Vermont Country Sampler

Free

May 2008

Statewide Calendar of Events Map, Inns, B&B’s Dining, Real Estate Plenty of Good Reading!

Page 2 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

The Original

Vermont Country SamplerMay 2008, Vol. XXIII

Vermont Country Sampler Publishing Co.P.O. Box 226, Danby, VT 05739

Tel: (802) 293-5752 (1–5 pm) • Fax: (802) 293-5194vtsample@sover.net • www.sover.net/~vtsample

The Original Vermont Country Sampler is distributed free over-the-counter in and out of Vermont. Back issues, $2 per issue, fi rst class. Subscriptions $24/year.

Calendar of Events published free of charge. Mail your information to us by the 15th of the preceding month.

Advertising rates available upon request. Deadline the 15th of the preceding month.

We are not responsible for typographical errors. No material in this publication may be reprinted without permission of the publisher. ©2008. All rights reserved.

KLICK’SANTIQUES & CRAFTS

Bought & Sold

SPECIALIZING IN RAG RUGS,COUNTRY ANTIQUES, FOLK ART.Watch rag rugs & placemats being made

Open Mon–Sat 10–5 or by appointment19 Westminster St • Bellows Falls, VT

Just south of the square • (802) 463-9656

The Framery of VermontCustom Framing & Gallery

& Art Supplies Ready Made Frames

Quality Craftsmanship

Hours: Tues–Fri 9:30–5:30 pm • Sat 10–4 pm(802) 463-3295 • theframeryofvermont.com

22 Bridge Street, Bellows Falls, VT

Black Mountain Rd, Dummerston, VT 05301(2 miles west of Dummerston Center) • (802) 254-2146

~Our Own~

Famous Fine Farm FoodsGrown, harvested, and prepared for you

right here at Mountain Mowings!

3Hand Selected Gift PackagesIdeal for thank you and host gifts or just to take home.

Mary’s own handmade jams, fresh fruit syrups, maple icicle pickles, Grandma’s ketchup, maple syrup, and more. Call for brochure.

MOUNTAIN MOWINGS FARM

Open By Chance

We ShipAnywhere

Flames StablesRoute 100 South, Wilmington, VT

(802) 464-8329�

Scenic Year-RoundTrail Rides

Children Over 6 Can Ride AlonePony Rides for Younger Children

~ by reservation ~Great Family Fun at the Lowest Prices Around!

formation for participants interested in starting their own backyard fl ock.

The workshop fee is $5, participants are limited, and pre-registration is required. Children are welcome, but please, no more than two per

adult, and must be supervised at all times.

Fair Winds Farm is located on Upper Dummerston Rd. in Brattleboro, VT. For work-shop registration please call (802) 869-2141.

Backyard Chicken Raising Workshop at Fair Winds Farmphoto by Nancy CassidyMoss Glen Falls on Rt. 100 north of Granville, VT .

The workshop is led by Bekah Murchison who, with her parents, Jay and Janet Bailey, run Fair Winds, a diversified, horse-powered farm that has been raising chickens since 1978. The workshop is geared toward those with little or no ex-perience with chickens, and will inspire and provide in-

Repeating its highly suc-cessful workshop of a year ago, Post Oil Solutions, an organization promoting sus-tainability and community, is once again offering its Back-yard Chicken Raising Work-shop. This will be presented on Saturday, May 10, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., at Fair Winds Farm in Brattleboro, VT.

PIPPA’S SONGThe Year’s at the spring,And day’s at the morn;Morning’s at seven,The hillside’s dew-pearled.

The lark’s on the wing,The snail’s on the thorn:God’s in His Heaven—All’s right with the world!

—ROBERT BROWNING

The Exner Block provides live-work spaces for artists and retail spaces supporting the arts: Hillary Smith Patternmaker,

One Piece at a Time, The Gallery at 17, Hraefnwood Café

ROCKINGHAM ARTS AND MUSEUM PROJECT (RAMP)

Economic DevelopmentThrough the Arts

7 Canal StreetBellows Falls, VT 05101

(802)463-3252www.ramp-vt.org

Roots on the RiverAnnual Festival in Bellows Falls

• June 5–8, 2008 •

The Roots on the River Festival—Fred Eaglesmith Week-end, is coming to Bellows Falls, VT, June 5–8, 2008. One of Western New England’s favorite summer festivals, it offers great world-class roots music, free ample parking, terrifi c food and drink at reasonable prices, children’s activities, great festival merchandise, a musical equipment swap tent, and the best fans anywhere. Roots on the River is an unbeat-able four days of music and entertainment.

Thursday, June 5: Kicking off the weekend will be Lori McKenna in a concert at the beautifully restored 553 seat Bellows Falls Opera House. Mark Erelli will open the show. The Opera House boasts outstanding acoustics and lighting system, along with the most comfortable theatre seating in New England.

Friday, June 6: The Festival will host an Open Mic show at Boccelli’s On the Canal from 12 noon until 2 p.m. Details will be posted at www.rootsontheriver.com. At 4 p.m. the music moves to the Bellows Falls Farmers’ Market, across the canal from Boccelli’s. The Lonesome Brothers will be performing at the Market’s free concert.

Then on to The Big Tent behind the Everyday Inn for the Friday night show opening with The Lonesome Brothers. Then the The Bottle Rockets from Festus, Missouri, who are playing the Festival during their 15th Anniversary concert tour. And for their fi rst performance of the weekend, Fred Eaglesmith & The Flying Squirrels—Fred will be perform-ing many of his songs from the just released “Tinderbox.”

Saturday, June 7: Day-long line-up at the Big Tent. George’s Back Pocket featuring George Nostrand, Bellows Falls’ native son, Roger Marin, Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles, the Starline Rhythm Boys. Eileen Jewell, Robbie Fulks, Steve Forbert, and Fred Eaglesmith & The Flying Squirrels.

Sunday, June 8: Acoustic Concert at the Rockingham Meeting House, a 200 year-old landmark and oldest continu-ously operating public building in Vermont. With no elec-tricity, no running water and incredible acoustics designed to amplify the 18th century preachers it was built to accom-modate, we welcome back long-time Festival favorite, Mary Gauthier. Fred Eaglesmith & The Flying Squirrelswill round out the weekend with their third Festival concert.

Individual tickets ($22, $42, $99,) including kid’s specially priced Saturday tickets, along with weekend tickets ($99) and a limited number of deluxe weekend ticket packages ($130) are available online at www.rootsontheriver.com. and at these outlets and others: Bull’s Eye Music, Village Square Books, Fat Franks, and Boccelli’s on the Canal, all in Bellows Falls VT; Brattleboro Books, Brattleboro, VT; Misty Valley Books, Chester, VT.

For more information visit the festival website: www.rootsontheriver.com or call (802) 463-9595.

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 3

Curtis’ BarbequeFeaturing BBQ Pork,

Ribs & Chicken,slow cooked over an

outdoor open pit hardwood fi re. Corn on the cob, baked potatoes,

baked beans, Curtis’ own unique BBQ sauce.

We do catering.Curtis Tuff, Prop

Come enjoy our picnic tables and park-like grounds.

Now open for the season.

Rt. 5, Putney, VT (Exit 4 off I-91)(802) 387-5474 • www.curtisbbqvt.com

Curtis’ Barbeque

Lumber & Lumber Packages for Cabins, Garages, Houses, Camps, Barns, Saunas, Sheds, Etc.

Dick Walker Sawmill, Etc.Evergreen Rd., Fair Haven, VT 05743 • Phone & Fax (802) 273-2077

�

Check out our website—lots of pictures, plus map! www.dickwalkersawmill.com

If You Can Dream It, We Can Do It!

We Do Camps (pre-built) We Do Cabins

We Do Garages We Do Barns

by Bill Felker

The spring is fresh and fearlessAnd every leaf is new,The world is brimmed with moonlight,The lilac brimmed with dew.

Here in the moving shadowsI catch my breath and sing—My heart is fresh and fearlessAnd over-brimmed with spring.

—“May Night” by Sara Teasdale, 1926

Ephemeris for MayThe Gosling Moon

As carpenter bees settle into your eaves and siding, drilling holes and laying eggs, ducklings and goslings are hatching along the lakes and rivers. By the time the Gosling Moon grows dark, the young geese will be almost the size of your boots. By the middle of June, they will be half grown, and by the end of July, they will close to full size. May 5: The Gosling Moon is new at 7:18 a.m. May 11: The moon enters its second quarter at 10:47 p.m. May 19: The moon is full at 9:11 p.m. May 27: The moon enters its fi nal quarter at 9:57 p.m.

The Sun’s ProgressOn May 9th, the sun reaches three-fourths of the way

to summer solstice. Between this date and August 5th, the nation enjoys the longest and sunniest days of the year.

The PlanetsVenus moves into Taurus, low in the east near dawn.

Mars shifts back into Cancer, visible in the western sky from early evening until midnight. Saturn stays in Leo, fol-lowing Mars. Jupiter is in Sagittarius, rising in the middle of the night and moving along the southern horizon until it is lost in daylight.

The StarsMidnight in the middle of May reveals the constellations

of summer’s southern horizon: Libra centered in the south, Scorpius behind it in the southeast. Along the opposite horizon, Cancer and Gemini, the last remnants of winter, are setting in the northwest. Camelopardalis and Cassiopeia lie due north. Andromeda, outrider of late summer, moves up from the northeast. Shooting Stars: The Eta Aquarids are active on the 5th and 6th of May, but only a few meteors per hour occur with this shower.

Farming and GardeningWith the Moon and the Weather

April 28: Warm and wet weather is associated with this front, perfect for setting out shrubs and trees.

May: Major storms are most likely to occur on the days between May 8–14 and May 17–23.

May 2: “Lilac Winter” often arrives with the fi rst days of May, threatening frost to the northern states. Rising soil temperatures at this time of month invite commercial cabbage planting across the North and completion of the planting of oats and other spring grains throughout the central states. Cut fresh asparagus as it shoots up in the sun.

May 7: Mild days between the fi rst and second May fronts bring out the tomato and bean plants to the garden, but watch for frost between the 8th and the 12th. By the time this front passes through your fi elds, the remaining canopy of leaves closes quickly. Continue the seeding of fi eld corn and soybeans as conditions permit. Typically, the fi rst half of May is better than the second half for fi eldwork. Across the South, haying is in full swing in anticipation of wetter weather toward the end of the month. And strawberry time spreads North at the same rate as that of spring, bringing in the sweet, red berries all the way from Arkansas to Tennes-see and the Carolinas.

May 12: Just as tender bedding plants are set out before Mother’s Day, the last really dangerous, frost-bearing front of the spring moves across the nation. Two days after the passage of the May 12th cold wave, milder weather often occurs, helping the new seeds to sprout.

May 15: The Strawberry Rains often follow the arrival of the May 15th cool front (and the ripening of strawberries

photo by Nancy CassidyMother has twins, one black and one white. Count the legs, you’ll fi nd the other baby!

A Vermont Almanac for Middle Spring

in the southern and central states). Clouds and precipitation sometimes remain through the end of May, the stagnation refl ecting a general slowdown in the confl ict between spring and summer. Fields planted prior to late-May rains are almost sure to sprout now, but conditions are cool and damp.

May 20: The Strawberry Rains, accompanied by a host of slugs, may continue to plague pastures and hay fi elds as this front approaches, but plan to make the fi rst cut of alfalfa along the 40th Parallel after the high-pressure system comes through and the weather clears up. Canadian thistles and nod-ding thistles are blooming or are about to bloom throughout most of the nation.

May 24: Although the last week of May is often cool (bringing the last serious chance of frost to the North) gradu-

ally rising temperatures will soon be having an effect on the amount of food your livestock will need since metabolic rate rises with the thermometer.

5

More almanack information by W. L. Felker is available at www.poorwillsalmanack.com. To hear his weekly almanack on the radio, visit www.wyso.org.

Page 4 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

photo by William H. O’KaneSpringtime in the marsh back in 1938. Mike O’Kane, Alice Stehle, and Sally O’Kane investigate the polliwogs.

Fine American Craft

Textiles Blown Glass Pottery

Soaps Candles Woodw

orkPhot

ograph

y J

ewelr

y I

ronw

ork

I was sick this weekend and malingered a while by the backyard pond to watch tadpoles of the American toad. Their uncountable tiny black eggs appeared laced in the thinnest transparent tubes around the purple loosestrife during the fi rst week of April. Now they all have hatched, and I watch the pollywogs explore their habitat. The smallest ones remain where they emerged a day or so ago, resting in the algae. The largest, maybe a fourth of an inch long, are getting hind legs, and they have set out boldly to fi nd the limits of their habitat.

Zelda, a large bright orange koi with glittery golden scales across her back, ignores them. Emmett, a little smaller, white and black, pays no attention either. The tiny swimmers must not taste good to the fi sh, and the tadpoles treat them with complete indifference. When I put my hand in the water and swirl it around them, they are unimpressed, they show no alarm at all, completely intent on their investigation of the pond. Apparently oblivi-ous to enemies, they possess a confi dence that nothing can happen to them. They seem so intent on their journeys, so oblivious to danger, reckless in their faith that if they do what they were born to do, everything will be all right. A close-up look almost explains their attitude. Under a magnifying glass, their eyes are huge and black, almost as big as their whole bodies, intelligent eyes, intense and restless and deliberate like their bodies.

Their only need seems to be to reconnoiter and to search and to eat their landscape. They never look ambivalent. They are always on the move, always purposeful. After a minute rest on a stone or water plant, they set off again in a new direction. I have no doubt they know where they are going. They do not seem to need each other. The job of each one

�The Tadpoles �is to fi nd a way out of the pond alone. Each goes his or her own way, a way which may be totally predetermined by their bodies but obviously is also their own individual way since no two tadpoles ever seem to go in the same direction at the same time.

Except to follow the course of the day. In the morning, when the sun comes over the top of the house and strikes

the water, one by one they leave their nighttime retreat in the deeper core of the pond and work their way to the shallow west edge. They bask on the rocks, nuzzle the mysterious line where air and water meet. They root in the

water cress and the wiggle through the dangling roots of the hyacinths.

Then as the sun moves west, the little toads start to return east toward the pond’s darker center. By dusk, they have all migrated away from the quickly cooling shallows to the more stable water a foot or two below the surface. They stay there until the midmorning sun brings them back to the littoral plants, to the shore of small round stones which fascinates them and onto which they will soon climb and discover the grass and life in the open air.

—W. L. Felker

“They seem so intent on their journeys, so oblivious to danger, reckless in their faith that if they do what they were born

to do, everything will be all right.”

G

RANDM

A

M

ILLER

'S

pastriespies

SINCE 1994

Pies also available at:

Winhall Market in Bondville

Black River Produce inProctorsville

(3 miles east of Ludlow)

Th e Colonial House Inn& Motel in Weston

Jamaica Country Marketin Jamaica

~ Homemade Pies ~24 Delicious Assorted Varieties!

Maple Walnut • Pumpkin • Apple • Blueberry

Black Bottom Bourbon Pecan • Strawberry-Rhubarb Summer Berry • Raspberry • Apple Crumb • Cherry

Quiche and Lasagna. Chicken Pot Pies.

Coff ee Cake, Sticky Buns, Cookies & Breads.

Special Orders Welcome (802) 824-4032.

Come Visit Our Retail StoreAt Hearthstone Village, Rt. 100, 2 mi. S. of Londonderry, VT

Open Monday–Saturday, 8 am – 5:30 pm ®

“Have a cup

of coff ee or

tea and a

pastry in

our cafe area

and enjoy

the view!”

Lynne & David Nunnikoven

Bakers & Owners

Fresh Baked or Oven ReadyTake One Home Today!

ALL 4 PAWS & EQUINE BOUTIQUEALL 4 PAWS & EQUINE BOUTIQUEHearthstone Village, Londonderry, VT Hearthstone Village, Londonderry, VT

802-856-1323 • Open Mon–Thur 9:30–5:30802-856-1323 • Open Mon–Thur 9:30–5:30Fri 9:30–5:00 • Sat 9:30–2:30Fri 9:30–5:00 • Sat 9:30–2:30

• Great local tack shop, featuring Poulin Grain

• Specializing in all natural foods and products for all types of pets

Visit us at Hearthstone VillageVisit us at Hearthstone VillageLondonderry, VTLondonderry, VT

—We Have MovedWe Have Moved—

(On Rt. 100, just 1.7 miles south of our previous location in the Mountain Marketplace)

Weekly Wine & Beer Specials•

Call and Inquire about Our Wine & Beer Clubs

•• Special Orders Welcomed •

THE GRAPE CONNECTION•

“It’s a great connection to have”

(802) 824-37792 miles south of Londonderr y Hardware

3650 Route 100S, South Londonderry, VT

� AZALEA �

Today the dogwood bloomed and took my breath away,The azalea fl amed from pink to blood-red,The sun brushed emerald on the new young leaves,And my grandson ran laughing through the woods.Some say we’ll visit grand new worlds, and live again,And yet again. It may well be.But when I take fl ight, there’s one thing only I would

choose—The memory of one ordinary dayIn this,My own extraordinary world.

—ELISABETH DOREN O’KANE 1904–1998

(877) 877-2120 www.sover.net

Telecom Services: Experience, dependability and a commitment

to total customer satisfaction.“Sovernet was very timely, flexible and very helpful to me. I am delighted with Sovernet.” - Valerie, Bellows Falls

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 5

CROWS BAKERY

Breakfast • Lunch

CAFEOPERA HOUSE

Everything Made Fresh on the Premises!Artisan Breads • Pastries

Cakes • Pies

73 Depot Street by the Green in ProctorsvilleOpen Tues–Sat 6 am – 6 pm; Sunday 7 am – 5 pm

(802) 226-7007 • Fax: 226-7000

� QUESTIONS OF SPRING �

I saw a red-winged blackbird in the mock-orange bush today Among the puffed up blue jays, and he asked me:What is the great stillness I sense, below this dazzling surface?It is waiting, full of energy, patiently Holding the universe together

I saw the sunshine fi ll the day long past four o’clock And twice as bright against the snow, and it sang to me:What part of you has been asleep and now would like to wake?My joy, my love, my song, words of kindness, all have slumbered Faintly heard in muted tones

I saw the buckets on the trees, the branches quiet and bare Come alive in secrecy, and they whispered to me:Who’s been busy helping you and who could use your hand?Three deer taught me to smile and for my friend, who’s felt a loss, We’ll go and sit a while

I saw the river overfl ow, fi lled with ice and spray The echoed sound of water crashing, and she warned me:Are you fl exible in your heart, can you soften and stretch?Let a thousand springs come and fi ll me up, then say goodbye In the blooming chaos of summer

—ANDREW DONOVAN

QUIET CAMPING!

Open All YearSpecializing in Clean,

Quiet, Friendly Camping

We Have Large, Well Spaced Wooded Sites With Full Hookups

& Cable TV

Our Sites are in a 90- year-old pine forest and

the campground is a good base from which to explore

the beautiful scenic countryside of Vermont.

53 Skitchewaug TrailSpringfi eld, VT 05156

(802) 885-2889treefarmcampground.com

photo by Nancy CassidyA well-constructed beaver dam holds back spring run-off near Killington up in the Green Mountains.

Experience The Vermont Country Store

Sample Cheddar cut from a 38-pound wheel; rediscover

a long-lost brand, remedy, or toy; fill a bag with old favorites at the

candy counter—we’re stocked to the rafters with fun, practical, and hard-to-find merchandise.

Weston (Rte. 100) and Rockingham (off I-91 on Rte. 103),

open daily, 9-5:30; Weston’s Bryant House Restaurant,

daily, 11-3:30; Fri. & Sat. 11-8.

T H E O R T O N F A M I L Y B U S I N E S S S I N C E 1 9 4 6

vermontcountrystore.com 802-824-3184

Join the AdventureJoin the

Green Mountain

Club!Protecting and

Maintaining Vermont’s Long Trail Since 1910Send $35 Individual Fee$45 Family Fee to the:

Green Mountain Club4711 Waterbury-Stowe Rd.

Waterbury Center, VT 05677

(802) 244-7037 gmc@greenmountainclub.orgwww.greenmountainclub.org

Preserving Vermont’s Last Great Places

Since 1960

27 State StreetMontpelier, VT 05602

(802) 229-4425 • Website: www.tnc.org

Here’s a chance to help contribute to fi sheries con-servation efforts in Vermont. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department are asking for volunteer help with the stocking of land-locked Atlantic salmon fry into the Huntington River on Saturday, May 24.

The inch-long salmon fry will be scatter-stocked into shallow areas where they will grow for two to three years before migrating out to Lake Champlain to mature and eventually return to the rivers as adults.

Landlocked salmon fry have been stocked annually in the Huntington River since 1998 in an effort to help re-store landlocked salmon to Lake Champlain. Fisheries biologists from both agencies hope this effort will contrib-ute to increased returns of adult salmon to the Winooski

River and provide increased fi shing opportunities in the lower Winooski. Many of the returning adults will be col-lected in the Winooski One Hydroelectric Facility’s fi sh trap at the “Salmon Hole” in Winooski. They will then be trucked upstream past three dams and released, giving them access to spawning areas in the Winooski River drainage, including the Hun-tington River.

Volunteers are asked to bring a clean five-gallon pail. You also may want to bring a pair of hip boots or chest waders, but they are not necessary if you don’t mind getting your feet wet and cold. Unless water fl ows are unusually high, stocking will take place rain or shine.

Interested people should contact Nick Staats at the Es-sex Junction Fish & Wildlife Offi ce at (802) 879-5679.

Help Stock Salmon Fry in theHuntington River on May 24

Vermont’s black bears have emerged from their winter dens and are looking for springtime food sources. If you have been feeding birds, you can help prevent the bears from getting into trouble by removing your bird feeders now according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.

“We are getting reports of bears getting into bird feeders,” said Fish & Wildlife’s Col. Robert Rooks. “We are urging people to help by removing any food sources that may tempt the bears.”

“We are asking people to stop feeding birds from April through late October,” added Rooks. “Also, don’t leave pet food outside, wash down your barbecues when done, and se-cure your garbage containers. And above all, never purposely leave food out for bears. Feeding bears may seem kind, but it is almost a sure death sentence for the them.”

“Help keep bears wild,” said Rooks. “We care about these bears. Having to destroy one that has become a threat to human safety is not a pleasant experience, and we know that moving them to another location doesn’t change their behavior. They continue to seek food near people because they have learned that it works.”

Rooks also points out that Vermont law prohibits a person from killing a bear that has been attracted to a bird feeder. The fi ne for doing so can be as high as $1,000.

Bears often eat seeds in the wild, so a birdfeeder chock full of high-energy seed is a concentrated source of what a bear considers natural food. And they are smart. Once they learn to raid birdfeeders, they will be back for more, often escalating their behavior to obtain food.

To learn about black bears, go to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s: www.vtfi shandwildlife.com and look in the Library Section for the Black Bear Factsheet.

Remove Your Bird Feeders To Avoid Tempting the Bears

Page 6 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Natural & Organic Food ~ Local Products

335 River St., Springfi eld, VT802-885-3363

Large enough to meet your needs, small enough to meet your neighbors!

Jack’s DinerRoute 103 S., Chester, VT

(802) 875-1062 Open Daily 5–9

Delicious Daily Specials • Homemade DessertsFriday Night Fish Fry • Take Out Available

�Home-Style Cooking �

Taylor Farm

Taste a New Vermont Tradition FARMSTEAD CHEESE

Visit Our Farm Store & Cheese Shop Open Every Day 10 am – 6 pm.

We Make Our Own Award-Winning Farmstead Gouda Cheese!

—Farm Festivities—Cheese Making, Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides,

Woodworking/Forging, Farm Animals, and More!

825 Rt. 11, Londonderry, VT(20 min. from Manchester or Stratton)

(802) 824-5690. TaylorCheese@comcast.net.www.taylorfarmvermont.net

When you are young, you are unaware of how your interest in the grownups in your life will deepen in your later years, especially when triggered by old letters and mementos. And then it is too late to fi nd out more, with relatives gone, except for when a treasured letter surfaces to remind us of them and—if we are lucky—perhaps of ourselves.

While sorting through old fi les, I came across a large faded envelope that contained a letter from my Aunt Kate, along with carbon-copies of issues of the “Kincaid Kopeck,” a pretend newspaper I was writing at age fourteen. Everything was imaginary in that newspaper of mine, except for the very real subscription offers, which my elderly Aunt Kate dignifi ed with her response. Appar-ently I had sent her the special issue in 1944, with its pretend news, fake advertisements, reviews of made-up movies and books, and stories by make-believe authors like Canter-bury Mayfair.

Aunt Kate, my grandfather’s double cousin, lived with my mother’s family while they were growing up. In later years she lived with various cousins. I remember her as tall and spare and humorous. Her handwriting reflected her personality with its evenly spaced lines, no waste of margins, and fanci-ful curlicues. Her letter of August 17, 1944, reminds me of why I chose to name my daughter Kate after her.

•Dear Sall y,

Your “Special Issue” of the “Kincaid Kopeck” was very gratefully received yest erday. I had been thinking for quite a while that I’d like to hear from you, but just hadn’t got around to write to you.

The “Special Issue,” tho perhaps not intended to be a messenger of personal news, tell s me quite a bit about yourself, and suggests several questions, the answers to which, will tell me quite a bit more. Th us I know you are busy as of yore, digging up something new and original. I know you must be profi cient with the typewriter, for there isn’t a mistake, or a corr ected mistake that I can see on the whole page,

A Letter From Aunt Kateby Sally O’Kane McClintock

and I know you are not afraid of the future or you wouldn’t dare promise a biweekly paper for next year.

Now for the questions which my curi-osity prompts me to ask, but which you needn’t answer if the answers are none of my business. Why the name “Kincaid Kopeck,” which sounds so very Dutch, and “Canterbury Mayfair” which is all English? Do the various pen names all be-long to one person or has the editor several associates of like mind with herself?

