Tree Board Chair John
Snell would say yes! It depends on your
definition. Kind of like the debate we used
to have with Reverend John Nutting about
whether or not transplanted Vermonters ever
become real Vermonters. I came to Vermont
in the early 70s and would argue to him, I'm
not even a flatlander. I was born in another
country. ''Don't matter, the Reverend would
say in a heavy Vermont brogue, Just because
the kittens were born in the oven doesn't
mean you can call 'em muffins. In other
words, it requires generations of Vermontborn predecessors to consider yourself a native.
But definitions do change and expand.
Just look at some of the new words entered
into the Merriam-Webster's and Oxford
Dictionaries: dogtor, binky, teenmentia,
cancerversary, gimongous, trumpism,
spaghettification, confuzzle. The definition
of ki expanded as a pronoun and is used
to describe trees personally, not as its.
Webster's defines native to include those
who are homegrown, meaning we are native
to or characteristic of a particular area. So, in
my book, I am a native. It is a state of mind.
I am also a tree hugger. Tree hugger is
generally defined as someone who loves the
environment and advocates for the preservation
of woodlands. It has been used disparagingly
in reference to radical environmentalists,
eg. Duck Squeezers, Green Panthers,
eagle freaks, crunchies, around here
it's those Goddard folk. In reality a tree
hugger is anyone who is passionate for their
environment, whether it be for your one and
only tree on your downtown lot, or your 400
plus acres in the Northeast Kingdom, or out
enjoying our State and National Parks.
Unlike those who own large tracts of land,

a city tree hugger cares about the global
landscape, the concept that every tree is a
part of the greater whole. Today 78 percent
of Vermont is forested but fragmented. In
the 1800s the state was mostly fields full of
sheep and marked by stone walls. Today 81
percent of Vermont's forested land is privately
owned. More than one third of Vermont
landowners own an acre or less. Tree huggers
need to appeal to small to think about the
connectivity of parcels and encourage wildlife
movement corridors.
This September I participated in a three-day
Vermont Coverts: Woodlands for Wildlife
program at the Kehoe Conservation Area
near Lake Bomoseen, in Hydeville. I became a
certified Coverts Cooperator. I am not alone.
In Vermont there are now over 650 Coverts
Cooperators. In Washington County we
have 43 individuals who have completed the
program since 1984. The Coverts mission is
to enlist Vermont landowners in a long term
commitment to maintain and enhance diverse
wildlife habitat and healthy ecosystems.
Covert is defined here as a thicket in which
game can hide, undercover but not as a furtive
spy. It is pronounced with a hard, short co
like company.
Coverts Cooperators are stewards, charged
with networking and educating others about
the threats to our forests and wildlife and how
to preserve and protect them. Among many
other benefits, forests sequester and manage
carbon. Many stewardship steps are small
in the grand scheme, but each small step
makes a difference. Retaining dead wood and
snag trees is good for forest regeneration
and provides roosting, foraging, nesting and
perching sites for birds. By leaving deadfall in
the forest or creating a brush pile, you provide a
place for nesting habitat and nester protection

from predators. Bringing back wild apple trees
is a food supply for wildlife. A simple forest
stewardship plan includes identifying and
removing invasive plants and keeping out
exotic insect pests. The latter often come in on
firewood from other states. Invasives are sold
as ornamental plants that quickly spread. The
three most prevalent invasives in Vermont
are Japanese barberry, common and glossy
buckthorn and bush honeysuckle, all pretty,
not native and harmful. Believe it or not, there
is a barberry bush planted in front of our city
hall. Learn how to identify these plants, don't
plant them, remove them if you find them
and prevent their spread.
Japanese barberry quickly colonizes forests
and shuts out room for native shrubs, tree
seedlings and herbaceous plants. It is home
to mice populations and a Lyme tick harbor.
Buckthorn contains a natural laxative which
prevents mammals from digesting the sugar
in berries. It also increases the amount of
nitrogen in soil, thereby impacting native
species in the area. Non-native bush
honeysuckle impacts forest regeneration and
increases the predation rate of songbirds who
build nests in it. And there are others, like
Dame's rocket the four petal phlox impostor,
wild chervil, which looks like parsley, our new
toxic skin-burning enemy yellow parsnip and
purple loosestrife which is a pretty draw for
bees but will take over our fields. Montpelier
huggers are battling bush honeysuckle,
goutweed aka bishop's weed and Japanese
knotweed. This spring a Vermont Coverts
expert, in collaboration with the Montpelier
Tree Board, will hold a public workshop on
invasives impacting our city. The University of
Vermont Extension Program offers an online
course called Backyard Forestry which will
also provide you with the knowledge and
tools to take care of the forests and wildlife in
your world. You can also apply to become a
Vermont Coverts Cooperator.
Most tree huggers intentionally commit to
being such, but there are also accidental
conservationists like Mike DeMasi of
Northfield. DeMasi, a long time hunter,
has come to love his forest and the wildlife
Invasive barberry bush in front of City

Hall. Photo by Dot Helling.
therein so much that he had an epiphany:
he still likes to hunt but not pull the trigger.
DeMasi became a Coverts Cooperator in
2014.
According to forester Peter Wohlleben who
wrote The Hidden Life of Trees, single
trees are lonely. In a forest they communicate
and work together as a family to drive off
invasive insects and environmental threats.
They fend off chemicals and parasites by
sending chemical and electrical signals
through their roots. Wohlleben's book
focuses on ecosystem preservation and the
social life of trees, a good read for huggers.
During the Coverts workshop one of the
presenters told us, Hug a logger and you'll
never go back to trees. I may not have found
Mr. Right Logger, but I don't believe I will
ever stop hugging trees, especially during
Vermont's fabulous fall foliage seasons.
T H E B R I D G E
No Pain,
No Gain
by Larry Floersch
dont know about you, but Im getting a

little tired of my Fitbit scale telling me my
Body Mass Index is way out of whack or
my wrist activity tracker urging me to move
every 30 minutes. Who do these devices think
they are? My doctor?
This whole fitness thing is getting out of
hand. I mean, who can afford to stay fit? Its
expensive enough just to get or stay well, what
with the help of people like Martin Shkreli
or the maker of EpiPens.
I remember the first time I tried jogging,
which was shortly after it was invented like
in the 1970s or something. I didnt have the
right shoes. Someone told me I needed track
shoes, so I went out and bought track shoes.
But those were not right either, because they
were designed for sprinting on the artificial
surface of a track and did not provide any
cushioning on pavement. Then Mr. Nike or
Mr. Adidas or somebody invented running
shoes, which were like track shoes on steroids
both in the amount of cushioning and the
cost. If you ran a lot, running shoes had to be
replaced about once a year or so. The last time
I bought new ones they cost me over $140
and that was for just the shoes. You also had
to look the part. You couldnt just wear your
old gym shorts from high school. Nosiree!
You had to buy all kinds of shorts and shirts
and socks and jogging suits and rain jackets
so you could jog comfortably in all sorts of
miserable weather conditions.
A catalog for high-end office and stationery
objects arrived in my mailbox the other day.
I knew it was high-end because the pens
and pencils were described as fine writing
instruments. Thats a far cry from the days
when a fine writing instrument was a good
old yellow No. 2 Dixon Ticonderoga that
you would take up to the pencil sharpener at
the blackboard. Now that was a fine writing
instrument you could sink your teeth into
literally.
Anyhow, in this catalog, among the expensive
leather portfolios that James Bond might carry
only if Q had made them lethal, and the fine
writing instruments that looked like ordinary
ballpoint pens to me, was a curious object
a stool. But this was no ordinary stool. This
stool had a small seat, a single telescoping
leg, and a spring-loaded base that forced the
user to wobble around on it. The idea behind
it is the user exercises core torso muscles
while trying to balance on it, thereby working
out and becoming more fit while sitting
at a desk and trying to use a fine writing
instrument. So technically it was a piece of
exercise equipment. And to demonstrate how
important your core muscles and your fitness
are, the catalog was offering this stool for
and Im not making this up ONLY $600!
Did I mention that it was a STOOL? A ONELEGGED STOOL!
We have several old office chairs here at The
Bridge that wobble when you sit in them. Staff
members avoid them like the plague when we
have staff meetings. I dont think anyone here
considers those chairs to be pieces of exercise
equipment, and yet here we are sitting (sort
of) on a gold mine! (Note to Publisher Nat
Frothingham: If we sold those old chairs as
exercise equipment, we could pay our hardworking columnists twice what they are paid
now! Just a thought!)
It turns out there are a lot of such things
out there in the office exercise equipment
marketplace. Some of the devices are miniature
versions of regular exercise equipment that
you can hide under your desk, such as stair
steppers or pedaling machines. Some of it is

just standard stuff, like hand grip exercisers.
But some of it is office furniture specifically
designed to be exercise equipment. Instead of
a stool, for example, there are several versions
of the ball chair. This is a chair into which
you place one of those large inflatable exercise
balls that you sit on to work your core muscles.
Given that these chairs have a back and,
sometimes, armrests, I guess they give you
a more business-like appearance than just
perching gargoyle-like on a ball in the middle
of your office. If I were to sit in one of those
chairs and wobble around, I would resemble
Jabba the Hutt on his throne. People might
fear me, but not necessarily think I was a
hard-working journalist. And Id have to eat
raw frogs.
There are also office chairs that resemble
Nautilus machines, with ropes and pulleys
and elastic bands that you use to work your
arms and shoulders. Victor Frankenstein
would be impressed. One of my favorites is a
desk with a built-in treadmill, which gives new
meaning to the daily grind. You can spend
eight hours a day chasing your work with your
fine writing instrument in hand.
Like the wobbly stool in the catalog, none of
this stuff is cheap. But thats what Ive come to
expect from the exercise and fitness industry.
And I know that if I wait long enough and
drive around to enough yard sales, one of these
days I will find, sitting at the end of driveway
with a Concept2 rowing machine to one side
and a Nordic Track cross country ski trainer
to the other, one of these wobbly stools with
a FREE sign on it. In the meantime, being a
dedicated but (at least according to my wrist
fitness tracker) a semi-sedentary columnist,
after a hard day of pushing words around, I
prefer exercising my biceps while occupying a
more substantial multi-legged stool at Charlie
Os or the Three Penny. At least then I know
if I wobble its the beer.
THE BRIDGE
Essay: The Halloween Edition

The Day I Kicked A Murderer
by Brianna Stallings
ccording to South Carolina serial killer Donald Henry Gaskins

(better known as Pee Wee because of his 54 frame), the first time
he ever heard his real name was in a courtroom. He was 15. Pee
Wee had other nicknames during his life: Junior Parrott, The Redneck
Charles Manson and infamously, The Meanest Man in America.
with the vengeful man who had hired him for the hit, Gaskins said, When
he plugs that son of a bitch up, it'll blow him on into Hell. The rhythm
of Pee Wees voice there reminds me of the way my paternal grandmother
talks, a pinched nasal drawl with strained upward inflections. It sounds
sharp and tinny, like the blade of a key chain pocket knife.
From the day of my birth in 1979, Ive been known by my middle name,
Brianna. Despite the two Ns, its pronounced with an ah in the second
syllable. Bree-AH-nuh. Ive said it out loud, the way its meant to be said,
every day of my life. Still, its constantly being shortened, lengthened and
of course, mispronounced. Bry-ann-nuh. Bree-ann-nuh. Bree-ah-ner. Its
enough to make anyone go a little mad.
Pee Wee. His nickname just sounds like something tiny, doesnt it?
Something precious and ultimately harmless. Like hes made of lead crystal,
a clinking trinket you toss to the floor again and again, just to see how many
times you can throw it before it shatters.
Like Pee Wee, I had nicknames when I was growing up. None too nice
ones, either. By the year of Gaskins death, I was every bit the dorky seventh
grader: a chubby bespectacled working class kid with lots of brains, little
money, a bad perm and a huge gap in my front teeth. The Ford Brahma
truck, named after the massive humpbacked Brahma bull, was popular
amongst my bullies parents. These details, combined with their belief that
I was ugly and that my name sounded like this word, led them to call me
Brahma Bull.
I was very rarely if ever known as Michelle, my first name. Very rarely, if
ever, did I want to be. There were already plenty of Michelles in the world,
just like there were plenty of Donalds. But in South Carolina in the early
1980s, the name Brianna was still unique. Yet unlike the punching bag
that Pee Wee became, I was Brianna, a wanted only child. Still, like him, I
needed to be seen, no matter what it took.
When youre an only child, even if youre wanted, youre usually alone. That
doesnt mean youre lonely, though. Not at all. In fact, you can find all kinds
of ways to make imagination work in your favor, to get into some petty
mischief and perhaps, to even convince yourself that what youre doing isnt
wrong. My petty mischiefs were often set against what could be described
as a macabre backdrop: mortuaries. Then again, I am the daughter of a man
who spent decades handling dead bodies.
Donald Henry "Pee Wee" Gaskins
The year that I was born, Pee Wee Gaskins was serving year three of a life
sentence for murder, one that had initially been a death sentence. Following my third birthday, that
sentence would be commuted back to death after Gaskins, then being held in a maximum security
prison, used explosives and a plastic cup to kill neighboring inmate Rudolph Tyner as part of a hired
hit. Pee Wee told Tyner that he wanted them to have their own way to talk, so he fed the bombbottomed cup and cord through the ventilation system between their two cells. Tyner was holding
the cup to his ear when Pee Wee detonated it. The entire left half of Tyners body erupted into a
bloody mangled mess. The last thing he heard through that speaker-cup before it blew his head
off, Gaskins later boasted, was me laughing.
Thought to be an impossible act in such a facility, this murder earned Pee Wee that prisonenviable title of The Meanest Man In America. Apparently the other, far more heinous crimes he
committed during his prolific career simply did not merit that name. During a recorded phone call
This was 1991 for me. A year before I gave a graphic class presentation on
the Manson Family murders. A year before I took to drawing dotted lines
across the insides of my wrists in ballpoint pen, with the words Cut Here
written underneath.
Permanently scarred by his own nickname, one that invited decades of

