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2018’s guest judges, Jonathan Goldsmith, and 2017 Best Beard in Vermont and Wish Dad, Bryan Sturge.

Contest underway to find the best beard in Vermont

Published on in Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom/Vermont

NEWPORT — A truly Vermont-style fundraiser is back with the Third Annual Vermont Beardies, the contest to find the best beard in Vermont.

Bearded Vermonters are invited to enter their magnificent scruff and encourage their friends to support Make-A-Wish Vermont through social media appeals.

Contestants will compete online in three categories, Urban, Freestyle, and Backwoods.

The contest will culminate with an exciting evening to name the winner featuring celebrity judges and fun contests.

In order to participate, bearded contestants must pre-register now at www.vermontbeardies.com.

The top beards and fundraisers from the online portion of the contest will be invited to participate in a series of in-person contests to judge the majesty of their beards on March 16th at ArtsRiot in Burlington.

Fresh off his Super Bowl ad, the judging panel will include Jonathan Goldsmith, best known as Dos Equis’ original Most Interesting Man In The World.

While promising to be a night of awesome beards, crazy contests, and tons of laughs, the Vermont Beardies is being held to raise much-needed funding for Make-A-Wish Vermont.

The goal of the event is to fund wishes for three children in Vermont facing critical illnesses.

Visit www.vermontbeardies.com to enter your beard and invite your friends to support your rise to the top of the 2019 Vermont Beardies.

Vanilla Ice on Lake Memphremagog

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — A bottle of pure vanilla extract next to a few blocks of ice sits waiting on Lake Memphremagog. Get it? Vanilla Ice.

It’s a question as old as the lake herself. Every spring we muse over the age-old question, “when do you think the ice will go out?”

Lake Memphremagog is deep, with ice as thick as 30 inches some winters, but Vermonters never tire watching for any indicative sign of the changing season.​

To celebrate this time-honored tradition, and to make things a little more interesting while we wait, Newport Parks & Recreation runs the annual contest for residents and visitors on Lake Memphremagog.

Each year a weighted mascot is placed in the bay at ​Gardner Memorial Park​ attached to a time clock.

The mascot for this year’s “ICE OUT” content is the work of Newport Parks foreman Mac McKenny.

The facade can be seen from the Causeway bridge and stands steadfast through snowstorms, wind and rain until the ice beneath finally gives way to the early warmth of spring.

When the mascot drops, the Ice Out clock stops recording the official moment that the ice is out in Newport. People keep pretty close tabs on the facade as they pass the Causeway.

“It gives the community something to look for on the lake and they get a kick out of it,” Jessica Booth, Director of Parks & Recreation for the City of Newport, said.

Booth and McKenny say they’re always inundated with calls and emails as soon as the mascot goes under.

“Checking the clock throughout the day is part of the fun while we’re working around Gardner park,” said McKenny, who is in charge of making the official call for ice-out time. “But if the ice goes out on the weekend or in the evening when we’re not around, there’s plenty of people ready to report in.”

When the ice finally does go out on Lake Memphremagog, the news is always welcome to one lucky contestant who entered the closest prediction in the annual contest.

The nearest prediction, without going past, to the actual date and time wins 50 percent of the contest pool. The pool usually totals about $500, depending on ticket sales.

The other half of Ice Out proceeds will benefit the Gardner Memorial Park ​Playground & Splashp​ad Project this year.

Memphremagog Ice Out tickets can be purchased at Little G’s Deli, Hoagies, Jimmy Kwik, Westside Market, East Main General or the Parks & Recreation office.

Predictions can be submitted online too at NewportRecreation.org/ICEOUT.

Deadline to submit your guess is Monday, April 1, 2019, or when the ice goes out, whichever comes first.

For more information, call Newport Parks & Recreation at 802-334-6345.

Newport man arrested following shooting

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — Police in Newport arrested a man after a shooting last night.

Larry Brown, 49, of Newport was arrested and charged with aggravated assault.

On Thursday, police initiated an investigation after a man arrived at the station and reported that Brown had shot at him following an argument.

The man alleged Brown fired two shots in his direction, but neither round struck him.

Police say they conducted a more thorough on-scene investigation at Brown’s residence, where the altercation allegedly occurred.

Through their investigation, police allege that Brown and the victim had been spending time together when an argument ensued and that Brown fired a weapon at the victim as he was leaving.

A spent shell casing was located on the ground at the scene and seized as evidence.

There were no injuries as a result of the incident.

Brown was released on his own recognizance, on the condition that he not consume alcohol or be in the possession of any firearms or deadly weapons.

He was also ordered to stay away from the victim and that he appears for his arraignment, which was scheduled for today at 12:30 p.m.

Photo © Eric Hanson

Elinor Osborn of Albany receives Citizen Scientist of the Year Award

Published on in Albany/Newport/News

ALBANY — The Vermont Center for Ecostudies (VCE) recently announced Elinor Osborn of Albany as the recipient of the 2018 Julie Nicholson Citizen Science Award.

Established in 2009, the annual Julie Nicholson Citizen Science Award honors volunteer Julie Nicholson’s extraordinary passion and commitment to birds and wildlife conservation through her many years of tireless work as a citizen scientist.

Elinor Osborn was chosen as the 2018 awardee as she exemplifies this same spirit and dedication to conservation and citizen science.

So, what is a citizen scientist? A citizen scientist is an individual who voluntarily contributes their time, effort, and resources to collect or analyze data in collaboration with professional scientists.

A science background is not necessary to participate—just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Elinor’s commitment to citizen science and wildlife conservation spans decades—and includes contributions to the Vermont Loon Conservation Project, the Second Atlas of Breeding Birds of Vermont, the Vermont Butterfly Survey, and the Vermont Bumble Bee Atlas.

An accomplished professional photographer, Elinor has donated many stunning photographs for use in VCE’s and other conservation nonprofit’s outreach materials.

Before coming to Vermont, Elinor and her husband George lived in upstate New York—she working as a music teacher and George as a trombonist in the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

After retiring, she had the good fortune to follow the Trumpeter Swan Migration Project, photographing and writing a children’s book about it.

Elinor and George started coming to Vermont to ski at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center about 1980, and moved to the area when they retired.

Soon after, Elinor began photographing loons and participating in VCE projects.