Th e sp ecial adv. issue is very att ract ive, along with its valuable advice, but it seemed to me a bit ambiguous or was I a lot stupid? When I fi rst read it I thought the 5 items presented were suggestions of Christmas presents for me to buy to give to my friends, but no prices were given and I am always shy of that kind of ad, for fear the price is too high to be mentioned, but has to be approached graduall y. So I read it over again and with Marion to help me to interpret it, I decided that it might mean a Christmas gift to myself, to be selected from the very tempting fi ve.

Of course my fi rst choice was no. 1. Th en I thought that looked piggish as it would mean so much work, so my second choice is no. 2, which I’m sure is great and will require less labor. If I have misunderstood the whole thing, just forget it. I shall be hoping to hear from you soon.

Love and Best Wishes to all , Aunt Kate•

I expect I sent Aunt Kate the answers she sought, though she probably sensed them. I was the sole writer, with several pen-names. The “special adv. issue” was missing from the envelope and I can only guess the “gifts” offered were subscriptions to the “Kincaid Kopeck” and my own illustrated poem books.

As I re-read her letter, I wished I knew more about Aunt Kate. She was a smart and articulate woman—what did she do with her life? My cousin Beth recalls Aunt Kate sewing dresses for her and her sister, and

always putting a cube of sugar in the pocket. Though Aunt Kate never went to college, she helped relatives with their college expenses. She died in 1945 at age 80.

Aunt Kate’s endearing and enduring let-ter, written to me a year before her death, reveals much of her. Perhaps this is the real Aunt Kate—indulgent, wise, and curious, as

well as humorous and appreciative. Athough 64 years have passed since she named my strengths in her letter, I am just as encouraged now at 78 as I was at age 14.

I hope I will always live up to her estima-tion of me as “busy as of yore, digging up something new and original, and not afraid of the future.”

• Spring Fiddlehead Recipes •

MARINATED FIDDLEHEADS5 lbs. fresh fi ddleheads 1 lb. fresh wild leeks, ramps Fresh peppers—hot or or shallots mild to taste Fresh herbs (cut fi ne)—basil, 5 cups apple cider or tarragon, thyme, rosemary wine vinegar and chives.5 cups extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp. sugar salt to taste

Clean and rinse fi ddleheads. Blanch fi ddleheads in boiling water for 1 minute. Remove from heat, drain and rinse in cold water to cool them. Clean and cut up peppers, wild leeks and fresh herbs. Pour vinegar over cooled fi ddleheads in a non-reactive container. Add cut up peppers, wild leeks, herbs, sugar and salt. Stir to wet all ingredients. Add olive oil and stir again. Refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.

QUICK MARINATED FIDDLEHEADSRefreshing all year long—everyone loves these crunchy spiral morsels. Keeps well in refrigeration.

5 lbs. fresh fi ddleheads 1 lb. fresh wild leeks, ramps Fresh peppers—hot or or shallots mild to taste Fresh herbs (cut fi ne)—basil, 5 cups apple cider or tarragon, thyme, rosemary wine vinegar and chives.5 cups extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp. sugar salt to taste

Clean and rinse fi ddleheads. Blanch fi ddleheads in boiling water for 1 minute. Remove from heat, drain and rinse in cold water to cool them. Clean and cut up peppers, wild leeks and fresh herbs. Pour vinegar over cooled fi ddleheads in a non-reactive container. Add cut up peppers, wild leeks, herbs, sugar and salt. Stir to wet all ingredients. Add olive oil and stir again. Refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.

886-4979 Route 106, N. Springfi eld, VT

SALE ON WESTERN TACKMon–Fri 11–5:30, Sat 10–4, & Sun 10–4

FIDDLEHEAD AND HAM CASSEROLEOkay, this qualifi es as comfort food. Had a tough day? A cold day? A special day worth celebrating? This is an absolutely delicious meal that doesn’t need any special occasion. It’s made from fi ne quality, simple ingredients and there’s noth-ing like it to hit the spot on a cold spring evening. Serve it with crusty bread, a green salad, and fresh fruit.

4 tablespoons butter 4 tablespoons fl our2 cups milk ½ teaspoon salt1 Tbsp. chopped parsley 1 teaspoon chopped chives1½ cups ham, trimmed, 3 cups fi ddlehead ferns, diced and cooked steamed until cooked but Buttered bread crumbs still crisp

Make a smooth white sauce of the butter, fl our, milk and salt. Add the parsley and chives to the sauce. In a casserole, alternate layers of ham, cooked fi ddleheads, and the white sauce until the dish is fi lled. Complete it with a layer of the white sauce on top. Cover the top of the dish with buttered crumbs and bake at 350°F until the sauce is bubbling and the crumbs are browned. This should take about 30 minutes.

FIDDLEHEAD, WHITE BEAN AND SHRIMP SALAD

1 pound cooked shrimp 15-ounce can white beans,1 cup trimmed and cleaned drained and rinsed fi ddleheads, blanched 1 cup diced red onion until tender 3 tbsp. rice wine vinegar4 tsp. chopped parsley Salt and ground pepper

Combine all ingredients except parsley in a bowl. Refrig-erate for 1 hour. Toss in the parsley. Divide among 4 plates and serve with crusty French bread. leek greens. Add salt and pepper to taste, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Serve the fi ddleheads topped with the sauce. Serves 4 to 6.

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 7

A multitude of antiques, collectibles and crafts. Over 250 booths featuring fi ne furniture, primitives, folk art, farm implements, quilts, books and bottles.

Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm. (802) 875-4477.Route 103, Chester, VT. 8 miles west of Exit 6, I-91.

Stone House

ANTIQUES CENTER

Rural Needs From A To Z

Est.1952

A…Ax & Adze HandlesB…Bird Seeds & FeedersC…Canning Jars: ½ pt. - ½ gal.D…Diamond Farrier ToolsE…Electric FencingF…Feeds & FertilizersG…Garden ToolsH…High Tensile FencingI…IPM Pest ControlJ…Jingle BellsK…Kids Gloves & MittensL…Leader Evaporator DealerM…METALBESTOS ChimneyN…Non-GMO SeedO…Organic Feeds & FertilizersP…Pet SuppliesQ…Quality Hand ToolsR…RosinS…Stove Pipe: 3” - 10”T…Tanks & TubsU…Underground FencingV…Vermont ProductsW…Wire, Welded & WovenX…Xtra ServiceY…Yard ToolsZ…Zappers for Rats & Mice

R. B. Erskine, Inc.Grain & SuppliesChester Depot, VT

802-875-2333Mon-Fri, 7:30-5:00; Sat 7:30-3:00

Now Stocking* Back To Basics

* Merrick’sSpecial Orders

Good Service Everyday Low Prices Much, Much More

GREEN MOUNTAIN FEEDSCertifi ed Organic

Chester VermontChester Vermont

CURTIS’ ALL AMERICAN RESTAURANT

Open Wednesday-Sunday For Lunch and Dinner

(from 11 am on)

All-You-Can-Eat Sunday BrunchNoon to 2 pm • $12.95, 10 & under $6.99 Barbeque • Eat-in or Take-out • Beer & Wine

We Do Catering • (802) 875-6999

Rt.103, south of Chester, VT

Rt. 10 Between N. Springfi eld and Gassetts. Look for Totem Pole.

Tom and Janice CoutuIroquoi/Mohawk

with 25 Years Experience

Leather Work and Repairs—Equine, Saddle, Tack, and Motorcycle.

(802) 353-8733, (802) 353-8762Open Fri and Sat 9–5 or by chance

Native AmericanIndian Country Crafts

& Unique Originals

Steiff Show:September 13, 2008 – 1 p.m.Vermont Teddy Bear Artist Day:Sept. 20, 2008 – 10 am to 4 pm

244 Main St., Chester, VT (800) 325-0519www.huggingbear.com

Upcoming Events!

Inn & Teddy Bear Shoppe

Spring Workshops

Sustainable Agriculture & Organic FarmingThe Northeast Organic Farming Association-VT (NOFA-

VT) sponsors a variety of interesting and informative spring workshops and helps to publicize some of the great opportu-nities to attend other symposiums, conferences, and tours.

Workshops are held rain or shine, so be prepared for in-clement weather. To register, for more information, and for more offerings go to www.nofavt.org or call the NOFA-VT offi ce at (802) 434-4122 or e-mail info@nofavt.org. Here is just a sampling of what is available.

� Spring Schedule �Historical Logging Practices. May 10, 2008, 8 p.m.,

Simpson Hall, Sterling College, Craftsbury, VT. This day-long workshop will introduce participants to the chal-lenges faced by loggers in this area in the late 1800s. Hand tools—the felling axe and crosscut saw—and horses will be used to bring down trees and extract them to the landing. The day begins in the logging shop as we sharpen tools and prepare for work. After a morning in the woods, we will eat a hardy lunch prepared over an open fi re, then return to the woods with a horse to extract the day's logs. We’ll hear stories, encounter hardship, solve problems, work with 19th century logging technology and principles, and relive a bit of local history. Cost: $125. Contact: Heidi Wilson, (802) 586-7711, hwilson@sterlingcollege.edu. www.sterlingcol-lege.edu/folk.html.

Wild Edible Feast. May 10, 2008, 10 a.m. Wisdom of the Herbs School, South Woodbury, VT. The spring offers us much welcomed local, fresh wild food. Come harvest, prepare and eat a variety of tasty wild edibles! Gain the confi dence you need to prepare common wild foods. You will go home with a handout of wild food recipes. Pre-registration requested. Cost: $80. Contact: Annie McCleary, (802) 456-8122.

Taste of Place Luncheon. May 22, 2008 12 p.m. Inn At Shelburne Farms. Celebrate the publication of The Taste of Place: A Cultural Journey Into Terroir as author Amy Trubek leads you through a guided tasting lunch. Each course will be an exploration of the natural environment, regional traditions and artisanal practices of the items featured on the menu. Cost: $30. (802) 985-8686. www.shelburnefarms.org.

“Menu for the Future” Vermont Earth Institute Discus-sion Course. May 27, 6 p.m. to July 1, 7:30 p.m. Shel-burne Farms, Shelburne, VT. This six-week community discussion course led by Food Systems Coordinator Phoebe Garfi nkel, explores the connection between food and sustain-ability. Topics include: “From Field to Fork,” “Farming for the Future,” and “Local Food Communities.” Cost: $25. (802) 333-3664. www.vtearthinstitute.org.

Wild Edibles. May 31, 2008 10 a.m. Hulbert Outdoor Center, Fairlee, VT. For teens. Youth Environmental Sum-mit sponsored by the Association of Vermont Recyclers, Hulbert Outdoor Center. Interested teens can apply on line, www.vtrecyclers.org.

photo by Nancy CassidyAn old Stockbridge, VT farm in the spring with trees abloom in the dooryard.

Come see our gardens at their very best! The Friends of the Horticultural Farm invite you to their Annual Bloom-Time Festival on Saturday, May 17, 2008, held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at UVM’s Horticultural Research Center in So. Burl-ington, VT, also known as the “Hort Farm.” Admission is free and family groups are welcome.

The public is invited to experience the beauty of the Hort Farm’s extensive collections of crabapples, lilacs, viburnums and other fl owering plants in bloom. More than 700 kinds of ornamental trees and shrubs are planted at the Hort Farm with one of the largest known mature ornamental crabapple collections in the Northeast, over 120 kinds!

Workshops and self-guided tours are offered. Rain Gardens will be presented by Emma Melvin and Jessica Andreoletti.

Paul Wieczoreck will lead a Tree Walk from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Enjoy a walk to the new bat house while learning about the world of bats. The Bat Workshop is led by Barry Genzlinger, (Chiroptera Cabin Company), from 12–1 p.m.

Lilac Curator and VT Master Gardener Jeff Young will be on hand all day to walk with you through the Hort Farm’s award winning Lilac Collection. Smell the beautiful fragranc-es and admire the lilacs in full blossom. See the beautiful blush pink/white Russian ‘Beauty of Moscow’ considered by many to be the most beautiful lilac.

Lilacs and a portion of the research plants will be on sale to benefi t the Hort Farm.

The festival is co-sponsored by Friends of the Horticultural Farm, Burlington Garden Club, Branch Out Burlington, Burl-ington Parks Department and Winooski Parks Department.

The UVM Horticultural Research Center is at 65 Green Mountain Dr. off Rt. 7 in South Burlington, VT. For informa-tion or to join the Friends of the Horticultural Farm, call (802) 864-3073 or visit www.friendsofthehortfarm.org.

Bloom-Time Festival a Springtime Delight!

Now open for our 18th season!

STONE VILLAGE FARM ER’S MARKET & GARDEN CENTER

Open 7 days a week from 10 am to 7 pm.

Route 103N, Chester, VT (12 miles s. of Ludlow)Marketeers Dave Cram & Anna Coloutti

Vegetable & fl ower bedding plants from our own fi ve greenhouses.

Flowering hanging baskets, window boxes, patio pots.

Fresh cut fl owers, fl oral arrangements,

and gift items

Local produce & baked goods.

THE WARMTH OF SPRINGLittle colts caper and kick up their heels.They race toward their mothers when ready for meals.Wobbly-kneed calves stand close to the barnOut of the wind where it’s sheltered and warm.Woolly lambs, all of them, know right awayThat the fi rst thing to do is to learn how to play.New kittens are mewing; new mice try to squeak;New birds in their nests will fl y in a week.In spring, in warm weather, all over our farm,There’s hardly a baby that hasn’t been born.

— DOROTHY ALDIS

Page 8 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Skiers • Hunters • Fisherman

Cut Leaf Maples MotelHostess–Sandy Grover

(802) 375-27253420 Historic Route 7A, Arlington, Vermont

Breakfast • Cable TV Wireless Internet • Petswww.virtualvermont.com/cutleafmaples

e-mail: cutleaf@verizon.net

Faller Music Co.SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS-Percussion -Pianos-Keyboards -Guitars-Printed Music -Amps-Band & Orchestral Instruments

“Life’s too short, Don’t forget to play”

170 N. Main St., “Downtown” Rt 7, Bennington, VT802-442-4977 • 800-544-6792

Open 7 Days • (802) 375-2743

4095 VT Route 7A, Arlington, VT

CHEM-CLEANFurniture Restoration• Safe Removal of Paint/Varnish

• Expert Repairs • Custom Finishing

• Hard to Find Furniture Products

“Springtime in Vermont.” An acrylic primitive by Susan Houghton Debus. To see more of her work, visit her Danby Dog Art Studio at Danby Four Corners, VT—please call ahead, (802) 293-2489.

the chocolate barndid you know that

we offer 65 varieties of hand-dipped chocolates and our famous fudge—gift wrapped?

we mold solid milk, dark, or white chocolate fi gurines from over 500 antique molds?

we have two fl oors of fi ne antiques and Americana?

and we have much more!

the big brown barn onhistoric route 7a in shaftsbury, vtopen daily since 1976we ship (802) 375-6928

C&C TeesDriving RangeFamily Farm Setting

�

OpeningMid-April

(802) 447-7655

West Mt. Rd., Shaftsbury, VTOff Historic Rt. 7A

8 miles north of Bennington15 miles south of Manchester

CLEAR BROO

K

F A R MStart Your Garden in Vermont

We grow the widest selection of plants in the area.All the newest specialty annuals and 1000’s of perennials.A fabulous selection of Trees and Shrubs (many natives).

� We are the place for Vegetable Garden starts � Certifi ed Organic: Tomatoes (over 45 varieties), Onions, Leeks,

Peppers (over 30 varieties), Eggplant, Lettuce, Broccoli, Cabbage, etc.

Open Every Day 9 am – 6 pm • Opening for Plant Starts the First Week in May

Rt. 7A, Shaftsbury, VT • (802) 442-4273 (Across from the Chocolate Barn)

Organic Seeds.Unique Collection of CeramicPottery.

Come see us at Manchester Farmers Market at the

Recreation Center Thursdays,

3–6 pm.

Mrs. Murphy’sDonuts & Coffee

Rts. 11 & 30, Manchester Center, VT

(802) 362-1874

Specialty CoffeesCustom Ground

______

50 Varietiesof Donuts, Muffi ns

& PastriesBaked Daily

Historic Route 7AArlington, VT

Quiet family campground.Full RV hookups and tenting.

The Pratt Family • (802) 375-6663Toll Free: (800) 830-6663 • Fax: (802) 375-2920

I have always been fasci-nated by old things: tools, furniture, letters, photo-graphs, bottles…if it is old it always draws me in. I love to wander around in dark, dusty old barns that look like they were abandoned 100 years ago, and come across a rake or a shovel leaning casually against the wall as if it were placed there with the intention of being used tomorrow. I pick it up and I can almost hear the voice of the farmer who once used it. I notice a repair or maybe two or three…repairs made to what was a very valuable object to this family: a simple shovel.

It is a completely absorb-ing activity for me to go to a dump site, forgotten for decades, and unearth a piece of pottery. Usually, it is only pieces that I fi nd, and that’s ok. I look at the pattern, imagine what it was used for when it was a whole vessel, and I appreciate it for what it is now. Old things have been my life’s work: my vocation and my avocation. A cap

from a bottle of soda from the depression era always makes me wonder, “Who drank this? Was he or she wealthy or a kid who saved pennies in a rusty tin under the front porch, until they had enough to buy this treasured elixir.”

These items — broken, lost, and forgotten—become my art. Just like observing people who dare to weep at a sunset or cry out loud at the loss of a friend, sometimes we are much more beautiful when we are “broken” and

• Found Objects•

by Jack Metzgerthe years have put us back together with more depth, feeling and “life.” I sincerely hope that you enjoy these “pieces of life” as much as I do.

The Bennington Museum is presenting “Pieces of Life,” an exhibit of Jack Metzgers photographs and sculptures created from found objects, through May 3. Allowing the beauty of seemingly mundane objects to speak through the ages has allowed Metzger to

bring out the art in almost anything. The museum is located at 75 Main St. (Rt. 9), Bennington, VT. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, closed on Wednesdays. (802) 447-1571. www.bennington-museum.org.

Jack Metzger welcomes your comments or a visit to his shop, Jack’s Outback Antiques, 30 West Main St., Cambridge, NY 12816. He’s there Thursday through Sun-day. E-mail is mmuncil@verizon.net.

The 21st Annual “Famous Tinmouth Plant Sale” and Bake Sale/Car Wash/Bottle Drive will be held Saturday May 10 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. in beautiful downtown Tinmouth to benefi t the Tin-mouth School.

Hardy perennial flower plants, most of which have been raised organically, will fi ll the lawn at the Tinmouth Town Office. The elemen-tary students have raised the annual veggie and flower

seedlings. Delicious treats will be offered for sale. And the 5/6 grade class will hold a bottle drive and a car wash. Come get flowers, shrubs, treats and a sparkle shine for your car.

Plants can be viewed prior to the 8:00 a.m. starting bell, but no selections or pur-chases will occur before 8 a.m. Bring your own boxes or containers to carry plants. The Tinmouth sale is well known due to its large selec-

21st Annual Famous Tinmouth Plant Saletion of hardy perennials for both sun and shade (2,000 plants in 2007) and reason-able prices. Due to popular demand, $3 this year. Ex-perienced gardeners are on hand to answer questions and help with plant choice. All proceeds benefi t Tinmouth School.

For more information, call the school at (802) 446-2458 or Cathy Reynolds at (802) 446-2928.

www.beanvt.com • (802) 362-0110

BOB’S MAPLE SHOPOpen Weekends Or Call

The Best PureVermont Maple Syrup!

BEST PRICES!Decorative Glass • Maple Candy

Maple Sugar • Gift BasketsWholesale-Retail

(802) 362-3882 or (802) 362-4556.

733 Richville Rd, Manchester, VT3.2 miles down from Rts. 11/30

Open daily from 7am Closed Wednesday802.867.0101 essexgreenbakery.com

route 30, dorset, vermont

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 9

yarnsblack

sheep

Come and see us Call to sign up

for ongoing classes.Black Sheep Yarns, 25 Stonewall Lane

just off Route 30, in Dorset, VT.

Open daily 10–5, closed Tuesdays. (802) 362-2411.

H.N. WILLIAMS STOREFamily owned and operated since 1840

2732 RT. 30, DORSET, VT 05251(802) 867-5353

Carhartt®

Original Equipment Since 1889™

Th e stars burn white, But the stars burn cold;Th e moon hangs sallow And chilly and old.

Down in the shed New lambs bleat;Th ey tott er and tremble On weak black feet.

• Prayer For Early Lambs •

With wary eyes And lambent tongueTh e old ewes hover Over their young.

Th e frost-pricked air Is bleak and raw.Th e gray lambs shiver Against the straw.

—Bessie Marlin Mason

photo by Nancy Cassidy

Temper the winds, Lord, Th eir fl eeces are thin; Send enough springtime To wrap them in.

We would like to announce the opening of our Equinox Compounding Pharmacy

at our Manchester location.

34 Ways LaneManchester Center, Vermont

Telephone: (802) 362-0390Fax: (802) 362-0391

We wish to thank the residents of Manchester

and the surrounding communities for the warm

reception given to the opening of our pharmacy.

Cones • Sundaes • Floats • Drinks

Sil

ver

Sp

rin

gs

Sco

op

s

Ice Crea

m S

tan

d a

nd

CartCart: Serving at Manchester Park, Applejack

Field and Hildene Events. (802) 362-3454 Stand: Rte. 7A South, on right, just past

Equinox Valley Nursery—Look for our signs.

Cones • Sundaes • Floats • Drinks

Silver Springs Scoops

Manchester, VT“A Vermont Family Tradition”

Ice Cream Stand and CartCones • SundaesFloats • Drinks

Opening Mid-May!

“Buy Direct From a Farmer”

Open Year-Round, 9 am – 7 pm Daily

Rt. 30, Newfane, VT(802) 365-4168

�Rt. 11/30

Manchester, VT(802) 362-3083

�Rt. 9, W. Brattleboro, VT

(Opening early May)(802) 254-9612

Greenhouses Now Open!

Come Walk-Through & Step into Spring!

Mother’s Day gifts, potted plants, potting soils, peat moss, fertilizer, seeds, cow manure, and mulches.

Our Own 2008 Maple SyrupHomemade Baked Goods

Jumbo Cookies, Fresh Fruit Pies, Pastries, Breads. Our Own Jams, Jellies, Honey

and a wide selection of Vermont Cheeses.

Fresh ProduceAsparagus, New Parsnips, Salad Greens,

Gilfeather Turnips, Potatoes, and all your favorite fresh vegetables! Citrus and other fruits. Fresh Apples

from our own orchards.

Homemade Fudge in Many Flavors.Free Samples of our Fresh Sweet Cider.

We Have Creemees!

— Gift Certifi cates —

Page 10 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Charlie’s TreasuresOngoing Indoor Flea Market and Tag Sale

New items weekly. Collectibles, crafts, tools, a little bit of everything. Table space for rent.Open Sat & Sun 8–4:30, Weekdays by chance.

(802) 446-2274, 353-0996.

Route 7, South Wallingford, VT(The old Charlie’s General Store)

H A R D W A R E

34 Maple St., just off Route 7

Wallingford, VTWinter Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 7:30 am – 6 pm

Sat 7:30–5, Sun 8–5, closed Tuesdays

Tel: (802) 446-2133 • Fax: (802) 446-2132

Tony & Jan Esposito, New Owners

Over 70,000 Products Available.

Free Shipping to Store.

www.nailitdownhardware.com

photo by Wayne LarocheFishermen try their hand with trout on the Willoughby River in northern Vermont.

Vermont Waterways Are Now Open for Trout FishingThe opening of Vermont’s trout fi shing season in mid-

April marks the beginning of another year of memorable angling experiences, alone, or with family or friends, at streamside, or on quiet lakes and ponds.

Early trout fi shing provides a great reason to get outdoors, enjoy the sun and try your luck at catching colorful brook, brown or rainbow trout.

“This year’s trout season signals the start of another year of enjoyable fi shing on Vermont streams and lakes,” said John Hall with the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.

Mom’s Country Kitchen

Freshly PreparedHomecooked FoodsOpen Monday–Saturday

6:30 am – 2 pm, Sun 7 am – 1 pm.

Come & Enjoy! Breakfast Served All Day.5 Main Street, Wallingford, VT • (802) 446-2606

“Although lakes and ponds will still have some ice, op-portunities for good trout fi shing will be available at inlets and outlets.”

“Stream fi shing will be best where the current is slower,” he added. “Look for fi sh along the bottom in deep pools, on the inside of curves and behind large rocks. It takes more weight than normal to make a bait, lure or streamer fl y bump along the bottom, but it’s the most effective way to present your offering to early spring trout.”

Anglers are reminded to use sinkers that are not made of lead. It is unlawful to use a lead sinker weighing one-half ounce or less while fi shing in Vermont. Weighted fl y line, lead-core line, downrigger cannonballs, weighted fl ies, lure, spoons, or jig heads are not prohibited.

Planning a Vermont fi shing trip is easy. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has a Fishing Guide map showing lakes and streams and fi shing access areas. It lists the fi sh spe-cies found in each body of water, and it has a wealth of other information. Copies are available where fi shing licenses are sold, or from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, The Vermont Outdoor Guides’ Association helps locate fi shing guides and overnight facilities on the web: www.voga.org.

Vermont fi shing license fees are $20.00 for adult residents, $8.00 for residents 15–17 years of age, $41.00 for adult nonresidents, and $15.00 for nonresidents 15–17 years old. One, three and seven-day fi shing licenses also are available for nonresidents. Children under age 15 do not need a fi shing license in Vermont. Licenses are available at agents statewide and from Fish & Wildlife’s website.

For more information contact the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, 103 South Main St., Waterbury, VT 05671-0501. (802) 241-3700. vtfi shandwildlife.com.

Program originally provided fish for derbies or posted kids’ brooks (sections of streams posted for fishing only by children under li-cense age). The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has provided the kids with free trout for more than three decades. It supplies about 20,000 eight-to-ten inch trout for the program, each event receiving 150 to 300 fi sh.

These fi shing events start in late April and continue through June.

A list of the Kid’s Fish-ing Events, appears on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s website: www.vtfi shandwild-life.com.

Here’s a great opportunity for young people to give fi sh-ing a try. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has re-leased a list of 70 upcoming fi shing events, most for kids, but some for senior citizens and handicapped persons.