vicious bullying, Pee Wee Gaskins transformed into a sadistic misogynistic
sociopath, plagued by what he described as them aggravated and
bothersome feelings of rage, resentment and hatred. He was an exemplar
of the Napoleon complex who came to believe that his was a special mind that granted him
permission to kill.
Pee Wee Gaskins was executed by electrocution at 1:05 a.m. on Sept. 6, 1991, in the early hours
of my 12th birthday. By the time Pee Wee had reached that age, hed already formed The Trouble
Trio. Their shenanigans read like something straight out of A Clockwork Orange: an almost-feral
tangle of boys, gumming up the works of their neighborhood with burglaries and brutality, because
there was nothing better to do.
As an adult, Pee Wee was known around the South Carolina cities of Florence, Prospect and
Charleston for driving an old purple hearse with a sign in the back window that read We haul
anything, living or dead. He also boasted about having his own private cemetery, because I kill
Continued on next page
T H E B R I D G E
Dunbar Funeral Home. Courtesy of CoumbiaClosing.com
killed people, with a name like that of someone I used to watch on Saturday morning TV. I also
knew that he would be killed by Old Sparky on my birthday, a fact Id announced with feigned
annoyance to a horrified Social Studies class about a week before his death.
He had always been small for his size, but on this, the one and only occasion I met him, Pee Wee
weighed just under five pounds. Thats 130 pounds of son, husband, father and killer reduced by
the crematorium to 130 cubic inches of ash, or nine cups.
Unless youre from the Deep South or a serial killer aficionado, youre probably not going to
know about Pee Wee. Although I moved away from home two decades ago, the loyalist in me
becomes perversely territorial when I hear non-Southerners speak about Pee Wee. As a native South
Carolinian, it is obviously not something of which I am proud. Nonetheless, Gaskins story is one
that I feel we South Carolinians alone are entitled to tell. At the very least, I can share mine and Pee
Wees small, ridiculous gallows tale here.
But why? What does it say about me that I am willing to continue to maintain this most tenuous
of connections to a murderer? After all these years away from home, is this how I hope to be seen?
Is this my vintage hearse with a sign in the back window?
so many people I need a hearse to haul them. After all, why bother getting up to no good if you
cant be known for it?
In most pictures, Gaskins looks like he would have talked out of the right corner of his mouth, or
like he has a piece of chaw tucked in his bottom lip and he's just about to spit a venomous stream of
brown tobacco juice. Even after his sentencing, his smile was wily and remorseless; it translated to I
know something you dont know. His neighbors all thought he was lying until 1975, when officers
from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division exhumed the remains of enough bodies on
Gaskins Prospect land to earn him another title: the most prolific serial killer in state history.
By 1991, my father was an employee of the Dunbar family. The Dunbars owned several mortuaries
in Columbia, but its the Gervais Street location, in the heart of the city, that still looms large in
my mind. A Queen Anne Revival mansion, built in 1892 as a home for textile titan W. B. Smith
Whaley, the Gervais Street Dunbars was outfitted with a sprawling public entrance, a turret and a
bay window, and a multitude of barnacle-like awnings clinging to its shingled sides. Just behind the
street-friendly faade, there was a four-car garage with its own on-site gas pump, and a carriage house
converted into the body preparation area. An elevated walkway about the length of two limousines
connected the two structures. The crematorium was further out back.
Daddy worked weekend-long shifts there. That meant he had to sleep on-site in quarters above the
preparation room. Mama and I would go visit him after our weekend errands.
We were never allowed in the preparation room. Not once. Daddy said it was against OSHA
regulations. Mama didnt want to be in there anyway. She respected what my father did for a living,
but felt as though that respect was best maintained without her having to be up to her eyeballs in
it with him.
I, on the other hand, took the denial of access as a challenge. I would tiptoe through the waiting
lounge to peek around the door, hoping to see a corpse with a trocar in its carotid artery, its blood
being drained into an industrial sink.
We were allowed in the administrative office, though. Sometimes, if Daddy had a few moments to
spare, hed escort Mama and me into the front house to visit with the receptionist. A painting of the
funeral home at night, by South Carolina artist Blue Sky, greeted those who walked in through the
employee entrance. It was a caricature of a haunted house: gray sky dense with clouds, midnight blue
shadows, the epitome of comical menace. I stifled a laugh every time we walked in.
The bifocaled receptionist was there in the office, seated behind a dull gray metal desk, the afternoon
I met Pee Wee. Although it was the early 90s, she sported an awe-inspiring bouffant. I entered the
room with the small guarded smile I had in those days, careful not to reveal my gapped teeth. Still,
I was looking forward to asking after her, so much so that I didnt notice a small cardboard box
stowed underneath a chair. I walked into it, stumbled and blushed, then steadied myself against her
desk. Just a 6" x 6" x 5" box. Nothing big.
Better be careful where youre walking there, sweetheart, Daddy said over my shoulder. I could
hear him smirking. That theres Pee Wee Gaskins youre kicking.
My father often (figuratively) brought work home with him. Because of his profession, death was
just as common a topic of dinner conversation as my grades in school or the customers my mother
helped at her banking job. Gaskins name was one that Daddy had shared over supper. Yet despite
his own morbid curiosity, my father was gracious enough to spare his tween daughter the gory
details of Gaskins actions. At the time, all I knew was that Pee Wee was a monster because hed
P.O. Box 1143, Montpelier, VT 05601

Phone: 802-223-5112
Fax: 802-223-7852
Editor & Publisher: Nat Frothingham
Managing Editor: Carla Occaso
Design & Layout, Calendar Editor:
Marichel Vaught
Copy Editing Consultant:
Larry Floersch
Proofreaders: Garrett Heaney,
Brianna Stallings
Sales Representatives: Michael Jermyn,
Rick McMahan
Distribution: Tim Johnson, Kevin Fair,
Daniel Renfro
Editorial: 223-5112, ext. 14, or
editorial@montpelierbridge.com.
Location: The Bridge office is located at the
Vermont College of Fine Arts,
on the main level of Stone Science Hall.
Subscriptions: You can receive The Bridge
by mail for $50 a year. Make out your
check to The Bridge, and mail to The Bridge,
PO Box 1143, Montpelier VT 05601.
montpelierbridge.com
facebook.com/thebridgenewspapervt
Twitter: @montpbridge
Copyright 2016 by The Bridge
Brianna Stallings is a South Carolina native. After nearly 20 years in New Mexico, Stallings relocated
to Montpelier this past August. She is a full-time student in the MFA Writing & Publishing Program at
the Vermont College of Fine Arts.
THE BRIDGE
Creating a College: The Story of the Vermont College of Fine Arts

Continued from Page 1
What had been in Montpelier for almost 150 years a seminary
or a college on the hill could easily become a condominium
development.
opened an account, and told the bank to expect a wire of

$250,000. And the money arrived.
That got us up and running, Greene said. His next step was
to tell Union Institute that the College of Fine Arts was serious
about its intention to buy the campus.
Nor was there any guarantee that the college green would be
protected from development. And if the college shut down
and the campus was sold for development, what about the 100
college jobs?
Reaching Out to the Competition:

As Greene relates it, the nascent Vermont College of Fine Arts
was not alone in its bid to the Union Institute to purchase the
Montpelier campus.
Then, as VCFA President Greene observed, something else

could have happened, not to anyones liking the Montpelier
community could have lapsed into endless conflict and discussion
over a number of years in figuring out how to redevelop the site.
According to Greene, There were a number of developers

five or six prominent Vermont developers looking to buy
the campus. And serious enough to be measuring roofs, doing
inspections, and as he said, moving relatively quickly and we
had a crunch of time against us.
After the Panic:

In the aftermath of the panic, Greene remembered that earlier
moment when he suggested to Norwich University President
Richard Schneider that the college employees in Montpelier
ought to buy the Montpelier campus.
Most of the developers, Greene said, were interested in

condominiums. Some wanted to get the State of Vermont and
other tenants onto the campus to pay the bills. So they were
about a real estate investment, primarily, Greene said, but
certainly not a college.
At about the same time, Louise Crowley, Greenes academic

colleague and longtime director of the MFA program in Writing,
told him of a dream shed had: That we create a new college
called Vermont College of Fine Arts.
Her idea, together with the existing UVM blueprint, envisaged
the three MFA programs and the Montpelier campus that in
Greenes words became the idea for creating the College of
Fine Arts.
Remember, the new college had been incorporated in late May

2006. Then came the board development and the needed
fundraising and all through the summer the developers were on
the campus assessing the buildings and grounds and preparing
their proposals.
In all of this, whats important to remember is that the three

MFA programs continued. They never stopped even as Union
offered the campus for sale or when UVM put forward its
ultimately failed bid.
In August 2006, Greene was introduced to Bill Kaplan, who

lived locally and had commercial real estate experience. Kaplan
also knew how to do complex financing. Kaplan came aboard
at the College, as Greenes business partner in September 2006.
So as Greene said, We began talking about (a new College of

Fine Arts) internally and I said, I think we can do this. And I
said to the staff and faculty, This is something we can do. We
can take this independent and we can start a new college.
In his interview with The Bridge, looking back on the risks he was
prepared to take in starting a new college and this comment
drew a laugh Greene said, It was an odd combination of
naivete and hubris. I knew a few things about running colleges.
I knew nothing about starting one, or where we were going to
get the money, or how any of this was going to work.
In the vacuum created by the failed UVM bid, some Montpelier
people suggested, according to Greene, that the City take out
ads in The Chronicle of Higher Education and other higher ed
newspapers saying, We have a campus for sale. Come in and
buy it and give us a college.
At about this time, something very important happened, as
Greene put it, A very seminal moment for me now this was
around May 2006 there was a meeting downtown in the City
Council chambers. Mary Hooper, who was mayor at the time,
was there, and there were other concerned citizens who were
asking the question, What do we do about the college closing?
I stood up and gave a talk about how since 1993 I had worked
at the College in different capacities. I taught there. Id been an
administrator. Im a graduate. I thought there was the will and
energy within the community to create a new institution, take
it independent, have it be independent for the first time since
1972, which was the last time that decisions about the campus
were made on the campus.
Moving fast forward to reflect back on what ultimately
happened, Greene said, This is a Montpelier story because
everyone got behind it. It wasnt about me. Everyone got
behind it and someone said, What do you need? and I said,
The first thing I need is a lawyer. I need to incorporate. And
Gerry Tarrant was there and he raised his hand and said, Im
a lawyer, and I can do that for you. Gerry and I went down to
the Secretary of States Office, and we incorporated Vermont
VCFA Music Composition residency. Photo by Stefan Hard
Tom Greene. Photo courtesy of VCFA

College of Fine Arts, Inc.
Starting from Scratch:
Vermont College of Fine Arts, Inc. was incorporated in May
2006.
The address was my house, said Greene. And these were the
critical needs that Greene and others had to deal with.
Said Greene, We needed credibility. We didnt have any money.
We had an idea and a vision. We fortunately had a number of
graduates (from the three MFA programs) that were people of
real significance in the world and we began to reach out to them
myself, Louise, Jessica Lutz, the Program Director of our
Visual Arts program, we started to build up a board because we
knew we needed serious people in order to make it work.
The first call I made was to Harry Groome, who is a graduate
of the writing program and who was a longtime CEO of
SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals. I called Syd Lea who is a
Poet Laureate and also a one-time faculty member here. I called
a woman in New York whose husband had been a publisher of
The New York Times and who was a graduate of the visual arts
program. And people were saying, Yeah, well come on well
do this.
Greene also made a phone call to an alum whose identity, he
said, will remain anonymous. She was someone of significant
means. I called her up and told her I needed funding to get this
thing going, to save this campus and save these programs and
I didnt know how exactly much I needed. I assumed I needed
a phone and an office and attorneys and maybe an assistant
somebody who could help us out.
I called her up and she said, How much money do you need?
And I said, I need I need $250,000. And she called back
20 minutes later, and said, We can do it. Give me your bank
account information so I can wire the money. And I thought,
We dont even have a bank account. I didnt want to tell her we
didnt have a bank account.
So Greene went downtown to the Community National Bank,
Greene remembers a particularly critical even decisive

meeting with all the developers who were looking to buy the
campus in October 2006.
Greene said, One of our board members set it up. We all met
in a room. And I told them all about what we were trying to do.
We are trying to save these 100 jobs. Were trying to preserve the
campus as a college.
As Greene recalls, at about this time, I think it was November,
he said, that was when Union wanted the new college and any
developer to submit sealed bids.
As the meeting with developers continued, Greene said, We
dont exist to make money. We exist to fulfill a mission. Were
going to have to take on a whole lot of money. Were going to
take on a whole lot of debt. If there are six, seven bids on this
place, thats going to drive up the price and cost us more to do
it.
In closing, Greene said to the developers, Im determined
that this is going to happen, that were going to create a new
independent college on this campus that its going to happen.
Nothings going to stop us from that.
The meeting ended. Although Greene cant assert with
confidence why what happened did happen, he said, None
of the developers bid on the campus. Each one walked away
from it. We were the only ones left standing. We made an offer
of $10.75 million, the same offer UVM had made for the 33acre campus, 15 buildings, 250,000 square feet and three MFA
programs.
Getting the Financing & Getting Accredited
By November 2006, Union accepted the bid from Vermont
College of Fine Arts. It was the highest bid, said Greene, and
it was the only bid by an academic organization. I think there
was a separate bid for just the academic programs. I think (that
Union) had no choice but to take us seriously at that point.
Then Greene said, There were two big questions in front of us.
We needed money. And not just $10.75 million. We needed
VCFA Writing residency Photo coutesy of VCFA
T H E B R I D G E
faculty members who are at the top of their artistic practice

from all across the world. Not every leading artist might
choose to relocate to rural Vermont. And some of leading
artists live in LA or Tokyo or New York or London. Were
able to get them here to teach, said Greene. They can live
and work where they want to live and work. They can also
come here and work with students and go back home. Its a
huge advantage.
more like $13.75 million because we needed operating

capital to get up and running -- and create a college.
The second piece we also needed was accreditation,
Greene said. Because without accreditation, you cant offer
financial aid, you cant be an independent school. This
was a problem, because the three MFA programs had to
continue. They couldnt stop running.
Happily, this problem had a solution. According to Greene,
Now, we worked out a creative agreement with Union that
actually let us run the college before we owned it. So I was
actually running the institution in the middle of 2007. I was
running this college and the three MFA programs here
-- and I was an employee of Union Institute & University.
It was kind of like an expatriate government coming in and
running it on an interim basis while we worked through the
financing and the accreditation.
It would be hard enough at any time for an untested notfor-profit intent on opening a new, independent college to
secure $13.75 million in financing. But 2007 and 2008
were not just any time. As Greene remarked, We were a
brand new, non-profit trying to borrow $13.75 million in
the middle of the worst recession since the Great Depression.
Then, said Greene, The bond market collapsed. We thought we
had financing in place. There was a major bank that came and
told us, You dont have it.
At the same time Greene and others were hurrying to get
accreditation. Because we couldnt become an independent
college until we were at least a candidate for accreditation.
Thats a process that takes time, he explained. Youve got to
write a 150-page self-study. Youve got to have a team visit. You
have to go and testify in front of the commission in Boston
that accredits colleges in New England. And its not quick.
Fortunately we had Gary Moore, our founding academic dean,
to spearhead the effort.
Then there was the financing problem. We were trying to
put together our financing, trying to build a leadership team,
continuing to build a board of trustees. Then of course, the
financing that was thought to be in place was suddenly gone.
Speaking candidly, Greene admitted, We were in a panic
about what to do. Right about then, the
College went to Community National
Bank. But Community National said,
This is too big a deal for us. They had
never done anything on this scale. They
had never lent anybody $13 million.
The College and the Community
VCFA Master of
Arts in Teaching
in Art & Design
Education.
Photo by Stefan
Hard
Transforming the Campus
Perhaps the College is less known locally. But there are solid
signs that the community is beginning to be aware of whats
happening at the College. We have opened our residencies
and our experiences to the community, Greene said. We
have major events every year, such as the Vermont Book
Award this past September. We have events where we have
famous writers come in that Ive interviewed and weve gotten
as many as 600 people to those events, kind of extraordinary
for Central Vermont. So I think weve worked hard at trying to
become a cultural center for Central Vermont.
We also set up a process to raise money to transform the

campus to be a campus thats reflective of our mission of creating
a national center for education in the arts. About the campus,
Greene said, Its one of our greatest assets and in some ways,
also our biggest liability, because it was built for a 19th century
form of education.
Turing to the economic impact of the College locally, Greene

said, Ten years later, this college is a huge growth engine for
Montpelier and Central Vermont. Students and faculty are
having a direct economic impact with as much as a million
dollars a year being spent at restaurants, bars, bookstores such as
Bear Pond Books, and shops in downtown Montpelier.
Remarking on the campus, Greene said, Its a beautiful, historic