“Elinor has covered Great Hosmer Pond as an adopt-a-lake volunteer since the late 1990s,” says Eric Hanson, VCE’s loon biologist and leader of VCE’s Vermont Loon Conservation Project. “She and George spent many nights helping me with loon banding efforts and nighttime rescues. They kayaked lakes all over the Northeast Kingdom to monitor loons for VCE.”

Before George passed away in 2016, he joined Elinor on some of her adventures.

She recalls one night vividly—canoeing in the dark amid lurking stumps, watching Eric spotlight and eventually capture a loon.

Back on shore, she watched as Eric banded the loon and collected blood and feather samples.

“On the same night on another lake, before another capture, we saw clouds of bats darting and shining silver in the spotlight, just above the water,” Osborn recalls. “That loon was entangled in fishing line. While I held the loon’s beak just enough to keep it from opening, Eric surgically removed the line, then returned the loon to the water. Then we tumbled into our motel beds at 4:00 a.m. after a wonderful night with loons.”

These adventures and others led Elinor to write and photograph an article on loon conservation in Vermont for Vermont Life Magazine in 2003.

These days, Elinor walks a half mile down the road to check on the nesting loon pair at the south end of Great Hosmer Pond several times a week each summer.

Or when she has a chance to kayak, she checks on the whole of Great Hosmer Pond as well as Little Hosmer Pond for loon activity.

You can learn more about the Julie Nicholson Citizen Science Award and citizen science opportunities at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies website: https://vtecostudies.org.

NVRH, NCH expand joint sleep medicine venture with new facility

Published on in Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom/St. Johnsbury

ST. JOHNSBURY — Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) in St. Johnsbury and North Country Hospital (NCH) in Newport have collaborated to enhance sleep medicine services in Vermont with the opening of an expanded Northern Vermont Center for Sleep Disorders location

The center will open February 4.

The new clinic, which offers the latest in comprehensive diagnostics and treatment of sleep-related conditions, is conveniently located off I-91 (Exit 22) at 468 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury.

The joint venture between NVRH and NCH currently has two locations – one in Newport, at North Country Hospital, which will remain open, and one on the NVRH campus, which will transition to the new clinic location in St. Johnsbury.

“Through this partnership, the two hospitals are demonstrating a commitment to addressing the growing need for sleep medicine services in the Northeast Kingdom and beyond by investing in this new and expanded second location,” NVRH CEO Shawn Tester said.

The new clinic features four sleep rooms and four treatment rooms.

Each sleep room is equipped with a bed, television, adjustable lighting, individual climate control, and other features.

It is staffed and managed by Medical Director Veronika Jedlovszky MD, Weili Gray, MD, and Danielle Speer, ANP, as well as technicians to conduct the night time studies.

“The new clinic will provide more comprehensive and timely care for both consults and sleep studies for patients throughout the region,” Jedlovszky said.

Nearly 100 million Americans report problems with sleep disorders, which can affect an individual’s ability to function throughout the day and lead to other health problems such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

“Having seen the growth of the sleep center partnership over the last six years, it really was imperative that we make this expansion to meet the demand,” added North Country’s COO and the sleep clinic’s project lead, Tom Frank. “Our top-notch physicians, nurse practitioner and sleep technicians will complement both centers with sleep medicine and pulmonary care services, second to none.”

The center evaluates for and treats the full spectrum of sleep disorders in adults and children, including obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, nocturnal hypoventilation, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, narcolepsy, other hypersomnia conditions, REM behavioral disorder, and other parasomnias.

Services include sleep consultation for adult and pediatric patients, sleep consultation for CDL exam, positive airway pressure therapy, CPAP, BIPAP, ASV, and other modes, oral appliance therapy, sleep hygiene education, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and medication management of various sleep disorders.

Tests available through the center include adult and pediatric diagnostic polysomnogram, adult and pediatric titration polysomnogram, multiple sleep latency test (MSLT), and home sleep study.

Sleep studies are available both weeknights and weekends.

Patients are encouraged to talk with their primary care provider about a referral to the sleep clinic and may also call 802-748-7901 with questions.

For more information visit www.northcountryhospital.org or www.nvrh.org.

An official ribbon-cutting and community open house will take place in late spring 2019.

Newport armed robbery suspect taken into custody

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — Police say that a Newport man who has been on the run since June of 2018 was arrested today.

Lucas Putvain, 31, was arrested at around 1:00 p.m. at a location on Western Avenue in Newport City.

Putvain has an extensive criminal history and allegedly robbed a man at gunpoint back in November of 2018.

The victim told police Putvain and another person ordered him to get into their car and held him at gunpoint.

Police say he demanded money before pushing the victim out of the car. Putvain had three active warrants at the time.

In December of 2018, he was seen traveling on West Street in Derby, before police say he fled at a high rate of speed.

Police did not initiate a pursuit at that time because Putvain was traveling with children in the vehicle.

Police say during today’s arrest, 29-year-old Cassaundra Walker, of Newport, was also arrested on several outstanding warrants.

Both were taken into custody without incident and are scheduled to be seen in Orleans Superior Court this afternoon.

Mayor’s Statement Regarding City of Newport Wastewater Treatment Facility, Leachate, Landfill Expansion

Published on in Letter to the Editor/Newport

The following letter to the editor was submitted by Newport Mayor Paul Monette.

At the October 15, 2018 Newport City Council Regular Meeting, Charlie Pronto, representing D.U.M.P., and Robert Benoit, representing Memphremagog Conservation, presented their concerns that leachate may be leaking from the landfill, that the City’s Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) may not be properly equipped to treat leachate given “PFAS” concerns, and, they asked the City to formally oppose the landfill expansion.

Upon the completion of their presentation, Mr. Chenette moved that the City stop taking leachate until proven safe, and to oppose the expansion of the landfill. The vote was unanimous.

The City listened to the concerns expressed by these community members, took immediate action by suspending the acceptance of leachate to allow the council members time to research the concerns expressed about the leachate, about the WWTF, and, they wrote a letter to the Act 250 Commission opposing the landfill expansion.

The Council recognized they had yet to hear a formal presentation from the landfill and they had yet to hear from the Agency of Natural Resources, that is the regulatory authority for the landfill as well as the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. The motion was intentionally worded so that Council could take action to either deem leachate safe or unsafe.

The City of Newport held an open house at the Wastewater Treatment Plant on Saturday, November 3. The purpose was to invite the public to tour the WWTF so that they could see the inner workings, and ask questions about the digestion and regulatory process.

