Monthly Archives: July 2014

An Unexpected Adventure in Rutland

A visit to Rutland does not usually form part of a typical student’s summer itinerary. “Rutvegas” is not your average New England town, home to a main street featuring more chain restaurants and strip malls than county stores and creemee stands. However, what Rutland lacks in postcard appeal, it more than makes up for with character and quirkiness, a fact that I was made aware of this past weekend. 

Heading back to Middlebury after spending the Fourth of July weekend with my cousins in Manchester, my aunt and I decided to break up the ride home with a quick lunch stop. Uninspired by our immediate choices – Panera, Olive Garden or Pizza Hut – we decided to take a quick detour into Rutland’s historic downtown section. We passed by an inviting lunch spot advertising fresh smoothies and decided to embrace our inner sense of adventure and give it a shot.

It did not take us long to realize that something about the Yellow Deli was slightly different. Stepping inside the front door, we were greeted by a friendly young lady who led us to a small booth. As she took our order, I noticed her long plaid dress, one that would certainly stand out just about anywhere, let alone in the heart of Rutland. Looking up and into the back of the kitchen, it seemed that all those who were working inside the restaurant were dressed in a similar manner. Scanning the numerous pieces of art decorating the cafe walls, it would appear that many had an unusual religious undertone. As I rifled though one of the several brochures found on each table, I found an explanation – the Yellow Deli is run by the Twelve Tribes, a self-described “spiritual brotherhood.” While the global community measures in at around 2000 members, the portion of the “Tribe” living within Rutland is approximately 50. All those living within the community share their wages, working and living as a single unit. Our waitress described how all children raised within the community have been homeschooled using a unique curriculum, while traditional healers treat patients with a combination of herbal remedies and “folk medicine.” All produce – including what is served inside the deli – is grown locally, with community members even raising their own livestock.

If you happen to be passing through Rutland, I urge you to check this spot out. The food is fresh, home-made and delicious, while the quiet, welcoming atmosphere found within the restaurant itself will make you want to linger. Go with an open mind, ready to experience both a people and a way of life so contrasting to the ones you have grown accustomed to. You will leave the Yellow Deli with a full belly, a new perspective and perhaps most importantly, a great story to share with others – perfect ingredients for a great afternoon adventure.
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The Great Outdoors

One of the best things about Middlebury, particularly in the summer, is the plethora of outdoor activities within reasonable distance.  The weather here has been beautiful lately, and all of us have been taking every opportunity to check out the surrounding mountains, swimming holes, waterfalls, and hikes.

The first glimpse of the Mt. Marcy summit.

The first glimpse from the Mt. Marcy summit.

On Saturday, Zak and I, along with some various summer student employees (who are doing awesome research and other on-campus summer activities), made the 2 hour drive to Keene, New York, to climb Mount Marcy.  Mount Marcy is actually the highest Adirondack mountain, with an elevation of 5,343 feet.  The climb itself was a 15-mile roundtrip hike…not too intense of a climb but definitely grueling for a day-hike.  After fueling ourselves with a breakfast of banana-walnut pancakes, the group of us climbed for the morning hours, reaching the summit around 2 pm.  The views from the top were breathtaking.  I can’t say I’m too good with maps and directions, but the other students pointed out Canada, Lake Placid, and some of the famous “high peak” mountains within the region.  The feeling of reaching the top of a mountain is always overwhelmingly incredible, and we all soaked in the scenery for a good hour.  The climb down was more brutal – stepping down steep rocks is rough on the knees!  However, we finally reached our van at around 7:15 pm, exhausted but elated from our adventure.

Gorgeous, panoramic views!

Gorgeous, panoramic views!

When I came to Middlebury as an incoming freshman, I wasn’t really the “outdoorsy” type.  Yet after a few years at Midd, I’ve come to love the nature that surrounds our campus.  Of course, the summer has provided warm sun and plentiful greenery, but all four seasons offer unique expeditions and adventures.  The Middlebury Mountain club, Midd’s largest student organization, is a great way to become involved in outdoor exploration here.  They organize group hikes, overnight hikes, and other activities such as canoeing and snowshoeing.  Check out their website here.  Students are constantly organizing other events on their own, whether that means ice climbing in the winter or finding the best fall foliage in October.  I like to tell my tours that “if you aren’t outdoorsy when you get here, prepare to become outdoorsy asap!” It’s a bit of an exaggeration, but ultimately true.  How can you not fall in love with the great outdoors when you’re surrounded by the Green Mountains, Adirondacks, Lake Champlain, and countless other hidden gems of mother nature?

Zak and I, your adventuresome interns!

Zak and I, your adventuresome interns!