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Reader Bob Faasse sent in this photo of a rainbow over the Mad River.
You can send in your photos to news@valleyreporter.com
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BB Bagels opens today
 Friday, November 15, 2024, is the grand opening of BB’s Bagels in Waitsfield. The brainchild of Brooke Downing, the shop will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Regular hours will be Thursday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The business will be closed Thanksgiving Day. BB’s Bagels is located in the Irasville Common buildings. Downing, 19, started making bagels during the pandemic and said she enjoyed it way too much. She started making way too many bagels and her neighbors caught on and she started selling them in the community. Faced with many requests to open a shop, she did so (with a lot of help from her family and friends) once she graduated from high school.
Gary Eckhart wins award
 “Lunch,”a new watercolor painting by Warren artist, Gary Eckhart, was selected as the outstanding watercolor of the 96th Grand National Exhibition of the American Artists Professional League. The League is the oldest organization in the United States devoted to representational art including works in pastel, oil, acrylic, and sculpture. The exhibition is held annually in the gallery of the Salmagundi Club on 5th Avenue in New York City and is recognized worldwide as a premier showing of representational art.
Richard Levenstein receives legal award
Richard Levenstein, son-in-law of former Fayston resident Sandra Wolfin, is the recipient of one of four annual awards presented by the American Inns of Court, a national organization dedicated to promoting the ideals of professionalism, ethics, civility, and excellence within the legal community. The American Inns of Court, adapted from the historic English Inns of Court, provide a forum for legal professionals to meet with others in their community to discuss issues of civility and ethics, and to promote excellence in contemporary legal practice.
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Northeast fire danger.
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Vermont extends ban on debris burning
The ban on debris burning issued on Monday, October 28, 2024, by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) has been extended in Bennington, Rutland, Windham, and Windsor Counties. Persistent dry conditions in the southern portion of the state, high winds, an abundance of fuel, and regional drought have created an elevated risk for wildfires. This ban will end on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 3 p.m.
The ban in all other counties expired Monday, November 11, 2024, at 3 p.m. However, local conditions may vary, and town forest fire wardens may have burning restrictions in place. Always contact your local fire warden to obtain a burn permit prior to any open burning.
There has been no significant rainfall in the state and most of the area is experiencing drought conditions according to the US Drought Monitor.
Southern New England is also experiencing drought conditions. Massachusetts and Connecticut have been fighting several wildfires over the past two weeks. The continued dry weather outlook and the abundance of dry leaves and other fuels in Vermont’s forests, has increased the potential for wildfires to spread rapidly. Wind gusts over 30 MPH have also influenced wildfire spread. Larger fuels and ground conditions remain critically dry in the south, presenting hazards that will burn longer and deeper into the ground, making them difficult to control.
Check the current fire danger forecast and find more information on fire safety and prevention online. Fpr.vermont.gov
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What's in this week's The Valley Reporter
This week The Valley Reporter looks at master planning going on for the Irasville section of Waitsfield, the school board considers a device ban district-wide, health care costs hit local towns, and some final thoughts from our local candidates.
See this week's edition of The Valley Reporter on newsstands or in your mail box if you are already a subscriber. To subscribe use the link below and never miss an issue.
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Keep Up Good Courage cast/directors
From left to right, Front row, Elizabeth Treacy, Sitora Iskandarova,, Shevonne Travers. Second row, Ramona Godfrey, Susan Loynd, Tobin Foley, Bobbi Rood, Larissa Ursprung, Jane Cunningham, Debbie Wilson. Back row, Brent Adams, Jonathan Ursprung, Bruce Sinnott, Peter Delfausse, David Hare, Vt Civil War Hemlocks. (not pictured Luke Morrison). Photo courtesy of Joslin Memorial Library
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Joslin Memorial Library thanks Keep Up Good Courage community
The Joslin Memorial Library wishes to thank each and every actor, The Songbird Project, The Hemlocks, the Valley Players, our sponsors (MRV Rotary, Take Me Back, Inc., the Waitsfield Historical Society and Friends of the Joslin Library), Bobbi Rood, for all she said “yes” to managing, Alice Evans, who authored the book that started this all, and the Mad River Valley community for coming to hear this unique and powerful story.
