Seven Days, January 29, 2025 by Seven Days

WEEK IN REVIEW

JANUARY 22-29, 2025

‘BETRAYAL’

President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend admissions of refugees into the U.S. will have a devastating impact on Afghans in Vermont, many of whom risked their lives to aid American forces and have been waiting for more than three years to be reunited with their families. at is the assessment of the Vermont Afghan Alliance, which last week called Trump’s executive order an “unconscionable betrayal.”

“It shatters a sacred promise to Afghan allies who risked everything to support U.S. military and diplomatic missions,” the Burlington-based nonproﬁt said in a press release.

Tens of thousands of Afghans have resettled in the U.S. since the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. armed forces from their home country in August 2021. An estimated 600 Afghans now live in Vermont. But many others remain in hiding in Afghanistan or in neighboring Pakistan, holding on to hopes of eventually making their way to America.

Trump dramatically reduced admissions during his ﬁrst term and vowed to do the same upon taking ofﬁce a second time. Groups that support Afghan refugees had lobbied for them to be exempt from any pause of resettlement efforts in recognition of their work to support the 20-year U.S. war. But Trump

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SORRY, STOWE

3.8 3.8

That’s the Richter-scale magnitude of an earthquake o the coast of Maine that was felt in parts of Vermont on Monday.

ignored their requests and suspended refugee admissions as of Monday.

e State Department told resettlement agencies the suspension applies even to those who were already vetted and approved to come to the U.S. “All previously scheduled travel of refugees to the United States is being cancelled, and no new travel bookings will be made,” its letter read in part.

Among those impacted are family members of a staffer at the Vermont Afghan Alliance who were in the ﬁnal stages of the resettlement process, said the nonproﬁt’s executive director, Molly Gray.

In a phone call, she called Trump’s order a “family separation policy.”

“It is cruel beyond measure,” she said.

Back stateside, meanwhile, Afghan men who have been separated from their families for years had already been losing hope that the U.S. would ever fulﬁll its promise to reunite them. Some living in Vermont have told immigration attorneys that they are considering returning to their home country, despite the risk of persecution or death from the Taliban, Seven Days previously reported. Repatriation would at least allow them to see their wives and children again.

Read Colin Flanders’ full story at sevendaysvt.com.

Woodstock’s zip code, 05071, had the highest median home value in Vermont in December, at $967,805, Forbes reported. Stowe’s was the second highest.

FRIEND OF FEMA

In a New York Times op-ed, U.S. Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) wrote that FEMA should be ﬁxed, not eliminated, as President Donald Trump proposed. He cited its post-ﬂood work in Vermont.

NOT TARIFFIC

Speaking of Welch, business o cials in northern Vermont shared concerns with the senator about the president’s threatened 25 percent tari on Canadian goods. Worried, eh?

PIPING UP

Okemo Mountain didn’t make its full-size half-pipe this year, and users are petitioning the resort to reconsider. Slam!

TOPFIVE

@JMMontpelier

Bald Eagle spotted foraging at Montpelier! ough the Bald Eagle has been the national emblem of the United States of America since 1782 and a spiritual symbol for Native Americans for far longer than that, it only just became the National Bird of the U.S. in 2024.

DOG RESCUE

Jon Rouelle was hiking toward the summit of Spruce Mountain in Plainﬁeld on January 17 when he noticed that one of his three dogs, Bruin, was missing.

Rouelle and his friend Jamie Sikora split up to look for the 100-pound brown Lab. Jamie headed up to the summit, and John went back down to the parking lot. No Bruin.

Jon and his dogs hike Spruce, a steep 4.3-mile round trip that starts in Plainﬁeld, several times a week. He headed back up, calling his dog’s name. At home, his wife, artist Damariscotta Rouelle, put the word out on Facebook and Front Porch Forum.

With frigid weather in the forecast, concern about Bruin’s plight spread quickly.

April Farnham of Plainﬁeld, who volunteers for a group called Central Vermont Canine Recovery and also hikes Spruce, heard from worried animal lovers. “I had people I didn’t even know saying, ‘Is there anything you can do?’” she said.

Farnham reached out to the Rouelles.

“She said, ‘I know you’re not going to be able to sleep tonight,’” Jon said.

e trio headed up the mountain in the dark and found tracks where Bruin had left the trail. ey followed them to an area of rocky cliffs and caves. But the laid-back Lab was nowhere to be found.

Search parties tried in vain the next day, a Saturday, too. Early Sunday morning,

Farnham, her friend and her dog, Asher, explored the caves again. is time, “I hollered and hollered, and all of a sudden I heard a whimper,” Farnham said. “I go, ‘Bruin?’ and he goes, ‘Woof!’”

Bruin was marooned on a steep pinnacle, seemingly afraid to move. Farnham, 58, a hairdresser, weight lifter and personal trainer, carried him down.

Recounting these events in their kitchen a week later, the Rouelles described Bruin’s return as a miracle — and said they’ve since purchased GPS collars. Bruin, who lost three pounds in two days, snoozed on the couch.

“I feel so blessed and thankful for all the people who helped,” Damariscotta said. ANNE WALLACE ALLEN

COMPILED BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN & MATTHEW ROY

e Rouelles with Bruin (right)

GO, CATS, GO!

Paula Routly

Cathy Resmer

Don Eggert, Colby Roberts

NEWS & POLITICS

Matthew Roy

Sasha Goldstein

Ken Ellingwood, Candace Page

Hannah Bassett, Derek Brouwer, Colin Flanders, Rachel Hellman, Courtney Lamdin, Kevin McCallum, Alison Novak, Anne Wallace Allen

ARTS & CULTURE

Dan Bolles, Carolyn Fox

Chelsea Edgar, Margot Harrison, Pamela Polston

Jen Rose Smith

Alice Dodge

Chris Farnsworth

Rebecca Driscoll

Jordan Barry, Hannah Feuer, Mary Ann Lickteig, Melissa Pasanen, Ken Picard

‘WELL WORTH A ROAD TRIP’

Alice Dodge, Angela Simpson

Katherine Isaacs, Martie Majoros DIGITAL & VIDEO

Bryan Parmelee

Eva Sollberger

James Buck

Je Baron DESIGN

Don Eggert

Rev. Diane Sullivan

John James

POP THE QUESTION on the cover of Seven Days!

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Why not declare your love for all the world — or at least Vermont — to see? On February 12, Seven Days will publish a real marriage proposal from a reader on the cover of our Love & Marriage issue.

To be considered, go to sevendaysvt.com/proposal by Tuesday, February 4, and tell us a little bit about you and your special someone.

The winning entrant will have their proposal on the cover, a great engagement story to tell, and, with any luck, a lifetime of love and happiness.

Disclaimer: Seven Days is not responsible for unsuccessful marriage proposals, unsuccessful marriages, or readers’ love and/or happiness.

Je Baron SALES & MARKETING

Colby Roberts

Robyn Birgisson

Michelle Brown, Logan Pintka, Kaitlin Montgomery

Carolann Whitesell ADMINISTRATION

Marcy Stabile

Matt Weiner

Andy Watts

Gillian English

Madison Storm CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jordan Adams, Justin Boland, Alex Brown, Erik Esckilsen, Steve Goldstein, Amy Lilly, Bryan Parmelee, Suzanne Podhaizer, Samantha Randlett, Jim Schley, Dayton Shafer, Carolyn Shapiro, Xenia Turner, Casey Ryan Vock CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Luke Awtry, Daria Bishop, James Buck, Bear Cieri, Tim Newcomb, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur, Don Whipple FOUNDERS

Pamela Polston, Paula Routly CIRCULATION: 35,000

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In “Barre Locals Oppose Purchase of Vacant Downtown Building” [January 10, online], the author used a limiting and dismissive description when she referred to AR Market as a “pricey” specialty grocery store and deli. In addition to being an Italian grocery on par with one you would ﬁ nd in Montréal or New York City, AR Market and Pearl Street Pizza next door are delicious destinations well worth a road trip. You can pick up some Vermont Salumi products when you go. Downtown Barre is full of hardworking business owners who persevere in the face of challenge after challenge. Please join me in supporting them to the fullest!

Reed Curry BARRE

‘UPSETTING’ COMIC

When I got to the “Fun Stu ” page in the January 15 edition of Seven Days, I was confused as to why you decided to print the Harry Bliss panel on page 81? I’m also at a loss to explain to myself why Bliss wanted to draw such a panel?

Maybe it’s because I’m 78 years old, but I don’t think it’s funny. In fact, I think it’s just the opposite: It’s upsetting and makes me question my Super Reader commitment to the paper.

If you or Bliss can explain the thought process behind this image, please tell me what it is.

Robert Fuller LINCOLN

SHANNON DESERVES BETTER

I just ﬁnished reading Jason Van Driesche’s letter to the editor scolding Seven Days’ coverage of Joan Shannon’s decision not to run again [Feedback: “More to the Shannon Story,” January 15; “Joan Shannon to Retire From Burlington City Council,” January 2, online]. Here’s what I’d like to see in Seven Days: a retrospective of Joan’s service on city council for over 20 years.

You may not have agreed with all of her positions — I didn’t — but I dare say she was right more than she was wrong. She often stood alone in those positions, sometimes at great personal cost, even having her personal safety threatened and people wearing derogatory shirts with her name on them. One example

is the cuts to our police department, for which we are still paying the price. Not many people would have the sheer stamina to do what Joan did. How many late nights she spent attending city council meetings instead of spending time with her then-young daughter and husband. Joan deserves our thanks. I am deeply grateful for her service.

Carolyn Hanson BURLINGTON

JUST A ‘GIMMICK’

Treasurer Mike Pieciak’s proposal to purchase and cancel medical debt has all of the trappings of a populist political gimmick [“State Treasurer Pieciak Proposes Medical Debt Relief Program,” January 21, online]. It sounds good, but it is a spectacularly bad idea. As someone with decades of experience in the distressed consumer debt industry, I can tell you that purchasing old uncollected medical debt is cheap because it isn’t worth anything, except to the medical establishment looking for a fool willing to throw good money after bad. The proposal is as popular with hospitals as if someone offered to pay me to dispose of my household trash. While the gimmick was entertaining when John Oliver did the same thing on his TV show in 2016, he was playing with his own money. There are far better uses for Vermont’s limited resources than a plan to pay the medical industry good money for bad debt.

Alan Bjerke BURLINGTON

GEORGE HAS TO GO

Not a surprise to learn that Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George was the instigator behind the mayor’s insistence that Burlington Police Chief Jon Murad clear all future press releases with her [“Prosecutor Pushed Burlington Mayor to Rein in Chief’s Comments,” January 15, online]. Of course, George will have ordered Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak to have them vetted by her first. George has no interest in the public learning that there are wellestablished legal remedies that she could utilize to put these recidivists in prison for long terms. George abhors accountability, public order and incarceration. Until the citizens of Chittenden County vote her out of office, Burlington will continue its steady slide into chaos and depravity.

Crocker Bennett HINESBURG

ROAD WORRIER

[Re Feedback: “Close Call on Shelburne Road,” January 8; Feedback, December 25, 2024; “Two Pedestrians Critically Injured in Shelburne Road Crash,” December 12, 2024; “Crash Course,” November 27, 2024]: I’m writing in response to your coverage of recent accidents on Shelburne Road and subsequent letters to the editor because, midmorning on Martin Luther King Day, I got hit by a car. I was running on the sidewalk. No headphones. The driver pulled out without looking both ways and, before I could think to stop, the car contacted my left side. I held myself up and moved out

of the way, turned to see an angry man, then yelled and kept running because I was shocked but not hurt. Several miles later, I watched a Jeep blow through a red light.

I’ve long been worried about getting hit by a car in Burlington because I usually commute by bike and I run, bike and/or walk outside daily. I see many alarming behaviors on the streets. Cars speed through stop signs and turn without signals. When they pass within mere feet as I’m biking on the road — even in a bike lane — it feels like a gamble with my life. I had a close call on Pine Street when I crossed the road after the new bike path abruptly ended (!). As I proceeded north in the bike lane, a left-turning bus almost clobbered me.

I’m not perfect on foot, bike or at the wheel. This is a reminder to be more careful; I hope those reading will do the same. Also, beyond individual actions, let’s get our act together and build a more bikeand pedestrian-friendly city and state. We all deserve safety!

Kathryn Buchan BURLINGTON

CORRECTIONS

The story headlined “Pop to It,” published last week, did not fully describe the breadth of farming activities on Lapierre Farm. The Lapierres also raise hay that sells across New England and New York and grow some sweet corn.

Last week’s story “From Barre to Broadway and Back: Students Stage Hadestown: Teen Edition ” underreported the number of student groups and youth organizations that have licensed the musical. It’s in the hundreds.

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affection. gratitude. admiration.

This Valentine’s Day, express your love — or whatever’s in your heart — to someone special in the pages of this ﬁne newspaper.

Surprise your partner, pal, parent or pet with a personalized and public Valentine’s post printed in Seven Days on February 12. All messages from simple props to marriage proposals are encouraged.

Order your Cardy-o-grams ($14/message) by noon on Friday, February 7, at: sevendaysvt.com/heart

MAGNIFICENT

MUST SEE, MUST DO THIS WEEK COMPILED BY REBECCA DRISCOLL

SATURDAY 1

Flake News

Putney’s Sandglass eater kicks off its 18th annual Winter Sunshine Series with e Snowﬂake Man

Local entertainer Sarah Frechette of Puppetkabob spellbinds viewers with Czech-style marionettes in a performance inspired by Wilson “Snowﬂake” Bentley — the self-educated Vermonter who attracted global attention in the 1920s with his groundbreaking snow crystal photomicrography.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 59

SATURDAY 1

TALES FROM TELLURIDE

Telluride, Colo., traveling film festival Mountainfilm on Tour arrives at Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester with its curated selection of action-packed, culturally rich documentary shorts. e flicks explore environmental, political and social justice issues, while simultaneously celebrating the indomitable spirit of world-class athletes.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 61

FRIDAY 31

You Had Me at Cello Lane Series programming returns this month with fearless pianist Michelle Cann and commanding Cuban American cellist Tommy Mesa. e virtuosic pair assumes the spotlight at the University of Vermont Recital Hall in Burlington for an arresting showcase of their musical gifts. e resulting sound? Exquisite modern chamber music peppered with charisma and innovation.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 60

FRIDAY 31-SUNDAY 2

Ice, Ice Baby

Skiers, riders, music enthusiasts and dog lovers accumulate at Killington Resort for the eagerly awaited Subaru WinterFest — a frosty, fun-ﬁlled party for mountain adventurers. Activities run the gamut from a guided uphill tour to live bluegrass performances, as well as tasty treats, gear demos and a special appearance by the Avalanche Rescue Dogs.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 60

SATURDAY 1 & SUNDAY 2

Knight Life

Hear ye, hear ye! Vermont Gatherings’ eighth annual Winter Renaissance Faire at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction delivers nextlevel medieval merriment. Fair maidens and noble knights of all ages revel in sundry performances, including singing, dancing, reenactments and ﬁght demonstrations, and browse more than 85 artisan and craft vendors’ authentic wares.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 61

WEDNESDAY 5

Wise Words

Farmers Night — a Statehouse tradition harking back more than 100 years — presents Vermont Reads author Kenneth M. Cadow under Montpelier’s golden dome. e lauded local educator reads excerpts from his 2023 young adult novel, Gather — a National Book Award Finalist — and discusses topical rural themes such as addiction, food and housing insecurity, and the power of community.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 63

ONGOING

Eye of the Bee-holder

Levon Biss macrophotography exhibition, “Extinct and Endangered: Insects in Peril,” at the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury highlights the insidious yet sharp decline of countless species. e detailed photographs feature specimens from the American Museum of Natural History’s collection and highlight both their teeny intricacies and their huge importance to our ecosystem.

SEE GALLERY LISTING AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/ART

SEVEN DAYS JANUARY 29-FEBRUARY 5, 2025

All Write

Filling this newspaper with original, accurate, well-reported, readable stories is a weekly scramble. It doesn’t allow much time for writing school — that is, sitting down together to study our craft. Generally speaking, looking back at what we’ve written is a luxury we can’t afford.

Yet almost every member of our editorial team shows up for the “Lunch and Learn” sessions we’ve offered since July 2022. The idea is to gather every few months for a discussion about various aspects of writing and reporting, removed from the deadline pressure of newspaper production.

The editing we do each week is instructive but also rushed; reporters have to glean their own lessons. On top of putting out a good issue, our writers and editors share another common goal: to learn from each other and, hopefully, become better journalists.

Seven Days consulting editors Ken Ellingwood and Candace Page teamed up to design the trainings. Both are hands-on editors at the paper — they have worked with most of the writers — but, as freelance contractors, they enjoy more flexibility than our staffers. In other words, they can say no to certain projects.

Luckily, they said yes to translating their combined 75-plus years of journalism experience into a series of classes that started outdoors at Burlington restaurant the Spot on the Dock. The first topic was “Seeing Stories” — recognizing different types of narratives and establishing a common vocabulary to describe them. At the time, more than two years into the pandemic, just seeing each other was a treat.

Ken Ellingwood leading a “Lunch and Learn” session with Seven Days reporters and editors

Summing up the lesson later, in a quote-worthy email, Ken said: “We quote to reflect the voices, points of view and experiences of people we talk to — and when we couldn’t say it better ourselves.”

Our new visual art editor, Alice Dodge, has only been to a couple of these sessions, “but I have found them to be really helpful, especially since I never trained as a journalist,” she wrote in an email. “Ken and Candy are very focused on clarity and on keeping the stories fun to read.”

OUR WRITERS AND EDITORS SHARE A COMMON GOAL: TO LEARN FROM EACH OTHER AND, HOPEFULLY, BECOME BETTER JOURNALISTS.

The Lunch and Learns have since moved inside our office and covered story structure, interviewing techniques, how to write more effective beginnings and endings, and the importance of the nut graf — aka “the so-what paragraph.”

Last Thursday, our first session of the year was about how to effectively use quotations from sources. Most inexperienced writers tend to overdo them, which can be a drag to the reader; rookie reporters often feel obligated to include some words from everyone who took the time to talk with them. Other common pitfalls include long, explanatory quotes that would be better paraphrased; preempting quotes with summary sentences; and too often relying on a quotation to wrap up a story.

Over takeout from American Flatbread, our resident word nerds chewed over methods for recording interviews, distilling rambling quotes to their essence and capturing colorful scenes with choice snippets of dialogue. At Ken’s prompting, we also looked back at some of our own stories and critiqued the quotations. Hindsight is always 20/20.

“Readers’ attention is finite,” deputy publisher Cathy Resmer added. “We have to convince them that our work is worth their time.”

And finally, from food writer Melissa Pasanen: “We are lucky to have two such seasoned journalists and editors to work with on this series — and in general. It feels like an investment at many levels: in us individually, in Seven Days as an organization and in journalism.”

No, indeed: I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Paula Routly

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SHOOTING SUSPECT IN COURT

FLOODING HURTS DRINKING WATER

GOV PITCHES $9 BILLION BUDGET

EDUCATION

Newport Newcomers

Faced with a teacher shortage, a Northeast Kingdom school hired three Filipina educators

BY ALISON NOVAK • alison@sevendaysvt.com

For years, North Country Union High School principal Chris Young regularly received teaching applications from overseas. He never seriously considered them, believing too many cultural barriers and logistical challenges would result.

But this school year, driven by a persistent teacher shortage in his rural district, Young decided to take a chance on three applicants from the Philippines. Their country has a surplus of trained teachers who are eager to work in America, where they can earn much higher salaries.

The women — science teachers Nina Tangcalagan and Daryl Paderogo and math teacher Jhocel Yabo — arrived in Newport in August. Five months in, school administrators and the Filipina teachers say the arrangement is working well.

Tangcalagan, Paderogo and Yabo all have experience in the classroom and a

strong command of their subject areas, Young said. “What’s exciting,” he added, “is how they’re building relationships with students” by teaching them about life in the Philippines while also learning about American culture.

WHAT’S EXCITING IS HOW THEY’RE BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH STUDENTS. CHRIS YOUNG

For Tangcalagan, teaching at North Country is the culmination of a longstanding dream to come to the U.S. to work and save money, she said.

Lynn Cota, superintendent of Franklin Northeast Supervisory Union,

Delegation Blasts Trump’s Federal Funding Freeze

BY RACHEL HELLMAN rhellman@sevendaysvt.com

Vermont’s congressional delegation on Tuesday warned of a “dangerous move towards authoritarianism” after President Donald Trump’s administration ordered a wide-ranging freeze on federal grants and loans.

e move, which was expected to go into effect at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, “will cause devastating harm to working families across Vermont,” a statement from U.S. Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and U.S. Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.) said.

But shortly before the freeze could take effect, a federal judge blocked it. e judge’s order expires on Monday, February 3.

e Vermont delegation’s statement described the proposed pause as an “unconstitutional action” and said it would affect hundreds of thousands of Vermonters, including 1,200 kids in Head Start programs; tens of thousands of women, children and seniors who rely on food assistance, including Meals on Wheels; and 9,000 Vermonters who use Section 8 vouchers for housing.

“No president has the right to choose which laws to follow and which laws to ignore,” the statement said.

has also hired three teachers from the Philippines in the past two years. She called it “a new recruitment strategy” for rural school districts like hers, which are hearing from fewer and fewer qualified applicants.

Hiring troubles are no surprise. Baby boomer teachers are retiring, while fewer young people are entering the ﬁeld. Nationally, enrollment in teacher preparation programs declined 45 percent between the 2010-11 and 2020-21 school years, according to the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education. Enrollment has bounced back a little since then, but not enough to ﬁll the gaps.

To address hiring di culties, Vermont schools are increasingly asking the Agency of Education to sign off on one-year emergency and two-year provisional teaching licenses that can be granted to

A memo about the freeze, issued by the Ofﬁce of Management and Budget, said “the use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve.”

On Tuesday afternoon, Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark and other top prosecutors in Democratic states ﬁled a lawsuit against the order.

“We have been working for months in dread, preparing for a potential Trump presidency,” Clark told Seven Days. “We were ready for this, and, sadly, we’ll be ready for the next violation of the constitution or federal law.”

e sweeping order created immediate confusion for Vermont nonproﬁts, universities and other programs that receive federal funding.

Among them was Vermont Works for Women, a nonproﬁt that aims to advance gender equity. e org announced that it had paused the federally funded expansion of its Trailblazers program, which provides training in the trades for “women and gender-expansive individuals.” ➆

Daryl Paderogo

Reining Cats and Dogs

Roaming Burlington at will, cats fight, poop and kill songbirds. Councilors are considering a leash law.

BY COURTNEY LAMDIN • courtney@sevendaysvt.com

BURLINGTON

With all the talk of drugs, mental health issues and homelessness in Burlington, it’s little wonder that another scourge has largely gone unchecked: free-roaming felines.

Cats are pooping in gardens, killing songbirds and yowling so loudly that they rouse people from sleep. Photos of lost and found kitties abound on Front Porch Forum.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the crackdown on cats originated with their mortal enemies, dogs. In 2021, a spike in complaints about barking and bites led the council to create a Dog Task Force to improve caninehuman relations. The group was also asked whether cats should be licensed.

Not only did the task force think that was a good idea, but its members also recommended far stricter controls.

MARY MCGINNISS

Faced with the dubious task of herding cats, a city council committee is considering an ordinance that would require the pets to be collared and leashed when outdoors, just like their canine counterparts. Failure to follow the rules could land cats in the clink — and get their owners fined.

It’s unclear whether or when the rules might be adopted. But the councilors vetting the idea are taking it seriously.

“Cats are an issue,” Councilor Joan Shannon (D-South District) said at a meeting to discuss the proposal last week. “It’s not like we’re looking at this in lieu of other concerns in the city. We intend to do both.”

Besides the collar-and-leash rule, its proposal would ban free-roaming cats from anywhere but their owner’s property or a friend’s. The city would be empowered to impound at-large cats and even kill them if they are deemed “an imminent public safety risk.” Just how a cat would obtain such a status has not been spelled out. Scofflaw owners would be fined up to $250, and the penalty would increase for repeat offenders.

Expecting controversy, the council’s Ordinance Committee called a meeting last week to hear from residents. Their hackles up, cat lovers blasted out emails encouraging allies to defend their furry friends. One city councilor said a constituent had planned to bring his two cats to testify against the proposal. Alas, only people attended, about 60 total at city hall and on Zoom.

Task force member Lori Kettler tried to quell any outrage from the outset, saying this “pro-cat ordinance” was

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those who do not have all the qualifications required to teach in their subject area. The number of such licenses rose from 433 in 2017 to 795 last year, according to the Vermont Agency of Education.

The teacher recruitment problem can be particularly acute in places like North Country Supervisory Union, a rural district bordering Canada that serves 2,600 students in 12 towns. The district has relied heavily on teachers with emergency and provisional licenses.

The state has rolled out several initiatives to address the problem, including a “Grow Your Own Pathways” apprenticeship program in the Northeast Kingdom, in which candidates complete requirements for a teaching license while working in a school. The state has also expanded its peer review system, an alternative route to licensure in which candidates submit a portfolio that is assessed by a panel of experienced teachers.

But while states including Colorado, Arizona and Texas have hired hundreds of teachers from the Philippines, it’s still a rarely used strategy in Vermont. Vermont Rural Education Collaborative executive director John Castle, who served as superintendent of North Country Supervisory Union from 2014 to 2022, said administrators may be reluctant to hire teachers who lack a connection to Vermont. Another concern is that the teachers will stay for a few years and then leave, which makes it an unsustainable solution.

The fact that some schools are hiring from overseas “is an illustration of how challenging filling positions really is” right now, Castle said.

Once North Country administrators decided to hire abroad, the Filipina teachers took on the challenge of getting to Vermont, Young said. Through a competitive application process, they obtained J-1 visas, which allow foreign educators to teach in the U.S. for three years, with the option of a two-year extension. They found a culturalexchange organization to sponsor them — a requirement for the visa — and paid their own way to Vermont.

Because none of the women has a U.S. driver’s license, they needed to live within walking distance of the high school. Fortuitously, a former teacher in the district agreed to rent them a duplex just around the corner. Other teachers have been generous with rides to Walmart and the grocery store.

Now settled into their classrooms, the women are getting used to life in Vermont. During an interview in Paderogo’s classroom this month, they reflected on

their experience living and teaching in Newport.

Students in the Philippines, Tangcalagan said, “are more obedient.” If they are talking when they not supposed to, for example, all you have to do is stare at them and they’ll be quiet, she said. Vermont teens, on the other hand, “are expressive and outspoken and sometimes they are going to really say what’s on their mind.”

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, Yabo added. She finds she’s able to talk more openly with students here. Many North Country students have jobs after school, which makes them more mature, she said.

Food has helped the women connect with Vermont teens. Yabo had never used an oven before coming to the U.S. because only affluent people in the Philippines have the appliance, she said. When she mentioned that to her class, they were eager to teach her how to bake. In December, a group of students guided Yabo through the process of making cupcakes. Newly emboldened, she’s recently begun using the oven in her apartment.

With ingredients procured at Asian markets in Burlington and New Hampshire, the teachers have introduced popular Filipino dishes to their students, including lumpia, a type of spring roll; pancit, a noodle dish; and barbecue skewers. This kind of exchange also helps the three teachers comply with a requirement of the J-1 visa for sharing their culture with the school community.

Paderogo, a self-described “city girl,” worked for seven years at a private Catholic school in the bustling capital city of Manila. Still, she said the quiet environment of the Northeast Kingdom suits her.

Tangcalagan and Yabo, meanwhile, taught the children of farmers and fishermen in public schools in the rural province of Zamboanga del Norte. Newport doesn’t feel that different, they said, except for the climate. All three women experienced snow for the first time this winter; North Country administrators encouraged them to take their students outside to play in it.

Tangcalagan has also been able to enjoy cold-weather activities with her family. At the end of November, her husband and

ALL THREE WOMEN EXPERIENCED SNOW FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS WINTER.

6-year-old daughter moved to Vermont to live with her. Her daughter, now a first grader at Newport City Elementary School, gets a thrill from playing in the snow during recess, Tangcalagan said. Recently, they went ice skating at a local rink, and her daughter loved it so much that she didn’t want to go home.

Yabo’s two children, ages 4 and 10, are back in the Philippines. She’s planning to visit them in February but, in the meantime, must settle for regular video calls.

Sarah Pickering, the high school’s director of learning design, has supported the newly arrived teachers in adjusting their curriculum, instructional techniques and grading to align with Vermont standards. Pickering described them as

“delightful and caring humans” who are eager to learn and well prepared for class every day. Given North Country’s lack of racial diversity, Pickering said, learning from teachers with a different background is a great opportunity for students.

Tenth grader Danika Phillabaum agrees. Phillabaum said Yabo’s approach to teaching math doesn’t feel that different — except that she initially graded tests for spelling mistakes as well math errors. And Phillabaum said she appreciates the times when Ms. Jhocel, as she’s known to students, shares descriptions of life in the Philippines.

The three women, who are paid on the same salary scale as other North Country teachers, say they hope to stay at the high school for at least three years, but it will be up to the school to decide whether to renew their contracts. There is also some uncertainty about the future of their visas under President Donald Trump .

Young, the North Country principal, said he’d encourage fellow principals to take a closer look at international teachers — if they’re willing to help them find housing and transportation and to support them in the classroom. Teachers from the Philippines are especially compelling candidates, Young said, because they tend to have a lot of teaching experience and are adept at navigating the visa process.

Castle, the Vermont Rural Education Collaborative executive director, said hiring from abroad is a strategy that makes sense in the difficult labor market.

“This is a sign of our times,” he said. “We have to have multiple pathways to ensure we’re filling positions.”

Nina Tangcalagan with student Julian Larsen

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Reining Cats and Dogs

designed to keep felines and wildlife safe. Kettler queued up a video that showed cats picking feathers from their teeth and batting around small animals in the grass. “Cats in the wild are killing machines,” the voice-over said.

“The case has been made,” veterinarian Walter Cottrell, who Zoomed in from Newbury, said when the video had ended. “Cats are genetically compelled, indiscriminate predators.”

The majority of attendees agreed. One woman recounted discovering disembodied bird heads and squirrel carcasses in her yard, allegedly slain by a neighbor’s cat. Another said her neighbor’s cat deposited 64 birds on her porch over the course of a year.

Kristen Cameron, who keeps her cat indoors, said she got so tired of cats defecating in her garden and fighting outside her window that she started trapping the animals and bringing them to a humane society. She’s nabbed 10 so far.

“As it stands now, people get to anonymously torment their neighbors with their outdoor cats,” Cameron said. “We need some recourse.”

Cat sympathizers were not having it. A self-described “live-and-let-live sort of person,” Liz Curry is content to allow her gray-and-white tabby, Dandelion, roam the Old North End, where he charms his way into neighbors’ homes for treats. Curry has asked people on Front Porch Forum not to take him in. She said she can get on board with licensing cats but not with confining them, arguing that statistics painting cats as bird killers are overblown.

Others charged that the Dog Task Force had overstepped its authority by going after cats. One woman pleaded with councilors to “not punish all cats for the faults of a few.”

The discussion was largely civil, with just one interruption from someone asking how the city planned to enforce the new rules. Councilors didn’t answer, saying there would be time to debate the finer points later on. The committee will discuss the matter further before sending it to the full council for review.

Meanwhile, at another meeting held at the very same time via Zoom, a different council committee was reviewing data on drug overdoses, thefts and backlogs in the court system. Mary McGinniss, whose ginger cat, Johnny, pals around with Dandelion in the Old North End, said the council should be focused on those issues instead.

“We have all these huge problems, and here we are trying to arrest pussycats?” she said. “Are you kidding?” ➆

Suspect in Border Patrol Shooting Appears in Court

BY RACHEL HELLMAN rhellman@sevendaysvt.com

A 21-year-old woman from Washington State who authorities say started the shoot-out that killed a U.S. Border Patrol agent made her initial appearance in federal court on Monday.

Teresa Youngblut, who was wounded in the exchange, had her arm in a sling and also wore a mask over her face when she appeared in U.S. District Court in Burlington.

She’s charged with two weapons offenses stemming from a shoot-out on Interstate 91 in northern Vermont.

Agent David “Chris” Maland was killed, as was Felix Bauckholt, a German man driving the car in which Youngblut was a passenger.

Hours before the court hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher submitted a court filing seeking her continued detention, alleging that Youngblut was associated with people suspected of violent acts in other states. Lasher wrote that Youngblut had been in “frequent contact with” an individual who was detained in Pennsylvania in connection with a double homicide and who was also a person of interest in a homicide in Vallejo, Calif.

Youngblut had been traveling with Bauckholt in northern Vermont for several days, but court documents do not say why.

On January 14, an employee of a Lyndonville hotel where they were staying called to report concerns. The caller told police the two were wearing what appeared to be allblack, tactical-style clothing and that Youngblut was wearing a holstered firearm.

On January 20, according to the affidavit, U.S. Border Patrol agents conducted a stop of their vehicle because it appeared Bauckholt — the Prius’ registered owner — had an expired visa.

Prosecutors allege that Youngblut pulled a handgun and fired toward border patrol agents without warning, prompting an exchange of gunfire that left both Bauckholt and agent Maland dead.

The Seattle Times reported that Youngblut’s parents previously had reported her missing to police in Washington. In court on Monday, a middle-aged couple who appeared to be distraught lingered after the court proceedings had concluded. Youngblut made prolonged eye contact with the couple before she was escorted out. ➆

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Something in the Water

Increased flooding creates problems for public drinking water systems around Vermont

BY RACHEL HELLMAN • rhellman@sevendaysvt.com

Brad Cornelius didn’t know what to make of the letter he received at home in late December warning that the levels of “total trihalomethanes” in his water exceeded state standards.

Like other public water systems, South Hero Fire District 4 is required to test its water every three months for the toxic by-products of chemical disinfectants, including trihalomethanes. The results are reported to the Department of Environmental Conservation; if there is a violation of state standards, the water district must let its customers know immediately.

That job often falls to the volunteers who run small water districts and use jargon-heavy templates from the state to let residents know about violations.

“This is not an emergency,” the South Hero district’s letter cautioned Cornelius and 370 other users, before adding that “some people” who drink water containing trihalomethanes over a long period of time “may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous systems,

and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.”

Cornelius, whose two children are 9 and 12, was spooked. He purchased enough bottled water to last his family a few days and took to a town Facebook group to compare notes.

“This is unsettling,” one neighbor posted.

“Ken is doing the best he can,” Cornelius told Seven Days, referring to the fire district’s chair, Ken Little. “But I’m frustrated. We are paying for water that we can’t necessarily safely drink.”

Cornelius and his neighbors are not alone in their confusion and concern. The number of public drinking water systems in Vermont with elevated levels of disinfection by-products has notably increased in recent years. And while the problem is fixable, it requires expertise and expensive equipment that districts run by volunteers can’t always provide.

Scientists link the trend to climate change. Extreme flooding and warmer winters mean more organic matter is

plants,” said Joe Duncan, general manager of the Champlain Water District, the state’s largest, which draws water from Shelburne Bay and distributes it to 83,000 people. “The resources and the technology and the level of operation necessary are just going to get more and more complex.”

Bridget O’Brien, radiological and toxicological analyst for the Vermont Department of Health, said all treated drinking water contains some level of disinfection by-products.

The trouble isn’t dealing with sediment and other visible pollutants, which water systems can filter out. Instead, “This is an interaction at a very small, molecular scale,” said Ben Montross, drinking water program manager at the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

About 400 public water systems statewide test for disinfection by-product, and it’s not only systems that depend on Lake Champlain water that have been affected. The city of Rutland, which draws from Mendon Brook, has had to manage elevated levels for years.

A flood’s effect on water systems is not necessarily immediate, making it difficult to measure. “It’s not as simple as saying there was a storm on this day and it had this quantifiable effect on our drinking water,” Montross said. “This is happening on a watershed scale.”

The number of violations in Vermont has been on the upswing. None were noted in 2022. But the next year, seven violations were logged across six water systems. Preliminary data for 2024 count 25 violations across 12 water systems, according to Montross.

being washed into rivers and lakes. When chlorine is added to ensure drinking water is pathogen-free, it interacts with the organic material in a way that creates toxic chemicals such as trihalomethanes.

CLIMATE CHANGE IS GOING TO CONTINUE TO IMPACT HOW WE OPERATE OUR TREATMENT PLANTS.

JOE DUNCAN

State health officials say most Vermonters have nothing to worry about — the risk comes only from long-term exposure to trihalomethanes. Still, these situations could affect many of the public drinking water systems that serve 60 percent of Vermonters.

“Climate change is going to continue to impact how we operate our treatment

Below a certain threshold, the state considers the by-products to pose no health risk. But when consumed at elevated levels over long periods of time, they can lead to cancer.

“We’re talking about exposure over a number of years,” O’Brien cautioned. “Because we have regulations, those health risks are unlikely.”

Standards are set state by state. Indrajit Kalita, a researcher at Boston University who studies disinfection by-products, said Vermont’s limits are in line with national regulations. However, his research shows that a slightly lower threshold would provide an “added margin of safety” for consumers.

The state advises pregnant women, young children and immunocompromised people to consider switching to bottled water when limits are exceeded, as just happened in South Hero. O’Brien, the health department analyst, said home carbon filters such as Brita have been shown to remove disinfection by-products.

Ken Little

Scott Outlines $9 Billion Budget to Skeptical Vermont Lawmakers

BY KEVIN MCCALLUM • kevin@sevendaysvt.com

Gov. Phil Scott outlined his proposed $9 billion budget on Tuesday, saying it would prevent another increase in property taxes for education. After a 14 percent average statewide increase last year, the governor wants to keep property taxes flat until education reform efforts bear fruit.

Democrats reacted with skepticism about just how the governor plans to achieve that, with some delivering sharp criticism.

To prevent a projected average 5.9 percent increase in property taxes, Scott is proposing to move $77 million in surplus cash from the general fund to the education fund. He also wants to eliminate an $18.5 million program that ensures all 83,500 public school children eat for free, regardless of the income level of their family.

Supporters say the universal meals program ensures all kids are fed so they can focus on their studies. Scott argues that the program benefits families that don’t need it.

“My sense of the Senate is we’re not going to follow him on that,” Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Baruth (D/P-Chittenden-Central) said. “Typically speaking, Democrats do not support lowering property taxes by taking food away from kids.”

That’s just one topic that Scott and lawmakers will likely clash over this session. Scott argued that he and lawmakers should work together to enact major reforms that could not only make dysfunctional systems more affordable but also more effective.

“Taxpayers made it clear they want us to fix broken systems, not just fund them,” Scott said. “So, I will forward four bills that address housing, public safety, education and affordability to improve in each of these areas.”

The state is enjoying unexpectedly strong revenues due to a robust economy. Total revenues were 3.7 percent above forecasts for the year, economists told

lawmakers last week. Corporate and personal income taxes are up, as are vehicle sales.

But Scott warned lawmakers not to assume that the higher revenues mean there is much more to spend.

“Even with a strong economy, balancing this budget wasn’t easy,” he said.

The state needs an additional $133 million next year just to “keep the lights on,” Scott said, meaning little money exists for new programs. “So even with a surplus, we can’t do everything we want,” he said.

He does want to address the housing crisis and would make some one-time programs permanent. He’s proposing to spend $4 million every year on the Vermont Housing Improvement Program. It helps investors rehab substandard homes, which abound in a state with older housing stock.

He also wants to spend $30 million to help fund the construction of homes affordable to middle-income residents, $9 million to help cities and towns build infrastructure needed for housing, and $2 million to help people repair mobile homes.

On a different topic, Scott outlined a host of public safety reforms that he said would make people feel safer.

Switching to climate change, Scott argued that the state’s climate deadlines are “arbitrary” and unachievable. He wants to change the Global Warming Solutions Act to calculate climate emissions differently and to remove the ability for people to sue Vermont if the targets are not met. Instead, he said, he’ll direct the Agency of Natural Resources to come up with a more “practical plan” to reach climate goals by 2050.

Sen. Anne Watson (D/P-Washington), the chair of the Natural Resources and Energy Committee, said she was struck by Scott’s reference to “arbitrary” deadlines. They are, in fact, rooted in widely accepted climate science, she said.

“We’re not going to go backwards on climate,” Watson said. ➆

Gov. Phil Scott leaving the House chamber after delivering his budget address

Sweeping Proposal Would Transform Vermont’s Schools

BY ALISON NOVAK • alison@sevendaysvt.com

Vermont Education Secretary Zoie Saunders last week unveiled a sweeping plan to transform K-12 schools by changing how they are funded and consolidating dozens of districts into just five large regional ones. Saunders laid out the proposal to lawmakers on January 22 during a nearly 50-minute briefing on the House floor. She said Gov. Phil Scott and his administration feel an urgency to create a “bold” plan to rebuild public education after voters rejected a third of school budgets last Town Meeting Day due to steep increases in property taxes. The worst part, she said, is that the lowestspending, highest-needs districts struggled most to get taxpayers to approve their spending plans.

“We are left with a choice,” Saunders said. “We can either hold tight to our current system, which will result in less for our kids while continuing to increase property taxes, or we can change. Vermonters have demanded change.”

The change would take three years.

Vermont would transition to a more straightforward school funding mechanism, known as a foundation formula, at the start of the 2026-27 school year. The state would calculate a base amount needed to pay for a student’s education. Additional money would be allocated for students who cost more to educate, including those living in poverty and English learners. With guidance from consultants, the state is still figuring out what that base amount would be and will release the figures in the coming weeks, Saunders said.

Under the foundation formula, there would be a single statewide property tax rate with a discount for incomeeligible homeowners, according to Tax Commissioner Craig Bolio. School districts could choose to raise additional funds above what is allocated through the foundation formula. But that amount would be capped to avoid large discrepancies in per-pupil spending between districts, Bolio said.

The second part of the plan calls for consolidating Vermont’s 52 supervisory unions and 119 school districts into five regional school districts, starting in the 2027-28 school year. Each district would have one school board.

The proposed districts are the Champlain Valley Region, made up of schools in northwest Vermont; the Winooski Valley Region, in central Vermont; the Southwest Region; the Northeast Region; and the Southeast Region. The Champlain Valley Region would have around 34,000 students, while the other four districts would each have between 10,000 and 15,000 students.

This would allow the state to boost teacher salaries by reducing administrative costs, improve service delivery by operating at scale and increase

educational opportunities for students, Saunders said. In a nod to local control, each school would have an advisory council made up of parents, community members, students and staff that would help to inform school-level decisions.

Under the new governance structure, “schools will be assessed based on financial viability and education quality,” the plan says. “Schools that fall short of these standards will be offered a range of options, including resource sharing or merging, with the support of the [Agency of Education].” The plan doesn’t make clear what criteria would be used to assess schools or whether the state would force some schools to close.

The plan would shift rule-making authority from the State Board of Education to the Agency of Education to “achieve greater efficiency.” It also calls for stronger and more consistent state regulations when it comes to minimum and maximum school and class sizes, graduation requirements, grading, education quality, and spending.

Following the briefing, House Speaker Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington) and Senate President Pro Tem Phil Baruth (D/P-Chittenden-Central) issued a joint statement thanking the governor for bringing forward a plan.

“In the coming weeks, House and Senate committees will be hard at work digging into the Governor’s proposal and hearing from Vermonters, parents, educators, administrators, and students,” the statement reads. “The details matter and we need to get it right. Our kids, our schools, and our communities are counting on us.”

Don Tinney, president of the VermontNEA teachers’ union, had a less favorable reaction, saying the “risky proposal is big on rhetoric but short on the details.

“It doesn’t explain how these changes would be better for students,” Tinney said in a statement. “It doesn’t simplify an overly complex school funding system. And it doesn’t provide immediate and ongoing property tax relief for middle-class Vermonters.” ➆

Something in the Water

Water plant managers can also employ strategies to address higher-than-acceptable levels. One option is to switch from chlorine to monochloramine, a related disinfectant that kills bacteria but results in fewer by-products.

That’s what the Champlain Water District did in 2006. “We’ve been able to keep the process under control through careful adjustments,” Duncan said. However, installing a monochloramine disinfection system is costly.

Another option is to install a carbon filter at a water plant to remove much of the organic matter before the water is treated with chlorine. Like the monochloramine solution, carbon filtration is expensive.

The Grand Isle Consolidated Water District, which serves about 1,600 people, invested in a carbon filter system in 2015 after a number of disinfection by-product violations. For almost a decade, the upgrade worked. But last fall the numbers went up again. Janine Banks, a water district commissioner, blames increased flooding.

The water district board decided to replace the aging carbon filters to see whether that solved the problem. Easier said than done. “It’s not something you can just call and schedule to have happen next week,” Banks said. Changing the filters costs north of $25,000 and requires sending water samples to a lab.