New England campus. Weve also done a ton of work to preserve
the history of this campus. Almost in wonderment, Greene
said, Would you believe this building College Hall?
Adding to this theme, he said about the college, Its a dynamic

place. Its judged every year as one of the best places to work in
Vermont. Were adding jobs, good-paying jobs five or six jobs
a year at the college its extraordinary, when most colleges are
shrinking.
brought leading artists in the world to this campus: To teach, to

be here, to guide these people as they move into their respective
fields.
Then he noted that the College has spent more than a million
dollars on College Hall over the past three or four years
preserving and maintaining it.
Beyond the Colleges stewardship role, Greene spoke
enthusiastically about some of the
positive changes to the college campus.
We have renovated Alumni Hall, an
old gymnasium that was barely used
into one of the great, multi-use spaces in
Vermont, he said. Then he remarked
on the Louise Crowley Center the
first new building on this campus since
1967.
Were the fastest growing
college in Vermont. In June

2008, we had a $5 million
operating budget with 212
students. Were now a $12
million operation with 420
students. Weve grown 85
percent in eight years.
But it didnt end there with Community

National Bank Community National
stayed involved and Greene said,They
were fantastic and wanted to work
with us, and we put together a team
of banks. The Vermont Economic
Development Authority (VEDA) played
a key role. The U.S. Department of
Agriculture guaranteed the debt. U.S.
Senator Patrick Leahy helped. So did
Gov. Jim Douglas. In the end, Union
also helped by financing $3 million of the debt.
In conclusion, Greene said, We were able to get the $13.5

million.
And Greene got more good news, this time about accreditation
from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the
same organization that accredits Middlebury College and the
University of Vermont.
We became the fastest college in the 125-year history of New
England Association to get accreditation.
According to Greene, In June 2008, we became the first new
(higher education) institution in Vermont in a generation.
Greene remembers June 23, 2008 as he sat for a full day in a law
office in Burlington, signing documents that spanned an entire
conference table. A new college had been born.
Adding Programs:
According to Greene, We started out with the idea of Save
Campus, Save Jobs and it quickly grew into an idea of becoming
a national center for education in the arts here in Montpelier.
So the question in front of us was, How do you do that?
His answer was, We needed to be bigger. We needed more
programs and more students. If we were going to be a national
program for education in the arts, we needed to offer programs
that were reflective of this. And so that led first to the creation of
a Music Composition and a Graphic Design program and then
we added a film program. We followed with a Master of Arts
in Teaching Art & Design, and our first full-time residential
program in Writing & Publishing.
So the College went from three programs to eight. The College
also focused on its national reputation. Said Greene, We focused
hard on getting the highest quality of academic programs. We
When he was asked if people in the local community are as

aware of the college as they might be, Greene said, We sit up
on a hill here. We have built a strong reputation nationally
in the fields that we offer. But we are less known locally. Its
a slow process. Then he added, I think its hard for people
to come to a realization that things are lively here.
Turning to the achievement as a whole,

he said, Ten years later, were growing,
thriving, and I think were making as
big an impact on the arts nationally in
this country as any graduate college.
Greene cited these statistics, Were the fastest growing college in

Vermont. In June 2008, we had a $5 million operating budget
with 212 students. Were now a $12 million operation with 420
students. Weve grown 85 percent in eight years.
As the interview neared its end, Greene said expansively, I go
back to one of my favorite quotes, a quote from thinker and
writer and former U.S. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, who
said, 'If you want to build a great community, start a college, and
wait for 300 years.'"
I really think weve done that in 10 years, Greene said.
Im astonishingly proud of the amount of work thats been
accomplished by so many people for this place and what we
are.
When he elaborated on this point,

Greene said, Let me give you two
examples. He mentioned the National
Book Award for Childrens Literature
and said, In every year since our inception except for one year
weve had at least one of the four finalists that have come from
VCFA. Some years weve had two two of the four finalists. So
if youre looking at where the next great childrens writers are
coming from theres a strong chance that some of these people
are coming from VCFA.
Turning quickly to his second example, Greene discussed the
colleges graphic design program. Its already making its mark.
Said Greene, Its in the top 10 in the country. The other graphic
design programs in New England that are on the list are Yale
and the Rhode Island School of Design, both of which have
been around forever.
Speaking in more general terms, he said,I think you are seeing
students coming through here and faculty being attracted to
teach here who are going out and making an immediate cultural
impact. And not too many schools can say that.
Many things account for the Colleges success in looking back
over 10 years. But possibly the Colleges teaching model makes
a strong contribution to that success. Said Greene, Its the
faculty-student relationship. Its in the things that support the
education.
Most of the students at the College of Fine arts live someplace
else and visit the College for residencies lasting 7 to 10 days.
These are periods of concentrate face-to-face learning and
interaction.
No, said Greene, were not saddled with athletic teams and
fancy dining halls, fancy dormitories. Our work is built on the
teaching relationship between established and emerging artists
and how they work together.
The Colleges teaching model offers distinct advantages. One
such advantage is that the College of Fine Arts can attract
Appreciating Bill Kaplan
s part of the interview with Tom Greene, he took

a moment to acknowledge his partner of 10 years,
Bill Kaplan, who left the College at the beginning
of October.
Speaking about Kaplan, Greene said: Bill provided a
tremendous service in starting the college and I couldnt
have done it without him. He was a partner in that effort.
But I will say that institutions, when theyre built right, are
always bigger than individuals. That goes for me, too. If
I decided to leave next year, which Im not, but if I were,
after running it for 10 years, the college would be fine. I
think thats the beauty of institutions: That when theyre
built right, theyre built for the long haul. They are not the
reflections of any single person or even several people. They
are part of a larger narrative that goes on.
Im very grateful to Bill for his friendship, his leadership,
and his support for me in getting this place up and
running. I think Bill wanted to do something different and
I totally support that. There will come a time when that
happens to me, too. But not yet.
I still have some more work to do here.
THE BRIDGE
Sympathy for the Poor

Just because you have what you want today
doesnt mean you will tomorrow.
avid Budbill moved to Vermont in

building a house there that he lived i
health prompted him and his wife, t
a condo in Montpelier. Born in 1940 in Cle
life included being a track star in high schoo
Seminary in New York City, teaching at Li
Black college in Pennsylvania), laboring on
myriad musical instruments, working for
tending a large vegetable garden, cutting his
bike, and writing a staggering amount of cre
with the written word, with storytelling and
matter with astonishing clarity and simplicit
On a whim you could be homeless, on the street,

out there in the cold and wind.
Better you should have some sympathy for the poor,
since you might be one of them tomorrow.
David Budbill was an alchemist. He took bits and pieces

of people and through his skill with dialogue and stagecraft
brought them to life. Working with him on our A Fleeting
Animal: An Opera from Judevine, as he adapted a number
of his Judevine characters and created new ones, was an
absolute joy and an experience I'll treasure for the rest of my
life. The emotional depth, fleeting joys and seasonal panoply
of life in Vermont contained in David's poetry continue to
inspire me and bring out my best as a composer. He was also
my friend and I miss him greatly.
Composer Erik Nielsen
The actors I worked with looked
forward with pleasure to working with
David. We came to know that he often
would spend vast amounts of time at
rehearsals, especially when plays were
in development, listening. If a line came
out naturally in rehearsal that differed
from his written line, he could consider
whether the mistake worked better than
the original line, and, occasionally,
change it. It didnt happen all that often,
but his ego DID allow it to happen.
Mainly, I remember his personal
generosity and warmth, which helped
make us all want to ensure that we
got his intent right when performing
his work. He was generous to actors,
welcoming and appreciating their work.
It always felt safe working with David.
He listened, and he gave people room.
Bob Nuner, Montpelier, actor
During his prolific career David authored te

two novels, a collection of short stories, two
the libretto for an opera composed by Erik N
which toured Vermont to rave reviews in 2
he also loved to perform and did so in man
prisons in Vermont to avant-garde performan
often with bassist William Parker and other
Keillor frequently read Davids poems on
David was the recipient of many awards and
Photo by
Lois Eby
Photo by Orah Moore
Rem
Mid-October
The Fall Almost Nobody Sees
Everybodys gone away.
They think theres nothing left to see.
The garish colors flashy show is over.
Now those of us who stay
hunker down in sweet silence,
blessed emptiness among
Almost all the leaves

are down. Rain.
Clouds make a fog
just above the trees.
The world colder

more empty every day.
My favorite
time of year.
red-orange shadblow
purple-red blueberry
copper-brown beech
gold tamarack, a few
remaining pale yellow
popple leaves,
sedge and fern in shades
from beige to darkening red
to brown to almost black,
and all of this in front of, below,
among blue-green spruce and fir
and white pine,
all of it under gray skies,
chill air, all of us waiting
in the somber dank and rain,
waiting here in quiet, chill
November,
waiting for the snow.
Happ
At m
In the
Head
I met David Budbill in the late 1970s at a poetry reading picnic at Oakledge Park in South Burlington.
He was standing on the rocks on the shore with the Adirondacks at his back speaking the words of the French
Canadian logger, Antoine. It was a magical and revelatory experience for me, because, as a 6th generation
Vermonter, I knew this man and a poetry reading was the last place I expected to run into him. David
brought all of his heart and soul and writing skill to the task of speaking in an authentic voice. The collection
of characters he created in the made-up town of Judevine are so true to life they are larger than life.
Yang
There
Who
Ive l
doing
How
Working with David and presenting his work on the stage has been one of my greatest joys. Plays come and
go, but Davids work gives voice to Vermont in a way that will live forever.
Kim Bent, Founding Artistic Director, Lost Nation Theater
A family photo by Matt Hogan
The Center for Leadership Skills

BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Lindel James coaching & consulting

Taking You from Frustration to Enthusiasm
802 778 0626
lindel@lindeljames.com
lindeljames.com
T H E B R I D G E
membering David Budbill
n 1969, settling in Wolcott and

in for 45 years until his declining
the painter Lois Eby, to move to
eveland, Ohio, Davids colorful
ol, attending Union Theological
incoln University (a historically
a Christmas tree farm, playing
r racial and economic justice,
s own wood, riding a mountain
eative material. David had a gift
d with striking the heart of the
ty.
en books of poems, seven plays,

picture books for children, and
Nielsen A Fleeting Animal,
2015. David loved to write but
ny venues from schools and
nce spaces in New York City
musical collaborators. Garrison
NPRs A Writers Almanac.
d honors in his lifetime.
Stillness, O Stillness
Life in rural Vermont provided much of the inspiration for Davids work,
be it cutting wood, putting a vegetable garden to bed, a birds song, or the
struggles of working folks. He was keenly attuned to the worlds suffering
and had a passion for social justice, particularly issues of race and class,
that infused much of his work. David lived his life to the fullest aware
of his relative privilege but determined to enjoy and savor what he had,
particularly the simple things: a neatly stacked woodpile, a good meal and
lively conversation, a cup of tea. He lived with incredible love for this life
for humanity and for the natural world around him.
After several years of struggle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a rare
form of Parkinsons Disease, David died peacefully at home on Sept. 25.
He is survived by his wife, Lois, his daughter, Nadine Budbill and her
partner, Mia Roethlein, and his granddaughter, Riley Budbill-Roethlein.
He was predeceased by his son, Gene Budbill. In the wake of his death,
his family, friends and fans are left with a profound hole but his legacy
will live on, in the words he has left behind and in the indelible mark he
has made on Vermont and beyond. A public event to celebrate Davids life
and work is planned for 2017.
Low clouds and gray, cold and spitting snow,

more like the first of November than October first
except for the geese going over low all morning.
Their frantic cries of leaving fill me with a quiet joy.
The world gets emptier, more barren, and I more alone.
Stillness, O stillness, this damp calm of autumn, this
relinquishing, giving in, gray turning toward winter,
sweet melancholy, welcoming, opening, acceptance,
receiving, this embrace of the quiet and the dark.
All of Us
by Nadine Budbill
Out of the undifferentiated Tao

come the ten thousand things:
the bug in the birds mouth,
the bird in the tree,
the tree outside the window,
the window beyond the chair,
the chair in the room,
the man in the chair
y.
who has just risen from the chair

and walked across the room
to look out the window
at the bird in the tree
with the bug in its mouth.
See how all of us,
at our own and different speeds,
return to the Tao.
Oh, let us all
sing praises now for all of us,
so briefly here.
We lost a great poet, one who understood Vermont and

the human condition. His poetry was accessible: sometimes
raw, sometimes filled with humor. He was PoemCitys
Kick-Off Poet in April 2014. Davids message was that
our society doesnt value poets as indicated by the amount
of money poets are paid. In another PoemCity offering
David and Charlie Barasch reprised a poetry and fiction
reading they had given in 1989 at Bear Pond Books. The
reading was called, Baseball with Budbill and Barasch.
Im not sure who had more fun, the audience or David
and Charlie. When the library instituted the Cabin
Fever Spelling Bee, an adult spelling bee, David readily
agreed to be on the Writers Team. David Budbill was
generous with his time, talent and books. We will miss
him.
Rachel Senechal, Program and
Coordinator, Kellogg-Hubbard Library
Development
Central Vermont has lost a loyal friend and an

important literary voice.
David Budbill wrote poetry and plays that tapped
into and expressed the essence of northern Vermont so
deeply that they became universal. His rural characters,
Antoine, Grace, Tommy and others, are quintessential
Vermonters, but they are also vivid human beings
with the same sort of hopes, fears, triumphs and
disappointments experienced by all of us. Likewise, his
Judevine Mountain poems were expressions of his
own life, but they continue to resonate deeply with the
lives of everyone who has read and loved his poems.
In short, Davids poetry and plays accurately and
profoundly depict rural Vermont his place that is
also our place. They are, in fact, universal, and will
enrich the life of Vermont and the larger world forever.
Photo by Steve Solberg
Tom Slayton
py Life
my desk all morning.

e woods all afternoon.
ded home now through the yellow light.
David left us all those beautiful, plain, musical, deeply

meaningful poems and plays. But we will miss his voice, his
presence, his sensibility and musicality, and his attention to
social justice. His generosity of spirit and his encouragement of
other poets will shine as examples to those who are continuing
their work. He was and is our Vermont People's Poet.
g Wan-li said,
es enough to eat.
o needs a lot of money?
led a happy life

g what I want to do.
w could I be so lucky?
Ellen Lovell
Photo by Lois Eby
Davids living friendship had a profound effect on my life.