What began as a small idea to honor the Waitsfield men and boys, who had served as soldiers during the Civil War, became a full stage production with musical accompaniment. Based upon the Silsby family letters at the Vermont Historical Society and Samuel Jackson Dana’s letters at the Waitsfield Historical Society, the play Keep Up Good Courage recognized those who fought to preserve the Union their forefathers had fought so hard for less than a hundred years beforehand.
Shevonne Travers, Joslin Memorial Library
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Potential reward offered for information regarding Bald Eagle illegally shot
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a reward of up to $5,000 to eligible individuals for information that significantly furthers the investigation into, or leads to enforcement action against, the person(s) who illegally shot a bald eagle in or near Bridport, Vermont, this past October.
Game wardens with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department first responded to reports of a dead adult bald eagle near East Street in Bridport on October 15, 2024. A radiography analysis found metal pellets and recent wounds consistent with shotgun fire in the eagle’s body. Officials confirm these are the cause of death. Data from a research band on the eagle’s leg showed that it was first observed in Vermont in August 2006.
The case is being jointly investigated by the special agents with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and game wardens with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Anyone with information should contact Game Warden Detective Sgt. David Taddei with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department at (802) 498-7078. Wildlife crimes can also be reported to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through their online tip form or at 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477).
“U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service special agents and Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department game wardens have a strong history of working together to enforce federal wildlife law in our state,” said Game Warden Col. Justin Stedman with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. “Vermonters also have an impressive record of stepping up with information about poaching cases and wildlife violations when law enforcement asks for help. If you know something that could help us hold the person who shot this protected, native bird accountable, we hope you will come forward.”
Although bald eagles have been recovered under both the U.S. Endangered Species Act and Vermont’s state endangered species statutes, they are still protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Maximum fines for killing an eagle under these federal laws are $15,000 and $100,000 respectively.
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Community sled hockey fundraiser
A fundraiser for the Central Vermont Pioneer sled hockey team will be held on Wednesday, December 4,, from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Valley Annex.
There will be a wreath silent auction, hot and cold appetizers, hot chili and soups, soft drinks and a cash bar.
The party theme is the Roaring 20s and the wreath them is holiday happenings.
Donation to the Pioneers is $25 or two people for $40.
For further information contact, Nancy Emory at 802-496-9416, or Troy or Cheryl Kingsbury at 802-496-4690.
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Reader Dan Reicher sent in this photo of our changing seasons in the Mad River Valley.
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Local students name VTrans snowplows
Sno’ Problem -that’s the name Warren Elementary School students successfully submitted to VTrans for its Name the Plow program which asks Vermont students to participate in naming each season’s plows..
At Moretown Elementary School, students submitted Jack the Snowcat, which VTrans selected. Brookside Primary School students submitted the name Snowfire, homage to one of Waterbury’s oldest businesses, Snowfire Auto. Harwood Union Middle School students submitted Big Buster Phil which was selected by Vtrans.
Among other notable names selected by VTrans were Clearopathra and No More Mr. Ice Guy.
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Family Lantern Walk Celebration
On Sunday, November 10, 2024 at 4 p.m., around 50 Mad River Valley residents gathered in front of the Warren Library for a Lantern Walk celebration. Families from Warren, Waitsfield, and Fayston attended. The children carried handmade lanterns, and the families walked together through Warren village, singing songs to celebrate the light in everyone. The procession began and ended on the library lawn, where guests enjoyed a fire pit and mulled cider.
The event was organized by two Warren parents, with help of the Warren Library staff. Lantern-making supplies were donated locally, and assembled into kits which were made available to all at the Warren Library. A lantern decorating event was held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the Warren Library, and lantern kits were also distributed to the Warren elementary school Pre-K classrooms. Under teacher Andra Kisler’s guidance, students decorated lanterns as a classroom activity.
Throughout history in many parts of the world, the end of the harvest season has been celebrated with festivals of light. During these shorter, darker days, the Lantern Walk presented an opportunity to come together and celebrate the light that children bring.