With a staff of more than 40 people, the Champlain Water District hasn’t had a disinfection by-product violation in decades. Duncan is acutely aware that part of the reason is that his team has the workforce and resources to respond quickly when a potential problem arises.

Meanwhile, Little, who is retired, dedicates hours of unpaid work each week to dealing with issues related to the South Hero district’s water treatment. While the

district outsources management to a private company, rapid response and decision making fall to a five-person volunteer board.

“Nobody runs for this position,” Little said with a laugh. “But it’s pretty important.”

It’s a reality that worries experts who foresee a future in which water quality management becomes increasingly complex.

“There’s a real lack of capacity,” said Liz Royer, executive director of the Vermont Rural Water Association. “Small towns and fire districts are struggling to even complete applications for funding that might help them.”

In South Hero, the path forward is not entirely clear. In 2018, the fire district invested more than half a million dollars in system upgrades which included changing the chemical treatment process. Just like Grand Isle’s upgrade, the solution seemed to work until last year.

Last week, Little discussed a permanent solution with Ray Solomon, an environmental scientist at the state Agency of Natural Resources. Solomon offered some possible next steps but warned in an email that “none of these alternatives are simple and all would require professional engineer design.”

For now, Little is monitoring the treatment plant and answering his neighbor’s questions.

Cornelius, meanwhile, has purchased a $700 carbon filtration system for his family’s home. It is supposed to reduce disinfection by-products in drinking water by more than half.

“It’s a lot of money,” he said. “But for peace of mind, I think it’s worth it.” ➆

Rachel Hellman covers Vermont’s small towns for Seven Days . She is a corps member of Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. Find out more at reportforamerica.org.

Zoie Saunders

Keeler Bay by the South Hero water treatment plant

lifelines

OBITUARIES

Antoinette F.

Lewis Taylor

MARCH 21, 1925JANUARY 8, 2025

ESSEX JUNCTION, VT.

Beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother

Antoinette Taylor, 99, lived a long and fulﬁlling life, passing after a brief illness. Toni was

David C. Hamilton

FEBRUARY 1, 1954JANUARY 20, 2025

SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT.

David C. Hamilton of South Burlington, Vt., died unexpectedly on Monday, January 20, 2025, while hiking on Mount Philo, his most sacred of places.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, on February 1, 1954, to Jack

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS

born on the ﬁrst day of spring 1925, at home in Pawtucket, R.I. She was the daughter of Frederick and Addie (Soule) Lewis, descendent of George Soule of the Mayﬂower Antoinette was raised in Pawtucket, spending summers in Jamestown, R.I., in a cottage built by her grandfather, which still stands on the West Ferry side of the island, surviving the “Yankee Clipper” Great New England Hurricane of 1938. She continued to visit Jamestown, a place she cherished, until her early eighties. Toni attended East High School in Pawtucket, class of 1943, serving as vice president of her senior class and voted “Most Popular.” With a passion for people and service, she began her lifelong social habits of participating in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, staying very active in her school community. She was

and Sheila Hamilton and his two-year-old brother Mike, (now far older), David spent most of his childhood in Southington, Conn., where he grew up during the 1960s with music all around. His early love of Southern rock and blues (read: the Allman Brothers) never left him but evolved into his own beautiful guitar composing and ultimately into a passion for Pat Metheny, Aaron Parks, Dead Can Dance, Steely Dan, Miles Davis and so many more. After a stint at Saint Michael’s College in Vermont, David decided to enter the working world. Many old-time Burlingtonians will remember him from the ﬁrst gas station Ben and Jerry’s, Deja Vu, the Daily Planet, the Black Rose in Winooski and Rock Point School, where he evolved from dorm parent to dean of students. While at Rock Point, he went back to school at the University of Vermont and earned a BA in English. He then attended Antioch New

in several clubs; played basketball, tennis and badminton; and was a member of the swim team. She went on to study English at University of Rhode Island, continuing her tradition of involvement by serving as Sigma Kappa chairwoman of social activities. She participated in student government and in many other organizations, including the riﬂe club. Toni was also member of the draft board and participated in the Philanthropic Education Association, which supported women in education. During World War II, she also worked at the Naval Torpedo Factory on Goat Island, R.I.

She met William “Ken” Taylor in 1945 at a social mixer at Brown University. ey wed in 1947 in Pawtucket. Her riﬂe skills came in handy clay shooting with Ken during their honeymoon, outshooting him. ey went on to

England, earning a master’s in psychology; there was an academic in there, after all.

David was always drawn to the natural world, especially birds. His homes and dreams were filled with their images, particularly herons and, more recently, owls. During his return to college, David became interested in dreams, their interpretations and messages. While at Antioch, he dove into Carl G. Jung and dream analysis. He longed to explore the world of the unconscious more deeply and applied to the Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. Making the decision to leave family and friends was not easy, but after dreaming he was flying over Europe on a heron’s back, he found the strength to make the leap of faith and move to Zurich, which would become a place of great significance for him.

David returned to the states in 1998 with a PhD in Jungian psychology and his then-wife, Elena Lazo, to

start a family in 1949 with the birth of their first son, Jeffrey. In 1952, Ken was stationed at Pearl Harbor. Toni flew on her own to Hawaii with her five-week-old second child, Kim, and two-year-old Jeff. ey completed their family in 1957 with the birth of Gary. In 1964 the family relocated from Rhode Island to Essex Junction, Vt. Antoinette lived in their Essex residence until 2022.

Toni was very generous with her time, volunteering over the years at the Brownell Public Library and the Essex Congregational Church. She pushed the book cart at the Medical Center Hospital of Vermont for two decades and also delivered Meals on Wheels into her eighties. She loved travel and spent time adventuring in Europe and the U.S. Toni was a bookworm and news junkie who was always up for lively political

have their ﬁrst child, Adam. ey moved to the shores of Maine, where David started his practice, and six years later had their daughter, Mircea. Adam and Mircea were always the true loves of his life and the subjects for exuberant stories of their lives, their talents and their sensibilities. His relationship with Mircea was one marked with laughter, chatter, a deep love of reading and car trips with “Cinnamon Girl” echoing in the background. Mircea’s artwork lined his walls and was a source of intense pride. Adam and David met each other on many levels, from Adam’s piano playing to chess to shared interest in neuroscience and dream interpretation. ey will miss their dad limitlessly, and his spirit will live forever in them.

David was a beloved analyst for his many clients in Maine, Vermont and ultimately worldwide. He was a serious psychologist with a penchant for the silly and serendipitous.

discussion. She loved to entertain and had a genuine interest in getting to know new people, hosting numerous dinner parties, luncheons, teas and bridge gatherings in her home. For years she also ran an investment club. Toni was a serious competitor who played to win. She enjoyed tennis and golf and in her later years grew a fondness for tai chi. She kept a gym membership past 90 years of age.

Antoinette was predeceased by her parents, Frederick and Addie Lewis; her husband of 48 years, William Kenneth Taylor; and a great-grandson, Milo Joseph Savio. She is survived by her three children, Jeffrey Taylor (Mary Ann), Kimberly Taylor (Ric) and Gary Taylor (Stephanie); grandchildren, Lindsay Taylor, Meggin Taylor (Martin), Emily Savio (Jacob), Katie Scherer (Walter) and

A gentle and wise soul, he was a beacon of hope and faith to many, a rock to his children, his loved ones and his clients. Everyone in his life felt as if they had a special connection with him, that they were seen and heard. He found meaning in everything from an Ent-like tree to the conversation between owls to the sun breaking through the clouds over Lake Champlain.

And over and over, he returned to Mount Philo to walk its paths, meditate on its beauty, share it with fellow hikers, watch the sun rise and set, and see the stars come out and one of his most favorite sightings, a catamount with kit in mouth jump the access road in front of him. Naturally, Mount Philo was the place he ﬁnished his ﬁnal chapter. David opened himself completely to the natural world and its symbolism and so was the recipient of its many gifts.

Lest we present a social media-like image of David, we

Maxwell Taylor (Molly); great-grandchildren Delia, Wesley and Calvin Savio, Etta Scherer, and Finley and Bennett Taylor; as well as many cherished friends. Interment will be in the spring and announced at a later date. Corbin & Palmer Funeral Home of Essex Junction will be handling arrangements. e family would like to thank the staff and residents at Maple Ridge Lodge Assisted Living in Essex Junction for their amazing care and fellowship. Toni felt blessed to spend her ﬁnal years at Maple Ridge and was a social butterﬂy to the very end, enjoying friends new and old.

In lieu of ﬂowers, donations may be made to the Age Well Association of Vermont, Brownell Public Library and First Congregational Church of Essex Junction.

offer that he was a complicated person. (Aren’t we all?) He held his loved ones to high standards and let them know when they fell short. And he fell short sometimes, too. And we loved him and love him and always will.

David was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Sheila, and leaves behind his children, Adam and Mircea; his brother Mike and wife Daria of Topsham, Maine, and their daughters, Megan, Emma and Samantha; brother Greg and wife Mary Beth of Ferrisburgh, Vt., and their daughters, Lily and Isabel; and his sister, Mary, of Winooski, Vt., and her children, Jack, Will and Maggie. He also leaves his great-nieces and -nephews, who will come to know him only through story.

Visiting hours: Tuesday, January 28, 5:30-7:30pm, Stephen C. Gregory and Son, 472 Meadownland Dr., South Burlington, VT. A celebration of David’s life will be held at a later date in the spring.

Scott A. Renzoni

DECEMBER 2, 1971JANUARY 9, 2025

LENOX, MASS.

Scott A. “Renzo” Renzoni, 53, passed away at home on January 9, 2025, in Lenox, Mass. Scott was born on December 2, 1971, in Burlington, Vt. He was the son of Ann (Bertrand) Renzoni and the late Robert Renzoni.

Renzo spent his childhood in Vermont and maintained a deep love for his home state throughout his life. He graduated from Rice Memorial High School in 1989 and Saint Michael’s College in 1993, where he earned degrees in English and drama. At Saint Michael’s he found his lifelong passion for the theater.

As an equity actor, Scott performed at numerous theaters in New England, including Shakespeare & Company, Majestic eater, Lost Nation eater, and Vermont Stage. Among many other roles, Renzo was lauded for his work in Judevine, a play

by David Budbill. With David’s daughter, Nadine, he co-ran the literary estate of David Budbill and a Facebook page honoring the late poet and playwright.

In addition to practicing his craft as an actor, Scott loved teaching and sharing his knowledge and experience onstage with students.

Renzo was also an accomplished poet who published in multiple outlets. One of his more recent poems was selected for the 2023 Fish Anthology by former U.S. poet laureate Billy Collins, with whom he had a close friendship.

Renzo’s love of the arts was built on a lifetime of voracious reading. He owned many hundreds of books and loved bookshops. In the 1990s, he worked at City Lights Bookstore in San Francisco, Calif., and over the last four years, he worked at the Bookstore in Lenox, Mass.

Scott was a practitioner of Zen meditation. He loved waterfalls and running water. He had a sharp, deadpan wit and did amazing impressions. He loved to make people laugh. One of the world’s great trivia mavens, Renzo was a four-time “Jeopardy!” champion in 2004.

A memorial will be held at Saint Michael’s on Sunday, March 9, beginning with mass at 11 a.m., at the Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel, followed by a celebration of life at the McCarthy Arts Center at 1 p.m.

In lieu of ﬂowers, donations can be made to the theaters mentioned above, the Dodge Poetry Festival or the Vermont Zen Center.

“Be great in act as you have been in thought.” (William Shakespeare, King John, 5.1)

Gloria Joy Beaulieu Daley

OCTOBER 27, 1940JANUARY 12, 2025

BURLINGTON VT.

Gloria Joy Beaulieu Daley died peacefully, sure of the love of her two daughters, Sara and Kristen, who were singing with her until her last hours.

Loved by so many, glo had friends all over the world. She loved to travel and the adventure stories at her commemoration and burial brought much laughter and joy.

Glo grew up in a large matriarchal French Canadian family in Manchester, N.H. After a short time in California, in 1972 she settled in the Burlington area to raise her children, live an activist lesbian-feminist life, and change the world with her generous and brilliant spirit. As an RN, glo helped to start the Vermont Women’s Health Center as soon as

Roe v. Wade passed, the ﬁrst women-run abortion clinic of its kind in the country. With the help of friends, she built her home in the Vermont woods, living off the grid until the home burned down years later. In the 1980s, she helped to ﬁnd the land, raise money and nourish HOWL (Vermont women’s land) and will be remembered in the memorial garden there.

Glo’s beloved partner, Susan Smith, predeceased her in 2021, after glo cared lovingly for her through Alzheimer’s. Her grief at losing Susan exacerbated her own cognitive and physical decline, but through it all, glo sang her heart out, appreciated nature, played Scrabble, felt gratitude and shared stories of a life so well lived and loved. Kris took the helm and steadily guided glo through tough spots to the end. Warrior, healer, activist, Buddhist, sailor, mother, lesbian, traveler, adored friend. glo is survived by her daughters, Kris and Sara; many dear friends, including her special Tita; grandchildren, Gus, Maxine and Veronica; and great-grandkids, Evelyn, Will, Wyatt and Isaiah, who all carry glo’s revolutionary spark.

Visit glo at Lakeview Cemetery in Burlington, especially when it’s snowing. View the video recording of her commemoration and burial at youtu.be/ O5ajBECRbjU?feature=shared.

IN MEMORIAM

Je rey Rodli

1981-2005

Twenty years ago, nine students in a privately managed apartment on the University of Vermont campus fell ill to carbon monoxide poisoning. Tragically, one of those students, Jeff Rodliff, lost his life. A beloved brother, uncle, son and friend, Jeff was known for his humor, kindness and ability to bring joy to everyone.

Jeff was taking classes in Burlington to become an accountant.

He was a graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, where he excelled academically and socially. As quarterback and captain of the football team, he earned the respect and admiration of his peers.

We miss you every day, Jeff.

With love, Mike, Jill, Tre, Tyler and Lili Diemer

MARCH 4, 1937JANUARY 19, 2025 HINESBURG, VT.

Jean Paul Hawkins, born on March 4, 1937, in Piggott, Ark., to Herbert and Zilpah Hawkins, passed away on January 19, 2025, in Burlington, Vt.

Jean was the beloved husband of Sara Lynn Owen Hawkins and the devoted father of Kent Douglas Hawkins (wife Laurie), of Louisiana and Paul Owen Hawkins (partner Howdy Russell) of Vermont. He is survived by his wife, Sara; his two boys; two grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren; his brother Joe Hawkins and wife Irma of Texas; special sister-in-law, Jo Ann Hawkins; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was born and raised in Rector and Pigott, Ark., and after meeting and marrying Sara, lived in Missouri and Kentucky and eventually settled in Danville, Ark., where they lived for 42 years. He dedicated his career to the U.S. Forestry Service and worked in Oregon, Missouri, Kentucky and Arkansas, in a

role that reﬂected his deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors.

Jean was a treasured husband, father, uncle, coworker and friend to many. He found joy in many pursuits, including bird-watching, traveling, riding motorcycles, listening to beautiful music, playing his harmonica, and sharing life, love and the outdoors with his family.

He was predeceased by his eldest brother, Jim Hawkins, and his older sister, Julia Johnson Maiden.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2 p.m. at the United Church of Christ in Hinesburg.. In lieu of ﬂowers, please make any gifts via donations to CASA — Court Appointed Special Advocate (Arkansas’ guardian ad litem), for the Booneville, Ark., branch at casaofthetripeaks.org/ donate.

IN MEMORIAM

Andrew Scott Hallock 1974-2023

In loving memory of Andrew Scott Hallock, August 2, 1974-January 24, 2023.

We think of our wonderful father, husband, son, brother, uncle and friend every day with love. We miss you.

Your family and friends

Want to memorialize a loved one in Seven Days?

Post your remembrance online and in print at sevendaysvt.com/lifelines. Or contact us at lifelines@sevendaysvt.com or 865-1020, ext. 10.

Jean Paul Hawkins

OBITUARIES

Mark Best Ducharme

AUGUST 12, 1944DECEMBER 27, 2024

JOHNSON, VT.

Mark Best Ducharme, “the Buggyman,” passed away at the University of Vermont Medical Center on December 27, 2024, with his life partner by his side.

Mark was born in Glens Falls, N.Y., during World War II to Lorraine Best and Eugene Ducharme. He was raised in Winooski, Vt., with siblings Gene, Sandy, Cheryl and Pam. His education included Rice High School, where he was selected for Boys State, which started a lifelong love of politics. Mark worked on Phil Hoff’s campaign for governor before attending St. Francis College in Biddeford, Maine, where he graduated in 1966 with a BA in English.

Mark thereafter joined the U.S. Army, where he learned Swahili to work in the Kenya Land Resettlement Program.

During the Vietnam War, Mark served in the 1st Air Cavalry, where his duties included

writing casualty reports. He volunteered for many missions, during one of which his helicopter was shot down over the South China Sea. Mark was subsequently awarded a Bronze Star.

Returning stateside, Mark started his own business, moving houses and buildings. Notable projects included the Whaling Museum in New Bedford, Mass., and Beneﬁt Street in Providence, R.I. Mark’s love of old structures led him to branch out into architectural salvage, and he personally led teams that preserved components of St. Patrick’s in Providence and a range of notable ecclesiastical and commercial buildings in New York City. It was while living and working in the metropolitan area that Mark met Edward Barnes, who became his partner of 49 years. Mark and Eddie, as they became known, created Buggyman Antiques in Johnson, Vt. Together they established a thriving shop brimming with three centuries of material culture and restored the omas McConnell house, built by a veteran of the American Revolution.

Hundreds of volumes on the wall behind the counter testiﬁed to Mark’s broad knowledge. His eye was drawn to form, color, surface and craftsmanship, and he appreciated a diversity of primitives, high-style furniture, art both ﬁne and folk, and the horse-drawn vehicles that created his moniker. Mark was blessed with a tremendous memory and outgoing personality, which allowed him to welcome and connect with thousands of

friends, neighbors and casual visitors.

Mark never met a dog he did not love, and they were welcomed to the shop with fresh water and treats. For many years, whenever you saw Mark, Cyrus the English springer spaniel was by his side. e contents of countless boxes of Tootsie Pops left in the hands of the shop’s youngest visitors; the pops sat next to a donation jar for the North Country Animal League. Mark steered proceeds from merchandise and insurance appraisals to that organization for decades. Declining health forced Mark to shutter Buggyman Antiques in May 2023, when 45 years in the antiques trade ended with a two-day on-site auction. Less than two months later, ﬂooding devastated the Lamoille Valley, claiming Mark and Ed’s home, among many, many others. e rest, as Mark would say, is history.

A celebration of life for his 80 years will be held at a date to be determined this spring, with interment at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, Vt. He will rest among his military comrades, amid the rolling hills of the Green Mountains he so loved. Mark lived his life with passion, enthusiasm and joy. His contributions, and quiet charity, left the world in a better place. Rest in peace, our friend. Memorial contributions in Mark’s memory may be made to the North Country Animal League, 16 Mountain View Meadow Rd., Morrisville, VT 05661 (ncal.com). Please visit awrfh.com to share your memories and condolences.

Jeanie Margaret MacDonough

JANUARY 4, 1940-JANUARY 19, 2025 CHARLOTTE, VT.

Jeanie Margaret MacDonough, 85, of Charlotte, Vt., passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vt., following a brief illness. Born on January 4, 1940, in Burlington, Jeanie was the daughter of Reginald and Margaret (Poole) MacDonough. She spent her childhood in Charlotte, attending local public schools through eighth grade, before graduating from Burlington High School in 1958. Jeanie pursued higher education at the University of Vermont, earning both her bachelor of science in home economics in 1962 and her master’s in teaching in 1970. She later received a PhD in childhood psychology from Cornell University in 1986. She married Bruce Ladeau of South Burlington in 1985. Jeanie dedicated her career to Vermont’s public school system as an educator, administrator, guidance counselor and grant writer. She was proud to have developed the ﬁrst statewide teaching curriculum for the Vermont Department of Health and to have secured grants that introduced some of the ﬁrst computers and technology education to the Milton School District. She aspired to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and teachers. In retirement, Jeanie and Bruce restored her family farmhouse in Charlotte, continued to make elaborate costumes for their grandchildren each Halloween, and spent winters in Florida, where they pursued their passion for nature and art. Jeanie cared for her brother John during his battle with cancer in 2004 and then again for her husband Bruce in 2011. Jeanie’s determination was evident when, at the age of 72, she climbed Mount Abraham with her family to scatter Bruce’s ashes.

Jeanie remained vibrant and active throughout her later years. She designed costumes for local theater productions, maintained a ﬂourishing vegetable garden (most of which she donated to the food shelf) and enthusiastically supported youth programs at her church. She spent countless hours at her sewing machine mending winter clothing for children, which she donated to those in need. She continued to make her legendary mac and cheese for the Salvation Army kitchen in Burlington, where she and Bruce had volunteered for decades. Jeanie was a lifelong member of the Charlotte Congregational Church, where her mother and grandmother were also members. In 2024, she was honored as a deacon for life. She will be remembered for her kindness, playful joy and quiet generosity.

Jeanie is survived by a large extended family, including her cousin, Patricia Horsford of South Burlington, Vt.; sister-in-law, Christine MacDonough of Sunnyvale, Calif.; nieces Stacey MacDonough Wolfe and husband Greg of Sunnyvale, Calif., and Marcie MacDonough of Sisters, Ore.; stepniece, Mary Baker of Bristol, Vt.; eight grandnieces and grandnephews; three great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews; stepchildren, Rob Ladeau and wife Marsha of New Hampshire, Debbie Ladeau of Bristol, Vt., Jim Ladeau and wife Noriko of Japan, and Leslie O’Halloran of Florida; son-in-law, omas O’Halloran of Brandon, Vt.; and step-grandchildren Alex and omas Ladeau, Bennett and Sean Webb, and Eric and Jamie Cannizzaro. She was predeceased by her husband, Bruce Ladeau; her brothers, John and Reginald MacDonough; and her niece Deborah MacDonough.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, 2 p.m., at the Charlotte Congregational Church. In lieu of ﬂowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Congregational Church, PO Box 12, 403 Church Hill Rd., Charlotte, VT 05445.

Benjamin Waitt Thurber

SEPTEMBER 27, 1932JANUARY 21, 2025

CRAFTSBURY, VT.

Benjamin Waitt Thurber, 92, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025, in his home in Craftsbury, Vt., following a long battle with vascular dementia. A beloved father, artist and minister, Ben will always be remembered for his kindness, commitment to his community and great sense of humor.

Ben was born on September 27, 1932, in Newport, Vt., to Wendell and Maude Thurber. After spending his early childhood in Island Pond, Vt., Ben and his family moved to Burlington, Vt. He attended Burlington High School and graduated in 1950, earning the title “Class Artist.” Ben then moved west to California, where he graduated from Pasadena College in 1954 with a major in theology and a minor in art. He declined a full art scholarship to the Art Institute of Los Angeles and pursued graduate studies at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena from 1954 to 1958, where he received his master of divinity degree. He was ordained in 1959 and held standing in the Vermont United Church of Christ for 65 years.

Throughout his varied career, he used art in his ministries and taught at local community centers. His first church was in Derby, Vt., where he also served Morgan, Vt., from 1958 to 1961. He then moved to Des Moines, Iowa, from 1962 to 1964, where he served as pastor before moving on to work with

intervarsity students as a chaplain in Minnesota, South Dakota and Iowa from 1964 to 1969. He became assistant professor of religion and chaplain at Malone College in Ohio from 1969 to 1971. He returned to his role as pastor from 1971 to 1982 at the Hamilton Congregational Church in Massachusetts. After 1982, he shifted gears to do art full-time while serving interim ministerial assignments throughout Vermont (Coventry, Vergennes, Salisbury, Milton) and filled in at churches throughout the state. From 1993 to 2003, he served as pastor of the Church on the Common in Craftsbury.

In addition to his ministerial work, Ben was an accomplished artist, focusing on pen-and-ink sketches and paintings of classic Vermont scenes and buildings. He served as president of the Vermont Handcrafters and participated in craft shows and stores throughout Vermont and New England. He is also known for his tree fungus art and his annual calendar that featured his sketches and watercolors celebrating Vermont. The 2025 calendar is the 41st edition. Ben was predeceased by his parents, Wendell and Maude Thurber; his brothers, Stanley and Lawrence Thurber; and his sisters, Atlantis Poor, Isabel Brown, Francelia Thurber, Rachel Thurber and Elizabeth Thurber. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Beverly, of Craftsbury, Vt.; his daughters, Carla Burridge of Sandwich, Mass. (husband Bob), Julia Wood of Morgan, Vt. (husband Gregg), June Ellen Cushing of Bolton, Mass. (husband Pascal), Barbara Reiley of Kula, Hawaii (husband Michael), Ruth Lindsay of Beverly, Mass. (husband Doug), and their mother, Sara Hamel Connolly; his sons, Benjamin Thurber Jr. of Walpole, N.H. (wife Lindsay), and James Thurber of Burlington (wife Karyn); his stepchildren, Kurt Mayr of Glastonbury, Conn. (wife Abigail), Karoline Mayr of Brambleton, Va. (husband Todd), and Karl Mayr of Westport, Conn. (wife Nicole); 32 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; and his niece, Bonnie Thurber Klimowski (husband Steve) of Fairfax, Vt.

Special thanks to Shauna Shepard, Julie Wood, Jennifer LaPoint, VNA aides Abby and Chelsea, Pastor Kim Larose, Michelle Warren, Cheryl Williams, and Dr. Alison Landry for their kind help during Ben’s final days.

A celebration of Ben’s life and legacy is planned for Memorial Day weekend (details to be announced later). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Craftsbury Church on the Common’s Deacons’ Crisis Fund, PO Box 46, Craftsbury Common, VT 05827, or Orleans/ Essex VNA Hospice, 46 Lakemont Rd., Newport, VT 05855 (orleansessexvna.org).

James “Jim” Manley

MARCH 2, 1938-JANUARY 25, 2025 MILTON, VT.

James Leslie Manley Jr., beloved father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on Mears Road in Milton in 1938 to James L. Manley Sr. and Gertrude Mears Manley, Jim was a man of integrity, warmth and boundless energy who touched the lives of everyone he encountered.

Jim graduated from Milton High School in 1956 and was active in music, sports and, later, alumni reunions. A member of the University of Vermont Class of 1960, he obtained a B.S. degree in dairy science technology. While at UVM, Jim was a charter member of the UVM chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho, the agricultural fraternity. His longstanding connection to UVM was evident in his continued support for their basketball team. In the 1960s, Jim was a Vermont Air

Susan M. Griffin

National Guard member and, out of college, he was recruited to work at Ayerst Labs in Rouses Point, N.Y. For most of his life, he was a dairy and crop farmer, and then he later divided his time between farming, building homes and working as a licensed real estate broker. Jim enjoyed traveling and took many trips with family around the country, including Alaska and throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

Jim loved giving back and engaging in the community of Milton, a town he cherished. He volunteered his time coaching youth sports and was known never to miss his sons’ or grandchildren’s games. Jim enjoyed connecting with friends and the community during his barn sales and while visiting yard sales. He was delighted with his membership in the Milton Grange, the Milton Historical Society and the United Church of Milton, and he also loved pulling up a chair during the morning coffee group at Rene’s store.

Every year on his birthday, March 2, Jim would be in the family sugar house enjoying the sugaring process, a role he treasured passing down to his children and grandchildren. Jim was a proud steward of his family’s land, including Arrowhead Mountain, and was dedicated to preserving its legacy. He maintained the farm equipment and tended the fields with his family until last summer.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lorraine (Cota) Manley, whom he married in 1979; and sons, James Vernon (J.V.) Manley and wife, Lynne (Pekala) Manley, Mark Patrick Manley, partner Kendra Carey, and Jeffrey Thomas Manley,

MARCH 13, 1957- JANUARY 25, 2025 ST. PETERSBURG, FLA., AND BURLINGTON, VT.

Susan M. Griffin, 67, of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Burlington, Vt., passed away suddenly on January 25, 2025, in Burlington.

Susan was born in Middlebury, Vt., to Eileen Thomas on March 13, 1957. She graduated from Rice Memorial High School (class of ’75) and Champlain College. She married Robert Griffin on October 7, 1978, in Burlington. She worked as an accountant for many years for Hickock and Boardman and later for Mercy Connections. She was actively involved in the League of Women Voters, her Al-Anon group and a voluntary tax preparation service for folks with limited means, all in St. Petersburg. Her biggest joys were her grandchildren, welcoming endless FaceTime calls and tea parties with her granddaughters, Evelyn, Cora and Lydia; truck playtime with her grandson Julian; and the obligatory patty-cake and “Itsy Bitsy Spider” concerts for Gordon. Sue’s life

and wife, Michelle (Zitta) Manley, all of Milton. He was so proud of his sons. He was also a proud stepfather to Brad Walker Wright and his wife, Yahui Hou, of California. He adored his grandchildren, Owen Manley, Katherine Manley, Evelyn Manley, Logan Manley and Caroline Manley, who brought him endless joy and pride. He also enjoyed the company of Owen’s partner, Nicole DeOrsey. Jim’s many nieces and nephews were very special to him, and Jim always said he was blessed to have the in-law families of the Cotas and the Duffys and Rowleys, whom he loved and enjoyed spending time with.

Jim was predeceased by his first wife, Ellen “Nell” (Duffy) Manley, in 1968, and by his older sisters, Jane and her husband, John Fitzgerald, Betty and her husband, Alfred, and Nancy Bullis and her husband, Frank, whose memories he held close to his heart, along with memories of his mother and father and his extended family. Jim’s legacy is his determination, loyalty, love for his family and unwavering pride in Milton’s community. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 31, 4 to 7 p.m. at Minor Funeral Home and Cremation Center. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, 11 a.m. at the United Church of Milton.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Jim’s memory be made to the Milton Historical Society, McLure Miller Respite House or the Milton Family Community Center Food Shelf.

was defined by her giving nature. If you needed help, she would jump on a plane to be there for you. If she heard you were sick, she would be there with soup. She might show up on your birthday with a homemade pie. She also loved to do yoga with her girlfriends and walking, biking and weight lifting with her husband.

Sue was preceded in death by her mother, Eileen Thomas, and her brother William Thomas.

Sue is survived by her husband, Robert Griffin; sons, Garrett Griffin and Robbie Griffin, and their wives, Clara Wreath Griffin and Stephanie Beland, respectively; sisters, Kathleen Shiverick and Ellen Bessette and her partner, Bruce Beaudoin; brother Michael Thomas and his wife, Sue Thomas-Frost; and grandchildren, Evelyn, Cora, Lydia, Julian and Gordon.

A wake will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, 4 to 6 p.m., and a celebration of her life on Saturday, February 1, 2025, 1 to 3 p.m., both at Lavigne Funeral Home, 132 Main St., Winooski, VT.

Donations may be given to Mercy Connections in Burlington, Vt.

YEAR of the DOGS

Stories of grit and grace from UVM men’s soccer’s championship run BY

JOE SEXTON

Maxi Kissel had history at his feet. He was alone with the ball and the opposing goalkeeper just minutes into overtime of the national championship game.

The University of Vermont men’s soccer team had made it to the title game of the NCAA Tournament with a seasonlong run of late, heart-stopping goals. Now, in the 95th minute of a 1-1 game with Marshall University on a chilly mid-December night in Cary, N.C., Kissel dribbled the ball into the 18-yard box as the goalkeeper charged to confront him. The Vermont forward shuffled his feet, used his right foot to punch the ball to his left as the keeper scrambled to adjust and catch up. He couldn’t.

With Kissel in the clear, what had been unthinkable since UVM’s 1791 founding suddenly had become all but certain: Kissel was going to score, and Vermont was going to win its first ever national crown in any sport other than skiing. It would be hard to overstate the magnitude of the accomplishment. The university’s soccer program has had its good days over the decades, including the unforgettable 1989 team that made

The Catamounts may have entered the 2024 NCAA tournament unseeded, but they were far from overlooked.

the NCAA quarterfinals. The ski team has six national titles, though none since 2012. And UVM basketball and hockey teams have had the occasional national tournament moment — T.J. Sorrentine’s overtime dagger “from the parking lot” against Syracuse in 2005 is still the stuff of local legend. But Burlington is not South Bend, Ind., or Chapel Hill, N.C., college towns with bank vaults full of championship hardware.

And so maybe fans shouldn’t have been surprised it took six weeks to organize a parade for the triumphant UVM team, given no living Vermonter had ever even contemplated such a thing.

When the celebration was at last held in Burlington on Sunday — thousands lining Church Street in bright winter sunshine, a mix of students, politicians, players and fans — the team’s coach, Rob Dow, once more shouted what had become the team’s informal slogan during its unprecedented run to a title:

“Not underdogs. Just dogs.”

But for those paying closer attention in recent years — folks who might have driven the 800 miles to see a season opener in Kalamazoo, Mich., or stood freezing in

Maxi Kissel kicking the winning goal

UVM players celebrating the NCAA championship

the stands at UVM’s Virtue Field in late November — Vermont’s elusive first title actually had felt within reach for a while.

The Catamounts had won the America East championship in two of the past four years. They advanced to the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament in 2022, recording seven straight shutouts and rising to No. 4 in the nation. When UVM lost in the third round a year later, it felt more like an authentic disappointment than a rare achievement.

Dow, who has now put together eight consecutive winning seasons since being hired in 2017, has done it in part by embracing what so many other programs have as well — recruiting foreign players. The 2024 team had 11 in all, from as nearby as Canada and as far away as Hong Kong. Just two players, Nash Barlow and Karl Daly, both of Burlington, are from Vermont.

And so the Catamounts may have entered the 2024 NCAA tournament unseeded, but they were far from overlooked. None of that makes Kissel’s left-footed finish last month in North Carolina any less remarkable. The Cats’ win made them the first America East team to ever win a national title in any sport. They knocked off four seeded teams, including second-ranked Pittsburgh and No. 3 seed Denver, along the way. UVM was just the third team in the past 40 years to win a title with an overtime goal.

To fully appreciate that moment requires some digging into the stories of the coaches and players who, over long years and in dramatic recent moments, made it happen.

The backstory to Kissel’s goal, for instance, began five years ago with the arrival of the center back who had sent the ball his way, Zach Barrett. The decision to play a novel configuration in the finals — 4-2-2-2, with four players back and two up top — was the brainchild of Dow, of course, but also his associate head coach Brad Cole, who, a decade earlier, had all but given up the game amid mental health struggles.

And at the end, with history made and uniforms being torn off in the hysteria, there was the exquisite midfield embrace between Yaniv Bazini and Max White. Bazini, the team’s Israeli striker, had played for more than a year with his country caught up in a terrible war, in constant contact with family and friends to make sure they were safe.

White is a 15-year-old boy from Richmond, Vt., whose health issues had forced him to give up the sport he loved but who had spent more than four years embedded with the Vermont team as it clawed its way toward the unimaginable. White’s fortitude and devotion to a team he’d grown up adoring made him the program’s secret beating heart.

What follows are some of the tales of hardship and triumph, of doubt and faith, of recovery and tenderness. They explain a lot about the culture of the Vermont team and the characters who created it. And they give context and meaning to what happened 10 days before Christmas, with history at Maxi Kissel’s feet.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF BROTHERHOOD

Rob Dow was in a familiar crisis on the sideline in Cary. Marshall had broken through in a scoreless game with a goal midway through the second half. Vermont goalkeeper Niklas Herceg — playing with a broken finger, as he had all season

— had been unable to corral and collect a Marshall cross, the rebound falling to Tarik Pannholzer, who punched it cleanly into the top of the net.

There were barely 20 minutes left to rescue Vermont’s chances.

But rescues were the team’s specialty. Two weeks earlier, an overtime goal by Bazini had given UVM a 1-0 third-round win against San Diego. A freakish goal against Pittsburgh in the Elite Eight, again by Bazini, sealed a 2-0 victory in the game’s final minute, sending Vermont to the tournament’s Final Four for the first time ever. And then, in the national semifinal, Bazini scored once more, a twisting half-volley in the 84th minute to level the game against the University of Denver at 1-1. Kissel went top corner with a rocket to score the decisive

goal in penalty kicks and send UVM to the title game. That season, UVM had scored a total of 16 goals in the 83rd minute or later.

At the heart of all the heroics was Vermont’s strategy of adding late subs with fresh legs and moving the six-footfive Max Murray, a center back stalwart all season, up top with the forwards to create chances with his height and reach.

Amid the clamor of screaming fans in Cary, Dow, 43, listened to his gut. He sent in Marcell Papp, a first-year forward from Budapest, Hungary, and moved Murray from the back line to the front.

Dow is a compact, sturdy ex-hockey winger, with bright blue eyes and a broad, easy smile. Along with some of the players, he grew a mustache during the tournament run. People told him he looked like the TV character Ted Lasso. The comparison went beyond the bad facial hair.

Like the compassionate Lasso, listening had been key to Dow’s long search for what he calls his “coach’s voice.” As a kid, he had a fear of public speaking, mixed up words and sentences when he tried, and worked through embarrassment to conquer a speech impediment. The issue persisted to adulthood: One of his teams gave him an ovation when he at last made his way through a pregame pep talk without stumbling.

But the voice Dow sought to cultivate was about more than fiery rallying cries. It needed to be a voice of authority, of an expert and a father. Sometimes all at once.

In time, he’d come to realize his own father had given him a clue about how to master that voice.

UVM fans celebrating at the parade

Coach Rob Dow carrying the trophy during the Church Street parade

Dow grew up in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, a suburb of Halifax. The town’s spiritual center was an ice rink and recreation facility. Dow spent most of his boyhood there, playing hockey, playing bingo with his grandmother on Tuesday nights, doing his homework in the library.

The National Hockey League was the dream for many kids — and their parents — in Cole Harbour. That NHL superstar Sidney Crosby had grown up in town made the dream more tangible — and suffocating. Youth hockey in Canada is an intense scene, marked by pressure, politics, hazing, insularity. It was not that way in Dow’s family.

Dow was good enough to make the junior national team. But his father made clear that he just wanted his son to do the things he loved. On rides home from practice through the Nova Scotia nights, a time when most parents pushed their sons to succeed, his father did more listening than talking.

And so Dow, who had played and excelled at soccer, in part as an escape from the town’s hockey mania, listened when a player from Iceland, struggling with language and homesickness, said he wanted to quit and go back to his family’s farm. Dow, then an assistant coach, watched as his boss got the player access to UVM’s farm, where he baled hay and shoveled manure — and found a girlfriend. It was a lesson not in soccer instruction but in creatively answering a basic human need.

Dow listened during the long crucible of the pandemic, through countless Zoom calls and virtual workouts as players battled isolation, anger and despair at their upended careers. When one frustrated player tried to organize a shutdown of the entire program, Dow thought it was a terrible idea. But he nonetheless encouraged players to write directly to top school officials.

He listened to the team’s doubts when half a dozen starters were injured to begin the 2024 season and the first four games produced just a single win.

Amid all that listening, a special, durable connection between coach and players took hold. And a team culture was born, one Dow thinks is distinctive for a men’s program, in soccer or any other sport.

No one would outwork or outhustle Vermont; no player would be spared accountability; fierce defending would be its hallmark, and maybe the goals would come.

But there would also be a sense of brotherhood. Not in the familiar, macho way, with late-night carousing and talk of courage. His players would be honest with each other about who they were and what they thought; once, a Black player challenged a white teammate who said he didn’t see the race of his teammates. The Black player stood, pointed at his own

Honestly, I didn’t know much about Vermont — whether it was a state or a country.

YANIV BAZINI

skin, and said: “Look, that’s Black. Let me be clear about who I am.”

Dow’s players wouldn’t feel ashamed to want help and ask for it; he started a mentoring program for older players to help younger ones with the mental health challenges that come with finding confidence and one’s place.

While Dow said they might cringe at the word, his players allowed themselves to be vulnerable in front of each other. The 2019 women’s national team that won the World Cup had done that, and Dow thinks it’s what imbued that team with a sense of higher purpose.

In preseason training, the team recorded its highest-ever collective fitness score. Max Murray shifted positions without complaint from forward to center back. Andrew Millar played five different positions to fill in for the injured. Zach Barrett, the fifth-year captain, and three other senior players paid for campus meal plans out of their own pocket so they could eat every day with the team’s underclassmen. Players gathered every Sunday morning to watch English football on TV. There were poker and pizza nights. Dow arranged for the team to meet the famous Vermont team

of 1989, to take a measure of what lasting bonds looked and felt like.

In the 81st minute against Marshall, Dow’s decision to listen to his gut paid off. Murray intercepted the Marshall goalkeeper’s clearing attempt in the attacking end, settled the ball and found Papp to his right. Papp executed a glorious bit of one-two passing with David Ismail and, with the ball returned to him, rifled a right-footed shot across the goal box and inside the far left post.

1-1. Vermont had new life.

THE NICEST STRIKER

The near misses were piling up and tearing at Yaniv Bazini as the clock ticked away in Cary. The team’s striker had scored in every game of the tournament — 14 total on the season to lead the team. Now, in the biggest game of his life and of his school’s history, the magic seemed to have run out.

In the 23rd minute, forward Ryan Zellefrow sent the ball to Bazini and Ismail on a two-on-one break. Bazini played the ball off to Ismail, who was then alone against Marshall’s Aleksa Janjic. Nothing. The Marshall keeper deftly parried Ismail’s shot. Six minutes later, Bazini got a chance off a corner kick, needing only to head the ball in, a striker’s bread and butter. His attempt wound up just wide.

The teams went to the half scoreless. But Bazini, 25, was not the type to give up. Compared to October 7, 2023, a frustrating half of soccer was a conquerable thing.

Yaniv Bazini

Fans at the Church Street parade

That October morning, Bazini awoke in a New Jersey hotel room to hundreds of messages on his phone. Then he got a call from Dow.

“Are you OK?” the coach asked. Israel, where Bazini had grown up, learned to kick a ball and done his compulsory military service, was under assault. More than 1,000 were dead, the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust.

Bazini hung up with Dow and reached his family. They were alive, but rockets were landing in their friends’ yards. He knew people who had been at the music festival where more than 350 were slain. Bazini had decisions to make. Should he play later that day against New Jersey Institute of Technology? Should he return to Israel?

Bazini had come a long way from his boyhood in and around Beit Hanan, a village of some 500 in central Israel. Beit Hanan is known as a moshav, a communal settlement slightly larger than a typical kibbutz. Such communities have a different calculus for the sharing of income and other assets but, like the kibbutz, are built on the principle of “everybody together.”

He’d begun playing soccer in kindergarten and thrived at his local high school. At one of Israel’s soccer academies, he made the switch to striker after being found not fit enough to play on the wing. He’d started his college career at North Carolina State, got injured, had a falling out with the coaching staff and received a happier call from Dow.

Come to Vermont, Dow told him.

“Honestly, I didn’t know much about Vermont — whether it was a state or a country,” Bazini said, laughing. “I mean, I think I knew it wasn’t a country.”

Bazini is a lithe six-two, with a classic striker’s mix of length, flexibility and clever feet. He sports a manicured goatee and speaks softly, his English considered but clear.

In Vermont, he acclimated almost immediately. He played in all 22 games

of the 2022 season, scoring game winners against Harvard University, University of Massachussetts and, in the third round of the NCAA tournament, against University of California, Los Angeles.

In 2023, he made winning goals against Western Michigan University, Bryant University and, on October 3, just days before the attacks, against University of Connecticut.

Months, maybe years of war stretched in front of his people back in Israel. Soccer games suddenly could not feel less significant.

Bazini recognized that returning to Israel would not decide his country’s future. And so he chose to embrace what his coach and teammates always regarded as his essential goodness.

As a team’s designated top goal scoring threat, strikers tend to have a certain on-field persona: greedy, ornery, sharp-elbowed.

“He’s the nicest striker I’ve ever encountered,” Dow said with a chuckle.

Bazini would stay. He pledged to be the best ambassador for Israel he could. Acts of kindness and humility do not end wars. But they do not hurt.

Bazini played, if distractedly, that day in New Jersey and in the games that followed. He accepted the support of his team, and his form improved.

In 2024, Bazini put together one of the meanest seasons for a striker in UVM history: starts in all 24 games, 30 points, 14 goals, months of productivity that made him the third-greatest career goal scorer in school history.

If Bazini was frustrated in the finals against Marshall — he’d eventually record a game-high four shot attempts — Vermont would never have reached that game if Bazini hadn’t scored on an overtime penalty kick against San Diego in the tournament’s third round.

Bazini is the team’s designated penalty shot taker. He doesn’t have a favorite spot

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YEAR of the DOGS « P.29

to aim. Penalty shots are a guessing game between kicker and keeper. Conventional wisdom is to shoot for one side of the goal or the other, forcing the keeper to commit to a direction and block the shot.