The “Children’s Fishing Program,” provides kids with the chance for a success-ful fi shing experience. The “Let’s Go Fishing Program” teaches fi shing techniques, tackle craft, ethics, and aquatic ecology and man-agement. Most events are open to the public, although they may be restricted to town residents or a particular group of individuals.

The Children’s Fishing

Kids’ Vermont Fishing Events

Vermont ForgingsCome See a Working

Blacksmith Shop

& Gallery

hand forged iron

41 Cook Dr. at Rt. 7, just south of Wallingford, VtOpen daily — 802 446 3900 — vermontforgings.com

Tinmouth Snack BarNow open for the season!

Open daily 11 am – 9 pmPicnic tables, indoor dining, or curbside.✶Hamburgers, hot dogs, homemade fries,

onion rings, fried vegetables, salads, and much more.✶Chicken, clam, fi sh, and scallop dinners.

✶Strawberry shortcake, and fresh baked pies, Wilcox Ice Cream (soft-serve and hard).

Wednesday Night Dinner Specials~Home-Style Cooking~

Rt. 140 in the Village of Tinmouth, VT(6 miles west of Rt. 7, at Wallingford turn onto Rt. 140)

(802) 446-3310

Drivers need to be alert and cautious because moose are on the move, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Moose are more likely to be crossing road-ways at this time, especially after dark or early in the morning as they move from wintering areas to spring feeding locations.

More moose are hit by motorists in May and June than at any other time of the year. “A total of 237 moose were hit by motor vehicles on Vermont highways dur-ing 2007,” said Col. Robert Rooks of the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. “We are asking drivers to be espe-cially careful and for people to enjoy watching moose from a distance. They can be unpredictable and dangerous if you get too close and they feel cornered or get irritated. “Please keep a safe distance away from any moose you may see.”

Moose are a threat to mo-torists, but there are measures you can take to avoid hitting them, according to Fish & Wildlife:

* Always be aware of the danger — moose cross the road randomly, as well as at their regular crossings.

* Increase your roadside awareness and reduce your speed when you see MOOSE CROSSING signs along the highway. When on second-ary roads, the recommended speed is 40 mph or less in these moose crossing areas.

* Drive defensively and don’t overdrive your head-lights. Moose are more active at night and early morning hours, and they are diffi cult to see because of their dark color.

* If you see a moose ahead, slow down or stop. Trying to speed past them “before they can move” can be a serious mistake.

Vermont highway sections most frequented by moose:

Rt. 105 from Island Pond to Bloomfi eld.

Rt. 114 from East Burke to Canaan.

Rt. 2 from Lunenberg to East St. Johnsbury.

I-91 at Sheffi eld Heights.I-89 from Bolton to Mont-

pelier.Rt. 12 from Worcester to

Elmore. Rt. 118 near Belvi-dere Corners and the Rt. 109 intersection.

Fifteen people have died in motor vehicle collisions with moose on Vermont highways since 1985.

Avoiding Moose on the Highway

Simply Simon’s

Home & GiftTreasures for the Heart & Home

Unique Handcrafted Items

Jewelry, cards, artwork, table top, lamps, candles and other decorative accessories.

(802) 446-2860 • At the historic I.B. Munson House

37 S. MAIN ST., WALLINGFORD, VTwww.simplysimonshomeandgift.com

Mention this ad for a Free Gift!

FUNCTIONAL STONEWARE & PORCELAIN POTTERY

Sumio Seo & Kate Goetz4254 Route 7 | South Wallingford, VT | Open Daily

hboropottery@vermontel.net | 802.446.3705

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 11

“Housewarming Party 1905”

Folk Art PaintingsAnd Reproductions

by Susan Houghton Debus•

DANBY DOG ART STUDIO1764 Timouth Rd., Danby Four Corners, VT

(1.5 miles north of Danby Four Corners)

Open Most Days—Call Ahead • (802) 293-2489

Dan GarceauFine Handcrafted Furniture

Custom FurnitureBuilt-In Cabinets

Open 10–5 Friday through Monday

or by appointment

in the former Peel Gallery, Rt. 7, Danby, VT(802) 293-5895 • dangarceau@vermontel.net

Southern

Vermont

Dairy Goat

Assocation

www.southernvtgoats.org

For all your on-the-road needs!

Mt. Tabor Country StoreRt. 7, Mt. Tabor, VT • (802) 293-5641

Groceries, Cold Beer & Soda, Ice, Videos.Citgo Gas, Diesel, Self-Storage Rentals.

Store Open 6 am – 8 pm, Sunday 7 am – 7 pm�

Full Deli: Pizza, Hot Dogs, Salads, Cold Cuts, Sandwiches Made to Order

Daily dinner specials including: meatballs, shrimp, chicken fi ngers, deluxe hamburgers.

Open till 7:30 daily, 6:30 Sunday.

Welcome!

This is a good time to get out enjoy the beautiful spring weather before it turns really hot. Between now and the end of May we have to be careful about hiking on the fragile trails.

Here are some outings for you, sponsored by the Killington Section of the Green Mountain Club, that are safe for both you and the trails. Newcomers and non-members are wel-come to join us and there is no charge. Bring drinking water and a lunch. Wear sturdy footwear, dress appropriately for the weather, and be prepared for weather changes. Distances are round trip and are approximate, as are elevation gains.

Unless otherwise stated the outings leave from Rutland’s Main Street Park, near the east end of the fi re station. Call the leader listed if you have any questions.

Saturday, May 17 Long Trail Spring Cleaning

Everybody is welcome to join us to help with our annual cleanup and maintenance preparing the Long Trail for the summer hiking season. We'll clear water bars, trim brush, and cut blowdowns on the lower elevation stretches. Bring work gloves, sturdy shoes, water, and lunch; tools will be provided. Have fun in the woods while doing a good deed. (The rain date is May 18). We’ll start at 9:00 a.m. Call for more information. Leader: Herb Ogden, (802) 293-2510.

Saturday, May 24North Branch Trail to Silver Lake, Goshen, VTHike from Moosalamoo campground to beautiful Silver

Lake with a possible extension to see the Falls of Lana. Moderate, 6.5 miles. Meet at 9:00 a.m. (The rain date is May 25.) Leader: Sue Thomas, (802) 773-2185.

Friday, May 30 – Saturday, May 31GMC Annual Meeting, Waterbury, VT

This year's meeting of the state-wide Green Mountain Club will be at the club headquarters in Waterbury Center. Learn about the activities of the main club, meet like-minded folks from across the state and beyond, and choose from a dozen hikes in the central Vermont area. For more information, log onto www.greenmountainclub.org or call (802) 244-7037.

Sunday, June 1Gilmore Pond, Bristol, VT

Hike to a remote pond in the Bristol Cliffs Wilderness. Easy to moderate, 3 miles. 9:00 a.m. Leader: Jerry Parker, (802) 775-6208.

Saturday, June 7National Trails Day Maintenance, Killington, VT

Volunteers all over the country will be out today clearing brush and waterbars, cutting blowdowns, and painting blazes, readying the trails for the summer hiking season. Join us to work on our local treasure, the Long/Appalachian Trail. Bring work gloves, sturdy shoes, and lunch; tools will be provided. (Rain date: 6/8.) 9:00 a.m. Leader: Herb Ogden, (802) 293-2510.

Sunday, June 8Senior Shuffl e (or Black Fly Ramble)

Tinmouth, VTStroll by Chapman Lake and visit the grave of early Ver-

mont Statesman Nathanial Chipman. Bring bug juice! Easy, 3 miles. 10:00 a.m. Leader: Roma Pulling, (802) 773-6997.

Saturday, June 14Bike Trek

Pedal along old roads and a discontinued railroad bed. Call leader for details and meeting time and place. Moder-ate, 15 to 20 miles. (Rain date: 6/15.) Leader: Bill Holt, (802) 537-4227.

8

For further information about the GMC Killington Sec-tion events, visit our web site: web.mac.com/gmckillington. For GMC membership and activities contact the Green Moun-tain Club at (802) 244-7037, gmc@greenmountainclub.org, www.greenmountainclub.org.

Join The Green Mountain Club on a Spring Outing

photo by Barbara Griffi thHikers from the Killington Section of the Green Mountain Club enjoy the Saltash vista with Lake Ninevah in the background. For more information about the GMC hikes, visit

www.greenmountainclub.org.

1820 House of Antiques82 South Main Street

Danby, Vermont 05739802-293-2820

Open Thursday–Monday 10–5

green mountain sugar housePRODUCERS OF VERMONT’S FINEST MAPLE PRODUCTS

COUNTRY GIFT SHOP VERMONT PRODUCTS MAPLE CREAMEES

FOR FREE CATALOGUECALL 1-800-643-9338WE SHIP ANYWHERE!

4 MILES NORTH OF LUDLOW ON RT. 100 OPEN DAILY 9–6 • (802) 228-7151

www.gmsh.com gmsh@tds.net

Page 12 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Located at Fairwood LanesRt. 22A, Fair Haven, VT • (802) 265-3377Serving Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

“Home Cooking at its Best”Everything Homemade from Soups to

Desserts. Daily Specials. Open Tuesday–Saturday 8 am–8 pm,

Sunday 8 am–2 pm, Monday 8 am–2 pm

Reasonable prices. Senior discounts.

Eleventh Frame Eatery

HAZEL’S GIFT SHOPDolls • Doll Houses

Toys • Home Made ItemsOpen daily 10 am to 9 pm

Fair Haven, VT • 802-265-4437At the corner of Prospect St.,

One mile east of the Welcome Center on Old Rt. 4A

Bridal Accessories

Dee’s DesignsSewing Plain or Fancy

Custom Sewing, Alterations, Repairs, CostumesRt. 4A, W. Hydeville, VT • Dee Luther • (802) 342-7803

Off Rt. 22 in North Granville, NY. Watch for signs!

Specializing in Homemade Pancakeswith our own Pure Maple Syrup…

French Toast and Waffl esRathbun’s is family-owned operating since 1961. A place where

people are greeted with a smile and feel the comforts of home.

MAPLE SUGAR HOUSE

RESTAURANT

Open Sat & Sun 7 am – 1 pm518-642-1799

Rathbun’s

www.rathbunsmaple.com

Where life is the journeywashingtoncounty.org

Washington County Tourism Association • 888-203-8622

� Gift Shop �

A Work in Progress

36 Main Street, Granville, NY Colleen Nadeau—owner • (518) 817-0003

For all your cardmaking

and scrapbooking supplies.

Craft classes & birthday parties, too!

Open Tues–Fri 10–5, Sat 10–2

photo by Nancy CassidySheep graze in the meadow under a fallen but still blossoming apple tree in Sunderland, VT.

RoxiesFrench Fries Cut Fresh to Order

It’s What We’re Famous For! Half Pint $2.50 • Pint $4.50

Quart $6.50 • Cheese or Gravy $1.00

Also Burgers • Hot Dogs • Sandwiches • Ice CreamOur Own Homemade Relish • New Extended Menu

Route 4A—Castleton, VT West of Castleton Corners. (802) 468-2800

Open 11:30 am to 9:00 pm, 7 Days a Week

Jan’s Green HouseJan’s Green House�Open Daily, Rt. 22A, Hampton, NYOpen Daily, Rt. 22A, Hampton, NY

—1 mile south of Fair Haven, VT—

Annuals, Perennials, and Veggie PlantsAnnuals, Perennials, and Veggie Plants

Window Boxes and Hanging BasketsWindow Boxes and Hanging Baskets

Ritchie Rd., off Rt. 22, just over the border.Middle Granville, NY

Matthew Ayers • (518) 642-2199

Come on Out For Some Great Golf!

Open Seven Days—Daylight till Dark.

The Mettowee Par 3

Fresh and silk fl ower arrangements, bouquets,

gifts, fruit baskets. See us for Mother’s Day.

(518) 642-2087

36 MAIN ST., GRANVILLE, NYOpen Mon–Fri 9–5, Sat 9–1

Wild and Cultivated Flowers You Can Eathave a perfumed fl avor. The fl avor may be very intense, so use them sparingly. Lavender prefers a light, well-drained soil and full sun.

Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)—The common Lilac, a familiar shrub sometimes seen growing next to abandoned farm-houses (and in yards everywhere) is remarkably hardy and easy to grow. An added bonus is the beautiful purple or white “lilac-scented” fl owers in late May and June. The fl owers, which have a delicate fl oral fl avor, make a beautiful garnish or can be added to vanilla frozen yogurt for a treat.

Mint (Mentha sp.)—Mints are clean-smelling, hardy perennials. Members of the mint family are characterized by their square stems. The fl avor of the fl owers is minty, with different overtones depending on the variety. Bee Balm and Lemon Balm are members of the mint family.

Rose (Rosa sp.)—Roses can be shrubs or climbers. Some are hardy, some are not. They all prefer rich soil and full sun (except for a few species that will grow in some shade) The beautiful, perfumed fl owers, which come in shades of pink, red, yellow, or white, have a perfumed fl avor. It is important to remove the sour petal base.

Scented Geranium (Pelargonium sp.)—This is a tender perennial usually grown for its scented leaves. Scented gera-niums come in many “fl avors,” ranging from rose to nutmeg to lemon and mint. The fl owers may be white, pink, red, or purple and resemble the fl owers of the annual ivy-leaved Pelargonium. The fl ower fl avor generally corresponds to the variety. For example, a lemon-scented geranium would have lemon-scented fl owers.

Squash Blossoms (Cucrbita pepo sp.)—The blossoms of the annual squash plant are a vibrant yellow color and pos-sess a mild vegetable fl avor. They prefer soil enriched with organic matter and full sun. Squash blossoms, like daylilies, may be stuffed or made into fritters.

Remember that fl owers aren’t just appealing to the eyes or nose. Many are edible and can be used to add a “touch of spice” to your everyday dishes.

For more information contact Leonard P. Perry, Exten-sion Professor, Department of Plant and Soil Science, can be contacted at 11 Hills Building, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, (802) 656-0479. Check out Perry’s Perennial Pages at www.uvm.edu/~pass/perry/.

by Rebecca SlaterIf you do all your shopping at the grocery store or local

farmer’s market, you are missing out on some interesting foods, those found in your own backyard. I’m talking about edible fl owers.

Here are some you might want to sample:Apple (Malus sp.)—Apple blossoms have a mildly sweet,

fl oral fl avor. These trees grow wild in some parts of the Northeast. If you eat blossoms from cultivated apples, make sure they haven’t been sprayed yet. They also work well as a pretty pink and white garnish.

Calendula (Calendula offi cinalis)—Calendula is a lovely, self-seeding annual. The deep yellow or orange petals add a beautiful touch to a green salad and can also be used as a garnish. Calendula has a slightly bitter fl avor, and it best used with tangier greens.

Chicory (Cichorium intybus)—Chicory is a common roadside weed with beautiful periwinkle blue fl owers in midsummer. Many people who lived through the Depression remember making a coffee substitute out of Chicory. Make sure you don’t pick fl owers on heavily traveled roads because of the pollution absorbed by the plant. Chicory has a pleasant, mild-bitter taste that has been compared to endive.

Dandelion (Taraxacum offi cinale)—Yes, this is the com-mon weed. If the yellow fl owers are picked young, they have a sweet, honey-like fl avor. Mature fl owers are bitter. Do not eat Dandelions from lawns that have been sprayed! As you know, Dandelions will grow just about anywhere.

Daylily (Hemerocallis fulva)—Daylilies, which are hardy, indestructible perennials, have lovely blossoms in many shades. Their fl avor is a combination of asparagus and zuc-chini. Some people think that different colored blossoms have different fl avors. They make a nice garnish and may be stuffed for hors-deuvres or made into fritters.

Lavender (Lavendula sp.)—Lavender is a beautiful and wonderful smelling perennial or small shrub depending on where you live. The fl owers are lavender, of course, and Discover the area’s best

selection of fi ne yarns, patterns, accessories,

and knitting inspirations.�

Classes too!Open Wed & Fri 10–5Thurs 10–8, Sat 10–4

150 Main St., Poultney, VT802-287-4114

stitchywomen@verizon.netMary Lee Harris, Owner

SPRINGTIME ON THE FARMSpring is on the hillsideSpring is everywhere,In the hills and valleys, Even in the air,

Hyacinths and tulipsPushing with their might,Breaking out of prison,Seeking for the light.

Happy birds are building,With a merry song,Nests to house their babiesWhen the days are long.

Life itself is stirringWith its radiant charm.Oh, what is half so wonderfulAs springtime on the farm!

—EUNICE E. HEIZER

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 13

THIRTY YORK STREETFINE COLLECTIBLES and ANTIQUES

“Specializing in the Country Taste”Collectibles · Antiques · Pottery · Glassware · China

American Dinnerware · Children’s BooksOpen most business hours and Sunday afternoons197 YORK STREET · POULTNEY, VERMONT

802-287-2078 · www.thirtyyorkstreet.com

Mart’s Sporting GoodsHunting & Fishing Supplies

—Open 7 Days—

85 Main St., Poultney, VT(802) 287-9022 • Martin VanBuren Jr.

Guns & Ammo • Custom Arrows

Matthew’s Solo Cam Bows

Archery Supplies

Lacrosse Boots

Quality FabricQuilting Patterns • Classes

Store Hours: Wed & Fri 10–5, Thurs 10–8, Sat 10–4Formerly Sew Happy • Linda Graziano, Owner

150 Main St., Poultney, VT802-287-9700 • sewhappy6@verizon.net

Country Quilt & Fabric, Inc.

Commercial & Custom

Slaughtering& Processing

Call for scheduling

The Wing Family • Over the Hill Farm502 Stage Rd., Benson, VT • 802-537-2811

VOF #01038 • USDA Plant #31561 Certifi ed Organic Facility

Northeasts Finest

“Abattoir”

It’s Maple Time at

GREEN’S SUGARHOUSE

1846 Finel Hollow Rd., Poultney, VT802-287-5745

www.greenssugarhouse.com

��Quality Maple Products

Maple Syrup, Maple-Coated Nuts, Maple Creams and Candies,

Specialty Maple Spices.

Free Samples & Catalog. We Ship.Guided tours, please call ahead.

The Finer Consigner�

A Different Store Everyday!Featuring upscale new and lightly used

clothing and accessories for the entire family. Designer and name brand fashions.

Gently used furniture and household items.

Open Mon 12–5, Tues—Fri 10–5, Sat 9–3 (518) 642-9565

Now Accepting Consignments

85 Main Street, Granville, NY

photo by Jeff GoldSpring wildfl owers abound in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

163 Main St., Poultney, VT • (802) 287-9111Open Mon–Sat 9 am – 5 pm, Sun 10–3

www.vermontnooksandcrannies.com

THE ORIGINAL VERMONT STORE

Spring is in the Air!Celebrate Mother’s Day

& Graduation Gifts & Cards ~ Gift Certifi cates

Unique Gifts to Honor Mothers & Graduates ~ Homemade Fudge

Planting the GardenAnd Other May Gardening Tips

by Dr. Leonard Perry and Dr. Vern GrubingerUniversity of Vermont

Hopefully, by May, you have done all your planning for the garden because this is the month to plant, even in the coldest parts of Vermont. Are you ready?

Planting starts with preparation of the soil, including a soil test to determine the soil’s pH or acidity level and its available nutrient level. Most vegetables and fl owers prefer a soil pH of 6 to 7 and plenty of calcium and magnesium. Adding lime is the way to correct the pH of acid soils, and it’s a good means of adding calcium to the soil. If your soil is low in magnesium, applying a “high-mag” limestone can solve that problem, too.

Your crops also need high levels of phosphate and potash to perform well. A soil test will provide you with fertilizer recommendations for these nutrients which, like lime, should be mixed into the soil prior to planting. You can obtain a soil testing kit from any University of Vermont (UVM) Extension offi ce and many feed and garden stores. There is a small fee. In addition to nutrient recommendations, the lab will send you information on organic fertilizers, if requested.

Preparing the soilTo prepare your garden for planting, you will need to

rototill the soil to a depth of eight to ten inches to work in the recommended lime and fertilizers as well as compost or well-rotted manure. That also will incorporate any leftover plant residues from last season. Break up clumps to help aerate the soil.

However, if you are not adding fertilizers, and your soil has good tilth from previous years of compost or manure additions, you can skip the rototilling. Instead, just use a shovel to loosen the soil in the rows before planting. This will avoid the damage to the soil structure that frequent rototilling can cause.

If you are going to lay black plastic to control weeds and warm the soil, it’s important to remove sticks and stones, then rake a very smooth seedbed. If the surface is lumpy and uneven under the plastic, it will not warm the soil as well as when there’s a nice tight fi t.

If you have soil that contains a lot of clay, raised beds may be the answer to warm up the soil faster and drain excess water away from plant roots, thus reducing the likelihood of soil-borne diseases. Use a rake, shovel, or a furrower on a garden tiller to gather soil into ridges. Flatten out the ridges with a rake to form beds that are at least four to six inches high and as wide as the crop growth habit will require.

Of course, before rototilling or spading your garden, you should make sure the soil has dried out enough because working wet soil will harm the soil structure by causing compaction. Test by squeezing a handful of soil. If it forms a ball, the soil is too wet to be tilled. If it crumbles, then it’s okay to till and plant.

What to plant whereHow do you decide what to plant where? Unless this is

your fi rst year having a garden in this spot, it’s important to rotate your plantings. This means not planting the same fam-ily of crops where you planted them last year. This practice aids in the control of diseases and insects and varies the fertility demands on the soil.

You also need to take into account the mature size of your plants. Unless shading is desired, be sure to plant tall plants

like sunfl owers or corn where they will not shade out lower growing plants. And leave plenty of room for sprawling crops like winter squash. In small gardens, some vine crops like cucumbers can be trained to grow up onto wire fencing thus saving space.

Timing is everythingWhen to plant is another important consideration, unless

you will be diligent about using frost protection, such as fl oating row covers or paper or cardboard caps.

As a rule, in early May you can plant lettuce, spinach, peas, beans, root crops (carrots, turnips, beets, onions), cole crops (Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, caulifl ower), early sweet corn, and some fl owers such as gladiolus. Although potatoes can be planted now, delaying planting may ward off disease problems like rhizoctonia (the dirt that won’t wash off), which is common in cold, wet soils.

Wait until Memorial Day or later to put in warm-season transplants (peppers, eggplants, tomatoes), marigolds, and zinnias or to sow squash, cucumbers, and other seeds that

Mrs. T’s Country StoreHomemade

daily luncheon specials,

cookies and muffi ns.

Groceries, Hot Chocolate, Cappuccino, Beer, & Soda. Breakfast Sandwiches & Subs. Gas!

Open Daily 8 to 8 • (802) 265-2226 (Across from Bomoseen Inn)

Route 4A, Hydeville, VT

require warm soil to germinate. Other activities for May: buy fl owers for your mother on her day; set up a drip irrigation system for the hot gardening months to come; divide crowded perennials; put up hummingbird feeders in early May; and don’t forget to enjoy the lilacs while they are in bloom!

Leonard P. Perry, Extension Professor, Department of Plant and Soil Science, can be contacted at 11 Hills Build-ing, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, (802) 656-0479. Check out Perry’s Perennial Pages at www.uvm.edu/~pass/perry/.

TRAK-INRESTAURANT

Rt. 30 North, Lake Bomoseen, VT

Celebrating our 51st Year on the Lake!Dinner Daily 5 pm to closing.

Early Birds 5 pm to 6 pm, Sunday–Friday.Reopening for the season Friday, May 9.

Reservations (802) 468-3212 or (802) 468-5251

Eat at the Trak-In with this coupon and get $5.00 back in cash with every entree from the

regular menu. Coupon good May 14 through June 26.

✂

Up-Country Gifts & CraftsCome see us!

Hydeville Plaza, Rt. 4A, Bomoseen, VT(802) 468-3053

Open Wed–Sat, noon to 5:30 pmLake Bomoseen T-Shirts

A Nice Variety of Loose Teas

~ We Have Genuine Sheepskin Products ~

HOME SEWING15 RT 4A, CASTLETON CORNERS, VT

No job too large or small

Formals, Costumes, Alterations, Etc.Reasonable Prices • Arts & Crafts

Native American including Dream Catchers, Suede Vests, and more.

Mon–Fri 9–5, Sat 9–noon • (802) 468-2202

Page 14 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Weekly SpecialsWednesday—Chicken & Biscuits $9.95

Thursday—Meatloaf $9.95

Friday—Fish & Chips $9.95

Saturday—Prime Rib: Queen $15.95

Sunday—Wednesday Nights: Pizza $10.95 and up

HOURS: Breakfast—Sat & Sun 7–11:30 amLunchDaily—11 am – 2 pm

Dinner—Wed thru Sun 4:30–9 pm

Take-out Available • (802) 438-5696

Westway Plaza, Main St., W. Rutland, VTFamily Owned—Don and Carole Woods

Vermont Map

Marlboro

Benson

THE LAMB

Little Lamb, who made thee? Dost thou know who made thee?Gave thee life and bid thee feedBy the stream and o’er the mead;Gave thee clothing of delight,Softest clothing, woolly, bright;Gave thee such a tender voice,Making all the vales rejoice? Little Lamb, who made thee? Dost thou know who made thee?

Little Lamb, I’ll tell thee; Little Lamb, I’ll tell thee;He is called by thy name,For He calls Himself a Lamb.He is meek and He is mild,He became a little child.I a child, and thou a lamb,We are called by His name; Little Lamb, God bless thee! Little Lamb, God bless thee!

— WILLIAM BLAKE

Owned and operated by a registered pharmacist,

Th e Vermont Herbal General Store has all the answers you need!

Th eVermont

G E N E R A L S T O R E

Reiki Healings & Classes

Pet Th erapy

Healing Herb GardenTraining & Installation

Storemade Herbal MedicinesTeas, Lotions, Capsules • Nature’s Cures • Chinese Ear Cloning

578 Main St., W. Rutland, VT • (802) 438-2766Open: Th urs & Fri 11–6, Sat 10–6, Sun 11–4

www.vermontherbal.com

GREENMOUNTAINAWNING, INC

36 Marble St., W. Rutland, VT802-438-2951 • 800-479-2951

Retractable Welded Residential Patio Covers

greenmtawning@verizon.net

“Quality Service & Canvas Products Since 1935”Ask for Bob or Bill • The Awning & Flag Guys

We Canvas The Green Mountains & Beyond!We Canvas The Green Mountains & Beyond!