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Chair-supported yoga for seniors
Gentle chair-supported yoga for seniors will be held on Fridays, November 8, 15, 22 and 29 (no class November 1) from 10 to 11 a.m.AM at the Village Meeting House in Waitsfield. Cash or check (to Mad River Seniors): $7 per class. Contact Camilla Behn at camilla.behn@madriverseniors.org
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Fayston sixth-grade class holds poinsettia fundraiser
The Fayston Parent Teacher Organization is assisting the sixth-grade class with a poinsettia sale. Purchase poinsettias and cyclamen here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV8ZfZ0KN95XA2xHBk9k8qvngyYRArJ4VErkoan8CoZm0Dwg/viewform
The order period closes Friday, November 22, 2024, and flowers can be picked up at Fayston Elementary on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.
Profits from this sale will be put toward the sixth-grade trip and graduation. Questions: email ptofayston@gmail.com.
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Sunset splendor over the Mad River sent in by reader Bob Faasse.
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Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum Red Bench speaker series features 40 years of ski art
The Red Bench Speaker Series at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in Stowe presents, “Vermont's Churchill Ettinger; 40 Years of Ski Art”, Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 7 p.m. via Zoom.
Vermont’s own Churchill Ettinger (1903-1984) was an accomplished and prolific painter of skiing in the 20th century. His painting career paralleled the post war development of recreational skiing in the United States from the late 1940s through the early 1980s. In one three-year period in the 1960s he skied and painted 18 ski areas in five different countries.
Tom Ettinger and Curt Simonson will join participate.
Over the past two years Ettinger and Simonson have cataloged over 150 examples of Ettinger’s ski art. They will discuss the artist’s career, show examples of his ski art, and share stories from his life and career. Simonson and his wife Kate have collected 20th-century American ski art for nearly 20 years. He has researched Churchill Ettinger ski art since 2005.
Churchill Ettinger’s son Tom Ettinger retired as director of Sports Illustrated Enterprises. He enjoys upland hunting and raising champion bird dogs. He manages the artist’s estate.
This virtual event starts at 7 p.m. via Zoom. Virtual Red Bench events remain complimentary and donations to help support the museum's mission.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GEFNr7kSTXiWRB4Fc8XUUg#/registration
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John Williams sent in this shot of a rainbow encompassing The Valley.
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Fallen logs invigorate stream life
By Declan McCabe
For 12 summers, my Vermont colleagues and I offered guidance to high school student and teacher teams who conducted research on streams as part of a National Science Foundation EPSCoR program. These teams received training in July, and for the rest of the summer and early autumn, employed their news skills by taking water samples and flow measurements and making observations about aquatic macroinvertebrate populations. They also took note of the size and abundance of fallen logs in the water.
I remember students expressing curiosity about this last measurement. Why, they asked, should we bother to note the presence of logs in the water? A good way to answer that question is to consider the historical practice of clearing and straightening streams – and the damage it has caused.
People have often regarded streams as primarily drainage features: ways for rainfall to efficiently exit the landscape. From this perspective, a meandering stream needs fixing. In our region, for the past several centuries, people have “improved” streams by straightening them, removing wood and other obstructions, armoring banks with riprap, and, where streams approach roads or other busy areas, diverting water into underground pipes.
The cumulative effect of these actions is that many watersheds have less capacity to absorb and slow water than they previously did. As water flows quickly, it erodes streambanks and cuts into streambeds. Trapped within these deeply-incised channels, water can’t spread into upland landscapes and instead rushes downhill. After heavy rains, the downstream impacts can be devastating. Excess surface water can rapidly build into powerful floods, capable of damaging homes, roads, and other infrastructure.
Torrential floods disrupt aquatic life, but straightened and cleared streams harm aquatic ecosystems in other ways, as well. We learn in grade school that a wavy line between two points is longer than a straight line; for the same reason, a meandering stream holds more water and offers more space for habitat than a straight one can. And straight, monotonous flows offer poor living conditions for many species. For example, many species of fish require slow eddies, backwaters, pools, or rocky riffles for food, shelter, and reproduction. Many insect larvae, as well as young amphibians, require pools and submerged shelters where they can hide and feed.