His death to date has affected me beyond what I might have
imagined.
Rusty DeWees
SAVE THE DATE
The Bridge Presents a Variety Show

Featuring Our Area's Young People!
Saturday, November 12 at Bethany Church
Stay tuned for more information.
To participate in the show,
email marichel@montpelierbridge.com
For a list of books by David Budbill

and more information, please visit
www.davidbudbill.com
THE BRIDGE
Granite City Groove
Foodrepreneurs Start Old

Soul Farm
by Joshua Jerome
his past summer the Barre Farmers Market began anew with a new location and day,
mostly because the old guard of the markets past simply gave up on the notion of having
a market. Still, not all had lost hope. Barres newest and youngest farm, Old Soul Farm, is
located just down the hill from the Booth Bros. facility on Bridge Street. The young farm resides
on 13 acres of property, but currently has just one acre in cultivation with some interesting plans
in the works. I met with Matt Systo, one of the farm managers recently and he gave me a tour.
What once was the old dairy barn of Norman and Madelyn Booth has now been converted into
a farm store, chicken coop and worm farm. With an abundance of tomatoes, peppers, squash
and other coveted garden produce, Systo explained how they had to double the size of the farm
store after their first year to accommodate more produce. Off in a separate area of the barn were
the 58 laying hens that produce around four dozen eggs a day. The healthy looking hens worked
the ground for worms that were grown just in the next room in a giant tub. Why I asked? The
worms eat and break down the food scraps in the tub leaving behind rich compost and the worms
are fed to the hens. Our system is based from permaculture, Systo said.
Systo learned about permaculture while attending the University of Vermont Farmer Training
Program in 2014. It was there when he met his partner, Kim Rich, who co-manages the farm
and both are proponents of sustainable agriculture through permaculture practices. As we toured
the farm, Systo pointed out to me a trench that had been dug along the contour of the sloping
hill and the fruit trees that had been planted. Systo explained that the swales capture water
and diverge it to the roots of the fruit trees providing both a natural storm water barrier and
protection against times of drought. An additional 50 apple trees are planned to be planted next
year. They even have plans to re-establish a pond for irrigation and grow crops such as watercress
on top.
In only their second year of production, the two young farmers have begun the process of
becoming a certified organic farm and would like to get bigger, but not much bigger. Their
goal of staying as a very small agricultural enterprise is intentional and modeled after a farm
in Quebec. With just a couple acres in production, it is easily managed by Systo and Rich
alone without the help of employees and expensive farm equipment. The farmers have a small
community supported agriculture program under 20 people and the addition of Square to their
business has allowed them to be flexible with their community supported agriculture and farm
store customers.
As we make our way through autumn, Systo and Rich are preparing for next years crops
amending the soil, cleaning up their greenhouses and patiently waiting for the remaining
tomatoes and watermelon to ripen. Systo and Rich believe their small scale agricultural system is
important to the community and the world. Its not just producing food they feel is important,
but taking an active role in their community by helping to bring back the Barre Farmers Market,
reaching out to local businesses to partner with and providing learning opportunities for young
and old alike on their farm. Systo and Rich embody the youthful entrepreneurial spirit that is
helping grow the local economy while providing the marketplace with alternative and sustainable
sources of food. Im grateful for their commitment to the land and community and no doubt,
we are better off to have them.
The author is director of The Barre Partnership.
T H E B R I D G E
Legends Never Die
by Harper Wimble
never like any other to walk the earth, ever.
ide together, die together. Forever have each others

backs, no matter what. That was the vow we made.
What we had went deeper than best friends. Went
deeper than brothers. Its almost like we were connected by soul.
Always on the same page, never mad at each other. We would
always tell people we're a package deal. You couldnt have one
without the other. Everyone knew it was Seam and Harp. It
actually came to the point where people would call me Seamus
and him Harper.
I met Seamus the first day of seventh grade. I guess you could
say it was love at first sight, as we all sat together in one big
room. There were probably 40 of us or so lined up in rows
sitting at tables. I looked around at everyone and quickly
realized that it was going to be six long years ahead of me. One
person caught my eye though, Seamus. I could tell I was going
to be good friends with him. He was the only one that seemed
cool to me. I could tell, there was something about him. How
he carried himself, the type of clothes he wore. The kid had
style and it wasnt hard to tell. Our teachers proceeded to bring
us outside. They told us to line up by birthday, but the catch
was we couldnt say a word. As kids started to figure it out and
fall into place, Seamus and I ended up right next to each other.
Six days apart. We were born in the same week. We quickly
introduced ourselves and we became close, immediately. From
that day forward we only grew closer and closer. Never in a
million years could I picture life without Seamus by my side.
It was kinda like a superhero and his sidekick, except better
because we were both superheroes.
Seventh grade was no doubt the best year of my life. I became
close with Seamus, got into girls, had the best spring break weve
ever had. I accumulated some of the best memories of my life.
That year was like a whole new life for me. I was only 12, but I
experienced more in that one year than I think I will any other
year of my life. From then on I thought that life could only
get better. I had found a brother, someone who meant more to
me than a best friend ever could. I found someone who truly
understood me and everything I was about. Not only was he
into the same things, but he was willing to explore and discover
new things with me. I can honestly say there is no better feeling
in the world than knowing that you can do anything you can
imagine, but have someone by your side that you can trust with
your life. Never once did we have an ounce of doubt in each
other, because we knew no matter how hard things got, we
could do it. Together.
Seventh grade was a year never to be matched, but eighth
grade was a close second. I think that middle school is more
transition years between grade school and high school than it
was learning years. It gave Seamus and I a little room to have
some real fun. We took advantage of those years. As our school
tradition goes, at the end of every eighth grade year, your whole
class goes to Washington, D.C. for a week. A week away from
school running around D.C with all of our best friends
seemed like a blast. Seam didnt see it like that though. We had
paper work we had to fill out, who we wanted our chaperones
to be, who we wanted as our roommates. I felt devastated when
Seamus told me he didnt want to go.
My grandparents live in D.C. Ive been there like a million
times. Why would I want to go again? he would always say.
Me and our other buddies tried to explain that it would be
different this time because hed be going with us, and that the
trip wouldnt feel complete without him. It was getting close
to the time of the trip and Seamus still hadnt committed to
coming. It wasnt until only a few weeks before the trip that we
finally convinced him to come. Luckily for me, the person who
was organizing the roommates, the chaperones and planning
the whole trip out was my cousin, Sue Verchereau. The second
August 11, 2016. A date burned into my memory forever. It was

arguably the nicest day of the summer, weather wise. Eightyfive degrees, not a cloud in the sky. Perfect day for the water. I
had hit up Seamus and our friend Erhan to go swimming at
a local pond. They were both down. I had met them both in
town and we headed out. On our way we decided to stop by
our friend Harry's house to see if he wanted to come with us.
Luckily, he was home and was able to come. We packed the car,
and we left Harry's house to go to the pond. We walked to the
water laughing and talking as we normally do. The day seemed
perfect. Almost as if nothing could go wrong. We all jumped
into the water as soon as we laid our eyes on it. I had asked
Harry if he wanted to swim out a little way.
I will in a sec, I want to try to do a backflip off the dock real
quick, he said with a smile.
Alright, alright, I replied.
Seamus was next to us, so I asked him.
Harper Wimble, left, and his best friend Seamus Beall

Seamus told me he was in, I ran as fast as I could to her office
on the other end of the middle school to beg and plead with Sue
to let Seamus and I be roommates. She told me that shed think
about it. Nobody had found out who any of their roommates or
group mates were going to be, yet. For the next few days of that
week, Seamus and I both begged Sue every second we could.
Until finally one day, as I was chasing Sue down one of the
long hallways screaming her name, when I got close she swung
around and looked me in the eyes and shouted,
Yes Harper, you two can be roommates!
Ahhhhh yes! Thank you so much Sue, youre the best! I
exclaimed with joy. I was pumped. I immediately ran to find
Seam.
Bro, we got it. Were roommates, son!
Hell yeah, Harp, thats what Im talking about.
We felt so cool knowing that we were going to be roommates,
and no one else knew who they were going to be with.
Time for the trip soon came around. We were fired up to get
out of school for a week, and tear it up in D.C. together. After
the long bus ride we finally got down there. We put our stuff
in our room and headed out to do some touring of the city. We
quickly realized that we didnt care much for the monuments
and museums, but that we were going to look for girls from
other schools. We were having a blast.
A few nights in we were scheduled to go to the Kennedy Center
to watch a play and have dinner. We had to be dressed up. Seam
and I had obviously planned our outfits before we had left for
the trip. We both had grey vests. We decided that blue shirts
and grey vests would look fresh. In our rooms we got all laced
up, checked each other out, made sure the outfits were on point.
Sure enough, looking good. They had set it up so we would
all walk out two by two to the busses, and get our pictures
taken all dressed up. We knew we looked good. Shades on and
everything. Stunnas. When it came time for Seam and me to
walk out, we got the walk on. You know the strut. The swagger
that topped the whole look off. I remember walking next to
Seamus, feeling invincible. Almost like we couldnt be touched.
Thats when the picture was snapped. They say a picture is
worth a thousand words. This one was worth more, far more.
If someone asked me to sum up our relationship, I wouldn't say
anything. I would just hand them the picture of us side by side,
and immediately they would know. Seam and Harp, a team
Yeah for sure, Seam said.

So we did. We swam out a little ways, not too far. Nothing that
we haven't ever done before. As we swam, we were talking and
laughing about what the upcoming school year was going to
be like. I can recall it like it happened yesterday. I remember
looking into his eyes, seeing his amazing smile he always had
on his face. As he held his fist out for me to bump in between
strokes, I did. We then proceeded back towards the dock. I
had turned to my back for a stroke or two, and when I looked
back to where Seamus had just been, he wasnt there. Just a ring
pushing outward from where he had submerged. I looked next
to me to see where he would come up. I thought he had just
gone under for a second. I waited and waited. I then yelled to
Harry and Erhan who were standing on the dock,
Yo, I dont think Seamus can hold his breath this long.
They immediately jumped in. We frantically dove for the next
45 minutes to try to find him, but we never did. On that day
Seamus never came up. He passed, fearlessly. I know he did.
Seamus was the most fearless kid I knew. He was never afraid
of anything. The kid would never back down no matter what. I
was the last person he touched, last person he talked too. I don't
think it would have been right if it had happened any other way.
Not a day goes by where I dont think of Seamus. In a way I feel
like on that hot summer day in August, I lost part of myself.
It still doesnt make sense. I dont think it ever will. I've always
heard people say life isnt fair. I never truly understood that,
until that day. I had always felt on top of the world. Its true,
you dont know what you have till its gone. Its still hard to
believe what happened. At times, it feels like I am just waiting
for Seamus to come back around, like he's gone on a vacation
and we're all just waiting for him to come home.
In my six years of knowing Seamus he taught me more than

anyone else ever could. The way he lived everyday to the
fullest, the way he carried himself. Most of all, everything he
said, he meant. There will never be anyone like Seamus, such
a pure soul, someone you simply can not replace. The passing
of Seamus has made me stronger. I have to be strong for Seam.
He wouldnt let me be weak. As I move on in my life, I hope
to fulfill some of the characteristics that Seamus possessed.
How he lived everyday to the absolute fullest. How he left a
positive impact on everyone he came across I hope I can use
his characteristics as he did, to become the best that I possibly
can. I hope they can help and further me with whatever path I
choose to take.
Seamus, until I see you again, stay down for me. Much love
brotha. Forever ya boy, Harp.
THE BRIDGE
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On Over 20 Years of Business!
T H E B R I D G E
Community Events
Events happening
October 20 November 5
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20
Kellogg-Hubbard Storytime at Calais Elementary

School. Songs, stories, and fingers plays. Every child
goes home with a book. 9:45 a.m. Calais Preschool
Room, check in at Calais Elementary School lobby.
Free. 223-4665. outreachkhl@kellogghubbard.org
Introduction to Qi Gong. Well cover some
background and then learn a set of movements that
you can practice at home. Move, breathe, feel great!
67:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain Co-op, Montpelier.
Free.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about
Fruit Trees but Were Afraid to Ask. Join nursery
owner Nicko Rubin as he shares know-how that can
ensure success with fruit trees, from soil preparation
and planting to restoring old trees. A Transition
Town Montpelier program. 6 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard
Library, Montpelier.
On Vermont PBS: Candidates for US House. 89
p.m. Live on air and on vermontpbs.org/live
FRIDAY, OCTOBER, 21
Calendar of Events
Meadow on the Goddard College campus, Plainfield. William F. Buckley Jr. Panel discussion and Q&A
follows. 79 p.m. Johnson State Collge, Bentley Hall,
Suggested donation: $3; $10 per family. Please leave
Room 207. Free. http://www.magpictures.com/
pets at home. 454-8500. earthwalkvermont.org.
bestofenemies/
Fur Fest. Hors doeuvres, delicious desserts by Birchgrove Baking, piano music by Michael Arnowitt
and an exciting live and silent auction. All proceeds
benefit the shelter animals. 58 p.m. The Hayloft,
The Debt Project. Photographer Brittany Powell
179 Guptil Road, Waterbury. $35. www.centralverwill discuss her project on personal debt. 911 a.m.
monthumane.org
Johnson State College, Stearns Student Center Cin-
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26
Play and Learning: Pacem School 10th Anniversary Celebration. Includes a talk by noted educational
psychologist Peter Gray entitled Play and Learning:
What Exactly is Play and Why is It Such a Powerful
Vehicle for Learning? Fun free activities, 2304:30
p.m.; Woodbelly Pizza for sale, 46 p.m.; talk, 6:30
p.m. Free cake and ice cream precedes talk. Vermont
College of Fine Arts, College Hall Chapel, 36 College St., Montpelier. Suggested donation for talk
$10. 223-1010. lexi@pacemschool.org. http://pacemschool.org/10th-anniversary
Saw-whet Owl Banding. Exciting opportunity to
view these common, yet seldom-seen, birds. Follow
signs from North Branch Nature Center parking lot
to the banding station and be sure to dress warmly.
7 p.m. NBNC, 713 Elm St., Montpelier. Donations
welcome. 229-6206. northbranchnaturecenter.org
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23
Lecture at T.W. Art Gallery. Artists and the Works

Progress Administration with Artist Billy Brauer.
Learn about the WPA and its history and the imagery of the time. 7 p.m. 46 Barre St., Montpelier.
Movement Based Birth Preparation. Birth preparation with a focus on movement and breath support.
Presented by Amy Lepage. 35 p.m. 23 Summer St.,
Barre. Free. http://www.goodbeginningscentralvt.
org/the-birthing-year.html
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22
MONDAY, OCTOBER 24
NAMI Vermont Mental Illness & Recovery Workshop. Discusses mental illnesses, coping strategies
and other NAMI programming. Hedding Methodist
Church, 40 Washington St, Barre. Must register to
attend. Call for more details: 800-639-6480.
Champlain Lake Watch. The Champlain flyway
is a corridor for tens of thousands of waterfowl that
migrate through Vermont each spring and fall. Well
search the Champlain Valley for ducks, geese and
others. 7:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. North Branch Nature
Center, 713 Elm St., Montpelier. Free for teens. 2296206. northbranchnaturecenter.org
Work Hike with Green Mountain Club. All abilities
needed and welcomed. Various distances. Bring
lunch and water, wear sturdy boots, work clothes
and gloves. Tools supplied. Meet at Montpelier High
School at 8 a.m. Contact Andrew Nuquist, 223-3550
or trails@gmcmontpelier.org.
Safely Dispose of Prescription Drugs. Safely dispose unused and expired prescription drugs. Pills and
capsules only. No liquids or syringes. 10 a.m.2 p.m.
Washington County Sheriffs Dept, 10 Elm St.,
Montpelier
Kinney Drugs, 800 US Rte. 302, Berlin
Northfield Police Dept., 110 Wall St., Northfield
Kinney Drugs, 80 S. Main St., Waterbury
Vermont State Police, 1080 Rt. 2, Middlesex
Barre City Police Dept., 15 Fourth St., Barre
Montpelier Police Dept., 1 Pitkin Ct., Montpelier
Star Wars Day at Bear Pond Books. Stories, trivia
and special guests. Costumes encouraged. 11 a.m.1
p.m. Bear Pond Books, 77 Main St., Montpelier.
bearpondbooks.com
Grief & Bereavement Support Group. Open to

anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one.
The group focuses on learning together about coping
with grief, with the intention of receiving and offering support. 67:30 p.m. CVHHH, Granger Rd.,
Barre. Free. 223-1878.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25
Walk North Montpelier with Green Mountain