FLAGS!

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Mixed Hanging Baskets, Specialty Annuals,Vegetable Sets, Perennials & Herbs,

Farm Fresh Eggs.“Grown By Us…Quality For You!”

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Timberloft Farm Store

(Look for the big farm market arrow just off Rt. 4B, West Rutland.)

Open Daily 10 am – 6 pm

TOM’S Bait & Tackle

Certifi ed Live Bait���Spikes & Wax Worms���

Just west of Rt. 30Route 4A, Bomoseen VT���

Open 7 Days a Week

Spring Hours: 6 am – 6 pm, Sundays till 3 pm

(802) 265-8654 • tomsbait@comcast.net • Rob Steele

Pacifi c Energy ProductsPellet Stoves • Fireplace

& Stove FurnishingsMetal Chimney Systems

Open Fri & Sat, 10 am – 3 pm

COUNTRY STOVES43A Woodstock Ave, Rutland, VT • (802) 775-6289Complete Majestic—Vermont Castings Product Line

Service calls made on days the store is closed. Alan Currier, Owner.

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 15

Vermont CountryCalendar

ONGOING EVENTSBELLOWS FALLS. Second Sunday Song Circle. All acoustic. Hosted by Julie Waters. 7–9 pm. RAMP lobby, 9 Canal St. Contact Julie at: 2ndSundays@juliewaters.com or call (802) 451-1947 to confi rm. Juliewaters.com. June 18 then 2nd Sundays of the month.

BELLOWS FALLS. Third Friday Art Walk. Stores and galleries in town and in the surrounding area host special exhibits and events. 5–8 pm. (802) 463-9404. villagesquarebooks.com. Monthly on the third Friday.

BELLOWS FALLS. Bellows Falls Farmers Market. A vibrant community market with great farm products, ready-to-eat food and live music. Free. 4–7 pm at Visitors Center. Great Falls Regional Chamber of Commerce, 17 Depot St. (802) 463-3669. fl yradar@sover.net. www.bffarmersmarket.com. Fridays May 16 through October 17.

BENNINGTON. Bennington Battle Monument. Events include Fourth of July celebration with a Colonial Herb Demonstration and The Vintage Voices Fashion Show; Bennington Battle Day on August 16 and 17 with an encampment, cannons ceremonies and re-enactors. The Monument and gift shop at 15 Monument Circle in Old Bennington, is open 9 am to 5 pm daily through October 31. Admission: $2 adults, $1 children 6–14, children 5 and under free. (802) 447-0550. www.bennington.com. www.HistoricVermont.org.

BRANDON. French Roundtable. Meet and practice your French speaking. Everyone and any ability welcome. 9:30 am. Briggs Carriage Bookstore, 16 Park Street. For more info: (802) 247-0050. books@briggscarriage.com. www.briggscarriage.com. Meets Saturdays weekly. .

BRANDON. The Country Owl Studio Art & Craft School, 8 Conant Square. Classes and workshops in fi ber art, primitive painting, doll making, rug hooking, drawing, stenciling, folk art painting, and more. For schedule, registration and information call Dolores Funari at (802) 247-3695. www.brandon.org/owl.htm.

BRATTLEBORO. Brattleboro Area Shape Note Singing. All are welcome to come sing. Potluck snack will be shared. 1:30–4:30 pm each third Sunday. St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 16 Bradley Ave. Info: Peter Amidon, (802) 257-1006. www.fasola.org.

BRATTLEBORO. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center. The Museum and gift shop open daily except Tuesday. In Union Station at Main St. (Rt. 5) and junction of Routes 119 and 142, downtown. (802) 257-0124. www.brattleboromuseum.org.

BRATTLEBORO. Gallery Walk. Monthly celebration of the arts in downtown and nearby locations! 20 to 30 or more galleries, cafes, retail shops, and inns, many with meet-the-artist receptions with refreshments. Live music, dance, theater. First Fridays from 5:30–8 pm. Free. (802) 257-2616. www.GalleryWalk.org.

BRATTLEBORO. Post Oil Solutions meets frequently and sponsors events with a mission to advance cooperative, sustainable communities in an age of global climate change and declining fossil fuels. Contact Tim Stevenson at info@postoilsolutions.org or www.postoilsolutions.org.

BRATTLEBORO. Fair Winds Farm Nature Trail. A lovely one-mile loop trail winds its way through fi elds, forests, and along a brook, on very gentle terrain. Self-guided, with a nature trail guide. Free of charge. Enjoy the trail, farm animals, gardens, and farm store. At Fair Winds Farm, a “Diversifi ed, Horse Powered, Vermont Family Farm” on Upper Dummerston Rd. (802) 254-9067.

BURLINGTON. First Friday Art Walk. Galleries, studios, and interesting venues all around town. See works in progress and fi nished works. Get a map and explore. Free. 5–8 pm. (802) 264-4839. www.artmapburlington.com.

CHESTER. Gallery 103. Dedicated to promoting fi ne American Craft and Design, with an exclusive showroom of Junker Studio Ironwork. Monthly “Featured Artists.” Gallery is open Wed–Mon, 10 am – 5 pm. On Rt. 103, just south of town. (802) 875-7400.

COLCHESTER. English Country Dance. First, third & fi fth Fridays through mid-June 2008. Live music on third Fridays. 7–9:30 pm at the Elley-Long Music Center. For info contact Val Medve (802) 899-2378 or valandtom@together.net.

DANBY FOUR CORNERS. Danby Dog Art Studio. Folk Art, Primitive Paintings & Reproductions by Susan Houghton Debus. Open most days—please call ahead. Studio is located at 1764 Tinmouth Rd, 1.5 miles north of the Four Corners Store. (802) 293-2489.

EAST THETFORD. Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center. A certifi ed organic, fi fty-acre vegetable and berry farm. Farmstand and pick-your-own, Hello Cafe with wireless internet, seasonal events. Open Tues–Sat 10 am – 6 pm, Sun 10 am – 5 pm. Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center, 225 Pavillion Rd off Rt 5. (802) 785-4737.

growing@cedarcirclefarm.org. www.cedacirclefarm.org. Open through October.

FAIRFAX. Acoustic Music Session. Every Saturday from 1–4 pm at the Foothills Bakery.

For more information contact mrksustc@together.net.

FERRISBURGH. Visit Rokeby Museum, a National Historic Landmark, one of the best-documented Underground Railroad sites. The 90-acre farm was home to a remarkable family of Quakers, farmers, abolitionists, authors, and artists. Fully furnished house and eight outbuildings, exhibits, tours, hiking trails, and special events. House tours Thurs–Sun at 11 am, 12:30 pm, and 2 pm. Fee: $6 adults, $4 seniors/students, $2 children 12 and under. Open Tues–Sun 10 am – 4 pm. Grounds open year round during daylight hours. Rokeby Museum, Rt 7. (802) 877-3406. www.rokeby.org. May 25 to October 12.

GUILFORD. Exhibit: “Lauren’s Lyrics.” Photography with poetry, children’s books. Free. 7 am – 11 pm. Southeastern Vermont Welcome Center, I-91 North. (802) 254-4593. May 1– 31.

GRANVILLE, NY. Exhibits. Events, demonstrations, gift shop. Open Tues thru Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun 1–4 pm. Admission $5. The Slate Valley Museum, 17 Water St. (518) 642-1417.

HARTLAND FOUR CORNERS. River Excitement. Fishing trips and scenic & birding fl oats. 30 years of fl y fi shing experience and 15 years of guiding on the Upper Connecticut River. Safe, fun gondola-type McKenzie drift boat. Streamside lunches. Call for information and reservations call (802) 457-4021.

HUBBARDTON. Hubbardton Battlefi eld State Historic Site. The Battle of Hubbardton was the only Revolutionary War battle fought entirely in Vermont. Bring your fl ag to be raised over the Hubbardton Battlefi eld and receive a certifi cate. Admission: adults $2, children 14 and under free. Hubbardton Battlefi eld State Historic Site, 5696 Monument Hill Rd, seven miles north of Route 4. (802) 273-2282. www.historicvermont.org. chimneypoint@historicvermont.org. Open late-May through mid-October.

LEBANON, NH. Listen Community Dinner. Free meals served from 5–5:30 pm every Tuesday and Thursday. At Sacred Heart Church on Hough St. (603) 448-4553.

LEBANON, NH. ValleyNet Community Technology Center. 10-seat computer lab in the new Grafton County Senior Citizens Council building, Campbell St., downtown. Center is open for walk-ins 9 am – 4:30 pm, Mon–Fri. Free. (802) 649-2126.

LUDLOW. Buttermilk Falls Indoor Flea Market. Crafts, antiques and collectibles, used goods. Open daily 7 am – 7 pm. Kitchen open for breakfast, lunch, snacks, ice cream. At Black River Rod & Gun Club, 231 Rod & Gun Club Rd, off Rt. 103, north of town. (802) 228-7042.

LUDLOW. Fletcher Farm School for the Arts and Crafts. Classes and workshops. For information or to request a catalog, contact (802) 228-8770. www.fl etcherfarm.org.

MANCHESTER. Revolutionary and Civil War Tour. Covers sites in Manchester, Arlington, Dorset, Bennington, Sunderland. Fee. Daily, 9:30–11:45 am. (802) 362-4997. bckrddisc@aol.com. www.backroaddiscovery.com. Through November 30.

ORWELL. Mount Independence State Historic Site. In 1776, this military complex was one of the largest communities in North America. 300 acres of pasture, woodlands, spectacular vistas of Lake Champlain and trails, some wheelchair accessible. See the Visitor’s Center and Museum with archaeological artifacts. Open daily 9:30 am – 5 pm. Admission: adults $5, children 14 and under are free. On Mount Independence Rd, off Rt 73. (802) 948-2000. www.historicvermont.org. Open late-May through mid-October.

PITTSFORD. New England Maple Museum. Tour through Vermont’s famous Maple Industry and visit our gift shop. Open daily 8:30 am – 5:30 pm. On Route 7, south of town. (802) 483-9414. www.maplemuseum.com.

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Grace Congregational Church presents a perfor-mance of Paul Winter’s Mis-sa Gaia on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary at Grace Church.

This deep work, under the direction of Rip Jackson, will be a collaboration between the Rutland Area Chorus and Maris Wolff’s Vermont Dance Collective. Integrat-ing world music with songs from the wild to celebrate the whole earth as a sacred space, the Missa Gaia was commissioned by the Dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine as a contempo-rary ecumenical Mass. Paul

Winter has “achieved a dis-tinguished triumph in com-bining divergent music styles and imaginatively wedding voices, instrumentation and recorded sounds of a tundra wolf, canyon and musical wrens, harp seals, a fl ight of loons and singing humpback whales.” This will be an in-spiring performance.

Tickets are $15, $10 for students and seniors, and sliding scale is available.

Grace Congregational Church, UCC is located at 8 Court St., Rutland, VT. (802) 775-4301. www.gracechurchvt.org.

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Vermont Country Calendar QUECHEE. The Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center is open from 10 am – 4 pm, May 3–23 on Sat and Sun, and then open for the season seven days a week, 10 am – 5 pm from May 24 through October 20. Live Bird-of-Prey Program, Raptor Exhibits, Nature Store, and Nature Trails. Admission: $8 for adults, $6.50 for ages 3 to 16, ages 2 and under free. 1/4 mile west of Quechee Gorge on Route 4. (802) 359-5000. www.vinsweb.org.

RUTLAND. Himalayan Salt Cave. Come relax in the only Himalayan Salt Cave in North America. Mon–Fri 9 am – 8 pm, Sat & Sun 10 am – 6 pm. Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center, 116 West St. (802) 775-8080. www.pyramidvt.com.

RUTLAND. Rutland Winter Farmers’ Market. Salad greens, local meats & poultry, crafts, baked goods, jams & jellies, pickles & relishes. All products raised and made locally. Entertainment. Enter through the Rutland Natural Food Market—The Co-op, 77 Wales St. Saturdays 10 am – 2 pm, through May. Contact: Greg Cox, (802) 438-9803. www.nofavt.org.

SAXTONS RIVER. Main Street Arts. Workshops and classes for adults, teens, and children. Something for every interest.(802) 869-2960. www.mainstreetarts.org.

SHELBURNE. Shelburne Farms. Visit the Welcome Center, the Farm, and the Farm Store. Workshops, seminars, and special events. Open year round 10 am – 5 pm. Trails-walkers please check in fi rst with the Welcome Center. Admission. Shelburne Farms, 1611 Harbor Rd. off Rt. 7. (802) 985-8686.

SOUTH LONDONDERRY. Visit Anjali Farms, growing Certifi ed Organic heirloom vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs. Lots of beautiful produce and Lotus Moon Medicinals. The farm stand is open May through Oct, Wed to Sat 10 am – 6 pm, some Sundays. Anjali Farms, 395 Middletown Rd off Rt 100. (802) 824-4658. www.anjalifarms.com.

SPRINGFIELD. Shape Note Singing. Come and Join us. 7 pm on the fi rst and third Fridays at Pat and Walt Colteryahn’s, 8 Lincoln St. For more information please call (802) 885-9521.

SPRINGFIELD. Eleanor Ellis Springweather Nature Area. Overlooks North Springfi eld Lake. Trails meander through 70 acres of fi elds and forests, and provide many opportunities to enjoy the natural world. On Helen MacKenzie Reservoir Basin Road. (802) 263-5321. www.weathersfi eld.org.

SPRINGFIELD. McKinley’s First Friday Open Mic. Hosted by Jesse Peters. Expect good food, drink and vibe. Come early and have a lip-smackin’ meal, then listen or play to your heart’s content, songs or poems. This open mic is mostly acoustic and totally free. 8:30 pm at McKinley’s Pub, 30 Main St. (802) 885-9186. Every month on the fi rst Friday.

SPRINGFIELD. Stellafane. A place and an organization devoted to amateur astronomy, founded by Russell W. Porter in 1923, and considered by many to be the “Birthplace of Amateur Telescope Making.” Home to The Springfi eld Telescope Makers, Inc., an active amateur astronomy and telescope-making club that sponsors many events, classes, activities, and a convention. Something for all levels. For more information write the Springfi eld Telescope Makers, Inc., PO Box 601, Springfi eld, VT 05156. Webmaster@Stellafane.com. www.stellafane.com.

ST. JOHNSBURY. Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon. Concerts at 4 pm at the Catamount Arts Center. Visit website for amny other activities. (802) 748-2600, (888) 757-5559. catamountarts@charter.net. www.catamountarts.com.

ST. JOHNSBURY. Volksmarch (Non-Competitive Walk). Walk through the largest city in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. At the Visitors Center, Railroad St. Call ahead: (802) 748-3678. May 1 through Nov 30.

WEATHERSFIELD. Weathersfi eld Trail, Cascade Falls Rd. Of four hiking trails that go to the summit of Mt. Ascutney, the Weathersfi eld Trail is probably the most scenic. Highlights include Little Cascade Falls (.04 miles), Crystal Cascade Falls (an 84 foot high waterfall at 1.1 miles), Gus’s Lookout and the West Peak Vista where hang gliders launch from in the summer. Great observation platform on the summit for hikers. For more information contact Rick White, VT Dept. of Forest, Parks and Recreation at (802) 886-2215. www.weathersfi eld.org.

WEST RUTLAND. Free Financial Fitness Classes by NeighborWorks® of Western Vermont. Topics covered include: Basic Budgeting, Using a Checkbook, Saving and Investing, Borrowing Basics, Credit, and Renting in Vermont. Call to fi nd out the dates of topics that interest you. 3–5 pm Thursdays at the NeighborWorks offi ce at 110 Marble St. (802) 438-2303 x 216.

WHITE RIVER JUNCTION. “Appreciate Your Life,” Shambhala Buddhist meditation practice and discussion on Tuesdays, 5:30–7:30 pm. Shambhala Meditation Center of White River, 158 South Main St. Call (802) 785-4304 for information. whiteriver.shambhala.org.

WHITE RIVER JUNCTION. Knitting, Crocheting, and Tatting Classes. Beginner to advanced. Also yarns and knitting supplies. Held at White River Yarns, 1011 N. Main St., Suite 27. For schedule, more information, and to register, please call Lois Miller, (802) 295-9301. lmm802@verizon.net. www.whiteriveryarns.com.

WHITE RIVER JUNCTION. Listen Community Dinner. Free nutritious meals served 5:15–5:45 pm every Monday and Wednesday, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 749 Hartford Ave. For information call (603) 448-4553.

WHITE RIVER JUNCTION. Second Hand Rose Shop at the United Methodist Church, 106 Gates St. is open Wednesdays from noon to 3 pm and Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm.

WINDSOR. Old Constitution House State Historic Site. 18th Century Travelers Exhibit: “Comforts of a Country Traveler.” Programs. Open 11 am – 5 pm, Wed–Sun, May 24 through mid-October. Admission: adults $2.50, children 14 & under are free. 16 N Main St. (802) 672-3373. www.historicvermont.org.

WINDSOR. American Precision Museum. Peruse many historical and interesting exhibits and collections. Admission: adults $6, students $4, under 6 free, family $18. Open daily 10 am – 5 pm, May 24 through Oct 31. 196 Main St. (802) 674-5781. www.americanprecision.org.

WOODSTOCK. First Run Movies at the Woodstock Town Hall Theatre. Old-fashioned movie-going experience, with state-of-the-art Dolby Digital sound system and the largest movie screen in the Upper Valley! Fri–Mon, 7:30 pm. Adult $7, senior $6, under 12, $5. (802) 457-3981. www.pentanglearts.org.

WOODSTOCK. Billings Farm & Museum. Celebrating our 25th Anniversary! Premiere Jersey dairy farm. Tour the barns, the 1890 Farm House, and exhibits. 10 am – 5 pm. Adults $11; over 62 $10; children 5–15 $6; 3–4 $3; 2 & under free. Located 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt 12. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 1GUILFORD. Exhibit: “Lauren’s Lyrics.” Photography with poetry, children’s books. Free. 7 am – 11 pm. Southeastern Vermont Welcome Center, I-91 North. (802) 254-4593. Through May 31.

MANCHESTER. Revolutionary and Civil War Tour. Covers sites in Manchester, Arlington, Dorset, Bennington, Sunderland. Admission. Daily, 9:30–11:45 am. (802) 362-4997. bckrddisc@aol.com. www.backroaddiscovery.com. Through November 30.

WOODSTOCK. Opening Day at Billings Farm & Museum. Celebrating our 25th Anniversary! Horse-drawn wagon rides and free ice cream from the Dairy Bar. Adults $11; over 62 $10; children 5–15 $6; 3–4 $3; 2 & under free. Open 10 am – 5 pm. Located 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt 12. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 2BRADFORD. Concert with Sandra Wright. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. www.memh.com.

BRATTLEBORO. Gospel Legend Marie Knight at The Vermont Jazz Center. To benefi t Brattleboro Community Radio WVEW-FM. Admission. 8 pm at Vermont Jazz Center, 72 Cotton Mill Hill #222. (802) 552-4207. www.thebluesjoint.com.

PUTNEY. Film: Health & the Hive: A Beekeepers Journey. A 53-minute fi lm by local fi lmmaker Jan Cannon explores the importance of honeybees in our lives. Samples of raw honey and plant medicine will be offered. Todd Hardie, a central fi gure in the fi lm, will be at the showing. Free. At the Putney Library, 7 pm. jancannonfi lms.com. honeygardens.com.

RANDOLPH. Concert with Grand Derangement. Seven musicians and step dancers all hail from the St. Mary’s Bay region on shores of Nova Scotia. Cajun and Irish rhythms fused with traditional Acadian music, rock and jazz. Chandler Music Hall, 71–73 Main St. 7:30 pm. Tickets $28, $23. (802) 728-6464. www.chandler-arts.org. tickets@chandler-arts.org. www.grandderangement.com.

SHELBURNE. Morgan Horse “Derby” Gala. Celebrating 20 years of the Morgan Horse Headquarters. Donation. Fri–Sun at American Morgan Horse Headquarters, 122 Bostwick Rd. (802) 985-4944 x 26. www.morganhorse.com. Through May 4.

TINMOUTH. Concert: Coleman’s Well—an eclectic blend of (mostly) a cappella songs. 7:30 pm. $8 donation. Refreshments available. The Old Firehouse Stage, center of Tinmouth on Rt. 140. (802) 446-2928. www.tinmouthvt.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 3BARRE. Chicken Pie Supper. Admission. 5 & 6:30 pm at Hedding United Methodist Church, 40 Washington St.(802) 476-6332.

BRADFORD. Concert with Tammy Fletcher. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. www.memh.com.

BRATTLEBORO. Film: Health & the Hive: A Beekeepers Journey. A fi lm by local fi lmmaker Jan Cannon explores the importance of honeybees in our lives. Samples of raw honey and plant medicine will be offered. Todd Hardie, a central fi gure in the fi lm, will be at the showing. Free. At the Brattleboro Coop, 1–5 pm. jancannonfi lms.com. honeygardens.com.

BURLINGTON. The Threepenny Opera. An interdisciplinary course and production will focus on this trail-blazing musical comedy. Admission. 3 pm at Mccauley Hall, 250 Colchester. (802) 656-3131. natalie.neuert@uvm.edu.

BURLINGTON. Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s Masterworks Series. Program features VSO’s music director and conductor, violinist Jaime Laredo, with Sharon Robinson, cello. Admission. Saturday, 8 pm at Flynn Center. (802) 86-FLYNN. www.vso.org.

ESSEX JUNCTION. The 12th Annual Essex Spring Craft & Fine Art Show. Featuring artisans from across the country and Canada. 10 am – 5 pm. Champlain Valley Exposition, 105 Pearl St. $6 adults, children under 12 free when accompanied by an adult. (802) 878-4786. www.vtcrafts.com. Also May 4.

GRAFTON. Astronomy Night. Join the Nature Museum and Vermont Academy for a night of astronomy information and gazing at the wonders found in our sky. A talk on Mars and a trip to the observatory for the opportunity to view many celestial objects. Admission free. 7–9 pm at the Vermont Academy. (802) 843-2111. staff@nature-museum.org. www.nature-museum.org.

GRAFTON. Hunter Gallery of Fine Arts Season Opening. Free. 10 am to 6 pm at Hunter Gallery of Fine Arts, 74 Main St. (802) 843-1440. www.hunterartworks.com. May through October 31.

MONTPELIER. Book & Author Event. Michael Buckley will read from Tales from the Hood, one of his popular Sisters Grimm mystery series for middle graders. Free. 11 am at Bear Pond Books, 77 Main St. (802) 229-0774. www.bearpondbooks.com.

PLAINFIELD. Concert: Singer Songwriter Erica Wheeler in benefi t concert for Earthwalk Vermont. Susannah Blachly and Lewis Franco to open. 7 pm. HaybarnTheater at Goddard College. $25 advance, $30 door. (802) 454-8500. earthwalkvermont.org. www.ericawheeler.com.

RANDOLPH. Concert with Banjo Dan and the Mid-Nite Plowboys. Part of the Annual Fiddlehead Festival. Chandler Music Hall, 71–73 Main St. 7 pm. Tickets $10. (802) 728-6464. www.chandler-arts.org. tickets@chandler-arts.org. www.banjodan.com.

RANDOLPH. Live Traditional Celtic Music with Telford & Green and Friends. 3 pm in Morgan’s Pub, Three Stallion Inn, 665 Stock Farm Rd. (800) 424-5575. info@threestallioninn.com. www.3stallioninn.com.

RANDOLPH CENTER. Annual Fiddlehead Festival. At Vermont Technical College campus. Free admission. Children’s parade, tractor cavalcade & obstacle course, May Pole ceremony, live music, farmers market, crafts, wild edibles program, presentations, kid’s activities, poetry reading, sheep dogs herding. Lunch 1 pm. Activities downtown after 3 pm includes nature walk. Banjo Dan and the Mid-Nite Plowboys at 7 pm, Chandler Music Hall. (802) 728-6212. info@fi ddleheadfestival.com. fi ddleheadfestival.com.

SHELBURNE. Lilac Workshop. Gather up your gardening tools and gloves and learn the fi ner points of pruning and caring for lilacs while providing valuable volunteer service to the Museum. 9 am – 3 pm. Free. Participants need not attend a full session. (Lilac Workshop II is May 31.) Preregistration required. Contact Jessica Ricci at (802) 985-3346 x 3349 or jricci@shelburnemuseum.org. Shelburne Museum, Rt 7. www.shelburnemuseum.org.

SOUTH BURLINGTON. Sixth Annual Dinner & Silent Auction. Admission. Auction 4–7:30 pm, Dinner 5 & 6:15 pm at Faith United Methodist Church, 899 Dorset St. (802) 863-6764. faithom@verizon.net. www.faithsbvt.org.

SOUTH WOODSTOCK. Contra Dance Benefi t for South Woodstock Volunteer Fire Dept. David Millstone and the Sugar River Fiddlers. Donation. 7–10 pm at South Woodstock Fire House, Route 106. (802) 353-7296. jbskibee@yahoo.com.

WOODSTOCK. 30th Anniversary Freelance Family Singers Spring Concert. Full chorus and vocal and instrumental ensembles. Free. Sat 7 pm, Sun 3 pm at First Congregational Church of Woodstock, Elm St. (802) 457-3980. ehs1935@earthlink.net. Also May 4.

SUNDAY, MAY 4BENNINGTON. Art Workshop: Debra Priestly, one of the artists featured in the “Reimagining the Distaff Toolkit” exhibit, will lead a hands-on workshop. Bring something from home—an old tool, a measuring cup, an empty Mason jar—and use it as the basis for a narrative about the meaning, history, and importance of objects. The object will become the focal point of a work of art you create. 1–4 pm. $25, adults only, advance registration required. The Bennington Museum, 75 Main St (Rt. 9). Open daily 10 am – 5 pm, closed Wed. (802) 447-1571. www.benningtonmuseum.org

BRADFORD. Concert with Nobby Reed. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. www.memh.com.