As in forests, in streams, messiness is good. By slowing a stream’s main flow, logs can push water up over banks into soil, and eventually help straightened streams return to more natural, meandering paths through the landscape. This change reduces flooding downstream and sets the stage for more and more diverse aquatic habitats. As the upstream sides of logs – especially those with branches still attached – accumulate fallen leaves and other debris, these surfaces offer shelter and food for macroinvertebrates and other organisms. Some fallen trees form partial dams, and with these, deep, substantial pools and sand bars. In a complex underwater habitat of submerged branches and trunks, piled sand, and other features, macroinvertebrates and fish can take shelter in areas of slack water.
Wood also serves as a filter, removing gravel, sand, and silt from the water column. Sediments and organic materials that accumulate among branches on stream beds store nutrients that might otherwise contribute to downstream eutrophication. In this way, the presence of wood in streams helps protect downstream lakes from algal and cyanobacteria blooms.
Submerged wood is also important as a direct food source. More than 20 different species of aquatic invertebrates in our region rely directly on wood for food. These so called “miners” tunnel into underwater logs and branches, consuming wood as they go. They include the larvae of beetles, mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and true flies, and collectively play a critical role in the aquatic food web.
So, why document logs in streams? Because the presence of wood in the water is a key indicator of stream health. Wood is so important to aquatic systems that stream restoration practitioners often focus on adding wood features as a way to heal damaged waterways. Although this work requires expert planning and permits – no one reading this article should rush out to drop logs into stream – there are ways all of us can help to promote natural restoration. We can avoid the temptation to “clean up” stream banks, and rather allow trees, broken branches, and leaves to accumulate in water naturally. We can also encourage friends and family to reconsider the old aesthetic preference for straight, fast-flowing streams, and distinguish between true trash and natural debris. By all means remove tires and abandoned shopping carts from your neighborhood stream, but when given the choice, let sleeping logs lie.
Declan McCabe teaches biology at Saint Michael’s College and is the author of Turning Stones: Discovering the Life of Water (Down East Books, 2024). Illustration by Adelaide Murphy Tyrol. The Outside Story is assigned and edited by Northern Woodlands magazine and sponsored by the Wellborn Ecology Fund of New Hampshire Charitable Foundation: nhcf.org.
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Warren United Church sponsors a campaign for Emergency Cleanup Buckets
There is an ongoing need for cleanup assistance in areas that were recently devastated by recent hurricanes. For those who are looking for a way to help, the Warren United Church is sponsoring a campaign for Emergency Cleanup Buckets, an initiative of the wider Church World Services. These buckets will be sent to areas in North Carolina, Florida, and other states that were devastated by recent hurricanes. Local organizers report that they are pleased to have the support of Bisbee's Hardware through John Wilson who will provide a drop-off box for items. Bisbee's is providing the 5-gallon buckets for the congregation and public. People can also drop off items at the Warren Church. The following is a list of items needed.
The Bucket Drive will continue through Friday, November 22.
What is needed: (It is important to get the exact amounts listed)
• One 4-8-ounce pump spray air freshener.
• Five scouring pads (no stainless steel or pads with soap in them. Remove from packaging.)
• Seven sponges, including one large.
• One scrub brush (with or without handle.)
• 18 reusable, lightweight multipurpose dry-cleaning towels (no terrycloth, microfiber, or paper towels. Remove from packaging.)
• One 32-64-ounce or two 25-ounce bottle(s) of liquid laundry detergent.
• One 16-34-ounce bottle of liquid disinfectant dish soap.
• One 12-40-ounce bottle of liquid concentrate household cleaner that can be mixed with water (no spray bottles.)
• One package of 36-50 clothespins.
• One 50-100- foot clothesline (cotton or plastic line.)
• Five dust masks (N95 particulate respirator dust masks preferred; no surgical masks.)
• Two pairs of heavy-duty, waterproof dishwashing gloves (latex-free, non-surgical. durable for multiple use. Remove from packaging.)
• One pair of work gloves (cotton with leather palm or all leather.)
• 20-28 heavy duty or contractor type 30-45-gallon trash bags on a roll (remove from packaging.)
• One 6-9-ounce bottle of non-aerosol insect repellent (pump spray bottles must have protective covers. Packs of 10-20 insect repellent wipes also acceptable.)
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Mad River Valley annual Thanksgiving basket drive
Last Thanksgiving, 97 Mad River Valley Thanksgiving baskets were assembled and provided to families and individuals in need. Over 430 people were helped to have a free Thanksgiving meal, thanks to the generosity of the Mad River Valley community and volunteers.