Or you can play ball down the middle. But that takes guts. If the keeper stays put, you will be second-guessed mercilessly for the rest of time.

“Of course I was nervous,” Bazini said of his third-round kick. “It’s good to be nervous. The question is whether you will control the nervousness or it will control you.”

He went down the middle, and UVM advanced.

Bazini says for him, it is still October 7, 2023. A hard day to accept and impossible to shake. But there is also December 16, 2024. Bazini wouldn’t have gotten there without the teammates who recognized his hurt, fear and split loyalties and supported him.

And so with their striker misfiring in the championship 90 minutes, his teammates delivered for him when it mattered most — coaches sending on late reinforcements, sumptuous goals from Papp and Kissel, critical late-game saves from Herceg, the keeper.

Call it a soccer moshav. “Everyone together.”

SECOND-CHANCE GOALS

Few people in Vermont watch more soccer tape than Brad Cole. With 48 hours to prepare for the game against 13-seeded Marshall in the finals, Vermont’s associate head coach watched every second of that team’s season. He was confident in his assessment of what he had seen: Marshall’s center backs were simply not as athletic as Vermont’s forwards. If the Catamounts could create one-on-one moments in the attacking end, their players were fast and strong enough to win those battles.

Cole was part of the pregame decision to change the team’s tactical strategy. They would abandon the shape they had played leading up to the finals — three defenders, six midfielders and one forward — and play with two men up top instead of the single striker.

It felt risky but right. Cole, 32, saw the opportunity clearly — no small thing for a young man who, a decade earlier, couldn’t see clear to the next day.

In 2012, Cole was living in a closet in Burlington, a desperate sublet for a desperate young man struggling with depression and the partying he did to ease it. What little money he had came from making deliveries for a nearby Chinese restaurant.

Sleep till 2 p.m., party till 5 a.m.

I try to see the good in the players. Even though I made mistakes, people saw good in me.

BRAD COLE

The routine took a toll on Cole’s body. It didn’t spare his sense of pride, either. Cole had been a hometown success story — a South Hero boy, a captain on every youth soccer club he’d ever played on, a ball boy at UVM men’s games. As a junior in high school, he’d walked into the Vermont soccer office and signed on the spot. He’d toured schools across the country, but he’d decided: I’ll play for Vermont, or I won’t play college soccer at all.

The following year, UVM won exactly one game. Scared but undeterred, Cole joined the team as a freshman. That season, UVM produced a stunning win against Stanford, then ranked 13th in the country. Over Cole’s first two seasons, the team became a credible force.

“We weren’t terrible,” he said. “We could compete.”

Cole described himself as a “smart player. Never the high-talent guy. Locker room guy. Competitor. Glue guy.” Some predicted he’d be named a captain as a junior.

He never made it to his third year. In fact, he hadn’t been to a single class at school the fall semester of his sophomore year.

Cole had a poisonous relationship with his roommate. There were some

And then, in 2014, he sucked it up, swallowed his pride and went to meet with the UVM coaching staff. He told them aspects of his struggles he’d shared with few, if any, others.

What they said shocked him.

“Welcome back.”

Cole was named a captain the following season and later won the university’s Russell O. Sunderland Memorial Trophy, given to a student-athlete who “overcomes obstacles and maintains a high quality of play and academic prowess,” according to the school’s website

Cole didn’t have another season in him. The two years away had taxed his body too much. So he joined the coaching staff as an undergrad assistant, working the lowest rung on the ladder.

The restart worked. Cole’s second chance would be a life of coaching. He coached in England, at Cornell, at the University of Portland. He’d become known as an accomplished recruiter and returned to UVM as Dow’s associate head coach in 2023.

Cole oversees recruiting and training, and he has valuable input into the team’s lineups and strategy.

“I try to have empathy for what people are going through and understand that they’ll make mistakes,” he said. “I try to see the good in the players. Even though I made mistakes, people saw good in me. I want to pass that on.”

personal dramas eating at him, as well. He was angry, frustrated, not sure how to cope. He went to practice, returned to his dorm, sunk into isolation. He was in a crisis he could not name or conquer on his own.

He met with the coaches, told them he was quitting both the team and school. He said nothing of his struggles. Blindsided, his coaches asked him to take a breath, give it thought and come back in a week.

He said he would. He never did.

Cole’s parents were concerned but gave him his space. He would be on his own financially. “Fair enough,” Cole said. He delivered food, worked a restaurant gig and slept in a closet.

It was the restaurant owner who sized him up one day and said, “You need to see a therapist.”

Today, Cole can’t say how that therapist was paid for. He might have been covered under his mother’s health insurance. She might have paid out of her pocket.

But it turned him around. He and his therapist talked about the game he loved, about repairing burned bridges. The therapist encouraged him to reengage with soccer in a simple, comfortable way. Cole returned to coaching young kids.

Cole never stops moving, a kinetic bundle of both nervous and directed energy. At six foot one and 175 pounds, he’s as fit now as he was as a player on Far Post youth teams 15 years ago. He has piercing blue eyes with a wise-guy twinkle.

Asked what he regarded as his greatest contributions to the tactics and achievements of the 2024 team, Cole listed two.

First, he said he was delighted by what he called the “siege” mentality the team adopted on defense.

“We’re going to stand in our box and dare you to even try and score,” he said. “Teams think they are in control, and yet they don’t create chances against this.”

The second achievement was less tactical but far more important: the energy and optimism and fun that marked the team’s approach to every aspect of preparation and play.

“I think that goes further than anything,” he said.

Sleeping in a closet for months, out of school and out of money and seemingly out of answers, Cole once thought he’d lost that joy and purpose for himself.

It was certainly something like joy that started to bubble up early in the first overtime period. Maxi Kissel was on a collision course with the only center back left to defend his end. Based on Cole’s research, he liked Kissel’s chances.

Ryan Zellefrow and Brad Cole

‘WE NEED YOU TO RUN’

Overtime against Marshall had barely begun, and Bazini had just missed yet one more chance at ending the game. Now Zach Barrett was back at the top of the box in Vermont’s end, defending his ass off.

He’d just outdueled a Marshall attacker in a pitched one-on-one struggle and played the ball to safety. But back Marshall came, mounting another incursion into the attacking third.

Barrett wasn’t having it. He stepped in front of a Marshall attacker, blocked the ball meant for that forward and raced to retrieve it before it got to the sideline.

Barrett, a 23-year-old fifth-year senior from Pennsylvania, was the team’s captain and conscience. A bruising six-one, he was also the club’s enforcer, but not because of a mean streak. He’d been through it all, the exciting breakthroughs and the most miserable setbacks. Upon arriving in Vermont, the COVID-19 pandemic scrapped his freshman season. The subsequent spring campaign amounted to a mere handful of games. They made it to the NCAA tournament the next couple seasons without reaching the final four teams.

What sustained Barrett throughout the dislocation and disappointment was the dream Dow had talked about when recruiting him to come to Burlington: We aim to win a national championship.

It was half-charming and half-lunatic. But it brought Barrett back for his fifth fall in Burlington. As he raced the ball to the sideline in the championship game, he was playing in his 2,058th minute of an exciting and exhausting season.

Barrett got to the ball and, worried about being tackled from behind, quickly picked his head up. He caught a glimpse of Kissel beginning a run far up the right flank. With his right foot, Barrett played a long, high-arcing ball and said to himself: Run, Maxi. Please, run.

Barrett had made the plea before, and not politely.

Late in the first half of the November 1 game against UMass Lowell, Vermont had been defending in its end for close to five unbroken minutes. Tension and fatigue were exacting a cost and imperiling a 1-0 lead.

At last, the ball went out-of-bounds. Barrett wasted no time confronting Kissel, the team’s fastest player and one of its most talented goal scorers. Barrett didn’t think Kissel was working hard enough. He was furious.

“Maxi!” Barrett screamed. “Come here.”

He shoved him in the chest.

“Wake up!” he hollered. “We need you to run.”

In the locker room at halftime, the 1-0 lead intact, Kissel was downcast. While other players tried to comfort him, Barrett gave no quarter.

Go ahead, be sad, he thought to himself. We need you to run more.

Barrett was the model for a classic, oldschool Vermont player: modest talent, big heart; play direct, be direct — with teammates as well as opponents. No drama. No headlines. A center back’s quiet glory.

“I have a good day,” Barrett said, “when no one is talking about me.”

Barrett can recite his good days and bad days over half a decade in Burlington by heart:

and played as if they had two extra men, winning 3-2 on a flying scissor kick by Garrett Lillie with four minutes left.

And finally, at home against UMass Amherst on October 1, 2024. Vermont played a brilliant second half to earn a 2-2 draw and make up for an equally miserable first half. The team stayed on Virtue Field for half an hour afterward, leaving their parents waiting with dinner. It was a moment of truth. The season just hadn’t been good enough. Something had to change. The next day, in a players-only meeting, Barrett gave a talk.

He told the team to shrink its focus to nothing more than the next game, the next half, the next ball played forward.

“How do you eat an elephant?” he asked his befuddled teammates. “One bite at a time.”

UVM went 12-1-1 over the next 14 games, including the College Cup.

If Barrett was the embodiment of a traditional Vermont player, more gutsy infantryman than skillful superstar, Kissel represented the school’s embrace of foreign players, with their often more developed technical skills. Kissel, 22, is a wispy 150 pounds, with a broccoli sprout of curly black hair and a silky-smooth face of smiling mischief. The son of a German father and Haitian mother, he was born in New York City but played virtually all of his formative soccer in Germany.

Kissel’s first stop in America was the University of Bridgeport, where, over two seasons, he scored 36 goals. In fall 2024, he transferred to Vermont.

Barrett loved a lot about Kissel. He had been the first new guy to show up at captain’s practice before the season started, working with his teammates before formal training began. No one, in fact, made Barrett laugh more than Kissel. He was a great locker room presence.

And he could play.

Often a late sub off the bench, Kissel had scored 10 goals coming into the title game against Marshall, five of them game winners. No one in the country had more.

His first game in spring 2021 against New Hampshire, Barrett, just 19, playing 90 minutes against men of 23 and 24, getting run over but hanging in there. He belonged.

A win against New Hampshire the following fall to take Vermont’s first America East crown in six years.

The 2022 NCAA second-round game against Southern Methodist University, when UVM went to the locker room at the half down 2-0. Dow used a whiteboard to diagram plays and positioning and accidentally used 12 or 13 magnets for Vermont’s players instead of 11. Afraid to note the mistake, his players went out

Still, Barrett could be hard on him. Kissel’s body language, in practice and in games, could seem suspect. He didn’t exhibit the perfect attitude about starting only four games. Kissel thought some of Barrett’s ire was unfair, and at least one coach thought the speedy forward’s body language could be deceptive. Kissel really did care.

Barrett came to regret the way he handled Kissel’s lack of hustle in the game against UMass Lowell.

“Not my proudest moment,” he said.

Zach Barrett

UVM fans at the championship game

“But I did get what was best for the team out of him.”

In overtime of the title game, with a shot at the dream Dow had sold him on five years earlier, Barrett again needed the best out of Kissel, for him to get to the ball he’d played for him before the Marshall center back. Kissel’s best runs during the year had been clocked at 22 miles per hour. If he hit that speed once more, Vermont might actually catch up to a title.

“I wasn’t really hopeful,” Kissel admitted, fearing Marshall backliner Alex Bamford would get there first. “But then I just said, You know what, give it my all So I started sprinting 100 percent, and I realized, Oh, wait. I’m actually a lot faster than him.”

Kissel got to the ball first and survived Bamford’s effort to run through him. Dow believes the Marshall defender was willing to get a red card to prevent a breakaway, but nothing Bamford tried worked.

Kissel was in.

Perhaps for the first time in his Vermont career, Barrett quit playing during a game. He and a handful of others just stopped in their tracks to stare as Kissel streaked toward the goal.

“We were watching like little kids,” Barrett said.

As soon as Kissel played the ball wide to his left around the approaching keeper, Barrett knew.

Holy shit, he said to himself.

‘OUR DEEPEST CONNECTION’

Max White wanted a hug. Maybe with Maxi Kissel, if he could get to him under the pile of players and coaches at the corner flag. Maybe with his mom, who had spent the championship game with the legion of Vermonters, boosters and boozers both, who had made the trip to Cary.

The 15-year-old wound up in the arms of Yaniv Bazini, and there’s a picture of it.

It is a gorgeous image, the two of them set against the dark night sky. Bazini’s hair is drenched from 95 minutes of thrilling soccer, and it looks like it might be starting to freeze. His face is a mask of raw emotion, his mouth wrenched in a way that suggests he might cry any second.

White’s head is buried in Bazini’s chest, the player’s large, angular hands cradling the boy more than grabbing him. White’s expression is visible in the embrace, and there is no doubt about the look in his eyes: wonder.

White first joined the Vermont

A shrewd student of the game, Max White held several gigabytes’ worth of UVM soccer data in his head.

men’s soccer team in spring 2020. In an announcement streamed online, Dow introduced the program’s latest key signing with a big smile.

“During the recruiting process,” Dow said, “the coaching staff became 100 percent confident that this player would make an immediate impact on our team.”

At the table in his family’s home in Richmond, seated between his parents, the midfielder smiled shyly. He wore a pink wool cap over his shoulder-length hair. With care, and maybe a tiny tremble, he scratched out his signature: Max White.

Dow wasn’t done.

“He holds the strongest values of our program,” he said of White, “tough, resilient, hardworking, disciplined and a family-first teammate.”

White would go on to score no goals or even play in a single game. Yet after his more than four years with the program,

additional surgeries to fortify his ankles and knees. There would be considerable travel for his specialized medical care. Chronic pain could be an issue.

Max’s mother, Brooke, told Dow that there would come a time when her boy would have to give up soccer. The physical demands and risks of a contact sport played on uneven surfaces would pose too great a threat.

White joined the team in the earliest months of the pandemic. The coaches and players met only virtually. Brooke wanted her son to be able to join the online team meetings.

Dow told her the meetings could be dark, the sidelined players beset by loneliness and confusion and anger.

“We want Max to see that,” she told Dow. White himself was marooned at home, unable to go out for fear of his health. He watched the players work out via Zoom from the couch at home.

His situation was unfortunate. But his company was wonderful.

“I wanted our players to know there was someone else struggling worse than them,” Dow said.

“That’s how the marriage came together,” Dow said of the partnership with White. “That’s where we found our deepest connection.”

As pandemic restrictions lifted over the next four years, in sideline snippets and locker room laughs, the relationship only blossomed further. White attended team meetings and practices, traveled on the road for away games, chipped in at summer camps run by the staff and players. At home games, the announcers at Virtue Field introduced him as part of the starting lineup.

it’s possible Dow and his players, for all their expectations and hopes for White’s contributions, might have underestimated his potential.

White was 10 years old when he signed. He joined UVM as part of a national program called Team IMPACT that, according to its mission statement, “connects children facing serious or chronic illnesses with college athletic teams.”

White, a guileless teenager with an athlete’s build and warm, welcoming eyes, lives with a rare variation of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects connective tissue throughout the body. It can cause a range of debilitating conditions and is especially hard on joints, often leading to mobility issues.

White had undergone surgeries prior to signing but had been able to keep playing soccer and basketball. Still, he would need

A shrewd student of the game, White holds the equivalent of several gigabytes’ worth of UVM soccer data in his head — records and rosters going back years; comebacks and goals, both famous and not; coaches; substitution rotations.

But he is also a shy, deeply observant boy, capable of arresting insights into the stuff of life.

“You meet him, and you are going to underestimate him,” Dow said. “And then he is just going to say something so profound.”

The surgeries did not stop. White was away from the team during recoveries. Players would text him, and he’d unfailingly write them back with thanks. If he ever complained, no one can remember it.

And then, a couple years ago, White’s youth soccer career ended. Dow said he often would see White on the bench with the injured players, looking out at the game they loved, stolen from them for a week, a season, forever. Dow’s heart would crack.

Yaniv Bazini hugging Max White

By design or accident, White became closest with those injured players. Maybe it’s because they just had more opportunities to talk and kill time together. Or maybe because they understood each other’s hurt and lasting hope.

Connor Thompson was one of those injured players. Thompson, 21, arrived from Kennebunk, Maine, in fall 2021. In the weeks leading up to the season, he’d begun to suffer pain and fatigue in his calves. He’d run during warm-ups and suddenly feel as if he were doing a marathon.

“I was practically crying during practice,” he said.

Thompson toughed out eight games and eventually had surgery for something called compartment syndrome, a tightening of the muscles in his legs that restricts blood flow. Then he dislocated both knees.

That was year one.

Of course, Thompson knew who White was. He’d always been impressed how a kid his age could hang so comfortably in a locker room with 21- and 22-yearolds. But White’s emotional maturity was remarkable.

White was not a mascot, nor a community service box to be checked by players looking to feel better about themselves. He held wisdom, and tactical insights to boot. He was a teammate in every sense.

“Good substitution,” he’d sometimes say to Dow after a game.

When Thompson dislocated his knee again in his junior season, he had a surgery not unlike some procedures White had undergone. They compared notes, talked endlessly about their second love, basketball. White was still able to play — the even surface and, in theory, less contact made it a tolerable risk.

Thompson went to see a couple of White’s games — he played both point and shooting guard positions.

“He reminds me a lot of my two younger brothers,” Thompson said. “His vision, his passing, it’s very good. And he just works so hard.”

Thompson said he has never looked up the specifics of White’s condition. He knows it’s serious. To probe further might feel like a violation of White’s privacy.

“I would just probably cry,” he said.

Everyone was crying with laughter and delight in the locker room in Cary after the team secured the title. The team had created a giant bracket for the NCAA tournament and slapped the UVM insignia on the winner’s slot of each round they advanced. Now, it was time to put it on the champion’s slot.

Max Murray, the fifth-year senior, started the chant.

“Max White! Max White! Max White!” Out of the corner of the room, White emerged. He slapped it on. The place went berserk. ➆

Who’s hiring?

Fireworks at the College Cup

Connor Thompson

food+drink

and catering business from Stonecutter Spirits, the Middlebury craft distillery that she and her ex-husband founded in 2013 and sold in 2020. Since then, most of her public o erings have involved themed, multicourse destination dinners with full beverage pairings and price tags of close to $200 per person.

The company’s 2024 move into its ﬁrst permanent headquarters has permitted Stewart and her team to expand their calendar by hosting more frequent, less expensive ticketed events and à la carte pop-ups at the two-story Adventure Dinner Clubhouse at 70 Roosevelt Highway. After major renovations and a busy summer and fall on the road, they threw their ﬁrst Clubhouse events in October — Stewart’s favorite “spooky season.”

Spirit of Adventure

In its new Colchester clubhouse, Sas Stewart’s event and catering business invites more people to the party BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

One gooey reason motivated many of the guests at the recent Adventure Dinner Clubhouse Fondue Feast to plunk down $82.50 in advance for the ticketed dinner in Colchester.

“I solely showed up for the cheese,” said Caitlyn Bain, 27, of Essex.

“It was his birthday, and he loves cheese,” Essex resident Kat Yun, 36, said of her dining companion, Andy Hagyari, 48, who lives in Williston.

“In the middle of January, who doesn’t love fondue?” asked Matt Kasvinsky, 56, of South Duxbury, clearly posing a rhetorical question.

As their 49 fellow diners trickled into the Clubhouse for the single-seating, communal dinner, Kasvinsky and his wife, Heather, sat in the ebony-toned library under a wall of shelves ﬁlled with vintage cookbooks and other collectibles. Matt sipped an espresso martini ($14) from the busy cash bar while Heather enjoyed a dirty martini ($15) and predinner snacks.

“This is super fun,” Heather, 47, said. “There’s cheese balls!”

Heather, a self-identiﬁed foodie, said she had “obsessively” followed Adventure

FOOD LOVER?

Dinner on social media for several years but this was the ﬁrst event the couple had attended. She was enticed by the company’s Instagram feed, which has featured such events as a steakhouse barn dinner on a grass-fed cattle farm in Charlotte and a two-mile leaf-peeping trek and progressive dinner of ﬁre-cooked dishes at Rupert’s Merck Forest & Farmland Center.

Such offerings seemed a little too costly and involved for the couple, who have two sons, Heather said. The Fondue Feast felt more a ordable and approachable, although it was still a special-occasion outing for the Kasvinskys, who were celebrating their 18th anniversary.

Five years ago, Adventure Dinner owner Sas Stewart spun o her events

Beyond the practical advantages of having their own building, the move marks a milestone for the previously nomadic company and its 41-year-old founder. “It feels like coming home,” Stewart said. She started Adventure Dinner by hosting annual events with guest chefs and the help of friends lugging tables. The business now supports six employees, including a full-time executive chef, Eric Hodet, and an operations manager — aka “party captain” — Lauren Hayes. Dozens more part-timers help run 100-plus events a year, roughly half of which are open to the public. The Adventure Dinner email newsletter goes to about 7,500 people.

One of the two mid-January events I attended, the ticketed fondue dinner, showcased the well-oiled machine that Adventure Dinner has built. A more impromptu pop-up the next night surprised the team with its popularity and tested its capacity, providing lessons for future similar events. Both indicated that people are happy to have a fun, immersive new venue to escape into.

Adventure Dinner’s low-proﬁle home, tucked beside Vermont Bagel, boasts a large commercial kitchen and three rooms that, combined, can host 75 guests at once. The building is probably best known to longtime locals as the original Junior’s Italian, though its most recent tenant, bevo catering, operated there for 13 years. Bevo still uses part of the building while in the process of relocating to Stine Orchard in Monkton.

Caitlyn Bain, Robert Davis, Teresa Davis and Adrian Richey at Adventure Dinner’s Fondue Feast

From left: Sas Stewart, Lauren Hayes and Eric Hodet

SIDEdishes

SERVING UP FOOD NEWS

BY JORDAN BARRY • jbarry@sevendaysvt.com

Burlington’s Wilder Wines to Move, Open Wine Bar Downtown

Four years after opening WILDER WINES on Cherry Street in Burlington, SIPHA LAM will move her tiny bottle shop and open a wine bar a few blocks away this spring.

Still called Wilder Wines, the new dual-purpose spot will take over the big-windowed retail space beside Common Deer at 210 College Street, most recently home to the Tinkering Turtle toy shop. There, Lam will have room to increase her retail selection, expand her 150-person wine club and add a bar — something she’s been looking to do for a few years, she told Seven Days

Lam, 35, grew up in Burlington and was determined to keep her business downtown, she said. The current Wilder Wines shop will remain open until mid-April, when she’ll move everything to the new location for a May launch.

The 25-seat European-style wine bar will o er “a mix of everything,” Lam said, with eight by-the-glass options to start and a 50- to 75-bottle list with a broad range of prices. “And maybe fun specials like a lambrusco spritz,” she added. “I’m all about a lambrusco spritz.”

The new retail shop will be larger but not “overwhelming,” Lam said, and the popular $20-or-less shelf will stay. The extra room will let her dedicate

entire sections to speciﬁc regions and expand non-wine market o erings.

The wine bar’s small selection of food o erings will include snacks from Vermont producers, plus potato chips, tinned ﬁsh and olives. The big, bright space will allow Lam to host Vermont winemakers for tastings and educational events, she said. Eventually, she’ll o er classes.

“We’ve built a loyal community over the past four years, and I think those people will continue to show up,” she said. “I want it to be where you meet your friends after work or where you come after dinner for a glass of wine and some cheese.”

Vermont Chefs, Restaurateurs and Bar Named 2025 James Beard Award Semiﬁnalists

The James Beard Foundation announced the semiﬁnalists for its 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards on Wednesday, January 22. Several Vermont chefs and a bar were

CONNECT

Sipha Lam in front of Wilder Wines’ future home

Spirit of Adventure

Guests enter through the library, which is anchored by the bar and serves as a welcome area. Stewart, a Michigan native who earned a master’s in sustainable planning and development from New York City’s Pratt Institute, thinks a lot about how people interact with spaces and how to design them for richer interactions and connection.

Stewart said her graduate studies taught her things such as how to calculate the weight of a roof garden with soil and plants in a rainstorm, but what really interested her was “how do I get people to participate in the roof garden?”

She described the library’s décor as “dark academia,” which she called “my heart and soul.” In January, the two-floor space was still bedazzled with holiday sparkle and frosted pine trees. Communal tables held candelabras and vintage lamps throwing soft light.

“I wanted it to be somewhere when you walk through the doors, you are transported to someplace else,” Stewart said.

Fondue was a natural fit for Adventure Dinner’s Cozy + Candlelit series, which also includes an upcoming sold-out ramen night, a five-course Italian dinner, another almost sold-out fondue night and a pi(e) night on March 14, or Pi Day. All are priced at $82.50 per person, including taxes but not drinks or tip.

For that amount, fondue night guests got cocktail hour nibbles and a first seated course of kale and cabbage salad satisfyingly crunchy with apple, cucumber, celery and savory-sweet seeded granola under a charred scallion dressing. The salad was followed by bottomless pots of velvety Jasper Hill Farm cheese fondue, accompanied by platters loaded with charred broccoli florets, roasted delicata squash rings and Brussels sprouts, fingerling potatoes, seared local mushrooms, focaccia cubes, tiny tart pickles, apple chunks, and marinated steak tips.

The cash bar offered a small selection of beer and wine and a compelling list of cocktails, including equally good nonalcoholic choices, such as the Island Spritz made with an NA amaro and cinnamon-passion fruit syrup ($11).

At the group tables, to which guests were assigned randomly upon arrival, food was served family-style, and conversation flowed as smoothly as the fondue. Servers circulated, replenishing platters and taking drink orders.

The evening wrapped up with a sweet finale of chocolate-dipped pineapple

presented theatrically on skewers stabbed into purple cabbages, in the library where everything had started.

Teresa and Robert Davis of North Ferrisburgh said they loved the whole experience, which they had booked with a gift certificate. “Through this little tiny entrance, the magic is inside,” said Teresa, 62, adding that the evening felt far more special than a good meal out.

Their fellow diners represented a mix of ages and backgrounds. “Our table was vibing,” Teresa said.

Among the Davises’ tablemates was 27-yearold Bain of Essex, who had joked that she came just for the cheese. More than delighted with her first Adventure Dinner, she said she already planned to attend another.

with Jamaican goat curry and charred scallions ($10).

RSVPs were requested but not required, and Stewart was uncertain how many people would venture out for fancy hot dogs and drinks on a frigid January night, she said before the event. Based on a similar December pop-up, the team anticipated selling about 100 franks, although RSVPs had reached almost that number by the morning of the event.

I WANTED IT TO BE SOMEWHERE WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH THE DOORS, YOU ARE TRANSPORTED TO SOMEPLACE ELSE.

SAS STEWART

While the Fondue Feast went smoothly, the Tinis & Weenies Pop-Up that took place the following night was a little rockier.

One of a few casual, non-ticketed happenings that Adventure Dinner hosts at the Clubhouse, the pop-up promised a menu of martinis (from $15) plus nonalcoholic versions (from $8); baskets of fries (from $6); and kale salad with dried cranberries and pepita brittle ($12). The roster of weenies ranged from a classic hot dog topped with sauerkraut and Russian dressing ($8) to one garnished

At 6:30 p.m., the line to order at the bar snaked across the entryway, and people circled, looking for free seats. Customers gobbled through the 100 hot dogs before the night was half over, so Stewart dispatched a team member to buy more, advising customers that they could order only drinks, salad and fries in the meantime. The food and drink runners were in the weeds. Those guests who chose to wait it out seemed happy to be there, but at least one table had to wait for the hot dog restock after another hungry crew mistakenly claimed its order.

“We kind of reached a level we hadn’t before,” Stewart said ruefully a few days later, “a level that I was like, Oh, my God, I’m afraid.”

The point-of-sale system Adventure Dinner uses does not tally guests, but Stewart estimated that over the course of

the four-hour event, the count reached 125 to 150.

Stewart is no stranger to unexpected complications during events on the road, which involve the schlepping of ingredients, culinary equipment, tables, chairs and tablewares, not to mention the variables of cooking in different venues. But events at the new home base were supposed to be simpler to manage — one reason they can cost less than the far-flung, grander adventures.

As Adventure Dinner executive chef Hodet, 33, likes to say, “We’re more than happy to load up the truck, but we’re happier not to.”

Stewart was gratified that so many people were excited for Tinis & Weenies, she said, and the team learned a lot from the experience. For two Love Bar pop-ups planned for February 6 and 8, they will schedule more staff and take other measures to ease the flow of guests and orders.

“If we’re lucky enough to have as many people come out again, then we’ll be ready,” Stewart said.

For now, she’s reluctant to require or cap RSVPs for this kind of spur-of-the-moment event, which she hopes will introduce more people to Adventure Dinner.

“I want it to be like, ‘Just come by and see what we do here,’” Stewart said. ➆

INFO

Adventure Dinner Clubhouse, 70 Roosevelt Hwy., Colchester. Find pop-up info on Instagram (@adventuredinner) or sign up for the newsletter at adventuredinner.com.

Some fondue action at the Adventure Dinner Clubhouse

SIDEdishes

food+drink

recognized in the ﬁrst round of the prestigious awards.

CARA CHIGAZOLA TOBIN and ALLISON GIBSON of Burlington’s HONEY ROAD and the GREY JAY made the semiﬁnalist list for Outstanding Restaurateur, a nationwide category. White River Junction cocktail bar WOLF TREE was named in the nationwide Outstanding Bar category.

Two Vermont chefs made the list for the regional Best Chef: Northeast category: AVERY BUCK of MAY DAY in Burlington and CHARLIE MENARD, owner of CANTEEN CREEMEE in Waitsﬁeld.

Menard was surprised when Seven Days reached out for a comment on Wednesday morning — he hadn’t heard the news. “I was like, ‘Nah, this is fake,’” he said with a laugh. “I thought I left that world a long time ago.”

Formerly executive chef of the INN AT ROUND BARN FARM, Menard opened his casual snack shack in spring 2016. Canteen Creemee is known for over-thetop versions of its namesake Vermont treat, such as the Bad Larry: a maple creemee loaded with maple crystals, drizzle, cookies and ﬂoss.

But “it’s not just a place to get a quintessential maple creemee,” the chef said. With savory entrées such as braised lamb shank on the menu alongside burgers and fried chicken, “We’re doing a lot of the same work a ﬁne-dining restaurant is doing: sautéing and braising and roasting,” Menard continued. “At the end of the day, the actual plate it’s served on isn’t that much of a qualiﬁer, I guess.”

The ﬁrst thing Buck did when he heard the news was text his cooks at May Day. “It’s all them,” he said. “I push hard, and it’s for moments like this. It’s surreal.”

Buck took over the kitchen at the

Old North End restaurant in July 2023, having already worked at HEN OF THE WOOD, DOC PONDS, BURLINGTON BEER and the GREY JAY. May Day’s opening chef, MOJO HANCY-DAVIS, was recognized in the same category in 2023.

On Wednesday night, Buck cooked a special ﬁve-course May Day x Hen of the Wood pairing dinner in Hen’s Butcher Room. Afterward, he said, “We’re gonna go to T. Ruggs [Tavern] and have some Guinness.”

Wolf Tree, White River Junction’s must-visit cocktail bar, recently celebrated its ﬁfth anniversary; the entire sta has been there more than two years, owner MAX OVERSTROM-COLEMAN told Seven Days.

He’s friends with Tunbridge native IVY MIX, one of whose Brooklyn bars, Leyenda, was also recognized in this year’s Outstanding Bar category.

“Two little Vermont origin stories,” Overstrom-Coleman said — and two of just three bars in the Northeast and 20 across the country to receive this honor.

“When you open a bar in Vermont, you don’t do it for notoriety,” he continued. “You do it to be part of a community. But to feel a little love from a larger audience is pretty wonderful.”

Chef NISACHON “RUNG” MORGAN of SAAP restaurant in Randolph won Vermont’s ﬁrst James Beard Foundation Award in the Best Chef: Northeast category in 2022. In 2024, Vermont was represented by two ﬁnalists: Chigazola Tobin in the Best Chef: Northeast category and the cocktail bar at BARR HILL’s Montpelier distillery in the nationwide Outstanding Bar category.

This year’s semiﬁnalists will be whittled into a short list of nominees on Wednesday, April 2. Award winners will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago on June 16. ➆

UP FOOD NEWS « P.35

Bad Larry maple creemee at Canteen Creemee in 2019

Sweet and Savory

Richmond is not in my neck of the woods — from Vergennes, it’s a classic “you can’t get there from here.” But a friend from Jericho is my Sweet Simone’s delivery driver; he rarely visits without the bakery’s filled croissants or cupcakes.

It was recently my turn to visit him, so I stopped to check out Sweet Simone’s expansion. On Bridge Street since 2015, the bakery known for elaborate cakes and laminated pastries added a savory side in the adjacent storefront in October, with pizza, sandwiches and Italian-leaning specialty provisions.

BAKERIES

I barely had time to browse the shelves before my lunch was ready.

A hefty rectangular slice of pizza, topped with rich braised beef and spinach ($4.75), was more than enough. My husband’s Italian sandwich ($14) was stu ed with sopressata, coppa, mortadella and provolone. It had all the right zing, with pepperoncini and dressed arugula on a housemade baguette. (Gluten-free options from Montpelier’s Bonté Bakery are available for both sandwiches and pizza.)

The Italian-heavy menu is inspired by Curtis’ heritage and New Jersey upbringing. Eggplant and chicken cutlet sandwiches have been popular, as has the sub that’s based on her mom’s meatball recipe.

“It’s what I grew up with,” she said. I went out of my way for those meatballs last week. A late-afternoon stop yielded six ﬁst-size polpette ($3 each), as well as linguine with cooking instructions in Italian and a jar of extra sauce.

Richmond’s Sweet Simone’s expands with lunch and provisions

STORY & PHOTOS BY JORDAN BARRY • jbarry@sevendaysvt.com

Savory items aren’t new at Sweet Simone’s, though they’ve morphed over the years — sometimes just one sandwich and salad per day, sometimes an entire lunch menu, and for a stint starting in 2017, full-on dinners on Monday nights. They’ve always done well, owner Lisa Curtis said, but the kitchen was at capacity.

“Everything we were doing was bakery, bakery, bakery,” she said. “In the back corner, we had one savory guy pumping out some amazing stu .”

IT’S WHAT I GREW UP WITH.

LISA CURTIS

Now, “savory guy” Ethan Chamberlain and a small team have their own kitchen. A third the size of the bakery, the store has shelves full of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, tinned ﬁsh, wine and snacks lining the right wall, leading to deli cases in the back.

When designing the narrow layout, it seemed as if customers might find themselves in a “New York City-style squeeze-past-people situation,’” Curtis said. But the annex is roomier than she expected, and customers can sit in the attached bakery. It’s taking some time for regulars to find their way to the right spot to order a sandwich and for Curtis to spread the word that sliced-to-order meats and cheeses — as well as fresh fish and oysters delivered by Wood Mountain Fish — are now on o er.

Curtis said she’d taught customers what to expect at Sweet Simone’s, so “now I have to train them again.”

Another change: Sweet Simone’s sandwiches are no longer made in advance but can be ordered online. I was already in Richmond when I decided to stop, so I skipped that step.

Other than Sundays, the new store stays open later to capture last-minute dinner provisioners such as me — until 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and until 4 p.m. on Saturday. One bonus: The bakery’s leftovers move over to the top of the deli case when it closes at 2 p.m., if you’re also after a sneaky peanut butter-chocolate chip cookie.

Curtis plans to keep hours steady for the ﬁrst year, to let customers settle in to a new routine. She’ll keep spicing things up, though, and not in an exclusively Italian way. Customers may ﬁnd Portuguese, French and Spanish specialties in the case, or soy sauce, ponzu and rice vinegar on the shelves. She’s also working on a liquor license, with Aperol spritzes, limoncello and sangria in mind.

Once that’s in hand, one night a week the team will o er “Aperitivo at Sweet Simone’s,” the casual drinks and snacks that are a predinner Italian tradition. That idea was inspired by Curtis’ visit to Italy last April.

“We’ll see if it catches on,” she said. She might have to train customers again, but I’ll be among her eager students. ➆

INFO

Sweet Simone’s, 40-44 Bridge St., Richmond, 434-2253, sweetsimones.com

Pastries on the deli case

Braised beef and spinach slice

culture Romantic Chemistry

review: e Effect, Shaker Bridge eatre

BY ALEX BROWN • alex@sevendaysvt.com

If there were a side e ects disclosure for Shaker Bridge Theatre’s production of The Effect , it would warn viewers they might experience little blasts of dopamine from seeing something bold, funny, intimate, smart and energetic. It might also caution that Lucy Prebble’s 2012 play about a clinical drug trial has no right to churn up so much emotion while limiting its story to elemental statements about love, depression and the brain. To see the play is to puzzle out how it works and to slip into its vortex.

The setting is a clinic, and the set, from designer Craig Mowery, is a low, white circle that glows brightly when the light strikes it just so. It’s a ring around the two subjects of an experiment, but it’s far too slight to conﬁne them. If anything gets out of control — and the ring warns you that it will — emotions will break free.

The situation supplies all the conﬂict. Two subjects of a drug trial meet, banter, develop an attraction and fall in love. Each milestone matches a dosage increase, testing human tolerance for a new pharmaceutical designed to alter brain chemistry. The drug could be responsible for one subject’s hand tremors and giddiness. Or are those a side e ect of love? What’s behind the vivid interactions between two subjects under a doctor’s observation? True love or tweaked neurotransmitters?

In a powerfully focused production,

the play rises above its clever premise to intrigue viewers by exposing the core of human emotion. The E ect is a play of ideas but not a lecture. The concepts it explores all become events that spark both emotional reactions from the characters and the chance for engaged reﬂection from the audience.

These trial volunteers are paid to spend four weeks in a clinic while doctors monitor their responses to a new antidepressant. Tristan, who regularly does trials for extra money, is a flirty, restless sensation seeker who bounces like a rubber ball. Connie is a thoughtful psychology student, skilled at impulse control and curious about pharmacology. Tristan acts on instinct while Connie is cerebral, making their early interactions a comic clash of behavior styles.

Lorna, the psychologist administering the trial, seems at ﬁrst to be a spoilsport who tries to keep the kids from cutting up while logging their heart rates. But Prebble has built a neatly structured four-hander, and Lorna is being supervised herself, by the pharma company’s psychiatrist, Toby. Tristan and Connie have just met, but

audience neatly to its ﬁnal equilibrium. In the closing moments, Prebble uses repetition to show the passage of time, but Coons smooths out its impact.

Susan Haefner, as Lorna, checks in on the trial subjects with expressionless eyes. Lorna’s tight lips never soften as Connie and Tristan test her authority. But her sti , scientiﬁc attitude is a thin layer above a deep past. Haefner is masterfully subtle at revealing Lorna’s depression, demonstrating its agony in a wrenching scene.

Tim Rush plays Toby, a doctor conﬁdent enough to joke about the brain while balancing a model of one in his palm. He delivers a complex monologue with potent dramatic clarity and appears unburdened by introspection until memories test his capacity for regret.

THEATER

Lorna and Toby have a long history; all four will be changed by the trial.

The play’s bright wit comes from the characters’ sharp perceptions. Essentially, emotion itself is the subject of the story. With characters overwhelmed by their feelings, the performers can employ enormous range. In this production they demonstrate it impressively, conveying the exuberance of love and the desolation of depression with power and nuance.

Director Bill Coons has chiseled the production down to a theatrical essence, eliminating props and relying on light, space and movement to intensify the work of the actors. Wearing identical spotless white clothes, the trial participants spend much of their time on the ﬂoor within the set’s stylized ring. The characters express themselves in actions, and no one can hide for long behind words.

The play unfolds without an intermission. Coons sets a vigorous pace while giving viewers time to collect their thoughts; to observe, in e ect, alongside the doctors. By contrast, the ending is rushed, and the play doesn’t carry the

The dynamic interactions between the trial subjects are soaked in unpredictability, conveying the radical power of a brand-new experience — exactly like the beginning of love. Haulston Mann plays Tristan as drawing on a bottomless reserve of charm, only to discover he wants to be dizzier than love ever made him before. As Connie, Sophia Grasso shows the character straining for balance before each new leap — she thinks before she acts but plunges anyway. The two actors work together with the daring of trapeze artists.

Shaker Bridge’s production is polished. Sound e ects heighten a sense of emotional danger, and the lighting is a clever mix of clinical neutrals spiked with outbursts of molten color or sharp shadows.

Defending his feelings, Tristan says, “I can tell the di erence between who I am and a side e ect.” Connie isn’t so sure. As Lorna grows concerned that a pell-mell romance may invalidate the trial, Toby observes her bias and is quick to reject any suggestion the drug isn’t delivering exactly what it was designed to do. Four people see what they want to see. In all cases, brain and body are responding to something, and each character wants the reason for the response to ﬁt their beliefs.

The audience can search along with them for the fuzzy line between the truth of a self and the facts of a purely chemical reaction. We all want feelings to mean something, especially when they get as big as these. Like the doctors, we study two people like specimens and ask that immense question: Is this real love? Can I trust what I feel? ➆

INFO

e Effect by Lucy Prebble, directed by Bill Coons, produced by Shaker Bridge eatre. rough February 9: ursday through Saturday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, February 1, 2:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2:30 p.m., at Briggs Opera House in White River Junction. $20-45. shakerbridgetheatre.org

Tim Rush, Haulston Mann and Sophia Grasso in e Effect

Head Stretchers Society Short Films Celebrate Curiosity

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com

If you’re looking for a mind-blowing ﬁlm this weekend, head to a multiplex to see a blockbuster. But if expanding the way you see the world sounds more inviting, make your way to the Vermont International Film Foundation’s Burlington screening room on Friday, January 31, when the Head Stretchers Society presents seven short ﬁlms about Vermonters exploring wildly diverse pursuits.

ey include Burlington artist Clark Russell, who lives in “Riddleville,” the expansive installation he has created in his apartment from thousands of small objects; Hong Yu, who leaves the kitchen of her well-known Burlington dumpling shop to do tai chi in the park for the cameras; and Julie Silverman, the self-described “Lorax for the lake,” who sounds the alarm for the health of Lake Champlain.

e ﬁlms, screened together for the ﬁrst time, are designed to stretch viewers’ perceptions and imaginations. To learn is to be human, according to Head Stretchers Society cofounder Michael Jager. Babies innately try to understand the world around them. “From the moment we arrive, we’re curious,” Jager said. “But the world has a strange way of squelching curiosity.”

Less a club and more an ideology, the Head Stretchers Society was inspired by an Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. quote: “One’s mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions.” Remaining curious and continuing to learn makes people happier, Jager believes. e Head Stretchers, launched in 2020, set out to engage people rather than talk at them. Organizers planned to host events where those in attendance would participate in whatever work, craft or area of expertise the speaker introduced.

Eventually, the society planned to market the gatherings without specifying the activity to take place. “We would get to a point where you’d just know if you went to a Head Stretchers Society experience, it’s going to be something you maybe have never done before — and you’re going to be in it,” Jager said.

e society held one such event, then COVID-19 put a stop to in-person gatherings. Meanwhile, ﬁlmmaker Ryan Boera left New York, came home to Burlington and found space to edit in the nearly empty Maple Street ofﬁces of Solidarity of Unbridled Labour, the

brand design studio Jager founded. Hearing about the derailed Head Stretchers events, Boera asked Jager, “What if we ﬁlmed one?” “So we kind of shifted the expression of it, but not the intention of it,” Jager said.

Boera directed the first film. “ e Squirrel Wringer,” a five-minute work shot in black and white, features Williston resident Mike Isham as he works and talks about life as a fifth-generation farmer.

Besides Boera and Jager, directors include Chiara Hollender, Erika Senft Miller and Lukas Huffman. eir ﬁlms vary thematically, technically and in length, ranging between three and 12 minutes. One common denominator is that the seven subjects are all pillars of their communities, Boera said. “So it is a pastiche. It is a collage of where we live.”

Another thing the ﬁlms have in common: no budget. “ is is all just pure passion,” Jager said. ough the Head Stretchers plan to revive in-person events, they will continue to make ﬁlms. ree are in postproduction.

e films’ subjects collaborated with the directors, helping to determine how their stories are told. “Riddleville” creator Clark Russell said his art should speak for itself, so “ e Mayor of Riddleville” has no dialogue. e camera moves among the tall, narrow towers, crowded like miniature skyscrapers, where Russell has mounted intricate scenarios. Viewers see Russell holding his large metal wall sculptures as a “sound collage” that he helped create accompanies the art tour. Yu, proprietor of Hong’s Chinese Dumplings on Pearl Street in Burlington, drastically changed the direction of “ e Operatic Dumpling.” Boera had grown up eating Yu’s food, and he envisioned producing a sort of dumpling-making instructional video. But Yu didn’t want to be filmed cooking. “I love tai chi. Can we go do that?” Boera recalled her asking the film crew. “And we were like, OK, let’s see where this takes us.” ➆

INFO

Head Stretchers Society ﬁlm screenings, Friday, January 31, 7 p.m., at the Screening Room at Vermont International Film Foundation in Burlington. $20. vtiff.org

Car Talk

Touring Vermont SportsCar with founder Lance Smith

The parking lot at Vermont SportsCar in Milton, like most parking lots in the Green Mountain State, is ﬁlled with weathered Subarus. In the lobby are three sparkling-clean, souped-up ones, emblazoned with decals and logos. Unlike the vehicles outside, two of these have raced in rallies around the world, and one — the Airslayer — was driven by action sports legend Travis Pastrana. It jumped over a speedboat, a feat documented in a video with 68 million views.