Club. Easy. 3.5 miles. This relaxed afternoon walk
takes Factory Street, Tucker, Lightening Ridge, and
Gray Roads. Bring water and snack. Meet at: Department of Labor, next to Montpelier bike path. Contact
Reidun and Andrew Nuquist, 223-3550.
Here I Am Now: Partnered Practices of Listening
and Support. With Amanda Franz, Somatic Movement Educator. A collective practice of deepening
connection to yourself and another. Come with a
partner to presence, share, listen, discover, support.
67:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop community
room. Free.
Parlor Game Night. Join leaders Anne Ferguson and
Nancy Schulz for a round of improv, theater, and
parlor games that will generate creativity, spontaneity
and fun. 6:308:30 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity
Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier. Free. Pre-registration required: 223-2518
The Hidden Half of Nature: Microbial Ecology.
Geologist David R. Montgomery and biologist Anne
Bikle, authors of The Hidden Half of Nature: The
Microbial Roots of Life and Health will present
exciting new information about the microbial ecologies in the soil and in our bodies. 79 p.m. Haybarn
Theatre at Goddard College, Pitkin Rd., Plainfield.
By donation.
EarthWalk Fall Community Day & Harvest Celebration. Join us for Earth Oven Pizza, games, nature
crafts, songs, pumpkin carving, fire by friction, wild
The Best of Enemies Documentary. Explores a
food, stories and more! Children under 12, please
bring an adult. 11 a.m.3 p.m. Earthwalk, Hawthorn televised series of debates between Gore Vidal and
ema. Free. http://thedebtproject.net/
The Brain: How Does It Work and How Can We

Preserve It? With Neurologist Robert Hamill, M.D.
New understandings of brain function and dysfunction plus evolving research techniques and strategies
for improving brain health as we age. An Osher
Lifelong Learning Program. 1:30 p.m.; doors open 1
p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St.,
Montpelier. $5 suggested donation.
Environmental Author Jonathan Mingle. Mingle
will read from his book and answer questions about
environmental writing, climate issues and black carbon. 4 p.m. Norwich University, Kreitzberg Library
Multipurpose Room, Northfield. Free.
Lyme Disease Prevention & Biomagnetic Pair
Therapy. With Alicia Feltus, Health Coach & Biomagnetic Practitioner. Learn how the use of diet and
herbs helps to support the immune system and prevent Lyme Disease. Learn about Biomagnetic therapy
to re-establish normal cellular milieu through the
use of pairs of magnets. 5:306:30 p.m. Hunger
Mountain Coop community room. $8 members; $10
non-members. RSVP: info@hungermountain.coop
Intro to Ham Radio Workshop. Join David Hale
and David Ferland with their fascinating ham radio
equipment and learn about the art of the ham radio.
All ages. 7 p.m. Jaquith Public Library, School St.,
Marshfield. David Ferland: 454-1177.
Defying the Nazis: The Sharps War. Screening &
panel discussion. Ken Burns Defying the Nazis: The
Sharps War is an account of a daring rescue mission
that occurred on the precipice of World War II. 7
p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27
It's in the Records: Shedding Light on a Middlebury Cold Case. Can archival records solve a 1935
Middlebury cold case? Presentation by state archivist
Tanya Marshall. 68 p.m. Vermont State Archives
and Records Administration, 1078 US Rte 2,
Middlesex. Free. 828-2308. archives@sec.state.vt.us.
https://www.sec.state.vt.us/archives-records/vhrab/
archives-month.aspx
Winter Wellness. With Shona R. MacDougal, RH
(AHG). We will talk about herbs, foods and supplements to boost your immune system. 67:30 p.m.
Hunger Mountain Coop community room.
Author Talk: John Jean "Synchronicity Bleue"
Author John Jean discusses his experimental novel
written for both English readers and readers of
French, at the same time. 7 p.m. Kellogg-Hubbard
Author Robin MacArthur. MacArthur reads from
her book Half Wild. 7 p.m. Johnson State College,
Stearns Student Center Cinema. Free.
On Vermont PBS: Candidates for US Senate.
7:309 p.m. Live on air and on vermontpbs.org/live
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28
Better Hearing for Healthier Aging What To

Do Next. This workshop is a continuation of the
previous discussion on hearing loss by reviewing the
next steps for diagnosis and treatment. 11 a.m.noon.
For more event listings

and event details visit
montpelierbridge.com
Performing Arts
THEATER, STORYTELLING,
COMEDY
Through Oct. 22: Stowe Theatre Guild
presents The Rocky Horror Show. Due to the
mature themes, only adult tickets will be sold.
Shows run Wed.Sat., 7:30 p.m. Stowe Theatre
Guild, 67 Main St., Stowe. $25. 253-3961.
stowetheatre.com
Through Oct. 23: Lost Nation Theater

presents Sylvia. A modern comedy with bite, a
middle-aged couples world is turned on its head
when the husband brings home an engaging
canine running loose in Central Park. Shows
run Thurs.Sun. Showtimes 7:30 p.m. Thurs.
Sat. and 2 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Montpelier City
Hall, Main St., Montpelier. $1530. 229-0492.
Lostnationtheater.org
Oct. 21: Stroke Yer Joke. Sign up in advance to
try five minutes of your best open-mic stand-up
comedy before a live audience 8 p.m. Espresso
Bueno, 248 N. Main St., Barre. Free. 479-0896.
events@espressobueno.com. espressobueno.com.
Oct. 2122: Vermont Vaudeville presents,
Vaudeville, Eh? A celebration of all things
Canadian. With professional music, comedy
and circus stunts. Oct. 21 and 22, 8 p.m.; Oct.
22, 2 p.m. Hardwick Town House, Church St.,
Hardwick. Adults $15; kids $8. Matinee: adults
$12; kids $6. 472-1387. www.vermontvaudeville.com
Oct. 2123: "Cosi Fan Tutte." Echo Valley
Community Arts presents Mozart's hilarious
farce, "Cosi Fan Tutte" second weekend of
performances at The Plainfield Opera House.
Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30
p.m. and Sunday's performance is at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at the door. Adults
$25, Seniors $23, Students $20, Kids. $10. For
reserved seating call 225-6471 or e-mail naomiflanders@gmail.com
Oct. 27: Extempo. Locals tell short-format,
first-person, true stories live on stage without
any notes or reading. 810 p.m. Bridgeside
Books, 29 Stowe St., Waterbury. $5. 244-1441.
storytelling@extempovt.com. extempovt.com
Oct. 28: The Official Blues Brothers Revue.
The only Blues Brothers show sanctioned by
Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi. 8 p.m. Barre
Opera House, 6 N. Main St., Barre. $3237.
476-8188. Barreoperahouse.org
Oct. 28: Bueno Comedy Showcase. A wide
range of talented standup comedians, from
here and away, working longer sets. 8:30 p.m.
Espresso Bueno, 248 N. Main St., Barre. $6.
479-0896.events@espressobueno.com. espressobueno.com.
Oct. 29: The Poe Spooktacular. Halloween for
grown-ups the whole family can enjoy. Costume
contests, desserts, dance party with 21 piece LC
jazz band. 8 p.m. Montpelier City Hall, Main
St., Montpelier. $20 advance; $25 day of show.
lostnationtheater.org
PAG E 2 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 N OV E M B E R 2 , 2 016
Calendar of Events
Live Music
VENUES
Bagitos. 28 Main St., Montpelier. Open mic every
Wed. Other shows T.B.A. bagitos.com.
Oct. 20: Shane Cariffe (1950s) 68 p.m.
Oct. 21: Stefani Capizzi (folk/country/blues) 68
p.m.
Oct 22: Irish Session with Sarah Blair, Hilari Farrington, Benedict Koehler, Katrina VanTyne, Bob
Ryan and others, 25 p.m.
Oct. 23: Southern Old Time Music Jam, 10 a.m.1
p.m.
Oct. 27: Italian Session, 68 p.m.
Oct. 28: Squirrels Crackers (country/bluegrass/
Cajun) 68 p.m. 6-8pm.
Oct. 29: Irish Session with Sarah Blair, Hilari Farrington, Benedict Koehler, Katrina VanTyne, Bob
Oct. 30: Jennings & McComber (Celtic roots) 11
a.m.1 p.m.
Nov. 3: Colin McCaffrey and Friends, 68 p.m.
Nov. 5: Irish Session with Sarah Blair, Hilari Farrington, Benedict Koehler, Katrina VanTyne, Bob
Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St.,

Montpelier. Free. 223-2518.
Contemplative Dance Practice (CDP). With
Abbi Jaffe. Bring your meditation practice into
motion and explore embodied awareness. 6:30
7:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop community
room. Free for members; $2 non-members.
RSVP: info@hungermountain.coop
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29
Work Hike with Green Mountain Club.

Duxbury. Rain Date: October 30, Sunday All
abilities needed and welcomed. Various distances.
From the new Winooski River footbridge, work
on Long Trail South to Bamforth Ridge Shelter.
Bring lunch and water. Wear sturdy boots, work
clothes and gloves. Tools supplied. Meet at Montpelier High School at 8 a.m. Contact Andrew
Nuquist, 223-3550 or trails@gmcmontpelier.org.
Local Author Series: F.F. McCulligan. Fantasy
author F.F. McCulligan will give a reading of
his new release, "The Height of Pillar" as well as
deeper insight into his work through concept art,
deleted chapters, and original hand written pages
of the manuscript. 10:30 a.m. Kellogg-Hubbard
One Stop Country Pet Supply Halloween
Party. Bring your pets for trick or treating fun.
Noon3 p.m. Pet costume judging starts 2 p.m.
1284 US Rte. 302, Berlin. 479-4307. onestopcountrypet.com
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1
"Introduction to Acupuncture" Lecture and

Acupuncture Clinic. Lecture by Kerry Boyle
Charlie Os World Famous. 70 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 223-6820.

Every Mon.: Comedy Caf Open Mic, 8:30 p.m.
Every Tues.: Godfather Karaoke, 9:30 p.m.
Oct. 20: Ladybeast, Seax, Hessian (metal) 9 p.m.
Oct. 21: Abby Jenne & Hard Livers (soul rock) 6
p.m.; The Pilgrims & Faux in Love (rock) 9 p.m.
Oct. 28: Abby Jenne & Hard Livers, 6 p.m.; Casio
Bastard (funk) 9 p.m.
Oct. 29: Zombie Prom w/ DJ Disco Phantom
(dance) 10 p.m.
Oct. 30: Harvest Party w/ Some Hollow (Americana) 3 p.m.
Oct. 31: Tsunamibots / Let's Go (surf/punk) 9 p.m.
Espresso Bueno. 248 N. Main St., Barre. 479-0896.

Free/by donation unless otherwise noted. events@
espressobueno.com. espressobueno.com.
Oct. 22: Bird Full of Trees (rocky-tonk) 8 p.m.
Positive Pie. 22 State St., Montpelier. 229- 0453.
positivepie.com.
Oct. 21: Congo Sanchez with Boomslang (future
world/hip-hop)10 p.m. $10
Oct. 22: Electrolads (electronic) 10 p.m.
Whammy Bar. 7 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 7:30 p.m. 31
County Rd., Calais. Thurs., Free.whammybar1.com.
Oct. 21: Big Hat No Cattle
Oct. 22: Bob Hannan and Friends
SPECIAL EVENTS
6 N. Main St., Barre. $3237. 476-8188. Barreoperahouse.org
Oct. 28: Halloween Party with Strangled Darlings. Prizes for best costume. 79 p.m. Fresh Tracks
Farm Vineyard & Winery, 4373 VT-12, Montpelier.
http://freshtracksfarm.com/upcoming-events/halloween-party-strangled-darlings/
Oct. 30: Music for Barns. Music and literature

inspired by rural life. With M.T. Anderson, Gregory
Maguire and the Aurea Ensemble. 4 p.m. The
Chapel at Vermont College of Fine Arts, College St.,
Montpelier. $25 advance; $30 at door. bearpondbooks.com
Oct. 28: Jazzyaoke. Sing the standards backed by a

live six-piece jazz band; all lyrics provided. 7:30
10:30 p.m. La Puerta Negra, 44 Main St., Montpelier. $5. 613-3172. info@wooo.tv. wooo.tv
Oct. 2830: Scrag Mountain Music: Halloween Caberet. Scrag begins its 2016-17 season featuring the
seminal work of 1913Arnold Schoenbergs Pierrot
Lunaire. To highlight the piece emerging out of the
traditions of melodrama and Weinmar Cabaret, the
concert will begin with alternations of Paul Schoenfields Caf Music and cabaret songs of Schoenberg
and American master William Bolcom.
Oct. 28: 7:30 p.m., Unitarian Church, 130 Main
St., Montpelier
Oct. 29: 7:30 p.m., First Light Studios, 34 Pleasant St., Randolph
Oct. 30: 7:30 p.m., Warren United Church, Main
St., Warren
Oct. 28: The Official Blues Brothers Revue. The
only Blues Brothers show sanctioned by Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi. 8 p.m. Barre Opera House,
Jenni will be followed by an acupuncture clinic,

10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Treatment takes place in a
group setting. Treatments are all auricular (outer
ear) acupuncture and are about 30 minutes each.
You must arrive by noon to have a treatment. No
appointment necessary. Open to everyone 50
and older. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58
Barre St., Montpelier. Free lecture; $10 treatments. 223-2518
Panel Discussion on Vermont Elections. With

Secretary of State Jim Condos, Mark Johnson,
senior reporter and editor at VTDigger.org and
Susan Clark, co-author of Slow Democracy:
Rediscovering Community, Bringing Decision
Making Back Home. 78:30 p.m. Montpelier
Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier.
Free. 223-2518
New Solar Options & Heating for a Resilient

Home and Grid. With Joel Rhodes from SunCommon. Go solar with no upfront cost and a
fixed monthly payment that mirrors and replaces
your utility bill. 67:30 p.m. Hunger Mountain
Coop community room. Free.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3
Lecture at T.W. Art Gallery. Devin Coleman,

Vermont State Architectural Historian will discuss New Deal murals and building around the
state. 7 p.m. 46 Barre St., Montpelier.
NOVEMBER 4
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 FRIDAY,
Christmas Sale. Nov. 45. Annual Santa WorkGrief & Bereavement Support Group. Open to
anyone who has experienced the death of a loved
one. The group focuses on learning together
about coping with grief, with the intention of
receiving and offering support. 1011:30 a.m.
CVHHH, Granger Rd., Barre. Free. 223-1878
Childrens Book Author Leda Schubert

