Seven Days, September 20, 2023

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG, PAGE 28

broke racial barriers, but only long after his death.

complicated.

COMPILED BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN & MATTHEW ROY

emoji that CASH INFUSION

Vermont announced it will provide $55 million in low-interest loans to a ordable housing developers. A needed shot in the arm.

STATE COLLEGES CHANCELLOR TO DEPART

Sophie Zdatny, chancellor of the Vermont State Colleges System, announced on Monday that she will step down at the end of the year in what will be the latest high-profile departure. Trustees were already working to hire a new interim president for Vermont State University, the flagship school.

Zdatny, whose tenure has included three and a half years of cost-cutting and change, announced her decision after a board retreat at the Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee. She said administrators have done much to help the system succeed.

“I feel like now is a perfect time to step away,” Zdatny said in an interview. “We’ve worked with the legislature to increase the base appropriation. We’ve launched the new university and got accreditation. We’ve got a really strong team in the chancellor’s office.”

“It is bittersweet to accept her resignation, but I speak for all trustees in wishing her well,” board chair Lynn Dickinson said in a written statement.

Zdatny, 59, has worked for the colleges since 2014, including as general counsel. She was appointed interim chancellor in April 2020 when her predecessor, Jeb Spaulding, resigned. He’d sparked an uproar by proposing to close three of the system’s four residential campuses to shore up finances.

Zdatny was given the full-time gig in July 2020. By then

CREATURE COMFORT

Fear is a common human reaction to a slithering snake or a hairy spider. But a new nonprofit aims to change attitudes about the oft-maligned animals through outreach and education.

St. Albans resident Corrina King founded the Vermont Herpetofauna and Nature Center in June. King, who has degrees in environmental studies and freshwater biology and works for the Missisquoi River Basin Association, said she’s always dreamed of creating a place where people can learn how to care for and protect reptiles, amphibians and arachnids. Earlier this year, she put out a call on Facebook to see if anyone wanted

700

That was the weight in pounds of a whoopie pie baked for a Rutland festival celebrating the sweet treat.

TOPFIVE

MOST POPULAR ITEMS ON SEVENDAYSVT.COM

1. “A Young Couple Relocated 3,000 Miles to Buy a Legacy Vegetable Farm in Brandon,” by Will Solomon. A rough growing season has not discouraged Dan and Elyse Wulfkuhle.

HANDS OFF

An arrest warrant for Daniel Banyai, owner of the Slate Ridge complex, has expired without his arrest. That’s not how this usually works…

the campus closure idea had been shelved, but the system was operating at a deficit and losing students. at led to the merger of Northern Vermont University, Castleton University and Vermont Technical College into Vermont State University, which officially opened in July.

A new president of that institution, Parwinder Grewal, resigned in April after his proposal to remove books from the libraries led to protests. Community members accused administrators of inflating their own pay — including Zdatny’s $238,000 annual salary — while cutting vital programs and services.

Mike Smith stepped in as the interim leader but vowed to work for only six months, a period that ends in October. e board is seeking to hire another interim president to serve until summer 2025 while it finds a permanent leader. At its meeting on Monday, the board interviewed two candidates for the interim job, according to Zdatny.

Vermont State University’s new student enrollment is down 15 percent this year. It has roughly 5,200 students: more than 4,000 undergraduates, 500 graduate students and 700 in apprenticeships.

“Reductions in student [numbers] were anticipated and budgeted for,” Smith said last week. “We know this is a strong foundation on which to build future classes who will grow in numbers and skill each year.”

Read Anne Wallace Allen’s full story at sevendaysvt.com.

to help. Dozens of like-minded people volunteered.

Ultimately, King said, she wants to purchase a building that would serve as a hands-on educational center where people could surrender animals for rehabilitation and adoption.

But first, the nonprofit has to raise money. It’s planning a fundraising event, Sips and Slithers, at a local brewery. King and others from the organization

FAST FOOD

Johnson’s lone grocery store, Sterling Market, plans to rebuild after the July flooding. Welcome news for the community.

ON THE BOOKS

The Champlain Valley School District is creating a policy that a rms transgender and gendernonconforming students’ rights. It’s among the first in Vermont to do so.

2. “‘Jumping Worm’ Ruins a Burlington Garden Club’s Plans for a Plant Sale,” by Colin Flanders. Worries about spreading the invader motivated the group to hold a yard sale instead.

3. “Learning Curve: Northfield Newcomers Launch a Childcare Program,” by Alison Novak. Not long after arriving in town, a couple learned that local parents shared an urgent need.

4. “‘Imminent’ Landslide Risk Leaves Five Barre City Residents in Limbo,” by Rachel Hellman. Several people have been homeless for months due to a bureaucratic morass triggered by a landslide that hasn’t happened — yet.

5. “Vermont’s ‘Fluffy the Floating Cloud Bank’ Was the Silver Lining to a Soggy Burning Man,” by Ken Picard. SunCommon cofounder Duane Peterson reported that the refitted school bus hosted dance parties after rains stranded people in the muddy desert.

@nasscarfast48

this part of this power line at my bus stop looks like vermont bro

have also been posting entertaining videos of critters in action on the org’s YouTube channel and visiting schools and libraries with “animal ambassadors.”

ey include King’s 38-inch ball python, Teddy Bear, whom she describes as a “sweet little snuggle snake.” To prepare him for his role, King has been placing him in the middle of a table while her family is playing Yahtzee. King’s menagerie includes two other ball pythons,

Basil and Luna; a corn snake, Noodle; a crested gecko, Cookie; a fire-bellied toad; and a tortoise.

On October 14, the Vermont Herpetofauna and Nature Center will partner with the Saint Albans Museum for a free Reptile Day, featuring displays on animal husbandry and Vermont’s native species. Visitors can also make jewelry using shedded snakeskin and get photographed holding Teddy Bear or another reptile.

Tarantulas will also be on hand, but they won’t leave their enclosures.

“With a large group of people, that can get a little worrisome,” King said. “You want something a little bit more contained.”

For more information, visit vthnc.org.

FOLLOW US ON X @SEVENDAYSVT OR VISIT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/TWITTER

Animal ambassador Teddy Bear

Chancellor Sophie Zdatny (far right) at a meeting in June

THE TWILIGHT ZONE.

publisher & editor-in-chief

Paula Routly

deputy publisher Cathy Resmer

AssociAte publishers Don Eggert, Colby Roberts

NEWS & POLITICS

editor Matthew Roy

deputy editor Sasha Goldstein

consulting editors Ken Ellingwood, Candace Page

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

ARTS & CULTURE

coeditors Dan Bolles, Carolyn Fox

AssociAte editor Margot Harrison

Art editor Pamela Polston

Music editor Chris Farnsworth

cAlendAr writer Emily Hamilton

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

proofreAders Carolyn Fox, Angela Simpson

AssistAnt proofreAders

Katherine Isaacs, Martie Majoros, Elizabeth M. Seyler

DIGITAL & VIDEO

digitAl production speciAlist Bryan Parmelee

senior MultiMediA producer Eva Sollberger

MultiMediA journAlist James Buck

DESIGN

creAtive director Don Eggert

Art director Rev. Diane Sullivan

production MAnAger John James

designers Jeff Baron, Kirsten Thompson

SALES & MARKETING

director of sAles Colby Roberts

Account executives

senior

Robyn Birgisson, Michael Bradshaw

Account executives Michelle Brown, Logan Pintka

events & ticKeting MAnAger Katie Olson

legAls, lifelines And super reAder coordinAtor

Kaitlin Montgomery

ADMINISTRATION

business MAnAger Marcy Stabile

director of circulAtion & logistics Matt Weiner

circulAtion deputy Andy Watts

AssistAnt to the publishers Gillian English

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jordan Adams, Justin Boland, Alex Brown, Annie Cutler, Chelsea Edgar, Erik Esckilsen, Steve Goldstein, Colleen Goodhue, Margaret Grayson, Amy Lilly, Rachel Mullis, Bryan Parmelee, Mark Saltveit, Jim Schley, Carolyn Shapiro, Casey Ryan Vock

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Luke Awtry, Daria Bishop, James Buck, Kevin Goddard, Caleb Kenna, Steve Legge, Tim Newcomb

FOUNDERS

Pamela Polston, Paula Routly

CIRCULATION: 35,000

Seven Days is published by Da Capo Publishing Inc. every Wednesday. It is distributed free of charge in greater Burlington, Middlebury, Montpelier, Northeast Kingdom, Stowe, the Mad River Valley, Rutland, St. Albans, St. Johnsbury, White River Junction and Plattsburgh, N.Y.

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If a mistake is ours, and the advertising purpose has been rendered valueless, Seven Days may cancel the charges for the advertisement, or a portion thereof as deemed reasonable by the publisher. Seven Days reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including inserts, at the discretion of the publishers. ©2023 Da

BREAD AND PUPPET BELIEFS

Chelsea Edgar’s prizeworthy story on Bread and Puppet Theater and its creative genius, Peter Schumann, is both entertainingly informative and astute [“Circus of Life,” August 30]. The revelation that Schumann’s work is partly inspired by the Oberammergau, a German religious pageant from the Middle Ages, helps to explain some of the troupe’s imagery, practices and politics.

From conversations I’ve had with a Schumann family member, I gather that the family is spiritually devout, if not overtly Catholic. Surely, the free rye bread provided to pageant-goers is Schumann’s take on the much blander Communion wafer. The anti-capitalist imagery has distant echoes of the early church’s prohibition against banking (money lending), and the very name Resurrection Circus has an obvious religious connotation.

As Edgar’s story points out, performers tend to lose their individual identities in bringing Schumann’s singular vision to life. Such surrender of ego can be dangerous, however. I share Schumann’s anti-war view and reverence for nature, but I find some of his other political positions simply wrong. Other recent movements have used pageantry and trancelike participant loyalty to horrible effect, notably both Nazism and Communism. The movie Midsommar portrays an intentional community in a remote part of Sweden that is based on ancient practices and rituals, with the goal of escaping the deadening distractions of the modern world. The white clothes and disturbingly cryptic posters remind me of Bread and Puppet, but the movie gradually reveals the horror this particular single-minded community generates.

Schumann is a phenomenally gifted and energetic master creator, and his contributions to art and to the Vermont ethos are immense, but we shouldn’t overlook the pre-Enlightenment, prehumanist roots of his vision.

Andy Leader NORTH MIDDLESEX

DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION DIDN’T WORK

I had tears in my eyes and an ache in my gut while reading the tragic saga of Mbyayenge “Robbie” Mafuta [“From Room 37 to Cell 17: A Young Man’s Path Through the Mental Health Care System Led to Prison

Capo Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

— and a Fatal Encounter,” September 6]. Surely, all of us have failed him.

I was in nursing school in the 1970s when the mass deinstitutionalization of patients in residential treatment centers occurred across the country. This was considered the next great idea in mental health, given the expense of “warehousing” and the fact that some residents were not appropriate for this level of care.

Some, but not all. Since then, I have worked in emergency rooms, college campuses, homeless shelters, a community mental health center and, now, in an opioid treatment program. All of this qualifies me to state, without reservation, that the “great idea” of 50 years ago has been a massive failure.

There are two miracles in the story of Robbie.

1. He is still alive

2. “Only” one person has been seriously harmed by him, after several years of encounters with our legal and medical systems.

If I may wish for a third miracle, it would be that our communities make a

deeper commitment to protect some of our most vulnerable citizens and, in doing so, protect others who are at risk of being harmed. Why are individuals who are so obviously ill still sleeping on our streets or in jail cells? Why can we not create mandated residential care for more than a few days at a time? I have no answers, only a willingness to be part of the solution.

Rebecca Hill MONTPELIER

WELCOME ALL FREELOADERS

[Re “Burlington Council Moves to Declare the Drug Crisis a Top Priority,” September 7]: Burlington’s city council need only look in the mirror and not be shocked that its very policies of the past few years have resulted in a Church Street with more druggies shooting up in broad daylight and panhandlers looking for funds for their next high than local shoppers or tourists.

(Those who do come are shocked.)

Gutting our dedicated and responsive Burlington Police Department and opening many homeless shelters without work requirements, along with the state’s huge safety net catching those with no means to contribute nor duty to do so, have resulted in the city of Burlington being known across the country as the City That Welcomes All Freeloaders.

Many of us who regularly enjoyed heading to Church Street to shop or dine now go downtown only when we must, and the many local retailers who rely on robust foot traffic — with money, not drugs, in their pockets — are the true losers. Some of those very city council members who created this current crisis are no longer setting policy and making decisions, but

the result of past city council decisions is evident by walking down Church Street or passing the dreadful YMCA or Memorial Auditorium buildings.

The legacy their decisions has created will take more years to fix than the rapid deterioration of our beloved Burlington has taken.

Policies that enable drug use, such as safe injection sites, certainly aren’t the answer. Nor is providing more services with little or no accountability. And while I am glad that I no longer pay Burlington property taxes, the tragic condition of downtown Burlington has profound consequences for every Vermonter.

Nancy Berger SHELBURNE

PAYING PLENTY IN BRANDON

[Re “Fiber for Few: Some Vermonters Find the Cost of Newly Expanded Broadband Is Too High,” September 13]: I think it’s worth mentioning that expensive broadband isn’t a Northeast Kingdom issue; it’s a Vermont issue. I live in Rutland County, and my service (Comcast) is $80 a month for internet only, not including fees and taxes.

Brandon is certainly a “remote area.” I think the cost is a touch on the high side (my rate doubled every three years after I subscribed), but it’s what you get when you live in a state that makes it very expensive for these monopolies to operate. Just my two cents.

Miles Krans BRANDON

CORRECTIONS

Last week’s story “Bridge Over Troubled Water” mischaracterized the role of Vermont Works for Women in replacing newspaper boxes. The organization is donating the boxes. The story also placed Vermont Works for Women in the wrong city. It’s based in Winooski.

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NEWS+POLITICS 14

Wayne’s World

Armed with a video camera, one man documents crime and disorder in Burlington

Cannabis Entrepreneur Says He Was ‘Hoodwinked’ in Merger Deal

Testy Talks

Budget negotiations sour between regulators and Vermont’s biggest hospital

FEATURES 28

Road Scholars

In a classic Vermont mountain rally, winning takes precision and smarts, not speed

ARTS+CULTURE 46

The Poet Next Door

FOOD +DRINK 40

Bringing Havana Home

celebrates Cuban American food and culture in Burlington

Man Who Murdered His Wife in 1993 Is Denied Parole

Sourdough Saviors

Friends and strangers come to the aid of a scammed baker

Eat More Kale — With This Sauce

Reader recipe request for “Lesbian Kale Salad”

COLUMNS

Ellen Bryant Voigt talks about her new landmark volume of Collected Poems

Battle Lines eater review: Time Stands Still, Green Room Productions

Page 32

Short takes on five Vermont books

Montpelier’s Lost Nation Theater Returns to Its Home Stage for Sam & Jim in Hell

Making Connections

Remnants of the past coalesce with contemporary work in “Art at the Kent”

20, started delivering mail to the City-5 route in Montpelier on

2. He took over the route from his dad, Craig, who inherited it from his father, Dave. And Dave followed in the footsteps of his pa, Harold. Eva Sollberger headed to Montpelier

MAGNIFICENT

THURSDAY 21-SATURDAY 23

Dead Zone

A town zoning meeting turns lethal in Developed to Death! A Murder Mystery Dinner eater Production at American Legion Post 7 in Hardwick. Over three morbidly mouthwatering courses, audiences enjoy this hilarious whodunit performed by Civic Standard eater Project actors — and several local luminaries playing themselves.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 68

FRIDAY 22

Folk Revival

Nepali folk music meets American bluegrass when Himalayan Highway perform at the Integrated Arts Academy in Burlington. e foursome — Shyam Nepali on the fiddle-like sarangi, Pramod Upadhyaya on tabla hand drums, Zoe Levitt on mandolin and Alex Formento on guitar — reveals the beautiful harmonies between these two musical traditions from across the globe.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 69

FRIDAY 22

Why So Serious?

SUNDAY 24

YOU’LL NEVER STANZA LONE

Poetry people flock to the second weekly installment of Words Out Loud, the annual reading and discussion series at the Old West Church in Calais. Sarah Audsley, a northern Vermonter and author most recently of the collection Landlock X, is joined by Nadine Budbill, the executor of beloved Vermont wordsmith David Budbill’s literary estate, to discuss poetry, place and the passage of time.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 70

FRIDAY 22

Four’s a Crowd

What is a Mrs. Roper Romp, you ask? Well, it’s a dance party/bar crawl where everyone is dressed as the seminally sexual “ ree’s Company” character Helen Roper, of course. For the first time, White River Junction residents don their caftans and curly wigs and partake in this nationwide phenomenon at the Main Street Museum, Putnam’s vine/yard and other downtown spots.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 68

e 1928 silent melodrama e Man Who Laughs might not, at first glance, seem to have anything to do with Batman. But fans of the Caped Crusader who come to the screening at Brattleboro’s Epsilon Spires — featuring a live pipe organ score by Ben Model — find that the film’s central, scarred carnival performer served as the visual inspiration for the character of the Joker.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 68

OPENS WEDNESDAY 27

Rights Here, Rights Now

Jammie Patton directs Cadillac Crew, Vermont Stage’s latest production, at Burlington’s Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center. e fourcharacter play, written by acclaimed playwright and screenwriter Tori Sampson, follows a group of female Civil Rights activists contemplating the intersection of feminism and anti-racism on the eve of a landmark Rosa Parks speech.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 72

ONGOING Well, Oil Be

Johnson artist Joseph Salerno presents his new solo show “Inside & Out: Landscapes to Relics” at Shelburne’s Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery. e exhibit features earthy, al fresco landscapes and still lifes that display characteristic rough edges and indistinct shapes that nonetheless coalesce into bold, striking images.

SEE GALLERY LISTING ON PAGE 57

Sarah Audsley

Hot Tickets

Two weeks ago, Seven Days turned 28. Not a remarkable number in terms of divisibility, but a heck of a long time to run a local newspaper against all odds.

We started this endeavor in 1995 with $68,000 borrowed from friends. No angel investors alighted to help; for years the company didn’t even have a credit card. Because we didn’t have any money to lose, we quickly learned how to make it. The goal was as black and white as ink on newsprint: We needed to generate enough cash through print ad sales each week to cover the costs of creating a newspaper — including the print bill, which had to be prepaid.

I’m proud to say that hustle remains, from the newsroom to the “managers’ meetings” where we often hatch ideas for new products.

Over the years we’ve added specialty publications such as our parenting quarterly, Kids VT, and events including the Vermont Tech Jam — on October 21 at Hula in Burlington! If you’ve read our articles online, gotten one of our email newsletters or watched an episode of “Stuck in Vermont,” you know that we’ve also amped up our digital offerings.

One thing you might have missed: Seven Days is in the ticketing business. Gone are the days when almost every presenter in Vermont sold tickets to their events through the Flynn Box Office and you could go there and buy them from a human being. Now just about everyone, including the Flynn, uses some form of online ticketing platform. In exchange for the convenience of being able to buy tickets on a digital device, you pay service charges that can get pretty exorbitant.

Events that aren’t big enough for Ticketmaster often wind up on self-serve national ticketing sites such as San Francisco-based Eventbrite.

In 2016, we saw an opportunity to offer a local version that would keep more of this money in Vermont. We partnered with a national ticketing vendor and customized our own service: Seven Days Tickets. Its fees are less than Eventbrite’s, and tireless ticketing manager Katie Olson provides customer

service for event organizers and ticket buyers, often in person. Advertising support in the paper and on the website sweetens the deal.

The pandemic accelerated the trend toward online ticketing, and Seven Days Tickets has taken off. Over the past two years, Katie has brought countless event organizers back into the local fold: the Vermont Brewers Festival, Isham Family Farm, National Life Group, Hotel Vermont, Montpelier Alive. Last month, the Essex Experience began moving its ticketing business from a faceless digital platform to this newspaper, a virtual clearinghouse of local culture.

Compiling our extensive calendar of events is a full-time job, done every week by the meticulous Emily Hamilton, and the revenue we get from brokering ticket sales helps offset the cost of that public service.

It’s just another way we finance this scrappy, ambitious, free local newspaper that keeps you connected to your community. Keep that in mind when you hit the checkout screen to buy tickets for a Green Mountain Book Festival workshop or the Vermont Steampunk Expo.

Paula Routly

If you like Seven Days and can afford to help pay for it, become a Super Reader! Look for the “Give Now” buttons at the top of sevendaysvt.com. Or send a check with your address and contact info to:

SEVEN DAYS, C/O SUPER READERS

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For more information on making a financial contribution to Seven Days, please contact Kaitlin Montgomery:

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COURTESY OF KATIE PALATUCCI

Hotel Vermont’s Ice Bar in 2022

THE PANDEMIC ACCELERATED THE TREND TOWARD ONLINE TICKETING, AND SEVEN DAYS TICKETS HAS TAKEN OFF.

MURDERER

Wayne’s World

Armed with a video camera, one man documents crime and disorder in Burlington

BY COURTNEY LAMDIN • courtney@sevendaysvt.com

It was only 10 a.m., but Wayne and Cheryl Savage were driving to Costco for ice cream sundaes on a humid Thursday in early September. Then the police scanner crackled to life, prompting Wayne to take a detour. The treat would have to wait.

“I’m gonna pull into City Hall Park,” he said, whipping into a parking spot on College Street in downtown Burlington. “They’ve got an unresponsive person there.”

“Oh, Lord,” Cheryl said, because these calls happen all the time, including several already that morning.

Savage, a utility belt circling his generous waist, grabbed his handheld video camera, leaving his wife of 47 years in the air-conditioned comfort of their midsize SUV. He approached the cops clustered around the park bathroom, where a man inside had overdosed. Savage zoomed in on the man, who was being wheeled into

an ambulance with an oxygen mask a xed to his face. Another overdose call came minutes later, sending two o cers running across the park to Main Street, where a woman who had already been revived with

Cannabis Entrepreneur Says He Was ‘Hoodwinked’ in Merger Deal

BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN sasha@sevendaysvt.com

Narcan five times that day was going under again. One of the o cers said there must be a bad batch of drugs going around.  His job done, Savage started back toward his car. “As always, good seeing

you, Wayne!” a police lieutenant called after him.

A Burlington man is suing the Canadian company that merged with his cannabis business as part of a $25 million deal in 2021. Shayne Lynn of High Fidelity claims that executives at Toronto-based SLANG Worldwide “used unlawful sharp practices to hoodwink” him about SLANG’s financial condition before taking over his company.

Lynn once held two medical marijuana licenses and operated stores under the name Champlain Valley Dispensary and Southern Vermont Wellness. He later changed the name to CeresMED, which operated under a parent company, High Fidelity.

SLANG, a publicly traded company, buys and sells licenses for cannabis edibles and accessories. Executives told Lynn the company “was financially sound and had a bright economic future,” the suit says, and they promised Lynn $18 million to finance his plans for growth. In reality, SLANG executives were aware the company “was losing money and would not survive without an influx of cash to support continued operations,” the suit says.

Much of the merger deal involved stock options, meaning SLANG’s success was critical for Lynn’s High Fidelity shareholders to make any money. e acquisition of “valuable assets” such as Lynn’s company, according to the suit, would be attractive to lenders.

MEDIA

Burlington cops have seen a lot of Wayne Savage over the years. Queen City born and bred, he’s been documenting emergency scenes for four decades, selling his film and video to news outlets for extra cash or just for the hell of it. Even at 66 years old, he can’t resist when the scanner beckons.

And, oh, has it beckoned. Open drug use, gun violence and thefts downtown have generated widespread unease over public safety as the city contends with an opioid epidemic, a mental health crisis and a severe shortage of a ordable housing. Savage, literally tethered to the mayhem by an ever-present earpiece connected to his scanner, has captured it all on film. What

Lynn and Bridget Conry, another CeresMED executive, are preparing to open a cannabis retail shop of their own — High Fidelity — on Cherry Street in Burlington. SLANG Vermont, meanwhile, opened Ceres Collaborative just blocks away on College Street in Burlington last October. It’s one of the more successful cannabis shops in the state and, according to SLANG Worldwide’s recent financial statements, the only profitable arm of its multistate business ventures.

Filed in Vermont Superior Court last month, the suit accuses SLANG, its cofounder and former board chair Peter Miller, and its former CEO Christopher Driessen of fraud and negligent misrepresentation.

SLANG did not respond to requests for comment. ➆

IF YOU’RE GOOD WITH THE CAMERA AND KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DOING, YOU CAN TELL THE STORY WITHOUT HAVING TO SAY A SINGLE WORD.

WAYNE SAVAGE

Shayne Lynn in 2017

COURTNEY LAMDIN news

Testy Talks

Budget negotiations sour between regulators and Vermont’s biggest hospital

BY COLIN FLANDERS • colin@sevendaysvt.com

Tensions were already high last month during the annual review of the University of Vermont Medical Center’s budget when state regulator Owen Foster launched into a pointed line of questioning.

The former federal prosecutor, in his first year chairing the Green Mountain Care Board, had just listened to hospital officials explain how improved billing practices would allow the hospital to get more money from Medicare moving forward.

Officials at the UVM Health Network, the umbrella organization that oversees the medical center, hoped to show the regulators that they were trying to reduce the hospital’s reliance on private insurance companies, whose rising costs get passed down to patients.

But Foster had a different takeaway. To him, the hospital was acknowledging that it had been leaving tens of millions of federal dollars on the table for years. That’s tough to stomach, he said, when many Vermonters can’t afford their plans.

said, frustrated. “I don’t think our job here is to try to put blame on different people.”

“It sounds like you just did,” Foster shot back.

The tenor of the meeting caught the attention of the UVM Health Network’s trustees, who, in a letter to lawmakers, accused the board of overstepping its authority and acting unprofessionally.

Last week, the regulators agreed to let the hospital take in an extra 7.6 percent in revenue next fiscal year, as it had requested. But they limited how much of that could come from insurance companies, approving only a 3.1 percent increase — far less than the hospital’s ask of 10 percent. They placed similar limitations on six of the state’s 13 other nonprofit hospitals.

UVM Health Network officials say they aren’t sure yet what this means for their operations. But the cuts seem to show that regulators are willing to act aggressively to curb health care costs in coming years — even if that means clashing with Vermont’s largest hospital.

Established in 2011 and charged with containing health care spending and advancing reform efforts, the fivemember Green Mountain Care Board sets health insurance rates and approves budgets for all 14 of Vermont’s nonprofit hospitals. Its governor-appointed members serve six-year terms, earn salaries well over $100,000 and hold some of the strongest oversight authority of any health care regulators in the country. But for all of their potential power, they must constantly balance two competing priorities: making sure patients have access to high-quality care and keeping costs low.

Foster’s point seemed to puzzle Sunny Eappen, UVM Health Network’s president and CEO, who himself was in his first Vermont budget cycle. Sure, Eappen said, if the issue had been remedied years ago, it would have saved Vermonters money. But to improve, the hospital will inevitably find things that it could have done better in the past.

When Foster pressed the matter, Eappen cut him off. The billing issue would have been caught by “good regulators,” he

The tension between these two goals is most apparent during the board’s review of the UVM Medical Center’s budget, which is by far the largest in the state. Each year, hospital leaders submit their spending plans and warn that any concessions could affect patient care.

But a growing hospital budget inevitably leads to Vermonters paying higher health insurance premiums. As a result, patient advocates say, more people are signing up for cheaper, high-deductible plans that risk socking them with debt.

THE CUTS SEEM TO SHOW THAT REGULATORS ARE WILLING TO ACT AGGRESSIVELY TO CURB HEALTH CARE COSTS IN COMING YEARS — EVEN IF THAT MEANS CLASHING WITH VERMONT’S LARGEST HOSPITAL.

Man Who Murdered His Wife in 1993 Is Denied Parole

BY RACHEL HELLMAN rhellman@sevendaysvt.com

A convicted murderer who was recently granted a chance at parole will remain behind bars after a state board denied his request.

Gregory Fitzgerald, 66, appeared virtually before the Vermont Parole Board for the first time on Tuesday. He’s been in prison since his conviction for killing his wife, Amy Fitzgerald, a 30-year-old Gulf War veteran, in 1993 in her Shelburne condo.

Members of the board heard a statement from one of Amy’s brothers and asked Fitzgerald about classes he’d taken in prison and his plans for work if he were released.

In the end, the board wasn’t convinced he should be.

“At this time, you would be a detriment to the community and potentially harmful to the family of the victim,” board chair Dean George said of the majority decision after members deliberated in private.

Fitzgerald will be eligible for another parole hearing in two years.

He was originally sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, the harshest possible term in Vermont. But he earned a reprieve last year, when a judge signed off on a sentence of 35 years to life. Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George opposes lifewithout-parole sentences and agreed to reconsider Fitzgerald’s if he admitted his guilt — something he’d never done before or after his 1994 trial.

George said she was swayed by Fitzgerald’s claim that his trial lawyer did not accurately convey a plea offer that could have yielded a 30-year prison sentence.

e new deal led to Tuesday’s parole hearing. Fitzgerald, with shoulderlength gray hair, a bushy mustache and glasses, appeared virtually from Northern State Correctional Facility.

While Fitzgerald painted a picture of a man rehabilitated, his victim’s brother, Alan Zeltserman, described him as a calculating criminal. Zeltserman, who did not attend Tuesday’s hearing, submitted a statement that a victim advocate read to the board.

“I think every day of my poor sister and my poor parents, more so since resentencing,” his statement said. “I ask that you deny Fitzgerald parole.” ➆

he doesn’t sell to TV stations, he posts on social media.

His prolific dispatches and stark commentaries have sparked online debates about whether he is painting too grim a picture of the city. But Savage, who has a scrappy side, says his camera is merely capturing cold reality — and his neighbors need to wake up to it. His wife agrees.

“The way I see Wayne, he thinks he has a duty to show the public what’s really going on,” Cheryl said. “He’s kinda like the man behind the camera with the truth.”

‘WAYNE’S COMMAND POST’

The tools of Savage’s self-made trade are all accessible from his couch in the living room of his New North End home. A scanner announces one crisis after another, and battery chargers line a nearby shelf. A printout on the wall lists interstate mile marker numbers and their corresponding towns, a handy reference when a call comes in.

Cheryl calls the setup “Wayne’s Command Post.” He calls it necessary.

Savage discovered photography after taking a class as a sophomore at Burlington High School. He kept up with it after graduation as a newly minted Marine, snapping photos on deployments to Japan and South Korea. Back home, he got a job

managing the bygone Abraham’s Camera Center on the Church Street Marketplace.

Then, on a summer night in 1981, he took the picture that would launch thousands more. The Savages were eating dinner in their Pine Street apartment when they heard a crash. It was a motorcycle, and the driver was badly injured. Using a 35mm Nikon, Savage photographed the police and EMTs at the scene and donated the shots to the departments to use for training. They appreciated the help, Savage said, so he kept doing it.

Savage sold cameras by day and went to emergency calls at night. He didn’t have a car at first, so he’d run to scenes lugging 50 pounds of equipment. His shoestring e orts paid o in 1987, when his photo of

an arson fire at an abandoned waterfront grain mill made the front page of the Burlington Free Press. The exposure motivated him to keep going.

Savage had a number of odd jobs — entering invoices at a women’s clothing store, painting lines on Vermont roads — and a part-time gig with Burlington’s public works department actually helped his side hustle: He memorized the city street grid. He became a regular at scenes, often arriving before professional journalists did. He made a deal with the Free Press’ then-chief photographer, Jym Wilson.

“[If] my film’s better, he would use it,” Savage said. “Most of the time, it was.”

Savage won’t reveal how much he’s made stringing but did say the Free Press paid him a premium for big stories,

Wayne’s World « P.14

Wayne Savage talking with Burlington firefighters at a crash scene

Police responding to an overdose earlier this month

COURTNEY LAMDIN COURTESY OF WAYNE SAVAGE

Gregory Fitzgerald

particularly if they happened at odd hours — such as an early morning fire at Shelburne Farms that destroyed a historic dairy barn in 2016. That same year, he was the first photographer to respond when a wrong-way driver killed five teenagers in a head-on crash on Interstate 89 in Williston.

“If the sun was down and he was calling me, something bad had happened,” said Ryan Mercer, the Free Press chief photographer from 2006 to 2019.

Savage has been known to cut dinner short when the tones sound, preferring to feed his hobby rather than himself. He once tried to leave a hospital where he was being treated for a burst appendix to snap photos.

Cheryl is used to it by now and even sleeps through the scanner. Friends have said she needs to rein Wayne in, but she shrugs it off. Wayne supported her work — a three-decade career as head housekeeper at two hotels in Burlington — so she supports him.

But Cheryl does worry that some calls are dangerous. Last year in Burlington, gunfire was reported two dozen times. Savage, who was recovering from major surgery, responded to each call.

“I’ve been doing it for so long, I can’t get it out of my system,” he said — “even though I’m trying.”

‘BIT OF A PROPHET’

Years on the beat have sharpened Savage’s skills. As he drives to a scene, he plots where he’ll park so he can get the goods and get gone. When he arrives, he composes his shots so they’re made for TV. Vertically oriented video, for instance, is a no-no.

He’s also not afraid to get close-ups. One afternoon in July, a five-car crash brought traffic to a standstill on Main

Street. Savage took advantage of the relative calm to get into the right position.

His Sony video camera strapped to his hand, he stepped off the sidewalk toward a silver Chrysler, its rear door crumpled like used aluminum foil. The driver shot him a look, undoubtedly curious about the bearded man wearing an earpiece and pink Crocs, but the police officer talking with her paid him no mind.

Savage steadied his camera, breathing carefully, as he’d learned to do while firing his rifle as a young Marine, and walked past the fire trucks to capture the scene in short bursts: an older woman on a stretcher, making a phone call; a blue Honda in the wrong travel lane, its front end buried in a pickup truck’s bumper; a firefighter sweeping shattered glass.

“If you’re good with the camera and know what you’re doing,” Savage said, “you can tell the story without having to say a single word.”

First responders, including Police Chief Jon Murad and deputy fire Chief Derek Libby, praise Savage for his dedication — and timeliness.

“He’s a bit of a prophet,” one police officer at an overdose scene said. “He always shows up a minute after we get there. I don’t know how he does it.”

Savage’s subjects, however, aren’t so

Cheryl Savage

charmed by his savvy. In a video from earlier this year, a man who had been stabbed in the neck was being led to an ambulance when he noticed the camera. One hand stanching his wound, he flipped off Savage with the other.

Sometimes, Savage aggravates such conflicts. One June afternoon, he pulled up to a known drug house on lower Church Street just as police were making an arrest. A man yelled at him from the front stoop.

“Is that WCAX with a fake-ass camera?” the man said, approaching him. “What’s your name? How is that you can record me and I can’t know your fuckin’ name?”

The man followed Savage to his truck and kept heckling him, even after officers explained that Savage had the right to film from a public sidewalk.

Savage could have just stayed quiet. But he didn’t.

“Can’t fix stupid in this city, can ya?” he shouted, then rolled up the window and drove away.

‘DOCUMENTING REAL LIFE’

Savage starts most mornings with a stroll around his neighborhood.

He checks on the elderly woman who calls him “Angel” because he helps her around the house. He knocks on the window at a home daycare, spinning the kids inside into a frenzy. “Wayne, Wayne, Wayne!” they chant, offering him plastic food from their play sets.

It’s a close-knit community, and Savage doesn’t want his address published, lest the criminals he films read it in the newspaper.

After decades listening to a police scanner, it’s not surprising that Savage has a heightened, if not distorted, sense of danger. He gets frustrated that not everyone shares it.

In recent weeks, Savage has fired off angry emails to WCAX for not running his footage of homeless encampments or people overdosing in public spaces. Instead of considering that the station may have limited funds for freelancers — which is how news director Roger Garrity explains the situation — Savage charges that the “mainstream media” is hiding the truth.

So he found another outlet that doesn’t filter his content: a New North End neighborhood Facebook group of 1,900 members, in which he’s one of the most prolific contributors.

Some people have complained that videos of crime and disorder downtown aren’t relevant to the New North End. Others say the sheer number of Savage’s posts creates a false impression that Burlington is dangerous. “I’ve strongly considered leaving the group because of them,” one woman wrote.

A photo of a homeless encampment

at Leddy Park that shows the faces of its habitants proved particularly controversial. Some group members said Savage was exploiting people who need help. In a different post, someone suggested he

of police officers in pursuit of Eric Edson, a suspect in an armed robbery — the first leg of what would be a weeklong manhunt. Word got out that Savage had the scoop, and nearly 100 people requested to join the Facebook page. Police didn’t issue a press release about the incident until late that night.

“Ultimately, what he’s doing is documenting real life, real experiences, in real time,” Litwin said. “If anything comes out of this, it’s that we’re having real and difficult conversations.”

Savage’s motives are twofold. He likes to inform his community, sure, but he also wants to drum up support for the police force, which is slowly rebuilding after a council vote three years ago reduced its size through attrition. He thinks people don’t understand the burden the drug crisis has placed on first responders.

“These bleeding hearts [are] making excuses for what these people are doing,” he said of people with substance-use disorder, though he wouldn’t use that term. “People need to wake up and see what’s going on.”

After leaving City Hall Park, the Savages made it to Costco without incident. They said hello to a neighbor who was handing out samples of Greek yogurt and wandered to the food court.

volunteer for a charity. Savage replied that he does, every weekend, at the New North End Food Pantry. He tells his haters to block him.

The group’s administrator, Evan Litwin, said he thinks Savage is providing a public service. He pointed to a series of photos Savage posted earlier this month

Later that day, Savage would see his footage on the news and hear at least four more overdose calls on the scanner. But for the moment, the radio was relatively quiet, allowing Savage to reflect on how chasing sirens has hardened him. He’s considered leaving Burlington, maybe for a place like North Carolina.

“I would bet he’d do the same thing down there,” Cheryl said, between bites of strawberry ice cream. Her husband said he didn’t think so; he wouldn’t know the area.

“You’d get to know it,” Cheryl said. “I don’t think it’s out of your blood, ever.” ➆

A fire on North Winooski Avenue in Burlington in the 1980s

Critics say the care board has been too quick to give in to the hospital’s demands in past years. Some even accuse it of being too cozy with the health network, noting that two former care board chairs, Anya Rader Wallack and Al Gobeille, went on to receive high-paying gigs with the UVM Health Network.

The network, meanwhile, says the board has been far too aggressive, even when its hospitals receive most of what they ask for.

Last year, regulators reluctantly allowed the UVM Medical Center to charge commercial insurance companies 15 percent more because o cials said it would help the hospital regain its footing after the pandemic. The hospital had asked for 20 percent.

In response, then-network president John Brumsted blasted regulators for their “deep, arbitrary cuts.” He said the reduction — $35 million out of a $1.9 billion budget — would deal a “severe blow” to the hospital’s ability to treat patients.

A year later, the hospital’s finances seem to have rebounded. When the new commercial rates went into effect in January, the hospital’s operating margin immediately jumped back into the black, where it has remained ever since.

But the increase did have consequences for consumers. Nearly 2,000 Vermonters enrolled with the nation’s largest insurer, UnitedHealthcare, almost lost their coverage at UVM Health Network hospitals earlier this year due to a contract dispute. United, which took in $14 billion in profits last fiscal year, blamed the health network’s fast-rising prices, while UVM o cials accused the insurance behemoth of lowballing them. The two sides agreed to a last-minute deal to extend coverage through the end of the year, but it’s unclear

whether they will reach a new agreement from there.

And now, the hospital says it’s still on unstable financial ground. Executives pointed to recently negotiated contracts that include pay hikes for nurses, technical staff and resident physicians. The hospital is also investing in housing and childcare for employees, officials noted, while pursuing projects such as a new outpatient surgery center that should help reduce its well-documented backlogs for appointments and procedures.

Care board members weren’t convinced. Last month, they grilled the o cials about e ciency and questioned whether UVM’s proposal would hurt consumers and independent medical practices.

They also referred to the plum salaries of network higher-ups, such as the $2 million that Brumsted made in his final year.

“I’m not trying to take away your money at all,” Foster said. “I get it. You worked hard; you’re top-notch people. But there’s a lot of top-notch people working

really hard to pay [for insurance], and it’s hard for them to see that kind of number.”

Two weeks after that meeting, UVM Health Network trustees sent lawmakers a letter accusing the care board of “micromanaging” hospital budgets.  It singled out the board’s three newest members — Foster, Thom Walsh and David Murman, who were all appointed within the past two years — and accused them of making up their minds well before the review even began.

The board members used “rhetoric intended to demean our leaders, our boards and our employees,” the letter reads. “They had done so by advancing their own opinions and perceptions of expertise rather than through thoughtful review of hospital submissions and data.” The letter called on lawmakers to hold the board “accountable.”

The missive struck some observers as an attempt to intimidate the care board, which was created by the legislature. “Otherwise, why would hospital board members protest to the Legislature before a decision is even rendered?”

Bill Schubart, the former chair of Fletcher Allen Healthcare, the predecessor of UVM Medical Center, wrote in a column published on VTDigger.org over the weekend.

The letter prompted Rep. Lori Houghton (D-Essex Junction), who chairs the House Committee on Health Care, to review a recording of the August 23 meeting. She said nothing jumped out as problematic.

The care board’s focus on a ordability is precisely what the legislature intended for the body. “I think they provide a valuable piece of the system for health care in Vermont,” she said of the regulators.

A network spokesperson declined to

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make any of the trustees available for an interview, saying it would be inappropriate for them to speak about the network’s relationship with regulators before the care board publishes its official written decisions later this month.

The letter wasn’t the only action the UVM Health Network took behind the scenes. It also demanded that Murman recuse himself from deliberations, alleging that he has a conflict of interest because he and his wife are doctors in the network. Murman, an emergency room physician at the Central Vermont Medical Center, is the only health professional on the care board.

Before the hearings, Murman consulted with the state ethics commission and decided to abstain from discussing his hospital’s budget. He still planned to vote on the network’s other two Vermont hospitals, though. In a disclosure, he noted that the network would likely claim he has a conflict because physicians get paid bonuses based on their employer’s financial performance. He pledged to donate any extra pay to charity.

The network challenged him anyway, submitting a written recusal request a day before the August hearing. But because Murman would have had to respond in a formal hearing and the board was already on a tight timeline, he relented, recusing himself from votes on all three of the network’s hospitals.

On September 13, the four remaining

members unanimously backed the UVM Medical Center’s slimmed-down rate increase. They also ordered the hospital to submit a plan for reducing costs and containing growth.

Explaining his vote, Walsh, an adjunct professor at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice and an experienced health care consultant, said hospitals under financial stress typically take several predictable steps. They cut administrative positions, dock executive pay and put off infrastructure projects, he said.

The medical center, on the other hand, has several new projects in the works and is becoming even more top-heavy. It’s also trying to “intimidate the regulators,” he said, “while saying that they’ll be forced to cut services because their finances are in trouble.”

Walsh compared the hospital’s size and market power to being the only ice cream shop at the beach. If you can’t make money in such an environment, “it’s not the heavy hand of regulation that’s the problem,” he said. “It’s the business model.”

Dr. Sunny Eappen at a press conference in 2022

University of Vermont Medical Center

FALL 2023 SEASON

Sourdough Saviors

Friends and strangers come to the aid of a scammed baker

BY ANNE WALLACE ALLEN • anne@sevendaysvt.com

Nicole LaBonte thought she had found the perfect opportunity to expand her home baking business: an “end of summer fest” in South Burlington.

A Facebook ad for the event said up to 1,500 visitors were expected over the second weekend in September. LaBonte, who lives in Richford, talked to the organizer by phone to learn more. Then she sent her $50 by Venmo to reserve a booth for her business, called Love, Lydia, on Sunday morning.

LaBonte — who has three kids and a full-time job with the state court system — got to work, baking enough sourdough bread, cookies and other goods to fetch $1,500 at the market. That’s about triple the amount she usually makes for the Saturday farmers market in Morrisville.

But when LaBonte and her husband, Jamie, showed up at Veterans Memorial Park on September 10, there were no signs of a market. They asked a maintenance worker if he’d heard anything about one; he hadn’t. A kids’ soccer game was starting to set up there.

The ad seemed to have disappeared from Facebook, and a reverse image search turned up a nearly identical flyer for a legitimate-seeming farmers market

in Ohio. The “organizer” wasn’t returning calls. LaBonte had been scammed.

“There I was with 128 loaves of sourdough bread,” said LaBonte, who also made dozens of other types of loaves and 12 dozen cookies for the nonexistent event. She was discouraged. “I didn’t know what to do except donate them.”

That’s when family friend Zach Untiedt got involved. He’d been planning to attend the South Burlington market with his wife

“When people around here heard what happened, they were like, ‘What can I do to make you feel better?’ and ‘I’ll take five loaves,’” Untiedt said. “I loved seeing the community step up.”

Untiedt also told LaBonte’s story to Michelle Eddleman McCormick, who manages the Marshfield Village Store just two doors down from his house. McCormick sprang into action, too. She helped move the bread sale to her parking

She felt a sense of outrage on behalf of LaBonte, who had invested hundreds of dollars in baking supplies and many hours of work to create her goods for the market.

“She wasn’t out here looking for sympathy, but I feel empathy for people who get scammed,” McCormick said. “I’m a small business, but they’re a really small business.”

The bread sale was a success; passersby bought almost all of LaBonte’s stock. When the family headed back to Richford later that day, McCormick bought the remaining bread and started giving it away to people who she thought might need it. That evening, she handed two loaves to a pair of customers who stopped in to buy milk, instructing them to deliver them to the town’s 93-year-old retired fire chief.

McCormick purchased the Marshfield Village Store as part of a worker-owned cooperative two years ago, and she’s quickly made a name for herself in town as a business owner who wants to bring the community together. The store, which has a deli, caters many local events and often donates goods and services. During the July flooding, it served as a clearinghouse for information and supplies, and even sheltered people whose homes had been flooded. McCormick is skilled at problem solving in a crisis.

“She’s new to the community, but she’s a very valued member,” Untiedt said. “She wants everyone to grow.”

LaBonte came away from the pop-up bread sale with about half of the money she’d hoped to net from the South Burlington market, roughly $100 more than she’d spent on ingredients.

She said she’s undeterred by the scam. The Facebook ad ran in a group called Vermont Vendor Fairs/Events Planning, which frequently posts advice on ways vendors can vet advertisements before committing. Page administrator Heather Buczkowski of Swanton said she questions prospective members closely, but a few scammers slip through. She recommends that vendors dig into the online profile of fair organizers and talk to them directly if they can.

“I’ve noticed more people doing their own sleuthing before they send money,” she said.

and kids to support the LaBontes. Hearing that the scam had left the couple with a carload of perishable goods, Untiedt invited the LaBontes to his home, which sits by busy Route 2 in Marshfield village. He and his wife promoted a pop-up baked goods sale on social media and then set up a table to display the bread in their living room. Soon, the four friends were fielding visits from people who wanted to help.

lot, repurposing one of the tents that had sheltered relief supplies and workers for weeks after flooding devastated the town in July.

McCormick said she knows how hard it is for her friends and neighbors to make a living in rural Vermont. She’s feeling that hardship herself at the moment. Short on staff, she has to get up at 4:30 a.m. to open the store.

LaBonte said she did just that and talked to the woman who claimed to be the organizer: “She sounded normal.” Seven Days reached out to the woman using contact information in her Facebook ad and got no reply.

LaBonte is forging ahead with her baking, a skill she learned young, in her grandmother’s kitchen. And she’s grateful to Untiedt and McCormick for their crucial intervention.

“Bringing all the bread back home would have felt like a defeat,” she said. ➆

WHEN PEOPLE AROUND HERE HEARD WHAT HAPPENED, THEY WERE LIKE, “WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE YOU FEEL BETTER?” AND “I’LL TAKE FIVE LOAVES.” ZACH UNTIEDT

Nicole LaBonte and her daughter, Anna

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FEEDback

ROAD WORRIERS

We got lots of feedback — mostly in one concentrated, possibly coordinated burst — about our August 23 “Ask the Reverend” column, in which the Rev responded to a letter signed “Self-Righteous Cyclist.” Readers questioned the intention and authenticity of the query, which, although playfully sarcastic, was real indeed. It was sent anonymously, though, as all questions for the Rev typically are. We thought her advice was sound and fair — and still do! The exchange was headlined: “I Think I’m a Great Cyclist, but Drivers Don’t Think So.”

I was not at all surprised by the status quo positions in “Ask the Rev.” I personally know many boomers and often hear such arguments. I do hope, however, that after perusing online reactions on separate forums wherein motorist after motorist wishes violence upon a person who dares to take up space in the public right-ofway, the Reverend reconsiders her biases and the actual source of our ever-present tra c dangers. It’s cars, of course. More specifically, cars driven by people with the attitude that their right to not be inconvenienced by other road users is more sacred than the lives of their neighbors and fellow humans.

The Reverend’s unfortunate decision to blame bicyclists for the violence inflicted upon them only aggravates such attitudes and makes our streets even less safe than they were yesterday.

Ryan ornton BURLINGTON

I find it hard to believe that any 25-year-old who was actually a cyclist would describe himself as a “Self-Righteous Cyclist” and his behavior as “having fun, flouting rules and benefiting from it.” This tone struck me more as trolling from a frustrated motorist looking for validation.

All that aside, the issue of whether cyclists should obey the rules of the road is far more nuanced than stated in the column. In many states, Vermont included, cyclists actually do not have the same legal obligations on the road as cars do. They are entitled to ride two abreast, for example, and cross on pedestrian signals instead of green lights.

The driving factor behind these reforms is that, fundamentally, bicycles are not cars. They do not kill 40,000 Americans per year. They do not cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. They do not degrade local air quality. Public policy — and the public itself — should not treat the two modes as equivalent.

I have been physically threatened by drivers when riding my bike. Neighbors on Facebook have gleefully wished for some bike riders to be killed by drivers for the crime of “not following the rules.”

The danger to the public is from drivers, not cyclists. I am, quite frankly, sick of hearing arguments to the contrary.

Colin Larsen BURLINGTON

The Reverend’s words about cyclists “zipping around town on a bicycle and ignoring rules” ring as tone-deaf and misinformed, particularly in the wake of several cyclist and pedestrian deaths at the hands of drivers in South Burlington, Shelburne and Milton in the past year.