Lance Smith founded Vermont SportsCar in a Colchester warehouse in 1988. He grew up in Chittenden County working on specialty cars, and his zeal for rallies sent him around the world. Rallying is an individually timed stage race against the clock on a variety of terrain types — dirt, snow, gravel, mud, asphalt — featuring obstacles such as water crossings, hills,

jumps and dips. For the past two decades, Vermont SportsCar has teamed up with Subaru of America to manage its racing division, Subaru Motorsports USA, which has dominated the rallying motorsport, racking up 18 national championships.

In 2018, Vermont SportsCar opened its $12 million, 75,000-square-foot facility in Milton. Its eight work bays resemble a gleaming modern art gallery, with high ceilings and spotless ﬂoors. Sixtyfive employees design, engineer and assemble Subarus for competitions and stunt videos, which garner millions of online views. Because no rallies are held in Vermont, the company has kept a low proﬁle locally.

Why did you feature this business?

Back in 2019, I shot a video featuring Sports Car Club of Vermont’s Ice Time Trials on frozen Lake Champlain at Malletts Bay. It was incredibly exciting watching the drivers navigate the icy course at top speeds. So when I heard that a local company built rally cars in Milton, I had to see it for myself.

Are you a gearhead?

I know nothing about cars. As long as my hybrid gets me to video shoots without getting stuck, I am happy. So I did a lot of research to understand rallying and Vermont SportsCar. How did a small local company start with $2,000 and end up conquering the motorsport?

infectious: He has devoted his life to elevating the motorsport. So even though I am not into cars, I was excited to learn about his story and the wild ride Vermont SportsCar has taken.

Who did you meet?

It was a real treat to run into father-andson duo Jonathan and Steele Funk in the gift shop. They live in North Carolina, but Jonathan grew up in Middlebury, and they were visiting for the holidays. Jonathan has been following Smith and Vermont SportsCar for years and is proud of their achievements.

Five-year-old Steele wants to be a race car driver when he is a kid, but not when he grows up. I was confused by this, so he clariﬁed: When he is older he hopes to own Vermont SportsCar — or at least work there.

Jonathan has built two road-racing cars and purchased parts for them from the Milton company. On the day I met the Funks, they bought a remote-control race car that traveled home with them to North Carolina. I heard they have already driven it all over their neighborhood. Meeting this pair helped me better understand the intense rally culture.

Did you hitch a ride?

I was hoping to get a lift in a rally car, or at least hear a car engine revving, but that didn’t happen. But I have covered a number of races in Vermont over the years: Thunder Road in Barre (2009), NEK Snowmobile Drag Racing in Lyndonville (2012) and Redneck Lawnmower Racing at the Bradford Fair (2012). I caught a ride in the pace car at Thunder Road, which was thrilling.

What is it like working at Vermont SportsCar?

In the latest episode of “Stuck in Vermont,” Seven Days senior multimedia producer Eva Sollberger toured the Milton facility with Smith. Subaru and rally enthusiasts can schedule free tours on Fridays.

Sollberger spoke with Seven Days about ﬁlming the episode.

Seven Days’ Ken Picard wrote a 2019 piece about Vermont SportsCar that gives a lot of the details of its tumultuous history — it hasn’t always been a smooth ride. And there is a series of videos on the Subaru YouTube channel called “Launch Control” featuring the company.

Smith’s passion for rallying is

When I asked Smith what he was most proud of, he said it was providing solid jobs with beneﬁts for his sta . One of those employees is Simon Kribstock. He grew up in Randolph and studied automotive technology at Vermont Technical College. He was a big fan of six-time Rally America champion Travis Pastrana, and Kribstock’s goal was to get a job at Vermont SportsCar. For more than 10 years, he has helped create the cars that Pastrana drives.

Kribstock was also a member of the Vermont Air National Guard and worked on the F-35 ﬁghter jets. He smiled and said, “I like things that are loud and go fast, I guess.”

Episode 733: Vermont SportsCar

Lance Smith

Brandy Melville Opens on Church Street, Sparking Controversy

STORY & PHOTO BY HANNAH FEUER • hfeuer@sevendaysvt.com

Brandy Melville, the fast-fashion retailer that touts “one-size-fits-most” California-girl clothing, opened a store on the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington on January 18, sparking backlash among locals who find the brand at odds with their values.

The garments come in a single size, typically the equivalent of a small or extra small.

The multinational chain was the subject of the HBO documentary Brandy Hellville & the Cult of Fast Fashion, which covers the company’s alleged discriminatory hiring practices and exploitation of teenage girls’ insecurities for profit.

According to the documentary, CEO Stephan Marsan allegedly went out of his way to hire thin, white storefront employees, while people of color were relegated to the stock room. Workers were required to take photos of themselves to send to Marsan, who kept them in a folder on his phone. The teenage employees would reportedly be fired if he disapproved of their appearance.

Senior executives reportedly sent

pornographic messages and Hitler memes in a group chat called “Brandy Melville gags.” One executive alleged that Marsan closed a Brandy Melville store in Toronto because it was frequented by people of color.

The documentary also highlights the environmental toll of fast fashion globally, taking viewers to Ghana, which has become the West’s dumping ground for roughly 15 million used garments each week. The film argues that Brandy Melville’s rapid production of cheap, trendy clothing contributes to this waste, alleging that executives would buy teenage employees’ outfits off their backs in order to copy the designs and reproduce the clothing for Brandy Melville.

On Burlington’s subreddit, some users expressed disbelief that the controversial brand would set up shop in socially conscious Vermont. In an email to Seven Days, Church Street Marketplace director Kara Alnasrawi wrote that the buildings on Church Street are private property and the City of Burlington has no legal control over private lease agreements.

Jericho resident Heather Girard was excited for a fun day of shopping with her 13-year-old daughter and her friend earlier this month. But when they walked into the new Brandy Melville store, things took a turn.

“I’m thinking, This can’t be right. There’s no such thing as one size on all clothing in a store,” Girard said. “That’s just not normal.”

None of the clothes fit her daughter, who ended up crying in the dressing room.

Disturbed, Girard googled Brandy Melville and was disgusted by what she found. She ushered her daughter out of the store.

Employees at Burlington’s Brandy Melville store declined to comment to Seven

Days, citing a clause in their employment contracts that forbids them from speaking with journalists.

The store is located in the space that used to host Black Diamond, which sold climbing, skiing and mountain sports gear. It offers a variety of cropped shirts, miniskirts, loungewear and more in a palette of muted colors such as white, navy and gray. The word “Vermont” appears on the front of several shirts. An American flag and a maroon “Harvard 1923” flag hang inside.

Burlington’s Brandy Melville appears to be attracting business. The line to enter on opening day stretched far down the block. ➆

Brandy Melville

Shot on iPhone

BY HANNAH FEUER

On a recent Saturday night, about 70 people packed into the Spiral House Art Collective on Burlington’s Church Street to watch a series of short ﬁlms. The eclectic lineup included “Sicky Sick,” a video analysis of the comic book ODY-C — a gender-bent retelling of The Odyssey set in outer space; “Flood Control,” a satirical dive into one character’s desperate (and doomed) attempts to stop the Winooski River from ﬂooding; and “First Light,” six minutes of circles pulsating hypnotically.

This is Mothership Monthly Film Fest, an amateur filmmaking competition for which no movie is too zany or abstract. Burlington resident Dillon Tanner, 32, has been hosting the fest at Spiral House on the first Saturday of every month since June 2023. The only rules: Films must be under seven minutes and created in less than a month. Tanner hopes the accessible format will spark local interest in filmmaking.

“A lot of the short ﬁlmmaking that happens now is debuted online, and all your interactions happen over Instagram or YouTube,” Tanner said. “With this, you get to sit down and watch it with a real group of people — which is way more fun.”

The festival’s name comes from the former moniker of the second-ﬂoor venue, Mothership VT, which operated as a community center and party venue. The Spiral House Art Collective now hosts a wide range of events in the space, from an “anarchist skill share” to yoga.

Each Mothership film fest kicks o with a live act, from standup comedy to pole dancing paired with live harp music. Then the movies are screened, each of them exploring a monthly one-word theme, such as “afterlife,” “sour” and “blue.” (January’s theme was “flashback.”) Audience members vote for their favorite, and filmmakers participate in a Q&A session while the votes are counted.

Nearly all the featured ﬁlmmakers work with no budget and shoot on iPhones, Tanner said, giving the ﬁlms a YouTube-style aesthetic that prioritizes creative storytelling over polished technique. The DIY spirit is also one reason Tanner decided to host the fest monthly.

“It’s a nice in-between where you have enough time to actually make something but not enough time to overthink it,” Tanner said. “Everyone that’s made something has had to come through that same energy, like, Fuck, I gotta put this together in, like, a really short amount of time.”

Ryan Siegmann, a 32-year-old preschool teacher in Burlington, has submitted a film at every Mothership event since the fest’s inception. He described his January submission, “Sicky Sick,” as “just me being delirious and reading a comic book.” He won the first-ever fest with his short film “Sea Skeleton,” which explores the deeper meaning behind a game of mermaids Siegmann plays with the 3-year-old he babysits. Siegmann said he was drawn to the accessibility of the fest.

“I saw the ﬂyer, and I was like, Wow, I’ve never done this before,” he said. “It looks really amateur, the stakes are low, and it’s a really welcoming environment.”

Other winning films have included “Fluting by Bike,” which captures ﬁlmmaker Deborah Kraft playing recorder at various stops along her 2,000-mile bike tour in Chile; “Driftwood,” Marina Khananayev’s short documentary about a man who creates art from driftwood he collects on the shores of Seneca Lake in New York; and “Little Miss Most Dexterous Toes,” a two-minute video starring “Toemelia,” in which someone bakes cookies using just their feet. The ﬁ lm is surprisingly mesmerizing.

Tanner, who works by day as a freelance photographer and videographer, has submitted a number of his own short ﬁlms to the fest. He’s also the creator of the feature-length documentary Roland & Mary: A Winter of Towing in the Northeast Kingdom, about St. Johnsbury towing company Roland’s Wrecker Service. It appeared in Vermont Public’s local ﬁlm series “Made Here.”

But Mothership Monthly Film Fest is most popular with more rookie cinematographers, such as January’s winning ﬁlmmaker, Robert Langellier. The 33-year-old University of Vermont graduate student said he and his friend Matthias Sirch shot “Flood Control” on an iPhone and assembled the footage using a free version of the editing software DaVinci Resolve.

In the satirical short, Langellier throws tiny rocks into the Winooski River in an attempt to build a dam. When that doesn’t pan out, he digs with a tiny shovel in hopes of constructing a canal. The futile attempts to change the river’s course are set to melodramatic music.

Though excited to win the fest — and the prize of a pool-noodle “sculpture” — Langellier said the highlight of the night was hearing his ﬁlm elicit laughter from the crowd.

“I love that this is so grassroots and so accessible to ordinary people like me,” Langellier said. “I’ve never seen a ﬁlm festival like this before.” ➆

INFO

Mothership Monthly Film Fest, Saturday, February 1, and the ﬁrst Saturday of every month, 8 p.m., at Spiral House Art Collective in Burlington. $10. Learn more on Instagram: @ mothershipmonthlyﬁlmfest.

— BRENDA UELAND JOURNALIST, EDITOR

on screen

The Brutalist ★★★★★

At last, Vermonters have a chance to see the winner of the Venice International Film Festival’s Silver Lion and the Golden Globe Award for Best Drama. With 10 Academy Award nominations, director Brady Corbet’s immigrant story is a safe bet for your Oscar pool.

But will locals hasten to the Savoy Theater in Montpelier, the Majestic 10 in Williston or Essex Cinemas to catch The Brutalist before the Oscars? If the film’s three-and-a-half-hour run time puts you o , bear in mind that it includes a 15-minute intermission.

The deal

1947. Hungarian Jewish couple László (Adrien Brody) and Erzsébet (Felicity Jones) Tóth have been forcibly separated by the war. While Erzsébet shelters in Europe with their young niece (Ra ey Cassidy), László manages to get passage to the U.S. In Pennsylvania, he takes a job making furniture for his cousin (Alessandro Nivola), who has married an American and assimilated.

Deeply isolated, László corresponds with Erzsébet and struggles to fund the heroin addiction he acquired after an injury. He’s a Bauhaus-trained architect who designed public buildings in Budapest, but those skills are of little use now — until the son (Joe Alwyn) of a wealthy industrialist hires László to renovate his father’s library as a surprise gift.

Self-made patriarch Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce) doesn’t like surprises. He chases László away. Then, fancying himself a connoisseur of the arts, Van Buren realizes what he has on his hands and offers his patronage to the nowunhoused architect.

Living in Van Buren’s guest house, commissioned by him to build a monumental community center, László ﬁnally has the powerful connections he needs to reunite his family. But at what price?

Will you like it?

I went into The Brutalist with memories of being disappointed by Corbet’s 2018 breakout feature, Vox Lux. Like this one, that ﬁlm was cowritten with Mona Fastvold, supplemented ﬁction with found material such as news footage and made

magniﬁcent vistas — such as an Italian marble quarry — he keeps us watchful and on edge, much like his protagonist.

Like There Will Be Blood, The Brutalist revolves around a series of confrontations between two archetypal American characters, here an artist and a capitalist. Both have nuances that make them compelling: László is sensitive and talented but also sometimes irascible and feckless, while Van Buren is brutish and entitled but also sentimental and insecure.

Brody and Pearce do full justice to these roles, their anti-chemistry lighting up the screen. Jones also more than holds her own, giving Erzsébet a ﬁerce, articulate determination that complements her husband’s quieter stubbornness. When the protagonists of A Real Pain (see sidebar) speak with reverence of their Polish refugee grandmother, one imagines she might have been a little like this.

Sure, when you strip The Brutalist down to its essence, the message isn’t subtle. One might even call it a creative’s John Wick: a fantasy of vengeance on every moneyman who ever tried to water down your vision. The use of the La Bionda song “One for You, One for Me” in the end credits drives that point home, echoing the old movie industry saw “One for them [the studio], one for me [the artist].”

big statements about America. But the voice-over narration of Vox Lux rendered its messaging hopelessly heavy-handed. The movie was an ambitious attempt to unite documentary relevance with dramatic immediacy, but — for me, anyway — nothing about it worked.

The Brutalist is the opposite — everything works. There’s no narration, and the dialogue is naturalistic and sometimes downright brilliant. The performances are big, mostly in a good way. Most importantly, Corbet immerses us in the Tóths’ plight from the very ﬁrst scene and uses bold visual and stylistic choices to keep us riveted all the way through.

The movie was shot in VistaVision, a higher-resolution widescreen format invented in the 1950s. While we can’t see The Brutalist in IMAX locally, its vivid, vintage look still justifies a theatrical outing.

In the early scenes, Corbet conveys the chaos of postwar Europe by keeping the action very close up, avoiding establishing shots. We don’t know László is shipboard until he gets his ﬁrst glimpse of the Statue of Liberty — and even then, he sees it at an angle that is as jarring and disorienting as Daniel Blumberg’s score. Up to that moment, the architect hasn’t been sure he’s safe. But is he, really? Even when Corbet eventually unfurls wide,

At this point in history, however, it’s hard to dispute the relevance and power of a ﬁlm about how capitalism tramples on art and America doesn’t welcome outsiders. Like László’s designs, The Brutalist combines brute force and elegance into a structure built to stand the test of time.

MARGOT HARRISON margot@sevendaysvt.com

IF YOU LIKE THIS, TRY…

VOX LUX (2018; Tubi, rentable): Corbet’s previous effort, about a teen singer who rockets to stardom after witnessing a school shooting, does feature a standout Natalie Portman performance.

A REAL PAIN (2024; Playhouse Movie eatre, Hulu, rentable): Jesse Eisenberg’s road movie about American cousins on a Jewish heritage tour is a natural companion to e Brutalist exploring how the trauma of the Holocaust ﬁlters down to younger generations of the diaspora.

TO A LAND UNKNOWN (2024): Speaking of the refugee experience: is acclaimed thriller about two Palestinians in Athens isn’t streaming yet, but you can see it on Sunday, February 16, 8 p.m., at the White River Indie Film Festival in White River Junction.

Adrien Brody is up for an Oscar for his role as an immigrant architect in Brady Corbet’s absorbing period piece.

NEW IN THEATERS

COMPANION: A weekend getaway at a billionaire’s lakeside cabin goes badly for a group of friends in this horror comedy written and directed by Drew Hancock. Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid star. (97 min, R. Bijou, Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Welden)

DEVA: A maverick cop discovers corruption in this Hindi action thriller starring Shahid Kapoor. (156 min, NR. Majestic)

DOG MAN: A half-canine hero pursues a cat supervillain in this animated adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s kids’ books. With the voices of Pete Davidson, Poppy Liu and Lil Rel Howery. (89 min, PG. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Star, Welden)

SEPTEMBER 5: In 1972, a TV crew is covering the Munich Olympics when a terrorist crisis erupts in this historical drama starring Peter Sarsgaard and John Magaro. Tim Fehlbaum directed. (95 min, R. Capitol)

VALIANT ONE: The crew of a downed U.S. helicopter must find their way out of North Korea in this thriller directed by Steven Barnett, starring Chase Stokes and Lana Condor. (102 min, R. Paramount)

CURRENTLY PLAYING

BABYGIRLHHHH A CEO (Nicole Kidman) embarks on a risky affair with an intern (Harris Dickinson) in this erotic thriller. (114 min, R. Majestic, Stowe)

BETTER MANHHHH Pop star Robbie Williams plays himself — as a CGI chimp — in this biopic from director Michael Gracey. (135 min, R. Stowe)

BRAVE THE DARKHHH A teacher takes in a homeless teen in this drama from Angel Studios, starring Jared Harris and Nicholas Hamilton. (112 min, PG-13. Essex)

THE BRUTALISTHHHHH Winner of the Golden Globe for Best Drama, Brady Corbet’s period piece examines the relationship of a refugee architect (Adrien Brody) and his wealthy client. With Felicity Jones and Guy Pearce. (214 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Savoy; reviewed 1/29)

A COMPLETE UNKNOWNHHH Timothée Chalamet plays the young Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s biopic. (141 min, R. Bijou, Capitol, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Star, Welden)

FLIGHT RISKHH A U.S. marshal (Michelle Dockery) tries to protect a witness during a flight over the Alaskan wilderness in this action thriller directed by Mel Gibson, also starring Mark Wahlberg. (91 min, R. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Star)

FLOWHHHHH This Latvian animation follows the fate of a cat who must team up with other animals to survive a natural disaster. Gints Zilbalodis directed. (84 min, PG. Majestic, Savoy; reviewed 12/11)

HARD TRUTHSHHHH1/2 Marianne Jean-Baptiste plays a depressed Londoner in a battle of wills with her cheerier sister in this drama from Mike Leigh. (97 min, R. Savoy)

MOANA 2HHH The islander heroine (voice of Auli’i Cravalho) must sail unknown seas to break a curse in the sequel to the animated Disney hit. (100 min, PG. Majestic)

MUFASA: THE LION KINGHHH Disney’s follow-up to its 2019 “live-action” version of The Lion King explores the backstory of Simba’s dad. (120 min, PG. Bijou, Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Star)

NOSFERATUHHHHH Robert Eggers (The Lighthouse) offers his take on one of the foundational cinematic vampire tales. (133 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Stowe; reviewed 1/8)

ONE OF THEM DAYSHHH1/2 Two roommates race to scare up rent money and avoid eviction in this comedy starring Keke Palmer and SZA, directed by Lawrence Lamont. (119 min, R. Essex, Majestic)

PRESENCEHHHH Steven Soderbergh directed this horror film about a family who sense something off in their new suburban home. With Lucy Liu and Julia Fox. (85 min, R. Essex, Majestic)

QUEERHHHH Daniel Craig plays a lonely American in midcentury Mexico City in this romantic drama directed by Luca Guadagnino. (136 min, R. Catamount; reviewed 1/22)

A REAL PAINHHHH1/2 Jesse Eisenberg wrote, directed and stars with Kieran Culkin in this comedy-drama about two estranged cousins exploring their family history in Poland. (90 min, R. Playhouse; reviewed 12/4)

THE ROOM NEXT DOORHHH1/2 In Pedro Almodóvar’s acclaimed first English-language feature, Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton play friends who meet after a long separation. (107 min, PG-13. Savoy)

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3HHH Keanu Reeves voices a shadowy new enemy in another animated action-adventure based on the video game series. (110 min, PG. Majestic, Welden)

WICKEDHHH1/2 Gregory Maguire’s subversive take on The Wizard of Oz becomes a musical becomes a movie starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. (160 min, PG. Bijou, City Cinema, Majestic; reviewed 11/27)

WOLF MANHH1/2 The modern Universal Monsters franchise returns with a new take on the 1941 werewolf classic involving a family in an isolated farmhouse. (103 min, R. City Cinema, Essex, Majestic)

OLDER FILMS AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS

ERASERHEAD (Catamount, Wed 29 only)

FAR OUT: LIFE ON & AFTER THE COMMUNEHHHH (Essex, Wed 29 & Thu only)

FENCES (Catamount, Sun only)

FROM GROUND ZERO (Savoy, Sun only)

HELLRAISER REMASTERED (Essex, Wed 5 only)

METROPOLITAN OPERA: AIDA (Essex, Sat only)

MULHOLLAND DRIVE (Savoy, Sun only)

REMEMBER WINTER (Savoy, Wed 29 only)

TRAIN TO BUSAN (Catamount, Fri only)

OPEN THEATERS

(* = upcoming schedule for theater was not available at press time)

BIJOU CINEPLEX 4: 107 Portland St., Morrisville, 888-3293, bijou4.com

CAPITOL SHOWPLACE: 93 State St., Montpelier, 229-0343, fgbtheaters.com

CATAMOUNT ARTS: 115 Eastern Ave., St. Johnsbury, 748-2600, catamountarts.org

*CITY CINEMA: 137 Waterfront Plaza, Newport, 334-2610, citycinemanewport.com

ESSEX CINEMAS & T-REX THEATER: 21 Essex Way, Suite 300, Essex, 879-6543, essexcinemas.com

MAJESTIC 10: 190 Boxwood St., Williston, 878-2010, majestic10.com

MARQUIS THEATER: 65 Main St., Middlebury, 388-4841, middleburymarquis.com

PARAMOUNT TWIN CINEMA: 241 N. Main St., Barre, 479-9621, fgbtheaters.com

PLAYHOUSE MOVIE THEATRE: 11 S. Main St., Randolph, 728-4012, playhouseflicks.com

SAVOY THEATER: 26 Main St., Montpelier, 2290598, savoytheater.com

STAR THEATRE: 17 Eastern Ave., St. Johnsbury, 748-9511, stjaytheatre.com

*STOWE CINEMA 3PLEX: 454 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4678, stowecinema.com

WELDEN THEATRE: 104 N. Main St., St. Albans, 527-7888, weldentheatre.com

Liquid Views

Renée Greenlee’s works capture the movement of water across Vermont’s landscape

BY AMY LILLY • lilly@sevendaysvt.com

Many artists have used cyanotype photography since British inventor Sir John Herschel discovered the technique in 1842. After combining two nontoxic chemical solutions derived from salts and iron, Herschel coated paper with the mix, placed objects such as ferns or engravings on the treated paper, then exposed the works to sunlight. The ﬁnal step was rinsing the paper with cold water, which created a negative photogram — the image of a white object on a deep Prussian blue background. Huntington photographer and

installation artist Renée Greenlee takes that natural process one step further: She uses water from Vermont’s Lake Champlain watershed as her subject. Greenlee brings treated, dried pieces of silk or watercolor paper in a lighttight bag to the edges of ponds, streams and rivers, where she either pours a small amount of water on them, letting them dry on land, or lays them along the shoreline, in partial contact with the water. The results are “collaborations with nature,” as she describes her work — direct imprints of the waterscape. (She rinses them in her sink at home.)

“Blue Alchemy: At the Water’s Edge,” arranged by state curator David Schutz in

the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery, gathers cyanotypes that Greenlee has made since 2019. She created them at Johns Brook, near her home; at the Horseshoe Bend swimming area in Huntington; by the Winooski River at Volunteers’ Green in Richmond; at points along Lake Champlain; and on temporary spots of snowmelt. In addition to single works on paper, the exhibition includes a triptych on paper and two trios of 9-foot-long silk panels.

The cyanotypes, labeled with dates, locations and the weather that day, span a range of deep and lighter blues. (Colors change during the development process, and Greenlee sometimes documents that

ephemeral progression in photos.) The works’ endless variety is a result of the elements: Some are patterned with ice crystals, while others display runnels of liquid caused by wind. Temperatures and the length of exposure also a ect the works. Greenlee occasionally leaves them outside overnight if the day is cloudy or snow has drifted over them.

SOME ARE PATTERNED WITH ICE CRYSTALS, WHILE OTHERS DISPLAY RUNNELS OF LIQUID CAUSED BY WIND.

“The process doesn’t get consistent results; it depends on the climate — which is what this work is about,” Greenlee said as she showed Seven Days her cyanotypes. Climate change is a central concern in works such as “Pentimento: Flood I & II.” Greenlee cyanotyped the 22-by-30-inch piece of paper twice in the same place — on July 11, 2023, and July 9, 2024, when unprecedentedly destructive ﬂooding in consecutive years had inundated the spot at the confluence of the Winooski and Huntington rivers. The work darkens in hue gradually from sea green at the top to a blackish blue at the bottom, its composition a ected by “whatever chemicals were being swept away — fuel, wastewater, everything,” Greenlee noted.

Several other works reference climate change. Greenlee made “Solastalgia,” a work on paper, on February 25, 2024 — during the world’s warmest February on record. One of her silk panels came from a series of 12 she made in response to the 2023 ﬂoods for an outdoor installation in Burlington. Books by environmental writers Rachel Carson and Robert Macfarlane inspired other works in the show.

In a few cases, Greenlee painted her cyanotype solution on paper in a central shape, resulting in works such as “Heart

Shaped Spring Equinox,” with its abstract dark-blue heart, from which veinlike runs of lighter blue extend on a white background. In most cases, though, she coated the entire surface so that the works resemble close-ups of water.

Greenlee is from a small Pennsylvania town outside Pittsburgh and earned a master’s degree in communication and theology. In 2014, she enrolled in a ninemonth photography program at the nowshuttered Pittsburgh Filmmakers media arts center, where she first learned about cyanotype.

In Vermont, where she and her husband settled in 2015, Greenlee splits her practice between documentary photography for nonprofits, film photography and her cyanotypes. She started experimenting with the medium soon after her move as a way of combating the homesickness she felt.

CALLS TO ARTISTS

2025 MARCH ARTS MARATHON: Seeking artists to recruit donors and share art activities during the Central Vermont Refugee Action Network’s annual event to benefit refugees and asylum seekers. Join online at cvran.org. Deadline: February 15. Free. Info, adshambaugh@myfairpoint.net.

2026 SOLO EXHIBITION PROPOSALS: Now accepting application proposals for solo shows for next year. Artists will be selected by an exhibition committee made up of artists, curators and arts professionals. Apply online at avagallery.org. AVA Gallery and Art Center, Lebanon, N.H. Deadline: March 31. $45. Info, sam@avagallery.org.

CREATION GRANTS: Accepting applications for the annual grant, which supports artists or artist groups in creating new work. Awards of up to $5,000 for artists, writers, musicians and performers in all genres. Deadline: April 8 at 1 p.m. Apply online at vermontartscouncil.org. Vermont Arts Council. Free. Info, 402-4602.

‘EARTH DAY: TRANSFORMATION’ EXHIBITION: Inviting artists who use

Eventually the experiments evolved into “Blue Alchemy,” an ongoing body of work about climate. After the 2024 floods, Greenlee joined RAFT, or Recovery After Floods Team, a group of volunteers in Huntington, Richmond and Hinesburg that is helping flood survivors with longterm recovery. She sees her cyanotypes as the artistic counterpart to that on-theground work.

“My response as an artist is ‘How do you process that amount of grief — ecological grief and grief in general?’” she said. “What have we lost? What can we change? How do we work together? I want my work to be part of that conversation.”

Among a series of nine cyanotypes titled “In Praise of Small Streams,” made at Johns Brook last winter, hangs “Come to the Brook,” a poem by Amy Seidl. Greenlee requested it of her friend and neighbor who codirects the University of Vermont’s environmental program. In it, the brook is a unifier — not just of the wild animals that visit it but also of humans and plants, whose exhalations mingle with the brook “as it rises into air.”

“It’s a cliché, but everything really is connected,” Greenlee said. “That’s hammered home for me by this work every time.” ➆

INFO

“Blue Alchemy: At the Water’s Edge,” at the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery, Montpelier, through March 31. reneegreenlee.com

traditional handcrafts to celebrate the natural world and to educate and inform others to submit works for the show and community engagement series. Deadline: midnight on February 1. Apply at whiterivercraftcenter.org. White River Craft Center, Randolph. Free. Info, info@whiterivercraftcenter.org.

“UNBOUND”: Now accepting up to three works per submission of artists’ books in traditional and unconventional formats, including works made from or depicting books. Deadline: March 29. Artistree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret. $30 entry fee. Info, exhibits@ artistreevt.org.

VERMONT PRIZE: Accepting applications for the Vermont Prize, a collaborative initiative between the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, Burlington City Arts, the Hall Foundation, and the Current, which awards $5,000 to an exceptional visual artist working in Vermont. Submissions open February 1; deadline: March 31. Apply online at vermontprize.org. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center. Free. Info, hello@vermontprize.org.

Print from "In Praise of Small Streams" series

3910 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, Vermont (802) 448-5500

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Highway to the Stars: New Sculpture Lifts Off in South Burlington

STORY & PHOTOS BY ALICE DODGE adodge@sevendaysvt.com

The ‘Whale Tails’ in South Burlington’s Technology Park have a new neighbor: central Vermont sculptor Christopher Curtis’ monumental stainless steel “That Place in the Stars,” which will be on view through the spring.

The new sculpture is tucked beside the OnLogic building, visible from the highway but farther away. It’s shiny and pointy, a 24-foot-high vertical swoop intersected by an elegantly curving, 21-foot-wide arch, with a space-age aesthetic. On the frigid bluebird January day Curtis installed the work, seeing it was like visiting a sculpture park on the moon.

Curtis has created works in stone and metal for decades; many have appeared over the years in the annual “Exposed” show of outdoor sculpture in Stowe, which he cofounded in 1992. But “That Place in the Stars” is his largest yet.

He started thinking about the work five years ago, he said, when he was playing with two pieces of glass in his Duxbury studio and noticed the interactions between their curved edges. Soon, Curtis was drawing versions of the sculpture in CAD design software.

“The beauty about that is, these mathematical shapes — these curves — are defined, you know, mathematically,” he said. “That’s why they’re so smooth.”

CAD also facilitates 3D printing, an easy way to make small maquettes of his sculptures, which he uses to refine the final design. The sculpture at Technology Park is the second in an edition of three; the first iteration of “That Place in the Stars” is in a private collection in Tulsa, Okla.

After building that version in 2022, Curtis toured it from the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe to the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, disassembled on a flatbed truck. The sculpture made pit stops in such locations as the Cincinnati Observatory and the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park in St. Louis, where it posed as though for selfies with sculpture-celeb the Gateway Arch. Curtis and his wife were recently driving to Burlington when she noticed the Whale Tails — or, more properly, Jim Sardonis’ “Reverence” — and thought it would be a great, clearly visible spot for “That Place in the Stars.” Curtis approached John Illick of ReArch, Technology Park’s developer, who purchased “Reverence” for the site in 1999. “There’s this kind of legacy,” Curtis said. “I knew Jim Sardonis right from when he was carving them, back in the ’80s.” Illick

connected Curtis with OnLogic, which owns the site, and company personnel were enthusiastic about hosting a second piece of art, Curtis said.

“That Place in the Stars” is sleek and high-tech, while the Whale Tails are natural and comfortingly chonky, yet the two sculptures have more similarities than you’d think. The mast of “Stars” twists as it curves gently upward, like a spine; its downward arch echoes the shape of a whale’s tail fin. Each work was created with a different site in mind, but both are arresting in this odd, drive-by landscape.

INFO

As Curtis whacked at icy bolts with a wrench during installation, his sculpture resonated like a gong. Up close, tiny

grinder marks show where the piece was welded together; a viewer has a real sense of its materiality and the artisanry of its construction, as well as its techie origins. Though the sculpture invites viewers to imagine what Curtis called a “mythic place,” its physical details reframe any location as somewhere stellar — even a frozen office park by the highway. ➆

“That Place in the Stars” by Christopher Curtis, installed through the spring at OnLogic in South Burlington. christophercurtis.com

OPENINGS + RECEPTIONS

RAY BROWN: “Art for Resilience,” a pop-up exhibition of paintings and drawings by the late Montpelier artist in the SPA Classroom, serving as a silent auction fundraiser to benefit the continued work of SPA to protect its historic building from future flood damage. Bids received in person and online. Online bidding through February 15. Studio Place Arts, Barre, through February 8. Info, 479-7069.

CHIP HAGGERTY: A pop-up exhibition by the emerging, self-taught artist with dozens of works on display. Open weekends, occasional weekdays and by appointment. Winter Gallery, Stowe, through February 23. Free. Info, haggerty@pshift.com.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: ‘CHEMO GOWNS’: An exhibition of blue chemotherapy gowns that were transformed into high fashion for the Chemogown Extravaganza at Higher Ground in 2024. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, through April 30. Info, kashman@burlingtoncityarts.org.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: LINDA BLACKERBY: An exhibition of abstract mixed-media paintings influenced by the artists’s love of travel, interior design and color theory. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, through April 30. Info, kashman@burlingtoncityarts.org.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: ROB HITZIG: An exhibition of abstract geometric paintings by the Montpelier artist. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, through April 30. Info, kashman@burlingtoncityarts. org.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: TESSA HOLMES: An exhibition of mixed-media photo collages inspired by Vermont’s seasons and plants. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, through April 30. Info, kashman@burlingtoncityarts.org.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: JILL MADDEN: An exhibition of oil paintings of landscapes, primarily painted in plein air. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, through April 30. Info, kashman@ burlingtoncityarts.org.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: KRISTINA PENTEK: An exhibition of photographs capturing natural abstractions and juxtapositions of nature and the built world. University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, through April 30. Info, kashman@ burlingtoncityarts.org.

OREN W. HILLS: An exhibition of 32 recently discovered photographs taken by the Montpelier photographer in the early 20th century, including studio portraits, crime scene documentation, newspaper assignments and photographs from the First World War. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, through June 30. Info, 479-8500.

LAURA POHL: “Quiltscapes,” large, colorful acrylic paintings inspired by the geometry and patterns of quilts. Parker Pie, West Glover, through March 18. Free. Info, 525-3366.

TRACEY J. HAMBLETON: “Town and Country,” a show of plein-air paintings of historic buildings and scenes in the greater Barre area by SPA’s 2021-23 SPA Studio Residency recipient. Studio Place Arts, Barre, through April 11. Info, 479-7069.

‘MONOCHROME’: A juried show of black-and-white and single-tone photographs selected by juror Douglas Beasley. Reception: Friday, January 31, 4-7 p.m. PhotoPlace Gallery, Middlebury, January 31-February 21. Info, 989-7556.

KRISTIN RICHLAND: “Tales Yet Untold,” paintings and drawings of real and imaginary creatures. Reception: Saturday, February 1, 4-5:30 p.m. Studio Place Arts, Barre, through March 1. Info, 479-7069.

MARY TAPOGNA: “Black Lives Matter,” a mixed-media mosaic portrait series. Reception: February 1, 4-5:30 p.m. Studio Place Arts, Barre, through March 1. Info, 479-7069.

"That Place in the Stars"

Curtis holding a maquette

‘WHERE’S MY HAT?’: A group show in which artists reflect on clothing or lack thereof in a variety of media. Reception: Saturday, February 1, 4-5:30 p.m. Studio Place Arts, Barre, through March 1. Info, 479-7069.

JUANCARLOS GONZÁLEZ: “Vermont Female Farmers,” a series of black-and-white portraits by the Puerto Rican photographer. Reception: Wednesday, February 5, 5-7 p.m. Fleming Museum of Art, University of Vermont, Burlington, February 4-May 17. Info, 656-0750.

‘ROOTED IN NATURE: COLLECTING HISTORIES AT UVM’: Works tracing the history and growth of the Fleming’s collections. Reception: Wednesday, February 5, 5-7 p.m. Fleming Museum of Art, University of Vermont, Burlington, February 4-May 17. Info, 656-0750.

‘BELONGING: A NEW COLLECTIONS GALLERY’: A reimagined presentation of works from the Fleming’s permanent collection, including new acquisitions, vessels by ceramist Toshiko Takaezu and an interactive installation. Reception: Wednesday, February 5, 5-7 p.m. Fleming Museum of Art, University of Vermont, Burlington, ongoing. Info, 656-0750.

MAKAYLA BLAKE: “Collector’s Drop,” a solo show presented by the artist as part of a senior capstone project in the Art and Design program. Reception: Thursday, February 6, 5 p.m. McCarthy Art Gallery, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, February 3-7. Info, bcollier@smcvt.edu.

HAWLEY HUSSEY: “Alchemy of a Slow Revolution,” paintings, prints and narratives by the artist, who works at the intersection of visual art, writing and performance. Reception: Friday, February 7, 5-7:30 p.m.; artist talk, 6 p.m. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, January 29-March 25. Info, 262-6035.

‘MONTPELIER HIGH SCHOOL ART AND POETRY’: An ekphrastic poetry project created by creative writing and visual art students in response to each other’s

work. Reception: Friday, February 7, 5-7:30 p.m. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, January 29-March 25. Info, 262-6035.

‘PHOTOGRAPHY SHOOT-OUT’: The annual show where the public can vote for their favorite photograph until Friday, February 7; this year’s theme is “Contrast.”

Reception: Friday, February 7, 5-7 p.m.; winners announced at 5:30 p.m. Axel’s Frame Shop & Gallery, Waterbury, through February 15. Info, 244-7801.

‘NEW VISIONS: A COLLECTIVE DEBUT’: An exhibition welcoming central Vermont mixed-media artist

Athena Tasiopoulos; Waitsfield painter Marilyn Rusecas; Freeport, Maine, painter Robert Wieferich; and Mount Desert, Maine, landscape painter Robert Wellings to the gallery. Reception: Saturday, February 8, 1-4 p.m. Bryan Fine Art Gallery, Stowe, February 5-June 9. Info, 760-6474.

MICHAEL METZ: “There’s Nothing Like the Street,” an exhibition of 50 years of street photography, including architecture, graffiti and portraits. Reception: Friday, February 14, 4-6 p.m. Village Wine and Coffee, Shelburne, February 1-28. Info, 985-8925.

ART EVENTS

ARTIST TALK AND DINNER: KIMBERLEE ALEMIAN:

A discussion of the artist’s still life painting practice, followed by dinner. Guests are asked to arrive between 5 and 5:30 p.m. Presented by Edgewater Gallery; call the Pitcher Inn to reserve. The Pitcher Inn, Warren, Thursday, January 30, 5 p.m. Talk is free; dinner at menu prices. Info, 496-6350.

SARAH LETTENEY: “Here and There,” a one-night show and reception presenting a collection of new drawings. Foam Brewers, Burlington, Friday, January 31, 5 p.m. Free. Info, info@foambrewers.com.

‘WORDS OF JOY: A COLLABORATIVE COMMUNITY

ART PROJECT CELEBRATING TRANS JOY’: A workshop

where trans, nonbinary or genderqueer youths (13 to 18) or young adults (18 to 25) are invited to team up with trans and queer elders to create dynamic supersize magnetic poetry tiles that celebrate gender diversity. Snacks and lunch provided. Generator Makerspace, Burlington, Saturday, February 1, noon-4 p.m. Free. Info, mollyober@gmail.com.

ARTIST TALK: DIAN PARKER: A reading by the artist from her chapbook “The Color of Time” in conjunction with the exhibition “Layers.” Adamant Co-op, Saturday, February 1, 1 p.m. Info, 223-5760.

ART SOCIAL: A community celebration of new exhibitions, including “Where’s My Hat?;” “Tales Yet Untold” by Kristin Richland; “Black Lives Matter,” a portrait series by Mary Tapagna; and works by Pamela Wilson in the Quick Change Gallery. Studio Place Arts, Barre, Saturday, February 1, 4-5:30 p.m. free. Info, 479-7069.

SOCIAL SUNDAY: An opportunity for children and caregivers to stop in and complete a 15- to 30-minute activity during the two-hour workshop. Milton Artists’ Guild Art Center & Gallery, Sunday, February 2, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

ARTIST TALK: BERNHARD WUNDER: “Deep Sky Astrophotography,” a presentation on how to use telescopes to capture images of distant nebulae and galaxies. Emile A. Gruppe Gallery, Jericho, Sunday, February 2, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, emilegruppegallery@gmail.com.

PORTRAIT DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event where artists can practice skills in any medium. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, Monday, February 3, 10 a.m.noon. Free; $10 suggested donation. Info, 262-6035.

WINTER WATERCOLORS WITH PAULINE NOLTE: Weekly workshops for painters of all abilities; no experience necessary. Register via email. Waterbury Public Library, Tuesday, February 4, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, judi@waterburypubliclibrary.com.

OPEN STUDIO: A guided meditation followed by an hour of art making in any medium and concluding with a share-and-witness process. Many art materials available. In person and online. Expressive Arts Burlington, Tuesday, February 4, 6:30-8:30 p.m. By donation. Info, 343-8172.

LIFE DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event for artists working with the figure from a live model. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, Thursday, January 30, 7-9 p.m. Free; $10 suggested donation. Info, 262-6035. ➆

music+nightlife

Lost Luggage

Matt Lorenz returns with his one-man band, the Suitcase Junket

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com

Matt Lorenz has always had a knack for rescuing broken and discarded things from the junk heap. The Cavendish native, who started playing piano at age 5 and later picked up guitar, saxophone and violin, specializes in salvaging damaged instruments and building his own from scratch. Onstage, playing under the moniker the Suitcase Junket, Lorenz surrounds himself with his creations and rescues, producing a wall of sounds and melodies that make the label “one-man band” seem like an understatement. It’s more like a junkyard symphony with Lorenz as the conductor, e ortlessly multitasking as he plays a heart-on-sleeve, foot-stomping brand of doom folk.

On his last album, 2020’s The End Is New, Lorenz added big-studio production to his busker-on-steroids sound, partnering with producer Steve Berlin of the band Los Lobos to make his most sonically sophisticated record to date. As the album was released early in the pandemic, Lorenz wasn’t able to tour with it. In the intervening years, he’s had to turn his natural inclination to repair on himself: His sister, Kate Lorenz, with whom he performed as the band Rusty Belle, died unexpectedly at age 42 in July 2022.

“It’s been a really crazy couple of years for me, both good and bad,” Lorenz said in a phone call from his home in western Massachusetts. “A lot of death as well as having two kids. Sometimes you just have those years where life really kicks the shit out of you.”

Like a discarded gas canister he’s turned into a rototom drum, Lorenz has refurbished himself and written a heap of new music he’s ready to record. He’s also getting back onstage. He performs on Saturday, February 1, at the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge in South Burlington before heading south for a Saturday, February 15, show at the Stone Church in Brattleboro, both with indie-folk act Cloudbelly.

Lorenz hopped on the phone with Seven Days to talk about writing through grief, the smell of the woods outside his house and the role of music in dark times.

It’s good to hear from you again. It’s been a little while.

I know! I have a 2-year-old and a 4-yearold now, and the day-to-day realities of caring for my kids has really slowed everything down, both in a joyful and maddening way. I keep telling my friends I’m experiencing slow-motion ego death

breath — no sobbing! But honestly, you’re supposed to feel the big, hard feelings. It’s worse if you don’t.

Your last album was by far your most topical and political. As an artist, do you feel an obligation to reﬂect on tumultuous times?