BURLINGTON. The Threepenny Opera. This spring, an interdisciplinary course and production will focus on The Threepenny Opera, the trail-blazing musical comedy. Admission. Sun 3 pm at Mccauley Hall, 250 Colchester. (802) 656-3131.

BURLINGTON. Vermont Youth Orchestra Spring Concert—Shostakovich Side-by-Side. The VYO presents a collaborative performance with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. Admission. 3 pm at Flynn Center For The Performing Arts, 153 Main St. (802) 863-5966. info@vyo.org. www.vyo.org.

GRAND ISLE. Concert: Wood’s Tea Company. Mixture of lively folk music, Celtic tunes and sea shanties. Admission. 3 pm at Grand Isle Lake House, East Shore Rd. (802) 372-5186. info@islandarts.org. www.islandarts.org.

MIDDLEBURY. Songs for Spring—A Choral Concert. Music of life, remembrance, refl ection & joy, featuring Rutter’s Requiem, Haydn’s The Seasons and contemporary works. Free. 3 pm at Mead Chapel Middlebury College. (802) 443-5811. rehbach@middlebury.edu.

ROCKINGHAM. 9th Annual Herricks Cove Wildlife Festival. Learn to identify waterfowl and fl y fi sh, see live owls, eagles and reptiles, build bat boxes and visit a giant moose display. Guided nature walks, nature presentations, live music, arts and crafts and workshops. Insect presentation and a fi shing workshop just for kids. 7:30 am guided bird walk. The rest of the day’s activities are 10 am to 3 pm. Donation $2 individual, $5 family. Herricks Cove is on the Connecticut River off Rt. 5, less than three miles north of Bellows Falls. (802) 722-3355. www.vtfi shandwildlife.com.

RUTLAND. Lakes Region Youth Orchestra Spring Concert. Our advanced students join Elisabeth von Trapp in performance! Admission. Paramount Theatre, 30 Center St. (802) 775-0903.

WOODSTOCK. 22nd Annual Plowing Match. Teamster with horses and oxen from all over the Northeast. Horse-drawn wagon rides, visitor plowing with our draft horses, programs with the Billings oxen Harry and Will, and rope making demonstrations. Snacks at the Teago Volunteer Fire Department tent. Adults $11; over 62 $10; children 5–15 $6; 3–4 $3; 2 & under free. 9 am – 5 pm at Billings Farm & Museum, Route 12N & River Rd, 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Route 12. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org.

WOODSTOCK. Freelance Family Singers Spring Concert. Popular sacred and secular musical pieces are offered in a free, family-friendly concert. Free. 3 pm at First Congregation Church, Elm St. (802) 484-5097.

MONDAY, MAY 5MONTPELIER. Spiritual Dowsing. 6 pm. Dowsing is an ancient art of inner knowing. Information gained through dowsing can help guide our personal decisions regarding food and herbs, enhance our communication with Nature beings and much more. Bring a pendulum if you have one – we may have afew extras on hand. Vermont Center for Integrative Medicine. Fee: $10. Call (802) 224-7100 to register.

TUESDAY, MAY 6BURLINGTON. Concert: “How Can We Keep from Singing?” The voice students of Jill Levis perform. Free admission. At noon at Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 2 Cherry St. (802) 864-0471. www.cathedralarts.org. www.stpaulscathedralvt.org.

COLCHESTER. Annual Spring Amateur Musicians’ Orchestra Concert. Get out, celebrate spring and enjoy some wonderful music performed by your friends, neighbors and colleagues. Free. 8 pm at Elley Long Music Center at Fort Ethan Allen. (802) 877-6962. allyson@amovt.org. www.amovt.org.

COLCHESTER. Program: Life Onboard—Lake Champlain’s Sunken Canal Boats. Underwater archaeologist Adam Kane shows artifacts and slides to tell the gripping tale of one the lake’s sunken boats. Free. 7 pm at Burnham Memorial Library, 898 Main St. (802) 879-7576. ggellman@burnham.lib.vt.us. www.burnham.lib.vt.us. www.vermonthumanities.org.

WOODSTOCK. Program for Preschoolers: Earthquack! Hear the story about Little Chucky Ducky as he warns his barnyard friends including Pam and Sam Lamb. We’ll also visit our farm’s new baby lambs, calves, and chickens, make a handprint hen, and have a snack of “quackers and cheese.” Admission fee: $5 per person. 9–10:30 am at Billings Farm & Museum, Route 12N & River Rd, 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt 12. Call to register. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7MANCHESTER. The Great Camps of the Adirondacks. Vermont State Curator David Schutz on the Adirondack style of architecture. Free. 7 pm. First Congregational Church, 3624 Main St. (802) 362-2607.

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NEW!

BELLOWS FALLS. Poetry Workshop. Into the Woods: Poems from Nature with Linda Aldrich. Fee. Fri–Sun, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. To register call (802) 463-3330. info@greatriverarts.org. www.greatriverarts.org. Through May 11.

BELLOWS FALLS. Workshop: One-on-One Printmaking with Catherine Farish. An individual teaching approach to meet each student at their level of experience. Fee. Fri–Sun, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. (802) 463-3330. info@greatriverarts.org. www.greatriverarts.org. Through May 11.

BURLINGTON. Film: Health & the Hive: A Beekeepers Journey. A 53-minute fi lm by local fi lmmaker Jan Cannon, it explores the importance of honeybees in our lives. Samples of raw honey and plant medicine will be offered. Todd Hardie, a central fi gure in the fi lm will be at the showing. Free. City Market, 7 pm. Websites: jancannonfi lms.com/honeybee.htm. honeygardens.com.

HYDE PARK. Play—Jake’s Women. A comedy from playwright Neil Simon. Presented by the Lamoille County Players. Admission. Fri–Sat 7 pm, Sun 2 pm at Hyde Park Opera House, 85 Main St. (802) 888-4507. info@lcplayers.com. www.lcplayers.com. Through May 11.

LYNDON CENTER. Dartmouth Dance Ensemble performs Skylight. Free admission. 7:30 pm at Lyndon State College, Alexander Twilight Theatre, 1001 College Road. (802) 626-6459. www.lyndonstate.edu/arts.

LYNDON CENTER. Senior Design Show. An exhibit from the senior design classes. Free. Weekdays, 8 am – 4 pm at Lyndon State College Quimby Gallery, 1001 College Rd. (802) 626-6459. susan.gallagher@lyndonstate.edu. www.lyndonstate.edu/arts. Through May 18.

MANCHESTER CENTER. Meet Charles Osgood as he presents his book, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the White House: Humor Blunders, and Other Oddities from the Presidential Campaign Trail. 7 pm at Equinox Hotel. Presented by the Northshire Bookstore. Tickets $26–$45. (802) 362-2200.

MONTPELIER. Lecture: The White Mountain Huts. Dartmouth Professor Allen Koop explains the Appalachian Mountain Club’s hut system in New Hampshire and its history. Free. 7–9 pm at Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St. (802) 223-3338. rsenechal@kellogghubbard.org. www.kellogghubbard.org.

STOWE. Concert: Noon Music in May. Eugene Barban on piano heralds the arrival of spring with pieces about birds. Free admission. Noon at Stowe Community Church, Main St. Concert is repeated at 8 pm. (802) 253-7792. spa@stowearts.com. www.stowearts.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 8MONTPELIER. Program: The Holy Wells of Ireland. Ancient Ireland was believed to be a land of power that “welled up” in the form of bubbling springs. Free admission. Everyone is welcome. 7–9 pm at Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Hayes Room, 135 Main St. (802) 223-3338. rsenechal@kellogghubbard.org. www.kellogghubbard.org.

MONTPELIER. Film Screening: Health & the Hive: A Beekeepers Journey. A 53-minute fi lm produced by local fi lmmaker Jan Cannon explores the importance of honeybees in our lives. Samples of raw honey and plant medicine will be offered. Todd Hardie, a central fi gure in the fi lm, and Zack Woods Herb Farm will host. Free. At the Hunger Mountain Coop, 6 pm. jancannonfi lms.com. honeygardens.com.

ST. JOHNSBURY. Discussion: The Future of Vermont. What should Vermont’s focus for the future be? Free admission; everyone is welcome to come and join in. 6–8:30 pm at St. Johnsbury Middle School, 257 Western Ave. (802) 223-6091. www.futureofvermont.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 9BELLOWS FALLS. Art Workshop: Collage

Techniques with Beth Ganz. Fee. Presented Friday–Sunday, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at Great River Arts

Institute, 33 Bridge St. To register or for more information call (802) 463-3330.

www.greatriverarts.org. Through May 11.

Vermont Country CalendarSAXTONS RIVER. Windham Orchestra. Concert: “Song in Spring”Overtures and arias from operas by Mozart, Puccini, Verdi, and Charpentier. 8 pm. Vermont Academy. $12 adults, $5 students. For tickets call (802) 257-4523 or on-line at www.brattleborotix.com. www.bmcvt.org.

SPRINGFIELD. Play—Dancing at Lughnasa. Brian Friel’s play is set in rural Ireland just before World War II. Admission. 7:30 pm at Springfi eld Community Theater Playhouse, South St. (802) 885-3201. Through May 17.

SATURDAY, MAY 10BELLOWS FALLS. Poetry Events. Jim Fowler’spoetry class will be presenting and reading from their latest chapbook, “In Search of a Metaphor” starting at 1 pm, followed by The 2nd Saturday River Voices Open Mic Poetry Reading from 2–4 pm. At Village Square Booksellers, 32 the Square. For reservations for a seat at the table or to read call (802) 463-9404. www.villagesquarebooks.com.

BENNINGTON. Latin Party. Latin party and dancing lessons. Admission. 7 pm – midnight at Bennington Museum–Club Muse. (802) 442-5619. alexandr@sover.net. www.benningtonmuseum.org.

BENSON. Shaw Mountain Outing. Bird and wildfl ower walk through this beautiful Nature Conservancy preserve, home to white trillium, wild ginger, and fringed polygala. 9 am. Moderate, 2.5 miles. Free. Sponsored by Killington Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Connie Youngstrom. (802) 492-3502. www.greenmountainclub.org.

BURLINGTON. Spring Trail Work to Clear the Long Trail. Bring work gloves, lunch, water. Tools provided or bring your own. Meet at UVM visitor’s lot at 8 am or Richmond Park & Ride (Exit 11) at 8:30 am. Hike at a moderatepace; 4–10 miles. Free. Sponsored by the Burlington Section of Green Mountain Club. Info call leaders Pam Gillis (802) 879-1457 or John Sharp. (802) 862-3941. greenmountainclub.org.

Page 18 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

The Nature Museum at GraftonSponsors Spring Family Events

Astronomy NightSaturday, May 3rd • 7:00–9:00 p.m.

Join the Nature Museum and Vermont Academy in Saxtons River, VT for a night of astronomy information and gazing at the wonders found in our sky. The evening will start with a 30-minute talk on “Mars” by Claudio Veliz. At the Ver-mont Academy’s observatory, Naturalist/Astronomer Bob Anderson and several amateur astronomers with scopes, will help us view celestial objects. Free admission. Directions: from Main Street in Saxtons River turn onto Pleasant St. Turn left onto Shepherd Lane, the second Vermont Academy entrance; go about ½ of a mile and turn left into the Chivers Center parking lot.

Pruning and Spring Maintenance Q & ASaturday May 10th, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Enjoy a workshop in the fundamentals of pruning taught by Will Danforth as we ready the Museum’s Wildlife Garden for the growing season. At The Nature Museum, 186 Townshend Rd. Free to the public.

Spring Wildfl ower WalkSaturday, May 10th, 9–11 a.m.

In this walk we will locate and identify six of the spring ephemeral wildfl owers that are found in the Windmill Hill Pinnacle Association’s Martin Sanctuary on Bemis Hill Road in Saxtons River, VT. The walk is led by Paul “Hop” Hopkins, who did his graduate school thesis fi eld work on spring ephemerals in this same area and who currently teaches science at The Grammar School in Putney. The Martin Sanctuary trail head is located on Bemis Hill Road, outside of Saxtons River. Free to the public.

Under the Canopy: Shade Gardening with Native Plants

Tuesday, May 20th, 7–8 p.m.Scott LaFleur, head horticulturalist for the New England Wildfl ower Society, will present this program about the vast array of native plant species that thrive in full and partial shade and add beauty and interest to your understory. The program takes place in The Homestead Room at The Old Tavern in Grafton, VT. Fee: $6.

Pond Creatures: Mighty Acorns Explorers Club

Wednesday, May 21stSession One: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Session Two: 1–3 p.m.

A fun-fi lled time for preschoolers (ages 3–5) and their caregivers. We will explore outside, visit different habitats, and use museum resources – exhibits, puppet shows, and dramatic play. Please pre-register if possible. Meet at The Nature Museum 186 Townshend Rd, Grafton, VT. Fee: $7.

The Nature Museum at Grafton, 186 Townshend Road, Grafton, VT 05146. staff@nature-museum.org. (802) 843-2111. www.nature-museum.org.

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 19

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Vermont CountryCalendar

CRAFTSBURY. Historical Logging Practices. Day-long workshop on the challenges faced by loggers in the late 1800s. Hand tools and horses will be used to bring down trees and extract them to the landing. Hardy lunch prepared over an open fi re. Hear stories, work with 19th century logging technology and principles, and relive local history. 8 am. Simpson Hall, Sterling College. Fee: $125. Contact: Heidi Wilson (802) 586-7711. hwilson@sterlingcollege.edu. www.sterlingcollege.edu.

GRAFTON. Pruning and Spring Maintenance Workshop. Enjoy a Q&A in the fundamentals of pruning taught by Will Danforth as we ready the Museum’s Wildlife Garden for the growing season. 10 am – 12 pm. The Nature Museum, 186 Townshend Rd. Free. (802) 843-2111. staff@nature-museum.org. www.nature-museum.org.

LYNDON CENTER. Lyndon State College Community Chorus. The Chorus will feature Haydn’s The Creation along with solos from oratorios by Bach, Beethoven, Handel and Mendelssohn. Donation. 7 pm at Lyndon State College, Alexander Twilight Theatre, 1001 College Rd. (802) 626-6459. susan.gallagher@lyndonstate.edu. www.lyndonstate.edu/arts.

MANCHESTER. Spring Hike: “Lily, Jack and Solomon.” The forest fl oor has burst with color and vibrancy! Let’s take a hike to meet the hardy and beautiful spring wildfl owers growing on the Preserve. 10–11 am; meet in the Lincoln Terrace at the Equinox Resort. $3 fee. Vermont Institute of Natural Science. (802) 362-4374.

NORTH WESTMINSTER. Beekeeping Workshop. Charles Andros, former NH/VT Apiary Inspector, will hold a beekeeping workshop from 1–3 pm at Paul Harlow Farm, Deep Root Dr off Rt 5. Call to register. (603) 756-9056. lindena@sover.net.

NORWICH. Contradance with Northern Spy. Caller: David Millstone. All dances taught, no partner necessary, beginners welcome! Bring a separate pair of clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. At Tracy Hall. 8 pm. Admission $8, over 60 by donation, under 16 free. Contact: Rick Barrows at (802) 785-4607 or rbarrows@cs.dartmouth.edu.

PUTNEY. Concert: “Song in Spring”—Windham Orchestra. Overtures and arias from operas: Mozart’s Magic Flute, Puccini’s La Boheme, Verdi’s La Traviata, and Charpentier’s Louise. The orchestra also performs Sibelius Spring Song. 8 pm at Putney School, 418 Houghton Brook Rd. $12 adults, $5 students. Advance tickets: Brattleboro Music Center, (802) 257-4523 or on-line at www.brattleborotix.com. www.bmcvt.org.

RUTLAND. First Annual Casino Night and Texas Hold ’em Tournament at the Paramount Theatre. Includes craps, black jack, roulette. Redeem your winnings in real money. Hors d’oeuvre and cash bar available. 6–10 pm. Casino night tickets $25. The Texas Hold ’em tournament will begin with registration at 4 pm and game time of 4:30 pm. Seating limited to the fi rst 100 players with $100 buy in. Pre-registration available. All proceeds benefi t the Paramount Theatre. (802) 775-0903.

SAXTONS RIVER. Spring Wildfl ower Walk. Locate and identify six of the spring ephemeral wildfl owers that are found in the Martin Sanctuary on Bemis Hill Rd. Forest community type, canopy cover, and microtopography will be discussed. 9–11 am. Free. Sponsored by The Nature Museum, 186 Townshend Rd. (802) 843-2111. staff@nature-museum.org. www.nature-museum.org.

SHELBURNE. Civil War Sites in Vermont. Howard Coffi n will tell you about Civil War home front sites in Vermont. Free. 1 pm at Shelburne United Methodist Church, 30 Church St. (802) 879-1925. www.vermonthumanities.org.

SOUTH BURLINGTON. Mark Shelton Concert. A Teen Challenge Benefi t. Admission. 7 pm at Community Bible Church, 2025 Williston Rd. (802) 754-2216. www.captainradical.com.

SOUTH BURLINGTON. Workshop: Trillium Walk & Plant Propagation. A walk & talk with Stephanie Solt, proprietor for Trilliums Unlimited. Discuss seed collection and propagation of the Trillium. Fee: $10. Please pre-register by May 5th. 10 am – 12 pm at the Hort Farm, UVM Horticultural Research Complex, 65 Green Mountain Dr. Sponsored by Friends of the Horticulture Farm. (802) 864-3073. David.Heleba@uvm.edu. friendsofthehortfarm.org.

SOUTH WOODBURY. Workshop: Wild Edible Feast. Come harvest, prepare and eat a variety of tasty wild edibles! Learn the principles of safe and sustainable wild harvesting, address issues of identifi cation and toxicity, and communicate with the plants. 10 am. Wisdom of the Herbs School. Fee: $80. Call Annie McCleary to register. (802) 456-8122.

SWANTON. Annual International Migratory Bird Day Celebration. Migratory bird count. Bring your binoculars and fi eld guides and dress appropriately for the weather. The ground may be wet, waterproof footwear is advised. Paddlers, please bring your own canoe or kayak, paddles

and life jackets. 7:30 am through 3 pm. Meet at the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters/

Visitor Center, 29 Tabor Rd. All activities and lunch are free, sponsored by the Friends of

Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. Call to register. (802) 868-4781. www.fws.gov/

northeast/missisquoi.

TINMOUTH. 21st Annual “Famous Tinmouth Plant Sale.” Also bake sale, car wash, and bottle drive. Come get fl owers, shrubs, treats and a sparkle shine for your car. Organic native and nursery grown hardy perennials. Reasonable prices and huge variety. Price per plant $3. Buy treats at the bake sale and get a sparkling car wash! 8–11 am, downtown, Rt. 140. For information call the Tinmouth School at (802) 446-2458 or Cathy Reynolds at(802) 446-2928.

TUNBRIDGE. Concert with Eliza Gilkyson. A Grammy nominee and Austin Music Hall of Famer performs. Presented by Mountain Folk. 7:30 pm at the Town Hall on Rt 110. Tickets $15, $20. (802) 431-3433 or visit www.greenmountainfolk.org.

VERGENNES. New England Ballet Conservatory. New England Children’s Ballet performs “A Child’s Garden of Ballet.” Admission. 2 pm at Vergennes Opera House, 120 Main St. (802) 877-6737. info@vergennesoperahouse.org. www.vergennesoperahouse.org.

WEST DUMMERSTON. Outing: Long Trail Work Weekend. Bring pack frames, shovels, hoes, clippers and meet at the covered bridge at 7 am or the Long Trail parking lot on Rt. 30 at 8 am. Free. Sponsored by the Brattleboro Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Mark Brown. (802) 254-4647. www.greenmountainclub.org. Also May 11.

WOODSTOCK. Outing: Work Day for the Ottauquechee Section of Appalachian Trail. Meet at 8:30 at Woodstock Recreation Center, bring work gloves, tools, lunch & water. Free. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Harry Temple. (802) 738-8405. www.greenmountainclub.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 11BURLINGTON. 2008 Vermont Going Green Expo. Come to Vermont’s fi rst Going Green energy and eco-living exposition at the University of Vermont’s Gutterson Athletic Center. Explore dozens of workshops. Kid’s story time, free Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and a musical puppet show. (603) 786-9278. goinggreenexpos.com.

BURLINGTON. Concert: Nature Never Spent. Songs in celebration of motherhood, the earth and the divine feminine. Admission. 3 pm at Christ Church, UVM Redstone Campus. (802) 862-1898. www.christchurchburlington.org.

LAKE ELMORE. Hike: Elmore Mountain. Meet at the trail parking lot in Elmore State Park and then walk along the road to the trailhead. Free hike but there is a park fee of $2.50/person. Newcomers and non-members are welcome.Anyone who wants may climb the fi re tower at the summit for great views of Jay Peak and Canada. A moderate hike at a moderate pace; about 4 miles, 1450’ elevation gain. Bring bug repellent and water! Sponsored by the Burlington Section of the Green Mountain Club. Call the leader with questions: Megan Daly (971) 221-9968 or daly.megan@gmail.com. www.greenmountainclub.org.

SHELBURNE. Annual Mothers Day Tour of the Inn at Shelburne Farms. All fl oors of this historic inn are open for the tour. Interpreters will be available throughout the house to share information about the architecture, furnishings, restoration and history of the founding family. 12–5 pm. Tickets: $10 adults, $9 seniors. Advance tickets are recommended and may be purchased from the Shelburne Farms Welcome Center, or by calling (802) 985-8442. www.shelburnefarms.org.

JoAnne’s Bridal Boutique

Large Selection of Prom Gowns, sizes 0–28. Gowns for Brides and Bridal Party.

17 Center Street, Brandon, VT • (802) 247-5160

SELF PORTRAITThe memory of farms is in my blood. Though my rebellious thoughts would run away, escape is hindered by the violet fl ood that rises in the pasture, every May.

It is no use to hide my servitude,to crouch in cities from the search of Spring. Feet that are branded by the pasture’s mud are never freed by simply wandering.

The chains that gall me are beyond my will: Wild cherry bloom is white on Stony Hill.

—AMY LEE SPENCER

We Buy—We Sell—We Trade—We Deliver

Jewett’sGreen Mountain Furniture Barn

Open Tues–Sun 10 am – 5 pm, Closed Monday

2128 Rt. 7, Pittsford, VT • 802-483-6844Richard L. Jewett, Sales Manager

Vermont Made Indoor–Outdoor,

Good Used, Antique & New Furniture

Furniture is Our BusinessWe Price to Sell

NEW ENGLAND MAPLE MUSEUMNorth of Rutland, US Rt. 7 in Pittsford, VTThe Complete Story of Maple Sugaring

Vermont Foods & Maple Products(802) 483-9414 • Open Daily 8:30 am – 5:30 pm

Page 20 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Biggest Inventory and Best Prices in the AreaLarge Selection of OEM and Aftermarket Parts

& Accessories for All Makes and ModelsGood Selection of Used Sleds & Parts.

Open Evenings & Weekends • (802) 234-936831 Arctic Cat Road, Bethel, VT

gwhite1948@aol.com • www.glwsnowmobile.com

GERRY L. WHITESNOWMOBILE

PARTS & SALES

Vermont Country Calendar ST. ALBANS. Bike Ride. An easy 20 miles. Helmets required. Free. Newcomers and non-members are welcome.Sponsored by the Bread Loaf Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details contact leaders Ed and Mary Williams, (802) 453-5473. greenmountainclub.org.

ST. JOHNSBURY. Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon. 4 pm at the Catamount Arts Center. Presented by Catamount Arts. For more information call (802) 748-2600, (888) 757-5559. catamountarts@charter.net. www.catamountarts.com.

TINMOUTH. Children’s Performances: Two local Odyssey of the Mind teams perform skits and The After School Children’s chorus performs their spring concert. Desserts, silent auction, and raffl e. 7 pm. Tinmouth Community Center in downtown Tinmouth. For more information contact: Cathy Reynolds at (802) 446-2928 or Leslie Silver at (802) 235-2335. www.tinmouthvt.org.

WATERBURY CENTER. Spring Outing: Paddle the Waterbury Reservoir. Enjoy the high water, fresh leaves, and arriving birds. Easy. Free, non-members and newcomers welcome. Sponsored by the Montpelier Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader George Plumb. (802) 883-2313 or gplumb@pshift.com for meeting time and place. www.greenmountainclub.org.

WOODSTOCK. Open Music Night. From 7–9 pm at St. James Church. 2nd and 4th Sundays through 6/29/08. For more information contact dave@yellowhousemedia.com.

WOODSTOCK. Mother’s Day Hike on Rivendell Trail. Moderate. Free. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. Newcomers and non-members welcome. For details and meeting time and place call leader Inge Trebitz, (802) 785-2129. www.greenmountainclub.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 13ESSEX. Coffeehouse. Local singer/songwriter Rachel Hamilton will perform her show “Me, My Guitar, and the Road” at Phoenix Books at the Essex Shoppes & Cinema at 7 pm. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Michael DeSanto at (802) 872-7111.

WOODSTOCK. Program for Preschoolers: The Cows are Going to Paris. Hear the story “Bonjour! Bonjour!” The cows have grown tired of the French countryside and decide to board a train for Paris. We’ll also learn a few French words, enjoy a treat français, and roll hoops like the les vaches (cows) in Paris! $5 per person. 9–10:30 am at Billings Farm & Museum, Route 12N & River Rd., 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt 12. Call to register. (802) 457-2355. www.billingsfarm.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14BRATTLEBORO. Open Mic. Hosted by Danger Dave at 9 pm at the Weathervane Music Hall. For info call (802) 779-5629. Every Wednesday.

HARTLAND. Open Mic. At Skunk Hollow Tavern at Four Corners. For information contact Dave Clark at dave@

yellowhousemedia.com.

MORRISVILLE. Farmers and Artisans Market. Live music. 3–7 pm at the River Arts Center.

For details contact www.riverartsvt.org. Every Wednesday.