Almost everywhere, infrastructure in this county and state is designed to prioritize automobile tra c flow above the safe and comfortable movement of people who don’t want to drive or can’t a ord a car. Cyclists take their lives into their hands when they ride in these conditions, and it is drivers breaking the rules who put them in danger.

There is no mention of or advocacy for proven, effective infrastructure and legal changes, including protected bike lanes, separated bike paths or the Idaho stop. Instead, the Reverend suggests that any cyclist who is murdered by a driver probably had it coming (“How do you think you’re going to feel if a motorist hits you — likely due to your reckless ways?”).

Remember, cyclists are people trying to get around, just like drivers, and for every driver o the road and on a bike, there’s one less car clogging you up in a tra c jam.

Jake Twarog HINESBURG

I find it perplexing that the same Reverend who has publicly condoned MDMA usage and sex work solicitation decided to draw the line at ... riding a bike? Bike safety and bike etiquette are important topics of conversation with implications for thousands of Vermonters who live without a private automobile at their disposal.

The Reverend’s suggestions to “slow down” and “follow the rules” are patronizing and ring hollow when the rules in question unambiguously prioritize vehicle tra c while barely accommodating other

road and sidewalk users. I wonder how often the Reverend — and the people crowing on Facebook about the Reverend’s response — use our roads outside the safety of a 6,000-pound GMC Suburban. Just this year, we’ve had pedestrians killed by car drivers in Milton and Shelburne and a cyclist killed by a car driver in South Burlington. Cyclists need protection, not admonition.

If the Reverend was suddenly unable to express support for “illegal” activities like jaywalking or rolling a stop sign, she could have at least acknowledged the injustice that exists in our traffic laws or suggested legal remedies, like reforming our automobile-centric laws to decriminalize human movement. Getting the state to adopt the Idaho stop or acknowledge pedestrian rightof-way in unsignalized crossings are sorely needed steps toward pedestrian and cyclist safety in our state and could benefit from some good press!

A little research and empathy on the Reverend’s part could have helped provide a useful response instead of fanning the flames of weird online anti-cyclist sentiment.

Marty Gillies BURLINGTON

The tiniest bit of scrutiny should reveal the “Ask the Rev” letter was written entirely in bad faith to engage with so-called “dangerous cyclist” stereotypes. I am confused as to why you chose to engage with it. Did you not realize that the letter was penned to make people taking alternative transportation methods sound bad? Or did you share the writer’s prejudice and want to partake?

Here’s the thing: People who ride bikes are seriously vulnerable. Two days after your column was published, someone riding across the Winooski bridge on their bike was struck by a motorist and then on the pavement while the driver sped off. These kinds of collisions are happening all the time, and no one gets punished!

My work in part involves pleading with drivers, the state, city planners, etc. to slow down and stop threatening bike riders. This column seriously undermines the progress that’s possible in that realm.

Wylie Dulmage BURLINGTON

I was disappointed by the Reverend’s response to “Self-Righteous Cyclist,” who resonated with me entirely. The behavior the cyclist described is reasonable, not reckless. What isn’t reasonable, and which the Reverend reinforced in their caustic response, is our runaway car culture that harms cyclists, pedestrians and motorists alike.

Saying that the cyclist “[doesn’t] really care much about others” is misguided and frankly self-righteous. Their mode of transportation contributes in myriad ways to the health of their community and environment, and they have to constantly mitigate profound risks: The amount of carelessness I encounter in car drivers every day is staggering, especially when you consider the thousands of pounds of destruction at their distracted, often texting fingertips. Maneuvers the cyclist described, like rolling a clear stop sign, are actually much safer because they mean you aren’t interacting with a car for the same space at the same moment.

I have often enjoyed the empathy and reflection that the Reverend brings to her responses and wish that her admonishment had been directed not at a righteous bike commuter but at the dearth of people-oriented infrastructure that forces so many people to drive and makes life more dangerous for all of us.

Wes Dunn WINOOSKI

I applaud the Reverend’s response to the Self-Righteous Cyclist. I am both a runner and a cyclist, and I am very aware of and practice the rules of the road. I have so often said cyclists are very quick to point a finger — sometimes middle! — at motorists who do not give them the courtesy that they believe they deserve while, at the same time, breaking every rule that cyclists are supposed to live and ride by.

Thank you for this and for “Ask the Rev” each week. It is always my first read.

Steve Salls BURLINGTON

© SARAROOM DREAMSTIME

lifelines

OBITUARIES

Karen Kohler

MARCH 9, 1955SEPTEMBER 15, 2023

SHELBURNE, VT.

Karen Kohler, age 68, of Shelburne, Vt., died peacefully at the University of Vermont Medical Center on September 15, 2023, after a yearlong battle with cancer.

Without a doubt, she had a kind and gentle soul. She is in God’s caring hands now and one of His special angels. We believe that her kind and loving spirit will be looking over her family and friends.

Sweetie, we will miss you greatly. May you rest in peace.

e final viewing will be held at Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, VT, on Wednesday, September 20, 5 to 7 p.m. e funeral mass will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 72 Church St., Shelburne, VT, on

ursday, September 21, noon to 1 p.m. e family asks that you join them for a small, informal reception in the church hall after the interment ceremonies at the Shelburne Cemetery.

Karen was born on March 9, 1955, in Boston, to the late Raymond and Lillian Haskell. She graduated from Vestal High School in Vestal, N.Y., in 1973. She went on to earn a degree as a medical office assistant

Lori A. Carron

NOVEMBER 2, 1966SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

HINESBURG, VT.

Lori A. Carron passed away on September 1, 2023, at the University of Vermont’s McClure Miller Respite House. She fought a courageous four-year battle with cancer. Born in Massachusetts, she spent most of her life in Vermont, attending Burlington schools and graduating from Burlington High School. She became a home care provider for HMH, since she enjoyed helping the less fortunate.

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS

medical colleagues — nurses, doctors and management. As a result, she made many lifelong friends along the way.

In 1979, she married John Kohler at St. Vincent De Paul Blessed Sacrament Church in Vestal, N.Y. ey were married for 44 years, living in Endwell, N.Y., until moving to Shelburne, Vt., in 1993.

A message from her sisters:

Stanley G. Carlson

JUNE 17, 1958-SEPTEMBER 4, 2023

from Broome Community College in Binghamton, N.Y. After several years working in that field, she went back to BCC to earn her degree as a registered nurse in 1979. She worked in that profession across various disciplines for over 43 years, both in New York and Vermont, until officially retiring from the UVM Medical Center rehab unit in November 2021.

Anyone who met Karen over the years was attracted to her contagious smile, fun nature, and enthusiastic party-planner spirit for family and friends. She loved working in her home gardens, enjoyed cooking and baking, was always willing to help and support her family and friends, and loved playing with and going on fun adventures with her grandchildren. She was dedicated to helping countless patients through their healing process and was devoted to her

She is survived by her husband, John, of Shelburne, Vt.; daughter Melissa Kohler of Waterbury, Vt.; son Ben Kohler of Auburndale, Mass. (daughter-in-law Helen, grandson Alex and granddaughter Ellie); son Jonathan of Essex Junction, Vt. (daughter-in-law Kassie, grandson Grant and granddaughter Avery); and her blocky-headed English yellow Lab, Jake.

She is also survived by sister Deb Seaman and her husband, Mike Seaman, of New Tazewell, Tenn.; sister Cindy Simone and her husband, Dennis, of Monroe, N.Y.; sister Lisa Distin and her husband, Mike, of Binghamton, N.Y.; sisterin-heart and lifetime friend Joyce Oziemina and her husband, Tom, of Apalachin, N.Y.; cousins Josephine DeSalvatore and Lori Ingliss, both of the Boston area; niece Jessica White and her husband, Lt. Col. Mac White, of Hampstead, N.C.; and aunt Linda Pantridge of Gulfport, Fla. She is predeceased by her nephew David Seaman of Kentucky.

“Dear sister, we thank you so much for the many years of friendship, celebration and adventures that you shared with us — the personal gifts you left on our beds, the wonderful meals, the hikes, the shopping, and your homemade jams and breads. You showed us your love in so many ways. You always had such a calming influence on the situations and people you encountered in life. Knowing you was its own blessing. God and His angels have now received you into heaven with the knowledge that you lived a life of love, compassion and forgiveness. We will all miss you dearly.”

Karen was a longtime supporter of the Vermont Marine Corps League’s Toys for Kids program, which collects and distributes new toys to needy children during the Christmas season.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a taxdeductible donation in her name to Toys for Kids, PO Box 4092, Burlington, VT 05406, or go directly to the Toys for Kids website (toysforkidsvt. com), hit the donate tab and donate via PayPal.

Arrangements are in care of Ready Funeral and Cremation Services. To send online condolences, please visit readyfuneral.com.

BURLINGTON, VT.

It is with deep sadness that the family of Stan Carlson announces his unexpected passing at home on Monday, September 4, 2023, at the age of 65. He was born in Burlington, Vt., to Harold N. Carlson and Marjorie S. Carlson.

Stan attended Burlington schools and enjoyed a childhood filled with family activities, many focused on a love of the outdoors, including skiing in winter and sailing on the family sailboat on Lake Champlain in the summer. A TV camera crew captured Stan at the age of 3, happily climbing the practice slope at Stowe and deftly snowplowing down. His athleticism continued as a teen with his participation in the Cochran ski racing program and excelling at the sport of judo, demonstrating strength, agility and mental focus.

Lori is survived by her husband, Phillip Cromer, and her Cromer in-laws, Chuck, Marjorie and Liz. Lori and

Phil lived in Hinesburg with their beloved dog and cats. Lori is also survived by her mother, Patricia Wright Dutchburn, and stepfather, Wayne Dutchburn; her surviving brother, Patrick Carron, and his wife, Jan; and her beloved nieces: Desiree Carron, her husband, Clay Ellis, and their daughter, Zara; Courtney Santor and her daughter, Kylee Cole; and Amber (Tanner) Fosher and their daughter, Nova. She is also survived by her many Wright aunts, uncles and cousins. She was especially close to Barbara Forziati and Elizabeth Palmer.

Lori was preceded in death by an infant brother; her sister, Stephanie Carron; brother David Dutchburn; her grandparents; and her father, Arthur Carron.

A funeral mass will be offered on September 30, 2023, at St. Mark Catholic Church on North Avenue in Burlington, Vt., with a reception following at St. Jude Catholic Church in Hinesburg. Interment will be later at the convenience of the family. Donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are by Corbin and Palmer of Essex Junction, Vt.

An enterprising person, Stan kept busy in his early career operating his own business cleaning airplanes at the Burlington International Airport for many years before moving on to construction work and being part of the groundskeeping crew at the University of Vermont. Residing in Burlington, he loved the local music scene and enjoyed daily long walks on the hills and by the lake. He made a hobby of teaching himself to play acoustic guitar with considerable skill and carried his harmonica with him for impromptu jam sessions with friends. Despite increasingly debilitating back pain over the years, Stan maintained a positive outlook on life, was concerned about the welfare of others and reached out to help friends in need.

Stan leaves his brother Dana C. Carlson (Lynda Waltien) of Shelburne; sister Jean Carlson Masseau (Vincent) of Hinesburg; niece Anna McCloy (Bill) of Rutland and their children, Elsa and Alice; nephews Ben Carlson of Essex Junction, Colin Masseau of Essex, and Evan Masseau (Lucy Weaver) of North Ferrisburgh and their children, Henry and Lila; former sister-in-law Maura O’Brien; cousins; and a network of friends.

e world has lost a kind, generous soul who brought joy and humor to those around him. He was a lovable, funloving rascal and will be dearly missed. ose wishing to honor Stan’s giving spirit are encouraged to donate in his name to COTS Burlington (cotsonline.org) or Burlington’s Community Health Centers. Messages to the family may be left on the Elmwood-Meunier Funeral Home website. e family will gather privately to honor Stan’s life at a later date.

lifelines

IN MEMORIAM

OBITUARIES

Joan Lear Wulfson

JUNE 14, 1931-SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

SHELBURNE, VT.

Stephanie Miner

1929-2023

Stephanie passed away recently. Please join the Friends of the Horticultural Farm on Saturday, September 23, at the UVM Horticulture Research Center, 65 Green Mountain Dr., South Burlington, for a celebration of Stephanie’s life from 2 to 4 p.m. Bring your memories and stories of Stephanie to share. Please RSVP attendance to info@friendsofthehortfarm. org.

Joan Lear Wulfson passed peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her family, on September 14, 2023. Joan was born to the late Edwin Lear and Frieda Reichel Lear on June 14, 1931, in Elizabeth, N.J. She graduated from Battin High School and went on to graduate from Trenton State Teachers College, where she studied to become a physical education teacher. Joan was interested in athletics from a young age. She first played tennis in high school, as well as basketball and volleyball. In her phys ed teacher training, she would learn numerous other sports. Tennis would continue to play a prominent role in her life.

Joan taught phys ed at Westfield High School for three years and was working there when she met Jay Wulfson. In 1955, they were married

Cecile Messier

JANUARY 22, 1932SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

SHELBURNE, VT.

In loving memory of Kristen Laure Charlebois

1978-1995

Dear Kristy,

We so wish you were here to celebrate your day. It has been 28 years since your passing, but we keep your memory alive in our thoughts and prayers. We will always cherish and miss you so much.

Our love forever, Mom, Dad, Kate and Randy

Cecile Messier peacefully passed away on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the McClure Miller Respite House, surrounded by family. She was born in Winooski, Vt., to Regis and Dorilda Dufresne.

Cecile found the love of her life, Marcel Messier, in Burlington, Vt. After courting for several years, they married in 1963, began a family and spent the next 54 years showing what true love is. Cecile worked alongside her husband, Marcel’s, certified public accountant firm and owned an apartment complex on College

in Elizabeth, N.J. While living in East Brunswick, N.J., they started a family and soon had four children: David, Lisa, Todd and Gary. In November 1963, they packed the family up for the big move to Burlington, Vt., where she helped Jay start the Vermont Railway from the remnants of the Rutland Railroad. ere was a lot of work to be done, and Joan gracefully handled multitasking before it was a thing. She excelled at organization. As the kids grew older, she was able to apply those skills as a volunteer and board member for a number of organizations, including the Baird Children’s Center. After she and Jay divorced in 1974, Joan took on the role of office manager at Christ Church Presbyterian and didn’t relinquish it for 25 years.

In 1975, Joan met John Q. Caswell, and their mutual love of tennis became the backdrop for a loving partnership that lasted until

his death in 1998. John’s sons Craig and Chris were devoted to her and continuously checked in on Joan and remained close for the next 25 years.

Over the years of living in and around Burlington, Joan made many special friendships. She devoted her energy and organizational talents to many causes. Her work organizing the state’s amateur tennis leagues may be what connected her most to the Vermont community. She was the USTA League Coordinator for Vermont for over 25 years. Her outstanding work in Vermont was recognized, and she was asked to join the board of USTA New England, where she served for many years.

Joan’s dear friends and travel partners Mary Selby and Diane Meyer traveled with her to New York, France, England and Australia to attend each of the tennis Grand Slam tournaments.

After snowbirding in St. Petersburg, Fla., for many years starting in the ’90s, Joan moved full time to St. Pete. As would be expected, she spent time there as president of the Women’s Tennis Association of Isla Del Sol Yacht and Tennis Club.

In 2019, the draw of her grandchildren and children outweighed

her distaste for cold weather, and she moved back north to Shelburne, Vt. Her family was so happy to have her close by for her last years.

Joan is survived by her sister Carol Reed of Belvidere, N.J.; sons David (Chrissy) of Shelburne, Todd of Burlington and Gary (Danielle) of Bristol; grandchildren Christy, Jenna, Nicole, Christopher, Angela, Jessica, Alexandra, Samantha, Anna, Jacob and Sierra; and great-grandchildren Lily, Evelyn, Grayson, Sawyer and Steele. She was predeceased by her daughter, Lisa. Joan had some special caregivers over the last few years, including Mary Joy “MJ” Patchett, whom she thought of as a dear friend, and her granddaughter Angela Navin, who grew very close while helping during Joan’s final year in Florida.

A gathering in her honor will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made locally to Kids on the Ball, 19 Lindenwood Dr., South Burlington, VT 05403. Joan’s legacy of love for her family, passion for tennis and dedication to her community will be cherished and remembered always. Arrangements are in the care of Champlain Cremation Service. To send online condolences to her family, please visit vtfuneralhomes.com.

Street for 35 years. Cecile and Marcel moved to Shelburne in 1988.

Family time was very important and always a priority. She loved outdoor activities, including camping, gardening, walking and hiking. She enjoyed travel and vacationed often in Maine, New Hampshire and Québec City. She was a talented pianist who attended the Vermont Music Conservatory.

Cecile was a woman of Christian faith and an active member of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Shelburne.

Cecile was preceded in death by her loving husband, Marcel; her parents, Regis and Dorilda;

her sisters, Maryann Bergeron and Sister Theresa Dufresne of the Sisters of Providence; and her brother, Paul Dufresne.

She is survived by her son David Messier and his wife, Cynthia, of Williston; her daughter, Marie Friedman, and her husband, Scott, of Essex Junction; her son Donald Messier and his wife, Caroline, of Essex Junction; her grandchildren, Jason Friedman (and wife Rachel), Colleen Beahm (and husband Chris), Evan, Emilee, and Clayton; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 30, 2023, 11 a.m., at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Shelburne, Vt. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the McClure Miller Respite House. Arrangements are in care of Ready Funeral and Cremation Services. To send online condolences, please visit readyfuneral.com.

Robert Slayton

1947-2023

Please join us to celebrate the life of Robert Slayton on Saturday, September 23, 2 p.m., at Catalyst Church, 100 Raceway Rd., Jericho, VT.

Margaret Nichols

1941-2023

WESTFORD, VT.

Margaret “Peg/Peggy” Parker Nichols passed away peacefully at her Westford home with family by her side, after a long illness. Born on October 9, 1941, to David Preston Parker Jr. and Margaret Rubottom Parker in Bellville, Ill., Peg and her family also lived in Kirkwood, Mo.; London, England; and Pleasantville, N.Y. Although she moved frequently in her youth, she had strong family ties in rural Oklahoma, where she enjoyed visiting grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Peg graduated from the University of Vermont in 1963 with a degree in sociology, then married Will Nichols and settled in Westford, Vt., where she lived for 59 years. During her life, Peg was a vital part of the Westford and Milton communities. After teaching in Montpelier for a year, she comanaged the family farm with Will, sugaring, haying and caring for cattle while raising four children. Peg became an integral part of the Westford school system, including many years as a respected member and chair of the Westford School Board. Over the years, Peg became increasingly involved in running L.D. Oliver Seed in Milton, Depot Home and Garden in Essex Junction, and Depot Farm Supply in Leicester. By the time she retired at age 76, Peg was not only an accomplished business owner but was also known and loved by customers and employees as a knowledgeable and caring resource and mentor. After her retirement, Peg volunteered at the Respite House, supported numerous charities, and stayed active in the lives of her children and

grandchildren through frequent calls, visits, card games, family trips to Maine, muddy drives in her side-by-side, collaboration on projects, learning piano together, talking through important issues and developing shared interests.

Peg was a strong woman with an exceptionally sharp and organizational mind who was also a pillar of love and support in her family. She balanced practicality with empathy and was known for her frank yet loving way of “telling it like it is.” Peg was loyal to those she loved but also extended grace and kindness to anyone she met. She was steadfast in her principles while continually updating and challenging her own ideas. She showed a deep interest in topics great and small that mattered to those around her and was truly a lifelong learner and teacher. Peg will be deeply missed but remains part of the many lives she touched.

Peg was predeceased by her parents; her husband, William; her sister, Mary Edwina “Edie” Furman; her brother, David Parker; and her sister-in-law, Sarah Gruenig. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Sharon and Steve Koller, Sue and Tom Thibault, Nick and Beth Nichols, and Jeff and Julia Nichols; 10 grandchildren and their partners; a great-grandchild; a brother-inlaw; and three nephews and their families.

At Peg’s request, there will be a private family interment at the Nichols family plot in Brooklin, Maine. The family welcomes messages of condolence and remembrances at pegnichols.net. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory can be made to UVM Home Health & Hospice or another charity.

Twilight Hour

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com

With the tip of her palette knife, Katie Runde picked up dabs of paint from her palette and dropped each into the center. She blended them, moving the knife in quick, tight circles. She turned the paint over, mixed it some more and held a dollop in front of her model’s face to gauge the match.

“Nope.” She added colors, mixed, scraped and scrutinized again.

Still no.

“Oh, God,” she whispered. “Why is it so hard?”

First there was the matter of a smile. Runde couldn’t produce a portrait of Alexander Twilight wearing the scowl she saw in the photo she used as a guide — the only image of him known to exist. True, the 19th-century Brownington minister and school headmaster had been strong-willed and strict. He built a four-story granite dormitory after school trustees said no. He expected students to study 10 hours a day and disciplined boys with a leather strap, but he was also known to amuse them with his sly, satirical humor. One would later recall his “mirth-provoking face, the jestloving propensity, the perennial fun.”

Runde wanted her portrait of Twilight, which was headed for the Vermont Statehouse, to convey that warmth. She had to figure out how a smile would change the rest of his face, his eyes, his forehead.

Now she mixed his skin colors. Accuracy was paramount but elusive. The tiny daguerreotype was black and white, and former students had described Twilight only as “bronzed” and “swarthy.” Twilight today is celebrated as the first person of African descent to graduate from an American college, Middlebury, in 1823, and the first Black American to be elected

to a state legislature. But the accomplishments are complicated by the fact that most Vermonters at the time perceived Twilight to be white.

Runde’s skin-tone model was Demetrius Borge, a 2016 Middlebury College grad, filmmaker and photographer who

shot as the artist worked. For hours, he documented her process, pausing to stand in front of her as she parsed his face into titanium white, yellow ochre, cadmium red, burnt umber, cobalt blue, black.

In the footage shot by Borge, Runde studied another hue. “It needs to be

19th-century educator Alexander Twilight broke racial barriers, but only long after his death. It’s complicated.

And to think that there are usually paint colors called “flesh tone.”

KATIE RUNDE

Portrait artist Katie Runde checking skin-tone colors against model Demetrius Borge

Katie Runde

Daguerreotype of Alexander Twilight

COURTESY OF DEMETRIUS BORGE

COURTESY OF DEMETRIUS BORGE

lighter, now that I’ve made it darker,” she said. She added color, circled, scraped and held it up again. “Now it’s too light.”

“And to think,” she said, “that there are usually paint colors called ‘flesh tone.’”

“Lies,” Borge said.

Runde and Borge were not alone in wrestling with the essence of Alexander Lucius Twilight, the trailblazing Middlebury graduate and Vermont legislator, who is receiving a burst of appreciation across the state. Born in Bradford in 1795 and raised in Corinth, Twilight thrived in an overwhelmingly white world, apparently without drawing attention to the fact that at least one of his parents was half Black.

Yet it is Twilight’s Black identity that in modern times has put his name on a campus building and research program at Middlebury College and his portrait in the Statehouse last year — the only one depicting a person of color. In 2020, Vermont legislators declared his 225th birthday Alexander Twilight Day. Earlier this year, St. Johnsbury artist Bill Tulp released a graphic biography of Twilight. And just last month, the Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village in Brownington, headquarters of the Orleans County Historical Society, designated Twilight as its main draw.

While Vermont confronts past racism by erasing from public buildings the names of state figures associated with eugenics, it reckons with Twilight by highlighting him and seeking lessons in his story. The narrative comes with untidy complexities and irony — not the least of which is Middlebury’s energetic embrace of a man it likely never would have admitted if it had known who he really was.

Middlebury graduated the first African American student “by accident,” said Daniel Silva, an associate professor and past director of Black studies at the college. Indeed, 11 years after Twilight graduated, the college refused admission to Andrew Harris, who would go on to become the first Black student to graduate from the University of Vermont, in 1838. In 1845, Middlebury recruited Rutland resident Martin Freeman, but it did so with the intention of educating him so that Freeman could help develop a colony for free Black people on the west coast of Africa.

“What does that whole complicated, messy narrative also say about that relationship between institutions of higher education and racial exclusion, whether it’s in the context of the 1820s, when [Twilight] was admitted, or it’s in the context of the 2020s, where we still have huge issues of racial exclusion on college campuses and in society more broadly?” Silva asked.

That’s one of the big questions the college hopes to tackle this week during its annual Clifford Symposium, which starts on Thursday, September 21. Twilight is the

focus of the three-day symposium, which will commemorate his 228th birthday and the bicentennial of his 1823 graduation — and use his story as a springboard to explore racial inequities still roiling American society.

“Should Twilight’s blackness matter to us today?” symposium co-organizer Bill Hart asked in an essay published in Vermont Almanac. Hart, a professor emeritus of history at Middlebury, said the matter of Twilight’s racial ambiguity offers an opportunity to consider race and racial identity in a more sophisticated, nuanced way.

Indentured Farmhand to Middlebury Grad

No one knows how Twilight identified himself racially. Documentation of his life is spare. Hart, who is writing Twilight’s biography, believes that Twilight was most likely one-quarter Black. Hart has found no evidence that anyone who interacted with Twilight throughout his college and professional lives considered him Black.

A review of Twilight’s life, based on interviews with Hart and research by several other experts, does not indicate that race played an outward role in it.

His father, Ichabod Twilight, was born in Boston in 1765 to a Black father and, it is believed, a white mother. Probably a free man, he enlisted in the Continental Army toward the end of the Revolutionary War.

Twilight’s mother, Mary, was either white or biracial. The couple moved to Vermont in 1793, and Alexander, the third of their six children, was born on September 23, 1795.

The family moved about three years later to Corinth, where Ichabod bought 50 acres and farmed. When Alexander was about 8 years old, he was indentured to William Bowen, a neighboring white farmer, in an arrangement then common for families of modest means, including white ones. While living with the Bowens, he learned to read and write and do math. He completed his indentureship a year early, at age 20, then enrolled at Orange County Grammar School in Randolph, where over the next six years he would complete secondary school and the first two years of college coursework.

The idea to apply to Middlebury College in 1821 may have come from the school’s president, reverend Joshua Bates, whom Twilight likely met in Corinth at the ordination of Twilight’s pastor. Twilight enrolled that year as a junior at age 26. His courses included surveying and navigation, natural philosophy, astronomy, and Greek literature. Drawn to natural theology, the doctrine that says God’s divine truths are discoverable in nature, he checked out William Paley’s book on the topic from the college library 10 times.

After graduating in a class of 18, Twilight took a teaching job in Peru, N.Y., where he met Mercy Ladd Merrill, a white woman about 10 years younger. They married in 1826. Twilight continued

to study theology and was licensed to preach by the Champlain Presbytery in Plattsburgh in 1827.

The couple moved to Vergennes the next year. Twilight taught school and preached on alternating Sundays in Ferrisburgh and Waltham, walking to both — three miles to Ferrisburgh, four miles to Waltham.

In 1829, the couple moved to Brownington, the hilltop town in Orleans County where Twilight would live for 24 years and make his mark. Situated on the principal stage route between Montréal and Boston, it was a thriving town of 400 residents. Twilight arrived as preceptor of the Orleans County Grammar School and acting pastor of Brownington Congregational Church. His reputation as a charismatic and talented teacher spread, and boys and girls — all white, mostly in their teens and early twenties — came from Vermont and Québec to attend the two-story, white-clapboard school. The curriculum included Latin, Greek, geology, chemistry and astronomy. Enrollment climbed as high as 140.

Convinced that students could learn more if they lived on-site — and interested in another source of revenue — Twilight set out to build a dormitory, but school trustees, wary of acquiring debt and depriving townspeople of the income they received by boarding students, rejected the proposal. So Twilight forged ahead without them or their financial backing.

Bill Hart outside Twilight Hall at Middlebury College

According to legend, he built the dormitory alone with the help of an ox and an iron pry bar. Historians believe he rounded up financial and physical help to harvest granite from nearby fields and build the four-story dormitory. He patterned it after Painter Hall, one of two buildings that comprised Middlebury College when he attended, and which still stands.

Twilight named the dorm Athenian Hall, though it became better known as the Stone House.

About the same time, residents in neighboring Craftsbury asked the state for the second time to recognize their school. The bill, if passed, would divide state funds between the two schools. Twilight took a leave from his academy and ran for the state legislature with the sole purpose of opposing the move. He won election to the Vermont House in 1836 but lost his bid to deny Craftsbury. He left the Statehouse after a single term to return to his school, which became known as Brownington Academy.

The national economic collapse known as the Panic of 1837 forced Twilight, now deep in debt, to mortgage his home and the school dormitory. He managed to keep tuition steady and enrollment at 85 in 1839, but tensions between Twilight and school officials continued to rise. Church officers, too, were growing weary of Twilight. They had heard complaints about his eclectic preaching over the years and were irritated that he didn’t contribute more money to the church. School trustees began searching for his replacement, and Twilight left. In 1847, he and Mercy moved to Québec, where he taught and ran schools for the next five years. Brownington Academy faltered, and trustees invited Twilight to come back in 1852. Welcomed with a celebration in Athenian Hall, Twilight declared, “This is the home of my choice and here with the blessing of God I will devote myself to the interests of education.”

His time was short, however. In October 1855, a paralyzing stroke forced him to stop teaching. Twilight died on June 19, 1857, and the school closed for good two years later. Mercy ran Athenian Hall as a boardinghouse and tavern for a time, even though she had been a temperance advocate. She died in 1878. The couple, who had no children, are buried side by side in Brownington Congregational Church cemetery, within sight of Athenian Hall.

In 1917 or 1918, the Orleans County Historical Society, of which Twilight was a charter member, saved Athenian Hall from the wrecking ball and builders who saw in its mammoth stone blocks the makings of

bridge abutments. Old Stone House opened as a museum in 1925 and today anchors a historic district that’s on the National Register of Historic Places and the Vermont African American Heritage Trail.

If You Could ‘Pass,’ You Did

So how did a man who, by all accounts, was seen and treated as white during his lifetime become an African American icon more than a century after he died?

People speculated for years about Twilight’s race, said Hart, the biographer.

A brief 1919 memo from Middlebury president John Thomas to another college official refers to Twilight as a “negro” who did “notable work in connection with Vermont education.” It is unclear why they were discussing Twilight, though

Should Twilight’s blackness matter to us today?

BILL HART

found results for two years — 1800 and 1810 — in which census takers marked Twilight in the category “all other free persons, except Indians not taxed,” the designation for free Black people.

Hart speculates that Thomas was repeating what a college dean believed to be true.

Fast-forward to the mid-1940s: Thomas, by then a state representative, was party to a flurry of correspondence inquiring about whether Twilight was Black. The writers may have been seeking to establish whether Twilight had been the first African American legislator in Vermont, at a time when some news reports were lending that honor to William Anderson, a Black man who had recently been elected. One historian involved in the conversation was working with the state commission planning to erect a historic marker at the Old Stone House.

In 1974, Twilight “became Black,” in Hart’s words. That was when then-editor of the Middlebury College News Letter, Gregor Hileman, for reasons still unclear, combed through U.S. Census data and

Americans did not self-report their census information in those days. Hart suspects that in 1800, a census taker saw Twilight’s father, Ichabod, who likely had darker skin, and concluded that the family was Black. In 1810, Ichabod was not in the home and the census taker marked the household as white. However, Alexander was living with the white Bowen family at the time and was counted as Black.

In every census after that, Twilight was recorded as white, as were his siblings and their families.

Twilight didn’t “pass’’ as white, a term that implies he purposefully hid his ancestry, Hart said. Instead, he “was passed” by people who assumed he was white. Twilight “performed whiteness,” meaning he fulfilled white expectations of white identity, Hart said: “Here’s a man who’s racially ambiguous, college-educated, pastor, successful teacher, legislator. What Black person would be able to claim those achievements?”

It’s easy to understand why Twilight might have accepted his white assignment at a time when politics around race

Alexander Twilight House in Brownington

PHOTOS: STEVE LEGGE

in Vermont were full of contradictions. Although Vermont had abolished slavery in 1777 — the first colony to do so — it permitted enslavement of girls until age 18 and boys until 21. The law was weak, and slavery continued — including among adults — into the 19th century. Prominent Vermonters who enslaved people include Revolutionary War patriot Ethan Allen’s brother Levi and daughter Lucy Caroline Hitchcock; Supreme Court justice and state legislator Stephen Jacob; and North Bennington’s most prosperous citizen, Moses Sage. Vermont was the first state to establish an auxiliary of the American Colonization Society, formed to reduce the population of free Blacks in the country

of Discovering Black Vermont: African American Farmers in Hinesburgh, 17901890. “Slavery painted everybody of that color as inferior.”

During Twilight’s time, many white Americans saw race as intrinsic to character, Hart said. White was synonymous with freedom, independence and citizenship, while Black was equated with dependency, indolence and inferiority.

Interactions across racial lines, including marriage and informal unions, were not uncommon during the colonial period and early years of nationhood. But racebased stratification was readily visible in the workforce. Throughout the 19th century, Black Vermonters struggled to

by sending them to Liberia, the colony that the society, backed by federal dollars, would establish on the African coast.

The Vermont Anti-Slavery Society was formed in 1834, and a number of residents became active in helping enslaved people escape bondage. But Vermonters also protested abolition activists who came to speak in their towns. Samuel J. May of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society was attacked five times while touring Vermont in 1835. Abolitionists speaking in Orleans County were booed and pelted with rocks and eggs while Twilight lived there. Members of a group traveling with Frederick Douglass, the country’s bestknown abolitionist speaker, were greeted similarly in Middlebury in 1843.

Twilight appears to have made few comments about slavery. Although the abolitionist cause animated other New England clerics, historians have found only two Twilight sermons, delivered late in his career, in which he denounced slavery.

For Black people in Vermont at the time, freedom did not mean equality, said historian Elise Guyette, author

leave white households and menial jobs, Guyette said. In 1790 and 1800, 80 percent of Black Vermonters lived in white households, likely as domestic workers or farmhands. By the 1840s and 1850s, that figure was still at least 50 percent.

“If you were going to be discriminated against, it was going to affect your livelihood,” Guyette said. “And [if] you could pass [for white], you did.”

Twilight Today

In Brownington, the historical marker erected in 1948 and titled “Old Stone House” has been replaced by a new one titled “Alexander Twilight.” Museum trustees, charged with preserving and sharing the history of the entire county, have made Twilight the site’s primary focus.

“This is our North Star,” board member Carmen Jackson said.

Other entities, some far from Orleans County, also promote Twilight’s legacy. In Boston, the Alexander Twilight Academy

provides free year-round coursework to sixth graders in need, along with leadership training and mentors until they graduate from college. Even Chance the Rapper has paid respect: He teamed up with Box Tops for Education in 2020 to give cash to outstanding teachers through what is known as the Twilight Awards.

Some may question whether Middlebury College and the state of Vermont deserve the reflected glory of a man they didn’t know at the time was Black. In Middlebury’s favor, Hart points out that in 1804, 17 years before Twilight was admitted, the college awarded an honorary degree to Lemuel Haynes, a West Rutland minister who identified as Black. But then it would later refuse admittance to Andrew Harris, who went on to become UVM’s first Black graduate. When four Black men from Philadelphia asked to attend Middlebury in 1845, president Benjamin Labaree told trustees that enrolling all four at once would “create the impression that this is the College for the resort of colored students.” Then, in 1986, Middlebury named an academic building Twilight Hall.

It’s complicated.

Middlebury continues to use Twilight to examine its own history. Its Twilight Project, headed by Silva, has sponsored student research into the school’s treatment of marginalized communities. During the three-year term of the project, students have recorded the oral histories of athletes of color, documented experiences of students who have disabilities, and examined the life stories of people whose names appear on campus buildings, streets and landmarks.

The name Mead, under scrutiny before the project began, was stripped from the college chapel in 2021 because of the role its namesake, former Vermont governor John A. Mead, played to advance eugenics, the theory that abstract human qualities, such as intelligence and social behaviors, are inherited, and humans could be improved through selective breeding. Students have submitted other names to school administrators for review.

Students will present their research at this week’s symposium, which organizers say is dedicated to “critiquing, interrogating, and problematizing” the themes raised by Twilight’s life and times.

Hart hopes that people take away a deeper understanding of how and why we define race. “We need to understand that racial assignment is not something that’s essential,” he said. Rather, race is a socially manufactured and agreed-upon categorization that uses whiteness as the norm, he said. “By assigning racial categories to nonwhite people, we are preserving white privilege and … white supremacy.”

Twilight had Black ancestry, Hart said, but by assigning him Blackness today, “we are buying into this long tradition now of the ‘one-drop rule,’ that any one drop of nonwhite ancestry gives you that racial designation of that nonwhiteness.” He calls that rule “absurd” and points to Homer Plessy, the New Orleans man at the center of the 1896 landmark U.S. Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson that established the “separate but equal” doctrine central to Jim

Crow racial segregation. Although Plessy was seven-eighths white, he was arrested in an act of civil disobedience after refusing to leave a “whites-only” streetcar.

Always a nation of immigrants, the United States is becoming more racially diverse — and complex — by the day, with white people predicted to be in the minority in a few decades. “How are we then going to define race going forward?” Hart asked.

Some would look to Twilight, who operated a thriving school, built a landmark dormitory, and served as a minister and lawmaker. “This,” said Jackson, the museum board member, “is what can be accomplished when you’re not held back by other people’s expectations.” ➆

INFO

Clifford Symposium 2023: “Twilight at 200: Race and the Academy,” Thursday, September 21, through Saturday, September 23, at Middlebury College. middlebury.edu

Learn more about the Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village in Brownington at oldstonehousemuseum.org.

HATEFUL GRAFFITI MARS TWILIGHT HISTORIC SITE

Vermont State Police this week continued to investigate hate-filled graffiti that, on the second weekend of September, was spray-painted on the Prospect Hill observatory at the Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village. Meanwhile, supporters of the Brownington site, which includes the former home and school of Alexander Twilight, the trailblazing Black educator, have pledged a $5,000 reward for information that leads to a conviction.

Museum neighbors Ellen Harvey and Bob Murphy discovered the graffiti on September 10 while walking their dog on Prospect Hill. “We were horrified,” Harvey said. Words and images, including about five swastikas, targeting Jews, Black people and women had been sprayed on floors, posts and railings.

Harvey was part of a four-person crew that scrubbed the paint with bleach, paint thinner and wire brushes. The group used black paint to cover what it couldn’t remove. The tower reopened a couple of days later.

The Old Stone House Museum focuses on Twilight, the 19th-century headmaster, minister and legislator who is widely believed to be the first person of African descent to graduate from an American college, Middlebury, in 1823.

The original observatory was built in 1898 for William Barstow Strong, a student of Twilight’s who went on to become president of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. It has been rebuilt twice.

The museum, open from mid-May through mid-October, welcomes visitors to Prospect Hill and the observatory for no charge. From the top of the 25-foot tower, which is open year-round, one can see Canada, lakes Memphremagog and Willoughby, and New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

Popular for walks, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the hill has long been a hangout for young people.

Museum trustee Jane Greenwood said she keeps a can of black spray paint in her truck to blot out words that she finds painted on the tower several times each summer. Harvey and Murphy bring a bag to collect discarded beer cans.

Seeing “those hateful words” on this “soul-enriching” site was “just nauseating,” Harvey said. She and Murphy started the reward fund. The crime has sparked outrage, Harvey said, and already has prompted several people to open their checkbooks to say, “Not in my neighborhood.” ➆

Anyone with information can contact Vermont State Police at 334-8881, online at vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit or by texting VTIPS to 274637.

STEVE LEGGE CALEB KENNA

Athenian Hall, aka Old Stone House, in Brownington

Painter Hall at Middlebury College

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Road Scholars

In a classic Vermont mountain rally, winning takes precision and smarts, not speed

BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com

Picture a motorsport in which a 1953 Volkswagen Beetle can smoke a 2018 Porsche Boxster. But to do so, the VW Bug doesn’t need a driver who can deftly corner hairpin turns so much as a navigator who’s quick with a road map, a stopwatch and a calculator.

In this competition, finishing first can be a disadvantage, and speeding can get a team disqualified. In fact, sometimes a driver’s best maneuver is to wait at a stop sign for 10 seconds before moving on.

Welcome to the sport of road rally, where brainpower can beat horsepower and the fast often fall to the fastidious. And whatever you do, don’t call it a race.

This week, 20 teams from around North America are coming to Vermont to compete in the 2023 Great American Mountain Rally Revival. The three-day, 400-mile competition takes place entirely on open public roads throughout the state, starting and ending each day at Bolton Valley Resort.

While the “rally” in the name may evoke images of muddy, turbocharged Subarus sailing through the air — that’s a di erent motorsport, called rallying — spectators at this event shouldn’t expect to hear engines revving or tires chirping. Competitors’ cars, many of them classics from the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, only drive between 25 and 42 miles per hour and are never supposed to exceed posted speed limits. Teams meticulously follow driving instructions that take them through farmlands, dirt roads and steep mountain passes. Their goal is to arrive neither early nor late, but exactly on time.

“This is about precision driving,” said Gary Hamilton, cofounder and rally master of the Great American Mountain Rally Revival. Except for one participant this year who used to drive a taxi, competitors generally aren’t professional drivers, Hamilton noted, but “people who have cool vintage cars who don’t want to just park them in a field and do a show. They want to drive these cars.”

Here’s how the rally works: Months in advance, organizers map out and time each day’s route with

interesting and challenging roads, then create di erent types of instructions for teams to follow, which are given to competitors shortly before the rally starts each morning. Teams leave one minute apart at precisely recorded times.

Each team consists of a driver and a navigator, the latter of whom reads and interprets the instructions for the driver throughout the day. Drivers may be directed to, say, follow Route 2 for 10 miles at 32 miles per hour, then reduce the speed to 27 miles per hour before turning left onto Lime Kiln Road. Sometimes the instructions are written out; other times they’re just a map or illustration with arrows, or a combination of the two.

At locations unknown to the competitors beforehand, the cars will pass a checkpoint, where the timed portion of the rally, called a regularity, begins. During each regularity, the teams must complete this interval of the trip in as close to a predetermined time as possible.

Throughout the day, a team will hit eight to 15 such regularities, whose times are automatically recorded with a GPS-enabled smartphone app in the car. For every second the car is either too slow or too fast in completing a section, the team gets assigned one point. As in golf, the team with the fewest points at the end wins.

“It’s a team e ort,” Hamilton said. “The navigator is really the one who has to have their thinking cap on.”

Indeed, while the concept may seem straightforward, doing well requires more than not getting lost or encountering mechanical problems. It’s critical that teams read and interpret the instructions as accurately as possible.

Sometimes the instructions include a directive, such as requiring drivers to stop at every covered bridge and wait 20 seconds before proceeding. Other times, teams must remember a prior directive from miles earlier, such as not changing road surfaces from pavement to gravel, even if that’s where the map seems to point.

“We don’t try to trick people. It’s not our intention to get them lost,” Hamilton said. “But if somebody isn’t paying attention, they’re going to make a wrong turn.”

If they do, the team must backtrack, calculate how much time they lost, then figure out how to make it up. Invariably, fixing errors requires doing math on the fly. But aside from having a stopwatch and calculator on board, teams aren’t permitted to use advanced technologies. These include GPS mapping programs as well as rally computers that can

Rallies in the 1950s were labor intensive, requiring scores of volunteers at checkpoints along the route to time competitors.

Competitor plate from 1954

A competitor in the 2022 Great American Mountain Rally Revival

COURTESY OF SHOOT FOR DETAILS/GARY HAMILTON

HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARY HAMILTON

IT’S LIKE A CHESS GAME, WITHOUT THE TIME TO FIGURE OUT THE CORRECT MOVE.

Road Scholars

calculate distances down to 1/1,000th of a mile and automatically adjust the car’s speed.

“It’s like a chess game, without the time to figure out the correct move,” said Tim Winker, of Twig, Minn. A rally enthusiast since 1969, Winker, 71, has competed in the Great American Mountain Rally Revival three times. This year, he’ll be navigating for driver Bruce Billing of Cape Neddick, Maine, in a 1969 Saab 95.

Though the sport of rally originated in Europe, the Great American Mountain Rally Revival has its roots in New England in the 1950s — hence the “revival” in its name.

In 1953, a group of mostly Jewish businessmen, all sports car enthusiasts from New York City who’d been excluded from other car clubs because of antisemitism, formed the Motor Sports Club of America. They organized their own hill climbs and other races, many of whose participants had been American soldiers introduced to European sports cars during World War II.

On Thanksgiving Day 1953, the club held its first Great American Mountain Rallye, adopting the traditional European spelling for the sport. The rally took three to four days and covered 1,100 miles. It began in New York City, ran north through New Hampshire and Vermont, crossed the Canadian border at Alburgh, then returned through the Adirondacks to a finish line in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Sixty teams competed the first year, at least half of which were from Europe. The rallye was held four times in the 1950s, and while the routes always changed, “They hit Vermont hard every year,” said Hamilton, who’s acquired

original documentation, maps and photos from the 1950s events. Because rallies were always held Thanksgiving week, drivers frequently encountered bad weather and muddy or snow-covered roads, especially on the Lincoln and Appalachian gaps.

In those days, every competitor received a 1953 Mobil Oil map, the old-school paper variety that were handed out at gas stations. Typically, it took two maps to cover all the routes, Hamilton said, and the instructions specified that no roads could be used that weren’t on the maps. Competitors drove 24 hours a day, often using flashlights in the car to navigate at night.

Checkpoints were staffed by timekeepers who parked on the side of the road with stopwatches and time cards. But unlike today’s rallies, Hamilton noted, the speeds that those drivers were directed to follow were “quite brisk.” Suffice it to say, posted speed limits were frequently exceeded.

The last Great American Mountain Rallye was held in 1956. In 2018, Hamilton and a friend, Steve McKelvie, a rally enthusiast who competed in Europe, resurrected it. After McKelvie died unexpectedly in January 2019, Hamilton, a sports car enthusiast himself, decided to keep it going.

Among the many challenges teams face is that the rally, held midweek, happens on roads that are open to other traffic. Cars inevitably encounter obstacles that slow them down and throw off their timing.

Jeff Hassenfeld has learned to expect the unexpected. This year the 63-year-old from Selkirk, N.Y., will compete in his fourth Great American Mountain Rally Revival. He’s driving a 1972 BMW 2002 with his navigator, Don Marr, of Seattle, Wash.

Once, Hassenfeld came upon a backhoe whose operator

had stopped in the middle of the road to talk to a driver going in the opposite direction. Another time, his car was passing a horse farm at 25 miles per hour when a rider lost control of his horse, which bolted in front of the car. Fearing he’d hit the animal if he slammed on the brakes, Hassenfeld drove onto a neighbor’s lawn instead.

“We maintained our speed and didn’t hit anybody,” Hassenfeld said. “Even at those low speeds, it’s still really fun.”

The Great American Mountain Rally Revival may not give spectators the adrenaline rush of a Formula 1 or NASCAR race, but antique car buffs will relish the vintage vehicles. This year’s field includes a 1930 Chrysler C70 Roadster, a 1959 Jaguar Mark 1 and a 1953 Sunbeam Alpine. The last of those is almost identical to the car that Cary Grant and Grace Kelly drove in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1955 movie To Catch a Thief

The ’53 Alpine has its own history with this rally. As Hamilton noted, in 1953 and 1954, Rootes Motors, an English auto manufacturer, sent its rally team to the U.S. to compete with the same model. This year’s Alpine, which is being shipped to Vermont from California, will be driven by Jim Pohl, with his wife, Joyce Mordenti, as navigator.

Perhaps because many people’s earliest memories of driving and navigating were formed during family road trips, it’s not surprising that a number of the competitors are related. This year’s teams include siblings Scott and Lisa Rabideau, driving a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300D; Susan and Carl Fernyak, another sibling team, driving a 2018 Porsche Boxster S; Ed and Doug Sain, a father and son driving a 1995 Toyota Celica GT convertible; and Paul Joubert and Beverly Hand, a couple from Canton, Mass., driving a 1965 Oldsmobile 442. According to the couple’s bio, this is Joubert and Hand’s second rally together, which they’re doing “just to test the marriage again!”

Clearly, some competitors are in it to win, while other simply enjoy adding a challenge to a scenic drive.

“You have to concentrate so hard on what you’re doing that it blocks out everything else,” Hassenfeld said. “The day flies by because you’re so in the moment.

“We’re doing this really cool, different thing with really cool cars,” he added. “For me, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

INFO

The Great American Mountain Rally Revival will be held Monday, September 25, to Wednesday, September 27, with cars leaving each day starting at 9 a.m. from Bolton Valley Resort. Learn more at greatamericanmountainrally.car.blog.

Competitors in the 1955 Great American Mountain Rallye arriving in Lake Placid, N.Y.

A competitor in the 2022 Great American Mountain Rally Revival

COURTESY

In the 1950s, the Great American Mountain Rallye was held Thanksgiving week, when inclement weather often forced organizers to find alternate routes.

HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARY HAMILTON

Map of the 1955 rally route

The future is

We

POWERED

KEYNOTE+RECEPTION: 3-5 P.M.

Will Vermonters go for lab-grown meat?

The USDA recently approved the production and sale of “cell-cultivated chicken.” What kinds of challenges and opportunities does noslaughter meat present? Dr. Rachael Floreani and Irfan Tahir, two UVM-based pioneers in the rapidly evolving field of cellular agriculture, explore those questions in a keynote conversation.

POWERED BY

How UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice Makes the End of Life Worth Living

When Christine Werneke went on her first home visit to see a hospice patient in 2011, she expected it to be difficult — “I had a scary mental picture,” she said. After all, hospice patients are dealing with terminal illness.

“I thought the person receiving hospice care would look very frail and fragile,” she recalled.

But Werneke, now President and Chief Operating Officer of the UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice, said her visit wasn’t anything like what she’d expected. “The patient answered the door in a muumuu, and we sat down and just had the best conversation.”

As the nurse took vital signs, the three of them discussed openly and honestly how the woman was doing. “Everyone knew what was going on,” Werneke said. “No one was whispering or ignoring the fact that it was a hospice visit.”

“Afterward,” she added, “I wanted to go on another visit.”

