local lowdown your source for upcoming events in the community

Author: [no author name found]

Twist O'Wool Guild

What is your skill level in constructing and decorating drop spindles, making knitted I-cord candy canes and weaving heart ornaments. Up to par? No? Mmm, yeah, that's what we thought. Good thing the American Legion is holding Christmas mini-workshops on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. at their location on Boardman Street. Remedy your lack of holiday craft saviness, and drop off some hats, mittens and scarfs for the American Legion Children's Christmas Party while you're there.

Otter Creek Brewing Art Opening

Local cheese. Snazzy art. Free beer. Any objections? Head on over to Otter Creek Brewing on Exchange Street on Dec. 7 from 5-6 p.m. for an art opening featuring artist Karrie Root. In case Vermont Smoke and Cure sausage and pepperoni isn't enough to lure you, snag Rural Vermont's latest cookbook along the way, featuring local ingredients and benefitting a non-profit organization dedicated to healthy communities. For more information, call 388-0727.

Lights of Love Lighting

Don't let your precious pooch or favorite feline be neglected in the midst of all of this holiday cheer - the token dog bone wrapped in a ribbon simply will not do. On Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m., the Addison County Human Society will hold an open house and ceremony to honor family pets. The requisite hot chocolate, snacks, bonfire and, yes, Christmas carols will all be provided (and your pet goldfish will stop pouting glumly at you through the glass of its dusty bowl - well, maybe). For more information, call 388-1100.

Night Fires in Bristol

Celebrate the winter solstice in a modern incarnation with roots in ancient traditions. On Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Holley Hall in Bristol will hold its "Night Fires" event, comprised by an opera interspersed with poetry, dance and, organizers claim, "color, image and spirit." Get there early to pay admission and enjoy the pre-show singers. For more information, call 863-1024 or send an e-mail to soverby@sover.net.

"Love, Sex and the IRS" ...

... a blend only feasible, it would seem, within the bounds of the Vergennes Opera House. See if the show - which details the misadventures of a scheming man so intent on saving money on taxes that he poses as another man's wife - is as intriguing as its title suggests. Showings are at 8 p.m. on Dec. 13-15. Tickets, which are $10 for students, may be purchased online at www.flynntix.org or by calling 802-863-5966.