The City then hosted a public forum on Tuesday, November 27, 2018, where the public was invited to attend a presentation by The Vt. Agency of Natural Resources as well as Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

The meeting presented an opportunity for the public to learn about the State’s regulatory authority over the landfill and the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The meeting also presented the public with an opportunity to ask Casella Land Systems’ questions.

The Agency confirmed that “DEC has determined that leachate can continue to be managed at WWTFs with no adverse impacts to human health or the environment from PFAS in the waters receiving that effluent.”

Further, the Agency confirmed that “there is no indication that the NEWSVT lined landfill is leaking,” and that “no groundwater contamination from the unlined landfill has been detected at or near the property boundary of the NEWSVT facility.”

Their findings can be found on the City’s webpage at this link: https://goo.gl/P7Cfjk

After the November 27, public forum, I continued my research separate and apart from the presentations, and I did take the time to visit the Casella landfill on the Airport Road. Other council members did the same.

At a regularly scheduled council meeting on December 17, 2018, another presentation was provided to include representatives from D.U.M.P., the Agency of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Conservation, Solid Waste District and Casella Waste Systems, Inc. (NEWSVT).

After a lengthy and spirited discussion which included many questions from the public, Council President Denis Chenette moved that “based on the research done by and information provided to the council, I move that we resume the acceptance of leachate at the Wastewater Treatment Facility.

The levels of contaminants are found to be well within the federal standards, as well as the state standards which are even more restrictive.

Furthermore, I would like to see a partnering of the City of Newport and Casella Waste Management regarding the research and possible implementation of future upgrading to the City’s wastewater treatment plant with the oversight of the appropriate state department.

I would also move that the letter to the Act 250 Commission be withdrawn due to information regarding air quality and the implementation of systems currently in use and proposed at the Casella facility located in Coventry.

Seconded by Ms. Raboin. The motion passed on a 3 to 2 decision.

This decision was made after the council members deemed it was safe to treat leachate at our Waste Water Treatment Facility through conducting hours of research.

I was the tie-breaking vote because I put emotions aside and based my decision on science, research, and the evidence presented by the State of Vermont that is the regulatory authority.

At this time I want to stress to the public that our Waste Water Treatment Facility is not polluting Lake Mempremagog.

It meets or exceeds the standards set by the State of Vermont and EPA. Our city employees take pride in the operation of our facility. I can assure the public that the effluent discharged into the Clyde River, and the safety of the public and the lake is and will always be a top priority of the City.

We have always been, and are committed to being, in compliance with our permit and the state regulatory authority.

Once leachate was proven safe, the next responsibility for the Council was to look at the economics. If the city were to suspend taking leacheate, which has been proven safe and has been a normal part of operations since 2009, the sewer rents in both Newport and Derby would see a $200 increase in their annual sewer rates in order to compensate for the gap that a termination of leachate treatment would cause.

Casella Waste Systems Inc.’s current ANR permit requires them to investigate both on and off-site pre-treatment methods for leachate and PFAS. The City will also soon be required to adopt an ‘Industrial Waste Ordinance.’

The City Council believes we will have some advantages by partnering with Casella on our respective mandated upgrade costs which could eventually have a favorable impact on the utility rents.

Regarding the petitions which the city council voted not to place on the ballot for Town Meeting. The City Council respects the right for citizens to bring petitions forward.

However, based upon a review of these petitions and a validity question posed by a member of the public, I continued to do more research. I learned that the subject matter contained in the requested petitions are beyond the authority of the voters to decide at town meeting.

In other words, a vote on these articles would not be binding. The requests in the petitions are reserved to the City Council, who is charged with the supervisory authority of the City.

It is the City Council that has the authority and control over the utility systems and it is the City Council’s responsibility to determine the appropriateness of any contract.

Vermont Statutes are clear that the City Council has these inherent authorities. For these reasons, the Council is not obligated to include the requested articles in the warning, even when the requirements for presenting the petitions were satisfied.

Both the Vermont League of Cities and Towns and the City Attorney advised us that since the articles are non-binding, it is better not to give a false impression to the voters.

I have been the Mayor of the City of Newport for 10 years and it is a responsibility I take very seriously. My first priority is the ethical treatment of our citizens and their concerns.

This has been an emotional matter for some of our citizens and I am proud of the way the City Council handled these concerns.

We listened, we took action, did our research and made a timely determination based on science, evidence, facts and the best interest for the City.

It may not be the decision some of our citizens had hoped for. It is, however, a decision based on a sound process and I am confident our conclusion is the best for the City of Newport. ​

I expect the people of Newport to be passionate about difficult matters. In the end, we are all Vermonters and proud of our strong community.

Northeast Kingdom Collaborative task forces release action plans

Published on in Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom

NEWPORT — More than two-dozen leaders and experts from across Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties are sharing their recommendations for progress in the region, after six months of discussion and deliberation.

Two task forces convened by the nonprofit Northeast Kingdom Collaborative have each released a plan detailing projects that they believe can be started in 2019 and will have a measurable impact in areas crucial to the future of the Northeast Kingdom.

These areas include developing a generation of local leaders and supporting economic growth at the intersection of the creative, recreational and food sectors.

“We brought together a diverse set of people who really know these topics to dig in and develop their best ideas,” said Katherine Sims, Director of the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative. “We’re very excited about the creativity and specificity of the vision that came out of both of the groups.”

The release of these two plans represents a new phase for the revamped Northeast Kingdom Collaborative.

The organization has been working to increase coordination and communication among NEK businesses and nonprofits for more than 20 years.

During that time, it has assisted the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Rural Economic Advancement Program (REAP) in identifying priorities for investment in the region.

In 2018, it launched a new strategy involving a reformatted governing board, a new paid director, as well as closer ties with private funders and the task force process.

“With these recommendations in hand, the next stage for the new year will be working with Task Force members and other organizations to bring that vision to life,” Sims said. “These plans are a blueprint for our work together over the next year and beyond.”

The Leadership Development Task Force put its weight behind six initiatives in its plan, “Grow Your Own,” after seeking public input through three Leadership Summits last summer.

One is to empower emerging local leaders by launching an intensive NEK leadership institute and a more informal women’s leadership learning circle.