Werneke said it’s common for people to have misconceptions about end-of-life care. That’s why it’s so important to educate people about their options. The UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice program includes a highly trained, interdisciplinary team of health care professionals — and more than 300 community volunteers — who care for both the patient and the patient’s

family or caregivers, helping everyone navigate this transition.

HAVING A SUPPORT TEAM

Hospice is about providing care and supportive services to ensure that

people get to live and die how and where they choose.

One of the most common misconceptions about it is that it’s for just a few days, hospice medical director Dr. Nancy Long said: “Hospice is actually handcrafted and designed to support people for months.” She often hears from patients and families who say they wish they’d known sooner how supportive it can be.

The right time to pursue hospice, she said, is when the patient is no longer seeking curative treatment. The discussion can start even sooner: The UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice team encourages Vermonters to talk about hospice with their provider as soon as they, or a family member, receives a terminal diagnosis. While only a medical provider can make a formal referral to hospice, patients and families can start the referral process themselves by asking their provider or doctor to contact hospice, or they can reach out directly to inquire about a referral, even if they are not sure if they are ready for hospice. An early referral gives patients the flexibility to receive hospice care either at home or at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester — Vermont’s only Medicare-certified inpatient hospice residence — as appropriate, which can be very helpful for families (see sidebar).

Hospice social worker Tom Paquette said, “I would rather people call and ask and start the conversation, even if it’s not time yet.”

Paquette is part of the hospice team, too. The care team includes a physician, nurse practitioner, nurses, licensed nursing assistants, medical social workers, bereavement counselors and spiritual caregivers who are trained in working with people of multiple faiths.

Joan Newton O’Gorman, who provides spiritual care, said she often sees patients for whom relief from suffering has a spiritual connection.

In March, she was called to meet with a patient in need. When she arrived at the house, the patient’s husband said she couldn’t speak for herself, and he gave O’Gorman information on their faith history.

“I asked permission to say a prayer, and I held her hand, and her husband held the other,” O’Gorman said. “I finished the prayer, and she died the

PHOTOS: RYAN MERCER, UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT HEALTH NETWORK

Nancy Carlson, RN, of the UVM Health Network –Home Health & Hospice, soothes one of her patients during a home visit

The Hospice team works with each patient to meet their goals for end of life. Here, Hospice Social Worker Ezra Lebowitz and Respite House Administrative Manager Maddy Sullivan-Drake review the materials given to each patient and their family.

PROVIDING RELIEF AND RESPITE

Many McClure Miller Respite House staff members skip breakfast on Thursdays because they know Mimi Hindes will bake something delicious. Both of Mimi’s parents died in the Respite House. As she entered retirement, she started volunteering there alongside her husband, Church Hindes, president of UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice (then known as the Visiting Nurse Association) from 1999 to 2012. Mimi and Church joined the more than 300 volunteers who fulfill essential roles at the Respite House every day.

Mimi recalled when her mother became a resident. “When we walked through those doors, it was like, ‘Oh, thank goodness. Someone who knows what they’re doing is going to take over,’” she said. “As a family, we could start the grieving process without having to worry if Mom was in pain. The staff was wonderful.”

The McClure Miller Respite House, a program of UVM Health Network –Home Health & Hospice, is named for Holly and Bob Miller and Lois McClure, longtime supporters and friends. Opened as Vermont Respite House in Williston in 1991, the residence became part of the UVM Health Network –Home Health & Hospice in 1997.

Getting it started required a tremendous volunteer effort. Back then, a residence designed for people in hospice care was a new concept. “It provided an answer for people who didn’t have a caregiver at home,”

moment I said ‘Amen.’ Her husband said that was the most comforting thing that could’ve happened.”

Trained volunteers also play an integral role. Medicare requires that at least 5 percent of a hospice program’s care be provided by volunteers. Most programs around the country attract a higher percentage than what Medicare requires, but the UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice’s is particularly popular; its 300-plus volunteers — many of whom apply because they’ve experienced what it’s like to have someone in hospice — deliver 25 to 30 percent of all care. They make meals, provide companionship, walk pets, sit vigil and bring people takeout.

“It’s a remarkable volunteer program in addition to an outstanding clinical team,” O’Gorman said.

At the end of life, “we need everybody, just like you do when you bring a baby into the world and we get ready for the baby,” Long said. “It’s not just one person. It’s a team. We wrap around the family, and the person in hospice is at the center of that. We

said Christine Werneke, the current President and Chief Operating Officer.

In the beginning, a group of community members coalesced around the idea of a Respite House. The program grew organically. In 2017, the need for more rooms drove the Respite House to move to a larger home in Colchester, funded by an $8 million fundraising campaign.

One thing that hasn’t changed: No one is turned away, regardless of their ability to pay. Ongoing donations make that possible.

Every day at the Respite House is different. Staff and volunteers aid each resident in achieving their goals

for end of life, support families in gathering meaningfully and mourn when residents pass away. The Respite House is a true home away from home for residents, with quilts upon each bed and home-cooked meals every day. Church Hindes views the staff and volunteers as the “special dust” sprinkled about that make the Respite House such a sacred place: “It’s always about the people who are there — a remarkable constellation of social workers and LNAs and nurses and chaplains and bereavement specialists and volunteers. The clinical teams are absolutely top drawer, truly skilled and deeply caring,” he said

me to never give up. So that’s what I do. I never, ever give up,” he said.

The UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice team also emphasizes that hospice care is not about giving up. “Hospice is just transitioning to a more comprehensive care program for the patient,” Lead Bereavement Coordinator Paul Weil said — “not just for who is dying, but for their whole family.”

Wooden passed away in early July shortly after being moved to the McClure Miller Respite House. His wife, Martha, was by his side. Earlier that evening, Ken’s four children and Martha had gathered in his room, playing cards, drinking margaritas, laughing and sharing memories.

Wooden’s daughter, Jennifer, said she was happy her father was able to spend his last few months in his favorite place – Vermont. “That was possible because the hospice care he got here was just so incredible.”

STAYING BY YOUR SIDE

The support hospice provides doesn’t end with death. “A wonderful thing about the hospice benefit is that we are able to provide bereavement support for a year,” Long said.

tailor our care and support services to what their goals are, knowing their time is short.”

NOT GIVING UP

Though hospice workers aren’t seeking a cure, they’re tending to patients’ medical needs. When nurse Mackenzie Burnett and social worker Julie Jacob-Ochs called on Ken Wooden for his weekly hospice visit one afternoon in June, they helped him address a severe ear infection unrelated to the cancer that led him to hospice.

The infection made him uncomfortable and kept him from hearing but didn’t stop the octogenarian from telling jokes and sharing his life story.

Meanwhile, Burnett contacted doctors to determine options for antibiotics and bandaged a cut on

Wooden’s leg. While she attended to his medical issues, social worker Julie Jacob-Ochs spoke to Wooden’s wife and daughter about how they were handling the stress of the situation. She made suggestions to help them cope, such as setting up a schedule to go on walks together.

Wooden’s family described him as resilient, which might have something to do with the tattoo on his arm, which he got late in life. Wooden eagerly showed it off.

“You know what that says? ‘Nuts,’” he said. It references his time in the army, which he said turned his life around. During the Battle of the Bulge, in World War II, he recalled, the Germans told the Americans they should surrender.

“And that’s what they said: ‘Nuts.’ And they won the battle. They beat the Germans, and that story taught

Postmortem care for patients is a sacred time. At the time of death, the nursing staff ensure that the body is cared for according to the patient’s wishes. Loved ones are invited to participate. At the Respite House, staff and volunteers are included by lining the hall as an opportunity to honor those they care for, reflect on the residents and accompany them on their journey leaving the Respite House.

Hospice care for patients is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether in the Respite House or at home, they have access to the entire system of wraparound care to call for what they need, whenever they need it, at any time of day.

Long said she feels hospice is needed “more than ever before.” Aging, sickness, dying and grief — every household experiences them. She hopes that their services can reach more of the communities they serve, she said. “The world needs us.”

Denise Barry could find day-to-day joy in her life despite the fact that she was dying. Thanks to the McClure Miller Respite House, a UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice service, Denise was able to receive hospice care that far exceeded anything she could get at home. This expert physical, mental and even spiritual care allowed her to live the rest of her life with dignity, comfort and celebration.

Bringing Havana Home

Santiago’s celebrates Cuban American food and culture in Burlington

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

Oscar Arencibia and Luis Calderin will not be surprised on the day that Cuban-born movie star Ana de Armas shows up at Santiago’s Cuban Cuisine, the longanticipated restaurant they finally opened in Burlington’s Main Street Landing on August 4.

De Armas, who earned an Oscar nomination for her performance as Marilyn Monroe in Blonde , recently bought a house in southern Vermont, the business partners said.

“She will come,” Calderin said confidently. “I don’t know how you’d be a Cuban in Vermont and not ever come to Burlington and not be curious about the one Cuban restaurant.”

Santiago’s co-owners Arencibia, 47, and Calderin, 49, have a broader goal beyond offering a menu of Cuban and Cuban American classics — such as the caramelized ripe plantains known as platanos; slow-cooked ropa vieja of beef, peppers and onions; and a meticulously executed Cubano sandwich.

De Armas is already on what Calderin and Arencibia have dubbed “the Cuban wall of fame,” the first thing that guests see when they enter the restaurant foyer. The photographic homage to notable Cuban Americans features actors Andy Garcia and Cameron Diaz; Grammy Award winner Gloria Estefan; singer Celia Cruz, “the queen of salsa”; and Oscar Nuñez of “The Office.”

“It’s very intentional,” said Calderin, the restaurant’s general manager. The wall demonstrates the range of Cuban identity, he said, from “Afro-Cuban Black to Cameron Diaz, who’s seen as white girl as they get.”

Sitting recently at a table in Santiago’s, the pair of first-generation Cuban American restaurateurs said their main goal is to share their culture through traditional and family recipes. Around them, the thoroughly renovated 76-seat space boasted striking lakeside views, eye-catching Spanish tile floors and a

jungle of tropical plants — both real ones and depictions on the fancifully papered walls.

But the restaurant also has a “secret mission,” said Arencibia, the executive chef, “[of] having a place for our people — Black and brown people that live in this community — to come and feel like they have a home.”

The two understand firsthand how it feels to seek out those connections and how food can spark them.

Calderin first messaged Arencibia after learning of his Santiago’s Cuban food pop-ups, which Arencibia launched in April 2021 from rented kitchen space at Zachary’s Pizza in South Burlington.

“Luis was like, ‘Hey, who are you? What’s your story?’” Arencibia recalled.

Both men’s families were among those who left Cuba in the early 1970s following the Cuban Revolution. Calderin, who moved from Miami to Burlington when he was 12, had long dreamed of opening a Cuban restaurant to connect the area’s diasporic Spanish-speaking community. In the meantime, he built a successful marketing and communications career, worked as a DJ, and hobnobbed with the glitterati during his job rallying the youth vote for the presidential campaign of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

Arencibia is a more recent transplant to Vermont. He arrived in 2015 after leaving

his hometown of West New York, N.J., and his career in restaurant kitchens to work in solar energy.

The two became friends and then business partners on the pop-ups, which moved to Essex Junction before landing in what is now Butter Bar & Kitchen in Burlington’s New North End for a four-month trial run of Santiago’s de la Avenida Norte.

The name Santiago’s dates back to around 2009, Arencibia said, when he and a friend aspired to start a food business in the region of West New York, home to a high concentration of Cuban Americans.

Ropa vieja with tostones and red beans

JAMES BUCK

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

Electra’s Restaurant to Open in Shelburne

DONNELL COLLINS, chef-owner of LEUNIG’S BISTRO & CAFÉ and the PETIT BIJOU kiosk in Burlington and LE MARCHÉ CAFÉ in Shelburne, plans to open ELECTRA’S RESTAURANT in mid-October in the Shelburne spot formerly occupied by the Bearded Frog. The latter restaurant closed in August 2022 due to short staffing.

The chef became sole owner of Leunig’s in early 2020 and opened her Shelburne café and bakery in December 2022. She lives with her family around the corner from the new restaurant, which is at 5247 Shelburne Road.

Collins has been working with a team to renovate the 110-seat restaurant in the Shelburne Inn, which dates back to 1796. She described herself as excited to have a project that is her own “from start to finish,” saying that Electra’s “is kinda like my passion project.”

The restaurant has no affiliation with the nearby Shelburne Museum founded

by Electra Havemeyer Webb, Collins clarified: “The name came from my friend’s cat, who happens to be Electra as well.”

Like the museum, however, Electra’s

Hugo’s to Reopen in Different Montpelier Location

After devastating July flood ing, the Montpelier restaurant formerly called Hugo’s Bar & Grill will relaunch as HUGO’S in a new location at 44 Main Street, said owner TOM GREENE, who hopes to open in mid-October. The spot, which Greene said has been vacant since 2018, is best

The bar and lounge at Electra’s Restaurant.

Right: Donnell Collins

He would have been happy, he said, with a “hole-in-the-wall like the cafeterías I grew up with.”

The restaurant that Arencibia and Calderin eventually opened is far from a hole-in-the-wall. Despite its menu of unfussy Cuban recipes, Santiago’s feels like a classy, island-accented destination where your abuela and, say, Ana de Armas would feel equally welcome.

Especially in the dark depths of winter, Calderin said, “I hope this place helps people feel like they’re taking a little vacation.”

The business partners said they wanted to create a restaurant that demonstrates how much they value their community. A combination of

crowdfunding and personal and private investments contributed to a build-out budget of upwards of several hundred thousand dollars, Calderin said.

“If I did have a hole-in-the-wall, I’d still be as proud,” Arencibia said, “but there’s a whole other level to this, because we’re able to serve this community and showcase our culture with more gravitas, more meaning.”

The resulting vibe is refreshingly “very not Vermont, which I love,” one of my dining companions said. That applies to everything from the décor to the playlists of rumba, salsa and AfroLatin music to Calderin’s way of hosting the dining room like it’s his living room

Eat More Kale — With is Sauce

Reader recipe request for “Lesbian Kale Salad”

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

We recently received “a heartfelt request” from reader Celia Cuddy of Burlington. “Years ago (maybe in the 1990s?), Seven Days published a recipe for something called ‘Lesbian Kale Salad,’” Cuddy wrote. “It was delicious. I cut out the recipe and saved it for many years, but — gasp — this aging lesbian can’t find it anymore in my recipe collections. I’ve searched for it on your website, but no luck. Can you help me, please?”

A little sleuthing among longtime Seven Days staffers uncovered the magical recipe Cuddy sought. It turns out that its publication dates back not as far as the 1990s but to a 2008 article about Bo Moore (then Bo Muller-Moore) of “Eat More Kale” fame.

Along with explaining the story behind the “catchy, quirky, cryptic, trendy” slogan, the article naturally included two recipes for ways to eat more kale, including one for a tangy, umami-rich dressing named Lesbian Kale Sauce, which is why Cuddy’s search was initially fruitless.

Seven Days touched base with Holly Rae Taylor of Bolton, the original recipe’s source. In the intro, Taylor attributed it to Anya Schwartz, “who probably got it from some hippie cookbook — but I came up with the name, so I think that counts for something.”

By email last week, Taylor wrote, “How exciting to see Lesbian Kale Sauce back in the limelight!” She couldn’t remember the

exact genesis of the name but thinks it was “just putting our own in-group stamp on it.” It was deployed more as sauce for steamed kale, Taylor added, because back then “we didn’t massage our kale into salads.”

According to Taylor, Schwartz — who lives in Bristol — said the recipe “has evolved a bit from the original.”

e version below reflects that latest evolution with my testing notes in parentheses. With Schwartz’s subbing of apple cider vinegar and maple syrup for the original balsamic vinegar and sugar, respectively, it has gotten even more Vermonty.

e original recipe can still be found online at the bottom of the 2008 article. (Search

“lesbian kale sauce.”) at included “two perfectly acceptable ways to enjoy Lesbian Kale Sauce: 1. Dip steaming hot steamed kale directly into sauce, one fork- or chopstickful at a time. 2. Pour sauce over a big beautiful bowl of steamed kale, toss and serve!”

I love kale as much as the next locavore Vermonter, but I do not care for it steamed; it tastes to me like soggy newspaper. But I found this sauce equally delicious as a dressing for raw, ribboned kale, which I softened by briefly massaging it with a squeeze of lemon juice and dash of coarse salt.

However you enjoy your kale, Lesbian Kale Sauce will definitely encourage you to eat more of it. ➆

2023 VERSION OF LESBIAN KALE SAUCE

Adapted from Anya Schwartz

Makes about 3/4 cup

INGREDIENTS

• 5 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 5 tablespoons tamari

• 2 dashes sesame oil (I used 1/4 teaspoon)

• 3 tablespoons water

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1 nub ginger, grated (I used about 1 packed teaspoon)

• 1 clove garlic minced, optional (I used about 1 packed teaspoon)

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Wasabi to taste, optional

• 1/2 cup sesame seeds toasted with a pinch of sea salt, divided ( is is a lot of sesame seeds; a scant 1/4 cup seemed plenty.)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all the ingredients with 1 tablespoon of the sesame seeds.

2. Taste and adjust ingredients as desired.

3. Use the sauce to dress steamed or raw, briefly massaged kale, and sprinkle more sesame seeds on top. (Raw baby kale can simply be dressed; no massaging required.)

MELISSA PASANEN

Massaged kale salad made with Lesbian Kale Sauce

Piña con nada, mojito, and Creole shrimp with platanos and black beans

— stopping by every table, switching fluidly between Spanish and English.

During my first meal at Santiago’s, my party of three ordered two Cuban staples: lechón asado ($19), soft, shredded, roasted pork shoulder marinated in garlic, cumin, oregano and sour orange; and a beefy tangle of deeply flavored ropa vieja ($23). We also had the pollo asado, a slow-roasted, tender-asbutter bone-in chicken leg made with the same citrusy mojo as the pork.

All were seasoned and cooked well enough to make Abuela proud — although Arencibia concurred that it’s a pity he can’t currently source skin-on pork shoulder, which would deliver the delectably crunchy shards of skin of which dreams are made.

Each main (except for the Cubano) comes with white rice and a choice of two sides among several starches and beans. I am a huge fan of the deeply caramelized maduros, in which the plantain’s ripe sweetness balances its natural tang. The black beans and red beans are also both excellent. The latter, which cost an extra $1 as a main side, are Calderin’s Tía (Aunt) Elsa’s recipe cooked with two tropical root vegetables, boniato and malanga, plus pumpkin and three types of pork. To provide a vegetarian option, Arencibia said, the kitchen makes the black beans without pork fat, departing from his family recipe.

On that note, vegetarians and vegans could make a satisfying meal of the side dishes and salads, though their choice of mains is currently limited to a version of picadillo in which textured vegetable protein subs for the ground beef. Cooked with onions, bell peppers and tomatoes and studded with olives, it’s $18 with either protein.

Many gluten-free diners, by contrast, will find that they can eat most of the items on the menu — much to the delight of the friend who joined my husband and me during our first Santiago’s meal.

That friend, who also minimizes her alcohol consumption, was equally delighted by the rich, not too sweet piña con nada ($8), a nonalcoholic version of the tropical cocktail. My husband and I were similarly happy with our spirited cocktails: a minty mojito ($12) and Hotel Nacional ($14), a sweet-tart rum cocktail named for Havana’s most famous hotel.

The piña con nada would make a more than acceptable dessert alternative if you’re not tempted by Arencibia’s Abuela Nancy’s recipe for caramel-slicked flan ($8) or the sweet, milk-drenched

tres leches cake crowned with torched whipped meringue ($8.50).

The one disappointment of my two meals was the red snapper ceviche ($16) appetizer, which lacked the bracing doses of citrus and salinity that I expect and love in such preparations. I tried it both nights in case I had hit it on an off night, gladly crunching through the accompanying trio of housemade root chips made with plantains, boniato and malanga.

During my second meal, a friend and I shared the Cubano sandwich ($16) and the Creole shrimp ($28). The latter, to my surprise, was a highlight of my Santiago’s dining experiences to date: perfectly cooked shrimp swimming in a chunky tomato and bell pepper sauce generously seasoned with cumin.

Arencibia and Calderin take their Cubano very seriously. The result is a textbook example that, they claim, has brought many Cuban American diners at Santiago’s to tears.

The much-riffed-on sandwich reportedly owes its components to the global mix of immigrants working in south Florida’s cigar-rolling factories. Arencibia and Calderin are purists who have carefully considered each ingredient and step, from the shredded lechón and smoked ham to the kosher dill pickles and yellow mustard slathered “end to end,” Arencibia said. The chef detailed that “a little bit of butter on the top of the bread gives it a nice crunchy gloss” when it emerges from the sandwich press.

The pair proudly sources the bread from the historic La Segunda bakery in Tampa, Fla. Arencibia recounted how his paternal grandfather would drive 90 miles there from his home in Orlando to “get, like, 10 or 20 loaves at a time, bring it home and stick it in his freezer.”

That level of detail is just one way Santiago’s pays homage to Arencibia’s and Calderin’s forebears. At the same time, they look forward in hopes of creating something for the next generation — including their four kids, ages 1 to 23.

“These are the type of homestyle recipes that have existed for generations,” Calderin said. “This is comfort food. This is home food. This is our soul food.”

Burlington is lucky that they are happy to share. ➆

INFO

Santiago’s, 3 Main St., Burlington, 540-2444, santiagosvt.com. Reservations strongly recommended.

I HOPE THIS PLACE HELPS PEOPLE FEEL LIKE THEY’RE TAKING A LITTLE VACATION.

LUIS CALDERIN

Tres leches cake and flan

Oscar Arencibia (left) and Luis Calderin

Cubano sandwich

PHOTOS: JAMES BUCK

Still on Fire

Essex Junction’s Firebird Café serves vibrant flavors and value

BY CAROLYN SHAPIRO

The notion of a bargain has shifted in the past year, with prices for everything from bread to burgers showing marked elevation. Firebird Café, a breakfast and lunch mainstay for almost 20 years in Essex Junction, updated its menu just a few months ago to reflect not only higher ingredient costs but also pay increases for employees. Those were necessary to attract and retain staff, according to owner Jake Tran.

“I held out as long as I could,” Tran said. “We had to offer more money for people to work.”

Most of Firebird’s omelettes, burritos and sandwiches have now crossed the $12 threshold by a dollar or two, but I’d argue that they still qualify as a Dining on a Dime deal. Tran has taken the classics and given them Cali-Mexican-inspired twists, with fresh fillings and unique seasonings that deliver solid value for reasonable prices.

One of my favorites is the poblano chile omelette ($13.95): sautéed poblano peppers, red onion and black beans swaddled with eggs. It’s topped with a healthy dose of chipotle sauce and accompanied by sour cream, a bright pile of pico de gallo and crispy home fries.

The omelette comes browned and slightly crispy on the outside, which delights me because I prefer my eggs well done. It takes more than extra sizzling

time to produce that firmer finish. Tran explained that he does the omelette “inside out” by sprinkling a blend of cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses on top of the eggs. When they’re flipped, the cheese crusts and caramelizes, mellowing into an extra-rich flavor.

The fresh vegetables inside have a nice

bite, with a mild kick from the poblano pepper. The smoky chipotle sauce perks up the fillings.

On a recent weekday lunch visit, I chose the Harvest sandwich ($12.25) of smoked turkey, Havarti cheese and housemade apple chutney on multigrain bread. With its Granny Smith apples, the chutney leaned

more tart than sweet, while onions and a dose of ginger added savory notes. It struck the ideal balance against the Havarti tang and smoked meat.

The new prices of each dish reflect hikes in ingredient, delivery and other supply costs, Tran said. Eggs from Shadow Cross Farm, for example, cost him $35 to $40 for 30 dozen before the pandemic. That figure climbed as high as $125 before the Colchester operation closed earlier this year, he said.

Firebird also boosted pay for most employees from about $15 to $19 per hour, he said. Last summer, Tran hired a chef at $25 an hour.

In 2019, Firebird moved from its 15-year perch in a little house on Route 15 to its current quarters in a former gas station at Five Corners. When we visited most recently for brunch, my husband and I sat at a wrought-iron table on the small deck that Tran added during the pandemic, enjoying a warm late-summer day along with our delicious poblano omelette and a Supremo Burrito ($13.95) with eggs, cheese, avocado and the same chipotle sauce on top.

As my husband put it, this went beyond the usual ham-and-cheese omelette for breakfast. Firebird delivers a little something special that you can’t get anywhere else — and you can’t put a price on that. ➆

Dining on a Dime is a series featuring well-made, filling bites (something substantial enough to qualify as a small meal or better) for around $12 or less. Know of a tasty dish we should feature? Drop us a line: food@sevendaysvt.com.

INFO

Firebird Café, 1 Main St., Essex Junction, 316-4265, thefirebirdcafe.com

Poblano chile omelette at Firebird Café

PHOTOS: DARIA BISHOP

Jake Tran

Harvest sandwich

SIDEdishes

known as the former home of the Black Door Bar & Bistro.

As previously reported by Seven Days, GREENE decided to move Hugo’s from its original 118 Main Street location after floods destroyed the restaurant, which featured a basement lounge. The new location has the appeal of occupying the second and third floors. “It’s not going to get flooded,” Greene said.

The second floor includes a 40-seat back deck. The third floor was once a live music venue, and Greene plans to restore it to that function.

The menu of Hugo’s will become “less fine dining,” Greene said. He has hired a new chef, ROB GARCELON, formerly executive chef at Norwich University, to craft bistro classics — such as steak frites, mussels and oysters — along with what Greene described as “hipster Asian food.” The latter might include Korean fried chicken and “different grilled things on sticks,” he said.

“The space in some way dictates the food,” Greene said, noting that the new location feels suited to a casual gathering or party where guests might share plates. The bar will continue to offer craft cocktails, local craft beers and natural wines.

Michael’s on the Hill in Waterbury Center Sold to New Owners

About four years after LAURA and MICHAEL KLOETI put MICHAEL’S ON THE HILL on the market for $1.4 million, the 82-seat Waterbury Center restaurant and its property, including about four acres of land, has sold for $1.2 million. As of Tuesday, the new owners are married couple DON JONES and ANDREW KOHN, who also run Stowe’s Brass Lantern

Inn, which they bought just over a year ago after moving to Vermont from Columbus, Ohio, with their two children.

The Kloetis opened Michael’s in a historic 1820 farmhouse in June 2002. Michael, a chef, ran the kitchen, and Laura was the restaurant’s general manager.

When they decided to sell the restaurant in 2019, Laura told Seven Days they were ready for “a new chapter.” The couple said they knew it might take time to find a buyer but were committed to offering their elegant menu of European-style dishes featuring many Vermont ingredients until then.

Shortly after the deal was signed, the Kloetis said they felt good about the next step. Laura said Jones and Kohn seem to share their approach of “how to treat guests and listen to staff.” She added, “They love good food, too.”

Michael’s will continue to operate without interruption, and Kohn said there are no immediate changes planned. The team of about 22, including Michael’s longtime general manager and event director, ERIC GRIFFIN , and former executive sous chef, now executive chef, JEFF THIBEAULT , plans to stay on.

Michael said he is not worried about leaving his namesake restaurant. “It’s not hard to leave the restaurant behind as a building,” he said. “It’s hard to leave the people.” ➆

Michael’s on the Hill

The Poet Next Door

BY JIM SCHLEY • schley@sevendaysvt.com

In 1999, when Ellen Bryant Voigt was chosen for a four-year term as Vermont state poet (now called poet laureate), she initiated a special project. With support from the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Fund, she created a three-year, statewide program called the Poet Next Door to bring nine contemporary Vermont writers into high school classrooms for conversations about their art, in person or via interactive TV. (Full disclosure: I was one of the participating writers.) Voigt knew that many students believed poets could be found only in books. She hoped to show them that, in Vermont, poets could be right in your neighborhood, no matter how small a town you lived in.

Voigt, now 80, is the author of nine poetry collections, including

Messenger: New and Selected Poems

1976-2006 (2007), finalist for the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize; and Kyrie: Poems (1995), finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award. All the poems from her previous volumes have now been gathered into Collected Poems, published in the spring.

In 2015, Voigt received a MacArthur Fellowship — aka a “Genius Grant.” Her other honors include the Arts and Letters Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters; the Folger Shakespeare Library’s O.B. Hardison Jr. Poetry Prize; and fellowships and grants

from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Guggenheim Foundation and the Academy of American Poets. An influential teacher and a teacher of teachers, she founded the world’s first low-residency MFA program for writers at Goddard College in Plainfield.

All that worldly acclaim notwithstanding, she herself is a “poet next door.”

I interviewed Voigt in the house near the village of Cabot where she has lived for half a century. Visiting is like stepping into the setting of dozens of her poems.

southern Appalachian inflection, honeyed but sharpened with ginger.

In “The Farmer,” a poem about her father, she describes the continuous toil:

meadow-rue...”

Here is “the apple tree, first / to shatter its petals onto the clipped grass, // or the slovenly heads of the russet peonies // or even that late-to-arrive pastel, / all stalk / with a few staggered blossoms, meadow-rue...”

(“Autumn in the Yard We Planted”). Here is her Bechstein grand piano, with “hammers of walnut — nussbaum, ‘nut tree’; / the pinblock, hard-grained beech; // the keyframe, oak; the keybed, pine; / the knuckles, rosewood. In the belly, to ripen the tone, / maple, mahogany, and ironwood…” (“Rubato”).

For five decades, at home in this very specific place, the poet has written about the astounding adventure of being a human in a body, a member of a family and a thoughtful, wide-awake citizen of small-town America.

Voigt grew up on a farmstead in Chatham, Va., and she has retained her

cattle and pigs; chickens for awhile; a drayhorse, saddlehorses he was paid to pasture— an endless stupid round of animals, one of them always hungry, sick, lost, calving or farrowing, or waiting slaughter.

As a child, she realized that her musicloving parents, whose own work was never done, would give her a reprieve from chores as long as they heard the sound of her practicing. As she wrote in “At the Piano”:

At the piano, the girl, as if rowing upstream, is driving triplets against the duple meter, one hand for repetition, one hand for variation and for song. She knows nothing, but Bach knows everything.

After high school, Voigt studied music at Converse College (now Converse University) in Spartanburg, S.C., expecting to become a music instructor and band director. She said she had always pictured herself as a teacher, as all the women in her family had been. Yet the strict discipline of classical music came to feel constraining.

One summer during college, Voigt had a job accompanying singing waiters and waitresses at a restaurant in North Carolina. Her roommate, who was constantly reading, introduced her to the poems of John Keats, William Butler Yeats, Rainer Maria Rilke and E.E. Cummings, which were a revelation to her.

Voigt soon chose a di erent path — writing — but she said that, to this day, music is inseparable from her compositional process: “If I can hear the tune, I can write the poem.”

From 1964 to 1966, she studied at the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop, where she met and married Fran Voigt, who was studying political science. When Fran completed his degree, they searched the country for teaching jobs. In 1969, they came to Goddard College, and in 1971 they bought the home in Cabot where Ellen still lives. Her husband, who cofounded New

Ellen Bryant Voigt talks about her new landmark volume of Collected Poems

Ellen Bryant Voigt

England Culinary Institute in 1980, died in 2018.

When their son, Will, was born, Ellen decided that a “low-residency” setup, which Goddard had pioneered for undergrads, would also work for graduate-level writers. Corresponding with their teachers by mail, students could attend to their jobs and families anywhere and gather twice a year for intensive classes in person. This arrangement was also attractive to some of the country’s most prominent authors, who could have campus-based jobs elsewhere.

The MFA program that Voigt developed launched in 1976; in 1981, it moved to a new home at Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, N.C., where I was one of her students in the mid-1980s.

Voigt’s fascinations and practice as a teacher helped inspire two of the most absorbing and useful books on the craft of poetry ever written: The Flexible Lyric (1999) and The Art of Syntax: Rhythm of Thought, Rhythm of Song (2009).

As she taught and administered the MFA program, Voigt kept writing. Collected Poems contains 187 poems, following the progression of her previous books.

Even for a reader who knows those individual books well, reading straight through the volume is newly exhilarating. There are enduring consistencies in this poet’s work across the years, both in subject matter and style: a distinctive austerity of manner that never sounds detached and a quietly spectacular precision with adjectives. Yet with each successive book, a reader will see (and hear) departures from what preceded.

What was it like for Voigt to see the work of a lifetime assembled in one volume?

“I’m very glad when readers recognize that despite the continuity, I was trying to do something different every time,” she said. “This was very purposeful. I had no interest in repeating myself. That would be boring for me, and it’s too risky. I can get fixated in a position very easily.”

Many writers are reluctant to attempt a way of writing in which they’re inexpert and might flounder. It’s characteristic of Voigt’s authorial nerve that she sees repeating herself as the greater danger.

In Collected Poems , Voigt’s writing keeps evolving alongside recurring

subject matter: family joys and griefs, music, the solace and violence of nature, physical passion, the interplay of myth and actuality.

Her exploration of the role of narrative in a lyric, for instance, is a running argument. How much of an overt “story” do you need for a reader to enter the world of the poem? In Voigt’s work, there is always an implication of story — a familial situation, perceivable location, emotional drama — but over time her poems have become less expository and more suggestive, as though she trusts the reader to pay attention.

In compiling Collected Poems, “There were decisions I had to make: what to include, what not to include,” she told me. “Anything that didn’t get into this book, we’re gonna burn. I don’t want anything escaping!”

Voigt’s daughter, Dudley, present for the interview, helped with that process. She said she and her mother began by going through Voigt’s papers to prepare them for an archive at the Library of Virginia. “That was our original pandemic project.” They consulted by Zoom with Michael Collier, longtime Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference director and Voigt’s literary executor.

“We’d just take out a box. Real letters, real drafts,” Dudley recalled. “She had organized much of this by book, yet some things never ended up in a book but instead in a pile or folder of loose items … Then when you got started on the Collected,” she said to her mother, “I think you already had a sense of what would go in that burn pile.”

“Yes,” Voigt said. “We would find various drafts. There were even a couple that had been published, and I had mined or cannibalized them. I had taken images from these and used them in later poems that I thought were stronger.”

In Collected Poems, older and newer works address one another across the years, with certain figures of speech, metaphors and personages reprised and reexamined.

Some of Voigt’s books feature fictional characters, but she has also written about the people in her life: parents, siblings, husband, children, neighbors.

Asked what she would say to a less experienced writer about the difficulties of portraying real people, she said, “I think you just have to plow ahead.” Though others, such as relatives, might

I HAD NO INTEREST IN REPEATING MYSELF. THAT WOULD BE BORING FOR ME, AND IT’S TOO RISKY.

ELLEN BRYANT VOIGT

Aphotographer’s image of war captures a moment in a way that words cannot — sometimes because the tragedy is indescribable. While the image is the product of an eye, it’s easy to forget that it was also the work of an “I,” a witness whose action in that desperate moment was simply to document it. What is it like to return from war with disturbing knowledge that can’t be unknown, horrific visions that can’t be unseen — and the question of whether one’s work contributed to the cause of peace or merely amplified suffering?

These are some of the questions dramatized in Donald Margulies’ 2009 play Time Stands Still. Green Room Productions has been staging the play in Warren and Waterbury since mid-August with Joanne Greenberg directing. The run of performances ends at Burlington’s Off Center for the Dramatic Arts on Friday and Saturday, September 22 and 23.

Set during the U.S. military campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq in the early 2000s — aka the war on terror — the play explores war’s effects on a journalist couple who met in the embattled Middle East and now find themselves trying to maintain their bond back in Brooklyn.

The play opens with photojournalist Sarah, played by Maren Langdon Spillane, returning from Iraq, where she was badly injured by a roadside bomb that killed her fixer, Tariq. Bearing facial scars and using a crutch, she is assisted by her longtime partner, James (Eric Reid-St. John). He’s a reporter whose own war zone trauma compelled him to return a few months before Sarah did. The companions’ joint reentry to what should be a comfortable domestic sphere is noticeably stiff, like Sarah’s battered body, implying some relationship rehab ahead.

The play soon reveals one of the obstacles to a more exuberant reunion: James’ guilt at having been absent when Sarah was hurt and during her early recovery abroad. The couple’s physical and psychological wounds soon expose deeper divisions that will take time to heal. The plot unfolds not so much as the pursuit of a central question as a series of discoveries the characters make — about themselves and each other — as they recover from trauma, grapple with the ethics of their work and survive life during wartime in consequentially different ways.

The cohabitation becomes claustrophobic — especially for Sarah, as James overdoes the doting. That mood is enhanced by a set, the handiwork of Johno Landsman, that simulates a believable Williamsburg apartment in size and adornment. A single room with a sideboard, a couch, and a small dining table and chairs conjures a coziness that inevitably degrades into that

Battle Lines

Theater review: Time Stands Still, Green Room Productions

BY ERIK ESCKILSEN

the actor makes his intrusions subtle enough to be convincing yet strong enough to be annoying.

Most importantly, Langdon Spillane and Reid-St. John make Sarah and James a believable couple; they do seem to belong together, even if circumstances make that difficult.

Supporting players Richard and Mandy restore a sense of local culture to their friends’ globally enmeshed lives. While their relationship comes across as more superficial than Richard assures Sarah and James it is, it offers a glimpse of the carefree life from which the journalists walked away.

Hennessey brings energy and charisma to his portrayal of the photo editor, working the room with the confidence of someone with the pull to get his friends’ work into print. He’s a welcome, warm presence. If Richard has a professional agenda, it’s linked to his concern for his friends’ wellbeing. In return, they openly question his relationship judgment.

feeling of confinement familiar to coopedup urbanites.

These living conditions are primed for interpersonal fireworks as Sarah and James confront their past, present and complicated future together. The arrival of two other characters, Sarah and James’ editor,

down a gradual path toward truth telling. As in offstage relationships, the truths that characters share must be well earned — and well timed. Connecting is especially complicated for Sarah and James, who are trying to reconcile with themselves while figuring out how to stay together. Under

As Mandy, Redington operates within a narrower range of possibilities. We are led to expect little insight from her bubbly persona. At the risk of a spoiler: While Mandy’s journey over the course of Time Stands Still doesn’t carry her out of her urban comfort zone, she nevertheless grows. Redington enacts this growth with a composure that belies her character’s seeming flightiness. Mandy, initially dismissed, won’t be denied in telling her own truth.

The characters in Time Stands Still are a highly reflective group. Each has their own deeply considered take on the state of the world from which they generate credible conversations and debates. At times, this production captures the pace of everyday human interaction too accurately, the emotional roller coaster hitting the occasional quagmire. As in the war on terror that occasions this story, the play’s objectives are opaque, its characters forging their way toward important decisions beat by beat.

Richard (Chris Hennessey); and Richard’s girlfriend, Mandy (Maya Redington), leavens the mood.

Many years younger than Richard and an event planner by profession, Mandy comes off looking callow and naïve in these lighter moments — “a lightweight,” as Sarah calls her. The laughs Mandy generates are at her own expense, offering brief respite from the tension that energizes the action and triggers ready arguments and snark. The stage might resemble an episode of “Friends,” but Time Stands Still is very much in the tradition of such bourgeois cage-match dramas as Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Margulies’ script sends these characters

Greenberg’s deft direction, Langdon Spillane and Reid-St. John realize this material with nuance and sensitivity, both in the play’s high emotional register and in its quieter, more intimate passages.

Langdon Spillane shows her acting range in expressing multifaceted suffering. Sarah’s surface pain — her damaged body — is merely the bandage covering bereavement, guilt, self-loathing and other complex emotions. Reid-St. John matches Langdon Spillane’s simmering, volatile Sarah with a turn that shows James as alternately shaken by war, committed to the righteousness of his work and avoidant of a confrontation with his wounds. In the caretaker’s role, James can be a bit of a mansplainer, and

Time Stands Still tracks journeys both geographical and emotional, the two commingling to illuminate the challenge of reconciling a world at war with the privilege of living in peace. One need not be a journalist filing frontline dispatches to relate to this tension. This potent production generates a palpable sense of complicity, leaving us to consider what it all has to do with us. ➆

INFO

Time Stands Still by Donald Margulies, directed by Joanne Greenberg, produced by Green Room Productions. Friday, September 22, 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, September 23, 2 and 7:30 p.m., at Off Center for the Dramatic Arts in Burlington. $20. offcentervt.com

AS IN THE WAR ON TERROR, THE PLAY’S OBJECTIVES ARE OPAQUE, ITS CHARACTERS FORGING THEIR WAY TOWARD IMPORTANT DECISIONS BEAT BY BEAT.

Maren Langdon Spillane in Time Stands Still

COURTESY OF DOMINIC SPILLANE

question the veracity or even morality of your creation, “You have to say what you believe … and explain to them or try and help them understand that this is what writers do. You know it’s not the whole truth.

“I mean, my sister swears up and down, ‘Oh, no, you’ve got that wrong,’” Voigt continued. “They read a poem or a story like they read the newspaper — they read for information, for ‘content.’ But feeling can also be content” — especially in a lyric poem.

Voigt’s book Kyrie, published in 1995 and her best-selling single volume, is a poetic oratorio about the 1918 worldwide influenza epidemic. It creates an imagined chorus in a series of 58 sonnets that now reverberate with fresh meaning.

Where did the idea for that book originate?

“Well,” she said and paused. “In my teaching, I always say, ‘It doesn’t really matter where your subjects come from. They are your subjects, and they will be, probably, your life subjects. And what you’re looking for is an excuse to investigate them again — something that will create a formal challenge. Then that’s what you go and work on.”

When Voigt began writing Kyrie , she said, “there was a pandemic here, too, or at least an epidemic, which was the AIDS crisis. That was part of my influence.”

Another was “family stories, which are just part of your DNA. You’ve heard them forever. You will hear them again. And they’re just ‘facts.’ One of the facts I know is that my father’s mother had died, ‘probably in childbirth.’ That was the phrase they used. And it was right around the time of the 1918 pandemic. My father was sent off to live with cousins, who were 19 years old. My father was 8.

“Off he went. And he never got over it, which we all knew.”

In a poem called “The Art of Distance,” she calls her father “a stoic… a steward” and recalls seeing him weep discreetly:

He’d stand alone in the field like a rogue pine that had escaped the scythe, as he would stand beside the family graves, a short important distance from the car where we were hushed until the white flag had been unpocketed, and he jangled his keys and got back in, not ever looking at us…

LESSON

Whenever my mother, who taught small children forty years, asked a question, she already knew the answer.

“Would you like to” meant you would. “Shall we” was another, and “Don’t you think.”

As in, “Don’t you think it’s time you cut your hair.”

So when, in the bare room, in the strict bed, she said “You want to see?” her hands were busy at her neckline, untying the robe, not looking down at it, stitches bristling where the breast had been, but straight at me.

I did what I always did: not weep — she never wept — and made my face a freshly white-washed wall: let her write, again, whatever she wanted there.

Reprinted from Collected Poems by Ellen Bryant Voigt. Copyright © 2023 by Ellen Bryant Voigt. Used with permission of the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

“But what had happened to him didn’t mean anything to me until I had a son,” Voigt said. “When my son turned 8, I looked at him one day and I thought, Oh! This is what that was. So that’s what really prompted the poems of Kyrie. ”

As always, she approached the work as “a formal problem to be solved … I was very worried about sentimentality,” Voigt said. “I thought, This is almost too much pathos . But I thought the sonnet form was a way to try and contain that. Compression was very important.”

Having made eight smaller collections tremendously carefully, poem by poem over nearly 50 years, the poet has asked and answered another of her challenging formal questions with Collected Poems. What happens if you gather all of those books together, side by side and one after another, and allow their lines to flow like a river of words for the reader to plunge into?

A record of time, Voigt’s Collected Poems will also be a necessary, valuable companion in the time to come. ➆

INFO

Collected Poems by Ellen Bryant Voigt, W.W. Norton, 496 pages. $30. Voigt reads with Sydney Lea on Thursday, September 21, 7 p.m., at the Norwich Bookstore. Her reading at the 2023 Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference can be heard online.

Kindness Will Save the World: Stories of Compassion and Connection

James Crews, Mandala Publishing, 208 pages. $22.50.

Short Takes on Five Vermont Books

Seven Days writers can’t possibly read, much less review, all the books that arrive in a steady stream by post, email and, in one memorable case, a choir of cicadas. So this occasional feature is our way of introducing you to a handful of books by Vermont authors. To do that, we contextualize each book just a little and quote a single representative sentence from, yes, page 32. ➆

Leathers studied his coat rack, as if measuring the bygone years by the garments which had once hung there.

e chore of rinsing and filling your husband’s thermos. A neighbor offering an extra doughnut.

Motivational graffiti on an overpass. All become opportunities for gratitude and compassion in poet, author and mindfulness workshop leader James Crews’ essay collection, born from the “kindness journal” he kept during the pandemic.

ere’s nothing earth-shattering here, and that’s Crews’ point. In short narratives pulled from his own life — most are less than two pages — he invites the reader to look at the mundane and respond with kindness. Best read in small bites, the collection includes prompts for practicing kindness and reflecting on connection. “Imagine if we gave the people in our lives the benefit of the doubt, believing in their needs,” the Shaftsbury resident muses.

Most of us want to feel more hopeful about the state of the world, but it’s easy to meet suggestions like these with derision. Could kindness save the world? I don’t know, but I have yet to see “Cynicism will change the world” on a bumper sticker.

ANGELA SIMPSON

Salvatore Slocum gets quite the surprise after a meeting with his enigmatic boss, Burt Leathers, in this novel that mixes office comedy with elements of mystery and noir Leathers’ memory vanished 30 years ago in a blinding flash of light, an accident that left him with a powerful persuasive ability and an uncanny intuition that helped him build a self-improvement company called True North. Now, seemingly out of nowhere, Leathers steps down and appoints Salvatore the new boss. What Salvatore doesn’t know is that someone is heading inexorably toward True North’s headquarters with a gun and revenge on his mind.

Vermont-based author DeVallance has a knack for using the absurdity of work culture and quirky, clipped dialogue to great effect. True North has its share of twists, and DeVallance obfuscates the turns with skill and a sense of casualness that permeates the narrative, making for an intriguing read with just the right amount of the bizarre.

CHRIS FARNSWORTH

Year of No Garbage: Recycling Lies, Plastic Problems, and One Woman’s Trashy Journey to Zero Waste

Eve O. Schaub, Skyhorse Publishing, 248 pages. $16.99.

Frankenstein combinations of materials … are not only ubiquitous, but also … inherently evil, unrecyclable landfill fodder.

Eve O. Schaub takes her New Year’s resolutions seriously. e Pawlet author of Year of No Clutter and Year of No Sugar meets her hardest task yet with Year of No Garbage. For 365 days, Schaub and her family vowed to throw away nothing: no food packaging, no junk mail and definitely nothing as superfluous as paper towels. Items could only be reused, recycled, composted, donated or sold.

Schaub writes with selfawareness and a healthy dose of humor. Part memoir and part how-to guide, the book takes readers through the triumphs and trials of living with zero waste, as Schaub chips away at the “looming pile of crap” in her kitchen and attempts the near-impossible task of grocery shopping. As she puts it, “If I don’t care about where this peanut butter wrapper or orange net ends up … who will?”

To find out if she succeeds, consider buying the book electronically or used.

HANNAH FEUER

Homeslice: Monologues of Millennialhood

Dayton J. Shafer, Alternating Current Press, 78 pages. $14.99.

She leaned down, & much too young even to know what was happening, you found yourself looking down her blouse.

Poet, Hunger Mountain managing editor and former Vermont Studio Center fellow Dayton J. Shafer has a fantastic eye for detail. e 10 prose poems in his debut chapbook ripple with high-definition imagery, from the “silken blanket corners” that a young Shafer stuffs in his ears to block out his parents’ fighting to the “half-people huddled in corners crying” in his high school hallways after September 11.

It’s a specificity that sometimes detracts from Homeslice’s stated purpose to serve as a polemic on all the anxieties and hot-button issues of the “elder millennial” micro-generation: those born between 1981 and 1985. But the vivid descriptions and the collection’s unique format — the poems are narrated in the second person and designed to be performed onstage, with an audience intoning the variations of “Is your American dream ___?” that begin and end each passage — are reason enough to pick up this quick read.

EMILY HAMILTON

e Sweet and Innocent Little Children’s Book of Cannibalism Julia Z, Dorrance Publishing, 68 pages. $30.

Next to her, I sometimes think / What am I, chopped liver?

Now, there’s an expression rarely taken literally. But if your kids are less inclined to the syrupy sermonizing of the Berenstain Bears than to the macabre musings of Edward Gorey, this children’s book of unusual appetites may be right up their dark alley.

Vermont author and artist Julia Z wrote and illustrated this book as a quarantine project. As she wrote in a 2021 Kickstarter campaign, “ ere’s a lot of scary, depressing, cruel, and selfish stuff going on in the world ... Maybe a couple people will enjoy my mostly harmless book despite all that.”

Some of the book’s advanced vocabulary — “ambergris,” “benignant,” “epicure,” “concupiscent” — will fly over the heads of younger readers and many adults. But Z’s rhyme and cadence, coupled with her playfully creepy illustrations, make it a delight to read aloud. One caveat: Given its grim gustatory gist, this one might be better served before dinner rather than at bedtime. As Z puts it, “Eat your carrots before they eat you.”

KEN PICARD

Savor this daily task because you never know how many times you’ll get to do it.

True North Randall DeVallance, Beacon Publishing Group, 223 pages. $16.99.

Montpelier’s Lost Nation eater Returns to Its Home Stage for Sam & Jim in Hell

BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com

It’s been a rough two months, but Lost Nation eater’s Kathleen Keenan lives by the show business axiom: Come hell or high water, the show must go on. Now that the high water is gone, it’s time to bring on the hell.

On October 5, Lost Nation will debut Sam & Jim in Hell. e new comic drama by Roxbury playwright Jeanne Beckwith imagines Irish writers Samuel Beckett and James Joyce meeting in the afterlife, only to discover that it’s not everything they expected.

e fact that Sam & Jim in Hell is happening at all, let alone on schedule and on Lost Nation’s home stage in Montpelier City Hall, seems like a gift from heaven. On July 11, city hall, like much of the downtown, was inundated by historic flooding. Lost Nation lost 35 years’ worth of costumes, props, set pieces and organizational materials, which were stored in the basement of a nearby building.

“It feels like a miracle that we’re pulling this off,” said Keenan, Lost Nation’s producing artistic director, who’s also directing the play. “Finding places to rehearse is really tricky. All of the performance spaces in Montpelier have really been hit hard.”

