Irene – Act II
I find it actually quite ironic, that when I initially pondered the concept of writing a blog I wondered what in the world I would ever find to write about. Well, that turned out not to be such a problem. At this point in time it has been two whole weeks since the flood of 2011. Two weeks ago I was entering the chaotic world of emergency response volunteerism, and honestly, it felt so good to be so caught up in assisting the massive town effort, that reflection on a personal level was impossible. Then things kind of slowed down and it became impossible to suppress those emotions any longer. At this point everything is kind of a jumble of sadness for those who lost so much, gratitude for our good fortune, uncertainty regarding the future, and incredible pride in and optimism about the astounding strides that have already been made in resurrecting our beautiful state. On Saturday I was able to leave Killington for the first time, hiking through the woods to circumvent the section of Route 4 towards Rutland that suffered such terrible devastation, and on Sunday I was able to drive through the worst hit parts of Route 4 to the east. I can’t even begin to describe the progress that has been made on Route 4 on either side of Killington-by week’s end both will be re-opened, albeit gravel based in some sections until paving takes place in the near future (this photo, courtesy of Sheriff Bernard’s Facebook post, shows the amazing reconstruction efforts on Route 4, which was completely gone two weeks ago). Route 100 north and south are also open, with lots of construction underway. For those of us whose livelihood is dependent upon access into our wonderful town, this is such good news. The trees are just starting to turn color, and the weather is beautiful-welcome to foliage season in Vermont and its amazingly resilient people!
Categories: Latest News
Tags: Hurricane Irene, Killington Resort, Vermont Foliage
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Take a Deep Breath Okay, so we were down, but we are definitely not out. Hurricane Irene threw everything but the kitchen sink at us (actually there have been a few of those and other very large items floating around) and the damage is heartbreaking, but I am so proud of our community and those around us for banding together to help each other through this terrible crisis. Manfred and I couldn’t be more grateful that the Snowed Inn was completely spared, and that we had our power restored relatively quickly, so we have been able to provide assistance to those who haven’t been so fortunate. Our town office staff has been working round the clock to coordinate disaster assistance with state and federal officials, and local contractors have worked tirelessly to restore (very) limited access in and out of town. As one citizen said, we don’t have to get back on our feet- we are already back on our feet and will be back stronger than ever in record time. Killington Resort has some minimal issues to correct and has stated categorically that the mountain will be ready to welcome the first signs of winter and the skiers and boarders who flock here for those first turns of the season. It is my hope that access to town will be restored quickly enough to welcome fall leaf peepers as well. We are extremely grateful to all of those Snowed Inn regulars who have contacted us with words of concern and offers of assistance. We look forward to expressing our gratitude in person very soon!
Categories: Latest News
Tags: Hurricane Irene, Killington Resort
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An Inside View to Living in a Tourism-Driven Town As a serial civic volunteer, I recently completed my three year term as a member of the fledgling Killington Economic Development and Tourism Commission. Calling it a tumultuous three years would be more than accurate, as small towns, especially resort towns grapple with a struggling economy, rising taxes, shifting tourism trends, etc. In spite of frequent controversy we, in conjunction with Killington Resort and the Killington Chamber of Commerce, were able to get things moving, as our rejuvenated summer calendar has shown. As we enter the final stages of summer (egad, so soon?) the fruits of the commission’s labor with, of course the fantastic director, Seth Webb and staff at the helm, have been and continue to be extremely gratifying. The second year of the resurrected Killington Stage Race was a terrific summer opener. Well over 600 racers participated, up 100 riders from last year. The women’s field was particularly robust. The weather held, as rain circled the area, but never dampened the race courses. Our race guests here at the inn pronounced the event a resounding success and are looking forward to next year already. The Killington Wine Festival just celebrated its 10th Anniversary with a three day event from July 22 thru July 24. How can you go wrong, with an Estate Tasting, Grand Tasting, Bubbly Brunch, Wine and Nine (a golf course treat) and special wine dinners throughout the area’s restaurants? Additionally in July we saw the return of the AJGA Golf Tournament, a nationally recognized tournament series for nearly 150 high ranking junior golfers, which took place July 10-14. What a great group of families to welcome to town. In early August nearly 2000 extreme athletes came to town Killington’s Spartan Race and this past weekend the emphasis shifted to more lighthearted fun when the famed Cirkus Smirkus came to town. Attendance at our free Saturday afternoon Cooler in the Mountain concert series is climbing to new heights every weekend with a few more fantastic concerts to go. And this is just a portion of the components of the Killington summer/fall events roster! So, did I mention “serial” volunteerism already? Well, glutton for punishment that I am, or as I prefer to see it, passionate Killington resident that I am, I find myself once again in a seat on the Killington Economic Development and Tourism Commission. My enthusiasm for the potential of this great town once again overrides my disdain for sometimes testy political catfights. After all, someone has to stick their neck out for the greater good.
Categories: Discover Vermont
Tags: Vermont
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