Valentia to Hearts Content: The Story of
the Transatlantic Telegraph Cable. In 1866,
after 10 years of costly and dangerous work, this
eighth wonder of the world was completedthe
first Internet. An Osher Lifelong Learning Program. 1:30 p.m.; doors open 1 p.m. Montpelier
Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St., Montpelier.
$5 suggested donation.
Classic Film Series at Jaquith Public Library.
Introduction by Rick Winston. Discussion follows. 7 p.m. Jaquith Public Library, School St.,
Marshfield. Call library for film title: 426-3581.
THE BRIDGE
shop Sale for the Waterbury Center Community

Church. Homemade crafts, baked goods and
more. 95 p.m. Rt. 100 (next to Cold Hollow
Cider Mill), Waterbury Ctr.
Scientific Aromatherapy. Learn how to navigate the many misconceptions of the aromatherapy world. We will sample and learn about the
top 10 aromatherapy uses and benefits. 5:307
p.m. Hunger Mountain Coop community room.
Free.
Slide Show: Mount Katahdin and the
Hundred Mile Wilderness. Green Mountain
Club Montpeliers membership/social meeting
featuring a slide show by Morgan Irons and
Alan Paschell. In 2014 they hiked the Hundred
Mile Wilderness from Abol Bridge to Monson,
Maine. All are welcome. 7 p.m. T W Wood
Gallery, 46 Barre Street, Montpelier. publicity@
gmcmontpelier.org.
Oct. 30: Emily Sunderman and George Matthew

Jr. Emily Sunderman, violinist, and George Matthew
Jr., organist, will perform works by Vivaldi, Muffat,
Handel, J.S. Bach, Respighi and Brahms. 4 p.m. St.
Marys Episcopal Church, 203 S. Main St., Northfield. Free; donations accepted. 485-9199. dweggler@
gmail.com
Nov. 4: Elle Carpenter. Carpenter celebrates the CD
release of Sincerely Yours. Featuring Colin McCaffrey and Jonny Morrow. Potluck 5 p.m.; music
6:30 p.m. Maple Corner Community Center, Calais.
Sliding scale $515. Free for children. 454-7303.
Nov. 4: The Lark Quartet. Program includes
Debussy String Quartet, Five Songs by Gershwin arranged for string quartet, Chinese folk songs written
for string quartet by Zhou Long, and Dvoraks String
Quartet in G, #13, opus 106. A greet-the-artists
reception follows. 7:30 p.m. Chandler Music Hall,
Main St., Randolph. $36. 728-6464. Chandler-arts.
org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5
Walk the Stowe Bike Path with Green Mountain Club. Moderate. 3-4 miles. Enjoy a late
fall walk on the bike path, followed by lunch at
McCarthys. Contact Mary Smith, 505-0603 or
Mary Garcia, 622-0585 for meeting time and
place.
Winter Clothing Drive. Free good quality
clothing is available at the Old Schoolhouse
Common gym. If you have good quality clothes
to donate, please drop them off at the library
during the week before the event. 9 a.m.1 p.m.
Jaquith Public Library, School St., Marshfield.
426-3581.
Christmas Sale. Nov. 45. Annual Santa Workshop Sale for the Waterbury Center Community
Church. Homemade crafts, baked goods and
more. 93 p.m. Rt. 100 (next to Cold Hollow
Cider Mill), Waterbury Ctr.
Viva Las Artes! River Arts fall fundraiser,
featuring a delicious dinner, intriguing art
installations and an exciting live auction. Held
at the River Arts Center in Morrisville. Call
802-888-1261 or visit RiverArtsVT.org for more
details or to register. 69 p.m.
ORE November Fundraiser and Silent Auction. Quebecois Music + Cajun Food = Ooh
La La. The night will be filled with music, appetizers, member art and the biggest bonanza of
silent auction items EVER. 69 p.m. All held at
the TW Wood Gallery, 46 Barre St., Montpelier. $20 advanced tickets; $25 at the door.
Contact Heather or Marci: 661.8959, info@
orexchange.org
For more event listings and event details

visit montpelierbridge.com
T H E B R I D G E
Visual Arts
EXHIBITS
Through Oct. 23: The Female Eye. Featuring the

oil paintings of Candy Barr, who has been described
as a true master of color. The Bundy Modern, 361
Bundy Road, Waitsfield. 583-5832. info@bundymodern.com. www.bundymodern.com
Through Oct. 23: The Many Faces of Dog. Montpelier-based artist and dog lover Maayan Kasimov pays
homage to Lost Nation Theaters production of Sylvia
with a collection of dog portraits that will hang in
their lobby gallery. The exhibit is open an hour before
curtain times for Sylvia and during the show: Thurs.Sun. Montpelier City Hall, Main St. The Exhibit
is free. There is a fee for attending the production.
229-0492.lostnationtheater.org
Through Oct. 28: Elizabeth Nelson, Symbolic
Landscapes. Oil paintings inspired by the ancient
Chinese divination text I Ching, or Book of
Changes, and are largely based on northern New
England Landscapes. The Spotlight Gallery, 136
State St., Montpelier. http://www.vermontartscouncil.org/about-us/spotlight-gallery.
Through Oct. 30: The SHE Project part 1. An
Interactive installation that explores the female image, self-worth, sexual power, and personal branding
in the social media age. The University of Vermonts
Living, Learning Gallery, 233 Commons Bldg., 633
Main St., Burlington. http://www.maryadmasianart.
com/projects/6150167. For parking info.: http://www.
uvm.edu/llcenter/visitorparking.pdf
Through Oct. 31: Herbert A. Durfee Jr. Black and
white photographs of Burlington physician Dr. H.A.
Durfee Jr. (1924-2015). These images were taken during the early 1950s, while Dr. Durfee was stationed
at the United States Air Force base in Wiesbaden,
Germany where he practiced Ob/Gyn. The HiVE
Summer Portal Show. The lobby (portal to) The
HiVE at MiddleGround (home of Red Hen Baking
Company), 961 Rte 2, Middlesex. (802)595-4866.
thebuzz@thehivevt.com. www.thehivevt.com
Through Oct. 31: Joyce Kahn. Pastels. City Center,
89 Main St., Montpelier.
Through Nov. 1: Michael Smith, Hungry? Vibrant
and tasty yet low calorie acrylic paintings.
Morse Block Deli, 260 N. Main St., Barre. Exhibit
curated by Studio Place Arts. For info: www.morseblockdeli.com or www.studioplacearts.com
Through Nov. 1: f/7 Photography, Simplicity.
Seven photographers from central Vermont with new
photographic work based on the theme of simplicity.
The Gallery at River Arts is located upstairs in the
Robert C. Folley Hall at the River Arts Center, 74
Pleasant St., Morrisville. 888-1261. www.RiverArtsVT.org.
Send your event listing to

calendar@montpelierbridge.com
or visit montpelierbridge.com
Do What You Do Best.
Bookkeeping Payroll Consulting
802.262.6013 evenkeelvt.com
Calendar of Events
Through Nov. 5: Chuck Bohn and Frederick

Rudi, Two Views from Hollister Hill. While living
on the same hill for many years, the two painters
have developed highly contrasting styles in their
art while somehow still remaining friends. Jaquith
Public Library, Marshfield. For info: 802-426-3581
orjaquithpubliclibrary@gmail.com or visit www.
jaquithpubliclibrary.org
Through Nov. 5: Fall Exhibits at Studio Place Arts.

SPA, 201 N. Main St., Barre. Gallery Hrs: Tues-Fri:
11AM-5PM, Sat: Noon-4PM. 479-7069. www.
studioplacearts.com
Main floor gallery: Rock Solid XVI: Giuliano
Cecchinelli. A lifetime show that includes a variety
of sculptures, models and sketches by this master
sculptor who was trained in Carrara, Italy as a
young boy, and who has devoted his artistic career
to working from granite in Barre.
Second floor gallery: In Our Hands An
environmental art and architecture exhibit by
artist and designer Shannon Lee Gilmour using

post-consumer plastic.
Third floor gallery: November and Equinox to Solstice Paintings and Daily Sketches by Paul Calter
Through Nov. 6: Land and Light and Water and

Air. Annual juried landscape exhibition, featuring
over 100 landscape paintings by New England artists
in the Main Gallery at Bryan Gallery, Jeffersonville.
bryangallery.org
Through Nov. 11: New Deal Art. Large exhibit of the
Works Progress Administration (WPA) Federal art
collection along with a satellite show at the Central
VT Medical Center. Closing reception: Nov. 10,
57 p.m. T.W. Wood Art Gallery, 46 Barre St.,
Montpelier. 262-6035
Through Nov. 13: Pat Steir: Drawings & Prints
with video by Molly Davies. Prints and drawings.
Video of Pat Steir by Stowe artist Molly Davies will
accompany the work. Gallery hours: noon5 p.m.,
Wed.Sun. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St.,
Stowe. 253-8358. mail@helenday.com. helenday.com

Through Nov. 13: Sally Gil, Intergalactic Current.
Collaged paintings. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond
St., Stowe. director@helenday.com. 253 8358
Through Dec. 9: Paletteers of Vermont Fall Art
Show. Aldrich Public Library, Milne Room, 6
Washington St., Barre.
Through Dec. 30: Shedding Light On The Working Forest. Paintings and poetry by visual artist
Kathleen Kolb and poet Verandah Porche. Vermont
Supreme Court Gallery, Montpelier.
Through Dec. 30: Mary Admasian, Shadowlands.
Paintings, assemblages and sculptures, mixed-media
paintings are created on birch panels. Her application
technique of spray-paint, acrylic paint, graphite, cold
wax, colored pencil, and watercolor pencil materials
creates a surface that layers the visual space and imagery of each painting. Pavilion Building, 109 State St.,
Montpelier. http://MaryAdmasianART.com
THE BRIDGE
For more event listings and event details visit montpelierbridge.com
Weekly Events
ARTS & CRAFTS
Beaders 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.
Drop-in River Arts Elder Art Group. Work
on art, share techniques and get creative with
others. Bring your own art supplies. For elders
60+. Every Fri., 10 a.m.noon. River Arts Center,
74 Pleasant St., Morrisville. Free. 888-1261.
riverartsvt.org.
BICYCLING
Open Shop Nights. Volunteer-run community

bike shop: bike donations and repairs. Wed., 46
p.m.; other nights. Freeride Montpelier, 89 Barre
St., Montpelier. 552-3521. freeridemontpelier.org.
BOOKS & WORDS
Lunch in a Foreign Language. Bring lunch and

practice your language skills with neighbors.
Noon1 p.m. Mon., Hebrew; Tues., Italian;
Wed., Spanish; Thurs., French. Kellogg-Hubbard
Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. 223-3338.
English Conversation Practice Group. For
students learning English for the first time. Tues.,
45 p.m. Central Vermont Adult Basic Education, Montpelier Learning Center, 100 State St.
223-3403.
Ongoing Reading Group. Improve your reading
and share some good books. Books chosen by
group. Thurs., 910 a.m. Central Vermont Adult
Basic Education, Montpelier Learning Center,
100 State St. 223-3403.
BUSINESS, FINANCE,
COMPUTERS, EDUCATION
One-on-One Technology Help Sessions. Free

assistance to patrons needing help with their
computers and other personal electronic devices.
30 min. one-on-one sessions every Tues., 10
a.m.noon. Waterbury Public Library, 28 N.
Main St., Waterbury. Free. Registration required:
244-7036.
Personal Financial Management Workshops.
Learn about credit/debit cards, credit building
and repair, budgeting and identity theft, insurance, investing, retirement. Tues., 68 p.m.
Central Vermont Medical Center, Conference
Room 3. Registration: 371-4191.
FOOD & DRINK
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),
4:305:30 p.m.
Lunches for Seniors. Mon., Wed., Fri., Noon.
Twin Valley Senior Center, 4583 U.S. Rt. 2, E.
Montpelier. $4 suggested donation. 223-3322.
twinvalleyseniors.org.
Feast Together or Feast To Go. All proceeds
benefit the Feast Senior Meal program. Tues. and
Fri., noon1 p.m. Live music every Tues., 10:30
11:30 a.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58
Barre St., Montpelier. Seniors 60+ free with $7
suggested donation; under 60 $9. Reservations:

262-6288 or justbasicsinc@gmail.com.
Capital City Farmers Market. 50+ vendors
including more than 30 farmers. Every Sat.
through Oct. 29, 9 a.m.1 p.m. 60 State St.,
Montpelier. montpelierfarmersmarket.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Turning Point Center. Safe, supportive place

for individuals and their families in or seeking
recovery. Daily, 10 a.m.5 p.m. 489 North Main
St., Barre. 479-7373.
Sun.: Alchoholics Anonymous, 8:30 a.m.
Tues.: Making Recovery Easier workshops,
67:30 p.m.
Wed.: Wits End Parent Support Group, 6 p.m.
Thurs.: Narcotics Anonymous, 6:30 p.m.
Bone Building Exercises. Open to all ages. Every
Mon. and Wed.. 7:30 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 10:40
a.m. Every Fri.. 7:30 a.m. and 10:40 a.m. Twin
Valley Senior Center, 4583 U.S. Rte. 2, E. Montpelier. Free. 223-3322. twinvalleyseniors.org.
Tai Chi for Seniors. Led by trained volunteers.
Every Mon. and Fri., 12 p.m.; Tues. and Thurs.
1011 a.m. Twin Valley Senior Center, 4583
U.S. Rte. 2, E. Montpelier. Free. 223-3322.
twinvalleyseniors.org.
Living Strong Group. Volunteer-led group.
Sing while exercising. Open to all seniors.
Every Mon., 2:303:30 p.m. and every Fri.,
23 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58
Barre St., Montpelier. Free. Register: 223-2518.
msac@montpelier-vt.org.
Sex Addicts Anonymous. Mon., 6:30 p.m. Bethany Church, 115 Main St., Montpelier. 552-3483.
Type 2 Diabetes Self-Management Program.
Education and support to help adults at high risk
of developing type 2 diabetes adopt healthier
eating and exercise habits that can lead to weight
loss and reduced risk. Every Tues., 10:3011:30
a.m. Kingwood Health Center Conference
Room (lower level), 1422 Rt. 66, Randolph. Free.
Register: 728-7714.
Overeaters Anonymous. Twelve-step program for physically, emotionally and spiritually
overcoming overeating. Two meeting days and
locations. Every Tues., 5:306:30 p.m. and Sat.,
8:309:30 a.m. at Episcopal Church of the Good
Shepherd, 39 Washington St., Barre. 249-3970.
Every Mon., 5:306:30 p.m. at Bethany Church,
115 Main St., Montpelier. 223-3079.
Tai Chi Classes for All Ages. Every Tues. and
Thurs., 1011 a.m. Twin Valley Senior Center,
Rte. 2, Blueberry Commons, E. Montpelier. Free.
223-3322. twinvalleyseniors@myfairpoint.net
The Rockinghorse Circle of Support. Opportunity for young women and children to meet
once a week for friendship, good conversation and
fun. Facilitated by a licensed alcohol and drug
counselor and another person with child and family background. Topics reflects on how substance
abuse, whether it's ours or someone else's, affects
our decisions and lives. Child care provided. Every
Wed. through June 8. 9:3011:30 a.m. Hedding
United Methodist Church, 40 Washington St.,
Barre. 479-1086 or 476-4328.
Weight Loss Support Group. Get help and support on your weight loss journey every Wed., 67
p.m. Giffords Conference Center, 44 S. Main St.,
Randolph. Free. No registration required. Open to
all regardless of where you are in your weight loss.
testing. Wed., 25 p.m. 29 State St., Ste. 14

