Every year, I wonder why we do Christmas and all the stress and preparation and finances required of it. Then the sun sets before I have worked up the courage to be a member of society, and I remember why: Christmas lights provide light.
Now, with the holidays behind us, we still have several more weeks of darkness to make it through. Fortunately, we live in a place that offers reliable sources of serotonin all around, from the historic charm of Brattleboro as an “organ town,” explored in this issue by staffer Bill LeConey, to maple-flavored lip balm at the corner store, tested by me. Speaking of corner stores, staff writer Bob Audette spoke with Allen Brothers, a local business where Vermonters and visitors get fresh pies and produce year-round.
Though the holidays have passed, another winter event to look forward to is Brattleboro’s Harris Hill Ski Jump, to take place this year Feb. 17 to 19. The adrenaline-filled competition is an annual favorite for locals and tourists alike. In this issue of Vermont Country, our own Shane Covey checks in with local competitor Spencer Knickerbocker.
Skiing is a popular Vermont pastime that uses our natural landscape. But if hurling yourself down a mountain doesn’t appeal to you, Vermont Country’s Tory Rich has compiled a list of other options for exercising while enjoying the outdoors in winter months. And correspondent Makayla-Courtney McGeeney writes of the many opportunities, skiing and otherwise, awaiting at Stratton Mountain.
Some people like the Vermont landscape so much that they make it the backdrop for their wedding. Staff writer Greg Sukiennik explores the wedding business in the region, highlighting some of its most popular venues.
And staffer Gordon Dossett has taken on the intrepid endeavor of exploring the region where he lives, but with the eye and enthusiasm of a tourist. One of his first stops was the American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, where he learned that even “fishing bumbler” like himself could appreciate the experience and atmosphere.
If you prefer to stay inside, film critic Dan Tebo is back with his takes on an array of three-hour films and whether they are worth the watch.
And of course, our resident crime and all-things-spooky junkie Lex Lecce is back with a look at the history of spiritualism in Vermont. Ever hear of Sleeping Lucy? The first known trance medium in spiritualism came from the Green Mountain State.
I hope we can provide some help in seeing the good around us in the dark months that remain.
And if you are struggling, I see you.
Gena Mangiaratti is the arts & entertainment editor of Vermont News & Media and assistant editor of Vermont Country.