Lost Nation was scheduled to open the musical e Addams Family about a week after the floodwaters hit. Rather than canceling, the production was hastily moved to the Barre Opera House for an abbreviated run. It was important that they salvage the show, Keenan said, in part because 12 members of the cast and crew were students, ages 12 to 21, participating in a professional theater production training program. She described the audience’s response as “electric.”

“It really did mean something to people,” Keenan added. “ ey wanted to laugh. ey wanted this escape. ey wanted to say, ‘Yes! We are overcoming!’”

For Keenan herself, the flood packed a “triple whammy.” In addition to the damage to Lost Nation’s building and storage facility, Keenan’s home on Elm Street was also underwater and had to be evacuated. (Her family has since returned.) As she put it, “It was almost good to have a theater to manage, to take our minds off what was happening at our house.”

As of last week, Lost Nation still had some serious cleanup to do, including

removing an abandoned set for e Addams Family. But by the time the curtain rises on Sam & Jim in Hell, audience members shouldn’t notice many differences.

For those who can make it inside, that is. City hall’s elevator got “annihilated” by the flood and has yet to be repaired, Keenan said. To meet the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act, Lost Nation will live stream the show for those who cannot climb the steps to the auditorium.

“It really breaks my heart,” she said.

“I’ve spent my entire professional career mounting shows in fully accessible stages. But we have an emergency situation on our hands.”

INFO

Sam & Jim in Hell, by Jeanne Beckwith, directed by Kathleen Keenan, produced by Lost Nation eater. October 5 through 22: ursday through Saturday 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m., at Montpelier City Hall. $10-30. lostnationtheater.org

Materials from Lost Nation eater’s storage facility going into a dumpster post-flood

Don’t turn mailboxes into baseballs, Don’t get busted for selling at 17, Most thoughts deserve two or three more, Motor oil is motor oil, just keep your engine clean. Keep your eyes on the prize, everything will be ne, Long as you stay in school, stay o the hard stu , and keep between the lines.

— STURGILL SIMPSON “KEEP IT BETWEEN THE LINES” A SAILOR’S GUIDE TO EARTH

on screen

Lily Gladstone is having a moment. The actor was raised on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana and shone in her roles in Kelly Reichardt’s Certain Women and First Cow. This year, Gladstone stars in Martin Scorsese’s highly touted Killers of the Flower Moon, coming in October; and Fancy Dance, one of the nominees for the Sundance Film Festival’s Grand Jury Prize. And you can see her right now in an excellent rural road movie that premiered last year at SXSW: Morrisa Maltz’s The Unknown Country, available for rent on various platforms.

The deal

The Unknown Country ★★★★★ REVIEW

It’s snowing in Minnesota as Tana (Gladstone) carefully removes the handicapped tag from her rearview mirror. The small action speaks volumes: Tana has just lost her beloved grandmother, whose caretaker she was. Now, she drives — west through the snow to Spearfish, S.D., to attend the wedding of her Oglala Lakota cousin, Lainey (Lainey Bearkiller Shangreaux). They visit the reservation, where Grandpa August (Richard Ray Whitman) tells Tana stories about her grandma’s roving youth. From there, Tana heads down to Texas, hoping to find the site pictured in a haunting photo her grandmother left behind.

Will you like it?

The Unknown Country is not a plot-driven movie or one with conventional beats. For the first half hour or so, Tana barely utters a word. Not until late in the film, among friendly strangers in Dallas, does she open up about why she’s on the road and what her grandmother meant to her.

Moody silence can be alienating in indie films when it feels like a too-coolfor-school attitude, a deliberate withholding of the emotional grounding we need to care about the story. That’s not the case here, though, for two reasons. First, Gladstone barely needs any dialogue to show us who her character is. We get our emotional grounding from Tana’s wariness in a dark gas station, from the care with which she smooths her grandmother’s blanket in a flashback, from her joy as she plays with her cousin’s daughter.

Second, the movie isn’t just about Tana but about the people she meets on her long journey. Early in the film, passing through Deadwood, S.D., Tana stops at a diner with a warm, chatty server named Pam. Suddenly we find ourselves in Pam’s

home, meeting her rescue cats, as she tells her story in voice-over.

In these scenes, The Unknown Country veers from drama into documentary. The server, Pamela Jo Richter, is a real person who died since the film was shot and to whom it is dedicated, yet her tale has the pleasant roundedness of a good short story. We get similar glimpses into the lives of other walk-on characters, such as the proprietor of the motel where Tana stays and the gas station attendant who sells her matches.

One of these people, the owner of a Dallas retro dance hall, sums up a common theme of all these testimonies: Everyone needs a passion in life, something to live for. For the dance hall owner, it’s giving an elderly dynamo named Flo (Florence R. Perrin) a place to two-step. For Tana’s cousin Lainey, it’s her husband and daughter (Jasmine Shangreaux), who’s just old enough to narrate her own story: “I am Native American,” she proudly tells the camera.

A lesser film might have presented Tana’s brief encounters with these people as overt lessons for her, reminders that she needs to work through her grief and find a new guiding principle for her life. In The Unknown Country, they’re simply part of the rich human tapestry of life on the road.

Director Maltz told the Austin Chronicle that one inspiration for the film was her own thousand-mile commute from her Dallas home to Spearfish, where her paleontologist partner was on a dig. Her intimate knowledge of the route shows in the driving scenes, which capture the hypnotic monotony of a cross-country trek: the watercolor reflections of taillights smeared across the windshield; the dreamy indie rock soundtrack alternating with a dissonant soundscape of talk radio, which grows angrier and more intrusive as Tana travels south.

Without overt messaging, The Unknown Country says plenty about living in the maelstrom of 2020 America. The film o ers a counterpoint to the acrimony on the radio in the steadiness of Grandpa August, who reconnects Tana with her forebears and puts her on the path to a stunning journey’s end.

The movie has one of the most beautifully executed last scenes I’ve seen in a while, but I would never have known about it if I hadn’t specifically searched for newly streaming fare. As Gladstone and Maltz pointed out in an interview on RogerEbert. com, residents of rural areas are the least likely to hear about indie films, even when those films depict people like them with

humor and sensitivity, as this one does. The Unknown Country is worth exploring.

MARGOT HARRISON

margot@sevendaysvt.com

IF YOU LIKE THIS, TRY...

CERTAIN WOMEN (2016; AMC+, Criterion Channel, Kanopy, IFC Films Unlimited, Tubi, Pluto TV, plex, rentable): Maltz has said she knew she wanted Gladstone for e Unknown Country after seeing her in Reichardt’s ensemble film. Reviewing it, I wrote that “Gladstone’s character exhibits a quality that no one else in the film has: the exuberance of youth and hope.”

“RESERVATION DOGS” (three seasons, 2021 to present; Hulu): Gladstone also appears on this wonderful Indigenousmade comedy-drama series about four teens in the Muscogee Nation.

NOMADLAND (2020; Hulu, rentable): Chloé Zhao’s Best Picture-winning drama is a spiritual sibling to The Unknown Country: Both are low-key, vibe-rich road movies that incorporate documentary elements.

Lily Gladstone plays a young woman who reconnects with her Oglala Lakota family in a powerful indie road movie. COURTESY OF MUSIC BOX FILMS

NEW IN THEATERS

EXPEND4BLES: In the fourth installment of the ensemble action series, Jason Statham, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren and 50 Cent battle terrorists once again. Scott Waugh (Need for Speed) directed. (103 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Palace, Star, Sunset)

IT LIVES INSIDE: A teen (Megan Suri) must embrace her Indian heritage to fight the demon possessing her friend in this horror flick from director Bishal Dutta, also starring Neeru Bajwa and Mohana Krishnan. (99 min, PG-13. Majestic)

CURRENTLY PLAYING

ARISTOTLE AND DANTE DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE UNIVERSEHHH1/2 Two Mexican American teens find friendship in this adaptation of Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s novel. (96 min, PG-13. Palace)

BARBIEHHHH Margot Robbie plays the Mattel toy as she experiences her first-ever existential crisis. (114 min, PG-13. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Palace, Roxy, Savoy, Stowe, Sunset; reviewed 7/26)

BLUE BEETLEHHH An alien scarab transforms a teenager (Xolo Maridueña) into a superhero in this action adventure. (127 min, PG-13. Majestic)

BOTTOMSHHHH Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri play lovelorn high school friends who hatch a wild scheme to get close to their crushes in this comedy from Emma Seligman (Shiva Baby). (91 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Roxy, Stowe; reviewed 9/13)

THE EQUALIZER 3HHH Denzel Washington is back as the former government assassin in Antoine Fuqua’s action thriller. (109 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Palace, Roxy, Sunset, Welden)

GOLDAHH1/2 Helen Mirren plays Golda Meir, former prime minister of Israel, in this drama about the Yom Kippur War. (100 min, PG-13. Palace)

GRAN TURISMOHH1/2 A teen (Archie Madekwe) transfers his video game prowess to professional car racing in this fact-inspired action drama. (135 min, PG-13. Big Picture)

A HAUNTING IN VENICEHHH Kenneth Branagh returns as detective Hercule Poirot in this Agatha Christie adaptation. (103 min, PG-13. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Palace, Paramount, Playhouse, Star, Sunset)

THE INVENTORHHH1/2 Stephen Fry voices

Leonardo da Vinci in this animation about the Renaissance innovator. (92 min, PG. Palace)

JAWAN: Atlee directed this Hindi action thriller about a man seeking justice, starring Shah Rukh Khan. (169 min, NR, Majestic)

JULESHHH Ben Kingsley plays a man who befriends an alien he finds in his backyard in this drama from Marc Turtletaub. (90 min, PG-13. Savoy)

MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 3HH Nia Vardalos (who also directed) and John Corbett return as a couple bringing their grown daughter to Greece for a family reunion. (91 min, PG-13. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Palace, Roxy, Stowe, Welden)

NO HARD FEELINGSHHH A down-on-her-luck woman (Jennifer Lawrence) is hired by a 19-yearold’s parents to bring him out of his shell in this comedy. (103 min, R. Sunset)

THE NUN IIHH1/2 Taissa Farmiga is back as a plucky nun chasing down a veil-wearing demon in this belated horror sequel. (110 min, R. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Palace, Paramount, Roxy, Star, Welden)

OPPENHEIMERHHHHH Director Christopher Nolan tells the story of the man (Cillian Murphy) who played a key role in creating the atomic bomb. (180 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Palace, Roxy; reviewed 8/2)

THE RETIREMENT PLAN: Nicolas Cage plays a tough guy turned beach bum who comes out of retirement to get his daughter out of a jam in Tim Brown’s action comedy. (103 min, R. Palace, Star)

STRAYSHH1/2 Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx voice candid canines in this not-for-kids comedy. (93 min, R. Sunset)

TALK TO MEHHH1/2 A group of friends uses an embalmed hand to conjure spirits in this horror thriller. (94 min, R. Sunset; reviewed 8/8)

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANT

MAYHEMHHH1/2 Cowriter Seth Rogen and directors Jeff Rowe and Kyler Spears reboot the comic-based series. (99 min, PG. Essex, Majestic)

THEATER CAMPHHH1/2 A staff of thespians must make an unusual alliance to save their beloved summer retreat in this comedy starring Ben Platt. (92 min, PG-13. Savoy)

OLDER FILMS AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS

FATHOM’S BIG SCREEN CLASSICS: RAIN MAN

35TH ANNIVERSARY (Essex, Wed 20 only)

GKIDS PRESENTS STUDIO GHIBLI FEST 2023:

HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE (Essex, Sat-Mon & Wed 27 only)

HAUNTED MANSION (Sunset)

THE HILL (Star)

SOUND OF FREEDOM (Marquis)

OPEN THEATERS

The Capitol Showplace and Catamount Arts are currently closed until further notice. (* = upcoming schedule for theater was not available at press time)

*BIG PICTURE THEATER: 48 Carroll Rd., Waitsfield, 496-8994, bigpicturetheater.info

*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

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

*MERRILL’S ROXY CINEMAS: 222 College St., Burlington, 864-3456, merrilltheatres.net

PALACE 9 CINEMAS: 10 Fayette Dr., South Burlington, 864-5610, palace9.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, 229-0598, savoytheater.com

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

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

SUNSET DRIVE-IN: 155 Porters Point Rd., Colchester, 862-1800, sunsetdrivein.com

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

AAA TRAVEL

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Sylvester Stallone in Expend4bles

A modern mens store and tailor shop located in Downtown Rutland for over 65 years. Stocked with the largest selection of suits and sport coats in Vermont, from entry level suiting to custom Italian wools. All backed by three generations of the McNeil family’s legendary customer service.

Timeless style meets old school customer service

Making Connections

Remnants of the past coalesce with contemporary work in “Art at the Kent”

STORY & PHOTOS BY AMY LILLY • lilly@sevendaysvt.com

Planning and executing the monthlong “Art at the Kent” exhibition in Calais has become a year-round project for cocurators Allyson Evans and Nel Emlen. Often with Vermont state curator David Schutz, the curators visit dozens of Vermont artists’ studios every year and select a new group to show in the semi-restored 19th-century building — no one appears more than once. Then they thoughtfully place the artworks on the building’s grounds and in its warren of rooms with wavy-paned windows, unique doors, fireplaces and rich arrays of unfinished wall textures.

Describing how the annual show has evolved since it began 16 years ago, Emlen joked, “It’s like having kids: I had no idea it would be this time-consuming.” During a recent visit, she and Evans were even busier than usual, preparing to host their first party for all the artists who’d been

exhibited over the years. That number has now surpassed 260.

This year’s show, called “Traces,” features 23 new artists — far too many to be mentioned in this space but all worth seeing, particularly in the curators’ considered arrangements of works by multiple artists in each room. Large archival-pigment prints of lichen by Brandon photographer Don Ross, for example, are paired in one room with Brattleboro kinetic sculptor Bruce Campbell’s small wire butterfly with movable wings. A giant opened milkweed pod of steel and gold leaf — an outdoor sculpture by Sabrina Fadial of South Barre — can be glimpsed through the windows. The three form a trio of evanescence. Everywhere one looks in “Traces,” similarly delightful groupings and views coalesce.

Emlen and Evans arrive at each show’s

theme organically, hashing out the feel of the chosen work with author Mary Elder Jacobsen until they collectively arrive at a verbalization. (Jacobsen coordinates

Sunday readings by Vermont authors at Calais’ Old West Church, a series held in tandem with the exhibition.)

The theme of “traces” reflects many of the artists’ approaches, including the two whose work greets visitors in the entrance hallway.

of

Barre artist Athena Petra Tasiopoulos’ pale paper-inencaustic abstractions reference the memories embodied in tangible fragments such as semi-demolished buildings and Greek ruins, according to her artist’s statement. And Bunny Harvey’s paintings are often landscapes filled with visual traces of the

“Milkweed” by Sabrina Fadial with Kents’ Corner State Historic Site in the background

Coin chair by Johnny Swing

sounds that permeate them. In the case of her “Listening, You See,” a horizontal diptych some 11 feet wide, those sounds include breezes, birds, cows, crickets and the helicopters that regularly fly over the Tunbridge artist’s studio.

Palimpsestic traces of writing cover some of the exquisitely crafted jewelry boxes by Burlington wood artist Erin Hanley. On one, a lid of black walnut is etched with equations; another of bubinga (African rosewood) is covered in hashed lines and inscrutable writing — fragments of a Richard Wilbur poem — filled with gold mica powder. In Hanley’s newest venture, wall-hung works in wood, she experiments with more geometrically organized marks and lines, including the grid-like weave of “Snakey Zebra.”

Worms left their own kind of palimpsestic marks on a small, untitled sculpture the curators winkingly placed on a windowsill near Hanley’s boxes: a riddled slice of tree branch that Pownal’s Bill Botzow augmented with ink, wax crayon and watercolor. Botzow’s outdoor assembly of stick figures made from tree branches, titled “Shatterings,” is visible through the window.

The Kent itself is filled with traces of its former owners and history, and the curators often exploit aesthetic or amusing coincidences between those traces and the artworks. One of Campbell’s many beautifully crafted, crank-operated sculptures, titled “Game of Thrones,” allows visitors to rotate four miniature crenellated towers atop a cogged brass ring. The work sits in a room covered in wallpaper samples, perfectly positioned against the sample depicting a castle scene.

Similarly, “Coquelicots,” Stowe artist Marcie Scudder’s extravagant dress made from circular cutouts of photos of her mother’s poppies sewn together, is hung in a dramatic swirl in the Kent’s ballroom.

In many rooms, the walls are exposed lath. The horizontal strips of wood complement Burlington artist Susan Smereka’s “out?” — made from narrow strips of old book pages sewn together vertically; the effect is of one neutraltoned grid set against another.

West Brattleboro artist Larry Simons’ nested assemblages of found wood with original paint and metal work wherever they’re hung. But his vertically oriented “#93” benefits from its placement just above a door’s circular metal bell. Together, the two meticulously wrought objects form an exclamation point.

Color may have influenced some of the curators’ choices of placement. In

NEW THIS WEEK

chittenden county

‘THE FALL OF ADAM’: A group photography exhibition that explores the effects of technology on art and society. Reception: Sunday, October 8, 3-5 p.m. September 22-October 22. Info, 777-3686. Darkroom Gallery in Essex Junction.

barre/montpelier

EARL HENRY FOX: “Oblique Fixations,” a survey of recent work by the painter, woodworker and mixedmedia artist. By appointment. Reception: Friday, September 22, 6-8 p.m. September 22-November 17. Info, 720-215-9519. Grist Mill Studios in East Calais.

‘FRUITS OF THE FOREST FLOOR’: A juried, mushroom-themed group show with painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, fiber arts, ceramics, jewelry and more by New England artists. Reception: Saturday, September 23, 5-7 p.m., with live music, poetry readings and a taco truck. September 23-December 15. Info, chelsea@ northbranchnaturecenter.org. North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier.

stowe/smuggs

MARGARET JACOBS: New sculpture and jewelry by the multimedia artist and member of the Akwesasne Mohawk tribe. Reception: Friday, October 13, 6-7 p.m. September 27-November 29. Info, 635-2727. Red Mill Gallery, Vermont Studio Center, in Johnson.

middlebury area

CHELSEA GRANGER: “The Future Belongs to Ghosts,” a solo exhibition of paintings that grapple with grief, honor the dead and offer thanks. Reception: Friday, September 22, 5-7 p.m., with live music by Lowell Thompson. September 22-October 31. Info, 877-2173. Northern Daughters in Vergennes.

ART EVENTS

AMAZING MAKERS: HANNA SATTERLEE & CHRISTY

MITCHELL: A conversation with the Burlington visionaries and administrators, who are building inclusive spaces for artists to thrive in Vermont. Moderated by CHSP senior adviser Rosemary Branson Gill. Cold Hollow Sculpture Park, Enosburg Falls, Saturday, September 23, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 512-333-2119.

ART SOCIAL: A celebration of the new exhibitions and a chance to meet the artists, with live music by members of the Vermont Fiddle Orchestra led by Susan Reid. Studio Place Arts, Barre, Saturday, September 23, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Info, 479-7069.

BTV MARKET: An outdoor market featuring wares by local artists, makers, bakers and more, accompanied by live music and lawn games. Burlington City Hall Park, Saturday, September 23, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, 865-7166.

‘THE INVISIBLE LABOR’: A multicultural group art exhibit featuring works by 18 mothers, caregivers and nurturers, cocurated by Christine Mitchell Adams and Tina Picz. Firefolk Arts, Waitsfield, Saturday, September 23, 2-5 p.m. $1-20 suggested donation. Info, firefolkarts@gmail.com.

LECTURE: ‘VERMONT VS. HOLLYWOOD: 100 YEARS

OF VERMONT IN FILM’: Amanda Gustin of the Vermont Historical Society provides background and shares video clips of films from 1919’s Way Down East to 2005’s Thank You for Smoking Poultney Public Library, Saturday, September 23, noon. Free. Info, 287-5556.

OPEN STUDIO: Draw, collage, paint, move, write and explore the expressive arts however you please during this drop-in period. Available in studio and via Zoom. Most materials are available in the studio. All are welcome; no art experience necessary. Expressive Arts Burlington, Thursday, September 21, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Donations. Info, info@expressiveartsburlington.com.

REPAINTING THE WINOOSKI BRIDGE: Join artist Elizabeth Emmet and the creative community to refresh the mural under the Winooski Bridge. Arts So Wonderful provides supplies, water and hot dogs. Downtown Winooski, Saturday, September 23, and Sunday, September 24, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 307-8030.

RICHMOND ART CRAWL: A showcase of artworks in a variety of styles and mediums, plus kids’ activities and food. Richmond Town Hall, Sunday, September 24, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 324-9938.

VISITING ARTIST TALK: SARAH WALKER: The painter talks about her work, which proposes visual tools for experiencing multiple intersecting dimensions. Red Mill Gallery, Vermont Studio Center, Johnson, Friday, September 22, 8-9 p.m. Free. Info, 635-2727.

ONGOING ART SHOWS

burlington

‘60 YEARS OF BREAD & PUPPET’: Puppets, prints and banners by Peter Schumann, founder of the puppet theater group based in Glover. Through December 1. Info, hello@karmabirdhouse.com. Karma Bird House Gallery in Burlington.

‘ABENAKI: FIRST PEOPLE EXHIBITION’: The council and members of Alnôbaiwi (in the Abenaki way) and the museum open a new exhibition featuring the Abenaki Year, the seasonal calendar of people who lived in the area for more than 8,000 years before Europeans arrived, as well as works by contemporary Abenaki artisans and a replica of a 19th-century Abenaki village. Through October 31. Info, 865-4556. Ethan Allen Homestead in Burlington.

ADDISON BALE: New paintings whose gestural aesthetic takes inspiration from New York’s aging infrastructure, signage and detritus. Through November 5. Info, 917-846-1719. Foam Brewers in Burlington.

‘ART AND THE MATTER OF PLACE’: A small exhibition of works in the Wolcott Gallery that encourages critical thinking about place and why it matters.

‘PRAXIS’: An exhibition of recent work by more than a dozen studio art faculty at UVM in an array of mediums. Through December 8. Info, 656-0750. Fleming Museum of Art, University of Vermont, in Burlington.

ART AT THE HOSPITAL: Oil paintings by Louise Arnold and Jean Gerber and photographs by Mike Sipe (Main Street Connector, ACC 3); photographs on metal by Brian Drourr (McClure 4 ); acrylics and mixed-media painting by Linda Blackerby (Breast Care Center) and Colleen Murphy (EP2). Curated by Burlington City Arts. Through September 30. Info, 865-7296. University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.

ASHLEY ROARK: “All the Things,” cyanotype collages that explore objects as symbols by the Burlington artist. Through September 30. Info, 338-7441. Thirty-odd in Burlington.

CAROL MACDONALD: “Emergence (Coming to Light),” new monotypes by the Vermont artist. Through September 28. Info, 863-6458. Frog Hollow Vermont Craft Gallery in Burlington.

CAROLYN BATES: “Street Murals of Burlington,” photographs from a new book by the local professional photographer. Through October 31. Info, 862-5010.

First Congregational Church in Burlington.

‘HOW PEOPLE MAKE THINGS’: An installation inspired by the Mister Rogers’ factory tours includes hands-on activities in cutting, molding, deforming and assembly to show participants how certain childhood objects are manufactured. Through January 7. Info, 864-1848. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington.

KATE LONGMAID: Contemporary portraiture, still life and landscape paintings in oil and acrylic gouache

EXHIBITION

Elinor Randall’s Prints Leave ‘Deep Impressions’ at Studio Place Arts

BY PAMELA POLSTON • ppolston@sevendaysvt.com

horses. Randall had loved and cared for the animals since her girlhood; later they became allegorical in her work.

“Randy used the horse as a surrogate for women — she saw the ‘beast of burden’ aspect of women,” said Mark Waskow, who organized the exhibit with help from Randall’s daughter, Dorigen Keeney. “Maybe today it would be called feminist.”

Waskow is the founder of Northern New England Museum of Contemporary Art, or NNEMoCA. Its holdings comprise his own massive art collection, maintained in private spaces in Burlington and Barre. Since a brick-andmortar museum is still aspirational, Waskow said he intends to present occasional shows in local galleries. But the Randall exhibition resulted from another mission of NNEMoCA: to help aging artists — or, posthumously, their families — manage their extant work and legacy.

Waskow said he became acquainted with Keeney through a mutual friend and ended up organizing, cataloging and photographing a huge number of prints stored in Randall’s barn. “I suggested [to Keeney] we do a show or two,” Waskow said. “The first place was Studio Place Arts.”

When she attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Randall studied with Marshall Glasier, who helped introduce European modernism — particularly surrealism — to the American Midwest. (She later earned her BFA at Wayne State University in Detroit.) Glasier, in turn, was a disciple of the German American abstractexpressionist George Grosz. The influence of both these artists lingers in Randall’s work — though her magical-realist themes and compositions are all her own.

Waskow believes that Randall’s work is important for its content and its relationship to how she saw society. In addition, “she was pioneering in some of the etching and monoprints she did — she developed a multi-plate monoprint technique,” he said. “One has to appreciate her ability to use novel forms of perspective and integrate them into her images. The registration she could pull off was nothing short of amazing.”

Elinor Randall, known to her friends as Randy, passed away in July at the age of 91. Originally from Connecticut, she had lived in Plainfield since 1992. A master printer, Randall was a charter member of Two Rivers Printmaking Studio in White River Junction and active in local and national art organizations. Over decades, she exhibited widely. Through her own Rung Rim Press, Randall turned

out exacting works of art for friends and clients. And, of course, she created innumerable images of her own.

A current exhibition at Studio Place Arts in Barre presents 31 of Randall’s etchings, lithographs, lino block prints and monoprints. Aptly titled “Deep Impressions,” the survey puts on display not only her skill but also her fertile imagination and lifelong obsession with

What’s remarkable, too, is the poignancy and veneration that Randall delivered in strokes of ink. Call it equine-imity. ➆

INFO

“Deep Impressions: Elinor Randall, Master Printmaker,” on view through October 28 at Studio Place Arts in Barre. studioplacearts.com

“The Insect Palace Presides Once” (above) and “Wet Rack (Golden Gates Fields)” by Elinor Randall

by the Vermont artist. Through December 17. Info, 865-7296. BCA Center in Burlington.

‘ONGOING ABSTRACTION’: Contemporary artworks by Stacey Fisher, Andrew Kuo, Meg Lipke, Rachel Eulena Williams and Sun You; curated by Steve Budington, associate professor of painting and drawing. Reception: Wednesday, September 20, 4 p.m., followed by artist conversation in 301 Williams Hall at 5 p.m. Through September 29. Info, sbudingt@ uvm.edu. Francis Colburn Gallery, University of Vermont, in Burlington.

ROSA LEFF: “Blown Away,” familiar scenes of urban life in intricately cut paper. Through September 30. Info, 324-0014. Soapbox Arts in Burlington.

chittenden county

ART AT THE AIRPORT: Acrylic abstract paintings by Matt Larson and acrylic floral paintings by Sandra Berbeco, curated by Burlington City Arts. Through September 30. GABRIEL BORAY & COLOSSAL

SANDERS: Acrylic paintings of Vermont with a focus on cows, and satirical digital montage illustrations, respectively. Second-floor Skywalk.

Through December 5. JULIA PURINTON: Abstract oil paintings inspired by nature. North Concourse. Through February 29. Info, 865-7296. Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport in South Burlington.

BIRDS OF VERMONT EXHIBIT: An exhibit showcasing the history of birds in art, as well as a display of the tools a wood carver uses to create lifelike birds.

Through September 30. Info, 846-4140. South Burlington Public Library Art Wall.

‘BUILT FROM THE EARTH’: An exhibition of masterful Pueblo pottery from the Anthony and Teressa Perry Collection of Native American art. ‘OBJECT/S OF PLAY’: An interactive exploration of the creative processes of American toy designers Cas Holman and Karen Hewitt. ‘POP UP’: An exhibition of contemporary inflated sculptures inside and outside the museum featuring three artists and artist teams from the field of pneumatic sculpture: Claire Ashley, Pneuhaus and Tamar Ettun. (Outdoor sculptures not on view on days with excessive wind.) STEPHEN HUNECK: “Pet Friendly,” an exhibition of hand-carved and painted furniture, sculptures, relief paintings, bronze sculptures and more by the late Vermont artist. Through October 22. Info, 985-3346. Shelburne Museum.

CHRISTINE MITCHELL ADAMS: “I Am Your Playground,” drawings that explore the shifting sense of self and identity as a parent/caregiver within the lens of play. Through September 30. Info, christinemitchelladams@gmail.com. MATT

LARSON & NANCY CHAPMAN: Nature-inspired abstract paintings. Curated by Burlington City Arts. Through October 17. Info, 865-7296. Pierson Library in Shelburne.

DEBBA PEARCE: “Ethereal Landscapes,” paintings in alcohol inks. Through September 30. Info, 660-4999. Art Works Frame Shop & Gallery in South Burlington.

JENNIFER ASHLINE: An installation of landscape, floral and figurative works. Through September 24. Info, 662-4877. Salt & Bubbles Wine Bar and Market in Essex Junction.

JOSEPH SALERNO: “Inside & Out: Landscapes to Relics,” al fresco oil paintings by the Vermont artist. Through November 4. Info, 985-3848. Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery in Shelburne.

LARS JERLACH AND HELEN STRINGFELLOW:

“Tectonic industries: If you had followed the directive, you wouldn’t be here,” an immersive, multimedia installation transforming the gallery with painting, audio, video and sculptural elements. Through October 13. Info, bcollier@smcvt.edu. McCarthy Art Gallery, Saint Michael’s College, in Colchester.

‘LET THE LIGHT IN’: New paintings by Vermont artists Liz Hawkes deNiord, Joy Huckins-Noss, Jill Madden and Julia Purinton, curated by Essex High School student Xandra Ford. Through October 19. Info, gallery@southburlingtonvt.gov. South Burlington Public Art Gallery.

‘SPARK: FUELING A LOVE OF BIRDS’: An exhibition of works by more than 60 artists and writers expressing avian admiration. Through October 31. Info, 434-2167. Birds of Vermont Museum in Huntington.

TOM WATERS: “Reaching New Heights,” Vermont landscape paintings. Through September 24. Info, 899-3211. Emile A. Gruppe Gallery in Jericho.

barre/montpelier

ART AT THE KENT: ‘TRACES’: Nearly two dozen Vermont artists present works in wax, wood, paint, clay, fabric, metal and photographs in this annual exhibition. Through October 8. Info, thekentmuseum@gmail.com. Kents’ Corner State Historic Site in Calais.

DELIA ROBINSON: “Gravitational Reprieve,” imaginative works by the Montpelier artist, painted in response to Vermont floods. Through October 6. Info, robinson.delia@gmail.com. Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.

‘ELEMENTS OF SHELTER’: Original works in wood, metal and glass by Yestermorrow faculty members Thea Alvin, Meg Reinhold, Nick Pattis, Anna Fluri, Sophia Mickelson and Johno Landsman, in conjunction with the Waitsfield design/build school. Through May 31, 2025. Info, 828-3291. Vermont Arts Council Sculpture Garden in Montpelier.

‘ROCK SOLID XXIII’: An annual exhibition that showcases stone sculptures and assemblages by area artists, as well as other work that depicts the qualities of stone. Main-floor gallery. ELINOR

RANDALL: “Deep Impressions,” a survey of the master printmaker’s work 1954 to 2013. Curated by NNEMoCA. Second-floor gallery. KATE

ARSLAMBAKOVA: “Primordial,” paintings influenced by surrealism that bring the microscopic world into focus. Third-floor gallery. Through October 28. Info, 479-7069. Studio Place Arts in Barre.

‘ENOUGH SAID? COUNTING MASS SHOOTINGS’: An installation that addresses rampant gun violence in the U.S., featuring artworks by Susan Calza, Samantha M. Eckert and Felix Gonzalez-Torres.

Through November 30. Info, 224-6827. Susan Calza Gallery in Montpelier.

‘INSIDE OUT: INCARCERATION’: A traveling exhibition of artworks by imprisoned artists that explore the intersections of trauma, addiction, incarceration and reentry. A collaboration of Artists in the WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and Goddard College’s Reentry Advocates program. Through September 22. Info, 262-6035. T.W. Wood Gallery in Montpelier.

MARJORIE KRAMER: Portrait and landscape paintings by the gallery member. Through October 1. Info, marjkramer@gmail.com. The Front in Montpelier.

PREYA HOLLAND: Nature and landscape photography inspired by the beauty of Vermont and New England. Through September 30. Info, 479-0896. Espresso Bueno in Barre.

TRACEY HAMBLETON: “Barre Painted Fresh,” oil paintings of the city’s landmark buildings, granite quarries and hillside houses. Through October 15. Info, 249-3897. Vermont Granite Museum in Barre.

stowe/smuggs

JOE CHIRCHIRILLO: Recent sculptures by the southern Vermont-based artist and curator of the North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show. Through September 20. Info, 635-2727. Red Mill Gallery, Vermont Studio Center, in Johnson.

‘LAND & LIGHT & WATER & AIR’: The 16th annual group exhibition of landscape paintings featuring more than 90 regional artists. Through December 23. ‘NATURE’S ABSTRACTION’: A group exhibition of nature-inspired paintings that transcend traditional representation. Through November 5. LEGACY

COLLECTION: A showcase exhibition of paintings by gallery regulars as well as some newcomers. Through December 23. Info, 644-5100. Bryan Memorial Gallery in Jeffersonville.

‘A PLACE OF MEMORY’: An exhibition that questions public representation and how cultures and countries define their past through monuments, memorials and sculptural objects, featuring indoor and outdoor artwork by Woody De Othello, Nicholas Galanin, Vanessa German, Deborah Kass and Nyugen E. Smith. Through October 21. Info, 253-8358. The Current in Stowe.

SAMANTHA M. ECKERT: “The Color of the Sky Is Pink,” new sculpture and installation. Closing reception and artist’s talk: Thursday, September 28, 3 p.m. Through September 28. Info, 635-1469. Julian Scott Memorial Gallery, Vermont State University-Johnson.

SCOTT LENHARDT: An exhibition of graphic designs for Burton Snowboards created since 1994 by the Vermont native. Through October 31. Info, 253-9911. Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in Stowe.

VERMONT WATERCOLOR SOCIETY: Paintings by 20 watercolor artists. Through September 30. Info, 760-7396. Visions of Vermont in Jeffersonville.

mad river valley/waterbury

BANNERS ON BRIDGE STREET: Colorful double-sided banners painted with repurposed house paint by nine local artists decorate the street. Through October 15. Info, 496-3639. Waitsfield Village Bridge.

DENIS VERSWEYVELD: “Still Life,” sculpture, paintings and drawings by the Vermont artist. Through September 30. Info, 244-7801. Axel’s Frame Shop & Gallery in Waterbury.

GREEN MOUNTAIN PHOTO SHOW: The 33rd annual exhibition of works by professional and amateur photographers, local and national. Through October 8. Info, 496-6682. Red Barn Galleries, Lareau Farm, in Waitsfield.

‘THE MAD CONTEMPORARY’: An exhibition of cartoon artworks by more than a dozen Vermont artists. Through October 1. Info, 496-6682. Mad River Valley Arts Gallery in Waitsfield.

‘NOR’EASTER’: Paintings by Terry Ekasala, Rick Harlow and Craig Stockwell. By appointment. Through October 5. Info, 777-2713. The Bundy Modern in Waitsfield.

TRYSTAN BATES: “The Starling Symphony,” a five-part exhibition of abstract collage, sculpture, prints and mixed media that examines the ways in which we process, assimilate and store information. Through November 17. Info, joseph@thephoenixvt.com. The Phoenix in Waterbury.

middlebury area

‘THE DECISIVE MOMENT’: A group photography exhibition, juried by Aline Smithson, on the theme of the singular moment when motion and composition come together to create a unified whole. Through September 27. Info, 388-4500. PhotoPlace Gallery in Middlebury.

‘FINDING HOPE WITHIN’: Subtitled “Healing & Transformation Through the Making of Art Within the Carceral System,” an exhibition of artwork created by prisoners. Curated by A Revolutionary Press in partnership with Vermont Works for Women and others. Through October 14. Info, 877-3406. Rokeby Museum in Ferrisburgh.

‘FROM HOMESPUN TO COUTURE: FASHION IN HISTORIC MIDDLEBURY’: An exhibition featuring local advertisements, newspapers, fashion magazines, photographs, trade cards, catalogs and other documentation from the museum’s archives; curated by Eva Garcelon-Hart. Through January 13.

‘STELLAR STITCHING: 19TH CENTURY VERMONT SAMPLERS’: An exhibition of needlework samplers made by young girls in the 19th-century that depict alphabets, numerals and decorative elements.

Through January 13. ‘VARIETY SEW: A SAMPLING OF TEXTILE TOOLS AND DEVICES’: Sewing machines, spinning wheels and myriad sewing paraphernalia from the permanent collection. Through September 30. Info, 388-2117. Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History in Middlebury.

‘THE LIGHT OF THE LEVANT’: An exhibit of early photography in the late Ottoman Empire, which encompassed contemporary Greece, Turkey and most of the Arab world. ‘TOSSED’: Nearly 20 works that make use of found, discarded or repurposed materials, curated by museum exhibition designer Ken Pohlman. Through December 10. Info, 443-5007. Middlebury College Museum of Art.

‘MACRO | MICRO’: An exhibition of large and small works in a variety of mediums by more than 40 artists, featuring the monumental and the miniature.

Reception: Friday, September 22, 5-7 p.m. Through November 4. Info, 989-7225. Sparrow Art Supply in Middlebury.

MARGARET GERDING: “Capturing the Moments,” new paintings featuring coastal scenes and rural Vermont. Through September 26. Info, 989-7419. Edgewater Gallery on the Green in Middlebury.

PENNY BILLINGS AND HOLLY FRIESEN: “Nature’s Inner Light,” paintings of the New England and Québec landscape. Reception: Thursday, October 5, 5-6:30 p.m. Through November 15. Info, 989-7419. Edgewater Gallery at the Falls in Middlebury.

rutland/killington

‘ART IN THE GARDEN, COLOR ME HAPPY’: Garden-themed artworks by gallery members, with a featured wall of garden and floral art by Arlene O’Connor. Through September 22. Info, 775-0356. Chaffee Art Center in Rutland.

‘THE ART OF THE CREATIVE PROCESS’: An exhibition of sculpture, photography, painting, fabric art and illustration by Kerry Fulani, John Lehet, Amy Mosher, Judith Reilly and Ashley Wolff, respectively, as well as works by Vermont lighting design company Hubbardton Forge. Through October 8. Info, 468-2711. Stone Valley Arts in Poultney.

‘BROOM ART’: The inaugural exhibition in the new gallery features paintings and sculpture made with brooms by artists Warren Kimble, Sandy Mayo and Fran Bull. Through November 30. Info, 558-0874. Conant Square Gallery in Brandon.

NEW MEMBERS EXHIBITION: Fused-glass work by Garrett Sadler, wood crafts by Guy Rossi, landscape paintings by Brian Hewitt, pastel paintings of animals and nature by Lynn Austin, and sculpture and realist paintings by Liza Myers. Through October 31. Info, 247-4956. Brandon Artists Guild.

SCULPTFEST23: New works by 10 artists are sited along the new sculpture trail in this annual celebration of the medium. Through October 22. Info, 438-2097. The Carving Studio & Sculpture Center in West Rutland.

SHA’AN MOULIERT: “I Am VT Too, Rutland,” photographs of Rutland-area BIPOC residents and their stories, presented by the Root Social Justice Center and Rutland Area Branch of the NAACP. Panel discussion: Saturday, September 30, 1-2:30 p.m., at the Hub CoWorks, followed by reception at the gallery, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Through November 4. Info, cmm02180@castleton.edu. Vermont State University-Castleton Bank Gallery in Rutland.

champlain islands/northwest

TINA & TODD LOGAN: Acrylic paintings and 3D works, respectively, by the married artists. Through October 1. Info, 308-4230. Off the Rails at One Federal in St. Albans.

upper valley

ALINA PEREZ & AREL LISETTE: “Living Proof,” charcoal and pastel drawings that address the oscillation of health and illness, pain and resurrection. Through September 30. Info, 347-264-4808. Kishka Gallery & Library in White River Junction.

KUMARI PATRICIA YOUNCE: Landscape paintings in a sensory relationship with place and people. Artist talk: Friday, September 29, 6 p.m. Through October 28. Info, 738-0166. Jai Studios Gallery and Gifts in Windsor.

‘SANCTUARY’: A group exhibition of prints that address the theme by 15 studio members and friends. Through October 20. Info, 295-5901. Two Rivers Printmaking Studio in White River Junction.

SUSAN SMEREKA: “Family,” collaged prints by the Burlington artist. Through September 30. Info, 603-443-3017. Scavenger Gallery in White River Junction.

‘VERMONT FEMALE FARMERS’: Forty-five photographs by Plymouth-based JuanCarlos González that focus on the impactful contributions that women farmers are making to the state’s culture, identity UPPER VALLEY SHOWS »

and economy. Through October 31. Info, 457-2355. Carriage Barn Visitor Center, Marsh-BillingsRockefeller National Historic Park in Woodstock.

VERMONT PASTEL SOCIETY: A juried exhibition of paintings by 19 members of the artist group. Reception: Friday, October 6, 5-7 p.m. Through November 18. Info, 295-4567. Long River Gallery in White River Junction.

WILLIAM B. HOYT: “Moments Noticed,” landscape paintings in oil by the Vermont artist. Through September 23. Info, 457-3500. Artistree Community Arts Center in South Pomfret.

northeast kingdom

ANN YOUNG: Figurative paintings by the Vermont artist. Through September 30. Info, oliveylin1@gmail. com. 3rd Floor Gallery in Hardwick.

ANNE TAYLOR DAVIS: “Wonderland,” paintings and drawings, old and very new. Through September 24. Info, 533-2000. Highland Center for the Arts in Greensboro.

ISA OEHRY: “Looking Out,” paintings of animals. Through September 27. Info, 525-3366. Parker Pie in West Glover.

MERYL LEBOWITZ: “All Over the Place,” new landscape paintings by the Vermont artist. Reception: Sunday, September 24, 5-8 p.m. Through October 8. Info, 229-8317. The Satellite Gallery in Lyndonville.

MICHAEL ROOSEVELT: “A Life in Print,” fine-art prints, linocuts and engravings. Through September 30. Info, 748-0158. Northeast Kingdom Artisans Guild Backroom Gallery in St. Johnsbury.

PHILIP HERBISON: “Water in Motion” and “Assemblages,” photographs of large bodies of water, and wood sculptures using the scraps of other works, respectively. Through December 31. Info, 748-2600. Catamount Arts Fried Family Gallery DTWN in St. Johnsbury.

‘WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND’: An exhibition of objects that explores the practical, spiritual and ecstatic human relationship to wheels and what they enable. Through May 31. Info, 626-4409. The Museum of Everyday Life in Glover.

brattleboro/okemo valley

‘GLASSTASTIC’: Glass creatures dreamed up by children in grades K-6, brought to 3D life by glass artists, and situated in a habitat designed by Cynthia Parker-Houghton. ‘PRIDE 1983’: Photographs, artifacts and audio recordings that explore the origins and legacy of Burlington’s first Pride celebration. A production of the Pride Center of Vermont and Vermont Folklife, curated by Margaret Tamulonis.

ALEX EGAN: “Drawing Room,” a series of paintings that make up an imaginary house. ANINA MAJOR: “I Land Therefore I Am,” ceramic sculptures and other objects that explore self and place, belonging and identity, by the Bahamas-born artist. AURORA

ROBSON: “Human Nature Walk,” an immersive site-specific installation inspired by the natural forms of the Connecticut River and fashioned from plastic debris intercepted from the waste stream. Visitors are invited to contribute clean plastic bottle caps in designated sections of the installation.

HANNAH MORRIS: “Movable Objects,” narrative multimedia paintings in the gallery’s front windows.

LELA JAACKS: Outdoor abstract sculptures by the Vermont artist. ROBERLEY BELL: “Where Things Set,” an installation of distinct but related sculptures and drawings. Through October 9. Info, 257-0124. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center.

ANDY WARHOL: “Small Is Beautiful,” 100 of the artist’s smaller-format paintings, from the Hall collection.

RON GORCHOV: A 50-year survey of the American abstract artist’s work, featuring shaped canvases from the 1970s to large-scale paintings in his last years.

SUSAN ROTHENBERG: Nearly 30 figurative, gestural paintings by the late American artist from throughout her career. Weekends only; reservation required. Through November 26. Info, info@hallartfoundation. org. Hall Art Foundation in Reading.

FRAN BULL: “The Art Life,” paintings, prints and sculpture by the Vermont artist. Through October

CALL TO ARTISTS

2023 MEMBERS’ ART SHOW & SALE: The Current in Stowe invites member artists to submit work for the annual unjuried exhibition. All mediums welcome. Apply at thecurrentnow.org. Deadline: October 15. Online. Info, 253-8358.

2023 PHOTOGRAPHY SHOOTOUT: “Texture” is the theme of this year’s exhibition, which will be October 11 to November 11. All capture and processing methods are welcome. Drop off your entry (one or two photos) on October 7 by 4 p.m. Prizes will be awarded. Axel’s Frame Shop & Gallery, Waterbury. $20. Info, 244-7801.

ART TO GO LUGGAGE AUCTION: Seeking local artists to paint or collage nature-themed designs on Monos luggage, which will be auctioned October 14 to 27 to benefit Come Alive Outside’s outdoor gear library. Email arwen@comealiveoutside.com for time to pick up the luggage. Artists will receive a piece of luggage as thanks for their contribution. Merchants Row, Rutland. Through September 30. Info, 518-423-5337.

ARTIST DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

& FLOOD RELIEF FUNDING: The Vermont Arts Council offers grants that can fund activities to enhance mastery of a skill, or support an artist’s business or the creation of new work. Separate grants are available to artists who have been significantly and adversely affected by the recent flooding. The latter will be offered until funds are exhausted. Details at vermontartscouncil.org. Online. Through September 26. Info, 402-4602.

BURKLYN ARTS HOLIDAY CRAFT

MARKET: Burklyn Arts invites artists to apply for a booth at the 54th annual holiday market on December 2 at Catamount Arts’

ArtPort event space. Details and application at burklyn-arts.org. Online. Through October 7. $120 per booth. Info, elly.barksdale@gmail.com.

‘CELEBRATE!’: Seeking art and craft by SPA member-artists for upcoming exhibition on all three floors of the art center. Membership is $20 to $35. Deadline: October 7. More info at studioplacearts.com. Studio Place Arts, Barre. Info, submissions.studioplacearts@gmail.com.

‘CYCLES’: Inclusive Arts Vermont invites artists to submit work for an upcoming touring exhibition that interprets the theme in any way. Artists with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Apply at inclusiveartsvermont. org. Deadline: September 22. Online. Info, exhibitions@inclusiveartsvermont.org.

HOLIDAY SHOWCASE & CRAFT FAIR: The annual sale November 18 at Bellows Free Academy benefits the BFA Fairfax baseball

15. Info, 251-8290. Mitchell Giddings Fine Arts in Brattleboro.

‘GLASS | PASTEL’: A group exhibition of blown and sculpted glass along with pastel paintings by nine local artists. Through November 4. KIM GRALL & KATHLEEN ZIMMERMAN: “One Artist Bound to Earth,” mixed-media encaustics on paper, birch bark and gourds; and “Solo Spotlight,” serigraph and intaglio prints, respectively. Through October 14. LEN EMERY: An exhibition of aerial, journalistic and fine art photography by the latest member of the gallery’s Working Artist Program. Through September 29. Info, 289-0104. Canal Street Art Gallery in Bellows Falls.

PHOTOGRAPHY: FOUR PERSPECTIVES: An exhibition of images in different styles and subject matter by Al Karevy, Davida Carta, Joshua Farr and Vaune Trachtman, members of the Vermont Center for Photography in Brattleboro. Through November 12. Info, 451-0053. Next Stage Arts Project in Putney.

team’s spring training trip to Florida. Register at bit.ly/BFAcraftFair2023. Online. Through October 28. $50-75 per booth. Info, 355-0832.

‘MY DOG AND THE WOLF’: Radiate Arts Space is sponsoring an unjuried art exhibit about the dog-wolf connection: about people and their dogs, humans’ role in the domestication of the wolf, and why and how it has resulted in such a variety of breeds. Workshops October and November; celebration in December. Richmond Free Library. Through November 1. Info, mauie@ gmavt.net.

PUBLIC ART OPPORTUNITIES: Burlington City Arts has issued two requests for qualifications: Artists can apply to create new work for Burlington International Airport’s recently updated terminal and/or for the CityPlace Streetscape Project. Details and application at burlingtoncityarts.org. Deadline: September 22. Online. Info, 865-7166.

‘REFLECTIONS’: Edgewater Gallery on the Green in Middlebury is seeking submissions for an upcoming juried show for emerging artists. Guest jurors are John and Gillian Ross of Gallery Twist in Lexington, Mass. Deadline: October 20. More info at edgewatergallery.com. Online. $15 for three images. Info, 989-7419.

SUNDOG POETRY BOOK AWARD: The annual award for a first or second book of poetry is now open for submissions from any Vermont-based poet. The winner’s manuscript will be published through Green Writers Press and receive a cash prize, 50 book copies and promotional support. This year’s final judge is Matthew Olzmann. Deadline: September 30. Details at sundogpoetry.org. Online. $25. Info, hello@sundogpoetry.org.

‘TREES FOR ALL SEASONS’: Artists are invited to submit one or two themebased works in any medium including photography for an upcoming exhibit at the Jericho Town Hall. Must be able to be hung on a gallery hanger system. Details at jerichovt.org. Deadline: October 6. Online. Info, catherine. mcmains@gmail.com.

‘WHO ARE WE? PIECES OF THE IDENTITY PUZZLE’: November is a time for reflection and introspection. The gallery is seeking artwork depicting your take on identity, whether personal or as a people. All mediums accepted. Deliver work on or before Wednesday, November 8. Register at melmelts@yahoo.com. The Satellite Gallery, Lyndonville. $20. Info, 229-8317.

