By Evan Johnson
Killington visitors and locals hauled their Christmas trees to Charity’s Tavern and Restaurant on Sunday evening for bonfire and fundraiser.
The event was a benefit for the Killington-Pico Rotary club and Vermont Special Olympics, which will hold the 2018 Winter games at Pico Mountain, March 18-20.
Special Olympic Vermont Athlete Jack Rasmussen led a lap around the parking lot holding a torch and then set the fire ablaze at 5:30 p.m. to loud cheers. Music was provided by MC Sounds, playing a fun mix of fire related songs. Kids were treated to a snowball target range where they could practice their skills on targets of varying degrees of difficulty.
A total of 100 people brought some 45 trees to create a bonfire with flames that leapt 20 feet high. Aside from the fire, 26 people lined up at eight shot skis to set the bar for next year’s event.
The group raised a total of $600 and are planning to continue fundraising to meet their $1,000 goal. A jar will also be available at Boss Office Works in Killington. Online donations can be made at www.killingtonpicorotary.org.