By Polly Mikula Killington Mountain School kicked off local graduation ceremonies on June 2; other area schools followed shortly after with Rutland High School celebrating at Spartan Arena on June 13 and Woodstock Union High School at Union Arena, June 14. Inherent in most all graduation speeches is the send-off of a new generation of…

Slate Valley to vote for fifth time, Tuesday June 18 By Polly Mikula Editor's note: The story first published as "Many area school districts are still working to pass budgets" has been updated to reflect the passage of school bonds June 11 and 12 for Barstow, Otter Valley and Hartland. While voters in at least…

 Killington Resort announced Thursday that it would indeed be opening June 1 for skiing and riding on Superstar; it'll be the 196th operating day of the season. This is the third year in a row Killington’s season has lasted into June on Superstar, the same trail which will host the Stifel Killington Cup over Thanksgiving…

By Polly Mikula Ricky Bowen, foreman for the town of Killington highways and facilities, stepped away from that post on May 15 after 36 years of service.  “The town will not publicly comment further because of respect for the process and because this is a personnel matter,” wrote Town Manager Michael Ramsey. “However, during the…

Each spring, cities from New York to Texas celebrate the spectacular blooming of ornamental cherry trees. In many cultures, the lovely, delicate pink and white cherry blossoms symbolize rebirth and renewal, as well as the fleeting nature of life. Beyond these showy cultivated trees, our region boasts three native cherry species, which are important in…

When I saw the obituary for Lucian Wiskoski back in March I realized that he was the last of Rutland’s downtown pharmacists whom I had the pleasure of knowing from childhood into adulthood. Back in the ‘50s five pharmacies were located in downtown Rutland. They were: Shangraw’s, Carpenter’s, Carroll Cut Rate, McClallen’s, and Beauchamp &…

I couldn’t find my center of balance for the life of me. A few days off from skiing and I felt like a fish flopping about on dry land. I would get stuck in the rut and get launched upwards and then I could feel my weight slamming into the back of my boots. The…

I never dreamed of being a writer, I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. It was an early morning in 1994, and I was standing in the composition department of the Mountain Times, having been hired the prior year as a part-time graphic artist. Computers were just coming onto…

Building a Killington dream lodge: Part 13 Dad was focused and totally devoted to building his Killington dream lodge each weekend. It became his life purpose and passion to build his heart-felt legacy for our family. His dedication was inspiring to behold. Mom was committed (they were still married) but she had other interests, as…

By Meira Christine It’s that time of year.  Rhubarb’s in season, Spring fevered Feminist movementbe damned  I’ll make pie If it pleases me And chase men, too No promises of pie though Fork you! Really serious about That. Just thankful the foolery of April is Done with And all of that You-know-what Bring on the…

The grass sparkles as we walk to the car.  The dew flies from the bird’s wings after they fly away.  My boots tap the freshly damp ground and leave imprints.  The wind blows my hair side to side.  Birds whistle and chirp in the distance.  The sun just opens its eyes to the world.  Good…

Sometimes, a situation can be so unbelievable, so stark or so out of your comfort zone, that it doesn’t even fully register on your radar that it happened. Even when the blatantly obvious is right under your nose, you still don’t see it. Even when those who know, those who speak from experience, the blind…

Friday, May 17 at 7 p.m. —SHREWSBURY—Scott Garren will present an overview of the recent  total solar eclipse of April 8, at the Shrewsbury Library, 98 Town Hill Road, Shrewsbury. This is  a follow-up to his program last December.  Participants are encouraged to share their stories and impressions and to bring their photos to be…

Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m.—LUDLOW—The third annual Divided Sky Fun(d) Run is a morning filled with fitness and community spirit. This event aims to support the Divided Sky Foundation and the Springfield and Rutland Turning Point Centers. Lace up your running shoes and  meet at Jackson Gore, 111 Jackson Gore Road, Ludlow. Schedule: Friday, May…