“We are expecting there will be as many, if not more, who will request a Thanksgiving basket this year. No one in need is turned away,” said Judy Beningson, project coordinator. “We are asking that all others donate as much as they can so everyone in the Mad River Valley can enjoy the holiday again this year.”
The program works from two directions: first, with donations from individuals and businesses so the Thanksgiving baskets can be filled, and second, with local people in need signing up to receive baskets. On the donor side, donations of food and cash are collected, with the cash being used to purchase items not fully covered by food donations. Individual volunteers pack the food in Thanksgiving baskets. Businesses buy turkeys, donate cash, provide food collection or food drive sites, or help with donor outreach: already Waitsfield Telecom, Lawson’s, Mad River Distilleries, ST Paving, Kitchenette, Mehuron’s, Shaw’s, Clear Water Filtration, and The Valley Reporter are participating. The Waitsfield UCC is purchasing gas cards for basket recipients, using the funds obtained from refunds on bottles and cans deposited in the collection container behind the church. The Mad River Valley Community Fund is also helping toward the purchase of turkeys.
On the receiving side, families or individuals in need throughout The Valley (covering Moretown, Waitsfield, Warren, and Fayston) indicate they would like a Thanksgiving basket. The baskets contain all the ingredients necessary for a Thanksgiving meal, including turkey, stuffing, veggies, fruit, gravy, cranberry sauce and pie. The whole meal is free of charge. The basket is either delivered to the recipients’ address in The Valley, or the recipient can pick up their basket.
Beningson said that assistance from the community is critical. Mehuron’s is helping to buy and store turkeys (that’s almost 1,500 pounds of turkeys). The Valley Reporter offices and Lawson’s are food collection sites. The whole program is sponsored by the Mad River Valley Interfaith Council, who ensures there are enough donations and volunteers to make this tradition continue. And, once again, both the Green Mountain Valley School (GMVS) and Harwood Union High School are participating in the effort.
Here's how to participate, as either a recipient or a donor:
For people who want to receive a basket, there are several ways to sign up: (1) use the online Google form at https://bit.ly/getMRVturkey; (2) ask for information at Mad River Valley schools; (3) use the sign-up form at the Mad River Valley Community Pantry in Waitsfield; (4) speak to the pastor at a local church; (5) contact the MRV Community Fund by calling 802-461-6241; or (6) use the program’s recipient QR code, available on posters throughout The Valley. Please sign up no later than Wednesday, November 20.
People who want to donate can help in any of the following ways: (1) food donations; (2) monetary donations; or (3) in-person assistance. Any extra food and cash is given to the Mad River Valley Community Pantry.
To make food donations, people can buy food items from the list below and drop them off at The Valley Reporter, Lawson’s, or local churches by Friday, November 22. Buy the sizes requested below or as close to them as possible.
- Apple sauce (20-25 oz)
- Biscuit Mix (box)
- Brownie Mix (box)
- Canned vegetables (14-16 oz cans: corn, peas, or green beans)
- Crackers (8-12 oz box)
- Cranberry sauce (14 oz can)
- Gravy (1 can/bottle)
- Peanut Butter (16-20 oz jar)
- Stuffing (1 box/bag)
- Tuna (5 oz can)
To make monetary donations, use the Interfaith Council’s PayPal link at https://bit.ly/MRVdonate (specify that it is for Turkey Baskets), or mail a check to: Mad River Valley Interfaith Council, P.O. Box 342, Waitsfield, VT 05673, or use the program’s donor QR code for PayPal or for Venmo, available on posters throughout The Valley.
To participate in person by sorting, packing, or delivering food, sign up online at https://bit.ly/MRVgobble.
“The Mad River Valley Thanksgiving Basket project has been going on for well over 20 years. We are a special community of neighbors helping neighbors,” Beningson, said.
She also acknowledged the loss of longtime local Thanksgiving basket team member Gwen Hoadley who died this summer.
“We will remember her for her lasting contributions to the Thanksgiving Basket project. She initiated the food drives, with the first one being held in the parking lot of Bourne Energy as we stopped cars on their way to and from the annual Ski & Skate sale. Gwen even arranged for a radio station to broadcast the event live. Nothing stopped Gwen. She was a bundle of energy, ready to face any challenge. Thank you, Gwen! We will miss you,” she added.