(above Rite Aid), Montpelier. Free and anonymous. 371-6224. vtcares.org.
NAMI Vermont Connection Recovery Support Group. For ondividuals living with mental
illness. Every Fri., 34 p.m. Another Way, 125
Barre St., Montpelier. 876-7949. info@namivt.
org
KIDS & TEENS
The Basement Teen Center. Safe drop-in space

to hang out, make music, play pool, ping-pong
and board games and eat free food. All activities
are free. Mon.Thurs., 26 p.m., Fridays 3-10
p.m. Basement Teen Center, 39 Main St., Montpelier. BasementTeenCenter.org
Read to Clara. Sign up for a 20-minute slot and
choose your books beforehand to read to this
special canine pal. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135
Main St., Montpelier. Sign up ahead: 223-4665
or at the childrens desk. kellogghubbard.org.
Story Time and Playgroup. With Sylvia Smith
for story time and Cassie Bickford for playgroup.
For ages birth6 and their grown-ups. We follow
the Twinfield Union School calendar and do not
hold the program the days Twinfield is closed.
Wed., 1011:30 a.m. Jaquith Public Library, 122
School St., Marshfield. Free. 426-3581.
jaquithpubliclibrary.org.
Story Time for Kids. Meet your neighbors and
share quality time with the pre-schooler in your
life. Each week well read stories and spend time
together. A great way to introduce your preschooler to your local library. For ages 25. Every
Thurs., 10:30 a.m. Cutler Memorial Library, 151
High St., Plainfield. 454-8504. cutlerlibrary.org.
Lego Club. Use our large Lego collection to
create and play. All ages. Thurs., 34:30 p.m.
Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier. Free. 223-3338. kellogghubbard.org.
Drop-in Kinder Arts Program. Innovative
exploratory arts program with artist/instructor
Kelly Holt. Age 35. Fri., 10:30 a.m.noon.
River Arts Center, 74 Pleasant St., Morrisville.
888-1261. RiverArtsVT.org.
Teen Fridays. Find out about the latest teen
books, use the gym, make art, play games and if
you need to, do your homework. Fri., 35 p.m.
Jaquith Public Library, 122 School St., Marshfield. 426-3581.
Musical Story Time. Join us for a melodious
good time. Ages birth6. Sat., 10:30 a.m. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier.
Free. 223-3338. kellogghubbard.org.
p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre

St. 223-2518.
Barre Rock City Chorus. We sing songs from
the 60s80s and beyond. All songs are taught by
rote using word sheets, so ability to read music is
not required. All ages welcome; children under
13 should come with a parent. Every Thurs.,
6:308:30 p.m. Church of the Good Shepherd,
39 Washington St., Barre.
Gamelan Rehearsals. Sun., 79 p.m. Pratt Center, Goddard College. Free. 426-3498. steven.
light@jsc.edu. light.kathy@gmail.com.
RECYCLING
Additional Recycling. The Additional Recyclables Collection Center accepts scores of hardto-recycle items. Mon., Wed., Fri., noon6 p.m.;
Third Sat., 9 a.m.1 p.m. ARCC, 540 North
Main St., Barre. $1 per carload. 229-9383 x106.
For list of accepted items, go to cvswmd.org/arcc.
RESOURCES
Onion River Exchange Tool Library. 80 tools

both power and manual. Wed., 46 p.m.; Sat.,
911 a.m. 46 Barre St., Montpelier. 661-8959.
info@orexchange.com.
SOLIDARITY/IDENTITY
Womens Group. Women explore important

issues and challenges in their lives in a warm and
supportive environment. Facilitated by psychotherapist Kathleen Zura. Two different group
meetings: every Mon., 5:307:30 p.m. and every
Wed., 34:30 p.m. 138 Main St., Montpelier.
324-4611. Insurances accepted.
Rainbow Umbrella of Central Vermont, an
adult LGBTQ group, meets every other Tuesday,
5:30 to 7:00 pm, at the Montpelier Senior
Center. For specifics, write toRUCVTAdmin@
PrideCenterVT.org
Bowling. Rainbow Umbrella of Central Vermont, an adult LGBTQ group, bowls at Twin
City Lanes on Sunday afternoons twice a month.
For dates and times, write to RUCVTAdmin@
PrideCenterVT.org
SPIRITUALITY
Christian Science Reading Room. You're invited

to visit the Reading Room and see what we
have for your spiritual growth. You can borrow,
purchase or simply enjoy material in a quiet
study room. Hours: Wed., 11 a.m.7:15 p.m.;
Thurs.Sat., 11 a.m.1 p.m. 145 State St.,

Montpelier. 223-2477.
A Course in Miracles. A study in spiritual

transformation. Group meets each Tues.,
Mad River Valley Youth Group. Sun., 79 p.m.
78 p.m. Christ Episcopal Church, 64 State
Meets at various area churches. Call 497-4516 for St., Montpelier. 279-1495.
location and information.
MUSIC & DANCE
Barre-Tones Womens Chorus. Open rehearsal.

Find your voice with 50 other women. Mon., 7
p.m. Capital City Grange, Rt. 12, Berlin. BarretonesVT.com. 552-3489.
Dance or Play with the Swinging Over 60
Band. Danceable tunes from the 1930s to the
1960s. Recruiting musicians. Tues., 10:30 a.m.
noon. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58
Barre St., Montpelier. 223-2518.
Christian Counseling. Tues. and Thurs.

Daniel Dr., Barre. Reasonable cost. By appt.
only: 479-0302.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.
For those interested in learning about the
Catholic faith, or current Catholics who
want to learn more. Wed., 7 p.m. St. Monica
Church, 79 Summer St., Barre. Register:
479-3253.
Deepening Our Jewish Roots. Fun, engaging text study and discussion on Jewish
Monteverdi Young Singers Chorus Rehearsal.
spirituality. Sun., 4:456:15 p.m. Yearning
New chorus members welcome. Wed., 45 p.m.
Montpelier. Call 229-9000 for location and more for Learning Center, Montpelier. 223-0583.
information.
info@yearning4learning.org.
Wits End. Support group for parents, siblings,

children, spouses and/or relationship partners of
someone suffering with addiction whether it is
to alcohol, opiates, cocaine, heroin, marijuana or
something else. Every Wed., 68 p.m. Turning
Point Center, 489 N. Main St., Barre. Louise:
279-6378.
Piano Workshop. Informal time to play,

refresh your skills and get feedback if desired
with other supportive musicians. Singers and
listeners welcome. Thurs., 45:30 p.m. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 58 Barre St.,
Montpelier. Free; open to the public. 223-2518.
msac@montpelier-vt.org.
HIV Testing. Vermont CARES offers fast oral
Ukelele Group. All levels welcome. Thurs., 68
SPORTS & GAMES
Roller Derby Open Recruitment and

Recreational Practice. Central Vermonts
Wrecking Doll Society invites quad skaters age 18 and up. No experience necessary.
Equipment provided: first come, first served.
Sat., 56:30 p.m. Montpelier Recreation
Center, Barre St. First skate free. centralvermontrollerderby.com.
YOGA & MEDITATION
Christian Meditation Group. People of all

faiths welcome. Mon., noon1 p.m. Christ
Church, Montpelier. 223-6043.
Zen Meditation. With Zen Affiliate of
Vermont. Wed., 6:307:30 p.m. 174 River
St., Montpelier. Free. Call for orientation:
229-0164.
Shambhala Buddhist Meditation. Group
meditation practice. Sun., 10 a.m.noon;
Tues., 78 p.m.; Wed., 67 p.m. New location: Center for Culture and Learning, 46
Barre Street, Montpelier. Free. 223-5137.
montpeliershambala.org.
Sunday Sangha: Community Ashtanga Yoga.
Every Sun., 5:407 p.m. Grateful Yoga, 15 State
St., 3F, Montpelier. By donation.
T H E B R I D G E
Secretary of State Jim Condos

Addresses Election Cybersecurity
MONTPELIER In light of recent stories about cyberattacks on election databases in
Arizona and Illinois, Secretary of State Jim Condos said he wants voters to be aware of the
work he and his office have done to protect Vermont elections and reassure them their votes
and voter information are safe.
Said Condos, As Vermonts chief elections officer, election integrity is among my highest
priorities. This includes the security of our election information and systems. The recent
news about hackers going after elections data comes as no surprise to us. In fact, weve been
anticipating these kind of cyber threats for some time now and began preparing for them
years ago.
O C TO B E R 2 0 N OV E M B E R 2 , 2 016 PAG E 2 3
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Condos continued, I want Vermont voters to know that we are well prepared and that we have
taken precautionary steps to safeguard our elections systems.
According to Condos, The Secretary of States Office was the first state agency to undergo
a thorough cybersecurity assessment, including penetration testing for all data/systems.
Furthermore Condos said that all elements of the elections management system, including the
statewide voter checklist, have undergone extensive reviews and testing for vulnerabilities to
cyber threats, including those of the type described in an FBI alert to state election officials.
He further remarked that in response to the recent FBI alert, the Secretary of States Office
initiated a complete analysis of its elections system to search for any attacks from the specific
sources identified by the FBI. After a thorough review, no abnormal activity was found.
About rigged elections and Russian attacks he said, It is understandable that people can
become alarmed. Fortunately, elections in Vermont are decentralized. Elections administration
is a local function resting with hundreds of municipal clerks and their local election workers.
Systematic fraud or a compromising of the system would be extremely difficult.
He offered this further assurance saying, Vermont is one of the many states requiring a paper
ballot for every vote cast. Whether counted by hand, or run through the tabulator, the paper
ballot is retained in the event of any questions regarding an election result. All tabulators
receive annual maintenance and are tested for optimal performance before every election.
Vermonts tabulators are not connected to the internet or any other software.
Condos expressed confidence in the security of Vermont elections. The Secretary of States
office constantly monitors its systems to be on the lookout for attacks of this nature. I am
proud of how proactive weve been about cybersecurity and hope Vermonters take some
comfort knowing we have been vigilant.
Sustainable Design Competition

Announces Five Finalists
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MONTPELIER Net Zero Vermont, Inc. has announced five finalists in the Sustainable
Montpelier 2030 Design Competition.
Design & Build
The five finalists were chosen from 20 entries through a process that involved votes by
Montpelier residents, workers and visitors. These voters were showcased at a pop-up gallery at
60 Main Street and online. In addition to the voting, there was also a review by a technical
committee.
Custom Energy-Efficient Homes
According to a Net Zero press release, The five finalists will have until December 2 to refine
and enrich their design concepts before they are presented again.
Weatherization Remodeling
The five finalists in alphabetical order are:

Gossens Temkin Collaborative (Montpelier, VT) consists of Gregg Gossens, AIA, Aron
Temkin, AIA, and David Burke. A Vermont team combining experience with sustainable
designs in community settings and urban design, park design, and low-income housing to
create a unique vision for the future of Montpelier.
Additions Timber Frames

Kitchens Bathrooms Flooring
Tiling Cabinetry Fine Woodwork
Scott & Partners (Essex Junction, VT) led by Joel Page, AIA, a firm that focuses primarily on
commercial, health care and multi-family housing design and planning.
Team Bridges (Cabot, VT) led by Land Strategies and inspired by the many bridges shaping
Montpelier and the area. Lead Bridges includes a blend of 11 accomplished and passionate
professionals from 10 companies and organizations, specializing in areas as wide as Urban
Design and Policy Development.
White & Arup (Gothenburg, Sweden) White of White & Arup tackles the challenges
of sustainability using a method of exploration and a multitude of disciplines. White &
Arup employ architects and engineers, as well are project managers, landscape architects,
social anthropologists, environmental and energy specialists, lighting designers and interior
designers.
Wiemann Lamphere Architects (Colchester, VT) a firm with numerous local projects under
their belt including creative, sustainable design solutions that respect the environment, the
buildings occupants, the budget and timeline of the project.
For more information about Net Zero Vermont, Inc., please go onlinge to www.netzerovt.org.
New Construction
Renovations
Woodworking
General Contracting
223-3447
clarconstruction.com
Opinion
THE BRIDGE
Reflections on WaterFest
ow that our WaterFest is over, Id like (as the only person who participated in every event
except the bike ride) to share some reflections. Between the opening, where I celebrated
with friends the fluid gifts of our eco-artist friend Jackie Brookner, and the closing which
featured the talents of screenwriter Amanda Joyce and other friends, I felt like I was floating down
the North Branch on a flimsy, self-inflated rubber raft launched at the Nature Center: watching
a stream of bike riders crossing a bridge above me; meeting world-traveling water warriors at key
crossroads; joining a group of nature lovers to discover, guided by a naturalist, plants and animals
which keep the riverbank healthy; listening to community leaders trying to protect our drinking
water or describing an historic action which saved a local spring.
At one point somebody challenged me, Who are you? But mostly, whenever I ran aground on
some muddy bank, given how low the river is, Id encounter some generous person who helped
me get floating again. I listened to water music and poetry pour out of the Unitarian Church
and hopped out to view water images at the library. I discovered the Chinese symbol for water
resembles the Winooski, with its four branches converging near Montpelier. And when I finally
arrived at the confluence of the North Branch and the Winooski, I was greeted by three distinct
communities of water lovers dancers, singers, and druids all celebrating that magical spot
together, before and after we performed a much-needed cleanup of the river bank.
As a flatlander who grew up on the Arizona desert, I know how miraculous and precious water
is. When I discovered the abundance of water in Vermont with all its forms, I understood why
water protector, Maude Bigelow, described it as blue gold. I worried that Vermonters tended to
take our water for granted. But through the WaterFest I appreciated how our individual sources
of water: Berlin Pond, the North Branch, the Winooski River and the East Montpelier Springs
by Margaret Blanchard, Montpelier
have their dedicated and skilled guardians. This discovery was reassuring. At the same time, I
observed very little convergence of these movements. Each has its own separate leaders, members
and events. As climate change threatens drought even in Vermont this year and as global needs
for water propel corporations to buy up water sources so they can sell the commons, my fervent
recommendation is that these varied groups hold a confluence at least once a year to strategize
together and combine forces to hold off the increasing threats of both pollution and privatization.
Helping to organize this WaterFest was just a drop in the bucket. Each of our actions is like a
stone thrown, its circles expanding across a pond. If we dropped our stones together, our growing
circles converging with one another might have a wider influence, a deeper resonance. Id like
to see all our water protectors connect with each other, and with water protectors around the
world, from Standing Rock Reservation in this country to the Brahmaputra River in China and
India. Id like to see our water warriors connect with 350 and other environmental groups, with
the proposed Net Zero plans for downtown Montpelier (especially along the riverbanks), as well
as with science educators, city council and governmental bodies. Id like to see the folks who
organized the opposition to privatization of the East Montpelier springs write a book sharing
with future water saviors their strategies and tactics for protecting that water source. I would like
to see our water musicians, artists, poets, dancers and ritual creators gather together every fall in
the circle where our rivers meet to celebrate this life giving element.
Special thanks to participants, especially Dot Helling for skillful connecting; Nat, Carla and Marichel
for The Bridges water issue; librarians Rachel Senechal and Jackie Sullivan for generous help; friends
Kate, Sowbel, Alice, Alana, Jim and Case for ongoing support.
Donahue Initiates 2016 Re-Election Campaign