It’s funny, but I used to avoid it. The ability to pull o the folk thing where you talk about society and tell the hard truths — it’s much harder than people realize. A lot of artists do it in an overly preachy way, really heavyhanded in a way that always feels unpleasant to me. But yeah, I do feel an obligation to reflect on what’s happening right now. It’s similar to writing about grief — it’s so all-encompassing that I have to write about it before I can move on as an artist.

What makes writing a protest song — or even just a topical song — such a difﬁcult task? Is it the danger of being overly earnest? Is it a fear of alienating some listeners?

and that you have to get Zen about it — or else.

“Zen or else” sounds like a solid mantra in 2025.

[ Laughs. ] Seriously! Maybe that’s the ticket. “Get Zen — or else!”

It’s been ﬁve years since e End Is New. Has it all been changing diapers, or have you been able to keep writing? I have a solid two hours a day to do some writing when one is napping and the other is at daycare. I actually have two records ready to go. One is a kind of dance party record that I was working on before my sister passed, and the other is much more lo-ﬁ, full of sad songs, kind of a Basement Tapes-style record. Almost like a demo.

You’re playing a lot of the new material on this tour. Does playing the songs you wrote after your sister died bring a sort of catharsis, or is it more like picking a scab every night?

Kate and I used to play together all the time, whether it was when we played in Rusty Belle or when she would sit in on Suitcase Junket shows. So I always feel super connected to her when I’m playing. And I started playing again pretty soon after she died because I was worried that if I didn’t, I might never. It’ll still surprise me sometimes and sneak up on me … but I learned that if you need to cry onstage, go ahead and cry. You have to control your

I’m much more comfortable with it now. I could see joining the new school of saying what needs to be said. How could I not? I have a 2-year old daughter, and there are people like [President Donald] Trump in power, so I’m worried about the next 40 years as much as these next four. The other tough part is … Trump is so good at making you angry. It’s really all he knows how to do. He can piss you o so much, your tongue gets tied and you have to take a deep breath and interact with it as an artist. But it’s not easy.

So, what can fans expect to see ﬁrst: the big dance record or the introspective one? Any thoughts of releasing a double album, a sort of Use Your Illusion with intense mood swings? Oh, man … I think I’ll have to do the sad record first before we drop the dance record. Who knows, though? Putting records out these days is sort of … Um, how are people doing this now? But once I’ve worked them out live on this tour, I’ll get back in the studio with Steve. And even with the sadder record, it’s mostly positive feelings, you know? Even if music is making you feel sad in the moment, it’s helping: It’s moving you through bad feelings and towards something new. ➆

This interview was edited and condensed for clarity and length.

INFO

e Suitcase Junket with Cloudbelly, Saturday, February 1, 7:30 p.m., at the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge in South Burlington. $1518. highergroundmusic.com. And Saturday, February 15, 8 p.m., at the Stone Church in Brattleboro. $20. stonechurchvt.com

Matt Lorenz, aka the Suitcase Junket

On the Beat

DAN “RUDI” RUDDELL, known for playing in local bluegrass outﬁts HAYWIRE and TURNIP TRUCK, and his partner, LISA KIPPEN, lost their Tunbridge home to a ﬁre on the night of November 28. Ruddell’s instruments, including his prized 1930s Gibson L-00 acoustic guitar, were destroyed. And Kippen, an artist, lost all of her work and materials as the house that Ruddell had built in 1997 burned to the ground.

While a fundraising e ort is under way to help the couple rebuild their home, the local music community is taking matters into its own hands with a beneﬁt concert. Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph hosts “Mountain Songs: A Beneﬁt Concert for Rudi and Lisa” on Friday, January 31. Featuring a slew of area musicians and bands such as BOW THAYER, MOUNTAIN DOG, SPENCER LEWIS & FRIENDS, and Turnip Truck, the event is by donation only, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Ruddell and Kippen’s aid.

Visit chandler-arts.org for more information.

Burlington indie artist LILY SEABIRD recently announced the impending release of her new album, Trash Mountain, April 4 on Lame-O Records. She also dropped a brand-new single and accompanying music video.

Eye on the Scene

Last week’s live music highlights from photographer Luke Awtry TOM PEARO, HOTEL VERMONT, BURLINGTON, SUNDAY, JANUARY 26: For the entire month of January, Hotel Vermont’s Juniper Bar & Restaurant offered up an extra-tasty Sunday brunch special — and I don’t mean the new build-your-own hot cocoa boards. Local guitar wizard Tom Pearo played in the hotel lobby every cold Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For two hours straight, Pearo served a multicourse feast for the ears, with each week’s menu a unique set of songs paired perfectly with the mellow ﬁreside vibes. Pearo has cultivated his own distinctive set of musical ﬂavors and amassed a robust bounty from which he composes his entrées. What was the song du jour, you ask? Pearo prepared a spread of sustained chords, marinated in analog delays, looped between layers of meaty bass lines and topped with shimmering cathedral reverb. It was served with a side of hot buttery leads and fresh countermelodies as garnish. I enjoyed every last morsel yet still walked away hungry for more. My compliments to the chef.

The video for the new LP’s lead single, “Trash Mountain (1pm),” shows Seabird singing and dancing with a red balloon in the playground of the Integrated Arts Academy and other locales around Burlington’s Old North End. The song is an altcountry-tinged jam, bare-bones folk that showcases Seabird’s twang-inﬂected voice and sparse instrumentation. It’s streaming now on YouTube.

They say the modern sitcom is either dying or just plain dead. That hasn’t stopped a group of Burlington comedians from staging their own — live.

“Pet Store: A Live Sitcom” opens on Thursday, January 30, at Vermont Comedy Club and will continue on the last Thursday of every month through May. This is appointment viewing, people. A cast of comics spearheaded by MAGGIE PHELAN and NIC SISK will portray the employees of You Can Pet on Us, a ﬁctional small-town pet store dealing with the recent arrival of a giant national chain across the street.

If you always secretly wanted to be the person who gasps when a character says something surprising on a sitcom or cheers when an actor makes their entrance, this is your chance. Check out vermontcomedyclub.com to get all the details and purchase tickets. ➆

Dobbs

1.31

2.8 THUR 1.30

THURSDAYS Jarv w/ King Green, Damn Skippy

Lazy Bird w/ Dupont, DeLuca & Morse Trio

2.12

Hosted by VT Comedy All-Stars 2nd Wednesday Comedy Jam FRI 2.14 All Night Boogie Band SAT 2.15

Celebrating Sergei: An Analog Outpouring

Listening In

(Spotify mix of local jams)

Scan to listen sevendaysvt. com/playlist

“BLESSED AF” by Ivamae

“RIP VAN WINKLE” by Witch

“I’M OK, YOU’RE A SHITHEAD” by Jack O’ the Clock

“WELL RESTED” by Raw Deff, Rico James

“COME OVER ANYTIME” by the Arty LaVigne Band

“WHEN THE FIRE BURNS LOW” by Ponyhustle

“BUST IT DOWN” by Juni the Wiccan

Lily Seabird

music+nightlife

CLUB DATES

live music

WED.29

BBQ and Bluegrass (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.

DJ Chalango, DJ Tarzana Salsa Night (DJ, salsa) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Mihali (jam) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 7 p.m.

$20/$25.

Mike Mac (acoustic) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m. Free.

Wave Generators, NAHreally, cropscropscrops, Old Gold, DJ Asterisk (hip-hop) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. $10.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10.

THU.30

Annie in the Water (Americana) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 7 p.m. $12/$15.

The Betts Brothers (rock) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 6 p.m. Free.

Blood on the Tracks 50th Anniversary (Bob Dylan tribute) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free. Carly King (folk) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $15.

Frankie & the Fuse, Nick Granelle, Maple Ridge (indie rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10/$15.

Jazz with Alex Stewart and Friends (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free. Kraatz Carromato (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Nowhere Washington (pop, rock) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Raised by Hippies, Red Hot Juba (rock, jazz) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. $10.

Remember Baker (folk) at South Mountain Tavern, Bristol, 6 p.m. Free.

Sicard Hollow (punk, bluegrass) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $17.

Sleeveless Tease (pop, rock) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

FRI.31

Annie in the Water (Americana, indie rock) at Stowe Cider, 8 p.m. $20.

Bent Nails House Band (blues, jazz) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

Better Angels (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

Find the most up-to-date info on live music, DJs, comedy and more at sevendaysvt.com/music. If you’re a talent booker or artist planning live entertainment at a bar, nightclub, café, restaurant, brewery or coffee shop, send event details to music@sevendaysvt.com or submit the info using our form at sevendaysvt.com/postevent.

Succor Rock

Few bands embody their name as succinctly as Burlington indie-folk act HONEY & SOUL. With sunlit melodies, soaring harmonies and subtle dynamics, the quintet excels at crafting vulnerable music that envelopes the listener like a warm embrace. A trio when they released their debut LP Lady King, Honey & Soul have since added a rhythm section to expand their live show and have hinted at new music in 2025. Catch them on Friday, January 31, at Radio Bean in Burlington, along with Brooklyn indie-pop artist BECCS

Breanna Elaine (singersongwriter) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

Brook Pridemore (punk) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9:30 p.m. Free.

Buku Brains (acoustic) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 7 p.m. Free.

Chicky Stoltz Vinyl Release Party (Americana, rock) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5 p.m. Free.

Cobras (rock) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Dizgo, Peak (jam band) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10. EDW, Frankie & the Fuse (rock, pop) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $10/$15. Electric Trolley Company, the Eye Traps (indie rock) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $5. Electronic Emulsion (electronic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.

Honey & Soul, beccs (folk, indie pop) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10/$20.

Hurwitz Family Friday Jam (folk) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 8 p.m. Free.

Jerborn (acoustic) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 8 p.m. Free.

Liquid A (covers) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $10.

Monachino, Jarrett & Stats (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Myra Flynn (R&B, soul) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $23/$28.

The Natural Selection (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 5 p.m. Free.

Paul Webb (jazz piano) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Rap Night Burlington (hip-hop) at Drink, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5.

Ryan Osswald (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.

Sarah Mitchell (singer-songwriter) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 6 p.m. Free.

Satyrdagg (prog, jazz) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Shane Murley Band (folk rock) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Steve Blair (jazz) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Tim Brick (country) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

Timothy James (acoustic) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6 p.m. Free.

TRS LIVE: Night Protocol (live recording) at Tank Recording Studio, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $35.

The Warped Tour Band, All the Blink Things, Dookie (tribute) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $20/$25.

SAT.1

90 Proof (covers) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $15/$18.

Alice Grace, Audrey Pearl (indie) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.

The Culture Music Fest (hip-hop) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8 p.m. $30/$40.

Destination SXM with Harry Romero, Julian Prince, Sinca (EDM) at the Lounge at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $30.

EDW (rock) at Gusto’s, Barre, 7:30 p.m. Free.

The Faerie Godbrothers (folk, roots) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.

The Full Cleveland (yacht rock) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $10.

Glass Onion (Beatles tribute) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.

Groundhog Fest (indie, electronic, hip-hop) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $26.83/$41.50.

Joe’s Big Band Winter Burner (jazz) at Burlington St. John’s Club, 7-10 p.m. $15.

Kuf Knotz & Christine Elise (hip-hop, soul) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

Lazy Bird, Dupont, Deluca, Morse Trio (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Liquid A (covers) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 9 p.m. $10.

Live Music Saturdays (live music series) at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Hinesburg, 7 p.m. Free.

Los Songoros with Carlos Placeres (Cuban, Brazilian folk) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Mike Ricciarelli (singersongwriter) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

Moonbird (R&B, soul) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 4 p.m. $5.

Nickel & Dime (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

Paddy Reagan Trio (instrumental) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Patrick Ross & Doug Perkins: A Music Helps Fundraiser (folk) at Shelburne Vineyard, 7 p.m. $20.

Paul Asbell (jazz) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Paul Webb (jazz piano) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Sed One & I Rhymes (hip-hop) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

The Suitcase Junket, Cloudbelly (indie) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $15/$18.

SUN.2

Dizgo (jam) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 7 p.m. $12/$15.

Sunday Brunch Tunes (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m.

MON.3

Blind Pilot, Dean Johnson (folk rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $25/$30.

TUE.4

Atmosphere, Sage Francis, Mr. Dibbs (hip-hop) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 7 p.m. $25. Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

Bruce Sklar Jazz Quartet (jazz) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5 p.m. Free.

Danny & the Parts, Eastern Mountain Time (Americana, folk) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5.

Grateful Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Honky Tonk Tuesday with John Abair and His Good Friends (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10.

WED.5

BBQ and Bluegrass (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Mdou Moctar, Janel Leppin (acoustic, psych rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $25/$30.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10.

WED.29

DJ Blaine (DJ) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 5 p.m. Free.

Queer Bar Takeover (DJ) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

FRI.31 // HONEY & SOUL [FOLK]

Lisa Piccirillo, Radiate

(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)

Returning to music 16 years after her last release, Lisa Piccirillo of Norwich announces the end of her hiatus and basks in the glow of the muse on her new album, Radiate. With its themes of desire, identity, anger, strength, softness and empowerment, the record covers broad emotional terrain. Exploring how marriage and motherhood complicate creativity, Piccirillo doesn’t reinvent any genres, but Radiate marks a masterful entry into the lineage of ’90s and ’00s pop rock with potent sincerity. The album opens with a pair of anthems, “Inviting” and “Enough,” that echo some of the best ballads of the turn of the 21st century. Both manage to convey nostalgia without being cloying, avoiding the possible

sappiness of lyrics such as “tell me all your stories” and “come home to me and I’ll be here” (both from “Inviting”). The sheer earnestness of Piccirillo’s voice makes these lines transcend cliché.

On the title track, the album’s mood shifts brieﬂy from upbeat to somber. Piccirillo reﬂects on the pain and di culty of pursuing creative dreams but breaks through at the chorus, declaring triumphantly, “I am standing in my light” and “I’ll keep climbing.” Evoking Sara Bareilles’ early ballads, the piano and voice remain central to the song as violin and doubled vocals crescendo to the end. “The Light” continues the illumination metaphor, this time displacing it onto a rhetorical other — self, muse, partner — while promising to shine for them in their new phase of renewed creativity.

On “Lovers & Ghosts,” Piccirillo pauses to contemplate how her creativity was lost in the ﬁrst place. However, she doesn’t wallow. Instead, she resolves to seek renewal with a resounding rejection of the notion that one must put one’s life on hold to pursue creative dreams.

By “Sing,” the album’s motif is ﬁrmly established. Here Piccirillo addresses a separated self, expressing a desire to hear herself sing, to see herself bathed in

Adam Tendler, Inheritances

(NEW AMSTERDAM RECORDS, DIGITAL)

Adam Tendler is known as one of contemporary classical music’s most intentional and daring pianists. Indeed, the Barre native’s latest project, Inheritances, is an intimate, gratifying endeavor achieved through a remarkable bond with his expanding network of renowned musicians.

Released on New Amsterdam Records in December, it features 16 works for solo piano. Tendler commissioned them from accomplished colleagues to help him mourn his late father and make peace with what had become a distant relationship.

After Tendler’s father died unexpectedly in late 2019, his stepmother asked to meet him at a Denny’s on the Vermont-New Hampshire border, where she handed him a manila envelope full of cash. His inheritance was a surprise, but the amount wouldn’t stretch far in New York City, where Tendler lives, performs and teaches on the New York University piano faculty.

Instead, Tendler used the inheritance to ﬁnance a more meaningful way to remember his father –

assembling a cast of respected collaborators to create new works for the piano. He received compositions from the likes of Missy Mazzoli, Devonté Hynes and Nico Muhly, the last of whom grew up in Vermont about 30 minutes from Tendler and later befriended him in New York.

When composer Scott Wollschleger inquired with speciﬁc questions, Tendler provided elaborate, revealing answers. He shared these thoughts with all of his collaborators, o ering up not just memories and stories but also recordings, photos and keepsakes.

The additional input helped inspire the composers as they recalled their own — in some cases, private — experiences with death and what was left behind.

After receiving critical acclaim as a recital, Inheritances is now available in recorded form. It conﬁrms Tendler’s reputation as a bold and instinctive soloist, one whose delicacy matches his intensity.

It also demonstrates his willingness to try fresh concepts, including the opener, “Remember, I Created You,” which uses clips from an AI program developed by its composer, Laurie Anderson. The snippets establish a theme that pairs Tendler’s memories of his dad with his father’s actual words, which are echoed in the recording.

On “Thank You So Much” by Pamela Z, keys imitate jumbled audio recordings of Tendler speaking about experimental composer and music theorist John Cage, but the playful questions sound as if they’re asked of his late father.

starlight and stage light and refusing to be conﬁned to domestic life.

“Last Star” again slows down and reorients around the light metaphor. Where the album’s ﬁrst half reveled explicitly in empowerment and refound joy, “Last Star” is more contemplative, channeling an early-career Jason Mraz. Opening with long chords and soaring vocal melodies, it crests in huge orchestration with repeating and heavily layered vocals.

“The Archer” throws a twist into the formula, adding a bit of a Celtic sound and leaning into a heavier multipart vocal arrangement. This is only a quick deviation, as “Wanted” and “Remembering” return to the sound of the earlier songs to form a pair of thematic capstones.

As both a celebration of the artist’s reentry into music and an album of self-empowerment, Radiate is a wild success. Finding a balance between speciﬁcity and universality, Piccirillo generously welcomes the listener in. Both pain and happiness are represented throughout the album, but its ultimate conclusion is the joy that comes from daring to dream. And what a joy it is, for songwriter and listener alike.

Radiate is available on all major streaming services.

TIM ROUSSEAU

Other numbers are more demonstrative of the deep reﬂection that went into the project, like “The Plum Tree I Planted Still There,” written by New Amsterdam Records cofounder Sarah Kirkland Snider, and “hushing,” a rumbling meditation by composer inti ﬁggis-vizueta.

“Eiris, Sones,” Muhly’s contribution to the project, is one of its most thought-provoking. As Tendler ambles through the music with an arresting delicacy, his sadness and his blurry understanding of his father become universally relatable.

In Darian Donovan Thomas’ adrift “We Don’t Need to Tend This Garden, They’re Wildﬂowers,” Tendler grapples with his confusion about his father in the wake of his death. It’s a heartrending, symbolic assessment of his and his dad’s relationship that hears Tendler rambling and reminiscing, begging questions that might never be answered. “What’s going on behind that door, Dad?” he repeats and later asks, “Who are you, Dad? Where are you going, Dad? What are you doing, Dad?”

The album closer, “Morning Piece” by Devonté Hynes, is yet another work that beneﬁts from Tendler’s supple touch. With it he bids a quiet, ﬁtting farewell to his father.

Inheritances is available on all major streaming platforms and can be purchased on CD at adamtendler. bandcamp.com.

CASEY RYAN VOCK

THU.30

Daft Punk Night (DJ) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $12/$15.

DJ Chaston (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

DJ JP Black (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ Two Sev (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.

Vinyl Night with Ken (DJ) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

Wish We Were in Mexico Dance Party (Phish dance party) at Stowe Cider, 8 p.m. $15.

FRI.31

Blanchface (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

DJ Ara$ (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.

DJ CRE8 (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free.

DJ Taka (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15.

DJ Two Rivers (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

Hip-Hop Night (hip-hop) at the Underground, Randolph, 7:30 p.m. $14-17.

Latin Night with DJ JP Black (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Ron Stoppable (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

SAT.1

DJ Chia (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

DJ Raul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

HAVEN (DJ) at MothershipVT, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Matt Payne (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Molly Mood (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

SUN.2

Mi Yard Reggae Night with DJ Big Dog (reggae, dancehall) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

TUE.4 // ATMOSPHERE [HIP-HOP]

Air Time

Minneapolis duo ATMOSPHERE debuted in 1996 with a trailblazing take on hip-hop, a sort of proto-emo rap that evinced an aesthetic more indie than baller and espoused general disdain for the mainstream image of the genre. They’ve since released more than two dozen albums featuring rapper Slug’s heart-on-sleeve, confessional lyrics and producer Ant’s classic jazz- and soul-sampling tracks. The duo has spent decades crafting a sound that eschews braggadocio-laced party rap for songs displaying introspection and vulnerability. Atmosphere’s Imagine the Fun tour, featuring Rhode Island rapper SAGE FRANCIS and Cincinnati DJ MR. DIBBS, comes to the Pickle Barrel Nightclub in Killington on Tuesday, February 4.

WED.5

DJ Blaine (DJ) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 5 p.m. Free.

Wadada Wednesdays: Reggae

Dub Night with Satta Sound (DJ, reggae) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

open mics & jams

WED.29

Open Mic (open mic) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.30

Open Mic with Artie (open mic) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

SUN.2

Olde Time Jam Session (open jam) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, noon. Free.

MON.3

Open Mic (open mic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.4

Venetian Soda Open Mic (open mic) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.5

Open Mic (open mic) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free. The Ribbit Review Open Mic & Jam (open mic) at Lily’s Pad, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Black Flannel After Hours Comedy Night (comedy) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 9:30 p.m. Free.

SAT.1

Ashley Gutermuth (comedy) at Grange Theatre, South Pomfret, 7-9 p.m. $20-$25.

SUN.2

Open Mic Comedy Night (comedy open mic) at Zachary’s Pizza, Milton, 5:30 p.m. Free.

TUE.4

Open Mic Comedy with Levi Silverstein (comedy open mic) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.5

Challenge Wheel (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

trivia, karaoke, etc.

WED.29

Karaoke Friday Night with Jenny Red (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

comedy

WED.29

Sanity Rockefeller’s Spelling Bee Rockefeller (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5/$10.

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

THU.30

Madelein Murphy (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10/$15. ‘Pet Store: A Live Sitcom’ (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5/$10.

FRI.31

Ashley Gutermuth (comedy) at Grange Theatre, South Pomfret, 7-9 p.m. $20-$25.

Karaoke Friday Night with Jenny Red (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Radio Bean Karaoke (karaoke) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 10:30 p.m. Free.

SUN.2

Karaoke with DJ Coco Entertainment (karaoke) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 5 p.m. Free.

Sunday Funday (games) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, noon. Free.

Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

MON.3

Trivia Monday (trivia) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Monday with Top Hat Entertainment (trivia) at McKee’s Original, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Barr Hill, Montpelier, 5:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Brain (trivia) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Craig Mitchell (trivia) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.4

Trivia Night (trivia) at Dumb Luck Pub and Grill Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.30

Boots & Burgers (line dancing) at Afterthoughts, Waitsfield, 7 p.m. Free.

Karaoke Friday Night with Jenny Red (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free. Karaoke Night (karaoke) at the Tropic Brewing, Waterbury, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

FRI.31

Ecstatic Dance Reiki & Sound Healing (dance) at Community of Sound, Burlington, 6 p.m. $5-$25 suggested donation.

Karaoke with DJ Party Bear (karaoke) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9:30 p.m. Free.

Taproom Trivia (trivia) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Trivia Tuesday (trivia) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.5

Karaoke Friday Night with Jenny Red (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Dumb Luck Pub and Grill Winooski, 7 p.m. Free. ➆

may have missed.

calendar

JANUARY 29-FEBRUARY 5, 2025

WED.29

business

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS

NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL

GROUP: Savvy businesspeople make crucial contacts at a weekly chapter meeting. BCA Center, Burlington, 11:15 a.m.1 p.m. Free. Info, 829-5066.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: A drop-in meetup welcomes knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers and other fiber artists. BYO snacks and drinks. Must Love Yarn, Shelburne, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3780.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘FAR OUT: LIFE ON & AFTER THE COMMUNE’: 1960s counterculture in rural America is illuminated in this award-winning 2024 documentary blending contemporary interviews with archival footage. A discussion follows. Essex Cinemas & T-Rex Theater, 7 p.m. $12.50-15. Info, 878-4200.

‘PAPSURA: PEAK OF EVIL’: Audience members gather in the taproom for a special screening of Patagonia’s newest winter sports film. Lawson’s

Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 496-4677.

‘UNDERDOG’: Viewers delight in this 2021 documentary exploring the fascinating tale of Doug Butler, a Vermont dairy farmer who longs to be a dog musher in Alaska. A Q&A with the director follows. Norwich Public Library, 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 262-2626.

food & drink

COMMUNITY COOKING: Neighbors join up with the nonprofit’s staff and volunteers to make a yummy meal for distribution. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

VEGAN IN VERMONT: Folks following a plant-based diet connect with others, explore Finnish recipes and listen to guest speaker Meg Jones. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-3403.

WATERBURY WINTERFEST: VT

BEER QUIZ: Brew lovers put their taste buds to the test with a sensory exploration of six different IPAs. Blackback Pub, Waterbury, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12. Info, waterburywinterfest@ gmail.com.

games

CHESS CLUB: Players of all ages and abilities test their skills with instructor Robert and

These community event listings are sponsored by the WaterWheel Foundation, a project of the Vermont band Phish.

LIST YOUR UPCOMING EVENT HERE FOR FREE!

All submissions must be received by Thursday at noon for consideration in the following Wednesday’s newspaper. Find our convenient form and guidelines at sevendaysvt.com/postevent

Listings and spotlights are written by Rebecca Driscoll Seven Days edits for space and style. Depending on cost and other factors, classes and workshops may be listed in either the calendar or the classes section. Class organizers may be asked to purchase a class listing.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

lovers enjoy a foot-stomping good time and cozy outdoor fire pits to beat the chill. Prohibition Pig Brewery, Waterbury, 5-7:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, waterburywinterfest@gmail.com. québec

peers. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: Waterbury Public Library instructor Diana Whitney leads at-home participants in gentle stretches supported by seats. 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

holidays

LUNAR NEW YEAR

CELEBRATION: Revelers usher in the Year of the Snake with a feast of traditional foods, a festive parade and themed crafts. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

language

PARLIAMO ITALIANO: The Vermont Italian Cultural Association hosts an evening for speakers, both beginner and native, to practice the language of love. Pearl Street Pizza, Barre, 5-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, vtitalianculturalassoc@ gmail.com.

music

FARMERS NIGHT: DAVID

FEURZEIG: A Vermont professor and pianist known for his current quest to play a concert in every Vermont town builds awareness of climate change through his musical compositions. House Chamber, Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 262-2626.

ME2 CHORUS REHEARSAL: Conductor Stefanie Weigand leads vocalists ages 16 and up in a stigma-free, supportive environment. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, phoenix@ me2music.org. WATERBURY WINTERFEST: BLUEGRASS NIGHT: Music

FIND MORE LOCAL EVENTS IN THIS ISSUE AND ONLINE: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art. film

See what’s playing in the On Screen section. music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/music.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: Canadian troupe Centaur Theatre treats musical lovers to a new, English-language version of a Québécois classic. Centaur Theatre, Montréal, 8 p.m. $22-68. Info, 514-288-3161.

seminars

FILMING IN THE STUDIO: Media enthusiasts walk through the process of conducting interviews on set while switching between cameras and utilizing chroma-keyed backgrounds. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

SUSPENSION 101: Cyclists learn more about their ride’s many parts and their functions. Bootlegger Bikes Jeffersonville, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 644-8370.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE TENNIS

CLUB: Ping-Pong players swing their paddles in singles and doubles matches. Rutland Area Christian School, 7-9 p.m. Free for first two sessions; $30 annual membership. Info, 247-5913.

theater

‘KING JAMES’: Northern Stage raises the curtain on Rajiv Joseph’s powerful play following two NBA superfans and their shared worship of LeBron James. Barrette Center for the Arts, White River Junction, 7:30 p.m. Various prices. Info, 296-7000.

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’: Audience members find a lot right with Vermont Stage’s Olivier Award-winning whodunit set in the 1920s. Ages 12 and up. Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $3454 sliding scale. Info, 862-1497.

words

NOONTIME POETRY READING SOCIETY: Verse lovers link up to share their work, reflect and write creatively. Pierson Library, Shelburne, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

DUNCAN WATSON: A New Hampshire author and storyteller reads from his new book, Everyone’s Trash: One Man Against 1.6 Billion Pounds, followed by a conversation with fellow writer Lisa Garner. Still North Books & Bar, Hanover, N.H., 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 603-676-7846.

THU.30

agriculture

VERMONT FARM SHOW

FEEDBACK SESSION: Folks with an interest in agriculture and working landscapes gather for a conversation about the future of this annual event. Vermont

Farmers Food Center, Rutland, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, vermontfarmshow@gmail.com.

business

GROW YOUR BUSINESS: Shelburne BNI hosts a weekly meeting for local professionals to exchange referrals and build meaningful connections. Connect Church, Shelburne, 8:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 377-3422.

REIGNITE ROTARY: Community members learn more about how they can make a lasting difference at an evening of networking and inspiration. Hampton Inn, Colchester, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister; cash bar. Info, info@ cmrotary.org.

crafts

KNITTING GROUP: Knitters of all experience levels get together to spin yarns. Latham Library, Thetford, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

WOODWORKING LAB: Visionaries create a project or learn a new skill with the help of mentors and access to tools and equipment in the makerspace. Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, 5-8 p.m. $7.50. Info, 382-1012.

etc.

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE: Audience members come on down at an interactive, live stage version of the legendary television game show. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $50-70. Info, 775-0903.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: Audience members are guided through an exploration of stunning animal worlds, from frozen snowy forests to the darkest depths of the ocean. Dealer.com 3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m., 12:30, 2:30 & 4:30 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: Never-beforeseen footage brings audience members to the farthest reaches of the coldest, driest, windiest continent on Earth. Dealer.com 3D

Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: Andy Serkis narrates the journey of a lifetime into the realm of the world’s largest mammals and the scientists who study them. Dealer.com 3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, noon, 2 & 4 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘FAR OUT: LIFE ON & AFTER THE COMMUNE’: See WED.29.

FILM & MEDIA CULTURE SCREENING: Middlebury College seniors present their film projects, created with varying modes and styles. Dana Auditorium, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, 7-10 p.m. Free. Info, 443-3190.

‘REMEMBER WINTER’: Viewers take in a thought-provoking short film that explores changing seasons in the Northeast. Livak Ballroom, Dudley H. Davis Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 201-448-5940.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: Incredible CGI and revelations in tyrannosaur paleontology help to chronicle a remarkable discovery in the badlands of Hell Creek. Dealer.com

3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11:30 a.m., 1:30 & 3:30 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

food & drink

CHEESE & BEER PAIRING: Foodies explore the best products that our region has to offer in an intimate culinary experience. Ages 21 and up. Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 6-7:30 p.m. $55. Info, 496-4677.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: Snacks and coffee fuel bouts of a classic card game. Burlington Bridge Club, Williston, 12:30-4 p.m. $6. Info, 872-5722.

WEEKLY CHESS FOR FUN: Players of all ability levels face off and learn new strategies. United Community Church, St. Johnsbury, 5:30-9 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, lafferty1949@gmail.com.

language

ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUP: Semi-fluent speakers practice their skills during a conversazione with others. Best for those who can speak at least basic sentences. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

music

WATERBURY WINTERFEST: WASSAILING: Carolers gather for the ultimate downtown music crawl, featuring funky beats, crazy costumes and clever lyrics. Downtown Waterbury, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, waterburywinterfest.com.

québec

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: See WED.29.

seminars

PEER LEADER TRAINING: The Get Healthy North Country Community Integrated Health Network hosts a virtual seminar for community members interested in helping others recognize the signs and symptoms commonly linked to chronic health conditions. 9-11:30

FAMI LY FU N

Check out these family-friendly events for parents, caregivers and kids of all ages.

• Plan ahead at sevendaysvt.com/family-fun Post your event at sevendaysvt.com/postevent.

WED.29

burlington

STEAM SPACE: Kiddos in grades K to 5 explore science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics with fun and engaging activities. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

TODDLER TIME: Librarians bring out books, rhymes and songs specially selected for young ones 12 to 24 months. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

BABY TIME: Infants and their caregivers enjoy a slow, soothing story featuring songs, rhymes and lap play. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

GAME ON!: Kids take turns collaborating with or competing against friends using Nintendo Switch on the big screen. Caregivers must be present to supervise children below fifth grade. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

PLAYGROUP & STORY TIME: Caregivers and kids through age 5 listen to stories, sing songs and share toys with new friends. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 434-3036.

THU.30

burlington

BABY & ME CLASS: Parents and their infants ages birth to 1 explore massage, lullabies and gentle movements while discussing the struggles and joys of parenthood. Greater Burlington YMCA, 9:45-10:45 a.m. $10; free for members. Info, 862-9622.

BABY TIME: Pre-walking little ones experience a story time catered to their infant interests. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

GROW PRESCHOOL YOGA: Colleen from Grow Prenatal and Family Yoga leads kids ages 2 to 5 in songs, movement and other fun activities. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

AFTERSCHOOL MATINEE: ‘ABOMINABLE’: Young patrons follow the epic quest of three teenagers as they attempt to return a yeti to his family in this 2019 animated feature. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

FEB. 2 | FAMILY FUN

Snake It Off

Addison County BIPOC+ mounts its second annual Lunar New Year Celebration at Middlebury’s Town Hall Theater, a family-friendly day of good fortune, storytelling and feasting. In keeping with traditional Chinese zodiac celebrations across the globe, the community event ushers in the Year of the Snake with glowing paper lanterns and a 20-foot serpent puppet, as well as dancing, calligraphy and crafts from different Asian cultures. Later, attendees get physical with tae kwon do — or simply sit back and observe others breaking a sweat, including Chinese fan dancers and Korean samulnori drummers.

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Sunday, February 2, 11:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m., at Town Hall Theater in Middlebury. Free; preregister. Info, 382-9222, townhalltheater.org.

required. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

LIZA WOODRUFF: A Vermont author and illustrator reads her latest children’s book, Phil’s Big Day: A Groundhog’s Story then kiddos chow down on pancakes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

barre/montpelier

MONTPELIER WINTERFEST: See FRI.31.

mad

river valley/ waterbury

SATURDAY STORY TIME: Stories and songs help young children develop social and literacy skills. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

brattleboro/okemo valley

WINTER SUNSHINE SERIES: ‘THE SNOWFLAKE MAN’: Puppeteer Sarah Frechette pulls the strings on a visually stunning stage production inspired by the life of Wilson “Snowflake” Bentley. Sandglass Theater, Putney, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. $8-12. Info, 387-4051.

SUN.2 burlington

MASKS ON! SUNDAYS: Elderly, disabled and immunocompromised folks get the museum to themselves at a masks-mandatory morning. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 9-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 864-1848.

chittenden

county

mad river valley/ waterbury

PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH LINDA BASSICK: The singer and storyteller extraordinaire guides wee ones ages birth to 5 in indoor music and movement. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

PRESCHOOL PLAY TIME: Pre-K patrons play and socialize after music time. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

STORY TIME: Little ones ages birth to 5 learn from songs, crafts and picture books. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

barre/montpelier

POKÉMON CLUB: I choose you, Pikachu! Elementary and teenage fans of the franchise — and beginners, too — trade cards and play games. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

STORY TIME: Kids and their caregivers meet for stories, songs and bubbles. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

stowe/smuggs

WEE ONES PLAYTIME: Caregivers bring kiddos 3 and younger to a new sensory learning experience each week. Morristown Centennial Library, Morrisville, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3853.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: COOKING: Students in grades 4 through 8 make delicious homemade dishes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4041.

BUSY BEES PLAYGROUP: Blocks, toys, books and songs engage little ones 24 months and younger. Waterbury Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

northeast kingdom

ACORN CLUB STORY TIME: Youngsters 5 and under play, sing, hear stories and color. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391.

FRI.31

burlington

VISIT WITH VASYA: Kiddos of all ages flock to the beloved therapy dog for a bit of unconditional love. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

LEGO BUILDERS: Mini makers explore and create new worlds with stackable blocks. Recommended for ages 6 and up. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

barre/montpelier

LEGO CLUB: Budding builders create geometric structures with snap-together blocks. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

MONTPELIER WINTERFEST: Horse-drawn wagon rides, face painting and soapbox racing make for a wintry weekend to remember. See montpelieralive.com for full schedule. Various Montpelier locations. Free. Info, 223-9604.

STORY TIME & PLAYGROUP: Participants ages 5 and under enjoy themed science, art and nature activities. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

upper valley

STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

SAT.1

burlington

FAMILY PLAYSHOP: Wee ones ages birth to 5 explore a range of themes and rotating activities designed to promote school readiness and foster creativity. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

LEGO TIME: Mini makers ages 4 to 11 design and build original, colorful creations. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 802.863.3403.

chittenden county

INTRO TO CODING: Teens use JavaScript to create their own Mad Libs and Spirograph games. No experience

SOCIAL SUNDAYS: Crafty folks participate in fun and educational art activities with diverse mediums and themes. All supplies and instruction provided. Milton Artists’ Guild Art Center & Gallery, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

barre/montpelier

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: Families usher in the Year of the Snake with dancing, crafts and ssssssstorytelling from different Asian traditions. See calendar spotlight. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 11:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 382-9222. MONTPELIER WINTERFEST: See FRI.31.

outside vermont

COME AS YOU ARE FILM SERIES: ‘E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL’: Kids delight in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 blockbuster about a gentle alien who befriends a young boy named Elliott. Lebanon Opera House, N.H., 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 603-448-0400.

MON.3 burlington

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Bookworms ages 2 to 5 enjoy a fun-filled reading time. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403. chittenden county

ART LAB DROP-IN: Helpful librarians assist kiddos in twisting, weaving and knotting a colorful bracelet for themselves or a friend. Brownell Library,

a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 315-261-4760, ext. 239.

talks

JESS WIKLE: The University of Vermont research forest manager discusses new threats to our woodlands, from severe weather patterns to invasive insects and pathogens. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 6:30-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 229-6206.

SAM TALKS: WILLIAM

EDELGLASS: In “A History of the Concept of Race,” a professor of philosophy sheds light on Western concepts of race, from prehistory to today. Hosted by St. Albans Museum and the Vermont Humanities Speakers Bureau. Noon-1:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 527-7933.

WATERBURY WINTERFEST:

BRIAN LINDNER: A local historian shares fascinating facts about the region’s ski industry in “The Lost Ski Areas of Waterbury.” Waterbury Municipal Building, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, waterburywinterfest@gmail.com.

theater

‘THE EFFECT’: Shaker Bridge Theatre raises the curtain on Lucy Prebble’s drama following two clinical trial volunteers who strike up a sudden and illicit romance. Briggs Opera House, White River Junction, 7 p.m. $38-45. Info, 281-6848.

‘KING JAMES’: See WED.29.

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’: See WED.29.

‘PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL’: A Tony Award-winning creative team brings one of Hollywood’s most iconic on-screen romances to life. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $34.17104.50. Info, 863-5966.

words

BEN GOLDFARB: The acclaimed author of Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet discusses ecological harms wrought by transportation — and the movement to redress them. Hosted by the Green Mountain Club. 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7037.

COLIN CALLOWAY: A Dartmouth College professor and author reads from his 2024 novel, Hard Neighbors: The Scotch-Irish Invasion of Native America and the Making of an American Identity. Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

GEORGE’S MYSTERY BOOK GROUP: Patrons chat about Kate Atkinson’s twisty page-turners Case Histories and Life After Life with resident whodunit expert George Spaulding. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 6:15 p.m. Free. Info, gspaulding@ kellogghubbard.org.

FRI.31

community

WATERBURY WINTERFEST:

BLOCK PARTY:

congregate on Elm Street for an afternoon of live tunes, beer and wine tastings, demos, prizes, and tasty treats. Downtown Waterbury, 3-8 p.m. Free. Info, waterburywinterfest@gmail.com.

etc.

ALPHA FILM SERIES: members enjoy a meal, watch a brief video and share their perspectives on faith in an informal, friendly environment. St. John Vianney Parish Hall, South Burlington, 6:15-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 864-4166.

fairs & festivals

SUBARU WINTERFEST: music lovers and their canine friends accumulate for a weekend of food, drink and live performanc es. Killington Resort, 9 a.m. Free. Info, 800-734-9435.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: THU.30.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’:

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

‘DREAM SEASON’: Winter sports enthusiasts get stoked for a DIY snowboarding flick filmed in Vermont, Canada and Alaska. Double E Performance Center, Essex, 7 p.m. $10. Info, 878-4200.

‘HEAD STRETCHERS SOCIETY’: Viewers take in seven short films exploring the lives of intrepid Vermonters who challenge perceptions. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7 p.m. $20. Info, 660-2600.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

food & drink

COZY & CANDLELIT: ITALIAN NIGHT: Mangiamo! Gastronomes do it like they do in Roma with an epic multicourse feast, cocktails and sweet treats. Adventure Dinner Clubhouse, Colchester, 6-9 p.m. $75. Info, sas@adventuredinner.com.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.30, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

health & fitness

GUIDED MEDITATION

ONLINE: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library invites attendees to relax on their lunch breaks and reconnect with their bodies. Noon-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@ damlvt.org.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION: Community members gather for an informal session combining stimulating discussion, sharing and sitting in silence. Pathways

Bilingual Buzz

Billboard magazine hails Sonia De Los Santos as “one of the Latin children’s music artists you should know.” Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, Santos and her indomitable allfemale band assume the spotlight at Dartmouth College’s Rollins Chapel in Hanover, N.H., for a bilingual program titled “Música.” Through undeniably catchy Spanish and English songs, this family-friendly concert honors the many intrepid women who make music — particularly those who have inspired Santos and her bandmates. Imbued with traditional Latin American rhythms ranging from cumbia to festejo, Santos’ performance lifts listeners of all ages out of their seats and into the spirit of the joyous beat.

SONIA DE LOS SANTOS

Saturday, February 1, 4-5:30 p.m., at Rollins Chapel, Dartmouth College, in Hanover, N.H. $20. Info, 603-646-2422, hop.dartmouth.edu.

Vermont, Burlington, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS CAN EXERCISE: Folks get their bodies moving with a low-impact program that keeps joints flexible and muscles strong. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 241-4840.

language

FRENCH SOCIAL HOUR: The Alliance Française of the Lake Champlain Region hosts a rendez-vous over cocktails. Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; cash bar. Info, bbrodie@aflcr.org.

lgbtq

RPG NIGHT: Members of the LGBTQ community get together weekly for role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Everway. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:308:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.

music

APRÈS-SKI SERIES: LIZ REEDY:

An indie singer-songwriter plays soothing acoustic tunes in a cozy winter setting. Middlebury College Snow Bowl, Hancock, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 443-7600.

LANE SERIES: MICHELLE CANN & TOMMY MESA: A lauded pianist and virtuosic cellist take the stage for an evening of skillful playing. University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $5-40. Info, 656-4455.

ROCK CITY: More than 50 local singers and musicians perform songs from the ’60s and beyond. Proceeds benefit Our House of Central Vermont. Barre Elks Lodge, 7:30-8:30 p.m. $10-20. Info, 552-3447.

québec

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: See WED.29.

talks

HENRY POLLOCK & JON

LEIBOWITZ: The executive director of Southern Plains Land Trust and the president of Northeast Wilderness Trust compare differing regional approaches to rewilding. Hosted by Northeast Wilderness Trust. 6:30-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 224-1000.

tech

PHONE & TECH SUPPORT:

Perplexed patrons receive aid from library staff on a first-come, firstserved basis. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 863-3403.

theater

‘THE EFFECT’: See THU.30.

‘KING JAMES’: See WED.29.

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’: See WED.29.

‘PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL’: See THU.30.

SAT.1 dance

BERLIN CONTRA DANCE: Dancers of all ages and abilities learn at a gathering that encourages joy, laughter and friendship. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. See website for callers and bands. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 8-11 p.m. $5-20 sliding scale. Info, 225-8921.

DANCE WEAR SWAP: Gently used ballet shoes, leotards and tights escape the landfill and find new homes. Dance and Movement Center, Barre, 2-4 p.m. By donation. Info, 622-0332.

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON

WINTER WARM-UP CELEBRATION:

Revelers celebrate how far the arts venue has come with an evening of socializing, live music and dancing. Montpelier Performing Arts Hub, 7-10:30 p.m. By donation; preregister. Info, 798-6717.

PINK FLOYD LASER

SPECTACULAR: Hey, you! Fans experience the iconic band’s original master recordings paired with mind-blowing visuals. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7-9 p.m. $35.5045.50. Info, 775-0903.

SISTERHOOD CAMPFIRE: Women and genderqueer folks gather in a safe and inclusive space to build community through journaling, storytelling, gentle music and stargazing. Leddy Park, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, sisterhoodcampfire@gmail.com.

WATERBURY WINTERFEST: ICE

SKATING DISCO: Locals don their favorite funky outfits for a funfilled night of dancing, karaoke, costume contests and prizes. The Ice Center, Waterbury, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, waterburywinterfest@ gmail.com.

fairs & festivals

SUBARU WINTERFEST: See FRI.31, 6:30 a.m.

WINTER RENAISSANCE FAIRE: Medieval merrymakers engage with artisans and crafters while enjoying mead, live demonstrations and jousting. Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-30; free for kids under 6. Info, 778-9178.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.30.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.30.