STOWE. Stowe Arts Noon Music in May—Global Winds Project. This woodwind quintet’s repertoire includes classical to ragtime, jazz and Latin melodies. Free. Noon–1 pm at Stowe Community Church, Main Street. (802) 253-7792. www.stowearts.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 15BELLOWS FALLS. Advanced Poetry Workshop with Wyn Cooper. This workshop will help students polish their poems for publication. Admission. Thurs–Sat, noon–4 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. (802) 463-3330. info@greatriverarts.org. www.greatriverarts.org. Through May 17.

BELLOWS FALLS. Drawing and Painting Abstraction with Jen Bradley. Admission. Thurs–Sun, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. (802) 463-3330. www.greatriverarts.org. Through May 17.

BRATTLEBORO. Telespringar/telegangar course with Annamarie Pluhar and Gideon Morse from 7:30–9:30 pm at the Stone Church. Pre-registration required. Contact (802) 451-1941 or annamariep@mac.com.

BURLINGTON. Booked for Lunch Series. With Alan Broughton, poet, novelist, retired UVM professor of English. Noon at Fletcher Free Library. (802) 865-7211.

NORWICH. Mountain Biking Trip. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. Free. Call leader for details: Claude Janeway. (802) 295-7588. www.greenmountainclub.org.

SOUTH BURLINGTON. Lilac Pruning Workday. Learn how to prune Lilacs properly while helping to spruce up the collections and learn about new lilac varieties. Bring loppers, hand saws, a snack and a friend! Fee: $10. Sponsored by Friends of the Horticulture Farm, UVM. Held at the Hort Farm, Horticultural Research Complex, 65 Green Mountain Dr. 5:30–6:30 pm. (802) 864-3073. David.Heleba@uvm.edu. www.friendsofthehortfarm.org.

SPRINGFIELD. “400 Miles Down The Connecticut River.” Michael Tougias will present a narrated slide presentation. Free. 7 pm at Springfi eld Town Library, 43 Main St. (802) 885-3108. www.springfi eldtownlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 16BELLOWS FALLS. Book and Author Event. Tracey Medeiros, author of Dishing Up Vermont. 7 pm at Village Square Booksellers, 32 the Square. (802) 463-9404. www.villagesquarebooks.com.

BELLOWS FALLS. Bellows Falls Farmers Market. A vibrant community market with great farm products, ready-to-eat food and live music. Free. 4–7 pm at Visitors Center. Great Falls Regional Chamber of Commerce, 17 Depot St. (802) 463-3669. bffarmersmarket.com. Fridays thru Oct 17.

BELLOWS FALLS. Third Friday Art Walk. Stores and galleries in town and surrounding area host special exhibits and events. 5–8 pm. (802) 463-9404. villagesquarebooks.com. Continues monthly on the third Friday.

COLCHESTER. English Country Dance. 7–9:30 pm at the Elley-Long Music Center. 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays. Teaching by Wendy Gilchrist, Martha Kent and Val Medve. Live music on 3rd Fridays. (802) 899-2378 or valandtom@verizon.net.

DANVILLE. Contra Dance with Ben Bergstein (caller) and David Carpenter and April Werner (musicians) at the Town Hall. Part the Danville Dance series, third Fridays. For info call (802) 563-3225 or samlyman@fairpoint.net.

HYDE PARK. Play—Jake’s Women. A comedy from America’s premier comic playwright, Neil Simon. Presented by the Lamoille County Players. Admission. Fri–Sat 7 pm; Sun 2 pm at Hyde Park Opera House, 85 Main St. (802) 888-4507. Through May 18.

MORRISVILLE. Hyjinx Community Arts Festival. Celebrate the community and the arts. Fun for the whole family. Free admission. 4–10 pm at Peoples Academy, 202 Copley Ave. (802) 888-6725. www.morrisville.org.

MORRISVILLE. Live Music: North Star Amblers. 7:30 pm at the Bee’s Knees. (802) 888-7889 or www.thebeesknees-vt.com.

RANDOLPH. Concert: America—Then and Now. Honoring Chandler’s centennial, the Copland House Ensemble takes listeners on a celebratory journey across the American musical landscape to the days when Chandler Music Hall’s cornerstone was laid. Chandler Music Hall, 71–73 Main St. 7:30 pm. Tickets $25, $5. (802) 728-6464. www.chandler-arts.org. www.coplandhouse.org.

RICHMOND. Concert: Serre l’Ecourte (Gabrielle Bouthill-ier, Liette Ramon and Robert Bouthillier) at 7:30 pm at the Richmond Public Library. Presented by Champlain Valley Folk Festival and Events for Tom. For more information please contact epact@gmail.net or (802) 453-3795.

TINMOUTH. Concert: Jazz musician Jenni Johnson and her band. She’ll have you smiling from your soul, while your feet dance happily to the beat. 7:30 pm; doors open at 7 pm. $8 donation. Refreshments available. The Old Firehouse Stage, center of Tinmouth on Rt 140. (802) 446-2928. www.tinmouthvt.org.

VERGENNES. Roger McGuinn in Concert. Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and Byrds co-founder performs. 8 pm at Vergennes Opera House, 120 Main St. For tickets call (802) 877-6737. www.vergennesoperahouse.org.

RIVERKNOLL – Rock Shop

The Gibsons (802) 746-8198

554 VT Rt. 100 - Stockbridge, Vermont 05772

Gifts & JewelryCrystals & Mineral Specimens

Lapidary Equipment & SuppliesGem Cutting Instruction

Collecting EquipmentBead Restringing

Eaton’s Sugar House

Restaurant & Gift ShopVermont Maple Products & Cheese

Royalton, VT • Open Daily 7 am – 3 pmAt Routes 14 & 107, 1⁄4 mile east of I-89, exit 3

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Dandelion AcresGarden Cen ter

Mother's Day Plants & GiftsHouseplants, Seed Starting Supplies

~ Open daily 9 am to 5:30 pm ~Bethel, VT • I-89 Exit 3, 1½ mi. west on Rt. 107

(802) 234-6622 • (888) 234-6622

The Chocolate MooseFine Antiques • Artisan Chocolates

Maria Honkala35 South Windsor Street

South Royalton, VT 05068

802-763-7400Open daily 10–5. Closed Mon & Tues.

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Tozier’s RestaurantRt. 107, Bethel, VT • (802) 234-9400

Dinner Specials—Seafood, Chicken, SteaksEverything Cooked to Order

Window Service Food Available Inside!Open 11 am to 8 pm, Thurs–Sun through May

Breakfast All DayThe best pancakes

in Stockbridge with ourlocally made maple syrup

Daily Specials & Desserts

Fresh & Homemade

Open daily 7 am – 2 pm(802) 746-8811

RV & Truck Parking

GreenMountain

Grille

Route 100Stockbridge

just north of Killington

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 21

Vermont CountryCalendar

Call for your nearest Wholesale Dealer. All product available in standard 50# bags.

Bulk available upon request

Green Mountain Feeds65 Main Street, Bethel, Vermont 05032

Phone (802) 234-6278 / Fax (802) 234-6578

Seed & Fertilizer • Scratch 16% Pig Grower Pellet 16% Pig Grower Mash

Expelled Soybean Whole Roasted Soybean 16% Sheep & Goat Pellet 26% Turkey Starter Mast

Whole Barley 15% Whole Grain Mix

Whole Oats Whole Wheat Molasses (/Lb) Redmond Salt

Redmond Chunks (/Lb) Kelpmeal

18% Chick Grower Pellets 21% Poultry Starter Grower Mash 21% Poultry Starter Grower Pellet

17% Poultry Finisher Pellet 20% Calf Starter Cracked Corn Whole Corn

16% Dairy Pellet 20% Dairy Pellet

12% Horse Feed – Sweet 13% Horse Feed 16% Layer Mash

16% Coarse Layer Mash 18% Layer Mash 16% Layer Pellet

Certifi ed Organic Feeds By Vermont Organic Farms

Store Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday 8:00 am – 12:00 noon

www.greenmountainfeeds.com

Lukana’s Dreama 100% non-profi t global exchange & thrift store

Interesting gifts includingHimalayan Salt Lamps,

Dolls, and Scarves

Open Wed, Thurs, Fri, 10–4 and Sat from 10–3

285 Main Street, Bethel, VT802-234-9444

WINDSOR. Spring Sports Car Race. 3.2 mile race by Sports Car Club of New Hampshire at Mt. Ascutney State Park, 1826 Back Mountain Rd. (802) 674-2060. parks@state.vt.us. www.vtstateparks.com/events.cfm. Through May 18.

WOODSTOCK. Contra Dance with Delia Clark (caller) and the Old Sam Peabody Band at the Little Theater. 5:30 pm dinner, 6:30 pm family dance, 7:30 pm break and dessert (potluck), 8–11 pm for the dance. Bring a pair of clean soft-soled shoes. Contact Steve Hoffman (802) 785-4039 or Jed Dickinson (802) 457-1807. Third Fridays.

SATURDAY, MAY 17BRADFORD. Concert with Drunk Stuntmen. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. www.memh.com.

BRATTLEBORO. Author Appearance—Katherine Hall Page, author of The Body in the Gallery. Free. 4 pm at Mystery on Main Street Bookshop, 119 Main St. (802) 258-2211. info@mysteryonmain.com. www.mysteryonmain.com.

MIDDLEBURY. Trail Work on Bread Loaf Section of the Long Trail. Free, non-members and newcomers welcome. Bring water and a snack. Sponsored by the Bread Loaf Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call the leader Chip Morgan, (802) 388-9868. www.greenmountainclub.org.

BURLINGTON. Spring Trail Work to Clear the Long Trail. Bring work gloves, lunch, water. Tools provided or bring your own. Meet at UVM visitor’s lot at 8 am or Richmond Park & Ride (Exit 11) at 8:30 am. Moderate hike at a moderate pace; 4–10 miles. Free. Sponsored by the Burlington Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leaders Pam Gillis 879-1457 or John Sharp (802) 862-3941. www.greenmountainclub.org.

BURLINGTON. Kids Day. Vermont’s largest children’s festival! Art displays, entertainment, crafts, games, food, and a fabulous parade!! Admission. 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at Burlington’s Waterfront Park. (802) 864-0123. nbove@ci.burlington.vt.us. www.enjoyburlington.com/program/kidsday.

DUXBURY. Bamforth Ridge Trail Work and Hike. 3–4 mile round trip. All abilities. Wear work clothes and gloves. Meet at 8 am. Free. Sponsored by the Montpelier Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader, Ken Hertz: (802) 229-4737 or trails@gmcmontpelier.org. www.greenmountainclub.org.

ESSEX. 2nd Annual Vermont Chocolate Show. Featuring Fine Chocolatiers from New England, New York and beyond. Admission. Sat 10 am – 6 pm, Sun 10 am – 4 pm at the Inn at Essex, 70 Essex Way. (802) 244-8354. vcs2008@vermontchocolateshow.com. www.vermontchocolateshow.com. Through May 18.

ESSEX JUNCTION. Meet Vermont author Rebecca Rupp. She’ll read from her new middle grade novel Sarah Simpson’s Rules for Living. Free. 11 am. Phoenix Books & Café, Essex Shoppes & Cinema. (802) 872-7111. www.phoenixbooks.biz.

FAIRLEE. Wilderness First Responder Review & Re-certifi cationCourse. A fee of $215 includes course, meals & lodging. Day students welcomed. Pre-registration required. Hulbert Outdoor Center. (802) 333-3405. www.alohafoundation.org. Through May 18.

JAMAICA. Fifth Annual Jamaica Fiber Festival. Community-centered Fiber Fun for all! Sheep, spinning, weaving, knitting, vendors, music, food, fi bercraft activities. Free, everyone is welcome. Sat 10 am – 4 pm at Margie’s Muse Fire & Fiber Arts, 3796 Rt 30. (802) 874-7201. margaret@margiesmuse.com. www.jamaicafi berfestival.org.

MANCHESTER. Spring Outing. Beginner backpack hike to Bourn Pond in Lye Brook Wilderness. Easy & moderate, 2.3 mi. each way. Suitable for families & children. Full moon! Free. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details, meeting place and time call leader Trina Perkins, (802) 295-6456. www.greenmountainclub.org.

RUTLAND. Annual Long Trail Spring Cleaning. We’ll clear water bars, trim brush, and cut blowdowns on the lower elevation stretches. Bring work gloves, sturdy shoes, and lunch; tools will be provided. (Rain date: 5/18). Free. 9 am. Sponsored by the Killington Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Herb Ogden at (802) 293-2510. www.greenmountainclub.org.

SOUTH BURLINGTON. Annual Bloom-Time Festival. Come see the extensive collections of crabapples, lilacs, viburnums and other fl owering plants and trees in bloom at the UVM Horticultural Research Complex. Workshops: Rain gardens presentation; tree walk 11 am – 12 pm; the world of bats 12–1 pm including a walk to the new bat house; lilac collection tour. Lilacs and other plants will also be on sale. Sponsored by Friends of the Horticulture Farm. 10 am – 3 pm at the Hort Farm, 65 Green Mountain Dr. Free admission. (802) 864-3073. David.Heleba@uvm.edu. friendsofthehortfarm.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 18BELLOWS FALLS. Encaustic Painting with Jen Bradley. Introduction and demonstration of a more contemporary method of encaustic painting. Admission. 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. (802) 463-3330. info@greatriverarts.org. www.greatriverarts.org.

BRATTLEBORO. Children’s Day Festival of Japan and China. Activities include kite making, crafts, poetry, and much more. Free. At Kiwanis Shelter at Memorial Park. (802) 257-7898.

MARLBORO. Concert: Brattleboro Community Chorus. Works of two of France’s greatest composers: the Gloria by Francis Poulenc, and the Requiem of Maurice Durufl é. 4 pm. Persons Auditorium, Marlboro College. $18 adult, $12 students 18 and under. Tickets: www.brattleborotix.com, and from the Brattleboro Music Center. (802) 257-4523. www.bmcvt.org.

NEWPORT. Concert: Music for a Sunday Afternoon—Constitution Brass Quintet. The quintet’s extensive repertoire spans over four centuries of music. Donation. 4 pm at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 44 Second St. (802) 334-7365. info@musicforasundayafternoon.com. www.musicforasundayafternoon.com

SHELBURNE. Annual Lilac & Gardening Sunday. Opening day for Shelburne Museum’s 2008 season and one of the most popular spring fl ower and gardening events in the region. Walking tours of over 400 lilacs in 90 varieties. Workshops on planting and caring for lilacs and other plants. Also opening day for eight new museum exhibitions. Admission: adults $18, students $13, age 6–18 $9, under 6 free. Shelburne Museum, Route 7. (802) 985-3346. shelburnemuseum.org.

THETFORD. Spring Bike Ride. Choice of 10 or 20 miles, both starting at Union Village Dam Rec Area. Lots of dirt roads; mountain or hybrid bike needed. Free. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Inge Trebitz, (802) 785-2129. www.greenmountainclub.org.

WARREN. Hike Mt. Ellen Ski Trails. We’ll hike up the easiest ski trails to the summit of Mt. Ellen (4083’). There might still be snow on top, so bring snowshoes just in case. Moderate diffi culty, moderate pace, 5 miles, 2600’ elevation gain. Meet at 9 am at the Richmond Park and Ride or 10 am at Sugarbush Mount Ellen Base Lodge. Free, newcomers and non-members welcome. Sponsored by the Burlington Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Russ Kinaman at (802) 879-6666. www.greenmountainclub.org.

WATERBURY CENTER. Annual Sugar Social. Sugar-on-snow, all maple bake sale and book sale. Admission. 1–4 pm at Waterbury Center Community Church, Rt. 100 next to the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. (802) 244-8089. bbtravelers@aol.com.

MONDAY, MAY 19FAIRLEE. Wilderness First Responder Course by SOLO. An 80-hour intensive wilderness emergency care course. Excellent for outdoor enthusiasts or outdoor trip leaders. A fee of $755, includes meals, lodging and course; day student fee: $585. Pre-registration required. Hulbert Outdoor Center. (802) 333-3405. www.alohafoundation.org. Through May 28.

HINESBURG. Hinesburg Artist Series Concert. The Hinesburg Community Band, In Accord, and South County Chorus present their annual Spring Concert. Free admission. 7:30 pm at Champlain Valley Union High School Auditorium. (802) 877-6962. chocal@aol.com. www.hinesburgartistseries.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 20BURLINGTON. Concert by Voice Students of Margot Button: Songs for a While. Free admission. Noon to 1 pm at Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 2 Cherry Street. (802) 864-0471. info@cathedralarts.org. www.cathedralarts.org.

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Royal Towne GiftsThree fl oors of unusual crafts,

beautiful gifts, and home accessories.

See our many new jewelry lines, new bracelets, and Camille Beckman. New linen lines, hooked rugs, chair

pads. Hand lotions, Woodwick Candles.

Rt. 107, Royalton, VT (802) 763-2537 • I-89 Exit 3 (Bethel)

Hours 10–6 Daily � We Ship � Credit Cards Accepted

•Visit Our Second Location •

Royal Towne Gallery & Giftsat Quechee Gorge Village

Rt. 4, Quechee, VT • Open 9:30–5:30

Spring is Here!Perfect Gifts for Mother’s Day. We have Bearington Spring Bears. Try Our Delicious Homemade Fudge!

Vermont Castings Wood & Gas Stoves • Grills • Parts

Authorized Dealer

Mills HardwareMain Street, Bethel, VT • (802) 234-7250

Karen & Scott Mills

Hours: Mon–Fri 7–6, Saturday 7:30–5, Sunday 8–1

MAPLE PIE AND LOST MUFFLERSSpring comes quickly, by and by.

It brings with itsugar snows and maple pie,

and dandelion greens, not so sereneand lost muffl ers on muddy roads.

Did I forget the sounds of peepers and toads?

—RON KRUPP

Vermont Country Calendar GRAFTON. Gardening Program—Under the Canopy: Shade Gardening with Native Plants. Scott LaFleur, head horticulturalist for the New England Wildfl ower Society, discusses the vast array of native plant species that thrive in our area in full and partial shade. 7–8 pm. The Homestead Room at The Old Tavern. Fee: $6. Sponsored by The Nature Museum. (802) 843-2111. staff@nature-museum.org. www.nature-museum.org.

LEBANON, NH. Bike Ride to Mascoma High School and Back on Lebanon Rail Trail. An easy 15-mile outing. Free, non-members and newcomers welcome. Bring water and snacks. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call the leader, Inge Brown, (802) 296-5777. www.greenmountainclub.org.

WOODSTOCK. Program for Preschoolers: When Pigasso Met Mootisse. See the farm as a colorful painting, after reading this wonderful book about a painterly pig and an artsy cow who create an artistic masterpiece and a close friendship. We’ll talk about what we see in the pictures, make our own “moosterpieces,” and share a creative snack with friends. Admission: $5 per person. 9–10:30 am at Billings Farm & Museum, Rt 12N & River Rd, 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt 12. Call to register. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 21BRATTLEBORO. May Forum—Building Sustainable Communities. Cyberspace presentation by Stacy Mitchell from Maine entitled: “The Critical Role that Locally-Owned Businesses Can Play in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Oil Dependence.” Mitchell will answer questions afterwards. Free admission, contributions accepted. Light refreshments. Everyone welcome. 7 pm in Room 2 East at the Marlboro College Grad Center, 28 Vernon St. (802) 869-2141. www.postoilsolutions.org.

GRAFTON. Pre-school Program: Mighty Acorns Explorers Club—Pond Creatures. For ages 3–5 and their caregivers. We will explore outside and visit different habitats and use the many resources the museum has to offer – exhibits, puppet shows, and dramatic play. Session one: 10 am – 12 pm, session two: 1–3 pm. The Nature Museum, 186 Townshend Rd. Fee: $7. Please pre-register. (802) 843-2111. staff@nature-museum.org. www.nature-museum.org.

STOWE. Concert: Noon Music in May. Recital by Organist John Weaver. Sponsored by Stowe

Performing Arts. Free admission. Noon–1 pm at Stowe Community C.hurch, Main St.

(802) 253-7792. spa@stowearts.com. www.stowearts.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 22MANCHESTER CENTER. Author Appearance. Learn the scientifi c basis underlying the practices of indigenous healers when herbalist Pam Montgomery discusses her new book, Plant Spirit Healing. She is a founding member of the Northeast Herbal Association and on the Advisory Board of United Plant Savers. The author of Partner Earth: A Spiritual Ecology, she is a practicing herbalist and plant spirit healer who offers trainings and treatments from her home in Danby, Vermont. Free admission. 7 pm. Northshire Bookstore, 4869 Main St. (802) 362-2200. www.northshire.com.

SHELBURNE. Taste of Place Luncheon. Celebrate the publication of The Taste of Place: A Cultural Journey into Terroir as author Amy Trubek leads you through a guided tasting lunch. Each course is an exploration of the natural environment, regional traditions and artisanal practices of items featured on the menu. Tickets: $30. 12 pm. Inn at Shelburne Farms. (802) 985-8686. www.shelburnefarms.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 23BENNINGTON. Caving Trip: Pilgrimage to Holey Land. Spend Memorial Day weekend caving in the heart of West Virginia. Beginner and advanced trips. Some vertical caves, mostly horizontal. We rent a whole lodge on our own private mountain, with hot tub. $125 per person includes four nights lodging and meals. Group size limited to 18, so reserve early. Sponsored by the Bennington Section of the Green Mountain Club. Contact jonah@sover.net for additional information. www.greenmountainclub.org. Also May 24, 25, 26.

BRADFORD. Concert with The Benders. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. memh.com.

WAITSFIELD. 16th Annual Memorial Day Baked Beads Jewelry Clearance. Dozens of new styles and 75% off retail. Prices starting at $2 on fashion jewelry, accessories and gifts. Free. 10 am – 5 pm at a tented location on Route 100, at 46 Carroll, next to Big Picture Theater & Cafe. (802) 496-2440. clearance@bakedbeads.com. www.bakedbeads.com. Through May 25.

WATERBURY CENTER. 15th Annual Tag Sale. Many items from an estate and more. Free admission. Fri 1–6 pm, Sat & Mon 9 am – 4 pm at Waterbury Center Community Church on Rt. 100, next to Cold Hollow Cider Mill. (802) 244-8089. bbtravelers@aol.com. Through May 26.

WEST DOVER. Grand Race + 2. Teammates will travel by foot and by car in this fi erce and exciting race around southern Vermont to try to win $1200. Entry Fee. Fri 8 pm, Sat 8 am at Mt. Snow. (802) 380-8297. www.celebratethevalley.com. Through May 24.

SATURDAY, MAY 24STATEWIDE. 16th Annual Open Studio Weekend. Vermont’s natural scenic beauty is a wonderful backdrop each spring when Vermont artists and craftspeople invite the public to visit their studios during Memorial Day Weekend. More than 260 sites will be open with more than 285 artists and artisans participating. A great chance to see the work; items will be available for purchase. Free admission. For more information and a map call (802) 223-3380 or visit www.vermontcrafts.com. Also May 25.

ADDISON. Season Opening of the Museum of Native American, French & Early Settlement. Admission. Wed–Sun, 9:30 am – 5 pm at Chimney Point State Historic Site, 7305 Rt. 125. (802) 759-2412. elsa.gilbertson@state.vt.us. www.historicvermont.org/chimneypoint. Thru October 13.

ASCUTNEY. Annual Hike & Picnic Atop Mt. Ascutney. 6 am. Free. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Inge Trebitz, (802) 785-2129. www.greenmountainclub.org.

BENNINGTON. The 23rd Annual Mayfest Arts & Craft Festival. Artisans and specialty food vendors. Mayfest artisans create and design all the wares. Free. 10 am – 5 pm. On Main St. (802) 442-5758 or visit www.betterbennington.com/mayfest.

BRADFORD. Concert with The Benders. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. www.memh.com.

BRATTLEBORO. Author Appearance. Meet Tom Coffey, author of Blood Alley. Free. 2:30 pm at Mystery on Main Street Bookshop, 119 Main St. (802) 258-2211. info@mysteryonmain.com. www.mysteryonmain.com.

BRATTLEBORO. Simi Berman Open Studio Weekend. Oil paintings,collages, prints and cards. Free. 10 am – 4 pm at Hooker-Dunham Building, 139 Main St., 2nd fl oor. (802) 257-3002. simi5@mac.com. www.simiberman.com. Also May 25.

ESSEX JUNCTION. EBPA Memorial Day Parade. Free. 10:30 am to noon at Champlain Valley Exposition, Lincoln and Pearl. (802) 872-8962. lbogardus@verizon.net.

GOSHEN. Silver Lake Hike. Hike from Moosalamoo campground to beautiful Silver Lake with possible extension to see the Falls of Lana. 9 am. Moderate, 6.5 miles. (Rain date: 5/25.) Free. Sponsored by the Killington Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call Sue Thomas, (802) 773-2185. www.greenmountainclub.org.

Page 22 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

“Oil Change to Overhaul”

Jonsered Chain Saws New and Used Tractor Parts

Harvey Lawn MowersOpen Mon–Fri 8–5, Sat 8–Noon

– Mike McPhetres –

FARM-ALL-FIXFarm Machinery Repair

Specializing in Repairs & Restoration of Older Tractors1236 Rt. 12N, Randolph, VT • (802) 728-3390

(Across from Mid-State Riding Rink)

Rt. 12, E. Braintree, VT 05060 (802) 728-5252Open Daily 8 am – 6 pm

“We’re the Capitol of Trades – Home of the Wheeler Dealer!”

Fishing GearFlys • Lures • LineFishing Equipment

Nightcrawlers & worms available in season

GUNS • HANDGUNS • AMMO • SCOPESLarge Selection of New & Used Rifl es, Shotguns & Handguns • Reloading supplies • Buck & Schrade Knives • Hunting & Work Boots • Muzzle Loading

Supplies & Accessories

Complete Line of Groceries & Beer.Excellent Wine Selection

Men’s fl annel and chamois shirts (large sizes)Hunting Jackets & Pants by Johnson Wool

Drop By for the Best All-Season Sports

Equipment!

SINCE 1830

Route 12 • East BraintreeVermont 05060 • (802) 728-5252

photo by Roger EnnisChildren dance around the Maypole at the Fiddlehead Festival in Randolph Center, VT.

