By Karen D. Lorentz Editors note: This is the first of a three-part series that explores how innovations at Okemo and Killington enabled them to become successful ski resorts that also contributed to the growth of the ski industry in Vermont, the East, and the nation. Vermont’s Killington Resort and Okemo Mountain have been, over…

By Brett Yates The Chittenden Select Board will have a new member next year. Joseph Casella announced on Dec. 23 that he would not seek reelection on Town Meeting Day. Casella joined the board in 2021 after running unopposed for a two-year term. He won a second uncontested election in 2023. Town Meeting Day is…

By Curt Peterson Industrial Tower & Wireless (ITW) of Massachusetts has plans to erect a 174-foot steel communications tower on a site on Town Farm Hill Road in Hartland. Obtaining necessary approval for the project is complicated, with opportunities for public and town government input, according to Kevin Reed, whose informed post on the Hartland…

On Thursday, Dec. 11, Rutland Regional Medical Center’s James T. Bowse Health Trust (BHT) committee announced funding for three important projects in the Rutland region. The ARC-Rutland Area, Inc., Come Alive Outside, and the Tapestry Program of Rutland City Public Schools have been awarded funds over the next three years to implement important projects in…

The Killington Turkey Trot presented a check for $15,000 to the Pico Ski Education Foundation. Pictured from left to right: Kasie Munson, Killington Turkey Trot, Dan Cole, VP PSEF, and Missy Karr, president PSEF.

By Karen D. Lorentz Friday, Dec. 20, was Town Clerk and Treasurer Lucrecia Wonsor's final day on the job after working 24 years for the town of Killington. Peggy Neisner, CMC, who stepped into the role of assistant town clerk in November 2021 was appointed the new town clerk by the Select Board on Dec.…

A celebration of life will be held for Nessie Bale at the Clear River Tavern in Pittsfield on Saturday, Jan. 4, from 2-5 p.m. Agnes “Nessie” Bale, a longtime resident of Ossining, New York, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 22, at her home surrounded by her loving family.  Nessie was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on…

By James Kent On its website, the newly renovated Grey Bonnet Inn boasts an array of amenities: a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner, an on-site bar, a game room, a seasonal outdoor pool, premium rooms, and executive suites. With Killington and Pico buzzing with winter activity, one might expect the Grey Bonnet’s return to include…

 The West Rutland community recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Marble Village Apartments, a transformative project co-developed by The Housing Trust of Rutland County and Evernorth. This initiative aims to provide 24 energy-efficient, permanently affordable homes for low- and moderate-income households. The redevelopment project involves remediating three vacant properties into a three-story building featuring outdoor community…

RUTLAND—The Chaffee Art Center invites amateur and professional photographers of all ages to participate in its annual photo contest, “Faces in Harmony.” Entrants must submit photos at the Chaffee Art Center during drop-off hours: Jan. 17, noon-4 p.m., and Jan. 18, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  This year, a professional category will be introduced alongside existing categories…

PITTSFORD — The Rutland County Humane Society (RCHS) is moving forward with plans for its new “Home for Hope,” announcing a purchase and sale agreement for a historic building at 18 Jones Drive in Brandon. The 15,000-square-foot structure, built in 1923 and part of the former Brandon Training School complex, is listed on the National…

Pico Area Association’s Outstanding  Community Member of the Year On Thursday, Dec. 5, Brett Harris received the honor of Killington Pico Area Association’s (KPAA) Outstanding Community Member of the Year. Whether attending fundraisers, cheering on the Steelers at Jax’s, or spreading smiles at local events, KPAA recognized Harris’ inspiring dedication. Harris’s passion was even the…

By James Kent There is exciting news in the culinary world. The Rutland area has two new eating destinations with Latin-inspired flavors that will expand palates and stuff tummies with delicious treats from regions such as Peru, Venezuela, and Argentina.  Pao Pao is a Peruvian restaurant that opened on Dec. 6 at 124 Woodstock Ave.…

It’s time to go light-peeping! The Light Up Rutland County winter lights and decorating contest is in full swing, with nine competing households, two non-competing households, and a local business decorator all ready for visitors to come see their lights. Videos and slideshows for school decorators will be posted on Social Tinkering’s website after Dec.…

Dec. 21 through 22 from 9 a.m to 6 p.m.—CHESTER—The Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (OVRCC), in collaboration with Vermont Rail System, is launching the Okemo Valley Holiday Express, a new festive holiday train experience for families and visitors. Running on Dec 21 and 22, the excursion train offers a scenic journey through South-Central…