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Mad River Valley Community Pantry needs
This week, the Mad River Valley Community Pantry needs hearty soups, protein drinks (such as Boost/Ensure/Carnation Instant Breakfast), juice, pasta sauce, pasta, mac and cheese, canned chicken, canned salmon, white rice, coffee, toilet paper, dish detergent, clothes detergent, personal hygiene items, diapers (sizes 4,5,6).
Also, Thanksgiving basket order forms are available in the pantry. Sign up deadline: November 20, 2024.
Donations can be dropped off at the pantry (at the rear of Evergreen Apartments) during regular hours: Tuesday and Saturday 10 a.m. to noon and Wednesday 4 to 6 p.m. or in the box at the exit of Mehuron's Grocery.
Cash is needed to purchase additional items. Visit mrv-ic.org to donate online or send checks made out to MRV Interfaith Council at P.O. Box 342, Waitsfield, VT 05673
To volunteer, email mrvcommunitypantry@gmail.com.
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Mad River Valley Little League annual meeting
The Mad River Valley Little League annual meeting will be held on Sunday, November 17, 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Mad River Glen. Come and learn more about supporting the growing Little League. The annual meeting will include adopting revised bylaws, and election of board members and officers. The agenda and proposed revision to the bylaws can be found on MRVLL.org. Reach out with any questions. 2024board@mrvll.org
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Senior meals for November
Community Breakfast: Served Mondays from 8-10 AM at Evergreen Place, Waitsfield. Hosted by Mad River Seniors on November 11, 18 and 25. Breakfast offerings include eggs, potato, meat, French toast, pancakes and more, including weekly specials. Cost $10-$15, as able.
Senior Luncheon: Served Tuesdays starting at noon at Evergreen Place, Waitsfield. Hosted by Mad River Seniors on November 12, 19 and 26. Programs featuring local speakers are offered after each luncheon. Please check our website for specifics. All ages are welcome.
November 19: Meatloaf w/mashed potatoes, string beans, tossed salad, wheat roll and banana pudding with vanilla wafers.
November 26: Thanksgiving Feast including roast turkey, stuffing, gravy, squash casserole, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, rolls, cranberry sauce and pumpkin, apple, and pecan pies.
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Got an opinion? Share it with Valley Reporter readers! Send letters to the editor to news@valleyreporter.com
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Warren Public Library puzzle tournament
The Warren Public Library will host a puzzle tournament from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 16. Teams of one to four people compete to see who can be the first to assemble a 500-piece puzzle. Both adult and mixed-age teams may participate. Register a team at warrenlibrary.com.
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Got a new baby or grandchild or niece or nephew?
Let The Valley Reporter help share your good news! Send birth
announcement and pictures to news@valleyreporter.com.
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From The Valley Reporter website
Lawson’s Finest adding beer garden and dog-friendly space
Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, is nearing completion of the permit process to create an additional 750 square feet of beer garden and a dog-friendly space at its Carroll Road brewery. The new space will provide additional outdoor seating at the brewery to accommodate 50-60 seats as well as a dog-friendly space for those visiting the brewery as well as those using the nearby Mad River Path trails.
READ MORE
Take Me Back - A Mehuron history mystery Part 1
 A few days ago, my husband Tom and I got a phone call from an antiques dealer. He said that Merrill’s Auctions and Appraisers in Williston would auction the Mehuron’s family archives the following day. We were surprised since we already have a healthy store of papers, photographs, and memorabilia of the Mehuron family carefully stored in our home.
Mad River Rec Hub debuts first-of-its kind resource recovery toilet
There’s a new, one-of-a-kind resource recovery toilet at the Mad River Rec Hub in Waitsfield. The toilet functions like any regular bathroom with the exception being that liquid and solid waste is separated. Misha Golfman, executive director of the Mad River Path Association, said that the toilet is the first of its kind in Vermont and was the result of a fruitful collaboration. . .