Another is to offer more affordable and accessible professional development opportunities through a new series of classes, as well as a new NEK Training Scholarship Fund.

Other initiatives are to connect current and emerging leaders via a new mentor network and integrate new community members through a new outreach program.

Among the organizations taking the lead in pursuing these projects are Northwoods Stewardship Center, NEK Young Professionals Network, Northern Vermont University, and the Northeastern Vermont Development Association.

This tri-sector task force focused on how to advance economic development at the intersection of the region’s three most dynamic sectors, which includes the creative, recreation, and food sectors.

In a report, the collaborative prioritizes five initiatives.

One is to coordinate and expand marketing the region by establishing an NEK Regional Marketing Partnership Advisory Group with several specific priorities.

Another is to sustain and grow place-based events by formalizing an “NEK Event Backbone” program run by a regional event assistance provider.

Other initiatives put forward are to enhance economic growth through rural community hubs with new investments in infrastructure that would connect outdoor recreation assets to the creative and food sectors, as well as to expand access to tri-sector experiences for kids, by starting an NEK Kids Program Fund.

Organizations leading these projects include Catamount Arts, Northern Forest Center and the Northern Community Investment Corporation.

Both task forces focused in on the importance of increasing connectivity in the region by expanding access to business-class high-speed broadband in community hubs and true high-speed broadband to residences.

Both recommended working with stakeholders to develop another detailed action plan for specific work in this area.

Greater details on the proposed programs, the Task Force process and the NEK Collaborative are available in the reports.

“We want these reports read by everyone who cares about making this region flourish over the long term,” Sims said. “We’re going to need everyone pitching in to help.”

Newport Winter Festival coming February 2

Published on in Arts and Entertainment/Newport/News

NEWPORT — This year’s Winter Festival will kick off at Newport’s Gardner Memorial Park on Saturday, February 2.

Come celebrate timeless Vermont traditions like snowmobiling, ice skating, broomball, and bonfires.

Guy Fortin Broomball Tournament

With broomball skills, smooth line changes and athletic ability optional, this casual tournament has become a favorite Winter Festival activity for residents and visitors alike.

No skates or skills required, the emphasis is placed on camaraderie and old fashioned winter fun.

Players can recruit family members, colleagues, and neighbors to assemble a team and put for an effort to win the coveted championship t-shirts and bragging rights.

Cost is $10 per person to support Winter Festival fireworks.

Sign-up with a full team of 6-10 or sign-up individually as a “free agent,” and organizers will put you on a team.

Registration is due by January 28th.

Fire & Ice Radar Runs

The roar of high-speed engines resonates from Lake Memphremagog during the radar runs outside the Eastside Restaurant during Winter Festival.

This one-day competition showcases local riders competing for speed down a thousand-foot track on the lake.

With categories for all ages, some of the fastest sleds have traveled over 130 miles per hour.

Winners from a variety of age divisions take home trophies and celebrate with an after-race banquet at 4:00 p.m. inside the restaurant.

Registration at 9:00 a.m., runs begin at 11:00 a.m.

Family Events & Fireworks at Gardner Park

As the tournaments and the day’s festivities wind down, families are invited to gather at the park at 5:00 p.m. for the Winter Festival finale.

Finish the evening with free ice skating, a bonfire, and a spectacular firework display over the bay on Lake Memphremagog at 7:00 p.m.

Don’t miss the hysterical Hoagie’s pizza eating contest and Chuck-a-Puck 50/50 fundraiser too to benefit the Gardner Park Playground and Splashpad Project.

Admission to the park is free, but donations are appreciated to support the event.

Nothing chases the frostbite blues away like heartwarming time spent with family and friends. Whether you’re participating in a tournament or simply watching, you’re going to love this winter wonderland weekend.

Driver injured in two-vehicle crash in Coventry

Published on in coventry/Newport/News

COVENTRY — A 22-year-old woman from Connecticut was transported to North Country Hospital after a two-vehicle crash in Coventry this morning.

The police were notified at around 7:00 a.m. that a vehicle headed south on Vermont Route 14, sild through the intersection of Route 5 and collided with an unloaded tanker trailer.

The driver was identified as Danielle Browning, of Hebron, CT.

Police say the truck was being operated by John Judd, 37, of Newport Center.

Judd was headed north on Route 5, and according to the report, he noticed Browning’s vehicle approach the intersection unable to stop.

He slowed down and moved as far to the right as he could but was unable to avoid the collision.

Browning’s vehicle slid partially underneath the tanker trailer which caused her to sustain what police describe as “incapacitating injuries.”

She was transported to North Country Hospital by Newport EMS.

Newport Fire Department also arrived on scene and assisted.

Road to Jay Peak closed twice during storm

Published on in Jay/Newport/News

JAY — Vermont Agency of Transportation crews were busy at Jay Peak this morning during the snowstorm after vehicles were unable to make it up the hill.

At 8:48 a.m. police responded to a report of a vehicle crash on Vermont Route 242, in Westfield, the back side of Jay Peak.

There was one vehicle in the snow bank and 47 vehicles who were not able to make the hill to the resort and were blocking traffic.

Both sides of Route 242 were shut down for approximately one hour while the vehicles were turned around to wait at the bottom of the mountain until AOT was able to plow the roadway for traffic to flow.

At 11:14 a.m. the Vermont State Police were back in Jay after two tour buses got stuck trying to go up the mountain.

One of the tour buses ended up blocking both lanes of travel.

Route 242 was closed again for approximately one and a half hours.

Rossi recognized for “spirit of courage”

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — Michelle Rossi has been recognized by the Orleans County Restorative Justice Center for her “spirit of courage.”

She was presented with the award surrounded by family, friends and the Justice Center board on Wednesday evening at the Goodrich Library.

Rossi, a resident of Newport City, is involved with Girl Scouts, the ENCORE program at North Country Union Highschool, Newport City’s Promise Community, ReNewport, Big Brother/Big Sisters, and several other community-building initiatives.

Last summer, she stepped forward at a city council meeting, petitioning the city to address the presence of drug activity in her neighborhood.

Since then, she has worked persistently with others to lead a more vibrant and responsive neighborhood.

Her many admirers say they appreciate her unflagging energy and can-do perspective.

“I am inspired by her every day,” Colleen Moore-d’Ortiz, her neighbor, said. “To me, she sets an example through her actions of living with love in our neighborhood. Honestly, I never really felt like a real member of the community until we became friends. Being a part of Michelle’s community helps give me the strength to keep showing up.”