Welcome Spring and the New Growing SeasonGarden Starters, Locally Grown Produce,

Dairy, Meats, Cheeses and More. Buy Local Eat Fresh.

Supporting Local FoodsVermont Freshopen all year

Tuesday–Friday 9–6Saturday 9–5, Sunday 10–3

(802) 728-4202

Quality Vermont Grown

Annuals, Perennials,

And Vegetables

Tucker’s Garden Center

3 Greenhouse Ave. & Rt. 66Randolph, VT • (802) 728-6222

Hardy Trees & ShrubsMonday–Saturday 9–5:30

Sunday 10–4

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 23

Vermont CountryCalendar

JEFFERSONVILLE. Outing: Smugglers’ Notch Trail Work & Hike. Free. Sponsored by the Montpelier Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Ken Hertz. (802) 229-4737 or trails@gmcmontpelier.org. www.greenmountainclub.org.

NORTH TROY. Open Studio Weekend. Wooden Horse Arts Guild. Free. Sat & Sun 10 am – 5 pm at American Legion Hall, Dominion Ave. (802) 988-4300.

NORWICH. Contradance with Cuckoo’s Nest. All dances taught, no partner necessary, beginners welcome! Bring a separate pair of clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. 8 pm at Tracy Hall. Admission $8, over 60 by donation, under 16 free. Sponsored by Muskeg Music. Info contact Rick Barrows at (802) 785-4607. rbarrows@cs.dartmouth.edu.

QUECHEE. Opening Day of Live Bird-of-Prey Program. Admission. 7 days a week, 10 am – 5 pm at VINS Nature Center, west of the Gorge on Rt 4. (802) 359-5000. www.vinsweb.org. Through October 20.

RANDOLPH. Mark Shelton Golden Classics Concert. Admission. 7 pm at Chandler Music Hall, 71-73 N. Main St. (802) 754-6464. tickets@chandler-arts.org. www.coplandhouse.org. www.chandler-arts.org

RICHMOND. Women Only Trail Work. Help clear the Long Trail. Bring work gloves, lunch, water. Tools provided or bring your own. Training provided; easy work. Moderate hike at a moderate pace; 4–6 miles. Meet at Richmond Park & Ride (Exit 11) at 8:30 am. Free. Sponsored by the Burlington Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Pam Gillis. (802) 879-1457. www.greenmountainclub.org.

WARDSBORO. From Our Gardens to Yours—Plant Sale. Free. 9 am at Wardsboro Town Common, Rt. 100 and Main St. (802) 896-3416. info@friendsofwardsborolibrary.org. www.friendsofwardsborolibrary.org.

WILMINGTON. Evening Wagon Ride & Bonfi re Party. Admission. 7 pm at Adams Farm, 15 Higley Hill.(802) 464-3762. farmfun@sover.net. www.adamsfamilyfarm.com.

WILMINGTON. Sheep and Wool Weekend. Ongoing demonstrations including sheep and goat shearing. Admission. 10 am – 5 pm at Adams Farm, 15 Higley Hill. (802) 464-3762. farmfun@sover.net. www.adamsfamilyfarm.com. Also May 25.

WOODSTOCK. Annual Sheep Shearing Weekend. Join us for the spring shearing of the Southdown fl ock, plus carding and spinning wool, planting the heirloom garden, historic games, and more. Admission includes our 23rd annual commemorative button and children’s art show. Adults $11; over 62 $10; children 5–15 $6; 3–4 $3; 2 & under free. 10 am – 5 pm at Billings Farm & Museum, 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt. 12. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org. Also May 25.

SUNDAY, MAY 25ADDISON. Addison–Bridport Bike Ride. Easy, 20–25 miles with longer options. Helmets are required. Free, newcomers welcome. Sponsored by the Bread Loaf Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call Walter and Ave Haviland. (802) 496-6677. www.greenmountainclub.org.

BRADFORD. Concert with The Benders. 8:30 pm at Middle Earth Music Hall, Barton St. (802) 222-4748. www.memh.com.

BURLINGTON. 20th Annual Key Bank Vermont City Marathon. 26.2 scenic miles of the greater Burlington area. Admission. 1-800-880-8149. info@runvermont.org. www.runvermont.org.

FERRISBURGH. Opening Day at Rokeby Museum, a National Historic Landmark. 2 pm program with Patricia Kane, curator at Yale University Art Gallery, who will take us on a tour of Rhode Island furniture in Rokeby’s collection. The Robinsons hailed from Newport and brought some pieces to Vermont with them, including a Townsend-Goddard pipe box. The 90-acre farm was home to this remarkable family of Quakers, farmers, abolitionists, authors, and artists. Free admission. Rokeby Museum, Rt. 7. (802) 877-3406. www.rokeby.org.

JOHNSON. God and Country Concert by Lamoille Country Musicians. Musicians and church choirs perform Christian and patriotic pieces. 6 pm at United Church of Johnson, 100 Main St. (802) 635-7249. backusbj@backusfam.net.

NORWICH. Summer Sundays Craft Show. Featuring local artisans, food and live music. Free. 10 am – 3 pm at Norwich Farmers Market, exit 13, I-91 to Rt. 5S, 1 mile to the Market. (802) 436-1427. dvfalls@mac.com.

QUECHEE. Raptor Appreciation Day. Program: Owls-From Snowy to Saw-whet. With Norman Smith, Sanctuary Director, Blue Hills Trailside Museum & Chickatawbut Hill Education Center. Since 1981, Norman Smith has

spent countless days and nights, in every imaginable weather condition, observing, capturing, banding and

color marking Snowy Owls at Logan International Airport. 3:30 pm. Free admission. Vermont

Institute of Natural cience, ¼ mile west of Quechee Gorge on Rt. 4. (802) 359-5000.

www.vinsweb.org.

RANDOLPH. Randolph Road Biking. 30–40 miles, mod-erate to strenuous. Free. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. Call leader for details: Dick Ruben. (802) 234-9093. www.greenmountainclub.org.

WOODSTOCK. Annual Sheep Shearing Weekend. Spring shearing of the Southdown fl ock, plus carding and spinning wool, planting the heirloom garden, historic games, and more. Adults $11; over 62 $10; children 5–15 $6; 3–4 $3; 2 & under free. 10 am – 5 pm. Billings Farm & Museum, 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt. 12. (802) 457-2355. www.billingsfarm.org.

MONDAY, MAY 26THETFORD CENTER. Local Food Workshop: Homestead Chickens for Eggs and Meat. Scot Zens and Niko Horster, Thetford residents experienced in raising farm animals, will discuss many issues related to raising chickens. Free, donations accepted. 10 am – noon. Rice’s Mills Community Center, Rt 132, 100 yards west of Tucker Hill Rd. For more information contact Bob at (802) 785-4126.

UNDERHILL. Full Day Hike on Mansfi eld—North Loop. From Underhill State Park up Halfway House Trail, traverse the ridge to the summit, and return via Sunset Ridge Trail. Diffi cult with strong pace, seven miles, 2600’ elevation gain. Group limit 10. Free with $2–3 per person park fee. Newcomers and non-members are welcome. Bring water and a snack.Sponsored by the Burlington Section of the Green Mountain Club. Call leader Richard Larsen by 5/24. (802) 878-6828 or larsen007@aol.com. www.greenmountainclub.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 27FAIRLEE. Tuesday Bike Ride. A moderate ride in Lyme & Orford, NH and Thetford & Fairlee, VT on River Road and around Lake Morey. About 20 miles, with one mile on dirt road. Free. Newcomers and non-members are welcome. Sponsored by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details contact leaders Richard Larsen and Pam Reese. (802) 280-1775. www.greenmountainclub.org.

SHELBURNE. Community Discussion Course: “Menu for the Future” from the Vermont Earth Institute. This six-week course at Shelburne Farms explores the connection between food and sustainability. Led by Food Systems Coordinator Phoebe Garfi nkel, it will cover a range of topics, including “From Field to Fork,” “Farming for the Future,” and “Local Food Communities.” 6:00–7:30 pm. Everyone is welcome. Fee: $25. (802) 333-3664. www.vtearthinstitute.org. Through July 1.

WOODSTOCK. Program for Preschoolers: Weaving the Rainbow. You and I might see white wool on the sheep, but the weaver sees rainbow sheep. Enjoy this beautifully illustrated journey through the seasons to the spring shearing, then visit our Southdown sheep and lambs. Discover how wool is carded, spun, dyed, and woven and weave your own creation to take home. $5 per person. 9–10:30 am at Billings Farm & Museum, Route 12N & River Rd., 1/2 mile north of the Woodstock village green on Rt. 12. Call to register. (802) 457-2355. info@billingsfarm.org. www.billingsfarm.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28MANCHESTER. Hildene’s 6th Symposium: “Why It Matters: The Nine Most Important Elections in U.S.” Nationally recognized speakers examine nine elections that occurred between 1798 and 1932. Cocktail receptions, box lunches, dinners, tours and a panel discussion. Wed 3 pm through Fri 4 pm. At Hildene and the Equinox Resort. Full registration $350 (does not include lodging). Student and day rates available. Call to register. (802) 367-7960, carrie@hildene.org. www.hildene.org.

Hanging Baskets for Mother’s DayPansies & Annuals

Open Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat 9–6 • Honor system available 7 days a week

Rt. 66, half-way between Randolph Center & East Randolph • (802) 728-3729

WED

DIN

GS

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NIO

NS

•

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OR

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REN

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• WH

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X-C SKIING • SNOWSHOEING • 1,300 ACRES

LIPPITT’S RESTAURANT • MORGAN’S PUB

Randolph, Vermont

GREAT FOOD,

GREAT SERVICE,

GREAT AMBIANCE

Live entertainment on Friday nights. Piano player on Sunday nights. Only 3 miles from Exit 4, I-89.

“The Best Dining Experience in Central Vermont”

www.ThreeStallionInn.com

800-424-5575

Sam & Jinny Sammis, Owners

Wendy’sThis & That

Good selection of clothes: men’s, women’s, baby & maternity. Essential oils,

candles, incense, gift items, toys, books.Always some items on sale!

Open Tues–Thurs 9–4, Fri 10–4, Sat 9–2

Route 12, south of Randolph, VT

2 Merchants Row

Randolph, VT

(802) 728-4405

Homemade

Cooking

Without Cooking

at Home!!

OPENWednesday ~ Saturday

7:00 ~ 2:00

Sunday Breakfast All Day

8:00 ~ 1:00

WILD PLUMThey are unholy who are born To love wild plum at night,Who once have passed it on a road Glimmering and white.

It is as though the darkness had Speech of silver words,Or as though a cloud of stars Perched like ghostly birds.

They are unpitied from their birth And homeless in men’s sightWho love, better than the earth, Wild plum at night.

—ORRICK JOHNS

Page 24 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Vermont Country Calendar

Maple Leaf Farm & Gar den Supply, Inc.

Route 100A, Bridgewater Corners, Vermont.

(802) 672-6223 • Bruce & Alice PagliaOpen Mon–Sat 8–5, Sunday 10–3

Bedding and hanging plants. Farm fresh eggs.Organic fertilizer, peat moss, potting soil, mulches.

Railroad ties, 2008 maple syrup. Farm Supplies and Purina, Poulin & Blue Seal Feeds

aple eaf arm ar den upply, nc.

aple eaf arm ar den upply, nc.

Poulin Grain Dealer

22nd Annual Horse & Ox Competition

Working Dairy Farm • 1890 Farm House Farm Life Exhibits • A Place in the Land fi lm

Plowing Match

Rte. 12 • Woodstock, VT • 802-457-2355

Gateway to Vermont’s Rural HeritageBillings Farm & Museum

Sunday, May 4, 20089:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Lunch & snacks by the Teago Volunteer Fire Dept.

Proceeds benefi t Fire Department

Wagon Rides & Visitor Plowing

Come enjoy authentic Thai cuisine and relax in our com fort able dining room-lounge.

3 Try Delicious Thai Curries: Red, Green, Yellow, Masaman, Panang and Mai Thai Special.Also, Meat & Seafood Specials including

chicken, beef, pork and duck and salmon, cod, catfi sh, scallops, squid and shrimp.

3 Open: Monday–Thursday 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Choose from our a la carte menu or luncheon buffet

Phone (603) 643-9980Fax (603) 643-9984

www.maithaicuisine.com44 South Main Street, Hanover, NH

Thai Cui sine

We serve the Valley ’s famous “OTT-DOGS.” Fresh sandwiches and salads, hamburgers, cold

and hot drinks, and old-fashioned hard ice cream.“We do not serve fast food, we serve good food fast!”

~ Open Daily through Late October ~

Rt. 4, Quechee Gorge, Quechee, VTFamily Operated For 26 years. (802) 295-1088

Every year on Mothers Day, visitors are invited to tour The Inn at Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, VT, from top to bottom before it opens to overnight guests for the season. On Sunday, May 11, from 12 noon to 5 p.m., the Inn—designated a National Historic Landmark — will extend a warm welcome to explore the elegantly restored public rooms on the first fl oor and all of the second and third fl oor guest rooms. Interpreters will be avail-able throughout the house to share information about the architecture, furnishings,

Melissa Pasanen and Chef Rick Gencarelli, co-authors of Cooking with Shelburne Farms: Food and Stories from Vermont.

The Inn at Shelburne Farms opens on Friday, May 9, 2008 for accommodations and for fi ne dining featuring the freshest local ingredients for breakfast, dinner and Sunday brunch—all with spectacular lake and mountain views. For Inn reservations, call (802) 985-8498.

Shelburne Farms is a 1,400-acre working farm, and nonprofi t environmen-tal education organization

• Mothers Day Tour of The Inn at Shelburne Farms •

whose mission is to culti-vate a conservation ethic by teaching and demonstrating the stewardship of natural and agricultural resources. Proceeds from the tours of The Inn at Shelburne Farms benefit Shelburne Farms education programs.

The ticket price is $10/adults; $9/seniors. Tickets for the House Tours are rec-ommended and may be pur-chased from the Shelburne Farms Welcome Center, open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by calling (802) 985-8442.www.shelburnefarms.org.

restoration and history of the founding family.

Designed by architect Rob-ert Henderson Robertson for the William Seward Webb family, Shelburne House was built in 1887 and signifi -cantly modifi ed and enlarged by 1900. After years as the family’s home, where they entertained guests from all over the world, the man-sion on the shores of Lake Champlain, was renovated and opened as a seasonal inn, continuing its tradition of gracious hospitality.

A special feature this year will be demonstrations by

Annual Summer Doe Camp Coming Up at Jay Peak

Vermont Outdoors Woman announces its Seventh An-nual Summer Doe Camp, to be held at Jay Peak Resort, June 20–22, 2008.

Women 18 years and older are invited to participate more than 35 classes of every out-door them. Enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation hands-on workshops with other women

and spend the night social-izing by the campfi re.

The cost is $310 including seven meals, lodging and in-struction. Partial scholarships are available.

Vermont Outdoors Wom-an: vow@voga.org. (802) 425-6211, VOW, P.O. Box 10, N. Ferrisburg, VT 05473.

MONTPELIER. A Lilac Workshop with Jeff Young. Slide show, followed by outdoor discussion & pruning of lilacs. Free. 6–8 pm at Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St. (802) 223-3338. rsenechal@kellogghubbard.org. www.kellogghubbard.org.

STOWE. Stowe Performing Arts Noon Music In May. Winterstein/Zaretsky Duo—Violin and Piano. Free. Noon–1 pm at Stowe Community Church, Main St. (802) 253-7792. spa@stowearts.com. www.stowearts.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 29MIDDLEBURY. Future of Vermont Discussion. What should Vermont’s priorities be for the future? Free. At the Unitarian Church, 6 Cross St. (802) 223-6091. vcrd2@sover.net. www.futureofvermont.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 30BELLOWS FALLS. Digital Video Course for Photographers. Explore digital video with an expert. Fee. Fri to Sun, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. (802) 463-3330. info@greatriverarts.org. www.greatriverarts.org. Through June 1.

BELLOWS FALLS. Still Life Painting in European Tradition. Stanley Bielen brings a European sensibility to the approach of still life painting. Fee. Fri–Sun, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at Great River Arts Institute, 33 Bridge St. (802) 463-3330. info@greatriverarts.org. www.greatriverarts.org. Through June 1.

BURLINGTON. Discover Jazz Festival. Celebrating its 25th year with the sounds of jazz, blues, funk, swing, and Latin music. For ten days an estimated 40,000 people enjoy a unique mix of concerts, dances, jams, street parties, cruises on Lake Champlain, meet-the-artist sessions and workshops. Performers include the Dave Brubeck Quartet, Eek-A-Mouse, and the Grippo Funk Band. (802) 86-FLYNN. www.discoverjazz.com. Through June 8.

GROTON. Becoming an Outdoor Family. Instruction and hands-on classes. Starts at 10 am at Big Deer and Stillwater State Parks, Groton Forest. (802) 257-7967. parks@state.vt.us. www.vtstateparks.com/events.cfm. Through June 2.

LAKE WILLOUGHBY. Outdoor Weekend. Hiking, biking & paddling at Wheeler Pond Camp in the Lake

Willoughby area. Sign up for one, two or three nights. Limited to eight. Free with overnight fee. Sponsored

by the Ottauquechee Section of the Green Mountain Club. For details call leader Dick

Ruben. (802) 234-9093. www.greenmountainclub.org. Also May 31.

MANCHESTER CENTER. Author Appearance. Discover North American travel destinations that are true gems when bestselling author Patricia Schultz presents her new book 1,000 Places to See in the USA and Canada Before You Die. Free admission. 7 pm. Northshire Bookstore, 4869 Main St. (802) 362-2200. www.northshire.com.

SHELDON. 6th Annual Farewell Reunion Concert. Featuring Pete and Karen Sutherland, Will Patton, Jim McGinniss, Tom MacKenzie, Bread and Bones, Glass of Water, Anna Roberts Gevalt, Hannah Crary, Matt Bean, Brian Perkins and Kristina Stykos, Michele Choiniere and others. 7:30 pm at Grace Church. Hosted by Mark Sustic. Presented by Events for Tom and Summer at Grace. For more information contact mrksustc@together.net.

STARKSBORO. Fun, Chocolate & Rummikub. A Women’s Weekend of Rejuvenation. Admission. Fri 1 pm – Sun 3 pm at Common Ground Center, 473 Tatro Rd, (800) 430-2667. info@cgcvt.org. cgcvt.org. Through June 1.

SATURDAY, MAY 31ESSEX JUNCTION. Northern Bronze Handbell Concert. Northern Vermont’s premier handbell choir. Free. 7 pm at First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 39 Main St. (802) 899-3764. jefferis@together.net.

FAIRLEE. American Canoe Association Instructor Certifi cation—Introduction to Flatwater or Moving Water Canoeing. Fee: $245–$530 includes meals & lodging; day student rates available. Hulbert Outdoor Center. (802) 333-3405. www.alohafoundation.org. Through June 2, repeats June 7–9.

HIGHGATE. 2nd Annual Painted Pony Championship Rodeo. Come with family and friends for a fun fi lled afternoon and evening. Admission. Gates open 4 pm, show at 7 pm. Franklin County Field Days, Airport Rd. (802) 527-7171. www.cedaridgestables.com.

MANCHESTER CENTER. Author Appearance. Learn how manager Terry Francona turned the Boston Red Sox into World Series champions when bestselling author Michael Holley discusses his new book, Red Sox Rule: Terry Fran-cona and Boston’s Rise to Dominance. Free admission. 4 pm. Northshire Bookstore, 4869 Main St. (802) 362-2200. www.northshire.com.

MANCHESTER CENTER. Author Appearance. Meet New York Times bestselling author Augusten Burroughs, when he presents his heart-rending new memoir, A Wolf at the Table. Free admission. 7 pm. Northshire Bookstore, 4869 Main St. (802) 362-2200. www.northshire.com.

NEW HAVEN. Lake Dunmore Bike Outing. Bike from New Haven around Lake Dunmore. Moderate, 10–12 mph pace, 36 or 42 mile options. Helmet required. Free. Sponsored by the Bread Loaf Section of the Green Moun-tain Club. For details call leaders Doug McKain and Ruth Penfi eld. (802) 388-5407. www.greenmountainclub.org.

RUTLAND. Concert: Rutland Area Chorus—Paul Winter’s Missa Gaia. Integrating world music with songs from the wild to celebrate the whole earth as a sacred space, the Missa Gaia was commissioned by the Dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine as a contemporary ecumenical Mass. Under the direction of Rip Jackson, and in collaboration with Maris Wolff’s Vermont Dance Collective. 7:30 pm. Grace Congregational Church, 8 Court St. $15 adults, $10 seniors and students, sliding scale available. Advance tickets recommended. (802) 775-4301. www.gracechurchvt.org.

SHELBURNE. Lilac Workshop. Gather up your gardening tools and gloves and learn the fi ner points of pruning and caring for lilacs while providing valuable volunteer service to the Museum. Free. Preregistration required. Participants need not attend a full session. 9 am – 3 pm at Shelburne Museum, Rt 7. (802) 985-3346 x 3349. jricci@shelburnemuseum.org. www.shelburnemuseum.org.

WINDSOR. Green Mountain Madness Gravity Races. Racers compete in street luge, buttboard, dirtsurfer, speedboard, gravity bike and more. Fri at noon, Sat 10 am at Mt. Ascutney State Park. (802) 674-2060. parks@state.vt.us. www.vtstateparks.com. Also June 1.

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 25

All Th ings BeautifulALL things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small,All things wise and wonderful— Th e Lord God made them all.

Each litt le fl ower that opens, Each litt le bird that sings,He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.

Th e purple-headed mountain, Th e river, running by,

Th e morning, and the sunset Th at lighteth up the sky.

Th e tall trees in the green wood, Th e pleasant summer sun,Th e ripe fruits in the garden— He made them every one.

He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tellHow great is God Almighty, Who hath made all things well.

—John Keble

Photos by Nancy Cassidy

A Time to Frolic in Spring Past ures

Page 26 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

North Country Book News

Jewelry, Vermont Products, Used Books Geographical Survey Maps, Sporting Goods

Main St., Fairlee, VT • (802) 333-9709Open Mon–Sat 8–6, Fri 8–7, Sun 8–5

Chapman’sFine Wines

Unique Toys

Newbury, VT 05051

(802) 866-5940 ◆ pbk@sover.net

USED & RARE BOOKS

POST CARDS

EPHEMERA

Bought & Sold

◆ ◆ ◆

By Chance or Appointment

Barre Books“Your Family Bookstore”

A wide selection of new books,

paperbacks, bargain books and

children’s books.158 North Main Street

Barre, VT • (802) 476-3114Open Monday – Saturday

BARRE BOOKS

New, Used, Rare & Publisher Overstock

Rt. 100 in Rochester, Vermont802-767-4258, info@seasonedbooks.com

Visit our Bakery And Dining Room

Breads, pies & cookies,lunches made from scratch.

Free wireless access.

www.seasonedbooks.com

Specializing in books on sustainable agriculture

and rural enterprise.

32 Square, Bellows Falls, VT

Check our website for events: www.villagesquarebooks.com

Events & Workshops for Adults & KidsGreat Selection Of Books Needing A New Home...Extensive Children’s, Young Adult & Teen Sections,

plus Toys & American Girl books & clothesServing Green Mountain coffee & Republic of Tea

Free WIFI in the cafe

Full Service Independent Bookstore — a great place to browse!

Internet, Mail & Telephone Orders OnlyOld & New Books Bought & Sold

Book Searches Welcomedwww.oldschoolhousebooks.com

Open by appointment only on weekends June–Nov

P.O. Box 162, Tunbridge, VT 05077(802) 889-3525 • oldschoolbooks@gmail.com

BEQUEST

This I leave you when I go:Paper smooth as fallen snow,Brush or pencil, pen or quill—Yours the choice, as you will,To mould the lovely and the strongAll day long, all life long.

Train the wild and fl aming wordsIn the way of winging birds—Swift and delicately true.Gently temper them with rue;Give them song of aching mirthTo arouse a drunken earth(Reeling, spinning, faster, faster)To the cursing of disaster,To the panacea of truth,To the glory that is youth!

Life that for a moment lingersIs but water through the fi ngers.Running silver, blue or gold—Who was young is dull and oldSo soon, so soon! Yet not in shameEach shall bear the sacred fl ameTill in turn with heart unvexedHe must pass it to the next.

This I leave you—paper, pen,To be yours awhile, and thenSleep will call you....as a nunTells her beads when day is done,With a prayer for every one.

—KATHLEEN SUTTON1932

Books!Cards, Maps,

Music, Posters, Gifts Special Orders Welcome

Stop in and See Us

Family Owned

Store Hours:Mon-Thur 9-5:30

Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5

27 North Main St,

Randolph, VT

(802) 728-5509

New & Used Books

Thought-Provoking Gifts“On-Line Book Searches”

Trade & Save!

Open Monday–Saturday 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

Robin Model-Lornitzo & Donna Repsher

Owners

208 Main St., Bradford, VT

(802) 222-5826bookedsolid@valley.net

Young readers who enjoy stories based in Vermont will soon be able to discover hundreds of them with the publi-cation of A Guide to Fiction Set in Vermont for Children & Young Adults, published by the Vermont Humanities Council. Written by Ann McKinstry Micou, the book is a follow-up volume to her A Guide to Fiction Set in Vermont (2005) which broke new ground by offering an extensive summary of a state’s literature.

“This is a huge gift to the libraries, schools, and the people of Vermont,” said Grace Worcester Greene, Children’s Ser-vices Consultant at the Vermont Department of Libraries, adding that the guide is “an historical record the likes of which has never been seen before, the only comprehensive record that any state (so far as we know) has of its literature for the young.”

The guide features concise, engaging summaries of 441 titles, including picture books and easy readers, set in Ver-mont between 1838 and 2007. Multiple appendixes and indexes, which made the fi rst guide so accessible, will allow readers to delve into its contents from numerous angles, such

Guide to Vermont Fiction for Children and Young Adultsas by genre, age group, author (including those who lived in Vermont), Vermont towns and the books in which they appeared, and story subjects and themes.