‘BLUE VELVET’: The discovery of a severed human ear leads a young man on an unimaginable investigation in David Lynch’s 1986 erotic thriller. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

‘LOST HIGHWAY’: David Lynch’s 1997 psychological thriller stars Patricia Arquette and Bill Pullman in a mesmerizing meditation on the nature of identity. The

Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 3 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR:

Outdoor sports fans gear up for a documentary film festival showcasing stories about world-class athletes and social justice issues. Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, 7 p.m. $10-20. Info, 362-1405.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.30. WOODSTOCK VERMONT FILM SERIES: ‘COMMON GROUND’: “Regenerative pioneers” join forces to restore our nation’s soil using ecological farming in this 2023 documentary. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 3-5 p.m. $1215. Info, 457-2355.

food & drink

CAPITAL CITY WINTER FARMERS

MARKET: Locavores sip cocktails while perusing root veggies, honey, crafts and maple syrup at an off-season showcase of locally grown food. Barr Hill, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 472-8000.

games

CEMETERY COMMITTEE BINGO: Players vie for cash prizes at this weekly event to support cemetery improvements. St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Vergennes, 5-9 p.m. $5 per 10 games. Info, 877-2367.

CHESS CLUB: All ages and abilities face off and learn new strategies. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

D&D & TTRPG GROUP: Fans of Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games embark on a new adventure with a rotating cast of game masters. Virtual option available. Waterbury Public Library, 1-5 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

LEARN TO PLAY MAH-JONGG: Expert tile trader Pauline Nolte leads players through the Chinese and American versions of the ancient game. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

PUZZLE RACE: Teams of all ages race to complete a jigsaw puzzle the fastest for a chance to win prizes. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 223-3338. SAT.1 » P.62

health & fitness

WATERBURY WINTERFEST: INTRO TO TOTAL BODY RESISTANCE:

Personal trainer and fitness guru Joey Clark guides participants in a revolutionary workout method that uses body weight and gravity. Dave’s Community Fitness of Waterbury, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, waterburywinterfest@gmail.com.

music

RAMBLETREE: Come along for the craic! Local musicians Daniel Brown and Reagh Greenleaf Jr. play a dynamic mix of homegrown material, world music and Celtic folk tunes. O’Dwyer’s Public House, Killington, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 779-4114.

RANI ARBO & DAISY MAYHEM: An acclaimed folk quartet brings fourpart harmonies, unforgettable lyrics and a homemade percussion kit to the stage. Virtual option available. Next Stage Arts, Putney, 7:30 p.m. $15-28. Info, 387-0102.

SATURDAY NIGHT SOUNDS: Listeners leave stress behind while experiencing the healing power of a sound machine built in Uruguay. The Magnetica Performance Space, Burlington, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $30. Info, events@ themagnetica.com.

SONIA DE LOS SANTOS: A Latin Grammy Award nominee leads listeners on a bilingual journey celebrating women who make music. See calendar spotlight. Rollins Chapel, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 4-5:30 p.m. $20. Info, 603-646-2422.

outdoors

MONTHLY BIRDING OUTING:

Bird lovers of all interests and experience levels gather to enjoy Vermont’s resident wild avians. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 8-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 229-6206.

WATERBURY WINTERFEST:

PARTY IN THE PARK: Folks flock to a flurry of wintry activities, including snow sports for kids, fat tire bike demos, snow volleyball and a bocce tournament. Rusty Parker Memorial Park, Waterbury, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free; preregister for tournament. Info, waterburywinterfest@gmail.com.

québec

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: See WED.29.

seminars

CPR & AED TRAINING:

Representatives from the American Heart Association lead a community workshop featuring life-saving stories and hands-on instruction. A potluck follows. Virtual option available. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 225-8921.

sports

WONDERTEE INDOOR GOLF

TOURNAMENT: Teams of six take on an exciting 18-hole course for a chance to win prizes. Proceeds benefit Wonderfeet Kids’ Museum.

Stonehenge Indoor Golf, Rutland, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 779-9595.

talks

LUIS VIVANCO: A University of Vermont professor of anthropology rolls through the fascinating history of when the bicycle first came to Vermont. A Q&A follows. Bootlegger Bikes Jeffersonville, 4:30-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 644-8370.

tech

PHONE & TECH SUPPORT: See FRI.31. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington.

theater

‘THE EFFECT’: See THU.30, 2:30 & 7 p.m.

‘KING JAMES’: See WED.29, 6:30 p.m.

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’: See WED.29, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

words

CABIN FEVER BOOK SALE: Bookworms browse gently used titles to keep them occupied this winter. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free; cost of books. Info, 863-3403.

ELLY SWARTZ: A New England author reads from her latest novel, Same Page followed by a conversation with local librarians Jillian Van Ells and Becca Sexton. Norwich Bookstore, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

USED BOOK SALE: Lit lovers peruse a wide array of like-new books to benefit Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury United Methodist Church, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; cost of books. Info, 388-4095. WRITE NOW!: Writers of all experience levels hone their craft in a supportive and critique-free environment. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-3338.

SUN.2 agriculture

COMMUNITY SEED SWAP: Local gardeners and farmers gather to share seeds, knowledge and company. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

community

HUMAN CONNECTION CIRCLE: Neighbors share stories from their lives and forge deep bonds. Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, humanconnectioncircle@ gmail.com.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.29, 1-3 p.m.

dance

TWO-STEP DANCE: Happy feet learn how to Texas two-step and line dance, followed by an evening of salsa, cha-cha and beyond. Artistree Community Arts Center,

OPENS FEB. 2 | QUÉBEC

Never Let Go

The off-Broadway smash hit Titanique triumphantly returns to the Segal Centre for Performing Arts in Montréal for an eagerly awaited encore. After a red-hot run last fall, audiences just can’t get enough of the campy, all-Canadian production meshing fellow Canuck superstar Céline Dion with James Cameron’s über-blockbuster, Titanic Since premiering in New York, the musical parody has amassed rave reviews from both critics and viewers, becoming an instant stage classic with showstopping performances of “My Heart Will Go On” and “To Love You More.” As People magazine confirms, “You’re guaranteed to laugh your iceberg off.”

‘TITANIQUE’

Sunday, February 2, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Monday, February 3, through Wednesday, February 5, 7:30 p.m., at Sylvan Adams Theatre, Segal Centre for Performing Arts, in Montréal. See website for future dates. $75-99. Info, 514-739-7944, segalcentre.org.

South Pomfret, 5-8 p.m. $20. Info, 457-3500.

fairs & festivals

SUBARU WINTERFEST: See FRI.31.

WINTER RENAISSANCE FAIRE: See SAT.1.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.30.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.30.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

‘MULHOLLAND DRIVE’: Naomi Watts and Laura Harring star in David Lynch’s 2001 psychological drama about a Hollywood hopeful’s encounter with an enigmatic amnesiac. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 3 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

ISRAEL FILM FESTIVAL: Jewish Voice for Peace presents a special screening of From Ground Zero — a collection of 22 short films made in Gaza. Savoy Theater, Montpelier, 4-6 p.m. $8.50-10.50. Info, 229-0598.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

WOODSTOCK VERMONT FILM SERIES: ‘COMMON GROUND’: See SAT.1.

food & drink

VIRTUAL PASTA COOKING CLASS: Foodies of all ages and abilities learn how to make delicious dishes that blend Italian tradition with fresh New England ingredients. Hosted by Trenchers Farmhouse. 5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 650-224-5533.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.30, 1-4:30 p.m.

music

COSY SHERIDAN: A folk singer-songwriter brings a percussive, bluesy guitar style and thoughtful, experienced lyricism to the stage. Roots & Wings Coffeehouse at UUCUV, Norwich, 4-5:45 p.m. $13.20. Info, 649-8828.

THE MAGNETICA SOUND BATH: Audiences experience the healing power of a sound, light and music generator built in Uruguay. The Magnetica Performance Space, Burlington, 3-4 p.m. $30. Info, events@themagnetica.com.

WILLIAM LEE ELLIS: An acclaimed guitarist plays toe-tapping Americana and blues tunes. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.

outdoors

WATERBURY WINTERFEST: SKI & SNOWSHOE TOUR: Outdoor adventurers embark on a moderate three-mile journey featuring picturesque giant rocks and scenic views of the Little River. Blush Hill Country Club, Waterbury, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, waterburywinterfest@gmail.com.

WILDLIFE TRACKING CLUB: Naturalists teach trackers of all ages how to distinguish the snowy paw prints of Vermont mammals. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 229-6206.

québec

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: See WED.29.

‘TITANIQUE’: Theatergoers revel in the campy chaos of this off-Broadway smash hit musical featuring the songs of Céline Dion. See calendar spotlight. Sylvan Adams Theatre, Segal Centre for Performing Arts, Montréal, 2 & 7:30 p.m. $75-99. Info, 514-739-7944.

seminars

health & fitness

KARUNA COMMUNITY

MEDITATION: A YEAR TO LIVE (FULLY): Participants practice keeping joy, generosity and gratitude at the forefront of their minds. Jenna’s House, Johnson, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, mollyzapp@live.com.

NEW LEAF SANGHA

MINDFULNESS PRACTICE: Newcomers and experienced meditators alike stretch their skills in the Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Hot Yoga Burlington, 6:30-8:15 p.m. Free. Info, newleafsangha@gmail.com.

holidays

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: Revelers ring in the Year of the Snake with a luncheon and traditional stage performances. Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School, South Burlington, noon-3 p.m. $10-20; free for kids under 3. Info, 307-6332.

ZERO TO SKETCH: Comedian Brian Hines leads comedy writers of all abilities in a collaborative mad dash to create a show to perform that same night. Off Center for the Dramatic Arts, Burlington, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, zerotosketch@gmail.com.

talks

CAROLYN PICAZIO & CHRISTOPER KAUFMAN ILLSTRUP: The Kellogg-Hubbard Library director of services and the Vermont Humanities Council executive director discuss what challenges lie ahead for the arts and humanities. Adamant Community Club, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 454-7103.

theater

‘THE EFFECT’: See THU.30, 2:30 p.m.

‘KING JAMES’: See WED.29, 5 p.m.

words

CABIN FEVER BOOK SALE: See SAT.1, noon-5 p.m.

Seth Zosky, Véronique Claveau and Mariah Campos

MON.3

business

CEDRR LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST: Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region members meet with Lt. Gov. John Rodgers over pancakes. Southside Steakhouse, Rutland, 7:30 a.m. $25; preregister. Info, 773-2747.

crafts

FUSE BEADS CLUB: Aspiring artisans bring ideas or borrow patterns to make beaded creations. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

etc.

VERMONT ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY MEETING: Celestial enthusiasts explore the basic concepts of astronomy and learn more about objects in outer space. Virtual option available. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, vtastro.president@ gmail.com.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.30.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.30.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

language

GERMAN LANGUAGE LUNCH:

Willkommen! Speakers of all experience levels brush up on conversational skills over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

lgbtq

BOARD GAME NIGHT: LGBTQ tabletop fans bring their own favorite games to the party. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.

québec

‘TITANIQUE’: See SUN.2, 7:30 p.m.

words

J. KEVIN GRAFFAGNINO: The historian discusses his latest book, Ira Allen: A Biography, shining new light on the politician’s prominent role in Vermont’s formative years. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

TUE.4 community

CURRENT EVENTS

DISCUSSION GROUP:

Brownell Library holds a virtual roundtable for neighbors to pause and reflect on the news cycle. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

dance

SWING DANCE PRACTICE

SESSION: All ages and experience levels shake a leg in this friendly, casual environment designed for learning. Bring clean shoes. Champlain Club, Burlington, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8382.

etc.

NEW MEMBER MEETUP: Media enthusiasts and professionals of all experience levels exchange ideas, collaborate and handle the production industry’s latest gear. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.30.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.30.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.30.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.30.

GAMES GALORE: Library patrons of all ages gather for bouts of board and card games. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

health & fitness

COMMUNITY MEDITATION: All experience levels engage in the ancient Buddhist practice of clearing

FAMI LY FU N

Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

READ WITH SAMMY: The Therapy Dogs of Vermont emissary listens to kiddos of all ages practice their reading. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

the mind to achieve a state of calm. First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 5:15-6 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 862-5630.

language

FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP: Francophones and language learners meet pour parler la belle langue. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE LUNCH: Speakers hone their skills in the Romance language over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

music

FLOW SINGING: Singers both new and seasoned intertwine music and mindfulness while learning a sequence of five to six songs by ear. Heineberg Senior Center, Burlington, 11:15 a.m.12:45 p.m. Free. Info, patricia@ juneberrymusic.com.

québec

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: See WED.29.

‘TITANIQUE’: See SUN.2, 7:30 p.m. seminars

EMPOWERED AGING SERIES: MYTHS & MYSTERIES OF SEX & AGING: AARP Vermont hosts an informative workshop exploring the vital aspects of sexual health and intimacy, specifically designed for individuals over 50. Noon-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, vt@ aarp.org.

PEER LEADER TRAINING: See THU.30.

words

BURLINGTON LITERATURE GROUP: Bookworms analyze Nobel laureate Saul Bellow’s novels Henderson the Rain King and Herzog over the course of nine weeks. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@nereadersand writers.com.

WRITING CIRCLE: Words pour out when participants explore creative expression in a low-pressure environment. Virtual option available. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

mad river valley/ waterbury

TODDLER TIME: Little tykes ages 5 and under have a blast with songs, stories, rhymes and dancing. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

TUE.4

burlington

SING-ALONG WITH LINDA BASSICK: Babies, toddlers and preschoolers sing, dance and wiggle along with Linda. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1111:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

WED.5

activism

DISABLED ACCESS & ADVOCACY OF THE RUTLAND AREA MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING: Community members gather online to advocate for accessibility and other disability-rights measures. 11:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 779-9021.

INFO SESSION FOR PROSPECTIVE COSA & REPARATIVE PANEL VOLUNTEERS: Compassionate and committed neighbors learn more about the restorative program for those seeking positive change after incarceration. Greater Barre Community Justice Center, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, cosa@barrecjc.org.

business

BUILDING BUZZ: LEVERAGING PUBLIC RELATIONS & EARNED MEDIA TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS: Cultivate PR founder Alexandra Tursi shares powerful tools for business owners to increase visibility, build credibility and drive engagement. Hosted by the Women Business Owners Network of Vermont. 8:30-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 503-0219.

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL GROUP: See WED.29.

VERMONT WOMENPRENEURS BIZ

BUZZ ZOOM: A monthly virtual networking meetup provides a space for female business owners to connect. 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 870-0903.

climate crisis

CLIMATE RESILIENCE FOR BUSINESSES: DATA & SUPPORT FOR ADAPTATION: A panel sheds light on how our changing climate impacts the local economy, from staffing to supply chains. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 5-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 223-3338.

community

VERMONT CIVIC HEALTH INDEX COMMUNITY FORUM: Neighbors gather to discuss the report’s results with Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 5:307:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 748-8291.

chittenden county

STORY TIME: Youngsters ages birth to 5 enjoy a session of reading, rhyming and singing. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

barre/montpelier

STORY TIME: See THU.30.

northeast kingdom

LAPSIT STORY TIME: Babies 2 and under learn to love reading, singing and playing with their caregivers. Siblings welcome. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.29.

etc.

CHAMP MASTERS TOASTMASTERS CLUB: Those looking to strengthen their speaking and leadership skills gain new tools. Virtual option available. Dealer.com, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, champmasterstm@gmail.com.

food & drink

COMMUNITY COOKING: See WED.29.

games

CHESS CLUB: See WED.29.

CHESS TIME: Neighbors partake in the ancient game of strategy. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: See WED.29.

holidays

CHINESE NEW YEAR: Philanthropic foodies ring in the Year of the Snake with wine and traditional dishes. Proceeds benefit the Flynn. A Single Pebble, Burlington, 6 p.m. $150; preregister. Info, 863-5966.

language

SPANISH CONVERSATION: Fluent and beginner speakers brush up on their vocabulario with a discussion led by a Spanish teacher. Presented by Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 5-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@damlvt.org.

music

RAMBLETREE: See SAT.1. Two Brothers Tavern, Middlebury, 7-9 p.m.

ME2 CHORUS REHEARSAL: See WED.29.

ST. J BLUEGRASS JAM: Players and fans get together for some old-time picking and fiddling. St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church of St. Johnsbury, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 748-2600.

québec

‘STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY’: See WED.29.

WED.5

burlington

STEAM SPACE: See WED.29. TODDLER TIME: See WED.29.

chittenden county

PLAYGROUP & STORY TIME: See WED.29.

barre/montpelier

VALENTINE’S DAY POP-UP CARDS: Ellen Bresler teaches little library patrons how to bring paper to life with a few folds and cuts. Kids 8 and under

‘TITANIQUE’: See SUN.2, 7:30 p.m. seminars HOW IT WORKS: BASIC BICYCLE ANATOMY & MAINTENANCE: Cyclists learn more about important bike parts and what they do. Bootlegger Bikes St. Albans, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 782-8747.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE TENNIS CLUB: See WED.29.

theater

‘KING JAMES’: See WED.29, 11 a.m. ‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’: See WED.29.

words

FARMERS NIGHT: KENNETH M. CADOW: A Vermont Reads author shares his experience traveling throughout the state to discuss his acclaimed young adult novel, Gather. House Chamber, Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 262-2626.

NOONTIME POETRY READING SOCIETY: See WED.29. ➆

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM

must be accompanied by an adult. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 4-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 426-3581.

mad river valley/ waterbury

TEEN HANGOUT: Middle and high schoolers make friends at a no-pressure meetup. Waterbury Public Library, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

TEEN QUEER READS: LGBTQIA+ and allied youths get together each month to read and discuss ideas around gender, sexuality and identity. Waterbury Public Library, 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. K

THE FOLLOWING CLASS LISTINGS ARE PAID ADVERTISEMENTS. ANNOUNCE YOUR CLASS FOR AS LITTLE AS $16.75/WEEK (INCLUDES SIX PHOTOS AND UNLIMITED DESCRIPTION ONLINE). SUBMIT YOUR CLASS AD AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTCLASS.

craft

2025 CRAFT WORKSHOPS:

In addition to the regular chairmaking and jewelry workshops, this year we are hosting guest instructors who teach dry stone walling, natural dyes, broom making, Shaker boxes, plant pressing, basket weaving, bowl carving and more. Gift certiﬁcates available. Location: Handmade Charlotte. Info: Eric Cannizzaro, 360-528-1952, ericcannizzaro.com.

family

SEX-POSITIVE PARENTING:

Online class for parents. How do we raise kids to love and respect their bodies, practice consent, and enjoy pleasure without shame? How and when do we talk with kids about sex? Parents learn how to set kids up for a

fulﬁlling sexual future with less shame and more pleasure. 3 u., noon-1 p.m. Cost: $75 for 3 1-hr. classes. Location: Zoom. Info: Goodrich Sexuality Education, Sarah Goodrich, 310-2061, sarah@goodrichsex.com, goodrichsex.com.

kids

HORSEBACK RIDING SUMMER CAMPS: Activities at camp include twice-daily riding lessons every day, horse care, arts and crafts, nature walks, water play, games, and more. Ages 3 and up. Offered to current and new clients. Jun.-Aug., Mon.- u., 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $400 for full-day option. Other options also avail. Location: Rabidoux Performance Horses, 599 Silver St., Hinesburg. Info: Jessica Rabidoux, 310-5767, rabidoux.lh@gmail.com.

language

JAPANESE LANGUAGE CLASSES: Interested in Japanese culture and/or travel to Japan? Love learning new languages? ree levels of interactive, online Japanese language classes will be offered in spring 2025, starting the week of Feb. 10. Join us for an introduction to speaking, listening, reading and writing Japanese, using everyday conversational patterns. Level 1, Mon.; Level 2, Tue.; Level 3, Wed. All classes 7-8:30 p.m. Cost: $250 for 10 weekly 1.5-hour classes. Location: Online. Info: 825-8335, jasvlanguage@gmail.com, jasv.org/language.

martial arts

AIKIDO: THE POWER OF HARMONY: Cultivate core power, aerobic ﬁtness and resiliency. e dynamic, circular movements emphasize throws, joint locks and the development of internal energy. Join our community and ﬁnd resiliency, power and grace. Inclusive training, gender-neutral dressing room/bathrooms and a safe space for all. Visitors are always welcome to watch a class! Vermont’s only intensive aikido programs. Membership rates incl. unlimited classes 6 days/week. Contact us for info about membership rates for adults, youths & families. Location: Aikido of Champlain Valley, 257 Pine St.,

Burlington. Info: Benjamin Pincus, 951-8900, bpincus@burlingtonaikido.org, burlingtonaikido.org.

music

TAIKO TUESDAYS, DJEMBE WEDNESDAYS!: Learn to drum with Stuart Paton! Drop-ins welcome. Tuesdays: Kids & Parents Taiko, 4-5:30 p.m.; Adult Intro Taiko, 5:30-7 p.m.; Accelerated Taiko, 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays: Intermediate Djembe, 5:30-7 p.m.; Beginner Djembe, 7-8:30 p.m. Drums provided. Cost: $92 for 4 weeks of 90-min. classes; $72/ person for Kids & Parents class. Location: Taiko Studio, 208

Flynn Ave., Burlington. Info: Stuart, 999-4255, classes@ burlingtontaiko.org.

well-being

DECOLONIZE YOUR BODY

RETREAT: One-day retreat to decolonize our bodies, minds and spirits. We’ll break from prescribed roles based on gender, race, age, ability, etc. and come home to our bodies through movement and reimagine ourselves through art. is will be a rich day of unlearning, relearning and embodying. Sun., Feb. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $125. Location: e Wellness Collective, 875 Roosevelt Hwy., Colchester. Info: Goodrich Sexuality Education, Sarah Goodrich, 310-2061, sarah@ goodrichsex.com, goodrichsex.com.

HIGH OCTAVE LIVING: is winter, work on life skills. Develop your most valuable

personal strengths as you practice mindful living. Positive psychology has distilled the Wisdom of the Ages into a new language of human ﬂourishing. Learn the basics in this seven-week course and enjoy a richer life experience. Tue. evenings starting Feb. 4, 7-9 p.m. Cost: $240 ﬂex pricing for 1, 2 or 3 persons; 7 2-hr. live group Zoom classes (maximum 12 participants). Location: Online. Info: Werner John, 272-5397, werner@evolvetogether.net, evolvetogether.net.

Find and purchase tickets for these and other classes at sevendaystickets.com.

= TICKETED CLASS

housing » APARTMENTS, CONDOS & HOMES on the road » CARS, TRUCKS, MOTORCYCLES pro services » CHILDCARE, HEALTH/ WELLNESS, PAINTING

buy this stuff » APPLIANCES, KID STUFF, ELECTRONICS, FURNITURE music » INSTRUCTION, CASTING, INSTRUMENTS FOR SALE jobs »

NO SCAMS, ALL LOCAL, POSTINGS DAILY

Capulet & Montague Humane Society of Chittenden County

AGE/SEX: 1-year-old spayed female and neutered male

ARRIVAL DATE: January 17, 2024

SUMMARY: Capulet and Montague are patiently awaiting their happy ending! But there are no star-crossed lovers here: Siblings Montague (the handsome boy) and Capulet (the sweet girl) are the best of friends, and they’re are searching for a home where they can stay together. is young, energetic pair are sure to keep you entertained with their playful antics. ey’re both good-natured and friendly, and when they’re ready for some relaxation, they love a belly rub. Learn more about these fair felines on our website, and visit our adoption center to see if they could make your house their home.

DOGS/CATS/KIDS: Capulet and Montague have lived with other cats and enjoyed their company. We have no history of them with dogs or children.

Visit the Humane Society of Chittenden County at 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. or Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m. Call 862-0135 or visit hsccvt.org for more info.

DID YOU KNOW?

Cats need enrichment, too! Providing stimulating activities such as interactive playtime, high places to climb, window perches and food puzzles can help mitigate a variety of common behavior concerns such as hyperactivity and ankle-biting.

CLASSIFIEDS

housing ads: $25 (25 words) legals: 52¢/word buy this stuff: free online

services: $12 (25 words) fsbos: $45 (2 weeks, 30 words, photo) jobs: michelle@sevendaysvt.com, 865-1020 x121

on the road

CARS/TRUCKS

2024 FORD MAVERICK AWD XLT in terrain w/ sunroof, EcoBoost, AWD, 4K towing package. 1,600 miles. $38,150. Please have your ﬁnancing in place. Located in southern Rutland County. Call 518-364-3786 or email jettaguy2@aol.com.

housing FOR RENT

FOR RENT

2-BR, 1-BA apt. for rent in a fantastic location! Freshly painted &

renovated. 10-foot ceiling & HDWD. Heat incl. $2,000/mo. Sec. dep. req. Avail. Feb. 1. Located at 37 Gove Ct. in Burlington. Info: jjgibbs239@gmail.com.

ROOMY 3-BR & 2-BR AVAIL. NOW

Heated, extra roomy 3-BR, now $1,700 + utils. Heated 2-BR, now $1,500. Call Joe at 802-318-8916.

FURNISHED STUDIO APT.

Fully furnished studio apt. avail. now in Essex Jct. Utils. incl. Walking distance to local stores, restaurants & the bus. $1,300/mo. Info, andrea. vanliew@gmail.com, 802-318-0605.

HOUSEMATES

ENJOY THE WIDE-OPEN SPACES

Spacious rural home in Bolton to share w/ active woman in her 60s who enjoys hikes, meditation, travel. Seeking dog-friendly housemate to help w/ yard work, occasional pet care. $450/mo. 30 mins. to Burlington. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont.

org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

NNE HOMESHARE W/ TENNIS, POOL

Share New North End townhome near the lake in Burlington w/ kind retiree who enjoys meditation & reading. Furnished BR, private BA, shared modern kitchen.

$600/mo. + cooking 2 meals/week. Access to tennis/pool. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont. org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

Online Auction Closes: Tuesday, Feb. 4 @ 10AM Preview: Thursday, Jan. 30 from 11AM-1PM

4 Locations in Vermont Visit thcauction.com for more info 4.2

AUTO

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY

Running or not! Fast, free pickup. Maximum tax deduction. Support Patriotic Hearts. Your car donation helps veterans! Call 1-866-559-9123. (AAN CAN)

OVERPAYING FOR INSURANCE?

A recent survey says most Americans are overpaying for their car insurance. Let us show you how much you can save. Call now for a no-obligation quote: 1-866-472-8309. (AAN CAN)

COMPUTER

CONSULTING POS/ INVENTORY

Seeking consulting work in inventory management & POS development & implementation. Mainly Square, but open to new systems. Detail-oriented. Will design exactly what you need. Email hhabich@ msn.com.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and similar Vermont statutes which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, handicap, presence of minor children in the family or receipt of public assistance, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or a discrimination. The newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate, which is in violation of the law. Our

readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. Any home seeker who feels he or she has encountered discrimination should contact:

HUD Ofﬁce of Fair Housing 10 Causeway St., Boston, MA 02222-1092 (617) 565-5309 — OR — Vermont Human Rights Commission 14-16 Baldwin St. Montpelier, VT 05633-0633 1-800-416-2010 hrc@vermont.gov

Online Auction Closes: Thursday, Feb. 6 @ 11AM

Preview: Monday, Feb. 3 from 11AM-1PM

COUNSELING

SUICIDE LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Support for people w/ loss to suicide. Meetings 1st Wed. of each mo., 6-7 p.m., at the S. Burlington Comfort Inn. Contact Bob at 802-922-4283 or Aya at 802-881-3606.

TIRED OF THERAPY FOR YEARS?

Rapid Transformational erapy often brings major relief in 1 to 3 sessions. Upgrade your brain, upgrade your life! New Year’s special: $250. Info, sandimeyler.com, 802-878-5169.

HEALTH/ WELLNESS

BIO HACK WELLNESS 2025!

You upgrade & update devices. What about your brain? Rapid Transformational erapy frees us from land mines in our heads! Interested? New Year’s special: $250. Info, 802-878-5169, sandimeyler.com.

print deadline: Mondays at 3:30 p.m. post ads online 24/7 at: sevendaysvt.com/classiﬁeds questions? classiﬁeds@sevendaysvt.com 865-1020 x115

February 4 @ 11AM

Road,

Online Auction Closes: Thursday, Feb. 13 @ 10AM

Preview: Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 11AM-1PM Located in Vergennes, VT 05491 Visit thcauction.com for more info

HOME/GARDEN

24-7 LOCKSMITH

We are there when you need us for home & car lockouts. We’ll get you back up & running quickly! Also, key reproductions, lock installs & repairs, vehicle fobs. Call us for your home, commercial & auto locksmith needs! 1-833-237-1233. (AAN CAN)

ARBOR HILL TREE FARM

Live trees. Potted & ﬁeld grown. 2 to 20 feet. Hardwood, evergreen, fruit trees, berry plants. Grown in Eden. State inspected. 1-year warranty. Info, 802-309-4063, arborhilltreefarm@ outlook.com.

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE?

You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind its work. Fast, free estimate. Financing avail. Call 1-888-292-8225. Have the zip code of the property ready when calling! (AAN CAN)

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES

In as little as 1 day! Affordable prices. No payments for 18 mos. Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts avail. Call 1-866-370-2939. (AAN CAN)

DEREKCO LLC

DerekCo Carpentry & Excavating has all of your carpentry & excavating needs covered! Visit our website & contact us for a free estimate. Info, 802-310-4090, derek@derekco.com, derekco.com.

NEED NEW WINDOWS?

Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energyefﬁcient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & free quote today. 1-877248-9944. You will be asked for the zip code of the property when connecting. (AAN CAN)

PEST CONTROL

Protect your home from pests safely & affordably. Roaches, bedbugs, rodents,

termites, spiders & other pests. Locally owned & affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-237-1199. (AAN CAN)

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION

A small amount of water can lead to major damage & mold growth in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family & your home’s value! Call 24-7: 1-888-290-2264. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! (AAN CAN)

MOVING/HAULING

MARKOSKI’S MOVE & HAUL

Markoski’s has established a local reputation for being a team of friendly professionals who treat their customers like family. Based out of Chittenden County, we go across Vermont & out of state. Contact Rick at rickmarkoski@gmail. com, & please browse our reviews & jobs on Facebook & Front Porch Forum.

TOP CASH PAID FOR OLD GUITARS 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromber + Gibson mandolins & banjos. Call 877-589-0747. (AAN CAN)

WANT TO BUY

PAYING TOP CASH FOR MEN’S SPORT WATCHES Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner & Speedmaster. Call 888-320-1052. (AAN CAN)

PORSCHE WANTED Old & rusty OK! Don’t ship to Germany; keep in Vermont! I’ll buy anything & restore. Parts, panels, engines, cars. Any year, 1950-1998. Contact 802-391-0882.

Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, ll the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.

CLASSIFIEDS » Show and tell. View and post up to 6 photos per ad online.

Sudoku

Complete the following puzzle by using the numbers 1-9 only once in each row, column and 3 x 3 box.

Open 24/7/365. Post & browse ads at your convenience. Extra! Extra! There’s no limit to ad length online.

WANT MORE PUZZLES?

Try these online news games from Seven Days at sevendaysvt.com/games.

Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test.

CALCOKU

BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HH

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A one-box cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column.

SUDOKU

BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers one to nine. The same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.

ON P.68

See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.

Legal Notices

TOWN OF ESSEX

FY 2025 ADA COMPLIANT SIDEWALK RAMPS

The Town of Essex invites you to prepare a Bid for the FY 2025 ADA Compliant Sidewalk Ramps Project. Work associated with this Project is to take place between April 1st , 2025 (Weather dependent) and June 20th, 2025. Bid packages are available at the Town Public Works Office, 5 Jericho Road, Essex Center or by e-mail to dgregoire@essex.org. Sealed bids will be received at the Town of Essex Public Works Office or mailed to the Town of Essex, Department of Public Works, 81 Main Street Essex Jct., VT 05452 until 10:00 AM on Friday, February 14th, 2025. Questions can be directed to the Town Public Works Office at (802) 878-1344.

THE CONTENTS OF STORAGE UNIT 02-00250,

Located at 48 Industrial Ave, Williston, VT 05495

Will be sold on or about the 5th of February 2025 to satisfy the debt of Jennifer Blow, any person claiming a right to the goods may pay the amount claimed due and reasonable expenses before the sale, in which case the sale may not occur.

ACT 250 NOTICE

MINOR APPLICATION 4C0573-6A

10 V.S.A. §§ 6000 - 6111

Application 4C0573-6A from Munson Way, LLC, 85 Shunpike Road, South Burlington, VT 05407 was received on December 20, 2024, and deemed complete on January 21, 2025. The project is generally described as the expansion of the self-storage facility by adding additional storage units. Additionally, this project proposes modifications to the existing stormwater system at the Discount Store property to bring the site and associated subdivision into compliance with the State’s new 3-acre requirements. The project is located at 53 and 54 Munson Way in Williston, Vermont. The application may be viewed on the Natural Resources Board’s website (https://act250.vermont.gov/) by clicking “Act 250 Database” and entering the project number “4C0573-6A.”

No hearing will be held and a permit will be issued unless, on or before February 11, 2025, a party notifies the District 4 Commission in writing of an issue requiring a hearing, or the Commission sets the matter for a hearing on its own motion. Any person as defined in 10 V.S.A. § 6085(c)(1) may request a hearing. Any hearing request must be in writing, must state the criteria or sub-criteria at issue, why a hearing is required, and what additional evidence will be presented at the hearing. Any hearing request by an adjoining property owner or other person eligible for party status under 10 V.S.A. § 6085(c)(1)(E) must include a petition for party status under the Act 250 Rules. To request party status and a hearing, fill out the Party Status Petition Form on the Board’s website: https:// act250.vermont.gov/documents/party-statuspetition-form, and email it to the District 4 Office at: Act250.Essex@vermont.gov. Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law may not be prepared unless the Commission holds a public hearing.

For more information contact Peter Kopsco at the address or telephone number below.

Dated this January 22, 2025. By: Peter Kopsco District Coordinator 111 West Street Essex Junction, VT 05452 (802) 261-1947 peter.kopsco@vermont.gov

ACT 250 NOTICE MINOR APPLICATION 4C0051-3A 10 V.S.A. §§ 6000 - 6111

Application 4C0051-3A from City of Burlington Parks, Recreation and Waterfront (BPRW), 645 Pine Street, Suite B, Burlington, VT 05401 was received on January 13, 2025 and deemed complete on January 22, 2025. The project is generally described as construction of the remaining portions of the project previously approved under LUP 4C0051-3, namely rehabilitation and improvements to public restrooms to make them universally accessible and addition of signage. The project is located on Flynn Avenue in Burlington, Vermont. The application may be

viewed on the Land Use Review Board’s website (https://act250.vermont.gov/) by clicking “Act 250 Database” and entering the project number “4C0051-3A.”

No hearing will be held and a permit will be issued unless, on or before February 13, 2025, a party notifies the District 4 Commission in writing of an issue requiring a hearing, or the Commission sets the matter for a hearing on its own motion. Any person as defined in 10 V.S.A. § 6085(c) (1) may request a hearing. Any hearing request must be in writing, must state the criteria or sub-criteria at issue, why a hearing is required, and what additional evidence will be presented at the hearing. Any hearing request by an adjoining property owner or other person eligible for party status under 10 V.S.A. § 6085(c)(1)(E) must include a petition for party status under the Act 250 Rules. To request party status and a hearing, fill out the Party Status Petition Form on the Board’s website: https://act250.vermont.gov/ documents/party-status-petition-form, and email it to the District 4 Office at: Act250.Essex@ vermont.gov. Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law may not be prepared unless the Commission holds a public hearing.

For more information contact Stephanie H. Monaghan at the address or telephone number below.

Dated this January 22, 2025. By: Stephanie H. Monaghan District Coordinator 111 West Street Essex Junction, VT 05452 802-261-1944 stephanie.monaghan@vermont.gov

BURLINGTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2025, 5:00 PM PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Hybrid & In Person (at 645 Pine Street) Meeting

Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83225696227 pwd=SGQ0bTdnS000Wkc3c2J4WWw1dzMxUT09 Webinar ID: 832 2569 6227 Passcode: 969186

Telephone: US +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

1. ZPF-25-3; 1 North Avenue (RC, Ward 3) City of Burlington / Carrie Cobb

Proposed variance for clear sight triangle to construct a fence around Burlington Police Department’s North Parking lot for security.

Plans may be viewed upon request by contacting the Department of Permitting & Inspections between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Participation in the DRB proceeding is a prerequisite to the right to take any subsequent appeal. Please note that ANYTHING submitted to the Zoning office is considered public and cannot be kept confidential. This may not be the final order in which items will be heard. Please view final Agenda, at www.burlingtonvt.gov/dpi/ drb/agendas or the office notice board, one week before the hearing for the order in which items will be heard.

The City of Burlington will not tolerate unlawful harassment or discrimination on the basis of political or religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, disability, HIV positive status, crime victim status or genetic information. The City is also committed to providing proper access to services, facilities, and employment opportunities. For accessibility information or alternative formats, please contact Human Resources Department at (802) 540-2505.

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-06474

In re ESTATE of June D. Nadeau

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: June D. Nadeau, late of Essex Junction, VT.

I have been appointed to administer this estate. All creditors having claims against the decedent or the estate must present their claims in writing within four (4) months of the date of the first publication of this notice. The claim must be presented to me at the address listed below with a copy sent to the Court. The claim may be barred forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: January 22, 2025

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Launa L. Slater

Executor/Administrator: Jay C. Nadeau, c/o Launa L. Slater, Wiener & Slater, PLLC, 110 Main St., Suite 4F, Burlington, VT 05401 Phone: 802-863-1836 Email: launa@wsvtlaw.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 01/29/2025

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-06138

In re ESTATE of David Neville NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: David Neville, late of Essex Junction

forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: January 22, 2025

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Launa L. Slater

Executor/Administrator: William Neville, c/o Launa L. Slater, PLLC, 110 Main St., Suite 4F, Burlington, VT 05401

Phone: 802-863-1836

Email: launa@wsvtlaw

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 01/29/2025

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

WARNING OF THE 102ND ANNUAL WINOOSKI CITY MEETING

The legal voters of Winooski are hereby warned and notified to meet at the Winooski School District Auditorium on March 3, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss Article Two, Article Three, Article Four & Article Five to conduct an informational meeting on the Australian Ballot questions. A public hearing will coincide with the informational meeting to discuss Article Four & Article Five (Advisory & Non-Binding).

The meeting to be adjourned and to reconvene at the Winooski Senior Center, 123 Barlow Street on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 to transact any business involving voting by Australian Ballot to begin at 7:00 a.m. in the morning and closing at 7:00 p.m.

The legal voters of the City of Winooski are further notified that voter qualification, registration and absentee voting relative to said meeting shall be as provided in Vermont Statutes Annotated Title 17 Chapters 43, 51 and 55, and Act No. M-6 (H.227)

Article One

To elect (2) City Councilors for a term of two (2) years each.

Article Two- City Budget

Shall the voters of the City of Winooski approve the budget for the Fiscal Year 2026 in the amount of Eleven Million Two Hundred Eighty-Eight Thousand One Hundred Twenty-Two dollars and Forty-Nine Cents ($11,288,122.49). The amount to be raised from property taxes is Eight Million Six Hundred Forty-Eight Thousand Five Hundred Eighty-Three Dollars and Forty-Nine Cents ($8,648,583.49).

Article Three

Shall the City Council be authorized to apply for and accept funds from sources other than property taxation, and to expend the same for the benefit of the City in addition to sums for which budget appropriation has been made? (Approval of this article will not impact property taxes.)

Article Four

Shall the Charter of the City of Winooski, Acts of 2013, No. M-9, as amended, be further amended to give the City Council the power to provide by ordinance protections for residential tenants from evictions without ‘just cause’ by adopting and adding a new subsection 304(b)(13) to read as follows:

“304(b)(13)(A) To provide by ordinance protections for residential tenants, as defined in Chapter 137 of Title 9 of the Vermont Statutes

Annotated, from eviction without ‘just cause,’ where just cause shall include, but is not limited to:

1. a tenant’s material breach of a written rental agreement,

2. a tenant’s violation of state statutes regulating tenant obligations in residential rental agreements,

3 .non-payment of rent, and

4. a tenant’s failure to accept written, reasonable, good faith renewal terms.

(B) Such ordinance shall exclude from ‘just cause’ the expiration of a rental agreement as sole grounds for termination of tenancy. In addition to the exemptions in VSA Chapter 137 of Title 9, the ordinance shall exempt from this provision,

subject to mitigation provisions, sublets and in-unit rentals as well as the following properties but not limited to:

1. owner-occupied duplexes, and triplexes;

2. those being withdrawn from the rental market, including properties to be occupied by the owner or an immediate family member as a primary residence; and

3. those in need of substantial renovations which preclude occupancy

1. mitigate potential negative impacts on tenants and property owners, including but not limited to requirements of adequate notice and reasonable relocation expenses,

2. provide for a reasonable probationary period after initial occupancy, and

3. limit unreasonable rent increases to prevent de facto evictions or nonrenewals, although this shall not be construed to limit rents beyond the purpose of preventing individual evictions.

(D) The ordinance shall define what is ‘reasonable’ and ‘adequate notice’ in defining just cause and shall require that landlords provide notice of just cause and other legal requirements as part of the rental agreement.”?

Article Five (Advisory Non-Binding)

Shall the voters of the City of Winooski advise the Mayor and the City Council to adopt the following pledge?

“WE AFFIRM our commitment to freedom, justice, and equality for the Palestinian people and all people; and

WE OPPOSE all forms of racism, bigotry, discrimination, and oppression; and

WE DECLARE ourselves an apartheid-free community, and to that end,

WE PLEDGE to join others in working to end all support to Israel’s apartheid regime, settler colonialism, and military occupation.

Dated at Winooski, Vermont this 21st day of January,2025

s/s Kristine Lott

Mayor Kristine Lott

s/s Thomas Renner

Deputy Mayor Thomas Renner

s/s Bryn Oakleaf

Councilor Bryn Oakleaf

s/s Aurora Hurd

Councilor Aurora Hurd

s/s Charles Judge

Councilor Charles Judge

TOWN OF JERICHO – PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 4444, the Jericho Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 7:00 pm in the Jericho Town Hall, 67 VT Route 15, Jericho, Vermont, to hear public comment regarding proposed amendments to the Jericho Land Use and Development Regulations.

Summary of Amendments to Regulations

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: The primary purposes of the proposed amendments are to change the residential density per minimum lot area by zoning districts in four zones that allow residential use, enabling most residential uses allowed in each zone to be permitted on the minimum lot for each zone.

LIST OF SECTION HEADINGS: The amendments include changes to Section 5.6: Density and Section 13: Planned Unit Development Review.

GEOGRAPHIC AREA AFFECTED: These amendments affect areas of the Town in Village Center, Commercial, Village, and Low Density Residential districts.

PLACE WHERE FULL TEXT MAY BE EXAMINED: The complete text of the amendedregulations may be found at https://jerichovt.org/bylawamendments. Alternatively, a full-text copy may be examined in the Planning and Zoning office, Jericho Town Hall, 67 VT Route 15, Jericho, Vermont.

PERSON TO CONTACT: Additional information pertaining to these proposed amendments may be obtained by contacting Chris Shaheen Town Planner, at the Jericho Town Hall by calling (802) 899-2287 x 103 during regular office hours.

Chris Shaheen, Town Planner Town of Jericho

TOWN OF RICHMOND

DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA

FEBRUARY 12, 2025, AT 7:00 PM

Location: 3rd floor meeting room Richmond Town Offices, 203 Bridge Street Richmond VT, 05477

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89057870483

Meeting ID: 890 5787 0483

Call-in: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

Application materials may be viewed at http://www.richmondvt.gov/boardsminutes/ development-review-board/ before the meeting. Please call Tyler Machia, Zoning Administrator, at 802-434-2430 or email tmachia@richmondvt. gov with any questions.

Public Hearing

Item 1.

SUB2025-02 Matthew Parisi Parcel ID#EM0112

Project Location: 112 & 114 East Main Street

1. Project Description: The Applicant is seeking final approval for a proposed 3 lot Residential Planned Unit Development. Lot 1 contains a preexisting duplex. Lot 2 contains a preexisting single-family home. Proposed lot 3 would be common land.

2. Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or ex parte communication.