Her strength of character, community leadership, and courage to step out are primary reasons for selecting Rossi for this award.

She is the first recipient of the award, designed to be given occasionally at the recommendation of the Justice Center board of directors.

“There are so many community-driven people here that are making a difference and ushering positive change, but in a quiet, consistent and thoughtful way that supports justice and care,” said Barbara Morrow, Justice Center executive director. “The board really wants to recognize these local heroes.”

The recognition includes a small monetary gift and a hand-blown statue from Vermont artist Lada Bohac, of a giraffe.

“Michelle’s conviction to the belief that, by improving her skills she can make herself and her community better is the essence of good citizenship,” said Justice Center Board Chair, Steven Mason

Newport man arrested after an altercation involving a shotgun

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — Police arrested a man on assault and reckless endangerment charges following a fight early this morning.

Kyler Baker, 21, of Newport, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and recklessly endangering another person.

Police officers were dispatched to the fight on Bayview Street at around 1:40 a.m.

They arrived at the Family Dollar on Main Street a short time later and located two males, including Baker and a female.

Police allege Baker walked toward the officers upon their arrival and raised his jacket to reveal a firearm.

He subsequently complied with officers to drop the weapon and placed the 12 gauge, short barreled shotgun on the ground.

Officers say they secured the gun and observed that there was a spent shell in the chamber and was warm to the touch.

Newport Police conducted an on-scene investigation and learned that Baker had been involved in an altercation with another man who was at the scene.

During the altercation, he allegedly fired the gun in the direction of the other man.

As a result of the investigation, Baker was taken into custody.

He was held on $10,000 bail at the Northern State Correctional Facility.

There were no injuries as a result of the altercation.

Helicopters used to collar moose in the NEK

Published on in Essex County/Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom/Outdoors

NEWPORT — Residents may have seen a helicopter flying low overhead as the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department began collaring 30 moose for the third year of a three-year study.

The radio-collaring is being carried out primarily within Essex County by a professional contractor.

Capture efforts require flying just above tree height and are expected to take between 5 and 10 days.

“Many local residents may have noticed these helicopters capturing moose in January of 2017 and 2018, but we felt all Essex County residents and landowners should once again be made aware of this activity,” said Cedric Alexander, Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s lead moose biologist.

Wildlife experts will be using nets to capture moose from the helicopter and handling it without the use of tranquilizers.

The processing of a captured moose is completed in minutes and is done using well-established wildlife handling techniques that minimize stress and harm to the animal.

Ninety-six moose have already been captured using these methods thus far in the study.

Department staff having been tracking collared moose for the past two years using the GPS points gathered by the collars and have been visiting moose directly in the field to record observations.

Vermont is the fourth northeastern state to partake in such a study – state fish and wildlife agencies in New Hampshire, Maine, and New York are currently using the same methods to examine their moose herds.

The study will be completed at the end of this year.

“Moose in the Northeast are facing a variety of threats ranging from a warming climate to increasing winter tick loads, and we appreciate the public’s support as we study how these factors are impacting Vermont’s moose population,” Alexander said.

Solar and storage workshops coming to Newport

Published on in Newport/News/Sponsored Post

NEWPORT — Do you have a backup source of energy if your power goes out? Have you been seeing your friends and neighbors going solar? If so, there are two upcoming workshops in Newport for you.

Erin Rocheleau, SunCommon’s Community Partnership organizer, will be going over new options for homeowners in Vermont and clueing folks into the latest technology of the Tesla Powerwall 2.0.

The first event will take place at the United Church of Newport, located at 63 3rd Street. It will take place on Saturday, January 26, at 1:00 p.m.

SunCommon now offers Home Energy Storage, which offers the ability to store your solar power for back-up during outages.

When storms hit and the power goes out, your solar and battery work together to keep the essentials of your home running.

No more filling the bathtub with water, no more worrying about your pipes freezing, or needing to get to a hotel as the temperatures drop. No more cleaning out a fridge full of spoiled food.

Homes with solar and storage enjoy the reliability of backup power and support a more reliable and efficient grid for their community.

Come hear about the latest technology in solar and battery storage combinations for homes and businesses.

For more info on the January workshop, email Erin at erin.rocheleau@suncommon.com or call 802-398-7118.

The second event in Newport will take place at the Gateway Center on Friday, February 8, at 11:30 a.m.

Join this group for a complimentary lunch and hear about the benefits of going solar.

Solar incentives for Vermont businesses can help you save up to 50 percent off the cost of your solar array, but these incentives are on the decline. So now is the best time to take advantage of these offers.

To register for this event, call Carrie at 802-398-5696 or email carrie.fenn@suncommon.com.

Single-vehicle rollover on I-91

Published on in Derby/Newport/News

DERBY — A 35-year-old man from Newport escaped with minor injuries after rolling his vehicle on I-91 on Saturday night.

Police and emergency crews responded at around 9:00 p.m. to a report of a single-vehicle rollover crash near mile marker 171 on I-91 south, in Derby.

The driver was identified as Nathan Kemnitz.

Police say Kemnitz reported minor injuries and was transported to North Country Hospital.

According to the report he traveled off the side of the road down a slight embankment.

The vehicle rolled and landed back on four wheels.

Newport Ambulance and Derby Fire were at the scene to assist.

New video series highlights two Northeast Kingdom farmers

Published on in Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom

NEWPORT — Waterfront Cinema will be showing two videos from the Faces of Vermont Agriculture series, which is a collection of eight short video profiles that highlight outstanding stewards of the land who live and farm in the Green Mountain State.

These dedicated farmers tell viewers in their own words, why conservation matters to their bottom line, to the health and sustainability of the resources on and around their farm, and to the future of farming.

Two local farmers, Merle Young III, and Paul Lisai, are highlighted in the series and their video profiles will be featured as opening trailers to every movie at Waterfront Cinema in Newport for the next three months.

Merle Young III, is a fifth-generation farmer who understands and believes in the importance of maintaining good soil health.

He and his family have been working for many years to improve the farm’s soil health by seeding cover crops in the fall on their silage corn fields, following crop rotations, expanding their vegetative buffers and understanding the farms nutrient management plan, all of which reduce soil loss and protect water quality.

The Young farm also has the only NRCS funded strip cropped fields in Orleans County.