As with the fi rst book, Micou’s research of children’s and young adult fi ction set in Vermont brought unexpected delights. “My surprises were manifold,” she said. “To name one, I was amazed and delighted to fi nd among the authors, some that were meaningful to me when I was a child—for example, Louisa May Alcott, Eleanor Hodgson Porter, and Cornelia Meigs. A second surprise was how moved I was by the confl icts in the characters’ lives. I wept regularly for a year!”

Micou’s journey into cataloging Vermont’s literature began in 1999 when she moved to South Newfane and decided to read through the state’s literary incarnations as a way of learning about the character of the state. Her exploration began as a hobby but soon became a full-time job. Her pas-sion for books, and for stories set in a particular place, has now produced two reference volumes packed with literary discoveries large and small - all rooted in Vermont.

Having mined much of the literary strata of the state—nearly 1,000 works read, catalogued, and summarized in just a few years of work—Micou has understandably drawn much admiration from fellow writers.

“I thought I had read a lot of books, but Ann has me beat!” notes Vermont children’s book author Natalie Kinsey Warnock. “Reading Ann’s book has sent me on a treasure hunt, tracking down wonderful reads that I didn’t know even existed.”

Vermont author David Budbill says of the new book, “From the author’s insightful introduction to the succinct and engaging thumbnail descriptions of the books themselves, this volume is not only a valuable resource, it’s a fascination all by itself.”

A Guide to Fiction Set in Vermont for Children & Young Adults, written by Ann McKinstry Micou, and published by the Vermont Humanities Council is $24 and is available at www.vermonthumanities.org.

Ann McKinstry Micou will make numerous appearances at bookstores, libraries, and conferences throughout the year to sign and discuss her book. Those interested in inviting the author to speak should call (802) 262-2626 x 313.

To learn more about the programs and events sponsored by the Veremont Humanities Council, visit www.vermonthu-manities.org or call (802) 262-2626.

“Help Bring Some Joy to Vermont

Shut-Ins!”

Join The

Vermont Sunshine Society

Contact:Bev Grimes

225 Plateau AcresBradford, VT

05033

• Volunteers Needed• Monthly Newsletter• Free Memberships

Black River Used Books37 Main St., Springfi eld, VT 05156

Tuesday–Friday 10 am to 5:30 pm • Saturday 10 am to 4 pm

(802) 885-1819 • Bill & Linda MattoonMember of VABA

Over 18,000 BooksSpecial OrdersGift Certifi catesBook Searches

Wed.–Sat. 12–6 or appt.Wed.–Sat. 12–6 or appt.

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 27

Hermit Hill BooksUsed, Rare, & Collectible Books

For the Whole Family

Buy • Sell • Book Searches95 Main Street • Poultney, VT

(802) 287-5757Tuesday–Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm

Vermont

Antiquarian

Booksellers

Association�

Visit: www.vermontisbookcountry.com

More Than 70 Dealers

Discovery Christian Book Store�

Christian BooksBibles • Bible Covers

Cards • Videos • Music • GiftsSpecial Orders Welcome • Open every day except Sunday

Dorothy Royce, owner • (802) 438-25852073 Walker Mt. Rd. at East Tinmouth Rd.

Chippenhook, VTA pleasant fi fteen minute drive from Rutland, VT

Fri, Sat, Sun, 11–5 or by chance

Shop thebookshed.com,where the books are discounted

and Media Mail is free.

Buying & Selling Scarce & Rare Books, Prints, Historical Paper & Autographs Since 1980 802 464 8438 at the sign Old Books

Austin s Antiquarian Books

123 West Main Wilmington, Vermont

Austin s Antiquarian Books Austin s Antiquarian Books 123 West Main Wilmington, Vermont

•

Gift s, Music, Bibles, Books, Church Supplies, Artwork, Children’s Books,

135½ Hannaford Square, Bennington, VTRt. 67A, opposite Home Depot • (802) 447-0500

Mon–Th urs & Sat 10–5:30, Fri 10–8

VictoryGift & Book Shoppe, Inc.

postcard courtesy of Bethel Historical SocietyDowntown Bethel, VT many years ago, as pictured in an historic postcard.

❖ SINCE 1975 ❖

1 year (6 issues) $29.00, single copy $8.00

Rural Heritage281 Dean Ridge Lane, Gainesboro, TN 38562-0515

(931) 268-0655 • www.ruralheritage.com

Founded as The Evener in Putney, VT, this bi month ly il-lustrated how-to mag a zine fo cus es on animal-pow ered farm ing and log ging, fea tur ing advice on equip ment, tech niques, and breeds by skilled han dlers of work horses, mules, and oxen from across North America.

Bethel Historical Society

Second Annual Postcard & History Fairby Charles Sutton

Vermonters in Major Baseball Leagues will be one of the featured exhibits at the Second Annual Postcard & History Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 25 at the Whitcomb High School gym in Bethel, VT. The event sponsored by the Bethel Historical Society drew more than 300 history buffs last year.

According to Nick Nikolaidis, BHS president, the baseball exhibit will especially honor four Vermonters including Bos-ton Red Sox player Carlton Fisk who caught in more than 2,000 games; Heinie Stafford who played for the New York Giants in 1916; Pat Putnam who was with the Texas Rang-ers in 1976; and Harry Burrell who was with the St. Louis Browns in 1891. Baseball fans also will be able to purchase sets of 34 baseball cards featuring Vermont players in the major leagues. The cards originally were produced for the Vermont Historical Society.

Other fair exhibits will feature the early years of the Bethel Town Hall (photos and ephemera), and the Bethel Fire Department (including old equipment). At least a dozen vendors will be exhibiting and selling old post cards and rare books.

Nikolaidis is quite a post card collector himself, special-izing in old cards featuring maple sugaring. He also has a sizeable collection of Santa Claus post cards. Dear to his heart and heritage is a collection of about 300 post cards of the Greek royalty, many signed by the Greek kings who ruled from 1863 to 1913!

The U.S. Postal service will have a special post offi ce at the Postcard and History Fair where one may have mail cancelled with a special cancellation dated May 12, 2008, honoring the Bethel Historical Society’s Town Hall Restoration. Visitors will be able to get special “covers” for their collections, and previously stamped and cancelled cachets will also be for sale with the Town Hall theme.

There is free admission to the fair, but special printed programs are for sale to help with the BHS’s fund-raising efforts. The high school’s Boosters will provide food (ham-burgers and hot dogs and other snacks) for both visitors and vendors.

For information about the Postcard & History Fair or to sign up as a dealer or vendor contact Nick Nikolaidis at (802) 234-5064.

Three Vermont writers for children will host a workshop for them on Saturday, May 10 from 2–4 pm at Bear Pond Books in Montpelier, VT.

Authors Michael J. Daley, Rebecca Rupp and Phoebe Stone read from their new-est novels for young people. Kids are encouraged to bring along their own works in progress, and the authors will share and discuss their writ-ing with the group. Topics of discussion may include writ-ing style, genres and good beginnings.

Michael J. Daley is the author of the science fi ction novels Rat Trap and Space

Station Rat. He lives in West-minster, Vermont, with his wife, Jesse Haas. Rebecca Rupp is the author of Sarah Simpson’s Rules for Liv-ing. She is a homeschooling advocate and lives in Shafts-bury, Vermont. Phoebe Stone is the author of Deep Down Popular. She is also an art-ist and lives in Middlebury, Vermont.

The event takes place in the Children’s Room and is free to the public.

Bear Pond Books is located at 77 Main Street in Montpe-lier, VT. (802) 229-0774. www.bearpondbooks.com

Book Discussion and Workshop For Kids at Bear Pond Books

You should be so lucky as to have a guy like Jake wander into your life one day, a guy from up the road who comes to visit and decides to stay. It helps that Jake hap-pens to be a Redheeler, one of those clever Australian Cattle Dogs.

The Jakester lives on Bar-bara and husband Wilbur’s farm along with Hanna and Cindy, two other canine pals. A winsome soul with a sense of humor, he plays lots of

tricks on everyone, schemes to become a housedog, and makes his hopes and aspira-tions fully known.

Watercolor illustrations on every page are done by Jane Felts Mauldin. She gets the dog expressions just right, sure to please any dog lover.

To order, send $8.00 (includes s&h) to Barba-ra Smith, PO Box 1616, Gainesville, TX 76241.www.jakesterbook.com.

Children’s Book Review

• The Jakester •

by Barbara McDaniel Smith

Page 28 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Silver Maple Lodge Circa 1920

SILVER MAPLE LODGE& COTTAGES

Old Time Vermont Vacation ValueA Bed & Breakfast Country Inn Convenient to All Season Recreation,

Two Lakes, Golf & Tennis.Hot Air Balloon Packages Year Round

$69–$109 dbl. occ. Call or write for brochure 1-800-666-1946 • www.silvermaplelodge.com

Route 5, S. Main St., Fairlee, VT 05045 • (802) 333-4326

RENTALS!SPRING FUN!

Explore & Enjoy our Lakes & Rivers!Fishing, Swimming, or just Relaxing!

CanoesKayaksPontoonsOn theConnecticut River!Other possibilities too!Powered by4-strokes!Fishing Boatswith Trailer & Motor

photo by Sarah MontgomeryHoney bee on crabapple—Springtime in Vermont!

Visit a Traditional Family Operated Sugarhouse — IT’S FREE!Personal Guided Tours & Video • Maple Syrup Tasting

Take a Quiet Walk in Our Beautiful Maple Woods

Enjoy Our Large, Unique

Gift ShopMaple Ice Cream

ParlorMaple Creemees

Picnic AreaFarm Animals

Fresh Maple SyrupCandies & CreamTake Some Home

or Have It ShippedFamily-Run for

Five GenerationsFree Catalog

1-800-376-5757

Open every day 8:30 am to 6:00 pm • (802) 223-5757www.braggfarm.com

1 mile north of E. Montpelier Village on Rt. 14 N. (5 Miles from Montpelier or Barre)

“Health & the Hive: A Beekeepers Journey,” a 53 minute fi lm by local fi lmmaker Jan Cannon, explores the impor-tance of honeybees in our lives. Topics addressed in the fi lm include pollination, queen breeding, disease control, bee venom therapy, organic agriculture and honey-based plant medicine.

The central fi gure in the fi lm is Todd Hardie of Honey Gar-den Apiaries on Rt. 7 in Ferrisburgh, VT. Hardie, a lifelong beekeeper, is inspired, articulate and knowledgeable about bees. For him, keeping bees and making plant medicines is a partnership with farmers, horticulturalists, queen breeders and many others. The fi lm follows the web of teamwork that makes up Honey Gardens Apiaries.

The current bee crisis which has received so much media attention is not the central focus of the fi lm, but it is impos-sible to talk about bees these days without addressing that crisis. In the view of one of the experts in the fi lm, the “mys-terious disease of the bees” is nothing more than the conse-quence of bad agricultural practices. Bees, one of the best bio-indicators in nature, the proverbial canaries in the coal mine, reveal how degraded our environment has become.

The fi lm suggests that a more respectful, less industrial ap-proach to agriculture in general and beekeeping in particular

New Jan Cannon Film Explores Honeybeeswill lead to a better outcome for both bees and the humans who are so dependent upon them.

“Health & the Hive: A Beekeepers Journey” is being shown around Vermont and the screenings are free and open to the public. Honey Gardensis offering samples of raw honey and plant medicine at all of the showings.

Visit honeygardens.com for the fi lm’s screening dates and locations. The website also has lots of interesting and useful information, and products for health and well-being using honey and plants. Elderberry Syrup, Wild Cherry Bark Syrup, and Rejuvenation Tonic are among the offerings.

For information about the fi lm, go to www.jancannonfi lms.com/honeybee.htm. Also visit www.honeygardens.com.

1911 was a time of ex-ploration and excitement worldwide, and Vermont was a part of this adventure. Two New York science teachers made their way to Post Mills, Vermont to start a summer camp for the families of children who were attending the other 12 summer camps on Lake Fairlee. It was a time when the pace of life was much slower and the lure of fresh air and nature drew folks from the city to the country.

2008 fi nds that same his-toric camp, originally called Shanty Shane, and now called Ohana Camp, reopening its doors. The Aloha Founda-tion, 100 years old itself, has recently purchased the

property. Founded in 1903, Aloha is known for its excel-lent camps including Hulbert Outdoor Center. Families who have the desire to slow down, reconnect and enjoy each other in the natural world will fi nd the newly re-vived Ohana Camp a unique and perfect vacation spot. The historic lodge has been restored, the quaint cabins with their fieldstone fire-places have been renovated, but the magnificent views and the tranquil setting has not changed.

For information visit www.alohafoundation.org, call (802) 333-3405 or e-mail: lynn_daly@alohafoundation.org.

Family Camp on Lake FairleeRevived after 100 Years

Frost GardensFull Selection of

Annuals & Perennials in Six-Packs

Open Daily9 am – 5 pm

Rt. 5, Ely, VT(2 miles south of Fairlee

2 miles north of Thetford)

We’ll be glad to mail a FREE copy of the Vermont Coun try Sampler to the name you list in the cou pon.

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Vermont Country Sam plerP.O. Box 226, Danby, VT 05739

5/08

Complete & Mail in this Coupon

Free Sam ples!

McQ

ueen Stables & Tack Shop

New & Used Tack and Apparel Bought ’n’ SoldCourbette, Weaver, Devon-Aire, Pro Choice, Leanin’ Tree, EQ

Compare My Prices • Open Your HoursKathy McQueen • 802-785-4493

www.mcqueenstack.com

2 miles up Gove Hill Rd., off Rt. 132, Thetford, VT

Over 200 Saddles!

Horses For Sale on Premises

CERTIFIED ORGANIC VEGGIES & BERRIES

Spring Flowers &Hanging Baskets

—Opening April 26—Pansies, Primroses & Tender Greens

Great Gifts For Moms!Flowers • Garden Tools • Mexican

Pottery • Free gift (with purchase)

Share The Harvest Now taking CSA memberships

Call for a brochure

Mon-Sat 10-6Sun 10-5

Hello CaféDaily 8–5

The

Third

Rail

Friendly, Casual Atmosphere

Fish and Chicken, Steak

Daily SpecialsFull Service Bar

Open 4:30 pm for Dinner Monday-Saturday, closed Sundays

Rt. 5N • Fairlee • VT (Exit 15, I-91)

(802) 333-9126

Piermont Plant PantryOpen House May 3, 10–3Opening May 1, Dawn to Dusk!

Pansies, Hanging Baskets, Annuals, Perennials.

* Visit our Corn Barn Gift Shop *Jams, Jellies, Pickles, Dried Flowers, Crafts.

Wholesade and Retail:Home Greenhouses, Rt. 25, Piermont, NH

(603) 272-4372 • plants_7@aol.com~Abby, Ai, & John Metcalf~

Unique 16-Sided Building

�Our Own Homemade Fudge & Ice Cream. Gelato is here!

Rt. 10, Piermont, N.H.(603) 272-9026

Open Year RoundJanuary 1st – May 31st:

Fri–Sat–Sun, 9–5June 1st – December 31st:

Thurs thru Mon, 9–5

The Over 325 Crafters!

CandlesSpecialty Foods

Garfi eld Smoked Products

Fine CheesesMaple ProductsWooden Things

& Tons More Great Stuff!

photo by Nancy CassidyA team of beautiful dapple gray draft horses make the turn at Billings Farm’s Plowing Match.

Billings Farm & Museum is celebrating its 25th An-niversary Year! Open for the season starting May 1, there are lots of special events and activities for the whole family to enjoy throughout the season.

The farm dates back to 1871, when native Vermont-

er, Frederick Billings, set out to build a farm and forestry operation that would serve future generations as a model of wise stewardship. His farm fl ourished, and today, is still a fi rst-class working farm, operating with a museum of Vermont’s rural heritage.

The 22nd Annual Plow-

Springtime at Billings Farm & Museum ing Match, takes place on Sunday, May 4, with teams of draft horses and oxen competing in the farm fi elds. There will be horse-drawn wagon rides, visitor plowing with the Billings team, and ox programs. The Teago Vol-unteer Fire Department will sell lunch and snacks.

The Annual Sheep Shear-ing Weekend on May 24 & 25 showcases the spring shearing of the farm’s South-down ewes. Visitors can watch and learn about the skills required to turn the fl eece into yarn. Everyone, including children, can take a turn at carding wool and peg-loom weaving.

Bring the family and plan to spend a day on the farm. You can make maple ice cream, see the baby animals, play historic games, partici-

pate in the ox programs with the farm’s team of Shorthorn steers, and visit the heirloom vegetable garden, which will be underway.

The working dairy farm, farm life exhibits, and the restored and furnished farm-house are all included in the entrance fee and provide something for all interests.

Billings Farm and Museum is open daily through October from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission, including special events: adults: $11.00; over 62: $10.00; children 5–15: $6.00; 3–4: $3.00; 2 & un-der: free. Billings Farm is lo-cated one-half mile north of the Woodstock village green on Vermont Route 12.

For more information call (802) 457-2355. billings-farm.org.

566 Stannard Mt. Rd.Danville, VT 05828 • 802-748-2318

sugarridgevt@juno.com

Pure Vermont Maple SyrupVt. Seal of Quality1/2 pints to gallons

Free Brochure • 1-800-748-0892

PIED BEAUTYGlory be to God for dappled things— For skies of couple-color as a brindled cow; For rose-moles all in stipple upon trout that swim;Fresh-fi recoal chestnut-falls; fi nches’ wings; Landscapes plotted and pieced—fold, fallow, and plow; And all trades, their gear and tackle and trim.All things counter, original, spare, strange; Whatever is fi ckle, freckled (who knows how?) With swift, slow; sweet, sour; adazzle, dim;He fathers-forth whose beauty is past change; Praise Him.

—GERARD MANLEY HOPKINS

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 29

Page 30 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

Rt. 302 Barre-Montpelier Rd., Montpelier(Next to Tractor Supply Company)

802-229-2721 • 800-391-7488 • www.fecteauhomes.com

Family Owned & Operated For Over 30 Years

Custom Modular HomesDouble Wide & Single Wide

Trade-Ins WelcomeFinancing

Buy Now–Interest Rates Are Still Low!!

Brian A. ButtonBroker

BUTTON REAL ESTATETel. (802) 685-4679 • Fax (802) 685-3001

Rt. 110, Chelsea, VT 05038Please phone for appointment. Licensed Vt. Real Estate Broker for 39 years.

All sales subjectto owner's ac cep tance.

Write for free list

2050 Washington. 3 Bedroom Cape – 1558 sq. ft. – new hard wood fl oor, plus roof – Old barn, plus 2 car garage – 10.3 acres surveyed land...Price $157,500.

2033 Chelsea. Large 5 Bedroom Cape – 2 full baths – 2650 sq. feet – very good condition – oil hot air, plus propane heat – attached commercial woodworking shop, with all the equipment – shop over 2500 sq. ft. – 4 acres of land......Reduced to $279,500.

2049 Washington. 14x75 ft. 2 bedroom Mobile Home – pull out living room – excellent condition – 1½ baths monitor fuel oil heat – all set up on extra large lot – everything included for $300 a month.........................................Price $17,900.

2024 Chelsea. 24x16 Foot Cabin – 10x24 ft. screened porch – cement foundation – 34.6 acres of land, with about 2 to 3 acres of lawn – private – good gravel road........$139,000.

2029 Tunbridge. Large 2 Story Log Home – 4 Bedrooms – 3 baths – new 5 zone computer controlled hot water heating system – wood/coal stove – 33.1 acres land – total privacy – approx. 4 acres of lawn...Reduced to $285,000.

1874 Orange. 50 acres woodland, about 10 open – small stream – over 3000 ft. on Rt. 302, plus class 4 rd. on the side...$49,000.

2024 Chelsea. 24x16 Foot Cabin – 10x24 ft. screened porch – cement foundation – 11.3 acres of land, with about 2 to 3 acres of lawn – private – good gravel road........$112,600.

2041 Chelsea. 16 ft. Camp – 12.48 acres – 298 ft. frontage on the 1st Branch of the White River – nice waterfalls, from 2nd feeder stream, by camp...$36,500.

“We Put Our Harte In Every Job”

Harte’s FlooringOne Scale Avenue, Building 6W

Howe Center, Rutland, VT • (802) 747-9955

Custom tile, laminate, carpet, hardwoods.

Professional installation of everything we sell. If you have your own material, we will

gladly guarantee a professional installation.

Open Monday–Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Sat 8:30 am – 1:00 pm, Sunday by appointment.

Draft Horse & Pony Pulling

Owners & Enthusiasts!

~ Join the ~ Northeast Kingdom Pulling Association

Denise Marshall, secy.3333 Glover St.

Glover, VT 05839(802) 525-3150

Send $10 yearly membership fee to:

Preserving Vermont’s Last Great Places

Since 1960

27 State StreetMontpelier, VT 05602

Tel. 802/229-4425www.tnc.org

Now Is The Time

To Go Solar!

We will match your government stimulus

check dollar for dollar toward the

purchase of a solar water heating or

other solar system.

Call for details and locations of other

participating USA Solar

Stores.

Uncle Sam The

Solar Man®

Visit the USA Solar Store1531 Rt. 131, Cavendish, VT • (802) 226-7093

Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008 Page 31

Vermont Property Owners Report

Vermont Property Owners Report is a bimonthly news-letter for owners and potential buyers of vacation and primary homes, land, and investment property in Vermont.

Each issue runs 28 pages and contains summaries of general state news, information about the legal and tax aspects of Vermont property ownership (including Act 68), updates on the state’s real estate market, and tips about maintaining and managing your Vermont property.

Among other things, each issue carries a special 11-page section showing recent real estate sales in towns around the state so you can compare actual transaction prices instead of asking prices.

We also keep a close eye on state regulations that can

affect property ownership, as well as stories such as ski area plans and the threat to Vermont lakes and ponds from a foreign aquatic weed. In addition, every issue includes important information about tax and legal matters, such as property taxes, Act 250 and the land gains tax. If you own or plan to buy real estate here, it makes sense to know more about your investment.

Vermont Property Owners Report has been published by attorney and writer Philip K. Dodd for over twenty years, and seems to be fi lling a real need for its sub-scribers. A one-year subscription costs $49. We’ll refund that amount in full if you are not satisfi ed after two issues. To subscribe, mail a check for $49, plus 6% sales tax if mailed to a Vermont address, made payable to “VPOR” to:

Vermont Property Owners ReportPO Box 1564, Dept. CS, Montpelier, VT 05601(Or call (802) 229-2433 to order by credit card.)

• Thinking about buying Vermont real estate?• Looking for facts about the market here?• Want to be better informed about Vermont?

Rural Vermont Real Estate

The Added Character of Handcrafted Homes, Sugar Sheds, Studios, Wood Sheds, Barns,

& Storage Sheds at Con ven tion al ly-Built Prices. Complete 20'x20' Garage Packages.

�See us for your building needs.

Call Ben Rogers (802) 234-6213“Built to Last a Lifetime!”

SUGAR SHED

Post & Beam

East Wallingford, VermontOpen all year. Call for hours & directions

802-259-2841

Hearth & CricketStove Shop

Yearly Truckload of Stoves Arriving Soon. Claim Your

New Quadrafi re Now!

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The Vermont Country Sampler A Great Way To Stay In Touch

With The Vermont We All Know and Love

Guard & Yard, Inc.(802) 824-3597Hearthstone VillageRoute 100,S. Londonderry, VT

Full Caretaking ServicesLawn Care • Snowplowing

Excavation • Gravel • TopsoilRonald & Emily Underwood

Tom and Janice CoutuHome Repairs

Carpentry, Repairs & Remodeling

Renovations, Rot Repairs

Custom Woodworking, Leather, Metal & Glass

Insured • Estimates

(802) 353-8733, (802) 353-8762

Shrewsbury — Land/Camp. 10 wooded acres with one-bedroom cot-tage with septic de-sign for four-bedroom home. Build your own home on this beauti-ful property. $136,000. MLS#2706948

Buying or Selling

a home?

Call Us For

Responsible,

Reliable, Results

Mike Spafford, Lonni Leroux, Scott BolesRt. 7, Clarendon, VT

www.colonialvtrealty.com

East Wallingford—27 acres w/septic design, rolling hills, woods, views. $149,000. MLS#2705085

West Rutland—35 acres, presently zoned commer-cial/resubmitted to be residential. Great views from any spot on this parcel. $145,900. MLS#2710913

Proctor—12.6 acres with views, R.O.W. $59,900. MLS#2707388

Ira—20 acres, wooded, septic in place, views w/selected cuttings. $125,500. MLS#2710542

LAND—LAND—LAND

Wallingford—Move in—completely renovated. New kitchen, granite counter tops, recessed lighting, refi nished hardwood and softwood fl oors, standing seam roof, fenced-in yard. Vinyl siding. $162,500. MLS#2710881

Cuttingsville — Commercial Building on Rte. 103. Great loca-tion for antiques store, be your own boss. $59,900. MLS#2708411

Clarendon—Two-bedroom, riv-erfront location, pool, deck, barn, three-car garage. Large open base-ment, space for extra bedroom. Sell-er motivated. Price now $169,500. MLS#2705765

Free EstimatesRonald & Emily Underwood

Route 100,

Londonderry, VT

(802) 824-3597

R.U. EXCAVATINGSeptics • Foundations

Roads • Driveways

Page 32 Vermont Country Sampler, May 2008

BE GREEN…BE HAPPY !!!

Mother’s Day Annual Open House & Sale!

Open 7 Days a WeekMonday–Friday 10–6, Sat 10–5, Sun 10–3

Greenhouses & Garden Shop

Coming Soon: Our Own Produce!“Support Your Local Growers”

Coger’s Sugar House GardensRt. 10 in North Springfi eld

(802) 886-2791www.cogersugarhouse.com

Fri, Sat, & SunMay 9, 10, & 11

• • •Home grown annuals, perennials, beautiful

hanging baskets and a botanical bounty of

garden and kitchenware just perfect for MOM!

• • •Come join us in the

greenhouses and garden shop and see what’s new.

Free treats & giveaways!

Coger’s Sugar House Gardens of VT

RT. 106RT. 106

RT. 11RT. 11

photo by Nancy CassidyHeifers in the mist under blooming locust trees in Central Vermont.