‘A HISTORY OF BENNINGTON’: An exhibition of artifacts that invites viewers to examine how history informs and affects our lives. Through December 31.

‘FOR THE LOVE OF VERMONT: THE LYMAN ORTON COLLECTION’: More than 200 pieces of art, primarily from the 1920s to 1960, acquired by the founder of the Vermont Country Store. Simultaneously exhibited at the Southern Vermont Art Center in Manchester. Through November 5. Info, 447-1571. Bennington Museum.

‘FOR THE LOVE OF VERMONT: THE LYMAN ORTON COLLECTION’: More than 200 works of art that capture Vermont’s unique character, people, traditions and landscape prior to the 1970s from the collection of the Vermont Country Store proprietor. Also displayed at Bennington Museum. Through November 5. Info, 362-1405. Yester House Galleries, Southern Vermont Arts Center, in Manchester.

NORTH BENNINGTON OUTDOOR SCULPTURE SHOW: An outdoor exhibition featuring 77 sculptures by 59 artists, curated by Joe Chirchirillo. Through November 12. Info, nbossvt@gmail.com. Various Bennington locations.

randolph/royalton

ASTRO DAN DAN: “Manufactured Phonies,” a show of prints and paintings by the Hanover, N.H.-based artist, aka Daniel Matthews. Through September 30. Info, 889-9404. Tunbridge Public Library.

CAROLYN EGELI & CHRIS WILSON: Landscape oil paintings and figurative sculptures, respectively. Through November 5. Info, 728-9878. Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph.

LINDA BLACKERBY & BETTE ANN LIBBY: Abstract paintings and mixed-media mosaic works, respectively. Through October 1. Info, 279-5048. ART, etc. in Randolph.

MARK ROSALBO: “The Bad Thing,” recent paintings by the local artist. Through October 1. Info, markrosalbo@gmail.com. The People’s Gallery in Randolph.

‘NO PLACE LIKE HERE: PHOTOGRAPHS FROM VERMONT, PAST AND PRESENT’: Vermont photographs, 1978-98 by Peter Moriarty, main gallery; and Farm Security Administration photographs of Vermont 1936-43, center gallery. Through October 29. Info, 767-9670. BigTown Gallery in Rochester.

TANYA LIBBY: Detailed paintings from nature. Through October 14. Info, 889-3525. The Tunbridge General Store Gallery.

outside vermont

ELLIOTT KATZ, GAAL SHEPHERD & ROGER WELLS: Three solo exhibitions by the Vermont and New Hampshire artists. Through October 6. LINDA ROESCH: “A Lifetime of Unfinished Discovery,” paintings in ink and watercolor by the local artist. Through September 23. Info, 603-448-3117. AVA Gallery and Art Center in Lebanon, N.H.

VAUNE TRACHTMAN AND RACHEL PORTESI:

An exhibition of images by the Vermont-based alternative-process photographers. Reception: Friday, September 22, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Through October 29. Info, 387-5566. Michael S. Currier Center, Putney School.

manchester/bennington

‘THE RED DRESS’: A touring project, conceived by British artist Kirstie Macleod, that provides an artistic platform for women around the world, many of whom are vulnerable and live in poverty, to tell their personal stories through embroidery.

BARBARA ISHIKURA & SAM FIELDS: “Frippery, Finery, Frills: Works in Conversation,” an exhibition of paintings and mixed-media sculptures, respectively, that explore intimacy in women’s lives. Through September 24. Info, 362-1405. Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester.

‘HOMECOMING: DOMESTICITY AND KINSHIP IN GLOBAL AFRICAN ART’: More than 75 works drawn from the museum’s collection of African and African diaspora art that emphasize the role of women artists and feminine aesthetics. Through May 25.

KENT MONKMAN: “The Great Mystery,” four new paintings by the Cree artist along with five works in the museum’s collection that inspired them, by Hannes Beckmann, T.C. Cannon, Cyrus Edwin Dallin, Mark Rothko and Fritz Scholder. Through December 9. Info, 603-646-2808. Hood Museum, Dartmouth College, in Hanover, N.H.

‘PORTABLE UNIVERSE: THOUGHT AND SPLENDOUR OF INDIGENOUS COLOMBIA’: Nearly 400 artworks, including jewelry, masks, effigies, textiles and more, dating from about 1500 BC to the present. Through October 1. ‘THE POP OF LIFE!’: An exhibition of 70 iconic pop-art works from the museum’s collection. Through March 24. Info, 514-285-2000. Montréal Museum of Fine Arts.

ROBERT BURCHESS: “Through a Glass Darkly: Faces and Figures,” drawings by the Vermont artist. Through September 27. Info, robertburchess@gmail. com. Howe Library in Hanover, N.H. ➆

the upstairs ballroom, torn turquoise wallpaper highlights archival prints by Middlebury drone photographer Caleb Kenna — one of them an aerial view of deep turquoise waters in a disused Vermont quarry.

Thetford Hill artist Ed O’Keeffe, one of three rug hookers in the show, created “Dancers,” an abstract orange and blue wall hanging with rough X’s in pale yellow. The work is hung on a wall whose blue wallpaper has been torn to reveal a pale yellow surface.

H. Keith Wagner’s rusted metal spheres — and a large wood one, titled “Furrow,” which features a crack the artist roughly stapled with bent nails — pair well with a manufacturedbrick fireplace and hearth. In the nonfunctioning fireplace itself sits Wagner’s acrylic painting on wood, “Winter Meadow,” a nearabstract, minimalist rendering of horizon and land in muted yellow and white-dusted ecru. Wagner, a founding partner of the Burlington firm Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture, would likely appreciate the dialogue of materials created by the curators’ placement of his work.

“Traces” is unusually interactive for an art show: There are boxes to open, cranks to turn and, in nearly every room, Johnny Swing’s surprisingly comfortable chairs to sit in. The highly collectible Brookline artist has been

“TRACES” IS

BOXES

OPEN, CRANKS TO

creating his signature chairs made from coins since 1993. Their substructure alone is a wonder, but Swing’s other work at the Kent reveals a broader sense of playful inventiveness. Two chairs are fashioned from rope-shaped strips of squeezed tinfoil; for another two, he screwed baby food jars to frames through their metal lids. The Kent’s invitation to visit and contemplate “Traces” is as ephemeral as its subject: The show lasts only through October 8, after which the building sits empty for 11 months, filled with nothing but, well, traces. ➆

INFO

“Art at the Kent: Traces,” on view through October 8 at Kents’ Corner State Historic Site in Calais. Closing reception: Sunday, October 8, 3 to 5 p.m. kentscorner.org

A TWO PERSON EXHIBITION

NATURE’S INNER LIGHT

ON VIEW THROUGH NOVEMBER 15TH

OPENING RECEPTION

THURSDAY OCTOBER 5TH, 2023 5:00PM - 6:30PM

Edgewater Gallery at the Falls One Mill St. Middlebury

GALLERY HOURS:

Tuesday - Saturday 10AM – 5PM

Sunday 11AM – 4PM or by appointment

One Mill St and 6 Merchant’s Row, Middlebury Vermont 802-458-0098 & 802-989-7419

edgewatergallery.com

UNUSUALLY INTERACTIVE: THERE ARE

TO

TURN AND JOHNNY SWING’S SURPRISINGLY COMFORTABLE CHAIRS TO SIT IN.

Detail of “Listening, You See” by Bunny Harvey

HOLLY FRIESEN

PENNY BILLINGS

EDGEWATER GALLERY PRESENTS

music+nightlife

SUNDbites

News and views on the local music + nightlife scene

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH

Rocking the Block

One of the longest-running mysteries and conversations in the Burlington scene centers on the city’s gay bars — in the sense that we have none. Zilch. Zero. There hasn’t been a dedicated space for the LGBTQIA+ community in the greater Burlington area for years. The most recent attempt, the disastrous Mister Sister debacle of 2017, served more as a source of controversy among the gay community than a safe space. (Feel free to relive the whole mess by looking through Soundbites past. My predecessor, JORDAN ADAMS, spent a lot of ink covering the fight over the name of the Winooski bar, considered by many to be a transphobic slur, and its subsequent renaming and closing.)

Even if you factor in spots such as Babes Bar in Bethel and Fox Market and Bar in East Montpelier, it’s pretty hard to find a gay bar in the entire state, actually. That’s especially shocking considering that Vermont has the seventh-highest number of LGBTQ-identifying people per capita and the highest rate of same-sex couples in the entire nation, according to a 2022 study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles. In other words, Vermont is suuuuuuper gay. So, uh, WTF? Where are all the gay bars?

“I’m definitely not an expert on the subject,” ABBIE MORIN recently told me by phone. The singer-songwriter and guitar shredder, who is gay and uses they/them pronouns, fronts the indie rock project HAMMYDOWN and is a former member of Burlington expat CAROLINE ROSE’s band.

“I’m sure there are stats and financial reasons,” Morin said, “but I do know that it’s hard to run an establishment that has to feel like a monolith for a very, very dynamic community that doesn’t necessarily want the same things all the time.”

Morin was less interested in unpacking all the minutiae and financial secrets of opening a gay bar than in putting on something for their community here and now. So when LAUREN MCKENZIE, co-owner of the Wallflower Collective bar in downtown Burlington, asked Morin if they might be down to organize an event to celebrate Pride Month in Vermont, they leaped at the chance.

On Saturday, September 24, Morin and the Wallflower Collective, along with the organizers of the monthly Burlington Dyke Night series, will throw the Big Gay Block Party. The all-day music festival features sets by Vermont expats TOTH and KALBELLS — aka Alex Toth and Kalmia

Traver, respectively, who are also in the indie band RUBBLEBUCKET together — as well as some of the area’s best up-andcoming acts, including indie rockers ROBBER ROBBER, queer punk band RANGUS and DJ GENDERENDER.

“This is really my first time sort of putting on a curator hat,” Morin said. “I’ve spent years on the road playing in Caroline’s band and met so many friends and musicians I respect, so it’s a huge incentive for me to put on an event where I can just get all my friends together.”

The music happens on two stages, one outdoors and the other inside the Wallflower Collective. Food will be provided by Folino’s pizzeria, along with a Zero Gravity Craft Brewery beer brewed specifically for the event. Morin said to also expect tarot readings, gender-a rming haircuts, a dildo ring toss and a photo booth designated as the “Dyke Dome.”

Funds from a ra e go directly to supporting the Freedom Finders Collective, a proposed school in Burlington that, according to the organization’s website, “centers the safety, integrity, joy and freedom of Black children.”

Morin views the block party as an immediate way to address what they see as a neglected area for the gay community.

“I can’t speak enough to how important events like this are to gay culture in Vermont,” Morin said. “It would be so nice to just have one single place any night of the week that we could all go to, but the reality is that’s not what it looks like in Burlington and Vermont right now.”

Morin wants to help make the community feel as welcoming to gay people as it did when they started playing in the Burlington area a decade ago.

“For whatever reason, I just don’t get the sense that the local music scene is as supportive of the gay community as it was 10 years ago,” Morin said. “So I want to be super intentional with an event like the Big Gay Block Party. Everybody is welcome, but yeah, like the tagline says: ‘This one’s for the queers and the people who love us.’”

Hammydown will headline the block party, and Morin is excited to play their new material.

“I’ve been working on my new album for over three years now,” they said. “It’s done, really. Caroline Rose produced it, BENNY YURCO mixed it, and now I’m just doing the business side of it all. But I can’t wait for it to come out!”

For more information on the Big Gay Block Party, visit pridecentervt. org. Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite or in person at Grass Queen and the Wallflower Collective in Burlington.

Listening In

(Spotify mix of local jams)

1. “BUTTERFLIES!” by tip/toe

2. “BRIGHT BLUE DAYS” by Milton Busker & the Grim Work

3. “CATERPILLAR” by Robscure

4. “ALL IS VANITY” by Chris Weisman

5. “TOO MUCH AND NOT ENOUGH” by Luminous Crush

6. “AMERICAN LOVE” by Camden Joy

7. “MAGDALENE” by Andrea Tomasi

Scan to listen sevendaysvt. com/playlist

Hammydown

On the Beat

If you thought URIAN HACKNEY’s ascent had reached a zenith (see “Thrill Ride,” my August 23 cover story on the rising-star drummer and producer), I’ve got some news for you. No, I mean I literally have news.

Hackney rang me up the other day to let me know that, in between juggling his commitments with Detroit postpunk act the ARMED and his Burlington band ROUGH FRANCIS and recently joining his dad, uncle and brothers in the legendary proto-punk outfit DEATH, he’s been hired by IGGY POP. Yes, that Iggy Pop. I know it’s wild, but at this point, maybe we should all just start expecting the incredible from Hackney.

Hackney will hook up with the legendary rocker and his band before an October 21 headlining spot at the III Points music festival in Miami. “I had to get pretty creative, because I was supposed to be going on KEXP with the Armed,” he told me.

Missing an opportunity to be on the popular Seattle radio station show was tough for Hackney, but it was also a nobrainer.

“It’s fucking Iggy Pop!” Hackney all but shouted with glee. “He’s the beginning of it all for me. I’ve listened to more Iggy Pop than any other musician in my life. I was fucking born for this.”

While that statement could be

overdramatic coming from someone else, Hackney isn’t wrong. I can’t think of a more qualified — not to mention supremely inspired — drummer to join Iggy’s band.

Rumors that Iggy chose Hackney after reading Seven Days’ cover story about the drummer a few weeks ago are unsubstantiated, if pretty cool to imagine. Were we able to reach Iggy for comment, let’s pretend he said something like, “There are still fucking newspapers? I mean, yeah, sure, I definitely read that! Who are you again?”

Congrats must go out to singersongwriter NOAH KAHAN, as well. The Stra ord native, who released the hit album Stick Season in 2022 to global success and acclaim, was recently named to Time magazine’s 2023 TIME100 Next list, which recognizes rising leaders in health, climate

advocacy, business, sports, the arts and more.

“So many incredible people on this list,” Kahan wrote on social media after learning of making the roster, which included actress MAYA HAWKE, rapper ICE SPICE and NASA astronaut VICTOR GLOVER JR. “Beyond honored to be a part of this ... Upper valley forever.”

Vermont-trained skier and Olympic gold medalist MIKAELA SHIFFRIN penned a tribute to Kahan for Time, writing that the singer-songwriter “can point out flaws in a place or in life without stripping away the importance and beauty.”

Brooklyn-via-Burlington rapper RIVAN released a new single on September 12 titled “paper tabs.” The drum- and bassheavy track celebrates being in the kind of love that feels like the highest hit of a drug.

“No matter the level, I’ve never ever been this high, / Cut you up in paper tabs and put you on my tongue, / You’re the darkest corners of my mind and bright as morning sun,” he raps. It’s a rich comparison, love and acid, and rivan delves into that mood, producing a song full of skittering beats and whispered vocals, creating that sense of being just on the edge of losing your shit. Whether it’s over the hallucinogenics or the infatuation is anyone’s guess. “paper tabs” is on all major streaming platforms. ➆

On the Air

Where to tune in to Vermont music this week:

• “WAVE CAVE RADIO SHOW,” Wednesday, September 20, 2 p.m., on 105.9 the Radiator: DJS FLYWLKER and GINGERVITUS spin the best of local and nonlocal hip-hop.

• “EXPOSURE,” Wednesday, September 20, 6 p.m., on 90.1 WRUV: live local music played in studio.

• “ROCKET SHOP RADIO HOUR,” Wednesday, September 20, 8 p.m., on 105.9 the Radiator: Host TOM PROCTOR plays selections of local music.

Eye on the Scene

Last week’s live music highlights from photographer Luke Awtry

COSMIC THE COWBOY, BURLINGTON CITY ARTS TWILIGHT SERIES, CITY HALL PARK, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16: Summer is swiftly coming to an end, and with it comes the conclusion of this season’s Burlington City Arts Twilight Series. With festival and event director ZACH WILLIAMSON at the helm and event manager ABRA CLAWSON at front of house, the City Hall Park series has absolutely hit the mark in terms of production quality, both sonically and visually. e series showcased many Vermont bands this year, including the BUBS, the DEAD SHAKERS, MARCIE HERNANDEZ, MAPLE RUN BAND, FERN MADDIE, SARAH KING and TROY MILLETTE. Shown here is COSMIC THE COWBOY, the moniker of musician TREVOR SOHNEN, a Los Angeles transplant who landed in the Green Mountain State in 2021. e last evening of the Twilight Series on Saturday was a danceable affair, with psychedelic alt-country provided by Cosmic, followed by a set of dreamy indie pop from out-of-towners BOYSCOTT. ank you, Burlington City Arts, for your ongoing support of Burlington’s music scene.

• “THE SOUNDS OF BURLINGTON,” ursday, September 21, 9 p.m., at wbkm. org: Host TIM LEWIS plays selections of local music.

• “CULTURAL BUNKER,” Friday, September 22, 7 p.m., on 90.1 WRUV: Host MELO GRANT plays local and nonlocal hip-hop.

• “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” Saturday, September 23, 4 p.m., on 91.1 WGDR: Host MARK MICHAELIS plays folk and Americana music with an emphasis on Vermont artists.

• “ALL THE TRADITIONS,” Sunday, September 24, 7 p.m., on Vermont Public. Host ROBERT RESNIK plays an assortment of folk music with a focus on Vermont artists.

Urian Hackney

CLUB DATES music+nightlife

live music

WED.20

Bluegrass & BBQ (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.

The Devil Makes Three, the Ditrani Brothers (Americana) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $30/$35.

Hemlock, Lily Seabird, Cam Gilmour Band (indie rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10/$15.

James McMurty, BettySoo (singer-songwriter) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $25/$30.

Jazz Jam Sessions with Randal Pierce (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

John Geno (folk) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.

Lazy Bird (jam) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Live Jazz (jazz) at Leunig’s Bistro & Café, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Taper’s Choice (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15/$25.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead covers) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $5.

Willverine (electronic) at the Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

THU.21

Bob Gagnon Quartet (jazz) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Greg Freeman (indie rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $25/$30.

Bryan Bielanski (acoustic) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

Chat Pile, Nerver, Consumer (rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $23/$28.

Duke Aeroplane & the Inflatable

Gator Band (R&B) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Eric Nicholson (singer-songwriter) at American Flatbread Stowe, 6 p.m. Free.

Fossil Record, Earthworm (prog rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5/$10.

Grace Palmer and Socializing for Introverts (rock) at Red Square, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Jaded Ravins (Americana) at Red Square, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Jazz with Alex Stewart and Friends (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.

FRI.22

90 Proof (covers) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

About Time

Boston jam band DOPAPOD have always brought a little something extra to their heady mix of styles, whether incorporating jazz, metal or country into their songs. After a brief hiatus, the band returned with 2022’s Dopapod, an album focused on time travel and symmetry — fitting for a band whose name is a palindrome. The vinyl version even comes with a gatefold that turns into a board game that takes the listener through the group’s 15-year career. Dopapod swing through Burlington for a two-night stand at Nectar’s on Tuesday, September 26, and Wednesday, September 27.

Arkansauce (bluegrass) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Austin Petrashune (singersongwriter) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Breanna Elaine (singersongwriter) at Taps Tavern, Poultney, 6 p.m. Free. Broken String (bluegrass) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free. Cabinet Trio (bluegrass) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 9 p.m. $15/$20.

Chris Powers (acoustic) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6 p.m. Free.

Dan Bishop (singer-songwriter) at Stone’s Throw Pizza, Waterbury, 7 p.m. Free.

Dave Mitchell’s Blues Revue (blues) at Red Square, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free.

David Karl Roberts (singersongwriter) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Devon McGarry Band (folk rock) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.

The Discussions, Satyrdagg (psychedelic, jazz) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10/$15.

Funk on the Water with DJ Rice Pilaf, Queen City Cutups, CRWD CTRL (DJ, funk) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, noon. $5.

Kurt Vile and the Violators, Joanna Sternberg (indie rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8 p.m. $35/$39.

The Lloyd Tyler Band (covers) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free. May Erlewine, Matt Suchich (singer-songwriter) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $15/$20.

Rap Night Burlington (hip-hop) at Drink, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5. Rowan (folk) at Stone’s Throw Pizza, Richmond, 6 p.m. Free.

Ryan Osswald (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.

Daniel Champagne (singersongwriter) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $20/$25.

D.Davis, Cookie (jazz) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

FINQ, Julia Kate Davis (rock fusion) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $15.

Instant Narwahl (rock) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Jerborn (acoustic) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Kale (jam) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Left Eye Jump (blues) at Red Square, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free.

SUN.24

The Dale and Darcy Band (folk) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 3 p.m. Free.

Jeff & Gina (folk) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 1 p.m. Free. Mr. Doubtfire, Vallory Falls, Kennedy Park, Assorted Fruit (punk) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $7/$12.

Nico Suave (rock) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Sunday Brunch Tunes (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m.

TUE.26

Big Easy Tuesdays with Back Porch Revival (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass) at Taps Tavern, Poultney, 7 p.m. Free. Dopapod (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $20/$30.

Honky Tonk Tuesday with John Abair, John Freeburn Band (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10.

Troy Millette and the Fire Below (folk) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5 p.m. Free.

Thaya Zalewski Quartet (jazz) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead covers) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $5. Willverine (electronic) at the Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

djs

WED.20

DJ CRE8 (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11:30 p.m. Free.

THU.21

DJ Chaston (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Mi Yard Reggae Night with DJ Big Dog (reggae and dancehall) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9:30 p.m. Free.

Vinyl Night with Ken (DJ) at Taps Tavern, Poultney, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.22

DJ Craig Mitchell (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Dakota (DJ) at Club Metronome, Burlington, 10 p.m. $5.

DJ Kata (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

DJ Taka (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15. John’s Jukebox (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

SAT.23

Blanchface (DJ) at Manhattan Pizza & Pub, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

DJ A-Ra$ (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, midnight. Free.

DJ Raul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Soul Porpoise (funk) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Thomas Hinds (singer-songwriter) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

Tyler Mast Band (rock) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 9:30 p.m. Free.

SAT.23

Astral Underground (jazz) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Blue Fox Trio (blues, rock) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.

The Chad Hollister Band (folk/ rock) at Double E Performance Center’s T-Rex Theater, Essex, 7 p.m. $35. Info, 878-4200. Club d’Elf (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.

Dan Blakeslee (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10/$15.

WED.27

Bluegrass & BBQ (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Dan Ryan Express (jazz) at American Flatbread Burlington Hearth, 5:30 p.m. Free. Dopapod (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $20/$30.

Emmy McDonnell, Hallie Hase (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5/$10.

Jazz Jam Sessions with Randal Pierce (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Lazy Bird (jam) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Live Jazz (jazz) at Leunig’s Bistro & Café, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

The Mattson 2, Paper Castles (psych jazz) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $12/$14.

DJ Taka (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15. Gimme Gimme Disco (ABBA tribute) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $20/$23.

Matt Payne (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Molly Mood (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free. Roost.world (DJ set) (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10/$15.

Silverback Jamboree (DJ) at Club Metronome, Burlington, 9 p.m. $30.

SUN.24

JP Black (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.

MON.25

Memery (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

WED.27

DJ CRE8 (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11:30 p.m. Free.

TUE.26 & WED.27 // DOPAPOD [JAM]

COURTESY OF MICHAEL WEINTROB

open mics & jams

WED.20

Irish Sessions (Celtic, open mic) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Lit Club (poetry open mic) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Open Mic (open mic) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Taps Tavern, Poultney, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.21

Open Mic (open mic) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

SUN.24

VT Synth Society September

Meetup (synth) at Community of Sound, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free.

MON.25

Open Mic (open mic) at Stone Corral, Richmond, 7 p.m. Free.

Open Mic Night (open mic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.27

Irish Sessions (Celtic, open mic) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Open Mic (open mic) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Taps Tavern, Poultney, 7 p.m. Free.

comedy

WED.20

Aparna Nancherla (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $53.

Standup Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.

THU.21

Aparna Nancherla (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $53.

Ash Diggs, Nic Sisk, Mike Thomas (comedy) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $5/$7.

Belly Laughs Comedy Night (comedy) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10.

Nurse Blake (comedy) at Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 8 p.m. $48 - $203.50.

FRI.22

Ahri Findling (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. $25.

Rusty DeWees (comedy) at Pittsford Village Farm, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Todd Barry (comedy) at Strand Center for the Arts, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 7 p.m. $28.

SAT.23

Ahri Findling (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. $25.

SUN.24

Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $5.

MON.25

Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.27

Face/Off: A Standup Comedy Switcheroo (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m.

Free.

Standup Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.

Whale Tales: An Evening of Comedic Storytelling (comedy) at Club Metronome, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

trivia, karaoke, etc.

WED.20

4Qs Trivia Night (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Local Maverick (storytelling) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 6 p.m. $15.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Stone Corral, Richmond, 7 p.m. Free.

Venetian Trivia Night (trivia) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

THU.21

Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. Free.

Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Gusto’s, Barre, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Highland Lodge, Greensboro, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at McGillicuddy’s Five Corners, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Thursday (trivia) at Spanked Puppy Pub, Colchester, 7 p.m. Free.

FRI.22

Karoke with DJ Big T (karaoke) at McKee’s Pub & Grill, Winooski, 9 p.m. Free.

SAT.23

Henry Rollins (spoken word) at Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7:30 p.m. $30-$40.

SUN.24

Sunday Funday (games) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, noon. Free.

Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

MON.25

Trivia Monday with Top Hat Entertainment (trivia) at McKee’s Pub & Grill, Winooski, 7-9 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Craig Mitchell (trivia) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.26

Karaoke with Motorcade (karaoke) at Manhattan Pizza & Pub, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free. Local Maverick (storytelling) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 6 p.m. $15.

Taproom Trivia (trivia) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at the Depot, St. Albans, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Tuesday (trivia) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free.

Tuesday Trivia (trivia) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.27

4Qs Trivia Night (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Stone Corral, Richmond, 7 p.m. Free.

Venetian Trivia Night (trivia) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free. ➆

REVIEW this music+nightlife

Marty Fogel, Now and Then / Now and Then II

(SELF-RELEASED, CD, DIGITAL)

With the release of a full-length album and an accompanying EP, one of the area’s most esteemed jazz musicians shares a sophisticated batch of original compositions that represent his decades as a prolific touring and recording artist.

Colchester’s Marty Fogel introduced his five-song EP Now and Then II in June and followed it up in August with the release of the album Now and Then. The latter features nine tracks and expands the project to more than 90 minutes of captivating music drawing on his varied influences and experiences. The two releases mark the well-regarded tenor and soprano saxophonist as a master of his craft and a visionary bandleader who successfully showcases the abilities of the local players who join him.

As the name suggests, the project celebrates jazz of

Patrick Krief, Skylines

(HANDWRITTEN DISTRIBUTION, DIGITAL, VINYL)

Having your album copy casually compare you to John Lennon and Leonard Cohen is fairly fucking bold, even by the hyperbolic standards of music PR. Yet in the case of Montréal singer, songwriter and pop visionary Patrick Krief, the comparison is fair. He is a genre chameleon who excels at everything he does, and he pens spare but powerful songs.

His status as a star in his own right has been a long time coming. Krief did great work in the trenches of Canada’s indie rock scene for decades, beginning as a sideman whose most prominent gig was with Montréal fixtures the Dears. In recent years, after endless studio experimentation, he began releasing albums under his own name. Skylines, his latest o ering, is a proper prestige rock record, sequenced to be experienced as two sides of a vinyl LP (which can be yours for a mere $28 — Canadian!).

It’s also a concept album of sorts, exploring Krief’s

yesterday and today. From the classic jazz sounds of the buoyant and swift title track to the intricate melodies and straight beat of the modern “Long in the Tooth,” Now and Then pleasingly escorts listeners through a range of moods and textures.

The remarkable dreamscape extends onto the EP, where tracks such as “House on Fire” smolder and scorch to dazzling e ect as Fogel explodes with a ferocity on the tenor sax.

With each piece creating an aura and most clocking in at more than five minutes, the lush arrangements develop the power to transfix. Their depth and design speak to Fogel’s broader background as a performer and recorder.

He hones his unique style through his experiences in di erent musical realms, including fusion and rock.

experience as a firstgeneration Canadian by way of Morocco. If not for the liner notes, though, you’d hardly know it.

This isn’t some heavy-handed rock opera clobbering you over the head with exposition, just a tight collection of songs revolving around love, loss and family. Even in the most familiar radio-pop pockets of this LP, Krief wins you over with his songwriting. Every line is honed razor sharp, speaking universal truths but still evoking a little mystery along the way.

The production here is consistently incredible. Much of that sheen is thanks to the expertise of McGill University alum Marcus Paquin, who is perhaps most famous for his work with Arcade Fire. But Krief is not only a songwriter with a real gift for framing everything just right, he’s also a producer himself.

Most notably, Fogel appeared on four of Lou Reed’s albums, beginning in the mid-1970s, and spent five years touring with the Velvet Underground singer. He also played with James Taylor, Parliament and other legends.

But Fogel earned his reputation with jazz aficionados as the leader of the Everyman Band, which released two albums on the prestigious ECM Records label and performed for decades.

When he moved to Vermont in 2017, Fogel quickly established himself in the local scene. Joining him on the recordings are three of the area’s standouts: pianist Tom Cleary, drummer/cymbalist Geza Carr and upright bassist Jeremy Hill.

Fogel has said in the past that he strives to be forthright with the music he creates. The new album and EP reveal him and his fellow musicians to be unbound as they explore their collective creativity across these complex, mesmerizing compositions.

Now and Then is available on all major streaming platforms and can be purchased on CD from Fogel. The digital-only release Now and Then II is also available on streaming platforms.

His range on Skylines is vast. But his dynamics are carefully controlled, so when things open up into full freak-out apocalypse, as in the closing act of “Chiburi” or the filthy blues stomp of “Hard Luck,” the listener is left stomped flat.

The same can be said for some of the album’s softest moments, too. Krief is a master of quiet intensity. Case in point: “Damned,” a slow, lovely shu e that’s equal parts Cowboy Junkies and Lana Del Rey. It’s a spellbinding love track, vulnerable and raw, and it washes over you like a dream.

The album closes strong, veering from the thundering backbeat of “Ten Steps” into the title track, which starts o distinctly country and builds into something psychedelic and grandiose. Finally, “Light Eyes” strips everything down to Krief’s voice and guitar. On an album so overflowing with ideas, this spare finish o ers a potent contrast.

Skylines is the most confident album from Krief yet, as well as his most ambitious. This is a highly refined, world-class product. Not only is the artist equal to his hype, but it’s a crime he’s not getting bigger coverage.

Skylines is available on Bandcamp and all major streaming platforms.

JUSTIN BOLAND

CASEY RYAN VOCK

Steps for Social Change Steps for Social Change

SEPTEMBER 20-27, 2023

WED.20 business

THE CONFIDENCE CONFERENCE: RUN YOUR BUSINESS LIKE A BOSS: Marie Eddy emcees this gathering of female entrepreneurs hosted by Women Business Owners Network Vermont. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $60-120; preregister. Info, 503-0219.

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS

NETWORKING

INTERNATIONAL GROUP: Savvy businesspeople make crucial contacts at a weekly chapter meeting. Burlington City Arts, 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 829-5066.

community

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

DESK: HOWARD CENTER: Representatives post up in the main reading room to answer questions and provide resources. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

WOMEN & WILLS: In a relaxed and comfortable setting, women of all ages get advice, useful tools and tips to begin or refine a legacy plan that meets their goals and priorities. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 377-2725, maya@vlt.org.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: A drop-in meetup welcomes knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers and beyond. BYO snacks and drinks. Must Love Yarn, Shelburne, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3780.

dance

WESTIE WEDNESDAYS

DANCE: Swing dancers lift and spin at a weekly social dance. North Star Community

Hall, Burlington, 8-9 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 802westiecollective@gmail. com.

education

WIRED WEDNESDAYS: ANDROID BASICS: New users practice checking their voicemail, browsing the web and updating their settings. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-3403.

fairs & festivals

BARRE HERITAGE FESTIVAL & HOMECOMING DAYS: Arts, culture, music, food and history join forces at this celebration of the unstoppable Granite City’s past and present. See thebarrepartnership.com for full schedule. See calendar spotlight. Various Barre locations, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Prices vary. Info, 477-2967.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘THE GROUND BETWEEN US’: Sustainable Woodstock virtually screens this 2020 documentary about threats facing public lands such as Bears Ears National Monument, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and Elliott State Forest. Free; preregister. Info, 457-2911.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: Sparkling graphics and vibrant interviews take viewers on a journey alongside NASA astronauts as they prepare for stranger-than-sciencefiction space travel. Northfield Savings Bank 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

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 Emily Hamilton 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.

regular admission, $14.50-18; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD 3D’: Stunning footage takes viewers on a mind-bending journey into phenomena that are too slow, too fast or too small to be seen by the naked eye. Northfield Savings Bank 3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, noon, 2 & 4 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $14.50-18; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: Viewers are plunged into the magical vistas of the continent’s deserts, jungles and savannahs. Northfield Savings Bank 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, $14.50-18; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: Sandhill cranes, yellow warblers and mallard ducks make their lives along rivers, lakes and wetlands. Northfield Savings Bank 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, $14.50-18; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

food & drink

COMMUNITY SUPPER: Neighbors share a tasty meal at their local library. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

COOK THE BOOK: Home chefs make a recipe from Rustic Fruit Desserts: Crumbles, Buckles, Cobblers, Pandowdies

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 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.

= ONLINE EVENT

and More by Cory Schreiber and Julie Richardson and share the dish at a potluck lunch. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

OKTOBERFEST: Homemade pretzels, brats and Oktoberfeststyle beer are served up along with tunes from German band Inseldudler. American Flatbread Burlington Hearth, 5-9 p.m. Free. Info, 861-2999.

games

MAH-JONGG OPEN PLAY: Weekly sessions of an age-old game promote critical thinking and friendly competition. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 362-2607.

PUZZLE SWAP: Participants bring completed puzzles in a ziplock bag with an image of the completed puzzle and swap for a new puzzle. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

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.

DYING TO TALK ABOUT IT: A FORUM ON DEATH AND DYING WELL: A panel including an interfaith chaplain, a funeral director and a medical doctor discuss the realities of the end of life. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

SEATED & STANDING YOGA: Beginners are welcome to grow their strength and flexibility at this supportive class. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 549-4574.

VERMONT SUICIDE PREVENTION

SYMPOSIUM: Online speeches and seminars address the issues affecting Vermonters’ mental health. Presented by the Vermont Suicide Prevention Center. Noon-1 p.m. $25-100; preregister. Info, 254-6590.

language

BEGINNER IRISH LANGUAGE CLASS: Celtic-curious students learn to speak an Ghaeilge in a supportive group. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

ELL CLASSES: ENGLISH FOR BEGINNERS & INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS: Learners of all abilities practice written and spoken English with trained instructors. Presented by Fletcher Free Library. 6:30-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, bshatara@ burlingtonvt.gov.

SPANISH CONVERSATION: Fluent and beginner speakers brush up on their español with a discussion led by a Spanish teacher. Presented by Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 5-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@damlvt.org.

montréal

‘AURA’: An immersive light show and soundscape highlights the rich history and stunning architecture of the Québec church.

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal, 6 & 8 p.m. $18-32; free for kids 5 and under. Info, 866-842-2925.

music

ANI DIFRANCO: The feminist folk icon pairs an indie spirit with poignant lyrics and a captivating stage presence. Kristen Ford opens. The Flynn, Burlington, 8 p.m. $42-52.50. Info, 863-5966.

LIVE IN THE ORCHARD: THE MEATPACKERS: The beloved local band serves up its signature brand of contagious bluegrass. Shelburne Orchards, 12:30-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.

ZACH NUGENT UNCORKED: The sought-after guitarist plays a weekly loft show featuring live music, storytelling and special guests. Shelburne Vineyard, 6-8:45 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8222.

outdoors

SEE IT SKETCH IT BIRD IT: DRAW & LEARN: An interactive program uses bird carvings and other items to learn how to sketch birds. No drawing experience required, and all materials are supplied. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

seminars

DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S: THE CAREGIVER’S PERSPECTIVE: Nurse practitioner and dementia expert Kelley Elwell leads this workshop on caring for a loved one with memory loss. Presented by Kellogg-Hubbard Library.

6:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 223-3338.

MENTOR TRAINING FOR JUSTICEINVOLVED WOMEN: Volunteers receive training to help trauma-affected women. Mercy Connections, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-7164, jnelson@mercycon nections.org.

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.

words

BANNED BOOKS TOUR: Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman hosts a reading featuring stories that have faced conservative backlash across the country. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 828-2226.

CACONRAD: The award-winning poet, playwright and author of Amanda Paradise: Resurrect Extinct Vibration reads from their work. Vermont Studio Center, Johnson, 8-9 p.m. Free. Info, 635-2727.

SHANNON MULLEN: The Maine author shares scenes from her book In Other Words, Leadership: How a

Young Mother’s Weekly Letters to Her Governor Helped Both Women Brave the First Pandemic Year. Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

VIRTUAL POETRY OPEN

MIC: Wordsmiths read their work at an evening with local performance poet Bianca Amira Zanella. Presented by Phoenix Books. 7-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 855-8078.

THU.21 business

HIRING2DAYVT VIRTUAL

JOB FAIR: Job seekers get a chance to meet with employers from around the state, thanks to the Vermont Department of Labor. 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 828-4000.

crafts

KNIT FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR: All ages and abilities are invited to knit or crochet hats and scarves for the South Burlington Food Shelf. All materials are provided. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140. KNITTING GROUP: Knitters of all experience levels get together to spin yarns. Latham Library, Thetford, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

education

FINANCIAL FUTURES:

FINANCIALS 101: Finance and business experts offer money management and small business development advice in this threepart series. Offered in partnership with CVOEO. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5:306:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

environment

EMPOWER VERMONT

KICKOFF EVENT: Locals learn where their electricity comes from and how they can advocate for a greener grid. Presented by 350VT. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, rebecca@350vt.org.

fairs & festivals

BARRE HERITAGE FESTIVAL & HOMECOMING DAYS: See WED.20, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANXIOUS NATION’: NAMI Vermont screens this 2022 documentary about the rise in anxiety diagnoses among youths around the country. Q&A follows. Mental health resources provided. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7949.

GRANITE LECTURE AND FILM

SERIES: 1950S AND 1960S 8MM

FILMS: Digitized footage depicts everyday quarry operations and sparks discussion. Vermont Granite Museum, Barre, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 249-3897.

‘THE GROUND BETWEEN US’: See WED.20.

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.20 burlington

BABYTIME: Librarians bring out books, rhymes and songs specially selected for young ones. Pre-walkers and younger. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

IMAGINATION STATION: Giant Jenga, Hula-Hoops and jump ropes entertain shoppers of all ages in between stops. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1648.

STEAM SPACE: Kids explore science, technology, engineering, art and math activities. Ages 5 through 11. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

STORIES WITH SHANNON: Ages 2 to 5 gather in the library’s youth section for story time, songs and fun. No preregistration needed. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

TODDLER TIME: Books, rhymes, songs and open-ended play for 1- and 2-yearolds and their caregivers. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

BABY SOCIAL TIME: Caregivers and infants from birth through age 1 gather in the Wiggle Room to explore board books and toys. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: COOKING: Middle school students in grades 5 to 8 create kitchen confections with secret ingredients, listed on the library’s website. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

barre/montpelier

CHESS CLUB: Youngsters of all skill levels get one-on-one lessons at the School St. picnic tables. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

HOMESCHOOL BOOK GROUP: Home learners ages 10 through 15 start the school year off with an outdoor meeting. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

OUTSIDE AFTERSCHOOL: Undeterred by the library’s repairs, librarians lead students in games and art every weekday at the School St. picnic tables. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 2:45-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

mad river valley/ waterbury

TEEN ART CLUB: Crafty young’uns ages 12 through 18 create together. Waterbury Public Library, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

The Old Ball Game

Locals hit a home run in support of kids and families impacted by childhood cancer at Camp Ta-Kum-Ta’s annual Softballathon. Players take over Burlington’s Centennial Field for one massive, daylong game in support of the camp that gives young cancer patients and survivors the best summer ever. Eight hours of innings offer endless enjoyment for players of all ages. There’s also plenty of fun to be had in between outs: bouncy houses, lawn games, and hot dogs and Cracker Jack galore.

TA-KUM-TA SOFTBALLATHON

Saturday, September 23, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at Centennial Field in Burlington. $50; preregister. Info, 372-5863, takumta.org.

manchester/ bennington

MCL FILM CLUB: Teen auteurs learn how to bring stories to life on camera. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 362-2607.

THU.21 burlington

GROW PRESCHOOL YOGA: Join Emily from Grow Prenatal and Family Yoga for songs, movement and other fun yoga activities. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 863-3403.

IMAGINATION STATION: See WED.20.

chittenden county

KIDS BOOK CLUB: Kids in kindergarten through grade 2 and their parents read, share and explore the book of the month, provided by the library. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 846-4140, nliuzzi@ southburlingtonvt.gov.

PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH LINDA

BASSICK: The singer and storyteller extraordinaire leads little ones in indoor music and movement. Birth through age 5.

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

PRESCHOOL PLAYTIME: Pre-K patrons play and socialize after music time. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

READ TO A DOG: Kids of all ages get a 10-minute time slot to tell stories to Lola the therapy pup. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, 878-4918.

barre/montpelier

OUTSIDE AFTERSCHOOL: See WED.20. SPECIAL BRAILLE STORY TIME WITH MAE: Preschoolers listen to stories and use their sense of touch to read, play and do crafts. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

stowe/smuggs

WEE ONES PLAY TIME: 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.

mad river valley/ waterbury

PRESCHOOL PLAY & READ: Outdoor activities, stories and songs engage 3- and 4-year-olds. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

FRI.22

chittenden county

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS OPEN PLAY: New and returning players are welcome at this role-playing session, recommended for grades 5 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

THE TINKERING TURTLE GRAND OPENING SHELL-EBRATION: The Queen City’s newest toy store, a collaboration between Vermont Teddy Bear and the Echo Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, opens its doors with a day of fun. The Tinkering Turtle, Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 864-1848.

stowe/smuggs

MUSICAL STORY TIME: Song, dance and other tuneful activities supplement picture books for kids 2 through 5. Morristown Centennial Library, Morrisville, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3853.

TOUCH A TRUCK: Kids of all ages get to explore a bus, a construction vehicle and a fire truck. Bubbles, a bake sale and a truck-themed story time at 11 a.m. round out the event. Morristown Centennial Library, Morrisville, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 888-3853.

upper valley

KIDS MOVIES IN THE AUDITORIUM: The library auditorium is the screening site for these films the whole family will enjoy. Check the website for movie listings. All movies are Rated G. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 8464140, nliuzzi@southburlingtonvt.gov.

LEGO BUILDERS: Each week, children ages 8 and older build, explore, create and participate in challenges. Children ages 6 to 8 are welcome with an adult. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

barre/montpelier

LULLABY PROJECT CELEBRATION

CONCERT: New parents paired with composers present cozy new works created for their babies, performed by Scrag Mountain musicians. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 377-3161. OUTSIDE AFTERSCHOOL: See WED.20.

upper valley

STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

manchester/ bennington

YOUNG ADULT DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Teens battle beasts with swords and spell books. Drop-in and recurring players are welcome. Ages 12 through 16. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 2-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 549-4574.

SAT.23 burlington

FACE PAINTING AND CARICATURES:

Little Artsy Faces and Marc Hughes Illustrations paint faces in more ways than one at the corner of Bank and Church streets. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1648.

TA-KUM-TA SOFTBALLATHON: Families and friends go to bat in this daylong game to support Camp Ta-Kum-Ta’s programs for families impacted by childhood cancer. See calendar spotlight. Centennial Field, Burlington, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $50; preregister. Info, 372-5863, morgan@takumta.org.

GAIL DONOVAN: The author discusses her latest middle-grade novel, Sparrow Being Sparrow, with New Hampshire journalist Sherry Boschert. Norwich Bookstore, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

manchester/ bennington

NOTORIOUS RPG: Kids 10 through 14 create characters and play a collaborative adventure game similar to Dungeons & Dragons. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 1-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 362-2607.

STEAM SATURDAY: Little ones have fun with foundational science and art. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 362-2607.

SUN.24 burlington

FAMILY CONTRA DANCE: No experience is necessary at this all-ages line dance featuring live tunes by Maeve Fairfax and Brian Perkins. StudiOne Dance, Burlington, 1:30-3 p.m. $8-20 suggested donation. Info, calling.luke@gmail.com.

UVM CHILDCARE MINGLER: Parents and their kids meet and mingle with University of Vermont student nannies and babysitters. Davis Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 656-9405.

chittenden county

COMMUNITY BBQ: Vermont Youth Orchestra Association celebrates the start of the season with a cookout, free little ones’ music lesson, open rehearsals and ice cream. Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, noon4 p.m. Free. Info, 655-5030.

LIVE IN THE ORCHARD: STORY TIME WITH LINDSEY STODDARD: Apple pickers eat up stories and songs for kids from the delightful local author. Shelburne Orchards, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.

MON.25 burlington

IMAGINATION STATION: See WED.20. STORIES WITH SHANNON: See WED.20.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

‘KEYS BAGS NAMES WORDS’: In recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day, local organizations screen this new documentary about the realities, both heartbreaking and hopeful, of living with dementia. Latchis Hotel & Theater, Brattleboro, 6:45-9 p.m. Free. Info, 440-1881.

MOVE IT! USE KEYFRAMES TO

ANIMATE YOUR VIDEO!: Editors learn how to manipulate graphics and create dynamic transitions to add depth to their films. RETN & VCAM Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN

WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

food & drink

ARE YOU THIRSTY, NEIGHBOR?:

A special discount cocktail menu sparks conversations and connections over cribbage and cards. Wild Hart Distillery and Tasting Room, Shelburne, 3-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@wildhartdistillery.com.

VERGENNES FARMERS MARKET:

Local foods and crafts, live music, and hot eats spice up Thursday afternoons. Vergennes City Park, 3-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 233-9180.

games

THE CHECK MATES: Chess players of all ages face off at this intergenerational weekly meetup. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 549-4574.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE: A lively group plays a classic, tricky game with an extra wrinkle. Waterbury Public Library, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7223.

health & fitness

MONTHLY SOCIAL BIKE RIDES: Cyclists over 50 connect on an AARP-guided trek, followed by a cool-down at a nearby bar or restaurant. BYO bike. Oakledge Park, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 951-1302.

SIMPLIFIED TAI CHI FOR

SENIORS: Eighteen easy poses help with stress reduction, fall prevention and ease of movement. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 3:15-4 p.m. Donations. Info, 362-2607.

TAI CHI THURSDAYS: Experienced instructor Rich Marantz teaches the first section of the Yang-style tai chi sequence. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 645-1960.

montréal

‘AURA’: See WED.20.

music

BARNARTS FEAST & FIELD

MUSIC SERIES: JENNI & THE

JAZZ JUNKETEERS: Farm-fresh foods and bluesy tunes are on the menu at a pastoral party. Fable

Rock Out

Floods can’t keep the Granite Center of the World down. Barre’s annual Heritage Festival is a stone-cold blowout this year, with reopened businesses and institutions offering a packed schedule of events celebrating the town’s history, culture and resilience. Guests tour the Rock of Ages quarry, the Barre Opera House and the Vermont Granite Museum; chow down at the food trucks in Currier Park; jam out to the head-banging tunes of Rock City and Atom & the Orbits at a flood-relief benefit concert; and enjoy countless other performances, art shows, readings, dance parties and beer gardens.

BARRE HERITAGE FESTIVAL AND HOMECOMING DAYS

Wednesday, September 20, through Saturday, September 23, at various Barre locations. See website for all events and venues. Prices vary. Info, 477-2967, thebarrepartnership.com.

Farm, Barnard, 5:30-8:30 p.m. $525. Info, music@barnarts.org.

BARRE STRONG FLOOD RELIEF

BENEFIT CONCERT & DANCE PARTY: Rock City and Atom & the Orbits get feet stomping at this fundraiser for the Barre Community Relief Fund. Barre Elks Lodge, 7:30-10 p.m. Donations; cash bar. Info, 249-0414.

THROWDOWN THURSDAYS:

Sugarbush hosts a weekly summer shindig featuring live tunes, doubles cornhole tournaments and disc golf competitions. Lincoln Peak Vineyard, New Haven, 5-8 p.m. Free. Info, 552-4007.

politics

THOUGHT CLUB: Artists and activists convene to engage with Burlington’s rich tradition of radical thought and envision its future. Democracy Creative, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, tevan@democracycreative.com.

tech

TECH AND TEXTILES: Crafters work on their knitting or crocheting while discussing questions

such as how to set up a new tablet or what cryptocurrency even is. George Peabody Library, Post Mills, 1-5 p.m. Free. Info, 333-9724.

theater

‘DEVELOPED TO DEATH! A MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

THEATER PRODUCTION’: A killing derails a zoning meeting in this hilarious whodunit and three-course feast featuring Civic Standard Theater Project actors and several local luminaries playing themselves. American Legion Post 7, Hardwick, 6 p.m. $30. Info, thecivicstandard@gmail.com.

words

ANNA NASSET: A dedicated advocate for the prevention of gender-based violence launches her memoir, Now I Speak: From Stalked to Standing Up. Mad River Valley Arts Gallery, Waitsfield, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 496-6682.

INQUISITIVE READERS BOOK

CLUB: Bookworms dig into a new horizon-expanding tome each month. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 6-7 p.m. Free;

preregister. Info, henningsmh@ yahoo.com.

MARILYN WEBB NEAGLEY: The former president of Shelburne farms shares her new lyrical memoir, Attic of Dreams. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 6:307:45 p.m. Free. Info, 388-2061.

SYDNEY LEA & ELLEN BRYANT VOIGT: Two celebrated Vermont poets reflect on their careers, look to the future and read from their latest collections. Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

FRI.22 activism

WORLD CAR-FREE DAY BLOCK

PARTY: Food, e-bike test rides and more environmentally friendly fun packs the park at this celebration of safe streets and walkable neighborhoods. Burlington City Hall Park, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 936-499-3398.

community

VERMONT WOMEN’S FUND

ANNUAL CELEBRATION: “Morning Joe” cohost Mika Brzezinski speaks at a soirée that celebrates the state’s largest philanthropic organization dedicated solely to women and girls. Davis Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 5:30 p.m. $10-125; preregister. Info, 388-3355.

crafts

SCRAPBOOKING GROUP: Cutters and pasters make new friends at a weekly club. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 549-4574.

etc.