Strip cropping is the practice of growing planned rotations of row crops, forages, small grains, or fallow in a systematic arrangement of equal width strips across a field to reduce soil erosion from water and transport of sediment.

Paul Lisai, former Orleans County NRCD board member, is doing a great deal of work to protect and improve his farm’s natural resources, including installing pasture infrastructure and implementing an intensive grazing system to improve the farms forages, soil health, milk production, and climate resiliency.

“The short but powerful messages in the videos help the public better understand the efforts that many of our cherished NEK farmers are making to ensure that their impact on natural resources is beneficial.” Sarah Damsell, the Orleans County NRCD Manager said.

You can view the videos below:

Local teen swimmer selected one of Vermont Sports Magazine’s Athletes of the Year

Published on in Derby/Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom/Outdoors

DERBY – Fourteen-year-old Vera Rivard has been selected as one of Vermont Sports Magazine’s 2018 Athletes of the Year.

Vera and her family live in Springfield, NH and have a summer camp in Derby with access to Lake Memphremagog, where she trains.

During the winter she swims with Upper Valley Aquatic Club.

In July of 2018, Vera became the youngest swimmer, male or female, to swim the 25-mile length of Lake Memphremagog, which she did in 16 hours and 24 minutes.

Just as impressive, she did so against fierce headwinds during the first 15 miles, which knocked five other experienced swimmers out of the water, leaving her among only two who finished in Magog.

In August of 2018, she also completed the NEK Swim Week, 8 Lakes over the course of 9 days, double-crossing Lac Massawippi and Willoughby, for a total of 60 miles on all eight lakes.

At the beginning of the year, in February of 2018, she became the youngest swimmer to participate in the Memphremagog Winter Swim Festival, swimming each and every event from the 25-meter hat competition to the 200-meter freestyle.

This year, she leads a group of four youth swimmers participating in the festival, including her eleven-year-old sister Margaret.

She started her open water swimming in 2014, when she was 10, with a 1-mile swim at Kingdom Swim and a 3-mile swim at Caspian.

She has grown her distances each year since then.

While she was swimming Kingdom Swim’s 10-mile course in 2016 around the islands of Derby Bay, she and her mother fell in love with the lake, and her family bought a summer camp in Derby, with access to Lake Memphremagog.

Rollover on West Street in Derby

Published on in Derby/Newport/News

DERBY — A 44-year-old man from Maine escaped uninjured after rolling his vehicle in Derby on Sunday.

At around 8:50 a.m. police responded to the single-vehicle rollover on West Street.

The operator was identified as Jeffrey Andrews, of Strong, ME.

Police say he was traveling west in a 2009 Subaru Forrester at approximately 40 miles-per-hour before the incident.

Andrews failed to maintain control of his vehicle leaving the north side of the roadway crashing into boulders and rolling over into the roadway.

He was not injured, however, the vehicle was totaled.

According to the police report, the roads were slick and snow covered at the time.

Now Playing Newport music series grand finale this Saturday

Published on in Arts and Entertainment/Newport/News

NEWPORT –Now Playing Newport, the local Vermont concert series that has delighted audiences in the Northeast Kingdom over the past five years, will be presenting its final production on Saturday.

The show will take place January 12, at 7:00 p.m. at the United Church of Newport on Third Street.

This grand finale is in concert with the MAC Center for the Arts performing Liberated Libretto: A Frolic with Gilbert and Sullivan.

Anita Morin, Sally Rivard, Allen Cubit, Ron St John III and Lynn Leimer with Janice Luce on piano, will showcase the humor and history of the dynamic Gilbert and Sullivan duo with favorites such as Modern Major General from Pirates of Penzance, Three Little Maids from the MIKADO and When I Got Out of Doors from Patience.

The revue captures the satire as well as the musicality that made the operettas famous.

All proceeds will benefit the MAC’s ADA upgrade to their venue. Tickets for the event are available at the door.

The Now Playing Newport series will be staging no future shows.

Series Director Jim McKimm says closing out the series was a long thought decision.

He thanks all series partners over the years, those who attended the programs, as well as St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and the United Church of Newport.

Police: Man arrested after firing shots at parked vehicle in Orleans

Published on in Newport/News/Orleans

ORLEANS — Police were called to Orleans this afternoon after a report that gunshots were fired into a parked vehicle.

At around 1:30 p.m. police arrived at the scene on First Avenue.

According to a statement issued by police, there was a family disturbance at the time of the incident.

Nobody was inside the vehicle, and nobody was harmed.

The suspect, Craig Daniels, 30, of Orleans, was not there when police arrived but he was located shortly afterward.

Police allege Daniels shot a firearm into the parked vehicle and in doing so recklessly engaged in conduct which placed another person in danger of death or serious bodily injury.

Daniels also damaged the vehicle which was not his.

He was placed under arrest for reckless endangerment and unlawful mischief and taken to Derby for processing.

Daniels was cited into court and released into the care of Northeast Kingdom Human Services.

Sights set on playground transformation and splash pad at Gardner Park

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — Last month the Newport City Council approved a resolution authorizing Newport Parks & Recreation to pursue a $180,000 grant through the Vermont Land & Water Conservation Fund.

The ambitious request will support a $400,000 proposed renovation to the playground and restroom facilities in Gardner Memorial Park, tentatively scheduled for the 2020 summer season.

Centrally located, Gardner is the most well known of all city parks.

The 20-acre parcel is home to several athletic fields including basketball courts, pickleball, soccer, football, baseball and softball fields.

Each year numerous community events, concerts, farmers markets, and private gatherings are booked at the park, but most users visit for unstructured recreational use.

“On average, we see about 20,000 residents and visitors annually participating in unstructured activities like picnicking, fishing, skateboarding, walking dogs, and ice skating at the park,” said Jessica Booth, Parks & Recreation Director for the City of Newport. “Nearly half of those visitors, about 9,000 between May and November, come to enjoy the playground area.”

Mac McKenny, foreman at Gardner Memorial Park says the playground is one of the biggest draws for the facility despite aging structures and lackluster play equipment.

“The play area is pretty tired and is long overdue for replacement,” Mckenny, a certified playground inspector, said. “Some of the structures are more than thirty years old, and parents who bring their children are always joking about how they played on the same equipment when they were kids.”

Mckenny also says there are concerns around safety and accessibility for some of the outdated structures.