READ MORE
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The Valley Reporter
click link above for classifieds
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What’s happening in The Valley
October 30-November 23
“New Beginnings, Old Stories,” art exhibit by Benjamin Cheney, Axel’s Gallery & Frame Shop, Waterbury. Hours: Wednesday – Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
November 7-24
“Mauritius,” Grange Hall Cultural Center, Waterbury. A suspenseful thriller by Theresa Rebeck. Friday and Saturday nights, 7:30 pm, Sundays 2 pm. Info at grangehallcc@gmail.com. For tickets, visit https://sevendaystickets.com/events/mauritius
November 7-December 19
“Elemental,” A group art show at Valley Arts, Waitsfield. The exhibit speaks to the subject of water and its impact on people’s daily lives.
Saturday, November 16
Mad River Valley Rotary Club Meal Packaging Event, 10 am, Harwood Union High School cafeteria. Volunteers will assemble 14,000 rice-based meals for school programs and orphanages in the developing world.
Warren Library Puzzle Tournament, 11 am-1 pm, Teams of one-four people compete to see who can assemble a 500-piece puzzle. Both adult and mixed-age teams may participate. Register a team at warrenlibrary.com
Sunday, November 17
Mad River Valley Little League Annual Meeting, 4:30-6 pm, Mad River Glen. Adopting revised bylaws, election board members and officers. Proposed bylaws revision at MRVLL.org
Monday, November 18
Community Breakfast: Served Mondays from 8-10 AM at Evergreen Place, Waitsfield. Hosted by Mad River Seniors.Breakfast offerings include eggs, potato, meat, French toast, pancakes and more, including weekly specials. Cost $10-$15, as able.
Tuesday, November 19
Senior Luncheon, noon, Evergreen Place, Waitsfield. Hosted by Mad River Seniors Programs featuring local speakers are offered after each luncheon. Please check our website for specifics. All ages are welcome. Meatloaf w/mashed potatoes, string beans, tossed salad, wheat roll and banana pudding with vanilla wafers.
Tuesday Tunes: Cooie’s Trio, 5-7 pm, Lawson’s Finest Taproom, Waitsfield.
Wednesday, November 20
Fall 2024 Speaker Series – Vermont Public Transit and Mobility Services with Ross MacDonald, 6:30-8 pm, Yestermorrow Design/Build School, Waitsfield.
Saturday, November 21
The Big Kicker, 5-9 pm, Sugarbush Resort. Kick-off the 24/25 winter season at Mt Ellen with live music, a rail jam, bonfires, food, and drinks.
Monday, November 25
Community Breakfast: Served Mondays from 8-10 AM at Evergreen Place, Waitsfield. Hosted by Mad River Seniors. Breakfast offerings include eggs, potato, meat, French toast, pancakes and more, including weekly specials. Cost $10-$15, as able.
Tuesday, November 26
Senior Luncheon, noon, Evergreen Place, Waitsfield. Hosted by Mad River Seniors Programs featuring local speakers are offered after each luncheon. Please check our website for specifics. All ages are welcome. Thanksgiving Feast including roast turkey, stuffing, gravy, squash casserole, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, rolls, cranberry sauce and pumpkin, apple, and pecan pies.
Ongoing
Mondays, 10:30 am, Waitsfield Church/Village Meeting House: Free Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program classes focus on strength, flexibility and balance and include low impact cardiovascular exercises. Sponsored by the Warren Library, the Village Meeting House and the Central Vt Council on Aging. For information email agreshin@cvcoa.org.
Mondays, 7-9 pm: Mad River Chorale rehearsal. Harwood Union Chorus Room. Arrive early. Rehearsal for 2 concerts in December. Info at www.madriverchorale.org
Tuesdays, 4:45-6 pm, Conversational French Group, Joslin Memorial Library. Become more familiar with French language and practice conversing with others.
Wednesdays, 6-8 pm, Game Night, Joslin Memorial Library. Teens and adults welcome to play board games.
Wednesdays, 10:30 am, above the Warren Library: Free Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program classes focus on strength, flexibility and balance and include low impact cardiovascular exercises. Sponsored by the Warren Library, the Village Meeting House and the Central Vt Council on Aging. For information email agreshin@cvcoa.org.
Fridays, 1-3 pm, Craft Group, Joslin Memorial Library. Crafters welcome to participate in crafting group.