MRS. ROPER ROMP: Dressed in caftans and curly wigs, revelers celebrate the beloved “Three’s Company” character with a disco party and bar crawl. Donations benefit Planned Parenthood of Northern New England. Various White River Junction locations,

‘THE MAN WHO LAUGHS’: Ben Model plays a live pipe-organ score to this 1928 silent melodrama whose central, scarred carnival performer inspired the Batman character the Joker. Epsilon Spires, Brattleboro, 8-10 p.m. $10-20. Info, info@epsilonspires.org.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20. ‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

food & drink

AUDUBON SCHOLARSHIP

SPAGHETTI SUPPER: Spaghetti and meatballs are on the menu at this benefit dinner, along with salad, rolls, drinks and dessert. Takeout available. Rutland United Methodist Church, 5-6:30 p.m. $6-12. Info, birding@rutlandcountyaudubon. org.

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY DINNER

6 p.m. $5 suggestion donation. Info, 356-2776.

fairs & festivals

BARRE HERITAGE FESTIVAL & HOMECOMING DAYS: See WED.20, 8 a.m.-midnight.

VERMONT CLIMBING FESTIVAL: Climbers and campers gather for workshops, clinics, competitions, speakers and music to support climbing resource group CRAG Vermont. Cochran’s Ski Area, Richmond, 5-10 p.m. $70. Info, 630-723-4849.

VERMONT WINE & HARVEST

FESTIVAL: Local wine lovers enjoy tastings, leaf peeping, a wine stroll and a soup contest. Various southern Vermont locations, Brattleboro, 5-7 p.m. $15-38. Info, 464-8092.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

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

TRAIN: Travelers savor a threecourse meal and scenic landscape views during a three-hour trip in a kitchen car. Ages 5 and up. Union Station, Burlington, 4-7 p.m. $99-148.50; preregister. Info, 800-707-3530.

OKTOBERFEST VERMONT: The team behind the South End Get Down throws a lager and lederhosen levee to remember, featuring a costume contest, a keg toss and beers from around the world. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 5:30-10 p.m. $20-54.99. Info, oktoberfest@orleansevents.com.

RICHMOND FARMERS MARKET: Vendors present a diverse selection of locally produced foods and crafts as picnickers enjoy music from a different local band each week. Richmond Town Park, 3-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, rfmmanager@ gmail.com.

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.

lgbtq

AN OFF-GRID WOODLAND DANCE PARTY: DJ Fagatron soundtracks queer forest festivities, featuring fresh pizza from Fat Dragon Farm. BYOB. Sable Project, Stockbridge, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, bex@thesable project.org.

montréal

‘AURA’: See WED.20.

music

FOUR SHILLINGS SHORT: Hailing from Ireland and California, respectively, husband and wife Aodh Og O’Tuama and Christy Martin have 12 independent folk recordings to their names. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $15-25 suggested donation. Info, 985-5124.

HALCYON CHORALE: Power, precision and palpable joy characterize the crystalline vocals of this incomparable choir. York Street

COURTESY OF SHANNON ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY

Meeting House, Lyndon, 7-9 p.m. $15-20. Info, 748-2600.

HIMALAYAN HIGHWAY: Nepali folk music and American bluegrass combine in beautiful harmony when these four friends take the stage. Integrated Arts Academy, Burlington, 7 p.m. Donations. Info, 233-5293.

PLAY EVERY TOWN: Prolific pianist David Feurzeig continues a four-year, statewide series of shows in protest of highpollution worldwide concert tours. North Ferrisburgh United Methodist Church, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3819.

UVM LANE SERIES: KAVITA

SHAH & CAPE VERDEAN BLUES: Jazz-inflected vocals meet traditional island tunes when this exceptional singer and her longtime collaborators take the stage. University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $6.50-34. Info, 656-4455.

theater

‘DEVELOPED TO DEATH! A MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

THEATER PRODUCTION’: See THU.21.

‘TIME STANDS STILL’: In this drama from Green Room Productions, two journalists must leave the front lines of war and face an even greater terror: a conventional life in Brooklyn among their basic friends. Off Center for the Dramatic Arts, Burlington, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $20. Info, theoffcenter@gmail.com.

words RAY PADGETT: An interview with the author of Pledging My Time: Conversations With Bob Dylan Band Members precedes a lively cover set by Eastern Mountain Time. The Phoenix, Waterbury, 7-9 p.m. $10-35. Info, 355-5440.

SAT.23 activism

BISSONETTE BBQ: Burlington

Tenants United throws a bash for tenants of Bissonette Properties and other landlords to connect over burgers and learn about renters’ collective bargaining power. 116 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 391-0688.

dance

‘CINDERELLA’: If the shoe fits, wear it! Forty international dancers from the World Ballet Series tell this timeless tale with fabulous flair. The Flynn, Burlington, 7 p.m. $55-89. Info, 863-5966.

FALL CONTRA DANCE!: Live music soundtracks line dances and tasty food fuels the festivities at this all-ages, all-levels shindig. Unitarian Church of Rutland, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 775-0850.

I LOVE WHAT YOU’RE DOING: Local dancers celebrate the fall equinox and their community while showcasing excerpts of their works and an array of dance styes. Donations support Vermont flood relief efforts. Capital City Grange, Berlin,

7-8:30 p.m. Donations. Info, 415-595-8848.

environment

INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP: Rozalia Project and partners clear the Lake Champlain shores of debris. A trash sort on Church Street follows. Community Sailing Center, Burlington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, info@rozaliaproject.org. etc.

FREE STUDENT SATURDAY: College students peruse the museum’s collections for free once a week all month long. Student ID required. Shelburne Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 985-3346.

fairs & festivals

25TH ANNUAL AUTUMN ROUND UP ANTIQUE ENGINE & MACHINERY SHOW: Vintage farm equipment, cars, trucks and campers are on display, alongside homemade ice cream, pies and a flea market. On-site camping and a potluck on Saturday night supper round out the event. Barker Farm, Ludlow, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $5 for adults; kids/ exhibitors free. Info, 238-5652.

AFTERGLOW: A MUSIC FESTIVAL

TO SHINE THE LIGHT ON SUICIDE AWARENESS: Fairgoers listen to NYC’s RUBIX KUBE, Troy Millette & the Fire Below, and Cozy while sampling snacks, a cash bar and family-friendly activities. Rain or shine. Hard’ack Recreation Area, St. Albans, 1-9 p.m. $35; free for ages 16 and under accompanied by an adult. Info, 363-0019.

BARRE HERITAGE FESTIVAL & HOMECOMING DAYS: See WED.20, 7:30 a.m.-midnight.

BRISTOL HARVEST FESTIVAL

2023: The Addison County Chamber’s and the Bristol Recreation Department’s harvest fest features crafters, vendors, demonstrations and live music. Bristol Town Green, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 388-7951.

VERMONT CLIMBING FESTIVAL: See FRI.22, 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

VERMONT LIVING HISTORY

EXPO: Historical reenactments, exhibits and live demos are on display for all ages to enjoy at indoor and outdoor venues.

Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction, 10 a.m. $0-30. Info, 778-9178.

VERMONT WINE & HARVEST FESTIVAL: See FRI.22, 11 a.m.5 p.m.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

food & drink

BURLINGTON FARMERS MARKET: Dozens of stands

overflow with seasonal produce, flowers, artisanal wares and prepared foods. 345 Pine St., Burlington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 560-5904.

CAPITAL CITY FARMERS MARKET:

Meats and cheeses join farm-fresh produce, baked goods, locally made arts and crafts, and live music. Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, montpelierfarmersmarket@ gmail.com.

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY DINNER

TRAIN: See FRI.22.

NORTHWEST FARMERS

MARKET: Locavores stock up on produce, preserves, baked goods, and arts and crafts from over 50 vendors. Taylor Park, St. Albans, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 242-2729.

OKTOBERFEST VERMONT: See FRI.22, 4:30-9 p.m.

ST. JOHNSBURY FARMERS

MARKET: Growers and crafters gather weekly at booths centered on local eats. Pearl St. & Eastern Ave., St. Johnsbury, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, cfmamanager@gmail. com.

games

CHESS CLUB: Players of all ages and abilities face off and learn new strategies. ADA accessible. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

health & fitness

MILES FOR MIGRAINE

BURLINGTON: Walkers and runners take steps to support UVM’s local migraine research and fellowship training programs. 5K run is professionally timed. Veterans Memorial Park, South Burlington, 8:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 598-0998.

VERMONT WALK TO DEFEAT

ALS: Families, friends and caregivers impacted by ALS join the fight to find a cure. Music, ice cream and awards follow. Oakledge Park, Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 413-320-2075.

lgbtq

FALL IN LOVE BALL: Galen

Blodgett hosts an epic equinox party featuring drag queen makeup demos, suit measurements, a dance party, and performances by the likes of Amy Leigh Celestial, Bethadone Clinique and Carmen Gettit. Catamount ArtPort, St. Johnsbury, 6-11 p.m. $20. Info, 748-2600.

REMEMBERING ANDREWS INN & QUEER ARCHIVES COLLECTION: Vermont Folklife interviewers record stories from LGBTQ locals, followed by an Out in the Open panel discussion of the legendary Bellows Falls gay disco, hotel and community center. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, 10 a.m.8 p.m. Free. Info, 257-0124.

WRJ PRIDE FESTIVAL & CLINIC: Rescheduled due to thunderstorms, this LGBTQ Pride party

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

• BETA Technologies

• Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman

• Data Innovations

• Gallagher Flynn & Company, LLP

• Gravel & Shea

• HPI

• Hula

• KORE Power

• Marvell

• National

and STD testing clinic powers on. Main Street Museum, White River Junction, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 356-2776.

montréal

‘AURA’: See WED.20, 7 & 9 p.m.

music

ATOM & THE ORBITS: 1950s rock and roll meets Louisiana dancehall for an evening of out-of-thisworld grooves. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 7 p.m. Pay what you can. Info, 728-9878.

BOB AND SARAH AMOS BAND: The father-daughter duo finds perfect harmony while performing original and classic bluegrass and folk songs. Meeting House on the Green, East Fairfield, 5-7 p.m. $10; free for kids under 12. Info, 827-6626.

BRASS & BBQ: Dinner and a show by the Champlain Brass Quintet funds accessibility renovations at the opera house. Vergennes Opera House, 6 p.m. $25; cash bar. Info, 877-6737.

CHRIS SMITHER: The acoustic bluesman draws from decades of beloved tunes. The Suitcase Junket opens. Bellows Falls Opera House, 7:30 p.m. $18.50-45. Info, 451-0053.

CONANT: Equally inspired by joy and despair, the Vermont musician and lyricist blends the folk tradition with a modern style that’s full of depth and honesty. Burlington City Hall Park, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

DANIEL HIGGS + CHRIS WEISMAN: The Lungfish singer and the Brattleboro songwriter, respectively, deliver kaleidoscopic sounds and interdimensional melodies. Epsilon Spires, Brattleboro, 8-10 p.m. $1020. Info, info@epsilonspires.org.

LIVE IN THE ORCHARD: QUEEN CITY CUT UPS: Orchard goers enjoy the improvisational strains of this Burlington acoustic band. Shelburne Orchards, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.

LUCY CHAPIN: A Vermont-based singer-songwriter spans genres with her folk, blues and country sounds. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Upper Valley, Norwich, 7 p.m. $15. Info, 649-8828.

PLAY EVERY TOWN: See FRI.22. Salisbury Congregational Church.

WHAT DOTH LIFE: The local band and three guest acts rock out to support WRJ Pride. Main Street Museum, White River Junction, 8 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, 356-2776.

outdoors

ALL THINGS GARDENING

HARVEST PARTY: Growers gather at the Barton Community Giving Garden to mark the end of harvest season with learning, food and friendship. Barton Public Library, 1-3 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, events@vermontpublic.org.

Spooky Season

You may know Thea Lewis as the hair-raisingly riveting — and Seven Daysie awardwinning! — tour guide behind Queen City Ghostwalk, but you might be spooked to know that she is also a prolific author. From Wicked Vermont and Ghosts and Legends of Lake Champlain to the picture book There’s a Witch in My Sock Drawer!, there is perhaps no one more knowledgeable about all things uncanny in the Champlain Valley. Lewis launches her latest, True Crime Stories of Burlington, Vermont, at Burlington’s Phoenix Books to kick off Halloween season with spine-tingling tales of corrupt cops, jilted lovers and serial killers that went bump in the night.

THEA LEWIS

Monday, September 25, 7 p.m., at Phoenix Books in Burlington. $3; preregister. Info, 448-3350, phoenixbooks.biz.

sports

CHASE AWAY 5K: Families and pets run/walk to support Chase Away K9 Cancer. Race bib is also entry ticket to Wag It Forward, a festival for pets, following the race. Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction, 9-11 a.m. $25-40. Info, vthounds@gmail.com.

THE POINT TO POINT: Bicyclists choose courses between 10 and 110 miles or virtual options in VSECU’s renowned bike race to raise money for the Vermont Foodbank. Vermont Statehouse lawn, 6 a.m.-6:30 p.m. $40, plus $150 fundraising commitment; preregister. Info, 371-5120.

talks

TEDXHARTLANDHILL: A packed schedule of local speakers, including acclaimed poet Shanta Lee and Jen Ellis of Bernie’s mittens fame, expound upon the theme “The Art of Living.” Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 8:30 a.m.6 p.m. $55-600; preregister. Info, info@tedxhartlandhill.org.

theater

‘DEVELOPED TO DEATH! A MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

THEATER PRODUCTION’: See THU.21, 1 & 6 p.m.

‘TIME STANDS STILL’: See FRI.22, 2-4 & 7:30-9:30 p.m.

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

Burlington, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.20, 1-3 p.m.

fairs & festivals

25TH ANNUAL AUTUMN

ROUND UP ANTIQUE ENGINE & MACHINERY SHOW: See SAT.23.

ALEXANDER TWILIGHT DAY: Fall fun marks the birthday of the country’s first Black state legislator and the 200th anniversary of his historic graduation from Middlebury College. Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village, Brownington, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 754-2022.

FALL FESTIVAL: Bluegrass, a live auction, and chicken and biscuits for dinner benefit Slate Valley Cares. The Wedding Barn at Kingston Place, Benson, 4-7 p.m. $35; cash bar. Info, 265-3666.

VERMONT CLIMBING FESTIVAL: See FRI.22, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

VERMONT LIVING HISTORY

EXPO: See SAT.23.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN

WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

food & drink

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY DINNER

TRAIN: See FRI.22.

words

CALL AND RESPONSE: TWO POETS HAVING A VERY BLACK CONVERSATION THROUGH

SPOKEN WORD: In a call-andresponse dialogue, Rajnii Eddins and H. “Herukhuti” Sharif Williams share their work and the experiences that inspired them. Q&A and book signing to follow.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

THE POETRY EXPERIENCE: Rajnii Eddins hosts a local writing and sharing circle. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

SAMN STOCKWELL: The poet captivates audiences with verses from her newest collection, Musical Figures. Waterbury Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

SUN.24 community

MONTHLY SPIN-IN FOR YARN

SPINNERS: Experienced spinners and the fiber-curious alike drop in to this fun meetup. BYO fiber and tools. Fletcher Free Library,

breathtaking view of Montréal from Île Saint-Hélène, aka St. Helen’s Island. Parc JeanDrapeau, Montréal, 4-10 p.m. $22-47; preregister. Info, info@ piknicelectronik.com.

music

BETHANY BLAKE: A harpsichord player and organist performs music by French and German composers. First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 3 p.m. $20 suggested donation; free for kids under 18. Info, 878-5745.

GLENN ROTH: A guitarist weaves stunning soundscapes with his flying fingers. Shelburne Vineyard, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8222.

GRACE COOLIDGE MUSICALE NO.

3: PIANO AND CELLO: Motherdaughter duo Cecylia Barczyk and Elizabeth Borowsky play variations by Beethoven, Paganini and Handel. President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Plymouth, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 672-1195.

THE LARKSPURS: A Vermontbased trio blends folk, rock, blues and country tunes. Old Round Church, Richmond, 4 p.m. $3-12. Info, 434-3654.

LIVE IN THE ORCHARD: ROWAN: Harps, banjos and mandolins lend their sounds to ancient and original Celtic folk tunes. Shelburne Orchards, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.

outdoors

FALL FOREST BATHING: Folks unplug, slow down and experience fabulous foliage during a guided mindfulness practice. Red Rocks Park, South Burlington, 1-4 p.m. $25-45. Info, 399-1618.

STOWE FARMERS MARKET: An appetizing assortment of fresh veggies, meats, milk, berries, herbs, beverages and crafts tempts shoppers. 2043 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, stowefarmersmarket@gmail. com.

WINOOSKI FARMERS MARKET: Families shop for fresh produce, honey, meats, coffee and prepared foods from more seasonal vendors at an outdoor marketplace. Winooski Falls Way, 10 a.m.2 p.m. Free. Info, 655-6410.

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.

lgbtq

BIG GAY BLOCK PARTY: A lineup including TÖth, Kalbells and DJ GENDERENDER closes out Burlington’s Pride Month with a bang. Ages 21 and up. The Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 4 p.m.-midnight. $20-30. Info, hammydownmusic@gmail.com.

montréal

PIKNIC ÉLECTRONIK MONTRÉAL: A weekly throwdown pairs topquality electronic music with a

GMC HIKE: HARRINGTON’S VIEW/ LONG TRAIL: The Green Mountain Club leads hikers up Duck Brook Trail to a peak overlooking Bolton Valley. Harrington’s View, Richmond, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, 318-8104.

words

SYDNEY LEA: The former Vermont poet laureate celebrates the publication of his 16th collection, What Shines. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

WORDS OUT LOUD: SARAH

AUDSLEY & NADINE BUDBILL: Two wordsmiths discuss poetry, place and the passage of time. A reception at the Kents’ Corner State Historic Site follows. Old West Church, Calais, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-6613.

MON.25

BERNS: Female business owners get their pressing questions answered in a relaxed virtual info session from the Center for Women & Enterprise. 5-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, 391-4872.

crafts

KNIT WITS: Fiber-working friends get together to make progress on their quilts, knitwear and needlework. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 362-2607.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING:

Instructor Pauline Nolte leads experienced painters and new dabblers in four weekly sessions. All supplies provided. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free, space is limited; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

health & fitness

ADVANCED TAI CHI: Experienced movers build strength, improve balance and reduce stress. Holley Hall, Bristol, 11 a.m.-noon. Free; donations accepted. Info, jerry@ skyrivertaichi.com.

LAUGHTER YOGA: Spontaneous, joyful movement and breath promote physical and emotional health. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, chrisn@pathwaysvermont.org.

LONG-FORM SUN 73: Beginners and experienced practitioners learn how tai chi can help with arthritis, mental clarity and range

of motion. Holley Hall, Bristol, 11 a.m.-noon. Free; donations accepted. Info, wirlselizabeth@ gmail.com.

YANG 24: This simplified tai chi method is perfect for beginners looking to build strength and balance. Congregational Church of Middlebury, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, wirlselizabeth@gmail.com.

language

ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: Locals learning English as a second language gather in the Digital Lab to build vocabulary and make friends. ADA accessible. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

ITALIAN BOOK CLUB: Intermediate-level Italian

speakers and readers meet to discuss Come D’Aria by Ada D’Adamo. ADA accessible. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:1511:15 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

montréal

‘AURA’: See WED.20.

music

PAT METHENY: The jazz guitar legend demonstrates the improvisational genius that helped him reinvent the art. The Flynn, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $35-59. Info, 863-5966.

words

ADDISON COUNTY WRITERS

COMPANY: Poets, playwrights, novelists and memoirists of every experience level meet weekly for an MFA-style workshop. Swift

House Inn, Middlebury, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, jay@zigzaglitmag.org.

THEA LEWIS: The Queen City Ghostwalk tour guide kicks off spooky season with the launch of her new collection of hair-raising histories, True Crime Stories of Burlington, Vermont. See calendar spotlight. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 7 p.m. $3; preregister. Info, 448-3350.

TUE.26 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

MORRIS & MORE: Dancers of all abilities learn how to step, clog and even sword fight their way through medieval folk dances of all kinds. Revels North, Lebanon, N.H., 6 p.m. Pay what you can. Info, 603-558-7894.

SWING DANCING: Local Lindy hoppers and jitterbuggers convene at Vermont Swings’ weekly boogie-down. Bring clean shoes. Beginner lessons, 6:30 p.m. Champlain Club, Burlington, 7:309 p.m. $5. Info, 864-8382.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section. ‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

TUE.26 » P.72

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20. ‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

food & drink

NORTHFIELD FARMERS MARKET: A gathering place for local farmers, producers and artisans offers fresh produce, crafts and locally prepared foods. Depot Square, Northfield, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 485-8586.

OLD NORTH END FARMERS

MARKET: Fresh local produce, bread, honey and prepared food bring good vibes to the Queen City’s melting pot. Dewey Park, Burlington, 3-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 355-3910.

games

‘THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE’: Overthe-top prizes reward contestants in this interactive stage show. Visit the box office two hours early for the chance to compete. The Flynn, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $39-229. Info, 863-5966.

health & fitness

THE 8 BROCADES: Librarian Judi Byron leads students in the ancient Chinese practice of Ba Duan Jin qigong. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

TAI CHI TUESDAY: Patrons get an easy, informal introduction to this ancient movement practice that supports balance and strength. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 9-10:15 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 362-2607.

language

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS: Instructor Andrea Thulin helps non-native speakers build their

vocabulary and conversation skills. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 5:307 p.m. Free. Info, 549-4574.

PAUSE-CAFÉ FRENCH

CONVERSATION: Francophones and French-language learners meet pour parler la belle langue Burlington Bay Market & Café, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 343-5493.

montréal

‘AURA’: See WED.20.

music

COMMUNITY SINGERS: A weekly choral meetup welcomes all singers to raise their voices along to traditional (and not-so-traditional) songs. Revels North, Lebanon, N.H., 7:30 p.m. Pay what you can. Info, 603-558-7894.

outdoors

AUDUBON/SLATE VALLEY BIRD

WALK: A slow, all-levels threemile trek gets birders invigorated by sightings of autumn passersby. Delaney Woods Trail, Wells, 7:3010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 598-2583.

BRIDGET BUTLER: The Bird Diva herself gives a photo-filled presentation on avian autumn migration. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 1 p.m. Free.

tech

AFTERNOON TECH HELP: Experts answer questions about phones, laptops, e-readers and more in one-on-one sessions. ADA accessible. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

words

BROWN BAG BOOK CLUB: Readers digest The Ride of Her Life by Elizabeth Letts over lunch. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library,

manchester/ bennington

Williston, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

BURLINGTON

LITERATURE GROUP:

ORHAN PAMUK: Readers analyze the Nobel Prize-winning author’s novel My Name Is Red over five weeks. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@nereadersandwriters.com.

LESLIE SAINZ: The acclaimed Cuban American wordsmith celebrates the release of her debut poetry collection, Have You Been Long Enough at Table. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

POETRY GROUP: A supportive verse-writing workshop welcomes those who would like feedback on their work or who are just happy to listen. ADA accessible. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 846-4140.

THOMAS REED: The author of Seeking Hyde reads from and discusses his new novel, Pocketful of Poseys. Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

WED.27 activism

JAMIE MCCALLUM: The Middlebury College sociology professor examines how the pandemic has changed the labor movement. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 262-2626.

business

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS

NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL

GROUP: See WED.20.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF FRANKLIN COUNTY LAUNCH

EVENT: Business-oriented twenty-, thirty- and fortysomethings

chittenden county

QUIET KIDS’ READ-IN: Introverted youngsters enjoy a reading time replete with snacks and soft sounds after school. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

barre/montpelier

OUTSIDE AFTERSCHOOL: See WED.20.

POKÉMON CLUB: I choose you, Pikachu! Fans of the franchise — and beginners, too — trade cards and play games outside at the picnic tables. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

upper valley

STORY TIME WITH BETH: A bookseller and librarian extraordinaire reads two picture books on a different theme each week. Norwich Bookstore, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

NEW MOMS’ GROUP: Local doula Kimberleigh Weiss-Lewitt facilitates a community-building weekly meetup for mothers who are new to parenting or the area. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 549-4574.

TUE.26 burlington

SING ALONG WITH LINDA BASSICK: Infants, toddlers and preschoolers dance, wiggle and sing with local musician/early educator Linda Bassick. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

CRAFTYTOWN: Kids get crafty and take home a creation after every session. Projects are geared for children ages 8 and older. Younger kids are welcome with an adult. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

learn about a new group’s mission and membership benefits. Jeff’s Maine Seafood, St. Albans, 5-7 p.m. Free; preregister; cash bar. Info, info@fcrccvt.com.

community

CURRENT EVENTS: Neighbors have an informal discussion about what’s in the news. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.20.

dance

WESTIE WEDNESDAYS DANCE: See WED.20.

education

WIRED WEDNESDAYS: AVOIDING DIGITAL SCAMS: Real world examples help to identify and avoid digital scams, while staying safe on the internet. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D’: See WED.20.

‘KEYS BAGS NAMES WORDS’: See THU.21. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 6:45-9 p.m. Free. Info, 440-1881.

‘MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WILD AFRICA 3D’: See WED.20.

‘WINGS OVER WATER 3D’: See WED.20.

food & drink

ALL ABOUT FOOD: A FOOD LOVERS’ GROUP: A monthly

PLAYGROUP & FAMILY SUPPORT:

Families with children under age 5 play and connect with others in the community. Winooski Memorial Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Little ones enjoy a cozy session of reading, rhyming and singing. Birth through age

5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

SEPTEMBER SCIENCE: Painting and playing with magnets help elementaryage learners understand various STEAM concepts. Ages 6 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 5-5:45 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

TODDLERTIME: Miss Alexa delights infants and toddlers ages 1 to 3 and their adult caregivers with interactive stories, songs, rhymes and more. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

barre/montpelier

OUTSIDE AFTERSCHOOL: See WED.20.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Energetic youngsters join Miss Meliss on the lawn for stories, songs and lots of silliness. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

discussion group samples new topics of tasty conversation at every meeting. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 2-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 549-4574.

COMMUNITY SUPPER: See WED.20.

games

MAH-JONGG OPEN PLAY: See WED.20.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: See WED.20.

SEATED & STANDING YOGA: See WED.20.

VERMONT SUICIDE PREVENTION

SYMPOSIUM: See WED.20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

language

BEGINNER IRISH LANGUAGE

CLASS: See WED.20.

ELL CLASSES: ENGLISH FOR BEGINNERS & INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS: See WED.20.

montréal

‘AURA’: See WED.20.

music

JAZZ CAFE: NEW KANON JAZZ

TRIO: Rutland area saxophonist and music teacher Zachary Hampton selects some of his favorite jams for a special appearance with the trio.

BYOB. Stone Valley Arts, Poultney, 7 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, stonevalleyartscenter@gmail.com.

LIVE IN THE ORCHARD: THE MEATPACKERS: See WED.20.

ZACH NUGENT UNCORKED: See WED.20.

seminars

MENTOR TRAINING FOR JUSTICE-INVOLVED WOMEN: See WED.20.

manchester/ bennington

STORY TIME: Youth librarian Carrie leads little tykes in stories and songs centered on a new theme every week. Birth through age 5. Manchester Community Library, Manchester Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 362-2607.

WED.27

burlington

BABYTIME: See WED.20.

IMAGINATION STATION: See WED.20.

STEAM SPACE: See WED.20.

STORIES WITH SHANNON: See WED.20.

TODDLER TIME: See WED.20.

chittenden county

BABY SOCIAL TIME: See WED.20.

LEGO FUN: Budding architects and engineers use their imaginations and the classic blocks to build creations to display in the library. Children under 8 must bring a caregiver. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

SORTING THE NEWS FROM THE CHAFF: Veteran journalist and educator Mark Timney shares strategies for evaluating sources. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, 878-4918.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE TENNIS CLUB: See WED.20.

theater

‘CADILLAC CREW’: Vermont Stage’s latest production follows four female Civil Rights activists on the eve of a landmark Rosa Parks speech. Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $24-64. Info, 862-1497.

‘GLORY DENIED’: Opera Company of Middlebury presents the Vermont premiere of Tom Cipullo’s soaring score, inspired by the true story of Vietnam prisoner of war Jim Thompson. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7:30 p.m. $57-77; free for veterans and guests under 26. Info, 382-9222.

words

DAYTON J. SHAFER: Performance and poetry merge in the author’s chapbook Homeslice. Presented by Kellogg-Hubbard Library. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 223-3338.

FRIENDS BOOK SALE: Booklovers find great bargains at the annual Friends of the Fletcher Free Library book sale. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403. ➆

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: COOKING: See WED.20.

barre/montpelier

CHESS CLUB: See WED.20. OUTSIDE AFTERSCHOOL: See WED.20.

mad river valley/ waterbury

LEGO CHALLENGE CLUB: Kids engage in a fun-filled hour of building, then leave their creations on display in the library all month long. Ages 9 through 11. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

manchester/ bennington

MCL FILM CLUB: See WED.20.

randolph/royalton

FAMILY-FRIENDLY MUSHROOM MEANDER: Melany Kahn, author of the kids’ foraging book Mason Goes Mushrooming, leads fun guys of all ages through the forest in search of fungi. Allis State Park, Randolph, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, abelisle2@comcast.net. K

How

WED., SEP. 20 FOAM BREWERS, BURLINGTON

Queen City Ghostwalk Ghosts & Legends of Lake Champlain Tour

WED., SEP. 20 UNION STATION, BURLINGTON

Queen City Ghostwalk

Darkness Falls Tour

FRI., SEP. 22

COURTHOUSE PLAZA, BURLINGTON

Voidbearer with Keepsake, In Shallows

FRI., SEP. 22

THE UNDERGROUND, RANDOLPH

Brunch & Blooms

SAT., SEP. 23

ANDERBELL ACRES, MONTPELIER

An Orange on a Delft Blue Plate: Poetry with Elizabeth Powell

SAT., SEP. 23

KARMA BIRD HOUSE, BURLINGTON

French Macarons 101

SAT., SEP. 23

RICHMOND COMMUNITY KITCHEN, RICHMOND

e Chad Hollister Band

SAT., SEP. 23

SOLD OUT

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.

art

2D ROBOTS FOR GRADES K-3: Become a robot designer and engage your imagination through drawing and printmaking. Will your robot have a task/purpose? How will it move? What colors/materials will it need? Children will design imaginative, mechanical and geometric robot prints using Legos and practice drawing skills, shading, printmaking, problem solving, collaboration and more!

Every Fri., Oct. 6-27, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Cost: $140 for 4 meetings. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryartcamp@gmail.com, campmeade.today.

AFTERSCHOOL GLASSMAKING:

Practice the real-life magic of glassmaking! Kids will explore this mesmerizing art form through techniques of fusing and blowing glass. Glassmaker Sam Lightner will guide students through fun projects that result in very cool objects to take home — enchanted wizard wands, colorful pumpkins, ornaments, jewelry pieces and more! Every Wed., Oct. 4-Nov. 15, 4-6 p.m. Cost: $305 for 7 meetings, incl. materials.

Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryart camp@gmail.com, campmeade. today.

FIGURE DRAWING NIGHT!:

Please join us for an evening of figure drawing at Soapbox Arts in the Soda Plant, hosted by Ana Koehler of Devotion. A live nude model will be in short and long poses. Bring your own drawing supplies. Please no wet supplies such as inks or paints. All drawing levels welcome. Ages 18-plus only. Mon., Sep. 25, 6 p.m. Cost: $20. Location: 266 Pine St., Ste. 119, Burlington. Info: 617-290-5405, sevendaystickets.com.

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS:

Come explore your love of drawing and nature at Camp Meade! We will explore mark making on paper, matching this “drawing alphabet” to the textures and shapes of nature through close observation, then using this alphabet to tell a visual story about the things in nature that fascinate us. Sat., Oct. 7, 10-11 a.m.

Cost: $20. Location: 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802279-3148, planetaryartcamp@ gmail.com, campmeade.today.

PLAYING WITH COLOR

WORKSHOP: A workshop exploring how our perception of color influences how we make and appreciate art. Using color-focused art projects, we’ll learn about color vision and how our brains process visual information and explore contrasting and equiluminant colors to better understand how our brains shape our perceptions of art. Sat., Oct. 28, 1-3 p.m. Cost: $40. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Camp Meade, Annie Sklar, 802-2793148, planetaryartcamp@gmail. com, campmeade.today.

SCRATCH PAINT SPIDERWEBS: Intricate and delicate spiderwebs are visually fascinating subjects for art. In this workshop, we will explore an unconventional approach to capturing webs using acrylic scratch paint. Participants will learn how to prepare DIY scratch paint from any acrylic paint, test different scratch tools and make their own web illustration. Sat., Oct. 28, 10-11 a.m. Cost: $25.

Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryart camp@gmail.com, campmeade. today.

PAINTING WITH MUSHROOMS:

Maybe you’ve foraged, grown or eaten mushrooms, but have you painted with them? Many mushrooms and lichens can be used to make inks in a spectrum of earthy colors. Rachel Mirus will demonstrate the ink-making process with local lichens and mushrooms that produce color and experiment with making art using mushroom inks. Sat., Oct. 7, 1-2 p.m. Cost: $25. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryartcamp@gmail.com, campmeade.today.

language

JAPANESE LANGUAGE CLASSES:

e Japan America Society of Vermont will offer 10 weekly, interactive, online Japanese language classes at various levels in fall 2023, starting in October. Please join us for an introduction to speaking, listening, reading and writing Japanese, with emphasis on the conversational patterns used in everyday life.

Weekly, 7-8:30 p.m. Level 1: Mon. Level 2: Tue. Level 3: Wed. Level 5: u. Cost: $200 for 10 weeks.

Location: Online. Info: 802-8258335, jasvlanguage@gmail.com, jasv.org/v2/language.

music

JAZZ IMPROV LAB: Calling all high school jazzers! In this 6-session class, jazz pianist, composer and educator Bruce Sklar will guide students through the process of preparing and practicing for auditions, with a focus on developing students’ improvisation skills using repertoire drawn from Vermont’s regional and All-State Music Festival audition requirements. Mondays, Oct. 2-Nov. 20; no class Oct. 9 & 30. Cost: $185/6 meetings. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryartcamp@gmail.com, campmeade.today.

WORLD DRUMMING

WEDNESDAYS!: Free intro workshops on Sat., Sep. 23! Kids & Parents Djembe, ages 6+, 10 a.m. Adult Intro Djembe, 12:30 p.m. Weekly Wednesday classes for kids & parents, 4-5:30 p.m. Adult Djembe, 5:30-7 p.m. Conga Beginners, 7-8:30 p.m. Drums provided. Four-week classes start Oct. 4. Our space is next to Nomad Coffee. Location: 208 Flynn Ave, Burlington. Info: Stuart, 802-999-4255, classes@ burlingtontaiko.org,.

tai chi

MIDDLE SCHOOL JAZZ LAB: Become a hip cat — learn to speak the language of jazz! Students will work with renowned jazz pianist, composer and educator Bruce Sklar to learn the musical skills and vocabulary of improvisation while exploring their own creative voices as artists. Open to middle school students who play any instrument, including vocalists. Mondays, Oct. 2-Nov. 20; no class Oct. 9 & 30. Cost: $185/6 meetings. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryartcamp@gmail.com, campmeade.today.

NEW BEGINNER TAI CHI CLASS: We practice Cheng Man-ch’ing’s “simplified” 37-posture Yang-style form. e course will be taught by Patrick Cavanaugh, a longtime student and assistant to Wolfe Lowenthal; Wolfe is a direct student of Cheng Man-ch’ing and founder of Long River Tai Chi Circle. Opportunities for learning online are also available! Starts Oct. 4, 9-10 a.m.; registration open until Oct. 25.

Cost: $65/mo. Location: Gym at St. Anthony’s Church, 305 Flynn Ave., Burlington. Info: Long River Tai Chi Circle, Patrick Cavanaugh, 802490-6405, patrick@longrivertaichi. org, longrivertaichi.org.

well-being

VISION CAMP LIVE: Get a personal blueprint to get unstuck, gain clarity, build confidence and design a life you love! Gain a complete blueprint to transform your life, including a five-point test to determine your next steps, tools to dissolve resistance, a system to accelerate your results, and strategies to eliminate fear, doubt and worry. Sat., Oct. 28, 10 a.m. Cost: $47-87. Location: Town Hall eater, 68 S. Pleasant St., Middlebury. Info: Coach Christal, 919-292-9305, sevendaystickets. com.

writing

HORROR WRITING WORKSHOP FOR TEENS: Four-week writing workshop with Vermont author Ann Dávila Cardinal. We’ll discuss what scares us, the world of horror literature and films, and how to write a story that grabs readers and doesn’t let them go. Bring a laptop, paper and ink (or

the blood of your enemies), and be ready to write! Every Wed., Oct. 4-25. Cost: $105 for 4 meetings. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: Annie Sklar, 802-279-3148, planetaryart camp@gmail.com, campmeade. today.

yoga

AYURVEDIC INTEGRATION

PROGRAM: Learn to integrate Ayurveda as lifestyle medicine that can prevent or reverse chronic disease; increase energy; promote longevity; and reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Specialized seasonal and daily Ayurvedic routines, holistic nutrition, stress-reduction techniques, and self-care will be taught. Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2023: Oct. 14-15, Nov. 4-5, Dec. 2-3; 2024: Jan. 6-7, Feb. 3-4, Mar. 9-10, Apr. 6-7, May 4-5, Jun. 8-9, Jul. 13-14. Cost: $2,895/200-hour program. Location: e Ayurvedic Center of Vermont, 34 Oak Hill Rd., Williston. Info: Allison Morse, 802-872-8898, info@ayurveda vermont.com, ayurvedavermont. com.

TAIKO TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS!: Kids & Parents

Taiko, Tue. & u., 4-5:30 p.m. Adult Intro Taiko, Tue. & u., 5:30-7 p.m. Accelerated Taiko, 7-8:30 p.m. Drums provided! Four-week classes. Visit our space next to Nomad Coffee. Location: 208 Flynn Ave, Burlington. Info: Stuart, 802-999-4255, classes@ burlingtontaiko.org.

County

AGE/SEX: 7-year-old spayed female

ARRIVAL DATE: July 25, 2023

SUMMARY: Abby came to HSCC via animal control after she was found tied up outside our local McDonald’s. We don’t know Abby’s history and can’t predict who she will be in her new home, but we can say she is darn sweet! While in our care, Abby has been social and friendly. She very much wants to be with people, and we suspect she’ll do best in a home where her new family works from home or has a flexible schedule. Abby’s new family should be up for getting to know her — it may take weeks to months for her personality to blossom and shine.

DOGS/CATS/KIDS: Abby has been uncomfortable with other dogs at HSCC, so she’s looking for a home with no dogs. Her history with cats and kids is unknown.

Visit the Humane Society of Chittenden County at 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 862-0135 or visit hsccvt.org for more info.

DID YOU KNOW?

All HSCC dogs are available for Foster-to-Adopt! When you Foster-to-Adopt a dog, you can bring a dog home for a week and get to know them before committing to adoption.

Sponsored by:

CLASSIFIEDS

on the road

CARS/TRUCKS

2010 GMC TERRAIN

103,500 miles.

6-cylinder. Inspected, no rust. Sunroof, heated leather seats, hitch, backup camera. Silver, like-new. New brakes. Asking $8,500. Call

802-355-4099.

2015 CHEVY SPARK

Fresh new inspection w/ Sep. 2024 sticker.

5-speed manual. Extra set of rims & snow tires. Needs nothing & runs great. Call or text

802-578-6938.

housing FOR RENT

4-BR HOUSE IN SHELBURNE

4-BR, 1 full & 2 half BA. 86 Hullcrest La., Shelburne. $3,500/mo. + utils. Avail. now. No pets. Email 802draco@ gmail.com.

HOUSEMATES

HOMESHARE W/ LOVING PETS

So. Burlington: Mid-30s professional w/ lovable dog & cat seeks LGBTQfriendly housemate. Enjoys horseback riding & reading. Shared BA. $650/mo. + utils. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont. org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

CLASSIFIEDS KEY

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

print deadline: Mondays at 3:30 p.m. post ads online 24/7 at: sevendaysvt.com/classifieds questions? classifieds@sevendaysvt.com 865-1020

dryer

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

HOMESHARE IN THE ‘NOOSK

Winooski: Share apt. w/ private BA w/ woman in her 30s who loves “Survivor,”

“ e Bachelor” & One Direction. Convenient to UVM. No rent (just parking/utils. costs) in exchange for once/week transportation & flexible evening companionship Mon.- u. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont.org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks required. EHO.

HOMESHARE IN SO. BURLINGTON

So. Burlington: Mid-30s professional who enjoys horseback riding & reading seeks LGBTQfriendly housemate who would enjoy a lovable dog & cat! Shared BA. $650/mo. + utils. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont.org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

OFFICE/ COMMERCIAL

OFFICE/RETAIL SPACE AT MAIN STREET LANDING on Burlington’s waterfront. Beautiful, healthy, affordable spaces for your business. Visit mainstreetlanding.com & click on space avail. Melinda, 864-7999.

ser vices

AUTO

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY

Running or not! Fast, free pickup. Maximum tax deduction. Support Patriotic Hearts. Your car donation helps veterans! 1-866-5599123. (AAN CAN)

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

ELDER CARE

FIND SENIOR LIVING

My Caring Plan has helped thousands of families fi nd senior living. Our trusted, local advisers help fi nd solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call 866-386-9005. (AAN CAN)

FINANCIAL/LEGAL

$10K+ IN DEBT?

Be debt-free in 24-48 mos. Pay a fraction of your debt. Call National Debt Relief at 844-9773935. (AAN CAN)

APPEAL FOR SOCIAL SECURITY

Denied Social Security disability? Appeal! If you’re 50+, filed SSD & were denied, our attorneys can help. Win or pay nothing. Strong recent work history needed. Call 1-877-311-1416 to contact Steppacher Law Offi ces LLC. Principal offi ce: 224 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18503. (AAN CAN)

HEALTH/ WELLNESS

MASSAGE FOR MEN BY SERGIO

Time for a massage to ease those aches & pains. Deep tissue & Swedish. Contact me for an appt: 802-324-7539, sacllunas@gmail.com.

DISCOVER OXYGEN THERAPY

Try Inogen portable oxygen concentrators. Free information kit. Call 866-859-0894. (AAN CAN)

PSYCHIC COUNSELING

Psychic counseling, channeling w/ Bernice Kelman, Underhill. 40+ years’ experience. Also energy healing, chakra balancing, Reiki, rebirthing, other lives, classes & more. 802-899-3542, kelman.b@juno.com.

for sale by owner FSBO

COPENHAGEN HOUSE

4 BR, 2.5 Bath contemporary home in Waterford, Vt. with access to the Waterford Springs Beach and Connecticut River. $450,000. Contact: simonecote20@gmail.com

HOME/GARDEN

SECURE YOUR HOME

Secure your home w/ Vivint Smart Home technology. Call 855-621-5855 to learn how you can get a professionally installed security system w/ $0 activation. (AAN CAN)

MOVING/HAULING

LAST MINUTE MOVERS

We are Last Minute Movers, the guys here to “Save the day when you need it done right away.”

Professionally trained

buy this stuff

PETS

SHELTIE-DOODLE

PUPPIES

music BANDS/ MUSICIANS

& fully insured. Email rickmarkoski@gmail. com to experience the difference today w/ a complimentary in-home consultation.

PET SERVICES

DOG BOARDING/ DAYCARE

Couple in Richmond (one is stay-at-home) offer dog boarding & daycare.

Maximum 2 at any time.

Rates: $50 overnight; $35 for daytime. Refs. avail. Email rod@ rodcainmassage.com.

(1513) Phonograph Museum, Fine Art & Furnishings

Monday, Sept. 25 @ 10AM 333 Jones Dr., Brandon, VT

Preview: M-F from 10AM-5PM

Good w/ basic commands of sit, lay, come. Mostly potty-trained. Cute is an understatement. Ready for cuddles & forever homes. Email frambach. elizabeth@gmail.com or call 802-585-0234.

GOBERAIN PUPPIES

Goberain (husky/ golden retriever mix) puppies ready for a new home. Contact Devin at 802-522-0441.

GARAGE/ ESTATE SALES

GARAGE SALE Garage sale, 178 North Rd., Hinesburg. Sep. 23 & 24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Windows, metal framing, old carpenter tools, woodstove, die cast, John Deere & Cub Cadet tractors, RV, wood horses, lumber, & much more.

WANT TO BUY

TOP CASH FOR OLD GUITARS

1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico & Stromberg + Gibson mandolins & banjos. 877-589-0747. (AAN CAN)

SEEKING MUSICIANS!

Artistree’s Little Shop of Horrors is looking for local musicians! Reed (B-flat clarinet, E-flat clarinet, flute, tenor saxophone), trumpet, guitar, bass, percussion. Artistree’s Grange eatre in So. Pomfret. Please email theatre@ artistreevt.org for more information!

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

GUITAR INSTRUCTION

Berklee graduate w/ 30 years’ teaching experience offers lessons in guitar, music theory, music technology, ear training. Individualized, step-by-step approach. All ages, styles, levels. Rick Belford, 864-7195, rickbelford.com.

ELECTRONIC MUSIC WORKSHOPS

Produce the next big hit at our weekly kids’ electronic music workshop! Free for students ages 5-12 who meet income guidelines. Email sierra@sprouts. education to register.

VOICE LESSONS

Lillian Broderick is accepting new voice students of all ages & levels this fall. Contact lillianb@ monteverdimusic.org for more information!

Fine furnishings, a phonograph collection, museum, fine local and international art, recording equipment, photography equipment, and lots more from Compass Music & Art! (1530) Woodworking

Machinery, Truck & Trailer

Preview: Wed., Sept. 20 11AM-1PM

Wednesday, Sept. 27 @ 10AM Rutland, VT Location Over

THCAuction.com  800-634-SOLD

Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, fill the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.

Complete the following puzzle by using the numbers 1-9 only once in each row, column and 3 x 3 box.

WANT MORE PUZZLES?

Try these online news games from Seven Days at sevendaysvt.com/games.

NEW ON FRIDAYS:

Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test.

CALCOKU BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: ★★

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. e 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: ★★★

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. e same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.

ANSWERS ON P.80

★ = MODERATE ★ ★ = CHALLENGING ★ ★ ★ = HOO, BOY!

See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.

NEW EVERY DAY:

Guess today’s 5-letter word. Hint: It’s in the news!

Legal Notices

ACT 250 NOTICE MINOR

APPLICATION 4C0142-6B 10

V.S.A. §§ 6001 – 6111

Application 4C0142-6B from Rail Park LLC, Attn: Ken Pidgeon, PO Box 2187, South Burlington, VT 05407 was received on June 20, 2023 and deemed complete on August 28, 2023. The project is generally described as the construction and operation of a self-serve mini-storage facility comprising 139,950 square feet of storage across 21 mini-storage buildings, a check-in kiosk, and related parking, access, landscaping, and stormwater management improvements.

The Project is located at 1945 Main Street in Colchester, Vermont. This application can be viewed online by visiting the Act 250 Database: (https://anrweb. vt.gov/ANR/Act250/Details. aspx?Num=4C0142-6B).

No hearing will be held and a permit will be issued unless, on or before October 2, 2023, 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://nrb. vermont.gov/documents/partystatus-petition-form, and email it to the District 4 Office at: NRB. Act250Essex@vermont.gov. Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law may not be prepared unless the Commission holds a public hearing.

For more information contact Kevin Anderson at the address or telephone number below.

Dated this September 11, 2023.

By: /s/Kevin Anderson

at (973) 886-8151 or at Samuel. tolstoi@gmail.com. Comments may also be submitted by mail to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, Waste Management Division, 1 National Life Drive-Davis 1, Montpelier, VT 05620; attention Caitlyn Bain.

NOTICE OF DISINTERMENT

Palmer and David F. Palmer (now deceased) by Warranty Deed of Loren Palmer and Marjorie Palmer, dated July 2, 1992 and recorded at Volume 17, Page 150, of the Land Records of Buel’s Gore, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2011-2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, interest, cost and penalties: $9,510.38

properties as held by the current owner/taxpayer.

Dated this 13th day of September, 2023.

Jacob B. Perkinson

Supervisor Buel’s Gore

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT

contents of the unit. A $50 cash deposit shall be made and will be refunded if the unit is broom cleaned. Chimney Corners Self Storage reserves the right to accept or reject bids.

The contents of the following tenant’s self-storage units will be included in this sale:

Tina Barratt, Unit 702

Kevin

Anderson, District Coordinator

111 West Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452 (802) 522-6074 kevin.anderson@vermont.gov

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO BROWNFIELDS REUSE AND ENVIRONMENTAL LIABILITY LIMITATION ACT PROGRAM

Please take notice that Mud City Associates LLC whose mailing address is 190 Howard St Ap1, Burlington, VT 05401, is applying to the Vermont Brownfields Reuse and Environmental Liability Limitation Program (10 V.S.A. 6641 et seq.) in connection with the redevelopment of the property known as 616 South Willard St in the City of Burlington, VT. A copy of the application, which contains a preliminary environmental assessment and a description of the proposed redevelopment project is available for public review at the Burlington Clerks Office and at the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation offices in Montpelier. Comments concerning the application and/or the above referenced documents may be directed to Sam Tolstoi

This notice serves to inform of Sandra Smallwood Rendall’s intent to disinter the cremated remains of Franklin Smallwood from Lakeview Cemetery in Burlington, VT. Any family member, town cemetery commissioner or other authority responsible for cemeteries in the municipality can object to the proposed removal by filing a complaint in probate court.

NOTICE OF TAX SALE BUEL’S GORE

The resident and non-resident owners, lien holders and mortgagees of lands in Buel’s Gore in the County of Chittenden are hereby notified that the taxes and utility charges assessed by the Buel’s Gore Supervisor remain, either in whole or in part, unpaid on the following described lands, to wit:

Property Owner: Loren T. Palmer and David C. Palmer

Property Address: State Route 17 and Old County Road Parcel ID #10.000

All and the same lands and premises conveyed to the said David C. Palmer by Decree of Distribution of the Estate of David Frank Palmer dated October 4, 2012 and recorded in Volume 19, Page 182, and all and the same lands and premises conveyed to the said Loren T.