NORTHFIELD Incumbent Representative Anne Donahue, R-Northfield-Berlin, has announced state to ensure that health care consumer rights are protected.
initiation of her campaign for re-election as representative for the Washington-1 House district.
Donahue built consensus for the bill in the Health Care Committee and led it to a 124 to 17 vote
I am grateful and humbled by the strong support of my constituents in the primary election, she on the House floor. It was signed into law in May.
said.
As a member of the committee, Donahue also successfully pressed for an independent review to
Donahue, 60, said that she was committed to continuing her record of hard work and problem- assess whether any parts of the Vermont Health Connect insurance portal were salvageable, to
solving. She is a native Vermonter who is a 26-year resident of Northfield and has served in the prevent throwing good money after bad.
House since 2003.
A new governor will now have the tools to make the right decision for Vermonters after this fiasco of
Tackling the cost of health care remains our number one challenge. Its what drives up property the Shumlin administration, she said. We need to rebuild a balance so that we avoid having laws
taxes, income taxes and costs to businesses in the state, she said. And we have to do it right, without passed that dont stand the test of discussion and debate. Right now, members often just rush in for
hurting access to necessary care.
the vote on bills without even listening to debate on the floor.
Donahue said she is proud of having drafted and led the way for passing legislation this past spring Donahue said that at least one of the candidates running against her appears to be unaware of the
that prohibited the state from touching Medicare resources, if it negotiates a federal deal to create a Democratic super-majority that currently runs the legislature.
so-called all payer model.
He said he wants to awaken the Legislature from the lethargy and inertia that gripped it this past
The all payer model may create opportunities for a more efficient care delivery system, she said, session but it was his party that was in total control of what did or did not happen, she said.
but it isnt worth doing if it is going to meddle with our citizens Medicare, or interfere with Change from the status quo means reducing one-party rule in the legislature, not increasing it.
consumer protections.
Donahue is known across the state and nationally for mental health advocacy. She is the news editor
Donahue was appointed Ranking Member of the House Health Care Committee this term, after of Counterpoint, the newspaper published by Vermont Psychiatric Survivors, a peer-run non-profit.
years serving on the Human Services Committee.
In 2016, she received the Mental Health Legislative Advocacy Award from a coalition of
I locked in the language that says the state cant enter into any agreement that would reduce organizations for her outstanding service and commitment to improving the lives of individuals
Medicare covered services, increase Medicare patient cost-sharing, or appropriate or aggregate any affected by mental illness.
Medicare payments with state money.
According to the coalition, Representative Donahue was recognized for her public accessibility
Donahue said the bill also requires that patients keep the right to choose their providers, and that and her work to help citizens find help and hope through community resources. Her work in the
providers be permitted to choose whether to participate in accountable care organizations that legislature and the community is actively improving Vermonts mental health system of care.
manage health care resources. Under the bill, accountable care organizations will be regulated by the Among her accomplishments in 2016 was blocking the administration from a Medicaid policy
change that would have violated federal law on parity in access to mental health care.
Donahue has a 35-year history of public service. She is a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic
Church.
Editors note: This has been edited for length
O C TO B E R 2 0 N OV E M B E R 2 , 2 016 PAG E 2 5
T H E B R I D G E
Horse-Riding Therapy Program

Needs Money to Fix a Lift
he Rhythm of the Rein Therapeutic Riding Program at Water Tower Farm in

Marshfield is seeking financial help to repair a Sure Hands mechanical lift that lifts
its clients onto a horse. This lift is particularly critical for clients who cannot mount a
horse in a conventional way.
Rhythm of the Rein serves children, adults and military veterans with disabilities who benefit
both physically and emotionally through interactions with horses.
A financial contribution of $250 has already been received to help fix the lift from the Barre
Kiwanis Club. According Program Director Dianne Lashoones the remaining balance of the
bill to fix the lift is $1,200.
To find out more about Rhythmn of the Rein, please go online to www.rhythmoftherein.org.
Or send a check to made payable to Rhythm of the Rein, care of Program Director, Dianne
Lashoones, 386 US Route 2, P.O. Box 67, Marshfield, VT 05658. Or phone: 426-3781.
Show Off Your Skillz!!

The Bridge is hosting a variety show on November 12
to feature area youth.
g!
SinIf you are between the ages of 5 and 25

and want to show Montpelier that ACT!
you've got talent, call 223-5112 ext 12
or email marichel@montpelierbridge.com
for more information.
Play an
instrument!
DISPLAY
YOUR ART!
DANCE!
READ YOUR
POEM OR TELL
A STORY!
TELL SOME
JOKES!
UNITED WE STAND National Life Group employees walk from the National Life campus along with community members to Montpelier City
Hall, November 14. This was to demonstrate that Montpelier stands in solidarity
with the Harwood Union Community in the wake of the devastating loss of five
teenagers from that school district.
Letters
A Call For Republicans To Take A
Public Stand On Trump
Editor:
As you know, this November voters in Vermont
will have a variety of choices on the ballots they
cast, from president down to more local races
like state representative and justice of the peace.
Unfortunately this year we have a candidate at
the top of the Republican ballot so uncouth,
unfit and generally repellent, that it's shocking
to know that there are still people who support
him.
In the light of last week's revelations, I'm
calling on you, the Republican candidates of
Washington County to publicly make it plain
whether or not you support the sexist, racist,
Islamophobic, hateful Donald Trump.
Your potential constituents deserve to know
where you stand, and we can only interpret
silence as a tacit endorsement of Trump.
Thank you for your timely response!
Jeremy Hansen, Berlin
Carl Etnier for House

Editor:
Carl Etnier is running for House as a
progressive, seeking to represent Middlesex and
East Montpelier. He has a broad educational
background which underpins his knowledge of
and passion for strengthening local economies
and making communities more sustainable.
He has political experience, including a current
position on the East Montpelier selectboard and
media experience which has given him a good
working knowledge of state government. Hes
also worked in water testing and treatment,
critical issues for Central Vermont right now.

His goals are to create jobs by continuing to
bolster developments in local, sustainable food
and energy production; to push back against
the political influence of moneyed interests;
and ensuring strong unions and fair wages
are accessible to unravel deepening income
inequality.
2016 is a critical juncture in our politics. In
the national Democratic presidential primary,
the corporate funded status quo seems to
have defeated the real change that so many
citizens need. Yet, in Vermont, Bernie Sanders
defeated Hillary Clinton by more than 80
points. This demonstrated that Vermonters
hold a commitment to genuine, progressive
change. Yet, the Democratic supermajority in
the legislature has not delivered on this change.
Vermont is further from single payer health care
now than it was eight years ago. Incomes are
more unequal. Our lakes and rivers are dirtier.
We have to stand up to the Democrats and
elect Progressive advocates for real change.
Carl Etnier is such a Progressive, and he has
the experience, the expertise and the passion
Vermont needs.
Thomas Gram, Montpelier
Marci Young For House

Editor:
Marci Young is a Progressive candidate for
the State House in the Lamoille-Washington
district. She was raised on a small dairy farm in
Wolcott. She now lives in Morrisville.
Having studied environmental science and
resource management, she has a good sense
of the ecological challenges facing Vermont.
Shes worked for state government, run small
businesses and helped run cooperatives and
shes highly engaged in volunteer work for her
community. She cares deeply about the needs of
working class Vermonters, and wants to help us
Twenty-Three-Year Old Horse Shot

and Killed: PETA Asks for Help
rooke Rossi, who represents the national animal rights organization People for the
Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is urgently seeking information that could
lead to the arrest of the person or persons who shot and killed an elder horse named
Bunny with a bow and arrow. Bunny was in the words of a PETA press release in her own
pasture in the middle of the night.PETA believes the shooting of the horse took place on
Wednesday night, October 5 and PETA is offering a reward of up to $5,000 to anyone
who can provide either PETA or the police authorities with information leading to the arrest
of the bow-and-arrow killer or killers.
To help PETA with information please do the following: contact the Barre Police
Department at 802-476-6613 or submit a tip online at vs.vermont.gov/tipsubmit. Or phone
Brooke Rossi at 202-483-7382. For more information please go online to PETA.org
THE BRIDGE
transition to a more ecologically sustainable and
socially just economy that works for all of us.
The Democratic Party has been campaigning
on some of these issues, but they continually
fail to deliver for our state, even when they
have a super-majority. If we want to see real
progress in Vermont, we need to start electing
real Progressives to our statehouse.
As a progressive, she doesnt take money from
big corporations. That gives her a degree
of freedom in challenging the power of big
business that the democrats simply dont have.
Marci Young has the tenacity to break through
the stagnation in the State House and make the
changes Vermont needs. I strongly encourage
Lamoille-Washington voters to support her this
November.
Thomas Gram, Montpelier
Mental Illness Stigma:

Barrier to Decency
Editor:
Advocacy For is the positive use of language
to achieve positive goals. It is measured by
the frequency of positive affirmations, the
infrequency of negatives. As simple as that
seems, recognizing the positives and the
negatives in a society which confuses the two
is often difficult.
The use of positives must be deliberate, constant,
and consistent, for it takes many positives to
overcome one single negative. Though it is a
rule of Advocacy For to present the positive,
sometimes negatives are so well established,
focusing on them can bring them clearly to
peoples consciousness.
In the simplest, most common of metaphors lie
the most powerful negatives.
A First Primer of "Don'ts"
Avoid the intransitive verbs "are" or "is" and
thereby avoid the offensive labeling of people as
"schizophrenics" or a schizophrenic." Instead,

use person-first language and name the illness,
such as He/she has schizophrenia.
Avoid the articles "the," a, and thereby avoid
"the mentally ill, a depressive. Use "personfirst" language, such as "people with bipolar
disorder" or an "individual with depression."
Avoid using adjectives that label people. Instead,
use substantives, naming their conditions.
Avoid "mental illness" whenever you can use the
fully informative, specific diagnosis.
Avoid "mental illness" in the singular. Use the
plural, "mental illnesses " as there are many.
Avoid mental illness. Whenever possible, use
illness instead. They are illnesses.
Avoid the innuendo "stigma," it victimizes.
Use instead "prejudice" or "discrimination,"
specifics which can be concretely addressed or
redressed.
Avoid recounting "myths," as they are repeated
in folk cultures well known, instead inform and
educate to truths.
Harold Maio, retired mental health editor
Fort Myers, Florida
This letter to the editor is in regards to the article
"Mental Illness Stigma: Barrier to Decency" that
was posted on montpelierbridg.com on Oct. 7.
What Do You Think?

Read something that you would like to
respond to? We welcome your letters
and opinion pieces. Letters must be
fewer than 300 words. Opinion pieces
should not exceed 600 words.
The Bridge reserves the right
to edit and cut pieces.
Send your piece to:
editorial@montpelierbridge.com.
Deadline for the next issue is
October 28.
Effects of Major Downtown

Construction Pondered For 2017
MONTPELIER Sometime shortly after we ring in the new year and the snow melts
the Department of Public Works is going to begin a slew of road, sidewalk and bike path
construction.
The information below is from a note sent to The Bridge by Assistant City Manager Jessie Baker:
The year 2017 will bring a lot of construction to Montpelier: The start of construction at 1
Taylor Street, the construction of the Shared Use Path extension from Granite Street to the
Civics Center, Water and Sewer work on Northfield Street, the repaving of Route 12 from the
Main Street bridge out Elm Street to the town line, and the repaving of State Street (as well as
associated sidewalk work on Main and State.)
We have nine months to plan and prepare for this work. This will include a comprehensive
communications plan that will provide updates on all of these projects.
In terms of State and Main repaving and sidewalk work, there are some specifics to keep in mind:
We estimate that this will take approximately 60 days. This does not mean the streets will be
closed for 60 days, just that work will be going on during this time period. In fact, we hope the
majority of the time the street will be open to traffic.
Work can be done during the day or at night but will need to happen in about 12-hour shifts.
To get feedback from the community on preferences for construction, the City will be putting
out a survey in the next week or so asking for feedback. The work will go out to bid in the
winter.
We are excited about these infrastructure improvements to downtown, and believe they will
be a benefit to the City and downtown in the long run.
We are interested in working with the business community to best support you all during this
period of construction. We suggest that this be an ongoing agenda item at Montpelier Business
Association meetings and we all think creatively about how we can best support each other.
The Bridge publishes every 1st and 3rd

Thursday of the month, except in July when
we only publish on the 3rd Thursday.
Our next issue comes out November 3.
Like The Bridge on
Facebook:
facebook.com/
thebridgenewspapervt
Follow The Bridge

on Twitter:
@montpbridge
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THE BRIDGE

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Honoring David Budbill Pg.

October 20 November 2, 2016

College Hall at the Vermont

The Story of the Vermont College of Fine Arts

Here is the remarkable story that details the

But once Schneider made that decision,

According to Greene, Schneider was open

campus: the MFA in Writing; the MFA in

We're online! montpelierbridge.com or vtbridge.com

Heres News about our Current Fundraising Campaign

November 12 Youth Variety Show

Salamander Pond Is Low, Time For Rain

Support The Bridge

$200 $250 Other $________

Friends of The Bridge will be periodically acknowledged in future issues of

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Send this form and your check to:

HEARD ON THE STREET

City Clerks Office Hosting House, Senate Candidate Forum on ORCA

Quirky Pet Shop Owner Donates To Spay/Neuter Program

Markstein Joins Tree Board

National Group Helps City

Winston Presents Films Of The Sixties

MONTPELIER/CALAIS Rick Winston, former co-owner of the Savoy theater and

Washington 3 Candidate Q&A

ashington 3 House Candidates (Barre City), challenger Karen Lauzon, a

Barre Representative Tom Walz Airs Issues

Barre Business Owner, Challenger Karen Lauzon Speaks Out

The Bridge: What is the best way to improve our economy?

Karen Lauzon, a Republican, is property manager at Edgewood Development LLC.

Got a news tip? We want to know!

A Message From City Hall

Promoting Economic Development

Identifying key sectors for growth,

Helping Visitors Find Their Way

Designing a Net Zero Downtown

Photo by Annie Tiberio-Cameron

Montpelier Flood Watch:

Helpful Tips To Stay Safe and Avoid Damage

Remaining floodwaters may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.

Tree Hugger: Single Trees Are Lonely

an you be a tree hugger and live in

Unlike those who own large tracts of land,

place for nesting habitat and nester protection

Invasive barberry bush in front of City

dont know about you, but Im getting a

steppers or pedaling machines. Some of it is

Essay: The Halloween Edition

ccording to South Carolina serial killer Donald Henry Gaskins

Permanently scarred by his own nickname, one that invited decades of

Continued on next page

P.O. Box 1143, Montpelier, VT 05601

Creating a College: The Story of the Vermont College of Fine Arts

opened an account, and told the bank to expect a wire of

Reaching Out to the Competition:

Then, as VCFA President Greene observed, something else

According to Greene, There were a number of developers

After the Panic:

Most of the developers, Greene said, were interested in

At about the same time, Louise Crowley, Greenes academic

Remember, the new college had been incorporated in late May

In all of this, whats important to remember is that the three