Gardner Park Restoration, a local parent-volunteer group, successfully raised about $15,000 toward the purchase of new equipment over the past few years.

“People don’t know that a single slide can cost $2,000-4,000, and larger structures start around $30,000. It adds up quickly,” says Jenn Smith, chair of the Newport Recreation Committee and lead of Gardner Park Restoration.

Smith says the community is ready for something more than a few replaced elements at the park and they’re pleased to know that fundraising efforts will help the city pursue large grants that require a cash match.

“We’d rather see the restoration funds leveraged for the bigger picture, rather than spent on one or two small pieces of equipment,” Smith added.

The proposed renovation includes a reorganization of the play area layout with more room for picnicking, age-appropriate play structures, accessible surfacing, a sail-shade pavilion, and the biggest crowd pleaser, a new splash pad.

“When we share the idea, that’s always the wow-factor,” said Booth.

Splash pads are outdoor play areas with shoots of water spraying up from the ground. They’re popping up in parks all over the country as a safer, lower maintenance alternative to public pools.

With Gardner’s proximity to Lake Memphremagog and downtown, Booth thinks the addition of a water feature like this has the potential to put the park on the map and make it the destination it should be.

A splash pad in Gardner Park would be one of the first in the state developed in a public park, preceded only by Bennington, which is set to open their pad this spring.

The project at Gardner Park will also include improvements to pedestrian safety and upgrades to the restroom facility to support increased patronage.

While much of the project will be grant funded, Parks & Recreation has enlisted the help of the Recreation Committee to help close the $200,000 fundraising gap between now and July of 2020.

“The Restoration funds are a start, but there is still much work to be done before this plan will become reality,” said Smith.

Over the next 18 months, the Recreation Committee will spearhead a variety of fundraising events and welcome donations from private businesses or families who wish to contribute to the project.

“It’s a lofty goal, but we think the community is ready to make this happen for our families and future children.”

Anyone interested in donating or participating in fundraising initiatives for the Gardner Park playground and splash pad project can contact:

Newport Parks & Recreation at 802-334-6345 or, email info@NewportRecreation.org

Additional information can be found online at NewportRecreation.org or on Facebook at “Gardner Park Restoration.”

Car crashes into utility pole in Newport Center

Published on in Jay/Newport/News

NEWPORT — An 18-year-old driver escaped uninjured after crashing into a utility pole in Newport Center on Monday.

At around 9:15 p.m. police responded to the single-vehicle crash on Searles Road.

Police say the driver, identified as Rider Morse, of Jay, traveled off the road and struck the utility pole, snapping it in half.

According to the report, Morse was not injured during the crash, but the vehicle, a 2008 Nissan Altima, had to be towed from the scene.

Vermont Electric responded afterward to replace the utility pole.

Fatal crash in Irasburg

Published on in Irasburg/Newport/News

IRASBURG — A 21-year-old man from Albany was killed during a crash in Irasburg this afternoon.

Emergency workers were dispatched to the collision which took place in front of Bob’s Quick Stop.

According to police, Walter Earle, 65, of Irasburg, was headed south on Vermont Route 14, when Laine Ross, 21, of Albany, attempted to enter the convenience store.

Police say he pulled in front of Earle, who attempted to brake, but was unable to avoid hitting Ross’s vehicle which had crossed over into his lane of travel.

Ross was pronounced dead at the scene.

Both vehicles entered the parking lot area of Bob’s Quick Stop and struck three unoccupied vehicles.

Police say the investigation is still ongoing at this time.

DUI crash in Irasburg almost hits home

Published on in Irasburg/Newport/News

IRASBURG — A 49-year-old Irasburg man is facing charges after a single-vehicle crash in Irasburg on Monday night.

Police responded to the scene on Vermont Route 14 at around 9:00 p.m.

Police say they met with the driver, identified as Albert Cole, inside the ambulance.

According to the report, Cole drove off the road and rolled the vehicle, coming to a stop just feet before striking a house.

He was the only occupant inside the vehicle.

Police say he suffered minor, non-life threatening injuries.

“Further investigation revealed Cole was impaired. Cole was arrested for suspicion of DUI and transported to the Derby barracks,” a statement issued by trooper Mikkola reads.

He was later released on a citation to appear in court.

VT Fish & Wildlife to conduct angler survey on Lake Memphremagog

Published on in Newport/News/Outdoors/Quebec

NEWPORT – The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is beginning an angler survey on Lake Memphremagog this December.

The survey will extend through November 2020 and will survey anglers on both the American and Canadian sections of the lake.

Clerks from the department will interview anglers on the lake 2 to 4 days per week, including Saturdays and Sundays during the survey period.

Survey activities will include visual counts of anglers, interviews of anglers to obtain information about the fishing effort, catch and harvest rates, and biological data such as the length, weight, and age of fish kept by anglers.

The Great Lakes Fishery Commission funded the two-year survey.

Lake Memphremagog is over 30 miles long.

Three-quarters of the lake is in Quebec, however, three-quarters of the land area that drains into the lake, is in Vermont.

“The angler survey will provide important biological data about the fishery and angling pressure in different areas of Lake Memphremagog,” said Pete Emerson, a fisheries biologist with Vermont Fish & Wildlife. “This information is extremely useful to our department in helping us manage the lake’s fish populations.”

Emerson emphasized to anglers that all information shared with the survey clerks will remain confidential.

“Ultimately, anglers providing honest, accurate information will allow us to manage the resource moving forward and ensure that quality fishing opportunities remain in Lake Memphremagog for years to come,” he said.

Driver in fatal West Charleston crash sentenced

Published on in Charleston/Derby/Holland/Newport/News

NEWPORT — The driver during a fatal crash in West Charleston that took the lives of two Orleans County residents back in 2016, has been sentenced.

Earlier in the year Joshua Cole pleaded guilty to charges of manslaughter and gross negligent operation, and last week was sentenced to serve eight to 15 years behind bars.

Back in May of 2016, Cole was driving a 1994 Honda Prelude in the town of West Charleston when he lost control while exiting a sharp corner.

The vehicle traveled off the north side of the road, where it struck a large tree.

Three passengers in the Honda at the time were all ejected from the vehicle.

Esperanza Robles, 29, of Derby Line, and Ryan Coulter, 26, of Newport, were killed during the crash.