Other Business

1. Public discussion on changes to the Development Review Boards rules and procedures and possible revisions.

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

PROBATE DIVISION WINDSOR UNIT

DOCKET NO.: 25-PR-00071

In re ESTATE of John Winn NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: John Winn, late of Sharon, Vermont

Dated: January 24, 2025

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ John C. Winn

Executor/Administrator: John C. Winn, PO Box 66, Burlington, VT 05402

Phone: 802-865-6326

Email: acusick-loecher@sheeheyvt.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 01/29/2025

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontWindsor Probate Division Address of Probate Court: 55 Railroad Row, White River Junction, VT 05091

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-08039

In re ESTATE of Elizabeth A. Sabens

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Elizabeth A. Sabens, late of Williston, Vermont.

presented to me at the address listed below with a copy sent to the Court. The claim may be barred forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: 01/23/2025

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Katherine Hudson-Sabens

Executor/Administrator: Katherine HudsonSabens c/o David E. Peterson, Esq., Gravel & Shea PC, PO Box 369, Burlington, VT 05401

Phone: 802-658-0220

Email: dpeterson@gravelshea.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 01/29/2025

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

PROPOSED STATE RULES

By law, public notice of proposed rules must be given by publication in newspapers of record. The purpose of these notices is to give the public a chance to respond to the proposals. The public notices for administrative rules are now also available online at https://secure.vermont.gov/ SOS/rules/ . The law requires an agency to hold a public hearing on a proposed rule, if requested to do so in writing by 25 persons or an association having at least 25 members.

To make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities or special needs please call or write the contact person listed below as soon as possible.

To obtain further information concerning any scheduled hearing(s), obtain copies of proposed rule(s) or submit comments regarding proposed rule(s), please call or write the contact person listed below. You may also submit comments in writing to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, State House, Montpelier, Vermont 05602 (802-828-2231).

Licensing Requirements for Pharmacy Benefit Managers. Vermont Proposed Rule: 25P006

AGENCY: Department of Financial Regulation

CONCISE SUMMARY: Following the passage of Act 127 in 2024, the Department of Financial Regulation was directed to adopt rules to establish the licensing application, financial and reporting requirements for PBMs. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are intermediaries between health insurance companies and drug manufacturers. They negotiate prescription drug prices with manufacturers and separately, they negotiate the reimbursement payable to pharmacies to dispense the drugs.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Susan Morris, Assistant General Counsel, Department of Financial Regulation, 89 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-3101 Tel: 802-798-6059 E-Mail: Susan.Morris@vermont.gov URL: https://dfr. vermont.gov/about-us/legal-general-counsel/ proposed-rules-and-public-comment.

FOR COPIES: Dan Raddock, Assistant General Counsel, Department of Financial Regulation, 89 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-3101 Tel: 802371-8980 E-Mail: Dan.Raddock@vermont.gov.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

TOWN OF JERICHO, VERMONT

General Notice

Town of Jericho (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project:

Bridge 40 Improvements

Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at Jericho Town Hall, 67 Vermont Route

Legal Notices

[CONTINUED]

15, PO Box 39, Jericho, VT 05465, until February 11, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. At that time the Bids received will be opened and reviewed.

The Project includes the following Work: Bridge 40 and Old Pump Road Improvements.

Engineer’s construction cost estimate is $100,000 to $200,000.

Obtaining the Bidding Documents

PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LEGAL-NOTICES OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 142.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: East Engineering, PLC, Richmond, VT

Prospective Bidders may obtain the Bidding Documents at East Engineering, by appointment only, and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office.

Printed copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office by paying

Support Groups

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS FOR MOTHERS OF COLOR

Please join our parent-led online support group designed to share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Wed., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@ pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt.org. family-support-programs.

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS FOR SINGLE MOTHERS

Please join our parent-led online support group designed to share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Fri., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt.org/family-support-programs.

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS W/ LGBTQ+ CHILDREN

Please join our parent-led online support group designed to share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Mon., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt.org/family-support-programs.

AL-ANON

For families & friends of alcoholics. Phone meetings, electronic meetings (Zoom) & an Al-Anon blog are avail. online at the Al-Anon website. For meeting info, go to vermontalanonalateen.org or call 866-972-5266.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Do you have a drinking problem? AA meeting sites are now open, & online meetings are also avail. Call our hotline at 802-864-1212 or check for in-person or online meetings at burlingtonaa.org.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups meet to provide assistance & info on Alzheimer’s disease & related dementias. They emphasize shared experiences, emotional support & coping techniques in care for a person living w/ Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Meetings are free & open to the public. Families, caregivers & friends may attend. Please call in advance to confirm the date & time. The Williston caregiver support group meets in person on the 2nd Tue. of every mo., 5-6:30 p.m., at the the Old Brick Church in Williston. Contact support group facilitators Molly at dugan@cathedralsquare.org or Mindy at moondog@ burlingtontelecom.net. The Middlebury support group for individuals w/ early stage dementia meets the 4th Tue. of each mo., 3 p.m., at the Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd., Middlebury. Contact is Daniel Hamilton, dhamilton@residenceottercreek. com or (802) 989-0097. The Shelburne support group for individuals w/ early stage dementia meets the 1st Mon. of every mo., 2-3 p.m., at the Residence at Shelburne Bay, 185 Pine Haven Shores,

Shelburne. Contact is support group facilitator Lydia Raymond, lraymond@residenceshelburnebay.com. The telephone support group meets the 2nd Tue. of each mo., 4-5:30 p.m. Preregistration is required (to receive dial-in codes for toll-free call). Please dial the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline, 800-2723900, for more info. For questions or additional support group listings, call 800-272-3900.

BABY BUMPS SUPPORT GROUP FOR MOTHERS & PREGNANT WOMEN

Pregnancy can be a wonderful time of your life. But it can also be a time of stress often compounded by hormonal swings. If you are a pregnant woman, or have recently given birth & feel you need some help w/ managing emotional bumps in the road that can come w/ motherhood, please come to this free support group led by an experienced pediatric registered nurse. Held on the 2nd & 4th Tue. of every mo., 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Birthing Center, Northwestern Medical Center, St. Albans. Info: Rhonda Desrochers, Franklin County Home Health Agency, 527-7531.

ANXIETY RELIEF GROUP

Anxiety Relief Group is a safe setting for relaxing & exploring your feelings w/ others through gentle socialization & self-expression, building up what makes you centered & strong. Wed., 4-5:30 p.m. Both in-person & Zoom options avail. In-person meetings are held at the Pathways Vermont Community Center at 279 N. Winooski Ave. in Burlington. Email us for the Zoom link & more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

BETTER BREATHERS CLUB

American Lung Association support group for people w/ breathing issues, their loved ones or caregivers. Meets on the 1st Mon. of every mo., 11 a.m.-noon, at the Godnick Center, 1 Deer St., Rutland. For more info, call 802-776-5508.

BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP

Vermont Center for Independent Living offers virtual monthly meetings, held on the 3rd Wed. of every mo., 1-2:30 p.m. The support group will offer valuable resources & info about brain injury. It will be a place to share experiences in a safe, secure & confidential environment. To join, email Linda Meleady at lindam@vcil.org & ask to be put on the TBI mailing list. Info: 800-639-1522.

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR DRAGON BOAT TEAM

Looking for a fun way to do something active & health-giving? Want to connect w/ other breast cancer survivors? Come join Dragonheart Vermont. We are a breast cancer survivor & supporter dragon boat team who paddle together in Burlington. Please contact us at info@dragonheartvermont.org for info.

BURLINGTON MEN’S PEER GROUP

Tue. nights, 7-9 p.m. in Burlington. Free of charge, 30 years running. Call Neils 802-877-3742 or email neils@myfairpoint.net.

$100 (nonrefundable). PDF electronic sets of the Bidding Documents are available free of charge to Contractors and $100 (non-refundable) for third-parties/plan holder rooms/construction publications.

Pre-bid Conference (Mandatory)

A mandatory pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on January 28, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. at the project site (44.508682, -72.993734). Bids will not be accepted from Bidders that do not attend the mandatory pre-bid conference.

Instructions to Bidders

CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM OR 802-865-1020 EXT. 115 TO UPDATE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The Champlain Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group meets online on the 2nd Tue. of the mo., 6-7:30 p.m., via Zoom. Whether you are newly diagnosed, dealing w/ a reoccurrence or trying to manage the side effects of treatment, you are welcome here! More info: Andy Hatch, group leader, ahatch63@gmail.com.

CENTRAL VERMONT CELIAC SUPPORT GROUP

Last Thu. of every mo., 7:30 p.m. in Montpelier. Please contact Lisa Masé for location: lisa@ harmonizecookery.com.

CEREBRAL PALSY GUIDANCE

Cerebral Palsy Guidance is a very comprehensive informational website broadly covering the topic of cerebral palsy & associated medical conditions. Its mission is to provide the best possible info to parents of children living w/ the complex condition of cerebral palsy. Visit cerebralpalsyguidance.com/ cerebral-palsy.

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS SUPPORT GROUP

The Compassionate Friends international support group for parents, siblings & families grieving the loss of a child meets every 4th Tue. of the mo., 7-9 p.m., at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 160 Hinesburg Rd, S. Burlington. Call/email Alan at 802-233-0544, alanday88@gmail.com, or Claire at 802-448-3569.

CONVERSATIONS ABOUT SUICIDE

Conversations About Suicide is a judgment-free & open space to talk about personal experiences of suicidal ideation. The group is facilitated by peer support staff w/ lived experience of suicidality. Thu., 4-5 p.m., at Pathways Vermont Community Center, located at 279 N. Winooski Ave. in Burlington. Email us for more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

DISABILITY SUPPORT GROUP

Our group is a space for mutual support, open to anybody who identifies as disabled, differently abled or having a disability. Whether your disability is visible, invisible, physical or cognitive, this group is for you! The group meets every 1st & 3rd Mon. of the mo., 1:15-2:15 p.m., at 279 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, VT, & online on Zoom. Email us for the Zoom link & more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT

Steps to End Domestic Violence offers a weekly drop-in support group for female-identified survivors of intimate partner violence, including individuals who are experiencing or have been affected by domestic violence. The support group offers a safe, confidential place for survivors to connect w/ others, to heal & to recover. In support group, participants talk through their experiences & hear stories from others who have experienced abuse in their relationships. Support group is also a resource for those who are unsure of their next step, even if it involves remaining in their current relationship. Tue., 6:30-8 p.m. Childcare is provided. Info: 658-1996.

Contractors interested in the project shall contact East Engineering for pre-qualification prior to obtaining bid documents or attending the pre-bid conference. For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

This Advertisement is issued by: Owner: Town of Jericho Engineer: East Engineering, PLC

FAMILY & FRIENDS OF THOSE EXPERIENCING MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

This support group is a dedicated meeting for family, friends & community members who are supporting a loved one through a mental health crisis. Mental health crisis might include extreme states, psychosis, depression, anxiety & other types of distress. The group is a confidential space where family & friends can discuss shared experiences & receive support in an environment free of judgment & stigma w/ a trained facilitator. Wed., 7-8:30 p.m. Downtown Burlington. Info: Jess Horner, LICSW, 866-218-8586.

FAMILY RESTORED: SUPPORT GROUP FOR FRIENDS & FAMILIES OF ADDICTS & ALCOHOLICS Tue., 6-7 p.m., the Turning Point Center, 179 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington. For further info, please visit thefamilyrestored.org or contact 207-387-0015.

FCA FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

Families Coping w/ Addiction (FCA) is an open community peer support group for adults (18+) struggling w/ the drug or alcohol addiction of a loved one. FCA is not 12-step-based but provides a forum for those living the family experience, in which to develop personal coping skills & to draw strength from one another. Our group meets every Wed., 5:30-6:30 p.m., live in person in the conference room at the Turning Point Center of Chittenden County (179 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington), &/or via our parallel Zoom session to accommodate those who cannot attend in person. The Zoom link can be found on the Turning Point Center website (turningpointcentervt.org) using the “Family Support” tab (click on “What We Offer”). Any questions, please send by email to thdaub1@ gmail.com.

FIERCELY FLAT VT

A breast cancer support group for those who’ve had mastectomies. We are a casual online meeting group found on Facebook at Fiercely Flat VT. Info: stacy.m.burnett@gmail.com.

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY ANONYMOUS (FA)

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? FA is a free 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia. Local meetings are held twice a week: Mon., 4-5:30 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Church, Norwich, Vt.; & Wed., 6:30-8 p.m., at Hanover Friends Meeting House, Hanover, N.H. For more info & a list of additional meetings throughout the U.S. & the world, call 603-630-1495 or visit foodaddicts.org.

G.R.A.S.P. (GRIEF RECOVERY AFTER A SUBSTANCE PASSING)

Are you a family member who has lost a loved one to addiction? Find support, peer-led support group. Meets once a mo. on Mon. in Burlington. Please call for date & location. RSVP to mkeasler3@gmail.com or call 310-3301 (message says Optimum Health, but this is a private number).

GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Sharing your sadness, finding your joy. Please join us as we learn more about our own grief & explore the things that can help us to heal. There is great power in sharing our experiences w/ others who know the pain of the loss of a loved one & healing is possible through the sharing. BAYADA Hospice’s local bereavement support coordinator will facilitate our weekly group through discussion & activities. Everyone from the community is welcome. 1st & last Wed. of every mo. at 4 p.m. via Zoom. To register, please contact bereavement program coordinator Max Crystal, mcrystal@bayada.com or 802-448-1610.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS

Meet every 2nd Mon., 6-7:30 p.m., & every 3rd Wed. from 10-11:30 a.m., at Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice in Berlin. The group is open to the public & free of charge. More info: Diana Moore, 224-2241.

GRIEVING A LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

A retired psychotherapist & an experienced life coach host a free meeting for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The group meets upstairs at All Souls Interfaith Gathering in Shelburne. There is no fee for attending, but donations are gladly accepted. Meetings are held twice a mo., the 1st & 3rd Sat. of every mo. from 10-11:30 a.m. If you are interested in attending, please register at allsoulsinterfaith.org. More info about the group leader at pamblairbooks.com.

INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS/PAINFUL BLADDER SUPPORT GROUP

Interstitial cystitis (IC) & painful bladder syndrome can result in recurring pelvic pain, pressure or discomfort in the bladder/pelvic region & urinary frequency/urgency. These are often misdiagnosed & mistreated as a chronic bladder infection. If you have been diagnosed or have these symptoms, you are not alone. For Vermont-based support group, email bladderpainvt@gmail.com or call 899-4151 for more info.

INTUITIVE EATING SUPPORT GROUP

Free weekly peer-led support group for anyone struggling w/ eating &/or body image. The only requirement is a desire to make peace w/ food & your body. Meeting format is: a short reading from Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole & Elyse Resch, 4th edition, followed by open sharing & discussion. Come find community through sharing struggles, experience, strength & hope. Located at the Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Sun. 1-2:30 p.m. Contact 202-553-8953 w/ any questions.

KINDRED CONNECTIONS PROGRAM OFFERED FOR CHITTENDEN COUNTY CANCER SURVIVORS

The Kindred Connections program provides peer support for all those touched by cancer. Cancer patients, as well as caregivers, are provided w/ a mentor who has been through the cancer experience & knows what it’s like to go through it. In addition to sensitive listening, Kindred Connections provides practical help such as rides to doctors’ offices & meal deliveries. The program has people who have experienced a wide variety of cancers. For further info, please contact info@vcsn.net.

LAUGHTER YOGA

Spontaneous, genuine laughter & gentle breathing for physical & emotional benefit. No yoga mat needed! This group is held every Mon., 2-3 p.m., at Pathways Vermont Community Center, 279 North Winooski Ave., Burlington. Contact Chris Nial for any questions: chrisn@pathwaysvermont.org.

LGBTQ SURVIVORS OF VIOLENCE

The SafeSpace Anti-Violence Program at Pride Center of Vermont offers peer-led support groups for survivors of relationship, dating, emotional &/or hate-violence. These groups give survivors a safe & supportive environment to tell their stories, share info, & offer & receive support. Support groups also provide survivors an opportunity to gain info on how to better cope w/ feelings & experiences that surface because of the trauma they have experienced. Please call SafeSpace at 863-0003 if you are interested in joining.

LGBTQ VETERANS

Share the struggles & celebrate the joys of being a service member & LGBTQIA+ in this peer-led

discussion group. Meetings are at the Rainbow Bridge Community Center in Barre on the 2nd & 4th Tue. of each mo. Visit rbccvt.org for more info.

LIVING THROUGH LOSS

Gifford Medical Center is announcing the restart of its grief support group, Living Through Loss. The program is sponsored by the Gifford Volunteer Chaplaincy Program & will meet weekly on Fri., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in Gifford’s Chun Chapel. Meetings will be facilitated by the Rev. Timothy Eberhardt, spiritual care coordinator, & Emily Pizzale MSW, LICSW, a Gifford social worker. Anyone who has experienced a significant loss over the last year or so is warmly invited to attend & should enter through the hospital’s main entrance wearing a mask on the way to the chapel. Meetings will be based on the belief that, while each of us is on a unique journey in life, we all need a safe place to pause, to tell our stories &, especially as we grieve, to receive the support & strength we need to continue along the way.

MARIJUANA ANONYMOUS

Do you have a problem w/ marijuana? MA is a free 12-step program where addicts help other addicts get & stay clean. Ongoing Mon., 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Burlington (Red Door Church) 21 Buell St., Burlington. Contact: jointsession@ newenglandma.org.

MYELOMA SUPPORT GROUP

Area myeloma survivors, families & caregivers have come together to form a Multiple Myeloma Support Group. We provide emotional support, resources about treatment options, coping strategies & a support network by participating in the group experience w/ people who have been through similar situations. 3rd Tue. of every mo., 5-6 p.m., at the New Hope Lodge on East Ave. in Burlington. Info: Kay Cromie, 655-9136, kgcromey@aol.com.

NAMI CONNECTION PEER SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS

Weekly virtual meetings. If you have questions about a group in your area, please contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont, program@namivt.org or 800-639-6480. Connection groups are peer recovery support group programs for adults living w/ mental health challenges.

NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

Weekly virtual & in-person meetings. ASL interpreters avail. upon request. Family Support Group meetings are for family & friends of individuals living w/ mental illness. If you have questions about a group in your area, please contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont, info@namivt. org or 800-639-6480.

NARCONON SUNCOAST DRUG & ALCOHOL REHABILITATION & EDUCATION

Narconon reminds families that overdoses due to an elephant tranquilizer known as Carfentanil have been on the rise in nearly every community nationwide. Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid painkiller 100 times more powerful than fentanyl & 1,000 times stronger than heroin. A tiny grain of it is enough to be fatal. To learn more about carfentanil abuse & how to help your loved one, visit narconon-suncoast.org/drug-abuse/parentsget-help.html. Addiction screenings: Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for a no-cost screening or referral: 1-877-841-5509.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS is a group of recovering addicts who live without the use of drugs. It costs nothing to join. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using. Held in Burlington, Barre & St. Johnsbury. Info, 862-4516 or cvana.org.

NARCANON BURLINGTON GROUP

Group meets every Mon. at 7 p.m., at the Turning Point Center, 179 S. Winooski Ave., Suite 301, Burlington. The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of addiction in a relative or friend. Info: Amanda H., 338-8106.

NEW (& EXPECTING) MAMAS & PAPAS! EVERY PRIMARY CAREGIVER TO A BABY! The Children’s Room invites you to join our weekly drop-in support group. Come unwind & discuss

and tell. View and post up to 6 photos per ad online. Open 24/7/365. Post & browse ads at your convenience.

your experiences & questions around infant care & development, self-care & postpartum healing, & community resources for families w/ babies. Tea & snacks provided. Thu., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bring your babies! (Newborn through crawling stage.) Located in Thatcher Brook Primary School, 47 Stowe St., childrensroomonline.org. Contact childrensroom@ wwsu.org or 244-5605.

NORTHWEST VERMONT CANCER PRAYER & SUPPORT NETWORK

A meeting of cancer patients, survivors & family members intended to comfort & support those who are currently suffering from the disease. 2nd Thu. of every mo., 6-7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 11 Church St., St. Albans. Info: stpaulum@myfairpoint.net. 2nd Wed. of every mo., 6-7:30 p.m., Winooski United Methodist Church, 24 W. Allen St., Winooski. Info: hovermann4@comcast. net.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (OA)

A 12-step program for people who identify as overeaters, compulsive eaters, food addicts, anorexics, bulimics, etc. No matter what your problem w/ food, we have a solution! All are welcome, meetings are open, & there are no dues or fees. See oavermont. org/meeting-list for the current meeting list, meeting format & more; or call 802-863-2655 anytime!

PONDERING GENDER & SEXUALITY

Pondering Gender & Sexuality is a twice-monthly facilitated mutual support group for folks of any identity (whether fully formed or a work in progress) who want to engage in meaningful conversations about gender, sexuality & sexual orientation, &/ or the coming-out process. Discussions can range from the personal to the philosophical & beyond as we work together to create a compassionate, safe & courageous space to explore our experiences. The group will be held on the 2nd Sun. & 4th Tue. of every mo., 1-2:30 p.m., either virtually or at Pride Center of Vermont. Email pgs@pridecentervt.org for more info or w/ questions!

POTATO INTOLERANCE SUPPORT GROUP

Anyone coping w/ potato intolerance & interested in joining a support group, contact Jerry Fox, 48 Saybrook Rd., Essex Junction, VT 05452.

QUEER CARE GROUP

This support group is for adult family members & caregivers of queer &/or questioning youth. It is held on the 2nd Mon. of every mo., 6:30-8 p.m., at Outright Vermont, 241 N. Winooski Ave. This group is for adults only. For more info, email info@outrightvt. org.

READY TO BE TOBACCO-FREE GROUPS

Join a free 4-5-week group workshop facilitated by our coaches, who are certified in tobacco treatment. We meet in a friendly, relaxed & virtual atmosphere. You may qualify for a free limited supply of nicotine replacement therapy. Info: call 802-847-7333 or email quittobaccoclass@uvmhealth.org to get signed up, or visit myhealthyvt.org to learn more about upcoming workshops!

REFUGE RECOVERY MEETING

Burlington Refuge Recovery is a Buddhist-oriented, nontheistic addiction recovery group that meets every Tue. at 6:45 p.m. at Turning Point Center, located at 179 S. Winooski Ave. in Burlington.

SCLERODERMA FOUNDATION NEW ENGLAND

Support group meeting held on the 4th Tue. of every mo., 6:30-8:30 p.m., Williston Police Station. Info, Blythe Leonard, 878-0732.

SEX & LOVE ADDICTS ANONYMOUS

12-step recovery group. Do you have a problem w/ sex or relationships? We can help. Info: Shawn, 660-2645. Visit slaafws.org or saa-recovery.org for meetings near you.

SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS, MONTPELIER

Do you have a problem w/ compulsive sexual behavior? A 12-step program has helped us. SAA Montpelier meets twice weekly at 6 p.m.: Mon. virtual meeting, details at saatalk.info; Thu. face-to-face at Bethany Church, Montpelier. Details at saa-recovery.org. Contact saa.vtrecovery@gmail. com or call 802-322-3701.

SEXUAL VIOLENCE SUPPORT

HOPE Works offers free support groups to women, men & teens who are survivors of sexual violence. Groups are avail. for survivors at any stage of the healing process. Intake for all support groups is ongoing. If you are interested in learning more or would like to schedule an intake to become a group member, please call our office at 864-0555, ext. 19, or email our victim advocate at advocate@sover.net.

SMART RECOVERY

We welcome anyone, including family & friends, affected by any kind of substance or activity addiction. SMART Recovery is an abstinence-oriented program based on the science of addiction treatment & recovery. Online: Sun. at 5 p.m. Info: meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/1868/. Face to face: Thu. at 1:15 p.m. & Fri. at 5:30 p.m. at the Turning Point Center of Chittenden County. Family & Friends online, Mon. at 7 p.m. Info: meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/6337/ Volunteer facilitator, Bert: 802-399-8754. You can learn more at smartrecovery.org.

SOCIAL ANXIETY SUPPORT GROUPS

For screened adults ages 28-40. Therapist-led sessions. For more info, contact diane@ldtayeby. com.

STUTTERING SUPPORT GROUPS

If you’re a person who stutters, you are not alone! Adults, teens & school-age kids who stutter, & their families are welcome to join 1 of our 3 free National Stuttering Association (NSA) stuttering support groups at UVM (join by Zoom or in person). Adults: 5:30-6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tue. monthly; teens (ages 13-17): 5:30-6:30 p.m., 2nd Thu. monthly; school-age children (ages 8-12) & parents (meeting separately): 4:15-5:15 p.m., 2nd Thu. monthly. Pomeroy Hall (489 Main St., UVM campus). Info: nsachapters.org/burlington, burlingtonstutters@ gmail.com, 656-0250. Go, Team Stuttering!

SUICIDE SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP For those who have lost a friend or loved one through suicide. 6:30-8 p.m., on the 3rd Tue. of every mo. Maple Leaf Clinic, 167 N. Main St., Wallingford. Info: 446-3577.

SUICIDE HOTLINES IN VT Brattleboro, 257-7989; Montpelier (Washington County Mental Health Emergency Services), 2290591; Randolph (Clara Martin Center Emergency Service), 800-639-6360.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN who have experienced intimate partner abuse. Facilitated by Circle (Washington Co. only). Please call 877-543-9498 for more info.

SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE

If you have lost someone to suicide & wish to have a safe place to talk, share & spend a little time w/ others who have had a similar experience, join us on the 3rd Thu. of every mo., 7-9 p.m., at the Faith Lighthouse Church, Route 105, Newport (105 Alderbrook). Please call before attending. Info: Mary Butler, 744-6284.

SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE: S. BURLINGTON

This group is for people experiencing the impact of the loss of a loved one to suicide. 1st Wed. of each mo., 6-7:30 p.m., at the Comfort Inn & Suites, 3 Dorset St., S. Burlington. Info: Bob Purvee at 802-922-4283 or ripurvee1@yahoo.com, or Aya Kuki at 802-881-3606 or ayakokuki@gmail.com

TRANS & GENDER-NONCONFORMING SUPPORT GROUP

As trans & GNC people in the world, we experience many things that are unique to our identities. For that reason, the Transgender Program hosts a support group for our community on the 1st & 3rd Wed. of every mo., 6:30-8 p.m., either virtually or at Pride Center of Vermont. The Trans & GNC Support group is for Vermonters at all stages of their gender journey to come together to socialize, discuss issues that are coming up in their lives & build community. We welcome anyone whose identity falls under the trans, GNC, intersex & nonbinary umbrellas, & folks questioning their gender identity. Email safespace@ pridecentervt.org w/ any questions, comments or accessibility concerns.

Bookkeeper/ Admin Assistant

Mansfield Community Fiber is a growing company providing fiberoptic Internet to rural Vermont. We are seeking an experienced bookkeeper to support customer communications, A/P accounting entries, audit procedures, company records, etc. Hours are flexible. Pay is commensurate with experience and includes employer-paid medical, dental and vision insurance, generous paid time off, flexible hours and a supportive work environment. Send letter of interest and resume, leslie.nulty@mcfibervt.com

Executive Director

In this leadership role, you will serve as Executive Director of Lyric Theatre Company (Lyric), responsible for engaging our community, membership, donors, and volunteers in promoting and delivering a community theater experience to 14,000+ attendees a year, while ensuring financial stability and security of the organization. Reporting to the Lyric Board of Directors, you are responsible for overseeing the administrative, financial, and operational aspects of Lyric, supporting the artistic direction, production selection, or creative decisions related to theatrical performances.

Please note, this role is not an Artistic Director role. Send resumes to: lyricedsearch@gmail.com

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POST-A-JOB PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

Finance Manager

Join our ambitious wilderness team! Northeast Wilderness Trust seeks an experienced Finance Manager to perform professional-level accounting duties for a mission-focused nonprofit experiencing strong organizational growth.

Visit newildernesstrust.org/about/employment to learn more.

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Fundholder Support and Engagement Donor Stewardship and Impact Reporting Administrative and Data Management Create positive change across Vermont. Visit vermontcf.org/careers to learn more. 4t-VTCommunityFoundation012225

DENTAL HYGIENIST

We are searching for a REGISTERED DENTAL HYGIENIST for our thriving practice in the quintessential Vermont town. Join us in caring for our community in a place where quality of life is unparalleled! We are looking for the right person to support our relationship-based practice. Our hygienists partner with each other, Dr. Knott, and our administrative team to ensure the best possible experience for our patients. Truly a positive, team-oriented environment.

Hours: 7:45-5:00 Monday through Thursday. Need a part time/ flexible schedule? Let's discuss!

Salary: Commensurate with Experience. Generous Benefits Package: Health, Dental, PTO, Retirement

Send resume and a cover letter outlining why you are the right person for our patients: dentalapptcoord@gmail.com Applications will be held in confidence. Find out more about us here: woodstockdentistry.com

Commercial Construction Project Manager

Silver Maple is seeking a full-time, benefits eligible Project Manager (PM) to lead its expanding Commercial Construction work. This seasoned PM will source and develop new projects and manage them from first contact through completion. The right candidate will shape the division, expand the team and build our commercial business line.

We enable our employees to do their best work, work that inspires them and supports a favorable work-life balance.

Salary & Benefits are competitive and comprehensive. Apply at silvermaple.com or send your resume to hr@silvermapleconstruction.com

Restaurant Manager

Farmhouse Tap & Grill is opening a second location in Williston Spring 2025..... and we are looking to meet Manager candidates to join our growing team. Award winning Farm-to-Table Gastropubs with great reputations. The Restaurant Manager leads the daily and nightly charge by providing great guest service and employee coaching. Full benefits including Health Ins, Life Ins, Dental/Vision Ins, Paid Vacation, and other perks.

Intro candidates and experienced candidates are encouraged to apply.

Salary $70,000+ Cheers! careers@farmhousegroup.com

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT HALF-TIME

Finding Our Stride (FOS) seeks an energetic, motivated individual with a passion to serve youth to join our small team as Director of Development and Operations. The Director of Development will collaborate closely with the Executive Director and be responsible for strategizing, implementing, and managing all development efforts and operations supporting FOS’ continued growth. This position will also be the staff lead for the Board of Directors Development Committee and work closely with the Committee’s Chair and members in supporting FOS’s development goals.

The salary range for this position is $32,500 to $37,500 annually. FOS provides a generous vacation policy, paid sick days, flexible work schedules, and a home office stipend for technology and equipment.

Email resume & cover letter in PDF formats to info@findingourstride.org.

We anticipate a start date of between March 1 and March 24, 2025. E.O.E. 4t-FindingourStride012925.indd

NOW HIRING

Deputy

Finance Director

City of South Burlington

The City of South Burlington seeks a strategic Deputy Finance Director to ensure the integrity of and assist in managing the City’s financial systems.

SALARY RANGE:

$80,000 - $90,000 annually

BENEFITS: Health, dental, and vision insurance, deferred compensation match, paid time off, 12 paid holidays.

LEARN MORE & APPLY NOW by February 10th, 2025.

Full-time, part-time, and per diem options available.

For more information visit copleyvt.org/careers or contact Kaitlyn Shannon, Recruiter, at 802-888-8144 or kshannon@chsi.org.

Mental Health Clinician

Turning Points Network, a nonprofit social services organization in Claremont, NH, is seeking a Mental Health Clinician to provide individual and group counseling to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Requirements:

• Ability to work with adults. Ability and desire to work with children is strongly preferred.

• Must be licensed (or license-eligible) mental health professional (LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or equivalent).

Competitive salary and robust benefits package. Send resume, cover letter & references to careers@ turningpointsnetwork.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For a full job description, see bit.ly/TPNmhClinician

HIRING!

Claussen’s Florist, Greenhouse & Perennial Farm is hiring for the Spring Season!

Certified Massage Therapists

We need reliable and skilled on-call (part-time contracted) or in-house (hourly and contracted) Vermont State Certified or Nationally Certified Massage Therapists with friendly demeanor, great customer etiquette, and a cooperative attitude to join our team. We are a popular high-end boutique hotel and wellness center in the heart of the Mad River Valley. Therapists take flat fee cut 50/50 of all massages (which start at $180 hourly) as well as all tips. Laundry service, tools, beds, and supplies provided. Meal differential at the café during shifts. Hydraulic beds, stone ovens, and towel warmers in treatment rooms.

Full time therapists who can make a 6-month commitment or longer can secure excellent nearby staff housing at a discounted market rate. After 90 days, healthcare options available.

Pease send a resume and brief introductory email to Jacobc@pitcherinn.com or call 802-855-1683

Mental Health Clinician Case Manager

Sign-on bonus up to $10,000

The Mental Health Clinician works as part of a multi-disciplinary team as an integral part of the Addiction Treatment Center (ATC) to support patients in their recovery at The University of Vermont Medical Center.

Qualiﬁcations:

• Master’s degree in a behavioral health or related ﬁeld required

• Active Drug & Alcohol Counselor License (LADC) in the State of VT required

• At least 3 years’ direct clinical experience post-licensure providing individual, family and group psychotherapy

• Active additional licensure as either a clinical social worker or clinical mental health counselor in the State of Vermont strongly preferred.

For info & to apply: uvmhealthnetworkcareers.org/r0069091.

JANUARY 29-FEBRUARY 5, 2025

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Nursery & Greenhouse Manager

Year Round Full Time position available now!

Our successful and locally owned retail Lawn, Garden, Farm & Pet Center is seeking an experienced, qualified and highly motivated individual to manage a thriving retail plant sales department.

Responsibilities include Ordering, Care, Inventory Management and Sales of Greenhouse & Nursery Plants, Seeds & Bulbs, plus a genuine interest in providing knowledgeable customer service. Extensive Horticulture knowledge a must!

Qualified Candidate must have a dedicated work ethic and be able to perform moderate lifting, work hard in the busy seasons and enjoy a very flexible schedule in winter.

Full-time Benefits include Generous Wage (based on experience) plus Bonuses, Paid Vacation and more!

Please send resume along with Salary History and References to: Middlebury AGWAY Farm & Garden, Attn: Jennifer Jacobs 338 Exchange St. Middlebury, VT 05753 Or by email to info@middleburyagway.com

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Shop Supervisor

We are seeking a skilled and versatile Welder, Fabricator, Vehicle, and Equipment Maintenance Technician to join our team. This role combines expertise in welding and fabrication with mechanical proficiency in maintaining and repairing vehicles and equipment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a high level of technical skill, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and quality.

Compensation

- Competitive hourly wage or salary based on experience.

- Benefits package including health, vision and dental insurance, 401k with company match, paid time off, short and long term disability insurance and life insurance.

Submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and certifications to jobs@vttent.com. We look forward to welcoming a dedicated professional to our team!

DRIVER WANTED

Driver wanted for contracted transportation.

$25 - $30/hour including health benefits, 401K and bonuses. We provide vehicles, maintenance, fuel & insurance. Must be reliable, have a clean driver’s license and must be able to pass a background check.

Respond to info@vtridenetwork.com, subject: DRIVER WANTED

Hiring for 2025 Positions

Full descriptions & to apply: trilliumhillfarm.com/ employment.html

Finance Assistant

Join the PAHCC team as a Finance Assistant. Help us provide high school students with rigorous hands-on instruction with your experience in finance and accounting.

The ideal candidate will have:

• At least 5 years’ financial and accounting experience

• Be proficient in Google Workspace & Microsoft Office Suite

• Have experience in Accounting Software

Competitive annual salary range of $50,000 - $65,000, contingent upon experience, plus a generous benefits package with excellent Health, Dental, Life Insurance and paid time off plans.

Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and three letters of reference via SchoolSpring, or mail/email to: Executive Assistant, Hannaford Career Center, 51 Charles Avenue, Middlebury, VT 05753; or email to sthurber@pahcc.org. This position will remain open until filled. Visit hannafordcareercenter.org/careers to see full job posting.

Fingerprinting, Criminal Background, and Child Abuse/ Neglect Registry checks are required. PAHCC is an equal opportunity employer.

Employment Specialist

Join our award-winning supported employment program and work with individuals to develop career goals, seek and secure employment, and build partnerships with local businesses for long term employment. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, enjoy working in a collaborative environment and have the desire to make an impact on their community.

This is an excellent position for someone who is looking for the next step in their career or to continue their work in this field.

Compensation is $21 per hour plus $1,000 sign on bonus. Benefit package includes comprehensive and affordable health insurance, 29 paid days off in the first year, retirement match, tuition reimbursement and so much more.

And that’s on top of working at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont” for six years running.

Why not have a job you love? Make a career making a difference and apply today. Send resume to staff@ccs-vt.org.

Visit our website for more information: ccs-vt.org.

Construction Assistant Superintendent

Dousevicz Inc is a team that values quality of life, career growth, and the satisfaction of building in the greater Chittenden County area. Dousevicz Inc, has been a premier builder in Burlington and the surrounding area for over 30yrs and continues to lead real estate development around Vermont. The Assistant Superintendent is responsible for the successful execution of field work and project safety. The right candidate will have experience in successfully supervising employees and subcontractors on a construction site. Must be safety focused and have excellent communication and computer skills. This role is perfect for a hands-on leader who is passionate about craftsmanship, has an eye for detail, and values both tradition and innovation in construction.

$65,000-$75,000/year salary plus benefits including health care, generous paid time off, and bonuses.

Daily tasks will include, assisting superintendent, job-site clean up, minor finish carpentry tasks (appliances, doors handles, etc.) coordination of subcontractors and making sure all materials are handled correctly. If you're excited to build residential homes and take the next step in your career, we'd love to talk with you! Send resumes to Brad Dousevicz: dousevicz@gmail.com

WHERE YOU AND YOUR WORK MATTER

The Vermont Agency of Education seeks a leader to direct two federal programs: Title IV Part A, supporting well-rounded education, safe schools, and technology, and the Migrant Education Program (MEP). This role manages $6M in Title IV funds through grant reviews, monitoring, and technical assistance while ensuring compliance. The director also oversees the MEP subgrantee, ensuring adherence to requirements that address the unique needs of migratory children and youth. For more information, contact Deborah Bloom at Deborah.Bloom@Vermont.gov. Department: Agency of Education. Location: Montpelier. Status: Full Time. Job ID #51902. Application Deadline: February 2, 2025.

The Vermont Agency of Education seeks a dedicated professional to serve as the State Director for Title IIA. This role oversees over $10M in federal funds to improve student achievement by preparing, training, and retaining high-quality educators through formula grants and state-level activities. The Director also manages Title IVA state funds, ensures compliance with federal requirements, and collaborates with Institutions of Higher Education to support Vermont’s schools and educators. For more information, contact Deborah Bloom at Deborah.Bloom@Vermont.gov. Department: Agency of Education. Location: Montpelier. Status: Full Time. Job ID #51906. Application Deadline: February 9, 2025.

Utility Billing & Customer Care Manager

The City of Burlington Department of Public Works is hiring!

This position is responsible for managing the personnel and the activities of the Billing and Customer Care teams which are responsible for Water Resources meter-to-cash processes, utility billing, and customer service for water, wastewater & stormwater. This position focuses on ensuring the accuracy of billing and positive customer service outcomes for Water Resources. Additionally, the position executes specialty billings, leads customer outreach efforts on the Water Resources Affordability Program initiatives, supports a variety of Water Resources compliance programs with customer notification efforts, and provides administrative support and the execution of special tasks and projects for the Director of Finance & Administration and the Division Director.

This full-time position is compensated $82,129.00 - $91,653.00 annually and comes with a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and life insurance, tuition support, a retirement plan, an FSA, and much more!

The City of Burlington is an E.O.E. We encourage applicants to apply who can contribute to our growing diversity.

To learn more and apply for this position, please visit: burlingtonvt.gov/903/Career-Opportunities

Master & Journeyman Plumbers

Silver Maple Construction is expanding its Mechanical Division. We are currently seeking full-time, benefits-eligible Master and Journeyman Plumbers focused on high-level customer service and the execution of complex and cutting-edge residential HVAC and plumbing systems.

Here at Silver Maple, we want everyone to feel valued and do the work that inspires them while maintaining a favorable work-life balance.

Total Rewards:

• Competitive Weekly Pay (based on experience)

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans

• 401k Retirement Plan + Company Match

• 15 days Paid Time Off • 7 Paid Holidays

Burlington Housing Authority (BHA)

Are you interested in a job that helps your community and makes a difference in people’s lives every day? Consider joining Burlington Housing Authority (BHA) in Burlington, VT to continue BHA’s success in promoting innovative solutions that address housing instability challenges facing our diverse population of low-income families and individuals.

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

Building Operations Technician:

Performs general maintenance work in BHA owned and managed properties. This includes building exteriors, common areas, apartments, building systems, fixtures, and grounds. Our Building Operations Techs are required to participate in the on-call rotation, which covers night and weekend emergencies.

Offender Re-entry Housing Specialist: Provides support to men and women under the VT Department of Corrections supervision from prison back to Chittenden County. The ORHS focuses on high-risk men and women who are being released from jail and graduating transitional housing programs and in need of permanent housing. The ORHS provides intensive retention and eviction prevention services and works collaboratively with the Burlington Probation and Parole Office. Additionally, the ORHS works with various case workers, Re-Entry staff and the Administrative Staff from the VT Department of Corrections and the broad network of COSA staff as necessary throughout Chittenden County.

Resident

Manager at South Square: Attends to various resident requests, assisting with emergency service, and light cleaning duties. The Resident Manager is required to live on property. The Resident Manager is provided with an apartment and along with free utilities in exchange for being on call after BHA business hours and on weekends.

*BHA serves a diverse population of tenants and partners with a variety of community agencies. To most effectively carry out our vision of delivering safe

and affordable housing to all, we are committed to cultivating a staff that reflects varied lived experiences, viewpoints, and educational histories. Therefore, we strongly encourage candidates from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and women to apply. Multilingualism is a plus!

Find more about these career opportunities: burlingtonhousing.org

Our robust benefit package includes premium medical insurance with a health reimbursement account, dental, vision, short & long term disability, 10% employer funded retirement plan, 457 retirement plan, accident insurance, life insurance, cancer & critical illness insurance.

We provide a generous time off policy including 12 days of paid time off and 12 days of sick time in the first year. In addition to the paid time off, BHA recognizes 13 (paid) holidays and 2 (paid) floating cultural holidays.

Interested in this opportunity? Send cover letter/resume to: humanresources@ burlingtonhousing.org

Human Resources

Burlington Housing Authority 65 Main Street, Suite 101 Burlington, VT 05401 BHA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Victim Compensation Manager

Coordinate and manage the Center’s Victim Compensation and Sexual Assault Programs

Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting or other pertinent discipline, plus three to four years of victim services experience, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.

· Knowledge of insurance claims & medical records desirable, as well as state & community social service & law enforcement agencies.

· Good administrative/organizational, supervisory and budgetmanagement skills.

· Good writing, math and analytical skills.

· Pertinent training/experience with business computer software/ hardware operations.

· Ability to represent the Center to and deal effectively with a wide range of individuals and organizations outside the Center, including victims, advocates, law enforcement agencies, state agencies, community social and health services, insurance companies, vendors, national organizations, and the like, including the ability to exercise a high level of tact and discretion regarding sensitive personal matters.

Send resumes to: hiring@ccvs.vermont.gov

“Seven Days sales rep Michelle Brown is amazing! She’s extremely responsive, and I always feel so taken care of. I can only imagine how many job connections she has facilitated for local companies in the 20 years she has been doing this.”

CAROLYN ZELLER, Intervale Center, Burlington Get a quote when posting online. Contact Michelle Brown at 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Responsible for performing routine maintenance and repair tasks to ensure the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of the company’s apartment buildings, addressing tenant maintenance requests, handle preventative maintenance, and assist in preparing units for turnovers. This role plays a key part in ensuring that the properties are well-maintained and provide a high standard of living for tenants.

Please send resumes to: michelle@larkinrealty.net

VT Helplink Community Outreach and Engagement Associate

We are seeking a VT Helplink Community Outreach and Engagement Associate who will help build awareness and increase use of the VT Helplink services by engaging communities and conducting outreach throughout Vermont to VDH’s Preferred Providers, community partners, coalition members, people using substances and in recovery, allies, family and loved ones, young adults, and other constituents and priority populations. Travel within Vermont and occasional travel to the Boston office is required. Candidates must be based in Vermont.

Additionally, the Outreach Associate will play a key role in building out our Champions program, which is an initiative to engage trusted community organizations in Helplink programming, material development, and outreach efforts. These organizations may include:

Migrant Justice

The Root Social Justice Center

Johnsbury Community Hub

The Pride Center of VT

This is an exempt, full-time position with a salary range of 55k-65k based on skills, work experience, and lived experience. The Outreach Associate may work remotely. Travel within Vermont and occasional travel to the Boston office is required (paid and/or reimbursed by HRiA). Candidates must be based in Vermont.

Candidate Qualifications:

• BS or BA with at least three years of relevant experience, or in lieu of a degree, at least five years of experience in the field of substance use services.

• Strong commitment to health and racial equity.

• Knowledge of Vermont geography, culture, and stakeholders.

• Lived/living experience with substance use disorder strongly preferred.