Hannah’s House Walk & Talk each Monday, 9:30 a.m. Enjoy The Valley surroundings, exercise, strengthen community connections and laugh. Call 802-496-9715 to get on the group email list for updates and venue changes. Free and open to all.
Gentle, chair-supported yoga for seniors. Fridays, 10 - 11 am. (No class Nov 1.) Waitsfield United Church of Christ Village Meeting House (back door entrance). Pre-registration not required. Cash or check (to Mad River Seniors): $7 per class or $25 for 5 classes. Info: Derek Bennett, 802-496-2543 derek@madriverseniors.org
Technology Course for Seniors, with Meredith Holch of the CVCOA. Every Tuesday and Thursday from Oct. 17 – Nov. 16, 10:30 – 11:45 AM, Evergreen Place. Devices will be available, or bring your own. Limited to 8 students; please register on form at Evergreen Place.
MRV Community Pantry open Tues. and Sat., 10 am-noon; Wed., 4-6 pm, behind Evergreen Place, masks optional. 802-249-3427.
Free Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program classes, Wednesday, 10:30 am, Warren Library. Sponsored by Central Vermont Council on Aging. Register onsite or online https://tiny.cc/cvcoawellness
Recovery Dharma weekly meeting, 7-8:30 pm, every Wednesday, Warren United Church, Explore relationship with alcohol or other addictive substances. Investigate avoidance and behavioral patterns.
Warren Public Library: Mon., Wed., Fridays 10-6; Tuesday and Saturdays 9-2. Story time Wednesdays, 10:45 am. 496-3913, www.warrenlibrary.com.
Joslin Memorial Library -- Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs., 10-5; Sat., 10-2. Storytime, Mon, 10 am. Curbside pickup -- request books at least one day in advance, 496-4205, joslinlibrary@gmail.com.
Moretown Library (Town Hall), Mon., Tues., Thurs., 2-6 pm; Fri., 10-2 pm; and Sat., 10-2 pm. Beginning Sept. 8 -- Read & Play, Fri., 10:30 am. Visit moretownlibrary.com. Request materials, 496-9728.
Meals On Wheels, home-delivered meals for seniors, call 496-2543.
Returnable bottles/cans may be donated to Waitsfield United Church (next to library), shed behind church.
For more local community events and additional information on the events, go to www.valleyreporter.com and click Calendar.
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Local Places of Worship
In this ever-changing environment we suggest you check web sites or call for most up to date information
Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church, Waitsfield
6307 Main Street
(802) 244-7734
Saturday, 6 pm
www.rccwwm.org
St. Patrick Catholic Church, Moretown
1000 VT 100B, Moretown
(802) 244-7734
Sunday, 11 am
www.rccwwm.org
St Andrew Catholic Church, Waterbury
109 Main St, Waterbury
802-244-7734
Saturday: 4 pm
Sunday: 9 am
www.rccwwm.org
St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church
Gallery at Mad River Valley Arts
Village Square
5031 Main St., Waitsfield
Church contact: (802) 496-5022
Sunday, 9:30 am
United Church of Christ, Waitsfield
Main St. Waitsfield
(802) 496-3065
Sunday, 10 am
www.waitsfieldchurch.org
Warren United Church
339 Main St. Warren
(802) 496-2713
www.warrenunitedchurch.org
Moretown United Methodist Church
962 Rt 100B, Moretown
(802) 496-8934
Sunday, 9 am. Second and fourth Sundays
https://www.facebook.com/Moretown-United-Methodist-Church-676245559085642
Beth Jacob Synagogue, Judaism, Montpelier, VT
10 Harrison Ave
802-229-9429
Fridays or Saturdays, differs each week
www.bethjacobvt.org
Both in-person and virtual
Jewish Community of Greater Stowe,
1189 Cape Cod Rd, Stowe, VT
(802) 253-1800
Friday, 6 pm
www.JCOGS.org
In-Person and Virtual
Chabad of Stowe-Waterbury
1357 Maple Street
Waterbury, VT 05677
518-360-7337
chabadofstowe.com
Living Tree Alliance
110 Living Tree Lane, Moretown
(603) 387-8697
livingtreealliance.com
Church of the Valley
5197 Main St 2b, Waitsfield
Saturday 6 pm
In-person; Masks required.
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