Reference may be made to said deeds for a more particular description of said lands and premises, as the same appear in the Land Records for Buel’s Gore.

So much of such lands will be sold at public auction at the parking area at the Appalachian Gap on Route 17 in Buel’s Gore, on the 17th of October, 2023 at 10 o’clock in the forenoon, as shall be requisite to discharge such taxes and delinquencies with interest, costs and penalties.

Property owners or mortgagees may pay such taxes, interest, costs and penalties in full by cash or certified check made payable to Buel’s Gore. At tax sale, successful bidders must pay in full by cash or certified check. No other payments accepted. Any questions or inquiries regarding the above-referenced sale should be directed to the following address:

Kristen E. Shamis, Esq. Monaghan Safar PLLC 27 Main Street Burlington, VT 05401 kshamis@msvltlaw. com

Monaghan Safar PLLC, and Buel’s Gore give no opinion or certification as to the marketability of title to the above-referenced

DOCKET NO.:23-PR-03980

In re ESTATE of Sandra Manning

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Sandra Manning, late of South Burlington, Vermont

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: September 14, 2023

Signature of Fiduciary:

/s/ Brian Manning

Executor/Administrator:

Brian Manning 401 Water Tower Circle, Suite 101, Colchester, VT 05446 rstaudinger@vtlawoffices.com (802) 863-5538

Name of Publication: Seven Days

Publication Date: 9/20/2023

Name of Probate Court: State of Vermont - Chittenden Probate Division Address of Probate Court: PO Box 511, 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05402

NOTICE OF SELF-STORAGE LIEN SALE,CHIMNEY CORNERS SELF STORAGE, 76 GONYEAU ROAD, MILTON VT 05403

Notice is hereby given that the contents of the self-storage units listed below will be sold at public auction by sealed bid. This sale is being held to collect unpaid storage unit occupancy fees, charges, and expenses of the sale. The entire contents of each self-storage unit listed below will be sold, with the proceeds to be distributed to Chimney Corners Self Storage for all accrued occupancy fees (rent charges), late payment fees, sale expenses, and all other expenses in relation to the unit and its sale.

Contents of each unit may be viewed on September 27th, commencing at 10:00 am. Sealed bids are to be submitted on the entire contents of each selfstorage unit. Bids will be opened one half hour after the last unit has been viewed on September 27th. The highest bidder on the storage unit must remove the entire contents of the unit within 48 hours after notification of their successful bid. Purchase must be made in cash and paid in advance of the removal of the

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY SELF STORAGE

In accordance with VT Title 9 Commerce and Trade Chapter 098: Storage Units 3905. Enforcement of Lien, Champlain Valley Self Storage, LLC shall host a live auction of the following units on or after 9/30/23:

Location: 2211 Main St. Colchester, VT

Steve Lefkovitz, units #511,#803, #804 & #784: household good

John Campbell, unit #652: household goods

Location: 78 Lincoln St. Essex Jct, VT

Valentino Anderson, unit #134: household goods

Auction pre-registration is required, email info@champlainvalleyselfstorage.com to register.

NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE LIEN SALE, EXIT 16 SELF STORAGE 295 Rathe Rd Colchester, Vt. 05446

Notice is hereby given that the contents of the self storage units listed below will be sold at auction

Cameron Derose-Barden 10 X 20

Robert Wolfe 10 X 25

Barbara Roberts 10 X 15

Barbara Roberts 10 X 20

Relinquished 5 X 10

Relinquished 5 X 10

Relinquished 10 X 10

Auction will take place: Saturday September 23rd at 9:00 am at Exit 16 Self Storage 295 Rathe Rd Colchester, Vt. 05446. Units will be opened for viewing immediately prior to the auction.

Sale shall be by live auction to the highest bidder. Contents of the entire storage unit will be sold as one lot.

All winning bidders will be required to pay a $50.00 deposit which will be refunded once unit is left empty and broom swept clean.

The winning bid must remove all contents from the facility within 72 hours of bid acceptance at no cost to Exit 16 Self Storage.

Exit 16 Self Storage reserves the right to reject any bid lower than the amount owed by the occupant.

Exit 16 Self Storage reserves the right to remove any unit from the auction should current tenant bring his or her account current with full payment prior to the start of the auction.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS GOODRICH MEMORIAL LIBRARY BUILDING MAINTENANCE

The Goodrich Memorial Library is requesting sealed proposals for the cleaning and repointing of building exterior brick walls, repairing and painting of outside woodwork including front entryway, repairing and replacing front walkway and repairing the inside entryway marble floor.

A detailed scope of work can be downloaded from the Goodrich Memorial Library Web site at: goodrichlibrary.org/maintenance.

Proposals will be accepted until 12:00pm, Thursday, September 28, 2023 by e-mail to director@ goodrichlibray.org or by mail or hand delivery with “Goodrich Memorial Library Maintenance Project” in the subject line or on the envelope to: Goodrich Memorial Library, 202 Main Street, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Questions? Contact Board of Trustees Chair James Johnson or Library Director Joanne Pariseau (802) 334-7902 or director@goodrichlibrary.org.

The Goodrich Memorial Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion, gender or familial status.

NORTHSTAR SELF STORAGE

WILL BE HAVING A PUBLIC AND ONLINE SALE/AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING STORAGE UNITS ON SEPT. 28TH, 2023, AT 9:00 AM

Northstar Self Storage will be having a public and online sale/ auction on September 28, 2023, at 3446 Richville Rd, Manchester Center, VT 05255 (Unit 61), 681 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, VT 05101 (Unit R-50) and at 1124 Charlestown Road, Springfield, VT 05156 (Units S-72) and online at www.storagetreasures.com at 9:00 am in accordance with VT Title 9 Commerce and Trade Chapter 098: Storage Units 3905. Enforcement of Lien

Unit # — Name

Contents

61 — Thomas Forest

Household Goods

R50 — Kevin Merritt

Household Goods

S72 — Annette Smith

Household Goods

NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE

LIEN SALE BURLINGTON SELF STORAGE, LLC

1825 SHELBURNE ROAD

SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT 05403

Notice is hereby given that the contents of the self storage units listed below will be sold at public auction by sealed bid.

Name of Occupant Storage Unit

Trombley, Unit 30

Said sales will take place on 09/22/23, beginning at 10:00am at Burlington Self Storage (BSS), 1825 Shelburne Road, South Burlington, VT 05403.

Units will be opened for viewing immediately prior to auction. Sale shall be by sealed bid to the highest bidder. Contents of entire storage unit will be

sold as one lot. The winning bid must remove all contents from the facility at no cost to BSS, on the day of auction. BSS, reserves the right to reject any bid lower that the amount owed by the occupant or that is not commercially reasonable as defined by statute.

NOTICE OF TAX SALE TOWN OF COLCHESTER

The resident and nonresident owners, lien holders and mortgagees of lands in the Town of Colchester in the County of Chittenden are hereby notified that the taxes and stormwater fees assessed by such Town remain, either in whole or in part, unpaid on the following described lands in such Town, to wit:

Property Owner: David Angolano

Property Address: 85 Gorge Road

Parcel ID # 18-017021-0000000

All of the same lands and premises conveyed to the said David J. Angolano by Warranty

Deed of Henry D. Angolano and Lucienne Angolano dated December 12, 1998 and recorded at Volume 304, Page 141 of the Land Records of the Town of Colchester, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2022 - 2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, stormwater fees, interest, cost and penalties: $3,956.34

Property Owner: K&N Enterprises, LLC

Property Address: 574 Prim Road Parcel ID # 49-020002-0000000

All of the same lands and premises conveyed to the said K&N Enterprises, LLC by Warranty Deed of Andre J. Thibault and Gisele K. Thibault dated May 24, 2018 and recorded at Volume 837, Page 595 of the Land Records of the Town of Colchester, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2021 - 2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, interest, cost and penalties: $17,483.37

Property Owner: Estate of George Kuntz

Property Address: 84 Causeway Road Parcel ID # 30-002002-0000000

All of the same lands and premises conveyed to the said George Kuntz (now deceased) by Executor’s Quitclaim Deed of George F. Kuntz, Jr. and Holly J. Searfoss dated November 25, 1996 and recorded at Volume 267, Page 484 of the Land Records of the Town of Colchester, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2022 - 2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, stormwater fees, interest, cost and penalties: $8,100.42

Property Owner: Debora

Lamphere

Property Address: 261 Holy Cross Road

Parcel ID # 50-041022-0000000

All of the same lands and premises conveyed to the said Deborah Lamphere by Warranty Deed of Thomas James Walker and Megan Elizabeth Walker dated June 11, 2018 and recorded at Volume 838, Page 114 of the Land Records of the Town of Colchester, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2020 - 2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, stormwater fees, interest, cost and penalties: $9,639.41

Property Owner: Timothy Muir and Frances Muir

Property Address: 15 Valiquette

Court Parcel ID # 49-010002-0000000

All of the same lands and premises conveyed to the said Timothy Muir and Frances D. Muir by Warranty Deed of Gerald A. Lemons, Sr. and Theresa L. Lemons dated March 7, 1998 and recorded at Volume 286, Page 252 of the Land Records of the Town of Colchester, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2019 - 2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, stormwater fees, interest, cost and penalties: $2,060.23

Property Owner: T.A. Muir, Inc.

Property Address: 17 Valiquette

Court

Parcel ID # 49-007022-0000000

All of the same lands and premises conveyed to the said T.A. Muir, Inc. by Warranty Deed of Francis F. Valiquette and Janice M. Valiquette dated May 18, 1995 and recorded at Volume 246, Page 533 of the Land Records of the Town of Colchester, Vermont.

Tax Years: 2021 - 2023

Amount of delinquent taxes, interest, cost and penalties: $760.57

Reference may be made to said deeds for a more particular description of said lands and premises, as the same appear in the Town Clerk’s Office of the Town of Colchester.

So much of such lands will be sold at public auction at the Town of Colchester, 781 Blakely Road, Colchester, Vermont 05478, on the 19th day of October, 2023 at 10 o’clock in the forenoon, as shall be requisite to discharge such taxes with interest, costs and penalties, unless previously paid. Property owners, mortgagees, and lien holders may pay such taxes, interest, costs and penalties in full by cash or certified check made payable to the Town of Colchester. At tax sale, successful bidders must pay in full by cash or certified check. No other payments accepted. Any questions or inquiries regarding the above-referenced sale should be directed to the following address:

Kristen E. Shamis, Esq. Monaghan Safar PLLC 27 Main Street Burlington, VT 05401 kshamis@msvtlaw.com (802) 660-4735

Monaghan Safar PLLC, and the Town of Colchester give no opinion or certification as to the marketability of title to the above-referenced properties as held by the current owner/ taxpayer.

Dated at Colchester, Vermont, this 11th day of September, 2023.

Julie Graeter Collector of

A Special Meeting of the Corporators of the Northfield Mutual Holding Company will be held on October 4, 2023 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, 60 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401. The matters to be considered include a review of corporate activities. Please call (802) 871-4492 for information.

PUBLIC HEARING WINOOSKI DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD

A public hearing will be held by the Winooski Development Review Board on Thursday, October 19, 2023 beginning at 6:30 p.m. to consider the following:

Request for Conditional Use

Approval:

67 Union Street

Applicant has submitted a request to convert existing non-residential space into two dwelling units in an existing structure located at 67 Union Street. The property at 67 Union Street is considered a pre-existing non-conforming use. This change of use will be reviewed under Section 4.9.F and Section 6.7 of the Unified Land Use and Development Regulations related to non-conforming lots, structures, right-of-way or drive, and uses; and conditional uses. The subject property is located in the Residential C (R-C) Zoning District.

This hearing will begin at 6:30pm. Members of the public that are interested in participating in this hearing can do so by attending in person at Winooski City Hall, 27 West Allen Street, Winooski, VT; or electronically by visiting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/85926681378 or by calling (301) 715 8592 and using Webinar ID: 859 2668 1378. Toll charges may apply.

Members of the public interested in participating in the above captioned hearing are requested, but not required to make their intentions known by completing the public comment request form located on the City’s website at https://www. winooskivt.gov/FormCenter/ Human-Resources-6/PublicComment-Request-Form-61 at least 24 hours in advance to ensure this information is included in the record of the hearing. This will also allow the chair to recognize participants to provide testimony at the appropriate time during the hearing.

also be viewed at Winooski City Hall during normal business hours

CORRECTION:  THE PUBLIC

NOTICE PUBLISHED ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2023 FOR SEEKING COMMENT ON 2023 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER)

TO HUD FOR 2022 Program

Year’s performance outcomes for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Community Development Block Grant CARES Act (CDBG-CV), HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME), Housing Trust Fund (HTF), Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG); and Emergency Solutions Grant Program CARES Act (ESGCV) programs had an error in the date for comments to be submitted to the program by. The date for submission of comments is changed:  Send questions or comments to Cindy Blondin at Cindy. Blondin@vermont.gov. or call 802-828-5219 or toll free at 1-866-933-6249.  Written comments are due by September 27, 2023, at 4:30 pm. Mail to DHCD, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT 05620-0501, ATTN: Cindy Blondin.

To learn more about this year’s CAPER go to DHCD’s website: http://accd.vermont.gov/ housing/plans-data-rules/hud.

CORRECCIÓN: El Aviso público publicado el 12 de septiembre de 2023 para solicitar comentarios sobre el Informe de evaluación y desempeño anual consolidado (CAPER) de 2023 al HUD para los resultados de desempeño del año del programa 2022 para la Subvención en bloque para el desarrollo comunitario (CDBG), la Ley CARES de la Subvención en bloque para el desarrollo comunitario ( CDBG-CV), Programa de Asociación de Inversión HOME (HOME), Fondo Fiduciario de Vivienda (HTF), Programa de Subvenciones para Soluciones de Emergencia (ESG); y los programas de la Ley CARES del Programa de Subvenciones para Soluciones de Emergencia (ESG-CV) tuvieron un error en la fecha para que los comentarios se enviaran al programa. Se cambia la fecha para la presentación de comentarios: envíe preguntas o comentarios a Cindy Blondin a Cindy.Blondin@vermont.gov. o llame al 802-828-5219 o al número gratuito 1-866-9336249. Los comentarios por escrito deben presentarse antes del 27 de septiembre de 2023 a las 4:30 p. m. Envíe por correo a DHCD, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT 05620-0501, ATENCIÓN: Cindy Blondin.

développement communautaire ( CDBG-CV), Programme de partenariat d’investissement HOME (HOME), Fonds fiduciaire pour le logement (HTF), Programme de subventions pour solutions d’urgence (ESG) ; et les programmes de subventions pour les solutions d’urgence CARES Act (ESG-CV) comportaient une erreur dans la date à laquelle les commentaires devaient être soumis au programme. La date de soumission des commentaires est modifiée : Envoyez vos questions ou commentaires à Cindy Blondin à Cindy.Blondin@ vermont.gov. ou appelez le 802-828-5219 ou sans frais au 1-866-933-6249. Les commentaires écrits doivent être déposés avant le 27 septembre 2023 à 16h30. Courrier au DHCD, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT 05620-0501, ATTN : Cindy Blondin.

Pour en savoir plus sur le CAPER de cette année, rendez-vous sur le site Web du DHCD : http:// accd.vermont.gov/housing/ plans-data-rules/hud.

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY SELF

STORAGE

In accordance with VT Title 9 Commerce and Trade Chapter 098: Storage Units 3905. Enforcement of Lien, Champlain Valley Self Storage, LLC shall host a live auction of the following units on or after 10/20/23:

Location: 2211 Main St. Colchester, VT Gregory Stowe, unit #729: household goods

Richard Foy, unit #958: household good

Auction pre-registration is required, email info@ champlainvalleyselfstorage.com to register.

CITY OF BURLINGTON

Ordinance 5.20

Sponsor: Councilor Barlow Rules suspended and placed in all stages of passage 09/11/23

Signed by Mayor: 09/18/23

Published: 09/20/23

Effective: 10/11/23

In the Year Two Thousand Twenty-Three

An Ordinance in Relation to Model Years for Vehicles for Hire

It is hereby Ordained by the City Council of the City of Burlington as follows:

That Chapter 30, Vehicles for Hire, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Burlington be and hereby is amended by amending Sec. 15, Inspections, thereof to read as follows:

Delinquent Taxes

Town of Colchester

The Development Review Board will hold a public hearing on this matter before rendering a decision. Decisions of the Development Review Board can be appealed by “interested persons” (as defined by 24 V.S.A. § 4465) to the Environmental Division of the Vermont Superior Court.

Questions or comments on this matter can be directed to Eric Vorwald, AICP, City of Winooski Planning & Zoning Manager by calling 802.655.6410 or visiting Winooski City Hall at 27 West Allen Street during normal business hours. Information related to these matters can

Para obtener más información sobre CAPER de este año, visite el sitio web del DHCD: http:// accd.vermont.gov/housing/ plans-data-rules/hud.

CORRECTION : L’avis public publié le 12 septembre 2023 pour solliciter des commentaires sur le rapport annuel consolidé de performance et d’évaluation (CAPER) 2023 au HUD pour les résultats de performance de l’année de programme 2022 pour la subvention globale de développement communautaire (CDBG), la loi CARES sur la subvention globale de

(b) All motor vehicles operating as vehicles for hire shall not be more than ten (10) fifteen (15) model years older than the current calendar year.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

LINE COOK

Goodwater Brewery is looking for someone to join our incredible, laid-back team. The ideal person should be self-motivated, passionate about food, have a creative mentality and a good work ethic. Experience preferred but not required. No late nights and stable work.

Send resume to: marty@goodwaterbreweryvt.com

Seasonal Positions & Flexible Schedules

Looking for a job for a few weeks or months? We have positions in our smokehouse, call center and warehouse. Flexible shifts to meet most schedules, paid training, a fun work environment making the World’s Finest Hams, Bacon and Smoked Meats for customers around the country.

Apply in person:

210 East Main St, Richmond

(Just 15 minutes from Burlington or Waterbury)

Hey! Do you love...

POSITIONS OPEN!

Admissions Marketing Manager

Saint Michael’s College is a unique college offering a distinctive educational environment. We are looking for an Admissions Marketing Manager, someone with a passion for storytelling who can bring a community experience and culture to life in clear and persuasive content to attract the students who will thrive at Saint Mike’s. The person in this position will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive marketing plan and materials that attract, engage, and convert prospective students. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of the admissions funnel and is a versatile writer with experience creating various types of marketing content that supports prospective students, families, & other supporters in understanding the value of a Saint Michael’s education & encourages them to engage in meaningful ways. For a complete job description, benefits information, and to apply online, please visit: https://bit.ly/SMCAdMM

4t-StMichaelsCollegeADMISmarketing092023.indd 1

...playing with kids

...spending time in nature ...teaching about social justice?

We’ve got the job for you!

Mechanical Inspectors & CNC Operators

Pre-Tech is currently accepting applications for full-time Mechanical Inspectors and CNC Operators on both 1st and 2nd shift in our Williston, Vermont facility. Great working environment with generous benefits including paid holidays, vacation time, paid sick time, medical, dental, and paid life insurance. The package includes profit sharing & matching 401(k).

Hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday for 1st shift and 3:00 PM to 1:30 AM Monday through Thursday for 2nd shift.

Interested candidates should see details and submit applications or resumes online: Pretechplastics.com.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROJECT CONSULTANT

Three-year, Part time contract beginning Fall 2023

9/19/23 12:04 PM

The Vermont Judiciary is currently recruiting a Behavioral Health Project Consultant. This person will work with the Vermont Judiciary Commission on Mental Health and the Courts and its justice partners and stakeholders to assist with expanding and improving the judicial response to mental and behavioral health issues, to assist with the development and implementation of training curriculum and materials, and to facilitate and support justice partners and stakeholders in the Commission’s work. A BA in Behavioral Science, Social Services, Psychology, or related fields with 5+ years of experience in project management or policy development in areas related to mental/behavioral health treatment providers and evidence-based practices for mental/behavioral health, substance abuse disorders, and/or co-occurring disorders. EOE. For further details see vermontjudiciary.exacthire.com/job/115182

To Apply submit a resume to JUD.jobs@vermont.gov

The Schoolhouse Learning Center in South Burlington seeks flex and afterschool teachers for our natureand play-based program. Candidates should enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors in all weather, hiking, exploring, and teaching children about the natural world, as well as supporting a social-justice focused curriculum.

Learn from a fantastic team of experienced teachers, in a progressive school with a long track record of success.

Find out more and apply:

www.theschoolhousevt.org/ employment

802-658-4164

Client Services & Outreach/ Development Managers

Based in Burlington, JUMP has been providing direct assistance to people in need in Vermont for 35 years. If you are a team player who cares about people and community, apply to work with JUMP!

MANAGER OF CLIENT SERVICES:

Manage JUMP Drop-In Center; meet with clients; allocate direct assistance; maintain records; supervise volunteers; collaborate with JUMP staff/leader team.

MANAGER OF OUTREACH & DEVELOPMENT:

Coordinate JUMP communications, outreach, social media; JUMP Drop-In Center involvement, collaborate with JUMP staff/leader team.

Apply with letter and resume to: board@jumpvt.org. Positions @20 hours/week. Details: bit.ly/jobsatjump2023

Events Coordinator (Part-Time)

This opportunity is available to a dynamic, hard-working individual looking to develop their hands-on experience with a community-based arts organization.

What we are looking for in a candidate: The ideal candidate for the Events Coordinator will have experience handling event planning and coordination, and serve as a cheerful and helpful point of contact for visitors and outside inquiries to Artistree.

Schedule and compensation: This is a part-time, hourly position with pay rate in the range of $20.00/hour based on experience. The standard schedule will be approximately 20 hours per week, with flexibility and some availability on evenings and weekends required. There may be adjustments to the schedule during the summer, or at other times based on Artistree’s program and event schedule.

To apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and a list of two to three professional references to programming@artistreevt.org

Head Coach for Women’s Lacrosse

The Department of Athletics at Saint Michael’s College invites applications for the position of Head Coach for Women’s Lacrosse. Saint Michael’s College, a private Catholic liberal arts and Sciences College located in the greater Burlington area of Vermont. Saint Michael’s is an NCAA Division II institution sponsoring 21 varsity sports and is a proud member of the Northeast-10 Conference, NEWHA, and the EISA. This is a full-time, 11-month position with benefits. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, conducting team management in a manner that is consistent with the mission, philosophy, and goals of the institution and department; managing all aspects of the women’s lacrosse program, including: practice and game day competitions, budget, scheduling, scouting, recruitment, fundraising, and alumni and parent relations; strategically planning and coordinating all aspects of the recruitment of potential students; and coordinating SMC Summer Camp Program. Complete job description, benefits information, and to apply: bit.ly/SMCHWLC

4t-StMichaelsCollegeWOMENlacrosse092023.indd 1

JOB TRAINING. WELL DONE.

Join the Community Kitchen Academy!

Community Kitchen Academy (CKA) is a 9-week job training program featuring: Hands on learning, national ServSafe certification, job placement support and meaningful connections to community. Plus... the tuition is FREE and weekly stipends are provided for income eligible students!

At CKA you’ll learn from professional chefs in modern commercial kitchens and graduate with the skills and knowledge to build a career in food service, food systems and other related fields. Throughout the 9-week course, you’ll develop and apply new skills by preparing food that would otherwise be wasted. The food you cook is then distributed through food shelves and meal sites throughout the community. CKA is a program of the Vermont Foodbank, operated in partnership with Capstone Community Action in Barre and Feeding Chittenden in Burlington. Next sessions start October 16th in Burlington and November 13th in Barre.

APPLY ONLINE: vtfoodbank.org/cka.

Deputy State’s Attorney Positions

The Vermont Department of State’s Attorneys and Sheriffs is hiring full-time Deputy State’s Attorneys in Franklin County (St Albans), Orleans County (Newport), and Bennington County (Bennington), plus a limited-service Deputy State’s Attorneys position in Lamoille County (Hyde Park). A DSA represents the State’s Attorney’s Office in prosecuting criminal and certain civil offenses.

Minimum Qualifications: J.D. degree and admission to the Vermont Bar, or a candidate who has passed the VT bar exam by reading the law. A candidate pending bar results or admission to the Vermont bar may be considered.

For a complete list of openings and full job descriptions, go to prosecutors.vermont.gov/job-opportunities. Positions open until filled. Inquiries can be made by emailing sas.jobs@vermont.gov

Business Manager

NorthWoods Stewardship Center, an environmental conservation and education nonprofit based in East Charleston, VT seeks a full-time business manager to support its financial, operational, and HR functions. Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in business administration, finance, or accounting, and proficiency in Quickbooks, Excel, and database management required. Non-profit experience preferred. Apply to Executive Director Maria Young at maria@northwoodscenter. org. Deadline October 15, 2023. Job info: northwoodscenter.org

VERMONT PUBLIC IS HIRING!

We are Vermont’s unified public media organization (formerly VPR and Vermont PBS), serving the community with trusted journalism, quality entertainment, and diverse educational programming.

• Director of Business Sponsorships

• Director of Engineering

• Education and Youth Reporter

• Digital Producer

We believe a strong organization includes employees from a range of backgrounds with different skills, experience & passions.

To see more openings & apply: vermontpublic.org/ careers

Must be able to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Vermont Public is a proud equal opportunity employer.

the brid ge

Program Manager

Independent Non-profit Community News for Central Vermont

Independent, Non-profit Community News for Central Vermont

Ad Sales Rep.

Ad Sales Rep.

• Earn money part-time and help support local journalism.

Earn money part-time and help support local journalism

• Set your own hours and work from where you like.

Set your own hours and work from where you like.

Mad River Mentoring (MRM) is a communitybased mentoring program serving the Mad River Valley. MRM provides 1:1 mentoring for youth aged 8-18 who reside or attend school in the valley. Our goal is to develop quality adult-to-youths relationships that increase access to the support and resources that youth need to improve their wellbeing, sense of belonging and quality of life.

The right candidate will be sales oriented, self-motivated and digitally savvy— ideally comfortable with Google Ad Manager, WordPress, and Google Suite.

This is a contract position with base pay plus commission and room for future growth.

The right candidate will be sales oriented, self-motivated & digitally savvy—ideally comfortable with Google Ad Manager, WordPress, and Google Suite.This is a contract position with base pay plus commission & room for growth.

• Details at: montpelierbridge.org/job-opportunities

Operations Manager

Overview: The Mad River Mentoring Program Manager will have the opportunity to help build a resource for our community. This virtual position will provide a great deal of flexibility regarding working hours, although some work must be completed in person with youths after school. You will have the support of an active advisory board. This position is part-time, 10 to 20 hours a week.

Compensation range: $20.00-$25.00/hour based on experience. Please submit a cover letter and resume to madrivermentoring@ gmail.com. Please include contact information for three referencesone professional, one supervisory and one personal.

2v-TheBridge090623 1 9/1/23 12:15 PM

Nonprofit, independent newspaper in Montpelier seeks highly organized individual with strong communication and collaboration skills to help manage operations. Familiarity with QuickBooks and WordPress a plus. Flexible hours up to 20 per week, $25 per hour with some benefits.

Details at: montpelierbridge.org/ job-opportunities

Child Care Resource

Financial Assistant Specialist

Help make a di erence in the lives of Vermont families and join our team at Child Care Resource.

Community Arts Openings

Come work in a former convent and Catholic school - turned community arts hub in Montpelier!

BOOKKEEPER

We have several exciting career opportunities available!

You will help families access nancial assistance to help pay child care tuition and other bene ts, and you’ll help child care providers receive accurate and timely payment for child care services. This position requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, basic math and computer skills, and the ability to work well with a diverse clientele. Bachelor’s degree in a human service eld plus 1 year of related experience or an equivalent combination of work and experience is desired. This position is 40 hours/week. Generous health insurance allowance, employer matched 401k and leave time available. Some remote work is possible after you are fully trained. Please send your cover letter and resume to jvanburen@childcareresource.org. The position will be open until lled. For a full job description, go to childcareresource.org.

Assistant Coach of Nordic Skiing

The Department of Athletics at Saint Michael’s College invites applications for the Assistant Coach of Nordic Skiing position. This position will support the Head Coach of Nordic Ski in all aspects of running a collegiate Ski program including the support of developing a year-round training program, working independently with studentathletes, maintaining ski equipment, and driving student athletes in college vans to practices and competitions.

For a complete job description, benefits information, and to apply online, please visit: bit.ly/SMCACNS.

CAL's Bookkeeper is primarily responsible for the care and maintenance of CAL’s financial activity and records. They ensure that routine transactions and reports are completed accurately and presented on time. They will act as support for other financial activities like 990 tax prep and business projections. This position includes some office admin support, but is primarily focused on bookkeeping.

This position is budgeted for 10 hours per week at $18 – $20 per hour and reports to CAL’s Executive Director. Position open until filled. Find out more and apply: cal-vt.org/jobs

The Center for Arts and Learning is a Vermont-registered nonprofit and is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, gender or other protected class. We welcome all interested applicants.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

20-27, 2023

Development Director

SALARY RANGE: $75,000+

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Director will spearhead the launch of a multimillion-dollar capital campaign drawing on a sound and loyal donor base and seeking opportunities to expand same. The Development Director will work directly with the SLR leadership team, Board Development Commi ee, as well as contracted and volunteer partners, to promote a culture of philanthropy within the organization. This position o ers great flexibility and remote options.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary, flexible hours, opportunity to work remotely as needed.

• Five weeks paid time o , family leave options.

• Health Insurance with up to 90% of premiums paid by Spring Lake Ranch dependent on the plan.

• Dental & Vision insurances: premiums paid 100% by Spring Lake Ranch.

• Life and Short and Long-Term disability insurance: premiums paid 100% by Spring Lake Ranch.

• Employer contributions to retirement account a er first six-months.

• Employee Assistance Program.

• Professional development fi nancial support. Send resumes to: heatherm@springlakeranch.org

Director of Compliance

There has never been a better time to bring your values and talents to the collaborative team at the Vermont Department of Taxes. The rewarding work we do supports this brave little state and helps shape its future. We work with proven, dynamic technologies to fund initiatives that preserve the environment, build vibrant communities, strengthen families, and so much more. Discover new opportunities, learn new skills, and solve problems with our dedicated and supportive team.

We are seeking a Director of Tax Compliance to manage, develop, and support a team of 50+ staff members. This position reports to the Department’s Chief Operating Officer and works closely with members of the Department’s leadership team, including the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and other division leaders. The position oversees the Department’s Compliance Division, which consists of audit, collections, data analysis, and support sections. This team employs a service-oriented approach to discovery, audit, and collection of delinquent taxes and promotes voluntary compliance. The salary range for this position is between $81,000 - $128,000.

To learn more visit tax.vermont.gov/careers

To learn more visit tax.vermont.gov/careers

To learn more visit tax.vermont.gov/careers To learn more visit tax.vermont.gov/careers

Water Resources Department Staff

Soup & Salad Prep

Certified Pharmacy Technician Full Time

Looking for a Full Time Certified Pharmacy Technician. This is a great opportunity to work in a fun, busy environment with a great group of professionals. We are looking for a dependable Pharmacy Technician. You will work with a team under the direction of the pharmacist to provide excellent customer service and ensure the pharmacy runs smoothly. As a pharmacy technician you must be detail-oriented and reliable since the job has high responsibility. You must possess excellent communication skills as well as aptitude in using computers. You will be working in a fast-paced environment as a team player. I am looking for a friendly person that enjoys helping others. You will be helping with the compounding along with working in the pharmacy. You will need to pass a background check and a drug test. We are looking for someone with experience, that is Certified. This is a small Pharmacy and we work as a team to take care of our patient’s needs.

No evenings and no Sundays. Pay is dependent on experience. Benefits include: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Paid Time Off, 401K.

Please include cover letter with resume sharing a little about yourself and why you would like this position: vtfamilyrx@comcast.net

The Town of Richmond, VT is recruiting staff for the Water Resources Department. Open positions include Operator in Training, Lead Mechanical Operator, and Assistant Water and Wastewater Superintendent.

All interested parties are encouraged to apply and training is available for qualified applicants. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to start a career in the Water Resources Industry or for someone with current Water Resources Industry experience and certifications looking for the next step in their career.

The Richmond Water Resources department has about 500 water and wastewater accounts serving about 1000 people. The wastewater facility has a very active septage receival program. Please send cover letter, resume & 3 current references to: Town of Richmond, P.O. Box 285, Richmond, VT, 05477. Or email to scote@richmondvt.gov. Questions directed to Steve Cote, Water and Wastewater Superintendent, at (802) 434-2178

Job Descriptions for Open Positions:

OPERATOR IN TRAINING: bit.ly/RichmondOPERATOR

LEAD MECHANICAL OPERATOR: bit.ly/RichmondLEADmechop

ASSISTANT WATER & WASTEWATER SUPERINTENDENT: bit.ly/RichmondWATERsuper

Wholesale Sales Representative

We seek an experienced sales representative to build new relationships and deepen existing relationships with customers, broaden our exposure and grow our revenue. This position is primarily focused on selling to resellers of our seed through both inbound and outbound channels.

To see a full job description and list of qualifications and responsibilities visit: highmowingseeds.com

To Apply: Email resume, cover letter, and references to jobs@highmowingseeds. com. Please put the job title in the subject line. No phone calls, please.

Must love colorful foods & working with a team! FT, Tuesday-Saturday from 9-5PM. Email gk@tomgirl.co to apply! jobs.sevendaysvt.com

Operating Room RN or Certified Surgical Technologist

NORTHEASTERN VERMONT REGIONAL HOSPITAL

(NVRH): Join our team of experienced nurses and provide exceptional patient care in Perioperative Services. We offer competitive wages, loan repayment, generous paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package. Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to advance your career and join a healthcare team that delivers excellent services to the community.

Apply now and experience the rewards of being in a supportive and thriving environment at NVRH.

Assistant Town Manager

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/ INTAKE COORDINATOR

Vermont Center for Anxiety Care

Matrix Health Systems

Exclusive Burlington waterfront location

Duties:

• Manage online client applications for mental health services

• Telephone screening of new clients

• Health insurance verification

• Manage client wait list

• Coordinate case assignments

• Telephone and in-person patient reception

• Implement health safety protocols

• Administrative support to practice director

Required skills:

• Friendliness and effective verbal communication

Computer skills:

• Spreadsheets, JotForms, scanning, faxing, email, MS Word

• Efficiency and organization

Send resume to Alesia: alesia@ocamhs.com

Mechanic/Truck Driver

Shelburne’s Highway Department has an immediate opening for a full-time Mechanic/Truck Driver. This position is responsible for the maintenance of all Town vehicles and other machinery and equipment. The successful candidate will also operate trucks and other equipment, in addition to plowing snow.

A high school diploma or equivalent and five years of related experience; CDL or the ability to obtain a CDL; Vermont State Vehicle Inspection License; and background check are required. Full job description is available at shelburnevt.org/237/Human-Resources Salary range $30-$35/hr. with generous insurance package, vacation and sick time, & paid holidays. From dump trucks to police cruisers, help keep Shelburne rolling smoothly! Submit resume/application to Susan Cannizzaro: scannizzaro@shelburnevt.org.

The Town of Stowe is seeking to hire a full-time Assistant Town Manager to assist in the administration of the municipal government. Stowe is a four season resort community that is highly regarded for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The Assistant Town Manager’s primary role is to assist the Town Manager in the day-to-day administration of the municipality by helping to provide oversight, answering public inquiries, providing research, supporting various committees, participating in teams of municipal employees to solve problems and advancing municipal policy objectives, and may serve as Acting Town Manager in their absence.

Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, or related field supplemented with experience in local government or public administration and progressively responsible experience in a professional office setting is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Pay range $75,000 to $80,000, but may vary depending on experience and qualifications.

The Town of Stowe currently offers an excellent benefit package including BCBS health plans with a 5% or 10% employee premium share, dental insurance, generous paid leave including 13 paid holidays, 10.6% employer contribution to VMERS pension plan, life insurance and more.

Job description and employment application can be obtained at: townofstowevt.org. Submit letter of interest, resume and employment application to: Town of Stowe, c/o HR Director, PO Box 730, Stowe, VT 05672 or by email recruit@stowevt.gov. Position open until filled.

The Town of Stowe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The University of Vermont Foundation is currently seeking qualified candidates to join our team in the following roles:

Associate Director of Major Gifts Stewardship

Assistant Director of Alumni Relations (& Liaison to the Grossman School of Business)

Business Office Coordinator

The mission of the UVM Foundation is to secure and manage private support for the benefit of the University of Vermont. Our Vision is to foster relationships with alumni and donors that maximize their personal and philanthropic investment in the University, toward the realization of the University’s aspiration to remain among the nation’s premier small research institutions. Every staff member on our team contributes to our ability to meet that mission.

The UVM Foundation is committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages. We especially encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ people, and people with disabilities.

To learn more about our career opportunities, visit: uvmfoundation.org/careers

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Solar Electrician

Responsible for the installation of solar equipment, wiring and devices. The SE will lead and facilitate code compliant electrical work on solar projects including wiring, conduit, enclosures, switch gear, lighting, main service replacements, sub panels, and transformers. The Solar Electrician will read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and diagrams to determine the layout of electrical wiring and equipment for community solar installations.

Experience, Education and Certifications:

• 4+ years of commercial electrical experience (required).

• Experience working with Three Phase Services (208V, 480V and 600V).

• OSHA 30 certified.

• Working knowledge of local electrical codes as they relate to solar installations and inspection compliance.

• Must possess a valid Journeyman License/Electrician Certification or equivalent per local and state requirements. Send resumes to: skeck@bullrockcorp.com

• Title IX Coordinator

• Programmer/Analyst (2 positions)

• Athletic Communications Assistant

• Assistant Director, Accounts Payable & Travel Services

• University Police Communications & Security Specialist 1

For position details and application process, visit jobs.plattsburgh.edu and select “View Current Openings”

Phlebotomy

• Guaranteed paid employment on day one of training

Financial Administrator

Frame Shop & Gallery Assistant

Art Works Frame Shop & Gallery is looking for an upbeat artist or art enthusiast for a fun & casual position. If you have an eye for color, detail & passion for art and want to jump into the local art scene hands first then please forward your resume! artworksvt@gmail.com

INVEST IN YOURSELF

Our apprenticeship program is a paid opportunity to become a phlebotomist with NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.

APPLY NOW

www.iaahitec.org/phlebotomy

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

$2,000 SIGN ON BONUS

External candidates are eligible for a one-time sign on bonus paid over 3 installments. Amounts reflect gross pay, prior to applicable tax withholdings and deductions required by law. Current University of Vermont Health Network employees are excluded and additional terms and conditions apply.

• Direct patient care

• Team environment

• Full Benefits

• Dedicated support during the 5-week program

• Paid Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam

SUNY Plattsburgh is an AA/EEO/ADA/VEVRAA employer committed to excellence through diversity and supporting an inclusive environment for all.

The State has a new Sports Wagering division and is looking for a Financial Administrator to help build the program from the ground up. Duties in this role include, assisting with budget development, serving as the budget analyst, and performing cost analysis. The Financial Administrator will prepare monthly financial reports and assist the Director of Sports Wagering with implementing internal control systems. They will also balance and reconcile accounting records, oversee the input of financial data into computerized systems and prepare financial statements, summaries and reports for departmental accounting and financial records.

Apply: careers.vermont.gov/job/ Berlin-Financial-AdministratorIII-VT/1073908100/

CCTV CO DIRECTOR

CCTV Center for Media & Democracy is a nationally recognized and locally appreciated community media center housing Town Meeting TV, CCTV Productions, and the VT Language Justice Project. CCTV has transitioned from a founding executive director to a shared leadership model comprising Co-Directors of Operations & Projects. The Co-Director we are seeking is senior level, responsible for operations, and oversees four key areas: Financial Management, Technical Support, Revenue Development, and Human Resources. This position supervises and works with the Business Manager, Technical Services Director/team, and the Development Director/ team to ensure financial security and continuity of operations. The Co Director (of Operations) will work in tandem with the current Co Director (of Projects) to provide overall organizational leadership. Help move CCTV into the next decade. Work with a stellar staff to open the doors of local democracy and expand the organization’s reach and impact in pursuit of media justice.

CCTV is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. We place a high value on workforce diversity. People of color, women, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are strongly encouraged to apply. To read a complete job description, including salary range and resume scoring rubric visit cctv.org

Send letter & resume to CCTVopsdir@gmail.com. Open until filled.

Sunrise Crew Smoothies & Service

FT Tuesday-Saturday PT 2 Shifts + 1 Weekend Day tomgirl.co/join-our-team-1 1t-TomGirlSUNrise011222.indd

Program Enrollment Specialist

HOPE, a non-governmental human services organization, seeks a part time team member to complete enrollment paperwork with people eligible for financial assistance in finding and keeping housing. Must have computer skills, be focused and detail oriented, and have excellent organizational and customer service skills, as well as experience working with persons who have high housing barriers, including substance use and mental health disorders. The first half of the shift will be spent completing required programmatic forms and assessments, and the latter half at the front desk assisting walk in persons and answering the phone. Tuesday –Friday, noon to 4 pm.

Send resumes to: receptionist@hope-vt.org

Carpenters Wanted! Needed Immediately!

Call Mike at 802-343-0089

Employment Specialist

Why not have a job you love?

Benefit package includes 29 paid days off in the first year, comprehensive health insurance plan with premium as low as $13 per month, up to $6,400 to go towards medical deductibles and copays, retirement match, generous sign on bonus and so much more. And that’s on top of working at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont” for five years running. Great jobs in management, and direct support at an award-winning agency serving Vermonters with intellectual disabilities.

JOB HIGHLIGHT – EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST:

Work in our award winning supported employment program with individuals to develop career goals, seek and secure employment, and build partnership 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. Rate of pay is $21 per hour plus $1,000 sign on bonus at six months.. Send resume to staff@ccs-vt.org

Learn more at ccs-vt.org/current-openings. Make a career making a difference & apply today!

Join our innovative and award-winning team to help bring more affordable housing to Vermont!

Controller

Program Coordinator

The program coordinator will develop, implement, and supervise current and future recreation programs for the Town of Waterbury, including afterschool and summer programs. The position is responsible for implementing lesson planning and activities, a positive learning environment, establishing a positive rapport with students, guardians and co-workers, and preparing materials and supplies. During the summer, the program coordinator will also be a camp director at the Waterbury Recreation Summer Camp. Waterbury Recreation is a licensed-exempt afterschool program. We are looking for fun, energetic and motivated staff to join our team. To learn more about the position, please visit: www.waterburyvt.com/ departments/finance

The Controller prepares monthly financial statements, ensures accurate accounting and reporting of federal and state grants, leads the management of VHCB’s loan portfolio, and supports program staff in the analysis of grant and program financial performance.

This position is open until October 16th.

Federal Housing Programs Manager

We’re looking for a skilled professional to independently support our federal housing programs while working in a collaborative problem-solving environment.

This position is open until filled; application deadline is October 9, 2023.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and an inclusive, supportive work environment.

For full job descriptions, salary information, and application instructions please visit vhcb.org/about-us/jobs

Vermont Housing & Conser vation Board

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Executive Office Manager/ Executive Assistant

VSAC is seeking a talented full-time Executive Office Manager/Executive Assistant at our Winooski office. This position will closely support the executive team by overseeing the executive office’s day-to-day operations and administrative activities, managing various special projects and executive office budgets, acting as the primary point of contact for internal and external communications, and working on priority initiatives set by the executives.

The ideal candidate will have five years of executive office management experience, substantial experience with Microsoft Office Suite, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. Candidates with a BA are preferred but comparable life experience will also be considered.

At Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC), we’re all about the mission. Help us fulfill our vision of providing all Vermont students with information and financial resources to reach their educational goals.

APPLY ONLINE: VSAC.ORG/CAREERS

Tree Trimming Crew Journeyperson

The Town of Stowe Electric Department is seeking a Tree Crew Journeyperson to work as part of our threeperson tree crew.

This role is responsible for ensuring the safe removal of trees and brush near and around high voltage power lines and to maintain SED’s ROWs. These responsibilities are vital to our ability to provide safe and reliable electricity in an efficient manner. Climbing experience and a valid Vermont CDL are required. $25-$35 /hour.

First or Second Class Lineworker

The Town of Stowe Electric Department is seeking a Certified 1st Class or 2nd Class Lineworker to join our team of highly skilled professionals.

This role is responsible for ensuring customers receive safe and reliable electricity in an efficient manner. Tasks include working on de-energized and energized lines utilizing rubber glove practices in all scenarios. A valid Vermont CDL is required. $49.28/hour First Class/$40.90/hour Second Class.

Benefits include:

• 6 Weeks PTO After First Year

• Low-Cost Health Insurance

• Employer-Provided Dental

• $100k Life Insurance

• 401(a) & 457(b) Retirement Plans

• Union Position

• Excellent Work Environment

View full job description at StoweElectric.com/jobs

Sales & Customer Service Associates

Massage Therapists

Full or Part Time

If you enjoy working with the community and would find joy in assisting clients on their wellness journey, please send your resume to clinic0779@ massageenvy.com 2141 Essex Road Williston, VT 05495 (802)879-0888

Water Superintendent/ Operator

An Exciting Career Opportunity! Royalton, Vermont Fire District 1 Seeks Water Superintendent/OperatorVermont Class 4B License required.

The Royalton Fire District 1 seeks a water superintendent/operator. This is a full-time, 40-hour per week position with weekend rotations. The position requires occasional emergency response outside normal hours.

The water superintendent/operator will report to the Prudential Committee for the Fire District. The candidate will work with a contractor for coverage for weekly days off and vacation. Schedule will be established by mutual agreement.

The water treatment plant is currently undergoing a $3.2 Million upgrade. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to participate in the launch of a new, state-of-the-art computerized water management system.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducts water system testing and reporting.

• Monitors water quality and adjusts chemicals used in the plant in accordance with standards for operation.

• Performs maintenance of equipment and facilities according to procedures and schedules.

• Investigates possible violations of water system rules & regulations.

• Responds to and resolves customer complaints.

• Conducts semi-annual water meter readings.

• Dedication to water quality and safety.

Full job description at Town of Royalton, VT: royaltonvt.gov

The Royalton Fire District 1 is an equal opportunity employer.

Please submit resume and three references to office@ royaltonfiredistrict1.com no later than September 25, 2023.

Applications may also be submitted by using the drop box at 55 North Street, the office for the Royalton Fire District, or via mail at Royalton Fire District 1 PO Box 204 South Royalton, VT 05068.

General Assembly

Seasonal Positions for the 2024 Legislative Session

The Legislative support offices are currently hiring. The nonpartisan offices are an interesting, challenging, and exciting place to work.

You will be part of a highly professional and collegial team that is proud of, and enthusiastic about, the mission of the state legislature.

To apply, please go to 'Career Opportunities' at legislature.vermont.gov.

Children's Ministry Coordinator

First Congregational Church of Essex Junction is currently looking to hire a Children’s Ministry Coordinator.

Position Description: Coordinator for children’s Christian Education for ages Nursery up through 5th grade. Primarily responsible for Sunday morning Faith Formation. Other children’s programs with which the Coordinator may be involved include the Young Apostles “youth group” and summer Vacation Bible Camp.

Compensation: Hourly Rate: $18-22/hour based on experience, equivalent for expected work hours of 10 hours/week with reduced responsibility mid-June to mid-August. Interested candidates may send resumes & cover letters to welcome@fccej.org.

FCCEJ is an open & affirming church, serving all in the spirit of Christ.

Finance Coordinator

Would you like to contribute meaningfully to the lives of under-resourced children across Vermont and New Hampshire? The Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF) is adding a parttime (10 hours/week, Monday-Friday) Finance Coordinator to our small but mighty staff. This is a flexible position that requires only 3 hours/week face-to-face at CLiF’s office in Waterbury Center, with the remainder available as offsite work.

Compensation: $20-22/hour to start, with paid holidays, vacation, and professional development

Interested applicants should send their resume/cover letter to laura@clifonline.org

CLiF is a nonprofit organization devoted to inspiring a love of reading and writing among under-resourced children up to age 12 in Vermont and New Hampshire. For more information, please see: clifonline.org/join-the-clif-team-2

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE VPQHC, Inc.

Are you passionate about working for a mission-driven organization? Do you like working with a great team, on meaningful projects, in a flexible and supportive environment? Are you a finance professional? This may be the role for you!

VPQHC is searching for a Director of Finance. Recently recognized as Vermont’s Community Star, VPQHC is on a mission to improve the quality of healthcare for Vermonters. Our team of passionate professionals works on a variety of exciting and meaningful projects throughout the state, region, and nationally. The Director of Finance is a full-time senior-level position, and will be an integral part of the team, managing the financial operations of the organization, and ensuring VPQHC’s financial health and sustainability. VPQHC is a Montpelier-based nonprofit; the position comes with excellent benefits, a flexible schedule, and hybrid/remote work options.

Learn more and apply: vpqhc.org/employment

Get a quote when posting online. Contact Michelle Brown at 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com

PCC is a 40-year-old, Vermont-owned and operated software and services company. We specialize in practice management and EHR software and related services for pediatricians. We are seeking a Systems Administrator, which supports 250+ pediatric practices nationwide.

This systems administration position works on a PCC team that focuses on maintaining our clients’ servers and network infrastructure. The position is integral to a dedicated, client-focused technical services team and requires technical expertise coupled with exceptional customer service and communication skills.

PCC offices are a casual, but professional work environment located in Winooski, Vermont. We offer a competitive salary and fantastic benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous paid time-off, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, a hybrid work environment, and numerous other perks.

Please visit pcc.com/careers for a full job description. To apply, email a cover letter and resume to jobs@ pcc.com with “Systems Administrator” in the subject line and tell us you saw our ad in Seven Days!

AA/EOE

You’re in good hands with...

“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

Now Hiring! LPNs, Med Techs, Resident Services Assistant

Brand new, state-of-the-art Residential Care program.

Clara’s Garden Memory Care is looking for caring staff to join our team. Our community is beautiful, peaceful, and purposefully designed for those living with memory loss.

Excellent work environment, competitive pay, great benefits!