Amanda Letourneau, of East Charleston, suffered head and leg injuries.

Investigators said that speed and alcohol were both factors in the crash.

While facing manslaughter charges, Cole was arrested in Holland back in August of 2017, after police said he was driving an ATV and almost ran into a car on Gore Road.

After the new charges, a judge ordered that he be held without bail pending the trial in this manslaughter case.

Christmas trees stolen from farm in Barton

Published on in Barton/Newport/News

BARTON — Police are investigating the theft of brush and Christmas trees from a tree farm in Barton, and the owner is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest.

The owner of the farm told police that an unknown individual or individuals had gained access to his property on Fulton Lane through a locked gate by cutting the lock, sometime around November 23.

“The toughest part of the whole thing is that most people don’t know how much time and effort it takes to grow a Christmas tree,” owner Greg Dowd said. “Trees only grow about one foot a year, so it takes seven to ten years to have a nice seven or eight-foot tree. And that’s if everything goes well.”

Dowd says those responsible stole several thousand dollars worth of Christmas trees and brush from his property, as well as a game camera which he was using for security purposes.

He is offering the $1,000 reward to help find out who did this.

Police say the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to please the Sheriff’s Department at 802-334-3333.

“It’s very discouraging when something like this happens,” Dowd added.

Trevor Evans leading a workshop on his property in Derby.

Trevor Evans to receive 2018 George Buzzell Forest Stewardship Award

Published on in Derby/Newport/News

EAST CHARLESTON — The NorthWoods Stewardship Center recently announce that Trevor Evans of Derby will receive this year’s George Buzzell Forest Stewardship Award.

The award is given annually to a person who has made significant contributions to sustainable forestry and education in the Northeast Kingdom.

Evans has shown an exceptional commitment to managing his own forestland in Derby since the 1980s and is an active member of many forestry organizations.

Over the years, he has been sharing his knowledge and passion for good forestry with students, landowners, and foresters.

In addition to his outstanding efforts to promote sustainable forestry, Evans was a friend and colleague of the late George Buzzell, and the two collaborated on managing his forestland.

“Evans carries the spirit and dedication that George brought to his work, and NorthWoods is honored to recognize this with the 2018 George Buzzell Forest Stewardship Award,” Sam Perron, Sustainable Forestry Coordinator at NorthWoods, said.

Evans will be presented with the award at a ceremony on February 5, 2019, at 6 p.m. at the NorthWoods Stewardship Center.

All are invited to attend.

(left to right) Fred's Energy Derby office receptionist Desiree, NEKCA's Merry Hamel, Fred's Energy General Manager Dennis Percy, and Rachel Twofoot from Northpoint with toys dropped off to the Fred's Energy Derby office.

Toy drives make it a happier holiday for many local children

Published on in Derby/Newport/News/Northeast Kingdom

DERBY — This holiday season, Fred’s Energy helped to collect donations for local toy drives at each of their three office locations.

The Fred’s Energy Derby office collected for the NEKCA and Northpoint Toys for Kids toy drive. Toys for Kids is helping approximately 191 families this year.

In addition, for every toy dropped off, donors were eligible to enter for a chance to win 100 gallons of propane or oil and a 3 foot tall snowman gift tower filled with holiday treats.

Cindy Royer of Barton was selected from the entries at the Derby office.

The Fred’s Energy Lyndonville office collected for the St. Johnsbury Fire Department Kingdom Santa Fund. The fund will be helping approximately 500 families this year.

The Fred’s Energy Morrisville office collected toys for The Lamoille Family Center Holiday Project. The project will be helping 323 children this year.

All donated toys are being distributed locally.

Becky Gonyea of Morrisville was the winner selected at the Morrisville office.

The winner from the Fred’s Energy Lyndonville office asked to make an anonymous donation of the fuel to be split between two households in need.

MWA awarded $4,500 for Youth Discovery Program

Published on in Newport/News

NEWPORT — The Memphremagog Watershed Association (MWA) recently received a $4,500 grant from the Vermont Community Foundation’s Northeast Kingdom Fund.

The grant will help the association’s mission of protecting and preserving the environment and natural beauty of the watershed by providing hands-on education for area elementary school classes.

“We are so pleased to have received this grant from the Vermont Community Foundation,” said Kendall Lambert, Administrative Director of MWA. “This will be the 5th year that we have run our Youth Discovery Program.”

The Youth Discovery Program is an educational field trip program for elementary school classes on Lake Memphremagog.

Students learn about the watershed, challenges, and conservation solutions.

“The program has received tremendous support from local businesses and volunteers over the years, and this new funding will allow us to build on our community support to further enhance the educational experience for our local elementary school students,” Lambert added.

The MWA is a non-profit that was founded in 2007.

Newport armed robbery suspect flees police with children in vehicle

Published on in Derby/Newport/News

DERBY — Police are looking for a 31-year-old fugitive considered armed and dangerous after he fled police with several children in his vehicle.

According to police, Lucas Putvain was spotted traveling on West Street in Derby when he saw a marked state police vehicle.

Putvain fled at a high rate of speed. He was last seen traveling east.

Police say they did not initiate a pursuit because of the children in the vehicle.

Putvain is wanted for an armed robbery that took place in Newport back in November, in which he and an accomplice ordered a man into a vehicle at gunpoint.

Putvain is charged with assault and robbery, unlawful restraint in the first degree, and in possession of a deadly weapon while committing a crime.

Police say he is armed and dangerous and should not be approached.

Anyone with information regarding Putvain should immediately contact the Vermont State Police.

VSO’s Brass Quintet and Counterpoint Chorus to visit Newport December 21

Published on in Arts and Entertainment/Newport

NEWPORT — The Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s (VSO) Brass Quintet is teaming up with Counterpoint Chorus for another year of celebrating the holiday season with traditional favorites, a carol singalong, and more.

The pairing will present an evening of festive music and jubilee to Newport on December 21.

The event will take place at the United Church of Newport.

The ensemble will feature the Vermont premiere of Nancy Tillman’s beloved children’s book, “On the Night You Were Born,” by Vermont composer Travis Ramsey — as well as a world premiere composition by Burlington High School freshman Nancy Widyawati, entitled “Snowfall.”

A violist in the Vermont Youth Orchestra, Widyawati has been composing music through the Music-COMP program for three years.

For more information and tickets, please visit www.vso.org.

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