• Openness to Harm Reduction principles and approaches; respect for those who use substances; appreciation for the many ways people enter into and sustain recovery from substance use disorders.

• Relationships within the SUD, harm reduction, and/or recovery communities in Vermont preferred.

• Bilingual (primarily in English/Spanish) preferred.

• A valid driver’s license and access to an automobile.

• Ability to work virtually with a strong and stable internet connection.

Apply online: hria.org/jobs/communityoutreach-and-engagement-associate-vthelplink

Carpenter

New Frameworks, a worker-owned cooperative design and construction company, is hiring a Carpenter to add to our team. We are a busy, fun, egalitarian-yet-structured, creative, kind, and mission-driven group of people working together towards the goal of developing ecological and social climate justice and regeneration practices in the building and design trades.

Our ideal candidate has 8+ yrs’ experience in construction, renovation, trades and/or energy & weatherization work, and at least 2 years’ experience managing a crew. If you’ve been looking for a way to use your carpentry skills to advance climate change response through the built environment; build with natural, local, and plant-based materials; and be an integral part of an equitable, intersectional feminist workplace with a strong team culture, we welcome you! This position is based in Essex Junction, Vermont, but we travel to job sites across northern and central Vermont. $26-30/hr depending on experience, plus paid time off, benefits, education, and profit sharing.

To apply, please submit a letter of interest and resume via email to info@newframeworks.com. People of color, trans and gender-nonconforming people, people from poor and working-class backgrounds, queer people, and women are encouraged to apply.

VCAP Career Pathway Student Navigator

The Community College of Vermont is seeking a dynamic and engaging individual with a welcoming demeanor to ensure that career advising, career exploration, and career learning are integrated into the student experience at CCV.

The VCAP Career Pathway Student Navigator is responsible for ensuring that individuals receiving services from HireAbilityVT and participating in any college sponsored activity, make consistent progression toward achieving their educational and career goals. The VCAP Career Pathway Student Navigator works closely with the VCAP Program Manager and HireAbility participants from admissions through program completion to provide the guidance and support needed for success. The Career Pathway Student Navigator develops and maintains strong working relationships with HireAbility. VCAP is a 5-Year federal grant run by HireAbility and this Career Pathway Student Navigator position is funded through June 2026.

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree plus three years of experience in education, student services, counseling or a related professional field or combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of higher education and career services and practices, including familiarity with student development theory

• Ability to work in and foster a highly collaborative and student-centered environment

• Excellent interpersonal skills; uses emotional intelligence and discretion in communications

• Effective listening and analytical skills to assess needs and develop successful solutions to complex problems

• Strong understanding of disabilities, disability rights, and support services for individuals with disabilities

• Knowledge of HireAbility and/or other organizations that provide career pathway training and/or support services

• Strong technological proficiency

Application Instructions: In order to be considered, please submit a complete application package which includes a cover letter, resume/CV, employment application and contact information for three professional references at: ccv. edu/learn-about-ccv/employment

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Line Cook

Positive and motivated, willing to get trained & take responsibility of the stations. Tuesday through Saturday evenings. Chiuhos@asinglepebble.com

Mentor Recruitment Manager

Full description & to apply:

Central Clinical Educator (CCE)

Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) in St. Johnsbury is looking for a Central Clinical Educator (CCE) to help us elevate our nursing education. We want to hear from you if you’re passionate about mentoring and supporting healthcare professionals.

What You’ll Do: Manage our mandatory education programs and nursing orientation. Ensure compliance with training requirements. What We’re Looking For: An RN graduate (BSN required/MSN preferred) with at least 3 years of nursing experience. We offer competitive pay and excellent benefits, such as student loan repayment, and generous paid time off. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in your community, apply today! We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!

Apply now at www.nvrh.org/careers.

Housing Stabilization & Retention Services Specialist

The Housing Stabilization & Retention Services Specialist provides housing support and advocacy services to Vermonters addressing their housing crisis situations and improving housing stability, housing retention services through one-on-one coaching, skillbuilding and promoting connections to other services. Working within the Housing Advocacy Programs (HAP) team, the Housing Stabilization & Retention Specialist assists and makes referrals to CVOEO educational services as needed.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline plus two years of community service experience or combination of education and experience from which comparable skills and knowledge are acquired. Housing support, case management and/or basic mediation experience desired.

When you come to work for CVOEO you’re getting so much more than a paycheck! We offer a great working environment and an excellent benefit package including medical, dental and vision insurance, paid holidays, generous time off, a retirement plan and discounted gym membership.

Interested in working with us? Apply at cvoeo.org/careers

CVOEO is interested in candidates who can contribute to our diversity and excellence. Applicants are encouraged to include in their cover letter information about how they will further this goal. We are one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Vermont! Join us to find out why!

Customer Service Supervisor

MWL is seeking a dedicated Customer Service Supervisor to oversee the billing and customer service team within our small municipal utility. This role will focus on managing customer interactions, billing accuracy, account management, payment processing, and resolving customer inquiries. The ideal candidate will ensure a positive customer experience while adhering to Vermont Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulations and MWL company policies.

To learn more & apply: mwlvt.com/job-openings

We’re Hiring!

We offer competitive wages & a full benefits package for full time employees. No auction experience necessary.

OPEN POSITIONS:

Auction Site Techs (MORRISVILLE, VT)

We’re seeking energetic & motivated individuals to join our auction team. Techs work an average of 44 hours per week.

Auto Auction Assistant (WILLISTON, VT)

Looking for a responsible, motivated, self-starter. Position works with the general manager and the office manager completing tasks both inside/ outdoors. Rate is $17-$20/Hour

Email us: info@thcauction.com

Thomas Hirchak Company is an at will employer. See details at: THCAuction.com

Email Us: Info@THCAuction.com

GO HIRE.

Job Seekers:

Job Recruiters:

• Post jobs using a form that includes key info about your company and open positions (location, application deadlines, video, images, etc.).

• Accept applications and manage the hiring process via our applicant tracking tool.

• Easily manage your open job listings from your recruiter dashboard.

• Search for jobs by keyword, location, category and job type.

• Set up job alert emails using custom search criteria.

• Save jobs to a custom list with your own notes on the positions.

• Apply for jobs directly through the site.

Get a quote when you post online or contact Michelle Brown: 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com.

Administrative Assistant

The University of Vermont Institute for Agroecology (UVM IFA) is hiring for a remote part-time Administrative Assistant. Candidate must be able to travel to Burlington, Vermont for occasional in-person event support. Hours: 10-15 hours per week. Please send resume, cover letter, and 3 professional references to ifa@uvm.edu with subject “Administrative Assistant –[Your Name].” Apply by January 27, 2025 for priority consideration.

Part-time Market Manager

The Stowe Farmers’ Market is looking for a year-round, part-time market manager who is selfmotivated and loves local food.

Responsibilities include on-site outdoor presence at the market as well as remote computer work during non-market hours. Our ideal candidate is organized, communicates well and can work independently while also providing leadership to the market community.

For a full job description go to Stowefarmersmarket.com.

Email cover letter and resume to stowefmtreasurer@gmail.com by February 20th, 2025

2v-StoweFarmersMarket012925.indd 1 1/22/25 12:13 PM

Vermont is our mission. Our mission starts with “For the benefit of Vermont.” The Vermont State Colleges System is deeply rooted in the communities and regions of the state. We educate more Vermonters annually than all the other institutions of higher education in the state combined. We employ thousands of Vermonters, and our campuses and academic centers are centers of academic excellence, culture and community. We are currently hiring for:

ENTERPRISE SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

We are seeking a skilled Enterprise System Administrator to join our dynamic IT team. We are looking for a candidate with experience to serve as a technical resource to ensure performance and reliability of hardware, software, and environmental systems for the VSC by providing system management, administration, and support.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Associate’s degree in a computer or other appropriate discipline and at least three years’ related experience, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired. Apply: QR CODE

MICROSOFT 365 SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR

We are seeking a skilled Microsoft 365 System Administrator to join our dynamic IT team. We are looking for a candidate with experience managing Microsoft Tenant and various Office 365 management consoles. In this role, you will be responsible for managing and optimizing our Microsoft 365 environment, ensuring seamless operations, security, and performance across the organization. If you are passionate about managing and leveraging cloud-based technologies, we want to hear from you.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Associate’s degree in a computer or other appropriate discipline and three to five years’ related experience, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.

Apply: QR Code

The Vermont State Colleges System offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees.

Miller Farm Equipment Operator

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the institution. Applicants are encouraged to include in their cover letter information about how they will further this goal.

Posting Summary

This is a staff position for the UVM College of Agriculture and Life Sciences' Paul Miller Farm, supporting our dairy and equine operations. Reports to the Miller Farm's management within UVM's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Assist farm management with oversight of the day-to-day operations of the Miller Farm teaching facility.

Minimum Qualifications (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Demonstrated knowledge of heavy equipment operation, including farm tractors, front-end loaders, skid steers and experience pulling trailers, wagons and farm implements using 3-point hitch, drawbar and power take-off. Initial employment contingent upon successful completion of physical screening and background check. Must be able to work independently to complete scheduled activities. Must have a valid Vermont drivers license or the ability to obtain. Ability to lift 35 pounds frequently and 100 pounds occasionally. Effective interpersonal and communication skills.

Desirable Qualifications

Experience working with large animals in a farm environment, in particular on dairies or equine operations. Experience working with college students a plus.

Anticipated Pay Range

$22-$25

Other Information

Work shifts will require some early mornings and weekends.

UVM's standard work week is Monday through Sunday, any hours worked over 40 during a standard work week will qualify as overtime.

This position may require non-standard work hours, including work on holidays.

Special Conditions

Non-standard work hours required, A probationary period may be required, Occasional evening and/or weekends required (if non-exempt position, may result in overtime), 40 hour work week, Weekend work required, Bargaining Unit Position - United Electrical Workers, A probationary period may be required for current UVM employees, This position is ineligible for telework due to the essential functions, Background Check required for this position, A postoffer pre-employment (POPE test) physical examination is required.

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Union Position

Yes, UE ($18.25 minimum hourly rate)

Job Close Date (Jobs close at 11:59 PM EST.)

SAM Talks // A History of the Concept of Race with William Edelglass

THU., JAN. 30 ONLINE

TRS LIVE: Night Protocol Live Album

Recording

FRI., JAN. 31

TANK RECORDING STUDIO, BURLINGTON

Hip-Hop Night at the Underground

FRI., JAN. 31

THE UNDERGROUND, RANDOLPH

Winter Renaissance Faire

SAT., FEB. 1

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION, ESSEX JCT.

French Macarons Featuring Small Oven Pastries

SAT., FEB. 1

RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY VILLAGE

Joe's Big Band Winter Burner

SAT., FEB. 1

ST. JOHN'S CLUB, BURLINGTON

Saturday Night Sounds

SAT., FEB. 1 & SAT., FEB. 8

MAGNETICA PERFORMANCE SPACE, BURLINGTON

2025 Lunar New Year Celebration

SUN., FEB. 2

FREDERICK H. TUTTLE MIDDLE SCHOOL, BURLINGTON

Cosy Sheridan

SUN., FEB. 2

ROOTS & WINGS COFFEEHOUSE AT UUCUV, NORWICH

The Magnetica Sound Bath

SUN., FEB. 2 & SUN., FEB. 9

MAGNETICA PERFORMANCE SPACE, BURLINGTON

New Stage Play Festival 2025

FRI., FEB. 7 & SAT., FEB. 8

Bill Skiff Story Slam

SAT., FEB. 8

WILLISTON CENTRAL SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

GRANGE HALL CULTURAL CENTER, WATERBURY CENTER

The Funky Flats w/ DJ Sound Syndicate

SAT., FEB. 8

THE UNDERGROUND, RANDOLPH

Perfume Making Event with Bloom Lab

SUN., FEB. 9

STOWE CIDER

Mama Tried Bluegrass Band

SUN., FEB. 9

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, ESSEX JCT.

Punny Valentine's Day Class

TUE., FEB. 11

RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY VILLAGE

Pedal Parables 2025

TUE., FEB. 11

OLD SPOKES HOME, BURLINGTON

Valentine's Perfume Blending Experience

WED., FEB. 12

MIRROR MIRROR, SHELBURNE

Galentine's Day Cookie Decorating Class

THU., FEB. 13

QUEEN CITY BREWERY, BURLINGTON

Vintage Heart Cake Decorating Class

THU., FEB. 13

RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY VILLAGE

fun stuff

“Mr. Squirrel is running behind. But he’d like you to go ahead and start chasing without him.”

JEN SORENSEN

HARRY BLISS

JOHN KLOSSNER

JULIANNA BRAZILL

ANDY SINGER

AQUARIUS

(JAN. 20-FEB. 18)

As I envision your life in the coming weeks, I am moved to compare you to certain birds. First, there will be similarities between you and the many species that can literally perceive Earth’s magnetic fields, seeing them as patterns of shadow and light overlaid on their regular vision. You, too, will have an uncanny multidimensional awareness that helps guide your travels. Secondly, Aquarius, you will be like the migrating songbirds that recalibrate their internal compass every day when the sun sets. In other words, you will make steady efforts to ensure that your magical ways of knowing are grounded in earthy rhythms.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): In medieval Europe, beekeepers made formal reports to their hives of significant events in the human world, such as births, deaths, marriages and departures. They believed the bees needed to be continually informed so as to ensure robust honey production. The practice was called “telling the bees.” Let’s make this an inspiring story for you in the coming weeks, Aries. I invite you to keep your community fully apprised of what’s happening in your life. Proceed on the assumption that sharing your plans and changes with others will generate harmony and support. Like the beekeepers, you may

discover that keeping your community in the loop will strengthen your bonds and sweeten your endeavors.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): A regular guy named Jesse Ronnebaum bought an old painting at a yard sale for 50 cents. For the next ten years, it hung on the wall in his living room. Then he noticed a dim inscription on the painting that suggested maybe it was more valuable than he realized. Consulting an art dealer, he discovered it was an unusual composition that featured the work of seven prominent artists — and was worth a lot of money. Ronnebaum said, “Years of struggling, barely making bills, and the whole time there’s $50,000 hanging over my head, literally.” I am predicting metaphorically comparable events unfolding in your life during the coming months, Taurus. Hidden value will no longer be hidden. You will potentize neglected sources of wealth and finally recognize subtle treasures.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): In Namibia’s arid grasslands, fairy circles periodically emerge. They are highly regular rings of bare land encompassed by vegetation. What causes them? Supernatural entities, as believed by the local people? Sand termites or hydrogenloving microbes, according to a few scientists? As yet, no definitive explanation has emerged. I love that! I cherish mysteries that thwart attempts at rational explanation. In accordance with astrological omens, Gemini, I invite you to specialize in tantalizing and unsolvable enigmas in the coming weeks. Your soul needs rich doses of provocative riddles, mysterious truths and fun puzzles. Exult in the liberating declaration, “I don’t know!”

CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): Wherever you wander, be alert for signals that remind you of who you used to be. This will stimulate your creative speculation about who you want to evolve into during the next few years. As you ruminate about your history, you will get inspirations about who you want to become. The past will speak vividly, in ways that hint at your best possible future. So welcome clues from people who are no longer alive. Be receptive to old allies and influences that are no longer a central part of your world.

LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): “Crown shyness” is a phenomenon seen among some trees such as lodgepole pines. In forests, they grow big and strong and tall yet avoid touching each other at their tops. This creates canopies full of pronounced gaps. What causes this curious phenomenon? First, if branches don’t brush up against each other, harmful insects find it harder to spread from tree to tree. Second, when winds blow, branches are less likely to collide with each other and cause damage. There’s a third benefit: More sunlight penetrates to the forest floor, nourishing animals and other plants. I propose that you adopt crown shyness as a metaphor for your use, Leo. Express your beauty to the max — be bold and vivid and radiant — but also provide plenty of space for your allies to shine. Be your authentically amazing self, but create boundaries that allow others to be their amazing selves.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22): Some astrologers assert that you Virgos suffer from an ambition deficit. They authoritatively assert that a fiery aspiration to achieve greatness never burns hot within you. But in the coming months, I will work to show you a different perspective. Let’s start now: Many of you Virgos are highly skilled at being self-sufficient. But sometimes this natural strength warps into a hesitancy to ask for help and support. And that can diminish your ability to fulfill your ambitions. My goal will be to celebrate and nurture your selfsufficiency even as I coach you to be dynamic about gathering all the assistance you can.

LIBRA (Sep. 23-Oct. 22): Life is not fair. In the coming days, you will be odd proof of this fact. That’s because you are likely to be the beneficiary of uncommon luck. The only kind of karma that will be operating in your vicinity will be good karma. X factors and wild cards will be more available to you than usual. Your timing will be impeccable, and your intuition will be extra incisive. You may even be tempted to theorize that life is conspiring to bring you an extra supply of meaningful experiences. Here’s the clincher: If anyone in your sphere is prone to feeling envy because you’re flourishing, your charm will defuse it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Here are three questions to ruminate on: 1) What resources

are you afraid you will run out of or squander? 2) What if your fear of running out or squandering these resources obstructs your ability to understand what you need to know and do so that you won’t run out or squander them? 3) How can you dissolve the fear and feel confident that the necessary resources will keep steadily flowing in and you will use them well?

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Most stars have at least one companion star, sometimes two. Our sun, which is all alone, is in the minority. Astronomers have found evidence that our home star once had a companion but lost it. Is there any chance of this situation changing in the future? Might our sun eventually link up with a new compatriot? It’s not likely. But in contrast to our sun’s fate, I suspect that 2025 will offer you a significant diminishment in your personal loneliness quotient. If you crave more camaraderie and togetherness, the coming months will be a favorable time to seek them out. Your meditation question: What’s the opposite of loneliness?

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In the coming weeks, your authenticity will be your greatest strength. The more genuine and honest you are, the more life will reward you. Be alert for situations that may seem to demand camouflage when, in fact, they will ultimately reward your complete transparency. You will be most powerful and attractive as you allow yourself to be fully seen. You can even use your vulnerability to your advantage. Be openly, clearly, unabashedly yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): In some Polynesian cultures, there is a belief that one’s mistakes, including excessive anger, can cause physical sickness. Hawaiians traditionally have employed a ritual remedy for such ills called ho’oponopono. It includes acts of atonement, forgiveness and correction. It may even involve a prayer conference where all the people involved talk about their mutual problems with respect and compassion, seeking solutions and restitution. The coming weeks will be a fantastically favorable time for you to carry out your own version of ho’oponopono, Pisces.

Lance Smith founded Vermont SportsCar in 1988, and for the past two decades it has built race cars for Subaru Motorsports USA, racking up 18 national rally championships. Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger got a tour of VSC’s $12 million, 75,000-square-foot facility in Milton and saw its awardwinning Subarus.

TRIPLE SAGITTARIUS MUSICIAN

I like cozy nights at home, but I also like going to live local music. I love to cuddle and hold hands in public. I’m a sucker for romance. I’m a full-time dad, but he is older. I am sober and have been for over two years. This is extremely important. Send me a message! joeyt8963 44, seeking: W, l

A RELATIONSHIP OF ‘YES’

Respond to these people online: dating.sevendaysvt.com

WOMEN seeking...

ACTIVE, OUTGOING, ADVENTUROUS

I am a caring, independent, professional female who loves traveling, being outdoors (skiing, hiking, biking, paddle boarding, gardening), being with friends and family, or reading a great book. Ideally I would like to meet someone who is smart, has a good sense of humor, shares some of my interests and enjoys great conversation. Hopefully they are out there and will reach out. Oreodog 61, seeking: M, l

GENUINE, FRIENDLY, LOYAL AND TRUE

I am single and live independently. Now retired but work part time remotely. I love nature and watching birds. I enjoy art, consignment and antique shops, music, and good movies. Looking for long-term friend and companion to love, share life, cook good food, talk, entertain and travel. Redwing, 75, seeking: M, l

CURIOUS, ADVENTUROUS, CREATIVE

Most likely to cut in line at a buffet: independent, kind, impatient. Love a good road trip, museums, general stores, art and overseas travel. Group travel and cruises aren’t for me. Love cities, the seaside and forests. Not a fan of November to February in Vermont. Love great food — it doesn’t have to be complicated. Movies, history and architecture intrigue me. Jensen 60, seeking: M, l

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W = Women

M = Men

TW = Trans women

TM = Trans men

Q = Genderqueer people

NBP = Nonbinary people

NC = Gender nonconformists

Cp = Couples

Gp = Groups

DYNAMIC, UPBEAT, SPORT CHIC

I like to meet people and make everyone happy. I adapt very well. I’m French American, living in the U.S. I would love to discover new places, walk, sail, have new activities, go on car or motorbike trips, cook, toast with a good bottle of wine, relax at home, and share life with someone who would enjoy my company. Amie 65, seeking: M, l

CREATIVE SOUL, EASYGOING, AUTHENTIC

Openhearted, loving and kind, I bring my authentic self to everything I do. What you see is what you get. I am an artist with a creative heart and open mind. Looking for a dynamic relationship with someone who is ready to “step up to the plate” with someone they can care about. turtleheart, 69, seeking: W, l

‘80S NATURE DANCER

Life is really good. I love my home, my kids, dear friends and getting outside. I practice yoga and meditate on the daily and am looking forward to meeting someone with a similar lifestyle to laugh and do little adventures with. waterandpines77, 47, seeking: M, l

LAID-BACK, LIVE IN BLUE JEANS

I love live music (rock and blues) and tea, not coffee. Vermont native, one of those who will read the cereal box if there’s no book around. My only child has four feet and a curly tail. Love the Maine coast, too. Bluesandtea 72, seeking: M

POSITIVE ATTITUDE ON LIFE

I am a widow who enjoys cards, board games, yard games and would love to find the right partner to spend time and build a relationship with. I value my faith, family and friends (and my dog Poppy). Just looking for friendship and someone to hang out with — I’m fine with that as well. harlow, 74, seeking: M, l

ARE YOU MY MOUNTAIN MAN?

I live north of St. J, east of I-91. Exploring: friends, maybe LTR. My special guy thrives in his fire, adores my fire, is looking for mutual ignition of body, mind, heart and soul. Me: both contrast and contradiction. Dusty hiker, lover of creature comforts. Metaphysics, quantum physics. Stars in your eyes, stars in the sky. I love to understand why. BrightWaters, 65, seeking: M, l

INTIMIDATING GODDESS — MADE YOU LOOK!

I’m passionate about my work, my writing and living a life of connection, learning and adventure. I’m seeking a man who is comfortable with himself and knows what he wants. I bike/hike/paddleboard, camp and would be interested in company on almost any outdoor activity. I appreciate good conversation and comfortable silence, different perspectives and anyone who can make me laugh. AuntieNunga 60, seeking: M, l

INTERESTING, LIVELY, THOUGHTFUL

I’m smart, considerate, generous and with-it, in good shape and not oldfashioned. I’m looking for a man who is smart, kind, attentive, affectionate and well-groomed, for companionship and closeness. Ellie, 73 seeking: M, l

INSATIABLY CURIOUS TREKKIE

I’m not sure what I’m even looking for. But I do know that I miss having someone to snuggle up to on movie night and to hold hands with on a road trip. The last few years have me feeling more and more radicalized. If you wear a red hat, please just move on. I’m not your kind of girl.

Lillian_Mountweazel, 54, seeking: M, l

SWEET FRIEND FOR YOU

I’m kind, honest and (my friends think) pretty funny. I’m looking for a long-term relationship with someone hardworking and creative like me. I enjoy the outdoors and love to dance. I’m a great listener and loyal to those I care about. VanityFair, 43 seeking: M, W, l

CREATIVE, OPENHEARTED

OUTDOORSWOMAN

Being outdoors immersed in nature is key to my sanity. Spontaneous outdoor adventures and exploration on land or water are the best. Reading gives nourishment and entertainment, as does preparing and savoring good food. Breakfast or dinner out, theater, music, an art opening are good fun. Looking for a like-minded companion to enjoy life with. Care to join me?

WoodsWalking, 69 seeking: M, l

KIND HEART OPEN TO CONSCIOUS CONNECTION

Awakened heart aims to meet adventure, compassion, culture, creating comrades to grow chosen family. Nurture ecosystem resilience, grow/gather medicine, tend home hearth, venture into wild, play music, craft. Let’s drink tea, read poetry, cook, write songs, paddle, skin up a mountain, cuddle by a fire, tree climb, dance, practice Spanish and French. Conscious communication, friends first. Grow connection at trust speed. youthfuloldsoul 49, seeking: M, l

ACTIVE HANDY LEFTY DREAMER

Active person who enjoys travel, hiking, skiing, mountain biking, pickleball. Most often found outdoors being active or caring for animals. The past couple years have been spent renovating a historic home. I have most enjoyed building on the home’s character and transitioning it into a functional, warm, cozy space. Interested in meeting people with similar interests and values.

Built_For_Adventure 52 seeking: W, l

MEN seeking...

SIMPLIFY

Hi, what’s going on? Let me know. Simplfy 61, seeking: W

MAGNIFICENT, AWESOME, SPECTACULAR MODEST AF

Young at heart, caring, trustworthy AF, romantic, fun and funny, completely heterosexual male interested in meeting his female counterpart for dating purposes, ideally. Age has diminished me somewhat but still very much alive. Dan fan, witty, prefer positive over negative, and love to read or watch anything good. There’s much more to me, but this is a good start, don’t you think? Cbstrike11 57 seeking: W, l

Compassionate, caring, loving, ethical. As a lover, I am intimate, sensitive, passionate and communicative in all the ways available for humans to communicate. In love I can and will go as deep and fearlessly as you are willing. I’ve rebuilt buildings, built boats and a rental business, postretirement. I want to build a life together. Communication_ Matters 65, seeking: W, l

LOOKING FOR NSA KINKY FUN

Looking for some kinky times. Like to give and receive oral and hoping to find a well-hung top. 2ndchnce, 60, seeking: M

PART-TIME JOURNALIST, FULL-TIME SEEKER

You’re curious and funny and can laugh at yourself and me. Words warm my heart, but a mechanical challenge perplexes me. I’ve taught in England and Ireland. I’m looking for someone to share the next part of my life, which will be an adventure (of travel, theater, swimming, hiking, dining, maybe golfing) before I’m whisked off to a home for the bewildered.

0hFlatlander 68, seeking: W, l

CALM, KIND AND WELL TRAVELED

Fan of many people, places and teams, with time for another person and their interests. WadeIn, 61 seeking: W

BADASS ORGANIC FARMER

I own and operate my own vegetable farm. I’m looking to meet new people and see where it goes. Cole100, 39, seeking: W, l

A TRAIL LESS STRAVA-ED

Truthful, hardworking, athletic, cooperative male, looking for welleducated SF, 58 to 66. My heart ain’t so fearless anymore, but still optimistic. I love to see both plants and relationships grow. I’m a project person, so happiest with a bit of time and space to express my creativity and respect similar needs. Seeking companionship exploring the unplugged outdoors on foot, bikes, paddle boards. hillasophical 63 seeking: W

CAPABLE, CONFIDENT AND EMOTIONALLY SECURE

I am by nature a tolerant and happy person who is easy to be around. I am looking for a mature woman who is trustworthy, kind, loyal, emotionally connected and physically attractive. Humor is essential. I feel that we must begin a relationship as best friends, which may allow us to grow into fully compatible long-term partners. September17 70, seeking: W, l

EASYGOING AND LAID-BACK

Time is of the essence. Life is too short. I work way too hard seemingly for someone else’s benefit more than my own. rockme 60, seeking: W

STONE SOUP?

SWM, 68, five-foot-seven, HWP, healthy, down-to-earth, empathetic. Seeks connection and mutual attraction with a SWF, 52 to 70, HWP who cares about her health and appearance. Let’s get to know each other, then decide together what kind of relationship feels right for us. Wouldn’t it be great to share our emotional intelligence and have great chemistry, too?

HumbleAndKind, 68, seeking: W, l

VERMONTER TO THE CORE

I’m a creative, outdoor-loving man in a marriage totally lacking intimacy (of mind, soul and body). I often go to the forest. I adore Vermont. I feel mostly content and grounded. It’s time for me to gracefully transition to increased spiritual connection and intimacy. I’m hoping you are open to tenderness and playful exploration. GrnMtn64 64, seeking: W, l

EASYGOING HARD WORKER

I am an easygoing guy — a little shy at first, but once I get to know you, I will talk about anything. I am looking for someone to have conversations with, get me out of the house on a Saturday night, and someone to laugh with or cry at a tearjerker. Mechanicinvt, 52, seeking: W, l

LET’S MEET

Looking for creative, multitalented, intelligent man for LTR/open to marriage. I put my order in with the agency so apply to heaven and they will match us up. Ask for money and it’s over. ThomThomCS135, 71, seeking: M, Cp, Gp, l

LET’S SUCK EACH OTHER’S COCK

Bi-curious man, currently in committed relationship with a woman who wants me to explore fantasies that she can’t fulfill. Seeking a new friend who is interested in guiding my exploration. Casual and discrete. Let’s chat. VTPolarBear 51, seeking: M

TRANS MEN seeking...

INDUSTRIOUS, NERDY, PURSUING KNOWLEDGE

Student and professional artist constantly pursuing new hobbies and studies. Looking for friends to tinker and hang with or a partner for more or less the same. Friendly and open-minded but shy to start. Still wears a mask in crowds. grimblegromble, 23 seeking: W, TW, l

NONBINARY PEOPLE seeking...

OUTDOORSY, TALKATIVE, CREATIVE

Hi, I am pretty fun. I listen to a lot of music. I hike a lot, backpack and garden in the summers. I’m intersex, so I’m double-gendered totally and prefer men. I like to draw a lot. I’m very creative; think of myself a drawer of African animalistic settings, Vermont animals and astrology. Hailuithair, 30, seeking: M, l

COUPLES seeking...

ENJOYING LIFE

We are an attractive, fun-loving, professional couple enjoying life together in Vermont (she, 49; he, 51). Looking for couples or the occasional single guy for fun experiences in and out of the bedroom. Onlylivingonce, 50, seeking: M, Cp, Gp

LOOKING FOR FUN PEEPS

Fun, open-minded couple seeking playmates. Shoot us a note if interested so we can share details and desires. Jackrabbits, 61, seeking: W, Cp

OLD-SCHOOL, ALWAYS LEARNING

I am a male with a partner, female, both straight (I hope still right), with an appetite to add more to our time together with a little extra fun and to fill some downtime with others who feel the same. We both have high school graduation and a lot of on-the-job experience. roaddreamer 68, seeking: M, W, Cp

BIRTHDAY ON 28, LOVES TIRAMISU

e way you threw your shoulder left me feeling sore. You said you loved tiramisu: Could I ask for more? Yapping with you is never a bore. I can’t believe you’re not 24 anymore. When: Sunday, January 26, 2025. Where: With the goats. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916242

BETTER EVERY GAME

I can’t make it next Friday, but it would be fun to play with you again, Holly. When: Friday, January 24, 2025. Where: Catamount. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916241

SALT & RIND WATERBURY

You were with friends from North Carolina. I was with someone. Wanted to sit at your table; still do. — Cute guy at the bar thinking about your pretty face. Now what? When: ursday, January 23, 2025. Where: Salt & Rind Waterbury. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916240

GARDNER’S SUPPLY

EYE CONTACT

You have longish brown hair, a dynamite smile and were wearing a blue hoodie with logos. I had a blue puffy and a trucker cap on. We made brief eye contact, but the moment passed. Does the universe grant second chances? If you think that question would be a good conversation starter, how about coffee at the Gardener’s Supply Café? When: ursday, January 23, 2025. Where: Gardner’s Supply. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916239

NUT AND BOLTS

When I saw you, messy hair, alluring and determined in a trench coat and big snow boots, I said to myself, Oh, my God I wish I had said hello. Maybe I will see you again in your beautifully beat-up Mercedes station wagon. When: Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Where: Kenyon’s. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916235

QUEEN ANNE AND LE CORBUSIER

Most people thought the chaconne would be the piece to end the recital. We agreed that the choice of the third sonata was inspired. at allegro assai is just transcendent; so joyful. I’ll take your advice and check out the recital hall — we might meet again. I wonder what the music will be? When: Friday, January 17, 2025. Where: St Paul’s Cathedral, Burlington. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916237

A BEAUTIFUL DAY

anks for wishing me one. I’ve been having one of those weeks where I could really use one. I appreciate your kindness. I’m looking forward to tasting the pound cake. When: Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Where: Around town. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916236

CROSBY’S CUTE FRIEND?

You skied past me while I was running in shorts. “Wait, are you Crosby’s friend?” you asked, ﬂashing a gorgeous smile. I said “No,” but I wish I’d kept the conversation going somehow. If you happen to see this, I’d love to ski with you sometime. When: Friday, January 10, 2025. Where: Intervale. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916234

MOONDANCE SIREN

Your silhouette is intriguing. It reminds me of my friend LVM, another beauty. Do you rescue domesticated animals as well? I know one who is in dire straits. When: ursday, January 9, 2025. Where: In the deep woods. You: Group. Me: Man. #916233

KENTUCKY CUTIE

I gave you a hot tip on where to ﬁnd your favorite bourbon in town. Maybe we can share a whiskey sometime. Rocks or neat? When: Friday, January 3, 2025. Where: Burlington. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916232

De D y Ay

START MAKING SENSE

Hey, Ben — lost track of you at the show. I had such an awesome time dancing next to you and felt a connection through the music, for sure. I wanted to ﬁnd you to see about meeting for more local music. When: Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Where: Higher Ground. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916231

J, MORE MUSIC, PLEASE

Hi, J! We get to talk about music once or twice a month, and it makes me so, so happy. e last album you recommended to me is amazing! Do you want to listen to music together sometime? When: Friday, December 20, 2024. Where: A place for music. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916230

STYLE COMMENTATOR AT TRADER JOE’S

I was in the wine aisle when you came over and complimented my sense of style. A friend says you were ﬂirting, which I didn’t pick up on, so I simply said thank you and kept selecting my wine. Were you ﬂirting? Or do you just have great taste? When: Monday, December 23, 2024. Where: Trader Joe’s. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916229

SOY MILK IN RICHMOND

You and your grandpa offered me a ride home from the Richmond Market, to the trail that cuts through to my road. ank you! It saved me some sketchy roadside walking in the snow. I was left with lingering questions about soy milk, and would’ve liked to continue that conversation. When: Saturday, December 21, 2024. Where: Richmond. You: Group. Me: Woman. #916228

LONGHORN LUNCH

I met you at noon, sitting at the bar. We talked about your dragon fruit margarita. en we started talking about your family Christmas get-together for the next day. Really enjoyed talking with you; would like to meet you and chat again. When: Friday, December 20, 2024. Where: Longhorn, Williston. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916227

BLONDIE, I’M BEGGING

KT, I can’t hide it anymore. When you wear that blue jacket with the shoulder pads, it ignites a ﬁre in me that cannot be extinguished. If you feel the same, meet me under the disco ball at the next Shrek rave at the stroke of midnight. I’ll be dressed as the ugly stepsister. When: Saturday, December 21, 2024. Where: Bustling Brewery. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916226

I don’t have a lot of mirrors at home, so when I recently stayed at a hotel with an abundance of them, I put them to good use. I noticed that the skin in my, for lack of a better word, butt crack is a lot darker than the rest of me. I’ve heard of anal bleaching, but I would be mortiﬁed to have it done by someone. Is it possible to do it myself?

Although the technical term is intergluteal cleft, “butt crack” is much more fun to say. It’s very common for the skin in that area to be darker than other parts of the body. And no, it isn’t caused by poop stains. e body just produces more melanin in some places, and it can be exacerbated by friction, moisture, hormonal changes or just plain genetics.

Anal bleaching is a cosmetic procedure that lightens the skin in the area around the anus. ere are a variety of different methods that include creams, chemical peels or laser treatments, but none involves actual bleach. It should go without saying that you should never put bleach anywhere on, or in, your body.

MOUSTACHE MAN

I spy, with my little eye, the cutest guy. Better femme-y than phlegm-y, I always say. You can add “cryptic” to the list. When: ursday, December 19, 2024. Where: A valley. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916225

DECOROUS INGÉNUE

Showed you my body without armoire. Duvet lozenge ornate mirror wardrobe — Brassica capsaicin regalia soporiﬁc ululation — Sappho, fried chicken, grandfather’s truck, blistered soul, ball game, crushed-up receipts — sturgeon, tumultuous frenetic vivisect — like worn-out shoes and my love for you. Wikipedia cannot be sold. Dribble gravy, eyes a haunt for vulture pigeons. Carrion wayward skunk, there’ll be peas before you’re dung. When: Friday, December 20, 2024. Where: Wandering. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916224

HUNGER MOUNTAIN PARKING LOT is was a few weeks ago, but I was walking to my car and I think we noticed each other. Not much more to go on, but I was holding soup. When: Sunday, December 1, 2024. Where: Montpelier. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916223

YOUR NAME IS DAVE

You’re a night manager at a grocery store. You got blood drawn, and you asked me about my mittens. We chatted while waiting. Would love to chat again over coffee. When: Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Where: Waiting area for blood lab. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916222

CHEESECAKE LOVE TRIANGLE

Me, when I’m buying cheese, and you’re like, “Look at me, Miss I-got-a-degreeI-know-how-to-use-words, and Mr. Got-a-degree-I-draw-cute-characters, deﬁnitely can’t forget Ms. I-got-a-degreeand-can-color-a-cake,” but you guys are absolutely amazing. It was amazing to see how amazing you are! When: Monday, December 16, 2024. Where: Work. You: Group. Me: Man. #916221

LOVELY WOMAN AT CHECKOUT

We chatted eagerly at the checkout of a grocery store in the evening. You had a lovely smile and asked me questions about my recent “bright-eyed” move to Vermont. I asked about your studies (bio and computer-related). After you left, my heart felt buoyed by the connection! Lunch sometime? When: Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Where: South Burlington grocery store. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916220

POOL TABLE MISHAP

I’ve been bothered for weeks now that you brought your small child in to play a round of pool and it was ruined by a rude comment. I applaud you for turning right around, and would like to ask that you try again. When: Sunday, November 10, 2024. Where: Monkey. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916219

CHEEZ WHIZ WOMAN

I was shopping, and from across the aisle, I saw her slicing meats. She was with a man who smelt like bad provolone, but she smelled like a delicious Cheez Whiz with her pretty eyes and amazing bun. I wish she could be mine, with those cheesy little slicing ﬁngers. When: Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Where: Shaw’s. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916218

SKATING AT GIORGETTI

Monday afternoon public skating. I loved watching how graceful you were, practicing and circling, gliding backwards, all the while keeping an eye on your young companion. You had on a vest of some bright color, maybe magenta, and while lacing up I overheard you talking to a colleague about the Grand Tetons. Anyway, you made it look easy — and fun! When: Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Where: Giorgetti Arena, Rutland. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916217

TO MY BELOVED

Happy 21st anniversary! ank you for making every day better than the last. Home will always be with you. Come grow old with me — the best is yet to be. When: Wednesday, December 20, 2023. Where: Once upon a dream. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916216

MONTGOMERY WEED SHOP

We walked in at the same time, and you thought you recognized me from somewhere. You were browsing the choices with your partner, inside. I smiled a goodbye when I left. I’m intrigued and curious about the recognition. With full respect to your attached status, should we try to ﬁgure it out? When: Monday, December 16, 2024. Where: Mary Jane shop in Montgomery. You: Couple. Me: Man. #916215

RE: BE HONEST

She is who she is. Clearly she has no interest in respecting you. Don’t you think you deserve better? When: Monday, December 16, 2024. Where: I Spy. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916213

and heard it all, so there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Imagine how much more embarrassed you’d be if you wound up at the doctor’s ofﬁce because you burned your butt attempting to do it yourself.

You can buy at-home kits, but there are a whole lot of things that could go wrong: infection, skin damage, permanent discoloration or scarring, to name a few. It’s one thing to bleach your hair at home, but when you’re dealing with sensitive bits below the belt, it’s best to consult a professional.

An experienced dermatologist or aesthetician has seen

e results of anal bleaching, even when done by a pro, aren’t permanent, so you’d have to keep doing it to keep up appearances. at could get costly.

Being concerned about the shade of one’s ass crack is a prime example of a manufactured insecurity. Certain media and marketing schemes strive to convince us that something completely normal about our body is wrong in order to sell us products. Your bum is probably beautiful just the way it is, but if it will truly make you feel better about yourself, go ahead and bleach your ass off.

Good luck and God bless, The

I am a 68-y/o noble knight with a golden sword. I have escaped the Evil Queen and her castle. I seek a maiden for adventure, pleasure and merriment exploring our Green Mountain State. #L1819

ree men, ages 50 and 60s. One bi, two gay. Get together once a week at my place in Burlington. Looking for another guy to join us. Safe, sane and discreet. If interested, send phone number. Play with us! #L1820

SWF, 50, seeking a SWM, 48 to 58, to homestead and live a quiet life. I am sincere, ready to settle down, artistic and love dogs. #L1818

I’m a 60-y/o SWF seeking a 55- to 70-y/o SM. Retired, healthy, ﬁt and outdoorsy. ISO a kindred spirit with whom to share Vermont’s trails. I enjoy mountain and gravel biking, cross-country skiing, and yearround hiking, as well as a good Vermont brew, current events, reading and eating as locally as possible. Self-deprecating sense of humor a plus! #L1816

I am an 80-y/o woman seeking a man, 76 to 80 y/o. I am looking for friendship and companionship. Be able to share life for as long as we can, and do things together for fun. Let’s enjoy life. #L1817

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PUBLISH YOUR MESSAGE ON THIS PAGE!

1 Submit your FREE message at sevendaysvt.com/loveletters or use the handy form at right.

We’ll publish as many messages as we can in the Love Letters section above.

Interested readers will send you letters in the mail. No internet required!

I’m a SWF, 71 y/o, seeking a white or Black man 50 to 70 y/o. I want companionship, movies, warmth; I love music and live in Woodstock. Phone calls only. #L1815

GM looking for a man or men for mutual pleasure. Maybe develop into LTR or FWB. Would like regular or semiregular visits. Fun and adventurous. #L1812

Single woman, 59. Wise, mindful. Seeking tight unit with man, friend, love. Country living, gardens, land to play on. Emotionally, intellectually engaged. Lasting chats. Appreciation for past experience. Please be kind, stable and well established. Phone number, please. #L1813

I’m an 80-y/o man in good health. I own a ranch house on Route 110 in Tunbridge, south of fairgrounds. Never married. No children, retired. Like going out to eat and riding around. Looking for a nice lady for a long-term relationship. #L1810

I miss the touch, the ﬂirting, the taste, the smell of a woman. I’m 69, retired and disabled. I also have many facets that make me up. NEK please, thanks. #L1811

CD into fetish? Tight and shiny clothing? #L1814

Int net-Free Dating!

SWM, bi, seeking guys for fun. Any race. I’m 6’1, 175 pounds. Clean, safe and discreet. Love being a bottom. Respond with a phone number. #L1804

76-y/o male seeking a female. Widower, Burlington resident, gardener, ﬁsherman and writer wants to meet you for dinner, movies, events and conversation. You: old, kind, no issues. Possible friendship, LTR. I don’t watch football. #L1807

I’m a sweet, ﬁt, busy 48y/o DILF type seeking a 28- to 68-y/o-ish woman who wants some more affection in her life. Let’s have a great evening together every month and share good memories and joyful anticipation in between. #L1806

I’m a SWM seeking a Black couple, both bi. I’m clean, a nonsmoker and don’t drink. Would like a weekly meet, on weekends. My place is private. I only date Black men and women. Age no problem. Phone. Serious. #L1802

Describe yourself and who you’re looking for in 40 words below: (OR, ATTACH A SEPARATE PIECE OF PAPER.)

I’m a

AGE + GENDER (OPTIONAL) seeking a

AGE + GENDER (OPTIONAL)

BELOW.

Handsome SWM, young-looking 60, yearning for a woman’s connection and intimacy. Seeking friendly relations with slim-average 45- to 60-y/o, kind, smart, respectful, humorous, playful. Activities indoors and outdoors — dinners, talks, walks, nature, TV, entertainment, day trips, overnights, spontaneity, hobbies, more. #L1803

Mid-60s, SWM, 6’, 175 pounds. Looking for a forever romance, but just meeting with new friends can work, too! Extremely romantic and passionate! I stay active as I run, hike, bike; play golf, tennis and pickleball; and work out at the Edge. Full of spontaneity and love dancing, travel. I will love you snuggling in my arms always as I shower you with love and romance! #L1801

I’m a 54-y/o male seeking a 50- to 60-y/o female. Looking for an honest person. Sex is less important. I enjoy taking walks, soft rock and movies, in or out. Love to go out to eat. No drugs, no smoking. #L1800

(MORE)

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