LEARN MORE & APPLY

Solar Laborer

The Solar Laborer will perform many tasks requiring physical labor on construction sites in all types of weather. May operate hand & power tools: air hammers, earth tampers, cement mixers, concrete saws, surveying and measuring equipment, small equipment, and skid steer loaders. May clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, clear trees, build access roads, erect fencing, manage rubble and debris, and exfil as needed. Will assist other craft workers and take instructions. The Solar Laborer will assist the team when required. This position will learn their trade through on-the-job training. Teamwork & communication skills are highly prioritized in all aspects of this role.

REQUIRED: Minimum 1 year prior construction/installation experience. Legally permitted to work in the United States. Willing and able to pass a criminal background screening and pre-employment physical.

Starting Pay: $20/hr, Per Diem Rate $59-$110 Daily additional Apply via email with resume to hr@bullrockcorp.com

DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF

Home Base Inc is a small non-profit in Burlington, VT. We are supportive, fun, engaging and our goal is to provide residentially based support to developmentally disabled adults through education, guidance and direct care. The hope is for all our clients to achieve their desired level of independence in their communities.

Home Base Inc. is looking for one-on-one caregivers with adults with developmental disabilities in the Burlington area. Looking for patience, pleasant personality, teamwork, creativity and good communication skills. Weekday and weekend shifts available and no prior experience necessary - we will train you!

Mental Health Clinician ***

$2,000 Sign On Bonus***

Join Our Team as a Ch.O.I.C.E. Academy Mental Health Clinician! Empower Youth. Transform Lives. Make a Difference.

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of youth facing emotional and behavioral challenges? We are seeking a dedicated Mental Health Clinician/Case Manager to be a crucial part of our integrated mental health treatment facility and educational center at Ch.O.I.C.E. Academy.

Who We Are: Ch.O.I.C.E. Academy is a place where clinical excellence meets compassionate care. As a Mental Health Clinician, you'll provide vital clinical and case management services to youth in need, both within our facility and out in the community. Working closely with our school and families, you'll play a key role in helping our youth access appropriate support and services.

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy generous medical, dental, vision, life, and accident insurance coverage, with WCMHS covering 82.5% - 92% of premium costs.

• Investing in Your Future: Benefit from a matching 403(b) plan, starting at 4.25% and increasing based on years of service.

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy generous sick and vacation accruals, with 12 days of vacation and 12 days of sick time annually for full-time regular positions.

• Agency Closure Days: Get 12.5 paid agency closure days annually for that much-needed break.

Qualifications: To excel in this role, you should possess a master's degree in a human service field. Preferably, you'll be on a clinical or license track as a psychologist, social worker, or clinical mental health counselor. A valid driver's license, excellent driving record, and access to a safe, reliable, insured vehicle are essential for this position.

Note: De-escalation and physical intervention training will be provided as needed. Completion of comprehensive assessments is required. Apply online: wcmhs.applytojob.com/apply/NeQA2XkZPN/Clinician

In order to provide the best possible care for our clients, we are looking for compassionate and enthusiastic Direct Care Workers who enjoy working with adults with developmental disabilities. Duties include assisting clients with home, work, and community support, as well as ensuring that all clients' needs are met.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Hang out with some really cool people.

• On occasion prepare food, clean, and maintain living spaces OR help prompt and support client in completing these activities independently.

• Assist clients to successfully perform their work duties at their place of employment.

• On occasion (and if able) transport clients to and from appointments.

• Assume responsibility for drug dispensing and monitoring medications.

Please send resume and three references to: macy@homebasevt.org

Must complete a background check. Car not required.

Tourism Specialist

PART-TIME & PER-DIEM WORK

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY- $16.25/HR

The Williston and Georgia South I-89 Welcome Centers are looking to hire part-time and/or per diem employees with great customer service skills. Duties include custodial tasks and physical tasks including snow removal. Must be able to work weekends & some holidays.

To apply, please email welcomecenters@vermont.org or fill out an application at the Williston Welcome Centers.

2v-LakeChamplainChamber092023.indd 1 9/18/23 5:27 PM

HANDYMAN

Part time job with the following maintenance tasks for several apartment buildings:

• Interior/exterior carpentry

• Light plumbing work

• Light electrical work

• Carpet/Linoleum installations

Hours per week and schedule are flexible. Pay is negotiable based on experience.

Send inquiries to: lisamno@gmail.com or call Tom at 802-777-7374

2v-McHawkApartments092023.indd 1 9/18/23 12:55 PM

Customer Service & Administrative Assistant

Mad River Glen is seeking a Customer Service and Admin Assistant. The Customer Service & Admin Assistant is a key member of the office team who provides front line customer service and support for the main office and all points of sale across the ski area. This position will work closely with our guests, homeowners, shareholders and area personnel in a dynamic and fast paced environment. Candidates for the position should be detail oriented with excellent customer service skills. The employee is expected to work full time from August through April and have a flexible schedule. The work schedule will include weekends and holidays during the ski season. The Admin Assistant will receive competitive pay and a full benefits package.

If you are interested in joining the Mad River Glen team, have a passion for customer service and our unique ski area experience we would like to hear from you. Join the cooperative by applying today!

To apply please visit madriverglen.com/employment and fill out an application.

For more information, please contact Ticketing & Sales Manager Virginia Ferris at 802-496-3551 ext. 110 or Vee@madriverglen.com

Food & Beverage: Line Cook/Chef

General Stark’s Pub at Mad River Glen is looking for a year-round, part-time/full-time Line Cook/Chef with culinary experience and an understanding of ski area culture. The ideal candidate for this position will be able to prepare and cook pub menu items in a fast paced, high volume restaurant environment. We are looking for an individual who is team oriented and can be available to prepare the occasional banquet meal as well. Food ordering and inventory experience are a plus.

This is an hourly position that comes with an employee ski pass and other benefits at Mad River Glen. Winter hours and shifts may vary. Pay is based on experience with the opportunity to grow into an Executive Chef/Kitchen Manager role for the right candidate. Interested candidates please send a resume, cover letter, and 2 references to david@madriverglen.com or call 802-624-1882 for more information.

Cross Cultural Exchange Program Manager - For International NGO

PH International is seeking a full-time Program Manager for cross-cultural exchanges. The Program Manager will coordinate and travel on multiple reciprocal exchanges that promote mutual understanding and manage a small grants program to support innovative participant initiatives. The program will include both in-person and virtual exchange components that will engage youth influencers from around the world and the United States with a specific focus on the empowerment of women and those with disabilities. Diverse applicants, particularly those with lived experience in the program’s inclusion themes, are encouraged to apply. PH is an equal-opportunity employer.

PH International (Project Harmony, Inc.) is an international non-profit with over 35 years of experience focusing on civic engagement, cross-cultural learning, and increased opportunities in the digital age. The U.S. headquarters office is located in Waitsfield, VT with field offices in Armenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, the Republic of Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, and Ukraine with projects implemented in countries across the globe. FULL JOB DESCRIPTION & APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: ph-int.org/vacancies. Application deadline: September 23, 2023.

Daycare Lead Teacher

VIP's onsite daycare is seeking a qualified Daycare Lead Teacher to join our team of passionate child care providers. For 33 years the Roots Child Development Center has been nurturing infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in Colchester, VT. It is our mission to provide each child with a high quality, educational, play-based program that will foster their individual creativity and curiosity. We strive to create a safe and inclusive learning environment where everyone feels that their needs are valued and understood.

Roots is housed within the headquarters of Vermont Information Processing and is currently attended by 54 children of VIP employees. At VIP & Roots we prioritize a healthy work/life balance and are thoroughly invested in the health and wellbeing of our employees!

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop age-appropriate lessons and activities that promote and support the building of social skills, practical capabilities and self-esteem

• Collaborate with lead teachers to supervise, guide and encourage children’s learning and development

• Organize nap and snack hours and supervise children to ensure their safety at all times

• Communicate with parents regularly on their child’s day to day progress

• Maintain a clean and tidy classroom consistent with health and safety standards

Job Requirements:

• 1-2 years of relevant childcare experience (preferably with children under age 5)

• Associate’s Degree with a major in Early Childhood, Child or Human Development, Elementary Education or Child & Family Services, or 21 related college credits

• Our ideal candidate will be knowledgeable and experienced in the early childhood field as well as child-focused, creative, and compassionate!

Benefits:

• Quality, a ordable BlueCross BlueShield health insurance

• 3 weeks of paid vacation, 6 paid holidays, 4 paid floating holidays

• 6 weeks of paid maternity leave plus 2 weeks of paid parental leave

• Employer-funded retirement account

• Employer-funded health savings account and life insurance

• Short & Long term disability coverage

• Vision & Dental expense reimbursement

• Paid Professional Development training hours

• Onsite gym & heavily discounted membership to the Edge

• Onsite cafe serving breakfast, lunch & snacks

• Onsite health clinic for employees and their families

Apply here: public.vtinfo.com/careers or send an email expressing your interest to careers@vtinfo.com

ROAD CREW

Town of Panton

$25-$27/hour DOE.

Requires CDL, experience operating heavy equipment including plow and wing, mechanical ability, courtesy and diplomacy. Welding ability desired. See full job details: tinyurl.com/roadcrewjob

HRS – COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Burlington Housing Authority is expanding our team of professionals in the Housing Retention and Services department. We’re looking for a full time Housing Retention Specialist- Community Outreach. This full time position aids community members who are experiencing homelessness and need support navigating housing systems and locating and securing housing in the Chittenden County community. The Housing Retention Specialist – Community Outreach works collaboratively with community service agencies and providers in addition to Chittenden County Coordinated Entry, BHA Section 8, and Property Management.

This position works with the homeless community members to help with the application process, provides support to increase client’s awareness of resources, increase the overall resiliency, and promote stability and proactivity over crisis management. The Housing navigator provides direct retention services which may include home visits, supportive counseling, and coordinating services which may benefit the household.

An Associate’s degree required in human services or related field. Previous experience in direct service and advocacy preferred. Exhibits effective verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of the social services network is preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and internet navigation required. Excellent timemanagement skills and the ability to work independently are required.

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!

Our robust benefit package includes premium medical insurance with a health reimbursement account, dental, vision, short and long term disability, 10% employer funded retirement plan, 457 retirement plan, accident insurance, life insurance, cancer and 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, Burlington Housing Authority recognizes 13 (paid) holidays and 2 (paid) floating cultural holidays.

Interested in this career opportunity? Send a cover letter and resume to: humanresources@burlingtonhousing.org.

Human Resources

Burlington Housing Authority

65 Main Street, Suite 101

Burlington, VT 05401

burlingtonhousing.org

Burlington Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Prevent Child Abuse Vermont is hiring for the following grant-funded positions:

SAFE SLEEP INFANT/TODDLER TRAINER

Prevent Child Abuse Vermont is seeking a full time Safe Sleep Infant/Toddler Trainer. We’re looking for an experienced professional in social work or human services with excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work well with middle and high school students, early childhood caregivers, parents, medical professionals, human service providers and educators. Must be able to work flexible schedule which may include day, evening and occasional weekend presentations in person and virtually. Excellent organizational and computer skills necessary. Reliable transportation required.

PREVENTION EDUCATOR

Do you like working with adolescents and adults and feel passionate about protecting youth from human trafficking? PCAVT seeks prevention educator for grant funded statewide schoolbased anti-trafficking program. Candidate must have bachelor’s degree in related field, experience with 7th to 12th grade students, and reliable vehicle.

FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS COORDINATOR:

Prevent Child Abuse Vermont is seeking a Family Support Programs Coordinator to be part of a statewide team. Successful candidates will organize, oversee and facilitate online parent education and support groups. Groups may move to in-person meetings. The position may involve travel around the region. Duties include recruitment, training and supervision of volunteers and outreach and collaboration with community partners. Knowledge of child development and child abuse, love of parent education/support and experience with online facilitation are all a plus. Reliable transportation required. Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, education or related field required. These are currently grant funded positions.

*All employees receive health, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, family leave, yearly bonus, and retirement plan.

PCAVT does not discriminate in the delivery of services or benefits based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. E.O.E.

Please email cover letter, resume, and 3 references, along with the employment application to pcavt@pcavt.org.

Or mail to: Prevent Child Abuse Vermont - Search PO Box 829, Montpelier, VT 05601-0829

For application visit: pcavt.org/jobs-and-internships

Field Rep/Organizer

Join our team of organizers who are organizing healthcare and higher education professionals to protect and improve wages, benefits and working conditions in Vermont. The full job description can be found at vt.aft.org.

CONSERVATION PROGRAM ASSISTANT

Have administrative skills and experience? Join the State’s climate resiliency efforts to expand climate smart practices on Vermont’s farms and forests!

The Vermont Association of Conservation Districts (VACD) seeks qualified applicants for a full-time CONSERVATION PROGRAM ASSISTANT position. This position will be located at the St. Albans, VT Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Field Office and support the work of the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) and NRCS by providing administrative assistance to NRCS staff. The Program Assistant (PA) will work in conjunction with NRCS Field Office staff to implement USDA Farm Bill conservation programs and will be responsible for accurate documentation and tracking of applications, contracts, and financial records utilizing customized software while maintaining ongoing communications with customers.

Police Officer

The Richmond Police Department is currently accepting applications for a Full Time Police Officer. Our Department’s focus is a community based approach that encourages a collaborative effort utilizing a variety of services in problem solving. Richmond is a quiet suburb in Chittenden County, serving a population of 4,200 citizens.

The Richmond Police Department offers a competitive benefits package including take home cruiser in a 30 mile radius, Vermont Municipal Employees Retirement System Group D, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, medical, dental, and life insurance and upon completion of mandatory training. The starting salary is $29.59 per hour, as set forth in the NEPBA (New England Police Benevolence Association) contract. Lateral transfers are eligible to receive credit for experience.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED.

• Must have no felony or serious misdemeanor convictions, nor any habitual or serious traffic offenses, domestic violence or assault convictions. Other violations, which may adversely affect a law enforcement career, will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Vermont State driver’s license.

• Able to pass Vermont Police Academy entrance exam.

• Pass Vermont Police Academy Physical Fitness Exam

• Pass a polygraph and comprehensive background investigation.

Entrance requirements can be found and reviewed at vcjtc.vermont.gov/training/three/entrance-standards

Please submit resumes along with a letter of interest to: Town of Richmond

Attention: Town Manager Josh Arneson 203 Bridge Street, Richmond, VT 05477 Or email to: jarneson@richmondvt.gov

Excellent verbal, written, computer, and customer service skills required. Ideal candidate will have demonstrated administrative skills and experience supporting organizational operations, and will be well organized and able to work independently with accurate attention to detail. An Associate’s Degree is required. A Bachelor’s degree with an interest in conservation is preferred. Starting salary is $20.45 per hour and includes yearly salary advances, health benefits, an employer contribution 401K plan and a generous sick, holiday and vacation leave package.

GIS/UAV TECHNICIAN

Have a passion for digital map making and dream of piloting an UAV? Use that passion in service of the State’s efforts to develop and implement climate smart practices on Vermont’s farms and forests!

The Vermont Association of Conservation Districts (VACD) seeks qualified applicants for a full-time GIS/Aerial Unmanned Vehicle (UAV) Technician position. The GIS/UAV Technician’s Home Office will be at the NRCS State Office in Colchester. The GIS/UAV Technician will be part of a team responsible for coordinating VACD’s sUAV program while also supporting Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) GIS Specialist in providing state-wide GIS, cartographic and business and mobile tool technical assistance to the NRCS Resource Team as well as conservation planning field staff. There will be regular scheduled opportunities to Telework. The GIS/UAV Technician will have a working knowledge of natural resources, agriculture, or water quality, coursework and proficiency with ArcPro and cartographic imagery, the ability to work independently and be comfortable with field work on farms. Experience operating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles including RTK Quadcopters and an understanding of data retrieval and processing are preferred. Having or working towards a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification is desired. A Bachelor’s degree with an interest in conservation is required.

Starting salary is $20.45 per hour and includes yearly salary advances, health benefits, participation in an employer contribution 401K plan and a generous sick, holiday and vacation leave package.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTMYJOB

PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

Sustainability Program Coordinator For The Vermont RETAIN Grant

Haig Physical Medicine PLC seeks a full-time Sustainability Coordinator for our work with the State of Vermont’s federal RETAIN grant, with a task of helping build and sustain efforts that keep people at work despite medical and psychiatric disability. Over the next 1 ½ years we will build programs in areas of research, education, patient care, consulting, and advocacy.

This full-time job requires a minimum bachelor’s, preferred master’s degree in a related area. Important skills include organization, strategic planning, communication, marketing, computer and interpersonal relations. Much work can be done virtually but some travel to our Middlebury office and elsewhere will be required. Competitive salary and benefits.

Haig Physical Medicine PLC encourages applications across age, gender, race, culture and ability. Send cover letter and CV to andyhaig@umich.edu

First review deadline is October 15, 2023.

Accountant

We’re looking for someone to work directly with our clients and assist them with weekly and monthly bookkeeping and payroll needs, as well as preparing month-end accounting adjustments.

You will be responsible for:

• Following a schedule to meet Federal, State and client filing deadlines

• Advising clients on accounting actions

• Preparing financial statements to review with clients

• Responding to client requests in a timely manner

• Working within the firm to prepare workpapers and/or tax returns

Ideal candidate will have:

• A certificate in bookkeeping or degree in accounting

• Experience with QuickBooks and Microsoft Word/Excel

• An understanding of technology and awareness around cybersecurity

• Excellent communication skills – both verbal and written

• A desire to learn and grow with our firm

This is a part-time to full-time position depending on current skills and ability. We offer flexible hours, paid time off, paid vacation and contributions to a retirement plan.

Interested applicants should respond to:

802tax802tax802@gmail.com

GO HIRE.

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fun stuff

CALCOKU & SUDOKU (P.79) CROSSWORD (P.79)

JEN SORENSEN

HARRY BLISS

VIRGO

(AUG. 23-SEP. 22)

“These are the bad facts,” author Fran Lebowitz says. “Men have much easier lives than women. Men have the advantage. So do white people. So do rich people. So do beautiful people.” Do you agree, Virgo? I do. I’m not rich or beautiful, but I’m a white man, and I have received enormous advantages because of it. What about you? Now is a good time to tally any unearned blessings you have benefited from, give thanks for them and atone by offering help to people who have obtained fewer favors. And if you have not received many advantages, the coming months will be an excellent time to ask for and even demand more.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): So it begins: the Building and Nurturing Togetherness phase of your astrological cycle. The next eight weeks will bring excellent opportunities to shed bad relationship habits and grow good new ones. Let’s get you in the mood with some suggestions from intimacy counselors Mary D. Esselman and Elizabeth Ash Vélez: “No matter how long you’ve been together or how well you think you know each other, you still need to romance your partner, especially in stability. Don’t run off and get an extreme makeover or buy into the red-roses-and-champagne bit. Instead, try being kind, receptive, and respectful. Show your partner, often and in whatever

tender, goofy way you both understand, that their heart is your home.”

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): From May 2023 to May 2024, the planets Jupiter and Uranus have been and will be in Taurus. I suspect that many Taurus revolutionaries will be born during this time. And, yes, Tauruses can be revolutionaries. Here’s a list of some prominent rebel Bulls: Karl Marx, Malcolm X, activist Kathleen Cleaver, lesbian feminist author Adrienne Rich, Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh, artist Salvador Dali, playwright Lorraine Hansberry and dancer Martha Graham. All were wildly original innovators who left a bold mark on their cultures. May their examples inspire you to clarify and deepen the uniquely stirring impact you would like to make, Taurus.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): Gemini writer Joe Hill believes the only fight that matters is “the struggle to take the world’s chaos and make it mean something.” I can think of many other fights that matter, too, but Hill’s choice is a good one that can be both interesting and rewarding. I especially recommend it to you in the coming weeks, Gemini. You are poised at a threshold that promises substantial breakthroughs in your ongoing wrangles with confusion, ambiguity and enigma. My blessings go with you as you wade into the evocative challenges.

CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): Author Crescent Dragonwagon has written more than 50 books, so we might conclude that she has no problem expressing herself fully. But a character in one of her novels says the following: “I don’t know exactly what I mean by ‘hold something back,’ except that I do it. I don’t know what the ‘something’ is. It’s some part that’s a mystery, maybe even to me. I feel it may be my essence or what I am deep down under all the layers. But if I don’t know what it is, how can I give it or share it with someone even if I wanted to?” I bring these thoughts to your attention, Cancerian, because I believe the coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to overcome your own inclination to “hold something back.”

LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): In her book Undercurrents: A Life Beneath the Surface, psycholo-

gist and author Martha Manning says she is more likely to experience epiphanies in “grocery stores and laundromats, rather than in the more traditional places of reverence and prayer.” She marvels that “it’s in the most ordinary aspects of life” that she is “offered glimpses of the extraordinary.” During these breakthrough moments, “the baseline about what is good and important in my life changes.” I suspect that you will be in a similar groove during the coming weeks, Leo. Are you ready to find the sacred in the mundane? Are you willing to shed your expectations of how magic occurs so you will be receptive to it when it arrives unexpectedly?

LIBRA (Sep. 23-Oct. 22): My favorite creativity teacher is author Roger von Oech. He produced the Creative Whack Pack, a card deck with prompts to stimulate imaginative thinking. I decided to draw one such card for your use in the coming weeks. It’s titled EXAGGERATE. Here’s its advice: “Imagine a joke so funny you can’t stop laughing for a month. Paper stronger than steel. An apple the size of a hotel. A jet engine quieter than a moth beating its wings. A home-cooked dinner for 25,000 people. Try exaggerating your idea. What if it were a thousand times bigger, louder, stronger, faster, and brighter?” (PS: It’s a favorable time for you to entertain brainstorms and heartstorms and soulstorms. For best results, exaggerate!)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you buy a bag of popcorn and cook it in your microwave oven, there are usually kernels at the bottom that fail to pop. As tasty as your snack is, you may still feel cheated by the duds. I will be bold and predict that you won’t have to deal with such duds in the near future — not in your popcorn bags and not in any other area of your life, either literally or metaphorically. You’re due for a series of experiences that are complete and thorough and fully bloomed.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Writer George Bernard Shaw observed that new ideas and novel perspectives “often appear first as jokes and fancies, then as blasphemies and treason, then as questions open to discussion, and finally as established truths.”

As you strive to get people to consider fresh approaches, Sagittarius, I advise you to skip the “blasphemies and treason” stage. If you proceed with compassion and good humor, you can go directly from “jokes and fancies” to “questions open to discussion.” But one way or another, please be a leader who initiates shifts in your favorite groups and organizations. Shake things up with panache and good humor.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Novelist and astrologer Forrest E. Fickling researched which signs are the worst and best in various activities. He discovered that Capricorns are the hardest workers and the most efficient. They get a lot done, and they are expeditious about it. I suspect that you will be at the peak of your ability to express these Capricornian strengths in the coming weeks. Here’s a bonus: You will also be at the height of your power to enjoy your work and be extra likely to produce good work. Take maximum advantage of this grace period!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The British band Oasis has sold over 95 million records. The first song they ever released was “Supersonic.” Guitarist Noel Gallagher wrote most of its music and lyrics in half an hour while the rest of the band was eating Chinese takeout food. I suspect you will have that kind of agile, succinct, matter-of-fact creativity in the coming days. If you are wise, you will channel it into dreaming up solutions for two of your current dilemmas. This is one time when life should be easier and more efficient than usual.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): “When sex is really, really good,” Piscean novelist Geoff Nicholson writes, “I feel as though I’m disappearing, being pulverized, so that I’m nothing, just particles of debris, smog, soot, and skin floating through the air.” Hmmmm. I guess that’s one version of wonderful sex. And if you want it, you can have it in abundance during the coming weeks. But I encourage you to explore other kinds of wonderful sex, as well — such as the kind that makes you feel like a genius animal or a gorgeous storm or a superpowered deity.

supported by:

Angus Montgomery, 20, started delivering mail to the City-5 route in Montpelier on September 2. He took over the route from his dad, Craig, who inherited it from his father, Dave. And Dave followed in the footsteps of his pa, Harold. Eva headed to Montpelier recently for the story of four generations of mail-delivering Montgomerys.

Eva Sollberger’s

WOMEN seeking...

LAID-BACK, OLD-SCHOOL

I am a loving, caring, honest and dependable woman. I care about family and old and new friends. I would do what I can to help others. I believe in God. Looking for someone of the same, plus kind and gentle, to be someone my family would also like. sunshineCarol 75 seeking: M, l

HONEST, KIND, FUNNY, ADVENTUROUS, CURIOUS

I’m comfortable being on my own but want to share adventures and experiences with that special someone. I love to hear people’s stories; I’ve been told I’m a good listener. I’m looking for someone who is kind, likes to laugh and loves experiencing new things; ideally starting off as a friendship that grows to a deeper and more caring relationship.

Friendlysoul 67 seeking: M, l

CLASSICAL MUSIC/ATHLETE

Mellow, low maintenance, self-sufficient. Love sunshine and warmth. Enjoy reading, walking, sailing, kayaking, swimming. (Gold medalist in Vermont and Tucson Senior Games.) Like to watch Netflix and PBS “Masterpiece” mysteries. My family and friends are tops with me. Thrifting is fun. Museums and history. Recumbent around BTV nowadays. Wish for a kind, cultured, good-humored man. Choralmusic83, 83, seeking: M, l

LIFE IS GOOD

Nice lady seeking wonderful guy. CookiesandCream, 65 seeking: M, l

WANT TO RESPOND?

You read Seven Days, these people read Seven Days — you already have at least one thing in common!

All the action is online. Create an account or login to browse hundreds of singles with profiles including photos, habits, desires, views and more. It’s free to place your own profile online.

l See photos of this person online.

W = Women

M = Men

TW = Trans women

TM = Trans men

Q = Genderqueer people

NBP = Nonbinary people

NC = Gender nonconformists

Cp = Couples

Gp = Groups

LIVING LIFE NOW

I am looking forward to seeing someone who is willing to explore life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Mature adult dude with laughter and excitement.

GypsyPoppins 66 seeking: M, l

LOVE AND COMPASSION FOR ALL

I am very active and young for my age. You’ll usually find me outdoors, in my flower garden or with my horse. Lived in Essex for many years before moving to Utah in 2008. Retired now but work temporary jobs and in stables where I am usually with my horse. Have a dachshund and cat. Have always loved Vermont. equus 72, seeking: M, l

OPTIMISTIC, DRIVEN, BUBBLY BABE

Smiles, affectionate, hardworking, passionate, emotionally intelligent. Wants to find the love of her life. You: good head on your shoulders, know what you want, motivated, emotionally intelligent and want a future with a really cute girl with a pretty smile. An affinity for old farmhouses will get you extra brownie points! Battlebeautyfarmhouse

33, seeking: M, l

ADVENTUROUS, ENJOY LIFE, SUNSHINE

I am energetic, love to try new things, adventures, short trips. I have a cat for company, live simply, low maintenance, bilingual. Seeking someone who likes to explore Vermont, Québec. A great cook would be a plus. Funny, good conversationalist, conservative in politics, but I will respect your political choices, a bit old school, a gentleman. Luvtosmile, 78, seeking: M

WIDOW STARTING OVER

I’ve been working for the same health care provider for over 40 years and plan to retire in the next 18 months. I own my home and have worked since 16, so no “gold digger” here. I’m 5’6, some “love handles,” hazel/blue eyes and short medium brown hair with highlights. I love going to Maine on weekend getaways. Here’s to our next adventure! LilyMae23 63, seeking: M, l

CRUNCHY, BISEXUAL

Funny, open-minded, worldly, direct woman looking for a woman to hang out with, friends with benefits, hook up. Highly sexual and looking for same in a woman. No couples, no men. JATCASUAL, 41 seeking: W

QUIRKY HOMESTEADIN’ SWAMP HAG

Just your run-of-the-mill hermitess growing and cooking loads of food.

I’m a cynical leftist who loves the Earth and all the critters. I’d love to meet someone with similar ideals and goals to join me on the homestead.

I’m goofy, serious, quiet and loud. I have a yarn and seed addiction. Let’s go for a walk! VTHomesteader, 42 seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l

SUNSHINE AND WANDERLUST

Seeking fun-loving, easygoing people for friendship and maybe more. Wonderful weather these days. Who’s up for enjoying it? CarolinaGirl, 36 seeking: M, TM, Q, NC, NBP, l

SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL

Fierce femme with a tender heart seeks someone sweet as baklava whose eyes I can fall into. Interests include doubleshot espresso, watching the rain fall from my front porch and discovering beauty in all forms. Must have curiosity, a heart of gold and be willing to shower me in adoration. tamaracktrees, 24, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP

NOT DEAD YET

I considered myself a high-heels, makeup-at-all-times city girl until I moved to Vermont 12 years ago. I never even owned a car, and all my Boston/New York friends wondered how I would survive. Well, not only did I survive, but I learned how to fish in a lake year-round and even how to shoot a gun. CLC, 77, seeking: M, l

ACTIVE WATER AND MOUNTAIN PERSON

Do you ever not want to go alone? Traveling is something I want to do with someone. I go to music events and theater in Vermont and beyond. I love to dance. I don’t mind my alone time at home. I’ve been single for 15 years. Hopefully you are fun, happy, active and loving. Time4Me2, 65 seeking: M, l

BRIGHT, INQUISITIVE ADVENTURER

Life is an adventure that is constantly throwing twists and turns that must be navigated with agility, flexibility and humor. I’m looking for a man who wants to join me in the adventure. Avid gardener, cook, hike, bike, scuba, rock climb. Lots of interests and willing to try new things, too. Let’s get out and play. More fun/laughter. MIDWESTGRL, 67, seeking: M, l

MEN seeking...

FRANKLIN COUNTY

Hi. 52, single, open-minded, hosting top bottom. Looking for whatever comes my way. Looking for real friends. Single, gay, love all ages. SingleVtguy, 52, seeking: M, TM, TW, Q, l

MELLOW, SPIRITUAL FOCUS “Be here now.” “In the world but not of the world.” Love is all that matters. Always searching to improve that focus and honesty. Tantric love included. aroscan, 73, seeking: W, l

NOTHING TO SEE HERE

I’m just a down-to-earth, grounded man seeking a funny, mature, honest, goal-oriented, adventurous travel partner, who is seeking the same. Life is too short, and time is of the essence. What do you say we savor the moment with handheld strolls, dinners, music and meaningful times together?

RickFreeze 57, seeking: W, l

HANDSOME AND CHARMING

Would rather share who I am face-toface! TimeAfterTime 62, seeking: W

OPEN, HONEST

I am honest, open and happy to answer questions. I want to have conversations and form connections. falcon, 76 seeking: W

53-Y/O SINGLE PROFESSIONAL MALE

I’m a 53-y/o professional white male looking to start a serious relationship with the right woman. I enjoy kayaking, hiking, running, working out, music, science and history. I also enjoy mountain biking, dining out, shopping and having long, stimulating conversations.

Cheeselove1979 53 seeking: W, l

POET SEEKING INTELLECTUAL FRIENDS, BOYFRIEND

I’m a poet and intellectual seeking friends to discuss poetry with. I am open to adults of any age and gender, but they must be comfortable with online communication via email or social media sites. Additional topics of conversation can be cinema, art, history, music, novels, science, handcrafts and D&D. I’m not interested in video gaming or TV shows. sea2sea, 30, seeking: M, l

HEALTHY OUTDOOR LOVER

Lived in Europe and the D.C. area most of my life before retiring in Vermont, where I built my dream house for two. Bike toured in Europe, Canada and the Northeast. Enjoy day hikes and cross-country skiing. Love my garden and other people’s pets. Enjoy cooking, eating well and having pleasant, faceto-face, meaningful conversations. lovegaia 82, seeking: W, l

FUNNY FACE

They say there’s a man for every woman and a woman for every man. Another is: Only a mother could love this face. I enjoy humor, although mine is rather dry. Seeking a fishing partner, one who is happy, financially secure, adventurous, kind and honest. FunnyFace, 74, seeking: W, l

SIMPLE, DOWN-TO-EARTH ROCKER

We are a man and his dog. Must take the pair and not just the black furry one. I work out three times a week, love live music, festivals, road trips, lots of cuddling. Very touchy-feely. I would like a beautiful soul and amazing chemistry. How about you?

AdudeinVT 56, seeking: W, l

TALKATIVE AND ADVENTUROUS

Looking for conversation and companionship and someone to share travel adventures. Was a high school history teacher. Now work on oil paintings and as a woodshop teacher at camp. Love all things physical — hiking, running, biking, swimming, etc. Also an avid reader of books, fiction and nonfiction, which make for wonderful talks. Two kids in college currently. EightBells38 68 seeking: W, l

LAID-BACK, EASYGOING, HARDWORKING

Honest, hardworking, trustworthy man. I like laughing, having a good time and making memories. Looking for the same with a strong sex drive and an open mind.

I’m not looking to change you; I just want to enhance our lives. I love to spoil my partner. Just ask for a picture. I’m a middle-aged handsome man who works a lot. HappyGoLucky72, 51, seeking: W, l

WANDERING SOUL, DAD, SILENT, MINDFUL

Let’s just get together IRL and see what happens. supernovaender 42, seeking: W, l

OUTDOORSY AND SOCIAL

New to Vermont from Colorado. I would consider myself a mountain person who loves spending time with someone in the mountains and ski resorts or any sort. Apart from outdoor things, karaoke is also my thing, and I can sing ’til my Adam’s apple dries out. Looking for someone who can share fun moments together.

MountainKnight12, 27, seeking: W, Cp

CARING, GIVING, KNOWLEDGEABLE, QUIET, DETAILED

I’m looking to date and have fun with a woman and am hoping that it would lead to a long-term relationship.

I am young at heart and don’t like a lot of rules. Don’t like acting old. Looking for a woman who is a bit quirky, spicy and wears unique jewelry. Make_It_Happen, 65, seeking: W, l

TRANS WOMEN seeking...

HONESTY, COMMON SENSE A MUST 53-y/o single trans woman. Have a few pounds around the center. LOL. I’m finally ready to meet someone who will not be embarrassed to be seen in public with me. Love to get dolled up for someone. I’m easygoing. My ideal person would be female. Interesting to kinky. Do you think you could be my dominant other? Shygurl 53, seeking: TW, l RECENTLY RELOCATED, ADVENTUROUS, FREE SPIRIT

I’m a gorgeous, white, 100 percent passable trans lady who is 57 and could pass as 30 — yes, 30! I long for love, laughter and romance, along with loving nature. I want a man who’s all man, rugged, handsome, well built but prefers a woman like myself. It’s as simple as that. We meet, fall in love and live happily ever after. Sammijo 58 seeking: M, l

FABULOUSLY FUTCH

Tall, smart trans woman looking for my people. I live in Middlebury. Any background in punk or politics is a plus — let’s make some noise! sashamarx, 53, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, Cp, l

T GIRL LIVE IN VT

I’m a feminine trans woman with a good sense of humor. I want a special someone. I like dinner and a movie or a baseball game, riding the bike path and seeing shows at Higher Ground. I love my record collection and taking care of my house. I’m looking for some companionship and love, building a good relationship. Luv2BaGurl 63 seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l

COUPLES seeking...

COUPLE LOOKING FOR FUN

We are a married couple looking for another couple or female for sexual encounters. We are clean and discreet. Would love to chat to see if we are compatible — he is muscular and 5’11; she is curvy and 5’0. New to this lifestyle. Incognito1984, 38, seeking: W, Cp

SNOW AND SUN EQUAL FUN Borders and boundaries are sexy. We’re pretty cute. We like to have fun, and we bet you do, too. Happily married couple (W, 35; M, 45), open-minded and looking to explore. Love playing outdoors. Looking to meet a couple, man or woman for fun and adventure. Ideal meetup is a cottage in the mountains with great food and lots of great wine. SnownSun 46, seeking: Cp, l

LOOKING FOR OUR MAN!

Ideally hoping for a throuple/FWB situation. Us: established M/F couple. DD-free. (She: 44, straight BBW; he: 46, bi MWM). Drinks, 420-friendly, fires, get outside, music, Netflix and chill, always horny. You: DD-free, clean, masculine bi male (30ish to 50ish) who works and knows how to enjoy life! A little rough/hard (top, real man, etc.) with a compassionate heart and a bit of a snuggler. Connection is key. Let’s chat and get to know each other, then play! ginganddaddy 47, seeking: M

YIf you’ve been spied, go online to contact your admirer!

dating.sevendaysvt.com

ROCKFIRE FIREWALK

I was walking in front of you. I stopped at the exit, and our eyes met. You were talking about Halloween jacko’-lantern displays with your mom(?). ere’s a great one in Jericho, and I’d love to take you. When: Saturday, September 16, 2023. Where: Rockfire. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915849

POEM BOY ON WILLARD ST.

You: pushing a bike, glasses, blondish, work in city design/planning. Me: also blondish, pink dress. We talked about the bike lane and grad school. You brought up Wendell Berry, the writer. How often does someone quote your favorite poet to you on the street? I thought you were rare and beautiful. You should buy me a drink. When: Sunday, October 29, 2023. Where: South Willard St. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915848

BIKE PATH DOG PASSING

We passed each other on the bike path by the dog park. I gave your dog a treat, and you dropped the leash a few times. I was wearing a green hat. You had on a crop top. I couldn’t stop talking about how I should have asked for your number to my friend who I was with. When: Sunday, September 17, 2023. Where: Burlington bike path. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915847

COLCHESTER MOTORCYCLE BRS, DREAM RIDE?

DMV basic motorcycle safety weekend class. You asked me about my “dream ride.” I said I wasn’t sure, maybe a Triumph. I’ve learned more, have a better answer. Would love to chat bikes, have coffee, go for a ride. I was surprised by my perfect score on the skills test. You had an intense gaze I can’t quite forget. When: Sunday, September 10, 2023. Where: Colchester DMV.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915844

BELVIDERE, PINK TALKING PHISH, 9/16

You glided up and asked about the munchies at the show. I just spent my last $20. Wish I could have bought you a plate. It was too quick, and I forgot your name. A quick glimmer of light is better than nothing at all. When: Saturday, September 16, 2023. Where: Belvidere.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915846

TIN QUEEN IN CENTRAL VERMONT

Hi, Tin Queen! You are very, very pretty! I want that date! Dreaming about garlic, mermaids, ants ... Can I be your Iceman? Hope you read this!

When: ursday, September 14, 2023. Where: 10 miles from Montpelier.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915845

HEY NOW, KCK MATCH

You and I would get along swimmingly. Sporty: check. Grateful Dead: check. Travel: check. Looking for an LTE: check. And many more. When: ursday, September 14, 2023. Where: match.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915843

OLIVE GREEN TRIVIA GODDESS

You were the olive green goddess with straight dark hair at Tuesday night trivia. I wore the coral polo at the table between yours and the bar. We exchanged glances numerous times, but you vanished before the night was over. Where did you go? When: Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Where: Burger Bar. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915842

ICE CREAM AISLE AT HANNAFORD

We chatted briefly while looking for ice cream, but sadly our go-to flavors were out of stock. I wish I had asked for your number, but I missed the chance. Maybe we could get together sometime? Cherry Garcia’s on me! When: Friday, September 8, 2023. Where: North Ave. Hannaford.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915841

REVEREND Ask

Irreverent counsel

De

Rev end,

My partner and I moved in together earlier this year. Everything has been great, except for one thing. Sometimes when I’m showering in the morning, they come into the bathroom and poop (in the toilet, not the shower, just to be clear). I feel like it shouldn’t bother me, but it does. I haven’t said anything yet because I don’t want to make it a big deal. What do I do?

Emma Steam

(WOMAN, 24)

MY CAMERADO

I saw you across the room in the upstairs theater lobby. You: dark hair, in jeans and a white button-down shirt. I wore a beret. Our eyes met, and you smiled. Forty years flashed by, and I am glad for every minute and for all those to come. I’d like to travel with you still. When: Saturday, September 2, 2023. Where: UVM theater. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915840

MILTON DINER

You weren’t our assigned waitress, but we did exchange a quick laugh. I am sure you are taken but wanted to mention what an amazing smile you have. Melted me immediately. You: working. Me: with my elderly parents having breakfast. Was hoping to see you again before we left, but the sounds of broken dishes probably kept you busy. When: Sunday, September 10, 2023. Where: Milton Diner. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915839

THANK YOU SO MUCH!

I spy beautiful people on Shelburne Road while I was at work. I was a bit in shock. Mac, the trained EMT with red hair. Melissa? Christine? I’m sorry, I’m getting your name wrong. Great people in line, the SBVT EMTs. anks for helping me out. I’m going to be OK, and I want to extend my thanks for caring. When: Wednesday, September 6, 2023. Where: work. You: Group. Me: Woman. #915838

CAR TROUBLES? WILLISTON GAS STATION

You drove into the gas station. Your vehicle was making a grinding noise. When you came out, I mentioned that your wheel bearing was noisy. You had to get to Barre and asked if it would be safe to drive. I hope you get it fixed soon! Seemed like a very sweet person. Hit me up sometime. I’d like to chat again! When: Tuesday, September 5, 2023. Where: Williston gas station. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915837

MUTTS ARE THE BEST

To the tattooed woman who took the time to give Miss Tulip some love: In the moment, I resisted the urge to state the obvious, but I just can’t keep it bottled up any longer ... You are beautiful! ( ere, it’s out. I feel better now.) P.S. I hope your life is blessed with many more magical mutts. When: Sunday, September 3, 2023. Where: Gardener’s Supply, Williston. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915836

De Emma Steam,

IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME

You were in a smokin’ black dress! You were leaving with a tall bald guy. I walked up to him (you’re leaving with the most beautiful girl!). You were flattered, I believe. Need to meet you again. If you are one of her friends reading, please tell her to answer this post. #iscrewedup When: Friday, September 1, 2023. Where: the Old Post. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915835

STUNNING BLONDE

ree Brothers around 1:15 p.m. You: stunning blonde driving the Audi. Me: the guy with no game eating pizza in the corner. I am sure you are taken, but I could feel your radiance. Would love to have a coffee and chat. When: ursday, August 31, 2023. Where: Colchester.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915834

YOU HAD ME AT SUBLIME

I was grabbing some coffee that night. You said, “Nice shirt, miss.” We chatted about seeing Badfish live. You saw them the other week. We spotted each other once more. I should have grabbed your number! You were wearing a hat and brown shirt and had gorgeous blue eyes. Let’s go to a concert together? When: Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Where: Shaw’s, Randolph. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915833

BEAUTIFUL SMILE

You held the door for me. You were with your daughter, I believe. Even though I wanted you to enter first, you insisted. You said “Have a nice day” when I walked by. I was drawn to your smile, someone with a kind heart. Someone I would really like to get to know. When: Saturday, August 5, 2023. Where: Jiffy, Hinesburg.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915832

BERLIN PRICE CHOPPER BLONDE

You: gorgeous blonde, tan skirt with green and pink stripes. Me: guy in a red T-shirt and baseball hat. We passed each other, made eye contact and smiled. I wish I had stopped and said hi, but you were a woman on a mission. Coffee sometime? When: Sunday, August 27, 2023. Where: Berlin Price Chopper. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915831

WE ALMOST COLLIDED

We almost collided with our shopping carts. Sorry, not sorry! Your smile was amazing! I wish we had made more of a connection. You: silver-haired male. Me: curly hair, Wolfsgart tank. When: Sunday, August 20, 2023. Where: Milton Hannaford. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915826

Everyone poops, and everyone has their particular poop style. Personally, I am a Private Pooper: I don’t like taking care of business with someone else in the vicinity unless it’s an absolute emergency.

Kudos to your partner for feeling so free. However, another thing everyone has is boundaries, and yours are inadvertently being crossed.

You could lock the bathroom door, but that’s a little passive-aggressive. If you want to avoid making a big stink about the situation, you could adjust your shower schedule to avoid their “go time.” Or give a little advance notice before you bathe by asking, “Do you need to use the bathroom before I shower?”

RE: LOOKINGFORONLYYOU

ey say, “Don’t take the risk, you’re sure to fail. ere’s no ‘get out of jail free’ card in life.” But what’s the worst that could happen, end up in a coffin? Isn’t that where we’re all headed anyway? Can’t escape the madness, so you might as well embrace it. Can’t be worse than a nineto-five cubicle jail cell. When: ursday, February 23, 2023. Where: on the run, sin amor. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915829

TO MY MAINTENANCE MAN

I know that you’ve had a lot on your plate recently. And things haven’t been easy. I just wanted to let you know I’m proud of you, and no matter what, I have your back. I love you. I wouldn’t want to go through the rest of this life with anyone but you. When: Friday, November 11, 2022. Where: in my future.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915828

COLCHESTER SHAW’S

We crossed paths, once when I was walking toward the refrigerated pasta section and the other moment we were at adjacent checkouts. I think we exchanged smiles, but maybe it was in my head? Dark blonde here, tattooed. You had dark hair, glasses and a salmoncolored shirt, I think. When: Tuesday, August 22, 2023. Where: Shaw’s. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915827

CAMEL’S HUMP DOG DAD

To the dog dad hiking in the rain: I was running/hiking and crossed paths with you guys on the last section of the trail before the summit. You said, “Not a good day to hang out up here.” I hoped I’d catch you on the way down, but sadly I did not.

Would love to connect! When: Saturday, August 19, 2023. Where: Camel’s Hump.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915825

ENCHANTING IN OVERALLS, FOX MARKET

I was sitting at the downstairs table with a friend when you walked in on a rainy Saturday. We held eye contact and smiled. I felt a spark. Did you?

When: Saturday, August 19, 2023. Where: Fox Market, East Montpelier. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915824

TALL SHELBURNE BLONDE

We crossed paths twice. You were wearing leggings and dark-rimmed glasses! Are you around and available?

When: ursday, August 10, 2023. Where: Kinney Drugs, Shelburne Rd. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915822

If picking up on subtle cues is not your partner’s forte, cut the crap and be straight with them. You could say you like to start your day with a refreshing shower, and having a deuce drop on the other side of the curtain kinda wrecks it for you. Talking about poop can be pretty funny; if you approach this matter with a little humor, I don’t think any feelings will be hurt.

I hate to break it to you, but this is a sure sign that the honeymoon is over. After you live with someone for a while, the veil is lifted and you see them as they really are — warts and all. at’s when the real magic happens, so congratulations!

Good luck and God bless, The Rev end

Send

on life’s conundrums

I’m a 72 y/o M who admires very mature women. I find myself sexually attracted to these ladies of distinction. I would love to meet one in her upper 70s or 80s. #L1696

I’m a 73-y/o woman seeking a man, 68 to 78. I am a Christian woman (look younger than I am) wanting a male companion to just live life with. Conversation, movies, dinners in or out. Someone to enjoy life with again. #L1695

GM bottom looking for playmates. Age and race not important. Just fun, hot sex without strings. Also interested in three-way. Rutland County. Call/text. #L1694

I’m a very unique lady who’s seeking a gentleman. Very passionate, honest, loyal, humble. I love to garden, read, listen to music and watch a good movie. Love to walk in the beautiful nature and earth, as well. Hoping to meet a man with the same likes. #L1693

Need an heir? Too busy on that career? Let’s meet on that. #L1684

I’m a 79-y/o woman seeking a man, 70-plus y/o. Want companionship as well as a friend. Willing to stay home or travel — whichever you want to. Want to help anyone who needs it. #L1691

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PUBLISH YOUR

Handsome straight man wanting an erotic exchange with another handsome straight man, but only in a full threesome with your wife, fiancée or girlfriend. #L1692

Gracious, faithful, educated, humorous soul seeks a fit, tender and natural female counterpart (55 to 65) to bask in autumn splendor. Let’s hike, bike, frolic, listen, ponder and share! I’m a worthy companion. #L1690

Dragonfly, hummingbird / warm winds, butterfly, / sun in bright sky, sun inside, / Iris, tigerlily, / Bright flowers in summer sun, / Dreams that fly, Come back in spring, / Lalee, lalee, lalee, liii. / Grown up boy for similar girl. #L1686

58-y/o SW. Humbled, thoughtful. Hoping for a safe, kind, honest relationship with a man. Calm in nature, love for nature. Morning coffees, long walks, talks, sunsets, art, music, dance, friends, family, laughs! Willing to see and resolve suffering. Unconditional love and support find me at home. Phone number, please. #L1680

Man, early 70s. Still grieving from two-plus years ago, but moving on. Funny, engaging, storyteller, listener. Interesting life (so far!). Greater MontpelierBarre area. Looking for a woman friend: have fun, eat out, do stuff. Maybe more, but maybe not. Companionship. #L1687

Int net-Free Dating!

I’m a SWM, 38, attractive, pierced nipples, friendly tattoos, purple and blue hair and goatee. No booze, no drugs. Looking for a kindred spirit, female, 18 to 58. #L1685

I’m a working man, 33, seeking a working woman, 25 to 33, to get to know and possibly build a life together. Born in Vermont to European family. Nonsmoking; no drugs. #L1683

I’m an older guy with a high libido looking to meet a woman with similar interests to hopefully develop a LTR. My interests are country living, travel, humanpowered sports, music, art, gardening, etc. I’m secure and happy; very fit and healthy; a financially secure large-property owner; a curious, free-spirited adventurer; a singer and musician; a connoisseur of peace and quiet. 420-cool, friendly, compassionate, experienced and well endowed. You are your own beautiful self with a lust for life. Willing to travel for the right gal. Ability to sing, slender and body hair a plus. #LL1677

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)

I’m a man, 72, seeking a woman, 45 to 70. Looking for a friend to go to dinner, movie, walking. I am fit for my age and seek the same in a woman. Phone number, please. #L1681

I’m a man seeking a woman. Very passionate, sexual and loyal man. Honest, loving, treat-youlike-a-lady guy seeking special woman, 35 to 60ish. No drugs or drunks. Must be honest and supportive emotionally. #LL1678

Seeking kinky individuals. Deviant desires? Yes, please! Only raunchiness needed. Have perverted tales? Hot confessions? Anything goes! No judgment. I only want your forbidden fantasies. Openminded. I dare you to shock me. Replies upon request. #LL1676

Sensual older couple enjoying life. Snowbirds (Florida), well-traveled, fit and fun. Seeking to meet others curious about alternative modes of sexuality. Meet up in BTV for a glass of wine and chat? #LL1670

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